Friday, August 29, 2008
Wedding Stickers
A girlfriend asked me where to get wedding stickers and I chanced upon this shop named Sunshine at People's Park Centre. It sells the word "Xixi" in sticker form and there are various sizes too. The shop also sells traditional tea sets and other accessories for Chinese weddings.
Friday, August 22, 2008
Living stylishly
Ways to enjoy life without spending a cent:
Get engrossed in a good book.
Taking scenic drives
A massage from a friend after a hard day's work
Having friends over for tea
Being creative
Snuggling under the covers in bed on a cold, rainy day
If it is your treat at a posh restaurant, make it lunch instead of dinner. Lunchtime set meals and buffets can be almost a third cheaper than dinner, saving you a bucket of money.
Ways to get things for free:
Take part in every contest available to win that dream car, condo or holiday.
Look out for goodie bag giveaways at exhibition and product launches.
Ask for anything nicely, with a "please" and a smile.
Swap or barter with friends.
Get free makeovers at cosmetic counters and ask for samples afterwards.
Things to do:
Bond with your pet.
Watch a ballet
"You are a child of God. Your playing small doesn't serve the world." Little sparks of kindness can build a roaring fire.
Write a journal entry every day.
Indulge yourself by hosting a "Night of Guilty Pleasures" for you and your closest friends. For entertainment, view DVD films, play games and take many photos.
Go for vintage books, scour second-hand bookstores for classics at much cheaper rates.
Get engrossed in a good book.
Taking scenic drives
A massage from a friend after a hard day's work
Having friends over for tea
Being creative
Snuggling under the covers in bed on a cold, rainy day
If it is your treat at a posh restaurant, make it lunch instead of dinner. Lunchtime set meals and buffets can be almost a third cheaper than dinner, saving you a bucket of money.
Ways to get things for free:
Take part in every contest available to win that dream car, condo or holiday.
Look out for goodie bag giveaways at exhibition and product launches.
Ask for anything nicely, with a "please" and a smile.
Swap or barter with friends.
Get free makeovers at cosmetic counters and ask for samples afterwards.
Things to do:
Bond with your pet.
Watch a ballet
"You are a child of God. Your playing small doesn't serve the world." Little sparks of kindness can build a roaring fire.
Write a journal entry every day.
Indulge yourself by hosting a "Night of Guilty Pleasures" for you and your closest friends. For entertainment, view DVD films, play games and take many photos.
Go for vintage books, scour second-hand bookstores for classics at much cheaper rates.
Sun Plaza
This shopping mall in Sembawang estate has been there for a very long time but I explored the place rather thoroughly for the very first time today. It is a rather good place to be at for the whole family.
There is a cineplex on the top floor while Kopitiam and Sembawang Community Library are on the floor below, which are juxtaposed with shops like Sembawang CD store, 2 gift shops, Yamaha and Mount Zion Christian Book Store. The stalls in the food court sell various types of food. I recommend the Roasted Delights stall. The Roasted Duck Rice is a good choice. The only thing lacking is Malay/Indian food. The CD store is having a sale, like its other branches in other malls while the Christian Book Store is good for Christian literature and inspirational cards/ bookmarks. They are selling 3 Pass It On cards for $1.
The library is way too noisy for adults to have a good read or relaxation there. Students from the different neighbourhood schools flock to use the computers there. They make such a ruckus by playing or talking loudly to one another, oblivious to the irate stares of the people around them. Their parents stand near them but are indifferent to their antics. They probably think it is the librarian's job to get them to keep silent! Such useless parents. I was so close to getting them to shush. The librarian spoke to two of them to ask them to leave. I heard one of them scolding his friend for getting him into such a situation even though they were outside. Also, the magazines on display are rather limited in range and the teenage as well as adult collections are located in shelves seemingly cramped together and yet in a haphazard manner, in the middle of the library.
The storey below has shops like Popular/CD-Rama, This Fashion(a rather small and cramped shop though), Singtel and Sakae Sushi. The 1st floor is not very impressive while B1 has outlets like Central Bakery, Fast Food Delights(the Otah smells so fragrant and there are items like Kueh Tutu and Cup Corn), Eu Yan Sang, Mr Bean, Bangawan Solo, NTUC, and Guardian Pharmacy.
There is a cineplex on the top floor while Kopitiam and Sembawang Community Library are on the floor below, which are juxtaposed with shops like Sembawang CD store, 2 gift shops, Yamaha and Mount Zion Christian Book Store. The stalls in the food court sell various types of food. I recommend the Roasted Delights stall. The Roasted Duck Rice is a good choice. The only thing lacking is Malay/Indian food. The CD store is having a sale, like its other branches in other malls while the Christian Book Store is good for Christian literature and inspirational cards/ bookmarks. They are selling 3 Pass It On cards for $1.
The library is way too noisy for adults to have a good read or relaxation there. Students from the different neighbourhood schools flock to use the computers there. They make such a ruckus by playing or talking loudly to one another, oblivious to the irate stares of the people around them. Their parents stand near them but are indifferent to their antics. They probably think it is the librarian's job to get them to keep silent! Such useless parents. I was so close to getting them to shush. The librarian spoke to two of them to ask them to leave. I heard one of them scolding his friend for getting him into such a situation even though they were outside. Also, the magazines on display are rather limited in range and the teenage as well as adult collections are located in shelves seemingly cramped together and yet in a haphazard manner, in the middle of the library.
The storey below has shops like Popular/CD-Rama, This Fashion(a rather small and cramped shop though), Singtel and Sakae Sushi. The 1st floor is not very impressive while B1 has outlets like Central Bakery, Fast Food Delights(the Otah smells so fragrant and there are items like Kueh Tutu and Cup Corn), Eu Yan Sang, Mr Bean, Bangawan Solo, NTUC, and Guardian Pharmacy.
Chinese New Year 2008
Lin Ying, this is for you. :P I like a rather quiet Chinese New Year and this year's season was just that. I don't like having many people gather at my house which isn't very big, and having to serve them with drinks and goodies. Being the daughter of the family means having to help my parents do this.
We had our reunion dinner two nights before Chinese New Year and this is really more convenient. We get to order food from the menu and not a meal made up of many courses, when there are only 5 of us in our family. We save on price and quantity in this way. Raw Fish Salad was obviously one of the items.
On the eve, I had dinner with my parents, since my brother and sister-in-law had to go back to her family for reunion dinner. We had Peranakan food since my dad is a Baba. Then I watched the annual variety show by Mediacorp. This year's show was really dull and even the other show on Channel U sponsored by Carlberg was dull too. I noticed some celebrities appearing on both shows. I wondered how they could rush to both shows when the shows were filmed at the same time. Perhaps the venues were near to each other.
What I like to notice in this annual show is the outfits they wear as well as the festivities at Chinatown. These two segments didn't really disappoint. I try to stay up as late as possible due to this belief that it will give my parents a long life. I know it isn't true but I still do out of filial piety. I stayed till after 3am. I watched a period drama movie starring Cecilia Cheung and Louis Koo. This love story was really moving and it brought me to tears, being the sentimentalist I am.
On the first day, I went for mass to pray for blessings. It's usual to wear new clothes too. I wore a dress I had bought from China. I felt elegant as I went out in it. Then upon reaching home, I gave my parents a red packet. Though I'm unmarried, it is filial to give one to them. I spent the whole day at home just watching television programmes and surfing the Internet. It may sound boring to some people but I like this type of quiet celebration. My parents went to their friends' place in the night but as I dislike crowds, I refrained from joining them. The wonderful thing is that I still got many red packets via my parents.
On the second day, I went for lunch with my parents and we ate another round of Raw Fish Salad. Then I went to my cousin's place and I had a greedy time gobbling down New Year goodies. :P I liked this visit because it was a small group of 4 people. We stayed for dinner before going home. I got more red packets on the third day when I went for choir.
I also shared some of my own goodies with my non-Chinese friends. It is a joy giving. All in all, I am glad I maintained the total amount of money I have always received from my red packets, even though I am older now.
We had our reunion dinner two nights before Chinese New Year and this is really more convenient. We get to order food from the menu and not a meal made up of many courses, when there are only 5 of us in our family. We save on price and quantity in this way. Raw Fish Salad was obviously one of the items.
On the eve, I had dinner with my parents, since my brother and sister-in-law had to go back to her family for reunion dinner. We had Peranakan food since my dad is a Baba. Then I watched the annual variety show by Mediacorp. This year's show was really dull and even the other show on Channel U sponsored by Carlberg was dull too. I noticed some celebrities appearing on both shows. I wondered how they could rush to both shows when the shows were filmed at the same time. Perhaps the venues were near to each other.
What I like to notice in this annual show is the outfits they wear as well as the festivities at Chinatown. These two segments didn't really disappoint. I try to stay up as late as possible due to this belief that it will give my parents a long life. I know it isn't true but I still do out of filial piety. I stayed till after 3am. I watched a period drama movie starring Cecilia Cheung and Louis Koo. This love story was really moving and it brought me to tears, being the sentimentalist I am.
On the first day, I went for mass to pray for blessings. It's usual to wear new clothes too. I wore a dress I had bought from China. I felt elegant as I went out in it. Then upon reaching home, I gave my parents a red packet. Though I'm unmarried, it is filial to give one to them. I spent the whole day at home just watching television programmes and surfing the Internet. It may sound boring to some people but I like this type of quiet celebration. My parents went to their friends' place in the night but as I dislike crowds, I refrained from joining them. The wonderful thing is that I still got many red packets via my parents.
On the second day, I went for lunch with my parents and we ate another round of Raw Fish Salad. Then I went to my cousin's place and I had a greedy time gobbling down New Year goodies. :P I liked this visit because it was a small group of 4 people. We stayed for dinner before going home. I got more red packets on the third day when I went for choir.
I also shared some of my own goodies with my non-Chinese friends. It is a joy giving. All in all, I am glad I maintained the total amount of money I have always received from my red packets, even though I am older now.
Different cultures are used to different codes of dressing
A half-naked foreigner was seen at a MRT station and this evoked various reactions. Perhaps Singapore, being an Asian country, is unused to such 'free' and "casual" dressing. I have a friend who is residing in Perth and he told me that some of the men over there do take trains with merely their bermudas, due to the extremely hot and dry climate. I guess personal comfort takes precedence over codes of dressing for them.
Numerous degrees
Mr Alvin Tan has at least three to four degrees under his belt. He studied for another after having attained a double-degree. He then did another one before he stepped out into the working world. He is just another one out of the graduates who have more than one degree as their qualifications.
I had the intention to obtain another degree after my Literature degree. I wanted to either go for a Masters' degree in the same course, do a Linguistics degree, a History degree or even a Psychology degree, since I deal with children and youths. Certificates in Teaching were also on my agenda. However, I think I have to give this up since it requires finance, time and effort. I don't have the luxury of the former, which is really the essentiality here.
I had the intention to obtain another degree after my Literature degree. I wanted to either go for a Masters' degree in the same course, do a Linguistics degree, a History degree or even a Psychology degree, since I deal with children and youths. Certificates in Teaching were also on my agenda. However, I think I have to give this up since it requires finance, time and effort. I don't have the luxury of the former, which is really the essentiality here.
The power of books
Tan Shzr Ee wrote in the Straits Times about her intense passion for books. I share the same passion and I devour most genres, like chic-lit, spirituality, cookery, self-improvement, legends, mysteries, horror and fairy-cum-princess stories. I even venture into Chinese books, primarily on self-improvement. This is excluding women's magazines. As a result, I have acquired a great sense of knowledge which I share with others when I feel the need to.
She brings them with her to cafes and I too, must have at least one book or magazine when I go out. I take them out to read when I am on the bus or train, and when I eat alone. It helps me feel less insecure especially when I eat alone. I especially love reading magazines when I'm waiting for my turn at the doctor or dentist, and while I'm having my hair styled at the hair salon. The issues range from a couple of years to a month back. I usually go for the local ones though. The foreign ones seem exactly that to me.
She has some unfinished books and that makes two of us. Some books I buy look interesting only when I chance upon it while browsing but when I actually read it at home, it is too profound. Others are bought as a rash decision and later evoke regret in me. She also mentioned no obligation to pursue these relationships but as I'm a serialistic learner, I feel the obligation to. I can't read more than one book at one time and even if I attempt to do otherwise, my unfinished books will haunt my mind. I must finish one before embarking on the next literary journey.
When I read the same book another time, I discover new insights and the narrative becomes clearer. Mysteries become easier to unravel. It is more convenient for her to have a buffet of books but due to my free time, I can be a serialist. I like it this way.
She brings them with her to cafes and I too, must have at least one book or magazine when I go out. I take them out to read when I am on the bus or train, and when I eat alone. It helps me feel less insecure especially when I eat alone. I especially love reading magazines when I'm waiting for my turn at the doctor or dentist, and while I'm having my hair styled at the hair salon. The issues range from a couple of years to a month back. I usually go for the local ones though. The foreign ones seem exactly that to me.
She has some unfinished books and that makes two of us. Some books I buy look interesting only when I chance upon it while browsing but when I actually read it at home, it is too profound. Others are bought as a rash decision and later evoke regret in me. She also mentioned no obligation to pursue these relationships but as I'm a serialistic learner, I feel the obligation to. I can't read more than one book at one time and even if I attempt to do otherwise, my unfinished books will haunt my mind. I must finish one before embarking on the next literary journey.
When I read the same book another time, I discover new insights and the narrative becomes clearer. Mysteries become easier to unravel. It is more convenient for her to have a buffet of books but due to my free time, I can be a serialist. I like it this way.
A Dickensian Christmas and a technology-free decision
A Christmas party was held at Raffles Hotel and the theme was really brilliant. Victorianism as a literature paper is my favourite to read. The dress code was restricted to the era which Charles Dickens lived in, the fare was Victorian food and even the games were classic, including a quiz on various well-known figures in literature and the mass media. I wish singing traditional carols together could have been on the agenda though. It was a Victorian way of living.
Low Shi Ping made the decision to be without technology and she chronicled the process in an article. It led me to wonder how we had managed to survive without pagers or handphones 20 years ago. It probably helped us to instill more self-discipline within ourselves when we arranged outings with one another. We had to ensure we were punctual for our appointments. In a way, now that we have handphones, we have the liberty to change the time or venue anytime we wish to.
I remember turning off my handphone on a few occasions and people complaining that they were unable to reach me. Somehow, it gives me a sense of freedom not to expect to pick up calls or answer messages, and yet it makes me feel too that people do not bother to contact me. After a short while, I turn it on again so that I feel thought about. My insecurity wins the day. :S I am thrilled each time I check my emails or turn on my handphone, and discover many messages or missed calls.
I never fail to check what emails I have and which friends I have online on MSN each time I log on to the Internet. The former is more urgent now that I am expecting replies from employers.
She mentioned how she could not inform her interviewee that she was in a traffic jam and thus would be late. We probably had this problem too 20 years back but I believe traffic was not so congested and heavy then. There were fewer vehicles on the road as people were not so well-off and the economic situation was not so rosy. We had more chances of being on time for our appointments.
She is staying loyal to the technology that is such a dominant part of our lives. I can understand her reason for that but seriously, a handwritten card is more personal than an e-card, and spending time with someone or talking to someone on the phone is more intimate than sending messages to him.
Low Shi Ping made the decision to be without technology and she chronicled the process in an article. It led me to wonder how we had managed to survive without pagers or handphones 20 years ago. It probably helped us to instill more self-discipline within ourselves when we arranged outings with one another. We had to ensure we were punctual for our appointments. In a way, now that we have handphones, we have the liberty to change the time or venue anytime we wish to.
I remember turning off my handphone on a few occasions and people complaining that they were unable to reach me. Somehow, it gives me a sense of freedom not to expect to pick up calls or answer messages, and yet it makes me feel too that people do not bother to contact me. After a short while, I turn it on again so that I feel thought about. My insecurity wins the day. :S I am thrilled each time I check my emails or turn on my handphone, and discover many messages or missed calls.
I never fail to check what emails I have and which friends I have online on MSN each time I log on to the Internet. The former is more urgent now that I am expecting replies from employers.
She mentioned how she could not inform her interviewee that she was in a traffic jam and thus would be late. We probably had this problem too 20 years back but I believe traffic was not so congested and heavy then. There were fewer vehicles on the road as people were not so well-off and the economic situation was not so rosy. We had more chances of being on time for our appointments.
She is staying loyal to the technology that is such a dominant part of our lives. I can understand her reason for that but seriously, a handwritten card is more personal than an e-card, and spending time with someone or talking to someone on the phone is more intimate than sending messages to him.
Wedding celebrations (2)
Lately, the rising costs of living have affected wedding costs too and this means a bigger red packet for wedding dinners. $100 has now become the average amount.
I agree with Nelson Quah's letter that some expenses in terms of time and money, pertaining to a wedding, do not have to be incurred. I think it is the feelings shared between the couple that is the essentiality. Yes, they want to announce to the world out there that they have found each other and to share their joy, but the love and joy that radiate from them are testimony enough, don't you think?
I have attended some 'Oscar-worthy' wedding celebrations and they deserve to be mentioned.
At my sister-in-law's sister's wedding dinner, it was simpler than the normal ones, a reflection of the couple's simple and mature characters. Though they were egged on to give a long kiss, they gave a short one in order to please those who asked for it and yet to respect the elders present. The bride spent more time with her family at her table and after the mass toast on stage, they just took photographs with the various tables. The games and performances usually seen at dinners were done on an earlier day or even omitted.
At Ting's wedding lunch, though the solemnization was held too, it was informal and intimate, a perfect match of qualities. There were only 3 tables. When she came into the room, it was not in a processional manner. She had time to mingle with us before the exchange of vows. The lunch was a buffet with all the courses offered. She did not even go for a change of gown and so she had a lot of time with us after the ceremony. It was in a private setting, as such she could take many photographs with her guests. There were no speeches, toasts, games or performances.
We really got to spend time with her, which is highly unusual during a normal wedding dinner, and even managed to arrange our next outing. Due to the close proximity of tables, I got to know someone who was from our former company too. Her mum even warmly thanked us for our presence and we could actually look at her photo album with her while giving our comments. She also plans to have just the customary wedding without a wedding dinner. Couples, sit up and take note!
I agree with Nelson Quah's letter that some expenses in terms of time and money, pertaining to a wedding, do not have to be incurred. I think it is the feelings shared between the couple that is the essentiality. Yes, they want to announce to the world out there that they have found each other and to share their joy, but the love and joy that radiate from them are testimony enough, don't you think?
I have attended some 'Oscar-worthy' wedding celebrations and they deserve to be mentioned.
At my sister-in-law's sister's wedding dinner, it was simpler than the normal ones, a reflection of the couple's simple and mature characters. Though they were egged on to give a long kiss, they gave a short one in order to please those who asked for it and yet to respect the elders present. The bride spent more time with her family at her table and after the mass toast on stage, they just took photographs with the various tables. The games and performances usually seen at dinners were done on an earlier day or even omitted.
At Ting's wedding lunch, though the solemnization was held too, it was informal and intimate, a perfect match of qualities. There were only 3 tables. When she came into the room, it was not in a processional manner. She had time to mingle with us before the exchange of vows. The lunch was a buffet with all the courses offered. She did not even go for a change of gown and so she had a lot of time with us after the ceremony. It was in a private setting, as such she could take many photographs with her guests. There were no speeches, toasts, games or performances.
We really got to spend time with her, which is highly unusual during a normal wedding dinner, and even managed to arrange our next outing. Due to the close proximity of tables, I got to know someone who was from our former company too. Her mum even warmly thanked us for our presence and we could actually look at her photo album with her while giving our comments. She also plans to have just the customary wedding without a wedding dinner. Couples, sit up and take note!
A woman's body worn on a man's body
This title sounds illogical but it is based on a T-shirt that Rain wore to an award ceremony. He had worn a T-shirt that showed the upper half of a woman's nude body.
The point here is not that he as a celebrity created a scandal by his choice of fashion, but that anyone with such a choice in clothing is really mentally sick. Yes, I am a female and hence am more affected by this than if I were a male. It is an insult to the female gender, isn't it?
It's bad enough that we see females already flaunting their real bodies through low-cut tops and plunging gowns. This T-shirt just adds to it.
The point here is not that he as a celebrity created a scandal by his choice of fashion, but that anyone with such a choice in clothing is really mentally sick. Yes, I am a female and hence am more affected by this than if I were a male. It is an insult to the female gender, isn't it?
It's bad enough that we see females already flaunting their real bodies through low-cut tops and plunging gowns. This T-shirt just adds to it.
Proud of having orthopaedic problems??
Urban ran a feature article on wearing high-heels and the solutions to wearing them with comfort. There was a side story on this user who wears them very often. I felt repulsed upon noting her reaction to her feet problems. She actually feels proud of having the same situation as Hilary Clinton.
Her problem is not a small issue. I'm having a foot problem too but it's due to a contrasting reason. I wear slippers too often. The pain can be excruciating. I won't want to risk vanity above my mobility.
Her problem is not a small issue. I'm having a foot problem too but it's due to a contrasting reason. I wear slippers too often. The pain can be excruciating. I won't want to risk vanity above my mobility.
A 'White Christmas' in Singapore?
When the year is about to end, we see Singaporeans dressed in jackets and cardigans. It's rather ironic given Singapore's tropical climate but coupled with the rainy season, the air-conditioners are switched on at full blast. We get to experience a 'wintry cold' Yuletide season as a result.
I remember having to endure an air-conditioned working environment of the lowest temperature on the remote control. There was no way we could permanently adjust it because each time we did, it would be returned to the original temperature. Out came my jackets and cardigans to cope with the cold environment.
Our little island is so artificially cold in not so crowded shopping malls and eating outlets too. I need to whip out my cardigan whenever I enter one. Now that my immune system is not so normal, I get cold more easily and have to bring a cardigan with me whenever I leave the house. This also means I must include cardigans on my shopping list as well.
I remember having to endure an air-conditioned working environment of the lowest temperature on the remote control. There was no way we could permanently adjust it because each time we did, it would be returned to the original temperature. Out came my jackets and cardigans to cope with the cold environment.
Our little island is so artificially cold in not so crowded shopping malls and eating outlets too. I need to whip out my cardigan whenever I enter one. Now that my immune system is not so normal, I get cold more easily and have to bring a cardigan with me whenever I leave the house. This also means I must include cardigans on my shopping list as well.
Power dressing through colour choices
Recruit had an article on image pertaining to job interviews, which was written by Elaine Heng. She included a column on colour symbolism and I would like to share with you the colours which influence my fashion choices.
I have included bright colours in my wardrobe, which create a contrast to the light and basic colours I have in there as well. I am now open to yellow and orange tops. I feel that yellow especially, puts me in a happy mood. I've never liked red though. I find it too glaring though it can be paired with black to tone its brightness down. I've a black gypsy skirt but it can be rather formal and cumbersome. I seldom wear it as a result. I usually limit black to either bottoms or dresses. Besides the black pants which are versatile and have a slimming effect on my legs, I have a black dress which has a special significance to me. I have never bought another one.
Funnily enough, my taste in fashion has gone through a rather tremendous change with age and even Yianlin was astounded at it. Hehe. Instead of being inclined towards more practical designs and colours in their classic nature, as my age accords me to, I have deviated towards girly, sweet and feminine clothes. I'm not trying to look younger here but I just like clothes like this. I can't even figure out when my tastes had changed but I actually have been in this phase for a long while. :)
My all-time favourites are blue, white and mint green. My Christmas outfits are usually made up of these colours. Blue is very soothing while white represents purity. I do have brown tops but somehow I think I look dreary in them. I have gray and lilac in my wardrobe too. Thank you for reading my colourful tale of Fashion in my Closet!
I have included bright colours in my wardrobe, which create a contrast to the light and basic colours I have in there as well. I am now open to yellow and orange tops. I feel that yellow especially, puts me in a happy mood. I've never liked red though. I find it too glaring though it can be paired with black to tone its brightness down. I've a black gypsy skirt but it can be rather formal and cumbersome. I seldom wear it as a result. I usually limit black to either bottoms or dresses. Besides the black pants which are versatile and have a slimming effect on my legs, I have a black dress which has a special significance to me. I have never bought another one.
Funnily enough, my taste in fashion has gone through a rather tremendous change with age and even Yianlin was astounded at it. Hehe. Instead of being inclined towards more practical designs and colours in their classic nature, as my age accords me to, I have deviated towards girly, sweet and feminine clothes. I'm not trying to look younger here but I just like clothes like this. I can't even figure out when my tastes had changed but I actually have been in this phase for a long while. :)
My all-time favourites are blue, white and mint green. My Christmas outfits are usually made up of these colours. Blue is very soothing while white represents purity. I do have brown tops but somehow I think I look dreary in them. I have gray and lilac in my wardrobe too. Thank you for reading my colourful tale of Fashion in my Closet!
Theme businesses
There has been a recent sprout of such service outlets especially in the Asian region. The latest one that is being built is a hotel in China. It is located in a cemetery, which is the basis for its death concept. The rooms are similar to vaults and the bed in them are coffin-like. There are no amenities like those found in normal hotels. Guests merely go to their rooms to sleep.
In Taiwan, there is a restaurant which has a toilet concept. The seats are shaped like toilet seats while the dishes which the food comes in are shaped like urinals. There is also another which has cells for the patrons to eat in, with bars to make them look like gaols. The third one is like a hospital where the drinks are served in bags with tubes attached to them, such that the patrons seem to be fed via intravenous drips. Unique or bizarre? Only time will tell.
In Taiwan, there is a restaurant which has a toilet concept. The seats are shaped like toilet seats while the dishes which the food comes in are shaped like urinals. There is also another which has cells for the patrons to eat in, with bars to make them look like gaols. The third one is like a hospital where the drinks are served in bags with tubes attached to them, such that the patrons seem to be fed via intravenous drips. Unique or bizarre? Only time will tell.
We'll never tire of the 80s
Tabitha Wang wrote an article on 80s music at the same time as David Turner had done last year. She mentioned Rick Ashley's music and yes, he is one of my favourite singers. Now my radio station is preset at 90.5 FM instead of 95.0 FM. It plays more of 80s and even late 70s music, which I grew up with. My Youtube account has such music as part of my favourite videos too.
She backs her love for nostalgic music by citing from Psychology Today, that nostalgia is good for us. It can make us more cheerful. I think it also makes us yearn for a past that is gone. The level of cheerfulness can be reduced by the inclusion of sorrow caused by this knowledge.
I am looking forward to the Star Awards Drama 25th Anniversary Show this Sunday. It'd be good to reminisce over the Chinese dramas I grew up watching. At present, I watch reruns of Mystery Night, Zero to Hero and the local version of X-files starring Edmund Chen, Ivy Lee and Nick Shen. The former still gives me the creeps.
She backs her love for nostalgic music by citing from Psychology Today, that nostalgia is good for us. It can make us more cheerful. I think it also makes us yearn for a past that is gone. The level of cheerfulness can be reduced by the inclusion of sorrow caused by this knowledge.
I am looking forward to the Star Awards Drama 25th Anniversary Show this Sunday. It'd be good to reminisce over the Chinese dramas I grew up watching. At present, I watch reruns of Mystery Night, Zero to Hero and the local version of X-files starring Edmund Chen, Ivy Lee and Nick Shen. The former still gives me the creeps.
Chic fashion at hypermarts
Pearlyn Tham wrote an article on how hypermarkets stock up on clothes as well. I've been to Giant as well and have found some rather stylish separates and outfits at very reasonable prices there. I bought a purple long-sleeved blouse with an ethnic design from Giant at Turf City. I look forward to going back there again. Unfortunately, that branch as well as the one at Vivo City(see picture below) are rather far from my place. Now there's one at Parkway Parade too and the clothes there are a little different. There are more nightdresses for one.
Coping with higher costs of living
Singapore's standard of living has been drastically rising with time and the costs of consumer goods are much higher at present. There are so many different varieties of the same products being offered now.
Bread was used as an example in an article pertaining to this. Sunshine is a good brand in terms of price and quality. I don't think it loses out to BreadTalk. In fact, it is much cheaper. It can be found in supermarkets, since the writer frequents them. Such basic goods have risen in price though and this reminds me of the post-war period.
The different brands of a product are differently priced. When I shop at the supermarket, I go for the item with the lowest price. With an essential like cooking oil however, it's health versus price. Olive oil costs much more than normal vegetable oil but it is healthier. I usually buy a blend of canola and olive oils, which has an average price.
The suggestion of shopping at wet markets and provision shops instead of supermarkets, to cope with the increased prices, was also given. I should consider this option. I guess I've been so used to the clean and comfortable conditions(alliteration!) as well as the organized structure of the latter.
Now I've learnt that I can get the precise amount of ingredients that I need and pay for that amount at the former. I've always thought wet markets are dirty and smelly. Still, this fact doesn't overwhelm the cheaper prices and more exact proportions of ingredients I can get there. When I get my food from the supermarkets, they come in portions that exceed what I really need, especially when I'm cooking for just one person. I usually have to either throw or give the remainder away.
The writer mentioned how she doesn't mind paying the peak-hour surcharge when she takes a cab. I have to take cabs for the moment due to my arthritis and encounter this too. The other day, Frances suggested waiting for 20 minutes to avoid paying the surcharge. It is a long time and cumbersome but I get to save money, now that my funds aren't really as much as before.
A reader sent his view on this article to the New Paper. Elvis Ng mentioned considering the usefulness of something before buying it. That is a very good habit to cultivate. Yes, it requires self-control and a rational mind but it helps save money.
I try to enforce this habit when I shop. Even though I go to cheap places like This Fashion and Popular, where I can get further discounts with my membership cards, I still do this. I'm trying to use it to deal with my weakness for books though it is very successful with my purchasing of clothes.
Bread was used as an example in an article pertaining to this. Sunshine is a good brand in terms of price and quality. I don't think it loses out to BreadTalk. In fact, it is much cheaper. It can be found in supermarkets, since the writer frequents them. Such basic goods have risen in price though and this reminds me of the post-war period.
The different brands of a product are differently priced. When I shop at the supermarket, I go for the item with the lowest price. With an essential like cooking oil however, it's health versus price. Olive oil costs much more than normal vegetable oil but it is healthier. I usually buy a blend of canola and olive oils, which has an average price.
The suggestion of shopping at wet markets and provision shops instead of supermarkets, to cope with the increased prices, was also given. I should consider this option. I guess I've been so used to the clean and comfortable conditions(alliteration!) as well as the organized structure of the latter.
Now I've learnt that I can get the precise amount of ingredients that I need and pay for that amount at the former. I've always thought wet markets are dirty and smelly. Still, this fact doesn't overwhelm the cheaper prices and more exact proportions of ingredients I can get there. When I get my food from the supermarkets, they come in portions that exceed what I really need, especially when I'm cooking for just one person. I usually have to either throw or give the remainder away.
The writer mentioned how she doesn't mind paying the peak-hour surcharge when she takes a cab. I have to take cabs for the moment due to my arthritis and encounter this too. The other day, Frances suggested waiting for 20 minutes to avoid paying the surcharge. It is a long time and cumbersome but I get to save money, now that my funds aren't really as much as before.
A reader sent his view on this article to the New Paper. Elvis Ng mentioned considering the usefulness of something before buying it. That is a very good habit to cultivate. Yes, it requires self-control and a rational mind but it helps save money.
I try to enforce this habit when I shop. Even though I go to cheap places like This Fashion and Popular, where I can get further discounts with my membership cards, I still do this. I'm trying to use it to deal with my weakness for books though it is very successful with my purchasing of clothes.
The true meaning of clothes
Hong Xinyi had written an article which appeared in last week's Life. She mentioned how clothes are portrayed by the arts as depicting the particular time periods they are worn in. Once the book or movie is understood in its chronological context, with the help of the clothes the characters wear, it can be fully appreciated. An example is: the female characters are dressed in power suits with shoulder pads within them and this tells the audience that the story is set in the 1980s. Thus, the audience expect notions associated with that era to surface as they continue to get to know the story.
Sadly, the type of clothes worn by people in reality evoke biased judgements on them. If a lady wears an outfit that is not in sync with what is fashionable at that moment in time, she is seen as someone who is not trendy and thus is gossiped about. Do the clothes one wear determine one's true beauty, from within herself? Are clothes intrinsically linked to beauty? We were born without clothes, in case we have forgotten that. Our real beauty comes from the light within us, of all that is good.
Xinyi included a story entitled A Pair of Silk Stockings in her writeup. To me, the story is on the perils of consumerism and how it is strong enough to tempt one away from the important priorities in life. She gave a different perspective on it, that it can be a form of escapism that one can flock to when one is tired out from the burdens of life. It is a powerful story that affects people differently.
Sadly, the type of clothes worn by people in reality evoke biased judgements on them. If a lady wears an outfit that is not in sync with what is fashionable at that moment in time, she is seen as someone who is not trendy and thus is gossiped about. Do the clothes one wear determine one's true beauty, from within herself? Are clothes intrinsically linked to beauty? We were born without clothes, in case we have forgotten that. Our real beauty comes from the light within us, of all that is good.
Xinyi included a story entitled A Pair of Silk Stockings in her writeup. To me, the story is on the perils of consumerism and how it is strong enough to tempt one away from the important priorities in life. She gave a different perspective on it, that it can be a form of escapism that one can flock to when one is tired out from the burdens of life. It is a powerful story that affects people differently.
Proper etiquette
My friend and I were out for dinner and I had Grilled Chicken Chop. I was actually teased a couple of times by other friends for the way I hold my utensils and cut my steak. This time round, I was complimented by Frances for the dainty and tidy way I ate.
Another thing about etiquette which irks me is the dressing of guests at wedding masses. I'm not referring to those ladies who wear spaghetti-strapped or strapless dresses. Yes, it is definitely inappropriate for a place of worship. In this entry however, I would like to write about those who dress too casually for the occasion.
A friend of mine and I dressed as we thought fit for a wedding mass but were asked by our friends why we were so formally attired. He wore a long-sleeved shirt and pants with dress shoes, while I wore a similar combination with heels. No, it wasn't planned that we would wear something alike. I was wearing it for practical purposes and he for etiquette reasons.
On the contrary, our friends wore jeans/capri pants and t-shirts, rather unbecoming, I feel. They didn't feel there was anything wrong with it though. We had to assist at the mass and our roles were more important, yes, but our attire really shows our degree of respect for the couple. Ironically, they actually dressed more formally for the wedding dinner. What a joke!
Another thing about etiquette which irks me is the dressing of guests at wedding masses. I'm not referring to those ladies who wear spaghetti-strapped or strapless dresses. Yes, it is definitely inappropriate for a place of worship. In this entry however, I would like to write about those who dress too casually for the occasion.
A friend of mine and I dressed as we thought fit for a wedding mass but were asked by our friends why we were so formally attired. He wore a long-sleeved shirt and pants with dress shoes, while I wore a similar combination with heels. No, it wasn't planned that we would wear something alike. I was wearing it for practical purposes and he for etiquette reasons.
On the contrary, our friends wore jeans/capri pants and t-shirts, rather unbecoming, I feel. They didn't feel there was anything wrong with it though. We had to assist at the mass and our roles were more important, yes, but our attire really shows our degree of respect for the couple. Ironically, they actually dressed more formally for the wedding dinner. What a joke!
Wedding dress designs
A bride I saw was very pretty and I loved her gown. It had cap sleeves and silver beads on it, and was slim in its design. It has become one of my dream gowns to wear but of course, it looks expensive. So that's an important factor to filter in.
I saw this video on Youtube where 98 Degrees' I Do (Cherish You) was set to Paige's wedding in Charmed. The dress she wore is yet another type I would like to wear. It has short sleeves made from lace and the lace makes up the material around the collarbone too. The dress itself is a modest satin design. It made her look pure and virginal, very 'girly'.
I saw this video on Youtube where 98 Degrees' I Do (Cherish You) was set to Paige's wedding in Charmed. The dress she wore is yet another type I would like to wear. It has short sleeves made from lace and the lace makes up the material around the collarbone too. The dress itself is a modest satin design. It made her look pure and virginal, very 'girly'.
My holiday week
I'm having a long break from tuition lessons since all of my students have finished the relevant papers for the mid-year examinations. I had 0ff-days from Monday to Thursday. I spent the time catching up on my reading and visiting the library. I am absolutely crazy over Bishan Library.
I am slowly progressing in my perusal of the December issue of Female magazine. I also bought 4 pairs of shoes to replace those I had broken with time, 2 pairs of slippers and 2 pairs of heels. Each pair costs only $21 on the average. They are a few of the prettiest pairs I have ever bought.
The heels were bought from BHG. One pair is in mint green with horizontal thin straps across the front and a blackish-silver butterfly at the side while the other is in white and has gold rims and is not so open-toed with gathers to make the front look like a bow and magenta swirls on it.
The slippers were bought from Charles and Keith and were on promotion. One pair has white and silver straps, with 3 bronze baubles in the centre while the other is pink with pink and purple roses at the side of the straps.
I'm still having relaxing schedules for my lessons and I intend to go to the library more often during these free days. :)
I am slowly progressing in my perusal of the December issue of Female magazine. I also bought 4 pairs of shoes to replace those I had broken with time, 2 pairs of slippers and 2 pairs of heels. Each pair costs only $21 on the average. They are a few of the prettiest pairs I have ever bought.
The heels were bought from BHG. One pair is in mint green with horizontal thin straps across the front and a blackish-silver butterfly at the side while the other is in white and has gold rims and is not so open-toed with gathers to make the front look like a bow and magenta swirls on it.
The slippers were bought from Charles and Keith and were on promotion. One pair has white and silver straps, with 3 bronze baubles in the centre while the other is pink with pink and purple roses at the side of the straps.
I'm still having relaxing schedules for my lessons and I intend to go to the library more often during these free days. :)
Office Slut?
This may seem a harsh label to be placed on someone but there is a justification for it.
This working girl met someone for the first time at a Chinese restaurant and as I observed her as well as those at the table, she was the only girl inappropriately clothed for work.
Her blouse was short enough to expose her midriff and her extremely short skirt was made of denim with pleats at the hem. Though she wore high heels, the shoes certainly can't overshadow the fact that her dressing is more suitable for a shopping trip, a sexy date or an informal gathering.
That is definitely not the proper dress code for work! Yes, it may make her look sexy and show off her long legs but the occasion is undoubtedly wrong for her to attempt that style. She's definitely not in the world of The Devil Wears Prada, working for Miranda. If she is not an office slut, then what is she?
This working girl met someone for the first time at a Chinese restaurant and as I observed her as well as those at the table, she was the only girl inappropriately clothed for work.
Her blouse was short enough to expose her midriff and her extremely short skirt was made of denim with pleats at the hem. Though she wore high heels, the shoes certainly can't overshadow the fact that her dressing is more suitable for a shopping trip, a sexy date or an informal gathering.
That is definitely not the proper dress code for work! Yes, it may make her look sexy and show off her long legs but the occasion is undoubtedly wrong for her to attempt that style. She's definitely not in the world of The Devil Wears Prada, working for Miranda. If she is not an office slut, then what is she?
SPH's compilation of New vs Old Nostalgia
The newspaper on Chinese New Year's Eve was awfully (in an archaic sense) interesting to read and I had a revelling time doing so. From cover to cover, memories came flooding into my mind as I lapped up detail after detail of days gone by.
Bras Basah Complex was the place where I flocked to when I wanted to find my literature texts for my degree. I did books that were on the Canon list and thus not popular with most people, since those that are, are usually 'trashy'. The hard-to-come-by gems of reading were also obtained cheap and I managed to find some guide books as well. Cliff's Notes with its signature yellow and black striped cover was the norm. They are inexpensive, expansive and good to refer to.
Cameron Restaurant has wooden booth seats for its patrons to sit at while eating. I remember eating at Swee Kee Chicken Rice as a child and if I'm not mistaken, there were booth seats there. I enjoyed the fragrant rice that came with the chicken. It is now brought back in the form of Rui Kee. I also remember sitting at such seats at coffeeshops I frequented when much younger. The banging and squeaky sounds made when I moved in to sit on them are still clear in my mind. The marble top tables with their wooden legs are still firmly etched in my mind's eye.
Dr Wu's house was featured and a picture of his living room brought me back to my younger days. I remember my grandauntie's house which had a glass showcase of ornaments. I was always fascinated with the ornaments inside the case but I could only gawk at them because I was forbidden to touch the fragile intricacies.
I also remember a black storage cupboard I had in my house. There was a shelf on top of a cabinet. On the shelf were banned items like Quality Sweets in its circular tin as well as plastic deep and round containers filled with either raw 'keropok' or freshly fried ones. I was a greedy child and used to steal lots of them to eat when no one was around. There was also a blue circular tin of butter cookies made in Denmark. I used to eat them in their various designs, one of each, after giving in to the temptation of opening the tin. In the cabinet were boxes of biscuits like Ritz crackers, the big ones, and Chicken in a Biscuit, the darker green package as well as the 'terong saji' used to cover food with.
One of the articles was on Chinese New Year of long ago. Happy Families was one of the card games played by children then. I remember playing this game when I was a child and it taught me to be polite in the process. I had to ask for the members of the families I lacked from other players in this manner: "May I please have Mrs.../ Do you have Mrs..." That was one of the childhood games I enjoyed playing.
Bras Basah Complex was the place where I flocked to when I wanted to find my literature texts for my degree. I did books that were on the Canon list and thus not popular with most people, since those that are, are usually 'trashy'. The hard-to-come-by gems of reading were also obtained cheap and I managed to find some guide books as well. Cliff's Notes with its signature yellow and black striped cover was the norm. They are inexpensive, expansive and good to refer to.
Cameron Restaurant has wooden booth seats for its patrons to sit at while eating. I remember eating at Swee Kee Chicken Rice as a child and if I'm not mistaken, there were booth seats there. I enjoyed the fragrant rice that came with the chicken. It is now brought back in the form of Rui Kee. I also remember sitting at such seats at coffeeshops I frequented when much younger. The banging and squeaky sounds made when I moved in to sit on them are still clear in my mind. The marble top tables with their wooden legs are still firmly etched in my mind's eye.
Dr Wu's house was featured and a picture of his living room brought me back to my younger days. I remember my grandauntie's house which had a glass showcase of ornaments. I was always fascinated with the ornaments inside the case but I could only gawk at them because I was forbidden to touch the fragile intricacies.
I also remember a black storage cupboard I had in my house. There was a shelf on top of a cabinet. On the shelf were banned items like Quality Sweets in its circular tin as well as plastic deep and round containers filled with either raw 'keropok' or freshly fried ones. I was a greedy child and used to steal lots of them to eat when no one was around. There was also a blue circular tin of butter cookies made in Denmark. I used to eat them in their various designs, one of each, after giving in to the temptation of opening the tin. In the cabinet were boxes of biscuits like Ritz crackers, the big ones, and Chicken in a Biscuit, the darker green package as well as the 'terong saji' used to cover food with.
One of the articles was on Chinese New Year of long ago. Happy Families was one of the card games played by children then. I remember playing this game when I was a child and it taught me to be polite in the process. I had to ask for the members of the families I lacked from other players in this manner: "May I please have Mrs.../ Do you have Mrs..." That was one of the childhood games I enjoyed playing.
Thursday, August 21, 2008
The worth of following trends
A Hong Kong woman clung on to her Louis Vuitton handbag when confronted by robbers. She was beaten up in the process and though they were frustrated enough to give up on it, she had to be warded.
She may have gained the satisfaction of retaining it but it was at the expense of her physical health. Was it worth doing that? She cannot bring it to Heaven when she dies.
Also, the thieves were attracted to her branded clothes as well. If dressing well brings such unwanted attention, then it seems foolish to dress so well, unless she desires such attention. This may be true since she still wants to dress in designer togs even after that scare.
A woman's leg was trapped in the gap while boarding the MRT train. It was due to the heel of her boot. As a result, metal plates had to be inserted in her leg.
The boots were newly bought and cost her $70. She may have been trying to catch up with the latest fashion trends but they were too expensive and nearly cost her a leg. Besides, it is impractical to wear boots in such a warm climate as ours and high heels are not beneficial to our feet. What looks nice may not be good and practical for us. It's really vanity that drives us to do such foolish things.
Again, was it worth wearing those boots to look pretty and getting injured in the process? Fortunately, she had learnt her lesson and decided to throw them away. In comparison, she's not as stubborn as the Hong Kong lady.
She may have gained the satisfaction of retaining it but it was at the expense of her physical health. Was it worth doing that? She cannot bring it to Heaven when she dies.
Also, the thieves were attracted to her branded clothes as well. If dressing well brings such unwanted attention, then it seems foolish to dress so well, unless she desires such attention. This may be true since she still wants to dress in designer togs even after that scare.
A woman's leg was trapped in the gap while boarding the MRT train. It was due to the heel of her boot. As a result, metal plates had to be inserted in her leg.
The boots were newly bought and cost her $70. She may have been trying to catch up with the latest fashion trends but they were too expensive and nearly cost her a leg. Besides, it is impractical to wear boots in such a warm climate as ours and high heels are not beneficial to our feet. What looks nice may not be good and practical for us. It's really vanity that drives us to do such foolish things.
Again, was it worth wearing those boots to look pretty and getting injured in the process? Fortunately, she had learnt her lesson and decided to throw them away. In comparison, she's not as stubborn as the Hong Kong lady.
A spoilt generation
Mindy Tan wrote in the New Paper that some parents are willing to spend $3K on their kids' parties. To them, it is a move that creates a balance with their kids' academic stress. Some parents claim that $3K is a "conservative estimate" and think that it's "ok to spoil them for a few years". However, this amount is too excessive and such enjoyment will just lead to the kids taking finances and their parents for granted. Thank goodness some parents are contented with having a McDonalds' party and some even throw parties for the less fortunate to teach their kids to appreciate their own lives.
It is the same rationale that can be applied to parents' excessive spending on toys and the latest technological gadgets for their young kids. Will the kids truly appreciate their parents' hard-earned money which has been used on them? They will ultimately get tired of their possessions and throw them aside, only to hanker after new ones.
It is the same rationale that can be applied to parents' excessive spending on toys and the latest technological gadgets for their young kids. Will the kids truly appreciate their parents' hard-earned money which has been used on them? They will ultimately get tired of their possessions and throw them aside, only to hanker after new ones.
My favourite music era - the 80s
David Turner wrote an article on being stuck in this era and indeed, I'm guilty of such love in the first degree, since that was when I grew to love listening to music.
English sentimental hits or Chinese xinyao songs accompanied my schooldays and I still have a nostalgic feeling towards any song which belongs to one of these categories. When I search for music midis on the Net, I never fail to zero in on love songs of the 80s. I also have a cd set of television serials' theme songs from this era, as well as cassette tapes of ballads belted out by the singers most popular then.
Somehow, Chinese songs have a greater impact on me. I remember Ng King Kang's album entitled My Friends, My Classmates, Everything I Love The Most. I can even remember how the tune of this song goes! Jeff Chang was and still is my favourite singer. I love his ballads and his tenor voice. When the Campus Superstar contestants and Kelvin Tan sang 3 theme songs from the television series of the 80s era during the celebrations after the Star Awards, it was poignant for me too.
English sentimental hits or Chinese xinyao songs accompanied my schooldays and I still have a nostalgic feeling towards any song which belongs to one of these categories. When I search for music midis on the Net, I never fail to zero in on love songs of the 80s. I also have a cd set of television serials' theme songs from this era, as well as cassette tapes of ballads belted out by the singers most popular then.
Somehow, Chinese songs have a greater impact on me. I remember Ng King Kang's album entitled My Friends, My Classmates, Everything I Love The Most. I can even remember how the tune of this song goes! Jeff Chang was and still is my favourite singer. I love his ballads and his tenor voice. When the Campus Superstar contestants and Kelvin Tan sang 3 theme songs from the television series of the 80s era during the celebrations after the Star Awards, it was poignant for me too.
Gift exchanges
This exercise is a common occurrence at Christmas and the most prevalent occasion for me is after mass. There is one thing that I can't do despite trying to. I may not like certain people but I still can't exclude them from my gift list. After all, to do so defeats the true spirit of Christmas.
I remember attending a Christmas party where there was a gift exchange with an alloted budget. I got a present that obviously cost more than the given budget and it showed the giving nature of the giver. He made sure the recipient would be fine with his gift, even if he had to spend more. It was a cushion in my favourite colour and it was adorable, really. Thanks Eric, for being so thoughtful. :)
I enjoy receiving practical gifts and Lydia is one of my favourite persons for that. She gives practical and well- thought-of gifts like body sponges and candle holders with candles inside.
Festive hampers are suitable for family recipients. They can be based on certain themes. I got one from St Michael's for a family. I could choose a few items within the given budget to put in a gift box. Nowadays though, I think food items are equally suitable. Getting a presentable box of chocolate biscuits or a log cake can satisfy the family too.
The wrapping of the gifts is important to me. Though I'm not an artistic person, I try to wrap my gifts well enough. I resort to wrapping them in a paper-bag style when I'm pressed for time or have problems with awkward-shaped gifts. It never fails to work.
I remember attending a Christmas party where there was a gift exchange with an alloted budget. I got a present that obviously cost more than the given budget and it showed the giving nature of the giver. He made sure the recipient would be fine with his gift, even if he had to spend more. It was a cushion in my favourite colour and it was adorable, really. Thanks Eric, for being so thoughtful. :)
I enjoy receiving practical gifts and Lydia is one of my favourite persons for that. She gives practical and well- thought-of gifts like body sponges and candle holders with candles inside.
Festive hampers are suitable for family recipients. They can be based on certain themes. I got one from St Michael's for a family. I could choose a few items within the given budget to put in a gift box. Nowadays though, I think food items are equally suitable. Getting a presentable box of chocolate biscuits or a log cake can satisfy the family too.
The wrapping of the gifts is important to me. Though I'm not an artistic person, I try to wrap my gifts well enough. I resort to wrapping them in a paper-bag style when I'm pressed for time or have problems with awkward-shaped gifts. It never fails to work.
Wedding celebrations
Tan Dawn Wei wrote about the "fake-cake wedding(s)" she had attended. It was quite a dismaying fact to know that couples waste their finances on styrofoam cakes accompanied with slits for the knives to fit into.
It is true too, that people don't really admire the numerous gowns worn by the bride at the dinner and even if they do, it doesn't usually last for beyond a second glance. This also costs the bride her dinner, as she doesn't get to enjoy the dishes like the rest of them. Even the groom has that opportunity! One gown should be it and worn till the end of the dinner. At the most, intermittent touch-ups of her makeup can be done.
I've attended a few weddings that have seared themselves in my mind. I remember my friend who let her long hair loose in her wedding gown. That was a refreshingly simple alternative to hairstyles that require the brides to do their hair up and thus cause unnecessary weight on their heads through the accessories. Another friend of mine had her makeup done too excessively, such that she appeared ghastly.
I am repulsed by wedding dinners that include sabotage games organized by the couple's friends for the couple. They should be kept to personal entertainment, after everything has ended. Not everyone is into these and they can get too kinky for my liking.
The arrangement of guests at the various tables can be an issue for contentment as well. Putting incompatible people together can make the event very boring for them.
The food is yet another issue. I know of a wedding dinner which was different in this aspect but guests did not feel filled up. They were offered spa cuisine, which was served at very long intervals in between. This resulted in the guests rushing to gobble up the desserts served buffet-style, of which some were more filling than the earlier courses.
Eve-Wee-Ang wrote in to reply to Dawn Wei's article, sharing on her own wedding celebrations. Her celebrations seemed spontaneous and unrestricted. I wonder if other brides can be as fortunate as she was, considering the fact that cultural heritage is an essential factor in our society. She could wake up at 1pm for her ceremony.
Her dinner is the type of ideal yearned for, where there were speeches from the heart and a live band. It doesn't seem too rowdy. It is simple and yet unforgettable.
Condoms were given to guests at a wedding. How can they be appropriate as favours? What is the couple trying to advocate? Yes, safe sex but that may lead to promiscuity for the singles and adultery for the married people. It may be in the name of fun but that's not a socially good enough reason.
It is true too, that people don't really admire the numerous gowns worn by the bride at the dinner and even if they do, it doesn't usually last for beyond a second glance. This also costs the bride her dinner, as she doesn't get to enjoy the dishes like the rest of them. Even the groom has that opportunity! One gown should be it and worn till the end of the dinner. At the most, intermittent touch-ups of her makeup can be done.
I've attended a few weddings that have seared themselves in my mind. I remember my friend who let her long hair loose in her wedding gown. That was a refreshingly simple alternative to hairstyles that require the brides to do their hair up and thus cause unnecessary weight on their heads through the accessories. Another friend of mine had her makeup done too excessively, such that she appeared ghastly.
I am repulsed by wedding dinners that include sabotage games organized by the couple's friends for the couple. They should be kept to personal entertainment, after everything has ended. Not everyone is into these and they can get too kinky for my liking.
The arrangement of guests at the various tables can be an issue for contentment as well. Putting incompatible people together can make the event very boring for them.
The food is yet another issue. I know of a wedding dinner which was different in this aspect but guests did not feel filled up. They were offered spa cuisine, which was served at very long intervals in between. This resulted in the guests rushing to gobble up the desserts served buffet-style, of which some were more filling than the earlier courses.
Eve-Wee-Ang wrote in to reply to Dawn Wei's article, sharing on her own wedding celebrations. Her celebrations seemed spontaneous and unrestricted. I wonder if other brides can be as fortunate as she was, considering the fact that cultural heritage is an essential factor in our society. She could wake up at 1pm for her ceremony.
Her dinner is the type of ideal yearned for, where there were speeches from the heart and a live band. It doesn't seem too rowdy. It is simple and yet unforgettable.
Condoms were given to guests at a wedding. How can they be appropriate as favours? What is the couple trying to advocate? Yes, safe sex but that may lead to promiscuity for the singles and adultery for the married people. It may be in the name of fun but that's not a socially good enough reason.
It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas...as the song goes
The place to be at during the Christmas season is Orchard Road, where it is decked out in decorations that bring out the mood of this occasion. Of course, the area around City Hall station is also decorated but the decor is simpler, with red balls intertwined amongst the lights.
I went down last week to have a closer look at the decorations that have been raved about by my friends and in the media. I like the Enchanted Forest theme thought of by Dick Lee, especially the coloured jewels hanging amidst the trees. Somehow, the theme brings back memories of having read magical tales weaved by Enid Blyton.
I fell in love with the 4 lighted trees situated at the junction where Hereen is. They are in colours of red, blue, green and yellow. They are really made up of fountains and coloured lights. They were beautiful and magical, a gaping sight to behold.
Those who have not gone down to take a look at Orchard Road, please do. It is worth doing it.
It's also exciting to look at the Christmas goodies sold. Cold Storage and Marks' and Spencer are my favourite places to go to. There are stollens, puddings, chocolates in Christmas-y packagings and Christmas cakes to name a few.
I went down last week to have a closer look at the decorations that have been raved about by my friends and in the media. I like the Enchanted Forest theme thought of by Dick Lee, especially the coloured jewels hanging amidst the trees. Somehow, the theme brings back memories of having read magical tales weaved by Enid Blyton.
I fell in love with the 4 lighted trees situated at the junction where Hereen is. They are in colours of red, blue, green and yellow. They are really made up of fountains and coloured lights. They were beautiful and magical, a gaping sight to behold.
Those who have not gone down to take a look at Orchard Road, please do. It is worth doing it.
It's also exciting to look at the Christmas goodies sold. Cold Storage and Marks' and Spencer are my favourite places to go to. There are stollens, puddings, chocolates in Christmas-y packagings and Christmas cakes to name a few.
An appreciated break
I am having a long break for this week, with no lessons to teach. So I'm trying to use the time to spend time with my parents, catch up on my reading, as well as prepare for my lessons, which I enjoy.
I'm also doing early Christmas shopping but in the process of doing so, I clash with students who're looking for their prom dresses. I've not gotten my dress yet but I've bought my shoes. :D I've bought most of my presents too. :) Well, I still have time to source.
I'm also doing early Christmas shopping but in the process of doing so, I clash with students who're looking for their prom dresses. I've not gotten my dress yet but I've bought my shoes. :D I've bought most of my presents too. :) Well, I still have time to source.
Innovation in shopping malls' carparks
In the past, every driver would be straining his neck for any spaces to park his car in when he enters a carpark.
In the present, looking for a parking space is much easier and faster. Electronic devices situated after the entrance barrier give information on the number of available parking spaces, based on the various areas in the carpark. Also, vaccant parking lots have a green light overhead while occupied ones have a red light.
Drivers just look at the number of available spaces upon entering the carpark and head towards them, narrowing their focus to green lights as they scour for spaces. Once the driver parks his car in the vaccant lot, the light changes from green to red and vice-versa.
Bishan's Junction 8's carpark is an example of such a technologically innovative carpark. Drivers, rest easy when you enter it. :)
In the present, looking for a parking space is much easier and faster. Electronic devices situated after the entrance barrier give information on the number of available parking spaces, based on the various areas in the carpark. Also, vaccant parking lots have a green light overhead while occupied ones have a red light.
Drivers just look at the number of available spaces upon entering the carpark and head towards them, narrowing their focus to green lights as they scour for spaces. Once the driver parks his car in the vaccant lot, the light changes from green to red and vice-versa.
Bishan's Junction 8's carpark is an example of such a technologically innovative carpark. Drivers, rest easy when you enter it. :)
National costumes still on the run
The re-opening of Parliament brought a colourful sea of ethnic dressing to the surface of society. It was however limited to only the ladies. The men decided to play it safe. Indeed, women are more adventurous in fashion. The various racial costumes were showcased, such as the Sari, the Cheongsam and the Sarong Kebaya.
This makes me think of the festivals celebrated in Singapore. Ladies wearing Baju Kurong on Hari Raya Puasa are a common sight. The Sari is also fondly draped over the bodies of women during the Deepavali season. Christmas brings out the phenomenon of Western outfits of all manners and designs. What is sorely lacking is the Cheongsam a.k.a Qipao worn by females during Chinese New Year visits. At the most, Cheongsam tops or Mandarin collars on Western blouses are worn.
What's wrong with the Chinese traditional wear that we seem ashamed to celebrate it on festive occasions? What makes it so repulsive as contrasted with the Sari or the Baju Kurong? This is just a thought.
This makes me think of the festivals celebrated in Singapore. Ladies wearing Baju Kurong on Hari Raya Puasa are a common sight. The Sari is also fondly draped over the bodies of women during the Deepavali season. Christmas brings out the phenomenon of Western outfits of all manners and designs. What is sorely lacking is the Cheongsam a.k.a Qipao worn by females during Chinese New Year visits. At the most, Cheongsam tops or Mandarin collars on Western blouses are worn.
What's wrong with the Chinese traditional wear that we seem ashamed to celebrate it on festive occasions? What makes it so repulsive as contrasted with the Sari or the Baju Kurong? This is just a thought.
Chinatown's quaint stalls
I was on my way to a teahouse with my friends and we walked past souvenir stalls. Though they were evidently pertaining to tourists from abroad, we still lingered at a few if something caught our eye. Intricately designed snuff containers and ornaments shaped like peacocks were some of the outstanding items we saw.
Then we proceeded to a Chinese bakery selling dim sum and mooncakes to buy some snacks.
Do visit Chinatown and browse at the stalls littering the roads! :)
Then we proceeded to a Chinese bakery selling dim sum and mooncakes to buy some snacks.
Do visit Chinatown and browse at the stalls littering the roads! :)
Memories of MPH Stamford
I was reading the blog entries on yesterday.sg and the latest entry evoked nostalgic thoughts in me. It was on the former MPH Bookstore occupying the Stamford Road building.
I remember going to the Literature sections to look for my texts, since I was majoring in Literature for my degree. I also remember going to the counter to make reservations for the texts or pay for my purchases. I patronised the children's and SATS exam guides sections as well.
A most poignant memory concerns the cafe on the second level. I used to have study sessions with my classmates while we ate our dinner there. The food was good, especially the Earl Grey Tea. I will not forget it for a long time because it was so potent that I stayed up the whole night. I fell asleep at only 10am the next day!
There was also a public phone just outside the cafe. It was the orange-coloured type. I used it to tell my dad about my study sessions. Handphones weren't so rampant then.
I remember going to the Literature sections to look for my texts, since I was majoring in Literature for my degree. I also remember going to the counter to make reservations for the texts or pay for my purchases. I patronised the children's and SATS exam guides sections as well.
A most poignant memory concerns the cafe on the second level. I used to have study sessions with my classmates while we ate our dinner there. The food was good, especially the Earl Grey Tea. I will not forget it for a long time because it was so potent that I stayed up the whole night. I fell asleep at only 10am the next day!
There was also a public phone just outside the cafe. It was the orange-coloured type. I used it to tell my dad about my study sessions. Handphones weren't so rampant then.
Shoes fanatics, DMK's 'the brand'!
I had to get a replacement pair of slippers for the one which had its heel broken. I went to Junction 8's Seiyu's shoe department to take a look. I was very much attracted to those of the DMK brand.
Their prices are very reasonable and close to my allocated budget, whilst their designs are appealing. I bought 2 pairs of slippers and since my tastes have deviated towards those of a feminine type, I chose a blue pair with a furry pompom on each slipper as well as a white pair with colourful flowers at the side. I love them to bits. :)
I'm not sure if Bugis's Seiyu has this brand but do check it out when you are at Junction 8's Seiyu!
Their prices are very reasonable and close to my allocated budget, whilst their designs are appealing. I bought 2 pairs of slippers and since my tastes have deviated towards those of a feminine type, I chose a blue pair with a furry pompom on each slipper as well as a white pair with colourful flowers at the side. I love them to bits. :)
I'm not sure if Bugis's Seiyu has this brand but do check it out when you are at Junction 8's Seiyu!
A modification to local itineraries?
Nelson Quah suggested making pasar malams as part of the local itinerary for tourists who visit Singapore in Today. What a good idea. It should have been carried out long ago. It boosts both personal and national economy, as well as creates a unique experience for the tourists as well.
Though it can be stifling hot, that's part of the experience. The smells emitting from the food sold at the market can be foreign to some of us but we learn more about the types of food in the process.
I remember going to night markets in Hong Kong, Shanghai and Hangzhou. They are unique in their own way. Ladies' Market is full of ladies' items like clothes, shoes, handbags and accessories. There are also indoor food stalls to fill one's stomach. Shanghai's market is known for its branded goods. Though they aren't genuine, they are cheap and durable, after bargaining with the seller of course. Hangzhou's market has mostly food and some unusual but personally unappealing items are sold there like Smelly Doufu and Dog Meat.
Though it can be stifling hot, that's part of the experience. The smells emitting from the food sold at the market can be foreign to some of us but we learn more about the types of food in the process.
I remember going to night markets in Hong Kong, Shanghai and Hangzhou. They are unique in their own way. Ladies' Market is full of ladies' items like clothes, shoes, handbags and accessories. There are also indoor food stalls to fill one's stomach. Shanghai's market is known for its branded goods. Though they aren't genuine, they are cheap and durable, after bargaining with the seller of course. Hangzhou's market has mostly food and some unusual but personally unappealing items are sold there like Smelly Doufu and Dog Meat.
Catalytic thoughts at the hairdresser's
I went to have my hair washed and trimmed, which led to some thoughts as I sat there in the salon.
Umpteen years ago, I was a small, shy girl tugging at her mum's arm as she entered the salon, and flipping through 'Sisters' pictorial magazines while waiting for her mum to have her hair styled. I used to wonder what those huge 'helmets' hovering over my mum's head were. I guess that they were for styling purposes.
My mum's hairdresser has now become mine as well. She has seen me grow into a woman who's more feminine, since I decided to leave my boyish hair long at 17. She knows what degree I majored in, my first job as well as my current one. She knows about my family situation and asks after my parents. I feel so familiar with her and if a new hairstylist were to replace her, I'd feel awkward. She's not only a service provider but also a family friend to me.
Her initially small and crowded salon has now been renovated into a spacious and modern one. It incorporates facial and manicure services as well. She has come a long way in her own enterprise and in her relationship with us.
The things I look forward to each time I set off for a haircut are that my hair is in the safe hands of someone I trust, I get a soothing massage when I get my hair washed, since she does it more thoroughly, and I get to read the latest women's magazines for free! Haha, I'm a magazine freak.
Umpteen years ago, I was a small, shy girl tugging at her mum's arm as she entered the salon, and flipping through 'Sisters' pictorial magazines while waiting for her mum to have her hair styled. I used to wonder what those huge 'helmets' hovering over my mum's head were. I guess that they were for styling purposes.
My mum's hairdresser has now become mine as well. She has seen me grow into a woman who's more feminine, since I decided to leave my boyish hair long at 17. She knows what degree I majored in, my first job as well as my current one. She knows about my family situation and asks after my parents. I feel so familiar with her and if a new hairstylist were to replace her, I'd feel awkward. She's not only a service provider but also a family friend to me.
Her initially small and crowded salon has now been renovated into a spacious and modern one. It incorporates facial and manicure services as well. She has come a long way in her own enterprise and in her relationship with us.
The things I look forward to each time I set off for a haircut are that my hair is in the safe hands of someone I trust, I get a soothing massage when I get my hair washed, since she does it more thoroughly, and I get to read the latest women's magazines for free! Haha, I'm a magazine freak.
Obsession with fashion trends
Ladies are known to be in sync with the ever-changing trends of the fashion world more than men. There are more magazines catering to ladies than to men and all of them feature glossy pages of what is the 'in' thing with fashion at the moment. Still, there is a noticeable pattern of deviation in each magazine's version of the popular trends in society. Subjectivity still rules in the media. "What is fashion? Is it the vision of a select group of people who decide what the world should be wearing?"
Pradeep Paul wrote an article on such an obsession of ladies. We dress to impress, whether we are going for a job interview, social gathering or on that all-important first date. The media encourages that too with how-to tips. He says that there is really no compulsive need to do so so immaculately. Appearances aren't everything. Clothes are really meant to retain our modesty, according to the Bible and to allow us to fit into occasions which impose codes on our sense of dressing.
What ladies fail to realise even after so long is that what looks good on the models doesn't always look good on them in reality. Different people carry the same outffit differently, depending on their body structure. Also, what is visually appealing may not be fuss-free to maintain with time. Lacy, crinkled, velvety and satiny fabrics are more difficult to iron than normal fabrics like cotton and linen. Functionality is what should matter. "Show me one true wrinkle-free non-iron product in cotton and I'll buy a dozen."
Ladies want to look stylish with the pursuit of such trends but really, personal style is what makes you look good, not what looks good on others. Also, your sense of personal comfort is essential. If tube dresses are in vogue but you are uncomfortable wearing them, being the conventional sort of person, then why force yourself to wear them? Pulling your dress up each time, for fear of it slipping down even with a snug bra underneath, will make you look un-stylish on the contrary! You can look just as good in dresses with cap sleeves, because you are comfortable wearing them and can walk in them with secure confidence. That's true style. "We eventually arrive at a place where we are comfortable with who we are and what we look like. If we carry it off with confidence, that's style."
Of course, ladies take the trouble to dress up when they meet their special someone. Their reason for doing so dictates their character however. Desiring compliments makes them seem vain while desiring to show love to their partners casts a more positive light on them. Still, not all men look at merely appearance or dressing when looking for a stable partner. Character and chemistry supercede it.
Pradeep Paul wrote an article on such an obsession of ladies. We dress to impress, whether we are going for a job interview, social gathering or on that all-important first date. The media encourages that too with how-to tips. He says that there is really no compulsive need to do so so immaculately. Appearances aren't everything. Clothes are really meant to retain our modesty, according to the Bible and to allow us to fit into occasions which impose codes on our sense of dressing.
What ladies fail to realise even after so long is that what looks good on the models doesn't always look good on them in reality. Different people carry the same outffit differently, depending on their body structure. Also, what is visually appealing may not be fuss-free to maintain with time. Lacy, crinkled, velvety and satiny fabrics are more difficult to iron than normal fabrics like cotton and linen. Functionality is what should matter. "Show me one true wrinkle-free non-iron product in cotton and I'll buy a dozen."
Ladies want to look stylish with the pursuit of such trends but really, personal style is what makes you look good, not what looks good on others. Also, your sense of personal comfort is essential. If tube dresses are in vogue but you are uncomfortable wearing them, being the conventional sort of person, then why force yourself to wear them? Pulling your dress up each time, for fear of it slipping down even with a snug bra underneath, will make you look un-stylish on the contrary! You can look just as good in dresses with cap sleeves, because you are comfortable wearing them and can walk in them with secure confidence. That's true style. "We eventually arrive at a place where we are comfortable with who we are and what we look like. If we carry it off with confidence, that's style."
Of course, ladies take the trouble to dress up when they meet their special someone. Their reason for doing so dictates their character however. Desiring compliments makes them seem vain while desiring to show love to their partners casts a more positive light on them. Still, not all men look at merely appearance or dressing when looking for a stable partner. Character and chemistry supercede it.
Indulgences that deplete my finances
People spend money on various things in life and the usual ones are on basics like food and transport. However, some go on to spend on indulgences like clothes, shoes, bags, entertainment, decor and technological gadgets. My weaknesses are books and magazines, and wherever there are discounts or sales, my eyes and legs never fail to draw me there.
My bookcase is already full due to my extensive collection of literary texts as an undergraduate. Ever since chic-lit came into the market, I've bought scores of books and despite the pile of books that I've not even unwrapped from their plastic covers, lingering on my table, I fall into temptation to buy new ones. Sigh. I've also started buying Chinese books on self-improvement. I have actually graduated in taste from books on days of long ago in various countries. Oh, how am I going to squeeze my new books into the bookcase?! I think I've to create a top layer on the existing piles.
I also get enticed by magazines. I used to buy local ones which are cheaper but with age, I've started to buy foreign ones as well. My magazine racks are full now. So when I do buy, I give them away. I try to control my buying rate by being more critical of the content featured on the covers. If it's irrelevant to me, I don't buy it.
Yes, foreign magazines are more expensive due to the exchange rates but I buy the cheaper ones. Still, I find that local magazines are trying to catch up with them in terms of content, which is more mature and yet immoral. Though it is the order of the day with progression of minds, progression can also be decadent as well, because it embraces liberality of attitudes. I'm forced to buy magazines suitable for the younger age group as a result.
The Restoration period was known to be licentious and we seem to be harking back to it with the type of content found in magazines nowadays. This is definitely history repeating itself!
I rented a few dvds for my viewing pleasure and they included the collection of the British comedy 'Mind Your Language'. It is about a group of foreign students who learn English from their teacher and the madcap antics they do, peppered with linguistic jokes. It really brought out the guffaws in me. The collection, together with other dvds, certainly cost me a bomb.
Thus I've promised myself that I won't buy any more books till I've finished the ones I've bought and any more magazines or dvds for a long time. What is more, I still have my literary collection to peruse. I didn't do every single text in it when schooling, since we had the liberty to pick and choose our texts.
My bank account total has been slowly but surely decreasing with each purchase I make. It's quite heart- wrenching to see that. I'm trying to be more controlled in my spending nowadays and as far as possible.
I often go to the library and take advantage of the DEAR campaign each year. I also patronise second-hand book sales at Thomson Plaza, The Concourse and Bras Basah Complex. They are much cheaper than new books but the thing about new books is that they are really interesting and are those on the literary market.
My bookcase is already full due to my extensive collection of literary texts as an undergraduate. Ever since chic-lit came into the market, I've bought scores of books and despite the pile of books that I've not even unwrapped from their plastic covers, lingering on my table, I fall into temptation to buy new ones. Sigh. I've also started buying Chinese books on self-improvement. I have actually graduated in taste from books on days of long ago in various countries. Oh, how am I going to squeeze my new books into the bookcase?! I think I've to create a top layer on the existing piles.
I also get enticed by magazines. I used to buy local ones which are cheaper but with age, I've started to buy foreign ones as well. My magazine racks are full now. So when I do buy, I give them away. I try to control my buying rate by being more critical of the content featured on the covers. If it's irrelevant to me, I don't buy it.
Yes, foreign magazines are more expensive due to the exchange rates but I buy the cheaper ones. Still, I find that local magazines are trying to catch up with them in terms of content, which is more mature and yet immoral. Though it is the order of the day with progression of minds, progression can also be decadent as well, because it embraces liberality of attitudes. I'm forced to buy magazines suitable for the younger age group as a result.
The Restoration period was known to be licentious and we seem to be harking back to it with the type of content found in magazines nowadays. This is definitely history repeating itself!
I rented a few dvds for my viewing pleasure and they included the collection of the British comedy 'Mind Your Language'. It is about a group of foreign students who learn English from their teacher and the madcap antics they do, peppered with linguistic jokes. It really brought out the guffaws in me. The collection, together with other dvds, certainly cost me a bomb.
Thus I've promised myself that I won't buy any more books till I've finished the ones I've bought and any more magazines or dvds for a long time. What is more, I still have my literary collection to peruse. I didn't do every single text in it when schooling, since we had the liberty to pick and choose our texts.
My bank account total has been slowly but surely decreasing with each purchase I make. It's quite heart- wrenching to see that. I'm trying to be more controlled in my spending nowadays and as far as possible.
I often go to the library and take advantage of the DEAR campaign each year. I also patronise second-hand book sales at Thomson Plaza, The Concourse and Bras Basah Complex. They are much cheaper than new books but the thing about new books is that they are really interesting and are those on the literary market.
Accessories
Shoes - most women go crazy over these dainty footwear items. You see them swarming shops like Charles and Keith or Pretty Fit as they ooh and aah over the latest shoe designs before preening their feet in front of the mirrors to see how the shoes fit on their perfectly pedicured feet. To think that back in ancient China, women had wrapped their feet in binding cloths before squeezing them into porcelain shoes that reduced their foot size for good, as compared to women nowadays who are spoilt for choices in the shoes department that cater to their foot size!
I've always been one who is attracted by open-toed footwear, especially strappy slippers and kitten heels in earth colours. They allow the feet to 'breathe' better. However, I've now expanded my tastes to more feminine designs like floral and pink-coloured types, though I balance them with muted tones. I would like to share some of my favourite pairs of shoes here.
I had a pair of earth-coloured slippers with flowers of the same colour on the straps and now this simple pair of muted pink slippers. I just bought two more pairs of slippers and one of them is absolutely gorgeous. The lavender slippers are adorned with small purple roses on the straps. It cost only $16.90 from DMK at Seiyu Bishan. I've not gotten down to wearing them though.
I had a pair of brown kitten heels with a floral pattern of brown and white on the fabric strap, and now another ivory pair with little ribbons at the side of the strap. I also have a pair of low wedges in white and yellowish-green with a bow in front. I just bought another pair of muted pink wedges with sequinned flowers and the open-toed cut is unique. It cost $20 from Bata Thomson Plaza. I've not gotten down to wearing them as well.
I fell in love with 2 pairs of heels adorned with purple roses on the straps but had to forgo them because of the price and the height of the heels. Oh well, I already have the slippers and that's better than not having any at all!
I've a different purpose for each type of footwear. I wear slippers for weekdays except when I go for mass or concerts, and wear heels or wedges for weekends when I go for mass. Still, I am proud to proclaim that all in all, I've only 6 pairs of footwear in total unlike so many other women. Hehe. I do have a pair of black high heels but that's only worn during my choir performances as part of the dress code.
Handphones - technological gadgets that initially guys hanker after but now even women cannot seem to do without them. There are sweet colours to catch the eye of the females. There are also pictures and patterns on the cases for those who indulge in buying them.
I own one of these at a time and I'm not one who changes handphones with the latest trends. What I've had so far are old models. Just the basic features of ringtones, call register, contacts, messages and an alarm clock will do. However, my current one is a camera phone and I'm ecstatic with the phone as a whole. I've taken 2 photographs so far.
Digital Times published an article on 5 creative uses for the cellphone and 4 are using the camera. This suits me just fine since I've a camera phone now! To adapt from it, I can send a photograph of the product to my mum if I'm not sure what brand of groceries she wants when running errands for her. I'm not very street- savvy so I can take photographs of landmarks when I'm in a foreign place so as to get my directions right. I can even take spontaneous shots of whatever catches my fancy while out!
I never fail to wear a new outfit every Christmas and scout around for one closer to the date. Sometimes, I've difficulty choosing among a few, since I shop on my own. I can take shots of each one and show them to my girlfriends for their opinions before actually buying one! Owning a camera phone is really awesome! I'm so grateful for it! :D
I've always been one who is attracted by open-toed footwear, especially strappy slippers and kitten heels in earth colours. They allow the feet to 'breathe' better. However, I've now expanded my tastes to more feminine designs like floral and pink-coloured types, though I balance them with muted tones. I would like to share some of my favourite pairs of shoes here.
I had a pair of earth-coloured slippers with flowers of the same colour on the straps and now this simple pair of muted pink slippers. I just bought two more pairs of slippers and one of them is absolutely gorgeous. The lavender slippers are adorned with small purple roses on the straps. It cost only $16.90 from DMK at Seiyu Bishan. I've not gotten down to wearing them though.
I had a pair of brown kitten heels with a floral pattern of brown and white on the fabric strap, and now another ivory pair with little ribbons at the side of the strap. I also have a pair of low wedges in white and yellowish-green with a bow in front. I just bought another pair of muted pink wedges with sequinned flowers and the open-toed cut is unique. It cost $20 from Bata Thomson Plaza. I've not gotten down to wearing them as well.
I fell in love with 2 pairs of heels adorned with purple roses on the straps but had to forgo them because of the price and the height of the heels. Oh well, I already have the slippers and that's better than not having any at all!
I've a different purpose for each type of footwear. I wear slippers for weekdays except when I go for mass or concerts, and wear heels or wedges for weekends when I go for mass. Still, I am proud to proclaim that all in all, I've only 6 pairs of footwear in total unlike so many other women. Hehe. I do have a pair of black high heels but that's only worn during my choir performances as part of the dress code.
Handphones - technological gadgets that initially guys hanker after but now even women cannot seem to do without them. There are sweet colours to catch the eye of the females. There are also pictures and patterns on the cases for those who indulge in buying them.
I own one of these at a time and I'm not one who changes handphones with the latest trends. What I've had so far are old models. Just the basic features of ringtones, call register, contacts, messages and an alarm clock will do. However, my current one is a camera phone and I'm ecstatic with the phone as a whole. I've taken 2 photographs so far.
Digital Times published an article on 5 creative uses for the cellphone and 4 are using the camera. This suits me just fine since I've a camera phone now! To adapt from it, I can send a photograph of the product to my mum if I'm not sure what brand of groceries she wants when running errands for her. I'm not very street- savvy so I can take photographs of landmarks when I'm in a foreign place so as to get my directions right. I can even take spontaneous shots of whatever catches my fancy while out!
I never fail to wear a new outfit every Christmas and scout around for one closer to the date. Sometimes, I've difficulty choosing among a few, since I shop on my own. I can take shots of each one and show them to my girlfriends for their opinions before actually buying one! Owning a camera phone is really awesome! I'm so grateful for it! :D
Night markets or pasar malams
Images of bustling crowds, cheap and fascinating products, sticky and sweaty bodies nearby, good and unhealthy food, boisterous sellers and long waits are conjured up in my mind by the utterance of this term on my lips. Despite the negative connotations, each time a pasar malam is set up at an estate near my house, I flock to it. The best time to browse through its wares is at around 8pm.
I went to one at the Serangoon Interchange area. It was really alive with people thronging the stalls amidst the sweltering heat that comes from our humid climate. I had a mission in mind - to get as many stickers as I could for my students. I headed straight for a stall that sold Disney merchandise. It was selling stickers dirt cheap. There were long packets sold at 5 for $1, medium packets sold at 2 for $1 and small packets sold at 10 for $1. I bought 20 in all and I was even given another 2 packets free! I spent only $4.50 for the above! It was such a good deal!
I came across other enticing wares such as potted plants, children's educational software, bedlinen, stationery, clothes, toys and accessories. A word of caution though: try not to buy handphone casings as they may not be original. I saw some pastel-coloured long skirts. They were really pretty and sweet, which drew my eyes immediately. However, the clothes sold at pasar malams may not be cheaper than those sold at shopping outlets.
There were also game stalls and a corner for amusement rides catering to the kids. The Bumper Cars were especially attractive as I had ridden in them when I was younger. However I find them rather violent in impact due to the fact that my friend had hit another car and caused my glasses to fly off my face in the process! Thank goodness I found them after the ride.
Well, I certainly enjoyed myself just browsing through the stalls even though I was not with anyone else. Go visit it if you can, before it completes its lease period and stops operations!
I went to one at the Serangoon Interchange area. It was really alive with people thronging the stalls amidst the sweltering heat that comes from our humid climate. I had a mission in mind - to get as many stickers as I could for my students. I headed straight for a stall that sold Disney merchandise. It was selling stickers dirt cheap. There were long packets sold at 5 for $1, medium packets sold at 2 for $1 and small packets sold at 10 for $1. I bought 20 in all and I was even given another 2 packets free! I spent only $4.50 for the above! It was such a good deal!
I came across other enticing wares such as potted plants, children's educational software, bedlinen, stationery, clothes, toys and accessories. A word of caution though: try not to buy handphone casings as they may not be original. I saw some pastel-coloured long skirts. They were really pretty and sweet, which drew my eyes immediately. However, the clothes sold at pasar malams may not be cheaper than those sold at shopping outlets.
There were also game stalls and a corner for amusement rides catering to the kids. The Bumper Cars were especially attractive as I had ridden in them when I was younger. However I find them rather violent in impact due to the fact that my friend had hit another car and caused my glasses to fly off my face in the process! Thank goodness I found them after the ride.
Well, I certainly enjoyed myself just browsing through the stalls even though I was not with anyone else. Go visit it if you can, before it completes its lease period and stops operations!
My shopping spree
I went on a shopping spree at NTUC and bought more things than necessary due to greed. :P The good thing is that they are healthy products.
I had initially planned to get only my favourite brand of yoghurt which is on offer - Meiji Yoghurt at $2.20 for 3. However, I got tempted to go to other shelves and bought tuna snack, herbal jelly with mint, aloe vera, cereal and instant soup as well. Sigh. Oh well, I'll take it as stocking up for the future then. :P
Budget Tai Tai Tabitha Wang wrote an article entitled Supermarket Sweepstakes. She finds that she tends to buy more items than she planned to each time she goes to the supermarket. I like to go to the supermarket too. My favourite one is NTUC for its prices and Cold Storage for its Christmas range of products. I do have the tendency she wrote about.
I just went to NTUC over the weekend to shop for my meals. My parents will be away for the week and I plan to cook my meals for a change. Though I did have a rough shopping list, I bought other things which weren't on it. I had a feeling that I would spend above my budget of $30 even though I chose items of brands which had the cheapest prices. Thank goodness I spent only $3 more. Still, it's a happy feeling shopping in the supermarket as I plan for my meals. I seldom get to do so and cherish the feeling I had then. :)
I had initially planned to get only my favourite brand of yoghurt which is on offer - Meiji Yoghurt at $2.20 for 3. However, I got tempted to go to other shelves and bought tuna snack, herbal jelly with mint, aloe vera, cereal and instant soup as well. Sigh. Oh well, I'll take it as stocking up for the future then. :P
Budget Tai Tai Tabitha Wang wrote an article entitled Supermarket Sweepstakes. She finds that she tends to buy more items than she planned to each time she goes to the supermarket. I like to go to the supermarket too. My favourite one is NTUC for its prices and Cold Storage for its Christmas range of products. I do have the tendency she wrote about.
I just went to NTUC over the weekend to shop for my meals. My parents will be away for the week and I plan to cook my meals for a change. Though I did have a rough shopping list, I bought other things which weren't on it. I had a feeling that I would spend above my budget of $30 even though I chose items of brands which had the cheapest prices. Thank goodness I spent only $3 more. Still, it's a happy feeling shopping in the supermarket as I plan for my meals. I seldom get to do so and cherish the feeling I had then. :)
Travel preferences
There was an article in the newspapers that mentioned Malaysians' travel preferences as eating and shopping. This is notwithstanding the fact that Malaysia is bigger than Singapore and has natural reserves, waterfalls and farms for tourists as well as locals to visit. It seems more justified thus that Singaporeans' pastimes are the same.
Travelling in itself is a glorious activity to carry out. One is exposed to historical sights, cultural attractions and intriguing lifestyles in the process. I would like to travel back in time(no pun intended) to my past holidays and share here some of the special moments I've spent overseas.
On my first holiday, to Malaysia when I was four, I vomited twice on the way. I had motion sickness and from then on, I lived in that knowledge. Thus I would take preventive medicine to counter it before a flight. It was not until a few years ago that I thought that it may be psychological after all. I attempted not to take the medicine and indeed, it was just a phobia I had been nursing all those years. I'm now happily surviving flights with prayer, which is really the best preventive measure of all!
On my second trip, to Manila and Hong Kong, I was P2 and I remember this pretty lady who was really our tour guide then. She still is to me after all this time. I have her photo in the album. Her smile radiates with sweet beauty. I went on my first cruise after that, to Phuket. I went with some family friends and was treated very well, being the youngest there. I remember this white and pink dress I wore on the ship. I still have the photo. It was a sleeveless dress with a vest thrown over it. The background was white and the knitted roses on it were pink.
On my next trip to Europe when I was P3, I roamed around with a childhood friend and in those days of innocence, I was not afraid of anything. My parents were my protectors. I remember I hated wearing jeans but was forced to because it keeps me warm. I was so happy when I could finally wear a dress in France. I felt I was my true feminine self. The dress was an Angelcake one, who is a friend of Strawberry Shortcake.
On my next trip to USA after my PSLE, I was beginning to be aware of guys and thus felt awkward with my childhood friend who was once again my playmate. We managed to shrug off our discomfort halfway through the trip. As I grew into my twenties, my vacations became more frequent and occurred at shorter intervals. Travelling became family times and breaks from stress, for me. It also renewed my appreciation for God and my country.
There was an exception though. I went on my first and only trip without my family, to Cameron. I went with some close friends and it was a time when our friendship and love were strengthened. We looked out for each other in the process. We were also divinely protected because upon returning, we heard that our hotel is haunted. We had spent every night in prayer, fortunately. I thank God for that trip.
My parents had retired when I hit my 20s and were freer to go overseas. We travelled the globe, literally. Our London trip evoked in me a love for tennis as my dad brought us to the Wimbledon Tennis Museum. The history of the game was explained in an interesting manner and to top it off, we were spectators in a live tennis match between Pete Sampras, one of the greatest players of all time and Britain's hope, Tim Henman. The supporters were ardent in their cheers and we were swept up in its wave.
The Canadian Rockies was a chance to thank God for his creation and revel in wonder at the mountains amidst the lakes. The colours of the water in the lakes overlapped in shades of blues and green. So mystifying they were! Such wondrous beauty we beheld! Our Scandinavian trip made us tired of eating Norweigian salmon for a little while, though the shopping on the cruise ship was fantastic, probably due to the neon lights used to decorate the shops! The trip to Japan was when I really went all out in shopping. I bought a teddy bear bag and a lavender coloured pendant, things which I don't hanker after. Somehow we tend to spend lavishly when overseas, as compared to when we're back home. I was close to being Becky Bloom in the Shopaholic series.
I went to Genting with my church choir and it was a time of strengthening in bond with them after my nine-month hiatus. It was a time of God's mercy and kindness unto me as well as a reliance on His power. We learnt about humility, trust, friendship and love too. I got to know someone better, who is now my god-brother. He gave me a teddy bear that I still treasure because it's soft, fat and cuddly. Also, it's suitable for asthmatic me , as it has a smooth surface. :)
My trip to China made me swear off stepping into it a second time. The oily and salty food, plus the unrefined civilians turn me off. I'm not the only one who thinks this way apparently but it's actually their upbringing that brings about the uncouthness. The Great Wall brought out my height phobia because the steps are really steep. It was also my first and last time being exposed to the smell of Smelly Beancurd, an apparently favourite dish of the mainland Chinese. We fled back to the bus because it smelt like the contents in a toilet! No offence here but that is what it is to me.
Travelling in itself is a glorious activity to carry out. One is exposed to historical sights, cultural attractions and intriguing lifestyles in the process. I would like to travel back in time(no pun intended) to my past holidays and share here some of the special moments I've spent overseas.
On my first holiday, to Malaysia when I was four, I vomited twice on the way. I had motion sickness and from then on, I lived in that knowledge. Thus I would take preventive medicine to counter it before a flight. It was not until a few years ago that I thought that it may be psychological after all. I attempted not to take the medicine and indeed, it was just a phobia I had been nursing all those years. I'm now happily surviving flights with prayer, which is really the best preventive measure of all!
On my second trip, to Manila and Hong Kong, I was P2 and I remember this pretty lady who was really our tour guide then. She still is to me after all this time. I have her photo in the album. Her smile radiates with sweet beauty. I went on my first cruise after that, to Phuket. I went with some family friends and was treated very well, being the youngest there. I remember this white and pink dress I wore on the ship. I still have the photo. It was a sleeveless dress with a vest thrown over it. The background was white and the knitted roses on it were pink.
On my next trip to Europe when I was P3, I roamed around with a childhood friend and in those days of innocence, I was not afraid of anything. My parents were my protectors. I remember I hated wearing jeans but was forced to because it keeps me warm. I was so happy when I could finally wear a dress in France. I felt I was my true feminine self. The dress was an Angelcake one, who is a friend of Strawberry Shortcake.
On my next trip to USA after my PSLE, I was beginning to be aware of guys and thus felt awkward with my childhood friend who was once again my playmate. We managed to shrug off our discomfort halfway through the trip. As I grew into my twenties, my vacations became more frequent and occurred at shorter intervals. Travelling became family times and breaks from stress, for me. It also renewed my appreciation for God and my country.
There was an exception though. I went on my first and only trip without my family, to Cameron. I went with some close friends and it was a time when our friendship and love were strengthened. We looked out for each other in the process. We were also divinely protected because upon returning, we heard that our hotel is haunted. We had spent every night in prayer, fortunately. I thank God for that trip.
My parents had retired when I hit my 20s and were freer to go overseas. We travelled the globe, literally. Our London trip evoked in me a love for tennis as my dad brought us to the Wimbledon Tennis Museum. The history of the game was explained in an interesting manner and to top it off, we were spectators in a live tennis match between Pete Sampras, one of the greatest players of all time and Britain's hope, Tim Henman. The supporters were ardent in their cheers and we were swept up in its wave.
The Canadian Rockies was a chance to thank God for his creation and revel in wonder at the mountains amidst the lakes. The colours of the water in the lakes overlapped in shades of blues and green. So mystifying they were! Such wondrous beauty we beheld! Our Scandinavian trip made us tired of eating Norweigian salmon for a little while, though the shopping on the cruise ship was fantastic, probably due to the neon lights used to decorate the shops! The trip to Japan was when I really went all out in shopping. I bought a teddy bear bag and a lavender coloured pendant, things which I don't hanker after. Somehow we tend to spend lavishly when overseas, as compared to when we're back home. I was close to being Becky Bloom in the Shopaholic series.
I went to Genting with my church choir and it was a time of strengthening in bond with them after my nine-month hiatus. It was a time of God's mercy and kindness unto me as well as a reliance on His power. We learnt about humility, trust, friendship and love too. I got to know someone better, who is now my god-brother. He gave me a teddy bear that I still treasure because it's soft, fat and cuddly. Also, it's suitable for asthmatic me , as it has a smooth surface. :)
My trip to China made me swear off stepping into it a second time. The oily and salty food, plus the unrefined civilians turn me off. I'm not the only one who thinks this way apparently but it's actually their upbringing that brings about the uncouthness. The Great Wall brought out my height phobia because the steps are really steep. It was also my first and last time being exposed to the smell of Smelly Beancurd, an apparently favourite dish of the mainland Chinese. We fled back to the bus because it smelt like the contents in a toilet! No offence here but that is what it is to me.
Special occasions
My birthday wasn't a perfect one initially because my mum threw away my favourite pair of heels without telling me, as they were slightly worn out. However, I could still wear them actually. I screamed at her but then reconciled with her after that. It was not really her fault. Next, I fell down along the road while walking and sprained my ankle. :S Thankfully, I met my best friends for a dinner treat and this made my birthday much better. She even wore my birthday gift to her! :)
While waiting for them, I went to read at Times. This has always been my hobby since young. I enjoy reading children's books of today as they are so different from those of my time. They are more interesting. I read one of the Princess Diaries' books on how she was waiting for her best friend and boyfriend to come to her Christmas party and how the party went.
They treated me to Japanese food, my favourite! It is an expensive restaurant though. A Don item costs $15, as opposed to other restaurants'. I felt bad for letting them pay. To top it off, they bought me a present too! Thanks Gs. However, we were given a big room to ourselves, though we didn't ask for it. We tried barbecued seafood with miso paste on a leaf which is not supposed to burn but guess what, it did! Useless claims! We wasted our money on that item though it was a new experience for us. Then they went to eat dessert but I refused to order anything because I didn't want them to spend anymore on me. Besides, I was full from the dinner. They even sent me home after that. :)
I had a quiet Christmas and New Year, spending time at home, just reading, surfing the net and watching television. I had functions to attend but I am uncomfortable with the people there, which is really an understatement. I went out with some old friends for dinner on New Year's Day. We just went to a coffeeshop but it is a nice feeling being with people you don't have to put up a front with.
I did receive quite a few presents from friends over Christmas. Some were unexpected and thoughtful at the same time. Some cards I received contain warm and touching words, which affirm me of the positive impact I have on people. I received 2 presents which cost a lot in monetary and sentimental terms. It was in appreciation of my friendship. They touched me since true feelings were expressed.
While waiting for them, I went to read at Times. This has always been my hobby since young. I enjoy reading children's books of today as they are so different from those of my time. They are more interesting. I read one of the Princess Diaries' books on how she was waiting for her best friend and boyfriend to come to her Christmas party and how the party went.
They treated me to Japanese food, my favourite! It is an expensive restaurant though. A Don item costs $15, as opposed to other restaurants'. I felt bad for letting them pay. To top it off, they bought me a present too! Thanks Gs. However, we were given a big room to ourselves, though we didn't ask for it. We tried barbecued seafood with miso paste on a leaf which is not supposed to burn but guess what, it did! Useless claims! We wasted our money on that item though it was a new experience for us. Then they went to eat dessert but I refused to order anything because I didn't want them to spend anymore on me. Besides, I was full from the dinner. They even sent me home after that. :)
I had a quiet Christmas and New Year, spending time at home, just reading, surfing the net and watching television. I had functions to attend but I am uncomfortable with the people there, which is really an understatement. I went out with some old friends for dinner on New Year's Day. We just went to a coffeeshop but it is a nice feeling being with people you don't have to put up a front with.
I did receive quite a few presents from friends over Christmas. Some were unexpected and thoughtful at the same time. Some cards I received contain warm and touching words, which affirm me of the positive impact I have on people. I received 2 presents which cost a lot in monetary and sentimental terms. It was in appreciation of my friendship. They touched me since true feelings were expressed.
Ending my American trip at San Francisco
We then took a flight to Frisco. It was an hour and I enjoyed the brainteasers we could do on their television screen. This exercise bonded my father and I. After having landed, we went on a city tour. We went to Golden Gate Bridge and walked along it. We also went to the area where gays and lesbians live in. We learnt that when there is a rainbow flag flown outside a house, that is an indication that its occupants are not straight. We went to a high vantage point of Frisco and gazed in wonder at the city's view.
We then went to Fisherman's Wharf to eat crab and calm chowder. We ordered crab cakes and they were delicious. I was initially sceptical about eating them because I had a bad experience of vomiting them out a few years back. The calm chowder was too but a little salty though. Then we ate crepes at Starbucks. There are sweet and savoury fillings sold. We made friends with an American couple and their grandson. We then took a cruise around Frisco. It was really cold and noisy on the upper deck but that is where the best view is too. We managed to see Alcatraz too.
We also saw the sun set for the second time during this trip. It is such an indescribable gift from God. There are colours of red, orange and yellow along the horizon. A disgusting thing happened at dinner time. We were seated at 2 tables and the other found a fingernail in one of the dishes!
We went to take the tram on the second day. We went to Lombard Street, the crookedest street in the world. It winds all the way down, is long and steep. I am afraid of heights and was holding the railing while walking. We did not finish climbing it. We went to Fisherman's Wharf again. We ate boiled crab, salad, fish and chips as well as seafood pasta. There is a bakery called Boudain where the bread is made into diff shapes. There are shapes of crabs and teddy bears!
Then we went to Union Square, Singapore's Orchard Road. Macy is the anchor store there but the prices are steep and the fashions are too trendy for my liking. My mum spent a few hours but bought only 2 outfits eventually. My dad was a little grumpy having to wait for her but made friends in the process. They were also husbands waiting for their wives! The Christmas Trim Shoppe is lavishly awesome, with all the ornaments and tinsel based on different themes and colours. I was so entranced by it.
On the third day, we took a day-trip to Muir Woods and Sausalito. The trees there are straight and tall, a rare occurrence in the field of botany. It was awfully cold there and we were chilled to the bones, not with fear though. We sought shelter in the cafe but silly old me spilled hot chocolate on my dad's pants. You can imagine how hot, wet, sweet and sticky he felt. After that, we went to Sausalito, a coastal and artistic town. Leon Lai and Maggie Cheung had acted out a love story movie there. We saw a group of Filipinos picnicking there, eating their local food. It was a good feeling seeing fellow Asians in a foreign country.
On our last day, we went for morning mass at St Mary's Cathedral. We actually met a fellow Singaporean family at the bookshop! It was a blessing in disguise as we had originally planned to go to another church. They are from Holy Family Church and guess what, they know one of my choir aunties! It was such a small world. The bookshop's range of products is quite narrow though. The church is aesthetically beautiful but for me, the first thing I look for is where God is. I flock to Him in a foreign church so that I know I am safe because He is around.
There are representations of our Lord's and our Lady's lives in the form of sculptures. What nearly reduced me to tears were the Assumption and the Crucifixion. We got to attend mass with a choir leading, another blessing! The cantor's voice is way better than any of my choir members' voice. It is really operatic and clear. The homily was so inspiring. The priest compared the Church's version of Christmas with the secular version and also linked the story of A Christmas Carol to our Church's teachings. That was a plus point for me, as this is my favourite story and I never tire of watching its various versions over and over again.
We also went to an open-air market in front of City Hall Building and then Chinatown for lunch. The barbecued pork's so hard to chew, different from our local version. We took a bus to a theatre. That was an unforgettable experience! The people behind don't move in for the people in front to have more space. My dad was scolded for not doing so when it wasn't even his fault! People adamantly squeeze into the bus even when they can see there's no more space and refuse to go out till they are badgered for a long time. Youths try to avoid paying bus fares by squeezing into the exit door, thus obstructing people trying to exit.
We booked tickets for a musical White Christmas at the theatre. It gives the story behind the famous Christmas song of the same name and is a love story between 2 couples. I liked it and almost cried during the happy ending. We had a huge buffet at a Chinese restaurant near our hotel. There was so much to eat but we did not have much time. I had to be selective with my portions and items. Sigh.
We also went to Borders and Disney Store. However, the latter is really selling useless stuff. My dad was really in paradise at Borders. He got to buy old movies and musicals which he had grown up with. Oh well, he finally got to buy something he wanted a lot, not just fridge magnets. :) There are many homeless people along the streets and we felt rather unsafe while walking. I was so scared that I kept praying. Timid old me!
We flew back the next day. As we ate at the airport, that was the only time I really enjoyed my meal, which is pathetic. I had Japanese food and it tasted authentic! Soon it was time to board the plane and I spent my 18 hours on Singapore Airlines reading, sleeping and watching movies. I watched Kungfu Mahjong, Beauty and the Beast, Wedding Crashers and a Hindi ghost story. The food was getting unappealing and I was yearning for local food, so I opted for instant noodles for one meal. I tried the Indian set and that was a delight though.
When I arrived home, I took 3 days to recover from jet lag because of the time difference of 16 hours. I also suffered from rashes and dry lips due to the extreme change in climates. I got souvenirs for my friends but one of the most heartening remarks was from my friend who said the earrings I got for her is something pure and as if it had been meant for her. She said she felt happy wearing it. :)
We then went to Fisherman's Wharf to eat crab and calm chowder. We ordered crab cakes and they were delicious. I was initially sceptical about eating them because I had a bad experience of vomiting them out a few years back. The calm chowder was too but a little salty though. Then we ate crepes at Starbucks. There are sweet and savoury fillings sold. We made friends with an American couple and their grandson. We then took a cruise around Frisco. It was really cold and noisy on the upper deck but that is where the best view is too. We managed to see Alcatraz too.
We also saw the sun set for the second time during this trip. It is such an indescribable gift from God. There are colours of red, orange and yellow along the horizon. A disgusting thing happened at dinner time. We were seated at 2 tables and the other found a fingernail in one of the dishes!
We went to take the tram on the second day. We went to Lombard Street, the crookedest street in the world. It winds all the way down, is long and steep. I am afraid of heights and was holding the railing while walking. We did not finish climbing it. We went to Fisherman's Wharf again. We ate boiled crab, salad, fish and chips as well as seafood pasta. There is a bakery called Boudain where the bread is made into diff shapes. There are shapes of crabs and teddy bears!
Then we went to Union Square, Singapore's Orchard Road. Macy is the anchor store there but the prices are steep and the fashions are too trendy for my liking. My mum spent a few hours but bought only 2 outfits eventually. My dad was a little grumpy having to wait for her but made friends in the process. They were also husbands waiting for their wives! The Christmas Trim Shoppe is lavishly awesome, with all the ornaments and tinsel based on different themes and colours. I was so entranced by it.
On the third day, we took a day-trip to Muir Woods and Sausalito. The trees there are straight and tall, a rare occurrence in the field of botany. It was awfully cold there and we were chilled to the bones, not with fear though. We sought shelter in the cafe but silly old me spilled hot chocolate on my dad's pants. You can imagine how hot, wet, sweet and sticky he felt. After that, we went to Sausalito, a coastal and artistic town. Leon Lai and Maggie Cheung had acted out a love story movie there. We saw a group of Filipinos picnicking there, eating their local food. It was a good feeling seeing fellow Asians in a foreign country.
On our last day, we went for morning mass at St Mary's Cathedral. We actually met a fellow Singaporean family at the bookshop! It was a blessing in disguise as we had originally planned to go to another church. They are from Holy Family Church and guess what, they know one of my choir aunties! It was such a small world. The bookshop's range of products is quite narrow though. The church is aesthetically beautiful but for me, the first thing I look for is where God is. I flock to Him in a foreign church so that I know I am safe because He is around.
There are representations of our Lord's and our Lady's lives in the form of sculptures. What nearly reduced me to tears were the Assumption and the Crucifixion. We got to attend mass with a choir leading, another blessing! The cantor's voice is way better than any of my choir members' voice. It is really operatic and clear. The homily was so inspiring. The priest compared the Church's version of Christmas with the secular version and also linked the story of A Christmas Carol to our Church's teachings. That was a plus point for me, as this is my favourite story and I never tire of watching its various versions over and over again.
We also went to an open-air market in front of City Hall Building and then Chinatown for lunch. The barbecued pork's so hard to chew, different from our local version. We took a bus to a theatre. That was an unforgettable experience! The people behind don't move in for the people in front to have more space. My dad was scolded for not doing so when it wasn't even his fault! People adamantly squeeze into the bus even when they can see there's no more space and refuse to go out till they are badgered for a long time. Youths try to avoid paying bus fares by squeezing into the exit door, thus obstructing people trying to exit.
We booked tickets for a musical White Christmas at the theatre. It gives the story behind the famous Christmas song of the same name and is a love story between 2 couples. I liked it and almost cried during the happy ending. We had a huge buffet at a Chinese restaurant near our hotel. There was so much to eat but we did not have much time. I had to be selective with my portions and items. Sigh.
We also went to Borders and Disney Store. However, the latter is really selling useless stuff. My dad was really in paradise at Borders. He got to buy old movies and musicals which he had grown up with. Oh well, he finally got to buy something he wanted a lot, not just fridge magnets. :) There are many homeless people along the streets and we felt rather unsafe while walking. I was so scared that I kept praying. Timid old me!
We flew back the next day. As we ate at the airport, that was the only time I really enjoyed my meal, which is pathetic. I had Japanese food and it tasted authentic! Soon it was time to board the plane and I spent my 18 hours on Singapore Airlines reading, sleeping and watching movies. I watched Kungfu Mahjong, Beauty and the Beast, Wedding Crashers and a Hindi ghost story. The food was getting unappealing and I was yearning for local food, so I opted for instant noodles for one meal. I tried the Indian set and that was a delight though.
When I arrived home, I took 3 days to recover from jet lag because of the time difference of 16 hours. I also suffered from rashes and dry lips due to the extreme change in climates. I got souvenirs for my friends but one of the most heartening remarks was from my friend who said the earrings I got for her is something pure and as if it had been meant for her. She said she felt happy wearing it. :)
My US vacation: on to Vegas now
From LA, we travelled onwards to Las Vegas. We stayed in a small town called Laughlin before reaching it. The difference between this casino town and Vegas is that this consists of mostly senior citizens while Vegas consists of mainly younger people.
Our hotel is a casino hotel and that means there is a casino in our hotel. There are also musical performances by celebrity impersonators who really do not seem fake, in the box theatre. There is a video arcade for the kids and even spa machines. The breakfast buffet is fabulous, seeming more like lunch, with the wide variety and stomach-filling nature of the items. The television programmes, however, are really boring since the town strives to encourage gambling above anything else but at the same time, they are sexually explicit.
It was on to Vegas after our stay there. The town uses countless neon lights to attract travellers and thus consumes a lot of electricity. It is made up of many hotels, some gorgeous and jaw-dropping. There are casinos, shopping and eating places, live shows which really exploit the female body and a thrilling ride that drops you from a great height called the Stratosphere. Of course I did not take the ride.
We spent our time visiting the various hotels, either by walking or by taking the public bus. Luxor is built in the Egyptian style. Models of the Sphinx and a pyramid are outside the entrance of the hotel. Hotel Paris has a model of the Eiffel Tower outside and Hotel Venetian has a model of the Rialto Bridge as well as a gondola which is open for tourist rides. Aladdin is built in the Arabian style while Excalibur is built like a medieval castle. The newest hotel Wynn is also another architectural wonder. New York New York has a model of the Statue of Liberty outside.
We also saw magnificent shows that encompass water, lights and fire. Bellagio Hotel has an outdoor display where the water is "set on fire" after a volcano has erupted. Another hotel has one too, where the water, together with lights, "dances" to piped-in music. Three other hotels have indoor ones. Aladdin has a simulated storm display on its ceiling, MGM has colourful computer images "dancing" to piped in music and yet another hotel has lights and smoke effects accompanying a mythical presentation, portrayed with life-sized statues and voice-overs.
The bad thing about Vegas is that it is extremely smoky, not due to the display shows but due to inconsiderate smokers. The air is cold enough and a smoke-filled one reduces the oxygen available for our lungs. I was feeling a little dizzy and breathless as a result. I was also extremely irritated.
I bought a T-shirt bearing the logo of CSI since that place is the setting of the original season of the series. While doing so, my father and I noticed a guy loitering near us. We were extra wary as a result and left the shop quickly. Thank goodness he did not follow us any further, as he had done at 2 shops we patronised.
We had dinner at Tony Roma's and the portions are big. I ordered a calm chowder and asked for an empty plate so that I could share my parents' food. The waiter thought that I was on a diet. Haha. The service crew was extremely hospitable towards us, probably cos we were tourists. It was obvious to them based on our race, accent and dressing. I wonder if our local sales industry treats tourists just as well...
Our hotel is a casino hotel and that means there is a casino in our hotel. There are also musical performances by celebrity impersonators who really do not seem fake, in the box theatre. There is a video arcade for the kids and even spa machines. The breakfast buffet is fabulous, seeming more like lunch, with the wide variety and stomach-filling nature of the items. The television programmes, however, are really boring since the town strives to encourage gambling above anything else but at the same time, they are sexually explicit.
It was on to Vegas after our stay there. The town uses countless neon lights to attract travellers and thus consumes a lot of electricity. It is made up of many hotels, some gorgeous and jaw-dropping. There are casinos, shopping and eating places, live shows which really exploit the female body and a thrilling ride that drops you from a great height called the Stratosphere. Of course I did not take the ride.
We spent our time visiting the various hotels, either by walking or by taking the public bus. Luxor is built in the Egyptian style. Models of the Sphinx and a pyramid are outside the entrance of the hotel. Hotel Paris has a model of the Eiffel Tower outside and Hotel Venetian has a model of the Rialto Bridge as well as a gondola which is open for tourist rides. Aladdin is built in the Arabian style while Excalibur is built like a medieval castle. The newest hotel Wynn is also another architectural wonder. New York New York has a model of the Statue of Liberty outside.
We also saw magnificent shows that encompass water, lights and fire. Bellagio Hotel has an outdoor display where the water is "set on fire" after a volcano has erupted. Another hotel has one too, where the water, together with lights, "dances" to piped-in music. Three other hotels have indoor ones. Aladdin has a simulated storm display on its ceiling, MGM has colourful computer images "dancing" to piped in music and yet another hotel has lights and smoke effects accompanying a mythical presentation, portrayed with life-sized statues and voice-overs.
The bad thing about Vegas is that it is extremely smoky, not due to the display shows but due to inconsiderate smokers. The air is cold enough and a smoke-filled one reduces the oxygen available for our lungs. I was feeling a little dizzy and breathless as a result. I was also extremely irritated.
I bought a T-shirt bearing the logo of CSI since that place is the setting of the original season of the series. While doing so, my father and I noticed a guy loitering near us. We were extra wary as a result and left the shop quickly. Thank goodness he did not follow us any further, as he had done at 2 shops we patronised.
We had dinner at Tony Roma's and the portions are big. I ordered a calm chowder and asked for an empty plate so that I could share my parents' food. The waiter thought that I was on a diet. Haha. The service crew was extremely hospitable towards us, probably cos we were tourists. It was obvious to them based on our race, accent and dressing. I wonder if our local sales industry treats tourists just as well...
A much appreciated break, starting with LA.
I was stressed out over preparing my students for their exams, especially those sitting for major exams. I had also carried some negative feelings pertaining to certain situations within me. Thus my parents suggested a holiday for me.
We went to USA for 2 weeks. We went along the West Coast, consisting of LA, Las Vegas, San Francisco, Sausalito and Muir Woods. Our tour group was 20 people big, an ideal size for me. However, since it was a conducted tour, we had to adhere to the schedule and we had to wake up at 6am on the average for most of the days.
We went to Universal Studios to see how films are made. It was a great place. We watched Shrek on 4-D, Honey I Shrunk The Kids and A Bug's Life on 3-D, my favourite shows. We also went to a museum on Lucille Ball and I was glad to be there. It was a nostalgic experience as I had enjoyed watching I Love Lucy when younger. We also took the tram around the various movie sets and got to experience an "earthquake" in the process, as well as coming face to face with the plane crash in War of the Worlds and Jaws the maneater!
Spongebob Squarepants was around to say hi to us and we saw apples coated in peanuts, chocolate, icing, fudge and caramel in the window display of a store. The scariest ride there is Back to the Future, for a timid soul like me. We were jolted abruptly and thrown forward without warning in the dark! I confronted my phobias of height and darkness as a result. I was so scared at travelling so quickly and "plunging down into the abyss of hell" that I kept praying that I woudn't die! My parents' lives were also on my mind but we came out all right. Phew! Unfortunately, we left our bag inside and had to wait for the staff to retrieve it for us.
Then it was Disneyland and a new park, California Adventure directly opposite it, the next day. We could eat only fast food such as hot dogs, burgers, fries and ribs there. It was only our second day but I was getting sick of that type of diet. We took scary rides again, like Indiana Jones. I felt the same way as when I took Back to the Future. I didn't have a choice because our tour guide recommended them and she said they weren't scary! Of course, I learnt slowly that we could opt out of those rides. So I didn't take the Mummy, Jurassic Park and Space Mountain.
There are slower and more enjoyable rides like Pirates of the Carribean and It's a Small World. They are smoother and not so scary. The surroundings are very pleasant to behold too. The former is on the way pirates lived, drooling over the treasures they had found and over the women they saw in the pubs. The figurines are cute to look at but the ride ends all too soon. It is the same for the latter, which showcases the different cultures of the world. However, the additional dimension is the different ways in which Christmas is celebrated in the world. The surroundings are beautiful to gaze in awe at but there is barely enough time to do so. Of course, the latter is accompanied by the song It's a Small World. There's also Haunted Mansion, where Halloween and Christmas meet.
We had a chance to behold the Fantasy and Christmas parades. It was majestic and beyond words man! There are the Disney characters and princesses in the former and characters like snowmen, toy soldiers and the Clauses in the latter. It was so colourful and I snapped many photographs. I felt like a child again. I also got to know this American family and we enjoyed the spectacle together. It was cold though and we were shivering. We then waited for the fireworks display which my friend had recommended. It was cancelled after a long time of teeth-chattering though due to bad wind conditions. :(
I did lots of shopping there as there is a huge emporium selling Disney products of a wide range. I was so overwhelmed with excitement in the megastore! We went back to the hotel after a long, tiring and awesome day at the Happiest Place on Earth. However, I realised that this is just an accolade really. Happiness's not being in a place or setting but created within yourself and with people around you, as a decision.
We went to USA for 2 weeks. We went along the West Coast, consisting of LA, Las Vegas, San Francisco, Sausalito and Muir Woods. Our tour group was 20 people big, an ideal size for me. However, since it was a conducted tour, we had to adhere to the schedule and we had to wake up at 6am on the average for most of the days.
We went to Universal Studios to see how films are made. It was a great place. We watched Shrek on 4-D, Honey I Shrunk The Kids and A Bug's Life on 3-D, my favourite shows. We also went to a museum on Lucille Ball and I was glad to be there. It was a nostalgic experience as I had enjoyed watching I Love Lucy when younger. We also took the tram around the various movie sets and got to experience an "earthquake" in the process, as well as coming face to face with the plane crash in War of the Worlds and Jaws the maneater!
Spongebob Squarepants was around to say hi to us and we saw apples coated in peanuts, chocolate, icing, fudge and caramel in the window display of a store. The scariest ride there is Back to the Future, for a timid soul like me. We were jolted abruptly and thrown forward without warning in the dark! I confronted my phobias of height and darkness as a result. I was so scared at travelling so quickly and "plunging down into the abyss of hell" that I kept praying that I woudn't die! My parents' lives were also on my mind but we came out all right. Phew! Unfortunately, we left our bag inside and had to wait for the staff to retrieve it for us.
Then it was Disneyland and a new park, California Adventure directly opposite it, the next day. We could eat only fast food such as hot dogs, burgers, fries and ribs there. It was only our second day but I was getting sick of that type of diet. We took scary rides again, like Indiana Jones. I felt the same way as when I took Back to the Future. I didn't have a choice because our tour guide recommended them and she said they weren't scary! Of course, I learnt slowly that we could opt out of those rides. So I didn't take the Mummy, Jurassic Park and Space Mountain.
There are slower and more enjoyable rides like Pirates of the Carribean and It's a Small World. They are smoother and not so scary. The surroundings are very pleasant to behold too. The former is on the way pirates lived, drooling over the treasures they had found and over the women they saw in the pubs. The figurines are cute to look at but the ride ends all too soon. It is the same for the latter, which showcases the different cultures of the world. However, the additional dimension is the different ways in which Christmas is celebrated in the world. The surroundings are beautiful to gaze in awe at but there is barely enough time to do so. Of course, the latter is accompanied by the song It's a Small World. There's also Haunted Mansion, where Halloween and Christmas meet.
We had a chance to behold the Fantasy and Christmas parades. It was majestic and beyond words man! There are the Disney characters and princesses in the former and characters like snowmen, toy soldiers and the Clauses in the latter. It was so colourful and I snapped many photographs. I felt like a child again. I also got to know this American family and we enjoyed the spectacle together. It was cold though and we were shivering. We then waited for the fireworks display which my friend had recommended. It was cancelled after a long time of teeth-chattering though due to bad wind conditions. :(
I did lots of shopping there as there is a huge emporium selling Disney products of a wide range. I was so overwhelmed with excitement in the megastore! We went back to the hotel after a long, tiring and awesome day at the Happiest Place on Earth. However, I realised that this is just an accolade really. Happiness's not being in a place or setting but created within yourself and with people around you, as a decision.
Star Cruise - Superstar Virgo
I went on a cruise for 3 days. It was a good break, since I was overwhelmed by the preparations for the concert at ACM. It was my first time on board the ship and that of my parents too. We boarded it at Harbourfront at 8.30pm on Wednesday, 29th June. To my surprise and annoyance, as I hate crowds, there were many passengers boarding it even though school had just reopened. Most of them were from India. It was probably the school holidays for the children there then, since there were some as well. We were lucky to have checked in two days in advance with Citibank and have obtained our cabin keys. In this way, we could avoid queuing up at the check-in counter and board the ship immediately.
After clearing Customs and the baggage counter, we were welcomed by the Star Cruise stuffed mascot and two females dressed flamboyantly in yellow and pink, as part of the welcome crew. We took photographs with them and were informed that we could buy them on board the ship. I was not used to this gesture because I am rather shy but still went along with it, hiding my discomfort. I feel pity for the person in the stuffed mascot though. It is sweltering hot in the costume and he does not get to show his real self to people. The good point is that shy people will feel that this job is suitable for them. We were also welcomed by Garfield and Odie, again people in costumes, as well as given free cocktail drinks.
The lobby-cum-reception area on Deck 7 was gorgeous with beautiful chandaliers and was decorated in a grand style. The outdoor deck of the ship surrounded it all around. We went to put our baggage in the cabin. It was on Deck 9, where the oceanview balcony cabins were. These are different from the normal cabins where there are double-decker beds and a porthole. These have a balcony with a sitting area and a double bed, a sofa bed and a television set with Disney and Discovery channels as two of the available channels. Then we went to explore the ship's facilities.
It is easy to gain access to the different decks of the ship. There is either the lifts or the staircases to use. I recommend the latter since they are less crowded and they provide exercise for the legs too. We first went to have supper at the Pavilion Chinese restuarant, one of four 'free' restaurants on board, in the sense that the meals taken there are charged as part of the tour price each passenger pays to stay on board. I paid $260. It is rather cheap, I feel. The food was fine, not much impression while the service crew had problems understanding our requests, probably due to the language barrier between us. The crew on board is an international crew, with people from different parts of the world like Finland, Vietnam, Philippines, India and Thailand. We then walked around the deck area and saw teens playing basketball in the games area of it. We also went to visit the other facilities like the library, the activity centre, the parthenon pool, the hair and beauty salon, the spa and the movie theatre.
I then separated from my parents who waited for Oasis Casino to open an hour after the ship set sail at midnight. It can open only when the ship is out of Singapore waters and into international waters. It is a 24-hour outlet. I went to the video arcade. It is huge, has many types of video games to play and is spacious. I was entranced by it because it was not crowded due to its exclusiveness to only the ship's passengers. I could not play however, as the games require tokens that are to be bought with money. I was too lazy and tired by then to get the money from my cabin and then go back to buy the tokens to play the games. I went back to my cabin to watch television and learn my music for the upcoming concert before falling asleep. It was 1.30am.
I skipped breakfast the next morning due to supper the night before. We ate at Bella Vista, a Western restaurant. The staff is friendly, very and it was a joyful experience we had while there. I loved the food there. The Chickpea Fritters with Pita Bread and Yoghurt Dip made an impression on me. We were there on time and got a good seat, with a view of the sea. I then went to the library to read magazines and to shop for souvenirs. The shopping is horrible and pathetic. There are only two shops. One sells designer goods and the other sells stuff that did not really appeal to me. There is also a counter selling hand-made goods but they are expensive and more ornamental in nature. I bought only three things altogether.
Then I went back to watch my favourite television programme on Discovery channel before going to watch National Treasure starring Nicholas Cage. The show is really good and kept me rooted to my seat throughout. Unfortunately the other movie-goers spoilt the experience for me. They walked in and out of the theatre during the show and blocked my view as a result. No one could stop them as they were passengers on the ship, as I was.
We had dinner at Noble House and I ordered my favourite dish, Deep-fried Prawns with Mayonnaise. My mum told me I'd get pimples if I ate it. She was right. I did get one at an obvious place and size. I not only disregarded her advice but I also ate about 3-4 pieces. My parents wanted to join me at the video arcade. This time I had money to get tokens. My dad wanted to try out the soccer game and my mum the mahjong game but the games were probably too fast for them to grasp. I spent a maximum of $35 there, I think. Each game usually takes 2 tokens to play. I enjoy playing the shooting and fighting games. I tried my hands on the fighting game my god-bro loves and I didn't even get past the first round. Haha. *blush*. I played till my hands ached. Then I headed back to my cabin to watch more television programmes before falling asleep. I was too tired to learn my music.
It was our last day on board. I skipped breakfast, watched television programmes and packed my bag. We made sure the cabin was cleared of our things before checking out. We had lunch at Bella Vista, after which I went to the video arcade to pass the time while waiting to go back to Harbourfront. My dad came to tell me that they would wait for me at a different place and not to meet them at the original place as planned. I felt bad for having to make them wait without anything to do and so I gave about $6 out of the $10 tokens I had obtained, to a white girl who was also playing. She was obviously delighted at getting so many free tokens. I did feel a pinch but I told myself that I was making someone's holiday a joy. That made me feel better.
Soon, we reached Harbourfront and disembarked from the ship. It was 2.00pm, Friday. Some Filipino dancers saw us off as part of the farewell crew. We walked pretty quickly to catch a taxi to go home. The queue was really snaking on Wednesday. Thank goodness we got into the railings defining the taxi stand. It was around 3.00pm when we reached home.
After clearing Customs and the baggage counter, we were welcomed by the Star Cruise stuffed mascot and two females dressed flamboyantly in yellow and pink, as part of the welcome crew. We took photographs with them and were informed that we could buy them on board the ship. I was not used to this gesture because I am rather shy but still went along with it, hiding my discomfort. I feel pity for the person in the stuffed mascot though. It is sweltering hot in the costume and he does not get to show his real self to people. The good point is that shy people will feel that this job is suitable for them. We were also welcomed by Garfield and Odie, again people in costumes, as well as given free cocktail drinks.
The lobby-cum-reception area on Deck 7 was gorgeous with beautiful chandaliers and was decorated in a grand style. The outdoor deck of the ship surrounded it all around. We went to put our baggage in the cabin. It was on Deck 9, where the oceanview balcony cabins were. These are different from the normal cabins where there are double-decker beds and a porthole. These have a balcony with a sitting area and a double bed, a sofa bed and a television set with Disney and Discovery channels as two of the available channels. Then we went to explore the ship's facilities.
It is easy to gain access to the different decks of the ship. There is either the lifts or the staircases to use. I recommend the latter since they are less crowded and they provide exercise for the legs too. We first went to have supper at the Pavilion Chinese restuarant, one of four 'free' restaurants on board, in the sense that the meals taken there are charged as part of the tour price each passenger pays to stay on board. I paid $260. It is rather cheap, I feel. The food was fine, not much impression while the service crew had problems understanding our requests, probably due to the language barrier between us. The crew on board is an international crew, with people from different parts of the world like Finland, Vietnam, Philippines, India and Thailand. We then walked around the deck area and saw teens playing basketball in the games area of it. We also went to visit the other facilities like the library, the activity centre, the parthenon pool, the hair and beauty salon, the spa and the movie theatre.
I then separated from my parents who waited for Oasis Casino to open an hour after the ship set sail at midnight. It can open only when the ship is out of Singapore waters and into international waters. It is a 24-hour outlet. I went to the video arcade. It is huge, has many types of video games to play and is spacious. I was entranced by it because it was not crowded due to its exclusiveness to only the ship's passengers. I could not play however, as the games require tokens that are to be bought with money. I was too lazy and tired by then to get the money from my cabin and then go back to buy the tokens to play the games. I went back to my cabin to watch television and learn my music for the upcoming concert before falling asleep. It was 1.30am.
I skipped breakfast the next morning due to supper the night before. We ate at Bella Vista, a Western restaurant. The staff is friendly, very and it was a joyful experience we had while there. I loved the food there. The Chickpea Fritters with Pita Bread and Yoghurt Dip made an impression on me. We were there on time and got a good seat, with a view of the sea. I then went to the library to read magazines and to shop for souvenirs. The shopping is horrible and pathetic. There are only two shops. One sells designer goods and the other sells stuff that did not really appeal to me. There is also a counter selling hand-made goods but they are expensive and more ornamental in nature. I bought only three things altogether.
Then I went back to watch my favourite television programme on Discovery channel before going to watch National Treasure starring Nicholas Cage. The show is really good and kept me rooted to my seat throughout. Unfortunately the other movie-goers spoilt the experience for me. They walked in and out of the theatre during the show and blocked my view as a result. No one could stop them as they were passengers on the ship, as I was.
We had dinner at Noble House and I ordered my favourite dish, Deep-fried Prawns with Mayonnaise. My mum told me I'd get pimples if I ate it. She was right. I did get one at an obvious place and size. I not only disregarded her advice but I also ate about 3-4 pieces. My parents wanted to join me at the video arcade. This time I had money to get tokens. My dad wanted to try out the soccer game and my mum the mahjong game but the games were probably too fast for them to grasp. I spent a maximum of $35 there, I think. Each game usually takes 2 tokens to play. I enjoy playing the shooting and fighting games. I tried my hands on the fighting game my god-bro loves and I didn't even get past the first round. Haha. *blush*. I played till my hands ached. Then I headed back to my cabin to watch more television programmes before falling asleep. I was too tired to learn my music.
It was our last day on board. I skipped breakfast, watched television programmes and packed my bag. We made sure the cabin was cleared of our things before checking out. We had lunch at Bella Vista, after which I went to the video arcade to pass the time while waiting to go back to Harbourfront. My dad came to tell me that they would wait for me at a different place and not to meet them at the original place as planned. I felt bad for having to make them wait without anything to do and so I gave about $6 out of the $10 tokens I had obtained, to a white girl who was also playing. She was obviously delighted at getting so many free tokens. I did feel a pinch but I told myself that I was making someone's holiday a joy. That made me feel better.
Soon, we reached Harbourfront and disembarked from the ship. It was 2.00pm, Friday. Some Filipino dancers saw us off as part of the farewell crew. We walked pretty quickly to catch a taxi to go home. The queue was really snaking on Wednesday. Thank goodness we got into the railings defining the taxi stand. It was around 3.00pm when we reached home.
On to Sydney, ending off our New Year spent overseas.
We flew to Sydney and upon landing, went on a city tour to the Opera House and Harbour Bridge, familiar landmarks associated with the area. We then went to a tower that allowed us a bird's eye view of the whole city. We also went to the Aquarium where the marine life of Sydney is showcased. We got to see seals, sharks, crocodiles, fishes and corals most prevalent in the Australian waters.
We had a complimentary 'yu sheng' thrown in for our dinner, since it was the first day of the New Year. Just like the previous one, the fishy taste made the dish unappealing to me. I learnt much to my surprise that 'yu sheng' is a dish invented in Singapore and Malaysia. China, where the festival originated from, does not have it. After that, we walked through the street stalls set up for the festival, selling interesting food. There was even a carnival area where one could play games to win prizes, commonly being big stuffed toys. We found a Bee Cheng Hiang stall there as well! A home away from home, I would say.
It was off to the Blue Mountains the next day. The world's steepest cable car is situated there but we opted out of it because we had already taken it on our last trip. Anyway, the souvenir outlet was beckoning me into its arms laden with scores of merchandise. We went to visit the Three Sisters, a rock formation with an aboriginal legend behind it. Due to erosion however, there are only two rocks left for visitors to admire. We ended off our itinerary for the day at Telstra Stadium, where the 2000 Olympic Games were held at.
We went to Darling Harbour for dinner, where the shops open till 9pm, as opposed to other places' which open till 5pm. Then we walked around Chinatown before heading back to our hotel. By the way, our hotel Vibe has the 'wow' factor in my opinion. It looks just like an Ikea showroom! The colours are vibrant and the lines are clean. The rooms are spacious with luscious fabrics thrown on their furniture.
On our last day, we went to the shopping district at George's Street. There are a few renowned malls to peer into like Queen Victoria Building(QVB), Midcity Centre and Pitt Street Mall. We visited a discount outlet, Borders, Coles which is somewhat like Carrefour and DFS Downtown. QVB is a very neo-classical building, with gothic-like architectural designs to marvel at. The things sold there however, are expensive and window-shopping is best. QVB is huge though and is linked to the other two malls mentioned above. We went to a food court for lunch and the sushi I bought from the Japanese food counter was fabulous in taste. The Gado-gado my dad bought from the Malaysian food counter is different from our local version. It consists purely of vegetables unlike ours which includes 'ketupat' and potatoes too. The peanut sauce topping the salad was thankfully authentic in taste.
We had a complimentary 'yu sheng' thrown in for our dinner, since it was the first day of the New Year. Just like the previous one, the fishy taste made the dish unappealing to me. I learnt much to my surprise that 'yu sheng' is a dish invented in Singapore and Malaysia. China, where the festival originated from, does not have it. After that, we walked through the street stalls set up for the festival, selling interesting food. There was even a carnival area where one could play games to win prizes, commonly being big stuffed toys. We found a Bee Cheng Hiang stall there as well! A home away from home, I would say.
It was off to the Blue Mountains the next day. The world's steepest cable car is situated there but we opted out of it because we had already taken it on our last trip. Anyway, the souvenir outlet was beckoning me into its arms laden with scores of merchandise. We went to visit the Three Sisters, a rock formation with an aboriginal legend behind it. Due to erosion however, there are only two rocks left for visitors to admire. We ended off our itinerary for the day at Telstra Stadium, where the 2000 Olympic Games were held at.
We went to Darling Harbour for dinner, where the shops open till 9pm, as opposed to other places' which open till 5pm. Then we walked around Chinatown before heading back to our hotel. By the way, our hotel Vibe has the 'wow' factor in my opinion. It looks just like an Ikea showroom! The colours are vibrant and the lines are clean. The rooms are spacious with luscious fabrics thrown on their furniture.
On our last day, we went to the shopping district at George's Street. There are a few renowned malls to peer into like Queen Victoria Building(QVB), Midcity Centre and Pitt Street Mall. We visited a discount outlet, Borders, Coles which is somewhat like Carrefour and DFS Downtown. QVB is a very neo-classical building, with gothic-like architectural designs to marvel at. The things sold there however, are expensive and window-shopping is best. QVB is huge though and is linked to the other two malls mentioned above. We went to a food court for lunch and the sushi I bought from the Japanese food counter was fabulous in taste. The Gado-gado my dad bought from the Malaysian food counter is different from our local version. It consists purely of vegetables unlike ours which includes 'ketupat' and potatoes too. The peanut sauce topping the salad was thankfully authentic in taste.
Belated greetings from Australia, starting with Melbourne.
I went Down Under over the New Year period, for one week. It was a good trip though there were a few hitches. Our flights to and fro were delayed for a couple of hours each and the food of both airlines was horrendous. The inflight entertainment system for the second airline was not set properly, to my annoyance too. The queue at the immigration and customs counters was extremely long and grouses could be heard from time to time, irritating me no less, it being Australia's National Day when we arrived.
We went to Melbourne first. As is customary, the first thing I do was to scrutinise my tour group so that I was aware of their faces. It was made up of solely families, which's more to my preference. We even had two foreign ones, from China and Sweden. Our tour manager was a bubbly, cheerful and overall excellent leader to us.
We went on a city tour and then to a cattle farm. At the farm, we tried home-cooked food before embarking on a guided tour to meet lambs, cows, sheep and a sheepdog. It was scorching hot but I still enjoyed myself. We got to feed the lambs, milk the cow, watch a lamb being sheared as well as a sheepdog leading the sheep. The highlight was learning to use whips to command attention from the sheep and sheepdog.
Then we travelled to Philips Island for the Penguin Parade. The island is a couple of hours away from Melbourne. It rained suddenly when we were there. The island is a place where the locals relax at and since our hotel faced the beach, we saw campers and swimmers there. We got to eat the local lobster, which was juicy but difficult to extricate for consumption. I was tempted to use my hands but didn't want to appear uncouth.
We went to The Nobbies, a place where the scenery is spectacular and the Seal Rock is. However, we could not see any seals due to the distance. The visual imagery around us was paradisal though. The waves crashing against the rocks and onto the shore, creating foamy masses swirling towards the golden sands as well as the sunlight kissing the waters and creating shimmery-like diamonds in the sea were stunning in their beauty. I also managed to catch sight of a few baby penguins in their burrows!
Then we went for the Parade, which occurs everyday after sunset. We waited along the bridge near the sea for them to come out of the water. They would line up in a vertical manner and walk back determinedly towards their homes, fighting courageously against the waves pushing them back into the sea. It started to rain without warning for the second time so we walked alongside them on the bridge before going into the shops.
On our second day, we went to a strawberry farm where we got the chance to pick strawberries directly from the fields. It was a novel and memorable experience for all of us citydwellers. We also got to sample strawberry ice-cream. We proceeded to a winery next to sample different types of local wine. There was one which got my attention. It tasted somewhat like cherryade, pretty good. It was on to a lavender farm where we got to know about the different kinds of lavender and their specific uses. We tried lavender cookies and tea but disappointingly, the cookies did not taste any special, as if there was no lavender flavour in them at all. We had dinner at Chinatown and ate lobster for the second time.
It was our free day. We went for mass and I went mad at the bookshop next to the church, buying books and magazines. Then we went to Melbourne Park, where the Australian Open is held annually. We mingled with the crowd, bought some souvenirs and managed to take a few photos of the arena, where the ladies' singles final was to be held that day. It rained again, this time cats and dogs. We went to Crown Casino, the biggest hotel-cum-casino in Australia. There is shopping, eating or gambling to choose from. I went crazy at the huge Warner Brothers' Store, the only shop within my monetary league, since the rest are designer stores. It faces the Yarra River and the view is marvellous, with a fireworks display every night to match.
We ended off the day with our reunion dinner at Chinatown, since it was the eve of the New Year. We ate 'yu sheng' and somehow Australia's version doesn't appeal to my palate as much as Singapore's does. There is no lime juice and so the fishy taste of the raw fish is not masked. Also, the varieties of vegetables pale in comparison to ours. We got the privillege of watching a lion dance and hearing firecrackers too, especially since the latter is banned in Singapore.
We went to Melbourne first. As is customary, the first thing I do was to scrutinise my tour group so that I was aware of their faces. It was made up of solely families, which's more to my preference. We even had two foreign ones, from China and Sweden. Our tour manager was a bubbly, cheerful and overall excellent leader to us.
We went on a city tour and then to a cattle farm. At the farm, we tried home-cooked food before embarking on a guided tour to meet lambs, cows, sheep and a sheepdog. It was scorching hot but I still enjoyed myself. We got to feed the lambs, milk the cow, watch a lamb being sheared as well as a sheepdog leading the sheep. The highlight was learning to use whips to command attention from the sheep and sheepdog.
Then we travelled to Philips Island for the Penguin Parade. The island is a couple of hours away from Melbourne. It rained suddenly when we were there. The island is a place where the locals relax at and since our hotel faced the beach, we saw campers and swimmers there. We got to eat the local lobster, which was juicy but difficult to extricate for consumption. I was tempted to use my hands but didn't want to appear uncouth.
We went to The Nobbies, a place where the scenery is spectacular and the Seal Rock is. However, we could not see any seals due to the distance. The visual imagery around us was paradisal though. The waves crashing against the rocks and onto the shore, creating foamy masses swirling towards the golden sands as well as the sunlight kissing the waters and creating shimmery-like diamonds in the sea were stunning in their beauty. I also managed to catch sight of a few baby penguins in their burrows!
Then we went for the Parade, which occurs everyday after sunset. We waited along the bridge near the sea for them to come out of the water. They would line up in a vertical manner and walk back determinedly towards their homes, fighting courageously against the waves pushing them back into the sea. It started to rain without warning for the second time so we walked alongside them on the bridge before going into the shops.
On our second day, we went to a strawberry farm where we got the chance to pick strawberries directly from the fields. It was a novel and memorable experience for all of us citydwellers. We also got to sample strawberry ice-cream. We proceeded to a winery next to sample different types of local wine. There was one which got my attention. It tasted somewhat like cherryade, pretty good. It was on to a lavender farm where we got to know about the different kinds of lavender and their specific uses. We tried lavender cookies and tea but disappointingly, the cookies did not taste any special, as if there was no lavender flavour in them at all. We had dinner at Chinatown and ate lobster for the second time.
It was our free day. We went for mass and I went mad at the bookshop next to the church, buying books and magazines. Then we went to Melbourne Park, where the Australian Open is held annually. We mingled with the crowd, bought some souvenirs and managed to take a few photos of the arena, where the ladies' singles final was to be held that day. It rained again, this time cats and dogs. We went to Crown Casino, the biggest hotel-cum-casino in Australia. There is shopping, eating or gambling to choose from. I went crazy at the huge Warner Brothers' Store, the only shop within my monetary league, since the rest are designer stores. It faces the Yarra River and the view is marvellous, with a fireworks display every night to match.
We ended off the day with our reunion dinner at Chinatown, since it was the eve of the New Year. We ate 'yu sheng' and somehow Australia's version doesn't appeal to my palate as much as Singapore's does. There is no lime juice and so the fishy taste of the raw fish is not masked. Also, the varieties of vegetables pale in comparison to ours. We got the privillege of watching a lion dance and hearing firecrackers too, especially since the latter is banned in Singapore.
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