Ok, before I go on to my actual post today. I just wanted to share this picture with you. Hei and I stuffed and roasted a chicken the other day....look at my sitting chicken...isnt it funny!

But ok, down to business....

TODAY IS THE FIRST DAY OF SNOW!!!! I RAN OUT INTO THE SNOW, WAVING MY ARMS LIKE A MANIAC AND STUCK MY TONGUE OUT TO CATCH THE SNOW....

I LOVE IT...IT'S LIKE IN MY DREAMS.

I brought my students out for recess and I think I had as much fun as them. We ran, made snowballs, snowman...and the girls made snow angels.

The weirdest dream

Saturday I woke up from the weirdest dream. I cant remember all of the details but one part of it goes like this,

On 1 side, a fat chinese man wearing only a sarong and on the other a skinny chinese man in a bathrobe. They are long time loggerhead friends and they were quarrelling. The skinny man did something to the fat man and I heard the fat man retaliate saying, ' Oh, let me show you what I can do. Fried rice.....' This fat man started waving his arms in front of him like he was doing the drunken swordsplay and came a whirlpool of fried rice. Like a tornado, the fried rice just was spinning round and round in between his 2 arms. The next thing i know, he shot his palms out like Ryu from street fighter and the whirlpool of fried rice when flying at the skinny man, knocking him over. The skinny man fell to his back like a dead cockroach would and his bathrobe accidentally slip, exposing him. And like a true comedy, he said 'oops' and cover himself back.

Then I blank out for a while. I saw this 2 men again. This time they were boarding a ship and setting off. And no, they are wearing normal clothes this time. As I wave them goodbye and watch their ship sail into the sun set, i see this silhouette of the skinny man popping out from different areas of the ship, waving goodbye to me. In the background, there was this 2 snow cap volcanos which suddenly erupted and started shooting milk into the sky.

What does this all mean?!?!?!?!

Ok, I know I havent checked in for a while. But I'VE BEEN SO BUSY!!!! Besides from working almost everyday at the elementary school, I've just taken on a marketing role at a hospital...

And yes, there have been so much holiday!!!!

After the delightful trip to Orlando for Veterans Days, we went to watch a NBA match the next weekend with the Gohs. It was great; Washington Wizards vs Portland Trailblazers. And although I think Xinsui and I don't really know whats going on on the court technically, we shouted, we screamed, we booed and we cheered. I must say however, I am a little disappointed with the hot dog.....

Washington won!

This weekend, we decided to take it easy. After an extremely filling lunch/tea/dinner thanksgiving feast, we drove 2 hours to Williamsburg and in a cold autumn/winters' night we queue up in front of Nike and started our shopping spree on Midnight Madness Black Friday.

After 3 hours and an empty pocket, we drove ourselves back to the hotel and slept. Warmly in the bed.

On Friday morning, we drove another 45 mins to Virginia beach. It was early, it was cold and it was gusty. So instead of freezing by the beach, we head to the nearest mall to hide from the weather....

"Here you LEAVE TODAY and ENTER A WORLD of
YESTERDAY, TOMORROW and FANTASY"

I read this sign as I walked into Disney World: Magic Kingdom and I couldn't believe it. I was actually in Orlando, Florida!

And so I did, I left everything at the entrance and entered a fantasy world. I became 5 all over again. Surprisingly, Hei was also excited about Disney world, even though he was not acting like a child like me.

But who cares. I grew up reading about Pinnochio, watched Chipmunks, Mickey, Donald and all the princesses. I WANTED TO BE A PRINCESS.

And as I watched the parade, tears welled up in my eyes and I wave frantically at the mascots. Again, I couldnt believe I was there watching the parade. It was really a DREAM COME THROUGH.


The weather was perfect to top it all off, it was cool but sunny and it was even the perfect weather to eat a popsicle. Its hot enough to appreciate the cold popsicle yet cool enough not to have the popsicle melt in your hands.

I was in love. We had a great day.

On Day 2, we went to Seaworld. Still feeling great from Disney world, nothing could have brought us down.

We got to feed the dolphins and sea lions, watched some amazing performances by the killer whales and hei got to ride on the roller coaster. Twice!

We love Orlando

To my beloved sister, E-Chiing and Marine Corps,

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!!!!

Hei and I attended the Marine Corps Ball this evening and it was a night to remember.

The ceremonial sequences were done to the highest precision and added significance to the event. A ballroom full of Marines in uniform and their ladies at hand, dressed to impress, it was just breath-taking. Hei wasn't too shabby himself, in his tuxedo looking uniform, he stood out like a shiny star in the deep blue sky. Captain Loveboat they call him.

Drinks came pouring, one after another. The Marines sure know how to have a good time. And the food, though wasn't the highlight of the event was tasty and cooked perfectly. (Well, at least the fist of a beef tenderloin that Hei had)

A speech made by Guest of Honor, a Lieutant-General made us laugh, touched us and brought tears to my eyes. This is what is meant by having pride at what you do. And the Marines do. Each and every one of them have pride and passion for doing the things that few Americans choose to do, fight in a war even though when many don't support, and building friendships that will last a lifetime. They really lived up to their motto; THE FEW THE PROUD.

If only our Singapore Army is able to induce such pride in our military men. Well, who knows, maybe 232 years from now, we can achieve what the Marines achieved.

This night is especially special for me. I couldn't have asked for more. My soulmate, my date, my partner, my husband, asked me to dance for the first time since we met. And even though our first dance is nothing like those I watched in the movies, it was perfect for me. I couldn't have asked for more.

Thanks Baby for the perfect night.

This is my 'Because You Can' meal for Xiaohei. After completing a 42.2km and burning probably a million calories, I made him a BIG BBQ chicken Calzone, mash potatoes and a side salad, BECAUSE HE CAN afford the calories.

Im so proud of him.

I can't help by blog this...its hilarious!

The Fall has Arrived.....

It has been raining for 2 days straight. This much need rain comes after what is apparently what is one of the worse drought ever in Virginia, there was even a water restriction.

But the last couple of days has seen a sharp fall in the temperature and droplets of water come pouring down from the sky...

I wish all my friends could see the beautiful sight.

Together with the rain, Halloween is round the corner. And since we are here where Halloween is so celebrated, Hei and I have gotten outselves into the spirit as well.

Ok, normally I shriek away from talking about intestinal organ of the body and 'waste' management of a human being...but this time, i thought I share a small insight with you guys.



I have started (6th day) of my 14 days Activia Challenge. Activia is yogurt with some pro-biotic cultures thing that apparently aids in the disgestive system of the body, meaning it helps with intestinal movement and waste removal.



Well, according to the website/tv ad, take Activia for 14 consecutive days and it will regulate your digestive system and make you feel better.

Well,so far I think it may be working....or at least i hope it is working.

I saw my grandma again this morning. This time, she was lying in a hospital bed. Her eyes was close and hooked up to a lot of machines keeping her alive. I was in the next room, waiting for my turn to see her.

'You can go in now Ying Girl', my aunt walked in and told me, teary eyed.

I walked into the ward and laid down with my grandma on the unusually large bed. Initially she seemed unhappy to see me, but when she saw me crying, my grandma surmon her strength and put her arms around me.

I almost forgot how thin and wrinkly her skin was...it was so comforting.

She told me not to blame myself for her being that way and that it was her time to go. I really couldnt hear anything else because of my crying.

Singaporeans, quick sign before 19th October (Singapore time)

HAPPY BIRTHDAY JESSIE!!!!

My good days has just continued.

I started my volunteer work at Ashurst Elementary school, assisting Ms Water during kindergarten art class and Mrs Vernon in Grade 1. And I am enjoying it so much, never thought that interacting with children brings that much fulfilment. And honestly, kids says the darnest things. A couple of kids simply made up my name the other day and called me Mrs Yamaguchi. And 1 boy came up to me and to confirm my name as Ms Wee, and when I said yes, he gave me a example! "Is it like, my mother and I, WE went to the mall on Sunday'. I can't help but laugh and nod my head.

Who knows. Maybe this is MY CALLING in life?

Anyhoo, it was a fun weekend. The entire Singapore coup here in Quantico went for dinner at Joe's Crab Shack for some ANGMOH crabs as farewell dinner for Willie and Chris. The next morning, the gohs, us, willie and chris woke up early for some pancakes at IHOP (International House of Pancakes) before going to the airport. As I stand at the departure gate waving them off, I no longer feel that I am in a hurry to go home. Beginning to really have USA grow on me.

Besides, how can I leave Meow Meow? My part time cat who comes to visit occasionally. Yesterday after dinner, i heard a mewing at my balcony and she came to visit again! After a month of missing her.

Sorrry huru, din mean to copy the name of your cat but I started saying Meow Meow and she seemed to respond...Mebbe she is Meow Meow's parallel universe twin!

You know how sometimes you have a good day...and you have a GOOD day. Well, I had a really GREAT day. Its probably the best day I have had since I came to US. I mean, sure 99% of the days here are great, Blacks and I have fun, we go out, we laugh, but today was different. It was a FEEL GOOD day.

I made the bed this morning and it looked great. The blankets were folded proportionately and the pillows were stacked perfectly. Sure, you might say that this is such a AUNTIE feel good day. But it was a great start to the day for me.

Then I went to the gym, and probably this was the part of the day I felt the least good but well, I cross train for 15 mins and spend the next 45 mins reading cosmopolitan while pretending I was cycling! So I didn't burn 500 calories, but I did learn that to draw a pair of great eyebrows, always brush, draw then brush again. So that it looks natural. Good intell....

Afterwards, I attended my much dreaded IOWC luncheon where I needed to give a short presentation about Singapore for about 100 military wives. I wasn't confident about the presentation and just wanted to make everything short and sweet and get it over and done with. But to my most plesant surprise, many thought my presentation was fantastic! 1 middle age Korean lady even came up to me afterwards, complemented me on my great job and told me this; 'I have attended these luncheons for many years now, and this is the first time I see the whole room shut up and pay attention. You really captured everyone's attention. I can tell, you will be a great success next time.' Wow, I never thought I would receive such great complements but it really touched my heart.

Feeling sky high, I followed Mari to the Elementary school on base seeking for some volunteer work to do. I met with Ms Waters, the art teacher who was thrilled to have an additional help and I am in. Starting tomorrow, I will be helping out at the art class!

And to top it all off, I bought Clinique's facial bar soap WITH dish for only $10 at PX!!!

Its only 2.30pm and already this has been one of the best days. Now I just want my blackie home and I am trying out a Southwestern Pork Soup tonight with soem Corn Salad....

I cant wait.

Here's a CSI Story Idea for you

'Hi, I'm here to see Mr Gil Grissom', said the long hair brunette standing nervously at the reception.

The receptionist buzzed for Grissom and ushered to her to the waiting area.

'Do I know you?' Grissom walked into the room without the lady's notice. She had been staring blankly into space. Her fingers dug into her legs as she turned to face her saviour.

'Take me in. I am going to kill my mother', she said as tears welled up her eyes

Grissom brings her into the interrogation room and signalled Capt Brass to come in as well. He was puzzled by the lady's own accusation against herself. Going to kill, means it hasn't happened yet, means no crime has been committed. What is she talking about.

Looking through the 1 way mirror. Grissom relayed to Brass what had happened.

'I am a Crime Scene Investigator, but in this case, there is no Crime Scene for me to Investigate'

WHO ARE YOU...WHO, WHO. WHO, WHO....plays CSI Song

Xiaohei is 30 years old.

Need I say more?

I made him a chocolate tart (failed) and chicken pot pie for his special birthday dinner. We had the Gohs down for dinner and Xin Sui made my favourite rosti.

It was a simple night, but i hope it was special for him

Happy Birthday my 30 year old husband.

I don;t know why but now that all the aches and pain are gone, I feel like going for another 13 mile half marathon.

Is running addictive?

For those who are interested and I can;t imagine who can be, my 2 middle toes that was bruised from the half marathon is now dark purplish red in colour.

Is my toes turning black and drop off?

We are Finishers!!!!

We went. We conquered! 13.1 miles around Quantico.

I am so proud of ourselves. Blacks finished just after 2 hours and even though I came in about 55 mins after him, I finished nonetheless!

Jogged, walked, stopped, jogged, walked. In whatever order you put it, we crossed the finishing line.

Now, as I sit comfortably on my couch with my feet in a foot massager. I look back and wonder whether the sense of achievement is worth the pain on my feet. Bad shoes. I have 2 middle toes with bruising underneath the nail which I am convince my nail is gonna drop off.

Of course its worth it! My baby said he is proud of me.

不知道为什么每当我在国外的时候，我都非常喜欢听华语歌曲。开车， 玩电脑，运动时，都会喜欢听到刘德华，陈奕迅， 张学友 或 郑秀文， 郑伊健和周杰伦唱他们的歌给我听。给我一种情切得感觉。

我想在这里答谢我的大姐。她真得太了解我了，送了三包块熟面和一包koala牌的巧克力饼干给我。不用说，我和小黑在三十六个钟头以内把全部都吃光了。虽然现在有一点后悔没把它们留起来， 可是我们真的吃道很开心。好像回到家。

现在正在听着周杰伦的菊花台

Autumn has arrive.

While we enjoy watching the change in weather, the leaves are starting to dry and go red. The humidity has gone down. We are also awe by the suddenly drop in temperature. I believe it was only last week that we had a sweltering 80-90 degree (30-35) weather with high humidity and no wind. Its Monday morning and I woke up in 48 degree (9) weather outside, the sun is suddenly a very welcoming source of warmth and our temperature in the house at 77 degree has also suddenly became a sigh of relieve when we step in.

I guess its time to bring all our winter clothes out from way back in the closet.

PS to Elin: Now I know why my bro-in-law loves his sweats....would really like to have some on now!

We wonder how are we going to survive in winter....Blacks probably can't because he's got school but I have this thought of digging a hole in the ground, line it up with fleece and blankets and hibernate for the remaining time here. If animals can do that, why not us?

But I also can't wait to have steamboat soon in this weather. Its just the absolute perfect environment for a hot steaming bowl of soup with everything in it. Will be just like the movies.

For now, its back to my already cold plate of fried rice and then huddle up in bed.

I shall head to the sauna later to keep warm. Hooray to the free gym!

I woke up this morning, cutting short the strangest dream.

I dreamt of my late English teacher, Miss Peh Yam Choo. She was walking and I was calling after her. After shouting several times of 'Miss Peh', I shouted her name 'Yam Choo'. Only then she turned around.

After catching up with her, she just smiled at me and said, 'I thought you were angry with me when you shouted my name. Now I just see that you are happy to see me.'

Then she hailed a cab and left.

Here becomes a bit ridiculous, because the scene changed and it was a malay food stall. This lady was just starting to cook something and this lady was Miss Peh. A short/stout Malay man came by and asked what I was doing at his stall. Then he told me about how he married Miss Peh and now her name was Ria. Also, that he married her cos he thought she was sweet and she liked chickened.

I turned to Miss Peh and asked is that the real reason for leaving her job as a teacher? She just smiled. Then after that, I followed up with a question on her career after she chose to leave, even after a coupla of headhunters wanted her, why she chose to just be married and sell malay food.

She smiled at me. Before she could answer my question, I woke up.

I am a Benevolent Creator???

http://www.personaldna.com/report.php?k=efuetNbmrubguXg-HO-ADDDA-e631

Lemme know if you think its true for me

Spent the Saturday at DC with the Gohs and Willie again. This time we stop by Silver Springs to have dim sum and wow, it was as close to home as it could get. Though of cos, nothing compares to my dear mom-in-law's dim sum but it made me really happy.

Then under the sweltering heat (again), we proceeded to the Halocast Musuem. The exhibit area was huge and very well organise, starting from how Hilter rose to power and what actually happened. But after 2 sections, I felt too disturbed to continue and left to wait for the rest.

Really don't wanna talk too much about it because I don;t think anyone can understand what really happened unless you are really there. Im just disturb by how humans can do such a thing to humans. We are all the same arent we?

Don;t you hate it when there isnt enough milk for your cereal? Im currently suffering a milk deficiency in my cereal bowl and im not satisfired with breakfast!

Just came back from dinner at Siti and Rob's. Siti made fabulous Mexican food and I gorged myself.

Very shamelessly, I attempted to make chocolate cake with chocolate icing but it doesn't look at the picture in the book at all! But it doesnt taste all that bad.

So we are back home and I'm feeling bloaty and probably gonna turn in early today.

But before I do, enjoy this song by Plain White T's. Initially wanted to share "Hey there Delilah' with you but I stumbled across this and found it very quirky.

Hate is a strong word. But I really really really don't like you.

Our weekend in DC

Been wanting to blog this for a while.

Last week, 5 of us (the gohs, us and willie) drove down to Washington Zoo. Now, this zoo is amazing. Firstly because its FREE. Secondly, its HUGE. And THEY HAVE PANDAS.

But this I gotta admit, there is probably a reason why Singapore make you pay an arm and a leg for entrance to the zoo. While the DC Zoo was great, we didn't really see a lot of animals. I dunno, maybe we were just unlucky. Actually we were, but I'll tell u in a bit. Most of the animals were 'non-existent' or sleeping. Or you need sniper eyes (thanks Willie) to spot them.

The panda was breath taking though, and we were lucky enough to be at the enclosure just as Tian Tian (the male panda) woke from his nap and walked around his enclosure a bit before going into the back room (not visible to public) to probably sleep more. But I felt a little cheated by the zoo volunteer who said that the other 2 pandas are roaming around at the other enclosure if we just walk down the road. After walking down and saw nothing, willie came back to a empty tian tian enclosure and realised the zoo volunteer was probably just regurgitating a script. Cos she was saying the exact same thing!!

Now, lemme tell you why luck wasnt with us. Firstly, about 15 mins into the drive towards DC, Sihou's suddenly realise there is no petrol in the car! And the petrol sign came on!!!! I suffer from petrol anxiety, by that i mean i get nervous when petrol runs low ie, 1/4 tank. So seeing that petrol sign was just nerve wrecking for me. But well, it was an Audi and he said it should last us til DC so i just try to focus on other things.

Then, we have had lovely weather all week. Cool and breezy, cold even some days. But somehow on the day we decided to go to the zoo...it was freaking 40C and the sun was blistering!

After the zoo, we sat our scalding ass down at a Malaysian restaurant. Not before making about 3 wrong turns and 10 mins spent looking for parking. By that time, I was hungry and we were all looking forward to good local food. But it was a let down. My mee goreng was bland and not spicy at all, willie's beef hor fun was just oily, hei's curry laksa tasted like indian curry.

One fun thing happened tho. We gatecrashed a open house at Georgetown University. Entered one of their function halls where they were serving food, and helped ourselves to the refreshing lemonade...haha.

It was fun being back in school again.

I can't help it. So proud of my husband....Top in class!!! Full marks!!!

My next career move

I have decided, my next career of choice will be the mascot/spokesperson of Handiplast. Seems like I have a plaster on me every week...Last week, I chopped my left ring finger, it grazed my cuticle and left a cut on my nail. Then I dropped one of my bowls and a piece came flying at my feet and pricked it, leaving a gapping hole on my right feet.

Today, just first day of the week, I 'chopped' my left index finger while sharpening my knife and...well you can see from the picture.

So how about it...am I eligible?

The King

'And while I can think, while I can talk
While I can stand, while I can walk
While I can dream, please let my dream'

I dunno if its because I am so much closer to Memphis and there is some supernatural spiritual power, or because it has just been an Elvis week. (Elvis's death annivesary just passed on 16th Aug). But I've been on such an Elvis mood, and it helps because telly here shows a lot of Elvis lately.

I promised myself that I will make that trip to Memphis and see graceland and pay homage to the King at least once while Im here. Think this would make my dad so proud.

So what issit? When I watch his documentary, tears actually well up my eyes and i feel a slight ache that such a great (and so hot looking) man passed. But i think partly I always see my dad when i watch Elvis.

And I miss my dad so much.

I stumbled across this article...how to be the perfect wife.

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/153701/how_to_be_the_perfect_wife.html

it talks aboout how the perfect wife maintains the harmonic balance in the house. laugh at jokes that have been told repeatedly. Cleans up after the husband's mess. cover her husband with the blanket in the middle of the night. cook the husband's favourite dishes...and if she doesnt know...learn.

im so not the perfect wife.

what does that make me? currently, a slob with clouds print PJs..

We hosted Sihou & Xinsui, Willie and Chris for a Nasi Lemak Party. Coconut rice, fried chicken wings, hard boiled eggs, sayur lodeh, fried peanuts and bagadel almost made the environment home. For 20 mins, it actually seem like Singapore.

Though, if we are in Singapore, we would be having this party in Serangoon and we will be having Punggol Nasi Lemak after paying $50. Ahh, and sweating like pigs.

But well, i think the effort was well done and I truly am proud of our attempt. My great husband spent the entire afternoon frying up all the chicken wings and bagadel. I had the easy job of sayur lodeh only....

Chao Shao Bao. We all like Cha Shao Bao

Ok I know it doesnt look very asthetic but I made this char siew bao from scratched! Marinated the pork. Followed up roasting of the pork into char siew and chopped into small pieces. Made and knead the dough and 'shaped' it.

So it looks bad...and it doesnt taste nothing like my mother-in-law. Her char siew baos had fluffy light skins and aromatic flavourful char siew when you break it open...makes me water now just thinking about it.

But nonetheless, I am proud. Hei is gonna attempt next.

Washington last Sunday

After driving a good 45 mins and another 15 mins looking for parking, we finally arrive in Washington DC.

The landscape was exactly like what I watch in movies like Independence Day (minus the blowing up of White house), Forrest Gump (minus the hippies on the lawn) and many other movies set in the capital.

Unfortunately it was simply too hot for us to really submerge in the environment, breathe and taste the air...all we breathed was hot stale air and tasted the sodium that was in the beads of sweat trickling down my cheeks.

Nonetheless we had a great time. Spent 2 hours in the National Air and Space Museum where I must admit, I was kinda bored after the first hour. And then walked down National Mall (thats where Jenny was running when she spotted Forrest, when Forrest was giving a speech on the Vietnam War) and towards Capitol Hill. After that, we very quickly down a cup of diet pepsi. Hit the met to get our car and headed home...Ahhh good ol' air conditioning.

I didn't believe how outraged i was when I watched this so-called documentary. Why oh why oh why is a Singapore thing such a big thing for the world? As a Singaporean myself, I used to love chewing gum too. And when they banned it, I was upset but today, it doesnt bother me anymore and I see the benefits behind it.

How come something that (mebbe to me) is so trival led to this film maker saying things like 'taking away rights', 'oppressed citizens'. When you 'critize' others, do you not look at your own reflection in the mirror? It's really so much easier to pass judgement?

If you are a Singaporean like me, I'm sure you have a lot of 'complaints' about our Singapore government and have heard many many more 'complaints' from others (taxi drivers for one...hee) but I really don;t think its a bad place to live. Sure its expensive...and stifling at times. But its safe, its clean and the economy is relative resilient. Is it that bad?

I dunno...maybe Im just ignorant...maybe Im just a patriot.

1 month in fast food nation and look how big my butt got!!!

The King and I

Blacks has a habit of turning on the TV while having his breakfast in the morning before he leaves for work. Usually its the news channel we watch but because he was in a hurry today (alarm didn't go off) that he simply watched the channel that was already on.

And it happened to be the 1956 version of 'The King and I'. Somehow it caught my attention and I continued to watch it after he left. Until of course I fell asleep on the couch.

I really can't explain what intrigued me, not sure if it was the vocals or the cast. At first I thought it was funny to see a cast of cauasians playing the role of the Thais and thought the 1999 'Anna and the King' starring Jodie Foster and Chow Yun Fatt was much better. But then of course, the budget for the later movie was much more and everything else.

Then, I begin to be very awed by the magnitude of the set, the detailing of each of the cast costumes, the vocals of Julie Andrews. Plus, its nice to watch an old musical movie everynow and then cos its just pleasant to hear people tell a story true a song. Not plain old dialogue like what we have today.

So I leave you here with a song. Most of you should have heard the tune before...I've always known the song but not sure where it was from.

I am having such a terrible headache its unreal. Feels like my brain is banging on my skull, screaming to be let out and its making nausea at the same time.

No. I am not pregnant.

Attended the BBQ organised by Black's classmates for all the international students and their family. Met so many people that I can't recall all their names but think I will have more chance. There was wine from all over the world cos we had people from france, spain etc...and beer from all over the world, German, Dutch, Japanese, Canadian, USA.

iGeek: You would have LOVE this tasting session.

BBQ was typical ang-moh style with just hot dogs and hamburgers. While I was there, I was thinking if this was a Singapore BBQ there would be Chicken Wing, Pork Chop, Chicken Chop, Beef Steak, Satay, Sting Ray, Curry Chicken, Char bee Hoon, Almond Jelly, Agar Agar, Hot Dog, Salad, more Curry Chicken, More Char Bee Hoon. Fried rice....

Just thinking about it makes my headache feels a lot better......ahhhh I miss my mother and my mother-in-law cooking....

Our first video

I always knew I was not so much a nature person but always thought I would be fine if put in nature. After all, I 'hiked' the HSBC Treetop walk, Blacks and I take walks in Botanical Gardens and East Coast. But this afternoon, I think I have affirmed what I already knew.

We went to a walk at a Wildlife Trail in Quantico (sorry, forgot to bring our camera) and unlike the 'trails' in Singapore, the footpath are not tarred, there are logs blocking the way and leaves from branches actually brushes you by as you walk. It started alright cos I was actually quite excited about it. Its not like you will be able to do this in Singapore and was looking forward to seeing wildlife. But, as we proceeded, I was gittery at every rustle among the leaves and went hysterical when I saw a green colour fly on my arm.

But Im alright. Got out of the wilderness alive and well. Will try hiking again. Hopefully with time, I will get more accustom to nature.

Hopefully the next time, nature has a Victoria Secret store within.

A funny story

A couple went into an insurance company. The husband bought an auto insurance the day before and wanted to add another vehicle into the policy as they had 2 cars. He was dressed in running shorts and a t-shirt while the wife was in a short skirt and a racer back.

Enters the saleslady. The same one who served the husband the day before.

'Here to add your daughter?' She asked.

'Huh?' The huaband thought he heard her wrongly

'Here to add your daughter into the policy?' She asked again but realised a split second later, a booboo.

'Oh or that's your wife?' She re-asked the question, with a slight embarassment on her face.

'I don't look that old right?'

'Oh not at all.........give me one second' The saleslady quickly exits the embarassing scene that she has just caused.

The wife couldn't stop laughing. Although they are only 5 years apart, she always thought her husband looks very young for his age and she looks mature.

But it really made her day. SHE LOOKS YOUNG!!!

I've been wanting to blog this for a while....see that yellow blob in the middle?

Hei and I were dining at The Roti Prata Place at Thomson area and watch them cook. They are literally DEEP FRYING roti prata...the yellow blob is GHEE!!!

ALESSIO GIAN DE MERCURIO

Welcome to the world, my precious nephew...You are so lucky to be born into this weird ass family....but we promise we will love you so much that you will turn into one of us haha.

The battle of Fredericksburg

Well, do you know about the battle of Fredericksburg? Well, neither do we. But while exploring around the area where we stay, we stumbled upon the memorial of the battle of Fredericksburg. And so happen as we reach, the guided tour was gonna start. So what the heck we thought. We went on the guided tour and listen to all about the Battle of Fredericksburg.

So what issit all about? If I didn't remember wrongly what the guide said; it was the civil war. The war between the Confederates (Lincoln's army) and the Union Army. What so rather significant about this war was....ahhh...i cant remember it properly so I shant marr the history. But it was significant.

Also, since Virignia is 12 hours behind Singapore...we finally also caught Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. 12 days late. I loved the movie though I must say I expected a lot more...of course, its but hard to put everything in the book in.

To wrap up the night up...blacks and I decided to bring the mountain to mohammed....we brought Singapore WANTON MEE to Virginia.....

Ok...I havent got photos cos have been quite busy...but will post some soon!!!

12th July 2007.

After enduring a 7 hour flight from Singapore to Japan, a 45 min transit time where we only managed to see the banner that says "Yokoso Japan", a 17 hour flight from Japan to Washington DC and an approximately 2 hour car right from Washington dulles airport, we finally reach Quantico.
You can only imagine our energy level by the time we entered our temporary accomodation. But it was only 6.30pm, the sky was bright like its mid afternoon, plus we were hungry. So we took up LTC Chan's offer for dinner with Sihou and his wife.
Our first meal in America turns out to be Vietnamese Pho. Which I must admit wasnt that bad a thing cos after the loooong flight, all i wanted was a hot bowl of soup (typical for all chinese).
Coversations remained superficial and I could sense my husband was either very tired or rather nervous but I reckon he was both cos he just wasnt in his usual self.

Once dinner was done, we headed back to our room, marvelled by how its was already 9pm and the sky was just starting to turn dark. A second good shower and we slept by 10pm!
The last time I slept at 10pm was in primary school I think!

First impression: Feeling a little like a mountain tortoise not having been to USA before, I really didn;t get the feeling that I actually was in USA.
It just really looks very different to what I watched in the movies. Was I disappointed with what I saw? Not really. Maybe because I was too tired to notice anything as well.
But one thing's for sure, I wish the world leaders come together some day to unify certain things. Firstly, standard measurement;either feet/yards or meters/centimeters, lbs/kg. Its very difficult for people to keep converting everything! Especially temperature!
Secondly, driving on 1 agreed side of the road. While Americans (when you watch movies) always say right hand driving is like driving on the wrong side of the road. Well, I feel that left hand driving seems to BE DRIVING ON THE WRONG SIDE OF THE ROAD. I keep turning my left head only to realise my rearview mirror is on my right and so is everything else.
But it was a good sight to see ALL THE UNIFORMED MEN, their clean shaven sides with that strong angular jaw...soooo cute.

13th July 2007

Again, i think the last time I woke up at 6am was in primary school. We had to wake up early to get out paperwork done. Ltc Chan really did us a HUGE FAVOUR by driving us all around and showing us what was to be done.
We first when to 'check-in', by seeing a lady called Tommie Hart. A very nice senior lady whom I can only assumed that she has been working for the military for the most part of her life, judging by the amount of international ornaments on the shelves around her and the clutter on her table.
She then sent us to get our IDs done which we were told by Ltc Chan that it would be a long wait. The ID Center is packed almost everyday and if you are a walk-in/late for your appointment, get ready to wait for up to 7 hours and run into the risk of not getting to get it done still!
Luckily, he has already made an appointment for us and we were glad we weren't late. At the counter, we met a lady called Jacqui who said she will attend to us immediately. We din even have to wait at all!!! Amazing.
Though there were a few screw ups that happened; name mispelt, date of birth wrong (still wrong for mine), we were glad to be in and out of the ID center in apparently record time of 1 hour!
Plus, having the honour to participate in Jacqui's survey of 'Would you get a stranger to pee on your foot if you ever stepped on a sea urchin'.
And no, it din end there. We next went to the Naval Medical Center to 'check-in' once more and make sure our names were in the database for free medical.
Medical here is like australia, its by appointment only. So what do you do if you are running high fever and coughing out your lungs? Wait?
It's times like this that really make me appreciate Singapore.

Oh, finally done with all the administrative paperwork. Now to pick up our rental car for the week.

We stopped by the MCX (Marine Corps Exchange) which is like a mini so-called shopping center. Well, I have never really gone into a military base before so it was a bit weird to see sooo many men in uniform walking around.
I also managed to find all the marine corps tee-shirts that chin would like very much.

We rented a compact car, Kia. And Blacks walked to the wrong side of the car wanted to get into the driver's seat. Booboo 1. Blacks then drove out, almost turning into the lane of on-coming traffic. Booboo 2.
I wonder if Ltc Chan feared for his life sitting next to Blacks. It was an driving instructor teach a new learner driver all over again.

What I didn't understand was, how does quantico expect anyone to get anywhere on time when the bloody speed limit averages at around 30mph (55kph)?!?!?!
The driving is relatively easy to accustom to. Its the speed limit that was frustrating!

Blacks and I spend the after flat hunting. Saw 3 apartment estates which i presume is equivalent to our condominiums. But its a FAAARRRR CRYYYY from ours.
Sure it has a pool and a smmall gym in each of the estate. But my god, the apartment blocks are no taller than 3 storeys and it looks like a big bunglow with bigg rooms...posing as apartments.
And they don't come cheap to. So we will need to see a few more to decide what exactly we want.

WALLLLL MARRRTTTT. Now, for those who has never been to the states and to Wal mart like me. You will probably go in and rename Wal Mart to WOW MART!
It is really quite amazing. The floor space of WOW MART is probably equivalent to 10 or more 5 room flats. Aisle after aisle of American Size shopping
Everything is BIGGER. Especially the trolleys you push around. Its like the size of a Cherry Q car. WWWOOOWWWW MART.

Lend your support!

If you live along Hougang Ave 10. You belong to both Bedok Resevoir and Punggol GRC and you pay your conservancy fees at Alujunied Town Council.

Welcome to Singapore. Where life is just a BIG confusion.

MY LAST 7 Days

I never thought there would be a day where I actually will miss my job when I leave. But guess what? I'm experiencing it now.

For the past 11 months, I have taken bus 10/30, to Harbourfront, changed to bus 166/57/97/61 and going into 450 Alexandra Road. Taken the lift to the 5th floor and into my cubicle where i work from 9am to 6pm. and take the same route back home.

Ok, so I don't take the bus all the time. I cab and I drive and no I don't always take the same route back home cos Im usually out for dinner with Juni after work or I'll be at the gym first before I go home. But I'm sure you know what I mean.

I've cleared out my cubicle that was full of soft toys and figurines. Cleared out my drawers that were full of junk. And my mailbox that were full of spam. At my final week of work at HP, I am currently a benchwarmer...or seat fillers if you prefer. I am penning my "Pugilistic Manual" book for the nice marketing manager and my eventual replacement. And I am harbouring thoughts of giving the evil marketing manager loads of shit to clear. But that would be unethical and mean. I will not stoop to his despicable-ness.

But I miss the people already. My Superman who gives me something to smile at the office...freakily look like my Blackman. My Bros (Khem&Tay) who dines and laugh (at me mostly) with me. Hwee,Kong,Mokky and all the other TCs that giives me hope that there are actually good decent people in the world after all. YioYio whom I love to hate but hate to love because I can never win with him and its sometimes such a turn on. And sweet Lynda whos always got my back.

Oh well, but I think i gave it a good run after all. I worked my ass off when Im needed. And tried very ahrd to deliver when Im suppose to. If I've failed in some way, at least I learned a ton along the way.

Good Bye HP Software SEA. You'll be missed.

There is a Chinese saying that goes like this; Fang Xid Tu Dao Li Di Cheng Fo. It means actually for an evil / bad person to literally drop his/her evil ways & work towards becoming Buddha "e; good. I dunno why but l've always like this saying. So recently a decision I made gave me a chance to improvise on this old saying. I've been saying "Fang Xia TU Dao Li Di Cheng Lao Po. which actually means that I am ready to drop everything and become his wife. full time. 100%. in AMERICA.

Well, it was a very hard decision I had to make. After all, aside from the romantic aspect of 'eloping'; we need to also be practical right? But in the end, Hei and I are convince that money can be earned again but the experience may never. So we arrived at this decision. Afterall, I'm also looking to take a break from this country. After 3 bosses,1 bitcher than the last. I am tired of dealing with bastards who don't appreciate my hard work & effort.

So ya, Im leaving, together with my Blackman, we are flying 11th July. Singapore-Washington on United Airlines.

I will miss everyone dearly.

Mr Moon by Mando Diao

Stumbled upon this relatively unknown (in Singapore) Swedish band and found them really quite good. You should check out their other song 'Long Before Rock n Roll'

Enjoy!

Somewhere in Singapore lies a shop conducting a REMOVING SALE.

你不知不觉得被別人牵着鼻子走。
但你却无动于中的看着你的家人为你而操心，失望。

I miss her.

I remember the days where its just me and her. We shared the room and kill ourselves laughing over nothing. Gone are the days where she listens and give me good advice. Nowadays, she just provides me with sweeping words of advice. We used to stuff ourselves with 4 bowls of herbal soup and 2 packets of duck rice while watching the latest episode of Ally Mcbeal. It didn't matter if it was my clothes or hers, or my shoes or hers, we shared everything. She was the person I run to even noone understood me because I know she does. My room was the room she hid and cried while arguing with her ex-boyfriend on the telephone, not knowing I was still awake. My heart ache while I handed her the box of tissue and went back to sleep. We used to have our own private conversation while watching television and noone could understand but us. We used to have dinners together, just her and me. We used to go out together just her and me.

She has distant.

Ironically, we are only 10 feet from each other.

We never have dinners together anymore. Even going as far as having to buy a duplicate item in the fridge just so its segregated 'yours' and 'mine'. I never see her alone anymore. A third party has arrive. And even though I am happy to see her happy. I wonder if she knows I miss her. And sometimes cry because I miss the times we used to share. Everything seems to be a secret these days. Everything seems to be hidden. She is hidden. She is so far away that I can't even see her shadow sometimes. What happen?

I love her so much.

And I hate you for taking her away from me. It is because of you that she has become so distant. From everyone. The only time she has she spend with you. Do you realise it? You may have brought her happiness. But your selfish-ness and possessiveness have allowed noone else but yourself to enjoy her. Your voice have drowned everyone else's. Your life is all she has revolve herself over. Yet, you say you love her. You just want her. You just want noone else to have her. You don't see her for who she is. You just want to mould her into who you want her to be.

And you succeeded.

She is noone the she, I grew up with. Her outspoken nature has been dwarf by your insatiable voice. Her personality has been concealed by your out the top, exhibitionist nature.

You are a theif. You are a theif who sponges off others like its only right. You stole her for us. You stole her from the world and hid her in hands for only you to appreciate.

I miss her. I hope one day, she comes back.

My...

So much has happened recently that I don't know where to begin and somehow somewhere, I lost that will to blog even though so much and ran through my mind.

My burn has heal and though the mark has not exactly gone away but its no longer irritated and itchy. I got hurt that night, not just physically but also emotionally. By the water and by my husband whose work came before I did. It still kinda ached my heart a bit til today but I suppose it will soon heal in time.

My work is also coming to an end. In 21 days, I will be leaving HP and looking for a new phase in life. It seems all so daunting, exciting and fulfilling at the same time because it means again I have to start looking for work which I really dread. But at the same time, I think I have had a good run at HP. I did my work to the best of my ability and made some new friends that have guided me and made me laugh. Besides from new found work skills and knowledge, I also know now how important who u know are. Damn Im not in the HOOD.

My home. Didn't come. The Bedok flat that I was rooting for really fell through. Well technically, we got a queue number but because the number is so great, the 'polite' customer service officer from HDB tells me that we are actually not successful. I gave her a piece of my mind then regret giving crap to her cos she was just doing her job. Wrote to ST forum and got published.

My friends. Plenty of happenings. Besides from iGeek's a series of unfortunate events yesterday in Sentosa; got stuck in toilet cubicle, got slipper kicked off on the sky ride. A Jimny is after Molala. Soft spoken guy for seemed nice enough. Well, let's just allow nature to takes it course and love to floowwww.

My poor Vicky. I was trying to trim her fur around her ear so it wont irritated but I accidentally nip her ear. I felt so guilty the whole day even now I almost cried. Cooked a pasta dinner for her and gave her some bananas. But I swear I have the whole's most good natured dog. Love her!

I was hungry I wanted to eat

I want noodles and didn't want meat

Cup noodles was what I crave

Telling my mum I had to brave

So water was boiled and poured over the mee

Wanted to eat my noodles while Bleach i see

But when i lifted my cup noodles lid

Some got stuck and the noodles started to slid

Then tip all over the noodle and the hot water

On the counter the floor and my tigh later

I screamed in pain but first I had to

Clean up the mess I had to do

My tigh didn't hurt until I shower

I almost cried and almost cower

Under the pain when the water hit my tigh

But to act brave I only sigh

So now Im hungry and in pain

I think Clumsy is really my name!

I'm so proud of my fellow Singaporean. Mr Dick Lee

It has been rather eventful since my last entry. Let me see where shall I begin....

The Good
A external hard drive. A Playstation Portal. A Shaver (for Hei). A Joop dress. A pair of shoe. The damage is severe but I'm happy. Well, ask me again in 2 weeks when I'm truly broke and mebbe it wouldnt be that great anymore but for now, I'm happy. I've been wanting a PSP since don't know when. So Sunday, me and hei made a deal. I bought him a shaver = $80 and he buys me a PSP = $500 (plus games). Somehow I keep thinking I had gotten a better deal. HeeHee

Fracture. Starring Anthony Hopkins and Ryan Gosling. 2hours plus of intense suspense and an intelligent plot with a clever twist to close. I enjoyed the movie immensely and didn't even eat much of the popcorn. I may be stereotyping but Anthony Hopkins is made to play the character of psychotic killer who is highly intelligent. Just watch Silence of the Lambs. It still gives me the chills.

Wild Hogs. I must say, I don't think the movie is THAT GREAT or THAT FUNNY. But anything with John Travolta cant be bad, he is still sexy after all. There is something Ugly about the movie...see below for details.

Pizza Hut. My dad is now a pizza delivery man! Sure its not a glamourous job and a far cry from a boss he used to be. But I'm happy he is happy on his coming out of retirement. It kills his time and lighten his mood these days!

The Bad
Work has been pretty bad. Following my lousy work review, things has not look up. My boss still pretty much hate my guts and think very little of me. But what's there to do? I suppose I just have to make the best outta it. I love my job, I like the department and enjoy my colleagues. With my boss and I, I think its the uncontrollable factor of 八字不合 or clash of the 8 characters.

Dancefloor. What a waste of my time watching the finale. Results was announced in SUCH A BAD MANNER. And to think MediaCorp had the audacity to invite Benji (the winner of America's "So you think you can dance") to perform. What would he have brought away....

MSU. This is an even bigger waste of time. The women are not stunning, they aren't articulate and some are downright stupid. Why do we even bother. Really.

The Ugly
Loud Chinese Gay man. Who spoilt my watching of Wild Hogs because he laughed SO LOUDLY at every single little thing. To a point he had to throw himself forward because it's SO FUNNY. Sitting beside his Ang Moh boyfriend, he completely ruin my movie because I couldnt hear the punchline.

I would here like to say a word of thanks to the Tan Family who 'adopted' me and treated me to a hearty dinner. Plus, the fact that they appreciated my 'shamelessness' when I finished up all the food. It was a great fishball vege soup, sesame chicken and sardines with plenty of onions! And the view on the 23rd floor was amazing...of course this was before the HDB Hub was built I was told.

DocT and I then went to take her Honda Diracc for a spin. The car was so cool, it had a touch screen GPS system and everything. The only flaw, which I honestly think its quite stoopid, is that the car needed to come to a complete stop with the handbrake up before you can activate any buttons on the touch screen!!!

Molala met up with me and DocT at Gardens where we spent the rest of the night chatting over a fondue and a sundae.

Off to Changi in a Honda we went

To see some she-im whose d!cks are bent

Some were short and others were tall

All I'm sure has little or no balls

But they were pretty, they were slim

Their names were Janice, Sharon but not Jim

Their waist was small, their boobs were big

And when they walk they jig jig jig

Respect I have for them for their courage

For their bravery to not live in a cage

But to run free and live proud

Kudos to you I say it loud!

I admit, I am not the most cultured person and it has been YEARS since my last play. So yesterday when I was dressing up to go to work, I decided to wear and nice tube top with jeans and my killer heels because I am going to the theatre (studio) to catch 251 with iGeek and Molala.

to my dearest igeek: I realise that you never use my real name when you blog, so I will keep your ID a 'secret' too. =)

Anyway. By the time I finish organising an internal training which noone turned up. My feet was screaming in pain. It didn't feel like my feet. It felt like Hei, squeezing his giant feet into my heels and hike through the jungle for 1 week. I was in pain. And it didn't help that it rained and iGeek happily took out her sneakers to air her wet feet when we sat at the studio. She looked mighty comfortable. Im sure it stank, but it looked comfortable.

Back to the main topic. Well, although I can't say it was awful. But 251 certainly didn't capture me as much as I like it to be. It has some rather funny bits and it had a interesting use of numbers. But I don't think it truly captured the story that is ANNABEL CHONG. Maybe because I am bias. I did watch the actual documentary. Amy Cheng looked too young to be the mother, especially when the father (Michael something i think) looked a bit too old. And it was a really lousy wig that Cheryl Miles put on but complemented her not-so-good acting. And the guy who played the character of the director I felt was too over the top. Lastly, the front nudity of Cynthia Lee was total unecessary and didn't add value to the play whatsoever.

Nonetheless, it was a good effort. Annabel Chong is an extremely complex character afterall and her story is one that is very difficult to narrate. Even after watching the documentary, I didn't really understand why she did the things she did. I don't know if you can say that Singapore should be proud of her. Im sure a huge percentage is still ashamed she is even Singaporean. But to a certain extend, can you not admire her guts? Can you not deny the fact that she had the courage to step out and beyond the box? She ventured into lands beyond Singapore's wildest imagination, took a plunge into the red sea and swam to the desserted island. That took courage. Courage that a lot of us will never find. I wish I can be a bit like her.

I think a year or 2 ago, there was an article on New paper on Annabel Chong. This columnist wrote about how there is a little Annabel in all of us. I agree with him. Annabel Chong is just a collection of all our fantasies and lust, our courage and strength and our feelings and thoughts balled up into 1 person.

Hei and I have the most fun in bed.

No, Im not just talking about the sex.

But seriously, every night before we sleep, we lie in bed talking and laughing. Mainly laughing. We nudge each other, tickle each other and simply irritate the living daylights out of each other for fun. Noone gets angry or fed up. It just fun.

I love that 15 mins before bed time.

Tonight, its just me in bed alone....no fun at all.

Halloween came early

The picture is not extremely good but in a nutshell, I caught my finger at the door the other day and it shaved off about a quarter of my nail off...Ouch

I havent realise that I havent blogged in such a long time. With a turn of an eye, March has gone and April is here. I must say that March has been a rough month, yet at the same time I also felt the love and support from everyone.

Had a lousy job review which made me really distraught. But friends kept my spirit up and my soul alive and my sturdy pillar of strength give me time out just to cry all I want. Really appreciate it guys. Thanks so much.

Hei did a review with his boss too and had a confirmation for America. With that, it leaves me with a really heavy heart. How on earth can we be apart for 10 mths i really wonder.

3rd year anniversary

3 years ago today, she fell ill and he brought a cup of soup to her. Although it was just a hot cup of instant soup, but it warmed both her stomach and her heart. She had ask him to stay until she fell asleep and he did. Just stroking her hair while she closed her eyes and entered dreamland.

That was the day they put themselves in the web of love.

Today, hei and I spent our 3rd year anniversary together. I'm not sure whether issit the fact that I havent spent much or even any time with him recently or that its our 1st anniversary after we got married, but I feel especially emotional today. I patiently waited for him at home today as he was busy with his new intake, and cant help smiling and getting excited when I heard my phone ring and it was him. Somehow I dunno why, I wasn't angry or disappointed when he said he could only have a quick 40mins dinner with me as he was rushing back to work. Part of me just felt glad and happy that he bothers to come home just to have a quick dinner with me. Though it was only packet hor-fun, but that 20mins was the highlight of my day.

No candlelight dinner. No presents. No flowers. But the accompany was precious.

Its just me alone again in bed tonight. I miss him so much yet I am so glad I found my one.

Baby, thanks for a almost perfect 3 years. Next stop, 5000 days. Muacks

As she sat at the dinner and watch her friend make his vows and began a new chapter of his friend with his wife, she cant help but reminisce about her own wedding last december. It was only a mere 3 months ago but it only seems like yesterday to her. And she wished she can turned back time and go through that very happy day again. Tears welled up at her eyes as she watched the newly weds make their thank you speech, clasping each other hands tightly and gazing deeply into each other's eyes.

She misses her man.

This week that he has been away from her due to a hectic work schedule, she often wondered how she is gonna make it without him around for 10 mths. Noone to laugh with her, noone to share private jokes with and noone to cuddle up when she feels lonely.

10mths - its neither a short time nor a long time. But its time apart for a couple who is so tight. He is her source of comfort and she is his pillar of strenght. At least when he comes home, tired and worn from a hard day at work, he knows he can lean on her for some tender loving care. And when she has had a bad day at work, she know she can rant to him without him judging her and simply provide a supportive shoulder.

She loves her man.

A weekend without him

As Friday moved along, she wondered how she is going to spend this weekend alone. He will be away at work all weekend, maybe not even coming home to sleep. At 5pm, she decided she will spend some time working out so she packed her bags, left for work and spend the next hour in the buses to reach her gym. After spending an hour at the gym class lifting more than her usual weights, she rented 3 movies and bought some groceries to cook some dinner for herself. How she wished that she was gonna spent the night cuddling up with him, watching the movies she rented and eating the food she cooked. But nonetheless, the night went past fairly easy with the movies.

At midnight, she heard the sound of keys rattling at the door. It cant be anyone else. A smile was pasted on her face and she went out to greet him. Their eyes met and although he was worn out from the very long day at work, he was glad that he was home to her. As they laid in bed, she watched him sleep and wondered how she is going to managed 10mths without him by her side. She stroked his hair and slowly fell asleep.

SHI-TOU!

"And....at an official weight of two hundred and seventeen pounds......TWO! Time world heavy weight champion....

ROCKY, THE ITALIAN STALLION, BALLLLL-BOOOO-A!!!!!

How can you not love to watch Rocky?? Yeah, sure, the story line is a bit too boring this time around. Too emotional and Sly certainly didn't look his best. But its still an inspiring story nonetheless. The epic scene of watching Rocky run up a long flight of stairs simply just makes me drive to National Stadium, run up the stairs and scream at the top of my lungs when I reach the top.

My suggestion is to watch this movie when you just finish gym, or before you are heading out to the gym. It makes you hyped up and ready to beat the crap out of air (when you take body combat classes like me).

Their will to live

I've been wanting to blog this for a while but kept forgetting. So now since I am waiting for the biggest game in this season's EPL, Man U versus Liverpool, I shall take some time to blog.

16th Feb 07

I was exhausted from 1 full week of activities. This day, I woke up at 5.00am only to reach work at 6.00am to oversee a setup for the teambuilding activity. I got home around 3.00pm, exhausted like hell and fell asleep. About 6-ish, I woke up, got out of my room and realise that noone was home. As I walked into the living room, I cant help but hear kitten wailing outside.

You know sometimes you just have the gut feeling that something is wrong? Well, I felt that. I went to the balcony and couldn't help but feel that I need to find this kittens. So I ran out of my house and followed the wails.

There they were, 1 was stuck on a thorny hedge while the other had fallen into the drain, half submerged. Quickly running back into the house and take a container, lined it with a rag and ran out again. When I got there the 2nd time, I realise the kitten in the drain was no longer wailing. My heart stopped. But I quickly took the kitten caught in the hedge out first. I didn't dare to pick the kitten in the drain because I feared it was already dead. But when I was about to leave, I learn a soft wail.

I saved 2 kittens. Handed them over SPCA.

To little thorny and little braveheart. I hope you guys are alright

NA.S.T.Y

Everything was simply just N.A.S.T.Y at the 'swanky' new cafe at The Cathay. IL CAFE DE ROMA is the name. Roma was totally lacking in the ambience but ILL it sure made me. The indoor area of the cafe look sparse and the furniture looks like its trying too hard. To the extend that they have decided to leave the TAGS on the chairs. At some point, I wondered if I was at Ikea shopping for furniture. There was a small are which I felt had potential though, it was a long shelf with a counter top and allowed people to sit around it. But this even is ruin by a black corner of the cafe where I reckon the store is. A black cloth serving as a curtain hung sloppily and beside it was a IKEA shelf displaying all their sauces and cutlery, exposed to public.

Well, I was hoping the food would be at least edible thing but oh no, you are strongly mistaken. I had a cafe mocha which was average but it tasted more like hot chocolate milk. Hei had some cafe gelato thing which was served in a martini glass which is nothing but 1 shot of expresso and a blop of ice cream. And we shared a bland lousy brownie which doesnt even taste a fraction as good at those $1.20 chocolate cake I can find at my humble neighbourhood confectionery. It was dry and for the first time in my life, the baker uses pine nuts to add the crunch.

I guess the guy that was not wearing a uniform, standing behing the cashier counter was the owner of the place. Firstly he doesnt carry a smile for the customers and when he walked out of the cashier counter to hand a customer a bill. I was shocked that he was wearing 3 quarters and crocos! Not that is wrong, but it just doesnt fit the image they are trying to portray.

Mebbe it was a wrong nite for us to go. See picture below. I'm not sure if you get it. But if you don't let me know. I'd like to think she lost weight

The Protege

So, what can go wrong. With a cast of Andy Lau and Daniel Wu, even if the plot stinks, you are smitten by the 2 hunks. I would include my lovely Louis Koo into the above sentence but they made his character too awful and the make-up too ugly for me to indulge.

But, the plot is surprisingly tight, and the director did not go out of focus. The story sent a extremely powerful message yet it displays a soft, emotional side. It was serious yet it had its spurts of humour (though I thought the audience yesterday laughed a bit too much). It was not perfect of course, the movie was a little too gory to my liking and some parts (especially the 'hand' scene) seems like a horror movie instead of a suspense thriller.

I am however undecided whether Andy Lau was the most ideal person for his role. Sure, its an undeniable fact that he is a great actor and his performance in Infernal Affairs was immaculate, but although his performance was still top class, its just hard to see Andy in the streaks of grey hair, acting as a father of 2.5. Maybe it was also because Anita Yuen's character looked much older than him.

Otherwise, I think this movie is at the top of the charts in my billboard and doubt very much there will be another Chinese movie this year that will be able to knock my socks off as much as this did.

Great job to the entire production crew. And SAY NO TO DRUGS!

Look what I found

What are they looking at

As we finish dinner at VivoCity's Kopitiam, we realise there was a crowd standing outside Standard Chartered, all looking in. Thinking it must have been a robbery or a case of assult, we quicken our pace and started walking towards the bank too.

What were they looking at??? So intently, so engross. Some were even discussing with their friends about something.

Can you tell???? Perhaps a closer look will help you.

I'm not sure if its a new marketing gimmick from Standard Chartered. Luring customer by airing football on their big screen. It's Singapore vs Thailand!!!! ROOOAAARRR