Stalkerish

Since I'm having 2 weeks of study leave, I've been doing something rather stalkerish.

The story goes like this:

It was during my primary 6 graduation trip. I was lucky enough to be in the same group of students from class 6S. I was in 6R you see.

There was this boy, which became the talk of my female classmates. Ok, he doesn't exactly have that to-die-for kind of looks, but he had qualities which I must admit, are rather attractive.

He was smart, being in the best class among the 5 (I was in the 3rd), bespectacled, tall, english-speaking, charismatic, a prefect, rich, and rather cute. How do I know he's rich ? Well, he told me his parents gave him 200 bucks to spend on that 4 days trip, which is considered a lot, given that age.

Flipping through the photo albums, I realized that I was actually in the same class as him during primary 2 !

And my fondest memory of the trip was: you know during those times, there was this kind of machine for kids. You put in 20 or 50 cents, and you can spin the knob to get all kinds of toys. In my case, it was those egg-sized container which opens with a toy inside.

So he actually bought a few and gave them to me !!!

*** Forward to the present day. A couple of years back, I was working in World of Cartoons at Midvalley. Guess who I saw there ? Jeng jeng jeng, him ! Shopping with his mum. Not long later, I saw him again in Jalan Telawi, Bangsar. A couple of days later, I saw him again at the cinema! Oh the cheesiness.

Anyways, these days I've trying to search for him through facebook via friends of the same primary school. I even googled him. But sadly, to no avail. Stakerish ?

Roads

Haven @ LookOut Point

Just had dinner with a bunch of friends. Should not have gone out, but I guess, what the hell. Talked about a myriad of affairs. One friend recounted that he had on several occasions took drives out at night ALONE to Genting for a cuppa coffee, to Putrajaya or just pure wandering around KL.

Ok, that's a little weird but kinda cool too. Just thought I ought to try it some time. Maybe I could improve on my sense of directions. Which sucks big time I tell you.

Oh, dinner tonight was kinda wonderful. There were moments that we were just listening to the live music of Eric Clapton's Wonderful Tonight, John Denver's Leavin' on a Jet Plane, Glenn Medeiros' Nothing Can Change My Love for you. Although we weren't talking, it was not at all awkward. I guess comfort does come with long association.

I personally like this rendition of Wonderful Tonight by Michael Buble.

***

Suddenly, I long for a holiday by the beach with a book in my hand. Dare I travel alone coming holidays in December ? Pulau Tiga seems tempting.

Unintentional

I was mean today. I don't know what got into me. I need to control my temper.

I sat here reflecting and realized I was mean in so many occasions. Just because others' actions seemed absurd, I make nasty and sarcastic remarks. Who am I to judge ?

Anti-social

I'm totally worried that I'm becoming anti-social. Since working, I've intentionally missed 3 company events: Sport club's dinner (which I contribute 5 dollars a month), group trip and industry dinner.

In fact, I had actually signed up for the group trip to prove to myself that I'm not anti-social but I ended up lying about being sick.

I feel kinda pathetic having seen others having a time of their lives getting to know their colleagues and making new friends while I am here friendless. Well, I do meet acquaintances but I just haven't found someone or a group of individuals that are my clique.

I just don't feel comfortable attending these events and I haven't an idea why. Maybe I'm just unwilling to step out of my comfort zone ? Maybe I'm feeling insecure ?

To bid Farewell

Dear Naoki,

I wish you a safe journey to the land of Moo Moo. Your presence shall be sorely missed.

Go on and have a time of your life. Stop comparing with those of us who have started working. You have made your choice. Be proud of it. Experience all you can. Just remember to come back by September next year. ;)


Yours truly,
M00nie

Simple

I really like this song from 宮心計 or 'Beyond the Realm of Conscience'.



It's like so simple, accepting things as they are, so serene.

But yet at the same time, it sings a sad tune of those serving girls at the palace, who just want to return home.

***

Really addicted to 'You Belong with Me' too. Been putting it on repeat mode through journey to work and home.

Reminisce

Someone once told me about a movie called 'the Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants'. It's amazing how she could describe it with such detail that when I finally watched it, it happened exactly in the order of her narration.

I always liked these sharing sessions. Although it would end up with her doing all the talking, but hey, I'm a great listener.

~

I remember one night watching a local production 'Sepet'. It was the kind of movie that would leave me thinking about it well after it has ended. In such occasions, I would need someone to discuss it with.


With my mind flowing with thoughts, I logged onto msn and guess who had just watched it too? The very same person.

~

It is incredible how someone could recount an entire 3 days of leadership camp to you, all in less than an hour. It was as if you were there. In less than an hour, I had learnt about all the main characters and could recount to you the highlights of the trip. Though it is rather vague now, I only remember: watermelon, umbrella and Rihanna.

That was how it was.

~

Oh, I think I'm beginning to like my job. Just a little. Kinda like the traveling part and the flexibility. It's like I could go to work at 11 am. (Shhh ... don't tell anyone) I also like going to new places. I didn't know there's a shopping centre in KL called CapSquare.

I think I'm a teeny-weeny better at roads now. (Oh, GPS is such a wonder)

And I like having lunch at different places. This week, I love the coffee shops located near the company I was auditing. The concept is pretty different. It's not those chinese eatery with many hawkers selling food like wanton mee, prawn mee, pork mee etc ...

It's those chinese eateries owned by one owner, and you would order from one menu, which include: Vietnamese chicken rice, fried rice, Signature 'Chew-pai' mee, Chicken chop with rice ... Something a little different.

Well, but I think such bliss is only short-lived. Because for these couple of weeks I've been auditing unit trusts, which is a no-senior kind of engagement. Next week would be a different story altogether.

~

Mock exam's this Sunday, and I have not touch anything yet. So ciaoz ...

A little bit of Kindness

Good morning !
I'm back at the office on this Saturday morning. No thanks to myself for falling asleep before finishing my work yesterday.

Anyways, I went to my almost weekly doctor's visit today. Yeah, my surgical wound has been giving me problems again. The staff nurse applied some kind of iodine onto the wound and said that it would be quite a cost.

So I went to the counter to make the payment and apparently I didn't have to pay anything. I think I have my doctor to thank for.

Ah, don't we all need a little kindness in our lives ?

His deed gave me this sense of warmth that I want to be kind to someone I may not know personally, because however small the deed may be, it will surely make a difference.

Because of his kindness, he made my day. I hope I could make someone's day too.

Mixed feelings

How can I begin to describe my feelings today ? It's a mixture of happiness and a little bit of shame. I guess I learnt an invaluable lesson today. Let this be a reminder not to repeat the same mistake.

***

Oh oh by the way, am loving my birthday presents this year. I got a belt and a watch, which I had plans to buy and some skin-care products, which I do *heart*. It's as if my friends had read my mind.

Am a little curious on what dad got me. Cause he said he wanted to pass me something. Hopefully it would be something I like.

Ah ... can't believe the 4 days of raya holidays have come to its end. Seem like it went by in a blink of an eye. Yet I did not have any progress in the ... drama series/movies I have prepared for the holidays. Let's look at what was on my list:

Drop Dead Diva
D.I.E
Vampire Diaries
Melrose Place
Gossip Girl
Ghost of Girlfriends Past

Thought of doing some reading in preparation for my ACCA Mock Exam, well, I did do some reading, just that it was Terry Goodkind's 'Wizard's First Rule'.

***

Don't know why, but I suddenly really miss the BC, though I just saw them a while ago. It's like I'm afraid of losing them, not because of a quarrel or the like, but because of time and changing circumstances.

Soon some of them would get married, some would find their significant other. Not that I wouldn't be happy for them, it's just that it wouldn't be the same. I just wish I could freeze this moment.

Suddenly so many things I held on to seem so petty now, suddenly I start to see things in a different light. Let me remember this awakening.

Busy and Leisure

This week has been both hectic and leisure.

Throughout the beginning of the week I've been rushing to finish the engagement. So I came home on Monday at 3 am. On Thursday, I was supposed to attend a stock-take over at Shah Alam, but I was released from the job. I was actually pretty excited about it, though I'm supposed to attend it alone and would have to find my way there myself, which I am pretty bad at.

But well, it gave me this sense of independence. Too bad I was released.

You see, though I'm doing audit, but the industry I'm assigned to specializes in Financial Services. So there is no stock-take except for cash count (heh-heh). So this stock-take that I'm assigned to is actually another industry's job.

Anyways, as I was released from the stock-take this week, tomorrow would be my self-declared holiday. Yay ! (Now I seriously hope none of my colleagues are reading this)

Next week I'd still be on the same job, hopefully something good turn's up !

Of thoughts and all that is

It's been some time since I last blogged. Somehow, my thoughts doesn't flow into words as easily as before. Probably because I've been busy with work too.

Just came back from our supposed Merdeka Countdown. Yeah, I know the newspaper have been reporting that there'd be no countdown and all but just thought I'd take my chances.

The bitches and I ended our Merdeka Countdown with the thriller ' The Orphan '. I'm giving it a thumbs up. One of the best thriller I've watched this year.

***

Celebrated Zin Mun's birthday on Saturday. The official date is 26th August, but as it was a weekday, the celebration was postponed to Saturday.

Now, as usual princess Joozie broke the news that she had to work on that day a little too late and so I was left with the birthday girl for almost the entire day.

We had Meng Kee Chicken Rice (I think ?) @ Jalan Alor for lunch and then headed to Just Heavenly Pleasures @ Bukit Damansara for desserts. Actually, dessert was a take-away as it is only a retail outlet that sells desserts and not a cafe. Though you may opt to have your desserts over at Chef & Brew, just opposite Just Heavenly Pleasures, but you'd have to add another 15% to the price tag.

We bought a slice of 'Death by Chocolate' and 'Banana Cream Pie'. Death by Chocolate was nice, but a tiny bit too sweet for my liking. Banana Cream Pie was nice too but it would be perfect if the crust was not so hard.

We then had movies (G.I. Joe) at Midvalley and dinner was Porto Romano @ Mont Kiara. Food was alright but ambiance was superb. Price was quite reasonable too, given the setting of the place.

So what did we get her for her birthday ? An Ipod Nano ! Cost me a bomb ! But it was totally worth it though. Think she liked it.

Hope the birthday outing wasn't too boring though.

Attitude and Confidence Says it all

Working life enables encounters with many different kinds of people. One encounter left me with something to ponder upon.

One of my colleague was born with a deformed hand. But he has never shown any signs of embarrassment. Working with him, he exudes an air of confidence and you could see that he does not see it as an impairment.

Perhaps it's his confidence and attitude towards this setback that I don't see it as a disability too.

Tou-ched

I went home tonight to find this.

Removing it from the bag, I found this.

It's a roller backpack, a gift from Aunty Lily and Aunty Betty. You see, in my line of work, I've gotta carry a laptop to work. And after my accident, my aunts were worried that carrying a laptop by my back would aggravate my injury and so ... Ta-da ! Brand new backpack.

I really feel so tou-ched ! It's like they worry about my condition even more than myself. And they can even think of the tiniest details that would affect my daily life.

Thank you Aunty Lily and Aunty Betty !


***

Another person to thank is my doctor, Dr. Harwant Singh. Somehow I had become his god-daughter. He has been refering me as his god-daughter to the nurses. And it has been some time that he hasn't been charging me for consultation. Like this week itself, I visited him 3 times, all free of charge.

Maybe he feels sorry for having me go under his blade for 4 times already. But well, as a top-notch doctor in the orthopedic field, he has incredibly great bedside manners.


Well, I guess I'll stop here, need to go bathe and then go Zzzz. Tomorrow or rather today marks the beginning of my Sundays gone for having to attend ACCA classes. Suddenly I feel like I'm so hardworking. =)

Finally ... I hope ?

Just last Friday I was admitted yet again, on the same date as my last admission, the 26th. This marks my fourth operation on my spine. It was because of another infection. This time, I finally got the plates and screws removed. Even kept them as souvenirs.

Well, hopefully this would be my last visit.

Weight

Suddenly I just feel the weight of the world upon me. I have pending engagement past dateline but I could not complete because substantial information have yet to be passed to me. Yet I question whether I've taken enough initiative/actions. And the worse thing is, I'm still on MC now.

In the meantime, I've taken significant amounts of MCs in the short span of time I've been with the firm. All facts considered, I feel like such a liability.

Things are just not working out the way I had imagined it to be.

Oh please help me sort things out. Give me motivation, positivity, determination, perseverance ...

MsRedd to the Moo

On 14 May 2009, MsRedd has left for the Land of Moo Moo.

Almost the entire LimClan was there to send her off. It was extremely crowded. Got to see Uncle John, have not seen him like for a decade. Last I remember seeing him, was when I tagged along when he sent Michelle to Ballet classes.

Michelle, Uncle John and MsRedd

Everything was all fine until MsRedd announced that she was leaving for the departure hall. I gave her a hug (something which I don't normally initiate) and saw that she was in tears. Things started to get really emotional. Everyone was crying.

Ahhh ... even I was on the verge of tearing. But I managed to hold it in.

Anyways, I hope the best for you, MsRedd. May you be able to kick-start your life over there real soon and may it be a wonderful experience for both you & Julian.

P.S. I am looking forward to attend a wedding in Moo Moo !

I'm Back

Well, so I'm back at the hospital. Yesterday I found out the devastating news that I have infections again. So the doctor decided to take out the metal plates implanted in me.

Today I went through the surgery, turns out the infection is very minimal and the doctor decided to leave the plates in. So now I just have to wait for the surgical wound to heal and I should be back on my feet.

It's just such a coincidence. I am now in the same room and bed as my last admission. Even the nurses still remember me.

Aih, this year has been bad f0r me. Looking back, I have been admitted into the hospital each month since March. Hopefully no more.

Random Update

Well, been living in a hectic world I guess. Though ironically, I've been having two 4 days week, thanks to Labor Day & Wesak.

Working have been absolutely dreadful, in fact I am having one of those Monday blues right now. But I need to snap out of it. Positivity, that's what I need right now.

Other news include ... MsRedd is leaving on Thursday! Sob Sob. And I am afraid I may not be able to send her off at the airport. Hopefully, I could leave early on Thursday. Efficiency! I need to work faster.

Mother's Day had mum sick with stomachache. So we didn't go out on this special occasion. Though my wallet has shrink significantly as other 'contributions' were made.

Okies, sleep is calling on me.

Among other things

Last Sunday was my CONVOCATION !!!

I am now an official degree holder of Bachelor of Arts Accounting & Finance.

Thought it would be a great deal to me, but I woke up that day having thoughts of skipping the ceremony.

***

Visited the doctor today, I CAN BEGIN WORK ON MONDAY !!!

X-ray of my lumbar spine taken today. Can clearly see the surgically implanted screws.

Is excited to begin work again, but am I rushing things ? I must admit that I am now a Panadol junkie. Been relying heavily on it as pain killer. Though my spine and surgical wound have been healing well, I have been having back pains.

Let's see how it goes on Monday.

200 th post

Gee, this is already the 200th post.

Ahhh ... it feels so great to be able to bathe normally again.

Went to stay with Godpa for 2 nights. It was supposed to be a bonding cum lecture session. He certainly did give insights to different perspectives in looking at things but I was shocked to discover his perspective of me.

Anyways, it was absolutely an experience and I enjoyed having the '24' drama series marathon with him.

Had fun bonding with my youngest cowzen, Ashley. Though she may be a little demanding at times. Once, while I was watching tv in the room, she came in and circled around me talking nonsense. (Nonsense because I haven't any idea what she was blabbing about) Determined to continue watching my '24', I pretended to sleep and started snoring loudly. And you know what she did ?

She jumped onto the sofa I was on, and started and hugging and pulling my legs. Oh, but the cuteness is unbearable !



Please excuse the singing lah. I know it sucks. But she is really full of energy ! Been dancing like for almost an hour on 'ABBA' songs.

Reflections

Was watching officially the stupidest reality drama I've ever watched : Paris Hilton's My New BFF and got into reflection mode.


It kinda reminded me about the stupid things I've done in the past. Funny how it seemed the most reasonable action then but now I feel like burying these memories in deep pits and hope no one remembers.

Read MsRedd's blog. She's leaving for the land of Moo Moo in 4 weeks.

MsRedd has become someone I've come to look up to. From an extremely irritating and mean bully and always moody individual, she became a caring cousin, someone who's always cheery and seem to have come to terms to who she is. I like the new her. Someone who's proud to be who she is and always seem so carefree and happy.

Maybe it comes with age, but I'm looking to get there.

Discharged

Monday, 7pm

Dr. Harwant came to check on my wound. Actually he came in the morning, but I was in the toilet and he knocked my door reminding me to take my breakfast. I find the scene kinda funny.

He took out the tubes which was attached to my wound in order to drain the dirty blood within. I thought it would be a little painful, but before I even realized it, it was already out.

Bags of blood attached to the tube

He said today was the first time he saw me smile. True enough, knowing that I'd be discharged the next day, it made me really happy.

***

Tuesday, 4pm

I am finally discharged ! Doctor said that the wound is healing nicely. Hopefully I could return to work soon. Just feel so guilty, started work only 2 weeks, then take so many days of MC.

Throughout my 2 weeks stay at the hospital, I feel that the job as a nurse is really noble. When I wasn't allowed to walk, they would have to help me pee on the bedpan, and then clean my pp. Every morning, they would sponge me clean. Every 2 hours or so, they would have to come in to measure my blood pressure and temperature.

Momentarily, I had thoughts of pursuing nursing.

To those worried commenters, I am now uplifted and okay. No worries !

Thank you all for the fruits, the ginseng tea, the chicken essences, and all those chinese herbs thingies ! Special thanks for all the care you guys have shown to me !

Some thoughts

Thank God for wi-fi ...
Currently still in hospital ... but just discovered they actually have wi-fi access free for patients.
Noted down some thoughts during my 4 days here. So I thought I'd share with you guys.

***

I've always regarded myself as a strong individual. Not physically, but mentally, although I do cry on occasions where dramas become too touching.

After my fall, I was admitted to the hospital for 6 days. I can tell you that during those 6 days I wasn't sad nor laden with worries. I knew the medical bill was already taken care of by both the company and my personal insurance. The doctor also assured that my body was working fine. The only thing on my mind was the wreck I caused. The broken ceiling and the still-leaking water tank.

I was thankful that I did not die nor become paralyzed. The only setback was the inconvenience that came with having a surgical wound. Simple things like bathing, wearing my clothes, walking became such a task to me.

Soon my back started aching, headaches developed and my wound wouldn't stop bleeding. Waking up from a lying position became such a painful experience. But soon the problem was resolved. I went to see the doctor and was given strong pain killers.

Things started to get better and I was relieved. Convocation was near and I felt so happy to be able to help Zin Mun and her bro collect their robes as well. It made me feel like I was normal again.

But then bad news came. My sister, whom was assigned to change my wound's dressing everyday told me the wound was becoming bigger and bigger. Went to see the doctor and it turned out I was allergic to the sutures. I had to be admitted again. Doctor told me that it will only be a 2, 3 days thing and so I kept my spirits up.

But one can only keep their spirits up only so long. Mum stayed in the hospital with me the 1st day. The 2nd day, she went home. That day, I really felt very sad. Because the doctor wanted to make sure the inner sutures would heal properly and that there will no longer be allergic reaction, he kept the wound open. (Meaning he did not stitch it up) I shudder at the thought of the nurse changing the dressing of the wound. It was painful.

From 2, 3 days it became 6 days. At first, the doctor said that he would stitch the wound up on Saturday and that I could be discharged on Sunday. Then he changed his mind. He would only stitch it up on Monday and I could only go home on Tuesday.

Again the fickle minded doctor changed his mind and he stitched it up yesterday. But still I could only return on Tuesday. I totally dread my time here.

I feel lonely and miserable. I just feel so victimized. All I wanted to do was to help my mother solve the problem of the leaking water tank. And it ended up with me fracturing my spine. I thought I was getting better, but I had to be admitted again. I really hate the hospital. I feel like a handicap.

This was written at my downiest moment. I never knew being hospitalized could be such a mental torture.

But only one thing kept me 'sane'. Some of you may not realized it, but a simple message asking how I was doing made me feel much better. And I thank you all for that.

Hmmm

... looks like I'm on a streak of bad luck here.

For quite a number of days, my surgical wound have been bleeding. It was so bad that I had to sleep with a towel by my back.

This couple of days, it got worse. On top of bleeding, pus started coming out and the wound started to open with a rather massive opening. So I went to see the doctor today.

Turns out I might either be allergic to the inner sutures or that there is infection. Final result is, I have to be admitted to the hospital AGAIN, tomorrow noon.

Hopefully, everything would turn well soon.

Predicament of an hero

While some of you may be unaware, I've been admitted to the hospital for the last 6 days. What happened was, I had a bad fall.

On one fine Saturday afternoon, the water tank on the ceiling decided to throw a fit. Before long, water was dripping all over the house. This was when the man of the house (that's me!) decided to take a ladder to climb up the ceiling. Being on top of the ladder, I couldn't exactly see what was wrong. And I took an awful step onto the ceiling.

Apparently, my weight was too much to hold and I fell onto the floor and fractured my spine. Following that was a surgery to my spine, an insertion of 4 screws to hold the bones in place for proper recovery.

Until now, the incident still feels so surreal. I still cannot believe this had happened to me. In fact, I haven't any memory of me falling down. All I remembered was me climbing up the ladder and the next thing was me in the hospital, with my friends by my side.

Phew ...

Just got back home. It was soooo darn scary walking to the carpark. As you see, in order to save some bucks, I decided to park my car at the HELP open carpark. As it was late at night early in the morning, the only way to reach the parking lot was down a dilapidated staircase. It's like walking down into a dark and deserted open space, out of view from highways surrounding it. One word: Scary.

Many have said that audit is an extremely arduous job, but I didn't imagine it to be that tough. After only 2 weeks, I can tell you that I am already worn-out. For days I've returned home only at the wee hours and be back at work by 9 am.

But today or rather yesterday was an exception.

I heard the message tone on my phone. Still a little blur, I reached for my phone. Imagine my astonishment when the display screen showed 13:17. It was 1pm in the afternoon and I was still in bed !

I was already 1 day late from the due date, and I actually overslept. Moreover, I had set 2 alarms and still I stayed asleep. Ah, the tiredness has certainly gotten me.

Well, I better go, I am due for medical check-up at 8.30am.

Here Comes the Bride 2

Looks like we're on a roll. Another member of the cowzen has gotten married ! In what like 4 months ? We're certainly on a roll. And it seems we're moving down from the eldest to the youngest.

*Gasp*

Will it soon be my turn ?
Wait, I do still need to get a boyfriend first.

The Lim Clan is growing bigger ...
Welcome Angie Ng !!!


Michelle, me and MsRedd
Just look at Michelle with her signature AirAsia pose.

I'm just so happy for them ...
Love is in the air ...

The Lim Cowzens' attempt to 'lala' pose

Such a Small World !

I know I shouldn't be blogging at this hour. But since I have to wait for my hair to dry, might as well lah.

Previously in I wrote about 6 degrees of separation. And it's happening again !

If you have been reading my previous entries, I've just begun work on Monday. And who did I met at work ? It is none other than KayN. She's a college mate I acquainted in the HELP AIESEC camp. And guess what ? She was also a vacation trainee in the same department and group as I ! Only at a different period. But it's just such a coincidence !

And then today I was talking to another girl that happens to know Yi Mei ! They were from the same school and was in the same class for 3 years. What are the odds man !

Finally, I bumped into one of the 'school flower' of my confused school at work too ! And she still looks smoking hot ! It was deadly embarassing actually. When we crossed paths and our eyes met, I was kinda stunned in track. It was like I didn't know whether or not to say hello. Because I don't know whether she recognizes me.

That happened for quite a few seconds (I reckon I had the stunned look on my face too) until she decided to break the awkwardness by saying hello.

Somehow, girls born in 1985 are extra pretty. Serious ! From my observation, there are more pretty girls born in 1985 than 1986. To bring up a case, that 'school flower' has a sister one year younger than her. Probably due to the small gap in years, they look exactly the same. The truth ! I would show you the pictures, but it's kinda like intrusion into their privacy.

But although they look the same, they also don't look the same. Well, it is just that the younger one, though having exactly the same looks, is pale in comparison to her elder sister. Maybe it's the height factor or maybe it's just the way they bring themselves.

But I mean, such a small world right ?

Ok, really gtg Zzzzz ....

Another Phase

February is creeping towards its end, marking the end of my holidays and life as a student. It is the beginning of another phase in my life, the working phase. Officially starting on 2 March 2009.

Can't believe I'm finally here. It always seemed so far away. Ah .... I seriously dread the 8-5 hours. Can you believe it ? We have to repeat this routine everyday till the age of 55 ...

Anyways, enough of the ramblings.

***

Something to look forward to next weekend: The wedding of my dear cowzen, Benjamin.

Introducing ...

The to-be weds
(Hope Ben wouldn't mind me stealing this photo from facebook)

So do look forward to wedding photos !

I Hope Not

I hope not ... I hope not ...
I really hope not ... Please do not be ...

Oscar Material

I've noticed that movies that win Oscars tend to be reality based, perhaps a depiction of a drug addict and sorts. These movies are mostly melancholic, so I never do enjoy them.

As I've had almost two months of holidays, I've put my time to 'good use' by watching 3 of such genre: Rachel Getting Married, The Visitor and Reign Over Me. Of these three, I actually enjoyed 'The Visitor'.

It is an intertwined story of an university professor who has lost his sense to life after the death of his wife and a couple who are illegal immigrants in the New York City. It also tells a tale of ignorance of the rights of illegal immigrants and racial discrimination.

'Rachel Getting Married' was good but I didn't quite enjoy it. Good because Anne Hathaway did a rather good job and the movie really depicts the problems that came with having a sister who is always in and out of the rehabilitation center.

'Reign Over Me' was good according to my sister, but I actually find it rather boring. It tells a story of a man who struggles to help an old college roommate, in dealing with the lost of his family in the September 11 attack. An interesting watch though, to see Adam Sandler in a non-comedy movie.

***

Today I went to watch 'The Curious Case of Benjamin Button'. I really liked the movie, and would have liked it more if not for my full bladder. Throughout most of the movie I was changing positions to better control my pee, I didn't want to miss any part of it and I also didn't want to disturb anyone by leaving my seat. (I was sitting right in the middle you see) But well, I still had to run to the toilet.

Boy was the movie long. Almost a whole 3 hours. Totally worth my RM 7 student price. Great movie, a must watch.

***

Recently, the hype has been on 'Slumdog Millonaire' or 'Q & A' (book title). In fact, it got an Oscar for Best Picture. Got myself the book. Not gonna watch the movie till I finish the book.

Meaningful

***

I would never trade my amazing friends, my wonderful life, my loving family for less gray hair or a flatter belly. As I've aged, I've become kinder to myself, and less critical of myself.

I've become my own friend. I don't chide myself for eating that extra cookie, or for not making my bed, or for buying that silly cement gecko that I didn't need, but looks avante garde on my patio. I am entitled to a treat, to be messy, to be extravagant.

I have seen too many friends leave this world too soon, before they understood the great freedom that comes with aging.

Whose business is it should I choose to read or play computer until 4 am and sleep until noon ? I will dance with myself to those wonderful tunes of the 60s & 70s, and if I, at the same time, wish to weep over a lost love ... I will.

I will walk to the beach in a swim suit that is stretched over a bulging body, and will dive into the waves with abandon if I choose to, despite the pitying glances from the jet set. They too, will get old.

I know I am sometimes forgetful. But then again, some of life is just as well forgotten. And I eventually remember important things.

Sure, over the years my heart has been broken. How can your heart not break when you lose a loved one, or when a child suffers, or even when somebody's beloved pet gets hit by a car ?

But broken hearts are what give strength and understanding and compassion. A heart never broken is pristine and sterile and will never know the joy of being imperfect.

I am so blessed to have lived long enough to have my hair turning gray, and to have my youthful laughs be forever etched into deep grooves on my face. So many have never laughed, and so many have died before their hairs could turn silver.

As you get older, it is easier to be positive. You care less about what other people think. I don't question myself anymore. I've earned the right to be wrong.

I like being old. It has set me free. I like the person I have become. I am not going to live forever, but while I am still here, I will not waste time lamenting what could have been, or worrying about what will be. And I shall eat dessert every single day. (If I feel like it)

***

Read this in an email. This is the second time I've received it. And it came at the right time.

Take Care

Just a while ago I received a message from a friend, "Going to airport now, tata !"

He was back here for almost 3 months, and I only met up with him thrice. Throughout those three times, we barely talked. Worse still, I didn't even initiated any of these gatherings.

Now he is gone, for a year, or maybe for good, since his parents have plans for him to obtain PR and to work there.

It's not like I'm busy. In fact, I have plenty of time. Which I spent watching tv and sleeping. I kept thinking he'd be here for a couple of months, there's plenty of time. But I've soon forgotten all about it, and before I know it, he's gone.

Though I know you don't read my blog, I still wanna wish you a safe journey and to take care. Do well as you always do !

Choices

I always tell myself I should have done something this way or that way, that if I could go back I would have done it differently.

Maybe I should learn to believe that I have made the choices the best way I knew how, given the circumstances, and that makes me, me. That it's because of these decisions that I become me, and I would have it no other way.

Graduation Trip - Finale

I guess I won't be writing about the final two days.

But if you would still like to read about it, you could go to Stories I Could Tell. It's the blog of my travel partner. She offers a rather comprehensive depiction of the final two days.

Verdict of the trip: 10/10 (because I had an awesome partner !) (Haha ... exaggerate a bit)
-Hong Kong is definitely heaven for food & shopping !
-Public transport is supreme !

Disappointments:
-I find some Hongkies rather rude. (And I thought Malaysians are the rudest)
-We did not managed to take perfect jumping shots.
-Didn't get to visit the Venetian Casino.
-Didn't get to try the artificial sharkfin's soup & Portuguese cuisines
-Spoiled a number of pictures due to my sucky photographic skills & unintentional show of my eh hem ... spare tyres.

Miss Moey

In my 16 years of education, I have only met one teacher, that had inspired me the most. Her name is Miss Moey Yoke Lai, my principal of less than a year in Methodist Boy's school.

She gives the most inspiring speech ever. Never have I met someone, who spoke with such enthusiasm, every single time. She is the only principal, that I ever bothered to pay attention to during assemblies. Eventhough her speeches are usually really long, eventhough I had to stand for an hour under the morning sun.

Each time she spoke, I always feel energized to stop procrastinating and to start working hard for my STPM. Sadly though, my renewed energy normally lasts for only a fraction of the day, after of which I tend to fall back to my old self.

The things that she chooses to say, I've never heard any other person say this to us. The fire in her eyes and the tone of her voice, tells me she is really dedicated and determined to bring the best out of us.

For instance, I remember her saying: "It is already towards the end of the year. Have you been revising ? If not, buck up ! "

During her short tenure at MBS, she tried her best to do all she could for the school. For years, the project for the Centenary block had been put on hold, but when she became principal, she actually got Genting's Lim Kok Thay to donate, if I'm not mistaken, RM 2 million to the school, and that got the project started.

One of the most surprising thing I've heard about her, is about how she punishes students. One student, she punished him by asking him to come by her office, where she asked him to separate a bowl full of mixed green and red beans. Now, have you ever seen such punishment ? On TV maybe, but never in real life !

I was just reminded about her, when talking to my friends today. And I couldn't help but to feel inspired to be a little more enthusiatic about everything I do, to strive for the best and to do good to society.

***

When she sings the school song with us, she sings it with enthusiasm too.

mbs.mp3 -

" Go forward MBS
Filled with courage fine
With your colours flying
We will cheer you all the time
And so you go forward MBS
On to victory
Work for the fame of our fair name
Forward we must play the game
MBS ! MBS !
Play up ! Play up ! Play up ! "

Changeling

... the best movie I've watched this year.

Listen now, though I'm no fan of Angelina Jolie, but I think she did a hell of a job.

The movie was absolutely intriguing. I had just finished watching it and right away it triggered me to write this post.

***

It tells of Christine Collins (Angelina Jolie), a single mother who came home to find her son lost. She filed for a police report, and months later they claimed to have found him. She took one look at the boy and told the police it wasn't her son, but the police insisted, in order to negate the bad publicity they had about corruption and their inability to solve cases.

As she continued to insist that the boy wasn't her son, bringing along the press and public attention, the police captain declared her mentally unstable and had her sent to a psychiatric ward.

The story is based on a true story, that happened in 1928. Watch it yourself, I'll stop with the details here, don't want to be a spoiler. Really, watch it.

Twice is enough

About only 3 weeks ago, I reported about my car being nearly stolen.

Yesterday, I found it broken into AGAIN ... The second time in 3 weeks. On exactly the same quarter glass of the window !

C'mon lah, WHAT THE F*CK ? What is it with breaking into my car ?

Graduation Trip (Day 4)

This was officially the boring-est day of all. Firstly because we had a lousy tour guide. (It's that complimentary half-day tour thingy again)

To begin with, it took her like forever to confirm the time and date of our tour. And she did not call to inform us as promised. We had to call her instead. Totally waste my phone credit. It's so freaking expensive ok to even sms overseas.

Secondly, she like tried to skip the tour to the Avenue of Stars. You see, we were telling her that we went to Avenue of Stars for the countdown and she jumped at the opportunity to skip it.

***

At 7.15 am, we were already at the hotel lobby waiting for the tour bus. It was freezing at that hour. First in the itinerary was Repulse Bay (浅水湾), one of the most expensive housing area in Hong Kong. Hell, even Jacky Chan lives there. In the mansion no. 99. (If I recall correctly)



We stopped at eastern end of the beach, where there is a Kwun Yam shrine, right at the beach, which is an uncommon sight.



As it was super cold, we just snapped a couple of shots and quickly return to the bus.



Next stop took us to Aberdeen (香港仔). Now this was where I felt completely cheated. The tour guide just told us to get onto the boat, giving us an implied assumption that it was paid for together with the tour. At the end of the cruise, we had to pay HK $55 (RM 25), for a tour around the harbour, which is nothing to shout about.



Aberdeen is where the famous Jumbo Floating Restaurant is located. This tourist spot has
attracted some of the most famous movie stars.

Boathouses, in which the fishermen live

The next destination was the Golden Bauhinia Square (金紫荊廣場). Located outside the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, it marks the most significant event in Hong Kong's history: the return of Hong Kong, a former British colony to the People's Republic of China.

The above sculpture, the 'Forever Blooming Bauhinia' is a gift from China to mark this momentous day.

Next was a visit to the jewellery factory.


Jet Li

The Avenue of Stars.

After that, we had lunch and then we were on our own. Took this opportunity to have another round of 'Hui Lao Shan'.

All I can say is it was Yum-Yum.

We walked around and then headed to Central. This was because we wanted to go to the Peak. In fact, yesterday we went all the way to the Peak Tram station in vain as the queue was crazy.

Thinking that this day would be better, we found ourselves completely wrong. In the end, we took the taxi up. A short trip really, and it costs less than HK $50. My only regret is that I didn't get to experience taking the electric tram up the hill.

Needless to say, the view was splendid.

So came the end of the day. The remaining two days will be shorter posts, as it was pretty much shopping all the way.

Cowzen Power Gathering 2

2 announcement 1st ...

Announcement 1: Happy Chinese New Year !

Announcement 2: Over Reunion Dinner, cousin Benjamin has announced he's GETTING MARRIED !!!

YAY !!!

***

On the 2nd day of Chinese New Year (yesterday), Malikuti made another effort to get the cousins together. This time we met for brunch.



This was the best gathering ever, we really got to talk and update each other on the current events of our lives. And the best part is, the meal was superb and FREE, compliments of the elder cousins. I love working cousins.

Graduation Trip (Day 3)

The Third Day !

This day was the funnest of all, as we went to Ocean Park !

Ok, by now it would seemed to you that I've been wearing the same outfit in every single picture. Do not be fooled ! Well, actually yeah, I only brought along 2 pairs of jeans and a sweater. But I changed the shirt inside everyday ! I'm not dirty !

My traveling partner, on the other hand, seemed to have brought her whole wardrobe along ! I seriously don't know how many sweaters, jeans and scarves she brought along. Everyday like different style wun !

***

That morning, we woke up a little bit earlier and had breakfast at a nearby coffee shop. I really love their breakfast menu, everything seemed so yum-yum !

Anyways, after that we took the MTR to Admiralty (金鐘). There is a direct bus (Citybus 629) to Ocean Park there. Their buses are extremely efficient. We didn't have to wait long before we got onto a bus.



The journey took approximately 30 minutes. cr4zyb3autiful totally enjoyed herself sitting at the upper deck of the double decker bus.



The tickets per pax cost HK $208, about RM 95. Much expensive than Sunway Lagoon, but it was worth it. C'mon, you couldn't have gone to Hong Kong and not visit Ocean Park or Disneyland !



Upon entering, I must say they have done a good job creating a fun and family-oriented atmosphere. All around me I see eye-catching Christmas decorations with cheery musics blaring in the background. It was certainly uplifting, especially since Christmas is my favourite season of all.



Just as we were happily camwhoring with the decos, doing our jump shots, then came the release of foams, reproducing the effect of falling snows !

It was only for a brief moment, but we managed to snap this shot !

I don't really remember all the rides we got into, but I think first was a theme-based booth called Treasure Palace. Inside are those optic illusion stuffs, like mirror maze, rotating cylinder ... Nothing to shout about. We've got these kind of things back in Genting.

Then we took the Tai Shue Wan Escalator. It was a series of extremely long escalators.

If you have been to Sunway Lagoon, you would have certainly tried the ride where you would slide out from the snake's mouth, with water splashing all over that you'd be sure to get wet. They have this too in Ocean Park.

We did not attempt this ride as the weather was extremely cold. It was winter in Hong Kong FYI. But that day's weather was better, as around mid-noon, the sun's warmth was sufficient to take our sweaters off.

The Abyss

mazwah.blogspot.com

It was like Genting's Solero Space Shot, only much taller. At first, cr4zyb3autiful was a little reluctant to try it. But because of her undying love for me, she decided to give it a try. lol



I must say it was kinda scary. The moment it dropped, I felt like my heart had fell off my chest. And I was screaming, really screaming, that I was oblivious to the screams beside me. All I heard was my own scream.



The Dragon was another ride that seemed scary. I think there were 2 loops that gave us a few seconds of upside down moment. Well, the ride was short, and was not as scary as its looks gave it credit for.

There is one aspect that Ocean Park should be commended for. At rides where you can't bring your belongings along, for instance your backpack, they have a designated shelf for you. And whilst you are on the ride, the shelf would be covered with its installed curtains. That way, it kinda maintains the safety of your belongings.



And then ... well of course a visit to Ocean Park would not be complete without witnessing the Dolphin's performance.

It was a rather short performance, around 15 minutes I think, but was nevertheless entertaining.

Also, we tried the Flying Swing. Nothing special, just like the one in Genting.

However, the ride was rather long. It gets a little boring after some time. But I enjoyed swinging my legs in the air as it spins.

The Ocean Park Tower


Wanted to try this, but the queue was too long and we had very limited time.

Took the cable car which brought us to the other part of Ocean Park. You see the park is so huge that you have 2 separate entrance: The Tai Shue Wan entrance and the Main entrance.

The cable car ride lasted approximately 10 minutes.

The view was spectacular.

After that, we entered the Madagascar house.



And we met Sook Yee Gloria.

And because of cr4zyb3autiful's exceptional resemblance to Gloria, she was asked to be featured in the 'Move it' music video.

That stupid guy in red checkered shirt kacau-lah. Syiok sendiri.

Actually, she was dancing in front of a green screen, and then it was broadcasted onto the tv screen.



Time really flies when you are having fun. Before long, it was time to leave, as we had to catch the last bus back to Central at 4pm.

We headed to Lan Kwai Fong, the popular expatriate haunt in Hong Kong for clubbing, drinking and dining. Didn't visit any pub though, just took some pictures.

Did some jumping shots. Didn't get a good one though.
Yes, you gotta be thick-face in order to take some memorable photos.

Had dinner in Wellington Street, Central. At Yung Kee Restaurant. Yung Kee is famous for its roasted goose. Mind you, prices are not cheap.



Upon entering, nobody bothered to serve us. So we stood there like a stupid fool for quite a moment. And it was not like the waiters did not see us. When we were finally served, I personally feel that they were a little rude.

Poor as we are, we ordered only 2 dishes and shared.

First up was Wanton Mee. It tasted alright, but the soup was not the normal Wanton Mee soup. cr4zyb3autiful said that it had a hint of abalone taste.

Next was roasted goose and chicken with rice. Yes, it may look rather pathetic (especially with that piece of sawi), just like any other chicken rice you could get at a hawker stall, but the roasted goose was really nice, especially when dipped with its specially-made sweet sauce. (or was it sweet and sour?) Considering the fact that I'm no fan of roasted goose, because I feel that the meat tends to be rather rough, that you would need to chew longer before it could be swallowed. But the roasted goose here was tender and nice.



For desserts, we went to Hui Lao Shan. From the outside, it might look like those herbal drink shop that sells 'Guilin Jelly'. But in fact they are famous for their mango desserts. I tell you, their desserts are to die for. Seriously. It tastes as good as it looks.

Coconut milk with bird's nest


OMG, I really really really heart this dessert. Mmmm ... the milkiness.


Mango pieces, mango ice-cream and glutinous rice ball in mango puree

This was cr4zyb3autiful's and my favourite. The desserts were so delectable that we had them everyday since then, trying different varieties till we left Hong Kong.

***

Till my next update.