More Like, Being Blunt?

Do You Like Drama?

2010-07-03T01:49:00.000+08:00

I see so much drama that I don't need soaps to keep me entertained, for real!

Aiyoh seriously, grow up la sweethearts. There's a whole lot more to this world than what revolves only around you darlings :)

Haha

How do you like your eggs- scrambled, sunny side-up, over-easy, French omelet-ish, poached, slow-poached, boiled, smoked, raw, 5:10?

Whoa these sporadic bursts of bullshit is really getting to me. Haha

Got food?

Let's All Have A Laugh

2010-07-03T01:37:00.000+08:00

Sometimes the funkiest of circumstances, be it the most adverse or the complete opposite of it, might get you thinking; wouldn't I be sparing the closest fellas I know some serious bouts of headache if I weren't even conceived in the first place. Haha!

Gets you thinking don't it? Meh I've got you.

I'm hungry. Aren't you?

Got food?

Dumdeedum (:

2009-07-21T01:27:00.008+08:00

I'm as chuffed as a fat cow really. Papa brought me to go see the Man Utd match! I'm stoked! (Caught it on Saturday as well with Melvin)

It was rather peculiar. My Dad called me while I was in class asking, "Do you wanna go watch Manchester United taking on Malaysia?"

But really, to be honest, I don't really recall being this happy in a long time. Heck, it's defo one of the best days in my life thus far. He even went to get the tickets. It sounds cliched and all but heck, it's difficult to put into words really just how I feel right now.

You see, thing is my father is absolutely NOT into football. A point to substantiate that fact? He pointed at Man United's No.11 and asked me, "who's that? He's quite slick with the ball eh?"

......0.O"......

How can you not know Ryan Giggs?! Haha. He defended himself by retorting that he could at least single out Rooney from the mass of bodies on the pitch. But really, I'd never expected my Dad, of all persons, to take me to a football match. I'm over the moon, really.

Our very own "Theater of Dreams"

Spot your heroes..

WAYNE ROOOONEY!!

Laters.

Bruschetta of Pan Seared Encrusted Beef Tenderloin OR Open-Faced Sandwich

2009-07-12T23:33:00.011+08:00

Thing is, I can't come to terms as to what to call this dish. Bruschetta or an open-faced sandwich? Hmm.

So yes, we all know that a tenderloin of beef is one of the choicest cut of beef available and the cut most often used for filet mignon. Basically what I've done (or tried to do :p) is that I coated the tenderloin in mustard, dijon in this case, gave it a spice crust and seared it very briefly on all sides. This cooks the tenderloin to medium rare. If eating meat a little on the raw side is not your thing, pop the seared tenderloin into a 170-200°C for about 15-20 minutes.

So without further ado or the need for small chatter, let's get down to this recipe:

Bruschetta of Pan Seared Encrusted Tenderloin (Or Opened-Face Sandwich, whichever)
Recipe by Tan Kel Vin

(Serves 4)

- 400g beef tenderloin
- 3-4 heaped tbsp's of Dijon mustard
- Crushed black peppercorns
- Crushed coriander seeds
- Salt, loads of it
- Some olive oil
- Crusty bread like baguette or ciabatta
- Parmesan cheese (no powdered ones, get the real McCoy!)

Start off by rubbing the dijon mustard all over the tenderloin. Lay out the crushed black peppercorns, coriander seeds and salt on a chopping board or a flat surface and mix well. Lay the tenderloin which has been rubbed with the mustard on the spice mixture and coat all sides. Get a frying pan on the stove and let it get screaming hot. Add some olive oil to the pan. When the pan and oil is hot enough, place the tenderloin in the pan and sear for 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from pan, let the meat rest before slicing.

Get your bread, slice into nice semi-thick slices and brush with a little olive oil. Lightly grill the slices of bread. Once the meat has rested (about 7-10 minutes), slice thinly across the grain and at an angle. Assemble; place a slice or more of beef on each slice of bread, drizzle with a little olive oil, shave a little parmesan over the slices and sprinkle with cracked black pepper.
Garnish with dressed greens such as watercress or parsley if you'd like.

Laters.

Yes, Big Boy?

2009-05-20T01:15:00.002+08:00

Been feeling a little under the weather the past few days. And to say the least, the past few days were in fact quite a whirlwind, really.

OHH SHITT NOO.

Was about to upload pics from my camera when I discovered the memory card is GONE. I'm staring at the empty slot right now. Omg. Someone must've nicked it from my D90. Shitt.

Ahh.

This was meant to be a proper post, with decent photos and the works but the whole "SD Card-gone-missing" has totally put me off. Ergh.

DUPED!

2009-05-03T23:42:00.003+08:00

You know that utterly sinking feeling when you first discovered Santa Claus is as real as flying pigs when you were about 4 or 5?

Well then, imagine then when you discover that that incredibly steamy ultra sultry poster girl you ogle over every night before going to bed is in fact, a man. Or WAS, rather.

Or worse still, imagine you were Shia Labeouf, whom the entire male population thought was an absolutely lucky fella (let's be nice) to have snogged her, the sexiest female alive; probably even bedded her. I really do wonder what went through his mind when he found out. Kai Ming joked, "Who's having the last laugh now, bitch?"

Wait, what about her fiance?

Oh why, oh why?

................

MEGAN FOX IS A MAN. NO SHIT.

Malaysia's 1st iBand!

2009-03-24T14:43:00.003+08:00

The first ever of its kind in Malaysia which of whom yours truly is incredibly proud to be of. Def explains why I was so stoked about the whole Apple iPhone 3G launch by local telco/carrier Maxis.

From left to right: Kieran, Myself, Michael, Siew Haur.

Feel free to comment and rate. Thanks and enjoy!

Laters.

PS: A big shout out to voiceaway for posting this video up on youtube!

iBand Extravaganza

2009-03-19T00:55:00.002+08:00

Heard about Maxis' iPhone Launch over at KL Convention Center this weekend?

Yes, loads of people have been complaining about the iPhone plan rates.

But, any good reason to be there? Or at least half a decent reason?

I Found The Remedy!

2009-03-05T23:54:00.005+08:00

Sorry had to steal this, Sean!

Never knew a guy who showed up in relaxed khakis, a white V-neck tee and his trademark trilby could be such a musical genius! And make so many women (and men) swoon. Heck. I actually envy Jason Mraz. The fella is so unbelievably talented that it actually makes him sexy. Quote The Girlfriend; "He's schhooo damn sexy!" And I could only (unfortunately) agree. *Ego/SelfEsteemHurtsLikeHellDammit*

His stage setup is once of the simplest and most straightforward I've ever seen. It was dead simple. NO need for all those uncalled for AV shiznit and all. All he needed to captivate every audience was himself and his little ensemble. And man did it work.

Armed with a Taylor, he sang, crooned, beatboxed, danced and jigged his way into the hearts of everyone. Okay that was cheesy but that was how it felt like, really.

And there's this bit where he merged Remedy with Wonderwall. Ingenious.

Mr.A-Z was simply damn freaking incredulously amazing. To be honest, these words don't do his performance justice. It was that good.

Please do come again Mr Mraz!

Laters.

Bull, Ox, Cow, Kerbau, Buffalo.. Wtf..

2009-01-28T15:36:00.002+08:00

Gong Hei Fatt Choy!

Have an abso Bullish year ahead fellas ;0)

J'ai Dix Hui Ans?

2009-01-22T00:38:00.004+08:00

The first text I got when the clock stroke 0000 hours today was this:

"Hey kel! Happy Birthday:). Haha.

Youre a legal drinker and smoker now:D.

Haha.

Anyways. Happybirthday wei."

Got that from my dear friend Naren. Thanks mate! Save for the fact I don't smoke.

And thanks Keane and Melissa for a night of fine food, wine and killer company! Well, it's a pity The Girlfriend couldn't join us though. But that's a whole different story altogether. Pictures will be up soon.

Laters.

A New Year, A New Wish List.

2009-01-07T04:29:00.014+08:00

Happy New Year, fellas!

It's 0430 hours, I've just completed yet another set of push-ups and I'm as bored as can be. I wanna get ripped. That's if I can be persistently consistent and bloody dilligent. Okay, this blog needs some much- neglected attention. Haha.

With the prospect of hauling my considerable behind to get a job/ become a temp, I've amassed and compiled a pretty list of material indulgences I can acquire and splurge on with my resulting paycheck. This is defo an initiative for me to get a job during the vacant months leading up to college which for me, starts in April.

Firstly, I want a REALLY, REALLY good kochmesser; chef's knife in English. Those which can last you a pretty damn long time and which can also double as a means to scare away and intimidate any threatening deejays (inside joke). Then I'd be as happy as a fat cow grazing on a lush meadow cos I already have a pretty decent serrated carving knife and small paring knife. But this lil' baby(Kai ShunC Chef's Knife DM0707) here will set me back a cool 592 bucks. *Whistles* So for now I'll take delight in my Ikea(Haha!) chef's knife which really, is quite for an amateur(aspiring?) foodie like me.

I still vividly remember the time I picked up my first guitar, a baby Taylor. It was and still is a sweet-sounding guitar. As time passed, I started dreaming of being a rock star so I sorta bugged my parents for an electric guitar. But alas, I've to admit I had a very immature, limited and well slightly raw taste of musical genres then. So I got myself an Ibanez RG which I've to say has served me well for the past 4 years and has been my go-to axe of choice. But as genre preferences develop and change, so do guitar preferences. And what I'd absolutely REALLY wanna get my hands on now is.. a Gretsch Duo Jet. AWESOME guitar; 'nuff said. Killer finish and superb tone. Any other reason? Well cos The Edge(U2) utilizes a Duo Jet from time to time as well. Even Bono has been spotted playing one.

What a Beeauooty.

Close-up.

Next on my little list here, is a Nikon D90. Keane, need I say more? Haha. Keane and Brian played around with Darren's D90 a while ago; comparing their respective D80's and.. let's just say they both felt like throwing away their babies after doing so and getting themselves a D90 too. So yea, I got the chance to tinker with one as well and all I can say now is it's a damn good camera. It's like a "D300 crammed into a smaller body, say a D80", quote Keane. And besides, it's the first SLR with a HD video mode; but only with a limit of 5 minutes. Well, good enough for me! And unlike the D80 (which it is based on), the D90 sports oodles more kick-ass features like built-in stereo speakers and also the necessary cabling for a full Dolby 5.1 surround sound setup. Oh, the ISO? 100-6400! I'm sure by now I'm talking gibberish so go check out the reviews yourself.

They say you're either a watch, belt or shoes person. I love shoes but hey, it def won't hurt to own a kick-ass timepiece. I do already own a few watches and I'd be receiving a Longines for my birthday but what I really really wanna own is a Tag Heuer Carrera. I was immediately stoked the first time I laid eyes on it. It's so effortlessly stylish and versatile; it won't look out of place at a cocktail reception, makes you stand out at a party, pair it with slacks and a polo tee to shed a few years if you're in your 30's, adds a touch of class when paired with straight-cut jeans, a fitted tee and my Lacoste sneakers, and it def won't look out of place when you're signing that million dollar deal.

Oh $$$$, where art thou?

I def wouldn't be able to afford the Tag Carrera with my paycheck! But I'm pretty sure the rest of the things listed above won't be labelled under my "wish list" anymore cos hey, I'll be turning 18 soon baby; which means presents, Mum and Dad! Haha.

Laters.

A Prom(pt) Update.

2008-10-26T18:57:00.003+08:00

Hello folks!

Just a quick update and sort of reminder.Loads of people have been asking me about the availability of prom tickets. So to those who're interested, here's a little update.

Prom tickets (SMKTS Prom Night '08, obviously) are selling really fast. To those who're still interested in purchasing a ticket or tickets, please, if possible do, make your purchase by this month of October to avoid disappointment. Availability of tickets cannot be guaranteed after the month of October.

Thank you and all the best in preparing for the upcoming SPM examinations.

Laters.

Reason or Rhyme.

2008-10-08T15:04:00.004+08:00

I wish I'd be able to come up with a recipe everyday to blog about and share with you guys but alas, time constraint and the fast approaching SPM examinations have kept me from doing so. And also because I'm still a student, not a practicing chef as some readers would've thought. Haha.

Okay before I go on, here's a little disclaimer: the following is NOT in any way an advertisement or a means of free publicity.

So here's the gist of it. Or rather to put it simply. My guitar mentor, Adrian Chew, is in a band called Crimson Epiphany. Yeap, the guy who owns the Gretsch Duo Jet. You might or might not have heard of them and if you haven't, here's a little peek into their music.

Anyways, they've been making waves on the local charts and they're within a whisper of claiming top spot in the Malaysian Top 10 chart show, Met 10, on hitz.fm. They've come a long way and have worked ever so hard, so i believe that they deserve to claim pole position this week. To vote for their song, click HERE. The song's called Reason or Rhyme, by the way.

Support your local music industry. Who knows, one day you might be standing in line to purchase a Re-Pulse CD ? *Wishful thinking* Haha.

Laters.

Razor Clam Pasta (Spaghettini).

2008-09-26T19:02:00.009+08:00

This post has been a long delayed one.

This is merely a serving suggestion; and also one for the album ;)

Check out the size of those clams; massive eh?

Yea it's time for another recipe. I've tried this pasta a little over thrice and tweaked and played with the ingredients and flavours along the way.

The freshest produce and ingredients are always a joy to work with. Get the freshest seafood for this dish, not necessarily still swimming but as fresh as you can get, it really makes a difference. But if you're hard up on time and you've got to get some chow on the table, defrosting your seafood is fine too, just that you'd lose a bit of its sweetness and 'seafood-y' flavour. But don't despair, all is not lost.

This pasta dish is sort of like a cross between an aglio olio and a pasta con vongole, garlic olive oil and clam pasta respectively. But I've added a rather peculiar and unconventional mix, using Chinese Cooking Wine (Shao Hsing Hua Tiao Chiew) instead of white wine. Reasons being that I actually the heady taste of it and there were no white wines around my house at the time of cooking. Yes the latter is pretty sad. Cos my parents are pretty devoted fans of red and I'm well not of legal age. (Hmm..?). Back to the Chinese Cooking Wine; if you don't like it, you can leave it out, no problem. This recipe also doesn't require the use of cream.

The prawns; I coked them separately and later added them to the clams and pasta. But you can cook them together with the clams as well. Spaghettini is a thinner version of spaghetti, often referred to as 'angel hair pasta'. Fret not, spaghetti or linguine can be used as well.

Okay enough talk, here it is.

Razor Clam Spaghettini
Recipe by Tan Kel Vin.

(Serves 4)

- 2 heaped tablespoonfuls of finely chopped garlic
- 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
- 1-2 fresh chillies, finely chopped
- A large handful of flat-leaf parsley, roughly chopped

- 1/2 a lemon
- Some olive oil
- 500g good-quality dried spaghettini or spaghetti
- 800g-1kg of razor clams, preferably the large ones,
cleaned and debearded
- 8-10 large king prawns, peeled, heads removed and deveined
(save the heads to make seafood or fish stock, very flavourful)
- 1/2 a cup of Chinese Cooking Wine; alternatively a large
wineglass of white wine.
- Salt and black pepper

First of all, soak clams in salted water for a few minutes. Drain and pick through the clams, removing any impurities and barnacles. Discard the bad and nasty-smelling ones, obviously.

Cook the spaghetti or whatever pasta you'd be using according to packet instructions in a large pan of salted boiling water. When cooked al dente, drain the pasta in a colander. To cook pasta al dente, simply cook pasta 1 minute less than packet instructions. And using salted water to cook pasta is a MUST.

While the pasta is cooking, heat a splash of olive oil in a large saucepan and cook the onions. Then add the garlic. Once the onions have turned a little translucent, throw in the clams and prawns with the white wine or Chinese Cooking Wine. Cover with a lid and give it a good shake. Cook for a couple of minutes until all the clams have opened. Discard the ones that remain closed. Toss in your cooked pasta and stir around, adding a little more olive oil if necessary. Squeeze some lemon juice and season to taste with salt and pepper while tossing the pasta around. Serve immediately.

To garnish and add a little more flavour to the pasta, sprinkle the chopped chilli and parsley all around and over the pasta.

It's that simple.

Laters.

Love & Beauty.

2008-09-21T15:00:00.005+08:00

Sorry had to steal this, Keane!

I still can't get over how they managed to squeeze and compact an abstract focal point into one hour. Many were left dazed and slightly gaping . Some thought it was riveting. I thought it was riveting. Kudos Chee Pang and Ollie! And also espesh Chris Ling.

The cool thing about this play is that the director, Chris Ling, told the cast to add their own flair and individualistic styles to the whole thing. So the lighthearted scenes were typically and entrancingly familiar, they had "CHEE PANG" written all over it. Haha. And the sex scene was disturbingly realistic too. Like wow. Like devout Jais officers would sooo flip at the sight.

I can even imagine my moral teacher gasping "Astagafirullahazzzim..!!". Or exclaiming it, more like.

Anyways, I'm no critic so I'll say no more. But I enjoyed it.

Laters.

I'm Hungry for Home.

2008-09-17T17:44:00.004+08:00

Well err, I actually feel kinda shy talking about this.

So for full story, check out the missus' blog.

I can't believe I'm actually shy to talk about this. Haha.

Laters.

Your Blissful Ignorance.

2008-09-11T20:01:00.004+08:00

Yea, look what that has gotten you into. Oh wait, perhaps you don't even notice. Gosh, wake up dear boy. It ain't doing you any good. IN fact, you're digging your social outcast hole a little deeper. Don't go wondering at the end of the day as to why you'd be at the receiving end of seemingly nonchalant cold shoulders. You're not living alone; you can't just do as you please, pissing everyone off. You've been bloody warned.

On a lighter(if I may call it) note, SPM trials have begun. Oh, the joy. More like agony and unabashed nail-biting nervousness.

The crunch papers have yet to come, the science subjects. Haha. This is what a seventeen year old Malaysian goes through.

Laters.

Illuminate.

2008-09-09T16:45:00.004+08:00

Above is the invite to Shirts4Real's 'Illuminate' range launch.

When? 12th September o8', 3PM
Where? Positive Cafe, Subang.

Be there. They aren't just another T-shirt label; the designers create each piece with one reason in mind; which is to impact the lives of others. For more details and a more accurate account of Shirts4Real's origins, click on their blog.

For full details on the launch, go visit their website.

See you there.

Laters.

Sulking No More.

2008-09-02T21:06:00.005+08:00

Dimitar Berbatov, more affectionately known by fans as 'Berba' or Berby' has finally put to bed his supposedly unending transfer saga (albeit after months of speculation and unrest) and penned a four-year deal for £30.75million.

He's actually smiling!!

I can't help but breathe a sigh of relief. Why? Cos' Manchester City made an uncharacteristic and superbly late bid for Berba too. And also cos' the Red Devils are really looking like toothless piranhas up front. Which is pretty paradoxical considering the stupendous amount of goals racked up last season. Oh yea, that was when that boy Ronaldo was in sensational form; experiencing a seemingly infinite purple patch and ruthlessness in front of goal.

But we've got Berby now!

As always, there was a mad rush before the transfer window closed. A plethora of last ditch signings were made and at the centre of all that drama was (believe it or not, I can't actually), Manchester City. Oh yes, Thaksin did finally leave; only to be snapped up by Abu Dhabi United Group. And City's new owner, Dr Sulaiman Al-Fahim, was quoted saying' "I'm the new Abramovich." Hello mister, just about every owner of BPL clubs have been quoting that. But well, at least Dr Sulaiman's a realistic man, appearing to acknowledege that the real hunt will begin nest season though the club has had a promising start to the season.

Loads more happened before the close, though.

For the complete lowdown, click here.

Laters.

Panic, Sial.

2008-09-01T22:01:00.003+08:00

It has been a week now since my interview with Brendon Urie of Panic at the Disco was featured in R.AGE. Check it out here. It's actually been a month already since I interviewed Brendon but R.AGE was on a 3 weeks hiatus then so it was only published after that.

It's not the biggest of deals, really. I'd consider getting to play(or actually only just getting the feel of playing) a Gretsch Duo Jet w/ Bigsby a bigger deal. Haha. (The very fortunate owner of that brilliant piece of musical craftsmanship is none other than Adrian Chew of Crimson Epiphany).

The very good people at The Star, the Youth and R.AGE section helmed by Niki Cheong in partuclar, gave me the opportunity to meet Panic and I jumped at the chance. I had to, as did all the other BRATs, send in an essy stating my reasons why'd Panic'd be my dream interview. To cut the long story short, I got it. Thanks guys, once again.

Yeap, that's Brendon.

Oh the link? Here.

Laters.

Never See Birthday Before Ah?

2008-08-20T21:18:00.005+08:00

Today's the 20th. Means that tomorrow is Sheng Li's birthday! Wait. Is it? Oh yea yea it is.

We've deflowered Sheng Li. No no, not in that context la sicko. All we did was just treating her to lunch at Jogoya and buying her a nice little birthday cake with all the trimmings. She even asked the missus to come along =) So nice of her, eh?

As happy as a kid in a candy store. Haha.

Yes, she had trouble cutting the cake. She went like "EH WHY CANNOT CUT?!"

Check out the missus' blog for a short video. But the dumbest moment by far and probably the highlight of the whole time was when Aaron (of Aaron i stupid no_) happily and very loudly went "Never see people celebrate birthday before ah?!!" when the other customers shot us peculiar glances while we sang Sheng Li her birthday song. Oh, yes that whole little commotion was caught on video too.

No food photos/ shots as everyone was busy either stuffing themselves silly, making repeated trips to the bathroom, or having fagging breaks in between.

Jogoya hasn't changed much; their forte is still in their extensive selection of the very fresh sushi and sashimi. And they now serve Haagen Dasz ice cream in place of Movenpick.

Yes, they still serve young Thai coconuts.

Laters.

When We Do.

2008-08-14T23:31:00.006+08:00

We never know when it's going to strike. But when it does it takes you out so fast and cold you're left in a daze, shaken, bewildered, somewhat amused and utterly traumatised by it all. It's tragedy waiting to strike. Then we wonder.. "what if"..or "I could've, would've, I might already be..wait that's a scary thought.. Then it strikes; how precious and incredibly fragile, this, what we call and refer to as life.

It is undoubtedly scary. Terrifying even. But thank God, you're alright.

I'm not revealing what all this is about. I won't want to steal my very dear friend's thunder, so wait up and check it out here in about two days at most. Considering if I even still have a following/ readers. Haha. But please do check it out.

Thank You for every moment that I'm still breathing.

Laters.

Set The Twilight Reeling.

2008-06-16T23:12:00.010+08:00

Hello folks, form 5's of SMKTS in particular, prom tickets are now on sale! The theme for this year's prom is "Set The Twilight Reeling", based on your votes.

Details are as follows;

Time : Doors open at 1900 hours; 7 p.m.

Date : 12th December 2008

Venue : Millennium Ballroom, Grand Millennium Kuala Lumpur

Tickets are priced RM150. Early Bird Tickets are priced at RM130; only 33 Early Bird Tickets are up for grabs so, better hurry.

Yes I know you guys'd start whining, griping and complain about the price but before that please please take note the rice and petrol price hikes earlier this year and just recently respectively have directly and significantly altered the price of the tickets. Do understand, people.

But i can definitely assure you that it's going to be great and whomsoever partaking in attendance will have a blast and walk away feeling pleased and maybe a little reminisce. That's a promise. And oh here's a little sneak preview.

Spiffily posh innit?

So, be there or be square!

Laters.

Whattheff.

2008-06-08T19:04:00.017+08:00

Check out Re-Pulse's new site; revamped, reconstructed, redid, well basically we deleted the old account and started afresh. Remember to please check out our demo's. Many thanks!

Oh heck. I hate this. Schools' starting tomorrow. And with it comes renewed drive and initiative to focus more and be that extra bit more diligent. Hopefully. Actually I could use some of that. Heck, I absolutely NEED that!!!

Just got back from Singapore not long ago. And by going down south I missed Click 5 in concert and The Star's Green Fest. Not that I'm a huge fan of Click 5 but the missus was going so yea.

Down south was very enjoyable. 3D2N trip. Last ditch trip before school reopens after a two-week hiatus. But Singapore was a welcome and refreshing change to KL. I visit that country every year save for the last but only on this trip did it hit how very different it is from Negaraku. And how quite far behind we are from our brother down south. I mean Singapore. We're at least 6 years behind?

And it's a welcome change to see, for example instead of the 'culturally challenged/confused' you get to see at Sungei Wang on weekends, you are treated to instead women and men alike impeccably and trendily dressed, textbook stuff, off the magazine pages- skinny jeans, that 'in' bag, suedes, the works. And men carrying totes are not at all a rarity. In fact, you find them in abundance. Espesh men carrying Gucci's. And oh, I stumbled upon this dude slinging this incredibly cool one around.

All I could nail down is this picture, I tried googling the 'brand' but to no avail. But yea, it's cool innit?

Singaporeans can reeeaaaally shop. But it's unsurprising. They have a higher spending power and income per quota and dollar-to-dollar compared to Malaysians. So I was told that's it's a common sight to see long queues at LV, Prada, Gucci, Aigner, Miu Miu, Chanel, Kenzo and the like. And young professionals and older folks alike lugging around bags and bags containing all their designer barang's.

Another reason to "readily" embrace this country is for the streets and public places are unbelievably safe . Well it's much safer than ours over here. No fear of your tote bag being snatched while tucking in at Taka's food court, definitely.

And the cabs over there are uber efficient. Two thumbs up. And oh, no such thing as motorcycle gangs and such. Sweet.

Their quirkiness is also noteworthy enough. Like, ever come across a restaurant with a Chinese name translating into "Mafia's Lair"? But in English it comes across much simpler, aptly named "Bosses".

If you can read Chinese, what does it mean?

Table came with a spectacular view, though.

Anyways, there's also this funky little shop called New Urban Male down at Vivo City. Their stuff, (mainly their tees) are wicked. They have this particular line called David and Goliath. And it's supposedly a spoof of Mr. Men and Little Miss. Some go:

Hehe.

Eh?

Yeap yeap. Oh yea, Tony Roma's over there serve pork ribs in place of beef!! Damn good. Must try.

And oh before I forget, KLPac's having this play, and me as a friend of a few of the casts would like very much for as many people as possible support it. Go go!

Laters.

Bright Rovi.. BRATs la!

2008-06-02T18:40:00.002+08:00

I wouldn't at all be surprised if i were the last person from the Penang Workshop to blog about BRATs. But let me say this, joining BRATs has got to be one of the better decisions I've made thus far this year. No shit. By the way BRATs stands for Bright Roving Annoying TeenS

In case you're wondering, BRATs is a young journalist/writers program held on a yearly basis by The Star, a leading daily in the country. it’s been around since 1993, which makes this the 15th year since its launch. every year, applications are open to youths all over Malaysia from the ages of 16-19, to participate in camps in a variety of places.

I'll be talking about this whole workshop experience from a personal point of view or rather, my point of view.

To be honest, I headed north to Penang (where the workshop was held) without much expectations and even less enthusiasm. But there was still a slight measure of zeal and excitement la, of course. What more when it's going to be held in Penang, my all-time favourite among the states in Malaysia thus far.

Well to put it simply, the BRATs workshop was plain awesome. I loved and enjoyed (almost) every minute of it.

There's just so many things to say about the workshop. The people, activities, games, tasks, assignments and what not. And I'm damn lazy to talk about them all. Among the people I know who've "properly" blogged about the workshop are Sandra, Michelle, Sandheep , Joye and Qisthina.

So yea, go ahead and check them out.

Euphoric.

2008-05-23T22:34:00.004+08:00

Finally something worthwhile shouting about? Hell yeah.

The holy grail of European club football. Sweet sweet sweet.

The sheer ecstasy of landing the thier (or OUR, collectively as fans; one UNITED, baby!) fist Champions League title in almost ten years. Years of hurt vehemently erased in a single night; a night of what dreams are made of. But, it wasn't that simple, mind you. It's been a gruelling season, one that has tested many a footballer's virtues; physically and mentally. No lest can we forget that moment of madness from one Ivorian. Well, he didn't do a Zidane but it was just as bad. Lesson learnt, Serbian-slapper?

It was great la, well done Man united.

Rising to the big occasion. That boy Ronaldo.

Glory glory Man united.

Markerchowhigh.

2008-01-19T11:09:00.000+08:00

We're inevitable victims of our own bloody system.We nevertheless and almost too often nonchalantly let them pry, pick and play with our seemingly unaware minds and actions. It's bloody sickening. We do, from time to time question their authrotiy and such but heck, what're words when they're not implied. Dare to talk cock but not do it. So what's best? Turn a deaf ear, close one eye, gag up, I guess. I won't haress nor pinpoint any particular individuals/ parties/ bodies/ etc. We've got people like Patrick Teoh and Rocky to do so. So it's best to just shuddup lo..

But why oh why make us go back to school on sarturdays for 4 consecutive weeks? Please la fellas. Argh. Wanna give longer school break just ammend la. It's uncalled for to make us replace the school days. Extra stress. Markerchowhigh. Espesh when you have parents like mine who force you to attend on saturdays given that there's school.

No food review this time around. Haven't uploaded pics yet. But I've got a recipe for you guys to whip up. It's what most blokes'd cook when they're feeling plain lazy. It's good comfort food too.

All Day Breakfast Hash.
- 4-6 rashers smoked streaky bacon, roughly torn (plain porks one'll be fine)
- 4 white button mushrooms, thinly sliced
- 3 fresh shiitake, thinly sliced
- 1 large onion, roughly chopped
- 1 large tomato,roughly chopped
- 1/2 red pepper
- some carrot, diced
- some day-old crusty or sandwich bread, lightly buttered
- 1/3 cup pureed tomatoes (optional)
- Dried oregano (optional)
- a little sprinkling of gruyere or parmesan cheese (optional)
- A few knobs of butter (I'm sure you'd be able to estimate)
- Some olive oil or any other oil
- salt and pepper to taste

1. Throw about 2-3 slices of bread into oven or toaster for about 3-4 minutes at most.

2. Heat pan. Once pan is heated, throw in a knob of butter and a little olive oil (Remember NEVER to use extra virgin olive oil for frying). Sweat the onions a bit. Seasoin with a little salt and pepper. Throw in the bacon.

3. When the bacon is at your desired crispness, the mushrooms go into the pan. Let the mushrooms sweat a little before adding the tomato puree (if using).

4. Once the mushrooms have softened and absorbed the juices from the bacon and onion, add the red peppers and chopped tomatoes.

5. Get your toasted bread and add to the pan. The bread will sort of absorb all that lovely juices from the earlier ingredients already cooking away in the pan.

6. Throw in the carrots at this point. Carrots are the last to be cooked cos you'd want a little crunch against all that slight mushiness of the tomatoes and stuff. Sprinkle with a little dried oregano and the above mentioned cheese(s) before serving. You can omit the cheese and dried oregano, it'll still turn out fine. Serve warm.

Simple eh? For me, it's got all the stuff I love; bacon, mushrooms, onion, tomatoes, cheese. Brilliant. It's a typical bloke's kind of comfort food.

Laters.

Biar Betul.

2008-01-10T16:29:00.000+08:00

I'm 17. Will be sitting for SPM this year. And heck, it probably'd be much more than a common thing for others my age to lament, sulk, complain and bitch about the already obscene amount of workload given to and expected from us. But, I'll just let the others do the complaining.

Today's Awal Muharam so obviously, there's no school; it's a public holiday. And suffice to say, I haven't done anything much of particular productivity as of yet. Haven't heard from the band guys, the missus' busy entertaining some mates, keane's being a twat, traffic's probably killer today, no one's feeling sporty to play futsal today, I've ran out of dvds to watch, there's nothing awesome in the fridge to whip up or create, so technically, it's a pretty screwed up day i suppose. i hate just sitting around and not being able to move about or get or go out.

So I decided that I'd just do another food review.

Let's give the French a run for their money.

That above, is a Hong Kong roast duck. Where to find it? Loong Foong Restaurant, SEA Park, Petaling Jaya. It's a corner shop lot, on the way to the Taman Paramount LRT Station. It's not a typical 'Tai Tong-ish' restaurant but rather an open-air 'tai chow' place. Back to the duck. Why's it good? Cos they serve their ducks straight outta their own door-less oven. And the meat is firm but tender and has the right degree of juiciness. Nothing short of good. They sell an average of up to more than 50+ ducks a day and is usually sold out before 2030 hours. Bookings and reservations recommended.

Beijing or Peking roast duck is not to be confused with the Hong Kong version. The Beijing version is smaller in size and after roasting, it's skin removed to be eaten with egg pancakes or crepes. In my opinion, I'd prefer the Hong Kong version as it has a more robust aroma and flavour, especially the ones sold at this particular outlet. The French like their duck rare and pink, but we Chinese believe in cooking our food really through. All in all, the Hong Kong roast duck served at this outlet hits all the right notes in the aroma, taste and texture department. And oh, it'll set you back RM40 for a whole bird, which will comfortably feed 4 or 5. If you're a fan of duck meat or dishes, this won't disappoint.

Laters.

Crunch Time.

2008-01-06T16:08:00.000+08:00

Pinch me. It's 2008 already. Wait, school's started already. It really does feel weird going back to school, unusual; surreal almost. It's not that I'm complaining- it just feels queer at the end of the 2 months break we've been given; to return to the routine we were given a hiatus from in the first place.

Anyways. I'm sort of like bumming around waiting for the rain to stop (so I could get out and go play soccer) so decided I'd blog to kill a little time. Yes, very unlike me. But, I tweaked and played around with some itty bitty settings on my laptop and voila, I'm able to access Blogger now. (In case you're wondering, it has never permitted me to blog for some unknown reason.)

As my parents, sisters and some close friends can testify (or even complain or detest), I critic food like hell. I take pictures of them and stuff, very much like a typical food reviewer, save that reviews aren't done incognito. So here are some of the better eats I've had the chance to sample these past few weeks.

First up, is the Nasi Lemak sold at the coffe shop behind Maybank at SEA Park, Petaling Jaya. Take note that it only opens at around 7ish in the evening till late, so that even hungry clubbers and the like can grab a bite after a night out as it closes around 3 to 4ish in the morning.

How good can a Nasi Lemak get? For me, this has got to be one of the best tasting Nasi Lemak's I've tasted in a long while. The rice itself, is cooked damn well, laced with the right amount of coconut cream and given a further lift with knots of pandan leaves thrown in. It is served with a pece of fried chicken and 'mata kerbau' egg or sunny side up, (chicken and egg optional, of course), slices of cucumber, copious amounts of fried silver anchovies and groundnuts and of course, sambal at the side. For me, the fried chicken is awesome, no shit. It's that typical ones that you get ar mamak joints but imagine a mile better, extremely juicy, tender, crisp skin and straight outta fryer. Lovely! But, the sambal's a tad too watery though. But all in all, a definite must try. Sheng Li, Aaron and EmoJo love it. So most people I know.

Wait, the rain's stopped already. That's my queue to go. I'll leave the other food reviews for another day.

Laters.

You are what you eat.

Bummer.

2007-12-30T01:02:00.000+08:00

Come and gone, the Yuletide season has. Somehow, for reasons unbeknownst, I honestly didn't really 'feel' that Christmasy 'feeling'. *Quote Sandra* Anywyas, is Christmas supposed to be tangible? I don't know. Well, at least knowing the true reason and meaning amidst all those festivities'd suffice. No? Heck. 2days from now and we'd all welcome 2008. And with it all its unventured and uncertain forays, awaiting to be unravelled. But it bloody smacks hard; it's SPM year. Make or break, baby.

And I'm able to pen this post now courtesy of the very thoughtful managerial staff of the hotel which i happen to be residing now while vacationing in Penang. G Hotel.

I dunno man. Lotsa things've changed in Penang. The Char Kueh Teows don't really taste as good as it used to.

Heck. I'm honestly just typing this post for the sheer heck of it. I'm just utilising the free WiFi that the hotel's offering my parents and me via the exec. lounge cos we're allowing them to dig deeper into our bank accounts in exchange for a more comfy albeit temporary living space.

I misss all of you fellas, Shengers, Aaron, the lot la.

And oh, you too, little girl =(

Laters.

Hiatus (Like I Ever Needed One).

2007-11-07T23:39:00.000+08:00

Picture this; A boy. Sitting atop an abandoned residential apartment project. Dilapidated walls, shattered glass, aged concrete, mossy tiles, the works.

Shit la. I'm so sorry fellas for not updating in ages (months, more like.) I've been getting loads of stick for not doing so. But I'm not penning this post cos of that; I just feel this (very sudden) urge to do so. But I bet most people'd stop or given up viewing my blog anyway. Haha.

Anyways, been contributing most of my time and sweat lately towards (yes, lads) my job. Yes la, common sight, cliche way to while away the 2 months school break. But, I must say, it is definitely more than just about the money. For me, the focal reason that i chose to get myself a job is to gain (invaluable) experience. The money's a bonus and a plus point. And to broaden my views and perspectives on everday life, the rat race, the corporate ladder, internal conspiracies and disputes, the works.

And I can honestly say that through working there (La Gourmet House), I've learnt a whole new lot of things and gained knowledge and unexchangeable experiences that I wouldn't ever trade for. And I daresay that these experiences have in turn made itself into a catalyst that'll mold me; my demanour, personality, attitude (definitely and hopefully for the better) and in turn my future pathways and forays as well.

Whoo. Enough about myself and work.

Anyways, following below are the steps and stuff thet you need to make a 'cocktail' which I concocted late one night after returning from work. Yes, a wee bit of alcohol is used. Use a beer glass for this, not beer mugs or wine glasses as it needs suffificient amounts of the involved liquids.

Peach Infused Red Bubbly
-San Pellegrino or soda water (sparkling water like Perrier'd do too)
-Approx. 3 or 4 teaspoons of peach syrup (preferably Monin)
-Good red wine preferably shiraz
-Few wedges of lemon

(Shakers aren't necessary for this drink but using one will bring out the earthy flavours of the shiraz, giving the drink a fuller taste.)

Start off by filling the glass until 3 quarters with ice. Then in with the soda water. followed by the peach syrup. Stir with a bar or dessert spoon. Then the red wine, approx 2 to 2 and a 1/2 tbps or to taste. Finish off with a squeeze of lemon juice. Don't forget to stir! There you have it. Voila.

A shortcut to making this drink in the absence of Monin peach syrup and soda water is by using peach sodas. So you'd only have to use the peach soda instead of soda water and peach syrup. Glinter( a new Taiwanese brand) peach flavoured sodas will do fine.

Using soda water, peach sodas or sparkling water like San Pellegrino or Perrier will 'lift' the red wine, thus creating 'red champagne' or bubbly. (Champagnes, bubblies and bruts are normally white.)

And in the absence of shiraz wines, cabernet sauvignon, sauvignon blanc or just red table wines will do too. Note that the colour and taste won't be as intense as when using shiraz espesh in the case of it being substituted with red table wines.

This concoction tastes similar to that of a spanish local alcoholic drink called Sangria, just that Sangria is grape-based.

Watch this space lads, more recipes and concoctions coming your way. Off to work now.

Laters.

Blad-deh.

2007-08-04T22:35:00.000+08:00

WHAT ARE WE?! EIGHT NATION ARMY!!

(Repeat 3 times for intimidating effect, follow up with 3 hearty roars ala Spartan style!)

(We look like a bunch of shorty's in this one)

That, above is our battle cry, our own unadulterated version of the Haka dance. The 4 Cempaka futsal team, that is. Man, that's what we're in high school for, annual fundraisers like Soccerthon where the pitch (in this case, court) becomes our canvas.

Prior to penning this post, I had a late dinner with just one can of Heine (I'm home alone, brilliant), plopped my plate on the floor beside the laptop and looked up at my bedroom wardrobe/life-size mirror and blimey.. my face was like red. As in Kah Ken-red.. No no no... this can't be happening, I've never gotten red over just a can.. then it struck me, *was under the scorching heat the whole morning till noon la, doink* As quickly as I've panicked, I settled down.

So anyways, futsal. It was tough and harsh, to say the least; tournament's being played with a knock-out system, that means you've only one shot to make it or break it, to the next round, that is. And praise God, we somehow (I wouldn't say 'deservedly' but most of the form 4's would beg to differ) got to the final after 4 gruelling matches. Alas, we went down fighting (very hard) in the final to a younger side.

We lost via conceding a stupendous goal which hasn't the slightest right of standing. Infuriating. Even En. Zol was lamenting about us not swooping the gold which he believed we more than deserved at the least. In all honesty, we were the much better side, creating more clear-cut chances and ratttling the post like, what, twice? And that doesn't include our attempts which flashed across their goalmouth and a snap-shot from Kai Ming which sailed just over the bar.

Yea, tell me about it. But, it's football, which is, after all similar in many ways to life, you win some and you lose (very undeservingly) some.

And kudos and congrats to you guys who swiped the gold. You guys played very unadventurous soccer; but it somehow, which still baffle the odds, made you guys nick it. Stranger than fiction. Haha.

A foiled attempt at bombarding the opposing goal.

" A given opportunity is a wasted one should it not be used to monkey around."

In full flight when required.

Kai Ming bamboozling the (hapless) opposing defenders.

I had my fair share too. Hehe.

Drifting right, swaying left.

And it's..... it's in the back of the net. Schhweeet.

Spot the ball. No prizes for guessing though. Haha.

All in a day's hard work.

Fellas, give yourselves a more than deserved pat on the back; we played out of our skins today; working tirelessly every given minute of every match, playing REAL soccer... Fellas, we played it how it should be played. We kept it real. Beautiful. Just that lady luck wasn't on our side in the final. I can't put into words how proud I am to have captained this team. Altogether now, what are we?! Haha.

Laters.

Fluurry.

2007-07-17T19:59:00.000+08:00

If you're wanting a little time out from all the epic-ish movies you've been watching this year, you're in for more than a treat. It's non-stop laughter from start to finish. But all the full-blown humour are bounded together by strong family values, which make this disfunctional family all the more lovable (not like it already isn't).

Rather surprisingly, it has taken the household cartoon series 18 years to make it's silver screen debut, despite it being the highest grossing animated series in the world with an estimated net worth of 20 billion USD. Staggering. I read the papers, man. Haha.

Admittedly, I'm not a true blue (in this case, yellow?) Simpsons fan, nor am i won over. But I still did thoroughly enjoyed it, catching it on the second day of its opening. But purists'd say it's fallen flat on a few fronts, labelling it as 'just another extended episode' *Quote; Sandra*. But yet, they'd concede that it was every bit enjoyable. So go catch it!

In conjunction with the relase of the movie, Samsung Mobiles've snatched this golden opportunity to launch The Simpsons' limited ed. phones. Talk about branding, eh.

Microsoft's hopped in the bandwagon too.

Laters.

Pucker' Up.

2007-07-13T23:37:00.000+08:00

It's dead. It's gone. It's going to the dogs. Down the frigging monsoon rain. Maybe not now yet but it will be before long. And when all these happens which, trust me, it darn frigging will, you'd only yourself to blame and lie in the wake of your own sinister mistakes and (mis)doings.

Sounds appealing enough? They should, becuase you just might very well taste them. And wonder we shall, what your corresponding actions'll be. But oh, no, you wouldn't and couldn't at all acknowledge your own impudent ignorance. You think you're right. As a matter of fact, you always think you are.

Were you right there to bear witness to how things actually ran and went about? Were you there to actually see the friggin' system work? How yould you know that the people you apparently claim to trust, (which is really shocking and disgusting that you do), are the very ones cussing and cursing you to your grave? And you trust them becuase of their chiselled smiles and utterly, vague, bogus and superficial mannerisms?

Because they never fail to shower you with lavish praises and butter your behind and try to look the part for everything? Because they always just friggin' present themselves better than the rest of us?

Hey, I'm going to enlighten you here. Im'ma bang some sense and truth into you. Let it hit you so hard you'd be taken out cold. Those suck-ups, what good are they? Oh yes, sure they can do all your miscallenous itty-bitty chores for you, but when something of pure substance, something that requires dilligence, brut and vigour comes up, do they look the part? Are they the part? Do they or can they actually make the cut? They'd back off and scatter, and whimper on their sorry little asses.

Yes, they may loook so smug now but let's see how they actually cope when the going gets tough. We'll friggin' see. Their commitment's all over the place. They just look so into this whole shit now cos they're plainly, power-hungry. Control freaks. People, perfect example of "Arrogant, selfish desires Greatly-surpassing slef-capabilities". Yes, suck-ups, shoe-shiners and asswipes have a whole new look, guys. Be on the look-out.

And oh, back to you, which I've left out momentarily, I've loads more to say. so much more, in fact. I'll save them for later. All I've got to say now is; Wake up. Let some REAL sense get into that head of yours. You're brilliant, intellectually. But your EQ level's something any given person wouldn't be proud of. You're stifling potential; smothering raw capabiliities. There's only one way you're taking us; Down.

On a much lighter note, I caught the Order Of The Phoenix trailer which came up on the tube a few minutes ago. One word. Stoked. Like totally. But not as stoke-worthy as Transformers or 300. (Those two are like guy movies). But it still did send some of my pulses raising though. Whoo! Gotta gotta watch.

Weng Kit-the-crotch-grabber's reckoned it's a flop. So did Khean Khen-too-much-money. Heck, they caught it on premier!! Yea, the both of them.

Michael, who turned a full 16 on Tuesday, and the rest of them guys (which I'm supposed to be a part of but NO, thanks to some first aid course my parents signed me up for), will be wtaching it this Sunday. Yes, without me. Blood-deh hell, Harry. And Sandra's watching it tommorrow. Bleah. Who'm I supposed to go watch it with? Def not with me parents, they wouldn't even have the least bit of interest. Thanks a bunch guys, for going ahead without me. (It's obvious I'm making you guys feel bad =p)

Laters.

Please..

2007-06-30T20:36:00.000+08:00

Seriously, please stop it already. If you like him so damn much, might as well go freaking adopt the boy!! It's tearing my frigging ass apart, and brusing my ego like hell. (wait, there's no ego whatsoever to be bruised). Thanks for killing off my apetite and dampening my spirits. Thanks a bunch, folks.

Another post penned in sheer annoyance, bordering on anger.

Laters.

Sweet 16, eh?

2007-06-30T18:17:00.000+08:00

So what if he scores better grades than I do? Fine, he's much more dilligent than me, putting in endless hours of sheer hardwork and hitting the books, while I spend most of mine lolling around toggling on my psp, chasing a soccer ball and packing off to camp after camps. And you wanted my hair cropped short just like his so I, according to you apparently wouldn't spend so much time 'in front of the mirror'. Just because he sits across me in class and he represents the school on the soccer front just like I do, I've to put up with all these stupid and noncensical comparisons? I've promised you I'll prove my prowess in a little over a few more months. And those aren't at all just vague promises, you have my word. And I do not go back on my words.

Jerrard, it's pretty darn obvious you're the subject my dad's comparing to. But please know that I've nothing, whatsoever at all against you. Cheers, mate =) (ring any bells *Stryker;Berke* haha)

Seriously pondering, there's not even the slightest truth in people claiming form 4 to be a "honeymoon year". Absolute bollocks la, if you'd ask me.

Well I, for one, am seriously finding it hard to catch up. Fine, I've been playing the fool most, if not all the time. Dunno la, there's just something about being in form 4, about being 16. You, or most of us, wanna just play all day, wanna have fun, fun and more fun. Seriously speaking, you'll
all somehow agree with me, there's no denying it.

And yes, all play and no work at all is hazardous. Makes you wait on death row for your time on the noose in the form of an unsightly Report Card *shudders*.

Hari RKA's come and pass, much to the (extreme) relieve of most students. Oh, RKA is the abbreviation for Rekod Kemajuan Akademik. Err, unnecessary info, that. More like Hari Raikan Kematian Aku for the unnattentive, meddling lot.

Sport's Day was two days after. Big day, for the athletes and direct participants that is. It's the same every year. March past, events, prize-giving, letsgohome. Why won't they ever organise an inter-house soccer or futsal or 3/5-a-side tourney?

This, is a no holds-barred, straight from the heart(profanities withdrawn), raw(eh?), heart-felt ramblings of a sixteen year-old.

I'm feeling bleah already. Not like I wasn't prior to this. And oh, debate:

" The house believes that death penalty should be abolished "

(Opposition all the way!)

Screw those berries. I'm off.

Laters.

Jerrard Is..

2007-06-19T22:47:00.000+08:00

Bald.

Yes oh yes. Blame the baldy, the baldy's always in the wrong. So says Sammie. So yes Jerrard, you'd be our everyday scapegoat till yout untidy mop starts sprouting again. Hah!

And yes, I promised pictures and all but heck, all the photos that've been transferred into the comp seems somehow or another to be missing. Shtupid. Fictitious shit. Tak guna. Bolodot!

Ish. I'm annoyed. Yes for a million and one reasons. This overworked brain is being a bit cranky and every bit unreasonable. It feels like working the nervous system into screaming profanities and all. No. I won't. That's just plain stupid. And pointless. Oh, bother.

I've gotta run la. I'm in my zone now; surely a post'd go up tmrw. So, wait.

Laters.

Surreal.

2007-06-09T12:45:00.000+08:00

I woke up this morning with a splitting headache and numbing aches over most parts of my body. No, not a hangover. Heck, NO. Probably due to a (extreme) lack of sleep and rest. And maybe also an overdose of reading and psp-ing.

I'm back. From China that is. and oh, before that, Penang. Which is, really, no real reason for me not to blog. let's just put it down to lazyness. heh.

Though I'm glad the whole China trip's over, I somehow still wished it hasn't, for reasons which still remain unbeknownst to me. And oh, btw, the place was Guangzhou (Canton). Why there? Seemingly, my mum's side and probabaly a (large? small?) part of me; our roots go all the way back there.

Man, it's not easy for a Malaysian Chinese to wholly stomach authentic Chinese (Cantonese) cuisine. Firstly the portions are huge. Then the number of dishes stretch to At Least a 14 each meal. They enjoy lotsa things that we typical (or maybe it's just me not being adventuruous enough) Malaysian Chinese eat; think goose's intestines, livers of sheeps, pork tripe, cow honeycomb tripe (that's not that bad, actually), and the livers of goose which are so huge they can pass as foie gras, and some other innards that'd make most cringe. And to top it all, the food is extremely oily. Wait, actually most, if not almost all. But it isn't that bad la, really. Takes time getting used to.

But I really like the la zhiao jiang, or chilli oil paste, if I got it correct, that most of the restaurants there serve. Very unique taste. It has the texture of crushed dried red chillis with little dried chrimps, pickled salty taste on the palate, a heavy hint of pleasant pungency to it, and is wonderfully spicy.

And yes, the whole trip wouldn't've been that extra bit more fun (and bearable?) without my cousin (or step-cousin, rather), Alex. Lee Wei Ping! Pictures up later, prolly tmrw. Promise!

If there's one thing that I'd regret, it's not taking enough pictures. Heck. And eating too much without making much effort of hitting the hotel's gym. Bleah. Oh, the hotels we put up at were superb (it'd better be for the price we paid). Only later did I find out that there were most expensive hotels in the whole of Guangzhou. Unnecessary money squandered? Dunno.

Anyways, soccer's a-calling me now. will be back with a post soon with pictures, for real this time.

Laters.

Uncalled For.

2007-05-11T17:59:00.000+08:00

"I was never born to do math.." i muttered under my breath for seemingly the umpteenth time.

Grr.. Additional maths.. can kill you. Well, if you don't come prepared at least. But, the egoistically-complacently-lazy driven part of me told me I was good to go, ready to take on the behemoth that is the add. maths paper. But heck, I was on the backfoot from start to finish, racing against given time. Damn. Add. maths had me in its pocket. Had me for lunch, rather.

But then again, I could honestly swear I wasn't born to do maths, let alone enjoy manipulating numbers.

Well, a week down, one more to go.

As you would already've guessed, Tmn SEA's currently holding it's bi-annual exams period.

Besides the gloom and doom of exams..

While all the new shows like Heroes and Prisonbreak are garnering all the hype, I've chose to roll back the years a little bit. I've been hooked on Yu Yu Hakusho. Yeap, a Japanese anime. Not just any anime, mind you. It was and still is the highest grossing anime ever in the States. No mean feat for a Japanese Anime.

Off to tuiton now.

Laters.

Nonchalant Absentmindedness.

2007-05-03T15:32:00.000+08:00

I am grateful. Absolutely thankful. To whom or/for what? To my awesome God.

I'm still breathing. Unscratched. Perfectly sound- mentally, physically.

Never would I've thought that I'd get involved in a car crash this soon. Details, i don't wanna go into but here's the skinny- Green light. Car in front accelerates, so does my cousin. Car in front suddenly and abruptly, for no apparent reason, hits the jam breaks, going from 30 to 0 km/h in the splittest of seconds.. *Bang*

Personally, this minor, albeit 'expensive' incident has apprehensively served as a grim reminder, a wake up call, that this preciously fragile thing called life, can end up in tatters just like that.

I've a gazillion things to go on and on about but I'm just in no spirits to.

Thankful I really am.

Laters.

Roo's Night.

2007-04-26T16:09:00.001+08:00

Man Utd vs AC Milan 1st leg highlights.

I friggin need pictures to update! Wait up for a little bit more.

Laters.

Calma For A day.

2007-04-22T17:48:00.000+08:00

In all due respect, though I've lots to speak about.

Intricate.

2007-04-12T21:47:00.000+08:00

K: BlaBlaYadaYada.. It's just that the games you've planned are a little too intricate.
*: What's intricate?
F: Whoa. What's with the bombastic England?
*Blank stares all around*

A very small excerpt of my camp's post mortem. Alas, my deepest fears of my camp coming up short and inadequate have been partially realised. It can be summed though as being a better improvement from last year. And I surprisingly didn't lose my voice nor did it turn the slightest bit hoarse.

Lotsa pictures to put up but I'm yet to recieve them.

Anyways for all you soccerheads out there, this' something for y'all. Most of you might've seen it but oh well, it's worth a second peep.

Leo Messi, frigging 19 y-o?

And thankfully, Sanjaya's gotten the boot! I'm very sure I'm not the only one rejoicing abt this.

Largely insignificant post, this. One with pictures (yes, in brilliant Technicolour!)coming up.

Laters.

Unbridled Empathy.

2007-04-11T22:17:00.000+08:00

First things first;

Heck, the scoreboard more than says it all. It can't get any more emphatic than this, can it?

This match'll definately go down in man utd's history pages as one of the most significantly sublime and penultimate showcasing of their strength in depth (they were without 3-4 key players on the pitch itself), ruthless and effective attacking qualities, unflinching selflessness shown in the form of superb teamwork, sleek pasing, holding on to ball possesion, and deadly, ultra-pacy counter attacks.

Formation: 4-2-3-1. Ronaldo, Rooney and Ryan Giggs plied the attacking upper-end of the attacking midfield to devastating effect. They nonchalantly ran Roma ragged; to the ground.

What a match. Fletcher was superb, solid at containing Mancini. Giggs was classy and sublime through-and-through. Rooney roamed the pitch like he owned it. Carrick boasted the midfield from start to finish; putting 2 technically superb goals in between. Alan Smith, better known as Smudgey, worked tirelessly to wear down the Roma rearguard.

And of course there's only one Ronaldo, who rode tackles so effortlessly it was a joy to watch, relished everything thrown his way was deservingly named MOTM. He even capped off the evening with 2 well taken goals to his name.

I wished I was there at the Stretford shouting anthems at the top of my voice till it turns hoarse, to savour first-hand the sheer delirium of 74 700-odd like-minded passionate fans.

Heck, if Man Utd were to put in a display as scintillating as this week in week out, my condolences to the opposition, whoever you might turn out to be.

Glory, glory Man United.

Come And Gone; The Yuletide Season Has.

2006-12-27T01:22:00.000+08:00

Fine, I haven't updated in ages. sue me. been really busy; been here and there, jamming, gigging, shopping, travelling and of cos pigging out. and i'm at the island of The Kiasu at this very moment of writing (typing, rather).

Lotsa pictures to put up but that can wait till later when im back and im not so pei.

Anyways, Singapore shouldnt' be labelled the Land of The Kiasu. Anymore. through my dad's eyes it should instead be referred to as the Island of The Full-blown Queer. no bull-shitting. honest!

And btw, Happy Christmas, y'all!

By now i swear i know Orchard Road inside out. ive been shopping. A LOT. hardcore-shopping as Gracie calls it. Keane and Melvs (who both went down with me) really enjoyed their 3d-2n trip though they should've stayed longer. besides the shopping im sure they've put on a few pounds.

And oh, Sandra was down at singapore as well. unfortunately we didn't bump into each other.

Im damn sure ive got love-handles now. all the endless pigging out sessions. heck. new-year's resolution no. 1: Get FIT and back in shape.

that's all for now la folks. eyes really droopy now. promise you guys a better post with pics to go with it when im back.

laters.

What's "Poon"?

2006-12-09T01:59:00.000+08:00

my day today consisted of work, KLCC, dinner, Subang, Asia Cafe, futsal, home. 'nuff said. Feeling damn pei now.

I shocked Abigail today by choosing to chomp on salads instead of mains. "whatthefarg! you on a diet?" "no, imma eat healthy =)" she had a good laugh abt .

The stupidest thing happened later in the night though. 7 of us were stuck somewhere in subang trying to find the futsal place. We were so lost that it was funny. Sanjay and his cousins were just plain amusing la. cracking jokes with such natural fluidity it's as if they were born laughing.

I love being being blunt. sometimes. only sometimes.

Im constipated, emotionally. So many things to rant and go on abt but 'nuff said.

Superbly insignificant post, this. bother not reading this post.

laters.

John Dan Kelvs Ber-Emo Bersama-sama.

2006-12-08T03:22:00.000+08:00

My day started at 9 am today and im still up and running at 3.30am. im wide awake, mind you.

futsal. at my least favourite place, Footy Futsal, Taman Megah. the atmosphere's just not right somehow. It just doesnt conjure that futsal 'mood'.

Later then had tea with Sandra at Bangsar Village which also happens to be her work place. rather interesting i tell you; starbucks, on her stall counter, over online games and psp. haha. it was fun, though.

was then off to the annual CF Sayang Camp/BBQ night. which was good. (food). and Covenant Players featured too.

Enough abt my day. ok now im feeling a bit pei already. Im just blatantly confused; more like lost actually. It sucks when an interpretation goes awry and the individual on the recieveng end of it sees it in a different shade of light. Things get really messy. When you actually mean something else but something entirely different sets the impression. I hate to cause friction and more so; why would i want hurt the mutual respect/friendship between us?

argh damn pei now.

laters.

Dribble Like Ronaldo.

2006-12-06T22:40:00.000+08:00

Can you? do you? I can. I do. lol jk.

Today's theme track: Beautiful Goal by Paul Oakenfold.

Same Difference.

2006-12-06T12:04:00.000+08:00

This thing here has been occupying most, if not all, of my time. the geek i've become.

short post, this. new salon, same haircut. Chezz Technique; apparently specialises in bridal hairstyling bu they couldnt lay down the chops for my hairdo. sides weren't thinned proportionately, the back wasnt layered exactly as it should be, the middle-front, bangs and fringe were ok, though. i reckon they're not japan-trained hairstylists. but its not that bad, really.

My drummer's new abso-idunnowhattocallthis hairdo. mullet-cropped at the sides and back, super long extensions down the middle; dreadlocked. Re-pulse's own dreadlocked travis barker. lol.

FishBiscuitsWhichTasteLikeBabyFoodButRocks.

2006-11-06T22:50:00.000+08:00

look to the right of this page; what do you see? yes a cbox! no biggie really. i was actually prompted by Jerr and Sue Vern to get one and so here it is, a cbox.

anyways, ive not posted an entry in almost a month now. admittedly, im not an ultra-avid blogger so you'd only see a post go up every once in a while. im working on that though. will try to post entries more often.

besides that, woke up at noon today after falling asleep psp-ing. had breakfast; lunch rather straightaway. was really looking forward to have a quite and tranquil meal all by myself but any hopes of it were vehemently dashed when my little sister came along and started yapping non-stop. goodness me.. she can drive you up the wall..

after that was off to church for youth but instead went to the kidsCAT musical pres. at the main sanctuary which was abso-adorable and cute!

but tim, ken, james and me found out later after the musical that jamming was called off. and we werent informed beforehand. so there i was, stuck at church cos my sister had something else going on. *fkingbrilliant*

dinner.psp.and currently typing away.

theme song: Sewn; by The Feeling.

laters.

"give me song and i'll sing it like i mean it.
give me the words and i'll say them like i mean it
you've got my heart in a headlock
you've stopped the blood made my head soft
and God knows, you've got me sewn"

What's There To Rush?

2006-11-05T16:15:00.000+08:00

"kel, do you actually go clubbing back in kl?"
"nope. i don't do clubbing. yet. besides, im only 15.
"but how can i go by if im back at kl? means i cant' go clubbing?"
"relax. you're only 15. there's no need to rush into stuff like clubbing and all."
"but that's what we all do back here at aussieland."
"right. but its a diff story back here. it's malaysia for you. plus, why rush into it? you'd have a lifetime to do those stuff once you've come of age. you'll even get fed up of it."

nicole, a primary school friend who'd migrated to aussieland abt 5 years ago and i s coming back asked me the above.

why rush into things like drinking, smoking, bong, pills, clubbing and the likes of it? well never consider stuff like drugs and all of cos. well, i do admit im a sucker for alco(still very much controllable unlike *coughs*michael*coughs*) but why rush into it? we've (ppl my age or close) got a lifetime to actually go into all these once we've come of age.

"you'd get bored and very sick of it one day"- the wise words of joyce the fairy.

laters.

Farktarded.

2006-11-03T23:50:00.000+08:00

If there's one thing i hate, it's having someone deliberately wake me up before 8 for utterly stupid reasons. ive had it twice in the past week and once this morning. youngest sister had to wake me up just to ask "where's the remote?". but that couldn't beat this morning.

mum had me up at 7.40 this morning. what for? offer "help" at youngest sister's school carnival. as if that wasnt stupid enough, i was rushed through my daily morning routine of spending some time in the bathroom. that's another one of my pet hates.

guess what i had to do though at the carnival. i had to carry 20-if-not-more-or-so boxes of swiss rolls and legend of the sea biscuits. tiuloh. great. fine. that was cool. until i learned that i had to do it all by myself. i had to shift it from 2 storeys up to the ground floor. blugger.

after i was done; which left me mildly soaked, i strolled around. oh, did i mention, i spent one year of my primary school life in that school, SRJK(C) Puay Chai? but it was a bitter experience though. i'd later move out from that school to a more diverse(it seemed so then), thankfully. and i still find that school somewhat.. unpleasant.

so i'm home now. dutifully blogging away; my first in 2 weeks. and in that short span of time, i've been good. well, i think i was anyway. just that my vocab has been peppered with mild profanities.

sighs. laters.

Ergh.

2006-11-01T22:40:00.000+08:00

ive learned a valuable lesson in grooming- when shaving, never pass the foam; even when in a major rush. and shaving at night is a taboo. or so they say.

well, know why? i frigging cut my upper lip while doing so. why? because i skipped the foam. why? cos they were only 2 days-old stubbles and i only wanted to look neat. but i had to pass the foam. and its not like ive the hairiest of facial hairs. so i usually dont use foam. bugger. it bled non stop, heck.

today was all abt work man. learned the finer points of money making. or something like that. haha. counter register, this and that and this... heck of an exhausting day i tell you. and im working against my wishes. my muum doesn't wanna see me bumming around so im off at my uncle's shop. lotsa things too say but too darn exhausted. laters.

bloody+bugger= blugger x)

Happy Birthday, Sandra!

2006-10-30T17:12:00.000+08:00

<-------See this girl? she's officially 6 today! wait, i mean 14. haha. Happy birthday Sandra!!! I deliberately put this pic of her cos; first of all; its sooo cute! and secondly, i think she'd kill me or something if i put other pics of her cos she reckons i dont have nice pics of her. oh well. haha.

guess what; i actually worked today! first time in two years. at my ncle's shop anyway. dead exhausted now. laters.

Amateur Alcos

2006-10-23T09:54:00.000+08:00

Loook at those kids!! haha. can you spot me; no prizes for guessing though. i'm in pink. anyways thats was taken during the melaka trip exactly a week ago. i shall blog abt that trip. it was crazy, to say the least. there were lotsa dumb ass things going on but no i'm not gonna list them down.

a'famosa. if you've never been there, keep it that way. it's so frigging run-down. im not trying to degrade the place but frankly, it stinks (literrally too). poor animals look so out of place and restless. the condos which we stayed in weren't actually that bad but they could do with a little more upkeeping and refurbishment. not to mention bird poo everywhere in the drying/air-well area.

Boozing was rampant, albeit only on the first night; we got busted. haha. espesh kah ken whose face is ever so red; what more with a mere few sips of carlsberg he was flushingly red; absolutely like a huge tomato. poor you.

then i fell horribly sick the second day. no; it wasn't the alco. i think it was 'wind' in my tummy. but nonetheless it sucked man. drained all the energy and zest outta me. and pn. teh took care of me like a mother! no kidding. oh, she even labelled me hot! and macho. lol. haha.

and kai ming's taste of music rocks! i borrowed his ipod while in the condo while everybody else were running around, swimming, etc. and i was surprised to find his genre tastes are like that of mine of micahel and me. and there were loads of mimi songs. that's mariah carey for you.

we suck. why cant we just stay put? haha. iloveyou =)

Looking For..?

2006-10-13T18:28:00.000+08:00

run. run. keep on running. and it hit me; "what the *%&# are you doing?". i frigging ran out of school again. i kinda promised myself not to do it again but heck, ive done it again. the question is not why ive done but rather; what's wrong with me? what've i been thinking? i could very well et expelled!! argh.

i was feeling funny. wait, horrible, more like. i was hungry, sleepy, drowsy, frustrated, depressed, angry and tired all at the same time. and seemingly i cant think staight. i was and am flustered.

i woke up this morning in tears. i cant overcome the pain. still. had a dream which was too real to be true. it was actually sweet. but reality hit really hard when dawn approached and i was left to succumb to tears..

i called. iwanted to talk. the words wouldnt flow. im missing you.

More Like..?

2006-10-12T22:42:00.000+08:00

i had the worst possible start to the morning today. i dont wanna recall what happened but lets just say i woke up horribly late and ended up having to walk to school; with a few shits happening in between. was late for school too. brilliant.

anyways, we spent the whole day listening to a premarital sex abstinence talk- 'no apologies'. very interesting. it was very open and they had an anything goes policy. and they had to touch a topic which made my eyes well up. love. heck. haha.
and heck. 2 girls were hitting on me today. one was the facillitator and the other was some innkie's friend. alas; i only still have eyes for ......

rest of the day was spent playing futsal, wining eleven-ing, and cooking. seriously.

Twinkle Toes

2006-10-11T23:00:00.000+08:00

five-a-side soccer inter class tourney today. but heck, half the team went for that college trip! so my team obviously had to loan players. there were only 4 of us. we 'loaned' dinesh. heck, he was our trump card! we beat this other team 4-0; with dinesh scoring all 4 of 'em! im proud to say i made a few assists and opportunistic passes. and also a few neat shimmys here and there. like the perfectly weighted chip i made for kai ming only for him to miss it. haha, dont worry ming, you're still a very good footballer.

i'd have to admit this' the 2nd time ive done it in a year; i sneaked outta school during recess. yea i know in my sweaty PE tee. and guess where i went? yes, i went to a cyber cafe, folks. surprise eh? its so not me to step into a one but heck, i did. played for abt 2 hrs then went back to school for a red crescent meeting and then aaron and me shot back to the cafe for more rounds of fifa, counter strike and dota. and heck, ive learned how to play dota! haha this will be my last time though. im not intending of stepping into one again.

im going out of my mind.

Fishcakes Ahoy

2006-10-10T22:15:00.000+08:00

Thai fishcakes are the bomb. i abso love them man. note that i said 'thai fishcakes'. had it at klcc today.

today started with my dad banging my door down literally and screaming "dont you have tuition?" i shot up, blur, dizzy and dazed and thought for a while. after like 30 seconds or so with my dad staring at me, i replied "ive never had tuition on tuesday mornings." "right then. sorry", came the reply.

noon time, dad and me went shopping. saw cargo pants from 3point6 and instantly swooped for it. cost me a cool 189 bucks. then lunch. went thai today. then went looking for loafers but they were ugly so went to look at sneakers but they were equally as urgh. after a few tops, i told dad i needed a new cologne. so off we went in search of man scents. givenchy's for old uncles, armani doesnt smell so "in-between" anymore. so i settled for red delicious, dkny. yeap buhbyee fcuk and armani, they're making way for dkny. and my dad's weird; he only wears socks from zara and marks & spencers.

even shopping cant get you off my mind.

Pfft..

2006-10-09T04:39:00.000+08:00

everything's going from bad to worse for me.. im not one who divulges in self-pity but quite frankly, i feel like CRAP. what's wrong with me? i cried first thing when i woke up today, then in the shower, then couple'o times during church service, during lunch, at home, while playing soccer (im weird, i know), at dinner, and then in the shower again. argh.. its a really big blow to me and ive been literally hit so hard im barely able to pick myself up again.. sighs..i dont know..

What Hurts The Most

2006-10-08T16:33:00.000+08:00

its been exactly 24 hours since.. and my tears cant seem to stop flowing.. heck, honestly ive never cried so much in the whole 15 years of my lifetime.. and its the first time ive felt so much hurt and pain.. im broken..crushed.. and tears are still flowng down my dimples which you used to pinch.. but i respect your decision and am not one nor isit in my abillities to alter what you've decided on. but ive promised you that i'd wait for you and not date anyone till you're ready. and i want you to know.. that i still love you.. more than words can describe and more than you'd ever know..