Friday, June 20, 2008

Bangkok 16-19 June 2008

Day 1




Day 2



Day 3



Went for a shopping trip for 4 days 3 nights with my colleagues: Esther, Amanda and Sharon with Nicholas (Esther's hubby) and Daniel (Amanda's bf). Managed to get lotsa stuff and we were commenting that we didn't have enough time cos we just got our "engines" started then we have to leave to come home already...haha...Highlight was the international buffet at Baiyoke Sky Hotel (tallest building in Bangkok)...Places we went: Platinum Mall, Pratunam, Siam Square, famous thai temple (near siam paragon), Little Siam, MBK and Suan Lum Night Market.

Sunday, June 15, 2008

Father's Day

To all fathers reading this post: Happy Father's Day!

Gave Dad a card holder so that he can keep his business contacts. Giving Dad a dinner treat tonight as well.
Coincidentally, sis also wrote 祝 身体健康 事事顺利 in her message!

Saturday, June 14, 2008

Sat day out

Met Karel and his A*star friends at Vivocity's Kopitiam as they've just finished their morning walk and were getting lunch there. Went to Daiso to get the face mask sis always use then walked around vivocity looking for a bracelet as a graduation gift for Karel's sis and found it in Mintmark.Co. Went around looking for a trekking bag but didn't managed to find a suitable one. Got another disney gashapon and a jap choc gashapon from Toys R Us before heading to Marche for drinks. Forgot to bring the complimentary coffee card so ordered the chocochinno.
Headed for Plaza Singapura so that he can find his trekking bag while it's almost time for my piano lesson. Arranged to meet Jimmy after my lesson briefly as I wanted to get the 2GB SD card from him. Since it was secondhand and I didn't check out the price in the PC show, he actually sold it to me at $10! What a steal...
Decided to head to Changi Airport with Karel as he has gotten his trekking bag and wanted to accompany him while he got his dinner. Brought him to the staff canteen at T2 and ordered the satay. He didn't really take to the taste of the satay sold here, probably cos of the fats...went to the viewing gallery to talk and realised that the airport was a place that I like to go perhaps it's the feeling of space and somewhere I felt peaceful. Didn't think of it till Karel brought it up that I've suggested going to the airport a few times, initially he thought it's like my subconcious mind saying that I want to leave the country which I don't think so. I love staying here, just that I would love the chance to travel more. Perhaps I should start saving up and when I can quit my job and not worry about finances, I will travel around the world. =D

Friday, June 13, 2008

Final tap practice

Went back to school for cca today. As it's the hols and constructions are being done in school so there were very few people around. Had a hard time trying to locate the air-con control but luckily Roslind was around to help. Feel quite bad that the elderly cleaners had to do hard labour but couldn't help them.
Told Phil that this might be the final tap practice I'm with them because when the new semester begins, my cca would be changed to choir. Will definitely miss them as bonds have been made but it's not really up to me. A pity that in this 1.5 years, I didn't really pick up any tap moves frm the practices as normally when I join them for the cca, am too tired after class. I was more preoccupied with maintaining discipline and noting the attendance.
When the session ended at 2pm, we decided to walk over to Rivervale Plaza for lunch. On our way there, we saw a really frail old lady sitting on the side of the road. It was worrying as she didn't seem to realise how dangerous it was and apparently, she was trying to get a cab. Though we have walked past her, felt uneasy that no one is helping her so we headed back to see if we could help.
She didn't have clear vision, was hard of hearing and was too weak to stand on her own. Kept waving out to vehicles thinking that they were cabs. Even when we helped her to stand up, she was trembling terribly. Was so worried that she will fall or knocked down by a vehicle as she was moving so slowly.
She wanted to go to somewhere in Punggol but could only converse in teochew. In my broken teochew, tried to help her find a cab. The first cab driver didn't understand where she wanted to go and advice us to bring her home or call for the police as she might be lost. Phil raised a gd point if police were called, the old lady might have a bad experience. The funny thing was when the lady comprehended that the first cab driver didn't want to bring her to her destination, she kept saying "yi dao" (he's proud) and that normally when she tells cab driver, they know where it is and will bring her. Caught sight of a lanyard she wore around her neck with her photocopied IC. Only saw a handwritten block which was just behind us and couldn't get her to show us the actual address as she was very protective of her things. Wanted to bring her home but she was very persistent to get a cab.
The second cab driver who was changing shift at punggol didn't even have the patience to wait for us to bring the lady to his cab. Just drove off while the next cab driver who stopped, was an indian and used the excuse that he couldn't communicate with the old lady so didn't want to take her. A kind auntie who walked past tried to help convince the old lady to go home. I felt that the old lady realised the auntie is someone who couldn't help her get a cab, as she actually hand-signed that she can't hear what the auntie was saying...
Really felt very lost cos can't just leave her there and there's no way we could find help from the old lady's family. Finally, a kind cab driver stopped by and using his magnifying glass, managed to figure out the address on the old lady's photocopied IC. Felt a sense of relief that a cab driver was willing to bring her there and the old lady finally got what she wanted. As we sent her off, Phil told the kids that next time when they grow up and have old people at home to really take care of them. Feel so sad for the old lady...I wonder if she has kids of her own...
Had our lunch at koufu only around 3+pm and spent a gd time chatting with Phil before going home to start packing my luggage.

Thursday, June 12, 2008

Bangkok preview



Promised to bring sis to shokudo for a meal someday and since we're both free today, it's sisters' day out! Found a corner near to the cashier with nice manga wallpaper...nice photo corner which sent our hp and camera into a clicking frenzy...=P
Went to Bugis st to check out tangerine tofu so that the $5 voucher could be used as it's expiring soon. Saw 2 nice blouse going for $40 but were hesitant to get cos they were discounted items which means we can't use the voucher. Upon reaching Bugis st, saw a pair of white shoes that was quite comfortable going for $10. Since both sis and I could wear it, we bought it. Walked around and I tried on several shorts but was quite demoralized as the sizes are generally smaller or my body shape wasn't suitable.
Went to the second level and finally found a black, pants material shorts that fitted well and was on discount ($19.90). The bistro had changed to a hong kong cafe. Shared the mango dessert with sis. Finally ate mango ice-cream cos was avoiding ice-cream for at least 4 months. Bought another purple blouse as I could wear it to work ($15) and finally headed back to tangerine tofu as sis wanted to get the 2 tops and I found a comfortable tee going for $10 which I can use the $5 voucher. Finally before we left the area, caught sight of a rather unique watch and since sis wanted to get one, we bought it for only $5. Felt really tired out on the bus but it was a really fruitful shopping trip. Can't wait for the action to begin when I fly to Bangkok!

Wednesday, June 11, 2008

Eclectic Attic

Met Brother Dave at Plaza Singapura to catch up before I leave for Bangkok on Monday. Went to Eclectic Attic and tried the tea set where 6 types of miniature cakes were served with tea. Nice talking to him and really appreciate the advices and encouragement he gave. Feel very happy that he's moving on to the next stage with his gf soon. Touched that someone who dislikes shopping is making the effort to look for the perfect ring.

Went to Vivocity to meet Karel for dinner (first "official" date). Had to walk around first as he's still at work and needs to travel. Was quite agonizing as there were alot of nice clothes but as I was about to try them out, the thought of the Bangkok shopping trip stopped me in my tracks. In the end, only went to the gashapon machines at Toys R Us and couldn't resist the cute disney babies round biscuit accessory. We went back to White Dog Cafe for a nice, relaxing dinner. Managed to get home earlier cos didn't want to stay out late.

Saturday, June 07, 2008

Ray and Yifen's wedding!!!


Waiting for make-up artist

The beautiful bride with her bridesmaids

Finally the day has arrived for one of my best friends to get married! Feel elated for her as really think hao ma has found hao pa...=P They are really right for each other and since we've known each other since our NIE/NTU days, Yifen asked me sometime earlier this year to be help on her wedding day. Had a wedding briefing at her new house in Punggol last Saturday, realised that Wanjun and myself are actually her bridesmaids. The couple decided to keep the wedding affair a rather private celebration with relatives and close friends so have booked a function room at Hilton Hotel and will have a buffet reception instead of the conventional chinese banquet. Feel so excited as it's the first time I'm a bridesmaid and really honored to be able to share this special occasion with the couple...=D

Arranged to meet Wanjun early in the morning on this significant day and we took a cab down to the hotel as we were already dressed for the occasion and it was drizzling. Reached there really early, by 815am and decided to go to Forum's coffeebean to catch up and have a drink before the excitement begins at 9am. Met the couple and the wedding helpers at level 24, function room and mingled around as we prepared for a final rehearsal for the processional.

The make-up artist, Vivi arrived around 930am and we proceeded to the executive suite to get ready. Yifen's 4 nieces were the flower girls and the youngest, Edna got excited once she's changed to her nice dress. She kept smiling, jumping around and even started singing...so adorable!!! Yifen's mum looked really good after the make-up. Started pouring rather heavily as Yifen was having her make-up done but reassured her that since it's raining now, later in the afternoon as we proceed outdoors for photoshoot, the rain may have stopped. The make-up enhanced Yifen's natural beauty and she turned out looking slightly different (checked out the photos). Even the groom had his first make-up put on for this special day! =D

Due to the rain, the guests arrived slightly later and we waited in the suite till 1220pm before standing by for the processional. The page boy and the youngest flower girl was a little taken aback by the dry ice smoke as the door opened for the processional to begin. Think I had a rather stiff smile due to nervousness. >_<
Sabo time...;P

Somehow, the relative who was suppose to help with the tea ceremony didn't come forth and Ray even went to approach one of his best men. Upon realising that it's customary for females to do this, I volunteered as can sensed they were pressed for time. Totally lost as to what to do, so basically followed the instructions of one of the relatives. Prepared 4 cups of tea on a tray for the couple to serve their elders (each elder to drink from 2 cups offered by the newly weds) and changed the tea for each pair of elders. As the hotel personnel helping to change the tea was at the reception table and there was a short distance from where the guests were seated (couch at the lift landing), had to hurry back and forth ensuring that I don't knocked over anyone. The guy's relatives were served tea first, followed by the female side. However, as Yifen's relatives came forth to be served, one of her aunts came to inform me that it's wrong to serve 4 cups of tea. 2 cups would be enough and the newly-weds were supposed to hold the tray and let the elders leave the red packets on the tray for them instead of passing the red packets directly to them. Briefly told the couple the change of format and after some time, the whole tea ceremony was over. Could finally take a breather before sending the guests off and head back to the suite for Yifen to change and get ready for the outdoor photoshoot.

Wanjun came back and as the ladies got changed, there was a minor accident with the gown, Yifen's niece apparently knocked Yifen while she was drinking milo and splattered some of the drink on the white gown. Quickly used wet tissue and cloth to rub the stain off. Luckily Yifen's mum got most of the stain off.

In prayer...
My prince will come

Princess and Prince {so romantic!!!} =)
Yifen and me

Made arrangements with the photographer to go to 3 places to have the photoshoots. Luckily the heavy downpour has reduced to a slight drizzle by 3+pm as we left the hotel. There were 2 other cars following the bridal car to the photo-taking sites. Followed Huiqing, Charmain and Jeremy in Keith's car. First stop was Singapore Art Musuem so we parked at SMU's admin building car park. Another couple was also there for their wedding shots. Couldn't enter the musuem for wedding photos which was a slight pity and could only used the front porch and corridors. Took some candid shots with my digicam and was really glad that some of the shots turned out really nice!




Next location was Esplanade and we took more shots on the rooftop garden. Really liked the pose where bride and groom had to sit down on the carpet grass. Very romantic! Took a group photo here before we head to the last stop at Millenia Walk.


Looking at his beautiful wife...
Artistic romantic shot!

Hao Ma & Hao Pa

Wanjun & me making ripples

Walked over to the "waterfall" and since it was my first time going there, realised that the area is really nice for capturing of artistic shots since there's water feature and the pillars had nice tiles that can serve as a background. Had quite alot of funny shots taken over here (including another group shot) before we ended around 7+pm. Headed back to the hotel to collect our stuff before leaving for dinner with Wanjun at Burger King by 830pm. Totally shagged...didn't expect it could be so tiring but everything was worth it...Home sweet home by 10+pm.

Thursday, June 05, 2008

Karel's birthday


 
Look at the amazing spread! Piping hot Tokyo-style clam chowder soup, sashimi, bamboo unagi rice, rosti, the list goes on......
Met Karel to have dinner at Shokudo before going to Esplanade for the Lord Of the Rings Symphony and Choral Performance. Enjoyed dinner thoroughly, tried the bamboo unagi rice and it's really nice! The sashimi could be better while the beef with asparagus roll was really tasty.
Walked over to Esplanade after dinner and as we were about to enter the hall, met my school's science lab assistant. Heard that she would be working part-time as usher on these 2 nights and just greeted each other briefly. A group of primary students with their teachers were seated near our seats and realised that one of the girls was in the same place as indicated on my ticket. My ever-helpful science lab assistant came over when she realised that there were some problems and told us to look for another usher-in-charge. Karel was sharp enough to spot the problem. The sistic personnel sold us the wrong tickets! We specifically asked for 5 June but were given 6 June tickets. We didn't check, nor did the personnels tearing our ticket as we entered the hall. Amanda, the in-charge who attended to us was really apologetic about the whole incident. She told us it was full house tonight and the only option was for us to come back tomorrow evening. Karel was quite upset cos it's his birthday and this has to happen. He insisted that they try to do something abt it. Luckily for his persistence, or it would have been a wasted trip and a great disappointment.
After a few minutes, Amanda decided to make an exception to let us watch from the viewing room as she could sensed that we were not willing to make another trip. There was a couch and the view was actually similar to that of circle 2. The only minus point was that we could only hear the whole thing from a single speaker. The viewing room was a holding room for late comers as later 2 other couples joined us. It wasn't really comfortable as the couch had no back rest but at least we got to watch the show. Noted there were quite a number of empty seats though they claimed that it was full house. Intermission came and we managed to speak to Amanda as she promised to check if there's any available seats for us to move to for the later part of the show. Luckily, we were arranged to sit in Circle 2 BB 53 and 54 and could enjoy the rest of the show comfortably. The choir was amazing and really thought that the orchestra was awesome. Left the concert hall feeling really glad that we've came. Since it was only 10pm and it's Karel's birthday, decided to top the birthday treat with a visit to Max Brenner's Cafe. Karel enjoyed the white chocolate granitte while I ordered the dark chocolate. Took the train home ard 1115pm. What an eventful evening!

Tuesday, June 03, 2008

Gym with kakis

Met my thai trip kakis for gym early this morning...the consultant took some time and we were a little late for the 920am Street 101 dance class. Found out that with lack of practice, I've got coordination problems as the moves and music were pretty up tempo...haha, must have been quite a funny sight. Amanda and Sharon went for Bodylicious class while Esther and I attended the Bodycombat class. The intense workout left me looking quite flushed and can feel that my muscles are beginning to ache...
Went for lunch at Subway, tried the minisub roast beef with spring onion sauce. It tasted quite nice and more importantly healthy. The size is just nice for me to finish cos the normal 6-inch is too big. Went for eyebrow threading at Browhaus Paragon before window-shopping at Far East. Managed to restrain myself from buying anything cos planning to spend only when in Bangkok...just walking around to check out the current trend. Had drinks at Yakun before heading to Seng Kang Library with Sharon cos she intends to borrow books. Figured can try looking for thai-english phrase book, did managed to find one and also found "Blink" with 2 other "小豆豆" series novels. Will be able to sleep very soundly tonight due to the workout. Hope tomorrow the muscle aches won't be too dreadful...

Monday, June 02, 2008

Leisurely Sunday

Met Karel for lunch and to spend the day together. Went to Shokudo Japanese Food Bazaar located B1 of Raffles City...really like the place as the food is fabulous, nice ambience and there's so much to choose from! There's japanese and western food, order charged to card, payment at the cashier, similar to Marche. Missed out on the sushi photos cos was too tempted by it to start eating...=D
Japanese style Bacon & Cheese Omelette...yummier than expected...

Gyoza, shitake mushroom, yakitori and beef + veg skewers Dango Fizzy fruit drinks...prefer the peach flavored instead of the strawberry.

Walked over to Asian Civilisation Musuem, he had to guide me as i wasn't really sure of the way, just a rough idea of the direction..so ironical, having a foreignor guiding a local...;P
Popped by at the Arts House and caught a mini exhibition on pop art. Couldn't resist taking a few shots with these local brands made into household stuff...=D

I love white rabbit sweets...(Seated on Jacobs biscuits couch, surrounded by Maggi mee cushions and Dynamo lamps!)

Take a break...
ACM had the Vietnam special exhibitions amongst other exhibits and entry was free for today. Spent quite a long time touring the different galleries, sitting down finally as we heard there was story-telling of Vietnam fables. After the story-telling session, there was a traditional vietnam band performing folk music and also playing traditional vietnam instruments. Totally amazed by the main guy who could use a common leaf like a flute, plays a flute with no holes for different notes (controls the pitch by hand movements closing the ends of the flute, could even play with 2 such flutes at the same time!) and finally using 10 different stones as a xylophone...
Bought 2 dragonflies as it could balance on just the tip of it's nose before walking over to Makansutra's Gluttons Bay to have our dinner. Tried the famous satay and also hokkien mee...very tasty just a bit pricey cos of the location. Went to Marina Square to get tickets for 《Prince Caspian》. The movie would only start at 850pm so we had time to get a drink at Starbucks. Tried the hot chocolate and it's not too sweet...nice for cold weather...The movie lasted 2.5 hrs and some scenes reminded me quite abit abt LOTR. The main lead, Prince Caspian's looks good and has the charm. Shared a cab home and conked out by 140am...

One of my fave food...tasty but can't take too often!!!

Friday, May 30, 2008

人心险恶 Life lesson

Chanced to browse 联合早报,found out abt a previous practicum school teacher winning award so decided to send my sincere well-wishes. Replied with thanks and that it's sweet of me to sms. Later at night, received an sms which I believe I shouldn't be in the recipients' list as the message is as follows: "I cant believe my eyes. I actually received a well wishing sms frm (my full name). I thought she hates everyone from (practicum sch's name). Just sharing, no..."{sms truncated}
Really don't understand why a well-intentioned gesture could be thwarted by others. To think I was the one who didn't want to bring up the past unhappiness. Guess even as one have moved on, others might not have done so...real weird and makes me feel disappointed in some people. Trust and friendship is so worthless for some people now. Quite tempted to reply the sms with "I cant believe my eyes. I bear no grudges yet that's the way others view me."

Thursday, May 29, 2008

Haunting image

Was on the escalator of citylink leading to suntec city this morning for teachers' conference when i encountered one of my life's worst moments...
Became curious when I noticed something grey at the right end of the escalator. Was thinking: " Probably a cleaner's rag or some unwanted garment left by somebody", kept looking at it and was thinking of confirming my thoughts as I got closer. However, to my horror, when I was just inches away from it, I recognise the form as that of a dead rat. The moment the thought hit me, I was grossed out cos I saw that the head was missing and there were traces of blood at the middle edge of the escalator. It's like arriving at a crime scene and witnessing the gruesome end. What a sorry end for the poor rat! Poor cleaner too, have to tidy up this mess...
Somehow, think the 2 ladies walking in front of me or those walking behind me, didn't notice it cos they didn't seem affected. Luckily I'm not the screaming sort, just felt very disturbed by the sight and till now, im still haunted by it...>_<

Monday, May 26, 2008

Gals' noon out

Joined Esther, Sharon and Amanda to Hougang Plaza after work today. Went to Watsons to get some necessities for our thailand trip. Tried the dessert place and the herbal jelly is quite nice. Met Mr Kwok, Aunty Yvonne and Florence there. Planning for next outing soon...

Sunday, May 25, 2008

Pathway of success

Out of curiosity, decided to check my weight today. Have been putting it off for sometime as I know since last year I've ballooned quite abit and it really takes courage to face such grim facts...Coupled with busy work schedules and lack of exercise, the weight loss of 6kg over 4.5 months came as a pleasant surprise. This must be due to the fact that my lunch options are greatly reduced. Sticking to vegetarian food and avoiding drinking too much milk tea in school must have helped. Avoiding fried and fast food are also contributing factors. I will persevere to achieve balanced and healthy lifestyle till I'm back in my JC days' shape. =P

Saturday, May 24, 2008

Long-awaited...

Finally, our mid-year hols are here! Though still have to return to school next week but decided to join my colleagues for dinner and take a break frm it all. Went to Long John Silvers at Rivervale Plaza with Hatta, Raizal, Diana, Sharon Wee, Esther, Sharon Woo & Amanda.
Had a gd time chatting and ard 7pm, the 4 of us (bangkok trip kakis) decided to go to Bugis Village to walk ard. Checked out Tangerine Tofu but didn't find anything I like. Turned into one of the smaller lanes and discovered fish spa. We decided to experience this together and it was actually quite a nice experience as long as you're not the ticklish type. The amazing thing is that after soaking our feet for abt half an hour, you don't get the wrinkled skin effect. Plus, the exfoliation of dead skin also made our feet really smooth. Sharon was really tempted by the eyelash extension and after doing it, she now looks really "exotic" (Amanda's first response).
Went for more chatting and supper at The Prata House at Serangoon road till quite late. Had a great time with the ladies, looking forward to our trip, can start counting down! =D

Saturday, May 17, 2008

CSC MRT trail



Been so caught up with work that I've not been updating my blog. Took part in the Public Service MRT Trail with my colleagues (Mdm Hafsah, Mei Mei and Sharifah) today. Reported at CSC at Bukit Batok early in the morning. Met Jemina and a OBS female friend there. We were supposed to communicate with our clue communicator (Mdm Hafsah-stationed at CSC) only through SMS and MMS. We were given clues to locate our stations, take a photo of a landmark and send the MMS to our clue communicator before we get clues for the next stop. At some stations, there will be game officials to take note of our team number (54).

The first stop was CREATIVE (Jurong East), next up was Clementi and we had to locate a beach volleyball court in the housing estate. It wasn't easy as we had to walk quite a distance from the MRT stations under the sweltering heat. We had to move on to a station with Blue linery, Alexandra canal linear park at Queenstown station and locate a dragon made of rope. We took a wrong right turn and got lost for 30min. Finally when we located the "dragon", Sharifah gamely went through the obstacle as it's required and took a photo with the official to send back to get our next clue. The next station was Redhill (station with red linery) where the clue was for us to locate a car hanging on a wall. It's original model was an icon in the 1960s. Thought of the volkswagon mini almost immediately and upon confirmation with another colleague, we quickly moved on. While on the train, I caught sight of the the showroom with the mini outside the wall, hence quickly sms Mdm Hafsah if we could take the photo frm the train instead of walking there. Took the risk and we managed to clear and move on, making up for the lost time and also conserving some energy cos the showroom is quite a distance frm the station. Next was to walk to a park named after a city in China which used to be a granite quarry. We had to take a picture of a semi-circle concrete shelter with 2 team members before we can head back to the CSC. We know that the answer is Little Guilin and we only had abt 40min to spare so it was a rush for the last mms and back to report. We managed to reach CSC just 15min before 1pm (reporting time) and our position was 62 out of 96 teams.

After this fun workout, decided to give ourselves a treat and had lunch at West Mall's Swensons. Realised that my stamina is at all time low, need to start gyming again as June hols approaches.

Sunday, May 11, 2008

Cousin's wedding

Attended my cousin's wedding and it's the first time I'm attending the church and solemnization ceremony. The location was Singapore Art Musuem and the decor was really nice. Had a good time catching up with my other cousins. Feel so happy for the newly weds.
The wedding dinner at Sheraton was also very nice. It was quite a unique wedding as there was the SAF march-in, a live band allowing song dedications, the bride's sister performing a song with her friends for the newly weds, a dance and song item by their church friends, a mini game for the single friends by the MCs, a video of the wedding preparation (sat) and a touching speech with bouquets the newly weds prepared for their mothers on Mothers' Day.

Wednesday, April 09, 2008

Been awhile...

Too busy to come here to share what's happening...so much to do so little time, I'm officially promoted to executive level of the "Singapore Panda Club"...slept as little as 3 hrs only last night as I was trying to come up with the P4 revision worksheet.

Feel so inefficient...it's like even if I report early to work or stay back in school, it seems like I'm unable to complete marking. I even bring work home to complete and seriously, 24hrs is not enough...

Monday, March 24, 2008

Marché Vivocity

Met Karel after work for dinner at Vivocity. Reached there earlier so decided to take a look around. Went to Mango but didn't find anything interesting. Popped by La Senza next and got 2 for $45. Spotted Growing Fun beside Burger King and found finger puppets that were quite adorable. Bought the Gingerbread story for $9.90 (5 finger puppets with story).

Decided to go to Marché to wait for him as my heavy bag and tired legs were getting to me. It's my first time going to this outlet. Used to go to the Heeren outlet but that has now become V'llage. Really liked the decor in this Vivocity restaurant. It reminds me of very traditional European country-style decor and has a nice ambience. Got the original rosti and tried the Chocochino (Chocolate and espresso hot beverage). The drink was really nice and decided to get dessert. Tried the mango soufflé which was fantastic. Think sis would love it. Will definitely visit the restaurant again.

Sunday, March 23, 2008

Out with Bro Dave

Woke up early to do my weekly plan. Was pretty efficient and managed to get it done fairly quickly. Think I was focused enough. Managed to contact Bro Dave and arranged to meet up mid-afternoon as both of us intend to purchase stuff at Sim Lim. Met him at Suntec and walked to Sim Lim (took abt 20min). Along the way, saw some wholesale party shops and got some stationery items. Intended to get the notebooks for my students' journal writing but didn't managed to find suitable ones. Will probably head back to school to get the plain pages jotter book and get the kids to design whatever they want for the cover.

I was looking for compact portable speakers for my mp3 while Dave was looking for digital recorder. Managed to find Targus at PA Mart going for a good price so decided to get that as it's quite a good brand instead of Creative's which costs slightly higher for a similar product. Dave also got his Olympus digital recorder after we searched abit for the correct shop. I also bought Imation CD-Rs.

Walked back to Bugis Street and stopped at the corner coffeeshop so I can get my dinner before heading home. Tried the roast duck guo tiao ($3) and it tastes quite good. We managed to get a photo near the colorful spiral staircase. Will post it here soon. Took 133 back to AMK and slept abit on the bus cos I was too tired. Reached home quite early but could only pack my bag for school tmr and check my emails as I was too tired.

Saturday, March 22, 2008

AJC 30/00 2008 first gathering

Decided to contact my ajc pals and have a dinner gathering on Saturday evening. Managed to inform most of them. Unfortunately, Jo and Gloria weren't able to turn up while Yiting, Yi Pheng, Michelle, Audrey, Charity and Yahti couldn't make it in the end.

I was punctual as usual and sat rather foolishly at the long table reserved for 12 (thanks to Charm) till Ridzal came. Densen was next to arrive, followed by Peishi, Charm, Guolong, Harold and Tza. Had a nice time enjoying our food and catching up on what everyone is doing. We left around 10pm and only Ridz, Harold, Guolong and Charm along with myself could carry on to hang out longer at Coffeebean at Millenia Walk. Fortunately, Harold was kind enough to offer me a ride home, since I live rather near to him (Kovan), which I didn't know till today. Had a nice time chatting on the journey home too. Would post the photos of our gathering up here soon.

Decided to start a yahoogroup for our class so that we can keep each other updated and also organise future gatherings. =)

Friday, March 21, 2008

Sentosa picnic and Sis' birthday

Met Karel at Vivocity to get our picnic stuff from Giant and Daiso. Along the way, checked out forever21, Bodyshop, Faceshop, Diva and PageOne before getting our things ready and queuing for our Sentosa Express tickets.

It's the first time I took the Sentosa Express and think cos it's a public holiday and there's lotsa tourists, we had to queue for some time before we managed to buy our tickets ($3 inclusive of entrance fee) and enter Sentosa. Felt that the Express is better than our airport sky train. It's similar to our LRTs. Took 7 minutes to reach the Beach station and went to queue up for the beach tram to get to Tanjong Beach. The sweltering heat didn't help much but make our waiting for the tram more miserable. Upon alighting at Tanjong Beach stop, could see that the furthest beach is a fave amongst dog lovers as they bring their pets to the beach to play and mingle with other owners or their friends. We managed to find a hut and was properly sheltered from the sun so we can enjoy our picnic lunch. Enjoyed the walnut cheese on bread and also the cranberry juice from Minute Maid. Sat there to chat and only left when we sensed that a storm might be coming as dark clouds were starting to gather and could hear the occasional thunder.

Went back to Vivocity to avoid getting caught in the rain. Went to Garden of Posies and got some drinks and food. Like the ambience of the place and the food is quite nice as well. The ice-blended floral tea were interesting and refreshing. However, it's basically iced floral tea instead of ice-blended. =P Found a cute birthday card with a small soft toy sheep and Karel decided to get it for sis' birthday gift which was sweet of him to do so.

Went to queue for a cab to go to Yoyogi at Mohd Sultan for the family dinner to celebrate sis' birthday. It's the first time in my life that I'm in such a long taxi queue. Think there were like almost 50 people in front of me and I waited like 15 min to get my cab though there were plenty of cabs waiting in line. It's quite silly to only allow passengers to board at the front of the queue instead of just having the passengers get into the cabs in queue. Perhaps it's for order and safety reasons. The journey was quite short, abt 15min and I was there earlier. Could look through the menu and see what they have to offer. Dad ordered sashimi, sushi, chawanmushi, cold tofu, agadeshi tofu, yakiniku udon. He also ate a ume 饭团. Felt so contented and full when we were done. = )

Had the birthday cake once we got home cos grandparents tend to sleep early. It was quite amusing as the candles were burning out fast and we had to rush through the photo-taking and I was the only one who sang the birthday song for sis quickly. She was told to blow out the candles and in a hurry she forgot to make her wish before she blew them out. Hahahaha...super cartoon...the cake was from Fourleaves so it was really tasty and not too sweet. (",)

Sunday, March 16, 2008

Power packed March hols

Just a quick overview of how my March 1 week hols went:

Mon: Workshop about P1, P2 New curriculum at Teachers' Network. (830am-530pm)
Met Karel at the Cathay for dinner and movie "The Leap Years", chatted and had a drink at Starbucks before walking down to Esplanade.

Tue: Workshop about P3, P4 New curriculum at Teachers' Network. (830am-530pm)
Met Andy to catch movie "10,000 B.C." at Marina Square.

Wed: Met sis at Bugis to have lunch at Ma Maison and shopping at Bugis Street (2-6pm)

Thu: Back to school for CCA Tapdance SYF training. Checked out Cityhall for Yifen's wedding bridesmaid dress but quite pricey and not really what I wanted. Met Josh for supper and chat at Jalan Kayu.

Fri: Met Jiahui to have lunch and shop at Orchard. Managed to get a Daniel Yam gown from Tangs at a greatly discounted price. Green Sanctuary treatment at Paragon (230pm-4pm). Met Guoyong at Orchard for dinner.


Sat: Met Philemon (Tapdance instructor) at Tampines to go to Mona Reflexology shop to try out the foot massage. Went for piano lesson before meeting Karel for dinner at Sakae Sushi and shopping at the Cathay (商务书局 and gramophone). Had drinks at Starbucks before heading home.

Sun: Woke up early to complete my work before I can go out. It's the last day of my March hols afterall, I don't want to be buried with my work. Met Karel after lunch to go to the Cathay to get more first day covers (stamps) before we headed to Singapore Historical Museum. As we could visit all galleries with $10 adult ticket, we chose that and I was quite impressed by the renovated musuem as well as the kind of exhibits they have. Didn't realise it's the last day of the Greek sculptures exhibition. Just glad that I went cos it's really very interesting and the replicas really look amazing. Took photos till my camera's battery went flat. Think that's the only way to stop me from taking more. I did use my hp too but of cos the quality is not as good and there's only a few images I can take as the memory is limited. Walked to Citylink to have dinner at New York New York before getting a hp accessory from Kokon Tozai. Walked to the Esplanade bus stop and boarded bus 162. Was so tired I slept throughout the bus journey.

Nice food I've tried recently

Sakae Sushi: Yakitori and mushroom Udon, Salmon and mushroom pasta, haagen-Dazs' mango sorbet served in a cupcake-shaped white chocolate.

Seasons (Raffles City basement 1): Beef stew with mashed potato, 1 dessert (coffee gelato) and 2 tapas (oreo cheesecake and brownie)

Sun with Moon: Salmon rice with soup tea set

P.S. All the names may sound weird as it's based on my descriptions instead of the actual name from the various menus...

Thursday, March 13, 2008

"Blacklisted" shops

Was out shopping with sis yesterday at Bugis and I realised why people write to the forum complaining about the lousy service they encountered when they shop here. It's really very disappointing to see the local sales personnels treat fellow Singaporeans poorly.

There was a shop in Bugis Junction where nice t-shirts were sold. Both my sis and myself intended to get 2 tees from the shop. However, I was really put off by the snobbish salesgirl. She had this attitude and her body language seems to imply that we won't be buying, we are just wasting her time browsing through the shop's items. Though we really liked the tees' designs but due to her lousy service, I simply put the clothes back on the rack and left the shop. My sis asked why I'm so pissed off and I told her I'd rather not spend then to bear with this kind of nonsense. The salesgirl wasn't even the boss and if that's the way she treats customers, I'm sure the shop won't be able to achieve a good reputation.

We headed to Bugis Street next and we were lucky enough to find a small shop selling the same range of printed tees at the same price. However, the sales person in the shop was really helpful and we could sense that he was sincere to serve us. We bought 2 nicer prints frm the shop and I won't mind going back to the shop to check out what they have the next time I'm there.

The next "blacklisted" shop on my shopping list is one located on the second level of Bugis street. I recognise the lady boss as she was a very eloquent sales lady from bYSi before. She quitted her job there a few years back to open her own shop in Bugis street. I saw that she had some leggings and tights that I was interested in getting, hence I went into the shop to check out the price. After enquiring for awhile, she started getting impatient and she took on the tone that I was just there to check out prices. She implied that I was not serious in making any purchase and I was not prepared to pay a higher price for better quality materials. I was quite disgusted with the way she handles customers. My sis pointed out if the lady had on a microphone and portable speaker, she would have resembled a sales promoter for cooking ware at shopping malls. She had a rather condescending attitude and was quite rude when we were about to leave the shop. I merely mentioned that I didn't know the leggings will cost so much and she took offence in that. She concluded that I was just there to compare prices and was not sincere in buying anything from her. With just this incident, she has actually succeeded in removing me from her potential customers' list. I don't see the need to spend and suffer such lousy service even if I were there to buy the simplest or cheapest item in a shop. It's not a matter of how expensive the item in the shop or how rich a customer is. It's all in the attitude!

Monday, March 10, 2008

The Leap Years

Really enjoyed the movie though some scenes were pretty predictable. Loved the music used (Corrine May's) and how Ananda Everingham (Jeremy) interacted with Wong Li Lin (Li Ann) to create the romantic atmosphere. Cried a little of course when Li Ann had to leave Jeremy after finding out that he's actually married and her good buddy Qi Yu Wu (KS), decided to leave her.
Here's the official website link:
http://www.mediacorpraintree.com/TLY/

Sunday, March 09, 2008

Baby Kezel Ong and all the "jie jies"


Met Yifen and Wanjun at Kovan for lunch before heading to Yanxuan's Mum's place to visit her and her princess Kezel. When we reach there, Sam and Corinne were there already. It was nice catching up. Went to Clarke Quay teochew restaurant for family dinner in the evening.

Sunday, March 02, 2008

Story of Stuff

Interesting website I chanced upon...do check out the youtube videos...very meaningful...
www.StoryofStuff.com

Saturday, March 01, 2008

Hmm...

Went to The Cathay to check out Fitness First as I've won the Jan/SHAPE magazine promotion of a 1 month free pass. Made an appointment through the phone on Thursday to see the consultant called Zac, however, when I got there today, he was not around. Ryan showed me around and though the gym is relatively small, but it's well-equipped. Can't start using the membership as it's the first time the consultant encounter such a promotion, and he needed to verify with his headquarters. Unfortunately, the office is closed today so I have to make another trip again.
Bought 4 cute wooden card holders (pinocchio, luckycharm cat, little red riding hood and the big bad wolf) from woodwould. Pricey but can't resist the temptation...
Found the Picasso postcard of a dove in Artica for $1.55. Taught a p4 unit about this so bought it to show my students...
Went to Starbucks to find a replacement for my "design own tumbler"...Asked the staff if I can just buy the tumbler without the cap but they don't sell them separately. Decided to buy a new tumbler for $19.90. The replacement will meet the "retired" tumbler on Monday.
Asked Mrs Hong for help with my school's musical lyrics but she frankly told me it's too difficult for my standard as I need to go for song composition course to be able to do such a task...sigh...just got to try my best and hopefully things work out.

Friday, February 29, 2008

Suay...

Went for my P1 class today and was so unlucky...my favourite starbucks design your own tumbler "committed suicide" from the teacher's desk. I should have placed the bottle in my teaching bag instead of the table where my P1 students were coming up to me for the portfolio assessment. Sigh...when I heard the loud cracking sound, i was thinking to myself "oh no, this sounds serious..." and when I braced myself to look at the damage, my heart literally ached...there were 2 cracks, one on the inside and the other on the outside...totally gone. The first time I dropped the bottle, the impact wasn't as great and there were no cracks or leakage at all but this time, the bottle decided to call it quits...Didn't even bring it back home, as I was carrying a lot of things (as usual to work on weekends)...it's just parked on my workstation, think will try to modify it into an art piece.

Thursday, February 28, 2008

Goondu

Caught the flu bug and was too lethargic to head to school. Reported sick early around 650am then headed to Sengkang Polyclinic to see the doctor. Luckily within 2 hrs I got my medication and MC. Went home and started working on the lower primary portfolio assessment. Though I took the drowsy medication, however, due to the fact that I still have so much to complete, I didn't even take a nap.

Since sis went to her Sports Camp, decided to start wrapping her birthday gift. To my horror, I've actually kept her gift in such a secret place, that I myself, have forgotten where I've hid it. Think I must be getting old and forgetful but it's really frustrating when you are looking for something, and you simply can't recall where you've placed it.

Saturday, February 09, 2008

鼠年吉祥

从星期二开始,就有过年的感觉。今年,因华文部缺了三位老师(两位病假;一位已经暂时辞职去追逐他的梦想),因此剩下的老师都齐心协力,尽全力帮忙准备学校的农历新年庆祝活动。
今年,我负责的项目是包巧克力金币在红包封套给全校1896位学生(哈哈,出了真字,但我不买4D)。幸好,同事们都很合作,我们花了大约3小时就大功告成。因每年学校的华文老师都会准备这些红包 (每个红包套里会有两枚巧克力金币),预祝学生学业进步。虽然学生现在可在外头买到更合胃口的巧克力,但怎么说,希望他们会明白我们的心意。这么做也是让异族同胞的学生能感染农历新年的一些气氛。忙碌了整个星期二,晚餐是全家人和叔叔一家到茂兴潮州餐馆吃饭。
除夕当天,学校举办两场农历新年表演。因只上半天课,所以,7am就到学校去准备。除了分发“红包”,就是看其他华文老师在表演时需要什么帮忙。放学后,和 Esther 乘搭免费的巴士到 Punggol Plaza 的“口福”吃午餐。尝了那里的酿豆腐,觉得口味蛮不错。最期待的团圆饭,父母准备了火锅和烧烤先腌制过的猪肉。烤过的猪肉,加了韩国的酱料,包在生菜,放入口中,真的好美味!
初一,如往常先到庙里拜拜,然后再到老姨家拜年。因今年我们比较迟出门,所以到了外婆家,还头一朝碰到三姨一家人。接着,我们前往老婶家。Ivy姑姑和 Zalmund 现在也住在那里。吃了美味的咖喱鸡,我们才去实龙岗买鱼头咖喱当午餐。下午,叔叔一家前来拜年。今年我的红包“缩水”了。 (#_#)
初二,爸爸的老友 Uncle Steven 一家一早来拜年。今年还合影留念。Ivy姑姑,Zalmund,Julie姑姑一家和 Jason叔叔一家随后到来。Jason叔叔的女儿,Sophia Lai Wenxi, 好可爱!大家都想抱她,和她拍照。Kaiting 已经小一了,她比较乖巧,还会教妹妹 Kaiyun 尝试弹钢琴。Kaiyun告诉我,她不会弹钢琴,但当我问起她会什么乐器时,她说她会吹口琴。

Kaiting,Wenxi & me

Ivy姑姑和我谈了不少她在幼稚园教书的事,听起来她真的很热衷于教育孩子。她的这种精神很值得我学习。好羡慕她的小学生,能有这么好的老师。好佩服她,为了理想不怕辛苦半工半读,真是个女强人!看了两天樱桃小丸子的特别电视剧,主演的日本小女孩的演技真是一流!在风景迷人的富士山前取景,温馨的剧情,可爱的演员,通过短剧的方式呈现,这是一部全家共赏的好戏。

捞起!發财!

初三,和父母与妹妹到了裕廊的庙去拜拜,然后到 IMM 的 Hoshi Japanese Restaurant 吃午餐。要走去日本餐馆时,我们还看到舞狮表演。妈妈一向很喜欢舞狮,还要求妹妹帮她用手机拍照。第一次看到舞狮用桔子排出真字和“發”字,感觉很新鲜。吃饱后,我们到了 Daiso 去购物。因我和妹妹在卖袜子的架前耗了不少时间(想买的袜子吊的很高,我还得用在一旁售卖的拐杖勾下,画面超滑稽,就像在游乐园玩游戏一样),父母要到 Giant 买食物时,我们还没逛完,所以我和妹妹继续逛 Daiso。不知不觉,在那里就花了$24。傍晚,家人一起吃鱼生。感觉上,今年的新年过的很充实:虽然带了工作回家完成,但因为有四天的连续假期,还是很开心。

Friday, February 01, 2008

Special golden beetle

Front view (in plastic bag with breathing holes)

Back view (in plastic bag with breathing holes)
Luckily I'm not one of those girls who will scream at the sight of bugs so when this "kamakazi" golden beetle crashed into my arm then my leg, I let it fall to my home slippers. However, the beetle has such a unique color and design that I've decided to keep it as a "pet" till it's time to let it fly free again...