Pictures

(Updated 13 July 2006: I've been sued for indiscriminate posting of a photo and I'm asked to to do a public apology on this....Okay, My sincere apologies to PinkCotton for stealing her photo and claimed to be from my e-pal....hehehe....Anyway, to make up to her, let me re-arrange my post)

I'm doing some spring cleaning of my pictures' folder in my pc and thought I might share with you some.

A very nicely shot photo from Pinkcotton's backyard
















The nicely bloomed flowers from Andrew of Minneapolis, Minnesota


























Ever famous chicken rice shop in Spore - Wee Nam Kee @Novena
















Recently bought craft items













Shucks, blogspot failed on me half way on downloading process.....Too slow for my patience....Guess I have to make do with whatever I have managed to post.

Another Rojak

For those who have been eagerly waiting to see the invitation cards that I've made for my parents' wedding anniversary, please click here. This is my other Home where I keeps all my cards and other workcrafts..

Last Saturday, being a matured and sophistical lady I am, I actually bought and presented a basket full flowers to a couple friend on their special occasion...... It was so pretty that I have 2nd thought in giving it away, so for not being a sour grape, I was given the 'permission' to take its pictures as memory lor.... (just kidding yeah!)

Anyway, sharing with you the flowers:

The Bouquet

Close-up pix of a daisy

Close-up pix of 1 of the 2 lilies (Like it so much that I used it as my handphone wallpaper as well as my msn icon)

Papercrazy's 1st birthday

It's Papercrazy 1st birthday today and I'm writing my 365th day entry.....



It is exactly one year ago I started my 1st post. I know nuts about blogging and bloggers and blogs and what not until once-a-very-good-friend introduced it to me....and then I introduced it another friend and the 3 of us started blogging ever since...His blog was one of the very interesting blogs that I read without fail everyday. Sadly, he has not been writing since last year for a reason only he alone knows but even then, I still visit his blog and read his past posts....

Has not been hearing from him or meeting him (though we try) but I'm sure he's happy with his present situation though we were told that he has just lost the most valuable gift that he ever had and my heart goes out for him....

I was busy playing guessing game yesterday with a friend who has just started her own business but refuse to tell me what line is she in.......Instead, she's going to give me hint by hint and see how clever am I in breaking it.....What? She tot I am Professor Robert Langdon ah????

As usual, I'm burning the midnite oil again in getting the cards ready.....Finally, finished all the 60 cards last night, with the help of assistants and apprentices...A certain apprentice was too stressed out with her role of cutting ribbons and pasting double sided tape that she had gastric attack. Also, I have to trimmed short 4 of my fingernails in order to have a better grip in tying the ribbons.. *sob sob*

Rojak Blogs

What have I been up to this past and present week:

1) Change my blog's template....

2) Gave away my newly adopted Cuddles (U wud know what it is if you have been visiting my blog regularly)...For those 1st timer, sorry.....too sad to mention...*sob*sob*

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Alright, I changed my mind. Cuddles is a virtual cat that I took in to my virtual home....Apparantely, my quiet home is not used to cuddles running around so it went on strike and upset my whole furniture and furnishing.....So, I was given the ultimatum - either to give away cuddles or to have a messy home....After days and days of sleepless nights, I have made up my mind not to make any decision...I gave up both....No cuddles and I refurbished my whole home, thus the new template lor...:-)

3) In the middle of doing a project - 60 handmade cards for my parents' wedding anniversary invites..Shall post them in my other home once it's done.

4) Admiring my craft materials that I bought from Singapore.....Not willing to store them away as yet.... (It reminds me of when we were young after receiving our christmas pressies.....My sisters, brother and I will keep our pressie next to our bed and will look at it every night before we sleep for at least a week before we decided to store them away in their respective storage!!)

5) I'm taking on another staff's work as she is on maternity leave. Too little work in the office to hire a temp. (Oh yes, I'm a proud 'grandmother' of a healthy baby girl....My accounts clerk delivered a baby girl on 30 June 06)......After a week of doing her job, I realised that I enjoy doing clerical works than management....Perhaps I should ask my boss to demote me yeah??? But Boss, just in case u r reading, I still want my room and my salary, yes??

I'm curious...Looking at the site meter report, I seem to have lots of readers/fans *ahem*ahem* out there reading my blog but somehow or rather I don't get any comments at all...I'm curious, really curious....why are my readers so shy shy one or perhaps it's not a fan but more of a stalker???? *shudder* *shudder*

Anyway, to all my readers/fans/stalkers/admirers/ out there, Nice meeting you and thank you for visiting me. It would be even nicer if I can get to hear from you all....I'm a nice person in nature and I don't have any criminal record, be it murder or just a parking offence....so, feel free to talk to me, yes?

Weekend is here and we are going to a pot-luck dinner tomorrow. Can't think of what to cook (surely not my lasagne again). AL is thinking of baking the bread pudding (like the one that Mau baked last Sunday) I'm not good/I don't like sweet stuff so I guess he has to bake it himself....

Toodles!

Singapore

I'm finally back from my shopping spree in Singapore and my legs are aching like hell.....We are proud of the hotel that we stayed though very basic but much better than the lousy Grand Central...Strand Hotel is located at Bencoolen Street and a walking distance to Orchard as well as to Bugis/Bras Basah......

Plaza Singapura was the most visited place in my list (I went there at least 2 times daily during the my 3 days stay in Singapore) cos that's where I bought my craft items, at Spotlight... The 2nd most visited place was Bras Basah Complex where I spent the biggest chunk of my Singapore dollars at Art Friend (rubber stamps, inkpad and all that stuff)

Albeit the short stay, I managed to do the following:
1) Bought my craft materials from Spotlight , Prints and Art Friend
2) Bought 2 blouses & a pleated skirt from Chomel
3) Bought several T-shirts from Hang Ten
4) Shopped at Marks & Spencer
5) Sightseeing at the Esplanade and Merlion Park

Talking about the Merlion, we walked all the way on the last day of our stay just to find that the ever famous icon of SIngapore, the Merlion was closed for touch-up and restoration.....and the thing that impressed me was the way they keep the renovation and dirty works as discreet as possible....Instead of just cover it up with some unsightly canvas or plywood (like what we normally get in Kuching), the Government actually took the effort to camouflage it with a very artistic painting.










The Merlion hidden behind....














The first stray animal found in Singapore city....and a smart one too...

Fancy keeping guard of it's bronze counterpart..

Men vs underwear

I was having a casual talk with a female acquaintance and she brought up something amusing and at the same time good to think about issue. Her man apparantely does not wear underwear to sleep and she remarked that it is similar to why women does not wear bras to sleep!

It has never occur to me the similarities that she mentioned, as to me, underwears/panties are something that we cannot live without, be it the lacy bits or the serviceable types (Leggy's illustration of a full cotton underwear!!) I can accept the fact that some men are never in good term with his underwear, thus, no underwear regardless of the time and day of the month. What I can't seem to digest is man who wears underwear during the day but rip them off the moment he hit the bed...to sleep, I mean.

Anyway, I spotted an interesting site and it really surprised me further to note how big a deal is underwear to men, even to extent of doing a public poll....View the current results

However, I would like to specially present this part to this acquaintance of mine with this message: Your Man is not NORMAL!!! HAHAHAHAHAHA

Do you sleep in your underwear?
Yes (45%)
No (31%)
Sometimes (22%)
20137 total votes

Ok, aside the worldwide survey, feel free to participate in my short and precise survey here:

1.Your Age Group
a) 10-19
b) 20-30
c) 31-40
d) 41-50
e) 51-60
f) Past your menopausal age

2. Do you wear underwear to bed?
a) Yes
b) No
c) Sometimes

3. What kind of underwear you normally wear?
a) G-string
b) Loose Boxer
c) Tight athletic Boxer
d) Tanga
e) The old Apek Blue Cotton Boxer

4. What is your favourite color of underwear?
a) Black
b) Blue
c) Green
d) Red
e) White
f) Colourful/stripes

You can either post your answers in my comment box or if you are the shy type (especially those who choose the answer E for Question 3, you can email me

This is just for fun, ok? I'm not representing any brands of underwears nor am I an underwear maniac!!

I AM SICK

So angry!!!! 2 more days to my trip and I am down with severe cough, flu and sore throat...

Aloy said he might have to leave me at the Changi International Airport Quarantine Department if I don't get well by Thursday...What a meany!

Things to do in Singapore (if I'm not retain at the Quarantine):
1) Buy rubber stamps and other craft materials at Art Friend, Bras Basah Complex
2) Get my supply for my next project - Dad & Mum's wedding anniversary invites
3) Buy beads, stickers, papers and any other embellishments from Spotlight Plaza Singapura
4) eat Chicken Rice at Thomson Road
5) Eat other international cuisines
6) Eat Old Chang Kee Fishball
7) Buy lacy lingerie
8) Look for the mini polo mint sweets in a giant polo case
9) Buy shoes and some baju
10) Buy persimmons

That should be enough to cover my 3D 2N trip

It's Monday

Good morning Monday, Good morning Computer, Good morning People....

I'm feeling very high spirited today merely because I'm going to Singapore this Thursday for my long deserved short holiday...and I'm gonna spend like there's no tomorrow on my craft materials. Also, I need to have my wardrobe changed, so I shall be heading down to Orchard for that! Leggy told me that I should reward myself with something that I really like since I have done something big that she's proud of!! Sorry Readers, no sharing on that!

I have just got an email from my supplier in KL informing me that she's sending my order today and should reach me by the 20th.....Couldn't wait to use the magnetic alphabet rubber stamps but I suppose judging on the estimated time of arrival and the lousy postal service, I don't think I'll get to see my order until my return from Singapore!!

Food Review

Was supposed to post this last Friday but I forgot the name of the shop until Mau went back to the place and got the name for me. (Thanks Mau!)

Ok, Mau and I went to Xuan Ye Delicous Food for lunch last Friday (it's a cafe ala resturant style located opposite Star Cineplex, next to Sin Hua Travel)I first heard of this eatery from Leggy but never get to go there until now.

We were surprised to note the reasonably-priced menus and the variety of dishes, ranging from Western to Chinese. People are friendly and very helpful. The only problem I had was the difficulty in communicating since they only speak Mandarin (Despite being a handicap in communicating with them, they still took time to explain to me on all the dishes in their simple yet understandable English) Anyway, I ordered it's deep fried pork chop noodles and Mau ordered it's steamed pork with chinese sausage and rice....And all their dishes came with a bowl of hot seaweed soup and an awful lot of seaweed in the soup instead of just a few strains like some shops (Yeah yeah, I don't take seaweed but i love the soup tho) Between the 2 dishes + soup, 2 cans of Cincau, superb customer service and nice ambience, we were charged RM11.50 only

Steamed minced pork with chinese sausage. Notice the seaweed soup??? That's a lot, rite?? Mau insisted that I took the photo with a bit of action, thus the hands.

Deep Fried Pork Chop with Noodles - Sorry for the puny looking noodles....It was not like that when it was served....I was too hungry I actually stirred the noodles before realising that I haven't took the pix.

A little girl of about 4 years old wearing a pyjama (presumed must be the tawkay nio's daughter) was seen "helping" in serving the customers. I know, I know, this is actually child labour, but I was just too impressed with their service to report them!! :-)

Thumbs up for the good service, good food and good price! Will sure go back there soon.

BAD DAY

What a day to start.......reminds me of the Song Bad day by Daniel Potter (How I wish I can take a holiday now!!)

Anyway, it was supposed to be a good day today, with me being able to wake up by myself (even before the alarm clock went off)

Then, it started with several motorists who irritates me by being so slow and unalert causing me to lose my temper and honking at least 4 times this morning....then the massive jam at Keretapi. (Bloody hell, where did all the motorists came from)...the jam was so massive that I was stucked at the peak of the flyover for at least 15 mins and then it started to crawled and it took me about 40 mins to travel from my home to the traffic light at Jalan Keretapi..

That's not the end.....I'm getting mad with the never-ending construction in front of a chinese school and in fornt of Tadika Sri Keria....They have actually stopped constructing the road few weeks ago and it's an accident-waiting-to-be-happened zone with the numerous unsmooth road and lots and lots of potholes....man!

So, who shud I blame this time??? Definitely the Football fever and the opening of school term!!!

On a more happier note, I've just received an email informing me that my order of rubber stamps from US has finally arrived!

Names translation

This is fun! Spotted a website where it will help to translate your first name to Japanese...I was so thrilled at trying just to find out that Japanese doesn't recognise my name! Shucks! So, I have to settled with a name closest to mine and this is how it turns out:

This is how my more-or-less-name should look like in Japanese:

I'm a mandarin-challenged person but I can more or less gauge what the above character is in Mandarin (People said Mandarin & Japanese are similar leh)...Anyway, I think it shud be "Muk Er Tou" (meaning Wood Two Knife)...HAHAHAHAHAHAH........

Anyway, those mandarin literate people out there - Pls correct me if I'm wrong in the translation....

This blog has just made my downhearted-boring-depressed day much more meaningful!!!!

Have a great weekend to one and all!

Mt Singgai

I know this is an overdue post.....I totally forgot about it until today. Anyway, we went mountain climbing cum personal retreat to Mount Singgai at Bau on 2-6-06.

Introduction:
Mt Singgai is a pilgrimage centre and it was actually selected as one of the pilgrimage spots during the Jubilee Year. It's also known as CMPC (Catholic Memorial Pilgrimage Centre). There are 12 stops as you climb up to the peak and at every stop, one is supposed to observe the Station of the Cross. (Btw, there are 14 stations of the Cross) The last 2 stops are at the peak with as u approach the church...Lodgings are provided at a very minimal rates for those who wish to spend the night....There is also a canteen to cater for your daily meals, and of course, there are several praying stations for those who wish to spend some quiet time with God...The most amazing thing about CMPC is that all the infrastructure and lodgings and what not are built on a gotong-royong (community-based) basis whereby each villager will go up every weekend carrying several building materials and build the whole community up there, all thanks to the leader, Mr Vincent Eddy. It's open to members of the public, but non catholics are reminded to maintain utmost silence throughtout the journey up to the peak.

Scenario:
We went up at 7.30am and by the time we reached the feet of the mountain, there were several cars parked at the empty land. We started our journey, stopping at every station for a rosary and prayer.. There were several climbers passing us, not stopping for prayers, carrying loads and loads of food and drinks, talking loudly and merrily (and from my assumption, they were there for picnics and obviously non christians) That's not all. As we arrived at the peak of the mountain, we decided to go to the Grotto for a short prayer and there, again, we noticed several youngsters (obviously a non-catholic again) sitting there and talk loudly without even giving consideration to the prayerful atmosphere....I was totally upset at a boy who went up to the grotto and started washing his hands and face using the water from the fountain next to the statue of Our Lady. Anyway, let's not judge the whole population over a minority of visitors who did not behave....I do met several polite climbers too!!

Message to visitors:
1) This is a pilgrimage centre. Please respect the place by not destroying the religuous articles placed there
2) The mountain belongs to the community and you are just a visitor. Please do not take anything that's not yours, ie the durian buds, durians or even the nice looking fern
3) Please be quiet when you are at the peak...majority of us are there for retreats.
4) Please help in carrying the bricks up....please do not carry for fun and then just throw it away along the way. It cost them money.

Photos:

The steps going up the hill

Christ the King Chapel

The first beam of the church

the Arch to the Amphiteatre

06-06-06

As I was browsing through the church notice last Sunday in church, I couldn't help noticing the long list of wedding masses yesterday. What is so great about getting hitched on a working Tuesday, I thought.... Then, after much thoughts, I realised that it was not the Tuesday that the couples are interested in, but the date..

Honestly, there were at least 7 knowned weddings yesterday, what more the unknowned ones. I was caught in a jam yesterday evening on my way back from work due to the overflowing of cars attending receptions in various hotels & restaurants in the city.

So, what's so great about the triple 6???? Apart from the nice arrangement of numbers (060606), I don't find any significance resembling the number 666, but I do came accross an extract from the bible signifying 666 as the numbers for the devils....Even the movie The Omen was launched on 06-06-06.....Not sure about the chinese belief though....Perhaps someone can tell me????

A piece of advice here for young couples who are preparing to get married - Don't miss 07-07-07, 08-08-08, 09-09-09 or maybe even 10-10-10........I would go for 88-88-88......Don't u think that's an even nicer number????

Life

I stumbled upon a very inspring yet emotional blog of a very young girl who recently passed on from cancer. She recorded her life story from the day she discovered that she had cancer, her ups and downs, the treatment and finally her resting. It totally amazed me to see such a strong willed girl who fought her life for the sake of her family, her friends, her partner and most of all, her sanity.

I just couldn't hold back my tears reading her last and final blog.

Life....Reading her blog just made us realised how important our life is... Reading her blog also confirmed that not all bloggers are exhibitionists!

5 things to do before the week is over:
1) Apply leave for my Singapore trip
2) Make reservation with at least 2 hotels for my KL trip
3) Find fault with at least 1 staff :-)
4) Make at least a card
5) Tidy up my workstation

5 things to do during the holidays:
1) Sleep late
2) Make at least 5 cards
3) Bake something
4) Try making the seaweed popiah
5) Tidy up my craftstation

5 things to say before the day is over:
1) I'm bored
2) I'm sleepy
3) I'm tired
4) I'm lazy
5) I'm hungry

Bukit Mata Seafood

This is partly an advertisement and personal testimony...

My aunty and her family are going back to Auckland today and we brought them out for dinner last night at Bukit Mata Seafood No 25.... Leggy introduced this stall to me ages ago and I've been faithfully patronising them whenever I'm there. Btw, this is the stall where I learnt how to describe the half shelled clams....

Anyway, food was marvellous and well served....Freshly cooked to the right taste. Everyone was thrilled and the best part was the free entertainment. Cultural Village set up a stage there with all sorts of cultural performances.....

The food was ridiculously priced....So cheap that for a moment, u thought u are paying in OZ dollars. Imagine, where on earth at this present moment can u pay just a mere RM250.00 for 8 dishes (4 types of seafood) plus umpteen rounds of juices and beer for 12 pax????? Even kam pua mee in Sibu is expensive now....

I promised the tow kay nio that I will help her in promoting her stall (that's the price to pay for being charged cheap and it worth every single cent in my pocket) so, here goes:

Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, brothers and sisters, friends and enemies, if you happen to crave for seafood and you are in Kuching, of course, please drop by Bukit Mata No 25 Seafood Stall at Taman Kereta....

Things You'll find only in Sibu

Dessert for a reception - yam with siew mai

Birthday bun

Kom Pia - the salty type

Kom Pia - the sweet type

Grandma's rice dumpling

London???

Spotted this telephone booth at the Esplanade.....Who says u have to burn a hole in your pocket to go to London??? I paid only RM194 airfare to see London

Of Happiness and Sadness

Went back to Sibu over the weekend to attend my maternal grandmother's 70th Birthday. It was both a sad and happy occasion for us all... Happy obviously because it was her birthday and sad because this could be her last birthday. She's suffering from an advance stage of breast cancer and her days are numbered, literally. Her children are keeping mum about her serious condition from her. Despite her sickness, she is a very nice and quiet lady. We arrived her house on Saturday morning with lots of food that she personally made just for us......Before I fly, I kept on trying to recall how she looks like as I have no recollection of that.....I can't even remember the last time I saw her..Anyway, she remembers my name and that's all that matters.

Her signature dishes are Pak Lo Duck and the pillow-look-a-like bak chang....I immediately took 1 bak chang and ate it and it was very nice indeed. (My sister, the anonymous said I was tham chiak but how could you turn down the invitation from such a nice lady who prepared so much for you despite her sicknesss?)

Anyway, her birthday luncheon was yesterday and it was a very emotional one...What saddened me the most was that innocent look of hers.....As much as the children tried to keep silent about her condition, deep down, I'm sure, grandma knows that her days on earth are limited.

How does it feel knowing that your days are numbered? How would you react? Would you be as calm? How would you prepare yourself to face death and finally if it arrives, how do you take it? When do you have to say goodbye to all your loved ones, would you be given enough time to bid them goodbye and tell them not to mourn for you?

How, how, when, when...........................that's life.....

Good News and Bad News

Let's start with Good News first:
1) I don't have to go to NZ anymore
2) I'm going to Singapore end of June
3) Singapore is having its Grand Sale from end of June until July
4) We can redeemed our Singapore airtickets thru A's accummulated enrich points
5) I can go to Art Friend @Bras Basah to get my rubber stamps

Bad news leh:
1) I wouldn't be going to NZ liaw
2) All Singapore hotels are fully booked (reservation thru the travel agents that is....)
3) All Singapore hotels marked up their room rates by at least 100% during the travel period (Note: DON'T EVER THINK OF GOING TO SINGAPORE BETWEEN 19TH AND 24TH JUNE 2006 UNLESS U ARE ATTENDING THE COMMUNIC ASIA 2006 CONVENTION, which yours truly is going for)

ARGHHHHHHHH....See how frustrated I am??? Can anyone help me???? Hello????? Is there any Singapore-based bloggers reading my blog now???? I need solutions........................

Steaming the steamboat

We celebrated Mother's Day by bringing mum to taste the food of Thailand at Coca Restaurant Steamboat Buffet. G is away in real world Thailand, so there were only 7 of us including Little J.

Promotional rate for Mother's Day dinner was RM45.00 excluding tax but somehow or rather, someone in the restaurant like us so much that they billed us RM37.50 only. Ok, it's an eat-all-you-can, so obviously we ate all we can....We were given 2 steamboats with chicken broth and tom yam in each pot. A variety of dishes were served and I like the chicken ball the most. The fried rice was good too...I was told that the highlight of the restaurant is their secret homemade chilli sauce and it was rumoured that the sauce is airflown daily from Thailand. I'm a bit sceptical about that but nevertheless, I'm not sure how good the sauce is cos I don't take hot stuff.

Food in general was superb and the service fantastic. A good place to go but I personally prefers Hornbill Steamboat, both because of its price and its variety of dishes.

Happy Mother's Day to all eligible lot!

Staying United

Tell me what is wrong with this banner? Noticed it on my way down to work yesterday and it is supposed to be an advertisement by a travel agency promoting USA.....

Lasagna

I don't know why but of late, I have been so engrossed in baking lasagna. Maybe because I have got an oven for my birthday and I've suddenly craved for Italian men....Anyway, Sunday was the 5th tray of lasagna I baked since Easter Sunday

I baked 2 trays for Easter brunch and everyone said it was nice....and I baked another tray last Saturday for SSVP gathering (though a bit burnt but everyone said it was nice too and I have my whole car smell like lasagna too) and the last tray was last Sunday evening and I must say that was the best of all......it was so nicely baked and the cheese melted at the right texture...hmmmm..

Since I'm in good mood today, I'm sharing with you my recipe...(No measurement tho, just ingredients cos I'm the type of person who doesn't believe in measurement!)

Top View
Side View



MNG's Traditional Lasagna
Ingredients:
1 pkt of instant Lasagna sheets (San Remo)
1 pkt of Mozarella Cheese (parmesan works just fine)
1 tub of Cheddar Cheese, chopped finley (optional)
Minced Beef
1 bottle of San Remo bolognese sauce (Only lazy people uses this, otherwise, u can put in some herbs and tomato puree, it works just fine)
1 small can of San Remo Tomato puree (again, this is optional)
Garlic, Celery, Carrot and Onions (cubed finely - I omitted the celery cos' I hate it)
I bottle of fresh milk
A tablespoon of flour
Butter (250gm, I think)

Preparation:
Beef filling:
Put a quarter butter into a pan, put in all the garlic, celery, carrot and onions. fry lightly and then add in the beef....Simmer for a while, and then add in the bolognese sauce and the puree...Salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for awhile and cover it for later use.

Cheese Sauce
Put another quarter butter into a pan and let it melt, add in flour, stir it for a while, then pour in the milk...let it boil, switch off the fire and put in half the mozarella and cheddar....keep aside

Preparation:
Oil the baking tray; start the base with a layer of beef, then the cheese sauce before u lay the lasagna sheets on top to cover; repeat the process until u r satisfy with the thickness (but don't go for more than 3 layers) end the layering with a layer of beef and the sauce....sprinkle the remaining mozarella and cheddar. Bake it at 180C for no more than 30 mins, or until golden brown......Let it set for 5 mins before cutting it....

Yummy....Enjoy

A missing friend

As I was doing my work, I suddenly thought of a friend whom I have not heard or seen for a long time.

He has always been a nice friend, a person whom we can confide in and I do miss him a lot......but it's sad to note that he might not be feeling the same way towards us cos' he's shutting himself away from us, his friends. How I wish he could call us and tell us that he's ok and he still treats us as his friends......

How sad.........

Splitting Moments

Went for my long overdue haircut at my ever faithful Salon last Saturday afternoon. I used to hair my monthly hair cut at his shop at Sarawak Plaza but after he moved to Satok, I changed my visit to once every 2 months, and that's partly due to cost-cutting exercise too

Anyway, while he was snipping away, I told him that my hair is so dry and he recoomended a treatment which I agreed......then along the way, I told him again that I noticed some split ends and recommended a solution of which, yes, u r right, I agreed again (since he mentioned the magic word "no hassle and not much effort on method of application"). The last thing I want is to spend hours and hours of my time doing my hair....



Right, I finished all the cutting and treatment and brought home a bottle of Wella SP Ends Express Solution (Note for Leggy: SP stands for System Professionals and not what-u-think). I also brought home a slightly lighter purse. I was RM200 poorer that day.

Morale of the story - Never tell your hairdresser your hair problem!!!!!!!!

My books are here!!!!

I ordered 2 craft books from KL and after 2 long weeks of waiting, they have finally arrived yesterday, safe and sound, on my table....

100 Ideas on Cardmaking & Invitations
The Art of Cardmaking


What a great feeling......

Now, my hands are aching from reading the book last night on my bed. Before you laugh, the books are hardcover with 400 pages.....and knowing my size, I should be thankful I did not break my arm.....

A value for money and I am so happy...........

p/s I have made the booking to NZ

Over-enthusiastic me

I have a very short span of concentration and I normally need lots and lots of pushing before I get things done and then halfway I'll stop and a further pushing is needed. People used to say that I'm just like a cow who needs spanking before it is willing to pull a cart...Well, I can't deny that, merely because I'm a cow myself, and No, I'm not a cow because i have breasts that produces milk, but I'm cow cos my chinese zodiac says so. So, those who want to guess my age, by all means but no reward, tq!

I was so very into reading Law after I finished my Accounting that I signed up for a correspondence course. I paid quite a hefty sum of money for enrolment (Hefty as during that time when I was earning peanuts) Anyway, the fire of enthusasism was so great then and after the 1st year, I began to slack and ended up being a loyar buruk instead of a lawyer!

Anyway, my latest obsession was to buy a laptop. I spent endless time searching the website, asking experts around and even call the manufacturer to talk on a bargain. They agreed and I pulled out at the last minute. The one that I was looking at was so good and very reasonably priced too. It even comes with a DVD writer......

Another thing, I have just been given a knock on the head for delaying the booking of airtickets. We have less than 2 months to got for the intended trip and I'm yet to make any bookings and everyone are depending on me....Oh dear! This is going to be my resolution for this week: TO BOOK THE AIRTICKETS

I'm Goldilocks now. I broke into somebody's house, molested the owner's cat and 2 dogs, gave a knock on the owner's daughter's kelisa (and got my hand dirtied, the car is damn dirty) and now, using the owner's computer to update my blog.......The owner should be back anytime now...I'd better erase my fingerprints from things that I have laid my hands on. (Sorry, no time to bathe the dogs and cat) Gotta go now....and pleaseeeeee do not call the police..............

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it's my parents' house......hehehehe

New Outlook

I have a problem, and my problem is that I always do something hastily without thinking and then ended up with more problem. Take this look for instance.....I was bored of the no-problem outlook that I decided to change it and now, I don't know how to align the shortcuts at the side of this blog.....

Me and my itchy hands!!

If I Have $10,000.00

What will I do if I have $10,000.00:

1) Go for a round-the-world holiday
2) Buy myself a good Dell Laptop
3) Change my wardrobe
4) Buy more papers, rubber stamps and eyelets
5) Treat my dear ones to the Italian Buffet at Restorante Beccari
6) If Item 1 is beyond the $10k budget: Go back to melbourne for yet another crafts shopping spree
7) After Melbourne, then I'll go to London

Hmm....Guess that's how far my $10k can stretch.......How about u? What will u do if you are suddenly richer by $10,000.00???????

On a more sombre note, today is the 2nd anniversary of Colin's passing. He was a very nice man married to a very nice wife and have raised 3 very nice kids......I'm sure if he's around, he will be more than happy to give me that $10k. He was a very generous man and were never stingy with money. Eternal rest grant unto him O Lord, and may perpetual light shine on him, may he rest in peace..Amen

It's Holy Week now and I'm left with only 2 days to reflect on myself and repent. After 38 days of Lent, I'm yet to do any good deed. I have been feasting day-in day-out (can't blame me tho, just too many birthdays to celebrate, including my own!) Anyway, I think I have started to do good by doing an ironing marathon yesterday. I started at 9.30am and call it quit at 1.30pm with a small burn on my right arm. That's repentence! I bet even those climbers to Mt Singgai did not sweat as much as me....... :-)

Also, I've been getting good news for the past 2 days.....First, somebody from Toyota called last Saturday to officially apologise for the many unpleasant incidents that have incurred for the past montths and our next servicing will be on them; Found a shop in KL selling all sorts of cardmaking materials (Prices are slightly steep but at least I don't have to worry about conversion and postage); and finally, someone is willing to subsidise an airfare to New Zealand for me!!!!!

See, what else can u expect from 2 days?????

Paris Hilton as Mother Teresa????

Just heard the most stupidest (if there's such word) and most humiliating news about an Indian Film Director shortlisting Paris Hilton to play the role of Mother Teresa of Calcutta in his upcoming movie. Is this crazy or what???? He claimed that there are strong resemblance between this 2 women. Hello??????? What kind of resemblance except for the fact that they are both women?

Imagine:
this lady similar to this lady????

GET REAL!

Bored or boring

I'M BORED TO THE VERY CORE

Since I'm bored today, I shall write something mean, sort of cheering myself at the EXPENSE of other people's misfortune...U might noticed the capital letter of EXPENSE cos' somebody just argued with me that it should be EXPENSES! (So, that's No. 1 laugh).

I had a conversation with somebody whom I can't remember claiming that she was boring (which in fact, I think she meant she was bored). So, I just answered "Yes, very boring indeed" and she was so glad that I shared the same feeling as her.....that SHE'S A BORE! HAH!

Also, somebody just showed me a picture that she took of her bruised bum as a result of a fall few days ago.....How I wish I can see her face there and then...Though I pity her but I just couldn't stop imagine how she walked for the past few days..Btw, she has a humongous bum, a fleshy one some more. She's one of my reader and I bet she doesn't dare to reprimand me thru this blog for fear of identity.

Being tall sometimes can be a problem, especially when you are buying a car....somebody actually had to turned down several model of cars just because her long legs couldn't fit in....

Ok, I have had enough laugh liaw......

Of Birthdays and dinners

Today, 2 most important people in my life are celebrating their 55th and 37th birthday respectively. My Mum and My husband..Interesting is it not? We have a interesting pattern as far as birthdays are concerned. U see, my birthday is just 3 days ahead of my dad's and my mum/Aloy's are 2 weeks 1 day after mine. So, U can imagine how much I have indulged as far as food is concerned.

Going to Thai Restaurant tonight for my mum's birthday dinner. As for Aloy's, we went to Restorante Beccari (Merdeka Palace) last night for it's Italian Buffet called a Tribute to their Chefs where they featured all the signature dishes that their past Chefs have created, so to speak. For only RM50++ we were "served" by 5 Chefs....I asked the ever-helpful restaurant manager whether all these 5 chefs were invited to prepare all their dishes of which he laughed and said impossible, since, well, one of them has passed on. The ever famous Chef Vittorio.....I learnt to love italian food from him (but of course, I love the Italian food even more, the more authentic ones after my trip to Italy) This promotion doesn't last long, mind you....It will only be held on all Sundays in the month of April. I did not manage to take any photos cos I don't want to be misunderstood for a reporter of which, coincidentally, there was a whole long table at the back consisted of several hungry-stricken reporters. I bet it's a free dinner for them to ensure that they'll go back to their respective newspapers and write a good review about the promotion. Honestly, they don't have to pay me to write a good review about the food.

Anyway, love the food, love the ever-helpful staff especially that long haired Restaurant Manager (cudn't remember his name though) who took some time to explaining to us about all the 5 past Chefs, love the price and most of all, I LOVE THE TOILET!!!!! It's so huge and spacious u can actually do a Cha-Cha inside...Alone, of course.....

Mama-Mia!

Happy Birthday to my 2 Dahlings!!!

Gonna lie low today...Today starts with a very tense feeling of what's gonna happen this afternoon. I'm in the midst of typing a very mean letter to an established Company and I'm just hoping that I might not need to use it....Can't disclose much of the contents though, might need to use it in Court later...We shall see....but like I've said, I hope I don't have to resort to violence.

Anyway, on a happier side of things, LL just called to tell me that we might be colleagues again very soon....she's been asked to go for an interview in one of our group of companies...in the same building!!!!!!!!

My Food Review 1 - My Restaurant

I'm going to start a Food Review Column.....Sound so like Anthony Bourdain eh??? I'm not doing something like most food bloggers will do...I don't go to places specifically for reviews...

Of course, you'll only get to see the local eateries, and once a while, if I'm lucky, KL or any other states, and if I'm double lucky, we might even look at eateries outside Malaysia.

We went to My Restaurant in Sama Jaya last night. Food is good, people are friendly, portion is big but can't say much on the deco and surroundings. More of a coffee shop style...anyway, for those pork lovers, this is sure a place for you....Definitely a non-halal place.

Check out what we had:

Complimentary - Garlic bread

My starter - Thick Cream of Mushroom Soup

Aloy's starter - Caesar Salad with a strip of bacon

My Main Course - "Chop, Chop, Chop" consisted of a piece of grilled chix, pork and a very generous piece of bacon, with some fries and boiled greens

Aloy's Main Course - Can't remember what it's called but it consisted of several pieces of BBQ pork, chix and pork sausage with a very generous helping of fries and fried onion rings.

All the above + 1 tropical fruit punch + 1 Ginger Ale = RM75.00

To curl or not to curl

Being my birthday today, I did something out of the ordinary.....went for a hairwash and out of curiosity, asked to have my hair curled (temporary, of course).....

It's my Birthday

Happy Birthday to me,

Happy Birthday to me,

Happy Birthday to me,

Happy Birthday to me.

It's my 33rd birthday today and I am so happy! I have so many wonderful people celebrating with me, though, of course, not at the same time...It started with a dinner on Friday with Long Legged and Mr T at Oregano and my 1st pressie came from them, with Mr T doing the wrapping.


The package








The Content - 6 sticks of Old Town 3-in-1 white coffee with 1 RM50 Digi reload coupon....how sweet!!!! This is in response to my decision to stop calling a 012 number! Judging from the frequency we sms-ed each other, the RM50 might not be able to stretch very far!



The finished product!









Another thing I must say, Long Legged is so choykiewish.....She actually used the Company's envelope to wrap the present....She was thinking of hiding it by covering it with a piece of paper....So Siaw Lee!!!

9 years of gifts from Long Legged - Part 2

I don't understand...I've managed to download and posted all the pictures that I have taken on the gifts except for the picture of the lacy bits.....I suppose my pc just doesn't allow that kind of publication....What a holy piece!

Anyway, I'm going dinner tonight with Long Legged and T - to celebrate my upcoming birthday! Yippee!

9 years of gifts from Long Legged - Part 1

Bought from KL. Has been servicing me even up to today

Keychain from Thailand

Candle from KL

2005 Christmas Pressie

Keychain from KL Mr Moo from KL

Customised vase from Sabah

Best Friend

Shucks!! As I was updating this blog this morning on the above subject, the internet connection suddenly fall dead on me and I lost everything that I've typed. Now I have to crack my head re-calling what I have typed this morning.Double Shucks! Computer is definitely not a best friend of mine!

I was talking about my best friends. I used to have a very good friend way back in primary school and we were both inseparable. However, we lost contact after she left for another state and though we promised to stay in touch, it never happen. That was my first. Then, later in my secondary years, I found a replacement and we continue being the best of friends until she left for another state to further her studies. We went a little further in the sense that we continue to write and phone each other at least once in 2 weeks. Unfortunately, the 2 weeks became 2 months, and then 2 years and now, it is like "I-don't-care-if-she-calls" kinda attitude. I realised that my relationship with both my then best friends were only bonded thru constant meeting and the phrase "Out of sight, out of mind" is really very very true. So, when I came accross a quote by Elisabeth Foley that says "The most beautiful discovery true friends make is that they can grow separately without growing apart" is nothing but bullshit.

However, I have different view about best friend after I met a certain long legged being. We started off as colleagues 9 years ago and later went our separate ways after our Company decided to call it a day and put us on retrenchment. We do still contact each other though not that frequent. We were made colleagues again in another company for a short while before I left for another job. Though we seldom meet (not as often as when were colleagues) and phone calls were not that frequent anymore (blame it on the higher cost of living), we are still the best of friends and there's nothing I would like to trade for a friend like her.

I was doing a bit of stock-take on the gifts that she bought me over the years and I'm still keeping them all until today. Amongst all the numerous gifts that she bought/gave, this is one "gift" from her that I cherished the most (Wonder whether she still remember this or not)

The content of that small pocket is so priceless that it's not a legal tender anymore.

Sarawak a place called Home?

I thought I saw the above phrase somewhere in town, couldn't remember where but that's beside the point. What I'm trying to say here is if Sarawak as at today is a place called home, I don't think I would like to be at home. There are just too many happenings lately of which no amicable solutions are achieved. For instance, the HFM disease. Despite the Government's assurance that everything is under control, why are we still getting new cases and to make matter worst, another fatality last Saturday? As I was buying lunch yesterday at my office food court, I noticed that there were lots of little little potential HFM victims playing around the public area. How do we justify that? How can we knock some sense into the parents' big head???? Likewise, when the Government instructed all kindies and nurseries to close, some parents actually took the opportunity to bring their children for a holiday at Damai or an evening walk at the waterfront or the new Friendship Park.

Put aside that, as most Sarawakians are busy talking about the disease and the recent fuel price hike, did anyone notice the very bad visibility in Kuching city? This photo was taken at 9.00am this morning from my office tower and as I type now, I noticed that the condition is getting worse. What surprises me is the non-publication of whatsover precautionary advice from the Ministry of Health. As usual, our neighbouring country Indonesia was blamed for this but did we realise that we, the Sarawakians are also contributor to this condition? Last Sunday, there was a huge fire at the chinese cemetery across Wisma Saberkas. I do understand that this is customary to make way for the upcoming Ghost Festival but is there no other alternative? I think it's high time that we should play a role in helping the Government to prevent all these happenings.

If nothing is done to contain all these dissasters, I don't think I would like to claim Sarawak as my Home. Should I start looking for a new Home, then?

Goodbye Mee Kuning (Yellow Noodle)

I have just found out that the yellow noodle (Yu Mee a.ka. Oily Noodle) has the highest content of borid acid and is actually banned. Check out the star publication.
http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2006/3/1/nation/13529402&sec

Yellow noodle is so unique that u can never replace it with any other types of noodle. Imagine what you can do with the yellow noodle:

1) Mee Jawa
2) Foochow Noodle
3) Mee Goreng Mamak Style
4) Mee Goreng Chinese Style (the sweet sweet one ah)
5) Fried noodle with clams
6) Mee Bandung
7) Mee Curry

and many many more. What do you think the taste will be if you replace it with something else, like kuew tiaw or beehoon???

I suppose instead of banning people from eating it, the Ministry should actually inspect the factory and order them to reduce the content of Borid Acid?? What do you all think????

Thrifty Me

Well, since the Government can't do much about the fuel increase and today's newspaper quoted our PM asking us all to be thrifty, http://www.thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2006/3/7/nation/13583616&sec=nationI have to play my part as a law-abiding citizen by doing my part in being a Ms Thrifty Spendy a.k.a Aunty Scrooge. This is what I pledge to do:(P/s shall let u all know how much I can survive such ordeal in a week's time)

1) Cut down my lunch expenses. Daily expenses should not exceed RM5.00. Accumulation is allowed. Sumptuous lunch is only allowed at the end of the month after accumulation of lunch allowance is sufficient. However, treat from friends are most welcome.
2) Cycle to work since petrol's price is so inhuman. Perhaps move somewhere nearby. There's a piece of empty land accross my office. Perhaps I could start building a house there.
3) Reduce my monthly spending on papers and crafts to only RM50.00
4) Only drink coffee or tea in the office. (I can save on my household expenses that way)
5) Do my business in the office (to save on water and toilet paper at home)
6) Shall only call/sms friends who are using the same network operator so that I could take advantage of the Family & Friends rate. To friends who are using a different network operator : Sorry guys, you wouldn't get anymore phone calls/sms from me.
7) No more shopping in KL. Will start patronizing places like Teck Kong, Ai Lee or Ngiu Kee. Purchase at Parkson is only allowed if there are sales.
8) No more Cliniques or Estee Lauder. Shall switch to Loreal or Kao Biore.....(hahahaha, took me quite a while to figure out the name)

There u have it. Wonder how much I can achieve out of that 8 items. We shall see....never underestimate the power of Ms Thrifty Spendy

Blame, Blame, Blame

3 days in a row, I arrived at the office very very late, all thanks to the bladdy traffic jam at my area. The jam was so bad and the heavy rain doesn't help a bit. I hate the rain, especially on a weekday, or rather on a Monday morning. What an irony, I love the rain yesterday and the day before.

Anyway, the jam today can be attributed to the following issues: (Disclaimer: This is only my thoughts, do not use this against me in the court of law or whatever that is)

1) People woke up late due to the 'nice' weather
2) Drivers were too slow/loso
3) Too many housing areas in my area
4) Too many $%^$%^ cars due to low interest rates/low down payment
5) Banks' employees who start work earlier due to the 5 days week thingy?
6) Limited road access

Who's to be blamed for the above?
1) All those lazy bums who slept late the night before (*whisper* and that includes me too :-)
2) All the half-awaked drivers
3) Developers/contractors
4) Car dealers/Banks
5) Banks
6) The council

On a separate issue, I think I need to have the battery of my alarm clock changed, or maybe I don't have to cos' hubby is coming back in 2 days' time and I can rely on him to wake me up and if he doesn't, I can add his name to the list of who's to be blamed. I hope he's buying me a live kangaroo or a wombat or an emu.......

I M SICK

I've been sick for the past 4 days. It all started with a bad sore throat on Thursday and I was so irritated with it that I ate a cone of rainbow coloured ice-cream during lunch. I was so happy the whole afternoon cos it actually helped to ease the discomfort. Oh, by the way, I believed in self-healing and I don't believe that a visit to the doc can help.

However, the night turned into a living nightmare for me. I was coughing and coughing non stop. For a moment, I thought I'm gonna cough out all the vital organs from inside. Anyway, come Friday and I looked like a zombie....My eyes were swollen and teary from the endless sneezing, my voice was coarse from the never-ending coughing the night before and my whole body was aching as if a 100kg metal safe has been dumped on me! My Boss came to my room unexpectedly and asked me whether I'm ok, and I gave him the most stupidest answer in the whole wide world. I told him that I am fine!!! Any fool can tell that I am half-dead and yet I told him that I'm FINE???? Shucks!

I finally gave in on Saturday night with a glass of panadol soluble and went straight to bed at 10.30pm (The earliest for a Saturday night) Oh, by the way, that was after I came back from a party!!!! Sunday morning came and I was feeling a bit better.

Though I still have the voice of Tina Turner today, at least I don't have the puffy eyes of Garfield!

You raise me up

I've, through mere coincidence, get to read about Josh Groban and his song, You Raise Me Up. This same song was also sung by Westlife in their newly released album.

I have copied the lyric of the song here and what a wonderful and meaningful song this is. Read the lyric and sing along and I'm sure you'll love this song too.

Without God, nothing is impossible and we are nothing without Him. Always trust in Him and pray to Him for guidance. He'll always raise us up when you are down and put us high on a pedestal.

You can read more about him and listen to the song at http://www.joshgroban.com/main_music_frame.html


You Raise Me Up – Josh Groban
When I am down and, oh my soul, so weary;
When troubles come and my heart burdened be;
Then, I am still and wait here in the silence,
Until you come and sit awhile with me.

You raise me up, so I can stand on mountains;
You raise me up, to walk on stormy seas;
I am strong, when I am on your shoulders;
You raise me up: To more than I can be.

You raise me up, so I can stand on mountains;
You raise me up, to walk on stormy seas;
I am strong, when I am on your shoulders;
You raise me up: To more than I can be.

There is no life - no life without its hunger;
Each restless heart beats so imperfectly;
But when you come and I am filled with wonder,
Sometimes, I think I glimpse eternity.

You raise me up, so I can stand on mountains;
You raise me up, to walk on stormy seas;
I am strong, when I am on your shoulders;
You raise me up: To more than I can be.

You raise me up, so I can stand on mountains;
You raise me up, to walk on stormy seas;
I am strong, when I am on your shoulders;
You raise me up: To more than I can be.

The Year that Was

I have decided to write after 2 months of silence. Don't worry, I'm still as healthy as ever, just a little busy, both at work and life.

2005 has been a very memorable year for me though I must say it brought more sadness then joy. Perhaps I should recap what has the year that was brought me thus far.

Let's start with the good one:
1) I've started my own blog. I find it easier to express my feelings by writing then to share with somebody.
2) Seriously ventured into my passion for cardmaking and crafts. Managed to secure 2 business deals. Though the profit is not great, at least I obtained self satisfaction from people's praises on the end result.
3) Continuation to Item 2, I've fulfilled part of my dreams of going overseas to check on all the various craft papers. Aloysius has been so kind as to help me in fulfilling this dream of mine cos without him, I might not be able to get there. He helped me in locating all the shops in Melbourne and has been very patient in bringing me around.
4) Minor family dispute that happened a couple of months ago was settled before the year end. My greatest achievement actually.
5) Bought my first polyphonic smartphone. Check out my previous blog.
6) Friends who cares for me are still with me, especially 1 particular friend who has never failed to comfort me when I'm sad, laugh with me when I'm happy and nag at me when she finds me a loso! Thanks D!
7) Did my long overdue blood test!

Sad moments:
1) Our family dog, Astro was put to sleep early Dec due to some terminal illness. He has been a faithful dog and we'll missed him greatly.
2) Can't overcome my obsession for crafts and paper. I should have put this as one of my resolution for the new year, ie not to overspent!
3) My car was badly damaged due to an accident that happened in August 2005 and we had a very long wait for the car to be repaired. Took me quite a while to overcome the trauma. Thank God it's over now.
4) Another good friend has stopped calling me all of a sudden........I'm not sure of his whereabouts and I'm worried about his health. I'll pray to God that he's ok.

Well, that's it.....Life is never a bed of roses and I must say that I have grown to be a more mature person and I hope that that this new year will bring joy and peace to one and all.

Happy New Year!