All along, I have been very adverse to the invasion of the Korean wave aka Hallyu and very reluctant to accept that they are becoming part and parcel of our lives. In fact, my body finds kim chi repulsive until today. When everyone was raving over Dae Jang Geum 大長今, I was busy catching up on my American sitcoms.
Until recently, I've begun to slowly accept Korean dramas but I'm still not as obsessed as to watch them when I'm on the train every morning on my way in to work. As geeky as this may sound, I still very much prefer to be reading a book, distracting myself from the daily real life version of Les Misérables, packaged into what I call the 'train sandwich'.
With the permanent re-runs on the cable, I found myself looking forward to the next episodes of some Korean dramas including 大長今. However, I knew I wouldn't die if I don't watch it (you know how some dramas make you feel like if you are not there for the ending, your life is completely ruined?).
But increasingly, I find myself interested in those faces which I still cannot decide if they are good looking. It's not like looking at Hugh Jackman and we'll unanimously go, "WOAH, that's illegally HOT! Blazin' Baby!" Look... Some of the men are incredibly irresistible and some are just... questionable. Women tend to mostly look the same and I swear if I were to go for rhinoplasty one day, I can probably mail order the Korean pop star nose. The only ones that look wrong would be those whose surgery had indeed gone wrong. Otherwise, what's the excuse of looking anything lesser than superficially beautiful. That said, I want one of those noses as well and I'm serious... Since there's very little I can do about my height.
And it didn't help that on a very personal level, some random ex-boyfriend cheated on me on some Korean chick and she's not even pretty. He also went on to knock her up. The rest is history.
All you KPop fans out there, before you go post this on Facebook and condemn me, I would like to state that this is just my opinion and I have a second part to this article.
Months and months of hearing it from almost everyone I know, I finally (by accident) caught an episode of "Running Man" on TV. It's a South Korean variety show featuring a race (akin to Amazing Race) in/at a certain landmark. Even then, I wasn't in a hurry to find out more. It was only until Watziznehm heard about it from his friends, we just decide that we should sit through an entire episode. Then it was episodes after episodes... Before I knew it, I found myself addressing each of them by their names or nicknames and getting well-versed with commonly used terms in the show (in Korean of course).
Kwangsoo, the Giraffe, never fail to make me laugh. The camaraderie amongst the fixed cast is just amazing. And as I got more and more addicted to the show, I (like most of you fans) think I know these people and how they are really like. Kim Jong Kook, better known as Kookie or the Commander or even the Tiger or ... (I can easily take up another paragraph here)... is just so gentle with women. As long as you're a woman, likelihood is that you can bully him all you like. That characteristic just softens me and as much as I don't like beefy men, here's an exception. Like many schoolgirls, I am ever-ready to scream "awww soooo cuuute" but no... He's definitely not cute. His face belongs to the questionable category but there's so much more to him (spoken like a true old buddy). He makes me want to be the little woman quietly following and watching him. The show makes me so interested that I believe my right foot is already in the Korean language school, had it not been my hectic schedule.
Week after week, I find myself trying to get my hands on the latest episode. The recent ones featured them in Macau & Vietnam and there was even a special episode featuring Jackie Chan! Meanwhile, I'm now friends with Kim Jong Kook on Facebook. Believing that it's the real him (I'm the one who chooses to believe Piscine from Life of Pi was genuinely stuck with a Bengal Tiger as a castaway), I enjoyed following every little bit of information that pops up on my NewsFeed every now and then.
The show in itself has evolved and it is still changing every now and then. I must say the producers are incredibly creative with the games simply getting funnier. The last I read, Singapore TV stations are interested to purchase the format. But can I just say, it will not be the same without this cast. And really, Singaporean stations just kill everything they put their hands on. Just leave Running Man alone...
Meanwhile, everyone goes by Oppa, Unnie and Dongsang...
Tuesday, March 19, 2013
Wednesday, February 27, 2013
Help! Bone Marrow Donors Required
Now, here's a sad piece of news. Vince, whom I met during my trip to New York some years back, has become a close friend over the years. We try our best to keep in touch and Facebook, naturally, became the best tool after I gave up on Gtalk.
Vince is the middle child and has an elder brother, Marvin, whom I associate with a really cute doggy, Popcorn. We also know his younger brother, who is the baby of the family, William, gets alot of his love and attention. Recently, William has been hospitalised and eventually diagnosed with a rare form of leukemia that is very difficult to treat and a bone marrow transplant is the primary treatment option.
William’s leukemia is in remission after a series of chemotherapy treatment at the University of Southern California Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, and his doctors are now searching the bone marrow registries for a potential donor for a bone marrow transplant to ensure William remain cancer-free. Both his brothers, Vince and Marvin, are not matches, so we need your help to grow these registries so that there is a better chance of finding matched donors for William and others who need bone marrow transplants!
You can find out more on how to go about taking the first step...
Vince and Marvin have created this website - http://www.supportwilliam.com to help with spreading the word. You will be able to find information on how to help William. You can register and order a donor kit via the Bone Marrow Donor Programme. Or, you can also proceed to the following locations:
Vince is the middle child and has an elder brother, Marvin, whom I associate with a really cute doggy, Popcorn. We also know his younger brother, who is the baby of the family, William, gets alot of his love and attention. Recently, William has been hospitalised and eventually diagnosed with a rare form of leukemia that is very difficult to treat and a bone marrow transplant is the primary treatment option.
William’s leukemia is in remission after a series of chemotherapy treatment at the University of Southern California Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, and his doctors are now searching the bone marrow registries for a potential donor for a bone marrow transplant to ensure William remain cancer-free. Both his brothers, Vince and Marvin, are not matches, so we need your help to grow these registries so that there is a better chance of finding matched donors for William and others who need bone marrow transplants!
You can find out more on how to go about taking the first step...
Vince and Marvin have created this website - http://www.supportwilliam.com to help with spreading the word. You will be able to find information on how to help William. You can register and order a donor kit via the Bone Marrow Donor Programme. Or, you can also proceed to the following locations:
Primary Donor Centres
| Bone Marrow Donor Program | ||
|---|---|---|
| Address: | 46 South Bridge Road #03-01, Kingly Building Singapore 058679 |  |
| Tel: | (65) 6327 1344 | |
| Opening Hours: | Monday to Friday 9.00 am - 6.00 pm Closed on Saturday, Sunday and Public Holidays | |
| National University Hospital | ||
|---|---|---|
| Address: | Blood Donation Centre Level 1, Main Building 1 5 Lower Kent Ridge Road Singapore 119074 |  |
| Tel: | (65) 6772 5356 | |
| Opening Hours: | Monday to Friday: 8.00 am - 5.00 pm Saturday: 8.30 am - 12.30 pm Extended hours on Wednesday until 7.30 pm. Closed on Sundays and Public Holidays | |
| SGH Haematology Centre | ||
|---|---|---|
| Address: | Singapore General Hospital Block 7, Level 2 Outram Road Singapore 169608 |  |
| Tel: | (65) 6321 4722 | |
| Opening Hours: | Weekdays: 9.00am to 4.00pm Saturdays: 9.00am to 12.00noon | |
Thursday, February 07, 2013
Feeding Hundreds
Wedding shopping is dreadful. Shopping for a venue is even more dreadful and at this point in time, it's the most crucial decision we have to make before the venues are all snapped up. I wanted to be chill about this whole affair but I couldn't because the dates we thought we wanted, are all taken up! After planning a special day to visit a slew of venues, we finally just went to one and decided the very next day i.e. today! We have yet to confirm the spot. The hotel doesn't look super impressive on the outside but it's really cosy and pretty grand once you step in. We have also heard the food is great. Once that's cast in stone, everything can take their own sweet time.
Prices have gone up in the span of a few months and I'm pretty worried that I might break the bank for this. That said, as long as the food is good and if my guests enjoy themselves, then I'll be happy.
Prices have gone up in the span of a few months and I'm pretty worried that I might break the bank for this. That said, as long as the food is good and if my guests enjoy themselves, then I'll be happy.
Tuesday, January 22, 2013
The Dress
Every girl wants to look stunning on her big day and that’s a fact!
Many have to manage a budget and is often stuck with very limited options. It doesn’t help that holding a wedding and renovating a house usually occur around the same time. At least, it’s almost true for us. We have been informed that the house will likely be ready by Q1 2014 and if we’re any lucky, it should be done by the end of this year. I do not have a budget but that doesn't mean the sky’s the limit. It only means I don’t know where to start in terms of budgeting until I meet with my wedding planner.
Being the super impatient person that I am, I emailed some of the most renowned gown designers in Singapore and mostly, their portfolio reflects what I want. THE DRESS has got to be simple but the simpler the dress is, the more important is the cutting and workmanship of the gown. Due to some unique circumstances, I have already met with the coordinators of Bridal Veil (by Michelle Huimin). An email also went out to Tan Yoong but his coordinators aren’t half as professional. I have always wanted to be a Tan Yoong bride and I’ve always told myself that as long as I can afford a Tan Yoong gown, nothing can make me compromise. I was wrong. I understand from many ex-Tan Yoong brides that he’s very patient and is a very nice and talented chap and I do not doubt that at all. But it seems that his coordinators aren’t very keen or either that, they’re too famous to entertain one more.
I am likely to go with Bridal Veil but I am not, by any means, settling for less. The moment you email them through the website, they respond within a couple of days. No one else has responded even until today, more than a week after I enquired. The Bridal Consultant sat down with us and patiently entertained the emerging streaks of a bride-zilla from me. She explained the packages without being pushy at all and allowed me to try a couple of gowns, just to see what I like. I felt very comfortable with them and I think they is crucial especially if you want your gown to be Made To Measure (MTM). The material and workmanship from Bridal Veil is among one of the best you can find in Singapore.
This review is not final and there will be more to come…
Sunday, January 20, 2013
Bells Are Ringing
Nothing about Judy Holliday but all about me.
11 Jan 2013 - A flurry of wishes began to attack my Facebook once the clock hit 12. By then, I was fast asleep because celebrations from a day earlier has clearly worn the 32 year old body out. I received flowers from MW like every other year and gifts from colleagues ranged from gag gifts to household products. Unlike the past 2 years, I didn't feel old. I felt life is just beginning and things are starting to take shape. Within me, I have felt some significant changes. Physical changes aside, I believe I have mellowed significantly and I have one person to thank.
Watziznehm checked us into a swanky hotel suite and given the wonderful set up, he did the unimaginable - A super unromantic proposal. Even then, I had no reason to turn him down besides, the bling was blinding! The announcement? - Facebook!
So here goes the wedding planning...
Stay tuned!
11 Jan 2013 - A flurry of wishes began to attack my Facebook once the clock hit 12. By then, I was fast asleep because celebrations from a day earlier has clearly worn the 32 year old body out. I received flowers from MW like every other year and gifts from colleagues ranged from gag gifts to household products. Unlike the past 2 years, I didn't feel old. I felt life is just beginning and things are starting to take shape. Within me, I have felt some significant changes. Physical changes aside, I believe I have mellowed significantly and I have one person to thank.
Watziznehm checked us into a swanky hotel suite and given the wonderful set up, he did the unimaginable - A super unromantic proposal. Even then, I had no reason to turn him down besides, the bling was blinding! The announcement? - Facebook!
So here goes the wedding planning...
Stay tuned!
Friday, January 04, 2013
C'mon 2013
"Such a cliche!" You may exclaim if I write anything along the lines of "Time Flies..." In reality, time did fly past faster than we can capture. I have never stopped reminding myself to "Seize The Day", "Live Every Moment To The Fullest" but instead, I allowed the drudges of the day hold me back. Before I know it, my life got swallowed by the quicksand called time. It is now the time of the year when we stare at our freshly created New Year Resolutions and think we're going to break them at some point in time, tuck them somewhere and forget about them by March.
Year after year, I hear of friends making trips to Niseko for their annual skiing holidays and every year without fail, I told myself, I will go next year (this year included). The one thing holding me back is always financial considerations. I'm a young executive and I should be making a decent living. Although it's been a rather slow year, it hasn't been all that horrible. But yet, I cannot find the spare cash to do so. I don't know if I have grown to be more prudent to ensure an X amount of savings before I spend the rest or have I been more spendthrift and hence, not seeing the savings I should be having. And from single income to dual income, of a sudden, money has become less "versatile". Every single cent that we make seem to have its purpose even before it becomes "available" on our bank statements.
Material things aside, this is one year that I will make good my promise to my body to live healthier. As we age, recovery slows down, aches and pains sneak in and refuse to leave. Annual body checks for cholesterol level makes me feel like I'm taking the O'levels all over again and dreadfully waiting for the results. Given my messy and crappy family's health history, I would say it's about time I be good to myself.
Seeing our development take shape on a daily basis, it's a building reminder that we need to work much harder to be able to furnish our place in our dream format. The house is exactly the force behind my perseverence at work and if there's anything I need to work on, I did to up the persistence ante at work. I must keep at it and overtake myself at every juncture. This year shall be named the "Mad Dog Year" and once I latch on, there's no letting go.
Year after year, I hear of friends making trips to Niseko for their annual skiing holidays and every year without fail, I told myself, I will go next year (this year included). The one thing holding me back is always financial considerations. I'm a young executive and I should be making a decent living. Although it's been a rather slow year, it hasn't been all that horrible. But yet, I cannot find the spare cash to do so. I don't know if I have grown to be more prudent to ensure an X amount of savings before I spend the rest or have I been more spendthrift and hence, not seeing the savings I should be having. And from single income to dual income, of a sudden, money has become less "versatile". Every single cent that we make seem to have its purpose even before it becomes "available" on our bank statements.
Material things aside, this is one year that I will make good my promise to my body to live healthier. As we age, recovery slows down, aches and pains sneak in and refuse to leave. Annual body checks for cholesterol level makes me feel like I'm taking the O'levels all over again and dreadfully waiting for the results. Given my messy and crappy family's health history, I would say it's about time I be good to myself.
Seeing our development take shape on a daily basis, it's a building reminder that we need to work much harder to be able to furnish our place in our dream format. The house is exactly the force behind my perseverence at work and if there's anything I need to work on, I did to up the persistence ante at work. I must keep at it and overtake myself at every juncture. This year shall be named the "Mad Dog Year" and once I latch on, there's no letting go.
Friday, December 21, 2012
One Off The Bucket List - LASIK
Doesn't quite make sense that it's on the bucket list because if I'm going to die, I do not need to see clearly. However, if the world is indeed coming to an end on the 21st, I wouldn't be struggling to find my specs nor to try really hard to spot my loved ones. Then again, I might really need my eye drops.
It's been AT LEAST 6 years of talking about it but what made me take the plunge? Throughout these 6 years or so, I've done countless researches and the more I asked, the more I wanted to do it. When it comes to these things, ironically, I'm a bit of a daredevil or simply because I'm just a little lackadaisical about very important things, hoping for a guardian angel instead.
Cost was another huge factor. I started working in 2006, made good money in the first 2 years which fed an insatiable want for material goods and to feed the wanderlust in me. This only meant when the market tanked during the Global Financial Crisis, I was broke and was facing some serious debts. It didn't help that the company I joined exited Singapore, within months, and I was quickly left unemployed. Things started to stabilise this year but given the big expenditures (wedding & home renovation) expected to haunt us by next year, I was hesitating yet again.
For an entire week, I spoke/Whatsapp-ed/Facebook-ed tirelessly to people who have done it, collating data on various well known ophthalmologists in Singapore, I came to some conclusions:
1. It's almost a 100% (although nothing is 100% so let's give it 99.9%) safe procedure, especially if you pick a good ophthalmologist.
2. Recovery is fast!
3. The side effects are often negligible and it's closely linked to the skills of the particular ophthalmologist. Hence, do not pick one of the "factory line" clinics where they churn patients like donuts.
In conclusion, I picked Dr Lee Hong Ming from Parkway Eye Centre, Gleneagles. He's the guy responsible for my cousin's now perfect eyesight from serious myopia and glaucoma. Most ophthalmologist turned her away but Dr Lee did an incredible job on her. Helps that he's really nice and patient.
The Pre-Lasik Assessment
My eyes were put through all kinds of tests and the most bizarre one spat a gust of air onto my eyeballs. No pain, just mildly shocking. The test for eyesight concluded that I was wearing glasses and contact lenses far too mild for my eyes. I thought I was on 425-450 on each side but in actual fact, I was closer to 600 on each side. I was already half blind so Lasik is probably going to allow me see the world in HD! The eyedrops they used to dilate my pupils made my eyes really sensitive to light and I could barely spot Watziznehm's car when he came to pick me! Do not attempt to drive!
D-Day
Made my way there early in the morning and did the tests all over again to made sure that they have got the stats right. I was then put into this really nice cozy room to wait for my op. While I was there, I heard "tick tick tick" from the laser and I was freaking out! For the first time, I was extremely nervous and I could hear my heart trying to pop its way out of my ribcage.
All memories of the procedure were fuzzy. Everything happened too fast. Technically, I'd be in there for 15 mins but felt more like 5. I was on the chair, a gigantic machine was swung over me, wham bam and next eye... Wham bam and I was out. You mean I just spent a couple of thousands of dollars on that?
I left Watziznehm out there trying out every couch out there and I didn't know I was already in there for almost an hour! Thereafter, I gobbled down my lunch and was knocked out for the rest of the day without any medication at all to help me sleep. This is really miraculous for an insomniac like me.
Day 2
Vision was still a little unclear but damn, it was truly amazing to wake up in the morning and be able to see! I kept thinking I have my contacts on as the discomfort feels like I've over worn my contacts. My left eye didn't stop tearing and for a moment, I was really worried because I couldn't stabilize my left eye when I was told to stare at the red light.
Day 3
Exhausted from a sleepless night and insomnia wasn't exactly helping the recovery. Staring at screens that are backlit was extremely challenging. At this point, I became an expert in dripping eye drops.
Day 4
I was back at work. My left eye was seeing things super clearly but my right eye isn't recovering as well as I had expected. Things were still a bit blur and focusing was taking loads of effort. Working on the computer was quite miserable as both eyes are focusing on different speeds.
Day 5
Was getting entertained on my phone and had to pull the phone away. It was only then I realize that Dr Lee told me that my eyes were slightly overcorrected and my body will learn to adjust. All I needed was more rest. Before that happens, I behave like a 50 year old whenever I'm fidgeting with my phone.
Today, a fortnight later, I regret for not doing this earlier. Having great eyesight is such an understated need. I still think I'm wearing contact lenses when it feels dry but thankfully, my eyes rarely felt like they need the eye drops. My eyes are quite near to perfection although my right eye is still trying to adjust. It is definitely an improvement in terms of the speed of focusing but as compared to my perfect left eye, the right must learn to see again. So if given time to focus, my vision is incredibly clear. Staring at trees and appreciating being able to see every single leaf is a new found joy and privilege.
If I can dish out any advice, I would recommend everyone to identify an ophthalmologist they can trust and get tested for suitability. And if you are indeed suitable, just take the plunge. It's an amazing feeling I can not possibly use the right adjectives to describe.
It's been AT LEAST 6 years of talking about it but what made me take the plunge? Throughout these 6 years or so, I've done countless researches and the more I asked, the more I wanted to do it. When it comes to these things, ironically, I'm a bit of a daredevil or simply because I'm just a little lackadaisical about very important things, hoping for a guardian angel instead.
Cost was another huge factor. I started working in 2006, made good money in the first 2 years which fed an insatiable want for material goods and to feed the wanderlust in me. This only meant when the market tanked during the Global Financial Crisis, I was broke and was facing some serious debts. It didn't help that the company I joined exited Singapore, within months, and I was quickly left unemployed. Things started to stabilise this year but given the big expenditures (wedding & home renovation) expected to haunt us by next year, I was hesitating yet again.
For an entire week, I spoke/Whatsapp-ed/Facebook-ed tirelessly to people who have done it, collating data on various well known ophthalmologists in Singapore, I came to some conclusions:
1. It's almost a 100% (although nothing is 100% so let's give it 99.9%) safe procedure, especially if you pick a good ophthalmologist.
2. Recovery is fast!
3. The side effects are often negligible and it's closely linked to the skills of the particular ophthalmologist. Hence, do not pick one of the "factory line" clinics where they churn patients like donuts.
In conclusion, I picked Dr Lee Hong Ming from Parkway Eye Centre, Gleneagles. He's the guy responsible for my cousin's now perfect eyesight from serious myopia and glaucoma. Most ophthalmologist turned her away but Dr Lee did an incredible job on her. Helps that he's really nice and patient.
The Pre-Lasik Assessment
My eyes were put through all kinds of tests and the most bizarre one spat a gust of air onto my eyeballs. No pain, just mildly shocking. The test for eyesight concluded that I was wearing glasses and contact lenses far too mild for my eyes. I thought I was on 425-450 on each side but in actual fact, I was closer to 600 on each side. I was already half blind so Lasik is probably going to allow me see the world in HD! The eyedrops they used to dilate my pupils made my eyes really sensitive to light and I could barely spot Watziznehm's car when he came to pick me! Do not attempt to drive!
D-Day
Made my way there early in the morning and did the tests all over again to made sure that they have got the stats right. I was then put into this really nice cozy room to wait for my op. While I was there, I heard "tick tick tick" from the laser and I was freaking out! For the first time, I was extremely nervous and I could hear my heart trying to pop its way out of my ribcage.
All memories of the procedure were fuzzy. Everything happened too fast. Technically, I'd be in there for 15 mins but felt more like 5. I was on the chair, a gigantic machine was swung over me, wham bam and next eye... Wham bam and I was out. You mean I just spent a couple of thousands of dollars on that?
I left Watziznehm out there trying out every couch out there and I didn't know I was already in there for almost an hour! Thereafter, I gobbled down my lunch and was knocked out for the rest of the day without any medication at all to help me sleep. This is really miraculous for an insomniac like me.
Day 2
Vision was still a little unclear but damn, it was truly amazing to wake up in the morning and be able to see! I kept thinking I have my contacts on as the discomfort feels like I've over worn my contacts. My left eye didn't stop tearing and for a moment, I was really worried because I couldn't stabilize my left eye when I was told to stare at the red light.
Day 3
Exhausted from a sleepless night and insomnia wasn't exactly helping the recovery. Staring at screens that are backlit was extremely challenging. At this point, I became an expert in dripping eye drops.
Day 4
I was back at work. My left eye was seeing things super clearly but my right eye isn't recovering as well as I had expected. Things were still a bit blur and focusing was taking loads of effort. Working on the computer was quite miserable as both eyes are focusing on different speeds.
Day 5
Was getting entertained on my phone and had to pull the phone away. It was only then I realize that Dr Lee told me that my eyes were slightly overcorrected and my body will learn to adjust. All I needed was more rest. Before that happens, I behave like a 50 year old whenever I'm fidgeting with my phone.
Today, a fortnight later, I regret for not doing this earlier. Having great eyesight is such an understated need. I still think I'm wearing contact lenses when it feels dry but thankfully, my eyes rarely felt like they need the eye drops. My eyes are quite near to perfection although my right eye is still trying to adjust. It is definitely an improvement in terms of the speed of focusing but as compared to my perfect left eye, the right must learn to see again. So if given time to focus, my vision is incredibly clear. Staring at trees and appreciating being able to see every single leaf is a new found joy and privilege.
If I can dish out any advice, I would recommend everyone to identify an ophthalmologist they can trust and get tested for suitability. And if you are indeed suitable, just take the plunge. It's an amazing feeling I can not possibly use the right adjectives to describe.
Monday, December 03, 2012
Before The World Turned Digital
Now that the skeletons are longer haunting me, I can talk about this with a smile on my face. I was cleaning out the closet and found a basketload of cards and letters. I'm glad I have kept them and would encourage everyone to write and give, keep and reminisce. 10 years later, you will look at the silly things you have written or received and I can guarantee that, you will also be having the best time of your life.
So there I was with a basket of cards so I methodically went through one after another. I am definitely not proud of this but I think I broke more hearts than I can remember or wish I did. If life were to repeat, will I be such a cold person all over again? And then I reflected on my life now. According to Watziznehm's, I'm quite an individual person and evidence has shown that I've always been such. I felt sorry for those people who were on the receiving end and got rather angry with myself. I suppose nothing much can be done except to learn from our mistakes. The things we say and do when we were young... The very fact that we had to shoulder no responsibilities at that time not knowing life will slowly introduce us to life and the reality of it, gave us the courage and freedom to say some of the darnest things.
I'm very sure that I can't remember a thing I wrote when I was half my age but what I'm sure is that someone one there will have something I once penned.
Reading through the letters were very therapeutic and made me look rather silly smiling to myself. The best one has got to be the one particular "Get Well Soon" card someone once me together with a pair of toe socks. But perhaps because I couldn't find more evidence of that same person's writing, I tend to treasure it more.
And please laugh with me on this one... "I paged you so many times but you never return my pages. Are you avoiding me?" The above line appeared in several letters from different people. I miss the time of pagers! So before you just post everything onto the database of Facebook in Palo Alto, send them through the mail and expect some love.
So there I was with a basket of cards so I methodically went through one after another. I am definitely not proud of this but I think I broke more hearts than I can remember or wish I did. If life were to repeat, will I be such a cold person all over again? And then I reflected on my life now. According to Watziznehm's, I'm quite an individual person and evidence has shown that I've always been such. I felt sorry for those people who were on the receiving end and got rather angry with myself. I suppose nothing much can be done except to learn from our mistakes. The things we say and do when we were young... The very fact that we had to shoulder no responsibilities at that time not knowing life will slowly introduce us to life and the reality of it, gave us the courage and freedom to say some of the darnest things.
I'm very sure that I can't remember a thing I wrote when I was half my age but what I'm sure is that someone one there will have something I once penned.
Reading through the letters were very therapeutic and made me look rather silly smiling to myself. The best one has got to be the one particular "Get Well Soon" card someone once me together with a pair of toe socks. But perhaps because I couldn't find more evidence of that same person's writing, I tend to treasure it more.
And please laugh with me on this one... "I paged you so many times but you never return my pages. Are you avoiding me?" The above line appeared in several letters from different people. I miss the time of pagers! So before you just post everything onto the database of Facebook in Palo Alto, send them through the mail and expect some love.
Monday, November 26, 2012
The Men In My Life
Got inspired this morning to write about the various men in my life. These are people whose lives have crossed mine and worthy of an anecdote (be it good or bad). And since it's Christmas, I'm sure I will have something good to say about everyone. And since I have found The Man in my life, these will remain the pretty little boxes that you pack it up and leave them along memory lane.
The First Crush - I was 7 and it was my first year in primary school. I thought he was cute and I wanted to marry him some day. Then as I grew older, I came to realise that there are alot more things other than "cute" that you actually marry a guy for. But I must say, it was all sweet and giggly... (with my girlfriends of course) and I bet he never knew.
The Childhood Buddy - While we were waiting for our school bus during age 7-10, this little boy (then) told me that toadstools will "melt" my shoes because they are poisonous. Naturally, I envisioned my beautiful, white shoes sizzling away and was terrified. Thereafter, we took very different paths but as fate will have it, we went to the same school again years later. And because we were neighbours, his Dad was very kind and sent us to school every morning although we still shared very different social circles. A couple of years back, he invited me to his wedding and during his speech, he specially thanked me for attending. I was visibly touched. We were never the best of friends but somehow, he's always THE childhood friend because we once told each other really silly things.
The Eye Candy - Major teenage crush! I was 16 and was in my the final year of secondary school. He was a year older and is totally HOT (IS because he's still HOT even till today after that may years. More of that later...). Everyday without fail, I will look out (from afar) for that super cute face in the canteen during recess time that would brighten me right up. Never once, have I had the courage to approach him to even say hi. Even till today, I have no idea if he knew. Coincidentally, a couple of years back, I walked into a shop in the east looking for skates and as I was leaving, I saw a stack of business cards bearing his name sitting right by the exit. Almost immediately, I turned back and saw the silhouette of a tall, dark & handsome man walking out of the storage room. There he was, the exact suave face that made mine go all cherry red and at that particular moment, I swore my heart skipped a couple of beats. I couldn't believe my luck and this time around, I did pick up the courage to say hi and asked if he attended the same school (duh... like I didn't know...) But since then, my paths never crossed again.
The Basketballer - The first boyfriend who started my dating life. It all began with a mini crush because he was an awesome basketball player and was always the cool, quiet one. I never would have imagined for a million years that I would ever date anyone like him in this lifetime. But I did and the rest is history. Part of that chapter of history bears the mark of a really sweet and warm person who took very good care of me. I chose to leave the relationship because I was convinced that our lives were heading in different directions. He's the typical, "You're great but not for me so thanks but no thanks type." According to Facebook (because he vanished yet son after), he's now happily married with kids and during our very last conversation, he was trying to sell me a car but I had just bought mine then. Oh well...
The Loyang Boy - We were young, we dated and we partied. He watched me throw up and embarrassed myself thoroughly and hopelessly. He carried a very drunk me from the car, cleaned me up and puts me to bed. We went for a drive in his swanky car for the last night that he had it and I, unappreciatively, fell asleep with the wind in my head. He really cared although I will never know if he really loved. He was boyishly cute as far as my memory serves me well but not the gorgeous looker sort. He's down to earth yet exudes a touch of flamboyance. He's smart but not too geeky. He's probably everything I would want in a man but the timing just wasn't right. I was still a child and was extremely wilful. I was still a child (and I can say that now) and my emotions were extremely unstable. If I'm a guy, I wouldn't even date the then me. He was patient and showed his concern in his every little action. It's a pity that I didn't learn to appreciate until much later. But I'm sure he's very happy with his life now.
The Comic Fan - It was thoughts of him (while I was clearing out my drawer of nonsense) that inspired this post. He was the spoilt and pampered kid who was born with a silver spoon and waded in privileges. As a boyfriend, he was very attentive to my little needs and tried his best to accommodate my little quirks. He will buy me little, inexpensive but very well thought out gifts. Eventually, I felt compelled to leave the relationship. Apart from the fact that we were still relatively young and I was still in school, we came from very different family backgrounds. I didn't think I could lead the life of "ask and you will receive". Don't get me wrong and I'm not the angel that you're picturing right now. I love luxurious stuffs and I have been introduced to the evil world of material wants. However, I am working my ass off to get there and more importantly, even at that tender age (and maybe it's from then), I had wanted my partner to be a little hungrier and ambitious. Until today, I'm still very thankful of how wonderful his Mom treated me and I can still remember how adorable his siblings were. I don't know how things would be if I didn't choose to leave and just when I was wondering... During a forum event this year, I ran into him. Not knowing what to say like an immatured lass, I avoided contact. I know I deserve a slap! When I came to realise perhaps I should pop him a note, have a meal and give his whole thing some closure (I wasn't that great with break ups then), he wasn't as responsive as I envisioned. I guess he's still affected by my actions so I can't really blame him. Till date, we have yet to meet for a meal. *Oddly enough, I'm still friends with many of his friends.
The Psycho - Trust me, I am trying to be nice. Ironically, I spent most of my youth with this person. He probably loved and cared for me so much that it became suffocating and even creepy. I suppose if I have nothing better then I shouldn't. He did, however, opened me up to what the material world. I guess I also caught the travel bug from him as well. If anything, I do miss the luxurious surprises but I definitely do not appreciate the threats. Yes, that's how he got "The Psycho". As far as I'm aware, he continues his quest with younger and younger girls.
The Bao - Probably the only one whom I've dated who remained a friend after the breakup. I should have known that we were such different people, we would never be living the happily ever after. But during the times when we were attached, I had some much fun and laughter. I played the big sister to his nieces and nephews and we would spend the lazy Sunday mornings at McDonald's with the kids. We had regular meals with his family.. Just like... Well, a family. Perhaps because of all these, it seems that he was yearning for a family of his own and I, clearly, wasn't quite ready for it. He was an amazing guy who would surprise me with little things and go out of the way to cheer me up. It's a pity I just couldn't see myself with him. If anyone is looking for a great boyfriend, look no further. I admit that the problem laid in me and my big fat head that that I couldn't get around.
The Inspiring One That Got Away - What do I not love about this man? Nothing. He has a wicked sense of humour, carried himself well, good dose of integrity, knew his wines and sports a million dollar dazzling smile. The problem? His messy breakup and that timing was totally wrong. He went on to marry an amazing looking girl and continued living his wonderful life. We were merely friends and will always remaining so. Probably it wasn't meant to be and God meant it that way. He was very optimistic and cheerful. All the energy that would rub off on anyone but to me, out of pure honesty, it got a little tiring after a while.
The Roommate - Funny how life goes round and there are mere 6 degrees of separation. If I don't remember wrongly, our paths crossed because he went to the same camp as The Comic Fan during their NS days and through a Christmas invite (post my break up with The Comic Fan), we became friends. We had a long distant platonic friendship and after promising a visit to LA for years, where he was based, I finally visited him when he moved to NYC. The month in NYC was one of the happiest time of my life. Even while he was working in White Plains, he lived in an apartment in Manhattan and that was the best "hotel" ever even if it didn't have a TV nor a heater. He's like the best girlfriend stuck in a guy's body. He loves fashion but he also likes a hot chick. So yes, he's straight. We would party and he was my wingman! I will always remember walking down quiet Manhattan in the middle of the night during Christmas. We gossip and we talk about the dumbest things in the world. If I'm gonna have a Maid of Honour for my wedding, he's the one.
The Photographer - Maybe it was the way it began and I wasn't wholly interested. I simply needed to bounce onto a warm body. I grew to have so much affection for him that the tables were turned soon after. Throughout the relationship, I found myself to be extremely accommodating and was living my life tip-toeing around his. It was not all bad because we shared some similar interests like cars. He taught me photography and I taught him how to play mahjong. Then came the turning point when he had to go away for a couple of months. Following a period of attempted breakups by him, a very rude wake up call finally allowed me to walk away in peaceful anger.
The Divorcee - a.k.a The Compulsive Liar Perhaps it's not fair for me to make such a judgement. He was afterall a Mr Nice Guy whom everyone adores. He's a father of 2 and claimed that he was officially divorced when I decided to date him. But when you request to see documents (yes, it actually boiled down to that point), they simply do not exist. This was perhaps the mega lie and beneath that, there are still so many little little lies littering the relationship (some of which I only managed to unearth after the relationship). Recalling this relationship makes me really sick. I know I have bad eyesight but I must have been blind. That's a perfectly good reason for me to get LASIK done very soon. Ran into him a while ago and whilst I wasn't angry, I really didn't wish to waste another breath of such an irresponsible idiot.
The FBIL - It's funny how our lives have intertwined. He's the most patient and harmless person I know. The distant memories of us holding onto the phones and talking till we hear each other snore during school days, do bring back fond memories. He's one of those who has fallen into the friend zone early on and I think that's because God knows just how things will be and should be.
The Honey Bear - The man whom I tell almost every damn thing to and if I would trust my life in someone's hands other than The Man and family, it is him. The relationship is absolutely platonic but unlike The Roommate, you know it's not a girl stuck in a guy's body. The best way I can describe is like having an older sibling. I live my life vicariously through his luxurious travels and the stories he tells me. We would both swoon over the nitty gritties of first class food on SIA as he sends over photos. He would send me his cyber hugs when I'm down because he's almost never able to be there physically. He would hate the disgusting men in my life because I hate them and complain about them to him all the time. He would tell me silly things almost every day to cheer me up. He's my best friend whom I rarely get to see.
The Man - Never in my dreams would I picture my future to be so closely related to a man like that. He's not the tall, dark, handsome but he sure is tall. He's not the romantic, he's an engineer and definitely not a sweet talker. Our paths crossed briefly when we were in college but never knew each other's very well until we both bought the same car. All the quirks and wilfulness in me from before, never quite went away although it did mellow. But this is the man who made me look at myself and think twice before I act. Impulsiveness is never the trait I'm proud of. He became my mirror and my reminder. He loves me with so much conviction, I actually think he loves me more than he loves himself. Ok, maybe that's an exaggeration but yes, I shamelessly know for a fact that I'm pretty darn important to him. And for many years down the road, I think we will still fight and argue... But I know, we will also kiss and make up because nothing else is more important than having the other person to walk the walk with. I love you and you know it and I also know you're reading this!
The Brother - The real one. The irritating little brother who grew up to be my best friend whom I can never stop worrying about. We fought, we shouted at one another, we pulled each other's hair, we punched the other's face but in our hearts, we know we love each other. He's the person I can always run back to and have our little chat by the stairwell. We would bitch about our parents, about our partners, about money... We are very different and in the real world, I do not think our paths would ever cross nor will we become friends at all. But because he's my brother, he's also my best friend. I love him to bits.
Lastly, the man who gave me life and taught me all about life - The Dad. I reckon I'm not going to win some Miss Singapore or some idol contest, hence, I would like to use this opportunity to thank him for loving me. It's tough to say that he's been there for me because being a traditional Chinese Dad, he is never ever expressive with his emotions. But his life was spent ensuring that we have a decent life with food on our plates and comfortable shelter over our heads. I am not able to dedicate my entire life to him because I will have my family. But I know Dad has already dedicated his whole life to my brother and I. As a disciplinarian, he ensured that we have our values in the right place and our focus in the bulls'eye. We may not have been the perfect children but we couldn't have asked for more in a Dad.
The First Crush - I was 7 and it was my first year in primary school. I thought he was cute and I wanted to marry him some day. Then as I grew older, I came to realise that there are alot more things other than "cute" that you actually marry a guy for. But I must say, it was all sweet and giggly... (with my girlfriends of course) and I bet he never knew.
The Childhood Buddy - While we were waiting for our school bus during age 7-10, this little boy (then) told me that toadstools will "melt" my shoes because they are poisonous. Naturally, I envisioned my beautiful, white shoes sizzling away and was terrified. Thereafter, we took very different paths but as fate will have it, we went to the same school again years later. And because we were neighbours, his Dad was very kind and sent us to school every morning although we still shared very different social circles. A couple of years back, he invited me to his wedding and during his speech, he specially thanked me for attending. I was visibly touched. We were never the best of friends but somehow, he's always THE childhood friend because we once told each other really silly things.
The Eye Candy - Major teenage crush! I was 16 and was in my the final year of secondary school. He was a year older and is totally HOT (IS because he's still HOT even till today after that may years. More of that later...). Everyday without fail, I will look out (from afar) for that super cute face in the canteen during recess time that would brighten me right up. Never once, have I had the courage to approach him to even say hi. Even till today, I have no idea if he knew. Coincidentally, a couple of years back, I walked into a shop in the east looking for skates and as I was leaving, I saw a stack of business cards bearing his name sitting right by the exit. Almost immediately, I turned back and saw the silhouette of a tall, dark & handsome man walking out of the storage room. There he was, the exact suave face that made mine go all cherry red and at that particular moment, I swore my heart skipped a couple of beats. I couldn't believe my luck and this time around, I did pick up the courage to say hi and asked if he attended the same school (duh... like I didn't know...) But since then, my paths never crossed again.
The Basketballer - The first boyfriend who started my dating life. It all began with a mini crush because he was an awesome basketball player and was always the cool, quiet one. I never would have imagined for a million years that I would ever date anyone like him in this lifetime. But I did and the rest is history. Part of that chapter of history bears the mark of a really sweet and warm person who took very good care of me. I chose to leave the relationship because I was convinced that our lives were heading in different directions. He's the typical, "You're great but not for me so thanks but no thanks type." According to Facebook (because he vanished yet son after), he's now happily married with kids and during our very last conversation, he was trying to sell me a car but I had just bought mine then. Oh well...
The Loyang Boy - We were young, we dated and we partied. He watched me throw up and embarrassed myself thoroughly and hopelessly. He carried a very drunk me from the car, cleaned me up and puts me to bed. We went for a drive in his swanky car for the last night that he had it and I, unappreciatively, fell asleep with the wind in my head. He really cared although I will never know if he really loved. He was boyishly cute as far as my memory serves me well but not the gorgeous looker sort. He's down to earth yet exudes a touch of flamboyance. He's smart but not too geeky. He's probably everything I would want in a man but the timing just wasn't right. I was still a child and was extremely wilful. I was still a child (and I can say that now) and my emotions were extremely unstable. If I'm a guy, I wouldn't even date the then me. He was patient and showed his concern in his every little action. It's a pity that I didn't learn to appreciate until much later. But I'm sure he's very happy with his life now.
The Comic Fan - It was thoughts of him (while I was clearing out my drawer of nonsense) that inspired this post. He was the spoilt and pampered kid who was born with a silver spoon and waded in privileges. As a boyfriend, he was very attentive to my little needs and tried his best to accommodate my little quirks. He will buy me little, inexpensive but very well thought out gifts. Eventually, I felt compelled to leave the relationship. Apart from the fact that we were still relatively young and I was still in school, we came from very different family backgrounds. I didn't think I could lead the life of "ask and you will receive". Don't get me wrong and I'm not the angel that you're picturing right now. I love luxurious stuffs and I have been introduced to the evil world of material wants. However, I am working my ass off to get there and more importantly, even at that tender age (and maybe it's from then), I had wanted my partner to be a little hungrier and ambitious. Until today, I'm still very thankful of how wonderful his Mom treated me and I can still remember how adorable his siblings were. I don't know how things would be if I didn't choose to leave and just when I was wondering... During a forum event this year, I ran into him. Not knowing what to say like an immatured lass, I avoided contact. I know I deserve a slap! When I came to realise perhaps I should pop him a note, have a meal and give his whole thing some closure (I wasn't that great with break ups then), he wasn't as responsive as I envisioned. I guess he's still affected by my actions so I can't really blame him. Till date, we have yet to meet for a meal. *Oddly enough, I'm still friends with many of his friends.
The Psycho - Trust me, I am trying to be nice. Ironically, I spent most of my youth with this person. He probably loved and cared for me so much that it became suffocating and even creepy. I suppose if I have nothing better then I shouldn't. He did, however, opened me up to what the material world. I guess I also caught the travel bug from him as well. If anything, I do miss the luxurious surprises but I definitely do not appreciate the threats. Yes, that's how he got "The Psycho". As far as I'm aware, he continues his quest with younger and younger girls.
The Bao - Probably the only one whom I've dated who remained a friend after the breakup. I should have known that we were such different people, we would never be living the happily ever after. But during the times when we were attached, I had some much fun and laughter. I played the big sister to his nieces and nephews and we would spend the lazy Sunday mornings at McDonald's with the kids. We had regular meals with his family.. Just like... Well, a family. Perhaps because of all these, it seems that he was yearning for a family of his own and I, clearly, wasn't quite ready for it. He was an amazing guy who would surprise me with little things and go out of the way to cheer me up. It's a pity I just couldn't see myself with him. If anyone is looking for a great boyfriend, look no further. I admit that the problem laid in me and my big fat head that that I couldn't get around.
The Inspiring One That Got Away - What do I not love about this man? Nothing. He has a wicked sense of humour, carried himself well, good dose of integrity, knew his wines and sports a million dollar dazzling smile. The problem? His messy breakup and that timing was totally wrong. He went on to marry an amazing looking girl and continued living his wonderful life. We were merely friends and will always remaining so. Probably it wasn't meant to be and God meant it that way. He was very optimistic and cheerful. All the energy that would rub off on anyone but to me, out of pure honesty, it got a little tiring after a while.
The Roommate - Funny how life goes round and there are mere 6 degrees of separation. If I don't remember wrongly, our paths crossed because he went to the same camp as The Comic Fan during their NS days and through a Christmas invite (post my break up with The Comic Fan), we became friends. We had a long distant platonic friendship and after promising a visit to LA for years, where he was based, I finally visited him when he moved to NYC. The month in NYC was one of the happiest time of my life. Even while he was working in White Plains, he lived in an apartment in Manhattan and that was the best "hotel" ever even if it didn't have a TV nor a heater. He's like the best girlfriend stuck in a guy's body. He loves fashion but he also likes a hot chick. So yes, he's straight. We would party and he was my wingman! I will always remember walking down quiet Manhattan in the middle of the night during Christmas. We gossip and we talk about the dumbest things in the world. If I'm gonna have a Maid of Honour for my wedding, he's the one.
The Photographer - Maybe it was the way it began and I wasn't wholly interested. I simply needed to bounce onto a warm body. I grew to have so much affection for him that the tables were turned soon after. Throughout the relationship, I found myself to be extremely accommodating and was living my life tip-toeing around his. It was not all bad because we shared some similar interests like cars. He taught me photography and I taught him how to play mahjong. Then came the turning point when he had to go away for a couple of months. Following a period of attempted breakups by him, a very rude wake up call finally allowed me to walk away in peaceful anger.
The Divorcee - a.k.a The Compulsive Liar Perhaps it's not fair for me to make such a judgement. He was afterall a Mr Nice Guy whom everyone adores. He's a father of 2 and claimed that he was officially divorced when I decided to date him. But when you request to see documents (yes, it actually boiled down to that point), they simply do not exist. This was perhaps the mega lie and beneath that, there are still so many little little lies littering the relationship (some of which I only managed to unearth after the relationship). Recalling this relationship makes me really sick. I know I have bad eyesight but I must have been blind. That's a perfectly good reason for me to get LASIK done very soon. Ran into him a while ago and whilst I wasn't angry, I really didn't wish to waste another breath of such an irresponsible idiot.
The FBIL - It's funny how our lives have intertwined. He's the most patient and harmless person I know. The distant memories of us holding onto the phones and talking till we hear each other snore during school days, do bring back fond memories. He's one of those who has fallen into the friend zone early on and I think that's because God knows just how things will be and should be.
The Honey Bear - The man whom I tell almost every damn thing to and if I would trust my life in someone's hands other than The Man and family, it is him. The relationship is absolutely platonic but unlike The Roommate, you know it's not a girl stuck in a guy's body. The best way I can describe is like having an older sibling. I live my life vicariously through his luxurious travels and the stories he tells me. We would both swoon over the nitty gritties of first class food on SIA as he sends over photos. He would send me his cyber hugs when I'm down because he's almost never able to be there physically. He would hate the disgusting men in my life because I hate them and complain about them to him all the time. He would tell me silly things almost every day to cheer me up. He's my best friend whom I rarely get to see.
The Man - Never in my dreams would I picture my future to be so closely related to a man like that. He's not the tall, dark, handsome but he sure is tall. He's not the romantic, he's an engineer and definitely not a sweet talker. Our paths crossed briefly when we were in college but never knew each other's very well until we both bought the same car. All the quirks and wilfulness in me from before, never quite went away although it did mellow. But this is the man who made me look at myself and think twice before I act. Impulsiveness is never the trait I'm proud of. He became my mirror and my reminder. He loves me with so much conviction, I actually think he loves me more than he loves himself. Ok, maybe that's an exaggeration but yes, I shamelessly know for a fact that I'm pretty darn important to him. And for many years down the road, I think we will still fight and argue... But I know, we will also kiss and make up because nothing else is more important than having the other person to walk the walk with. I love you and you know it and I also know you're reading this!
The Brother - The real one. The irritating little brother who grew up to be my best friend whom I can never stop worrying about. We fought, we shouted at one another, we pulled each other's hair, we punched the other's face but in our hearts, we know we love each other. He's the person I can always run back to and have our little chat by the stairwell. We would bitch about our parents, about our partners, about money... We are very different and in the real world, I do not think our paths would ever cross nor will we become friends at all. But because he's my brother, he's also my best friend. I love him to bits.
Lastly, the man who gave me life and taught me all about life - The Dad. I reckon I'm not going to win some Miss Singapore or some idol contest, hence, I would like to use this opportunity to thank him for loving me. It's tough to say that he's been there for me because being a traditional Chinese Dad, he is never ever expressive with his emotions. But his life was spent ensuring that we have a decent life with food on our plates and comfortable shelter over our heads. I am not able to dedicate my entire life to him because I will have my family. But I know Dad has already dedicated his whole life to my brother and I. As a disciplinarian, he ensured that we have our values in the right place and our focus in the bulls'eye. We may not have been the perfect children but we couldn't have asked for more in a Dad.
Monday, November 19, 2012
Potato Salad Recipe
Here's my personal recipe for some really evil potato salad. After fine tuning it several times, trying out with different combinations, I have determined that this is the best tasting marriage as far.
1 bag (about 1 kg equivalent) of washed Red-skinned Potatoes (or Gold Yukon) - I've tried the different potatoes. I personally love Russet's texture but Russets will disintegrate when we're mixing. This is a heavy salad so the tossing isn't an easy task. Cover the potatoes with water and bring it to a boil. Add a tea spoon of salt into the water. Salt, no only adds flavour to your potatoes, it also brings up the boiling point of the water (although this is often disputed as the amount of salt is just insignificant). Boil the potatoes in whole and leave the skin on. The skin gives it the additional texture and I highly suspect the nutritional value is probably retained in the skin. After the water is brought to boil, let it simmer for 25-30 minutes until your fork can poke through the potatoes at ease.
300g of streaky bacon - Cut the sliced bacon approximately into 1" x 1" squares. Use a tiny bit of oil to even out the heat in the pan and to prevent the bacon from sticking to the bottom of the pan. Any bits to the pan stuck will turn dark and gives the salad an awful colour when you mix the bacon it. The fats from the bacon will then cook itself. It will reach a point when the fats from the bacon will "deep fry" itself until it turns golden brown. Drain the bacon from the oily and leave it to cool.
4 eggs - Boil the eggs and sometimes, I just throw it into the pot of potatoes. Peel the eggs and smash the eggs using a fork. The space between the fork creates the right width/texture for our salad.
1 white onion - Cut into into fine tiny cubes. The finer you chop it, the less likely the consumer will chomp into a mouthful of... well, onions. I do like a bit of crunch though.
Mix all of the above with mayonaise. Add rock salt and crack in some black pepper to taste. Garnish it with chopped spring onions (aka scallions). I love how the spring onions actually "upgrades" the taste of the salad.
Get fat with me!
1 bag (about 1 kg equivalent) of washed Red-skinned Potatoes (or Gold Yukon) - I've tried the different potatoes. I personally love Russet's texture but Russets will disintegrate when we're mixing. This is a heavy salad so the tossing isn't an easy task. Cover the potatoes with water and bring it to a boil. Add a tea spoon of salt into the water. Salt, no only adds flavour to your potatoes, it also brings up the boiling point of the water (although this is often disputed as the amount of salt is just insignificant). Boil the potatoes in whole and leave the skin on. The skin gives it the additional texture and I highly suspect the nutritional value is probably retained in the skin. After the water is brought to boil, let it simmer for 25-30 minutes until your fork can poke through the potatoes at ease.
300g of streaky bacon - Cut the sliced bacon approximately into 1" x 1" squares. Use a tiny bit of oil to even out the heat in the pan and to prevent the bacon from sticking to the bottom of the pan. Any bits to the pan stuck will turn dark and gives the salad an awful colour when you mix the bacon it. The fats from the bacon will then cook itself. It will reach a point when the fats from the bacon will "deep fry" itself until it turns golden brown. Drain the bacon from the oily and leave it to cool.
4 eggs - Boil the eggs and sometimes, I just throw it into the pot of potatoes. Peel the eggs and smash the eggs using a fork. The space between the fork creates the right width/texture for our salad.
1 white onion - Cut into into fine tiny cubes. The finer you chop it, the less likely the consumer will chomp into a mouthful of... well, onions. I do like a bit of crunch though.
Mix all of the above with mayonaise. Add rock salt and crack in some black pepper to taste. Garnish it with chopped spring onions (aka scallions). I love how the spring onions actually "upgrades" the taste of the salad.
Get fat with me!
Friday, November 16, 2012
If you haven't heard of WeChat, you need to seriously keep up with the world. Just like Whatsapp, WeChat is a multimedia messaging platform for mobile phones. But unlike Whatsapp, WeChat is keeping up with the times.
To start, WeChat is stretched to fit the iPhone 5 and Whatsapp is still stuck in medieval times. The Whatsapp window just looks weird. Apart from the fact that it's not utilising the longer screen of the phone, the OCD side of me just find the black patches irk me.
Also, the convenient switch to voice chat only means that I can send a message to a friend who may be driving or cooking. I'm not encouraging texting and driving at the same time but your passenger will be able to just play it for you or sending out a text which requires only a fraction of the effort taking up ONE second at the traffic lights. Not to mention if you're living in very different time zones, you can drop your friend a "voice message" that can be picked up anytime at their convenience.
Being Asian, having emoticons in my messages just add that bit of sparkle and fun. And do you know, that if you send a message with "Happy Birthday" in it, icons of cakes will drop from the top of the screen. It's not a tool of utility but hey, it is interesting. If there are other "codes" that trigger other icons "falling", do inform me!
Whatsapp, you have to pull up your sock before you lose your market share which you have built up over the years... Slowly but surely...
Go download your WeChat now! If you must know... I'm not getting paid a single cent by them...
***Update*** The day after I published this article, the update was out and viola, Whatsapp is catching up! I'm not deleting this as I feel that they still need to improve and the speed done in today's context, is far from acceptable. But well done... For now!
To start, WeChat is stretched to fit the iPhone 5 and Whatsapp is still stuck in medieval times. The Whatsapp window just looks weird. Apart from the fact that it's not utilising the longer screen of the phone, the OCD side of me just find the black patches irk me.
Also, the convenient switch to voice chat only means that I can send a message to a friend who may be driving or cooking. I'm not encouraging texting and driving at the same time but your passenger will be able to just play it for you or sending out a text which requires only a fraction of the effort taking up ONE second at the traffic lights. Not to mention if you're living in very different time zones, you can drop your friend a "voice message" that can be picked up anytime at their convenience.
Being Asian, having emoticons in my messages just add that bit of sparkle and fun. And do you know, that if you send a message with "Happy Birthday" in it, icons of cakes will drop from the top of the screen. It's not a tool of utility but hey, it is interesting. If there are other "codes" that trigger other icons "falling", do inform me!
Whatsapp, you have to pull up your sock before you lose your market share which you have built up over the years... Slowly but surely...
Go download your WeChat now! If you must know... I'm not getting paid a single cent by them...
***Update*** The day after I published this article, the update was out and viola, Whatsapp is catching up! I'm not deleting this as I feel that they still need to improve and the speed done in today's context, is far from acceptable. But well done... For now!
Sunday, October 14, 2012
Recipe: French Toast
This is a simple and basic recipe which I believe many of you either know or can find it on other websites. But I made a batch today which I thought, they are good enough to share.
3-4 slices of fresh bread (Cut into quarters)
2 eggs
A teaspoon of brown sugar (Better with cinnamon sugar though)
A dash of salt
Milk (estimating about 2 teaspoons?)
Butter
Beat up the eggs with the sugar, milk, salt and some melted butter. Dip the bread into the eggs and leave it for a couple of seconds to soak up the mixture. Using medium heat on the frying pan, lay the bread on the pan until they turn golden brown. Simple as that. Do control the fire as the mixture contains sugar and butter so it burns easily.
Serve with some clotted cream aka Devonshire cream and some nice hot Earl Grey and you have your perfect, easy afternoon tea within 5 mins. Kids love them too!
3-4 slices of fresh bread (Cut into quarters)
2 eggs
A teaspoon of brown sugar (Better with cinnamon sugar though)
A dash of salt
Milk (estimating about 2 teaspoons?)
Butter
Beat up the eggs with the sugar, milk, salt and some melted butter. Dip the bread into the eggs and leave it for a couple of seconds to soak up the mixture. Using medium heat on the frying pan, lay the bread on the pan until they turn golden brown. Simple as that. Do control the fire as the mixture contains sugar and butter so it burns easily.
Serve with some clotted cream aka Devonshire cream and some nice hot Earl Grey and you have your perfect, easy afternoon tea within 5 mins. Kids love them too!
Posted with BlogsySaturday, October 13, 2012
Cycling Cleats
Hear it from the newbie...
Whenever you see cyclists after they dismount from their bikes, they start to walk funny. That's because they are on cycling cleats. These are attachments that are permanently fixed onto your cycling shoes which will eventually "click in" with their other half of the magnetic combo that's affixed to the bike. For seasoned cyclists, clicking in and out of their cleats is second nature but to newbies like me, one will need to give it some time to get accustomed to the cleats. Otherwise, the end result would be a fall. Or in some cases like mine, a couple of falls.
Fortunately or unfortunately for me, I had a (rather embarrasing) fall during my first day on my cleats when I was practising outside Fat Cat Cycles. I suffered a couple of bruises and I was a brave little girl, up and running (rather, cycling) again. I became wary every time when I'm needed to approach a stop, let alone traffic lights with cars all around me. Well, the topic on safety for Singaporean cyclist will need to wait...
Just when I thought I've gotten the hang of things...
Was out on a ride with some chaps and as we approached the lagoon for our Cheng Tng, in full view of the diners, I came to a complete stop and shifted my weight to the correct side. However, I didn't realise that a slight twitch of the handle bar would send me the other way. And it did. So now you have it, more bruises on the shin, thighs and ego.
Whenever you see cyclists after they dismount from their bikes, they start to walk funny. That's because they are on cycling cleats. These are attachments that are permanently fixed onto your cycling shoes which will eventually "click in" with their other half of the magnetic combo that's affixed to the bike. For seasoned cyclists, clicking in and out of their cleats is second nature but to newbies like me, one will need to give it some time to get accustomed to the cleats. Otherwise, the end result would be a fall. Or in some cases like mine, a couple of falls.
Fortunately or unfortunately for me, I had a (rather embarrasing) fall during my first day on my cleats when I was practising outside Fat Cat Cycles. I suffered a couple of bruises and I was a brave little girl, up and running (rather, cycling) again. I became wary every time when I'm needed to approach a stop, let alone traffic lights with cars all around me. Well, the topic on safety for Singaporean cyclist will need to wait...
Just when I thought I've gotten the hang of things...
Was out on a ride with some chaps and as we approached the lagoon for our Cheng Tng, in full view of the diners, I came to a complete stop and shifted my weight to the correct side. However, I didn't realise that a slight twitch of the handle bar would send me the other way. And it did. So now you have it, more bruises on the shin, thighs and ego.
Aren't they gorgeous? Well, these cleats look GREY in flesh and if you're expecting it to be white, be prepared to be disappointed.
Tuesday, October 02, 2012
Bali Retreat
It was a holiday that we have been anticipating for months! The counting down came to an end and we found ourselves flying off mid work week and how awesome is that!
Right before the trip, I injured myself and left a chunk of me on the bathroom door that "attacked" me. I am quite sure it was the door's fault. *pout* The morning that I was flying off, I got into the car and it refused to start. I was faced with a likely case of a flat battery. These didn't help when we were on the plane and a newspaper article reminded us that it was the anniversary of the Bali bombing and it was a sky high alert for tourists visiting this sandy haven. I was quite glad that I bought some travel insurance but regretted that I didn't purchase one with a higher premium. Having said that, all the worries was left behind when we arrived at Denpasar.
Due to road works, the usual trip to from the airport to Jimbaran stretched from 20 minutes to more than an hour. When we got to our villa, as hungry as we were because plane food REALLY sucked, we only wanted to veg out and do absolutely nothing. However, planning a trip with a bunch of girlies only meant that we have our massages and pedicures all scheduled. The holiday started on the beautiful note - A full body massage. Shortly after, it was another hour's ride back from Seminyak as we watched the sunset from inside the cab.
Dinner with the Aussie offices was pretty much an overdue get-together. We were finally able to put faces to the names while having some new names to register. Sand in feet, nestled right beside the sea, the ambience was amazing... If you would just ignore the mozzies and their excruciatingly itchy bites. Post dinner, all we wanted to do was to veg out by our pool and that was exactly what we did. The holiday couldn't have started better.
In the next few days, our schedule basically repeats itself. Massages, traffic jams in cabs, good food, chilling out by the pool, too much alcohol and cigarettes, catching up on the abandoned books, late nights and awesome breakfasts...
Few things worth a mention:
Sea Circus - http://seacircus-bali.com/
... Tucked in a little corner in Seminyak (accessible via rear entrance of Bodyworks), this little cafe provided us with a place to chill while we waited to get kneaded at Bodyworks. The food wasn't anything to shout about but it was decent. In fact, it was more than we expected. The service was amazing. They rushed the food out because we were running out of time and volunteered to help us with a group photo. Definitely a nice place to chill with the girls while you gossip about the boys...
Prana Spa - http://www.pranaspabali.com/
... We found this on the internet based on some recommendations but we remained rather skeptical. The massage was really decent. The well equipped changing room meant that you can spend some time to dress out before going for your big dinner, which was what we did. Ku De Ta and Potatohead are both just a short cab ride away.
Potatohead - http://www.ptthead.com/
... Some people swore by it, some thought it was overrated. I needed to see it for myself. Food was average, perhaps a bit better than average. There are separate areas for drinks and dining. Farm dining. We enjoyed the place partly because the company was great. It helped that they were beside the sea where the surf was huge and the air was really cool. A walk down the beach with a champagne in hand is guilty pleasure, probably one one of favourite moments in Bali. The only drawback is that the smoking area is away from the dining area so that felt like we're back in Singapore.
Ahimsa, Jimbaran - http://www.theahimsa.com/
... Last but not least, the villa which we were staying in. The service was excellent. The villas were well-maintained and we were really well taken care of. Nothing I can fault except that we would really love to be nearer to Seminyak. Then again, we were 5 mins walk away from an awesome beach. I would love to go back there.
This trip was complete with the right company but I needed more of the half hearted tan that I'm wearing now. But I still feel rather incomplete the very moment silence dawn on me, the reminder that we're returning to reality. I'm already missing Bali...
Right before the trip, I injured myself and left a chunk of me on the bathroom door that "attacked" me. I am quite sure it was the door's fault. *pout* The morning that I was flying off, I got into the car and it refused to start. I was faced with a likely case of a flat battery. These didn't help when we were on the plane and a newspaper article reminded us that it was the anniversary of the Bali bombing and it was a sky high alert for tourists visiting this sandy haven. I was quite glad that I bought some travel insurance but regretted that I didn't purchase one with a higher premium. Having said that, all the worries was left behind when we arrived at Denpasar.
Due to road works, the usual trip to from the airport to Jimbaran stretched from 20 minutes to more than an hour. When we got to our villa, as hungry as we were because plane food REALLY sucked, we only wanted to veg out and do absolutely nothing. However, planning a trip with a bunch of girlies only meant that we have our massages and pedicures all scheduled. The holiday started on the beautiful note - A full body massage. Shortly after, it was another hour's ride back from Seminyak as we watched the sunset from inside the cab.
Dinner with the Aussie offices was pretty much an overdue get-together. We were finally able to put faces to the names while having some new names to register. Sand in feet, nestled right beside the sea, the ambience was amazing... If you would just ignore the mozzies and their excruciatingly itchy bites. Post dinner, all we wanted to do was to veg out by our pool and that was exactly what we did. The holiday couldn't have started better.
In the next few days, our schedule basically repeats itself. Massages, traffic jams in cabs, good food, chilling out by the pool, too much alcohol and cigarettes, catching up on the abandoned books, late nights and awesome breakfasts...
Few things worth a mention:
Sea Circus - http://seacircus-bali.com/
... Tucked in a little corner in Seminyak (accessible via rear entrance of Bodyworks), this little cafe provided us with a place to chill while we waited to get kneaded at Bodyworks. The food wasn't anything to shout about but it was decent. In fact, it was more than we expected. The service was amazing. They rushed the food out because we were running out of time and volunteered to help us with a group photo. Definitely a nice place to chill with the girls while you gossip about the boys...
Prana Spa - http://www.pranaspabali.com/
... We found this on the internet based on some recommendations but we remained rather skeptical. The massage was really decent. The well equipped changing room meant that you can spend some time to dress out before going for your big dinner, which was what we did. Ku De Ta and Potatohead are both just a short cab ride away.
Potatohead - http://www.ptthead.com/
... Some people swore by it, some thought it was overrated. I needed to see it for myself. Food was average, perhaps a bit better than average. There are separate areas for drinks and dining. Farm dining. We enjoyed the place partly because the company was great. It helped that they were beside the sea where the surf was huge and the air was really cool. A walk down the beach with a champagne in hand is guilty pleasure, probably one one of favourite moments in Bali. The only drawback is that the smoking area is away from the dining area so that felt like we're back in Singapore.
Ahimsa, Jimbaran - http://www.theahimsa.com/
This trip was complete with the right company but I needed more of the half hearted tan that I'm wearing now. But I still feel rather incomplete the very moment silence dawn on me, the reminder that we're returning to reality. I'm already missing Bali...
Tuesday, September 11, 2012
Tiger 2000-2012 - My Best Friend
It was a difficult decision but I knew in my heart, that was the right and rational decision.
Tiger was my first pet. Mom bought it for us during Fathers' Day in 2000. I was advised to pick the most energetic puppy of the litter but the mild one caught my eye. He went home with me and what I didn't expect, our interesting jouney began.
I named him Tiger after Woods won his US Masters green jacket. He accompanied me through college and law school. All the nights I spent with my books, he was on my bed, accompanying me through the trying periods. He believed in me.
Tiger was a difficult pet to train. He wasn't the smartest dog but he was the most loyal. Despite my anger when he chewed up my heels, he still loved me. I gave him a hard time when he didn't want to finish his food. He was a picky eater and even with snacks, he was extremely selective. Like me, he only wanted the best. So, we all tried to give him our best.
He was the only dog my cousin, XMR, was willing to touch as though he dispelled all her fears for dogs. My younger cousins started to point towards other dogs and called them "Tiger!" He was good with the kids and the kids adored him. He became their favourite playmate and they always look forward to meeting Tiger. No matter how they squashed him and chased him, Tiger never bit nor barked at them.
On one occasion, Tiger began barking at the door but we refused to open it for him because we were all too busy. When we finally got to opening the door, our bikes outside were stolen. Then on, we will always open the door for him to have a peep whenever he barks at the door.
My late Grandma who never liked pets, seemed to have a soft spot for Tiger. She would call Tiger to go to her, in her Teochew laced English, and pet him to sleep. More often, she would doze off before Tiger did. But Tiger would always pretend to be sleeping just to please Grandma.
When I was going through food poisoning in Shanghai, all I wanted was to have Tiger with me. I thought of him over my parents or friends. He was THE friend. If only he was there with me, I could brave all the drips and injections without much fear. All I had was a picture of him with me.
When he was 7, the vet told us we needed to put him down. He had stones in his urinary tract and with small animals like these, it would be almost impossible to remove those stones. Dr Jean-Paul Ly then recommended an operation that would remove his entire urinary tract and in the process, Tiger was be transformed to a girl. But we still called him our good boy. Tiger lived happily for a few more good years. Even though it meant I couldn't buy a car for the time being then, it was all well worth it.
Earlier this year, his skin was giving problems and he could barely function. We later found out that the skin problems were due to a heart problem. His bloated belly was a cause for worry so we had to seek medical attention. We were told that he may not have much longer to live as his weak heart is unable to pump out the fluid from his stomach. Every few weeks, we had to bring him back to the vet to get the fluid removed. He will return to his active (well, not THAT active) self until the fluid builds up again. In recent months, the frequency of our visits to the vet became shorter and his suffering became more visible and audible. But being the brave dog that he was, he didn't winge or whine much. He could barely sleep because lying down would be pressing the fluid in his stomach to his lungs causing breathing difficulties. Mom and Dad brought him back from the vet week after another in hope that he will get better.
The vet's diagnosis was grim. We were very grateful to have an experienced and caring vet, Dr Francis Tay, to guide us along the way. We knew it was terminal and there was nothing we could do. But we were never prepared to put him to sleep hoping that one day, a heart attack will take him away really quick during his sleep. That never happened and his conditions got worse.
On Sunday night when I moved back to my parents', I sat down with Tiger. Sharing my problems with him, just like the old times. He snuggled up against me but he could barely walk. When I carried him, he felt so heavy with all the fluid in him. Then I knew it was time... But I didn't say much.
Weirdly enough, on Monday morning, Mom called and said she wanted to make an appointment for Tiger to see the vet, perhaps to take the fluid out of his stomach yet again. The only appointment she could get was the last appointment of the day at 6pm. Financially we all knew it was straining us but we all refused to let his life be determined by money. But rationally, I had to tell my parents that maybe it is best that we let him drift into deep sleep. My parents reasoned out within themselves and I believe it's a battle going on inside their hearts. They concluded that putting him to perpetual sleep was the best for him as well. They were the ones watching him suffer on a daily basis. When we got there, they couldn't do it and I didn't want to especially when I saw Tiger staring right at me. Dad was hoping to get a positive answer from the vet when he asked if he'd get better if we try to remove the fluid from his stomach yet again. It would have been yet another trip of trying to prolong his life.
Then I took a very close look at Tiger. I took some pictures of him. It was in the sunset. He looked out of the clinic and his face showed resignation. He was probably telling me, "I love you but I'm sorry. I'm old and I have to go." I knew I had to make a rational decision.
I will always have a photo to remind me that you have once loved me this unconditionally and if you could, you would take every step of my life with me.
I called Attituder who lost her dogs not very long ago. She gave me some encouragement and made me look past my emotions. By then, I have lost all the ability to speak as I was choking on my own tears.
After 12.5 years, it's finally the time. My parents left the decision to me and left the room as they didn't have the courage to watch him go. I stayed to watch. I gave him a last kiss and bade my last farewell. I stroked his fur for a final time and thanked him for all the time and the unconditional love.
I hope he is now in a better place without pain and suffering. My pain will slowly go away but my love for him will forever remain. There will never be another dog like him.
The process was very quick and peaceful. He didn't fight. I think he knew. I knew but he was still loving me although I'm deciding to put him to sleep. He never gave up on me.
Special thanks to Animal Recovery Centre for all the dedication and patience.
Tiger, you were my best friend. I love you but I know my love for you is nothing compared to your unconditional love for me. All the times that you have accompanied Mom and Dad when I wasn't there for them, thank you. All the tears I have shed, you were right there consoling me. Thank you. You have never given up on me. Thank you for the wonderful 12 years. You're irreplaceable.
You will be missed.
Rest in peace.
Tiger 2000 - 2012
Tiger was my first pet. Mom bought it for us during Fathers' Day in 2000. I was advised to pick the most energetic puppy of the litter but the mild one caught my eye. He went home with me and what I didn't expect, our interesting jouney began.
I named him Tiger after Woods won his US Masters green jacket. He accompanied me through college and law school. All the nights I spent with my books, he was on my bed, accompanying me through the trying periods. He believed in me.
Tiger was a difficult pet to train. He wasn't the smartest dog but he was the most loyal. Despite my anger when he chewed up my heels, he still loved me. I gave him a hard time when he didn't want to finish his food. He was a picky eater and even with snacks, he was extremely selective. Like me, he only wanted the best. So, we all tried to give him our best.
He was the only dog my cousin, XMR, was willing to touch as though he dispelled all her fears for dogs. My younger cousins started to point towards other dogs and called them "Tiger!" He was good with the kids and the kids adored him. He became their favourite playmate and they always look forward to meeting Tiger. No matter how they squashed him and chased him, Tiger never bit nor barked at them.
On one occasion, Tiger began barking at the door but we refused to open it for him because we were all too busy. When we finally got to opening the door, our bikes outside were stolen. Then on, we will always open the door for him to have a peep whenever he barks at the door.
My late Grandma who never liked pets, seemed to have a soft spot for Tiger. She would call Tiger to go to her, in her Teochew laced English, and pet him to sleep. More often, she would doze off before Tiger did. But Tiger would always pretend to be sleeping just to please Grandma.
When I was going through food poisoning in Shanghai, all I wanted was to have Tiger with me. I thought of him over my parents or friends. He was THE friend. If only he was there with me, I could brave all the drips and injections without much fear. All I had was a picture of him with me.
When he was 7, the vet told us we needed to put him down. He had stones in his urinary tract and with small animals like these, it would be almost impossible to remove those stones. Dr Jean-Paul Ly then recommended an operation that would remove his entire urinary tract and in the process, Tiger was be transformed to a girl. But we still called him our good boy. Tiger lived happily for a few more good years. Even though it meant I couldn't buy a car for the time being then, it was all well worth it.
Earlier this year, his skin was giving problems and he could barely function. We later found out that the skin problems were due to a heart problem. His bloated belly was a cause for worry so we had to seek medical attention. We were told that he may not have much longer to live as his weak heart is unable to pump out the fluid from his stomach. Every few weeks, we had to bring him back to the vet to get the fluid removed. He will return to his active (well, not THAT active) self until the fluid builds up again. In recent months, the frequency of our visits to the vet became shorter and his suffering became more visible and audible. But being the brave dog that he was, he didn't winge or whine much. He could barely sleep because lying down would be pressing the fluid in his stomach to his lungs causing breathing difficulties. Mom and Dad brought him back from the vet week after another in hope that he will get better.
The vet's diagnosis was grim. We were very grateful to have an experienced and caring vet, Dr Francis Tay, to guide us along the way. We knew it was terminal and there was nothing we could do. But we were never prepared to put him to sleep hoping that one day, a heart attack will take him away really quick during his sleep. That never happened and his conditions got worse.
On Sunday night when I moved back to my parents', I sat down with Tiger. Sharing my problems with him, just like the old times. He snuggled up against me but he could barely walk. When I carried him, he felt so heavy with all the fluid in him. Then I knew it was time... But I didn't say much.
Weirdly enough, on Monday morning, Mom called and said she wanted to make an appointment for Tiger to see the vet, perhaps to take the fluid out of his stomach yet again. The only appointment she could get was the last appointment of the day at 6pm. Financially we all knew it was straining us but we all refused to let his life be determined by money. But rationally, I had to tell my parents that maybe it is best that we let him drift into deep sleep. My parents reasoned out within themselves and I believe it's a battle going on inside their hearts. They concluded that putting him to perpetual sleep was the best for him as well. They were the ones watching him suffer on a daily basis. When we got there, they couldn't do it and I didn't want to especially when I saw Tiger staring right at me. Dad was hoping to get a positive answer from the vet when he asked if he'd get better if we try to remove the fluid from his stomach yet again. It would have been yet another trip of trying to prolong his life.
Then I took a very close look at Tiger. I took some pictures of him. It was in the sunset. He looked out of the clinic and his face showed resignation. He was probably telling me, "I love you but I'm sorry. I'm old and I have to go." I knew I had to make a rational decision.
I will always have a photo to remind me that you have once loved me this unconditionally and if you could, you would take every step of my life with me.
I called Attituder who lost her dogs not very long ago. She gave me some encouragement and made me look past my emotions. By then, I have lost all the ability to speak as I was choking on my own tears.
After 12.5 years, it's finally the time. My parents left the decision to me and left the room as they didn't have the courage to watch him go. I stayed to watch. I gave him a last kiss and bade my last farewell. I stroked his fur for a final time and thanked him for all the time and the unconditional love.
I hope he is now in a better place without pain and suffering. My pain will slowly go away but my love for him will forever remain. There will never be another dog like him.
The process was very quick and peaceful. He didn't fight. I think he knew. I knew but he was still loving me although I'm deciding to put him to sleep. He never gave up on me.
Special thanks to Animal Recovery Centre for all the dedication and patience.
Tiger, you were my best friend. I love you but I know my love for you is nothing compared to your unconditional love for me. All the times that you have accompanied Mom and Dad when I wasn't there for them, thank you. All the tears I have shed, you were right there consoling me. Thank you. You have never given up on me. Thank you for the wonderful 12 years. You're irreplaceable.
You will be missed.
Rest in peace.
Tiger 2000 - 2012
Tuesday, September 04, 2012
Ruth's Chris Steak House
Finally our very own Ruth's Chris Steak House, a new haven for beef lovers like me?
I've decided to surprise Watziznehm by bringing him for an unexpected treat. To cheer him up on a lousy day, I made reservations at Ruth's Chris. The phone call should have been an indication of the service I was going to get. The girl was definitely polite but she couldn't make out what she was trying to say and I could barely understand her. She couldn't even get numbers right when I was trying to recite my phone number out to her! I wanted to make reservations for 7pm but I was told they only have spots for 6.30pm or 7.30pm. And so, I settled for 7.30pm thinking I won't be able to make it in time for 6.30pm. She also asked if it was for any special occasion like an anniversary, I just replied yes because it was... Just a couple of days late.
Expecting a full house at 7.15pm, I was made to wait at the door for 10 mins while they sorted out the seating. When I was finally led through the restaurant... Surprise! It was almost empty. Clearly, a well-suited manager seemed to be waiting on a table of food bloggers armed with flashing cameras and paying customers like us are left waiting for service? Besides, the slew of inconsiderate strong flashes continued interrupting our dinner. To be fair, our server was really attentive and during times when we understood what he was trying to say, he was marvellous. But I just couldn't figure out, why wasn't I able to start my meal at 7pm?
First to serve up was the blue crab cake. It was served on these incredibly hot plates which sizzles when you squeeze the beautifully wrapped lemon on it. The taste was beautifully sweet and every mouthful was tender, fresh, real crab meat. One little "but" though, it appears as if the entire dish was supposed to be served hot. Crabs are naturally cold so I wasn't afraid it was uncooked since they would have blanched it. But the inside of the dome shaped crab cake was significantly cooler than the exterior of the cake. I suspect it was quickly heated up before it was served but the time in the oven was perhaps a tad short. Nonetheless, it was still our favourite dish of the day. I will give it a 8.5 out of 10.
And because the crab cake wasn't as ginormous as how some bloggers described it to be, we had to add the BBQ shrimps to our order. I can only say the dish is overpriced and taste wise, it belongs to one with an acquired tongue. It was definitely a little better than average but it's a feeling that leaves one wanting. The spices were incredible so maybe I'm just unappreciative. 6 out of 10
Now comes the main part although in other circumstances, I would have labelled it as "the best part". Similarly, the plate was sizzling hot but only the part of the steak that was in contact with the plate was hot! The rest of the meat was cool-ish. Well, I understand as a medium rare steak, I shouldn't be asking for a full hot steak but c'mon, it's at least hot on the outside! It was so disappointing because it was supposed to be our highlight! The beef was a good quality USDA ribeye with the right amount of marbling but I couldn't decide if the kitchen murdered the steak or if it was meant to be served this way. The steak was served perfectly medium rare as per my request but unexpectedly, cooler than Charlie Brown. It was very reasonable priced though. 6.5 out of 10
As for the au gratin, which I ordered as accompaniment to the steak, was a complete waste of time. It was the only dish that was piping hot but the taste was ordinary and cheese didn't felt like it was of superior quality. I couldn't rate this dish... I gave up after 2 mouthfuls.
At the end of the dinner, I was too stuffed and didn't want to try the cheesecake. Besides, I couldn't take anymore disappointment. That's said, it's probably a very reasonably priced steakhouse for decent quality beef. Just pray that you turn up on a day which they're not preoccupied in their marketing attempts. I left the restaurant thinking why did she ask if it was a special occasion because they did nothing special for us. Try it for yourself and let me know what you think.
For me, Bedrock is still right up there with the crown.
I've decided to surprise Watziznehm by bringing him for an unexpected treat. To cheer him up on a lousy day, I made reservations at Ruth's Chris. The phone call should have been an indication of the service I was going to get. The girl was definitely polite but she couldn't make out what she was trying to say and I could barely understand her. She couldn't even get numbers right when I was trying to recite my phone number out to her! I wanted to make reservations for 7pm but I was told they only have spots for 6.30pm or 7.30pm. And so, I settled for 7.30pm thinking I won't be able to make it in time for 6.30pm. She also asked if it was for any special occasion like an anniversary, I just replied yes because it was... Just a couple of days late.
Expecting a full house at 7.15pm, I was made to wait at the door for 10 mins while they sorted out the seating. When I was finally led through the restaurant... Surprise! It was almost empty. Clearly, a well-suited manager seemed to be waiting on a table of food bloggers armed with flashing cameras and paying customers like us are left waiting for service? Besides, the slew of inconsiderate strong flashes continued interrupting our dinner. To be fair, our server was really attentive and during times when we understood what he was trying to say, he was marvellous. But I just couldn't figure out, why wasn't I able to start my meal at 7pm?
First to serve up was the blue crab cake. It was served on these incredibly hot plates which sizzles when you squeeze the beautifully wrapped lemon on it. The taste was beautifully sweet and every mouthful was tender, fresh, real crab meat. One little "but" though, it appears as if the entire dish was supposed to be served hot. Crabs are naturally cold so I wasn't afraid it was uncooked since they would have blanched it. But the inside of the dome shaped crab cake was significantly cooler than the exterior of the cake. I suspect it was quickly heated up before it was served but the time in the oven was perhaps a tad short. Nonetheless, it was still our favourite dish of the day. I will give it a 8.5 out of 10.
And because the crab cake wasn't as ginormous as how some bloggers described it to be, we had to add the BBQ shrimps to our order. I can only say the dish is overpriced and taste wise, it belongs to one with an acquired tongue. It was definitely a little better than average but it's a feeling that leaves one wanting. The spices were incredible so maybe I'm just unappreciative. 6 out of 10
Now comes the main part although in other circumstances, I would have labelled it as "the best part". Similarly, the plate was sizzling hot but only the part of the steak that was in contact with the plate was hot! The rest of the meat was cool-ish. Well, I understand as a medium rare steak, I shouldn't be asking for a full hot steak but c'mon, it's at least hot on the outside! It was so disappointing because it was supposed to be our highlight! The beef was a good quality USDA ribeye with the right amount of marbling but I couldn't decide if the kitchen murdered the steak or if it was meant to be served this way. The steak was served perfectly medium rare as per my request but unexpectedly, cooler than Charlie Brown. It was very reasonable priced though. 6.5 out of 10
As for the au gratin, which I ordered as accompaniment to the steak, was a complete waste of time. It was the only dish that was piping hot but the taste was ordinary and cheese didn't felt like it was of superior quality. I couldn't rate this dish... I gave up after 2 mouthfuls.
At the end of the dinner, I was too stuffed and didn't want to try the cheesecake. Besides, I couldn't take anymore disappointment. That's said, it's probably a very reasonably priced steakhouse for decent quality beef. Just pray that you turn up on a day which they're not preoccupied in their marketing attempts. I left the restaurant thinking why did she ask if it was a special occasion because they did nothing special for us. Try it for yourself and let me know what you think.
For me, Bedrock is still right up there with the crown.
Monday, August 27, 2012
National Day Rally
This will be an extremely short post and in fact, I could pass off as a tweet but I will attempt to use the least amount of words to get my message across. I've always maintained a WIP, personal letter to the head of state and it contains my views and visions for this nation. But as social media repeatedly brings out the ugly side of Singaporeans, I have learnt to keep my comments in and my hopes out.
There were several occasions during last night's live telecast of the National Day Rally delivered by Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong and some members of his team. Lee Hsien Loong spoke of all Singaporeans like his children. The very sincere messages were close to our hearts and his words hit it right home.
As far as my memory serves me, when LHL took over, many criticised that senior Mr Lee had Goh Chok Tong warm the "throne" for his eldest son in the "Lee empire". As of last night, I had an epiphany - Goh Chok Tong, whether he was a seat warmer or not, he was an impressive Prime Minister and during his "reign", the nation prospered. Though I may not be entirely happy with some choices I had to made just because I'm just born a Singaporean, I grew up a happy child and a satisfied citizen. As I watched our current Prime Minister carefully picked his words as not to offend prickly Singaporeans, his sincerity and messages touched me. I came to realise that senior Mr Lee didn't just pick his son out of selfish intentions. Instead, he picked a trusted and impressive successor who is radically different but incredibly fitting in current context. Today, with overwhelming emotions, I'm glad to announce that I'm a proud Singaporean. We have so much room to improve but we need each other to do that.
Even with so much issues internally, I'm beginning to see some light at the end of the tunnel. As long as we remember what he said...
Hope. Heart. Home.
I read an article this morning and it touched on my pet subject.
#silencethehate
Let's just try this today - Give way to someone, whether you are on the road or a mere commuter on the train. When someone extends their kindness, say thanks or a simple wave while you're on the wheel. Let the grace start from you...
Ok, this is why I couldn't fit the message on Twitter...
There were several occasions during last night's live telecast of the National Day Rally delivered by Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong and some members of his team. Lee Hsien Loong spoke of all Singaporeans like his children. The very sincere messages were close to our hearts and his words hit it right home.
As far as my memory serves me, when LHL took over, many criticised that senior Mr Lee had Goh Chok Tong warm the "throne" for his eldest son in the "Lee empire". As of last night, I had an epiphany - Goh Chok Tong, whether he was a seat warmer or not, he was an impressive Prime Minister and during his "reign", the nation prospered. Though I may not be entirely happy with some choices I had to made just because I'm just born a Singaporean, I grew up a happy child and a satisfied citizen. As I watched our current Prime Minister carefully picked his words as not to offend prickly Singaporeans, his sincerity and messages touched me. I came to realise that senior Mr Lee didn't just pick his son out of selfish intentions. Instead, he picked a trusted and impressive successor who is radically different but incredibly fitting in current context. Today, with overwhelming emotions, I'm glad to announce that I'm a proud Singaporean. We have so much room to improve but we need each other to do that.
Even with so much issues internally, I'm beginning to see some light at the end of the tunnel. As long as we remember what he said...
Hope. Heart. Home.
I read an article this morning and it touched on my pet subject.
#silencethehate
Let's just try this today - Give way to someone, whether you are on the road or a mere commuter on the train. When someone extends their kindness, say thanks or a simple wave while you're on the wheel. Let the grace start from you...
Ok, this is why I couldn't fit the message on Twitter...
Monday, July 23, 2012
Peter Sagan - The Tourminator
Let me first qualify, I'm not a super cyclist and in fact, I only started this year and well, I have to admit that I haven't been riding enough. I complain non-stop trying to finish a 30-40 km ride and the pain in my tailbone is putting off anymore rides until I can find a better saddle. The search continues... But to be sitting in front of the telly armed with chips and soda, I was right in my element.
When Tour de France started this year, I was glued to the gorgeous looking Mark Cavendish in his rainbow jersey that marks the world champion. With Team Sky all decked out in Kask helmets complete with team colours which I almost bought if not for the weight (My weird head shape meant only the Kask and OGK fits me), paired with the legendary Pinarello Dogma 2s and complete with the way the team rides almost like they're dancing in some arranged formation, I was a fan! At this point, I was quite comfortable with the impending fact that Team Sky is going to take home both the yellow and green jersey (I didn't even know what the yellow and green jersey meant before this!).
For one Slovak prodigy, Peter Sagan, this Tour de France is his debut. He couldn't have made his presence with more impact. At a mere 22 years of age, I think we're about to see the cycling scene change (not that I have seen much before). All I know is how cute and amazing Mark Cavendish is... That said, my focus was starting to slowly shift when Sagan won Stage 1 beating Fabian Cancellara, the yellow jersey favourite. The shift has also got to do with the fact that I'm a Cannondale rider (I can't afford a Pinarello!) and more importantly, Watziznehm has one of those SuperSix Evo frames that Team Liquigas is on.
I know this is rather anti-climax but here's how my frame looks like but I have the Ultegra groupset on with some swanky SLK cranks, which in pro terms, it's peanuts. But I love my bike and I call it, Sky Sully. The above mentioned Evo is called Bike Wazowski!
On with Peter Sagan...
With his hands on his hips, he took the green jersey and never once gave it up. He will slowly earn his new nickname, The Tourminator, in the coming days. According to other sources, Sagan was first tagged the Terminator from his mountain biking days because he was destroying wheels and tires! Anyway, his first win but I've yet to figure out what movie his winning move was after...
Video Link's Broken - Sourcing for better ones...
If the above win gave you an idea of how much power this looker has packed in him, check out his Stage 3 win a.k.a the Forrest Gump win. He's looking really cute. "Win, Peter, Win!" How amazing!
Video Link's Broken - Sourcing for better ones...
At Stage 6, it may seem like Andre Greipel was slowly eroding Sagan's glory but the Hulk is not about to let it go. With a fabulously powerful late dash, the green jersey was once again in the safe hands of Peter Sagan.
No video of the win but here's a summary...
Video Link's Broken - Sourcing for better ones...
Here's something I found on road.cc
Stage winner Peter Sagan, Liquigas-Cannondale
“I'm very happy when I can win a stage like today. Yesterday I was unlucky with the crash but also content that nothing was broken and that I didn't have any injuries. I don't want to be compared with other riders, I want to be Peter Sagan.
“I was near the front when the crash happened but the two riders who were ahead were pushed and this forced me to brake; behind me was Vincenzo Nibali who also had to brake and behind us was the crash. This is the race, this is the Tour de France and it's very nervous. The accident was on a downhill and we were going very fast and it's very dangerous.
“Another win and I called this one ‘The Hulk'. I want the green jersey and I think I can hold on to it all the way to Paris.
“This is already more than I ever expected. It's surprised me too. I wanted to do well but I need to say that this is only the start of the Tour de France and tomorrow is when the race really begins because it's the climbs and I think that after two weeks, by the start of the third week, it's going to be really hard.
“I think I did well today because the other sprinters are a little tired and maybe that's the key to this win.”
Well, the above marks the 3 wins he totalled within 2012's Tour de France but the glory didn't stop there. He's now better known as the youngest winner of the green jersey with 141 points ahead of Greipel. Although in Paris, he failed to overtake Cavendish in the final dash, you would be so proud of him even coming in at number 2. Sagan may have Liquigas' support but what Cavendish got was way more substantial. If there were the exact support that Cavendish received from Team Sky for Sagan, he would have eaten Cavendish for dinner, no doubt. Then again, Liquigas has too, done alot for Sagan. That's another story for a better day...
The way he was sprinting up to the finishing line was just a sign of a super human. Still, Cavendish packed in a glorious win but what Peter Sagan did, was to get the world to sit up and anticipate what's up and coming. I'm now officially a fan of the cycling spectator spot.
When Tour de France started this year, I was glued to the gorgeous looking Mark Cavendish in his rainbow jersey that marks the world champion. With Team Sky all decked out in Kask helmets complete with team colours which I almost bought if not for the weight (My weird head shape meant only the Kask and OGK fits me), paired with the legendary Pinarello Dogma 2s and complete with the way the team rides almost like they're dancing in some arranged formation, I was a fan! At this point, I was quite comfortable with the impending fact that Team Sky is going to take home both the yellow and green jersey (I didn't even know what the yellow and green jersey meant before this!).
For one Slovak prodigy, Peter Sagan, this Tour de France is his debut. He couldn't have made his presence with more impact. At a mere 22 years of age, I think we're about to see the cycling scene change (not that I have seen much before). All I know is how cute and amazing Mark Cavendish is... That said, my focus was starting to slowly shift when Sagan won Stage 1 beating Fabian Cancellara, the yellow jersey favourite. The shift has also got to do with the fact that I'm a Cannondale rider (I can't afford a Pinarello!) and more importantly, Watziznehm has one of those SuperSix Evo frames that Team Liquigas is on.
I know this is rather anti-climax but here's how my frame looks like but I have the Ultegra groupset on with some swanky SLK cranks, which in pro terms, it's peanuts. But I love my bike and I call it, Sky Sully. The above mentioned Evo is called Bike Wazowski!
On with Peter Sagan...
With his hands on his hips, he took the green jersey and never once gave it up. He will slowly earn his new nickname, The Tourminator, in the coming days. According to other sources, Sagan was first tagged the Terminator from his mountain biking days because he was destroying wheels and tires! Anyway, his first win but I've yet to figure out what movie his winning move was after...
Video Link's Broken - Sourcing for better ones...
If the above win gave you an idea of how much power this looker has packed in him, check out his Stage 3 win a.k.a the Forrest Gump win. He's looking really cute. "Win, Peter, Win!" How amazing!
Video Link's Broken - Sourcing for better ones...
At Stage 6, it may seem like Andre Greipel was slowly eroding Sagan's glory but the Hulk is not about to let it go. With a fabulously powerful late dash, the green jersey was once again in the safe hands of Peter Sagan.
No video of the win but here's a summary...
Video Link's Broken - Sourcing for better ones...
Here's something I found on road.cc
Stage winner Peter Sagan, Liquigas-Cannondale
“I'm very happy when I can win a stage like today. Yesterday I was unlucky with the crash but also content that nothing was broken and that I didn't have any injuries. I don't want to be compared with other riders, I want to be Peter Sagan.
“I was near the front when the crash happened but the two riders who were ahead were pushed and this forced me to brake; behind me was Vincenzo Nibali who also had to brake and behind us was the crash. This is the race, this is the Tour de France and it's very nervous. The accident was on a downhill and we were going very fast and it's very dangerous.
“Another win and I called this one ‘The Hulk'. I want the green jersey and I think I can hold on to it all the way to Paris.
“This is already more than I ever expected. It's surprised me too. I wanted to do well but I need to say that this is only the start of the Tour de France and tomorrow is when the race really begins because it's the climbs and I think that after two weeks, by the start of the third week, it's going to be really hard.
“I think I did well today because the other sprinters are a little tired and maybe that's the key to this win.”
Well, the above marks the 3 wins he totalled within 2012's Tour de France but the glory didn't stop there. He's now better known as the youngest winner of the green jersey with 141 points ahead of Greipel. Although in Paris, he failed to overtake Cavendish in the final dash, you would be so proud of him even coming in at number 2. Sagan may have Liquigas' support but what Cavendish got was way more substantial. If there were the exact support that Cavendish received from Team Sky for Sagan, he would have eaten Cavendish for dinner, no doubt. Then again, Liquigas has too, done alot for Sagan. That's another story for a better day...
The way he was sprinting up to the finishing line was just a sign of a super human. Still, Cavendish packed in a glorious win but what Peter Sagan did, was to get the world to sit up and anticipate what's up and coming. I'm now officially a fan of the cycling spectator spot.
Thursday, July 05, 2012
Double Boiled Chicken & Abalone Soup
Soups have always been a form of comfort food to the Chinese person in me despite my love for steaks and potatoes. Much credit must be given to my Mom who is a typical Cantonese Mom who loves her double boiled soups. Even then, I have never double boiled soups in my life... Ever. All I did was to throw an array of ingredients into one big pot and boil them down until I have extracted the essence of the ingredients. Double boiling can be a little tricky for a newbie like me. Here's a new recipe I have planned to embark on. The aim is to replicate that savoury clear chicken and abalone soup I had at Capella over a wedding banquet. This soup was first designed to be a base soup for many different confinement soups. So for new mothers, you might find this uncomplicated soup great for consumption as you won't be worried about the elements of Chinese herbs that you're unsure of.
The Double Boiling
There are several variations to this. My Mom used to have this white ceramic jar with some blue fishes painted on it. You should be able to get such wares from a Chinatown near you. You place this jar loaded with all your ingredients and top the jar up with water or stock. Place this jar in a pot of water with a stand to hold your jar. This is similar to "steaming" your soup. In fact, some traditional restaurants use their commercial steamer to boil these soups in individual ceramic jars. I found some jars made for double boiling that are quite new age (still very traditional looking), yet slightly fancy. See picture on the right. (Note: I found this picture on the internet so it belongs to someone else) I'm quite determined to find a similar device.
Otherwise, you can invest in a double boiler (Planning to do that when my house is ready to move in). There is such a thing! I took this picture from Hospitality Products and I suppose you can also order it directly from them. They are an Australian wholesale company so they do not provide worldwide delivery. If you happen to be living Down Under, there's where you can go to for all your culinary wares. Some departmental stores carry them too. I understand WMF has this in their ranges too but the capacity is a tad small.
Ingredients:
1 fresh whole chicken (skin removed)
1-2 fresh/dried large abalone (If you're using smaller abalones, gauge the quantity depending on its size)
5-6 dried scallops (Yew Chyu) - The most amazing ingredient of all and I add it in all my soup recipes
5-6 dried mushrooms
4 pieces of spare ribs
1 handful of wolfberries (Only to be added towards the end. Throw in towards the last 15 mins of boiling)
3 sticks of Huai Shan "淮山" (Dried Chinese Yam)
This soup will require a good 4-5 hours of boiling so get yourself a good book. Prior to the double boiling, I will pre-boil the meats in a separate put to remove as much scum as possible, making it easier to reach the consommé state that I would like to achieve. You will also need to soak the abalone (if it's dried), dried scallops, dried mushrooms and wolf berries prior to adding them to the ceramic jar.
My Mom loves to check on the soup and the water level often so that she can remove the scum that floats to the top but I will refrain from doing that as it greatly affects the temperature of the soup. Avoid seasoning the soup until the very end, just before serving.
So bring the water to boil on high then turn the heat down and let it steam. The end result - You should get this wonderful clear soup that's absolutely comforting.
Some of you might think that the abalone, now tender and pretty much tasteless will go to waste. Here's a way to whip up another great dish. Using some ginger and spring onion, fry it until it's at the legendary "golden brown" state, remove the ginger and spring from the oil. Add some stock, oyster sauce, a dash of dark soya sauce and some rock sugar. Add in the abalone and cook for about 45 minutes until the sauce is reduced.
The Double Boiling
Otherwise, you can invest in a double boiler (Planning to do that when my house is ready to move in). There is such a thing! I took this picture from Hospitality Products and I suppose you can also order it directly from them. They are an Australian wholesale company so they do not provide worldwide delivery. If you happen to be living Down Under, there's where you can go to for all your culinary wares. Some departmental stores carry them too. I understand WMF has this in their ranges too but the capacity is a tad small.
Ingredients:
1 fresh whole chicken (skin removed)
1-2 fresh/dried large abalone (If you're using smaller abalones, gauge the quantity depending on its size)
5-6 dried scallops (Yew Chyu) - The most amazing ingredient of all and I add it in all my soup recipes
5-6 dried mushrooms
4 pieces of spare ribs
1 handful of wolfberries (Only to be added towards the end. Throw in towards the last 15 mins of boiling)
3 sticks of Huai Shan "淮山" (Dried Chinese Yam)
This soup will require a good 4-5 hours of boiling so get yourself a good book. Prior to the double boiling, I will pre-boil the meats in a separate put to remove as much scum as possible, making it easier to reach the consommé state that I would like to achieve. You will also need to soak the abalone (if it's dried), dried scallops, dried mushrooms and wolf berries prior to adding them to the ceramic jar.
My Mom loves to check on the soup and the water level often so that she can remove the scum that floats to the top but I will refrain from doing that as it greatly affects the temperature of the soup. Avoid seasoning the soup until the very end, just before serving.
So bring the water to boil on high then turn the heat down and let it steam. The end result - You should get this wonderful clear soup that's absolutely comforting.
Some of you might think that the abalone, now tender and pretty much tasteless will go to waste. Here's a way to whip up another great dish. Using some ginger and spring onion, fry it until it's at the legendary "golden brown" state, remove the ginger and spring from the oil. Add some stock, oyster sauce, a dash of dark soya sauce and some rock sugar. Add in the abalone and cook for about 45 minutes until the sauce is reduced.
Friday, June 22, 2012
50 Shades Too Much
For the first time in my life, I finished a set of trilogy in 1 week, twice! It has become an addiction and I know I need to start distracting myself with other books. The second and third book is still on its way and I'm already done with them, not just once. My mind is always revolving around Christian Grey and wondering if such a person exist. Then again, I doubt I can deal with such a person in real life as I continue to live in my fantasy with weird affection for a fictional personality. It's about time I get started on some normal trash. As for now, I find myself yearning to drive the white R8.
Have you read it?
Have you read it?
Thursday, June 14, 2012
50 Shades of Rainbow
The first time Watziznehm spent 6 entire weeks in Dubai, it was novel and very quickly, I was planning a visit to this amazing city within the emirate. It was one of the best weeks I've spent away from home, second to my time in New York. Time became a decadance which I could afford and space was the feast my eye desperately longed for. As with every other holiday, it was way too short. It was so only because I had to return due to work commitments. The weather has since heated up and Dubai is right smack in their infamous summer. Of course, I have seen what I wanted to and there was no compelling reason for me to visit yet again.
This time around, it's been 4 solid weeks. My weekends were filled with sleepless nights of excessive mahjong and the seductive company of books. People around me have concluded that I'm addicted to the world of mummy-porn, 50 Shades of Grey... Yet with all the hype, my dinners were mostly spent alone (with my book of course and occasionally, there's the iPad). I never liked dinner alone because it reminds me painfully that I'm too far away from a warm hug and a comforting kiss on my forehead. I came to realise that it is with someone you love, your enjoyment for simple things is life is taken to a different height and easily multiplied. While I'm thinking that I will never land myself with a man like Christian Grey, I'm actually basking in excessive contentment. I have a good man who tolerates all my nonsense. Besides, I'm no Ana Steele.
Back to reality, I know in a a world where I take too much, things may crumble. I find myself being compensated with an abundance of patience and a generous portion of love. Life may not bring me to continents that I long to visit but it has already brought me to the land where life is.
I may grumble that my weekends of mahjong and my secret dates with some fictional character is coming to an end but I know reality isn't that harsh to jump back to. All I greedily need now is that stretch of the already lavish patience coupled with love and whose arms I will readily throw myself right into.
My lesson now is to come to realisation that my life is made of 50 shades of rainbow happiness.
This time around, it's been 4 solid weeks. My weekends were filled with sleepless nights of excessive mahjong and the seductive company of books. People around me have concluded that I'm addicted to the world of mummy-porn, 50 Shades of Grey... Yet with all the hype, my dinners were mostly spent alone (with my book of course and occasionally, there's the iPad). I never liked dinner alone because it reminds me painfully that I'm too far away from a warm hug and a comforting kiss on my forehead. I came to realise that it is with someone you love, your enjoyment for simple things is life is taken to a different height and easily multiplied. While I'm thinking that I will never land myself with a man like Christian Grey, I'm actually basking in excessive contentment. I have a good man who tolerates all my nonsense. Besides, I'm no Ana Steele.
Back to reality, I know in a a world where I take too much, things may crumble. I find myself being compensated with an abundance of patience and a generous portion of love. Life may not bring me to continents that I long to visit but it has already brought me to the land where life is.
I may grumble that my weekends of mahjong and my secret dates with some fictional character is coming to an end but I know reality isn't that harsh to jump back to. All I greedily need now is that stretch of the already lavish patience coupled with love and whose arms I will readily throw myself right into.
My lesson now is to come to realisation that my life is made of 50 shades of rainbow happiness.
Monday, June 11, 2012
Review: 50 Shades of Grey
In the past few weeks, I've been occupied with many good reads. Mainly, I embarked on the latest Sophie Kinsella's I've Got Your Number and I fell deeply in love with Sam Roxton. A charming and powerful man melted me beyond recognition but somehow, it didn't bring me to write a post-mortem analysis on it unlike my weird affection for Christian Grey.
This is the first book that got me bothered to find out what PNR actually means: ParaNormal Romance.
50 Shades of Grey...
Before I flipped open the first page, I was insistent that I was going to hate it because the storyline dealt with BDSM. But once I started, it was juggling the weekend full of activities and finding small pockets of time for the book and the result, sleepless Saturday night and finally, I'm done with the book. Now that I'm finished with the book, I can't wait for 50 Shades of Darker to arrive. But the disappointment when I went on BookDepository and all I saw was "Processing". Painful wait means I kept going back to reread the book because I was missing Christian Grey and I cannot deal with not-so-happy endings.
I must say the book could be better written. I hated over usage of some words and phrases and I don't see why Anastasia must have an issue with eating. Eat! And nothing much in the book said much about her intelligence except for her GPA score. I began to wonder who is the one with the problem, Grey or Steele?
Now, here's a wealthy, charming, good-looking, gentlemanly, caring, sensitive, understanding man. What not to love about him? But there's are 50 shades of the unknown behind this man and I can't tell you more because of the NDA. You will need to read this book and once you pop, you can't stop. It answers most girls' question that no man is perfect and there's always something about him that makes you wonder and frustrates you even further. But it's the very fact that this is one man who loves so much, so deep that he's willing to change despite him being the Bill Gates and Steve Jobs combined with the face of Leonardo DiCaprio or Brad Pitt. Learn: compromise! He's 50 shades of awesomeness after we can find a way to eject the 50 shades of fucked up inside him. The flow of the book is smooth and the unexpected reaction of Anastasia moved things along pretty interestingly.
I would read this book again, not wanting to miss out any details. If you have an open mind about PNR or BDSM, here's an interesting MUST-read.
PS. When I was reading this book, during the times when I couldn't read, I was listening to this and my eyes welled. It's so apt.
And the best person who has my vote to play Christian Grey in the movie as got to be... Non other than... Matt Bomer! Check out this picture, he's just sizzling HOT! That's how I pictured MY Christian Grey!
I want him! Well, but he's gay! Bugger! SLURP!
To the haters out there, stop being such a prude. It's got sub standard English... Yes. It's not proper... Yes. It's trashy... Yes. Good trash. It's not real... Yes. It's a book dammit!
I'm so in love with Christian Grey, I kept going back to re-read the book. I'm hopeless...
This is the first book that got me bothered to find out what PNR actually means: ParaNormal Romance.
50 Shades of Grey...
Before I flipped open the first page, I was insistent that I was going to hate it because the storyline dealt with BDSM. But once I started, it was juggling the weekend full of activities and finding small pockets of time for the book and the result, sleepless Saturday night and finally, I'm done with the book. Now that I'm finished with the book, I can't wait for 50 Shades of Darker to arrive. But the disappointment when I went on BookDepository and all I saw was "Processing". Painful wait means I kept going back to reread the book because I was missing Christian Grey and I cannot deal with not-so-happy endings.
I must say the book could be better written. I hated over usage of some words and phrases and I don't see why Anastasia must have an issue with eating. Eat! And nothing much in the book said much about her intelligence except for her GPA score. I began to wonder who is the one with the problem, Grey or Steele?
Now, here's a wealthy, charming, good-looking, gentlemanly, caring, sensitive, understanding man. What not to love about him? But there's are 50 shades of the unknown behind this man and I can't tell you more because of the NDA. You will need to read this book and once you pop, you can't stop. It answers most girls' question that no man is perfect and there's always something about him that makes you wonder and frustrates you even further. But it's the very fact that this is one man who loves so much, so deep that he's willing to change despite him being the Bill Gates and Steve Jobs combined with the face of Leonardo DiCaprio or Brad Pitt. Learn: compromise! He's 50 shades of awesomeness after we can find a way to eject the 50 shades of fucked up inside him. The flow of the book is smooth and the unexpected reaction of Anastasia moved things along pretty interestingly.
I would read this book again, not wanting to miss out any details. If you have an open mind about PNR or BDSM, here's an interesting MUST-read.
PS. When I was reading this book, during the times when I couldn't read, I was listening to this and my eyes welled. It's so apt.
And the best person who has my vote to play Christian Grey in the movie as got to be... Non other than... Matt Bomer! Check out this picture, he's just sizzling HOT! That's how I pictured MY Christian Grey!
I want him! Well, but he's gay! Bugger! SLURP!
To the haters out there, stop being such a prude. It's got sub standard English... Yes. It's not proper... Yes. It's trashy... Yes. Good trash. It's not real... Yes. It's a book dammit!
I'm so in love with Christian Grey, I kept going back to re-read the book. I'm hopeless...
Wednesday, May 09, 2012
Beautiful People
The most beautiful people we have known are those who have known defeat, known suffering, known struggle, known loss, and have found their way out of the depths. These persons have an appreciation, a sensitivity, and an understanding of life that fills them with compassion, gentleness, and a deep loving concern. Beautiful people do not just happen.
Wednesday, April 25, 2012
Fragility of Life
I know God is taking you sooner because he wants to bring the best to him sooner.
You have reminded me that life is just too fragile and the difference between life and death is a mere split second. The lesson that your departure has reminded us is to keep my dear ones even dearer and to give more than I would ever do. The number of friends who are spilling their condolences, being there at the wake is a clear testimony of how great you were as a friend and mentor. Your smile was contagious and I hate myself for missing you during the ride last week.
I know, my friend, that you're in His good hands.
Wednesday, March 21, 2012
Camera Gibberish
Gone are the 50mm f1.8 and the kit 18-200mm. All in an attempt to fund the new lens. Of course, the stronger brother 50mm f1.4 is still being loved and used but in addition, I have introduced this to the whole set up...
Ladies & Gentleman...
The Canon 17-55mm f2.8, one of the best lens you can have for the Canon crop cameras.
Picture taken from Camera Labs
I brought it to the deserts of Dubai and now I can hear some puny bits of sand when I turn the lens but it's in perfect working condition. I'm sending it for overhaul and it'll be good as new. I'm glad I brought this lens along because with the range, it was enough. The pictures were as sharp as the stability of my hands. Colours turned out beautiful sans the cloudy sky fogged up by sand and dust. When I have the time, I will put up some of the pictures I took. Meanwhile, if you're ever considering the lens, don't hesitate. Unless, of course, if you're moving onto FF in the near future.
As for the recently added, 580EXII, it will take me a long while to master. Any expert strobist can share their experiences?
Ladies & Gentleman...
The Canon 17-55mm f2.8, one of the best lens you can have for the Canon crop cameras.
Picture taken from Camera Labs
I brought it to the deserts of Dubai and now I can hear some puny bits of sand when I turn the lens but it's in perfect working condition. I'm sending it for overhaul and it'll be good as new. I'm glad I brought this lens along because with the range, it was enough. The pictures were as sharp as the stability of my hands. Colours turned out beautiful sans the cloudy sky fogged up by sand and dust. When I have the time, I will put up some of the pictures I took. Meanwhile, if you're ever considering the lens, don't hesitate. Unless, of course, if you're moving onto FF in the near future.
As for the recently added, 580EXII, it will take me a long while to master. Any expert strobist can share their experiences?
To Do. To Buy. Dubai.
Dubai, also known as City of Gold, is indeed a land of endless "gold" blown all over Dubai. If there's a breeze across Dubai, it's a sandstorm and they are incredibly common. Weather was perfect in the past week apart from the sand that exfoliated my face as I went on my tour on the Big Bus Tour.
Dubai is an incredibly expensive place for shopping although it is tax free. However, they have all the shops imagine-able congregated there from all over the world. Just to name a few, Dubai Mall alone has Dean & Deluca, Victoria's Secret, Tory Burch, Bloomingdales, Pottery Barn, Alexander McQueen, Reiss and even Oscar De La Renta! The mall itself also boasts a giant aquarium. Other brands like Repetto and LK Bennett are also setting up shop there. I was hoping for LK Bennett to reach our shores! It is not entirely fair for me to comment on the prices since I didn't buy much. I managed to keep myself away from Chanel, Prada and Bottega, which to me, is quite an achievement.
Taxis are easily accessible and cost relatively little to get from point A to point B within Dubai itself. Distance on the map may be deceiving as the roads are quite interestingly and intricately weaved. If you're going to somewhere perhaps less than 2-3km away, please be warned the minimum cab fare if AED 10 even if your fare only comes up to AED 6-7. Don't be like me - A fool sitting in a cab waiting for change...
Cab rides will be an adventure on its own. Knowledge of road names are redundant. So are any maps that you may have on hand. If you have a famous landmark, things will be waaaay easier.
Dubai being a religious Muslim city also translate into its low crime rates. I felt very safe in Dubai which is in stark contrast to my impression of Dubai before my trip. As long as you arm yourself with enough common sense and not dress too lightly (i.e. keep your knees and shoulders covered), a single female traveller will face little to no danger in Dubai.
Dubai is all about shopping, given the fact that it is an incredibly new city built right smack in the desert. Honestly, it has little to offer in terms of history but if you look at the beautiful architecture of this city, they have their very own story to tell.
A must do in Dubai is to go on to the Desert Safari. I went for the Sundowner by Arabian Adventures. The 4x4 will begin your adventure via a roller coaster ride except, it's without the rails. You can to feel the fine sand under your feet, in your nose and ears, between strands of hair and watch the beautiful sunset. You will also get to ride the camel, have a feel of smoking the shisha and enjoy a delectable Arabian meal. Belly dancing kept us entertained during dinner and star gazing in pitch dark desert became the highlight at the end of the tour.
European style afternoon tea became a staple rest break. I picked Paul for a few days running. We may have this back home but to be able to sit by the beautiful fountain overlooking the Burj Khalifa in the cool Dubai breeze, this was something I couldn't replicate here.
The luxury of space is felt in most places and it is what I feel that is lacking in our daily lives. My opinion for Dubai has drastically changed and I do think it is a highly liveable city. The rulers of Dubai must be doing an excellent job because we all forget, this was just a desert not that long ago.
Dubai is an incredibly expensive place for shopping although it is tax free. However, they have all the shops imagine-able congregated there from all over the world. Just to name a few, Dubai Mall alone has Dean & Deluca, Victoria's Secret, Tory Burch, Bloomingdales, Pottery Barn, Alexander McQueen, Reiss and even Oscar De La Renta! The mall itself also boasts a giant aquarium. Other brands like Repetto and LK Bennett are also setting up shop there. I was hoping for LK Bennett to reach our shores! It is not entirely fair for me to comment on the prices since I didn't buy much. I managed to keep myself away from Chanel, Prada and Bottega, which to me, is quite an achievement.
Taxis are easily accessible and cost relatively little to get from point A to point B within Dubai itself. Distance on the map may be deceiving as the roads are quite interestingly and intricately weaved. If you're going to somewhere perhaps less than 2-3km away, please be warned the minimum cab fare if AED 10 even if your fare only comes up to AED 6-7. Don't be like me - A fool sitting in a cab waiting for change...
Cab rides will be an adventure on its own. Knowledge of road names are redundant. So are any maps that you may have on hand. If you have a famous landmark, things will be waaaay easier.
Dubai being a religious Muslim city also translate into its low crime rates. I felt very safe in Dubai which is in stark contrast to my impression of Dubai before my trip. As long as you arm yourself with enough common sense and not dress too lightly (i.e. keep your knees and shoulders covered), a single female traveller will face little to no danger in Dubai.
Dubai is all about shopping, given the fact that it is an incredibly new city built right smack in the desert. Honestly, it has little to offer in terms of history but if you look at the beautiful architecture of this city, they have their very own story to tell.
A must do in Dubai is to go on to the Desert Safari. I went for the Sundowner by Arabian Adventures. The 4x4 will begin your adventure via a roller coaster ride except, it's without the rails. You can to feel the fine sand under your feet, in your nose and ears, between strands of hair and watch the beautiful sunset. You will also get to ride the camel, have a feel of smoking the shisha and enjoy a delectable Arabian meal. Belly dancing kept us entertained during dinner and star gazing in pitch dark desert became the highlight at the end of the tour.
European style afternoon tea became a staple rest break. I picked Paul for a few days running. We may have this back home but to be able to sit by the beautiful fountain overlooking the Burj Khalifa in the cool Dubai breeze, this was something I couldn't replicate here.
The luxury of space is felt in most places and it is what I feel that is lacking in our daily lives. My opinion for Dubai has drastically changed and I do think it is a highly liveable city. The rulers of Dubai must be doing an excellent job because we all forget, this was just a desert not that long ago.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)