This is the first Chinese New Year in years I can remember that I didn't visit my "grandma's house". She passed away last June. So technically, it's not "grandma's house" anymore but my uncle's. Things just do not feel the same anymore.
I often wonder what's the most important value in kinship, most people around me place their emphasis on money over love. So many families break up because of money, inheritance and greed. It became the same at home, money is a sign of filial piety. Without them, there is no love.
When grandma was still around, my uncle's wife made everyone else contributed money to pay for the maids in her house, because she said she hired them for grandma. But they never took care of her well, she fell a couple of times and became bedridden. Still she only cared about money and the expenses grandma incurred. She is obviously way wealthier than everyone else in the family but like the rich, the wealthier they are, the tighter their wallets become.
This Chinese New Year I spent it chilling at home, while the rest of the family went over to uncle's place. Many others skipped because according to some traditions, the "sons in the family" weren't allowed to celebrate the festival. So the uncles could not give out "ang pao" but the aunties (like my mum) could. Due to this, I didn't get to see everyone this time unlike the past years. But we had open house twice over the two weekends where aunties, uncles and cousins popped over. I think it will be the same the coming years.
Despite the quiet celebrations, I welcome the year of Horse and may the new year starts with good wealth and propserity come galloping through. On the side note, the little sister finally found her ideal job after two years. There is hope as long as you persevere, I say! I am happy for her and am hoping the same for me soon!
Showing posts with label chinese. Show all posts
Showing posts with label chinese. Show all posts
13.2.14
10.4.11
Lieber Opa
My grandpa would be 92 if he's still alive today. I have never heard much about him, nor have I seen his picture. Out of curiosity, I joined the extended families for tomb sweeping, just hours ago.
For the first time, I visited a real cemetery in Singapore. When my auntie and uncle passed away, they were cremated and the urns are now placed at the temples. It seems like burial is no longer widely practised. Also, for the first time, I saw grandpa's photo on his tomb... and his name is Jinlong. He looks like what mum has described, a combination of my second and third uncle. Grandpa died when he was only 54, because he was ill. But I am really amazed he managed 11 children, I couldn't imagine how hard life was when he left all of them with poor grandma who was a housewife all along.
During the journey back, my aunt told me some stories of the past... My aunties and uncles must have such a close bond, they sacrificed their lives in order to support the siblings and let the younger ones had the chance to go to school. Today, it is so different, children dread going to school...
So to let you in about what we did for tomb sweeping... I shall share a little.
When we arrived (in 3 cars), the graveyard was surrounded by cars, many people came for the same purpose. We celebrate QingMing festival (which falls on April 5 this year) in Singapore by visiting the burial grounds of our ancestors and paying respects to them again.
It was nearly midnight and pitch dark as these areas weren't lit by lamp posts, so we had to carry torches as my uncle led the way, excusing ourselves from the other "neighours". We found grandpa's. The cousins and I then decorated the top of his grave (which is covered by plants, snails, slugs and grasshoppers) with colored papers, I guess it's a good sign with all the living creatures around him! Signs of life. Then my aunties and uncles aranged food, a can of beer, cigarettes, candles, joss sticks and incense papers before his tomb. We each paid respects to him, kneeling before his photo and telling him who we are. He died 8 years before I was borned, so I guess my face must be a stranger to him. After he "finished enjoying his food", we burned the incense papers and slowly made our way back.
It was about 2am when we were done, and everyone went for a drink thereafter. I must be mad writing this past 3am in the morning, but I thought it's an interesting night to share :)
For the first time, I visited a real cemetery in Singapore. When my auntie and uncle passed away, they were cremated and the urns are now placed at the temples. It seems like burial is no longer widely practised. Also, for the first time, I saw grandpa's photo on his tomb... and his name is Jinlong. He looks like what mum has described, a combination of my second and third uncle. Grandpa died when he was only 54, because he was ill. But I am really amazed he managed 11 children, I couldn't imagine how hard life was when he left all of them with poor grandma who was a housewife all along.
During the journey back, my aunt told me some stories of the past... My aunties and uncles must have such a close bond, they sacrificed their lives in order to support the siblings and let the younger ones had the chance to go to school. Today, it is so different, children dread going to school...
So to let you in about what we did for tomb sweeping... I shall share a little.
When we arrived (in 3 cars), the graveyard was surrounded by cars, many people came for the same purpose. We celebrate QingMing festival (which falls on April 5 this year) in Singapore by visiting the burial grounds of our ancestors and paying respects to them again.
It was nearly midnight and pitch dark as these areas weren't lit by lamp posts, so we had to carry torches as my uncle led the way, excusing ourselves from the other "neighours". We found grandpa's. The cousins and I then decorated the top of his grave (which is covered by plants, snails, slugs and grasshoppers) with colored papers, I guess it's a good sign with all the living creatures around him! Signs of life. Then my aunties and uncles aranged food, a can of beer, cigarettes, candles, joss sticks and incense papers before his tomb. We each paid respects to him, kneeling before his photo and telling him who we are. He died 8 years before I was borned, so I guess my face must be a stranger to him. After he "finished enjoying his food", we burned the incense papers and slowly made our way back.
It was about 2am when we were done, and everyone went for a drink thereafter. I must be mad writing this past 3am in the morning, but I thought it's an interesting night to share :)
26.3.11
Snacks, from all over
Long long overdue... and thus I'll try to collate them in one long entry or possibly a few. Yes, yes, it's all about food and I just love talking to you about them ;)
Some time ago, boss gave this to us at work. Apparently, it's from Scotland. It's Tunnock's Caramel wafer, I normally dislike caramel because it's too sweet for me. Since it's imported, I decided to give it a try. The caramel made the wafer very sticky and chewy, unlike the crisp ones we normally get here. My colleague didn't enjoy it, however I quite like the "chewy" feel :)
Another Scottish import! Well, I brought this one back the other day... I happened to see this when I was having tea at Haddo House, it was sold in their bakery cum cafe. Apparently, it's handmade. It's more chocolate than toffee really, a misperception I had from the packaging. Milk chocolate with crunchy toffee bits, and yes it's sweet. I'm not a toffee person, bought this for anyone who likes it but ended up poor chocolate is being neglected so I had to do it. But it wasn't as bad as I thought as the toffee was minimal.
I am not sure where this box of Pocky is from (I bought it in a snacks shop), I think it's manufactured in Thailand. It has two of my favourite things, chocolate and banana - always the best combination. I always got to have it when I see chocolate banana crepe, ice cream, muffin... or anything you can think of!
A colleague got back from Hong Kong and has a whole bag of these duck tongue. She asked if I would like to try as she has too much for herself. So I said, "Why not!" Mmmmm, I kind of regretted saying that because after the experience, I didn't even want to bring the rest home for my family. I passed them on to the daring souls in the office who have acquired tastebuds for them! Fortunately, a Hong Kong girl, an Indonesian guy and another guy from China seem to enjoy them :)
Let me share with you the experience. When I opened it, it literally looked like a tongue! It was coated with some sticky syrup. So I decided to close my eyes and popped it in. It was soft and the texture felt like eating a chicken heart (if you ever tried)... except that there were bones!!! I didn't really enjoy it as I felt like I was biting some muscles (attached with bones) off an animal. Ermm... I guess let's just stop here.
Hell no... Don't underestimate these small little packets. There are very addictive. I think I had almost 30% of the whole box my colleague brought back from the Philippines.Wikipedia says Polvorones are spanish shortbreads and indeed Philippines is one of ex-Spanish colonies, so no surprise there! It's said they are popular during the Christmas season, I wonder if they have it during the normal time... If I ever visit, I will buy a whole lot of these! By the way, the original flavour is the best, I also like pinipig and cashew!
These are variation of the normal "Baby Ball" or so called "Egg Boro" snack I used to have when I was young. They melt in your mouth after some time... that's why it's a baby snack, you don't need to have teeth to eat them. But the Japanese version as captured above has exotic flavours, spinach and pumpkin. I thought these are also a more healthy type of snacks, my parents also seem to enjoy them.
I bought this the other day because it looked so queer. It's sweet potato ice cream shaped just like sweet potato. The Japanese are really imaginative! But it's not cheap, it's about S$5 for this, but just for the novelty of it, why not! I find it pretty unique, it has sweet potato flavoured ice cream and bits of sweet potato on the bottom as shown. It's also not too sweet for me.
Credits to my dearest Taiwanese friend, Carrie (I mentioned this the other day but without a picture)!! Thanks for the authentic sun biscuits from Taichung, they are simply the best :) I prefer these to wife biscuits from Hong Kong now.
This has been my dinner for some of my fat-free diet days. Oh my... I always like the Dairy Farmers yogurt; they are Australian, thick and creamy just like the tagline says. I used to buy the small cups which do not come as worthy as this. I have been dying to try this flavour ever since I saw it but it doesn't come in the small cup. So there, I just gotta have this! It has real passionfruit in it!
Let me share with you the experience. When I opened it, it literally looked like a tongue! It was coated with some sticky syrup. So I decided to close my eyes and popped it in. It was soft and the texture felt like eating a chicken heart (if you ever tried)... except that there were bones!!! I didn't really enjoy it as I felt like I was biting some muscles (attached with bones) off an animal. Ermm... I guess let's just stop here.
3.2.11
Happy Labbit Year!
2011 is the year of Rabbit, also the year my mum was borned... Gosh, time is flying and we're all getting old. Sometimes I wish time will pause for a moment, and let us look back at the years. I almost have forgotten many of the things that have happened... probably best especially when it comes to bad stuff ;)
Jet lag is hitting me hard. I was so tired when I got home past 1pm and immediately went for the bed. I think I slept a good 3-4 hours before being awakened by everyone for dinner.
Reunion dinner today was steamboat, the usual we would always have when mum doesn't feel like cooking. It was good, easy and very filling. Then we had raw fish salad, which we usually tossed for luck and prosperity. Then I helped dad to sort out his red packets (except those for us, of course)... always feel good to have money in my hands ;)
I just managed to put away my 2 luggages to clear the space for welcoming guests the next days. But the place is still in a little mess due to my sisters' laziness. But I think we have done pretty well this year, as we grow older, we are more willingly to dump away things. The problem with people is that we always want to keep something with sentimental value and it seems like everything comes with it! But I guess we've learned more to let it go ;)
There's a tradition that the children have to stay up late on the eve of Lunar New Year for the longevity of the parents and somehow we always managed to do it every year. It is a new year for the Chinese as it's the next animal down the cycle, somehow I feel the same (New year is 1st January for me). But we have this habit of reading the prediction for our animal sign for the Rabbit year, the telly always show it during the countdown and some fengshui master will be giving a brief summary of the luck this coming year. I don't really believe in them, if I do, then all roosters will have the same luck?!
It's half past 12, already into the 1st day of the Rabbit year... and hereby wishing my readers:
Jet lag is hitting me hard. I was so tired when I got home past 1pm and immediately went for the bed. I think I slept a good 3-4 hours before being awakened by everyone for dinner.
Reunion dinner today was steamboat, the usual we would always have when mum doesn't feel like cooking. It was good, easy and very filling. Then we had raw fish salad, which we usually tossed for luck and prosperity. Then I helped dad to sort out his red packets (except those for us, of course)... always feel good to have money in my hands ;)
I just managed to put away my 2 luggages to clear the space for welcoming guests the next days. But the place is still in a little mess due to my sisters' laziness. But I think we have done pretty well this year, as we grow older, we are more willingly to dump away things. The problem with people is that we always want to keep something with sentimental value and it seems like everything comes with it! But I guess we've learned more to let it go ;)
There's a tradition that the children have to stay up late on the eve of Lunar New Year for the longevity of the parents and somehow we always managed to do it every year. It is a new year for the Chinese as it's the next animal down the cycle, somehow I feel the same (New year is 1st January for me). But we have this habit of reading the prediction for our animal sign for the Rabbit year, the telly always show it during the countdown and some fengshui master will be giving a brief summary of the luck this coming year. I don't really believe in them, if I do, then all roosters will have the same luck?!
It's half past 12, already into the 1st day of the Rabbit year... and hereby wishing my readers:
HAPPY LUNAR NEW YEAR TO ALL WHOM ARE CELEBRATING!!!
25.12.10
Frohe Weihnachten!
It's the time of the year again!
MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE!!
A festive season filled with many wonderful memories of the past... This year, it's a rather quiet one; in the past years, I spent it at dinner with friends or held a mini party at home with the sisters. But both sisters are away, so I decided to take my parents out for a meal. (As one gets older, sometimes priorities do take a shift!) Just 3 of us at a nice Chinese restaurant named PUTIEN, they seemed to enjoy it as mum was still going on about the fried duck wrapped with yam on the phone. So here's some pictures to share our joy :)
Apparently this brand derives its roots from Putian, a town in the Fujian province of China. It began as a small restaurant in Singapore and has since expanded to 7 outlets, and needless to say, the prices have also increased tremendously. I have heard many good stories about the food and so I thought I shall take the parents there. It's my first time too!
The dishes are tasty and suit my parents' tradtitional tastebuds well, though the prices are a little on the steep side. That "Deep Fried Duck with Yam" costed $15.90, the yam portion was more than the meat! Not that we mind since mum and I love yam! Those "Homemade Beancurd" were smooth and silky, we really enjoyed them. We also got "Seaweed Soup with Wonton" (forgot to name that in the picture, it's in the centre), it was quite appetising and a perfect starter. Dad has to have rice at his meal times or he would go jelly on his knees, so we ordered the only rice item, the "Seafood Fried Rice" and it was quite the standard one like everywhere else. I like the idea of "Mee Sua" (also named "妈祖面线" in Chinese, what a nice name!) since I read a review that it was quite good, so we ordered it too. It came with seafood and wasn't the usual Mee Sua mum loved to cook at home. It came last, all of us were pretty stuffed by then, but it was so delectable that we finished it all. There was no room for dessert though I really would love to have one... haha.
All in all, it was a pleasant dinner! It will be a bonus if they have some cards' promotion, then we will go there more often ;) They only take reservations for big crowd, but I rang up earlier to put my name just in case there's going to be a queue, and it did turn out there was a waiting list. Fortunately, they managed to give us a table fast enough as the old people have little patience.
MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE!!
A festive season filled with many wonderful memories of the past... This year, it's a rather quiet one; in the past years, I spent it at dinner with friends or held a mini party at home with the sisters. But both sisters are away, so I decided to take my parents out for a meal. (As one gets older, sometimes priorities do take a shift!) Just 3 of us at a nice Chinese restaurant named PUTIEN, they seemed to enjoy it as mum was still going on about the fried duck wrapped with yam on the phone. So here's some pictures to share our joy :)
Apparently this brand derives its roots from Putian, a town in the Fujian province of China. It began as a small restaurant in Singapore and has since expanded to 7 outlets, and needless to say, the prices have also increased tremendously. I have heard many good stories about the food and so I thought I shall take the parents there. It's my first time too!
The dishes are tasty and suit my parents' tradtitional tastebuds well, though the prices are a little on the steep side. That "Deep Fried Duck with Yam" costed $15.90, the yam portion was more than the meat! Not that we mind since mum and I love yam! Those "Homemade Beancurd" were smooth and silky, we really enjoyed them. We also got "Seaweed Soup with Wonton" (forgot to name that in the picture, it's in the centre), it was quite appetising and a perfect starter. Dad has to have rice at his meal times or he would go jelly on his knees, so we ordered the only rice item, the "Seafood Fried Rice" and it was quite the standard one like everywhere else. I like the idea of "Mee Sua" (also named "妈祖面线" in Chinese, what a nice name!) since I read a review that it was quite good, so we ordered it too. It came with seafood and wasn't the usual Mee Sua mum loved to cook at home. It came last, all of us were pretty stuffed by then, but it was so delectable that we finished it all. There was no room for dessert though I really would love to have one... haha.
All in all, it was a pleasant dinner! It will be a bonus if they have some cards' promotion, then we will go there more often ;) They only take reservations for big crowd, but I rang up earlier to put my name just in case there's going to be a queue, and it did turn out there was a waiting list. Fortunately, they managed to give us a table fast enough as the old people have little patience.
16.2.10
虎年 - Year of Tigga
It's officially the Tiger year since 14th February 00:00.
And to think that my little sister also turned 2 of a dozen on the same day! Happy Birthday 小妹！ Happy Valentine's too!
It was said to be an awesome year for Roosters (especially in the love aspect after a few years of disastrous love life)... Though I rather choose to believe in myself than pinning all the hope on what the fortune-tellers or horoscopes say...
缘分？是多一点缘？还是多一点粪？Some friends found this tagline I wrote funny... but it just came to my mind! Is it more "shit" than "fate" in what you people called FATE? It makes no sense to someone who doesn't understand Mandarin, because it's a little word play... but to some people whom do understand Mandarin, they don't quite get it too. So I guess, I'm the only one who is able to understand what I am saying.
There's so much to hope for this year and so much I want to make it come true... Let's all work towards it instead of relying it on the "lucky year" because no one is going to help if we aren't going to help ourselves!
I have gradually lost interest in many things I used to love in the past, or probably I have just shifted my priorities and beliefs. Tigga year is going to be a good one, yes for everyone who believe in it! I am also certain that all things are better this year. 放“虎”过来吧！
And to think that my little sister also turned 2 of a dozen on the same day! Happy Birthday 小妹！ Happy Valentine's too!
It was said to be an awesome year for Roosters (especially in the love aspect after a few years of disastrous love life)... Though I rather choose to believe in myself than pinning all the hope on what the fortune-tellers or horoscopes say...
缘分？是多一点缘？还是多一点粪？Some friends found this tagline I wrote funny... but it just came to my mind! Is it more "shit" than "fate" in what you people called FATE? It makes no sense to someone who doesn't understand Mandarin, because it's a little word play... but to some people whom do understand Mandarin, they don't quite get it too. So I guess, I'm the only one who is able to understand what I am saying.
There's so much to hope for this year and so much I want to make it come true... Let's all work towards it instead of relying it on the "lucky year" because no one is going to help if we aren't going to help ourselves!
I have gradually lost interest in many things I used to love in the past, or probably I have just shifted my priorities and beliefs. Tigga year is going to be a good one, yes for everyone who believe in it! I am also certain that all things are better this year. 放“虎”过来吧！
HAPPY LUNAR NEW YEAR TO YOU!
4.3.09
Oh my!
Have you guys come across this website omy.sg?? If you have been to STOMP website, this is pretty similar. I have to say, having worked for STOMP and now seeing omy.sg, I really don't know what STOMP is doing..!!!! Omy is a so much better product!!!!!!!!!! Sorry to say that (coming from STOMP team myself) but hey that's the truth. Omy is the chinese version of STOMP, both of them focus on citizen journalism and news/information extracted from print, but when it comes to layout, design, content, user-friendliness and everything else... I have to say I have a huge preference for Omy. I guess one of the reasons I left the team was I wasn't enjoying what I was doing for STOMP, besides setting up a few really cool microsites - that's about it!
16.2.09
A special V day
And no.............. it's not with a man! Well, I don't think I have had many V days with the male species yet, there was one or a few but nothing memorable.
This year, I got a surprise from one of my best friends - 15 years of friendship! Geez. She gave me a little gift, she has been giving me a snowglobe every year since the day I mentioned I am collecting them. Very sweet of her! She gave me a card too, a handwritten one. I have written countless... countless letters or cards to my friends, and it has been ages someone wrote me one. I feel special. Privileged. Excited. And I wonder if these were the feelings of those whom have gotten my letters/cards in the past?! TELL ME please.
She wrote in the card that she has dedicated this song by 范玮琪 to me. Here's the song:
I want to tell you and all my friends that no matter how little we communicate sometimes or how some of us lost touch over time... Some things will never change. A good friend will try to be there for you and the best are often always there even when you don't see it. So please cherish those you know whom are always there for you!!
This year, I got a surprise from one of my best friends - 15 years of friendship! Geez. She gave me a little gift, she has been giving me a snowglobe every year since the day I mentioned I am collecting them. Very sweet of her! She gave me a card too, a handwritten one. I have written countless... countless letters or cards to my friends, and it has been ages someone wrote me one. I feel special. Privileged. Excited. And I wonder if these were the feelings of those whom have gotten my letters/cards in the past?! TELL ME please.
She wrote in the card that she has dedicated this song by 范玮琪 to me. Here's the song:
一个像夏天 一个像秋天
第一次见面看你不太顺眼
谁知道后来关系那么密切
我们一个像夏天一个像秋天
却总能把冬天变成了春天
你拖我离开一场爱的风雪
我背你逃出一次梦的断裂
遇见一个人然后生命全改变
原来不是恋爱才有的情节
如果不是妳 我不会相信
朋友比情人还死心塌地
就算我忙恋爱 把你冷冻结冰
你也不会恨我 只是骂我几句
如果不是妳 我不会确定
朋友比情人更懂得倾听
我的弦外之音 我的有口无心
我离不开Darling更离不开你
妳了解我所有得意的东西
才常泼我冷水怕我忘形
你知道我所有丢脸的事情
却为我的美好形象保密
第一次见面看你不太顺眼
谁知道后来关系那么密切
我们一个像夏天一个像秋天
却总能把冬天变成了春天
你拖我离开一场爱的风雪
我背你逃出一次梦的断裂
遇见一个人然后生命全改变
原来不是恋爱才有的情节
如果不是妳 我不会相信
朋友比情人还死心塌地
就算我忙恋爱 把你冷冻结冰
你也不会恨我 只是骂我几句
如果不是妳 我不会确定
朋友比情人更懂得倾听
我的弦外之音 我的有口无心
我离不开Darling更离不开你
妳了解我所有得意的东西
才常泼我冷水怕我忘形
你知道我所有丢脸的事情
却为我的美好形象保密
I want to tell you and all my friends that no matter how little we communicate sometimes or how some of us lost touch over time... Some things will never change. A good friend will try to be there for you and the best are often always there even when you don't see it. So please cherish those you know whom are always there for you!!
31.1.09
So much for the year of Rat, here comes Mr. Ox
My sister was reluctant to have her Mickey mouse decorations from last year removed... Gosh, they had been there for a year. I took them down and told her she can "recycle" them 12 years later! ;)
The year of Rat wasn't smooth-sailing for Rooster (me)... Even the last days, I was bugged with viruses. Flu, sore throat, fever and more... I finally gave up on the Saturday before Chinese New Year's eve and went to the doctor. I really dread being ill when I have to go house-visiting. So... fortunately I managed to welcome Mr. Ox with a speedy recovery. I wasn't fully recovered, but at least I wasn't having a temperature anymore, my throat was no longer swollen and painful to swallow!
This year it is very special that Chinese New Year actually falls over Monday and Tuesday, so there was lots of time for preparation over the long weekend. Unfortunately, I was bedridden half the time and didn't do as much as I could.
The first day was as usual, we parked ourselves at Grandma's house and everyone gradually turned up. It was a long day, sitting there doing the usual stuff (smiling, greeting the elderly, eating, watching TV). It was boring but at least it was the only time ALL OF US would turn up, 90% of my cousins were there (yes, I have lots of them!!). One of them whom is my age got married last year, and this year she's actually giving us Ang Pao.. which is kinda funny since she's as old as us or even younger than some of the bachelorettes.
The second day, we had a few families (neighbours, aunts, uncles, cousins) over. Poor mum had to get up super early to prepare the meals for all of them. Feeling exceptionally eager to help, I helped her with some of her food preparation and learnt a new dish - Pig's organ soup. The cleaning is quite disgusting, and I was shocked at how dirty the intestines were. Eeeew. Now that I learnt it, I don't even know if I want to cook that in future. I didn't have the soup at the end (probably after what I saw!). I tried chopping the chicken with a chopper too, but didn't do a very good job! :P
Speaking of the year of Ox, it reminds me my dad is almost 60. Dreadful.
On the third day, some people have gone back to work. I wanted to visit the temple (in the new chinese year of Ox) but mum told me that it was a holiday for God that day. So I went to a friend (a couple)'s place with Syn and was wii-ing and mahjong-ing till I almost missed my dinner time. Dinner was steamboat at home, the same thing over and over during the festive season. We had it on the first day too.
Finally on Thursday I headed to the temple, its surrounding was congested with lots of people. God has came back from his/her holiday and everyone was already asking favours from him/her. I can imagine him/her having a hard time. Normally I would draw a lot but I didn't yesterday... I only went to talk to him/her. I also found my favourite mini oranges on the way back... those small oranges are really sweet. YUM.
Crowds gathering around to buy BIG SWEEP tickets from a handicapped guy near the "big balloon Fortune God statue".
Superstitious people would go for a face-reading, palm-reading or have their date of birth analysed for the year of Ox.
The year of Rat wasn't smooth-sailing for Rooster (me)... Even the last days, I was bugged with viruses. Flu, sore throat, fever and more... I finally gave up on the Saturday before Chinese New Year's eve and went to the doctor. I really dread being ill when I have to go house-visiting. So... fortunately I managed to welcome Mr. Ox with a speedy recovery. I wasn't fully recovered, but at least I wasn't having a temperature anymore, my throat was no longer swollen and painful to swallow!
This year it is very special that Chinese New Year actually falls over Monday and Tuesday, so there was lots of time for preparation over the long weekend. Unfortunately, I was bedridden half the time and didn't do as much as I could.
The first day was as usual, we parked ourselves at Grandma's house and everyone gradually turned up. It was a long day, sitting there doing the usual stuff (smiling, greeting the elderly, eating, watching TV). It was boring but at least it was the only time ALL OF US would turn up, 90% of my cousins were there (yes, I have lots of them!!). One of them whom is my age got married last year, and this year she's actually giving us Ang Pao.. which is kinda funny since she's as old as us or even younger than some of the bachelorettes.
The second day, we had a few families (neighbours, aunts, uncles, cousins) over. Poor mum had to get up super early to prepare the meals for all of them. Feeling exceptionally eager to help, I helped her with some of her food preparation and learnt a new dish - Pig's organ soup. The cleaning is quite disgusting, and I was shocked at how dirty the intestines were. Eeeew. Now that I learnt it, I don't even know if I want to cook that in future. I didn't have the soup at the end (probably after what I saw!). I tried chopping the chicken with a chopper too, but didn't do a very good job! :P
Speaking of the year of Ox, it reminds me my dad is almost 60. Dreadful.
On the third day, some people have gone back to work. I wanted to visit the temple (in the new chinese year of Ox) but mum told me that it was a holiday for God that day. So I went to a friend (a couple)'s place with Syn and was wii-ing and mahjong-ing till I almost missed my dinner time. Dinner was steamboat at home, the same thing over and over during the festive season. We had it on the first day too.
Finally on Thursday I headed to the temple, its surrounding was congested with lots of people. God has came back from his/her holiday and everyone was already asking favours from him/her. I can imagine him/her having a hard time. Normally I would draw a lot but I didn't yesterday... I only went to talk to him/her. I also found my favourite mini oranges on the way back... those small oranges are really sweet. YUM.Here's some pictures to share - on the temple trip.
Crowds gathering around to buy BIG SWEEP tickets from a handicapped guy near the "big balloon Fortune God statue".
Superstitious people would go for a face-reading, palm-reading or have their date of birth analysed for the year of Ox.3.9.08
12 Lotus
After a very impressive 881, I expected more from Royston Tan's 12 Lotus.
In 12 Lotus, they have some of the same cast as 881, this time round Qi Yu Wu has a more involved role than his last. It's another musical (Getai singing) film, but I really prefer the previous film which has already set a much higher standard. The lipsync was quite bad too... due to the songs being sang in dialects. Some great songs though.
The show depicts the life of a girl, Lian Hua (Lotus in English), and I reckon 12 refers to the 12 chapters of her life which she sang in the film. From young, Lian Hua hoped to sing and perform on the stage (Getai - please refer to my previous 881 post if you're not sure of the Chinese cultures). Her dad was a compulsive gambler, and every bit of her earnings unfortunately was feeding his bad habit. Till the day, he actually gambled her daughter's life away by signing a paper that has then changed her daughter's destiny. Selfish bastard. On his death bed, he gave Lian Hua a last word of advice but unfortunately he himself was the cause of her misfortune. Her daughter fell in love with another fellow Getai singer who secretly manipulated her and plotted her sexual assualt with his "friends". All these because of one thing, money. Evil. Money is the evil of all sins.
Anyway, the whole story is tragic, it didn't touch me like 881 did. But instead it reminded me of my childhood where money was everything... and sometimes it still is. I hate it when anyone argues over the sake of money... So keep your mouth shut or stop complaining about money if you do not want me to shut you up.
My verdict: 3/5
In 12 Lotus, they have some of the same cast as 881, this time round Qi Yu Wu has a more involved role than his last. It's another musical (Getai singing) film, but I really prefer the previous film which has already set a much higher standard. The lipsync was quite bad too... due to the songs being sang in dialects. Some great songs though.
The show depicts the life of a girl, Lian Hua (Lotus in English), and I reckon 12 refers to the 12 chapters of her life which she sang in the film. From young, Lian Hua hoped to sing and perform on the stage (Getai - please refer to my previous 881 post if you're not sure of the Chinese cultures). Her dad was a compulsive gambler, and every bit of her earnings unfortunately was feeding his bad habit. Till the day, he actually gambled her daughter's life away by signing a paper that has then changed her daughter's destiny. Selfish bastard. On his death bed, he gave Lian Hua a last word of advice but unfortunately he himself was the cause of her misfortune. Her daughter fell in love with another fellow Getai singer who secretly manipulated her and plotted her sexual assualt with his "friends". All these because of one thing, money. Evil. Money is the evil of all sins.
Anyway, the whole story is tragic, it didn't touch me like 881 did. But instead it reminded me of my childhood where money was everything... and sometimes it still is. I hate it when anyone argues over the sake of money... So keep your mouth shut or stop complaining about money if you do not want me to shut you up.
My verdict: 3/5
29.3.08
More tasting...
vs
But before you stop reading because you're NOT a fan of sweet stuff... I'm saying the Green Tea & Red Bean dessert will actually suit your taste! A friend also recommended me Monster Ice (Plaza Singapura) which also does similar desserts, but I have yet to sample it... so here's the two I have tried.
Picture on top: Mango dessert @Hong Kong Cafe (Marina Square)
Verdict: Sweet and really sweet... Lot more ice than the mango bits. And of course, that scoop of mango ice cream, altogether they will make you skip having mangoes for a few weeks!! LOL. Good for once in a while indulgence, and remember to share it!
Picture on the bottom: Green Tea & Red Bean dessert @Shokudo (Raffles City basement)
Verdict: Much nicer than I thought, not too filling... That green tea taste is refreshing and combined with the red beans which offers mild sweetness. Best for people like me, whom are not too crazy about sweetness!! Would definitely try it again and again. Got me thinking of that Japanese ice cream (Liang Court) which offers a green tea & red bean flavour - now I think I must give it a try.
18.3.08
East meets West
Two very good places to eat.
First one, the chinese restaurant DIN TAI FUNG (Taiwanese-franchise, if I'm not wrong!) is a very affordable place with delicious, "I-want-more-more-more", "I can't get enough" dumplings. My personal favourite is the yam paste dumplings, however the pork dumplings are their speciality and are just as good. I must have both when I frequent!!! Not to be missed, the mushroom la mian (noodle) or even the minced pork version, you just go "yummmmmmm..." and keep pulling those noodles...;) That's why it's called "la mian" in mandarin, where "la" means "pull!!". I almost couldn't believe they do such addictive plum juice, I swear I never had one better than this!! So sour, sooooooo real, it's so PLUM, I just love it!
Second place, the overly priced JAAN!!! BUT BUT but for the ambience and being right on top of Swissotel, you have to pay extra for that excellent night view, very considerate and quality service. Each staff speaks a foreign language, they often come around with free flow of bread for you to pick and ask about your meal, they do clear ALL your utensils after each serving (e.g. starter...). Not to mention, the food although come in SMALL portions, they DO fill up your stomach. Good stuff. My pigeon is so so so tender, and that sauce, I almost had to lick them off my plate. Scallops are fresh and nicely done, jesus, if only they had an "upsize" option!! Now, it's your turn to drool...;)
First one, the chinese restaurant DIN TAI FUNG (Taiwanese-franchise, if I'm not wrong!) is a very affordable place with delicious, "I-want-more-more-more", "I can't get enough" dumplings. My personal favourite is the yam paste dumplings, however the pork dumplings are their speciality and are just as good. I must have both when I frequent!!! Not to be missed, the mushroom la mian (noodle) or even the minced pork version, you just go "yummmmmmm..." and keep pulling those noodles...;) That's why it's called "la mian" in mandarin, where "la" means "pull!!". I almost couldn't believe they do such addictive plum juice, I swear I never had one better than this!! So sour, sooooooo real, it's so PLUM, I just love it!
Second place, the overly priced JAAN!!! BUT BUT but for the ambience and being right on top of Swissotel, you have to pay extra for that excellent night view, very considerate and quality service. Each staff speaks a foreign language, they often come around with free flow of bread for you to pick and ask about your meal, they do clear ALL your utensils after each serving (e.g. starter...). Not to mention, the food although come in SMALL portions, they DO fill up your stomach. Good stuff. My pigeon is so so so tender, and that sauce, I almost had to lick them off my plate. Scallops are fresh and nicely done, jesus, if only they had an "upsize" option!! Now, it's your turn to drool...;)
8.2.08
Chinese house party :D
Today's the 2nd day of Chinese New Year, and we have lots of visitors. It's almost like a house party. We have 4 families over today in my house, even though it is not that big, somehow everyone was very comfortable and enjoying themselves. I used to dislike it when I was young, I hate it when people visited, especially the kids because they messed my stuff up. But growing up changes one's perspective... I like it today, in fact, I enjoy helping my mum hosting and entertaining the guests - which are our relatives.
My mum is a marvellous cook and my cousin was just telling me right after lunch,"Your mum can cook so much better...!" I supposed he's comparing to his mum! LOL. Shssshh... It was a really good catching up time because I only get to see some of my cousins once a year or in many months. So much laughter, chat, leisure-blackjack-gambling, eating new year goodies and of course sharing stories of each other's lives. We have all grown up... and I'm actually feeling a little ashamed to be still receiving red packets but well I'm not the oldest (fortunately)!
One of my cousins, my age, has got married last year... and she brought her husband along on the first day of Chinese New Year. Then it came to us that a lot of us are still single or happily seeing someone new. It didn't give me the pressure because at the present moment, I have never felt happier since 2 years! I enjoy my life now as it is. I like the way I keep my options open and not put all eggs in one basket, because when it fell you're not going to lose just one, but all of them. Lesson learnt.
This year my mum and sister baked my favourite Chinese New Year goodies - pineapple tarts. They are the must-have for me!!! However it was their first attempt and it tasted good but not the best. Mum's version was quite identical to stones - hard! Sister's ones are softer but well still not quite there yet. My cousin actually did it with her friends and hers are real yummmmmmm... I mean it, just the way I like it. I was so tired that Sunday, I just didn't have any energy to bake, but I'm pretty sure I'll get my hands on it someday!
The last few pieces of the yum yum tarts...!!
My mum is a marvellous cook and my cousin was just telling me right after lunch,"Your mum can cook so much better...!" I supposed he's comparing to his mum! LOL. Shssshh... It was a really good catching up time because I only get to see some of my cousins once a year or in many months. So much laughter, chat, leisure-blackjack-gambling, eating new year goodies and of course sharing stories of each other's lives. We have all grown up... and I'm actually feeling a little ashamed to be still receiving red packets but well I'm not the oldest (fortunately)!
One of my cousins, my age, has got married last year... and she brought her husband along on the first day of Chinese New Year. Then it came to us that a lot of us are still single or happily seeing someone new. It didn't give me the pressure because at the present moment, I have never felt happier since 2 years! I enjoy my life now as it is. I like the way I keep my options open and not put all eggs in one basket, because when it fell you're not going to lose just one, but all of them. Lesson learnt.
This year my mum and sister baked my favourite Chinese New Year goodies - pineapple tarts. They are the must-have for me!!! However it was their first attempt and it tasted good but not the best. Mum's version was quite identical to stones - hard! Sister's ones are softer but well still not quite there yet. My cousin actually did it with her friends and hers are real yummmmmmm... I mean it, just the way I like it. I was so tired that Sunday, I just didn't have any energy to bake, but I'm pretty sure I'll get my hands on it someday!
The last few pieces of the yum yum tarts...!!6.2.08
Ratatouille year in 10 minutes
Zehn minuten.
It's the year of Rat (mouse) in just minutes... Even though my best-ie friends are not around, I'm so glad I'm talking to 2 of them right now on MSN and going through the countdown, with one in London (UK) and one in Savannah (America)!! One more MIA in Dubai!!
This year, I slept through my reunion dinner! I actually haven't missed any before except the years I was still in Europe, so tonight it is an exception. I had a quick bite at 4pm, took a nap at 5pm and all of them decided to go with an early dinner (I bet Dad was too hungry!). Anyway, it is fine with me, as long as we spend the time home together... it's sufficient.
I wouldn't want to go through about the festival again, but read here for my past entry.
In 1 minute, guys.... People whom are celebrating, let's COUNTDOWN and have a healthy, prosperous and better start of RAT year!
It's the year of Rat (mouse) in just minutes... Even though my best-ie friends are not around, I'm so glad I'm talking to 2 of them right now on MSN and going through the countdown, with one in London (UK) and one in Savannah (America)!! One more MIA in Dubai!!
This year, I slept through my reunion dinner! I actually haven't missed any before except the years I was still in Europe, so tonight it is an exception. I had a quick bite at 4pm, took a nap at 5pm and all of them decided to go with an early dinner (I bet Dad was too hungry!). Anyway, it is fine with me, as long as we spend the time home together... it's sufficient.
I wouldn't want to go through about the festival again, but read here for my past entry.
In 1 minute, guys.... People whom are celebrating, let's COUNTDOWN and have a healthy, prosperous and better start of RAT year!
10.10.07
881
Papaya. 881 literally means Papaya. Try pronouncing in Mandarin with "1" as "yao". So that's how it comes about.
I have read so many good reviews about the film. Yet I haven't got the urge to step into the cinema for this local production (by Royston Tan)... until dear Syndy is set on watching it and we went. I didn't expect a "Hokkien" dominated film, and in fact minimal Chinese is spoken. That's fine and very good for refreshing my dialect knowledge as I rarely use it now.
881 is about "Getai". Performances meant for the dead and public, glamorous costumes, oldies songs, singing and dance performances, auctions. They are only here during the 7th lunar month, the Hungry Ghost festival where the Chinese pay respects to the dead. In the show, the Papaya sisters and the Durian sisters (played by the MTV VJ twins, their Mandarin really sucks and it made it so funny) are rivals on the stage.
There are a lot of comical moments and in fact, very localized. I think the humor too, is meant for the Singaporean audience. I am surprised I'm awed by this film. It is good, beyond my expectation. However, poor Qi Yu Wu's role isn't very exciting and there isn't much I feel he could have done given the role. The ending is really sad, Little Papaya sister died... and it does touch most of us (in the cinema) as well.
Very impressive sound tracks, very original and very touching.
Rating: 4/5 (only if Qi Yu Wu has more chances to reveal his potential, might worth .5 more)
I have read so many good reviews about the film. Yet I haven't got the urge to step into the cinema for this local production (by Royston Tan)... until dear Syndy is set on watching it and we went. I didn't expect a "Hokkien" dominated film, and in fact minimal Chinese is spoken. That's fine and very good for refreshing my dialect knowledge as I rarely use it now.
881 is about "Getai". Performances meant for the dead and public, glamorous costumes, oldies songs, singing and dance performances, auctions. They are only here during the 7th lunar month, the Hungry Ghost festival where the Chinese pay respects to the dead. In the show, the Papaya sisters and the Durian sisters (played by the MTV VJ twins, their Mandarin really sucks and it made it so funny) are rivals on the stage.
There are a lot of comical moments and in fact, very localized. I think the humor too, is meant for the Singaporean audience. I am surprised I'm awed by this film. It is good, beyond my expectation. However, poor Qi Yu Wu's role isn't very exciting and there isn't much I feel he could have done given the role. The ending is really sad, Little Papaya sister died... and it does touch most of us (in the cinema) as well.
Very impressive sound tracks, very original and very touching.
Rating: 4/5 (only if Qi Yu Wu has more chances to reveal his potential, might worth .5 more)
13.5.07
香港 - Eat, drink, shop (II)
我又回来了！！
I'm back!!
Now I'm going to continue my eating around HK experiment... Being too adventurous, my first lunch was spicy beef balls with fish noodle (noodle made from fish meat!) after a stick of spicy fishballs from the street hawker. Chili padi in homemade beef balls! Sounds yummy, right? It was so hot that I had to order a bottle of Coca-Cola... and everything started to go really wrong. For the whole day, I couldn't eat anything. I felt so full, right to the time I went to bed. At 2am, I couldn't hold on anymore, I just threw up! I reckon it must be indigestion... after swallowing a bottle of 保濟丸, and a second one the next afternoon, I recovered! But that morning I didn't even have the appetite for a sumptuous breakfast, so sad... but here's what we had!
This above picture is taken at Australia Dairy Co. where it is also famous for the steamed egg with milk or 炖奶 (if I write it correctly ;P), shall show you what the "egg white" version looks like! The texture feels a bit like 豆花，but carries such a fragrant sweetness that makes you yearning for more. Thank you Lezann for the kind recommendation, I also found this in a magazine review;)
Not forgetting a 菠蘿包 茶餐厅 named 中国冰室 which I found through a local magazine I bought;) The pineapple bun is heated with butter（also named "buttered pineapple bun" or 菠蘿油) shown in the picture below, you can't get enough on a carbo-deprived day! We also had breakfast there, tried their 鸳鸯冰 (an icy drink with red beans, pineapple and lotus seeds) and 杏仁蛋糊(raw egg in hot almond drink) shown in the picture below buttered pineapple bun。
We had dim sum breakfast at "Fa yuan" restaurant which is mainly patronized by the locals, thus the service wasn't exceptional as again language seems to be a barrier. Quality was so-so, thus not showing you any pictures! I think the 鼎泰豐 (which has also branches in Singapore)'s 小笼包 is much better than the ones I had over there. There must be better dim sum places around - shall look for it the next time!
Before I end my HK eating adventure here, let me name you the must-eat dessert place. Hui Lau San or 许留山 which is also recommended to me by Xiuling, I think a picture speaks louder than words... so shall end it off with my "Bird nest mango pudding".
I'm back!!
Now I'm going to continue my eating around HK experiment... Being too adventurous, my first lunch was spicy beef balls with fish noodle (noodle made from fish meat!) after a stick of spicy fishballs from the street hawker. Chili padi in homemade beef balls! Sounds yummy, right? It was so hot that I had to order a bottle of Coca-Cola... and everything started to go really wrong. For the whole day, I couldn't eat anything. I felt so full, right to the time I went to bed. At 2am, I couldn't hold on anymore, I just threw up! I reckon it must be indigestion... after swallowing a bottle of 保濟丸, and a second one the next afternoon, I recovered! But that morning I didn't even have the appetite for a sumptuous breakfast, so sad... but here's what we had!
This above picture is taken at Australia Dairy Co. where it is also famous for the steamed egg with milk or 炖奶 (if I write it correctly ;P), shall show you what the "egg white" version looks like! The texture feels a bit like 豆花，but carries such a fragrant sweetness that makes you yearning for more. Thank you Lezann for the kind recommendation, I also found this in a magazine review;)
Not forgetting a 菠蘿包 茶餐厅 named 中国冰室 which I found through a local magazine I bought;) The pineapple bun is heated with butter（also named "buttered pineapple bun" or 菠蘿油) shown in the picture below, you can't get enough on a carbo-deprived day! We also had breakfast there, tried their 鸳鸯冰 (an icy drink with red beans, pineapple and lotus seeds) and 杏仁蛋糊(raw egg in hot almond drink) shown in the picture below buttered pineapple bun。
We had dim sum breakfast at "Fa yuan" restaurant which is mainly patronized by the locals, thus the service wasn't exceptional as again language seems to be a barrier. Quality was so-so, thus not showing you any pictures! I think the 鼎泰豐 (which has also branches in Singapore)'s 小笼包 is much better than the ones I had over there. There must be better dim sum places around - shall look for it the next time!Before I end my HK eating adventure here, let me name you the must-eat dessert place. Hui Lau San or 许留山 which is also recommended to me by Xiuling, I think a picture speaks louder than words... so shall end it off with my "Bird nest mango pudding".
23.2.07
A price to pay... 0 * ; * O
I was battling ear-infection.
Unexpectedly the usual old visitor came knocking on my door again! One week after the piercing, the pain started to visit. I felt my right earlobe swelled, and the constant nagging of my mum asking me to wear her "auntie style" gold earrings didn't help. On Chinese New Year's eve, I finally gave up fighting and had substituted with the gold ring. It didn't help, it was heavy and my poor ear was burdened. I slept the pain away the whole evening, only waking up 5 minutes before the countdown to PIG's year. First day of Chinese new year, mum offered her "lighter" version gold earrings to me, I tried but it didn't ease the pain at all. At long last, I didn't give a damn anymore... I decided to put a plastic ear-stick and go with it. (I was afraid, because the last time, I had stainless steel and plastic ear-stick and the infection worsened...)
On and off, I lubricate it with the disinfecting spirit and relieve the swelling with aloe vera gel... it somehow works!! It has been 2 weeks since the piercing, 4 days since the swelling... a few more weeks to go before it heals totally, and then I can start decorating my head like the Christmas tree! LOL. Anyway, I already bought a pair of RETRO (disco ball) earrings from Accessorize.
Unexpectedly the usual old visitor came knocking on my door again! One week after the piercing, the pain started to visit. I felt my right earlobe swelled, and the constant nagging of my mum asking me to wear her "auntie style" gold earrings didn't help. On Chinese New Year's eve, I finally gave up fighting and had substituted with the gold ring. It didn't help, it was heavy and my poor ear was burdened. I slept the pain away the whole evening, only waking up 5 minutes before the countdown to PIG's year. First day of Chinese new year, mum offered her "lighter" version gold earrings to me, I tried but it didn't ease the pain at all. At long last, I didn't give a damn anymore... I decided to put a plastic ear-stick and go with it. (I was afraid, because the last time, I had stainless steel and plastic ear-stick and the infection worsened...)
On and off, I lubricate it with the disinfecting spirit and relieve the swelling with aloe vera gel... it somehow works!! It has been 2 weeks since the piercing, 4 days since the swelling... a few more weeks to go before it heals totally, and then I can start decorating my head like the Christmas tree! LOL. Anyway, I already bought a pair of RETRO (disco ball) earrings from Accessorize.
14.2.07
It's Pig Year ~( * @ * )~
For lunar Chinese New Year, the Chinese seldom do away with the barbecued pork. We call them "Bak Kwa ". It's just like Christmas comes with log cake, turkey and Christmas stollen; Chinese New Year (CNY) celebrates with Bak Kwa, pineapple tarts and Yusheng (raw fish salad). Note that I included pineapple tarts, because they're my MUST-EAT at this festive season (no matter how many KG I'll gain from it!!). And I've linked you to Fragrance brand Bak Kwa, because I bought from them for CNY as well. The above article is also about Fragrance introducing the pig-shaped Bak Kwa!
I found a very interesting site for having your 2007 chinese fortune read. That's only if you're superstitious, click here . Here is how Wikipedia defines CNY, I can't say how accurate or right they are, but it gives you a rough idea! I happened to find a more 'down-to-earth' and a closer description to how we celebrate CNY, actually written by an Ang Moh. Impressive huh. Click here , if you're also an Ang Moh curious in Chinese culture... hehe, it's an easy read I think. Here's a slight alteration of the origin of CNY.
I found a very interesting site for having your 2007 chinese fortune read. That's only if you're superstitious, click here . Here is how Wikipedia defines CNY, I can't say how accurate or right they are, but it gives you a rough idea! I happened to find a more 'down-to-earth' and a closer description to how we celebrate CNY, actually written by an Ang Moh. Impressive huh. Click here , if you're also an Ang Moh curious in Chinese culture... hehe, it's an easy read I think. Here's a slight alteration of the origin of CNY.
6.2.07
The cat gets the fish it wanted, and it's happy...
I just passed by my boss's office and he has just received a massive hamper for the Chinese New Year. It's about twice the size the largest hamper he got for X'mas, I went "WOW" as I walked by. Errrmmm, I still prefer X'mas hamper because they have fine wine and chocolate. CNY stuff can be a little more tonic (like birds' nest or something).
Anyway, it doesn't relate to my title (about the cat and fish). I bought a CNY theme mobile decor some weeks ago, it has a prosperity cat （发财猫）， in its hands is a fat fish. The happy cat has gotten his catch and is smiling with eyes resembling fine lines. So cute! I want my new year (The year of PIG) to be the same as the kitty's. So far the start of 2007 has already brought me a change of luck, I'm enjoying every single day.
I missed the last CNY, but was back for the year before... Somehow this year, I'm actively helping my parents to get all the goodies and stuff for home. I have just bought nice cushion covers during lunch, can't wait to change the "always-all-red" theme to slightly more vibrant and colorful! I've not bought clothes especially for the CNY, but am going to wear those I have bought and not yet worn (like my strawberry dress from Germany's C&A).
My little sister is turning 21, no longer I can call her "little" anymore. It reminds me that I'm about 4.5 years older than her, sigh. But it is good, she has learned a lot from me I think... haha. She has part of my western influences (she's taking French and thus I've been listening to a lot of her French music), she is slightly more independent than my other sister and well she has started to manage her money too! This Saturday, she'll hold her birthday party in advance (yes, we kiasu Singaporeans). I've sponsored a big cake which I hope it'll be decorated nicely, and going get her a small party game.
I hope everyone will have a fat catch like the cat... ~meow~
Anyway, it doesn't relate to my title (about the cat and fish). I bought a CNY theme mobile decor some weeks ago, it has a prosperity cat （发财猫）， in its hands is a fat fish. The happy cat has gotten his catch and is smiling with eyes resembling fine lines. So cute! I want my new year (The year of PIG) to be the same as the kitty's. So far the start of 2007 has already brought me a change of luck, I'm enjoying every single day.
I missed the last CNY, but was back for the year before... Somehow this year, I'm actively helping my parents to get all the goodies and stuff for home. I have just bought nice cushion covers during lunch, can't wait to change the "always-all-red" theme to slightly more vibrant and colorful! I've not bought clothes especially for the CNY, but am going to wear those I have bought and not yet worn (like my strawberry dress from Germany's C&A).My little sister is turning 21, no longer I can call her "little" anymore. It reminds me that I'm about 4.5 years older than her, sigh. But it is good, she has learned a lot from me I think... haha. She has part of my western influences (she's taking French and thus I've been listening to a lot of her French music), she is slightly more independent than my other sister and well she has started to manage her money too! This Saturday, she'll hold her birthday party in advance (yes, we kiasu Singaporeans). I've sponsored a big cake which I hope it'll be decorated nicely, and going get her a small party game.
I hope everyone will have a fat catch like the cat... ~meow~
19.1.07
姐妹党
今天我又想写华语啦！可是有一点累，脑筋不能动得太快，可能我会用点英语。。。不要太介意啊
午餐时间，第一次我的姐妹（姐姐和妹妹）来和我汇合，我们到Marina Square的“包今天”also called Bao Today 吃点心！妹也在Cityhall上班，所以常能看到她。肚子不停地咕噜咕噜叫，我的姐妹们真没有时间观念，一个比一个迟！还好客栈没满，所以坐下就能点菜了！ 是太饿的关系吗，还是食物真的那么好吃呢？我们点了：
Fish Roe and Pork "Shao Mao"
Prawn Dumplings
Glutinous Rice in Lotus Leaf
Pan Fried Radish Cake
Black Sesame Buns
Paper-wrapped Chicken
Home-made Barley & House Special Sour Plum Juice
I love theeeeeee Sesame Buns so much! 所以呢，我就买了多两个回去吃！肥肥肥！
午餐时间，第一次我的姐妹（姐姐和妹妹）来和我汇合，我们到Marina Square的“包今天”also called Bao Today 吃点心！妹也在Cityhall上班，所以常能看到她。肚子不停地咕噜咕噜叫，我的姐妹们真没有时间观念，一个比一个迟！还好客栈没满，所以坐下就能点菜了！ 是太饿的关系吗，还是食物真的那么好吃呢？我们点了：
Fish Roe and Pork "Shao Mao"
Prawn Dumplings
Glutinous Rice in Lotus Leaf
Pan Fried Radish Cake
Black Sesame Buns
Paper-wrapped Chicken
Home-made Barley & House Special Sour Plum Juice
I love theeeeeee Sesame Buns so much! 所以呢，我就买了多两个回去吃！肥肥肥！
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