Banana Walnut Cake

Walnuts are a good source of brain food and I bought one pack recently. Wanted to snack on it as a healthier alternative but I still prefer my chips..Heeheez...

With so much walnuts leftover, I then decided to bake a banana walnut cake. This is my first try at baking after so many many years. My first time baking using the new oven in my place too.

I sourced the internet and youtube for days on making this simple cake.. Hahaha...got tempted to try Christmas cookies, cupcakes with Xmas deco, muffins etc...they all looked so nice! I shall try all those one day! (I think the baking bug bite me!)

So on 23rd Dec, I head down to the supermart after work and bought the stuff. Went home and started on the cake! It does taste decent enough, though I prefer it to be a little bit fluffier. Next time, I should set the oven temperature higher too cause the cake did not rise high enough.

After baking the cake, I went on to marinate the wings for the Xmas party at Bernz place on 24th. By 11.30pm, I was so shag from the bustle in the kitchen but looking forward to the Xmas parties the next few days!

Here's the picture of the Banana Walnut Cake.
Before:


After:

Time REALLY flies. Unknowingly, I am in my 7th month. No, it should not be unknowingly. Because the weight is getting heavier. I can feel the heaviness of the tummy lurking all around me nowadays.
The frequent visits to the toilets are coming back, just like how it was in the 1st trimester.
Getting up from the bed or from the couch also take extra effort now.
At times like this, I wish that Xavier can come out faster, but i know once he is out, there will be a greater set of new problems. I hope these will be happy problems.

My mood swings are also back.

Or maybe it has been here all this while. I hate myself for the frequent and immature outburst of emotions.

To others, it seems like such a small tiny matter, but I myself cannot even handle it. Be it work, personal or family. Everything is spiralling downwards.
I also hate my workplace. There's no privacy. For someone that cannot be a pokerface, I always wear my emotions on my sleeve. And I do not like it that people can see it.
Bad things always come together. This morning, the most hated client called me. After 5 mins of a fusturating coversation, the 2nd line on my office phone ring. and who else can it be but of course, the bane of my life. I really really hate her. I don't know why. It shudders me to think about my next year plans once I finish my maternity leave. I have to see her everyday. If Biggie were to read this, she will be so puzzled. She will tell me its all in my mind. If I choose to 看开一点， peace will be with me. Life will be much better. Afterall, she has been very nice towards me already.

This whole week has been fraught with unhappiness. Even the most anticipated outing at ICB turn out to be a major flop. I was crying for one hour at the back alley of ICB. The drizzle last evening seem to make me feel worse.
I have a bad habit of running away everytime. Happened at ICB last night, happened everytime I quarrel with Greg in public places, even happened once in my in-laws place just before dinner was served.
And it also happen all the time in office. I will slam the phone down loud, take my stuff and go on "flight". This is bad, I know.
Lack of maturity, selfish and childish acts. Firstly, it does not improve the situation. Secondly, I may affect others' with my bad mood behaviour.
Thirdly, it does not reflect well on me. Sometimes I look into the mirror and when I see the cruxifix hanging on my neck, I feel ashamed.

There are so so so many cases where I lose it, only to regret my rash actions after cooling down. I should learn to be like Biggie. calm and composed.
Yesterday, she referred a friend to open an account with me. Her friend was going on and on and on about how mild-tempered and nice person Biggie is.
I agree. If only I have half of her calm and rational qualities.

Everyone has been telling me to be happy cause it affects the baby. A happy and smiling baby is what everyone wants. Who don't want that?
Maybe I should try harder again. Yes, I can and will be happy. Nothing is unsolvable in this world. My problems...NAH! what problems are those?! It is just bad anger management on my part. Learn to calm myself down first everytime I feel the anger coming. Then, talk positvely to the mind. It will help.
I am reaching 30 years old, so please think like an adult. Life has been good to me. Even UBFF says I have got an almost perfect life and should be happy about it. True, I have a complete and loving family. My husband is the best husband in the world. I have a smooth and good pregnancy so far.
Everything is good at work and I have great colleagues. I have very nice and caring friends, who are always there to take my nonsense. Am I taking all this for granted?

3 more months and the baby will be out. Maybe its the impending pressure. Maybe its the stress of seeing everything unsettled.
Or maybe, why not; its just me?
I need to learn fast. Because there will be much much more stress once the baby is out. I can't imagine.....

Yesterday, I returned a half-read book. "The girl who has the dragon tattoo". It got too violent and was quite RA as well. I reckon that it won't do a pregnant woman any good reading such contents. I switched it to "Eat, pray, love". Think I will like the latter much more.
I like a good read. It transports me to another world, away from the harsh reality of life for that moment.

Emotional control is an art and i have yet to master it.
There are too many things, too many people, too many sticky situations to deal with in life.
That is why holidays are the best. A relaxing holiday to a quiet destination with no cares in the world.

I do not really like dealing with family members and even friends. When things are rosy, all is good. But sometimes, it is hard to be firm on them when you have to say "NO".
I am just bad at it. That is also why I admire those who can do it easily.

I also HATE dealing with obnoxious people. There are people who suck up to you because of that little bit more money that you have, but unfortunately, I am not one of them. Because you have that BIT more amount of money than others, you expect a higher level of service. I do not mind giving better service to deserving people, but do not expect good service with an arrogant and mighty attitude.
You are working with a fellow human being, not a machine. Show respect and humility towards fellow beings and the world will be a better place to live in.

At this juncture, I like to quote a liner from Mitch Albom "Have a little Faith" - "What gains a man if he profits the whole world but loses his soul". - It's really a food for thought book.
(I think it is time for me to read the book again)

Therefore, when I am met with someone of the above two combination, I just go ARGH!
The devil in me tells me to unleash the anger and frustration in me... and every time I want to do so, I will and must think of other more sensible ways to overcome this barrier in me.
I may call my big sis to rant on it and usually, she can give me very good advice. Some people are just more cool-headed and calm, and I am not one of them.
I will also think of this sentence that Greg always say to me, "I can never control what others do or talk, but I can control MYSELF".
Yes, self-control is the crux here. There are so many kinds of people out there and some people are just too irritated to live with. Its a kind of human chemistry but everyone does face it. Whether at the workplace, home, club, social gathering. We cannot control such irritating people, but YES, we can CONTROL OUR own emotions.

Expectations. It all boils down to expectations. The haughty customer expect a certain level of service whereas the service provider expect her clients to be kinder, nicer, more understanding. There must be a meeting point somewhere in between, for if not, emotional outburst will happen.

And I have to repeat to myself something that my sister once said, " ...its my own thinking and perceptions, which are laced with expectations. when all these conditions are not met, feelings of anger and disappointment surface" Therefore, I have to be flexible and tune my thoughts and mind a little and life goes on...happily ever after.

Happily ever after.............

Departure Gates

Everytime I travel, it's always a nice feeling to walk through the departure gates of any airport.
At Changi Airport, the feeling is usually good because I am a step nearer to my holiday destination. Furthurmore, the carpeted floor at the immigration, the big brand names of tax-free shopping is so welcoming.

At overseas' airports, the feeling is also good because I am heading back Home Sweet Home. No matter how much fun I had during the holiday, nothing beats HOME.

However, I have come to realise that there are moments of saddness at departure gates too. I have never experienced it until someone close chose to walk through that gate. Once you witness the "crossing over" to the other side, everything seems really far. We were just seperated by a glass wall, but it is a true real case of "So near, yet so far".
Of course, on the lighter side, there will be goodness coming out of this temporary seperation and hope that everything will work out smooth and good for her.
Luckily, we have the Internet now and contact is seamless with the likes of Facebook, MSN, Skype etc.
And I think that we are considered very lucky in Singapore as our departure gates are pretty much "happy-looking". Not just plain old walls or metal gates with glass panels. That will be really sad.

Anyway, life goes on as usual and I can't help but think of a song at this point in time.

Dedicated to my little sister:
放心离开我
我会记得这一刻
那些还飞翔着，
不可思议的梦

雨后的天空
会有深蓝的彩虹
像最初相信着，
我们总会找到自由。。。

Little Mango

I am approaching my 20th week soon. Time really flies. It only seems like yesterday when I just learnt about my pregnancy but I am already half-way thru!

The iphone app says that the little living thing inside me now is as big as a mango, measuring 16.5 cm and weighing 0.28kg.

Hmmm, I have gained around 6kg till date...and if the baby is not even 1kg, I wonder where all the weight gain goes to! *SHUDDERS!!!*
The average ideal weight gain is around 13-16 kg which means I have another 10 more kg to gain... OMG! These days, I am starting to show..no more hiding behind flowy dresses. My tummy is getting really big and the bump is getting obvious. Besides this, I also feel myself expanding... ARGH! Hates flabby arms and thunder thighs!

Anyway, I should not be complaining. Weight Gain is necessary during pregnancy. Just concentrate on eating healthy food will do.

We have thought of a few names... I like Joshua..He have chosen Xavier... I think both are nice... Hmmmmm....

The deposit for the confinement lady has also been paid. It's a recommendation by Audrey's sister. Hope she is good.

I have also signed up for childbirth education course starting in Oct. Looking forward to it!

Think somewhere in Nov, I will take a short break and go for a Babymoon! Really need one now..before the baby comes along!

Then for the last 3 months, it will be time to think about decos for the nursury room, lots and lots of baby stuff shopping ...

Thats about it..nothing much for this post.just want to run thru some of the random things in my head. At least, I kinda get a timeline and a clearer picture of what's to-dos now.

Tata!!

@ 17 weeks..

Measuring 10+ cm and weighing 0.14kg, you are now as big as a Turnip!

Cutez!

We went for the scan on Monday and it showed a BOY! Both of us prefer a boy although we will be equally happy if it's a girl. When the screen shows that important "part" sticking out between his legs, we were really happy and thrilled!

And of course, the most important thing is that the baby is good and healthy.

Well, so I guess I can paste Raymond Lam's photos everywhere and look at them. According to folktales, a baby will turn out good-looking if the Mum looks at beautiful people. Hahhahaa!!!

Now is also the time to brain-storm for boy names...ARGH!!!! *PULL HAIR*

Matthew 19:6.

What God has joined, let not man divide.

I read a note from Facebook today. It was a touching story about a 10 year old married couple. Their marriage has strayed and the ending was pretty touching and sad.
What strikes me the most was this proverb from Mathew 19:6. "What God has joined, let not man divide".

Indeed, a marriage is one of the sacraments in the Catholic faith. It is holy and is treated with utmost importance.
But of course, every relationship takes two hands to clap. It also needs a lot of understanding and communication. And the most important thing is that little spark. I like to term it as "friendship".
I am no love guru, so I have no intention to turn this post into a 101 Guide on Relationships.
In fact, every kind of relationship needs some working on. Parent vs Child. Siblings, Couple, husband and wife, friends etc.

I often tell Greg that we have to practice "friendship" in our marriage. Good friends with a hint of Romanticism. Good Friends whom support each other thru the years. Lots of communication and sharing, where possible.
Of course, there are times of quarrels and arguments. But at the end of the day, you always know that this good friend is the one who understands you most. Its not easy cause simply put, men and women are made up differently. So the difficulty to handling different mindsets is to establish that line of equilibrium.

Cheers!

家常小菜

some stuff I cooked up over the last few nights .. :)

1. Sesame Oil Chicken
- Marinate chicken pieces with soya sauce, oyster sauce, chinese wine, pepper, sesame oil and salt.
- Stir fry ginger slices with sesame oil
- Pour in chicken slices with marinade
- Add dried lily buds and button mushrooms
- Cover lid and let the dish simmer for 15 mins.
- Serve warm


2. Pig Stomach Soup
- Wash the pig stomach well and clean.
- Scald pork meat
- Put pork meat, pig stomach, garlic cloves, peppercorn seeds into a pot of boiling water and cook for 2-3 hrs.



3. Old Cucumber Soup
- Cut old cucumber into chunks
- Bring a pot of water to boil. Add in scaled pork meat, old cucumber, red dates, dried scallops (4-5pcs).
- Simmer for 2-3 hours on low heat and add in salt to taste before serving.



4. Bittergourd Soup with Minced Pork and Egg flower
- A very simple soup that is fast to cook.
- Prepare ikan bills stock
- Once stock is boiled , add in bittergourd slices and minced pork (shaped into balls)
- Once everything floats, add in a beaten egg
- Serve hot

Comfort food on a Mon night

My dinner for monday night.

Macaroni soup with watever ingredients I can find in the fridge. And always with lots of chilli padi.

Dinner @ Chai Chee

Chai Chee refers to the new lovely nest of Gerald and Martina!

Yes, after bunking in with us for 2 months, their cosy home is ready and they moved in during the National Day weekend. The 2 months were really nice and sweet. We had World Cup and supper sessions together (contributing to my weight gain!), yummy home-cooked food for dinner and many nice outings.

Anyway, Gerald decided to do crabs! So,we went to Tekka Market to shop for their famous crabs.
I must say the range of seafood stalls there were really impressive. The min I step in, i felt such a strong whiff of "seafood and fish" smell that I felt like puking. Luckily, I could take the smell after a while.
We got 3 female crabs and they were very active and alive!
Cooked half portion in chilli crab sauce and the other half, steamed with Chinese Wine (Hua Tiao Jiu). It was really finger-licking good as the crab meat was so fresh and juicy!

The couple also cooked a few other dishes and Martina boil my favourite Lotus Root Soup.

Here are the pictures to make you go hungry again...

Mushroom Aglio Olio

MY FAV!!!!

Hahahhaa, one of my fav food is pasta and among the many kinds of pastas, I love aglio olio the best.

My personal fav will be spagetti or linguine, cooked al dente.
Tossed in olive oil, stir-fry with fresh garlic and chilli, this carbo meal just pack a punch.
You can try the simple receipe below. Add in your preferred toppings (prawns, bacons or mushrooms) and a healthy nice meal is completed!

Btw, this version is mushroom aglio olio.

1. Bring water to a boil first. Once the water in boiled, drizzle some oil and salt into the saucepan of boiling water. Add in the pasta and cook till al dente.
2. Heat up a frying pan. Once the pan is hot, add in some olive oil.
3. Stir fry freshly chopped garlic and chilli. If you are a chilli-eater like me, you can try adding in chilli padi. I usually add in 3-4 pieces. SHIOK!
4. Fry for 2-3 mins until the aroma surfaces.
5. Add in mushrooms (other ingredients that you may like) and stir fry for another 1 min.
6. Add in the cooked pasta and give everything a good stir.
7. Dish onto a serving plate and serve warm. Garnish with chilli flakes if you prefer.



SSSSLLLLLURRRRPPPPPPS!!!

Changing perspectives

This morning, I went into Facebook and saw the photos my friends put up over the weekend.
They looked like they had lots of fun. The friends, the place, the alcohol and the craziness.

Well, there is certainly a pinch of bitterness inside me. I used to be part of that fun. Living life crazily and not caring about anything else.
When I was single or married with no kids, life was certainly a lot easier. No worries on anything. We were just two free souls with no cares in the world. Get happily crazily drunk and enjoy all the fun. Tomorrow will come by itself.

However, all this is going to change. A baby is coming along and this new life will be making lots and lots of adjustments to our lives.

Those drinking sessions will be cut.
The outings with friends will be cut.
Travel plans will be adjusted.
Weekends will not be the same again.
Week nights will be spent minding the baby.
Maybe even watching movies at cinemas may be a hassle. Imagining the baby crying and wailing in the theatre. OUCH!

Just like how this poem sums up (I qoute):
‎"A child will make love stronger, days shorter, nights longer, bankroll smaller, home happier, clothes shabbier, the past forgotten and the future worth living for"

Yes, Home Happier and the Future worth living for.

There are no regrets or feelings of resentment towards this new life that I am going to embark on. It is a phase in my life that I should feel proud of. After enjoying marriage and couple-hood for past 3 years, it's finally time to settle down and form a family. I can't be having fun forever. Besides, I am not getting any younger.

Its amazing that there is a life, a real living thing inside me. And this little thing will be a symbol of our love. He or She will carry a little of our traits each and will be the growing motivation for us.

And I wait for the day this little living thing pops out into the world and greets me with a loud wail.
Till then, I shall enjoy the bump on my tummy for the next 6 months....

OOPS

Apologies for the confusion!

My last few posts were dated some time back. I could not post it as I wanted to openly delcare the pregnancy after passing the 1st trimester.
Today is in fact the 15th week and nope, not week 10.

:) Happy Reading!

Week 10

Hi Baby! You’re 10 weeks old today!
Mummy and Daddy can’t wait to announce to the world once you are past 12 weeks! I always imagine how you look like now in my tummy. Are you growing well, sleeping well, etc etc etc?

Mummy can’t wait for the Bangkok trip this month end! I shall go on a shopping and eating spree! Praying for a strong stomach to take in all the spiciness and food stuffs from the streets of Bangkok!
The next time I see you will be on 29th July – oscar test for down syndrome. Praying hard that everything will be good and well, yeah.
Once back from Bangkok, we will have the gynae appt on the 2nd August. Daddy is on leave that day and guess what?! After the appt, Mummy will bring Daddy and little Baby for a nice dinner to celebrate Daddy’s BIG 30 on 3rd August (as well as mummy’s last 20-something on 4th august).

I have googled for SG TOP 10 Most Romantic Restaurants this morning and have screened down to a few: IL Lido at Sentosa, Gunthers at Purvis, Flutes at the Fort @ Fort Canning, another one @ Rochester Park… Hmmmmm….yum yum yum…. Whatever it is, the birthday dinner shall be made complete with a birthday song and a molton choclate lava cake for Daddy Greg!

A mum gotta do what a mum gotta do.

I have been told that I am supposed to abstain from raw sashimi, raw meat, and even half-boiled eggs.
So no more sushi, no more steak medium-rare.

On top of that, I have stopped taking in coffee.  I always love eating my breakkies with hot warm coffee. But for now, I will have to switch to milk.

Oh MILK. Eeewsssss… I HATE MILK.
I am slowly taking chocolate milk and soya bean milk for now first.

A big no-no is also ciggies and alcohol.
I kinda miss those days where I could hang out after work. A pint of two, some puff puff to distress. OK, enuff said…. Having said that, I don’t feel tempted to go for drinks anymore. Ahh…mother’s instinct is really powerful. Hehe

Running
How to run when I can’t even walk fast? Looks like I am not going for the GE Women’s Run this year.

There are many other funny theories out there. Some makes sense whereas a big portion is also based on superstition.

Sometimes it’s quite funny to read up on such stuff. You’ll be amazed.

Are preggies more paranoid?

On my very first visit, Dr Woo told me I am between 4-6 weeks. He reminded me to be careful all the time as the pregnancy is still in early stages and its very fragile.
I am quite clumsy by nature. Although I can’t really strut well in my 4-inches, I still love wearing them. Well, it gives me the illusion that I am slim and tall. :P

Nowadays, I have cleaned and kept my 4 inches in my shoe cupboard. Well, I still have my 3-inches! I have started to walk slower and be more careful too.

Anyway, it’s still early so I can always switch to flats at a later stage.

Sometimes I wonder if I am getting a little overly-worried over nothing. The more I read up, the more confusing I get.
Most preggies around this stage will be suffering from morning sickness, food aversions, tiredness and all that.
But, I do not have all these feelings at all!
I am still eating what I used to eat. I don’t have that feeling to throw up anytime of the day.
Hmmm, yes I do feel slightly more tired than before but its not really much. The only change, well, I think my boobies grew quite a bit.
I hope everything stays that way! I may be just one of those lucky ones!

But sometimes, without all these signs, it makes me wonder if my baby is growing well inside.
Can’t wait for the next gynae appt to hear my BB’s heartbeat!

“But the good news is you’re pregnant!”

Yes yes yes!! I am pregnant!

It came as a total surprise for us.
Rewind back 3 months ago, on 8th June 2010.

7th June, Monday
I was getting very bored in the office and decided to surf on pregnancy stuff. Afterall, we have been trying for a baby for almost 9 months, albeit on very irregular basis. Hahaha (do i sound defensive?)
So, I went googled here and wikied there, and landed myself in www.sgmotherhood.com forum. It was really informative. I myself am also not sure why I will surf such info on a Monday, but I am putting it down to Mother’s instincts. I mean, I can always Facebook or start some silly Farmville, right?

As the day was about to end, I decided to apply for leave on Tuesday.
And so, on Monday night, I went for my usual drinks. After a few rounds of beer at the usual haunts, I went home, had a good sleep all the way till late Tuesday morning. I still remember I bought supper home to eat.

When I woke up on Tue morning, I actually planned to just laze around or go shopping. But for some reason, I decided to make a trip down to the nearest gynecologist. I went online and surf and make an appointment with Dr Woo Bit Hwa of Thomson Medical Centre. His clinic is located at Tiong Bahru Plaza, Central Plaza and he was highly recommended by many mummies in the forum.

It also so happened that Greg took leave that day as well. He was not feeling too well and called in MC on that very morning. Hence, it was a perfect day for us both to see the gynae.

And so, on 8th June, both of us went into the clinic with a blurry eye and explained to Dr Woo our “problem”. I told him about my irregular cycles and we were planning for one. The idea was for him to prescribe some medication that can help regulate my cycle, (hopefully) making baby-making a easier process.

He asked me some basic questions about my last cycle date. It was on 25th April. In fact, according to my iphone app, my menses was supposed to start 2nd June. So, I was 6 days late. But I thought nothing much of it since I am usually late.

Then, Dr Woo directed me to the scan machine. I was supposed to lie on the bed and he will do the scan. Dearest Greg, of all times, then left the room as he was going to see the GP, which was sharing the same clinic Dr Woo.
The nurse even asked me why he don’t want to stay to see and I kinda replied, “cause I think there’s nothing much to see.” (I wasn't expecting anything!)

It was my first experience doing this whole ultrasound scan and it was kinda cute.
Dr Woo smeared some KY jelly over my lower abdomen area and the scanning started. I was starting to feel ticklish and I kept giggling to myself.

Dr Woo then said…:” Hmmm, you bladder doesn’t seem very full ..”
I said sheepishly, “ Erm yes, I went to the ladies just now.” (I was supposed to have a full bladder)
Dr Woo: “ But the good news is…You’re PREGNANT!”
Me: “OMG!” Are you sure?”
Me: “Oh shit! I just drank and smoke yesterday!”
Me: “Are you sure, are you sure?” “OH! Is it that little black dot here?” “That’s my baby?” (pointing to the sac)
I think I was caught with surprise and was blabbing all the way. However, I do think that on some days, I was having the slightest thought that I might just be preggies!
Sometimes, I was also imagining my reaction at the gynae upon hearing the positive news.

And so, yes! I am PREGNANT. It’s a big fat positive!

Wellies!!

Recently, the weather here have gone a little bit bonkers.

Just around one month back, we were faced with scorching heat from the glaring sun and very bad humidity levels.

However, recently there has been a spate of heavy downpour, occasionally accompanied by gusty winds.
It created serious flash floods around us and if you happen to be trapped in one of those places, good luck to you.

So i guess, is it a good time to invest in one of these pair of wellington boots? They look good worn with a simple tee and jeans tucked in and help to keep us dry in those wild wet days!!

At least, your shoes will not be soaking wet walking down Orchard Road on a rainy day again.
:P:P

Purvis Street (Yhingthai Palace)

Not many people know where exactly Purvis Street is.

Well, this street is a small lane, with good restaurants and eateries lined up on both sides of the lane.

The first restaurant to see once you enter Purvis street by foot will be Yhingthai Palace. He used to work here many years ago, while doing part-time. This Thai restaurant packs some really good authentic Thai food. Victor, the boss's son aka Xiao Towkay is our long-time friend and dining at their restaurant is always a good catch-up session.

After Yhingtai (Thai food), you will find Italian, French and some chinese restaurants down the same side of the lane. There is the famous Garibaldi Italian Restaurant. If you love beef noodles, then you got to walk down a little bit more to try the famous Hock Lam Street beef noodles. This outlet is the original store and i love the old-school feel about it.

Talking about old-school, ahhhh....the most retro one can ever find will be Yet Con. The floor titles are 70s mosaic style, and the whole interior is really 70s style. No fancy furnishings, but their Hainanese steamboat is enough to rock your day!
Another thai eatery at Purvis is also First Thai, which is a cosy cafe style that serves very decent thai dishes.

At the other side of the lane, you will find the long-time favourite Hainanese Zhi-char coffeehouse, Chin Chin Eating House. This place serves really good chicken rice, Hainanese pork chops and other zhichar dishes. Prices are very reasonable as well! Used to be one of our favourite haunts when we were dating back then. Joewe and Dajie once ate there with me and we ordered a whole hell lot of food!

The last eatery we liked much is Shinroyku Yakitori Jap Resturant.
It is a small outfit and is real popular, so reservations are a must if you do not wish to be disappointed. They serve pretty decent sashimi. However, they are most famous for their charcoal-grilled yakitori.

Back those dating days, we frequent Purvis street a lot as it was directly opposite Bras Basah Complex (his parent's place). We can be so spoilt for dinner choices every weekend.
Now that I revisit Purvis Street last sat, it brings back so much of those memories. The pool places that we visit around the corner, the ktv pubs for us to go crooning away on sat nights..and of course, the foodie places we loved.
Its just a small street but its packed with huge action.

Shall end my post here with some pictures of the food we ate at Yhingtai.
Bro keith and Dasao joined us so the portions are for 4!
This post is making me hungry!!

Book Review: The Monk who sold his Ferrari

I think twice about picking up this book initally because i felt that the title was a little 做作。

But it proved me wrong.

As the book cover says, it is a spiritual fable about fulfiling your dreams and reaching your destination.
The story kickstarts with the life of a high-profile lawyer, who one day, collsape in the courtroom due to overwork and the highly stresses of life. He then decides to take a hiatus and go on a spiritual trip to Himalayas to look for the Sages to seek for a purpose in life.

Then upon meeting the Sages, they presented him with some images that talks about the wisdom of life. Behind every image is some simple truth that we have been finding it so difficult to grapple with.

1. The Garden.
The first image was a garden. A beautiful lovely garden. Well-kept and maintaned. This garden represents our MIND.
Just like how the gardener takes care of a lovely garden, we have to take care of our mind by nuturing it. The first basic step is to only let positive thoughts flow through the mind. Easy? It seems easy but the challenge comes when one is in times of adversity, negative thoughts rampaged the mind very fast, just like how the weeds grow and grow in a unkempt garden.
I guess this is something similar to why we usually find it easier to complain and criticise than to give thanks and feel content.
Therefore, every single time you realise you are thinking of negativity, switch back fast enough. The author says do not give in to negative thoughts at all, not even for a milli-second. It manifest by itself and before you know it, everything just spirals downwards.
So therefore, nuture the mind. Let positive thoughts flow. Master this step well, and you might won half the battle.

2. The Lighthouse
This signifies our purpose of life. Because life is finite, it is important to concentrate on the purpose in life. Find something you love, and do it with love and passion. He teaches on the a "21 day magic rule". If you want to develop a good habit, do it continously for 21 days non-stop. Once you make it past 21 days, you realise it has become a daily routine.
Sketch down your life's goals into different sections and create a timeline for each one. For e.g: Family, Health, Career, Money. Have a specific goal (to have X amount of $ by 30 years old). Read it VERY OFTEN.


3. The Sumo Wrestler
This image represents KAIZEN.
Kaizen means the never ending and daily improvement of oneself. It is pushing the boundaries over and over again to strengthen and develop the mind, body and spirit in times of fear and adversity.


There are a few more good theories so I guess its time for me to end this post here and leave the rest to you to read it up. Go get the book today! Its GSS and major bookstores are having real good deals!!

Giselle

13th March 2010 was a different Saturday for Gregda..

Because.....we went for a BALLET performance ! Yes, ballet...classical ballet.
Hahaha...well, he was dragged by me.. so no choice.

We watched Giselle by SDT , at Victoria Theatre.

We did enjoy the performance and even went to Boat Quay for supper thereafter...Ate the Thai steamboat at Boat Quay thai resturant, Tom Yum Kungfu.

Although the sound system and seating is nowhere near Esplanade's, I think Victoria Theatre has this mystical old world charm about it... white-washed building in colonial style.

Our all time fav activity

I never knew how difficult it is to say sorry until yesterday.

I can't seem to string up the 5 letters into this magic word.

But, in the end, I said it.

虽然我是多么的不愿意，虽然我是多么的不想说，在最后，我还是说了。
因为自私的想法对大家没有好处。
因为我的的确确是因该。

I thank God for giving me the courage to press the Send button, I thank Him for leading me to the "right" place, where I need to go.
Although I had a million misgivings, I guess I cannot be so 孩子气 anymore. As what you often say, "the world doesn't revolve around me."

Deep inside, I know... I know that my sorry is for the sake of saying sorry. Not that I don't feel sorry, but I do not want to say to them.
Up till this very day, I am still bothered and upset over the way they do things or the way they talk. Yes I admit...over the years, I have accumulated too much dislike that it's too thick to erase now.

I know and I agree that they are harmless people. But, I cannot register the way they do things and their ideas at times. And because I cannot tell them off upfront, all the displeasure and hard feelings build up. Yes, there are times when I talked about it but it often leads to more arguments because you will never understand.
I know its hard on you.. But end of the day, things are not going anywhere.

Yes I know.. I do not need to think too much about it. Just ignore them. Just nod my head and move on. Blah blah blah...
I guess we are all different people so do not expect me to react the same way you do.
Of course, I can only pray about it.. pray for the strength to overcome those negative feelings. pray for the strength to take things easier.
try to stay calm...and look at the other side. try to be in THEIR shoes.

Yes, I will and I should be able to.

I am a roller coaster

I must have been a coller coaster in my previous life.

Full of Ups and Downs...Turns and Roundabouts.

Things happened so fast that I don't even know what's actually going on.
Maybe I know, but I do not have the solution to it; yet.
And because I do not have that solution yet, things are going round and round in circles.
I can picture myself trapped in this square box. I am walking. I keep on walking..but I am met with a dead end at some point. I seem to be going nowhere.

I am tired. I feel crap from the lack of sleep. My head feels like splitting. The eyes are sore. My energy level is at all time low. I hate such stuff. It REALLY zaps away all the positive energy. and now I have no mood to do anything else...

But I am still thankful that I can find a lil peace at work. Some colleagues are on leave these few days and yeah, personal space is really something I need now.
And of course, most most thankful that I have my favourite people to talk to in times like this.

MOo MOo on the LaWN

Yay!!! I FINALLY found my dream mug!
I wanted to change my office mug eons ago, but just could not find the RIGHT one.
I just feel that its imperative that i get a right coffee mug. Afterall, it's my soulmate to hold for my morning perk-me-ups.
Talk about the art of cupping a warm cup of coffee and sipping it slowly...hahaha!

The mugs I seen the last few rounds were either too big, too small, too loud, too colourful, to kiddish, too plain.

I almost wanted to give up and use one of those plain old mugs ... until I found Moo Moo!

The mug and the lid comes seperate but I find both so cute and apt!

The lid is made of good quality synthetics, GREEN and has a little FAT COW on it! Hence, the name; Moo Moo on e Lawn. Its so apt for my job..although yeah cow is still a cow and not a bull. But, whatever right?!

The mug is white with blue prints. Its the perfect size for coffees. Its handle is strudy and strong. Its texture is smooth and matte.
Best of all, the prints on the mug are quirky with a dash of office humor... I LIKE!!

26th Feb -2010

sometimes i suspect the existence of a blog is for me to rant and complain.

and i am so going to do so now.

not anything BIG or unhappy, but i am just pretty upset! and since I can't use my "creative language" now, blogging it seems like the next better option.

well, the story goes like this:
I had to pick up 2 registered mails today at the post office during lunch time. Because of these 2 fateful mails, it kinda resulted in a chain of not-so-pleasant events. First of all, I had to passed by the shop that screams "SALE"!!. Seems like a happy news EXCEPT that yours truely bought a blouse there recently for $80 bucks and its now under the 30%-off rack. But, its OKAY... sometimes you never know.

Then i thought about my dirty powder puff. Hmmm, its time to change. Walked straight into Watsons and came out with a new case of pressed powder and a new bottle of anti-aging cream-that comes with another bottle of shower cream FREE! In the end, I did not buy the new powder puff....Well, at least the new pressed powder has a pretty casing and it makes my day looking at it.
Remembering my "task", I make my way to the Post Office and was greeted by a long Q... Yucks, I hate Qs.
Finally, its my turn. I collected the mail excitedly and walked back to the office.
I passed by the salon and think to myself, "Hmmmm...its Friday...the day for little treats and maybe I should have a nice hairwash". It could be a good perk-me-up for lazy afternoon.

In the end, it turned out to be a major disappointment! Either the guy is very new or he is not working hard !
The washing was horrible and he didn't scrub hard enough. When it was time to blow dry, the work was so half-f*** ! I wasted 30 mins sitting there and came out looking the same.
ARGH!
That hair-wash just topped the list and made me really upset...

Oh and I forgot to add in what was the big hoo-ha about that registered mail.
Its from some insurance company informing me that they are changing my portfolio to another agent. and Guess what, I do not have any existing plans with them. They forgot to delete my records after that ONCE-OFF travel insurance. -_-!

BUT, its OKAY... that was like..... 2 hrs ago and in betweeb blogging and working, I have already forgot about the whole thing and is now looking forward to 5.06pm!

YAY! its the weekend again!!

Have a lil Faith

I finished reading this book sometime back but have not had the chance to really write about it

My first Mitch Albom was roughly 5-6 years back and it was The 5 people you meet in Heaven.
Subsequently I read his Tuesdays with Morrie.

Although these two books were considered Border's Bestsellers, i did not really enjoy the book then.

6 years later, I happened to pick up his book again. And this time, I am awed by it.
Maybe its me. Afterall, I was just 22-23 years then.

And so, with a new found perspective, a better understanding and a different attitude towards life, HALF (have a little faith) is a page turner for me.

It talks about the lives and faith of 2 different men, yet it is everyone's story.

One particular line I really like from the book...it goes like this, " What profits a man if he gains the whole world but loses his soul?"

Something worth thinking about......right? wrong? haha....

Lent

the Period of Lent started 2 days ago, on 17th Feb 2010. It will last for 40 days and end off during the Easter period.

As a catholic-to-be, i decided to practice fasting during this period as well.
the fasting (in the christian faith) need not be meals. it can refer to abstinence from (vices) activities such as smoking, drinking etc etc.

It's a way to remind ourselves that its Lent during this period and that we can overcome our "vices" through prayer and strength.

As such, I have decided to abstain from taking in meat (unless very necessary and shall be on small quantities) and scolding vulgarities during these 40 days.

I am not up to that level to abstain from my viceroys and beers yet. don't worry. :P

and so it shall be....

Linda Bernadette Ong/

My baptism name..finally it's decided and declared.

There were few names I thought about.
Faith,Constance,Hilda,Genevieve...admist a few others..

and finally, I took up Bernadette. In fact, this was the first name I thought of.

This name is taken after Saint Bernadette. Usually, we try to take after the names of the saints so that when praying, we can ask for intercession.

For more info on St Bernadette, here's the link:http://www.biographyonline.net/spiritual/bernadette-soubirious.html.

cause I am lazy to type out.hahaha!.. and Oh! Thanks to my buddies for those great name suggestions! *LindaWati, Linda Constipation, Linda L*****, LLO, OLL, LOL!..."

-_-!!!

crashed

Our notebook crashed. it is now in ICU ward and God knows if it can be revived back to life.

Please don't give up on me ... all my beautiful memories captured inside.

my holiday photos, wedding photos and lotsa whatnots.

lesson learnt: sometimes kiasu-ism is a good thing. should have back up those memories. or at least blog about it..

Hello 2010!

Hello 2010! I have been waiting for you! WELCOME!! *pop pop pop!!!*

This new year, I hope to:

Work and Personal Development:
- achieve more in work. engage more clients, learn more on TA, and live each working day fulfiling.
- learn a new hobby: lindyhop or some other dance
- read more books
- do more self-reflection

Religion:
- attend RCIA regularly
- attend mass and pray faithfully
- take up bible classes
- buy a 365 day bible and read it every night

Health:
- cut down on drinks and ciggs
- run more and train a better record for 10km
- may go back hot yoga
- eat better, low carb diet

Beauty:
- go for facials regularly
- DIY facial and hair mask twice a week
- Body scrub once a week
- moisturize every night
- second half of the year, i am planning to start my anti-aging range of skincare routine. must start preparing for Big 3!

Home Care:
- do mass cleaning fortnightly
- do more home-cooked dinners

People:
- you know what i am going to say

Society:
- still waiting for my volunteer tuition
- be more eco-friendly

hahhahaa... i type real lots..don't know if I will be disciplined enough to stick to all these, but its still nice to reflect on some goals for the new year and planning my daily life towards these goals.
:P

Goodbye 2009!

Though today is not the first day of New Year, its the first working / back-to-school day. Hence, I finally had the chance to pen down my first words in my 2010 diary.

oh but wait...before i do that, i glanced through my 2009 planner cum diary. it's always nice to remiensce a little.

flashback to a year ago:
I did exercise quite a bit in 2009. hip-hop dance classes, hot yoga, jogging, gym memberships. hmmm...i like!
But, I also drank quite a lot. Those K garden nights, after work drinks at Boat Quay and the drinking sessions with Audrey at Overeasy and Club Street. But I must say it was really in the name of good FUN!
I also kinda find my direction in work..Thank God for everything. Talk about light at the end of the tunnel. Finally, I see some light. Shall continue to work hard in 2010!
2009 was also a year of short trips..and the most beach vacations! ooh-la-la!!
Feb was a crazy Bangkok getaway with the K garden gang..so you can imagine the partying and fun we had!
And then came April ...and oooh...We Love Bali! went with my dearest pple.. the 4 days flew by real fast..and each day was like Paradise.
Had a short trip in Aug @ Batam with Greg and his branch.. Oh ..alcohol..beer...beach...the best combi!
Late Nov was Krabi and Bangkok with Greg..and three letters to summarise: FAB!!!!
We went overdraft on beach and island hopping and tadah, came back with a nice tan!
The snorkelling and seafood in Krabi was awesome. The parties and shopping in Bangkok was fantastic. I simply love Thailand!
To close off the year, a few of my dearest pple end up in Bintan! This trip was a pretty relaxing and chill out trip... i enjoyed the drinking and the chatting thru out the night with all my dearest pple.

Time really flies. Every day, every month, every year seems to pass by so fast that there's not enough time to spent. True enough, as i reflect back on the past year, i realise that i did not spent enough time on family. I should have also invested more into personal development and career.

I hope to bring all these into the new year and each year will be a better year that the last.