ingenue

IRREVERSIBLE

2010-12-09T22:13:00.004+08:00

Instead of filling the pages of this blog with emo entries, I thought it would be best to just stop writing altogether. What do people always say - hiatus.

In other words, the Wiley stint was remarkably enjoyable and fun while it lasted.

As I reminisce one day in the distant future I know I could look back at this and not feel too bothered. Not a futile attempt I hope.

On the plus side I get to keep "voyeurs" at bay and share details only with people who truly care.

THAT LOVE AFFAIR

2010-07-30T00:01:00.004+08:00

***

Very outdated post

***

Smitten fangirl trying to bribe with... ice-cream of all things!

PROGRESS REPORT 2

2010-05-23T10:35:00.003+08:00

Thanks to my leeching ways I managed to steal some pics from a forum.

As of yesterday, the balcony railings have been installed all the way up to our unit!

*big smile*

A RELIGIOUS HISTORY JOURNAL

2010-04-29T20:09:00.002+08:00

Fear not who kicks you in the pants,
For you trod squarely on his toes,
His purpose is to hit you back,
Because his greed you have exposed.

If you were dumb he would not care,
Injustice has remained so long
That vested interest is a right,
And it resents being called a wrong.

Unharmed, you can afford to laugh,
The hurt you felt is wholly gone,
Because you faced just straight ahead,
That kick has only sent you on.

-Oswald Garnett

WHY YOU SHOULD LOOK OLDER & TALLER

2010-04-27T21:34:00.003+08:00

Kym [11:22 AM]:
'cause today...lol

i was on the train today and this 7-8 y.o. kid from the overseas family school got aboard

because the train was packed, everyone was squashed but this office guy next to me actually rested his arm on the boy's head)(not accidentally touched the boy's head) while he happily bitched about the morning to his friend

so i told him off, but because he was older and taller, he literally looked down and give me the 'dao' face

Reese [11:37 AM]:
what a jerk. and then? he continued to rest his oh-so-heavy arm on the boy’s head???

Kym [11:38 AM]:
yeah, so in the end i pushed his arm off and dragged the boy in front of me

...unfortunately i'm not that tall, so the kid came up to my chest

most embarassing situation for the both of us
and the red face did not help to convince the bastard of the office boy

hence, the need to look older and taller

Reese [11:38 AM]:
woah what a way to start the morning

you should have given him your trademark glare or smth
size doesn't always count.. but looking older prolly helps

Kym [11:40 AM]:
oh, i purposely stepped on his foot when i got off at city hall

Reese [11:40 AM]:
LOL!! i hope you're wearing heels today!
eh you don't right...

Reese [11:40 AM]:
get a pair of killer heels ready in case you bump into him again
or poke your big bag into his space
then he'd knows how it feels

Kym [11:41 AM]:
nope, but good enough a stomp to get a grunt of pain from him
we always need a spot of violence

Reese [11:43 AM]:
chilli padi indeed....
*nods head in approval*

Kym [11:45 AM]:
thank you
still it helps if i looked older and taller

RANDOM SONG OF THE DAY

2010-03-03T22:56:00.005+08:00

Reese‎‎ [3:26 PM]:
swear to god, this author was sent from hell

‎‎Coll‎‎ [3:26 PM]:
AHAHAHAHA

‎‎Reese [3:26 PM]:
i'm still in disbelief

‎‎Coll [3:26 PM]:
go work your charm!
Over what?

‎‎Reese [3:26 PM]:
see i was listening to gaga's speechless, right‎
and i was thinking.... how apt!!!
sigh...

Reese [3:27 PM]:
oh boy you've left me speechless...

‎‎Coll [3:27 PM]:
but you weren't alone with the author last night
and i'm sure he doesn't have james dean glossy eyes
heheheh

‎‎Reese [3:28 PM]:
LOL!! or johnny walker's

Coll [3:29 PM]:
HAHAHAHA spot on

HUNKFEST ALERT

2010-02-01T22:05:00.006+08:00

Electrifying.. Spellbinding.. Breathtaking..

True all that!

Personally I love the display of colours (so psychedelic!), wild imagination, the theme of choices and consequences, and some other esoteric values.

And then there's the kickass combination of Heath Ledger, Johnny Depp and Jude Law. Love em all!

These people are so talented it's amazing.

P/S: Puzzled that this is being aired in 2 cinemas only. And apparently the 'top pick of the week' was Universal Soldier, the movie that went straight to DVD in the states. What on earth!?

HOLE IN MY SIDEWALK

2010-01-26T22:10:00.002+08:00

Autobiography in Five Short Chapters

Chapter 1
I walk down the street.
There is a deep hole in the sidewalk.
I fall in.
I am lost… I am helpless.
It isn’t my fault.
It takes forever to find a way out.

Chapter 2
I walk down the street.
There is a deep hole in the sidewalk.
I pretend that I don’t see it.
I fall in again.
I can’t believe I am in this same place.
But, it isn’t my fault.
It still takes a long time to get out.

Chapter 3
I walk down the same street.
There is a deep hole in the sidewalk.
I see it is there.
I still fall in … it’s a habit … but, my eyes are open.
I know where I am.
It is my fault.
I get out immediately.

Chapter 4
I walk down the same street.
There is a deep hole in the sidewalk.
I walk around it.

Chapter 5
I walk down another street.

Portia Nelson’s “There’s A Hole In My Sidewalk“

A DREAMY AFFAIR

2010-01-24T11:38:00.015+08:00

Cue that Dream, dream, dream song by the Everly Brothers...

Uhh, secular songs most likely not allowed

For the longest time, I have been drawing these sketches in my head, of how the wedding would look like, and if it had a theme, what would it be, and where.

Nothing concrete, nothing realistic. Just dreams =)

On this fateful weekend we decided to pop by St. George's Church, just to check out whether it was possible to hold our wedding there.

One look on the inside and we were sold.

Unfortunately, just like St. Andrew's Cathedral, this is an Anglican church.

And they are sticky about such things.

So off we went to scout for other promising locations. Still, this church holds the reign as the most dreamy location.

Meanwhile, the search for an ideal wedding reception venue ends almost as soon as we left the church.

Along the same road sits a refurbished chapel, now renowned for its lifestyle dining concept. Its location and interior practically begs for cosy wedding receptions to be held there.

But with a bold price tag to match its concept, this becomes an unnecessary indulgence. So again, this was immediately archived in the library of dreams.

Truth is, dreamy or not, indulging in anything except the love nest or honeymoon doesn't make much sense. Of course, this only applies to us cash-strapped folks. Damn you HDB!

Anyway anyway, the house drama is over and it's sort of taking care of itself for now, which means we can devote our attention to the search for that perfect vacation spot.

Combine our love for road trips, rolling greeneries, thrills, and we pretty much end up with the adventure capital of the world.

Dreamy! (without the hefty price tag)

CHEERS!

2009-12-30T23:04:00.011+08:00

Millions of people.

Everyone out for themselves.

Can this really be the only way?

No.

Here's to honor, and to gallantry, long may it live.

Here's to doing the right thing. To giving a damn.

Here's to the straight-talkers, who give their word, and keep it.

Here's to freedom, wherever you find it,
and to knowing the true meaning of wealth.

Here's to the brave among us.

Here's to a code of behavior that sets certain men apart from all others.

Here's to us.

Elephant in the room

2009-11-07T15:51:00.001+08:00

Such a beautiful song!

Tweets aren't spoiling me, music is!!
Blogging has almost been entirely ousted.
Online reading replaced by my favourite paperbacks.
I read way too much from the screen at work =D

PROGRESS REPORT

2009-11-01T10:32:00.005+08:00

Reese: So did those filthy bloodsuckers refund the 5% cash deposit?

Altar Boy: Not after some table banging, fist fighting, appraisal of the nether regions, and finally some plain bawling and incessant pleading, they finally mailed me a cheque :)

Reese: They gave you FULL refund???

Altar Boy: Of course. You didn't get that?

Reese: Idiots refunded a miserly 2k! No amount of bawling and pleading worked in my case apparently.

Altar Boy: You didn't wear your cleavage maximizer and ultra minis that day?

Reese: Ahahahaha. Naw. The S&P woman didn't look an inch like a lesbo to me.

Altar Boy: Lucky I wore my armpit airing singlet and hot pants. Nailed that fatso gayboy.

Reese: -_-"

BLESS YOU JETSTAR

2009-08-16T21:35:00.003+08:00

For ending six god-forsaken years of shuttling from one little island to another.

I am thoroughly and pleasantly surprised with Jetstar's all-inclusive, return air tickets to Penang for only $50. Nett.

That's half the price of a 10-hour-journey coach ticket!! Shame on you Grassland, Konsortium, Gunung Raya and whatever shitty, freezing cold and roach-infested coaches!

COMPLAINT LETTER

2009-07-12T23:32:00.000+08:00

HAHAHAHA. This is hilarious.

And you think S'poreans are a bunch of complaint kings and queens. Over in the UK they have a freaking competition for the best complaint letter ok!

Below is a copy of the letter that won a competition in UK as complaint letter of the year.

Dear Cretins,

I have been an NTL customer since 9th July 2001, when I signed up for your 3-in-one deal for cable TV, cable modem, and telephone. During this three-month period I have encountered inadequacy of service which I had not previously considered possible, as well as ignorance and stupidity of monolithic proportions. Please allow me to provide specific details, so that you can either pursue your professional perogative, and seek to rectify these difficulties - or more likely (I suspect) so that you can have some entertaining reading material as you while away the working day smoking B&H and drinking vendor-coffee on the bog in your office:

My initial installation was cancelled without warning, resulting in my spending an entire Saturday sitting on my fat arse waiting for your technician to arrive. When he did not arrive, I spent a further 57 minutes listening to your infuriating hold music, and the even more annoying Scottish robot woman telling me to look at your helpful website....HOW?

I alleviated the boredom by playing with my t..ticles for a few minutes - an activity at which you are no-doubt both familiar and highly adept. The rescheduled installation then took place some two weeks later, although the technician did forget to bring a number of vital tools - such as a drill-bit, and his cerebrum. Two weeks later, my cable modem had still not arrived. After 15 telephone calls over 4 weeks my modem arrived... six weeks after I had requested it, and begun to pay for it. I estimate your internet server's downtime is roughly 35%... hours between about 6pm -midnight, Mon-Fri, and most of the weekend. I am still waiting for my telephone connection. I have made 9 calls on my mobile to your no-help line, and have been unhelpfully transferred to a variety of disinterested individuals, who are it seems also highly skilled bollock jugglers.

I have been informed that a telephone line is available (and someone will call me back); that no telephone line is available (and someone will call me back); that I will be transferred to someone who knows whether or not a telephone line is available (and then been cut off); that I will be transferred to someone (and then been redirected to an answer machine informing me that your office is closed); that I will be transferred to someone and then been redirected to the irritating Scottish robot woman...and several other variations on this theme. Doubtless you are no longer reading this letter, as you have at least a thousand other dissatisfied customers to ignore, and also another one of those crucially important t..ticle-moments to attend to.

Frankly I don't care, it's far more satisfying as a customer to voice my frustration's in print than to shout them at your unending hold music. Forgive me, therefore, if I continue.

I thought BT were s.it, that they had attained the holy piss-pot of godawful customer relations, that no-one, anywhere, ever, could be more disinterested, less helpful or more obstructive to delivering service to their customers. That's why I chose NTL, and because, well, there isn't anyone else is there? How surprised I therefore was, when I discovered to my considerable dissatisfaction and disappointment what a useless shower of bastards you truly are. You are sputum-filled pieces of distended rectum incompetents of the highest order. British Telecom - w..nkers though they are - shine like brilliant beacons of success, in the filthy puss-filled mire of your seemingly limitless inadequacy. Suffice to say that I have now given up on my futile and foolhardy quest to receive any kind of service from you. I suggest that you cease any potential future attempts to extort payment from me for the services which you have so pointedly and catastrophically failed to deliver - any such activity will be greeted initially with hilarity and disbelief quickly be replaced by derision, and even perhaps bemused rage. I enclose two small deposits, selected with great care from my cats litter tray, as an expression of my utter and complete contempt for both you and your pointless company.

I sincerely hope that they have not become desiccated during transit - they were satisfyingly moist at the time of posting, and I would feel considerable disappointment if you did not experience both their rich aroma and delicate texture. Consider them the very embodiment of my feelings towards NTL, and its worthless employees.

Have a nice day - may it be the last in you miserable short life, you irritatingly incompetent and infuriatingly unhelpful bunch of *****.

John

OF CHRISTIANITY AND TOLERANCE

2009-06-24T23:49:00.008+08:00

I have never been "closed" to monotheistic religions and ideas. Not subscribing to the faith, belief, and values that a religion offer does not have to mean condemnation. Because tolerance is the key here - something we should always try to hold on to.

For the record,

1) My parents put me in Baptist Kindergarten when I was 5. Then it was Convent all the way until I completed secondary school. 12 glorious years.

2) I used to attend church at regular intervals. I tried reaching out and kept my heart open.

3) For the past 2 years or so I have been staying with 2 staunch Christians. A pastor and the supremely kind-hearted landlady.

4) And I intend to spend the rest of my life with a devout Christian. Hugs.

Yet things have turned out to be SO different for me. It is not Christianity that has touched or spoken to me. (I can imagine guerrilla Christians out there shaking their heads in disapproval already)

Point is, if an honest and true conversion is in any way possible, merely going to any church and listening to sermons is not the answer. If only things were as simple as that! When you talk about a spiritual connection, it is something very personal. So there isn’t a tried-and-tested formula that you could prescribe to a "non-believer" in order to coerce him/her.

Picked up some quotes from the web - about the generally intolerant stance that monotheistic religions hold towards others, and why it is not exactly the best thing.

“ Polytheism, paganism, pluralism, new age spiritualism and secular governance have all stood for religious freedom and equality, whilst the horrific spectre of oppression and violent coercion have resulted mostly from Abrahamic monotheistic religions such as Judaism, Christianity and Islam. ”

Religion in the Modern World: From Cathedrals to Cults by Steve Bruce(1996)

“ Christianity started out tolerant and peaceful: the first Christians, the gnostics and ebionites, accepted respectively that their religion was one interpretation of the truth amongst many, or that it was a personal path and not something that could be enforced on to others. Centuries later, though, the Nicene Christians arose and murdered their more peaceful predecessors, preparing Christianity to embrace the Dark Ages like no other religion could, or would, have. ”

The European Union: Democratic Values, The Euro, Crises and Migration by Vexen Crabtree (2007)

“ In some ways, this matter of being "right" and spreading the “right”was a concern unique to Christianity. The Roman Empire was populated with religions of all kinds: family religions, local religions, city religions, state religions. Virtually everyone in this mind-boggling complexity, except the Jews, worshipped numerous gods in numerous ways. So far as we can tell, this was almost never recognized as a problem. No one, that is, thought it was contradictory, or even problematic, to worship Jupiter and Venus and Mars and others of the "great" gods, along with local gods of your city and the lesser divine beings who looked over your crops, your daily affairs, your wife in childbirth, your daughter in sickness, and your son in his love life. Multiplicity bred respect and, for the most part, plurality bred tolerance. No one had the sense that if they were right to worship their gods by the means appropriate to them, you were therefore wrong to worship your gods. [...] But then came Christianity. ”

Lost Christianities by Bart Ehrman (2003)

CHAINS

2009-06-18T22:18:00.001+08:00

Man is born free, but everywhere he is in chains.
Jean Jacques Rousseau, The Social Contract
French political philosopher (1712 - 1778)

The chains are there for good reasons.

Apart from the obvious maintenance of social order, it helps keep reality close to hearts and minds, especially when overly imaginative thoughts threaten to lull you into illusionary lands where one seems to be completely free.

THE PEAK

2009-06-11T20:27:00.004+08:00

Ballot number of 1686 out of the 1203 units available.

What are the odds right?

BUT.

We got it! We got it!!

The infamous altar boy is going to be a same-block-neighbour. Roachie's best buddy stays at tpy and his flat is like a freaking stone throw away. Plus Jeff and Amanda at Balestier, which is insanely nearby too. Best =)

A NOTE

2009-06-04T00:42:00.002+08:00

I need my RC fix!!

Trading ingredients and getting the satisfaction with each level upped. And seeing your restaurant flourish under great business acumen and discerning eye for decor. Coughs.

The Kevin in my resto looks like he has almost curly hair. Almost.

The hired slaves..awwww

APPLE INVASION

2009-05-29T19:39:00.001+08:00

The keyboard of my trusty old iBook G4 is wet and dripping with saliva.

The 11th floor of the national library has been invaded with Mac evangelists and Apple advocates.

A guy sitting a few chairs away from me is charging his Ipod Touch on a Macbook Pro. Directly in front of me, another Macbook Pro user who just whipped out his Iphone and stepped away to take a call. Another lady diagonally opposite working away happily on her Macbook Air.

Words of an Apple Concierge a few months back are ringing in my head now.
It’s good to see this baby still around..

Baby is beaming proudly among all her grandkids.

Sigh. Long live Apple!!

TOILET FETISH

2009-05-20T18:35:00.004+08:00

Why is it that some people have the inexplicable need to snap photos in the toilet (gawd, of all places!!)

Haha.

Roachie's 29th Bday Balloon

Recent pic with the lady who has haircut fetish

GOOD STUFF

2009-05-13T17:43:00.005+08:00

Results were released sometime last week, and I am so filled with relief.

If only I never came to know what else I wanted to do.
This would have been much, much easier….

Yeah, if-onlys are an incredible waste of time. So I can only promise never to let this bad experience stump me again.

Funny thing is that I don’t remember ever hating books or studies in my entire life, yet this was something that had consistently given me pain-in-the-ass sensations.

Anyway!

Roachie is happy with my results and decided to give a special treat.

We hunted down a secluded, un-singapore-like, off the beaten path hidden gem that serves great food at affordable prices. Nothing makes me more happy than boozing it out against the backdrop of sunset with very spicy chicken wings.

Latest favourite place =)

Level 4 Buffalo Wings

HEARTY BREAKFAST?

2009-05-09T14:42:00.001+08:00

Love heart shape things.

Wanna get a heart shape egg fryer soon! =)

DESSERTS?

2009-05-04T12:42:00.004+08:00

After that less-than-satisfactory bbq session bout two weeks back (think lots of charred food and bad cooks), we attempted to redeem our taste buds with a mini desserts bbq over the weekend.

Gotta love marshmallows!

LOUDSPEAKERS AND GLOBALISATION

2009-05-03T19:57:00.002+08:00

As I was done with my valet duties (ie. parking the car at an area within close proximity to nutcase's office), I headed towards the bus stop, whipped out my dainty ipod and got ready for a long, unending ride home.

Little did I know that the atmosphere which greeted me during the seemingly boring journey could turn out to be quite interesting.

It was the typical on-board-the-bus scene though; teenagers busy with their PSPs/text messages, adults with their eyes glued on tv mobile, some fixated with the night view outside while a few others were simply staring into space. And then there were a few jokers chattering away loudly in gibberish.

A sucker for new languages that I am, I prepped up my ears and started to listen. Not eavesdropping ok, they were too loud anyway.

A young girl was laughing and chatting happily behind me in, presumably Burmese. Another two older women in front going at it in Thai. And next to me was a loud girl who looks local but speaks with a pseudo American accent.

How diverse, I thought to myself. But need so loud meh?

The champion loudspeaker though, was an African man, who boarded towards the later part of the journey. His voice had the booming effect and it didn't help that he was on the verge of yelling ok.

Obviously he was getting on everyone's nerves. I would had been pissed too, but I felt mildly amused instead. The way his language sounded made me think of Russell Peter's hysterical standups! ..my name is *click tongue* Pillay!!.. muhahaha

And yes. There is the infamous PRC included in this little observation as well. Nobody leaves out a PRC from a story of loud speakers ok, NOBODY!!!! Surprisingly, this gentleman was no match for the yelling African. That, or he was sitting too far back from me to be audible.

Suddenly the word globalisation makes a whole lot of sense. Not only swept by globalisation, this dearly-loved nation has been commercialised to perfection, and the evidence lies in how people of all shapes, sizes and nationalities have been flocking over of late.

I'm sure nobody's being a xenophobe here, but the number of PRCs in this island does get overwhelming at times. Especially more so when you keep having bad encounters with some of them who give you hell for no particular reason. But I guess we've got to be fair to those good ones as well. Those who diligently and unerringly set on the course of their work and lives here. Those who bother to adapt and want to belong. I think they deserve a place in this city-state just as much as the rest do.

TRAPPED

2009-04-28T08:43:00.005+08:00

Not too surprisingly, I am trapped once again.

Found myself reading things I shouldn't be reading by now. Asking questions that don't define me. Getting ready for things I don't look forward to. Pulling off oxymoronics and shoving 'em down an unwilling soul.

Moron.

It has become a new-found, not-very-much-loved personal idiosyncrasy.

All charged, yet half-drained.

The battle continues!

The game will never be over
because we're keeping the dream alive..

Timeless and inspirational =)

LEARNING

2009-04-05T16:45:00.001+08:00

Does it matter if our bodies grow and age, that our bank accounts expand or diminish, if our minds, if our hearts and our souls and our passions stay stagnant and rapidly expire?

Yes, rapidly — you’d be surprised how quickly the mundane routines of a “good day” can set a pattern from which we rarely escape.

We build our homes and our comfort zones and refuse to budge from either. We become fearful beings, greedily and pettily protecting what we think we own, whatever possessions that make up ourcurrent market value.

We transform into robots that constantly calculate what they are worth.

I fear we may be worth nothing if we don’t move, if we accept everything that is thrown at us, if we regard evil as an unavoidable nuisance in our daily lives that can be tolerated if we ignore it enough.

History has no lessons for us, for we seem unable to learn from it. I must admit that my reluctance to learn in the past, to try something new has cost me greatly.

And have I learned from this lesson — of not learning?

Extracted from Life for Beginners - Kenny Mah
(http://lifeforbeginners.com)

THE END IS NIGH

2009-04-03T11:42:00.012+08:00

Janice:
Hi any probs wif the report? If not gotta send it by tomorrow morn.

Me:
No probs at all. Pls go ahead and send out our excellent report. Haha.

Janice:
Rite. Proud of it.

With that project completed, what remains now is this other killer shark of a report due next Monday. Sigh eyes going blind from all the researching and reading sigh.

Looking at the bright side, there will be no more assignments after this. Until final exams hits.

After clearing all three units (and I must!).. then I’m done!!!

But what do people always say.. end of one chapter means the beginning of another.

For me the new chapter could be twice as nightmarish or even more, but there are many things that do not fall within my control. Plan A has to be executed carefully while Plan B is on standby.

Meanwhile I managed to steal away some project time to watch The Winter’s Tale. I know I have confessed to being a non-Shakespearean literature fan, but I was dead curious when Imei uttered the magical words - that Ethan Hawke will be performing.

Ethan Hawke on stage?? Very interesting.

And besides, I love watching plays. So why not right.

Some quick highlights:

1) On screen, Ethan Hawke has not exactly been special. Hollywood has been vastly understating him because truth is, this is one talented guy with everything wrapped up in one – actor, writer, comedian and singer. His role on stage as a charming rogue showcased his comedic skills very well, and that was something that stole the show completely. I was stunned, impressed and captivated.

2) The play was a bit like an intense 3-hour literature lesson. Minus the lecturer. I realised I should have read the play before attending. Then don't have to strain my ears just to figure out what's going on. Reading it first would have given me the ability to fully grasp the meaning and underlying themes.

3) Still, I enjoyed it immensely. Amazing bunch of actors, beautiful stage set, nice lighting, good music. What’s there not to like? Helps that we have got great seats too.

4) The Q&A session with some of the actors was fun. For this round Imei totally stole the show. Hahahahaha.

WELSH CORGI

2009-03-23T15:45:00.002+08:00

Hello handsome!

PENANG AMBASSADORS

2009-03-17T16:48:00.006+08:00

Aldrich - Needs To Keep Moving Forward... says:
sell me your birth island... wat's good abt it?
my colleague from penang keeps askin me to go there

Reese says:
u're saying ur colleague didnt manage to sell it to you?

Aldrich - Needs To Keep Moving Forward... says:
erm.. he grumbles abt sg food alot

Reese says: (4:21:21 PM)
oh tell me about it.. i know exactly how he feels

Aldrich - Needs To Keep Moving Forward... says:
he really was selling me his country

** After some more introduction on the lovely island, and a few direct links to Eating Asia, the job was almost done.

Aldrich - Needs To Keep Moving Forward... says:
kway chap!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
i LOVE!!

Check out this interesting streetfood-themed travel show from Al Jazeera.

Wherever you go in the world, the food of the street represents the identity of the people.

Clues to culture, race, and religion can be found in the local cuisine.

TRASH

2009-03-16T01:39:00.005+08:00

Watchmen
- a mere visual fest, with horrible storytelling and stupid lines.

I don't usually take movies too seriously, so getting pissed with a bad show is quite rare for me.

Unless...I start to find myself looking at the watch every 15 minutes while thinking about what other things I could be better off doing.

What annoyed me was that the movie started off on a promising note - with some ingredients of a box office adaptation, the highly regarded DC Comic superheroes and many other makings of a good watch. Yet it failed so miserably to live up to its hype.

After the first half hour, I turned to ask nutcase, when is the story going to start? At that point, there didn't seem to be a direction and the plot was just delivered with messy flashbacks. It didn't get any better after, in fact it was just spiralling downwards to oblivion.

Another thing that I find inexcusable was the randomness, the lack of continuity, the profound stupidity found in the dialogues ("screaming like an abattoir full of retarded children"???), and the overall sense of pointlessness. So unbearable that it's amazing.

It got so painful to watch that I was fidgeting in my seat, going to the washroom to kill time, looking around wondering how people could be so patient after parting with 10 bucks to watch plain trash, and even forcing myself to sleep.

When all else failed, I tried to psych myself up to continue watching. Thought maybe I was the only who was bored out of my mind.

When I heard a stranger's LOUD snore towards the end of the very LONG movie, I knew I was not the only one who's bored. I chuckled away continuously and told nutcase that the snoring guy could probably be the only saving grace for the entire time we were there.

I'm still inclined to believe that Watchmen essentially has a good story to tell, but the director missed it and gave us something incredibly sketchy instead.

MADE WITH LOVE

2009-03-05T23:38:00.002+08:00

Happy birthday to Ms Barney! :p

Colourful mess..

Me got personal instructor one ok!

We went for this scrapbooking class as part of the collect IC plan (heh heh).

Had fun with the wonderful assortment of pretty papers and embellishments provided, added our own photos, turned them into colorful pieces, and then spent some time in the store ooh and ahh-ings at the wonderful range of scrapbooking materials available.

Thanks for taking me there babe.
Looking forward to more sessions with you soon!

BUMPING

2009-02-27T10:15:00.002+08:00

Here is Edward Bear coming
downstairs now, bump, bump, bump,
on the back of his head...
It is, as far as he knows,
the only way of coming downstairs,
but sometimes he feels that
there is another way...if only
he could stop bumping for a moment
and think about it.

-- Winnie-the-Pooh, A.A. Milne, 1926

GOT SOUL

2009-02-22T23:35:00.002+08:00

I am taking this piece of quote from a prominent Asia food blogger.
(http://eatingasia.typepad.com/eatingasia/2009/01/portraits-of-pe.html)

"With each visit to Penang we like it more.

There's the food, of course - undoubtedly Malaysia's best. And the stunning prewar architectural gems of Georgetown. But there's more to it than that. Penang's got soul. It's got a living, breathing street culture."

In that post, Robyn Eckhardt covered food locations known mostly to locals only, from the fruit selling sisters at Lebuh Cintra, to Pulau Tikus Market, and even Balik Pulau laksa. These are not exactly hidden at remote areas and anyone who has done decent homework will be able to find out. So the impressive part is really the fabulous pictures, coupled with discerning write-ups. You can see the writer's effort and passion for food all over the place.

Anyway, moving along now. About the trip back home.

I enjoyed myself thoroughly. Feasted on lots of food, earned me some decent hongbaos, went on road trips to Sitiawan, Ipoh, Kinta Valley, caught a movie at the cinema with mum and dad, had fun catching up with Dee, and much more. All the simple quality moments.

Some of the pics..

The noisy bunch with their perfect sets of teeth. And I look stupid.

Look at that face. Really nutcase right!! =D

The pretty foodies at Matang Beach. Haha.

TVB file sharing in progress

Ipoh has the best dimsum in the whole country!

An old friend's place at Kinta Valley

Reacquaintance with nature

Your eyes would thank you for this

The old colonial bungalow that we stayed in

DUPED

2009-02-18T18:16:00.004+08:00

Synchronicity
"a meaningful coincidence of two or more events, where something other than the probability of chance is involved" - Carl Jung

Such fanciful terms and theory we have to explain the logical idea of things happening for a reason.

CAKES

2009-02-04T16:34:00.007+08:00

I am going home this weekend!

But before that there are loads to do.

Apart from the usual mundane errands that need a lot of running around, there are two important missions that need to be accomplished. Collection and delivery missions, that is.

I know how mom and dad are so completely in love with the cakes we tasted at an uncle's place during the chinese new year visit. Gluttony runs in the family ok. And I am going to be the delivery girl for these cakes =)

The effort taken during the process - looking up contact numbers, estimating right amount and placing orders, arranging schedule to pick up the goodies, and finally carrying them back home with much care. All going to be well worth it. Little thoughts count ma.

After all, this is the best I could do. Though I would love to bake the cakes myself, I must admit that I suck at it. The previous baking experiment that my classmates and I courageously delved into went terribly wrong.

And the mango bread serve as a strong testimony to our lack of baking skills (or none of it!), and also as a strong reminder to never try baking again.

So anyway I will be collecting the Golden Carrot Cake (critically-acclaimed leh) from Orchard Hotel's Hua Ting Restaurant. Followed by the Choc Fudge Cake from Lana Cakes at Greenwood Avenue.

Omg major yums. Double happiness. =))

SPRING CLEANING

2009-01-24T15:47:00.000+08:00

I had a round of scrubbing, dusting and washing over the last weekend.

Saw for myself the mess I have accumulated. It's amazing how so many things can have their sentimental value even though most were either collecting dust or wasting precious space in my little room.

Good riddance

Anyway they are gone now muahaha.

Gone with the old, start with the new yeah.

Happy lunar new year folks!

GLORIOUS FOODIES

2009-01-14T17:10:00.005+08:00

The new year has seen a dramatic surge in my tvb indulgence, and a sudden decrease in blogging activities.

THIS IS SO NOT RIGHT.

To jumpstart the cold engine, Dee and I have started a new blog =)

Do pay a visit to our food blog which is designed to tempt each other's taste buds, while keeping track of all the greasy calories and sinful decadence. Work on the blog is, of course, still in progress, but we will do our best to throw in enhancements/improvements whenever we can.

So back to my entry here.

I am going to backtrack a bit to post all the previous stuff that I have not been posting. Since I am on the topic of food here, will pin up a few more food pics - from the HK trip.

Minimal words to keep the emphasis on pictures.

Streetside - one of the best that local foodfare has to offer!

Milk tea is good, but not as good as yin yong

YIN YONG!!!!! The next best thing since Malibu Rum

Sang Meen/Crispy Noodles

Smelly DaoFoo *runs away*

Overrated and way too sweet

A very original bowl of Gung Zhai Meen

Hui Liu Shan Mango Desserts are..

Really Really..

Wonderfully Addictive =)

Chicken Chop Macau style or something. Nice.

Roasted mix platter - siu yoke plus chicken i think

Love Dim Sum!

And Dim Sum stalls too =)

This one needs no intro. Yummy!

Nothing too fantastic about this one though :(

Curry Fishball. Mission accomplished!

What else can I say.. You just have to love Hong Kong.

STINKY SEOW

2008-12-17T17:29:00.001+08:00

Conversation over email.

Better than caffeine ok! Heh heh.

-----Original Message-----
From: Iris Lee
Sent: Wednesday, December 17, 2008 3:47 PM
To: Amanda Lin
Subject: RE: seow phone

Later go home and check ur mailbox k..
The person told me that you can receive the bill latest by wed..
If dun have, they die!!

Anyway I juz signed up for paperless billing..
So next bill onwards I can forward to ur email..

Amanda's reply:
good.. actually i also plan to ask u to do that.. mah huan nia nvm, if
tonite dun have, can u please ask them to " eat banana" wahhaa

Me:
Eat banana?? More like stuff smelly shoes into their mouths!

Amanda:
wahaaa... okok..
juz dun charge me for late payment.. if not, smelly shoe not enuf..
I WILL STUFF THEM MY UNDERWEAR...

Me:
Wah u saying ur underwear is more smelly than a smelly shoe isit??

LOL

HUNGRY

2008-12-15T00:21:00.006+08:00

Due to insurmountable stress over the past few weeks, my appetite has shot up the roof, it seems.

Some friends were quite alarmed at the rate I have been gorging myself. Colleagues especially. And then there was Jo, who couldn't stop poking fun at me for trying to eat and talk at the same time (...)

I had all sorts of funny cravings.

Two days ago I kept "psycho-ing" nutcase on eating crabs, to which he agreed but it has to be done the following week because of exams. But the craving was too strong to be ignored so eventually I gave up, squeezed in some time and headed off to Mellben at Toa Payoh.

Finally... the food that calms my raging appetite ...

....creamy butter crabs..

Yum =)

OVERWHELMED

2008-11-24T15:44:00.002+08:00

Signs that we are being overwhelmed by 'the endless barrage of dismal economic news'

From: 'Kevin Lee'
Sent: Monday, November 24, 2008 3:32 PM
To: Iris Lee
Subject:

Dar citi got bailout laio… I also need one….haha

From: Iris Lee
Sent: Monday, November 24, 2008 3:46 PM
To: 'Kevin Lee'
Subject: RE:

dbs is bailing u out in 2 days time dun worry
my bailout package will be out tmrw..

BLOOPERS

2008-11-17T23:41:00.000+08:00

I need to congratulate myself for being such an idiot.

My delusional mind fooled me into believing that today is the day.

Absolutely the silliest mistake that one can ever commit.

Anyway I am so not looking forward to the driving test on Wednesday. Scared of failing. If I did, the chances of me going back for a retake is almost zero.

Plain waste of time and money in succumbing to the grand orderly system.

I know I sound bitter, but I can never get over the multiple daylight robberies that the damned driving centre has committed to countless innocent civilians like myself. Where is mercy?

I also know that there's no point whining. Not as if somebody forced me into this. But it's quite a lot of money we are talking about here ok. So must whine a bit lah.

PANIC

2008-11-08T11:55:00.003+08:00

It started with a frozen screen, and the error message “You need to restart your computer” in several languages.

So I thought - fine. Baby is being invaded by some silly little error. No sweat!

I restarted. And waited.

To my horror the damned thing appeared again. I stared at the lifeless, frozen screen, and then decided that I should probably try again. After restarting about 5 times or so, and getting the same old error message, my heart almost stopped beating. Was really worried. And terrified.

In a very typical fashion I was regretting all my ill-mannered treatment to this dear little thing. The keyboard punching antics, the occasional rough handling, and the worst of the lot – I left a cafe yesterday without taking baby along with me!! Thank god it didn’t take me long to realise and then dash back to the place.

Anyway I contemplated on what the next move should be. Take it back to Apple Centre where they can slice my throat once again? After that 20 bugs-per-password reset episode, I figured that I will never step foot into an Apple Concierge ever. If I could help it…

So I whipped out the trusty little mobile phone and googled for a solution. Immediately spotted a new term called kernel panic… was scrolling and browsing through the 1001 possible reasons and solutions *sweats* before I got really impatient.

The hell I know what kernel panic is!! I just know that I feel very panicky now!!

And I want to solve this stupid shit!!!!

In the end, it turns out to be a memory overload kind of problem. I don’t think it’s as simple as the way I just put it, but technicalities is so not my language. Fix the problem can already.

Poor baby was so overstuffed with my junk and other important data that it almost broke down.

I shall scoot now to do a proper clean up and also backup the HK photos.

PINK CLOUDS

2008-11-07T10:19:00.001+08:00

...."I am Evan, and this is my Heart"...

I love the consistently mystifying synth in Star's music. The enchanting voice of Amy Millan and those crazy "deep" lyrics.

So beautiful that it sticks to you and you never, ever get tired of listening to it. I don't remember the last time I found songs that don't wear me out.

And when I need something upbeat, there's Magic Numbers and Stereophonics.

I love how Stereophonics greets me with a "have a nice day" song almost every morning.

I love how they give people hope in Maybe Tomorrow.

How they righteously justify their beliefs in Mr Writer, while proving that they are not musicians who find escapism by sticking in their own little world of drugs and suicidal hate.

Music is my surrogate soulmate =)

NOSTALGIA

2008-10-31T15:40:00.017+08:00

Every now and then we will revive old memories at the corner of our minds and start reminiscing. During a very casual exchange with an old poly friend, we somehow started to talk about those silly crushes and I thought about the three guys that I have had crushes on (or at least thought so) in the past.

MoonFlower - StarCraft2 and Diablo 3!!...Cant wait! says:
no la..not tt extreme la..

MoonFlower - StarCraft2 and Diablo 3!!...Cant wait! says:
wei..dont tell me u oso dont le!!!

MoonFlower - StarCraft2 and Diablo 3!!...Cant wait! says:
i remember the look u gave to terence wen in poly!!!

MoonFlower - StarCraft2 and Diablo 3!!...Cant wait! says:
wahahaha

MoonFlower - StarCraft2 and Diablo 3!!...Cant wait! says:
tt one is classic ok!!

caribbean malibu says:
wei!!

caribbean malibu says:
at least i nvr salivate

caribbean malibu says:
i gave that look oni

caribbean malibu says:
hah

Note: I am typing this away at the risk of roachie's wrath. I am so gona get it.

The first one that comes to mind has to be Terence.

Cute and very amicable, he came across to me as the most perfect crush ever. He was a doing a diploma in sports and wellness, which also means that he is fit and sporty (plus points there) but unfortunately a bit on the short side.

In retrospect, he is not one of the most good looking guys in school and he most certainly doesn't have typical good-looking features such as deep-set mesmerising eyes, sharp nose, well-defined jawline, and so on. But he has a very warm sunshine-y appeal that puts a smile on your face everytime you look at him, a point which all my friends agree with.

I remember how we started a conversation. We were both in the projects team, and the working place is located at this huge and cosy (got pillows!) meeting room equipped with superb sound systems. Naturally we played song after song to entertain ourselves, and that is how we found out about our shared animosity towards the song "An Jing" by...who else but Jay Chou. Every single time the song starts playing we would throw pillows at the "DJ" and demand for another song.

Like him, I was also nursing grief over some broken or troubled relationship and so that became our common topic. There were some mini sparks flying around, no doubt about that, but our similarities did not go very far. So after the projects ended, we carried on with our own lives and remained as friends.

The second one was Jason, a guy I knew from Students Union. The sunshine-y appeal on him is much less evident, though he can still make your day with a very charming smile. And his eyes!! You know how some people's eyes can seem to talk to you? I was so absorbed by his eyes that at times I lost track of what he was saying (.......)

So much for infatuation.

First look, he struck me as an average pretty boy, so not much of an impression was formed there. But as we got more and more involved in the union activities his personality seemed to shine through. He is a good conversationalist..very well-versed with most of the topics under the sun, so I was inclined to think that he is just another sweet-talker.

Guys like that are usually great sweet-talkers, no?

In his case, I was so wrong. He doesn't just sweet talk, he puts those words into sweet actions.. and at the right time too! Everyone could see it from the way he treats his girl (sniff sniff).

Here comes the REAL sweet-talker.

The third one shall be unnamed. He is from my one of the banks that I used to work for so I won't risk putting up details. Not many people agree with me but I seriously think that he looks like the Asian version of Jude Law. And Jude Law equals yum.

At that time I was struggling to get over a bad fallout from a relationship. Maybe it was the vulnerable state of mind that made me feel differently. After a couple of dates I was pretty much swept up by his charms and eloquence.

Then I found out about his girlfriend.. that he is just out for a good time. Needless to say the entire episode was very drama-filled, and it did not take me long to flee. Needless to say again, life became much better after that. As charming and good looking as he may be, his character and intentions stink. Good thing that what I felt for this guy was nothing more than a crush.

Anyway. I better make myself clear before Roachie kills me for posting this entry. Put up some sort of a disclaimer to prevent unnecessary "questioning" (like where these guys stay and blah). Hee hee.

These are just recollections of silly high-school sort of crushes, and is in no way indicative of the type of guy I am into.

Ok so the third one was not THAT long ago. But after a bad relationship fallout I was not very different from the superficial little girl in poly.

Those were the days when I could fall in love with a pair of eyes or go weak in the knees over some guy who has a flair with guitars. Everyone has a different concept of love in their younger days, and so did I.

Having a sunshiney-looking boyfriend invites too much unnecessary attention from the girls..a.k.a. an indirect invitation to the green monster that lies within.

I would love to listen to what my boyfriend has to say while at the same time making eye contact, so I don't need a pair of killer eyes for me to lose myself into.

What I really need though, is a caring, down-to-earth, and wonderful cockroach who plays the guitar *winks*

CHARMED

2008-10-28T20:10:00.012+08:00

Traipsing around the cosmopolitan city, taking in all the familiar sights and sounds, I felt at ease. The kind of feeling you get after staying in a place for a while. (must be thanks to heavy doses of tvb serials over the years)

With the exception of protruding, in-your-face signages and billboards, it didn't really feel like I have left Singapore. Though some areas are so densely-populated and overcrowded that the phrase "packed like sardines in a can" should be changed to "packed like Hong Kongers in Kowloon".

The people here go about their daily business at break-neck speed, but it doesn't appear like they have left their social graces along the way. Most people give way at the escalators, at the entrance of the train door, and they even form queues while waiting for the train door to open! Have I mentioned how I LOVE the annoucements being made in Cantonese? Very homey feeling.

Store assistants are ever chirpy and helpful, greeting customers happily and telling them niceties such as "feel free to look around!". They sounded really genuine, and that is a real sweet suprise for someone who came from the land of indifferent "welcome-to-giordano :(" greetings.

Being a very typical me, I paid a hundred percent attention to the food. And the strategy paid off well. Had I focused more on shopping, I would be sorely disappointed as the shops were mostly selling clothes for winter.

less than half are mine..

As it turned out, roachie got more stuff for himself while I munched on endlessly.

We covered mango desserts, milk tea, yuanyang, instant noodles, dimsum, smelly doufu, roasted meat, krispy kreme donuts and the streetside food such as curry fishball, woon zhai chee (artificial sharks fin?), and many others don't-know-whats that taste really good.

The yuanyang and mango desserts are so orgasmic, they deserve another entry of their own.

...yum..

ROAR!

2008-10-25T11:43:00.003+08:00

a very quintessential photo in central

Day 1 was all about concrete jungle trekking. Roachie needed to meet up with colleagues.

The CBD was buzzing with TGIF spirit as all the Cantonese speaking execs zoomed past me - so surreal and homey.

Me like all the back alleys selling old world stuff!!

VODKA REDBULL

2008-10-21T16:13:00.006+08:00

Random title. Was discussing with Dee on the variety of "sleepless tonics".

She suggested Redbull and I was wondering why I haven't tried it before. Without the Vodka, I mean.

I haven't been sleeping well for the past few days and this is kinda taking its toll on me. The mind and body is still functioning (yeah!!), but the face can hardly take it. Snores.

Other than keeping myself busy with work to stay awake, making follow-up calls and stuff like that helps too. And then there's msn, the life-saver. It keeps me from crashing my face onto the keyboard halfway while typing some long-winded reports or emails.

***

malibu's spinning head says:
i wont be affected one lah

Jo says:
u know its his fren, but very demure type

Jo says:
those sweet voice will melt a heart of stone

malibu's spinning head says:
eeeks

Jo says:
and ur kevin hv been smsing her, ending with dear, miss u too but claiming that they are just frenz

malibu's spinning head says:
sure will affected wan lah

Jo says:
will u believe?

malibu's spinning head says:
huh

malibu's spinning head says:
i'd have him killed if he tells another girl things like, dear i miss u too

malibu's spinning head says:
or anything along those lines

malibu's spinning head says:
completely unacceptable

Jo says:
wau, u and i hv same instincts

Jo says:
wahahaha

Jo says:
the killer instincts

=D

TENACITY

2008-09-27T05:20:00.007+08:00

October is going to be one of the more exciting months!

Amid the chaos and uncertainty that had my mind wrapped up for months, I feel thrilled about the things that I can look forward to in the next couple of weeks.

Not really the best of times to feel good, what with all the deepening crisis. But then, this is exactly the reason I feel so blessed.

Somehow, something inside tells me that life must still go on and not only do you make the best out of it, you look forward to the time when it completes a full cycle, and then falls back to normal. I know I sound like I'm completely oversimplifying things here. But there are things in life that we just don't have control over.

So yes I am thrilled.

The last time I felt something similar to this was when I did back-to-back visits between Melbourne and Bangkok.

It wasn't so much of the cities, the bargains, the weather, the people, or even the priceless experience, but rather the crazy excitement that came with pure, simple spontaneity. Followed by frantic yet detailed planning.

I do not know how else to word this kind of feeling other than it being something that means a great deal to me.

This round of craziness is going to be a milder, less aggressive and much more scaled down version of what I had back then, but as usual, one person is all it takes to make a difference.

My to-do list for the next 2-3 weeks is crazy overwhelming. Somebody please give me another two pairs of hands and legs!

THE SECOND COMING

2008-09-17T15:52:00.004+08:00

Things fall apart; the center cannot hold;
Mere anarchy is loosed upon the world,
The blood-dimmed tide is loosed, and everywhere
The ceremony of innocence is drowned;

Times like these, the words of William Butler Yeats ring many many bells for the bailout nation's financial nightmare and also the much-dreaded chain reaction.

Not forgetting the sorry state of Malaysia's politics too.

CARNAGE

2008-09-15T23:52:00.001+08:00

My heart bled with each call that came through. With each email I sent. With each words that tripped out of my mouth during an interview.

It's more or less a situation of idealism vs. pragmatism. I think I have some problems in coming to terms with reality. Not that I am or ever was an idealist. In fact it was the overdose of realism that landed me to where I am now, not to mention the things it has taken away from me. Life is always so ironic.

So, naturally, I morphed into someone with moderate beliefs, thoughts and expectations. Good things turn bad when you overdo it. Nutcase says that chasing after balance is another form of ideal in itself. So I’m still his silly little idealistic girl who thinks that the world is surrounded by pink cotton candies. Boo. We have had countless debates on this issue, but let's not forget about the beauty of having different opinions, aite?

Anyway, last I checked, the heart has stopped bleeding and is now being nursed with much care. The two "final" calls I received made me somewhat relieved that the decision has been made (like it or not!!). I hope that this is really the best for me. For now, of course.

In the mean time, I haven't forgotten how lucky I am, so I shall just count my lucky stars =)

Some Other Thoughts:

- Ms Xiaoangel, I have finally updated! ;p

- My brain is defunct and I need to borrow a new one.

- The world seems to be downward-spiralling towards more crisis (financially, morally, environmentally, the list goes on)..

- Funny conversation with Dee. For the millionth time we typed the exact same thing at the exact same time. The distance-defying frequency levels that we share is crazy.

malibu ingenue says: (6:16:30 PM)
correction: crappy and sweet bff who eats my rasa sayang buffet on my behalf

deemia says: (6:16:30 PM)
U'VE GOT THE GOOD FOOD AND UR BESTIE TO EAT ON UR BEHALF

deemia says: (6:16:32 PM)
MUAHAHAHA

malibu ingenue says: (6:16:40 PM)
OMG
malibu ingenue says: (6:16:45 PM)
we're in sync again

malibu ingenue says: (6:16:46 PM)
lol

deemia says: (6:16:52 PM)
OH, WE'RE HAVING THE SAME FREQUNCY AGAIN!
deemia says: (6:17:03 PM)
HAHAHAHHAHA

*******

Pleasant surprise! Got mini fireworks and lanterns to play with!!!

Nutcase is the besth!

POOR MISGUIDED FOOL

2008-08-22T22:07:00.006+08:00

This is great =)

Baby mac is enjoying herself now with the vast amount of space, breezy air, and most importantly; a non-leeched, all-original, all-paid-for internet connection!!

At least she's got a little bit of something to be proud about now. It's a shame that she has an owner who is too stingy for her own good.

Anyway, I had wanted to say this earlier, but nowadays it has always been one thing after another.

See, the other day I was listening to one of the older songs by Starsailor (new songs suck, but that's not the point). And I thought of someone whom I have been holding onto with quite a bit of contempt.

Judging from recent events, some may think that I'm referring to the cousin. But nope!

I'm talking about a poor, poor misguided fool.

I have no idea how to continue this without making it too obvious. Besides, I just realised that this person has been following my blog quietly. Silent readers scare me okay.

So here's the song to my dear old friend. No offense, but I really thought of you when I heard this. I hate to judge or whatever, but you chose to step on mousey's little tail. A little bit of contempt is in due order okay.

I don't see myself when I look in the mirror

I see who I should be

I don't see myself when I look in your eyes

Thank God for that

--- In The Crossfire

THE TRIP

2008-08-18T18:16:00.001+08:00

Baby mac is brimming with delight!

And so is the owner =)

RATS

2008-08-10T23:37:00.007+08:00

doesn't get any cuter than this!

Need to complain!! So far the Rat Year has proven to be pretty much inauspicious. Bitchy people gravitate towards me like I'm the black hole or something.

Help!!

At first these bitches' presence are limited only within the office. Next thing I know somebody from poly days is assuming a somewhat similar role too.

So surprised to hear that someone is trying to tarnish my reputation. Questions and many more questions. Why now? Why did she not do it in the past? Cos nobody close enough to me would have believed her lies? Or she just eat full full, nothing better to do?

We really have very colourful creatures on earth, don't we? They come in different variations, never failing to spring surprises no matter what, and best part is they will never ever extinct!

Enough of the pesky irritants for now.

There are a few overdue photos that I have wanted to post up for quite some time already. From Dear and Desmond's birthday at Settlers Inn.

tio sabo..can see the 3 "streams" of sweat rolling down

tio forfeit. damn funny lah the animal masks

us and the humongous mango cake (!!!)

uncanny resemblance...

FREE-SPIRITED

2008-07-26T02:43:00.005+08:00

Other than the crummy, depression-causing and emotionally challenging job that I'm currently serving notice to (2 more days!), life is still alrite . There has been a couple of fun stuffs going on, and it's all good distraction from work-related pains.

Milder people go for heineken

So anyway.

Happy birthday once again to the June and July babies (all 5 of em, including Fiza)!! Hope that the presents are not too shabby..

Also, happy anniversary to my nutcase!! Thankew for the lovely dinner at Mingles and the incredibly wonderful "presents" that you have compacted into one! The flame continues to burn brightly =)

HAPPINESS

2008-07-20T15:28:00.008+08:00

Thank God.

It has been said, that in the end of all things you would find a new beginning..

After eight long years, evil stirs from its long absence in the world of sanctuary and threatens to tremble the high heavens..wooooooh..

I miss all those thrilling moments of blood-splattering and bones-breaking of brazen undeads deep under the creepy dungeons. Casting wonderful magic spells while exploring different potions and powers. And those scary final encounters with vicious, intimidating bosses!!

This time round the screenshots released by Blizzard looks very pleasing to my goth-hungry soul, although there seem to be more vibrant colors involved. A clever mix of both elements, I hope.

Expectations will be kept in check until I get my hands on the game. Yum.

AUDACITY OF HOPE

2008-07-17T18:01:00.005+08:00

The 21st century will be the century of change. More things will change in more places in the next 10 years than in the previous 100. Most countries aren't ready for this dizzying ride - certainly not the United States of America.

- Fareed Zakaria, Newsweek

SEDUCTION

2008-07-14T00:45:00.001+08:00

CNG (Compressed Natural Gas, more fondly and more importantly known as Cheap Natural Gas ;p ) blew a kiss and Dar relented.

The "aftermath"..

Another Hyundai?

The little girl who has always been infatuated with Toyota-nism protested, and was silenced almost immediately by the Hyundai advocator. And the Lexus-looking back...

Having a substantial rear is already like, plus 200 points. Having a Lexus-inspired and substantial rear? Plus 1000 points.

On a less superficial note, this is still a pretty unassuming vehicle, but its quality is solid enough to pack quite a punch to the mid-class sedan market.

REESE'S REVELATION?

2008-06-25T23:36:00.006+08:00

An alliteration!! Nice sounding little thing there.

This entry has been sitting in my draft page for a couple of days now. By publishing it, I know that the decision will no longer be reversible.

I shall let this out of my chest before it eats me up.

Ok so here's the thing.

I am getting rid of a major pain in the ass.

THE JOB.

Might not sound like a perfectly sane thing to do. In fact some people thought I was out of my mind.

Truth is I did weigh my options really carefully. And spent countless nights (my precious beauty sleep...) thinking this through.

Another truth is, I had wanted to leave since the second month. I knew where I was being led to and I did not like it. With family ties being put at stake, things became so much more complicated. Although I was not completely in the know, I could smell something terribly wrong.

And it went beyond just wrong. Everything that could possibly go wrong, went wrong. It became an excruciating nightmare, and a painfully sordid ordeal. I am doubting if these words are even enough to describe the magnitude of it all.

Then again God is always fair.

First-hand experience of the corporate world brutality really opened up my eyes. We all know that politicking is common in the workplace, and it usually stems from the lure of personal gain and interests.

But, when it is brought to such an absurd extent, something tells me that it has way surpassed just power and greed.

Or perhaps the longing for these two is so intense that it translates into something evil? It is as if they would be happy to see each other dead. Whichever the case may be, demure reesey does not fit anywhere in the organization.

Then again, I cannot possibly deny the valuable lessons I have reaped out of this.

My back may have been slashed quite badly by all those knives, but I would also like to think that I have emerged stronger as a whole. And probably less prone to back damage in future?

More importantly, I was given the opportunity to work closely with this colleague (sent down from heaven) who is really encouraging and helpful. Thanks to her, and a few others too, the threshold level was upped by a few more notches.

Still, no amount of threshold was ever enough when it comes to dealing with a terror creature selected from devil's elite to cause mass disorganization and mental breakdown to humanity.

Some things in life, no matter how you look at it, are just not worth the torture you know?

Anyway I came to realise that if I do not decide on this quickly and firmly, I could just kiss my sanity goodbye sooner than later.

One thing's for sure - my goals are still crystal clear. I shall spend the days ahead to carve out a new path.

Life is still good =)

HOMESICK

2008-06-23T00:08:00.004+08:00

It was great to be home with dearest mommy fussing over me, as usual

=)

Ah.. I'm getting all homesickly!

The thought of packing up and leaving this rat-race land has crept into my mind plenty of times. And especially more so this time round.

I said crept, because there will always be this nagging voice that dominates the mind, telling me that going back may not be a good decision. So much at stake that it's becoming difficult to balance.

I know I love all the wonderful orderli-ness that sillypore provides. The top-notch efficiency. The ubiquitous shopping malls to blow our budgets on. And then there is my favourite nutcase known as dar.

I know I love the strong currency too, cos travelling and some other plans become less painful to the wallets. The ultimate goal will be easier to achieve if I remain focused, and not complain so much... ....

What else can I do but to press on?

Mind's a bit too fuzzy to think so much now.

RICE DUMPLING & VOLCANO

2008-06-12T22:12:00.003+08:00

jaena~ Loving Peko and Blue... Fairytale.. self indulgence?? says:
reesey not face black black..

malibu ingenue says:
yah
malibu ingenue says:
=)
malibu ingenue says:
hehehehe

jaena~ Loving Peko and Blue... Fairytale.. self indulgence?? says:
ya juz now is like doomsday rite

malibu ingenue says:
nolah not as bad as doomsday
malibu ingenue says:
jst volcano about to erupt only

jaena~ Loving Peko and Blue... Fairytale.. self indulgence?? says:
heng the bah zhang block the vent

jaena~ Loving Peko and Blue... Fairytale.. self indulgence?? writes:

malibu ingenue says:
wah piang
malibu ingenue says:
hahahahaha

jaena~ Loving Peko and Blue... Fairytale.. self indulgence?? says:
kekekeke...

COSMIC YEARNING

2008-05-28T22:38:00.006+08:00

Following The Wrong God Home
Catherine Lim

- A warm mix of intrigue and endearment

- Not a hint of religious propaganda

- Poems are simple yet bursting with lyrical grace

- All wrapped up beautifully in a flawless tapestry of words, rich with thoughts and emotions

Best of all, it is not another happily-ever-after kind of romance novel. It is very real, with issues that lies close to our hearts. Every part was injected with harsh realities of our pragmatic society and the raw pain of being torn apart by the call of duty, money versus love, and cultural differences.

That's our local writer for you.

Enough of the emoe stuff. Some pick chas!

Cafe Del Mar...

...on a warm sunshine-y day...

...along with Mrs Chew (also known as dear)

and Pek Har..lol

to celebrate lobster boy's bday..

there was the usual sabotage..

also got jackie chan part ii..lol

all the happy people

.........(!!)

ENTANGLED BLACK POTS

2008-05-17T02:49:00.004+08:00

Being humans we tend to judge a bit too quickly at times.

Me, I try as best as I can to not do it.

But..... It's especially hard when you're dealing with self-righteous dipshits who rattles on about their judgment on other people incessantly. Like god almighty trying to save his good people.

I do not know about that person, but I haven't been telling people that their math is poor when I know mine is not very much better off. Classic case of pot calling the kettle black?? Anyway, the math part is only an example.

The problem here is, there are things which are off-limits. And if you somehow made your way to this unknown territory, then you should know that you have conveyed a powerful message to the other person. Regardless of what self-fulfilling justifications that one may conjure, there really is nothing much left to say. And that's about it. Full stop.

I have been ranting a bit too much lately, I figured it's about time I cut down and concentrate on the things that truly makes me happy. The story above does not even involve me.

No point getting worked up, I guess.

So is the island up to expectations? Perhaps. I won't go as far as calling it a fantastic holiday, but the presence of someone special really makes a world of difference. Or make that a universe of difference.

The best part is the whole "private beach" idea, because this ain't Redang nor Tioman. Few people know about this little gem. And even fewer people willing to appreciate the lack of commercial value. But that is exactly the reason why it is unspoilt and so close to nature's best.

Another plus point is the sand. To me a beach is not a beach unless it has really fine and close to white sand. The beach has sand bordering on the fineness of your average compact powder, and its colour adds greatness to the clear blue sea. Not very good on the eyes though, as it gets a bit too glaring at noontime, sun's shining glory and all.

swim into the blue!

this way to tribal's council!

private time with trusty ol' handphone cam

gushing..muacks muacks

WEEKEND BREAK

2008-05-10T01:19:00.001+08:00

I am finally going for a short vacation with dar.

The location was picked with much thought into what we really need and what we have in our wallets.

So, here we come Rawa!

As understated as this little island may seem, I have heard many great comments on the scenery, waters, sand, and every other thing that most nearby islands fail to deliver. I cross my fingers and hope that what I hear is what I get =)

BLASPHEMY

2008-04-19T13:05:00.007+08:00

The latest Jackie Chan and Jet-Li film is nothing short of disturbing.

For a start, we had good vibes about the movie. Not the high expectations kind, but more of eagerness and excitement. We thought that the veteran pair is a winning combination, and it seemed like no plot could fail them.

Imagine how the audience must have felt, those growing up watching these stalwart actors as protagonist leads, only to realise that a random puny white kid is the "torch-bearer", somehow.

Hello? Our titan collaboration deserves something better than that lah!!

I distinctly remember how Jet-Li's character laughed out heartily when he was told the boy is the seeker of the staff or something. Our sentiments exactly!!

It's not like we were expecting some Journey To The West adaptation. We knew that only certain parts will be used to create a story that ultimately puts the spotlight on kungfu.

But the last thing we expected is for this group of jokers to turn the whole classic upside down and make it into some glorious looking shit!

The movie bluffed its way almost throughout the entire 2 hours with completely slashed and brutalized scenes from the original folklore. It's close to how a nightmare makeover would look like.

It is entertaining though, to see how a very bland teenage American boy managed to fulfill a prophecy, kill a terrestrial warlord, and save Sun Wukong - all with his inferior martial arts skill.

SAVE SUN WUKONG leh!!!

If this isn't blasphemy then I don't know what is.

And I see no indication whatsoever from the poorly-inspired title of 'forbidden kingdom'. Whoever gave the movie its title obviously ran out of ideas.

A very half-hearted attempt. This is as mediocre as it gets.

MORE RANT

2008-04-11T01:15:00.003+08:00

My favourite bitch did something insignificant today, yet again.

What's a girl to do when she has to deal with such a lowlife protoplasm? She 'siam' like nobody's business!! Yep she managed to escape from buying lunch for the whole population of Africa. At Jumbo Seafood Restaurant. With lobsters as one of the main dishes.

Dear Miss Brainless Imbecile, last I recalled, I am only earning about half of the amount you do. You might want to keep your mosquito habits at bay, because there's nothing for you to suck on anyway.

The toughest part I have to deal with so far, it seems, is to erase the brain cells that remind me over and again that you are somehow related to me - by blood (yes, blood that you attempted to suck)

And!!! Lest you think karma is working its way through this mess of a person that she is, well apparently not!!!!

When she prays, she gets all the good vibes (or maybe it's her puny prehistoric mentality that failed her, i don't know) and then to top it all off, she gets good prediction for the near future too.

Oh I know.

God must be busy attending to someone significant, like me and you =)

LOSING GRIP

2008-04-04T00:34:00.004+08:00

Today a lecturer made me a very happy girl. The moment I heard what he said I went weak in the knees and almost died of joy. Simply because I have never thought of myself in that way.

We all need a little bit of motivation, don't we?

I've been burning up too much fuel over the past couple of weeks and I kept losing focus. It took me 5 minutes this morning just to get my pc password right, and another 10 to get a hold of myself.

The stress level is incredible.

You live and you learn, I thought.

So I pushed on.

And found myself stretched like a rubberband.

THE BALANCE

2008-03-27T23:49:00.002+08:00

Afraid of disrupting the harmony, I tread the line separating both worlds - carefully.

I'm in the perfect balance between heaven and hell. Yay.

A typical ''nature's wonder'' picture

Couldn't help myself cos the clouds were so fluffy!!

I love fluffiness in my clouds, and even though those are nothing close to the whiteness I adore, at least they are in a pretty shade of colour (pink? purple? maroonish-orange?).

While we were consumed with the day's work issues and troubles, we hardly paid attention to anything surrounding us. But slowly the realisation came, the skies have been wrapped up beautifully in those purple pink clouds..

One of those great pick-me-up methods that doesn't cost you any damn thing.

That's about as much as I have to say about work...

As for the exam fever, I've levelled up my game by quite a fair bit now. Still plenty more to go though.

Thankew to the boifie for helping with revision.

Those irritating Math equations! (-_-")

I'm impressed that he still remembers his uni work, even after graduating for so long.

LITTLE PLANT

2008-03-14T10:13:00.000+08:00

Hullo Dee!

Remember the teeeney little plant you got for Pat from Ikea when you came down last year?

Have I got news for you.

Little monster has grown this huge in just a span of 4 months!!

Not so little anymore

Everyday before I leave the house I would gaze at this pretty plant in all its morning sunshine glory. Somehow it just reminds me of how you have always been like - healthy, strong, happy and pretty. Keep that going and don't ever let dark moments overcome you ok.

I hope you are fully recovered now. Stay well!

Hugs!
Reese

STOP SHOVING

2008-03-04T00:37:00.003+08:00

I just. finished. replying. my. emails.

What the flying fuck is this? Somebody save me!!

Now this reminds me of something.
I live with two women, and one of them happens to be quite a pain. You see, there is one thing I simply cannot understand.

Why is it that some people have the insatiable desire to shove their ideas down other people's throat? Why do they see the need to tell people how to live their lives? If what I do works for me, and what you do works for you, and we are not in any way threatening one another, then what is the problem?

Look at the world around you.

These people have gone to war to spread their ~~disease~~ message. They have killed millions for their "beliefs".

I guess they have a huge need to "save" people around them.

I really don't get it.

If I want to go to hell, so let me be.

DISASTER

2008-02-28T23:54:00.000+08:00

Probably the best word to describe work for the past few weeks.

The new system that those smartie-pants spent millions on was so impossible. My team had to play CSI and we all worked until our faces turned green. I cringe to think about the first week of the month, when workload hits the peak.

So anyhow, I decided to keep myself all chirped up to carry on.

with giant pocky sticks!!

love it to bits..

see how big the stick is?

SMOOCH

2008-02-23T00:03:00.001+08:00

25 reasons why he's such an adorable baby.

1. He can change himself into a hulk (i'm annngrrrryyy!!!)
2. He plays the guitar (soft spot leh)
3. He croons like a bird to MJ's song
4. He puts up with my "corner of the eye" look
5. He peels prawns for me all the time, despite knowing that I prefer to chew it with the shell
6. He calls just to say that he misses me
7. He "donkeys" around whenever we go shopping
8. He picks me up from school
9. He fetches me to wherever I go
10. He irritates me, a lot
11. Well. He dotes on me a lot too
12. The "I am so pitiful" face. Super adorable
13. He holds me tight and doesn't let me fall. Not just in the train.
14. He likes to tell corny jokes (and dry ones sometimes. you just don't know whether to laugh or to strangle him)
15. He sits up stiff straight so that I could lie on his shoulders
16. He stiffs up his muscles just so I could go ooh and aaahh (hehe)
17. He dusts and cleans and wipes the little car so that my nose will not complain
18. We share tips on facial cleansing and most of the beauty products (lol)
19. That cheeky, old horny uncle laugh
20. Helps to vacuum when he stays over
21. Buys me 100 plus after each jog at the reservoir
22. Dabao breakkie while waiting for me to get ready
23. He sends love notes to my office email
24. He is my personal budget controller.
25. He is a GLUTTON at heart!!!!

Evidence of Gluttony

noodles meant for two pax

The big baby needs to eat. He's still growing up after all. Lol. So what to do I sacrificed my share of the food lor............;p

look at the size of my bowl vs. his!

Other than stealing my food occasionally, he's been nothing but a great big sweetheart.

He's the only guy I know who takes leave on v-day just to cook, bake and send tulips to the girlfriend!! That was the awesome-est kickass surprise I ever had. Not to mention the sweetest.

Thankew dar!! Muackses!

*melts into a puddle of coconut rum*

FESTIVE BLUES

2008-02-10T10:23:00.000+08:00

Gong xi gong xi

Bring on the year of the rat!!

I fell sick on chinese new year eve and it dragged till the third day. Then on the second day I decided to pay the doc a visit, and what a bad mistake that was. Consultation was 60 bugs on top of the 12 for medication! Blardy leeches.

I know I'm not supposed to complain because reimbursement will come anyway, but I still feel a bit sore to be 72 bugs poorer for the next few days. So me being me I decided to deposit some notes into my bank account to make me feel a little richer after looking at the remaining balance (i know. siao de). And then the cash deposit machine had to retain my notes for no apparent reason!!

Well.... there was a reason.

But quoting "technical difficulties" ain't good enough ok!!

ARGGGh!

Ok, on to some happier things.

Amanda was successfully evangelised to become a mac user. Yay congrats congrats!! I believe she's enjoying herself with the gorgeous thing as we speak now.

At Yuki Yaki

Life's simplest indulgence

Ice cream shots!

"Creative" expression

Thankew for the wonderful dinner babe!! Next treat at Ah Yat's ok? Wahaha.

We had another spa trip couple of weeks back with the crazie woman and the boifie. Looking forward to another trip soon!!

Ah Kong on his favourite rocking chair

Ah Kong & his grandchildren

Shall end this entry with my latest obsession. It's way too expensive that's for sure. But the heart itches as my contract is already eligible for the 21-mth upgrade!! Arrgh..

SE w960i

3.2 Megapixels camera with 8GB memory. Woot!

MALIBU BITS

2008-01-30T23:27:00.000+08:00

-----Original Message-----
From: jarnjoelow@hsbc.com.sg [mailto:jarnjoelow@hsbc.com.sg]
Sent: Wednesday, January 30, 2008 2:42 PM
To: Jacyln Neo; Malibu Barbie; Tigress Su
Subject: Dat's impressive jacyln! im sure tigress can do that too!

Now the question is, since when was I known as the Malibu Barbie? The Malibu part is easy, but Barbie?!?!

Trust Mr Professional Glutton to come up with weird random names like this. Too bad this renaming can't be done over Outlook. Otherwise, the title of 'altar boy' will definitely be put to good use =)

Stop and stare
I think I'm moving but I go nowhere
Yeah I know that everyone gets scared
But I've become what I can't be

Stop and stare
You start to wonder why you're 'here' not there
And you'd give anything to get what's fair
But fair ain't what you really need
Can u see what I see

Cryptic song!! Me likey =)

Anyway here's a good tip for people suffering from constant frustration at work. Garnish your workspace with a cute little article, probably found in mini toons.

NAH!!

Really perks up an otherwise dull space, don't you agree??? ;p

MUAHAHA

LOST IN PERSPECTIVE

2008-01-22T22:47:00.000+08:00

Looking at a fresh perspective probably means changing your point of view. Shifting a little from the smelly comfort zone.

And they say change is the only thing constant in your life. But they forgot to add - resistance to change is another constant too.

Here's the situation in office.

Some of the "straight" ones have already "committed suicide", leaving behind their tiny legion of army. The list of survivors are.. crooks, swines and brilliant people. Our friendly crooks and swines love hiding in their cosy little corners to sharpen machetes day after day.

For whatever that's worthy.

Some other things I'm looking forward to.

..Spa trip with Fiza and boifie (this weekend!!)
..Penang trip with DVD and co. (shall take you to the ctrl tower!!)
..Buying Cinnamon Latte for dearest Dee (my aloe vera earl grey..)
..The very raw, very unplanned vacation after exams

All ready for CNY with new hairdo =)

IRAS DRAMA

2008-01-10T23:22:00.001+08:00

By the grace of our revenue house's inefficiency, I managed to meet up with one of my long-lost poly friends who is, conveniently for me, working as a tax officer.

Picture this. I have been chasing for my tax refund over and again for the past two months or so. Gotten some wrong info here and there. Repeated my story for about two million times. Waited, waited and waited. It was only today that I finally got to speak to the right person, whom for once provided me with a procedure that makes the most sense!

Thanks gal, for helping me sort out most part of the confusion.

Not a very smooth start to the year it seems.

Yet I'm on this weird train of happiness lately.

Perhaps I have achieved a new level of equanimity, and I am becoming more resolute and okay with myself (finally). All those soul-searching sessions probably helped, and now I find myself higher on maslow's hierarchy. Lol who am I kidding.

That said, 2008 is going to be one of the most significantly challenging year for me in all aspects. So.

Here's looking to great success..
ALL OUT!!

CHERISH

2008-01-02T23:15:00.000+08:00

At each turn of a new year, there will always be two very special events. A fresh start with a whole lot of excitement to look forward to, and the birthday of a really special person on the second day of the new year.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MOMMY!

For such a wonderful person, I think making a wish is out of the question. God will naturally grant her unlimited blessings, joy, great health and wonderful luck (esp in mahjong).

And so she went all the way to China (Harbin) to celebrate her birthday. What a life!

My travelling bug is itching again. I need to travel, but I'm not sure where to invest my dough. So maybe it's best to just stay put for the moment. Not like it's so bad to be stuck here. Quite a number of things going on lately.

SE fans gathering

Celebration after celebration

Christmas eve dinner

Cheerios & Reese at Jewel Box

Cheerios & Reese at AMK Hub's NTUC. lol

And then there was the new year's eve frenzy, rushing to grab last minute groceries for the BBQ.

busy busy

slurps

OOOH..I GOT A JACK OF SPADES HEHE

OHMMM...I CAN PREDICT MY CARD

POST XMAS

2007-12-28T01:01:00.000+08:00

Thanks to Gracie

And thanks to all the lovely thoughtful people

I finally got the watch! Thanks to dar. Thanks also to Jessie for the mini choc fondue set. Amazing coincidence - I almost got that for myself just a week ago. Thanks to Shirley (moi wonderful cousin) for the mango top and victoria's secret lip gloss. Thanks Jack and Cherry for the irresistably cute bear and monkey chain. Thanks to everyone else for being kind enough to drop a note or a sweet little gift on my office desk.

What would our lives be without thoughtful people, I wonder. Those who bother to either trouble themselves or lend an extra hand as a kind gesture, just to make somebody's day and to see the smile lighting up on their faces. Always a delight. Be it a small or a huge act, the thought that somebody truly and sincerely wants to do it for you - really moves. Nobody likes to be surrounded by people who can't be bothered most of the time.

So another year marks its end.

Tis the perfect season to count your blessings!

Well I have been doing so on an almost daily basis. Sometimes monthly, especially when the going gets tough, but that's not the point.

One of my greatest blessings, I have come to realise, is to have you people out there who are relentlessly helpful and sweet.

My most heartfelt gratitude and appreciation goes out to you. May you receive twice as much care and sweetness as what you have showered upon me.

Have a wonderful new year folks!

Life is a mirror. Our actions and thoughts will be reflected back to ourselves.

CHRISTMAS COLOURS

2007-12-23T12:03:00.000+08:00

cosy little entrance

warm and glowing

rainbow-like

peaceful night fairyland

AND.

who needs stupid trees when you have this?!?

HULA HOOPS

2007-12-20T04:21:00.001+08:00

The adorable furry trio are back with their high-pitched glory. Reminiscence! Soft spots!

I can distinctly recall this being one of my favourite childhood pastimes, other than smurfs and doraemon. At a time when I could hardly sit still to watch anything on the black box! These three are timeless icons that nothing out of our cool animation world today could ever replace . No, not even when those disney or pixar geniuses are creating mega adorable characters with their mega cool macs.

Not saying that this CGI adaptation is no good. It is a bit off from the actual cartoon, the ubiquitous chipmunk intro song is not included, but there's something about it that closely resembles the warm fuzzy feeling we once had from the cartoon.

Alvin and the chipmunks must have kept generations of kids entertained. So I know I'm not the only one smitten here. Go watch the movie if you haven't already, just to see Theodore's priceless expression when he pleaded to sleep with Dave after having a nightmare.

NEW JOB

2007-12-12T03:22:00.000+08:00

[10:43] deemia: anyway, your email add is hilarious
[10:44] deemia: for goodness' sake pls make friends with your colleagues from the IT dept

[10:52] irisly: email was set up 19th last mth
[10:52] irisly: tell me how to make friends with them
[10:52] irisly: but yah i think IT ppl hates my name or smth
[10:52] irisly: they jst cant help but brutalize it in the emails

[10:53] deemia: tell them ur bestie cant tolerate bad english. lol. change to IMLee
[10:54] deemia: not IRlee
[10:54] deemia: or IisLee
[10:54] deemia: lol.

[10:56] irisly: IT ppl arent creative like that
[10:56] irisly: sigh

[10:57] deemia: I hope i dont hv a wtf@futurecompany.com

[10:58] irisly: u never know
[10:58] irisly: wahahah

BIRTHDAY INDULGENCE

2007-12-09T08:47:00.000+08:00

The short getaway had to be cancelled.

So on the actual day we spoilt ourselves silly for one last time this year.

The meal was in place for his actual 28th and also as an advance christmas celebration. I was hesitant at first for a good load of reasons, but all that became a myth after we had our first bite.

blue swimmer crab salad with avocado and sicilian citrus sauce

This one's already a winner, with its sweet crab meat and avocado sauce. There's something about the whole combination that sends a tingle down the spine and titillate every senses in your body. Truly a wonderful little thing there.

pasta with foie gras, pears and marsala wine

I love it whenever they do dishes with fruits, or infuse them with fruity flavours. I gobbled up my chunks of pear and in the process completely forgotten about the foie gras!!! The pasta was quite mediocre, but in all fairness I have always been a spaghetti or macaroni only kinda girl. And this one's some taglioni thing.

And then came the main course. It didn't send anyone up to heaven and back, but it was good enough. The meat was tender and succulent, and the sauce complements it well.

roast turkey stuffed with pancetta and truffle, apple and chestnut puree

traditional italian festive pudding

This one baffles me though. Why the heck did they call it a pudding when it tastes like a combi of cake and mudpie?? That aside, this dessert is, one of the finest I have had in a very long time. That coming from a not-very-dessert-person like me.

From starters all the way to desserts, everything was infused with something fruity. How very thoughtful of them - to help us end the year on a sweet note. To remind us of our blessings and what a sweet wonderful year it has been. And also to celebrate the birthday of a sweet person.

happy people

TWO BIRTHDAYS & A TRIP

2007-12-02T23:42:00.000+08:00

It's been a happening month!! With us spending quite a fair bit of time and money for each other's celebration. As xmas and new year draws closer, there's no other time in the year we feel more festive or celebratory.

So yes, timing is oh so perfect for the iras people to withhold my november paycheck. Thank you sweethearts. If you release my pay soon enough then I will have some money to get some more xmas gifts. And pay for my november bills dammit you pieces of shit! Ok another time on that one this is supposed to be a happy post.

mah lovely ladies

the greedy heineken man

outside timbre

Both occasions, though strenuous on the wallets, were definitely worth it. Live band at Timbre was so-so, but before they started to sing, the place was spinning some reallyyy goooood classic tracks from Guns N Roses, Skidrow, and the likes.

klia's pan pacific. d's attempt at a kawaii pose

Thanks to D we got free tickets to watch A1 GP at Sepang two weeks back. For the clueless people who should have had more guidance (like us)

this is the way you watch a live race ok

not like this!

or this....

The thunderous roar of the engines and the excitement that ensued was worth every bit of money spent to travel down, worth every bit of the ear-drums damage and the diarrhoea caused by the RM12 NASI LEMAK.

yeay we're going to squeeze with sweaty smelly people later!

Says the Sepang Circuit developer : Screw the proper car lots! we already spent so much on the blardy circuit! Let them park wherever they want since we have ssoooooo many lands!! Easier for them also, just anyhow insert your car at some free spot and quickly go watch the race.

PIC OF THE DAY

2007-11-28T16:10:00.000+08:00

Me - reduced to a cucumber

This may just be the perfect picture to explain my dearest Kevin's cor-knee-ness! Original picture without the word "angry iris".

Thanks Dee, I like the font.

(-_-)"

SNAFU

2007-11-21T12:29:00.000+08:00

Pictures speak a thousand words? Maybe not anymore.

With the technology of cameras and lenses evolving every now and then, coupled with the endless possibilities of manipulations using photoshop, it's no longer an easy task to distinguish real from fake.

From a creative standpoint, that is good news. But when you talk legal or disputes, then it gets a lil more complicated. All this fully depicted in the latest court hearing involving pedra branca's case that has been going on for the longest time.

It's always so interesting to read about the countless tussles and disputes between Sillypore and Malaysia. What I have come to notice over the years is, more often that not, both parties have equally strong cases. Not this time though. Whatever chances there are for them (considering that the island is nearer to Johor after all), have been destroyed with the display of amateurish error.

Full article here:

http://www.jeffooi.com/2007/11/malaysia_uses_plagiarists_blog.php#more

I have decided to turn to Malaysian politics for my daily dosage of comedy. First there was the Information Minister bursting at the Al Jazeera news interview, then came this!! Those ministers sure have developed a knack for making a fool out of themselves in the international scene.

Malaysia boleh!!!

BREATHING THERAPY

2007-11-20T23:40:00.000+08:00

Breathing through your right or left nose, apparently, has a different effect on our general well-being.

Excerpt from an interesting article,

When having headache, try to close your right nose and use left nose to do your breathing, about 5 mins and headache will be gone.

If you feel tired, do it the opposite round, close your left nose and breathe through your right nose. After a while, you will feel your mind is fresh again.

Right side belongs to the heat element, so it gets hot easily.
Left side belongs to the cold.

Most girls breathe with their left nose, so their heart gets cold easily.

Most guys breathe with their right nose, so they get angry easily.

Take note of this - the moment you wake up, which side breathes faster? Left or right?

If left is faster, you will feel tired. So, close your left nose and use your right nose for breathing, you will get refreshed quickly.

I guess that solves the mystery of my constant lethargy these days. When I try breathing using my right side, it's blocked! But the flow of breathing through the left is so smooth that I know it's become a habit of me to breathe only through the left side.

MONSTER 'C'

2007-11-15T19:43:00.000+08:00

I nearly died before lunch time today.
I was clinging on to dear life, hoping that the pain will just go away.
I thought I was already having one of the worst days in my life, and things could not possibly be any more rotten than it already was.

All wrong!! The moment I caught a whiff of somebody's dabao-ed lunch, I immediately felt nauseous and had to return to my favourite hang out of the day - the loo.

And I have myself to thank for conveniently forgetting to stock up on essential life-savers in the office. (Eg. Panadols. Hong Ew. etc etc) I thought I could just hang in for a while more, since it was close to noon time and there are still items I needed to work on.

BAD BAD MISTAKE.

The more I tried to endure, the worse the pain became.
It's like this monster that doubles its whammy on if you ever dare fight back.
Fight some more and the pain will be exponentially increased!!!! Mua ha ha.

[SOBS] Poor Reesey...

By noon I met kevil and grouchily made my way to 7 eleven.
Each step sent a stab to my poor tummy area, sending immediate chills down my spine.

Somehow I ended up bursting my pipes in some other toilets (oops. was that too much of a detail?) and had to get dear kevil to purchase med.

Ok lah conclusion is..

I will stock up essential life-savers in my new office.
First day at the new office, I will bring!!

EMBRACE THE ELEVENS

2007-11-13T10:54:00.000+08:00

Turned another year older, with much glee!

I am blessed with wonderful people around me.
Big THANK YOU to all!!
Especially Dee, such a dear to come all the way.

*hugs*

Another reason for all the smiles.
Found joy in bubble gum rock all over again =)

This is positively one of the best mainstream songs I have heard in a while. Eh wait. This IS the best. Not just 'one of the best'.

It is so sinfully bubble gum and yet it is so hard not to fall in love with the tunes. Helps that I can relate to it too. Heh.

Cause this is real, and this is good.
It warms the inside just like it should,
but most of all it's built to last.

-- Built to Last by Melee.

KAY-EL, KAY-EL

2007-11-07T19:50:00.001+08:00

Someone once told me that KL is on top of the list when it comes to cities you should never live in, or should never visit for more than once. While I couldn't say that I totally agree, that doesn't mean I am denying this fact.

Prices are exorbitant, but in most cases you get an almost third world country experience. It's a sad fact that people have to stomach. Me, I was strapped within a budget of S$100, but I nearly died while looking for a decent hotel with an okay location. Just imagine - that's RM230 and no decent hotel?

COME ON KAY-EL, YOU GOTTA BE KIDDING ME.

Perhaps the most interesting part about the trip is how we got so hopelessly lost.

How we circled around the area, knowing full well which direction we were supposed to head to, but just couldn't get a bloody connecting link to the damned place! The "so-near-yet-so-far" kind of feeling that constantly jabs and pokes at your nerves.

The roads are, to say the least, a disastrous network consisting of ridiculous road markings and signages that lead you to nowhere. In other words - what roads in hell might look like. Let's not even talk about the infamous traffic okay. I know that was not the first time I got stuck in the KL road madness, but the first time did not quite prepare me for this ordeal. After all, my very first road trip to KL was with a fellow Malaysian who was quite familiar with the place.

HAPPILY-FED (GOT GHOST BEHIND!!!)

I WORSHIP LO SHEE FAN

SHISHA TIME!

LOST

BUT!!!

Since we were all optimist freaks anyway, the trip was not a complete disaster. We managed to have fun and happily ended our day with a sumptuous seafood dinner.

**

ALL COVERED UP

In the name of preserving national harmony, it was of utmost importance that we covered the un-halal things shown in the above pic. LOL.

Ok lah we lied. We were more concerned about the safety of the car.

NOT HAPPY AT ALL

2007-10-31T23:42:00.000+08:00

What effing ridiculous thing I do to satisfy my spontaneity urges.

How much more money am I going to burn man.

When did it even start to happen? Ok sequence of events.

I have always wanted to convert the license. But I realised that it would have to be done at the expense of driving in Malaysia......legally (ahem)

So yeah JPJ will recall the license and your Malaysian license will be "lupus" (!!) Immediately turn off right? That had delayed the whole conversion idea for a while. Until recently when I decided to just take the basic theory test first. And one thing led to another.

The tedious process of documentation follows after. First thing I did was to make my way to JPJ Johor to apply for the conversion letter. Then when I was there the kind counter lady asked "IC dan lesen?" as per normal.

And I offered her my Singaporean ID and the Malaysian license.
I know!! Very bimbo.

About 3 seconds later my jaw almost dropped. I realised much too late that I. HAVE. LEFT. MALAYSIAN. ID.

AT HOME :(

Of all things to leave out.

So with all the things going on, the thought of spending thousands to get sillypore's license never even came close.

But. Found out ONLY TODAY (much too late again) about an irritating clause that cancels my eligibility to apply for conversion T_T

And then me being me thought, since I was already at SSDC, might as well right?? (oops. must credit Jo for the usage of might as well cos she recently copyrighted it ;p) And SO.

$!%$#@%^#&

I raise the white flag. And I rest my case.

Maybe by then I might stop driving like I own the road. And accelerate at every amber light.

Or maybe I should just go learn how to tie my shoe laces.

SLUMS

2007-10-25T11:49:00.000+08:00

I forgot when was the last time I really sat down and wrote something.

I am writing! Ok yeah, so what you say. Nobody really cares. Even dar doesn't give a rat's ass about reading my entries. Which I don't mind actually. Really. I'm just happy to be taking a bit of time off to piece up the loose thoughts, and to remember how things have been for me at this point of time in life.

Photo-posting, random thoughts, really short comments.

Too often I have been giving these things as a sorry excuse for an entry.

So anyway.
No news is good news. That pretty much sums up the week so far.

If nothing goes terribly wrong this Friday then I can be expecting a much-welcomed departure from my current industry.

It's not that I'm about to rattle on about work, life, etc. I feel delirious just to be well and healthy. Things are not at all that bad. And I'm saying "not at all that bad" not because I'm a pessimistic loser who doesn't know how to count my lucky stars even when every single damn thing in my life is going on smoothly.

No. Not at all. There are still plenty of screw-ups that I have yet to fix. Lots of negativity thrown at me. Undeserving miserable toads testing my patience. Driving me up the wall. Good for nothing asswipes whose sole purpose on earth is to be the bane of mankind. And I think I'm getting carried away. Point is, my life is not going on as smoothly as I wished it could be. But I still am thankful to be alive and kicking.

Truth is, most of the times, more than anything else, I feel fortunate to be blessed by lady luck. Or God, for that matter, but that's besides the point.

I need to start exercising my vocab. I notice how I have been stuck with loss of words midway through a sentence, and end up feeling frustrated or using the next best substitute which, in most cases, does no justice to that something or someone I am referring to.

Maybe I should just die. For doing this during work. Heh.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

2007-10-22T14:53:00.000+08:00

Ta-Dah! Ugly long hair magically snipped off

Been tired of the dullish strands clinging on pathetically to my poor scalp for quite some time now. I have silently promised to myself that abstinence from dyeing/rebonding/chemically damaging hair for at least a year or so MUST be fulfilled. So I guess highlights are fine (sniggers). Then again I need a base color because the dullish strands have become too black. Yes there is such a thing as too black, unfortunately.

Bottomline is, a dye job is necessary to complement the new style.

End results, without any nice colors :(

Stylist thinks I'm a mushroom

At least quite cute lah.

And so the new cute reesey (yaya..gag all you want) went on to do some other cute stuff.

Like pinki-fying the car.

NICE!

Not very me (esp the hot pink heart). But ok lah the look on dar's face was priceless :D

...

Today is what would have been my grandma's 84th birthday..

TO ETERNITY

2007-10-15T20:22:00.000+08:00

What a week it has been.

The call received during lunch time last Thursday turned out to be most shocking. Before I knew it I was making my way to the hospital in a frantic rush. Less than half an hour later the doctor informed us of the tragedy.

What followed after were days of grievances, condolences and prayers.

All of us seek solace in the fact that our dearest iron-willed lady is leaving for a better place. She had had more than enough trials and tribulations during her lifetime and it is only right that she gets to finally rest in peace.

Free from suffering, sickness and pain.

UNWIND

2007-10-09T00:40:00.001+08:00

peace and tranquility for a weekend

our neighbouring family villa

So I went for the well-deserved spa trip.

Knowing that it is such a cheap steal, none of us had too much of an expectation. But we were in for a pleasant surprise. Where else to find this kind of bargain? The two days-one night trip comes with a night's stay at the family villa (inclusive of breakfast), city tour on the second day, seafood lunch, and of course, a glorious 1.5 hour spa - with ocean view. All for only SGD103.

Sweet bliss.

all spa should have ocean view!

the other side of spa

Nothing like some good kneading on those stiff muscles coupled with bubbly jacuzzi soak to compensate for all the rat-racing. When things in life becomes a bit too hard to bear, this is one of the ways to retain one's sanity. Am already in the initial stage of planning for another trip next March (cross finger!). If all else fail, I'll just gorge myself silly with good food.

we thrive on acting cute

and so do the uncles

BLESSED

2007-09-22T04:12:00.000+08:00

sweet!

I must have done or said something right to deserve this.
Having the treasury head throw a compliment and a personal recommendation means a great deal to me.

Sure it is still too early to tell. But so far everything seems sweet.

Won't take too long for the pimple plantation to invade my face. Damn I am too much of a skeptic to hope for much.

Best thing is, the people are normal (FINALLY) (if you know what i mean) ;p

Then again if I could deal with up-your-ass kind of mr. smartie pants in the past then why not now.

Going for my well-deserved spa trip in a while. Ta!

MALIBU SOUL

2007-09-14T13:54:00.000+08:00

Happiness!

As much as I have enjoyed my penniless tai tai lifestyle for the last 5 weeks, all good things must come to an end. And end it did, in a glorious manner.

Dar's last day in his co - today.
Work starts for me - Monday.

Twisted fate.

And so the roles shall be reversed! I am going to be the sole breadwinner muhahaha.
FOR NOW.

Two things to look forward to.

Spa excursion next weekend, and the release of the SE - K850i, due Q4 2007 - which means anytime soon!

So chio that it immediately puts the Iphone to shame. IMO.

In the mean time I can only drool and ogle at Dar's new phone.
Hint hint?

THE WAITING GAME

2007-09-01T02:11:00.000+08:00

Rawa?

Bangkok?

Penang =)

In no particular order of course.
A short getaway is necessary before new job commences.
I seem to be more busy these days, in spite of being jobless. The irony.
Perhaps I am still trying to adapt to a different lifestyle. Different from the one I was so used to in the past. Which means plenty of hard work, time and effort. What does it even mean to be someone's girlfriend?

So far it means an increase in text messaging charges, a regular receptacle for tales of my daily resentments, an assured date on Saturday night, and a reason to lay in bed on Saturday until noon.

But beyond all that, what does it take to stay together in a lasting relationship?

Baby sometimes love just ain't enough..

Can't imagine the hectic-ness once a job and school kicks in full force.

BLUESKY!

Not so bluesky

Both pictures above are taken at the same time, and same place (Gurney Drive), but very different effects eh. Another one of those random shots that ends up being a personal fave =)

Dar digs the old skoolness!

Loves the food too!

On the way

Dar's random

As usual we froze our asses off in the coach for NINE freaking hours. No amount of cosying or cuddling could match the powerful cold air seeping out through the ventilation. And then in the morning we were greeted with rain (as if not cold enough!!) and a bloody jam on the bridge. Wonderful.

But after that it was bluesky all the way for us!
A true fluffy-white-clouds-and-blue-skies holiday is perfect with dar =)

Yikes. Sappy sappy.

Kthxbai.

Perfectly wasted on the way back

It is only when we no longer compulsively need someone that we can have a real relationship with them - Anthony Storr

RATATOUILLE

2007-08-16T11:33:00.000+08:00

Cousin has invited me along to her company's convention in Paris mid next year. Must start saving already! I mean, must start to save once I get a new job. Heh.

Yes yes. I'm officially outta the world's local bank.
Jumped straight into the tee square bandwagon.
FOR NOW.

the indian bride aka tee square

Anyway, last week's fireworks display was loads of fun!
We got ourselves an excellent spot at Raffles Quay after much hassle.
Celebration by the bay never looked so good.

And in the spirit of ndp, we wore red (maroon considered red too!) and white =)

Don't we look like the national flag??
Give us some stars, a crescent, and we're done!

By the way, I'm going home tonight!!
Rejoice for decent food in the next 3 days!!!
It's going to be a blissful homecoming.

Unlike the past 200 times. When mixed feelings is all I got.

THE FLAME

2007-08-04T14:01:00.000+08:00

Like the tide receding, the shoreline washed clean, with him gone I was left in a distorted, empty world.

A gloomy, cold world in which what he and I had would never ever take place again.

We each have a special something we can get only at a special time of our life. Like a small flame. A careful, fortunate few cherish that flame, nurture it, hold it as a torch to light their way. But once that flame goes out, it's gone for ever.

What I'd lost was not just him. I'd lost the precious flame.

After bidding goodbye, I look at him for one last time before boarding the ship.
As the ship edges backwards out of the harbour, the scene gets smaller and smaller.

First a vague dot, then swallowed up whole in the shimmering air.
The town grows distant and the shape of the mountains indistinct.
And finally the island vanishes altogether.

And then all the things I left behind there seems never to have existed at all.

**

I was reaching my destination when I saw him appear in the distance.

As I looked at him from the deck,
a feeling came over me like a thousand strings were tugging at me.
I realised then, that he'd grabbed hold of my heart with a rare intensity.
Perhaps not full-blown romantic love, but something very close.

HMM

2007-07-29T05:19:00.000+08:00

I just read something really interesting.

Am I thinking too much?
Or am I reading too much in between those lines?

Maybe I should talk to her.

Or maybe not.

It is a delicate situation after all.

THIS WILL BE

2007-07-25T03:22:00.000+08:00

The shortest post here.

I am an exhausted but happy girl =)