Life is drawing without an eraser

Resolution for Feb

2012-01-29T23:34:00.003+08:00

Time to go to bed and get ready for work tomorrow. Starting anew again tomorrow after the long holiday .. but before that, I need to write down some resolution down.

Holidays made me eat and I do let myself indulge because it's the festive season. Time to tighten the belt.

a. burn at least 300 calories everytime I step into the gym (will increase)

b. no food shall pass lips after 9 pm except for fruits, liquid or yogurt

c. reduce rice intake to 5 spoonful per meal (will decrease)

d. no carbonated or sweet drinks - only sips to quench thirst if no water available

e. no sweets except breath mints for breath freshing purposes (emergency)

f. 3 meals a day is a must

g. opt for clear soup dishes if possible instead of fried oily ones

I put this up on my blog to empower myself. I can do it. Right after Chinese New Year.

Two years later

2012-01-25T10:00:00.006+08:00

photo credit

Dear po po,

2 years ago you passed away due to the long battle with lungs cancer. I remembered that call father received right after midnight. Two words "What time?" confirmed the bad news. You have left us.

The last time we saw you well, alive and still sitting was the September before. I remembered walking down the stairs of your house and kept glancing back at you smiling and sitting in your rattan chair .. what if .. what if this was the last time I see you .. silly me, you'll see her during new year as usual .. somewhere in my mind pffed me.

I just had to take a final glance and I was mentally prepared for the worst. I remembered you used to visit us annually last time and there was once, I didn't want to let you go home I kept lugging your bag upstairs. That was funny.

You used to give us some odds and ends .. some handphone string thingy and some mechanical pencil. The memory that stuck with me was when you took me out to buy the lemon candy - now I call it the po po sweet.

I remembered two years ago, I accepted your passing quite gracefully - in fact I was quite calm. It was not until the final day when we had to send you away. I couldn't take it - I broke down. I chose to sit alone in the bus to cry until my eyes were red. I could bluff myself you are there but I couldn't keep the lie anymore.

There are some things I kept around even though it might seem silly. I bought a new water bottle from Popular that trip when we last saw you and I'm still using it. Normally I would be trading water bottle for a new one - at least 3 per year but this time, everytime I wanted to get a new one, it's so silly but I thought of you. I really thought of the connection made between the purchase of the water bottle and the last trip we saw you.

That morning before we sent you away, one of the song that got me crying harder was played. I did not know the title but I froze when I heard of it on radio and during a trip to the supermarket. Sooner or later, I found out the song title :- Xin bu liao qing.

Apparently it's quite popular and everytime I hear it, I thought of you. I thought of that morning. That's why you don't see me singing that song, I just hummed cause I'm taken back by the memory. I don't join others to sing this song because it hurt just a little. I don't even have the song with me because I think if I randomly hear it anywhere, it's more special that way.

You don't need to worry about me - I'm fine. I know you passed without worrying about me. I just saw everyone two days ago. Everyone is fine. The family kept expanding.

I love you po po. Thank you for being my po po for 22 years.

Much love,

One of your eldest granddaughter

Fire of prosperity

2012-01-23T00:05:00.000+08:00

photo credit

Happy Chinese New Year! Gong Xi Fa Cai!

*insert strings of auspicious words here*

The year of the dragon has arrived and we have to say goodbye to the year of the rabbit which is my year which also means I'm gonna be in my mid 20's this year. *oh no*

I'm probably out catching fireworks or playing Monopoly write now so this was written before hand to wish all a fruitful year ahead of happiness, health and wealth.

If you're mahjong-ing , I wish you win big big!

If you're drinking, don't drink too much!

If you're getting ang pows, I wish you get more!

I'm gonna eat till I pop a button then work my ass out in the gym once the festive season is over.

Dong dong chiang!!

2012-01-18T22:52:00.002+08:00

You do not mess with the traditional songs, your songs are not what it is about, I do not want my kids to listen to hip hop versions and assume they are the CNY songs. Yesh, I love dong dong chiang song. DONG DONG CHIANG!!!!

Same goes for any tradition. No black clothes during the first two days, no sweeping the floor etc. Although some are like lau ya (old fashioned), I followed cause it's tradition. It's something I want my kids and grandkids to follow. It's something my grandparents, parents followed.

It upsets me when my generation tries to be funny with tradition. Everything has it's own reasons. You do not simply change an ang pow color to purple or brown or blue. Speaking of which, the lion dance had always been my pride and joy.

I love lion dances, I love their fluttering eyes and their cute wiggly butts. I love the cymbals and the drums, no matter how deafening they are. My eyes gets misty when I watched them performed but that's because I'm so proud of my culture. I love how committed the boys are to their performance, I love what the dance represents and I love how they moved with the music.

I can accept a lot of things but a change of culture and tradition is something I won't compromise. No, I will not go with the flow and embrace today's mix just because it's modern. I'm up for tries and creativity but once it gets out of control and dominant, I can't shut up. Lose our culture, lose our identity.

Just to divert the topic a little, I chose Jay's music above others is also because of the culture factor. His songs were the first that managed to capture my ears with the traditional music feel, the pipa and the er hu were the ones which made me listened with joy.

That's why Fa ru xue up to now, 7 years later is still my favorite song.

Ending the post in a lighter note, happy birthday Jie Lun.

Dragon dinner

2012-01-13T23:27:00.001+08:00

Location : Dragon City Restaurant
Objective : Chapter dinner

Since last year, I had registered myself to go for chapter 1's annual dinner. I went for it last year and enjoyed myself so I decided to go again. I was looking forward to have a good time with my friends and possibly to get to know others better.

Took a glass of red wine and later passed it to brother. Dinner started approximately by 8 and it was the typical Chinese restaurant dinner. Before dinner, I managed to greet and chit chat with some friends - the first one I saw was Elisa.

Appetizer. Toss toss. Cham cham. Eat eat.

I was running between meals to accommodate the sister and hanging out with my friends. In between, we had performance by talented uncles and aunties.

Prawns. Udang. Brother ate more on my behalf.

We even had chicken dance in the middle of dinner. Made everyone laughed and relaxed a little bit more before the next dish was served.

Presents for exchange at the end of the night. Everyone brought one to exchange for one to take home.

It's duck. I don't eat duck.

I snapped every dish that came out much to the aunties amusement. They smiled when I so un paisehly brought my camera forward each time a dish appeared in the middle.

At the end of the night, we helped to distribute the presents to everyone. Dinner could have been better but it was fun to see my friends again.

Till we meet again after New Year.

Double layer surprise

2012-01-11T23:39:00.002+08:00

Location : Manhattan Fish Market

Objective : Mira and (surprise!) Su's birthday

Since the first week of January, we been talking about how to celebrate our kakak's birthday. At the same time, our adik is also having her birthday at the end of the month.

Just like last month, we thought of combining both of their birthdays together.

Look at our Whatsapp conversation - planning their birthdays

Walking towards dinner destination

We told Mira about a short dinner for her birthday but we were indecisive about where to eat but in the end we settled for ..

Manhattan Fish Market ..

After confirming that San has something to eat, we settled for dinner. Everyone came except for Hari and Melvin, last month's birthday boys.

8 hungry mouth to feed

We took 10 minutes to decide what to have for dinner. In the end, my order came last. I was fairly upset because I was hungry. Dinner was quiet but kakak and adik dunno that we have surprise in our bags.

Our yee shang ordered specially to toss - with fork

After dinner, the cake came out. Kakak Mira expected the cake but adik Su did not expect there would be another one just for her. She thought we were out to celebrate Mira's birthday.

Two little round cakes for both of them

That was their first surprise. They looked excited but next it was our turn to be excited as the trick candles came out.

Spent the next 3 minutes in amusement to see them trying to blow the flame. Darn funny.

Wait, the night is still young and we have one more surprise on the way.

Happy girls with their presents.

One present is more expensive than the other, Jos mentioned. We kid. Both are equally given with love and sincerity.

We did not stay up late as it is still a work day tomorrow but this is the beginning of another year - another year of planning and cracking our head to surprise each other for their birthdays.

An inch taller

2012-01-04T19:04:00.001+08:00

I'll start 2012 with a self discovery post. In 2011, my facebook had been loaded with news and photos of my old schoolmates and acquaintances getting married, engaged, preggers, kids and another one on the way. Several times I hit the panic button. Suddenly I felt like everyone grew up but me. I’m still me – I haven’t changed. I felt old.

Then again, I have friends who are in their late 20’s / early 30’s who are still single and it made me felt younger. I felt better but also confused.

If you asked a 12 years old me, how would I describe and picture myself at 25? 12 years old me would say :- Yer, so old. Must be married la. If not married, you’re doomed.

Without realizing it, age has caught up with me and I’m now the “old” lady 12 years old Nsync craze me mentioned. I’m always the victim of peer pressure and I would make a big fuss when I was growing up. I want the Astro channels, a credit card and a phone. I held a grudge (a tiny one) towards my parents for not getting me what I want.

Looking back, it’s kind of stupid. I now have Astro to watch, two cards and a smart phone. It felt better knowing it came from my own pocket cause I earned it. *rowing back to the topic* Now a man is not something I can get by throwing tantrum, in fact I think they might stay away further *cringe*

After chatting with a friend and telling her my point of view, I came to realize I had indeed made peace with this not-having-a-husband-yet syndrome of mine. Do I want to be married now? As in, NOW. No, definitely no. I have a little more growing up to do before I can be someone’s Mrs.

Marriage is a huge step. Yanked away from my family when I had grown up in a small community close to my uncle and aunt. Being thrown into another family. CNY will never be the same again. The future yet to be known. *too much drama watching* but yeah, you get what I mean. It’s a huge commitment and I’m not ready for it – mentally. No one can frown and tell me I’m wrong cause you’re not me.

Better to be sure and get the right guy than to marry one for the sake of marrying and then suffer the consequences for the rest of my life. The important thing is – I have to be happy. Happiness is from within, not given by someone else. Happiness is something I must own, not depending on a guy or a house or a car.

Sure, I love my material things but they are temporary happiness. Am I happy with my life – what I’m doing, what values am I presenting to the people around me, am I doing anything good for the society, am I disgracing my family?

Just like the solar system, my life is supposed to be the core – the center – the sun and everything else the planets that circle around me. No guy is to take the place of the sun. Why do I keep pressing on this?

Cause I used to think that if I have a man, I WILL be happy. If I don’t, I’m a loser. Plus, I’ve always been a hopeless romantic and it’s really a hopelessly hopeless romantic. I wanted a guy who can cook for me, to sing and strum the guitar under my window, give me roses and teddies, huge diamond ring, buff body etc. I continued that fantasy, that expectation until my late teens.

Then I grew up and those fantasies become crap. I realized those are superficial crap that I wanted. A good husband, a great father and open to the idea of charity and adopting pets man would be enough. I don’t need teddies or flowers or diamond ring *ok la, I want also la.. you can buy ;) *

No one can be sure of what will happen to my relationship now and few years later. Is he the one? Yet to tell. Will I be married? I dunno. When? When I’m ready but the most important part – I have to be happy.

I felt like I had been talking to myself but this is what a blog is for right? Jot down bits of thoughts. I’m going around in circles – beating the bushes. Conclusion – I don’t think I will hit the panic button this year. I’m happy for my friends but it’s not my time yet. When it is, I will know. Single or double, it doesn’t matter as long as I live my life with integrity filled with values.

12 years old me, you thought you were gonna marry JC Chasez. That didn’t happen. Therefore, I’m not doomed either.

Starting the new year

2012-01-02T20:19:00.000+08:00

Every year on New Year's, I am always home to celebrate with the family. I wanted to organize a pizza party but during the year end, some of us were feeling unwell so I decided to tone it down. Just organized a little makan makan.

Kuih bahulu

Fish cakes

Maggi instant noodle

Cocktail sausages

Fish balls

After midnight, the fireworks went off and we rushed to the street but it was too far to spot a proper display. I was not ready for bed yet so we had our monopoly session up to nearly 3 am.

That's how I spent my new year's. Staying in and having fun. How was yours?

2012 resolutions

2011-12-31T23:59:00.003+08:00

It's the season again - time to review the resolutions made in 2011 and revise them for 2012.

2011 resolutions :-

~~1. Pick up from where I slack in May. Aim lower. Drop 3 kg this year. Aiming too high causes disappointment and could be a reason to break the spirit.~~

Okay, did not lose 3 kg but I am taking a step towards fitness. 2012 - it's not about the weight loss , it's about how fitness. I'll be okay with my weight if I do get fitter.

~~2. Brush up on Cantonese instead. Last year I can't speak at all until end of the year. I want to be able to converse and hold a decent conversation this year.~~

Slight improvement here. Thanks to him partly as my motivation, I am able to hold a short decent conversation with strangers. Looking forward to be able to hold a whole paragraph in 2012.

~~3. Seriously get involved in kosen rufu activities again. Faith is the fundamental of life. I need to get out there again. Work should not be an obstacle but a push towards the right direction.~~
Could be improve further.

~~4. Take initiative to carry my camera around more. Snap more photos. I'm only young once. I should record and store precious memories down instead of letting them just slipped away.~~
I snapped more but only because of my new Aria. 2012 - more photos of me.

5. A page from my colleague's principle. Gossip none or less. Things that do not concern me emotionally or physically and related to other shall not be spread. Unless I'm affected and needed advice on it. Also, do not grudge .. for too long. Anger is a tiring emotion. It suck the life out of ya.
I think I failed this one.

~~6. Keep my diary and planner. I suck in keeping both but I want to do so this year.~~

Failed terribly.

2012 - finding the balance between everything.

+ Work - bringing improvement to my responsibilities

+ Kosen rufu - taking charge as a leader and attending meetings

+ Relationship - spending quality time and learning more about each other

+ Fitness - heading to the gym as much as possible

+ Social - friends, colleagues, time for laughter and bonding

I have some fundamental darkness to fight and I have to do it. I have to fight against the demon inside of me. Whether the world is going to end or not, we still have to live daily and not cower in fear.

A list of items I don't need to buy in 2012.

* Camera

* Phone

Things I cannot guarantee I won't buy

* Books.

* Board games

* Clothes

Happy New Year everyone!

The special place

2011-12-29T14:04:00.006+08:00

Happy birthday to you ~~

You are officially a year older than me today. Had it been three days more, we would be the same age. I know we have our ups and downs throughout the year. I know sometimes you have to be extra patient with me and you opened your ears to all my rant but I felt comfortable knowing I can confide in you anytime.

I hope you enjoy your present. I saw it and I thought of you - knowing you will be the one to appreciate it - I hope.

I look forward to our future and see what will unfold.

"i don't drink coffee"

Annual dinner

2011-12-23T23:30:00.006+08:00

Location : Pasta Zanmai

Objective : Dinner 2011

I have a fun bunch of colleagues who is almost up for anything non dangerous. When I suggested a dinner for us, everyone got on board. Well, almost all who is available.

pouring our ice lemon tea

Half of us were off for the rest of the year - finishing up our time offs or letting it burn. I was finishing up my final half day of 2011 and met up with the other 5 of them. It was my first time dining in Pasta Zanmai but we had fun.

I tasted edamame beans for the first time. We talked and laughed as we talked about the office and the funny encounters we had during the whole year. We talked about our upcoming Singapore trip and our future social events after work.

We took photos and enjoyed our food. I was super hungry at first and super full afterwards.

Here's to the coming year and more gatherings. May we always have fun.

Singing the blues away

2011-12-20T14:42:00.006+08:00

Location : Sunway Giza

Objective : Karaoke session

After the excitement and glamour of Jenny's wedding, we traded our dresses for a thinking cap. Not that it helped much cause we didn't really study much. I did a lot of notes writing but not much of the revising. I even thought of burning my notes and drinking them.

So anyways, we went through the elementary exam with pretty much success - as in none of us broke down and we finished the paper. Exam aside, we went for lunch and laughed about the funny things yesterday. A little tired - a little excited.

drinks were meh-ish

Rested because I woke up early for the past two days before we went off for our long awaited karaoke session. Reservation had been made three months ago

. I do things early especially when it comes to reservation. My motto is the earlier, the better.

Between lunch and going to Sunway Giza, me and ah po Ai laid at Eunice jie's bed and laughed at silly random names people give their children. Reached Teo Heng with 10 minutes to spare.

3 hours of singing and croaking out our fave tunes - in various languages, finally the 7 of us get to enjoy ourselves after the morning exam. The room we got in Teo Heng was kind of small though - barely fit our butts with no space to move or stretch.

the after karaoke mess

After karaoke, we left Elisa for dinner and joined her later for our youth day celebration meeting. That night meeting inspired me and I made a new resolution for the night - for the new year. That's for the EOY blog post.

RM 0.00 :)

December wedding

2011-12-19T13:36:00.008+08:00

The long awaited wedding of the year has finally arrived. Our jie jie is getting married. I was invited to be one of her ji mui. What does a ji mui do? This is my first time being a ji mui and I'm inexperienced.

The theme color for this wedding is purple and coincidentally we put on the darker tone of purple. In the end, we headed to the bride's place to have breakfast and to have a last briefing of the trouble we're going to put the groom through.

the bride can't leave the house without her footwear, no?

I heard terrible stories of bananas tied around the crotch and the brothers had to eat them up. Nah, we want to get them married so.

After pretty much shameless self whoring, getting some breakfast and admiring Jenny's bridal beauty the guys troop came and we mildly teased and tormented them before letting the couple reunite.

The tea ceremony went on and I got teary mind. I cannot imagine being married out and leaving the family. Symbolically leaving the family - being absorbed into another.

Anyways, moving on .. we had the brothers to drive us to the groom's place as there are limited parking. Being a ji mui means following where the bride goes and since she went to the groom's place for his side of family for the tea ceremony.

After that, we went to another house for the wedding ceremony. Prayers and the exchange of the wedding rings. That was the end for the morning part.

Rest for a while before I got ready for the wedding dinner. Traded my purple dress for a gray one. Got there early to join the other ji mui to become an usheress. Pointing guests to their seats.

did Jenny picked 38 (sampat) for our table? hehe

When it was dinner time, our table of ji mui and lovely young ladies attacked the first three dishes very unlady like. It was fun to meet old friends and reconnect during the wedding. At the end of the night, we took turns to take a photo with the beautiful bride who is now a wife.

Congratulations to the newlyweds and thank you Jenny for letting me be a part of your special day! :)

December candles

2011-12-14T22:00:00.002+08:00

It's always been a tradition for us in the office to celebrate our little group's birthday. Here's Jos's birthday, San's birthday, Daniel's birthday, Brian's birthday and mine.

I forgot to blog about Nabil's and we missed out the other two girls birthday this year but 2012 is upon us.

taken from inside the box

Today we combined a celebration for two December babies. Since it's a combination of two people, we have lunch and a cake to celebrate both Hari and Melvin's birthday - both birthdays being in the beginning and the end of the month.

First, a lunch at Thai restaurant where we eat in an awkward circle mumbling appreciation of the food and taking in the surroundings. After lunch, a chocolate cake appears with tiny saucers and then awkward whispering of the birthday song to avoid attracting the attention of other people.

Here's to a series of more upscale birthdays in 2012. May we find better ways to keep secrets and new ways to surprise each other.

Happy super early birthday

2011-12-07T23:19:00.003+08:00

Did you know ah po's birthday is at the end of December? With us, it came 20 days earlier.

Happy 23th birthday ah po. You will forever be my ah po.

Zzz

2011-12-07T07:12:00.001+08:00

sorry had been on hiatus for so long. will back track and have more stuff up cause December will be crazy. had not been on a proper laptop and my blog app has been a bitch and refuse to update my post.

so now I'm using good old phone browser. update soon!

Baby green

2011-12-04T22:30:00.001+08:00

Location : Around KL
Objective : Walking around

Cousin Eve took me on a wild goose ride. I thought we were going for clothes hunting, she thought I wanted to go toy hunting.

Walking around the KL Petaling Street area was crazy. I couldn't resist and bought a beautiful baby dragon. He is so adorable.

We walked to Times Square to have a cup of Chatime.

Pointless blog entry - just to let you know I have a green dragon.

A student again

2011-11-28T20:05:00.004+08:00

Our elementary Soka exam was fast approaching and very much like a student, we did not start studying and procrastinate like crazy so when we had a day off we organized our own little study group.

lopsided chocolate

Elisa and Nick couldn't come so it was only me and ah po at our fave meeting place where there's always food downstairs in case we get study hunger.

We sat there from 12:30 pm until the evening. Time passed quite fast when we're studying and taking notes .. oh plus some chit chat in between .. you know la how girls are.

We went around the night market to search for dinner and to look around. I found his present! Its quite rare to find them nowadays.

I'm not ready for exam yet! There's still so much to study!! *study mode activated*

The first music note [MyDeal]

2011-11-19T23:05:00.004+08:00

Location : Red Box, Gardens
Objective : Sing karaoke

My colleagues and I were looking for an activity to do together out of work. Turns out we like singing or so it seems.

We bought the karaoke coupon from Dealmates for 4 people. Any outlet would do but we picked The Gardens because I also personally haven't visited this outlet before.

Early booking because I'm kiasu like that. Later no time slot how?

We began with a Disney song and ended with a Disney song. We sang and screamed and sipped all the way. My throat was scratchy in the end.

How much we paid for this deal?

3 hours of karaoke + 4 drinks + 1 tidbit for 2 pax = RM 48

I've always been a fan of Red Box and used to sing a lot during student slot.

Worth it for all the fun and our first sing k experience. There will be more to come, right??

After the karaoke session, Mira part ways with us as the rest of us continued our night with Happy Feet 2.

*no spoiler for anyone*

At the end of the night, the three of us made a wrong turn and got lost - which was funny and terrifying at the same time.

11.11.11.11.11.11

2011-11-11T23:51:00.002+08:00

I thought today was just an ordinary day .. it did not matter to me 11.11.11 or whatever date it was cause I was obviously not getting married or anything significant like that.

It was a Friday, I need to get to work and the only woo pee doop was the weekend was looming near.

Boy, was I wrong.

At 11.11.11 pm, on 11.11.11 I received an unexpected surprise - a nice one which sent my heart racing and my tongue numb.

Wow, 11.11.11 became an important date indeed.

The calendar turns

2011-10-31T17:50:00.002+08:00

Felt obliged to end this month with a post since I been nearly MIA for the whole month.

To say I been freaking busy would be an overstatement but to say I'm busy, yes that's true.

My whole life now revolves around the family, work, him, meetings and duties, fitness and occasionally my social life.

There are some stuff I wanna get off my chest and there are certain little life dilemma apple or orange to figure out.

May November be a month to further blossom.

Happy Halloween everybody!

A glowing challenge

2011-10-26T22:00:00.000+08:00

This 49 pieces of glow in the dark kangaroo took the effort of the whole family and the whole evening to complete. Whew.

The sense of accomplishment after it's done though was good.

Pizza party version 2.0

2011-10-23T20:46:00.000+08:00

This is such an outdated post. Last month during our colleague Daniel's birthday. The tradition continues like the usual as we did for the others.

Tried the pizza trick again and almost pulled it off but he saw the whole bunch walking in the secret room.

We ate and drank in an awkward circle... like usual. It's our own celebration trademark.

Time to plan the next birthday surprise.

posted from Bloggeroid

You're worth the fight

2011-10-22T14:36:00.004+08:00

You know those movies where two people walked past each other separated by something without knowing about the other's presence?

I had that two days ago. I waited and waited and waited for him.

None of us called each other.

55 minutes I waited for him. I waited. Waiting ..

When we finally managed to get online, I was on defense cause I assume he didn't care about me. Why didn't you come find me??

Turns out he was waiting for me too where he didn't have to. He didn't know that.

My heart melted but my ego was still up. I just want to find fault somehow to let it out, to let him know how upset I was.

Until, I saw this :-

A boy was born to a couple after eleven years of marriage. They were a loving couple and the boy was the apple of their eyes. When the boy was around two years old, one morning the husband saw a medicine bottle open. He was late for work so he asked the wife to cap the bottle and keep it in the cupboard. The mother, preoccupied in the kitchen, totally forgot the matter.

The boy saw the bottle and playfully went to the bottle and, fascinated with its color, drank it all. It happened to be a poisonous medicine meant for adults in small dosages. When the child collapsed, the mother hurried him to the hospital, where he died. The mother was stunned. She was terrified how to face her husband.

When the distraught father came to the hospital and saw the dead child, he looked at his wife and uttered just four words.

What do you think were the four words?

The husband just said "I Love You Darling"

The husband's totally unexpected reaction is proactive behavior. The child is dead. He can never be brought back to life. There is no point in finding fault with the mother. Besides, if only he have taken time to keep the bottle away, this will not have happened. No
point in attaching blame. She had also lost her only child. What she needed at that moment was consolation and sympathy from the husband. That is what he gave her.

Sometimes we spend time asking who is responsible or who to blame, whether in a relationship, in a job or with the people we know. We miss out some warmth in human relationship in giving each other support. After all, shouldn't forgiving someone we love be the easiest thing in the world to do? Treasure what you have. Don't multiply pain, anguish and suffering by holding on to forgiveness.

If everyone can look at life with this kind of perspective, there would be much fewer problems in the world.

Take off all your envies, jealousies, unwillingness to forgive, selfishness, and fears and you will find things are actually not as difficult as you think.

Immediately my mind changed. It didn't matter how long I waited, he waited too. He's not faulting me for it. Why should I? My anger and ego evaporated. No point finding fault in the past and cause tension between us.

I wanted to cuddle him and make sure he knows how much I appreciated his concern. When we met in front of our friends, he looked at me and gave me that special smile and I smiled before I looked away.

My mind and heart made a decision together " Don't let him go so easily"

Western lunch

2011-10-19T20:40:00.000+08:00

Location : Pizzaria

Objective : Brian's birthday

We always try to celebrate everyone's birthday among our gang in the office.

So when it was Brian's birthday, we decided to head out to the nearest western place we can find.

There were 8 of us and we shared two pizzas and two plates of pasta.

One pasta was vegetarian and one pizza was just cheese so that San could enjoy the same.

Half of us were lost however trying to find the place but due to our psychic abilities, we managed to get together and enjoyed our small lunch - Brian's birthday!

Pamper yourself [Groupon]

2011-10-18T23:36:00.002+08:00

The brief post on how my meni pedi outing with Jamien was.

Anyways, getting into details we had our appointment at 3pm but when we got there, there was only one seat available. I was a little upset because I thought both of us could get our stuff done in sync together.

Jamien let me have the seat first and my foot was soaked in the warm water for a little while as she sat by the side on the sofa to talk to me. The chair had a massage function with remote control. Nice. Plus point.

After a while, Jamien was whisked away to the meni table to get her nails cleaned up and I was left alone to enjoy the scrubbing and the massage. It was ticklish when the beautician scrubbed the bottom of my foot, I gripped my bag tightly and prevented myself from laughing out loud.

Soon the seat next to me was vacant so Jamien joined me to get her foot washed and scrubbed. By then I was drying my pedicure - green apple style. Next was my nails - I prefer them to be round and sharp instead of square.

My nails were painted professionally and I was going through my 4th or 5th round of massage by then while waiting for them to dry. I wanted to try the oven looking menicure dryer but since they had mini fans next to my hands - I'm happy.

The end results - I love my nails and my feet felt fresher. Will considering coming back here for some pampering time with the girlfriends.

How much did I pay for this deal?

90 mins menicure + pedicure + callus removal + anti aging serum for legs and hands = RM 38

Jovial Beauty & Nail Spa

No.12, Jalan PJU 5/21,

The Strand, Kota Damansara,

47810, Petaling Jaya, Selangor

Lucky gold

2011-10-17T19:26:00.004+08:00

Location : Kota Damansara
Objective : Meni pedi session

A long awaited meet up session with Jamien whom I haven't met since January.

We bought some groupon for meni pedi and headed off to Kota Damansara for a Sunday outing together. Her boyfriend dropped us along the rows of shop houses at The Strand and we were stranded there. Get it? The Strand, stranded .. I'm so lame.

Anyway, it was an hour before our meni pedi appointment so we were walking up and down to find a place to eat. There were places to eat but we were being picky. I used to work here during my internship and the area definitely had grown.

There was a guy who started waving us from afar to attract him to his restaurant. Instead it turned us off cause it's creepy. Nothing to do with his looks.

Finally we settled for a decent looking cafe which had an odd name - Bird Man.

The name might be weird but the food was delicious. The staff and owner was friendly, even when they served our drink they were encouraging us to enjoy our time there.

The honey lemon was superb. One of the best I ever tasted.

My bacon mushroom cabonara with egg. I didn't like my egg so I traded with Jamien for her hard boiled egg. Her ramen was delicious as well. We really enjoyed our meal.

Here's a funny snippet. Before we left the cafe, we headed to the toilet.

Me : You're going to the toilet too?

Jamien : Yeah, have to sit for 90 mins .. of course need to go to the toilet

Owner : Take your time

It dawned to me that maybe the owner thought we will be sitting in the bathroom for 90 minutes. Hehe.

Anyways, we headed to our meni pedi session at Jovial Beauty & Spa but there was only one seat available so Jamien let me go first. Massage chair which enhanced my session. *love*

Nothing to massage my butt but my back will do.

Soaking my giant feet in the basin. Water was too hot at first then it got warm and nice.

Chatting time with Jamien while waiting for our nails to dry.

Love my freshly scrubbed feet. I picked green for my feet. Green with envy. Actually, it's apple green.

We walked around the area and finally stopped at Snowflake dessert where Jamien wanted me to try their dessert.

The bestseller which has got me hooked on first spoon. Jamien found it amusing when she saw me blowing the ice before I put it in my mouth.

Reflex wei. Soup like spoon and reluctance to put in my mouth made my mind auto switch to boiling hot warning.

The color I picked for my nail - golden. I've always been a black, white, pink and purple girl so gold was a new color for me.

Came back home for dinner and some rest time before work tomorrow.

Babe, let's do something again .. in another 10 months? Hehe

Big Bad Wolf Sale 2011

2011-10-10T19:47:00.005+08:00

Location : MAEPS
Objective: The big bad wolf sale

Last Friday and Saturday, I visited the big bad wolf. Since I had a great time two years ago and last year , I decided to take a day off and join the madness crowd for the first day of the sale.

Armed with cloth bag and a bookworm friend, we headed off to MAEPS.

There were cute little trams which takes you from the parking lot to the front of the hall. Thank you very much for the consideration, especially after purchasing books. Imagine walking down hill with heavy loads and bags of books in your hands.

The trams were categorized as fruits and fishes mostly. Kind of entertaining to watch these colorful babies go up and down.

Anyway on Friday, when we got there we had to queue. We were probably the 60th - 80th people in queue and that's only at 9. The sale starts at 10.

Saturday had lesser people though. I arrived almost the same time but we managed to stand in the 12th or so spot.

Big Bad Wolf sale is on! 1.5 million books to devour.

When the whistle blows and the race began, I went in and headed straight to the section I wanted. The whole browsing experience was a much pleasant one compared to previous years. Much more aisle space and don't need to elbow other people.

The sight of trolley, boxes, luggages that people brought were not surprising. It's a norm when the wolf opened his lair.

Heard that the queue was so long it circulated the building. Whew, lucky to be early.

There were many cashier counters too and staff on each counter to speed up the payment process. Cool.

Look at how huge the hall is. In two days, I managed to almost cover all. Well, I decided to shy away from being in the crowd too much because I will keep buying and buying until I'm broke.

I have no self control like that. *shameless*

Oh, this is the toilet. It has a hole. Beware of peeping Tom or peeping wolf.

Don't worry about being hungry. There are food outside when you're done browsing inside.

The haul for two days worth :-

Friday purchases.

Always wanted to see the fuss about the shopacholic series but too kiam siap to spend so much but now I get 5 books for 40 bucks.

Saturday purchases

Mix and match of fiction, self help and puzzle books for the family. Now the family is addicted to solving puzzles!

How much I spent for 2 days ?

28 books for RM 220 .. which means averagely my books cost 7 or 8 bucks each.

If the average book outside cost about RM 30, I can only get about 7 books for 220.

I'm a happy girl.

Who else headed down to the wolf lair and who is going soon? (for second or third round maybe?)

The lair will be close this Sunday and only returning next year.

Go grab your books!

Solving a hairy situation [Groupon]

2011-10-07T23:07:00.001+08:00

I haven't met up with Jo for so long - ever since my birthday last August. So when she suggested that we get a groupon and do something girly together, I agreed. She suggested we go and get our hair done. I thought, perfect - I needed a new hair cut since my hair was getting bushy and thick again.

We went to Peek A Boo in The Curve after the Big Bad Wolf Sale with Karyn in the morning.

I was greeted by a friendly girl who took me every step of the way

of what she's doing to my hair. The hairstylist stopped by and exclaimed in shock on how dry my hair was. Oops. I didn't realize it was that bad but to be honest, I do feel it has become rather hay like.

I had a little dandruff so I was advised to choose the scalp treatment. The procedure was explained to me along the way and whatever doubts and questions I had in mind was answered.

I dunno how to explain it but when someone washes your hair, it's totally different from when you're washing them yourselves. I cut off my locks and trimmed my hair.

Jo opted for hair treatment instead. The whole process took us about 2 hours + but Jo was done before me even though she started later than me. Too much hair to go through on mine, I guess.

How much I got the deal for?

Scalp treatment + cut + blow + dry = RM 52.20

The service was awesome and I like having a friendly conversation. Would probably go back there to do scalp treatment in the future.

Peek A Boo has three branches and you can check them out here!

Cubicle

2011-09-27T20:44:00.003+08:00

Last week, after work I decided to arrange everything on my office desk.

Bits and pieces of me around the area.

Uphill climb

2011-09-24T17:23:00.001+08:00

Location : Broga Hill
Objective : Byakuren outing

So this post is like a week outdated.

First of all, I declare myself very unfit. I was a wirawati trainee who climbed 5 storey high building and went jungle trekking and jogging every day.

Sigh. 7 years ago I was darn fit. As a horse.

7 years later, I'm as fit as a .. bean bag.

Anyway, it took us about an hour to get to Broga where we were staying a night at Outbac - the adventure land.

Eunice took me and Ai along with her. I knew I was not going to a weekend gateway of self pampering so I prepared lots of unflattering clothes along. Plus, there were no guys to impress.

In the car we were joking around and making fake English accent with much laughter. There were 9 cars following each other.

On the way to the location which is actually kind of secluded from the big roads.

This photo is tipu one, taken on the way back.

When we arrived, the instructor gave us a short briefing about what's going to happen in the next 24 hours.

Our own agenda planned for the next 24 hours. We were divided into groups and dorms, took our bags, gathered the provided bedsheet, pillow cover, blanket and headed to our assigned dorms to get ready for the activities.

I chose the lower bunk of the double deck bed cause I hate sleeping on top. Ai and I were in different dorms. There were about 20 girls or so in one dorm.

After changing our clothes and settling down, it's time for station games. We were divided into three big groups to play different activities.

The first I had to endure was The Leap of Faith. Basically you have to climb up the tree and jump off the board hoping to catch a hanging stick in front of you. I was initially afraid of the height but upon climbing, I realized I'm more afraid of the climb. I have weak upper arms muscles and it was so hard for me to haul myself up the board.

In the end, I slipped and fell .. swinging around. That was not scary, I don't mind swinging longer but once I came down, my hands were shaking and my legs were weak. I basically sat numbly on the grass. My team mates were nice though, their first concern was whether I'm hurt as I came down with red palms.

Second was The Spider Web which requires you to work as team to get everyone who is trapped in the web out. Not so kan cheong.

The third was Flying Fox. I was thinking whether I should go for it or sit back. Sometimes you have to push yourself but you must also know how much your mind and body can take.

Then it started raining. By then I was tired and I just wanted to have a shower. Most of them were still excited running around but I teman Eunice back to the dorm first. There was only one toilet for each dorm so coming back early meant I can shower first and not fight with them for the bathroom.

The sky was dark and it was drizzling heavily.

At night the rain stopped in time for our outdoor bbq session. We were provided with some basic food :- coleslaw, fried rice, fried mee and the rest we had to burn on our own.

Some of the girls were gathering around the grill, some were eating and some were being playful and camwhoring around. Ai and I eventually joined the grilling group when we spread the butter on the sausages and honey on the chicken. Our chicken was raw even though it was burnt outside.

The OutBac staff performed a great fire show for us. These are guys younger than us but they conquered the basketball court with their fire talents. Cheers.

We had a cloud 9 'cake' for the September babies as well.

I made some new friends because everyone seemed approachable.

My temporary pillow for the night. Everyone went to bed early as we were getting up early for the hike tomorrow. I'm nervous since I'm so unfit.

Went to bed around 10:30 pm, lights were off by then. Scheduled to wake up by 4:30 pm. The bed was creaking whenever I moved or the person on top of me moved. I was a little afraid the top part would come crashing down on me. *horrified face*

Nevertheless, I fell asleep and had two dreams about our camp. In the end, I heard girls giggling and talking outside. Woah, what time is it? 3:55 am. What the heck? I sighed and closed my eyes. 1/2 hour more to sleep, why bother waking up so early?

Woke up in the end and had some bun and water before we gathered and had another briefing before we set off towards the hill. It reminded me so much of the time when I had to go for night jungle trekking during National Service days.

I was out of shape that me and Ai had to stop several times to catch our breath before continuing the climb. I was afraid of the steep hill but I kept climbing.

Now the thing was, I was almost at the first peak but my mistake was to stop and sat down to rest for a while because when I did, I realized how steep and high up above I am.

I straight away hit panic mode. Ai climbed up higher and rested above me but I could not continue anymore. I was convinced that if I made any wrong movement, I would go tumbling down the hill. It was as steep as 50 degrees.

So I reached my "peak" with some other girls who also stopped there too.

This is what I see from my stop.

This is what I see down below

This is what Ai see, I'm sitting right there ..

I came down using my butt because I'm afraid of tumbling down so I scoot down with my butt *paiseh*

The rest of the journey was my foot but those really steep ones, I bend down once again to lower the center of gravity. I kept telling myself "use those big feet of yours for good, come on, you can do it"

A big sigh of relief once I reached normal ground. There were a few times I almost slipped as it rained yesterday evening.

One of the girls was nice enough to buy me a bottle of 100 plus as my bag + my wallet was with Eunice. Then she refused to accept my payment.

Waited for the rest of them to come down and we were soon walking back to the camp.

The bunch of girls who climbed Broga Hill.

Upon reaching back camp, we were served spaghetti with fries for breakfast. After the breakfast, we were given the option whether we wanna continue with the other physical activities or rest.

I choose to rest. Obviously.

It was also time to get to know the other girls. I didn't shower, just had a change of clothes. Not smelly! It was check out time as we put our bags away in the cars. Then we had our little conclusion gathering before we departed for lunch and headed home.

I did not care whether I reached the any peak of Broga but looking at other's photos - I admit, there was a little jealousy so I am determined to climb Broga again and this time I want to be able to get to at least 3 out of 4 peaks. Give me 2 years.

Surprisingly my body or legs did not ache after coming but my arms certainly did from climbing up the tree.

It was definitely a different experience altogether and it reminded me of how weak am I.

Broga Hill, you have not seen the last of me.

credit :- Ai.love.you.photox

Slapped

2011-09-21T20:58:00.001+08:00

Today my heart broke when I found out I meant almost nothing to him.

I was wrong. He never had the same vision as I did.

Now the worst thing is if I walk away and you don't chase after me, I will collapse.

posted from Bloggeroid

The way

2011-09-20T20:51:00.004+08:00

He almost never said it but I know he cares.

It's in the way he nags me if I used my phone in the train - not aware of my surroundings.

It's in the way he massage me if I mentioned about aches and pains.

It's in the way he brushes his hand across my face, simply.

It's in the way he kept asking me if I have umbrella when it's raining.

It's in the way he tries his best to help me with his ability.

It's in the way he looks at me with a smile.

It's in the way he buries his head in my hair.

I respect him, I trust him and I adore him.

The first wedding

2011-09-18T21:09:00.012+08:00

Location : Penang
Objective : Cousin's wedding

I went to Malacca for my Raya holidays and not Penang. Why not Penang?

Waddy wants groundnuts too!

Cause I was heading to Penang barely two weeks after Malacca for my cousin's wedding.

Yes, I finally got a cousin who is married.

Might not sound like a big deal but I never attended a close family wedding before. Now my cousin is married. He's the eldest in the family chart anyway.

I'm so excited. Wedding. Romance. Family. Travel. What's not to love?

The last time I talked to Johnny ge was like .. 7 years ago ? Okay la, we're not that close but I will always have that fond memory of him buying me Sugus days leading up to CNY back then. I was 9 and he treated me like a small sister.

Set out early Saturday morning for a 4 hours drive. The usual butt cramp and what nonsense happened in the car. My siblings are nut cases. *shake head*

After a short nap and woken up by the brother, mom asked do we want to visit gong gong?

Grandpa's house was nearby uncle's house - about 5 mins drive away so we went to visit gong gong. He looked alone and lonely since po po passed away.

Plus, today is his birthday! San's birthday, gong gong's birthday and Johnny ge's wedding dinner.

Brother playing Drop - a tilt sensor game on my phone

Lepaked around gong gong's house for a while - except we have nothing to do. The nutcases tried to break my high scores. They succeeded.

Gah!

Went back to shower and started getting ready. It'll be an hour drive to the island.

Every girl's dilemma / nightmare. Overpacking. Like me. I brought 3 changes of dresses for one dinner. Luckily I did though. Had some unexpected circumstances came up.

Ah ma looked different and queen like in her orange cheong sam. First grandchild/grandson to be married wor. Must pan leng leng.

My cousin is married!

For the first time, I get to sit next to the VIP table with my family~ Yey!

I love it when no one has a stupid laptop in front of them and we can communicate face to face with real voice. No lol or haha or k.

Soon after, my other baby cousins came. They are not exactly babies but they're younger than me. I was so happy to see Kat and Eve. It's so hard to meet 3 of us together since Kat lives in Penang and Eve in KL.

It's either me and Eve, Eve and Kat or Kat and me. Same story go round round la but that night we gathered after so long apart.

Even CNY also don't have this opportunity.

The dinner was the usual typical Chinese wedding dinner. There were some dishes which I liked and some I don't fancy that much but that's just my taste buds.

The older cousins were shouting and jeering for the younger cousins to close their eyes during Johnny ge's love story video. lol. My cousins are all grown up de, the babiest being 14.

Us cousins running around, sneaking to the bathroom and camwhoring before, during and after dinner. The hall was filled with red and white helium balloon, some already kissing the ceiling while others are tied to their chairs.

There was the cutting cake ceremony, the champagne pouring ceremony, my uncle went up to give a speech, my cousin running around doing bits and pieces for his brother's wedding and a some red wine to pass around.

Our appetizers of assorted noms. After this no more food photos cause I got lazy and my camera sucks under these lighting.

Ended the night with a huge family photo - everyone plus a new cousin sister in law included. It was on my wishlist since I was 14 to have the whole family together in a photo. Now it finally came true.

*tear*

No more photos for the next day but the wedding registration happened in the kaikan town side of Penang.

I fiercely protect my photo privacy on certain areas so there's no photos of this. Maybe someday but not now. Sorry.

My cousin looked like a grown up man with his stunning wife beside him. Where have the years passed?

Then there's the tea ceremony when cousin Eileen innocently asked me why am I not being served tea. Wth. I'm no senior and not married. Total disqualified.

I get to serve the newlyweds tea when I get married.

Kat was sad that some kid said " thank you auntie " when she helped the little girl get some fries. LOL. Kat is younger than me by 2 years.

Received one ang pau each from the bride and the groom. Ge ge and .. ta shao? (older sister in law) .. I think that's the closest most polite way to greet her.

After a short lunch buffet, we unexpectedly gathered all the cousins in the hall and started singing for the second to the family throne cousin as it was his birthday! He started to escape but of course the uncles dragged him in.

That's all we can give him for his birthday this year.

So now that my eldest cousin ge ge is married, who's next? Second cousin ge ge denies fully that it's his turn so that leaves third to the throne - me. First girl, third in line. Will his prediction of my wedding in 3 years come true?

Or will it be the groom's brother - fourth in line? Or will it suddenly be Eve who has a 7 years relationship? Jeng jeng jeng.

Travelled back home in the early evening. Looks like I don't have to take a day off after all.

p/s : as of now, sister got the highest score ever. gah. i give up.

back to work.

A twist within a surprise

2011-09-12T08:11:00.005+08:00

I'll tell you about my colleague's birthday and what happened behind the scene.

Last Thursday, we surprised her by presenting her container filled cake when she was in the midst of eating some raya snacks. At the end of the day, we presented her with a poster.

San was shocked and speechless. She had no idea we had this little "celebration for her". If only she knew the whole chaos happening 24 hours before.

So the story goes ..

I was in charge of the poster - just a simple gesture because it's the thought that counts. I quickly put together a montage photo of us - all of us - pieces of us as we don't have a 100 percent complete family portrait. I want everyone on the poster.

I consulted with Jos about the layout and tweaked it here and there a little. I sent it back to her, perfect. complete. ready. Waited for a response. *drums fingers on table* no response.

Opened up my ym window and realized Jos's window was empty. Then I opened San's window.

You know the sudden chill that shoots up your spine and the sudden nausea in your mouth when you knew you screwed something up?

Fuck.

I just sent the surprise poster to the birthday girl herself. Made a half ass attempt to cover it up with some lame ass story that I made one for everyone. Prayed that San might be blur and busy enough not to notice anything else.

My legs went weak after that. I screwed up big time. It's all on the cake now - that is, if she didn't figure it out yet.

The cake was suppose to be a surprise in disguise of some raya snacking. Baskin Robbins - beautiful ice cream cake. We were pleased.

Next day, an sms came in the morning from Jos.

Cake melted. Fuck.

Salvaged what's left of the cake and placed it in the containers.

I tried to make everyone sign and write their wishes on the poster but because the plan almost bocor, the poster was undone and we had to push the cake forward.

She did not expect it - first time see San tongue tied.

Second part of all - she did not expect the poster either until she saw me approaching her with it. Her eyes bulged and she burst into laughter when I told her about the file that I sent a day earlier. It was labelled with her name with the word bday. She did not notice.

The cake was delicious. It was not as bad as it looked in the photo.

-- insert your own imagination of how bad the cake looked --

It's the thought that counts right?

Happy belated birthday San!

p/s : I decided not to post the pic of the poster to keep it special to ourselves. ;)

Heritage city

2011-09-04T18:00:00.000+08:00

Location : Malacca
Objective : Family trip

I have one week off for this Raya Merdeka holiday so I planned a short trip for me and the family. The point of this trip was to have a mature historical sight seeing vacation.

Pump some petrol, got a drink and we're on the move.

#1. Waddy travelling along and ready for vacation !

Reached Malacca and had a little trouble finding the hotel as I booked out of the city centre. More on the hotel later.

#2. Some old houses .. we're in Malacca!

Finally we found the hotel at the corner of shop houses. Dad was hesitating about the hotel based on the exterior but I insisted we give it a chance before dismissing it. I'm pretty sure about my choice.

It was early to check in so we had lunch nearby - my fish fillet rice was not so nice. Went to see if we can check in early and yes, we can check in early.

#3. Our hotel room

My choice was right on! The room was huge, affordable on a budget and had two air cons right in front of two queen size beds. On the other side of the room is a huge tv screen, a big dressing table and huge wardrobe.

After lazing around for an hour or two, we went to the mall. Too late to go down to city centre so we walked around the mall for a while. We past through Jonker Street and it was super crowded, cars were moving by inches every few minutes. Big mistake.

Decided to have dinner at the mall itself to avoid the hassle.

Dinner was bad. Service was bad. Dish was bad. Tables were left uncleared. Maybe they were short handed that day.

#4. Lantern rabbits wearing baju Melayu

I was going all out to make everyone happy so I spent on pearl drinks and you tiao kueh.

Lesson learned :- DO NOT order passion fruit pearl ice blended. Super sour max and I had to mix it with a lot of water to dilute it.

Got lost on the way out after the mall to return back to the hotel but with the help of landmarks and road signs, you'll always find your way.

Rest for the night and retired early but sister stayed up to watch Nightmare on Elm Street. Horror movie, I'm heading to bed.

******************

In the morning we headed down to city centre before the craziness begins. Even then, we had to scout around for a parking. Everyone is in Malacca for the holidays.

Walked down to Jonker for breakfast. People are already queuing like ants at famous hot spots. I'm not a foodie and we don't want to waste our whole day waiting for food therefore we picked a random shorter queue shop.

#5. 23 minutes for breakfast

I dunno is it just my pallet or maybe I got the wrong spot or something but chicken rice balls were nothing to shout about? It's rice - in ball form. Period.

#6. St Francis Xavier church built in 1849

#7. Looking through the fence at the crowd. Malacca is hot!

#8. One of the happening spot - trishaws and tourists were crowding the area.

Went into one of the historical museum cause sister wanna go. See your history text book comes to live. Pretty interesting in the beginning. There's a number of exhibits from the different countries that were here in before.

Annoying auntie tried to get in without paying whilst I was busy at the ticket counter. Her friend kept calling her in saying " come in la, he cannot see now" .. WOI! using me as a shield is it! Luckily the pak cik behind the counter saw and started calling out to them like goats. Yet the auntie still wanna buat bodoh like that.

I walked off, beh tahan see this kind of character. Felt like slapping people.

*anger rant over*

Entry is RM 5 per person.

#9. These were the currency used in Malacca back then! Comel or not!

Imagining huge bucket as purse if these were still implemented today. Got other animal shapes as well but the crocodile one was the cutest.

#10. A statue of Cheng Ho

Actually I don't remember what he did - I just knew he was very important back then. History fail max.

We actually visited another democracy museum but it was filled with recent stuff about the election and all those political agenda. Boring.

So we moved on to more touristy stuff - the A Famosa !

#11. Look at the amount of cash people throw in this hole.

I donated my cash instead to the singing guitar playing dude around there. Considered his singing was working for his money. Then I donated again for this dude who was at the corner of the stairs heading down. He was playing on his harmonica.

I dunno how to blow the harmonica but it was beautiful.

#12. Porta de Santiago

Many many many years ago it was built by the Portuguese when Malacca was colonized by them.

We walked a great distance to get to the big ship .. although I was already losing my energy and excitement. The weather was hot and I was lost.

#13. The Maritime museum

I promised my sister that we would visit this one but the crowd and the queue just made me even more demotivated.

I wanted to get something for myself to bring home. Then we noticed this little stall where the uncle can write your name on any pendant you like.

#14. Uncle writing our name on the pendants

I even bought one for cousin Eve. All for RM 5 for one. Bought sister two.

#15. Welcome to Jonker Street

We kept walking and arrived at Jonker again. Walked from one end to the other. I bought 6 pieces of dim sum for RM 3.

We stopped at the shop at the near end to get some pastries and the shop serves cendol which was absolutely delicious I had two bowls.

Or was it because I was dehydrated?

#16. Durian puff

Bought this durian cream puff. Take one big bite and the durian will all explode in your mouth. Delicious. It can only last for 6 hours though so eat it up.

After hours under the hot sun, we went back to the mall - Dataran Pahlawan mall.

#17. Angry seahorse

There were angry seahorse figures there - I dunno why. The mall has nothing to be seen but we stopped at the benches to have a drink while sister had a Maggi cup. Random.

I didn't want to eat in the mall - it's our last dinner here and I don't want "manufactured" food from branches which can be found at home and everywhere else. I want to go back to the hotel, have a rest and come out for delicious home cooked style dinner. I refuse to have another bad dinner.

I sound like a whiny brat but I seriously thought I might throw up if I taste another mall restaurant food.

#18. Angry bird

I walked in Jonker Gallery earlier and this was one of the holiday toy that I bought. You know, those stuff you randomly buy because "oh it's a holiday, why not" but when you come back to reality, it's just meh.

The fun lasted for a while though - shooting the bird all over the room.

# 19. A new friend

Sister wanted an Angry Bird figure and she settled for the green pig which has a black tail.

#20. Waiting for dinner

The dream dinner right below the hotel. Home cooked dishes never tasted so good. We had tofu, lemon chicken, meat in egg, sambal kangkong and veggie.

At night we had a good rest while we played cards. It's amusing to see my parents play Crazy Old Fish War and Life. They were confused, caught off guard and sneaky once they were familiar with the game.

#21. Good night everyone

We spent our last morning in Malacca in the hotel room, just resting and enjoying the ambiance. Breakfast was fried rice - which was okay.

The hotel was very spacious and nice. The staff were very friendly and patient. There's a private parking lot away from the hotel but I was told it will be lock at 1 am every night.

The elevator door closes very fast - my siblings were stuck inside once and they had to travel up again. It was funny though.

I'm not usually the kind of person who would return to the same hotel as I like to explore different ones but I would definitely recommend this hotel to anyone who is heading to Malacca. I booked this hotel based on the reviews I found on TripAdvisor.

A bit out of town but the comfort, rate and convenient eating places made it worth while.

Don't judge the hotel by it's building - it looks a little run down but trust me, it's comfortable. A gem inside.

Thank you Selectstar for your service and memorable stay.

#22. Hello KL

It's back to business again. Time to lose these fatty friends gained during the holidays.

Although I did not get to those famous eating places due to the crowd (Jonker 88, Capitol Satay etc) I was happy with the outcome of the trip. It breaks routine once in a while. Whatdya know, I do like to travel a little after all.

Making grandma happy

2011-08-25T16:26:00.001+08:00

Location : Leisure Mall
Objective : Getting grandma's birthday present

So to compensate missing my grandma's birthday dinner - I had to cut my byakuren duty into half day. Cousin Eve came and picked me up alongside some lunch.

I went to my auntie's house to rest for a while. The plan was to bring grandma out shopping. After resting for about two hours, me and Eve took grandma out to look for stuff.

Leisure Mall had lanterns up since the mooncake festival is coming up soon - mid Sept.

We went from shop to shop and grandma got a pair of sandals. Eve got a decoration for her car - a soft frog with big head. It's her all time obsession which I don't understand.

I took out the cash since I was feeling generous and who else to spend money on if not family? As long as they are happy and grandma does not know how much her footwear cost.

Oh, I have membership for the shoe shop now. Unfortunately I can't find any of the branch anywhere near to home.

Halfway through walking, a strange thing happened. My palms started itching suddenly. I thought maybe it was because I kept touching everything I see around me. Clothes, bag, belt etc but Eve's opinion was because I haven't buy anything for myself.

Maybe ... just maybe...

Then I bought myself a pair of sunglasses. My hands stop itching. It worked!

I'm just psycho-ing myself out. Eve's bf joined us after that.

We stopped for tea at Wong Kok and grandma was eligible for birthday tea! 3 days before or after your birthday, you're eligible. All you have to do is show your IC and spend at least RM 30 on your menu.

My ham egg toast and we got a cup each of the birthday tea.

I love this branch of Wong Kok. They kept playing Jay's MTV. Super like.

At the end of the meal, Eve and her bf pushed their portion of bill to me but I rejected. Then Eve mentioned :-

"If you don't take, later she take out her wallet and pay ah"

lol. fine. i accept.

Her bf drove me, Eve and grandma home.

Eve with my new sunglasses. Pretty fly.

Board games day

2011-08-23T11:21:00.000+08:00

Location : Lily's house

Objective : Board games day

Last weekend me and Mia went to Lily's house to play board games. I brought my own bagful of games :- my cards and my mini games.

We were also going to break fast with Mia.

So first of all, we played Pictionary - which I won by 8 points.

Then we played Crazy Old Fish War - which me and Mia won a round each. Coincidentally Lily also have this card so I taught them how to play. The last time I played this was in KK with the other girls.

After that, we got to the addictive Monopoly Deal. Obviously this was the most long playing game throughout the evening.

When it comes to dinner, we ordered Nando's. I had no idea Nando's do delivery. Within 30 minutes, the food arrived. Oh yummy. One more hour to break fast.

Our side order :- Lily's rice, my potato salad and Mia's coleslaw with lots of sauce.

My 1/4 chicken with the other side order :- peri chips and a glass of coke for dinner.

Look! It's my potato salad ball!

After dinner, we kept playing Monopoly Deal up till 10 pm at night.

Due to some mis communication, I didn't get to see my grandma for her birthday. Was supposed to see her since I missed family dinner but I'm scheming in my head how to make it up to her tomorrow.

Mia is going to Spain! I hope she will have lots and lots of fun!

"Buka puasa" dinner

2011-08-20T13:22:00.000+08:00

Earlier this month, Jos asked if we would like to buka puasa together. Being someone who likes hanging out with her colleagues, I said sure why not?

I was assigned to pick a place and instead of the usual Mid, I chose Sunway. Everyone said sure. A little surprise there. Expected some protest.

San had a hard time choosing the date and I got weary. The date for our dinner changed twice but she wouldn't let me handle it or accept my help in informing the rest.

Anyways the choosen date arrived and we headed off to Sunway, Papa John's. I picked it. Again, no protest.

Met Lily somewhere walking around with her mother. Gave a short greeting and went to Daiso to pick up some stuff. Actually I changed my mind and decided to just walk and browse around.

We actually parted ways before dinner but had our reservations ready so no worries about no table.

When me, Melvin and San were heading to Papa John's, San got a call whom I assumed was Jos. Melvin suddenly strayed and I thought he was getting lost so I chased him back. The whole thing was an act! I was deceived. He purposely strayed and that was not Jos on the phone!

Just as I was taking my seat, Jo appeared. Since I encountered Lily earlier, my first initial reaction was coincidence. Turns out she's the puppet master - the one who orchestrated the whole dinner since a month ago. Everyone knew about it. Every single one of my colleague. Including the ones who can't make it that night.

A month ago!! This buka puasa dinner was planned a month ago under my radar. Now I found out the other agenda - it was for my birthday too. Soon, the rest came back for dinner. Well, Brian got lost for a while.

I sat there dumbfounded for 10 minutes. I see my colleagues every day for card and yet they never made a slip out. I didn't know whether to be impressed or to feel stupid. I was deceived.

Nevertheless, thank you guys for the birthday dinner. Certainly was a surprise, certainly unexpected. Then there's Jo~ whom I saw few days ago at Aquaria. A month?

In a twisted way, I actually planned my own birthday dinner. Everything made sense that night.

photo credits :- jddphotos

With his heart edited

2011-08-18T17:53:00.002+08:00

I'm usually not a blog person when it comes to him and me but sometimes I like to jot down snippets so that these memories will last forever, here.

Chocolate from my sweet

I got something for you but I'm afraid you expect something more - his words from the previous week echoed

"Only chocolate?" I joked.

He placed it in my palm and asked me to take a guess before I looked at it.

"What is it?" he asked and I was clueless. Durian? That was my only guess.

I had no idea what it was.

No idea.

It's my little birdie beady penguin hand made by him. He still surprises me sometimes, I have no idea he knew how to bead and for a guy to do so, it put a smile on my face.

Other girls might get diamonds and flowers and jewelry but I got Piku, my own penguin. It doesn't matter how much it was or how un-penguin it might look like, it's the thought that counts. Truly.

The view in Putrajaya edited

2011-08-17T23:42:00.001+08:00

Location : Pullman Putrajaya Lakeside Hotel
Objective : Buka Puasa company dinner

I'm a firm believer of "better early than late". My colleagues too. We were afraid we might get lost but within 5 mins or so, we arrived at the hotel. 1 and half hour early for dinner.

Armed with camera in Jos's hands, we toured the hotel area for a while. Enjoy the photo views :)

No swimming in this lake.

Blue lychee drink with napkin.

Blue lychee drink was not nice, it tasted like lychee in your mouth but the after taste was like cough syrup. *shudder*

The food was not really my cup of tea. There were lots of curry and meat that I couldn't identify in the mix of buffet colors. I'm not exactly carnivorous and I was lost in the sea of food with nothing much to eat. The satay queue was too long for me so I got lazy.

Although it was so, I went with my colleagues , my friends because that's what it's about - spending time after work.

Picking up some pudding dessert

The night scene

After a short dinner - I ate satay but I dunno what meat I ate. I walked a little bit to get photos of the area. My phone does not do well in the dark - thus the not so great photos.

We're having our own dinner next. Our own little buka puasa dinner.

Then I turn a year older

2011-08-16T23:53:00.002+08:00

Had a sinful eating weekend, I thought it was time to slow down before gearing up again for middle of the week eat fest. *breathe*

Did not expect anything on my real birthday since I had to go to work and do the same Monday routine. Up point :- today's lunch did not taste as bad as before.

The ticklish point for today was charging everyone the "it's my birthday" for monopoly deal. It doesn't get any more real than that.

Came home late, had a normal dinner, watched some tv and laze around when suddenly sister walked downstairs with a small chocolate cake.

"happy birthday jie" she said in her cute voice and I was stunned.

Did not see cake coming. Did not know mum bought me a cake.

So of course generally I wanted to share my cake with my brother whose birthday was just a few days shy from mine.

Later on, found out that brother of mine picked the cake.

It's a nice gesture to be surprised like that. I don't need a huge cake. It's always the thought that counts, as cliché as it might sound but oh so true.

A moment on the lips, forever on the hips

2011-08-14T23:39:00.000+08:00

I totally tried to ignore that saying.

This year I wanted to spend my birthday by splurging on the family. Usually I'm flat broke but now that I'm financially balanced, I would like to spoil them a little.

The previous day we already have fast food and mom's sinful glutinous rice + prawn fritters so today we are going to continue the eating train.

First up, ordering Canadian Pizza. After hearing reviews from two source, I decided to try it out. Expected to wait 45 minutes for pizza but was pleasantly surprised to get it in less than 1/2 hour. Good service. Paid RM 59.90 for 3 large pizzas. Worth it.

Hurry, promotion under end of the month nia.

I can't really tell the difference between these pizza outlets but what I really like is these pizzas has no oily crust which means after eating, I can just brush my crumbs off without washing my hand. Lazy max.

Since dinner was early, about 6 or so we indulged in the pizzas slowly. Not long after that, brother brought out the pearl ice blended that he bought earlier. I was expecting an orgasmic drink like the one I had in KK but was slightly disappointed when it was not up to that standard.

Nevertheless, I finished the drink. Just wished the pearls were a bit bigger. I shall end my blog with a fat comment again, I look like a barrel now.

Creatures of sea and land

2011-08-13T10:14:00.000+08:00

Location :- KLCC
Objective :- Aquaria

I been to KLCC several times cause it’s easy access. Yey LRT *iloveyou*.

I been there for the movies, the free art gallery, the book fair, the PC fair .. but not shopping cause my pocket will burn a hole *emo cause I poor*. Yup, I been to KLCC for many things except I never been to Aquaria. So when there’s a chance to go for an adventure, I raised my hand and shouted Aquaria!

Me and Dna wanted to get on the same train ze train lied to us. The train number was 206 but when the train left our meetup station,I saw Dna standing outside looking clueless. From the outside, ze train is 106. Why number different one??

Ok la, long story short we went upstairs to meet with Jo and I thought Aquaria was the one right at the top. No, it’s not. That’s PetroSains. *directory fail* Our theme for the day was checkered shirts. I wanted to wear red but Joey was wearing red and luckily I just ordered a green one from Kate few days before.

Turns out Aquaria is not at the top but bottom, near the convention centre there. We let the school kids to enter first because they were in a big group.

Right before we entered, this Aquaria dude took our photo. My first thoughts were “wtf is going on. Are they checking if I’m Malaysian?” Fast forward, ticket was 35 bucks per head.

Didn’t think it would be crowded with kids. Should have come during MMU student time – holiday on weekdays but back then, no money. Lose- lose situation.

First tank on your left you’ll see is the piranha tank.

Poor dude surrounded by piranhas.

Then there’s the eels and the mammals.

Water rat swimming while the other one sleeps

Shall not go into detail so that I won’t spoil your trip if you decided to go. Moving on would be the creepy crawlies and the reptiles.

Small crocodile head poked out of the water surface

Barking gecko .. read below

Heard a tourist asked "Is this the one that Britney Spears carried??"

Frog that looked like a stone

Oh, you are allowed camera but no flash please. Later the fish die. I dunno, I simply made that up but no flash please. It’s also hard to take photo because everything there will be reflected back so had only a few good ones.

Luckily baby Aria has no flash therefore I won’t accidentally harm the fishies. There are some interesting animals in little boxes here and you can cozy up to them separated by a piece of glass. Jo went near the gecko and the dude barked at her la. Cleaning lady also said that gecko never made a sound before. Wahaha.

The view from level two - downstairs

Level one complete. Walked down the stairs to find a camwhore spot cylinder of fishes. Lots of fishes here, I didn’t read one by one what are they. There’s a tank here with a huge fish. I think longer and rounder than me with scales as big as saucers.

We continued our journey after snapping fishes and ourselves under the awesome romantic lights.A few of the tanks were empty – new exhibits coming soon. Then there’s a few stalls which sells knicks and knacks.

I got my name written on glow in the dark rice and inserted into a red dolphin necklace. That’s a mouthful. Saved the best for last.

The tunnel travelator which was moving slow so that you can enjoy the view of the fishies swimming around. It was definitely fun. The sharks and other creatures looked exactly like the ones in discovery channel. I was inches away from sharks and their scary looking teeth.

I am shark giving you evil eye!

Turtle looked so pissed at me for taking its photo

Upon exiting the tunnel, we proceeded to the weird creatures side, although I wouldn’t call them weird, just unusual.

Jellyfish! Actually cool if only it doesn't sting you to death

Our last stop was the souvenir store.

Actually there’s a lot of souvenirs you can get for a decent price but we came out empty handed. I was happy with my dolphin necklace.

How was the experience? We spent 3 hours in there, probably ½ hour for shopping. If I was not hungry and we had more time, probably would have stayed longer.

When we came out, the two of them bought me the photo that was taken before we entered. The editing that they made to the photo was not that great but it’s the thought that counts. I was right in the middle when both of them were looking into each other with the look. The let’s-buy-the-birthday-girl-the-photo-look.

I’m not into badmouthing any big restaurants so I’ll just call the place –Bad Service Place—

Sum it up, there was barely 4 tables of customers at that time. Our plain water came in 10 minutes, Dna was denied side dish even though it was clearly written in the menu, our waiter have language problem and totally spaced out and the table ordered after us got served first.

My chocolate, Dna's banana and Jo's vanilla muffins.

Not a good dining experience. So yeah,

Aquaria experience – 8/10 expectation.

Lunch – 4/10 - service can be improved.

I'll be eating for the next few days, I'll look like a walrus. No, there’s no walrus in Aquaria. More plans coming right up.

Down the drain

2011-08-13T00:05:00.000+08:00

Hate it when I created a whole blog post in my head with clever words and interesting stories in the shower but when I sit in front of the computer, my mind went blank.

*sedih*

Most unhealthy

2011-08-11T15:46:00.000+08:00

When I just hit puberty, there was only one guy in my mind. Constantly, always. He was an unhealthy obsession, he was a total distraction from what I was supposed to do - focus on my education.

Back then I felt like no one understood what I was going through, how I felt and everyone was against me. He was the love of my life *roll eyes*

I spent lots of time daydreaming and thinking of him. It came to a point where I thought if I don't marry him, I won't marry anyone else. I was insane - I was trapped in this illusion of my own world.

He is 11 years older than me. I thought love conquered all this age shit thing. Sheesh. How pathetic could I be.

Now I'm older and of course I knew better. How I laughed at myself - how stupid I was back then but I would call it a phase of my life. That was me back then - that was how I learned and how I grew up.

He's now 35 and I dunno what happened to him - now I'm older, I no longer go crazy over him but I know what I want now.

Dad confessed that he almost sent me to a psychotic ward back then, that's how bad I got.

So future me, remember where you came from .. and being a teenager ain't all that bad.

Future daughter , mummy's been there so come and talk to me about it k?

;)

What's the deal?

2011-08-08T09:28:00.003+08:00

Monopoly deal!

When my brother asked me to buy him this card game right before Chinese New Year, I hesitated because I knew he liked those strategy games and I hate them. I tak suka pakai otak in games but I bought it anyways. After learning the game and what is it about, I got addicted to it. So did my cousins because that’s all we played during the whole new year.

If you think it’s like the conventional Monopoly game with the big board, the dices, the decision cards and the long wait for a winner – you are wrong. Monopoly Deal maintains the elements of the game – the property card, the rent card, the cash and those sly cards that could either let you gain or lose cash.

The aim of the game is simple yet tricky – get three full color sets and you win. It’s a game combination of strategy and luck which means I also have the chance to win.

Each card sets comes with property cards, cash cards, rent cards and action cards. New players might be shocked to hear that in Deal, you don’t get your cash change back.

Oh, the currency of cash is million so it makes you feel richer in some sort of twisted way.

How addictive is this game anyway? It’s spreading!

I taught Melvin how to play the cards, few days later we taught San how to play. Then Jos joined in and got addicted. During our KK stay, Mira picked it up. Recently Su joined for a round or two. Then Brian was taught how to manipulate with his cards.

The game is so easy to learn – by second round the light bulb will go off in your head .. *ting – light bulb sound effect*

Need more convincing?

Size: - It’s just cards – travel pack, slip it in your purse and you’re ready to go

Game play:- Everyone has a chance to win, not just those brainy ones or those manipulative ones

Capacity:- 2 to 6 players

Game time:- In my experience, 25 minutes at most for one round

Price:- Unlike the Monopoly board, Deal is only RM 19.90 sold at ToysRUs and toy corners in Jusco

In a competitive way, this is how you bond with the people around you and it’s good clean fun with lots of laughter.

As I put it in San’s now famous quote about the game

“Even if I keep losing, I still want to play”

Two sides of my phone

2011-08-07T15:02:00.002+08:00

After nearly two months of using my aria, here's my list of the two sides of the phone (in comparison with my old Nokia phones)

The cool stuff.
* internet is accessible therefore cut down screen time with laptop
* many helpful apps to help in daily life
* big screen which I like
* whatsapp saves sms money

The boo stuff.
* battery needs to be charged daily - battery consumption is huge as I use regularly
* not used to walking and sms ing as screen is sensitive to touch. Can't type without looking anymore
* audio and alarm clock not as clear as previous phones
* no suitable data plan as I would like to keep my current prepaid plan but their data plan too expensive

posted from Bloggeroid

Dining in DragonOne

2011-07-31T19:30:00.001+08:00

Location : DragonOne

Objective : Dinner

Last Saturday I went for dinner with kayokai sisters - courtesy of Auntie who belanja us because we are so guai.

Had no time to snap much of dinner because I was busy tasting various dishes. Surprisingly the food was delicious. Everything my chopstick touched was yum worthy. Then again, I am no food critic or fussy eater. Or maybe I have magic chopstick.

Managed to snap only desserts.

Durian! Everyone around the table is a fan of the king of fruits. Within minutes, the dish is empty.

Then there's the sinful yummylicious dessert.

I was put in the spotlight when Eunice revealed that it's my birthday that's coming up soon so the tiramisu cake became also my birthday cake.

My slice of cake .. with my carrot orange juice.

I'm not a carrot fan cause I don't like the smell but combined with orange, it's all good.

Dinner ended in two hours and we all left the restaurant happily. Sometimes it's about getting together to plan how to make a meeting work but once in a while, we should put down the responsibility carried on the shoulder just to kick back and be girls.

For the sake of the girls privacy, no photos of them.

Kota Kinabalu trip

2011-07-23T14:04:00.004+08:00

Location : Kota Kinabalu

Objective : Trip!

If there’s one person travelling in the group who is worried about the size of the luggage and the strictness of liquid allowance in plane cabin, it would be me.

** longest blog post ever – heavy text and photos ahead

After a long day at work, I went back home to put away my working equipment (ceh! laptop only la) and quickly finished packing for my trip tomorrow. Between last minute items grabbing, squeezing every space possible and worrying about luggage size, I was running late to meet San in the train on the way to Putrajaya.

Managed to make it on time and the journey to stay overnight early morning at Jos’s place was smooth. Reached at 11pm. By then I was feeling reluctant and tired and homesick, the same feeling I got when I had to leave to Kelantan back then.

I ~~slapped myself~~ .. no la, I mentally slapped myself and said .. this is a vacation yo! Then I felt pumped.

This trip had been planned 5 months ago. This time we’re flying to the West of Malaysia. My first time. (sad but not so sad also)

************************************************************************

Okay, it’s time to go to Kota Kinabalu (KK).

Location :- In between trains

9:30 pm – 11 pm :-

Rushed like mad out of the house. Caught 10 pm train. First time going to Putrajaya at night on train. First time taking escalator at train station (tu pun nak cakap).

Waited for Jos a while. Can’t believe it’s been almost 7 years since I last stood at the same spot to go Kelantan *mengelamun*

So long de never seen Cyber in it’s night glory. Reminded me of MMU days.

Location :- Jos house

11 pm – 12: 40 am :-

#1. The beautiful garlic light

Tour around Jos’s house, repacked my luggage and played few rounds of Monopoly Deal where San lost terribly repeatedly. Muahaha. I stole her money and her properties.

12:40 am – 3:40 am :-

Slept off on the couch. Woke up by alarm. Snooze. Woke up by Jos declaring good morning cheerfully. She’s excited to go home. I’m sleepy. Cannot snooze her pulak.

3:40 am – 4:40 am :-

It’s inhumane to be up this hour! Groggy. Bummed around. Makan sekeping biskut.

4:40 am – 5:15 am :-

Mira and friend came to pick us 3 up and drove to KLIA. The roads were empty. There was a dog.

Location :- KLIA

5:15 am – 6:20 am :-

Gathered Su and Brian before checking in. Breakfast at KFC.

#2. Muka orang tak cukup tidur/ tak tidur

My breakfast looked nothing like the picture. It’s hideous I did not snap any photo of it and just nom the burger down. It’s a cold morning and I’m feeling sleepy yet excited.

My new cabin luggage decided to make itself into a sports car, vrooming loudly everytime I dragged it around. Bisingnya. Ada wheel but kena carried most of the time. Damn you bag yang dimanjakan.

6:20 am – 6:40 am :-

Almost the last one to board plan. oops. Inconsiderate idiots took our seats claiming they made a mistake. Rrrrriight. Saw them shifting to another seat before takeoff. Idiots.

#3. The sun rising early in the morning

6:40 am – 9:15 am :-

Sat in between Su and San. Slept in flight for one hour.

#4. The clouds are so flufffyyyyyyy

Woke up with neck pain and then only discovered seats can be lowered. I’m so hopeless. Jakun idiots. After that cannot sleep anymore because too excited. Plane landing was not smooth but usually I don’t care cause dah mendarat.

WE HAVE ARRIVED!!

Location :- Taliban

9:15 am – 10 ++ am :-

Met Jos’s family who actually drove another car to the airport so we can have our own tour with our first class tour guide :- Jos the local girl. Went for .. ~~brunch? Late breakfast?~~ Second round breakfast at Taliban Mamak Centre (no association with any terrorist).

#5. Food came fast

Naan cheese and ice C tea special. (cheh, translation) which tasted like a combination of tea tarik and cendol.

#6. Tandoori chicken + Naan + Special drink

Location:- Yayasan Sabah

10 ++ am – near 12 pm :-

I dunno what is the function of the building but it’s a tourist spot. Saw some tourist posing in front. Drove to the side and walk through a broken piece of the fence to take in the view of the majestic sea. *breathe fresh air*

#7. Abandoned sampan sitting forever alone

#8. Brian yang emo

#9. Me, San, Su and Mira gazing out far into our future .. cheh ..

then went to the front to pose like tourist. Eh, we are tourists also ma.

#10. Doing the tourist thing - super Su

Location :- 1Borneo Mall

12 pm – 1:30 pm :-

Jos dropped us in front of the hotel. Brian left next door to his hotel while we were told our room was not ready. NoOoOoO! Walked to the mall – buy water for the next two days.

Tried the mall massaging chair – jakun case no 2, I never knew they worked. So many malls in KL area and I ignored these chairs all the time.

#11. Bebola daun near the massage chairs

Decided to go back to hotel lobby to wait – too tired to shop or look around .. just want .. drop dead on comfy bed with cold air con *squeal*. Dah la Su did not sleep the night before.

1:30 pm – 3:00 pm:-

Got lost looking for our room – like 10 minutes! Ok la, melebih pulak .. 5 minutes. The room did not disappoint. Beautiful. Just nice for our family of 4.

#12. Our cosy room .. everyone gets their own sleeping space!!

Then I picked the corner bed, only to realize I’m isolated. Oh no.

Mira mentioned my bed is like the East of Malaysia ( Semenanjung ) and theirs - 1 double and 1 single stuck together was like Sabah Sarawak – West of Malaysia. FINE. Isolated. (I’m not mad or pissed, I just like to pretend I am)

Location :-Coconut and lokan street

3:00 pm – 4:30 pm (perhaps?):-

#13. Gerai tepi jalan - drizzling

Cannot sleep. Too excited. Bed is comfy shit. Su sleeping. Shh.

In the end, we left Su alone ~~on purpose then she woke up and cry cause we left her alone to sleep~~ cause she’s going out with a friend. Brian also parted ways with us (alah, sound so sedih je). Jos took me, Mira and San out – initial plan to look at heads fell apart cause the sky cried. (the plan, not the heads fell apart).

So we went to the second best place – coconut stall. Tummy was growling again by then. Shared a packet of Asam Maggi with San.

#14. Maggi Sabah taste the same like Maggi KL .. lol

Like totally wth right, fly across the sea, endured neck pain, paid for 3 star hotel and sleepless night to eat Maggi.

#15. Kelapa .. kepala .. coconut yumminess

Shared coconut water (or is it juice?) and coconut pudding (sedap! I don’t care cough or not, makan je!)

#16. Lokan with chilli

Ordered lokan panggang (roasted seashell – heh? I googled translation but macam not right je) – it’s something shelly – oyster looking thingy, I dunno.. I know nutz about seafood. I ate one and I don’t like seafood smell but San upped me – she ate one and she’s a vegetarian!

Vacation huh, everything must try ;)

Jos turned the car around to let Mira get down to find ubi bergula/bermadu (sweet honey potatoes?)

#17. Ubi with honey spread all over - 2 pieces

so me and San got a little bit crazy when we saw chicken by the grassy road side. Hen with two baby chicks. Say aww! Ini macam budak terlalu bandar never seen chicken.

# 18. Do you see the chicken????

#19. Mira happy cause dapat beli ubi

I takut the baby chicks would golek into the drain.

Location :- Karambunai beach

4:30 pm – 5:40 pm :-

It’s beach time!

# 20, 21, 22 - Walking towards the beach

Today we walked by the beach without our footwear. Jakun case no 3, when you stepped on the wet sand, the water beneath your feet dries off. OoOoO.

#23. Our feet in the sand

Then we had foot sand war :- me and San plopped each other’s foot with wet sand then we teamed to plopped kakak Mira.

#24, 25 - Taking photos of our feet .. and the beach

It’s actually more fun than described. Yey. It was a beautiful windy evening, after the rain.

#26. Photographer being photographed

Chasing to photograph tiny crab, you would think the crab is Lady Gaga.

#27. Can you spot the little crab?

Still excited – looking forward for tomorrow’s adventure.

Oh funny man sitting beside the steps – probably a foreigner was video recording panning 360 around him while he held his phone with a song on top of the camera. No need to edit and include song in de.
Quirky but funny.

#28. Traditional bamboo pengangkut air to wash our sandy feet

Location :- Seafood restaurant

5:40 pm – 8:15 pm :-

Collected Su from the road side .. really .. by the road side. Had dinner with Jos’s family. No photos cause shy.

#29. The only photo of dinner - we all malu malu la

Usually I would hound the food with my camera like paparazzi. Nice dinner. I had two sweet sour prawns and one fried squid. Nothing to brag about there, ahem.

Variety of delicious food. I like the special sayur manis (sweet veggie?) with the belacan. Nice. During dinner, smiled politely and kept nodding cause we all very shy girls *uwek*

Location :- Suria Sabah

8:15 pm – 10:20 pm :-

Dropped at the mall – decided to go for singing session while Jos watched movie with her old buddies. RM 40 per head – no AmpSquare – that is too expensive. Tsk.

Walked about – like girls do – touched everything in sight (at least I did la). Su’s friend from earlier came to see her again and since he’s on his way passing our hotel – he offered – so we went back to rest.

Location :- Courtyard hotel

10:20 pm – 1:30 am :-

Everyone showered. Now we all smell like flowers. Opened San’s Twisties and played Life : The Card edition. After Su slept, me and San taught Mira how to play Monopoly Deal – then San helped Mira win yo! Apa ni. Classic moment :- when San started rambling about her card. You must be there to see it, damn funny.

Then we played Crazy Old Fish War :- Card game. I never played before so we learned together. Fun le. By 1:30 we slept off. Too tired. The day felt long.

17 JULY

Threw my blanket over the bed and sat up cause we’re late for breakfast – it’s so sunny out there. Omg. Look at clock. What?

6:45 am – 8 am:-

It’s not 7 yet? The sky is so bright – I thought it must be at least 8! Sat up and laid back down several times while waiting for Su to come out from the shower. Now let me tell you a bit about our hotel room.

The good :- Comfortable nice cosy environment, bed, fridge, bathroom etc .. the essentials

The bad :- TV reception was a little fuzzy but tolerable, no study table, bathroom is hard to lock

Went for breakfast. Not much choice but makes a decent meal, a la buffet. This is breakfast fit for king, says me.

#30. Breakfast variety tak banyak tapi at least ada breakfast kan ..

Sunblocked arms. Feels confident. Come at me sun! I challenge you!

Location :- Gaya Market

8 am – 9 am ish :-

The market here is pretty reasonable. Not expensive. Just nice.

#31. Nak beli tapi tak nak beli ..

Spent too much time surveying but ended up with some key chains to take home. Did not explore whole market as we were also rushing for time to go island hopping *excited and scared*

Location :- Jesselton Point and Manukan island

9 am ish – 12 pm ish :-

#32. Oh thank you for welcoming us

I hate myself for a moment. For one year I been carrying my student card and not being able to use it except for one movie. Today I get to use and where is my student card? Sitting in my pink bag, at home, on the East of Malaysia. Argh. Sad. Dah la I sengaja took it cause I wanna make my wallet less bulky. *bang head on wall*

Sat on boat – my first time!

#33. *goyang goyang* *pening*

Super scared but kept smiling .. cheh .. berlagak cool je. Boat was rocking left right upon getting on. Priority was life jacket. Boat ride was kinda fun actually. Relaxed as the salt water splashed on me. Wee.

So we arrived at the first island. Let’s make it quick and simple :

Su and Mira went snorkelling, me and San laid back, Jos was with camera

#34. Su eager to masuk air

I got bitten by red ant on my left big toe (very important sangat)
We moved our bags three times from table to table
Some inconsiderate idiots were nearby – please stop behaving like animals

Location :- Mamutik Island

12 pm- ish – 2:30 pm- ish :-

#35. This one - sword fish ah?

Boat came and took us to another island. This one has nice clear water so we decided to join in the fun. I sat at the edge like a log and let the waves hit me repeatedly with their saltiness. Water went in my eyes, nose, ears and I swallowed some. Salty!!!

Went to rinse self – let me tell you .. the toilet ain’t pretty and the floor was darn dirty. There’s no place to put my bag so I *tahan muntah* had to put my bag on the floor. Hey, don’t judge me. I have sand in my pants, no matter what I.NEED.TO.RINSE.

No way am I getting out and cari another bathroom cause there’s a gazillion people lining up behind me.

Luckily, this is a small consolation but my bag is made of leather or something like that but not cloth so can wash.

Waited for boat to come. He’s ½ hour late. By then, we were all tired and worn out de, maybe because we were beaten repeatedly by waves of sea water. The water is super clear and clean though.

Oh we saw iguana. Budak bandar nampak iguana ambik video.

Location:- Sapi Island

2:30 pm- ish – 4:00 pm :-

#36. Cantik tak laut .. cantik kan??

The final island to explore.

#37. This island got more signs than others ..

This time we were so tired we just sat down on log, chairs and cement block like old ladies and have a good time laughing and talking. We had our fake chicken floss – actually it’s sugar something but not sure what is it called

Okay, just a small bit. I’m usually touched by humanity. This is what happened. I was lining up behind these bunch of female – the queue was outside the bathroom when suddenly this auntie who was standing at the edge of the door asked if I just want to use the bathroom cause she thinks I can go ahead as the queue was for those who wanna shower. I made my way in and just mumbled about going to the toilet so that they would respect and knew that I in no way was cutting their shower room queue.

Thank you so much auntie. It might be something small but it meant a lot to me. *big smile*

Mira took a proper shower on this beach but me, Su and San had already rinse before.

#38. Sea urchin .. cute until they prick you

Location:- Tanjung Aru beach

4:00 pm – 7:00 pm :-

The boat ride back to mainland was bittersweet for me. In some twisted way, I had grown fond of the boat rides. Perhaps it’s the wind in my hair that made me feel like I’m in a Pantene commercial. Wee. Part of me was relief – cause tired from island hopping.

We went for dinner. Yey. Dinner. Hungry again de. Well, didn’t eat anything during island hopping except for a raisin bun and a mini muffin. Our food arrived pretty late – I was getting a little cranky but you know what they say , a hungry girl is an angry girl.

#39. Appetizer - satay chicken and beef

Mira’s food came the last but it was like the grand finale – sizzling chicken which was basically still smoking like some tear gas canister (I’m not melebih lebih this time) I’m serious. Everyone was staring at our table. Sayangnya, no photo of that.

After our food, we walked to the beach to catch the sunset then the gang noticed something. I challenged the sun and I got burnt. NoOOoO! I dunno how it happened – I barely went under the sun. Natural blusher for the face.

Beautiful sunset – we kept snapping photos. I think this would be the 5^th beach I went to in these two days + the island beaches.

Bought some snacks for tonight’s party. My definition of party is just playing cards. How tame am I.

Location :- Perdana Park

7:00 pm – 8:00 pm:-

Stopped by to watch the musical fountain where the water fountain moved accordingly to the music that was being played. It was lovely. It reminded me of belly dancing – how graceful the water moves.

Jos went in for second show while we were in the bathroom so we followed suit before we headed back.

Saw a car with those bumper sign that reads

[Nice to see, nice to follow, once you bang, considered sold]

Wth, it doesn’t rhyme. *annoyed*

Location:- YoYo Cafe

8:00 pm – 9:30 pm:-

Jos brought us here for pearl milk tea – it took us a while to decide what to drink but when it came – omg .. so sedap.

#40. Our yummylicious drinks .. *drool*

Yam-gasm milk tea with pearl. I wanted to bring it back to the hotel but I kept drinking it.

San screamed into my ear – that girl is trying to make go deaf.

Location :- Courtyard Hotel

9:30 pm – 1:30 am :-

Suddenly the day has come to an end. We came back with a heavy sandy bag each. Took a proper shower and settled down to play cards again. Taught Su how to play the fishy card game and then we groaned and moaned and threatened cause San kept winning.

We finally had our sweet ubi thingy and some potato cracker. Vacation la alasannya. Diet buang luar tingkap.

I actually planned to stay up tonight but I think I’m old de cause I kept sleeping off midst late game. .. old lady. Tomorrow we’re gonna have a long slow breakfast cause got no plans in the morning.

18 JULY

Refused to be fool again by the sun outside – my alarm rang at 5:30 am and I thought to myself. Ah~ work alarm. I am not in work. People are all working and here we 6 are, across the sea still on vacation. Muahaha. *evil laugh*

“Jaz, tak nak makan breakfast ke?” Su woke me up.

Of course I want. The sun tipu one. I’m sure it’s only like 6 something.

“Dah 8:30”

AHHHHHH ~~ breakfast :D

Location :- Cafe

9:00 am – 9:50 am :-

Om nom nom nom nom. Om nom nom nom. Super hungry la this morning.

I ate the most this morning.

Location :- Hotel room

9:50 am – 12:10 pm :-

Laze around like ular sawa lepas makan. Golek golek. Brian came over to drop his bag since he checked out de. Jos came over to play cards with us. They taught her the fishy game while I go mandi. It’s spreading!! The fish game is spreading ~~~

Last minute packing and it’s adios hotel. You had been a pleasant stay for the 4 of us. We enjoyed ourselves but please fix the toilet door. I iz sad whenever I checked out from hotel – phase 1 of saying bye bye to vacation.

#41. Bye bye hotel ..

Location :- The coconut and lokan place again

12:10 pm – 2 pm :-

Since Su and Brian (oh look, Brian’s back!) didn’t join us two days ago, we went for second round. This time another stall but same menu.

#42. Worth the penny

Plus a special order – burnt coconut which did not taste that yummy.

#43. Old coconut on a plate

Tasted wrinkled.

This time San did not eat any lokan – I tried one again. Squishy siputy lokan.

#44. This time chilli tak self service but sedia ada

Oh coconut pudding~ sedap.

Location :- Filipino Market

2 pm – 3 pm :-

#45. Giant swordfish figure near the market

Mira slept in the car. Keke.

We came here to get some souvenirs for the people back home. Lots and lots of little stalls cramped into one and most of them are expensive – I seen cheaper at Gaya street the day before. Most of them sell the same things anyways – key chains, sarongs, t-shirts, jewellery, handicrafts, seashells.

I managed to buy some things though. Overall, I’m happy. I wish I have the luggage space to buy more stuff though.

Location :- Sabah Golf Country Club

3 pm – 5 pm :-

Jos had to put us somewhere (sound like barang ) while she goes home to pick up her luggage and asked her brother to drive all 6 of us to the airport – because cuti dah habis. *sedih*

Had ~~lunch~~ ~~tea~~ early teaner food. This morning I nom nom lots of breakfast food so not too bad, just had club sandwich.

#46. Sandwich yang sedap

Just like yesterday Mira’s food came last – the waiter forgot her order.

Lepak kat the bathroom/locker room. San very amazed – showed me the shower cubicle which had no lock at all. Then I’m also amazed. Doo dee dum.

Location :- KKIA

5 pm – 9:30 pm :-

Jos’s brother dropped us at the airport .. thank you Jos brother! Went to check in and did some tourist photo posing. My bags were super full – I had to tumpang space from San.

Mira left her rings at the golf club bathroom. Mata bergenang with tears de.

Lepaked around the waiting area.

#47. Sunset at the airport

Just wanna go home and rest at the moment or rewind the moment so it’s holiday all over again.

When it was time to board the plane, we were given second priority, right after family with kids. Luckily our seats are the second last ones but before take off, everyone was sitting wherever there are empty seats.

Phase 2 of saying bye bye to vacation.

#48, 49 - View from the plane - Can you spot KLCC ?

Tried to relax and get some sleep but some family with a kid moved to our behind – thus noise and knee kicking at the back of the seat. Half of the time me and San were grumbling like old ladies.

Tired, exhausted, sad that vacation is over – tried to nap but tak jadi.

Location :- KLIA and onwards

9:30 pm – 11:00 pm :-

Once reached KLIA, I didn’t want to leave in a solemn sleepy tired mode so I decided to race my sports car luggage against their trolley. Laughing like maniac while Brian walked off first in a matured manner.

Su went off first – then Mira took Jos home. Me and San took the ERL. Dude at the counter told me to take Express .. but but but .. I don’t want to ride alone *sad face* so I told him I ada teman.

The train ride was not too long – reached before 11 actually. San got off a station before me.

Last phase of saying bye bye to vacation.

Now I JUST WANT TO GO HOME.

Upon reaching home, I mass message the other girls whether they are home – Su was dropped off so nothing much to worry, Jos’s housing area is kinda quiet so wondering she reached home de not and San had to change train upon reaching earlier said station. Mira was on the way back home after buying dinner .. supper?

It’s been 7 ~~years~~ hours since I had that sandwich. Apa lagi, sampai rumah.. nom nom nom ..

*************************************************
Whew, took me 3 days to write this because it was a fun needed trip in the midst of our work. Breaking routine is a must.

Will I go to Sabah again? Definitely.

For the coconut pudding, the yam milk tea and maybe get on the boat again.

Planning for the next vacation now.

* will do a photo post later, photo overload and blogger ni cacat sikit

photo credits to :- jddphotos, p.san_studio, mirA-clicK.inc, jazLfotoz

One year later

2011-07-15T13:39:00.001+08:00

Actually this plan to surprise Jos for her birthday was ahead by one week. We thought we could pull off the surprising birthday pizza party but failed.

Well, she didn't know about the pizza plan but she sniffed a rat. We ordered 4 regular pizzas and had an awkward happy birthday song (don't worry, it's tradition).

Also, we were celebrating our first year of working together. We all came in at the same time, same day last year. It's been exactly one year since then.

I got sick that night from fever.

Then two days before heading to KK , the office had a mini celebration for those May to August babies which means I was included. The celebration had to be pushed ahead due to the fasting month in August.

We had various flavours of ice cream and some ice cream cake. It's nice to break the routine of work sometimes with a delicious treat.

I was recovering from the previous week sickness but I took a risk and just enjoyed my ice cream.

credit photos to :- jddphotos and mirA-clicK.inc

Sick

2011-07-09T12:49:00.003+08:00

So finally,

The body admitted defeat. The last time I was down with sickness - little sniffles and half day coughs does not count was last year Christmas eve.

My first MC for the whole year and I spent the two days sleeping, eating and watching re runs of Malcolm in the Middle.

Next weekend is a big weekend. I have to get better.

End of the month - self realization

2011-06-30T23:42:00.000+08:00

I been busy lately, blogging has been the last thing on my to do list. Well, almost last.

Once you start working there's half of your day gone. Then you have to spend the other 12 hours dividing it between your awake time and your sleep time.

I been so unhealthy lately, only getting about 5 hours of sleep per night. Several nights I had been dozing off while I was reading rage comics on my mini screen.

When it comes to weekend, I tried to put family and social life forward but it usually becomes lazy sleepy time for me. Blogging no longer becomes something I plan anymore, there's no time slot in my calendar for blogging like it used to.

Juggling work, him, Gakkai meetings, business, social life, family and then my own personal stuff. Whew.

Well, I love my job. I have nothing to complain about there. I have no problem with him - yet it's a little disappointing when I can't do anything much when we're hanging out together as he looked at me struggling to keep awake with understanding eyes.

My room is in a mess - I can't find the right mood or the right time slot to actually clean it with an open heart. My role as a sister is to take care of my sister's studies so instead of reading my own novels, I'm reading her history book.

Yet each day I wake up with hope because without hope, there's no life. There are things to look forward to, challenges to face. Life goes up and down - it can't stay up or down all the time.

Starting tomorrow, July comes. It's time to shift into a fresher gear.

I miss writing. I miss reading. I have to fight and make time to keep these on before I lose my identity. Nobody is forcing me into anything, it all depends on me now.

I have so much more to learn - so much more fundamental darkness to conquer - such insecurities which has to be vanquished. I'm sure you do too.

Let's fight and be victorious together.

Ok, I need to get to bed. Tomorrow is a big day. *cross fingers*

The early mall trip

2011-06-26T22:00:00.001+08:00

Location :- Tropicana Mall

Objective :- Just to hang out

It's been so long since I saw Alicia and Karyn. Partly because I started working. The last time I seen both of them together, as I recalled was Karyn's birthday .. one or two years ago.

As usual, we went to the mall earlier than normal people. Then we loitered around and waited for the shops to open - breakfast.

Egg toast. Oh yum yum. Always my favorite.

Then we had to wait for nearly two hours to get our milk pearl tea. It was worth the wait though. Let Karyn chose my first tea.

Yey, three cups of pearl milk tea.

Then we went to Vivo's. This time I had panini again. Still as good. Still delicious.

Look, it's Alicia in dreamy mode. We spent 3 hours in the shop to use their wifi. This is what technology has come to - facebooking each other while we sit in front of each other.

Once in a while, I need to meet up with these girls.

The sky is no longer the limit

2011-06-22T23:20:00.001+08:00

Anything is possible. Just wanted to share a photo I took of the sunset.

Stay tune for more nature photos.

posted from Bloggeroid

Busy bee

2011-06-16T20:33:00.001+08:00

I been so busy lately I have no time to blog anymore. Last week and this week had been hectic. Aside from eat sleep and shower , I was buried in front of the laptop. I even worked one day at home. I used to grumble about the weight of the laptop but after the whole sprained foot and cutting travel time to work so I can have more time to work. I dunno what I'm talking about, half sleepy. Gonna shower and get back to work.

Luckily he understands and supports me all the way just as I took consideration when it was his busy hours.

So that's what up with me for the past two weeks. Excitedly typing this on my new phone.

I'm not gonna complain over this cause youth is the time for challenges , time to build character.

posted from Bloggeroid

A new gadget arrived

2011-06-14T14:05:00.002+08:00

After few months of deciding, research, doubts, guilt and endless questioning I finally got myself a new phone.

Well, me and San actually. We went to Pyramid after I done some research.

First stall tried to sell us phones at their original price when they first came out. Trying to cheat our money like that.

Second stall did not have my phone but had San's phone. However, I was skeptical cause the warranty was not original. I would never buy a non original warranty phone anymore. Here's why.

Once bitten, I'm not stupid enough to go for a second time.

Third stall we actually arrived at the official store itself. After much negotiation and discussion, I was happy with the price.

Then the opening of the package. It probably did not look like it but I was observing the opening of the package. Just to make sure it was original from the right dealer.

Passed. I'm extremely happy and excited about my new phone.

Yet, I love Sleek. Sure, I love Aria now too.

Yes, I got myself the baby of HTC - the small one and I like it just the way it is but most of all, I'm happy I bought it myself at the original HTC authorised dealer.

Official warranty for HTC :- SiS

What is happiness?

2011-06-05T22:03:00.004+08:00

Why doesn't constant trampling defeat the dandelion? The key to its strength is its long and sturdy root, which extends deep into the earth. The same principle applies to people. The true victors in life are those who, enduring repeated challenges and setbacks, have sent the roots of their being to such a depth that nothing can shake them.

- Daisaku Ikeda -

I have such a great mentor in life.

No entry

2011-05-29T20:42:00.002+08:00

I'm sensitive. That's well known. I can just be super pissed and bear grudges if you comment an issue that is beyond your boundary line.

Above that, I hate to be stress. Even worse than that, I hate stress that I can do nothing about. Well, if you can do something about it part of the stress is gone. I don't understand why I felt like I'm being punished for something I didn't do.

I used to think I'm quite a public person but at this moment, I realized that no matter how public I am I just can't stand sudden invasion in my life. I don't like surprises and I don't welcome spontaneousness. I like to plan and make sure things go according to A to B to C.

I cannot take this - I cannot just sit down and risk myself and my plans for nothing. I'm at the busiest at work now and I have trips coming up. I cannot.

I cannot think anymore. I want to cry. I'm stuck in the middle. I can't go front and I can't go back. Can I just stay away as long as I want? Do I have to resort myself to really staying somewhere out there?

Gah, I hate invasions. I have my plans and damn it, I will not allow anyone to destroy it.

Quote numero uno

2011-05-25T23:51:00.001+08:00

- A leader leads by example. If I'm not showing a good example, how do I expect others to listen and follow me? -

a piece of advice for me to put in my pocket. ;)

Where's my inner obsessive nutcase?

2011-05-23T17:37:00.004+08:00

Earlier today I was talking to him and as I kept talking, I was recalling back ~~the times when we held hands and dance around in the field~~ the crazy old me.

That particular period when I was still in uni, final year. Somehow I burn out after a few months and now I need to find that crazy bitch in me again. Don't get me wrong. The crazy bitch does not step on you with her high heels or throw kettles aiming at your head.

Perhaps that's the crazy bitch in some other girl but not me. I was a health conscious nut back then - for a few months. Some of the things I used to do or tricked my mind into thinking it's healthier were :-

* Lunch every day - hostel mix rice ( zhap fan ) . There's one in HB 2 and one in HB 4 where I scoop 3 - 5 table spoonful of rice and put lots of veggies. Self control rice zhap fan = WIN!

* Dinner every night - absolutely no rice cause no zhap fan. Something soupy or chapati or dhal curry with bread.

* Noodles over rice. Soup noodles over fried noodles. Less oily

* Oats for breakfast

* Fruits for dinner dessert

* If I want to take something else than water (temptation still exist), I opt for lime juice - not so sweet but still refreshing

* Sunflower seeds (kuaci) for snacks

* If I'm in PMS-mode-might-kill-if-no-chips, then I'll go for keropok, not the over salted potato chips in a tube or the one that comes with half bag of air

* No nasi lemak

* There were dinner weekends where I just had popiah

* Fibre bread rather than plain white bread. Not as smooth but healthier

* Research on Starbucks different coffee calories then decided to get none

* No fast food, no junk (cept on PMS mode)

* Strictly 3 meals per day

* If hunger strikes between meals, either fruits or yogurt would do

* Choose chapati over roti canai (oil free!)

* Comparing calories between two packets of cookies

* Stayed away from fried and oily stuff as much as possible

Looking back, maybe I was a little obsessive back then but it was not too much of a suffering. I sort of enjoyed it. I do slipped once in a while - a packet of nasi lemak once a month or box drink instead of lime juice.

Then the concrete seal above all :-

* Drag my lazy ass up 7 am on Saturday for jogging

* Safer option, running in the hostel room or up down the stairs - Jo came in and caught me once, the room was hot, heated and stank of my sweat.

Oh yea, the feel of sweat running down the side of your face and the dampness on your back. I loved every minute of it. I know I sound like a dude now but hey, I'm being honest.

One year ago, I slipped and I never got back on the health train again. The lazy demon finally conquered me and made me raise my white flag as I sat my fat ass down with a doughnut.

Then excuses came pouring in.

"Oh a little wouldn't hurt"

"I'll go jogging next week. I'll sure to go" never did

"Chinese New Year is coming up .. it's normal to eat"

Guess what? Chinese New Year was 3 months ago. It's time to find the road back again - to be fit again. For my health, for myself and for him. So that in the future, I can be the trophy girl he can have.

I don't like the feeling of my pants being tight and my tops shows off my shameful bulges. :( I want thin strong legs again. I want to be able to put on previous tops and smirked at myself in the mirror as if to say "Well done, this looks perfect on you". I want all that again.

Since I can't run just yet - foot still healing and hurting just a little, I shall start with what I can control. Food.

After today's KFC lunch (prisoner's last meal la), dinner will be simple and healthy.

Here's to healthier living. Starting.. NOW!

Arr .. late movie night

2011-05-22T21:07:00.003+08:00

Location : Mid Valley

Objective : Movie

Last Thursday, I followed my bunch of colleagues to Mid Valley because we have a movie date together. What movie did we watch? Pirates of the Caribbean 4 : On Stranger Tides.

Upon reaching Mid V about 6 pm + we headed off for dinner. Lost for choice, ended up in Madam Kwan's.

Mira dropped me and San first since she's going home to rest before the movie. Nabil didn't join us for dinner as he went wandering around after prayers.

Dinner was pleasantly quiet - I was actually stuffing food into my mouth and ignoring everything else around me. Perhaps I was hungry or perhaps because Toys R Us is next door.

I want to get HedBanz the game! Last week in KLCC, I couldn't find any there so I tried Mid V too.

The kiamsiap person's drink - complimentary plain water

Prawn dumpling soup with noodles. Must eat with a bit of chilli or else no kick.

After dinner, we went to Toys R Us but don't have the game I want either. Why don't have already!!! Soon we all part ways. San and me went to Jusco this time. Lol. It's like I found something special to do with her.

Like Jo and me go to Giant, Karyn and me go to early morning movies, Alicia and us eating chicken and so on. Me and San go to big chain hypermarket to look for food.

Our movie started at 9:30 pm officially and ended near midnight. This by far was the latest movie I ever watched.

I'm usually a morning / before lunch movie goer.

The downside of movie night - tomorrow is Friday ~ working day.

By the end of the night, I was exhausted and just want to curl in bed to sleep.

The ship in the middle of the court. I wonder how much does it cost to build this. Too many people were taking photos with these props. I was busy looking for the other half of my colleagues.

Oh, what do I think of the movie?

Since I didn't watch the first 3, I would say it's interesting and I'm giving it 3/5. Not really my genre though. It's okay.

2 movies in a week. What's next?

Helping the gift hunt

2011-05-16T22:36:00.000+08:00

Location : Pyramid
Objective : Purchase present

Jo came and took me out to get a gift for someone. It's better to have someone to consult when you're out shopping, especially when you want to get someone a gift.

Despite my injured foot, I still hobbled around for two days. Everyone keep telling me to walk slower but I don't want to walk slowly cause the limp would look more apparent.

After nearly two hours to get the perfect gift, we went for dinner.

This is our drinks. Iced coffee and honey lemon tea.

I ordered appetizer for us to share. Glutinous rice. My favorite but too little.

My dinner :- keow teow with fook chok and tauge.

Jo's dinner :- dry curry mee

It was fun to hang out once in a while. I bought something for him. I bought something for me. Can't wait to see him appreciate it.

Ah ~ holiday. Tomorrow I'm off from work to rest my foot.

Runway alien

2011-05-14T21:09:00.001+08:00

Location : KLCC

Objective : Movie

Seeing them 5 days is not enough, I even see them during the weekend. Last week, I already promised my colleagues a movie the following weekend so even though my foot was still in healing process, I limped to where I was supposed to be.

The movie that we wanted to catch was " Paul".

Thought they might censor some stuff but it turns out everything was on full display.

What I had for lunch was a simple vegetarian pizza which I shared cause I had a slight sore throat which I secretly blamed him. I can't help it though cause I was the one who wanted to be close to him.

After the movie, I did a little shopping. Let's just say, there are some certain food which I didn't think I could buy before but now I could. Yey me.

I had sore foot when I get home. Worth it.

Outside lunch

2011-05-12T17:23:00.000+08:00

Although we have our free lunch at work, once in a while under circumstances we traveled out and in turn have lunch outside.

Yup, just some random food photos of food outside during lunch time.

Happy Mummy's day

2011-05-12T15:33:00.002+08:00

It's that time in May again. Mother's Day!

Last year, we celebrated by ordering pizza, giving our mom a beautiful necklace then making her sick with the pizza the next day. FOL.

This year, we decided to order pizza again. You might think it's wtf but it's totally a family decision. A huge family decision.
The first weekend of May, resting my injured foot and sending my minions (bro and cousin) up and down the stairs to confirm, inform and finally dish out the cash for the pizzas.

6 pizzas for less than RM 100. Ka - Ching.

Everyone was too busy wolfing down Dominos, all we could say was "I'm so hungry" "This taste so good" "Is there anymore?"
Following up from the pizza weekend, (mom didn't really get sick) we decided to have a Mother's Day dinner before grandma goes back home so we went to Esquire Kitchen.

I don't remember if I tried it before.

Chinese tea for most of the family. It's cheap and refillable. *kiamsiap*

Fried wantan. Absolute kids favorite with sweet sour sauce.

Veggies are good for your health but fat thick ones make me cringe. Dislike veggie juice.

Chicken curry but I can't help looking at the oily surface.

This reminded me of the question from my colleague some time ago. How do you eat with this small bowl using chopsticks? I usually use my sticks to pick up food that are bigger.

My favorite of all time, tofu .. bean curd!! Tofu never disappoint, perhaps I should go try the famous smelly tofu.

By the end of the night, my chinese tea had been converted to self made ice lemon tea by inserting leftover lemon from the lemon chicken dish.

The next day, we went out for lunch at Papa's cafe. I never heard of it before but let's make it our own simple official Mother's day lunch.

Brother's squid fried rice but being a rice pot, this was not enough.

My chicken ham carbonara with mushroom. I only like button mushroom so the big ones were abandoned.

The sister's usual western choice. She never gets tired of it.

Dad went with the traditional wantan noodles.

Mom took some slimy noodle .. yee mee style ..

Been eating so much, time to lose weight for him. Oh and me :)

How was your Mother's Day?

Hello future me!!

2011-05-11T09:40:00.001+08:00

Remember last year you wrote a virtual letter to yourself

Well, one year has passed so the question is :- what has changed?

You graduated with a degree and you got a job. Yey! After struggling for 5 years in MMU (which you miss occasionally), you are already working for about a month before graduation. It's only the beginning and there's still so much more to learn but be grateful for the benefits. See, recently when you sprained your foot, you don't have to limp to work, take MC off or sacrifice your time off. Instead you can work from home and rest your foot properly.

Speaking of foot, since you sprained it there's so many things to consider, so many things you took for granted. Just stepped on the scale and realize you put on xxxx kg. Where have your exercise routine gone? Where is the satisfaction of sweat running down your face gone to? Ever since you started working, your health has been somewhat abandoned. Sure, you go to bed earlier now but you need to find the crazy girl who compares calories between two cookie packet again. Well, a bit.

You gone soft on yourself cause there's someone who pampers you now, right? You let yourself enjoy the cookies and the chips cause you found someone who just wants you to be happy and to smile. He's not just a short term consideration, if possible he's the consideration for the long run. Let me know in a year whether you guys are going out yet.

Wedding, kids, pets and the future all depends on him and you right now. Where are you guys heading and how will you progress towards the future so don't fret too much about it now.

Speaking of boy in life, how bout Jo? Yes, you guys worked together then separated. You were sad, you cried but you know it's better to be apart than to drive each other crazy being too close everyday. You guys now have separate life but still tight right? Keep the candle burning, a friendship of 12 years is worth preserving.

Working means you're earning and you are handling your finance quite well. Slowly but surely you're able to pay up your PTPTN loan.

Lastly, congratulations on becoming a leader in Gakkai. It's a small step but the right way to grow. It's time to be mature and help out more. No longer would you always sit in meeting, time to get hands on to help handle meeting.

So, this are your plans approaching 24 years of age. Let me know if there's any changes next year.

Much love! <3

Life is drawing without an eraser

Resolution for Feb

Two years later

Fire of prosperity

Dong dong chiang!!

Dragon dinner

Double layer surprise

An inch taller

Starting the new year

2012 resolutions

The special place

Annual dinner

Singing the blues away

December wedding

December candles

Happy super early birthday

Zzz

Baby green

A student again

The first music note [MyDeal]

11.11.11.11.11.11

The calendar turns

A glowing challenge

Pizza party version 2.0

You're worth the fight

Western lunch

Pamper yourself [Groupon]

Lucky gold

Big Bad Wolf Sale 2011

Solving a hairy situation [Groupon]

Cubicle

Uphill climb

Slapped

The way

The first wedding

A twist within a surprise

Heritage city

Making grandma happy

Board games day

"Buka puasa" dinner

With his heart *edited*

The view in Putrajaya *edited*

Then I turn a year older

A moment on the lips, forever on the hips

Creatures of sea and land

Down the drain

Most unhealthy

What's the deal?

Two sides of my phone

Dining in DragonOne

Kota Kinabalu trip

One year later

Sick

End of the month - self realization

The early mall trip

The sky is no longer the limit

Busy bee

A new gadget arrived

What is happiness?

No entry

Quote numero uno

Where's my inner obsessive nutcase?

Arr .. late movie night

Helping the gift hunt

Runway alien

Outside lunch

Happy Mummy's day

Hello future me!!

With his heart edited

The view in Putrajaya edited