you have got to be kidding me...

Simply beautiful

2011-11-15T17:50:00.001+08:00

OMG seriously.

p/s: in case you haven't noticed, I've got this thing for mermaid dresses. I think it's because I don't have the body for it... hahaha

Same same different

2011-11-09T17:00:00.000+08:00

I had lunch with my school mates today and within the first five minutes of the conversation I realized how I didn't share the same thoughts, ideas and character.

For instance, both of them claim to have some sort of female problems where it makes then hormonally imbalanced. Since I'm quite alright when it comes to that time of the month, I asked what happens when they're hormonally imbalanced...

They in turn looked at me seriously and rattled on about the typical hormonal symptoms of a woman going thru her menstrual cycle. But the way they were talking about it, the expressions, the earnesty in their voices... I couldn't tell if they were misinformed or if they really were going through some hormonal trouble.

Then one of them started to tell us about how she met her new boyfriend. She said she was skeptical at first, so we asked her why? Regular question, no?

"Because I didn't want to date a whitey,"

I stared at her.

Our other friend nodded sympathetically.

So I asked gently (seeing that this seemed a bit of a sensitive thing to her) "Why don't you want to date a Caucasian?"

"Oh there are just too many differences. We don't speak the same language, we don't share the same culture... It's just different. It's just a lot of work. You wouldn't know..."

This is a woman who is one day older than me and we've been friends since primary school. Yet she didn't seem to know that I dated an American for seven years.

"Oh.... So you've always wanted to settle down with a nice Chinese man?" I asked.

She nodded. Apparently it took the poor dude about two months of courtship to convince her that it's okay to date a white guy. Hats off to you, mate!

I kept quiet while the two of them rambled on about how cultural differences can create strains on a relationship and a few other trivial things.

I must say I was quite taken back by that two hours I spent with them.

I thought we lived in a glocal (portmanteau: global + local) world that every one of us were educated (one has a Masters Degree, works with a major oil company and earns a five-figure salary while the other has two degrees).

A world where every one of us had access to plenty of information.

A world where every one of us was aware and embraced the many colors of different cultures.

Unfortunately I was proven very wrong by people close to me.

I need to do a re-check.

Dream wedding

2011-10-26T09:51:00.001+08:00

No it's not what you're thinking...

I dreamt last night about an impromptu wedding. It was all very sudden - for me but for everyone else it wasn't.

He showed me this dress and asked me to put it on. It was one of those British India kinda clothes. It was part of a set because then I noticed that he was wearing a similar outfit too.

Then after a bit everyone was ushering me to go get ready. 'It starts at 7 and you've only got 30 mins to spare!! M someone called out.

I rush to grab my dress, make up, perfume and ran out the door.

Then I realized - I have no make up artist, no photographer, no bridesmaids or maid of honor and probably no ring (I don't remember buying any).

As I sat there wondering, my alarm woke me up and damnit it's a frickin public holiday today and instead of sleeping in, I'm up by 8!

P/s: this is not the first time I've dreamt of a wedding like his. Weird eh?

How far will you go...?

2011-10-18T17:52:00.000+08:00

Earlier I had complained to the pup that I had to write an advertorial for a client.

FYI advertorial = advertisement + editorial (meaning it's a paid written piece and not a paid space like an advertisement).

Now with my job, I get a lot of advertorials to write and create, and don't get me wrong but most of them are pretty fun and challenging. I get to do some about cars, paint, toothpaste and the list goes on. The fun part is that you actually get to convey a lot more information than an advertisement to people. The scary part is, depending on which magazine it is, there is a certain percentage of people who ACTUALLY trust these advertorials.

Unfortunately, I was handed one that pretty much went against my principles of how children should be brought up on.

I admit, I'm not a mother. I have no children, but I already know what rules my future children will have to abide to when it comes to respect, food and play. I have many nieces and nephews and I love them to bits, but I do disagree with some ways that my cousins bring them up.

Anyways, back to my case - I had to write an advertorial for a fast food place who wants to encourage mothers and families to bring their children over for a meal because they use 100% quality ingredients.

A key word I had to MAKE SURE never appeared in the advertorial - "healthy". I could

It really really bugged the crap out of me and it was one of my most challenging jobs ever because it was so hard to bring myself to actually write something convincing when I am totally against it.

It's like I'm telling people jumping off a building is fun.

Writing that piece really made me question my principles and ethics in writing...

Then it hit me... how far would you go, ethically in your work.

Sadly I went ahead because at the end of the day it's a job and I need my job. But I do cringe every time I see it...

Let it be, let it be, let it be...

2011-10-05T21:19:00.000+08:00

I have this bad habit... of letting things fester... of putting others before myself.

And then I get pissed about it.

But I don't say anything and let the feeling pass.

Why?

Well, ~~sometimes~~ most times I feel that there's no point getting all worked up about stuff like these.

I'll get pissed. I'll say things I don't mean. I'll become this really angry little monster, which I don't enjoy... and for what?

Just to blow off a little steam?

Nah...

Earlier today, everything was pissing me off, up to a point where I just didn't want to look at anything.

So at the dinner table, I took my glasses off and just closed my eyes.

The pup asked "Are you ok?"

I gave the universal answer for 'leave me alone' "Yeah I'm fine, it's nothing."

He pressed on for a bit and it got to a point where I almost screamed at him and then he shut up.

What was I so pissed off about?

Mom - for telling me that same problem she has over and over again. I've offered so many solutions that I want to bang my head on the wall.

Pup - for being so bloody dependant on me. We were hungry. He knew what to order. Instead, he chose to sit there and play some games while I finish my convo with mom on the phone. When I was done, he just smiled at me and I had to walk all the way to the stall to order food.

Then it hit me, why am I constantly putting everyone else before myself?

Why doesn't anyone do it for me?

Not like it matters.

I'll still end up moping and letting it fester until it passes...

Just a dream....

2011-09-17T19:24:00.000+08:00

I was lucky enough to score two complimentary tickets to watch Just A Dream at KLPac today with the pup.

Although it was a play targeted at children, we thought heck, why not? After all, we're both still kids trapped in an adult's body :P

Of course, any sort of photography was not allowed during the show so I can't actually show you how awesome it was... so you'll just have to take my word for it!

Now I haven't been to a play in ages, and from what I remember, most plays that I go to are targeted at adults and the trials and tribulations of adulthood... which IMHO - BORING!!! I mean it's bad enough that we go thru it daily... we don't need to be reminded about it in a play...

Just A Dream is a really simple play. Walter is this boy who doesn't think too much about recycling and litters quite a bit. One night he has this really long dream (or nightmare) about how terrible the world can become if we all littered.

Comical. Interactive. Good ol' wholesome fun.

I'm definitely recommending this show to any one, because no matter how old you are, it brings out the child in you :)

The stage.

Look at all the kids!

The pup and I, waiting for the show to start.

Just A Dream plays at Pentas 1, KLPac, Sept 15-24.

Prices start from RM38 per child or adult

Call 03-4047 9000/9010 or check out www.klpac.org

Lagi Power, Lagi Best! Perodua Myvi 1.5L

2011-09-15T15:22:00.000+08:00

For those who have been following, I'm sure you remember that I went to the Lagi Best media preview and test drive of the new Myvi. So I was very surprised when I got another invitation just three months after to do it again!

I'll be honest with you, this whole thing... really felt like deja vu to me....

Same place. Similar signs. Same faces.

Almost the same looking power point presentation.

The new Myvis were parked at the same spot, with the same grey covers.

And the same guys unveiled the cars....

Ready...

Set...

GO!!!

They even posed the same way...

This is the Myvi 1.5L Extreme. It's the sportier one compared to the two...

It's got a nice fancy spoiler...

Love the wordings. Esp on white. Really does give it an edge, don't you think?

This is what it looks like from the front.

See the diff in the front design?

The Extreme's got a fiercer two toned 'face'

While the SE has a sleeker looking 'face'
(sorry, diff colored car! I took these pix in the show canopy because there were just WAAAYYYY too many people at the unveiling spot)

Wicked 7-spoke alloy wheels.

I'm not entirely gear head so I don't really understand when they said "Wicked". What's so wicked about this?

Anyways, back to the whole deja vu thing... I had a feeling that it was going to be a very similar test drive....

I sat down and was given a number...

Then my Myvi arrived. I got the Extreme in the signature color - Majestic Yellow

As you can see I was quite eager to get into the car!

That's me behind the wheel before I started the journey...

We got a longer track this time around. The last time we literally drove down the road and back (about 4km or so if I'm not mistaken) but this time, it was a much longer track. We actually got to go towards Dengkil and back, giving us ample time and space to actually test it!

I must say. I'm quite impressed with it. Drives like a dream. Manoeuvres easily around corners, bends and parking spots. Pick up from a stand still was good. I actually liked how the Extreme performed.

For more information about these cars, check out www.perodua.com.my

We're moving

2011-08-06T10:45:00.001+08:00

Yup. The lease on our place is coming closer to an end and our landlord has managed to sell the place so we won't be able to stay here anymore.

We finally found a place and put the deposit on it last Friday... just waiting for the owner to sign the deal and confirm that we're moving there.

I'm excited, nervous, anxious... everything rolled in one.

Excited - because we've been eyeing this place for like forever... and to get a unit there at this price... is really a super good deal

Nervous - there's a lot of packing and sorting to do... plus we'll definitely be spending a lot more this month with the deposits, paying the movers and cleaners...

Anxious - I'm not sure how well this will work out. Reason is, we live in a 2+1 bedroom apartment which is roughly 1,200sqf. Now we're moving into a studio unit that's 520sqf.

will

ONE

BIG

ROOM

You know what I mean?

I somehow get this feeling that I might crumble under the whole lack of space thing....

Wish us luck

MFEO (Made for each other)

2011-07-16T10:46:00.003+08:00

Someone said that to me the other day "Oh for crying out loud, Colin and you are totally MFEO..." and I'm like "MFEO?" and he said "Yeah - made for each other."

Then I remembered the song by Kavana... :) here you go!

p/s: cheesy 90s brit pop alert :P

Kavana - MFEO

You know how I love to be with you
Girl you know that its true
We go together so good

When you touch me there
When you kiss that way
Baby you just take my breath away

When you move in close
Your skin's on mine
Don't stop, 'cos we're doin' it right

Chorus:
You've turned me around
I can't let you go
I'll make you see we're MFEO

No matter how long
It takes me to show
You've gotta believe
We're MFEO

I don't know how long I've tried to prove
That I'm the one for you
So don't play games with my mind

When you touch me there
When you kiss that way
Baby you just take my breath away

When you move in close
Feel your skin on mine
Don't stop, 'cos we're doin' it right

Repeat Chorus

Rap:
Blue skies in your eyes I see the feeling
Tell me this baby now do you get the meaning
I love you love what you wanna do love

Sure nuff sugar pie we can think it through love
Bit of this with the touch of your behavior
You can be my cutie pie 'cos you got the flavour

Straight up no lie if you never know
We will forever be M.F.E.O.

When you touch me there
When you kiss that way
Baby you just take my breath away

When you move up close
Your skin's on mine
Don't stop, 'cos we're doin' it right

Repeat chorus to fade

Shigeri Kitsu - Melody of Four Seasons

2011-07-14T23:21:00.009+08:00

So I'm having some alone time and I'm so glad that I did! With the pup around, I barely get to go to any Japanese events because he doesn't understand the language, culture and he doesn't really enjoy the food either! Sad isn't it?

But then again I get to enjoy my own world when he gets to enjoy his worlds.

Anyways, I booked a ticket to watch Shigeri Kitsu, a minyo artiste playing live at the Dewan Sivik MBPJ. To tell you the truth, I had never heard about her before this but I'd never pass on an opportunity to experience something like this!

Being totally unfamiliar with the roads, it took me a really long time to reach the venue. I mean seriously, there were no proper signs to show where the place really was.

We were greeted by these traditionally clothed mannequins at the reception.

Don't ask me why. I really didn't see the point in it. Initially I thought that it had something to do with what she would be wearing during the performance, but nope.

We were allowed to go in and grab our seats at about slightly past 8. The arena was free seating so I was pretty lucky that I got there early, I managed to grab an aisle seat, right in front of the stage.

The night started with the Dewan Budaya's cultural dance troupe doing a contemporary number. This was also something I didn't get.

Then they did a musical performance with some traditional instruments. This was pretty good :)

Then they started to set up Shigeri-san's stage....

She emerged from the darkness of the stage and into the spotlight.

Spring

Summer

Autumn

Winter. This part, she hid in the corner plucking the shamisen while the slide show went on and on with lots of gorgeous winter images.

And she finished off with the drums.

Shigeri-san then dedicated a song to the quake that happened in Japan this year. It was upsetting to see so many lives, especially those of the fishing communities, wiped out. Just. Like. That.

Then she played a few more traditional numbers.

This... by far... was her best performance the entire night IMHO. There was so much vigour, control and passion in this.

Look at her go!!!!

Towards the end of her last song, the local musical troup troops out clapping in tune to the rhythm...

Then we realized that there was a surprise for her! I didn't manage to catch the first slide which said "Today is her birthday."

And they pushed a cake out from the side :)

Me and Shigeri Kitsu.

The performance was amazing. The vocal control and dedication she has in perfecting her craft is really incredible.

But to be honest, after a while, it got a little boring - partly because it was a one (wo)man show but kudos to her for a fantastic performance!

Planning a long weekend of my own :)

2011-07-12T14:38:00.003+08:00

The pup's leaving for Melbourne later today... I'm kinda upset about not having him around for the next five days but I'm also kinda happy because now I have time on my own to do whatever I want!

I've also gotten my leave approved for Thurs and Fri :P so I'm really gonna have a nice long weekend! Definitely going to take the opportunity to catch up with rest and just lazing around at home...

So food wise - I've kinda planned out. Since it's four nights I'll have gyoza, somen (with wakame) in a dashi broth, and maybe a veggie pasta. Oh and I'll definitely be making my usual oats so that I can have something healthy for breakfast or as a snack throughout the day.

Activities - I'll definitely need to do some laundry... maybe I'll wash the car... have a Charmed marathon... do some gardening... and I have a couple of errands to run... so I should be quite busy

Domesticated, no?

A personal experience - Bersih 2.0

2011-07-10T03:10:00.015+08:00

Hi... the pup and I just came back from the rally and are super exhausted from all that running around but just had to share this. This will be a quick pictorial post.

Will write a full account tmr :)

11.30am - Arriving at Masjid Jamek LRT station area. Cops were station at every entry/exit of the station and well over the streets of the area. The entire section of Jln Tun Perak there was cordoned off. No vehicles in or out.

They had already started to check the bags of those who seemed suspicious. But at this point, they weren't at their rudest behaviors.

12.38pm - things started to tense up a bit. Not too sure what was going on, but we sought refuge on Burger King's second floor.

From up there, we noticed there were a lot of rakyat who were pretty in much in the dark and looked super confused at the whole conundrum going on.

Some cops were just chilling out at the sidelines....

Some helped out tourists who were a little lost...

12.52pm - The cops start to disperse the crowd. Everyone starts running

Most people were chased off this street and into the little alleys surrounding the area.

By this time, most shops had already locked down their premises. We were locked inside Burger King.

Then all of a sudden, a convoy of three vehicles appeared on the street. We could only assume that this was the reason why the streets were cleared off?

1.02pm - A group of lawyers (we later learnt there were some from the Bar Council) appeared on scene.

1.15pm - The journos and photogs start running down this street (towards Sogo, I think. I confess I was a little confused on which street was which, so if I am wrong with the street names or directions, please correct me. Thank you)

1.30pm - The FRUs created a formation in front of us at Burger King

They created a small barricade in the middle of Jln Tun Perak....

... and their commander was standing in a truck with a huge bell (I call him the clanger) and instructs them by going *clang clang clang*...

... then they ran to change to formation on the other side of the street....

Tadaa! I really wonder what was the point though....

Then all their trucks came as back up....

Something's going on down the street from us (Petaling St and Puduraya). Everyone starts heading over...

Cops had these HUGE zip tie thingies which they use as handcuffs instead.

2.00pm - The police arrested an Indian man. He wore a Bersih 2.0 t-shirt under his white shirt.

Interesting that they needed six cops to "arrest" this man. He wasn't even struggling or thrashing around. He barely resisted...

But as usual our cops were rough on him and the papz

2.35pm - I finally managed to make my way out from Burger King. The rain had just started then.

More things seemed to be happening down the streets. All the trucks rushed down town.

2.38pm - The cops arrest more people.

2.47pm - We could hear the Bersih 2.0 rally march past us from BK. The pup and I just ran out to join them. This time it was really pouring down on us.

Rain pelted down but it did nothing to dampen our determination and spirit!

3.05pm - We walk towards a t-junction at the end of the road only to meet up with another large group.

Not too long after this, the FRUs came to break the group up. We regrouped few minutes later only to have them back us up into a road and gas us.

We were quite lucky that we came prepared with gas masks. The tear gas stung us faces for a bit and made breathing difficult but I really pity the others around us who only had a hand towel around their faces for protection. We could hear them coughing and hacking profusely.

The St John's Cathedral was just there, so the pup and I sought refuge in the compound.

In the whole process of running for my life, I broke my watch :( One of my favorites too :(

At about 4.00pm we decided that we would walk down the street with our new friends and hopefully regroup with some of the Bersih 2.0 rally-ers. And just around the corner, we saw them coming, and in an even larger group!

4.04pm - we walked down Jln HS Lee and Jln Gereja towards Jln Ampang and we bumped into this gentleman IN A NECK BRACE! Mad respect!

Salut!

4.16pm - We walked down Jln Ampang and finally reached the Jln Sultan Ismail intersection.

We ploughed on through the streets of KL....

This is the amount of people behind us. I can't even begin to tell how many were in front of us!

4.27pm - Power to the rakyat!

We sat for a bit, then some in the group burst out in song - the national anthem!

To sing Negaraku along side my brothers and sisters in a fight, was exhilarating I tell you. Goosebumps and so much pride in me. I never felt THAT proud to be Malaysian.

4.43pm - This was when the last fight came. A police chopper hovered dangerously low above us. Initially we thought it was just trying to drown out the speeches but little did we know was, it was a distraction because less than a minute after that, we heard screams from the right (Jln Ampang) and saw FRUs on foot and in trucks charging at us.

YES. Charging at us!

4.45pm - We ran towards KLCC only to find that it was locked down. And guess who else was rallying with us? Anonymous :)

The FRUs really came down hard on us this time. We had no choice but to run for our lives.

We were on the inside, slightly safer than those who were still on the streets

But the cops showed no mercy. I later found out that it was during this time that the late Baharuddin Ahmad was suffering respiratory complications due to the tear gas bombs that were sent flying his way. Rest in peace, fellow warrior. You will not beforgotten!

Anyways, the pup and I laid low in the park and quickly changed our clothes at the public restroom while plotting a way to get home. We hung out at the park for easily 45 minutes but when we slowly left, we noticed that there were still cops surrounding the perimeter.

5.41pm - We made back to Jln Ampang and saw Mounted Police. I wonder why did they need them for...

All the cops were still there....

And KLCC was still experiencing a lock down. There was still no going in or out and rumors were, the LRT station downstairs had ceased operations. (this just means that the LRT lines are still running but no one gets in or out of the KLCC stop).

After a while, KLCC's doors opened again and we went in thankfully... had to wait for over an hour for them to reactivate the LRT lines for KLCC.

The pup and I finally got home at about 7pm...

Gassed, stomped on, pushed around and all that shit... we're still standing tall. We're still standing proud.

If you've read this, please help spread the word.

Thank you.

To all my brothers and sisters whom we had the privilege of walking alongside in the rally today - thank you for being a part of this, thank you for being the caring Malaysian we know and love, thank you for being selfless, thank you. The pup and I are truly humbled and honored to have walked along with you today on this momentous day. We marched peacefully, with love and patriotism. For liberty and democracy. This is the truth.

July 9, 2011

2011-07-09T07:18:00.004+08:00

Today my friends, will be a momentous day for Malaysia.

Fellow Malaysians from all over the nation will be joining forces at Stadium Merdeka at 2pm (+8GMT) in a call for clean and clear elections.

This call consists of 8 points

Clean the electoral roll

Reform postal ballot

Use of indelible ink

Minimum 21 days campaign period

Free & fair access to all media

Strengthen public institutions

Stop corruption

Stop dirty politics

I'm heading there to walk with my fellow Malaysians. Will you be there?

p/s: for those who are in the dark, read up about it here or type Bersih 2.0 in the Google search bar.

Princess weddings....

2011-07-07T14:02:00.009+08:00

I confess... I've ALWAYS wanted to be a Disney princess when I was growing up. The lovely dresses, the great ending, a Prince Charming, oh the list goes on.

I remember when I was quite young, probably around 3 or 4 years old (I know this for a fact because my dad was still alive then - he passed away 2 weeks before my 5th birthday), I used to be obsessed with Snow White. I would even pick a flower from the garden, then lie down, and place it on my hands, which were neatly folded on my chest. So either mom or dad would have to kiss me to wake me up!

My grandmother even made me a "wedding" dress - complete with veil and bouquet :) my cousins and I would take turns playing bride & bridesmaid.

Getting married has always been a dream of mine - but then again which girl doesn't have a wedding dream.... right?

So when I came across Alfred Angelo's Disney collection, I was estatic!!! This makes me REALLY REALLY want one for my wedding!

Okay, enough talk - it's picture time!

My top 3 choices are........ *DRUM ROLL*

Princess Ariel from The Little Mermaid

Although I do know that I will never be able to pull of a mermaid dress. I don't have the body shape for it. Ahhhh but a girl can dream, can't she? :)

Front

Back

All that detail in the folds at the back, simple gorgeous, no?

Princess Aurora from Sleeping Beauty

This was more of because I loved Aurora's voice and the fact that she had 3 fairy god mothers, of which, two kept changing the colour of her dress!

Front

Back

Belle from Beauty and the Beast

Here's another shot :)

This by far is my favourite dress! It looks almost exactly like Belle's dress except that it's white... and it's real! I would seriously love to wear this to my wedding! OMG OMG OMG I'm fantasizing already :P shhhhhh don't tell the pup!

Front

This is the fun part. See that shrug? It's detachable. So you can have two looks with one simple manoeuvres Alfred's such a genius

See? Perfect looks for the ceremony and the luncheon!

Okay, we've seen my top three choices, here is the rest of Alfred's collection. Enjoy!

Cinderella from Cinderella

Front

Princess Jasmine from Aladdin

Front

Back

Snow White from Snow White and the Seven Dwarves

Front

Back

Tiana from Princess and the Frog

Front

Back

All images taken from www.alfredangelo.com/disney/

Are these signs?

2011-07-03T04:41:00.003+08:00

I believe dreams are either a way for us to work out our frustrations or just a sign that things are going to happen.

I just woke up from a weird one

- proposed to by prince harry (very young one albeit) but gorgeous ring and it was a fun proposal in front of everyone. he was wearing a grey suit

- change scene - was at some conference, dropped pup off earlier while i went to finish up work

- as I was leaving the hotel, the pup leaned over the railing at the restaurant to watch as I walked towards the carpark. We gave each other flying kisses as I disappeared.

- was going to go get lunch but it was raining madness so I got really wet. Wearing white working shirt and had really lustrous hair

- gave up in the end and drove back to the hotel

- there was a road block of some sort but i managed to avoid it (reality check: we just saw a road block heading towards the NKVE from the LDP today)

- somehow i had to wear pants back on because i had taken them off earlier (rain) and i bumped in to four people who supposedly are people i work with - they said they'd gotten the presentation done, all I had to do was read through and get rid of items from it. I felt rather pissed at them for some matter so I gave them the finger and went into the hotel.

- the room door was unlocked so I walked right in only to see someone (who is supposedly my mom) making out with another dude.... AND the pup naked in bed with another woman. I turn green with rage - scream and slapped him but he didn't wake up, so I dragged him out of bed to the bathroom and amazingly picked him up with one hand and splashed his face with water, with my other hand. He woke up and was VERY surprised to see me. I was incoherent then, was just screaming at him.

- as usual he kept apologizing and when I noticed her standing there (she had time to fully dress). she was plain looking and I distinctively remembered her horrid eyeshadow and slit eyes. I was so mad, I grabbed her by the hair at the back of her head and demanded the pup to tell me why.

- it somehow links back to the first dream. apparently he married her too... and it was tiring for him to constantly wlait for me as I work.

I woke up at 4.30am

I apologize for a really random post as my eyes and brains are struggling to type...

And the ugly monster rears its head again

2011-07-01T15:12:00.004+08:00

For those who have been reading... you would've noticed that I've got this huge issue about insecurity - especially when it comes to the pup and a particular bitch.

Then I came across Xiaxue's blog about Trust which is something I totally agree with.

This is a confession that I'm not entirely proud of and I will insist that I did it out of necessity.

When we first started our relationship, things were going perfect. I was still in Ipoh and he was studying in PJ. He'd come back EVERY chance he could - even if it was a weekday just to hang out. We would webcam almost 24/7 - except when I was at work or he was in class. Then one day that particular bitch came into our lives.

Since then, I had never been able to trust him fully.

Even today.

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

1. Call him to see where he is

Nah, I don't do that. Partly because the pup is a bit of a loner sometimes and seeing that we're both from the same group of friends, we pretty much hangout with the same crowd (unless if I'm having a girly night out). Although there was a time where I had this thing installed on our cell phones so that I could see where he was. It really did come in handy.

2. Keeping tabs

Not the best thing to really be doing, I'll tell you. But I've managed to keep tabs on what he does - I'm not going to tell you what it is but Xiaxue mentioned it a few times. And with him not knowing that I was actually keeping tabs was helpful because I could help prevent shit from happening.

Believe me, this has happened twice okay. And I can't begin to tell you how heart-breaking and distressing it is to know that someone you thought wouldn't break your heart - and he does it. And it wasn't even accidental.

3. Fresh bait

Yeah I'm pretty sure he won't go for fresh bait. This is because, from past experience, he goes for ex-gfs/flings. Why? I guess because it's easier - there's no need for a courtship and the whole get to know each other. You can just hop into bed.

So yes, I'm not worried about new people that he meets. Just his history - that's all.

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

In a way I'm not too worried because the pup and I are so connected - I can feel when shit is going to hit the ceiling - so I can always do something to stop it.

So no, even with all that we've been through, I still don't and won't trust him fully because it's true - trust has to be earned over time and unfortunately he knowingly broke it hoping I wouldn't find out.

It's strange isn't it... with all these stuff that's going on I somehow know that it's worth fighting for... :)

Yes I know I'm weird

Please don't disappear...

2011-06-29T12:01:00.003+08:00

I think I've been watching one too many episodes of Charmed... I've just finished Season 5 where Leo's become an Elder.

It's true what they say about Pisceans - that feelings define them. I am often overwhelmed by emotions that most people think I'm making it up.

But yeah back to Charmed... Leo has just been bumped up from just being the girls' white lighter and into an Elder. Not a bad thing really, except that he and Piper just had a kid - baby Wyatt. Plus, things have finally started to go really well for Piper and Leo (finally!)... so now Piper has to deal with the fact that she has no husband and is a single mom.

In my dream last night, I dreamt that somehow or rather, the pup had left. And it was heart-wrenching.

It wasn't like he died... or he decided to end this but more of... he had just left.

So I was left to deal with all his stuff (which I was told by many that I should just leave it and move on because he's not coming back).

I'm probably stressing out that I'll be alone for about five days when he heads over to Melbourne in mid-July...

I don't know...

I'm just stressing...

1000 days of puppy & bunny madness!!!

2011-06-25T20:27:00.004+08:00

Love you so much! <3

Here's to another few thousands :)

We're almost there....

2011-06-24T22:02:00.002+08:00

Wow... 999 days already... I know that the last few months, the relationship between the pup and I have been more of like a married couple instead of boyfriend-girlfriend... but looking back at it, I don't think I would want it any differently....

I know I've been counting down for a bit for this... it's really a big milestone (particularly for me) and I'd love for tomorrow to be a super special day...

Unfortunately, we both have work commitments during the day - I've just moved offices so this weekend we're going in and out of the office getting things unpacked and straightened out. He's having a recording session with his old college mate Rina, who btw has great vocals and she looks bloody adorable! Check out her reverbnation or blog to find out more about her!

So we're just going to go out for dinner instead :) Please pray that we won't be too tired at the end of the day and end up ordering in!

Perodua Myvi.... Lagi Best!

2011-06-17T19:30:00.001+08:00

Last month I got the chance to test drive the new Myvi :) It was a lot of fun and I wish I could.... but I wasn't allowed to post anything up until they launched yesterday at the PWTC.

Anyways, here are some pix that I took that day!

See... Media Test Drive/Preview Event! I'm part of the cool crowd :P Hahaha just kidding. Most media work ahead of time so a lot of companies give us sneak peeks so that we can time the publicity and the launch at the same time :)

Here we go... the unveiling of the new Perodua Myvi!!!

1....

2.....

3!!! Tadaa!!!

It looks pretty cool right? So much sleeker than the older version. I like how the new curves and bold lines makes it look so much more dynamic...

Test drive time! I picked a manual transmission to try out. It was pretty good, except that it's a new car, so the clutch was a little stiff.... but yeah smooth drive and it's got plenty of interior space... perfect for people like me! (you should see the back seat and boot of my car right now, it's FILLED with stuff!)

The Perodua Myvi Elegance model (highest of its range) comes with a multi tasking touch screen multimedia system! It's a radio, GPS, DVD player and also works as a hands free profile. Yup you can use it as your phone as well! Just plug it in and tap on the screen.

Unfortunately, the DVD player is fitted at the front, so according to the rules of the Traffic Department (JPJ), it will only work with the hand brake is pulled!

You know what else is great about this system? It plays MP3 and WMA formats... and is compatible with USB and Bluetooth devices! All it needs now is an iPhone/iPod dock :)

The new Perodua Myvi comes in six colors.... but it's brand new feature color is Mystical Purple. It's pretty nice... and from some angles it comes off very dark... almost like a black but not really black.... if you know what I mean.

That's how spacious the boot is. It actually goes in a bit deeper but with so many people around, I couldn't climb in to show you :) But yeah this is my basic 'measurement' for how big a boot is. If I can sit comfortably in it... then it's good enough for me.

Plus, the back seats fold 60/40 if you need more cargo space. (60/40 means the back seats are divided into a one and two-seater so you can pull either the one-seater down or the two-seater down or both!)

The engine. I saw a lot of people taking pix of it so I did it too but I have no idea what I'm looking at... hahaha!

That's me at the wheel :) This is that Mystical Purple that I was talking about. Quite nice, right?

How could I pass on a cam-whore opportunity? :)

9 days to go

2011-06-16T07:34:00.002+08:00

This is so cool.... can you imagine? Almost 1000 days and still going on strong. I'm more psyched about this than hitting the 3 year mark :P

Oh no... no H2O :(

2011-06-12T09:55:00.004+08:00

I've been waking up rather early on weekends for the past month or so. It's either stress or my body clock just got used to it... I'm usually up by about 6.30 >.< which annoys the crap outta me.

Today I woke up because the pup got up to go to the bathroom.... I gazed at the clock 9.30 and snuggled back under the covers.

Then...

"Errrrrrrr.... hunnnneeeeeee!!!!" the pup calls from the bathroom. "The tap's not working...."

*sigh* stupid construction works.... please give us our water supply back!

how appropriate

2011-06-10T23:15:00.004+08:00

You know there are days when you really just don't feel like doing anything? And you know when it gets worse when there's actually a song about it that you can sing-a-long?

Happy Friday peeps!

p/s: Just in case you guys want to sing-a-long :P

Bruno Mars - The Lazy Song

Today I Don't Feel Like Doing Anything
I Just Wanna Lay In My Bed
Don't Feel Like Pickin' Up My Phone
So Leave A Message At The Tone
'Cause Today I swear I'm Not Doin' Anythin'

I'm Gonna Kick My Feet Up
Then Stare At The Fan
Turn The TV On
Throw My Hand In My Pants
Nobody's Gon' Tell Me I Can't

I'll Be Lounging On The Couch, Jus' Chillin In My Snuggie
Click To MTV So They Can Teach Me Howda Dougie
Cause In My Castle I'm The Freakin' Man
Oh Oh

Yes I Said It
I Said It
I Said It 'Cause I Can

Today I Don't Feel Like Doing Anything
I Just Wanna Lay In My Bed
Don't Feel Like Pickin' Up My Phone
So Leave A Message At The Tone
'Cause Today I Swear I'm Not Doin' Anythin'
Nothin' At All

Woo Hoo Ooh
Woo Hoo Ooh Ooooh Ooh Ooh

Nothin' At All

Woo Hoo Ooh
Woo Hoo Ooh Ooooh Ooh Ooh

Tomorrow I'll Wake Up Do Some P90X
Meet A Really Nice Girl Have Some Really Nice Sex
She's Gonna Scream Out "This Is Great!" (Oh My God! This Is Great!)

Yeah

I Might Mess Around, and Get My Collage Degree
I Bet My Old Man Would Be So Prouda Me
But Sorry Pops You'll Just Have To Wait
Oh Oh

Yes I Said It
I Said It
I Said It 'Cause I Can

Today I Don't Feel Like Doing Anything
I Just Wanna Lay In My Bed
Don't Feel Like Pickin' Up My Phone
So Leave A Message At The Tone
'Cause Today I swear I'm Not Doin' Anythin'

No I Ain't Gonna Comb My Hair
'Cause I Ain't Goin' Anywhere
No No No No No No No No No
Ohhh

I'll Just Strut In My Birthday Suit
And Let Everything Hang Loose
Yeah Yeah Yeah Yeah
Yeah Yeah Yeah Yeah

Yes I Said It
I Said It
I Said It 'Cause I Can

Today I Don't Feel Like Doing Anything
I Just Wanna Lay In My Bed
Don't Feel Like Pickin' Up My Phone
So Leave A Message At The Tone
'Cause Today I swear I'm Not Doin' Anythin'
Nothin' At All

Woo Hoo Ooh
Woo Hoo Ooh Ooooh Ooh Ooh

Nothin' At All

Woo Hoo Ooh
Woo Hoo Ooh Ooooh Ooh Ooh

It's June....

2011-06-04T16:16:00.002+08:00

Time really flies.

I've gotta tell you, 2011 has really been a harrowing year for me.

First the puppy fell down; then his mom decided to cut him off completely since Christmas last year, making our financial situation really really rocky; work has begun to pile up and I'm beginning to wonder if I made the right move, so it's been pretty much downhill this whole year.

I've just gotten a tip off that an international hotel resort about 15 mins away from home is looking to hire someone for their PR side. I know I stopped working in the corp world because I couldn't take the mundane-ness of it, but seriously, I think I have to be a bit more practical these days.

I think I made a bad move - career wise. I had always wanted to be a writer - for as long as I can remember. Then when this opportunity came along, I jumped at it. But now I'm thinking that it's not that all worth it.

Why?

a) I'm write and do stuff that I don't like, don't believe in or are against my principles because these people are clients. It really makes me think why am I doing this? I've just begun to realize that, at the end of the day, it's not that much about the writing but about how much money they can get from the writing.

b) It's not a job that pays well. I know I get quite a fair bit of free things, like trips or products but those stuff do not help to pay the bills - especially not with the financial situation I've been in for the past 6 months...

Oh well, I just wanted to rant.... sorry about this!

Trying to be as eco-friendly as possible

2011-05-25T22:17:00.001+08:00

I've been writing a bit about being friendly to the environment for a while now and especially after the Earth Hour rant, I wanted to show everyone that being environmentally friendly is not that all difficult.

I know it does take a little going out of your regular way but it's really quite worth it!

I know this is a tad unsightly but here's how I collect plastics and paper at home. The plastics need a bit more work though. I make sure they're all clean and empty before putting them in the pile. Let's face it, the people at the recycling plant already have the painstaking job of trying to read which category it falls into, let alone needing to clean it.

For fertilizer, I usually take the odds and ends of veggies, chop them up into smaller pieces and dunk them into the blender. I'll add in some water that I've used to wash/soak veggies in earlier so that it blends smoother...

It really does kinda look like some regular smoothie :P and truth be told, it doesn't smell that all bad!

Dilute the mixture with more water and pour it over my plants like you're watering them like normal. The blended mixture makes it easier for it to disintegrate and it's a lot better than dunking the odds and ends, and waiting for it to decay.

How else do you try to be eco-friendly? Do share some ideas :)

A month flies by...

2011-05-20T18:02:00.003+08:00

Doesn't it?

I've been so busy at work the last four weeks that I haven't had the time to blog.

AT ALL!

Bah...

Anyways just logged in for a bit to let you all know I'm still alive... not necessarily kicking but seriously bogged down with a million things to do...

Just this month alone I've conducted three photoshoots and two interviews... and I have two more shoots at the end of the month (which also means I have to go get my product loans done in time too!)

Wish me luck peeps!

Review: Samsung ST700

2011-05-08T17:07:00.002+08:00

I got the Samsung ST700 to try out a few days ago and I felt compelled to write about it. One of Samsung's flagship touch screen interface and dual LCD screen, I was pretty impressed when I heard about it.

The LCD screen in front was create to make self-portraits MUCH easier for all cam-whores. I mean, let's face it, how many times have you tried to take a shot of yourself, flip the camera around to check the image and think "Oh crap, I'm a little off centre/I kinda blinked/I looked a little to the side."

I was SO excited when I got the box! But my doubts started to kick in when I saw 16 megapixels. I mean seriously, 16 megapixels on a point and shoot is really a bit too much...

This is what it looks like in front. It's really sleek and I love that burgundy red. It's got that posh feel to it, don't you think? Besides, burgundy red sure beats the regular black colored cameras eh? :)

*Also comes in Rose Gold, Silver and Black

Pretty neat huh? It actually fits in the palm of my hand!

It's got a full 3" touch screen interface so the whole camera has like three buttons only. Power. Replay. And I can't remember what the last one did :P

I love the cable. It's a USB 2.0 to 20 pin connector. It's so much easier to connect to my netbook to upload images...

Just plug the thinner end into the camera and the regular sized USB into your netbook and you're ready to transfer!

It comes with a little stylus for the touch screen. Much as they try, Samsung still hasn't nailed that smoothness the Apple products have. I somehow found using this a little cumbersome. I mean, to have to whip that out to start poking at the screen? Nah, I used my fingers mostly but it didn't respond as fast and smooth as I'd like... At times it was rather laggy too...

But besides that whole laggy-ish touch screen thing, it does come with a whole bunch of cool applications in it.... here's the first page....

And the second page....

I tried the Vignetting application and this is what I got

And the Photo Editor function was pretty cool too. It makes it so much easier to take cool pix without having to know how to do it technically....

Miniature effect

Half tone dot effect

Fog effect

Old Film I effect

Old Film II effect

Soft tone effect

Sketch effect

Fish eye effect

Classic effect

Black & White effect

Retro effect *I love this one! It makes my pix look like I took them in the 80s!

Negative effect

The third page.... and I didn't take a pic of the last page because it was a photobook thing...

But look how cool!!! It's got this whole pre-set templates in the Magic Frame application that you can just use for fun pix! Look what I did :P

It even has a beauty shot application and I thought okay.... let's see how it worked!

Pretty good eh? My skin looks so much smoother and softer...

That's what you look like taking a self portrait :P or at least that's what I look like taking a self portrait. It's really fun... and SO much more easier...

THE REAL TEST

This is when I pitted the ST700 against my LX3. To be fair, I set them both on Auto and just snapped away.

The first image of each set is from the ST700 and second from my LX3. You be the judge :)

Nasi Kandar from Original Kayu at Aman Suria. I noticed that the colors on the ST700 seemed a little "washed out" while the colors on the LX3 popped a bit more for this.

Not that much different for the teh 'o' ais limau though :P

I find the second image a bit more appetizing...

Then we went to the Indie Aid Japan at Laundry, The Curve.

And saw Azmyl Yunor perform. Damn he's good! I loved how easy going his demeanour was and it really reflected on his performance. I totally grooved along to his entire performance! Two thumbs up!

The event leaflet.

One of the many fab bands setting up...

Oh I miss these tags :) Reminds me of the time Shi Mann and I went to Sunway Lagoon and rode the Skyflyer 8 times in a row and got so high that we totally forgot to take them off...

And Lab the Rat performing.

Pros: Lots of fun pre-set applications and settings. Gives you really cool results every time. Small in size and quite light, fits pretty much into any pocket!

Cons: Images come out a bit washed out (compared to the LX3). Touch screen interface is a bit laggy and the stylus doesn't really help that much either. Doesn't work that all well in low light conditions.

Would I recommend it? In and all, I'd say it's a great point and shoot for those who don't like to don't want to figure out the technicalities in trying to get that particular "look". Plus at RM1,149 it's not a bad buy. But seriously, I doubt guys would get as much fun out of this as the girls.

Eukanuba Launches Online Search for Extrodinary Dogs!

2011-04-22T15:53:00.002+08:00

Now this is definitely a show I can watch!

Did you know that dogs can see in the dark, hear things from 420m away, run over 72/kmph, pull over eight times their own body weight?

Yup, dogs are indeed very extraordinary! (existing dog lovers - I'm sure you can attest to this.)

So, to celebrate this, Eukanuba is set to launch the global premiere of its TV series Eukanuba Extraordinary Dogs. Each episode will focus on fascinating aspects of the dog's life, exploring the wonderful world of man's best friend.

This show premieres on Saturday, April 23 (that's tomorrow) at 1.50pm on the National Geographic Channel (Astro Ch 553) and will run for 13 episodes, ending on July 16.

Plus, Eukanuba will launch its official facebook page on Monday, April 25 for dog lovers across Asia to share their stories about extraordinary dogs. Plus, they'll also host an online campaign to find their next extraordinary dog to star in an upcomingo Eukanuba campaign. How cool is that?

I wish my dogs were still alive though. I'd very much love to enter them for the campaign!

How extraordinary were they?

Well it's not like they jumped thru hoops of fire or became CIA agents. They were extraordinary because they were such unique characters. Plus they lived such long and healthy lives with us...

Both of them lived for a super long time - Ben for 15 and Bo for 17 human years (the average median of a dog's lifespan is about 10-13 years but of course this varies by breeds). That's pretty old for a dog!

They were extraordinary because they were my best friends :)

Have you got a pet story to share? Please do!

Marchesa for Playboy!

2011-04-21T10:56:00.004+08:00

OMG OMG OMG OMG OMG

I've already expressed my love for Marchesa designs in an earlier blog and bunny ears.... OMG OMG OMG to see collaborative work with these two are simply magnificent!!!

OMG OMG OMG I'm so excited that I'm actually speechless!

Image taken from this story.

Double bleh

2011-04-20T16:08:00.004+08:00

Remember when I blogged about how much I don't like blogging from the office (but just can't help it at times)?

My first blog post of the week Free Your Mind just makes me even more irked...

I mean, seriously? Why does my alignment run like that??? I don't get it. I really don't. I have no problems with getting it right with my own netbook but it's just the office desktop that messes everything up...

If anyone knows how to troubleshoot this, I would really appreciate some help/advise/suggestions.

Thank you!

Indie Aid Japan

2011-04-19T09:25:00.005+08:00

In the spirit of helping, come support Indie Aid Asia and help raise more funds for Japan!

Indie Aid Japan is a 28 track, digital download compilation album. It's a collaborative effort between artists - some who are accomplished and award winning, the others who are bedroom and garage musicians from all around the world to help the tsunami victims of Japan!!!

It only costs USD6 (that's roughly 20MYR) which is WAY cheaper than a regular CD... plus you'll really be helping out these indie artists in getting their sound out.

Oh and if you're feeling generous, you can donate more too! :)

If not, you could always just take a listen - it's free anyways... and then help spread the news!

p/s: puppy's track is listed there too!!! Let me know if you can spot it :P

Free your mind

2011-04-18T14:58:00.000+08:00

I was scouring webpage after webpage looking for an inspiration to write (for work of course) and instead I found inspiration to write something here :P Found this website which has 50 questions That Will Free Your Mind... and as I read thru the first few ones, I thought "Oooohhh blogpost!!! Blogpost!!!" Yeah, so anyways... here's my take on the questions... 1. How old would you be if you didn't know how old you are? Seriously, in the last few months... I've had so many things on my mind, I had to actually sit back to figure out how old I am. But I guess I'd have to say mid-20s. I really don't feel like I'm about to hit the big three-o. 2. Which is worse, failing or never trying? Never trying. I hate the feeling of knowing that I never tried. At least if I failed, I know it's something I'm not capable of... but to go through life thinking "What if..." just kills me 3. If life is so short, why do we do so many things we don't like and like so many things we don't do? Society and peer pressure. We do what society says we should do or else we're outcasts or weird or eccentric. 4. When it's all said and done, will you have said more than you've done? Yes that's for sure. Much as I'd like to take action, I talk and think more than I actually do. Shameful, really. 5. What is the one thing you'd most like to change about the world? You know, I'm not too sure. There are just so many things - but I guess patience? 6. If happiness was the national currency, what kind of work would make your rich? Smiles and hugs!!! 7. Are you doing what you believe in, or are you settling for what you're doing? When I first switched jobs, I thought I was doing what I believed in. I thought I was done chasing my career dream, that I've landed my dream job. Yeah... only to realize I didn't and now I'm doing it because I said I'd commit myself to it. 8. If the average human life span was 40 years, how would you live your life differently? If that were true, I'd want to quit my job and just backpack across the world! So much to see, learn and experience and so little time. 9. To what degree have you actually controlled the course your life has taken?

Not much. I'm not a very aggressive kind of person. I've pretty much lived my life the way it's been planned out in the past. I didn't move to the city for college because mom wanted me nearby. I went to university in Australia because mom wanted me to (I wanted Canada - and the shitty thing was, BOTH universities accepted and exempted me for 2 years on their degree programs. Canada was 4 years in total, Australia was 3. You do the math). I'm working because society says this is what you should do after completing your tertiary studies.

The only things I control the course of my life is via my vices/indulgences/whatever you call it.

10. Are you more worried about doing things right, or doing the right things?

I'm more worried about doing the right thing. Because most times it's the more difficult and challenging choice to make. 11. You're having lunch with three people you respect and admire. They all start criticizing a close friend of yours, not knowing she is your friend. The criticism is distasteful and unjustified. What do you do? Been there, done that. Depending on who all these people are... but to be safe I've had people bash up my best friend in front of me... and my best friend talking shit about my boyfriend. Most times, I'll leave them to it and dont' add on anything. After all, it is their opinion, and everyone's entitled to a few, aren't they? I mean, to me - it sometimes doesn't really matter because I know that person and in situations like these, mostly likely I know that person MUCH better than they do... so just smile and drink your coffee. 12. If you could offer a newborn child only one piece of advice, what would it be? Sleep more. 13. Would you break the law to save a loved one? Depends on what the loved one did... 14. Have you ever seen insanity where you later saw creativity? All the time... I am after all sharing my life with an insanely creative person 15. What's something you know you do differently than most people? Live life? 16. How come the things that make you happy don't make everyone happy?

Because I'm able to find joy in the simplest things? Because I'm not as materialistic as most other women?

17. What one thing have you not done that you really want to do? What's holding you back? Bungee jump. Fear holds me back. 18. Are you holding onto something you need to let go of?

Yes... but I'm not entirely sure what it is... still trying to figure it out.

19. If you had to move to a state or country besides the one you currently live in, where would you move and why? Well the pup and I have been in discussions about moving to Melbourne but that's still in planning and will take a while before we really see any results from there. 20. Do you push the elevator button more than once? Do you really believe it makes the elevator go faster? To close the doors, yes. Other than that - sometimes... if the elevator takes too long... I do it mostly out of boredom though... 21. Would you rather be a worried genius or a joyful simpleton? Joyful simpleton. I love not having anything much to worry about. Makes life so much more worth living! 22. Why are you, you? Because I am not you or anyone else for that matter. 23. Have you been the kind of friend you want as a friend? Depending on which friend you're talking about :P 24. Which is worse, when a good friend moves away, or losing touch with a good friend who lives right near you? The latter. Both my best friends live in different countries and despite the time differences and work schedules, we still make time to talk all the time... 25. What are you most grateful for? The people in my life - past, present and future. Without them, I would never be who I am and the person I will become. 26. Would you rather lose all of your old memories, or never be able to make new ones? Hmmm... I'm not that all sure really. 27. Is it possible to know the truth without challenging it first? Gee this is deep... I guess it depends on the situation, really... 28. Has your greatest fear ever come true? *sigh* which greatest fear? If you're talking about something that I worry about before turning 30 then yes. If not then my greatest fear before I hit 40 has not happened yet... phew! 29. Do you remember that time 5 years ago when you were extremely upset? Does it really matter now?

Okay... five years ago I was 24. What happened at 24.... well I was leaving Australia to come back to Malaysia and it was really upsetting because I had to leave my sister (from other parents) behind. We had lived our lives together, literally 24/7 since we were 16... and for the first time in my life I had to really be on my own.

I remember waking up the next day in Malaysia and I cried. I cried because I was alone. I cried because I couldn't go online to talk to her. I cried because I hadn't gotten a cell phone yet so I couldn't call or text her. I cried.

So yes, I remember that time 5 years ago when I was exteremly upset and yes it still does matter. She's still in Australia and I'm still in Malaysia. We haven't physically seen each other for about 4 years now and I miss her like crazy!

30. What is your happiest childhood memory? What makes it so special? Hanging out with my grandfather. I'm about two or three years old... he's sitting in his usual chair and I'm standing on his feet. We used to play the "swings" where I stand on his feet and he lifts his legs up straight and I go from standing straight to "flying". It's special because it's one of the few memories I actually have of my childhood. I don't remember much as a child. 31. At what time in your recent past have you felt most passionate and alive?

When I was in university - living on my own (well not really on my own because I had my sister with me) in a foreign country and really standing on my two feet.

I loved being responsible for myself. I loved making decisions for myself. I loved seeing how well I lived my life there.

32. If not now, then when?

Hopefully I'll be able to do that again in less than five years time. Fingers crossed!

33. If you haven't achieved it yet, what do you have to lose?

I don't know... my pride? My dignity? My sanity? 34. Have you ever been with someone, said nothing and walked away feeling like you've just had the best conversation ever? Yes :) Well not really best conversation ever... but just the best time fo my life... 35. Why do religions that support love cause so many wars? Where there's black, there's white. Where there's good, there's evil. Where there's love, there's war. 36. Is it possible to know, without a doubt, what is good and what is evil?

I guess. Most times it's a gut instinct. Other times it's just something you have to know over time and experiences.

37. If you just won a million dollars, would you quit your job?

In a heartbeat, yes! 38. Would you rather have less work to do, or more work you actually enjoy doing?

More of what I enjoy doing. I really don't mind work... I just don't like it when I'm doing something that doesn't matter to me or that are against what I believe in.

39. Do you feel like you've lived this day a hundred times before?

Oh yes, definitely. I feel like I'm living this hour over and over again.

40. When was the last time you marched into the dark with only the soft glow of an idea you strongly believed in?

I'd say about 1 1/2 to 2 years ago... I remember being very upset with someone and thought that it might be the end of the road. Then a flicker of hope (yeah okay I know it's such a bloody cliche) came and showed me the way. 41. If you knew that everyone you know was going to die tomorrow, who would you visit today?

I really shouldn't answer this. I don't even know why I'm thinking of him.

42. Would you be willing to reduce your life expectancy by 10 years to become extremely attractive or famous?

Well if the average human life expentancy is 40... sure why not? 43. What is the difference between being alive and truly living?

I think being alive, is just really feeling thankful. Truly living is appreciation for everything.

44. When is it time to stop calculating risk and rewards and just go ahead and do what you know is right?

Hahaha it's gotta be a gut feeling you get to know when. No one can tell you when. It's like jumping off the diving board. The coach or mom or dad or your teammates can scream at you "JUMP NOW!!!" but if you don't feel it, don't do it. Simple as that. 45. If we learn from our mistakes, why are we always so afraid to make a mistake? Because much as we CAN learn, mistakes are usually costly. 46. What would you differently if you knew nobody would judge you?

I'd love not wear as much clothes. I'd be a hippie if I could!

47. When was the last time you noticed the sound of your own breathing?

At work, never. At home - usually when I'm in bed, awake in the mornings.

48. What do you love? Have any of your recent actions open expressed this love?

I love dogs, bunnies, guinea pigs - basically cute furry little animals. I love playing the piano. I love dancing ballet.

For the first one, well I have two guinea piggies so yeah I feed them, make sure they get good quality food, talk to them that sorta thing. I love giving them little treats - like a slice of green apple once in a while (especially when I'm prepping some Bircher muesli) or a teensy bit of screwpine leaf or a nice cold piece of Romaine lettuce when I come home from work.

Piano and ballet - I wish I could express myself thru these two but unfortunately with time and financial constraints, I'm not able to. They're in my future plans though!

49. In 5 years from now, will you remember what you did yesterday? What about the day before that? Or the day before that?

Maybe. Because yesterday I rushed home from work to play Bomberman and Super Mario Bros. Puppy installed these old skool games on the pc outside and I'm going nuts over it! 50. Decisions are being made right now. The question is: Are you making them for yourself or are you letting others make them for you? Unfortunately I'm letting other make them for me. I'm in a phase where I just want to sit and let them worry about everything. I'll just do what I'm being told.

Such a spaz

2011-04-12T12:09:00.002+08:00

I just realized that I've received quite a number of comments over the past years and never replied. Such a n00b. :( To those whom I've never replied, I'm terribly sorry! I've set the notifications to be sent to my email now so I'll always know... so keep 'em coming!!!

New beginning

2011-04-10T23:57:00.000+08:00

Puppy starts his new job tomorrow....

That means a lot of new adjustments to our lives - which I'm half looking forward to and half dreading....

That also means that the kids have to eat brekkie before we leave the house instead of around noon... and dinner will be the usual time...

But it's all good :)

We're off to a new start in our lives and it's a great thing to be having!!!

My next new kitchen toy...

2011-04-08T16:56:00.002+08:00

... will be a butter curler!!!

Imagine all that pretty butter curls sitting on my table at brekkie!!! :)

*wriggling toes in anticipation and excitement!!!*

Maybank's new security feature

2011-04-07T16:42:00.004+08:00

For the past month, every time I log into my Maybank online account, I was prompted with a pop-up saying that they'll be upgrading their security services.

Last week when I logged in, I was greeted with a notification asking if I'd like to upgrade now, so I clicked yes. It brought me to a page with about 25 images or so and asked me to choose one. It was quite weird... so I randomly clicked a white flower.

Then they asked me for a security phrase. So I typed in "Take your pants off and jacket". After that, there were the usual three security questions that only I would know the answer yadda 3x.

After that whole process I was thinking "Wow they really went through quite a bit eh?"

Yeah... right...

Because now EVERY TIME I log in... Maybank displays that for the whole damn world to see.

I mean seriously??? If I were to be prompted "Please choose an image/type in your secret phrase to confirm your identity." I wouldn't be as pissed...

Geez... it's not like it's even a trick question... at least they could show me the wrong image/phrase...

So much for "better security"

Bah!

What's your secret ambition?

2011-03-28T17:31:00.005+08:00

I remember asking a friend this sometime earlier in the year, and she answered excitedly "A storm chaser!"

And I'm like "Really? A storm chaser?"

She nodded really enthusiastically.

Then she asked me... what was mine... and the first thing that came to mind was a giraffe.

O_o

"Coming from you, I somehow don't find it that all surprising," she said. "But think about it... it could be a good driver/motivator..."

So I did... It took me a while... but I think I know what I secretly would love to do but I know I cannot.

Yes, a prima ballerina. And to dance the role of the Swan Queen no doubt.

I've been obsessed with ballet since I was young. Mom never let me go for classes. She was afraid that I'd walk like a duck (that's how she described turned out legs). Instead, she plopped me down for piano lessons, which I did like.

I finally got my chance to dance... when I turned 18. A little late by then, and I will admit, it was a little embarassing to be joining the five year old class, but still, I enjoyed myself thoroughly.

I took on the Cecchetti method, which apparently a bit more rigid in terms of training. It was said that Ceccheti had mentioned "It is more important to get it right once than to do it a dozen times carelessly."

I loved learning about the positions for my hands and feet, how to do a plie properly, working on my posture and techniques at the barre, learning new French words... it was a dream.

Classes went on for about 18 months till I had to call it quits. My teacher had decided to get married and take a hiatus and I couldn't find another teacher. Plus, it was getting expensive.

But the feeling of tying on your ballet slippers, are just magical....

I wish I had enough time and dedication to go all the way. I'd really love to go en pointe. I've tried wearing pointe shoes and standing... it really is difficult and four out of five times, my calves cramped up.

So one thing I've learnt about ballet is that, it takes a lot of energy and skill to look that graceful. I thought it was easy... but it sure as hell wasn't.

Given a chance, I would say yes to ballet classes again in a heartbeat (granted that I have the time and money to spare).

So yes, my secret ambition is to dance! What's yours?

Earth Hour

2011-03-26T16:56:00.000+08:00

You know how the hype about saving Mother Nature has taken over our lives by storm in recent years?

While I think it's a noble effort to TRY to get people to help conserve energy through Earth Hour (held traditionally on the last Saturday of each March from 8.30pm-9.30pm local time), I think it's just a bunch of fluff.

Yes. You. Heard. Me. Right.

FLUFF

Why?

If you really want to help save Mother Nature and conserve energy, ONE hour per person in ONE year isn't making that much of a difference.

This whole Earth Hour thingie, is just so that posers can feel good about themselves.... like they've done something.

Think about it. Most people are doing it to be cool and go around telling others "Hey I turned off all the electrical appliances in my home for one hour during Earth Hour, did you?"

You think I'm being cocky, I know... but seriously... think about it... participating in Earth Hour only is like going on a crash diet. And we all know that's not the best way to lose weight.

If you really want to help save Mother Nature and conserve energy, try reducing your carbon foot print on a daily basis.

Be a localvore!

Try to eat foods that are available locally as much as possible. The more imported your foods are, the higher the carbon foot print. Of course the occassional indulgence is allowed but, really... keep it occassional.

You could also try to grown your own stuff. With living space constraints, it's not really possible to plant enough fruits/veg to sustain you (and your family), but it still helps a bit. Plus, at least you'll know the quality of the fruit/veg that you'll be eating!

Save electricity!

Use energy saving bulbs and remember to turn lights and switches off whenever not in use. This can really make a difference in your electricity bill

You should also check your electrical appliances at home. Some might be old, second-hand or even hand me downs. Not that there's anything wrong with that, but sometimes these older ones tend to lose their efficiency and consume more energy.

Travel more carbon foot print friendly!

Carpool if you can. Most people think it's not cool to carpool any more and that being able to travel by yourself in your own car is some sort of luxury. QUIT that thought!

If you can, try to take public transportation as well. It takes a longer time but hey at least it's cheaper than driving and you'll never have to worry about parking... right?

If it's close enough, walk! A little exercise will help lift your spirits and keep you healthy too :)

Oh and if you really don't need to, don't fly.

Recycle!

This is really simple, but it can get a little time consuming. Separate your trash daily - plastics, paper, glass, aluminium... that sorta thing. And make sure if it was a container, like a juice bottle or a soda can, rinse it out first. If it was a pizza box, throw the inner piece away but recycle the outer box.

Bring your own shopping bags. Now this is not an excuse that Malaysia has just implemented this new "fad" and all that nonsense. I've been personally doing this for six years now and believe me, it was bloody difficult getting the cashiers at the supermarkets to let me use my bags and not plastic bags. Plus, these days, all the shopping bags come foldable/collapsible so they're really compact and will fit in your handbag.

(Personally, I carry two shopping bags with me on a daily basis. This is just in case I need to do some shopping, I'll have no excuse.)

You can also recycle your old bits of fruits and veg into compost. It's really easy to do and it's great for your garden!

Remember, a little goes a long way!

If you want to know what your carbon foot print is here or tips on how to reduce it... click here!

Here's mine. I'll be entirely honest, I wasn't sure how much electricity we use at home because I don't have the bill with me... so it was an estimate.

So at the end of this all... NO I will not be taking part in Earth Hour. I believe in doing things in the long run.

Note: All images taken from Getty except for the print screen of my carbon foot print.

He got it!!!

2011-03-25T12:33:00.000+08:00

No that's not him... that's just some random guy in a pic I got from Getty (thanks!)

Anyways yeah... puppy GOT THE JOB!!!

The dude was so impressed with him, he offered the pup the job on the spot :)

This calls for a celebration!!!

I like!!!!

2011-03-24T17:13:00.002+08:00

Christian Dior AW2011/12

Louis Vuitton (worn by Kate Moss) AW2011/12

And last but not least, Georgina Goodman's sketch for the Royal Wedding.

bleh

2011-03-23T11:19:00.005+08:00

Sometimes I really hate blogging from the office... well not that I'm supposed to but it's a good outlet for me to express myself....

Why?

I cannot cut/copy and paste ANYTHING here.

So I can't show excerpts, I can't embed videos.... I can only type and attach images... which sometimes just irks me like crazy....

Oh and the alignment stuff here goes nuts too... some days it looks fine... other days, no matter how I format it, it just doesn't want to listen to me.... (this post will likely look like I have no idea where the "Enter" button is)

So yeah... that's the reason why I haven't been posting as often (as I should or as I like).

Cross yer fingers, matey!

2011-03-21T15:04:00.001+08:00

Pup's got a call for an interview - sound effects with a gaming company...

Fingers crossed everyone :)

Image taken from here.

yummy burgers!!!

2011-03-19T22:12:00.003+08:00

We just came back from dinner with mum at Carl's Jr. You know times have changed when you as the child, brings mum out for a burger meal and she's all excited about it.

p/s: mum was excited about this because there is no Carl's Jr in Ipoh and her only burger choices are McDonald's and Burger King.

The puppy chose to have the Portobello Mushroom burger....

While mum and I shared the Guacamole Bacon Burger.

It was absolutely yummers!

Since mum's enjoying eating burgers... the next time she comes by for a visit... I'm taking her to The Daily Grind for a Lamburghini!

Lesser of two evils

2011-03-18T14:53:00.004+08:00

I was just thinking about it in the washroom today... which is worse

Using toilet paper to dry your hands

Using a dryer to dry your hands

Think about it for a bit.

Paper = Dead trees

Dryer = Energy consumption

Just a random thought.

Happy Friday peeps!

Oh and btw, mum's on her way down for the weekend :) I'll have to sneak out of the office in a bit to go pick her up though... still wondering if I should say anything or just go out....

Still thinking...

I did, didn't I?

2011-03-14T14:43:00.000+08:00

I got a call today from an agency asking me what time will I be arriving for their event. Which made me uber confuzzled <-- see? I love using this portmanteau!

The dude kept insisting that I RSVPed for the event and it's going to happen tonight at 6.30 and if I'd be there and I'm like "What the hell kind of event is this???"

So after a few more mins of wrestling information out of him, he told me to go check out this website.

*lightbulb* I asked "Would I be able to get a copy of the RSVP that I sent over?" because heck, I wanted to see proof!

THEN he tells me "Oh it was sent by post..."

I'm like "Dude I haven't stepped into a post office in ages... I'm pretty sure I didn't RSVP..."

"Yeah but I have your name in my database... it says you RSVPed 9.03am on February 25th..."

So for a moment, I thought okay... maybe I did RSVP for it... so I said I'll take a look at the website and asked if he could call back in an hour's time.

Looked at it... SO not my thing. He's so gonna get it when he calls back

What ticks you?

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

1. When people who live or work on the 2nd floor take the damned lift.
Walk dammit, WALK! You're only ONE flight of stairs away... heck, my old work place was three storeys high and I used to walk up and down every day IN MY FRICKIN' HEELS!

Every time I'm in the lift and it hits the 2nd floor, I always feel like saying "Dude, you're one floor away... take the stairs,"

Okay fine, if you've got some health condition or are pregnant... but the other people... geez!!!

2. Female drivers who think they're great drivers
I really do. It's a known fact that generally women have a poorer sense of estimation and accuracy when it comes to driving. There are some women who are good drivers and a handful that are great drivers. Other than that, you other women out there fall under bad drivers who probably don't even realize it.

Why do I say that? I've been in SO many scenarios where either I'm with someone who is like that... or I'm driving behind someone like that.

Eg: I'm in the car with a colleague. She gets in, doesn't put on her seat belt and places her left elbow on the arm rest and speeds off. Alternates stepping on the accelerator/brakes as she pleases (mostly because she's going too fast and ends up tailgating someone for most of the journey). Doesn't use the indicator when she switches lanes or turns at corners. Texts while driving - Okay fine I admit, I do this too, but at least I keep my eyes on the road enough to not sway out to the other lane every 5 seconds.

Yeah so that's what ticked me off today :P

How about you? What ticks you off?

:(

2011-02-27T09:32:00.000+08:00

I haven't had a horrid dream in a really long time and I really hate it when I wake up in tears...

Just now I woke up from a dream where reality was just so weird and unusual, but normal at the same time, it made me uber confuzzled (learnt this new word from Mann. It's a portmanteau of confused and puzzled. Cool eh?).

Yeah so in my dream, puppy broke up with me and asked me to move out. But since he knows its hard for me to just find a place, he said I could stay here till then.

And it was just so weird coming home to see him at his desk playing some game or mastering some track, knowing that he heard me coming in and he didn't even flinch a muscle (this is of course a metaphor because if you're playing games or mastering a track, you'd be flinching plenty of muscles). There was no more welcoming hug, there was no more "How was your day bunny?" and there was no more kiss on the forehead.

Instead I walked past the room door, looked in and said "Hi, I'm home..." and all I got was a grunt.

Anyways I checked the dream dictionary and in a dream, if your boyfriend says he doesn't love you any more, that's just your own insecurities in a relationship. Either that or both of you are just going through a relationship cycle/new level where you might feel left out or you don't really get what he's really going through.

What a dream to have right before my birthday... :(

w00t?

*sigh*

the best thing...

2011-02-24T23:24:00.000+08:00

That he's said to me so far was "Thank you bunny... you're my Sharon Osbourne."

*beam*

Wishlist update!

2011-02-21T10:50:00.000+08:00

Okay I want one of these babies...

Ambitious? Yes and no :P

I haven't really played a piano in over 15 years. Yes I'm not kidding, and yes I do miss playing the piano terribly.

This would be cool eh? A nice white baby sitting by the large French windows over looking the garden :)

Eight days more

2011-02-20T22:20:00.006+08:00

Yup. Eight days more till I turn 29.

I don't really feel that all different. But then there's one whole week to go... ask me again when it's Wednesday or even Saturday...

Anyways, it's time to compile my wish list again. I had one written up last June and here comes the updated one (again)...

This has become increasingly difficult for me to compile as I have begun to desire less material belongings in the past few months. It could be partly because I know I want things that I cannot afford, and also I know the people around me won't be able to afford giving them to me any more.

But I guess it's not that all a bad thing, right? Like, it allows me to immerse myself into things that are more important to the psyche :)

1. LX-5
Yes I have this insatiable appetite for Lumixes. I started with the LX1 in 2006... and haven't looked back. I have yet to find any other point and shoots/non-DSLRs that can match the Lumix range so far...

On the down side, apparently it's only a slight improvement compared to my LX3, so it's not really that all worth it for an upgrade for me...

But look at this baby!!!

Here are some links here and here if you're interested :P

Okay... now to move on to the next one

2. Victoria's Secret Pure Seduction Collection

I don't think I'm ever going to want to stop using this collection. Or at least until they stop production of it.

3. Dresses
I still want more dresses. It doesn't help that my part-time maid knicked three of my fave dresses and no one at home realized until much later. I of course had no inkling of it at all since I was at work... How she sneaked three dresses out.... baffles the shit outta me.

Chiam See No 14

2011-02-02T17:17:00.001+08:00

"It seems that you have some worry in your mind. Whatever business you are going to do now will not flourish. If you are in trouble, do not worry too much, because you have bad luck now. You will become rich and prosperous in the next few years. You have no hope in love now and should not make love during this time otherwise you will lose your favorite things. A sick person in your family will get well soon. Your debtors are faithful to you. Your luck in other things is no good."

*Sigh* as if having the feeling of impending dread and doom the last few weeks wasn't bad enough, I get this as my fortune...

Oh well, it's said and done. Plus, I can't have great fortune told all the time right? There's always gotta be some good and some bad, so I'm just gonna go with the flow.

The Body Shop Heroes of the Earth Launch, Subak.

2011-01-27T18:14:00.002+08:00

I was pretty excited about this I must say - mainly because it was held at Subak which I've always wanted to go, but never managed to...

The place was kinda hard to get to... but it was well worth it.

The welcoming banner... as you can see, the place is pretty tucked into the foothills and is very much inspired by nature

Their cool display. They actually transported an actual rain shower over just for this! The Earth Lovers Shower Gels are finally 100% biodegradable which is great news for the environment! Now you can even take these on camping trips with you to shower and not worry about polluting the soil or water!

They come in seven gorgeous smells - Apricot & Basil, Cucumber & Mint, Watermelon & Eucalyptus, Fig & Rosemary, Lemon & Thyme, Pear & Lemongrass and Aloe Vera for Sensitive Skin.

A guessing game. Every table had a basket with some of the ingredients as well as unmarked bottles of the body gel range. We were required to rely on our sense of smell to identify which was which... unfortunately for the people at The Body Shop, they didn't cover up the ingredient list at the back, so it was pretty easy for us :P

You can see why I fell in love with the place.... it's SO inspired by nature, it's actually got water running down from the hillside filling up the pond and instead of completely clearing the land to build the place, they built the place around the land.

The Body Shop's Citronella candle. These candles are made from 100% vegetable wax which is safer for both the consumer and the environment. This is the one where each one sold, contributes to raising funds for Sisters in Islam. There are a few more. Check out The Body Shop's Candles of Conscience campaign here.

A close up of the display. Of course the fruits and vegetables that were used for the body gels were on display too.

Get those creative juices flowing and make your own juice! You know when I first heard of this, I though we get to really make our own... turns out a guy will make it for you, you just tell him which ingredients you want *facepalm*

(L-R) Oranges, apples, lemons, watermelon, celery and mint, take your pick; mine was a apple, celery and mint which wasn't that all good, but heck, it's real fruit juice so I have no complaints and Steph's watermelon, apple, lemon and mint.

Pick your plant and be your own gardener!

They had sweet basil, rosemary and mint.

And if you didn't know how to do it... they had staff on hand to help or show you the right way to do it as well as offer advice you on how to take care of the plant.

While waiting for my turn, I saw these! I haven't seen these items in real life! For the life of me, I can't remember what it's called, but the one on the left is some sort of mortar & pestle, but instead of pounding the ingredients, they're rolled across the 'board'.

The next one, is a grinder. I'm sure they use it for other stuff as well but I've seen it more commonly for soy - to make soy milk or tofu.

Anida, who had the patience in the world to neatly transplant her mint.

My rosemary and Steph's mint. I walked past the planting area and saw that there were extra plants so I asked if I could get another and they said yes... so now I have a rosemary and mint! :)

Oh, and remember that guessing game (that we pretty much cheated on)? Well we won it! So each member of the team won a complimentary The Body Shop Shampoo set.

I'm what...?

2011-01-25T17:22:00.001+08:00

Yeah. For the first time in my life, I'm dog-less.

I know, it sounds trivial. But I've never lived without a dog in my life before and the reality of it sounds kinda weird... and scary at the same time...

Bo girl :)

2011-01-24T21:22:00.000+08:00

Mum called earlier. Bo left us. we knew this day was going to happen. She's lived a healthy 17 years with us and I really couldn't ask for more.

Today, I lost my pet dog.

Today, I lost my (almost) life long companion.

Today, I lost my best friend.

Today, I lost Bo to heaven.

I'm pretty sure she's up there hanging out with Ben and just chilling out.

She deserves it.

Bo, I'm sorry I wasn't there. I'm sorry things had to be this way. I want you to know that I loved you with all my heart.

My little girl, when she was about 6-9 months old. She was always the bully at home despite her tiny size.

She always came up to me for cuddles no matter what I was doing. Bo also loved to try digging a hole next to the palm tree and sit there on a warm sunny day :)

Bo loved me so much, she'd let me do almost anything to her... like hold her snout... or her tail... which was pretty sweet

So many things have happened since you came in my life that I can't even begin to summarize it at all.

Thank you :)

You think you know, you have no idea

2011-01-21T12:25:00.002+08:00

I loved that line from Mtv Diary. It was one of those early reality-ish documentary type tv shows about celebs and how their lives are. It was pretty much a-day-in-the-life-of-(insert pop star's name here) and I liked how that at that time, they were showing us that being a celeb isn't that all as glam as we'd like it to be.

Which brings me to this article I read online today. What she might be hiding from you. I like to perceive myself as a private person, sharing what I only want to share, portraying the side I want people to see and obviously being someone I'm not.

I am not entire proud to say this, but I will admit I am guilty of six (out of the 10 points mentioned in the article) and I'm pretty sure many of you out there are too!

Seriously?

2011-01-19T16:18:00.002+08:00

I get very annoyed, when people ask me "So you guys are getting serious..." with some sort of self pride/doubt.

Scenario 1
I'm out with a group of old school mates one night and there was this one girl, we haven't met since we last left school (we were 17. We're now 29.)

So as usual we talked about what we were doing and who we're seeing and what our future plans are, so I told her that the puppy and I were planning on a migration.

And she smiles at me like she knows better and says "So you guys ARE serious..."

Scenario 2
This is my best friend, whom I've known since I was 13, and she knew the moment the puppy and I got together because she was there. We were talking about our CNY plans when she mentioned she's going over to her boyfriend's home town so I said "Wow... that's nice..." and she mentioned that it's not the first time that she's gone back.

So then I said "Yeah, I'll have to go over this year..." and she goes "OMG so you guys are serious!!!"

Seriously... WTF?!?!

It's been a while

2011-01-18T05:34:00.000+08:00

It really has been a while since I've dreamt of her.

This morning was no different. She was flirting with my man as usual and for once I actually confronted her in her face.

She shrugged it off - it was as though she doesn't care. I know I might be biased but I'm quite sure she doesn't care. I can't help feeling that way, not after everything.

Yeah, so I asked why does she have to do this? Doesn't she feel any remorse or pity or guilt? Doesn't she worry that karma will come and bite her back in the ass and do the same to her what she's doing to me? What did I ever do to her?

It was as if she didn't hear me or refused to hear me. All she did was stare as I rambled and smiled.

Dissatisfied, that was what I was.

I knew I would never get an answer out of her.

Maybe she doesn't know the answer herself...

Anyways, the dream scene changed... I was talking to this python who apparently was kinda getting ambushed by two other snakes on either side. Instead of attacking them, he looked at me sheepishly and just sank its teeth in my foot.

Weird night...

Jumble Sale!!!

2011-01-17T10:31:00.004+08:00

Hey peeps. Come join the SPCA jumble sale this Sunday January 23! There'll be lots to buy and it's all for a good cause!

Head on over to the SPCA Selangor at Jalan Kerja Air Lama, 68000 Ampang Jaya.

Click here for the website and here for a map on how to get there!!!

Is it just me?

2011-01-14T11:14:00.002+08:00

It's weird, well not really weird, really. It's just the way it is sometimes.

Beware rant post below.

Depending on your thoughts and openness to things, you will get what I mean and if you don't, I don't blame you. But feel free to comment. I'd like to hear what other people think.

I'm talking about the age old question "So when are you getting married?". I've oddly been asked that question by four people this month, and it's only the 14th.

Then the last person who asked the question said "Every other female around your age can't wait to get married. Are you even female? Plus, you've been dating for quite a while now, so don't be surprised if a 5th or 6th person asks you that same question again later..."

Note: It probably is just an Asian thing, but the moment you start dating someone for about at least 6 months, EVERYONE will start to ask when are you getting married. Some mean it as a joke but most people are just curious. I think it's some sort of gage to see how serious the both of you are.

So I told him the same thing I blogged about earlier referencing Johnny Depp about marriage which I really do agree with - and he calls me weird.

"Okay I'm weird. Then YOU define marriage and let's have a little debate."

"Well, marriage is more like a secure thing, you know? It's like, it doesn't matter how long you've been together, but when shit happens, everything ends and you're back at square one. So marriage is at least a more secure commitment, or so I feel."

Note: Most people I know have the same idea - get married so that your partner will not run away from you. Another idea - get pregnant so that the guy will marry you.

Do you see what kind of imbeciles I deal with on a daily basis? And I'm pretty sure a lot of other people I know will agree with him.

I've personally seen many family members and friends who have been together forever and get married, and they're like the most loving couple in the world that every time they come around, you just need the vomit bucket passed over.

But shit happens and now they're in limbo think about whether or not they should stay together for the sake of the marriage, for the sake of the children... but what happened for the sake of yourselves?

Call me selfish. But I don't believe in "securing" someone legally just so that if he/she wants to break up with me it's harder.

Again I will stress my point as I have in my earlier blogs - get married because you want to spend the rest of your life with the love of your life. DON'T effing get married just because everyone else is doing it, you want some sort of social status elevation, peer and family pressure because you'd be better of jumping off a cliff with the lemmings.

To me, if shit hits the ceiling - own up, clean up the mess and if you need to, just stand up and walk away.

Control Animal Homelessness!

2011-01-12T12:38:00.003+08:00

Tomorrow (13th Jan) at noon, PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) will be handing out leaflets dressed as giant condoms and holding heart-shaped signs to help Malaysians brush up on their ABCs - Animal Birth Control.

Join them and help spread the word. It's in front of Gloria Jeans on Bukit Bintang near the intersection.

I'd go if I could but well, obviously I can't. But it's something I campaign for too - responsible pet ownership. I think it's irresponsible to allow your pets to breed IF you don't have a backup plan for the babies. You know why? Because these little fellas are often abandoned at a vet's clinic, an animal shelter IN HOPE to get a good owner or even worse, left on the streets to fend for themselves.

Much as your pet may seem as 'human' as possible, they're still animals at the end of the day. Spaying or neutering not only prevents unnecessary baby animals but it's also healthier for your pet. Because after the procedure, they have a reduced risk of developing reproductive cancers AND they won't go around accidentally contracting some sort of animal STDs.

Laugh, I know it's funny, but it does happen and don't come crying when it does.

Prevention is better than cure.

For more info, check of PETA Asia Pacific.

Ice cream for lunch, anyone?

2011-01-11T17:48:00.002+08:00

Walls launched their new selection - Gold Series ice cream today at the Equatorial, Kuala Lumpur.

Concocted by three culinary experts from the Philippines, they created a gorgeous flavor each - Hazelnut Brownie, Chocolate Truffles and Berry Strawberry.

And it wasn't any ordinary launch... instead of the usual thingamajizz with launches, Walls came up with the ingenious idea of approaching Executive Chef Anthony Edington from The Chalet, Equatorial to come up with delicious dishes infused with the ice cream.

But of course there's the obligatory shot. (L-R) Guy from Walls (Can't remember his name sorry!!!); Hugo Verkuil of Unilever, Malaysia and Executive Chef Anthony Edington

And the results?

A full blown four-course meal!

(L-R) Mescun salad with dried fruits served with a Berry Strawberry vinaigrette, Australian rock melon soup with a Berry Strawberry emulsion and Chicken Mole (made with Chocolate Truffles)

On a side note, the chicken was done sous-vide and then pan-fried to get that gorgeous golden skin. To be honest, it was the first time I tried anything that was done sous-vide and I've gotta say, the title sounds a shit load fancier than anything. But it was nice and juicy on the inside.

Desserts (L-R) - Deep-fried Hazelnut Brownies ice cream dusted with cocoa powder, Chocolate Truffles ice cream sandwich dipped in chocolate and Berry Strawberry Tuile with cream anglaise.

My verdict?

It was okay. I have to say I am much pickier when it comes to ice cream and while the creativity did intrigue me, taste wise, the food wasn't anything much to shout about.

But then again, that's just me. Go try it for yourself at the Equatorial.

Images all courtesy of Walls.

Split personalities

2011-01-09T16:09:00.003+08:00

Puppy and I were out grocery shopping when I saw a HUGE tub of miso paste and picked it up. In my defense, I've never seen such a huge tub before and I was kinda excited thinking of all the stuff I can cook with it.

He smirked while I was in my little reverie.

"What?" I said defensively.

"Nothing, it's just that when you see something Japanese, you go 'Uwaaaa' exactly like a Japanese... but when you see Chinese stuff, you go 'Wah!' like a Chinese... and I thought that was pretty interesting..."

Getting it off!

2011-01-08T19:09:00.000+08:00

Puppy got his stitches off! But the damn doctor didn't do a good job suturing him up. Bleh. But it's okay, it's a war scar under his chin... it's not that all visible :)

I'm just glad that he's got his appetite back, and is back on solid food because I am SO bloody tired of making mushy food all week long!

疲れちゃった

2011-01-06T16:51:00.005+08:00

I'm tired....

of doing this on my own

of trying to stay calm

of being the stronger one

of rushing from home to work and from work back home

of putting on Mary-Fucking-Sunshine face 24/7

I want my life back... I know it's not fair to be whining at this point in time... and technically it's only been six days...

Six days of living with the puppy but not really having the puppy is torture

Six days of watching him suffer in silence is not my cup of tea

Six days of staying cheerful and supportive even though I'm worried is taking a toll

I know he doesn't want to have to depend on me for a lot of things, but it's just that circumstances won't allow him to do quite a bit of stuff on his own.

But seriously, it's not like you're completely bedridden...

I'm just tired of all this... I want my life back...

I want my puppy back

Attempt 2 - Pureed food

2011-01-03T21:16:00.000+08:00

Today's menu was much more of a success! I made meatballs with a roasted tomato & garlic soup.

Of course for the puppy, everything was whizzed up, and you know what the best part is? He loved it and finished it all up!

I'm so glad that he's starting to get back his appetite.

I'm gonna make more stuff for him to eat so that he can regain more strength and heal faster!!! :)

Attempt 1 - Pureed food

2011-01-02T22:09:00.002+08:00

Since the pup's got six stitches and can barely move his jaw, it's baby food time.

I know this looks kinda disgusting, but it tastes pretty good. I made a veggie soup with a chicken broth base. There are potatoes, carrots, onions, broccoli and celery which I mashed up.

Then I took the chicken pieces and whizzed them up in a blender with a dash of rice porridge (didn't take a pic though) so it's a wholesome meal with meat, carbs and veg!

What's the worst that can happen?

2011-01-01T23:41:00.001+08:00

Happy New Year peeps.

Remember when I asked the pup what's the worst that could happen after our neverending fevers?

CAUTION: NOT FOR THE FAINT-HEARTED. IMAGE OF FLESH WOUND AHEAD. PROCEED AT YOUR OWN RISK ONLY

Don't say I didn't warn you. I know some people who cannot look at wounds... they get all disgusted, nauseated, weak in the knees, feel faint or all of the above.

I always kinda knew that he had a blood pressure problem, but it was today that I realized how severe it was.

The pup was having a bit of a confrontation with our housemate. Long story cut short - he got drunk on NYE, came home kicking up a fuss while his friend was trying to get him to just go back to the bedroom. Cops came in the end to arrest him for being a public nuisance. Pup wanted to just tell him off - drink all you want, please don't make a mess in my house... and come home drunk stealing my ciggies.

I was napping at that point and I heard a loud crash. Thirty seconds later, I heard a bunch of frantic knocks on my bedroom door and a voice "Can you please come out? He's fainted..."

I was pretty drowsy at that time and just nodded.

I walked into the bathroom to freshen up and I heard the pup's voice in the next room. He was going on about "Yeah I'm alright, just that I've been battling a fever so I'm not feeling very well..."

So I thought he was alright.

Next thing I know, I see him standing at our room door looking very dazed. His hand was cupping his chin slightly and he mumbled "Hun... I fainted and hit the floor..."

I saw blood on his chin and ran to get some tissues to help.

He walked towards the wall and just slowly sank to the floor mumbling "I think I'm feeling faint again."

That's when I got a clear look of his wound - a 2"x1" gash that split his chin.

I flipped out.

Thank goodness my first instinct was to run to the kitchen to get a ziplock bag full of ice for him.

He was unstable and still quite pale. I had no choice, I knew I couldn't handle this on my own. The two guys were there, but I knew it was my responsibility. They've caused enough trouble (on my end, or so I felt) and I really didn't want them involved any more. I called an ambulance.

It was the first time in about 10 years or so that I carried out a full conversation in Malay.

Took them 20 minutes to get here and pick him up.

I told the pup that I'll meet him there and they wheeled him out on a gurney.

I ran downstairs to get into my car and saw the ambulance pulling out from the porch and on its way.

That's when I broke down. I don't think I have ever been this scared in my entire life. I was hyperventilating and tears just kept falling down. It lasted a good half hour for me to compose myself.

I finally got to the hospital (without getting lost, thank goodness) and took me 15 minutes to figure out the car parking system, another 10 minutes to figure out where to go and another 15 minutes to find him.

Maybe I was nervous. Maybe I was just too irrational at that point but seriously... these people need to learn how to lay hospital plans out properly! Geez!!!

Anyways, I finally found him. Sitting forlornly in a wheel chair inside the consultation hall. Sat with him throughout the entire procedure.

I took another pic of his wound while waiting for the stitching doctor. It's so scary.

1. Registration and waiting for his turn - 30mins
2. Doctor to assess what's wrong and to prescribe a medical solution - 20 mins
3. Tetanus jab - 2 mins
4. Nurse to send him to get his stitches - never happened.
5. Me to wheel him to get his stitches - 5 mins (it was a very winding maze inside)
6. Waiting to get his stitches - 10 mins (turns out the doc wasn't in - yet!)
7. Getting his stitches done - 20 mins
8. Getting his antibiotics & pain killers - 20 mins (because after you give the pharmacist the prescription, you have to walk all the way back to the registration area to pay... and then all the way back again to get the meds)

We finally got home at about 9pm.

So yeah, lesson learned today is... to keep my bloody mouth shut!

Bye bye 2010

2010-12-31T23:52:00.000+08:00

It's been a great year... and I'm riding the year end out with a non-stop light fever...

W00t!

I've even infected the puppy with it!

Double w00t! :P

Well, as I told him earlier in the day, what's the worst that can happen?

We'll just wait for the fireworks

Happy New Year y'all!!!

What's your dream car?

2010-12-29T17:33:00.005+08:00

I had a conversation with someone today and hearing that she's quite the gearhead, I asked her what her dream car was...

She casually said "LP640 Versace Edition." and flashed me a wink.

See... ask any other regular girl and I believe you'll be faced with a lot of... more cosmetic choices instead of performance.

Personally, I would've chosen a Reventon (but mostly because I like the name... I'm not really a Lamborghini fan to begin with)

Now, the beauty of the LP640 Versace Edition is that there are only 20 in the world. First revealed at the Paris 2006 Motor Show, these little babies feature a two-tone black and white trim with custom Versace leather on the interior and of course let's not forget the Gianni Versace logo :)

So yeah, it's a powerful car PLUS it looks sexy!

So that got me thinking, what is my dream car?

I've listed down three.

1. Mazda Miata aka MX-5

This little baby is one of the world's best selling roadsters, and can you blame it? Look at how sleek and HAPPY it is!

It's a front engine, rear wheel drive with a lightweight concept makes handling a dream and superb for drifting.

This version I have here is the MX-5 Black and Matte Special Edition in celebration of the Miata's 20th anniversary of being in the French Market.

2. Infiniti G35

This is my second choice of a dream car. I know, there are newer versions but this is the one that I think is sleekest. Also a front engine, rear view drive... this serves more as a family/daily car that I'd like to drive around. And yes, the coupe not the sedan.

3. TVR Chimaera

Last but not least, I had recently discovered the joy of the TVRs... and the Chimaera in particular. As you can see my taste in cars are very similar in terms of looks as well as performance and handling. And unfortunately discontinued :P

bling bling

2010-12-26T19:36:00.003+08:00

So another cousin broke the news, her boyfriend popped the question during the Christmas holidays...

So I have two weddings to attend next year... two who btw are younger than me :P no, no that's not resentment or bitterness, just a dash of disbelief, really...

But do I wish it was my turn? Oh of course... which girl doesn't?

When it's my turn, it won't be a big do. Much as I am a romantic, a big hoo-hah is just too much work and too much effort for a party - yes, P-A-R-T-Y. You heard right. Because to me, it's the marriage... not the wedding.

For all you know, I might just have a super simple ceremony with immediate family only - then break the news to the rest.

Until then... I'll just keep focusing on the big picture :) we've got A LOT ahead of us!

Christmas Eve Dinner

2010-12-25T00:41:00.000+08:00

Went over to the puppy's for Christmas Eve dinner and same as every year, I head over there in the arvo to help out

So the bunny and big bro toiled over peeling, chopping, slicing and dicing......

The extra tough pumpkin that took me forever to slice.... even Mr Kitchen man took his tools off to a corner to hide!

Anyways, as I was saying, while we were toiling away, the puppy was doing this O_o

(Clockwise Top L-R: Stuffed turkey with bacon strips, honey glazed ham with pineapples, pigs in a blanket and oven roasted brussel sprouts with beets)

The whole works. A table for fourteen!

Someone picked this up and said 'OMG you have a Jewish drink???'

Anne who showed us a magic trick earlier decided to test out our IQs. Needless to say, we ALL failed miserably :P

And right after that.... SCRABBLE time!!! iStyle :P

Look at the amount of Apple products these people have

Even the dogs were bloody content after the whole meal!

Merry Christmas everybody!!!

Shepherd's Pie : FAIL! Christmas Party : HELL YEAH!!!!

2010-12-21T21:06:00.008+08:00

Had the team Christmas lunch at Delicious, 1 Utama today. Everyone was going with the pastas and I thought, okay let's see how their Shepherd's Pie fares...

FAIL.

1. The mash potato top with cheese was soft and sticky.
2. The meat inside was all soupy.
3. It was a tad over cooked.

Bleh

On the other hand... it was a pretty good lunch. My editor had this Q&A sesh (trivia about the magazine) and if you got them right, you'll score some pretty cool gifts!

Rachel (Advertising Manager) scored the first gift - OPI Bring on the bling laquer with matching 2-in-1 lip gloss

Janice (Sales & Marketing Executive) got Yves Rocher Olive Oil cream

Serena (Sub-editor) got a combo pack with La Mer!!! SO NOT FAIR *hmmph*

This is my combo pack of Anna Sui, Sothys, GA, and Body Shop cosmetics :)

Janice & I teamed up to get this OPI Burlesque set... w00t! I took the two red-ish ones because she didn't like them...

And a Chanel blush...

I want to be a living work of art...

2010-12-20T16:13:00.004+08:00

Okay see... working in a women's magazine has definitely got its perks! First of all, not only do I get free products (fine, most of the time they're samples, but still....); reading gossip online is "research" and last but not least, I LOVE DRESSES!!!

Look at these Marchesa gowns!!! *swoon*

Baby Cherrie

2010-12-18T16:10:00.002+08:00

Look how grown up she looks now! I still can't believe that my cousin Nick has a kid... and you know what's so funny about that? She looks EXACTLY like him as a baby!

Happy birthday Starbucks!!!

2010-12-17T10:49:00.001+08:00

In conjunction with their 12th anniversary, and as a token Starbucks gave away free cups of freshly brewed coffee.

There was also this little donation bag at the cashier - for the life of me I can't remember what it was for... but since I was getting a free cup of coffee... might as well do some charity :)