Merry Christmas, dear friends!
This Christmas is different from the last... and certainly isn't like any of the rest. I saw a lot of my friends, even had a christmas lunch for the extended families at home. I met up with many different people, met new people... and my friend list on Facebook seems to be getting longer!
Syndy is back, so we went out to celebrate with a simple dinner (with Adeline). And coincidentally, we met Nathan, Waiwai and Alex on the eve too. It's a rare occasion, and it makes this festive season an even more special one.
I also MMS-ed (after testing out my MMS last month) greetings to some whom have 3G (MMS enabled) phones... I was quite disappointed when nobody MMS-ed me back because I would love to get one on my new BlackBerry. And then, one of my friends replied... apparently with a handsome picture of himself. Thanks Dennis.
The annual Xmas gift exchange has been always fun. I loved some of the stuff I received and as usual also got some crappy stuff. I decided that next year, I shall not set a budget and also not name who to do it with. Sometimes it's more meaningful to just give and receive without expecting one in return. That way, I reckon that person won't be "forced" to buy something for the sake of the "promise" or "budget". It will also be an eye-opener to see how much your friends understand you to get you something you want/need/like! So get ready for it!!
Syndy said we should set our 2010 resolution. Somehow I can't think of anything... These couple of years, I didn't set any. I only know that I hope I have a fresh new start in everything next year and able to forget the things I should forget... or maybe should I say accept them the way it is! It's weird the more you want something, the more it won't come... the more you want it to go away, the more it won't... the more you want to forget it, the more you won't... God, you're so mean :(
My sisters are both enjoying work-free days till 2010. Poor me will be the only one waking up for the next couple of days for work. Work wanted to extend me for the next 2 months... and I haven't decided. But I probably might... just need to sort something out for myself in the near future. x Fingers crossed x
28.12.09
22.12.09
Raining through my mind
Rainy Monday night.
So sleepy. Wanna sleep. Wanna write. So much on my mind. Filled with ideas. Occupied with things I wanna do. Gotta find time to do. Only if there's 30 hours per day, another extra 6 more to sleep. I could do much more. I wanna finish fixing the bag I was sewing. That laundry I have to handwash. The gifts I haven't wrapped. That competition entry I haven't had a chance to think about.
The rain was splattering, a wind was blowing. They stopped. Ground is wet, air is still. I hear the planes leaving. I wanna go.
Painful ulcers. I have two. Where did they come from, I don't know? Too much Nutella or Kim chi overdose?
Laying in bed... listening. No one is talking. Only the fan blowing. My bedside streamers trembling. Then I heard the plane. Noisily passing through the clouds. I wish, I wish I am traveling somewhere again.
Tired. Tomorrow is another day.
Rain, rain, come again, come and stay another day...
So sleepy. Wanna sleep. Wanna write. So much on my mind. Filled with ideas. Occupied with things I wanna do. Gotta find time to do. Only if there's 30 hours per day, another extra 6 more to sleep. I could do much more. I wanna finish fixing the bag I was sewing. That laundry I have to handwash. The gifts I haven't wrapped. That competition entry I haven't had a chance to think about.
The rain was splattering, a wind was blowing. They stopped. Ground is wet, air is still. I hear the planes leaving. I wanna go.
Painful ulcers. I have two. Where did they come from, I don't know? Too much Nutella or Kim chi overdose?
Laying in bed... listening. No one is talking. Only the fan blowing. My bedside streamers trembling. Then I heard the plane. Noisily passing through the clouds. I wish, I wish I am traveling somewhere again.
Tired. Tomorrow is another day.
Rain, rain, come again, come and stay another day...
20.12.09
Eating craze
Invited yet again to another buffet... I lost count of the number of times I ate buffet since November! My stomach enjoys it, but not my expanding waistline. Thank God, I could still fit in a (decent size) pair of new Uniqlo jeans. Also another reason I don't enjoy buying jeans because they almost never seem to fit me nicely except for one pair of Levi's. Decided to reject the dinner and burn my calories by going in and out of fitting room... another therapy not very ideal for my wallet but good for the soul.
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New Windows 7: Find the right PC for you. Learn more.
13.12.09
遇见怪脾的人 (11) - Ti Ko Pek twins
Seems like it is getting common nowadays we get a lot of roaming eyes from these kinda people in the MRT. Why did our cultures cultivate a lot of these uncles with such perverted craving to look at women whom showed some flesh. I mean it's normal to look at pretty women, but looking with that lustful look is simply disgusting. Spotted in west-bound train.
甜蜜的一个下午
The infamous signature dessert @ Tampines 1's Kopitiam.We call it Chendol but it's more known as Cendol (derived from Indonesia). At S$2.50, it looks pretty decent for its size and a very attractive presentation. In Malaysia, it's definitely much cheaper and also made differently from Singapore. Sister recently visited Malacca and told me it's only less than RM2 over there, which is barely S$1.
The red beans are larger than normal; I love the palm sugar syrup on shaved ice... Being contained in a tall glass also makes it difficult for me to eat with the ingredients separated by different layers. I guess it's a challenge then? LOL. The green noodles-alike things, apparently no name for them, used to be my favourite part of Chendol when I grew up... Now I have outgrown it though I still like this dessert. As I grow up, I begin to like lesser of coconut milk too, except when it's in curries.
Beware: It can get pretty "sweet" by the time the ice melts and settles on the bottom in a brown mixture! To prevent sugar overdose, finish it before the temperature rises.
The red beans are larger than normal; I love the palm sugar syrup on shaved ice... Being contained in a tall glass also makes it difficult for me to eat with the ingredients separated by different layers. I guess it's a challenge then? LOL. The green noodles-alike things, apparently no name for them, used to be my favourite part of Chendol when I grew up... Now I have outgrown it though I still like this dessert. As I grow up, I begin to like lesser of coconut milk too, except when it's in curries.
Beware: It can get pretty "sweet" by the time the ice melts and settles on the bottom in a brown mixture! To prevent sugar overdose, finish it before the temperature rises.
iPhone war
I just realised at least 30% of my friends on Facebook possess an iPhone! Is this touchscreen phone by Apple really so spectacular or many simply can't resist the temptation?
Few days ago, Starhub and M1 finally started to sell iPhone after successfully sealing the distribution deal. SingTel no longer dominates the local iPhone market... I was walking down Orchard Road Tuesday evening, the day before the two service providers launched iPhone. Promoters carrying baskets of green apples were giving out them out to spread the message. It's a cute idea by Starhub, but someone had used this before. I remember getting a free green apple during a beer promotion, I can't remember the brand now but they were promoting the new green apple flavour.
I felt a bit retarded asking myself why Starhub chose green apples, before I soon realised red ones would have represented SingTel! M1 wasn't doing anything though but I reckon they already have a list of loyal customers queueing up for them. If M1 was to use "apple" promotion too, they would have to coat caramel on the apples - probably the closest thing I can think of ;)
Look at the pictures I captured of the green apple. I actually thought they really did something to the inside of the apple!!! But to my disappointment, the star they meant was actually the apple core when cut into halves.
For people eyeing an iPhone, probably now it's the best time to get one with the competitive rates offered by all the 3 service providers! SingTel has also adjusted their plan prices accordingly!
Few days ago, Starhub and M1 finally started to sell iPhone after successfully sealing the distribution deal. SingTel no longer dominates the local iPhone market... I was walking down Orchard Road Tuesday evening, the day before the two service providers launched iPhone. Promoters carrying baskets of green apples were giving out them out to spread the message. It's a cute idea by Starhub, but someone had used this before. I remember getting a free green apple during a beer promotion, I can't remember the brand now but they were promoting the new green apple flavour.I felt a bit retarded asking myself why Starhub chose green apples, before I soon realised red ones would have represented SingTel! M1 wasn't doing anything though but I reckon they already have a list of loyal customers queueing up for them. If M1 was to use "apple" promotion too, they would have to coat caramel on the apples - probably the closest thing I can think of ;)
Look at the pictures I captured of the green apple. I actually thought they really did something to the inside of the apple!!! But to my disappointment, the star they meant was actually the apple core when cut into halves.
For people eyeing an iPhone, probably now it's the best time to get one with the competitive rates offered by all the 3 service providers! SingTel has also adjusted their plan prices accordingly!
29.11.09
This recruitment consultant is an idiot
I always can't wait to extend my weekend... but this weekend, I'm actually hoping for Monday to arrive sooner. BECAUSE I want to yell at someone! My recruitment consultant is a pain in my ass... I don't know what's wrong with this job agency (or probably just this person) because I always have had pleasant experience with them till recently. First, she told me I do not need timesheet because I'm being paid on a monthly basis. At the very last minute, I received an email dated nearly a week ago, asking me to fill them up and send it back to her. I'm not being paid overtime, paid hourly or absent on any days, even if I was, my company would promptly informed the agency, so what the hell am I filling it for? So I sent them an email asking them WHY, because I was told I don't need them! Next, comes the pay day, and they actually paid me nearly 40% less than what I am supposed to get for the month. I am almost fuming, I really wanted to ring her up and yell in her face. She should count herself lucky she hasn't given me her mobile number, else she wouldn't get herself a peaceful weekend. So beware on Monday!!!!!!!!!!
26.11.09
The salty sour plum challenge
We have a new director.
And we think he's dutch.
He spontaneously chewed that piece of super salty sour plum in his mouth when I offered him.
How adventurous!
It amused and amazed us all.
We heard him coughed, the salt must have choked him dry.
I nearly tear finishing off mine.
My french director didn't take the risk.
The men do and don't.
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And we think he's dutch.
He spontaneously chewed that piece of super salty sour plum in his mouth when I offered him.
How adventurous!
It amused and amazed us all.
We heard him coughed, the salt must have choked him dry.
I nearly tear finishing off mine.
My french director didn't take the risk.
The men do and don't.
New Windows 7: Simplify what you do everyday. Find the right PC for you.
"Der" love of my life
My BlackBerry. My baby.
The one.
I found him and life suddenly seems complete. Just like the "auto-complete" function on google search. It's an instant connection, wonderful chemistry and complementing combination.
I figured him out without the help of a manual. To be honest, I haven't even used a BlackBerry before him nor did I try the phone out. All I know is that I have been waiting for him after I read all about him. And immediately I knew. He doesn't take the best pictures yet he is already everything I am looking for. He wakes me up in the morning, entertains me in the train, feels good in my hands, writes down my thoughts late into the night and whenever he's by my side. How can I ever ask for more?
Although I sometimes pressed "s" as "a" and occasionally pressed the wrong key when typing out a sms because I thought I was still on a normal numeric keypad phone... but I've more or less adapted and now he's an important part of my life. Before him, I was thinking how well I was surviving without a phone, but since I had him, my life has since changed.
There is love in my life now;)
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The one.
I found him and life suddenly seems complete. Just like the "auto-complete" function on google search. It's an instant connection, wonderful chemistry and complementing combination.
I figured him out without the help of a manual. To be honest, I haven't even used a BlackBerry before him nor did I try the phone out. All I know is that I have been waiting for him after I read all about him. And immediately I knew. He doesn't take the best pictures yet he is already everything I am looking for. He wakes me up in the morning, entertains me in the train, feels good in my hands, writes down my thoughts late into the night and whenever he's by my side. How can I ever ask for more?
Although I sometimes pressed "s" as "a" and occasionally pressed the wrong key when typing out a sms because I thought I was still on a normal numeric keypad phone... but I've more or less adapted and now he's an important part of my life. Before him, I was thinking how well I was surviving without a phone, but since I had him, my life has since changed.
There is love in my life now;)
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23.11.09
Before I say good night...
I just downloaded "dictionary.com" application for BlackBerry and I'm loving it!
Today we celebrated grandma's birthday, I actually don't remember how old she is. Geez, feeling ashamed now but I suppose around 80! Most of my cousins were there today and we were comparing our new gadgets. From BlackBerry Bold to my BlackBerry Curve, Sony Ericsson walkman phone, Nokia music edition to Nokia E63 and E71, not to forget iPhone... We have it all.
Happy Birthday Oma! And also Happy Birthday to November babies, i.e Boonsiong and my big sister. Enjoy the next year of your lives;)
(edited 01/12/09 - picture added)
New Windows 7: Simplify what you do everyday. Find the right PC for you.
Today we celebrated grandma's birthday, I actually don't remember how old she is. Geez, feeling ashamed now but I suppose around 80! Most of my cousins were there today and we were comparing our new gadgets. From BlackBerry Bold to my BlackBerry Curve, Sony Ericsson walkman phone, Nokia music edition to Nokia E63 and E71, not to forget iPhone... We have it all.
Happy Birthday Oma! And also Happy Birthday to November babies, i.e Boonsiong and my big sister. Enjoy the next year of your lives;)(edited 01/12/09 - picture added)
New Windows 7: Simplify what you do everyday. Find the right PC for you.
Fruitfully fulfilling
It's 3am, Saturday. This week has been never-ending busy. Spent 2 days working with the team till 6am in the morning rushing for the site launch. It's finally up! I am actually quite surprised that my small capacity still contains such stamina similar to 8 years ago - when we stayed in school rushing our final year project. The sense of achievement is very satisfying but unlike years ago, I actually see my effort being recognised and hopefully contribute to all the end users whom will be accessing the website. At the company dinner on Friday evening, our team was given applause by many others who were present and I realised the hard work in the past 2.5 weeks has been worthwhile:) Unlike the last job, I have been once again blessed with a wonderful boss. The team readily agreed to do the extra hours, and imagine all the fun doing it together. What a spontaneous crowd and a good bonding time!
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New Windows 7: Find the right PC for you. Learn more.
16.11.09
When work is tiresome...
Another super tiring week ahead... yet for once, I'm not dreading it. This has to be the most intensive 2.5 weeks in my recent years that I have worked this hard, every hour and almost every minute and even working overtime willingly. However I did not want to sacrifice my weekends (they wanted me to), I can't slave for 7 days a week because I know I would be totally unproductive and I don't want them to make this mistake. I even offered to work from home but the situation and lack of equipment didn't allow it to happen. I can finally understand the exhaustion of the people who worked all day and nights, even on their blackberries. It can kill. And so I'll be giving my best till end of this week before the launch! Hope I get a less stressful month after this!
I miss writing, I miss blogging... I have missed recording down my entries simply because I couldn't even keep my eyes open many of these nights. But I assure I will try to, now I have a wifi-phone! Oh yes, need to strike that off my wish list :)))
Good night all! Let's brave through the week and celebrate when it ends!
I miss writing, I miss blogging... I have missed recording down my entries simply because I couldn't even keep my eyes open many of these nights. But I assure I will try to, now I have a wifi-phone! Oh yes, need to strike that off my wish list :)))
Good night all! Let's brave through the week and celebrate when it ends!
10.11.09
Mobile blogging
I have decided that blogger isn't the most friendly mobile blogging tool and now I have resorted to sending this to an email that will publish it almost immediately for me. Too bad, though hotmail is definitely much friendlier, it doesn't do word wrap!!
This is something I've been wanting to try for the longest time. To be laying in bed and writing a blog entry as and when I feel like it without having too much hassles. Sorry Toshiba baby, I'm really too exhausted from ten hours of computer monitor but rest well because I'll work you hard on other days.
Even though typing on a BlackBerry isn't exactly the fastest thing and I would be typing ten times faster with a keyboard! I want to write about this wonderful gadget I got (also my new man, that's what I usually refer to them as) and about this plan I took up with M1. Maybe I'll just come online afterall. LOL.
p.s: Those in italics are corrected after I come online on Toshiba (hurray baby!).
Windows 7: Simplify what you do everyday. Find the right PC for you.
This is something I've been wanting to try for the longest time. To be laying in bed and writing a blog entry as and when I feel like it without having too much hassles. Sorry Toshiba baby, I'm really too exhausted from ten hours of computer monitor but rest well because I'll work you hard on other days.
Even though typing on a BlackBerry isn't exactly the fastest thing and I would be typing ten times faster with a keyboard! I want to write about this wonderful gadget I got (also my new man, that's what I usually refer to them as) and about this plan I took up with M1. Maybe I'll just come online afterall. LOL.
p.s: Those in italics are corrected after I come online on Toshiba (hurray baby!).
Windows 7: Simplify what you do everyday. Find the right PC for you.
Jealousy kills wi-fi
Seriously, I'm typing this with my new BlackBerry while it's charging. Ever since I got this new gadget, my laptop starts to get screwed.
It honestly hates rivalry I guess. Especially with something lighter, smaller and slimmer. Please don't throw me tantrum Toshiba baby, you're just as precious as BlackBerry baby. Now you're punishing me by cutting me off the wireless umpteen times and making me type like a snail crawling up a tree! Gosh, I wanted to hate you but come here to me, I will give you a cuddle. We'll be fine tomorrow, okay?
Windows 7: Simplify what you do everyday. Find the right PC for you.
It honestly hates rivalry I guess. Especially with something lighter, smaller and slimmer. Please don't throw me tantrum Toshiba baby, you're just as precious as BlackBerry baby. Now you're punishing me by cutting me off the wireless umpteen times and making me type like a snail crawling up a tree! Gosh, I wanted to hate you but come here to me, I will give you a cuddle. We'll be fine tomorrow, okay?
Windows 7: Simplify what you do everyday. Find the right PC for you.
9.11.09
DOUBLE YAY
YAY for my friend's kid, Charmaine, to have cleared her scans! YAY for Blackberry Curve 8520 to be out on the market finally (with M1). YAY YAY!!!!
p.s: I'm not too sure when I'm getting or should I wait longer.. but no, I think the wait has already been long enough!!
p.s: I'm not too sure when I'm getting or should I wait longer.. but no, I think the wait has already been long enough!!
31.10.09
For my lucky-to-be readers
Click here to learn a new skill. And no, this is NOT A SPAM.
This entry is a bit short, so I decided to write a little story about my own experience to top it off ;) And somehow I do think this article is quite true. When it describes tense people, I do see a lot in my social circle... People that says "No" instead of "Yes" a lot... People whom seem to have a routine and typical lifestyle and never motivated to make any change to it when they obviously wish to. So come on, take this step and make yourself lucky!
Recently, I became one of the unlucky people when the company that offered me a job is pending the confirmation. That initial thought of being lucky converted to being unlucky. I got stuck in a rut, but before long, I decided to open my options again. Jobs called me up and I decided not to say "No" to them even though I wanted to say it to one of them. I just wanted to give it go and have a chat (interview) even if it doesn't end up with anything. It was a good way to get out, have some fresh air, talk to new people... So I said "Yes" to all. And indeed, still with a pending offer, now I do have more options. I think having a positive and open mind really helps... So this is going to be the way I'll be seeing life in!
This entry is a bit short, so I decided to write a little story about my own experience to top it off ;) And somehow I do think this article is quite true. When it describes tense people, I do see a lot in my social circle... People that says "No" instead of "Yes" a lot... People whom seem to have a routine and typical lifestyle and never motivated to make any change to it when they obviously wish to. So come on, take this step and make yourself lucky!
Recently, I became one of the unlucky people when the company that offered me a job is pending the confirmation. That initial thought of being lucky converted to being unlucky. I got stuck in a rut, but before long, I decided to open my options again. Jobs called me up and I decided not to say "No" to them even though I wanted to say it to one of them. I just wanted to give it go and have a chat (interview) even if it doesn't end up with anything. It was a good way to get out, have some fresh air, talk to new people... So I said "Yes" to all. And indeed, still with a pending offer, now I do have more options. I think having a positive and open mind really helps... So this is going to be the way I'll be seeing life in!
27.10.09
✮ Dunas ✮
Thank you Ridz... who brought a bunch of us to this stunning performance at the Esplanade named Dunas (World premiere in Singapore).
In it are María Pagés (Spain) and Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui (Belgium), the performers, dancers, artists and choreographers. Beautiful music by composer Szymon Brzoska (Poland) and Rubén Lebaniegos.
Starting from 2nd left: María, Sidi and Szymon
I have never attended a dance performance in the past, so didn't know what to expect and definitely didn't bring any along. Came back a wiser person, more appreciative of arts, definitely inspired about how emotions can be such a crucial factor in developing concepts and bringing art in a form of expression.
“The two of us, María and I, are enthused about exploring the desert we have before us”. With these words, Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui sums up the show which, side by side, he is going to stage with bailaora María Pagés. The show, in which the Belgian-Moroccan’s contemporary dance and the Sevillian’s flamenco dancing will dialogue with one another, is entitled ‘Dunas’. It will be performed from November 18th to 21st at the Teatros del Canal in Madrid, in the setting of the 2009 Autumn Festival.
-- taken from & copyrighted by http://www.flamenco-world.com
Flamenco is expressed through the toque -- the playing of the flamenco guitar, the cante (singing), and the baile (dancing).
-- taken from & copyrighted by http://en.wikipedia.org
Contemporary dance is a genre of concert dance that employs systems and methods found in modern dance and postmodern dance.
-- taken from & copyrighted by http://en.wikipedia.org
Watch Dunas to enjoy the following:
- how the desert is being portrayed with pieces of fabric
- how beautifully the music complemented the dance
- Maria's expressive arms movement and stomping of the feet
- how Maria grew into a tree
- Maria's very beautiful and colorful flamenco costumes
- Sidi's fingers doing up amazing, witty, inspiring sand drawings (both his hands can do symmetrical drawings!)
- Sidi's very flexible body movements
- how silhouttes interact with each other with clever use of lightings
- a very emotional and visually expressive performance
- be inspired --> Art is a form of expression --> phrase digested
- i wish I'm a dancer too
Catch more of Da:ns Festival 2009 performances at Esplanade from 23 Oct till 1 Nov!
p/s: pic is up!
In it are María Pagés (Spain) and Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui (Belgium), the performers, dancers, artists and choreographers. Beautiful music by composer Szymon Brzoska (Poland) and Rubén Lebaniegos.
Starting from 2nd left: María, Sidi and SzymonI have never attended a dance performance in the past, so didn't know what to expect and definitely didn't bring any along. Came back a wiser person, more appreciative of arts, definitely inspired about how emotions can be such a crucial factor in developing concepts and bringing art in a form of expression.
“The two of us, María and I, are enthused about exploring the desert we have before us”. With these words, Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui sums up the show which, side by side, he is going to stage with bailaora María Pagés. The show, in which the Belgian-Moroccan’s contemporary dance and the Sevillian’s flamenco dancing will dialogue with one another, is entitled ‘Dunas’. It will be performed from November 18th to 21st at the Teatros del Canal in Madrid, in the setting of the 2009 Autumn Festival.
-- taken from & copyrighted by http://www.flamenco-world.com
Flamenco is expressed through the toque -- the playing of the flamenco guitar, the cante (singing), and the baile (dancing).
-- taken from & copyrighted by http://en.wikipedia.org
Contemporary dance is a genre of concert dance that employs systems and methods found in modern dance and postmodern dance.
-- taken from & copyrighted by http://en.wikipedia.org
Watch Dunas to enjoy the following:
- how the desert is being portrayed with pieces of fabric
- how beautifully the music complemented the dance
- Maria's expressive arms movement and stomping of the feet
- how Maria grew into a tree
- Maria's very beautiful and colorful flamenco costumes
- Sidi's fingers doing up amazing, witty, inspiring sand drawings (both his hands can do symmetrical drawings!)
- Sidi's very flexible body movements
- how silhouttes interact with each other with clever use of lightings
- a very emotional and visually expressive performance
- be inspired --> Art is a form of expression --> phrase digested
- i wish I'm a dancer too
Catch more of Da:ns Festival 2009 performances at Esplanade from 23 Oct till 1 Nov!
p/s: pic is up!
How come can forget?
I am very surprised I didn't write about Phantom of the Opera which I watched for the 2nd time in Singapore. First one was back in London. Wondering what was I so pre-occupied with then... but still memory remains fondly of the one I had in London. Not to say that Singapore's wasn't anything impressive, it was still a good show. I enjoyed good company, with champagne and got Phantom bear as a souvenir - it was all good.
Pardon my singlish title which I really feel like once in a while!
Pardon my singlish title which I really feel like once in a while!
小猫咪 Angel
The purring has stopped... Where is the little kitten? I hope he* is safe somewhere. *I don't know its gender so I will just use the default as a "he".
Last night, I was tossing in my bed amid my sleep when I heard his cries. Like a baby. His murmuring lulled me to sleep. This morning, I actually forgotten all about it until the whole afternoon I thought I was imagining sounds. And no, I wasn't. Just out of curiosity, I turned to Dad and asked,"Did you see a cat?" He said yes and he was trying to chase it away this morning. I was pretty sure he was still around, I heard him the whole time.
I went out to inspect the surrounding including my neighbours' but didn't catch any sight of him. Mum and sister came home. I finally convinced myself he was out somewhere very near to us when both my mum and sister heard his purring too. Mum and sister do not like cats much, but still they were with me, we got to save this kitten (if it got stuck somewhere). We were on a mission to rescue!
I don't know why my hearing can be so sensitive! I heard him in the master bedroom and Dad never heard a thing when he sat in the lounge and was so much closer. I walked out of the door, followed his cries. Sis imitated the purring and he actually responded... and I found where he was! At the extreme corner of the building - my neighbour's cabinet, I freaked out when I imagined him being locked inside. Out of desperation, I went back into the house and asked for help. Mum came along, knocked on neighbour's door... Fortunately, she was around. She said it has happened a couple of times the cats would hide under her cabinet. Phew! As long as they are not inside!
She put on her gloves and was ready to join our rescue mission. Everyone was crowding near the cabinet but I stood metres away. Just as she put her hands down under, everyone let out a scream, he jumped right out almost at the speed of light! I swore, very fast. He ran and ran. I still heard him purring, now more frightful than before. He was obviously in shock. Poor him!!! I could imagine everyone had been chasing him around, and the poor cat got to hide. Now we found his hiding place and he got to hide again. I saw him hiding behind the pipes at the stairway.
He's beautiful and tiny. Not very tiny but small enough. His tail is black at the tip, looks like he has it dipped in black paint. The rest of him is white, like an angel.
He was frightened, extremely frightened. I wished I could hold him, stroke him and tell him he's okay now! I went back home and filled up a small container of water. I guess he must be hungry or thirsty by now. Sis went up to put it near him, before we knew it, he escaped. He ran right past me. Very fast. He hid himself. Poor kitten! I don't know what else to do but to leave the water somewhere he could see, hopefully he would drink it.
Some minutes ago, I heard his purring again. But I also heard my neighbour chasing him away. He's a stray cat and I know nobody at home would let me keep him. Just as I am finishing this entry, I heard him again... Poor kitten, please don't be fearful because you have nothing to be afraid of!
Last night, I was tossing in my bed amid my sleep when I heard his cries. Like a baby. His murmuring lulled me to sleep. This morning, I actually forgotten all about it until the whole afternoon I thought I was imagining sounds. And no, I wasn't. Just out of curiosity, I turned to Dad and asked,"Did you see a cat?" He said yes and he was trying to chase it away this morning. I was pretty sure he was still around, I heard him the whole time.
I went out to inspect the surrounding including my neighbours' but didn't catch any sight of him. Mum and sister came home. I finally convinced myself he was out somewhere very near to us when both my mum and sister heard his purring too. Mum and sister do not like cats much, but still they were with me, we got to save this kitten (if it got stuck somewhere). We were on a mission to rescue!
I don't know why my hearing can be so sensitive! I heard him in the master bedroom and Dad never heard a thing when he sat in the lounge and was so much closer. I walked out of the door, followed his cries. Sis imitated the purring and he actually responded... and I found where he was! At the extreme corner of the building - my neighbour's cabinet, I freaked out when I imagined him being locked inside. Out of desperation, I went back into the house and asked for help. Mum came along, knocked on neighbour's door... Fortunately, she was around. She said it has happened a couple of times the cats would hide under her cabinet. Phew! As long as they are not inside!
She put on her gloves and was ready to join our rescue mission. Everyone was crowding near the cabinet but I stood metres away. Just as she put her hands down under, everyone let out a scream, he jumped right out almost at the speed of light! I swore, very fast. He ran and ran. I still heard him purring, now more frightful than before. He was obviously in shock. Poor him!!! I could imagine everyone had been chasing him around, and the poor cat got to hide. Now we found his hiding place and he got to hide again. I saw him hiding behind the pipes at the stairway.
He's beautiful and tiny. Not very tiny but small enough. His tail is black at the tip, looks like he has it dipped in black paint. The rest of him is white, like an angel.
He was frightened, extremely frightened. I wished I could hold him, stroke him and tell him he's okay now! I went back home and filled up a small container of water. I guess he must be hungry or thirsty by now. Sis went up to put it near him, before we knew it, he escaped. He ran right past me. Very fast. He hid himself. Poor kitten! I don't know what else to do but to leave the water somewhere he could see, hopefully he would drink it.
Some minutes ago, I heard his purring again. But I also heard my neighbour chasing him away. He's a stray cat and I know nobody at home would let me keep him. Just as I am finishing this entry, I heard him again... Poor kitten, please don't be fearful because you have nothing to be afraid of!
23.10.09
Yes or No?
Uncertainties.
I have to live with it for a couple more days and keep my options open. After that afternoon I deemed very lucky, the luck slowly faded away... The confirmation they gave me is now pending. My life seems to swirl around in circles, while I have found the exit and sat by it. Ready to jump out whenever necessary. That nod or no from the USA will determine my fate. I am playing hangman, with the possibility of being hanged. I am not the most pessimistic person, nor am I the most optimistic. I weigh possibilities and I see them. I have had expectations and disappointments. But if you don't place too much emphasis on either, then the damage will be minimized.
Not too sure how to describe the feeling, but it makes me sick in the stomach. Almost nauseating.
For now... behold the certainty of an unpredictable future. For those whom are reading, please cross your eyes and heart for me. But life will have to move on... regardless of the outcome! :)
I have to live with it for a couple more days and keep my options open. After that afternoon I deemed very lucky, the luck slowly faded away... The confirmation they gave me is now pending. My life seems to swirl around in circles, while I have found the exit and sat by it. Ready to jump out whenever necessary. That nod or no from the USA will determine my fate. I am playing hangman, with the possibility of being hanged. I am not the most pessimistic person, nor am I the most optimistic. I weigh possibilities and I see them. I have had expectations and disappointments. But if you don't place too much emphasis on either, then the damage will be minimized.
Not too sure how to describe the feeling, but it makes me sick in the stomach. Almost nauseating.
For now... behold the certainty of an unpredictable future. For those whom are reading, please cross your eyes and heart for me. But life will have to move on... regardless of the outcome! :)
22.10.09
Danke schoen
Thank you all - those whom have sent me some luck in one way or the other. God bless ya too!
Where are you BB?
I'm hopelessly dyingly eagerly anxiously miserably waiting for Blackberry Curve 8520 to be out in Singapore. DAMNIT, why is it so damned slow?????? With that, I will have one thing less off my wish list! I need to get this, because I know work will be calling me with it too! SingTel or M1, please just bring the damned phone out!!!!!!!!! I know RIM has already gotten it in Singapore.
Life will begin again @ Suntec
After a week of serious job hunting and resumes sending (6 sent in total), the whole episode has come to an end. So much faster than I have expected... In the past, I have had months of fruitless job hunting. But my life is very odd. When it comes, it comes too sudden and too quick. Just like early this year, I had the one and only interview and I landed on it. That was pretty fortunate... considering weeks before that I rejected a job offer and then the economy hit the rock bottom. This time, without high hope, I searched and filtered the jobs online. The one that I didn't expect to respond actually rang me up... I had a very brief meet up/interview (something like 5-10mins?) yesterday afternoon (since it's past midnight now) and WHHOOOPS I landed on it. That was QUICK! I didn't know what to say except that they can pay for my next holiday, why not??? It sounds like a challenging place where YEAY I will have a chance to brush up my Chinese/Mandarin skills (because I need to manage the chinese websites!), a good flexible working environment. (EDITED) Just realised that their HR is no better than any others, made me an offer and which later was pending... had me waiting for over a week with no calls & emails. Just my luck I guess! And fortunately, I didn't keep this as my only option!
18.10.09
Hair cut with a discount
I finally convinced myself to step into the salon... I was hesitating if I should just leave it to grow, but then decided against it. Walked to the mall barely 5mins from my house, I browsed through my choices. Twister (under Monsoon Group) is having a $20.90 promotion, a $5 discount from the usual price for "Wash, Cut & Blow". I used to visit Storm (also under the same group) but located 2 malls away. So I decided to give it a go.
The "Wash" was extremely professional with a head massage. They shampoo-ed my hair on the chair itself and then I was told to head to wash it off. I recalled a very weird one where they cut my hair first before washing, and I was told it works the same vice versa (I must be very easily deceived!!). Anyway, I enjoyed the whole washing process except for a few times she might have pulled a little hard... otherwise it was perfect with the complimentary massage.
When it comes to the "Cut & Blow", I was quite disappointed with the stylist (no names here as I don't want to ruin her reputation). I'm just not going to ask for her or another FEMALE stylist again... I especially dislike it when you're there just for a cut, they tried to promote you everything else (perming, rebonding, treatment or products). I guess it's normal but when customers say "NO", just respect it, else they won't come back again! She has dyed copper long hair that appear sleek, a thick plastic frames that made her kind of stylish. Casually tucked in bermudas and black stockings, she looks familiar but I do not know her for sure. During the "Cut & Blow", her attention was divided at many places, from new walk-in customers to running around the salon... and she dropped the comb, the clip... I haven't seen a hair stylist (and a LEADING hair stylist) so clumsy and unprofessional before, she didn't check with me if the length was fine or if there was anything I would like to improve to the final cut till I told her I wanted the fringe shorter. Service? What kind of service? Even when she was blowing my hair, she wasn't even concentrating. Her eyes roamed and her feet wandered. I had to wait for a few minutes in between here and there before she finally done the job. Thanks but no more!
A promotional price equals a hair cut with compromised and discounted service.
p.s: Thank God, I still look presentable...!!
The "Wash" was extremely professional with a head massage. They shampoo-ed my hair on the chair itself and then I was told to head to wash it off. I recalled a very weird one where they cut my hair first before washing, and I was told it works the same vice versa (I must be very easily deceived!!). Anyway, I enjoyed the whole washing process except for a few times she might have pulled a little hard... otherwise it was perfect with the complimentary massage.
When it comes to the "Cut & Blow", I was quite disappointed with the stylist (no names here as I don't want to ruin her reputation). I'm just not going to ask for her or another FEMALE stylist again... I especially dislike it when you're there just for a cut, they tried to promote you everything else (perming, rebonding, treatment or products). I guess it's normal but when customers say "NO", just respect it, else they won't come back again! She has dyed copper long hair that appear sleek, a thick plastic frames that made her kind of stylish. Casually tucked in bermudas and black stockings, she looks familiar but I do not know her for sure. During the "Cut & Blow", her attention was divided at many places, from new walk-in customers to running around the salon... and she dropped the comb, the clip... I haven't seen a hair stylist (and a LEADING hair stylist) so clumsy and unprofessional before, she didn't check with me if the length was fine or if there was anything I would like to improve to the final cut till I told her I wanted the fringe shorter. Service? What kind of service? Even when she was blowing my hair, she wasn't even concentrating. Her eyes roamed and her feet wandered. I had to wait for a few minutes in between here and there before she finally done the job. Thanks but no more!
A promotional price equals a hair cut with compromised and discounted service.
p.s: Thank God, I still look presentable...!!
15.10.09
Randomness X
I was hanging my laundry at 2am... (Goddamn, you must think I'm crazy to be doing it at this hour), but my memory is failing me, I had them in the machine and almost forgot about it till I was brushing my teeth. These things come with age! Anyway, as I was doing that, it suddenly dawned on me that I have so much I wanted to write... so here I am, back on the laptop in my bed, happily penning down the stories.
Mum is bitten by the travel bug. She wasn't that keen on travels after her first bangkok flight and numerous trips to Malaysia. Out of the blue, she started going on about visiting Taiwan. One of the reasons being one of her good friends is heading there... and I actually mentioned to her before it would be Hong Kong or Taiwan I would bring her - and it was Hong Kong. She's even thinking about it as she's buying lottery everytime, she would tell me,"If I win, we shall go on another family trip!" I think to myself,"Mum, I really want you to win too... Fingers crossed for you!"
Lil sis is on a work trip in Bangkok right now and out of a sudden I feel like going there for the second time. Mum, as usual, got all worried and freaked out the night before and insisted me to help her and accompany her to the airport. Like a superb sister, I managed to pack her luggage and sent her off! I am jealous, but not because she's going to BKK, but because the more you like to travel, the more you are unable to. The less you like to travel, somehow work seems to send you away. It so often works that way. God is always playing games with us... My sister is like a cute little timid mouse, and I was thinking today: When I was at her age, I was already in London on my working holiday visa and having the time of my life! Not long after I turned 24, I came back... Jesus, that is really how long it is ago! And in some months, my sister will be 24, I want her to see the world too. She's a little too tense, too stiff and uptight and I know once she gets out there, she will let it go... :)
I also read that my good friend Cyn and her kids are coping well in NY for the treatment... Hope things will turn out fine.
My wish to take my parents abroad has been fulfilled... and it is time to find my goal and work towards it. I need all the luck I can get - send me some!!!
Mum is bitten by the travel bug. She wasn't that keen on travels after her first bangkok flight and numerous trips to Malaysia. Out of the blue, she started going on about visiting Taiwan. One of the reasons being one of her good friends is heading there... and I actually mentioned to her before it would be Hong Kong or Taiwan I would bring her - and it was Hong Kong. She's even thinking about it as she's buying lottery everytime, she would tell me,"If I win, we shall go on another family trip!" I think to myself,"Mum, I really want you to win too... Fingers crossed for you!"
Lil sis is on a work trip in Bangkok right now and out of a sudden I feel like going there for the second time. Mum, as usual, got all worried and freaked out the night before and insisted me to help her and accompany her to the airport. Like a superb sister, I managed to pack her luggage and sent her off! I am jealous, but not because she's going to BKK, but because the more you like to travel, the more you are unable to. The less you like to travel, somehow work seems to send you away. It so often works that way. God is always playing games with us... My sister is like a cute little timid mouse, and I was thinking today: When I was at her age, I was already in London on my working holiday visa and having the time of my life! Not long after I turned 24, I came back... Jesus, that is really how long it is ago! And in some months, my sister will be 24, I want her to see the world too. She's a little too tense, too stiff and uptight and I know once she gets out there, she will let it go... :)
I also read that my good friend Cyn and her kids are coping well in NY for the treatment... Hope things will turn out fine.
My wish to take my parents abroad has been fulfilled... and it is time to find my goal and work towards it. I need all the luck I can get - send me some!!!
12.10.09
好一个汉堡！What a burger!
Despite the very average reviews I have read on people's blog... I am very happy that I've made the decision to visit The Hand Burger @ Raffles City basement. Thanks to BS for the little birthday treat.
They did a wonderful job, they did me a wonderful dinner. Delicious tea-smoked duck burger that not only looked good and tasted less sinful... and was accompanied by crispy juicy fries that made a very good starter. The lemonade mint I ordered was excellent, I love lemonade as much as I love mint, so it was a good refreshing combination. The only thing is it's too icy, and I get lots of mint bits left in the ice at the end... should have a "lemonade" refill on the side, that would be marvellous.
The burgers are pretty affordable, taking into account how nicely they presented the food and the prompt service. BS's tandoori chicken burger order was delayed probably due to a mistake in the order but it came soon enough to tend to his starving stomach - so all is good!
By the way, the chicken burgers tend to look huge, they seem very generous with the chicken!
They did a wonderful job, they did me a wonderful dinner. Delicious tea-smoked duck burger that not only looked good and tasted less sinful... and was accompanied by crispy juicy fries that made a very good starter. The lemonade mint I ordered was excellent, I love lemonade as much as I love mint, so it was a good refreshing combination. The only thing is it's too icy, and I get lots of mint bits left in the ice at the end... should have a "lemonade" refill on the side, that would be marvellous.The burgers are pretty affordable, taking into account how nicely they presented the food and the prompt service. BS's tandoori chicken burger order was delayed probably due to a mistake in the order but it came soon enough to tend to his starving stomach - so all is good!
By the way, the chicken burgers tend to look huge, they seem very generous with the chicken!
10.10.09
香港续集 - La Familia Fun (V)
The final day in Hong Kong.
Stranded with bowls of cup noodles we bought as "emergency food", we had them for breakfast. Mum and sis went to visit the famous Wong Tai Sin temple. I had my share the last visit and decided to sacrifice that for a few more hours of lazing in bed.
Dad, as usual, was more than happy to stay in the hotel room. I switched on the TV for him, while I had a nice bath for the 2nd and last time in Hong Kong. Shame that I skipped the morning swim. Then I prepared two cups of tea to go with the Tiramisu cake I bought the day before. Indulgence!
They returned and we checked out. Disappointed that the hotel didn't even offer us a room for the late check out at 4pm - I have read about them doing so! I also didn't like the fact that I had to pay a huge amount of deposit with my credit card when I had fully paid for the room in advance! Our flight was 8pm but the airport transfer would only pick us at 5ish. So we left the luggages with the concierge and we wandered off for lunch and last minute shopping at Festival Walk, a station away on the MTR.
Mum and dad made new friends with an old couple sitting besides them while waiting for me and sis to get some last minute souvenirs. We then had a late lunch at Wang Jia Sha, a shanghainese Dim Sum place... the food wasn't too bad at all, so was the service. Mum liked them, so did I. The little buns were yum.
We went back around 4ish, so they could just sit and relax while sis went back alone to ladies market to get a bag similar to the one I bought. Not very helpful, I had mum nagging the whole time why she wasn't back yet!
The flight was pretty full, we didn't get a chance to check in early online so we didn't get the best seats. Centered in the centre rows near the back of the plane. The Cathay inflight service was disappointing, they never responded to requests except for request to buy duty-free products! The food too was horrible... I didn't even want to finish it. We were so glad we ate Popeye in the airport before we boarded. Sis and parents took the paid buggy ride since the gate was superb far, I chose to walk myself there which took as much time as their buggy ride did! LOL.
Finally home. Oh yes, and surprisingly with additional shopping bags, we still could fit in the cab nicely!
Stranded with bowls of cup noodles we bought as "emergency food", we had them for breakfast. Mum and sis went to visit the famous Wong Tai Sin temple. I had my share the last visit and decided to sacrifice that for a few more hours of lazing in bed.
Dad, as usual, was more than happy to stay in the hotel room. I switched on the TV for him, while I had a nice bath for the 2nd and last time in Hong Kong. Shame that I skipped the morning swim. Then I prepared two cups of tea to go with the Tiramisu cake I bought the day before. Indulgence!
They returned and we checked out. Disappointed that the hotel didn't even offer us a room for the late check out at 4pm - I have read about them doing so! I also didn't like the fact that I had to pay a huge amount of deposit with my credit card when I had fully paid for the room in advance! Our flight was 8pm but the airport transfer would only pick us at 5ish. So we left the luggages with the concierge and we wandered off for lunch and last minute shopping at Festival Walk, a station away on the MTR.
Mum and dad made new friends with an old couple sitting besides them while waiting for me and sis to get some last minute souvenirs. We then had a late lunch at Wang Jia Sha, a shanghainese Dim Sum place... the food wasn't too bad at all, so was the service. Mum liked them, so did I. The little buns were yum.We went back around 4ish, so they could just sit and relax while sis went back alone to ladies market to get a bag similar to the one I bought. Not very helpful, I had mum nagging the whole time why she wasn't back yet!
The flight was pretty full, we didn't get a chance to check in early online so we didn't get the best seats. Centered in the centre rows near the back of the plane. The Cathay inflight service was disappointing, they never responded to requests except for request to buy duty-free products! The food too was horrible... I didn't even want to finish it. We were so glad we ate Popeye in the airport before we boarded. Sis and parents took the paid buggy ride since the gate was superb far, I chose to walk myself there which took as much time as their buggy ride did! LOL.
Finally home. Oh yes, and surprisingly with additional shopping bags, we still could fit in the cab nicely!
香港续集 - La Familia Fun (IV)
YESssssssss. Lantau island.
I had been wanting to visit since the last trip... but it was too short then to do so many things. And now we finally did it. It was an awesome daytrip (better than bringing mum to the casino in Macau!). But I know she wanted to do Macau too, perhaps next time. I would rather fly there than being seasick for an hour there and then back! :p
Even though sis loves the Ocean Park's cable car more, I feel unjustified for Ngong Ping 360 because to me both are just as great. They show very different sides of Hong Kong and I've enjoyed each and every snapshot I have now in my head. My parents obviously love cable car rides, I can't remember if they were ever on the ones to Sentosa even... perhaps a long long time back. All the time, they were looking out for something... their eyes peered faraway. Undisturbed.
The view on Ocean Park's cable car was magnificent because we saw mountains, greens, islands and the theme park right below. But on Ngong Ping 360, we saw a lot of nature, mountains, the airport, the giant Buddha from afar... and people walking on the path below. Crazy to imagine how far it takes to walk there when it's 15-20mins on the cable car! We didn't opt for the crystal cabin with see-through ground, because sis would have freaked out! LOL.
The Ngong Ping village is indeed very well done, pretty and well equipped. Food are available everywhere and that's a good thing! They aren't too overly pricey like most touristic places. There are some entertainment and attractions you can visit if you buy the package. The rest are just souvenir shops and tonnes of them - my parents, being religious, just had to get something!
I wandered off to see the Giant Buddha. I lost sis, as she was supposed to meet me somewhere. So I went up alone! Parents were resting somewhere slurping their noodles, while sis got lost somewhere and me up at the Giant Buddha and very thirsty. Later I realised sis didn't manage to go up because she thought we needed to buy a ticket! But it was actually FREE to walk right in, the tickets were for meal up in the Giant Buddha! I was up there for a while, the view wasn't as great as on the cable car but seeing the Giant Buddha right in your face after the 268 steps climb is something! :) It is also world’s largest outdoor bronze statue.
We hopped on the cable car soon after and spent the rest of the afternoon back at the Citygate outlets. The mall is filled with outlets of all kinds of brands from Burberry, Kate Spade, Timberland, Quicksilver to Nike. Funny enough, we didn't manage to find anything we like. I got a belt, that was it. Sis found nothing!
Time to leave Lantau and embark on another adventure. As we were leaving the next evening, I reckoned we should buy the infamous Wife Cakes or also known as 老婆饼 because I didn't want the last minute rush and panic the following day. I have already marked down the locations. So the idea was to get to Central, take a tram to Causeway Bay where we can get them at Sogo.
Excited and ready for the tram, we boarded but to our dismay I realised we were on the wrong one after I couldn't spot the street names on my map! We alighted, instead of being frustrated, we were quite pleased we finally got on the electric tram for once! We cabbed back to Causeway Bay which was a distance away, bummer! There was some tension that night as by then we were all pretty exhausted and sis was very annoyed with her fruitless shopping trip thus far. She wanted to shop but all dad wanted to do was to sit down and eat! Food was the only thing that kept him motivated. We were also carrying huge bags of wife cakes and it seemed stupid to walk with those. Sis didn't want them to go back on their own because she was being a big mummy again. So I convinced them I would take them back and leave her to shop till she was happy, she would then return.
It all worked out pretty well. What a day!
I had been wanting to visit since the last trip... but it was too short then to do so many things. And now we finally did it. It was an awesome daytrip (better than bringing mum to the casino in Macau!). But I know she wanted to do Macau too, perhaps next time. I would rather fly there than being seasick for an hour there and then back! :pEven though sis loves the Ocean Park's cable car more, I feel unjustified for Ngong Ping 360 because to me both are just as great. They show very different sides of Hong Kong and I've enjoyed each and every snapshot I have now in my head. My parents obviously love cable car rides, I can't remember if they were ever on the ones to Sentosa even... perhaps a long long time back. All the time, they were looking out for something... their eyes peered faraway. Undisturbed.
The view on Ocean Park's cable car was magnificent because we saw mountains, greens, islands and the theme park right below. But on Ngong Ping 360, we saw a lot of nature, mountains, the airport, the giant Buddha from afar... and people walking on the path below. Crazy to imagine how far it takes to walk there when it's 15-20mins on the cable car! We didn't opt for the crystal cabin with see-through ground, because sis would have freaked out! LOL.The Ngong Ping village is indeed very well done, pretty and well equipped. Food are available everywhere and that's a good thing! They aren't too overly pricey like most touristic places. There are some entertainment and attractions you can visit if you buy the package. The rest are just souvenir shops and tonnes of them - my parents, being religious, just had to get something!
I wandered off to see the Giant Buddha. I lost sis, as she was supposed to meet me somewhere. So I went up alone! Parents were resting somewhere slurping their noodles, while sis got lost somewhere and me up at the Giant Buddha and very thirsty. Later I realised sis didn't manage to go up because she thought we needed to buy a ticket! But it was actually FREE to walk right in, the tickets were for meal up in the Giant Buddha! I was up there for a while, the view wasn't as great as on the cable car but seeing the Giant Buddha right in your face after the 268 steps climb is something! :) It is also world’s largest outdoor bronze statue.
We hopped on the cable car soon after and spent the rest of the afternoon back at the Citygate outlets. The mall is filled with outlets of all kinds of brands from Burberry, Kate Spade, Timberland, Quicksilver to Nike. Funny enough, we didn't manage to find anything we like. I got a belt, that was it. Sis found nothing!
Time to leave Lantau and embark on another adventure. As we were leaving the next evening, I reckoned we should buy the infamous Wife Cakes or also known as 老婆饼 because I didn't want the last minute rush and panic the following day. I have already marked down the locations. So the idea was to get to Central, take a tram to Causeway Bay where we can get them at Sogo.
Excited and ready for the tram, we boarded but to our dismay I realised we were on the wrong one after I couldn't spot the street names on my map! We alighted, instead of being frustrated, we were quite pleased we finally got on the electric tram for once! We cabbed back to Causeway Bay which was a distance away, bummer! There was some tension that night as by then we were all pretty exhausted and sis was very annoyed with her fruitless shopping trip thus far. She wanted to shop but all dad wanted to do was to sit down and eat! Food was the only thing that kept him motivated. We were also carrying huge bags of wife cakes and it seemed stupid to walk with those. Sis didn't want them to go back on their own because she was being a big mummy again. So I convinced them I would take them back and leave her to shop till she was happy, she would then return.It all worked out pretty well. What a day!
香港续集 - La Familia Fun (III)
Saturday was supposed to be easy. Easy on everyone. Easy on daddy's legs - not wanting to break them. Easy after a late night out. Easy because we are not doing breakfast but brunch (breakfast + lunch).
It was Dim Sum we decided. We took the shuttle provided by the hotel (finally tried it) to Tsim Sha Tsui, where we conveniently located a few places to eat. After some consideration, we settled for Canton Deli which did great prawn dumplings (super yum, and we ordered another tray) and delicious congee. We had the fresh fish and scallop congee. We did a lot of shopping, I began to rekindle my love with bookstores. Dad got a book, both me and sis bought ourselves a Lomo camera each! YAY we love artistic stuff. I found myself a mustard colored stockings (one of the things I'll never get bored of).
There was also a sport bazaar going on. Dad replaced his pair of walking shoes, he seemed very pleased. I found a red Puma Madison which is ultra cool... I have been wanting a pair of shoes without laces for the longest time since my last baby Adidas died. Mum and sis didn't get anything, but not for long! We visited H&M, and got stuck there. Even mum loves the things, she got a perfect blouse. Poor dad had to wait for hours!
Saturday is really just all about shopping and showing the parents another area of Kowloon. Sis was crazy about the Esprit outlet, so we went. Before that we had an early dinner at "Sweet Dynasty" which is famous for desserts. My parents ordered a weird looking fried rice named "福建炒饭" and they seemed to like it. It looked like rice fried with baked beans and blah blah to me. Food was decent and affordable.
We got home after sis was done with Esprit shopping which I didn't seem to fancy. We had a rest before mum tagged along with us to the night ladies' market at Mongkok. It was much easier without bringing dad for shopping, because he would have been so bored. I guess watching TV back in the hotel suited him fine! The night was still early and energetic... we strolled along the stretch of the ladies' market. I love the ambience except for some very rude sellers whom would start yelling the last price they offered when you walked away.
I managed to get a pink bubble handbag at less than half the price she first offered. Lucky me. Sis wasn't so lucky, she only went back on the last day to get a similar bag but at a much higher price. But I guess if that makes her happy! We ate 臭豆腐, spicy fishballs and BBQ squid... The smelly tofu wasn't as bad as I had imagined really. It didn't smell bad when you bit into it, only when they were deep-frying them. I also ended up with a pair of gold studded heels at a real bargain HKD40! We got back past midnight with clumsy dad locking mum out!! Fortunately he wasn't sound asleep and we gave him a scolding for locking the door!
I ended up buying so much that I swore I never shopped this much on my past holidays! Call it a self-pampering trip or an advance birthday celebration?
It was Dim Sum we decided. We took the shuttle provided by the hotel (finally tried it) to Tsim Sha Tsui, where we conveniently located a few places to eat. After some consideration, we settled for Canton Deli which did great prawn dumplings (super yum, and we ordered another tray) and delicious congee. We had the fresh fish and scallop congee. We did a lot of shopping, I began to rekindle my love with bookstores. Dad got a book, both me and sis bought ourselves a Lomo camera each! YAY we love artistic stuff. I found myself a mustard colored stockings (one of the things I'll never get bored of).There was also a sport bazaar going on. Dad replaced his pair of walking shoes, he seemed very pleased. I found a red Puma Madison which is ultra cool... I have been wanting a pair of shoes without laces for the longest time since my last baby Adidas died. Mum and sis didn't get anything, but not for long! We visited H&M, and got stuck there. Even mum loves the things, she got a perfect blouse. Poor dad had to wait for hours!
Saturday is really just all about shopping and showing the parents another area of Kowloon. Sis was crazy about the Esprit outlet, so we went. Before that we had an early dinner at "Sweet Dynasty" which is famous for desserts. My parents ordered a weird looking fried rice named "福建炒饭" and they seemed to like it. It looked like rice fried with baked beans and blah blah to me. Food was decent and affordable.We got home after sis was done with Esprit shopping which I didn't seem to fancy. We had a rest before mum tagged along with us to the night ladies' market at Mongkok. It was much easier without bringing dad for shopping, because he would have been so bored. I guess watching TV back in the hotel suited him fine! The night was still early and energetic... we strolled along the stretch of the ladies' market. I love the ambience except for some very rude sellers whom would start yelling the last price they offered when you walked away.
I managed to get a pink bubble handbag at less than half the price she first offered. Lucky me. Sis wasn't so lucky, she only went back on the last day to get a similar bag but at a much higher price. But I guess if that makes her happy! We ate 臭豆腐, spicy fishballs and BBQ squid... The smelly tofu wasn't as bad as I had imagined really. It didn't smell bad when you bit into it, only when they were deep-frying them. I also ended up with a pair of gold studded heels at a real bargain HKD40! We got back past midnight with clumsy dad locking mum out!! Fortunately he wasn't sound asleep and we gave him a scolding for locking the door!
I ended up buying so much that I swore I never shopped this much on my past holidays! Call it a self-pampering trip or an advance birthday celebration?
香港续集 - La Familia Fun (II)
The second morning, I woke up with sinus which hasn't returned since my teenage years. The problem I have sleeping with air-conditioning. It takes a while for my body to adapt it.
It was Jordan for breakfast at a place named "Australian dairy Co.". I was there twice on the last trip and decided to bring them there. Unfortunately, they weren't impressed except for the yummy toasts. The service wasn't worth mentioning too, the guy who took our order was hostile and never followed up with our food. In the end, we seeked help from the other guy. I guess, that might be the end for it, I shall seek better quality places with more personal service.
After breakfast, we were off to Ocean Park. 1st October is China's National Day... and unsurprisingly, Ocean Park is extremely crowded. All the Chinese tourists must have taken the long weekend off! I had to queue for a long time before I could get the tickets and a stupid chinese woman behind tried to cut my queue. Everywhere was swarmed with people on a Friday, I couldn't imagine it during the weekend. I bought myself a "blue hat" to decorate myself in the pictures... "YEAY I am all ready for the rides!"
The Skyfair was our first. 22m in diameter, this big helium balloom brought us up to 100 metres above the ground to savour the breathtaking views of Ocean Park and the southern side of Hong Kong. Dad didn't want to go up so he was sitting there entertained by clowns and amazing acrobatic performances. The view was worth the over 1 hour of waiting... some things you just gotta try it once!
All rides are plagued with long queues, not to mention all the cafes and restaurants in the park! We decided to skip most rides, have a look around the park and take things easy. Sis and me went up to say hello to An An and Jia Jia, the two pandas up at HKJC Giant Panda Habitat. They were gifted to Hong Kong in 1997 to mark the return of Hong Kong to Chinese sovereignty. Huge, adorable and hungry, these pandas fascinate me.
We then headed to the summit by cable car where we tried to look for lunch. There were so much to see and so much to do, but we were limited by the crowd, long queues everywhere and very hot weather. I need to return another time during the off peak season!
The cable car took us from Lowland Gardens to Marine Land as the Ocean Park attractions are located on two different sides of the mountain. Exceptional views of the surrounding area, the sea, and the entire park - you should never ever miss this if you visit the Ocean Park! My parents loved it, while sis got cold feet from the height! I totally enjoyed it too and we decided to buy the family snapshot as a souvenir for over S$30. Fortunately we did, because we realised it was the only family picture we have from this Hong Kong trip! I just realised we didn't get a chance to take the second longest outdoor escalator in Ocean Park - such a shame!
We caught a glimpse of the California sea lions at Pacific Pier before sis and me braved ourselves for "The Dragon". The roller coaster ride with 3 full 360° rotations, only meant for the thrill seekers. I could only recall screaming so hard at each of the full 360° rotation, and then it was over too quick. When I stood up, I could still feel my hair standing, my heart trying hard to get the blood in my head down to my knees. I needed reloading of sugar. McDonalds.
I didn't feel like I needed another dizzy ride after "The Dragon" and to risk my McDonalds from being emptied from my happy stomach, we decided to head back down with the new Ocean Express. A quick, smooth and entertaining ride from the Summit back to Ocean Park's waterfront in just 3 mins, the train also carries a very funky and futuristic design. The train travels though a 1.3km tunnel, and at the same time offers this cool experience with music, video and changing lights that simulates a journey through the ocean's depths. Astonishing. So good that I don't mind having a few more of the 3 mins ride!
Bye bye Ocean Park! As we bade farewell to the park, we somehow also left our childhood behind.
After an adventurous bus ride (with the lack of taxis and availability of taxi bookings), we found ourselves enjoying nice sumptuous desserts at Honeymoon Dessert in IFC Mall. I was soaked in cold mango sago madness. Bliss.
We cabbed back. Sis and me then dressed up for Lan Kwai Fung where we were going to hit up with Syndy and John (my lovely friends). It was my first time there, boy was I excited! I even bought myself a pair of bunny ears to get the party started :) After hopping 3 bars, John retired from the night while the 3 mad women carried on partying! We eventually settled in Bar George with our new found friends, two crazy Japanese men. A local bunch joined us too. It was some mad dancing, drinking... The DJ, apparently, a friend of the Japanese boys, bought us shooters! I loved the drink, even though I had no idea what it was! LOL.
2am - time to go back and hit the sack. Another day tomorrow.
It was Jordan for breakfast at a place named "Australian dairy Co.". I was there twice on the last trip and decided to bring them there. Unfortunately, they weren't impressed except for the yummy toasts. The service wasn't worth mentioning too, the guy who took our order was hostile and never followed up with our food. In the end, we seeked help from the other guy. I guess, that might be the end for it, I shall seek better quality places with more personal service.
After breakfast, we were off to Ocean Park. 1st October is China's National Day... and unsurprisingly, Ocean Park is extremely crowded. All the Chinese tourists must have taken the long weekend off! I had to queue for a long time before I could get the tickets and a stupid chinese woman behind tried to cut my queue. Everywhere was swarmed with people on a Friday, I couldn't imagine it during the weekend. I bought myself a "blue hat" to decorate myself in the pictures... "YEAY I am all ready for the rides!"
The Skyfair was our first. 22m in diameter, this big helium balloom brought us up to 100 metres above the ground to savour the breathtaking views of Ocean Park and the southern side of Hong Kong. Dad didn't want to go up so he was sitting there entertained by clowns and amazing acrobatic performances. The view was worth the over 1 hour of waiting... some things you just gotta try it once!
All rides are plagued with long queues, not to mention all the cafes and restaurants in the park! We decided to skip most rides, have a look around the park and take things easy. Sis and me went up to say hello to An An and Jia Jia, the two pandas up at HKJC Giant Panda Habitat. They were gifted to Hong Kong in 1997 to mark the return of Hong Kong to Chinese sovereignty. Huge, adorable and hungry, these pandas fascinate me.We then headed to the summit by cable car where we tried to look for lunch. There were so much to see and so much to do, but we were limited by the crowd, long queues everywhere and very hot weather. I need to return another time during the off peak season!
The cable car took us from Lowland Gardens to Marine Land as the Ocean Park attractions are located on two different sides of the mountain. Exceptional views of the surrounding area, the sea, and the entire park - you should never ever miss this if you visit the Ocean Park! My parents loved it, while sis got cold feet from the height! I totally enjoyed it too and we decided to buy the family snapshot as a souvenir for over S$30. Fortunately we did, because we realised it was the only family picture we have from this Hong Kong trip! I just realised we didn't get a chance to take the second longest outdoor escalator in Ocean Park - such a shame!
We caught a glimpse of the California sea lions at Pacific Pier before sis and me braved ourselves for "The Dragon". The roller coaster ride with 3 full 360° rotations, only meant for the thrill seekers. I could only recall screaming so hard at each of the full 360° rotation, and then it was over too quick. When I stood up, I could still feel my hair standing, my heart trying hard to get the blood in my head down to my knees. I needed reloading of sugar. McDonalds.I didn't feel like I needed another dizzy ride after "The Dragon" and to risk my McDonalds from being emptied from my happy stomach, we decided to head back down with the new Ocean Express. A quick, smooth and entertaining ride from the Summit back to Ocean Park's waterfront in just 3 mins, the train also carries a very funky and futuristic design. The train travels though a 1.3km tunnel, and at the same time offers this cool experience with music, video and changing lights that simulates a journey through the ocean's depths. Astonishing. So good that I don't mind having a few more of the 3 mins ride!
Bye bye Ocean Park! As we bade farewell to the park, we somehow also left our childhood behind.
After an adventurous bus ride (with the lack of taxis and availability of taxi bookings), we found ourselves enjoying nice sumptuous desserts at Honeymoon Dessert in IFC Mall. I was soaked in cold mango sago madness. Bliss.
We cabbed back. Sis and me then dressed up for Lan Kwai Fung where we were going to hit up with Syndy and John (my lovely friends). It was my first time there, boy was I excited! I even bought myself a pair of bunny ears to get the party started :) After hopping 3 bars, John retired from the night while the 3 mad women carried on partying! We eventually settled in Bar George with our new found friends, two crazy Japanese men. A local bunch joined us too. It was some mad dancing, drinking... The DJ, apparently, a friend of the Japanese boys, bought us shooters! I loved the drink, even though I had no idea what it was! LOL.
2am - time to go back and hit the sack. Another day tomorrow.
香港续集 - La Familia Fun (I)
2 medium luggages & a small one.
We managed to fit into a cab (what a relief). It was barely 7am when we arrived at Changi Airport T1. Finally flying Cathay again, my first flight on it was to London 6 years back. But it isn't as good as it was anymore - sadly.
At the boarding gate, a woman with skinny limbs and no make-up sprung out of nowhere and called my name! It was Syndy, this liar!! She had lied to me that the flight was full and she couldn't get on it. But It was a nice surprise and we sat together since it wasn't full. Syndy was dozing off all the time, while I laughed myself off watching "Hangover". Hilarious. I loved how the story unfolded itself.
It was past 2 when we got to the hotel. The airport transfer took a long while after dropping various people at numerous stops. We'd have gotten there if we took the Airport Express train! We stayed at Royal Plaza (4*) at Mongkok East. It looks grand, at the same time charming and a little old but the rooms are spacious!
Settling in, we then grabbed a quick meal at Grand Century Place, the mall right next to our hotel. Decided to venture into Mongkok, we ended up lost on Fan Yuen street with cute furry bunnies and packs of colorful fishes. After some helpful guidance, we found Langham Palace. By then, we could see Dad's leg was already "screaming" for help. We found them seats in McDonalds while we wandered around. After a little shopping, we decided to cab back and end the long day.
It was 30mins to 8pm when we got back, I wanted to go to the pool and jacuzzi which would close by 9pm. It was empty when we arrived. The guy at the fitness center kindly introduced us to the jacuzzi and set it up and running for us. Unfortunately I was in my retreating mood, and wasn't too sociable to make small talk with him. Sad to say, I didn't manage to find time to go back to the pool again :( Oh well!
We managed to fit into a cab (what a relief). It was barely 7am when we arrived at Changi Airport T1. Finally flying Cathay again, my first flight on it was to London 6 years back. But it isn't as good as it was anymore - sadly.
At the boarding gate, a woman with skinny limbs and no make-up sprung out of nowhere and called my name! It was Syndy, this liar!! She had lied to me that the flight was full and she couldn't get on it. But It was a nice surprise and we sat together since it wasn't full. Syndy was dozing off all the time, while I laughed myself off watching "Hangover". Hilarious. I loved how the story unfolded itself.
It was past 2 when we got to the hotel. The airport transfer took a long while after dropping various people at numerous stops. We'd have gotten there if we took the Airport Express train! We stayed at Royal Plaza (4*) at Mongkok East. It looks grand, at the same time charming and a little old but the rooms are spacious!
Settling in, we then grabbed a quick meal at Grand Century Place, the mall right next to our hotel. Decided to venture into Mongkok, we ended up lost on Fan Yuen street with cute furry bunnies and packs of colorful fishes. After some helpful guidance, we found Langham Palace. By then, we could see Dad's leg was already "screaming" for help. We found them seats in McDonalds while we wandered around. After a little shopping, we decided to cab back and end the long day.It was 30mins to 8pm when we got back, I wanted to go to the pool and jacuzzi which would close by 9pm. It was empty when we arrived. The guy at the fitness center kindly introduced us to the jacuzzi and set it up and running for us. Unfortunately I was in my retreating mood, and wasn't too sociable to make small talk with him. Sad to say, I didn't manage to find time to go back to the pool again :( Oh well!
9.10.09
家，我们回来了。
Home finally. With plenty of laundry to do, unpacking to be done, new additions to the wardrobe and freed from the agony and pain - which I'll elaborate more later.
To be honest, it isn't that bad. I thoroughly enjoyed myself, done the things I didn't manage to the last time round. For mum & dad, I think they had welcomed the new experience. Afterall, it's dad's first flight and our first family holiday abroad. Dad has traveled to Malaysia umpteen times on coach but Malaysia is definitely a far cry from cosmopolitan Hong Kong. For sis, I reckon she hasn't shopped to her satisfaction; a shopaholic with parents tagged along on a holiday doesn't sound like the best idea.
Sis is like a big mummy, protective and overly responsible. I think she's worse than mum. Mummy dearest got all anxious when sis wandered off alone too. I begin to see similarities - worrying parents. Maybe I will one day?? But not at this moment. I feel everyone needs to have some personal space and learn to be independent. "Mum, I'm not 12 anymore."
I am open to the idea that my parents could take a cab back to the hotel when they wanted to but sis was against it. I didn't like the fact that she was overdoing things. She can't be the big mummy all the time, and she doesn't have all the time to do her shopping. I wasn't surprised when she finally lost her cool because she was just trying too much.
Dad has this joint problem and walking too much annoys him. He was a pain in the ass, sorry dad, but you were horrible at some points. He would sulk and he wouldn't even say when he was starving. God, we felt like we were bringing a big baby around. He made 3 women very unhappy and frustrated! Poor dad or poor us? He finally seemed more chirpy on the last day and was fiddling with the remote on the flight back. I ordered him a wine to keep his spirits high. LOL.
I'll be writing more on the things done on the trip in the next entries - coming soon.
To be honest, it isn't that bad. I thoroughly enjoyed myself, done the things I didn't manage to the last time round. For mum & dad, I think they had welcomed the new experience. Afterall, it's dad's first flight and our first family holiday abroad. Dad has traveled to Malaysia umpteen times on coach but Malaysia is definitely a far cry from cosmopolitan Hong Kong. For sis, I reckon she hasn't shopped to her satisfaction; a shopaholic with parents tagged along on a holiday doesn't sound like the best idea.
Sis is like a big mummy, protective and overly responsible. I think she's worse than mum. Mummy dearest got all anxious when sis wandered off alone too. I begin to see similarities - worrying parents. Maybe I will one day?? But not at this moment. I feel everyone needs to have some personal space and learn to be independent. "Mum, I'm not 12 anymore."
I am open to the idea that my parents could take a cab back to the hotel when they wanted to but sis was against it. I didn't like the fact that she was overdoing things. She can't be the big mummy all the time, and she doesn't have all the time to do her shopping. I wasn't surprised when she finally lost her cool because she was just trying too much.
Dad has this joint problem and walking too much annoys him. He was a pain in the ass, sorry dad, but you were horrible at some points. He would sulk and he wouldn't even say when he was starving. God, we felt like we were bringing a big baby around. He made 3 women very unhappy and frustrated! Poor dad or poor us? He finally seemed more chirpy on the last day and was fiddling with the remote on the flight back. I ordered him a wine to keep his spirits high. LOL.
I'll be writing more on the things done on the trip in the next entries - coming soon.
29.9.09
Monday without blues
Maybe with a tint of yellow...
Today is a good day, and Mondays are seldom good. But it happens today, just as I've planned it nicely, today is officially my last day of my 7months contract. Delightful isn't the only word to describe the feeling... It's GODDAMNAWESOME.
I can finally wave goodbye to this very messed up place, which not only appears unsightly and disorganized but the people are as well. It makes it very unbearable, not to mention 4 people left this month, with me as the 4th and the only one who didn't resign. I finished my contract and am so glad I kept my words to finish this off instead of throwing the paper which I almost did at one point. Patience, tolerance and happy pills - you would need them if you were me.
Good and bad things happened today. One of my best friends wanted to meet me up, but it being my last day at work, I was held up sorting out the final bits. I hope she wasn't mad at me, but she informed me the very last minute too. Good thing is I went to get a little more $ for HK, because I really haven't had a self-pampering holiday for a while and didn't want to save and scrimp on this one.
I was also chatting to a few close friends today, in fact, I think with all of them! No wonder I feel exceptionally gleeful too. I told them about things I haven't been telling anyone, feelings which I have only been keeping to myself because they are so silly... and when you hear it from your best friends, it just makes you feel so much better! I miss them so much!
Today is a good day, and Mondays are seldom good. But it happens today, just as I've planned it nicely, today is officially my last day of my 7months contract. Delightful isn't the only word to describe the feeling... It's GODDAMNAWESOME.
I can finally wave goodbye to this very messed up place, which not only appears unsightly and disorganized but the people are as well. It makes it very unbearable, not to mention 4 people left this month, with me as the 4th and the only one who didn't resign. I finished my contract and am so glad I kept my words to finish this off instead of throwing the paper which I almost did at one point. Patience, tolerance and happy pills - you would need them if you were me.
Good and bad things happened today. One of my best friends wanted to meet me up, but it being my last day at work, I was held up sorting out the final bits. I hope she wasn't mad at me, but she informed me the very last minute too. Good thing is I went to get a little more $ for HK, because I really haven't had a self-pampering holiday for a while and didn't want to save and scrimp on this one.
I was also chatting to a few close friends today, in fact, I think with all of them! No wonder I feel exceptionally gleeful too. I told them about things I haven't been telling anyone, feelings which I have only been keeping to myself because they are so silly... and when you hear it from your best friends, it just makes you feel so much better! I miss them so much!
23.9.09
Naked man travels time
I watched The Time Traveler's Wife.
Recently, there has been quite a few good films going on at the same time... but I have only one head and my brain needs rest. Missed out quite a few good ones, e.g. 9, Orphan, etc. Hope I'll get a chance to see those on DVDs.
Adeline found the movie slow. I have no comment, the pace suits me fine... perhaps after a busy afternoon filing, I have nothing to complain about relaxing in the cinema. I have never read the book, though I heard so much about it. I came to watch it without reading the synopsis or anything... because I wanted to see where it'd bring or take me to.
Like a lot of tragic romance movies, I found the plot a little similar - perhaps from a mixture of other films. Yet so compelling. I saw him came and left... appeared and disappeared. That kind of genetic disorder which is quite impossible to imagine in reality, what if, I asked myself what if it does happen? Someone who is able to travel between time, isn't that like immortality?? He in his past can travel to the future, and he can go back to the past. After he's dead, his past is still alive?
And the wife, a woman who can love a man who can't promise to be by her side all the time wholeheartedly. To have loved and lost, and to cherish the time being together than not having it at all... My "hopelessly romantic" ideal tells me I'd rather be like her. Isn't that way better than falling in love with ten wrong men? Somehow I do like the part that their daughter time travels too, and the scene where she meets her "deceased" dad who has traveled from the past. I don't understand too why he has to be naked when he travels...! Though that convincingly makes others believe that he has magically vanished leaving behind a pile of clothes.
I wish the movie could be longer... I wish they would have something out of the blue that would have surprised me. I like the show... but somehow, it isn't exceptional. It's time to read the book!
Verdict: 3.5/5
Recently, there has been quite a few good films going on at the same time... but I have only one head and my brain needs rest. Missed out quite a few good ones, e.g. 9, Orphan, etc. Hope I'll get a chance to see those on DVDs.
Adeline found the movie slow. I have no comment, the pace suits me fine... perhaps after a busy afternoon filing, I have nothing to complain about relaxing in the cinema. I have never read the book, though I heard so much about it. I came to watch it without reading the synopsis or anything... because I wanted to see where it'd bring or take me to.
Like a lot of tragic romance movies, I found the plot a little similar - perhaps from a mixture of other films. Yet so compelling. I saw him came and left... appeared and disappeared. That kind of genetic disorder which is quite impossible to imagine in reality, what if, I asked myself what if it does happen? Someone who is able to travel between time, isn't that like immortality?? He in his past can travel to the future, and he can go back to the past. After he's dead, his past is still alive?
And the wife, a woman who can love a man who can't promise to be by her side all the time wholeheartedly. To have loved and lost, and to cherish the time being together than not having it at all... My "hopelessly romantic" ideal tells me I'd rather be like her. Isn't that way better than falling in love with ten wrong men? Somehow I do like the part that their daughter time travels too, and the scene where she meets her "deceased" dad who has traveled from the past. I don't understand too why he has to be naked when he travels...! Though that convincingly makes others believe that he has magically vanished leaving behind a pile of clothes.
I wish the movie could be longer... I wish they would have something out of the blue that would have surprised me. I like the show... but somehow, it isn't exceptional. It's time to read the book!
Verdict: 3.5/5
21.9.09
Big hole in my pocket
When my fortune was told, I didn't believe it... I was told I'd have a hole burnt in my pocket and inevitably it has to happen. Now I see it coming true.
Just as everything is going on at this time... A holiday with my parents (where I have to fork out hotel accomodation & tickets), lost my mobile and haven't gotten a new one, finishing up my contract and have nothing planned thereafter... My wardrobe broke. Right. Excellent timing - Thanks!
It isn't that bad, but one of the drawers broke. I have to change the whole damned thing. It's second-hand anyway, and I figure perhaps it's time to get a new replacement. So I made a 2nd run to Ikea two days in the row, the first being a support of their Ikea Friends' event - Billy Book Exchange. I brought 13 books and dropped it off, and I could take 5 from the accumulated pile at the event they're having next weekend onwards.
After a long examining journey around the bedroom section, I decided against getting from Ikea. I hate to say that I would love to buy from them but it's too much of a hassle. I have to install everything by myself, the cupboard would cost at least $300 after adding in doors, handles/knobs, hinges to the frame, and then pay additional $50-55 dollars for delivery when cab is only $10 but I simply can't carry the damned thing. I tried even lifting a box containing "a small bedside cabinet" and I swear it feels like 25kg. I don't think I could even pull that out of the cab. I saw a very nice one at Courts but will cost me $400 (excluding delivery), at least I do not have to screw the whole damned cupboard myself. Just as I went around hunting, I found myself a nice thick mattress which I might consider buying... hahaha. To even think that I might consider adding that on, madness, but maybe I'm mad.
On the way out of Ikea, I bumped into someone I knew (Oh well, we don't talk now). As I was on the escalator down, I saw his side view but I was very sure. No mistake. We were almost passing by each other as our escalators were going in the opposite direction. I saw a "what seemed like filipino" woman and kid behind him, and I was almost certain they are a family. I didn't think he saw me, even so, he wouldn't recognise me after almost 6 years.
Ikea was packed with people today, unlike yesterday. I suppose Sunday is some kind of a family day in Singapore! I wonder why. I'm restless. I think I need to go around window shop for my wardrobe again. Wish me luck!
Just as everything is going on at this time... A holiday with my parents (where I have to fork out hotel accomodation & tickets), lost my mobile and haven't gotten a new one, finishing up my contract and have nothing planned thereafter... My wardrobe broke. Right. Excellent timing - Thanks!
It isn't that bad, but one of the drawers broke. I have to change the whole damned thing. It's second-hand anyway, and I figure perhaps it's time to get a new replacement. So I made a 2nd run to Ikea two days in the row, the first being a support of their Ikea Friends' event - Billy Book Exchange. I brought 13 books and dropped it off, and I could take 5 from the accumulated pile at the event they're having next weekend onwards.
After a long examining journey around the bedroom section, I decided against getting from Ikea. I hate to say that I would love to buy from them but it's too much of a hassle. I have to install everything by myself, the cupboard would cost at least $300 after adding in doors, handles/knobs, hinges to the frame, and then pay additional $50-55 dollars for delivery when cab is only $10 but I simply can't carry the damned thing. I tried even lifting a box containing "a small bedside cabinet" and I swear it feels like 25kg. I don't think I could even pull that out of the cab. I saw a very nice one at Courts but will cost me $400 (excluding delivery), at least I do not have to screw the whole damned cupboard myself. Just as I went around hunting, I found myself a nice thick mattress which I might consider buying... hahaha. To even think that I might consider adding that on, madness, but maybe I'm mad.
On the way out of Ikea, I bumped into someone I knew (Oh well, we don't talk now). As I was on the escalator down, I saw his side view but I was very sure. No mistake. We were almost passing by each other as our escalators were going in the opposite direction. I saw a "what seemed like filipino" woman and kid behind him, and I was almost certain they are a family. I didn't think he saw me, even so, he wouldn't recognise me after almost 6 years.
Ikea was packed with people today, unlike yesterday. I suppose Sunday is some kind of a family day in Singapore! I wonder why. I'm restless. I think I need to go around window shop for my wardrobe again. Wish me luck!
7.9.09
M&M's ♥
My life is a tub of M&M's ♥♥♥.
Family pack.
Original Chocolate Candies.
Milk chocolate.
15% fat (no trans fats).
Eat at your own risk.
Made with real chocolate.
6 different colors in the pack.
Tiny but colorful.
Fill up a jar nicely.
Make great recipes.
Pop one into your mouth anytime.
Great bite-size snack for sinful days.
Family pack.
Original Chocolate Candies.
Milk chocolate.
15% fat (no trans fats).
Eat at your own risk.
Made with real chocolate.
6 different colors in the pack.
Tiny but colorful.
Fill up a jar nicely.
Make great recipes.
Pop one into your mouth anytime.
Great bite-size snack for sinful days.
死亡
Death is a very strange thing... don't you think?
It's like a random stranger. You fear because because you don't know him. It's like a convincing salesman. You can't say "no" when it comes knocking on your door. It's like the food you hate most. One day, you ate it accidentally but you survived. The other times you might not be that lucky, you might choke on it. It's like a movie trailer. You know the show is coming. (My very random thoughts)
I attended the wake of our long-time neighbour, heard the stories the deceased's wife was telling my parents. He knew it was coming, he even told them what he wanted to be dressed in when he's gone.
Death is a part of life, and sometimes it comes with warning, and at times without. I don't know which is better? When you know it's coming, are you scared? Ready to accept? But when you don't, you don't have a choice to choose.
It's like a random stranger. You fear because because you don't know him. It's like a convincing salesman. You can't say "no" when it comes knocking on your door. It's like the food you hate most. One day, you ate it accidentally but you survived. The other times you might not be that lucky, you might choke on it. It's like a movie trailer. You know the show is coming. (My very random thoughts)
I attended the wake of our long-time neighbour, heard the stories the deceased's wife was telling my parents. He knew it was coming, he even told them what he wanted to be dressed in when he's gone.
Death is a part of life, and sometimes it comes with warning, and at times without. I don't know which is better? When you know it's coming, are you scared? Ready to accept? But when you don't, you don't have a choice to choose.
3.9.09
New man?
Thank you NTUC Income for the compensation of my lost phone! It's a percentage of the price I paid for 2 years back, but hey, it's better than nothing! Even trading it in now won't get much value. At least, now I have a "Buy a new phone" fund.
I haven't had my eye on any phone yet... pretty sad! I do see something I like but not the kind that I'm dying to have it. I'm using my "ancient" but favourite phone (a black SGH-A400 Egèo) I got almost 7-8 years back. No colors. Pixels. Melody ring tones. But yes I still love it despite it being a little physically handicapped.
I haven't had my eye on any phone yet... pretty sad! I do see something I like but not the kind that I'm dying to have it. I'm using my "ancient" but favourite phone (a black SGH-A400 Egèo) I got almost 7-8 years back. No colors. Pixels. Melody ring tones. But yes I still love it despite it being a little physically handicapped.
2.9.09
He left...
Not my phone, a real human.
Those painful coughing. No more. That familiar voice. Gone. Forever.
After an evening of commotion outside the flat, we received the news that he has paased on. My neighbour, our long-time neighbour, we have been living next to each other since the day we moved here 20+ years ago. Somehow it seems unreal. Few days back, I still bumped into uncle while I was leaving the flat or maybe coming back home. He had been unwell for quite some time, and no one has expected today to be the day. Mum said he's already in his 70s, a doting and stern grandfather, we often heard and seen him teaching the kids a few lessons.
I remember growing up, playing with the big sisters and brothers next door. Today they are all happily married, I still could recall myself having a big crush on the big brother I always looked upon. So amusing to think of such things now.
That ambulance has left. Without him. He never made it to the stretcher. My sister heard the crying. We did not go over to witness the commotion next door, but quietly and anxiously we waited for news. It came and unfortunately not the good one we wanted to hear.
I hope he is in a better place now. God bless!
I am buying my parents a trip to Hong Kong... and suddenly I felt this is much needed. I finally could do this and this is one of my wishes this year. I am fulfilling it before it is too late. We never had a family holiday out of Singapore, and during my childhood my dad could only afford Kusu island or Sentosa as our regular outings. Till when I was 21, with the help of my colleagues, I began my adventure - to see the world. And I wished my parents could see what I saw... and now I want them to do so. My dad will have his first flight on Cathay and my mum, her second! (The fortunate thing is my sister is coming along to help me split the costs! PHEW.)
Those painful coughing. No more. That familiar voice. Gone. Forever.
After an evening of commotion outside the flat, we received the news that he has paased on. My neighbour, our long-time neighbour, we have been living next to each other since the day we moved here 20+ years ago. Somehow it seems unreal. Few days back, I still bumped into uncle while I was leaving the flat or maybe coming back home. He had been unwell for quite some time, and no one has expected today to be the day. Mum said he's already in his 70s, a doting and stern grandfather, we often heard and seen him teaching the kids a few lessons.
I remember growing up, playing with the big sisters and brothers next door. Today they are all happily married, I still could recall myself having a big crush on the big brother I always looked upon. So amusing to think of such things now.
That ambulance has left. Without him. He never made it to the stretcher. My sister heard the crying. We did not go over to witness the commotion next door, but quietly and anxiously we waited for news. It came and unfortunately not the good one we wanted to hear.
I hope he is in a better place now. God bless!
I am buying my parents a trip to Hong Kong... and suddenly I felt this is much needed. I finally could do this and this is one of my wishes this year. I am fulfilling it before it is too late. We never had a family holiday out of Singapore, and during my childhood my dad could only afford Kusu island or Sentosa as our regular outings. Till when I was 21, with the help of my colleagues, I began my adventure - to see the world. And I wished my parents could see what I saw... and now I want them to do so. My dad will have his first flight on Cathay and my mum, her second! (The fortunate thing is my sister is coming along to help me split the costs! PHEW.)
25.8.09
Love it, Bob!
Currently infatuated with one song that I can play it over and over and over again...
As much as I like Jason Mraz's "I'm yours", I seem to be more attracted to this other song in his album. I am going to share with you the lyrics... I googled and I realised Bob Dylan wrote and sang this original song (1981 -- same age as me!!). So yesteryear!!!
It is adorable. Realised how they came up with the names, and how it perfectly rhymes... Brilliant creation. Love it, Bob!
As much as I like Jason Mraz's "I'm yours", I seem to be more attracted to this other song in his album. I am going to share with you the lyrics... I googled and I realised Bob Dylan wrote and sang this original song (1981 -- same age as me!!). So yesteryear!!!
It is adorable. Realised how they came up with the names, and how it perfectly rhymes... Brilliant creation. Love it, Bob!
Man Gave Names To All The Animals Lyrics
By: Bob Dylan
Man gave names to all the animals
In the beginning, in the beginning.
Man gave names to all the animals
In the beginning, long time ago.
He saw an animal that liked to growl,
Big furry paws and he liked to howl,
Great big furry back and furry hair.
"Ah, think I'll call it a bear."
Man gave names to all the animals
In the beginning, in the beginning.
Man gave names to all the animals
In the beginning, long time ago.
He saw an animal up on a hill
Chewing up so much grass until she was filled.
He saw milk comin' out but he didn't know how.
"Ah, think I'll call it a cow."
Man gave names to all the animals
In the beginning, in the beginning.
Man gave names to all the animals
In the beginning, long time ago.
He saw an animal that liked to snort,
Horns on his head and they weren't too short.
It looked like there wasn't nothin' that he couldn't pull.
"Ah, think I'll call it a bull."
Man gave names to all the animals
In the beginning, in the beginning.
Man gave names to all the animals
In the beginning, long time ago.
He saw an animal leavin' a muddy trail,
Real dirty face and a curly tail.
He wasn't too small and he wasn't too big.
"Ah, think I'll call it a pig."
Man gave names to all the animals
In the beginning, in the beginning.
Man gave names to all the animals
In the beginning, long time ago.
Next animal that he did meet
Had wool on his back and hooves on his feet,
Eating grass on a mountainside so steep.
"Ah, think I'll call it a sheep."
Man gave names to all the animals
In the beginning, in the beginning.
Man gave names to all the animals
In the beginning, long time ago.
He saw an animal as smooth as glass
Slithering his way through the grass.
Saw him disappear by a tree near a lake . . .
By: Bob Dylan
Man gave names to all the animals
In the beginning, in the beginning.
Man gave names to all the animals
In the beginning, long time ago.
He saw an animal that liked to growl,
Big furry paws and he liked to howl,
Great big furry back and furry hair.
"Ah, think I'll call it a bear."
Man gave names to all the animals
In the beginning, in the beginning.
Man gave names to all the animals
In the beginning, long time ago.
He saw an animal up on a hill
Chewing up so much grass until she was filled.
He saw milk comin' out but he didn't know how.
"Ah, think I'll call it a cow."
Man gave names to all the animals
In the beginning, in the beginning.
Man gave names to all the animals
In the beginning, long time ago.
He saw an animal that liked to snort,
Horns on his head and they weren't too short.
It looked like there wasn't nothin' that he couldn't pull.
"Ah, think I'll call it a bull."
Man gave names to all the animals
In the beginning, in the beginning.
Man gave names to all the animals
In the beginning, long time ago.
He saw an animal leavin' a muddy trail,
Real dirty face and a curly tail.
He wasn't too small and he wasn't too big.
"Ah, think I'll call it a pig."
Man gave names to all the animals
In the beginning, in the beginning.
Man gave names to all the animals
In the beginning, long time ago.
Next animal that he did meet
Had wool on his back and hooves on his feet,
Eating grass on a mountainside so steep.
"Ah, think I'll call it a sheep."
Man gave names to all the animals
In the beginning, in the beginning.
Man gave names to all the animals
In the beginning, long time ago.
He saw an animal as smooth as glass
Slithering his way through the grass.
Saw him disappear by a tree near a lake . . .
23.8.09
Superbanana pie
That's the word I use for it - Superb. And thus the name Superbanana pie.
I caught a glimpse of the recommendation on TV a few weeks back. Being a fanatic of food with banana (just likewise with chocolate and rum balls), I decided to hunt the place down. I googled and coincidentally found the place they were talking about. One week later, I went down to Katong just to hunt for this specialty - banana pie.
I happened to also read someone's blog entry that they do sell rum balls too. It could be my lucky day! I met another dessert-crazed human being like me, and off we went. From the hawker centre for chicken macaroni, to french marshmallows (guimauve) and then banana pie and rum ball. Though I do love desserts, I am not borned with a sweeth tooth. Guimauves are a nice try but definitely I won't go gaga over it, because they are too sweet for me!
When I first bit into the banana pie, it nearly took my breath away! Not too sweet, filled with generous portion of banana chunks, and being freshly served out of the oven does help! It was warm and crispy, crust very nicely done... How wonderful if I could have a scoop of ice-cream on top of it - that'd be heavenly. I could taste the grated coconut they used in it too, unlike other pie that filled it up with cream or flour, this definitely sound like a healthier option. What more is it tastes exceptionally good! So be being banana pie crazed, I bought 2 more for takeaway, it costs S$2 for a piece or S$20 for the whole pie!
Oh did I not mention their lovely rum balls too? Slightly a little bigger than size of a marble, it looks too teeny for the price of S$1. I almost thought they must have missed out "3 for.." in their tag. After putting the whole marble-sized rum ball into my mouth, I finally understood the reason for the price. I could get drunk with 10 shots of rum balls - honestly. And one of the best rum balls I have tried in Singapore - swear to that!
Dona Manis, I'm certainly coming back for more!
p.s: Pic is finally up, wonder why blogger is screwed up on firefox.
I caught a glimpse of the recommendation on TV a few weeks back. Being a fanatic of food with banana (just likewise with chocolate and rum balls), I decided to hunt the place down. I googled and coincidentally found the place they were talking about. One week later, I went down to Katong just to hunt for this specialty - banana pie.
I happened to also read someone's blog entry that they do sell rum balls too. It could be my lucky day! I met another dessert-crazed human being like me, and off we went. From the hawker centre for chicken macaroni, to french marshmallows (guimauve) and then banana pie and rum ball. Though I do love desserts, I am not borned with a sweeth tooth. Guimauves are a nice try but definitely I won't go gaga over it, because they are too sweet for me!
When I first bit into the banana pie, it nearly took my breath away! Not too sweet, filled with generous portion of banana chunks, and being freshly served out of the oven does help! It was warm and crispy, crust very nicely done... How wonderful if I could have a scoop of ice-cream on top of it - that'd be heavenly. I could taste the grated coconut they used in it too, unlike other pie that filled it up with cream or flour, this definitely sound like a healthier option. What more is it tastes exceptionally good! So be being banana pie crazed, I bought 2 more for takeaway, it costs S$2 for a piece or S$20 for the whole pie!
Oh did I not mention their lovely rum balls too? Slightly a little bigger than size of a marble, it looks too teeny for the price of S$1. I almost thought they must have missed out "3 for.." in their tag. After putting the whole marble-sized rum ball into my mouth, I finally understood the reason for the price. I could get drunk with 10 shots of rum balls - honestly. And one of the best rum balls I have tried in Singapore - swear to that!
Dona Manis, I'm certainly coming back for more!
p.s: Pic is finally up, wonder why blogger is screwed up on firefox.
10.8.09
Kota Kinabalu (iv) - Spooked
On Monday night, it was the second night I slept ALONE in the 12 beds dormitory in Hamin Lodge. It was eerily quiet and I was not used to it. The first two nights I had a filipino auntie on the opposite bed who spoke to me in heavily accented English. After she left, it was clear that no one else stepped into this room except me as they never cleaned my room. I was disgusted but it was just one more night left so I decided to bear with it. They didn't have any other dormitory with other people and so I couldn't move to another room, I was stuck basically. Sometimes I wondered if I was really alone... a few times, the bamboo door of the cabinet would suddenly swing open, but I just took it that it might be a bit loose. I was brave but when I was there alone I actually felt timid. It was this kind of spooky.
I actually felt great to wake up in the morning and get out because I didn't want to spend too much quiet time in the room itself!
Woke up at 5.30am, it was the day to head out to Kinabalu Park. We have gotten a car rental, all ready to drive up the mountain! Poor B had to drive 2 hours there, and poor me had to navigate with a clear mind at 6am. The map was lousy and the signage in Sabah was very poorly done... but we managed to get by with a bit of luck. We didn't lose our way, got to the park and realised the weather was a bit too cool for our dressing! LOL. It didn't matter much since we would be trekking and then we would be heated up pretty fast. We did 2 connecting trails. Afterwhich I decided no more, they went ahead for another while I found a convenience shop and bought myself a Berry Twist ice cream. How cooling! An ice cream up the cooling mountain, that would wake me up!
In Sabah, after the admission fee to an attraction, you had to still pay for more admission within the place. It's ridiculous! Why don't they charge an one-off fee! They made us want to skip so many things just because they wanted to make the tourists pay for every single thing. We skipped the Botanic Garden (Mountain Garden) because we wanted to head to Poring Hot Springs which was 45 mins away. So we left...
At Poring Hot Springs, we were really starving so we had to lunch at the only restaurant in this place. It was a buffet, we didn't have any other choice but 35RM for a wide range of selection sounded reasonable. I particularly like the wings and mini burgers. Then we did the Canopy Walk which is pretty challenging, it's so high up and you are practically walking on a plank held on by strong ropes! We didn't take any pictures because they would charge each of our camera a fee! But I was glad we didn't want to take the cameras because we would be too damned nervous to take it out during the walk anyway! We went around to see the hot spring area and missed the butterfly park because we wanted to visit the tea planation. But sadly we didn't have enough time as we needed to get back before 6pm. It was already 2pm and tea planatation was probably another 45mins away.
So we headed back. Both the girls dozed off when B was driving, poor him! He got lost and had to wake me up eventually. The map reader. So there I was, and we managed to get back into the city just in time for a nice hot shower before returning the car. The car got into a little accident (scratch) earlier during parking but all is covered, so everything was fine! Phew!
A last dinner by the coast, followed by a Green Tea donut... mmm, it didn't make my stomach feel better! LOL. I also made a trip down to the bakery to buy home a few of the chocolate balls! After some last minute souvenir shopping and an hour of card games, we knocked out. No more spooky night finally... I woke up earlier the next morning to pack, had my breakfast before we cabbed to the airport where we bought ourselves a last sinful meal in Kota Kinabalu - KFC!
Back home to Singapore on Tigers. All in all, a nice relaxing but muscle aching trip! I'm happy I get some sun, have a bit of a tan now!
I actually felt great to wake up in the morning and get out because I didn't want to spend too much quiet time in the room itself!
Woke up at 5.30am, it was the day to head out to Kinabalu Park. We have gotten a car rental, all ready to drive up the mountain! Poor B had to drive 2 hours there, and poor me had to navigate with a clear mind at 6am. The map was lousy and the signage in Sabah was very poorly done... but we managed to get by with a bit of luck. We didn't lose our way, got to the park and realised the weather was a bit too cool for our dressing! LOL. It didn't matter much since we would be trekking and then we would be heated up pretty fast. We did 2 connecting trails. Afterwhich I decided no more, they went ahead for another while I found a convenience shop and bought myself a Berry Twist ice cream. How cooling! An ice cream up the cooling mountain, that would wake me up!
In Sabah, after the admission fee to an attraction, you had to still pay for more admission within the place. It's ridiculous! Why don't they charge an one-off fee! They made us want to skip so many things just because they wanted to make the tourists pay for every single thing. We skipped the Botanic Garden (Mountain Garden) because we wanted to head to Poring Hot Springs which was 45 mins away. So we left...
At Poring Hot Springs, we were really starving so we had to lunch at the only restaurant in this place. It was a buffet, we didn't have any other choice but 35RM for a wide range of selection sounded reasonable. I particularly like the wings and mini burgers. Then we did the Canopy Walk which is pretty challenging, it's so high up and you are practically walking on a plank held on by strong ropes! We didn't take any pictures because they would charge each of our camera a fee! But I was glad we didn't want to take the cameras because we would be too damned nervous to take it out during the walk anyway! We went around to see the hot spring area and missed the butterfly park because we wanted to visit the tea planation. But sadly we didn't have enough time as we needed to get back before 6pm. It was already 2pm and tea planatation was probably another 45mins away.
So we headed back. Both the girls dozed off when B was driving, poor him! He got lost and had to wake me up eventually. The map reader. So there I was, and we managed to get back into the city just in time for a nice hot shower before returning the car. The car got into a little accident (scratch) earlier during parking but all is covered, so everything was fine! Phew!
A last dinner by the coast, followed by a Green Tea donut... mmm, it didn't make my stomach feel better! LOL. I also made a trip down to the bakery to buy home a few of the chocolate balls! After some last minute souvenir shopping and an hour of card games, we knocked out. No more spooky night finally... I woke up earlier the next morning to pack, had my breakfast before we cabbed to the airport where we bought ourselves a last sinful meal in Kota Kinabalu - KFC!
Back home to Singapore on Tigers. All in all, a nice relaxing but muscle aching trip! I'm happy I get some sun, have a bit of a tan now!
Kota Kinabalu (iii) - Things not right
When they are not right, they are obviously wrong...
We were there over the weekend, fortunately we were able to see their Sunday Street Market down Jalan Gaya. Weather was pretty awesome that morning. B's girlfriend was unwell so we went ahead. There were a lots of things on sale from food, clothes, animals, customised name decor, antiques, junks to souvenirs. I chanced upon this stall which sold jade and gem stones based on the chinese horoscope and the superstitious me couldn't help but got stuck there shopping for gifts for myself and family. Half way through the market shopping, the weather changed and started to pour. I lost B but I told him to meet at the entrance should we lost our way. So I went back for him, put on my disposable raincoat and we headed back.
The girlfriend got better, and suddenly the weather too! So we decied to go ahead with our initial plan of visiting a nearby island - Manukan island. Supposedly it's famous for its clear waters with plentiful fishes. I forgot to get the white bread (only have the flavoured ones), so couldn't feed them :(. The boat ride there was very bumpy, the sea was so choppy that our bums were furiously bumping on the seat all the time. Ouch! Besides that, sitting in front of a mini speedboat didn't make it better, I felt like I would be thrown out of the boat anytime. Scary shit.
We enjoyed a chilled time playing cards, laying and sitting there doing nothing... having our little picnic. I love collecting shells so I went around for some ;) They didn't have a sign that says I can't (or I never happened to read that one on this island!).
The following day, we were out in the sea again. This time, for snorkeling. The tour company picked us up in a jeep and after a somewhat less bumpy ride, we arrived at Gaya island. The sea was still choppy and that freaked me out - I'm seasick! I couldn't wait to get out of the boat when we reached the terminal... and I know something wasn't right. We were given a short briefing, and then the equipments to snorkel. We were in wetsuit, fins and snorkel masks. They decided to take us to Sapi island since it was pretty choppy at Gaya island as the water visibility was very poor.
Off to Sapi. Another shaky ride. When I got there, I somehow predicted the snorkeling in the choppy sea would be a disaster for me. But we have paid and we were all going ahead with it. The visibility wasn't much better, plus the strong waves actually threw me against the shore (Ouch! Ended up with multiple small scratches!). The shore had many small rocks and corals so not very safe to walk with bare feet, but getting into the waters with fins wasn't any easier. LOL. Managed to get in with a snorkeling instructor whom was by my side the whole time (Thank God for that!), because I really couldn't imagine with those currents, where I would end up if I was to do it alone! He brought me further out with the safety ring, I didn't panick but I wasn't feeling right. I looked down and saw the beautiful fishes so close to my face, I almost could touch them. However I couldn't breathe properly with the mask, I realised I was seasick when I decided I wanted to head back to the shore. I threw up and I decided that was the end of it for my snorkeling. It was too choppy for a seasick person like me :(
I took a little nap along with B's girlfriend while the rest went out for the adventurous snorkeling in choppy sea. Then we all headed back for a nice lunch. B got restless and decided to trek to the highest point at Gaya island... Feeling that I didn't do enough that morning, I decided to go along but B's girlfriend made the right choice to skip it. The track was tough and old, no one has done it for a long time. Everywhere was covered with dried leaves and path was blocked with fallen trees. I was so glad when I finally made it back down - Christ's, that was tough! After that, I went on my own little self-exploration when the tide went down... I could even walk under the bridge which we walked this morning and was still covered with waters.
After this, we went back for a shower before a dinner by the coast. It was a great feeling especially after such a tiring day! Satay - yum yum! But my stomach didn't feel right that night, wonder if it was still the seasickness that morning or the food the night before. I threw up but after medicine and sleep, I felt okay the following day.
We were there over the weekend, fortunately we were able to see their Sunday Street Market down Jalan Gaya. Weather was pretty awesome that morning. B's girlfriend was unwell so we went ahead. There were a lots of things on sale from food, clothes, animals, customised name decor, antiques, junks to souvenirs. I chanced upon this stall which sold jade and gem stones based on the chinese horoscope and the superstitious me couldn't help but got stuck there shopping for gifts for myself and family. Half way through the market shopping, the weather changed and started to pour. I lost B but I told him to meet at the entrance should we lost our way. So I went back for him, put on my disposable raincoat and we headed back.
The girlfriend got better, and suddenly the weather too! So we decied to go ahead with our initial plan of visiting a nearby island - Manukan island. Supposedly it's famous for its clear waters with plentiful fishes. I forgot to get the white bread (only have the flavoured ones), so couldn't feed them :(. The boat ride there was very bumpy, the sea was so choppy that our bums were furiously bumping on the seat all the time. Ouch! Besides that, sitting in front of a mini speedboat didn't make it better, I felt like I would be thrown out of the boat anytime. Scary shit.
We enjoyed a chilled time playing cards, laying and sitting there doing nothing... having our little picnic. I love collecting shells so I went around for some ;) They didn't have a sign that says I can't (or I never happened to read that one on this island!).
The following day, we were out in the sea again. This time, for snorkeling. The tour company picked us up in a jeep and after a somewhat less bumpy ride, we arrived at Gaya island. The sea was still choppy and that freaked me out - I'm seasick! I couldn't wait to get out of the boat when we reached the terminal... and I know something wasn't right. We were given a short briefing, and then the equipments to snorkel. We were in wetsuit, fins and snorkel masks. They decided to take us to Sapi island since it was pretty choppy at Gaya island as the water visibility was very poor.
Off to Sapi. Another shaky ride. When I got there, I somehow predicted the snorkeling in the choppy sea would be a disaster for me. But we have paid and we were all going ahead with it. The visibility wasn't much better, plus the strong waves actually threw me against the shore (Ouch! Ended up with multiple small scratches!). The shore had many small rocks and corals so not very safe to walk with bare feet, but getting into the waters with fins wasn't any easier. LOL. Managed to get in with a snorkeling instructor whom was by my side the whole time (Thank God for that!), because I really couldn't imagine with those currents, where I would end up if I was to do it alone! He brought me further out with the safety ring, I didn't panick but I wasn't feeling right. I looked down and saw the beautiful fishes so close to my face, I almost could touch them. However I couldn't breathe properly with the mask, I realised I was seasick when I decided I wanted to head back to the shore. I threw up and I decided that was the end of it for my snorkeling. It was too choppy for a seasick person like me :(
I took a little nap along with B's girlfriend while the rest went out for the adventurous snorkeling in choppy sea. Then we all headed back for a nice lunch. B got restless and decided to trek to the highest point at Gaya island... Feeling that I didn't do enough that morning, I decided to go along but B's girlfriend made the right choice to skip it. The track was tough and old, no one has done it for a long time. Everywhere was covered with dried leaves and path was blocked with fallen trees. I was so glad when I finally made it back down - Christ's, that was tough! After that, I went on my own little self-exploration when the tide went down... I could even walk under the bridge which we walked this morning and was still covered with waters.
After this, we went back for a shower before a dinner by the coast. It was a great feeling especially after such a tiring day! Satay - yum yum! But my stomach didn't feel right that night, wonder if it was still the seasickness that morning or the food the night before. I threw up but after medicine and sleep, I felt okay the following day.
Kota Kinabalu (ii) - Fun hell yea
At the beginning of the trip, things went smoothly... except for the weather which annoyed me the whole time! I hate walking under the heat and humidity the whole day (imagine doing that in Singapore too!).
We were heading to the bank, when I asked a kind gentleman for directions. Coincidentally, he was heading in the same direction and offered to take us there! How kind! Before we parted ways, again I asked him about getting to Times Square (where we are heading later). And to our surprise, he would be on the way back to his office and could drop us off along the way! Almost couldn't believe the luck, he's an angel! Thank you mister, you left me a very good impression of Sabah!
And so we managed to get to Times Square where we sorted out our snorkeling and water rafting tours. Both excellent. I am glad I read those reviews before we got there because what we got was quality service. We started water rafting the following day as we had a rough plan what we were going to do the next couple of days.
Sunset in Kota Kinabalu was spectacular, especially when you dined just by the coast!
Water rafting really gets me going... I was looking forward to it the whole time. With Exotic Adventure, it was genuine fun and I felt taken care of, especially when the currents swept me away, at least 2 of the instructors came to my aid... They also specifically asked if I was okay when I was down in the waters. They came up with some "evil plan" to make us capsized or at least get a few of us into the waters. Unfortunately I was too witty for them, I realised their master plan and avoided it at all costs, instead my friends fell into the waters! But it was still great fun... If I'm ever back for the Padas river water rafting, I would still go back to them! Thanks Ronald & Angelo.
Shopping is average in Kota Kinabalu, just like in other parts of Malaysia but they didn't have many malls and the only decent ones were Warisan Square (my favourite) and Centrepoint. Warisan Square is cool and hippy, it's divided into multiple blocks and you can walk through them on level 2, they also have many individualistic shops and bigger brands.
They have a couple of markets there. One of it is Central Market where you can get some dry food (and I think clothes, household stuff and a ready hawker upstairs). Another is Filipino Market for handicrafts which I felt is a tourist trap, overpriced and not original (they are imported anyway) - can't be bothered to bargain. Then there's the wet market beside the car park which gets all lively and busy when the sun goes down. Looks like they do their "marketing" during night time! Walk right through the fishmongers and fruit & vegetables stalls, you get to a sheltered area where you can get grilled seafood, BBQ wings and coconut drinks. We dined there once, even though they charged us a touristy price, it was still pretty affordable and still cheaper than Singapore.
I also visited this bakery, Multi-Bake, near our hostel and found their version of rum balls named chocolate balls because they are without the rum! I love them... could have them almost every single day ;)
Food. Waistline. Caution.
We were heading to the bank, when I asked a kind gentleman for directions. Coincidentally, he was heading in the same direction and offered to take us there! How kind! Before we parted ways, again I asked him about getting to Times Square (where we are heading later). And to our surprise, he would be on the way back to his office and could drop us off along the way! Almost couldn't believe the luck, he's an angel! Thank you mister, you left me a very good impression of Sabah!
And so we managed to get to Times Square where we sorted out our snorkeling and water rafting tours. Both excellent. I am glad I read those reviews before we got there because what we got was quality service. We started water rafting the following day as we had a rough plan what we were going to do the next couple of days.
Sunset in Kota Kinabalu was spectacular, especially when you dined just by the coast!
Water rafting really gets me going... I was looking forward to it the whole time. With Exotic Adventure, it was genuine fun and I felt taken care of, especially when the currents swept me away, at least 2 of the instructors came to my aid... They also specifically asked if I was okay when I was down in the waters. They came up with some "evil plan" to make us capsized or at least get a few of us into the waters. Unfortunately I was too witty for them, I realised their master plan and avoided it at all costs, instead my friends fell into the waters! But it was still great fun... If I'm ever back for the Padas river water rafting, I would still go back to them! Thanks Ronald & Angelo.
Shopping is average in Kota Kinabalu, just like in other parts of Malaysia but they didn't have many malls and the only decent ones were Warisan Square (my favourite) and Centrepoint. Warisan Square is cool and hippy, it's divided into multiple blocks and you can walk through them on level 2, they also have many individualistic shops and bigger brands.
They have a couple of markets there. One of it is Central Market where you can get some dry food (and I think clothes, household stuff and a ready hawker upstairs). Another is Filipino Market for handicrafts which I felt is a tourist trap, overpriced and not original (they are imported anyway) - can't be bothered to bargain. Then there's the wet market beside the car park which gets all lively and busy when the sun goes down. Looks like they do their "marketing" during night time! Walk right through the fishmongers and fruit & vegetables stalls, you get to a sheltered area where you can get grilled seafood, BBQ wings and coconut drinks. We dined there once, even though they charged us a touristy price, it was still pretty affordable and still cheaper than Singapore.
I also visited this bakery, Multi-Bake, near our hostel and found their version of rum balls named chocolate balls because they are without the rum! I love them... could have them almost every single day ;)
Food. Waistline. Caution.
9.8.09
Kota Kinabalu (i) - Hell of a start
When everyone hears about Kota Kinabalu, they think about mountain climbing & trekking... and I was there for something else. Some people might find it a boring holiday destination if they're not trekking, but I assure you there's more to it, at least good enough for a weekend getaway (I'm sure my travel companions both will agree). We did have a good time :)
For your information, Kota Kinabalu is resided in Sabah, East Malaysia and it's a separate island away from Malaysia (West) itself. It's connected to Sarawak/Indonesia just down south.
Below's a short journal I wrote on the flight:
6am. I woke up, a sleepy head.
Dad was awake (like always). He did the usual naggings,"Did you bring this, did you forget that?" I washed up and in no time was ready to leave. Everyone else was soundly in bed, sister got up briefly to say goodbye and went back to lala land.
I bought my breakfast and headed to the airport via train. Unlike the past few times, I just flagged a cab, this morning I saw the morning rush. The train, filled with students on the way to school, had unusually few travellers on the same journey as me.
Got there in time; my travelling companions were on their way. I took my time to finish my breakfast, put on my hoody and tried to soak myself in the holiday mood. But it didn't come. That feeling. It didn't this morning too. I felt unbearing to leave the last few times, at the same time, it was usually packed with excitement. But this time, I didn't feel the later. I need to replenish it somehow.
Three different passports, one common destination.
I'm travelling with a couple (my 1st time). I haven't met B's girlfriend but sure enough she's easy to get along - a great start! The last holiday left me drained, tired and fearful of new companions. But I know this time, I didn't have to worry. I'm writing this an hour into the flight, we've another hour more to go. Now it's time to take a nap... till later.
...
...
...
I didn't get much sleep during the flight. Some time before we landed, we met some air turbulence and then later on we had a 10 - 20 metres drop which freaked most of the passengers out. I was stunned, prepared for the worst and held on tightly to my safety belt. "That's it! Are we crashing?" That went through my mind. Some people screamed and shrieked! When we finally landed with a crash landing (Thanks Pilot! :S), the cabin was filled with relief and laughter. We were safe.
A very general impression of Kota Kinabalu after arriving for some hours. Friendly. Considerate drivers. Hot & humid (like Singapore). Traditional. Poor and rich contrast (slums, kampung houses, houses on stilts via wooden houses up the mountain via terrace house/modern flats).
Somehow I'm not sure if the wooden houses up the mountain belong to the wealthier people, as it means they will have to drive down to city (have to own a car at least)... and the availability of bigger space for a bigger house.
For your information, Kota Kinabalu is resided in Sabah, East Malaysia and it's a separate island away from Malaysia (West) itself. It's connected to Sarawak/Indonesia just down south.
Below's a short journal I wrote on the flight:
6am. I woke up, a sleepy head.
Dad was awake (like always). He did the usual naggings,"Did you bring this, did you forget that?" I washed up and in no time was ready to leave. Everyone else was soundly in bed, sister got up briefly to say goodbye and went back to lala land.
I bought my breakfast and headed to the airport via train. Unlike the past few times, I just flagged a cab, this morning I saw the morning rush. The train, filled with students on the way to school, had unusually few travellers on the same journey as me.
Got there in time; my travelling companions were on their way. I took my time to finish my breakfast, put on my hoody and tried to soak myself in the holiday mood. But it didn't come. That feeling. It didn't this morning too. I felt unbearing to leave the last few times, at the same time, it was usually packed with excitement. But this time, I didn't feel the later. I need to replenish it somehow.
Three different passports, one common destination.
I'm travelling with a couple (my 1st time). I haven't met B's girlfriend but sure enough she's easy to get along - a great start! The last holiday left me drained, tired and fearful of new companions. But I know this time, I didn't have to worry. I'm writing this an hour into the flight, we've another hour more to go. Now it's time to take a nap... till later.
...
...
...
I didn't get much sleep during the flight. Some time before we landed, we met some air turbulence and then later on we had a 10 - 20 metres drop which freaked most of the passengers out. I was stunned, prepared for the worst and held on tightly to my safety belt. "That's it! Are we crashing?" That went through my mind. Some people screamed and shrieked! When we finally landed with a crash landing (Thanks Pilot! :S), the cabin was filled with relief and laughter. We were safe.
A very general impression of Kota Kinabalu after arriving for some hours. Friendly. Considerate drivers. Hot & humid (like Singapore). Traditional. Poor and rich contrast (slums, kampung houses, houses on stilts via wooden houses up the mountain via terrace house/modern flats).
Somehow I'm not sure if the wooden houses up the mountain belong to the wealthier people, as it means they will have to drive down to city (have to own a car at least)... and the availability of bigger space for a bigger house.
I lost him... for eternity
Something that everyone should try once in your lifetime? Lose a phone or a wallet.
If it's a couple of years back, I think I would take it very hard... Almost 10 years back, my wallet was stolen back in school. Even though I still didn't know who the culprit is (but I kept having a vision it was someone in my class), the kind thief had the decency to return the important stuff which of course posted no value to him. I got back my identity cards, bank cards and library card. Wallet was gone, so were the cash and my ez-link card (our transportation pass).
Some days ago, shortly after arriving back in Singapore from Kota Kinabalu... I realised I lost my mobile phone (my little white man). He's gone. I searched for him frantically on the train, couldn't believe I have lost him. I didn't know how it happened but the thing is it has happened... What can I do? I figured there's no point crying over spilled milk after a fruitless attempt to ring my own number. At that point of time, hope sank, heart sank. The next best thing to do is to curse that person who has taken it away!
When I got home, the first thing I did was to call the airport's Lost & Found, but then I realised if someone has taken it or stolen it, it will never come back. Then I rang SingTel to suspend my line. I'm so disappointed why Singapore didn't implement the disabling of the phone with IMEI number! What's the use of having an IMEI number, f****** useless! And when I finally managed to get myself back on my feet, I lodged a police report. I have also informed the airline... and now probably see if I can get any sort of compensation from travel insurance.
Everyone else is saying,"Time to get a new phone." But let me grieve over him first. The 2 years together had been turbulent, especially the first couple of months trying to get him fixed. After that, he seemed to be a very fine companion, always there when I needed him, especially waking me up every morning. That's probably the only thing I am not used to now, no more familiar ringing tone... now I have a human clock - my sister.
I miss that blue light that lit up everytime I pressed his buttons,
I miss how easy he connected to my lappy everytime I on his bluetooth,
I miss how he hanged around my neck and followed everywhere I go,
I miss the sms-es I saved inside, I know I lost them,
I miss all the contact numbers I stored inside, I know they're gone forever,
I miss him, the little white thing.
For now, I'm not contactable, mobile-less and radiation-free. I am quite pleased with the peacefulness at the moment.
If it's a couple of years back, I think I would take it very hard... Almost 10 years back, my wallet was stolen back in school. Even though I still didn't know who the culprit is (but I kept having a vision it was someone in my class), the kind thief had the decency to return the important stuff which of course posted no value to him. I got back my identity cards, bank cards and library card. Wallet was gone, so were the cash and my ez-link card (our transportation pass).
Some days ago, shortly after arriving back in Singapore from Kota Kinabalu... I realised I lost my mobile phone (my little white man). He's gone. I searched for him frantically on the train, couldn't believe I have lost him. I didn't know how it happened but the thing is it has happened... What can I do? I figured there's no point crying over spilled milk after a fruitless attempt to ring my own number. At that point of time, hope sank, heart sank. The next best thing to do is to curse that person who has taken it away!
When I got home, the first thing I did was to call the airport's Lost & Found, but then I realised if someone has taken it or stolen it, it will never come back. Then I rang SingTel to suspend my line. I'm so disappointed why Singapore didn't implement the disabling of the phone with IMEI number! What's the use of having an IMEI number, f****** useless! And when I finally managed to get myself back on my feet, I lodged a police report. I have also informed the airline... and now probably see if I can get any sort of compensation from travel insurance.
Everyone else is saying,"Time to get a new phone." But let me grieve over him first. The 2 years together had been turbulent, especially the first couple of months trying to get him fixed. After that, he seemed to be a very fine companion, always there when I needed him, especially waking me up every morning. That's probably the only thing I am not used to now, no more familiar ringing tone... now I have a human clock - my sister.
I miss that blue light that lit up everytime I pressed his buttons,
I miss how easy he connected to my lappy everytime I on his bluetooth,
I miss how he hanged around my neck and followed everywhere I go,
I miss the sms-es I saved inside, I know I lost them,
I miss all the contact numbers I stored inside, I know they're gone forever,
I miss him, the little white thing.
For now, I'm not contactable, mobile-less and radiation-free. I am quite pleased with the peacefulness at the moment.
30.7.09
... I can fly.
It has been 8 months... since I last boarded a plane. I miss that carefreeness whenever I carry my 10kg worth of load on my back, not knowing what's next or whose next that I will meet? I am addicted to that feeling, that excitement and the element of surprise in life. Almost everyone asked me what's next after my contract ends, I could only smile at them and reply,"A holiday?" My life has no routine, I'm not saving to buy a HDB flat in Singapore or hope to own a car... My life doesn't revolve just around Singapore and I am sure it won't. My best friend loathes my lifestyle or at least I think she does... not sure whether she's envious that I didn't have to care as much as she does about material possession or perhaps she's worried that I can't seem to commit to anything in life. Well, I would love to but I haven't found this something that I'm prepared to give up everything to commit to, unfortunately. I am like a bird who has left a cage and found my wings... I would still come home, but just don't try to clip my wings :)
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