Prolific Weekend (after all)

Did I say it's going to be a quiet weekend?
Did I say I will do some spring cleaning?

ah-ah.
*GRIN*



Saturday evening chill - Waterfront @ Desapark City with sis, bro, s.i.l and lil Danial

Lil Danial posing in front of the christmas deco.

Photos below are taken by him. Not bad eh?

Sunday - Mid Valley shopping spree

More gifts achievement!

New Status:

Jojo's b-day (due Nov 29th) - done!
Baby Leon's b-day (due Dec 7th) - done!
Nephew Danial's x'mas - done!
Jojo's x'mas - done!
MK and family x'mas - no have
SY and family x'mas - done!
AST x'mas - no have
Cousin's kids x'mas - no have

And..ta..daa...MINE!!

Check this out...I so love this bag!

Today..

Introducing CHOC! my labrador puppy on Facebook :D Do help me to feed / play him when you drop by :) It's under the Pokey! application.

Today..that's the title of this post. May not be of any relevance...just that..I think Today is such a Gift that I would like to dedicate a post to it. I have nothing in particular to talk about today...but since it's Friday and the weather is beautiful (it has been raining for 2 nights in a row)....I just have to log down something for the sake of it. Am sleepy again although I went to bed at 11 last night and I'm drinking "susu lembu brew coffee" . Thought it's a relatively better coffee option since it's fresh cow's milk - more expensive ler - $2.80!!! Been getting a teeny weeny bit worried over my steady weight loss in last couple of months. Yesterday I noticed I could see my rib cage bones!..Don't remember ever seeing that part of my organ in my entire life. Not sai meng here..just a little worried. But then..since I still have good apetite..should be alrite kua??

Oh ya..I completed the 10 stamps at the gym and got my $40 Triumph voucher. Guess what. Marketing gimmick lar! It comes in Two $20 vouchers and only One voucher is allowed per transaction! Cheh! $20 off a $149.90 sports bra -- tsk tsk tsk. Aii..waste my 7 classes a week effort. No wonder my 'pai kuat' all showing. So..if you need $20 vouchers...come to me - vouchers expire end Dec this year. I will still collect those stamps since I am at the classes quite regularly anyway. May be I can give away as Christmas presents *GRIN*

This morning, while dressing for work..I heard sounds of a band playing some songs. Must be the band preparing for the funeral of my sis' neighbour. Their house is just a stone throw away from my place although they are a different garden (slightly more affluent so to speak).


What else for TODAY. Oh wel..while M'sia is arguing about yoga fatwa..etc etc...alot of other major issues happening elsewhere. Mumbai attacks, Havoc in BKK, financial crisis seems to be getting worse...Sigh...life..

One more thing..I am enjoying driving in the "new wheels"...no new car....new tyres only :D

Okie dokie..will get back to work. I shall try to be productive Today...so that I can leave on the dot..chilling out again tonite :)


oh oh...one last thing..I am deep shit this time. I can't locate the confirmation email for the mama mia musical. I swear I received and read the mail some time some where but I can't find it in all my mailbox. None in hotmail nor gmail..nor my work mail. Ooops.


P/S:
This weekend will be a quiet one. Planning to go for the annual medical checkup for myself and dad tomorrow. Hope to clean up the new house abit too since I finally have the lights & fans done up.

PPS:
Actually not feeling very well by now. Occassionally will get this...body stiffness and aches..it wil go away I hope...some beer tonite will help :)

Ciao!

World Meatless Day (25 November)

25 November was declared The World Meatless Day. According to http://www.meatlessday.com/ :


In 1986, it was proposed that November 25, Sadhu Vaswani's Birthday be celebrated as an International Meatless Day. The campaign has met with considerable success in that, lakhs of individuals send their pledges to the Mission to go meatless on this day. Four state governments in India - Maharashtra, Gujarat, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh - have issued instructions for the closure of slaughter-houses as well as butchers' shops on 25th November every year, in their respective states.
In order to create an awareness in the minds of citizens about the Meatless Day campaign, peace marches are held in Pune and other cities in November, every year. Thousands of students from city schools and colleges march through the streets propagating the idea of Meatless Day and reverence for all life, as the first step to World Peace. Meatless Newsletters are also issued between August and November every year to propagate vegetarianism and the Meatless Day.

I read this - 7,500 Malaysians to go meatless for a day on the newspaper the other day and totally forgot about it! Some interesting facts from the article:

Last year, 7,637 Malaysians joined over 89.2 million people worldwide in observing International Meatless Day, started by the Sadhu Vaswani Mission in India, named after its founder who advocated non-violence.

“In fact, by going meatless one day a week, each person could save 170kg in carbon dioxide emissions in a year"

Missed the date wor.
Can replace tomorrow? Today I already ate fish and chicken :)

Thanksgiving

What a coincidence. Today is actually Thanksgiving Day and I happened to write a somewhat relevant post yesterday so much related to the subject matter without even realising it!

Wikipedia says..Thanksgiving, also known as Thanksgiving Day, is a harvest festival. Traditionally, it is a time to give thanks for the harvest and express gratitude in general. It is primarily a North American holiday which has generally become a national secular holiday with religious origins....

..Today, Thanksgiving is celebrated on the second Monday of October in Canada and on the fourth Thursday of November in the United States. Thanksgiving dinner is held on this day, usually as a gathering of family members.

Check out Danielle Steeel's post - here - somewhat deep but good insights about the subject matter form a personal perspective.

Happy Thanksgiving :)

Now..it's ok to yoga (as long as you don't chant)

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi said Muslims who performed yoga without chanting any mantra can carry on with their activity as it was good for their health.
He urged all quarters to understand the content of the yoga fatwa issued by the National Fatwa Council and not twist facts and cause confusion among the public...READ MORE @ THE STAR

Reference for previous report - here. Since Saturday, there has been numerous reactions to Saturday's annoucement.

Ermm..don't think there is any need to say much here. It is self explanatory. Moral of the story is Think Hard Before Saying Anything. Think A Few Steps Ahead & Consider Further Consequences Before Acting.

When I first joined the S company...we had this fearful MD (Mr RP). When we need to speak to him about issues..we'd always make sure we have all our facts justified and ready at our finger tips for his QUESTIONS! No such thing as reporting a problem without proper solution. No such thing as giving unclear half past six updates. That's how all responsible Executives should behave!

Btw, Mr PM...there wasn't any need to twist facts and cause confusion because the first annoucement made on Saturday wasn't clear in the first place.

Tyres Tyres

Aii...choices choices...am blogging from the Tyrezone. Was scratching my head deciding which brand of tyres to change to? How many tyres to replace? Technically..all four tyres are worn out. If I were to replace all four with what I have been using - Michelin - it will cost me $940! Bloody expensive! I can buy loads of good stuff with $940...can even go travelling ler!

The next best alternative will be Bridgestone/Goodyear..but it is only about $15 cheaper per tyre. Dunlop will be more economical ($100+ each only) ..but..I may not be able to get use to it. The other consideration factor will be..if I were to change car..I shouldn't need such good tyre after all.

For the records..the last time I changed tyres was beginning of 2007, roughly. Life span slightly lesss than 2 years. About right?

Ai yai yai..while I was counting my miserable ringgit...a friend of mind..was deciding on a USD1.8K trip! What a contrast. Duh...

Anyway..my decision..was to replace the two front tyres for the time being...with Michelin. Sigh..

15 years left?

Yet another unexpected death. One of my sis' friendly neighbour had a heart attack and passed away unexpectedly yesterday. He was barely 50. I have not met him though..but was told he was a very very nice man.

Barely 50 and time is up. I can't help but wonder...if I were to have the same fate..I only have less than 15 years left to live this life. What have I done and What have I not done??

PAUSED.

BLANK.

Ermmm....

• I've been a good kid...I think
• I did my degree at the very least
• I have a job..and have been earning a steady income for the past 12 years
• I have been a good daughter..I'd like to think so
• I have been a good person..I'd like to think so too
• I have been a good sister..uh huh?
• I have an adorable but naughty little nephew
• I am going to have a niece!
• I have been a good employee...*blink* despite the fact that I am bloggin now at 10.28am
• I have a house altho..technically it belongs to the bank
• I drive a car...something I didn't think I wud be able to do when I was 17
• I have great friends
• I have a blog and I am loving it
• I have a dog and a cat
• I survived TM
• I am re-discovering fitness
• I still love BC at the gym
• I am learning tai ci..do I love it?..I still can't tell..
• I am re-discovering my love for badminton (my childhood hobby)
• I live to eat..although this contradicts big time with the other love
• Oh ya..did lasik :)
  

That's all??!!!

Boo hooo...

• I don't really know how to swim
• I can't even cycle properly
• I have not dived
• I have not bungee jump
• I have not been up Mount KK altho it's so nearby
• I have been single all this while and still am!!
• I have not given birth
• I have not experienced motherhood
• I have not backpacked
• I have not work/live overseas

I am glad though that ....I was in Beijing (last year around this time)..

I was at the Great Wall of China...would love to spend more time up there though...

I am also glad I was at Nepal (Y2003).....we didn't even have digital cameras then..photos were all in print copy. I 'stole' this from the net - The Annapurna Peaks...a familiar scene which we woke up to everyday while we were in Nepal.

Just read on Wiki that the Annapurna Peaks are among the world's most dangerous mountains to climb, with a fatality rate of 40%!

http://travel.sulekha.com/china/kailash-mansarovar/photos/slideshow/19928/pageno-1.htm

So...what's left to do in life?

Stay healthy people. Stay fit. Appreciate, be grateful to what you have right now.

Your life. Your job. Your parents. Your siblings. Your hubby. Your wife. Yourself. Your house. Your bed. Your car. Your food. Your drink. Your colleagues. Your friends.

Smile to yourself now and say Thank You.

Spend more time with your loved ones.

Give your best to what you are doing and will be doing...

but then...remember that we ain't perfect after all...learn to give ourselves a break some times.

Ensure that if we don't leave life with regrets.

And I shall get back to work too :)

P/S:

Yawn..having 2nd cup of coffee. Sleepy lar. Was up early to go to the gym..didn't get to go last night. I was surprise to see so many serious gym go-ers working out so early in the morning..it wasn't even 7! Aii...sleepy betul now.

The tyres of my car are very worn out. Too dangerous to be on the road. Will get them replaced later today. Big hole to the wallet again ..sigh..

Back..

In case you are wondering..I haven't killed myselft yet :p Was out for some meeting that extended to lunch. Aii..I awlays think meetings are waste of time. Three quarter day gone. Ywan....
Still have not re-done the stuff that I single-handedly Erased yesterday. Hoepfully can have it done before I go off. Gotta go off earlier today to have dinner at cousin's place then go together to the wake at Loke Yew.

Boy...look att all the dyslexia typos!

Total Idiot

Boy..never felt so much like an IDIOT before!

I just deleted my whole morning's work!

Arrgh!

S I L L Y

PIC SOURCE: http://www.alanmccabe.co.uk/pics/gun_to_head.jpg

snoozeeee

Sleepy wor. Nothing to update actually..but I am so groggy right now..I have to do something to distract myself. So...rambling begins...

• Been having problems getting into the server to get some work files for past 30 mins or so...guess what I have not log on the server in the first place *smack*
• I wished Happy Belated Birthday to AST..when her birthday is TODAY *smack smack*
• I ran out of tissue paper so..I am claening my coffee stained lips with my tongue

On a separate note...my nephew Danial said this to me last night at the weding dinner:

• D: koo koo..why yesterday you not beautiful?
• Me : huh? what do you mean? what about today?
• D : today u beautiful but yesterday not beautiful

...HA HA....

Congratulations it is...

Tired! Not sure what to write here. I guess the pictures are sufficient to say that the wedding went well despite the circumstances. Will probably be at the wake on Tuesday night to pay our respect.

Condolences or Congratulations?

It's such irony that I will have a new cousin in law (officially) tomorrow and most likely will be attending his father's funeral the following day. So..what do I say to him tomorrow? Congatulations but my deepest Condolences too?

Dating a 3 yr old?

Two more things to jot down. Was deciding whether I should say all in one post..but nahh....this deserves a post by itself. Gosh..I will be late for dinner...but I'm stil blogging away. Don't care...still angry with the old man..not ready to be nice to him yet. Think he is not ready too.

I went for a walk at the Kiara Park this morning ML and lil Ryan. It was more of a stroll actually. Did I mention that Ryan is a valentino at only 3 years old? He is only nice to pretty girls. When he was younger he didn't even pay attention to me cos I don't have long hair *rolling my eyes* Some months back..when his mom told him that they will be meeting Aunty SL at Ikea..he asked if Aunty SL is pretty? After the outing...his 'feedback' was.."Aunty SL is pretty" Phew!

This morning...I think..I had a lilttle bit of pressure...on what I should wear to meet this little guy. I think I did la...can't remember..was in kind of a rush..and half asleep. Anyway...I wore a track bottom, a T-shirt, a cap and my sneakers of course. I had to wear a cap because my hair was messy and I didn't wanna waste unecessary time and wax shaping it up.

ML sent me this sms in the afternoon:
Ryan's feedback for today - "auntie SL not pretty today bcos she didn't wear a dress" nx time u hv to wear a pink dress, sure he pass u then.


**ROLLING MY EYES**

Yoga is Haram!

Suddenly so many things in my mind. A few things I wanna pour out here. Some happy some not so happy stuff. Been "busy" on cyberworld since an hour ago. Lost my cool (again) towards dad just now ... I know I shouldn't but ....

Anyway..first let me note down this latest piece national news update (as usual..news in M'sia can be quite mind boggling:

The Star Online (6.09pm):
Fatwa Council says yoga with worshipping, chanting is prohibited..

The 1st paragraph says:
The National Fatwa council has declared that the yoga practice which involves three elements of physical movements, worshipping and chanting as haram (prohibited) in Islam
My Q: So....yoga is allowed if not all 3 elements is practiced?



And following paragraph says:
Its chairman Datuk Dr Abdul Shukor Husin said although merely doing the physical movements of yoga minus the worshipping and chanting might not be wrong in the eyes of the religion, it should be avoided as “doing one would lead to another”.

He said yoga has been practised by the Hindu community for thousands of years and incorporates physical and religious elements and chants and worshipping, with the aim at “being one with God”.

“Because of this, we believe that it is inappropriate for Muslims to do yoga and the council has declared that practising yoga when it comes all together with the three elements as haram.

My Q: Err...so......yoga is still allowed if either one element is practiced?

Still confused...I read on:
“We discourage Muslims to do yoga as a form of exercise because it will ultimately lead to religious worshipping and chanting which is against Islam.

“In Islam, one must not do things which can erode one’s aqidah or faith. Doing yoga, even just the physical movements is a step towards an erosion of one’s faith in the religion, hence Muslims should avoid it,” he told a press conference.
My Q: Ah..so ne. So can practice or not?


Read more - HERE
Marina Mahathir's views - HERE

Well, this is of no relevance ot me lar..as I have not been doing yoga for quite some time and I am not a Muslim nor do I operate a yoga centre. But I just find the declaration so confusing...do you?

Bluetooth Headset

Motorola H390 Bluetooth Headset



I just got one of this from my sister. It's my first! Ha ha...yes..bluetooth handsfree had been around for ages..and this is only my first for many reasons. Main reason being..ever since the only Nokia that I had ever bought (I think it is a 1110 - few years back) 'left' with the stupid snatch thief...I've been using pretty decent Motorola phones passed down by my sis. She always gets to try the latest models...for reasons that may not be appropriate for me to discuss about there. As for me..if I happen to lose a phone..or break a phone intentionally or unintentionally ..I get to pick from her pool of used phones..which are normally still in very good condition. These phones doesn't come with handsfree set..so I'd normally end up buying one. I think I hv bought 2 brand new original sets in the recent years. But..when I change phones..the headsets become redundant --any takers? The current L6 that I am using has speaker function..so I decided not to spend on any headsets.

Secondly, I didn't really like sticking those bluetooth sets into my ear. Very bulky..looks kind of cacat with it in the ear...and I can't help but imagine all those radiation wave travelling into my ear hole to my already not very functional brain. Ha ha...insane me ..i know.



Anyway...I have one now that I have barely used. I also didn't like the fact that it is designed for the right ear only..while I am more comfortable using my left ear for phone conversations. My sis thought I was being obnoxious...she asked if my right ear is Deaf! ha ha...





It's just too convenient to use the speaker phone. Tried using it just now. Conclusion....well, I honestly think..it is more hazardous driving..when I had drive and at the same time struggle to...hook this funny thing onto my ear loop...switch on the bluetooth...switch on the phone's bluetooth...connect the two bluetooth...aiii..by the time all that done..dunno how many close accidents :D

Lights Up

Ok la..my mysterious task today is to get someone to put up the lights (& fans) in the new house :) Couldn't finish everything though..will continue tomorrow.

My favourite - dining lights.

Cheap cheap Ikea lights by the staircase and the practical 3-blade KDK fan

And...these prove how long I have abandoned the house!

So tired la...although I'm not the one doing the main labourous work. My tasks were basically running (driving) around transferring the fans and lights to from one house to the other house. Making trips to the light shop to get additional bulbs and other related items. I'm beat!

Oh ya..i also managed to finalised the kitchen cabinet details with the contractor. The ball's on my end now to issue the 1st 40% payment and work will roll. Gotta find money!



In between..went to the bank too to collect this mega sized check book. Look at the SIZE and the ugly cover. The bank told me that they have a new designed sized check book for collection..I was expecting a contemporary looking book. Look at what I have to carry with me for life - yieee..so un-cool.

P/S: Aunt called. Cousin's father in-law passed away in the afternoon. Relatives of the groom decided to carry on with the wedding function. Funeral will be after. Sigh.

My Fair Lady

This is what one of my tai ci mates has been calling me - yiiiik! I'd never like being fair hence I'd always prefer being in the outdoor....so that I can get tanned, beach or no beach I need the sun. Recently, I get quite frequent comments that I am becoming FAIRER. My friend MK even called me "pak cham kai" (steamed white chicken) I don't want that la. I shall blame it on this :

Been using the L'oreal White Perfect range for close to a year now. Before I switched over I did ask if I will become so WHITE??? Of course the answer was NO lar.

But...now...i have become My Fair Lady pulak -_-

Well..to be fair to L'oreal..I am not even sure if it is really because of the products. For all you know..it's because I've not been getting enough sun lately.

Whatever it is..I am switching!

New & improved product from L'oreal..more expensive of course.

Sucker betul la..me.

Anyhow..I think today I've got enough sun exposure.......hopefully no more my fair lady...duh.

Limbo

I predicted that Sunday will be a full busy day with my cousin's wedding...that's also one of the reason why I took leave today....so that I have an extra day getting my butt moving to do long overdue stuff..and yet still have Sunday for this family event. Unfortunately..very unfortunately....the wedding itself is in Limbo right now. The groom's father collapsed on Wed/Thurs midnight and is now in coma. The doctor said that he had a major stroke..and may not even survive. Even if he does ..he will have major paralysis to deal with. Sadness aside. This poor young couple is left not only to deal with the sudden turn of event but also under tremendous pressure to decide whether to go ahead with the wedding! If you know what I mean...it's almost like they have to make the decison in the next 12 hours...if the event should go on as planned...what if the father passes on in the midst of the 'celebration'? Obviously..there is nothing much to celebrate ..but it is practical to carry on in view of the financial losses to be incurred if it is called off. Pity.

As for me...the news hit me quite a bit. Firstly..this cousin is quite a close cousin..althought we don't speak much ..but we kind of grew up together..and I am close to her mom - my aunt. Eventhough, I only met the husband a few times..I like him ...very nice & sincere chap..my heart goes out to him. Poor chap.

Secondly, I can't help but think about my own aging dad when I hear about such unfortunate incidents. It can happen to him too! Oh no...I can't bear. A friend was telling me that she read a very touching novel..and she was overcame with emotions thinking about how she herself will not be able to handle Loss of her loved ones. I very lightly told her to chill out. Well..I lost my mom years ago..basically...things just happen...and you just have to stride through...no point thinking about it before it even happens. Easier said than done eh? Will I be able to deal with losing another loved one?


Ok..enough about sad news. Why am I here when I am suppose to be running around completing my set targets? Well, the main task is in prgress while I am here. Came back home to get some rest, lunch and pick up some stuff and of course can't resist logging on. And..I am taking longer than expected because the stupid internet connection is so freaking unstable @#!$!

Ommmm...! Better post this and hit the road again..before I get a heart attack too. Hop,fully. I will be back later today..with some pics to show off my achievement :) Still no news from cousin/ aunt yet.

On Leave

I will be on leave this Friday to settle one (may be two) long overdue matter and hopefully will be able settle some other stuff as well. I shall not mention what is it..in case it doesn't happen and another anti-climax. Will show off some pictures..IF i do get it done succesfully *grin*


Writing my to do list now. Guess it will be another busy weekend. Cousin's wedding on Sunday. Saturday no plans yet..any takers?

Triumph Tri-Action Sporst Bra (Re-post)

They've finally done it. The Tri-Action range is available for view in the Malaysian website and widely displayed in all their stores. Unfortunately I can't link you directly to the relevant pages - their website operates in Adobe Flash (hmmph...pretty annoying..kind of impersonal when everything just move around beyond our control). Alternatively, this triaction site is much better for info and viewing comfort. (Remember to select the English Language option)

Ehhm..the power of marketing...female TF instructors had been promoting the range for Triumph..they've been wearing the tops for weeks. Well..I didn't find them interesting initially..but after being exposed to them in every class...one can't help but get used to the sight.

Moreover, now they have this brilliant programme where we were given a card to collect a stamp/signature from the intructor after each class (only selected GX classes e.g BC, BP, BJ ....I think). Upon completion (10 stamps) we are entitled to a $40 discount voucher @ Triumph!

Looks like I am on my way to get one for myself eventually :) There are four types to choose from, depending on the level of impact of the sport activities that you do. The Low activity range is more for yoga and gymnastics apparently...I don't really like the design and I seldom (almost never..ok none to be exact) do yoga these days.

I kind of like the the High activity level range (pic below) simply because I like the racer-back design : ) and because I can use for both badminton and gym. Assuming I am busty enough to fit into those sexy cups *hmmph* the price is $149.90. With 10 stamps I get $40 discount...it will still cost $109.90. Hmm.. I need another 10 more classes to get another voucher? Go 7 days a week..in 2.5 weeks get $80 discount. Qi sin :-o

PIC SOURCE : http://www.triaction.com/

Letter from WV Sponsored Child

This is a letter from my sponsored child in Mongolia some years ago. It has been some time ..very long time since I wrote to her. I can't remember how long I've been a sponsor. She was 14 when I first got her details. No dates available in the doc. I actually have some of her photos with me now..but am lazy to do the scanning again.

So far I've written to her twice. First time..I inserted some photos myself and family..and my dog, Phoebe. She seems to like Phoebe..kept asking me about her. Second time..I included a world map..and indicated to her where I am from. Have not written since. May be I should get her a gift. Her birthday is on 20 Feb 1991 - she is 17 now! Gosh...I wonder if she has exceeded the age limit and if they will assign me another child.

Blog worth

Ha ha....was surfing when I was lunching..and came across this thingy...try it...it's fun! Now I can sell my blog and earn some money.

My blog is worth $1,129.08.
How much is your blog worth?

Oh..my clients would normally ask ---Do You have any Benchmark data for comparison?

Here goes ..."benchmark" results obtained just by pasting the following blog addresses to the same box ;

Lim Kit Siang's - $366,951.00

Marina Mahathir's - $305,416.14

Patrick Teoh's - $155,813.04

Gifts List

This is getting out of hand..need a status list:

• Jojo's b-day (due Nov 29th) - done!
• Baby Leon's b-day (due Dec 7th) - no have
• Nephew Danial's x'mas - done!
• Jojo's x'mas - no have
• MK and family x'mas - no have
• SY and family x'mas - no have
• AST x'mas - no have
• Cousin's kids x'mas - no have

Interesting Quote

Check this out

Are+You+The+Destroyer?

Totally Uninspired

The last 2 posts were total rubbish...was trying to get some inspiration flowing my way..but no success obviously...kind of lost in blogsphere or may be lost in life too? Nahhh..one of those quiet period where nothing much is happening. Work has been pretty much under-control (so far). By right, I should clear as much possible before the wind starts blowing again...but then...WSL nature...can only 'perform' under pressure :p I've been stuck with a simple miserable task since this morning. Can win the most unproductive employee award hands down! I guess..not being able to make it to the Dec trip is really getting into me. Really must find something else to do...to end the year with a bash. If not...I will die of boredom.

I want to take this opportunity to complain like a baby...I have wounds on both hands :( left hand wounded by a cat scratch - yet to heal. Right hand by myself....broke a piece of skin while scratching an allergy itch this morning. Stinks everytime I wash my hands :(

Hee..hee..baby or not?

Yikes..the PC froze while I was writing this. Had to re-start PC. Luckily, blogspot has the auto save thingy. My PC has been acting up lately. I have not been able to shut it down at all..before every thing shuts down completely...it re-starts itself uncontrollably! Will use it till death...and I will ask for a notebook *grin* ..But then I must quickly back up all my personal stuff..especailly all the photos. Can someone buy me an external hard disk for Christmas? Oh..I would love a Digital Photo Frame too!

Aiii...almost "five time" still talking trash. It's raining again. *Sianz*.

Wait...I wanna share this cute email I just received from Jane:

Hi hi! Two birthdays are coming up!
Let's meet up on 5 Dec (Friday) for dinner?

Venue:
1st choice: Wong Ah Wah
2nd choice: Wong Ah Wah
3rd choice: Wong Ah Wah

Okay now u know i'm not a good 'idea generator'. Speak up, gals! Where do u wan to eat?

Ahh..I love my friends! Brighten up my life just when I need some cheer :)

STRICTLY Jus for laughs

I wonder if I will be dragged to 'isa' for posting this. A friend (shall not mention name in case I get caught :D) sent me the link to this site. It's hilarious but very true to some extent. Very nasty though. Caution: It's quite lengthy, read during your free time and strictly just for laughs only.

Here's a short caption from the site. Took me a while to find the mildest section *lol*


The best way to get around Malaysia is by car.
This is because the petrol is dirt cheap. Car in Malaysia is the cheapest in the entire universe.
Even the Sing-gay-poh-rian have to drive all the way north to JB just to refill their tank for half the price compared to their own minute country. This proves that Malaysians are rich and not poor unlike what the Western Media says. Chinese Malaysians will spend insane amounts of money to buy numbers like 1,5,7,8,9, and the letter C for their license plates and the recent most expensive car plate number starting with TAN XXXX cost RM200,000 (Yes, five zeros behind im not kidding but RM200,000 is worth USD 0.01). This brings good fart and protection from God when doing stunts like following a petrol tanker at 0.005463 meters and at 80kmh, driving at the speed of light, and overtaking dangerously. If accident happens, it means you didn't have enough number 8 on your license plate... so bad luck for you, lor!

If you want to take a bus, you must go to the central bus terminal in Kotor Raya. There is also a monorail available, but it only goes from the mall to public restroom.

Click here to read more

Yawn...

PIC SOURCE PIC SOURCE

Yvonne Foong

I just made a small personal contribution to Yvonne Foong - an amazing gal I read about quite some years back. I meant to make some donation then but didn't get around to do any except for buying a t-shirt from one of her self initiated charity drive (which is still on-going). Over the years, I lapsed in keeping in touch with her progress. Her site may seem like just like any other blog written by other youngsters so one tend to forget about her real needs. Read on..you will realise what a special young lady Yvonne is --reading about things that she does to live life..will put many of us to shame.

I still keep the link to her page in my blog roll though. Was feeling a little depressed about the trip not happening...went bumming around the net to distract myself. Happened to click into her site just now..and realised that she's going for another surgery..this time to correct her deteriorating vision. The last time I checked, last year (I think) she was at another surgery to correct her hearing. Now..I feel like a bum for complaining so much.

Yvonne is fighting Neurofibromatosis. I shall not attempt to explain her condition...I can't even spell the the name of the disease without reference. Here's a small caption from her bio-page:

Diagnosis: Neurofibromatosis Type 2. (July 2002)

Surgeries:
August 2002 - Multiple spine tumor removal
April 2003 - Partial Acoustic Neuroma removal - Brain.
September 2004 - Complete Acoustic Neuroma removal - Brain.
October 2006 - Complete Acoustic Neuroma removal - Brain.

Prognosis:
1. Optic Gliomas causing nerve atrophy.
2. Under-development of left eyeball and retina, causing small optic nerve.
3. Semi facial palsy.
4. Jugular Foramen Meningioma.
5. Multiple brain tumors.
6. Multiple tumors along cervical, thoracic, and lumbar spine.
7. Multiple peripheral schwannomas.
8. Absence of VIII cranial nerves - the vestibulocochlear nerves.
9. Presence of the Auditory Brainstem Implant to assist hearing.

Due to the nature of the disease (which is incurable), Yvonne is in constant need of medical funds. If you are feeling charitable today, tomorrow, next week, anyday...think of Yvonne:

Details for donations:
Maybank A/C no. 112223202599
Name: Foong Ming Niang

No Manado :(

PIC SOURCE:
http://www.evilkid.com/licensing/sadkitty/pages/home.html

After all the fuss, the MANADO trip will not materialise after all. @#!&^ Client just arranged a presentation meeting on the target date. @#$%!

Logging on to AA to look for alternative now. This is so anti-climax.

Sorry Chris!

UPDATED @12.20pm:
Just found out that there was a powerful earthquake in Sulawesi early today.
"..a powerful earthquake struck an area off northern Sulawesi early on Monday, causing a brief tsunami warning and triggering panic among residents in parts of the island"

No details about losses and casualties yet...read more about it here
And..here is a blog about life in Manado & Bunaken @ Sulawesi North...disclaiming the possiblities of Tsunami in Manado.

I don't know what has all this gotta do with my 'almost non possible' Manado trip..but ..what the heck. For the records.

Work, Eat, Play Hard

A bit tired now...so I ain't gonna write much. As with all weekends..I spoil myself with food and put all the gym trips to waste :p

Friday dinner @ Restoran Wong Ah Wah, Jalan Alor (most famous for their BBQ chicken wings).

Headcount : 3 ladies

Food list - fried foo chok (stuffed bean curd sheet), fried potato leaf with belacan, clams in soup, Fried glass noodle, Fried wan tan noodle with roast pork and of course BBQ chicken wings

Food habis

Saturday night @Backyard Pub , Taman Sri Hartamas - another get together with the crazy CSOG bunch. Started about 10ish, I left about 2ish after 2 drinks. Party continued at a second location till 5ish..I was told. Hot moms! Put me to *shame*. My sis thinks that it's a shame that I live such a quiet life when I am still single...such low energy level. I told her that..my energy all used up in day time...but then...so are these moms - I am sure they have their day time duties! Sorry la..moms..partying and dancing not my cup of tea lar.

Some snacks

Drinks.. 'COKE' konon-nya..according to Mit

Oh ya..I had a good game of badminton with Esther in the same morning. Esther was my badminton partner when I was playing for the school. It's quite difficult to get to play together nowadays as most of my play mates are married with kids. I used to play with the guys e.g. FY and the late LCK...but I think they have stopped playing since LCK passing.

Understandably, I have moved on to other activities. Comparatively, I get kind of bored and frustrated waiting. At the gym..I'd normally zoom in and out independently as and when I like. Badminton - I always ended up waiting...waiting for Esther to turn up, waiting for the court to be available, waiting for enough play mates to confirm availability, etc.

But...when the game starts...the adrenalin..the sweat... ...ahh...so familiar..so satisfying ...unexplanable!

Sunday ..was widely awake by 7am eventhough I only had 4 hours of 'not very sound' sleep. &^%$#@ skipped tai ci but dragged myself to the gym..since I couldn't sleep on after trying really hard. Didn't expect mself to survive the class..but I did. Boleh jugak la..my energy level..where got low. And I am still widely awake now.

Lunch was @ Backofen, Desa Sri Hartamas with AST, SY (with kids) and MK. Initial plan was at Sugimoto..but it was closed! Souled out was not open for lunch too. So..decided on Backofen instead..since SY is bringing the kids. Pretty good food. The breakfast menu was so inviting..that I decided to order one of it..eventhough it was lunch time. I didn't have breakfast ma.

Food list: Rosemary chicken (pic), Turkey ham and cheese omelette, Bolognaise pizza and Cakes (pic) for dessert.

It didn't occur to me that I had to get a birthday gift for AST..since my other friends had stopped getting each other birthday gifts. I forgot that this bunch is very "Gifty":p so..I ended up buying the meal lor.

Was home by about 3ish. Still widely awake but tired , more because of the game & BC, three quarter of my muscle groups are sore now including both knees.

I have not been spending enough time at home..my rooms are a mess! The festive season's coming up...spring cleaning time...arggh! But..of course..not today la... I have not even done the laundry..it's been rainingg whole of yesterday..couldn't do any yesterday morning.

Spend some time playing with the cats just now..and got myself 'injured'.

Aik..thought I wasn't going to write much?!

Logging out to do the laundry now :(

Catching up on TARA repeat tonight...but it's less fun when Henry & Bernie is out :(

GRANDMASTER HUANG SHENG SHYAN

This is my late Grand Master (i.e. my instructor's Si Fu!):

Lovely Day!

PICTURE SOURCE:http://farm1.static.flickr.com/171/434372224_c0d1405bd6.jpg

Today shall be a lovely day I believe. After much rain yesterday, this morning was bright & sunny with beautiful clouds in the sky. It was a joy breezing through the roads (smooth traffic!)...everyone looking cool in their sunglasses....ahhh...what more can you ask for? (Err...it will be even cooler if I am in the cool convertible Peugeot 207) Malaysian weather is beautiful..it rains subtlely for half a day or a few hours to cool us down..and then the sun comes back to warm us up :)

I've been craving for Roti Canai since Wednesday! Was yearning so badly for it last night. Luckily, managed to restrain myself....or rather..luckily my sister had salted vege chicken soup waiting for me. Heathier option :) but...for the night only..this morning..I woke up a little earlier..skipped the normal nutritious breakfast, headed to my favourite mamak joint @ Kanna Curry House. Never mind the bad throat that has been bothering me for weeks.....Bliss!!

Have a lovely weekend everyone!!!

Oh ya..I wanted to note down here...that I've been enjoying more with this blog lately. Thanks for visiting...Thanks for the comments...and Thanks for keeping me motivated and inspirited :)

Friendship

This was taken at PPL's wedding three years ago in Batu Pahat. Today is her 3rd wedding anniversary - time flies indeed.

This picture brings back good memories...see the black circle on the left outer most...think that's my hand :D

Don't know what got into us - we actually took leave and drove all the way to Batu Pahat to attend this wedding.

UPDATED ON 14 NOV:

Ooop...how could I forget to say this.....Congratulations & Happy Anniversary PPL!!!

Peugeot 207

PEUGEOT 207

Ahh...

I have not wrote anything today because my mind is fully occupied dreaming about owning this beautiful car...

PICTURE FROMhttp://www.cartoonstock.com/directory/d/day-dreaming_gifts.asp

well, well, well....The Law of Attraction Will BringYou Whatever You Truly Desire *wink*

Manado - North of Sulawesi

MANADO - sounds like MANA TU isn't it?
When Chris sent the email (with links about the place)..I had no time to click into the links. I presumed MANADO will be some place in Indonesia...nearby Jakarta...reachable by Air Asia. With AA..everyone's going to places like Medan, Bandung, Laos...so I thought MANADO will be someting equivalent. Chill!!!

It still didn't strike me when I first read WK's comment in the early part of last night. Ya..delayed reaction...I think..only this morning...the word SULAWESI....and then the image above (thanks to my limited Geography knowledge) striked me.

SULAWESI?? That funny looking island off Sabah/ Sarawak that no one pays attention to! OMG...scare la. Got pirates or not?? Didn't expect this to come from Chris ler.
*Biting my nails*

Did a very quick read on one of the link just now:

Manado city is the provincal capital of North Sulawesi.
Manado is the starting point for exploration of the Minahasa region's many attractions. Fun-loving and extroverted, the Minahasa people live in neat wood frame houses, with fences and flower gardens, giving Manado a European feel. There is a wide range of hotels and restaurants. Those with an adventurous palate should try the famously hot and spicy Minahasa cuisine. The city's numerous shops and markets are filled with an abundance of consumer goods and agricultural produce, while behind every building are glimpses of emerald hills and azure sea.Inland from Manado, a trip through the Minahasa Highlands will take you to intriguing prehistoric above-ground burial sites, volcanoes, hot springs, the highland lake Tondano and breathtaking panoramas of lush mountains, coffee and coconut plantations, orchid gardens and terraced hillsides. From Manado, also be sure to visit the Dua Saudara Nature Reserve, home to birds and other wildlife unique to Sulawesi, such as the Tarsier - the smallelst monkey, cus cus, Hornbill etc.

Hm...sure or not?? Wait a minute..I think one of my horoscope reading says that I should go somewhere that I've never been before. This is it??

Exotic - Desa Sri Hartamas

I found a decent place for fusion Thai, Vietnamese & Cambodian food! It's called Exotic - same row as CIMB bank...very near to the Finnegans. The restaurant always look empty...so I never thought of trying until I came across some blog entries about it. Surprise..surprise..the food was good ler. Service is excellent too and most importantly..the price is reasonable.

Aiii...I am still having problems with the bluetooth connection hence can't transfer photos I took using the phone - I Need a New Phone!

So..as usual..I shall refer you to other blogs :)>>http://klpeopleklfood.blogspot.com/2007/08/exotic-desa-sri-hartamas.html

Do give it a try..if you are a fan of that/vietnamese/ cambodian dishes...

Sucker!

McD has a new item in the menu - the Big 'n' Tasty - Quarter Pounder beef patty with special sauce etc etc.

A single ala-carte burger is $7.55 excluding taxes
A value set that comes with Coke & Fries is $9.90 excluding taxes.

I don't normally take soft drinks...(not good for me) and fries (ah ah...too fattening?!). So..on most occasion I'd just taek away a burger.

But...look at the price difference here. For a difference of $2.35....I get Fries and Coke wor! Sucker! Now....I am left with 3/4 glass of the Coke and another 3/4 portion of cold Fries.

Food wastage!!!!!!

P/S: By the way, the burger is good. Worth giving it a try :)

Good Day..

Hmmm..looks like I am I am running out of things to write these days. Yesterday started with Good Morning..today starts with Good Day. It does seems like a Good Day today. Traffic was good...weather seems nice. I slept well after a good session of Tai ci last night. Am totally refreshed now. Do you believe that I sweat as much in Tai ci as when I do BC...with one condition though...provided if I concentrate :) Been dragging my feet to go to tai ci...lazy..it doesn't give as much High as BC but then..it will be a waste if I were to stop learning now. Long term investment...must persevere! As the instructor said ...."if one is determined and continue digging for a well at one place, eventually water will emerge....it doesn't work if one keeps moving around digging at different places"

Grrr..I am trying to finish this off quickly..so that I can get started onsome 'real work' (have quite a bit of stuff to clear before a meeting in the evening) but the browser is extremely slow these days. Disturbing my flow of thoughts -_- By now..I've lost the rhythm completely..already..I have not much to say today..now nothing's left.

Oh ya..in case u have not heard..the amazing CLK had just given birth to her second child. Another extra-ordinary friend of mine. In less then 24 months...she got married, got pregnant, went into labour, got pregnant again and now jus got out of 2nd labour again! Woh!

Ok....getting late...really gotta get down to work. Ciao!

oh oh...one more thng..I may get a holiday after all in December....(if Chris - the perfect organiser-succeeds in getting me to move my ass) - Target destination - MANADO - no idea where, how, when, what, yet...mystery travelling..that's what I like :)

Rest in Peace - Aunty Lena

I think that's what they call her. "Aunty Lena's home cooking" -- I always get my rice from her whenever I needed to eat in. Most of the time, the food is quite tasty...except once when I had the fried mee hoon. I like her fried eggs, fried chicken, curry chicken, curry tau foo pok. "Thank you girl" -- she will always say this to me when I take away my food. She has been operating from a kiosk for years..until recently moved to a proper stall when the mall allocated a corner for food stall. Business has been good..cos it's relatively more decent food..closer to home cook food as oppose to fast food and mamak style food. Since post deepavali ( I think) the stall has been closed. Out of curiosity..I asked the neighbouring chee cheong fun stall. "sudah tak mahu jual" was her answer. I was liked.."huh..business so good..mengapa?" "Aunty Lena sudah meninggal" "sakit perut..lepas tu meninggal"

I was in total shock!

Sigh...life is indeed short.

So..lunch today is chee cheong fun. Splashing CCF sauce all over myself and work documents as I am writing this.

Good Morning..

Helo..thought I'd start my first entry of the week with some colorful images. Originally...I wanted to start off whining about what a tired morning it is for me..bla bla bla..but after looking at the images I took at Nic's party..I felt cheerful :) Err...so ..when I have nothing to moan about...that leaves nothing much for me to write! Wel..I am kind of tired today. Had quite a long day...was out of the house by 730am..doing my usual 'healthy' stuff. Dropped by One U in between lunch and Nic's 3pm party....hoping to do some early Christmas shopping. Only managed to get a book for Leon (S.May's boy) -- he is 11 month ...and I hv not bought him anything ever since he was born..so yesterday was a good chance..since we rarely meet...(well..i thought he had passed one yr old...but was told he will only be One in December..and there will be a party :) Ai yaa...can't seem to keep track of these kids...more and more popping out as we grow older.
I ate more junk at Nic's party at McD's...fries, fried chicken, burger, McFlurry, Apple Pie...arghh. Luckily..dinner was a proper decent on with sis and dad with proper dishes and rice. Err..the dishes was very tasty..and so... I ate more rice than usual -_-

Hmm..may be I should 'fast' for the rest of the week. Still feeling a bit sickly (heaty) after all the roasted, grilled and fried food intake in the last 60 hours!