Marks the start of The Fearful Week Ahead for me!
This happens twice a year, one in October at Cannes, and the other in Singapore this week!
Guess which one keeps me on my toes?
Duh. It's where everyone gathers at Suntec and I don't see daylight. This year, I'm fortunate we do not have a booth, but instead, we've booked a suite at the Conrad to hold our business meetings. This doesn't mean I need to prepare any less than usual.
It's still the usual last minute coordination of products to be delivered...
It's still the usual rush to buy food and beverages so that we can feed our guests...
It's still the usual madness of printing presentation booklets 2 days before the event...
It's still the usual need to decorate our 'suite', but at least this is just a simple 3 posters totalling $600 instead of the 6m x 6m booth that cost us a whooping $40k last year!
So why does the RUSH still get to me? I wonder too...
Monday, May 11, 2009
Tuesday, May 05, 2009
Fear Factor
In a fear factor episode on Sunday, the contestant called Raine was elimated in the first round.It was a battle of love as the host, EK, challenged the contestant to drink half a glass of milk in declaration of her love towards him. The claim was that milk was good for the contestant in terms of calcium intake, with added long term benefits when the contestant becomes old...
After being coaxed out from under the bed covers, contestant Raine took her seat at the table.
For a whole 5 minutes, contestant Raine stared at the half-filled glass of milk in front of her. To aid her along, EK handed the contestant a spoon and a cup of plain water to ease it down.
"One spoonful at a time" he persuaded.
With shaking hands, contestant Raine brought the spoonful of milk towards her mouth.
Da den da den da den daden dadendaden...
Milk - Glup.
Water - GLUP GLUP GLUP.
Spit.
Puke.
Contestant Raine spat the spoonful of milk into the glass of remaining plain water, but compelled with fear, she ran to the sink and puked out whatever was stuck in her throat. Thankfully, it was only milk and water. Nevertheless, tears ran down her cheeks as she cried over the horrid taste of the milk and puke.
As she took the walk of shame, the reflected:
I don't know which I fear more. Milk or the fear of puking after drinking milk. I am hopeless when I puke and I cry a lot because I absolutely cannot stand the horrid feeling that runs from my stomach up to my throat. Perhaps that's what scares me. Maybe it's pscyological as well. I am so afraid of puking and I think if I drink milk I'll puke. So when I do drink milk, I scare myself to think I'll puke and I try to coax myself not to puke but I end up thinking about puke and doing the deed, leaving me crying like a baby. Or perhaps my body really can't stand the taste of puke. I don't know.
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Quarter of a Century
That’s me! Last Saturday, I turned a quarter of a century old.
To commemorate this ground breaking event, the days that led up to Saturday, as well as the birthday weekend were eventful!
The 16th
Last Thursday, EK received an invitation to the launch of (Playboy) VIP Magazine in Singapore. The event, held at Oosh @ Dempsey, had invited several VIPs from all walks of life – there were playgirls from Playboy Mansions all over the world, mediacorp artists, banking professionals, photographers, tourism development personnel, other publications, AXN representatives, etc…
Initially, having heard it was a playboy event, I was prepared to wear a bright pink corset and black shorts, but after being told it was going to be a cocktail event with champagne and wine, I decided to go elegantly sexy in a deep V black dress - a very wise choice which won me several compliments that made me GLOW...Heee
Check out the playboy bunnies below!!!
Did you know it costs USD 500 for the custom made original playboy bunny outfit?!
The 17th
On Friday, I went to another event. This time round, it was organised by Puma to promote their new L.I.F.T. shoes. It was a complete 180 degree change, from elegant to casual, champagne to beer, classy Oosh to party Zouk.
This is the second time in a row I spent my birthday at Zouk. Last year I was there for a fashion event on my actual birthday, while this year, I was there for another fashion event the night before I turned 25. What will I be doing next year?
The big 18th
A beautiful start to a beautiful day!
Early in the morning that Saturday, I went with EK to Dome for a classic BIG BREAKFAST – 2 sunny side ups, 2 chicken sausages, 2 bacon strips, 2 slices of multi-grain toast, 1 hash brown, grilled tomatoes and mushrooms. YUM YUM!!!!!!!
Following that, we headed to Tampines to check out the new mall called Tampines ONE. DUH! Once a shopaholic, always a shopaholic…did you think I’ll spend my birthday without the S word?
In the evening, I went over to my aunt’s place for popiah dinner and YUMMY awfully chocolate cake!! A beautiful close to a beautiful day!!
The day after
On Sunday after church, I went for my appointment…and the outcome…
A beautiful change to complete the big celebration of turning a quarter of a century old! My birthday surprise to you!
To commemorate this ground breaking event, the days that led up to Saturday, as well as the birthday weekend were eventful!
The 16th
Last Thursday, EK received an invitation to the launch of (Playboy) VIP Magazine in Singapore. The event, held at Oosh @ Dempsey, had invited several VIPs from all walks of life – there were playgirls from Playboy Mansions all over the world, mediacorp artists, banking professionals, photographers, tourism development personnel, other publications, AXN representatives, etc…
Initially, having heard it was a playboy event, I was prepared to wear a bright pink corset and black shorts, but after being told it was going to be a cocktail event with champagne and wine, I decided to go elegantly sexy in a deep V black dress - a very wise choice which won me several compliments that made me GLOW...Heee
Check out the playboy bunnies below!!!
Did you know it costs USD 500 for the custom made original playboy bunny outfit?!
The 17th
On Friday, I went to another event. This time round, it was organised by Puma to promote their new L.I.F.T. shoes. It was a complete 180 degree change, from elegant to casual, champagne to beer, classy Oosh to party Zouk.
This is the second time in a row I spent my birthday at Zouk. Last year I was there for a fashion event on my actual birthday, while this year, I was there for another fashion event the night before I turned 25. What will I be doing next year?
The big 18th
A beautiful start to a beautiful day!
Early in the morning that Saturday, I went with EK to Dome for a classic BIG BREAKFAST – 2 sunny side ups, 2 chicken sausages, 2 bacon strips, 2 slices of multi-grain toast, 1 hash brown, grilled tomatoes and mushrooms. YUM YUM!!!!!!!
Following that, we headed to Tampines to check out the new mall called Tampines ONE. DUH! Once a shopaholic, always a shopaholic…did you think I’ll spend my birthday without the S word?
In the evening, I went over to my aunt’s place for popiah dinner and YUMMY awfully chocolate cake!! A beautiful close to a beautiful day!!
The day after
On Sunday after church, I went for my appointment…and the outcome…
A beautiful change to complete the big celebration of turning a quarter of a century old! My birthday surprise to you!
Wednesday, April 08, 2009
Tuesday, April 07, 2009
Equations
COLOUR EXAM
May 2009
Level 1
Topic: Problem Solving using Equations
-----------------------------
Problem
Jane has not coloured her hair in 8 months. Her regrowth is 2 inches long and she needs to decide immediately whether she should go to a professional salon to colour it, or DIY herself.
(1) Time constraints:
1.1 Jane is leaving for Penang tomorrow night = IMPORTANT
1.2 She is going Japan for holiday end May = VERY IMPORTANT
(2) Other constraints:
2.1 If Jane does goes to a professional salon to colour her hair, it will cost her $150 (promotional price for the month of April) = EXPENSIVE
2.2 If Jane colours her own hair at home, it will cost her $25 for the dyes = LESS EXPENSIVE
(3) Uncertainties:
3.1 Jane is an amature at DIY hair colouring = DISASTER
3.2 Jane's hair has 2 colours = UGLY
3.2.1 Her roots are black-brown
3.2.2 Her previously coloured hair are light brown
If Jane recently spent $700 at FJ Benjamin sales (= POOR), what should she do?
SOLUTION A
Penang: IMPORTANT = MUST COLOUR
Professional = $150 = EXPENSIVE
POOR + MUST COLOUR + EXPENSIVE = BROKE + PRETTY IN PENANG + VERY PRETTY IN JAPAN
SOLUTION B
Penang: IMPORTANT = MUST COLOUR
DIY = $25 = LESS EXPENSIVE
Amature at DIY = DISASTER
Jane already has 2 colours in her hair = UGLY
UGLY + DISASTER = UNSIGHTFUL IN PENANG
Japan: VERY IMPORTANT = MUST COLOUR BETTER
Professional = $150 = EXPENSIVE = VERY PRETTY IN JAPAN
Jane recently spent $700 at FJ Benjamin sales = POOR
POOR + $25 + $150 = VERY BROKE + UNSIGHTFUL IN PENANG + VERY PRETTY IN JAPAN
SOLUTION C
Jane recently spent $700 at FJ Benjamin sales = POOR = MUST SAVE
MUST COLOUR + MUST SAVE = DIY = LESS EXPENSIVE = DISASTER = UNSIGHTFUL IN PENANG
But…
Jane already has 2 colours in her hair = ALREADY UNSIGHTFUL
Scenario 1:
POOR + ALREADY UNSIGHTFUL + DISASTER = POORER BUT NOT BROKE + STILL UNSIGHTFUL
Scenario 2:
POOR + ALREADY UNSIGHTFUL – DISASTER = POOR + REMAIN UNSIGHTFUL
Conclusion?
Why go through the DISASTER, OR BECOME BROKE? Remain at Status Quo. URGH! What a WASTE OF MY TIME!
A STANDING OVATION!
...And the award of BEST KOREAN DRAMA OF THE CENTURY goes to '꽃보다 남자' also known as 'Boys over Flowers'.
Last week, the 25 episode drama came to an end. Unlike Korea's famous melodramas plots, 꽃보다 남자 finished on a brilliantly happy note that brought its audience to a standing ovation. The team behind the story did a fantastic job, from script writers who brought out the personality of each character, music which touched the hearts of all fans, to talented actors who cried on cue! Which leads us to our next award...
And the BEST LEAD ACTOR OF THE CENTURY goes to 'Lee Min Ho' playing Goo Joon Pyo, the leader of F4 and also the DREAM MAN OF THE CENTURY!
Needless to say, the BEST LEAD ACTRESS OF THE CENTURY goes to 'Koo Hye Sun' as Geum Jan Di, the girl who dared to stand up to Goo Joon Pyo and became the love of his life!
THE BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR(S) award goes to the remaining F3 'Kim Hyun Joong' as Yoon Ji Hoo - Jan di's emergency bell, 'Kim Bum' as So Yi Jung - Mr Casanova, and 'Kim Joon' as Song Woo Bin - the heart of F4!
And of course, the BEST ON-SCREEN COUPLE OF THE CENTURY naturally goes to Goo Joon Pyo and Geum Jan Di, who made fans all over the world cry, worry and laugh!
This drama has also been awarded for BEST DIRECTING, BEST COSTUME DESIGN, and BEST MUSIC OF THE CENTURY!
On the international level, among the nominees from Taiwan, Japan and Korea, this Korean foursome has emerged victorious, clinching the title for BEST F4 GROUP OF THE CENTURY!
Last but not least, the international award we've all been waiting for, 꽃보다 남자 has clinched the title for BEST HANA YORI DANGO DRAMA OF THE CENTURY, with nominees 流星花園 (Taiwan) and HANA YORI DANGO (Japan) trailing far behind.
Last week, the 25 episode drama came to an end. Unlike Korea's famous melodramas plots, 꽃보다 남자 finished on a brilliantly happy note that brought its audience to a standing ovation. The team behind the story did a fantastic job, from script writers who brought out the personality of each character, music which touched the hearts of all fans, to talented actors who cried on cue! Which leads us to our next award...
And the BEST LEAD ACTOR OF THE CENTURY goes to 'Lee Min Ho' playing Goo Joon Pyo, the leader of F4 and also the DREAM MAN OF THE CENTURY!
Needless to say, the BEST LEAD ACTRESS OF THE CENTURY goes to 'Koo Hye Sun' as Geum Jan Di, the girl who dared to stand up to Goo Joon Pyo and became the love of his life!
THE BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR(S) award goes to the remaining F3 'Kim Hyun Joong' as Yoon Ji Hoo - Jan di's emergency bell, 'Kim Bum' as So Yi Jung - Mr Casanova, and 'Kim Joon' as Song Woo Bin - the heart of F4!
And of course, the BEST ON-SCREEN COUPLE OF THE CENTURY naturally goes to Goo Joon Pyo and Geum Jan Di, who made fans all over the world cry, worry and laugh!
This drama has also been awarded for BEST DIRECTING, BEST COSTUME DESIGN, and BEST MUSIC OF THE CENTURY!
On the international level, among the nominees from Taiwan, Japan and Korea, this Korean foursome has emerged victorious, clinching the title for BEST F4 GROUP OF THE CENTURY!
Last but not least, the international award we've all been waiting for, 꽃보다 남자 has clinched the title for BEST HANA YORI DANGO DRAMA OF THE CENTURY, with nominees 流星花園 (Taiwan) and HANA YORI DANGO (Japan) trailing far behind.
Source: The Raine Globe Awards
Monday, April 06, 2009
Confessions of a shoppa-FCUK-aholic
Yesterday, I finally watched the movie “Confessions of a Shopaholic” and I absolutely loved it! Though I do not like the actress playing Becky (she’s not as pretty as her best friend Suze or rival Alicia-Bitch-Long-Legs), nor did the movie keep strictly to the sequence of happenings according to the original novel, but it was a refreshing and enjoyable movie that kept me laughing throughout.
However, some parts were so scarily déjà vu, especially with my recent trips – note the plural – to the FJ Benjamin sales!!
1) The queue before the doors even open!
According to my colleague who went to queue on Saturday, she got there half an hour before the doors opened and there were already 100+ people in front of her! I got there at 10am on Saturday and the queue already flooded to the floor below!
2) The race to the doors
It is all true! Apart from the long queues, the moment the doors open, people literally rush forward and scramble to their desired sections – in my case was the Guess handbag section. Learning from past experiences, I have become an expert and did not carry my handbag to this recent FJ Benjamin sale so that I do not need to queue for bag deposit.
3) Becky catfights for the pair of boots
On Friday evening when I returned to the sales, a large crowd of women ambushed staff in the Guess handbag and luggage sections – everyone eager to snatch any new stocks that was released. It was major catfight! The moment a staff took out one trolley luggage, masses of women pressed forward to snatch it from them! It was an accident waiting to happen – until a point where the boss had decided to stop handing out Guess bags.
I didn’t have my eyes on the Guess luggages, but I had my eyes on a Guess handbag which I’ve always wanted since it got to stores with a price tag of $159.90. Even when it went on sale price at $100, I still thought it was expensive and didn’t allow EK to buy for me. To my delight, I spotted it at this sale! But before the handbags could reach the sale table, it was snatched up by everyone else. I was dishearted, but my desire for the bag took over and I approached a stranger, asking if she wanted to trade it with me for any other handbags I had. She was nice and was willing to give me the bag. YAY!
4) The regret after the purchase
In Becky’s case, as she stared at the bags and bags of purchases she got at the sale, $$$ calculations were running through her head. In my case, though part of my brain was scolding me for the $$$ I had spent, the other side of my brain was chiding me for not getting more because the deals were tooooooo gooooooood to be true! Especially when I found out my sister also likes the bags I got for myself, I regretted not buying more!
Having done the above similarity comparison, I’m not like Becky. I don’t chock up $160,000 in credit card bills. I know whatever I charge I can make payment for… and I only shop wisely for good bargains. I have a voice of reason – EK – who tells me what’s good to buy and what not to buy…so I don’t think I’m a shopaholic...
Agreed?
However, some parts were so scarily déjà vu, especially with my recent trips – note the plural – to the FJ Benjamin sales!!
1) The queue before the doors even open!
According to my colleague who went to queue on Saturday, she got there half an hour before the doors opened and there were already 100+ people in front of her! I got there at 10am on Saturday and the queue already flooded to the floor below!
2) The race to the doors
It is all true! Apart from the long queues, the moment the doors open, people literally rush forward and scramble to their desired sections – in my case was the Guess handbag section. Learning from past experiences, I have become an expert and did not carry my handbag to this recent FJ Benjamin sale so that I do not need to queue for bag deposit.
3) Becky catfights for the pair of boots
On Friday evening when I returned to the sales, a large crowd of women ambushed staff in the Guess handbag and luggage sections – everyone eager to snatch any new stocks that was released. It was major catfight! The moment a staff took out one trolley luggage, masses of women pressed forward to snatch it from them! It was an accident waiting to happen – until a point where the boss had decided to stop handing out Guess bags.
I didn’t have my eyes on the Guess luggages, but I had my eyes on a Guess handbag which I’ve always wanted since it got to stores with a price tag of $159.90. Even when it went on sale price at $100, I still thought it was expensive and didn’t allow EK to buy for me. To my delight, I spotted it at this sale! But before the handbags could reach the sale table, it was snatched up by everyone else. I was dishearted, but my desire for the bag took over and I approached a stranger, asking if she wanted to trade it with me for any other handbags I had. She was nice and was willing to give me the bag. YAY!
4) The regret after the purchase
In Becky’s case, as she stared at the bags and bags of purchases she got at the sale, $$$ calculations were running through her head. In my case, though part of my brain was scolding me for the $$$ I had spent, the other side of my brain was chiding me for not getting more because the deals were tooooooo gooooooood to be true! Especially when I found out my sister also likes the bags I got for myself, I regretted not buying more!
Having done the above similarity comparison, I’m not like Becky. I don’t chock up $160,000 in credit card bills. I know whatever I charge I can make payment for… and I only shop wisely for good bargains. I have a voice of reason – EK – who tells me what’s good to buy and what not to buy…so I don’t think I’m a shopaholic...
Agreed?
Friday, April 03, 2009
Batam Revisted.
Apparently…
I have been to Batam before, according to my parents. I remember the part where I got to drive the golf buggy for the first time as I went with Dad around the golf course. Everything else is a blur. Mum recalled that my sister and I didn’t enjoy it, with the many flies and dirty streets.
With a 2 night complimentary stay voucher…
EK and I took the opportunity and booked ourselves into Batam View Beach Resort over the Friday plus weekend (22 - 22 March). We have been saying that we should visit Batam, perhaps on some weekend where we got really bored of Singapore and wanted out! And so we did.
Researching on google…
We weren’t impressed with the resort or facilities, neither with the sights or the attractions. Wondering what we were going to do there over the 3 days, we packed with reservation.
Upon arrival…
We were pleasantly surprised. We were well guided by the staff in yellow who collected us from the checkpoint, showed us to the bus and then took to the resort. The staff at the reception were friendly, allowing us to check in 2 hours earlier than specified.
Superior standard…
Our rooms were of the cheapest offered at the resort, but it was still clean, spacious and comfortable for the two of us.
Touring the resort…
We ticked off our checklist. Restaurant, swimming pool, table tennis, tennis, badminton, beach volley, jet ski, snorkelling, canoeing, kayaking, karaoke, bar, etc. Check! Check! Check! Some were free, but others not. Everything was in Singapore prices and hence, not cheap.
Town exploration…
We grabbed a cab and went into town. The cab fare to Nagoya was $20, but it was quite a distance so it was reasonable. Lunch was priority and we had a safe lunch at A&W before shopping around Nagoya Hills – considered to be one of their largest mall. Sizewise, it was big but shops wise, not my kind of shopping. You could find fake LV everything, or Gucci and the lot. Guess came real or fake, so did watches. Upon closer scrutiny, EK noted that even a cheap product such as a Sony battery charger was fake! But supermarket shopping was fun fun fun because things were cheap cheap cheap. Potato chips at $1, orange juice at $0.50, and Heineken at $1.50 a can.
The confusing ZEROS…
Payment was mind-boggling! Exchanging S$100, we almost became millionaires! What’s with all the zeros! I had so much difficulty counting the notes! The joke of the day: EK decided to split some cash with me, so that if I got lost, I wouldn’t be penniless. So he handed me several RP 1000 notes. I graciously accepted but after a brief calculation, informed him, “It’s not even $1”. GAH! It was impossible to deal with the large numbers of pointless zeros, which made payment cumbersome and slow (for us visitors). It’s such a waste of money. Why does the government print RP 1000 notes worth only 12 singapore cents?! I fancied a pair of shorts costing RP 130,000, and only after whipping out my handphone calculator and realising it meant $16, I finally agreed to part with the cash.
Relaxing Massage…
With $24 each, we scored ourselves a good 2 hour long massage! You can’t compare it to Singapore’s or Penang’s expensive but amazing massages, but theirs was quality at price. We couldn’t complain. After the massage and some Chinese dinner, we headed back to the resort – after a thrilling and scary taxi ride – imagine TAXI (the French movie) but at night.
Sports galore…
After a filling buffet breakfast, EK and I spent the morning doing sports such as table tennis and tennis. By noon, the sun was far too unbearable and we retreated indoors to play some pool. After 2 games where I emerged the loser, we went back to our room. Not long after, rain came down and locked us in. So we entertained ourselves, me as the model and EK as the photographer. I’ve got some great shots I can’t wait to share – but first, the DI master needs to do his photoshop magic before I share them with you. Heee.
Chilling out…
Armed with the bread and snacks from our supermarket trip, we kept our tummies occupied till dinner. After sharing a cup noodles in the room, we went down to the restaurant to share a main course for dinner. After dinner, we went to check out the outdoor kelong restaurant which serves seafood, took a stroll along the docks before heading back to rest.
Surprising myself…
I never thought I could play table tennis that well. On Sunday morning after breakfast, EK and I went to play a round of table tennis – that was a warm-up. Just as I was getting into it, we realised there was badminton and we changed games, only to discover it wasn’t as fun as table tennis. And so, we returned to the table and played 9 sets of exciting table tennis. And I emerged the winner – ok, perhaps EK gave in to me and didn’t use all he got, but I was surprised with myself because I never liked table tennis – not even when we played it during physical education in school.
Checking out…
After the good game of table tennis, we returned to our rooms to pack up and check out. While waiting for the bus to pick us up and take us to the ferry terminal, we lounged in the hall and entertained ourselves with cheap magnum ice cream…YUM YUM.
Batam revisited…
We boarded the ferry and headed back to Singapore, arriving home around 5pm. The conclusion was that it was a good and relaxing trip, better than we had expected. We enjoyed ourselves, but we won’t go again unless we are offered another complimentary stay… It’s fun, but not fantastic, so we wouldn’t pay to visit again.
I have been to Batam before, according to my parents. I remember the part where I got to drive the golf buggy for the first time as I went with Dad around the golf course. Everything else is a blur. Mum recalled that my sister and I didn’t enjoy it, with the many flies and dirty streets.
With a 2 night complimentary stay voucher…
EK and I took the opportunity and booked ourselves into Batam View Beach Resort over the Friday plus weekend (22 - 22 March). We have been saying that we should visit Batam, perhaps on some weekend where we got really bored of Singapore and wanted out! And so we did.
Researching on google…
We weren’t impressed with the resort or facilities, neither with the sights or the attractions. Wondering what we were going to do there over the 3 days, we packed with reservation.
Upon arrival…
We were pleasantly surprised. We were well guided by the staff in yellow who collected us from the checkpoint, showed us to the bus and then took to the resort. The staff at the reception were friendly, allowing us to check in 2 hours earlier than specified.
Superior standard…
Our rooms were of the cheapest offered at the resort, but it was still clean, spacious and comfortable for the two of us.
Touring the resort…
We ticked off our checklist. Restaurant, swimming pool, table tennis, tennis, badminton, beach volley, jet ski, snorkelling, canoeing, kayaking, karaoke, bar, etc. Check! Check! Check! Some were free, but others not. Everything was in Singapore prices and hence, not cheap.
Town exploration…
We grabbed a cab and went into town. The cab fare to Nagoya was $20, but it was quite a distance so it was reasonable. Lunch was priority and we had a safe lunch at A&W before shopping around Nagoya Hills – considered to be one of their largest mall. Sizewise, it was big but shops wise, not my kind of shopping. You could find fake LV everything, or Gucci and the lot. Guess came real or fake, so did watches. Upon closer scrutiny, EK noted that even a cheap product such as a Sony battery charger was fake! But supermarket shopping was fun fun fun because things were cheap cheap cheap. Potato chips at $1, orange juice at $0.50, and Heineken at $1.50 a can.
The confusing ZEROS…
Payment was mind-boggling! Exchanging S$100, we almost became millionaires! What’s with all the zeros! I had so much difficulty counting the notes! The joke of the day: EK decided to split some cash with me, so that if I got lost, I wouldn’t be penniless. So he handed me several RP 1000 notes. I graciously accepted but after a brief calculation, informed him, “It’s not even $1”. GAH! It was impossible to deal with the large numbers of pointless zeros, which made payment cumbersome and slow (for us visitors). It’s such a waste of money. Why does the government print RP 1000 notes worth only 12 singapore cents?! I fancied a pair of shorts costing RP 130,000, and only after whipping out my handphone calculator and realising it meant $16, I finally agreed to part with the cash.
Relaxing Massage…
With $24 each, we scored ourselves a good 2 hour long massage! You can’t compare it to Singapore’s or Penang’s expensive but amazing massages, but theirs was quality at price. We couldn’t complain. After the massage and some Chinese dinner, we headed back to the resort – after a thrilling and scary taxi ride – imagine TAXI (the French movie) but at night.
Sports galore…
After a filling buffet breakfast, EK and I spent the morning doing sports such as table tennis and tennis. By noon, the sun was far too unbearable and we retreated indoors to play some pool. After 2 games where I emerged the loser, we went back to our room. Not long after, rain came down and locked us in. So we entertained ourselves, me as the model and EK as the photographer. I’ve got some great shots I can’t wait to share – but first, the DI master needs to do his photoshop magic before I share them with you. Heee.
Chilling out…
Armed with the bread and snacks from our supermarket trip, we kept our tummies occupied till dinner. After sharing a cup noodles in the room, we went down to the restaurant to share a main course for dinner. After dinner, we went to check out the outdoor kelong restaurant which serves seafood, took a stroll along the docks before heading back to rest.
Surprising myself…
I never thought I could play table tennis that well. On Sunday morning after breakfast, EK and I went to play a round of table tennis – that was a warm-up. Just as I was getting into it, we realised there was badminton and we changed games, only to discover it wasn’t as fun as table tennis. And so, we returned to the table and played 9 sets of exciting table tennis. And I emerged the winner – ok, perhaps EK gave in to me and didn’t use all he got, but I was surprised with myself because I never liked table tennis – not even when we played it during physical education in school.
Checking out…
After the good game of table tennis, we returned to our rooms to pack up and check out. While waiting for the bus to pick us up and take us to the ferry terminal, we lounged in the hall and entertained ourselves with cheap magnum ice cream…YUM YUM.
Batam revisited…
We boarded the ferry and headed back to Singapore, arriving home around 5pm. The conclusion was that it was a good and relaxing trip, better than we had expected. We enjoyed ourselves, but we won’t go again unless we are offered another complimentary stay… It’s fun, but not fantastic, so we wouldn’t pay to visit again.
Thursday, April 02, 2009
Confessions of a Shopaholic (NOT THE MOVIE)
”Hi, I’m Raine and I’m a Shopaholic.” Raine introduced herself at the SS* convention held at the Grand Hyatt.
“Hi, Raine.” The other members greeted and continued with their activities.
“Le-Long, Le-Long, FJB sale ! FJB sale ! HURRY HURRY, DON’T MISS OUT! GET YOUR FRIENDS TOGETHER AND SAVE MORE AH!!” The sales men called and the shopaholics flocked in masses down to the Grand Hyatt for the annual SS convention held by FJ Benjamin.
Translation:
Raine was among the shopaholics. Along with 2 other colleagues of hers, they joined the queue to enter the ballroom during their lunch hour.
Upon entering, Raine was neither deterred by the masses, nor was she deterred by the mess. Being a well-trained SS member, especially with limited time on her hands, Raine went straight to conquer her top priority – LA SENZA LINGERIE!
“COME! COME AND SEE! Seduce your partners with these sexy lingeries! Or sleep in beautiful bliss with our comfy pyjamas! 1 piece for $25, but don’t stop at 1, BUY 3 FOR $45!”
Raine dived into the pile, shouting “Gimmie 3!”
When she emerged, she found she had 4. No, 5 pieces! No, 4…but the offer is 3 for $45! Before she could decide, her colleague called.
“Have you seen the queue to pay?! It’s super long. We need a plan of attack. Let’s take turns to queue! I’ll go queue first, 10 minutes later, you come over, OK?” Her colleague discussed.
“Great plan!” Raine ended the call and returned her attention to her lingeries.
After a grueling elimination process among the lingeries, she decided time was precious and stuffed the final selected 4 pieces into her TBP** bag before proceeding to take her turn at the payment queue.
“I’ll decide which 3 pieces I want when I’m in the queue.” She strategized and headed over to find her colleague.
She was not swayed by the other sales men who were vying for her attention, “Miss, bras are only $18 each, or if you purchase 2, it’s only $30, but since you’re so pretty, if you buy 3, I’ll give it to you at $36 only! That means it’s only $12 each leh! VERY GOOD BUY!”
“I know, I know. I’ll come back later if I have time.” If I really want it.
The queue was indeed long! While she was deciding which 3 lingeries to pick, her other colleague came over to relief her of her duties. TING*** Raine quickly recommended the lingeries to her.
“Go and see, I’ve got 4 pieces so if you find anything else you want, we can combine and get cheaper prices.”
It was a good move and her colleague returned with 2 more lingeries in hand and Shopaholic Raine didn’t need to eliminate any one of her buy!
Raine exchanged shift with her colleague and proceeded to overcome the next challenge!
Her eyes twinkled as she approached the sales bins.
“You, ma’am!” A salesman called.
“Me?”
“Yes, you, ma’am. Come and check out our lovely Guess bags! It’s selling for 1 for $45, 3 for $120, or better yet, 6 for $180!!! Tell me where in Singapore can you find such good bargains?”
“Only at the ballroom of the Grand Hyatt?”
“Bingo! Only $30 a bag if you purchase 6 bags. Buy a few for yourself, for your mother, for your sister, for your aunty lah! It’s very good buy leh!”
Raine thought to herself, “If I could I would have bought a truckload – it was daylight
She did her mental calculations. Usually, the prices of guess bags are $180, or at minimum $100 during department store sales. At $30 a bag, that’s savings of $70 per bag (as compared to standard sales). TING!
“Give me 6!!!!”
She returned back to the queue to relief her colleagues and to recollect herself. She had 8 handbags in her hands. She only wanted 6, but she only liked 5. What should she do?
Not long after, her colleague came over to take over and she hurriedly returned the 2 least favourite handbags. The payment queue was getting shorter by the minute and it was now a race against time.
She chucked the 2 handbags and rushed over to the LA SENZA section again because her sister wanted bras!
The sales men hit the right notes, “…and La Senza bras going for 1 for $18 or 3 for $36. Panties at 5 for $10!!! It’s insane, isn’t it! You can’t even find 5 panties for $10 bargains at pasar malams, but you can find it here at the Grand Hyatt!
“I’ll take 3 bras!!”
Raine rejoined her colleagues just in time as they headed into the payment section (separate room where the queue continued on).
She stood in line to reorganize her buy. Her other colleague, seeing the many handbags Raine had in her hand was tempted and hopped out of the queue quickly to check out the handbags. Her colleague returned with one handbag and Raine had another TING moment.
5 bags for Raine + 1 bag for her colleague = 6 bags at $180!
So Raine settled her additional bag problem and made payment.
It was a very fruitful shopping trip, even though Raine didn’t even make it to the other sections such as clothes and shoes.
As she talked with her colleagues, she learnt more about the other brands on sale:
- RAOUL - $50 or less for men’s shirts
- GAP - 1 tshirt for $10, 3 for a lot cheaper
- GUESS - 3 pairs of shoes for $99 and more for cheaper!!!
- BANANA REPUBLIC - $25 for a dress
There were also Guess watches, wallets, Raoul accessories, etc....all on crazy sale but she didn't have time to look…so the NEXT big question is, will she return in the next couple of days?
To be continued…
* SS – Shopping Shopaholics
** TBP – To Be Purchased
*** TING – Lightbulb moment
Note: All dialogues are fictitious, but sale & prices are FOR REAL!
Monday, March 30, 2009
Mourning before it has passed...
My colleague and I are mourning over Boys Over Flowers (korean), even before it has passed.
Today and tomorrow, Korea will be airing the last 2 episodes to the Boys Over Flowers drama. Along with millions of fans worldwide, we cannot bear to part with the tear jerking and emotional scenes, the sweet and envious precious moments,the dreamy storyline, and last but not least, the 4 handsome guys.
Throughout the past couple of months, we have been looking forward to Mondays and Tuesdays...Monday blues are a thing of the past as we yearn for the weekend to pass quickly so that we can watch the next episodes.
But as it draws to a close, the inevitable feeling of loss creaps up on us. How will the ending be? With Korea's unpredictable and melodramatic tendencies, we are left wondering if the pair will be together or not. As saying goes, all good things must come to an end...
Will there be another drama as good as this?
Today and tomorrow, Korea will be airing the last 2 episodes to the Boys Over Flowers drama. Along with millions of fans worldwide, we cannot bear to part with the tear jerking and emotional scenes, the sweet and envious precious moments,the dreamy storyline, and last but not least, the 4 handsome guys.
Throughout the past couple of months, we have been looking forward to Mondays and Tuesdays...Monday blues are a thing of the past as we yearn for the weekend to pass quickly so that we can watch the next episodes.
But as it draws to a close, the inevitable feeling of loss creaps up on us. How will the ending be? With Korea's unpredictable and melodramatic tendencies, we are left wondering if the pair will be together or not. As saying goes, all good things must come to an end...
Will there be another drama as good as this?
Friday, March 27, 2009
If only women could be simplified so easily...
Men are solution seekers…they have to rationalise everything. Clearly, the following diagrams are from MEN, but can we be simplified so easily with these diagrams? Or are we the sum of all diagrams? I think the latter.
We add baggage, are unpredictable and hazardous, argumentative, complicated, meticulous and more!
Not like men who are so boring…YAWN.
We add baggage, are unpredictable and hazardous, argumentative, complicated, meticulous and more!
Not like men who are so boring…YAWN.
Thursday, March 26, 2009
School uniforms in fashion?
I absolutely love the school uniforms in Boys over Flowers! Sexy, preppy and full of class!
So...Will you wear your school uniforms on the street, on weekends, to the city and on dates?
HELL YA!
I just visited one of my favourite Taiwan brand Knightsbridge's website and it appears school uniform designs are in fashion! Especially white shirts with plaid skirts!
Don't they look absolutely fun and adorable! LOVE LOVE LOVE!
Well...anything's definitely better than the Nanyang school uniform!! Can't imagine I lived with it for 10 years!
So...Will you wear your school uniforms on the street, on weekends, to the city and on dates?
HELL YA!
I just visited one of my favourite Taiwan brand Knightsbridge's website and it appears school uniform designs are in fashion! Especially white shirts with plaid skirts!
Don't they look absolutely fun and adorable! LOVE LOVE LOVE!
Well...anything's definitely better than the Nanyang school uniform!! Can't imagine I lived with it for 10 years!
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Tired but HIGH!
I’m so tired, and yet so HIGH. Is that possible? YES, if you’re into the k-drama craze, specifically 꽃보다 남자 (Kgotboda Namja), or aka Boys Over Flowers!!
Last night, I watched the long due episodes from last Monday/Tuesday (I couldn’t find the time throughout the week to watch it)…and it was soooooo good.
Jandi’s maid’s outfit – SOOOOOOOO ADORABLE!
Ohhh, and the part when she was formally introduced as Jun Pyo’s personal assistant…AWWWWW. He was so shocked, it was SOOOOOOOOO CUTE.
And then he calls her to his room and asks her to cook ramen for him, demanding to eat it in the cooking pot (as commoners do), and then subtly asks her to sit on his comfy lazy boy in order to let her rest, and then he discovers she falls asleep and he puts a blanket over her…and and and…he watches her with those sweet loving eyes – AHHHHHHHHHHHH. LOVE LOVE LOVE!
And and and…another time when he lures her to his room to accompany him to watch a horror movie and there’s typical ‘I’m scared so I grab on to the person next to me’ scene * GRIN *
And when she wants to leave his room but spots his fiancé coming in, she hides in his closet and ends up falling asleep…and he so gently carries her back to her bed – Everyone go ‘AWWWWWWWWWWWWWW’!
And when he begs the fiancé not to go through the wedding coz he only loves Jandi and will never love another – TEAR!
OK, I think I’ve spoilt it for those who intend to watch it but have not…SORRY…HAD TO OOOOHHHH and AWWWWWW.
I’m dying, itching, pining, yearning to watch the day before yesterday and yesterday’s episode!
URGH…scratch scratch!
Last night, I watched the long due episodes from last Monday/Tuesday (I couldn’t find the time throughout the week to watch it)…and it was soooooo good.
Jandi’s maid’s outfit – SOOOOOOOO ADORABLE!
Ohhh, and the part when she was formally introduced as Jun Pyo’s personal assistant…AWWWWW. He was so shocked, it was SOOOOOOOOO CUTE.
And then he calls her to his room and asks her to cook ramen for him, demanding to eat it in the cooking pot (as commoners do), and then subtly asks her to sit on his comfy lazy boy in order to let her rest, and then he discovers she falls asleep and he puts a blanket over her…and and and…he watches her with those sweet loving eyes – AHHHHHHHHHHHH. LOVE LOVE LOVE!
And and and…another time when he lures her to his room to accompany him to watch a horror movie and there’s typical ‘I’m scared so I grab on to the person next to me’ scene * GRIN *
And when she wants to leave his room but spots his fiancé coming in, she hides in his closet and ends up falling asleep…and he so gently carries her back to her bed – Everyone go ‘AWWWWWWWWWWWWWW’!
And when he begs the fiancé not to go through the wedding coz he only loves Jandi and will never love another – TEAR!
OK, I think I’ve spoilt it for those who intend to watch it but have not…SORRY…HAD TO OOOOHHHH and AWWWWWW.
I’m dying, itching, pining, yearning to watch the day before yesterday and yesterday’s episode!
URGH…scratch scratch!
Monday, March 16, 2009
Little Miss Fickle went full circle...
As the story goes, Little Miss Fickle was about to sign the contract on the fourth apartment she saw. When she turned up at the owner’s place all ready to place yet another option to purchase fee, she faced yet another hurdle. The owner wanted to sell the apartment to her, but didn’t want to sign the papers until they have prayed to their God’s and most auspicious date to sign the contract…so Little Miss Fickle, irritated by the owner’s own fickleness, left for home to report back to her parents.
She decided to be a little bit more patient and wait for the owners to sign, so Little Miss Fickle decided to call Mr Agent to inform him that she wishes to forfeit the third apartment and deposit fee, but after a good half an hour conversation, Mr Agent managed to convince Little Miss Fickle otherwise.
So to cut the story short, Little Miss Fickle decided to stick to her first instinct and finalized the contract on the third apartment, which was older, but corner, larger and more spacious. She went one full circle, but she was glad she made this final decision…
Today, Little Miss Fickle faces other decisions…
How should she decorate the place?
What furniture to buy?
What colours to paint the apartment? What theme to go with?
Though many decisions await Little Miss Fickle, she looks forward to tackling them because it’s finally starting to get fun! That is…if budget allows.
She decided to be a little bit more patient and wait for the owners to sign, so Little Miss Fickle decided to call Mr Agent to inform him that she wishes to forfeit the third apartment and deposit fee, but after a good half an hour conversation, Mr Agent managed to convince Little Miss Fickle otherwise.
So to cut the story short, Little Miss Fickle decided to stick to her first instinct and finalized the contract on the third apartment, which was older, but corner, larger and more spacious. She went one full circle, but she was glad she made this final decision…
Today, Little Miss Fickle faces other decisions…
How should she decorate the place?
What furniture to buy?
What colours to paint the apartment? What theme to go with?
Though many decisions await Little Miss Fickle, she looks forward to tackling them because it’s finally starting to get fun! That is…if budget allows.
Tuesday, March 03, 2009
Little Miss Fickle
Little Miss Fickle bought a house.
Little Miss Fickle went back home…
Little Miss Fickle thought ‘OH NO’.
Once upon a time in Fickle World, Little Miss Fickle went to view apartments.
On her first viewing, Little Miss Fickle saw a small and run-down apartment. It was old and the apartment needed 100% renovations. But the selling price was reasonable. Disheartened, Little Miss Fickle went back home. She thought to herself, “Is this what all apartments in Fickle World would look like? Old and in need of major renovations?” Little Miss Fickle liked the idea of renovations because that meant she could have a brand new interior, so Little Miss Fickle considered that option.
But the next day, she received a call saying that apartment had already been sold. So Little Miss Fickle viewed another two apartments.
The second apartment was old with weird angled rooms, but more spacious than the first. However, the price was a little high for something that needed to be renovated. Little Miss Fickle thought more about the first apartment which was already sold.
The third apartment she saw was slightly noisy as it was along the main road, but it was also very spacious, had a beautiful kitchen and nice toilets. Little Miss Fickle’s spirits brightened up. She liked this apartment and thought it was a rare find, especially when she had started to believe that all apartments in Fickle World was going to be old and run-down. Under the influential speech given by Mr Agent, Little Miss Fickle felt compelled to make a decision. But she went home and thought about it. Little Miss Fickle discussed it with her parents, as well as her boyfriend Mr Photographer, who all encouraged her to make the decision based on what she felt.
So Little Miss Fickle decided to put down an offer for the apartment.
On the same day Little Miss Fickle was going to pay the deposit, Little Miss Another-Agent called to ask if she was interested in viewing another apartment. So Little Miss Fickle and Mr Photographer went down to view this fourth apartment.
It was newer, younger, but smaller and along the corridor. Though Little Miss Fickle and Mr Photographer liked it, but she thought the corridor issue was a big problem of privacy and decided against it. So they met Mr Agent and paid the deposit for the option to purchase the third apartment they viewed.
Or should she have not? When Little Miss Fickle got home, all she could think about was the fourth apartment instead. Suddenly, more and more reasons NOT to purchase the third apartment surfaced. Little Miss Fickle thought ‘OH NO, I made the wrong choice’.
Though Little Miss Fickle was relieved that she had 2 weeks to consider her offer on the third apartment and it would only result in losing the minimal deposit, she couldn’t make the decision. So her parents and Mr Photographer decided for her.
Little Miss Fickle rang Little Miss Another-Agent to schedule the second viewing of fourth apartment. After the second viewing, both Little Miss Fickle and Mr Photographer liked the apartment and offered to purchase the apartment.
Currently, they are waiting for Little Miss Another-Agent to return call and arrange a date for the signing of documents and making of the deposit. Little Miss Fickle has also viewed two more apartments in Fickle World, but her decision still sways to the fourth apartment she viewed.
What if the deal for the fouth apartment falls through? What if the owner decides he doesn’t want to sell? Little Miss Fickle worries incessantly. At least Little Miss Fickle still holds the offer for the third apartment…but does she want something bigger yet older, or something newer yet smaller?
To be continued…
INCONSIDERATE!
Time: Yesterday afternoon at work…
Colleague [reading from the internet]: A final-year student jumped from a campus block after stabbing a professor .
Me [in a perky tone]: Oh? Is this in America?
Colleague: No. NTU.
I thought only such things would happen in America. I never expected any campus cases as such in Singapore. Not only was the student ‘first class honours material’, he was also in his final year!
The student entered the professor’s office, stabbed him in the back leaving him injured, then slit his wrists and jumped off a five-storey building. There was bloody trail from the office, and blood splatter where the student was found.
It must have been traumatic for students who witnessed the suicide! And a professor injured? At this point in time, no one knows the reason for the stabbing.
Regardless, I believe that it was very inconsiderate of the student to commit suicide in that fashion. And I absolute detest those who commit suicide without thinking of the consequences!
There are family to consider (the student was from Indonesia and his parents must have paid plenty for his education in Singapore), then the bystanders who are left with the shock and trauma of witnessing the suicide, and to bring down someone else with your plight? INCONSIDERATE!
- Especially those who jump in front of oncoming traffic – the poor driver who was on the wrong lane at the wrong time.
- Especially those who jump off buildings, worse in public areas – poor bystanders who’s day have been ruined by such a sighting.
- Especially those who shoots everyone else before shooting himself/herself – ever thought about the other families that will mourn for ages?
INCONSIDERATE.
Colleague [reading from the internet]: A final-year student jumped from a campus block after stabbing a professor .
Me [in a perky tone]: Oh? Is this in America?
Colleague: No. NTU.
I thought only such things would happen in America. I never expected any campus cases as such in Singapore. Not only was the student ‘first class honours material’, he was also in his final year!
The student entered the professor’s office, stabbed him in the back leaving him injured, then slit his wrists and jumped off a five-storey building. There was bloody trail from the office, and blood splatter where the student was found.
It must have been traumatic for students who witnessed the suicide! And a professor injured? At this point in time, no one knows the reason for the stabbing.
Regardless, I believe that it was very inconsiderate of the student to commit suicide in that fashion. And I absolute detest those who commit suicide without thinking of the consequences!
There are family to consider (the student was from Indonesia and his parents must have paid plenty for his education in Singapore), then the bystanders who are left with the shock and trauma of witnessing the suicide, and to bring down someone else with your plight? INCONSIDERATE!
- Especially those who jump in front of oncoming traffic – the poor driver who was on the wrong lane at the wrong time.
- Especially those who jump off buildings, worse in public areas – poor bystanders who’s day have been ruined by such a sighting.
- Especially those who shoots everyone else before shooting himself/herself – ever thought about the other families that will mourn for ages?
INCONSIDERATE.
Friday, February 20, 2009
Buckets of Raine
It's been such a long time since I've balled my eyes out! I don't know how korean's do it, but they just do their melodramatic scenes so well! Especially episode 13 and 14! My tears came down in buckets!
Hana Yori Dango (Korean) is hands down the best version I've seen! The guys are sooooooo yummy, I take back what I said at the start about them not looking the part because they do!
Sorry for those who have absolutely no clue what I'm ranting about, just LET ME RANT. Episode 13 and 14 is the breakup scene that broke all our hearts! To the point where I even wanted Rui to come and put her out of her misery, make her feel better. That was the point I realised how good this Korean version was...that though I wanted Rui to come and save the day (usually I don't like it coz I'm pro Makino and Domyoji), and when he did to my relief, they played it out so well that you didn't find yourself siding with Rui, and instead still rooting for the leads to end up together. That's how well balanced the script was.
When you want them young and mischevious, they do it so well, then you want them handsome and act as heir to huge fortunes and they play the part so well too.
It's impossible to complain, except that I can't wait for Monday and Tuesday to quickly come so that I can watch the next 2 episodes...and the following Monday and Tuesday to quickly come so that I can watch the next next 2 episodes...etc, etc, and etc.
I apologise that you'll have to put up with such posts till the end of the drama because that's probably when I'll stop ranting...
Did I tell you I'm re-reading the comics again? I'm addicted!
Hana Yori Dango (Korean) is hands down the best version I've seen! The guys are sooooooo yummy, I take back what I said at the start about them not looking the part because they do!
Sorry for those who have absolutely no clue what I'm ranting about, just LET ME RANT. Episode 13 and 14 is the breakup scene that broke all our hearts! To the point where I even wanted Rui to come and put her out of her misery, make her feel better. That was the point I realised how good this Korean version was...that though I wanted Rui to come and save the day (usually I don't like it coz I'm pro Makino and Domyoji), and when he did to my relief, they played it out so well that you didn't find yourself siding with Rui, and instead still rooting for the leads to end up together. That's how well balanced the script was.
When you want them young and mischevious, they do it so well, then you want them handsome and act as heir to huge fortunes and they play the part so well too.
It's impossible to complain, except that I can't wait for Monday and Tuesday to quickly come so that I can watch the next 2 episodes...and the following Monday and Tuesday to quickly come so that I can watch the next next 2 episodes...etc, etc, and etc.
I apologise that you'll have to put up with such posts till the end of the drama because that's probably when I'll stop ranting...
Did I tell you I'm re-reading the comics again? I'm addicted!
Naive & me...
I live in my own naïve world…in a world inside a television.
How could I have such a skewed perspective of what a hospital room look like?
Comfortable beds; 1 patient per room, no sharing; Nice sofas for visitors. Courtesy of Meteor Garden (Taiwan), and Boys Before Flowers (Korea), and one NZ hospital I visited someone before.
Today, I went with a colleague to visit another colleague who had been admitted into the hospital because of Dengue. Though the hospital was ‘happening’ – the first word that came to my mind – with lots of people walking around, shops selling bags, accessories, gifts etc, cafes and foodcourts, etc, but when we got to the hospital ward, it was very gloomy and sad.
It wasn’t how I pictured it to be…her room had 5 other patients sharing the space. Around her, the other patients were either sick or old or lonely. There was no air-con, I felt there was no ventilation. The beds were yucky with plastic barriers. You could see what was happening all around you to other patients, basically no privacy. And the smell…like they say “hospital smell”…it was rather claustrophobic. It’s no surprise if patients develop hospital phobia.
I felt weird being there, I felt exposed. I couldn’t imagine how she would be feeling. She moved here from India (first time being away from her parents) and she was alone in the hospital. She told us she felt rather lonely and was very happy to see us. She said this place made her feel even more sick and I could totally understand. I wasn’t a patient and I didn’t like the place at all!
Here’s a picture of the room, taken from the Singapore General Hospital website.
This picture doesn’t look as bad as I make it sound. Definitely the work of photoshop. Coz in reality, the room was not so bright, not so colourful, and not so neat.
Why does it have to be so gloomy? Why does it have to be so sad and make you feel even worse?
But having said this, I understand space is limited (she had to wait 5 hours to have a bed), and quality comes with price. Her’s was classed B2, second cheapest of what was offered. But there are still things you can do to make the place prettier and happier, like a new coat of paint/wallpaper? I don’t know.
I just didn’t like it. How is anyone suppose to get well in such a gloomy place? Especially when you don’t have family with you and you’re all alone?
How could I have such a skewed perspective of what a hospital room look like?
Comfortable beds; 1 patient per room, no sharing; Nice sofas for visitors. Courtesy of Meteor Garden (Taiwan), and Boys Before Flowers (Korea), and one NZ hospital I visited someone before.
Today, I went with a colleague to visit another colleague who had been admitted into the hospital because of Dengue. Though the hospital was ‘happening’ – the first word that came to my mind – with lots of people walking around, shops selling bags, accessories, gifts etc, cafes and foodcourts, etc, but when we got to the hospital ward, it was very gloomy and sad.
It wasn’t how I pictured it to be…her room had 5 other patients sharing the space. Around her, the other patients were either sick or old or lonely. There was no air-con, I felt there was no ventilation. The beds were yucky with plastic barriers. You could see what was happening all around you to other patients, basically no privacy. And the smell…like they say “hospital smell”…it was rather claustrophobic. It’s no surprise if patients develop hospital phobia.
I felt weird being there, I felt exposed. I couldn’t imagine how she would be feeling. She moved here from India (first time being away from her parents) and she was alone in the hospital. She told us she felt rather lonely and was very happy to see us. She said this place made her feel even more sick and I could totally understand. I wasn’t a patient and I didn’t like the place at all!
Here’s a picture of the room, taken from the Singapore General Hospital website.
This picture doesn’t look as bad as I make it sound. Definitely the work of photoshop. Coz in reality, the room was not so bright, not so colourful, and not so neat.
Why does it have to be so gloomy? Why does it have to be so sad and make you feel even worse?
But having said this, I understand space is limited (she had to wait 5 hours to have a bed), and quality comes with price. Her’s was classed B2, second cheapest of what was offered. But there are still things you can do to make the place prettier and happier, like a new coat of paint/wallpaper? I don’t know.
I just didn’t like it. How is anyone suppose to get well in such a gloomy place? Especially when you don’t have family with you and you’re all alone?
Thursday, February 19, 2009
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
YOU SUCK!
To Made-in-China products, YOU SUCK! You’re cheap and disappointing! Don’t you ever have QC? Don’t you have a sense of ethics? Don’t you want to be the best? URGH!
I’ve lost sleep because of you! I paid USD 2 each for 500pcs of compact mirrors for work, and I expected the quality to be much better! URGH, now, not only am I worried our clients will complain about your quality, I’m worried that my boss is disappointed in me!
URGH! Does it hurt to be of better quality? Does it hurt to be of higher perceived value? Your website looks so good, your pictures look so pretty, EVERYTHING IS DECEIVING!!
YOU SUCK!
I’ve lost sleep because of you! I paid USD 2 each for 500pcs of compact mirrors for work, and I expected the quality to be much better! URGH, now, not only am I worried our clients will complain about your quality, I’m worried that my boss is disappointed in me!
URGH! Does it hurt to be of better quality? Does it hurt to be of higher perceived value? Your website looks so good, your pictures look so pretty, EVERYTHING IS DECEIVING!!
YOU SUCK!
Monday, February 02, 2009
Re: I love 꽃보다 남자
Dear Director Jun Ki Sang and Screenwriter Yoon Ji Ryun,
I’m a huge fan of Hana Yori Dango, and I’ve read the Japanese comics, watched the Japanese animation, fell in love with the Taiwanese drama followed by the Japanese drama. I was recently told there the Korean drama is currently airing in Korea (only 8 out of 24 episodes have been aired) and I couldn’t give it a miss!
As I live in Singapore, I can only watch it online. Last Saturday night, I was so addicted to your drama that I watched all 8 episodes straight, from 11.30pm till 7am on Sunday morning.
I would like to commend you on your fantastic choice of locations! Korea is so beautiful in winter! I absolutely love the fact that you captured the wealth of the Tsukasa group! I found the Taiwanese and Japanese drama did not do justice to realise the extent of wealth this group of F4 possesses! Your drama blew me away, especially with the entrance of Domyoji in a helicopter, the majestic school and amazing classroom of the F4, complete with well-crafted desks, laptops, etc. LOVE!
As for the actors, good choice! Initially I thought they looked a little older, definitely not high school age. But as I watched your drama, I slowly disregarded the age difference as I fell in love with them!
I absolutely love Domyoji or as you named him Goo Joon Pyo! Initially, I thought he was rather mature looking, and his permed hair was rather hilarious. But he acted fantastically and brought out the childlike nature of Domyoji, yet with his mature actions of protective love!
I also applaud you for your choice of the actor playing the role of Hanazawa Rui. He was very charming and when he smiled, it melted hearts. However, I’m a die-hard Domyoji fan so I didn’t like the parts where Makino Tsukushi was with Rui because it was all too sweet! It got me wincing and pining for Makino to return to Domyoji, which seemed like forever!
As for Makino aka Jan Di, I think her character was portrayed a little weak. The actress didn’t look tough or strong enough to battle Domyoji, unlike the comic book Domyoji, who was a little rougher around the edges. I find Jan Di too fair and sweet in appearance to play the determined weed!
The actors who played Soujirou and Akira did a great job too! Their smiles are definitely playboy worthy!
And your choice of supporting actors – one word – BRILLANCE! The beautiful first love of Rui, played by actress cum model Han Chae Young lived up to her beautiful reputation! Jan Di’s best friend was as cute as portrayed in the comics and Jan Di’s younger brother is sooooooooo adorable!
I can’t wait to watch the rest of the episodes and buy the DVD when it’s finally released!!!
Love,
Raine
I’m a huge fan of Hana Yori Dango, and I’ve read the Japanese comics, watched the Japanese animation, fell in love with the Taiwanese drama followed by the Japanese drama. I was recently told there the Korean drama is currently airing in Korea (only 8 out of 24 episodes have been aired) and I couldn’t give it a miss!
As I live in Singapore, I can only watch it online. Last Saturday night, I was so addicted to your drama that I watched all 8 episodes straight, from 11.30pm till 7am on Sunday morning.
I would like to commend you on your fantastic choice of locations! Korea is so beautiful in winter! I absolutely love the fact that you captured the wealth of the Tsukasa group! I found the Taiwanese and Japanese drama did not do justice to realise the extent of wealth this group of F4 possesses! Your drama blew me away, especially with the entrance of Domyoji in a helicopter, the majestic school and amazing classroom of the F4, complete with well-crafted desks, laptops, etc. LOVE!
As for the actors, good choice! Initially I thought they looked a little older, definitely not high school age. But as I watched your drama, I slowly disregarded the age difference as I fell in love with them!
I absolutely love Domyoji or as you named him Goo Joon Pyo! Initially, I thought he was rather mature looking, and his permed hair was rather hilarious. But he acted fantastically and brought out the childlike nature of Domyoji, yet with his mature actions of protective love!
I also applaud you for your choice of the actor playing the role of Hanazawa Rui. He was very charming and when he smiled, it melted hearts. However, I’m a die-hard Domyoji fan so I didn’t like the parts where Makino Tsukushi was with Rui because it was all too sweet! It got me wincing and pining for Makino to return to Domyoji, which seemed like forever!
As for Makino aka Jan Di, I think her character was portrayed a little weak. The actress didn’t look tough or strong enough to battle Domyoji, unlike the comic book Domyoji, who was a little rougher around the edges. I find Jan Di too fair and sweet in appearance to play the determined weed!
The actors who played Soujirou and Akira did a great job too! Their smiles are definitely playboy worthy!
And your choice of supporting actors – one word – BRILLANCE! The beautiful first love of Rui, played by actress cum model Han Chae Young lived up to her beautiful reputation! Jan Di’s best friend was as cute as portrayed in the comics and Jan Di’s younger brother is sooooooooo adorable!
I can’t wait to watch the rest of the episodes and buy the DVD when it’s finally released!!!
Love,
Raine
Friday, January 30, 2009
HANA YORI DANGO!!!
October 1992 marked the start of of Hana Yori Dango the comic book.
Following that in September of 1996, the Japanese animation was released.
Then, in April 2001, Taiwan released their own TV drama based on the comics, calling it “Meteor Garden”, followed by “Meteor Garden II” in November 2002.
In October 2005, Japan got their act together and released their own TV drama, with part 2 following in January 2007. They also proceeded to film a movie, released in June 2008.
And when you thought it all was coming to an end…Korea brought it all back to life in January 2009, releasing their own TV drama series.
I love the comics where your imagination could run wild and the most outrageous things happened. I love the Taiwanese TV drama series, which brought the comics to life! I fell for the Japan TV drama series, because afterall, Japan was where it all started. I’ve currently started watching the Korean TV drama series as it is still airing in Korea, so I’m unable to come to a conclusion yet, but GOODNESS, the Korean version pushed the boundaries of EXPENSIVE LUXURY to proportions that the other versions didn't or couldn't!
Though every version is slightly different from each other and from the original comics, but one thing remains the same...the poor girl Makino Tsukushi who finds herself entangled in the group of 4 handsomely rich boys who call themselves the F4.
Introducing Tsukushi Makino in her many appearances across Asia...
Holding firm on Makino's character as a tough and independent girl who stands up to her rights, I award Japan's Makino with best actress. She's small but tough, cute but not exceptionally beautiful, and young. The Taiwanese and Korean actresses didn't make my age cut...
And now, introducing the famous F4!!! Which group do you think looks the best together?
From the anime (left to right): Akira Mimasaka, Rui Hanazawa, Tsukasa Doumyouji, Soujirou Nishikado
From Taiwan (left to right): Soujirou Nishikado, Tsukasa Doumyouji, Akira Mimasaka, Rui Hanazawa
From Japan (left to right): Soujirou Nishikado, Rui Hanazawa, Tsukasa Doumyouji, Akira Mimasaka
From Korea (left to right): Soujirou Nishikado, Akira Mimasaka, Tsukasa Doumyouji, Rui Hanazawa
To me, the anime F4 are a little to skinny to my liking, the most muscular are the Taiwanese group, though in terms of looks, the fall behind the sauve Japanese F4, but the Koreans simple look too old to be college students, though their uniforms are to die for!
So, now let's dig deeper and analyse each F4 character, starting with...DUH...Tsukasa Doumyouji, the leader of F4...
My favourite Doumyouji is still Taiwan's (though Japan's comes close too). He's got the look, the muscles and the style! And check out Korea's (bottom right), what's up with his maggie mee hairdo!! GROSS!
As for the quiet but sophisticated Rui Hanazawa...
Japan is the winner! He's moody, but totally cute! And has that can't care look that is soooo Rui! And as usual, I'd like to diss Korea's one...too feminine for F4, though, there's a reason the 'F' stands for 'Flower' - as pretty as 'Flowers'!!!
And last but not least, the duo Soujirou Nishikado & Akira Mimasaka...
I like Taiwan's Akira for his supportive yet playful personality, and in terms of looks, Korea's Soujirou, though I haven't seen him in action yet so I don't know how well he plays that character.
So having said all this, I would like to wrap up with my dream team!
What are your takes?
Following that in September of 1996, the Japanese animation was released.
Then, in April 2001, Taiwan released their own TV drama based on the comics, calling it “Meteor Garden”, followed by “Meteor Garden II” in November 2002.
In October 2005, Japan got their act together and released their own TV drama, with part 2 following in January 2007. They also proceeded to film a movie, released in June 2008.
And when you thought it all was coming to an end…Korea brought it all back to life in January 2009, releasing their own TV drama series.
I love the comics where your imagination could run wild and the most outrageous things happened. I love the Taiwanese TV drama series, which brought the comics to life! I fell for the Japan TV drama series, because afterall, Japan was where it all started. I’ve currently started watching the Korean TV drama series as it is still airing in Korea, so I’m unable to come to a conclusion yet, but GOODNESS, the Korean version pushed the boundaries of EXPENSIVE LUXURY to proportions that the other versions didn't or couldn't!
Though every version is slightly different from each other and from the original comics, but one thing remains the same...the poor girl Makino Tsukushi who finds herself entangled in the group of 4 handsomely rich boys who call themselves the F4.
Introducing Tsukushi Makino in her many appearances across Asia...
Holding firm on Makino's character as a tough and independent girl who stands up to her rights, I award Japan's Makino with best actress. She's small but tough, cute but not exceptionally beautiful, and young. The Taiwanese and Korean actresses didn't make my age cut...
And now, introducing the famous F4!!! Which group do you think looks the best together?
From the anime (left to right): Akira Mimasaka, Rui Hanazawa, Tsukasa Doumyouji, Soujirou Nishikado
From Taiwan (left to right): Soujirou Nishikado, Tsukasa Doumyouji, Akira Mimasaka, Rui Hanazawa
From Japan (left to right): Soujirou Nishikado, Rui Hanazawa, Tsukasa Doumyouji, Akira Mimasaka
From Korea (left to right): Soujirou Nishikado, Akira Mimasaka, Tsukasa Doumyouji, Rui HanazawaTo me, the anime F4 are a little to skinny to my liking, the most muscular are the Taiwanese group, though in terms of looks, the fall behind the sauve Japanese F4, but the Koreans simple look too old to be college students, though their uniforms are to die for!
So, now let's dig deeper and analyse each F4 character, starting with...DUH...Tsukasa Doumyouji, the leader of F4...
My favourite Doumyouji is still Taiwan's (though Japan's comes close too). He's got the look, the muscles and the style! And check out Korea's (bottom right), what's up with his maggie mee hairdo!! GROSS!
As for the quiet but sophisticated Rui Hanazawa...
Japan is the winner! He's moody, but totally cute! And has that can't care look that is soooo Rui! And as usual, I'd like to diss Korea's one...too feminine for F4, though, there's a reason the 'F' stands for 'Flower' - as pretty as 'Flowers'!!!
And last but not least, the duo Soujirou Nishikado & Akira Mimasaka...
I like Taiwan's Akira for his supportive yet playful personality, and in terms of looks, Korea's Soujirou, though I haven't seen him in action yet so I don't know how well he plays that character.
So having said all this, I would like to wrap up with my dream team!
What are your takes?
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