I would finish my valuer's log book as soon as possible ...
I would put in more effort into my Masters ...
I would learn to control my temper more and lose it a lot less ...
I would remember to be grateful and complain less ...
I would remind myself that I'm worth so much more, that I don't need to take crap from others, that I deserve ...
I would learn to be happy with the things I have within, and learn to live without ...
I would, if I could ... and I can - so I will :)
Friday, December 31, 2004
Thursday, December 30, 2004
Sombre new year
"New Year eve bash cancelled in view of tsunami tragedy" The Star 30/12/2004
So, dashed are plans to catch the annual KLCC fireworks. Although, if further thought were put into it, it would be rather inappropriate to be celebrating when others are mourning.
Calls were made for all to pray for the tsunami victims. Offering spiritual solace, donating to the victims, providing whatever help possible - all very worthy ways of bringing in the new year. A new year, new deeds, new resolutions, new days ahead, a new beginning. The natural disaster threw everyone off their chairs (some more literally than others), and suddenly you realise how fragile life is. That whoever gave life to us has that very ability to take it immediately away. That family and friends should not be taken for granted (however cliche this sounds). That despite such selfish thoughts (i.e. never being able to see the beauty of Phuket again), all of us know now to treasure holidays more.
Disbelief and shock - when I read the SMS my sister sent me while I was shopping in Suntec City, Singapore, saying that 15 people had died in Penang from an earthquake. Earthquake? In Malaysia? Impossible!
Appears that the impossible became possible. Granted, it wasn't an earthquake, but the earthquake caused tidal waves which caused the deaths off Batu Ferringhi in Penang. Watching BBC in the hotel, the horrific pictures of dead bodies along Sri Lankan and Indonesian coastlines were enough to start you wondering if it were all some huge joke. Questions, questions, I'm sure you've got more running through your mind - like I did the past few days. I've read enough blogs and newspaper articles and broadcast websites to know that this disaster caught everyone unaware.
Question : What if today were your last?
So, dashed are plans to catch the annual KLCC fireworks. Although, if further thought were put into it, it would be rather inappropriate to be celebrating when others are mourning.
Calls were made for all to pray for the tsunami victims. Offering spiritual solace, donating to the victims, providing whatever help possible - all very worthy ways of bringing in the new year. A new year, new deeds, new resolutions, new days ahead, a new beginning. The natural disaster threw everyone off their chairs (some more literally than others), and suddenly you realise how fragile life is. That whoever gave life to us has that very ability to take it immediately away. That family and friends should not be taken for granted (however cliche this sounds). That despite such selfish thoughts (i.e. never being able to see the beauty of Phuket again), all of us know now to treasure holidays more.
Disbelief and shock - when I read the SMS my sister sent me while I was shopping in Suntec City, Singapore, saying that 15 people had died in Penang from an earthquake. Earthquake? In Malaysia? Impossible!
Appears that the impossible became possible. Granted, it wasn't an earthquake, but the earthquake caused tidal waves which caused the deaths off Batu Ferringhi in Penang. Watching BBC in the hotel, the horrific pictures of dead bodies along Sri Lankan and Indonesian coastlines were enough to start you wondering if it were all some huge joke. Questions, questions, I'm sure you've got more running through your mind - like I did the past few days. I've read enough blogs and newspaper articles and broadcast websites to know that this disaster caught everyone unaware.
Question : What if today were your last?
Tuesday, December 28, 2004
Singapore spree
Once again, Christmas in Singapore. This time, it was more food than shopping. I think the economy there recovered pretty well from SARs, so we didn't see much discounts in the retail scene that were as fantastic as last year's when they were trying to boost spending. Ah well. Although didn't manage to get things cheap, at least I got stuff that were a better selection than the ones available in Malaysia :P
The highlights of the trip :
Geylang, Lorong 9
This is where the famous "ngau hor" (beef noodles Cantonese-fried) and "tin khai chuk" (frog legs' porridge) is. Came here last year and had to visit it again this year. It's an open hawker's road side stall. A few shops away is a dessert shop that sells great "tau foo fah" with extra long "yau char kway". They're longer than your arm!!
Pek Kio Market, Owen Road, Farrer Park
Great huge big prawn noodles with wonderful tasty prawn soup! I never tasted them better anywhere else! Cost at SGD$8 per bowl, pretty pricey but worth-every-single-cent. To get there, stop at Novena MRT station, take Bus No. 131 to the Pek Kio Market B02 stand.
Crystal Jade Palace, 4th Floor, Ngee Ann City
The queues and crowds of people in front of the restaurant are enough to put you off. But, from another viewpoint, it makes you think what's causing it. The dim sum here is excellent. Quality Hong Kong style dim sum with excellent service. Recommend the porridge especially - authentic, just enough taste, light and yummy. And if you don't convert to RM, the price is pretty reasonable - similar figures to KL restaurants, i.e. RM3 = SGD$3.
Nydc, Suntec City
Serves pasta, baked rice and plenty of cakes. Delicious chocolate cakes that are thoroughly sinful but yummy to the last spoonful. Also has a trademarked drink "elephancinos" which are huge mugs of drinks. Again, if you don't convert, they're similar figures to say, Chili's or TGIF's. You can check out its delicious menu at its very own website.
Hotel New Otani, Singapore
An excellent hotel with Japanese hospitality! Its rooms overlook the Singapore River and it is sited in the happening area of Clarke Quay. Location : 10 minutes leisurely stroll from Clarke Quay MRT station (purple line or NorthEast line), 15 minutes walking distance to Chinatown, 20 minutes walking distance to City Hall. Taxis abundant in the hotel doorstep. Bus stop just across the hotel street, with buses that bring you to just about anywhere. The hotel is atop the Liang Court shopping complex, which has a 7-11, Kinokuniya, Meidi-ya supermarket, McDonald's and Starbucks, among many other things. We got the room at a super special low rate, or else it'd cost us at least RM400 per night! :P I'd stay there again if I could get the same rate back :) However, it's changing management and will change its name to Novotel Clarke Quay on the 1st of January 2005. Rates may go down, hopefully - though I doubt so :)
And now, the pictures!! ;)
The highlights of the trip :
Geylang, Lorong 9
This is where the famous "ngau hor" (beef noodles Cantonese-fried) and "tin khai chuk" (frog legs' porridge) is. Came here last year and had to visit it again this year. It's an open hawker's road side stall. A few shops away is a dessert shop that sells great "tau foo fah" with extra long "yau char kway". They're longer than your arm!!
Pek Kio Market, Owen Road, Farrer Park
Great huge big prawn noodles with wonderful tasty prawn soup! I never tasted them better anywhere else! Cost at SGD$8 per bowl, pretty pricey but worth-every-single-cent. To get there, stop at Novena MRT station, take Bus No. 131 to the Pek Kio Market B02 stand.
Crystal Jade Palace, 4th Floor, Ngee Ann City
The queues and crowds of people in front of the restaurant are enough to put you off. But, from another viewpoint, it makes you think what's causing it. The dim sum here is excellent. Quality Hong Kong style dim sum with excellent service. Recommend the porridge especially - authentic, just enough taste, light and yummy. And if you don't convert to RM, the price is pretty reasonable - similar figures to KL restaurants, i.e. RM3 = SGD$3.
Nydc, Suntec City
Serves pasta, baked rice and plenty of cakes. Delicious chocolate cakes that are thoroughly sinful but yummy to the last spoonful. Also has a trademarked drink "elephancinos" which are huge mugs of drinks. Again, if you don't convert, they're similar figures to say, Chili's or TGIF's. You can check out its delicious menu at its very own website.
Hotel New Otani, Singapore
An excellent hotel with Japanese hospitality! Its rooms overlook the Singapore River and it is sited in the happening area of Clarke Quay. Location : 10 minutes leisurely stroll from Clarke Quay MRT station (purple line or NorthEast line), 15 minutes walking distance to Chinatown, 20 minutes walking distance to City Hall. Taxis abundant in the hotel doorstep. Bus stop just across the hotel street, with buses that bring you to just about anywhere. The hotel is atop the Liang Court shopping complex, which has a 7-11, Kinokuniya, Meidi-ya supermarket, McDonald's and Starbucks, among many other things. We got the room at a super special low rate, or else it'd cost us at least RM400 per night! :P I'd stay there again if I could get the same rate back :) However, it's changing management and will change its name to Novotel Clarke Quay on the 1st of January 2005. Rates may go down, hopefully - though I doubt so :)
And now, the pictures!! ;)
Thursday, December 23, 2004
Jingle bells
You know, no matter how slutty Britney Spears is, her Christmas song is actually quite nice to listen to - bells jingling, sweet voice, nice tune ... just like how Mariah Carey's Christmas song sounds good too. In fact, these 2 songs always gets me Christmassy :)
Once again, taking a trip down to Singapore for the weekend - to join the crowds, squeeze on Orchard Road, ride on endless MRT rides (I've had this dislike for trains ever since London's tubes) ... BUT it shall be fun.
Enjoy your presents, reflect on the past, dream about the future, and promise to be a better person next year ...
Once again, taking a trip down to Singapore for the weekend - to join the crowds, squeeze on Orchard Road, ride on endless MRT rides (I've had this dislike for trains ever since London's tubes) ... BUT it shall be fun.
Enjoy your presents, reflect on the past, dream about the future, and promise to be a better person next year ...
Wednesday, December 15, 2004
The Family Way
Tony Parson does it once again! This time he thrives on and on about babies, women, babies, husbands, babies and more babies! I got this as a present, and nope, I'm not complaining. He's an excellent writer, if you've read his previous 3 books, you'll thoroughly agree with me. This time however, he doesn't speak from the viewpoint of a man. He adopts the vocals of 3 lady protagonists. He doesn't do it as well as he does in the male voice, but the essence is definitely there.
Humourous, witty, touching - very well-written I'd say. If you've never read a single one of his books, go grab one today! I think the first book you read of his will remain your favourite book. I read "Man and Wife" first (his 2nd book I believe), and until now, I still love that book and the emotions it evokes whenever I read it :) A good book should be like that, shouldn't it?
Humourous, witty, touching - very well-written I'd say. If you've never read a single one of his books, go grab one today! I think the first book you read of his will remain your favourite book. I read "Man and Wife" first (his 2nd book I believe), and until now, I still love that book and the emotions it evokes whenever I read it :) A good book should be like that, shouldn't it?
Friday, December 10, 2004
How much are YOU worth?
I've heard that question a couple of times the past week. The first time I heard it was from a good friend who calculated it out mathematically for me. Apparently, I'm basically worth how much I earn, plus the assets I own - which all accumulates to not much, haha :P Hmm, if that's the basis of my worth, think it's time I asked for a raise :P
The second time I heard, or more accurately, read this question was at a blog site I frequent. This time, the question was asked not in the mathematical sense. This is the article that goes with it :
In a brief conversation, a man asked a woman he was pursuing the question : "What kind of man are you looking for?"
She sat quietly for a moment, before looking him in the eye and asking : "Do you really want to know?"
Reluctantly, he said yes.
She began to expound ... "As a woman in this day and age, I am in a position to ask a man what he can do for me that I can't do for myself. I pay my own bills. I take care of my own household without the help of a man, or any woman for that matter. I am in the position to ask 'What can you bring to the table?'"
The man looked at her. Clearly he thought she was referring to money. She quickly corrected his thought and stated, "I'm not referring to money. I need something more. I need a man who is striving for perfection in every aspect of his life."
He sat back in his chair, folded his arms, and asked her to explain.
She said, "I'm looking for someone who is striving for perfection mentally because I need conversation and mental stimulation. I don't need a simple-minded man. I am looking for someone who is striving for perfection spiritually because I don't need to be unequally yoked ... believers mixed with unbelievers is a recipe for disaster. I need a man who is striving for perfection financially because I don't need a financial burden. I am looking for someone who is sensitive enough to understand what I go through as a woman, but strong enough to keep me grounded. I am looking for someone who I can respect. In order to be submissive, I must respect him. I cannot be submissive to a man who isn't taking care of his business. I have no problem being submissive ... he just has to be worthy. God made woman to be a help mate for man. I can't help a man if he can't help himself."
When she finished her spill, she looked at him. He sat there with a puzzled look on his face.
He said, "You're asking a lot."
She replied, "I'm worth a lot."
With 2005 approaching fast, (where did the time go?), it's that time of the year when most of us sit back and re-think the resolutions we made. And what we've achieved. And a time when we make new ones, and start all over again. Next year, I reach my quarter-life point (if I live to be a hundred!). Half a decade ago, I had dreams of what I'd be at this point, what my life looked like, how successful and glamourous life as an adult would be. Like I said, that was 5 years ago ... and that was day-dreaming. But, I'm happy I'm halfway there. Not there yet, but on the right path.
I ask a lot of myself. And it honestly hasn't been easy. At work, perfection appears to breed more work! I guess you can look at it a good way, being efficient and causing more work to be delegated to you, and thus increasing your worth or value to the company - which, conversely, is not aligned with your salary :P And, for the sake of my future, a hopefully bright one, I endure countless nights of ploughing through books just to complete my Masters assignments.
But of others, I have this inanely low expectation. I don't expect people to be nice to me for no reason, don't ask for help if I don't need it, don't bother them unless necessary, and won't rock the boat at all unless it's absolutely essential - maybe I'm just plain accommodative. Some could see that as demeaning others' abilities.
But, if I follow the line of the story, wouldn't that mean that I see my worth as a whole lot less if I expect so lowly of others?
And, if you're the man in the story, wouldn't you think that the woman was asking for so much and wonder if she'd be able to give as much back in return?
BUT, isn't the woman oh so right in putting into such eloquent words the need of every woman??
The second time I heard, or more accurately, read this question was at a blog site I frequent. This time, the question was asked not in the mathematical sense. This is the article that goes with it :
In a brief conversation, a man asked a woman he was pursuing the question : "What kind of man are you looking for?"
She sat quietly for a moment, before looking him in the eye and asking : "Do you really want to know?"
Reluctantly, he said yes.
She began to expound ... "As a woman in this day and age, I am in a position to ask a man what he can do for me that I can't do for myself. I pay my own bills. I take care of my own household without the help of a man, or any woman for that matter. I am in the position to ask 'What can you bring to the table?'"
The man looked at her. Clearly he thought she was referring to money. She quickly corrected his thought and stated, "I'm not referring to money. I need something more. I need a man who is striving for perfection in every aspect of his life."
He sat back in his chair, folded his arms, and asked her to explain.
She said, "I'm looking for someone who is striving for perfection mentally because I need conversation and mental stimulation. I don't need a simple-minded man. I am looking for someone who is striving for perfection spiritually because I don't need to be unequally yoked ... believers mixed with unbelievers is a recipe for disaster. I need a man who is striving for perfection financially because I don't need a financial burden. I am looking for someone who is sensitive enough to understand what I go through as a woman, but strong enough to keep me grounded. I am looking for someone who I can respect. In order to be submissive, I must respect him. I cannot be submissive to a man who isn't taking care of his business. I have no problem being submissive ... he just has to be worthy. God made woman to be a help mate for man. I can't help a man if he can't help himself."
When she finished her spill, she looked at him. He sat there with a puzzled look on his face.
He said, "You're asking a lot."
She replied, "I'm worth a lot."
With 2005 approaching fast, (where did the time go?), it's that time of the year when most of us sit back and re-think the resolutions we made. And what we've achieved. And a time when we make new ones, and start all over again. Next year, I reach my quarter-life point (if I live to be a hundred!). Half a decade ago, I had dreams of what I'd be at this point, what my life looked like, how successful and glamourous life as an adult would be. Like I said, that was 5 years ago ... and that was day-dreaming. But, I'm happy I'm halfway there. Not there yet, but on the right path.
I ask a lot of myself. And it honestly hasn't been easy. At work, perfection appears to breed more work! I guess you can look at it a good way, being efficient and causing more work to be delegated to you, and thus increasing your worth or value to the company - which, conversely, is not aligned with your salary :P And, for the sake of my future, a hopefully bright one, I endure countless nights of ploughing through books just to complete my Masters assignments.
But of others, I have this inanely low expectation. I don't expect people to be nice to me for no reason, don't ask for help if I don't need it, don't bother them unless necessary, and won't rock the boat at all unless it's absolutely essential - maybe I'm just plain accommodative. Some could see that as demeaning others' abilities.
But, if I follow the line of the story, wouldn't that mean that I see my worth as a whole lot less if I expect so lowly of others?
And, if you're the man in the story, wouldn't you think that the woman was asking for so much and wonder if she'd be able to give as much back in return?
BUT, isn't the woman oh so right in putting into such eloquent words the need of every woman??
Sunday, December 05, 2004
Sunday morning
A day you laze and yawn on. Not for super juggler-between-all-kinds-of-obligations-to-all-kinds-of-obligatory-people-and-things. But, enough about me. What's up with you?
Yes, I'm continuing that book binge. John Grisham's King of Torts was, well, very legal. And, if you took out all the law terms and lawyer paraphernalia, you're left with not much of a book. Well, never was a huge Grisham fan - although he did write some pretty good books, most of which have been pretty big films.
Speaking of movies, I'm looking forward to the opening of the IMAX theatre in Times Square. I think it's supposed to open this weekend, with the first 3D showing of The Polar Express. Thought it'd be fun to watch it with those ugly 3D goggles ... but on second thoughts, RM20 per person for a cartoon ... hmmm ....
Now, if it were RM20 per person for Phantom of the Opera, it'd be a different story altogether. Ha ha. If there's nothing else you watch this month, make sure this makes the "Must Watch" list. Only RM10 at major cinemas in the Klang Valley, and even cheaper in other parts of the nation. And I must remember to go get a soundtrack before the movie release ... or it'd cost a bomb later with all the hype and hoo-ha.
I'm slowly slogging through a thoroughly horrible finance assignment right now. Deadline's in a few days. Meanwhile, work is piling up, because everyone else is taking turns with their long annual leaves. Which makes unfortunate me the person who takes up everyone's unfinished jobs. BUT, I've promised myself. It's only going to be another 2 years. Then, I'll be off ... to do whatever I wish to do then. Ah. The threads of hope that offers survival dreams ...
Yes, I'm continuing that book binge. John Grisham's King of Torts was, well, very legal. And, if you took out all the law terms and lawyer paraphernalia, you're left with not much of a book. Well, never was a huge Grisham fan - although he did write some pretty good books, most of which have been pretty big films.
Speaking of movies, I'm looking forward to the opening of the IMAX theatre in Times Square. I think it's supposed to open this weekend, with the first 3D showing of The Polar Express. Thought it'd be fun to watch it with those ugly 3D goggles ... but on second thoughts, RM20 per person for a cartoon ... hmmm ....
Now, if it were RM20 per person for Phantom of the Opera, it'd be a different story altogether. Ha ha. If there's nothing else you watch this month, make sure this makes the "Must Watch" list. Only RM10 at major cinemas in the Klang Valley, and even cheaper in other parts of the nation. And I must remember to go get a soundtrack before the movie release ... or it'd cost a bomb later with all the hype and hoo-ha.
I'm slowly slogging through a thoroughly horrible finance assignment right now. Deadline's in a few days. Meanwhile, work is piling up, because everyone else is taking turns with their long annual leaves. Which makes unfortunate me the person who takes up everyone's unfinished jobs. BUT, I've promised myself. It's only going to be another 2 years. Then, I'll be off ... to do whatever I wish to do then. Ah. The threads of hope that offers survival dreams ...
Wednesday, November 24, 2004
The Brown Binge
It's nice to know that there still exists books that can keep you riveted and glued and transported to another temporary world for a certain amount of time. Finished Dan Brown's Digital Fortress in about 6 hours - the fastest I've ever finished a book of about the same size. And yes, that means I'm now one of those proud people who have completed all of his works! :) Now, if only someone would get me that collector's edition of Da Vinci Code complete with pictures for Christmas - haha, day dreaming indeed!
Yes yes, seem to be on a binge-ing spree on books - not that I buy any of them, thankfully, or I'd be totally broke now. I just started on the Shopaholic series and a whole lot of chic lit ... nice to indulge in that hare-brained, fluffy, superficial world ever once in a while and pretend that we're actually not all that hare-brained, fluffy or superficial. Ah.
Sari and Sins by Nisha Minhas (author of best-selling Chapati & Chips) is also another delightful chic lit book, along with Shopaholic Ties The Knot by Sophie Kinsella. Ooh, indulge indulge :)
And now, have to get back to work. Naughty to steal time off work to blog - tsk tsk. But it's been awhile, hasn't it?
Yes yes, seem to be on a binge-ing spree on books - not that I buy any of them, thankfully, or I'd be totally broke now. I just started on the Shopaholic series and a whole lot of chic lit ... nice to indulge in that hare-brained, fluffy, superficial world ever once in a while and pretend that we're actually not all that hare-brained, fluffy or superficial. Ah.
Sari and Sins by Nisha Minhas (author of best-selling Chapati & Chips) is also another delightful chic lit book, along with Shopaholic Ties The Knot by Sophie Kinsella. Ooh, indulge indulge :)
And now, have to get back to work. Naughty to steal time off work to blog - tsk tsk. But it's been awhile, hasn't it?
Saturday, November 20, 2004
News news!
I wish there was a knob on the TV to turn up the intelligence.
There's a knob called `brightness', but it doesn't work.
How cute is that? I found that while surfing for info on Hanoi vs Saigon aka Ho Chi Minh city. Planning / thinking of going there this Christmas holidays. Trying to decide between the beautifully tranquil Hanoi or the bustling cosmopolitan Saigon.
Also got myself a brand new toy - the Sony Ericsson T630! Camera, bluetooth, 65K TFT screen ... enough features for a pretty affordable phone :)
AND, right before I left for the Raya break, my dad brought back another stray dog! It's a Spitz also but a more beautiful one than Daisy, the one we brought back from SPCA. We've named him Max, with lotsa brown and white fur. So now Max and Daisy rule our garden :)
Yes yes, pictures pictures - coming right up after I get back from a wedding dinner in Tapah, of which I'm leaving for in a couple of hours. Busy busy - haha ...
There's a knob called `brightness', but it doesn't work.
How cute is that? I found that while surfing for info on Hanoi vs Saigon aka Ho Chi Minh city. Planning / thinking of going there this Christmas holidays. Trying to decide between the beautifully tranquil Hanoi or the bustling cosmopolitan Saigon.
Also got myself a brand new toy - the Sony Ericsson T630! Camera, bluetooth, 65K TFT screen ... enough features for a pretty affordable phone :)
AND, right before I left for the Raya break, my dad brought back another stray dog! It's a Spitz also but a more beautiful one than Daisy, the one we brought back from SPCA. We've named him Max, with lotsa brown and white fur. So now Max and Daisy rule our garden :)
Yes yes, pictures pictures - coming right up after I get back from a wedding dinner in Tapah, of which I'm leaving for in a couple of hours. Busy busy - haha ...
Wednesday, November 10, 2004
Pre-hols frenzy!
YESSSS! Just handed in an assignment ... got lotsa work left in office but I don't care ... a whole 6 days away!!! :) Going to be spending it away from the city, so no blogging for 6 whole days - away from all the frenzi-ness of city life! Best of all, it's not just me who's on holiday, but it's practically the entire nation - everyone on holiday mode! What with Deepavali tomorrow ... Raya on Sunday and Monday ... I think most of the nation stopped work today and will only resume running on Wednesday! Well, at least for office workers like me la ;)
I've been looking out for a handphone. Decided to get a Nokia, although Nokia doesn't have the most flattering designs. But, they have cheaper spare parts. So I've decided on the brand. Yet to decide on the model. Want one with a camera, and if the budget fits, maybe an MP3 player?? Haha ... frivolous stuff yah I know ... not a must-have, just a want. Have you seen the latest models by Nokia?? Yummy!
Between The Incredibles and Shark Tale ... which one's better? Haven't seen either ... I'll tell u later. Gonna have a DVD-fest and maybe fit in a cinema outing during the long LONG weekend! :)
IF you found a digital camera on an LRT train (with pictures in the memory card), what would you do?? Keep it? Hand it over to the police? What would you do?? This question is not pure rhetoric, it happened to a friend of mine. We have different views on what's best. And I realised that one should take better care of their own possession in the future :P Tell more later.
Meanwhile, have wonderful wonderful holidays - have a great weekend stuffing yourself with muruku and rendang ...!
I've been looking out for a handphone. Decided to get a Nokia, although Nokia doesn't have the most flattering designs. But, they have cheaper spare parts. So I've decided on the brand. Yet to decide on the model. Want one with a camera, and if the budget fits, maybe an MP3 player?? Haha ... frivolous stuff yah I know ... not a must-have, just a want. Have you seen the latest models by Nokia?? Yummy!
Between The Incredibles and Shark Tale ... which one's better? Haven't seen either ... I'll tell u later. Gonna have a DVD-fest and maybe fit in a cinema outing during the long LONG weekend! :)
IF you found a digital camera on an LRT train (with pictures in the memory card), what would you do?? Keep it? Hand it over to the police? What would you do?? This question is not pure rhetoric, it happened to a friend of mine. We have different views on what's best. And I realised that one should take better care of their own possession in the future :P Tell more later.
Meanwhile, have wonderful wonderful holidays - have a great weekend stuffing yourself with muruku and rendang ...!
Sunday, November 07, 2004
Movies to look out for
I've just noticed that Ella Enchanted and Jersey Girl is only going to be showing in December in GSC. Saw both those movies on the way to London (or was it on the way back from?) ... and Jersey Girl is a very sweet movie. Stars Ben Affleck and Liv Tyler and a cute little girl. Synopsis : Ben Affleck is Ollie Trinke, a man who has to give up a successful high-flying career to take care of his little girl when his wife (incidentally, it's Jennifer Lopez) dies at childbirth. Liv Tyler is the girl he meets later. A very good DVD movie - not really one you watch in the cinemas unless you're out on a date.
Ella Enchanted is a weird kind of movie, not something I liked at all. Maybe the cabin air was getting me really drowsy and irritable, but the movie did not interest me much. It stars Anne Hathaway as the title character (she's the princess in Princess Diaries). Something about Ella being subject to a curse of obedience - having to obey anyone who gives her a direct command, no matter how silly it is. The movie's about her quest to throw off that curse, with many cartoonish characters and fairytale-like scenes along the way. I guess it's a good movie for little kids who'd like the colours and the not-so-funny comical acts :P
Now, the DVD I just recently watched - Love Actually. Beautiful beautiful movie about the different definitions of love - sweet, happy, sad, forgiving, sacrificing, indecisive, bittersweet, the works! Stars a whole host of people including Hugh Grant, Kiera Knightley, Emma Thompson, Liam Neeson, Colin Firth and even Rowan Atkinson! It's a Christmassy movie and makes you feel all nice and tingly after that. Great happy-ending kind of movie :)
And if you check out the next change of GSC movies, there are a few I'm quite excited about :
Phantom of the Opera
Ooh la la! After watching the real thing, I also get to watch this on the silver screen! Happiness is me! :) Must watch, must watch, must watch! Definitely! This is :)
Bridget Jones - The Edge of Reason
I didn't catch the first installment, but I think I'll catch this one - on DVD, that is. Doesn't seem like a cinema kind of show, considering what premium rates KL movies cost. But, Renee Zellweger's always a joy to watch, and this time with 2 men fighting over her :)
Ocean's 12
I think star quality is a huge factor in blockbuster movies. And I guess this is one of them. Brad Pitt, George Clooney, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Julia Roberts, Matt Damon and Andy Garcia. The sequel to Ocean 11, of which I didn't watch too. I'm starting to realise I missed out on plenty of movies - time I rebonded with my DVD player :P
Vanity Fair
Just because it stars Reese Witherspoon. The trailer shows she doesn't look as pretty in traditional English costumes and super Maggi-mee curls as she did in Legally Blonde. Set in the early 19th century (and I love all movies that reflect that period), it appears to be something I'd thoroughly delight in, but of which most guys would fall asleep watching. A trifle like Shakespeare in Love, of which I believe very few guys watched :P
I shall be back with more reviews, hopefully after the Raya break when I've spent the beautifully long break devouring all the DVDs I can get my hands on :)
Ella Enchanted is a weird kind of movie, not something I liked at all. Maybe the cabin air was getting me really drowsy and irritable, but the movie did not interest me much. It stars Anne Hathaway as the title character (she's the princess in Princess Diaries). Something about Ella being subject to a curse of obedience - having to obey anyone who gives her a direct command, no matter how silly it is. The movie's about her quest to throw off that curse, with many cartoonish characters and fairytale-like scenes along the way. I guess it's a good movie for little kids who'd like the colours and the not-so-funny comical acts :P
Now, the DVD I just recently watched - Love Actually. Beautiful beautiful movie about the different definitions of love - sweet, happy, sad, forgiving, sacrificing, indecisive, bittersweet, the works! Stars a whole host of people including Hugh Grant, Kiera Knightley, Emma Thompson, Liam Neeson, Colin Firth and even Rowan Atkinson! It's a Christmassy movie and makes you feel all nice and tingly after that. Great happy-ending kind of movie :)
And if you check out the next change of GSC movies, there are a few I'm quite excited about :
Phantom of the Opera
Ooh la la! After watching the real thing, I also get to watch this on the silver screen! Happiness is me! :) Must watch, must watch, must watch! Definitely! This is :)
Bridget Jones - The Edge of Reason
I didn't catch the first installment, but I think I'll catch this one - on DVD, that is. Doesn't seem like a cinema kind of show, considering what premium rates KL movies cost. But, Renee Zellweger's always a joy to watch, and this time with 2 men fighting over her :)
Ocean's 12
I think star quality is a huge factor in blockbuster movies. And I guess this is one of them. Brad Pitt, George Clooney, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Julia Roberts, Matt Damon and Andy Garcia. The sequel to Ocean 11, of which I didn't watch too. I'm starting to realise I missed out on plenty of movies - time I rebonded with my DVD player :P
Vanity Fair
Just because it stars Reese Witherspoon. The trailer shows she doesn't look as pretty in traditional English costumes and super Maggi-mee curls as she did in Legally Blonde. Set in the early 19th century (and I love all movies that reflect that period), it appears to be something I'd thoroughly delight in, but of which most guys would fall asleep watching. A trifle like Shakespeare in Love, of which I believe very few guys watched :P
I shall be back with more reviews, hopefully after the Raya break when I've spent the beautifully long break devouring all the DVDs I can get my hands on :)
Hunt down the murderer!
Anyone read the Star on Friday morning? If you didn't, here's an article and a picture that goes well with your Sunday morning breakfast - not! :P
I read the Star diligently every morning over breakfast. And I immediately lost my appetite after seeing the picture. An elephant cruelly left to die without her trunk. What happened to compassion, respect for others, kindness? And for that horribly cruel act, the murderer may only be fined RM3,000?? The judiciary ought to re-evaluate the punishments meted out, noting that the laws were made decades ago when RM3,000 was substantial then, but not now.
I've got no particular liking for animals and don't fancy getting my hands dirty to play with or wash them. But I'm soft-hearted and can't bear to see cruelty to animals, because most animals rely on human compassion to survive. Humans, being one of the beings with a supposedly rational brain, should never abuse that power to overcome helpless animals. And the thought that the elephant trunk is going to be sold off to decorate someone's living room, or to be boiled into soup ... I hope the horrible person gets caught and put into prison, although it isn't nice to think such things on a beautiful Sunday morning.
I read the Star diligently every morning over breakfast. And I immediately lost my appetite after seeing the picture. An elephant cruelly left to die without her trunk. What happened to compassion, respect for others, kindness? And for that horribly cruel act, the murderer may only be fined RM3,000?? The judiciary ought to re-evaluate the punishments meted out, noting that the laws were made decades ago when RM3,000 was substantial then, but not now.
I've got no particular liking for animals and don't fancy getting my hands dirty to play with or wash them. But I'm soft-hearted and can't bear to see cruelty to animals, because most animals rely on human compassion to survive. Humans, being one of the beings with a supposedly rational brain, should never abuse that power to overcome helpless animals. And the thought that the elephant trunk is going to be sold off to decorate someone's living room, or to be boiled into soup ... I hope the horrible person gets caught and put into prison, although it isn't nice to think such things on a beautiful Sunday morning.
Saturday, November 06, 2004
The O.C. fan
I accidentally stumbled on this blog site "The Pool House" by this OC fan and boy was I excited! Honestly. I was totally devastated when I realised one Sunday that Friends was showing instead of the OC! Argh! It's been ages since I got hooked to something on TV. The last time I can remember it was probably in the days of Beverly Hills 90210. Goodness, am I being downgraded to a brainless high-school flick?? Oh no, horror of horrors! But ah well, the people look good, have the usual ups and downs of typical Americans and basically lets me space off to a fiction world for an hour every Sunday night. Well, at least, it used to - until I realised that the OC had stopped!
I am a fan, yes I profess to be one. It's a great show, really. And after checking out the official site, and reading the summary of the first episode of Season 2, I'm hanging on tenterhooks waiting and waiting to see when 8tv's gonna air it. It went live tonight in the US, according to the official OC website by Fox TV. Lucky Americans :P
Fox TV's smart ... they ended Season 1 on a thoroughly depressing note, with everyone going separate ways, and the 2 protagonists splitting up. Urgh. Horrible. But left me craving desperately for more - for a happier ending. Feeling a bit better now that I've read the synopsis for Season 2's beginning ... it seems to be heading in the right direction :)
Btw, I somehow think that the Theresa character in the OC is the same girl as the one in Smallville, the one that Clark Kent likes. Is she?
I am a fan, yes I profess to be one. It's a great show, really. And after checking out the official site, and reading the summary of the first episode of Season 2, I'm hanging on tenterhooks waiting and waiting to see when 8tv's gonna air it. It went live tonight in the US, according to the official OC website by Fox TV. Lucky Americans :P
Fox TV's smart ... they ended Season 1 on a thoroughly depressing note, with everyone going separate ways, and the 2 protagonists splitting up. Urgh. Horrible. But left me craving desperately for more - for a happier ending. Feeling a bit better now that I've read the synopsis for Season 2's beginning ... it seems to be heading in the right direction :)
Btw, I somehow think that the Theresa character in the OC is the same girl as the one in Smallville, the one that Clark Kent likes. Is she?
Thursday, November 04, 2004
LASIK eye surgery
The figure - RM10,552/- at promotional price, for both eyes, using the best systems they have available, some Platinum Wavefront Zyoptix thingy.
Gee.
But, apparently, in Malaysia, they're the best - Vista Laser Eye Surgery.
Very very interested. Another want :P
But ooh, it's a want that's definitely above all other wants! Not having to pre-calculate the hours before a late night so my contacts don't dry out ... no need to worry about water games splashing chlorine to my lenses ... no more nose bridge scars from heavy glasses ... having to see everything clearly first thing in the morning ... no more worrying about forgetting to pack solutions and specs when travelling ... the pros seem to be more than the cons huh?
But of course, the cons are there. Money, for one - a whole ten grand. That's a heckuva big con. Although they offer a 0% interest 12-month installment program via your credit card. Which comes to about RM879/- per month. Oh wow! That's practically the monthly installment for an apartment!
There's also other risks which, according to the percentages on the website, are very minimal. Glares in bright light, halos, problems with night driving all appear to be consistently mentioned in most websites discussing LASIK risks. But, there are testimonials as well from people like Lucy Leong, Ross, TJ (all Astro DJs) and a few other people who all seem to harp on about how this surgery changed their lives!
I sound like I'm sold, right? I am, almost. Hmm, anyone know anyone who used LASIK?
Gee.
But, apparently, in Malaysia, they're the best - Vista Laser Eye Surgery.
Very very interested. Another want :P
But ooh, it's a want that's definitely above all other wants! Not having to pre-calculate the hours before a late night so my contacts don't dry out ... no need to worry about water games splashing chlorine to my lenses ... no more nose bridge scars from heavy glasses ... having to see everything clearly first thing in the morning ... no more worrying about forgetting to pack solutions and specs when travelling ... the pros seem to be more than the cons huh?
But of course, the cons are there. Money, for one - a whole ten grand. That's a heckuva big con. Although they offer a 0% interest 12-month installment program via your credit card. Which comes to about RM879/- per month. Oh wow! That's practically the monthly installment for an apartment!
There's also other risks which, according to the percentages on the website, are very minimal. Glares in bright light, halos, problems with night driving all appear to be consistently mentioned in most websites discussing LASIK risks. But, there are testimonials as well from people like Lucy Leong, Ross, TJ (all Astro DJs) and a few other people who all seem to harp on about how this surgery changed their lives!
I sound like I'm sold, right? I am, almost. Hmm, anyone know anyone who used LASIK?
Wednesday, November 03, 2004
TAG!
Yes, I've just added this new feature to my blog! You can drop little messages there, if u hate the "complexities" of dropping comments :)
And check out the "smilies" hyperlink ...
Suddenly, I feel like a kid with a new toy :)
And check out the "smilies" hyperlink ...
Suddenly, I feel like a kid with a new toy :)
Wants
A laptop ... a new handphone ... a car CD/MP3 player ...
All huge and expensive things. Hmm ...
I'm not the kind of person who wants things. But my colleague had this theory that everyone has wants. He then forced me to think of my wants that were reasonably attainable - which meant that a huge palatial bungalow was out of the question.
Then, since I was forced to think, so I thought. And now it's playing and replaying in my mind. Now I know what to do with my bonus when it comes in next year :)
I guess my colleague's theory is true. And, it further proved another point - that the human mind is very flexible and teach-able.
All huge and expensive things. Hmm ...
I'm not the kind of person who wants things. But my colleague had this theory that everyone has wants. He then forced me to think of my wants that were reasonably attainable - which meant that a huge palatial bungalow was out of the question.
Then, since I was forced to think, so I thought. And now it's playing and replaying in my mind. Now I know what to do with my bonus when it comes in next year :)
I guess my colleague's theory is true. And, it further proved another point - that the human mind is very flexible and teach-able.
Tuesday, November 02, 2004
Trip down south
It was an amazingly satisfying trip - albeit utterly tiring for someone who seems to be aging :P
Alcohol plus lack of sleep make for very ineffective public speaking the next morning - as Pei Ping and I realised the when we had to speak to the NLDS juniors as alumni. Urgh - remind me never ever again to do that - goodness knows if we were even legible to those gullible kids :P
Very nice trip though, excellent way to spend the weekend. And being able to spend it with some people you don't see much of too. And realising that the friends you make when you're studying are the friends who will be there for the rest of your life :)
Got some great pics below of the "fun" part of the trip down south. Haven't got any pics of the NLDS part until someone uploads it from their camera and I can get hold of them. Meanwhile, a peek at the great bunch of people who made my weekend :)
Alcohol plus lack of sleep make for very ineffective public speaking the next morning - as Pei Ping and I realised the when we had to speak to the NLDS juniors as alumni. Urgh - remind me never ever again to do that - goodness knows if we were even legible to those gullible kids :P
Very nice trip though, excellent way to spend the weekend. And being able to spend it with some people you don't see much of too. And realising that the friends you make when you're studying are the friends who will be there for the rest of your life :)
Got some great pics below of the "fun" part of the trip down south. Haven't got any pics of the NLDS part until someone uploads it from their camera and I can get hold of them. Meanwhile, a peek at the great bunch of people who made my weekend :)
Tuesday, October 26, 2004
THE Dan Brown
Ultimately, the best novels I've read in a long while. He's written 4 books - I've read 3 of them : Da Vinci Code, Deception Point and Angels & Demons. Just finished the latter an hour ago. Non-stop page-turning suspense. Recommended to everyone.
Having a reading frenzy ever since I got back from London. Rediscovered the joys of reading, because in London, everywhere I went, especially in the Tube, people were reading reading reading. And I got hooked once again.
A few weeks back I finished this book about England during Henry V's time - "The Queen's Fool" by Philippa Gregory. Another fantastic book.
Good books - as defined by me - transport you temporarily to worlds otherwise not available to your physical self. Reading is definitely a delight that I thoroughly enjoyed when I was younger, before I hit university and was too engrossed in so many other activities. Even now, I don't think I can afford the luxury of spending so much time reading - my nights are much shorter now because of that, and my lecture notes seem to be spending less time with me.
But, reading's been ingrained into me since I was a little kid - which explains my glasses. Nonetheless, the world of fiction is your oyster :)
Having a reading frenzy ever since I got back from London. Rediscovered the joys of reading, because in London, everywhere I went, especially in the Tube, people were reading reading reading. And I got hooked once again.
A few weeks back I finished this book about England during Henry V's time - "The Queen's Fool" by Philippa Gregory. Another fantastic book.
Good books - as defined by me - transport you temporarily to worlds otherwise not available to your physical self. Reading is definitely a delight that I thoroughly enjoyed when I was younger, before I hit university and was too engrossed in so many other activities. Even now, I don't think I can afford the luxury of spending so much time reading - my nights are much shorter now because of that, and my lecture notes seem to be spending less time with me.
But, reading's been ingrained into me since I was a little kid - which explains my glasses. Nonetheless, the world of fiction is your oyster :)
Monday, October 25, 2004
It's a beautiful day when ...
You know it is, when he laughs at you pretending to be a broadcaster, reading while he's driving ... when he reaches out to hold your hand and help you leap across the drain ... when he says sorry after he's criticised your clumsiness, although he didn't have to.
You also know it is, when you come home and feel like typing nice stuff into your blog :)
Maybe I'm just looking forward to the long weekend - a trip down to JB with a whole bunch of friends! There's this AIESEC conference going on there at my alma mater, and a whole group of us are going down there to give some support to those juniors - as well as visit some friends who are down south. It's gonna be a nice happy reunion with many people we haven't seen for ages. Beautiful :)
You also know it is, when you come home and feel like typing nice stuff into your blog :)
Maybe I'm just looking forward to the long weekend - a trip down to JB with a whole bunch of friends! There's this AIESEC conference going on there at my alma mater, and a whole group of us are going down there to give some support to those juniors - as well as visit some friends who are down south. It's gonna be a nice happy reunion with many people we haven't seen for ages. Beautiful :)
Friday, October 22, 2004
Here goes - again ...
To be so suddenly informed via email that your blogsite host has suddenly shut down - that has to be something depressing - to say the least. Well it happened to yours truly. But, the bright side says that I can start anew! So now, it's a whole new different kinda entry - I hope - though of course, the essence of me remains ;)
Best part, this host allows me to upload pics! So, look out for some of them - when I figure out how :)
Right now, it's back to the drawing board ... and making myself comfortable in this new house ...
Best part, this host allows me to upload pics! So, look out for some of them - when I figure out how :)
Right now, it's back to the drawing board ... and making myself comfortable in this new house ...
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)