Painting a Bigger Picture

Hope?

2011-08-04T23:39:00.003+08:00

Virginia Tech. In 2007, a South Korean student went on a shooting rampage and killed 32 people and injured many more. Today, another male suspect was seen on campus and now the campus is on lockdown.

I know of someone who has a friend on the plane on the 9-11 attack. His friend tried to call his family but apparently couldn't get through and called him to pass him the message and then the phone went silent. How does anyone ever recover from that kind of incident?

What is the world coming to? Are people so depressed and disgusted with life that they would rather buy a gun and kill everyone else and then commit suicide after? When you kill someone, you not only kill the person but his/her family's hopes and dreams as well anyone and everyone they know.

I guess this is the world we live in today.

Revival...

2011-07-20T19:35:00.000+08:00

I've decided to revive my blog. Woot. Let's see how long it can last this time.

If Only...

2010-10-15T02:01:00.006+08:00

If only...

Things didn't happen for a reason.

Alls well, ends well.

Everything was perfect.

Everything went according to plan.

All good things come to an end.

Then...

I would not have been who I am today.

I truly believe, that which does not kill me only makes me stronger.

Yes, I will pause and mourn for a while.

But,

Life goes on whether I like it or not.

So, there's no point of stopping at life for too long.

Goodbye my friend, I hope you have a good life.

Because, I know I will.

Lessons in Life

2010-09-17T18:49:00.000+08:00

Random May

2010-05-19T23:48:00.003+08:00

I really have no inspiration to blog at all. I just feel like doing nothing ALL the time now. Random thoughts I guess.

1. Addicted to Leona Lewis' song, "Yesterday".

2. Finally starting to recover from a 12-day flu and a very serious sinus infection that kept me from flying. Missed 2 flights.

3. Went to Japan for a few days. Was sick the whole time. Einstein is super cute. Still did not manage to convince Herbie into getting me a hamster. No worries, still working on it.

4. Caught up with some friends over meals, AWESOME!

5. Woke up two days in a row at 7.30am for training and felt like dying. No idea on how to go back to normal 9-5 jobs. EEwww...

6. As of today, I am certified to work on the World's Largest Commercial Aircraft.

7. Gave up the idea on owning the $3500 bag. I have better uses for that kinda amount of money. Yes, it's still very tempting, but, I know it's the right thing. (Being responsible sucks.)

8. "Glee" is starting to bore me a little.

9. Should I watch "Dexter" Season 5 in Sept since Season 4 was such a major disappointment?

10. There's no alcohol in my system at all in the past 2 weeks. Wow.

RIP Blah Blah

2010-04-26T01:05:00.004+08:00

Rest in peace, Blah Blah. (Isn't that the cutest/funniest name ever?). Blah Blah is my cousin's French bulldog who fell into a 4ft pond and drowned while the family was out for dinner. I didn't even get the chance to meet the little bugger yet. He was only a few months old. Poor thing.

April 18, 2010.

2010-04-18T20:43:00.002+08:00

The day where I'm released from my very hefty bond. I thought this day would never come. After the first year, time just goes by. Celebrated with a lot of booze with my friends. As usual. I should seriously start thinking of cutting down my alcohol intake. Happy, happy day.

March

2010-03-23T00:05:00.003+08:00

Come 19 April 2010, I will be trained on the A380. Which I'm totally not looking forward to. Anyway, as of 18 April 2010, my bond will be officially over. It's crazy how quickly time passes. I still remember my countdown box was over 430 days till it ends and now it states 25 days. Can't wait till it's over which means, I don't owe the company anymore!

Let me explain a little bit about the bond. Total is 2 years and if I quit within that period of time, I will have to pay a certain amount. The contract which is 5 years, states that if I stay for the entire 5 years, I will be rewarded with a certain amount. So, for my case, 5 years - 2 years = 3 years left. But no, I will not stay for 5 years. I'm already pretty bored. For now, my main focus is just to save as much as I can before I leave.

Summing up, March 2010 so far has been a fun, fun month. April, well, I already foresee myself struggling hard through it. Bad. God help me please.

A Year Older. Tomorrow.

2010-02-28T15:43:00.005+08:00

I feel obligated to blog before I turn a year older. Every year, I'll look back and see what I've achieved so far. But this year, it's pretty much the same as last year. Just that I got more comfortable in my job, so it's actually not too bad now. I guess there are a few things which I've crossed out from my "To do list before I die":

1. Pyramids in Egypt.
2. Eiffel Tower in Paris (twice) and visiting the Louvre.
3. Amsterdam. Booze and space cakes.
4. Find a new hobby. Photography.
5. Burj-al-Arab in Dubai.
6. Rome, Milan, Florence, Pisa and my "it" place, Venice.
7. Skydiving.
8. Having the ability to say, "I feel like Indian food. Hence, I fly to India." "I need to buy Abercrombie stuff. Hence, I fly to the States." I don't think many people get to say that unless they are the filthy rich, which I'm not, so, I work to get there.

I do notice that a lot of things from my list includes a lot of traveling which I now have the perfect job to do it. So, my job isn't that bad after all eh? Also, this job has changed my attitude tremendously, and apparently it's a very, very good change from my bratty self.

I'm thankful that my parents are healthy and doing well.

I'm glad that my friends are trying to find themselves, which is what I need to do as well.

I'm thankful that I now own three dogs and the fourth one is on HER way to Japan soon. Can't wait! Even though I don't get to see her often, I know Herbie will take very good care of her.

I'm thankful that I have someone who understands me.

I pray hard for Daphne's second child to be a healthy, happy, bouncy baby so I can spoil him/her.

I shall look forward to Audrey in EVER graduating. (Pun intended)

I congratulate and wish all my friends who are married to have a great life.

I hope that all my single friends will find someone they truly love.

I believe that age is just a number.

Eye Opener

2010-02-18T22:57:00.006+08:00

I was on a flight going to Sydney. Two guys came up with two 3-month old babies (a pair of twins actually) and a 5 year old boy. At first it seemed a little strange, and then we realized the two guys were actually a couple.

At this time and age, I'm sure being homosexuals are not a big deal anymore. Trust me, I'm not judgmental at all. For me, I think as long as you're happy, your sexuality is not anyone's problem, and if anyone has a problem with it, ask them to shove it up their own a$$.

I respect these two men on having such a strong commitment to each other. But, my concern is, when these children grow up and goes to school and sees other children, what are they going to think? What's worse is, children can be really mean and they could be teased or bullied. How does one prepare a child for such situations? I guess the parents has a lot of explanation and preparation to do before such things happen.

Skydiving

2010-02-04T14:02:00.003+08:00

I decided to skydive during my recent trip to Auckland. None of the crew wanted to go, so I went on my own. On the day itself, I came downstairs to the lobby and met 2 other crew from another set who was going, so, yeay, someone to go with.

Me and Anna (a girl I got paired up with for the jump) were the last ones. But, the weather decided to turn bad and our jump was actually cancelled. We took a 2 hour ride there and waited for another 2 only to find out that we can't jump. So disappointed. They actually refunded our money and we had to wait for the guys to burn the CDs for the 2 people before us. Suddenly, the weather cleared up and I went to beg them. Literally, begging. They were nice enough to suit up again, started the plane and it was on!

On the plane, I was a little nervous, but came my turn, and I wasn't scared anymore. I just wanted to jump out of the plane. It's truly the greatest feeling ever. Ultimate freedom. I just can't wait to do it again and again and again...

An E-mail

2010-02-04T12:42:00.001+08:00

I received this e-mail and wanted to share it:

ATTITUDE IS WHAT LIFE IS ALL ABOUT.......

1. SOLDIER : SIR WE ARE SURROUNDED FROM ALL SIDES BY ENEMIES ,
MAJOR : EXCELLENT ! WE CAN ATTACK IN ANY DIRECTION.

2. EVERY ONE KNOWS ABOUT ALEXANDER GRAHAM BELL WHO INVENTED THE
TELEPHONE, BUT HE NEVER MADE A CALL TO HIS FAMILY. BECAUSE, HIS
WIFE AND DAUGHTER WERE DEAF. THAT'S LIFE " LIVE FOR OTHERS " .

3. THE WORST IN LIFE IS "ATTACHMENT " IT HURTS WHEN YOU LOSE
IT. THE BEST THING IN LIFE IS " LONELINESS " BECAUSE IT TEACHES
YOU EVERYTHING AND, WHEN YOU LOSE IT, YOU GET EVERYTHING.

4. LIFE IS NOT ABOUT THE PEOPLE WHO ACT TRUE TO YOUR FACE ........
IT'S ABOUT THE PEOPLE WHO REMAIN TRUE BEHIND YOUR BACK .

5. IF AN EGG IS BROKEN BY AN OUTSIDE FORCE..A LIFE ENDS. IF
AN EGG BREAKS FROM WITHIN...... .LIFE BEGINS.
GREAT THINGS ALWAYS BEGIN FROM WITHIN .

6. IT'S BETTER TO LOSE YOUR EGO TO THE ONE YOU LOVE. THAN
TO LOSE THE ONE YOU LOVE ........ BECAUSE OF EGO .

7. A RELATIONSHIP DOESN'T SHINE BY JUST SHAKING HANDS
AT THE BEST OF TIMES. BUT IT BLOSSOMS BY HOLDING FIRMLY
IN CRITICAL SITUATIONS.

8. HEATED GOLD BECOMES ORNAMENTS. BETTED COPPER BECOMES WIRES.
DEPLETED STONE BECOMES STATUE. SO, THE MORE PAIN YOU GET IN
YOUR LIFE THE MORE VALUABLE YOU BECOME.

9. WHEN YOU TRUST SOMEONE TRUST HIM COMPLETELY WITHOUT
ANY DOUBT....... AT THE END YOU WOULD GET ONE OF THE TWO :
EITHER A LESSON FOR YOUR LIFE OR A VERY GOOD PERSON .

10. WHY WE HAVE SO MANY TEMPLES, IF GOD IS EVERYWHERE ?
A WISE MAN SAID :
AIR IS EVERYWHERE, BUT WE STILL NEED A FAN TO FEEL IT .

First Post of Year 2010

2010-01-25T11:51:00.002+08:00

Can't believe it's almost the end of January already. It's so scary that time just passes like that. I've decided not to make any resolutions. Why bother with it when I know I can't fulfill it anyway. Just take one day at a time and live the moment. Whatever makes me happy and that's all I care for.

Updates on my cousin. He will be starting chemo tomorrow. Chances are not great at all. What kind of news is it when the doctor says you have 4-6 months to live? Life is just unfair. After all his family has gone through and this is what he gets in return. I pray that he gets better and be able to prolong it to at least till his children finishes high school. Which is another 9 years. A miracle it shall be.

Praying for a Christmas Miracle

2009-12-20T00:42:00.004+08:00

I was on my way to work when I got the news that a very close family member of mine has cancer. It was discovered as pancreatic cancer and he was going for surgery to remove it. During surgery, it was then discovered that it had already spread to his liver and the doctor was saying it's not Stage 1. Meaning, it's not good. Chemo might help but the chances are not great. I was so upset I couldn't work at all and got yelled at all the way. Trust me, I'm not upset at all about that as mentally, I was not even there. First time in my life I broke down on the plane. My boss thought it was because of him yelling at me and I didn't tell him what happened. I don't blame him for that at all.

But, work aside, because it means nothing when it comes to another person's life. Especially someone close to you. It was even worse when my mom found out because it was on her birthday. I was upset for my cousin and it kills me when I knew my aunt broke down and for my mom too. My family members are all really close and this news has affected everyone.

I pray for the biggest Christmas gift ever. A miracle for my dear cousin.

Photography

2009-12-03T23:10:00.002+08:00

I went for my very first DSLR basic class today and totally enjoyed it! I've had my SLR for about 8 months now (birthday present from my Herbie) and haven't really used it much as I couldn't get it right, got frustrated and gave up. So, I decided to sign up for the course. The instructor, Ken, he made everything sound so simple and my love for photography is back once again! Even though I have to travel an hour by train to class, it's worth it. So, you should be seeing pretty pictures soon!

I Love Daughtry!

2009-11-13T15:26:00.000+08:00

Gay Moment

2009-11-12T23:54:00.004+08:00

I live on a very low level HDB in Singapore. I can hear everything from my room. People walking by, talking, etc. One day, this heavily modified RX8 decided to park right outside my room window, which I can see and hear very clearly from. White in color, heavy tinting on the windows, relatively large wheels with very shiny rims and a huge exhaust. When I saw the car, I thought to myself, "Hmm..another one of those." I ignored it until the driver decided to open his car door while the engine was running and this song was blasting from the stereo....."I've got all my life to live, I've got all my love to give...I WILL SURVIVE, I WILL SURVIVEEEEEEEE..."

Yes, Mr RX8, I hope you will survive. Survive from the insults that your friends will give you if they ever hear that song playing in your so-called "macho" car.

Women Can't Shut Their Pie Hole

2009-11-05T22:36:00.006+08:00

I suddenly remembered what I read about a few years back. Apparently, most women can't keep their mouths closed when applying mascara. After reading that, I realized that I do it without realizing it. It's weird and funny at the same time.

Come to think of it, women generally can't keep their mouths shut. In doing anything! Most women anyway. Sorry guys, I know the only time you like our mouths open is when we have "something" else in it, but, too bad, you have to endure in everything else as well. The whining, the bitching, the complaining...

Flying through the Year 2009

2009-11-02T22:51:00.006+08:00

Wow, it's November. Almost the end of the year which is flying by just like that. Let's see what I've achieved so far.

1. Still in the same job. For once, I've held a job longer than 6 months. Yeay, at least I broke a pattern there!

2. Exercise-wise, well, still procrastinating there.

3. Eating healthy? Hmm...not exactly.

4. Shopping. Well, cut down a lot on that department. So proud of myself.

5. Sleeping patterns. On my off days, I tend to sleep around 12ish. That's a good thing.

6. Thinking of studying. Maybe another degree or a Masters degree? Part-time of course.

I can honestly say, I grew up a lot. More responsible and more mature in a lot of ways. Being a grown up sucks. Wish I could stay 21 forever. Carefree yet old enough to buy alcohol in the States.

Need Sleep, Need Cold Air, Need Rain...

2009-10-22T19:09:00.003+08:00

For once, I can't wait to go to work. Not only because I haven't been to Sydney before, not because I have two friends that I'll be working with, BUT, because I need to get out of this house. My air conditioning broke down since Monday and the weather has been HELL. Weather.com says its 30c but feels like 38c. THIRTY EIGHT FREAKING CELCIUS. 100F. It's like living in an oven. My housemate said the guy she called won't get here till Monday. I'll prolly crash at a friend's place over the weekend when I'm back. I can't take this any longer! I haven't been sleeping well for almost a week!

Creepy Old Guy

2009-10-02T19:01:00.003+08:00

I was on the train with my friend. While I was chatting away with my friend, an old guy came sat next to me. He was fiddling with his cell so I didn't put much notice on him. Then suddenly, I looked over and realized he was actually taking pictures of the girl sitting across him. She was talking to her friend so she didn't know what was happening. I told my friend and he saw it too. He took a few pictures then fiddled with his phone a bit more. I felt it was really creepy but I didn't know what to do.

A Forwarded E-mail

2009-09-29T11:16:00.002+08:00

My aunt forwarded this e-mail to me, and I think it's pretty interesting so I thought I'll share it.

If a man wants you, nothing can keep him away.
If he doesn't want you, nothing can make him stay.
Stop making excuses for a man and his behaviour.
Allow your intuition (or spirit) to save you from heartache.
Stop trying to change yourself for a relationship that's not meant to be.

Slower is better.

Never live your life for a man before you find what makes you truly happy.

If a relationship ends because the man was not treating you as you deserve then heck no, you can't "be friends". A friend wouldn't mistreat a friend.
Don't settle.

If you feel like he is stringing you along, then he probably is
Don't stay because you think "it will get better"
You'll be mad at yourself a year later for staying when things are not better.
The only person you can control in a relationship is you.

Avoid men who've got a bunch of children by a bunch of different women.

He didn't marry them when he got them pregnant, why would he treat you any differently?

Always have your own set of friends separate from his.
Maintain boundaries in how a guy treats you. If something bothers you, speak up..

Never let a man know everything.* He will use it against you later.

You cannot change a man's behavior.* Change comes from within.

Don't EVER make him feel he is more important than you are...
Even if he has more education or in a better job.

Do not make him into a quasi-god.
He is a man, nothing more nothing less.
Never let a man define who you are.
Never borrow someone else's man.
If he cheated with you, he'll cheat on you.
A man will only treat you the way you ALLOW him to treat you.

All men are NOT dogs.

You should not be the one doing all the bending...
Compromise is two way street.

You need time to heal between relationships...
There is nothing cute about baggage...
Deal with your issues before pursuing a new relationship

You should never look for someone to COMPLETE you...
A relationship consists of two WHOLE individuals...
Look for someone complimentary...not supplementary.

Dating is fun...even if he doesn't turn out to be Mr. Right.

Make him miss you sometimes...when a man always know where you are, and you're always readily available to him - he takes it for granted

Never move into his mother's house. Never co-sign for a man.

Don't fully commit to a man who doesn't give you everything that you need.*
Keep him in your radar but get to know others.

Scared of being alone is what makes a lot of women stay in relationships that are abusive or hurtful: Dr. Phill

You should know that:
You're the best thing that could ever happen to anyone and if a man mistreats you, he'll miss out on a good thing. If he was attracted to you in the 1st place, just know that he's not the only one.

They're all watching you, so you have a lot of choices.
Make the right one.

Wisdom Teeth Op

2009-09-15T21:49:00.005+08:00

I got 3 wisdom teeth removed on 10th Sep. It's the 6th day and my face is still quite swollen and I still can't eat and talk properly. Worst of all, I have a bruise on my right side and I now look like I got beat up. I'm really dying to eat proper food besides porridge and ice cream.

Pros and Cons about my Job

2009-08-27T13:35:00.001+08:00

Cons:
1. Odd working hours
2. Odd eating patterns
3. Odd sleeping patterns
4. Always sick
5. Always tired
6. Away from family

Pros:
1. Seeing the world
2. Meeting tons of people
3. Being independent
4. Earning in a stronger currency
5. Getting to meet the guy who can put up with me. Priceless.

Lesson of the Day

2009-08-04T18:19:00.000+08:00

What I learnt today:

1. Don't apply makeup when you're drunk.
2. Eyeliners WILL poke your eyes out.
3. When slightly high, stay away from cigarette smoke. It makes you sick.
4. Indonesian girls really DO know how to party.
5. Not enough sleep + Alcohol + Aircraft pressure = Death

Growing Up

2009-07-31T01:08:00.003+08:00

My mom told me she had to switch three kindergartens for me before I manage to stop crying and agree to go to school. Apparently, she felt that something was wrong, and that's the reason I hated school and cried so much. (I've always been a crybaby, so, I don't know how she thought that something was wrong.) Finally, she and I found one, and peacefully, I went there till I had to leave for primary school.

Later on, sometime during high school, I was not happy for some reason and she started to look for another school for me. Luckily, a few months later, I was fine and there wasn't a need to go to a new one.

After graduation, I worked in KL. The job was not right for me and I wasn't happy. After complaining for a few months, Dad gave in and asked me to go home. I found another job in Penang which I was quite pleased with. Flexible hours and close to home. I was actually very comfortable until Dad started promoting about a flying career. I didn't give it much thought until some issues came up and I just wanted to leave Penang.

A year and a half later, I'm still doing the same job. For one time, I stuck around longer than six months. Recently, after meeting a few people which made my life hell, I felt like quitting and going home again.

Then it hit me. Everytime something bad happens, my parents are always around to pull me out. Be it kindergarten, relationships, or jobs, they've always been there. I'm sure if I told them how upset I am, they would ask me to quit and go home. But for once in my life, I want to stop running. Why quit just because of a few assholes I meet along way? Why shouldn't they be the one quitting and stop making other people feel miserable?

I've decided to make a stand. If someone is rude to me, I'll be very, very polite to them. I have to at least show you my parents thought me manners. If you're mean to me, I won't be mean back. I'll just ignore you. "An eye for an eye"? Nahh...What goes around comes around. It will eventually bite you in the ass for being that much of a pain.

Peranakan

2009-07-17T00:45:00.006+08:00

I realized I don't know much about my culture. The Peranakan culture that is. My grandmother had all these pretty pictures wearing a see through top with hand stitched designs and of course something underneath that with sarong and beaded slippers. Everything was handmade. A lot of gold jewelry and hair accessories. My great grandaunt told me that she actually kept a set for me from head to toe for my wedding. Doubt I can ever fit in it though as they are all really petite and I'm exactly the opposite of petite. It is very cool though. There are a few requirements to fulfill to be a nyonya that people tend to ask:

1. Can you speak Malay? -Yes. (Pass)
2. Dad's from Melaka. (Pass)
3. Family scattered around Penang and Melaka. (Pass)

But the ultimate question is:

Can you cook?
I can eat? (MAJOR FAILURE)

Need to start taking cooking lessons from my aunt before the culture dies with me. Sigh.

p/s: No, my dear Herbie, I did not manage to poison myself from my cooking a few days back. HA! You promised if I learnt to cook, you will eat it! Muahaha.

RIP Michael Jackson

2009-06-26T14:28:00.009+08:00

Received the most shocking news today when I came online. Such a sad day. The King of Pop passed away at the age of 50. Sigh. The even sadder part was he was going to make his comeback in less than 3 weeks.

Found this video of him and the Princess of Pop performing. He has such great stage presence.

Am I getting older?

2009-06-06T13:33:00.003+08:00

I prefer wine to hard liquor.

I no longer know what the latest songs are or who are the new upcoming stars.

I prefer watching CNN to MTV.

I no longer know what's showing on the Disney channel.

I prefer a live band than some DJ spinning around.

I can't recall names of singers and actors or even the movie titles.

I start to worry bout what's going to happen in the next 5 years because I STILL cannot decide what to do.

Shoe shopping is no longer on the top of my list.

I start going for regular blood tests.

My immune system is at rock bottom.

I no longer want to own a Lamborghini. I mean, of course it'll be great to own one. But I feel totally irresponsible to own a gas guzzler. Not like I can afford it, but let's say owning anything that has a V6 engine. I don't think I need it. The car that I currently want is the new Honda Civic. I think it's pretty and fuel efficient.

I recycle.

My Big Circumference Pt 2

2009-05-12T18:25:00.003+08:00

Exactly a year ago, I posted a blog about my big ass waist, so, exactly a year later, I had to take measurements for my new uniform. I dreaded the whole ordeal. I prepped myself and told myself not to scream at her if she attacks me again.

I walked in, and she was in a good mood .Weird . Let the measurements begin. And to my surprise, she looked at my old measurements and *drumrolls* I lost 2 inches on my waist and apparently I lost weight overall compared to my old measurements. She was actually complimenting me. Wow. I was shocked, more about her than myself. But, at the end of the day, I'm happy! Yeay!

S.E.X.

2009-04-28T18:06:00.005+08:00

In regards to Audrey's post about sex, I've decided to write a follow-up about it.

List of birth control options:

1. Diaphragm or cervival cap.

2. Condoms.

3. The pill.

4. The patch.

5. Vaginal contraceptive ring.

6. IUD (Intrauterine device).

7. Sterilization.

WARNING: "Withdrawal before ejaculation" is not effective.

Quote from Familydoctor.org,:

No method of birth control is 100% effective. The risk of getting pregnant or getting an STI MAY outweigh the pleasure you get from sex. The only way to make absolutely sure you don't get pregnant, get someone pregnant or get an STI is not to have sex at all.

And my point of this blog is? You tell me. I have no clue.

Man vs Woman

2009-04-22T23:07:00.002+08:00

How to impress a woman:

Compliment her, cuddle her, kiss her, caress her, listen to her, buy her gifts, protect her, wine and dine her, surprise her, support her, respect her, stand by her, hug her, go to the ends of the earth for her.

How to impress a man:

Arrive naked....with beer.

My Cool Mom

2009-04-02T16:18:00.004+08:00

Got called up from my standby for a KL turn. Can't complain I guess, it's the shortest flight we have. Lol. Anyway, I have a few minutes to kill till my cab is here, so I shall tell you about my coolest mom in the whole wide world. Right at this very moment while I'm being lazy and whiny, my mom is hiking up Mount Kinabalu, the tallest mountain in Malaysia aka the 20th highest peak in the world. My mom is too cool. I think I should seriously start working out. Damn it.

Vaykay!

2009-03-23T22:57:00.007+08:00

I was on my long annual leave and boy, was it fun! Not working totally rocks! I was back home for over two weeks and was spending time with Herbie in Korea for a whole week. Loved every minute of my vaykay! It was a very life changing one. For one, no more glasses or contacts.

It started with me back two days before my birthday where coincidentally, my parents weren't there. I was home alone. Thank God for friends. I ended up having a great birthday chilling with my friends over a beer. Am quite tired of the whole clubbing scene, for now.

Kelvin, Looi, Des, Aud, Steph, Joy.

Almost everyone.

Leon, Gin, Des, Hong, Aud.

Thank you everyone for coming. I had a lot of fun that night.

After that, the first week of March was what I call, "Health Week". Started out with an eye checkup, then my first annual blood test, gynae check, dentist and last but definitely not least, my LASIK procedure.

Korea. I still don't know what the big hoo-ha about with this country. I do agree the food is amazing, and the history is interesting, but to me, that's about it.

1. I can't fit into half the clothes or shoes as the people there are so teeny.

2. People keep speaking to me in Korean. I don't understand Korean and am definitely not one!

3. French people are rude. Koreans are too.

4. Do not eat at food stalls. They give you bad food poisoning. (Of course, it's just me talking, it's up to your better judgement)

But all in all, despite the pain and crap coming out of me all night, it was great spending time with my dear Herbie aka Hole.

Puppy

2009-03-02T11:57:00.008+08:00

Boy grows up.

New chick moved in.

Boy meets girl.

A few months later...a SUPER DUPER CUTE FAT LIL PUPPY!

Sick, again.

2009-02-28T11:08:00.004+08:00

Traveling from a very cold and dry place back to a very hot and humid place, what do you get? INFLUENZA. Argh. Kill me now.

Freezing Korea

2009-02-20T20:40:00.002+08:00

Going to San Francisco tomorrow! In Seoul now and it's freezing cold. The weather hasn't changed one bit since 3 days ago. Coming to Korea twice in a week and in this weather. Yucks. BUT, am really enjoying the food though. It's sooooo good. Just checked the weather forecast. It's:

-6c. Feels like -11c.

I know I've endured much worse in the States, but, coming from a 30c country is not exactly helping.

You know it's bad when...

2009-02-12T22:56:00.008+08:00

1. An American has to be a translator between you and a Chinese guy.

2. Your favorite Chinese song which you thought was a love song actually turned out to be a break up song instead.

3. You crack your half boil egg and accidentally dropped it into the sink and the second egg was overcooked and those were the two eggs you have left.

4. You buy lots of weird food to try from around the world and when you bring it home, it looked too weird and you're scared to try it so you leave it till it expires and then throwing it out.

5. Ten months ago, you moved into an empty room with two suitcases and ten months later, you hardly have any space to move around without bumping into something.

6. You label your phones, "No.1", "No.2", "No.3", and "No.4". And three months later, you're thinking about "No.5". (BUT I won't, I promise!)

7. Your ever so lame best friend stares at you funny. In any situation.

8. You drag yourself out of bed at 7am, showered, got ready to attend some talk AND THEN someone called and said that you don't have to go and you're now wide awake and blogging. ARGH!

Gong Xi Fa Cai!

2009-01-25T18:41:00.002+08:00

Like to wish everyone Happy Chinese New Year. It's the year of the Ox. Let's all stay healthy, be wealthy and party!!! For those who are spending it at home, lucky you! Appreciate it! For those who are working, *sigh*, let's think of it as, 'Young people nowadays need to work hard and save for the future.'

Take care everyone! Let's have an awesome year of the Moomoo cow!

Blahs

2009-01-14T22:48:00.003+08:00

It's mid-January! Time does fly when you're flying. Hehee...Mr Yeap's gonna roll his eyes at me again. I'm still tagging my bags '2008', oops. Just had 'death' for dinner. 'Death' is actually rojak. Kennon officially named it 'death' because he can't stand the smell and the taste of it. Well, Hole, guess you have to live with it eh? :)

Sitting on the couch watching American Idol Season 8's first episode. How interesting is that! I actually have nothing to blog about. Basically blogging for the sake of blogging.

Oh yeah, I feel my brain deteriorating. Any ideas on what short courses to take besides languages?

My 2009 Resolutions

2008-12-22T14:09:00.004+08:00

I've not been blogging for a month! My bad. I know I should have so much to blog about, but, I don't know why my mind's completely blank when I'm in front of the computer. Guess it's just me.

December 2008. The last month of my crazy year. Full of ups, downs and confusion. That reminds me, "That which does not kill you, only makes you stronger." And I still believe very much in that. I should now write a LOGICAL and ACHIEVABLE New Years resolution list:

1. Exercise and stay healthy. (Herb says that I'm the weakest person he ever met seeing the amount of vitamins I take, obviously not working!)

2. Stop fretting over every single thing.

3. Be happy and optimistic. Even though the world would eventually end some day, but, today's not the day.

4. Save at least 40% of my pay every month. Gonna be a tough year next year.

5. Seriously think about buying and owning my very first property investment in '09. It's speculated that by the 3rd quarter of next year, it's a very good time to buy.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year everyone. To my best friend, Merry Happy Birthday.

"Life must be understood backward. But it must be lived forward." - Soren Kierkegaard

Christmas 2008, Dubai

2008-11-25T21:44:00.006+08:00

December, ahh, Christmas. I love Christmas. When I was a little girl, I always wanted a white Christmas. Then I went over to the States, I got what I wanted, two whole freaking white Christmases, but, it's without my family. Guess what? I hated it. From that moment on, I knew what I wanted. Who cares about white or blue or red Christmases? I just want to be with my family but, work is work for now. I'm a Christmas Catholic, so they better have a church in Dubai or there goes my annual church attendance.

Smile, smile and smile

2008-11-25T21:09:00.006+08:00

I wouldn't say that I love my job, but I do enjoy some of the perks that it comes with. I think one think that I learned is, people are interesting. Yes, I get to meet people from all walks and all industries. But, I'm talking bout none other than my own fellow colleagues. I fly with different people every flight, and that keeps me on my toes all the time. Imagine, meeting an average of 12 people per flight multiply that about 3 flights a week. That's an average of 36 people I work with in a week. So, you see all kinds of attitudes and personalities. Forces one to adapt quickly. No wonder everyone keeps telling me, if I can survive this job, I can survive any job in the world. Because let's face it, people are the hardest to deal with and in this industry, first impressions are the most important and it's the only impression you'll get. What the heck.

Today in History

2008-11-07T00:01:00.003+08:00

5 & 6 November 2008. The first two days of my job which I've not been called up for flight. Wow.

Lahore, Pakistan

2008-11-02T16:25:00.005+08:00

Two more days till election. Not that I can vote or anything, but, go Obama!

I was called up for a flight to Lahore on Wednesday and the flight back to Singapore was on Saturday night. When I heard "Lahore", I thought to myself, "Where the heck is that?" So, I googled it. Pakistan?! What am I going to do in Pakistan?!

I took out my big ass cargo bag and started packing. Cup noodles, Milo, biscuits, bottles of water, 3 full seasons of DVDs, 4 other movies, fully charged Ipod, Macbook and gym gear. I was determined to survive the 4 days 3 nights in Lahore, Pakistan.

What I got out of the flight was totally unexpected. I went out with the crew to a bazaar. (Which got me a major culture shock because of how they live.) Went drinking with the tech crew and cabin crew and had long meals with everyone. I ended up not watching a single DVD, did not eat or drink any of my drystores, occasionally listening my Ipod before bedtime and was on my Macbook only to talk to Kennon. BUT, I managed to go to the gym! (Am so proud of myself!)

All I want to say is, this was one of those flights where you don't care where you fly to. It may not be Paris or Milan, but it's the people who count. If every flight were to be like this, I'm so sure nobody will ever quit being a crew (and not forgetting how fat everyone would be eating the way we ate.) It might not be Paris or Milan, but this will definitely be in my top 10 best flights ever.

At a bazaar.

460: KHI - LHE - SIN (29 Oct - 2 Nov)

Top 10 Bad Pickup Lines

2008-10-28T17:15:00.009+08:00

Number 10

"Great legs, what time do they open?"

Number 9

"You must be tired because you've been running through my head all night."

Number 8

"Hey girl, what's up? Guess what? It's your lucky day. Out of all the girls here, I picked you to talk to."

Number 7

"That shirt's very becoming on you. Of course, if I were you, I'd be coming too."

Number 6

"Can I buy you a drink or do you just want the money?"

Number 5

"Can I have your phone number? I seem to have lost mine."

Number 4

"Do you believe in love at first sight or should I walk past again?"

Number 3

"Excuse me, I think you owe me a drink." [She says: "Why?"] "Because when I saw you from across the room, I dropped mine. It was a rum and coke and I'm [your name]."

Number 2

"Is your last name Gillette? Because you're the best a man can get."

Number 1

"Do you come here often?"

Source: www.askmen.com

Out of all these lines, I still think this is the best one:

"You're a stewardess? Wow. My wife's sister-in-law is a stewardess."

That's not the best part. This is:

"I should introduce you to her someday."

Can't wait. Get a life.

Best Places

2008-10-08T02:23:00.006+08:00

A lot of people have been asking me, "Since you travel so much, which is your favourite place by far?"

So, here goes (in no particular order):

1. Cape Town, South Africa: The sea and beach is just so beautiful. The sunset, super gorgeous and the wines, cheap.

2. Male, Maldives: Everything here is just so beautiful. Perfect place to relax. Watched the sunrise and sunset. Water so clear you can see the fishes swim by.

3. Incheon, Korea: Well, there's nothing much there, just someone. Lol. But then again, there's the food. The food is amazing!

4. San Francisco, USA: I miss the States so much! Cheesecake Factory, Chipotle, Mexican food, Banana Republic, A&F and of course, DSW!

5. Fukuoka, Japan: Sushi and sashimi. Enough said.

6. Zurich, Switzerland: The land of green grass, mountains and cows. So nice to be out of the city scene once in a while.

7. Paris, France: Good place to go sightseeing but not exactly for shopping. The Euro rate is too high!

8. Christchurch, New Zealand: The land of green grass and mountains as well. But not many cows, more sheep. Golden kiwis, yummm.

But, as expected, the best place to be in will definitely be Penang, Malaysia. Hahahahhaa...where my family and my dogs are. Miss them too much!

Random Thoughts

2008-10-01T22:43:00.003+08:00

Just realized how long it's been since my last update. Oops. Apparently, as Mr Yeap says it. I can't complain. I still remember I was chatting with him weeks back and he was asking me what was I up to. I told him I was at my bf's place pre-gaming (basically, drinking) and going clubbing later and the next day I was heading for Paris. I remember him saying something like, "Mabel, your life is damn happening whether you like it or not." So I guess I can't complain saying it's boring and all. To some it's very happening, but it's also tiring at the same time.

I should have tonnes to write on my blog but somehow I can't think of anything.

Just got back from India. I've done so many Indian routes that my dad now picks up the phone and calls me "Ms India".
Casey is officially the queen of the house and Caesar gets so pissed off that he will jump on the couch and taunt her since she is small and can't get on the couch.
My room is in a complete mess. I've never seen such a mess in an OCD person's room before. That's probably the reason why I'm having such a bad headache.
Wisdom tooth coming out. Looks like growing diagonally and might need surgery. F*ck.
Haven't been home for almost 2 months. Sigh.

Encik Mayer

2008-09-05T15:58:00.001+08:00

John Mayer. Not a big fan of his but after ripping Soon Yang's cd and listening to it, it's not too bad. Good music to chill over a beer. Not bad at all. Alamak, got flight later. Lazy.....But then again, I can't wait for Sunday!

Weltklasse, Zuerich

2008-09-04T14:23:00.008+08:00

Zurich. I have been telling everyone I want to move there. It's really very pretty. But then again, the more places I go, the more places I would want to move to. Guess I'll be pretty busy moving everywhere eh? Hahaha..Anyway, the coolest part was this.

I was trying to go online at the crew lounge with my friend Elaine, but somehow it wouldn't connect. So, we decided to go to the lobby. The lobby seems really busy since the day we got there and we didn't know why and did not bother to ask. Anyway, it looked like a Students' Lounge. While going online and reading blogs, this guy started talking to us, thinking we were laughing at him but we were actually laughing at a blog posting. So we got to talking and we found out that, these people were actually OLYMPIANS FROM THE TRACK AND FIELD! They came straight to Zurich after Beijing. No wonder they were all so fit and good looking. GOSH! They've been in our presence for 2 nights and we didn't know!

In order to make up for lost time, Elaine and I managed to get some autographs and pictures with them. We were waiting for Usain Bolt but got tired of waiting so we went back to our rooms.

With Trevell Quinley: Long jump

The lobby aka Student Lounge.

With Kenenisa Bekele of Ethiopia

The games was on the night we were leaving for Singapore. That's not the worse part. The worse part was, there was a huge party after the games and WE WERE INVITED! Imagine, partying with the best sportsmen and sportswomen in the world! WTH!

On the bus, Elaine and I was so upset to leave hoping that our flight will be canceled or something. Well, at least we managed to get to know them and actually added one of them on Facebook!

This is the website to the games in Zurich:

http://www.weltklassezuerich.ch/en/index.html

My Babies

2008-08-21T01:29:00.008+08:00

Mr Yeap sent me a pic of my dog to me just now. Oh, how much I missed him. Shwinnie! Actually his name is Gershwin but somehow it became Ah Shwin later on, Shwinnie. I shall now write about all my babies.

Baby No. 1: Gromit

Got him from the pound. His story is actually very sad. His owner just decided one day that she doesn't want him anymore and dropped him off. What kind of a person does that? But the good thing is we picked him up the very next day, so he's considered one of the luckier ones. But a few months later, while walking him, I accidentally dropped his leash and he ran away.

Baby 1 1/2: Wallace

He's a fat lil hamster which I can't find a decent picture of him cause he's always moving around. Anyway, he's fat and runs around the apartment in his plastic ball and freaks the hell out of Gromit.

Baby No. 2: Gershwin

After Gromit ran away, I didn't want to have another dog. Ever. But, ended up getting Gershwin. It was pretty scary cause we never met him before. I saw him online, talked to the breeder and got some pictures and then decided to buy him. No idea if I would actually like him or not. He flew in a plane from Kansas and we picked him up from the airport. He was so teeny and whiny. I didn't like him at first cause he was too noisy. But as time passes, I was so attached to him. He attended doggy classes and goes to the dog park from time to time. I love him to bits. But, I couldn't get a job in the States and that was when I had to come back. It was too troublesome to bring him back and I didn't want him to be locked up in the plane for so many hours and upon arrival, quarantine.

Baby No. 3: Caesar

This one is a KL boy. His grandfather is some champion for some dog show competition so he's in the champion breed line. To me, he's the champion of being blur. First time I saw the fella, he was stepping all over his poop. Yuck. He then went back to Penang and is now living with my parents and my parents spoils him like crazy. And nope, he's not very close to me but he's my mom's boy. I call him mummy's boy.

Baby No. 4: Casey

She's also from KL. She's one strong fighter. Her story is she actually has 2 brothers. All 3 of them were born premature and she's the only survivor. She was so teeny when she was born but she made it. She's now bullying Caesar and she's the queen of the house. This one sticks to my dad like glue. This one is daddy's girl.

As for me, I got no more status. It has all gone to the dogs. Hahaa...just kidding. I love all my dogs.

Hannah - Four months old

2008-07-31T00:13:00.005+08:00

For those who don't know who this is, she's Daphne's lil girl and also my goddaughter! Just some updated pics of her..

Shark Attack

2008-07-25T21:45:00.005+08:00

Finally, an update to my blog! I shall blog about my most recent trip to South Africa. Four tech crew and four cabin crew decided to go for a shark tour since it was in season. I joined them because I thought, "What the heck, I can visit Cape of Good Hope anytime, but shark season is not all year long."

The transport picked us up at the hotel at 5.30am and picked some other people up on the way. The drive took 2 hours. We got there, had some breakfast and was briefed about the safety procedures. Then we walked to our boat...

The view was amazing.

The boat 20 of us went on.

The ride took about 20 mins to the middle of the sea. The moment the boat stopped, I knew I was going to regret it. The sea was very, very choppy and the wind was blowing strong and cold. One by one, I see people getting seasick. And that was within the first hour.

Wet suits were loaned to us and 4 people dived into the cage when sharks were sighted. I wanted to go into the water until I saw a lady puking her guts out next to the divers' cage and I could see the puke floating towards the divers. Also, everyone who climbed out of the cage went to the other side of the boat and puked. YUCK! Not forgetting the water was like 8 degrees.

One of the 6 sharks that we saw. (I probably saw 3-4. I was too busy looking at the horizon to avoid getting seasick.)

We saw a whale too!!

The last picture was taken when we were on land. I was never this happy to step on a flat ground. Out of the 8 of us, 4 of us didn't get sick. Luckily I was one of them. But I was very close if I was at sea any longer. K, if you're reading this, I don't think I'm up for the cruise thing in Sept. I've had enough water for the rest of the year.

Flying. In the air and on water, hopefully.

2008-06-28T10:56:00.006+08:00

Leaving for Shanghai tonight. Kinda packed. Excited? More towards slightly stressed out. What I'm more excited is about wakeboarding!

For those who don't know what wakeboarding is:

Wakeboarding is a surface water sport which involved riding a wakeboard over the surface of a body of water behind a boat. It was developed through a combination of water skiing, snowboarding and surfing techniques.

The rider is towed behind a boat; typically at speeds of 18-24 miles per hour depending on water conditions, rider's weight, board size, and most importantly, the riders personal preference. (Source: Wikipedia.com)

Of course the girl in the picture looks good. I'll probably fall flat on my face in the water and drown, putting the blame only on myself as I never bothered to lift weights or do anything to gain upper body strength. Also, my balancing sucks big time. But, I'll give it a shot.

Father's Day Weekend

2008-06-15T19:37:00.005+08:00

Sitting around on Sunday evening. Basically I did nothing all day. Woke up, sat in front of the computer, walked around the house and now sitting in front of the TV. I have no idea what to blog about besides knowing that I should update my blog. So, I shall make a summary of my week.

To be honest, I can't remember what I did exactly all week. Guess it's a good thing since I am not allowed to blog in detail about what happens in training or in the job. Anyway, this was what happened:

Waiting for our table at Cartel on Friday night.

Waiting for the lady to go get my new Tumi luggage at DFS with William and KT on Saturday afternoon.

Outside MOS waiting for the rest to switch clubs. From MOS to Attica on Saturday night. Or in proper terms, Sunday morning.

What I've been doing all day today. Recovering. Oh, Happy Father's Day, daddy!

My First Roster

2008-06-05T22:07:00.002+08:00

My roster is out and I'm super excited! I'll be going to Shanghai and Taipei for my 2 SNY flights. My first solo is to Brisbane, Aus. I'll have a Penang turnaround and then.....CAPETOWN, S.AFRICA! I'm so, so excited! I heard Capetown is beautiful!!! Diamonds, baby!

My Big Circumference

2008-05-18T12:54:00.007+08:00

I have nothing to do but to blog as I'm waiting for the 2 of the most slowest guys in the world. Keep changing the time till I also stress d. Yesterday switched from 7.30pm to 8pm. Today switch from 2pm to 1pm to 1.15pm and I have a feeling, to 1.30pm. Make up your mind lah dudes! Hmph!

Pam was wondering if I blogged on the day of my uniform fitting itself. Hehee..I didn't. But since I'm here might as well. The last time I went for measurements, the seamstress was nagging me about my size. And on Thursday, this was what happened:

Instructor: Your waist very big hor?

Mabel: Yeah, I know.

Instructor: I think you should go on a diet.

Mabel: I can't and I don't care.

Instructor: Why don't you care bout your own body?

Mabel: (In my head I was like, "I lose weight also I don't lose my waist, so what's the point? Cry every night ar?")

Then I gave her the best answer I could think of.

Mabel: Cause if I don't eat, I'll die.

Then she gave me this look and I think she now thinks I have an attitude problem.

After my turn was Pam's turn. The way the instructor commented, don't even know if she was complimenting her or insulting her. How weird.

The next day, we visited a nursing home. And I realized, there are bigger problems in the world than my big ass waist.

Time Flies When You Have No Time At All

2008-05-09T21:43:00.004+08:00

I've been bugged to update my blog. So, here goes nothing. It's Friday night and I'm blogging. Sad rite? Actually, for once, I'm a bit happy to be home on Friday night. Or any other night. Six days week are tough and after a hard day's work, I'm glad to be staying in. I'm supposed to be studying since my finals are going to be held in less than 2 weeks. Bah!

Training so far has been tough. Not as simple as I thought it will be. And it's definitely not a brainless job. I'm impressed on what I've learned so far. No regrets so far. Really glad that everyone in my batch are nice. Was very worried about they bitching and the politics but so far so good.

I haven't even been to Orchard yet after being here for so long. Seriously no time at all. Fen invited me to so many club outings but I've yet to go to even one club. By the time I finish class on Saturday evenings, I'm so tired I just want to go back and sleep. Which is what I have been doing for the past weekends. Argh...I'm hoping after foundation, I'll have more time. Or maybe after my mentored flights. Or maybe solo flights. Aiya..next time lah. Apparently, with my ID, I can get into Zouk for free and discounts at lots of places. I'm so gonna go shopping when I have the energy!!!

Starting to get used to the walking. Guess I've built up the muscles walking around. In heels as well. Oh well, I guess it's a good thing.

Oh, I might take up Akido. Pam, (my colleague and friend) is interested in it and I guess I could use a lil self defense. Hmm...

Blogging in Malay

2008-04-28T21:46:00.002+08:00

Since I got challenged by Eve to write in BM, I shall take up the challenge.

Pada hari Jumaat, saya cuba mandapat satu tempat duduk di atas kapal terbang untuk balik ke Pulau Pinang. Selepas kelas, saya pergi ke lapangan terbang dan "lucky enough" saya dapat balik. Apabila tiba, kawan baik saya, Ketupat, tidak dapat mengecam saya kerana rambut saya diikat dalam "bun" dan saya memakai makeup. Dia ketawa tak henti-henti. Sungguh "insulting".

Pada hari Sabtu, Nick yang baik hati mengikut saya ke Prangin Mall untuk masuk stok produk rambut and lain-lain. Saya beli banyak produk hingga itu salesgirl "thought I open hair salon."

Pada hari Ahad, saya pergi "mani and pedi". Kuku saya sungguh merah. Takutnya. Rambut juga hitam-hitam belaka. Boleh jadi "goth chick" sekarang. Selepas itu, saya pergi menonton Tupat, Nick dan Kenny main pingpong. Boring juga lah.

Screw it. I'm tired d. Writing in BM sucks big time. But I still think my BM is better than Eve's.

In Pain

2008-04-24T19:58:00.004+08:00

Haven't found the time to update my blog. Been too busy walking everywhere. Heheee...My legs and my feet are killing me but I don't feel like I have lost any weight. Shall step on the scale and see. I can't really talk much about my training just in case I get into trouble. The company has very strict rules about blogging. Weird but true. But I guess I can say this, I belong to the "warm" family. Means, my eyeshadow is brown instead of blue. Woot woot! Love it!

I love love love my car. I miss it so much. Oh my love, when can I stop walking everywhere?

Seriously, I can't feel my legs! Argh!

Singapore

2008-04-15T20:59:00.006+08:00

Day 1:

Got to this hotel called the Grand Mercure-Roxy. It's pretty convenient as opposite the hotel, there's this mall called the Parkway Parade and banks are nearby. I didn't do much besides buying a prepaid card so that I can start SMS-ing again. And guess what? The service provider I'm using currently gives out free SMS's. For every 5 I send, I get 10 free. In bout half an hour, I already have 30 free SMS's. Even my colleague thought I was crazy. My knee is swollen and cut from the night before. I banged my knee on the side of the bed and am now suffering for it.

Day 2:

Woke up at 7.30am, took a cab to the training center for briefing. Then took the MRT to go downtown to get my measurements done for the uniform. The seamstress kept telling me that I'm fat and should lose weight. She kept repeating it. I was like, "What the hell you want me to do? Get a lipo ar? You think I wanna be fat one meh?" Sad case I tell you. Then we had to take the MRT to the nearest station near the airport, and had to take a bus. Me and Noelle waited and waited and was wondering why the bus never came. Then we found out we were waiting at the wrong place. Managed to get on the bus and the bus stop was in front of the mall. Opened a bank account then went back to the hotel. Call me spoiled, but, I HAVE TO TAKE PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION!!! ARGHHH! Anyone has any idea how much I have to spend if I drive my car here?

Leong Family's New Addition

2008-04-09T23:14:00.005+08:00

Caesar will have a new friend soon. Welcoming, Casey! (I haven't decided on a name yet, but that's what I came up with so far.) She's only 3 weeks old and will come home when she's at least 3 months old. Please give me suggestions for girl names starting with the letter "C"!

Pictures of my Goddaughter

2008-04-04T15:47:00.002+08:00

Welcome to the world, Hannah Phung.

My New Status

2008-04-01T10:02:00.003+08:00

I received one exciting message when I woke up today. So happy, that I have to blog about it. I am now a godmother to a beautiful baby girl, Hannah Phung who was born on 31 March 2008. Congratulations to Daphne and Joe. Don't worry, lil Hannah is definitely going to be so spoiled!

The Not-So Traditional Family

2008-03-30T21:20:00.010+08:00

My family went for Qingming festival aka Tomb Sweeping festival on early Saturday morning. Initially, we were supposed to meet at the graveyard at 6am. But, seeing that we're going with my maternal family, timing is usually pretty off. We got there around 7.30am and we were the earliest to arrive. Not knowing how to read Chinese and no pictures on the tombstone did not help at all. My mom and my aunt were just walking around aimlessly as I just stood there and waited. No point walking around as I have no idea too. My mom finally managed to recognize her Chinese name and started pulling out the weeds.

Around 8am, the rest of the family started to arrive and the praying ceremony begins! While waiting, we have kopi-o and kuih and talk and talk and talk. What my family does best.

Tomb Cleaning

Praying ceremony begins

My cousin Liang was targeting the roast duck while I had my eye on the grapes. Soooooo hungry....Finally, the time has arrived...

PARTAAAAAYYYYYY!!!

"Families are like fudge...mostly sweet, with a few nuts."

I LOVE MY FAMILY!

Two friends that knew each other since they were 5

2008-03-20T16:01:00.007+08:00

This is what happens when one lame chick went to dig up her old pics and found her kindy pic. And the other, seeing her friend put it up, she also went to put it up. Too cute rite!

We've known each other for about 18 years! Woahhhhhh...

Prepping for Singapore

2008-03-19T17:13:00.002+08:00

I found a roommate this morning! Hope he's not a slob. Zee, (I just decided to nickname you Zee cause your initials are pronounced that way anyway) if you're reading this, I warn you first! Beginning to feel the excitement already. We shall go apartment hunting, Zee!

The Camera Hunt

2008-03-14T15:17:00.015+08:00

Since Gin was blogging bout his new cam and I'm at work, bored as usual. Here goes the story bout my new cam as well! I was deciding between:

1. Sony T-300 (Going to be released soon)

It's so sexy and slim right? Beautiful...but, I really don't like the touch screen. It's so inconvenient. Smudges and all, yuck!

2. Canon IXUS 960IS

No offense to Gin, this one a bit chunky but it does have 12MP.

3. Canon IXUS 860IS

Only 8MP but it has the wide angle lens.

My final decision......*drum rolls*

THE CANON IXUS 860IS!

I'm having a lot of fun with the color swap and color accent functions. Yes, I'm lame, but I was using a Sony before this and it does not have a whole lot to play with! No complaints so far, so, that's a good thing, cause I can be such a bitch at complaining!

To go or not to go?

2008-03-10T16:54:00.002+08:00

Elections are over. Stock market, not doing so well. My boss just lost RM35k and he's not happy bout it. Me? Just sitting in the office, having a flu and my whole body's aching and I feel like a 60 year old grandma. Restless.

Guess I might be going to Singapore after all. Shall read the contract first. Don't want to be bound to something for 2 years without knowing anything. Things to prep before I leave:

New glasses, contacts.
Dentist and gynae appointments.
Facial.
New camera (since the bastards stole mine!)
Get in shape!
Last but not least, spend as much time as I can with my family and friends.

The funny part is, if I leave in April, I officially stayed in Malaysia for 1 year after the States. Hmm...

In my 22 years

2008-02-29T12:18:00.002+08:00

I get an extra day to be 22! Woot woot! Let's see what I've got so far:

Got a degree.
Currently on my 2nd job. Could be going to my 3rd soon.
Has 3 sons. Gromit, Gershwin and Caesar. And Wallace the hamster.
Shoe and bag crazy more than ever.
Lose friends and gain even more.
Independence.
More mature?

Chap Goh Meh (15th Night)

2008-02-22T11:22:00.006+08:00

The last day of Chinese New Year for the Year of the Rat. Also known as "Chinese Valentine's Day".

I went to Beach Street for the mandarin orange throwing session. "Tim Kam". Sadly, to see what our culture is coming to, sacrificing culture for convenience. Last time, the oranges where supposed to be thrown at the sea and these oranges were to be "caught" by the males. But, now, they build a tent, and you just throw it over the tent and there will be a net where all these oranges would be diverted into a little pool of water which will be collected then sold again. This tent, has four sides: Wealth, career, love and health. I had 3 oranges and there were 4 options. How, how? I ended up picking wealth, career and love. Health? Well, out of oranges. Hehee...I'm sure it applies for all.

Then my mom and my godparents wanted to go to the temple to pray. So I just followed. I can't pray so I just walked around. Seeing people of all ages there made me proud to be part of such a culture. We are so different compared to anyone else. Our history dates back to thousands of years and it's wonderful to see that people are still trying to keep it alive although a lot has changed due to convenience sake.

And then, I saw a bunch of guys carrying a pomelo to be thrown into the little pool. Yes, a POMELO. It was so funny. Then I heard the emcee saying, "Only oranges are allowed in the pool, not pomelos." Then, 15 minutes later, I heard the emcee again. "Only oranges are allowed in the pool, NOT BANANAS OR POMELOS." The crowd started laughing. We stayed to wait for the fireworks which were supposed to go off at 10.15. We waited till 10.30 and left. People, be punctual, please!

(Would take pics if I had my camera which was freaking stolen from me. Die, you bastards, DIE!)

My Valentine's day curse

2008-02-15T13:04:00.012+08:00

Valentine's Day. I think I'm cursed. I don't think I celebrated Valentine's for the past 2-3 years. I remember when I was in the States, everytime when there's something planned up, I was either very sick and once, I was in the ER. Scary huh?

I decided to break the curse yesterday. And yes, again, this year, there was something wrong with me. My gums are so swollen that I haven't been able to eat proper food for the past 3 days. Trust me, I'm losing weight but I'm not happy bout it. Anyway, back to V-day.

I have not one, nor two but FIVE dates. I should be the happiest person alive right? Hahaa..I am. Anyway, me and Eve wanted to eat at Ingolf, but as expected. It was fully booked. The conversation went something like this:

Mabel: Hello. I would like to make a.....
Ingolf: We're fully booked.
Mabel: Maybe later in the evening?
Ingolf: Nope. Fully booked. *Hangs up*
Mabel: *WTF!*

So, obviously, we can't eat there. Then Eve said we should go for either Korean or Japanese when, I, Mabel, the genius, came up with this Japanese restaurant for some reason. (I've been there only like 3 times). I called and made the reservation and the lady was very pleasant. She asked me if I wanted the table or the room. Of course, I took the room. It sounds way cooler having a place to ourselves.

Me, Han Hong and Wee Jian were early, Eve's entourage was stuck in traffic, so she told me she was going to be late. We sat down at 7.30 and the server did not even bother to take our drink orders. We had to keep flagging the server and by the time they took our order, it was around 8pm. A few mins later, Eve's gang showed up and added more orders. Me, Hong and Jian were still starving but we refuse to order anything anymore. By the time we got done with dinner, it was around 9. The bill took another 10 mins. I wanted to take pictures to remember this memorable night. But the servers are missing as usual, so we had to make do with whatever props we have in the room to place the camera.

The food was bad, the service was bad, the conversation was super duper weird (Can't believe we were debating bout that over dinner. Thanks to Han Hong), BUT the company was great and we had a great laugh. (Me and Wee Jian bugged Han Hong all the way back. Jian: I think Han Hong's pissed). Definitely a memorable night. Would love to do it again.

The girls. (Eve's cousin, me, Eve)

The guys. (Han Hong, Kenny, Wee Jian)

Attempt 1

After several attempts. This is the best.

Why the rich gets richer, and the poor gets poorer.

2008-02-04T12:02:00.000+08:00

After working outdoors for a while, I get to see a lot more than sitting in an office. For instance, books can always teach you how to earn a living, but not how to live your life. Money can always buy you things, but not happiness.

When working on a construction site, I realized how hard those workers have to work. Physically, having to carry very heavy and dangerous materials around under our very hot Asian weather. Having to work so much, yet, not earning a whole lot.

Then, on the other hand, we have the white collars. People who are college and university graduates, who sits in their fully AC offices, sipping their coffee and delegating their job to the whole world. Of course, not forgetting about how underpaid they are for doing such a tedious job.

So, how do the rich get richer? Well, they can afford a better standards of living for their children. Namely, better education. Through better education, the next generation would get better jobs and so forth and so on. As for people such as construction workers, whatever they earn, they use it up for basic necessities such as food and bills and not much is left for further education for the children. Thus, their children might end up doing what the parents have to do. Getting low-paying hard labor jobs.

My point is, do not complain how low income your job is, because I realize we do not have a right to do so, because through experience, the money would get better. Suck it up and do it. Just be thankful that we are lucky enough to have parents that works hard to ensure we have a proper education and living. I can't imagine myself working on a construction site or at a factory doing the same thing over and over and over again.

First blog of year 2008

2008-01-31T21:54:00.000+08:00

Finally got my blog set up. Been wanting to set it up for quite some time but am too lazy. My friendster one still exists but have problems using it, so let's see if I could do this differently. Let's see, month of January of 2008.

Wow, don't know where to begin. So many things happened. I think so far in my 22 years, this is the month that everything happened at the same time. But it truly made me believe in the phrase, "That which does not kill you only makes you stronger". And yes, I believe I'm stronger and a lot happier.

Let's not discuss the cons, and focus on the pros. As some of you may know, I went for a Cabin Crew interview for SIA and got the offer. I already went for my medical and am currently waiting for my offer letter. If I accept the offer, I'll probably be in Singapore by March and will start the training for 4 months and the journey begins. But, I'm not sure whether I should go for it or not.

Pros:

Traveling everywhere.
Shopping!
Money's pretty good.
Meeting tons of people.

Cons:

The contract is 2 years and if I do break the contract, I have to repay S$ 13,600.
Dealing with outrageous people and long hours.
Away from family and friends. (Not that much of a con since most friends will be going back to their respective countries to study or work).
"Flight attendant". To a lot of people, it's considered as an overpaid waitress.

Any comments/feedbacks would be great!