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 festival. Show all posts
Showing posts with label festival. 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 :)
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!!!
9.9.10
Selamat Hari Raya
My dad views every man I go out with as a suspect for potential boyfriend! Thanks Dad, how trusting!!? Parents, they just can't wait to see their children get married off, isn't it?
I met up with Yus to check out Geylang Serai for Hari Raya festive mood... It was the first time in my life to visit the place during Ramandan. I feel like a mountain tortoise... like I have missed out all the vibes that was going on there in the past. Like Yus said, it's not the same anymore. The Malay Village is as quiet as mouse, with most people at the tiny food court and the food prices are not cheaper than elsewhere. I also didn't expect all the shopping to be in the form of local bazaar, local term we call it pasar malam. So everything almost were under the white tents... but we also explored a few malls and food places around Joo Chiat road. I especially like the 2nd storey hawker where there was a great variety of food and all halal I supposed. The lighting was pretty at night too and we had the colorful drinks which looked quite poisoned with artificial colorings. I chose the lime juice, because it was the most normal looking!! I also had my favourite deep fried banana balls, which must be giving me my dose of pimples outbreak now :( Then I also had the S$5 henna drawing on my hand, I love it :)
It was nice catching up after so long... and we talked about my Europe plan next year! Well, I think there's definitely lots of homework to be done!! Yus, I hope you're up for it and thanks for introducing me the food I never tried before!
I met up with Yus to check out Geylang Serai for Hari Raya festive mood... It was the first time in my life to visit the place during Ramandan. I feel like a mountain tortoise... like I have missed out all the vibes that was going on there in the past. Like Yus said, it's not the same anymore. The Malay Village is as quiet as mouse, with most people at the tiny food court and the food prices are not cheaper than elsewhere. I also didn't expect all the shopping to be in the form of local bazaar, local term we call it pasar malam. So everything almost were under the white tents... but we also explored a few malls and food places around Joo Chiat road. I especially like the 2nd storey hawker where there was a great variety of food and all halal I supposed. The lighting was pretty at night too and we had the colorful drinks which looked quite poisoned with artificial colorings. I chose the lime juice, because it was the most normal looking!! I also had my favourite deep fried banana balls, which must be giving me my dose of pimples outbreak now :( Then I also had the S$5 henna drawing on my hand, I love it :)
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| Joo Chiat Road |
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| The colorful poisons |
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| My henna drawing |
It was nice catching up after so long... and we talked about my Europe plan next year! Well, I think there's definitely lots of homework to be done!! Yus, I hope you're up for it and thanks for introducing me the food I never tried before!
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!
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.1.11.08
Happy Halloween, Pumpkin-Peeps.
Strange... I just approved a comment and it didn't appear, wonder where did it go... But I'm pretty sure it's written by Alex, you monster! Ha ha ha. Probably something a year ago huh... well, whatever since I can't find which post is it now.
I know I have been missing in action for a bit, which I really didn't mean to... But things slipped off your mind, sometimes it's a good thing in fact. It's already November, a day after Halloween... How did you guys celebrate it??? I envy those whom are able to dress up and make-up themselves like some" ghostly thingee", but there is just not much atmosphere here and friends aren't up for it - Maybe one day. One day, I will be in town where all the crazy people will put fake blood on their faces. Or maybe have some fun action like Joy's - the pumpkin carving...!
I know I have been missing in action for a bit, which I really didn't mean to... But things slipped off your mind, sometimes it's a good thing in fact. It's already November, a day after Halloween... How did you guys celebrate it??? I envy those whom are able to dress up and make-up themselves like some" ghostly thingee", but there is just not much atmosphere here and friends aren't up for it - Maybe one day. One day, I will be in town where all the crazy people will put fake blood on their faces. Or maybe have some fun action like Joy's - the pumpkin carving...!
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
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)
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~
6.10.06
Celebrate with me lah!
Copyright belongs to The Kedou Kids Pod
There comes my Singlish again - see??
Anyway this year, due to the double "7th month" in our chinese calendar, the Mid-Autumn festival (or the Singaporeans like to call it the "Lantern or Mooncake festival" is delayed till a day before my birthday. So everyone seems to be celebrating it with me!
I love a lot of our chinese festivals, especially when it meant that food is accompanying them. Like the Chinese new year & "Ba Kua" (barbequed meat), Dragon boat with rice dumpling, Mid-Autumn with mooncakes and Winter Solstice festival with "tang yuan" (glutinous rice flour balls). Okay, back to our topic before I get further and further (when it comes to food... oh no...).
Thank you my friends for the early greetings... some of whom I did not expect from. Not a lot of people know of my birthday and especially me being another woman whom rather not reveal my age unless required! Low profile birthday, lol, in fact I didn't hold celebration most of the time... only when I was much younger, my parents would buy me a cake and do a small party at my grandma's. All the kids like me would be excited over it...
BS, thanks for the book (maybe it will come in handy in my next travel trip;)); thanks to my sisters for forking out/chipping in for the things I like (yes, that was how Tommy came about 2 years ago - my sister mailed it to London!); thanks to my girlies too!
For now, I shall sign off wishing everyone a happy time during this lantern/ mooncake/ Mid-Autumn festival!! Tip: Drink some chinese tea (especially green tea) to get off the excessive oil!! Sigh, time to get fat, lit lanterns, burn candles... and light up my corridor!!
Yea, don't remind me, I know I'm another year older... tomorrow!!
P/S: Singapore Pools is also celebrating with its $5 million prize money for Mid-Autumn's TOTO tonight!! :))))
31.1.06
What I really miss about CNY @ home
Pineapple tarts - especially the ones made by my auntie!!! Getting dressed and groomed for house-visiting - which I normally do not put so much make-up even for shopping or work!! Eating the chilli "Ba Gua" - BBQ pork/chicken slices... mmmmm!! Chance to drink lot of soft drinks and chocolate without feeling guilty. Steamboat for reunion dinner!! Getting "Ang pao" (Red packet) is not really something I look forward, since it always doesn't accumulate to that much anyway... but I love the chance to see everyone else. Uncles, aunties, grandma, cousins... which I do not often get to! Laze and be lazy, waiting for people to hand me an "Ang pao"... ha, this one I certainly do not miss. I think it really bores me to death!!
30.8.05
Nottinghill crazy
YES!!! This year's festival is much better than the last...
Reasons being:
1. Weather is superb - sunny, unlike the drizzle the year before.
2. Crazy companions. This time I didn't go alone, I have at least 2 friends ;)
3. Nok, my Thai friend lives in Nottinghill (off the carnival route), we can always go back up for a tea, and rest.
4. We got freebies from the carnival - even though they aren't really anything useful, they are something worth to preserve the memory.
5. Great music, great crowd, nice food and most importantly it didn't take us ages to get home!!! I'm surprised it's pretty orderly.
6. I managed to snap lot of beautiful close-up photographs *.*
15.8.05
Feeling disturbed
I had a very good sleep which I considered it very sound, except for the fact that I had a very bad dream with it. It was very disturbing, and it made me even wearier when I woke up - later than usual!! I dreamt about my work contract being terminated suddenly and the company has hired an agency instead to do up the design. I haven't been lazy, how could them do that!! So scary dream:((
It must be all the stress and the really busy weekend, I can't even find time for myself to breathe properly - relax.
Friday to Saturday was lot of traveling on the buses; Sunday was a good day to The London Mela festival. Good weekends are always packed with meaningful activities like these, but they wear me out easily... The weekend was wonderful, with the exception of the very temperamental weather. The coming one, I'm off to Ireland all by myself - how exciting!! I hope I don't get nervous breakdown :))) **Relax a bit, take it easy**
I've been spending a bit of £££ again on days out like this... oh man! Curb it, curb it, curb it....
22.6.04
吃粽子
When I'm writing this, I just eaten a rice dumpling made by my mum. Its the first time she tried cooking them, so I have to understand why it's a little too sticky, a little too hard, a little too chewy but made with love...
It's Dragon Boat Festival today
It's Dragon Boat Festival today
...(5th day of the 5th Lunar month)...
I was considering of putting up the legend behind it on here but again, I'll have to do that for every festival I mention again. So... here is a good link containing the summaries of the common chinese festivals celebrated locally.
p.s: my blog title says "eat rice dumpling" in mandarin
21.1.04
CNY eve, nerr..vous me
Its half-day work today, 4 hours of the usual 8.
Manager was announcing we can leave at 1pm today, provided we came in at 9am and get the work done. I couldn't care less, my usual day starts at 10.30am. So there I am, he's an arrrse...hole anyway, why should I heed! The most horrifying thing I seen this morning must be his face - black face. No, I'm not lying. Black. Yes. Charcoal.
I went over to mr. idol's office for a discussion about the job. Right now, it sounds really positive I might get it. *fingers crossed* He's asking me to speak to him again next week about the final decision from the company. Truthfully, I'd like to get a chance to work under him; but in all honesty, if it doesn't work out, bumming around and organizing my big trip sound perfect as well.
I guess I was a little nervous in his office, or maybe my pain in the shoulder is subconsciously affecting my nervous system! I haven't had an idea why I kept talking off the topic! Argh. It's still aching, god's sake, I want a painless chinese new year!!
To the Chinese especially
Happy Chinese New Year
Happy Chinese New Year
To everyone
Welcome to the Year of Monkey 2004
May all of you have a prosperous year ahead!!!
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