Love Peace & Everything Nice

cafe cafe

2010-08-09T23:27:00.003+08:00

I think I'm going to start visiting cafes around town. This actually started off when a colleague of mine recommended me to go to a little cafe which serves apparently the best pastries in the area. I have yet to check it out but have promised him (and myself) that I will go, hopefully this coming weekend.

Besides the said cafe, some have suggested me to try out a few other cafes. The list is as below:-

The Teapot Cafe, SS2

Poco Homemade, Bangsar

LaVain Boulangerie Patisserie, Off Jalan Imbi

Cafe Barbera, Bangsar

I wish to add on to the list so if you happen to know great cafes for me to visit, please share them with me!

bitter sweet stories resurfaces

2010-06-07T22:57:00.004+08:00

Since the washing machine and the dryer are broken, I'm not encouraged to drop a sweat at gym. Being my pampered self, I wouldn't bring myself to washing my own stinky clothes. So for a couple of days, I'm going to stay flabby until help comes to fix the broken machines.

It has been a while since I have had the urge to write again. Since the hecticness in our household has gone down a little, it gives me the opportunity to think about ongoing issues, current development and future plans. Nothing new to be frank - they are just the same old things reccuring on the surface of my mind.

So my friend finally gets a degree, and now queuing for interviews with some local (foreign to me!) banks. Who would have thought that she'd be sucked into the banking industry just like what had happened to me. Let's hope that the industry abroad is much better than the one here, or at least let us hope that the department she's joining is much more exciting than the one I have been stuck in for nearly 3 years.

I'm looking for new avenues, of which I'm not very certain of. I want to try something new, something exciting, and something which would give my youth back. Well, not so much of the last point, but feeling younger is something many wish to have after reaching the quarter of a century point. Figuring out these new avenues is a real pain in the bottom as I can never figure out something substantial, something sustainable, and something profitable that I can jump into.

I need guidance and more exposure. I need to make a change before the new year approaches.

Wish me luck.

Happy holidays

2009-12-24T23:22:00.001+08:00

Dear all,

Today was my last working day for 2009. To begin with, the office was rather empty as many had taken their block leave during the last few weeks of the year. On top of that, we have this policy where employees are allowed to leave at 3pm on the eve of every festive holiday, provided the Head of Department agrees to it. Our Head had no objection to policy though he instructed for at least a person from each team to stay in the office until six to take care of the fort, just in case. Unfortunately for me, I am in a team of only 2 members and my sole team mate was already on leave. In my last few working hours for the year, I nearly froze to death in the office as there was not enough body heat to warm up the division.

On this eve of Xmas (though we don't celebrate it), my family, completed with 7 members, had a wonderful Xmas dinner. The biggest compliments must be given to the chef i.e. my eldest sister. On the menu, there were:-

1. Roasted chicken thighs

2. Roasted potatoes

3. Roasted carrots

4. Roasted turnips

5. Roasted garlics and onions

6. Steamed brocolli

7. Yorkshire puddings

8. Stuffing

9. Gravy

10. Caramel for desserts

To no surprise, we were all very stuffed with extra large muffin tops! It would have been perfect if there were presents to complement the meal!

I'm rocking some beaches in Thailand tomorrow, hoping to re-energise myself before a crazy January which is approaching in a week time. I have so much to do in the first month of 2010 that thinking about it makes my head spin! I'm going to do myself a favour and forget all about banking and finance, and only think about tanned skin, sea water and wind rushing on my face.

Thailand, here I come to visit you for the second time this year!!

Merry Xmas and happy holidays :-)

Love,

jaygee

11 days til 2010

2009-12-20T00:11:00.006+08:00

Since there are many 3-day weekends this month, I took the opportunity to try catching up with some of my friends, some who live nearby and some who reside across Europe. All are busy with their own things, let it be completing her degree, rocking culinary school and preparing for work project at a different part of the world.

One of my greatest friends who is luckily still in Edinburgh, has been extremely busy finalising her projects, preparing and rehearsing for presentations and revising for some of her final year exams. Thankfully the hecticness is slowing down since Christmas and the New Year are approaching and looks like all her effort will be paid off with trips to Ireland and London during the festive holidays. To think about it, I was in Britain for 4 years and I didn't even try considering Ireland as one of the places to visit. Maybe my next trip there. 2010 perhaps, before Britain imposes a visa requirement for Malaysians to visit the country?

During my tough times abroad, another friend of mine would try to comfort me by offering to make a traditional Spanish tortilla especially for me. I remember the tortilla being really thick, filled with only potatoes, wrapped in eggs. He, who used to take the same course as I did, decided to pursue something more meaningful to him, at that point it was working for a famous computer game company. Years have passed by and I was just updated by him personally that he had enrolled himself into a culinary school and is enjoying every single bit of it. Now he is to enter a cooking show whereby he is required to create his own recipe based on pre-determined ingredients. He has told me that his recipe is now finalised and he is ready to compete. I wish him all the best for the competition.

For this other pal of mine, he has been through a lot. Many take him for granted mainly because he is generally a nice person. Though shit happens to him, he does not get distracted and is always determine to reach his goals when it comes to his career. As a result of his hardwork, he has been recognised by his ultimate boss and now he is rather "promoted" to assist a project in India for at least half a year. It a wonderful opportunity to offer a person with so much potential, who I personally believe that someday would be the ultimate boss for some public listed organisation.

Me? Nothing major has happened to me lately, still doing the same things and still hanging out with the same people. Though I am going for a trip to Thailand (yet again!), as usual with another group of people. So many things to do before the trip and I'm running out of time. Probably will place some pictures up when I come back (provided I still have the urge to write).

Til the next time, Sayonara!

decisions, decisions, decisions

2009-09-03T23:16:00.002+08:00

To say the very least, I have been very frustrated with how things are going right now. I keep reminding myself that changes are the only constant thing in life. Although I agree with the phrase, wouldn't it be wonderful with some things are kept unchanged?

I've been addicted to The Apprentice UK and I believe that the little drama from the reality TV series is refraining me from going insane.

T'was nice to see you

2009-08-31T21:56:00.002+08:00

I think I might have offended someone when I was out earlier.

There I was in a queue at the cashier waiting for my turn to pay. In the background, I could hear a couple talking rather loudly behind me about how lecturers usually 'close one eye' when marking their students' work. I continued looking forward while trying to register whose voice it was. Two seconds later, everything seemed so obvious.

I turned around to check how accurate I was. Spot on. The man I would love to hate smiled in front of me. I initiated the conversation,

"I thought it was you."

His smile grew wider but with a pinch of sleaziness, as usual. He responded,

"You recognised my voice! That's so sweeeeet."

I just could not look at him in the eyes so I tried to distract myself by taking my purse out of my handbag while saying,

"Actually, it is quite, scary." (Honestly, it is!)

His sleazy smile disappeared so I quickly paid my bill at the cashier and wished him goodbye.

i'm back (at least for now)

2009-08-30T01:20:00.002+08:00

I think it's about time to erase the Iranian president's face off my latest post. I have to be honest here, I actually have no thoughts of writing anything interesting right now (as if they were all interesting previously!). But I've been thinking, I know that I used to write a lot in the past. I think I could be rather funny and I think I could write fairly well. Hmm, maybe it's time to pick up on the old hobby again.

So what's been up with me lately? I bought a new computer and now I should have more motivation to do what I had been wanting to do whilst I had restricted internet access at home. I have also started realising my dream (though I'm thinking of baby steps right now) of launching my own (or rather my family's own) eatery/bakery! My family and I have been selling brownies for the past one month and we are very grateful that the demand has been pretty wonderful.

Of course I just turned 20 something a week ago. Nothing has changed as I'm still the same old person. As of now, I'm a full time soul seeker until further notice.

Glad to be writing again.

your thoughts?

2009-06-15T09:42:00.003+08:00

I think the Iranian President, Ahmadinejad, somehow looks like.. hmm.. Patrick Dempsey.

Your thoughts?

10 things about the weekend

2009-04-20T15:29:00.003+08:00

1. First Coach buses breed flies.

2. The water which seperates Singapore from Johor is called the Straits of Johor (formerly known as Straits of Tebrau).

3. Singapore is freakily clean.

4. Singaporean taxis are punctual and easily available.

5. Singaporean taxi drivers do not know how to drive.

6. HTC phones are apparently supercheap in Singapore.

7. CATS the musical has no storyline.

8. Rhinos are anti social animals.

9. I have natural talent playing wii sports.

10. Apparently according to Singaporean Immigration, I don't look like my passport photo.

High School Revisited

2009-03-15T17:01:00.003+08:00

After much preperation and a little bit of misunderstanding, fifteen of us gathered at Two Monkeys Satay Bar & Cafe for our 8th year reunion since we left secondary school. We were expecting more of our school mates to come, however since there was a big football game on telly last night, I would imagine that they would rather not miss the big game than to see their friends from school.

Although the crowd was small, we appreciated each other's company. We exchanged name cards, life experiences and took a number of pictures throughout the night. The restaurant that we went to just launched about a month ago and I must say the food is above our expectations. The chef is a Malay lad who just decided to co-launch the restaurant with an ex-colleague.

At the end of the night, everybody was happy to have gathered at a wonderful chill out place. May our 10th year reunion in 2011 be a greater event with a bigger crowd.

eventful

2009-03-10T23:31:00.006+08:00

Quote of the day must be from a bum hole in a fitness center - "Hormone imbalance?" while pointing at my face which has a few fresh acnes.

Anyway, last weekend was rather eventful where I had reunited with some girlfriends which I had not seen in a long time. First and foremost, one of the lovely Marchmont Girls came back for a holiday with a nice rock on her finger! *SMILES* A big congratulations to her and her partner and may the wedding preparation be exciting and not-so-stressful. Hehe.

Right after our special mini gathering, I rushed home to bake a birthday cake for a friend. This time around, I thought of baking a Jaffa cake i.e. chocolate orange cake to let my guinea pigs taste. To be honest, I wasn't proud of this effort as it didn't taste as wonderful as I thought it would be. To the birthday girl, I'm so sorry that it wasn't my best cake made :( *CRIES* Here is a picture of the cake.

The birthday BBQ was fun fun fun!! To the birthday girl, let me tell you how stressful I was when I was preparing for your day - just for the fun of it.

Number one: It was a Sunday and all cake shops were closed. Because of that, I couldn't fine a fitting tray and a box to cater your cake! I was ready to cut your cake into halves so that I could fit them into 2 smaller boxes I have at home. In the end, I didn't so I searched high and low for that big ass tray to place your cake on.

Number two: After writing some soppy messages on your birthday card, naturally I'd look for the envelope to put the card into. JENG JENG JENGGG - the card couldn't fit into the envelope! OMG I thought I was going to go insane that night. Thankfully, my sister had a nice fitting envelope for your card. The buyer of the card conveniently had forgotten to tell me about the misfitting. *FAINTS*

There you go. The dramaaaaaa! I'm glad it's all over and really happy that your birthday BBQ went absolutely wonderful. Happy birthday again.

via alternative route

2009-03-04T14:25:00.003+08:00

Starbucks rolls out Via instant coffee - (The Star 04/03/09)

CHICAGO (AP) - Alongside its flashy array of triple espressos, foamy cappuccinos and half-caff extra-hot flavored lattes, Starbucks Corp. unveiled its newest coffee drink Tuesday: a cup of average, instant Joe served up for the equally proletarian price of about a dollar a cup.

Hoping to convince recession-shocked customers to return to the brand that has spent years cultivating coffee connoisseurs, Starbucks is at first offering instant coffee only in Chicago and the chain's home base of Seattle.

Executives hope the water-soluble "Via" - sold in three- and 12-packs - will reinvigorate the chain's sagging sales and profits, and give it an edge in the globe's $17 billion market for instant coffee.

> Those who are visiting Chicago or Seattle soon, you know what to get for me :)

march blabber

2009-03-02T09:23:00.003+08:00

Nothing much to update really. Just thought of sharing these pictures with everyone :)

Aren't these little girls adorable??

The Other J Pie!

2009-02-26T22:41:00.003+08:00

Hmm, I personally think the presentation of my J pie was much better than this other J pie. What do you think?

for good cause

2009-02-25T19:15:00.001+08:00

Thus far, I have collected RM125. The contributions made by these honourable people are deeply appreciated. Though, we (the Bank as a whole) are far from meeting our target of RM125,000. Individually, we aim to get at least RM400 and as you can see, I'm only 30% from meeting my target! To those generous ones, I'd be really happy if you could add on to my collection and it would be my pleasure to come and collect the donation from you. Thanks for your attention and kindness! :D

i love pie

2009-02-23T08:41:00.007+08:00

I baked chicken pie on Sunday after much time spent preparing the ingredients. Truthfully, this is not my first time making it but I thought I should start off this cooking frenzy with something familiar and would definitely taste good.

Since I only managed to get the thin individual ready-sliced puff pastries, I had to place the pie into small separate tin foils (look at the picture below). Don't call me stingy because I would love to make a bigger pie, if only the puff pastry could cover the bigger pyrex we have at home. Plus, it would save so much of my time if I could make one big chicken pie!

Aaah, I was really into baking/cooking so I personalised the pies a wee bit. Each of the pie had our initials on it so no one would argue which pies they should take. We were also a little bit too generous with the egg yolks on the pastries. As a result, my pies were really so golden!

Voila! The final product. My chicken pie served with my mom's salad. And yes it was edible and stomach-ache-free!!! :)

fun time with nature

2009-02-21T23:46:00.011+08:00

Actually I wanted to upload these pictures on FB but since FB is being such a pain in the bottom, I thought I should take this opportunity to spice up my blog site. Heh.

Not too long ago, some of my good friends and I went to appreciate nature at the forest reserve. Although we started rather late in the morning (more like at about noon), the weather was very pleasant as the big trees shielded us from the hot sun and the air from the waterfall was so cooling.

Once we found the perfect spot to sit, our stomaches were already growling hecticly. So we fixed some egg and tuna sandwiches to partially satisfy our empty bellies. Later after that, we had roti canai and some chicken salad made from random ingredients but tasted wonderfully yummy. There were watermelon and pears for desserts.

A rather small but entertaining crowd. We discussed almost about everything - from delicious food to wedding rings. What a combination!

There was an ice cream man standing at the bottom of the hill and we had been eyeing on that man since we arrived at the forest reserve. After much convincing done by us to a particular girl buddy, we managed to get a cone of ice cream each and that just perfected our day! Yes, we admit we did bully her but deep down our hearts we do love her and she knows that.

This outing deserves a five star recognition from me! :) And by the way, the photos are already up on FB!!!!!!!! Woot!!

still alive and kicking

2009-02-17T23:34:00.002+08:00

Hmm, I have been very quiet lately. Ever since I started working on my resolution number 1 (part of) and 4, there isn't any time to spare on my computer at home. Though, I have a feeling that I'd be writing a lot more in the upcoming weeks. Til then!

have you made your contribution to the unfortunates?

2009-01-27T00:27:00.005+08:00

Remember that run I did a couple of weeks ago? Yes, I am now going around seeking your kind contributions to support a local organisation which helps unfortunate children who have been abused, sexually.

If you happen to be one of those who I approach for donation, your small contribution is very much appreciated by these kids. A ringgit means a whole lot for them.

And if you wish to donate even when I have not approached you, you're a superstar. Please contact me so that further arrangements could be made :)

Contribution starts today and ends on 31st March 2009.

2009 Resolutions

2009-01-25T16:41:00.004+08:00

OK, so I'm a little late in finalising my new year's resolutions. Now that I have some time to think and re-evaluate myself (a thing that I have been doing quite too often lately), these are what I plan or still plan to do in 2009:

1) To stay healthy - to eat balance meals, do more outdoor activities and have some more gym time.

2) To watch an award winning film every fortnight - I have a whole list of it!

3) To prepare and make new dishes at least twice a month - I kinda miss living on my own and having to decide what to eat every day.

4) To pick up one kind of sports and be good in it - I've been wanting to play squash and master the sport ever since I left UoE. Maybe if this goes well this year, I'll pick up golf in 2010.

5) To finish a book this year - Yes one book. I'm being realistic here.

6) To further explore the world - I already have Singapore on my calendar, perhaps Bali in July and we'll see where my savings can take me later on this year.

7) To contribute to the unfortunates - More charity walks / runs to come and maybe it's time to visit the orphanage and old folks' home again.

Seven resolutions for 2009. I'm not being too ambitious here, am I?

:-(

2009-01-18T21:44:00.000+08:00

celebration of happiness

2009-01-07T23:41:00.000+08:00

Just when I thought this would be the biggest finale of the wedding craze month, I received another invitation for a wedding this coming weekend. Slow down people!! I can't keep up. My laundry expenses are now contributing a significant portion of my disposable income!! Anyway, we had a mayjah reunion last weekend at Emma and Edd's wedding do. Friends we hadn't seen for 7 years were reunited so you can imagine how much catching up needed to be done! It was a wonderful weekend with many happy faces and some tearful ones.

The solemnisation of marriage i.e. akad nikah was held on Friday, 02/01/09 at Al-Ghurfan Mosque located just around the corner. The girls and I were all excited for the bride and the fact that all of us had to cover up as a sign of respect in the holy place.

These girls and I were assigned to carry the hantaran (what's new for me eh?). I quickly grabed the Quran before someone asked me to carry the, usually heavy, cake. Heh. We took the opportunity to snap some pictures before our hair get messed up by the head scarves. Oh by the way, if you hadn't realised, the theme colour was blue :)

First reunion picture after Emma was pronounced as Edd's wife. I remember him saying, "Let us all take pictures. Where's my wife? Where's my wife??" He must be proud of her :)

The bride's wedding luncheon took place on Saturday, 03/01/09 at Seri Melayu on Jalan Conlay. We were entertained by dance performances which if I'm not mistaken emphasised on the bride's part-Indonesian origin. Actually, that's just me guessing. They were stunning that afternoon.

We had the biggest reunion since we graduated from high school during the groom's wedding dinner at TTDI's community hall on Sunday, 04/01/09. To be honest, the girls and I were already very tired from attending the 2 prior ceremonies. But hey, anything for our beloved bride!

At the end of the hectic three days, the newlyweds were relieved that all the wedding do were finally over. We wish you both the greatest married life and honestly, we can't wait to see the juniors! :D

2008 recap

2009-01-06T22:26:00.000+08:00

I'll be doing a questionnaire later this week to reflect what year 2008 has been to me. I can't wait to compare my experiences this year with that of last year. If you were to ask me right now how the year had been so far, I'd say it is overall good despite the rollercoaster ride.

These are some pictures I've taken throughout the year. Let us recap:

January 2008 - I returned Edinburgh to wrap up my 4-year journey. It was good to see everyone again and hang out at the regular cafes. Favorit, Glenhas, Kilimanjaro, The Spot (yeah that one in KB) and many Starbucks Coffee cafes. This city will forever be remembered together with the memories I made in that 4 long years.

February 2008 - The first long distance trip made by the Roadrunner. I drove 400km up north to Penang to utilise the long weekend we had in conjunction with the Federal Territory Day. Since that trip, I have decided that that was the first and final long distance trip that car will make. I love that car dearly, thus from then onwards it is only restricted to travel within the Klang Valley to avoid it breaking down that very often.

The engagement of one of my good friends to a schoolmate of mine. A shocking news, nevertheless we were all happy for both of them. Looked forward to the big day which is now finally over. What a wonderful way to start their new year.

March 2008 - CBK retreat @ Port Dickson. My second corporate retreat since I started working for the Bank. It was a relaxing retreat considering that I didn't have to be the emcee for the event! Got nominated for Best Dressed for wearing a beach skirt and a Polo shirt (I was meant to be a tennis player, heh) and won many junk food throughout the two days.

May 2008 - My third visit to Kuching, Sarawak involved trying out local delicacies, over-eating and movie marathon. We had the perfect host who brought us to this restaurant called The Junk. The ambience was romantic, the food was delicious and the company was the best. I would recommend everyone to visit this restaurant if they're in Kuching. Something you would never forget.

July 2008 - The batik themed annual dinner. It was not Halloween yet but many of us dressed up in cowboy outfits to grab the Group Best Dressed title. Unfortunately we ended up being sore losers after losing to the aluminium wrapped Gladiator team. Boohoo.

That's me standing in front of my brand new ride. Yeah, in my dreams. We were lending a hand to a local musical production called No Limits starring Kopitiam's lead actress, Joanna Bessey. To be honest, the musical was below par but working with them was fun!

August 2008 - It was a wonderful surprise coming home to a beautifully made birthday cake filled with much TLC. I felt so happy and appreciated with what was made for me. Thanks once again and I assure you that this will be remembered forever. x

Krabi - By the end of the trip, I became a zebra (Still am actually). Although I very much wanted to be in Bangkok instead, I'm thankful that I ended up in Krabi. Due to some political demonstration, we were forced to extend our stay for 2 additional days with very little cash. What an experience!

October 2008 - One memorable Eid with the surprise return of my eldest sister. We were photo whoring the whole two months sampai sakit pipi. Well it was nice having you back so don't forget to return home more often ye.

The biggest wedding do of the year. One of my cousin sister got married and all of our family members from all around Malaysia came down to KL to see her get hitched. Hmm, actually the wedding craze started from this one. Since this one, it doesn't look like it's going to stop!

November 2008 - Treasure Hunt!! In my debut to treasure hunting, we drove from Kuala Lumpur and were required to reach Kuala Terengganu in 9 hours. I never knew hunting would be so tough. We reach KT a second less than 9 hours but managed to grab forth placing and win RM2000!

In 2008, I went clubbing only twice and this was a picture taken that night in Quattro.

December 2008 - The wedding frenzy began. Attending weddings initially was fun but it get exhausting and annoying in the end. Amongst all events I attended, the Xmas party I went to was the best! Unfortunately the pictures are yet to be available. So there, 2008 recap. A crazy but satisfying year. Can't wait to see what 2009 would offer!

Happy 2009

2009-01-01T21:52:00.000+08:00

The final day of 2008 started quite tough for me as my boss did not want to approve my leave for Friday. The remaining of the day was still bad until the point where I left my office at quarter past six. Once home, a bunch of us went out to look for tree branches, fire starters and some oil for our BBQ debut later that night.

Our first BBQ went pretty well, I thought, with some wonderful company and delicious food. We started at about 8 pm and ended roughly at 11pm. After a thorough clean up session, we climbed up the hill where the mosque is located to have a first class viewing of the new year's fireworks from three different locations. The fireworks were breath taking and I enjoyed every single bit of it.

Here are some photos from last night.

The Boy Scouts - They started the fire with some charcoals, firestarters, newspapers, broken matches and candles. It took them a solid half an hour to get the fire ready for the BBQ.

Our BBQ grill - we had some sweet potatoes (wrapped in aluminium foil), chicken wings and thighs and lamb chops! My mother marinated the meats with special ingredients (some TLC I'm very sure) and they ended up being very tasty after they were all cooked!

Aha! That's me actually looking after the food. I assure you nothing got burnt under my care ;)

The well done chicken wings and lamb chops. These, I assure you, weren't the end result under my watch! Hehe. Blame it all on SG.

Dear all,

Happy 2009! I hope you had achieved everything you wanted in 2008 and may all your wishes and dreams come true in the brand new year. I'd like to thank all for your guidance and support throughout the year and let us all venture into 2009 with bigger steps and brighter hopes.

Love always, jaygee

wedding / engagement photos

2008-12-28T19:23:00.007+08:00

Oh gosh. I have taken so many photos this month so I have to make it a point to upload them on my rather dead blog.

20th December 2008 - Another Pink Rosey Posh Marchmont Girls got hitched! Kat, my former housemate in Edinburgh tied a knot with the love of her life on a beautiful Saturday night. Being her only ex-housemate in Malaysia, I thought my attendance that night would be much appreciated as I would be representing all from 62 Marchmont Road.

I came an hour earlier on her Nikah night just to spend some quality time with her before she became Mrs ZR. She was gorgeous that night - the most feminine Kat I had even seen!

Mr & Mrs ZR after only one lafaz. They look so cute together!

21st December 2008, Sunday - The newlyweds' wedding reception at PJ Hilton. It was a grand traditional wedding with a touch of Negeri Sembilan's cultural element. The above picture - Edinburgh Malaysians reunited (minus the Warwick dude.. LOL). We ended the night with some snacks from A&W and the 'excitement' to return to work the very next day.

This weekend - The engagement of my cousin bruva in Putrajaya on Sunday, 28th December 2008. Short and sweet ceremony started with the rombongan lelaki carrying 5 trays of hantaran into the girl's house. I was once again a hantaran carrier and once again carrying a tray of cupcakes!

Our sweaty selves after the ceremony. Can't wait for the big day although it's going to be sometime late next year!

This is not the end of the wedding frenzy. I've got to attend a few more weddings next week.

Gosh I'm exhausted.

xmas cookies

2008-12-15T22:36:00.004+08:00

Ever since I promised my colleague that I would make gingerbread man cookies for her Xmas dinner, I have been very interested in any gingerbread cookies / Xmas cookies I lay my eyes on. Last Sunday, I visited Cake Sense to commit some sinful crime and ended up getting a pair of cookies displayed below.

The glossy gingerbread men were cute all right but it didn't taste so great. So I distributed them to my younger siblings. Heh.

Today, one of my other colleagues was giving out Xmas treats in the department. There were beautiful and colourful cupcakes and cookies and since the cookies were nicely wrapped, I grabbed one of them. All the treats looked so gorgeous no body wanted to eat them! I finally did once I showed the cookie to my mom to admire. Hm, nothing great on the taste.

I still love my gingerbread people ;)

121208 & 131208

2008-12-13T18:35:00.004+08:00

Yes. Be very surprised that I'm writing again.

On Friday night, I headed to Kampung Pengantin for Naw's sister's wedding and that was the beginning of a wedding frenzy month. Naw used to be one of my homies in Edinburgh and I hadn't seen her since I graduated last year. She emailed me on one of the days earlier this week, surprising me with her return for her eldest sister's wedding. And I was very honoured to be invited.

I still am horrible at taking pictures. The above picture was the clearest picture I took last night of the newlyweds. Great couple, perfect wedding. I wish them all the best and may their marriage last forever :)

Naw looked as marvelous as ever. Glad to have seen her again after a long one and a half years. I wonder when the complete set of Marchmont Girls are going to reunite. I have a hunch at it's going to be when a child (or more) is/are in the picture. OMG. Anyway, last night was lovely and thanks again for the invite!

I reached home last night around 11 pm and only ended the night at 1 am. Four hours later after an unpleasant sleep (no thanks to this crazy cough), I was getting ready for a charity run at the Lake Garden in town. It was the most dramatic 5 am I have ever had. Don't ask me how but I lost my LAST left contact lense while I was dressing up. You have no idea how many times I swore this morning and how frustrated I was. After a deep breath, I told myself that I still have to run regardless being partially blind.

Heh. A minute into the run, I confirmed that I am so unfit. Mind you, it was a 5 km run. After much struggle, I completed the run in forty minutes. It's pathetic. I need to buck up.

These are my team members at work. All of us participated expect for our dear team leader who couldn't make for the run. Although this activity was very exhausting, we all did have fun. I walked down memory lane this morning as this reminded me of the charity runs I joined in my final university year.

bijou

2008-10-29T23:55:00.003+08:00

"Celery Apple Mint Juice. Mmmm.. that sounds nice! I'll have that one please."

5 minutes later, the order that my sister placed arrived at our table. A sickening green coloured drink was put down in front of her.

Whilst I was enjoying my iced mocha which was brilliantly mixed, she shrieked, "Blegh, it's disgusting." Haah, so much of living like the girls in SATC.

We will continue wishing that some handsome rich eligible bachelors would approach us there one day and offer us a nice apartment in Mont Kiara, amongst others. :D

that ring

2008-10-26T14:32:00.003+08:00

"You're very kinky, aren't you?"

The nurse in the clinic asked me when she was prepping me for an abdominal ultrasound test. I probably had blushed when she asked me that and I was surprised at her to think that having a navel piercing makes a person kinky.

Oh dear. She's going to have a heart attack when she finds out what a real kinky person would do.

-

2008-10-22T23:16:00.002+08:00

"Your review should actually be in 2 pages. Currently you guys are writing a thesis each month."

This was mentioned to us for writing information which has been provided repeatedly on each annual review. It was found redundant, yet we still do it for the sake of practising what is already done previously.

"Oh he makes me dizzy."

I'm very frustrated.

numero dos

2008-10-19T22:35:00.004+08:00

Actually I have millions of pictures I want to share especially in Facebook but since FB is being such a slow snail at the moment, I thought why not post some up in this soon-to-be-dead-if-I-don't-update blog of mine.

Today is the launching of Departure Lounge outlet number 2. It was such a wonderful opening event I personally thought. The cafe is very nicely designed, we all loved it so much. Congratulations to the management team for your new born baby :)

today

2008-10-10T00:10:00.000+08:00

..is one rough day. I want to run as fast as I can to a place real far from here. I want to be in The Meadows like it is on a summer day.

i will miss white rabbit candy

2008-09-23T23:18:00.002+08:00

If you keep on blinking, the next thing you know it's Eid once again. Time definitely flies without you noticing it. This time last year I was still a free bird, enjoying a life with not many commitments except that of to the family.

A year after, at times I do wish I was still a fresh graduate with many options to consider. Truthfully I think I have lost all the options I once had, now only to avail myself to this industry I used to always dream being part of. It is really not glamorous, nor it is satisfying and all that. It is actually a taxing job one could ever have.

I know I just came back from a vacation but I need another one some time in the near future! I'm going out of my mind.

EEE reunion

2008-09-21T13:25:00.006+08:00

It had been many many months since these three once-were-EEE-students hang out together. The last time was probably at King's Buildings, the far-from-happening place in the compound of University of Edinburgh. Since Mr Foote was around the vicinity of the wonderful city of Kuala Lumpur, we took this opportunity to reunite to do crazy things such as drinking teh tarik, playing tenpin bowling and embarassing myself at playing pool.

Next reunion - London 2012 perhaps? I think I should be able to brush up my pool skills in 4 years :)

pad thai galore

2008-09-01T21:28:00.014+08:00

After being stranded in a foreign land with no plans, no money and no idea what's going to happen the next day, I'm finally back home enjoying my own bed and pillows, mom's cooking, and my brand new car. Oh by the way, my car was partially submerged in the KL flash flood 2 weeks ago and it was in pretty bad condition.

As a birthday gift to myself, I went for a holiday in Krabi, Thailand, last week. The excitement was a wee wild as it was my first time stepping on Thai land. Before this, all I knew about the country were Thai Baht, Pad Thai, ladyboys and elephants.

Day 1 - Since our flight was delayed (very typical of Air Asia), we arrived at Ao Nang little town in Krabi in the evening. I was overwhelmed by the friendliness of the Thais around the area. They're all so petite, humble and very welcoming. I *heart* Thai people!

Day 2 - Thought of being adventurous so we decided to take up the Kayaking + Elephant trekking package. To think about it, I'd never wanted to go kayaking and now I had already done it!

This is the starting point of our kayak adventure. The total distance we kayaked was approximately 4 kilometers. That's a long way. But we all knew, even the kayak guide, that women's job when it comes to kayaking is to look pretty and behave like princesses. That's what I did most of the time except for the last stretch of the race where I paddled so hard to be numero uno to reach the finish line!

There she was - the princess and her all-that warrior :) Here we just passed a cave where many dead bodies were placed once upon a time. That's according to the legend. To find out how true it is, I guess anybody is welcomed to spend the night in there.

The monkey spot! Look harder into the picture. There is actually a monkey sitting on that wooden stick next to me. We stopped here to feed pineapple skin to the monkeys. I nearly got attacked by an angry monkey for picking up a piece of the pineapple skin from the ground. Dude, I wasn't going to steal your food away from you.

I touched a starfish!!!! Amazing isn't it? We saw lotsa crabs and starfishes on the wide piece of sand in the middle of the ocean. The day was full of human + animal interaction!

Elephants are my favourite animal right now! Just before our ride on this cutie pie, the tour guide pointed to this elephant and warned us that he's a little rebelious and likes to wander around on its own and disregard his fellow troop. The guide was all right. We were rather unlucky to be riding this elephant. But he wasn't that bad.. he pees like a leaked water tank and poops anywhere he wants. I love him to bits though.

Day 3 - Relaxing day after the tiring activities on the previous day. Walked along Ao Nang beach and bumped into a lady, amongst many, who loved saying "Thai Massaaaage?". She offered us a slice of pineapple and informed us what's on her menu. I was making small talk with her when I asked, "I see there are a lot of pineapples here. Where can I get the whole fruit?"

She responded, "I gib you for free. Come to my massage place at number eleben". Good marketing strategy. I ended up spending some 3 hours at number 11.

One full body massage with milk. One facial massage with aloevera. And a free manicure!

That night we wandered around and bumped into our old time friend - Ronald. Sawadee ka!

Day 4 - Phi Phi Island trip! There are so many photos, I don't even know which to put up.

This isn't THE Phi Phi Island. It's actually called the Bamboo Bay. To be frank, all the bays and islands we visited on this day were breathtaking. The water was green and the sand was soft. Everybody enjoyed the sea looking at fishes swimming around them and all aimed to be tanned.

Snorkeling with sea creatures! I fed bread to some school of fish and they sure did love it. I didn't get sun burnt on my body. Only my scalp and it hurts real bad :'(

Day 5 - Check out day. NOT. Airport was closed due to some anti government demonstration. They ain't going to let any tourist go unless Samak, the Thai PM, steps down. We had no choice but to pay for another night in our hotel. Also realised that I only had less than 200 Baht to survive with. Wished that airport would reopen soon.

Day 6 - Still in Krabi. Depended on cheap road stalls for food.

My favourite portable food stall which serves the best Pad Thai in Ao Nang. Only costs 35 Baht!

Fell in love with Chocolate + Banana Pancake. It reminded me of crepe with banana and nutella from the German market in Edinburgh. It only took 30 Baht to make me happy ;)

Day 7 - Krabi airport resumed its operation, although Samak is still PM! We dared not say anything until we were on the aircraft. Thankfully we were only trapped in Krabi for no longer than 2 days. Phew.

So there... In conclusion, the trip was the craziest I have had to date. I'm all tanned now and my body itches like hell! I have panda eyes no thanks to being glamourous for wearing shades in the hot sun.

God knows when my next post will be. Khob Kun Ka!

woohoo

2008-08-08T00:15:00.000+08:00

I'm crazily addicted to my mobile phone. I should really head to bed now considering I have another boring day at work tomorrow. Til I update again. Ciao!

bugs

2008-07-23T23:01:00.001+08:00

It's funny that, when my iPod went kaput, I feel like this is the end of my life.

Damn you, technology.

brader

2008-07-12T23:56:00.000+08:00

Tonight, I finally bumped into the brother I always am mistaken to have - Sean Ghazi. He's a decent looking lad - a little too quiet though. I spotted him from far and I right away thought of what I could say to him if he approached me. He did in the end, but what I rehearsed didn't come out my mouth.

I'm exhausted. I have so much to work on this weekend. Wouldn't it be wonderful if there are more hours in a day?

fashionista

2008-07-02T22:28:00.004+08:00

I watched The Devil wears Prada last night and gosh, I think it was a fantastic film. Anne Hathaway was as pretty as Snow White and don't let me start on that she was wearing. Sometimes I wished I was working in that kind of line instead of being in the corporate field.

Not only did I love the fashion side of the film, I did too love the storyline about Andy's relationship with her family, friends and her significant other. It could soooo be related to everybody especially those who are just at the starting line of their career path. Sometimes plans with our loved ones have to be cancelled in order to meet our work commitments. Our personality apparently changes once we are with a job hence making us become someone unlike ourselves. Working towards our ultimate dream is most definitely important, but how much could we actually put our loved ones aside? Honestly, I am still stuck in this dilemma of trying to balance between work and personal issues.

OK deep thoughts aside.

Starbucks retrenchment! Woo... News has it that Starbucks is closing some 600 outlets in the US. That's one huge figure - a venti frappuproblem some may say. The amount of Starbucks cafes in America is just too many that every 10 meters you walk, you happen to see one outlet. This is according to my source and I don't entirely know how true this is (maybe someone can clarify?). If this one strong coffee chain can go for an extreme cost cutting measure during the current economy crisis, it must be a real challenge for the small enterprises in the US. Well hopefully it won't affect Malaysia as bad as it hits the States.

OK this is too much work related.

To sum it up, personal life and work issues must be balanced.

happy ending

2008-06-28T16:53:00.003+08:00

Friday night ended really well with a happy ending. Beauty and the Beast musical entertained us so much that we wished we were Belle in so many ways.

Some points to share:-

Those who sit on the far left in the hall will most likely unable to see some scenes.
Belle was beautiful all right, although she was a little chubby.
The beast was erm, a little silly, I thought. He wasn't scary as the his cartoon self.
Lumière was my favourite character in the musical. One cheeky candlestick.
The charming one has to be Gaston.
Fifi, the featherduster was one sexy lady with wonderful feather skirt and has an accent I wish I had.
Our Malaysian Chip had the greatest applause although his lines were very limited.

The thing about watching musical is that, the first scene of ANY musical would most likely be a bit dull and you would start doubting the show and think of your money spent for the tickets. That was the case for all the musicals I have watched so far. But the finale would be fantastic - so great until you can't stop smiling. I have not seen a crappy musical and I hope I will never see one.

papers

2008-06-24T20:49:00.002+08:00

All right... I'm writing this while I count the amount of pills I have to take in the next minute.

I don't know about your offices, but in mine there seems to be a newspaper thief in the department. Although The Sun newspapers are free, I would appreciate it if people tell me when they want to borrow it. What more NST and The Star newspapers which aren't free. Last Friday, my NST I placed on my table was missing.

So I went around asking and complaining to people about my missing newspaper. They claimed they didn't take it, so I gave up in the end.

After 2 days on MC, I opened up my briefcase to check on my diary and there it was, my missing NST!! Haha, I feel like such an idiot thinking people at work actually stole my newspaper. They might take it without my permission, but eventually they'll inform me. Silly me.

Argh, cronic cough. Need to take my cough medicine and bet you in 5 minutes I'll be on my pillow.

happy thoughts

2008-06-22T11:59:00.005+08:00

JAYGEE - the one who loves to explore. Hmm don't see that happening lately.

Caught a cold this weekend so I have been a little bit off the mood. My mind is still running but the bed is my best friend. Me no likey being sicko.

Celebrated one of the G girls' birthday. The chatterbox turned 14 and will forever behave like a 7 year old.

Sausage roll, whatever happened to our newly implemented tradition of sending birthday cards? Give me your address and expect one from me in 4 weeks time. And the next 4 weeks I will expect one from you.

Together with this. Woohoooo!

yikes

2008-06-04T22:59:00.003+08:00

This is the perfect reason why I should bring my camera wherever I go.

Petrol price hike.

Gosh how I wished I had my camera when I was driving back from work. I passed so many petrol stations and ooooh, the queues leading to them were just so crazy! Hence causing a massive traffic congestion.

As you all have already known, the petrol price will increase by 78 sen effective midnight, from RM1.92 to RM2.70 per litre. That's going to make a big impact on my monthly budget and it includes sacrificing many of my favourite unnecessary things.

Anyway..

I attended an award ceremony last night to celebrate some outstanding students sponsored by the organisation who sponsored my tertiary education. It was kinda silly for them to only invite the awardee without any guests allowed. So there I was, going to a function with no one I knew and had no idea what the agenda was like. Perfect moment to just go with the flow.

I couldn't help but notice that when Malaysians give a speech, the bit where the speaker addresses his audience is just neverending. I wished they say "Ladies and gentlemen" instead. Imagine that the speech alone took an hour of the night.

Eventually, I was on the stage shaking hands with the wife of some minister. Got my cert and a mystery gift which ended up being a neat looking watch! Happy me.

Conclusion, petrol price will rise. At midnight.

inspire me

2008-06-03T11:21:00.002+08:00

People wonder why haven't I been writing lately
I wonder hmm do people still read my ramblings?
Thing is, as much as I want to write again
I just cannot find the time to think and start writing
Furthermore, I don't have much of an interesting thing to write on
It kinda blows
Cause I want to write
To let all my thoughts out
To entertain those who think I am entertaining
And to let me look back again and say hey, I'm pretty fun (or funny)
I need inspiration
A whole lot of them

still around

2008-05-23T23:40:00.003+08:00

Yeah, I am the above.

Although I am suffering from severe exhaustion.

Travelling seems to be the key word this month.

Doesn't really help when e-money has just been granted.

Actually am feeling rather contented.

:)

retreat once again!

2008-05-05T21:52:00.000+08:00

I have spots on my wrists as a result of playing beach volleyball yesterday morning. It was a short 10 minutes game for me because I couldn't stand the 11 o'clock heat. I was literally showering in my own sweat. It wasn't sexy.

I sacrificed my weekend for a 'free holiday' a.k.a. company retreat, yet again. This time it's a little different as the crowd was smaller and the people who attended were more familiar to me. I guess it was also better because I had no pressure to sound smart (didn't have to emcee this time!).

While waiting for all to arrive and this includes the VIPs such as the Head of Departments and of course our dearly young and handsome CEO. That was my original seat before we were shuffled around. I ended up sitting right in front of the mic-stand. So I could see all the freckles the CEO has on his face. Woot woot.

Together we CAN make it! This was the exact spot where all the CBKians performed 2 songs for all the audience. The performance was real funny considering that we didn't have proper practice for it. I hope no one took a video of the performance because its something that I don't want to hear again.

Guoman Beach - my room was overlooking the beach and golf course. The view was breathtaking. However the weather was a bit too hot that weekend.

Guoman Beach at sunset. And that was the pool I kept wishing to jump into. I didn't because I don't have the proper attire and I ... erm.. can't swim.

Gala Dinner food feaaaaaaaaast! The stupidly-themed 'Sports Night' Gala Dinner was a blast with great variety of food and many crazy headed drunken men. I was pleased that many knew my name and who I was. And ooh, I was nominated for best dressed thank you very much! Just so you know, I didn't wear anything fantastic. Don't ask me why I was up on the runway parading my outfit.

There! What was I wearing? I don't know but supposedly a tennis attire. Haha. So that got me nominated as one of the best dressed. Those things in my hands were prizes from the activities we had earlier that day. Yippee!

Overall the retreat was fun. Guess it was an opportunity to bond a little closer to the people I work with.

x

2008-05-01T23:25:00.004+08:00

OK where do I start?

Just got back from the most expensive dinner to date. I'm due to pay RM150ish for an Italian dinner we had to celebrate my boss' birthday and presents we bought for him. The dishes were all right and the ambience was kinda cosy. It's just those bottles of wine that made my pocket burn a little too much.

Oh by the way, Happy Labour Day to all the pekerja buruh from all over the world. As usual, when it comes to my day off work, mornings don't exist. Today was really easy going, although the only challenge I had was to search for a sports outfit for this weekend. I don't think I have succeeded so I'm just going to turn up with whatever I could come out with tomorrow night.

I'm lazy to go to work tomorrow as it would be a Friday and I find it a little pointless to get the momentum going when the weekend is just the next day. I wish I could go to the office in my casual wear i.e. shorts and a tee. They really should make Fridays as Casual day. I think it would somehow motivate employees to go to work on the last work day of the week.

Bah.

ouch

2008-04-28T20:20:00.001+08:00

Major headache

Sore tonsils

Chest pain

:(

memory lane

2008-04-27T14:54:00.003+08:00

After last night's clubbing session to celebrate my boss' birthday, I realised that I don't utilise my beloved camera anymore. I really wish to snap more photos than I currently am but there's never an opportunity to do it.

Since I've got nothing planned on this heaty Sunday, I decided to check out the photos I have taken since I was in first year uni. That's 5 years ago.

In that half a decade, I have had many hairstyles. There were times when my hair was toooooo long where I could see my splitends from a distance. There were times I was sorta blonde - quoting my uncles, "Pergi mandi air karat ke?"

There were also times when my friends from school visited me all the way in the land of William Wallace. Family trips, holidays of the world, and surprisingly horrifying gazillion of food pictures.

I browsed through thousands of pictures but I only have one favourite picture.....

BWAAAAAAAAAHAHAHHAHAHHAHAHAHHAHA! Oh God, whatever happened to these cute little creatures?

check

2008-04-23T09:11:00.003+08:00

I'm on MC today because I woke up this morning with a stomach cramp at which when I was in the bathroom, I couldn't stand up straight. I was contemplating the whole time I was getting ready whether or not I should head to work or to the clinic. I settled with the latter and soon the doctor told me I was having gastric pain. It's actually not a surprise for me as I know for a fact that I eat untimely.

I came back home, forced myself to have breakfast and still the pain doesn't go away. So I thought of checking on other possible causes of stomach pain online. To my surprise, I realised that I don't know much about the human anatomy. I guess I didn't take much opportunity of learning it when I lived with medical students for that 2 years of my uni life.

Anyway, I thought this is really useful especially for those who often suffer from abdominal pain.

I've finally gone to the doctors and checked the pain out. I know it has been months but I did it, didn't I? x

remove

2008-04-19T22:51:00.005+08:00

I think I want to remove my tonsils as they hurt real bad once every fortnight. I heard some people get rid of them and they still live like regular human beings, so I don't think cutting them off is such a big of a deal.

I was shocked to see my left hand the morning after I did the noble thing. I couldn't recognise my left arm - it was disgusting. Now it's looking more sickening as the colour is starting to turn a little off.

Anyway, ugly thing aside. I met up with a whole lot of familiar faces last night and it was such an excitement. We catched up with work, friends, families and memories throughout our Italian dinner. While we were having our feast, the mosquitoes too, were having a party underneath the table we were seated at. And I felt as if my legs were the main dish.

Now I'm thinking, maybe my tonsils hurt because I scream so much at my hard-to-control siblings who are driving me up the wall. Or is it because I had soo much to eat these couple of days? Some food allergies I'm not aware of, perhaps?

first and last

2008-04-17T20:08:00.003+08:00

I dreaded to go to the office this morning as I wished I could sleep a little more longer. Traffic to work didn't really help my situation then - it was already jammed in my neighbourhood itself.

Once I reached the office, I began to look at my ancient computer. It was then I realised that something was happening at the Penthouse. I couldn't care less at the event until my colleagues said they were going to check it out.

I tagged along and the next thing I knew, I was filling up a form for blood donation. I tried donating blood when I was in college but it didn't happen as I was only 2 months under the age limit. Plus I don't have a good record with needles and blood. I just hate them.

After spending 5 hours considering of whether or not I should torture myself with the pain, I decided to conquer my fear of needle (and blood). So I waited on the chair for a nurse to attend to me. One nurse came and prepared me for the donation. She said my veins were small (I've heard this before) and it was going to be a challenge for her to poke the needle in. I squeezed my eyes shut and knocked my knuckle on my lap repetitively to distract myself from what the nurse was going to do.

The veins in my left hand were very stubborn as they kept running away from the needle. The nurse suggested trying my right hand instead. I started panicking. I had to go through that all over again.

My right hand did it. I donated a pint of type O blood to the National Blood Centre. That was it. I'm not going to do it again.

Now my arms are in pain. But I have so much typing to do later. It's going to be one painful long night.

off the market

2008-04-14T23:38:00.002+08:00

OK fine, I have gone for a drastic change where I don't look like I was in the picture I had posted up yesterday. I got to say, most prefer how I looked before the change although some envy my brave transition. If you ask me, I'm comfortable with the new look and I enjoy looking like I'm still in primary school.

My boss has mistaken me for a new staff and then has noticed and successfully read my fashion statement of wanting a replacement for my ancient outdated computer. Today, he offered me a new computer and at the same time hinted that I need to get rid of the vision aid that I wear. I only smiled at that middle aged man.

Life, these days, has been a little too crazy.

look at these sexy people

2008-04-13T21:04:00.004+08:00

This was one of the last pictures we took before our confirmation as fully fledged employees. I thought we looked amazingly professional :)

all about me

2008-04-03T22:56:00.002+08:00

Alrighty then. I am now a permanent employer of the bank and should be a little more richer. Funnily I feel broke as only 2 days after receiving my paycheck, I have withdrawn half of it. Ouch.

Job assignments at work have been more challenging than usual. I like the responsibilities, however it is sometimes just too much to handle. As my technical knowledge is still not very strong, I find it difficult to comprehend especially when I know that some parties are relying on me to get their funds. It's horrifying.

Gym is fun though. But overdoing it makes me want to puke my insides out. Not to forget the painful backache. Is it disgusting to say that I love to sweat? I just do. Makes me feel healthy. Some think I'm a gym addict. I think they are right.

Catching up with one of my homies back then brought so much memories of living abroad. We exchanged updates and I'm happy to say that my updates this time around are looking very positive. I think I'm pretty contented with some issues in my life although I'm still trying very hard to become a better individual.

ginger + cinnamon

2008-03-30T21:55:00.005+08:00

Diets are indeed sad but it plays a big role if I want to be skeleton thin.

Finally I got to make my own gingerbread cookies after a long time considering whether I should. One day my younger siblings came back with some birthday party packs and a gingerbread man was in each packet. That's where I got my inspiration from. So I decided that I should spend my Saturday baking....

Gosh it wasn't an easy task. Mixing the ingredients was a piece of cake but shaping these people was one hell of a difficult task. My dough was very soft so everytime a man or lady was shaped, I had to be really careful when picking it up else it'd get misshaped and wouldn't look like people anymore. However after 4 hours, 40 gingerbread people were baked and thankfully were very delicious.

A day later, all gingerbread people are happily in everyone's stomach. It's heartbreaking to see how fast the cookies go down our throats when it took hours to make them. Nevertheless, I'm happy that I baked it.

groovy

2008-03-25T23:19:00.001+08:00

One thing that kept me going today was the fact that I had a dance class early in the night. Besides that, the day was pretty dreadful with company which I think I no longer enjoy spending my time with. It didn't help when this fever of mine still does not want to subside after 3 days.

I think I'm slowly growing a right leg to replace my extra left leg. I enjoy more of my dance classes now that I can keep up with the steps. I totally adore the dance instructor who I thought has some kinda fancy accent. Because he was sort of cool, I forgive him for wearing that tacky and cheesy LED belt while conducting the class.

All these remind me of my former aerobic instructor named Carlos who I often bumped into on St James Street. I always thought he wasn't straight but everytime I saw him on the street, he was always hand-in-hand with some attractive ladies. One lucky man that guy was.

I wish to have a busy schedule like I had this time exactly last year. I want to be occupied with many dance practices for big events. I want to get back the fun in me.

saved by the bell

2008-03-24T22:02:00.002+08:00

I thought after the long 4 days weekend, I would be all geared up for work today. Unfortunately I was caught with a fever which I think is spreading around real quickly.

After my one-to-one session with HR earlier in the afternoon, I felt demotivated to work. The clock was ticking very slowly and by the time it was half past five, the angry clouds came and darkened the city centre. Then it started pouring and everyone was trapped in the building. Perfect.. just when I wanted to leave badly, it rained like nobody's business.

Suddenly...

"Attention.. attention to all staffs. The underground gate is closing. Please remove all cars as water level is rising.."

Woohoo! That was my cue to leave. I was actually hoping for the whole building to black out but this was good enough. So I left the office just to be stuck in the traffic jam.

take it slow

2008-03-15T23:15:00.000+08:00

I'm dreading the days to come. There is no such thing that I look forward to anymore and I think I know why. I'm slowing transforming to somebody I'm not.

Lately I often think about my study days, and oh boy don't I miss them. I miss the flexible hours and the freedom to wear anything. I miss the walks around the city and in the parks envying lovers holding hands and enjoying each other's company. I miss talking to friendly strangers about the news and current happenings. I miss the feeling of not having to worry about anything.

I feel like sobbing my eyes out for no particular reason just to let go of my frustrations. I am already halfway through isolating myself. This is perhaps healthy for me as I need some space to evaluate my future.

men say the darnest things

2008-02-25T22:59:00.006+08:00

Why oh why do I have to meet such men who seriously do not know what NOT to say to a woman?

dear kids

2008-02-24T20:22:00.001+08:00

Please eat more.

to hold self together

2008-02-20T23:32:00.001+08:00

When the going gets tough, the tough get going.

Looking at pictures helps.

Coffee in the morning at FRIM

Men and sampan at Batu Ferringhi Beach, Penang

Book review at Border's Starbucks, Berjaya Time Square

When we don't work hard, we play hard. Singing BSB perhaps? At Neway Berjaya Time Square

Organisers in beautiful costumes during the CNY Dinner 2008

2 rats at the end of the auspicious event

Valentine's dinner with Team Happening - Izzi Northpoint, Midvalley

with you

2008-02-10T15:14:00.000+08:00

I've been listening to Chris Brown's With You repetitively these days and I've made some changes to the song. It goes:

Cause if I've got shoes,
I don't need money,
I don't need cars,
Babe you're my heart.

I know it doesn't make sense, but whatever makes me happy right? This keeps running in my head so I thought maybe I should go shoe shopping on Facebook. Guess what I found?

The exact shoes I bought last week except that mine are gorgeously pinkish purple.

I want to go to Fashion week.

Penang 08

2008-02-03T22:22:00.000+08:00

Moi is back. Having a 3 day weekend was such a luxury. As we enter adulthood, we seldom get days off. So once the opportunity is there, we take it and go to places. This time it's Penang once again with the amazing road runner of mine.

The three of us left KL on Hari Wilayah (Federal Territory Day) for Penang feeling very excited for the road trip. I was kinda worried to be driving because you see, I have never driven my car outside Klang Valley! It was the first time to check the tolerence of the car and hey, I'm back now in KL in one piece and most importantly the car is also back in one piece. So I suppose, the road runner has done me proud and it deserves a pat on its back.

Although, the indicator lights circuit got messed up half way to Penang. All indicating lights - on the speedometer, front and back of the car didn't flash when I put the indicators on. It was a bit frustrating to drive without proper indicator lights and only my passengers and I know how I warned cars when I wanted to switch lanes. But it was all fixed in Penang after I met up with my car-enthusiast uncle.

There we were! Very glad once we reached Penang. That was when the food feast begin. We ate and ate until we felt very guilty on the way back to KL.

We had a lot planned on the next day. First, we stopped by Penang Hill (Bukit Bendera). I was born in Penang and have gone back countless times and yet I have never been to Penang Hill until last Saturday. We took the tram up the hill so that we could enjoy the beautiful view of Penang Island.

After the visit to the hill, we kinda went around the island just to find the right way to my uncle's place. We passed Gelugor, Georgetown, Bayan Lepas and finally I managed to get the bearing right. Got my car fixed there and enjoyed good food my aunt cooked while watching the Amazing Race Asia marathon.

Next stop was the Batu Ferringhi beach. We wanted to relax while reading a book but I ended up getting drenched in sea water. The culprit has to be my little brother, the one and only naughty boy in the family.

I said to him, "Let me take a picture of the sand angel". So he did this when the sun was shining right down on him. At least this time I didn't go to the beach during lunch time! That was one crazy idea.

We planned to chilled along Gurney Drive at night but unfortunately it rained so heavy and we got really soaked! Had dinner at Gurney Plaza and wanted to call it a day after that. But it was still raining and no way were we going to get wet all over again. So we went shopping......

.... and I got these!!!!!!!!!!!! Ooooh.. my best buy to date. Honestly, I seldom do this but they were having half price sale! The perfect souvenirs from Penang :)

pig out

2008-01-30T23:12:00.000+08:00

Tonight I have completely pigged out. I ate everything that was placed on my plate and drank everything that was in my glass. Whether it was beef or chicken, meat or vegetable, soft drinks or iced water. For RM50, I have managed to get myself 5 months pregnant once again.

We had our department's annual dinner at a Brazilian BBQ restaurant somewhere in Damansara Jaya. There were so much food served - unlimited beef, lamb, chicken, fish, prawns, vegetable, breads and soft drinks for all of us bankers. My personal favourite was the garlic bread which was sinfully delicious. It was served from the skewer fresh from the oven. The texture of the bread was so soft that it was melting in my mouth. Pieces of garlic were generously sprinkled on the bread and a little flavour of mayonnaise gave a whole new experience to the taste.

I mingled around with my colleagues, superiors and my big boss discussing every single thing. My big boss brought his nine year old son to the function and ooh what a decent boy he was. After pigging out, I got the opportunity to have a private chat with this little boy who I thought was very smart with his words. At nine, he could explain in detail on how he scored his first goal in his school's football tournament. He also told me that hummingbirds migrate from China to Malaysia during the winter time. I have no clue of the truth behind this statement but I was sure that the whole department were checking out on me when I chit chatted with the big boss' son! Heh.

All in all, I think my batchmates and I have done a good job in organising this event. Food was good, ambience was nice and cozy, and everyone was happy.

Pleasurable Pain?

2008-01-27T23:50:00.000+08:00

Everytime I say those 2 words out, I think of a friend who said falling while ice skating is some sort of a pleasurable pain. Since then, I have discovered what contributes to my pleasurable pain and it isn't the naughty-naughty one.

I went to the gym yesterday after two weeks and today I suffer from a severe body ache. Usually I would love the body pain I get after working out but this time it is just too much. I woke up this morning like a log - I couldn't move myself. So I was treated with a full body massage and let me tell you, it ain't pretty. If I have recovered from being voiceless, I would screamed all that pain out.

Last night I went to one of the most breathtaking spot in KL. The view was beautiful, never knew such place exists. Up at the top, all the problems seem so far away.

KL skyline during sunset

KL skyline at night

Now the worries return and maybe you're right. Life is unfair.

sexy week

2008-01-25T22:22:00.000+08:00

Now there are 2 reasons why I shouldn't be a singer. The first reason is obviously because I would either crack the windows and glasses or make the rain fall everytime I sing. Secondly, I lose my voice every-so-frequently so imagine if I have gigs, I would have to keep postponing them. And fans don't like that. Anyway, it doesn't matter because I'm not a singer.

I did a personality test today. The task was to draw a pig and the child in me came out with this:-

Basically my personality was described based on the way I have drawn my piggy picture.

Little Miss Piglet was drawn on the top of the piece of A4 paper and it means that I'm a positive and optimistic person.
She was faced to the front and it makes me a direct, a straight-to-the-point person also a devil's advocate.
I drew the piggy not in detail (just because I'm a crappy artist*). It shows that I'm a risk taker and a person full of emotions.
Like all pigs should have, my oinker has 4 legs. It says I am secured, stubborn and I stick to my ideals.
The ears were medium sized. A good listener.
Finally the medium tail length describes that I have a ehem ehem ehem ehemmm (which is eff-ing bullshit).

The result is partially true . Nothing to be taken seriously as it was just one test.

Here is a complete different story. When I say DRAWER, what do you think of? Chest of drawers? I was typing this* and I nearly typed 'just because I'm a crappy drawer'. I giggled at myself thinking what a stupid this to say.

It reminds me of what my colleague has said earlier today. "My father owns a printing shop. He's a PRINTER". Everyone laughed at him. Even I did.

I checked on the dictionary. Drawer and printer were used in the right context. Both sentences were valid.

Although I am unsure whether COOKER can also mean a person who cooks. It is definitely an electrical appliance which cooks our food. I need to find someone who can clarify it for me.

on going

2008-01-23T22:47:00.000+08:00

These overwhelming emotions are not going no where this week. I predicted this right after the news of Heath Ledger's passing. Such a waste of talent. I mourn with the others.

I have only received this tag moments ago and it should be done probably in the first week of the new year. I suppose it's not wrong to only do it now as it gives me time to have a taste of 2008 and to see whether or not it is going to treat me better this year. So far it has been rather disappointing but not to the extent that I need to start sobbing.

Lets go back to the past....

1. What did you do in 2007 that you’d never done before?
I got my first degree with a first class with cherry on top.

2. Did you keep your new year’s resolutions, and will you make more for next year?
Let me rephrase the question. Did I keep my new year's resolutions and have I made more this year? Answer is, I can never remember my new year's resolutions at the end of the year and I think I have made some for this year and the years to come. Am going to stick to the same resolutions from now on.

3. Did anyone close to you give birth?
No but somebody got preggers.

4. Did anyone close to you die?
No.. but I don't have to be close to someone to feel sad of his passing.

5. What countries did you visit?
EDI-KUL-SWK-SBH-KUL-LDN-EDI-MAN-LDN-KUL?

6. What would you like to have in 2008 that you lacked in 2007?
A lot of TLC and xoxo.

7. What dates from 2007 will remain etched upon your memory, and why?
26th June 2007 for making my parents proud of my academic achievement.

8. What was your biggest achievement of the year?
To get myself a job from my own hardwork. No recommendations.

9. What was your biggest failure?
I failed to figure out what I really want to do with my life.

10. Did you suffer illness or injury?
Where do I start? From high fever to laringitis to backache to stomachache to headache to jelly legs to swollen toes?

11. What was the best thing you bought?
I have bought so many things but I don't know what is the best. I know what will be the best thing TO BUY --- "red classy f-me shoes".

12. Whose behavior merited celebration?
Can we celebrate me? Please?

13. Whose behavior made you appalled and depressed?
Somebody I nicknamed Cookie with a P in front.

14. Where did most of your money go?
Aha, my favourite question! Food, entertainment and clothes.

15. What did you get really, really, really excited about?
My first hafla where I performed my belly dance debut.

16. What song will always remind you of 2007?
High School Musical's Something New. It feels so right to be here with you.

17. Compared to this time last year, are you: a) happier or sadder? b) thinner or fatter? c) richer or poorer?
Sadder, thinner and poorer. OMG, I sound like a need to go to rehab.

18. What do you wish you’d done more of?
Socialising, mingling, networking.. whatever you call it.

19. What do you wish you’d done less of?
Complaining.

20. How did you spend Christmas?
I honestly cannot remember. Oh, I remember getting really pissed off.

21. Did you fall in love in 2007?
With a place on the East side.

22. What was your favorite TV program?
Save the cheerleader, save the world. Heroes!

23. Do you hate anyone now that you didn’t hate this time last year?
I don't hate people, I remember telling you this.

24. What was the best book you read?
Heat magazines? Hahahha, oh how I miss them...

25. What was your greatest musical discovery?
That I love to dance even when I have 2 left legs.

26. What did you want and get?
There were a lot of things I wanted and got. Marathon, dance, graduate, hike up a mountain, job, and the list goes on..

27. What did you want and not get?
Aha. I'm confused with my situation in this area.

28. What was your favorite film this year?
Knocked up. Hairspray.

29. What did you do on your birthday and how old were you?
I worked, had dinner and watched my loverboy - Hugh Grant. 21.

30. What one thing would have made your year immeasurably more satisfying?
If someone had said something to me before I left.

31. How would you describe your personal fashion concept in 2007?
Fusion. A mixture of a geeky engineering student to a classy profesionalist.

32. What kept you sane?
Music.

33. Which celebrity/public figure did you envy the most?
Suri Cruise.

34. What political issue stirred you the most?
The Ops-effing-bersih. Leave the roads alone!

35. Who did you miss?
Nobody in particular. This amazes me.

36. Who was the best new person you met?
I know the best old friend who I recently met.

37. Tell us a valuable life lesson you learned in 2007.
If you put your head to it, you can definitely do it.

emotions gone wild

2008-01-23T01:48:00.000+08:00

Okay, where do I start? So much has been happening since I left to the UK a week ago. Don't get me wrong, I'm still here in KL working my ass off and trying to be happy with my career plan. I returned to Edinburgh only for a short visit to wrap up my life over there.

Edinburgh Waverley Train Station. My Favourite Picture-taking Spot

It felt good to return to a place where you are very familiar with eventhough the weather was a bit too cold for me who was used to the tropical weather. I managed to catch a cold while I was there because of multiple reasons - the drastic weather change, jetlag, killer packings, midnight gossips, and food & beverage consumption. By the third day since I arrived, I was too knackered to open my eyes. However, things needed to be settled so I had to continue the journey.

My final smile for Electrrrrrronics!

Went to Manchester for a night just to refresh my memory of the wet and gloomy place. My sister was sweet enough to cook a marvelous dinner the day I arrived. It was delicious all right, although the portion was a bit too much for me. Still yummy!

Anyway, I have to apologise to 2 of my dearest friends who I did not manage to meet. Miss Bath, I'm sorry I didn't drop by or even call. Everything was so hectic, I felt as if I didn't have time to catch my breath. I hope your exams are doing well though.

For Mr Manchester 'Pop-It' crew.... I got your txt but I was already down on the couch. I'm terribly sorry that we didn't have the chance to catch up :( But I'm sure we will have the opportunity to do so when you come back to Malaysia right? Hee hee.

What's left of the Marchmont Girls in Scotland. We missed you Kat.

I had to attend work the day after my arrival in KL. Ended up in a karaoke club later that night with all the other colleagues. As a result, I sound very sexy this morning. Like Macy Gray.

I received yet another wonderful news from my gal pal who is getting engaged very soon. The thing is, I feel that her friends who include me are more excited about the great news more than she is! Our conversation earlier started off from the wedding plans, to children plans, to children going to school, retirement plans... and at the end of the day, I started flipping out to the fact that I'm turning 24 this year. Time to invest on anti-wrinkle face cream.

Hmm, so it's been er.. 7 years since we left school? The horror.

So Wednesday is a public holiday and I'm very glad about the sudden free day! The perfect time to recover the jetlag and heal the major eyebags under my two big eyes.

over

2008-01-16T09:47:00.000+08:00

The nightmare is over. Everything is nicely in the boxes. Hopefully they will arrive home safely.

To be honest, I thought I had more things than I actually did. Packing was simplier but it was still very challenging. The best part is I managed to save up GBP50!

Explored the city last night with a very best friend of mine. It felt so good walking along the same streets all over again. The memories rushed in my mind and they made me smile up until my ears.

Although, we did come across a particular vehicle which I was very familiar with. The feeling of throwing electrical items did cross my mind but I thought it was far too much effort for something which was not worth that much :D

Princes Street, here I come. Credit card, happy swiping :)

Update: Shopping was fun fun fun! Never knew shopping with a guy could be interestingly beneficial. We bitched a lot while shopping and discussed life issues. Nothing like a year ago where we talked so much about triple E. Life's a bliss.

I have missed Edinburgh and I am enjoying every single bit of my trip back here. I will definitely miss this place again and it will always be somewhere deep deep down in my heart. No regrets.

7 months later....

2008-01-13T16:23:00.000+08:00

Finally the moment to relive the past. The experience will no doubt be a difficult one but closure plays an important part in this life of mine.

I am prepared to have sleepless nights and to be surprised with what I had collected in the past 4 years.

Edinburgh, here I return.

welcome 2008!

2008-01-01T00:40:00.000+08:00

Human traffic was bad enough at that hour. Luckily I didn't drive around. Happy New Year!!

goodbye 2007

2007-12-31T22:34:00.000+08:00

It's time to say adios to one roller-coaster-ride year. So much has happened in a very short period of time - successes, failures, ups and downs. Let the past be a lesson for the future undertakings.

Not to be forgotten, the things I am thankful for:

1. To perform dances after so many years
2. To run for marathons, eventhough it's not a complete one
3. To graduate with wonderful results
4. To conquer the highest peak in South East Asia
5. To be part of the most gorgeous wedding
6. To be employed by a foreign financial instutute

What made my day was the following words by my boss:

"Thanks for the cupcakes. They're delicious! I believed you received heaps of compliments already. Wishing you a good year ahead and may your aspirations come through. But your efforts are needed of course!"

holiday spirit

2007-12-25T18:23:00.000+08:00

Yesterday at work, I was thinking for making the typical Xmas meal for today's dinner. I thought since I have the day off, maybe I should be adventurous again and explore my ability to cook (yet again). All the holiday spirit just died away today.

I woke up extremely late when I was supposed to go to the market in the morning to get the ingredients for dinner. That's when I realised I couldn't be bothered anymore. Well, of course there were other reasons too but it is best they're left unsaid.

3 hours I was in the gym for and that's the longest I have been in there. Craved for Departure Lounge's sandwiches after that but ended up in O'Briens instead. All the things I did when I was in Britain are slowly coming back to me.

Let's take this a day at a time.

happy xmas

2007-12-24T21:56:00.001+08:00

I'm at a place where people neither have a wonderful-roasted-turkey-with-stuffings Xmas eve dinner, nor am I at a place where people have family barbeque during Xmas day. Sadly, I am at a place where the road traffics don't move, cars are bumper-to-bumper, and drivers are not ethical.

I miss the romantically decorated Edinburgh city. I miss the German Market where I could enjoy the sinful crepe with nutella. I miss the ferris wheel which would allow me to admire the long stretch of Princes Street from the top of the wheel.

My family and friends must be thankful that I don't celebrate Xmas. Because if I do, these are on my Xmas list:-

1. A spanking new mobile phone (my current mobile phone is slowly falling apart)

2. "A fabulous classy red f*ck-me shoes"

3. That gold sparkling dress

4. A whole box of make up set

5. A silver ball pen with my name engraved on it.

6. A bank account with lots of monies in it.

Sigh. Merry Xmas you all.

favourite quote of the day

2007-12-23T19:41:00.000+08:00

"So.. I heard that girls who go to the gym during the weekends are single."

I didn't know how to respond to that statement right after it was said to me. I managed to blabber something out my mouth. I remember saying "time management" and what-not. I thought that's definitely a no-no to say to a girl. Forbidden, especially to a girl who is actually single.

It is interesting to hear funny pick up lines and how far a guy would go just to get a drink with a girl.

walking down memory lane

2007-12-23T01:14:00.000+08:00

2 days to Xmas and I'm looking forward for another day off work! Eid-ul Adha was just a few days ago and it was celebrated moderately by us. I actually spent most of the day catching up on my beauty sleep. Been staying up late watching McDreamy in action. **droool**

This month is a month of excessive spending. Strangely, it wasn't for my new clothes or new shoes. There were too many gatherings - from farewells to reunions.... and hell they cost quite a damage to my pocket. Looks like I'm going to begin the next year with very little money in my piggy bank.

Although, I am filled with joy and happiness to share some wonderful news from my high school friends. One is engaged, the other too is engaged and one more is having a baby! What an exciting way to end the year.

Not only am I hearing these great news from them, I'm also bumping into familiar faces which I haven't seen in a long 7 years. They all look the same, just like how they were in school uniform. Makes me wonder whether they think the same of me but to be honest, I hope they notice some changes because I think I have grown so much since the last decade.

I have grown to love cupcakes!
(Picture taken at Bijou)

those days

2007-12-16T01:44:00.000+08:00

I'm officially an elderly lady as these days I am lacked of energy and I get tired very easily. I tend to get very forgetful and even a diary doesn't help me remind of my appointments. This isn't a problem those days when my brain memory capacity was still unlimited.

I have never thought that I would get sick of driving. Lately I would rather be on the passenger's seat and enjoy the ride. This feeling is solely contributed by the journey to work which is always packed with cars. I now hate traffic jams with a passion. I don't think anything can beat this hatred I have towards driving. So anyone who wants to meet up with me, please have the courtesy of picking me up :)

It's a special weekend this time because somebody so important to me is in town! One of my best uni mates is in KL this week for a job training and oh wow, I cannot believe I'm seeing her after the uni days in my country. She told me she loves it here as she has me to see, loving the food and of course is impressed with our developed city. All I could do was to feel very flattered...

Uhuh, we were actually in KL when we took the picture. It looks as if we were somewhere in Europe with the lovely Xmas decorations. We had a lot to catch up on and also too much to bitch about ;)

Because I go to the city centre every day lately, I came to realise again that the twin towers are beautiful. I was kinda lucky that the sky was very clear when I took this picture. I still have yet to cross the sky bridge which connects the two towers and I remember that being in my To Do list for 2007. 15 days left to achieve this... it's definitely not going to happen.

I need to think about my new year's resolution.

historic city

2007-12-09T19:31:00.000+08:00

Malacca was beautiful on the day we went there. It didn't rain and it wasn't too hot. As you can see in the picture below, the skyline in Malacca on Saturday was amazing. Cloud patches were everywhere and the we could feel the sea breeze blowing against our bodies.

The drive to the history city didn't take too long although the traffic towards Malacca city centre was heavy. The journey from the exit toll booth towards the city centre was around 10 km ride apart and it felt like there were traffic lights every 200 meters.

What amazed me the most was the trishaws. They were excessively decorated and each trishaw has their own loud music on. Any music you want, you can definitely get it. From Malay ballads, to Malay dangdut, to English rock, and to RnB hits.

There were a million and one kind of musuems too. I was tempted to go to the Stamp Museum mainly because I was very curious how fast I could fall asleep in there.

During the day, we manage to see the A Famosa fort, hiked up St Paul's Hill to see his church, and walked to and fro on Jonker walk. One question: Is Jonker the English name for Hang Jebat, one of the warriors of Malacca? Anybody knows?

Finally before we headed back to KL, this caught my eyes. First I saw it from a distance and I thought my eyes were playing games with me. I went up close and confirmed that it was written London on it.

Malacca is a place worth going even for a day trip. I really recommend it!

sayonara

2007-12-01T20:45:00.000+08:00

It's scary how time flies so quickly. Today is the first day of December and in 30 days we'll be saying goodbye to 2007. An exciting year I have to admit but let's not talk about it until the end of the year.

The last few weeks have been very hectic for me. There was too much going on until I didn't have the opportunity to get enough rest. Because of that, now I'm unwell and I suspect it's the viral fever which is circulating around.

Last weekend I went to Damai Laut, located just across Pangkor Island, for our bank's CBD retreat. I had to forgo my cousin's wedding just because of the compulsory attendence for this business trip. And let's not forget that I was the emcee for this successful event.

To be honest, it's not so much of a retreat. It's all work, work, work for me and my CMT10 colleagues. What made it even worse is that we had to take the old road to reach our destination. Let me tell you something. My team leader isn't a safe driver.

He had a little too much to drink the night before our departure back to KL. No thanks to him, we were short of one driver, so I stepped up and offered to drive. It was a honourable thing to do i.e. to let my other colleagues sleep during the journey back. I conked out right after I reached home.

Last Wednesday before our 4 months attachment, all of us went for a hike up Bukit Melawati. I was already sick by then, but I had missed the first hike last Hari Raya so I told myself I'm not going to miss another one. The hike reminds me of Mount Kinabalu but obviously it wasn't like it. Hiking was fun but later that evening, my body temperature went up, up, up.

After all these outdoor activities, I am now very tanned and my skin is full of mosquito bitings. Don't get me wrong, I still love being outdoors but for the love of God, let me get some rest. Honestly, I don't think I'm going to recover from my fever anytime soon.

all set

2007-11-23T01:04:00.000+08:00

My luggage is all packed.

My script is all written.

My camera is fully charged.

My iPod is updated.

The adventure begins. Lets go soul searching!

one big step

2007-11-21T23:30:00.000+08:00

One who loves to explore. I wrote this in my profile.

Now I've been given a huge challenge. Appointed to be the sole emcee for this weekend's business retreat. And it's a national affair.

I feel nauseous. But maybe this could be an opportunity to see how far I can go.

Wish me luck. A lot of them.

Tribute to Tinkerbell (Part 2)

2007-11-18T12:26:00.000+08:00

It's time again to pay tribute to my beloved Tinkerbell earring which, I still think, is having fun in KK. **This post may contain spoilers**

Last night was the first time I attended a musical in Malaysia. This was the first in KL since Grease which I enjoyed so much in Edinburgh a few years ago. The Lion King in Disneyland Paris was actually the last one I watched but I don't want to count that in because I didn't actually pay and enjoy the show as much.

I went for Peter Pan the Musical and I felt satisfied at the end of the show. Despite the poor turn ups, I thought it was a classy affair as there were a lot of people who dressed up nicely and this included both Malaysians and non-Malaysians. I was seated next to this adorable little girl who dressed up in a fairy suit. She was engrossed with her newly bought t-shirt written 'Lost Girl' and was happily showing it off to me. I entertained her for a bit and I think both of us were pretty pleased after our short conversation.

I have to say I enjoyed this musical more than I did Grease. I was just too impressed with Peter Pan's casts as they were mostly children. They were full of energy and very well rehearsed. Ryutaro Yanagita, the boy who played Peter Pan caught my eyes the most. He was small, had a good and clear speech, and had a superb dancing talent. Our Japanese 13 years old Peter Pan.

Tinkerbell was a Malaysian named Amelia Tripura Hendersan. She was all right but her performance was a little lack of ooomph.

If you plan to watch this musical, bet you would be entertained by the Darling's dog, Nana. The dog was a person dressed in a dog suit and painfully had to crawl his way throughout the 2 hour show. Poor thing but well played.

I was seating upstairs where I could see the disco balls very clearly. Funnily these are the first thing I spotted after sitting down. Been wanting to invest on that and put it in my room. Hehe.

To be honest, after 10 minutes going into the musical, I realised that I've never watched Disney's Peter Pan. I didn't know the storyline hence I didn't know what to expect. Luckly the musical was loud and clear so I managed to roughly understand how the Peter Pan story goes.

The theatre hall was filled with water bubbles coming from the ceiling during the finale of the musical. Disco balls were spinning with lights pointed at them. Lights were reflected on the walls which gave a nice outer-space-like of effect. Reminds me of Ross-Rachel's first night at the museum :)

So guess what my next mission is? To rent Disney's Peter Pan DVD!

sunday morning

2007-11-11T12:23:00.000+08:00

How often do I wake up early on a Sunday morning? Not frequent.

I was up early today so that I could head to the gym after 2 to 3 months not being active in any sports whatsoever. I knew my stamina is deteriorating so I was prepared to feel unhealthy and unfit when I take breaks in between my running session.

Instead of using the treadmill, I joined the 1 hour bodyattack session. It was somewhat like the aerobic class which Mr Carlos conducted when I was in uni. The only difference is that the conductor here (which I forgot to ask of his name) was not as cheeky as Mr Carlos. Hmm, speaking about him makes me realise I kinda miss him.

Anyway, I now still stink from the session this morning. My feet are full of blisters. My stomach is aching like no one's business. And strangely, my toe nails are coming off one by one. Am I lacking of calcium or are my killer heels contributing to this phenomenon?

reunited

2007-11-05T20:53:00.000+08:00

Last week has to be the best week I have had in a very long time. I didn't have to go to the dodgy side of town for the whole week and the best weekend was concluded by our very successful raya open house.

Preparing was definitely a pain but all the hard work was paid off. Everyone got stressed up because the organiser a.k.a. my mother was stressed up. But then again, if she wasn't like that, I don't think the open house would be as great as it turned out to be. Cousins whom I haven't seen in nearly a decade turned up with their own troops. The children were so adorable but it was very tough to get hold on to one.

Funny how I felt like I haven't seen all these cookies and kueh mueh until the day of the open house. Can you believe that I don't even know what cookies my mother made for raya? This is the first time it happens, no thanks to my busy schedule. Anyway, everything was good until the point where you just had too much to eat.

I decorated cupcakes again but this time they look edible. Lol. These cupcakes were the first to finish (we only made a few). They were supposed to be just plain lemon poppyseed cupcakes with cream cheese top. But since I had too much of the fancy cake decorations, I decided to entertain myself making them colourful.

We had so much food, from my mother's cooking to my grandmother's to my cupcakes to my sister's Mac & Cheese and finally to the catered Satay Kajang. These are only some of the delicious food served. The others were Laksa Siam, Nasi Himpit with Kuah Kacang, Pai Ti (Chinese Popiah/spring rolls), and Longan fruits. We currently have so much left overs despite the good turn ups. So guess what we're eating this whole week?

So that's us waiting for the first guest to arrive. I took out my camera tripod for the occassion but never actually used it. Here my mother was probably panicking in the kitchen. Hehe.

Ahaaa, 3 of 4 Marchmont Girls. We finally met up again after graduation and man, there was so much to talk about. I wished you were here Naw... we have completely lost contact!

The usual suspects some may call us. Don't we all look so grown up? Thank you for coming :) :)

This is one very adorable little boy. I only managed to get this nephew of mine (cousin's son) when I offered chocolates to him. He still makes me weak on my knees....

And finally, my longest friends. The bumble bee and Kadazan dancers days. It's unbelievable that we're still in touch and I love you people a lotttt!

It's still raya so I'm going to wish everyone a Happy hari raya again! x x x

kecil kecil cili padi

2007-11-02T01:45:00.000+08:00

For the past week, my parents have been alternatingly sending and fetching me from work. Considering that I'm based at the most congested (and convenient) area, having a tiny car is such an advantage. However, drivers tend to associate small sized cars with freshly certified drivers i.e. P-drivers. So to be bullied on the road when driving my little Kelisa is a norm.

A few weeks back, I was asked whether I wanted to do anything to the car. I have already gotten tired of its colour and in my mind I thought a bright colour would give a fresh look to the car. After consulting with my folks, I realised that changing the colour of the car would be very troublesome because it has already been registered with its current colour. Many procedures need to be followed if I proceeded.

Anyway.. on the way back today, a massive lorry was being naughty on the road and moved very close to the car. Angry as we were, my dad honked the asshole multiple times. Then I said, "Pa, I suggest if you want to do something to the car, why not change the honk to a macho one." While grinning, he responded, "OK what.. it sounds like...." and together we both said, "the Road Runner". Seriously, it does.

After 5 years owning the car, I have finally found the best name for it.

Beep beep.

under one roof

2007-10-31T21:12:00.000+08:00

One disadvantage about living under the same roof with my family is that there is no privacy whatsoever. When living alone, I could leave all my belongings messed around in my room, leave and come back to see everything where I left them. If I had chocolates to munch while doing work, the only person I needed to stay away from them is me.

The situation isn't the same here at home. If I have comfort food, I better well hide it. Even that does not guarantee me from losing them. I used to have a bag of chocolates and sweets in my drawer. By the time I got back from work today, I have nothing. After a thorough investigation, I knew who the culprit was.

As a punishment, I demanded to be given what was taken away from me. Only 10 times more. I thought, maybe this is a good way to freaking teach them a lesson. Make them learn the value of money. I will not tolerate this behaviour so unless I get what I have lost, I'm not talking to them. Simple.

rare opportunity

2007-10-23T20:05:00.000+08:00

I thought, since I reached home waaay early today maybe I should post up something memorable which has happened today.

It was the graduation day for our seniors CMT and it was very significant because it was organised by my colleagues and I. No doubt it was tough work but the result was satisfying and we received many compliments from a number of the bank's big shots including our dearly CEO.

The preparation for this event has tested our ability to cope with a lot of pressure and high expectations. I personally was challenged to the highest degree with the responsible of the team leader for this project. However without the concerns of my precious colleagues, I don't think I could have led this important event.

Well done CMT10, without all of you this would not have happened. If it wasn't for our late nights and working weekends, we wouldn't have gotten our panda eyes and all of the great comments today.

journal entry

2007-10-20T02:28:00.000+08:00

I was told today that it is healthy to be keeping a daily journal or diary because from it we can analyse the way we feel each day. We can see how frequent we experience a certain feeling and discover why we feel such way. From these findings, we could probably help improve ourselves and avoid the negative feelings.

Eventhough I don't keep a diary, I do express myself through this medium which I have been using for nearly half a decade now. Before today's motivational talk on feelings and behaviours, I already knew that I can find out so much about myself - why I feel certain ways, how I improve the feelings and etc. through my previous entries. Writing your daily experience is up to a certain extent, very good in getting to know yourself better.

To begin today's entry, I must say I am already looking like a zombie after only three days resuming work. I no longer look forward for the weekends as for tomorrow (or today) I still do not have time to catch up with my personal life. I am so bloody tired and there's nothing I can do about it. However I do believe that there will be a lot of benefits gained from this experience. My favourite phrase of 'What doesn't kill you makes you stronger' definitely applies in this situation.

Raya only past a week ago but it felt as if I never celebrated it. This week has been really long and raya seemed too long ago. I have missed a couple of open houses and that stinks big time. I am even missing my own open house. And some say life is beautiful.

wishing for more

2007-10-16T23:48:00.000+08:00

I hope everybody has enjoyed their Eid celebration no matter where they were, with or without their loved ones. My raya was a blast, I thought, as I had so much to eat that the whole month of Ramadhan was a complete goner. I had the opportunity to learn about my family tree from a few generations back. Visiting my grandaunts to meeting my second cousins to babysitting my cousin's children. It was wonderful.

For the first time since I started work, I had the luxury of having a 4 day weekend. Everything was a bliss - the late mornings, the flexibility of wearing skimpy clothes, and the sweet escape from the dodgy side of town. Don't get me wrong, I ain't complaining yet about my newfound job. In fact, I'm rather excited for going to work every morning. If only there were more hours in a day to regain my strength and energy.

And oooh, I've finally got my private space again and it's one hell of a good feeling.

eid ul-fitr

2007-10-13T08:52:00.000+08:00

Waaaay-heee! Finally to be celebrating Hari Raya at home after 4 long years. The feeling is unusual but of course in a good way. Today I am together with my family, friends, raya lightings, raya songs and not to forget, the long array of raya food! (I'm not going to list duit raya because I know I'm a little too old to be receiving).

First off, I want to wish a very Selamat Hari Raya to my eldest sister who has stood me up and let me come back home for raya alone. I hope your raya will be more than just any other day. Don't worry, I will take a lot of pictures of the delicious food and make you drool and regret for standing me up. Muahahahahaha. Maaf zahir batin :)

Next, to all my Malay Edinburgh friends, Happy Eid to you lots. I'm sure raya will still be exciting with all the open houses throughout the whole month of Syawal. I don't think you are missing any of the food here because you can get something just as good over there. Don't forget to skip lectures on the first day of raya. Hehe.

Not to forget, all of my beautiful friends here in KL, Selamat Menyambut Aidilfitri. We will definitely visit each other sooner or later, even when all of us are busy with our respective commitments. Hope you all will have a wonderful raya celebration.

My family... although you guys are just a few meters away from me, I would like to include you people in this post. Selamat Hari Raya and Maaf Zahir Batin. Let's make this year's raya a memorable one! (Tough for the one who stood me up).

To my S.O., happy hari raya and minta maaf zahir and batin. Have a good hari raya ;)

For those I have left out, I'm so sorry. I wish all of you a wonderful celebration!

intensify

2007-10-03T20:11:00.000+08:00

At orientation today, I felt extremely tired because of this.

A new mascara gave extra volume and length to my eyelashes which made my eyelids heavy and hence nearly put me to sleep.

mall hopping

2007-09-29T23:59:00.000+08:00

I can now confidently say that I am a shoe addict. Although it sucks when you have to share the shoe cabinet with the rest of the family.

Today's new place to explore was The Gardens at Midvalley. Honestly I never knew that it was being constructed. I only found out about it two days ago and I thought I must pay this place a visit.

The Gardens was expectedly posh, somewhat like StarHill when I went there ten years ago. There were gazillion of people walking across the path which connected Midvalley Megamall (yet another shopping mall) to this newbie and I felt as if I was entering BEP's concert hall. Once entered, the interior of the mall dropped my jaws as it was beautifully designed. The line of shops sell things which was beyond my budget so I only had a good window shopping session.

Since the selection of restaurants were still very limited, I had to return to the shoe-heaven-Megamall for some food to break fast with. It was more than an hour before the breaking fast time but oh-my-lord, the queues were crazy at all eating places. I was even thinking of settling for snacks from Carrefour but thankfully there were some empty tables at this pricey italian restaurant. At least I didn't have to delay dinner.

At the restaurant I sat across this family of three just a meter away from me. They ordered their food just before I did mine but somehow my order arrived first. Both the family and I were waiting for the time for break our fasts and when it was time, their food still had not arrived. It is of course not advisable to delay breaking fast but I thought I was being rude for eating in front of them considering that they sat on their table first. The thought of offering my food to them popped up my mind but do people actually do that? So I ate my pizza quietly.

When their order came 10 to 15 minutes after we started eating, I noticed that their pizza was the exact one we ordered! Oh the horror. The scary part was that I was facing the man of the family. I could see clearly the dissatisfaction upon his face, his anger reaching its boiling point. I sped up with the food and left the place as soon as I could.

Then I happily headed to the old sweet One Utama.

issues and tissues

2007-09-28T23:32:00.000+08:00

Five years ago, this issue has never bothered me. After that, it's all I think about.

First time in a very long time (it could be: First time ever), I spent more than two hours on the dining table eating after a long day of fasting. I enjoyed a marvelous buffet at a nearby club house with some good friends and gosh, was there a lot to eat. I actually was quite satisfied with only one round of food, but somehow I felt a little challenged because the others were going for their fourth and fifth rounds. Also I felt I had to make full use of the price paid to have the buffet.

So after the buffet session, I felt I was going to explode. I felt I was nine months pregnant. I felt fat.

When someone says, "I feel fat," you know that person has been brainwashed by the "fat Nazis," that is, those who themselves are obsessed with thinness.It is all a result of mental programming.We don't feel fat in the body.The place we feel fat is in the mind.The weight loss industry and the world of fashion and entertainment have brainwashed us and created this unhealthy obsession in our twentieth-century society.

Vijai P. Sharma, PhD. - Feeling Fat is an Attitude of the Mind.

It is different to feel fat and to actually be fat. I only realised this last week when I was browsing around Popular Bookstore and came across this self-help book which I cannot remember its title. I read an article in the book with the heading: 'Fat is a feeling' - and I felt as if I was the author. Each sentence applied to me and was very much true.

Now to think about it, I was rather chubby three years back but I never complained about it. I only became a little weight cautious after the countless comments from my relatives. Whereas for today, people think I'm look alright the way I am but I'm neverending complaining about my excess parts. I think most of the time I experience the feeling of being fat.

Why do we feel this way?

1. Our tummy is bulging out over our jeans and it's so obvious when we sit down.

2. We have had so much to eat and feel guity because our stomach is hard.

3. Some say we feel it because things in life don't go our way. When this happens, we would focus on ourselves and point out the bad things about ourselves. Make sense but I have never used this as my reason.

4. We compare ourselves with friends and family members. The silliest is to compare ourselves with celebrities who can afford to hire personal dietician and trainers and of course, liposuction.

What should be done when the feeling haunts you?

1. Don't ever look at the mirror. If you're lucky, you'll get a mirror which flatters your body. I have come across many mean mirrors and let me tell you this, mirrors often are not my best friends. So if you want to get me a mirror, give me something which can make me feel good.

2. Wear bigger clothes so that you can hide the hideous flash. My uni hoodie used to be my favourite feel good top.

3. Warn everyone around you to not talk about this sensitive issue. Some might actually cry talking about this. In fact, wear a t-shirt with these words on it: 'I feel fat today so leave me alone'. (credit)

4. Stay away from weighing scales. Truth hurts.

Discussion

When these three little words are said, do they really come from the mind or can they also come out as a result of actually being fat? How is fatness measured anyway?

I think that what you see in yourself is of course different from what people see when they look at you. I have always complained about having liposuction and my friends have also kept saying I am silly because they say there's nothing to suck out. Personally, these words can come from both the mind and the actual physic but for the latter, maybe the correct words should be 'I am ---'.

I somehow understand why my friends are irritated when I keep saying these little words. If I were in their shoes, I would too. But the problem about being a very typical XY creature is that you can never stop thinking about this issue. And the problem about being me is that I talk non-stop so sometimes I tend to repeat myself.

officially not a fan

2007-09-26T12:21:00.000+08:00

As for today, I am officially not a fan of the all techy cameraphones. Frankly, I have never got so excited of having a mobile phone with a built-in camera. I'm probably contradicting the nature of my profession, but sometimes I do prefer things to be as simple and traditional as it possibly can. So let the mobile phone be the device for you to receive and make calls and txt messages.

I was taking the LRT back from the city centre today and I noticed this boy (or a man, why would I care?) across me holding his phone upright in front of his face. Tell me who write his txt messages like that? If I'm not mistaken, the phone used was one of the Sony Ericsons and his camera shutter was down. I knew for sure that my picture was being taken but what was I to do? I only moved further away from the dude.

I won't deny that cameraphones have their benefits. A few years back, I used the cameraphone technology to help our committee members prepare for the then upcoming event. Time was running out and we had to buy a roof for our Malaysian kampung house. Because the designer of the house was not with me when I shop for supplies and because I didn't know what type of roof he wanted, the cameraphone saved our time. So it's no doubt that cameraphones can come in handy.

Cameraphones can help to solve crimes, can lighten your handbags because of the 2-in-1 feature, can do this and that, yada yada yada... it's all good. But what about respecting people's privacy?

I'm talking mainly about the pervs out there. I have heard many times that some sneakily take a snap up girls' skirts when dining. Like my case today, being photographed just in front of my two eyes by a person I don't know. Compliment? Maybe. Flattered? F**k no. Freaky? Absolutely.

So please keep away your cameraphones from me. I ain't no celebrity.

tired, no?

2007-09-25T22:29:00.000+08:00

Can you actually believe that I was at one point sick of going shopping? Have you ever heard of the saying: if you are looking for something, you won't find it?

I was nearly on the verge of breaking down yesterday in the heart of KL when I was supposed to get my Eid dress (Baju Raya, orang Melayu call it). Honestly, I have never bought a pair of these Malay traditional clothes by myself so you can imagine how lost I was trying to decide which cutting I wanted, what material I prefered, and what price range was reasonable. I was completely hopeless and in fact scared to be there. I was as if in a foreign country somewhere in South Asia.

At the end of the day, I managed to get a decent pair of baju with a lot of sweat on my back. I wasn't very happy because there was still so much to shop for - Eid, weddings (to attend, don't get excited just yet), and of course the preparation for the beginning of my career. And because there was so much to think of, I got tired of shopping and wished I didn't have to do it for a long long period of time.

Today, I was dreading to go shopping (I had to do it as I was running out of time). Surprisingly after two hours in the mall, my weird sickness of hating to shop has recovered and err.. I started to buy unnecessary things. I now have made a promise to myself to not spend for the next two weeks. Whoever who reads this, please be the witness!

Quoting from someone: "Girls and shopping, it's like irama dan lagu".

blabber 1

2007-09-23T13:01:00.000+08:00

Yesterday for buka, I was asked to assist in making some traditional curry puffs for the family and some friends. I love curry puffs and I always knew that the process of making them is very tedious. I gave it a go anyway, just to find out how funny my curry puffs would look like.

My mother requested me to practice my folding skills with Play-Doh after obversing my ugly looking work. In the picture above, the ones on the left are mine whereas on the right they are the perfect little curry puffs made by my mother. I know presentation is important but once they're in your stomach, they would all look the same. Hehe.

A few days ago, I overheard my father discussing with his friend on how children these days cannot afford living with their work salary in some significant kind of lifestyle. They emphasised on designer's espressos and I was a little ashamed. It's true, at least for me. I have been living this sort of lifestyle since I was studying abroad. Whenever I want to catch up with friends, I would definitely end up at one of these coffee place. Even when I need to catch up with work, these cafes would be my choice of place. I think these coffee houses are pretty convenient. Everything under one roof - the drinks, the food, wireless connection, air-conditioning, good music, comfort, comfort and comfort.

The above is my personal favourite. I know I should have some sense of loyalty to the cafe I used to work in and to another competitor for which I used to always get free drinks. I don't know, I just can never get sick of this place. Even when their drinks are no longer up to my standard.

Let me tell you some of my experience with Starbucks Coffee:

1. I was introduced to Caramel Macchiatto 4 years ago and since then it has become my usual order.

2. Due to some bad influence, I.... erm.... stole one of their tall sized mugs.

3. I get 20% to 30% discount off my total bill in Penang because my cousin is a Starbucks' Coffee Master.

4. One Indian-English barista is Edinburgh Forest Road branch was cute.

5. Tell me who doesn't go dating in Starbucks?

6. Ever since my trip to Uptown 37's Starbucks, my Caramel Macchiatto is never perfect anymore. They need to go easy with the foam and give me more milk, goddammit!

Inhale... exhale... maybe if someone was generous enough to get me an espresso machine, I could make my own Caramel Macchiatto and not complain a lot.

cheers

2007-09-22T00:18:00.001+08:00

I did not only discovered disgusting things yesterday when I was helping to clean up the apartment. I found a couple of Iran's non-alcoholic beers in the kitchen cabinet so I thought hmm, why not give it a go. I brought back two bottles home.

The trial session took place in the dark as if we were smuggling some illegal substance. Initally both the peach and lemon flavoured beers smelt funny and I personally was a bit worried to taste it. Peach drink tasted funky but surprisingly the lemon one was nice. As expected, no one got tipsy at the end of the night.

quotes

2007-09-21T01:44:00.000+08:00

So far, this week is one of the most challenging week I've experienced. Full of uncertainties and also involves a lot of decision making. I am still going through my transition mode and it's definitely a love-hate relationship between the mode and I.

While I am trying to make my mind about something, I came across these really good words from a song. It says,

"And if you're faced with a choice and you have to choose,
I hope you choose the one that means the most to you. "

Rascal Flatts - My Wish

These words have been lingering in my head all day today. These are strong words and perhaps are influencing my say about this situation I am facing.

One other phrase I always reread is from the current book I'm reading. Maybe this is not particularly related to my problem that needs solving, but it could help if some words are replaced.

"I lay it down as a general rule, Harriet, that if a woman doubts as to whether she should accept a man or not, she certainly ought to refuse him. If she can hesitate as to 'Yes', she ought to say 'No' directly."

Jane Austen - Emma

Two very significant phrases which I will consider carefully.

back to school

2007-09-18T21:22:00.000+08:00

For the Edinburgers, today is their first day of a new academic year. I was not sure what went on in my head but today was also the first day I stepped foot in a university after I left the 'Burgh.

I actually had never planned this so-called road trip beforehand. The next thing I know, I was on the way to Semenyih to visit the University of Nottingham, Malaysia Campus. It was a long journey away from where I live and the traffic was quite bad. I made a mistake of wearing black jeans because today was exceptionally hot and I felt as if my legs were in a sauna.

The scenery on the way there was different from what I'm used to. In fact, I felt as if I was far up north of the country rather than being near the capital. I finally reached my destination approximately 50 minutes after leaving home and wow, I was actually quite impressed with the exterior of the university.

I have been to the University of Nottingham in the UK four years ago. I might be wrong but I thought the Malaysia Campus looked similar to that of in the UK. Then I was told that they were actually trying to build it similar to the one in the UK. After stepping out the car to explore the campus, I realised that I have made a huge mistake for not bringing my camera.

The first stop of the tour was the library and thankfully it was fully air-conditioned and worked well. Once I stepped in, I wished I need not leave the room. I explored the EEE sections, I guess the geeky electronics girl has not left this body yet. It was funny that I still found the books interesting even when I have bitched a lot about the course.

Next was the triple E building. Nothing can beat The King's Buildings in my former university. There was nothing much to see at the Malaysia Nottingham's triple E building but it was still exciting being in a place where I know what the fancy equipments do.

I went around the Student Union and then noticed that there were a lot of Nigerian students. Most of them were well built and I felt very intimidated walking pass them. They were indeed very stylish and no doubt an eye-catcher. I apparently bumped into one lad and he nodded his head in the "How're you doin'" style. That was quite funny.

The layout of the university was nicely done however with the tropical weather Malaysia is having, I personally don't think many of the chill-out spots can be utilised. There was this beautiful lake in front of the main building with ducks swimming around, but I highly doubt that students would appreciate walking around the lake in this heat. There was also a nice big fountain somewhere in the campus but because the trees were only being planted, they couldn't provide shelter from the burning sun. Whereas indoors, I saw the potential of a great chill-out place and it was still under renovation.

An interesting place to go to today. I don't regret any single bit of it.