After sorting out the finances, feelings and finishing things off at work, I am ready to face the new year. Here I am, going to bid farewell to 2011.
Next year will be a new challenge. After reaching 30, suddenly I feel adventurous again. Maybe I should do some investment. Maybe I should do something in future that is not for the sake of money, e.g. volunteering at an olive farm or vineyard! Filling bottles with olive oil, stamping on grapes... how carefree is that compared to slogging away in front of a computer??
As everyone gets more competitive, I get more the opposite. I don't want to compete, to be part of them, I want to do something totally the other way round. I want to hide, do my own things and not care about the competition. Living in a society like today stresses me out, they make us constantly worry about our retirement funds, about surviving the inflation, about how much the government taxes us and not improvising, about how most of us struggle to afford a roof over our heads.Why have things changed so much in 20 years? Why? Why? Why? Why are things not so cheap like the past, why aren't buses 25 cents... I would give up the MRT, LRT and whatever we have now if things could go back to the past.
Anyway, I have to accept life as it is, try to be contented as we should. Alamak. The older we get, the more we think. The more we think, the more we worry. Can I be a bit more retarded please? (but I'm kidding!!!)
I have so much to write about the past 2011, I shall start another entry on that.
I hope you guys are ready for 2012 in less than 30 hours!!!
30.12.11
26.12.11
Onboard Logos Hope
If you have no idea what or who Logos Hope is, you're not reading the news, either that or you haven't been out of the house for ages! Check out the link to know more about the huge vessel currently visiting Singapore. It also holds the record of holding the world largest floating book fair. Onboard are 400 crewmembers from over 45 countries who have a common goal of serving the common good, 11 of them are Singaporeans. How I envy them :) With my sea sickness, I doubt I would be able to sail around the world like them! Still, I went for a visit, bought some books and cards, the blanks cards are from various museums in United Kingdom - save me a visit :p Do pay them a visit, as it is their first time they're here, and hopefully not the last. Logos Hope is owned and operated by GBA ships registered under a charitable organization in Germany (I just found out too!) and the ship has sailed around the world, helping countless people in need. Suddenly, I feel like joining them.
French nails
First time, french manicure. Of course, it's not on my own hands. Sister never painted her nails, but when I asked if she wanted me to paint for her. She requested "french manicure", I think it has to do with the word "french", she can never seem to get that out of her head. It's not perfect, but it's easier than I thought.
On the side note, here are my colors. Please note that the painting is a little horrid as I did this after so much gift wrapping, my hands are tired :p
 |
| Using Sally Hansen colors. |
On the side note, here are my colors. Please note that the painting is a little horrid as I did this after so much gift wrapping, my hands are tired :p
 |
| Cola - just the color of the drink, Cola |
 |
| Cynthia - Teal blue, I call it Peacock blue |
Being a volunteer
Besides those activities "forced" by the schools and the companies, this is my second time volunteering. I remember the first time, my sister and me sold paper tulips to raise fund for cancer. It was hard approaching strangers for donations, but when people willingly came up to you, it really made our day. I begin to see and understand why volunteers volunteer when I am one myself. I hang out with people often of similar goals, whom want to do good, to contribute without asking for anything in return. I used to envy these people, I always asked myself why are they so kind, what do they get in return... But today, I don't (and I never found out the answer till today) because it is really enjoyable being one of them. They are usually very nice people whom want to give an extra hand, and the happiness we derive from it, it isn't money. It is the satisfaction we get when we meet other kind people who are willingly to support our cause.
p.s:
On my first day (Mon) we wrapped 35 gifts in 5.5 hours;
On my second day (Fri) we wrapped 119 in 5.5 hours;
On my third (Sat, Christmas eve) we wrapped 98 in 3 hours!
p.s:
On my first day (Mon) we wrapped 35 gifts in 5.5 hours;
On my second day (Fri) we wrapped 119 in 5.5 hours;
On my third (Sat, Christmas eve) we wrapped 98 in 3 hours!
23.12.11
Gone
(fluff)Friends is gone. Another game losing money and decided to close down the app? But they had done so quietly and so many are angry about it because they spent real money on it. I never have the habit of spending on things like that, I probably don't understand how people get so obsessed and began to spend their money on online games that would not give them anything back, except a few minutes of pleasure. Oh well, some people do.
Bye my beloved virtual Tommie. He's the pet giraffe I have in (fluff) for years. Afterall, I still have the real one by my side :)
Bye my beloved virtual Tommie. He's the pet giraffe I have in (fluff) for years. Afterall, I still have the real one by my side :)
22.12.11
30 goodie packs
They come in cute Daiso transparent bags, each fronted by a Santa Claus on a red Christmas wreath. They are selectively packed with Cheezels, Twisties, Andes, Palmer, Toblerone chocolates and some others. Thirty of them. I have meant to give them away to friends and colleagues.
After being a day or two of "Ms Santarina", I am now left with just a few packs to be given out. This year, I have decided to do it a little different, I have allocated some for the auntie at YAMI yogurt, the receptionists, an administrative uncle and two cleaners in the office. The reactions from them varied but it pleased me watching the joy I witnessed on their faces. I wanted to describe it to you, because it is just so different from the ones I get from my colleagues.
Few hours ago, my Facebook status wrote,"Giving the cleaner a goodie pack is more satisfying than giving them to my colleagues. Those are the people who need to feel appreciated." Isn't it true? My mum once worked as a cleaner, and I really detest people who tend to not show them any respect.
So I shall describe the reactions from the few people I mentioned above.
#1 - New receptionist
She has been here for a couple of weeks, thus very new and still warming up to the place. When I passed a goodie pack to her, she seemed really surprised and thanked me immediately. Later that evening, she actually "opened" the door for me which she usually doesn't (pressing a button to release the security door).
#2 - Administrative uncle
A Malay uncle who has been doing the courier and the ad-hoc stuff in the office. Everyone knows him but few really talks to him. He was standing in for the receptionist for lunch when I presented him with a pack. He seemed very glad too. When I saw him again, he actually gave me a very sincere smile.
#3 - Receptionist
She's a familiar face to all and a couple of times I had some small talks with her. Nothing serious or too personal, just very general things usually. When I handed over her a goodie pack, she reacted like the new receptionist, then sent me another thank you message over the IM.
#4 - Cleaner auntie (office)
This plump auntie loves to eat. She would eat at any chance. I would sometimes give her some food as it's her next pastime in the office besides cleaning. She's a little lazy but overall quite harmless, except for her greed for food. So when I gave her a pack, it seemed like just another of the occasion I gifted her food.
#5 - Cleaner auntie (toilet)
This poor auntie always has this grumpy face. I could understand as my mum was once doing the same job. She once cursed and swore when someone made a mess in the toilet, I would too... I couldn't stand it when I see some inconsiderate bitches leaving the toilet paper all over the floor or left their mess in the cubicle. She always come at specific timings to replenish the stuff in the toilets, so I waited for her the whole afternoon today. She's also often left stranded outside the door when the receptionist is away, she would press the bell but no one came to her aid. Then I would go to her rescue, often enough for her to recognise me. She would smile and thank me. Then I realised, she's very amiable afterall. Today I went in while she was cleaning the toilet, suddenly stood in front of her and gave it to her. She was shocked when I said,"It's for you!" She recovered and said in Mandarin,"For Christmas?" I said,"Yes!" She gave me a smile that brightened my gloomy day; I am so glad she knows she isn't forgotten.
#6 - YAMI yogurt auntie
The auntie I met when I was a teenager. I haven't visited her for a few weeks now, feeling a little guilty and decided to have one for dinner today. It was about closing time, she was more busy than usual, doing her closing. She seems a little hostile than usual, but soon warmed up when I chit-chatted with her. When she handed me my yogurt, I handed her the goodie pack. Her face lit up and said,"So sweet! Thank you!" I have heard this a few times when I gave out the packs, and always have thought it's a very common thing to do. But hearing that, it sounded like I am an alien!
After being a day or two of "Ms Santarina", I am now left with just a few packs to be given out. This year, I have decided to do it a little different, I have allocated some for the auntie at YAMI yogurt, the receptionists, an administrative uncle and two cleaners in the office. The reactions from them varied but it pleased me watching the joy I witnessed on their faces. I wanted to describe it to you, because it is just so different from the ones I get from my colleagues.
Few hours ago, my Facebook status wrote,"Giving the cleaner a goodie pack is more satisfying than giving them to my colleagues. Those are the people who need to feel appreciated." Isn't it true? My mum once worked as a cleaner, and I really detest people who tend to not show them any respect.
So I shall describe the reactions from the few people I mentioned above.
#1 - New receptionist
She has been here for a couple of weeks, thus very new and still warming up to the place. When I passed a goodie pack to her, she seemed really surprised and thanked me immediately. Later that evening, she actually "opened" the door for me which she usually doesn't (pressing a button to release the security door).
#2 - Administrative uncle
A Malay uncle who has been doing the courier and the ad-hoc stuff in the office. Everyone knows him but few really talks to him. He was standing in for the receptionist for lunch when I presented him with a pack. He seemed very glad too. When I saw him again, he actually gave me a very sincere smile.
#3 - Receptionist
She's a familiar face to all and a couple of times I had some small talks with her. Nothing serious or too personal, just very general things usually. When I handed over her a goodie pack, she reacted like the new receptionist, then sent me another thank you message over the IM.
#4 - Cleaner auntie (office)
This plump auntie loves to eat. She would eat at any chance. I would sometimes give her some food as it's her next pastime in the office besides cleaning. She's a little lazy but overall quite harmless, except for her greed for food. So when I gave her a pack, it seemed like just another of the occasion I gifted her food.
#5 - Cleaner auntie (toilet)
This poor auntie always has this grumpy face. I could understand as my mum was once doing the same job. She once cursed and swore when someone made a mess in the toilet, I would too... I couldn't stand it when I see some inconsiderate bitches leaving the toilet paper all over the floor or left their mess in the cubicle. She always come at specific timings to replenish the stuff in the toilets, so I waited for her the whole afternoon today. She's also often left stranded outside the door when the receptionist is away, she would press the bell but no one came to her aid. Then I would go to her rescue, often enough for her to recognise me. She would smile and thank me. Then I realised, she's very amiable afterall. Today I went in while she was cleaning the toilet, suddenly stood in front of her and gave it to her. She was shocked when I said,"It's for you!" She recovered and said in Mandarin,"For Christmas?" I said,"Yes!" She gave me a smile that brightened my gloomy day; I am so glad she knows she isn't forgotten.
#6 - YAMI yogurt auntie
The auntie I met when I was a teenager. I haven't visited her for a few weeks now, feeling a little guilty and decided to have one for dinner today. It was about closing time, she was more busy than usual, doing her closing. She seems a little hostile than usual, but soon warmed up when I chit-chatted with her. When she handed me my yogurt, I handed her the goodie pack. Her face lit up and said,"So sweet! Thank you!" I have heard this a few times when I gave out the packs, and always have thought it's a very common thing to do. But hearing that, it sounded like I am an alien!
21.12.11
Why? Tell me why?
I'm having a bad day, or should I say I had. So serious that I didn't have the appetite for food, I only had a cup of yogurt and some chocolates. I'm afraid of this society, I'm sick of being in the rat race, I'm tired of competing against others, I have had enough. Living in a place like this, in the world today, I am easily not contented. I don't know why, perhaps I should just do something else, without the sake of earning money. People can volunteer and get paid nothing but still enjoy it. Why do people like us get paid, doing something not as enjoyable, and still do not get the desired happiness?
Perhaps The Red String Book has an answer.
p.s: Thanks Joy for getting a Kinder Joy to cheer me up. She knows I love Kinder Surprise but they are almost non-existent in Singapore now.
Perhaps The Red String Book has an answer.
p.s: Thanks Joy for getting a Kinder Joy to cheer me up. She knows I love Kinder Surprise but they are almost non-existent in Singapore now.
19.12.11
If you suck at gift wrapping, come to us!
I came to know about this event when I did a google search on charity gift wrapping - Love for a dollar. It's basically providing Christmas wrapping service for kind donations going towards Salvation Army. I love my handicrafts, so it is perfect for someone like me. I also found quite a few like-minded people on the same journey.
This morning, I started my first shift. It should be a warm-up before I do it again on Christmas Eve and the Friday before Christmas which I can foresee madness. The first two and a half hours, we literally had no one coming to us with gifts, except for a few kind donations. But later on towards the late afternoon, customers streamed in, mainly students, aunties and uncles whom are not at work. I must say we are quite lucky, we did not encounter anyone who refused to make a donation - any amount, even though we did state a minimum of a dollar. I heard from my fellow volunteer, she encountered one auntie whom made them wrapped the gifts and claimed to have no money when she was carrying a branded handbag and wearing gold necklace. Unfortunately, such people still exists. I hope I don't get to see them during my shifts!
This morning, I started my first shift. It should be a warm-up before I do it again on Christmas Eve and the Friday before Christmas which I can foresee madness. The first two and a half hours, we literally had no one coming to us with gifts, except for a few kind donations. But later on towards the late afternoon, customers streamed in, mainly students, aunties and uncles whom are not at work. I must say we are quite lucky, we did not encounter anyone who refused to make a donation - any amount, even though we did state a minimum of a dollar. I heard from my fellow volunteer, she encountered one auntie whom made them wrapped the gifts and claimed to have no money when she was carrying a branded handbag and wearing gold necklace. Unfortunately, such people still exists. I hope I don't get to see them during my shifts!
Christmas nails
Oh dear, oh dear... it definitely has been a while. What have I been so busy with!! Now I'm back for a little short entry, just to let you know I'm still here! ;)
Here's a little entry for the nails I did for Christmas :)
Here's a little entry for the nails I did for Christmas :)
 |
| China Glaze - Ruby Pumps |
 |
| China Glaze - It's Alive |
27.11.11
Adventures with a cat and a dog
I caught two movies recently.
One of which is The Adventures of Tin Tin. Believe it or not, I didn't grow up reading them, not even one page. It sounded like a good movie and my mate was so keen on it so I went along. Indeed I wasn't disappointed, I was laughing so hard at some point I was afraid my friend would give me a slap! The dog so clever, the animation fantastic and the cops so funny - good choice of having Simon Pegg. A good show but I don't think the young kids would like it as much as the grown ups.
Next, I had complimentary tickets to Puss in the Boots. By the producer of Shrek and Kungfu Panda, one would think its another comedy, but it isn't. Like Tin Tin, it's more of an adventure, this time with humpty dumpty, Jack and the beanstalk incorporated. Still refreshing and I like the fact that the humpty sacrificed itself in the end. If you adore cats, you will surely love the show, how cute is that baby Puss!!
One of which is The Adventures of Tin Tin. Believe it or not, I didn't grow up reading them, not even one page. It sounded like a good movie and my mate was so keen on it so I went along. Indeed I wasn't disappointed, I was laughing so hard at some point I was afraid my friend would give me a slap! The dog so clever, the animation fantastic and the cops so funny - good choice of having Simon Pegg. A good show but I don't think the young kids would like it as much as the grown ups.
Next, I had complimentary tickets to Puss in the Boots. By the producer of Shrek and Kungfu Panda, one would think its another comedy, but it isn't. Like Tin Tin, it's more of an adventure, this time with humpty dumpty, Jack and the beanstalk incorporated. Still refreshing and I like the fact that the humpty sacrificed itself in the end. If you adore cats, you will surely love the show, how cute is that baby Puss!!
25.11.11
Little bad heaven
And this is my latest spot, done a few hours ago. Not by myself, but I could almost paint as good as this. The color code is 333 for Chanel, it's dark chocolate. My colleague who is a pro definitely paints SO MUCH better than this salon!!
Got this off deal.com.sg and it was $38, not cheap at all but it was using Chanel colors, a brand I never tried before and thought it would be a new experience. The recent deals are going for $20 for a session of classic manicure plus pedicure or $50 for 3 sessions. How true is the deal? You will only find out when you get there. After this time, I really don't think I want to buy such services, if you are a regular customer and bought a package, the service would be ten times better!
So I went to Little Dot's Haven located at The Bencoolen. It took me a while to find it as it's up one of the stairways, you just need to try peeping into the few "holes". It was empty on a Friday afternoon, so I had the full attention, wonder if it was a good or bad thing as they could then say anything they could make up with? Like, I was asked to top up additional $8 to use the quick dry top and base coat. I thought that was a ridiculous request, you should be using that for your customers already! Do you expect to use "slow dry" when they are paying so much? Then they tried to add on a foot treatment or recommend the gelish nails for additional top up. I hate hard selling, so I insisted not doing them.
Just for your information, the boss of the salon happened to be painting my nails (fingers only of course). Her face seemed to change when I rejected doing the treatment or gelish nails. Why force someone when they do not want it? Anyhow, then she tried to sell me other services like brow waxing. I gave in after her constant "nagging" but that was indeed better than her nails service. I think she should just focus on that than painting my nails!! What a horrible job she has done! She ruined that beautiful color. I had to ask her staff to repaint one hand because it wasn't done properly, the edge was not painted! Geez... If you're going there, I hope you're not getting the boss's personal service!! Seriously... I can paint better.
20.11.11
Blue & yellow
I have been attracted to colors, pastel or bold, bright or dull. Last week I had the baby blue on (yes, one of the Chiang Mai polishes), and it attracted quite a lot of attention as I do not normally have such light colors on my nails. They were soft and mild, and as days passed by, they grew on me. I began to really like it till they started chipping. Not bad - it lasted me a week, the hawthorn color chipped even more quickly.
Yesterday, I was at the BHG's closed door sale and spotted this really catchy color off the Bourjois shelf. It's much cheaper than L'Oreal or the others. It was about S$9.8 before a whooping 30% off. Thanks to BHG for damaging my wallet! I know it's Christmas season but I have been spending far too often, I seem to have lost my self control. S$200 bucks gone this week - on shopping!!! Money is so hard to earn but so easily spent!!! Anyway, before I go off topic, yes, this is a really nice mustard color. It does seem closer to my skin color than what the photo really depicts. I hope it will grow on me because I do like mustard.
Yesterday, I was at the BHG's closed door sale and spotted this really catchy color off the Bourjois shelf. It's much cheaper than L'Oreal or the others. It was about S$9.8 before a whooping 30% off. Thanks to BHG for damaging my wallet! I know it's Christmas season but I have been spending far too often, I seem to have lost my self control. S$200 bucks gone this week - on shopping!!! Money is so hard to earn but so easily spent!!! Anyway, before I go off topic, yes, this is a really nice mustard color. It does seem closer to my skin color than what the photo really depicts. I hope it will grow on me because I do like mustard.
19.11.11
Gimme change!
I'm a sucker for changes. When anyone around me encounters a change in their life, I am envious. Is it a disease or some kind of addiction?? I don't know.
My sister found a new job. And recently, a few people in the company left, one in less than 3 months, the other in less than 6 months. When things remain stagnant, I crave for changes. It's not that I am unhappy at my current place, but things are becoming too much of a routine, and it annoys me. Can all you people who are leading a routine life tell me how you do it??
My sister found a new job. And recently, a few people in the company left, one in less than 3 months, the other in less than 6 months. When things remain stagnant, I crave for changes. It's not that I am unhappy at my current place, but things are becoming too much of a routine, and it annoys me. Can all you people who are leading a routine life tell me how you do it??
14.11.11
Chiang Mai IV - ❤ elephants
"Elephant Nature Park, Baan Chang Elephant Park, Elephant Nature Park, Baan Chang Elephant Park, Elephant Nature Park, Baan Chang Elephant Park..."
It kept running through my head, then I decided to drop both an email about my visit before making a decision. I made up my mind on the later as they seemed patient enough and did not rush me to make a booking. From what I read, Baan Chang is a smaller conservation centre and houses about 17 elephants.
Due to my burn, I postponed the trip to the second last day in Chiang Mai. I didn't want to cancel it as deep down I really wanted to do this, so I rang and asked if I could take part in things that wouldn't aggravate my wound. The person communicating with me was nice enough to suggest what I could do. But in fact I didn't skip any of the activities ;)
I was the first one to be picked up, and soon the van filled up and we arrived at the park about an hour later. We got a short briefing by the park owner. I am now confused who is the park owner, as this guy Pom says he is, while the lady on the phone talking to me named Tinar is too. Each of us pay 2400 bahts for it, its about S$100. The money as the owner said goes towards keeping the elephants full and happy and improving the home for them.
I was thrilled when I first saw the elephants. Since we arrived, we could see from afar they were swaying their trunks happily side to side. When we got nearer with baskets of sugar canes and bananas, you could see them dying to get near to you. But they were chained to the trees for safety reasons. I got to feed 3 different elephants and also got pictures taken. I did seem really delighted on the pictures.
After feeding, two elephants were brought up to demonstrate the bareback riding. We were taught simple commands to instruct them to sit, walk, turn and stop. We then each took turns to get on the elephant. After that, we were asked to get on a second time to make them walk a short distance and command them at the same time.
Doesn't the elephant look pretty happy? I don't know but it does seem like they really are. It's infectious and I am really glad I was there to spend time with them! They are not smelly like most people think! Even with their dungs in the bath pool, I didn't smell a thing. Probably I'm intoxicated by them, still am. :D
We had lunch after the riding lesson. After food, we were going to go trekking with the elephants! Two to one elephant, I shared Jumbu (her Thai name isn't spelt like this though but Woody, our trainer, said its the name of the fruit) with a 65-year-old American auntie. I sat in front, commanding the elephant on the way up, but Jumbu was always hungry, she kept getting sidetracked (by food of course). It took a while before we finally got to the destination then they had a rest before we made our way down. I decided not to ride on the way down so I walked between the elephants, and trying to avoid getting my face smacked by their wagging tails. LOL.
We walked them to their bath pool where they happily soaked themselves. Some layed down and gosh... pooed at the same time!!! The baby elephant (about 2 years) was sitting in the middle, getting scrubbed by the caretaker. So so so adorable! Auntie and I began to wash Jumbu too. Some of the people in the tour decided to just watch, they were probably afraid of the "dirty water". After a while, I got distracted and started splashing at the passing elephants. Most of them are older and ignored my splashing, I think they quite enjoyed the cool water getting on them. But the baby elephant was the most cheeky, he went around spraying water... and when I splashed on him, he made sure he had his revenge too!
Thanks to Woody who caught this funny picture! The elephants sure made my day and a fantastic end to my holiday. I would recommend anyone doing this if you're an animal lover :)
It kept running through my head, then I decided to drop both an email about my visit before making a decision. I made up my mind on the later as they seemed patient enough and did not rush me to make a booking. From what I read, Baan Chang is a smaller conservation centre and houses about 17 elephants.
Due to my burn, I postponed the trip to the second last day in Chiang Mai. I didn't want to cancel it as deep down I really wanted to do this, so I rang and asked if I could take part in things that wouldn't aggravate my wound. The person communicating with me was nice enough to suggest what I could do. But in fact I didn't skip any of the activities ;)
I was the first one to be picked up, and soon the van filled up and we arrived at the park about an hour later. We got a short briefing by the park owner. I am now confused who is the park owner, as this guy Pom says he is, while the lady on the phone talking to me named Tinar is too. Each of us pay 2400 bahts for it, its about S$100. The money as the owner said goes towards keeping the elephants full and happy and improving the home for them.
I was thrilled when I first saw the elephants. Since we arrived, we could see from afar they were swaying their trunks happily side to side. When we got nearer with baskets of sugar canes and bananas, you could see them dying to get near to you. But they were chained to the trees for safety reasons. I got to feed 3 different elephants and also got pictures taken. I did seem really delighted on the pictures.
After feeding, two elephants were brought up to demonstrate the bareback riding. We were taught simple commands to instruct them to sit, walk, turn and stop. We then each took turns to get on the elephant. After that, we were asked to get on a second time to make them walk a short distance and command them at the same time.
Doesn't the elephant look pretty happy? I don't know but it does seem like they really are. It's infectious and I am really glad I was there to spend time with them! They are not smelly like most people think! Even with their dungs in the bath pool, I didn't smell a thing. Probably I'm intoxicated by them, still am. :D
We had lunch after the riding lesson. After food, we were going to go trekking with the elephants! Two to one elephant, I shared Jumbu (her Thai name isn't spelt like this though but Woody, our trainer, said its the name of the fruit) with a 65-year-old American auntie. I sat in front, commanding the elephant on the way up, but Jumbu was always hungry, she kept getting sidetracked (by food of course). It took a while before we finally got to the destination then they had a rest before we made our way down. I decided not to ride on the way down so I walked between the elephants, and trying to avoid getting my face smacked by their wagging tails. LOL.
We walked them to their bath pool where they happily soaked themselves. Some layed down and gosh... pooed at the same time!!! The baby elephant (about 2 years) was sitting in the middle, getting scrubbed by the caretaker. So so so adorable! Auntie and I began to wash Jumbu too. Some of the people in the tour decided to just watch, they were probably afraid of the "dirty water". After a while, I got distracted and started splashing at the passing elephants. Most of them are older and ignored my splashing, I think they quite enjoyed the cool water getting on them. But the baby elephant was the most cheeky, he went around spraying water... and when I splashed on him, he made sure he had his revenge too!
Thanks to Woody who caught this funny picture! The elephants sure made my day and a fantastic end to my holiday. I would recommend anyone doing this if you're an animal lover :)
13.11.11
Chiang Mai III - Temples
Indeed, the Rose of the North, Chiang Mai, has countless temples. One cannot even start to count.
Someone said if you haven't been to Doi Suthep, then you haven't been to Chiang Mai at all. We made our way there, up the spiralling road up the mountain and then 300 steps up to the temple. The temple is huge, majestic and elaborated. One should take the time to notice and appreciate the beauty of it. The bells hanging at the edge of the roof, the wishes hanging on the rows of golden bells, the gold statues, the coins stuck onto a piece of stone, even the tiles, everything seems to be made with care and thoughts. Also a mini garden with beautiful animal/monk/child-like statues (like a mini heaven), you will see at the back of the temple. Around the temple, there are many cute statues that would bring a smile on your face.
Worth a mention - the oldest temple in Chiang Mai, right in the city. We did not get to enter as we were in shorts. Unfortunately, this one is becoming touristy, they even charge for loaning you something to wrap in if you want to enter. We did have a tour around the surrounding, go to the back and you'll see elephant statues along with other delicately designed accompanying temples. Many of the temple do look similar.
Here's some quotes (click on picture to magnify) I snapped from one of the temples, they are on different trees around the compound. I thought it would be nice to share them. I do like most of them, they do make a lot of sense. The few favourites of mine are "If there is nothing that you like, you must like the things that you have" and "Until death, there is nothing enough". Guess life should be as simple as it is, we are borned with nothing, remember?
One of the more unique temples we saw. This is somewhere in the middle within the gates. Sister likes this best apparently. We weren't not allowed to go up, so we could only look from far. There are also many other interesting temples around this one.
The cutest award goes to this one, outside the gates, its along Thapae Road. They even have a Donald Duck statue. There are many animal statues and makes it almost zoo-alike. There is no other similar to this.
My favourite beside Doi Suthep is this. I don't remember names for these temples as we didn't specifically look for them, it was just on the map and we decided to have a look. This one has a grand entrance, look at the stone entrance. Then most of the temple is built with wood (or at least it looks like it), then there are massive baskets of yellow flags (not sure of its significance). At the little green garden behind, there was also a monk reading, with a dog sitting besides him... so peaceful.
Someone said if you haven't been to Doi Suthep, then you haven't been to Chiang Mai at all. We made our way there, up the spiralling road up the mountain and then 300 steps up to the temple. The temple is huge, majestic and elaborated. One should take the time to notice and appreciate the beauty of it. The bells hanging at the edge of the roof, the wishes hanging on the rows of golden bells, the gold statues, the coins stuck onto a piece of stone, even the tiles, everything seems to be made with care and thoughts. Also a mini garden with beautiful animal/monk/child-like statues (like a mini heaven), you will see at the back of the temple. Around the temple, there are many cute statues that would bring a smile on your face.
Worth a mention - the oldest temple in Chiang Mai, right in the city. We did not get to enter as we were in shorts. Unfortunately, this one is becoming touristy, they even charge for loaning you something to wrap in if you want to enter. We did have a tour around the surrounding, go to the back and you'll see elephant statues along with other delicately designed accompanying temples. Many of the temple do look similar.
Here's some quotes (click on picture to magnify) I snapped from one of the temples, they are on different trees around the compound. I thought it would be nice to share them. I do like most of them, they do make a lot of sense. The few favourites of mine are "If there is nothing that you like, you must like the things that you have" and "Until death, there is nothing enough". Guess life should be as simple as it is, we are borned with nothing, remember?
One of the more unique temples we saw. This is somewhere in the middle within the gates. Sister likes this best apparently. We weren't not allowed to go up, so we could only look from far. There are also many other interesting temples around this one.
The cutest award goes to this one, outside the gates, its along Thapae Road. They even have a Donald Duck statue. There are many animal statues and makes it almost zoo-alike. There is no other similar to this.
My favourite beside Doi Suthep is this. I don't remember names for these temples as we didn't specifically look for them, it was just on the map and we decided to have a look. This one has a grand entrance, look at the stone entrance. Then most of the temple is built with wood (or at least it looks like it), then there are massive baskets of yellow flags (not sure of its significance). At the little green garden behind, there was also a monk reading, with a dog sitting besides him... so peaceful.
Chiang Mai II - Yum Yum
And here's to the topic which most people like... FOOD! Those mentioned are carefully selected from the many meals we have had during the trip. Disclaimer: We did have some very good food, though authenticity not proven :P
I adore the Thailand fruit shakes, I always without fail have them on every trip to Thailand. The best one (shown above) is at Potluck Gallery, a mini shop cum cafe we chanced upon between our temples visit. The shake is huge, I swear taller than my face! And oh so fresh!!!
We also found Khao Soi, the Northern Thailand cuisine, recommended by my Bangkok colleagues. I like it so much we had it twice at the same place. I tried the pork and beef while sister sticked to her choice of chicken. I couldn't be bothered to look for it at other places, as we found it at a local eatery very near to our hotel. For a comparison, most people compared it to our Laksa, but it's more towards curry gravy but less thick.
Superb mango salad from the food stall along the Sunday Walking Market. The walking market is an eye-opener indeed, many sold handicrafts, food, clothes and even shoes. I did not buy much except for food and a few small stuff, like an anklet and postcards. But the sister got herself tonnes of rubbish :P I am somehow glad we missed the Saturday market else she would have bought even more!
Next is iBerry, a super cool garden cafe. I mentioned in a previous post, a place recommended by my friend who went earlier. We popped by the 1st day after a temple visit, sister was fascinated by the cakes and so we did that and the drinks. But we were upset we didn't get to try the ice cream, and so we went back on the last day for a second time! The ice cream that matched my nail colors (just coincidence)! These were my picks, Blue Havana and Brownie as sister ordered the ones I had on my mind Starfruit and Guave with salted plum sorbet. So we shared them all.
This is my Phad Thai tom yum with chicken, ice green tea with honey with sister's fried rice with pineapple, ham, raisin and cashew nut from Khun Mor's Cuisine. We did this right after the iBerry, to be honest, I wasn't hungry!! But it was about lunch time and the place was packed, we reckoned we should do a proper local lunch before we were to head for the airport. The menu is impressive, so much variety... Take a look at their website, I am surprised they even have an online version of it! The food was good, I just wish I was more hungry and could have eaten more!!
Last but not least, one of the dishes I made during my Thai cooking class with Asia Scenic Thai Cooking School. Stir-fried chicken with cashew nuts. I like the fact they have a farm for students to cook at, but I did the town one for convenience. My review will be on Tripadvisor. I did this alone as the sister fancies nothing except pampering herself with foot massage. I enjoyed the experience and especially learning something from another culture, now I have a recipe book from them which I will try out when I have some spare time to cook. I also did tom yum soup and green curry. They didn't taste so bad actually and in fact better than a dinner I had outside!
I adore the Thailand fruit shakes, I always without fail have them on every trip to Thailand. The best one (shown above) is at Potluck Gallery, a mini shop cum cafe we chanced upon between our temples visit. The shake is huge, I swear taller than my face! And oh so fresh!!!
We also found Khao Soi, the Northern Thailand cuisine, recommended by my Bangkok colleagues. I like it so much we had it twice at the same place. I tried the pork and beef while sister sticked to her choice of chicken. I couldn't be bothered to look for it at other places, as we found it at a local eatery very near to our hotel. For a comparison, most people compared it to our Laksa, but it's more towards curry gravy but less thick.
Superb mango salad from the food stall along the Sunday Walking Market. The walking market is an eye-opener indeed, many sold handicrafts, food, clothes and even shoes. I did not buy much except for food and a few small stuff, like an anklet and postcards. But the sister got herself tonnes of rubbish :P I am somehow glad we missed the Saturday market else she would have bought even more!
Next is iBerry, a super cool garden cafe. I mentioned in a previous post, a place recommended by my friend who went earlier. We popped by the 1st day after a temple visit, sister was fascinated by the cakes and so we did that and the drinks. But we were upset we didn't get to try the ice cream, and so we went back on the last day for a second time! The ice cream that matched my nail colors (just coincidence)! These were my picks, Blue Havana and Brownie as sister ordered the ones I had on my mind Starfruit and Guave with salted plum sorbet. So we shared them all.
This is my Phad Thai tom yum with chicken, ice green tea with honey with sister's fried rice with pineapple, ham, raisin and cashew nut from Khun Mor's Cuisine. We did this right after the iBerry, to be honest, I wasn't hungry!! But it was about lunch time and the place was packed, we reckoned we should do a proper local lunch before we were to head for the airport. The menu is impressive, so much variety... Take a look at their website, I am surprised they even have an online version of it! The food was good, I just wish I was more hungry and could have eaten more!!
Last but not least, one of the dishes I made during my Thai cooking class with Asia Scenic Thai Cooking School. Stir-fried chicken with cashew nuts. I like the fact they have a farm for students to cook at, but I did the town one for convenience. My review will be on Tripadvisor. I did this alone as the sister fancies nothing except pampering herself with foot massage. I enjoyed the experience and especially learning something from another culture, now I have a recipe book from them which I will try out when I have some spare time to cook. I also did tom yum soup and green curry. They didn't taste so bad actually and in fact better than a dinner I had outside!
12.11.11
Chiang Mai I - Yi Peng
It's time for my travel journal again! Unlike the past, I'll be focusing less on the details but just the highlights of the trip :)
My main objective when I planned this trip is to join the mass lantern release at this event, Yeepeng or Yi Peng Festival. Apparently, it's a Thai buddhist event held by the locals. Here's a little extract from Wiki:
I managed to figure out the date for this year's festival and booked my ticket, unfortunately many people booked for the wrong date as there are two this year and the later one is made up specifically for the tourists. You need to pay 100USD for the later one, while the first is free. We found Jack from the forum and got him to take us there.
Before the event, we had free food donated from the Buddhist temple. Then we bought a lantern, found a spot to sit and waited for the ceremony to begin. After the sun set, the monks strolled in on the red carpet, there were chantings and prayers before they finally lit the first khom loi and then helpers came around to light our candle holders. Then it was our turn! It was very nerve-wrecking as the lantern would easily get burnt if not done properly given the huge size. Fortunately, there were many Thai people around whom were very willingly to provide the extra help :)
We were sitting togeher with some Americans who came along with Jack. Emily was travelling alone so we shared her lantern as well as she couldn't possibly handle the lantern alone! The first time was exciting, my sister and I lit it with some help, but we were so nervous we let it go without making a wish! Then when you looked up the sky, here's the view we got.
It was magnificent, breathtaking, stunning! Everyone was speechless, admiring the sight! Touching!! I was so glad I came, I was there and I participated in it!
Then when we lit Emily's lantern, we were more ready this time. It nearly caught fire but thanks to the local, we saved it! We finally got it up, and before we let go, I screamed, "Make a wish!" We closed our eyes for a moment, and then I said, "Ready?" They all nodded and we released it! I shrieked and tears almost flowed down! It was so surreal and I would want to do this again (maybe at Taiwan's Pingxi Festival!!) or perhaps back here in Chiang Mai!
I was so restless I couldn't stop going around snapping pictures. Then I carelessly bumped into one of the blown out candle holders (used to light the lantern), and the hot wax got splashed over my shoulder and my face. I was still calm, but I told them I got burnt then they immediately doused me with plenty of water. I remembered I saw the First Aid booth while I was walking around, so I walked myself there. I wasn't in lot of pain, but my arm felt hot. My face was fine, phew. I had to remove my shirt to have the wet towels administered over my burns, fortunately that day I decided to wear something underneath! Seemed almost like this had been planned! There was a doctor on-site, and many others soon came in with similar burns. I was given a pain-killer after they managed to cool down my burns with the wet towels, and then a presciption so I could get medicine from a pharmacy.
Thanks to Jack and his wife, Ting, I managed to get to a pharmacy and Ting also kindly gave me some burn cream when we visited their stall at the Sunday Walking Market the following day. Blisters came up right away. So it's second degree burn. But fortunately it wasn't so bad that I needed to go to a hospital. It was only the 2nd day of my trip and I had so much planned!! I was so worried I got to cancel my elephant mahout training! This got to be one of the worst accidents I have since I travelled.
Despite the burn, I felt blessed enough that I pulled through the holiday smoothly. No infection. No burn on my face. No pain (not much that I can remember!). And right now, the new skin has already formed, it doesn't look like I will have any scar too. Thank you for looking after me!
My main objective when I planned this trip is to join the mass lantern release at this event, Yeepeng or Yi Peng Festival. Apparently, it's a Thai buddhist event held by the locals. Here's a little extract from Wiki:
"Loi Krathong coincides with the Lanna (northern Thai) festival known as "Yi Peng". Yi Peng is held on a full moon of the 2nd month of the Lanna calendar. The festival is meant as a time for tham bun, to make merit. People usually make khom loi from a thin fabric, such as rice paper, to which a candle or fuel cell is attached. When the fuel cell is lit, the resulting hot air which is trapped inside the lantern creates enough lift for the khom loi to float up in to the sky. In addition, people will also decorate their houses, gardens and temples with khom fai : intricately shaped paper lanterns which take on different forms. The most elaborate Yi Peng celebrations can be seen in Chiang Mai, the ancient capital of the former Lanna kingdom, where now both Loi Krathong and Yi Peng are celebrated at the same time resulting in lights floating on the waters, lights hanging from trees/buildings or standing on walls, and lights floating by in the sky."
I managed to figure out the date for this year's festival and booked my ticket, unfortunately many people booked for the wrong date as there are two this year and the later one is made up specifically for the tourists. You need to pay 100USD for the later one, while the first is free. We found Jack from the forum and got him to take us there.
Before the event, we had free food donated from the Buddhist temple. Then we bought a lantern, found a spot to sit and waited for the ceremony to begin. After the sun set, the monks strolled in on the red carpet, there were chantings and prayers before they finally lit the first khom loi and then helpers came around to light our candle holders. Then it was our turn! It was very nerve-wrecking as the lantern would easily get burnt if not done properly given the huge size. Fortunately, there were many Thai people around whom were very willingly to provide the extra help :)
We were sitting togeher with some Americans who came along with Jack. Emily was travelling alone so we shared her lantern as well as she couldn't possibly handle the lantern alone! The first time was exciting, my sister and I lit it with some help, but we were so nervous we let it go without making a wish! Then when you looked up the sky, here's the view we got.
It was magnificent, breathtaking, stunning! Everyone was speechless, admiring the sight! Touching!! I was so glad I came, I was there and I participated in it!
Then when we lit Emily's lantern, we were more ready this time. It nearly caught fire but thanks to the local, we saved it! We finally got it up, and before we let go, I screamed, "Make a wish!" We closed our eyes for a moment, and then I said, "Ready?" They all nodded and we released it! I shrieked and tears almost flowed down! It was so surreal and I would want to do this again (maybe at Taiwan's Pingxi Festival!!) or perhaps back here in Chiang Mai!
I was so restless I couldn't stop going around snapping pictures. Then I carelessly bumped into one of the blown out candle holders (used to light the lantern), and the hot wax got splashed over my shoulder and my face. I was still calm, but I told them I got burnt then they immediately doused me with plenty of water. I remembered I saw the First Aid booth while I was walking around, so I walked myself there. I wasn't in lot of pain, but my arm felt hot. My face was fine, phew. I had to remove my shirt to have the wet towels administered over my burns, fortunately that day I decided to wear something underneath! Seemed almost like this had been planned! There was a doctor on-site, and many others soon came in with similar burns. I was given a pain-killer after they managed to cool down my burns with the wet towels, and then a presciption so I could get medicine from a pharmacy.
Thanks to Jack and his wife, Ting, I managed to get to a pharmacy and Ting also kindly gave me some burn cream when we visited their stall at the Sunday Walking Market the following day. Blisters came up right away. So it's second degree burn. But fortunately it wasn't so bad that I needed to go to a hospital. It was only the 2nd day of my trip and I had so much planned!! I was so worried I got to cancel my elephant mahout training! This got to be one of the worst accidents I have since I travelled.
Despite the burn, I felt blessed enough that I pulled through the holiday smoothly. No infection. No burn on my face. No pain (not much that I can remember!). And right now, the new skin has already formed, it doesn't look like I will have any scar too. Thank you for looking after me!
11.11.11
First marathon. What a significant date for anything for the first time!
If you know me, you probably know that I am not a fan of running. I used to have running knee I called it, so painful that I couldn't even climb the stairs. Then after a series of pilates and self-care, I can hop and jump now. But I never was keen in running as a sports, even during my school days, I struggled to pass my NAFA test 2.4km. I still managed a silver just before I left school, but I think not anymore ;)
The company sent an email about a charity marathon - The Bull Charge. The route was fascinating - along Fullerton, Marina Bay Sands and Singapore Flyer. Don't you agree what a scenic running track! So I was tempted, even if I wasn't running, I could walk. I decided to join in the fun, with almost half the Singapore's office colleagues.
Here's a photo of our "uniform", the company decided to make us kilts so we would stand out from the other companies. (No photo of me in kilt here, of course!) It was a crazy turn-out, we had difficulties running in the first 1km as it was too packed to get pass most of the slow people. I did half walking and the other half running and managed to clock about 42 minutes, need to see the exact time when the results are out :P
If you ask me, I would not do a marathon again, unless its for charity again ;)
If you know me, you probably know that I am not a fan of running. I used to have running knee I called it, so painful that I couldn't even climb the stairs. Then after a series of pilates and self-care, I can hop and jump now. But I never was keen in running as a sports, even during my school days, I struggled to pass my NAFA test 2.4km. I still managed a silver just before I left school, but I think not anymore ;)
The company sent an email about a charity marathon - The Bull Charge. The route was fascinating - along Fullerton, Marina Bay Sands and Singapore Flyer. Don't you agree what a scenic running track! So I was tempted, even if I wasn't running, I could walk. I decided to join in the fun, with almost half the Singapore's office colleagues.
Here's a photo of our "uniform", the company decided to make us kilts so we would stand out from the other companies. (No photo of me in kilt here, of course!) It was a crazy turn-out, we had difficulties running in the first 1km as it was too packed to get pass most of the slow people. I did half walking and the other half running and managed to clock about 42 minutes, need to see the exact time when the results are out :P
If you ask me, I would not do a marathon again, unless its for charity again ;)
8.11.11
山楂之恋
I would never imagine myself being a big fan of painting nails. But right here, now I am. I used to think that it's a hassle and too difficult to do. I liked to keep my nails short and clean. Today ironically I am trying to keep them long, enjoying the painting (even painting for my mum) and even think it's theraupetic. I really think this phrase is true "Never say never" because some day you might just be so wrong!
I am in love with this color. There's no name or number, it's a brand from Thailand named Calar. I picked this up together with a few others (as below) in Chiang Mai in a tiny accessory shop. I will call it 山楂 or Hawthorn because it resembles the color of it, and is a color I had been looking for.
I am in love with this color. There's no name or number, it's a brand from Thailand named Calar. I picked this up together with a few others (as below) in Chiang Mai in a tiny accessory shop. I will call it 山楂 or Hawthorn because it resembles the color of it, and is a color I had been looking for.
Holiday pix up
Finally got around to putting two albums up, thanks to the long weekend. I am getting better at filtering photos, only 25% of the pictures are selected. So much more to do, to write about the holiday, to write reviews and I have not been writing my food reviews here as well. Horrible me. I hope I get more time, less brain cells killed at work and so more energy to accomplish more in the coming weeks.
Oh yes, the arm is healing! Pretty speedy. I'm already itching to peel it off.
Oh yes, the arm is healing! Pretty speedy. I'm already itching to peel it off.
4.11.11
The rose of the north - Chiang Mai
The checklist for Chiang Mai all ticked despite a minor accident during the holiday.
✔ Yi Peng Festival - thousands of lanterns being released
✔ Baan Chang Elephant Park - learnt to command, feed , bareback ride and bathe elephants
✔ Thai Cooking Class - cooked 3 dishes
✔ Eat Khao Soi - a northern Thailand cuisine
✔ Sunday walking market - walking in my poncho in the rain, eating at the street market, exhausting my legs
✔ Visit temples - Doi Suthep is magnificient
✔ Eat ice-cream @ iBerry!!!
✔ Eat enough Thai food - Phat thai, mango sticky rice, Tom yum, green curry...
All in all, a superb holiday except for a burn... I think scar can be quite sexy ;) Oh well, it's a souvenir from Chiang Mai. To be honest, I don't remember it being too painful, still thankful it was an easy journey after that, it's now drying up as I write.
p.s: I will fill up with the trip details later on.
✔ Yi Peng Festival - thousands of lanterns being released
✔ Baan Chang Elephant Park - learnt to command, feed , bareback ride and bathe elephants
✔ Thai Cooking Class - cooked 3 dishes
✔ Eat Khao Soi - a northern Thailand cuisine
✔ Sunday walking market - walking in my poncho in the rain, eating at the street market, exhausting my legs
✔ Visit temples - Doi Suthep is magnificient
✔ Eat ice-cream @ iBerry!!!
✔ Eat enough Thai food - Phat thai, mango sticky rice, Tom yum, green curry...
All in all, a superb holiday except for a burn... I think scar can be quite sexy ;) Oh well, it's a souvenir from Chiang Mai. To be honest, I don't remember it being too painful, still thankful it was an easy journey after that, it's now drying up as I write.
p.s: I will fill up with the trip details later on.
26.10.11
Travel easy
As I get older... my holidays are becoming less planned.
When I started out, I would fill each day to the brim... then slowly I decided to let go of some time to be "whatever that comes along"... and now I simply have nothing planned unless something is specifically happening on that day and I want to attend it. The rest is flexible. When I email about tour or visit, they would urge me to book because it would be "sold out" they claim. Isn't that always the case... I'm beginning to take it as a pinch of salt and have others as back up. Life should have options, right? :)
The parents are still worried. Their idea of Thailand is Bangkok. They do not understand the proximity, they do not know Chiang Mai to Bangkok is over an hour's flight. It's hard to convince them and it's harder to leave. Guess we need to make a call home. How do the parents in the western countries whom make their kids at 18 move out understand this, I wonder?
p.s: The holiday - It's tomorrow!
When I started out, I would fill each day to the brim... then slowly I decided to let go of some time to be "whatever that comes along"... and now I simply have nothing planned unless something is specifically happening on that day and I want to attend it. The rest is flexible. When I email about tour or visit, they would urge me to book because it would be "sold out" they claim. Isn't that always the case... I'm beginning to take it as a pinch of salt and have others as back up. Life should have options, right? :)
The parents are still worried. Their idea of Thailand is Bangkok. They do not understand the proximity, they do not know Chiang Mai to Bangkok is over an hour's flight. It's hard to convince them and it's harder to leave. Guess we need to make a call home. How do the parents in the western countries whom make their kids at 18 move out understand this, I wonder?
p.s: The holiday - It's tomorrow!
23.10.11
Celebrations of life
Today I attended two celebrations of life. One totally opposite of the other. While one celebrates the birth of a child, the other celebrates the end of journey for another.
I feel so tired now, it's tough to be feeling so happy in the day and then swing to the extreme end in the evening. It aches to see a friend being so upset, and then us being helpless. I would never be able to put myself in her shoes, to know that feeling of losing your child, your own blood and flesh. The monster, cancer, is ruthless. I have lost cousin, auntie and uncle all to cancer... and once again, it hits someone again. I hate this thing called illness, if life invents such things, they should give us cures. If there's a will, there's a way, but it seems like there's none in this case. The little Char has fought so hard for her life, yet you never gave her another chance? I hope she's at peace now, no longer suffering. It was more painful to see her living on oxygen tank and bleeding from the tumours.
I feel so tired now, it's tough to be feeling so happy in the day and then swing to the extreme end in the evening. It aches to see a friend being so upset, and then us being helpless. I would never be able to put myself in her shoes, to know that feeling of losing your child, your own blood and flesh. The monster, cancer, is ruthless. I have lost cousin, auntie and uncle all to cancer... and once again, it hits someone again. I hate this thing called illness, if life invents such things, they should give us cures. If there's a will, there's a way, but it seems like there's none in this case. The little Char has fought so hard for her life, yet you never gave her another chance? I hope she's at peace now, no longer suffering. It was more painful to see her living on oxygen tank and bleeding from the tumours.
21.10.11
Thanks bugger
Some bugger decided to establish friendship with all my contacts today... Even my blog is a victim, as it sent an email that automatically created a post here - deleted now.
My hotmail account has been compromised. I hope all my friends are smart enough not to open it. But I have a stupid sister, LOL. I can't believe she clicked on the link, no wonder her computer always goes bonkers, because she clicks on every single stupid thing people send her. It's not entirely a bad thing, so it made me change my password which I haven't for probably 14 years?? It went around saying hello to my friends and reported which emails are not working because they got bounced. Then it also made some of my friends replied or sent me a SMS asking me what I sent them! Busy day huh.
My hotmail account has been compromised. I hope all my friends are smart enough not to open it. But I have a stupid sister, LOL. I can't believe she clicked on the link, no wonder her computer always goes bonkers, because she clicks on every single stupid thing people send her. It's not entirely a bad thing, so it made me change my password which I haven't for probably 14 years?? It went around saying hello to my friends and reported which emails are not working because they got bounced. Then it also made some of my friends replied or sent me a SMS asking me what I sent them! Busy day huh.
19.10.11
A whole new chapter
Suddenly, I decided to wipe it all off and have a fresh start. Yes, my blog.
I have recently reached a new phase of my life and decided this blog should do the same too. New color. New title. New background. New template. New font. New image. The content remains, as I do want to leave a trail and look back later.
So how do you like this? :)
I have recently reached a new phase of my life and decided this blog should do the same too. New color. New title. New background. New template. New font. New image. The content remains, as I do want to leave a trail and look back later.
So how do you like this? :)
7 more days...
The map is snapped from Thailand Tourism website today. Seems like the waters have left the north and seriously hitting the central and south. I hope Bangkok is shielded from the floods.
I also happened to be reading Chiang Mail Mail and know of this festival - Thailand International Balloon Festival. It's taking place on November 25 - 27... I was even thinking of going there for a second time if I really enjoy it till I remember there's a wedding dinner on the 26!!! Shucks.
Oh well, maybe next year??? :)
I have read and heard many wonderful things about the city and am pretty sure it would be a very pleasant trip minus the rain! It's also coming winter for them and the weather would be slightly over or under 20°.... YAY I love such temperature!
17.10.11
Crackling nails
Shimmering tomato red, topped with Nubar V-men matte coat and then China Glaze silver crackle.
Stop the water!
Thailand is badly flooded... but I still want to go to Chiang Mai. Nothing has changed my mind yet unless the flights are cancelled due to the travel warnings. Fingers crossed that things will get better in a week's time!
16.10.11
Aww...
My heart is feeling warm and snugly...
These weeks I have caught up and spoken to many friends I don't often see. I have also talked to my (about there!!) 10 years old online friend, from my yahoo/ICQ days. Geez, from the time he worked in Singapore to now a married man with 2 kids, moved to Australia then now Hong Kong. Amazing thing, internet is. A long email from someone I drew inspiration from. I do like getting written to, I wrote a lot to others but not as much these days. It's so difficult to find people who can maintain an ongoing email conversation these days. I met quite a few since the internet era started... but to be honest, very very few or almost none lasted. It would be a great few years, sometimes even with people I never gotten to meet, but it's fine. An online friendship is sometimes supposed to be kept at that. Also my dear friend called from the UK, thanks to the free app we get on the phones these day!! I haven't spoken to her for ages and it was great laughing and chatting like the olden days :) I used to pay so much to get calling cards to call to Germany... if only the technology was this advanced.
Talking to people keeps me sane.
These weeks I have caught up and spoken to many friends I don't often see. I have also talked to my (about there!!) 10 years old online friend, from my yahoo/ICQ days. Geez, from the time he worked in Singapore to now a married man with 2 kids, moved to Australia then now Hong Kong. Amazing thing, internet is. A long email from someone I drew inspiration from. I do like getting written to, I wrote a lot to others but not as much these days. It's so difficult to find people who can maintain an ongoing email conversation these days. I met quite a few since the internet era started... but to be honest, very very few or almost none lasted. It would be a great few years, sometimes even with people I never gotten to meet, but it's fine. An online friendship is sometimes supposed to be kept at that. Also my dear friend called from the UK, thanks to the free app we get on the phones these day!! I haven't spoken to her for ages and it was great laughing and chatting like the olden days :) I used to pay so much to get calling cards to call to Germany... if only the technology was this advanced.
Talking to people keeps me sane.
15.10.11
Omamori
Omamori are Japanese amulets... and I have just received the third one as a gift. I just wiki-ed it and realised its said it should be replaced once a year and the old ones should be returned to the temple. How am I going to send them back?? I guess I would retire them in a box.
When one of my good friends was flying, she brought me back one. One that would bless me in getting my wishes fulfilled. It's bigger than the others I have, with chinese characters sewn on it. Then when another friend of friend living in Japan first got back to Singapore, he gave me another, pink with a goat sewn on it and a tiny golden bell. I had no idea why I was the receipient as we weren't that close but he said he felt that I was the right person to have it. I guess it was wrong because somehow it lost me shortly. I was devastated as it was a gift and exceptionally cute. That one was meant for love, and it probably wasn't meant to be.
Last year during my trip to Taiwan, I also got myself one (similar to the Omamori) from a Chinese temple in Tainan. It's not free, you have to buy it from the counter and have it blessed in the temple by circling it around the pot of joss sticks. I don't know what it was specifically meant for, but most of them are used to ward off bad luck, so I guess no harm getting one!
Few days ago, I met my ex-colleague, a feisty young lady. I was surprised when she passed one to me, because friends whom seem to go Japan would just get that for me. This one also had chinese characters sewn on it, pink with a tiny bell and in a petite size. It's also meant for love :) Well, let's see if this works, I have to keep it well this time.
I also received this box of Original Tokyo Banana. Many thanks to Cheryl. I tried the chocolate version which is delicious but it seems like its no longer in production now. They now have the caramel version which I am not a big fan of. I still prefer the chocolate one. They are very similar, banana shaped cake with banana cream (made from real banana). Give it a try when you're in Japan!
When one of my good friends was flying, she brought me back one. One that would bless me in getting my wishes fulfilled. It's bigger than the others I have, with chinese characters sewn on it. Then when another friend of friend living in Japan first got back to Singapore, he gave me another, pink with a goat sewn on it and a tiny golden bell. I had no idea why I was the receipient as we weren't that close but he said he felt that I was the right person to have it. I guess it was wrong because somehow it lost me shortly. I was devastated as it was a gift and exceptionally cute. That one was meant for love, and it probably wasn't meant to be.
Last year during my trip to Taiwan, I also got myself one (similar to the Omamori) from a Chinese temple in Tainan. It's not free, you have to buy it from the counter and have it blessed in the temple by circling it around the pot of joss sticks. I don't know what it was specifically meant for, but most of them are used to ward off bad luck, so I guess no harm getting one!
Few days ago, I met my ex-colleague, a feisty young lady. I was surprised when she passed one to me, because friends whom seem to go Japan would just get that for me. This one also had chinese characters sewn on it, pink with a tiny bell and in a petite size. It's also meant for love :) Well, let's see if this works, I have to keep it well this time.
 |
| Original Tokyo Banana with Omamori |
I also received this box of Original Tokyo Banana. Many thanks to Cheryl. I tried the chocolate version which is delicious but it seems like its no longer in production now. They now have the caramel version which I am not a big fan of. I still prefer the chocolate one. They are very similar, banana shaped cake with banana cream (made from real banana). Give it a try when you're in Japan!
Is NO in your dictionary?
Thanks Yus for steering me back to the right track. I admit that my recent posts aren't probably the easiest to digest, probably due to the surroundings I'm living in. I just want to write one more ranting entry.
I really don't understand why I have such people around me... I'm normally pretty tolerant but too much is over the board. Is it hard to say NO? If yes, learn to say it because even a kid can say that. I sometimes prefer talking to my male friends because they are less wishy washy, more straight to the point.
Let me cite you some of the most ridiculous or very selfish examples:
"I can't hang out late tonight, because it's the hungry ghost festival right now." -- seriously will the ghost eat you up?
"Can we meet here because it's easy FOR ME to go home later?"
"Can we meet that day because everyone else is not free FOR ME that day?"
"I can't go out because my mum is asking me to do this... blah"
It is sometimes valid to say that, if someone else is not free for you, it is OK to arrange it with another person. But sometimes agreeing to someone and later coming up with stupid excuses is too much. Don't agree, if you don't have the intention to keep your words! Worse - if you always think you have a valid excuse and you're not in the wrong.
Would you die just admitting?
"Hey, that's a bit far for me!"
"I am lazy to go."
"I'm not in the socializing mood to hang out."
"I am busy."
Very simple, no?
If you know I'm talking about you, take note that honesty works with me. I will NOT cry just because you can't go, I'm asking you because I do feel like you would be a great company. If not, no big deal, and it pisses me off with your RUBBISH excuses.
I really don't understand why I have such people around me... I'm normally pretty tolerant but too much is over the board. Is it hard to say NO? If yes, learn to say it because even a kid can say that. I sometimes prefer talking to my male friends because they are less wishy washy, more straight to the point.
Let me cite you some of the most ridiculous or very selfish examples:
"I can't hang out late tonight, because it's the hungry ghost festival right now." -- seriously will the ghost eat you up?
"Can we meet here because it's easy FOR ME to go home later?"
"Can we meet that day because everyone else is not free FOR ME that day?"
"I can't go out because my mum is asking me to do this... blah"
It is sometimes valid to say that, if someone else is not free for you, it is OK to arrange it with another person. But sometimes agreeing to someone and later coming up with stupid excuses is too much. Don't agree, if you don't have the intention to keep your words! Worse - if you always think you have a valid excuse and you're not in the wrong.
Would you die just admitting?
"Hey, that's a bit far for me!"
"I am lazy to go."
"I'm not in the socializing mood to hang out."
"I am busy."
Very simple, no?
If you know I'm talking about you, take note that honesty works with me. I will NOT cry just because you can't go, I'm asking you because I do feel like you would be a great company. If not, no big deal, and it pisses me off with your RUBBISH excuses.
12.10.11
Brrr.rrr.. make my toes glow!
I bought this during my birthday and decided to try it out. China Glaze's It's Alive on my toes. I also added the Ghoulish Glow that didn't seem to do anything :( No glowing toe nails!!! But I do like the green glitter, not a glitter fan nor fan of green color usually. I also love the Ruby Pumps. the red glitter a lot.
Now now, that gives me an idea.. what a nice combination for Christmas!
30 years and 5 days old
My blues have gone hiding. Social life seems to peak. Suddenly old things resurfaced, the good and the bad things, the things I do not wish to see, the people I dread of seeing... it all came back. All at once. I'm slightly overwhelmed tonight. I was bored at work, routine has kicked in and sometimes I'm asking myself, "How much longer?" How much longer to stay in an office job...? Is it my kind of life? Perhaps I just need a holiday. Then I will settle back in, enjoy Christmas, welcome a new year and then begin to detest routine setting in once more. I have to endure, I have a trip to America next year and it's going to need a lot of cash! Situations. Why do situations always set a limit to our happiness and freedom?
7.10.11
The day is today
I thought it would be easy to embrace it... but it's not.
I am feeling the blues. I am feeling that age is not just a number. I am wondering at 30, what kind of life I want to lead in near future... Suddenly, I am not very pleased with what I was contented with. Is this an age thing or I haven't truly found what I wanted.
My job is starting to bore me especially when I feel that I am short changed by my colleagues in the UK. Why am I always helping them and no one's helping to cover my tasks? Why am I always thrown all the shit work they do not want to handle, even if its just a very simple request and require not much effort? Why am I always finishing my tasks so soon and theirs stay in there for days, even weeks when it doesn't take hours to do. Why do I always need to write emails like I'm writing to dummies? If they do not hire people with common sense, then why hire them? I stood up for myself yesterday when they threw me two more tasks, and so they took it back. They obviously could handle it. Do they think we "Asians" are more diligent and can take more "shit" without voicing out? I am not swallowing that.
Suddenly being 30, I see myself asking myself what I really want to do. I want to be doing something I enjoy, not being promised whatever that can't be met. I envision an ideal life. I see options and I see ways out to getting what I want, and this is the beginning.
So many people I know are not happy but instead of doing something, they remain stuck, give excuses and only complain. Is this a Singaporean mentality? If yes, very sadly, we're not going to achieve what we want. I visited Charmaine and Cyn last night, and the things Cyn shared hit me hard. Singaporeans are brought up in such a ruled and restricted environment, no one was taught how to use common sense, empathy, flexibility and doing something out of the way for others. I suspect it's not just a Singaporean thing, the later generation do lack the same things. I feel for her as she described the struggling experience with the medical staff here, I feel for myself and everyone else who feel the pain.
So... today is the day I shall set myself new goals and do something to achieve them.
I am feeling the blues. I am feeling that age is not just a number. I am wondering at 30, what kind of life I want to lead in near future... Suddenly, I am not very pleased with what I was contented with. Is this an age thing or I haven't truly found what I wanted.
My job is starting to bore me especially when I feel that I am short changed by my colleagues in the UK. Why am I always helping them and no one's helping to cover my tasks? Why am I always thrown all the shit work they do not want to handle, even if its just a very simple request and require not much effort? Why am I always finishing my tasks so soon and theirs stay in there for days, even weeks when it doesn't take hours to do. Why do I always need to write emails like I'm writing to dummies? If they do not hire people with common sense, then why hire them? I stood up for myself yesterday when they threw me two more tasks, and so they took it back. They obviously could handle it. Do they think we "Asians" are more diligent and can take more "shit" without voicing out? I am not swallowing that.
Suddenly being 30, I see myself asking myself what I really want to do. I want to be doing something I enjoy, not being promised whatever that can't be met. I envision an ideal life. I see options and I see ways out to getting what I want, and this is the beginning.
So many people I know are not happy but instead of doing something, they remain stuck, give excuses and only complain. Is this a Singaporean mentality? If yes, very sadly, we're not going to achieve what we want. I visited Charmaine and Cyn last night, and the things Cyn shared hit me hard. Singaporeans are brought up in such a ruled and restricted environment, no one was taught how to use common sense, empathy, flexibility and doing something out of the way for others. I suspect it's not just a Singaporean thing, the later generation do lack the same things. I feel for her as she described the struggling experience with the medical staff here, I feel for myself and everyone else who feel the pain.
So... today is the day I shall set myself new goals and do something to achieve them.
5.10.11
Red like ruby
How I love it! Glittery red is the way to go! I almost couldn't bear to take them off till they chipped quite badly... Very nice, I think I found my color ;)
 |
| China Glaze Ruby Pumps! |
4.10.11
I don't wanna say goodbye...
The night was cold and the day is freezing.
As I read one of my friends' blog, my heart sank. She was told to bring her daughter home to say goodbye, little Charmaine has been fighting neuroblastoma for approximately 3 years (corrected). All these time, she remained high spirited and chirpy, which probably kept the monster at bay. But the doctors have seemed to do whatever was possible, she had been to China and New York for clinical trials, her mum has fought to get drugs available here. It is sad to know this day still has to come.
I am sure she knows she has been a strong warrior, I am sure she feels the love her family and strangers has showered her, I am sure she has never given up hope on growing up...
If you happen to read this, say a little prayer for her. No matter how small, I hope the little girl has more time in this world.
As I read one of my friends' blog, my heart sank. She was told to bring her daughter home to say goodbye, little Charmaine has been fighting neuroblastoma for approximately 3 years (corrected). All these time, she remained high spirited and chirpy, which probably kept the monster at bay. But the doctors have seemed to do whatever was possible, she had been to China and New York for clinical trials, her mum has fought to get drugs available here. It is sad to know this day still has to come.
I am sure she knows she has been a strong warrior, I am sure she feels the love her family and strangers has showered her, I am sure she has never given up hope on growing up...
If you happen to read this, say a little prayer for her. No matter how small, I hope the little girl has more time in this world.
3.10.11
I want some Thai-some-ness
Lots of people have been visiting Chiang Mai lately... 2 friends and the parents of a friend. It seems like I'm always going with the crowd. When I last went to Taiwan, whole lots of people I met went too.
I'm going specifically to Yi Peng this year, to see the lanterns floating into the sky. That must be surreal! Whereas in Bangkok. they celebrate the same festival (Loy Krathong) by setting off lights on the river. I have not planned anything really except getting the accomodation and flight booked. It is time to look at how to get to the festival, what to do over the 6 days... One of my friends did the Thai cooking school, that might be an idea... but I'm more tempted to do a day at the Elephant Park where they guide you to take care of an elephant. People tell me it's smelly and dirty, and do not understand why I want to do that. I just want to experience it, to be close to animals, to nature... to know how simple life can be. Isn't that how life was in the beginning...!
I saw the pictures from my friends' trips, and I can be sure that the night market's going to keep me real busy. I should bring a book there, sit at a cafe, daydream or read. That'd be awesome :)
I'm going specifically to Yi Peng this year, to see the lanterns floating into the sky. That must be surreal! Whereas in Bangkok. they celebrate the same festival (Loy Krathong) by setting off lights on the river. I have not planned anything really except getting the accomodation and flight booked. It is time to look at how to get to the festival, what to do over the 6 days... One of my friends did the Thai cooking school, that might be an idea... but I'm more tempted to do a day at the Elephant Park where they guide you to take care of an elephant. People tell me it's smelly and dirty, and do not understand why I want to do that. I just want to experience it, to be close to animals, to nature... to know how simple life can be. Isn't that how life was in the beginning...!
I saw the pictures from my friends' trips, and I can be sure that the night market's going to keep me real busy. I should bring a book there, sit at a cafe, daydream or read. That'd be awesome :)
 |
| An ice cream cafe, iBerry, found by the friend who went! |
Turning 30 in 95 hours
How many times should you celebrate a birthday? Maybe for a major event like this one, I guess nothing is considered far too many?! One of my friends had a month long celebration, while some had it for a week! I am not holding a big party, in fact, all the celebration are small intimate dinners. I prefer the quality time and conversation than making a lot of noise, getting drunk and having to entertain everyone. I guess this is the type of celebration we are gearing towards as we age... gracefully ;)
I can't count how many dinners I have had, as they all seemed too good and it felt like I was already celebrating since September together with my friend's 30th. One thing I do know is I am not working on my birthday! I don't really take off day usually for birthday but somehow I got persuaded to and I decided,"Yeay, no stress, no work and no seeing someone I don't enjoy working much with!" My pocket has been burning with the ongoing dinners, an upcoming holiday, a little shopping and also soon baby showers and wedding dinner. Ah well, hopefully the hole gets mended after all these events, which is probably then Christmas time... it doesn't sound like it's going to be time for saving in the coming months.
The letter that notifies me to change my identity card has arrived. Boy, oh boy, that card with a 12 year old photo of me, it ought to be changed! A week ago, I rewarded myself a new hairstyle and hair color, not entirely pleased with it as it's a similar cut as before. Perhaps I should do a major revamp? If that day comes, it will be a major revamp to my entire life. Now that sounds exciting!
4 more days to officially hitting the 3-0. 3 more weeks to soaking in another different culture, eating new food, seeing new places and talking to strangers. And maybe I should pick up a new sports or class too! New experience keeps me sane... I'm borned with a gene that defy routine, if there's such a thing?
I can't count how many dinners I have had, as they all seemed too good and it felt like I was already celebrating since September together with my friend's 30th. One thing I do know is I am not working on my birthday! I don't really take off day usually for birthday but somehow I got persuaded to and I decided,"Yeay, no stress, no work and no seeing someone I don't enjoy working much with!" My pocket has been burning with the ongoing dinners, an upcoming holiday, a little shopping and also soon baby showers and wedding dinner. Ah well, hopefully the hole gets mended after all these events, which is probably then Christmas time... it doesn't sound like it's going to be time for saving in the coming months.
The letter that notifies me to change my identity card has arrived. Boy, oh boy, that card with a 12 year old photo of me, it ought to be changed! A week ago, I rewarded myself a new hairstyle and hair color, not entirely pleased with it as it's a similar cut as before. Perhaps I should do a major revamp? If that day comes, it will be a major revamp to my entire life. Now that sounds exciting!
4 more days to officially hitting the 3-0. 3 more weeks to soaking in another different culture, eating new food, seeing new places and talking to strangers. And maybe I should pick up a new sports or class too! New experience keeps me sane... I'm borned with a gene that defy routine, if there's such a thing?
22.9.11
No to nonsense
I feel powerful enough (or perhaps in control is a better word) to not take nonsense anymore. Has it got to do with age? I'm getting wiser and tougher, am I not!
I recently received very unflattering (well, I find them unflattering) comments from a friend. Instead of rectifying things, he made it worse. So I asked for an apology or he gets off my list. When I say things, I MEAN THEM! So off he goes. Some people really think I'm a softie because I don't look I am MEAN enough. So try it.
The recent Monday morning, my sister suddenly went crazy and vented her anger on a stool during breakfast. Then we reprimanded her and got swore back at. It fumed me, we never did anything to provoke her, yet she always vent her work frustration at home. She's an annoying b!tch and I really wonder why we are borned in the same family. I took up the stool and I swore I could have throw that in her face. That ruined the start of my week but it soon got to the back of my mind. I haven't been talking to her since Monday but she's trying to make peace now. I seriously can't be bothered because I don't know when's her next outburst. So let's see how well we do in Chiang Mai, it's a bit of a risk to do a trip with her honestly. The last Hong Kong trip is already hell at times.
Why is it always my friends are taking me for granted??? Say NO to being nice, say NO to yes. But I am not tolerating all the sh!t now. Do it with tact or get the F out of my life. One of my close friends (I don't feel that close anymore) always talk to me as if she's commanding me. She will text me "Call me" whenever she's back. The thing is she can call me, right? I don't mind but I just don't like the way she says it. Can't she be more polite? When she talks to me on the phone or MSN, she screams (yea, try imagining it on MSN). IT IS ANNOYING. So finally today, I replied her, if she can't ask me nicely to ring her, then she should be the one calling! So fine, she's pissed, but she needs to know that's what she deserves to get as a reply.
I recently received very unflattering (well, I find them unflattering) comments from a friend. Instead of rectifying things, he made it worse. So I asked for an apology or he gets off my list. When I say things, I MEAN THEM! So off he goes. Some people really think I'm a softie because I don't look I am MEAN enough. So try it.
The recent Monday morning, my sister suddenly went crazy and vented her anger on a stool during breakfast. Then we reprimanded her and got swore back at. It fumed me, we never did anything to provoke her, yet she always vent her work frustration at home. She's an annoying b!tch and I really wonder why we are borned in the same family. I took up the stool and I swore I could have throw that in her face. That ruined the start of my week but it soon got to the back of my mind. I haven't been talking to her since Monday but she's trying to make peace now. I seriously can't be bothered because I don't know when's her next outburst. So let's see how well we do in Chiang Mai, it's a bit of a risk to do a trip with her honestly. The last Hong Kong trip is already hell at times.
Why is it always my friends are taking me for granted??? Say NO to being nice, say NO to yes. But I am not tolerating all the sh!t now. Do it with tact or get the F out of my life. One of my close friends (I don't feel that close anymore) always talk to me as if she's commanding me. She will text me "Call me" whenever she's back. The thing is she can call me, right? I don't mind but I just don't like the way she says it. Can't she be more polite? When she talks to me on the phone or MSN, she screams (yea, try imagining it on MSN). IT IS ANNOYING. So finally today, I replied her, if she can't ask me nicely to ring her, then she should be the one calling! So fine, she's pissed, but she needs to know that's what she deserves to get as a reply.
21.9.11
It used to be a nuisance...
but now nails painting can actually be quite theraupetic!
 |
| My latest spot - Essie's Petal Pink |
 |
| Last week - Skinfood Pedicure Glittery Navy Blue |
 |
| My current feet - China Glaze's For Audrey |
Smartest idea ;)
Why won't they sell ice cream at half price on rainy days???
Well, isn't it so, what's the possibility of anyone getting it during such cold weather???
I would buy it if it's half the price! Anyhow, I had the passion fruit gelato earlier, it was drizzling, at least better than the cold evening the day before. So sour, so to my liking!!
(This reminds me how Giordano sells umbrellas at half price on rainy days!)
Well, isn't it so, what's the possibility of anyone getting it during such cold weather???
I would buy it if it's half the price! Anyhow, I had the passion fruit gelato earlier, it was drizzling, at least better than the cold evening the day before. So sour, so to my liking!!
(This reminds me how Giordano sells umbrellas at half price on rainy days!)
16.9.11
Randomness XIX
The other night, someone's legs caught my eyes. They glittered at night. As she walked closer, I realised they were wrapped in plastic wrap, it must be some slimming treatment. I wonder if she knows they are probably a bit attention seeking.
It has been one year!!! Someone I thought I liked a year ago has now diminished, and sometimes I even forget what he's called. Geez, memory ;) I am glad somehow, you know, things reveal themselves with time, and you sometimes see it's a blessing in disguise.
After 3 years of loss of appetite in the dating game... Recently, things have changed. It was a good rest; I learnt many things about myself in the process, found my happiness and confidence without the need of assurance from anyone, especially men. I can safely say, they still do stir my emotions but I can better control them and also kick the asses aside. Why tolerate men whom do not respect you, they do not deserve us!
A big campaign at work is just over. The people I work closely with recently have became quite anal, always making things difficult and wasting time. Someone is testing my patience again. I need to 打小人。 I found this and it's pretty amusing. Thanks to my team members, they made my life much easier. But there's something I don't understand, why do we always need to be tactful and make them happy when they are wrong??? Just reject them, say "NO"... Is it British culture to be tactful even when its not time to be!? Geez, if so, that surely needs a change. Learn from the Chinese, swear at them!! LOL.
I finally caught up with the friend who treated me like her spouse! Remember the one I was talking about, I almost cut off ties with her. Someone inspired me, she/he said we shouldn't let small things ruin a true friendship. I'm not sure if I can call these small but anyhow I wasn't really bothered to be honest. Things always take two hands to clap, if she's willing to change her attitude, I should give her a chance? I still never felt things have changed, I think its all in her mind.
When I get older, I tend to try things I didn't use to like again. I went to KBox, I never like singing and still don't, but things are fun when you do it with friends. I used to hate earth colors but my clothes, shoes and nails are turning brown... So give it a go, you never know, you might just like something you used to detest.
I'm once again back listening to UK Radio and they still make me giggle. Oh boy, how I miss the English accent!
It has been one year!!! Someone I thought I liked a year ago has now diminished, and sometimes I even forget what he's called. Geez, memory ;) I am glad somehow, you know, things reveal themselves with time, and you sometimes see it's a blessing in disguise.
After 3 years of loss of appetite in the dating game... Recently, things have changed. It was a good rest; I learnt many things about myself in the process, found my happiness and confidence without the need of assurance from anyone, especially men. I can safely say, they still do stir my emotions but I can better control them and also kick the asses aside. Why tolerate men whom do not respect you, they do not deserve us!
A big campaign at work is just over. The people I work closely with recently have became quite anal, always making things difficult and wasting time. Someone is testing my patience again. I need to 打小人。 I found this and it's pretty amusing. Thanks to my team members, they made my life much easier. But there's something I don't understand, why do we always need to be tactful and make them happy when they are wrong??? Just reject them, say "NO"... Is it British culture to be tactful even when its not time to be!? Geez, if so, that surely needs a change. Learn from the Chinese, swear at them!! LOL.
I finally caught up with the friend who treated me like her spouse! Remember the one I was talking about, I almost cut off ties with her. Someone inspired me, she/he said we shouldn't let small things ruin a true friendship. I'm not sure if I can call these small but anyhow I wasn't really bothered to be honest. Things always take two hands to clap, if she's willing to change her attitude, I should give her a chance? I still never felt things have changed, I think its all in her mind.
When I get older, I tend to try things I didn't use to like again. I went to KBox, I never like singing and still don't, but things are fun when you do it with friends. I used to hate earth colors but my clothes, shoes and nails are turning brown... So give it a go, you never know, you might just like something you used to detest.
I'm once again back listening to UK Radio and they still make me giggle. Oh boy, how I miss the English accent!
12.9.11
Turning 30 in 38623 minutes
As I write this, most of my closest friends have turned 30... I am almost the last. And I thought I'd like to re-live my memories as I count the days to the new phase of my life.
I have loved and hated.
I have almost drowned, crashed and died.
I have forgiven and forgotten.
I have severed ties and also rekindled them.
I have let go of toxic relationships.
I have learnt to cherish,
I have found hope and lost it once again.
I have survived my darkest days.
I have found myself, and continue to discover more.
I have lied, cheated and been dishonest.
I have done good to reap karma.
I have travelled alone, with friends or family.
I have been loved.
I have friends I thank God for.
I have had great bosses and also shitty ones.
I have people whom came into my life as my guardian angels or bad asses, both I learnt many things from.
I have learnt and never stop learning.
I have done myself proud, my parents proud and occasionally those whom I meant something to.
I have had days I was ashamed, disgraced or humiliated.
I have done things I regretted, and hopefully not anymore.
I have succeeded and failed.
I have my courageous days and times I just want to shrink my head back in the shell.
I have been lucky, and also many times unlucky.
I have many fond memories of those dear to my heart but whom have left.
I have many unanswered wishes and endless faith.
I think I could go on and on.... I have no idea why I am writing this, but suddenly it just came to me. I want to share with you guys that life is all about balance. There's always good and bad, there's always up and down. We can pick ourselves up if you want to, we can always see the positive side of things if you want to. There's a lot of things within our control if you want to take control of it. That includes saving our planet. There's no doubt there are bad times, there's also no doubt there are people whom want to make others' lives miserable. We can find happiness within ourselves, and we don't need it to come from others, to reassure us. I hope all of you find contentment in the simple things in life, because in fact we do not need much to be happy.
I have loved and hated.
I have almost drowned, crashed and died.
I have forgiven and forgotten.
I have severed ties and also rekindled them.
I have let go of toxic relationships.
I have learnt to cherish,
I have found hope and lost it once again.
I have survived my darkest days.
I have found myself, and continue to discover more.
I have lied, cheated and been dishonest.
I have done good to reap karma.
I have travelled alone, with friends or family.
I have been loved.
I have friends I thank God for.
I have had great bosses and also shitty ones.
I have people whom came into my life as my guardian angels or bad asses, both I learnt many things from.
I have learnt and never stop learning.
I have done myself proud, my parents proud and occasionally those whom I meant something to.
I have had days I was ashamed, disgraced or humiliated.
I have done things I regretted, and hopefully not anymore.
I have succeeded and failed.
I have my courageous days and times I just want to shrink my head back in the shell.
I have been lucky, and also many times unlucky.
I have many fond memories of those dear to my heart but whom have left.
I have many unanswered wishes and endless faith.
I think I could go on and on.... I have no idea why I am writing this, but suddenly it just came to me. I want to share with you guys that life is all about balance. There's always good and bad, there's always up and down. We can pick ourselves up if you want to, we can always see the positive side of things if you want to. There's a lot of things within our control if you want to take control of it. That includes saving our planet. There's no doubt there are bad times, there's also no doubt there are people whom want to make others' lives miserable. We can find happiness within ourselves, and we don't need it to come from others, to reassure us. I hope all of you find contentment in the simple things in life, because in fact we do not need much to be happy.
5.9.11
It's time to decide... uugghhh
I have a problem.
I am a neurotic perfectionist with obsessive-compulsive disorder. Well this is not scientifically proven, but again it's my anxiety at work. I hate having to make a decision, like a final one out of so many choices. Too many choices is NOT a good thing, it makes me anxious, stressed and forces the perfectionism in me to surface. Read this article. You will agree that sometimes less is more. When you have less choices, it's very easy to filter, and you would reach a decision in a much shorter time. Do you sometimes shopped for hours and ended up with nothing? I do - quite a couple of times, at a book sale, mega sale, bookstore or even for clothings. I just gave up choosing.
Consumerism gives us far too many choices... When you want to buy something, how do you decide on a brand? Hearsay, reviews or advertising? Advertising is the perfect example of marketing gimmicks. You make something look good so people buy it. Some people hate the TV because they feel advertising is bullsh*t, the TV programmes distort people's perception of things and the fairy tales idealize life. Don't you agree, they make you believe in love at first sight, or the hero always win ultimately and the bad people always have retribution? And do these happen in real life? Sometimes they do, only sometimes.
A good example is I recently booked my hotel for Chiang Mai. Initially even before I got my flight, I had in mind just 2 places I really would like to stay. One is very affordable while the other is not. I had set my mind on dividing time between the two, but realised later the hassle might not be worth it. Then when I began a search, there are over 200 choices on Agoda, and I believe even more when there are those whom do not have online presence. I then shortlisted my favourites (forgotten about my initial choices) but as time went by, the popular ones got fully booked and I just had to make a decision quick. I detest it. I hate doing something under pressure. But I booked it, one of my preferred choices but not the ideal. Then I became obsessed about my decision. "Did I make the right choice?" "What if I found somewhere even better and cheaper?" "What if the reviews aren't true?" So many unnecessary question marks in my head. I had a urge to look again even though I had already paid for my booking. I'm insane. Tell me, am I not? One should learn to let go, "Just let it go... and accept it", I remind myself. It might not be what someone else has described in their review but it will be my own experience and I can make it just as good as I would like it!
To end this off, I want to share with you a wise quote from the above site - "The freedom to make choices brings the responsibility to live with the consequences." (copyrighted to Psychology Today)
And now I shall wash my hands off it, force my brain to shut off and look forward to the holiday in October~
I am a neurotic perfectionist with obsessive-compulsive disorder. Well this is not scientifically proven, but again it's my anxiety at work. I hate having to make a decision, like a final one out of so many choices. Too many choices is NOT a good thing, it makes me anxious, stressed and forces the perfectionism in me to surface. Read this article. You will agree that sometimes less is more. When you have less choices, it's very easy to filter, and you would reach a decision in a much shorter time. Do you sometimes shopped for hours and ended up with nothing? I do - quite a couple of times, at a book sale, mega sale, bookstore or even for clothings. I just gave up choosing.
Consumerism gives us far too many choices... When you want to buy something, how do you decide on a brand? Hearsay, reviews or advertising? Advertising is the perfect example of marketing gimmicks. You make something look good so people buy it. Some people hate the TV because they feel advertising is bullsh*t, the TV programmes distort people's perception of things and the fairy tales idealize life. Don't you agree, they make you believe in love at first sight, or the hero always win ultimately and the bad people always have retribution? And do these happen in real life? Sometimes they do, only sometimes.
A good example is I recently booked my hotel for Chiang Mai. Initially even before I got my flight, I had in mind just 2 places I really would like to stay. One is very affordable while the other is not. I had set my mind on dividing time between the two, but realised later the hassle might not be worth it. Then when I began a search, there are over 200 choices on Agoda, and I believe even more when there are those whom do not have online presence. I then shortlisted my favourites (forgotten about my initial choices) but as time went by, the popular ones got fully booked and I just had to make a decision quick. I detest it. I hate doing something under pressure. But I booked it, one of my preferred choices but not the ideal. Then I became obsessed about my decision. "Did I make the right choice?" "What if I found somewhere even better and cheaper?" "What if the reviews aren't true?" So many unnecessary question marks in my head. I had a urge to look again even though I had already paid for my booking. I'm insane. Tell me, am I not? One should learn to let go, "Just let it go... and accept it", I remind myself. It might not be what someone else has described in their review but it will be my own experience and I can make it just as good as I would like it!
To end this off, I want to share with you a wise quote from the above site - "The freedom to make choices brings the responsibility to live with the consequences." (copyrighted to Psychology Today)
And now I shall wash my hands off it, force my brain to shut off and look forward to the holiday in October~
31.8.11
And so he has arrived...
This is a professional review on my new man >> here.
I read all about him. I went around searching for him (to have a test ride). When I finally found him, but my initial thoughts was he was quite a handful, as in he took up the whole of my palm! He wasn't the easiest to mind read; I kept pressing on his wrong buttons, at times I almost gave up. He doesn't has a manual, the only way to know him is still to keep pressing those buttons till I get them right. A pdf could only go this far. Forums do help.
To date, it has been a little over 2 weeks, 17 days old to be exact. I'm still figuring him out, it probably will take me quite a while. I don't think I know everything about my BB whom now sits by my bed as my alarm. His rubber parts have all fallen apart making him prone to dust invasion, so I have to tuck him nicely in a pouch. I still recall having a spare samsung phone which I need to bring out on special occasions, e.g. attending a wedding dinner, a party or anything I wouldn't have much time on the phone! Now, how many phones is considered too many??
Anyway, why did I choose this man? It's very simple, I pick anything free* that goes with my plan. My desired brand this time round is HTC, and there are only 2 choices - Wildfire S and Incredible S. The only thing keeping me back from the purchase was the HTC support in Singapore which I read is horrendous. I hope I never have to use them. I would have considered HTC ChaCha just for the keypad but they are only limited to SingTel, so one choice down. I later saw it in reality and thought I would never give up BB for ChaCha if you saw the way it looked.
*Means I only pay a nominal fee 2 years later if I keep this phone.
While it has a few things I'm still getting used to, such as a touchscreen keypad, highly sensitive touchscreen, pressing the power button everytime I need to unlock it... Also many that Android can possibly improve, having folders in "All apps" instead of on home screen, enhanced address book and other built in apps but these we can easily replaced with the others we choose to install.
I'm not a big iPhone fan, but I don't hate them as well. I think they are good if you just want it like a bundle, just like a packaged tour, it comes all inclusive with many add-ons. I do like to point out a few things my handful man can do (I'm not an iPhone user, so correct me if I'm wrong if iPhone can do that as well):
1. Weather widget
My favourite built in app. It rains and shines on my screen, it never fails to brighten up a gloomy day.
2. Customisable apps and themes
I have now Go SMS and Go Contacts to replace the default SMS inbox and address book. Sorry B, Handcent SMS interface doesn't appeal as much to me as this one does. I can even use a different theme everytime! I have a few now. I'm looking forward to change it to the Christmas one when time comes.
3. I can stick a post-it note on my home screen as a reminder!
4. I have 6 screens to play around with to place my favourite short-cuts, or widgets from the apps, e.g. daily horoscope, weather or news feed.
I can't think of more now, but I will tell you later if I find out more new features. I never thought anything of widgets until I'm now an Android user! They are godsend inventions!! By now, I have already 7 pages of apps from the inital 2-3 provided, I'm becoming an apps whore. The 8mp camera also comes with default lomo effects which I can readily apply. But who needs them when there are too many free apps around! Mr. Incredible S is also lighter than iPhone 4, I have allowed my surrounding iPhone users to have a comparison test.
So he's really quite a handful, isn't he!
Pinkly annoying
Something as easy as the wrong nail color spoils my mood. I don't know why but perhaps this is what color therapy is all about. I wore red (code 60, Golden Rose) some days back, it was bright, cheery and attention seeking. I have to agree it's an awesome red color. Though I enjoyed it, it wasn't really my color. It made me more prone to agitation and impatience.
My colleague kindly lent me two of her polishes she bought from Korea. The crimson pink (PK 204, Nature Republic) that looked awesome on her somehow sits on me now like we aren't related. It was a pleasant sight at first, but the more I look at it, the more I feel how unsuitable they are on me. It irritates me that I am unable to get them off right now. So *itchy hands* I topped them off with a layer of Essie Petal Pink, a translucent light pink, it somehow changes the color. Now, more a toned down crimson pink. I wonder how long they will last on my fingers, I don't have much confidence they will.
My colleague kindly lent me two of her polishes she bought from Korea. The crimson pink (PK 204, Nature Republic) that looked awesome on her somehow sits on me now like we aren't related. It was a pleasant sight at first, but the more I look at it, the more I feel how unsuitable they are on me. It irritates me that I am unable to get them off right now. So *itchy hands* I topped them off with a layer of Essie Petal Pink, a translucent light pink, it somehow changes the color. Now, more a toned down crimson pink. I wonder how long they will last on my fingers, I don't have much confidence they will.
30.8.11
BB I miss you!
I really do.
If you ever see me blog from mobile, I am using my BB. It's almost impossible for me to type on a touchscreen without feeling like throwing it against the wall. Nothing beats a real keypad. I do love my new phone for all the other functions, except accidentally tapping on my data usage! Other than that, it serves me pretty well. Ebooks, games, camera applications... The awesome weather widget, the ability to bookmark news for offline reading, free messaging with my oversea friends... There's definitely a lot more, so I can close one eye about the keypad. It just means I would write lesser, but I still can with my BB I guess :) I want to tell you all about the new phone but I shall leave it to another time.
Have a good holiday everyone!
If you ever see me blog from mobile, I am using my BB. It's almost impossible for me to type on a touchscreen without feeling like throwing it against the wall. Nothing beats a real keypad. I do love my new phone for all the other functions, except accidentally tapping on my data usage! Other than that, it serves me pretty well. Ebooks, games, camera applications... The awesome weather widget, the ability to bookmark news for offline reading, free messaging with my oversea friends... There's definitely a lot more, so I can close one eye about the keypad. It just means I would write lesser, but I still can with my BB I guess :) I want to tell you all about the new phone but I shall leave it to another time.
Have a good holiday everyone!
Weird peh-peh
I wonder if it pays to be nice. I guess not all the time. Today I gave up my seat to a peh-peh, someone old enough to be my grandpa by the look of it. When a seat was available, I ended up sitting besides him, he then got a little friendly and asked where I was heading. I told him reluctantly, coincidentally he was heading to the same destination. Then he asked where I am staying! I gave a rough answer about the area but he kept asking me for my block number that it freaked me out. He told me he's staying at Block 260. Hello peh-peh, thanks for telling me that, but I have no intention to let you know where I stay. Say I'm paranoid if you want but this is not the kampong era where you probably could easily trust all the people in your little kampong.
22.8.11
Choco flakes
My nails are resting from the polishes, it has been about 4 days.
My wallet has been resting since Friday, I had forgotten my wallet that day. Now I am in debts, but should be able to repay my dear friend and colleague soon. I decided to forgo the Club 21 Bazaar Sale over the weekend to make my chocolate cornflakes (to imitate a similar Japanese snack which has discontinued!!) and do some chores (yea, the usual - laundry, dumping the recyclables in the bins downstairs and tidying up the kitchen).
Here's the simple recipe for my chocolate cornflakes. I leave them in the fridge now as they were sticking together and wasn't easy to dry up!
Ingredients:
A bar of bittersweet chocolate, Van Houten, 200g
A box of cornflakes, 325g (but only used 30-40%)
I should really temper the chocolate but I haven't had the proper equipments to. But I did use similar steps, using the double boiler method. I don't have that, so I used a bowl to contain my chopped chocolate and place it over a pan of water. The chocolate melted really quickly as I stirred it with my rubber spatula. Soon enough, it was smooth and silky. I couldn't measure the temperature! So I just based it on my guts :) Then I removed the bowl of melted chocolate, and add in the cornflakes bit by bit, till most of the chocolate were used up. Then I lay the coated cornflakes on a piece of aluminium foil. Now they are sitting in two containers in my fridge, I'm pretty pleased I could make so much out of so little. It costs $4.80 for a small pack in the Japanese snack store, though that's not the one I'm imitating (which is in the shape of sliced pizza).
My wallet has been resting since Friday, I had forgotten my wallet that day. Now I am in debts, but should be able to repay my dear friend and colleague soon. I decided to forgo the Club 21 Bazaar Sale over the weekend to make my chocolate cornflakes (to imitate a similar Japanese snack which has discontinued!!) and do some chores (yea, the usual - laundry, dumping the recyclables in the bins downstairs and tidying up the kitchen).
Here's the simple recipe for my chocolate cornflakes. I leave them in the fridge now as they were sticking together and wasn't easy to dry up!
Ingredients:
A bar of bittersweet chocolate, Van Houten, 200g
A box of cornflakes, 325g (but only used 30-40%)
I should really temper the chocolate but I haven't had the proper equipments to. But I did use similar steps, using the double boiler method. I don't have that, so I used a bowl to contain my chopped chocolate and place it over a pan of water. The chocolate melted really quickly as I stirred it with my rubber spatula. Soon enough, it was smooth and silky. I couldn't measure the temperature! So I just based it on my guts :) Then I removed the bowl of melted chocolate, and add in the cornflakes bit by bit, till most of the chocolate were used up. Then I lay the coated cornflakes on a piece of aluminium foil. Now they are sitting in two containers in my fridge, I'm pretty pleased I could make so much out of so little. It costs $4.80 for a small pack in the Japanese snack store, though that's not the one I'm imitating (which is in the shape of sliced pizza).
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)