Mini Tarts: In continuing with a look back at last quarter of 08.
Tioman - Sept 08
The previous posting saw me hiking to the peak. This one will see me diving down deep. Yup, it was the month I was going to get my PADI license and it was a long time coming! The dive spot...the oh so NOT popular diving island of Tioman. This island however will always bring back awesome memories along with a seed planted in my thoughts of the possibility of long distance relationships. That seed was planted nearly a year ago to this month, looking bad you just cant help but thing of the what if's...
Moving along...
If you ask me what are my thoughts about learning the course in the island itself...I would say its a wee bit rushed. Would prefer the studying and test to NOT BE on my 4day trip, as it was dive, study, dive, study, dive, swimming test, nearly drowned, test, dived, swimming test in that order. Nearly drowned?? More on that later. But like I said, in a nutshell, its a focused trip designed to get your diving license. Forget the relaxing and lazing you usually associate with beach / island holidays. Oh yeah...forget the photography part too! :(
With the heavy and focused schedule, I did bear in mind of how I should enjoy the moment. And enjoyed I did! Surreal experiences along with the overcoming of fear being underwater plus the successful dives and gorgeous views of the deep blue sea made it totally exhilirating! The sense of calmness while literally weightless and watching the underwater world come to life made it all worth it. What would ve made the dives perfect would be to see the rare underwater creatures that gets you excited after the dives, notably sharks or turtles. That however was none existing, although I could've sworn I saw a treasure chest...oh wait, on second thoughts I think it was my dive instructors "treasured chest"!
No this posting is not a promo for anyone to dive, simply because what I've experienced cannot be justified for in words nor pictures (if I had any). In the literal sense, its something you must experience for yourself to see what you believe.
So...the "nearly drowned" issue.
Here we go. On the 3rd day and it was after our 3rd dive. We were then told by our instructor the swimming test will be done right in the middle of the ocean. I dont wanna give excuses like we just had lunch on the boat (not so tasty chilly mi hun), choppy waters (the current was bloody strong) or that I am a weak swimmer (i suck at freestyle!), but yeah...so we had lunch after our morning dive on the boat that was swayed by strong currents... our instructor then pointed to a rock island bout 50-70m away as our halfway point to swim to and return back. A hard lump gathered on my throat, before she (our instructor) continued to say that we cannot use our snorkels or fins and if we're using a dive suit, we must wear weight belts! Ok so we all jumped in, correction: I precariously got into the water. Swam myself to the rock island...phew, made it...now lets head back, others are totally in front of me, exhausted...shit, left calf muscle is pulling...really bad, no...damn it...right calf is pulling too...damn it cant kick the water, body isnt floating properly...tried to keep afloat but struggle even more...gulped few mouthfulls of sea water, tried to cling on rock island but no grip, sharp rocks cut my fingers, not good....very very exhausted, head submerged in the sea...oh wow, what a gorgeous sight, corals are sooo beautiful....more gulps of sea water...emerged and yelled for help...damn it no one can see me nor hear me...yelled even more...legs are killing, first thoughts of drowning...stay positive, at the very least i would be CPRed and I would survive....more sea water, HELLPPP...first person jumping into the water, then the instructor, damn it...long way to get to me, just need to kick a bit more and keep afloat...and finally, cling myself on the guy while instructor stretches both my leg. What an episode... back on the boat I felt like passing out, not before feeding the fish with my barf!! Decided to skip the final dive...while I was about to pass out I thought I wasnt gonna get my license anymore!
Well, as it transpired, i did pass it. Ironically in the written test at that night, I scored the highest! Way to go to make up for nearly drowning! For the rest of the would be divers it was done...but I had to still partake in my last dive the very next morning of my last day, even more rushed! But despite it all...no more stupid incidents and yes...I retook the swimming test but this time it was from shore to somewhere in the ocean and back. And yes...finally I can dive!
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Thursday, December 11, 2008
What?! A posting after 6 months?!
I used to think once a month was bad enough, then it was a bi monthly posting...not that it was anything worthy. Then I figured since the bi monthly posting didnt happen, what about a quarterly issue? That stalled to TWO quarters! So lets not waste any time and get straight into our once a "half year" posting! I guess I am a serial cyber promise breaker!This would be a series of adventures / trips / holidays during my past half a year.
Right after the sun, sea and singalongs (I am trying to allitirate here...) 5 of us flew to Kota Kinabalu, Sabah for our next adventure...climbing to the summit of Mt Kinabalu. Much have been said of how much you DONT need to prepare for the climb as its probably the easiest of climb in terms of mountain climbing. So much so I didnt even bother to prepare proper climbing gears ie. gloves, proper sweaters, shoes etc.
Now who would have thought of it to rain in a tropical forest area?! Right...? Stupid Malaysian that is me! So with most of the climb in pouring rain, I've never froze so much and it ever I was close to feeling a little frost bite (ok over dramatic here), that was it. Nevertheless it didnt dampen the climb although it did hurt much on the ego knowing there are much smaller girls who climb faster than myself. So after reaching the halfway mark, it was done to warming myself up and getting some food. Not to mention cam whoring! It did get to a point that my DSLR was a wee bit heavy that I blamed it for slowing me down!
Well besides the gorgeous view on the way up, which I tried to capture despite totally not comfortable breathing in thin air, there werent many exciting side stories to share. I guess the focus was to just keep on going and be totally driven by it. During the 2nd half of the climb which was done at 2am onwards...to be honest I had to keep telling myself I had to do as the brink of giving up was soooo sooo close! Again, I blame my camera and unpreparedness...with low stamina coming a close 2nd! :D
Low's Peak (how ironic) was the highest peak and after several hours of climbin (I would consider it to be "hiking"), I finally reached the summit just in time for sun break at dawn. Fingers were bloody freezing that I had trouble clicking my camera even! But I had to make sure that I get the shot that I ve always wanted... 
For more amazing photos;
Sarawak and Sabah - July
Much have been said of how Malaysians from the Peninsular side hardly ever visited their neighbouring Borneo states of Sabah and Sarawak. Not surprising since city dwellers may not find forest reserves, the sea, mountains, exotic animals (all the primary tourist attractions for both these states) that much exciting, plus a stereotype that most of the places there are under developed.
I for one had always wanted to find a reason to go there. Using the excuse that they have far hotter women than the Peninsular isnt something of an excuse (they do!). Thus two main events in July was the perfect reason (yes it was that long since my last entry!). That 2 events were the world famous Rainforest Music Festival (running for the 11th year) and the mind blowing adventure of climbing Mt Kinabalu, Malaysia highests peak and the 20th prominent one in the world.
Rainforest World Music Festival 2008, Sarawak
Where better than to celebrate the diversity of world (or ethnic) music than right in the middle of a serene and lush rainforest, where the gamut of ethnic music fused with world beats and jazzy fusions along with sounds of local / traditional musical instruments bring a harmony of wonderful melody. From the corners of Africa to deep in Europe to the edges of Asia, bands from all over the world come together annually to celebrate 3 days in a potpourri of music, cultures and traditions.
2008 was the 11th year and some may argue that last year's was better, but for a first timer like me...it was truly mindblowing and fantastic! The trip was more exciting especially seeing the motley crue of AIESEC trainees and international folks that were my travel buddies.
What surprised me even further was the fact the rainforest was right next to a gorgeous beach! And towering the beach and rainforest is the imposing Mt Santubong, making the scenery absolutly gorgeous. So imagine, lazing on the beach during the day and move into the forest for a jamming good time later at night! Now thats how you spend your holidays!
For those who care to read this blog, I truly recommend attending this at least once in your lifetime! Especially to those abroad, what better way for me to promote gorgeous Malaysia than this event.
As for me...I am definitely going back again!
Mount Kinabalu, Sabah
Right after the sun, sea and singalongs (I am trying to allitirate here...) 5 of us flew to Kota Kinabalu, Sabah for our next adventure...climbing to the summit of Mt Kinabalu. Much have been said of how much you DONT need to prepare for the climb as its probably the easiest of climb in terms of mountain climbing. So much so I didnt even bother to prepare proper climbing gears ie. gloves, proper sweaters, shoes etc.
Now who would have thought of it to rain in a tropical forest area?! Right...? Stupid Malaysian that is me! So with most of the climb in pouring rain, I've never froze so much and it ever I was close to feeling a little frost bite (ok over dramatic here), that was it. Nevertheless it didnt dampen the climb although it did hurt much on the ego knowing there are much smaller girls who climb faster than myself. So after reaching the halfway mark, it was done to warming myself up and getting some food. Not to mention cam whoring! It did get to a point that my DSLR was a wee bit heavy that I blamed it for slowing me down!
Well besides the gorgeous view on the way up, which I tried to capture despite totally not comfortable breathing in thin air, there werent many exciting side stories to share. I guess the focus was to just keep on going and be totally driven by it. During the 2nd half of the climb which was done at 2am onwards...to be honest I had to keep telling myself I had to do as the brink of giving up was soooo sooo close! Again, I blame my camera and unpreparedness...with low stamina coming a close 2nd! :D
Low's Peak (how ironic) was the highest peak and after several hours of climbin (I would consider it to be "hiking"), I finally reached the summit just in time for sun break at dawn. Fingers were bloody freezing that I had trouble clicking my camera even! But I had to make sure that I get the shot that I ve always wanted...
Picture of Mt Kinabalu plateau in the background of RM1 note which has Mt Kinabalu plateau in the background
And boy was it a picturesque peak! Didnt know how gorgeous rocks can be, especially looking down towarda the plateau. I dont know what I felt most, all I knew was its total joy and satisfaction muddled by heaps of tiredness. However I wasnt sure if its towards my achievement reaching the summit...or snapping heaps of amazing photos...or damn bloody glad its over!
Hmmm...come to think of it, the descend was probably far worst on my knees than the ascend. Although it was fairly less tiring than the climb of course.
Kanye sang "I gotta testify, come up in the spot looking extra fly...
For the day I die, I'mma touch the sky"
Bonz said the same...but he didnt die
He just went up high
High up the mountain sky
Muscles cramp i could bloody cry
Alt sickness, O2 low caused the lungs to dry
For more amazing photos;
Wednesday, July 09, 2008
Funny la Manila (part iii)
This isnt a "posh" complaint...but I just hate hotel food! I guess my gastronomy levels never bordered near "fine dining", fancying more the local and road side fares..."drain dining" for those whose more affluent.
So one evening we (me and Pam) decided to walk out of the hotel and search for any local grubs in any restaurant. The concierge pointed us towards one Jupiter Street, explaining the many diverse restaurants available within walking distance. Delighted, we walked to the said location. Only after nearing those familiar colorful and bright neon lights, did I realise this was indeed somewhere familiar! It was one of the so called red light streets...semi naked Pinay babes frolicking around and dancing while tourists like me stroll in on the pretext of wanting some drinks. ;)
So this was apparently the idea of the dude at the concierge for a good restaurant joint! And it wasnt even me asking...it was Pam! Nice...
Anyways dodgy restaurants wasnt part of our agenda (although I noted how close this street was to our hotel!), so we walked randomly around...middle eastern grubs, nah...Indian, we've got heaps back home, Italian...didnt feel like it, western...no freakin way! You know those times when good ol' McD's or KFC would suffice, no matter how you dont like it! It was THAT moment!
Anyways...we decided to go Chinese (really ran out of ideas). Unfortunately the only thing good there was the Chinese tea and fried dumpling, although the aroma of an oily stench only Chinese restaurants could provide did appeal to possibly thinking it might be a good choice. How wrong were we! And to make matters worst...I found HAIR in my food!! Not that I complain much, but Pam did prompt me to complain and we did, managing to tick that dish of the bill. Not bad...they do listen to customers!
We left, but the urge for Mickey D's was all of a sudden increasing! It was obvious I wasnt full yet...so I bought back an extra choc fudge sundae, large fries and apple pie (gym my foot!). All for a total amount of RM9 upon converting!
While walking back we stumbled upon this really young girl begging on the main road...literally on the MAIN ROAD, when cars stop at the traffic light, she'll just go randomly to any car and knocking and pleading and begging for any spare change. Now this scene is quite common across Manila, but it was that very moment which really made us realised how despite Manila is such a booming metropolitan, there are still the unlucky and impoverished few amongst them. Pam quickly gave the kid 100pesos (about RM10) while I gave her my extra fudge sundae. But not before chasing her around the cars as she wasnt even the height of the cars bonnet! It was freaking dangerous for the small kid to even be there!
Feeling a mix of sorrow for the kid and guilty for overindulging...we left for the hotel. Then 2 more kids appeared out of nowhere. Now its getting a wee bit suspicious...the kid even asking for my french fries. I guess if it wasnt for my guilt...I would ve just waved the kids off. Alas...I had to part my fries AND apple pie for the kids...the bitchy part of me complaining not just a crappy dinner...but there goes any chance to salvage it even! Grumbling as I walked towards the hotel...Pam still shocked over the incident (am sure its not bout me giving my food away, but more on the impoverished conditions still existing)...we then heard a super loud and squealy "THANK YOUUUUU" as the kids waved at us.
Our hearts melted...
So one evening we (me and Pam) decided to walk out of the hotel and search for any local grubs in any restaurant. The concierge pointed us towards one Jupiter Street, explaining the many diverse restaurants available within walking distance. Delighted, we walked to the said location. Only after nearing those familiar colorful and bright neon lights, did I realise this was indeed somewhere familiar! It was one of the so called red light streets...semi naked Pinay babes frolicking around and dancing while tourists like me stroll in on the pretext of wanting some drinks. ;)
So this was apparently the idea of the dude at the concierge for a good restaurant joint! And it wasnt even me asking...it was Pam! Nice...
Anyways dodgy restaurants wasnt part of our agenda (although I noted how close this street was to our hotel!), so we walked randomly around...middle eastern grubs, nah...Indian, we've got heaps back home, Italian...didnt feel like it, western...no freakin way! You know those times when good ol' McD's or KFC would suffice, no matter how you dont like it! It was THAT moment!
Anyways...we decided to go Chinese (really ran out of ideas). Unfortunately the only thing good there was the Chinese tea and fried dumpling, although the aroma of an oily stench only Chinese restaurants could provide did appeal to possibly thinking it might be a good choice. How wrong were we! And to make matters worst...I found HAIR in my food!! Not that I complain much, but Pam did prompt me to complain and we did, managing to tick that dish of the bill. Not bad...they do listen to customers!
We left, but the urge for Mickey D's was all of a sudden increasing! It was obvious I wasnt full yet...so I bought back an extra choc fudge sundae, large fries and apple pie (gym my foot!). All for a total amount of RM9 upon converting!
While walking back we stumbled upon this really young girl begging on the main road...literally on the MAIN ROAD, when cars stop at the traffic light, she'll just go randomly to any car and knocking and pleading and begging for any spare change. Now this scene is quite common across Manila, but it was that very moment which really made us realised how despite Manila is such a booming metropolitan, there are still the unlucky and impoverished few amongst them. Pam quickly gave the kid 100pesos (about RM10) while I gave her my extra fudge sundae. But not before chasing her around the cars as she wasnt even the height of the cars bonnet! It was freaking dangerous for the small kid to even be there!
Feeling a mix of sorrow for the kid and guilty for overindulging...we left for the hotel. Then 2 more kids appeared out of nowhere. Now its getting a wee bit suspicious...the kid even asking for my french fries. I guess if it wasnt for my guilt...I would ve just waved the kids off. Alas...I had to part my fries AND apple pie for the kids...the bitchy part of me complaining not just a crappy dinner...but there goes any chance to salvage it even! Grumbling as I walked towards the hotel...Pam still shocked over the incident (am sure its not bout me giving my food away, but more on the impoverished conditions still existing)...we then heard a super loud and squealy "THANK YOUUUUU" as the kids waved at us.
Our hearts melted...
Thursday, July 03, 2008
Funny la Manila (part ii)
You know you re looking forward to tea breaks during workshops when they serve you this...
And forget your diet plans and gym routines here as the Pinoys claim that they re all about food in the Philippines!! Now tell me where havent I heard that before back home!
You think Germany is all about PORK?
BAH!! For our project dinner today we had knuckles AND one of the bestest, juiciest, lemakest BBQ pork I ve ever had for free! Pity our Malay team mate though, but one can understand that when a country doesnt govern the consumption of pork to just non Muslims...damn nearly every occassion you ve got them porkys! And bacons here really taste like bacon...ie made of PORK!
(I'd love to show pics but gotta respect them none porky eaters though)
Anyways I think my proficiency to understand sexual / dirty joke innuendos has gone a wee bit to an embarrassing level. Already I ve been noted for laughing at ridiculously simple lines / phrases for no apparent reason...except that upon further thoughts one can find some sexual connotations to it! Or maybe I think toooooo 'deep'...
And it doesnt help either that the person that came up with those brilliant lines will always claim innocence!! Damn it...and to think I laugh because I appreciate a good joke...albeit a dirty one (hey you know the best jokes are always the dirtiest!). Compliments sometimes result in ones detriment!
And so as I took the last slab of yummy bbq pork, I was asked to finish the knuckles as well. I rejected, owing to the fact that my stomach had no space left later for dessert! However one of the Pinoys from the workshop (and a funny one at that!) commented, "Ahh, so Bonnie likes the 'tender' one"...emphasizing on a word which could lead to thinking of something 'delicate', 'soft', 'affectionate', 'delicate' etc on a piece of meat! I laughed my hysterical laugh...brilliant joke I thought...only to be confronted by staring, accusing eyes! I defensively muttered "Cant I laugh...?" knowing I was a mouse trapped in a corner with 5 cats stalking me!
"You dirty minded boy!", accused the supposedly funny Pinoy. "But...but...I was just laughing...", I again defended myself, trying to shoot my last bullet only to know its an empty 'shell'.
"But you had a 'DIRTY' laugh!"
I bowed my head in defeat as I knifed my last piece of 'tender' pork...
Tuesday, July 01, 2008
Funny la Manila (part i)
So the adventures of the unexpected consultant continues...this time bringing the Portuguese Tart to Philippines...again! Better yet...this time i am based in the office situated right smack in the "Bukit Bintang" area of Manila (Makati), unlike the Cheras of Manila (no disrespect to Cheras folks though :P)
I totally missed my business travels; the new country feel, different office environment, cultures and diversity...yes down to the hotels as well (ready made bed, privacy and luxury...the best that business trips can buy!). And its one thing going to the a country you ve been before...but going to a country which you totally love is another! Too bad not all shared the same excitement of heading to Manila though; cant blame them for thinking the recent typhoon and stereotypical fears of third world country / terrorism / random reasons which could cloud their expectations.
But whats there NOT to like about Philippines!?
I absolutely love the accent (not just happy looking like one, I take pride in speaking like one too!), the girls are the BEST LOOKING in South East Asia (I VOUCH for it!), I ve got heaps of good, dear friends from Philippines (mabuhay Jennie Lee, Liv, Amy etc shucks, all Pinoy girls)...but best of all the SMILES! You would bet that babies delivered are not crying out of the womb but laughing / smiling their way out...and probably tickling their mummies too! :D Or maybe thanks to Krispy Kreme they re always on a sugar high...hence the smile always! Yummsss....Krispy Kreme...but thats for another post!
(While typing this...a bunch of Pinoys whom I ve met while facilitating in an AIESEC conference in Taiwan wayyy back in 04 is planning to show me around this weekend...they re like the awesomest and sweetest!!)
We flew out on Sunday noon, after a long Saturday night beginning with my clients (s)IT(i) business unit's awesome possum of an annual dinner!
Now speaking of this annual dinner...that is deserving of a post by itself. Beginning with being totally impressed with the organization of the event (cant imagine the budget...they freakin gave out iMac's as lucky draw gifts, and thats not even the FIRST PRIZE!), right up to admiring the amazing percussion skills of my "sister that I never had" (Fizzy, project mate that got upset cuz I called her my "project mate" and not "friend" - you knw I love you Fizzy!) - how I love them drummer girls - , amazing live bands (all staffs yo...so much for thinking its a geek dinner) and super performances (capoeira, a number from Hairspray etc...again, all staffs yo!)
Not content with going there alone, I was lucky enough to have 3 gorgeous handbags for dates (read: DRIVER!).
The theme of the night was elements of white, made the night look pretty elegant and fancy!
Tart and his handbags, L-R - Pam, Mel and Stel. It was one night in hell!
Tart and handbags along with drummer girl going rum a pum pum
Arriving in Manila, the team (minus the Project Manager) quickly checked in and hit the shopping mall immediately! Adventure really began when all 3 ladies need to look for shoes (Pam being a Charles and Keith whore really did her research of that store located in the shopping complex near our hotel...hmmm, I wonder if she chose the hotel simply cuz its near that shop?!) So imagine Pam's frustrations realising after treasure hunting the whole complex only to realise the treasure location is under construction! Oh man the frust on her face was 100x worst than when one of her incompetent project manager asked her whats the plan of the project plan...for the 100th time!
Until the Tart have to save the day...in fine print it says the store (or whats left of the store) has shifted to the TEENS AND KIDS dept! Pam insisted that it ll NEVER be in the kids dept...but like the other shoe use to say...Impossible is Nothing...I doubly insisted of no harm checking it out, and lo and behold, with an area no bigger than my office cubicle, lay a few racks of shoes and boxes with the banner CHARLES & KEITH emblazoned across, I swore I saw Pam reached climax...multiple times! It took her 20mins to pick the ones she wanted and in the end she purchased two pairs! Even then...her face was still flustered with heat still emancipating from her cheeks!
Anyways I could definitely understand her relief and sighs of contentment. For one, I somehow have a little fetish on really great looking shoes WORN by women (need to emphasize so as not to confuse ppl that I enjoy seeing women wearing sexy heels, not ME wearing them!). Somehow I am sure it definitely allows women to showoff their hidden sexual charms. Somehow those shoes, with the right height on the heels and straps going around the right (not slutty) way, it just screams SEXY! And somehow I totally agree that mens best invention for women was and will always be the heels! So yes...although despite the lack of eye candies in office, the shoes maketh the best replacement! And yes...I do compliment Pam for wearing really nice pairs...so am glad I helped her achieve her feets insatiable appetite to look good!
Anyways...to end this little post, I would like to quote the HR Manager which welcomed us;
"I hope you get to know Manila, but dont let Manila know you..."
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
March 8th...
Mini Tarts: Ok ok...i know its like forever for an update! Still not quitting this blogging thing... :P
On the political side of things in Malaysia, March 8th marked a momentous day for democracy. The “political tsunami”, given the “disastrous” result for the ruling government where they lost the 2/3rd majority barring some untouchables seats in several states, saw the opposition gain hold of 5 states (something totally unprecedented).
It was also a truly memorable day in terms of rekindling lost friendship. Having practised my right as a citizen yearning for a major change in the country’s political scene early in the morning, I caught the next bus down south to Singapore.
The occasion; Jennie Lee’s much anticipated return to this side of the world (well she’s a Pinoy, dropping by the island to catch up with several other friends before heading for home).
The least I could do is drop by for a visit myself. Guess the halfway round the world trip from Germany was irrelevant to my 600km trip from KL to Singapore.
I still remember my last vivid memories of Jennie…she was the sweet angel soaking my tears while I cried and sobbed my eyes dry as I left Bonn for the final time (I stained her blouse for sure!). Accompanying me in my trip to Frankfurt airport (although not purposely for my departure), it was nice having someone to be there as I took in my last journey in a German ICE (inter city express) train while reminiscing of what WAS to be my Germany Journey.
It was apt as well that she was the last person I got to spend my time with as she was one of the first friend I got introduced too as I began my the Germany Journey. Our friendship spanned through many walks to her home, cooking sessions, Asian nights, long, fantastic stories and gossips, pizzas by the field in spring and summer, shopping, road trips…she definitely was a chapter in itself! Oh how would I then miss this occasion of meeting up with her again…even though its for exactly 24hours!
What made it a MUST NOT MISS is the fact that Shook and Amit would be there as well! Irony has it that both these other integral individuals in my life have not met prior to this…despite hearing tales and stories bout each other often enough to know they both can definitely click upon meeting up! This is thanks of course to me and Jen sharing tales of Amit to Shook plus Shook’s fetish of Indian men! Put all this elements together and we re gonna have one really memorable and unforgettable day! Add in a few extra Pinoys (courtesy of friends of Jen’s…hey that’s a nice ring to it!) and you ll get more laughters and songs for all you know! Guess the one thing to make this totally PERFECT would be meeting in a German themed restaurant!
Well, that was where we went for brunch the following day! A Bavarian themed restaurant to be exact, which brought all the fantastic memories of Rheinlust (THE brunch place amongst us Bonn residents) come together! Our meeting had everything that a few good friends who haven’t seen each other for ages had…stories, gossips, updates, laughter, cam whoring (we re ASIANS…plus we ve got new DSLR’s to show off!)…everything but the sentimentality of meeting up again after sooo many months! I guess the very desire to see each other again plus the fact that knowing it isn’t impossible (taking that very weekend as an example) helped make it to be a SEE YOU SOON, rather than a GOODBYE….
Jen, Me and Shook
German Food!
Jenny in all her glory before chowing down
Me and Shook along with all Pinoy Sweeties!
And still staying with the island that is Singapore…
Now every now and then one can have their random blonde moments. I for one probably have a top 5 blonde moment! However what happened this time wins it hands down for being the ULTIMATE BLONDE MOMENT for moi!
Now while in Bonn, I never had the chance to watch the super musical that’s based on Queen’s music, titled We Will Rock You. It was a staple performance in Cologne (some 30 mins away from Bonn) yet I think the thing that turned me off was that it was done in German! (yuck!)
Nevertheless, upon hearing that they re doing a 2-3weeks show in Singapore (why oh why don’t these fantastic acts ever come to Malaysia!?), I jumped at the chance to watch it on its final day. Accompanying my colleague on a road trip along with her two other friends on a Saturday morning, I diligently advised and reminded them if they ve done their checklist (ie. Passport, money, tickets etc).
However fate would play a cruel game with me when after the 6 hour ride and upon reaching the border on the Singapore side, I realised that the passport I was holding all the while (and YES I DID CHECK…somehow not thoroughly * shy * ) was actually my MUMS!!!! *smacks forehead*
My colleague were in total disbelief that the least they could do was laugh the shit out of me…which I duly allowed cuz I never felt sooooooo STUPID! (well I did have other stupid moments, but this tops it all!).
My brain quickly worked overtime (after all the stupidity, it took a while to even deduct how to smile) and analysed what went wrong…I woke up and groggily stumbled into the family drawer to get my passport, which was easily identified by the heaps of passport sized photos which I have in MY passport. Well unfortunately…the photos were transferred to my mum’s passport (I then found out it was my mum who shifted it!)…and thus begun my apathy towards being THOROUGH with my checking (does this now justify why I hate auditing and double checking my work!) of the passport which I brought! Believe me the thought that crossed my mind when I was stuck at the situation includes actually PRETENDING to be the holder of the passport! The things you would think when you get stuck in a rut!
When the girls were done laughing me off, my colleague actually offered me her car to drive back and get my passport (the musical was the next day). Me however was too tired to even think of driving a total of 12 hours to and fro (must be the thinking!). With that, I just considered the RM100+ ticket burnt and despite efforts to sell it the next day…I knew it was gone. But I guess nothing could be so much gone as to my pride and dignity…duly shown in full drama and comedy that it should be rated PG13 for the absurdity and stupidity that was me!
On the political side of things in Malaysia, March 8th marked a momentous day for democracy. The “political tsunami”, given the “disastrous” result for the ruling government where they lost the 2/3rd majority barring some untouchables seats in several states, saw the opposition gain hold of 5 states (something totally unprecedented).
It was also a truly memorable day in terms of rekindling lost friendship. Having practised my right as a citizen yearning for a major change in the country’s political scene early in the morning, I caught the next bus down south to Singapore.
The occasion; Jennie Lee’s much anticipated return to this side of the world (well she’s a Pinoy, dropping by the island to catch up with several other friends before heading for home).
The least I could do is drop by for a visit myself. Guess the halfway round the world trip from Germany was irrelevant to my 600km trip from KL to Singapore.
I still remember my last vivid memories of Jennie…she was the sweet angel soaking my tears while I cried and sobbed my eyes dry as I left Bonn for the final time (I stained her blouse for sure!). Accompanying me in my trip to Frankfurt airport (although not purposely for my departure), it was nice having someone to be there as I took in my last journey in a German ICE (inter city express) train while reminiscing of what WAS to be my Germany Journey.
It was apt as well that she was the last person I got to spend my time with as she was one of the first friend I got introduced too as I began my the Germany Journey. Our friendship spanned through many walks to her home, cooking sessions, Asian nights, long, fantastic stories and gossips, pizzas by the field in spring and summer, shopping, road trips…she definitely was a chapter in itself! Oh how would I then miss this occasion of meeting up with her again…even though its for exactly 24hours!
What made it a MUST NOT MISS is the fact that Shook and Amit would be there as well! Irony has it that both these other integral individuals in my life have not met prior to this…despite hearing tales and stories bout each other often enough to know they both can definitely click upon meeting up! This is thanks of course to me and Jen sharing tales of Amit to Shook plus Shook’s fetish of Indian men! Put all this elements together and we re gonna have one really memorable and unforgettable day! Add in a few extra Pinoys (courtesy of friends of Jen’s…hey that’s a nice ring to it!) and you ll get more laughters and songs for all you know! Guess the one thing to make this totally PERFECT would be meeting in a German themed restaurant!
Well, that was where we went for brunch the following day! A Bavarian themed restaurant to be exact, which brought all the fantastic memories of Rheinlust (THE brunch place amongst us Bonn residents) come together! Our meeting had everything that a few good friends who haven’t seen each other for ages had…stories, gossips, updates, laughter, cam whoring (we re ASIANS…plus we ve got new DSLR’s to show off!)…everything but the sentimentality of meeting up again after sooo many months! I guess the very desire to see each other again plus the fact that knowing it isn’t impossible (taking that very weekend as an example) helped make it to be a SEE YOU SOON, rather than a GOODBYE….
Jen, Me and Shook
German Food!
Jenny in all her glory before chowing down
Me and Shook along with all Pinoy Sweeties!And still staying with the island that is Singapore…
Now every now and then one can have their random blonde moments. I for one probably have a top 5 blonde moment! However what happened this time wins it hands down for being the ULTIMATE BLONDE MOMENT for moi!
Now while in Bonn, I never had the chance to watch the super musical that’s based on Queen’s music, titled We Will Rock You. It was a staple performance in Cologne (some 30 mins away from Bonn) yet I think the thing that turned me off was that it was done in German! (yuck!)
Nevertheless, upon hearing that they re doing a 2-3weeks show in Singapore (why oh why don’t these fantastic acts ever come to Malaysia!?), I jumped at the chance to watch it on its final day. Accompanying my colleague on a road trip along with her two other friends on a Saturday morning, I diligently advised and reminded them if they ve done their checklist (ie. Passport, money, tickets etc).
However fate would play a cruel game with me when after the 6 hour ride and upon reaching the border on the Singapore side, I realised that the passport I was holding all the while (and YES I DID CHECK…somehow not thoroughly * shy * ) was actually my MUMS!!!! *smacks forehead*
My colleague were in total disbelief that the least they could do was laugh the shit out of me…which I duly allowed cuz I never felt sooooooo STUPID! (well I did have other stupid moments, but this tops it all!).
My brain quickly worked overtime (after all the stupidity, it took a while to even deduct how to smile) and analysed what went wrong…I woke up and groggily stumbled into the family drawer to get my passport, which was easily identified by the heaps of passport sized photos which I have in MY passport. Well unfortunately…the photos were transferred to my mum’s passport (I then found out it was my mum who shifted it!)…and thus begun my apathy towards being THOROUGH with my checking (does this now justify why I hate auditing and double checking my work!) of the passport which I brought! Believe me the thought that crossed my mind when I was stuck at the situation includes actually PRETENDING to be the holder of the passport! The things you would think when you get stuck in a rut!
When the girls were done laughing me off, my colleague actually offered me her car to drive back and get my passport (the musical was the next day). Me however was too tired to even think of driving a total of 12 hours to and fro (must be the thinking!). With that, I just considered the RM100+ ticket burnt and despite efforts to sell it the next day…I knew it was gone. But I guess nothing could be so much gone as to my pride and dignity…duly shown in full drama and comedy that it should be rated PG13 for the absurdity and stupidity that was me!
Monday, March 17, 2008
See Shell seaShells on the sea shore...
How apt is this photo...? Too bad I cant get a perfect Shell.
On that extra day of the Feb, I had the benefit of attending (read: FREE!) another client event. This time its their Family Day and the destination was Pangkor Island.
Objectives of the weekend;
- meet more colleagues
- chil-lax (chill + relax)
- get maybe some work done
- most importantly...get intimate with my Japanese partner...A200!
The fact that there was some work to be done didnt bother much. Best part...it was a road trip all the way to the island...a great ride, good music, fun people... thats what the "chil-laxin" (chill + relaxin) was all about.
Here are some snapshots of the weekend...
Apparently over here you get heaps of hornbills too...not just Sarawak.
Poor cute lost nekkid boy...
Little kid oblivious to the action...
Telematch morning
Your's truly had to emcee his groups performance.
HORNBILLS!!! They just love to pose!
Beach bowling anyone?
This is a common shot...me stuffing my mouth with food!
For more shots...check out
1) http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=93940&l=02930&id=729675581
2) http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=93946&l=a08a1&id=729675581
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