Today is Blaeck's 3rd wedding anniversary. Firstly, I wonder why is it called a Wedding Anniversary? Should it be marriage anniversary? Or do we only remember the wedding and not the marriage? When did the wedding end and the marriage began? From the moment I said "I do"? Or when Lydia says "Ladies and Gentlemen, I give you Mr and Mrs Tay".
Mrs Tay. That's a salutation and a surname I only use when the banks or the telephone company calls. I remembered when I was in America and I introduced myself as Eying Wee, people just assumed that I am Mrs Wee and that Hei's surname is Wee. Once, the guard at the gantry even called Hei "Mr Wee"!
Thats an Asian thing I realise. I dont understand how as developed western countries are, the women always adopt their husband's surname. My mother took my dad's surname but never legally. My boss still holds her own surname and so did I. And I cant imagine my sister being Elin De Mercurio. *No offense Mark, its a lovely surname. Just I am so used to Elin Wee*.
So I am a wife. Ive been a wife for the last 3 years. How does that feel?
Honestly, not much difference. Was I suppose to get a gush of new emotions when I signed the papers? I didn't. Was I suppose to look at Hei differently? I didn't.
But did my life changed? I suppose it did. iGeek thinks I have grown up and mature, but I hardly think its because of the new marital status right?
Sex still the same - just less these days because of work schedule (God! I hate that reason). But it didn't change before or after (Yes Yes, I was no virgin when I got married).
Do I love Hei more? I dont necessarily think so. I do think that our relationship has evolve though. Like when we first met it was more physical appeal, the sexual tension - then as you get to know each other better you get that rush of admiration - now its more of an understanding. Sure the physical animal lust is still there but the companionship is so much more interesting.
A toast to 3 years and 3 years more!
Cheers.
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
Day 5: Mitsui Outlet Park + Shinjuku
Food No. 20: Ebi Soba + Inari, Yasai Tempura Soba + Onigiri
Ahh hot breakfast, it was delish. Except that I couldnt slurp the noodles due to my stupid cough. My inari was nice with sesame in the rice. Yumss..
It was suppose to be suppose day yesterday but the outlet was disappointing. Not that it had nothing to buy but it wasnt exactly outlet prices and the clothes were all made for winter. So my takings for the day were only a Columbia vest, a ha
t and 4 LL sized stockings.
Look how nice my Columbia vest it. I wore it immediately (of course, as per my nature). And immediately I felt a rush of warmess. I LOVE it....
Food No. 21: Tuna Pasta with Chocolate cake
We took a break during lunch time at the outlet mall. Not hungry but after seeing everyone eat the pasta around us, we (or I) wanted one too. "Seems like very nice, everyone is having it", I said. Only to realise its because the cafe only serves pasta.
Our waiter hardly spoke English so through some hand gesturing, we order. But when 3 drinks came for us, we reckon we must have a miscomm somewhere.
Pasta was alright. Im not a fan of cooked tuna bu its ok. Still looking for better pasta in Japan.
By the time we were done, it was around 4.30 and we took a ride to Shinjuku. My god, the train ride took 1.5 hours but maybe because we were on a holiday that we didnt realise it at all. Train this evening was not that crowded, after experience the literal pack like sardines that evening where I was almost lifted off my feet. Nothing faced me anymore. We have learnt to follow behind a Japanaese Ojisan who will OPEN a path for us.
Food No. 22: BBQ Meats
We went back to Shinjuku for dinner cos we having seem the place at night. It was like Neon Lights Festival. I wanted Shabu Shabu for dinner and Hei wanted to BBQ - so the first restaurant we saw was a BBQ restaurent and we went. Embedded in the table was small BBQ set. Again through hand gesturing, we order a set of beef, pork, veggies and what i think are hokkaido crab legs.
The crab legs were yummmmm. At first we didnt know how to BBQ it since it was already cooked so we "heated" its up only but realise the flesh inside was still cold. So Hei said to put until the shell got blacked and after that, it was trule yummmmssss.
After dinner, we walked around a little and saw all the young trying to make it gangsters....hair long like Feng Yun and wear only like 1 button shirt and 1 jacket, freezing their ass off. Hei got approached by 1 african man for "Wanna try strip club?" - and we know we have wandered too deep into the alley. heheh.
Food No. 23: Cheese Pancake.
I forgot to take a picture. But it was too thick for my liking.
Food No. 24: Takopachi
They only sell in balls of 8!!! And these are like half size bigger than those in Singapore....I only managed 2....was so full...Hei had the rest.
"Super Nihon" Rating for the day: 7/10 - My Columbia Vest Rulllezzz but Im coughing my lungs out.
Ahh hot breakfast, it was delish. Except that I couldnt slurp the noodles due to my stupid cough. My inari was nice with sesame in the rice. Yumss..
It was suppose to be suppose day yesterday but the outlet was disappointing. Not that it had nothing to buy but it wasnt exactly outlet prices and the clothes were all made for winter. So my takings for the day were only a Columbia vest, a ha
t and 4 LL sized stockings.Look how nice my Columbia vest it. I wore it immediately (of course, as per my nature). And immediately I felt a rush of warmess. I LOVE it....
Food No. 21: Tuna Pasta with Chocolate cake
We took a break during lunch time at the outlet mall. Not hungry but after seeing everyone eat the pasta around us, we (or I) wanted one too. "Seems like very nice, everyone is having it", I said. Only to realise its because the cafe only serves pasta.
Our waiter hardly spoke English so through some hand gesturing, we order. But when 3 drinks came for us, we reckon we must have a miscomm somewhere.
Pasta was alright. Im not a fan of cooked tuna bu its ok. Still looking for better pasta in Japan.
By the time we were done, it was around 4.30 and we took a ride to Shinjuku. My god, the train ride took 1.5 hours but maybe because we were on a holiday that we didnt realise it at all. Train this evening was not that crowded, after experience the literal pack like sardines that evening where I was almost lifted off my feet. Nothing faced me anymore. We have learnt to follow behind a Japanaese Ojisan who will OPEN a path for us.
Food No. 22: BBQ Meats
We went back to Shinjuku for dinner cos we having seem the place at night. It was like Neon Lights Festival. I wanted Shabu Shabu for dinner and Hei wanted to BBQ - so the first restaurant we saw was a BBQ restaurent and we went. Embedded in the table was small BBQ set. Again through hand gesturing, we order a set of beef, pork, veggies and what i think are hokkaido crab legs.
The crab legs were yummmmm. At first we didnt know how to BBQ it since it was already cooked so we "heated" its up only but realise the flesh inside was still cold. So Hei said to put until the shell got blacked and after that, it was trule yummmmssss.
After dinner, we walked around a little and saw all the young trying to make it gangsters....hair long like Feng Yun and wear only like 1 button shirt and 1 jacket, freezing their ass off. Hei got approached by 1 african man for "Wanna try strip club?" - and we know we have wandered too deep into the alley. heheh.
Food No. 23: Cheese Pancake.
I forgot to take a picture. But it was too thick for my liking.
Food No. 24: Takopachi
They only sell in balls of 8!!! And these are like half size bigger than those in Singapore....I only managed 2....was so full...Hei had the rest.
"Super Nihon" Rating for the day: 7/10 - My Columbia Vest Rulllezzz but Im coughing my lungs out.
Sunday, December 20, 2009
Day 4: Asakusa, Harajuku + Felicia Chin, Roppongi
Started out holy day with a prayer at Sensoji Temple. For 100 yen, I shooked the cylinder with wishing sticks and got a "Final Small Fortune" fortune slip. It was a neither good nor bad fortune with everything being "halved".
Food No. 15: Bean Cake
Reminded me of Mum's attempt at Delimanjoo. It was some cakey thingy with some beany paste in it. Made to order so it was very hot and nice for the morning. But as I walked down the street, I realised there are hand made ones too, selling even cheaper. But oh well...it was nice.
Hei and I walked around the temple a bit, made a couple more wishes and he spotted 2 men in Ninja costumes!!! My inner ninja came out....I took a picture with them and they even let me hold the samurai!!!
Food No. 16: Ice Cream Waffle Sandwich
Like the ones in Singapore but only more expensive. Cant say much cos I didnt taste.
Food No. 17: Yasai Dan-Men + Gyoza and Chashyuu men with some deep fried bamboo shoot
The first and only time I came to Japan was as a kid mebbe about 10-12 years ago. I dont remember much from that trip with mum and echiing except the snowy weather in Nikko (where echiing nearly lost her foot), dinner in hotel on christmas night and the hot of ramen.
Today, Hei and I went into a Chinese/Japanese place to eat and I order the only veggie noodle in the menu. From my limited Japanese, I understood the noodle type as "Dan Mian or Egg Noodles" - so i assume that it was the Chinese part of the restaurant. However, when it came, it tasted like what I remember ramen to taste like.
It was springy and had a very nice al-dante texture. The ramen I have had so far taste more like yeasty spaghetti. So tell me, have I had mistaken Dan Mian for Ramen???
We went to Harajuku again yesterday to Yoyogi Park. Didnt see as many dress-uppers as I liked (I was hopping to see more Gothic Lollies) but we saw a who bunch of Rockabillys who seemed to do the TWIST more than they are rock "n rolling. All the men had the elvis-do --> even those balding ones. It was fun nonetheless.
Food No. 18: Mcdonalds (Mcspicy + Shaka Shaka Chicken)
We went off to Tokyo Tower. For those unaware, its like the Effiel Tower but apparently lighter in structure and taller. I was a litte hungry so order a little Mackers first. Mcspicy here is spicer than Singapore but less meaty. Shaka Shaka Chicken is like a fried chicken patty with the MSG powder --> alright. Nothin fantastic.
Up to the observation tower we went and caught the shadow of Fuji-san....Thats about the closest we will be to Mt Fuji. It was nice......heh.
Food No. 19: Hard Rock Cafe (Ribs and Pork combo and Fillet Steak)
In case you dont know, Hei and I collect shot glasses and fridge magnet everytime we travel and if there is a HRC, we like to buy the shot glass from there as well. Well, anyway, we had dinner too just to have something different.
My fillet steak was nicely cooked (order medium to be on the safe side) but the teriyaki sauce (so japanese right??) was a litte jialet after a while.
We took a walk to Tokyo Midtown with our filled stomachs to see the christmas light up. It was BEAUTIFUL (wait for pictures that do no justify at all...heh).
"Super Nihon" Rating: 8/10 - Lovely Weather during the day really makes everything swell....=)
Food No. 15: Bean Cake
Reminded me of Mum's attempt at Delimanjoo. It was some cakey thingy with some beany paste in it. Made to order so it was very hot and nice for the morning. But as I walked down the street, I realised there are hand made ones too, selling even cheaper. But oh well...it was nice.
Hei and I walked around the temple a bit, made a couple more wishes and he spotted 2 men in Ninja costumes!!! My inner ninja came out....I took a picture with them and they even let me hold the samurai!!!
Food No. 16: Ice Cream Waffle Sandwich
Like the ones in Singapore but only more expensive. Cant say much cos I didnt taste.
Food No. 17: Yasai Dan-Men + Gyoza and Chashyuu men with some deep fried bamboo shoot
The first and only time I came to Japan was as a kid mebbe about 10-12 years ago. I dont remember much from that trip with mum and echiing except the snowy weather in Nikko (where echiing nearly lost her foot), dinner in hotel on christmas night and the hot of ramen.
Today, Hei and I went into a Chinese/Japanese place to eat and I order the only veggie noodle in the menu. From my limited Japanese, I understood the noodle type as "Dan Mian or Egg Noodles" - so i assume that it was the Chinese part of the restaurant. However, when it came, it tasted like what I remember ramen to taste like.
It was springy and had a very nice al-dante texture. The ramen I have had so far taste more like yeasty spaghetti. So tell me, have I had mistaken Dan Mian for Ramen???
We went to Harajuku again yesterday to Yoyogi Park. Didnt see as many dress-uppers as I liked (I was hopping to see more Gothic Lollies) but we saw a who bunch of Rockabillys who seemed to do the TWIST more than they are rock "n rolling. All the men had the elvis-do --> even those balding ones. It was fun nonetheless.
Food No. 18: Mcdonalds (Mcspicy + Shaka Shaka Chicken)
We went off to Tokyo Tower. For those unaware, its like the Effiel Tower but apparently lighter in structure and taller. I was a litte hungry so order a little Mackers first. Mcspicy here is spicer than Singapore but less meaty. Shaka Shaka Chicken is like a fried chicken patty with the MSG powder --> alright. Nothin fantastic.
Up to the observation tower we went and caught the shadow of Fuji-san....Thats about the closest we will be to Mt Fuji. It was nice......heh.
Food No. 19: Hard Rock Cafe (Ribs and Pork combo and Fillet Steak)
In case you dont know, Hei and I collect shot glasses and fridge magnet everytime we travel and if there is a HRC, we like to buy the shot glass from there as well. Well, anyway, we had dinner too just to have something different.
My fillet steak was nicely cooked (order medium to be on the safe side) but the teriyaki sauce (so japanese right??) was a litte jialet after a while.
We took a walk to Tokyo Midtown with our filled stomachs to see the christmas light up. It was BEAUTIFUL (wait for pictures that do no justify at all...heh).
"Super Nihon" Rating: 8/10 - Lovely Weather during the day really makes everything swell....=)
Saturday, December 19, 2009
Day 3: Shinjuku, Harajuku, Shibuya
Woke up late this morning and was bout noon before we managed to get out. As we got off the train in Shinjuku, Hei realised that he had forgotten his wallet and we went back to the inn.
So by the time we reached Shinjuku for the second time, it was 3pm and we were hungry.
Food No 12:Beef Rice Bowl with Egg
We found another emall eatery that you order from a vending maching again -good cos then we dont have to struggle with ordering in japanese/english. We order 2 beef bowl set and it came with a raw egg. After observing what people do, we follow suit. Crack the egg into a saucer, add some soy sauce and add into your beef bowl. I must say, I not a fan of raw eggs but what the heck right? I am in Japan, so do what Japanese do. It was not bad at all.
We walked around shinjuku for a bit, entered Takashimaya and found everything too expensive.
So we decided to head o Shibuya. Along the way, the train stopped in Harajuku , i asked Hei to alight so we can explore the weird place thats Harajuku. There must be like 1000 people at the station, there were even police doing crowd control!!!
Food No. 13: Soba Set with Rice
We liked the one from yesterday so much that we found another store that served similar. It was delish and cheap.
Food No. 14: Sushi
Bad Idea. For me anyway. I was already suffering from a splitting headache and the taste and smell of tis one particular raw prawn like sushi tipped me over the edge,. I was sick.
So I am gonna stop blogging here. My head is going split open and I am not wearing my specs, so god knows Im typing properly now.....
Super Nihon Rating for the day: 6/10 --> I am really having a badddd headache, but Harajuku was funnnnn
So by the time we reached Shinjuku for the second time, it was 3pm and we were hungry.
Food No 12:Beef Rice Bowl with Egg
We found another emall eatery that you order from a vending maching again -good cos then we dont have to struggle with ordering in japanese/english. We order 2 beef bowl set and it came with a raw egg. After observing what people do, we follow suit. Crack the egg into a saucer, add some soy sauce and add into your beef bowl. I must say, I not a fan of raw eggs but what the heck right? I am in Japan, so do what Japanese do. It was not bad at all.
We walked around shinjuku for a bit, entered Takashimaya and found everything too expensive.
So we decided to head o Shibuya. Along the way, the train stopped in Harajuku , i asked Hei to alight so we can explore the weird place thats Harajuku. There must be like 1000 people at the station, there were even police doing crowd control!!!
Food No. 13: Soba Set with Rice
We liked the one from yesterday so much that we found another store that served similar. It was delish and cheap.
Food No. 14: Sushi
Bad Idea. For me anyway. I was already suffering from a splitting headache and the taste and smell of tis one particular raw prawn like sushi tipped me over the edge,. I was sick.
So I am gonna stop blogging here. My head is going split open and I am not wearing my specs, so god knows Im typing properly now.....
Super Nihon Rating for the day: 6/10 --> I am really having a badddd headache, but Harajuku was funnnnn
Friday, December 18, 2009
Day 2 - Yokohama & Akihabara
Woke at 9 this morning. Showered and got ready in an hour. Checked the weather - low of 5 degrees and high of 9 degrees. But I must have totally forgotten how cold 5 was.
Hei and I took a train to Tokyo and changed to a JR to Yokohama. From Yokohama, we changed to another train to Shin Yokohama to visit the Ramen Museum.
Food No. 5: Macdonalds (Big Mac and Teriyaki Burger Value Set) Price: 1080 yen
Those who know me knows that I like to try Mackers at every country I visit. Hei found the Big Mac to be the same but the Teriyaki burger was yums. Sitted beside us was a Cauasian dude who spoke Japanese...Impress!!!
Food No. 6: Ramen @ Ramen Museum. Price: 2450 yen.
Salty! Ramen Museum was a disappointment. Nothing to see or do. Everything was in Japanese and I had to pay to eat Ramen after paying 300yen for admission!!!! At the entrace, I saw that they sold 3 months pass and 1 year pass. Then I realise why, its actually like a collection of restaurants that serves ramen from all over Japan. Hokkaido, Tokyo etc. So you need to pay like a cover charge to eat! My soup was salty and the noodle nothing fantastic.
Hei was irritating though, after I pointed out Japanese was the land of slurping. The louder the better, he SLURPED EVERYTHING!
Food No. 7: Vicks Medicated Drops (Lemon Flavour) Price: 218 yen
Ahhhh, sooth my throat.
Food No. 8: Corn Soup, Sausage and Chips, Coffee and Tea.
We went to the Pier at Yokohama after that. It was bone chilling cold but we trudge to see this statue "The girl who always have red shoes on". Its a LIE!!! We walked for 15 mins only see a bronze statue of a little girl sitting down and no red shoes. =P
Then, we droped by a little diner/cafe called Jonathan for coffee. The soup was not hot and the tea was too mild.
Food No. 9: Curry Rice + Soba Set, Katsudon. Price: 780 yen
BEST MEAL SO FAR!!!! At a little corner shop in Akihabara where we order through a vending machine, so no hand gesturing. I had just plain hot soba and curry (gravy only) with rice and it was amazing. Tasty, hot, cheap! I walked out with a huge SMILE on my face.
We went to a 6 stories sex shop in Akihabara. Rubber vaginas, dildos of all shape size and voltage, nipple clips, lingere, porn, what kinky fantasy you want they've got it. I made sure there was another women there before I enter. It was both fascinating and disturbing.
There was a automated apparatus that helps a man masturbate. How lazy can humans get!?!?!
Food No. 10: Bread
Hei was still feeling peckish after dinner so we bought some bread from a japanese-french confectionery. Taste different but yums.....at least the one I had.
Food No. 11: Donut (Sugar, Chocolate) + Churos
As we were walking back to the inn, we went by Mister Donut. Just wanting to take a peek at what they sold (Donuts duh?!) we ended up with more food.....
"Super Nihon" rating for the day: 6/10 - Dinner was too awesome...
Hei and I took a train to Tokyo and changed to a JR to Yokohama. From Yokohama, we changed to another train to Shin Yokohama to visit the Ramen Museum.
Food No. 5: Macdonalds (Big Mac and Teriyaki Burger Value Set) Price: 1080 yen
Those who know me knows that I like to try Mackers at every country I visit. Hei found the Big Mac to be the same but the Teriyaki burger was yums. Sitted beside us was a Cauasian dude who spoke Japanese...Impress!!!
Food No. 6: Ramen @ Ramen Museum. Price: 2450 yen.
Salty! Ramen Museum was a disappointment. Nothing to see or do. Everything was in Japanese and I had to pay to eat Ramen after paying 300yen for admission!!!! At the entrace, I saw that they sold 3 months pass and 1 year pass. Then I realise why, its actually like a collection of restaurants that serves ramen from all over Japan. Hokkaido, Tokyo etc. So you need to pay like a cover charge to eat! My soup was salty and the noodle nothing fantastic.
Hei was irritating though, after I pointed out Japanese was the land of slurping. The louder the better, he SLURPED EVERYTHING!
Food No. 7: Vicks Medicated Drops (Lemon Flavour) Price: 218 yen
Ahhhh, sooth my throat.
Food No. 8: Corn Soup, Sausage and Chips, Coffee and Tea.
We went to the Pier at Yokohama after that. It was bone chilling cold but we trudge to see this statue "The girl who always have red shoes on". Its a LIE!!! We walked for 15 mins only see a bronze statue of a little girl sitting down and no red shoes. =P
Then, we droped by a little diner/cafe called Jonathan for coffee. The soup was not hot and the tea was too mild.
Food No. 9: Curry Rice + Soba Set, Katsudon. Price: 780 yen
BEST MEAL SO FAR!!!! At a little corner shop in Akihabara where we order through a vending machine, so no hand gesturing. I had just plain hot soba and curry (gravy only) with rice and it was amazing. Tasty, hot, cheap! I walked out with a huge SMILE on my face.
We went to a 6 stories sex shop in Akihabara. Rubber vaginas, dildos of all shape size and voltage, nipple clips, lingere, porn, what kinky fantasy you want they've got it. I made sure there was another women there before I enter. It was both fascinating and disturbing.
There was a automated apparatus that helps a man masturbate. How lazy can humans get!?!?!
Food No. 10: Bread
Hei was still feeling peckish after dinner so we bought some bread from a japanese-french confectionery. Taste different but yums.....at least the one I had.
Food No. 11: Donut (Sugar, Chocolate) + Churos
As we were walking back to the inn, we went by Mister Donut. Just wanting to take a peek at what they sold (Donuts duh?!) we ended up with more food.....
"Super Nihon" rating for the day: 6/10 - Dinner was too awesome...
Thursday, December 17, 2009
Day 1 in Nihon!
1.20pm: Touch down in Narita Airport. Yokoso!!!!
Unfortunately, the flight this morning was too blarddy early for me to get excited. Especially when silly NWA didnt put 2 passengers who booked together, seats together. I politely asked the kind bloke beside me to switch with Hei and he obliged. 6 hour flight and I managed to only watch 1 movie "Up". Took me 3 tries, keep falling asleep in between. But its good I suppose, journey seemed much shorter.
A cold rush of kaza (wind) came into contact with my face and I was instantly awaken. It was a breeze collecting our luggages and taking the limosine bus. We also found the inn quite easily.
Sasano-san (the inn keeper) was really nice in showing us the room and giving us brief directions on where to go.
Now. Before I came, I had this vision that all the Japanese Ive learnt came back to me and I spoke Japanese with confidence but as Sasano-san was struggling to speak to us in English. All I could managed was a smile and nod. Stupid Eying, you returned everything you learned.
Hei and I put our things away and explored the area we stayed in.
Food No. 1: Tori on a stick, Tori Skin on a stick, Tori and Leeks on a stick. Price 370yen.
We found the metro and took a ride into central Tokyo to buy our disney tickets. That went pretty well. But for 10,000 yen per person, I better cry more than I did in Orlando when I steped in.
Food No. 1: Ramen with Chashu. Price 2150 yen.
We pulled ourselves out of Daimaru and walked along the streets, stopped by a couple of restaurants but the menus were all in Japanese so I didn't dare to go in. A waiter in one of the (what we thought was shabu shabu) restaurant walked our and uttered a bunch of Japanese. After realising we were not responding, he asked "Chugoku desu ka?". I know whats that! I replied with confidence "Iie, Shingapuru desu". He smiled and I then asked "Ramen desu ka?". Im sure Akai-Sinsei (my japanese teacher) would shake his head in despair at what I failure I turned out to be.
The nice waiter said he had no ramen and pointed down the street. I didnt understand the language but pointing is universal. We trudged down and went into the first store with a ramen picture.
Food No. 3: Freshness Burger - Classic Burger. Price 420yen
Lydia and Echiing told us about it and we stumbled upon it on the way to the nearby supermarket. We had just ate a huge bowl of ramen but thats not gonna stop us. At least not my husband. The onions were grilled nicely but after a heavy dinner, all I could stomach was a small bite.
"Super Nihon" rating for the day: 5/10 --> tired from the early morning flight.
Unfortunately, the flight this morning was too blarddy early for me to get excited. Especially when silly NWA didnt put 2 passengers who booked together, seats together. I politely asked the kind bloke beside me to switch with Hei and he obliged. 6 hour flight and I managed to only watch 1 movie "Up". Took me 3 tries, keep falling asleep in between. But its good I suppose, journey seemed much shorter.
A cold rush of kaza (wind) came into contact with my face and I was instantly awaken. It was a breeze collecting our luggages and taking the limosine bus. We also found the inn quite easily.
Sasano-san (the inn keeper) was really nice in showing us the room and giving us brief directions on where to go.
Now. Before I came, I had this vision that all the Japanese Ive learnt came back to me and I spoke Japanese with confidence but as Sasano-san was struggling to speak to us in English. All I could managed was a smile and nod. Stupid Eying, you returned everything you learned.
Hei and I put our things away and explored the area we stayed in.
Food No. 1: Tori on a stick, Tori Skin on a stick, Tori and Leeks on a stick. Price 370yen.
We found the metro and took a ride into central Tokyo to buy our disney tickets. That went pretty well. But for 10,000 yen per person, I better cry more than I did in Orlando when I steped in.
Food No. 1: Ramen with Chashu. Price 2150 yen.
We pulled ourselves out of Daimaru and walked along the streets, stopped by a couple of restaurants but the menus were all in Japanese so I didn't dare to go in. A waiter in one of the (what we thought was shabu shabu) restaurant walked our and uttered a bunch of Japanese. After realising we were not responding, he asked "Chugoku desu ka?". I know whats that! I replied with confidence "Iie, Shingapuru desu". He smiled and I then asked "Ramen desu ka?". Im sure Akai-Sinsei (my japanese teacher) would shake his head in despair at what I failure I turned out to be.
The nice waiter said he had no ramen and pointed down the street. I didnt understand the language but pointing is universal. We trudged down and went into the first store with a ramen picture.
Food No. 3: Freshness Burger - Classic Burger. Price 420yen
Lydia and Echiing told us about it and we stumbled upon it on the way to the nearby supermarket. We had just ate a huge bowl of ramen but thats not gonna stop us. At least not my husband. The onions were grilled nicely but after a heavy dinner, all I could stomach was a small bite.
"Super Nihon" rating for the day: 5/10 --> tired from the early morning flight.
Sunday, December 13, 2009
The little things
I just watching Asian Food Channel and they were showing the program "One night with Daniel Boulud". Apparently he is some top chef and he was here in Singapore for the first time.
While I was watching the program, the program featured other chef including one that is close to my heart, Chef Cristof (not sure if I spelt it correctly).
About 10 years ago, I was an intern at a small event company. One of the events I helped out was a dinner held at Ritz Carlton. At the event, I was really busy and didnt get any dinner at all. Chef Christof came by once to my event at around 8.00pm to make sure the dinner was going well, our eyes met and he asked if I had eaten. I shooked my head and said I have been busy working.
15 mins later, a hotel staff came by to the reception desk where I was with a steaming bowl of Wanton Noodles Soup. I have been fairly hungry but just didnt have time to eat or have anything to eat. I told the hotel staff that I didnt order any food (and was worried because with the meagre $500 montly "salary", I couldnt afford what could easily be $20 wanton mee").
"Compliments from Chef Christof"
I had tears in my eyes and I couldnt believe what could possibly be the executive chef of the hotel that he cared if I had eaten or not. I finished every strand of noodles, every drop of soup and every piece of wanton. It was the best I have ever eaten.
Chef Cristof came by again at around 9ish to make sure that the noodles was delivered to me. I thanked him and for that moment, wanted to even marry him. Mrs Christof wouldnt be that bad right?
Sometimes isnt it just the smallest gesture that touches your heart?
While I was watching the program, the program featured other chef including one that is close to my heart, Chef Cristof (not sure if I spelt it correctly).
About 10 years ago, I was an intern at a small event company. One of the events I helped out was a dinner held at Ritz Carlton. At the event, I was really busy and didnt get any dinner at all. Chef Christof came by once to my event at around 8.00pm to make sure the dinner was going well, our eyes met and he asked if I had eaten. I shooked my head and said I have been busy working.
15 mins later, a hotel staff came by to the reception desk where I was with a steaming bowl of Wanton Noodles Soup. I have been fairly hungry but just didnt have time to eat or have anything to eat. I told the hotel staff that I didnt order any food (and was worried because with the meagre $500 montly "salary", I couldnt afford what could easily be $20 wanton mee").
"Compliments from Chef Christof"
I had tears in my eyes and I couldnt believe what could possibly be the executive chef of the hotel that he cared if I had eaten or not. I finished every strand of noodles, every drop of soup and every piece of wanton. It was the best I have ever eaten.
Chef Cristof came by again at around 9ish to make sure that the noodles was delivered to me. I thanked him and for that moment, wanted to even marry him. Mrs Christof wouldnt be that bad right?
Sometimes isnt it just the smallest gesture that touches your heart?
Tuesday, October 06, 2009
Its probably not the same for everyone, I find a mother's voice one of the most comforting sounds. Was told before that I share an awesome relationship with my mother and I usually shrug it off. Because I thought its the same for everyone. Dont everyone get along with their mother? Afterall, we live in her for 9 months.
Must say, mom and I didn't always get along. I admit I was a difficult child; spoilt by daddy and grandma and was stubborn as a mule. My mum was just being mother-like; strict and protective and always thinks she is right! (Though, most times in my tweens, she probably were. Dont tell her that).
But it got so much better as I grew older, I take her "criticisms" less personally and she was less uptight about all the mistakes I may make. Today, yes, we still get into fights, she still complains about me to me and gives me the staredown when she disagree with my actions. Nonetheless, we hardly at all bear grudges (i secretly thinks she does though *smiles*).
This evening I called my mummy as I was grocery shopping - asking her what is the ideal soup for a post cataract surgery patient ie. Blacksman. She gave me a couple tips and we hung up the phone. Somehow, that telephone conversation made me smile. It was just a comfort to hear my mom's voice. Its like I know I can rely on her for anything.
Thanks Mum for everything.
Must say, mom and I didn't always get along. I admit I was a difficult child; spoilt by daddy and grandma and was stubborn as a mule. My mum was just being mother-like; strict and protective and always thinks she is right! (Though, most times in my tweens, she probably were. Dont tell her that).
But it got so much better as I grew older, I take her "criticisms" less personally and she was less uptight about all the mistakes I may make. Today, yes, we still get into fights, she still complains about me to me and gives me the staredown when she disagree with my actions. Nonetheless, we hardly at all bear grudges (i secretly thinks she does though *smiles*).
This evening I called my mummy as I was grocery shopping - asking her what is the ideal soup for a post cataract surgery patient ie. Blacksman. She gave me a couple tips and we hung up the phone. Somehow, that telephone conversation made me smile. It was just a comfort to hear my mom's voice. Its like I know I can rely on her for anything.
Thanks Mum for everything.
Sunday, September 27, 2009
Seriously. First we crown a Ms Singapore World who can't speak English to save her life. Then we find out that she is a fraudster who has 60 impending charges of credit card fruad against her.
But we still glorify her by giving her a 2 FULL PAGE spread in the main paper of Sunday times.
What's up with our newspaper?
Beauty Peagant winner. Fraudster. And now Bi-polar. How much attention are we going to give this woman. I rather the newspaper interview the needy of Singapore. The good deeds of any particular Singapore. Anything but her. Let the news die, take the spotlight away. Can't you see you are just feeding her desires?
Seriously. We need to move on and focus on more significant issues. Otherwise, we will just be like her. BOOMZ.
But we still glorify her by giving her a 2 FULL PAGE spread in the main paper of Sunday times.
What's up with our newspaper?
Beauty Peagant winner. Fraudster. And now Bi-polar. How much attention are we going to give this woman. I rather the newspaper interview the needy of Singapore. The good deeds of any particular Singapore. Anything but her. Let the news die, take the spotlight away. Can't you see you are just feeding her desires?
Seriously. We need to move on and focus on more significant issues. Otherwise, we will just be like her. BOOMZ.
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Who are we to laugh at Ris Low?
Because we are Singapore.
Because Ris Low is representing Singapore.
Because I believe deep down, no matter how much we complained about this country, we are patriots and we are proud of the achievements from this little fishing village.
I admit I am guilty. I was one of those who viewed the video interview of Miss Singapore World 09, Ris Low, and laughed. Mostly, I was appalled at how she won.
But after reading last Sunday's newspaper, I was even more taken aback by the words of Ms Jennifer Yin, Head secretariat of the Speak Good English Movement.
"If you can't speak good English, don't even attempt to speak to them in broken English..." makes me wonder how old Ms Yin is. I am in my late 20s and many of our parents in my generation did not have the priviledge of higher education. Their English is not fluent and their Mother Tongue may not be perfect. Is Ms Yin insuitating that our parents then do not speak to us at all? Isn't it through every day communication, every day use that you improve your language skills?
What consitutes good English? Do we pronouce every syllable or do we attempt to speak with an accent? Singlish like all other "forms" of English is a slang. It is a nationalistic way of speaking in Singapore. Much like the local slang of Australia, USA and UK. I am sure Singaporeans are not criticising that Ms Ris Low speaks Singlish but her pronouniciation was appaling and her diction was unclear.
Ms Yin also mentioned that she hears Ms Low's speech patterns on the train from young people. Well, I am not sure what train she has been on (probably another planet) but from where I came from (Singapore), young people do not say "rad", "preens" or "zip-bra".
While it is heartwarming to read Ms Tracy Lee defending Ms Ris Low, I do disagree with her statement that "this is a beauty contest". We need to remember that beauty contests as such are also platforms to showcase Singapore to the rest of the world. We may not win. We may not even get to semi-finals. But who we send is a representation of our country. She will have the chance to network with representatives from other countries. She will serve as an ambassador of our nation.
Do we want other countries to know Singapore as one that "boomz"?
Because Ris Low is representing Singapore.
Because I believe deep down, no matter how much we complained about this country, we are patriots and we are proud of the achievements from this little fishing village.
I admit I am guilty. I was one of those who viewed the video interview of Miss Singapore World 09, Ris Low, and laughed. Mostly, I was appalled at how she won.
But after reading last Sunday's newspaper, I was even more taken aback by the words of Ms Jennifer Yin, Head secretariat of the Speak Good English Movement.
"If you can't speak good English, don't even attempt to speak to them in broken English..." makes me wonder how old Ms Yin is. I am in my late 20s and many of our parents in my generation did not have the priviledge of higher education. Their English is not fluent and their Mother Tongue may not be perfect. Is Ms Yin insuitating that our parents then do not speak to us at all? Isn't it through every day communication, every day use that you improve your language skills?
What consitutes good English? Do we pronouce every syllable or do we attempt to speak with an accent? Singlish like all other "forms" of English is a slang. It is a nationalistic way of speaking in Singapore. Much like the local slang of Australia, USA and UK. I am sure Singaporeans are not criticising that Ms Ris Low speaks Singlish but her pronouniciation was appaling and her diction was unclear.
Ms Yin also mentioned that she hears Ms Low's speech patterns on the train from young people. Well, I am not sure what train she has been on (probably another planet) but from where I came from (Singapore), young people do not say "rad", "preens" or "zip-bra".
While it is heartwarming to read Ms Tracy Lee defending Ms Ris Low, I do disagree with her statement that "this is a beauty contest". We need to remember that beauty contests as such are also platforms to showcase Singapore to the rest of the world. We may not win. We may not even get to semi-finals. But who we send is a representation of our country. She will have the chance to network with representatives from other countries. She will serve as an ambassador of our nation.
Do we want other countries to know Singapore as one that "boomz"?
Sunday, August 30, 2009
I hardly blog these days. Lack of time, no inspiration, pure laziness.
But today, I stumbled upon the video on Singapore's representative for Miss Universe and god she is stupid. Stupid and not that pretty. The picture of her on the Miss Universe website looks like a porn star, she can pass of as a ka-toi and her video interview shows how stupid she is.
Rachel Kum is her name - should change it to Rachel KUM-GONG.
If you have 3 wishes, what would they be.
1) My first wish is wishing happiness for myself.
2) My second wish is wishing happiness for all mankind. - Stupidity starting to show.
3) My third wish is wishing to have more wishes!
OMG, and she is a manager in the medical industry. HELP!
But today, I stumbled upon the video on Singapore's representative for Miss Universe and god she is stupid. Stupid and not that pretty. The picture of her on the Miss Universe website looks like a porn star, she can pass of as a ka-toi and her video interview shows how stupid she is.
Rachel Kum is her name - should change it to Rachel KUM-GONG.
If you have 3 wishes, what would they be.
1) My first wish is wishing happiness for myself.
2) My second wish is wishing happiness for all mankind. - Stupidity starting to show.
3) My third wish is wishing to have more wishes!
OMG, and she is a manager in the medical industry. HELP!
Sunday, August 16, 2009
Where got ghost?
Hei and I went to watch "Where got ghost" on Friday night. Its a new local production by Jack Neo.
3 ghost stories with comedic elements in them. Well, it wasn't that good, or that funny plus the animation really sucked, but all in all, i thought the idea behind it was quite good. Its quite an enjoyable film.
This morning was Singapore Bay Run/Army Half Marathon. It was my worst yet, but attribute to a diarrorea that occured in my 3km mark - resulted in a 20 min bomb at the first toilet (2 km away). Lousy because at i started, i really thought i would do quite well this time.
Not disappointed with myself, but wonder what holds for me the next time i do this.
Anyway, this is my favourite trailer by far. You know how normally before a movie starts, you get the trailer that ask you to turn your phone to silent. This is a funny one.
3 ghost stories with comedic elements in them. Well, it wasn't that good, or that funny plus the animation really sucked, but all in all, i thought the idea behind it was quite good. Its quite an enjoyable film.
This morning was Singapore Bay Run/Army Half Marathon. It was my worst yet, but attribute to a diarrorea that occured in my 3km mark - resulted in a 20 min bomb at the first toilet (2 km away). Lousy because at i started, i really thought i would do quite well this time.
Not disappointed with myself, but wonder what holds for me the next time i do this.
Anyway, this is my favourite trailer by far. You know how normally before a movie starts, you get the trailer that ask you to turn your phone to silent. This is a funny one.
Saturday, August 15, 2009
Tell me what you think about this.
This evening, Hei and I went on a dinner date at Himawari. A Japanese restaurant that serve ala carte buffet - includes shabu shabu and sukiyaki. Yums.
Anyway. Sitting next to us a group of 9 adults and 1 toddler. When Hei and I arrive, there was only 1 lady sitting at the table and when asked how many people will be coming, she said "8 adults, all buffet".
Soon after, her group of friends arrived and I noticed there were 9 adults instead of the original 8 she mentioned.
Then i realised 2 of her friends brought their domestic helper and what I thought was rather appaling was that the domestic helper did not eat. She was just busy feeding the toddler.
So the woman was right, 8 adult buffet dinner.
In this scenario, would you have just invited the domestic helper to have dinner together? I would. Hei would too.
Granted that it was about $40 per person, but if you are to bring your domestic helper out, why would you make her sit there just to watch you eat?
That's just cruel.
This evening, Hei and I went on a dinner date at Himawari. A Japanese restaurant that serve ala carte buffet - includes shabu shabu and sukiyaki. Yums.
Anyway. Sitting next to us a group of 9 adults and 1 toddler. When Hei and I arrive, there was only 1 lady sitting at the table and when asked how many people will be coming, she said "8 adults, all buffet".
Soon after, her group of friends arrived and I noticed there were 9 adults instead of the original 8 she mentioned.
Then i realised 2 of her friends brought their domestic helper and what I thought was rather appaling was that the domestic helper did not eat. She was just busy feeding the toddler.
So the woman was right, 8 adult buffet dinner.
In this scenario, would you have just invited the domestic helper to have dinner together? I would. Hei would too.
Granted that it was about $40 per person, but if you are to bring your domestic helper out, why would you make her sit there just to watch you eat?
That's just cruel.
Monday, August 10, 2009
The DeMercurio Family left last Saturday on the morning flight back to Melbourne.
Although it was not the first time that Lin left Singapore, she cried as she hugged us good bye. Chiing cried, Ah-Ma Wee cried.
But the most heart wrenching moment was for me to see tears rolling down A-Gong Wee's cheeks as well. This is a father who has sent 3 daughters away to study and for the first time, he can't bear to see someone off.
"You make A-Gong so happy" - thats a phrase I hear so often the last 2 weeks.
I was the heartless one. Devoid of all feelings.
I wonder should 1 day I have a child, would A-Gong Wee say the same to my son/daughter?
Although it was not the first time that Lin left Singapore, she cried as she hugged us good bye. Chiing cried, Ah-Ma Wee cried.
But the most heart wrenching moment was for me to see tears rolling down A-Gong Wee's cheeks as well. This is a father who has sent 3 daughters away to study and for the first time, he can't bear to see someone off.
"You make A-Gong so happy" - thats a phrase I hear so often the last 2 weeks.
I was the heartless one. Devoid of all feelings.
I wonder should 1 day I have a child, would A-Gong Wee say the same to my son/daughter?
On the lovely Saturday afternoon after we came back from Hong Kong, the Wee Family welcome back the DeMercurio Family. Bruno, Teresa, Mark, Lin and of course, little lovely Aless. A fan club of about 11 people waited (some more impatient than others) at the arrival gate and when they finally walked out of the gate, A-Gong Wee couldn't help but lunge little Aless into his arms.
The moment was magical as we watched A-Gong Wee's eyes twinkle as he played with his BOY.
After 20 mins of hugging, "hi-s" and "how-are-you", I finally managed to come up with a plan and whisked everyone to the car.
However, in the midst of happiness, the Tay family received grim news. Senior Tay was in the hospital again for a fever that won't subside. It was serious this time. The following week was then spent shuttling between work, Chelsea and SGH.
The Tay family is amazing. For a family who don't share affection openly like the Wees, when it comes time to band together, they really band together. All the sibling respected what each had to say and their strength for each other really shows. Each also know his/her own role and how to carry their duties out.
Unfortunately on Friday, 1st August 2009, at 6.41am, Senior Tay couldn't hang on to life anymore and passed away.
Hei broke down.
And my heart ached.
Nonetheless, the Tays came together again, united as ONE. The funeral proceedings when through smoothly without a hitch.
One night as we laied in bed, Hei said something that got me thinking; "Isn't it weird how your family is celebrating life while mine is moaning for death?"
The Wees was throwing a party for A-Gong Wee's 60th, Aless's 2nd, Lin's 35 and Teresa (dunno).
That's life isn't it?
The moment was magical as we watched A-Gong Wee's eyes twinkle as he played with his BOY.
After 20 mins of hugging, "hi-s" and "how-are-you", I finally managed to come up with a plan and whisked everyone to the car.
However, in the midst of happiness, the Tay family received grim news. Senior Tay was in the hospital again for a fever that won't subside. It was serious this time. The following week was then spent shuttling between work, Chelsea and SGH.
The Tay family is amazing. For a family who don't share affection openly like the Wees, when it comes time to band together, they really band together. All the sibling respected what each had to say and their strength for each other really shows. Each also know his/her own role and how to carry their duties out.
Unfortunately on Friday, 1st August 2009, at 6.41am, Senior Tay couldn't hang on to life anymore and passed away.
Hei broke down.
And my heart ached.
Nonetheless, the Tays came together again, united as ONE. The funeral proceedings when through smoothly without a hitch.
One night as we laied in bed, Hei said something that got me thinking; "Isn't it weird how your family is celebrating life while mine is moaning for death?"
The Wees was throwing a party for A-Gong Wee's 60th, Aless's 2nd, Lin's 35 and Teresa (dunno).
That's life isn't it?
Friday, July 17, 2009
My first blog entry from my iPhone. Mebbe first let me talk bout it a bit. I love it. My phone is not only entertaining, it's alson intelligent and interactive. This phone really makes u loge it a little more everyday. Well done apple. Good job.
It's been a while since I last blog. So long that I can't really recall what has happen since then.
Hei and I r going to hong kong on Sunday for 4 days! It's been a year and a half since we came back from USA and our first holiday since being back. I am so freaking excited man. So excited yet so unsure what we r gonna do there. He hasn't been to hk before and I've only been once before for work so it's almost the first time as well. So exciting.
It seems to be a relationship season. I'm was sorry to hear that 4 of my friends broke up with their partners but hearten to learn that 1 is in like and dating and 1 is in love. I'm still in love. With mr blackman. Althouh he does irritates me as I do him but we r good. Great. Awesome. Perfect.
This is me in the morning on the train. Random thoughts.
Till another long train ride. Over and out
It's been a while since I last blog. So long that I can't really recall what has happen since then.
Hei and I r going to hong kong on Sunday for 4 days! It's been a year and a half since we came back from USA and our first holiday since being back. I am so freaking excited man. So excited yet so unsure what we r gonna do there. He hasn't been to hk before and I've only been once before for work so it's almost the first time as well. So exciting.
It seems to be a relationship season. I'm was sorry to hear that 4 of my friends broke up with their partners but hearten to learn that 1 is in like and dating and 1 is in love. I'm still in love. With mr blackman. Althouh he does irritates me as I do him but we r good. Great. Awesome. Perfect.
This is me in the morning on the train. Random thoughts.
Till another long train ride. Over and out
Sunday, June 28, 2009
On Friday dawn, I woke up to an SMS from Elin that says "MJ is dead. Dont feel so sad ok?". For a moment, I was shocked. Running through my head was the person that MJ stands for. I thought of my Grandma but we didnt call her MJ. Sleepiness got the better of my, i shrug it off and went back to bed.
It was only after I trule woke up then i realise, she must mean Michael Jackson.
And if you are wondering why my sister will ask me not to feel too sad. That's cos I was a HUGE fan of MJ. Michael Jackson was born 29 August 1958. I was born 1 September 1982. Because our birthdays are only 2 days apart, as a kid, I always thought him and I have a special connection.
Michael was my first love. I sang his songs. I wore his t-shirt (til it faded). I went to his concert. I taped over Echiing's beloved Madonna's Immaculate concert with Michael's B&W MTV. I even cried when those stupid children sued him for molestation. And every year for my birthday, my wish was to go to Neverland Ranch.
"Man in the Mirror" was my favourite song. And in those days with where Internet was not available, I wrote his lyrics down while listening to the song again and again.
As a kid, I never imagine Michael growing old. Or dying. He was 50 when he died.
Over the entire weekend, I watched documentaries of Michael, news coverage of his passing and his music videos...something rekindled inside. And guilt rushed over me because I felt that I had abandoned him for the past 10 - 15 years.
I am sorry. And rest in peace. You are to me what Elvis is to my dad and tho I am not as fanatical, you were my first love. Even before Heartbreak Kid Shawn Michaels. =)
It was only after I trule woke up then i realise, she must mean Michael Jackson.
And if you are wondering why my sister will ask me not to feel too sad. That's cos I was a HUGE fan of MJ. Michael Jackson was born 29 August 1958. I was born 1 September 1982. Because our birthdays are only 2 days apart, as a kid, I always thought him and I have a special connection.
Michael was my first love. I sang his songs. I wore his t-shirt (til it faded). I went to his concert. I taped over Echiing's beloved Madonna's Immaculate concert with Michael's B&W MTV. I even cried when those stupid children sued him for molestation. And every year for my birthday, my wish was to go to Neverland Ranch.
"Man in the Mirror" was my favourite song. And in those days with where Internet was not available, I wrote his lyrics down while listening to the song again and again.
As a kid, I never imagine Michael growing old. Or dying. He was 50 when he died.
Over the entire weekend, I watched documentaries of Michael, news coverage of his passing and his music videos...something rekindled inside. And guilt rushed over me because I felt that I had abandoned him for the past 10 - 15 years.
I am sorry. And rest in peace. You are to me what Elvis is to my dad and tho I am not as fanatical, you were my first love. Even before Heartbreak Kid Shawn Michaels. =)
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Sunday, June 21, 2009
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