ADDICTIVE

....another Saturday night at Starbucks....


Talk about net freaks. I think I'm fast becoming one.

Connection at home has been giving me a headache the whole day. Customer Service is off for the weekend. By 8 p.m. I've become so restless without my internet fix. So I dragged my sister, armed with a notebook each and headed for Uptown (parking is such a breeze at night). We were dead bored anyway.

Hoping that tomorrow will be a different story.

Hang on. What's this? Just another half an hour of battery life left?????

Just my luck. :P

THANK YOU


Thank you Kak Azah.

It makes much more sense now.

Lots of love.

I LEARNED FROM THE BEST


Since I was a kid, I've always looked forward to visits to the clinic/hospital. This morning was no exception.

I get enticed by the smell, the environment, the people. As I walked through the clinic's door, it was as if I was in a time warp. The interior was exactly how I remember it would be for a majority of clinics I've been to way, way back. The counter, the walls, the finishing, the steel filing cabinets, the door grill!

I got myself registered and soon after, I was told to go to the first room to get my blood and urine sample. The first question the nurse asked, "Did you have breakfast today?"

It hit me! I was supposed to fast! S%*t! How can I forget the number one rule of thumb for a blood sample to be taken! All I know was I arrived 15 minutes early this morning and seeing that mamak just next door, I didn't realize I was about to commit a big boo-boo by anyone clever enough to know better. Duh! Me and my tummy.

"Well, y..e.......ssss.....s....I kinda did have breakfast."

Oh, the horror on her face!

"Ok, let's see what the doctor has to say. She'll decide if whe still wants to take your blood sample. Most probably you'll have to come back. Next week."

Short of saying that I screwed up over half a roti canai and tea.

I mean, it obviously was my fault but I still want to partially blame the HR I called yesterday and the nurse I asked for directions from for not reminding me that I'm not allowed to consume anything 12 hours before the test. Darn!

Next up: Urine sample.

Man, it was much harder than I thought! Off all times, it had to be today that I didn't have the urge to pass. I mean I have done this before but it was all over the place! With that quantity, I have to carefully aim; but I just don't have enough ammo, needless to say I don't even have the gun! I managed to collect a pathetic quarter of the sample cup. I passed the mini cup through the window and crossed my fingers.

The nurse was mumbling something I didn't quite understand at first. Then she asked me to proceed to the next floor for an eye check, weight and height measurement and to see the doctor for further examination. (Nurse put me as a rough 155 cm "now you'll at least be taller in the charts" while giving me a cheeky grin. Yeah? Like that's going to help. Why can't I be 165 cm then?)

The doctor was nice. But the dreaded question surfaced nonetheless.

"You fasted this morning right?"

"Mmmm, actually I ate." (sheepish smile)

"But I had very little...."

Yeah, like a loadful of carb and fat.

I was bombarded with "What exactly did you have? What time was it?" and a few other questions I had to obligely answer.

She later explained that she will proceed getting my blood sample anyway, if there was any abnormality or ambiguity, then they'll call me back. But the sugar level should be down by now. Thank goodness!!!

X-ray came next. After changing into the white robe, the nice old man asked me to stand against the plate and spread my hands to the side. He was adjusting the height of the plate, then looked at me. "I think you'll have to use the stool, dear. Sorry".

"It's okay. I know I'm short". There goes my 165 cm.

And lo and behold, in between that, nature calls. I rushed to the washroom. Then rushed down to top up for my parking spot. Came back to do the lung test.

The nurse explained how I was supposed to do it. Take a deeeeeeeppppp breath and blow as hard as you can for as long as you can through the tube. Okay, can I have a demo?

And demo she did. I was impressed! Whoooaaaa! Lady can really blow! Now I got it, after 6 attempts. The nurse gave up on 78. She was coaching me starting from a 75. "Come on, you can do it!" Same feeling as being with a personal trainer. And this was just to test my lung capacity!

"I guess we'll just use this result then", she said at last. Pheewww!

She then told me I had to go back down to the first nurse to get more urine sample. What???!!!! Not enough? But I just went!

All in all, I did have fun. I laughed a lot when I was with the nurses; of my foolishness for the most part. All the other patients seemed so tensed and serious. People say nurses are a pain, for me, if you want them to be nice to you, you have to show some compassion too. After all, they are still human. Just smile. Don't matter if they don't smile back.

After saying my thank-you's and goodbye's, I left.

COFFEE & TV


5.50 p.m. - Getting my desk cleared. It's been such a mess the past week.

7.00 p.m. - Book browsing at Konikuniya KLCC. Purposely skipped gym today, breaking away from current routine for once. A walk may do me good during this time-off phase.

8.15 p.m. - Catching up on my reading at San Fran KLCC. Finally finished Lydia Teh's 'Honk! If You're Malaysian'. Personal favourites:

# 21. When The Lights Turn Red
# 28. Manglish Very Short One
# 31. Confessions Of A Blog Addict
# 43. World Cup Rules For Men

Chicken Casserole left me feeling cheesy. It's just too cheesy! Should have asked for a bigger cup of cappuccino.

10.10 p.m. - Wheezing through traffic, speeding on the highway. Just remembered that I ran out of cat food this morning and just bought a fresh pack this afternoon. I hoped they haven't starved to death.

10.45 p.m. - Blogging, web surfing / organizing folders and files. Got to have it done quick. TV's showing The Hitchhiker's Guide To The Galaxy. Still wacky as ever.

Tomorrow a.m. - medical check-up.

CROSSTOWN TRAFFIC


Good things do come in small packages. So does the bad.

It's such a big roller coaster ride these days. I wonder how I will be able to handle the vertical drops.

A phone call can make you cry. An e-mail can make you smile.

A letter can make you feel ecstatic. It also can make you realize what you'll be missing.

A party can be a celebration, at the same time a farewell bid. 'Nice knowing you, take care, don't forget us'.

The next few days will be for best wishes, soul-searching, reorganizing....and a lot more.

Hopefully I'll see you again at the end of the tunnel.

PRAISE YOU


Newsflash: I got the job!

I'm getting my letter today.

A pat on my back.

break

THE VOICE WITHIN


Eventually I have to reach an ultimatum.

Whichever path we choose to take, I hope I'm going to be strong enough to face the consequences.

It has long dawned on me that a final decision is duly expected mostly on my part but singing along to an S Club 7's horribly sappy tune yesterday evening really hit me hard.

If I find myself singing to Britney one of these days, that's it.

How much longer should I cling onto hope? Will it require me to realize too late how inhumane I've been to drag a person deep into an endless maze of uncertainties before we decide on a resolution?

*I need a hug*

PAPER CUT


"Girl, why don't you start making cards again?"

Never thought about it, that's why.

See, there was a period when I started making and selling greeting cards. I was most active after I finished studying, whilst spending my days non-productively as a couch potato, I had this idea I might as well generate some side income (that time I thought it would be brilliant). I didn't get much on profits at the end of the day; I bought the materials as and when I need them, I tend to pick the more costly ones (especially the boxes for my 'card in a box' designs) for their quality and I only sell them to friends. Mostly, I just did it for the thrill. An extension from a hobby.

"You can sell them at the weekend booths."

Never thought of it that far either. So much easier to visualize at this point. I have to come up with thousands of samples for that. And they have to be good, really good. I'll have to start looking around for suppliers; luckily the choices are abundant these days to pick from. I jokingly told my friend that I'll hire her to help me man the booth.

"Or better still, promote them on your website!"

Okay, even if it does go through, there'll be money exchange involved that can lead to complications. I'll also need to consider the cost for delivering / mailing.

Will I even have time for all that?

At least somebody even did ask out of the blue, so I guess that's a positive sign ain't it?

Don't be surprised if you see an ad on my money churning business (Haha, I wish!) on the net one day! ;)

I'll stick to my imagination for now. But you know where to reach me right? Hehehe....

ANGELS AND GIRLFRIENDS

....to quote

1. Zar - "beneath all that gelebeh, there is a keras"
2. Som - "we are the fungi"
3. Meredith Grey - "the point is, we cannot help who we fall in love with"....


What a way to end the week.

I had another great time with the girls yesterday. Wawa, Dylla, Raz, Sal, Zar and I met up and had lunch at One Utama. We stayed a few hours there; if it wasn't for Wawa having to leave for work, Raz, Sal and Zar rushing to attend Maya's KL reception and myself with another commitment, we would have hung around longer. So we decided on a game plan that will see us meet again in another month; attending the Asasi Reunion in April. That way, we'll all have no excuse not to go, as it has to be paid for. We'll also try to convince the other girls to show up. Because we'll need a bigger group to be anti-social during the event not to be too obvious! ;)

So we didn't spend enough time together, girl's talk and all. Later that night we found ourselves back together at Starbucks. Sal and Zar are flying back to Sabah the next morning so what the heck. I was a bit bummed about something so it was also a good way to ease my mind. We stayed until the Manager himself came to clear our table and tell us that they were closing for the night. Our cue to head back home. That was 1 a.m. I don't remember the last time I drove home alone in the morning.

Being emotional and refusing to show emotions is very hard. I don't know why I do it but I don't know how to handle it otherwise. Sometimes it helps, sometimes it doesn't. To me, I just don't like to get caught up too much in pondering about the what ifs and the whys. That's when the misunderstandings surface because until I'm ready, I don't talk about what's bothering me.

I've been told so many times not to keep things to myself. I try.

I spent my morning at the bazaar today. Sunny and hot.

....all I need is....but don't we all?

Such an intense episode of Grey's Anatomy today.

WHERE YOU WANNA BE

....Update....Kak Azah has posted her first blog entry today. ;D....



Ever wondered what a triple scoop sundae can do to a girl? Turn her into an unrecognizable drooling monster, that is!

Beware of pure indulgence.

Here, I'll trade places with you....(Not!)

I don't mind sharing though ;) Just please ask for another spoon.

KARMA


Darn, I'm so hungry right now.

There's a guy who recently started to make an appearance at the gym downstairs. He's so famous that he's currently the hottest topic of the town I even found that he's mentioned in another friend's journal!

What's the fuss? Nope, he's far from attactive or charming. Miles away. He wears red sneakers that stand out in the crowd and sports the ol' skool hairdo. He's been joining classes back to back, taking his place right in front of the room and obviously he needs a bit of help in body coordination and more. (Check out the moves!) Yet, he tries real hard to follow through. And he doesn't care.

Now that's what I call guts. Hmm.....maybe I should say he's got balls ;)

Because the rest of the world could be very, very mean sometimes.

But, karma has it's way, I got a taste of mine already....

One fond memory I'll have when I leave.

CUPID'S CHOKEHOLD


My horoscope for the day reads:

"There are interesting people heading your way. Make sure you are at your charming best."

There's a boost to my current quest of further expanding my network of 'interesting people' ;)

Now how to work on the charming bit?

Other than that, the main topic for the week is LOVE: love lost, love complicated, love hanging, love eat, love confused, love yourself, love hate, love will have it's way. Beats me how I got myself into this, but I offered myself to be Miss Matchmaker! I sure don't have experience in that department; Gosh! I don't even know where to start!

My other horoscope reading for the day:

"Don't be too concerned about what others think. Volunteering for something that will help your community or a cause you believe in will bring good results. Get serious about a partnership or making a commitment."

So, wish me luck!

Angel needs to play Cupid now. Scratching head already.

YELLOW SUBMARINE


I've been tagged.

So, the objective of this 'game' is fairly simple. Anybody who got tagged has to list down 7 weird things about themselves in their blog besides stating the rules clearly. So basically, it's a bare all exercise for the rest of the world to take pleasure in. If you notice that people start looking at you differently (why do I have the feeling that people will avoid me after this), don't get too alarmed, it's just because they haven't been tagged!

In order for this to carry on, after completing your list, you'll have to tag 7 other people, list down their names, leave them a 'you are tagged' message or something in their blog/website and don't forget to get them to read yours.

My List:

Freaky Stuff # 1

You know how you should look the person in the eye when you talk to them? I have this tendency to look down after first engaging eye to eye. Not THAT far down. I look at their teeth! It's strange but I just cannot help myself. It's a bit rude, I know, sorry. Normally it won't be obvious to the other person (I'm too short for you to notice what I'm doing). After that I start to wonder how this person manages their oral hygiene. I have met a few individuals who are naturally blessed with a perfect set of whites (I just love them straightaway). Others I can tell have put extra effort in maintaining them (very good) while the rest, well, I'd swear that I'll just look only once but a peculiar habit dies hard. Doesn't matter how crooked they are, as long as they're taken care of. Myself, I brush 3 times a day (taking at least 3 minutes every time), floss & gargle. If I miss one, I start to get nervous. When I eat something I know is smelly enough it stinks a kilometer away, I'd feel so uncomfortable that I'll run to the nearest convenient store to get breath mints. Otherwise, I'll just refrain from talking too much.

Freaky Stuff # 2

I've got this thing with numbers. I don't like odd numbers, unless they're a multiple of 5. A string of numbers has to be in proper order too. I have to put my stereo volume at 10 or 14 or 6. Never in 13, 7 or 19. I don't care if it's a bit too loud or too soft. I look at number plates on cars all the time too (which is also why I don't like things on my dashboard; too much distraction). I wince when I see 6266 or 7591; I'd imagine my preferred combination that would be 6226 and 7595 respectively I didn't like the number on my old car, but I didn't have a choice so I couldn't change it. I'd just constantly remind myself that 4527 is the same as 99. Weird eh?

Freaky Stuff # 3

A lot of people perceive me to be the silent type. When I start expressing myself, they raise an eyebrow because they're not used to my sudden antiques. Never be afraid to step out of your comfort zone, it keeps you sane. There's this stretch of road to my house that's so bumpy, I'll imagine myself in a rally and start moving my body in every direction, like being thrown back and forth in the seat. Other road users will give me that peculiar look. Strangely, there are also times when I manage to convince my passengers to do the same. It's fun! Really!

My sister is still confused whether I've gone bonkers when I do it.

Freaky Stuff # 4

I only sleep on my side. I can never sleep peacefully on my back. One reason is because my knee hurts if I lie on my back too long, the other reason is because it'll block my airway, I'll snore/snort and I'll wake up from my slumber instantly.

Freaky Stuff # 5

I can twist my tongue. I haven't met anybody else who does it. I'd be delighted if I did. It's not the same as rolling the tongue; that I cannot do.

Freaky Stuff # 6

I'll always look for an excuse to get a new pair of shoes. Even no excuse is an excuse. I haven't found a good pair of red pumps yet. Half of the shoes are still kept neatly in their respected boxes, those I wear once in a blue moon or I bought because I won't like other people wearing them instead of me. There are a handful that I wear everyday until they're worn out, and then I'll be shoe hunting again. What bliss!

Freaky # 7

In my life, I've tried eating a snake, a frog, ulat mulung (details here), among others (things I get to experience when I go back to my grandparents' kampung). But I'll never, ever touch a rabbit.


So there, I'm done! Do they register as 'odd'?

And finally, here's a list of people I'm tagging.

1. Sal - coz she wasn't in the previous list
2. Raz - coz she wasn't in the previous list
3. Kak Azah - I like to see her frown on this ;D
4. Nick - it'd be interesting to see him write something different in his journal
5. Klev - just to torture him
6. Sam - coz he's a lecturer, so it'll be fun
7. Jos - coz she talks about food and posts all those yummy pictures everytime and it makes me hungry!

I'm evil. But I didn't start this ok?

Come on peeps, be a good sport. Take your time and enjoy.

FEELS JUST LIKE IT SHOULD


Sal, Raz, Zar and I were down in Johor Baru over the weekend to attend Maya's wedding.

It was a long drive for Raz and I but we didn't mind. We spent the whole evening catching up with Sal, whom we haven't seen for years. Ultimately (and naturally) we ventured into the topic of love (or the lack of it) and marriages (since the three of us were all singletons; luckily we had each other so we didn't feel lost at the event). The irony of it all was that the headline of next day's paper was "Decline In Marriages", where only 23,880 marriages (among non-Muslims) were registered in 2006, half the number throughout the five preceding years from 2001 to 2005. As if somebody was eaves-dropping on our conversation. I guess I'm one contributing figure to the statistics ;P

....Maya at the night of the akad....

....the bride & groom....

....Maya & her sisters....


....Miss Sally & I....and the bunga telur....that's my mom's kebaya I'm wearing, is that considered a vintage?

.... Raz & Sally at the reception....

More pictures on my Multiply.

OUTSIDE

Can you see anything in this weather?

My oh my .... it just keeps on raining.

Good thing it does though, they darn switched off the aircond! Again! Autosaving mode?

BROWN SUGAR


Making pancakes on a Saturday morning.

Breakfast complete with toast, eggs sunny side up or scrambled, baked beans and chicken ham on a Sunday.

Spagetti bolognaise or roasted chicken Thursday night.

Vermicelli a.k.a. bihun and chicken soup on a Monday.

Lamb stew (happy to say that it's my own try and tested and a hit among friends :D)

All self-prepared and cooked in my humble little kitchen.

Trifles and puddings!!! *sigh*


Fast forward a few years later.....

Last Sunday night I had French toast for dinner.

Last night I ate a big bowl of Koko Krunch (with whatever was left in my milk carton, fast approaching it's expiry date anyway) and half-boiled eggs.

I barely have anything in the cabinet except for dried rosemary, oregano, cloves, cinnamon, peanuts, black and white pepper, sesame seed, thyme, dried mushrooms (need to dispose those) and five spice. A few boxes of cereal, crackers, instant noodles and an old can of Campbell's (may need to throw that away too).

There's ice-cream in the fridge that I haven't touched and a bottle of rootbeer looking all alone.

Talk about a healthy diet. I would be listening to my mom's long lecture if she knew.

Appetite is slowly coming back. A good sign.

Cooking is a very good form of therapy. Especially when you have everything within reach. Even better if you have a kitchen like Jamie's or Nigella's....*double sigh*. I'd probably sleep in the kitchen if I did.

I better stock up this weekend.

DON'T CALL ME BABY

....call me when you think of me....


"Okay, I slept with her. ARE YOU HAPPY NOW?"

Edward Burns should know better.

He got whacked in the face by Cameron Diaz. Twice.

LOL ;D

That was very hilarious. Side-splitting.

That was a scene from The Holiday. The reason why Cameron's high-flyer character Amanda decided to end it all. Why she flew a few thousand miles right the next day to seek solace (in a stranger's house, by the way) and eventually fell for Jude Law (who wouldn't?????). Of course, the Jude Law in real life is a total opposite from the Jude Law in reel life, if you believe the tabloids. So in the movie, all ends well, even the adorable Jack Black met his match in kind-hearted Kate Winslet.

So guys, the very least, try not to make the same mistake as Burns. He admitted to adultery. Please, there's no need for further insult. She may well know that you've committed the crime and has solid proof of it.

"Okay, I've put the towel in the basket. Are you happy now?"

"There, I washed the dishes. ARE YOU HAPPY NOW?"

Which, coincidently, reminds me of another movie. The Breakup. Women want men to want to do something, even when technically they ARE being forced to. Sounds complicated? Yes, it is.

Vince Vaughn: "Here, I bought you the lemons"

Jennifer Aniston: "I wanted 12 lemons for the centerpiece. Why are there only 4?"

Vince Vaughn: "Why do you need 12? Can't you do it with 4? It's just a stupid centerpiece."

Of course, Jennifer was furious. She hasn't started cooking for dinner where guests were expected to appear at the door any minute. She has no time to mull over why it is so hard to buy 12 stupid lemons as clearly requested. (By the way, the dialogue above may slightly differ from the movie, point is, he DID show up with a small bag of lemons, 4 or otherwise, I don't remember the exact number)

A more tactful answer, if you don't want to bother finding those remaining lemons (ask the neighbours if you have to) is "Did you say 12 lemons honey? I'm sorry. (Get ready to give those puppy eyes). I must have misheard you. Here, here. Let's think this out. I'm sure we can come up with something (else)". Jennifer will forget everything, smile and think that you do care after all. She'll even return your not-too-big-a-favour afterwards too.

The power of the word "WE".

Oh, and Honey, I've helped pay your bills.

(You know that I'm swamped with work in the office but I still do it. Are you happy now?)

I'm also very sleep-deprived already.

OTHER SIDE OF THE WORLD

....Happy Birthday Lalua....


Over the sea and far away
She's waiting like an iceberg
Waiting to change
But she's cold inside
She wants to be like the water

All the muscles tighten in her face
Buries her soul in one embrace
They're one and the same
Just like water

The fire fades away
Most of everyday
Is full of tired excuses
But it's too hard to say
I wish it were simple
But we give up easily
You're close enough to see that
You're the other side of the world to me

On comes the panic light
Holding on with fingers and feelings alike
But the time has come
To move along

The fire fades away

Can you help me
Can you let me go
And can you still love me
When you can't see me anymore

The fire fades away

WHAT CAN I DO?

....Happy Birthday Farrah....


Here's a little story about my physical being that never seem to go away.

It will normally be initiated by something like this:

Friend 1: "You know, you should eat more, dear. Remember what happened during that book expo."

Friend 2 by now puzzled and eager to hear more.

Friend 1: "Hey, tell her about that incident! She's not heard about it right?"

Friend 2: "Yeah, what happened during the book expo?"

When I first told the story to my friends, they were rolling on the floor laughing. I thought it was silly too. Nowadays, the story has lost it's charm but people still remind me about it. I don't know why.

So, there was a book expo held in the city one day ages ago. I decided to go since I had nothing better to do then. The place was packed, hot and I was exchanging sweat with everybody I brushed with along the corridors.

The exhibitors were handing out flyers to every passerby. Because of the high volume of people turning up that day you have to stop in your path now and then to give way to others. One particular booth I stopped at was a supplier of school books.

"Miss, would you like to buy books for *SPM?"

I just smiled at him, declined and told him I wasn't doing my SPM.

I was about to move on, when he quickly got out another flyer, "Well, we DO have *PMR books!"

"Well, I'm not taking PMR either."

"Oh, really?"

Yes. Really. I was in varsity that time. I just explained to him quickly and thanked him.

Whooopsss! He looked apologetic. I said it was no big deal.

I was amused. Is it that I didn't dress like I should be? Everybody loves a comfortable T-shirt, jeans and sneakers. Not going to stear away from that. In a way, it was almost like a compliment. I wasn't actually offended or blaming the guy for trying to be of help and promoting his stuff. An innocent mistake that can be simply remedied through training on how to approach people more tactfully.

Of course I didn't (attempt to) grow any taller in the next few days and I don't think I would be anymore anyways.

I know I can only eat what my body allows, although I must admit I love food. I have a small tank. In any case, I just know that it's going to be a problem when there's an eating challenge in The Amazing Race.

Speaking of The Amazing Race, anyone fancy being my partner?


*PMR and SPM are 2 major exams in Malaysia's education system. You have to pass your PMR in 3rd form before you continue secondary school and sit for your SPM in 5th form.

KNIGHTS OF CYDONIA

....must. go. watch. 300....


Old photographs will never fail to stir mixed emotions in you. My albums from yesteryear were doomed to forever collect dust if not for an important assignment given to me recently. I have a whole stack of them; a lot of the photographs I personally took, so there were many without me in it. Those days, photoes need to be developed from film rolls in order to be viewed.

Here's the deal. For a friend's wedding next week, we have agreed to prepare a scrapbook to be presented to her on her wedding day. Everyone is supposed to contribute at least one page to that book, and it has to be done from scratch, giving a personal touch to it. The content basically must be something that will always remind her of us besides congratulating her. The page must preferably be accompanied by a photograph of us together with her. At the end, the individual pages will be collected and nicely bound together.

There lies my problem. I don't exactly have a 'proper' picture with her. There are the group photoes but you either have to squint to notice I was actually there or I was unrecognizable from the oversized T-shirts and tattered jeans (tried going for the grunge look to no avail)

I was flipping through the albums and tried putting names to the more unfamilar faces. Obviously, some names I don't even remember anymore, like the girl from Greece who was my pen pal. For others, like Annuar who never fails to celebrate our birthdays together (we were born one day apart), I wondered how they are all doing now. Then there's Don from class (a great individual) who passed away a few years back, may he rest in peace.

For whatever reason, I started to take out some of the pictures. At the back of my head, I kept telling myself that I have to get them scanned. I know friends who would like to share them.

Earlier today, I had the opportunity to spend time with another old buddy from school. This time, while having a good chat with her, more names cropped up from long ago. Naturally, the usual questions were also asked: where they are now, what they're doing, whether they are married, are those two still together etc. etc. Time flew quickly.

I continued flipping through the album, then out of the blue, Vanilla Ice's classic music video Ice Ice Baby was aired on Channel V. Oh. My. Gawd! I couldn't stop from giggling the whole way while watching it because I just couldn't believe I actually sang and danced to that once upon a time ago in a faraway land. I even knew the lyrics by heart! But hey, The Fresh Prince of Bel Air danced the same too, also once upon a time ago in a faraway TV land. He was cool then and still is now, only difference is that the next generation will probably only know him as Mr Will Smith, so there's nothing to be ashamed of, is there?

Though, I think I've made a big fool out of myself by actually revealing that piece of info.

A lot of reminiscing the past today.

Silly dance and song aside, I still haven't found a nice photo to use. Time for Plan B.

THESE BOOTS ARE MADE FOR WALKING

....got a wedding to attend next weekend. Any good ideas for a gift?....


A few friends have pointed out that they are actually confused reading my blog because there are 2 authors; moi and Cyique, the hot & sexy mama who's practically a Dubai permanent resident by now. (It IS hot sometimes eh?) ;P

I've invited her to write in my blog because she's my sister (not from the same parents obviously), we've been through the lowest of the lows and the most ridiculous moments together (remember the birthday cake and the open trunk incident?). It's also too damn expensive to call her :)

Cyique, what's the latest on Skype? Are you allowed to use it there?

Tips:

1. Entries in Bahasa Melayu / Malay (BM) are most probably written by her. Since leaving school, my BM's so rusty I can't write to save my life. I'll attempt to but you may end up being dead stiff from all the waiting instead (you've been warned). Maybe I'll give it a try one day, but promise me not to make vulgar jokes out of it, although I'll have hysterics with you if it's a good one. Plus, the DBP can't seem to agree on the right grammar and sentence structure (or so I noticed). I think it has changed so much since my SPM. What was correct then may not be today.

2. The 'posted by' is an obvious clue. Ok, may not be obvious after all. It's right at the foot of the entries beside the 'comments' and 'links' links. The teeny-weeny bits. Yes, that one. Now why am I explaining this?

Another friend suggested I use markers. That's a great idea I'll consider.

I'm doing some minor maintenance to my blog right now so I've temporarily removed Cyique from my authors list. She'll be back with a vengeance, don't worry. Once I get everything sorted out.

Oh, another tip: I don't have a baby.

That cute little girl belongs to Cyique. I can only wish.

I've been receiving positive feedbacks for this blog, thanks peeps, for taking some time for us. Cyique, thanks dear & kudos to you too.

WHO'S THAT GIRL

....to all the bootylicious and superlicious being out there....Happy Women's Day....


I'm not good at dedications. So here goes.

1. To the women in my family; My mom, my grandmom(s) and my sister. For the wisdom, the love, the shoulder to cry on and the best of times. I miss mom's cooking.

2. To all the women around the world who made a difference throughout the decades; Those who fought for their rights and their family's rights, punished and died doing so, those who relentlessly gave out their hearts and souls to reach out and help the less unfortunate and those with sheer dedication to their work and profession to better themselves and the community.

This one I specially dedicate to the late Princess Diana and Mother Teresa.

3. To my friends; the moms, the teachers, the engineers, the officers, the doctors, the shopaholics, the sports enthusiasts, the travelers, the dreamers, the drama queens ;P. For becoming my sisters, my pillars of strength, partners in crime and for the big group hugs when least expected (pure feel good energy!)

4. To the future female generation; Discover your potential and live the best.

5. To ME; The most important person in my life! :D for embracing myself so that I would embrace others.

Gentlemen, give the women in your life a big hug today, shower them with your love, thank them. Say hello to those you haven't contacted for a long time and those you just got to know.

Peace.

CATS IN THE CRADLE

....songs in iPod as of today = 745....time to update....


I have a bad feeling I'm going to be sick. My throat's feeling dry albeit drinking litres of H2O accompanied by frequent visits to the ladies. Body is starting to ache. I don't like this. Plus, I haven't been ill for quite a while now. Not a good sign.

When I get sick, I get really, really sick. Confined to the bed the whole day sick. I'll at least have to take a 2-day medical leave (hooray?). The first day I'll hibernate. All skinny, bleary-eyed, runny nose and woozy. The next day I'll be all hungry, rummaging through the kitchen a mad starving zombie. Hey, what do you know, there's a nice rhyme to it :D

*tsk*

BACK TO THE GROUND


We just went through quite a hair-raising experience just now. It could just be nothing but it did manage to sent blood curdling in those few seconds.

I just came back from settling my parking fees and went straight to the office. As I sat down, it felt as though my vision started to sway side to side. I thought it could be that I was just back from the hot sun outside and my head was adjusting to my surrounding.

I asked anyway.

"Hey, you guys feel that?"

"Yeah! I thought it's just me!"

By then, being typical Malaysians, we started to come up with possible conjectures. Everybody was already on their feet, ready for an emergency evacuation (a bit over-reacting, just in case, nobody wants to end up in the evening news, just unidentified body parts among the rubbles). We ARE 16 storeys up.

The radio was switched on.

True enough, an earthquake measuring 6.8 on the Richter scale (unofficial) occured just south of Sumatera. Tremors were felt as far as Singapore and Malaysia.

A sigh of relief for now. Back to work.

PAPAN KEKUNCI KU BERKARAT

Hai,
Baru sahaja dapat tidurkan si kecil. Susah nak pejamkan mata walau dah berkalih berkali-kali atas katil. jadi ambil keputusan untuk menulis di ruangan yang lama tidak dikunjungi ini. Janggal juga bila cuba menulis dalam bahasa melayu secara penuh tapi kita cuba ye.

Apa yang bermain di fikiran penulis sekarang?

• dunia penuh dengan hipokrit
• lelah menunggu kepulangan suami
• apa yang bakal dimasak esok
• rindunya berbual mesra tanpa sekatan dengan rakan lama, penulis kadang-kadang terlupa bagaimana untuk gelak ketawa
• mengapa keluhuran sesuatu persahabatan harus diukur dengan kebendaan atau monetari
• adakah penulis seorang yang ketinggalan zaman sehingga tidak menyedari bahawa dunia sekarang tidak sama seperti 10 tahun dahulu..setiap benda, perhubungan, manusia ada nilai yang boleh dibeli dengan wang

Barangkali keadaan fizikal penulis menyebabkan penulis agak emosi dalam ruangan sesawang kali ini. Sebenarnya, penulis terlalu banyak luahan perasaan yang dipendam tetapi tidak mempunyai ruang yang sesuai kerana ada perkara yang terlalu peribadi bagi penulis untuk dikongsi umum. Maka cukuplah setakat menulis isi penting di ruangan ini. Terima kasih kepada empunya sesawang.

RAINY DAYS

....watching the train pass by....


I love rainy days, as long as it doesn't involve a Monday rush hour. Man, it rained cats, dogs and even cows! If it wasn't for my parked car just next door, I would've accepted the offer for a ride home (or to the nearest station, now how am I supposed to drive to work tomorrow if I leave my car?) But believe me, it's a no man's land that Jalan Ipoh, no public drop off near my home, and it's totally out of the way, so there's no point. I wouldn't take the public transport myself for that matter. Then again, if I accepted the offer, I wouldn't need to worry about having to navigate through boring traffic and poor visibility, plus I'd rather have somebody to strike a conversation with in such a gloomy weather. But on top of that, I forgot to say thanks for the offer! How rude was that?

So thanks for the kind gesture but I'll be okay, for now.

I waited another half an hour more. Then I braved the rain. I was half cursing, and half delighted under the same breath because, hey, I do love the rain.

Crap. I was soaked. But I was merry.

BANANA PANCAKES


What is your earliest recollection of childhood?

These are mine.

1. Being on the verandah of a house somewhere feeding crackers to a cat. I don't recall who's cat it was, I don't think mom would allow me to keep one at that age (it's not that she dislikes felines, she just wouldn't want to bother taking care of them, although Pablo, Aimar and Diego she adores dearly). Somehow, somebody managed to take a picture of that. I found that old photo, I was still in my green pyjamas! I had very little hair and I was gleefully munching on that cracker while the orange cat was eating from the small round table beside me. I was wide-eyed, partly because a lens was suddenly in my face, also because I was delighted that the kitty didn't run away.

I learned to love animals.

2. Being so fascinated by a set of thick encyclopaedia. I really digged those. I could spend hours going through them. I especially love the bright colourful images, the most memorable ones are about dinosaurs and men with rocket packs (back then it was sooooo James Bond cool). That was when I started using 'tyrannosaurus' and 'pterodactyl' in my vocabulary.

Books became part of me.

3. A red BMX! I thought I was the luckiest kid on earth. The best was having the small hind wheels finally removed. For a few years (until the bike shrunk on me), I'd never go anywhere without it.

I never stopped travelling whenever I can, even if I can only do it through imagination.

4. Catching tadpoles in the big drain. Thinking back, it's actually not a safe place to be for a 7-year old, all alone. The drain was dry most of the time though, with patches of shallow water here and there, where the tadpoles were found. I'd scoop them up, segregate them according to growth size, and examine them. Once in a while, I'd open them up to have a look inside (I know, it sounds disgusting).

I fell in love with the outdoors. And I began to appreciate science.

5. Getting my finger stuck in a metal trash can. The scar maintains. I still feel sick sometimes when I look at it.

Now how on earth can that happen? The trash can had holes underneath it to drain out excess water, that late afternoon, the trash can was put upside down. Thinking it would be fun while waiting for dad to pick me up (yes, it was at a friend's house, they had gone out a while and I was left with the maid), I collected dandelion stalks and stuffed them through the holes. Then, being the clever me, poked my finger in it to take them out again! (What the hell was I thinking?!) I tried pulling my finger out once, it wouldn't budge! Tried to remain cool and made a few more attempts. Panic started creeping in. There was neither a soul around. For the last time, I gathered my strength and yanked hard.

Blood dripped like there was no tomorrow. I saw a flap of skin and flesh.

I looked left, right and left again. Nobody was there to take pity on me! I made my way to my friend's house. Oh, the horror on the maid's face! She never stopped babbling until my dad came. It was not until I was sitting in the passenger's seat that I started crying because my dad was trying to comfort me (ironically). I received a few stitches down at the hospital. I could swear I heard what's going through the doctor's mind, that I was the most silly little girl he'd ever come across.

I secretly dreamed that one day I'd become a doctor (which I didn't eventually, instead got a job that's not anywhere in 'My Ambitions' list but enjoying it nonetheless)

6. Getting a blue eye at school.

Don't remember who started it. But I wasn't directly involved because it was one of those caught-in-a-crossfire situation. I took the punch and nobody noticed except for my piano teacher that afternoon. Didn't have much to say.

Sometimes, it's always a good idea to stay clear of sticky situations until the right time comes or you might end up hurting more.

7. Getting a keyboard. It would never compare with what friends had; the big organs and pianos. My dad was still working with the government. We didn't have much, so it was really a big deal to me. I knew dad wanted to surprise me beforehand, so I acted like it.

I grew more passionate about music.

8. Picking out a name for my newborn brother. I was elated.

9. Following my mom to the small town market on Sundays (a.k.a. the 'tamu'). I saw mothers juggling between taking care of the kids and the customers. It was always hot. A little boy was watching me eating my candy. But I had no more to give and my heart sank. My mom later told me that for some of them, it's their only way of earning a living. To go deep into the jungle to find produce to sell to feed their family. She said I should be grateful.

I really was and still am.

10. Spending the whole day with my cousins on a rambutan tree beside the pond doing what else? Eating rambutans! We laughed all day.

Friends are to be treasured, especially those who'll accept a mad chick for who she is. And (act like they) love her cooking.

THE SIDEWINDER SLEEPS TONIGHT


Being able to enjoy a real good night's sleep is a rare thing to me nowadays. I haven't had the luxury to tuck myself in and become lost in Dreamland for more than 4 hours on a daily basis. It's becoming quite irritating, waking up at 4 like clockwork and finding myself tossing and turning, I even switch off my alarm long before it screams for me at 6.30 a.m. I wondered if my tossing and turning will actually tire me back to sleep. Then I found out it didn't. I attempted so many other things, warm milk before bed etc. etc. to my disappointment.

Yesterday I resorted to something else though: fooling my own biological clock (at least that's how I see it). I stayed up late until about 2.00 a.m., flipping through channels while being on the internet until my eyelids became unbearably heavy. I went to bed eager for a fresh start the next day. Wait. Late night? Fresh start? They don't normally complement each other, do they? Not this morning. I woke up at 6.30 of course, with a slight sense of accomplishment.

Groggy.

There's some karaoke going on in the neighbourhood, must be some party. People taking their shots in real singing competitions suck sometimes. This is no competition, and sadly everybody suck. If I were to join them, I would suck anyway. But maybe I'd rather be there thinking I was having a blast instead of being stuck up here having to endure bad singing.

Perhaps, a break from MTV will do me good and the excruciating sound from people down below serves as an unwelcome lullaby. Just for tonight.

The Doors got a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame this week. Google if it sounds unfamiliar.