It's been a seemingly long and yet quick-moving weekend - Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
Couchy Friday
On Friday, I was mostly a couch potato, reading a few newspapers online such as NST, The Star, Kosmo, Harian Metro and Washington Post, and Lord Denning's "The Family Story" autobiography. Initially, I was supposed to meet my dearest brother for a quick lunch at his workplace, but as usual, he has work commitment which happened to fall during lunch time itself. I guess I'll only be seeing him in 2010. My dear brother works "overseas, 5 km from my house", which explains why I hardly get to meet him. ;p
In the evening, I went for grocery shopping at Giant (low prices, within my budget). Somewhat similar to a housewife's shopping, but I'm no housewife (and no wife of anyone anyway).
Long Saturday
It was a relaxing, drizzling morning... how peaceful. About an hour after lunch, I slept for about 3 hours.
Came evening, I spent time at Tropicana City Mall (TCM), which is about 10 minutes by car from my place. On the way there, I had also observed the route to KGPA so that when it's Bad's wedding day, I know how to get there. Pretty simple actually, because the distance is even shorter than from my place to TCM.
After dinner at "Food & Tea", it's movie time. Watched Avatar. Overall, it's a good movie with a touching story line, scenic graphics and exciting motions. I felt a little dizzy watching certain parts of the movie. The movie was pretty long, it took about 2 hours and 30 minutes to finish. By which time, although the story was nice, I was already drowsy because it's late. We didn't expect it to take this long. Further, sitting quite in front of the screen had made it a little exhausting, having to almost lie down to look up to the screen. This was the first time I ever sat so in front. :(
Note... For any high-rate movie such as this, it's better to book tickets in advance for better viewing seats, although tickets may still be available on that day itself.
By the time I was home by night, I felt a little weird. I had no proof, but I suspect the sour-tasting herbal drink I consumed in the evening was the reason behind it. I might be intolerant towards one or more of its ingredients. My tummy didn't feel right, but fortunately, nothing happened.
Gloomy Sunday
The weather was gloomy throughout the morning. I woke up a little later as a result of exhaustion from the day before. The first thought that came to me upon waking up was to do some paint touch-up for my car.
Darling, oh darling!
My car. Speaking of my car, dear... I'm disheartened over the fact that my car has been quite an unfortunate one. About a year ago, it was hit from behind by someone. Unfortunately (yes, it was unfortunate), there was no "injury" on the rear bumper, and therefore, I had nothing to claim against that klutz who did the thing on my poor car. No apparent damage, what to claim?
Unfortunately (again, I'm using the word), one year down the line, a few fine lines began to surface. I strongly suspect it's the result of what happened last year. I swear that I've never hit my rear bumper on anything before. It must be akin to the thin-skull rule here now... As a result of the force against it, the bumper became vulnerable.
My car has never been fortunate to be able to enjoy roofed protection. As a result of being constantly under rain and shine, the paint work on the affected area appears slightly "scratched". Only if it occured the moment that klutz hit it, then I would have been able to make my claims for a full job, either to that klutz personally because it was clearly his fault, or through his insurer if he had no means to compensate me.
When I found car touch-up paint (specifically for my brand of car) on sale at the auto accessory department yesterday, I couldn't resist anymore. I had also bought a fine brush. Well, no harm trying.
Touch-up
After taking a short shower and getting ready with my stuff, I began my touch-up painting job. I merely followed the instruction on the bottle. First, I cleaned the area which I wanted to touch up. Then I painted. And I did a few layers of coating. Finally, the result turned out ok.
Now that I'm done, I begin to wonder if the paint touch-up work will last. For how long? Any other effect? Will it remain intact?
Anyway, since I still have 90% of the paint content left with me, provided it doesn't harden, I should be able to keep and use it again in the event the touched up job doesn't last (touchwood!!).
Appetite gone wrong
It must be from yesterday. Although my appetite started off fine in the morning, I felt a little uneasy by noon. So, instead of joining in for lunch, I ate nothing. I only had a honey lemon drink in the attempt to stimulate my appetite.
Fortunately, appetite was restored by the time by evening. And then, I walled up lots of jelly and a sumptous dinner of 'bak kut teh' and rice wine chicken with rice at Seri Kembangan.
Right now, I haven't really understood how my appetite works. The day before, I was craving for and eating so much. The day after, my appetite turned sluggish, as if I was feverish. Hmm... who knows if my body temperature was indeed above 36.9 deg C earlier, which made my enzymes somewhat less active. After all, this had always been the trend whenever I had a slightly higher temperature.
Anyway, I'm just thankful to be back to my usual self now. I've got to... I'm scheduled to be in Ipoh on Tuesday, so I've got to be well so that I'll be able to do what I ought be doing throughout the break.
Discounted shopping
I bought a few things at a cheaper-than-usual price today. I'm currently looking at getting more long-sleeved white blouses in contemplation of my upcoming work assignments, so when I saw one such reasonable-looking blouse at HKE at Endah Parade in Sri Petaling today, I bought one. The price was cheap. I only found one which suited my physically and also to my preference today.
Speaking of Endah Parade, there's one Carrefour there, some shops on the ground and first floor, and many beauty and massage parlours on the upper floors. Not that many places, but the presence of Carrefour hypermarket there was enough to capture customers to go there to buy mostly household items.
Later, I was at The Mines. Just strolled along the places, saw many people going for boat ride (it's school holiday) and watched fishes swimming in the canal.
Lastly...
It's time to go to bed soon. I've got a day of work on Monday before going on break on Tuesday. Here you go, a very ordinary diary entry on my blog. Nothing spectacular, nothing interesting, but only some of my daily experience and plain thoughts.
Monday, December 21, 2009
Saturday, December 12, 2009
How Long?
The RapidKL Kelana Jaya Line (PUTRA LRT) has got a few 4-car trains a few months ago. However, they're currently still under test runs. It's real, I've spotted the new trains a few times now. Below is a video by "kelvinkhew" on YouTube:
Personally, I can't wait for the day when Rapid finally launch the 4-car trains into actual service. Firstly, our 2-car trains are already way overloaded like crazy. For a long time, we've been in dire need of trains with larger capacity due to the ever increasing number of passengers. Secondly, like most people, I'm excited to experience new things, including new trains. Given a choice, I'd like to remain in PJ and commute to work at KLS for just 20 mins by LRT daily (than to drive over everyday or to take other train like KTM Komuter because compared to LRT, Komuter service seems inconsistent).
Here's another video, posted by "turbokitube":
Strangely, I get excited when I see the new trains on test runs. At the same time, I wonder how long are we going to wait before we get to ride on them... it's been a few months already.
Personally, I can't wait for the day when Rapid finally launch the 4-car trains into actual service. Firstly, our 2-car trains are already way overloaded like crazy. For a long time, we've been in dire need of trains with larger capacity due to the ever increasing number of passengers. Secondly, like most people, I'm excited to experience new things, including new trains. Given a choice, I'd like to remain in PJ and commute to work at KLS for just 20 mins by LRT daily (than to drive over everyday or to take other train like KTM Komuter because compared to LRT, Komuter service seems inconsistent).
Here's another video, posted by "turbokitube":
Strangely, I get excited when I see the new trains on test runs. At the same time, I wonder how long are we going to wait before we get to ride on them... it's been a few months already.
Saturday, December 5, 2009
Housekeeping
I've suddenly got a great desire to change what's around me. I've recently changed the set-up of my desk at home. There's nothing spectacular about the arrangement, and this is what I ought to have done long ago. The only difference now is maybe it looks more feminine now.
The desk looks "student", except that there isn't any academic book on it. The HP Mini netbook (yes, it's a netbook & not a notebook) which comes with my DiGi Broadband subscription is one of my latest major purchases. The PC speaker is "stolen" from my dearest brother who no longer uses it. :p
Green jewellery box from W.X, black one is a gift from a cosmetic company. Purple magazine holder and semi-round jar, all for RM 5 each from Hinode Shop (yes, I am a junkie of cheap household items). Hanging items on the speaker are free gifts during Chinese New Year.
At least whenever I'm in the room now, I feel more at peace with my stuff. Anyway, after the massive desk revamp project, I've also done likewise to my cupboard and bookshelf. The upper deck of my bed remains the same with the few alternate sheets every now and then, but my desire is itching me up whereby I feel like buying a comforter which I saw at The Mall recently. It's quilted, the fabric has a comfortable texture and cute prints.
However, it's a little pricey and I'm still considering; I wonder if I need such a huge piece of comforter that can fit a queen-sized bed to replace my blanket which I feel like replacing, when my bed is only a single bed on the top deck (as opposed to my roommate's on the bottom, which is wider).
Of late, I've developed a type of thing about not being able to stand mess. For good or bad, since it seems like an "obsession"? Even when the washing sink in the bathroom starts to have little stains, I'd scrub and polish them away. Don't know why, a few dots on its white-coloured surface are enough to disgust me when I want to wash my face. Unlike last time when all that did not matter.
I just don't mind doing the cleaning myself although my landlord has a domestic helper who can help; I find great satisfaction in doing the cleaning myself. Good "lah", so I'm a copy of my mom now for liking to do such work. Parents really influence their kids a great deal! If that's the case, should I become a mom one day, I must set a good example to "my kid(s)".
Suddenly, I developed a preference for greater feminity... except for my car which I still prefer to be non-feminine i.e. absolutely no decorative items for car interior.
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Scenic Stroll at Putrajaya
Putrajaya!
This bridge is one of the most splendid-looking structures of Putrajaya. There are boat rides available at the lake. Tickets can be purchased at the counter nearby. There are two types of boat rides offered; on classical-looking boats (as shown below) and on speedy motorboat (as above). Ticket for the latter costs more, but the latter takes riders on a longer and further ride.
The square in front of Putra Mosque and Seri Perdana...
Putra Mosque and Seri Perdana..
It was a gloomy, but non-rainy Sunday when Ming suggested for an evening stroll around Putrajaya. It was a twist from our normal outings that were mostly spent indoor at places such as shopping malls. First, it was just a car-ride around a few corners at Putrajaya. Then, we got down near Seri Perdana. It's school holiday right now, so there were many visitors around the place.
It was a short but nice visit. The last time I was at this spot was some 5 years back. The place has more shade now compared to then when it used to be desert-like; there was no shade because the trees were then still very young and had little shade.
Friday, November 27, 2009
Driving Woes
Travelling pass a new test-drive unit of Perodua Alza somewhere around PJ...
So near and yet so far. What could've taken just 10 minutes took 30 minutes as a result of this massive congestion. Whether PJ or KL, there isn't any difference.
People (like me) can never stop complaining. With a car, I complain about stressful driving under our indeed stressful driving condition. Without a car, I suffered inconveniences under the hands of our generally insufficient public transport system.
So near and yet so far. What could've taken just 10 minutes took 30 minutes as a result of this massive congestion. Whether PJ or KL, there isn't any difference.
People (like me) can never stop complaining. With a car, I complain about stressful driving under our indeed stressful driving condition. Without a car, I suffered inconveniences under the hands of our generally insufficient public transport system.
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Concubine Lane, Ipoh
This is "yi lai kai" (or literally 'concubine street') in Ipoh, which I've only discovered very recently. It's a backlane street that's still resided by people. There's a restaurant along this street too, which is famous for it's "tai chau".
Food Crave & Banana
Food Crave, argh...
Suddenly, I felt so at home... Thanks to kak Atil who offered to serve me this home-prepared old cucumber soup. Only if I get to be at home with my loved ones everyday. A bowl of soup that soothed my soul.
On another note, I'm currently having a strange infatuation for two types of food that contrast from each other - "Bak kut teh" and sardines. This morning, I suddenly felt like having sardine-loaded sandwiches, which I did not get to have because I've ran out of stock. It's bizarre to eat like a cat, I could open up a can of sardine and help myself with those fishes without any bread.
As for bak kut teh, I suspect it must be the addiction I caught from dinner with Ming's family in Seri Kembangan yesterday. No wonder the restaurant is always full with patrons from 7 pm onwards! No photo to be shared here though, as I normally do not take photos when together with people older than me. :)
Below is my favourite caramel pudding which I had at Ipoh oldtown. It's sold at the restaurant beside Kong Heng (I've forgotten the name of this restaurant). The popularity of this pudding as apparent because the puddings are normally sold off later in the day. Sometimes, there are customers who takeaway many puddings at one go.
Now... and Down Memory Lane
It's none other than The Mines.
Those were the days when I'd spend my school holidays with my parents and brother in KL. Vivid memories of 1999 suddenly came into my mind when I made a visit to The Mines once more yesterday. I remember taking a boat ride inside out of The Mines; to the north lake, south lake, and a few other "rivers". It was a very memorable holiday with my family at The Mines and unexpectedly, a decade down the line, I too, was having good times walking around this nostalgic place with a loved one. Again, those were the days...
Anyway, back to the ramblings about The Mines. The ticket prices for boat rides have increased. Now, it's RM 33 per person for a 50 mins ride, RM 22 for a 15 mins ride, etc. We'll see how when I get my bonus later (if I really get).
"Banana" on a visit to Chinese Book Fair at The Mines
No one, including me, would've thought that I'd be there like any other readers of Chinese books. Although I can speak Mandarin well and fluently nowadays, the fact remains that I'm still largely Chinese-illiterate. At first, I thought I was going to be bored at the book fair, but amazingly, it felt interesting because there were more than books at the fair - I loved the art display.
One significant thing I notice about Chinese Book Fair is the huge crowd. The crowd is much larger than all the normal Book Fairs at PWTC that I've been to. Many parents brought their children there (must be Chinese-educated, because 99% of the books exhibited and sold are Chinese books).
There were knowledge-based books, history books, educational books, magazines, and even philatelic items such as stamps, folders and first day covers for sale. Many are new stamps.
Philately
I wonder why didn't Pos Malaysia open a booth over there, because if people (like my dearest) are willing to pay RM 18 for a few pieces of beautiful stamps, I'm sure that people will be 100 times more willing to pay for much less to buy stamps directly from Pos Malaysia's philatelic counter. After all, Pos sells stamps according to the printed value - RM 0.50 for a RM 0.50 stamp. Or, such crowded fair could have been a great avenue for the promotion of personalised stamps a.k.a. SetemKu.
Where's balance
I suppose the good academic performance among top Chinese-educated students must be attributed to what their parents instill in them since young - reading habit. Well, if I have my own kid(s), that will be a good point to follow, but need not be fully so. Additionally, I'll want them to have a balance between academics and sports. For instance, instead of pressing on academic tuition during primary school, I prefer to emphasise on learning a few good exercises like swimming or martial art.
Suddenly, I felt so at home... Thanks to kak Atil who offered to serve me this home-prepared old cucumber soup. Only if I get to be at home with my loved ones everyday. A bowl of soup that soothed my soul.
On another note, I'm currently having a strange infatuation for two types of food that contrast from each other - "Bak kut teh" and sardines. This morning, I suddenly felt like having sardine-loaded sandwiches, which I did not get to have because I've ran out of stock. It's bizarre to eat like a cat, I could open up a can of sardine and help myself with those fishes without any bread.
As for bak kut teh, I suspect it must be the addiction I caught from dinner with Ming's family in Seri Kembangan yesterday. No wonder the restaurant is always full with patrons from 7 pm onwards! No photo to be shared here though, as I normally do not take photos when together with people older than me. :)
Below is my favourite caramel pudding which I had at Ipoh oldtown. It's sold at the restaurant beside Kong Heng (I've forgotten the name of this restaurant). The popularity of this pudding as apparent because the puddings are normally sold off later in the day. Sometimes, there are customers who takeaway many puddings at one go.
Now... and Down Memory Lane
It's none other than The Mines.
Those were the days when I'd spend my school holidays with my parents and brother in KL. Vivid memories of 1999 suddenly came into my mind when I made a visit to The Mines once more yesterday. I remember taking a boat ride inside out of The Mines; to the north lake, south lake, and a few other "rivers". It was a very memorable holiday with my family at The Mines and unexpectedly, a decade down the line, I too, was having good times walking around this nostalgic place with a loved one. Again, those were the days...
Anyway, back to the ramblings about The Mines. The ticket prices for boat rides have increased. Now, it's RM 33 per person for a 50 mins ride, RM 22 for a 15 mins ride, etc. We'll see how when I get my bonus later (if I really get).
"Banana" on a visit to Chinese Book Fair at The Mines
No one, including me, would've thought that I'd be there like any other readers of Chinese books. Although I can speak Mandarin well and fluently nowadays, the fact remains that I'm still largely Chinese-illiterate. At first, I thought I was going to be bored at the book fair, but amazingly, it felt interesting because there were more than books at the fair - I loved the art display.
One significant thing I notice about Chinese Book Fair is the huge crowd. The crowd is much larger than all the normal Book Fairs at PWTC that I've been to. Many parents brought their children there (must be Chinese-educated, because 99% of the books exhibited and sold are Chinese books).
There were knowledge-based books, history books, educational books, magazines, and even philatelic items such as stamps, folders and first day covers for sale. Many are new stamps.
Philately
I wonder why didn't Pos Malaysia open a booth over there, because if people (like my dearest) are willing to pay RM 18 for a few pieces of beautiful stamps, I'm sure that people will be 100 times more willing to pay for much less to buy stamps directly from Pos Malaysia's philatelic counter. After all, Pos sells stamps according to the printed value - RM 0.50 for a RM 0.50 stamp. Or, such crowded fair could have been a great avenue for the promotion of personalised stamps a.k.a. SetemKu.
Where's balance
I suppose the good academic performance among top Chinese-educated students must be attributed to what their parents instill in them since young - reading habit. Well, if I have my own kid(s), that will be a good point to follow, but need not be fully so. Additionally, I'll want them to have a balance between academics and sports. For instance, instead of pressing on academic tuition during primary school, I prefer to emphasise on learning a few good exercises like swimming or martial art.
Friday, September 18, 2009
Too much, too swift
My phone is set at flight mode...
Because I'm in a flight mood.
Don't ask me why, for the sky is high. Something has gone too swift.
Because I'm in a flight mood.
Don't ask me why, for the sky is high. Something has gone too swift.
Monday, September 7, 2009
Weekend & Monday Diary Entry
Work and such
The weekend went past very quickly and it's Monday. Today is generally pleasant, except for that I was a little tired in the morning due to disrupted sleep.
As expected, I was given my first case for review today. It's pretty straightforward and I know what I want to do. Only thing left is how to express what I want and to get supporting authorities.
It's public holiday in Selangor (and a few other states, except KL), so the surrounding was as calm as a Sunday. Traffic was smooth, so good that what normally takes more than 30 minutes under stressful driving condition, only took 10 minutes today. Just once in a blue moon.
On Sunday
I watched "Final Destination" at GSC Times Square. The GSC at Times Sq is never as packed as those at One Utama or Mid Valley. Final Destination is a movie packed with bloody scenes, with human bodies blown off just like that - worse than being slaughtered. My only advice to share here is NOT to have a heavy meal before watching this movie, and better not to bring in any food while watching it. The scenes are enough to fill up the tummy.
Cosplay
Earlier, Ming told me about the Malaysia Ani-com Cosplay Competition 2009 at Sg Wang on Sunday. We're supposed to go there together with his sister (who's a fan of animes like him), but later there was a change in plan.
I'm not a fan-girl. So it's not for me to comment because I'm not into cosplays (how do I know who is good and who isn't?). Next Sunday will involve singing for this Cosplay competition.
On Saturday
I watched "Up". It's one of the best animated show this year! I love it. :p
The weekend went past very quickly and it's Monday. Today is generally pleasant, except for that I was a little tired in the morning due to disrupted sleep.
As expected, I was given my first case for review today. It's pretty straightforward and I know what I want to do. Only thing left is how to express what I want and to get supporting authorities.
It's public holiday in Selangor (and a few other states, except KL), so the surrounding was as calm as a Sunday. Traffic was smooth, so good that what normally takes more than 30 minutes under stressful driving condition, only took 10 minutes today. Just once in a blue moon.
On Sunday
I watched "Final Destination" at GSC Times Square. The GSC at Times Sq is never as packed as those at One Utama or Mid Valley. Final Destination is a movie packed with bloody scenes, with human bodies blown off just like that - worse than being slaughtered. My only advice to share here is NOT to have a heavy meal before watching this movie, and better not to bring in any food while watching it. The scenes are enough to fill up the tummy.
Cosplay
Earlier, Ming told me about the Malaysia Ani-com Cosplay Competition 2009 at Sg Wang on Sunday. We're supposed to go there together with his sister (who's a fan of animes like him), but later there was a change in plan.
I'm not a fan-girl. So it's not for me to comment because I'm not into cosplays (how do I know who is good and who isn't?). Next Sunday will involve singing for this Cosplay competition.
On Saturday
I watched "Up". It's one of the best animated show this year! I love it. :p
Thursday, September 3, 2009
Traffic Woes
Prior to now, I've never driven during times when almost all roads are on mad rush on a daily basis. It's 'puasa' month now, as a result, schools and many employers allow their teachers/students/employees to go home earlier in the evening. So, everyone goes home at the same time.
The rush is crazy! It's everywhere - right within KL city (of course, no doubt), and all over PJ as well. One good example is the area around the few familiar LRT stations. Kelana Jaya station is as usual with its huge crowd, Taman Bahagia is located near a school and the road in front of it has massively congested at around 6 pm. Diverting to Taman Paramount isn't any better because one will still need to bypass either SMK Taman SEA or SS2. SS2 isn't that big, but the volume of cars are again, crazy! Plus the bad attitude of certain inconsiderate drivers, e.g. those who like to occupy yellow boxes or those who want others to occupy yellow boxes so that they can be more in front of the queue... - kiasu, anyone?
A random picture on an average day. This was on a considerably not that bad occasion. See how one-sided is the traffic.
Why am I complaining? Isn't the convenience of a car what I've wanted? The thing is, waiting for public transport (i.e. bus) isn't better than driving. I've taken the bus (and sometimes taxi) for more than 2 years, so I perfectly understand it. The irregularity is dreadful if you urgently need to arrive at your destined places on time.
Back to the roads, it is sad to note that many of our drivers who are otherwise nice and friendly to us, are transformed into monsters once behind the wheels.
Here are some of my observations throughout my 1 year on the local roads... A guy driving with a girl beside normally behaves very well while on the road. Hardly come across such guys honking impatiently or showing rude signs to other road users, no matter how stressful the road conditions are. Maybe... maybe it's .......... I don't know. But not when the car carries couple with heated arguments, or when "marriage is already an eye-opener".
Lady drivers are generally okay in terms of patience. But some are rude in that they like to shift lanes in dangerous manners. Trivia mistakes are not uncommon, so instead of trying to "bully" any female drivers, people should think twice. What if as a result of you forcing your way through, you caused mishap to yourself by causing your victim to crash into you? Some ladies of course are sheer bitchy on the road. Men or women, they're generally the same, actually. Just that the manner differs.
A number of worst-mannered drivers are solo drivers, perhaps due to no necessity to impress anyone in the car. Some are even 'heads of families' carrying a whole bunch of kids as in a family unit. What a good example to your kids by failing to behave like a reasonable road-user. Yes, it's sarcasm here. Dishearteningly, it's hard to believe how some usually kind-hearted uncles turn into demons when they drive.
With such crazy rush, which is contemplated to continue until the end of this month, it's no wonder many folks around me talked about not driving to work. It may possibly be linked to low blood glucose which makes it more challenging to concentrate throughout the entire slow and congested journey home. Driving on the roads of our beloved Malaysia..... the Malaysian driving (note: in general only)! We are in dire need to change our driving attitude.
The rush is crazy! It's everywhere - right within KL city (of course, no doubt), and all over PJ as well. One good example is the area around the few familiar LRT stations. Kelana Jaya station is as usual with its huge crowd, Taman Bahagia is located near a school and the road in front of it has massively congested at around 6 pm. Diverting to Taman Paramount isn't any better because one will still need to bypass either SMK Taman SEA or SS2. SS2 isn't that big, but the volume of cars are again, crazy! Plus the bad attitude of certain inconsiderate drivers, e.g. those who like to occupy yellow boxes or those who want others to occupy yellow boxes so that they can be more in front of the queue... - kiasu, anyone?
A random picture on an average day. This was on a considerably not that bad occasion. See how one-sided is the traffic.
Why am I complaining? Isn't the convenience of a car what I've wanted? The thing is, waiting for public transport (i.e. bus) isn't better than driving. I've taken the bus (and sometimes taxi) for more than 2 years, so I perfectly understand it. The irregularity is dreadful if you urgently need to arrive at your destined places on time.
Back to the roads, it is sad to note that many of our drivers who are otherwise nice and friendly to us, are transformed into monsters once behind the wheels.
Here are some of my observations throughout my 1 year on the local roads... A guy driving with a girl beside normally behaves very well while on the road. Hardly come across such guys honking impatiently or showing rude signs to other road users, no matter how stressful the road conditions are. Maybe... maybe it's .......... I don't know. But not when the car carries couple with heated arguments, or when "marriage is already an eye-opener".
Lady drivers are generally okay in terms of patience. But some are rude in that they like to shift lanes in dangerous manners. Trivia mistakes are not uncommon, so instead of trying to "bully" any female drivers, people should think twice. What if as a result of you forcing your way through, you caused mishap to yourself by causing your victim to crash into you? Some ladies of course are sheer bitchy on the road. Men or women, they're generally the same, actually. Just that the manner differs.
A number of worst-mannered drivers are solo drivers, perhaps due to no necessity to impress anyone in the car. Some are even 'heads of families' carrying a whole bunch of kids as in a family unit. What a good example to your kids by failing to behave like a reasonable road-user. Yes, it's sarcasm here. Dishearteningly, it's hard to believe how some usually kind-hearted uncles turn into demons when they drive.
With such crazy rush, which is contemplated to continue until the end of this month, it's no wonder many folks around me talked about not driving to work. It may possibly be linked to low blood glucose which makes it more challenging to concentrate throughout the entire slow and congested journey home. Driving on the roads of our beloved Malaysia..... the Malaysian driving (note: in general only)! We are in dire need to change our driving attitude.
Weekend in Ipoh
I was back home in Ipoh during the Merdeka weekend. I was glad to join my cousin and friend back to Ipoh on Friday night. Fortunately, the traffic had eased down a lot by the time we started our journey and there wasn't traffic congestion on the highway.
The Mega Sale was coming towards the end. Earlier, I did a little shopping in KL. When my mom asked me to go to Ipoh Parade together, I couldn't resist anymore. We parked opposite Ipoh Parade, near the 100 yen shop. There was an orchid competition nearby (I didn't know that...).
So, here are a few scenes amateurly taken with my humble phone:
Persatuan Orkid Perak...
I'm not in any way a pro in flowers, so I do not know how to comment. I think they're beautiful.
This is what my mom bought:
Looks real from far? It's a fake plant. Actually, my mom has been admiring this artificial decorative orchid at Parkson for the past few months. But she did not buy it until recently. I suspect the unexpected orchid exhibition played a huge role in the decision to finally buy this fake plant. My mom is gladly relieved to have bought it, while my dad just laughed at it. Probably thinking "women... women...". :p
Orchids aside, I also joined my mom to the market. This is the Ipoh Central Market:
It's a real wet market, not like the Central Market in KL that sells handicrafts.
Here's a random picture of a vegetable wholesale shop opposite Ipoh Central Market:
On the second last day of the Mega Sale, I went around Ipoh Parade. Not that I really had lots of things in mind to buy. In fact, I bought little thing. For this sale season, I've bought sandal and a blouse from The Mall, a blouse from Ipoh Parade. I also changed new glasses to a red-rimmed one (btw, I 'can see' because I wear contact lens). I was initially tempted to go for the Transition lenses that's capable of changing to dark shade within seconds when under the sun, but since I usually wear contacts instead of glasses when outdoors, I'd better not because Transition lenses per se cost RM 5xx and who knows how soon or not soon I need to upgrade my lenses in the future.
The Mega Sale was coming towards the end. Earlier, I did a little shopping in KL. When my mom asked me to go to Ipoh Parade together, I couldn't resist anymore. We parked opposite Ipoh Parade, near the 100 yen shop. There was an orchid competition nearby (I didn't know that...).
So, here are a few scenes amateurly taken with my humble phone:
Persatuan Orkid Perak...
I'm not in any way a pro in flowers, so I do not know how to comment. I think they're beautiful.
This is what my mom bought:
Looks real from far? It's a fake plant. Actually, my mom has been admiring this artificial decorative orchid at Parkson for the past few months. But she did not buy it until recently. I suspect the unexpected orchid exhibition played a huge role in the decision to finally buy this fake plant. My mom is gladly relieved to have bought it, while my dad just laughed at it. Probably thinking "women... women...". :p
Orchids aside, I also joined my mom to the market. This is the Ipoh Central Market:
It's a real wet market, not like the Central Market in KL that sells handicrafts.
Here's a random picture of a vegetable wholesale shop opposite Ipoh Central Market:
On the second last day of the Mega Sale, I went around Ipoh Parade. Not that I really had lots of things in mind to buy. In fact, I bought little thing. For this sale season, I've bought sandal and a blouse from The Mall, a blouse from Ipoh Parade. I also changed new glasses to a red-rimmed one (btw, I 'can see' because I wear contact lens). I was initially tempted to go for the Transition lenses that's capable of changing to dark shade within seconds when under the sun, but since I usually wear contacts instead of glasses when outdoors, I'd better not because Transition lenses per se cost RM 5xx and who knows how soon or not soon I need to upgrade my lenses in the future.
Sunday, August 23, 2009
Cheras Leisure Mall
Down memory lane to January 2002... this is a view from the glass panes of A&W at Cheras Leisure Mall today.
It was actually an unplanned visit. To Leisure Mall today... down memory lane which recalls those days when I was an ex-student of Sedaya (now known as UCSI) for 1 year.
During those times, Leisure Mall was the place where I spent time with my college friends. We watched movies, shopped / window-shopped, dined and played pool there.
Cheras Leisure Mall and Taman Segar still look pretty much the same, except for a few changes. There are a few new outlets at the Leisure Mall, like the 'Wong Kok Char Chan Teng', Secret Recipe, Bread Story and a few other shops, which did not exist when I was there back in '02.
The formerly 'in-front-of-college' "Restoran 933" is not there anymore. Similarly, the regular Lien Fatt restaurant which I used to go with my friends was not there, and the shop is now occupied by a Bank Muamalat branch. Probably the restaurants have shifted now. Maybank is still at the same place.
The building formerly occupied by Sedaya is now called Cheras Plaza. There's a Tai Thong Restaurant, Neway Karaoke, and offices in there. The basement parking looks the same as those days when I used to go in there, except that it's an autopay parking now.
No doubt I used to dread being in that area due to rampant snatch theft and sometimes street molestation cases (though not sure about the case now). But that's also the very place where all fond memories are kept together. The good old days of being together with some of my best buddies were spent there.
Back to today, I watched 'On His Majesty's Secret Service' at Leisure Mall's GSC. It's a Hong Kong movie; I hardly watch Hong Kong movies before this, so today was my 2nd time watching one in a cineplex. The movie was humorous(it's a movie well done!)
After a long day of walking around for about 7 hours in total from morning till evening, we left Taman Segar. The roads were not busy today. For instance, it took only 30 minutes of to arrive PJ from Cheras, and another 30 minutes from PJ to Serdang.
What a seemingly short weekend! Tomorrow is back to work as usual. Will probably be getting my first task.
It was actually an unplanned visit. To Leisure Mall today... down memory lane which recalls those days when I was an ex-student of Sedaya (now known as UCSI) for 1 year.
During those times, Leisure Mall was the place where I spent time with my college friends. We watched movies, shopped / window-shopped, dined and played pool there.
Cheras Leisure Mall and Taman Segar still look pretty much the same, except for a few changes. There are a few new outlets at the Leisure Mall, like the 'Wong Kok Char Chan Teng', Secret Recipe, Bread Story and a few other shops, which did not exist when I was there back in '02.
The formerly 'in-front-of-college' "Restoran 933" is not there anymore. Similarly, the regular Lien Fatt restaurant which I used to go with my friends was not there, and the shop is now occupied by a Bank Muamalat branch. Probably the restaurants have shifted now. Maybank is still at the same place.
The building formerly occupied by Sedaya is now called Cheras Plaza. There's a Tai Thong Restaurant, Neway Karaoke, and offices in there. The basement parking looks the same as those days when I used to go in there, except that it's an autopay parking now.
No doubt I used to dread being in that area due to rampant snatch theft and sometimes street molestation cases (though not sure about the case now). But that's also the very place where all fond memories are kept together. The good old days of being together with some of my best buddies were spent there.
Back to today, I watched 'On His Majesty's Secret Service' at Leisure Mall's GSC. It's a Hong Kong movie; I hardly watch Hong Kong movies before this, so today was my 2nd time watching one in a cineplex. The movie was humorous(it's a movie well done!)
After a long day of walking around for about 7 hours in total from morning till evening, we left Taman Segar. The roads were not busy today. For instance, it took only 30 minutes of to arrive PJ from Cheras, and another 30 minutes from PJ to Serdang.
What a seemingly short weekend! Tomorrow is back to work as usual. Will probably be getting my first task.
Saturday, August 1, 2009
HP Mini
My computer. Yes, with a car wallpaper as usual! ;)
I was in the midst of thinking "oh, no. No more access to the net after this..." when I came across the DiGi Broadband promotion. For RM 138 monthly over a period of 2 years, the broadband service comes with a mini notebook - the HP Mini.
Seems like an attractive offer, and I did not hesitate to walk across to the shop from my brother's workplace. I like the fact that the computer's ready for surfing after 2 hours of activation. It's really on-the-spot - register & bring home the tiny laptop. There's no external modem required, all is required is just a SIM card to be inserted into the computer.
The service so far so good. It's sufficient to cater to my needs. At the moment, DiGi Broadband has coverage in the Klang Valley. Can't wait till when the coverage gets wider so that I may also go on the net when in Ipoh.
The HP Mini that comes with this package has the following specifications, among them: Intel Atom N280 Processor (1.66 GHz), 160 GB hard drive, 1024 MB SDRAM, Windows XP, a webcam, 10.1" screen (it's anti-glare), 3 USB ports and a memory card reader port. It has no Bluetooth and no DVD player. But it's ok, I seldom watch DVDs.
Friday, July 31, 2009
With a heavy heart II
"My" laptop... with the Toyota Aygo wallpaper...
No more PC after this... the only thing left is pocket PC. No more new cool version of Windows Live Messenger to play with. No more facility for file transfer with Bluetooth, no more facility to easily transfer pictures from memory card to PC. Goodbye, 'my' beloved laptop. :(
Monday, July 27, 2009
WTZ?
A Weekend of Allergic Rhinitis = A Weekend Wasted
It could have been a nice one, but for one thing. Allergic rhinitis is back. Again, I suspect it to be pet's dander when I had to drag my house dog into the car to the vet. I suffered once when one of the dogs shed flakes of skin due to a skin condition, and another severe one back in 2007 when there was a cat in my landlord's house. A body of glass when it comes to animal's dander, how am I to rear my own cat or dog despite being a pet-lover? Seems unlikely, doesn't it?
The formerly hostile-turned nice cat at my landlord's house, which has been given away. Call me cruel, but I felt relieved and overjoyed that my source of allergy is not there anymore when the cat was given away.
Farewell, "my" computer
No more working in my old workplace very soon, and thus, the laptop is coming towards the end of providing me with access to the Net at home. If I do not have other commitments, I wouldn't have hesitated buying my own computer together with my own broadband by now. With a few commitments, I need to be very careful and evaluative in my budgeting. The question is always "Do I really need one?" The perk of being independent after starting to work! :p
WTZ?
Zits... Why do they emerge now? I had a clean record of being free from zits when I was a teenager and was thus expected to have them back then. Surprisingly, I only get them now. To play the lame game will be to play the blame game.
Blame it on pollution in the city. Blame it on the not-very-clean water in PJ. Blame it on make-up products, which is pretty likely because it seemed to occur after I changed brand. Now, it's time to go to another brand and see if there'll be any improvement.
Not that I'm upset with zits, but instead, I think that a pimple or two may look cool because it creates a 'youthful' look. But to have a number of them may be scary since I have no prior record of such phenomena before this. In short, I want to get back to my previous state of skin with at most only one or two zits at a time.
It could have been a nice one, but for one thing. Allergic rhinitis is back. Again, I suspect it to be pet's dander when I had to drag my house dog into the car to the vet. I suffered once when one of the dogs shed flakes of skin due to a skin condition, and another severe one back in 2007 when there was a cat in my landlord's house. A body of glass when it comes to animal's dander, how am I to rear my own cat or dog despite being a pet-lover? Seems unlikely, doesn't it?
The formerly hostile-turned nice cat at my landlord's house, which has been given away. Call me cruel, but I felt relieved and overjoyed that my source of allergy is not there anymore when the cat was given away.
Farewell, "my" computer
No more working in my old workplace very soon, and thus, the laptop is coming towards the end of providing me with access to the Net at home. If I do not have other commitments, I wouldn't have hesitated buying my own computer together with my own broadband by now. With a few commitments, I need to be very careful and evaluative in my budgeting. The question is always "Do I really need one?" The perk of being independent after starting to work! :p
WTZ?
Zits... Why do they emerge now? I had a clean record of being free from zits when I was a teenager and was thus expected to have them back then. Surprisingly, I only get them now. To play the lame game will be to play the blame game.
Blame it on pollution in the city. Blame it on the not-very-clean water in PJ. Blame it on make-up products, which is pretty likely because it seemed to occur after I changed brand. Now, it's time to go to another brand and see if there'll be any improvement.
Not that I'm upset with zits, but instead, I think that a pimple or two may look cool because it creates a 'youthful' look. But to have a number of them may be scary since I have no prior record of such phenomena before this. In short, I want to get back to my previous state of skin with at most only one or two zits at a time.
Monday, July 20, 2009
Saturday, July 18, 2009
TGIF? Not really
Just a diary entry. It was a tiring week (during the weekdays), so I decided to sleep in more on Friday morning. Waking up at almost 7 am, and work at 8.30. Parking spaces are limited and surely, by the time I arrive, there wouldn't be spaces anymore. The wiser thing to do is to NOT drive for once then.
Transportation Woes
Resorting to shortcuts is sometimes deemed nice. Being driven from one place to another for once in a bluemoon is nice. However, with the generally poor public transportation system in our country (unfortunately....), waiting for a bus or cab can be a pain at times. No wonder our roads get more and more congested - people have no choice but forced to buy cars.
Anyway, I was glad that I still managed to arrive on time.
American Coffee
Moving away from the above, I had my first try of American coffee (some Americano stuff which I didn't really know) when I met my brother for a drink during lunch break. Both of us were too full for a lunch, so we had sandwiches and coffee at Starbucks (my bro likes coffee and Starbucks... a coffee-fan just like my dad).
Frankly, I'm not a great fan of coffees, and therefore not a frequent customer of Starbucks. I thought I wanted something non-ice-blended or topped with creams, so I went for that. What came out was merely black coffee. Now I know.
"How come you didn't tell me that I was merely ordering black coffee?" was my first question to my brother. "Why ask me?", my brother replied. I said "I thought since you're formerly in the food industry, you might...". Being a 'jakun' in coffee-drinking, I should have asked the Starbucks guy.
Taste-wise, Americano was not too bad. But a cup of coffee did not manage to keep me awake throughout the evening. I was still feeling sleepy. So far, coffees have never succeeded to keep me awake, unlike many people who are able to burn the midnight oil with just a cup of coffee. I am the type who can drink coffee at 8.30 pm and go to bed at 9 pm - from real life experience.
The one with the longest hair in my family
None other than my dearest brother, of course. His hair is longer than mine, the style and colour reminds me of Takizawa Hideaki (or Tackey) from J-pop duo Tackey & Tsubasa. Be on the lookout for the guy with that description at Low Yat G-floor.
For better, or worse?
I thought I could sit comfortably in a bus, but no. Who am I to know after all, since I've not really taken the town bus during peak hours before this? I crossed the long street from across KL Sentral in order to go to the cash deposit machine to urgently pay my credit card bill of RM 10 in that particular bank (the nearest branch from my workplace being there). It's just a small sum and I didn't want to get penalised just because of lateness. I thought maybe I'd want to hop on to that #99 bus. Instead of walking a big round back to KL Sentral. Since the bus is already there right in front, why not give it a try? Besides, I could actually go home straight by that bus, since I didn't drive.
The bus was still new and air-conditioned. In the beginning, I felt comfortable. Later as the bus arrived at Midvalley, more passengers got in and from then on, I started to feel sick. No puking of course, but I was in discomfort all the time.
Tempted to
Firstly, I was tempted to get down at "Universiti" station and then continue with LRT. Second thought came and mysteriously, I didn't get down. Until I got to the next place, which was Asia Jaya. I should have got down there, but I didn't. I should have, because later there was a massive traffic congestion ahead.
After passing by Jaya 33, Colgate-Palmolive and all those places nearby, the bus reached Seapark. Again, I was tempted to get down. But if I were to get down, I'll need to walk for a long distance to that Paramount station. I'm okay if I don't carry any valuables with me, but together with the company's laptop, I thought it's not a bright idea to do so. Snatch-theft is the reason why.
After enduring 1 hour of discomfort and such, I was relieved that I've finally arrived.
Reason behind
I can guess why I felt sick and uncomfortable in the bus.
1. Too many people
There were so many folks inside, and the air-conditioning was insufficient to cater to so many 'breathes'. It's more uncomfortable than being in the packed LRT.
2. Naturally so...
People are unique from each other. It is perfectly understood that after a long day out, some people sweat, and bacterial mechanism contributes a lot to causing unpleasantness. I have nothing against anyone regardless of whether they have or don't have sweat-related problems. Reason being when a person has done no intentional wrong, we should not despice a person for his/her physical-related factors, i.e. no reason to hate anyone for things beyond control.
There were also smell of 'minyak angin', probably because there were some passengers who felt as dizzy as me and therefore, applied 'minyak angin' (but I didn't apply). I did not go and frown upon those people involved. I closed my eyes and endured the hard journey.
Back 'home'
Whewww.... The blasting air-conditioner was just a joy. In light of the crowd and discomfort earlier, I immediately went for a thorough shower. The joy of the pleasant shower cream, shampoo, and even my Bio Oil (I'm currently using Bio Oil in attempt to lighten the scar on a certain part of me... which worked a little because the brownish marks are lighter now).
The aftermath
It must be gross that my appetite was affected after that. I didn't go for dinner because I was still feeling a little uncomfortable. I only had a soup at 10.30 pm. I thought, 'habislah', if I really fall ill, then all the appointments over the weekend have to be cancelled (there are 3 appointments). My face felt hot as if feverish. The only drink I had was a can of 100 Plus and a little water.
I was only hungry late at night. By which time, I no longer felt like walking/driving out alone. It just felt creepy to do so. Never mind 'lah', just stay home and call for a delivery.
Adios for the moment!
Transportation Woes
Resorting to shortcuts is sometimes deemed nice. Being driven from one place to another for once in a bluemoon is nice. However, with the generally poor public transportation system in our country (unfortunately....), waiting for a bus or cab can be a pain at times. No wonder our roads get more and more congested - people have no choice but forced to buy cars.
Anyway, I was glad that I still managed to arrive on time.
American Coffee
Moving away from the above, I had my first try of American coffee (some Americano stuff which I didn't really know) when I met my brother for a drink during lunch break. Both of us were too full for a lunch, so we had sandwiches and coffee at Starbucks (my bro likes coffee and Starbucks... a coffee-fan just like my dad).
Frankly, I'm not a great fan of coffees, and therefore not a frequent customer of Starbucks. I thought I wanted something non-ice-blended or topped with creams, so I went for that. What came out was merely black coffee. Now I know.
"How come you didn't tell me that I was merely ordering black coffee?" was my first question to my brother. "Why ask me?", my brother replied. I said "I thought since you're formerly in the food industry, you might...". Being a 'jakun' in coffee-drinking, I should have asked the Starbucks guy.
Taste-wise, Americano was not too bad. But a cup of coffee did not manage to keep me awake throughout the evening. I was still feeling sleepy. So far, coffees have never succeeded to keep me awake, unlike many people who are able to burn the midnight oil with just a cup of coffee. I am the type who can drink coffee at 8.30 pm and go to bed at 9 pm - from real life experience.
The one with the longest hair in my family
None other than my dearest brother, of course. His hair is longer than mine, the style and colour reminds me of Takizawa Hideaki (or Tackey) from J-pop duo Tackey & Tsubasa. Be on the lookout for the guy with that description at Low Yat G-floor.
For better, or worse?
I thought I could sit comfortably in a bus, but no. Who am I to know after all, since I've not really taken the town bus during peak hours before this? I crossed the long street from across KL Sentral in order to go to the cash deposit machine to urgently pay my credit card bill of RM 10 in that particular bank (the nearest branch from my workplace being there). It's just a small sum and I didn't want to get penalised just because of lateness. I thought maybe I'd want to hop on to that #99 bus. Instead of walking a big round back to KL Sentral. Since the bus is already there right in front, why not give it a try? Besides, I could actually go home straight by that bus, since I didn't drive.
The bus was still new and air-conditioned. In the beginning, I felt comfortable. Later as the bus arrived at Midvalley, more passengers got in and from then on, I started to feel sick. No puking of course, but I was in discomfort all the time.
Tempted to
Firstly, I was tempted to get down at "Universiti" station and then continue with LRT. Second thought came and mysteriously, I didn't get down. Until I got to the next place, which was Asia Jaya. I should have got down there, but I didn't. I should have, because later there was a massive traffic congestion ahead.
After passing by Jaya 33, Colgate-Palmolive and all those places nearby, the bus reached Seapark. Again, I was tempted to get down. But if I were to get down, I'll need to walk for a long distance to that Paramount station. I'm okay if I don't carry any valuables with me, but together with the company's laptop, I thought it's not a bright idea to do so. Snatch-theft is the reason why.
After enduring 1 hour of discomfort and such, I was relieved that I've finally arrived.
Reason behind
I can guess why I felt sick and uncomfortable in the bus.
1. Too many people
There were so many folks inside, and the air-conditioning was insufficient to cater to so many 'breathes'. It's more uncomfortable than being in the packed LRT.
2. Naturally so...
People are unique from each other. It is perfectly understood that after a long day out, some people sweat, and bacterial mechanism contributes a lot to causing unpleasantness. I have nothing against anyone regardless of whether they have or don't have sweat-related problems. Reason being when a person has done no intentional wrong, we should not despice a person for his/her physical-related factors, i.e. no reason to hate anyone for things beyond control.
There were also smell of 'minyak angin', probably because there were some passengers who felt as dizzy as me and therefore, applied 'minyak angin' (but I didn't apply). I did not go and frown upon those people involved. I closed my eyes and endured the hard journey.
Back 'home'
Whewww.... The blasting air-conditioner was just a joy. In light of the crowd and discomfort earlier, I immediately went for a thorough shower. The joy of the pleasant shower cream, shampoo, and even my Bio Oil (I'm currently using Bio Oil in attempt to lighten the scar on a certain part of me... which worked a little because the brownish marks are lighter now).
The aftermath
It must be gross that my appetite was affected after that. I didn't go for dinner because I was still feeling a little uncomfortable. I only had a soup at 10.30 pm. I thought, 'habislah', if I really fall ill, then all the appointments over the weekend have to be cancelled (there are 3 appointments). My face felt hot as if feverish. The only drink I had was a can of 100 Plus and a little water.
I was only hungry late at night. By which time, I no longer felt like walking/driving out alone. It just felt creepy to do so. Never mind 'lah', just stay home and call for a delivery.
Adios for the moment!
Monday, July 13, 2009
Travelling Down South
Speaking of JB (Johor Bahru)... Thanks to my old buddy Moganah for the invitation to attend her brother Sasi's wedding.
So near and yet so far... not anymore
I used to tell this to my mom. And finally, I went there last Friday. Here's a near the JB KTM station:
I found JB to be nice. There are traffic congestions, but not as bad as in the Klang Valley. The many huge shopping malls reminded me somewhat of the nostalgic land of the rising sun...with many shopping areas around.
The Trip
I took the Singapore-bound KTM from KL Sentral on Friday morning. The journey took about 6 hours. Actually, it won't take up to so long, but for the fact that the train stops at Gemas for a longer period. This, from what my dad told me, is because the train will wait for the coaches that are arriving from Tumpat. The engine of the KL train will then take the additional coaches from Tumpat to Singapore.
The 1st Class Coach
Withhold myself not, I bought 1st class tickets for the to-and-fro journey. I'm no lady-of-wealth, but I thought that since 1st class is available and there isn't anything wrong with trying out, why not? At least for just once, if not more. Anyway, travelling in comfort is nice (esp. for long journey); arriving at the destination feeling relaxed and happy. LOL :D
A random photo taken in the coach. Just a photo from the back, because the train was already with passengers by the time I went in. Not too nice to take others' photos, so I only took photo from my seat. 2-to-1 sitting in 1st class. There were more tourists from abroad in the coach than local passengers.
Besides plusher seats, newspapers are provided in the first class coach. During my trip back from JB to KL, I saw a few newspapers; NST, Sunday Star, Sunday Times (the Singapore publication), and Chinese newspapers.
Seemingly Habitual
Note: It's disheartening that some passengers are bad when it comes to putting back things properly after using. The one beside my seat took a copy of Sunday Star, put it at his seat, and went M.I.A. for an hour - probably went for "makan". All other newspapers were being read by others at that time and I was bored with nothing to do after I got up from sleep inside (should've brought a book).
I have thicker skin nowadays, so I didn't hesitate to take the unoccupied newspaper from his seat and read it. A justified act, because the KTM-stamped newspaper does not belong to any single passenger and it's considered self-centered to "book" the newspaper especially when it's just lying there and not being read.
My neighbour came back 30 minutes later, maybe he saw me reading the paper but he didn't say anything. We briefly looked at each other, but kind of understood each other. After finishing, I put it back to its original place where newspapers were kept.
Besides newspaper, passengers were also given bottled water and a slice of cake each. There's movie to watch on the plasma TV, but the TV didn't seem to be in proper function. There's a cafeteria that sells a few types of common meals and snacks. The food are sold at prices higher than outside, e.g. RM 4 for a sandwich. Note though, it's okay to bring your own food as it's perfectly allowed.
Overall, it's a pleasant ride and I was amazed that I didn't feel tired as expected. High probably because of the comfortable and spacious seat. The train passed by many towns that I've never gone to before this. It goes to show that I've not been to many places in my own country.
Like this one below:
Seremban... so near and yet so far. I've only entered the town once for a teambuilding programme at Klana Resort, but I've not really seen what's in the town. I only know that Seremban looks a little like Taiping, but is bigger and more lively than Taiping.
The Wedding
It's the wedding of Moganah's (I call her Mona) eldest brother, Sasi, with Prem. When I reached Mona's house, the ladies were busy getting ready with respect to hairdo, make-ups and attire, for the dinner later.
The ceremony and dinner were held in a hall. Here's a beautiful kolam at the entrance...
A photo of the wedding ceremony:
It was a very nice to be able to experience the traditional Hindu wedding ceremony from the beginning to the end, which I swear I won't get to see because all the while, I only attended dinners and left after finishing my dinner. Another sweet experience was wearing traditional Indian costume for the 1st time ever. A picture with Mona at home:
My scarf got displaced a little...
The Next Day...
Mona was busy throughout the morning and noon as her relatives prepared to return home and Mona sent them to board their transportations. I spent time watching TV and napped. In the evening, we (with Mona and her younger brother) went for dinner. We had Indian food. Tasty, but the portion was very huge and I couldn't finish my food.
It rained in the evening and at night. We went to Danga Bay, but didn't get down or take photos as it was raining. The themepark was also not running due to rain. Later, we went to a pet shop to get food for Mona's pet dog, and then to Aeon Bukit Indah.
On Shopping
Shopping in JB was nice. Choices were plenty, and the clothes are beautiful. Megasale too! Of course, I didn't shop much. I only bought 2 blouses. Didn't want to buy too many things or else it would be a heavy load to carry on the next day.
Sunday Morning, etc
It was a rainy morning and Mona sent me to the station to take the 8.30 train. It was a brief visit, but I had a nice time. At last...
The main building of JB train station from sideways:
Lastly, JB Sentral is coming up. It's still under construction, but this signboard is up now.
I was excited! It's the first time I ever seen the Johor state flag. Wonder if I'm over-excited. I've wanted to take more pictures, for instance the flags, but I dismissed the idea for not wanting to look as though I'm a visitor from another country when I'm in my own country. Just that I've not seen my own country although I've seen the other country (no need to mention anymore as I've mentioned it many times previously). I'd love to travel more if given the opportunity, both domestically as well as further.
So near and yet so far... not anymore
I used to tell this to my mom. And finally, I went there last Friday. Here's a near the JB KTM station:
I found JB to be nice. There are traffic congestions, but not as bad as in the Klang Valley. The many huge shopping malls reminded me somewhat of the nostalgic land of the rising sun...with many shopping areas around.
The Trip
I took the Singapore-bound KTM from KL Sentral on Friday morning. The journey took about 6 hours. Actually, it won't take up to so long, but for the fact that the train stops at Gemas for a longer period. This, from what my dad told me, is because the train will wait for the coaches that are arriving from Tumpat. The engine of the KL train will then take the additional coaches from Tumpat to Singapore.
The 1st Class Coach
Withhold myself not, I bought 1st class tickets for the to-and-fro journey. I'm no lady-of-wealth, but I thought that since 1st class is available and there isn't anything wrong with trying out, why not? At least for just once, if not more. Anyway, travelling in comfort is nice (esp. for long journey); arriving at the destination feeling relaxed and happy. LOL :D
A random photo taken in the coach. Just a photo from the back, because the train was already with passengers by the time I went in. Not too nice to take others' photos, so I only took photo from my seat. 2-to-1 sitting in 1st class. There were more tourists from abroad in the coach than local passengers.
Besides plusher seats, newspapers are provided in the first class coach. During my trip back from JB to KL, I saw a few newspapers; NST, Sunday Star, Sunday Times (the Singapore publication), and Chinese newspapers.
Seemingly Habitual
Note: It's disheartening that some passengers are bad when it comes to putting back things properly after using. The one beside my seat took a copy of Sunday Star, put it at his seat, and went M.I.A. for an hour - probably went for "makan". All other newspapers were being read by others at that time and I was bored with nothing to do after I got up from sleep inside (should've brought a book).
I have thicker skin nowadays, so I didn't hesitate to take the unoccupied newspaper from his seat and read it. A justified act, because the KTM-stamped newspaper does not belong to any single passenger and it's considered self-centered to "book" the newspaper especially when it's just lying there and not being read.
My neighbour came back 30 minutes later, maybe he saw me reading the paper but he didn't say anything. We briefly looked at each other, but kind of understood each other. After finishing, I put it back to its original place where newspapers were kept.
Besides newspaper, passengers were also given bottled water and a slice of cake each. There's movie to watch on the plasma TV, but the TV didn't seem to be in proper function. There's a cafeteria that sells a few types of common meals and snacks. The food are sold at prices higher than outside, e.g. RM 4 for a sandwich. Note though, it's okay to bring your own food as it's perfectly allowed.
Overall, it's a pleasant ride and I was amazed that I didn't feel tired as expected. High probably because of the comfortable and spacious seat. The train passed by many towns that I've never gone to before this. It goes to show that I've not been to many places in my own country.
Like this one below:
Seremban... so near and yet so far. I've only entered the town once for a teambuilding programme at Klana Resort, but I've not really seen what's in the town. I only know that Seremban looks a little like Taiping, but is bigger and more lively than Taiping.
The Wedding
It's the wedding of Moganah's (I call her Mona) eldest brother, Sasi, with Prem. When I reached Mona's house, the ladies were busy getting ready with respect to hairdo, make-ups and attire, for the dinner later.
The ceremony and dinner were held in a hall. Here's a beautiful kolam at the entrance...
A photo of the wedding ceremony:
It was a very nice to be able to experience the traditional Hindu wedding ceremony from the beginning to the end, which I swear I won't get to see because all the while, I only attended dinners and left after finishing my dinner. Another sweet experience was wearing traditional Indian costume for the 1st time ever. A picture with Mona at home:
My scarf got displaced a little...
The Next Day...
Mona was busy throughout the morning and noon as her relatives prepared to return home and Mona sent them to board their transportations. I spent time watching TV and napped. In the evening, we (with Mona and her younger brother) went for dinner. We had Indian food. Tasty, but the portion was very huge and I couldn't finish my food.
It rained in the evening and at night. We went to Danga Bay, but didn't get down or take photos as it was raining. The themepark was also not running due to rain. Later, we went to a pet shop to get food for Mona's pet dog, and then to Aeon Bukit Indah.
On Shopping
Shopping in JB was nice. Choices were plenty, and the clothes are beautiful. Megasale too! Of course, I didn't shop much. I only bought 2 blouses. Didn't want to buy too many things or else it would be a heavy load to carry on the next day.
Sunday Morning, etc
It was a rainy morning and Mona sent me to the station to take the 8.30 train. It was a brief visit, but I had a nice time. At last...
The main building of JB train station from sideways:
Lastly, JB Sentral is coming up. It's still under construction, but this signboard is up now.
I was excited! It's the first time I ever seen the Johor state flag. Wonder if I'm over-excited. I've wanted to take more pictures, for instance the flags, but I dismissed the idea for not wanting to look as though I'm a visitor from another country when I'm in my own country. Just that I've not seen my own country although I've seen the other country (no need to mention anymore as I've mentioned it many times previously). I'd love to travel more if given the opportunity, both domestically as well as further.
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Diary Entry: Doing What
Taking a bus once in a while seems like a luxury! No need to battle (i.e. drive) through stressful street conditions to get to LRT station today.
Those days, I used to dread taking the feeder bus. Neither because of discomfort nor meeting up with my dear busmate, but it's the inconsistent schedule that upset me. If the bus had been more efficient, I wouldn't have bothered looking at car.
The main outcome of such inconsistency was arriving later than required at work. Not that I wasn't late today when I took the bus and didn't drive. Autumn leaves are falling down anyway, so it's perfectly ok if I'm late today, which is only once in a blue moon.
Reason for not using "my" car today is because I'm travelling today. Yes, I am... this evening. Though not going anywhere new, still, I'm delighted that I'm having a few days off. And if everything goes well, I shall travel a little further weeks later. Not anywhere far, but somewhere so near and yet so far. It's domestic travel (I'm taking KTM... I booked 1st class for greater comfort - 6 hours journey. Reason being, I've worked hard (arguably so, it's subjective), and saved enough, so it's ok to self-treat a little now).
Many friends have asked whether I drive my car outside the city. Well, seldom. So far, only to Ipoh once, Melaka once, and Putrajaya once. But I've always felt it to be a challenge to drive a small k-car on the highway. The car feels very lightweight and 'floaty', esp when coming across huge vehicles around or the speed goes above 100 km/h. So, I have decided to sit back and relax in a train than to drive. Btw, train is much more comfortable compared to bus.
I got some extra sleep from yesterday night. Confession of the day - I woke up a 7 am today. This is how I missed the 7 am bus, but still fortunate enough to come across the 7.40 bus when I didn't expect to see the bus around. As usual, the LRT is more packed than ever, since it's 8.05 when I arrived there. More people rushing to work at that time.
Work-wise, I'm beginning to get more work. However, they came a little too late when I'm in the midst of phasing out. Goodbye my dear colleagues...
Those days, I used to dread taking the feeder bus. Neither because of discomfort nor meeting up with my dear busmate, but it's the inconsistent schedule that upset me. If the bus had been more efficient, I wouldn't have bothered looking at car.
The main outcome of such inconsistency was arriving later than required at work. Not that I wasn't late today when I took the bus and didn't drive. Autumn leaves are falling down anyway, so it's perfectly ok if I'm late today, which is only once in a blue moon.
Reason for not using "my" car today is because I'm travelling today. Yes, I am... this evening. Though not going anywhere new, still, I'm delighted that I'm having a few days off. And if everything goes well, I shall travel a little further weeks later. Not anywhere far, but somewhere so near and yet so far. It's domestic travel (I'm taking KTM... I booked 1st class for greater comfort - 6 hours journey. Reason being, I've worked hard (arguably so, it's subjective), and saved enough, so it's ok to self-treat a little now).
Many friends have asked whether I drive my car outside the city. Well, seldom. So far, only to Ipoh once, Melaka once, and Putrajaya once. But I've always felt it to be a challenge to drive a small k-car on the highway. The car feels very lightweight and 'floaty', esp when coming across huge vehicles around or the speed goes above 100 km/h. So, I have decided to sit back and relax in a train than to drive. Btw, train is much more comfortable compared to bus.
I got some extra sleep from yesterday night. Confession of the day - I woke up a 7 am today. This is how I missed the 7 am bus, but still fortunate enough to come across the 7.40 bus when I didn't expect to see the bus around. As usual, the LRT is more packed than ever, since it's 8.05 when I arrived there. More people rushing to work at that time.
Work-wise, I'm beginning to get more work. However, they came a little too late when I'm in the midst of phasing out. Goodbye my dear colleagues...
Sunday, June 21, 2009
Acer x960
So far so good. With Windows Mobile, GPS and other functions of a smartphone (e.g. Microsoft Office Mobile, IE, Messenger, organiser, etc), this model is sold at a reasonable price. It's pretty sleek and comes with touchscreen and stylus (no keyboard).
Its touchscreen is good and sensitive to touch. In this respect, it's better than Samsung Omnia, where a number of Omnia users alleged that the touchscreen is not sensitive enough towards touches.
Camera-wise, the one on x960 is 3.2 megapixel. The pictures are clear. However, the camera may not be user-friendly for beginners. This is because the photo is not immediately captured when the snap button is pressed. Instead, we need to press the button once, then hold it still and wait for photo to be captured a few seconds later.
The GPS in this phone is a good news for whoever in need of guide to go around unfamiliar places. At least the risk of getting lost can now be mitigated or removed altogether.
In conclusion, this is a smartphone packed with what it ought to have, sold at a reasonable price. Of course, HTC still remains one of the best in market, function as well as design-wise. One thing though, this is just a layperson's opinion.
Saturday, June 20, 2009
Down Memory Lane & Shoes
Here's a diary entry for the day...
June 20...
How not to remember the day? Things would only roll around when one least expects them to come. My summer holiday in 2005... Call me silly for thinking only if we can turn back time... Now that I'm supposedly independent, my future lies in my own hands, although the ultimate fate lies with god.
Shoes, oh shoes!
I sent my dazzling-stoned sandal for minor repair just now. Relieved that there's a cobbler nearby (I didn't know earlier, just fortunate that I've kept that sandal in the car, and when I came across the cobbler, I immediately took my sandal from the car for fixes). As usual, my rough usage of sandal is always the culprit behind such damages, regardless of what quality or brand. The only reason why I bothered repairing this sandal is because it's still new.
While waiting for the sandal to be fixed, I walked into Atria next door. I felt bored in Atria though, nothing to my interest. I guess the place is only nice for families or more elderly people, who want to dine and shop more relaxingly, and sans heavy traffic compared to going to One Utama or those at Mutiara Damansara.
I also bought a new pair of sandal. I simply went to Bata shop. I choose Bata today because I thought of buying something cheap, but reasonably nice and comfortable. Vincci is pretty and cheap, but it's not meant for me. Not because I frown upon it; in fact, I wished I could wear Vincci so that I don't have to pay so much for sandals. But I've tried a few times years ago and my feet could never tolerate them.
I don't have faith in how well I keep my shoes, so a spare should be ideal. Contrary to belief that girls have many pairs of shoes, I don't. Right now, I have 1 pair of leather shoe, 2 pairs of perfect-conditioned sandals, and another 2 pairs of reasonable-looking-but-wearing-out sandals. Also 1 pair that's going to rip off anytime, so I only wear it at home. And of course, a pair of sneakers that I hardly wear nowadays; thinking of how my dad used to tell me I should wear girly-shoes more.
But I'm always very scared to wear genuine leather sandals! It's dangerous to wet them, and obviously unwise to wear the same pair everyday without eventually wearing out your confidence in wearing it, out on a date for instance.
Here are a few comments about 2 brands that I found pretty nice:
Scholl - Perfectly comfortable, all made of genuine leather. Reasonably contemporary. Best for pregnant moms and whoever wanting comfort and good grip. It's not slippery, which makes it cool for someone like me who's clumsy at times. The shoes/sandals are lasting; they may sometimes look worn out, but nonetheless still last for another 1 or 2 years. Price ranges around 2xx.
Hush Puppies - Genuine leather, pretty, and has reasonably good grip. Generally comfortable, but not as lasting as Scholl. In order to extend its lifespan, the sandal should best be worn on alternate days. About the same price as Scholl.
June 20...
How not to remember the day? Things would only roll around when one least expects them to come. My summer holiday in 2005... Call me silly for thinking only if we can turn back time... Now that I'm supposedly independent, my future lies in my own hands, although the ultimate fate lies with god.
Shoes, oh shoes!
I sent my dazzling-stoned sandal for minor repair just now. Relieved that there's a cobbler nearby (I didn't know earlier, just fortunate that I've kept that sandal in the car, and when I came across the cobbler, I immediately took my sandal from the car for fixes). As usual, my rough usage of sandal is always the culprit behind such damages, regardless of what quality or brand. The only reason why I bothered repairing this sandal is because it's still new.
While waiting for the sandal to be fixed, I walked into Atria next door. I felt bored in Atria though, nothing to my interest. I guess the place is only nice for families or more elderly people, who want to dine and shop more relaxingly, and sans heavy traffic compared to going to One Utama or those at Mutiara Damansara.
I also bought a new pair of sandal. I simply went to Bata shop. I choose Bata today because I thought of buying something cheap, but reasonably nice and comfortable. Vincci is pretty and cheap, but it's not meant for me. Not because I frown upon it; in fact, I wished I could wear Vincci so that I don't have to pay so much for sandals. But I've tried a few times years ago and my feet could never tolerate them.
I don't have faith in how well I keep my shoes, so a spare should be ideal. Contrary to belief that girls have many pairs of shoes, I don't. Right now, I have 1 pair of leather shoe, 2 pairs of perfect-conditioned sandals, and another 2 pairs of reasonable-looking-but-wearing-out sandals. Also 1 pair that's going to rip off anytime, so I only wear it at home. And of course, a pair of sneakers that I hardly wear nowadays; thinking of how my dad used to tell me I should wear girly-shoes more.
But I'm always very scared to wear genuine leather sandals! It's dangerous to wet them, and obviously unwise to wear the same pair everyday without eventually wearing out your confidence in wearing it, out on a date for instance.
Here are a few comments about 2 brands that I found pretty nice:
Scholl - Perfectly comfortable, all made of genuine leather. Reasonably contemporary. Best for pregnant moms and whoever wanting comfort and good grip. It's not slippery, which makes it cool for someone like me who's clumsy at times. The shoes/sandals are lasting; they may sometimes look worn out, but nonetheless still last for another 1 or 2 years. Price ranges around 2xx.
Hush Puppies - Genuine leather, pretty, and has reasonably good grip. Generally comfortable, but not as lasting as Scholl. In order to extend its lifespan, the sandal should best be worn on alternate days. About the same price as Scholl.
Thursday, June 18, 2009
What's Love
I wonder if love is perhaps.....
The Good
Free from discrimination... Only personality matters, not looks... Able to accept each other as who he/she is... Unconditional... Everlasting... Being there for each other... Free from materialism, but only love...
Myth or fact (M.O.F)?
The Bad
That love is blind (only marriage is eye-opener)... No?
I also wonder, M.O.F?
Conclusion
Yet to experience and yet to know. There's nothing wrong with me now; I'm not in love yet. After all, 26 is still young. Just that sometimes I wonder what's love really all about. It's frequently talked about, but no one really knows the definition of love.
Monday, June 15, 2009
The Birthday Bear
The cute bear is from Veronica (thanks!!). On my desk... helps me relax whenever I see and cuddle it. And yes, there's a bottle of wine behind, which has been on the desk for the past 5 years. :)
Sunday, June 7, 2009
Korean House, SS2
Despite being a foodie who loves eating, I hardly write anything about food, together with pictures. Thanks to my beloved Casio Exilim, I'm able to have a few pictures here. ;) I'm a camera novice who still has a long way to learn, so the pictures may be imperfect. :)
It's the 2nd time I had Korean food in my whole life. The first time was in Japan a few years ago (weird huh, having Korean food in Japan), had Korean-style barbequed meat. So yesterday, I went to one in SS2 for hot pot with my roommate and housemate.
Since I've not been to Korea, I don't have a clear idea of how Korean food is. As long as the taste is good, I'll be more than happy to eat! By the way, the restaurant is Korean-owned.
1st preview:
The appetizers...
A little of everything in small plates.
Next, comes the main course. It's a small-sized hot pot with seafood and vegetables. The broth tasted nice, a little hot and spicy.
At Korean House, free refills are given for tea. It's kind of cool that we're given complimentary dishes as well, as below:
This egg serving reminds me of chawan mushi served at Japanese restaurants. But this one tastes different of course.
Next, we're also served with a chilled drink. I don't know the name of the drink, but one of its main ingredients is ginger. It tastes gingery and sweet. Very nice, makes the body feel warm upon drinking.
Overall, we had a good time dining at Korean House. The staff were very polite and the service was very good. It was around 11 pm when we're done with dinner, and it was a great delight that we're given a little discount. Will defintely consider returning one day. Meanwhile, I also wonder if there's any chance to go to Hartamas for more Korean food there, and maybe even the country itself?
It's the 2nd time I had Korean food in my whole life. The first time was in Japan a few years ago (weird huh, having Korean food in Japan), had Korean-style barbequed meat. So yesterday, I went to one in SS2 for hot pot with my roommate and housemate.
Since I've not been to Korea, I don't have a clear idea of how Korean food is. As long as the taste is good, I'll be more than happy to eat! By the way, the restaurant is Korean-owned.
1st preview:
The appetizers...
A little of everything in small plates.
Next, comes the main course. It's a small-sized hot pot with seafood and vegetables. The broth tasted nice, a little hot and spicy.
At Korean House, free refills are given for tea. It's kind of cool that we're given complimentary dishes as well, as below:
This egg serving reminds me of chawan mushi served at Japanese restaurants. But this one tastes different of course.
Next, we're also served with a chilled drink. I don't know the name of the drink, but one of its main ingredients is ginger. It tastes gingery and sweet. Very nice, makes the body feel warm upon drinking.
Overall, we had a good time dining at Korean House. The staff were very polite and the service was very good. It was around 11 pm when we're done with dinner, and it was a great delight that we're given a little discount. Will defintely consider returning one day. Meanwhile, I also wonder if there's any chance to go to Hartamas for more Korean food there, and maybe even the country itself?
Monday, June 1, 2009
Farewell
In the midst of grieving that I've probably failed in something for the 1st time ever coz I've not heard any news for a long time, I was amazed and surprised by a little twist in event. I got it! I got it!
Excitement laced with a punch of sadness. This is where I've been for the past 2 years. From this, I managed to support myself and a few of my personal items. This is where I met some folks who've impacted my life.
But I musn't hesitate to change when I'm required to. I know that. When something (or even someone) no longer "loves" (not necessarily in the literal sense) you enough to have any future, it's time to leave. It's a difficult and painful decision to make, but it's all part of the game, also in name of life.
With a heavy heart, I've made a decision. Moving forward to where I'm allowed to be what, and who I am.
I'm not being ingrate when I made this hardcore decision. In fact, it's my conscience that moved me to decide this way.
Pray for the best...... goodbye darling.
Excitement laced with a punch of sadness. This is where I've been for the past 2 years. From this, I managed to support myself and a few of my personal items. This is where I met some folks who've impacted my life.
But I musn't hesitate to change when I'm required to. I know that. When something (or even someone) no longer "loves" (not necessarily in the literal sense) you enough to have any future, it's time to leave. It's a difficult and painful decision to make, but it's all part of the game, also in name of life.
With a heavy heart, I've made a decision. Moving forward to where I'm allowed to be what, and who I am.
I'm not being ingrate when I made this hardcore decision. In fact, it's my conscience that moved me to decide this way.
Pray for the best...... goodbye darling.
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Queue Up! Beratur...
This is going to be blatant because I'm sick of this awful habit - people's inability to queue up!
What's the use of having 1st class facilities / infrastructure if folks still possess a no-class mentality? Some fella' can dress up damn smartly and even appear nice, but they're actually monsters when it comes to lining themselves up fairly when boarding the LRT.
Like that 'uncle' who appeared so nice and pleasant, until he treated others who were in front of him as though they're invisible. Like that young woman taking advantage of another woman older than herself, until the older woman put her hand across and sternly said "please queue up".
These 2 incidences were observed on 2 days - the 'uncle' case occured today at Bandaraya STAR station, while the 'young woman' case occured yesterday at Masjid Jamek PUTRA station. All happened in the evening when people were busy rushing home after work.
The LRT ride per se is stressful enough due to the people-packed factor. Inconsiderate folks who jump queues only make things worse. But for cost and traffic-jam factors, I wouldn't have bothered taking the LRT at all. The streets around Sogo are terribly congested every morning and evening (especially evening), and being highly unfamiliar with that area, I think it's not a brilliant idea to drive there myself.
So, I continued enslaving myself with having to take PUTRA, then switch to STAR. And seeing inconsiderate people who can't queue for no good reason.
No amount of status, work position, etc, can determine whether a person can or cannot queue. It's all about civics. One is either civic-minded, or otherwise.
What's the use of having 1st class facilities / infrastructure if folks still possess a no-class mentality? Some fella' can dress up damn smartly and even appear nice, but they're actually monsters when it comes to lining themselves up fairly when boarding the LRT.
Like that 'uncle' who appeared so nice and pleasant, until he treated others who were in front of him as though they're invisible. Like that young woman taking advantage of another woman older than herself, until the older woman put her hand across and sternly said "please queue up".
These 2 incidences were observed on 2 days - the 'uncle' case occured today at Bandaraya STAR station, while the 'young woman' case occured yesterday at Masjid Jamek PUTRA station. All happened in the evening when people were busy rushing home after work.
The LRT ride per se is stressful enough due to the people-packed factor. Inconsiderate folks who jump queues only make things worse. But for cost and traffic-jam factors, I wouldn't have bothered taking the LRT at all. The streets around Sogo are terribly congested every morning and evening (especially evening), and being highly unfamiliar with that area, I think it's not a brilliant idea to drive there myself.
So, I continued enslaving myself with having to take PUTRA, then switch to STAR. And seeing inconsiderate people who can't queue for no good reason.
No amount of status, work position, etc, can determine whether a person can or cannot queue. It's all about civics. One is either civic-minded, or otherwise.
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Good or bad?
Coincidentally
I thought I won't hear anything from them again coz it's been more than 2 months since I went for i********. I was pleasantly surprised by the call. Just a call to confirm my personal details and I'm already excited. If I get means how will my respond be?
At least it's not 0% chance. Not that I'll get, since the call was merely to ask about my CGPA (which I don't have, because my qualification is classified according to 2nd lower, 2nd upper, etc).
I say "coincidentally" because each time I was approached and thought of talking to someone about joining that business, I'd get a little twist in event.
I wonder if...
I thought I won't hear anything from them again coz it's been more than 2 months since I went for i********. I was pleasantly surprised by the call. Just a call to confirm my personal details and I'm already excited. If I get means how will my respond be?
At least it's not 0% chance. Not that I'll get, since the call was merely to ask about my CGPA (which I don't have, because my qualification is classified according to 2nd lower, 2nd upper, etc).
I say "coincidentally" because each time I was approached and thought of talking to someone about joining that business, I'd get a little twist in event.
I wonder if...
Thursday, May 14, 2009
Wind of Change
Transformation or what?
I feel different... more and more. Desiring more changes. First, I changed almost half of my wardrobe. Don't know why I feel like revealing more. Nothing sexy and nothing eye-rolling, only shorter sleeves, tighter and more fanciful outfits.
Then, I bought 2 pairs of 'cutesy' floral earrings to be disappointed they aren't practical to be worn on rough occasions. I cut my hair (again!) and wonder if the new look will stay in place after my next wash.
Hair Growth Myth
My hair did grow. Just that it's invisible until straightened. I didn't iron-straight my hair this time around, but only went for chemical treatment to smooth and relax them up. I want my hair to look straight, but not flat straight.
Many people commented that my hair don't grow. My hair growth is invisible because my hair is wavy. Whatever regrowth won't go down to make my hair look longer. Instead, they curve upwards and only upon straightening them, I suddenly saw that my hair has grown 2 inches longer.
Long is sexy, short is chic
At first, I felt 'sayang' to cut my hair. But after a second thought, I still wanted to cut my hair short. I've never really kept long hair all my life, and the longest being shoulder length. Don't know why, but I always think that I look older than my real age with longer hair.
I recall. With shorter hair, I'm frequently mistaken for being a student. I tend to prefer a less matured look. When my hair was longer (when I was a real student in my very early 20s), I was always mistaken for being a working adult. Call me vain, the short-hair business happened ever since I came back from my workplace Team Building. I saw my photos and was shocked at how much older I looked with longer hair. ;p
Most of my male friends prefer girls with long hair. I suppose long hair creates a very sexy look for girls... Perhaps, guys enjoy caressing a girl's smooth, long hair (not talking about erotic caressing here, but merely ordinary caresses between man and woman). Or maybe appearing more flirtatous with long hair, as you twist and twirl your hair.
Short hair, on the other hand, tends to be on the cute side. It doesn't mean that I don't want to age gracefully though, but what I want is to at most look like my real age.
Should I?
I've questioned myself many times. My housemate cum friend is finishing her studies soon, and will be returning to her homecountry. My roommate will leave next year. Both of these friends of mine are younger than me, but only a few years.
Maybe it's going to be odd to stay with someone, say almost a decade younger than me. My current place of dwelling is only a few doors from college, and I contemplate someone as young as that staying there.
Oddness is in terms of a few aspects. It's true that you don't have to necessarily mingle with your roommate. But it may not be nice on "my new roommate" if she has to be restricted in some sense. I've been a student before and I know how enjoyable was it to stay up very late to do assignments / revising. I don't 'sound' at people, it's just not my nature, but I don't want people to feel "forced" to switch off the light after midnight for instance, and I don't think it's nice if my 6.20 alarm wakes people up, esp when people just fell asleep. Once in a while is ok, but in a long run, it may be stressful.
Other than possibility of odd positions, and costly rental, I haven't got any nice ground to justify shifting away. Landlord is good, house is clean and feels like home, facilities are complete, laundry is taken care of and having Wi-Fi from other surrounding houses for me to 'curi'; what's there to complaint? After all, beautiful facilities are the result of beautiful price paid. Distance-wise, may be a little far from efficient public transportation, but is that a concern now, since I've unexpectedly got a car with me here?
Instead, if I were to move to a place near to LRT station, I may complaint about noise. I may no longer know what to do with or where to keep my car. Till then, we'll see when the time comes.
I feel different... more and more. Desiring more changes. First, I changed almost half of my wardrobe. Don't know why I feel like revealing more. Nothing sexy and nothing eye-rolling, only shorter sleeves, tighter and more fanciful outfits.
Then, I bought 2 pairs of 'cutesy' floral earrings to be disappointed they aren't practical to be worn on rough occasions. I cut my hair (again!) and wonder if the new look will stay in place after my next wash.
Hair Growth Myth
My hair did grow. Just that it's invisible until straightened. I didn't iron-straight my hair this time around, but only went for chemical treatment to smooth and relax them up. I want my hair to look straight, but not flat straight.
Many people commented that my hair don't grow. My hair growth is invisible because my hair is wavy. Whatever regrowth won't go down to make my hair look longer. Instead, they curve upwards and only upon straightening them, I suddenly saw that my hair has grown 2 inches longer.
Long is sexy, short is chic
At first, I felt 'sayang' to cut my hair. But after a second thought, I still wanted to cut my hair short. I've never really kept long hair all my life, and the longest being shoulder length. Don't know why, but I always think that I look older than my real age with longer hair.
I recall. With shorter hair, I'm frequently mistaken for being a student. I tend to prefer a less matured look. When my hair was longer (when I was a real student in my very early 20s), I was always mistaken for being a working adult. Call me vain, the short-hair business happened ever since I came back from my workplace Team Building. I saw my photos and was shocked at how much older I looked with longer hair. ;p
Most of my male friends prefer girls with long hair. I suppose long hair creates a very sexy look for girls... Perhaps, guys enjoy caressing a girl's smooth, long hair (not talking about erotic caressing here, but merely ordinary caresses between man and woman). Or maybe appearing more flirtatous with long hair, as you twist and twirl your hair.
Short hair, on the other hand, tends to be on the cute side. It doesn't mean that I don't want to age gracefully though, but what I want is to at most look like my real age.
Should I?
I've questioned myself many times. My housemate cum friend is finishing her studies soon, and will be returning to her homecountry. My roommate will leave next year. Both of these friends of mine are younger than me, but only a few years.
Maybe it's going to be odd to stay with someone, say almost a decade younger than me. My current place of dwelling is only a few doors from college, and I contemplate someone as young as that staying there.
Oddness is in terms of a few aspects. It's true that you don't have to necessarily mingle with your roommate. But it may not be nice on "my new roommate" if she has to be restricted in some sense. I've been a student before and I know how enjoyable was it to stay up very late to do assignments / revising. I don't 'sound' at people, it's just not my nature, but I don't want people to feel "forced" to switch off the light after midnight for instance, and I don't think it's nice if my 6.20 alarm wakes people up, esp when people just fell asleep. Once in a while is ok, but in a long run, it may be stressful.
Other than possibility of odd positions, and costly rental, I haven't got any nice ground to justify shifting away. Landlord is good, house is clean and feels like home, facilities are complete, laundry is taken care of and having Wi-Fi from other surrounding houses for me to 'curi'; what's there to complaint? After all, beautiful facilities are the result of beautiful price paid. Distance-wise, may be a little far from efficient public transportation, but is that a concern now, since I've unexpectedly got a car with me here?
Instead, if I were to move to a place near to LRT station, I may complaint about noise. I may no longer know what to do with or where to keep my car. Till then, we'll see when the time comes.
Friday, April 24, 2009
On the Road
I was driving past SS2 when I was stuck in a traffic congestion in the evening. Cars not moving although the light was green. So happened that it was right in front of a row of bridal houses.
Peeping though the glass panels of one of the houses, I saw a lady dressed up in white bridal gown. Must be selecting gowns, I guess. She turned, flipped, etc, accompanied by a few others who's pointing to a few angles. Wow, I was seeing it so clearly.
Despite not knowing who the 'dressed-in-bridal-gown' is, I felt happy for her. I was thinking, 'congrats, and good luck...'. Of course, I realise that marriage is not simply any business, i.e. it's not say wed means wed.
"Jauh panggang dari api". I have no business thinking how is marriage like at this moment, since it's something far ahead. Don't want... don't want...
Peeping though the glass panels of one of the houses, I saw a lady dressed up in white bridal gown. Must be selecting gowns, I guess. She turned, flipped, etc, accompanied by a few others who's pointing to a few angles. Wow, I was seeing it so clearly.
Despite not knowing who the 'dressed-in-bridal-gown' is, I felt happy for her. I was thinking, 'congrats, and good luck...'. Of course, I realise that marriage is not simply any business, i.e. it's not say wed means wed.
"Jauh panggang dari api". I have no business thinking how is marriage like at this moment, since it's something far ahead. Don't want... don't want...
Friday, April 17, 2009
Lunch at Assam House, Ipoh
Assam House has a variety from its menus to choose from. The food is very reasonably-priced, considering the comfortable, nice, clean and air-conditioned surroundings. The staff are efficient, polite and friendly.
One of the most popular dishes is asam-pedas. The boss cum founder of the restaurant is a Nyonya from Melaka, who's married to a gentleman from Ipoh. If I'm not mistaken, the boss must be past middle age now. Anyway, that's what I heard and read (therefore, this note is only a secondary source). ;)
The restaurant that I usually go to is in Greentown.
Below are one of the latest random lunch sets:
Fish fillet asam curry... A great pacifier to spicy food craves (I can't wait to go for another one as soon as possible).
Sambal belacan stir-fried sayur paku...
Seaweed soup with egg and mixed vegetables...
The 3 dishes were randomly selected from the list of menu for lunch set. Together with rice and drinks too, everything came up to only around RM 3+.++ for two.
One of the most popular dishes is asam-pedas. The boss cum founder of the restaurant is a Nyonya from Melaka, who's married to a gentleman from Ipoh. If I'm not mistaken, the boss must be past middle age now. Anyway, that's what I heard and read (therefore, this note is only a secondary source). ;)
The restaurant that I usually go to is in Greentown.
Below are one of the latest random lunch sets:
Fish fillet asam curry... A great pacifier to spicy food craves (I can't wait to go for another one as soon as possible).
Sambal belacan stir-fried sayur paku...
Seaweed soup with egg and mixed vegetables...
The 3 dishes were randomly selected from the list of menu for lunch set. Together with rice and drinks too, everything came up to only around RM 3+.++ for two.
Sunday, April 12, 2009
Mishmash of Randomness
1. Travel to Ipoh!
The beautiful Ipoh KTM railway station is back in life once more, after a seemingly long lay off. Thanks to the KL-Ipoh Shuttle service that provides 5 trips per day between the two cities. I swear that with this convenient service, I won't bother taking the bus anymore. Yay!!! No more crowded and smoky Puduraya. No more traffic jam. No more travel sickness.
1.1 Speaking of which...
Talking about travel sickness, it's highly unlikely to feel sick in the train. I'm totally happy that the air-conditioner of trains cannot be adjusted by passengers. I'm usually okay with travelling, except when it feels hot in the bus, which makes me feel unwell. Unfortunately, a number of bus passengers like to close up the air-con outlet above their seats, thus making the journey hot and suffocating.
Once, I felt like puking in the bus. The air-con was not cold, and I've had a hearty meal. Partly was my fault coz who asked me to eat so much. I was seated beside a seemingly bitchy woman (from the way she talked to someone over her phone, she sounded fussy and domineering).
Just in case if it happens, I had prepared to be an actress and lie about being... "pregnant", with the "hope" that she'd be more symphatising and won't "membebel" if I puke beside her. Lame, I know. But my ego was so high at that time and I didn't want to be screamed by anyone. Otherwise, I won't bother acting!
But luckily I didn't throw up and thus, I was saved from the need to act like a preggie when I'm not even married (means also need to pretend like married?). TOUCHWOOD.
Sorry for going so off-track... Anyway, like the rest of many folks, I'm glad to see an improvement in the transportation system. The KTM electric trains are scheduled to be available from KL to Ipoh, maybe next year or the year after. I usually travel once (carpool together with my cousin), or sometimes twice (by KTM) in a month to Ipoh nowadays. Not a typical homesick person like when I first went to college.
2. I don't like to play chess, but nevertheless still excited by this glass chess set gift. I've recently re-arranged my desk at home nicely, and have decorated my desk with this glass chess set. A student no-more, I can see how my desk becoming clearer and free from trash now.
3. Kokeshi doll By Paul -可愛いです ね?! I love it very much... many thanks!
4. Don't 'play-play'...
My car number. Winning Special prize in Magnum 4 months after registration. Not bad, despite it's lack of many fancy "8's" By the way, I don't "buy" numbers.
5. Conclusion
Guess I must be excited with a new blog. :)
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