Purple Martini

UPDATE!

2010-04-03T21:20:00.004+08:00

Oh gosh, I feel like I have been missing on updating a quarter of my life here!

Well, many eventful things happened, events happened, came and go, but I'm definitely thankful people that came stayed in my life until today. If I am going to update the amount of events that happened during that vacant period of time when I was 'away' it is definitely going to take hours and I am definitely not going to bore anyone to their grave.

What I am going to summarize is that if there is anything that is worth mentioning, is that I found a solace I belong, things that are close to my heart and have decided to dedicate time and life to pursue and fight for these causes.

I am perpetually thankful for the awesome friends I have and God.

I have recently been contributing to another joint blog, Conservation Cove, as the name suggests, a cause for the conservation of nature and animals. We believe in sustainability of the environment, to share conservation issues and messages to the public, especially visitors at the zoo. We use real animal specimens, are there every first Saturday and every following Sundays of the month.

I believe my absence in this blog may be caused by the amount of time I spend on Conservation Cove and watching Glee plus other stuffs on TV.

I still am a movie buff, enjoying life, loves Nadal and tennis, good food and still has jet black hair =)

The Rollercoaster Ride

2008-09-18T23:09:00.004+08:00

Life is a whirling rollercoaster ride. When you thought that you're at the peak, you're coming down 70 degrees, 100 feet downwards. But would I even need to write if there are no such unpredictable events.

I felt awful for abandoning my baby for a month while I sorted out my unemployed status. Life was a total distress when you are going through sleepless nights and imagining counting pennies. But I am glad life is back to the start of the rollercoaster, however I still see the 70 degrees plunge just ahead of me.

And I wasn't wrong at all. As much as my life has took a turn into a new dimension altogether, it still very much contain mixed feelings. I guess the excitement never failed to fold in but at the same time the thought of what could unfold next still scares me.

However, this is life. I have learnt to move on from one step to the next no matter how big the step was. If it is the thunderstorm that I have and will go through, life has to go on. We should all make the best out of the situations that we have and we live in, treasure our love ones and the time with our closest family and friends because you will never want to look back, and think I shold have done that.

I think bumped into what I really want =)

The Dark Knight, duh!

2008-08-08T11:38:00.003+08:00

I can't believe I took so long to write this when I waited almost forever for it to be released! I felt like I spent my entire life wondering when is 17 July 08 coming... It's the best movie event of the year. It was darker, and definitely awesome. I swooned when the batmobile unraveled into the Batpod. Isn't it like just the freaking coolest bat gadget you've ever seen? A totally unexpected moment. I saw 10 Things I Hate about you recently, again, and I missed him to pieces... *sobs*

I can't believed I saw Love Guru and thought it was fun. When I came back and checked on the reviews, it was so bad but Mike Myers is classic man... The twisted and wicked humour just got me rolling on the floor.

Life's been nudging at me. I'm sure things will fall in place in time, but in time. Sometimes it scares the shit out of me but I'm really excited. Quarter-life crisis? Maybe, but I never wished or want to look at it as a crisis. It's time for a change, good change =)

The best birthday bash i've ever had...

2008-07-14T11:22:00.015+08:00

The Gang:

Introducing... (Clockwise from Top Left) Kuang Hau, Khairul, CJ, Kelvin, Regan, Xiao Wen, Moe Moe, Myself and Siew Voon.

I couldn't ask for a better company =) I had a fabulous, fabulous time with the hunks and babes that night.

Strawberries Time!

The Dinner, and The Cake:

We had the most sumptuous, yes, the BEST Indian food in town. I love Indian food because of its strong flavors and spices, and I have tried many Indian restaurants in town. Aangan Restaurant serves a variety of North Indian cuisine and we ordered various dishes from chicken tikka masala to mutton vindaloo (must try!) to malai methi fish. With the extensive variety and ambience fit for a king, we could never asked for a better dinner.

Aren't they beautiful?

Canele's Signature Cake is luxuriously rich with belgian chocolate and decorated with generous amount of strawberries and raspberries. its the best birthday cake I've ever had! I love you babes!

The Presents!
My girlfriends decided that since I am absolutely single, this could be just perfectly what I needed:
I love the cute little straw bag from Martina Pink and the smell of Crabtree and Evelyn's Summer Hill bath and shower kit too! Oh and the danglies! Mmmuacks!

The After-Party:
We partied like there was no tomorrow. The guys were amused by our dance moves and energy. The initial plan was Butter Factory but I forgot why we took a stroll to New Asia Bar instead. Yup, its the ultimate SPG place and no - I repeat, NO, I am not and neither of us are SPGs.

The extra in the picture is Kenneth, who couldn't join us for dinner because of his tennis tourney.

Top Left: Our first drink, strawberry magarita and Mojito.
Top right: We're all from of Taiping, and absolutely proud of it!

This is the best birthday bash I've ever had. Thank you all so much for coming =)

Happy Birthday to ME!

2008-07-11T11:59:00.002+08:00

Yours truly has arrived at the quarter-life mark today.

I woke up, walked out to the balcony to the bluest skies, chilly breeze and warm sunlight. This is so not Singapore, I'm not sure if it's pouring in the other parts but it was just perfect where I was =) My precious peeps and I will be having a birthday dinner-clubbing party tonight.

I'm excited! The quarter-life mark signifies transitions, exciting turns and fabulous adventures. Of course uncertainties are up ahead, but I'm naturally always positive about life.

So there, happy 25th birthday to me!

The New King Of Wimbledon (Wimbledon Men's Final 2008)

2008-07-07T10:10:00.005+08:00

For years, we all wondered who could possibly be the man who can stop Roger Federer, the king of Wimbledon. Last night's match tells it all.

Federer was dethroned in the longest match ever in history, thanks to two breaks for rain, in 5 sets, 6-4, 6-4, 6-7 (5-7), 6-7 (8-10), 9-7. It was a perfect dream match for all tennis fans, with two players changing strategies frequently to yield the game from Nadal attacking Federer's backhand to Federer counter-attacking by net-rushing. It was as if Federer was mentally burdened by the shadow of the Roland Garros loss.

Deuces after deuces, I cannot imagine if Rafa did not win the championship after breezing off to a fantastic start. After the second break, it was gruelling, as it was getting darker and the players were tired. Rafa shed a tear upon approaching the net, this was the most important game in his professional life and the prize was more glittery than the four French Open titles he had already won. I shed a tear too, because nobody deserves it more than he do.

The Documentary Weekend

2008-07-01T16:28:00.005+08:00

I love good documentaries as much as superhero movies. I had been following Nat Geo's Top 30 like a kid following Boomerang's cartoons. The documentaries had been enlightening, and great cinematography too.

My Sunday was full with documentaries (Top 5)and I managed to finish Perfect Match by Jodi Picoult, for the second time. Inside the Forbidden City was voted number 1, last night, although that wasn't exactly my top favourite. I flinched when I heard that men, except the army, were forced (some even volunteered?) to be castrated in order to be a staff in the Forbidden City. And yes, both the penis and scrotum, and not everyone survived...

I loved Undercover In The North Korea, I think it was very brave of the crew to even get into such reclusive state. It was an eye-opener, the dictatorship ruling is overbearing and dehumanizing. I Didn't Know That never failed to amuse me as well.

Always remember, in between black and white, there are a thousand shades of gray.

The king of clay rules again! (Roland Garros - 2008 French Open Finals)

2008-06-09T14:58:00.002+08:00

Armed with an unbelievable forehand and unmistakable grunt, Rafael Nadal powered his way through to beat Roger Federer to a stunning win of his fourth consecutive French Open title in three sets 6-1, 6-3, 6-0.

Yes, it was a massacre. No more short balls. There was just slaying. I was overexcited when Rafa yielded the second set, although there were intense moments when Federer broke even 3-3 in the second set. Taking sneak peeks in between my revision on Corporate Finance exam this week (sigh), I was hyperventilating when Federer's indecisive strategies fell all over the place and Rafa blasted his strokes through to win a 6-0.

Of course its not surprising, although I expected more of Federer (not out of sympathy but just for prolonged suspense) but we all know Rafa is invincible on clay and Federer did not play his best tennis this time round. The champion who floats around the court with slick tennis moves doesn't look like he's got his mind on the game. Looks like Federer's got to work for another title to complete his career Grand Slam.

A Beautiful Lie (Re-release 2007)

2008-06-04T14:29:00.015+08:00

Did I mention since early this year the latest album from 30 Seconds to Mars has been my favourite? I loved their music, instrumentally, the dynamic and complex guitar tunes. I loved their dramatic videos, a couple directed by Jared Leto himself (You might remember him from Urban Legend). And I loved their lyrics (especially From Yesterday, A Beautiful Lie), the reflective lyrics with Jared Leto's notable expressive wail. Their alternative rock music is amazing.

I recommend of course, A Beautiful Lie, The Kill and From Yesterday. Also, from their first album, Capricorn. I was amazed by the dedication and inspiration of the band to highlight the issues of global warming affecting the life of the beautiful people and nature of the Artic Circle (www.abeautifullie.org).

Though I agree A Beautiful Lie is not an album for everyone as the album builds upon a story of frustration and pain, 30 Seconds to Mars will always be on my alternative rock hit list.

More from the alternative rock scene: Poets of the Fall - Carnival of Rust. The video is freaking awesome! (thanks, Anil =)). Check it out here.

Janice's 25th Birthday Masquerade

2008-06-02T14:19:00.004+08:00

Happy birthday, Princess Janice!

We had a fabulous time meeting new friends, cam-whoring with our masks (pictures courtesy of Xiao Wen) to watching Mr. G performing a little striptease for the little princess in a game that resembles 'spin the bottle'. I doubt I should reveal his identity since he's a school teacher and it wouldn't be exactly very pleasant if parents find out *grin*

The Ferrero Rocher-dark chocolate birthday cake was heavenly...

Sex and the City (The Movie)

2008-05-29T10:43:00.004+08:00

I can't remember many TV series which pulled off very well to the big screen but to me, this was a pretty successful one. It translated well for all girls and women of all ages and it definitely has to be on every Girls Night Out agenda.

Let me tell you why:
The galore of beautiful dresses, shoes, Louis Vuitton bags. Relationship dramas. Weddings. Adorable babies. And, did I mention hot male nudity?

My favourite characters in the movie has always been Samantha Jones and Carrie Bradshaw. Samantha - for her crazy sexual antics and lines. And I always feel I can relate myself to Carrie in certain ways.

So.. Which SATC character are you?

Which Sex and the City Character Are You?
	You are Carrie. You know what you want out of a relationship and you're not afraid to keep moving until you get it. Wit and charm are your biggest turn-ons, and you like guys who appreciate you for your mind as much as your body. You have fun playing the dating game, but secretly you just can't wait to find the guy who sweeps you off your feet and carries you into the sunset.
Find Your Character @ BrainFall.com

A place call home

2008-05-21T16:09:00.014+08:00

I love Taiping. The comforting lifestyle that I indulge in my hometown - dim sum in the mornings, lazy drive around the lake gardens, the hustle and bustle of the night markets and supper hangouts, my mum's assam laksa and a jogging session with my dad.

I recently pondered upon this question. Where is home? Its a strange, divided thought I have never had.

I used to fight my mind to not believe that I could live in and call this country a place called home. But perhaps, living in this urban jungle cluttered with endless responsibilities and commitments (i.e work and studies) and juggling them like a clown, I'm just tired of that now and let myself be absorbed into the fact that it doesn't even matter anymore.

Iron Man

2008-05-02T11:38:00.009+08:00

I dig superhero movies *geeky grin*. The new superhero in town doesn't climb buildings like Spidey, nor does he see through walls (or everything else ;)) like Superman but he's totally freakin' awesome!

Robert Downey Jr. is the bomb! He's surprisingly perfect as Tony Stark, the ingenious industrialist and every other way. Iron Man is prolly the best superhero movie up to date (after Batman). It was amazingly funny and realistic, compared to the others, had good balance of action, well-written humour and drama, yet managed to sustain the superhero feel.

And I bet his ride just made everyone in the cinema delirious. Its not a Lamborghini or Aston Martin but, she's totally hot and the sound she made just sent shudders down my spine. Presenting the Audi R8...

"The truth is.. I'm Iron Man." I hated the fact that it ended there but I can't deny I love that punch line.

Burgers, Anyone?

2008-04-27T23:28:00.010+08:00

Burgers are my one of my favourite temptation on the American menu because its awfully sinful. And since I have not had a good one for the longest time, I have decided to make my first beef patty for Sunday lunch, plus I've got the two usual guinea pigs in the house for my little experiment *grin*. And the final product..
I'm glad it turned out alright and Ken said it was the best 'Quarter Pounder' he ever had! *grin* I made 4 HUGE patties and just for sharing, these are the ingredients for the patties:

Dried basil
Oregano
Mixed herbs
Black pepper
One Egg
Cornstarch
Onions
Salt
Minced beef

Its really not as complicated as I thought it would be. Yours truly had a contented Sunday lunch :)

E-X-A-M

2008-04-22T11:34:00.009+08:00

I hate that word, don't you? But nothing can describe better than what is looking four days ahead (to mayday).

Maybe I should check when was the last time I blogged on exams. I was under the impression that exams were the only thing that is happening in my life (social life at stake?) especially with my buddies going - "Exams again?" and "I thought you just...".

Sometimes it just seemed so absurd that a person's performance and success in her career and life is judged based on the ability to remember what is written on page 22 of my lecturer's journal on Financing Export Activities and Exploring Constraints. My two cents on examinations.

International business strategy had been one of my favourite modules since the previous one last year. I enjoy reading actual case studies and articles about cross-border M&As and adaptation of strategies due to dynamics of the international environment.

Yours truly was low on energy again, until last week when the results on the IHRM exam was released. That was certainly a good boost and drive to survive the following week of massive indigestion of articles and textbook. And not to mention a relaxing pool session and lunch last Saturday with the girls, Xiao Wen and Moe Moe.

I'm starving.. and craving for Soup Spoon's clam chowder and smoked salmon sandwich.

ROM - Kelin and Tomkel (7 April 2008)

2008-04-08T10:36:00.008+08:00

Wedding bells, wedding bells! Congratulations to my dear friend.. Kelin and Tomkel tied the knot yesterday at the Registrar of Marriages, the event followed by a sumptuous and delicious high-tea buffet at Shangri-La Hotel.

The bride just looked stunning! I loved her short champagne gold tube dress from Daniel Yam. It was sexy, girlish yet classy at the same time.

Wishing you everlasting marital bliss :)

Dark Clouds

2008-04-04T10:54:00.017+08:00

I absolutely would never encourage anyone to work and pursue tertiary education at the same time. I can't be more excited thinking about walking out of the exam hall in August. But right now, yours truly is just feeling down low on energy, or low down, or whatever. AND, its only April!

Its really ironic thinking of how freakin' excited I was to finishing my course but at the same time dreading on attending classes after work. The feeling's really gotten onto my nerves. Not to mention other things placed in the backseat are taking the front instead. On the contrary, work has been quite fulfilling and rewarding, but not in monetary terms of course.. (I wished!).

I guess we can't always totally shield ourselves from distractions (If you've read my new year resolution entry). Especially when you really need to loosen up after a stressful week of shit. Distraction is the last thing I needed... It f*cked me up by affecting my conscience, turned me into an insomniac, and disrupted my focus and concentration. I was determined to fix and get my life back..

I vented my frustration on my hair by chopping off everything and turned it into a bob. I loved it (I haven't even had time to take any pictures since I cropped it!). It worked, and I thank God I did not end up looking like its Halloween everyday.

I turned to religion to seek solace and peace of mind. I never looked back but I prayed for forgiveness, of my sins and for not praying for an ultra long time.

Meditating before I sleep. This is the hardest of all, when you have a turmoil up in your head.

Oh well, life can never be a bed of roses all the time and it certainly ain't gonna be full of shit either. I hope the dark clouds hovering over my head will be cleared soon..

The Cool Alchemist

2008-03-18T14:09:00.012+08:00

Another good one from Paulo Coelho. It is interestingly imaginative, simple and inspiring. It tells a tale of a shepherd boy from Andalusia and his devotion of time and energy to literally realise his dreams, and how the universe conspires to help him achieve it. During his journey, he met many spiritual messengers that comes in a form of a crystal merchant, camel driver, etc.

A few simple thoughts from the book...

We always fail to notice, but often, it is the simple things in life that are the most extraordinary.

We are often trapped in the illusion of the world's biggest lie - our lives to be controlled by fate after reaching a point in which we think we have lost control of it. We are responsible for all our actions through our decisions.

Goals should be planned flexibly, with mini milestones, and life is too short to be planned comprehensively and absolutely.

The next furthest thing everyone should be planning is dinner *grin*

Bravo, Nole!

2008-01-28T14:08:00.006+08:00

I was elated. The boys played an unbelievably intensed match, despite the annoying fact that Channel 5 unexpectedly broadcasted X2 in the middle of the live match, during the third set after Jo-Wilfred Tsonga's revengeful smash to Novak Djokovic's in the previous set, and continued the delayed telecast at 10pm.

Deuces after deuces with each player claiming advantages countless times, Djokovic's hamstring strain in the third set and finally fighting his injury to claim his first Australian Grand Slam men's singles title in best of five (4-6 6-4 6-3 7-6 (7-2)). I admire Tsonga's risk taking attitude in his cross-court tactics. I enjoyed the match throughout and Djoker's amusing speech when he jokingly forgave the crowd for favouring Tsonga for the title - "I still love you guys, don't worry".

I was looking forward to some of his notable impersonations (Nadal, Roddick, Federer) after the match... but it didn't happen.

And I love the boys' Adidas Tennis Edge Tee...

As for the women's finals, I do not doubt Sharapova's powerful dominating serves and baseline strokes winning her way through to the title but I believed her annoying grunts played a part in putting her opponent in a mentally agitated state ;)

Heath Ledger - The Quiet Rebel

2008-01-23T14:32:00.000+08:00

I was in my client's conference room, waiting for the attendees while doing the necessary preparation to conduct the training when I heard a beep on my phone. My thoughts - Maybe my colleague or my boss decided to join in the fun. When I looked at my phone, I was paralyzed momentarily in front of my laptop by what Wen sent to me. Heath Ledger is dead. Such grave news on a beautiful morning.

He was the perfect selection for The Dark Knight-The creepy, devilish smile and the hysterical laugh of the psychopatic Joker, Brokeback Mountain-The tormented gay cowboy and finally, my favourite, the charming, unforgettable bad boy Patrick Verona in 10 Things I Hate About You. Back in 1999, that was the movie that made him the most unforgettable ol' school idol - his significant and charming grin and the perfect baritone. How could any girl resist the unforgettable 'Can't Take My Eyes Off You' football pitch/bleachers scene?

I believe it was an accidental overdose of sleeping pills. The scene of him wheeled out of his apartment was too surreal. Somehow, I always feel like there is so much to look forward to especially after such brilliant performance in Brokeback Mountain and The Dark Knight. I hate the thought that there will be no more Heath Ledger on big screen. I doubt I will be able to hold back my tears in the next Batman. My heart goes out to his 2-year-old daughter Matilda.

Rest in peace, you will be missed by many.

BKK - Haven for shoppers, foodies..

2008-01-13T17:13:00.001+08:00

I missed everything about Bangkok, except the humidity and I wished we had more than 2 full days in BKK. For shopping, we managed to visit Chatuchak weekend market, MBK mall, Patpong and Suan Luam. Minus the humidity and the unbelievable weekend crowd, Chatuchak is a haven for street shoppers. We bought plenty of T-shirts. Hmm, there's not much to shop at Patpong except souvenirs and Naraya, but I'm sure the guys had a great time *grin*, the dodgy scene is unforgettable. But frankly, I do admire the Thais liberal approach towards sex and diversed sexual orientation.

We managed to get cheap and good massage near our hotel, First Hotel in Petchaburi Road, something essential after all the walking. The above picture was taken near a balcony bar opposite Ratchathewi Station, about 10 mins walk from our hotel. The food was yummy and we had so much problem trying to ask the waiter to recommend food without pork/lard. Forget sign language, we will never get through a charade LOL.

But I would say that for two full days, we did manage to do lots of different activities, from the Grand Palace, we took multiple boat rides to Wat Arun and Wat Pho that cost us 8 baht per person.

Going back to BKK this year is definitely on my wishlish.

2008!

2008-01-12T14:45:00.001+08:00

Happy New Year 2008!!

Don't ask me why that particular picture. Guess which one's mine (hint: my bro decided to get good and cheap hot red manicure in Bangkok). Sorry bro, I can't help it. Cheesy mood. *grin*.

I told myself that I would try my best to end 2007 on a good note and I'm just glad I did. 2007 had been pretty much a rollercoaster ride for me, but I'm sure that's how life is made remarkable by the memorable events that I believe happened for a reason. To everyone, old and new friends who crossed path with me last year, cheers! 2007 will never be as memorable and eventful if it wasn't for you :)

I have only one resolution this year. That would be to successfully graduate with my degree by August '08. I know how unenthusiatic and matter-of-factly that sounds. Oh well, I just can't imagine myself staying back for another year and stripped off my honours just because I flop a module in my final year. So, I shall try my best to avoid and refrain from any form of distractions. Except movies *grin*.

Speaking of movies, I can't believe Batman is not going to be released till summer! Heath Ledger is so creepy.. Check out the trailer.

Movies, movies, movies..

2007-12-26T16:47:00.001+08:00

I missed Bangkok. I missed the food, the people and shopping. Two full days is just not enough.. I'm not even half contented with what we'd achieved. Shall upload the photos soon.

I saw four movies in two weeks! Haven't seen so many in the longest time..

I love The Golden Compass the most out of the four. I thought the characters and the talents were more convincing and impressive as compared to Narnia. The significance of the Daemons as the characters soul was brilliant. Meet mine - The snow leopard! I saw it on Wen's blog and thought it was cool *grin*. Hmm I have not read the book but I really don't see any notion or impression of anti-Christ in the movie despite all the controversies.

Will Smith was way cool in I Am Legend. The zombie flick was frightening because the zombies were so scary looking and would appear at every random manner! I gripped on to bro's and Khai's shirt throughout the entire movie. I thought it would be better if the movie would focus more on his role as the scientist and his research on the cure. I thought National Treasure was a bore. I guessed I've had enough of treasure hunting in the first one, and maybe the team decided to create a deja vu experience for all the fans. It has all the oh-so-predictable scenes.

Elizabeth:The Golden Age was extremely overrated. I was convinced by the trailer, IMDB and Cate Blanchett it would be good. It has a feel of Bollywood directions and impressions (Director: Shekhar Kapur), some soap-opera drama and the war scenes were extremely ambiguous. I loved Cate Blanchett as the virgin queen though. She staged a powerful performance as a strong and smart queen, married to her country but still had insecurities and portrayed irrational jealousies when it comes to men and love.

I missed Bangkok.

Do the stars gaze back?

2007-11-22T16:42:00.001+08:00

Neil Gaiman's Stardust is a magical and fantasy tale of a group of princes, evil witches and one charming, pure hearted soul, their adventures and obsessions in search for one thing that will change their lives forever but for different reasons - love, power and beauty.

I love the movie. It's the ultimate love story, oh well, of my kind. Claire Danes is gorgeous as Yvaine and Charlie Cox is hot.. and charminggg. Robert DeNiro is the ultimate bomb! Who cares about Jack Sparrow when we have Captain Shakespeare! I love Michelle Pfeiffer as the evil Lamia.. I can't think of anyone else who can pull it off as well.

The perfect date movie!

The Butter Factory - 1Nite Stand

2007-10-30T13:09:00.001+08:00

The salsa groupies had their second groovy outing (my first) last Saturday night. There's Anita-the hot mama, Henry-the carefree red head, Ho-Mr. I-am-Cool, Martin-Mr. Boogie-Woogie and myself.

The Butter Factory at Robertson Quay would be the first on my list for any groovy R&B / Hip-Hop night. I had a blast. It was after my (inhales..) International Competitiveness and Technological Change exam and the timing was perfect.

We were at The Butter Factory. It was Halloween celebration and I felt totally underdressed. YES, AND furthermore, Anita came with new blond streaks, Ho had a new haircut and Henry's turned fiery red. We have no idea how super-efficient the crowd control at Butter was, when we went out for a breather, we weren't let in again because it was too crowded. The queue was crazy.

That was why we moved over to 1Nite Stand at Clarke Quay (Anita's faveee club). They played a pretty good mix - extremely good, when you don't even need to pay a single cent to dance!

We partied till dawn. Ho treated us supper (Umm.. breakfast? It was 5am).

Great company. Great music.

Revenge is Sweet But...

2007-10-22T14:14:00.001+08:00

Just when you thought revenge was satisfying, you faced another embarrasing defeat in the Madrid Masters finals to a 25th-ranked Argentine.

I can imagine the contentment Nalbandian felt and how despaired Federer got. After all, he redeemed his embarassing double defeat to Canas earlier this year in a straight 6-0, 6-3 to reach the quarterfinals.

Nalbandian was way beyond what Federer expected. He was serving powerfully, and Federer totally underestimated his strength. For me, tennis is all about the moment you set a foot in the court, the first impression and expectation you place upon your opponent. If the opponent got better than your expectations, it is sure not easy to heal the bruised ego and replenish your confidence.

I wished from the start for a Nadal-Federer or a Djokovic-Federer finals showdown. But I wasn't expecting too much from Nadal (even though he was playing at home) because he has yet to fully recover from his knee injury, poor thing! And plus, I'm sure there's alot of pressure playing at home with such high expectation from fans.

I totally respect the good sportsmanship of Nadal and Federer. Nadal never uses his injury as an excuse if he loses a match and Federer never blames the weather or his coach or his racquet (excuses made popular by Alonso - weather, tyres, team).

Ultimately, losing with grace is what respected most :)

New Blog Announcement

2007-10-22T12:28:00.001+08:00

Ah-hem! My bro has joined the blogging scene! Welcome to Blogger, bro.. I'm sure he has plenty to blog about, from girls to missing his peeps in London to the coolest gadget to accesorise with ;)

Click HERE to check it out.

As for me, I'm facing massive indigestion of articles and notes.. exam forInternational Competitiveness and Technological Change (doesn't the sound of it just left a lump stuck in your throat?). Oh well, actually ICTC is not that bad.. We've got a cool yet responsible lecturer who replies emails in minutes (yes, minutes!) to help us.

Gory Evening..

2007-09-26T11:12:00.000+08:00

Tues, 25 Sept 2007

7.30pm: Got back from work, warmed up and went for the usual run.

8.00pm: Done with running, stretched all I can (I'm extremely prone to leg cramps) while watching World Cafe Asia on Discovery Travel and Living.

8.30pm: Shower.

9.00pm: Packed dinner. Met a lovely young lady with an incredibly adorable mixed breed fox terrier at the lift lobby.

Me: What a lovely dog!
Lovely lady: Oh, she's very friendly. You can touch her, she won't bite.
Me: I'm sure she's friendly. What's her name?
Lovely lady: Gory.
Me: Gory as in G-O-R-Y?
Lovely lady: Yes, Gory.
Me: .......That is quite a name. Hi Gory! (pats Gory while she jumps all around in the elevator). Oh, that's my floor. See you!
Lovely Lady: Bye!

Tears of Melancholy

2007-09-15T12:50:00.000+08:00

I have no intention to question or criticize the ethical and cultural beliefs and practice of arranged marriages. I wish to relate from a good friend, his personal experience and this is merely my point of view. With respect, I made a promise to keep his identity anonymous.

We live in a liberalized society and country. We decide our preferable educational institutions, our own career path and even granted a rightful amount of freedom of speech. We decide our own purpose in life.

Didn’t they say love is colorblind? You may think that everyone is at liberty to choose their own soul mates, especially in a multi-cultural country. There are still instances where teenagers and young adults are forced into arranged marriages by their parents. When I mention force, I literally mean no questions asked. To illustrate my point of view in arranged marriages, it would be a bird caged in the forest.

I do believe, religious and cultural beliefs need to be respected and practiced as a guide to basic principles of life. But to achieve accomplishing and gratifying goals in life, everyone should have the privilege to choose the path they wish to travel.

Being a person in her 20’s, I can’t be more grateful that my parents are very supportive of my series of decisions in life and there has been no cultural or ethical hurdle that prevent myself from doing what I want to do.

When I see the sorrow and tears in his eyes when he told me, “We had no choice. She had to follow her parents’ wish”, I think of a heartbroken couple deprived of genuine bliss.

Fedex, again?!

2007-09-10T16:01:00.000+08:00

Who thinks that the world of tennis is extremely overwhelmed with Federer, Federer and more Federer, please raise their hands.

Me!

Oh well, it's not like I don't think he deserves to win the US Open, he plays fantastic tennis. But the game has become overly predictable. My hopes were riding high for Nadal, but he was down with a left knee injury.. Poor thing..

I'm really glad Justine Henin won the women's finals. 6-3, 6-1. Two straight sets! Woo! Even Fedex went through two tiebreakers. If he hadn't won the third set, Djokovic could have had the chance to win the best of five.

I'm a sucker for tennis players with hot bods (especially one with biceps like Nadal).. *Slurps*

The picture above's not a perfect one because tennis players forearms are usually larger than the other, and he's lefthanded.

That was prolly reason number 2 I got myself into playing and watching the game. Reason number one, I simply love playing it.

My New Baby!

2007-09-06T16:25:00.000+08:00

Tadaaa! My baby has a new look, and a new name!

I feel awful for neglecting her for a while..

But I guessed since life's changed, I changed..

Oh well, not that the title bears any significance, it was just a random dash of thought. I'm such a random person and that part of me will never change. Purple is one of my fave shades and martini as one of my preferred cocktails.

A quote that caught my eye last week:
"Do not look back, and do not dream about the future, either. It will neither give you back the past, nor satisfy your other daydreams. Your duty, your reward - your destiny - are here and now." (Dag Hammarskjold, UN secretary-general 1905 - 1961)

Autobots, Transform!

2007-07-02T12:08:00.001+08:00

Smashing, crashing and screeching metals! I'm hooked! I was never a Transformers fan, I did watch Beast Wars/Machines and also the 2D version but that was like eons ago. Honestly, I could never imagine saying this, and moreover, it's a Michael Bay film (I'm not like a huge fan, Armageddon and Pearl Harbour was alright, The Island sucked) and his best so far..

I was just extremely amazed by the computer graphics of the movie! The CG during the transformation of the robots was superb. It was hell of complicated, I couldn't figure out what was happening! Megatron and the other Decepticons was way, way beyond evil, but I thought Megatron was well-designed, a cool villain. Every robot has a unique sound when they transform (my favourite is Bumblebee, his transformation is simulated by the sound of clashing swords and blades) and I thought it was freaking cool when Megatron and Starscream transformed in midair!

I still have this question in my head: Why does the robots have stains of dirt and scratches on their bodies after they have transformed, but looked so clean and glossy when they're in their vehicle forms?

Josh Duhamel is hot, hot, hot!

I don't know about Megan Fox being the lead actress in the movie because I thought Rachael Taylor totally outshone her performance. What's with the 24-7 sultry look.. This ain't a beach movie baby!

The CG was the ultimate visual entertainment.. Period.

Click HERE for the movie website.

Passing Sparkles

2007-06-29T17:01:00.000+08:00

You came like passing shower of stars
Short, dazzling moments
Moments that sparkles
But it dimmed away soon
...Too soon

Am I supposed to believe it happened
And let you linger on
Anticipating the moment
You will appear at the door
Anticipating the moment
I can hear your voice again

I wished to let it pass
But, painful as it is
To imagine the day
You will no longer be in my mind
The day I will not hear your voice again

Every thought of your voice
Warms my heart and soothes my soul
But still, it pierces me like a dagger
Knowing that we will never meet again
Knowing that you were the passing sparkle that never return

Crocodile Hunter

2006-09-05T11:15:00.000+08:00

Isn't the tiger cub just adorable? Thanks to Steve Irwin, some of these misunderstood creatures have a place called home. He was one of the most active conservationist in the world. And he was the only reason I love watching Animal Planet so much (and Jeff Corwin too). My heart goes out to Terri and the kids.

We will miss all the fun, Hunter...

Back to School

2006-08-22T17:50:00.000+08:00

Hmm, I actually thought that going back to school would mean making new friends and doing stupid things that you've done during your good old school days. But studying and working is darn tiring. I was extremely exhausted for the first month. There were about 5 classes in a week, by the end of the week I would just too tired to even open my eyes for a movie.

But, I had meet some really nice people and that's just what I want out of school (besides just getting my paper at the end of that two years ;) )

Little Toe

2006-05-17T11:30:00.000+08:00

Losing a toe nail is not at all fun nor should it be experienced by any normal human being... It's an image disaster and worse, it freaking hurts!!! Well, it might earn you a day off from work but it's not worth it. Think of the weeks you have to go through without being able to wear your fave heels and shoes. Sadly, I had just lost my little toe's nail. Well, it happened when I was on the way up the escalator, a "visually impaired" guy thought the escalator I was on is going down. So this guy actually stick out a foot towards the escalator and then realised that it was going down. I have no idea why everything just have happen in that second! When he stuck out his foot, it hit my little toe and tore my toe nail out of my skin!

If only I was a second late? If only I was in shoes? If only the moron would know how to differentiate the vast difference between an upriding escalator and a downriding one?

Oh well, I screamed at the top of my lungs when the doctor applied some anticeptic cream on it and tried to hide my toes to avoid more. Well, it got alot more comfortable later after the dressing with the extra bandages on.

Five ways to avoid losing a toe nail:
1) Do not let anyone put a foot less than 5 inches away from yours. Scream if it happens.
2) Invest in a pair of Birkies, even though it might cost you 5 pairs of pretty sandals from Charles and Keith. Birkenstock sandals protects your toes from hitting any object that might harm your pretty toes.
3) Be fully alert when you're walking around an extremely crowded area.
4) Do not concentrate too much on a cute guy who's on the same escalator, you can enjoy the view after u hop out of it.
5) Watch out for people who walk around without their heads.

Ah, despite all the pain and fuss, I have learnt to love and take better care of my feet alot more now.

Butterfly Effect

2006-03-24T15:05:00.000+08:00

It's Friday and I'm sitting in my office hoping for the clock to turn to six in a wink. Blahh.. Dream on... Well, I was just thinking about this movie that I watched with my bro and Ken last weekend. I think it was released pretty long time ago starring Ashton Kutcher. I remembered my friend telling me what a boring movie it was, I've always trusted my friends' reviews so I wasn't really bothered to watch it back then. Til Ken bought the DVD about a week back so three of us decided to spend our Sunday on the movie at home.

It wasn't at all bad nor boring, but it just left this really weird feeling in my stomach, after watching it. Well, I had to admit it was pretty repetitive where throughout the entire movie he was just trying to read his childhood journal and change the past. Awfully, nothing came out the way he wanted BUT just came out worst of it. Obviously if u change the past or the time, the chain reaction created will lead to a different future. The title explains it all. One part that really left me really sick in the stomach is when he tried to save a lady and her baby from being killed by a bomb placed in a mailbox by his friend, he returned to the future without his limbs as a result of the explosion. Not only did he lost his limbs, he found out that his "loser" good friend is dating the love of his life.

There was also another scene at the fortune teller where the lady told him that he has no life line (People who knows about palm reading will know what I'm talking about) and he wasn't meant to be in this world. Creepy eh?

I guessed that was why he finally thought that things would go better without his existence in this world so he finally decided to re-write the final part of the diary where he would be born a still-birth.

It just kept me wondering sometimes, if there is a thing that you would change in your past, what would it be? Many times I have wondered, if I have not come to Singapore today, how would my life be right now. But now, I believe it would be better to live a life while you can than to think about the "what-ifs".

Til then.

The Gallagher Brothers!!

2006-02-10T14:13:00.000+08:00

What's The Story(Morning Glory). My favourite Oasis album of all times. Hmm.. They did stop for three years after Heathen Chemistry and we fans just kept waiting. And now they're back with a new album. And yes, they will be in town! HURRAH!!! I'm impatient for the 23rd of February. They're legendary (almost). U2 is legendary man... Another band which I hope to have a chance to meet. Glad they won the most number of Grammy's.

I remember there was once my boyfriend and I sang Champagne Supernova out loud with his MP3 player plugged in our ears while we were walking back home and there was this old man who walked passed. He just stared at us and shook his head like we were out of our mind. Ahh.. Wonderwall, Don't Look Back in Anger, Hey Now... Unforgettable tracks.

Oasis rocks on!!

Red Packets and Mandarin Oranges

2006-01-27T11:13:00.000+08:00

These items are symbolic, when you see it, you know that Lunar New Year is near. This is one of the very few occasions where my friends and I would get the opportunity to get together and spill the happenings in our lives and from there we would see how much working or living independantly have change who we are.

Although it has been a typical practice but it's always been a well deserve break from the tiring working life (hmm, actually it's just the start of a new year and we're already enjoying another stretch of long holidays when i'm still immersing myself with thoughts of the previous holiday in Genting Highlands). Yes, Genting was a fun trip, counting down to 2006 on the peak of chilly Genting. Ken, Wen, David and I. We should have gotten somebody to take the picture of four of us! Hmm..

Til then, to all Chinese peeps out there, Happy Lunar New Year and to the rest, enjoy the long holidays!!

The Eve of New Year's Eve

2005-12-30T16:45:00.000+08:00

I know it's abiiiiit late for Xmas wishes but there's 12 days of Christmas right? Right? Hee hee.

Anyway, to all the working geeks and chicks out there(including myself), today's the last day of work for 2005! CHEERS!!!!!!

Nenek

2005-12-27T15:49:00.000+08:00

Nenek is the name of my housemate, Steve's cat. It means "Grandmother" in Malay language. She's a pretty girl with big, bright grey eyes, but also occasionally defensive. She would purr and snuggle lovingly when being tickled at the neck or her belly. Strangers might get her wrongly and misunderstood as she would just hiss and inch away whenever she saw them. We never blamed her for that though. Notice that her left leg is a stump. And her left ear is being sliced at the tip. We can't really conclude what happened to her, neither could Steve but we assume due to her defensive character, she might have been abused before, perhaps by her previous owner or been through a tragic accident. We can't really bring anything to conclusion. But we have never met a cat who is so defensive and cautious till the point that she would even get agitated if we chased her playfully.

Cats are lovable and enjoy purring and attention seeking from their owners. I believe that cats or any other pets should not be purchased or kept on impulse. It takes a while to lay your eyes and adore a pet but it takes alot of patience and commitment to take good care of it. Every pet deserves a good home as much as every human does as they feel, live and breed like just the rest of us.

My Travel Buddy

2005-12-22T12:19:00.000+08:00

As every usual morning, I will walk me, myself and I to the MRT station and while then I will have my MP3 player to accompany me, fill my ears with my favourite tunes easing my grouchy mornings.

A couple of days ago, when I was changing trains, walking to the other platform, I realise the music from the left side of my earphones became very intermittent. It felt like a deejay was deejaying nearby though. Wasn't very pleasant so I plugged it out and continued my journey without my travel buddy. Along the way, I prayed it was the earphones that was faulty instead of my player, so that I could just replace them without cracking my budget for a new player.

As soon as I reached my work place, I started up my laptop, plugged my earphones into my laptop and played a song. Geez, I found out that my earphones worked just fine, both sides. Then I realised that my player is gone.. It's been two and a half years, maybe it's about time though.

Now I finally realised that without my player my journey seems longer and I took notice of more people, including a lady who was drooling in her seat while enjoying her beauty sleep on the ever-crowded train. Hmm...

Now, there's 12 days of Christmas, 10 more to go so I gotto wish harder.. *Wish*.. *Wish*.. *Wish*..

Flowers & Wedding Bells

2005-12-19T17:57:00.000+08:00

Wedding bells are ringing!!!! Congratulations to both Sheng Rong and Larry on their BIG day! The pictures were great babe and you look fab. I'm so happy for both of you. Wished I could be there. Wishing both a blissful marriage.

CHEERS!

The Art of Star Wars

2005-12-18T20:57:00.000+08:00

When I was very young, my dad used to talk to me about Star Wars all the time. I'd absolutely no idea what was so fascinating with war between the stars? Galaxies? A big fan he was. I have no intention of speaking in the tongue of Master Yoda but when I saw "Star Wars: A New Hope" for the first time, I actually thought it was not bad at all.. During the period (the 70's) where the first Star Wars movie was made (now called Episode 4) the effects and the art was pretty unbelievable. Many would agree with me that it was probably the first of it's kind to inspire many other movies after Lucas's space republic creation.

I was and am no huge fan of Star Wars therefore the exhibition did not really excite me much until I went over to the science centre today. Well, there's really not much you could do during the weekends in Singapore, sometimes you gotto risk it and hope for some fun. It really did exceeded my expectation ALOT. I thought it would be just about scripts, movie characters sketches, but it was alot more than that. I love the fact that they potrayed and exhibited the costumes of the jedis, droids, wookies and also the models of the planes and fighters and sketches drawn by Mr. Lucas himself. There weren't much of the merchandise around, if you're looking for souvenirs.

Blah, well, it was a good trip and pretty worth it.

Til then.

Macy's Kingdom

2005-11-07T17:47:00.000+08:00

A dear friend of mine, Kyle, had just established a fund for innocent pets, abused or stranded in nature's disaster. Isn't it a shame to see our cute furry friends being abused everyday? You thought the worse was watching a kid kicked a kitten or a puppy in front of your eyes but there are more inhuman acts that many can scarcely imagine what these poor animals are going through.

So don't wait! Help them! Go to http://macyskingdom.blogspot.com/ for more information.

Deepavali Cookies & Thosai

2005-11-07T16:35:00.000+08:00

Deepavali had always been memorable. It's the perfect time to meet friends you don't have a chance to throughout the entire year. I just love the vibrant mood of colourful lights, my friends all dressed up well and pretty in their punjabi suits and sarees (You look great Khom, but I missed the chubby you!) Harjinder's house had always been the target for buffet lunch. The mutton and chicken curry, prawn sambal, salad and this year there was popiahs too, has always been very delicious and of course, filling. And Khom, you made my favourite chocolate cake! Love you babe, and your chocolate cake too. Muacks!

Things have been very tied up on Deepavali as I had to make a move back to Sing the next day, wish I could do more visitings and spend more time with all my friends. My apologies Suthar, wish I had the time. I'll make my way to KL one day.

There were lots of people that I really longed to meet but they weren't around. Missed you lot!

Life As A Rent

2005-09-12T17:26:00.000+08:00

When I moved again last year, I tried again and again to tell myself this is going to be the last time I'm gonna be shifting. But I guess it ain't happening. Life has been moving up and down the slope for the past couple of years. Times had been chaotic and unpredictable but still, there were good times.

Well, thumbs up IF:
i)You get lucky, you get a pretty room, good landlord etc etc.
ii)You get to explore new places(try to explore them before you move in)
iii)New shopping mall next door(better or not, there should be something good about it)
iv)Shortened your journey to work (which means you wake up later!)

On the other side IF:
i)You get a roommie who sleeps on his/her bed with his/her laundry
ii)Or a roommie who sleeps naked (good for some?)
iii)Landlords who walk into your feet everywhere you go
iv)Landlords who live and survive on your rent (you know what I mean)

I can't say if it's a plus or not, because I think it all depends on your own expectations and of course, luck! I've had really nice housemates and also the not-so-nice ones but overall you just get to meet people from all walks of life. Nice or not, they'll still be a patch out of a thousand pieces that forms the collage of your life.

And yes, before I step out, would like to welcome Steve and his cat who will be staying with us for the next couple of months. We would like to wish you all the best in everything you're working on, Steve.

Til then.

Blue Blue Monday

2005-09-05T18:32:00.000+08:00

Since the day I got my new job, I thought my Monday blues would be history. When I was still attached to my previous job, every Monday was the worst I had to imagine. What more, other people around you with their own blues will be trying to make your life hellish than ever. Fridays had been (and stilll is) the most glorious days of my life.

Now that I've switched, things have gone waaay better. I still get Monday blues, though, something that I couldn't understand why and still figuring it out all my life. I wonder if there's anyone out there who would go to work everyday without feeling or looking blue.

Maybe I need some motivation... Something to go to work for. Something to look forward to. The cute-guys-at-work theory doesn't work anymore, neither does Mr Good boss-cum-friend nor the flexibility at work. Anybody any good ideas? My colleague was talking about beautifying his table to like at least have a good impression on the first minute of work.. I haven't take a look at how he did yet.

Damn! I just forgot an appointment! Feel free to drop me ideas............ RUN!!!!

Victims of Katrina

2005-09-02T09:43:00.000+08:00

My daily life has pretty much been the same most of the time, not unless I get very early calls but I couldn't really complain because I get early notification (usually).

Everyday I would watch TV over breakfast. On the timing it would usually be either business news or if I'd be a little late then I'd hit the sports.

On one particular morning I switch on the TV and I saw cats and dogs and even people sitting on a roof of a tree! New Orleans was underwater! Suddenly there was a deja vu. It was like watching the tsunami ordeal again. As I was afraid I'd be late for work, I rushed over and read more on cnn.com.

It was deemed to be as harsh, cruel as the Asian tsunami. There were headlines- Survivors living among corpses, Thousands stranded and more. Those who survived were scrambling everywhere to a higher ground and to search for their lost loved ones, angry and hungry at the same time.

It was depressing to see so much happening and wondering what is happening next. Life has never been satisfactory but this time it's been cruel and merciless leaving stains of confusion and fear.

Those who wish to know more about Hurricane Katrina can look into these sites:
http://about.com/relief.htm
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hurricane_Katrina

My heart goes out to the victims of Katrina.
Til then.

Re:Of Malaysian Girls

2005-08-31T17:37:00.000+08:00

Audioblogs are cool. My first experience of listening to audioblogs was when my best friend, Wen asked me to check out hers online. It was amazing how crystal clear the audio was and not sounding like some radio-frequency-searching quality. I was delibrately entertained, not to mention Wen being such an interesting individual.

Her first audioblog episode- She was refering to another blogger, Finicky Feline who apparently submitted her opinions on why Singaporean men should or should not date Malaysian girls.
First of all, reasons. Why am I writing about this? A few words from a Malaysian girl herself and... Shouldn't I speak for the rest as well?

I typically find one of the "interesting" points amusing: Malaysian girls can't drive well, she actually passed her driving test with FLYING COLOURS even though she forgot to strap on her safety belt. WOW... You have to know something honey, in Malaysia, once you get into the car and you drive without the belt on, the test instructor will fail you immediately! So is she trying to point out that there's something going on (good or bad) in the Singapore's traffic policy? Maybe good as all Singaporeans will have no worries of failing their driving tests. Or she has a "special" priority (How does she get that? I wouldn't want to think of it!).

She did too mentioned that her friends can actually spot a Malaysian girl miles away from the way she dresses. Whoa! That's definitely something! On my side, I believe that many Malaysian girls have great individual fashion sense as compared to what Wen had pointed out as well: Singaporean girls look like duplicates all over the place! When everyone starts wearing super short spaghetti straps and revealing their bellies, I seriously do not see a unique or "sexy" identity at all! Imagine having to look out for your girlfriend in a midst of "girlfriends". Oh my...

I'm not trying to do a sequel of "Of Malaysian Girls" here nor am I equalizing all Singaporeans (I have had really great Singaporean friends around, you guys are great) but I just think that everybody is unique and people all around should see more of the other side of the world than just within two feet around them. I would deemed people who have yet to see what other people of other places are going through and more unfortunate sides of the world "ulu" rather than people who have seen, read and appreciate the colours of the world. Right now, all of us are enjoying ourselves, reading our favourite novel, surfing the best websites around the world and everything else, but have you thought of people who are staying in the other third world countries? They might probably be out there struggling to earn their daily bread.

Okay, I guess I will end it here for today.

Peace and blessings to the world. Till then.

My First Post!

2005-08-31T12:37:00.000+08:00

Short term for weblog, the blogging phenomenon started ages and ages back to the 90's, made popular in the 21st century, cheers to the team who started this remarkable idea of people posting online and sharing their accounts of daily life.

I've read and seen plenty of blogs from people of different walks of life. Some were amusing, some were informative, some inspiring and respectable and as usual there were also some who were as irritating. But as I still do respect personal thoughts, I find it as interesting as others. And today I finally found some time to sit down to create my very own blog, sharing my interest in writing and my personal comments.

The real reason I started this blog was because I've come to realise that I can't shun away from my passion for writing. I love to write. And am I excited about this? YES I AM! Nothing else makes me feel happier than letting words flow and run across a piece of paper (in this case, my lappy). Another thingy, I've read alot of blogs recently and I just would love to comment on the pieces I have read.

So there... My first posting...
Til then.