A Malaysian Girl's Search for Herself

2011 Checklist

2011-12-31T13:29:00.001+08:00

It's time again to do my annual checklist!

Let's see...for 2011:

Maintained a regular exercise routine Check

Avoid being mistaken for being pregnant Sort of Check, cause the last time I suspected someone thought so was in January when a guy gave up his seat in the monorail for me

Fit back to old clothes Check! Oh yeah!

Travel Check in small fonts because I only went to Manila, and that isn't the usual kind of travel exploration that I do. It was enjoyable, nonetheless, living the life of a pseudo-expat for awhile.

Registered my company, become a Sole Proprietor Check

Own my own property No check :-( I attempted to purchase a SoHo lot in Subang, but the deal fell through. Price of property was ridiculous in 2011 making other affordable purchases nil. Perhaps next year will be my lucky year.

Become an auntie, again! Check

Spend more time with family and friends Check

I don't make resolutions, but I have hopes and things to look forward to for the year ahead:

Stabilising my business and achieving my 2012 target revenue
My two best friends getting married!
Do some 'serious' travelling, with many countries seeing economic uncertainty, we see more affordable flight tickets and lower exchange rates
Maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle
Seeing my niece and nephew grow up
Keeping spending quality time with loved ones

What a Happy New Year I imagine it's going to be!

Zenzi Facial, SS19 Subang Jaya

2011-12-29T03:06:00.002+08:00

My initial visit to the salon was promising. Julia was careful in promoting their packages, and recommended that I tried out one of their less expensive facials with a 1st trial offer. I was eager to, mainly because they also used Sothy's products.

Their decor was minimal and practical. There wasn't a cupboard for customers to hang their clothes - only a hook and hanger. But I didn't raise my expectations for a RM108 trial facial.

I was pleasantly surprised that they too have only one person servicing the client throughout the whole facial. Even Leonard Drake has two - a senior to consult and extract, and the junior does the rest. I prefer the former to get that 'exclusive' service and less bustling in and out the room.

I won't go on too long about the facial. It delivered what was expected for that price.

HOWEVER....(and that's in caps)

The extraction was painful. I'm usually able to tolerate a lot of pain for the sake of vanity, but this is the first time I actually jumped at one point and told the therapist to be more gentle.

She said that the pain was due to my dehydrated skin. I do agree that skin is more sensitive when dry, but mine had always been so and I've never experienced such degree of discomfort (except for my first experience with Herbaline @IOI Puchong which was horrendous).

I told her I was extremely sensitive around my nose and jaw areas, and to be gentle. But I did not feel that she paid any extra care in those areas.

So, price wise - good (a package of six facials could be as low as RM108 each). Product wise - great. But unless you are a masochist or have not much in your vanity fund, then 128Faubourg is a much more relaxing experience!

Looking to Britain as role model

2011-11-30T12:57:00.003+08:00

They may have colonised us once upon a time ago, but it doesn't change the fact that it is a great nation and there is a thing or two (or how about a million) that we can learn from our past coloniser. Why reinvent the wheel when there are already lessons we can learn from other countries' which had already undergone trial and error, war and bloodshed, denial and acceptance, to finally emerge with fine tuned systems, society and ideologies? I remember during my youth, we were taught the phrase 'pengaruh asing yang negatif' or rather 'semua pengaruh asing adalah negatif'. I hope that our children are no longer taught to be so narrow minded.

The fact is, we are still a developing country. But we need not take as long as present developed countries to reach the elevated status because we can now simply imitate them. We're not creating the wave, we're just riding it from behind,which I believe is the ideal place to be for a young country, business or trend setter. It took Thomas Edison one thousand tries to invent the lightbulb...we only had to buy one, and reverse engineer it.

It took Britian years to figure out that the judiciary, legislative and executive should practise separation of power and they installed the system before relinquishing Tanah Melaya, hoping that we would benefit from their knowledge borne from many years of running their own country. It took us only few years to screw it up, and puppet strings reached out from the executive to the other two.

Recently, reading The Star gets me riddled. There's always something or other that demonstrates our leaders backwardness and close mindedness. They published a piece with the headline that a 'Malaysian Malaysia is against Principles' and the content further spews that it's 'unfair'. Unfair to whom? Are the principles fair in its own sense? Man made laws, our constitution included, specifically Article 153, are not cast in stone.

Source: BBC.co.uk

Last year, Britain amended their succession laws to allow female heir equal rights to inherit the throne. If William and Kate have a female firstborn, she'll inherit throne instead of waiting to see if she has brothers or if they later abdicate. Further to that, while previously the heir may not marry a Roman Catholic, they now can without having to relinquish the throne. The reason that Britain has taken these steps? Because it's common sense in these times to not discriminate. If Britain can change a 300 year law because it's the right thing to do, what's one Article 153?

Scaling down to another issue that perhaps seems less important, but appeals to more and still involves Kate - thrifty fashion. Kate is known as the thrifty princess, who shops at ZARA and Topshop (considered average price retailers in the UK), buys designer pieces on sale, recycles clothes (meaning she wears them more than once, which is an everyday occurance for us 'commoners' but previously a fashion faux pas for celebrities) and even borrows her mum's clothes. It's an excellent example for staying chic during global economy uncertainty and she carries her clothes so elegantly.

Kate, in her mum's cast off
Source: dailymail.co.uk

Source: Huffington Post

Even Michelle Obama shops at Target and looks good doing it.

As oppose to...oh well....you know....our local scandals involving a ring, a a bracelet and a few handbags, none succeeding in improving the wearer's appearance.

Who are the 'pengaruh-pengaruh negatif' now?

Empire Gallery Subang Reopens; Jaya Grocer has Bentong Ginger

2011-11-16T20:17:00.002+08:00

I went back to Empire Gallery for my facial today. They had just reopen for business yesterday after the explosion that occurred barely two months ago.

It looks as good as before from the front:

And some surprise improvements since. I was greeted by bright red panelling at the entrance of the car park, very IKEA-ish.

It's never easy to find parking here during lunch hour, but it was not bumper-to-bumper like its pre-blow up days. Perhaps customers are still wary and many are unaware that Empire Gallery is back in business.

There were still a number of shops not opened. The hoardings, which bear the shopping mall's logo and not individual tenants', give away no clue as to whether the prior tenants have decided to move away, or they are not ready to open their doors yet.

This one used to be the organic food shop, I think.

La Senza is so unprepared, that they even let themselves get caught naked (I mean, the mannequins lah)

Toilets on the ground floor were under maintenance. I wonder how they were affected, being situated at the other side of the mall, away from the gas line that exploded. But what do I know about building structures. Perhaps the lines wind around underground like mating snakes.

On to happier images, they have already begun to bring out the Christmas items for display.

Tiers of teddy bears at the main entrance. Aww.

And the most exciting difference: Royce is finally open! They were still renovating before the incident. RM45 per box worth of well spent money in mini chocolate bricks that melt down your throat as molten bliss (almost having a forgasm thinking about it).

Not forgetting that Jaya Grocer Supermarket has also raised its grill (door).

I love shopping in Jaya Grocer. Their outlets are always small and cosy (especially the one in Empire Gallery) yet I can always find the things I want or stumble upon unique products (like self-heating cans of choco).

Bentong Ginger was on my shopping list, and since I was there, I thought I'd try my luck. It's not everywhere you can find this ginger, popular as it may be, but my gut told me that Jaya Grocer would have it.

Lo Behold, they DID!

It's more expensive than other places, but that's alright. I'm paying for the convenience and tipping them for how neatly they stack their veggies (pictured in the background) for my pleasurable shopping experience.

I stood awhile, staring at the cans of pickled lettuce (also on my list) wondering how they can stock up on so much variety yet keep the shelves full. In such a small outlet, to maintain variety, they would be able to display only one or two column of each product (eg. only one column of Heinz baked beans instead of the entire shelf, because the rest will have to go to cap ayam, cap itik, cap bagus, etc). And the problem with allocating such small space per item is that the workers will have to be on their toes, stocking up items as they leave the shelves so that other customers looking for the same item will not be left wanting.

Yes, such operational issues amuse me. I'm boring that way.

At the same time, I'm also thinking (as we womenfolk can think many different thoughts, all different subject at multi directions, all at the same time) about Mr Teng, the founder of Jaya Grocer.

Now, my brief acquaintance with him happened a few years ago when Sunway opened a pharmacy and we sought his advice and expertise in retail. It's one of those "I remember him, He don't remember me" sort of two ships passing acquaintance - he, the mighty cruise ship; me, the tiny sampan. But he is one of those figures that a young, ambitious executive (like I was then) would look up to.

His father opened the TMC sundry shop, which now still stands in Bangsar, somewhere across the road from Bangsar Village. He told us how he had to work at his father's shop, carrying goods and other labourious errands. Later, the family founded the Giant Hypermarket, which they later sold for lots of money (I don't know how much, but lots).

Mr Teng brought the Ace Hardware brand to Malaysia and later founded Jaya Grocer Supermarket.

When he was serving us advice about retail, which was about three years ago, he brought us to his then newly opened supermarket at Jaya 33, and enthused about the way the vegetables were displayed, the chalkboard they used to display the prices and the way the lights were positioned. I realise now that indirectly he was showing us that success is in the details, along with obvious passion. He was also down-to-earth and friendly, almost unawares of his own success and wealth, as how we like our prominent business leaders to be (I hear from good sources that Tony Fernandes is the same).

So, yes, I was thinking all that and then some while looking at pickled lettuce.

I went to pay my purchases, and 'think' of the devil, there he was! Mr Teng in the flesh, sitting at the deli area looking at some papers. I imagine, figuring out how to minimise his loses from the two month closure.

No wonder the supermarket looked spick and span, the shelves well arranged and stocked, and the cashiers smiling. Boss mali mah.

Back to the reason I was in empire...MY FACE. I'm braving myself to post before and after pictures. Should I? Can I? Dare I?

Old Blossom Box: An Exchange

2011-11-15T02:26:00.003+08:00

During my first visit to Old Blossom Box, I picked up a pretty, very feminine and unique cut out piece.

What was once this:

Became this:

The pink material was not colour-fast and stained the white material.

Jezmine, boutique owner and designer, sent the blouse to her cleaners to attempt a recovery. Unfortunately, it could not be saved. So, Jezmine let me exchange the blouse for another item (Hurrah, for the exchange! Yay, for good customer service! Boo-hoo, for the ruined blouse)

Old Blossom Box is such a pretty boutique, and puts me in such a retno (retro + nostalgia) state of mind.

I always end up trying many many many pieces each time I visit.

This fabric print makes me think of my Ladybird Classic Books I used to read when I was a 'wittle wittle' girl.

Any girl (and boy?) born in the 80s would have played with paperdolls!

I absolutely love this Drama Bow blouse. The size of the bow certainly lives up to its name. I could wear this with a black pencil skirt for work or with a full, silver skirt for dinner (both pieces of which I have).

But I settled on practicality

(oh, what has happened to the quirky, impractical side of me?! Has age murdered it?)

I picked a light, rayon (I think) dress.

The most delightful thing about the dress is the little horsies print!

I can wear the dress with a jacket to walk Little Wang, my pet lion or, if you have no imagination, to shamelessly take my own picture with my traditional chinese stuff toy.

I love the square, old fashion cap sleeves and collar. When I wear my pencil skirt and A-line skirt over, I feel almost Mad Men-ish.

Little Wang wanted a picture of himself as the only face in focus.

I noticed that the horses for the most part are galloping upside down. But whether upside down on my breast, right side up on my collarbone or sideways on my arm, they make a charming pattern. I almost feel ticklish thinking of the tiny creatures prancing on me.

They got the fabric orientation right for this one though:

But I prefer to think (read: deceive myself) that my piece is like a coin or stamp wrongly minted/printed - it becomes a valuable collector's item.

You can subscribe to the Old Blossom Box blog, receive updates, make reservations and purchases through email. But I vehemently advise retno-lovers to visit the boutique and allow yourself to revert to your childhood.

Subang Jaya: Thunderstorm and Hailstones

2011-11-14T16:55:00.004+08:00

Here's a bit of resident watch news.

Yesterday, Subang Jaya saw the worst thunderstorm and first hailstone in its history. I missed the entire drama because my Dad warned me against going back to USJ. I had an eerie premonition the night before, dreaming of a first tornado that passed by without causing much harm except items strewn about the home, but suddenly a second tornado appear, and I was filled with dread that lives would be claimed by this one.

I had dismissed the dream, until I saw the citizens of USJ9 gathering on the row facing one of the main roads while I drove to my parents' home. During bad storms, it's not unusual that branches in Subang Jaya would crack and fall. But this time, entire trees, and I stress that it's plural, in a row were uprooted, fell flat across the road and onto cars, fence and walls across the road. The cars were buried under the fallen folliage and the owners were probably anxiously waiting while MPSJ cleared the trees, to access the damage. Insurance will not cover this 'act of God' unless they had opted for 'natural disaster' coverage, which most of us for the most part, in nature-rally uneventful Malaysia, would not.

And I can imagine how the residents were both scared and amused that hailstones were 'plonking plunking' onto their cars and aluminium porch roof. The makeshift aluminium guardhouse was also askew (I can imagine the frightened guard inside during the storm and hope he had found a safe shelter).

Here's pictures taken by my brother of the fallen trees, and the image and video of the hailstones by his friend:

Driving pass today (intentionally, for the sake of kay-pohness) there was not much clue as to the events yesterday except for particularly damp and darkened ground, and a few workers clearing the remaining branches. The garden walls of the homes were all intact. I suppose the cars would have been towed to the workshop.

Malaysians, brace yourself for a very wet weather in the year ahead, according to our Meteorological Department. Flash floods, heavy storms, maybe more hailstones? It would seem that our piece of sunny earth will not be quite the same.

ZARA Warehouse Sale 2011 - pickings

2011-11-11T02:01:00.002+08:00

continued from ZARA Warehouse Sale 2011 - Review and Tips.

After my friend had to queue four hours to pay, the pickings had better be good.

And they are!

She's mighty pleased with her RM99 Massimo Dutti jacket (I don't know how she managed to find one so cheap. There was not another one at this price to be found). It's a light one, with no lining, but perfect for our Malaysian weather and office use. The cut of the jacket is superb and gives her a great figure (note to self: Ask her for a picture for this entry).

This time I only got two items, both from Massimo Dutti. It's quite pathetic sometimes to realise that in the countries with stronger currencies, this brand is considered very affordable and even labeled 'credit crunch chic' - they buy MD when the economy is bad! ZARA to them is like Padini to us; Massimo Dutti's poor counterpart is possibly British India. Once ZARA and MD cross the oceans to Malaysia and go through the currency exchange, it's so bloody expensive for us poor ringgit earners.

An-nee-way...

I didn't get a jacket because 'I don't work in an office no more' and my clients sometimes meet me in jeans so I can't overdress either.

Instead, I found a unique half-leather cardigan and pleated knitted skirt:

I have justified to myself why buying them was a brilliant move:-

The skirt.

The outershell is made from 70% wool, which is of course more expensive than cotton. Despite being wool, it is light and soft, and falls beautifully, like no other knitted skirt have ever done before except to exaggerate my tummy and hips.

The polyester lining is also soft and light, a shadow of the exterior. It is pictured below on the left, compared to the stiffer rayon lining of a ZARA skirt of mine.

A quick google search however shows that rayon is the preferred material, and polyester is not durable. I suppose the more expensive the item is, the more delicate - like silk, porcelain and antiques. And there is also varying quality of material - the best of the worst is better than the worst of the best.

I have a crazy, weird habit of peeling back the layers of price stickers to see how much they had been discounted over the course of sale, further markdown, subsequent sale, mark down again... It makes me feel sooo good to see how much money I am 'saving' (and then a voice tells me if I really want to save, I should just NOT BUY that damn thing that the stickers are attached to...but this voice always loses).

Here I show the images in reverse order of being taken, so it looks like it's being marked down on the spot:

Whee! I love deceiving myself! At 70% off, a good buy.

And there's the cardigan.

The leather is made from sheepskin and keeps the inside warmer than wholly knitwear cardigans.

The inner side of the leather is lined with blue pinstripe cotton. I love it when the lining is unexpected and peeks out occasionally when the wearer is moving.

The same self-deception:

At 75% off, "how can don't buy?!"

Happee. Poorer. But Happee.

ZARA Warehouse Sale 2011 - review and tips

2011-11-11T01:00:00.006+08:00

Rampage!

I have never been to such a frightening ZARA Warehouse Sale since I started going five years ago.

This time they had it at Jaya One's Event Hall, which is bigger. The turnout was massive, and it was a working Thursday no less (don't these people have to work/take care of their kids/study?). I arrived at 10.55AM, The queue snaked from the hall all the way into the parking lot until the furthest end.

At 11am, they allowed the early line to enter fast enough, but once inside, it was a mad dash of browsing, grabbing, pushing, nudging, elbowing and stepping on each other's feet - the perils of warehouse sales.

Although widely referred to as the ZARA warehouse sale, the same company also brings Massimo Dutti and Pull and Bear into Malaysia.

The offerings were pretty good this time, with decent and varied designs. I could even find outfits i liked in S size. But I was one of the earlier 'vultures'. Those who came later had to pick through the Ls and XLs. There were nicer Massimo Dutti designs and more of its tops and dresses (than prior sales), and plenty of its quality and well cut jackets going for RM199 (read: must buy!)

As usual, they only had a few narrow mirrors scattered throughout the hall. They placed them quite ill, by the aisle where shoppers needed to pass. Unlike in Atria (the venue of past sales) where there was an empty corner for us to rest and try on the clothes.

The worst had to be payment. The queue was uncontrolled and unchecked. It winded along the perimeter of the store. I shopped for an hour, queued for another, and then I had to leave for a meeting, so my friend continued queuing for a total of FOUR HOURS TO PAY. She later related how there were people who almost fainted (from the exhaustion, bad air ventilation, hunger), those who needed to go to the bathroom but were told by the salesperson that they had to queue again to enter, those who tried to cut queue, those who wanted to give up... When she neared the cashier counter, she realised that one of the reason the queue moved so slowly was that people were just jumping into the queue before the cordon lines began. Some control by the staff would have made the entire process less disrupted and more fair. In the case of this ZARA warehouse sale, perhaps it'll be wise to go in a group (or a reluctant boyfriend) and one can start queueing early then take turns to stand in line (yes, it's complicated, but sales are 'no joke' to a lady).

On the other hand, Warehouse Sales can sometimes be fun and rewarding despite the pains. There is nothing more exciting than chancing upon a great item at greatly slashed prices. Over the years, I've even come out of my grumpy shell to chat with other shoppers and to ask/give opinions about the pieces we are trying on. I was sharing a mirror today with a lone shopper, and offered her my two cents to narrow down the many wonderful (Massimo Dutti) jackets she was trying on. Finding out that I was an 'experienced' warehouse sales hound, she asked me for tips. I realised that I do indeed have a strategy:

Warehouse Sale Shopping Tips

Preparation
1) Have a good, hearty breakfast - you'll need the energy.
2) Before entering, empty your bladder and rehydrate - you don't want to waste time going to the toilet, and you don't want to be fatigued from dehydration
3) Go in light clothing, preferably a sleeveless top and shorts - you're comfortable, not hot, and you can slip clothes onto what you're wearing and still get a good idea of how it would look like properly worn
4) Wear something with pockets, so you can keep your money/credit card and phone there and keep your hands free for grabbing.
If you must, use a slingbag, but I prefer to be bag-free so it doesn't encumber me while I try on clothes (removing the bag each time is an extra step in the process).

Let the Shopping Begin!
5) Grab first, think later.
6) (in the case of ZARA Warehouse Sales) Go for those that are on hangers first. Chances are that those are more limited in designs and sizes. Those in the bins have more of the same designs so you'll probably still get the size you want if you dig deeper and wider.
7) If another woman is holding something you like, and look like she's still considering it, don't ask her if she wants it. With regards to clothes, women are like boys with their toys - they don't want it until someone else wants it. Tail her discreetly until she drops it, then snatch it up like free gold.
8) If it's not your size, don't deceive yourself that you can wear it/tailor it/shrink into it...you'll probably end up not wearing it. And even though it's "only 20 ringgit!", that's money gone down the drain.
9) (if you're alone) Don't be shy to ask a stranger if it looks good on you. They are probably more honest than a friend! Over the years, there were friendly strangers who have helped me to decide what to buy and what not to.
10) Before paying, always go through your pile and ask yourself honestly whether it's 'really me?', or you're just caught in the sale craze. Skim through until you settle on items you really like.

For those who dare to brave it, here's the details:

They do restock each day of the sale, so go early to get the good stuff! And good luck!

To see what I bought, ~~wait for my next entry.~~see ZARA Warehouse Sale 2011 - pickings

Ignorance or Worst Pickup Lines EVER

2011-11-08T23:07:00.001+08:00

During two separate incidents in supermarkets, strange men apparently saw me as the friendly girl to turn to for help/chat up. To me, I was just at the wrong place at the wrong time.

1st incident at Cold Storage...

Guy picked up a Japanese cucumber and asked me as I was walking pass, my mind focused on seeking out lemongrass,

"Is this a cucumber?"

I'd rather believe he sincerely wasn't sure. Here's a japanese cucumber vs a 'normal' cucumber:

2nd incident at a KK Supermarket...

I picked up a bottle of cooking oil and study the label. A guy comes up and picks a bottle of the same, then asked me "Is this for massage?"

Guys are really ignorant of cooking ingredients, can't deduce that massage oils are not sold in community supermarkets much less in the cooking section or this was the worst and most disgusting pickup line ever!

A PSA: We are more alike than you think.

2011-10-27T10:04:00.001+08:00

This is a PSA I created from recent incidents that made me realised how inhumane humans are.

Read the story behind these four animals at my Word Artisan blog.

Weekend Port Dickson Getaway: Avillion Admiral Cove Hotel & El Cactus Bistro

2011-10-24T15:27:00.001+08:00

Port Dickson makes for a nice weekend, overnight getaway. It's merely an hour, traffic jam-free drive away from home, which is less than the time it takes me to get to KL from Subang Jaya.

I opted to stay at the Avillion Admiral Cove because it overlooks a marina, rather than the more common beachfront hotels. A Hotel's star rating depends on the facilities available, but I also believe that the standard of hospitality should increase alongside the number of stars. Avillion Admiral Cove is branded a four-star rating, but I think it's hovering above a three, with so much potential to reach the next level.

The architecture is simple and clean, with the lower levels embracing a contemporary interpretation of colonial style. It overlooks an artificial cove where private yachts are docked. The protruding arm of land that protects the cove is allocated for private bungalows.

The receptionists were not unfriendly, but not exactly welcoming either. Just going about checking us in, matter a factly. I noticed them being handed packed food (I suppose someone bought their dinner for them). For a four star hotel, I would not expect this to happen at the reception. There is a reason why hotels have service corridors and staff area.

I chose the Straits Room, which is situated in the View Wing because it has a clear view of the marina and the sunset.

The room was spacious and cosy, rather than the stiff decor of most hotel rooms. Unfortunately I had the room on the first floor, which overlooks the walkway by the marina one level below. Chatter, laughter, footsteps and screams(of children) travelled easily into my room, and vice versa from my room to the unwilling ears of strangers:

The furniture were not well-maintained at all. Wooden door frames and table tops were worn out, badly needing a coat of lacquer. There were clear stains on the cushion and pillow covers. The lampshade on the standing lamp was misshaped after a poor attempt at repairing the torn material with cellophane tape. A four star hotel would have maintained the furniture and linen better - refurbish what could be refurbished and replace what should be replaced.

A five minute walk away was the Hotel's private beach - a long stretch of peaceful sand and sea, with a few ice cream motorbikes chugging along and ringing their bells. We had a nice, leisurely stroll eating ice lollies on a relatively clean beach (as clean as a Port Dickson beach can be). Unfortunately for us, there were two or three corporate family day and teambuilding events running concurrently at the hotel which occasionally disrupted the peace. In the future, it would be wise travel planning to ask the hotel if they were hosting any corporate events at the intended time of stay.

The pool was at a pretty little tree shaded corner that overlooked the inner end of the marina. Again, because of the corporate events, the pool was filled with both adult and children. The towel counter ran out of towels and promised replacements that never came. In the end, I just stood, admiring the boats and yachts I would never own, until I was suitably dry.

I made sure to return to the room to catch the sunset. But the clouds were jealous and would have me look at them instead! It was a beautiful sight, nonetheless, and when the burst of orange happened as the shrouded sun dipped into the horizon, I can almost imagine there was a massive forest fire across the Straits of Malacca in Indonesia.

There is only so many non-hotel restaurants in Port Dickson. We went to El Cactus bistro less than 10 minutes drive from the Hotel.

It was an old bungalow converted into a ranch-like restaurant. Tables were set out on the foyer for diners and bar tables on the inside for drinkers.

The food takes awhile to come. We waited almost 45 minutes, I believe. But the food was worth the wait.

We had the Buritto with beef sauce, served with Mexican Rice and a nice portion of Salad (RM20). The Tortilla Bread was fluffy and well lined with melted cheese and had generous filling of beef sauce and greens, topped with three different dips - guacamole, salsa and sour cream.

And the Sirloin Steak (RM35) which was well marinated and well cooked (It didn't even need the sauce).

And I do mean well-cooked, because it is so easy to overcook a beef. Beef is best, in my own taste, when it is medium. The sirloin was a lovely pink, tender and juicy.

In addition, we had the Pinta Colada (Virgin Pina Colada) and Wild Mushroom Soup which were really good as well. So, four out of four dishes were commendable.

Breakfast the next day was at the Hotel's Traders' Food Shop that overlooked the Marina. It had a lovely view, but I thought it odd that we had to walked through the pool area to reach it.

The spread was more a three star affair. It was limited, and had no live cooking stations at all. I would expect at least an egg station for a four star hotel. The meal was saved by very lovely croissants kept warm in a heated display.

Overall, a nice weekend. The Hotel had some disappointments, but it's like a gem encrusted in dust. It just needs a little polishing to make it a sought after jewel in port dickson.

Now, about ambience...Lavender Bistro and Moo Cow

2011-10-20T17:39:00.001+08:00

Yes, food may stand on its own quality and taste.

But a complementary ambience helps prepare the mind to expect good food.

When the mind is willing and expecting to be pleased, then average food becomes better, good food becomes an experience.

Most yoghurt ice-cream shops (and there seem to be a few of them mushrooming in Klang Valley lately) adopt the direct white, snow inspired decor. Moo Cow, on the other hand, decided that yoghurt is made from milk, and milk comes from cows, hey! Why don't we name and model our kiosks around a cow and its barn!

I give credit to them for their attention to detail: The wooden crate stools, wood paneled tabled and grass patterned linoleum.

Made up barn characters and a cow mascot (which I forgot to capture an image of) and an automatic sound clip of a cow mooing that plays at intervals.

Aw, clouds and blue sky on a tabletop.

Aw, bright clouds above:

Another lovely place I chanced upon was L.Table at One Utama (or is it Lotable? Lavender Bistro? That's how unclear they displayed their name - deceiving fonts and varying names).

Good food must be delivered from the plate to the lips with good cutlery. It must be heavy to the hand and this set had lovely curvature to the design:

See?

Brass mounted lamps:

Pretty curves all in a row:

Hexagon faceted water glasses that cast mesmerising, dancing shadows:

Wingback chairs deceive you into thinking you have privacy, if you just lean back and let the protruding sides block the sight and sounds outside your booth:

And because the curve just look elegant:

Okay, okay, just a bit about the food.

Moo Cow is my second favourite frozen yoghurt (after JCo) because they make frozen yoghurt as frozen yoghurt should be - natural and slightly sour. None of that sugar loading, artificial flavours and colours. Might as well eat Paddle Pop if you're going to eat all that unhealthy goodness - it's cheaper.

L.Table is actual set behind a bakery:

We had the mushroom soup and Duck with Pappardelle. The two dishes were, not to say bland, but lightly seasoned. If they marketed themselves as wholesome and natural, one can even enjoy it immensely (like how organic foodshops serve tasteless dishes, but in our minds that's how healthy food should taste like).

28 Faubourg (again), but at One Utama this time

2011-10-17T15:07:00.001+08:00

I went to make use of the facial voucher from the package I had purchased the last time.

Unfortunately, the entire Empire Gallery had be shut down due to the infamous big boom. So I opted to go to the One Utama branch. The therapists from Empire are temporarily nomads, shifting between OneU and Bangsar depending on where their customers wish to go. It would seem some customers had permanently moved their account from Empire to other branches, doubting the safety of the place. I wonder how many customers of the mall would think the same. I would think that the management would be paranoid with safety measures since the incident...

But I digress.

After discussing with Vin (my therapist), she recommended the Vital Coolness Treatment (RM260) to Calm and Repair the skin. I was disappointed to be shown to a provisional room of sorts, that stood in front of the counter, seemingly built as an afterthought in the receiving area. Although there were a curtain and sliding door, I would hear muted conversations throughout the entire treatment.

Nonetheless, I enjoyed this treatment tremendously. There was the use of the Desquacream that is a deep pore cleanser, left on to dry and then rubbed off with the fingers. For once, I had the most painless (or rather, as painless as it can be) extraction. Of course I had diligently used my hydration mask in the past month, but credit also has to be given to the able hands of my therapist.

And then the glorious face massage after application of the hydration ampoule. Again, their face massage is the uniqueness of their treatments, and differs in each, I am told.

And there are two masks, one to brighten and reduce the scars distinctiveness, one to repair the skin.

Vin forgot to pluck my eyebrows this time though, but no matter, because I like them bushy anyway.

A week had gone by and I'm feeling little impurities pushing out on my skin surface. I suppose better out than staying in? Although a more obvious improvement was seen after the first treatment, that had cost RM130 more, I suppose there has to be a difference. We get what we pay for, it's only fair in life.

I have one more voucher to go. After that, will I continue, or will I continue my search for the best facial?

Supper at Ben's, KLCC

2011-10-12T16:24:00.000+08:00

When I saw this, I knew that Ben's and I were off to a good start:

At night, the place is cool and mysterious, with its black, white and grey decor:

And a romantic night view of the KLCC fountain and cityscape:

Xearthed tells me that in the daytime, the ambience is quite the opposite.

I thought the 'fountain pen hand written' menu was utterly charming:

We were only there for supper, so we had the mushroom soup - chunky, as all mushroom soup should be:

Belgian fries, which just means its criss-cut and coated with batter, but sinfully delicious all the same:

And a not so sinful Red Velvet. The cake was very light, which I presume is vanilla flavoured, and the icing was a very light cream cheese or perhaps cookie dough:

And Berry Basil Lemonade, just because the name rhymes well:

And for those who are in a dining group not so well associated with each other, or simply just because you've run out of intelligent things to say to each other - Conversation topics and recipes:

Big Bad Wolf Book Sale Pickings

2011-10-08T12:16:00.004+08:00

I'm ashamed to say that I only learnt about the Big Bad Wolf Book Sale this year, despite calling myself a book aficionado. I love the word 'sale' especially when it's in the same sentence as '75-95% off'.

So I ventured to the strange land of 'Serdang', a place which I have never set foot on. Serdang is one of those places often heard about, but rarely visited, like strange, mythical faraway lands of Rawang, Selayang, Gopeng, Jinjang...

The directions to the sale were not cleverly placed, but thankfully I had equipped myself with a GPS. I arrived at 11am, one hour into the first day of the sale which was a Friday. Already the car park was filling up, and after taking a shuttle bus to the hall, there was even a queue to enter. I was surprised that there are so many people who do not need to work or be at work on a weekday afternoon:

The organisers claim there are 1.5million books. For a book lover, this is a dreamland. People had eyes focused on the stacks of books, absentmindedly bumping into others with their boxes, bags and trolleys. Many people collected four to five boxes overbrimming with books, which debunks the myth that Malaysians don't read. We DO read, but it's the high price of books in Malaysia that make us reluctant to buy.

In the US or UK, a book may cost about USD15 or GBP10, which is chump change to them. In Malaysia, it costs about RM30-60 for a paperback, which is equivalent to five to ten meals of economy rice (1 meat + 1 vege).

I have to say that I'm impressed at how well the sale was organised. There were buses shuttling people between the entrance and car park; crowd control at the entrance, managing the number of people inside to ensure a pleasurable browsing experience; empty boxes for those who did not bring their own bags or trolleys; clean toilets; customer service counters where you could store your selected books while you pick up another empty carrier to fill with more books.

The payment queues were incredibly long and slow moving because of the amount of books each customer purchased. Despite having two cashiers to a line, and additional staff to sort the books into stacks of similar price for quicker processing, I spent more time queuing than actually browsing:

Some had heavy duty trolleys to carry the boxes of books they chose:

Marketing trolley, usually filled with chicken, onions and vegetables, now filled with food for thought instead:

I left RM150 poorer, but many books richer.

Fiction, both hardcover and paperback - RM8 each only:

Jamie came home with me for RM25:

Lots of Hobby and Craft books for RM10-12 each:

Business related books and Biographies for RM12 each.

And a collection of Commercial Creative Designs for RM15.

Happee. Happee.

128 Faubourg by Sothy's @Empire Gallery, Subang Jaya

2011-09-14T17:42:00.001+08:00

The Ambience
While some beauty salons look like a clinic, this place resembles a hotel - cosy and intimate. Once you are in the treatment room, you're shut off from the outside. The changing and vanity area are en suite. The door only opens when your beautician enters and exits the room. No irrelevant persons walking in and out the treatment room.

Warm lighting is used to enhance the bronze curtains and add to the cosiness of the room. The wrap you change into and the towels that line the treatment bed are softer, and the blanket is heavier...like in a hotel.

Consultation
While we prefer salons that are less pushy, the beautician I consulted with doesn't push at all. A more structured consultation providing volunteered information would have been better instead of me needing to ask for it.

Nonetheless, I like that she didn't exclaim how bad my skin was or pulled out 'high-tech' equipment to illustrate to me, the person who knows my own skin best, how badly I needed their treatment. Instead, her approach was to address any concern I had about my skin, whether lacking hydration, wrinkles, congestion and so forth.

We finally decided that I should try the Hydroptimale Intensive Treatment, to infuse my dehydrated skin with much need moisture.

Treatment
The Hydroptimale Treatment is suppose to be the first step to 'soften' my skin allowing for easier subsequent extraction of pore plugs (read: future facials)

Step 1
After changing into the wrap, there is a brief soaking in a warm foot bath.

Step 2

Inhaling of essential oil aroma which the beautician then uses for a preliminary face massage.

Cleanse and exfoliate

Step 3
Steam for 1-2 minutes (only).

Step 4
Extraction.

This beautician was exceptionally good at extracting without much pain. She focused on removing the plugs that were most deep and apparently 'been there for a long time'.

Followed by antiseptic lotion.

Step 5
Eyebrow trimming (I felt mine was overtrimmed. Must remember next time to inform them that I like thicker brows).

Step 6
Shoulder and face massage. This lasted for about 15 minutes. Ah, bliss! Their massage is suppose to be their signature methodolgy, merging Eastern and Western philosophies.

Step 7
A layer of mask, gauze and more mask.

Step 8
Marinate for about 10 minutes, during which I dozed off because the room was so quiet.

Before the beautician leaves the room, I can hear her cleaning up the room.

Step 9
Quick massage of the feet (perhaps to wake up sleeping clients). Removal of mask and followed by application of more serum/cream.

A quick thumping of the shoulders with a warm towel draped across.

I was pleased to 'wake up to' a clean and tidy treatment room. Overall, the treatment was shorter and simpler than other facials I've experienced.

Package, Product, Price

Their services and products are generally more expensive that other places, ranging from RM220-450. My treatment was RM390 (first trial:RM280).

They use Sothy's products which is a French brand.

There are several packages:

RM1280 redeemable in service, and includes RM800 worth of products. That would allow for about 3-5 facials, depending on which treatment is required for the skin condition. On your birthday, you would get an additional RM200 credit for service.

Buy any 3 facials worth RM390 and above and get free eye and neck treatment.

RM580 for basic skincare products set (milk cleanser+foaming cleanser+toner+moisturiser) and two facial vouchers worth RM200 each, redeemable for facials worth RM260 and above, topping up the excess each time with cash.

I bought the skincare product package, because I didn't want to commit yet but I was on the lookout for new products to try. The original price for the products would have been about RM660. If I redeem facials worth about RM260-290, making up for the difference, I would 'save' about 40% from the total original price of the services and products. Yes, I'm very 'auntie' and meticulous about how much money I can save when buying things.

Verdict
I love the exclusiveness and privacy of 128 Faubourg. Overall, the treatment seems very simple for the price paid, however, the effect is good (my skin is much better, minus the usual red marks post-facial), which is most important.

The products and steps for problem skin are relatively simpler compared to Dermalogica's recommendation.

The most obvious drawback is...the price, of course. But beauty and luxury are...priceless?

Grandfather stories and vanishing skill

2011-08-30T22:52:00.002+08:00

A conversation with Xearthed.

Me : I'm reading a book that talks about the caste system. Did you know that even among the Untouchables, they are further divided into hierarchies. Like the guy who collects sh*t is lower than the guy who skins animals to make leather.

X : Yeah, I know.

Me : Do you know what caste your ancestors were?

X : I think Brahmins.

Me : Wow. The highest. You were the ones who looked down on others.

X : (doesn't rise up to my taunt) Yeah. My grandfather was a doctor. There were too many doctors in India, so he came to find better opportunities here.

Me : Wow. Your grandfather was a doctor. My grandfather spayed pigs for a living.

The sardonicism is not serious. I'm actually very proud that my grandfather had such an interesting job. It was a unique skill back then, being able to spay pigs and chickens to make them become fat and juicy. The procedure was relatively bloodless and extremely simple to experienced hands. Just minor incisions were made and in the case of the chickens, a feather was used to fuse the cut skin back together. According to my mum, it was a lucrative and much sought after skill. My grandfather came home sometimes with pockets bulging with money (which my grandmother wisely invested).

It is a skill that has now vanished or is vanishing (like traditional incense making). I suppose they now get veterinarians to spay the livestock, engineer breeds that are naturally plump or just pump them full of chemicals. I would love to compile a book on careers in Malaya during the diaspora days. Now, I only need to find someone to sponsor me...

Just a pretty column @Sunway Pyramid? Look closer

2011-08-21T22:13:00.000+08:00

Do you see it?

Come closer.

Take another look.

Did you see it?

Come closer.

Any guy would love to plug that socket.

The Local Expat Club

2011-08-16T12:51:00.001+08:00

The same bunch of slanted eyes and hairy chests who formed The Local Expat Club that does nothing much, except gossip and giggle, got together again. As before, we were strongly convinced that the Local Expat idea is great.

With our syok sendiri mindset, we now have a logo:

An FB page:

http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Local-Expat-Club/179640805440036

And even designs for an upcoming T-shirt:

A Tribute to the Heros of Bersih 2.0, 9 July 2011

2011-07-11T17:28:00.000+08:00

Why we need reform, and the ones who need it the most are the ones who might not know it.

2011-07-11T13:49:00.000+08:00

Those of us who live comfortably might not understand why the country needs reform.

The situation is akin to a time when there were landowners and serfs. No matter how rich the land and how abundant the harvest, only the landowners reaped the benefits. The serfs live their whole lives toiling in labour and living only to survive day to day. They knew not that life can be better, that all humans have equal rights to resources and comforts, for they do not know what they do not know.

Back to the present, imagine yourself in the shoes of those who live in the rural areas without access to modern infrastructure, those who work as clerks, drivers, cashiers whose max earning is RM1200/month, those who have not been brought up to wonder whether this is right, those who can't afford better education.

These people are more severely affected than the middle class each time petrol n sugar increases in price. They have no choice but to use public transport that is never on time and packed. They do not have the upbringing or education to elevate themselves to a higher standard of living.

They are resorted to piling their family of 7 or 8 into one small kancil, or riding with two adults and two children on a motorbike. They can only afford the simplest food to fill their belly. They do not have access to the internet which I argue is a necessity in today's world, otherwise you'd be severely left behind. They are resorted to living in debt to enjoy a modicum of pleasure.

Comfort is a luxury. True luxury is unattainable.

A friend who works in a rural hospital in Perlis says that some of the girls get pregnant without knowing how they arrived at that state, that underaged girls are being married off to old men, that come election time they are appeased with the gift of a cow. And though it is not any one's right to question cultural practices, I believe they at least deserve to know that there are other options and make informed decisions.

The sad fact is, these 'modern serfs' make up the majority of the rakyat. If you were oppressed and did not know it or don't have the knowledge to help yourself, wouldn't you wish someone who could...would.

I would.

I Love Four Men At the Same Time

2011-07-07T00:55:00.001+08:00

I'm in love with four men...

JEAN LUC PICARD

For his firm yet not unfeeling way in leading his crew.

For holding on to his principles and always considering the far-reaching consequences.

For putting the safety of his crew first.

For allowing cracks to occasionally show through his tough demeanour.

For being intelligent. For daring to make the hard decisions.

For his bald head, the way he says "Make it so" and "Engage" and for drinking "Earl Gray Tea, Hot."

DATA

For being able to compute tons of information in milliseconds.

For his naive approach in searching for his humanity.

For always missing the mark in interpreting human behaviour.

For always trying to do the right thing.

For the way he says "Curious", "Perhaps" and "Intriguing".

For his pale skin and yellow eyes.

PATRICK STEWART

For being a brilliant actor

For his voice, diction and elocution.

For his sexy bald head.

For being the sexy man he is.

For aging so gracefully.

BRENT SPINER

For being a great method actor.
He played Data and other related characters so well.
When Data puts on different personalities, or meets his brother, Lore, and creator, Dr Soong, all played by him, Spiner always manages to create a different character with different mannerisms.

For being a really funny guy.
I've watched several of his comic con interviews.

For being able to sing so well!
He's recorded two albums, mostly jazz and ol' time pop standards, which is right up my alley.

I'm a revived Star Trek fan after going through a marathon with the Enterprise and Voyager series. I've been falling asleep to Star Trek and dreaming about them. It's amazing that they are still relevant today, and holds so much lesson about life, politics and humanities. More about what I've learnt from them soon...just so I can justify to myself why I have spent so so many hours, awake and asleep, on them.

I finally got a pair of Tiamo Ballet Slippers

2011-06-09T23:36:00.002+08:00

After loving Tiamo shoes from afar for a few month now, I finally allowed myself to get a pair of their trademark ballet flats.

My current flats which I wear to meet clients were getting worn out and they were really not meant for walking...as my friend Adelene says, one can justify buying anything if one wants to.

So, with my feet in pain from the old shoe after walking for two hours in Sunway Pyramid, by chance I neared Tiamo and was reminded that I had seen their Sale ad on their Facebook page.

Happily, as I browsed, I realised that the sale this time around was much nicer than the last. More than half the shoe designs were at 50% off. Many pretty ones too, not just the fugly ones that no one wants to be caught dead in.

The sales person (if I recall correctly, her name was Angeline) was so personable, friendly and gave sincere input on the pairs I tried, unlike most salesgirl who only know how to say "Prettee! Prettee! You should buy!".

After scattering shoes all over their floor from trying many pairs, I finally bought this one for it's simple, yet unique pastel green colour, and feminine frill peeking out:

Angeline said this pair had a unique color compared to the more common pink option "It can be seen as green, and yet...it's almost like turquoise," she said, her dimples showing as she smiled (Dimples are just the sweetest features to have!). The pair displayed was the last, so Angeline voluntarily helped me wipe down the shoes with an antibacterial cleaner and trimmed off stray thread.

Orginal prices: RM139.00. Discounted price: RM69.60

And the lovely ribbony box it came it completed the ballerina impression. The shoe box did not come with a cover, but slipped snugly into a paper bag, with a long pink ribbon as the sling.

I believe this is the beginning of my shoe affair with Tiamo.

I'll give ya what you're looking for

2011-05-26T00:32:00.001+08:00

I realised that many people stumble upon my blog because they googled

"naked malaysian girl"

or something similar.

So if it's a naked Malaysian chick you wanna see...

...

a naked Malaysian chick is what I'll give ya...

...

....

(keep scrolling)

...

....

you'll get that, baby

....

...

....

...

I promise you, it's worth it

...

....

...

....

oh yeah, you're close

...

HOT MALAYSIAN CHICK, OR WHAT?!

Why Key Ng should make me its spokesperson, let me count the ways

2011-05-20T19:08:00.002+08:00

TANGS @Empire Gallery's

dressing room has nice hanger 'dock'

T Joule's V Neck Dress

with pleated waist

TANGS is having a sale now and there's nothing I enjoy more than a couple of hours trying on clothes, camwhoring in the dressing room and buying nothing. Which led me to a new campaign I am running...

I like to support Malaysian business and products, and buy barang buatan tempatan if I can. Though we lack quality production in this country, I loudly laud good local things when I discover any. It's what we Malaysians must do to encourage our country's development.

And that is why Key Ng should appoint me as its spokesperson and give me free clothes (yes, it's a sad attempt that will not see any success, but I must put it out there so I can fall asleep easier tonight).

1) I frequent its outlets and have quite a number of pieces from them which I consider my favourites

2) My mother, sister and boyfriend also shops at Key Ng

3) I promote it to tourists who seek shopping tips for Malaysian designer brands

4) I love the designs as it is structured yet have unique lines. It has both pieces that can show off curvy shapes for moi as well as for slender figures like my sister's.

5) My boyfriend looks damn good in Key Ng's shirts.

6) I can (sometimes) recognize a Key Ng piece without seeing the label

7) It's an affordable brand (only RM80-RM200) for the stylish urban citzen that wants to portray a successful and well groomed outlook without overdrawing his/her account and then weeping silently behind closed doors.

Is my case strong enough? Guess not, huh. Ah well.

Key Ng's White Lace Dress with Blue Underlining

Key Ng's long sleeve structured dress

Key Ng's toga inspired dress with braided belt
This is my favourite today but I couldn't decide between M size (above) which looks relaxed or...

A size smaller which immediately transforms it into a 'come hither' dress

Or the green version if one is not into the Grecian look

Self-Diagnosis

2011-05-20T12:01:00.000+08:00

Lost World of Tambun Hot Springs

2011-05-16T23:32:00.002+08:00

The Tambun Hot Springs are part of the Lost World Theme Park that was just across the road from the hotel. Entry to the hot spring pools only, if you're not much of a theme park thrill seeker, is only RM15.

The water flows in from a natural source and is channeled to several pools of varying temperature, from a comfortable toasty 37 degree celcius to a sweltering 43 degrees. I like cooking myself in hot water despite the tropical Malaysian weather, a fact I myself cannot comprehend.

The central and most popular pool was the Crystal Pool, with several stone tigers standing erect on a center platform, not merely posing aimlessly, but with the mineral laden natural waters being jetsprayed through their mouths. Bathers stand underneath for a mighty massage. And I mean mighty. I underestimated the strength of the water, and felt my teeth chatter as I attempted to let the spray knead the backache out of me. For the unprepared, I can imagine one can accidentally bite his tongue.

A pool suitable for young children lies elevated above the Crystal Pool, with a light cascading waterfall that would amuse them to no end. It is a great viewing point for the hourly geyser that shoots from a man made hill. Somewhere near the top of the hill is the...well, Top of the World Jacuzzi Pool. It's the hottest pool, made even hotter by the bubbling effect. This had to be my favourite pool, because I enjoyed it alone and, well, as I said I like to cook myself. The hotter pools tend to be quieter as not everyone is demented. I dared not stay too long because if I fainted from dipping too long in sulfuric water, no one would know.

Or so I thought. Until I noticed the lifeguard area had monitors that scoped out the whole area.

The Foot Spa area was really a shallow moat that surrounded a small island structure. At the base of the moat were protruding pebbles. Quite simply, one can walk around the island wincing from the pain in the name of health. Or as most of the people opted to do, sit on the edge and soak their feet.

The Infinity Pool lies on the edge of the area, and immediately envelopes bathers in an atmosphere of calm and relaxation with its turquoise reflection. One can swim right up to the bar and sip drinks while absorbing all the goodness of the spring water. Across the bar is a dodgy looking entrance into the cave that was enclosed in a curtain of water. Braving through the vertical torrent, I happily found myself in the Steam Cave that is very much similar to a wet sauna but with a cave-like surrounding and steam infused with natural minerals. Stoney seats had been fashioned against the wall.

I was there during the night, which was wonderful as I could soak without worrying about sunburn. But I can imagine if I was there during a not so sunny daytime, it's would be lovely to bath while seeing the limestone hills that overlook the park.

Now, if only I can shoo noisy bathers away and enjoy it with mute people only....

Here's the Lost World of Tambun's Hot Spring site again if you wanna read what they 'officially' say about themselves.

Trip to Ipoh - Lost World of Tambun Hotel

2011-05-15T20:54:00.002+08:00

Although I identify myself as a Penangite and Subang-ian, I sometimes evoke the fact that I am born in Ipoh whenever someone points out that Ipoh harvests the prettiest girls.

Twenty something years ago, in a small medical facility called Hospital Fatimah, a healthy baby girl was born. The story that my siblings insist follows is that there was a mix-up and a Malay baby was given to them, and their biological sister is somewhere still wondering why she is fairer than the rest of the family.

We left Ipoh after I was one. After that, I hardly ever returned to Ipoh except passing by on the way to Penang. This weekend, however, my family (or are they?) finally stayed the night in the state of my birth. All because Sunway's Lost World of Tambun Hotel was offering a promotion of RM150 per night including entrance to their Lost World Hot Springs (Normal price RM15).

The Hotel is a three-star accommodation located across the road from the Lost World of Tambun Theme Park. Fairly new, with a second phase still under construction, the decor is very much similar to the rest of Sunway's developments (S.Pyramid, offices, SunMed...), with an orange and white scheme, and light brown wood fittings.

The room was wide, bigger than most Hotel rooms in Kuala Lumpur, with simple planning to maximize the sense of spaciousness. I'll explain soon.

Here's a reflection of the bed area in the mirror above the luggage table while I was standing in the bathroom doorway. It was the only way to fit the whole perspective into one image. Clever, I am:

A cot for my niece that had baby bolsters and pillow

L: An apt picture of a lake in Tambun above the bed
R: Narrow table with hanging flat screen TV to maximise space

Beverage amenities - awesome blue glowing kettle, and their own Lost World brand of Ipoh White Coffee and Milk Tea

L: Luggage table with mirror.
Would have preferred a full length mirror.
A girl needs to know how she looks like from head to toe.
See, my knees are cut off. What if my calves looked awful?!
R: Wardrobe area with a curtain door, instead of cumbersome wooden doors.
Again, helping to maximise space.

Toiletries in a nifty ziplock bag.
Perfect for just throwing into your bag to use at the theme park, or for ~~stealing~~ taking it home.

And the best part of it all. The view of the limestone hills that frame the entire Lost World development.

Serene. Calming. Ooohmmm.

We cooked ourselves later that night in the Hot Springs. More on that tomorrow!

Here's the Sunway's Lost World of Tambun Hotel Website again if you wanna book your stay.

I've given myself the day off because It's My Birthday

2011-05-05T11:01:00.000+08:00

My out of office email autoresponder message:

Today, 5th of May, I turn 25 years old for the fourth time. To celebrate the person I've become, I'm giving myself the day off.

I will cease this self lauding tomorrow and reply to your email promptly then. If there are such urgent matters that supersede the importance of my birthday or if you would like to contact me to wish me Happy Birthday, please call +6012 XXX XXXX.

Osama is Dead, but Terrorism is Not

2011-05-03T17:05:00.000+08:00

Obama makes an official announcement "...the United States has conducted an operation that killed Osama bin Laden, the leader of al Qaeda, and a terrorist who's responsible for the murder of thousands of innocent men, women, and children." Americans and many around the world rejoices.

I put aside my deciphering of his choice of words, the secondary message between the lines for guiding opinion. Instead, I ponder again on the question of whether we as mere mortals have the right to decide whether one should live or die. Is it ever right to be happy that someone was killed, no matter how much pain and suffering that person has and will cause?

Perhaps my belief that there is a higher being in the afterlife who will judge our actions makes me think twice.

Perhaps I am too far removed from the events of September 11, as I am relatively untouched in my country.

But I admit I'm taken aback by the gleeful cheers and joyous celebrations. The death of Osama may bring closure to those whose lives were altered by Al-Qaeda, but the journey is long before terrorism itself is brought to an end. For every Osama that dies, there is another one or more in the making. Is the root of terrorism Osama? He many have been one of the peripheral roots, but there are many more to be examined...not necessarily in the form of people, but situations, power play, human greed and thirst for power and wealth, and their disillusions. Terrorism cannot be solved by mere military play, for it is borne from a complex amalgam of economical, sociological and anthropological factors.

I do not mourn that Osama is dead. I do not rejoice. I am worried. I believe that our troubles are far from over, and judging from the public perception that Osama's death is a significant milestone in curbing terrorism, I'm scared that we are looking for solutions in all the wrong places.

Old Clothes is now New Clothes

2011-04-19T00:40:00.000+08:00

I have a maxi silver skirt that I owned since my teens. I thought it was oh-so-glamourous back then to own a long, A-line, satiny skirt.

Then I grew out of that thought and forgot it was in my wardrobe.

Now I want to wear it again because I only wore it once before.

But I want to wear it differently now.

How?

I thought maybe to pair it with my traditional costume tops (Does it work, Su?).

I do have a kebaya top from my grandma (it's in my mum's cupboard so I wonder whether it's still mine or was it never mine at all and I just imagined it), but I wonder whether it might insult my grandma's kebaya (what do you think, Su?)

Aglio Olio @Dome and @Skewers, Subang Jaya

2011-04-15T02:30:00.001+08:00

This is a sad representation of aglio olio:

Dome's version of Aglio Olio

It may look nice, but all you get is mouthfuls of chili flakes taste. Not cheap either.

Skewers's Aglio Olio shows promise

On Skewers menu, it simply states Bowl of Pasta for RM15 (TBC, can't remember the price exactly). They offered two preparation styles - carbonara or aglio olio. My greedy friends and gluttony I ordered one of each. The carbonara is 'delish' but my focus is the other. I was pleased that the dish arrived with only a few leaves of vegetables and the other usual condiment of chilli flakes - that's as it should be, sans meat.

The chef managed to achieve the right balance of saltiness and spiciness. Very light dish that could go with a side order of their skewered meat but can very well stand on its own as a simple meal.

To digress, I've been patronising Skewers often lately, bringing different group of friends with me. It is mostly because of the location - Subang Jaya is the nearest civilisation to Shah Alam. And then there's the good food at affordable prices. But perhaps even more important that all of that is their big glasses of sangria laced generously with wine at only RM16++ each. I might set off on a search for the best sangria after this.

Thai Lemongrass Chicken Sandwich and Red Sangria

Hailam Kopitiam @Shah Alam - Recommended for Local Expats

2011-04-13T16:39:00.001+08:00

I'm writing an impromptu entry about this as I'm wolfing down my lunner (a cross between lunch and dinner) at Hailam Kopitiam @Shah Alam.

I brought my laptop to complete some work after eating, but I received such good customer service to add to the culmunation of good things about this place, that I itched to blog about it.

Hailam Chicken Chop with a choice of Original/Black Pepper/Mushroom/Rendang,
One of these always has Xearthed's name on it

Hailam Kopitiam is my usual haunt because it's near the lake (read: containment pond) that Xearthed and I go for our evening jogs. After three to four rounds of panting and dragging ourselves around the lake (read:containment pond), Xearthed swears that there's a chicken chop with his name on it in this food outlet (I checked each time to no avail, but he says that the sauce has covered the etchings). The chicken chop is so big that it can cover my whole face and then some. With a choice of four sauces, my favourite is the rendang sauce. Rendang seems to work in any Western-Malaysian fusion dishes.

For once, the actual dishes look more appetizing and are bigger in portion than the illustrations on the menu.

Sambal with Oomph, served with crispy Roti Planta

Another dish worth noting is their roti planta set that come with chicken curry with or without the chicken meat (different price, of course). Alongside is the crown of the set, which is the sambal. Unlike other sambal which has more onions than ikan bilis, this sambal has ikan in each bite. And perhaps it's the amount of spices they put into it, but for lack of a better word, this sambal has oomph.

Back to the incidents that prompted me to write this entry.

I had laid my laptop to the side of the table and was perusing the menu. For the first time I noticed their tagline "Coffee so strong that it'll wake the neighbours" which I though was quite funny although illogical. Anything that says 'strong coffee' can't go wrong by me.

As I was making my order of meehoon soup, the supervisor approached me with a power plug.

"Miss, you want to use your laptop?" he asked in perfect English with a hint of an exotic accent. I can't tell whether he's Malay or Burmese.

"Please use this. The plug (in your booth) is loose," he explained.

Polite, observant and has initiative! Just when I was confident that any good customer service in Malaysia has been dragged to depths of non existance.

That was not all. When the waiter (whom I'm sure is foreign) served my noodles, he kept making furtive glances at me. I tugged my blouse up which collarline was threatening to fall below modesty levels. As I unraveled the fork and spoon from the tissue, the waiter returned with chopsticks and a soup spoon. I realised he was trying to determine whether I was Chinese without outright staring at me (yes, it can be hard to make out what race I am sometimes) and deduced I might prefer to eat with Chinese utensils. Clever!

And when I finished, toothpicks magically found its way to my table.

Even hotels I've been to have not had the common sense that the staff of Hailam Kopitiam @Shah Alam has. How unexpected it was to find good customer service in Shah Alam and in a modest food outlet. Good customer service and value for money items can still be found in our country. We just need to know where to look.

UPDATE @5.25PM:
I merely looked through the food tab (the piece of paper to tick our orders on) because I wanted to order another drink, and the waiter appears with a menu! Note to self: Do not scratch butt or pick teeth. THEY ARE WATCHING.

UPDATE @5.48PM:
I took out my pashmina to cover myself. One of the waiters got hold of the air con remote and tried to direct the draft away from me. They're so observant and have such good common sense that I'm blown away!

In Case of a Nuclear Plant Meltdown in Malaysia, I've got my Emergency Plan

2011-04-05T02:03:00.000+08:00

Despite the events in Japan, and the common sense that if Japan couldn't avoid a meltdown, Malaysia most definitely would fare worse in handling a nuclear crisis, it seems that the government is still keen on building a nuclear plant.

With devastating radioactive arms being able to reach up to 500km, we are doomed.

From the top to tip of Peninsula Malaysia, I estimate that the distance is about 800km?

So unless they decide to build the plant somewhere near the ends of the peninsula, we have no where to run.

Hence, to be safe than sorry, and the common sense of people in government highly questionable, I've hatched my escape plan.

(click on images for larger view)

Local Expats Club Malaysia

2011-04-01T02:30:00.000+08:00

Don't get me wrong. I love my country. I even have the country's name in my blog title. That's why it pains me more when I see the wrongs committed that will bring my country down.

My friends and I had an in depth conversation last Sunday at Skewers, Subang Jaya about the well-worn, reused and beaten out topic of being Chinese and Indians in Malaysia.

Perhaps it was because we were drinking. We were talking loudly, undiplomatically in a public place, crying foul about the 7% discount we're not given for property purchase, education scholarships we do not qualify for because of the colour of our skin and the possibility of migration since we're treated like outsiders anyhow.

1Malaysia has been from the beginning, a hollow declaration with no substance. A nagging repetition. A coercion. There is not going to be a 1Malaysia until we are treated the same. Unless their (read:Barisan) idea of becoming one is the non-Bumis becoming...Malay (read: Muslims).

Despite Ketuanan Melayu being in place for decades, the majority of Malays are still living in poverty and lacking knowledge (not just basic education, but an understanding of how the world outside their kampung works). The division of wealth still lay heavily on the elite minority, who keep the majority uneducated so that they'll continue voting them in government, appeased by the building of a new tar road or gift of cow near election time. Why is our internet penetration still hovering slightly above 50% only? It was not much less five years ago. Is it because they are afraid that with uncontrolled uncensored information reaching the masses, they'd loose their grip on the votes? That 'green packets' would not suffice to make the people tick the box next to their logo? Racism aside, the continued neglect of creating smarter citizens will lead to our entire country's stagnant development (Singapore is always ahead, Vietnam and Cambodia are catching up).

Shungz shared his father's sage advice "Son, if you want to remain in this country, just imagine that you're just a tourist or passer-by" which led to him imagining himself to be an expatriate.

"I'm a Local Expat!" he declared.

"Hear hear!" we chimed.

The Local Expats Club was formed after we who were at the table contributed excitedly to this novel idea.

"Third class citizen, First Class Lifestyle" Shungz coined the tagline, riding the sudden wave of creativity.

Local expats are defined as Malaysians who are treated as foreigners, but we will not gnash our teeth and wave our fists, but remain cool and collected, enjoying all the best that money, wit and intelligence can afford us.

Complaining about the specific horrendous customer service experiences we had to suffer locally to the superb professional ones in developed country, we came to our first resolution contributed by Xearthed, worded by Vijay:

"Thou shall threaten the use of a certain Consumers Tribunal (Toll Free No:1-800-88-9811) in the face of shoddy customer service to ensure said 1st class lifestyle"

We believe, in our naivety, that this will help us be happier Malaysians while hoping that in our lifetime, we will see a truly One Malaysia, where when people ask us what race we are, we can proudly and simply say "Malaysians".

Leadership by Example? snort sniff

2011-04-01T01:18:00.000+08:00

While on the road recently, I saw a police car in my rearview mirror. The police behind the wheel had one hand held up to his ear while his lips was moving. He was talking on his handphone.

Xearthed says I should perform a Citizen's Arrest. Interesting scene it would be if I did, since a Citizen's Arrest requires me to bring the offender to the nearest police officer or station.

Which means...

I would have had to stop the police car behind me, arrest the police who was driving while talking on the handphone and turn him in to his partner who was sitting in the passenger seat.

"Encik Polis, saya tangkap polis ni guna handphone bila bawak kereta...saksi? You kan kat sebelah dia? Tak nampak ke, Encik Polis? Mungkin you dah tua, mata tak bagus sangat. Baik bersara"

Incidentally, if you type into Google "Polis Malaysia", the second search suggestion is "polis malaysia bodoh" and the fouth is "polis malaysia gay".

And I remember a police sergeant once said to me about adultery "Okay what. Lelaki kat luar ada perempuan memang biasa." That tells me all I need to know about his morals.

If low salary is the reason for accepting bribes, then what's is the excuse for their other misbehaviour and lack of moral judgement?

As Shungz says, we must imagine that we are expatriates or tourists in this country...to keep our sanity.

Tribe Still Untouched by the World Outside

2011-03-27T16:07:00.000+08:00

Surreal.

I've always wondered whether somewhere on God's earth, is there a living tribe that has carried on for centuries without being aware of the development of modern civilisation? Somewhere, the thick forests could have concealed and prevented them from other humans for all this time? To them, their world is made up of a small village, the population a minute number of tribes member...and that is the end all and be all of their knowledge and existence.

And finally I have my answer. A small tribe still lives in the jungles of Peru. They look up wondering at the mighty bird flying in the sky, featherless and almighty for it can fly without flapping its wings. It's a god, they must think.

No contact has been made with the tribe yet, for fear of tainting their purity and cursing them with diseases of the modern word. A common cold could kill them, for the often taken-for-granted viruses brushed aside by us and only remembered whenever inconvenienced by runny noses is to their unaccustomed immune system, a deadly assassin.

On the other hand, they might be strong against other viruses that they've grown to fight from the years living in nature. After all, killers like the HIV virus is believed to have jumped to man from wild African monkeys. We may presume that there is an overwhelming enlightening we have to bestow upon them, but we have to realise that they may have knowledge to teach us too.

Surreal. If there is one such tribe...there must be more.

To read more on them, go to Uncontacted Tribes.

Audrey Hepburn Mimic + Ballet Shoes from Tiamo, Sunway Pyramid

2011-03-27T03:59:00.000+08:00

The bicycle is classy.

The dog is classy.

Even the basket is classy.

All because Audrey Hepburn is in the picture.

Every so often, any girl gets bitten by the Audrey Hepburn bug and attempts to mimic her hair, clothes, shoes, stance...

Who are we kidding? Her greatness lay in her and it was she that made all the outer garments, accessories and hairdo become...classy.

Ah, but we never learn:

My MANGO lacy blouse with a narrow nipped in waistband, paired with three quarter tights, and a cheap chic bag.

What I need to complete the look are these:

Baby blue ballerina flats with embossed ribbon pattern from Tiamo, spotted at their Sunway Pyramid window display

I gasped (this time sincerely, as opposed to other times I'm intentionally being dramatic) when I spotted these shoes at Tiamo's window display at their Sunway Pyramid outlet. Ribbons I have seen many, but embossed ones is a first. It was past 10pm and the plastic shutters were already shut as tight as a man's mouth with gold in it. The torture! The agony! Why did I have to see but not be able to touch them, merely paw at the window gazing longingly. Sure, I have banned myself from spending money for now, but one must be able to caress such beauties, try them on and unabashedly take photos of ones feet in them while the salesperson pretends s/he is not turned off by.

I'm going to wear them tonight in my dreams, while i flit on a ballroom floor made of clouds and my skirt twirls like fabric pinwheels turning so fast that they merge into one single colour....It's a dream, it doesn't have to make sense.

PS: The store is having a Sale up to 50% discount this weekend only.

Almost Aglio Olio + PORK @Crafts Brew, Mutiara Damansara

2011-03-27T03:28:00.000+08:00

They don't call it aglio olio, but it sure comes close.

I was at Crafts Brew again recently, but not for the reasons that most patrons patronise them. Instead of enjoying their myriad of unique beer brews during rowdy tipsy happy hours, I was there during lunch hour for their set lunch...again.

Now their Pork Bangers Pasta have been entered into my own crusade to seek out the best aglio olio, which epic outcome is interested only by me and judged by me and no prizes for the winners.

Another worthy competitor, but still largely dependent on the meat (PORK sausages...I love saying that...POOORRRRK) for flavour. Rather spicy from the heavy dose of chilli flakes and on the salty side with credit to the sausage slices.

Yes, a good meal, but I doubt champion material.

Unexpected Wisdom

2011-03-21T23:35:00.000+08:00

The quote of Edison - Genius is one percent inspiration and 99% perspiration - is well known, used often and even painted as a mural on the wall of my secondary school years ago.

I chanced upon a wise but not popular quote from Nikola Tesla's, another inventor who contributed much yet seldom exalted like his counterpart, and seemed to be in response to Edison's words:
If Edison had a needle to find in a haystack, he would proceed at once with the diligence of the bee to examine straw after straw until he found the object of his search. I was a sorry witness of such doings, knowing that a little theory and calculation would have saved him ninety per cent of his labor.

Life lessons are there for learning everyday, everywhere. There was a time when I was left alone in my sister's house for many days and nights (I reside with my sister...long story). She reminded me to be vigilant, lock all the doors and checked if I had remembered to pay the security fee for the guards.

I confess, it was prejudiced of me, and I was painting stereotypes. I had remarked, "There's construction in progress nearby and many foreign workers loitering around."

My dad voiced out, "That's nothing to worry about. They won't shit where they eat."

That phrase echoes in my head every time I jog pass the foreign construction worker. It is wise that if one wants to commit felony, cheat, siphon out money (these are not my point) or take risks, break rules, experiment (these are), it should not be with one's rice bowl.

I learned even while hiking in the highlands of Sapa, Hanoi, a few years ago while on holiday. Many young pedlars would follow the tourists on their hiking trail. They did not pester us throughout, but patiently wait till the end of the hike. One particularly sweet girl, no more than 12 years of age, had even helped me on the slippery and steep slopes.

At the end of the hike, I fully intended to buy one of her handmade wares but I do not budge easily when it comes to bargaining.

"15 000 dong!" she put out the first price to start the bargaining dance.

"8 000 dong," I countered.

"Okay, I give you 13 000 dong," she said.

"No, 8 000".

"12 500, okay?"

"8..thou...sand"

Her friend, another young and skinnier pedlar girl, chimed in "No. You must go up! She come down, you go up! You meet middle middle!"

I laughed and conceded to unarguable reasoning from the cute native girl. I bought the purse for 10 000 dong.

In life it is almost impossible to please everyone in anything. The best way is to compromise and meet in the middle. Either party would have half the benefit and half the foul. Fair is fair.

The world contrives to teach us life lessons. It's a matter of whether we choose to open our eyes to see it, or to remain ignorant.

The Old Blossom Box Boutique

2011-03-17T19:00:00.000+08:00

I visited a boutique today in Shah Alam, called The Old Blossom Box Store selling quirky vintage inspired clothes and accessories.

The candy striped walls with antique toys and thingamabob decoration puts you in the right state of mind to browse in their shop. The selections are few, but there are many unique pieces. As the cliche goes, its quality not quantity that matter.

Even the sticker on the dressing room looks like it was printed in the 1950s.

I think I saw this on Etsy...hmm:

So...finally after several rounds in the fitting room...I decided on:-

A Kate Spade-ish pink and white blouse with a cut-out ribbon:

The uniqueness of the bow is that it is cut out from the outer layer and sewn onto the inner one:

A tea party dress with a huge bow across the bosom. The heavy bow makes this piece a standout. There was a pink version of this dress, which is more Barbie-like compared to this 'sunshine & picnic' one.

This I got for Su because we like prints of teacups, cupcakes and other quirky things. But after sending her the picture, I found out she doesn't wear sleeves like these. Oh no! So I guess I'm keeping it for myself:

Old Blossom Box is opened on weekdays at 1030am-7.30pm, and weekends 11.30am -7.00pm.
Location map is available on their blog.

PS: I've decided to stop updating my Malaysia Bimbo blog for now. It's tiring to maintain two blogs! So everything 'bimbo-related' will be featured here.

Aglio Olio @ D'Italiane Kitchen, Jaya 33

2011-03-13T00:26:00.000+08:00

I believe the quintessential pasta dish is the Aglio Olio.

It is the truest test, when one can use the simplest and cheapest ingredients to create a tantalizing meal.

The basic Aglio Olio uses only garlic, olive oil and chili flakes to season the spaghetti, yet each restaurant has managed to achieve varied success.

It is my all time favourite pasta dish to order, and hence I have sampled quite a few and will continue in my search for...the best Aglio Olio.

D'Italiane Kitchen's Spicy Beef Aglio Olio:

It's passable as an Aglio Olio. There were generous amounts of beef bacon that contributed to the flavour of the dish. The general taste depended largely on the meat instead of relying on the subtle aroma of the olive oil and garlic. Nonetheless, it makes a delicious meal especially for those who like bacon.

The best that I've had so far, and in a least expected place, is Delicious.

If you order Aglio Olio in Delicious, you'll be served a generous plate of spaghetti with the slightest sprinkling of chopped parsley and chili flakes crowned with a single bay leaf. If you've never ordered Aglio Olio before, you'd feel cheated by the simple presentation. But once you've taken a mouthful, you're transformed into the happiest diner in the restaurant. Somehow, they have managed to use just garlic and olive oil to flavour the pasta so masterfully. There's is not much to describe because its simplicity is its genius.

I hope to treat myself to another plate of Aglio Olio at Delicious soon and I'll remember to take pictures this time.

Search for the Best Facial - Leonard Drake

2011-03-10T13:36:00.000+08:00

I have decided to test out as many facial services as possible before settling down. After all, one doesn't commit to a marriage before dating around, why should I shelf out thousands of ringgit before committing facial polygamy.

Su recommended her facial place - Leonard Drake @Subang Parade.

This is the 'biggest' picture I could find online.

So I drove under threatening clouds and made it to Subang Parade before the rain plundered down. The things one do for beauty!

Ambience. The design is minimalistic, with white being used almost throughout. The storefront doubled as the consultation at one area, a counter on the other side and their retail products lining the walls across. Comfortable enough and portraying a clean facade so that I felt relaxed and confident in their service.

The treatments rooms were modest and could be improved with more design and aesthetic thought put into in (Minimalism can be made interesting too). There was a changing and vanity corner with lockers where I put away my things and changed into their white wrap. The treatment room I was led into had two bed in it. For friends who do facials together? Or they actually put two strangers together in the same room? I was glad that I was the only one.

I prefer individual rooms with a cabinet within to change and put my things. I thought at least the individual room I had could afford me some peace and quiet, but the door was left opened during the treatment and I could hear the neighbouring customer telling her life story (daughter is 17, son is 10 years older than his sister).

The ambience music was a few decibels too high, and although it was instrumental songs, it had too much 'oomph' to be relaxing.

Consultation. The lady who did the consultation for me was friendly, explained their services well and most importantly, NOT PUSHY (Thank you, Bowie). She referred to their standard questionnaire, asking valid questions about diet habits, supplements, whether I had plastic surgery (if I did, I'd have ~~bigger boobs~~ a smaller nose), whether I am claustrophobic, my threshold for pain, am I taking contraceptive pills and, very importantly, do I like the massage pressure to be firm (YES, VERY!). She also asked whether I am married, to which I asked why does that matter. It was because she was trying to determine whether I am trying to conceive. Once again, I find this indirect, supposedly more tactful way of asking such questions to be dangerously misleading. In today's society, one could be not married, but still sexually active and possibly pregnant.

Anyway, I digressed.

Then she used this briefcase sized machine with a black cloth to cover my face (like one of those vintage cameras) where she peered in from the other side. Using a special light and having me look into the mirror within, she showed me different coloured spots that lit up on my face to indicate the blackheads, whiteheads, scars, etc and map accordingly the problem areas. It was dreadful seeing how many spots there were even though I had expected it.

She forewarned me that although I did say I can only take moderate amount of pain (actually, I'm pretty good with pain, but I prefer without), to expect that the first time to be quite uncomfortable and will have fair amount of swelling and redness.

Treatment. I was recommended the Detox Treatment because I needed a thorough cleansing and clearing of all the impurities. For first time customers, I would have liked if they explained each step to me. Since they didn't voluntarily do so, during the third step, I piped up "What's this?" and the beautician (I can't remember the name of the girl who attended to me, sorry! She's very good!) took the cue and started to explain them. I suppose many customers tell them to don't bother, but I like to know in detail what I'm paying for.

Here's what I can recall, although probably inaccurate and missing a few, but somewhat close:

Step 1
Soft steam is blown onto the face from the beginning. Double cleansing

Step 2
Scrub

Step 3
A serum was spread across my face and shoulders and 'sucked' out by running a vacuum tube from center towards my armpits and ear lobes. It was for "clearing your lymph nodes" and loosening impurities. Then I'm left for 20minutes alone to get to know the steam machine.

Step 4
Extraction was made by another beautician, Jasmine. She was very thorough and gave me warning whenever she came to a 'problematic' clog. She said that my blackheads are stubborn (like me!). It wasn't the most painful extraction I've experienced though, so kudos to Jasmine.

Step 5
A pad on the end of a metal handle emitting the crackling sound of electricity is massaged over my face. I'm sightless (as they've covered my eyes with cotton pads) and it sounded like a tool used in a mental institution and I wonder maybe I should have been friendlier. She then said it was for antibacterial purposes especially since the extraction had been so intense. There was a prickling sensation as she ran the pad over my now sensitive skin and ants biting whenever she lingered over the more affected areas. Bearable, just unnerving.

Step 6
Cream on the eyes, and more serum on the face and shoulders followed by face and shoulder massage. As per my preference, very firm pressure and I'm transported to an elevated state of mind!

Step 7
A layer of mask, followed by a layer of gauze and then more mask for 'soothing the skin'.

Step 8
More shoulder massage and a head massage, during which small handfuls of hair is tugged lightly. Coo.
Then I'm left to marinate for about 30 minutes.

Step 9
The mask is removed and the face is cleaned. More serum and cream is spread on the face. And we're done!

I was surprised to find that three hours had passed since I first stepped into the centre.

Package, Products, Price. Their treatments range from RM200-400. The Detox Treatment I underwent was RM258 (50% for first trial, if recommended by another member).

The package price is RM1800, which is redeemable for RM1800 of service, RM200 of service on your birthday month and RM1000 in products. RM1800 + 200 would cover about eight facial for me since I'll be needing to repeat the Detox Treatment. There is a Refining treatment that costs RM198 but that is for less problematic skin.

Leonard Drake uses Dermalogica products.Taking into consideration the products they recommended for my daily face care, which included about 10 items, I would have to add on another RM600 to the RM1000 in the package.

When I said I would like to think about it, Bowie smiled very sweetly saying "no problem" and collected product samples for me to take home with a handwritten instruction. It's more complicated than making my brownie:

It'll last me for two washes and that's it. I know, give me an inch yet I ask for a mile right?

Verdict. Service is generally friendly and professional. The extraction is the most uncomfortable part, and since it was done thoroughly and not as painful as I've had before, this is an important plus point. The package is reasonable but the daily facial regime is too many and I don't have enough place on my vanity cabinet as it is.

I'll KIV Leonard Drake before saying "I Do".

Next: Adelene suggests Sothy's 128 Fauborg

I need Facial Sandpapering and Polishing

2011-03-07T21:22:00.000+08:00

I stopped going for facials about 10 months ago when I used up the package I bought, partly because it was no longer effective and partly because I did not want to part with my limited funds for vanity sake.

But really, your face is your glory. The way people treat you and make assumptions and decisions about you is largely dependent on your appearance. And since now I have to be my own salesperson for my freelance writing services, I need to be groomed.

It's no longer just for vanity sake.

I'm looking for a good facial service provider. Suggestions?

I Heart Gifts - Chapter 2

2011-03-07T00:55:00.000+08:00

I really am a lucky gal.

I've had another slew of gifts thrown my way.

Firstly, from Xearthed, a ~~17"~~ 19" LCD monitor, albeit second hand but functioning perfectly, to be hooked up to my half-alive Macbook. He laughs at me, saying "No one uses 15" monitors anymore!"

Secondly, he found this cute looking multi-USB port adapter from his mountain of free media giveaways. It's obvious from the logo who he got this from.

It folds up neatly into a mini stool or some might see it as a weird looking mushroom.

He says that now my Macbook's USB port need not be gang-banged anymore by my mouse, external hard disk, card reader, mp3 player and thumb drives. Now they can have an orgy instead!

Nicole came back from her travels with a bag of gifts for me too.

The Himalaya under-eye cream she bought from India which her colleagues swear works miracles. I really need this as my unnatural sleep pattern has caused havoc on the skin under my eyes. I'm not sure if it's available amongst the Himalaya range here, but if not and it really does work wonders, I'm booking a ticket to India on AirAsia.

"The best tea in Sri Lanka," she said. I love tea with scones or cakes. I'll make some before opening this tin.

And before she went to Cambodia, I asked her "Would... you... like to... buy this purse for me?" and whipped out my purse, the piece at the bottom of this image:

I had gotten in from Cambodia, and it looked Kate Spade-ish and expensive despite being only USD5.

And although she said she would not like to, she returned with the blue and red one for me.

I say it again, I really am a lucky gal.

Dark Haired Exotic Gypsy

2011-03-03T01:20:00.000+08:00

I've always wanted to look like Esmeralda from Hunchback of Notredame every since I watched that cartoon (which still is one of my favourite Disney cartoon, despite it being less popular and relatively dark storyline).

She had this bellowing dark hair with sexy curls. My hair is just bushy, tangled and fizzy.

Nonetheless....

This dark red ribbon helps me to 'feel' like I'm channeling Esmeralda even if it doesn't appear so to people around me.

I believe living in denial is half the battle to happiness.

Wedding Accessories

2011-02-28T11:16:00.000+08:00

I have weddings on my mind lately, because I have a couple of good friends getting weddin'.

So I've been playing with ribbons and coming up with multi-functional wedding accessories. I'm terribly absent-minded so I have to work doubly hard not to leave the needles lying around. So I do most of the work on my bed, where if anyone was to get injured, it would just be me and I won't feel so bad about that.

Let me introduce you to:

Grace and Kelly

Annie

Brigette

Audrey

The best thing about them is that they can be mounted on a comb, ring, pin, brooch, pendant, slipped through a belt, etc.

I've put them in my Etsy shop. I like the idea of my creations being a part of someone's special day. I need to find time to work on improving and promoting my online shop, but my time recently is taken up with my writing work. I'll get to it, I promise myself!

I Heart Baking

2011-02-17T16:47:00.000+08:00

I've never been much of a cook, but when it came to baking I get most of my cakes, cookies and muffins right.

Sometimes I'd get the itch to bake, just like an opium addict needs a hit.

Last night I whipped up a batch of cupcakes despite not having enough ingredients in the house. Driving to the nearby grocery store meant delaying the start of my baking, and that would not do.

And it turned out better than it ever had before, proving to myself that my gut gets it right 75% of the time (except when it comes to cooking meals).

I love almost every step of creating these sinful treats. From measuring, mixing, pouring, putting into the oven, the smell of baked butter and sugar that permeates the entire house, removing the tray and finally seeing the outcome...and then tasting the outcome.

What I do not like is the washing up (it's a wonderful thing that Xearthed loves washing up. I don't understand it, but I thank Cupid for that idiosyncrasy in him).

This particular recipe is an adaptation from the one I found on joyofbaking.com. The first time I tried it, it only made a batch of nine. Nine cupcakes is hardly enough of yummy chocolate goodness.

This time I doubled it with several tweaks of my own.

I dissolved one cup of Tudor Gold cocoa in two cups hot water and left it to cool. Next, I whisked: about three cups of flour with three teaspoon of baking powder, and scooped up most of the one tablespoon of salt I stupidly threw in instead of the one teaspoon required (so I do not know finally how much salt went in).

Next I handbeat half cup of butter, because that was all I had instead of the one cup required, with two cups of white granulated, adding in four eggs one at a time. And I usually handbeat because I'm to lazy to get out the electric mixer and then washing it after. This is where I was suppose to add four teaspoon of vanilla extract, and this is the ingredient I didn't have. I left it out hoping the quality cocoa would be sufficient flavour.

Then after mixing the dry mixture into the wet, I added about one cup of Hersheys semi-sweet chocolate chips. I would have liked to add more, but thats all I had.

Twenty minutes in the oven preheated at 190 degrees Celcius, and WA-LAH!

I could make 17 cupcakes this time, but they were bigger and much more dense than before. The maths do not quite add up (the missing one is not enough to contribute to the size and weight of the other cupcakes), but I'm no Dr. Sheldon Cooper, so never mind! They taste amazing, so rich and moist (see the moistness on the surface?) that I want to ~~make love to them.~~ sleep on a bed made out of them

Happy V Day - May everyone find someone to share their hearth

2011-02-09T16:31:00.000+08:00

Happy Chinese New Year

2011-01-31T02:49:00.000+08:00

I Heart Gifts

2011-01-29T18:32:00.000+08:00

Recently I remember how great my friends are.

I've been receiving gifts from them.

Not that they are great because they give me gifts.

But the gifts remind me that they are great.

I hope their generous mood abides.

Su bought feather earrings from Singapore for me. She remembered how much I like feathers.

The pale green feather is my favourite of the two because it makes me want to play with the water nymphs at the jade coloured waters of the Fairy Forest's magic pond. It's located at the wild country called Myimagination.

She got the earrings from SIX.

Adelene bought me a Victoria Secret Lip Gloss (the one on the left. Passionfruit colour, I think. The name is not on the label) from the US and later a Ted Baker eye shadow from the UK. The eye shadow was from a gift set of three, one for each her three girlfriends, and luckily we each wanted different colours.

I chose the violet colour - a far cry from my usual earthy preference - because I realised I needed more colour in my appearance for both wardrobe and makeup. The moment we snatched up the colour we wanted, I had a moment of regret, wondering if the shade of violet that seems to be in the cool colour spectrum wouldn't match my warmer skin tone.

But I made the right choice after all.

This is merely a test shot. If I add eye liner and mascara, my eye won't look like it had been bitten by an insect and became swollen.

And it is such a pity that there isn't a Victoria Secret outlet here! The lip gloss doesn't dry out my lips as others do, and its actually sweet to the taste! The second tube, called A Slice of Heaven, was given to me by Xearthed. He likes the taste too (No, he doesn't wear lip gloss. Figure it out.)

One more gift. A big one. A cupboard!

This one is from my sister. Both my former cupboard AND hanger collapsed. Yes, probably due to the weight of my clothes. No, I refuse to admit that I have too many clothes. Die oso won't admit.

So now I have a new cupboard and hanger to usher in the new Chinese Year and may the Rabbit Year bring me more gifts and clothes (the latter because now I have more space for them).

(Note: Pictures taken with Lumix GF2)

The Chrysanthemum - An Example of How Notions Form (Or Kill?) Other Notions

2011-01-27T03:37:00.000+08:00

The chrysanthemum flower is really quite pretty. Its happy colour brightens doorways (especially the yellow ones during Chinese New Year) and makes for a cheerful welcome. When boiled and consumed, chrysanthemum tea is a thirst-quenching, cooling and very lovely drink. Its also often referred to as 'funeral flower', being the flora of choice to place at tombstones. I do not know the reason why, but I'm sure there's a practical reason to it. Perhaps its gentle soothing scent masks any unpleasant smells?

Sadly, because of its practical uses, despite its prettiness, the chrysanthemum is one flower that will inevitably be left out every romantic occasion.

Lumix Micro Four-Thirds - GF2

2011-01-24T15:11:00.000+08:00

I've obsessed about having a micro four-thirds camera for aeons (See: Wanting & Waiting vs Attaining Gratification).

Well, the next best thing is to be able to borrow one for the day and pretend it was my own - a Lumix GF2. I won't go into details about whether it was a good camera, how much better it is than a point-n-click, how much worse than a DSLR, yadda yadda yadda. Pictures just do so much more in this case.

My jealous Sony faces off with the Lumix:

(taken with a Sony Cybershot which you will see...)

And the Lumix reciprocates:

It's a bit obvious which is better.

If I zoom in onto the tea bag in the original image file, the texture of the teabag is clearly defined.

And one more shot for today, just because I saw a professional photographer trying to get this picture and I just 'copy' him

Somewhat Different @ Galeri Petronas

2011-01-21T12:42:00.000+08:00

Brilliant. That's what I say about home furnishing designs featured in Galeri Petronas at KLCC.

Each time I am at KLCC, I'd be sure to pop by the gallery. It's free entry (just a simple registration at the entrance required). This one has got to be the most interesting exhibition so far. It was a feature of furnitures by european designers. Not just any ol' furniture, but ones with a twist.

No photography is allowed and there were many gallery personnel standing around, so I didn't dare venture quick snaps of the display. So I'll try and describe as best as I can some of my favourite pieces.

1) Bristle ball

It was a dangling soccer ball made out of bristles. The idea is that you get to practise kicking the ball while cleaning your shoes at the same time

2) Shelves that were supported by diagonal spokes

Conventional shelves have parallel vertical support beams, but this one had several diagonal spokes running through the middle at varying angles.

3) A herb pot embedded in the centre of a window, each half protruded on each side of the window

'In the wall rather than hung on the wall' was roughly the explanation for this display

4) Shelves made from foam-like material as the frame

Foam is used to form a lattice. Before, it would be a collapsed heap of foam, but after inserting plastic boxes in the space within the lattice, the shelf takes a proper shape. This idea is great as it would be easy to transport, assemble and if you decide one day I'd rather have it on that wall instead of this, it's so easy to move and maneuver the pieces even by one person.

You're not supposed to touch the display. Admittedly it was really hard to resist, but a silly girl sat on a inflatable tube bed display (featured in the poster above, the one that looks a bit like a nano tube) and the supporting rings inside popped out loudly (you're suppose to sleep inside the tube, not sit on it). She was told off promptly. The gallery personnel quickly repaired the display, checked again to see it was undamaged, and stationed guards at every corner. Sigh. Hence no pictures from my own camera. Tsk.

The exhibition goes on until 11 March 2011. For more info, click here.

I'm Not Pregnant, I'm Just FAT the last word uttered with spit flying

2011-01-20T23:51:00.000+08:00

Okay, I'm actually not fat, but merely have a bit of excess weight I could do without. But it's much easier than explaining that I have a tendency to put on weight on my tummy and my stomach gets bloated as soon as I shovel food down my throat.

I've finally come to terms that I do indeed look pregnant after several affirmations:

1) During University days when I had the time to swim everyday, a friend commented "You lost a lot of weight!"

My roommate promptly added, "That's because you're looking at her from the back. Look at her profile, and you'll see her big 'tou tum' (cantonese for tummy).

2) When I started working, I had given up exercising having morphed into workaholic. An acquaintance whom I was not very familiar with said during a casual work event, "So when are you due?"

*pause* "I'm not pregnant," I said, after recovering from the shock.

She goes on to ask, without a pause "Are you sure?"

What a tactless remark, Are you sure? "I'm not pregnant. I'm just fat!" I muttered, and walked away.

3) Recently, due to my flexibility of schedule as a freelancer, I have started exercising regularly again which I truly enjoy. But during a church event, a little boy walking pass pauses in front of me, his eyes at eye level with my tummy. In the most sweet manner, he points and says very quietly, "Baby inside." and he walks away.

I couldn't be angry with him at all...he really said it in the most adorable way.

4) TODAY

In a crowded monorail coach, with many other female passengers who are older than me around, a guy gets up and offers me his seat. I may be a bit sensitive about this and perhaps am jumping to conclusion, but I believe he did so because he thought I was pregnant.

I do see the humourous side of it and it would work to my advantage whenever I want to cut the queue at banks, government departments, post offices, etc. However, even if I could ignore vanity, according to Mayo Clinic:

Too much belly fat increases your risk of:

Heart disease

Breast cancer

Diabetes

Metabolic syndrome

Gallbladder problems

High blood pressure

Colorectal cancer

I'm screwed.

The recommendations I've gathered from several sites to help the problem are the following, according to whether 'I am doing', 'I will do' and 'This is going to be a problem'

I am doing

Cardio and strength training
Eat breakfast. I love to start the day with wheat cereal, usually Post brand, and bananas. I don't care that bananas is high in calories, they are nyum and good for you.

I will do

Eat more complex carbs (eg fruits and veggies)
Reduce simple carbs (eg bread, pasta) I will reduce but I will not eliminate. I won't. I simply WON'T.
Small meals, every three hours. Eat more often, this I like.

This is going to be a problem

Reduce caffeine. These two words should NEVER...NEVER be in the same sentence. Unless preceded by the word 'NEVER'

Swimsuits for different purposes

2011-01-18T13:37:00.000+08:00

I've not been shopping much lately for clothes, but recently I acquired three new swimwear in the span of a month.

And I've managed to justify to myself why I needed the three.

Arranged from left to right in decreasing order of practicality and amount of lycra involved, the first is a full body swimsuit that is meant for 'serious' swimming. The one I had before was stretched beyond redemption and my boobs threatened to say hello to the people at the public pool each time I wore it. So I really needed this. Really. And to prove a point to myself, I swam ten laps in it the day after I bought it.

It was from Debenhams @The Curve. It was only RM79.90 after 50% off, which is a reasonable price. Most suits I've seen at Ogival or Triumph also cost about the same after 50% discount, but they are uh-gly.

The piece in the middle come with a string to connect two points in front, looped around the neck for support. It looks nice without though. I did the mistake of just trying it on because when I managed to pull the suit over my boobs and looked into the mirror, I felt like a pin-up poster model. Hence I HAD to get it. Also at the same price and the same place as the first suit. I intend to wear it while lounging at some resort poolside. Most probably at my best bud's upcoming wedding in Bali.

The last piece is from Victoria Secret! I love browsing their online catalogue *drool*. It's rather odd that I am more interested in the VS models than most of the men I know. And I'm so straight.

Xearthed went to the US for work, so we had it shipped to his Hotel to collect. Donning a bikini has been my personal goal for sometime, so acquiring it first is further motivation.

There was a sale on the VS website and only cost USD19 and USD14 for the top and bottom respectively, roughly converts into RM100 for the set. It costs as much to purchase a really mediocre quality bikini in local flea markets. I was further pleased when I saw bikinis selling in local swim specialty stores for RM160/top OR bottom, amounting to more then RM300 for a set. For so little lycra, it's a scam!

I'm suppose to look like this in the bikini I got:

So I'm not quite there yet. But it is something that can be worked on.

I opted to have mismatched pieces because somewhere in my brain, it makes sense to have a patterned top so that my cup A boobs look bigger, and a plain bottom to make my sizable bum smaller. Furthermore wearing pieces that complement each other rather than being similar appears classier.

As to where and when I will wear this...Port Dickson is only an hour's drive away, and I'll hop into the car after I've jogged 1000km and completed 50 000 sit-ups.

Reebonz Spring Clean Contest - Prada bag for Work, Play & Party!

2011-01-17T17:14:00.000+08:00

When I'm inspired, I'm inspired.

I saw the Reebonz Spring Clean Blogger Contest and I could envision immediately one of three outfits I was about to draw.

So with a pencil, eraser and my trusty notebook, I came up with the three spring looks with the chosen must-have bag of choice...a Prada, no less. It's a nice olive green colour which is destined to stand out from other common beige, black or brown, yet shy of screaming 'Gaudy!'. The design is versatile that it can translate from work formal to casual fun and then party with the girls!

Butterflies and flowers have been done to death. Dragonfly is the new butterfly, I say. And it is utterly romantic when sometimes in the evenings, hundreds of dragonflies flutter over your garden (if you've never witnessed this, I pity you).

So, with the four-winged creature making an appearance in each look, here are my three designs for work, for play and for par-tay!

WORK:

It's a pencil skirt, but in brown because black is blah. Match it with a pastel colour top (I chose yellow), bright shoes, and gold dragonfly chain belt.

PLAY:

For whatever reason you might need to catch a dragonfly, the bag slings comfortably on your shoulder while you run with a net.

Of course, one still needs to be casual chic while chasing an insect hence I chose a high-waisted denim pants to enhance the figure (fake a waist even though you don't have one, I say). It ends at the knee because there's mosquitoes but it's too warm to wear full length...this is a happy compromise. Complement it with a simple bright colour top and bright, bright flip-flops!

PARTY!

I love this 70s inspired dress. The full sleeves that ends at the wrists are just dreamy, and the chartreuse colour is sure to stand out in the crowd. Cinch it in at the waist with a dragonfly belt and finish it with burgundy coloured peep toe shoes. Head turner ensemble!

So there they are. One bag, three looks. I think I'll tailor the dress for myself and perhaps receive some proposals while in it.

Further thoughts: Should I continue my Malaysian Bimbo blog or just streamline everything into this main blog? Hmm..

Having a Calvin& Hobbes kind of moment

2011-01-14T17:46:00.000+08:00

If anyone were to ask if they've got what it takes to work from home, one of the questions I'll ask is "Do you enjoy your own company?"

Being alone most of the time without the human interaction can get to you. Even though I truly and thoroughly enjoy the company of Me, Myself and I, it can get lonely and restless at times.

To negate the mental madness that threatens to overcome me, I have picked up several new hobbies, try to get out of the house as often as possible, exercise and...well...let my imagination run wild again as it used to when I was young. I've been told I have a faraway look sometimes, like I'm a million miles away or 20 000 leagues in my own thoughts. And it's very true. I believe dreams - whether the ones you have while asleep or awake - was given to us for us to enjoy experiences that we otherwise can't bodily.

My favourite comic is Calvin & Hobbes, about a little boy who has the wildest and most exciting imagination. He's my hero.

So here I am today, when I felt the frustration starting to creep onto me, emulating Calvin...albeit with a Pooh bear instead of a tiger.

Craft Brews' Set Lunch - Forgasm Worthy

2011-01-14T14:22:00.000+08:00

My niece turned one yesterday. Unlike her mom, uncle and auntie's (me) one-year old celebration of sponge cake, french fries and red agar-agar, she had a party the weekend before plus scrumptious lunch and dinner outings on the actual day.

Yes, she may have only been allowed to eat porridge brought from home in a thermos, but when she grows up and looks at her pictures, she'll know how spoilt she was even at that age.

And how happening! Her parents took the day off and we patronised Craft Brew for lunch.

The set lunch is the focus of this entry. Ranging from RM15.90++ - rM17.90++, it offers sufficient choices from salad to sandwiches, pasta, fish or chicken dishes. It's accompanied by the soup of the day and a drink (ice lemon tea or soft drink).

This roast pork dish is not part of the set lunch, but it's worth a mention - there's garlic and honey in the sauce, which makes it savoury and sweet. Suitable for a snack and I can imagine, with rice.

Here are the set lunches that we ordered:

Ceasar Salad where there's equal balance of protein and veggies. That's my kind of salad

Pork Bangers pasta. It's similar to aglio olio, which incidentally is my pasta dish of choice.

The bangers add a more intense flavour to the dish.

Deep fried brinjal on top of a bed of pasta. The brinjal is light and crunchy, complemented by the tasty but not too heavy tomato-base sauce.

And this is MY dish - butter cream sauce chicken (ignore the clump of pasta there. It is a sedekah from my dad's pork bangers dish). It's the most expensive set (RM17.90++) along with the dory fish dish, but the serving portion is enough to satisfy two appetites (there's two slabs of equal size chicken breasts there, the second one being hidden underneath). The mash potatoes had the right amount of creaminess that I could eat as much of it without getting ill. I had to take away half of my dish (and I finished the leftovers for lunch only just).

Granted not many people want to have such a full meal and spend so much on lunch during working days (need I state the obvious that set lunches are usually available from Mondays to Fridays only? Alright, I'll say it. It's only available from Monday to Friday.) The usual budget is about RM5-10 for work day lunch. But if you're having a really crappy day at the office, it's always good to treat yourself.

'Where this place?' you may ask.

Drive like you are going to IKEA or The Curve. Drive on the road in between the two, passing TESCO on the left, it's at the building on the left after TESCO. Can't miss the big signage.

Just keep going straight after the traffic light in front of TESCO to be able to access the parking entrance.

Wondermilk Cafe @Damansara Uptown

2011-01-06T09:01:00.000+08:00

It was by chance that we needed a nice place to chill and chat after dinner, and one of us recommended Wondermilk Cafe that was just around the corner.

I love unplanned discoveries.

The cafe was utterly charming!

With mismatch tables and chairs and a motley collection of decor (Notice the hanging triangle flags that seem to be made from leftover cloth? Cute!). To put it in another way, there is a difference between a home that has been designed by a professional interior decorator and one that has been filled with pieces found and collected throughout the years by the homeowner from flea markets and traveling. Wondermilk Cafe feels like the latter.

This piece caught my eye:

It makes me think of a hunter's wall, mounted with animals he had killed. This ceramic replication is the animal friendly, SPCA approved version.

I can't comment much about the food, because we only had drinks. I had the Irish Cream flavoured milk (their signature drink, called Wondermilk, with a choice of different flavours). I'd have liked it with more Irish Cream flavour, but milk just can't go too wrong with me (I'd keep a cow in the garden if I could)(I just bought a whole carton = 12 boxes of 1liter Nestle Low Fat Milk all for myself. It's the best!).

The paper on the serving tray is their menu. Much easier to refer to the menu on their website: Wondermilk Menu

I'm going to return to this cafe to try their food and will plan my order beforehand with their online menu. It's reasonably priced and even if the food is blah, it's worth the ambience.

Oh, and not forgetting their specialty....CUPCAKES! At RM4.50/piece, it makes up for its small, seemingly unworthy size for that price with the high high amount of calories it provides! I already know that I'll be trying the Chocolate Cheese Surprise when I return next, and it'll also be after I've jogged 4km and do my Pilates.

The only downside is that they close at 10pm! I often leave my house to yum-cha AT 10pm. We were interrupted from our game of Monopoly on iPad five minutes before closing time and in the most polite manner, indirectly told to get lost.

I'll be back! Maybe for a game of Dungeons & Dragons here, because they have nice big tables.

Cherry Bracelet

2011-01-04T00:30:00.000+08:00

It's so pwetty!

My new charming bracelet made from a chain of cherries of varying sizes and leaves. What saves it from looking cheap is the hexagonal facets that make up the surface of the cherries instead of a smooth bead.

Ya, who knew that one could blog about a bracelet. But there is a moral to this story:

NEVER BUY FROM DIVA! UNLESS THERE'S A SALE!

This one was RM33, and I bought it for RM15 (I also bought a hairband and necklace that was originally retailing for RM65-66, but was also on sale for RM15 nya). Sure, you might not get your favourite pieces out of their entire collection.

My trick is I only enter Diva! during a sale and I head straight to the "Nothing over RM21" section and ONLY that section. That way, I buy my favourite pieces from the SALE collection nya. I don't know what I don't know. I don't see other designs, I won't think there are better options. After all, it's only accessories..not choosing a husband.

Osaka @ Klang - Japanese Food

2011-01-02T03:24:00.000+08:00

Sometimes the most unattractive restaurants serve the tastiest fare. Osaka @ Klang (opposite Jusco Klang) is just like that.

It's a simple, independent Japanese restaurant that boast simple and practical interior fittings, yet the food defies the saying that no good things come cheap.

This whole platter only cost RM12++

At the bottom of the platter is the Tuna Salad, overflowing with tuna topping, costing only RM2++.

At the top right is the Soft Maki Sushi (soft shell crab) at RM4++.

And the remaining is my favourite. So yummy that it deserves it's own close-up picture:

The Klang Maki, a sushi combining the crunchy soft shell crab wrapped in rice, topped with avocado and ebiko that adds a bit of freshness and saltiness, is the perfect sushi in my humble opinion. At only RM6++, I can eat this and only this for an entire meal, since it contains a balance of carbohydrates, protein and fiber (yes, not in the correct proportions, but who really cares).

Another dish that is worth the trip there for is the Soft Kaniko Salad - a mixture of cucumber, soft shell crab (can't go wrong having this in the dish), ebiko, crabstick. The texture is fresh, crunchy and salty.

No contest, this is better than Sushi King, Genki Sushi, Sakae Sushi...chain sushi restaurants, ptooi!

Unusual New Year Countdown

2011-01-02T03:19:00.000+08:00

NEVER. I SAY, NEVER...PARK UNDER A TREE IN SS15, Subang Jaya.

Especially on that road adjacent to the NPE highway.

Unless you believe that bird shitting on you is a sign of good luck. Then, oh boy, you're in for lots of luck.

Ten minutes before ushering in the year 2011, I found my car covered with 'blessings' from above.

I welcomed 2011 at the Caltex carwash in SS14, where I could actually the fireworks from Subang Parade and Sunway Pyramid, albeit partially obscured by trees and building.

HAPPY NEW YEAR.

2010-12-29T15:54:00.001+08:00

I did a 2009 checklist at the end of last year. Now that it's time to bid auld lang syne to this year, it's time to go through my 2010 checklist. Whee!

Quit my job. Check.

Enter the liberating world of freelancing. Check.

Still having sleepless nights, this time from worrying about financial stability. Check.

But live a happier and more satisfying life. Check.

Exercise regularly. Check.

But still get mistaken for being pregnant. Check. Celaka.

Make new friends. No.

But have a deeper appreciation for old friends. Check.

Travel. Check :)

Discover new talents. Check and check. Who knew I could make yarn flowers and draw a series of comics?

Become an aunty. Check.

Laugh. Check.

Fight. Check.

Cry. Check.

Make up. Check.

Wonder what the future holds as the road ahead is unclear. Check.

But deciding to face the unknown as an exciting journey of self-discovery and exploration of the world and wonderful things that it holds for me. That's a Check and insert smiley face emoticon.

Marriage as a Renewable Contract?

2010-12-22T01:34:00.001+08:00

A friend of mine, once widowed, once divorced and now avoiding romantic relationships like the plaque, commented that marriage should be a renewable contract. It's an interesting thought that I've mulled over purely out of anthropological curiosity, not forsaking my own religious beliefs with regards to the rules of marriage.

So, what if marriage was a limited contract? What if there was a time limit that when it ends, the parties involved are allowed to renegotiate the terms and conditions, or decide to not renew the contract at all? After all, it's inevitable that people change over the years. There is always the chance that two who once were the matching lock and key have gathered rust or deteriorated into shapes that do not complement.

I would imagine the terms would change greatly over the years - from "for richer or poorer, in sickness and in health" to "no snoring, no over spending, wash your own dishes and pick up the kids when its your turn".

With the Malaysian divorce rate on the rise (I couldn't find dependable statistics about this online, but generally the belief is so), the finger is pointed to the loosening of family ties, the influence of the media (yeah, yeah, easy to blame something inanimate that can't talk back), foreign influences (ptooi! just because it's negative, doesn't mean it has to come from the outside) and so forth. But in the first place, majority of the animal kingdom is not monogamous. With most animals, the purpose of finding a mate is solely for procreation. They meet, they mate, they raise the young, they say bye-bye.

Sure we humans are supposedly more evolved and kononnya civilised, but perhaps our bodies have not caught up with evolution yet (a male friend once confessed "We cheat because we can!"). We are still classified as 'animals' in the scientific community, not some highly superior super being.

Emotions do complicate the idea of renewable marriages and herein lies the problem. Love and pride would be the biggest obstacles for such a marriage structure.

"We are not compatible anymore, but we have all these memories"

"I want to renew the contract, but s/he doesn't (burst into tears)"

"What would people say?"

"What do you mean you want to remove 'for poorer'? Five years ago, you only married me for my money?"

Hollywood is promoting marriage as an unnecessary contract in the first place. There is logic in their reasoning, but for the common folk when it comes to managing their daily lives, it's always easier to officially declare a partner - eg. when the breadwinner dies, who inherits the deceased's properties; when you file your taxes and declare a partner that is not a spouse, then any Tom, Dick, Harry, Mary, Martha and Jane can be your partner, etc

Renewable marriages is an interesting concept that I wonder will ever become the fashion. If gay marriages are finally being acknowledged in certain countries, perhaps this will also become a norm. I personally do not think I can live in a renewable marriage. I'm too proud and I love too deep. And I'd get mad jealous and livid if my partner doesn't want to renew the contract or is unfaithful. But perhaps future generations who are born into such a system would be different. It would be interesting to see the dynamic of marriages then - the choices that people make in choosing a partner, perhaps more lax in their criteria knowing that they have a 'way out', that an 'expired contract' is not a taboo like 'divorce'. Maybe marriages would be on the rise. Maybe people will start younger.

Or just maybe, a surprising twist, and we find that people stay with the same people year after year, just because knowing they have the choice to change is enough to curb them from actually wanting the change. Humans are funny creatures after all.

Technology I'd Like To See Invented in my Lifetime

2010-12-19T22:38:00.000+08:00

Our parents don't quite comprehend how the Internet can be such an important part of our social lives, our grandparents' probably don't understand computers, our ancestors could never imagine a big, heavy metal machine flying in the air carrying hundreds of people inside was possible, Flintstone never envisioned cars that move by themselves without the use of his feet...

I sometimes wonder what the future holds that I can never envision, as there are bound to be. The world holds such limitless possibilities still waiting to be discovered. One of my fear of dying is that I will never be able to witness wonderful inventions and technology after my lifetime. Suppose that I lived in the 1800s or early 1900s, I'd never have known the Internet (the horror!).

Over time, I have collected in my mind a list of technology I'd like to see invented in my lifetime. Here are a few...

1) Teleportation

I love Star Trek, and since I've learnt driving and that horrid phenomenon called traffic jams and the price of petrol began to affect me, and I started to travel to other countries and have had unpleasant flights, Teleportation had teleported to the top of my list.

Imagine being able to be at your destination within seconds! This changes the whole transportation industry - shipping, flight, automobile industries will no longer exist. The resources required to build, maintain and manage transportation would be minute compared to current ones.

I've read that this technology is definitely possible, but most probably not in my lifetime or the next. Although if I'm so lucky that research on this escalates exponentially, I hope that I'd be open to the idea of splitting my molecules apart and letting a machine put me back together again.

2) Data transfer through thought

Data communication used to be through paper, ink and a pigeon. It then evolved into telegraphic transfers. Then we had landline phones, faxes and later partially wirelessly (considering the entire system) through handphones and emails. From volumes of writings to digital form saved on floppy disks, to CD and DVD ROMs, and then thumbdrives and external harddrives that gets smaller while the capacity gets bigger.

What can be next?

Telekinesis, of course. Data transfer that is wholly wireless, through a thought. You'll just need to think of a friend, and s/he will have an internal ringtone playing in her head. You'll just need to think of your colleague, and request the transfer of file mentally. They can choose to accept or reject, just like with Skype. Storage of data could either be inside our brain or at servers that we access also with our brains.

I suppose this is possible by either implanting a microchip in our brains or finally discovering how to utilise the rest of our brains (if we're only using 10% now, there is so much more we can achieve with 100%!).

3) Compression of molecules and reversion to original form

Mostly, I want this so that when I reach my destination in my car, it will compress to a small ball that I can put in my purse so that I do not have to look for parking. But if they manage #1 first, then this becomes unimportant for me accept maybe I can compress all my garbage in my room and have more space to do my Pilates.

Say, after compression, it will weigh less right? After all, weight is affected by mass, and mass includes the space between the molecules? (note to self, ask Google).

I made a pact with myself that I must not allow myself to be a technology dinosaur one day, to close up my mind to new inventions and technology until my grandchildren will say to me "Grandma, you're so backwards!". When virtual reality games become as good as what Hollywood portrays (Total Recall, Gamer), I hope I'm right there beating their ass at the game.

It's BACK!

2010-12-18T22:36:00.000+08:00

Years and years ago, when I was still a cute little girl in pigtails, a horrifying thing happened to me...

McD discontinued my favourite McTwist sundae cone, an intertwining delight of vanila and chocolate ice-cream. I couldn't accept the reality and continued to ask every McD outlet whether they had the McTwist. It wasn't until months later that I gave up hope and my tiny heart was crushed. I was never the same again.

But now it's BACK!

Renamed Twin Twist, the delectable dessert had people queuing at the McD ice-cream kiosk @ Klang Jusco. I abhor queues, but I'd do anything to once again taste the vanila and chocolate as they melt into each other resulting in a not too creamy vanila and not too chocolatey chocolate. You can say that they bring out the best in each other, and they are even better together than as individuals. Aww, just like the perfect couple.

The Twin Twist or just Chocolate sundae cone cost more - RM1.50 excluding 5% tax - a significant difference considering its 50% more than the staple vanila flavour.

I only had stomach space left for one (after consuming my first of many Prosperity Burger of this season). I can't wait to have another tomorrow!

UPDATE:

It would seem that the Twin Twist @ McTwist is only available at certain outlets.

The McD website doesn't provide any information (doesn't even list this outstanding dessert on the menu).

So far I've only found this in Jusco Klang and Amcorp Mall. I'm hoping to discover more places. It's like a treasure hunt!

UPDATE 2:
It's no longer available in Jusco Klang! Why is McD's doing this to me! - 5 March 2011

UPDATE 3:
It's GONE! I emailed McDs to ask where? where is my favourite McTwist? (Yes, I like it that much).
McDs Corporate Communications Exec called me up a few days later to explain!
He said that those few outlets were conducting trials, and now the testing period has ended. They're analysing the data to help decide whether they should bring it back for good.
PLEASE PLEASE LET IT BE POSITIVE DATA! - 28 March 2011

What YOU have to do...

2010-12-18T00:38:00.000+08:00

If guesses are right that elections are March 2011, then you'll have to register to vote like NOW cause SPR takes aeons to process your registration and place your name in the system.

It's really simple. Just bring your MyKad to the nearest post office. It took me no more than 10 minutes when I registered.

And if you are one of those who think their one vote don't make a difference or they just can't be bothered to, then when..and I stress WHEN, not if...the government increases petrol price, manages public funds in ways you do not see fit, leaves another porthole unplugged, etc...then you have NO RIGHT to complain.

Dreams Don't Always Come True

2010-12-17T11:07:00.001+08:00

Also based on a true story...

Sometimes dreams don't always come true.

Thousands..make that millions...of girls across the world and from aeons ago have dreamt of marrying a rich man. Heck, even the cavewomen hoped to be hit on the head and slung over the shoulder of a caveman with the biggest cave, who could also hunt large mammoths (if the idiom goes 'to earn daily bread', then logically the cavemen's version is 'to hunt the daily mammoth'?)

But there's only so many rich man in the world, and the remaining girls who don't get to have their wishes come true go on to marrying average income dudes...and still love their men just as much.

Sometimes dreams don't have to come true for happily ever afters.

L'erbolario@BSC

2010-12-16T13:30:00.000+08:00

Last night at Bangsar Shopping Complex, Shiren and I left our male dinner companions to kononnya withdraw money at the ATM, but first we moseyed over to L'erbolario, a new skincare boutique to rival the likes of Crabtree & Evelyn and L'occitane.

I'll cut to the chase. Luxury skincare stores are same in many ways that they have nice layout, testers, different ranges, different products, friendly salespersons, etc. But what I found that L'erbolario had that others don't are the types of ingredients they feature that are rare to find in skincare - bark, moss, vetiver, baobab...

After inhaling about 40 different smells, with the occasional sniffs of coffee grounds which they placed around the store to help neutralise the scent in the nose, I had two distinct favourites - the Bark because I'm partial to the earthy smell, but Shiren kept reminding me that that range is meant for men, and the one that features oriental lilies (all the names were in Italian and I was too busy cramming as much scent in to remember. I was after all suppose to be withdrawing money from the ATM).

The scents are gentle and soothing, typical of products using natural raw materials. I avoid fragrances (synthetic scents) as far as possible. Although there are no known harm, I don't like the idea of inhaling too much synthetic products and the overpowering, sharp, pungent nature of fragrances irks me after awhile. I'm not sure about the incense, but the room scents using reeds diffusers are most probably synthetic. Natural oils cannot diffuse through reeds properly, but require the use of a burner. So, besides the room fragrance, everything else in the shop is yummy and fun to smell, test, touch and hold the bottles. A woman can probably spend a blissful hour scent browsing in this small shop. I only had 20 minutes last night, so I HAVE to..just HAVE to go back...soon..

What's to become of my Mac

2010-12-16T13:14:00.000+08:00

So my Mac is now half alive. The connection to the monitor has been fried and will cost more than RM1K to repair (charges are based on US rates, hence after the exchange, it's just ridiculously expensive).

Currently I've hooked an external monitor to my Mac and I can still use it like a fully functional computer. My friends, though sympathetic to a certain degree, can't help making fun of my Mac's situation.

"Aiee! Why is your external monitor so small?"

"But this is the monitor I used in Uni...it was when LCD flat screens came out."

"Yah, but sooo smaaall!"

"You should detach the screen from the keyboard"

"What for?"

"Then you can say you have an iMac. HAHAHAHA."

"And you pretend the detached screen is an iPad, and tell people 'See! My iPad got camera wan!"

"HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA"

"You can sell your laptop in lelong.com - almost new laptop. 6 months only"

"Ya..call it a iMaclaptop. Screen sold separately"

"HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA"

Joker lah these people.

Pakatan Not Favoured by Singapore

2010-12-14T01:00:00.000+08:00

Malaysiakini.com's headlines "Pakatan Not Favoured by Singapore".

Of course! Odds should be in our favour to be the more developed country. Malaysia has:-

1) More land resources

2) More mineral resources

3) More sea resources

4) More human resources

We have all the ingredients to develop faster and better than Singapore, but we are stuck being "the country above Singapore". If we had a competent government who does its job right, Singapore will soon be reduced to that tiny island that looks like a remnant piece of shit dropping out of Malaysia's anus.

VOTE BN OUT.

Milo Boss

2010-12-13T22:38:00.000+08:00

I wish that when I wish for something, it will come true. But that is seldom the case for me.

Nicole, on the other hand, says that she usually gets what she wish for. This is a true story...

Krispy Kreme Dream

2010-12-11T17:55:00.000+08:00

I was driving behind a Krispy Kreme van and found myself unconsciously tailing it...

Forget Number Four

2010-12-09T20:27:00.000+08:00

I was watching 'The Social Network' last weekend with a few friends. The trailer for the movie 'I Am Number Four' played on the screen before the Facebook movie started...

"Number One...was killed in Malaysia" (first person view of running through the forest)

"Number Two...was killed in................"

"Number Three...was killed in............."

"I AM NUMBER FOUR..."

After the movie, we sat down for drinks and to discuss the movie. We were all also intrigued by the trailer.

"Wah, Number One was killed Malaysia."

"Ya, now I wanna know who that person killed in Malaysia was."

"Ya, screw Number Four. I'm just interested in Number One."

"I wonder whether it has anything to do with 1Malaysia?"

"Yeah, at least Malaysia is the number one location where the murders took place."

"Malaysia boleh!"

Price Hike for the umpteenth time

2010-12-06T17:58:00.000+08:00

Yes, petrol in Malaysia may still be one of the cheapest in the world. It's fair to increase the price of petrol if our public transportation is improved. Then the citizens will have a fair choice of paying for the luxury of driving, or save the money and take public transportation instead.

As things are now, we really have NO CHOICE but to own our own vehicle, or risk lung cancer from the pollution, being run over by vehicles with the improper pedestrian walks, being late for appointments, being squashed in the bus or train while wondering whether that wandering hand is really placed inconveniently or enjoying a nice grab and feel...

Needless to say, the savings that the government gain from the price hike is not plowed back to the citizens but to fill the pockets of Rosmah, Najib and the BN cronies who are now broke. What difference is it from Kings and Queens of olden times who taxed their subjects ridiculously while they themselves lived in the lap of luxury within the walls of the castle?

Marie Antoinette was decapitated. Is it horrible to hope that history repeats itself?

My friends Nicole and Voon Hung buys their first home

2010-12-06T17:33:00.000+08:00

Nicole said they had the fantabulous idea of only having comic sketches of themselves on the walls of their new home.

Here's my contribution!

Many of my friends are still currently looking for their first home. With the property prices skyrocketing since last year, may the property bubble burst that everyone's waiting for happens in 2011 or they'll end up married and living with in-laws. Not that I have anything against living with in-laws, but how will a newly married couple 'get it on' with their parents in the house?

Girl Malaysia vs Nature

2010-12-06T01:59:00.000+08:00

A Sister like Me

2010-12-03T18:36:00.000+08:00

With a sister like me, who needs enemies?

My Mac Lands in ICU - Part 2

2010-12-03T17:25:00.001+08:00

My Mac Lands in ICU

2010-11-27T02:35:00.000+08:00

Some people might say I have a weird relationship with my laptop.

They are probably correct.

My Mac is still in ICU...I miss my Mac and am anxious to know its prognosis.

A Malaysian Girl's Search for Herself

2011 Checklist

Zenzi Facial, SS19 Subang Jaya

Looking to Britain as role model

Empire Gallery Subang Reopens; Jaya Grocer has Bentong Ginger

Old Blossom Box: An Exchange

Subang Jaya: Thunderstorm and Hailstones

ZARA Warehouse Sale 2011 - pickings

ZARA Warehouse Sale 2011 - review and tips

Ignorance or Worst Pickup Lines EVER

A PSA: We are more alike than you think.

Weekend Port Dickson Getaway: Avillion Admiral Cove Hotel & El Cactus Bistro

Now, about ambience...Lavender Bistro and Moo Cow

28 Faubourg (again), but at One Utama this time

Supper at Ben's, KLCC

Big Bad Wolf Book Sale Pickings

128 Faubourg by Sothy's @Empire Gallery, Subang Jaya

Grandfather stories and vanishing skill

Just a pretty column @Sunway Pyramid? Look closer

The Local Expat Club

A Tribute to the Heros of Bersih 2.0, 9 July 2011

Why we need reform, and the ones who need it the most are the ones who might not know it.

I Love Four Men At the Same Time

I finally got a pair of Tiamo Ballet Slippers

I'll give ya what you're looking for

Why Key Ng should make me its spokesperson, let me count the ways

Self-Diagnosis

Lost World of Tambun Hot Springs

Trip to Ipoh - Lost World of Tambun Hotel

I've given myself the day off because It's My Birthday

Osama is Dead, but Terrorism is Not

Old Clothes is now New Clothes

Aglio Olio @Dome and @Skewers, Subang Jaya

Hailam Kopitiam @Shah Alam - Recommended for Local Expats

In Case of a Nuclear Plant Meltdown in Malaysia, I've got my Emergency Plan

Local Expats Club Malaysia

Leadership by Example? *snort* *sniff*

Tribe Still Untouched by the World Outside

Audrey Hepburn Mimic + Ballet Shoes from Tiamo, Sunway Pyramid

Almost Aglio Olio + PORK @Crafts Brew, Mutiara Damansara

Unexpected Wisdom

The Old Blossom Box Boutique

Aglio Olio @ D'Italiane Kitchen, Jaya 33

Search for the Best Facial - Leonard Drake

I need Facial Sandpapering and Polishing

I Heart Gifts - Chapter 2

Dark Haired Exotic Gypsy

Wedding Accessories

I Heart Baking

Happy V Day - May everyone find someone to share their hearth

Happy Chinese New Year

I Heart Gifts

The Chrysanthemum - An Example of How Notions Form (Or Kill?) Other Notions

Lumix Micro Four-Thirds - GF2

Somewhat Different @ Galeri Petronas

I'm Not Pregnant, I'm Just FAT *the last word uttered with spit flying*

Swimsuits for different purposes

Reebonz Spring Clean Contest - Prada bag for Work, Play & Party!

Having a Calvin& Hobbes kind of moment

Craft Brews' Set Lunch - Forgasm Worthy

Wondermilk Cafe @Damansara Uptown

Cherry Bracelet

Osaka @ Klang - Japanese Food

Unusual New Year Countdown

Marriage as a Renewable Contract?

Technology I'd Like To See Invented in my Lifetime

It's BACK!

What YOU have to do...

Dreams Don't Always Come True

L'erbolario@BSC

What's to become of my Mac

Pakatan Not Favoured by Singapore

Milo Boss

Krispy Kreme Dream

Forget Number Four

Price Hike for the umpteenth time

My friends Nicole and Voon Hung buys their first home

Girl Malaysia vs Nature

A Sister like Me

My Mac Lands in ICU - Part 2

Leadership by Example? snort sniff

I'm Not Pregnant, I'm Just FAT the last word uttered with spit flying