The past week I've lived in a small world made up of family and friends, and it was a happy time filled with simple but meaningful activities.
I was browsing the headlines in the world updates today when I saw the articles on the massacre of a family in California by none other than a 'santa', who so happened was someone known to the family. A man, reportedly a nice church-going guy, dressed up as a Santa, showed up at his ex-wife's place and just randomly opened fire at people who were attending a christmas party there. He killed his ex-wife, her parents, her brothers and their wives, and a nephew, while injured a few others including a little girl who opened the door for him because she was excited to see Santa.
That is sad. I was shocked. I have problems but now they looked small, even tiny, when compared to what happened there and many other places. I have difficulties but what are bills compared to violence and death.
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Sunday, December 28, 2008
first christmas eve
This year promised to be a different year. It's my first christmas at my new place and I decided to do an at-home christmas. My family came, including my parents, SIL and my two cute nephews. Brothers were still working on xmas eve. By the time they reached my place, it was almost time for lunch. But before that, they were so excited to see the tree and gifts, we had to do the gift-stuff first. We had lunch by the cafe at my place, then, proceed to Queensbay mall. Games for the kids and shopping for the adults. I had to get a gift for the get-together with PS and PL on the 26th. I decided to go with a photo frame. And a nice one too!
The kids were ofcourse excited about going into the pool. After a few rounds of games, we went back and all of us quickly changed into our suits and jumped into the water.
By night-time, I was so tired I slept soundly that night and even slept through the very loud fireworks at midnight.
The kids were ofcourse excited about going into the pool. After a few rounds of games, we went back and all of us quickly changed into our suits and jumped into the water.
By night-time, I was so tired I slept soundly that night and even slept through the very loud fireworks at midnight.
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
Simon Baker, I heart u
I'm revisiting my adolescent... I would like to shout from the highest peak, Simon Baker (or rather the character he plays in The Guardian, Channel 701, 7pm, daily), I lurve you! He is really gorgeous. and he is nice (in the TV show). and cool.
That's all... Haha...
That's all... Haha...
Last minute luck
I have not had much luck playing scrable with Alvin. Although I could be leading in terms of scores throughout the game, he would usually (100% so far) come up with a Bingo almost towards the end of the game. And it would be too late for me to try to catch up. I hated that. Ofcourse I did that plenty of times to other people. But I've not managed to do any of it during games with Alvin!
Yeah, that's so last-minute luck! I guess he is just good, also.
Yeah, that's so last-minute luck! I guess he is just good, also.
Monday, December 22, 2008
Alone, in darkness
Well, the situation was not as morbid as the title suggests. It's just that the darkness was due to the power being cut which was due to the work being performed on the transformer. And alone was because the day was not a working day for almost everybody else but me. But ofcourse, I had asked to come to work because I just have too many on my desk. Call me dedicated, or whatever.
I had to remind myself that it was day time and it was bright outside. Actually only rooms along my corridor were affected. If I were to stand at the corridor, I would see light at the end. And it was not exactly pitch black. Some rooms had lights. My room had no light but the power to my equipments were all there. That's why I was there anyways.
When the power was first shut off, I found out that I couldn't open my door and was locked in! It was one of those kind of door with an automated security lock. That gave me a few minutes of panic. Then, I calmed down. The phone was still working. All I had to do was call the chargeman. They would know what to do. True enough, they were working on the temporary power supply. And a few minutes after my call, the facilities guys came and with a screwdriver, did something to the door so that it could be opened. How useful a screwdriver is! Hoorah!
With the being-trapped feeling gone, I kinda like the quiet...
I had to remind myself that it was day time and it was bright outside. Actually only rooms along my corridor were affected. If I were to stand at the corridor, I would see light at the end. And it was not exactly pitch black. Some rooms had lights. My room had no light but the power to my equipments were all there. That's why I was there anyways.
When the power was first shut off, I found out that I couldn't open my door and was locked in! It was one of those kind of door with an automated security lock. That gave me a few minutes of panic. Then, I calmed down. The phone was still working. All I had to do was call the chargeman. They would know what to do. True enough, they were working on the temporary power supply. And a few minutes after my call, the facilities guys came and with a screwdriver, did something to the door so that it could be opened. How useful a screwdriver is! Hoorah!
With the being-trapped feeling gone, I kinda like the quiet...
Sunday, December 21, 2008
He's just not that into you
Hmmm... by a stroke of fate, the book landed in my hands. Actually, I was to act as a messenger carrying this book from a friend for another friend. I've been curious about this book for some time now, although had not been motivated enough to actually purchase the book. As the critics said, I don't need a book to tell me when a guy doesn't like me THAT much.
However, since it was in my possession, and it wasn't that thick, I started reading it and was 3 quarters way through it by the time another friend came to pick us up for lunch.
My two-cent on this issue:
1. Even if a guy is into you now, he can get not-into-you some time in the future. There's just NO CERTAINTY.
2. Universally, I think humans want the same thing, but do they go about getting them the same way? I think not. The book is SO 'New York-ish'. We need a book on 'Penang-ish'. (How I know it's New York? Come on, SATC was set in New York! And these guys were the writers!)
However, one thing is true, if the guy is not into you, you would not be happy in the relationship... and vice versa, if you are not into the guy, you would not be happy in the relationship...
p/s: Not too sure about the 'not-asking-the-guy-out-until-he-asks-you', although I actually do practice that - not that it's doing me any good. That smack a lot of male supremacy and power to the man. But then again, some men are just into that. It must be the remnance of the cave-men instinct. BUT are ALL men that way?
However, since it was in my possession, and it wasn't that thick, I started reading it and was 3 quarters way through it by the time another friend came to pick us up for lunch.
My two-cent on this issue:
1. Even if a guy is into you now, he can get not-into-you some time in the future. There's just NO CERTAINTY.
2. Universally, I think humans want the same thing, but do they go about getting them the same way? I think not. The book is SO 'New York-ish'. We need a book on 'Penang-ish'. (How I know it's New York? Come on, SATC was set in New York! And these guys were the writers!)
However, one thing is true, if the guy is not into you, you would not be happy in the relationship... and vice versa, if you are not into the guy, you would not be happy in the relationship...
p/s: Not too sure about the 'not-asking-the-guy-out-until-he-asks-you', although I actually do practice that - not that it's doing me any good. That smack a lot of male supremacy and power to the man. But then again, some men are just into that. It must be the remnance of the cave-men instinct. BUT are ALL men that way?
Saturday, December 20, 2008
Mamma Mia! The musical.
I was excited, really excited for this since I bought the tickets. Maybe all the excitement drove up my expectation way high. I loved the movie so so much. It had been a long time since a movie excited me so.
The first solo of the musical started low. The movie one was better. But as the show went on, Sophie redeemed herself. It's not fair that the 'mom' would be compared to Meryl Streep since Meryl Streep's performance is a tough act to top. Although I have not been a Meryl Streep fan, I loved her in Mamma Mia, the movie.
The set impressed me at first, but then it started to bore me after the first hour.
Other than Sophie and the Mom, the voices of others didn't really impress me. Tanya at the beach was really sad!
After watching the musical and the movie, I thought the movie was cleverly adapted and done. Bravo to the screenwriter(s)!
ALthough all that, the ending encore performances of the stage show were super!! I enjoyed that the most (haha) and the song "our last summer". I still love that song, although the setting in the movie is nicer.
p/s (23/12/08): apparently another reviewer agreed with me on some points regarding the stage show. He also raised the points on the stage setting and Tanya's singing...
http://www.rochester-citynews.com/entertainment/stage/2008/12/THEATER-REVIEW-RBTLs-Mamma-Mia
The first solo of the musical started low. The movie one was better. But as the show went on, Sophie redeemed herself. It's not fair that the 'mom' would be compared to Meryl Streep since Meryl Streep's performance is a tough act to top. Although I have not been a Meryl Streep fan, I loved her in Mamma Mia, the movie.
The set impressed me at first, but then it started to bore me after the first hour.
Other than Sophie and the Mom, the voices of others didn't really impress me. Tanya at the beach was really sad!
After watching the musical and the movie, I thought the movie was cleverly adapted and done. Bravo to the screenwriter(s)!
ALthough all that, the ending encore performances of the stage show were super!! I enjoyed that the most (haha) and the song "our last summer". I still love that song, although the setting in the movie is nicer.
p/s (23/12/08): apparently another reviewer agreed with me on some points regarding the stage show. He also raised the points on the stage setting and Tanya's singing...
http://www.rochester-citynews.com/entertainment/stage/2008/12/THEATER-REVIEW-RBTLs-Mamma-Mia
Friday, December 19, 2008
The day YP came to town...
I haven't seen friend YP for a while. Say a few years, except for facebook. It looked like he had a ball of a life travelling all over. And he has a new job too! For the past 2 months. And a new car too, for the past 2 years. All this I found out on Friday night.
Friday evening, after dinner with LP and CW, I went home looking forward to pack for my whirlwind trip on Saturday and Sunday. As I was locking up my doors, my phone rang. It was a surprise to see CA calling (caller ID). He hasn't called me for like, ages. And yes, the news was that YP was coming to town! [A bit like Santa coz he did bring a big melon for me from Cameron. Although I still expect a house warming gift that he still owes me...] And that, he would like to meet us for supper. My answer was OK, since if I didn't see him that night, I wouldn't be seeing him for another few years at the very least (based on our track record).
After a couple of hours, YP finally reached the island and then, he said that he would like to visit my house and check out my xmas tree... So no supper for me!
YP came and he looked the same as he did many years ago. Still as loopy as ever. (Although he is a m.a.n.a.g.e.r now). He commented that although my house looks nice, it doesn't seem like 'me'. Hmmm... and it looks like a bar. [BC's response:??] And that my furniture does not match my walls. [BC's response: haha] Funny guy!
It used to bother me quite a bit that people think they know my taste or 'me' better than 'moi', or that they have some unpleasant comments about my place. My immediate mental reaction would be that those commentss or statements are reflections of myself. After settling in for more than two months now, I'm able to look at it more impersonally, take it less personally, and now, those comments bothered me less.
I don't know why people would make statements that make other people uncomfortable for no particularly beneficial purpose. And since it is not beneficial, I am able to just let it slide...
This is when the lessons from the Abhayarajakumara Sutta come in handy... and for the record, I enjoyed YP's visit tremendously. It's fun to catch up and crack up over silly stuff from yesteryears...
Friday evening, after dinner with LP and CW, I went home looking forward to pack for my whirlwind trip on Saturday and Sunday. As I was locking up my doors, my phone rang. It was a surprise to see CA calling (caller ID). He hasn't called me for like, ages. And yes, the news was that YP was coming to town! [A bit like Santa coz he did bring a big melon for me from Cameron. Although I still expect a house warming gift that he still owes me...] And that, he would like to meet us for supper. My answer was OK, since if I didn't see him that night, I wouldn't be seeing him for another few years at the very least (based on our track record).
After a couple of hours, YP finally reached the island and then, he said that he would like to visit my house and check out my xmas tree... So no supper for me!
YP came and he looked the same as he did many years ago. Still as loopy as ever. (Although he is a m.a.n.a.g.e.r now). He commented that although my house looks nice, it doesn't seem like 'me'. Hmmm... and it looks like a bar. [BC's response:??] And that my furniture does not match my walls. [BC's response: haha] Funny guy!
It used to bother me quite a bit that people think they know my taste or 'me' better than 'moi', or that they have some unpleasant comments about my place. My immediate mental reaction would be that those commentss or statements are reflections of myself. After settling in for more than two months now, I'm able to look at it more impersonally, take it less personally, and now, those comments bothered me less.
I don't know why people would make statements that make other people uncomfortable for no particularly beneficial purpose. And since it is not beneficial, I am able to just let it slide...
This is when the lessons from the Abhayarajakumara Sutta come in handy... and for the record, I enjoyed YP's visit tremendously. It's fun to catch up and crack up over silly stuff from yesteryears...
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
Putting up My First Christmas Tree
O Yay! I have a tree! Not a live one, but it blinks and sparkles.
December the 15th is D Day for putting up a Christmas Tree. It was still in pieces inside the box. LP came to help me with the tree and to share the joy with me. Ofcourse she came for a swim too, but the weather put paid to that idea. It rained. Heavily. So, we had to do something indoor. Which is good because the second part of the plan for the night IS the tree.
After assembling and bending the branches to places that we think they should go, we thought it would be difficult to get the lights on. But we were wrong. It was relatively easy, although I still need an extension cord to make it work better!
So, we had the lights and then the decors went up. I especially love the position of the two angels!
In the end, the tree is still a bit bare, but it's my first year! I'll improve...
December the 15th is D Day for putting up a Christmas Tree. It was still in pieces inside the box. LP came to help me with the tree and to share the joy with me. Ofcourse she came for a swim too, but the weather put paid to that idea. It rained. Heavily. So, we had to do something indoor. Which is good because the second part of the plan for the night IS the tree.
After assembling and bending the branches to places that we think they should go, we thought it would be difficult to get the lights on. But we were wrong. It was relatively easy, although I still need an extension cord to make it work better!
So, we had the lights and then the decors went up. I especially love the position of the two angels!
In the end, the tree is still a bit bare, but it's my first year! I'll improve...
Monday, December 15, 2008
Sales! Sales!
Last Thursday, I decided that I haven't been shopping with my parents for some time now. I haven't serviced my car for some time now. I haven't been home to my parents' place for some time also. And enough of procrastination! I would do all that on Saturday. And it is the season of sales!
Saturday morning, we started the day early by going to the breakfast place that we used to go every weekend. The fried bee hoon aunty had commented to my mom just the week before that we've been absent for some time. It's still as yummy as ever, even though she has left the fish balls out these days. After breakfast, I made my way to the workshop to get my car serviced. And then, my little nephew came to the house to visit - o how I missed him. We had lunch at home then, my parents, my uncle (who's visiting from KL) and I were off to Jusco at BM for a shopping day! Yay!
It was a superb and good day at the mall. My mom got something. My dad got something. My uncle got something. I got lots. I bought another comforter set, two table fans and one of those floating device for swimming! O yeah!
The comforter was silk (on one side) and it's only RM139. I got the 16" dark red Elba fan for RM79 each. I think they are good prices!
What a day!
Saturday morning, we started the day early by going to the breakfast place that we used to go every weekend. The fried bee hoon aunty had commented to my mom just the week before that we've been absent for some time. It's still as yummy as ever, even though she has left the fish balls out these days. After breakfast, I made my way to the workshop to get my car serviced. And then, my little nephew came to the house to visit - o how I missed him. We had lunch at home then, my parents, my uncle (who's visiting from KL) and I were off to Jusco at BM for a shopping day! Yay!
It was a superb and good day at the mall. My mom got something. My dad got something. My uncle got something. I got lots. I bought another comforter set, two table fans and one of those floating device for swimming! O yeah!
The comforter was silk (on one side) and it's only RM139. I got the 16" dark red Elba fan for RM79 each. I think they are good prices!
What a day!
Friday, December 12, 2008
The season of joyful tidings is upon us
I think this is the year that I will re-gain the joy of christmas. It is a good time (as good as any) to start. A good time to be happy. I went through the first of december without fun-fare. It was uneventful. It was a Monday, need I say more.
The first thought that came to me (as an effort to create a happy and festive time) is that I need a tree. I have had good responses to a posting on this on my facebook. Friends have given good suggestions and support. Next, I looked around for a tree. My cousin, who herself, has a 6-ft tree gave me some ideas on what I should be looking for. As of yesterday, I was still dragging my feet and couldn't decide which tree to get and a bit worried that I might be too late!
I had dinner with my best friend last night. A belated birthday treat for him, having missed his birthday because I was in Europe at the time. While trying to catch up on all the things that have been going on in our lives since the last time we met, I just mentioned that I thought of getting a christmas tree! And boom, we paid the bill, got out of the restaurant (luckily we were done eating by then) and went to the department store. He was as excited as me. I chose a 5-ft tree which is reasonably priced (to me) and got the lights and decorations! The sales person there was so helpful I may have bought more that I planned. I'm on my way to have lights and colors in my living room!!
Next, putting up the tree...
The first thought that came to me (as an effort to create a happy and festive time) is that I need a tree. I have had good responses to a posting on this on my facebook. Friends have given good suggestions and support. Next, I looked around for a tree. My cousin, who herself, has a 6-ft tree gave me some ideas on what I should be looking for. As of yesterday, I was still dragging my feet and couldn't decide which tree to get and a bit worried that I might be too late!
I had dinner with my best friend last night. A belated birthday treat for him, having missed his birthday because I was in Europe at the time. While trying to catch up on all the things that have been going on in our lives since the last time we met, I just mentioned that I thought of getting a christmas tree! And boom, we paid the bill, got out of the restaurant (luckily we were done eating by then) and went to the department store. He was as excited as me. I chose a 5-ft tree which is reasonably priced (to me) and got the lights and decorations! The sales person there was so helpful I may have bought more that I planned. I'm on my way to have lights and colors in my living room!!
Next, putting up the tree...
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
The road less travelled, the high road...
I remember one occassion when I was a kid, still in primary school, still attending piano classes, it was that time of the year to choose a piece for the exams. My piano teacher played the two pieces that we got to choose from every year. Both didn't sound all that good to me. One slow and full of expression. Another one, full of twists. After she finished playing, she turned to me and asked if I wanted to choose the easier one or the tougher one. Duh! She obviously did not know me. Ofcourse I would choose the tougher one. Not that I'm all that good at playing. I just love a challenge. I just love the more difficult things in life... But ofcourse I love things that come easily to me. But if I was asked, I would more often than not choose the difficult ones...
Sigh!
And given a choice again, I would do them all over, without doubt.
Sigh!
And given a choice again, I would do them all over, without doubt.
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
Breaking Dawn (Twilight Series #4)
I was kind of sad that I finished the book because I just found out that this is the last book for this series. I had all the while thought that there would be five books.
The ending was a happily-ever-after so the book is good for me. But there may be a book on Jacob and Nessie. That's certainly how it looked like to me.
The ending was a happily-ever-after so the book is good for me. But there may be a book on Jacob and Nessie. That's certainly how it looked like to me.
Monday, December 8, 2008
The Heart Calls
There is a story in the newspaper today of a woman who gave away RM100,000 to a man who claimed that he is the living Buddha. The reason she gave away the money was her son who were claimed by the 'living Buddha' as having a medical condition. Out of her very strong maternal love, she did whatever was asked by the guy to save her son.
The call of the heart is strong. Strong enough that it could overwhelm logic and reason.
Would a true living Buddha who has overcome greed, hatred and delusion, who is the embodiment of wisdom and compassion, ever ask for money if there were anything that he could do to alleviate the suffering of another?
Sometimes in life, after exhausting all effort, physical or otherwise, there is just nothing that we could do to make things right, to fix things up. Then, it is time for the hard practice of equanimity & acceptance.
The call of the heart is strong. Strong enough that it could overwhelm logic and reason.
Would a true living Buddha who has overcome greed, hatred and delusion, who is the embodiment of wisdom and compassion, ever ask for money if there were anything that he could do to alleviate the suffering of another?
Sometimes in life, after exhausting all effort, physical or otherwise, there is just nothing that we could do to make things right, to fix things up. Then, it is time for the hard practice of equanimity & acceptance.
Sunday, December 7, 2008
Wonderful Saturday
What a great day Saturday was! The day started with a very down to earth breakfast of Hokkien Mee for me with two other great gal-pals. After which, we proceed to my place for our planned swim. When we reached SV, the aunts n uncle were already there. And I got my first xmas gift for the year - ehem, which could be the only xmas gift for this year. I was excited that it was a very fancy, red high heel door stopper! I had wanted to get fancy door stopper but could not find any in Penang, so far. And ofcourse, there were gifts from their Langkawi trip. It was fun. After all that, my pals and I went down to the pool and had a really productive session. One of the outcome I hope is to motivate our other friend to want to learn how to swim...
Mom had brought with her lots of stuff and she, along with the aunts proceed to prepare lunch for the whole bunch.
TS had set her heart on eating at Japin, so, after the swim we went off to QB for lunch and shopping! Actually it was Sunday that we discovered we've been calling the cafe by the wrong name. We called it Jopin!
The shopping was incredible althought it started real slow and disappointing as we did not find the sales to be any better than normal. Thankfully, it ended as the greatest day at the mall. I've forgotten how fun 'real' shopping could be.
Mom had brought with her lots of stuff and she, along with the aunts proceed to prepare lunch for the whole bunch.
TS had set her heart on eating at Japin, so, after the swim we went off to QB for lunch and shopping! Actually it was Sunday that we discovered we've been calling the cafe by the wrong name. We called it Jopin!
The shopping was incredible althought it started real slow and disappointing as we did not find the sales to be any better than normal. Thankfully, it ended as the greatest day at the mall. I've forgotten how fun 'real' shopping could be.
Friday, December 5, 2008
Half way through Breaking Dawn
Breaking Dawn is the 4th book in the Twilight series. And it is the thickest one that I've encountered so far. At 500+ pages, it is equivalent to the thickness of 2 of the previous books. There are 3 books in this one book called Breaking Dawn. Book 1 is centered on Bella. Book 2 is on Jacob. And book 3 is back to Bella.
I've gone up to Book 2 and a few pages into Book 3.
More of the book later...
I've gone up to Book 2 and a few pages into Book 3.
More of the book later...
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
Fit as a Fiddle
So not. I came back from a squash session totally deflated. And after playing dismally for 3 games, only. Not even a match. I told my squash mates, that I felt depressed after each game. I couldn't swing properly, and the swings just didn't go smoothly. Leg movements were lethargic! And slow. Frustrating.
This kinda motivate me to keep Tuesdays and Fridays in mind for squash. I should atleast go back to the position where I enjoy playing squash. Sigh!
This kinda motivate me to keep Tuesdays and Fridays in mind for squash. I should atleast go back to the position where I enjoy playing squash. Sigh!
1 December 2008
The first day of the month started on a low. I'm feeling ill at ease, not comfortable, not composed, depressed and down. Just sad. I'm feeling like the tears could start at any time.
Sad things do that to me. Sad movies do that to me. Sad books do that to me. People doing bad things to other people or themselves do that to me. Or bad things happening to people I know do that to me.
Ofcourse I never advertised this but I cried watching sad movies, every time. And the part that I always say out loud is that I only watch 'happy' movies. That's why.
Equanimity is such a priceless state. I failed miserably to achieve it, today.
Since today is a low. I hope the month will only get better...
Sad things do that to me. Sad movies do that to me. Sad books do that to me. People doing bad things to other people or themselves do that to me. Or bad things happening to people I know do that to me.
Ofcourse I never advertised this but I cried watching sad movies, every time. And the part that I always say out loud is that I only watch 'happy' movies. That's why.
Equanimity is such a priceless state. I failed miserably to achieve it, today.
Since today is a low. I hope the month will only get better...
Eclipse (Twilight Series #3)
Oh yes, I have finished Eclipse. I couldn't wait. I couldn't put it down. Although it took me longer that I normally do for a book of that thickness. I had to do a host of other stuff in between.
Yes, we're back on track. This is a much more enjoyable book that the 2nd one. I'm feeling buoyant again. No spoilers. I know there are still a lot of people out there who have not read this. The flow and smoothness of the plot really got to me. I like that SM tried to reconcile the myths and the reality in the book.
This is a really good teen-lit. Coz I constantly forgot that they are not even 19. Ofcourse Edward is forever 17. Those old-fashion values of his is really adorable.
Looking forward to #4.
Yes, we're back on track. This is a much more enjoyable book that the 2nd one. I'm feeling buoyant again. No spoilers. I know there are still a lot of people out there who have not read this. The flow and smoothness of the plot really got to me. I like that SM tried to reconcile the myths and the reality in the book.
This is a really good teen-lit. Coz I constantly forgot that they are not even 19. Ofcourse Edward is forever 17. Those old-fashion values of his is really adorable.
Looking forward to #4.
Monday, December 1, 2008
What a feeling?
Chuck (for those of you who doesn't know, it's a TV series) was in Stanford Uni last weekend. As the camera panned across the campus, I felt nostalgic. Although I didn't go to school there, I was there for a very short campus tour.
Everytime I see a place that I've been to on TV or in a movie, something in me moves. Recently, a few shows shot in Rome, Florence, Venice & Vienna were shown, and watching them, I felt something, although I couldn't explain what it is I felt exactly. I especially like shows/books based in San Francisco.
Ha ha, silly me and my sentimentality...
Everytime I see a place that I've been to on TV or in a movie, something in me moves. Recently, a few shows shot in Rome, Florence, Venice & Vienna were shown, and watching them, I felt something, although I couldn't explain what it is I felt exactly. I especially like shows/books based in San Francisco.
Ha ha, silly me and my sentimentality...
New Moon
After finishing Twilight, I became very obsessed with what would come next for Bella and Edward. It seems that the book ended on a high note (the way that I like).
New Moon, however, was three-quarter a disappointment. I'm not going to spoil too much for those who haven't read the book, I hope. But heart-break for more than half a book, is no good for the reader. It plunged me into an abyss that I didn't want to remember. I almost didn't finish. But after re-reading the synopsis, I persevered.
This book is no good for those who just broke up. It might give you hope that the person who left you would return. In real life, they rarely do. Just go on with live... Next phase.
Ps: Again, Italy is the location chosen for a scene in the story....
New Moon, however, was three-quarter a disappointment. I'm not going to spoil too much for those who haven't read the book, I hope. But heart-break for more than half a book, is no good for the reader. It plunged me into an abyss that I didn't want to remember. I almost didn't finish. But after re-reading the synopsis, I persevered.
This book is no good for those who just broke up. It might give you hope that the person who left you would return. In real life, they rarely do. Just go on with live... Next phase.
Ps: Again, Italy is the location chosen for a scene in the story....
Twilight
The movie, was so-so. I left the theatre wondering why it did so well in the box office chart. The first half of the movie was weird. The acting was stilted. The relationship development was not well presented. The second half of the movie was better, after the relationship started.
After the movie, I decided not to get the book.
The book, was amazing. After reading the book, I understood why the movie did so well. Since I'm a die-hard romantic (on the inside), I loved the book. The details that were missing from the movie were finally explained - why she acted the way she did and he acted the way he did. And why Dr Cullen and his wife were so young looking yet has 5 grown up children, although adopted. The character development of all the Cullens' kids was well done.
Ofcourse a lot of things in the book were adapted. A lot of things were changed. Somehow, Bella didn't seem that wimpy in the movie.
On to New Moon... I couldn't stop. I wanted to know.
After the movie, I decided not to get the book.
The book, was amazing. After reading the book, I understood why the movie did so well. Since I'm a die-hard romantic (on the inside), I loved the book. The details that were missing from the movie were finally explained - why she acted the way she did and he acted the way he did. And why Dr Cullen and his wife were so young looking yet has 5 grown up children, although adopted. The character development of all the Cullens' kids was well done.
Ofcourse a lot of things in the book were adapted. A lot of things were changed. Somehow, Bella didn't seem that wimpy in the movie.
On to New Moon... I couldn't stop. I wanted to know.
Sunday, November 30, 2008
Risky Laundry
It's a good thing that I don't have that much laundry to do around here, since I gave away the dryer and there's not much space to hang up the laundry.
Yup, the dryer is gone. Saved me a few hundred ringgit of repair.
I've lived quite happily in this situation until today. As usual, I would wash the bed linen in the morning, so that it would dry and I could reuse it before nightime. This afternoon, after a whole time of good weather and wind, I went to collect the linens which I'd hang out at the balcony.
The pillow cases which were thicker, dried. Good news! The bedsheet was also dried. But as I were pulling it towards me, I saw the brown spot (and not invisible!). Yucks!
Re-wash is in order... Sigh! And I didn't have a bedsheet for one night.
Yup, the dryer is gone. Saved me a few hundred ringgit of repair.
I've lived quite happily in this situation until today. As usual, I would wash the bed linen in the morning, so that it would dry and I could reuse it before nightime. This afternoon, after a whole time of good weather and wind, I went to collect the linens which I'd hang out at the balcony.
The pillow cases which were thicker, dried. Good news! The bedsheet was also dried. But as I were pulling it towards me, I saw the brown spot (and not invisible!). Yucks!
Re-wash is in order... Sigh! And I didn't have a bedsheet for one night.
Friday, November 28, 2008
Down to earth
Weekend is here again. After the excitement of last weekend, I decided to have a mundane, down to earth, slow weekend. All that will be translated as 'house chores'. Laundry and more laundry. That seems to be an endless task. Sweep the floor, mop the floor, wash the toilets and the tubs and basins. Wipe the exposed surfaces. And more unpacking! Putting things away. How fun! All that and some scrabble and some astro factored in... and some R&R. Ideal...
Thursday, November 27, 2008
Goody! Goody!
Where to go, if you just want a quick, short getaway with no hassle and worry? The place must also be suitable for all ages! You must think this is difficult... but the answer turned out to be 'Genting Highlands' for my family last weekend.
It's school holidays! And a weekend! We wanted to do something different and fun, for the kids and for the grandparents... and for ourselves - being my brother, wifey & I. After a few rounds of subtle brainstorming, Genting Highlands was chosen.
I wasn't sure what we were going to do to fill the time for being there for 2 nights. But it turned out to be fun. On Saturday, the kids and I had fun in the indoor theme park. The grandparents were along to be the watchful eyes and to take pictures! On Sunday, the kids and parents went to the outdoor theme park, while my parents and I went to the Chin Swee Temple. The shuttle bus is now FREE! It used to be RM5 per way a few months back.
The temple is indeed beautiful. and lovely. and meaningful. After a lovely morning walking around, breathing the fresh, crisp and slightly moist air (it drizzled a bit), we went back for a late lunch and a short walkabout the shops before going back to the hotel room for a short rest (afterall, this is supposed to be a relaxing weekend away). Later, we met up with the other group for dinner and more shopping. It was a bit disappointing that there were not many sales!!! But I did manage to get myself a bag, a sweater, and a pair of sunglasses! YAY!
The last day, we enjoyed a slow breakfast, just fooled around and then it's time to check out already!
All-in-all a fine weekend. For the record, I still have not made my way into the outdoor themepark! I need to go with someone who is into those stuff!
It's school holidays! And a weekend! We wanted to do something different and fun, for the kids and for the grandparents... and for ourselves - being my brother, wifey & I. After a few rounds of subtle brainstorming, Genting Highlands was chosen.
I wasn't sure what we were going to do to fill the time for being there for 2 nights. But it turned out to be fun. On Saturday, the kids and I had fun in the indoor theme park. The grandparents were along to be the watchful eyes and to take pictures! On Sunday, the kids and parents went to the outdoor theme park, while my parents and I went to the Chin Swee Temple. The shuttle bus is now FREE! It used to be RM5 per way a few months back.
The temple is indeed beautiful. and lovely. and meaningful. After a lovely morning walking around, breathing the fresh, crisp and slightly moist air (it drizzled a bit), we went back for a late lunch and a short walkabout the shops before going back to the hotel room for a short rest (afterall, this is supposed to be a relaxing weekend away). Later, we met up with the other group for dinner and more shopping. It was a bit disappointing that there were not many sales!!! But I did manage to get myself a bag, a sweater, and a pair of sunglasses! YAY!
The last day, we enjoyed a slow breakfast, just fooled around and then it's time to check out already!
All-in-all a fine weekend. For the record, I still have not made my way into the outdoor themepark! I need to go with someone who is into those stuff!
Oh dear!
'Let's be together'. 'Let's not be together'. How could one person say this and that in the same life time to the same person?
I came from the old school of thought. Going through thick and thin, in sickness and in health, as long as we both shall live. Toughing it out and companionship. That's my concept of being a couple (other than love & passion). But not to all...
Having experienced breaking-up a couple of times, I know it's tough. Although it's a good thing that the situation unravelled before we signed the contract, I wouldn't wish it on another person.
Anyway, this relationship thing has been going round and round in my head lately. Partly because a friend told me that she started dating again, but the guy is far from ideal (I wish her all the best and really hope that things work out - she's really a great gal). And a friend whom I used to do things together had stopped doing things with me - does it mean we broke up? (I'm just sad because friends don't do that to a friend, or do they? or are we more than just friends?). And another friend is going through a rough patch as well.
I hope friends in rocky situations would stay strong. Life is a challenge sometimes and there is no situation where we are not strong enough to wade through.
We just need to remember, rough patches will pass... thankfully.
I came from the old school of thought. Going through thick and thin, in sickness and in health, as long as we both shall live. Toughing it out and companionship. That's my concept of being a couple (other than love & passion). But not to all...
Having experienced breaking-up a couple of times, I know it's tough. Although it's a good thing that the situation unravelled before we signed the contract, I wouldn't wish it on another person.
Anyway, this relationship thing has been going round and round in my head lately. Partly because a friend told me that she started dating again, but the guy is far from ideal (I wish her all the best and really hope that things work out - she's really a great gal). And a friend whom I used to do things together had stopped doing things with me - does it mean we broke up? (I'm just sad because friends don't do that to a friend, or do they? or are we more than just friends?). And another friend is going through a rough patch as well.
I hope friends in rocky situations would stay strong. Life is a challenge sometimes and there is no situation where we are not strong enough to wade through.
We just need to remember, rough patches will pass... thankfully.
Birthday at Bravo
For the nicest and kindest person in our office, this year, we decided to celebrate at a new restaurant called Bravo at IAvenue. An Italian one and a not bad one at that! The Italian feel was really there in the restaurant. There were maps on the table - which I made full use of to illustrate to my friends where exactly I went during my 1+ week sojourn in Italy/Austria.
The aglio olio that I had was superb. I wished I could do it myself. All the meals by the rest of the gang got good reviews. The spanish cake (dessert) was also superb. My hot chocolate was however a disappointment. It came with coffee mate!! That made me miss the hot chocolates in Italy/Vienna A LOT! I guess it tasted better also because of the nice memories...
The aglio olio that I had was superb. I wished I could do it myself. All the meals by the rest of the gang got good reviews. The spanish cake (dessert) was also superb. My hot chocolate was however a disappointment. It came with coffee mate!! That made me miss the hot chocolates in Italy/Vienna A LOT! I guess it tasted better also because of the nice memories...
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
Astro Installed
Finally have the Astro - Cable TV, installed. It was apparently an easy job since the previous tenant did not remove the cables. And also because there was no need to install the dish that is the outdoor unit, since the building already has a central one...
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Quantum of Solace
I think Daniel Craig is abSOlutely gorgeous. Need I say more. The show is good.
Anyway, let's concentrate on the strength of the show. The title itself connotes that something sad had happened. And after the deed, some kind of consolation or comfort were required. The title is just so relevant to the show and to how Bond would be feeling after the 'Vesper' episode. Although being a manly man, he has to deny it to all.
I was a bit lost when the movie started with references to Vesper & her boyfriend, but thankfully, caught on not too far along. The gadgets part was totally missing from this Bond. Where is Q? And Moneypenny. Were all that somehow explained earlier on and I missed it?
It was kind of a twist towards the end. The fight had all been for water when all parties were going along and thinking that they would be getting oil. Ha ha! But ofcourse, ultimately, it's all about the money.
Somehow, is there some kind of ties between Bond and Italy? There were quite a number of scenes in Casino Royale which were based in Italy. The finale being in Venice... and I did recognize some of the locations. And Quantum of Solace opened in Sienna. The first few scenes into the movie, the carabinieri appeared and I was brought back to Florence, where I captured the photo with the carabinieri cars... O wow! Europe changed me a bit, I think.
All in all, I was thoroughly entertained. and enjoyed the movie so. Daniel Craig, oo la la! More! More!
Anyway, let's concentrate on the strength of the show. The title itself connotes that something sad had happened. And after the deed, some kind of consolation or comfort were required. The title is just so relevant to the show and to how Bond would be feeling after the 'Vesper' episode. Although being a manly man, he has to deny it to all.
I was a bit lost when the movie started with references to Vesper & her boyfriend, but thankfully, caught on not too far along. The gadgets part was totally missing from this Bond. Where is Q? And Moneypenny. Were all that somehow explained earlier on and I missed it?
It was kind of a twist towards the end. The fight had all been for water when all parties were going along and thinking that they would be getting oil. Ha ha! But ofcourse, ultimately, it's all about the money.
Somehow, is there some kind of ties between Bond and Italy? There were quite a number of scenes in Casino Royale which were based in Italy. The finale being in Venice... and I did recognize some of the locations. And Quantum of Solace opened in Sienna. The first few scenes into the movie, the carabinieri appeared and I was brought back to Florence, where I captured the photo with the carabinieri cars... O wow! Europe changed me a bit, I think.
All in all, I was thoroughly entertained. and enjoyed the movie so. Daniel Craig, oo la la! More! More!
Refund for fuel surcharge
I was really happy when I read that AirAsia is scrapping off fuel surcharge for their flights. This is good news for travel bugs. It means we could go more places with the same amount of $$. And hopefully, other air lines would follow.
And this morning I read in the newspaper that someone has shouted out to AirAsia to consider refunding the fuel surcharge for tickets bought. I fully support this as I had bought tickets for trips next year which included fuel surcharge!
Other than the fuel surcharge refund, my wishlist includes:
1. More destinations from Penang to be included. Currently, we have to fly to KL first.
2. Cleaner flights.
3. On time flights.
4. More destinations, eg to New Zealand, Europe, Japan.
5. More zero fare flights, with less advance purchase.
And this morning I read in the newspaper that someone has shouted out to AirAsia to consider refunding the fuel surcharge for tickets bought. I fully support this as I had bought tickets for trips next year which included fuel surcharge!
Other than the fuel surcharge refund, my wishlist includes:
1. More destinations from Penang to be included. Currently, we have to fly to KL first.
2. Cleaner flights.
3. On time flights.
4. More destinations, eg to New Zealand, Europe, Japan.
5. More zero fare flights, with less advance purchase.
B.O. - maybe they are ignorant...
Today, I decided that I'm going to do a few of my friends a favor and write on this irritating and annoying, but could be a taboo topic of BO. Or otherwise known as body odour.
I was happily walking through a long corridor on my way back to my office when one of the door opened and out came a waft of air. And along with it, an unpleasant smell. The distinct type that was easily identified as BO. Ew! shucks!
Haven't these people heard of such a thing called deodorant?
I remember in my previous company, two of my close friends, AL and LO had the misfortune to be sitting next to an immaculately dressed (and nice) man who has/had (he may have discovered this and rectified it) a BO issue. And although I stayed away from having to visit them, I had to endure stories of this over lunch and breakfast for nearly two years. yucks! Ofcourse there were stories to tell because AL happened to be pregnant and had morning sickness which were not helped at all by the BO.
BO is universally unpleasant. But why didn't people who are suffering from this do anything to overcome this? Could it be that they are unaware? Hmmm.... it makes me wonder...
Would I want to go through life being smelly? Would you? In this situation is ignorance blissful?
I was happily walking through a long corridor on my way back to my office when one of the door opened and out came a waft of air. And along with it, an unpleasant smell. The distinct type that was easily identified as BO. Ew! shucks!
Haven't these people heard of such a thing called deodorant?
I remember in my previous company, two of my close friends, AL and LO had the misfortune to be sitting next to an immaculately dressed (and nice) man who has/had (he may have discovered this and rectified it) a BO issue. And although I stayed away from having to visit them, I had to endure stories of this over lunch and breakfast for nearly two years. yucks! Ofcourse there were stories to tell because AL happened to be pregnant and had morning sickness which were not helped at all by the BO.
BO is universally unpleasant. But why didn't people who are suffering from this do anything to overcome this? Could it be that they are unaware? Hmmm.... it makes me wonder...
Would I want to go through life being smelly? Would you? In this situation is ignorance blissful?
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Of working life...
The past few days and the week before were the epitome of exactly how I do not want my life to be. Worked late, and too tired after work to be social, hence stayed in (although I did enjoyed playing scrabble over facebook), and the cycle started all over again the next day.
Ofcourse, having a position where I'm a lone contributor gives tremendous job security. Which I do appreciate. And I appreciate having a challenging job. But it's never good when there are too much to do.
However, the plus points here are:
1. I have good+fun colleagues.
2. I have a good boss.
3. I have a certain amount of flexibility in arranging my work. (when there is no emergency)
4. I still like what I do. Lots of things/areas still to explore and learn.
Two grouches:
1. I still need to learn a lot of stuff! Some stuff I don't even know I don't know. No time and probably no budget.
2. Ofcourse, I could use more dough... who doesn't?
Ofcourse, having a position where I'm a lone contributor gives tremendous job security. Which I do appreciate. And I appreciate having a challenging job. But it's never good when there are too much to do.
However, the plus points here are:
1. I have good+fun colleagues.
2. I have a good boss.
3. I have a certain amount of flexibility in arranging my work. (when there is no emergency)
4. I still like what I do. Lots of things/areas still to explore and learn.
Two grouches:
1. I still need to learn a lot of stuff! Some stuff I don't even know I don't know. No time and probably no budget.
2. Ofcourse, I could use more dough... who doesn't?
Monday, November 10, 2008
Shopping Mania!
OMG! Thanksgiving is coming. OK, not that I celebrate the event... Anyway, it's a good thing I'm NO LONGER in the US. I opened my mailbox today and there was an email from the outlets announcing the BIG thanksgiving sales end of the month. And I swear I could feel my blood flowed faster through my veins and the excitement started my heart palpitating a bit faster and I feel energized. OMG! OMG! How I missed the shopping there! How I missed the outlets.
P/s: I really really miss the shopping!
P/s: I really really miss the shopping!
Thursday, November 6, 2008
Change...
Time-of-Flight Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry. Such a mouthful! I've been doing this for the past two years! O ya, it's two years already. Time certainly did fly.
It was a momentous and monumental move for me two years ago, jumping from the academic world to the industrial world. Many people asked me why I did it. I've given many facets of the answer depending on the situation. The only truthful answer is, like so many occassions in my life, I just felt like it's the time to do it. In my mind, the pros outweighed the cons. And I always love a challenge.
Just do it.
It was a momentous and monumental move for me two years ago, jumping from the academic world to the industrial world. Many people asked me why I did it. I've given many facets of the answer depending on the situation. The only truthful answer is, like so many occassions in my life, I just felt like it's the time to do it. In my mind, the pros outweighed the cons. And I always love a challenge.
Just do it.
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
I Googled Me
Now and then I entertained myself by google-search myself. This time around I was pleasantly surprised to find that I am acknowledged in a book called From Silicon Valley to Singapore by David McKendrick, Richard F. Doner and Stephan Haggard. Apparently Stephan Haggard had collaborated with the Anna, a consultant, and Ms. Lim, the boss at the firm DCT Consultancy Services where I had worked as a research officer back in '97-98 (my field was environmental conservation). Anyway, both me and another RO, Wei Seong (I think he mainly did socio-economic work) were acknowledged to have provided research assistance! That was fun.
Another surprising element is that the book touches on the hard disk drive industry and US's leadership and concentration of manufacturing in South East Asia. Atleast that was what I gleaned from reading the acknowledgement pages. Sorry to say, I have not read the book. Anyway, at that time, I didn't even know what a hard disk is. That was still the floppy disk era.
And now, I'm working in this industry! It's as if it was pre-ordained! Strange how the universe works...
Another surprising element is that the book touches on the hard disk drive industry and US's leadership and concentration of manufacturing in South East Asia. Atleast that was what I gleaned from reading the acknowledgement pages. Sorry to say, I have not read the book. Anyway, at that time, I didn't even know what a hard disk is. That was still the floppy disk era.
And now, I'm working in this industry! It's as if it was pre-ordained! Strange how the universe works...
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
Roma, Italia - The voyage...
After reading Dan Brown's Da Vinci's Code, I really, really wanted to go to Rome. There may be a Da Vinci's Code tour, which if I had known, I would definitely join. But since I did not know of any, I joined the Italy tour instead.
The flight there from Penang was awesome (so not!). Our agent had arranged for us to fly Qatar Airways. An airline that I have not been on before. Which turned out to be ok since they had also arranged a short city tour during the transit in Doha. This is my first foray into the land of the Middle East and left on my own devices, I may not ever be here.
We reached Rome at about 6+pm and proceeded to a chinese restaurant for dinner. It was dinner and nothing to shout about since we all hail from the haven of food. After which we were so ready for bed. It had been a long, long voyage.
Coming next, the tour begins...
The flight there from Penang was awesome (so not!). Our agent had arranged for us to fly Qatar Airways. An airline that I have not been on before. Which turned out to be ok since they had also arranged a short city tour during the transit in Doha. This is my first foray into the land of the Middle East and left on my own devices, I may not ever be here.
We reached Rome at about 6+pm and proceeded to a chinese restaurant for dinner. It was dinner and nothing to shout about since we all hail from the haven of food. After which we were so ready for bed. It had been a long, long voyage.
Coming next, the tour begins...
Monday, November 3, 2008
Flying on a budget - not very pleasant sometimes
I've been a staunch supporter of Air Asia for a few years now. I believe in its good and sincere efforts to enable everyone to fly. So, for my previous European trip flying out of KL, I took the AirAsia's Penang to KL and back flight instead of MAS. To my surprise, the Penang-KL flight was early! Goody! But a couple of shocks greeted me in the plane. I had to untangle the seat belts which were all tangled up and after having done that and buckled myself in, there was a pink colored chewed chewing gum on the seat belt! Yucks! And then, looking at the magazine on the pocket of the seat, guess what I found? A used-up vomit bag! Double yucks! What is this?
On the way back from KL to Penang, after a long and tiring journey back, the flight was re-timed from 7.35 pm to 9.15 pm without any notice to us. Apparently it was a last minute thing. But to tired-old-me, a text message to us immediately after they have re-timed the flight would have been nice. Instead we had to rush over to the LCCT at 5 pm only to see on the board that the flight has been re-timed! I had to spend the remaining of the evening hearing the whines and dissatisfaction of my companion. And that's not how I envisioned the end of an incredibly lovely week!
To add to that, after boarding the plane and seated. I noticed that there was a whitish stain on the side of my seat! Urgh! Not to mention the wet seat infront of me that I managed to avoid because that could be clearly seen.
I know that they are working with a packed schedule, but hygiene, I think is not something that can be sacrificed. At the very least, before landing, the flight attendants should make an announcement and go around with rubbish bags to collect the wastes.
Anyway, I've emailed AirAsia's call center (on the hygiene) and hopefully they will not let the situation deteriorate any further...
On the way back from KL to Penang, after a long and tiring journey back, the flight was re-timed from 7.35 pm to 9.15 pm without any notice to us. Apparently it was a last minute thing. But to tired-old-me, a text message to us immediately after they have re-timed the flight would have been nice. Instead we had to rush over to the LCCT at 5 pm only to see on the board that the flight has been re-timed! I had to spend the remaining of the evening hearing the whines and dissatisfaction of my companion. And that's not how I envisioned the end of an incredibly lovely week!
To add to that, after boarding the plane and seated. I noticed that there was a whitish stain on the side of my seat! Urgh! Not to mention the wet seat infront of me that I managed to avoid because that could be clearly seen.
I know that they are working with a packed schedule, but hygiene, I think is not something that can be sacrificed. At the very least, before landing, the flight attendants should make an announcement and go around with rubbish bags to collect the wastes.
Anyway, I've emailed AirAsia's call center (on the hygiene) and hopefully they will not let the situation deteriorate any further...
Sunday, November 2, 2008
My dreamy week...
That's the only way I could describe my week in Europe. It's a fulfilment of a dream. Throughout the trip, I had the occassional lapses of disbelief that I was there, breathing the cool crisp air. My favorite kind. And marvelling in the achievements of men from decades/centuries ago. Hoping that we've learnt from them and march onwards to better days...
The image is of The Pieta by Michelangelo in St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City, which is a country by itself. My photo is not the best, if you were in its presence, it is really breathtaking and magnificent!
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
Scrabbles at Facebook
Hoorah! I just found out about the Scrabbles application on Facebook. Thanks to June, whom I met from playing so much Scrabulous. I was really, really sad when Scrabulous was scrapped from facebook. Nothing could be as fun as making-words on a board and trying to get the best and longest word. I tried Word Challenge but after a while, the same words that I had to key in kinda bored me. But I would still carry on with that now and then to better my score and to catch up with my brainy pal who scored in the excess of 150K.
O ya, please find me at scrabbles on facebook if you couldn't find me anywhere else.
O ya, please find me at scrabbles on facebook if you couldn't find me anywhere else.
Monday, October 13, 2008
O Mamma Mia!
Made my way to the cinema to catch the movie Mamma Mia and boy, was I happy I did that! The cinema guys didn't exactly make it easy for us, want-to-watch-ppl. The show wasn't screened at Queensbay Mall but only at Prangin Mall or Gurney Plaza.
I love Abba-songs. I grew up listening to them. So I know the songs pretty well. Although it's awkward and unnatural that ppl could break into songs and dances at any time, it's a musical! Musicals are supposed to be that way.
The casts were well chosen. There were some big names - Meryl Streep, Pierce Brosnan, Colin Firth. I don't know the rest of the casts but that doesn't mean they are not famous or not talented. I don't know everybody! And everyone who watched the show would agree that the ensemble of the casts worked well.
The number of songs that was included in the duration of the movie was incredible. I really felt I had my money's worth. I love all the songs and the dance moves.
The gals sang beautifully! I refrained from commenting on the guys' singing. I have to credit Colin Firth on his, but somehow, I already knew he could sing. I couldn't remember the title of the song he sang on the boat to Sophie but it was something about the summer with Donna.
For some unfathomable reason, I was alternating between laughing out loud and crying my heart out (during some scenes) throughout the duration of the movie. It could be nostalgia or my new acne meds acting out. I wonder what happened to my Abba cassette or CD.
The first thing after the movie that I did was text my friend asking him to get me the DVD for the show which is not released yet. I wanted the DVD because I wanted to be able to sing to my heart's content and dance all out. In the privacy of my living room. Ha! Ha!
P/s: The author has sinced grabbed the very pricey tickets for the Mamma Mia show in Istana Budaya end of this year. She had to call the hotline 1.5 days before getting through to the sales person. Phew! It's hot!
I love Abba-songs. I grew up listening to them. So I know the songs pretty well. Although it's awkward and unnatural that ppl could break into songs and dances at any time, it's a musical! Musicals are supposed to be that way.
The casts were well chosen. There were some big names - Meryl Streep, Pierce Brosnan, Colin Firth. I don't know the rest of the casts but that doesn't mean they are not famous or not talented. I don't know everybody! And everyone who watched the show would agree that the ensemble of the casts worked well.
The number of songs that was included in the duration of the movie was incredible. I really felt I had my money's worth. I love all the songs and the dance moves.
The gals sang beautifully! I refrained from commenting on the guys' singing. I have to credit Colin Firth on his, but somehow, I already knew he could sing. I couldn't remember the title of the song he sang on the boat to Sophie but it was something about the summer with Donna.
For some unfathomable reason, I was alternating between laughing out loud and crying my heart out (during some scenes) throughout the duration of the movie. It could be nostalgia or my new acne meds acting out. I wonder what happened to my Abba cassette or CD.
The first thing after the movie that I did was text my friend asking him to get me the DVD for the show which is not released yet. I wanted the DVD because I wanted to be able to sing to my heart's content and dance all out. In the privacy of my living room. Ha! Ha!
P/s: The author has sinced grabbed the very pricey tickets for the Mamma Mia show in Istana Budaya end of this year. She had to call the hotline 1.5 days before getting through to the sales person. Phew! It's hot!
Saturday, October 11, 2008
The Fridge - how to live without?
My Toshiba. Fridge. Which I almost couldn't live without these days. Lovin' it.I could come back to cold juice. Have left overs. Keep the creamer for my early morning cuppa tea. Keep some vege. Green vege to boost my calcium intake. and other nutrients as well. And frozen prawns and chickens for when I have time to try my cooking skills - those are supplied by my mom.
And a place to place all my fridge magnets! Finally!
My Kitchen
Here's a shot of my kitchen. What chinese kitchen is without the requisite wok? So, I had to have one. And the rest are typical stuff: my cute rice cooker, kettle and thermos flask. And ofcourse, the hob and cooker hood. Still no toaster and oven.
In Love
I'm in love! With my condo. Chez moi is really mine (and the bank). It comes with the whole shebang and, in the words of Carrie Bradshaw (who is she?, SATC, season 5, I think), zsa zsa zsu. I guess in layperson's term, the novelty is still there. Butterflies in my stomach. Eager to be home. Cleaning here and there. Spend money. Giving gifts. It's tiring work. But worth it.
It's not exactly the most perfect of places but it fits me, I think.
It's not exactly the most perfect of places but it fits me, I think.
Thursday, October 9, 2008
French Toast Chez Moi
This was one day last week, after a week of hankering for french toasts, I finally decided to make my own.
So to prove that I did made some, here's my honeyed french toast. Two eggs, a dollop of honey, five slices of bread and dollops of butter (yummy!) for the pan.
Yay!
Eagle Eye
I'm super glad I went for this movie last night. The show was impressive. The premises of the show was impressive. The eagle eye concept and ability were impressive, getting messages off from vibrations etc. Except for the gold balls? I guess, it's possible. The interaction between the two leads was good, except the end there. Did the guy always have to kiss the gal? I sensed that that would happened at the end. Afterall, it is Hollywood. I just didn't feel it right between the two of them. Anyway, I was too happy that Jerry didn't die that that small moment was overshadowed by his award ceremony and that finally, his father could see him as he really was. Thankfully.
Poor Service
I've not been blogging much the past week, I think. Partly is due to the poor streamyx stability at nights. For example last night, after about ten minutes of fine connection, then, the rest of night, no connection at all, nada! The night before, could not connect at all!
Talking about service, yesterday while having lunch at Sunshine Square I stopped by the electrical store mentioned by the previous home owner, G, to ask about the replacement or spare for the charcoal filter for the cooker hood.
This man, could be friendlier but he was not. The way he talked was just so patronizing and as if he tried to put me off buying. He kept repeating that the filters are very expensive (c.a. RM100) and that I have to pay the full amount upfront before he would order the items. But first, he has to check the availability of the items. Hmmm...
Was I supposed to get the hint that he didn't actually wanted to do my business but was kinda forced to since I walked into his shop? That's why he behaved the way he did? Or was it a bad day/moment for him?
I'm still undecided. I'm supposed to get back to him with the model no. but I'm hesitant. He could run off with 'lots' of my money (about RM200+, since I need two filters).
Talking about service, yesterday while having lunch at Sunshine Square I stopped by the electrical store mentioned by the previous home owner, G, to ask about the replacement or spare for the charcoal filter for the cooker hood.
This man, could be friendlier but he was not. The way he talked was just so patronizing and as if he tried to put me off buying. He kept repeating that the filters are very expensive (c.a. RM100) and that I have to pay the full amount upfront before he would order the items. But first, he has to check the availability of the items. Hmmm...
Was I supposed to get the hint that he didn't actually wanted to do my business but was kinda forced to since I walked into his shop? That's why he behaved the way he did? Or was it a bad day/moment for him?
I'm still undecided. I'm supposed to get back to him with the model no. but I'm hesitant. He could run off with 'lots' of my money (about RM200+, since I need two filters).
Saturday, October 4, 2008
Older or wiser?
I was watching another episode of SATC tonight. This time a season III. This episode asked the question, are we growing older or wiser?
The real question is, am I growing older or wiser? I would like to think that I'm doing both, since I definitely am doing the former. Atleast with the latter, it would seem like I'm doing something right. But what if things that I learnt are not real? How do we ever know if the things we learnt in life are real or not?
Even if it's written in an age-old book by some writer known to people as sagely, human or otherwise, how do we ever know for sure that they are right? Afterall, in a lot of situations, being right is subjective. It's personal. It's conditional.
I have gone through stages of life where I believed in different things. Experienced different things. I inevitably came to one conclusion, I didn't ever want to go back to my twenties. I was a late bloomer, twenties for me was still a period of awkwardness. I was uncertain about some stuff and didn't know my place in the world. I had fun, that I couldn't deny. Then, I did my grad work, found myself and came out from my shell.
But deep inside, I doubt if I changed. I just hoped I'm wiser.
The real question is, am I growing older or wiser? I would like to think that I'm doing both, since I definitely am doing the former. Atleast with the latter, it would seem like I'm doing something right. But what if things that I learnt are not real? How do we ever know if the things we learnt in life are real or not?
Even if it's written in an age-old book by some writer known to people as sagely, human or otherwise, how do we ever know for sure that they are right? Afterall, in a lot of situations, being right is subjective. It's personal. It's conditional.
I have gone through stages of life where I believed in different things. Experienced different things. I inevitably came to one conclusion, I didn't ever want to go back to my twenties. I was a late bloomer, twenties for me was still a period of awkwardness. I was uncertain about some stuff and didn't know my place in the world. I had fun, that I couldn't deny. Then, I did my grad work, found myself and came out from my shell.
But deep inside, I doubt if I changed. I just hoped I'm wiser.
Thursday, October 2, 2008
Cool Raya
It has been a cool and memorable Raya for me this time around. Although I've not been to any Raya open house, I've been entertained by sparkling shows on the night sky for the past two nights. The guys staying not too far away have been pretty generous with the fireworks. I have the perfect view when I lay on my bed looking out of my windows. And a pretty view from my living room sofa too. As a matter of fact, the entertainment was on a few minutes ago. Pretty slow moving sparkles that went up in an arc. Wow!
Swimming...
I heard of some plans to come over to my place for swimming during this public hols but the plan didn't panned out. Not too sure why. Could be due to me being away from my cubicle Monday and Tuesday, and that kinda hampered the planning efficiency.
However, I did managed to get two swimming sessions yesterday and today. I started with ten laps yesterday and upped it to twenty laps today. There were only a few other people in the 'adult' pool, hence, I had a good time swimming without bumping into anybody. (I was swimming at 11 am). The water was not too cold and not warm. Thankfully no floating objects. It was clear. My new goggles worked find. I re-discovered the joy of swimming laps. Still not anywhere near how much I used to swim but this was a start.
Since the rediscovery, I've been trying to read up (google) swimming for fitness. One of the advice given is to alternate different strokes to work out different muscles. This one is impossible for me. Sigh! Sigh! Not sure if I want to add this to my list of to-do-things...
However, I did managed to get two swimming sessions yesterday and today. I started with ten laps yesterday and upped it to twenty laps today. There were only a few other people in the 'adult' pool, hence, I had a good time swimming without bumping into anybody. (I was swimming at 11 am). The water was not too cold and not warm. Thankfully no floating objects. It was clear. My new goggles worked find. I re-discovered the joy of swimming laps. Still not anywhere near how much I used to swim but this was a start.
Since the rediscovery, I've been trying to read up (google) swimming for fitness. One of the advice given is to alternate different strokes to work out different muscles. This one is impossible for me. Sigh! Sigh! Not sure if I want to add this to my list of to-do-things...
Elba built-in hob
It seems that there is something not very right with the hob that I have. Either that, or I've been using it wrongly and still don't know better.
The fire would suddenly go off and when I (or anybody who was doing the cooking) tried to re-ignite, nothing happened. That and a red light would be on. After a while the light went off and ignition would work and all would be fine.
Tried to google but it's pretty difficult since I do not know the model for the hob. And it's not written anywhere visible. Sigh! Looks like another call to the service center... (nobody picked up when I called today, it is a public holiday!).
The fire would suddenly go off and when I (or anybody who was doing the cooking) tried to re-ignite, nothing happened. That and a red light would be on. After a while the light went off and ignition would work and all would be fine.
Tried to google but it's pretty difficult since I do not know the model for the hob. And it's not written anywhere visible. Sigh! Looks like another call to the service center... (nobody picked up when I called today, it is a public holiday!).
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Jane Austen's Book Club
I was feeling extremely bored and felt like watching tv but unfortunately, there was nothing good on tv. I was kinda regretting my decision to delay cable tv. Then I recalled I have this DVD that I was not particularly keen to watch because a few years back I had read the book and had to really force myself to finish it because I had this policy of not leaving a book left unfinished.
Anyway, ofcourse the way it went was, I put the DVD on and was totally pleasantly surprised that I enjoyed the movie. Totally! The casts were stellar. The script was good. The presentation was even better. The result: Totally! I couldn't say I remember all the Jane Austen's books (which I read like a decade ago), but truly, what ppl want then (even when Jane Austen wrote those books) and what ppl want now, stays pretty much the same.
There's the couple who has been together for 20 odd years on the verge of divorce due to the man cheating. His story was that 20 odd years is a long time of marriage and the relationship between the two of them is stale and unexciting. He's been seeing a woman at work for the past 6 months and he's not giving her up, that's non-negotiable.
Then, there's the gay daughter who was into extreme sports. And fell in love easily. Too easily according to the mom. She was in a relationship with a gal who always wanted her to tell her life's secrets and stories. One day, she discovered that the gal has been using her stories as material for her writings (the gal was trying to get published).
The next character is the good friend, who was single and was the one that introduced the couple way back in high school.
Then there's the cute guy (didn't harm that he's rich and smart too), who just bumped into the good friend and was so captivated he joined the book club reading Jane Austen's books so that he would have occassion to meet her.
Next, is the french teacher who had never been to France. Who happened to be married but found herself attracted to one of her students.
We also have the quirky, eccentric friend who had gone through a few marriages and looking for another one.
That was a good approx. 1.5 hrs.
Anyway, ofcourse the way it went was, I put the DVD on and was totally pleasantly surprised that I enjoyed the movie. Totally! The casts were stellar. The script was good. The presentation was even better. The result: Totally! I couldn't say I remember all the Jane Austen's books (which I read like a decade ago), but truly, what ppl want then (even when Jane Austen wrote those books) and what ppl want now, stays pretty much the same.
There's the couple who has been together for 20 odd years on the verge of divorce due to the man cheating. His story was that 20 odd years is a long time of marriage and the relationship between the two of them is stale and unexciting. He's been seeing a woman at work for the past 6 months and he's not giving her up, that's non-negotiable.
Then, there's the gay daughter who was into extreme sports. And fell in love easily. Too easily according to the mom. She was in a relationship with a gal who always wanted her to tell her life's secrets and stories. One day, she discovered that the gal has been using her stories as material for her writings (the gal was trying to get published).
The next character is the good friend, who was single and was the one that introduced the couple way back in high school.
Then there's the cute guy (didn't harm that he's rich and smart too), who just bumped into the good friend and was so captivated he joined the book club reading Jane Austen's books so that he would have occassion to meet her.
Next, is the french teacher who had never been to France. Who happened to be married but found herself attracted to one of her students.
We also have the quirky, eccentric friend who had gone through a few marriages and looking for another one.
That was a good approx. 1.5 hrs.
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
Domestic Dangers
I've been doing a lot of cleaning and cleaning and more to come. In my efforts to get everything spic and span, I've been using different kinds of chemical. Being a person who is into chemistry, I've been worried of adverse effects, short and long term. I typically do this in the beginning of all my projects, work or non-work. Gathering info and trying to absorb all that in.
Anyway, check out this link which I find useful, both for work and non-work:
Guide for Handling Household Chemicals (EnvironmentalChemistry.com) - Things you can do to make your home safer.
Anyway, check out this link which I find useful, both for work and non-work:
Guide for Handling Household Chemicals (EnvironmentalChemistry.com) - Things you can do to make your home safer.
Monday, September 22, 2008
More Kitchen stuff
Short work on my cooker hood. Found out that I have a Zanussi ZH6020. And that I needed new grease filter and charcoal filter. Managed to find grease filter in Sunshine. Still have to look for the charcoal filter. The previous owner, G, told me that she bought it from the electrical store next to Sunshine.
Sunday, September 21, 2008
Newest addition to the kitchen
Found these wooden contraptions, one for the kitchen towel and one for the mugs, both for 14.90!
Yay! I'm happy for my kitchen...
Fourth Weekend...
Since I officially moved in on the 31st of August, this is my fourth weekend at my new place. I still feel the novelty. Still trying to settle to some kind of habit and getting used to having so much space. And ofcourse, still unpacking!
On saturday, I was 'forced' to pick up the speed because I needed a dress for a wedding dinner that I was attending that night. I had unpacked a few bags and strewn the clothing articles from the bags all around the room and living room space - so that I could see all that I have and decide where each article would go and which one would need to be re-wash. Anyway, between resting and putting away the clothes, I only managed to finish those few bags Sunday afternoon!
As I was hanging up the clothes in the wardrobe, I was struck by the number of clothes I have that were from my previous job - my first real job out of grad school. Clothes that I most certainly would not be wearing for my current job. Anyway, it felt like when I changed job, I had changed my life and entered into a new phase of life. I'm not sure if I would ever wear those clothes again. I'm not sure if this is what I would do for the rest of my working life.
But hanging up those clothes in my own built-in wardrobe, I feel like this is another phase of life. I'm excited about this, still is after four weeks. Just like my job still excites me, going on to two years now. (ofcourse it would excite me more if there is a good increment this year!)
All that and I still two luggages left to unpack. Not sure what kind of thoughts will come to me when I get to them.
On saturday, I was 'forced' to pick up the speed because I needed a dress for a wedding dinner that I was attending that night. I had unpacked a few bags and strewn the clothing articles from the bags all around the room and living room space - so that I could see all that I have and decide where each article would go and which one would need to be re-wash. Anyway, between resting and putting away the clothes, I only managed to finish those few bags Sunday afternoon!
As I was hanging up the clothes in the wardrobe, I was struck by the number of clothes I have that were from my previous job - my first real job out of grad school. Clothes that I most certainly would not be wearing for my current job. Anyway, it felt like when I changed job, I had changed my life and entered into a new phase of life. I'm not sure if I would ever wear those clothes again. I'm not sure if this is what I would do for the rest of my working life.
But hanging up those clothes in my own built-in wardrobe, I feel like this is another phase of life. I'm excited about this, still is after four weeks. Just like my job still excites me, going on to two years now. (ofcourse it would excite me more if there is a good increment this year!)
All that and I still two luggages left to unpack. Not sure what kind of thoughts will come to me when I get to them.
Saturday, September 20, 2008
My Broadband
It has been 2 weeks since I installed my streamyx package. Although I was doubtful and hesitant in the beginning (and there were some problems in the first 5 days), I am happy to say that I love both the broadband and the phone line that I now have.
Goody!
Goody!
The Miracle of Pull Tab
This morning, as I was preparing my morning cuppa tea and mixing in the creamer, I noticed that I was almost out of creamer. I knew that I had earlier on stocked two additional cans since my mom said that the price on that shopping day was really good. The next thing that occurred to me was, d0 I have a can opener? If I don't, I will have to go get one or today will be my last day with my fav milk tea in the morning. And if I do, is it the type that has the twisting mechanism or the one that required brute strength to push and pull?
You might wonder, why I asked these questions - because didn't I know what utilities and utensils I bought for my own kitchen? The truth of the matter is, my parents stocked up my utilities and utensils. About the only things I bought recently for the kitchen are kitchen towels and a drawer organiser to put those utensils. Apparently, over the years, I have had the habit of bringing things which I felt was nice or which I received through points or coupon exchanges or even through lucky draws, back to my parents' place with the intention of giving them those items since I didn't have much space previously to house all of them. My mom has been keeping all those stuff and now filling up space in my house with those things. Along with new items she bought which she felt I would need.
Back to my creamer issue, so, I opened up the drawers looking for a can opener and I was surprised to find out that I did not have one. I wondered how the creamer that I have now was opened. Then it struck me, on that particular shopping day, my mom specifically told me that she chose this particular brand and type because of the pull-tab!
I don't need a can opener for my creamer. I can still have my morning cuppa tomorrow...
You might wonder, why I asked these questions - because didn't I know what utilities and utensils I bought for my own kitchen? The truth of the matter is, my parents stocked up my utilities and utensils. About the only things I bought recently for the kitchen are kitchen towels and a drawer organiser to put those utensils. Apparently, over the years, I have had the habit of bringing things which I felt was nice or which I received through points or coupon exchanges or even through lucky draws, back to my parents' place with the intention of giving them those items since I didn't have much space previously to house all of them. My mom has been keeping all those stuff and now filling up space in my house with those things. Along with new items she bought which she felt I would need.
Back to my creamer issue, so, I opened up the drawers looking for a can opener and I was surprised to find out that I did not have one. I wondered how the creamer that I have now was opened. Then it struck me, on that particular shopping day, my mom specifically told me that she chose this particular brand and type because of the pull-tab!
I don't need a can opener for my creamer. I can still have my morning cuppa tomorrow...
Thursday, September 18, 2008
Share market fell world wide
I heard the news last night abt the giant insurance company requiring bail-out, but I didn't expect the hit to be larger than just that company. It seems like the world economy is on the verge of collapse. Hopefully, I'm just mouthing nonsense & exxaggerratting, since I don't exactly understand what is happening anyway. I was browsing thestar.com.my earlier, more news on that the global financial woes and a caption caught my eye.
Something on Toshiba, but I just can't remember what it's all about. Which brought me to think about my newly purchased Toshiba washing machine. and which led to the thoughts, " should I have waited to buy? could the price go down?". Then, that led to the thoughts, "oh no! will the interest rates rise????". And that, goes straight to panic! No! No! No! No! No!
I console myself... Well, now that the US government has bailed out that company, and having that incident as an example, the relevant ppl in the financial world would be more cautious and have contingencies set up to prevent that from happening to their companies, so, the situation on the whole will be improving from now... No more inflation. No interest hike. Hopefully. For all new home owners, who have a loan to service...
Something on Toshiba, but I just can't remember what it's all about. Which brought me to think about my newly purchased Toshiba washing machine. and which led to the thoughts, " should I have waited to buy? could the price go down?". Then, that led to the thoughts, "oh no! will the interest rates rise????". And that, goes straight to panic! No! No! No! No! No!
I console myself... Well, now that the US government has bailed out that company, and having that incident as an example, the relevant ppl in the financial world would be more cautious and have contingencies set up to prevent that from happening to their companies, so, the situation on the whole will be improving from now... No more inflation. No interest hike. Hopefully. For all new home owners, who have a loan to service...
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
One day you're gonna wake up and you're not gonna recognize yourself...
That's just a phrase I heard while watching an episode of Sex and the City with my new DVD player.
My first reaction to the phrase was, Scary! But then...
Not recognizing yourself, could be twofold. It may be good if you're so much better than you ever thought you could be, hence, you couldn't recognize yourself. Or vice versa. So, if it's the case of the former, it's a big YAY! So, here's hoping that all of us will be just that.
My first reaction to the phrase was, Scary! But then...
Not recognizing yourself, could be twofold. It may be good if you're so much better than you ever thought you could be, hence, you couldn't recognize yourself. Or vice versa. So, if it's the case of the former, it's a big YAY! So, here's hoping that all of us will be just that.
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
My First DVD session
True to being me, I could not even switch on the DVD player. After that first battle and the player was finally on, I could not get the player to play. That's because I forgot that the remote control needed batteries! Which I have, they were just in the drawer and not in the remote control. My only excuse is, I've never had to do that (put batteries into RCs). Previously, at my parents' or brother's home, I just take the RCs, press buttons and voila, they do their work.
Luckily, I was not alone for my maiden experience of operating a DVD player. Got plenty of help, obviously! Thanks Jon! For that and the DVDs!
After that, the first show being played was the Nanny's Diary which turned out to be hilarious and fun and a good pick!
Luckily, I was not alone for my maiden experience of operating a DVD player. Got plenty of help, obviously! Thanks Jon! For that and the DVDs!
After that, the first show being played was the Nanny's Diary which turned out to be hilarious and fun and a good pick!
Another two items settled
Water Heater : The Joven service guy came to look over the old storage heater system and concluded that there must be some kind of leakage for the previous owner to dismantle the system. He recommended a new instant water heater system instead of repairs since the repair would be very costly. Based on my parents' and cousin's inputs and a few other ppl I talked to, I bought a Panasonic one.
Washing Machine: I finally told the repair guy to forget about the dryer. That saved RM470 of my money that I wasn't planning on spending and a few hundreds more of money I was planning on spending on a washing machine if I had to buy a front-load machine. Instead, I decided on a Toshiba top-load machine for less than 1K. Yeah, after looking at all the washing machines in the shop, I still have more confidence in a Toshiba.
And since I was at the electrical shop, I also bought a rice cooker. For all that, I was given a big pot (atleast the biggest I've got so far) for free.
Both to be installed on Wednesday. Hopefully, that would be smooth.
Washing Machine: I finally told the repair guy to forget about the dryer. That saved RM470 of my money that I wasn't planning on spending and a few hundreds more of money I was planning on spending on a washing machine if I had to buy a front-load machine. Instead, I decided on a Toshiba top-load machine for less than 1K. Yeah, after looking at all the washing machines in the shop, I still have more confidence in a Toshiba.
And since I was at the electrical shop, I also bought a rice cooker. For all that, I was given a big pot (atleast the biggest I've got so far) for free.
Both to be installed on Wednesday. Hopefully, that would be smooth.
Sunday, September 14, 2008
Another domestic weekend...
Saturday and Sunday are again fully utilized for house related business. I've finally moved all my stuff from my old place to my new place. I just realized that my mom is super efficient when it comes to dismantling and packing up jumbled stuff! Thankfully for her efficiency coz when I looked at pieces of things I own, I really didn't know how to start packing things up.
At my current place, I have bags and bags of stuff in my living and bed rooms, waiting for me to unpack. Which I am doing, slowly... in between playing Word Challenge on Facebook (since I finally have my broadband connection) - all important. I've been losing out since not having regular connection...
At my current place, I have bags and bags of stuff in my living and bed rooms, waiting for me to unpack. Which I am doing, slowly... in between playing Word Challenge on Facebook (since I finally have my broadband connection) - all important. I've been losing out since not having regular connection...
Another much appreciated gift...
Came in the form of a DVD player. Given by the representative or maybe the leader of the DVD 'cops', and an all-around close friend of mine. It also came with installation services! That is also much appreciated since I feel I'm all hands and legs when it comes to installations.
Cheers to good friends! who give thoughful gifts!
Next, to try out the player...
Cheers to good friends! who give thoughful gifts!
Next, to try out the player...
Thursday, September 11, 2008
What my birthday means...
Birthday Calculator
12 February 1973
Your date of conception was on or about 22 May 1972 which was a Monday.
You were born on a Monday under the astrological sign Aquarius.
Your Life path number is 7.
Your fortune cookie reads: A friend is a present you give yourself.
Life Path Compatibility:
You are most compatible with those with the Life Path numbers 1, 5 & 7.
You should get along well with those with the Life Path numbers 4 & 22.
You may or may not get along well with those with the Life Path number 9.
You are least compatible with those with the Life Path numbers 2, 3, 6, 8 & 11.
The Julian calendar date of your birth is 2441725.5.
The golden number for 1973 is 17.
The epact number for 1973 is 25.
The year 1973 was not a leap year.
Your birthday falls into the Chinese year beginning 2/3/1973 and ending 1/22/1974.
You were born in the Chinese year of the Ox.
Your Native American Zodiac sign is Otter; your plant is Fern.
You were born in the Egyptian month of Parmuthy, the fourth month of the season of Poret (Emergence - Fertile soil).
Your date of birth on the Hebrew calendar is 11 AdarI 5733.
Or if you were born after sundown then the date is 12 AdarI 5733.
The Mayan Calendar long count date of your birthday is 12.17.19.10.1 which is12 baktun 17 katun 19 tun 10 uinal 1 kin
The Hijra (Islamic Calendar) date of your birth is Monday, 9 Muharram 1393 (1393-1-9).
The date of Easter on your birth year was Sunday, 22 April 1973.
The date of Orthodox Easter on your birth year was Sunday, 29 April 1973.
The date of Ash Wednesday (the first day of Lent) on your birth year was Wednesday 7 March 1973.The date of Whitsun (Pentecost Sunday) in the year of your birth was Sunday 10 June 1973.
The date of Whisuntide in the year of your birth was Sunday 17 June 1973.
The date of Rosh Hashanah in the year of your birth was Thursday, 27 September 1973.
The date of Passover in the year of your birth was Tuesday, 17 April 1973.
The date of Mardi Gras on your birth year was Tuesday 6 March 1973.
As of 9/10/2008 10:30:48 PM EDT
You are 35 years old. You are 427 months old. You are 1,856 weeks old. You are 12,994 days old. You are 311,878 hours old. You are 18,712,710 minutes old. You are 1,122,762,648 seconds old.
Celebrities who share your birthday:
Christina Ricci (1980)
Naseem Hamed (1974)
Arsenio Hall (1955)
Joanna Kerns (1953)
Steve Hackett (1950)
Ray Manzarek (1939)
Judy Blume (1938)
Bill Russell (1934)
Joe Garagiola (1926)
Franco Zeffirelli (1923)
Dom DiMaggio (1917)
Lorne Greene (1915)
Ted Mack (1904)
Charles Darwin (1809)
Abraham Lincoln (1809)
Top songs of 1973
Killing Me Softly with His Song by Roberta Flack
Tie a Yellow Ribbon Round the Old Oak Tree by Dawn
My Love by Paul McCartney & Wings
You're So Vain by Carly Simon
Crocodile Rock by Elton John
Let's Get It On by Marvin Gaye
Keep On Truckin' by Eddie Kendricks
Bad, Bad Leroy Brown by Jim Croce
Top of the World by Carpenters
Midnight Train to Georgia by Gladys Knight & the Pips
Your age is the equivalent of a dog that is 5.08571428571429 years old. (You're still chasing cats!)
Your lucky day is Saturday.
Your lucky number is 4 & 8.
Your ruling planet(s) is Saturn & Uranus.
Your lucky dates are 1st, 10th, 19th, 28th.
Your opposition sign is Leo.
Your opposition number(s) is 1.
Today is not one of your lucky days!
There are 155 days till your next birthday on which your cake will have 36 candles.
Those 36 candles produce 36 BTUs,or 9,072 calories of heat (that's only 9.0720 food Calories!) .
You can boil 4.11 US ounces of water with that many candles.
In 1973 there were approximately 3.7 million births in the US.
In 1973 the US population was approximately 203,302,031 people, 57.4 persons per square mile.
In 1973 in the US there were approximately 2,158,802 marriages (10.6%) and 708,000 divorces (3.5%)
In 1973 in the US there were approximately 1,921,000 deaths (9.5 per 1000)In the US a new person is born approximately every 8 seconds.
In the US one person dies approximately every 12 seconds.
In 1973 the population of Australia was approximately 13,614,344.
In 1973 there were approximately 247,670 births in Australia.
In 1973 in Australia there were approximately 112,700 marriages and 16,195 divorces.
In 1973 in Australia there were approximately 110,822 deaths.
Your birthstone is Amethyst -->The Mystical properties of Amethyst
Amethyst is used to increase spiritually
Some lists consider these stones to be your birthstone. (Birthstone lists come from Jewelers, Tibet, Ayurvedic Indian medicine, and other sources)
Bloodstone, Onyx, Moonstone
Your birth tree is
Cedar, the Confidence
Of rare beauty, knows how to adapt, likes luxury, of good health not in the least shy, tends to look down on others, self-confident, determined, impatient, wants to impress others, many talents, industrious, healthy, optimism, waiting for the one true love, able to make quick decisions.
There are 106 days till Christmas 2008!
There are 119 days till Orthodox Christmas!
The moon's phase on the day you wereborn was waxing gibbous.
Thanks to BC Loke for providing this link.. http://www.paulsadowski.com/BirthData.asp
12 February 1973
Your date of conception was on or about 22 May 1972 which was a Monday.
You were born on a Monday under the astrological sign Aquarius.
Your Life path number is 7.
Your fortune cookie reads: A friend is a present you give yourself.
Life Path Compatibility:
You are most compatible with those with the Life Path numbers 1, 5 & 7.
You should get along well with those with the Life Path numbers 4 & 22.
You may or may not get along well with those with the Life Path number 9.
You are least compatible with those with the Life Path numbers 2, 3, 6, 8 & 11.
The Julian calendar date of your birth is 2441725.5.
The golden number for 1973 is 17.
The epact number for 1973 is 25.
The year 1973 was not a leap year.
Your birthday falls into the Chinese year beginning 2/3/1973 and ending 1/22/1974.
You were born in the Chinese year of the Ox.
Your Native American Zodiac sign is Otter; your plant is Fern.
You were born in the Egyptian month of Parmuthy, the fourth month of the season of Poret (Emergence - Fertile soil).
Your date of birth on the Hebrew calendar is 11 AdarI 5733.
Or if you were born after sundown then the date is 12 AdarI 5733.
The Mayan Calendar long count date of your birthday is 12.17.19.10.1 which is12 baktun 17 katun 19 tun 10 uinal 1 kin
The Hijra (Islamic Calendar) date of your birth is Monday, 9 Muharram 1393 (1393-1-9).
The date of Easter on your birth year was Sunday, 22 April 1973.
The date of Orthodox Easter on your birth year was Sunday, 29 April 1973.
The date of Ash Wednesday (the first day of Lent) on your birth year was Wednesday 7 March 1973.The date of Whitsun (Pentecost Sunday) in the year of your birth was Sunday 10 June 1973.
The date of Whisuntide in the year of your birth was Sunday 17 June 1973.
The date of Rosh Hashanah in the year of your birth was Thursday, 27 September 1973.
The date of Passover in the year of your birth was Tuesday, 17 April 1973.
The date of Mardi Gras on your birth year was Tuesday 6 March 1973.
As of 9/10/2008 10:30:48 PM EDT
You are 35 years old. You are 427 months old. You are 1,856 weeks old. You are 12,994 days old. You are 311,878 hours old. You are 18,712,710 minutes old. You are 1,122,762,648 seconds old.
Celebrities who share your birthday:
Christina Ricci (1980)
Naseem Hamed (1974)
Arsenio Hall (1955)
Joanna Kerns (1953)
Steve Hackett (1950)
Ray Manzarek (1939)
Judy Blume (1938)
Bill Russell (1934)
Joe Garagiola (1926)
Franco Zeffirelli (1923)
Dom DiMaggio (1917)
Lorne Greene (1915)
Ted Mack (1904)
Charles Darwin (1809)
Abraham Lincoln (1809)
Top songs of 1973
Killing Me Softly with His Song by Roberta Flack
Tie a Yellow Ribbon Round the Old Oak Tree by Dawn
My Love by Paul McCartney & Wings
You're So Vain by Carly Simon
Crocodile Rock by Elton John
Let's Get It On by Marvin Gaye
Keep On Truckin' by Eddie Kendricks
Bad, Bad Leroy Brown by Jim Croce
Top of the World by Carpenters
Midnight Train to Georgia by Gladys Knight & the Pips
Your age is the equivalent of a dog that is 5.08571428571429 years old. (You're still chasing cats!)
Your lucky day is Saturday.
Your lucky number is 4 & 8.
Your ruling planet(s) is Saturn & Uranus.
Your lucky dates are 1st, 10th, 19th, 28th.
Your opposition sign is Leo.
Your opposition number(s) is 1.
Today is not one of your lucky days!
There are 155 days till your next birthday on which your cake will have 36 candles.
Those 36 candles produce 36 BTUs,or 9,072 calories of heat (that's only 9.0720 food Calories!) .
You can boil 4.11 US ounces of water with that many candles.
In 1973 there were approximately 3.7 million births in the US.
In 1973 the US population was approximately 203,302,031 people, 57.4 persons per square mile.
In 1973 in the US there were approximately 2,158,802 marriages (10.6%) and 708,000 divorces (3.5%)
In 1973 in the US there were approximately 1,921,000 deaths (9.5 per 1000)In the US a new person is born approximately every 8 seconds.
In the US one person dies approximately every 12 seconds.
In 1973 the population of Australia was approximately 13,614,344.
In 1973 there were approximately 247,670 births in Australia.
In 1973 in Australia there were approximately 112,700 marriages and 16,195 divorces.
In 1973 in Australia there were approximately 110,822 deaths.
Your birthstone is Amethyst -->The Mystical properties of Amethyst
Amethyst is used to increase spiritually
Some lists consider these stones to be your birthstone. (Birthstone lists come from Jewelers, Tibet, Ayurvedic Indian medicine, and other sources)
Bloodstone, Onyx, Moonstone
Your birth tree is
Cedar, the Confidence
Of rare beauty, knows how to adapt, likes luxury, of good health not in the least shy, tends to look down on others, self-confident, determined, impatient, wants to impress others, many talents, industrious, healthy, optimism, waiting for the one true love, able to make quick decisions.
There are 106 days till Christmas 2008!
There are 119 days till Orthodox Christmas!
The moon's phase on the day you wereborn was waxing gibbous.
Thanks to BC Loke for providing this link.. http://www.paulsadowski.com/BirthData.asp
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
Lightings for mood
I currently have plenty of lights in my new place. There are down lights and fluorescent lights in the living, dining and bed rooms. Only down lights for two of the smaller rooms. Anyway, after my experiments last night, the lights are not exactly suitable for reading... especially when I was sitting at the places that I planned to sit.
Objectives for lighting are twofold, to improve lighting for reading and to replace lamps that were removed since there are wires jutting out where they were.
My lighting plans are a floor lamp (suitable for reading) for my room, three wall lamps for the living room, one wall lamp in the dining area and a balcony light for my 'drying' area. Also, if I feel like it for the balcony.
A few down lights are not working at all, namely one at the entrance of my room and two near the big windows (not too important). A few not working properly and dimmer in the small room needs to be checked.
Work to do still...
Objectives for lighting are twofold, to improve lighting for reading and to replace lamps that were removed since there are wires jutting out where they were.
My lighting plans are a floor lamp (suitable for reading) for my room, three wall lamps for the living room, one wall lamp in the dining area and a balcony light for my 'drying' area. Also, if I feel like it for the balcony.
A few down lights are not working at all, namely one at the entrance of my room and two near the big windows (not too important). A few not working properly and dimmer in the small room needs to be checked.
Work to do still...
Monday, September 8, 2008
Over the weekend...
My new fridge and new air cond are in, despite the heavy rain on Saturday! Love the fridge, love the air cond. And I registered for my phone line, coupled with internet broadband. Yay! Not sure when the installation will be though. Hope it's soon. I miss facebook!
Still waiting for my sofa set... I received a call to collect my other two free gifts from C*u*ts on Thursday and I went to collect them on Friday evening after work. I was quite disappointed with the gifts. I was given something that is totally not in the list (that's not too bad, because it could be useful), but I was given two of the same thing! When I asked about the multiplicity, the guy there asked me to take it up with the salesperson who sold me the items I purchased (who has left for the day and will be on leave the next day). The truth is, the customer service there sucks (that's probably enough material for a posting by itself when I have time to write up on that)! On the other hand, I love the other free gift that I got - a Philip blender. I guess you gotta win some and lose some...
Finally called the guy who was supposed to check over the dryer. He told me that the repairs will be RM470 because the motor and belt, both need to be replaced. That is a lot of money, considering that in order to use that, I would need to buy a side-load washing machine and the support to mount the dryer on top - which could easily be another 1.8K atleast. Totalled up to abt 2.2K. So, I am 90% for forgetting about the dryer. I'm going to mull over this for a few days...
We had our first meals cooked in the house this weekend. That was for lunch on Saturday and breakfast on Sunday.
Then, it was to more shopping to filled the many empty spaces and cabinets...
Still waiting for my sofa set... I received a call to collect my other two free gifts from C*u*ts on Thursday and I went to collect them on Friday evening after work. I was quite disappointed with the gifts. I was given something that is totally not in the list (that's not too bad, because it could be useful), but I was given two of the same thing! When I asked about the multiplicity, the guy there asked me to take it up with the salesperson who sold me the items I purchased (who has left for the day and will be on leave the next day). The truth is, the customer service there sucks (that's probably enough material for a posting by itself when I have time to write up on that)! On the other hand, I love the other free gift that I got - a Philip blender. I guess you gotta win some and lose some...
Finally called the guy who was supposed to check over the dryer. He told me that the repairs will be RM470 because the motor and belt, both need to be replaced. That is a lot of money, considering that in order to use that, I would need to buy a side-load washing machine and the support to mount the dryer on top - which could easily be another 1.8K atleast. Totalled up to abt 2.2K. So, I am 90% for forgetting about the dryer. I'm going to mull over this for a few days...
We had our first meals cooked in the house this weekend. That was for lunch on Saturday and breakfast on Sunday.
Then, it was to more shopping to filled the many empty spaces and cabinets...
Friday, September 5, 2008
A place to hang out
I needed to go to the management office to fill up some paperwork and a whole group of friends from work went with me during lunch time. The gang went to the cafe at my new place for lunch. It was an ideal arrangement. I get to kill 2 birds: paperwork and lunch, and not having to eat alone. And they get a change of scenery... and some sights since it was dining by the pool, and me with them! Ha Ha!
The cafe lady is now in quite good terms with me since my family and I were frequently there while the renovation was going on. My dad especially enjoys his morning white coffee. I discovered that their 'teh peng' is pretty decent. and the bihun tomyam (which I think may not be spicy enough for ONE person). One thing missing, no laksa in their menu. That would make everything perfect.
The cafe lady is now in quite good terms with me since my family and I were frequently there while the renovation was going on. My dad especially enjoys his morning white coffee. I discovered that their 'teh peng' is pretty decent. and the bihun tomyam (which I think may not be spicy enough for ONE person). One thing missing, no laksa in their menu. That would make everything perfect.
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
Cable TV: Yes or No?
The next dilemma is cable TV. To have or not to have?
This would be under the category of 'nice-to-have'. Still, to have or not to have? It is additional expenditure, monthly. But I would get to watch all the shows that I could only watch on weekends. And free-TV sometimes just have nothing on, that I'm interested to watch. But then, how much time do I actually have to spend infront of the TV on weekdays? or even on weekends for that matter? Does that warrant additional monthly payment? Hmmm.... questions, questions, questions.
It would be nice for when the parents or the kids come over...
On the fence on this.
This would be under the category of 'nice-to-have'. Still, to have or not to have? It is additional expenditure, monthly. But I would get to watch all the shows that I could only watch on weekends. And free-TV sometimes just have nothing on, that I'm interested to watch. But then, how much time do I actually have to spend infront of the TV on weekdays? or even on weekends for that matter? Does that warrant additional monthly payment? Hmmm.... questions, questions, questions.
It would be nice for when the parents or the kids come over...
On the fence on this.
Fridge and Air-Conditioner
My final decision on the fridge-issue is a 2-door Toshiba (the smallest of the range) with a 25% energy saving rate. Atleast that's what the salesperson told me. I also decided to just get one air-cond first because the second room which has no air-cond at the moment, turned out to be pretty cool and with a fan, it is quite pleasant. And after all the surveys, I picked a Hitachi which apparently has a better BTU (compared to Pana, my other choice), which means, faster cooling. It also has longer warranty period and is quieter (than Y**k, old n trusted brand - according to the salesguy).
Both to be installed on Saturday.
Yup, my home is shaping up.
Both to be installed on Saturday.
Yup, my home is shaping up.
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
Water filter
These days no household could possibly be without a water filter. So, onwards my hunt for a water filtration system for my house... To date, I've heard of four brands, Elken, Diamond, Coway and Oasis. O ya, and Amway (although I heard less of this lately). I'm most familiar with Elken, since that's what my parents have at our house, but that system is rather bulky. The rest I'm too familiar with. I've heard of a few unsettling things about Diamond but I've not talked with any degree of seriousness with any agents. Coway, I first heard of it during the furniture fair in PISA a few weeks ago. Oasis, there is that big billboard on the mainland side of the Penang Bridge. No additional info yet. Still no decision...
BC moved (atleast some of my stuff)
I have my mattresses and my TV table! My house is shaping up fast into a home! On Monday evening, I finally had a moment alone with my place. Looking around the place, I almost couldn't believe that the place belongs to me (and the bank, for the time being). It's amazing.
Thanks to my close friends from work, I have a stand fan! It's one of the things on my list of crucial things to have first. It was delivered to my door step (practically) on Sunday afternoon and my parents and I had a fun time assembling it.
To make a home, the kitchen is of utmost importance. I love my dainty cute whistling kettle (not a pink one). Courtesy of my mom, I have spoons and forks (which we bought in Langkawi, couldn't believe she kept those for me!), mugs, plates, bowls and a small pot, and rice! I even have a blender (courtesy of Courts)! Still need to complete the kitchen. Could you believe that I don't have my knife set yet? How could a house not have that basic cooking tool? OK, neither do I have proper cooking pans and pots and utensils. Nor scrubbing sponge for dishes. And a container for sugar! Sugar's still in its plastic package.
It was an amazing weekend, despite the one slight 'experience' when the security guard refused to let the deliveryman drive the lorry to the area near the lift because he (the guard) did not have the form which I had specifically went to the management office (what happened to the management ppl? what did they do to my form?) to fill the week before. But thankfully, the deliverymen were nice enough to carry in the stuff for me from the visitor carpark. To prevent any hassles, I've re-scheduled the fridge delivery to next Saturday. Sad. But still, I feel good in spite of that.
Thanks to my close friends from work, I have a stand fan! It's one of the things on my list of crucial things to have first. It was delivered to my door step (practically) on Sunday afternoon and my parents and I had a fun time assembling it.
To make a home, the kitchen is of utmost importance. I love my dainty cute whistling kettle (not a pink one). Courtesy of my mom, I have spoons and forks (which we bought in Langkawi, couldn't believe she kept those for me!), mugs, plates, bowls and a small pot, and rice! I even have a blender (courtesy of Courts)! Still need to complete the kitchen. Could you believe that I don't have my knife set yet? How could a house not have that basic cooking tool? OK, neither do I have proper cooking pans and pots and utensils. Nor scrubbing sponge for dishes. And a container for sugar! Sugar's still in its plastic package.
It was an amazing weekend, despite the one slight 'experience' when the security guard refused to let the deliveryman drive the lorry to the area near the lift because he (the guard) did not have the form which I had specifically went to the management office (what happened to the management ppl? what did they do to my form?) to fill the week before. But thankfully, the deliverymen were nice enough to carry in the stuff for me from the visitor carpark. To prevent any hassles, I've re-scheduled the fridge delivery to next Saturday. Sad. But still, I feel good in spite of that.
Friday, August 29, 2008
Almost-moving in
The title says it all. After all the worries, I'm finally at the stage of almost moving in. I'm really grateful that I have my mom & dad & cousin brother to coordinate all the efforts for me. Cous Bro got the painter, floor-guy and plumber in. Dad supervised the daily work by the guys. Mom made sure the cabinets/wardrobes are cleaned properly and the curtain is done correctly and various other stuff. Still some to worry, but the place is habitable...
My almost-moving in checklist:
1. Curtains for living room done. Mom showed me her work yesterday and it was pretty good.
2. Gas installed and the kitchen sink tap and outside water filter changed. Still need to test the gas tubing for leakage - paranoid me.
3. Painting work done. I went with Rose Petal from Pentalite Easy Clean for the living room and all other places. and Orange Creme also from Pentalite Easy Clean for my room. The painter uncle advised against going for my initial thoughts of Pearl Glo for reasons that the glow will go off after a while. Anyway, the walls, ceilings, door frames and balcony grills are all painted. Still need to air the place and get rid of the smell.
4. Floor polished. I'm glad this works. The floor is just so lively and pleasant after the w0rks. After all the work, need more cleaning.
5. Mattresses bought - pending delivery. Finally decided on DreamLand Posture Guard Mattress which cost RM599.
6. Sofa bought - pending delivery. I'm getting my leather L-shaped sofa! Yay!
7. TV table bought - pending delivery. Something simple but fits into the allocated area.
8. TVs - transfer from parents' & bro's houses. Cost saving.
My almost-moving in checklist:
1. Curtains for living room done. Mom showed me her work yesterday and it was pretty good.
2. Gas installed and the kitchen sink tap and outside water filter changed. Still need to test the gas tubing for leakage - paranoid me.
3. Painting work done. I went with Rose Petal from Pentalite Easy Clean for the living room and all other places. and Orange Creme also from Pentalite Easy Clean for my room. The painter uncle advised against going for my initial thoughts of Pearl Glo for reasons that the glow will go off after a while. Anyway, the walls, ceilings, door frames and balcony grills are all painted. Still need to air the place and get rid of the smell.
4. Floor polished. I'm glad this works. The floor is just so lively and pleasant after the w0rks. After all the work, need more cleaning.
5. Mattresses bought - pending delivery. Finally decided on DreamLand Posture Guard Mattress which cost RM599.
6. Sofa bought - pending delivery. I'm getting my leather L-shaped sofa! Yay!
7. TV table bought - pending delivery. Something simple but fits into the allocated area.
8. TVs - transfer from parents' & bro's houses. Cost saving.
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
A place to call my own
The phrase sounds so, so good. But the work that's required to prepare that place is really trying and stressful, at times.
Still, this is a recommended endeavour.
In the mean time, I worry. I just finished worrying about colour schemes, but now that the painting is ongoing, more worries cropped up. I worry that I won't get the right fridge. The right TV. a TV table that works and matches with everything else. A sofa that is just right and comfortable and a good buy. Mattresses that are good yet reasonably priced. Which washing machine to get? Should I get the dryer fixed? Do I want a top-load or a side-load washing machine.
Sigh!
Still, this is a recommended endeavour.
In the mean time, I worry. I just finished worrying about colour schemes, but now that the painting is ongoing, more worries cropped up. I worry that I won't get the right fridge. The right TV. a TV table that works and matches with everything else. A sofa that is just right and comfortable and a good buy. Mattresses that are good yet reasonably priced. Which washing machine to get? Should I get the dryer fixed? Do I want a top-load or a side-load washing machine.
Sigh!
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