D'New Mrs

My Karat Blog

2010-03-13T08:24:00.000-08:00

Karat in our local Bahasa language means "rusty". Yeap, my blog's been rusty for a while now as I have not been updating it for months! Lil' modem was out of service for a while..and when it's back working..I was....kinda...Bzzzzzzzz...

Yep..Busy + Lazy. Ok, ok..maybe...Lazy first...but then also busy.

I met up with an old friend the other day, whom came to know about my blog. He cannot understand why people would wanna blog about their personal stuff on the web...for others to see. He just can't understand it.

So, what is the reason I blog? Nope, not that I want other people or strangers to read about my life. Not that I want to be famous or anything...well, I hope to make some money out of bloggin' but judging from my updates....I might as well keep it as a hobby.

So, why - he asked?

Hmm. To me, it is simple. I am keeping this blog in the hope that IF, one day I am not around or something terrible happen to me...I hope that the someone whom are close to me, will share a part of me - the joy, the laughter, the sillyness...or even the sadness...that I have gone through. Ok, not that it matters to anyone, but I guess, it will matter to someone CLOSE enough. Like my husband :)

On the other brighter side, I would also like to keep track of how my emotional rollercoaster evolve...as I grew up....older and wiser. Memories that I wish to cherish, and although we can keep it in our hearts, but trust me, it is so much different to read it again...at that exact point of time when you are penning it down. :D

"So complicated?!! Women!!"....hahaha...yes, that was his remarks...as he shook his head to disbelief.

He should see this movie. THAT is what I call COMPLICATED!! This story is about a successful Californian food store owner (Meryl Streep) - happily divorced from former husband (Alex Baldwin) for the last ten years, but on a trip to NY to attend their son's graduation, she starts and affair with him. Yep, imagine, an AFFAIR with ex-husband! He happens to be re-married to a younger woman (hmm...alwiz the younger ones) while she becomes involved with an architect (Steve Martin) Funny movie....

Chicken OR Egg?

2010-02-05T08:41:00.000-08:00

Sis was arguing with me, that Operations are far MORE important than Sales. Obviously, we are both from the different sides. Like everyone else I've ever known from the Backoffice, Operations, Production, etc, etc...everyone keeps saying that theirs are the MOST important of all.

Chicken? Egg?

Egg? Chicken?

How about omellete? :D

She complained that Sales people are too selfish and bring back sh*t too often for operations to clean up. *ahem* Well, that's because there are GOOD and BAD sales people. Those that brings sh*t = BAD sales people.

But that's besides the point.

If there are no SALES, there will be no work. SIMPLE. You can have an excellent team of operational people, but with no SALES, there are simply no work to do!

How can one undermine the importance of sales people? Without them, there will be no customers....and there will be no work for operations. Don't get me wrong here, I am not saying that operations are not important. They are important, as they support the business. But not the MOST important.

Unlike SALES. :) The REAL VIP in business.

Express Lunch @ Sushi Zen, Gardens

2010-01-15T23:19:00.001-08:00

Sushi Zanmai Pasta Zanmai Sushi Zen. How confusing can this be?

I was at Mid Valley and had a sudden craving for Jap food. I took a brochure and searched...and found Pasta Zanmai. Hmm...ok, decided to go and try! I flipped the menu and found that, errm, they serve mainly Pasta...well...that is why they were called Pasta Zanmai anyway. With my thick skin, I walked out at the restaurant and the waiters/waitresses were puzzled. Not until I told them, "I am actually looking for Sushi Zanmai, not Pasta Zanmai..sorry :P"
Apparently, they have an outlet at the Gardens! Cool!

I walked to the Gardens, then remembered this place I used to eat many moons ago. It was quite yummy that time - I think, back in 2007....Now, it's called Sushi Zen! Cool. I thought, maybe the waiter gave me wrong info - it is Sushi Zen. So, I sat down and ordered 2 dishes, my favourite grilled unagi roll and salmon belly. PLUS a chawanmushi. Drinks? Cold Green Tea.

When the salmon belly arrived, I stared at the dish for a little while, and took a picture. Hmm. It seriously didn't look yummy. Maybe it was the lighting. If I were to give points to this dish, I would give it only 3 out of 10. I won't say it is disappointing, but really not up to my expectation.

Next came my favourite STAMINA ROLL. Hmmm. Click and took a picture as well. Seriously, didn't look too good either. Points? I would give it only a 4. And the chawanmushi...geez...I have never tasted such disappointing chawanmushi before......2 points only...and that is because at least the egg is smooth.

Toro Salmon = RM 13.00, Stamina Roll = RM 12.80, Chawanmushi = RM 4.80 and my green tea is RM 1.00

All in, my lunch express cost me RM 36.35 (inclusive tax). Will I be back? Maybe 2nd chance? No Way!!! Especially when I find out that Sushi Zanmai is actually located at 3rd Floor, Gardens. Aiyayayayayayaya!!

PS: Looks yummy in photos right? That is because I edited it using Photoimpact :P What an amazing software tool!!

Bugsy Eye

2010-01-13T08:45:00.000-08:00

With Betsy around, we have created a whole new dictionary for use with the dog. Only those close to our dog will understand. Speak other ways, and my dog will give you that puzzled look..yup, she won't understand! Even my mum, speak 'em with ease!

New doggie words created:
Hat-cha-na-na = Aiyoyoyo

Hapidy hapidy = Very Happy

Cayang cayang = Love (Malays word "Sayang")

Yo Yo or Harro Harro = Hello.

He hu He hu = Sound made by my dog when she missed me (only me!)
Monster = My sister

We'd alwiz like to say it in pairs as it sounded a lot more fun =)

Mum was away for a holiday trip in Taiwan, leaving my dog and sis in the house. Knowing my sis, she will not be home early (as usual) and my poor dog will be left alone on the house. She does not allow me to bring the dog home (even though my dog begs me to) as she watched too much JU-ON and stuff like that.

On this day, my hubby was away...I was so darn tired and it's already 9pm+. I decided to leave my poor dog home alone, and drive back to my nest. However, I can't resist but to text msg her and it turned out to be a funny moment I would like to remember:

[Me] Where r u la?

[Sis] No La me shopping in mid valley
[Me] I m going back d. Very tired.
[Sis] I thot u sleep at mama house 2nite?

[Me] No place to park my car la. Tats y I balik

[Sis] Make sure girnie stays!

[Me] There is no dog dog in the house

[Sis] I see, ok tomorrow i lock her outside the house house

[Sis] I m so hungry i m eating at madam kwan's

[Me] Ohh pandainya enjoy. Kesian girnie, alone lone in the house. I shd've brought her wif me!

[Me] Eat fast, no nd to chew and go home asap. Poor big big eye girnie waiting for someone to go home fast

[Sis] I m sure she will not miss u and she will surelyu he hu he hu me wen i reach home nanti

[Me] Ya right. In ur dreams!

[Sis] Yes dun worry i will squeeze her bugsy eye wen i got home

[Me] Juz finish ur food n get home quick. If u not home soon, there will b no bugsy eye! Don't say I din warn u! Clock is ticking! Tick Tock Tick Tock!

[Sis] Tock Tock Tock your head la i just paid the bill. Will drop by Juscos and also eat dessert first la

[Me] U r supposed to b on diet. Skip the dessert n go home la. Or YOU will b alone lone in the house.

[Sis] Ha ha ha u are the one alone lone tonight. I on the other hand got bugsy eye with me

[Sis] Ur girnie so happidy happidy her head swing left right like lion dance wen i get home
[Me] Aiyo. Now oni home. Nx time, I will definitely take her home wif me!

A typical tug-of-dog war we always have! It is a clear fact that I am the master, while she is the monster. If given a choice, my dog would not think twice and follow me home. Unfortunately, I had to leave her behind to safeguard the house and the monster...haizzz.....

And why Bugsy eye? Yes, my dog have these big eyes like Bugsy! (from movie Bedtime stories)

Old Town Kopitiam @ LCCT

2010-01-13T01:00:00.000-08:00

Tring tring! Tring tring! Tring tring! 330am.
ZzzzzzZZZZZzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz.
Tring tring! Tring tring! Tring tring! AGAIN! 345am

This time, hubby jumped out of bed as he has a flight to catch @ 7am. Yes, 7am...he is always the "gun jiong" type while I still ZZZZzzzzZZZZzzzz. I have set my alarm at 410am...but the sound of him brushing his teeth, showering, etc, etc woke me up for good! Should I continue to Zzzzzz and let him take the bus from sentral (since he already bought the ticket).....*yawn*......

This is 2010!! I wanna be a better person! Ok! I will wake up!! *yawn* We reached LCCT at *yawn* about 510am...*yawn*. I was surprised to see such a long, long queue at the check-in counter. And looks like I am the only one whom is sleepy...all of them looked so refreshing....*yawn*

Hmmm...if I were to travel to Jakarta for holiday...I think, I will try to opt for other airline and not budget airline :P I didn't know there are just SO MANY Indonesians in our country!!!!!

Anyway, after the long queue...he finally check-in his flight at 530am. We then head to OLD TOWN for breakfast! Ahh....this is what he promised me for my effort to wake up so early! Kekekeke! I just love soft boiled eggs!! Yummy!!

I suddenly noticed this guy opposite our table. He looked left, right, left, right as if he wanna do something secretly. Hmmm. He had a cup of iced white coffee.... but he looked suspicious. Is he dangerous? What he's up to? I kept spying at him...until....he took out.....a white plastic bag...and chomp on the bun!! Laaa...he is bringing outside food to eat in Old Town. No wonder!!

Our bill came to about MYR 25/= which I find quite expensive for 2 white coffee, 2 set of soft boil eggs and bread!! Nevertheless..it was a yummy breakfast!!

We said our goodbyes around 610am...when I called him at 635am...he just passed the immigration. I hope he don't have to run to the flight!!!!

Anyway!! Blogged about this cuz it is the FIRST time he is travelling instead of me, after our marriage. 14th Jan 2010 to 15th Jan 2010. Jakarta. Without me.

My Baby's Back!!

2010-01-12T05:16:00.000-08:00

It is exactly 22 days. If we exclude the long holidays...the Christmas, the New Year...it will be 20days...if exclude the Sat & Sun, it will be 15 days!

Yes, my Altis is back in my possession again! Finally!! Looked as new as it can be :) The repair bill comes up to RM6k++...thank god MITSUI OSK is paying for this! Else, it will be a such a WASTE of money!! Especially when it wasn't my fault in the first place!! The fact that I skidded and ram onto the divider was because of spilled diesel on the road and no one bothered to clean it up!! Luckily I suffer no injuries....except for my poor heart...aching from the fact that, my car is only a few months' old :(

My ranting in this blog is not about the accident. It is about the really, really BAD experience I encountered at the TOYOTA service centre in PJ. Yes, unbelievable BAD experience!!

I can't believe they have no system in place when it comes to the BODY & PAINT section. (Not sure about other section) There is no queue number available. There is no one to attend to you. They just direct you to the section...and well....wait.

Huh? Wait where? Wait at any cubicle that is available... There are about 6-10 desks....but most, if not all are empty!! Apparently the service personnels are either busy servicing a client or out inspecting the car's damage!

I actually stood behind a man for and waited....10 minutes...20 minutes pass, still not my turn yet...and there is still no other person that is available to attend to me. ?????

I start to wonder if I am at the right place. Am I doing the right thing? Do I continue to stand until the person in front of me leave his/her seat...geez...it is worst than the governtment department. And we are talking about TOYOTA here. I thought, they could at least have a decent system or PROCESS in place.

Finally, I saw one TOYOTA personnel walking towards her desk...I quickly move towards her, thinking she could at least help me out. "Nope, please wait at either cubicle B or C". "But "B" is empty, while "C" is busy", I said. She replied "Well...just stand behind there and wait". OMG. Where am I??!! So, I got back and continue to wait

After 30 minutes, the guy got up and walked out with the service personnel. I would assume it it to inspect his car's damage. I quickly took the seat and wait.....again. Finally, it's gonna be MY turn. By this time, there is another couple behind me...waiting patiently.

When the service personnel return with the customer, they quickly fill up a few forms, update some info onto the computer and DONE! My turn...FINALLY.

This time, the woman behind me asked "Excuse me, do I wait here like this?" And our dearest replied "Yes. I am not free at this moment".

It is such a S...T... U... P... I... D experience...as if, people have nothing better to do. If TOYOTA can't afford a queue system, at least, they should have a decent process in place.

Two weeks later, I called to check on my car's status and guess what? According to the receptionist, no one can advise me except the mechanic in charge. Isn't it crazy? A simple enquiry like "When will my car be ready?" or "What is the status of my car?" met with grumpy response from the receptionist that she have no idea, can't help but can only pass me to person in charge.

How S-T-U-P-I-D can that be??!

Really, really a test of patience. If I were asked to rate their level of service, I will give it a thumbs down. Never expect such bad service from TOYOTA.

How do you measure a reward?

2010-01-11T06:36:00.000-08:00

Nothing is ever enough. If the boss gives a two month's bonus, you would think, you deserve more. If you get a 10% increment, you still think, you deserve more.

Hmmm.

I guess, if you have a certain level of expectation..then, it will never be enough. However, if it comes to you as a surprise, then, it'll be enough. No question about it....cuz, you are SURPRISED by it. Never expected it to happen.

Even when the reward is a personal gesture...you tend to have certain level of expectation. But then, when you think about it...it is a personal gesture....it is up to the giver...not something compulsory...the giver certainly doesn't owe you anything!

But still, if you are unaware of such reward and it comes suddenly, you will be delighted to receive. But if you are aware of the reward, but have been playing the guessing game....it can be rather difficult to be happy. After all....we are human being....never contended, never enough.

Grateful, yes. Enough......nope. Sadly, this is the real world. Homosapiens ARE greedy. We want more money, more love, more understanding, more opportunity, more luck, more friends, more, more, more of the good things (of course).

We are after all, ONLY human. :)

Village Park Nasi Lemak

2010-01-10T04:57:00.000-08:00

This place just need no introduction. It's a lazy lazy Sunday, and it was already pack with people. Luckily there's an empty table, hubby already queued up for our order! Yep, if you queue up yourself, it'll be much faster!

I personally luv the fried chicken that goes with the nasi lemak. The "rempah" that they use to marinate the chicken is simply awesome! In fact, I find it taste much much better than Madam Kwan's. The price? Only RM 4.90 for one whole yummy, juicy and crispy chicken thigh! Add another RM 2 and you'll get the fragant nasi lemak with ayam goreng! There is DEFINITELY a SECRET INGREDIENT here!

We left the place feeling so happy :) - such a satisfying brunch on a Sunday! Go try it out, it is located in Damansara Uptown. (the row of shops opposite Alliance Bank) If you still can't find, call them at 03-77107860. This shop is open from 7 am to 7.30pm daily while 7 am to 6 pm on Sunday/Public Holiday. Go, go...must try!

It has this strictly NO LAPTOP/NOTEBOOK usage sign. Judging from the size of the crowd, it is only considerate that you don't do so! Many people are waiting for table...so, be nice =)

If Tomorrow Never Comes

2010-01-09T08:13:00.001-08:00

What will happen to my money? What will happen to my car? My house? My works? My outstanding lists of to-do, should've done but not done yet list?

Although Ronan Keating's romantic question was "Would she ever knew how much I loved her?"

But let's be realistic. There are so much more than how much I loved him. At least, I will let him know today..and everyday.

But those secrets? Those things you wanna do? Hmm.

I have decided to list down all I have, and what I wanna do IF tomorrow never comes. But, I have to decide, to whom I should share this list with. Hmm. And this list has to be updated as things around us change, and tomorrow is here! Hmm. It would be exhaustic too.

It would be nice to have people know about my thoughts. At least the ones closed to me. And this blog will serve for that purpose :)

The other secrets? My Swiss Bank account? The hole I dig to stash my jewelleries? Kakakaka...I wish I had THAT much amount of money!

Anyway, gotta pen it down...just in case..."It's called the circle-of-life folks" - go visit http://www.nataliedee.com for more fun comics.

Monday Blues

2010-01-03T05:46:00.000-08:00

In less than ten hours from now, I will be back to work! Sigh...work, work and work. Not to mention that I have to travel to SG on Wednesday.

After such long holiday and lazy week, it is hard to imagine 2010 is here. And tomorrow, is the beginning of another year of work, work and work. If only money grow on trees, or fall from the sky...

Just need to get the engine started...

Happy Birthday!! Aiyoyo 2010 d...

2010-01-01T03:36:00.000-08:00

Every year without fail, my hp will be flooded with smses from friends and family/relatives wishing me HAPPY NEW YEAR and HAPPY BIRTHDAY. The BBQ ended around 1am++ and by the time we reach home and shower, it is almost 3am!

Somehow, my tummy feels funny. I feel bloated and my hubby asked me to apply the Minyak Cap Kapak before going to sleep. Sigh. I woke up around 5am+ and OMG - I had diarrhea. Darn. It must be that uncook BBQ fish. Ohhh.

I have counted the number of times I went to the toilet - 10 times. 2010, and I have to poo 10 times today. I feel so weak and sleepy. ZzzzzZZzzzzzz.

I finally woke up around 3pm and my tummy was ok. The diarrhea have stopped!! Yippee! Feeling fresh and hungry, I decided to cook some Korean noodles soup (sound professional but it is actually those instant noodle lah) and added some fishball. Yummy!! For drinks, I have prepared the Isotonik REVIVE (thank god we have it in the fridge) and we both sat down and had out late, late lunch.

"How about tonight? You wanna go out for dinner?" Hubby was suggesting we go somewhere for dinner to celebrate my birthday. Although I really crave Jap food that day, but after the diarrhea episode...I think I would give up sashimi for a while. Instead, I would want to have a quiet and simple dinner. So, I called my mum and told her that we'll be home for dinner since she is cooking, anyway.

We had a simple dinner at mum's house and we left around 10pm. It was raining, and I always feel romantic when it rains. Hehe. It could be the sound of the rain tapping on the window pane, or it could be the sight of rain droplets on the windscreen. I just love it, moreso if I am at home.

Anyway, hubby doesn't feel like going home yet. We decided to have a cuppa at the new Pappa Rich outlet near our place. It was pack with people. Thank god there is a place for two. He ended up ordering a Nasi Lemak while I ordered the delicious Naan with Curry Chicken.

A simple birthday this year...maybe it is due to age, I am beginning to like it :) ZzzzzZZZZzzzz...

Our 1st Anniversary =)

2009-12-27T06:57:00.000-08:00

Time really, really flies! Today, one year ago, I am still at the Emperor Garden Restaurant, waiting for all the guests to leave, packing, etc.

Today, hubby planned for a dinner to celebrate our 1st anniversary. After ordering our food, he mumbled that he need to go to the toilet or something, and left the table.

Within minutes, he walked back to our table with a bouquet of roses and a card =). OMG! This really took me by surprise!!!! He even asked the waiter to help take a picture of us!!! Wahhh. My husband. So spontaneous and "brave" =P

Thinking back, we used to come to this place during our courting days. And that was like more than 15 years ago. Until today, thank god the restaurant is still in business 'cuz, we will order the same food (almost same) each time we dine here. Hehehe! And the best part is, we both will never get tired of it =P

Actually, it is the butter garlic sauce that is such a yummy yummy!! Either 1/2 or 1 dozen, it's a MUST-HAVE!! Doesn't matter what we'll be ordering as our main, this dish must not be missed!

After ALL these years, he still luv the sizzling chicken! Come to think of it, he luvs anything that SIZZLES!! (oooooooo) He will sometimes go for mixed grill...but most of the time, this is his favourite dish!

And mine, is the Chicken Maryland! Luv the banana fritters, simply the best!! Fried food are alwiz the best, although alwiz the most unhealthy!! But still, this is the best place to have Chicken Maryland...after ALL these years! INCREDIBLE!!

Knowing that I will definitely blog about this special moment, I asked the waiter to help to take one more picture before we leave. =)

Heartache

2009-12-16T07:36:00.000-08:00

Ouch! It really does hurt! =(

It was a perfect Wednesday morning (and so I tought), I have an important meeting with "new" boss (maybe, new) at 10am....and I remembered the faulty traffic light yesterday, so I decided to take the alternative road. Slowly...I mean slowly I make a turn to the left and OMG..I totally LOST control of the car and it skidded all the way to the right and hit the road divider!! It happened so fast! Luckily there wasn't any cars behind me!! I was calm..I slowly drive my car to the road shoulder, sat for a while....remain calm.....then came down and inspect the "injury". OH NO! MY poor 1227!! Darn!

Two guys came over, and told me that they, too skidded minutes before me! Apparently, someone must've poured some diesel onto the road - according to one motorist. He was cursing and swearing, his bike is "gone", "KAPUT"!

I looked around at the place for a while...hmm...who would do such a cruel thing? I would think that there could be a small accident earlier, thus spilling small amount of petrol/diesel on the road...

Gosh, 9:20am!!! I quickly got back to my car, start the engine - gotta rush so as not to miss my appointment!! Hmm. Something's not right. The power sterring seemed to have lost it's "power". I tried to manouvered it..but gave up after a few tries. Better be safe than sorry! So, I left my car on the roadside, call for SOS and rush off for my appointment!

Darn, I cannot MISS the appointment nor can I be late!!

What a day!! Rephrase: What a bad, bad day!!

The GYM?

2009-12-15T07:59:00.001-08:00

Every night when I head home, I can't help but feel as though I will die. No kidding. I have counted, over and over. 8 x 10 = 80. No, no, I am not 80 years old...

Everyday, sometimes, twice a day or more (if it does happen, I will surely curse) I have to climb 80 steps to reach my home sweet home. The STAIRS is killing me!!! This is so much true as I grew shorter and shorter as each day goes by =P

I am so not fit. So not healthy. At least, for my age. Hubby can breeze up carrying tonnes of stuff in a minute while I have to struggle as if I am climbing Mount Everest!

I can't complain much as I was the one whom chose to have this unit. Despite everyone telling me the cons of climbing stairs (they just knew me so well) - I insist to have the unit at the highest floor. I want the view. I want the privacy. And heck, I can handle the stairs...that was what I thought!

I have been staying here for almost a year now, and I still huff and puff everyday! I really pray I don't fall or suddenly die of a heart attack, or worst, stroke!

Maybe it is time to join the gym again? Hmmmmmmmmmmmmm....................

Live Like We're Dying - Kris Allen

2009-12-15T07:20:00.000-08:00

Sometime we fall down and can’t get back up
We’re hiding behind skin that’s too tough
How come we don’t say I love you enough
Till it’s too late, it’s not too late

Our hearts are hungry for a food that won’t come
We could make a feast from these crumbs
And we’re all staring down the barrel of a gun
So if your life flashed before you, what would you wish you would’ve done

Yeah… gotta start
Looking at the hand of the time we’ve been given here
This is all we got and we gotta start thinkin’ it
Every second counts on a clock that’s tickin
Gotta live like we’re dying

We only got 86 400 seconds in a day
To turn it all around or throw it all away
We gotta tell ‘em that we love ‘em while we got the chance to say,
Gotta live like we’re dying

(Continued after the jump)
Well if you plane fell out of the skies
Who would you call with your last goodbyes
Should be so careful who we live out of our lives
So when we long for absolution, there’ll be no one on the line

Yeah… we gotta start lookin’ at the hand of the time we’ve been given here
This all we got and we gotta start thinkin it
Every second count on a clock that’s tickin
Gotta live like we’re dying

We only got 86 400 seconds in a day
to turn it all around or throw it all away
We gotta tell ‘em that we love ‘em while we got the chance to say,
Gotta live like we’re dying

Like we’re dying oh…
Like we’re dying
Like we’re dying oh…
Like we’re dying

We only got 86 400 seconds in a day
to turn it all around or throw it all away
We gotta tell ‘em that we love ‘em while we got the chance to say,
Gotta live like we’re dying

You never know a good thing until it’s gone
you never see a crash until its head on
All these people right when we’re dead wrong,
You never know a good thing till it’s gone

Yeah… we gotta start lookin’ at the hand of the time we’ve been given here
this all we got and we gotta start thinkin it
Every second count on a clock that’s tickin
Gotta live like we’re dying

We only got 86 400 seconds in a day
to turn it all around or throw it all away
We gotta tell ‘em that we love ‘em while we got the chance to say,
Gotta live like we’re dying

Like we’re dying oh…
Like we’re dying
Like we’re dying oh…
Like we’re dying

We only got 86 400 seconds in a day
to turn it all around or throw it all away
We gotta tell ‘em that we love ‘em while we got the chance to say,
Gotta live like we’re dying

To give or not to give...

2009-12-14T08:05:00.000-08:00

It is always wonderful to receive gifts from friends. The thoughtfulness is simply overwhelming. One can easily tell if the gift was chosen with a heart, or if it is just a pick-and-get-it-done-with type of gift. Nevertheless, the time the person have to spend to go to the mall, to pick up that gift, get it wrapped and deliver to you...is all very thoughtful.

It is just like choosing cards. I will spend hours to choose a card =P. I will make sure that I read the card carefully, and I will only pick the one that somehow "connects" to the person I want to send.....
Christmas is coming soon. I have been wanting to get him this gift, but I know, if I do...I will end up having a "similar" gift from him too. Men will be men. They must return you with something "similar"....well, at least my hubby will.

So..should I or should I not? Hmmm...

Pasta De Gohan

2009-12-10T06:48:00.000-08:00

People DO change!! For the umpteenth time, I am EARLY!! AGAIN!!

In order not to forget where I park my car.. I alwiz snap a pic with my hp =). And, not only do you snap at the carpark, it is VERY important that you snap the first shop you see when you exit from the lift!! Yes, I have "lost" my car many, many times. Sunway Pyramid too, remind us to do the same - pay attention to the lil' poster on the pillar:

Our eating place today is at PASTA DE GOHAN. Proudly claimed that their pastas are all the way from Japan (erm, I didn't know Japan is famous for pasta :P) Lots of Pasta choices available and it looks yummy too! While waiting for our VIP, we decided to order some snacks to fill our empty stomach:

The takoyaki is simply delicious...mmm....(or mahybe I am hungry) while the garlic toast is, well, a garlic toast. =) The cafe is relatively small, but can see that it is packed. I can't help but feel warm in here :P As we did our little exchange gifts for xmas, our VIP finally arrived!! And it was already almost 830pm! Luckily we had our snacks earlier =P

We ordered 2 plates of Salmon & Spinach fetucinne, and one dinner set that comes with chicken pilaf, creamy soup and potato pizza toast! It was yummy! I love the wafu creamy sauce in my pasta and the creamy soup! It goes so well with the garlic toast...sllurrppp!!

And, if you add MYR2/= you'll get this delicious desert that comes with the dinner set! Heeeee.. thanks to Bet, whom pass on this mouth-watering dessert from her dinner set for me! Calories? What calories????

Men Loves Shopping too!

2009-12-06T08:23:00.000-08:00

If you have been to a PC fair event, you will find it true! So so true! Hundreds, if not thousands of men found at the KL Convention Centre - busy checking out the latest technology, bargaining (yes, they do!) and testing the gadgets, etc, etc. My brother, can spend hours in a PC fair! HOURS!

It has been so many years since I last went to a PC fair, and my recent trip is really an eye-opener. From notebooks to GPS to cameras, you can hardly find a clone PC booth nowadays. Maybe it's the rental? Hmm, probably...

One thing for sure, you can see pretty babes almost everywhere! So, who is saying PC Fair is boring? And when I did a search on PC Fair, wow...you can even find collections of the PC Babes photos..Here's one that I found:

And yes, you can view more at this tomyam website =P

Thing is, how can men said they don't understand SHOPPING and WOMEN?! Clearly at PC fair, they are doing the same thing as we do!! My hubby whom always tells me he can't understand why we need to walk few shops to buy a pair of shoes......can now go to few shops to buy a PC. Select this, try that,compare the brands of graphic cards, and compare prices....again and again. And there I was, sitting and almost fall asleep....although the PC is for me =P

So, who says MEN don't love shopping!!

The Tale of TWO dogs...

2009-12-05T08:20:00.000-08:00

What a lovely program! Easy to use, and I manage to complete this slides within minutes! Highly recomended! Many designs available too! ENJOY this short clip I did for my beloved Betsy =)

Mushroom Jack

2009-11-25T09:03:00.000-08:00

It's a MUST HAVE whenever I dine at Chilies. It is such a delicious meal with or without the tortila wrap. Actually, I would prefer without!

Today is my dearest nephew's birthday, and we decided to have Lunch @ Chilies. I luv Chilies. I personally prefer Chilies than TGIF. The food is simply yummy, especially the Mushroom Jack. Yummy!!

Mid Valley was super duper jam! As it was a working day, I decided not to waste time, and paid the valet RM 10 to park my car (which cost me only RM 1 on weekday). No choice, time is of essence. Luv this "luxury" treatment. Stop your car in front of Mid Valley, get down, hand them the car keys, took the valet coupon and off to Chilies!! Wow! Valet Parking....luv it :) Suddenly, I feel like a VIP..haha!

Silly jokes and great food! We all had a great time!!

Retype my sms here for dearest nephew: "Happy Birthday 2u! May you have more leng luis chase after u. Hope you had a great time today!!"

Yes, he is a hottie in school =P

Shhh...and LISTEN

2009-11-12T08:40:00.000-08:00

I would like to think that I am a good listener. I can listen for hours and will occassionally utter "hmmm"..."yeahh"..."ok"....."it will be fine, don't worry"...

And, I still remembered this occassion with a friend 2 years ago. I was out clubbing late until wee hours in the morning, and there she was...staying awake @ 4am, waiting for me to come back to pour her heart out...and it continued till 8am NON-STOP!

..and tonight, this guy just whine non-stop. Yes, a guy. Nothing fishy here, he's just too darn stressed. Blah blah blah and blah. My advise is always this: "Why worry over something that you have no control whatsoever? It already happened, there will be no point worrying anymore. What's done is done. If there's damage, then, damage is done....

I find that, by listening to people..I learn more about them. Their views, feelings, etc and most importantly, their personalities. It is from this experience, I learn how to manage the friendship. So, there is an advantage. =)

I talk a lot too, but mostly to my mum. She knows the MOST information about me, my life and everything/everyone around me. Maybe, I inherited this trait from her. Mum is really and excellent listener with lots of patience.

Listen to hear. How true.

Glass half empty or half full?

2009-11-04T04:11:00.000-08:00

The acquisition is confirmed. Our company has been sold off to an Aussie firm. I proceed to address the staff, as I do not wish for them to find out from 3rd party.

As expected, they were all concern. At least, in the beginning. Who wouldn't? But after several explanation and jokes, yes jokes, all seems to be ok :)

Change is not an easy thing, but it is inevitable. We must learn to change and adapt to new situation in order to survive. And I would like to see it from a positive angle. Benefits, I am sure, will be improved. Process flows, will be fine tuned and realigned. Etc, etc.

It is always a question of 1/2 full or 1/2 empty? Embrace the challenge, life would be more interesting when we see it 1/2 full!

A woman's mind

2009-11-03T09:35:00.000-08:00

Being a woman myself, I must admit that we are one extremely complicated being. Men often say we think too much. I must admit, we do. It is as if, there is an invisible crystal ball that tells us what to expect in the future. This is especially true when we encounter a problem/crisis.

The very natural instinct of a woman will start asking questions, why, how, what, when, etc. And it will sometimes, mess us up so much, it reduce us to tears.

I think the song from Beyonce says it so true:

If I were a BOY
I think I could understand
How it feels to love a girl
I'll swear I'll be a better man

Men from MARS...Women from VENUS. Hmmmm...COMPLICATED. How true...
.

Facebook n Me

2009-10-25T08:52:00.000-07:00

Each time I log into Facebook, can't help but feel bad for my slow response (sometimes, none). I try not to add in new friends request as I can't barely manage the existing ones now. Rather to let them think that I am too busy to add them, then to add, and dissappear. Which one is worst?

Each time there's an update, there will be email sent to my gmail. I will sigh. Cuz I know, by the time I finish reading all my emails, I would give Facebook a pass. Poke, Wall, Quiz...geee. Just too time consuming to me. I am already finding it hard to keep my blog updated, how can I have the time for Facebook?

So, friends and acquaintances...if you do send me a note and there wasn't any response, please forgive me. Facebook is just not my thing...at least, at this moment. Maybe later...when I can find more time....

Sad to say Goodbye

2009-10-01T06:02:00.000-07:00

Today will be the last day Cecil work at our Manila office. She have her own reasons leaving the company, reasons that I think I would understand, after working for so many years. But it is sad.

The first time I met Cecil was in Shanghai during one of our Management meeting. It was an unbelievable experience!! Apart from the usual lunch, dinner, etc - we went for a spa and all the girls, including Cecil were sitting in the hot sauna room. Haha, I still remember how we try not to look at each other and act normal :P

Our next meeting in Manila was hosted by Cecil's office. She made such wonderful arrangement that all of us agreed, it raised our standards (after all these years). Her team spoke fondly of her, and from the various skype chats we had, Cecil is indeed a wonderful person. Very, very thoughtful person.

I am so blessed to have known her :) I can only wish her all the best in her future endeavour. Hopefully, I can find the time to travel to MNL and have coffee with her soon!

Tremors shook Malaysia

2009-09-30T05:20:00.000-07:00

I was speaking to a colleague, and it was already after official working hours...I told her to rush it for me before she go home...and she quickly obliged and began to "sprint" out of my office. Yes, "sprint". Youngsters. Hehe.

As she "sprinted" away, I suddenly felt my room swayed. "Oh no! Do I REALLY have high blood pressure??" Then, it stopped. It was a mere few seconds only. Next, I hear a small "thumping" noise on the walls...no cracks...but the "thumping" was non-stop..."Dup..dup..dup.." No, no..not the sound of my hearbeat. I stared at the spot and shouted to one of my colleague to witness this funny sound! "Hmm...how can they allow renovation to such an extend?" Well, that was my first thought! =P until I hear the girls on top of their voice feeling the tremor! Tremor?? Huh? What?

All of us gathered in the centre, and spoke about the funny incident. Yes, all of us thought that, it was because of the really powerful "sprint". We were laughing away, until I thought.."Oi, if really earthquake, we better leave now ok?" And yes, my other colleague confirmed it was a TREMOR. (He was on the phone with a client whom also felt the same thing)

All of us started to pack, shut down our PCs and begin to leave the office. Wow, imagine, we STILL "pack" and "shut down" our computers. And we even took our cars and quickly drive out of the building.

Lesson 1.
We should just run down the stairs (some even took the lift) and OUT of the building.
FORGET about the computer, the car, everything. Stay calm.

So, what to do in the event of a REAL earthquake? Would it ever hit Malaysia? Hmm...never say never, I was told. Googled and found http://www.fema.gov/hazard/index.shtm

This site list out all types of disaster and explain clearly on what to do, and what not to do.

Although we didn't have an earthquake in Malaysia today, it is useful information that I think all of us should be aware:

What to Do During an Earthquake
Stay as safe as possible during an earthquake. Be aware that some earthquakes are actually foreshocks and a larger earthquake might occur. Minimize your movements to a few steps to a nearby safe place and stay indoors until the shaking has stopped and you are sure exiting is safe.

If indoors
* DROP to the ground; take COVER by getting under a sturdy table or other piece of furniture; and HOLD ON on until the shaking stops. If there isn’t a table or desk near you, cover your face and head with your arms and crouch in an inside corner of the building.
* Stay away from glass, windows, outside doors and walls, and anything that could fall, such as lighting fixtures or furniture.
* Stay in bed if you are there when the earthquake strikes. Hold on and protect your head with a pillow, unless you are under a heavy light fixture that could fall. In that case, move to the nearest safe place.
* Use a doorway for shelter only if it is in close proximity to you and if you know it is a strongly supported, loadbearing doorway.
* Stay inside until shaking stops and it is safe to go outside. Research has shown that most injuries occur when people inside buildings attempt to move to a different location inside the building or try to leave.
* Be aware that the electricity may go out or the sprinkler systems or fire alarms may turn on.
* DO NOT use the elevators.

If outdoors
* Stay there.
* Move away from buildings, streetlights, and utility wires.
* Once in the open, stay there until the shaking stops. The greatest danger exists directly outside buildings, at exits, and alongside exterior walls. Many of the 120 fatalities from the 1933 Long Beach earthquake occurred when people ran outside of buildings only to be killed by falling debris from collapsing walls. Ground movement during an earthquake is seldom the direct cause of death or injury. Most earthquake-related casualties result from collapsing walls, flying glass, and falling objects.

If in a moving vehicle
* Stop as quickly as safety permits and stay in the vehicle. Avoid stopping near or under buildings, trees, overpasses, and utility wires.
* Proceed cautiously once the earthquake has stopped. Avoid roads, bridges, or ramps that might have been damaged by the earthquake.

If trapped under debris
* Do not light a match.
* Do not move about or kick up dust.
* Cover your mouth with a handkerchief or clothing.
* Tap on a pipe or wall so rescuers can locate you. Use a whistle if one is available. Shout only as a last resort. Shouting can cause you to inhale dangerous amounts of dust.

Wow. Interesting.

Bridal Magazine - Feb Edition

2009-09-19T10:55:00.000-07:00

Wow! Look at this fabulous Bridal magazine!! Quick, grab it from your nearest bookstore!

Hehehehehehehe....

Skeleton in the closet?

2009-09-15T10:02:00.000-07:00

Skeleton in the closet? What would you do if you find out about the darkest secret of your other half? Would you pretend not knowing? I tried. Really.

Do I have any secrets? Yes I do. Everyone does. But the painful part is when one finds out about it. If it is forever hidden, I guess, no one will get hurt. So, if you do have one, becareful not to let it out, otherwise..don't keep one.

Better to forget, than to remember? Some people would choose to forget, but not me. Anything that happened, happy or sad, I wish to pen it down. Learn from it, if it is a bad decision. Celebrate if it is a wise one.

Will I heal? Time will heal, I am sure. Just need more time...

Internet Porn

2009-09-12T09:36:00.000-07:00

It is now easier to get your hands on porn than ever before. A man doesn’t even have to work up the nerve to walk into an adult video store anymore, but can instead in the privacy of his own home simply download to his heart’s content a dizzying array of pornographic content.

Firstly, porn and kids. Urrgh. Imagine the damage. Yes, you can install filters, etc...but it seeps to them via emails, via chat messages, etc. How do you educate them that it is damaging to them? Would they understand?

Porn and adults. Especially in marriage. Well, we don't need the filters. We are matured enough to know the limit. Do we? So, when do you draw a line?

Unfortunately, it is a multi-billion dollar business. Just like smoking, porn is additive. So, what can we women do about it? Embrace it? Or simply put, there is nothing we can do about it. Yes, we all learn a thing or two...at least shock you of the things that two humans (or more) can do to each other.

So, is it right or wrong? My opinion...it is wrong, sick and disgusting.

Sorry guys, I am a human..ermm..woman after all.

Pyzam who?

2009-08-29T08:19:00.000-07:00

Both niece & nephew stayed over at our place during the National Day Holiday. The thing they loved most....must be the wireless modem! Both of them can now surf the internet without having to fight!

My niece showed me her friends' blog. OMG...teenagers today =P. Just the other day, my sis made this remark that she doesn't understand why people would want to blog. It is like writing a diary and showing it to the whole wide world. Indeed. Diaries, used to be so private...while a blog is public. Of course, you can still protest your own privacy by simply not telling the person your URL. So much sharing over the web with friends, and stangers!

Anyway, while helping her to rebuild her blog - I have discovered many gadgets and stuffs that can be placed onto a blog. Mixpod is one of them. Gosh..I didn't know it exist. Hehe. Anyway, I found more stuff and noticed, this website: http://www.pyzam.com - there are just so much stuff there. Fabulous page for youngsters! *ahem* I luv it too, though...

How true! So, stop sulking people....live the moment :)

Selamat Tinggal Bali

2009-08-20T09:43:00.000-07:00

Time flies when you are having a good time! It was almost 10am when we woke up...we quickly headed to the restaurant for breakfast. Can't believe they are serving BUFFET breakfast here! Instead of 2 slices of bread and just ONE portion of egg for the past few days, today we can feast on unlimited eggs, fried meehoon, fried rice, bread, fruits, etc. Free flow of juices, coffee, etc...

After our breakfast, we decided to head to the nearest departmental store MATAHARI to check if they sell nice t-shirts. Quite disappointing...nothing special here. Reputed to be the dept store chain with a pan Indonesian presence with four branches in Bali. Hmmmm. No comment. After a quick tour, we headed back to the hotel as we need to check-out by 12pm. Unlike Malaysia where hotels normally allow you to extend check-out time FOC, you will be charged in Bali. Not even one (1) hour extra. If you want to, you pay.

We left our bags at the security, and our flight back to KL was at 2015
- we still have PLENTY of time. We took a cab to KUTA Art Market, but again, was dissappointed. Most of the stores are selling clothes, didn't see much "art" here. Not satisfied, we took a cab to LEGIAN market...still, most of the stores are selling clothes. Sigh.

A glance at the watch...WOW...12pm already! We stumbled upon KFC and decided to give it a try! Both of us shared 2 pcs of Black-Pepper Chicken, and a waffle! YUMMY! It was NICE =)

Before heading off to the beach, we decided to stop at HARD ROCK CAFE store to purchase some souveniers. Managed to buy a shirt for myself RP 225,000, and my nephew's at RP 195,000....YAY!

Finally, we reached KUTA beach! No serious tide...but can see many people surfing, anyway. Except for the waves (which occur in the evening) - this place looked like any Malaysian beaches minus the many gwailos and surf boards...

While walking on the beach, we were trailed by endless locals trying to sell us umbrellas, caps, beach mats, tatoo, hair braiding, manicure, pedicure, etc, etc, etc. Pretty annoying...One lady kept following me and pestering me to do hair braiding...offering me at RP 200,000....I said "No".....kept trailing me....RP 150,000...again, said "Tidak mahu lah"...RP 100,000....I told her..."Laa..tak nak ler" but she just won't give up. In the end, I agreed to do it at RP 50,000...will see how I look like with braided hair.

It took them about 1/2 hour to complete the task...hubby watched how they do it, and told me that he learnt the art and can help me do it in when back in Malaysia! Errm, but wait...does it look nice? *ahem* I had to put on my sunglasses! Yikes, it makes my face oh so ROUND!! Unfortunately, what's done is done...$$ already paid, will take some pics and leave it on until I reach Malaysia la. At least show it to my mum & sis!!

We still have SO MUCH time left. We have done enough shopping already...we can't go swimming as we already check-out...OMG....we have ABSOLUTELY NOTHING to do anymore!

The weather was darn hot...finally, we decided to enjoy some air-conditioning and spotted a familiar place...PIZZA HUT. What a relief!! Bali is really HOT & HUMID. We ordered fruit juices and a small pizza to share (yeah, more food)...and most importantly..to kill time! Snapped some silly photos...tick tock tick tock....geez, still LOTZ of time.

Hmm...we can't be sitting here all day! Even the waitresses kept asking is we would like to reorder (although the restaurant was quite empty).
Ok, that's it. We decided to go back and hailed a cab back to our hotel.

The weather is really killing me...it was so so so hot! Tak boleh tahan ler...ended up at this restaurant again (just across our hotel). It was a nice restaurant...cooling.....Then, a brilliant idea struck me!! To kill time, we decided to write down and analyse our trip expenses...hehe...what a good idea!! OMG...Didn't realise that we bought so much things until we really WRITE it down!

Finally, time is up! We headed back to the hotel which is just across the street and hop on to the van provided by the hotel....to the airport! See, airport transfer is provided by FOC by the Hotel which would otherwise, cost us another RP 55,000!

Adios Bali! We will be back...the next time, will ensure our hotel is booked way in advance!

Don't Let The Sun Go Down..

2009-08-19T11:36:00.000-07:00

"Wait!!"... the sun was dissappearing fast! See that TINY lil' round yellow thingy in the middle of the sea? That's the sun! We haven't even reach our seat yet and the sun was in a hurry to dissappear!

Oh, not "we"... it's only ME. Hubby went to the gents, and missed the whole "sun going down on me" thing! I only manage to capture the above shot to show him...it was only seconds!

Jimbaran Bay...lines of tables and chairs by the beach, setup in sunset-viewing position.
White sandy beaches...subtle wind...sound of the waves.....candlelight...definitely a MUST for couples! It is indeed a romantic place =)

Dinner comes in various sets with various pricing. We ordered the grilled seafood set plus a BBQ chicken. All meals are served with rice, veggies, and a variety of Balinese spicy sauces and dips. Price wasn't cheap at all. Our dinner easily cost us RP500,000 =P Served on banana leaves, thank god the food was delicious...or maybe we're hungry??

Would I go back to Jimbaran the 2nd time? Hmm. Well, yeah..why not? But the next time, will make sure I get a better deal...and ensure I reach the place at 6pm, at least! =)

After dinner, we headed back to Legian where we'll be staying for the final night. Nyoman mistakenly took us to Harmony at Seminyak. Alamak! Wasted some time there, but we finally reached Harmony Legian! Phew!

Luwak n such

2009-08-19T09:37:00.000-07:00

Next, we arrived at a coffee & cocoa plantation. We were served with complimentary Bali Coffee, Ginseng Coffee, etc, etc. Free tobacco leaves too, where you can wrap in a piece of paper and smoke like a cigarette.

Introducing kopi LUWAK - "The secret of this delicious blend," enthuses the Indonesia Tourism Promotion Board, "lies in the bean selection, which is performed by a luwak, a species of civet cat endemic to Java. The luwak will eat only the choicest, most perfectly matured beans which it then excretes, partially digested, a few hours later. Plantation workers then retrieve the beans from the ground, ready for immediate roasting."

Har?? Poo from a civet cat? Indeed an expensive gourmet! Thanks, but NO Thanks. =P

In this farm, we can see the coffee beans being roasted and grinded the old-fashion way! This man is certainly proud to show off his skill:

Enough about coffee. Our next stop will be Kintamani to see Bali's active volcano, Gunung Batur! I was so excited. ACTIVE volcano! After paying for an entrance fee, Nyoman drove up the hill, and suddenly stopped his car on the road side. "We're here!" I was like..."HUH?"

Ok. So, it was a view of the ACTIVE volcano from FAR. It was almost 12pm, Nyoman suggested that we should proceed up the hill where we can further enjoy the scenie view while munching our food. At Batur Sari restaurant, it only cost us RP70,000 each for a buffet lunch with breathtaking view of the volcano....Not bad :)

Next! Nyoman will take us to see another scenic view - Tegalalang paddy terrace field. It's a "must-see", according to Nyoman. It is also known as "ceking rice padi terasering" meaning paddy field that were build like a staircase on the side of a valley. Sounds interesting!

Of course we can't help but pose for a nice picture for memory! This is our 1st holiday trip as the official Mr & Mrs =) It was indeed an amazing view! We let the pictures do the talking:

The photos might look a bit too small for you to admire...see this original piece from my humble Sony Ericson Z610i:

Next stop: Tanah Lot. The name Tanah Lot is probably from " tanah laut " which means land in the sea. It is the fact that the strong sea abrasion has separated the temple area with Bali mainland, so it looks that the temple nests on a small speck of rock building up on the ocean.

By the time we arrive, the sea water resided, as such, we are able to walk up to the sacred temple.

...A closer view...

We can see people queuing up for the "holy water". We queued up as well...to taste the "holy water". Amazing! The water source strangely comes from the sea, but the water doesn't taste salty at all. It tastes just like regular water, how strange!! The priest dabbed some rice on our forehead as a blessing and gave us a flower each!

We didn't wait for the sunset, instead...we need to rush off to Jimbaran Bay for our romantic seafood dinner by the beach! Hopefully, we'll be there on time to catch the sunset!!!

Exploring Bali

2009-08-19T08:08:00.000-07:00

Aiyayaya. Toast bread + Egg = Dry. Luckily there's coffee, and fruits. Next time, I have to bring along small cubes of butter and jam! This Warsi bungalows are suitable for backpackers, or budget travellers, big rooms with hot water and even a bath tub! =P Nice folks. You get to mix around with the family members. Will I go back? Nope. Hehe.

Thank god Nyoman was punctual, he came to pick us up at 930am! The first place we stopped was the Tirta Empul Temple located in Tampak Siring, next to the President's palace.

Took a picture of the palace located high up the hill. According to Nyoman, the President will always stay here whenever he visits Bali until today. However, it is not accesible to the public.

The Tirta Empul Temple was built around the springs and special bathing where its pond is believed to cure some sickness. Tirta empul means water that comes from the earth naturally. And until this day Balinese still believe the miraculous healing powers of the water.

Based on a legend, Bali was ruled by Mayadenawa (a very powerful giant) and ran the empire as a dictator. He became very arrogant because of his power and even prohibited the Balinese to pray to the God as he claimed to be their god. The Balinese people suffered and was afraid of Mayadenawa.

God then came to earth as a knight and challenged Mayadenawa. After a great fight, Mayadenawa ran and tried to hide. He was so angry with the Balinese people that he uses his magic and made the river water to became so poisonous that anyone who drank it, would die.

When the Knight (God manifested) found out, he took his arrow and shot it to the earth. And as the arrow pierced the earth, suddenly clear water appeared and flowed into the contaminated rivers to replace the poisonous water. From that day onwards, the water is used as medicine for people who get sick. And has since been called Tirta Empul or sacred spring. To honor the knight and miracle, the Balinese built a temple there.

And when there is a festival or ceremony in this temple you can see many people bathing in the ponds that has seven pancuran. The source of the water is from the sacred spring in the middle area. Not only can the water cure sickness but can also purify sins.

Took the above footage where clear water emerging from underneath. Clear & clean water - drinkable!

Day Three @ still in UBUD

2009-08-18T07:15:00.000-07:00

For the price we are paying at Yulia Inn, I was dissappointed with the breakfast served. It is as though it cost so much to provide us with a decent breakfast meal! Again, it was toast bread, egg and fruits. And egg - only one type for each guest: scramble/fried/boiled/etc. And geeez. Look at how pathetic they sliced the tiny sausage as deco.....

We quickly finished our breakfast and head off along the street hoping to find a better "valued" accomodation. Can't believe it is still FULL. Finally, my hubby found a decent "homestay" at the Warsi Bungalow. Checked the room...it was by far the biggest & the toilet is spacious and CLEAN too. Too bad there was no air-condition, only a ceiling fan but surprisingly, they have hot water. The price was only RP300,000 and I bet, their breakfast menu is similar to that of Yulia! Here's some picture I took with my modest Sony Ericson Z610i:

We confirmed the room and then we head off to the street again, this time to look for a KODAK camera shop as I forgot to bring my charger along :( It was such a surprise to find that most of the camera shop in UBUD still sell the film-type camera! After a long search, we finally found a universal charger...costly, but I reckoned it will be worth the $$ if I can recharge my camera and take beautiful pictures! It cost me an unbelievable RP 215,000!! And hey, it is MADE IN CHINA. Can't wait to test this out!

We then headed back to Yulia, had a quick shower and check out by 12pm. No extension of check-out time allowed here in Bali. Everything is chargeable =P. Hubby hailed a small van to take us to Warsi Bungalow located along the street and it cost us RP 9,000. After putting our bags at Warsi, we decided to head to this popular place, TROPICAL RESTAURANT for our lunch. Since we saved some $$ on our accomodation, it is time to have a feast! Yay! Luv the sate lilit here =D
After our lunch, we headed towards the Ubud Royal Palace - about 5 minutes walk from the restaurant. Also known as Puri Saren Agung, this place was the home of the last "king" of Ubud, and now his descendants live there. It was also Ubud's first hotel, opening its doors to paying visitors in the 1930s. Still operated as a small homestay style hotel. Hmm...I personally find it poorly maintained, and I didn't realise that is was also a hotel until I researched it over the internet =P

According to our driver Nyoman, the Ibu Oka Babi Guling stall is a MUST try. It is just located opposite the palace. We ordered one small portion to try....hmmm...I still prefer our local "siew yoke"....
*Burp*... time to head back to Warsi, take a shower and rest! While walking back, we saw some bicycles for rent...RP 30,000 per day.....hmmm....*tempted* suddenly, someone offered us a mbike for rent...also RP 30,000...wahh! Faster and easier...same price woh! Unfortunately, both of us doesn't have a mbike license! We declined and walk back to Warsi...

Hubby was still thinking of the mbike...with the bike...we can go to monkey forest and back...don't need to walk sooooooooo far =P. While I took shower, hubby went to enquire for bike rental. He was gone for almost an hour...I wonder...where is he laaa?!! Hehe..he actually went out to "practice" his mbike skills!! Not convinced, I told him that we'll walk to the Ubud Art Market instead of the bike since it is so near....we'll give the bike a try later when we want to go to Monkey Forest.

Ubud Art Market is just like our M'sia Pasar Malam...just that, here, they sell a lot of craft works..more like Chatuchak market in BKK. Bargained and bought quite a lot of souveniers for friends back in Malaysia =) Everywhere you go, there are unlimited sight of nude paintings and this:

Did you notice the lil' hello kitty tag??!!! Odd...hehehe!

Our final destination today would be the Sacred Monkey Forest. Instead of walking, I decided to hitch a ride from this Mat Rempit from KL ...*ahem*...not bad woh...we managed to reach our destination SAFELY!! Yay! Snapped this picture to show his mum!! Kekekeke....

Okay! Back to the Sacred Monkey Forest. Entrance Fee is only RP 5,000 per person and a stalk of banana to feed the monkeys later. Monkeys are everywhere, not as cheeky and naughty compared to those in Botanical Gardens, Penang....we walked around the whole forest and we see lotz of monkeys, and forest, more monkeys, more forest....and lotz of statues!

"Within Balinese Hinduism, monkeys can be the embodiment of both positive and negative forces. The dual nature of monkeys is especially reflected in the Ramayana (a very popular Indian epic poem). Within the Ramayana, Sita (the beloved bride of Rama) is abducted by Rawana (an evil king). Rama (an incarnation of Dewa Wisnu) calls upon Sugriwa (king of the monkeys) and Hanuman (Sugriwa's General) to help him retrieve Sita. However, within the Ramayana, there are also antagonist monkeys like Subali that attempt to assist Rawana. In the end, Hanuman, along with his monkey army, defeats Rawana's evil forces and helps Rama to retrieve Sita.Because monkeys can embody both positive and negative forces, the Balinese both loathe and revere monkeys. Monkeys that occupy sacred Balinese Hindu temple sites (like the Sacred Monkey Forest) tend to be revered and protected by the Balinese. One reason for this is that monkeys, in the form of a Barong, are believed to be capable of guarding temple sites against evil spirits. However, the Balinese belief that monkeys can be negative in nature is reinforced when, for example, they raid rice fields or snatch items from souvenier shops."

Wow! Read more at http://www.monkeyforestubud.com/monkey.html

Thank god for the bike! We don't have to walk all the way back to Yulia! It was fun riding the bike, we manage to see more things and can go almost anywhere!!

Balimoon Day Two - Safari Park

2009-08-17T10:00:00.000-07:00

I have decided to call it our Balimoon instead. I doubt we will be able to have any romantic/intimacy/seclusion in our schedule as we STILL NEED TO FIND A PLACE TO STAY.

Yes, it will be our first trip together as Mr & Mrs, but my expectation of a honeymoon is so much different! I would picture myself with hubby in a nice hotel, enjoying spas, romantic dinner n such. So, this is our Balimoon where we will have to continue to look for a PLACE TO STAY and most probably, rent a vehicle or get a driver. Hopefully, don't need to sleep in the car...

We woke up around 8am and decided to walk around DEWA BHARATA before adjourning to our breakfast. (yes, it is included) Actually, it is quite a nice place, from outside that is. Look at the swimming pool...hehe - just that, it didn't fit into my expectation of a honeymoon-type of place to stay. And the mini hutan...yeah yeah...lotz of greenery...So, yeah..for Balimoon..it is ok.

We were given a menu to choose for our breakfast. Hmmm. You either choose fried egg or scrambled egg or boiled egg or hal-boiled egg. The rest are fixed. And hey, no sausage. No baked beans. Just bread and egg. They don't even provide butter or jam. Just plain toasted bread with egg of your choice. THANK GOD for their Balinese coffee!! It was the one and only thing I enjoyed =) Ok..not so bad lah...breakfast with a pool view...

Instead of driving ourselves, we decided to engage a driver. Costing us RP 300,000 for a trip to Safari Park & Ubud later, the driver also agreed to help us find for hotel in Ubud. If we rent a vehicle, it will cost us about RP 150,000 excluding petrol and we still have to find our way to the Safari Park & Ubud. So...we made the smarter choice by engaging Nyoman Sudarna. (Nyoman means third child in the family)

On the way to the Safari, we stopped at Sanur for lunch. According to Nyoman, this little shop is famous for it's Babi Guling. We have heard so much about it and decided to give it a try. There was a small queue, and I ordered a chicken set, while hubby ordered the babi guling set.

Honestly, I find our local Msian "siew-yuk" (in cantonese) taste so much nicer. Although the skin is crispy, but, I still prefer the Msian ones. In hubby's plate, it seems like there are several more fried items that are made from pork. Looks like internal stuffs....eeee...luckily, I chose the chicken set (although the chicken feet looks disgusting =P)! Ok ok only lah...

Finally, we arrived at the BALI SAFARI AND MARINE PARK. I can't wait to get up close and personal with the white Sumatrian Tiger!! The ticket was a little pricey, and we didn't have much choice as it comes in a package. One good example is that, we told the lady that we are not interested in the FUN RIDES (huh?) as we merely want to see the animals. Still, she insists that we purchase this "Jungle Hopper" package that cost us RP 721,000 for two tickets! Our driver told us to spend max two (2) hours...as we need to make our way to Ubud later...

Look carefully...

Closer....closer...... such a cutie!!

Look, a LIVE komodo!!

Look..ELEPHANT...but fake one laa...

Some facts here...apparently, the white tigers are NOT rare and NOT endangered species. And, there are not even a species. The white tiger is a mutant, and today - there are no white tigers in the wild...simply because, it would almost be impossible to survive as they would be disadvantaged by their colour. Preys would easily spot them! And oh dear, they are deliberately 'manufactured' by man - to be an attraction to zoos, etc. Sigh!!

Yes, it is unfair to keep animals in zoos and safaris. And yes, they should roam in the wild instead of being exhibits and money making tools! But then again, it is only here that we can get up close and personal with the wild animals...

Now that I read so much about the white tigers...it is certainly cruel to breed them for such purpose. Sigh!

Welcome to UBUD

2009-08-17T08:39:00.000-07:00

Still on Day 2, after the Safari trip (we ended up spending almost 4 hours) we told Nyoman to take us to art villages to buy some paintings & craftworks. We knew that Ubud is the art centre of Bali and is famous for its artist & paintings.

I managed to purchase three (3) paintings costing me around RP 1,750,000. Cheap, and of course, quality is so-so. But, ok...I am no expert either. Just need some cool abstract paintings for my walls at home!

The sky is already dark by 7pm. And geez, we still have no accomodation yet! Although Nyoman assured us there will be PLENTY in Ubud...we are still worried =P

True enough, all hotels/cottages/etc are FULL. Sigh! Again, we walk and stopped at every single hotel we find in Ubud. Finally, we found YULIA INN. The price was unreasonably expensive, but we have no choice. It cost us a whopping RP 800,000 for one night which I am sure, is definitely overpriced. Again, no choice lah.... at least, it has a proper and CLEAN bath tub. Nice, but pricey. Not value for money, in my opinion. And duh, can we trust the internet anymore? Look at their website! http://www.yuliaubud.com/ So, be smart. Do some research and read reviews before booking anything, anywhere!

After settling in, we decided that we will be staying in Ubud for two nights. I told hubby that we will look for an alternative accomodation. This room is so noisy, it is facing the back of a spa. You can hear the workers chit-chatting, radio blasting, etc. I am SURE we can find some reasonable place to stay! Off to DINNER!! Almost 8pm already...

We decided to have our dinner at DIAN Restaurant..it seemed packed. I ordered a fish dish while hubby opt for the BBQ Chicken. Yummy! No wonder the place is packed..the food taste good and the price are reasonable too!

After dinner, we decided to stroll along the Jalan Monkey Forest. More shops and eating places. Ubud is far much a better place to relax, away from the thumping sounds and beats of the pubs in Kuta. Oh dear! Am I getting old? =P

After a short walk, we decided to call it a day. It was a tiring day for both of us.

ZzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzZZZZZzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

Arriving at Bali..DAY ONE

2009-08-16T09:03:00.000-07:00

Our flight was delayed. According to Airasia officials, it was due to heavy rain and instead of taking off at 4:45pm as per scheduled...we manage to fly only at 6:00pm. Wow...that was like 1 hour and 15 minutes worth of delay. And geez, we still have no hotel.

But, both our airfare cost only RM 140/= for 2 pax...RETURN!! Crazy eh? Well, with Airasia..EVERYONE can fly!

Upon landing in Ngurah Rai International Airport, we quickly checked out and headed straight to the little counters located just outside the terminal arrival exit on the right. We quickly went into one of the counter/shop to book our accomodation. "Full house", "No place", "Full".....except for some expensive villas which we find not worth the price as we planned to only stay one night in Kuta, and move to Ubud tomorrow noon. Hmmm.

Finally, they managed to get us a place at USD35 called DEWA BHARATA BUNGALOWS in Kuta. Huh? Bungalow? For 2 persons? Ok, whatever, so long we have a place to nap tonight. We then queued at the taxi counter and paid RP55,000 for a ticket, and off we go!!

The first thing I checked, was the TOILET. Luckily, it was CLEAN...old, but CLEAN. The room was "ok"...small, but CLEAN. Took some pictures:

I was somehow put-off by the toilet. Although it is clean, but it is so old that I can't help but feel yucky! So, decided to skip bathing, and go off straight to find food! It was almost 10:30pm...and the street was filled with youngsters and foreigners in pubs n such. Loud music was everywhere and the street was busy with bikes and cars. Hmm, even horsey on the road at night??

We both ordered "Nasi goreng ala Bali" and yummy! It was simply delicious! Hmm...before going back to Malaysia..must go buy some "rempah" for the Nasi Goreng for mum...*sedapnye*

After dinner, we continued to walk on the street for a while before heading back to our "bungalow"...ZZZzzzzzZZZzzzzzzz..........

Honeymoon

2009-08-13T08:37:00.000-07:00

Well, I looked up this word in Wikipedia:

A honeymoon is the traditional holiday taken by newlyweds (or between two people in an early harmonious period in a relationship) to celebrate their marriage in intimacy and seclusion.

So, our trip to Bali scheduled about eight (8) months after our marriage...the fact that, only both of us are going...and yes, there could be intimacy and seclusion...BUT

As of now, all the hotels are FULLY booked and we are flying off to Bali in two (2) days time. Hmmm. I am sure there are plenty of hotels in Bali that weren't list on the internet...or, perhaps there are limited allocations of hotels in Asiarooms for internet booking....although..*ahem* it is now SUMMER holiday for lotz of other tourists....and *ahem* it also happens to be Indonesia Independence Day......and our flight touch down in Bali around 8pm (provided no delay from Airasia).....

Worst scenario? Both hubby and I planned to rent a car in Bali if we failed to get any accomodation...hehe...at least, we can sleep in the car for the night =P

So, if we need to sleep in the car....or ended up renting some cheap motels....do we still consider it a honeymoon? Well......we'll see =P

Mr Hong Kong

2009-07-26T06:57:00.000-07:00

I was having dinner at a nearby food court here, and they are screening this HK show, Mr Hong Kong contest. I nearly choked when it came to the swimsuit session. Hahaha!

For men, not only do they have to strut in that tiny piece of swimming trunk :P they will also have to "wet" themselves "literally". There will be splashes of water when they walk by, for them to show off their wet, wet, body. *drool*

Honestly, although I enjoy good looks and sexy body - I still find men parading themselves in public...well...err...disgusting. Perhaps it could be due to the fact that we are so used to seeing women's pageant...so, when it comes to manly man...it looks kinda silly, especially when they try so hard to look good :P

Anyway, this guy was the winner for the show I watched earlier:

His name is Michael Tsu - Mr Hong Kong 2008. Given a choice, I still prefer to watch male models competition than a male beauty pagent! The latter somehow, still makes me feel *weird*

Statcounter.com

2009-07-23T09:36:00.000-07:00

I was recommended to statcounter by a friend when I first started my blog about my journey to "marry-hood". It was interesting to see the flood of visitors to my blog and topics that interests them. I no longer update the blog, now that I am officially the MRS, but still, I get visitors to the old blog DAILY. Yes, DAILY. No kidding.

Wah...perhaps I should consider a career in writing? Or, hey, blog for money? *dreaming*

So, how do I generate such traffic? Well, thanks to the Butterfly-Origami instruction video I have on my blog. Seems like a LOT of people around the world love to google for this video! So many of them want to learn how to make the butterfly origami! Honestly, I did not even get the chance to try doing it =P

Let me try installing statcounter in this blog and see what interests people most!

Why 1227?

2009-07-22T09:13:00.000-07:00

Yes! I got 1227!! Why 1227? This number was proposed by my hubby. I thought of 2712, but he came out with 1227, which sound much better :) When I first told the salesman about this number, of course he was a little puzzled cuz normally people would want symbolic numbers that brings good luck and fortune, blah blah.

So, why 1227?

Yes, it does mean something to us la. Something so important in our lives. JPJ was so empty today and ny transaction took less than 5 minutes. Wow. Efficient-nyer!

Once done, we head back to the Toyota showroom in Segambut and there she is! My Altis! The sporty Altis gleaming in white! Yahoooo!

After signing off some documents, off I go with my new Altis. New car. I just can't stop smiling while driving. Hehe! Glad I made this purchase ;)

Goodbye...and HELLO =)

2009-07-21T08:41:00.000-07:00

It was almost 9pm, and I was clearing all my belongings from dear old Waja. Shoes, CDs, keys, notes, coins, etc. It was a strange moment. I somehow "feel"for my car. Strange. I don't remember having this feeling when I sold my first car five years ago.

Anyway, took my dearest Betsy for one last ride. We cruise along the neighbourhood a little longer than we normally would...it will be the last and final cruise in WME 1770.

Ahh..I have to wake up early tomorrow to purchase my car plate number at JPJ Wangsa Maju. My appointment with the salesman is 8am. Gosh, that means, I have to wake up at least about 7am. Aiyayayaya! Zzzzzzz....

Since I am on the car topic, remember TATA NANO? Touted the "CHEAPEST CAR IN THEW WORLD", it only cost $2,500/= to own one!! Hehe...picked this up from some Indian website and thought that it's an interesting piece of information:

Plastic in bodywork? Hmmm. Anyway, this car is suitable to be used in India due to their small and congested road. Well, if you think it is not safe...how about if you compare it with a bike? Look at the design...hehe..not bad!

Marriage Humour

2009-07-19T09:04:00.000-07:00

A friend asked me why I didn't carry my wedding picture in my purse/wallet. She finds it strange cuz most married couple would do that. The wife will have picture of the wedding photo, the husband will have the wife's photo, and when the wife became a mother, she will have the babies' photo, etc. "So, how come you didn't put a photo?"

Too bad I didn't have her email address, otherwise, I would love to share this with her:

Wife: "You always carry my photo in your wallet. Why?"
Hubby: "When there is a problem, no matter how impossible, I look at your picture and the problem disappears."
Wife: "You see how miraculous and powerful I am for you!"
Hubby: "Yes! I see your picture and ask myself what other problem can there be greater than this one?"

Hehehehe!

Anyway, I don't have any qualms about people with photos in their purse/wallet. Who knows, when I have the time and mood, I will go cut a nice li' pic and put it into my purse/wallet.

And of course, will put one for hubby as well. Well, at least it can somehow be his pillar of strength in times of difficulties! =P

World without MEN?

2009-07-17T09:27:00.000-07:00

What an interesting artical I read on the newspaper today. It says that some scientists are able to cultivate SPERMS. Yeah, SPERM. They have tested it on mice, and it produces baby mice. Wow. Imagine.

Women will be able to breed without men. We don't need them around anymore, or do we?

Interesting. I mean, interesting article :)

World without men? What will happen to women?

For a married woman like myself, although, I don't like to depend on my hubby...without his species around, it definitely feels weird. Imagine the world is filled with your own kind. No more oogling at those tight butts, no more excuses to go to the gym, no more Mr Fix-It-All at home, and the list go on. Candlelight dinner will never be the same. The waltz, cha-cha and rumba will look weird. And weddings? Who will be the "heng-tais"?? And gosh, no more Keanu Reeves?

Yes, it is good to not have them around sometime especially during those girly weekends.

But not having them AT ALL....ahh...I wouldn't want that to happen. We will sure miss them lots! Look at that hot hot Keanu =)

Sleepless in SD

2009-07-16T09:11:00.001-07:00

I know I will regret tomorrow morning when the alarm beeps. I know I will drag my feet to the bathroom tomorrow morning. I know I will curse myself for not going to bed earlier.

My hubby is sleeping soundly now (even with the lights on). As for me, I am tired (yes) but still, I "refused" to sleep. This is the only time I can have my thoughts scribbled, surfing the internet for fun, chatting with some friends, etc. Really, PERSONAL time for myself :) and I luv it. Today. Now, that is. Not tomorrow morning :P

A typical weekday for me starts with a breakfast (if time permits, that is). I used to cook breakfast and wake up a little earlier than usual. Yeah, used to. Ever since hubby finds that his waistline is growing, he told me that he had to stop taking breakfast and instead, will just gulp a cup of Nescafe. Nhuh? I am amazed that he didn't know that breakfast is the utmost important meal of the day. He refused to believe when I told him that it was the heavy dinner he took almost every night that makes his belly grow. Haha. My mum luv to spoil him with his favourite dish every night :)

So, back to my daily acitivity. Work finishes around 7 to 730pm and I am home by 8pm+..by the time I finish dinner, it will be almost 9pm. And I will spend some time with mum from 9pm to 10pm+, catching up with her on her daily activities, etc. Hubby will be watching ASTRO while waiting for me patiently. :) And before leaving, how can I not hug my girnie..

Around 1030pm, we will head home. Took a bath and ta-da.....11pm. How time flies!! If we both have no mood for extra curricular activity for the nite, hubby will either spend his time with the PC while me, with my notebook. He usually logs off around 12am..while I will log off around 1am. The difference is cause..he don't blog while I do. And bloggin takes time too. Heeeeee...

It'z a DONE deal!!

2009-07-13T08:46:00.000-07:00

Paid RM 3,000 deposit, signed and sealed! Yipppeee!! I have confirmed the one and only TOYOTA ALTIS Sporty edition! =) Pearl White!! Yahooooooo!!

Decision made. This is the car I want. 2009. Yippeee! I am so relieved to have made up my mind. No more this or that, hmm or huh...it's DONE!

According to saleman, I need to wait for about two weeks before I can get my car! Can't wait!!

What's the number??? Hmm...hubby suggested...7211? Hmmmmmmmmm....

No More Work, PLEASE!

2009-07-11T10:08:00.000-07:00

It was a usual Saturday night, where we decided to bring little girnie back to our home for the night. She has been so eagerly wanting to follow us, both hubby and I decided to bring her home, again. Yup. Again. Again, cuz, this is not the first time. :)

As usual, after bath, etc...I turn on my laptop on the bed, and she will lie close to me. Her eyes are just staring at me..as if, trying to convey a message. I ignored her and continue to work on my computer.

As I turn to get a drink on the table...this is what I found!!

Hehe...she just refused to budge. She purposely lie between the laptop so that I can't reach and continue my works!! Hehe!! Asked her to move...she refused. She even put her head on the bolster I was lying on earlier. "Girnie..up up..please..." Nope, she just won't budge.

No choice, I had to shut down my computer and go to bed :) And she will lie next to us. Yeah, she will snuggle in between me and hubby. See, that is why we can't bring her home every night!!

And here she is in the morning! Lazy lazy bone!!

The Revenge Of The Fallen

2009-07-10T10:50:00.000-07:00

I can't believe that I ENJOYED this movie so much! From the start until the end, I was awed with the creative transformers! It was a really, really good movie. Simple storyline though, lots of explosions and non-stop actions!

Yes, Ms Megan Fox was hot and sexy. Her presence definitely added spice to this, otherwise robotic movie :) Slutty yes, otherwise, there will be no oomph in the movie...it's a guy type of movie, remember?

Sam Witwicky? Decepticons? Megatron? Optimus? Allspark? If you think the names are creative, you should go watch the movie. It is really amazing how one's mind can imagine and create a "robot" in this way!

If you try to make sense out of this movie, well...save it. Just watch it. See how the big cars and robots transform themselves, and the explosions. As I said, it's a guy type of movie...so, what do you expect? =P

I have a MAID!!!

2009-07-08T07:45:00.000-07:00

Only cost you 119,800 pts or 30,000 pts + RM350!! Yes, redeem it from HSBC Rewards Points! Yahoo! Luv it! Every household should have ONE! No more tiny hairs, no more dirty carpets..yahoooooooooooooooooo!!!

My husband was sceptical at first. How can a tiny robot like that clean our house??!! Well, of course, we cannot compare it to a HUMAN...but it does help as it can clean the house DAILY. I mean, how often would you vacumm the house? We normally do it over the weekends, but now, we can do it daily!! Cool!!

Will it last? When will it breakdown? I seriously have no idea, today is the 1st day we used it. It was fantastic, and my carpet is just so clean! Imagine, we used to vacumm it for at least an hour, now, it is done within minutes!! LUVVVV IT...

Introducing our new MAID! =)

Seriously...go get yourself one!! It's never, never too late!

WTF...

2009-07-06T08:46:00.000-07:00

The best way to see a person's true self is when he/she is being emotionally tested!! (at the highest level, that is) Expecially when one's patience is being tested, emotions running wild and blood pressure shooting sky high!

Well, let's not take into account abusive behaviour. Those group are not worth mentioning here. Bullies will have no spot in this blog.

I am referring to abusive, sarcastic and unkind words uttered. *F* here, and *F* there.

Some people thinks it's cool. Well, in a way.

As for me, when such words are uttered in front of a lady/woman/female - it is simply rudeness at the highest level. You can drive a big car, dress in a smart suit - but when you lose your cool in front of a lady, all points will be lost! It is certainly NOT cool at all. Although not aim at her, but by uttering such word in her presence is surely NO CLASS at all!

So guys, please...control yourself and show that you are a true gentleman.

Impulsive

2009-07-05T07:39:00.000-07:00

Recently, I have decided to change car. As car is a depreciating asset, I keep reminding myself to control the budget spent on a car. On average, a car will depreciate about 10%-20%, or more annually.

Take a good example of my car. Five years ago, it cost me about RM 65k. Today, the highest offer I ever got was a mere RM 25k. Geez, that is like RM 8k loss per year. Ok, not THAT bad. Still, RM 8k a year is money. But then of course, we trade it with comfort and convenience. So, ok.

First, it was the new Camry. If the salesman had been a smooth talker, I think I would've paid the booking and get the car. Luckily, he wasn't. I decided to take a look at X-Trail. I know, I don't have a specific model in mind, I just know that I wanted a new car.

So, walked into the Nissan showroom, and too bad, there's no X-Trail on display. But there's this SYLPHY. Huh? The salesman was good. He even managed to convince me to do a test drive and I LOVE it. Plus, the car was reasonably priced. Not to mention the salesman threw in lots of goodies for me! However, mum insisted that I take my hubby to view the car before I confirm the purchase. Sigh...ok.

So, the next day, I quickly brought my hubby to the showroom. Again, the salesman insist that we test drive the car. Everything about the car was good, well...except for the design. My hubby cautioned me...."You sure you like this design?" Well...I told him that the salesman agreed to do some modification to both exterior (follow IMPUL) and interior...plus, he is throwing in the V-Cool for me too!

My hubby kept asking me, "You sure you like this car?" There I was, busy counting my money to pay the deposit. My hubby intercepted and told the salesman, "We would like to think it over, let's not make any payment today". I was like..."HUH?" EEEEeeeeeee.....well, ok.

My hubby then took me to the TOYOTA showroom again. He said, this time I should check out ALTIS. We went to a different TOYOTA showroom located in Segambut. And OMG, the new ALTIS is simply simply awesome! LUV LUV LUV it!!! We did another test drive!

Ok, confirm! I WANT this car! I want! I want! I want!!

Again, my hubby told me...Cool down....let's not make decision today.

Wow. I am amazed with myself. I didn't realise I am such an IMPULSIVE person. An IMPULSIVE buyer, that's what I am...
Alright alright. Cool Baby. Cool down. =P
"Buying car is not like buying a pair of shoe. Like it or not, you will have to use it for at least a few years!!"

Michael Jackson

2009-06-26T09:39:00.000-07:00

I thought of giving it a miss as I am sure, there are millions of blogs about MJ. Almost all media are paying tribute to MJ and his songs & MTVs are being played over and over again. How can I ignore and not blog about it??!

Yes, I was a die-hard fan of MJ. Like many others, I grew up with his songs, his moves and his style. I was dumbfounded the first time I saw the BEAT IT MTV on local TV back in 1983. Posters are splashed across my bedroom wall, T-Shirts and even a scrapbook of my hero =)

When news of him coming to Malaysia to perform HIStory concert in 1996, I queued up for hours just to buy the tickets. And yes, tickets for both 27th & 29th October show. I actually watched the HIStory concert 2 days in a row!! And I can remember clearly that I see him doing this move LIVE:

How did he do it??? It was not a camera trick, I watched it LIVE with my own eyes!! I seriously have no idea but it was simply AWESOME!! Indeed HE is the one and only King Of Pop forever!
(Later found out that it has something to do with the stage =P)

26th June 2009
"With his death ... a legend is born that will last until the end of time."

The F Word

2009-06-23T09:20:00.000-07:00

Mind you, I am referring to the word "FLIRT". According to Wikipedia, People flirt for a number of reasons. It is often used as a means of indicating interest and gauging the other person's interest in a relationship. Alternatively, it may simply be a prelude to casual sex.

In other situations, it may be done simply for amusement, with no intention of developing any further relationship. This type of flirting sometimes faces disapproval from others, either because it can be misinterpreted as more serious, or it may be viewed as "cheating" if the person is already in a romantic relationship with someone else.

I tend to feel that there is a connection or link between FLIRT & ATTRACTIVE. Both are inter-connected. Cuz, you only flirt cuz you think you are attractive...or you flirt cuz you find the other party is attrative, and vice versa.

See, even this pair of Jimmy Choo is flirtatious!!

So, do I flirt? Well, I try NOT to since I now have a ring on my finger. Always have to remember, that I am no longer a MISS, but MRS. And a happy MRS indeed =)

Be NICE

2009-06-11T08:29:00.000-07:00

It happened too many times. It is frustrating..yes..but I do feel bad each time I hung up. YES! It is those calls you get from credit card companies, insurance, etc,etc!!

I feel bad because I was rude the other person on the line. I feel bad because, I tried to keep my tone down, but somehow, I think..he can hear that I am losing my patience with him. After I hung up, I feel sorry for him having to call me. He was just doing his job..

"Look!! Are you trying to sell me something??!! Ha? What? I don't want!! Not Interested! I am working NOW! PLEASE DON'T YOU EVER CALL ME AGAIN!!"

Wahh..ain't that rude =P. I must admit, I am not alwiz like that. Out of the 10 calls I get..only 1 will get this type of treatment from me :P cuz, I am a salesperson myself. I know how hard it is to get a prospective client number that you can call and try to sell a product. That's why I end up with many credit cards (that I don't even use) just because the salesperson was begging me to let him earn his commission!!

Anyway, back to today's event. Yeah...I feel bad immediately after hanging up the phone. He was just trying to make a sale and earn his commission. Although I am not going to let him make a sale, the least I can do is to tell him off POLITELY. Imagine how frustrating it is to face rejection over and over and over again..and it is even worst when you get rude response =P

So, this post is to remind me to BE NICE to all the telemarketeers....not to tell them to F*** OFF, instead..."I am not interested, thank you. Please, don't call me again...goodbye!" and end it with a smile before hanging up.

Heee....fingers crossed! Will do my best! =)
And oh, in case you're wondering...I have never been a telemarketeer :P

She Will Be Loved...MAROON 5

2009-06-08T08:14:00.000-07:00

I first stumbled on this song on a caller ringtone of one of my client back in 2005 and it has been my fav ever since! I can listen to it over and over and over....here's the lyrics and of course, one of the LIVE performance found on You Tube:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uOtv1pYpW20

Beauty queen of only eighteen

She had some trouble with herself

He was always there to help her

She always belonged to someone else

I drove for miles and miles

And wound up at your door

I've had you so many times but somehow

I want more

I don't mind spending everyday

Out on your corner in the pouring rain

Look for the girl with the broken smile

Ask her if she wants to stay awhile

And she will be loved

Tap on my window, knock on my door

I want to make you feel beautiful

I know I tend to get so insecure

It doesn't matter anymore

It's not always rainbows and butterflies

It's compromise that moves us along

My heart is full and my door's always open

You can come anytime you want

I don't mind spending everyday

Out on your corner in the pouring rain, oh

Look for the girl with the broken smile

Ask her if she wants to stay awhile

And she will be loved

I know where you hide

Alone in your car

Know all of the things that make you who you are

I know that goodbye means nothing at all

Comes back and begs me to catch her every time she falls

Tap on my window, knock on my door

I want to make you feel beautiful

I don't mind spending every day

Out on your corner in the pouring rain

Look for the girl with the broken smile

Ask her if she wants to stay awhile

And she will be loved

Please don't try so hard to say goodbye

I don't mind spending everyday

Out on your corner in the pouring rain

Please don't try so hard to say goodbye

Smoke 0

2009-05-14T09:25:00.000-07:00

It was 1040pm and we were watching the Mandarin news. Although my Mandarin is not really that good, but I do understand some simple words. Below is not something new...but it's good that it was announced in the news while my dearest hubby was watching it:

"Smoking 10 cigarettes a day reduces your chances of having a baby dramatically"

Wow. How I love this show! I hope it somehow hit hard into his brain..although I am unsure if he smoke 10 or less, or more. But clearly, if you want a baby, you will increase your chances if you smoke 0. Yeah, don't smoke AT ALL.

Don't ever try it at all. Not worth it AT ALL. Cuz when you're hooked, it is almost impossible to quit.

Watching People

2009-05-12T09:08:00.000-07:00

We were deciding where to have lunch today, I told my friend that.."Hem, you will never see me in those "Char Chan Teng"..Kopitiam ok la...but not those HK styled cafe. Not for a serious meal, at least. I don't mind going in for a cuppa. Nothing personal, it's just a matter of personal taste/option. :)

So, we settled in at Dragon-I and while waiting for our food, we started to chat. He shared with me that he and a bunch of his friends have this hobby of WATCHING people. Huh? A bunch of guy sitting at a cafe over the weekend, doing nothing but WATCHING people??!! He finds it facsinating to see different type of people, the clothes they wear, the way they talk, walk and god knows what else ;P

Personally, I do WATCH sometimes. It is interesting. Although it is not right to judge people, but we tend to judge what we see. "Look at your 3 o'clock..blah blah blah"...or "The girl in blue jeans and pink top..blah blah blah"...isn't all of us guilty and have done it at least once in your lifetime??!! We laugh at those aunties that are trying too hard to be "youthful"..or the young gal whom tries to impress her girlfriends with the "slang", etc, etc.

I must admit, it's quite interesting.

But to do it as a hobby, nah! And my friend here, he is a really nice guy, just that he have a strange, strange hobby :P Or at least, I find it strange :P

Let It Be?

2009-04-17T08:25:00.000-07:00

My mum and friends' advise "LET IT BE"

They said, if you are too "pressured"..it WON'T happen. Take it easy, and it will come to you naturally. Hmmm. Easy for them to say, I thought.

Age is definitely catching up with me. I can feel this "change" in me. On holidays, I love to spend some quite time - it can just be sitting and sipping a cup of coffee. Of course, shopping is still in my fav list. But I used to hate idling around. But now...luv it :)

And, I luv kids. I enjoyed the look on their innocent faces. I enjoyed the casual chats with them, wondering how simple minds can one day be so complex. Kids. Especially my nephew and niece. And of course, dearest Calvin...

Alien Dog

2009-04-11T09:11:00.000-07:00

April 12th, 2009, I decided to take my dog for professional grooming. Lately, she was infested with ticks (thanks to dear old BOB) and I was advised by the vet to shave off all her hair. After all, it only take 3 months to grow back all the hair. 3 months...hmmmmmmmm....

So, here we are. Petsmore Metro Prima. I had to muzzle my Betsy, as she will turn into a fierce beast when I am not around. "No woh, she looked pretty friendly to me!" said one of the assistant. *Ahem*. Yeah, sure. The other time I brought my Betsy to another grooming shop..she was REJECTED. Yup. They called and ask me to take my Betsy home as they are unable to HANDLE her. Too fierce! =P

I requested for a muzzle. As much as I hate to use it, I have no choice as I knew my dog too well. Without a muzzle, and without me with her, she will turn into one ugly beast.

After a few chat with the groomer, I leave it in her safe hands to shave my Betsy. Ahh...can't imagine how she would look like. No more hair. Hairless. Naked. Hmmmm.

Almost after 1/2 day, Betsy is ready! It was 6:30pm evening, and I went to pick her up. The assistant asked me to pick her directly from the cage, cuz she was....well...erm, "difficult" to handle! Hehe...see...told ya!

Well, the groomer did quite a good job. At least, my dog is not entirely BOTAK. She is sooo thin. So small. And....so...ALIEN. Haha...yeah, look like an alien dog.

But I still love her as much! =)

Betsy & Me

2009-04-08T08:23:00.000-07:00

We still have to work tomorrow but we decided to watch the DVD movie of Marley & Me. A dog lover myself, this is indeed a show I enjoyed :) It reminds me of my own dog, Betsy...and they said, my dog is spoilt! They haven't seen Marley! Hehe!

I feel that this movie is not so much about the dog...it is the LIFE around the dog. The dog simply compliments the life of 2 individuals...although, after seeing this show, I am glad that my dog is so much more disciplined!

We took in Betsy since 2002...and she is the fondest amongst all the other dogs I ever had. I used to wake up with Betsy next to me...she's next to me when I am working with my laptop, when I am watching the tv, when I am reading the newspaper, almost everything I do. If she wants attention, she would climb up and sit on my laptop =P. After marriage, I moved out..and for the first few nights, she would wait for me at the porch to come home...

3 months later, she knew I will no longer spend the night at mum's house. She knew that, my bed will be empty..and she will have to sleep alone now. :) She no longer waits for me now :)

But she is still attached to me like a "kutu".. a term my sis used as she is jealous on how close Betsy is with me, even after I moved out. Hehe..I guess, the saying that, the dog has only ONE master..is so true.

Lost??!!!!

2009-03-31T22:19:00.000-07:00

I woke up this morning with ..... URRRGGGHHHHH!!! Period!! Again!! :( Looks like d sperm lost its way again!! If only it will stop and ask for direction....MEN! errm...I mean, SPERM!

Hehe...yeah, that's one of the joke I got from a friend. "Why does it take 1 million sperm to fertilise an egg?".......................exactly, cuz "they don't stop to ask for direction". Just like MEN when they are lost!!

Looks like now, I have to really be serious. Really have to heed to below advises:

1) Count 10 days from the 1st day you have your period.
2) Consume Bak Foong Pills
3) Never hop and run off to the bathroom right after XXX
4) Start a menstrual calendar

And voila...if you google..."How To Get Pregnant"...there are countless website full with information; really resourceful, but whether true or not....I simply have no idea :P

Ching Meng

2009-03-28T09:36:00.000-07:00

...or Qing Ming or Cheng Beng, also commonly known as All Souls’ Day.

For the Chinese, it is a day to remember and honor one's ancestor's at grave sites. Young and old pray before the ancestors, sweep the tombs and offer food, tea, wine, chopsticks, (joss) paper accessories, and/or libation to the ancestors.

Since my papa left us on 2000, we never miss this special day. Although none of us REALLY believe, we never failed to bring food (human-food) and bought paper money/replicas of shirts, shoes, etc. Deep inside, we hope he can enjoy his favourite food, and have new shirts for every occasions! The moment we light up the jossticks, we just want to believe that he is there. I always call this a "moment of denial". We just want to believe that he is eating the food, trying on the shirts and shoes...and this year...well, relaxing in his new OSIM Massage chair! Hehehe!

Hmm...wonder if I need to go with In Laws for Ching Meng this year? Arrgh...I hope I don't need to....can't imagine having to hike up hills under the scorching sun.... :(

Sushi Trip @ Gardens Mid Valley

2009-03-14T10:23:00.000-07:00

Must try! Must go and try out this Sushi place!! Fresh and reasonably priced, it is located near to Cold-Storage at the Gardens. Yummy Yum!!

Anyway, took both my nephew and niece (and mum) to try it out!! I try not to blog about food, but this place..mmm...yum! Must try is the Sashimi Mori (RM 20) and Ebiten Ebikko Maki (RM 4.90)...cheap cheap compared to that at Rakuzen. Enough about sushi.

Reason I am blogging about this is because, this is the first time, my dearest nephew decides to treat us (me & mum). Of course I would not let him pay for the sushi bill...instead, took him to Big Apple Donuts and...

How nice eh? Mum was the happiest of all :)

Honeymoon trip?

2009-03-03T09:38:00.000-08:00

I repeated many times...I am going to BKK with my mum. Only me & mum. How can it be a honeymoon trip? :P Of course, many people find it strange that I am going for a holiday with my mum and not with my hubby. Well...it just so happened that Airasia was having a promo and hubby can't confirm the dates, so, ended up, I booked for mum instead.

It was the first overseas trip with mum alone. Ahh..wish dad can join too.

Anyway, we stayed at Pratunam which was touted as the clothing haven of BKK. Food cost slightly higher here, probably due the the presence of businessman/traders from overseas. I didn't manage to get any clothes, as I find their fashion is a little behind. We stayed at Citin Pratunam hotel, very clean and friendly staff :) Room internet speed sucks, but location is good...walking distance to shops and at night, many street traders with interesting food (mostly bbq) and delicious thai coconut can be found almost everywhere!

After 2 nights at Citin, we moved to Citadines furnished apartments located at Sukhumvit. I just luv contemporaray & chic rooms! Near to BTS Skytrain, it was so convenient! I took mum to the weekend market, Chatucak as well as Siam Paragon for shopping. So different from Pratunam! We also visited China Town, but I was a little dissapointed as there was not much things to see. It is just like our Petaling Street in MY, just that, the stores in BKK China Town is bigger. But then again, fashion wise...hmmm.

Overall, enjoyed the trip very much with mum. It will be one of the most unforgetable moments for me :). Especially the time when both of us have to walk through sexy girls wearing skimpy clothes along the road. We took this shortcut "Soi Cowboy" each time we go for the Skytrain. Mum is so uneasy seeing young girls with bra n fishnet stockings walking around!! Naughty, naughty!!

So, how can men not be tempted? There are so many fishes here. Kekeke...must ensure hubby NEVER go to BKK without ME. Haha!

My 1st Mrs Valentine!

2009-02-14T07:55:00.000-08:00

14th Feb...every year without fail...until today, he still bring me flowers on this special day. He likes to hide the bunch by putting it behind his back, but I always can tell :) Of course, not to spoil the fun..I would just pretend not knowing it :P Haha...how can I not know...it has been so many years!

Since this is the 1st Valentine as Mr & Mrs, we decided to have our dinner at an old place...the place we used to have our romantic dinner 15 years ago..THE SHIP at Damansara Utama. Yup, it was this same old branch. We headed to the place around 7pm...thinking that, not many people will go there nowadays since there are so many eateries around, but surprise surprise...there was a huge crowd waiting outside! It spilled out to the road! Geez...he insisted, and we were at queue number 999,999,999....can't remember!

I finally managed to persuade him to have a simpler dinner and...here we are! YHK Seafood Yong Tau Foo...few doors away from The Ship! Hehehe...food was delicious and we enjoyed the meal minus the candles and "sailors"! Luv the chee cheong fun here.......YUMMMMMMMMMMYYYYYYYYYYYYY :)

New Year's Eve!

2009-01-31T03:23:00.000-08:00

Darn. My brother is organising a BBQ at his house. Apart from the family members, he will be inviting few of his friends too. Darn.

Don't get me wrong, I luv BBQ and family gatherings. I love to spend time with my family, especially my lovely niece and nephew. But, new year's eve? When the clock strikes twelve tonight, the whole world will know that it is my birthday! I am sure, he will keep everyone for the countdown...and to celebrate my birthday as well. Those strangers, will have no choice but to sing me a birthday song. And my dearest sister-in-law, will bake me a cake.

Don't know why, but I always prefer to have my birthday celebrated with people close to me. Not with a bunch of strangers. Arrgh. Imagine everyone looking surprised when the birthday song is sang...and they have no choice but to sing a long. Geez. Really not something I look forward to.

I really appreciate their intentions, but then again, I really hope we won't do so next year. I must find a way to tell him =P

The most touching moment was when my niece & nephew presented me with a birthday card and present!! Wahh...present?? I was almost speechless as I never expected it. Present from my niece and nephew? Hand made card too? Wow!! Never thought of it. Hehe. Very thoughtful of them, and indeed, it made my day =)

Angpows!!

2009-01-26T09:24:00.000-08:00

Finally! Finally!! These are the words from my nephew, nieces, cousins, etc, etc. Even uncles, aunties whom are not getting any angpows from me, but still chant FINALLY.

And while counting the numbers, only did we realise that we have so many youngsters to give angpows to! Wahh....and since this is our first year, we have to give one angpow each! "Well..think of the many years we have saved!" says my hubby. Kekekeke...how true it is! :)

Luckily, it was a reunion LUNCH with MIL. That means...I can have reunion DINNER with my mum! Yippeeee!! Hopefully, this will be the tradition to go for years to come! Isn't it perfecto!

I wonder if anyone would come to visit this CNY? Hmm...let's not waste the wishing tree from my wedding. Redecorated it a little...and ta da...GONG XI FA CAI!!

Reunion Dinner @ Mum's

2009-01-25T10:58:00.000-08:00

Yahooo!!! I am having reunion dinner at my mum's place!! Yippppeee! Yay! Yay!

Ever since our grandpa passed away, we will have a "mini" reunion dinner at mum's house. "Mini" compared to our previous gathering of 30++ relatives! Every year without fail! Luckily, after marriage...my 1st year that is, (and hope that in years to come) I still get to spend this special day with mum :)

Our menu is alwiz STEAMBOAT. It's easy to prepare, and everyone can play a part :) And, how can we miss "LOE SANG"!!! This year, it is prepared by my 4th aunt whom is a vegetarian...and surprise, surprise..it tastes good! :)

TOGETHER..

2009-01-15T09:35:00.000-08:00

Many people has been asking me. "How's your marriage life?" I guess, this is the usual greetings to newly married couples. I have been struggling to answer..."Ok" seems too casual..."Very Good" will lead to more questions...but if I remain silent and ignore the question...will lead to misinterpretations!
Well..so, how is it? I asked myself today.

Honestly, I luv every minute of it :) Yes, I have been with the same ol guy for 15 years...things will be quite predictable. But I guess the fact that we did not live together before this...makes our marriage something different. There are so many things that are our FIRSTs.

We make up our bed together in the morning.
We will clean the house together.
We cook together.
We wake up together.
Breakfast together.
Many things done, together!

Yeah...suddenly, there are so much things that we DID together. Although we have BEEN together for so long, we used to be very independent in many ways. Now, instead of us driving our own cars, I will let him drive me around :) In some ways, to be dependant on him feels nice =)

And also, we discovered many things that we didn't know about each other. Yes, 15 years....and there are still new things to be discovered. Hehe...luckily, it wasn't any unpleasant things!

1) He drinks Nescafe every morning & nite
2) I crowned him the King of Mop - he is very good at this task :P (lucky me!)
3) Computer & internet is his 2nd "wife"

and many more! So, yeah....LUV my life now. Definitely a new chapter, and I look forward to waking up next to him everyday! Next mission now is to have little Wongs...