Rainbow Runway

Random pictures

2011-04-13T11:48:00.027+08:00

Family Portrait :)

Seb says Gong Xi Fa Cai!

Sebastian & Baby Ava sharing a private moment

Janice's kickass bibimbap and chap jae! Yummmmeh! :P~~

Melbourne & Sydney

2011-02-26T00:51:00.001+08:00

Seriously, i cant remember which pics are taken where :/ but its a mix of Mel & Syd. I think.

Us at the casino..

My sexy bitch.

Having viet for dinner. Super popular place.. but the food is so-so.

Yoow! We gorgeous!

Rubberface.

At the Blue Mountains in Sydney.

You'll never walk alone.

Stuff that makes you think

2011-02-23T16:05:00.001+08:00

A friend once told me - if you wish for something and it was given to you, you then take it for granted and start to abuse this privillege. Your future wishes would then not come true, cos you do not deserve it anymore.

*shutter*...... :(

What do you think?

Ich liebe dich

2011-02-15T22:13:00.003+08:00

This Valentine you made me verrrrrry happy ;D

Sydney

2011-02-13T16:47:00.024+08:00

Too late a entry. This was during last August... :P

Waiting for the ride of our life, of whales and dolphins. This 3 hour cruise is waaaay tooooo long. All asians onboard was throwing up like crazy or just lying flat on the table after 2hours.

Should stick to 1.5 next time. If there is.. :(

Starting the journey all fresh and happy!

Click click click non stop.

Ok.. this was about 40mins later.. novelty's over. Beginning to get bored, and abit dizzy.

Bye mainland Syd!

After 2 hours.. everyone was doing this, including me. Last man standing was Seb. We reckon becos he's a angmoh. :D

Met up with Zelley finally!

And Caroline!

Hum hum hum!

2011

2011-01-12T16:55:00.001+08:00

It should be a happy new year. But will it be?

2 cents

2010-11-03T13:00:00.002+08:00

I always tell my friends - if you want something very hard and bad enough.. just have to keep thinking & really WANT it.. then one step at a time, it will come true. I forgot to add the disclaimer that being true to your soul, never be dishonest and spread as much good as you can plays a big part too.

P.S: Stuff like "Please god, let me strike that $1million toto this weekend does not apply... yet."

I'll let you guys know when it happen to me, first.

Hur hur.. -_-

Fast forward

2010-10-31T16:26:00.002+08:00

July was busy busy busy!

August was tiring, tiring tiring!

September was nerve wrecking, wrecking wrecking!

October was relief relief and relieeeeeeeeeeeeef!

November onwards - WE SHALL BE HAPPY HAPPY HAAAAAAAAAAAAPPY!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Whee..! :D

Analysis into the wealth of City Harvest Church

2010-06-24T23:22:00.008+08:00

An analysis that i found online which i thought was particularly interesting. I did not attached the video mentioned below, please google link "The 10 Laws of The Harvest" if ur interested.

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City Harvest Church(CHC) has been the talk of the town this week. Although I am aware that City Harvest is one of the richest churches in Singapore, I am still shocked that it is rich enough to pay SGD310 million for a stake in Suntec City. Nevertheless, an entity which is able to amass such wealth is certainly worth studying. I was determined to understand the secrets to the church's wealth.

Below is what I gathered.

1. Clever packaging of Sunday services

The income of a church is dependent on the tithes collected (10% of income from church-members). Therefore, the earning power of a church is highly dependent on its ability to retain its existing church members and attract new ones. The larger the church membership, the greater its earnings.

I watched a sample of CHC weekend service on its website. Compared to the boring Sunday classes I attended as a kid, CHC church service was most refreshing (Watch "The 10 Laws Of The Harvest"). The beginning part resembles a rock concert with good singing and enthusiastic audience. It is an entertaining way to enjoy your Sunday mornings. Going to church becomes a weekly event to look forward to rather than a chore to attend to.

With church services so well packaged for its customers, its customer retention rate and new customer acquisition figures should look good.

2. Extra revenue in the form of advertisements, sales of CDs.

This church is unlike the other churches I know. It generates extra revenue through advertisements during its Sunday service(watch the videos). It sells audio CDs on its website. There is an online shopping cart for convenience to those who want to buy online.

3. Efficient collection of tithes

Church-members can pay their tithe online via credit card, eNets or even Giro!! Once members started donating using Giro, the earnings quality of the church improves. Donation collected via Giro tend to be more stable.

With a globalised economy, people travel round the world a lot and may miss Sunday services. In the past, the churches will lose income when these members fail to turn up to pay their tithe. Now, with online payment, they can continue collecting the tithe even when the church-member is working overseas for an extended period of time. With Giro, the church can continue collecting tithes for a few more months even when the member leaves the church as people have a habit of forgetting what they pay on Giro.

4. 30-fold, 60-fold, 100-fold returns on your church donations

This is where the genius of CHC lies and the secret to its superior earning power. In fact, I have yet to encounter any public-listed company on SGX, HKSE, NYSE, Nasdaq that demonstrates better potential.

The pastor preaches that God will give 30-fold, 60-fold, 100-fold returns on your tithe. But, you have to be generous in your donations first so that you will receive in harvest proportions. I guess that is the origin of the name City Harvest. Please watch the video "The 10 Laws Of The Harvest" yourself in its entirety and interpret for yourself.

It is a message that cleverly uses an astute understanding of human nature to maximize profits. If I were a CHC member, I will be tempted to increase my tithe as much as possible. Not mincing my words, I am doing it out of pure greed. I do not think I will be alone.

5. Quality of customers

With the 100-fold return message, the kind of church members attracted will be most conducive to profit-making. Money-minded people will be attracted to the church. These money-minded people tend to be ambitious and have a great desire to make lots of money. Millionaire minds have a higher chance to become rich. Hence, the quality of customers that CHC attracts are of the highest quality. The richer the church-member, the higher is the church's tithe per member.
Customer quality will be enhanced through the passage of time due to survivor bias. Suppose out of this pool of Millionaire-Mind Christians, 50% become satisfactorily rich and the remaining 50% still unsatisfactorily middle-class.

The 50% who got rich will donate even more because they think their source of wealth comes from their donations. It is most unlikely they will cut back on their tithes because they will be afraid God will punish them by cutting back the returns. If they are not afraid, the church will be there to warn them not to do so. The remaining 50% who did not get rich will be disillusioned and probably leave the church. The loss is of little significance to the church. These people are not rich and their tithes will not amount to much.

Many Christians will be disgusted with the concept of using tithes to get rich. These people will probably leave the church after attending a few Sunday services. Again, the loss is of little significance to CHC. These people will not be highly profitable to the church even if they are rich because they are not going to tithe as much as the others who believe their tithes is the way to wealth.

To the credit of the Pastor, I think he has devised a wonderful process of filtering out non-profitable customers and sucking in the lucrative ones. There is only so much physical space that a church can have to service its church-members. To maximize profits, the church has to ensure that each unit of space is used for servicing lucrative customers.

6. Kill off competition

CHC has tremendous economic moat that kills off competition. In the video "The 10 Laws of The Harvest", the Pastor cited Law #5 "Your Seed must be planted in Good Ground" which is an effective weapon in killing off his competition - the smaller churches. Many Christians feel that they ought to donate to the needy, smaller churches rather than rich mega-churches like CHC.

The Pastor's argument is that you do not get good returns like 100-fold in the small churches. You have to donate to mega-churches to maximize returns on your tithe because they have a track record (rich church members). In other words, the seed is not planted in good ground when you donate to the small churches. In his own words, "I don't always give to the neediest but to the ground that will give the greatest yield". To illustrate his point, he used an analogy on weak banks and strong banks. You do not deposit your money in a weak bank because it desperately needs fresh funds to survive. You deposit your money in a strong bank which invests your money wisely and yields good returns.

The church has an iron-grip on its members who believe its message. As illustrated previously, its customer base is of the highest quality. This is its track record. Existing church-members will definitely not move to another smaller, needier church with poorer track record.
It has a very strong economic moat as it is very hard for its competitors to get its customers to switch over.

7. Providing a place where the rich can network

As the Pastor said, his church provides a good ground on which you can grow your riches. Rightly so, indeed. For property agents or insurance agents trying to hit their sales quota, City Harvest Church will be an ideal place to hunt for lucrative clients. This church concentrates several rich and money-minded people into a single location. The church offers a unique advantage to sell things.

In a religious setting, people tend less to be on their guard and can be more easily persuaded to part with their money. Businessmen also like to network in places where there are rich and powerful people who will come in handy in future. The Pastor has done a good job in gathering such people in his church and it makes good sense to make use of this advantage by joining the church.The rich will attract more rich and the gathering moss snowballs to provide an ever-rising pool of donation to the church.

8. Preach what people like to hear.

As a teenager, I was discouraged when I read Bible verses like Matthew 19:23-24 "I tell you the truth, it is hard for a rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven. Again I tell you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God." and Matthew 6:24 "No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and wealth."

It seems like if I become rich, I will be condemned to hell.
In the video "Rich God? Poor God?", the Pastor preaches that it is absolutely ok to be rich. Some prophets of God were very rich. (Abraham, David, Solomon)
There is nothing more musical to a money-minded person than to hear that God is on your side in your pursuit of money. The church-members who are more money-minded will love this and donate even more.

9. God pays for the returns, not the church.

The church collects the money, but God pays for the 30-fold, 60-fold, 100-fold returns. The church does not need to pay a single cent for the returns on the donations.This is as good as you do the work for me, but not only do I not pay you, I shall also collect your salary. You toil and sweat, but I shall eat your bread. God must surely be a miracle worker and people will pay handsomely for his service. I cannot think of a more advantageous economic position to be in to be able to collect money rendered by a miracle worker.

10. Social pressure to conform in church settings and ease of influence

If everyone around you donates, it is hard not to. When everyone else makes sacrifice, the one who does not will look like an outcast. There is tremendous pressure to conform in such a herd setting.

11. Tremendous future earning power

Take a look at the congregation and you will notice the large number of young people. The income growth of young people is the fastest in the population. In the Pastor's words, "You may be poor today, but you will not be poor all your life". That is a long-term business plan in cultivating its customers.

Therefore, if CHC can be viewed as a growth stock, its prospects are very bright as its young customers will accelerate its earnings.

12. Stable earnings in times of depression

Besides being a growth stock, CHC can also be viewed as a defensive and safe stock. People pray hardest when they fall in hard times. Strangely, some people have an urge to tithe when they are in financial troubles.

In fact, in the video (The 10 Laws Of The Harvest), a couple came on stage. They talked about the dire straits they were in when they started out. Things change when God challenged them to GIVE themselves out of poverty (exact words from the speaker). Despite not having any money, they still pledged $250 to the building fund. In his own words again, "we often emptied our savings to give to the House of God knowing that this will be the answer to our financial problems". Hence, not only will the church earnings be stable in times of depression, it may even grow.

13. Turning Christianity into a universal religion for mankind

The Pastor preaches Prosperity Gospel which resolves around money. His business genius lies in choosing this theme for his church. By doing so, he has turned Christianity into a universal religion for mankind. This is because everyone worships money regardless of race, culture, age, gender, sexual orientation. In a fell swoop, he has enlarged his market to cover the entire world. It is much easier to convert people to your belief by dangling money and promising great prosperity. After all, who does not love money?

By enlarging his potential market catchment with a greater chance of increasing membership, more donations will flow in.

14. Tax benefits as church is registered as a charity

This creates a huge, unfair advantage compared to all other businesses. This is what landed CHC in controversy. Enough has been said.

If one day the Pastor switches to become a businessman, I will definitely consider investing in the company that he heads and founds.

If City Harvest Church is listed on the Singapore Stock Exchange, I will certainly buy it. It will be one stock that I am confident of hitting a return of 30-fold, 60-fold, 100-fold returns.

**PS: People tend not to question critically when it comes to religion. A charming smooth talker can easily sway minds with his interpretation of the Bible. In the final analysis, Faith is about simply believing. You cannot approach it scientifically because there is no way to test religious theories using the scientific method. We will only know the real truth when judgment day comes.

The danger is that there is no accountability on the part of the preacher on whether his teachings are true or not. Even he himself cannot be sure that his interpretations is 100% correct. Given human nature, the interpretations will tend to be self-serving. In fact, it is not only dangerous to the students but to the teacher as well. People will believe their own lies if it yields tempting benefits. That was how Wall Street drank its own Kool-Aid.

While I respect the Pastor for his business savvy, I cannot agree with his interpretations of the Bible. I pray for good health, peace and harmony for my family. Money-minded as I am, I am not comfortable with commercializing my relationship with God by asking for money. The Christian God that I know from my own reading of the Bible is not 财神爷.

Of course, if God wants to drop money from heaven on me, I will be more than happy to embrace it.

Berlin calling!

2010-06-21T16:28:00.016+08:00

First time in Berlin and its summer time! So nicce. ^_^

You cant see it in here.. but the air is full of pollen almost like snowing. Itches the nose and eyes like crazy.. =(

My newly dyed hair, i wanted red but its now orange. So ah lian.. =(

No time to narrate! Till next time! Bye! ;)

OH!

2010-06-04T13:45:00.004+08:00

Oh oh!

And by the waaaaaaaaaaay.. hellooooo.. i got my driving lic already at last!! Mission accomplished!!

And also, just realised it was one of my resolutions for 2009. Ha, better late then never i say!! Yay me!! =D

Time flies!

2010-06-04T13:25:00.003+08:00

Been mad busy doing stuff and tuanging at work till i almost forgot that i have a blog. It has been a month since i update! Wah lau eh..

Annnyway, im headed for Berlin tonight and i cannot be happier. This is a much needed time out from my usual routine - wake up.work.go home.sleep.blah. And as much as i hate long haul flights, this time round it will be good. Because finally, im not travelling alone. Seb will be with me flying back to Europe. Hand in hand all fucking miserable 16 hours of it. Aaaaaah.. so romantic. ^_^

So, this time. I planned to do some shopping! Unlike the last where all i did was wandered around checking out new places. The euros are down and i cant be NOT buying AFEW things at least 'duuuuuh!???

Other then that, its the wedding im looking forward to! I wonder how angmoh weddings are like. This is my first actually! I hope they dont think that im a singaporean lian with my newly dyed orangey brown hair (which i hate!). Well, whatever. Dont think the highlight is on me anyway since im not the bride, heehee.

Be back on 15th June. Toodles! =D

Tuesday blues

2010-04-17T17:28:00.002+08:00

Another day at work. =(

Stagnant

2010-04-14T01:11:00.006+08:00

Seb in Seoul only back in weekend.

Waterbank, Marina Bay Suites, Vermont and Goodwood Residences launching by end of April. Which means no-off-days are here again bloody goddamnit.

Seb leaves on 24 again for Munich.

Me going for my practical lessons like a maniac end of April.

What else is there to look forward besides all these?? Havent even taken any holiday or leave this year... stuck in a rut.. my life sucks =(

Selina's nite

2010-04-02T16:01:00.005+08:00

With the usual crew.

CNY's on 14th Feb

2010-03-06T14:25:00.008+08:00

Its Chinese New Year again! =D This year it falls on 14th Feb, which happens to be V-day. I read somewhere that this only happen every 57 years!

Anyway, a belated gong xi fa chai to yall!

Seb's lunch =DDD

Wild spiky sea cucumber with shark fin! Pot price $800+++ and he thinks its funky.. =/

He calls it "The Sticky Soup". =/

You dunno whats good for you sweetheart.. learn to love it k. ^_^

I love Lucas! The laughing baby!

Lo-hei

Ang moh also lo-hei??

Cutie

Imma eat your little chubby legs.

And then it was V-day's dinner.

Which was a ripped-off.

But my cute cute one is so sweet, he doesnt mind being ripped-off for today. Haaaaaii.... ^_^

New year new beginnings

2010-03-02T14:13:00.005+08:00

Been so busy lately =/

But its all worth it as Seb has finally found an apartment! Yay! Hopefully we can move in by this weekend! Imma decorate it all like princesssy pink like xiaxue and have everyone eyeball me like a spg while swimming by the pool. Cant wait! =D

Btw, Chinese New Year went by like a bolt of lightning this year. Cant believe its finally 2010. There's so much changes that im going to make this year. Like BIG ones. HUMONGOUS ones. Heehee.. so excited just thinking about it.

Will update on CNY/Weddingssss (wah lau eh) celebrations soon!

Barcelona Finale

2010-02-08T17:08:00.008+08:00

Last day hanging around at the city centre of Barcelona... =(

Set off in search of the famous Boqueria Market.

Maybe its winter, doesnt smell as bad when you're in the meat or fishy sections.

Candies Galore!!!

Stores after stores selling all kinds of sweets. Me likes. ^_^

Time to head back to Ausburg!

So many baggages for a 1 day trip. =(

Christmas market at Augsburg. They all look the same after awhile. =D

*shake shake*

Seb's dad giving me a cultural lecture while his mum and bro chatted on. ^_^

Speck Und Kraut. Favourite! Gives me the farty though.

We headed back after abit - to Nuremberg.

How come so cute one!? =D

Seb is now in Singapore! Yay! =D

Sebastian

2010-01-28T16:08:00.000+08:00

3rd of February!

Hurry up lah! =D

Flamingos

2010-01-11T19:00:00.001+08:00

Just jog passed this house with at least 6 flamingos and 12 parrots in it! Wow! :d

Barcelona 3

2010-01-10T16:12:00.006+08:00

Think no one plays here anymore? Its located on a mountaintop, must have been a great place to hold the Oympics over here back in 1992 though =)

wat.. german team lost?!?!

Bull fighting ring... whooo...

We pass by the FC Barcelona Stadium and just so happen the team was playing! Sadly, the closest we could catch was.. their bus.. =)

Flocked by fans & paparazzis!

Casa Balto during the day

Our last day at Barcelona

Ang moh food everyday.. =/

To be continued...

Xmas at Genting

2010-01-02T11:07:00.031+08:00

After 20 long years, its Genting Highlands again.

Never in my wildest dream would i have thought this would be one of my "holiday" destinations. I guess beggars cant be choosers during super-peak holiday seasons. We paid S$400 for a fucking shitty room at First World Hotel cos we were so smart we just had to leave Spore during Xmas Eve. =(

Speaking of which, the hotel is the worst place ive ever stayed. Its practically like a refugee boot camp. Thousands of people were checking in on xmas eve itself, bare-minium room (even chalet are much better), not a very pretty sight.

S$400!!!!!!! Grrrrrrrr.......

My travelling crew - Ritzy, Vivian & Calvin

Candice and her boyfriend joined us soon after. They were so garang to have driven up Genting themselves! So dangerous lah!

One of the best and tastiest food, the thai restaurant at Genting is simply shiok. No food pictures here cos everyone was gobbling away too fast.

.. cant believe its finally 2010... Happy New Year everyone! =)

Honesty

2009-12-29T14:15:00.005+08:00

Today i was in the bank queuing for money. So while waiting for the teller to issue me the cheque i want, a young guy walked up to the counter just beside mine.

He had just found $300 from a atm machine, apparently someone actually forgot about their money after withdrawing them. As there was a receipt on the machine too, he was able to have the money returned to the owner.

Its heartwarming to know there ARE still alot of good people around. =)

Barcelona 2

2009-12-23T00:58:00.004+08:00

Casa Mila - By Antoni Gaudi

So this is the beach of Barcelona. I wasnt so keen in coming here seeing that its winter now, not much happenings going on, not alot of people. BUT!

About 100m away on a rock formation, seb spotted something with his super-sonic-bionic eyes.

I cant see!

Seb being very perverted, shot this pic.

If you double click, save it, open it, then you ZOOM IT. LOL. You can see 2 people absolutely stark-NAKED.

Sibe siao i swear. Ive got no idea how the hell they swam over to the rocks when the water is freezing cold and there wasnt any boat in sight. They were running from left to right, naked and waving at people just standing by the beach!

Zoom this too. Even more happening then the previous one. I promise. ^_^

Ok, enough of beach fun. Back on the hop on and off bus!

Can we eat nao or wut?!

Not till i take a perfect picture sweetheart. ^_^

Casa Batllo - By Antoni Gaudi

Well, quirky. Im happy i came here at night and took a picture of this place. Definitely alot more different then the day-versions that i googled online.

Its the giant dildo again! Respect.

I like this one especially.

We were on the way up to Castle Montjuic.

You could see the whole of Barcelona from up here. Definitely a must-come!

After taking a bus up here, still have to take cable car!

Kids on school excusions.

Ooooh you my sexy toyboy Karl-Lagerfeld-young-version.

To be continue....

P.S: Im off to Genting for Christmas this year! Merry Christmas my friends!

Barcelona

2009-12-17T16:05:00.000+08:00

Thank you to my sweetie for the best present ever! ^_^

Munchen to Barcelona in 2 hours!

We were flying over italy when i spotted these amazing alps, super spectacular!

Side track, i was on Singapore airlines on my way to frankfurt (it was a night flight) when we were flying over middle east, i looked out of the window and for the first time i see thousands and millions.. goddamnit, bloody godzillion billions of starry stars in the sky. How come ah??

Have never saw it before when i was flying to any other destinations. Weird.

Ok, watevaaa!

Sagrada La Familia - One mega-massive structure of a roman catholic church, the master work of Catalan architect Antoni Gaudi. Of all the churches that ive seen in europe, this is by far one of the most breathtaking and incredible one. Unbelievably chio. The complexity of the place is mind-boggling. No wonder it has been under construction since 1882 and is not expected to be completed till 2026.

Cant understand why cousin thought nothing of it. I was blown away!

Here goes all the pictures dedicated to the genius of this place! =D

His style is primarily inspired by nature or so ive read.

Natural light blazing in from everywhere.

Regular ceiling upon entrance. Nature-inspired tree branch columns.

Apparently, everyone looks hard at work. I cant understand why it have to take another 16 years to complete this place.

Some details of the church capture and placed at the museum. Its amazing how this place is built with its intricate funky designs and especially COLOURS. Where in the world would they use mosiac-coloured tiles to built anything back in those days?!!?

GENIUS LAH!

My cutie with Gaudi.

Is this place kidding me or what? Can soooo intricate with the exterior one meh?

Seb said he will bring me back here again when its completed in 2026. Cant wait! =P

So, we trotted over to another Gaudi's work of art.

Parc Guell - under the UNESCO World Heritage Site. I saw it in movies and travel magazines all the time and i thought it was beautiful. In real, it was even better.

Musicians galore! Was surrounding the park playing beautiful tunes. Romaaaantic lah! It was "light-heartening" to be strolling around that place.

There. My priceless pic. With that mother-fucker in the way who just refused to walk away from the colonnaded celebrated pathway.

I waited and realised theres just no way i could wait for these dumb fucks to go off and leave me to take a empty, lonely but romantic pathway. So i huffed and puffed and join these dumbasses. Grrr.... >=(

Hola amigo, what are you writing? Love poems for me? =)

Abit Alice in wonderland feel in this place.

The you-got-to-take-this-frikkin-lizard-when-you're-in-barcelona photo.

Souvenirs shops selling all sorts of mosiac stuffs.

To be continued.....

Germany

2009-12-11T00:19:00.026+08:00

Touched down!

After a very excruciating 13 hours flight to frankfurt. It was FULL. What can i say.. was expecting to spread my legs on at least a 2 seater, but NO. It had to be packed! Im so damn pissed off, i hate all these fat germans that have travel to australia this time of the year and JUST HAVE to transit with Singapore Airlines. Go take your own lufthansa airline lah!

But stiffed neck, aching shoulders and a spine that nearly went haywire all disappeared the moment i touched down at frankfurt airport.

My sweetie awaiting with a big red rose...... =DDD

How come so cute one?! Heehee! ^_^

The next morning!

1st morning - i look so tired =(

Nuremberg - where seb is right now.

One of the biggest Christmas Market in Germany is at Nuremberg. Such ambience! But its not fully open. On the later part of my blog, i will show the "fully open" one! =D

How come so cute one?!

First lunch @ 4pm - staaarving!

It aint opened yet folks!

waaaaaait.......

What a romantic river... with ducks in it too.

Seb lives about a 10min walk away from here.

Had i have won the 3million euros lotto - 'imma quit my job man goddamnit!

Alas... its not my time yet, but someday.... someday........

Train station with UFO-lookalike-flying-saucer-disc.

Uh... almost 3-dimensional leh when view in real!

Cant stand these redder then red glossy tomatoes. Makes all our tomatoes in Singapore looks rotten, even the meidi-ya ones.

Not sure what are these, but i like.

Day 2 and we were on the way to the airport again.

HOLA BARCELONAAAAAAAAA!

P.S: Was using the pin-hole mode on the last 2 pic. I think it made us look kinda pale and sick. You think? =(

To be continued.....

Post-flight... ugh

2009-12-01T00:30:00.002+08:00

*yawn*.. landed abit ago.

Have the heaty feeling, better drink more water.. =(

Pics will be up by this weekend! I hope! =D

Jingle bells trip

2009-11-17T16:53:00.008+08:00

Im 60% packed!

Its tuesday and im leaving this friday. Cant believe my leave STILL hasnt been approved. Anyway, im going and thats that. Pui.

Sometimes, i really wonder if its worth it at moments like these, working for a company with absolutely NO REGARD for a employee's well-being vs dynamic environment, really fucking great colleagues & boss (when he approves my leaves hahahha) and (uh-hum) decent salary. This has been going on for 5 years.. long working hours (14hrs straight for days, no off days for weeks) it can get pretty sickening after awhile.

How am i ever going to find that perfect work & life balance that im always dreaming about? Or does it even exists?

Siggggh....

WATEVAAAAAA!

The biggest & bestest Christmas market awaits me at Germany! And cant wait to check out the brilliance of Gaudi's @ Barcelona! YOWWW!!! =DDD

Happy Birthday Seb

2009-11-13T12:34:00.009+08:00

I know you're happy its your day!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY sweetie! =D

P.S: My all time favourite pic.

BakeInn

2009-11-07T14:30:00.004+08:00

Mum: You have to put your hand IN to feel the texture of the mixture and make sure everything is dissolved!!! (she insisted, and even ask me to check with the cuz)

Me: ......... (in great disbelief, but still obliged)

I am so fucking gross. My mum forced me.

Sebby, would you still eat my cake? =D

PERFECT SPONGE CAKE GLISTERING WITH STARDUST! =D

Double click on cake image to see close-up shot. WOW!

Look like kuey. But it was infact Bakerzinn-worthy sponge cake.

Cant believe this can be easily done on a first try.

Completed in 2.5hrs!

Shanghai Night

2009-10-25T14:20:00.004+08:00

ITS OUR ANNUAL DINNER & DANCE! =D

This time the theme was Shanghai Glamour and the venue couldnt be more appropriate - Lunar at Clarke Quay. Very ching chong!

Overall, it was an ok night. I stayed on till almost 2am mainly becos of my awesome & fun colleagues but also becos im super greedy for anything FREE. 50 prizes to be exact, got given away. I really hated it when i cant even manage to win a fucking pen (not that i need it). But thats the story of my life. I never win any prizes EVER.

But whatever.

I based my life on other people's happiness at times too. That night i witness people got drunk, got crazy and of course... scandalous. >=) Its all too funny when they call me up/saw me the very next day and tried to explain things to me. Buahahahaha! Who am i to judge?

My cool fatty gangsta Boss.

Adeline the newcomer to CBRE!

So many maoist statues everywhere these days. I really dont know whats the deal with him.

Uhhh... Chairman of Asia Pacific Region. =D

Hahaha.. not sure if i can post this up or not! Watevaaa!

With Mr Best Dressed aka. Mr Spontaneous. Everyone went according to theme trying to be old glamour, but he came as exactly the opposite. =)

Prostitutes getting glum & pissed - why no business.

Eeeeee...

Tension

2009-10-22T00:44:00.004+08:00

Just bought some bling heels.. getting ready for the company's dinner tomorrow.

Crossing fingers hoping my cheongsam turns out good when i collect it tmr noon. Ughh!

I so hate last minute shit.

Heli

2009-10-20T16:53:00.001+08:00

Fun time at work

random

2009-10-14T00:22:00.011+08:00

cant believe im doing this.... @ Bukit Timah Nature Reserve

6-ish in the am @ bkk.

happy when he gets to swim... ^_^

In process...

Orchard Ion - me likes!

=(

2009-10-06T16:46:00.000+08:00

ALREADY GOT MY TICKET AND BOSS HAVE TO SEND OUT EMAIL SAYING - NO LEAVE TILL END OF DECEMBER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

MY LIFE SUCKS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

*sob sob*.... miserable...

Rant

2009-09-13T12:13:00.017+08:00

Today is just a super boring day. Sitting here gazing at the Marina Keppel Bay, working on a Sunday doesnt help my esteem at all. =( I cant even explain how much i dislike this place. Everytime im here, i just feel so tense, empty, tired, uptight and glaring. I just want to complain about everything in the world!!!

Why do i have to work on weekends when stupid couples can stroll down to the Marina Keppel yacht club into their mega luxurious yacht? Why?

Why is it so glaring over here? Im turning blind!

Why are residents staying just beside us (The Caribbean) seems so happy and worry-less while i am just mere metres away feeling all frowny with so much tension?!

Why are they just fishing infront of me when i have to work? Tamade.

Why are there stupid people walking into my showflat asking why the project that im selling is so expensve! As if they dont already know all central location waterfront facing properties in Singapore fetched premiums! Ignorant peasants. Why?!?!?

Why is that cute guy walking hand-in-hand with this fugly girl at Reflections. This is really sad. =(

Why didnt i think that Carribbean is a great project earlier?

Why cant i go play at Sentosa now? Its just right infront of me!

Why is the disparity in everything so painful everytime im here.

I should really post some pictures of this stupid place that im in most of the time. Or im probably jealous that i cant be living in this area, but instead i have to work here. =(

Hope my pms is over soon.

Sirocco Bangkok

2009-09-07T16:27:00.023+08:00

Ive been wanting to visit Sirocco since forever.

Seb have been planning for the past couple weeks even before we got to Bangkok. Im so happy!

At last....... =D

Fwah! I am definitely in Paris!

But the thing is, i have yet to figure out how to take human shots at night. The colour just doesnt look flattering. Quite blur and dark. But daytime or evening, its nice! Still checking out what mode i should use... mmm...

Also, i refused to use the flash, cos if i did.. the background lights cant be seen at all. Doing an injustice to the beauty of this place.

Sian. =(

We had lobster bisque, salmon and wagyu beef for dinner!

Thank you for the great dinner sweetie!!! =DDD

The African-american lady in red on the stage is from Michigan - serenading the guests with jazz songs. Nice!

Can so nice not?!?!

Rooftop restuarants are the best! The higher the better. I have to say the dining experience is unlike others.. everything seems surreal and so special. I cant wait for our very own to open up come next year on the 50th floor. Make us proud Marina Bay Sands!

After a couple hours, it got alittle too humid. Janice said it was breezy the night before, how come no wind for us one? =(

We retire early for the night!

Back to our chio suite with a crazy view. =D

3903

ZZZzzzzzz.......

Bangkok

2009-09-01T13:02:00.037+08:00

After a looooong ride from the airport, we finally reached our gorgeous hotel.

With Janice & Adrian

We went over to MBK immediately!

Check out my new camera strutting its magic... wah raaau.. =D

Can you feel the MBK heartbeat?

Anyway, it was a long day just familarising with this dirty city that alot of people love. Ive been here a couple of times, but becos i didnt like it that much, memories of where was what was just like being here on the first time again. ^_^

Seb and i were just going through the various malls at Siam and taking it easy at quaint little cafeteria inside the Paragon. Its bewildering to feel the income disparity while we're here. Big mega malls/luxurious apartments oppose shanty slums.

Where did all the tourism bucks go to???

Ok not going to get all humanitarian here.

WE HEAD TO CHAO PRAYA!!!!

Isnt it funny that we're doing all this touristy stuff at BKK.. people usually head for the food, the spa, the massages/manicure/pedcure and of course, the cheap cheap cheap shopping! Im mildly amused at myself.

We proceeded to take the longtail boat that promise us the "Old Rustic Bangkok". We were so excited about the ride initially until the brown filthy water of the river starts splashing on our face as it moves. =(

The twins aint pleased and put on a weak smile. =D

I think Seb was happy. ^_^

We must have passed through thousands of these floating slums during our 1 hour ride.

During the end of our trip, we even saw a crocodile trying to climb into one of these houses. =(

Women rowing over trying to get us buy stuff from her. From cheap miniatures toys, souveneirs to ice-cold thai beer.

We finally arrived at the Grand Palace after a very humbling ride.

Standing just outside the temple of the "Reclining Buddha".

I didnt know what this little black steel bowls were for, but reckon it must be for wishes! =D So i mumbled along as i place un-seen-before-thai pennies in it.

(Please please let my wishes all come true..............)

We muck around alittle more at the area, but the sun was getting too much for us to take. Decided to head back to Siam.

P.S: Got to love the taxis in BKK for playing awesome techno-thai music!

Welcome back

2009-08-26T00:38:00.013+08:00

Im so happy when you're around.... ^_^

Sowwie for making you wait for me get off work on your holiday.. you know i appreciate it right~~

I compensate! Whisk you off to exotico Bangkok!

P.S: Bangkok is super-duper exotic to a european.. snooze to us singaporeans, or at least me. But i still do it! =D

Being very kia-see, i brought mask on flight. Even made The Twins wore it. Sibe obiang, apparently, no one gives a damn. =(

Im sleepy and paranoid. Its a 7am flight afterall.

We proceed to Siam Paragon upon touchdown.

U know.. totally sidetrack.

My new Panasonic Lumix LX 3 camera that takes outrageous pictures. Its a old model i know.. a poor man's version of a Leica 4, but fuck.. the photos of my bkk trip is awesome!! Janice couldnt stop cursing me (and my darling lumix). I actually felt so good.

Its nice to at last have a good decent camera, especially when you're going on trips. Got stuck with my shitty Canon for the longest time. Oh oh.. and how could i not mention!!!

THANKS TO ALL MY WONDERFUL COLLEAGUES FOR GIVING ME THIS FANTASTICO GIFT, LOVE IT MAX!!!!! Even though most of you dont have the link to my blog cos im so secretive, muahahahha, but still I LOVE LOVE LUUUUUUUUUUUURVE THIS LUMIX.. LIKE FUCKING LUUUURVE.......

... ok, you get it. ^_^

Aiyaaa, cant continue with this blog post anymore just realised all my pics are too big and need to be resized. Lazy.

To be continue....

P.S: Alison, talk to you next week, very busy now. Bye!

Faster leh...

2009-07-22T16:43:00.000+08:00

14th August, hurry up!!

Rainbow & Fireworks

2009-07-11T20:51:00.013+08:00

Today is a good day. For the first time in my life, i saw a FULL rainbow.. cos usually im standing on the ground-level when i catch a rainbow, so maximum i see is a quarter rainbow, today cos i was on the 38th floor, it was a full rainbow spanning from left to right leh. Wah lau!

And it was a hazy day. Still pretty lah.. but it gets better...

FIRE WORKS!!!

Amidst the spectacular backdrop of our business district.

Guess it must be someone on top that is cheering me up for being so hardworking lately.

Im happy! ^_^

Suggestive Ad

2009-07-09T14:18:00.003+08:00

Material Lazy Girl

2009-06-24T16:08:00.006+08:00

Looking through pictures of structured bodies upset the hell out of me. As if not having the desired cup-size not depressing enough, god have to bless me with a jiggly-fibbly belly that seems almost impossible to eliminate of.

I tried diets! I tried eating much much less!

Fish soup for one straight month!

Tennis and sports regularly for 2 months!

Well, i lose a pretty good amount of weight when i do all that.. like 3kgs - maximum, nothing more. But even though looking significantly slimmer, the belly still outlives everything else. Sad... how can i finally attained my dream abs..... meow* =(

Side track:

Ferragamo fucking shoes sucks. I thought by owning one would be like walking on marshmallows.. but how wrong can i get! Nbcb. Ive worn it for more then a month and it still bites my feet like it doesnt give a damn.

Disclaimer: (i might look innocent & dainty.. but I SURE CAN BITE YOUR TOES OFF! MUAHAHAHHAHAHA!!!! >=D)

BITE YOU !

Will never believe in them again. =(

Second year

2009-06-23T14:33:00.005+08:00

Sebby sent this to me last tuesday for our 2nd year anniversary.. =DDD

I was already so happy to get this. And then he have to add that it is not all and that he have something else he wants to give to me personally when he is here on August.

Just you being here is enough sweetie! ^_^

Cant believe how time flies...............

Pussycat Dolls

2009-06-12T22:50:00.015+08:00

Its been awhile since i've been to a concert, if not for the free tixs. I'll definitely pass. Im not a big fan of the PCD.. i mean, why should i pay $128 to go watch all these girls with washboard abs and D-cup boobs? Implant boobs!! Duuuuhh?!???

Though i hum pretty often to their tunes - 'cos its catchy yea! =P

Nicole Scherzinger bends down, with red bustier.

Nicole Scherzinger in red checkered pants.

I was just thinking.. this whole PCD thing is really about Nicole Scherzinger. The other watstheirname girls are just backup dancers/sound effects members. Nicole gets all the good deals, the endorsements (rem the cheesy CLEAR shampoo ad?!), the best outfits, the exposure and how can i not say, THE MEN (Lewis Hamilton, yes that filthy rich shortie).

Which makes me wonder... would i want fame so much that i would be someone else's backup whatever? Would you?

Just imagine one the PCD girls (not Nicole) walks up to you and tell you she's from the Pussycat dolls ... u can recognise meh??

Slap her face and tell her to stop lying man!

Sitting just behind the controls.. look far from here, but its not. Our seats cost $128 leh, second most expensive. Those ppl standing infront paid $148, and they have to stand the whole night.. muahahahha!

Bare as my ass stage. No props or whatever. Only that giant LCD screen.Whole concert only change 2 outfits... i feel so cheated (of my time mah!).. what happen to eye candy?!?

There wasnt even any fireworks/party pooper popping out at the end of the show!

Seriously low budget!

The stadium was about 80% filled i would say.

Overall, it was an ok gig. There wasnt much interaction of the singers with the audience, sometimes you just get the feeling that they're trying to get it over and done with.

Angmoh concert is just a waste of money lah please. I said this 5 years ago, i say it again now.

Welcome onboard!

2009-06-05T16:37:00.024+08:00

S and R were nice to invite us onto their yacht over a very lazy last weekend. We worked our asses off so late most of the days last week and this was quite a breath of fresh air - literally.

Cant remember how many footer was this beauty, but i would say around 60 feet.

Mum and dad cooked some food while we play on.. =P

Snap-happy while they're cooking! Sorry folks, kids dont help in the kitchen! ^_^

The highlight was seriously NOT the 60-footer 3 bedroom luxury yacht.

It was this dingy below that i was about to board.

Barely 2.5 metres in length and 6 of us squeezed onto it! I was so positive that we're overloaded and that we're gona sink at some point. WE'RE ALL NOT SLIM, FUCK!

Sometimes we all do things when we ALREADY know something bad is going to come out of it. So rebellious. =D

Our so-scare-about-to-shit-face. The men were sitting near the engine and their bums were already almost touching the water. The boat was almost going diagonal leh wah lau!

Cruising around looking at the condominiums at Sentosa Cove. Most of which i was involved in selling 3 years ago... man... time flies! Everything is almost up over there now. Beautiful!

We head back after a very nerve-wrecking 20mins.

S enjoys being the prostitute.

Woooo... yacht models wannabes! Nice rear though!

Thank you guys! We had a good time! =D

Malaysian Government for you

2009-06-02T14:32:00.008+08:00

JAKARTA (AFP) - - A teenage US-Indonesian model has returned to her family in Indonesia with tales of abuse, rape and torture at the hands of a Malaysian prince, after her dramatic escape with the help of Singapore police.

Manohara Odelia Pinot, 17, told reporters she was treated like a sex slave after her marriage last year to Tengku Temenggong Mohammad Fakhry, the prince of Malaysia's Kelantan state.
Her mother, Daisy Fajarina, said she would press charges against the 31-year-old prince, and blamed the Malaysian and Indonesian governments for trying to cover up the alleged abuse.

"The things I've been afraid of were revealed to be true. Manohara has suffered physical abuse. She's got several razor cuts on her chest," Fajarina told AFP on Monday.

"No parent could be silent if their child was treated in such a barbaric way."

The Malaysian government had ignored her pleas for access to her daughter and had blocked her from entering the country, she said, while the Indonesian embassy had said that Manohara was fine with her new husband.

But the young woman -- a well-known socialite in Jakarta -- said her life at the royal palace involved a "daily routine" of rape, abuse, torture and occasional drug injections that made her vomit blood.

She said she was usually held under guard in her bedroom at the palace and was injected with tranquilisers whenever she complained.

"I am still traumatised by all that happened and it has left an impact on me," she told reporters in Jakarta on Sunday, after escaping the royal family during a trip to Singapore over the weekend.

"Sexual abuse and sexual harassment were like a daily routine for me, and he did that every time I did not want to have sexual intercourse," she was quoted as saying in The Jakarta Globe.

"I could never think a normal man could do such things," she said, adding: "Some parts of my body were cut by a razor."

"I've been treated like an animal. I'm like his property and I was in his room and whenever he wants to play with me he just goes into the room and plays with me. I'm like an object."

The teenager -- whose fairy-tale wedding to a prince captured the imagination of Indonesia -- said she would be tortured if she did not appear to be happy when she attended social functions with Fakhry.

She said she secretly called Singaporean police and pleaded for help after the royal family took her to Singapore when they accompanied Fakhry's father, Sultan Ismail Petra Shah II, for medical treatment.

"The police told Fakhry that he would be held in jail if he did not let me go. No one could force me against my will in Singapore and I knew I had a chance to escape," she said.

The model once voted as being among Indonesia's "100 Precious Women" said she escaped her guards by pushing the Singapore hotel elevator's emergency button.

They were reluctant to chase her because they knew the scene would be captured on security cameras.

She blasted the Indonesian embassy in Malaysia, saying: "They made it worse by telling lies, saying that I was fine while I was suffering in Kelantan." A spokesman for the Indonesian foreign ministry insisted the embassy had done everything it could to help Manohara and said the government would assist her if she wanted to file charges against her husband.

But Malaysian Deputy Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin said the government would not investigate the allegations. (Duh?!?! Would not investigate at all?!!?)

"I think this is more of a personal matter. To date we have not been dragged into it, so we want to leave it as it is," he told reporters in Kuala Lumpur. (Sexually AND physically abused and injected with drugs is a personal matter?!?! And i thought its a Islamic state with Islamic rulings?!?!)

I AM SO IGNORANT! =p

Malaysia's royal rulers used to enjoy immunity from criminal and civil charges but the privilege was removed in 1993.

There has been no comment from the Kelantan royal family.

Manohara's lawyer, Yuri Darmas, said she would have a medical examination to back up her allegations of abuse.

"We need one to two days to gather evidence before we file a lawsuit to the Malaysian police," he said, adding that he intended to pursue criminal and civil lawsuits against the prince.

Manohara has already filed for divorce, her mother said.

*******************************************************

Now at this age of time, for something like this to happen is super disgusting. Even more disheartened when its so close to us. Its no wonder a country with such leadership can never progress and move forward.

^_^

Cityview

2009-05-31T00:10:00.005+08:00

Please hear me..

2009-05-26T15:26:00.013+08:00

"I wish i may, i wish i might, have the wish i wish tonight...."

I could not have wanted something as badly as i want this. It has been awhile... let it come true!!!

Little Lucas

2009-05-17T22:48:00.003+08:00

My cousin Bryan's youngest baby, Lucas.

The cutest little thing i have seen in awhile.

Rider's Cafe

2009-05-16T12:11:00.013+08:00

Its rare that the 3 of us had time off from work.. we decided to get out of the city and be in touch with nature alittle bit, even though the day was a tad hot... i really dread the heat.

Within minutes upon arriving, this cow-print pony came trotting along like a dream. My camera sucks and this was the nearest i could get and it SIMPLY doesnt do any justice to the most cutest pony i have ever lay my eyes on.

It has a distinctive white mane and its tail......... wah lau, the tail is like my little pony looong fluffy style lor. Im pretty sure it looks something like this. Except its in COW PRINT!!! ^_^

I wanted to walk nearer to take a picture of it... but like all awesome-mystical creatures, it disappeared into thin air just when i make a route for it.. =(

Sua! We eat!

Calvin & Ritzy.. looking like a couple here =P

Yummy calamaris...

Oooooooo horsey... i love you, you love me!!!!!!

My off day.....

SG Beerfest 2009

2009-05-04T01:42:00.005+08:00

Missed out on last year Beer Fest @ Fort Canning cos was just too distracted as my cute cute sebby was in town. Thought it would be the same this year until i received a text late last evening! Yay, free entry from Annie - bro's friend had a beer booth there and she's so nice to invite me!

I hopped happily to the sg flyer as friends awaits..... =D~

Seriously, i have never been a fan of live bands. But being human.. i still swayed to the rock-and-rolla ambience. =D

D gets intruding as night falls... i like!! ^_^

Wow im impressed... are you thinking what im thinking? =D

If i could rem right, after this slingy.. i couldnt walk straight. So lousy. =(

Oops, the booth of Annie & Harry. Pretty exotic light beer from Istanbul

Mexicano beer! Yuks! I still drink! =D

Crowd goes wild as band about to leave.. i was pretty pleased as thats when trance starts! Yow yow!

My kind of beer - Flying Dog from USA.

**************************************************

Cheers!

Sugo-i

2009-04-24T21:38:00.011+08:00

Was just looking through some pictures on my folder.. its hard to ignore these creampies, they look too delicious - have.to.share. =D

They said its easy to put on weight in Hong Kong. Pui. Try Tokyo you countryheads! =P

Cant wait to stuff my face on ya'll...........

Work are like men

2009-04-20T18:23:00.004+08:00

You cant do with them, and you cant do without them. Nabe, sibe hate it.

Couple months back, i was so worried about being retrenched cos there wasnt much work to be done. But fast forward 4mths later..... i am so fucking busy my leave for July is still pending, and my gut feel is telling me it might just get REJECTED... *sob*.. where got like that one!?!? I wana go Euroooope!!!

Blah. =(

BFFs??

2009-04-11T14:41:00.009+08:00

Funny how i could relate so clearly to what this article is all about.
----------------------------------------------------------

Toxic/unhealthy friendships are those that are unfulfilling, unrewarding and often unequal.

Toxic friends can stress you out, use you and wear you down physically and mentally. Yet, many of us keep toxic friends in our lives for whatever reasons. We like our toxic friends and we dislike them at the same time. We put up with all they have to dish out over and over again. We complain to ourselves, other friends, relatives and whomever else will listen to us gripe about how our toxic friends do this and that to us.

But in many cases, what do we do about it? Absolutely nothing, and doing nothing becomes a bigger problem than the toxic friend. Why? because many of us don't tell our friend that their behavior causes us to feel a certain way. So as a result, our negative feelings and emotions toward that friend continue to build up and before long we find ourselves exhibiting the characterstics of a toxic friend. We become the great pretenders (the phonies) and act as if nothing is wrong; hoping our friend will "change" or "get it together". Which in most instances they won't because they don't know how to or they just don't want to.

Then there are those of us who find ways to let our toxic friends know exactly how their behavior makes us feel; unfortunately each and every time you mention it your friend she seems to have a hearing and/or comprehension problem. Or better yet, she tries to turn the tables on you and tell you, you're the one with the problem. Either way, if your friend turns on a deaf ear when you try to tell her that you're tired of the way she treats you, then you might want to ask yourself some serious questions in regards to the friendship, for example:

Is there reciprocity in the friendship?
Is there truth and honesty in my friendship?
Is there a mutual respect for one another?
Is my friend loyal to me and I to her?
Can I freely express my true feelings about the friendship?
Does my friend criticize and belittle me?
Does my friend abuse the friendship and take advantage of me?

The list of questions can go on and on but if the answers are mostly negative, you might want to re-evaluate your friendship.

You see, my former toxic friend had no intentions of ending the friendship because she reaped all the benefits from it until I decided that enough was enough for me. Initially, she would not even acknowledge her negative/unhealthy behaviors, and when she finally did she would often say to me "that's just who I am". She had absolutely no intentions of changing who she was. She wanted me to accept her as she was and continue to cater to her needs while she continued to use me and betray my trust. She expected me to remain her friend at the expense of my own mental health. I had already done that for much to long.

I had been through the reasoning and compromising phase with my former friend many times, but all that did for me was to prolong the inevitable which was the complete dissolution of the friendship. My former toxic friend wanted to keep me as her friend regardless of how unhappy I was. She made many attempts to hold onto the friendship which was of course quite disturbing and challenging for me.

And although I took the bold step of confronting her many times about her behaviors and how they had such a negative impact on the relationships with her "friends"( especially our friendship), I knew she wasn't going to change. I knew in my heart that I had accepted her for who she was for much to long because it taken a great emotional toll on me. I realized that yes, I had to continue to accept her as she was but I no longer had to allow her in my personal space.

She no longer had to be a part of my life. She could be who she was as long as it did not have an impact on any aspect of my life. So ultimately, I made the painful decision to walk away from the friendship. I had to detox her from my life. I had to change my behavior, my way of thinking and responding to my former toxic friend. I literally had to act as if she did not exist. I had to rediscover who I was.

My former toxic friend had used me for her own personal gain for the duration of the friendship. I should have walked away a week after I met her because that's how soon she started to use me but we developed a very close bond immediately; were we inseparable. So I justified her negative & unhealthy behaviors by reminding myself that she was "such a nice person". I realized much later that being excessively nice to people was how she hooked her victims.

Sometime during the friendship, I also learned that I was not her first victim, I was just the latest. You see, my former toxic friend had a history of making a new friend almost every year. Unfortunately, those friends got fed up with her and eventually they became her acquaintances as opposed to the close friend as she once referred to them all. My former friend told me that those once close friends had all backed away from her. I could clearly understand why. I should have done the same. She would always say to me that I was the one who stayed around the longest and "put up with her". In reality, I was suppose to walk away a year after I met her just like the others had done, because that's how often she changed close friends.

At any rate, being what I thought was a "good friend" I put up with her nonsense for such a long time because she "needed" my help with a lot of things in her life. Based on her past, I knew she needed a good supportive friend and that is what I thought I was to her. It was one of the biggest mistakes I could have ever made in terms of my friendship with her. Unfortunately for me, it wasn't until a fews year after I discovered the betrayal that I was wise enough to walk away for good. I could no longer endure anymore emotional pain and suffering caused by someone who had continued to betray and use me in the way that she had. So I walked away and stayed away.

Afterall, that's who she was.

Need

2009-03-26T00:16:00.004+08:00

I.... need...... a....... holi..... day.............

SO BADLY LAH!! pui...

*glooms*

Concourse Skyline

2009-03-17T16:19:00.017+08:00

Another day at work.

$ Million $ dollar apartment

$ Million $ dollar view - 1bedroom

When will all these be mine??

Hairy issues

2009-03-07T11:44:00.005+08:00

I have permed hair again.

My luck changes for the better whenever i have curls.

I cant wash my hair for 3 days.

Its oily.

And it stinks.

^_^

Sebby

2009-03-02T16:27:00.001+08:00

Good luck for laters sweetie! ^_^

And i miss you, come and play with me soon.

Blues

2009-03-01T12:35:00.002+08:00

I went to Renae the other day for Tarot.. after seeing the Lebanese pyschic couple weeks ago. And im contemplating on going for my usual fortune-teller now.

My mum thinks im nuts.

Seb just smile endearingly at me.

My friends are mostly curious skeptics.

Something about the unknown future that draws troubled minds like mine to people like these. Hoping for an advice or an answer - tell us the future! But most of the time even when i get it, im still not satisfied.. cos its still unknown.

What irony. I paid so much and i still end up feeling the same.

Unsettled. =(

My Angmoh Breakfast

2009-02-20T14:40:00.005+08:00

A breakfast that is too heavy.

And what im having these days. =(

My Valentine

2009-02-17T14:48:00.000+08:00

From my cute cute Sebby! ^_^

Sebby sent this to me aaaaaaaaaaaaaallllllllllllllll the way from Germany! I love it love it love it makes me sooo happy! You sooo sweetiepiehoneybunches! =DDD

U'see, this is the RIGHT REASON to celebrate Valentine's!

You send your love.. cos you're separated by distance and there's really nothing more you can do. And despite oceans and seas... rivers and lakes... canels and drains.. billions of miles away! THE ONE still wants to let you know he cares and wants you to feel special.

You think couples that are already physically together, probably does the mundane weekend outings all year round and on days like VALENTINE'S, THEN the stupid guy decides to go all out to please the stupid girl by making a whole drama out of it just becos EVERYONE elses is doing it - is normal?! And they're most probably not christian too. So stupid.

Fake Staged Love!

Heehee! =D

Commercial Ripoff Day!

2009-02-11T22:16:00.010+08:00

I hate Valentine's Day.

I mean wats the deal with this day other then many donkey years ago, some dude decided to pledge his undying love to his significant other. Is this my problem? Or yours?

Some pre-Valentine's day irks that you're bound to see, love-shape confectionary of sorts appearing out of nowhere, EVERYWHERE. Spinelli's have the Jam Heart Tarts, supposedly making you float as you walk for 5bucks. Sugar Lips biscuits, for kisses as sweet as icing. Duh? Every mall that you walk in to, heart shape confetti/balloons/useless soft fluffy stuff greets you at every turn. Hungry and want to eat? Sure, head into any restaurants near you and there'll be a Valentine's Day special, they dont even care if you're dining with the same sex!

Did i even mention the exorbitant prices that you have to pay, cos for this special day.. one have to go for the works! And im talking flowers, chocolates, dinner, PRESENTS = for this day only, everything cost normal price x 5, thank you very much. Roses at $2-$3 per stalk can go up to $15 per stalk excluding wrapping or delivering. Silly soft toys that are bought at speciality stores together with heart-shaped chocolates can easily cost up to $100 when normally its not even over $50.

My friend Michelle puts it the funniest, she's happily attached with a guy we call D. She laments about how people goes totally wacky on this day alone, walk along streets you see boy carrying handbags for their girlfriend, usually with flowers in tow (sometimes a soft toy in the middle) or with a big helium-infused balloon that screams I LOVE YOU.. in bold, no less. Girl usually walks with awkward strut, frozen smile from ear to ear and most of the time they look like Garfields. Also, they need to check others out too while they're at it to see if WE KNOW... how much her boyfriend 'loves' her.

These clowns come in droves by the way. And ONLY on 14 Feb. Every year.

If Sebastian were to treat me shitty the whole year round and only on Valentine's Day am i given the Queen's treatment, he can talk to my hand. But he is too sweet and the bestest that everytime im with him... i just... i just feel like a little marshmallow dipped in smooth expensive chocolate... heehee.

Humbug or not, you be the judge. I prefer to be loved whole year round. ^_^

Hope

2009-02-06T15:05:00.003+08:00

$$$ 10 million $$$ lottery tonight!

Did you buy it already?

I did! And so did Sebastian! =D

If we win it and we can be soooo TOGETHER! Muerhahahahhaha!

Reunion of the CNY

2009-01-25T15:52:00.006+08:00

I have always enjoy the Lunar New Year. A time for togetherness with people that matters. A reunion.

Eons ago, it was seriously about the red packets that got me excited.. but as one aged (dirty word).. its really about family being healthy and happy together. Speaking of which, being able to even get together is no easy task too, being the globe trotting generation that we are in now. Loved ones are probably all over the world.

As the Year of the Ox slowly creeps in, i'll like to wish all my friends a very Happy Lunar New Year, and especially to my cousin in London - let's make our dreams come true AGAIN!! =D

Juju

2009-01-19T17:13:00.008+08:00

The other day at Alison's.

Her pet kitty, Juju The Meow-Right-Back-Atcha.

Juju: Mmm....

Juju: Mmaaah............

Juju: Mmaaaahhaaooooooooo..............

Wasnt too pleased with me snapping pictures of her non-stop.

Cats can be so cute. I bumped into one the other day at my grandma's place, it was a Norwegian LongHair Forest Cat. It was so gorgeous. If i were to ever get one, this will probably be it. White colour!

This is how it looks like. So dignified!

Unbelievably Chio rigght?! =D

Failed Bake

2009-01-17T22:00:00.005+08:00

My first attempt at making the Chocolate Fondant cake. U know.. you cut the cake open and chocolate lava oozes out nicely from the fluffy sponge cake. Sigh, my tastebuds tingle just the mention of it.

But goddamn it, i had all the ingredients measured to a gram. I bought strawberries. I had hersheys' chocolate. I bought good flour. Fresh eggs! But nabe, still didnt worked out well. Apparently, dumb me had the temperature set too low.. causing the cake unable to rise spectacularly.

Well, its my first try, so have a look at the HKBHJ cake:

Whisk egg & sugar till fluffy consistency. Checked!

Melt butter & chocolate. Checked!

Then mix flour into chocolate mixture. Checked!

Pour chocolate mixture into egg. Checked what!

Then i put it into these frikking aluminium cups liao lor. Then still must do what!!??!! I even talked to them while baking!

(Rise you little muthaf******, rise! %#$&^@)

Ok, this is better! ^_^

See, everything looks good and fine! But it doesnt taste good and the texture is just not good! =(

Whatever! Bleh!

A new year moment

2009-01-12T14:55:00.004+08:00

I am overwhelmed with new year's resolutions.

Not that i fulfilled all of my last year ones (wat was it again?). But always, as this time of the year comes, i cant help but to feel alittle bit more motivated, fresh and hopeful (almost to the point of naive)... of all the nice good things that is going to happen.

P.S: Top of the list, i plan to lose 3kg. Effortlessly. Period.

GOD BLESS! ^_^

Tokyo Raiders - Final Part

2009-01-07T17:25:00.005+08:00

Headed to the Tsukiji Market early in the morning hoping to catch some tuna auction, to no valid. Sianz to the max. Apparently, winter is the busiest time for the fishermen and they no want no pesky tourists to be lurking around while they're doing their business. Usually its closed between Mid-Dec to Mid January.

No such luck for me this time! Bleh. We decided to head out to look for some fresh sushi at one of the world's biggest fish market. FILL THE BELLY! =D

Wah lau... every restaurant have to queue, siao one leh. Japanese are actually just like Singaporeans. They queue even when they're not sure which one is the better one too. Anyway, being super kiasu, i just joined in the queue that have the most japanese in it. You'll be surprised to find how many singaporeans/hongkongers/taiwanese in this area.

Almost our turn.. WE EAT!

My verdict is: its actually no big deal. I thought i could have the freshest and bestest deal for sashimis at Tsukiji, but later realised i have had some better sushi/sashimi elsewhere in Tokyo. This place is just too hyped up already.

And its not cheap hor! Nabe.

After a long day of shopping at Ikebukuro, my tummy starts to hurt.. which explains my pale as paper face. =( I wanted to head back and rest before we go over to Shiodome for dinner, the 2some decided to follow as well.

Some train fun as we're heading back:

A regular sight at Tokyo, we're talking about 10 degrees and we have girls dressed up like these. She makes me feel like a nun all wrapped up. =(

Calvin: .... oh... my... god... (takes deep breeeath...)

Orrrrhhhhh....

Heheheheeee, now i can sleep happily tonight..!

After finishing my desserts below, i snooze alittle before we go out for dinner at Shiodome.

The sky-restaurants located at the Caretta Shiodome.

Easily the place of restaurants that offers the best views of Tokyo. You definitely have to come here. They offer a variety of cuisine at this place, from Chugoku (Chinese) to French, Italian, Korean and of course japanese.

But remember to ask your friendly concierge at the hotel to make bookings for you. If not, you will have to wait till 9pm for your dinner to start, that is, if you're lucky.

Two storey ceiling high restaurants

The japanese makes meat looks soooo beautiful even when its raw that i almost had it sashimi-style. But decided not to be so adventurous as i didnt want any upset tummy on a vacation.

The biggest and juciest pieces of scallops i have ever had, grilled with special sukiyaki-broth and butter.

Big fat lazy strips of crabmeat awaiting their turn to be grilled into succulent perfection.*

(Smiles and sigggh....)

We ate till we wanted to throw up. And it sets our pocket lighter by about $400sgd. For 3 person of course! So i reckon, for 2 person.. should easily hit 300. But with such nice food and view, coupled with the legendary service of the japanese, dont think you will compain lah.

On holiday leh! =D Below are some of the Xmas illuminations, kind of nice.

The next day, Calvin & May decided to head over to DisneySea. Not a big fan of them. I decided to head over to the ever quirky Harajuku to soak in the festive moods.

Japanese Engrish... ^_^

"I walk my monkey like you walk your dog."

Throngs of people waiting to go into H & M. Why is it like this worldwide?! Its sooo insane. The tempura restaurant that we ate is just opposite H & M at Harajuku, its pretty good.

Try it!

My last munch of crepes before we took the train and head back to our hotel at Shinagawa, back to Singapore now! Sayonara Tokyo!

Gift

2008-12-28T23:42:00.003+08:00

My Christmas present from Sebby! =D

*Loves*

Tokyo Raiders Part 2/3 - Nikko

2008-12-27T15:50:00.005+08:00

*Yawn*... we were up before daybreak and stumbling to the train station unaware of what the day is going to bring us. Yes, we are going NIKKO! But none of us have ever been there, and to get here, it takes 2 hrs by train 1 hr by bus. It doesnt help that my jap is super half past six too. =P Nevertheless, we pick our adventurous asses and to the Tobu line (Asakusa Station) we go! Yow!

7am

Tobu Line train station, our train leaves at 7.30am, hurry!

Calvin & May couldnt wait to start our very own Japan Hour documentry, eating oiishi bento breakfast on trains! ^_^

We snooze after a hearty breakfast. Long day ahead...

What we have been looking at during our 2 hour ride.

We arrived at Nikko! =DDD

Made a mad dash to the bus station and to our first destination, Lake Chuzenji!

First glimpse of snow when we drove higher up

Lake Chuzenji

I heard some noises when i was walking around Chuzenji area, like a stream gushing. I began searching and following the sound....

Water gushing even louder.... (must find it!)...

A waterfall! aaaaaaaaaaah......

I have always been fascinated with waterfalls and this is by far the one with the biggest drop that i have ever seen. With the frozen icicles by the side and the beauty of the nature that surrounds it, Kegon Falls has a different charm to it in winter and is definitely not a sight to be missed when in Nikko.

We are starving as it approaches noon, been walking around for 2 hours in search of food. But no find anything! =( Apparently, its low season and alot of the restaurants there are close, even the hotels there dont serve you anything as everything is by reservations only. WTF man really!

I was so angry... continue take pictures lah!

Forget lunch! We do what we are here for! FIND THE ONSEN!

For 1300yen, soak all you want with towels provided by the inn! But of course 15mins is ideal lah.. if not, u get fainty when you get out of it.

Aaaah snow covered rocks, green bamboo leafy trees, cold crisp air, warm therapeutic hot springs. I am so easily satisfied.. what more can i ask for in life...

(ok i dont mind a postal code from nassim road.)

Too bad we cant stay over for a night. Blah!

Looking at the japanesey lamps positioned all over the springs area, i bet this place looks fantastic at night.

I cant get over this. =(

Just when you thought the japanese have lost their sense of humour. ^_^ Found this at the bath area.

Refreshed and warm after.

Lonely driveway

Another 3 hours back to Tokyo..

Nikko would have been great if we have spend a night there instead of having to rush back. But we enjoyed ourselves heaps and know we will definitely be back to this beautiful place soon.

Tokyo Raiders

2008-12-24T23:20:00.012+08:00

Can i just emphasized how one can never get sick of this fucking place? Can i?

I mean, as a tourist, its really great awesome fun to be hanging around there, catching all the hype and lights across Shibuya, Harajuku etc. Good food beautiful people pretty but useless things surrounds superficial 'ol me everywhere i go. But for many others that are actually living in Tokyo itself, i know thats like a whole different ballgame altogether.

I met up with Akiko too, a friend of more then a decade now (how time flies..), she still looks great. I was telling her about how the trains in Tokyo are always delaying due to some "accident" that i saw on the time schedule boards at stations. Surprisely, those "accidents" are usually people commiting suicide by jumping off the tracks. Akiko said that it happens about 3 times a week and that delays last usually an hour, they actually have "experts" in clearing up the splattered bloody bodies at the JR line.

What a gruesome interesting fact.

I was there for 6 days this time doing the usual grab-shopping at major districts with the exception of going to the countryside Nikko - one of the world heritage site. We did a day trip which is really rush, considering that the journey to and fro takes 5.5hrs. Super sei man. But look at the pictures that i will be uploading soon by parts and you'll know why its a must-visit.

Brace yourself for Japan my friends, enjoy. ^_^

Arriving at the Tokyo-Narita Airport

With Calvin

Back to Shinagawa Prince hotel and to Shibuya for dinner we go! Ikemasusho!

With May @ the cross junction of Shibuya

We're starving after a long flight. And found this awesome restaurant that serves really good japanese shabu shabu for a good price. Our first dinner at the land of the rising sun! Itadakimasu!

We didnt wana have too full a dinner as when you're in Tokyo, how can you miss out on the sweets? We proceed to some dessert hunting! =D

After dessert, we were super drowsy and decided to head back to our hotel after such a long day. *yawn*.. we were up since 330am. Sei man.

The next day, for my usual practice whenever im in Tokyo, i'll go over to the Asakusa Kannon Temple for some blessings. Its always so crowded and pretty over here!

To the subway we go!

This picture looks like 2 blind person holding out for each other.

Looking for a yukata for sebby.. ^_^

After walking around the temple shortly, we decided to head for lunch for some tempura! On our way in search of the restaurant, we bumped into famous japanese actress RINKO KIKUCHI! I couldnt believe my fucking eyes! She was filming around Asakusa area and dumb me was sooo star struck, i forgot to take pictures of her... i feel so stupid. =( I have liked her since Babel, she is so amazing in it. Blaah!

We eat!

We head back to put our purchases and away to Harajuku we go! I went for a haircut at Peek-a-boo at Harajuku, i thought my cut would have been awesome cos its a japanese stylist, turns out that it wasnt anything to shout about. It looks ok at first, but after 2 days, my hair was sooo un-manageable. I am so disappointed. =(

After my 6300yen haircut, i stood outside Gap waiting to go for dinner with Akiko at Gonpachi ^_^

The food here is pretty good though lots of gaijins (foreigners) frequent this place, Bush was previously brought here for dinner too when he last visited Tokyo. As usual im the kind that starts gobbling down the food the moment it is being served thus, paiseh lor.. no pics leh! =P

After dinner, we took a walk over to Roppongi Hills. One of the more atas area in Tokyo, my recommendation is that, if you wana catch the Tokyo Tower.. go over to Mori Building. The view there is really nice. Below is only a teaser.

The streets of Roppongi Hills during Xmas season.

A glimpse of the Tokyo Tower

*Merry Christmas people, may all our wishes come true *

Glamourlicous??

2008-12-13T11:25:00.021+08:00

Company night at Velvet.

Pretty Vivian, Me, May, Vicky and Selina =)

Denise, Aaren, Nari and me

Listening very attentively to who the lucky draw big winner is that night... sadly, i didnt even win a a trip to the bathroom.

I hate lucky draws.

The split-personality twins: Justin & Janice

Selina won $600 that night. Bleh.

Heading to Tokyo in 2 days! I cant freaking wait! =D

Daily rants

2008-12-09T14:32:00.005+08:00

Everyday when i flipped through the newspaper, its always about some banks going bust, companies cutting down on staff, inflation going through the roof, political turmoil/terrorism on neighbouring countries etc.

When i was much younger, stuff like that didnt seems to affect me at all. I would still be happily binge-ing on my Rocobarocco, Istante or MCM purchases. Coloured D & G jeans were my favourite! Asian Financial Crisis 1997? Gimme that red Sonia Rykiel bag! I couldnt be bothered more.

But, fast forward 11 years later:

My heart sank when banks crashed. It could mean alot of stuff. I could lose my job. And alot of supposedly "luxuries" i wont be able to enjoy! *shudder*... Unemployment isnt funny. In fact, it can get very real when you have mortgages/bills to pay. My mum wasnt kidding when she said its not how much one earns, but how much one saves.

Its so fun to be a grown up now.

Hopefully one day i might be able to start something that i want. That is economy-downturn-proof. Btw, tmr is my off day. Im changing my hair colour!

P.S: The writer is still going on her Tokyo trip next week. (we have to keep our morale up shouldnt we?) ^_^

Bali

2008-12-06T12:14:00.026+08:00

My first time in Bali.

I am supposedly to feel excited and happy. But being separated from Seb just couple hours ago and with all those terrorism news going around.. i cant help to feel conflicted and wonder if its the best time for me to be here. But then again, being a company trip and hanging out with people i enjoy being with, i thought this couldnt be more apt. =P

I am not sure if anyone of you have heard, but it is said that Bali is cursed for couples. If you ever go with your bf/gf to Bali, both of you would end up breaking up. I asked my Indonesia colleague if she knows about this myth and she said YES. She explained that Bali being the holy religious place, if you arent married yet. Why should you be here with your partner?

Myth or no myth, i am not taking any chances! ^_^

Breakfast @ Hard Rock with May & Janice

My colleagues!! ^_^

Chilling with Calvin

The first day was spend literally doing boring stuff, like chilling at the pool, shopping around the area and getting pissed drunk while playing childish games. I wanted to head out to the islands, but was too late as it was all fully booked. I cant explained how disappointed i was. And decided to vent it all out in surfing, even though i didnt know what i was doing! =D

So, to the beach we go!!!

Eeew

Very serious in training

Here we go!!

But ok, i didnt manage stand up, so no other shots are worth putting on here. Hahaha. Ok lah janice, here's your moment of glory.. you very good ok?

The only 1 out of the 5 that went surfing. Only Janice the Crazy Zhu stood up and rode the waves! Watch out Cameron Diaz!

But watever, it only lasted for a mere 3 seconds and she fell. No big deal!

AHAHAHAHAHA!!!!!!!!!

I could not believe how invigorating it was to go surfing. Even though my body hurts like crazy the day after and those little burns and scratches i got, its just sibe fun lah. Just that next time we go, we have to be prepared and wear those tight wetsuits to avoid burns and sand on your private bits. I always thought people that wear those are posers.. now i know why. =D

If i had managed to go to the island that i had wanted to, there would have been more pictures to show and would have been a more meaningful trip.. this is all!!

Come back.. come baaaaack.....

Can someone play with me... ?

Post Trip

2008-12-03T14:17:00.006+08:00

Hey, back! =D

It turns out that we eventually decided to head over to Bali because of the chaotic situation in Thailand. Siggh.. last minute changes.. i can never handle changes well. I hate erraticism. Bleh.

So now, im back home.

...... i miss the cute cute one. He have been around for the last couple months whenever i get home. Feel strange somehow now that he isnt... well.. not for long i hope!!

Anyway, my body fucking hurts like crazy now! Its like someone used a hammer and go WHAM!! on my frikking shoulders while i was asleep last nite... sibe tia. But its actually because i was super cool and went SURFING yesterday! U'know.. like wave-surfing 'dude... like paddle.. stand on board.... ride the waves.... dude!!! =DDD!

It was so much fun! I feel like such a beach babe 'yow! =P

Ive got some pictures to show, but my arms are dead. Till then again on this! ^_^

Another trip?!

2008-11-24T16:35:00.004+08:00

I need to get ready for my Phuket trip happening this weekend!

OMFG!

Why so last minute?!?!

I cant take it! Im not my cousin!

Countryside of Hualien, Taipei

2008-11-23T13:34:00.000+08:00

The driver tricked us!

Initially for our countryside trip, he told us he would charge us NT$6,000 = SGD$400est. I kept asking him if its the "zhong su" aka full price, for 2D1N including the accomodation. He said yes, 4 times! But in the end, he wanted us to pay him NT$12,000! Knn. I was sibe tulan, but becos i heard taiwanese drivers alot of them are ex-convicts, i decided it was best that i just bargained with him for a lower price.. tamade.

It wasnt a bad deal afterall if you think about it.. we had a black S320 benz driving us around Hualien while other people had to follow the schedule of a coach(they paid the same price as us). I was pissed cos its the principle of the issue lah. How can anyhow say one?

Everything went really well though at Hualien, some pictures to show:

On our way to Taroko Gorge

The water is milky grey.. so funny one

After having lunch over here at this small cafe facing the mountains and waterfall, we head off to the Swallow Caves... which pretty much looks the same to the above.. =/

Bird nest here i come!! =DDD

The holes are actually the nests of the birds and because we dont have a tour guide with us and just a fucking driver.. we have to imagine these holes have been here for godzillion years and the bird nest hunters will come here during some spitting season to acquire these goodies. Quite a number of these holes spits out waters.. i am totally fascinated! But not sure about what! =D

My cute cute one!

Cant remember where this place is.. some 9 turns road lah, after a while all these gorges look the same. ^_^ Hualien is about 4 hours drive from Taipei City itself, very sleepy sia during the drive. So after almost half a day of drive and scenic views.. the weather was getting really bad, so we call it a day and return to our "Min Su" - run by local families.

We had the whole place to ourselves, with a kitchen and bathroom. Like a big studio ! The downside is, we're around mountains areas.. so there's lots of insects.. black ants, baby roaches and also CENTIPEDES! Sebby caught one and didnt dare to tell me! Luckily the night went well and nothing bit us.

The next morning, we set off for whale-watching! Waaaaaa!

Hualien Port

The waves were very calm, lucky us!

We went searching for whales for about 45mins, no whales came... but soon we saw something just as cool.....

A whole colonial of dolphins!

By the hundreds! Waaaaaaah!!!

The dolphins were really cool, they seems to like boats and human activities alot.. i was clapping and whistling like crazy at them. In return, they swam really near the boat, flying out of the ocean with a twist, almost showing off. So cute one!

I later found out that the best time for whale watching at Hualien is between June-August, we were too late for it, but well, this is really nice too. Dolphins by the hundreds leh! So there goes our morning, we decided to head back to Taipei after.

Some of the views we passed by while driving back...

The weather was freaking hot, even for early november.

Thats my round up for Taipei, both city and country.

5D4N.. more then enough. ^_^

We love Gold!

2008-11-17T13:02:00.030+08:00

Having went on gold during the Quantum of Solace (which isnt very nice), i was wondering out loud how could anyone ever watch a movie the medieval way again. Duuuh?! So, after dinner last night at this german restaurant Brotzeit, Seb aka The Cute Cute One surprised me on going gold class to watch the very much anticipated - Madagascar! *happy*

You! Sweeeeet! ^_^

The movie was entertaining fo'shizzle~ but i think the penguins didnt make enough appearances and they were funnier in Part 1.. other then that, still nice!

Side track..

Have anyone have any opinions on Sauerkraut?

For the uninitiated, its a traditional german-style cabbages, cut fine, salted and allowed to ferment with brine until sour. I really like it alot, its tasty and it really opens up your appetite for the entree. But the after effect... whooooo...

GIGANTIC AMOUNT OF FARTS I TELL YOU!

For janice and michelle, now i know why i was farting like crazy everyday 20 times FOR A WHOLE MONTH when i was in Europe last year. Seb swore he told me about it before, but i really cant recall and was just happily eating it all the time unaware it was this little sucker!

So paiseh leh.. at that time Sebastian and i just got together.. and i was already farting loud ones so uncontrollably infront of him while he was driving along the romantic alps. I thought i was so disgusting. =(

Luckily, he is nice and isnt judgemental, i am so lucky!

.. puuut.... putput!! ^_^

Schedule Ahead - wah lau eh!

2008-11-15T16:29:00.006+08:00

So many things to do, so little time.

Just got done with seb's birthday, and now i have to think about some Glamourlicious party that my company is going to hold at Velvet next week! Aaaargh. Like what janice said, she's running out of ideas. Its so tough thinking about what you want/can wear.

The Chairman is going to be there.

The Managing Director is going to be there.

And worse, hundreds of gossipy colleagues are going to be there!

Most wont even be dressing up i bet, and i refused not to have fun because of them scandalous mouths. I aimed to provoke, even when i know they cant wait to JUDGE US GIRLS FROM THE RPM! Whatever. We're almost celebrities-like in status... *laughs hysterically!*, we're constantly preyed upon on our fb accounts by all these 'paparazzi', and then those rumour-mongers start creating gossips of their own eventually spreading all the way up to the masses/bosses. So many cant be trusted. Knn to those chao fuckers, delete and block ya'll!

And then there's the SURRISE night by the cute cute one. ^_^

AND, Stephy's hen night, THEN wedding night.

And my unconfirmed December trip.

And.. and then... the cute cute one leaves.... =(

Aiii... so many things to do, so little time.

New phone - yay!

2008-11-10T16:17:00.006+08:00

After much drama in going down to the customer service outlet at Wisma Atria, banging table together with Connie with no valid solution, i ended up calling the help desk.. which is even worse! No reply or followup with their actions for a week.. call the head office helpdesk this time and requested for the CEO's email, i was raging in anger by this time, i just wanted to.. COMPLAIN all the way up to THE CEO who is probably busy with the future of SONY ERICSSON AND TELL HIM THIS : urmm.. my phone is spoil.. gimme a new one leh.. hehe

I was of course denied access but im reasonable, so i settle for the Customer Service Director's email, after some long shitass boo-boo email, finally, someone gave me some attention! ^_^

My new Sony finally arrived at my workplace today, via courier no less.

This just goes to prove, the pen is indeed mightier then the mouth.

My side of Taipei

2008-11-06T13:23:00.006+08:00

Over the past many years, it have never crossed my mind in visiting Taiwan. I mean, i go to Hong Kong too much.. and since Taiwan is just next door, why not there?! I have got no idea.. and if it wasnt for the bf, i think that place would still remain a mystery for me.

Taiwanese are generally friendly, very gracious and warm. I realised all that when i first stepped into Ximending. They are always in a upbeat mood - people at restaurants or shopping places are always greeting and smiling at you. At the MRT, they quene up to go INTO the train, give seats IMMEDIATELY to people who needs it. The staff at the MRT station were equally helpful with the old and needy. When i was at KFC figuring out all those chinese words on the menu, a lady actually gave me a coupon so that i could get a cheaper fucking popcorn chicken.. isnt that awesome? Well, it could also because Sebastian is as white as a tourist thus the attention, but.. its still a nice gesture.

But people aside, Taipei city itself is ONE BIG BORE. I mean, XMD, Shilin night market and Taipei 101 area was ok, but do i look like i give a shit about some Chiang Kai-Shek or Sun Yat San Memorial or Presidential Tower shit?

Ok, we also tried to look for some hot-springs, and was told of the Xin Beitou area - was full of hot springs! So we went, happily in search. But when we finally found it, it turns out to be so shitty, that me, a singaporean-amatuer-hot-springer even DARES to scoff in disgust! Diameter of the badly man-made-cave-like pond : 5 x 4 metres is filled wth murky waters and overflowing with screaming kids with their floats and old people. Wah lau! Hot spring is like that one meh??

I wished i could have a picture to show, but i was too appalled that i scurried away pulling Seb with me. Definitely a no-go recommendation to anyone. Unless you're desperate.

Here's a look at Ximending, one of the more interesting shopping places around:

Also a must-go in Taipei city is the Shilin Night Market:

I cant say much about the food though as you can see im with a angmoh, as local as it goes i only had a chicken fillet (chee-bar) which tasted so good! ^_^ And the shopping stuff here is cheap too, very Bangkok-style.

The amazing mrt QUEUE and the station was packed ok. We should all learn from it! Sibe gracious lor!

Also, Taipei 101:

On our way there, we pass by this diagonal traffic junction...

Suddenly, i hear chanting....

"LUO ZHI XIANG! LUO ZHI XIANG! LUO ZHI XIANG!!!"

I made a mad dash and i found this!

Seb face abit black black.. so i decided not to be distracted and move on... =P

@ entrance of Vomit 101...

@ mall of 101... just like our Orchard Paragon

Sooo excited to be going up the Taipei 101 until....... we saw the freaking queue for it!

It was snaking around for like 400metres or so, but luckily the queue moved pretty fast and we were up there in 20mins. Tip: If you dont like to queue at all, avoid the morning and afternoons as there's alot of tour groups, go during the evenings.

The view from 101: very cloudy.. i especially like these meanders.

After loitering around the viewing area for almost an hour, we decided to head down to one of the restaurants at the shopping mall of 101. We decided to go to his italian restuarant call "dot". A meal with salad, soup, main course & desert only cost SGD$35 - cheap and good!

After dinner, we decided to head back to our lousy hotel : Flower Hotel

This hotel just fucking sucks. The walking distance to XMD is less then 10mins so that was ok. But the hotel room... how come got lizard one?!?! And it was circling the ceiling for the entire night! Seb was so worried that it is gona shit on his face. Haha.

The bed was the most horrible ever. As a traveller u would at least want a ok-bed, but this.. it gives you a full bodyache the next morning, how to shop like that??

I think Taipei is good for a 4D3N but any longer, you better be heading out to the rurals! My next entry would be about the countryside of Taiwan. Eyeball here!

Till then!

As Blair as it gets

2008-10-29T00:06:00.003+08:00

A Tribute to The Queen Bee - Head sets or hair pieces, watever. This style is totally under-rated. We should see more of them everywhere everyday!

The Birthday Gal Candice

Zelley!

Alrighty, im off to Taipei, till then... "you know you love me".. ^_^

Xoxo,

Stupid Girl

New phone, bad phone

2008-10-25T12:51:00.024+08:00

And i thought Samsung was screwed up.

Within 3 days of purchase, my spanking new Sony fucking Ericsson W980 is already giving me problems - it just cuts off by itself within minutes when im on the line making all these multi-million dollar deals! I should totally sue them.

WHY IS THIS HAPPENING TO ME?!?

I always have problems with electronic stuff. I used to think all cheap electronic stuff MUST be bad. So, i decided to go abit more expensive. And even so, it STILL gives you problems! Jan said i should just go for a one-to-one exchange, but i know those stupid people would just tell me they do not have a exchange policy! Nabe.

Connie is nice, she offered to help me get a new phone back. She is one crazy nut that alway get what she wants by arguing the heads off customer service people, example : she got herself a Samsung flatscreen 32" TV from Starhub out of nowhere; She bought a Prada wallet, after 4 months got sick of it, she simply "had it exchanged" for a new one. 4 months leh! Is that not some fantastic oral job or what.

Here's a look at my chio but lau-yah phone:

Pursuit Of Happiness

2008-10-22T11:34:00.013+08:00

My leave have finally been approved and im headed for my next destination - Hellooo, Taiwan !

Departure date set 29th October! ^_^

It was mentally torturous while waiting for my leave to be approved, i mean, i am already leaving next wednesday but only got the OK-sign yesterday. Speaking of mind-fuck, my boss is the mother of it. Having a leave granted in our department is like the doors of nirvana opening up to you. You always have to beg... wait... in suspense... for weeks... head churning. You get my drift.

Whatever happen to the good 'ol days of "entitlement" ?