The Uptown Life

Upgraded to Business Class

2010-09-20T13:58:00.002+08:00

Post-Macau trip was a fruitful one, so I decided to make a permanent move to theuptownlife.com which is hard to do, I'm very sentimental, still am towards old stuff. I left theuptownlife.com one year after purchasing it, and since new comes when the old goes, and so, with great pleasure, I present you to www.theuptownlife.com.

you think i'm pretty without any makeup on

2010-08-25T17:40:00.002+08:00

How many of you will say, "Yes, me too!" to the below?

No. 1 You dislike something like a trend to the point you have to pay attention and then you decided it's not to bad, and it's a click on the "like" button.

Katy Perry (she's edgy and lives in solidarity, lives in a "Perry World" like "Paris' World" or "Gaga World" and that's hot! ;) Let's leave the "brains" out)

No. 2 You listen to every song (overplaying it) of a particular singer or genre and try to have a para social relationship with the meaning between the lyrics. Even though it doesn't apply to you. :s

John Mayer aka Mayerism (from quoting lyrics to even defend his serial dating behaviors), Paramore's song: The Only Exception. No my parents did not break up, but the lyrics just move your heart and it makes a really good proposal song by the way and you're lucky if you can get Paramore to serenade while you bend down on one knee and ask for her hand in marriage ;click)

No. 3 You're young or you still think you are when you start receiving wedding invitations from your high school friends, or recently learn that your ex school mate is married with kids, or is in a stable relationship, and probably heading down the aisle in the near future. Not just marriage, but in career, and studies. You reflect on your life so far, and you think, "Is it just them, or am I not progressing?" Basically you feel like you're Peter Pan.

I'm not bothered with the fact everyone is jumping into "I love you-Do you love me" or "I do" wagon. Just the fact that, life does moves on, and pretty quickly too. Life is brief like a candle, it's never short, just ONE chance of making the best out of it, and I feel time is like the breeze. Maybe a little too quick.

Karl Lagerfeld says, "I can have remorse, but no regrets" Amen to that.

she's perfect, so flawless, i'm not impressed

2010-08-19T21:58:00.003+08:00

The main subject for today is going to be the search for imperfection;which is a synonym for happiness which is also widely misrepresent with perfection. Tonight, I stand united with those in agreement of Mayerism, the song "Comfortable" as suggested in the title plays an crucial role in my hypothesis in this post.

We strive for everything perfect. Must be without any flaw. "Practice makes perfect" "Perfect score" "Picture-Perfect" "Perfect timing" are some examples of the word "Perfect" is being used in our daily lives. Have we not learned that perfection has brought us nothing but misery which is the total opposite of happiness that we think perfection may bring us to?

And that is why I believe that imperfections are what brings individuals together that they'll complement each other and make up for what they lack in, and likewise. Otherwise, the line "You complete me" would be totally irrelevant. Because of imperfections, also, we learn alot about acceptance and forgiveness. If one has not yet achieved the ultimate happiness and contentment, at least they will have a peace of mind. Ohmmm....

Forgotten smile

2010-06-25T17:14:00.004+08:00

While I have enjoyed and admired a fair share of other people's sweet smiles, maybe because I have forgotten my own. An old picture that I dug out and I was once again captivated by this carefree young thing with the biggest smile ever. I know that smile.

And let me have this moment now, where I admire no one but the smile that I've always had.

my dad and sex and the city 2

2010-06-22T18:05:00.003+08:00

Okay, I think my dad just won the coolest-dad-in-town, hands down.

On father's day, I bribed him to a good Japanese dinner and got him to watch SATC 2 with me at KLCC. No kidding. Well, he was pretty easy going, I was either going for A Team or Toy Story 3 or SATC 2, and fashion won this time.

So, it was a good choice. Although it was not movie material, it was definitely a home entertainment. Re-watch and re-watch and re-watch.

Okay, I guess this post is dedicated to my dad. You're the best!

okay. haha. this is a photo blog. :x

Life won't be complete till you have the best chocolate souffle

2010-06-07T01:21:00.004+08:00

Again, I made a short business trip to June. I'll post the leisure activities I did; the touristy post about fun stuff: food, new attractions, food and lots of food.

Ala Carte Buffet at Zhou's Kitchen. Yes, eat all you can, and they serve you. Neat concept, and the food is really fresh and plentiful too. [Chilli crab; the person in our group's favorite dish of all time]

[imagine a whole lot of food pictures. Totally unnecessary because this is not a food blog]

Why; of course I had to go there after the rave reviews on one of the food blog I found.
My search for good chocolate; one may never understand.

Banana Split Waffle.

and the best chocolate souffle ever. It was order alongside Banana Split, Chocolate Chip Cookie but we finished it in 1 minute, not joking. I had 2-3 bites.

Cute glassware which says Drink me! I had Frozen Eighties Chocolate; yes, chocolate again.

Everything chocolate! Max Brenner, please come to Malaysia.

Went to Simlin Square @ Bugis. Was amused by the lightings. What a colorful life. It may spark an interesting one-shot story. For now, one thousand words is represented by this photo.

Went to Marina Sands, and this is the new Casino. I'm amused (easily) by Singaporeans/Foreigners lane, just because. By the way it's free entrance for foreigners, but you have to pay $100 levy if you're a Singaporean/PR.

Wafer chocolate ice cream. Pure awesomeness at $1.
Told you I never get sick of chocolate.

here's to the next level in life

2010-06-01T20:19:00.002+08:00

young and successful; not talking about the twin towers.
traders' hotel is pretty snazzy tho'

french restaurant at raja chulan
(amuses me that I don't even know the name and I had dinner there)
je ne comprenpa!

lovely wine for the evening. 2nd bottle for free because of croach.
I'm not even joking.

My future wine cellar.
Well, it's going to be more awesome than what you see now.

Happy picture with new camera!

apparently it's a long queue and we took some pictures

2010-06-01T19:44:00.002+08:00

going to take forever

we passed our queue number to friendly looking people on the way out.
californians? indonesian on the right. definitely.

<3 lady from Indonesia. Lost 36 kilos so far! Keep it up!

Architecture. the way i like it.
not cold, and emotionless. just classy.

lady in black with brown bag, you're awesome.

i typed love, and it showed up

2010-06-01T19:12:00.003+08:00

Okay, it has been ages... (guilty) since I have posted. Now that I have some pictures with my new camera (haha, yes!) I feel this blog is once again revived (I think). Most people know this blog by its photos, when it doesn't, I feel really bad, of course that would be whole topic on its own.

I got myself an Olympus. Well, you can say I "drowned" my digital camera and it died. And I betrayed my dslr for this. Cheeserland and Chingy has pimped the same model, so I'll spare myself the introduction.

No this is not Thailand.
You know when they shot the movie "Anna and the King" set that was built at Clearwater Sanctuary, and now abandoned and no visitors allowed (structure isn't as stable as it is couple years back)

Visitor.

We had new Indonesian friends on our way to Singapore, and they have cute buttons too!

Value Hotel Nice. Yes, the room is as big as the picture, no joke.
And Twilight was playing. Team Jacob, por favor.

At the bus stop! Satc 2!
Prolly going to watch it in Singapore. Yes, I'm going again this Thursday.

moments money cannot buy

2010-04-03T12:42:00.006+08:00

Strangers, we're not.

Bonded over homemade capati and egg fillings.

Mrs Wariyam, retired school teacher of Raja Perempuan Ipoh, 65 years old.
65 years old, usually drives wherever she goes.
Has a planned trip to Bangkok with her mother.

It was nearly a Susan Boyle moment for me. It made my 2 1/2 hours train trip fun.

Never knew Melaka's Nyonya Cendol was this good. No more food court cendol for me.

As we were waiting for our chicken rice ball, we kept ourselves amused with this toy chicken that makes this really odd crow-like sound. Those sounds that you don't want to hear in the middle of the night kind of sound. [pic] my dad by the way.

Oh my, Shania Twain

2010-03-17T00:00:00.002+08:00

She is totally adorable on AI as a guest judge for the Chicago audition. And she and I share the same thing for similar "embodiment". Jokes aside, this woman is really something. I remember re-watching her Ka-Ching music video on the tele again and again and again and I remembered being so enthralled by her.

I miss this kind of pure talent; raw and nothing else. Just the movement on stage, unbelievable voice, charisma and interaction, the eyes.

Ladies and gentlemen, Shania Twain. You're Still the One. :)

[So you're Brad Pitt] that don't impress me much.

Oh totally go crazy- forget I'm a Lady

We spend the money that we don't possess

hello 400d.

2010-03-11T14:47:00.003+08:00

due to the demise of my digital camera, i recently blew the dust off my beloved. i've missed you. haha. it's not dusty, just that it has been a long time.

1st floor view.

funny how many satellite dishes are there while i don't even have a television in my home. nor do i need the distraction.

hello to my old buddy and my new short hair do, which i <3.

it's rather much like <3, started with hate and now I love it.
isn't that profound? ;)

if you lost your way, this may be a good film for you

2010-03-08T11:48:00.005+08:00

and for people who is looking for an alternative direction in living your life. I must say I was really up for the What's in your backpack philosophy until I felt disappointed with Clooney's character change of mind at the end.

The feeling was like how you admire a public figure or someone's image from the outside until you know that they're human. Timely example: Tiger Woods.

Up in the Air tells you there's no perfection in life even if you're looking as good as George Clooney in his 40s. Or as bright-eyed graduated-top-of-the-class, dynamic like Natalie (Anna Kendrick) or as a seemingly strong, gorgeous, middle age woman like Alex (Farmiga).

Perfection is different at every age or person. Perfection is acceptance of human flaws.

One thing you do really learn is to travel light and always line up behind Asian businessmen.

I enjoyed journey-ing with Clooney's character, Ryan Bingham. He was a cold and insensitive character with all the wrong reasons for being detached from the world. He surrounds himself with a lot people but always not available.

He's the character you will envy at first because you have all this relationships, work, money, debt issues and you see a guy with a career, glamor perks with American Airlines, a fast paced life, no rental to worry about, no wife no kids; well, no responsibility.

Then you see the subtle loneliness but a lot of justifications or self-talk was needed to keep him "sane" until two characters came into his life; Natalie(Kendrick) and Alex (Farmiga).

And then came his sister's wedding, and he found himself in a whirlwind marriage where he was given a reality check about what life is all about? For a man that does not believe in attachment like marriage, it was the beginning of his turning point.

You see more marriages failing, more people losing their jobs than getting a bonus, and then you hear people telling you that is life because you are meant to go through it, all; study, get good grades, work, have a family, till 65, retired, and die. And then you start wondering, is it worth it? Is this life? Is this how it's supposed to be?

Up in the Air is a movie that covers all aspects of life. It's timely, funny, dramatic, reality with the exception of really good looking actors in it. It talks about success; and success is going through failure to failure without losing the enthusiasm.

Malaysia, only you

2010-03-04T20:45:00.003+08:00

You know you've read one of those 50 things you learn in a Korean drama etc etc. I think by now, we should have 50 things you learn in Malaysia or from Malaysians.

Here's to name a few:-

When you try to give a better direction to the taxi driver because you're obviously want to reach your destination on time, he suggest the normal way by giving an excuse it will be okay. At the turning point, he turns to you with a *evil* smug and say "Oh, maybe it won't be the same when it's raining". At that point it is raining cats and dogs.

Data Entry seems to be the "only" way to make extra income. Why? #earnwhatyou'reworth

Forget Chivalry. Courtesy is dead. That's the least people can do. Thank you? Received with thanks? Noted? Hello?

Taking a chance. Betting on the fact that your life is longer than a cat's. For instance, rushing through the traffic light even when it's turning red. Green=Go, Yellow=Go faster, and Red=Take a chance.

Gratitude is also dead. There may be political issues going on like Royal London Circus, the once upon a time where you get rebate coupons to go as a student (how exciting it twas!), it may be a bad timing at the moment, but the more complaints, the less smiling how-are-you? , the i'm-having-a-bad-day or F off on your forehead, it's not going to get better. Really.

What exactly Malaysians need is:

1) More Personal Development

Stash those horror, mystique, voodoo, gossip magazines away and start picking a book, or an audio or watch a movie that inspire you.

2) to Feel better.

Gratitude list. Hello? Law of Attraction, The Secret? What you focus more, will become bigger. So more #Ithankyoufor, the more positivity you're going to attract. Geddit?

3) Solidarity

Kinship and shared social values. Taking up responsibilities as a unit, community of feelings and purpose.

4) Be more of a decision maker.

Either you make your own choice, or someone else will dictate yours (read:your life). If you're not happy, then don't stay that way. We are people, we can change. If you don't like your shape, change. If you don't like your hair, make an appointment at your fav saloon. If you don't like your job, do something you like. The only reason why we suffer so much is that we give up. Dreams and Aspirations and Passion is what make of us, our core right down to our 100 trillion cells, which can think. How else a person with a terminal illness can recover? Can you imagine how dynamic our body is? 60% is in the mind, the thinking, decision.

We can do better. Definitely.

Taken with Mr. Koon Yew Yin @ Perak Academy's Talk Series: The Conquest of Happiness

"If you're doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results, that's insanity"

two major subjects

2010-03-03T00:04:00.005+08:00

that you need to know and master. Everything we do revolves around these two things. It's true when they say, "You can run but you cannot hide" *adds the cliche evil laugh*

of life and people.

"Sharpen your interest in two major subjects: life and people. You will only gather information from a source if you are interested in it." —Jim Rohn

pic by shahril @ gentleman who taught me my first salsa steps

for instance, maybe take up a new hobby: salsa anyone? ;)

It's not the "How", it's the "Why"

2010-02-02T23:58:00.002+08:00

I stepped into the business quadrant exactly a year ago and constantly finding there's so much to learn because when you learn so much, you just realize that there's so much more that you do not know.

The only thing lacking with a lot of people is that they focus on the "how" hence the thinking-too-much syndrome and not "why" the reason they're doing for in the first place.

Many people worry about the ending, when they should be starting. If the Wright brothers worried about landing, they wouldn't think of flying and we wouldn't have airplanes today.

For starters, I would recommend this, Vision Board. There are many things I've achieved with the Vision Board. I have a little scrap book that I pasted pictures on. You wouldn't believe how many things I've achieved or experienced because of it. If you didn't know me, you would just pass me off as lucky. But little did anybody know, my little success comes a lot from my strong belief on the Vision Board.

There are four types of believers:

I want to believe...
I like to believe...
I hope to believe...

and

I believe...

Which one do you want to be? Success begins with a choice to believe.

Change begins with choice

2010-02-01T16:21:00.004+08:00

Your choice. Like success or knowledge which only comes to those who seek.

Funny, how the other day I was with my dad and he asked me a rather amusing question. "How do you know so many things?" Without thinking, I answered, "Knowledge didn't fall from the sky for me, I seek it, and that's how I learn".

I don't understand a lot of things, I only seek.

and why do people change? you might wonder. Like how we garner knowledge, we make a choice. Most people are too scared, even I get the anxiety to change but it's the only permanent thing. Like how I saw a quote posted by my friend, Jamie who posted on Facebook, "What's the biggest room?" "Room for improvement!" Aye to that!

I get agitated when I don't agree with other people's thinking simply because I have different values and principles. So, morale of the story is, "Don't get angry when someone has a different perspective, because not everybody adopts the same values or principles as you"

Take the simple approach, and stop analyzing too much. You would age more gracefully, that's for sure.

Tell me and I forget

2010-01-28T13:15:00.003+08:00

Show me and I remember. Involve me and I understand.

when one wonders what they'll be...

2010-01-21T00:17:00.003+08:00

My dad asked me, "Do you think you have what it takes to be successful?" Funny. Silence.

I pondered and thought over it.

Maybe I didn't sound as confident or look the part, but my answer would be "I think I do" "Why not me?" If anyone has passion, determination, willingness to learn, burning desire to change, I cannot see why anyone cannot be successful.

Timing will only be crucial if all the above are present.
Opportunity will knock once or twice to see if one answers it.

2010. My year. Could be yours too. Shall we tango?

minus ten. 355 to go.

2010-01-10T21:50:00.002+08:00

#Tenth day of the twenty ten.
#Amazing things are slowly unfolding. *Do the We-are-family dance*
#It's proven. It's powerful. Now is the time! Definitely, yes, no maybe(s).
#Choose a side; which side do you want to be at? 10 Qs for Kiyosaki on Time.
#2010, will it be your year? Decide now.

in times like these

2010-01-08T16:48:00.004+08:00

In times like these, I can't help but feel like a hypocrite because of the peace we promoted to our international friends how we're able to stay together despite our cultural and religion differences.

Kerana nila setitik, rosak susu sebelanga.

But nevertheless, everybody is trying their best to put up a brave front whether it's truly genuine or not. That's another story. Let's focus on what's important; fighting for justice, united when everybody looks down on us.

That goes with the saying, "What does not kill us, only makes us stronger."

***

How long does it take?

2010-01-07T22:29:00.006+08:00

For pain to go away
For you to be rich
For you to be great at playing the guitar
For you to get the girl of your dreams?

Well, I've finally understood the real meaning behind the saying, "Time does not heal". Yes, you have to wait, yes, time is an essence. But time has nothing to do with your achievements. Whether you're finally going to get over the breakup, or you made your first million, or you are now a proud owner of the Ferrari that you always dreamed of, time has nothing to do with it.

What is it then?

The missing puzzle.

You.

Yes, you.

When you finally decide that enough is enough, then things starts to change. This is how you should lead your life in 2010. Decide now. No matter what challenges you will face, it'll be nothing if you don't let it get in your way for too long.

2010 is going to be

2010-01-04T13:01:00.007+08:00

#1 Sans:

Swifty's songs guitar sessions till I get my hands on Big Baby Taylor.
Fb's time-wasting-won't-bring-me-any-good apps, namely, Farmville, Cafe World etc.
New paperback books till I get a Kindle 2 ( No more space till I get my own library room)

#2 and would be life changing because I'm turning 22.
It's my time to reach great heights.

#3 Lots of adventure and traveling. and meeting new people.

#4 About Breathing Life into people

#5 Be who I want to be.

# well, simply the best! =)

The end of another year, not the end of the world

2009-12-31T12:12:00.002+08:00

The title would be more suited for 2012, I think... Have you heard of the saying, "Party like there's no tomorrow?" Exactly, I understand birthdays, maybe, you can only celebrate 16 once, but then again, I don't really believing in the commercial way of celebrating a special occasion. For me, party and celebration is where you feel most at home, with your family and loved ones.

Let's not indulge in my usual opinionated post, and let's talk about this new year. 2009 may be the best year, or may be not, or somewhat bittersweet; let's take in the goodness, and let's be thankful. for the bitter experiences that helped you to grow, and happy moments as dessert, like cherry on top of a cake.

Happy New Year everybody.

I'm looking for corny in my life

2009-12-29T22:04:00.004+08:00

Let me sum up this year in a blog post. Not three words because I'm long winded that way.

2009 has truly been an emotion roller coaster ride for me. I embarked in a new adventure, it's anything but monotonous. There was a lot of waiting, patience and uncertainty; in a bittersweet tone.

There was no drastic change in the the most talked about (esp during reunions) in a couple of departments; the hairstyle and relationship. While Jennifer Aniston will always take the crown for her "Rachel" hair, still looking great at 40 and on-off-on-now off relationship with John Mayer who has a great new album. He may not have a great image as a partner but boy, he still is doing great in the music department, no doubt.

My hair is Chestnut (Red) this season, and Beyonce's "Single Ladies" is still my ringtone, so if you like it, why don't you put a ring on it? Yes, she's still brilliant, Kanye doesn't need to blow her trumpet, no thank you, because Taylor Swift is awesome. Great year for her, don't ya think?

2009 may be anything but definitely not bad at all. It could be worse. Britney made her comeback, easily with one. two. three. It's a circus alright in politics, sports and entertainment. Speaking of sports, Tiger might have to really tone down, let's just say he dabbled into a sport where people is usually discreet about.

The saddest news after recession and lay offs has definitely got to be deaths. From Michael Jackson to Brittany Murphy, shocking but we move on. And our dear late Jim Rohn, had the privilege to hear him through a live conference, too bad it was to late to meet him in real life. But the thing is, all these deaths are mourned because they touched so many lives; that's what it has to be.

It doesn't matter whether life has been good or bad; have you touched someone's life while you still eat and breathe? Life can easily be snatched in a sec, a lightning can strike you this instance, but has life been worth it, so far?

Time passes us so quickly; in this brief life, why not make it worth living. My new year's resolution is to breathe lives into others. How about you? Are you finally going to make a change?

I've learned this year that there's no time to be cynical, cautious, a control freak, suspicious, afraid and cursing why this is happening, but instead, you will see to making the time to exercise 20 mins a day, have meaningful friendships, family bonding, good thoughts about others.

What say you?

The soil says "Don't bring me your need, bring me your seed"

2009-12-23T13:56:00.004+08:00

I went to my garden this morning and found that the sunflower seeds that I sowed is growing.

I had an appointment today and was stood up because I didn't sow enough. Nature has once again taught me a lesson. The seasons of life; spring, summer, fall and winter. Sow enough, and you will harvest.

The soil says "Don't bring me your need. Bring me your seed"

Harvest does not come to those who wish, harvest comes to those who sow and put action into what they desire. The winter is cold and dreadful, but Spring will soon be there. The night is dark, but the day will come after. The storm shall struck but the calm skies will follow.

Use the miracles of the sunshine, rain and soil, and continue to sow(action) in the summer, and then when summer comes, you will harvest.

Today, I'm thankful for a wonderful lesson from the Mother Nature and our dear late Jim Rohn.

Merry Christmas in advance and have a great year end! :)

He was the best killer until he met her, an assassin too

2009-12-21T14:20:00.002+08:00

Can we be perceived as weak when we strip the layers and layers of our already fragile heart? Are we wrong if we put in too much of effort just because it's a game and we're supposed to play to win? Is it true that we can only be all or nothing at all?

Well, these thoughts are not bothering me at all. A reflection of heart; if it's close enough, then I would have figured it out by then. I guess what's best in life (most, if not all) is that you jump, then fall, then learn how to deal with it.

This was told by a wise man, "It's not the problem, it's how you handle it, is really the issue.

For now, I have more things to focus on. This month. Let's make it.

20 going on 21.

2009-12-15T22:44:00.005+08:00

I'm not really too excited about this one. It's just like Christmas, or New Year and should be celebrated that way, once a year. There shouldn't be any "commercial tag" on it. The golden key, the big cash reward, hotel celebration, oh no, embarrassing huge birthday cake in the shape of "21". I'm not even joking. Really, it could've been "MTV's Sweet Sixteen" style, same tackiness and drama but maybe less bling.

I don't think I grew up in a typical Asian (Chinese) family, although I remembered my mum saying something about hand-me-down golden key when I asked for jewelery for my 21st a couple of years ago when I saw my cousins getting a new one from their grandmother. That's just as Asian as we can get.

What do I wish for this birthday?

It's ironic because we all used to get so excited about growing up to be adults but the like the saying goes, "the grass is ALWAYS greener on the other side". When you finally get here, it's a different perspective all together.

I'm at this major point in my life. Make it or break it kind of situation. I chose a different path and unlike the other decisions I've made, this one takes the Oscar's Breakthrough Role Award.

It's rather tricky because when you try to take the road less traveled, you're unlikely to be 100% supported. There will be mockers, believers, the perplexed etc etc. It's like when Cameron Diaz decided to take a challenging role in Sister's Keepers, some applauded her, some mocked and said she's just trying to score an award.

So here am I, well, not exactly like Cameron Diaz, but you do get the drift.

Liyana asked me on Twitter today, what I wanted this year for my big day. If you asked me a couple of years ago, I would have wanted so many [material] things. The list is never ending but it has dawned upon me that what I really wanted in this lifetime is to be happy with what I have now at the same time in pursuit for better things.

"Happy" cannot be measured but I know I'm getting there if I don't give up. As long as I do the things that fills me with abundance of joy, you will just keep going, right? At this point of my life, I'm having flashbacks of the incidences; the characters I meet, loved ones that have left, moments of motivation and inspirations, friendships, experiences, worldly opportunities.

I thank each and everyone and everything that has come my way. Though may not be sweet, but it has made me to be who I am today, tomorrow, and in the future.

Now, I'm looking forward to Sunday. =)

Best Wedding Speech

2009-12-06T23:54:00.003+08:00

I attended a wedding on Saturday night and this was the father's speech to the newly weds:

You have taken 7 years of courtship. I hope you see through each other to know whether you're able to work the marriage. The thing is, you need to open your eyes before marriage and learn how to close them afterwards. The problem with a lot of people is that they close their eyes before marriage and open them afterwards. That's a little too late.

*Standing ovation*

Simple, right to the point and warning for singles.

songs you listen at 3:30am

2009-12-04T04:06:00.000+08:00

which play perfect harmony to the rhythm of the rain.

Meant to be by Melissa Polinar Click.
Catch me by Demi Lovato Click.
Butterfly Fly Away by Miley Cyrus Click.
Half of my heart by John Mayer Cover by Kina Grannis

and a couple from Taylor Swift

Fifteen Click.
You belong with me. Cover by Leah Goins
Crazier Click.

Make Me by Kina Grannis Click
Valentine by Kina Grannis Click
Back to Us by Kina Grannis Click

and these two songs:

Love Song For No One by John Mayer. Click.
Just the Girl by Click Five. Click.

and you curl in bed under warm blankets. sweet dreams. xoxox.

I believe

2009-12-03T10:19:00.002+08:00

I believe every person has within themselves inexhaustible reserves of potential they have never even come close to realizing.

I believe each person has far more intelligence than they have ever used.

I believe each person is more creative than he or she has ever imagined.

I believe the greatest achievements of your life lie ahead of you.

I believe the happiest moments of your life are yet to come.

I believe the greatest successes you will ever attain are still waiting for you on the road ahead.

And, I believe through learning and application of what you learn, you can solve any problem, overcome any obstacle and achieve any goal that you can set for yourself.

—Brian Tracy

always looking forward

2009-11-25T12:57:00.003+08:00

In my line of work, you either go move up, or you move down; there's nothing in between. It's not something very hard to do, but you need a lot of discipline and consistency. You need to be a VERY good emotions manager because it affects everything. When you're physically tired, you may still be able to stay strong because you're mentally fit. If you're weak, then it's goodbye to both.

Many people choose to stay mediocre most of their life (I hate to use the word "fail" because I don't think it's fate, it's something they chose). Choice, on the other hand is a good word. If you settle for 2nd best, then you'll be okay with not having anything like "everybody" else. You compare to those who are not any better than you so you won't feel so bad.

That's what they call a crowd mentality. That's 97%.

A clear cut of abuse: the definition of "contentment" and the term "forgetting your roots". They are also the mockers, the one that silently rooting for you to fail.

Funny how they portray the "outcast" in the movies who are usually the minority and later on become the hero at the end. That's 3% for you. Maybe not all, but heard of, "What does not kill you can only make you stronger"?

Life is a constant challenge, you have to do your own filter, basically design the way you want it to be. I think the main issue is that people let "fate" take control; let people decide how you should lead your life, starting from childhood. It's not that your parents are sadists or anything but it was how they probably being led in their life.

Go to school, get good grades, get a degree, get a good job, start a family, have kids, work till you're 65, retire and wait for your time.

When we start "giving up" or follow the crowd; it's where you would never have live your dream. I'm not saying , don't get a job. Yes, job opportunities are good for some because if everybody decides to be their own boss, then well, who's supposed to work?

I'm talking to you. Yes, you. You, who has a dream, maybe a big one. Maybe you think you deserve a better life. I think you do, if you have a dream. You just need to not give up.

Life's a climb, but the view's great.

Questions I always ask myself

2009-11-17T23:55:00.002+08:00

Do you have questions you ask yourself sometimes? I think everybody is their greatest critic. By that, people change, for the better or for worse. Like the blue skies, it's not unique or really important but it needs to be there.

I'm also not sure where I'm heading but I'm talking about questions, reflections, whatever you call it. It's part of the daily things you do subconsciously when you drift away in your dreams and doodling; when you wander off in thoughts- that's what I'm talking about.
My top 5 questions:

#1 Am I a giver or a taker?

Give freely, and be rewarded. Most of the people that say, "I'm not a good receiver" are simply those who are takers. By sacrificing yourself to help someone that you love- in which they can do by themselves are considered as taking.

#2 What kind of person who will deliver this?

If you're a messy person, ask yourself, what kind of person this is?
If you don't like your current self now, best thing is that you can change! Isn't that great?

#3 What is my dream? My purpose in life?

If you don't have a dream, you're working towards someone else's dreams. Please do not try to use your current circumstances as an excuse to not being to be able to achieve yours. It's simply not worth it.

#4 How many Saturdays do I have left?

Let's say we live till 75 years old. You're 20, and you have 55 years to go. We have 52 saturdays a year x 55 which equals 2860 Saturdays. Not much; so what are you going to make sure you enjoy and live to the fullest all the Saturdays of your life?

#5 What would my eulogy be like?

She did most things she wanted to do
She breathed life into others
She was not the most likeable, but she was a true friend
She died without regrets

:)

looking for mr darcy

2009-11-11T10:57:00.002+08:00

Not that I've religiously read "Pride and Prejudice"; the truth is I don't exactly have the ability to comprehend such fine literature, other examples like "To Kill a Mockingbird". Really, I can't even get through the first page. Or any of Tolkien's LOTR (thank God for the films). Now you know. ;)

Yesterday, Mrs Cris and I were texting (yes, we're still high school that way) about the search of our Mr. Darcy, Dr Mcdreamy, Prince Charming (either non existent, not available, married or gay). It's such a dilemma for some, and I'm not having a "40 year old virgin" talk here.

Yes, our parents and grandparents or people 20-50 years back tied the knot in their early years, and so, as we progress, women became more independent and have theme songs like "I don't need a man" or "Single Ladies" and of course, maybe the fact that we outnumber men could be related to that as well.

My idea of a better half is not just for the sake of looking for "someone", get married, have children, live happily ever after. The focus for most is the wedding of the century, the perfect location, dress, honeymoon suite, the champagne. And it usually ends up in a cliche divorce, if you're "smart" enough, you have the pre-nuptials signed. What I'm trying to say is that, marriage these days are like business deals. Even relationships. The boy-likes-girl-vice versa is no longer that simple.

The way people "commit" into relationships is such a sad scenario like there's a limited supply. You compromise your values, your beliefs, change yourself for a person (in not a good way), lower your standards. Just like when you see the "perfect" pair of jeans, and because they sold out the size you wanted, you settled for a pair that doesn't fit you and then usually you regret buying it in the first place.

Your friend's advice like Katy Perry "Hot N Cold", you go into a relationship like you change clothes. Isn't that some "good" advice?

At the end of the day, you should listen to advice like "Butterfly Fly Away" instead.

Caterpillar in the tree
How you wonder who you'll be
Can't go far but you can always dream

Wish you may and wish you might
Don't you worry, hold on tight
I promise there will come a day
Butterfly, fly away

5 years ago, today

2009-10-31T21:48:00.004+08:00

Her actions spells out unconditional love
Her smile eases the pain
Her cooking brings everyone together
Her strength to forgive is divine

5 years ago, today;
Like Shakespeare's Sonnet 18

"So long as men can breathe or eyes can see
So long lives this and gives life to thee"

I miss you; We all miss you,

Your love, and our love.

Ever thine,
Ever yours,
Ever ours.

I used to think...

2009-10-29T22:47:00.004+08:00

There was this confusion because when I moved out from my previous phase of life, it's this part of what we are taught to not "forget our roots" and personal development that says a lot about the power of association and we all know "the birds of the same feathers flock together".

And there I was in the situation where I'm glad I left some things in the past and has since then moved on, there's this guilt or I would refer it more of a confusion really.

I couldn't have said it better than this quote I found some time back, "Don't worry about the people from your past, there is a reason they didn't make it to your future".

The most permanent thing is this world is change. Change of decisions, change of philosophies; it's like changing of clothes, literally.

Just 20 years ago, South Korea literally didn't have any bridges, now they have around 18 of them. The girls on SATC and GG don't repeat their clothes so did my Chemistry teacher back in high school who doesn't wear the same outfit one month at least.

If all these changes could happen, it's the same for human beings and their fickle mindedness. You know when you see a friend that suddenly has a new interest and joins a different clique? I think it's not a real problem because she or he has simply changed his values, or philosophies that may not be the same as yours.

It's normal we feel envious or turn our backs and say, "She used to be nice..." I begin to come to terms that we cannot please everybody.

Not everybody, maybe no one would be happy that you will be somewhere, someone one day. Now I understand why is it so important for you to recognize your own ability and give yourself a pat on the back instead of waiting for someone to say, "Good Job" (although a sincere comment would be really nice).

Well, it's ONE life, our life. If we can sleep like a baby at night, not having evil thoughts or jealousy or hatred towards others and yourself, give yourself a good pat on the shoulders. I would even suggest for you to have your own gratitude list; thanking whatever that comes your way.

You are what you vibrate, you are what you magnify.

Tough like a passion fruit

2009-10-26T17:53:00.004+08:00

There's an interesting history why Passion fruit is named that way. But in the picture above taken of the passion fruit from our garden proves to me that it's really something.

As you can see those little red and black blue spots are insects and worms mark. Life as we know it is full of it and there is always something we can all learn from nature; negative vibes and circumstances are inevitable, yes, we die in the end; like nature, everything competes to grow; who gets more sunshine or rain and good vitamins and survive the insects.

Like the passion fruit, at the end, we get to taste the sweetness of the fruit. And so is life, you've got to sacrifice, work, endure, have passion and determination, persistency even; at the end of the day we reap the harvest, we still die, but what's most important, we have lived the life from the path we have chosen.

People cannot argue with success

2009-10-24T23:19:00.002+08:00

There has been an obvious absence (M.I.A) of photos in this blog, but I have words and thoughts as a consolation prize. I guess not many people read, but here's what I think in words, besides images.

Have you ever been in a conversation where you discuss about other people? Obviously.

Okay, gossip is not a nice term, but occasionally you do talk about things like what's this person doing, how's he making a lot of money, his great and glamorous life after college. Everyone gets the same certificate, but in reality, you get judged by your ability to bring in the dough.

What's the definition of success? To some, how much money is important, to some how many countries you traveled to, or maybe achieving an award or appearing in the newspaper. But you sure know from a very young age, success is important, winning is better than losing, A+ is better than C.

The standard to measure success is subjective but every culture, every race, every nation recognize what success is and likewise. Well, you can see it from the Olympics, and Premier Leagues, who's winning, which countries with more Gold medals than the other. There's no end to it.

What I've come to terms with is that people cannot argue with success. It's not about others. It's not about getting a gold medal and a million dollar cheque. It's about you. Your burning desire to want the best for yourself to the point of obsession maybe, but hey, it's your life; one life.

One life to live. One life to make ALL the mistakes you can make and breakthrough the challenges. We have the same equal opportunity, maybe with different circumstances. Most of the successful people will tell you that they either dropped out of school, from a broken family or poverty, but if you're not all that, I guess we should all be doing better than that.

That leads to a question; Why not you? Why not me?

# Why not me, jumping off the cliff into the ocean in one of the exotic islands in Greece?
# Why not me, having coffee at the sidewalks cafe in Paris?
# Why not me, on a winter night skating at the Rockfeller Center by the big Christmas Tree?
# Why not me, shopping at 5th Avenue?

Pull a stunt like Kris Allen

2009-10-22T23:52:00.002+08:00

I find life interesting when you accomplish something and it's great when you do it without anyone suspecting anything. I pulled off a Kris Allen act a couple of times in my life, and it gives me a kick, not from the praises, but the satisfaction is unbelievably orgasmic, so to speak.

And, don't get me wrong. I'm not talking about ego, it comes, it stays and people try their very best to avoid you. I'm talking about breaking through invisible walls, and knowing you can be the best that you can be; yes, no boundaries.

The advice to me is still ringing in my head, "Underpromise, Overdeliver". There's that, and also one of my mentors that now seems to be a whisper in my head, "Bring one more".

Life's a climb, Miley urges you to keep the faith, keep climbing.

You wonder and live life carelessly, You gotta be somebody, Nickelback croons.

And when you face challenges, Mariah tell you can make it through the rain.

And you know we're all rooting for you to win.

**

Life is like songs; you pick up the good ones to keep you going day by day.

Overcoming learning disability makes you a genius

2009-10-21T14:20:00.004+08:00

Or so many has proven.

Today my dad told me to walk into our shoe closet to take a sniff. Apparently it has a stale scent; my senses was, "What scent?" The truth's out. From the years I have been diagnosed as lactose intolerant (don't mention the countless asthma medication I have been prescribed throughout my growing years), my smell sense doesn't work like a 20/20 vision should which has contributed to my lack of observation and organizing skills.

My nose is as good as telling Clinique Happy or Lancome's So Magic! is a good scent, my own fart isn't, bitter strong coffee is good aroma for the soul, and as a great dust detector.

Well, I finally think the years of frustration, for instance, someone would ask, "What smell is that?" in which I'm thinking in my head, "What smell?" has brought me to ignorance of how beautiful is scent of the earth.

I'm able to smell when it's calm and cool; in the nature,I'm able to smell the rain, the fresh dew from the green leaves, the breeze, the scent of silence.

I guess are excuses are equal. Winston Churchill suffered from stuttering, Alexander Graham Bell, Thomas Edison from Dyslexia as well as brilliant actors like Tom Cruise and Robin Williams. The late Ray Charles was blind, the great Ludwig Van Beethoven was deaf. There were no excuses for them because they conquered their disability and carved their names in history.

God's greatest gift is to let life be; of choices that we make each day.

Jim Rohn says, "Deal in realities, deal in truth. Accept life like it is. Life is unique. Some people call it tragic, but I’d like to think it’s unique".

We do not like be told, we like to weigh the options to see which is the best for us. Sometimes, when we face challenges, we would give up and say, "Why me?" The irony of life.

Well, your weakness might just be what you were ignoring all these years. I'm taking up a challenge to work on it; care a little bit more, do a little bit better than yesterday and do it over and over and over and over again.

Re-Reading: Rick Warren's Purpose Driven Life

Life is like keeping a marriage alive

2009-10-15T23:10:00.006+08:00

You can read minds now, thanks to Twitter and Facebook status updates. You know what are people up to just by going on the internet. The time fly by seconds, and then minutes, the next thing you know, a couple of months, a year, two years, five years.

"There's this new project I'm working on"
"Beautiful sunset in Taipei"
"I hate Mondays"
"I quit smoking"
"Come to our new opening"
"I have a gig, come join"

To think about it, there's a shortage of activities happening in real time. People stay in touch with technology. Well it does for one create topics to talk about; most of the time endless debate. "Oh no, she didn't. Did you hear about Khloe Kardashian's prenup?", "Did you listen to Leighton Meester's latest single?" and something along the lines of "How's life treating you?" and it will usually revolve around updates on relationship, hairstyle change, your job, or a new hobby".

Life is just not a box of chocolates where you do know you'll be getting a chocolate anyways. It's like keeping a marriage alive. Just that you can't possibly divorce yourself.

You know you're going to be the same person, same name, the fact you get extra wrinkles doesn't change who you are, but it's about knowing you can do a little bit better, living each day, getting to know other characters, moving from one chapter to another, and when you're 85, you can look back and say, "What a life!".

There are enough testimonials and stories around to tell that we can too lead and design an extraordinary life.

the story of my life, or so the rest of us will say

2009-10-10T19:09:00.005+08:00

Everybody say "Overpriced Education"

That's not what caught my attention, read: Jack Savoretti. Besides that, here are some comments on the trailer which I found to be hilarious:-

This should tell you something: There is an increasing amount of college grads that can relate to her story to make a hit at the box office. Sad... lordennis01

and further depress their already depressed lives and bank accounts by going to see this movie ThoughtScientist

Hey wow that looks like my life. moondog202001

I'm graduating from college....going through what this movie is about. Well... at least I would have time to watch this movie while I'm looking for a job after graduation quietgirl2009

How appropriate for the recent or soon-to-be college grads who will find it difficult to find a job in this kind of economy/job market. pinkie2893

I totally agree. This movie reminds me of Pirates of the caribean. The part where Leonidas tells efialtes that the black pearl was his, and the titanic came up from underneath them with the ghost crew. This is going to be awesome!!!! krackmonky

Yea we obviously didn't see the same trailer.Unless....one of us was on acid..... 0.O SgtHawkinspxs

Great!!! My wife is probably gonna make me watch this with her. SgtHawkinspxs

haha i entire system of education is a joke, if you do attend grad school...that makes about 17 years of school that you have to work you ass off on so that when your done you wont be find a job, becasue you dont have any experience..its a joke if you ask me. visme321

****

Ain't life grand when they make everything looks so great in a movie regardless if it's a depressing story, the makeup would be perfect, the air just feels magical, and somewhere towards the end, the lead actors get what they want anyway?

****

I'd reckon the movie should start with a catchy tagline like, "The Story of My Life" and show a million people around the world because that's just what's it all about. Who would make a movie that you cannot relate to, think about it.

****

Other than that, there are enough stories and testimonials to proof that you can lead and design your own extraordinary life. Maybe you don't get a knight in shining amour but who can tell you it's impossible?

may this moment last forever

2009-10-02T22:10:00.004+08:00

one for the album.

Wedding Jitters

2009-10-01T16:47:00.003+08:00

Not mine, fortunately. But for us singles, it's never easy because it will always be "When's yours?". And it doesn't matter whether you're 20 or 30 because it's "always" the right thing to ask at a wedding. Apparently, "I'm only 21 years old" doesn't seem to be a good excuse. "So what?" an uncle retorted. Awkward.

*****

Good month, September, Hello October. Bring it on.

****

they tell you to travel light

2009-09-09T00:36:00.004+08:00

But you know it's impossible.

I've always have this problem with bringing really small, just-fit luggage bag when I travel with the idea of not buying anything so it would be just nice, after all it's only two nights or a week max.

And then you find yourself at the end of your trip, you struggle to zip up because suddenly you end up with new stuff and old stuff that you probably didn't use. You flew it all the way there to contemplate whether to leave that so you can fit in your new purchases.

I don't know about you, but I experience it every single time. Yes, I have been traveling since I was 11, and 10 years later I'm still very much a poor planner. I'm one of those people that suck at rolling clothes to save space.

One a.m. Suitcase is still empty. Clothes still hanging wet outside (apparently moonlight works too. not. lol) Tomorrow starts early, appointments to go to, items to collect, stuff to pack.

Yay! Excited about Taiwan! This is the land of F4/LeeHom/JayChou/FunnyGameShows! ;)

same thing, but different meaning

2009-09-08T18:28:00.002+08:00

Keep friendships like you keep long hair

2009-08-26T10:53:00.006+08:00

This has nothing to do with Jennifer Aniston and her hair. But today felt like Friends on the last few episode of the last season. What a journey it has been for me this year, my best ever yet, and I hope to say that for every single year.

Friendships are like your hair, if you let it grow, it gets longer.

Today I sit at my [messy] cubicle, reminiscing over the past 10 months I have been here. And it's coming to an end in two days. To think that a couple months back, I was in state of emotional turmoil; it feels in a situation where you struggle to finish the last few bites of your food to avoid being accused of having an eating disorder.

That which does not kill you, only makes you stronger. -Nietzsche-

For the past ten months, I have learned more than I what I've learned in theory. The characters that I meet, the frustration of dealing with people, and never fails to remind me to work harder on myself, in terms of attitude and mindset no matter how big your dream is; whether it is to change the world or change the person next to you, you have to start with yourself.

Adventure is out there! -UP-

Most of us is like Mr. Fredricksen, we often look for perfection in timing. We are always in fear that our lives will never start; and as time passes by, we get old and die. Funny how we never appreciate what life has to offer us at the moment.

Ask someone who failed their test by one mark, the joy of passing the second time
Ask someone who missed their flight by one minute, when they're on time

We may fail today, we may struggle, we may face the biggest challenge, we may be waiting and wondering when life starts.

The one message I really like from "P.S I love You", "Honey, life has already started. We make mistakes, and you're in the wrong species if you think you can do without it".

But here's how you can minimize the wrong things, and do more of the right things. :)

champions are not made in gyms

2009-08-21T12:35:00.005+08:00

#1 It's Friday!
#2 This is my true calling.
#3 I'm starting this in September.
#4 I'm thinking of getting another new pair of Nike's (maybe this)
#5 Next purchase: Canon Powershot G10.
#6 Off to Singapore and Taiwan, next couple of weeks.
#7 This has been an exciting year- looking forward to 2010.

Are you a Giver or a Taker?

2009-08-18T15:04:00.004+08:00

I have a fair share of people who I came across and have told me that I'm going the wrong direction. A doubt? Or just maybe it's the experience that they have gone through. I happened to have one of those conversation today.

A few years back when I was making a decision to go to college (deciding what to do in life), my dad hooked me up with a college principle who offered to be a career or study counselor. There was no preparation at all; I wasn't going for a job interview, I was going for a "life" interview and at that time from knowing what I wanted to do, I didn't know what to do (if that made any sense).

Long story short, I didn't do very well. He told me straight (not in exact words but you get the drift), "You don't have a plan, you don't know what to do in life, based on our interview, you have no dreams". Friends who are reading this would shake their head in disbelief. This friend that they have known through school, through college cannot possibly be the same person who went for the interview, because I've always "knew" what I wanted.

Obviously, I was boiling inside like a volcano which is about to erupt; probably it's the ego, but today, I thank him (in a way) for what I have become today, for the choices I made to stand where I am today. I didn't prove him wrong, I just proved myself that I am capable of growing and live to my fullest potential throughout my college years.

Today, on the verge of my two weeks notice, I had a long talk with my boss. After a series of "Kiyosaki-Trump-Napolean Hill-Ziglar" years of experience cramped into one, I was again challenged once more that I'm heading the wrong way.

As much as I could wish to say I'm right and he's wrong would be unfair as he has experienced and seen more of the real world. Although I'm not saying anyone that has seen more of the world would be right all the way.

Remember taking tests that is so easy for fifth graders and seems so complicated for us?

As a freshie, you won't be able to win a lot of debates against experienced been there-done that seniors. We may be a 5th grader, but we may know the simple answer to complicated questions if compared to someone who's trying to solve an minor problem with a complicated answer.

Out of the 60 minutes talk, I would like to extract one statement which probably my guide when I leave my comfortable chair and cubicle in less than two weeks time. This question or statement would be one of the reason why he is in his position today.

The question would be, "Are you a giver or a taker?".

Most people think in terms of "What do I get from giving?", consider this instead, "What can I offer?" This applies to everything in life- work, relationships, spiritual. Something for you to ponder on. I already have my answer to that, and I will continuously use that for my decision making in life. So should you.

Death never fails to remind me the impermanence of life

2009-08-06T17:17:00.004+08:00

Death is an end experience to one, a first for most
First for some to feel a sense of loss of a loved one
First for some to wake up without the warmth on the left side of the bed after 30 years
First for some to be angry because it felt like a repossession of something that they had

While we complain life's a drag
Death snatches it like a quick exit

Life's too short to not enjoy, they will tell you
Life will be short if you enjoy too much

What if, life can be longer if you enjoy bit by bit everyday?At least you're able to control that part of your life. Being responsible of your own self, if the day comes for you to go on, then so be it. Don't take life's duration as an excuse for you to be a drunk, for you to smoke 10 packs a day, for you to womanize, for you to be lazy.

I have seen a young man who never used that as an excuse. My ex-classmate who battled cancer since he was 11; I never hear him grunt. His illness did not stop his creativity of his mind. He possessed the mental power that many might not have. He succumbed to death, only physically, but never his will power.

The sun will set, and it will rise again,
Let this be a lesson for the living who must move on,
Take this responsibility for your own life,
Never settle anything less than what you deserve,
Cherish every breathing moment, and that's what life is about...

I'm an idiot in matters of affection

2009-08-04T19:08:00.004+08:00

Twitter is great because it always feel like you're standing on top of a hill, you shout whatever you want to, but usually it's soundproof-ed.

Todd Kuffner, another mega talented bloody brilliant musician Youtuber, yet undiscovered, untouched, raw acoustics, dual brain- the logic and the writer, and I get to claim that I've "discovered" him first!

Maybe it's just me, but don't you feel "common" when you listen to a new song and you like it, and then, it gets overplayed on the radio, when they come out with a cd, it heavily produced with another 5 instruments, and suddenly the special song that meant a lot to you loses its feel?

It's always this case, we want something that belongs to us to be special, unique and one of a kind. I love the idea and all, but I believe the uniqueness ends at our fingerprint and DNA. I know this is hard to accept, but I don't think we're that unique. I think when you decide you're "different", you're accepting the fact that you're you, no matter how hard you try or how much effort you put in, you will remain as you are. It's like giving into fate or destiny, that's how we are, we shouldn't change anything about ourselves.

Stay stagnant. Do you see the irony of that?

I'm not saying get a knee extension if you're four feet and aspire to be supermodel, or change your personality so that someone you're trying to impress will like you.

I'm saying, to get an A, you have to do what you have to do, study if you must, put in extra effort in your presentation, push yourself to do the things you wouldn't normally do.

Be uncomfortable, the economy won't stay that way, if you don't have money, change, go learn some new skill to earn extra income, say YES to opportunities. You know being obese is unhealthy, don't tell me you're different, go take some nutrition class if you have to, go walk a mile.

I think what makes successful people different from the common people is the effort and the belief. They didn't have it any better; they were not on Forbes list the day they was born. They weren't household names the minute they graduate from high school.

Success is limited by your imagination and hardwork.

To be what is called happy, one should have something to live on, something to live for, something to die for. The lack of one of these, results in drama, the lack of two results in tragedy.

There are flaws in our education system, in fact, flaws everywhere we look, the government, the society, the media.

From how we were brought up to think, we strive for perfection, we airbrush fine lines and pores cover girls and trick every human being into believing that it's possible to look like that. Cosmetics and creams that promises that results, money spent on the quest for perfection. And media spends time talking about who's put on weight, and who has had botox last week.

Get good grades, get into an Ivy League, get a good job, have the perfect family, retire and die.

Is there any guarantee at all that you will become the most successful person if you go through that path? Or the happiest?

Now when you stop striving for perfection, you start to live your life. I'm not saying don't strive for what you deserve. If it's a dream to travel the world, go for it, by all means. We deserve the best things in life, only if you continue to ask yourself: What's next?

Ask a mountain climber who has conquered Mount Everest, I'm pretty sure that he has upgraded himself slowly by going for various mountain expeditions and have succeeded before he went for Everest.

Would you have passed a driving test before learning how to drive?
Would you have understood grief if you haven't lost a loved one?
Would you have done 100 push ups if you can't even manage 50?

Strive for what life can give you.
Strive for what it's worth,
Strive for the destination, as the journey will be unfold its magical moments.

a man after my own heart

2009-07-29T18:09:00.003+08:00

Alain de Botton on TED.com about our ideas of success and failures. Also, he is helping to run The School of Life, at Central London which I read a couple of months back on NYtimes.com. Coincidentally, to add to the awesome-ness, we share Dec 20.

This TED talk will tell you why we dread of attending high school reunions, and the difference between unfortunate and loser; of success and failure.

He put it very nicely, and I quote,"Let's make sure our idea of success are truly our own" Unquote.

Chuck Palahniuk rocks Monday blues away

2009-07-27T18:03:00.002+08:00

All of us need a Chuck Palahniuk (Paula-Nik), at least I think I do.

You have a choice. Live or die. Every breath is a choice. Every minute is a choice.
To be or not to be.

Uh-oh, then you graduate

2009-07-24T11:32:00.006+08:00

High School Never Ends By Bowling for Soup.

Highlights of the song:

The Whole Damn World is just as obsessed
With who's the best dressed and (who's having sex)
Who‘s got the money. Who (gets the honeys)
Who's kinda cute and who's just a mess

And I still don't have the right look
And I still have the same 3 friends
And I'm pretty much - the same as - I was back then

****

It's always fun reminiscing because you don't have to go through it again. It's like how Godfather 2 or 3 will never be as good as the original Godfather 1. Fun while it lasted, while you go for second helping, you're too full anyways.

Today, looking back at the decision I made 2 1/2 years, I have more, "I shouldn't have done that" more than "I should have" (s), which I'm truly glad of. The pain of regrets is worst than anything. If I haven't dyed my hair blonde (ugly, and still not proud of it), I wouldn't know what's a bad hair color for me, haha.

Well, that's not the point. What I'm saying is that if you have not jump into the cool water of opportunities (okay, I totally fail at that), you wouldn't know whether it is for you or not.

In life, I don't think there's a path set for you, you make choices, and you decide whether something is for you or not.

You play by the rules of the game, you know them well enough to break em, and make it your own along the way.

and this post will end abruptly. like now. it's friday, relax, have a great weekend! ;)

Somebody says that I should be afraid

2009-07-22T20:10:00.005+08:00

All these feelings and emotions that comes flooding in makes you want to blog or twitter about it and it goes something along those lines, "Is it just me or..." and you will find one million other people feeling the same way too. Is it just me, or does that make you feel you're not alone, or more like, "I'm not really that unique after all?" *cue to laugh*

Don't you agree that we are all striving to be original, to do something different, and stand out of the crowd; everything has been that way from college essays to why your potential employer should hire you to also why you think you deserve to be financially free? To be No. 1 in class, instead of No.4, because they will award those Top 3 anyways.

Nothing in this world which is not a competition, one way or another. And that's the irony of it. To stand out or to be the best so that we can be different, or are we really?

We want to fit in, but we want to stand out. We don't want to be stereotyped, but we want to fit in the category of what the world thinks is okay.

I guess it's things that you can't solve like whether the chicken or the egg comes first, or like whether you go pro-choice or anti on abortion. Great for debates, but nothing will ever come out from it. Period.

*************

Moving on, let's move on and do some pimping, shall we?

The One Days:HK- See Through from the Wongfu boys.

About a guy on a trip with his brother in Hong Kong, who cannot overcome his breakup with his girlfriend 6 months ago. He meets a girl who is also breaking up with the boyfriend; and he sees her point of view as though from his ex girlfriend's.

6 months by Hey Monday. It would be a perfect soundtrack for the above short.

You think this song is about you, don't you?

2009-07-20T15:01:00.006+08:00

We often discuss, debate, complain, having opinions about what's happening in the world. The war, the murders, global warming, this and that, even the noise your neighbors make, or how irritating a person can be. Don't worry, this is not about them, or you.

It's about me.

Yup, you heard it right. Me, myself and I.

The past 6 months has been a great ride for me. Excitement, frustration, challenges, fun, all in one. And when we often face all those that I mentioned above, you would tend to go, "Why does it happen to me?" "Why me?" Like it's not happening to anyone else but yourself. The problem is everyone thinks that way, so, it is okay.

The thing is, all these "external" things happening to ourselves, and most of the time, the only thing we can do is blame. "It's you, not me" although the words come out differently. It's always how you make me feel, how the world is changing that is affecting me, how people treat you affects your mood, how you're putting on weight and you're blaming McDonald's, the list goes on and on.

I don't know about you, but I think I'm going take today, to do what I'm supposed to do. If I needed to lose that few pounds, I'm going exercise 30 minutes, three times a day. If I'm going to make a lot of money, I need to do something that's going to work for me, if 3 liters is what I need, I'm going to drink 3 liters of water, if I need to read one more book, listen to one more audio, I will.

Truth is, I'm tired of complaining. We're often tired from hearing complaints, but don't you think, the real fatigue comes from our own? I believe our mind can only do one thing, find a solution, or make excuses. So, which one?

Find your center, know yourself, find your direction, decide on one, and move towards it. No point doing the same thing over again, and expect different results. Hell with pride, to hell with "I know this is my "destiny" but I'm silently suffering. Nothing is worth it if it's taking a toll on ourselves. If you want a better tomorrow, then do something!

It's not whether if I should, or I could, it's I will, and I would.

There isn't a bigger hypocrite than "sacrifice" oneself before saving yourself first.

The Meaning of Life

2009-07-17T12:08:00.004+08:00

pic credit: Jeff Miller/University of Wisconsin-Madison

Canto, 27 (left)- on a restricted diet, Owen, 29 (right), eats whatever he wants

Roger Cohen written this article about "The Meaning of Life" on NYTimes based on the two monkeys (pic) Canto, and Owen, which is part of a study of the links between diet and aging. This study is being held at the University of Wisconsin, where Canto, the monkey gets a restricted diet with 30 percent fewer calories compared to his fat "I-can-eat-whatever-I-like" friend, Owen.

Preliminary conclusions published in the Science, two decades after the experiment began, "demonstrates that calorie restriction slows aging process in primate species." While 13 percent of the dieting group has died in ways judged due to old age, 37 percent of the feasting monkeyts are already dead.

Cohen's case in point is not to defy the study- but more on the monkeys' feelings. Low Cal- Canto seems to be depressed, while High Cal- Owen seemed more radiant and happy being fat.

Wait a minute.

In a funny way, I think Canto is thinking, "Oh great, I have been dieting my WHOLE life and this picture comes along and spoil everything by putting 10 pounds on me. In other hand, Owen looks like one the Balinese Temple Monkeys (still in better shape than them), 29 years old looking like a hollywood plastic surgery gone wrong. Note that Canto is actually better groomed than shabby looking Owen.

Based on the study, I still don't think we can use the study above to compare with people. We, unlike, Owen (although some of us doesn't look to far apart from that), have choices to eat, and you're saying he eats whatever he likes (it doesn't make any sense) .Owen is afterall, still in a cage, and if he hasn't been exposed to Burger King or McD's commercials, would he choose to have that? And I supposed shabby looking does not equal happy looking. I reckon that Canto is so much better looking (being biased this way).

And the whole thing about gain without pain, by looking for an alternative way to "help" (spoil) people to gain (life expectancy) without pain(of dieting). Utter Crap (with a capital C).

Cohen seems to take Owen's side. To him, "Living up to 120 years old holds zero appeal to him", which looks like he's saying that people who live up to 120 years old must be boring and always in misery.

I beg to differ.

There was a particular comment for this post that I'll like to highlight:

Comment #13 by StThomas1957, in which he said, and I quote, "Roger Cohen seems to have missed one thing in his analysis: free will. I suspect that the caged Canto's real misery lies not so much in the abstimeous lifestyle he is forced to endure, but in the fact that it is not his choice to make in the first place." Unquote.

I agree with him; if say, a person who chose to go on a healthy diet and lives up to 120 years old, I reckon he or she would be more happy and contented, rather than those who are forced to go on a diet when their doctor decided they need to do something like lose weight for instance. And I don't want go there.

Well, you are what you eat; you are what you choose. Life is defined by choices; there's no "Jai Ho" moments when it comes to what you'll become.

Cohen conveniently quoted "Life must be lived forward, but only can be understood backwards". Well, the truth is, when you're 65 and hopefully no pain-yet the last thing you want to look back is the counting of how much of McD double cheese burgers you had.

Take a chance, but not on your life, at least not on the expense of your life (health) and the things you want to realize.

Even I know that

2009-07-15T12:23:00.004+08:00

Got inspired by this post.

1. It's never fun if you're at the losing side of the table (not for long!)
2. Soy nuts. Salty.
3. I miss my choco protein bars. Herbalicious.
4. Liquid lunch
5. Can't wait for dinner. What should I have? Can't wait to see you and you!
6. Good prep for dinner- 100 boxes done, 100 more to go. Hard labor, tau?
7. Best part, no sweat! ;)
8. Oo. I'm wearing my skinny today.
9. Asked my dad how I looked; well, wrong person to ask
10. OMG. David Choi covered Zee Avi's Bitterheart! Click!
11. Larry King asked: Why are objects in the rear view mirror closer than they appear?
12. Spam. more spam. I wonder why I keep the old email add.
13. Em Watson looks super lady-i-like in a tiered nude organza dress.
14. I have two hot dresses in which I needed to find two occasions to wear em.
15. I'm not regretting it, but I really don't see the point now.
16. Commercial break: Peach tea!
17. Self-censorship is too much.
18. Hwa Tai Crackers
19. Zac Efron- Ashton in the making. You can't deny the chemistry in 17 again, hello?
20. I'm still 20! I hope I'll do something amazing by the time I turn twentyone.
21. H&G. Hi and Goodbye. I know, C&C. Corny and Cheesy. I don't care.

It's easy to pick when one laughs like a Hyena...

2009-07-14T14:39:00.003+08:00

and the other one looks like Meg Ryan sans botox.

Hyena Vs. Meg Ryan. Easy pick.

The problem with romantic comedies or any movies with lead roles as the main theme, is that they make it Love for Dummies series. They go to the extreme to make sure, we, the audience don't get confused.

Like seriously, who are you going choose? "You complete me" Vs. "It's my grandmother's, I sized them down, she had fat fingers". Less is more. Stick to three words, and you'll never go wrong.

I hate you, I love you; you eliminate room for misinterpretation. But women will always be blamed for thinking too much about the things men say such as, "It's not you, it's me".

Clearly by now, women are already known to have the ability to multitask, which also leads to "What do you mean by that exactly?"

And if you already read all this and nod your head, well, you know you want to agree that we just want to fall in love like the movies. If only we have obvious choice. Then again, we all don't live in the "perfect" movie world, even if we want to.

let's join in this ecstasy

2009-07-10T16:48:00.002+08:00

Happy Proposal. Fake or real? I voted fake, but towards the end I voted real because life's too short for cynicism and skepticism.

this place could be much brighter than tomorrow

2009-07-09T09:16:00.004+08:00

Sometimes, it takes something huge to make us start reflecting on our current self or situation; it took a passing of a legend this time around; not only an icon, but a human being, a man, no less. In the words of Maya Angelou, "We had him".

He may not be God, but he has lived his life on stage, scrutinized of every act on stage and off stage. He was God-like, people worshiped him but didn't spare him off the stage. Even until the very end, he had a mega solemn stage exit; life is indeed a brief's candle.

The testimonials, eulogies by his closest friends and family during his memorial struck me; could it be that this man lived a life of a friend, a son, a brother, a father? He was invincible, he was incomparable, he was anything but human-like in terms of his capabilities, but we do forget that he's fragile too, he has a heart and he is all human, but with a heart bursting with love and generosity; to share his talent to the world.

The world, the media was not able to take him as it is; he was powerful, he was in every household, he was something to everyone; his beat, infamous moonwalk, his high pitch voice, his persona, his soft spoken personality. In one way or another, we take it all in, we spit him out; taking for granted of God's gift, or messenger.

He was a messenger of peace, he was true love preacher; but always misunderstood for having personal hidden intentions. We are human, so is he. One man for the world, but it's not easy having the world against you.

"Smile, as though your heart is aching", this particular line from his favorite song by Charlie Chaplin is telling us his life on stage. Hurtful words, critics may have crush his fragile and innocent heart, but he is always smiling. And even that, people can still find fault in his smiling. The world is judgmental; we conform to the norms of society and we seek approval; he is one of the few that tried to make a change.

He lived his life like a prophet. I'm not saying he deserved to worshipped; but what I'm saying that this man, this unbelievable man; stripped of his talents, of his name, of his background, deserves our [final] respect. He who has sacrificed himself, and poured so much love and kindness for the world, deserves to be loved.

The world should celebrate his life; and life goes on after this. Take this as a great lesson; take this as a story shared throughout our generation and our children' generation. For a man who has raised the bars, and broke the bars; and knowing, "We had him".

you ain't seen anything yet

2009-07-06T22:07:00.003+08:00

My real stage isn't here. but it did paved a way- through the ups and downs, friendships, politics; the learning curve is unbelievable, and I wouldn't trade it for the world.

The warm up session is completed, now let's take on the real thing, and I shall take my place on the real stage; that I look forward to.

Our 20 years of education leads to...

2009-07-03T17:44:00.005+08:00

Sit back and think, we studied for 20 years or more to wear a gown, to call yourself a graduate, to say I'm officially an adult, to cry out loud, "Why did I ever wished to grow up so fast?"

Like how the elders feel about nearing the end, fresh grads fear the real world. We grew up to aim for the moon and to ignore the stars, A+ if you can, C, you're no good. The more subjects you take for your SPM, the better chances of getting more As; the list never ends.

I think I'm a little feverish now that it has finally hit me, that I'll be officially a diploma graduate tomorrow[ ignoring the fact I have already been working for half a year, or we'll be the super seniors among the graduating lots] There are a few congratulatory messages, and yetI didn't feel a thing.

Some won't be attending the convocation. Some will. This seems like a 10th year reunion for our batch... Probably no kids, more like telling how amazing your current job is, or how much weight you lost or gained, or your new image, or the places you've traveled over the past year.

Oh, the feeling is all jumbled up, like salad, now I'm not sure whether to go with mayo, italian or thousand, maybe a little bit of olive oil, less calories that way, ;) I think you only go through this when you're waiting for your exam results, your reunion, convocation, marriage, preggus test, well let's not go too far in the future; but it's moments like these that make you go all jittery, speechless, and seriously there are no words for it.

If it was a pie, then it would be real messy.
If it was a scene in a movie, it would be the final battle in LOTR 3. ;p
If it was a moment, this would really come close to giving birth, the part where you breath in and out, and regret and then you cry, "My beautiful baby".

Now, I just hope I don't "deliver".

Life can only be understood backwards; but it must be lived forwards.

2009-06-26T09:20:00.010+08:00

If I had my life to live over again, I would start barefoot earlier in the spring and stay that way later in the fall. I would go to more dance; I would ride more merry-go-rounds.

I would pick more daisies.

Nadine Stair, 85 years old
Click for story

Best Line from Rocky Balboa

2009-06-24T10:19:00.003+08:00

This kid's gonna be the best kid in the world. This kid's gonna be somebody better than anybody I ever knew." And you grew up good and wonderful. It was great just watching you, every day was like a privilege.

Then the time come for you to be your own man and take on the world, and you did. But somewhere along the line, you changed.

You stopped being you.

You let people stick a finger in your face and tell you you're no good.

And when things got hard, you started looking for something to blame, like a big shadow.

Let me tell you something you already know. The world ain't all sunshine and rainbows.

It's a very mean and nasty place and I don't care how tough you are it will beat you to your knees and keep you there permanently if you let it. You, me, or nobody is gonna hit as hard as life. But it ain't about how hard ya hit.

It's about how hard you can get it and keep moving forward. How much you can take and keep moving forward. That's how winning is done! Now if you know what you're worth then go out and get what you're worth.

But ya gotta be willing to take the hits, and not pointing fingers saying you ain't where you wanna be because of him, or her, or anybody! Cowards do that and that ain't you!

More here.

I love reading horoscopes

2009-06-23T16:00:00.009+08:00

Well, it's never entirely true or false, it sits on the fence; trying to warn you and it makes you feel good about yourself. Like a fairytale; except they left out the word: reality harshness.

Life is like fairytale (Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty, Snow White, Rapunzel all mashed up into one) You will have more than one encounter of the fire dragon, evil stepmother, poisonous apples and definitely more than one Prince Charming trying to sweep you off your feet, you either fall into his arms, or fall flat on the floor; in great hope that you don't get a concussion.
****

Speaking of which, I'm back from the Land of Morning Calm- no, I did not come in contact with the H1NI, and no, I'm still in one piece (last time I checked, no nuclear radiation as yet). Morning Calm, named after the Chosun dynasty (the last ruling dynasty). If you say Chosun (in canto), it means Good Morning too.

Oh, other than that, I was in the midst of a strike (riot), 14,000 crowd in a room, hot and spicy street food, finally get my hands on those infamous BB (Blemish Balm) cream, had a load of Kimchi, cute Korean securities (just probably well dressed men), and sunset cruise, oh, 1 meter away from Jang Nara. What else? Hmm, I can't say it was what I imagined. Korean dramas, are well, drama afterall; but it's beautiful; summer is fine, I enjoyed shopping, eating ice cream in the hot sun, enjoying fabulous views from the top of the world and subway rides- and meeting new friends. ;)

If I didn't know any better, I would call S. Korea, the Land of Bridges. In Seoul itself, there are 18 bridges, and it was built in 20 years. Before that, it was literally nothing because of the war. Now, I guess they can't stop building bridges- and funny fact is that the border between S. Korea and North is about few hundred meters, before it was around 4 kilometers. Now, young soldiers could care less about what both leaders think of each others- they do bond- by throwing Choco pies at each other.

The most polite strike ever, with a group of Ajumma throwing rice bowls at the police in front of the KB star building.

Shopping at Myeondong.

One for the album.

New friends from Austria (left) at Namsan Tower, Korean (Marketing) students that helped us with the directions. :)

Street food. Dubboki!

Golden in colour: Building 63 (Yuk-Sam), and HanGang [sunset] Cruise.

Just because of this scene from Seducing Mr. Perfect. But the night cruise doesn't exist; the last cruise is at 7:30pm. Our new friends just didn't believe how well versed I am about the Korean wave. Even the tourist guide was telling me it was unbelievable how big the impact was. Government campaigns would fail, but not the drama power.

60 floors and 3 basements. 63 building is the tallest national art gallery in the world. It has restaurants, Seaworld, Imax theater.

Jang Nara, Me in a fabulous "guess how much" dress. xD

I have a total of 1,500 pictures or more; and I don't know where to start. Next time, 7 days 5 nights is for shopping only trip. I'll have it on my flickr later on.

Places to go: Eh, flight is tonight?

2009-06-15T12:02:00.006+08:00

pic credit: dallas news

[I've been waiting so long to say this] In less than 48 hours , I'll be striking off another one on my Places to go list- this remains special to me as I have waited 12 years for this trip.

Somehow, I'm always patiently waiting, and the best has yet to come; which I think is good; because the best has yet to come.

It's a different feeling this time, maybe it hasn't sunken in yet; all these mixed feelings I have; I'm always expecting, oh boy do I have high expectations or what, but this time maybe I've decided to not expect too much this time around, because disappointments are caused by your own unrealistic expectations.

In whatever you do, there's always ups and downs, but more of those if you keep having unrealistic expectations; and I'm always the victim of it and it does anything but good for yourself; affects you in whatever you do; your self esteem, confidence, relationship- the whole nine yards.

Dale Carnegie said, "It isn't what you have, or who you are, or where you are, or what you are doing that makes you happy or unhappy. It is what you think about."

Wait wait wait, I'm still on the same topic. I don't want to bore you out; oh wait, I just did.

Funny part is, my dad called, and asked me, "Eh, is the flight tonight?". I bet there will be more things to laugh about along the trip.

Oh, and I'm typing this with "hot from the oven" deep purple metallic painted nails. Hmm...

every man dies, not every man really lives

2009-06-11T23:12:00.008+08:00

and they complain life is short. well, if you ain't living it, it will be. and if you don't say YES! today, you won't be making the mistakes, and you won't grow, only wither and die. And to keep it real short, count the Saturdays left in your life. Well, not much.

I personally believe [making a pageant speech because I can make fun of it that way] that if you know 5 years down the road that you wouldn't go anywhere if you keep to what you're doing now, change, evolve, do the whole metamorphosis, and do something different today.

What do you when you always have bad hair day after using your old brand for quite some time? You change to a new one. You change until you get the right shampoo for your hair, and that's what we need.

If you can change your hair, you would change your shampoo until you get the right one.

more : flickr@theuptownlife

Question is, What would it take for you to change your life?

Would you change your shampoo? ;) and What would you do differently?

Places to go: Boston

2009-06-09T12:23:00.008+08:00

Have ever feel attached to something, some place that you have never set foot on? Like you can feel it in your fingers, and toes curls up, well, almost as orgasmic as Bubbly can ever make you feel.

List of the places that make me feel that way:

Japan (Was there 2004!)

As opposed to Japan-is-kawaii-overrated, it is not. Immerse yourself in modern meets traditional culture. Use the first four days to do all the obligatory temple visiting, dance and plays and tea ceremony, then the rest of it (as below):-

Go to Fujinomiya and check out Mount Fuji- plan a summer climbing trip, cycle around town, take silly photos with purikura-style, go for "real" kaiten sushi, and chef [hand] made sushi, go to Kyoto for Geisha hunting, drink cold ice blended Starbucks during winter, jaywalking and get reprimanded by the police, go to Tokyo "Asakusa" temple during New Year, go for delicious authentic Unagi, Osechi on the first 3 days of New Year, wear kimono, Skinny Dipping ala Onsen!

Coffee in a bowl at Joe's Garage, Arrowtown, New Zealand (Also 2004, where they shot the scene where Princess Arwen saves Frodo from the evil dudes)

Bungee Jumping, Kawarau river - The 1st Bungee Jumping site in the world, 43 meters.

Horseback riding in Sydney Australia, Melbourne, St. Kilda' flea market, and Victoria Market(awesome plums!), and wine tasting in wineries.

Short interruption! You've got to listen to this!

David Choi (Super talented) and Paul Dateh.

What's next?
(I can feel it in my bones! ) ;p

Catch Shin Seung Hun live! (can't wait!)

by Augustana

I know what you did last weekend

2009-06-08T09:20:00.003+08:00

Caught oogling at soon-to-be-mine Mazda RX-8! ;o

Stares will follow when I go Zoom-zoom.
What a beauty!

the great analogy of a dog walker

2009-06-05T23:41:00.004+08:00

I brought the dog for a walk tonight; like every other evening for about 3 months now. I never owned a dog or a cat but somehow I get to enjoy these domestic pets' company. Well my point is, having read Marley & Me late last year got me thinking on how to create my version of it; oh well, I have the leash in my hand, so I was thinking I just need a story. Haha.

And today, I may not be as good as Grogan, nor Daisy the dog could ever replace Marley as the world worst' best dog (could've been his twin), I found it.

Found what, exactly?

Well, there are two routes, to go either by:-

i) Road Plan A- by the basketball court, the playground and to the house
ii) Road Plan B- by the canal, houses, grass area, house

Today, there were some change of plans because Daisy decided to take the lead (like she always does) So we went Plan A+Plan B. And as we approach our destination- which was like probably few hundred meters away- house in sight, not quite there yet. And then I realized what was happening.

In life, we have our goals, a destination we want to arrive at and you can probably see it, but you have a problem, a leash and your dog.

You try to run to your destination, but the dog wants to stop and sniff the grass and you stop.

And in life, you face challenges, things weren't always smooth, you are pulled back sometimes.

And then you try to run, while the dog is catching up. And when you're tired and slowed down, the dog takes the lead.

The dog now is your team/organization, you as the leader pull them together and trying to move forward, but your dog pulls back at times. But when you're tired, your dog runs forward while you try to catch up.

Imagine your team as a group like in the picture. What if one stop? Obviously you won't be able balance let alone move forward.

But sometimes when the dog stops to sniff- you might just learn to stop and smell the rose too. So, that ladies and gentlemen is my interpretation as a dog walker. It probably doesn't make any sense now, but if you look closer, then you'll see it.

Why Shakespeare doesn't just say, "Damn girl, you're pretty!" but wrote a poem's first line that went, "How shall I compare thee to a summer's day?" Well, that's another long story.
***

Edit: My Dog is a Buddhist by Om Gal.

we can make our own honey

2009-06-05T14:59:00.004+08:00

first lady of brushfire records- zee avi.

listen to kantoi at 5:28. ;)

just perfect for a post-friday lunch.

15 facts

2009-06-02T16:42:00.005+08:00

Because I can.

01. A girl should be seen and not heard.

An elderly told me that. Well, I'm one of the boys during childhood. Pokemon, Digimon battle, Starcraft- which I love! Very close to tomboy, or they like to say androgynous because it sounds sophisticated whatsoever. To act like a girl; I feel weak that way.

02. The rooftop room/attic.

I have a brief moment with my father's father; my grandfather. And we would all sleep in his wooden rooftop room/attic. You have to use a ladder to get to the room, so it was exciting. I wished I had learn violin from him.

03. I'm an old soul or trapped in a younger body.

Maybe I feel more comfortable with elderly, because they don't judge you and you get to talk to them about serious issues and hear their opinion at the same time. Put me in a room with a 60 year old than an empty vessel, anytime!

04. Competitive. Non obsessive type.

As an only child, I have no one to compare with except with my parents' expectations. I don't get obsessed over other people's results, I'm my worst competitor or judge. Sometimes, the pressure comes from myself. If I think I can do my best, I will, and when I face challenges, I will strive for greater results.

05. Worry cat/Want it all

I do worry too much at times. I was turning 20, and I had a panic attack of "What-have-I-achieved"? Now, I'm more realistic and taking it steady. I want a lot of things in life; very passion-driven, but I always feel I don't have enough time.

06. My pillar(s)

My parents. If I can't trust my parents, I shouldn't trust anyone else. My dad is my next best critic and supporter. He breaks me and makes me of who I am today. And my mum is the reason of my perfectionism at times- she is the Mary Poppins of my life.

07. Determination and Passion

I'm driven by these two. I wanted to learn piano, and my dad wasn't sure that I was serious, I had to practice at school and draw out a keyboard and play on a piece of paper. My dad try to teach me guitar, I found it hard. Once I went to college, I got hooked on Youtube and David Choi, "That Girl" wasn't easy to play. The first song I learned to play was Silent Night.

08. Japan has a special place in my heart

I don't know how, don't know why; but I was enthralled by Japan and its culture since I was a young girl. I finally went for a youth exchange, it was one of the best moments of my life. Having Mount Fuji view from your room, and have actually stood in front of the gentle giant; wow, that's truly unbelievable.

09. Magnet of talent- Aspires to be one.

I'm drawn naturally to talent(ed) people. Maybe it's a competitive nature, but I enjoy being around successful people- when I say successful, I don't mean grand parties or free flow champagne, 5 mansions, huge cars. All I need is passion and determination driven individuals, with a big heart.

10. Imagination overdrive

I love to read. I'm words driven. I paint pictures with my mind and my camera. I have a photographic memory for beautiful words and images. If I have to live with two things in my life, unlimited supply of books, and my dslr with unlimted supply of batteries.

11. World Citizen/Explorer- or trying to be.

True Malaysian- Chinese, Malay and Indian. But I believe my exposure to the world since I was 11 years old makes me a World Citizen at heart. My love for books, writings and photography just makes an smoother transition. I can paint how Santa Monica beach looks like without having to go there, but I know I want to be there. I can still paint a picture of my love for Prague- the little hidden wax museum, skeleton clock tower, quaint basement restaurants.

12. Language is music

Music in another language is not a barrier. From Hindustani to Korean, I swim with the melodies, and it's like a beautiful life soundtrack.

13. Saggitarian Dragon =extreme sports+ water

I'm a Saggi dragon girl with a natural love for bungee jumping, extreme boat rides, water sports, sea fishing.

14. Serendipity.

I like the word and the meaning. Fate/Destiny. Maybe it exist when you meet your match. The rest is your own doing. Other than that, I believe everything you do is a choice, if you choose to fate to be your master, then you'll have all the excuses in the world- and that's shouldn't be it.

On the last note,

15. I would never be this open to anyone in real life. ;)

You've got mail

2009-06-02T01:40:00.005+08:00

I cannot believe I actually fell asleep watching "You've Got Mail", well I was 10 at that time, probably the whole email and cyber love hasn't really drum into me yet. After 10 years, I finally saw it again. It was like first love. Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan are deliciously great together; I mean their lines are so much deeper than "You complete me". Come on... and jumping on the couch ;p

Speaking of which, I did have my own version of "You've Got Mail". Too bad it wasn't Tom Hanks, or some Prince from Denmark, and I was more of a "We're right for each other, but we don't love each other" [Frank and Kathleen- YGM]. So, for me the sun itself sees not till heaven cleared. Shakespeare is genius, yo.

And somehow "Love Story" is playing in my head. How apt. Oh, Taylor's great. And so is Kate Winslet's singing. But Smiley has my vote for "The Climb" for 2009- that's just brilliant- it's like a flashback of Britney's "I'm Not a Girl, Not Yet a Woman".

brilliant [s]miley.

Today...

2009-06-01T17:58:00.004+08:00

I'm worth RM 90.90 a day on my job. Well, that's RM 9 per hour.
Hmm, it's like Baskin Robin's on the 31st of the month.

So do most people (fresh graduates).

Oh boy am I glad to worth RM 313.63 a day on my financial freedom plan.

You know what they say, if you have to ask, you can't afford it. So, if you want to retire early, well, you know what they say, DO SOMETHING.

And yet, you can have the best of both world Hannah Montana style ;)

Father of Personal Development and Business Philosopher, Jim Rohn said, keep your job that pay the bills, but invest in doing something to build a fortune.

Quote of the hour

2009-05-26T14:09:00.003+08:00

"When we are no longer able to change a situation - we are challenged to change ourselves."

Victor E. Frankl
Author of Man's Search for Meaning

Monday equals Reality [Show]

2009-05-25T23:37:00.003+08:00

They weren't kidding when they say Monday's doomsday.

My dark circles begin to multiply every time I check myself in the mirror. And somehow bad skin compliments the whole look. Something only sufficient sleep can help to recharge quickly but looking at the current chaos, maybe a 600 dollars oxygen facial will fix it.

Quote of the day:

Knowing is not enough; we must apply. Being willing is not enough; we must do.

- Leonardo Da Vinci-

Simple theory explained, knowing you need sleep is not enough, you have to sleep. Being willing to put your health first is not enough, you must do it.

My cue to say good night.

All these thoughts I have...

2009-05-22T14:52:00.004+08:00

Lack of composure, all over, baffling at times, has a mind of its own. sugar-high like.

I think I have yet to find a way to express my feelings and emotions.

I envy talented musicians that is able to channel all that into songs.

JT to Brit- "Cry Me a River" ; John Mayer can describe ALL his ex relationships from "Your Body is a Wonderland" to "Comfortable" and Miley turns scandals into "The Climb".

We all need to break out into a song like Broadway because a little drama is fun and if there is I want to live in that world. Soundtrack of your life.

For now, I'm looking forward to my guitar sessions without knowing how to tune a guitar because I'm tone deaf that way, and voice that sound like oh oh, quoting Simon, "When a cat fall off a building before it hit the ground" unquote.

Simon Cowell is a true artist of criticism- I think he is his own worst critic. Nobody can be judge unless they're their own worst judge.

quiet time

2009-05-19T00:05:00.003+08:00

I glued myself on the couch watching Koffee with Karan, wondering how Saif Ali Khan grew only to be more handsome with age (well, the interview was in 2007). And I will always remember his first breakout performance in my first ever Hindustani tear jerker, Hum Saath Saath Hain- my first love. Now, now, I think I have given away too much- I'm a world citizen that way.

You don't need to know the language, you just got to have the love for culture. I'm not talking Capati/Tosai here, but have you fall in love with a korean song- but you don't know a single word of the lyrics. Empathy for the life of a Geisha-even the closest thing you'll come to knowing Japanese is "kawaii"? Your undying love for a person/celeb/ etc of a different race or culture just because you know the hardship they went through, the determination and hardwork that was responsible for their success today?

Then I waited for Enchanted, the movie, to finish- because I'm [dreaming of a true love's kiss] romantic that way.

On Flickr, photos like this- I have City Love playing in my head, and this (the world is aware), reminds me of how a story, song, lyrics melody flow endlessly in one's imaginative mind.

It's 12:27am, and I have ulcers from not getting enough of sleep. I will have a few late nights in this week, no doubt. A focus group, a funeral, and work to attend to. Who said life is boring, in this case, we have death to keep us reminded as well- life is short only if you didn't notice one second of your moment.

Life isn't disappointing- people who do is because of unrealistic expectations- sitting in the same place, doing the same thing and expecting another thing- which is borderline insanity.

***

Lesson of the post:

Excuses are equal. Don't try to justify, you'll end up settling for less.
Winning is not everything, but Wanting to Win Is.
At least try, even if you get a whooping in the ass the first time, it's okay.
Do the 1st step, before thinking about the 2nd step.
And how else you can get to the 2nd if you don't do the 1st step?

good night.

****

It's important when...

2009-05-15T22:49:00.002+08:00

It's not there...

Time is important when it's not there.
Money is important when it's not there.
Health is important when it's not there.

To the moments we've missed
To the life we have not lived
To our worth we've humbled ourselves

Let's try to live today like it's going to be the last; make it worthwhile; leave with no regrets.

if you have to ask, you can't afford it

2009-05-09T17:25:00.003+08:00

Of course, living well in Los Angeles isn't impossible, as long as you have the funds. The aforementioned Shakur probably wouldn't have any trouble making ends meet in L.A., or anywhere else, for that matter. The rapper makes about $15 million per year in residuals--despite the fact he's been dead for 12 years.

source: yahoo news

Bad news: World's Unemployment Rate.
***

Some say go back to school.
Some say Play It Safe.
Some complains and it never stops.

I say take a chance.

Crisis= Opportunity. Which one do you see?
Never let anyone rob you of your dreams?
What's the point of dreaming?

Every great achievement begins with a dream.
A dream to fly, a dream to not live in darkness, a dream for beautiful tunes.

Disappointments are only caused by your unrealistic expectations.

Take time to realize:

Just Over Broke is NEVER the way to go.
Excuses or Solution; you may only focus in on area.

Just ask yourself:

What am I doing TODAY for my financial future? Be it for my family, personal, education, health?

Are you building a pipeline or still using buckets for the water?

Re: Things they don't tell you in Starbucks

2009-05-09T16:27:00.006+08:00

My turn now, Carrie.

Bladder cleared, hand moisturized with Body Shop Lotion in those RM2 premium toilets.

Have a Starbucks Barista get you a comfy sofa seat with "Let me get you a drink" service provided.

Have a Kwai lou (because Caucasian doesn't sound cool) ask you "Can I share a seat with you?"Truly international Exposure: Phillipinos, Punjabs, Americans, Chinese, Koreans, Japanese.

View on the left: People buying luggage, on the right people queuing for drink.

Well, Starbucks is truly an experience. They don't sell RM12 caffeine and sugar laden drinks for nothing eh?

***
Speaking of experience; I went shopping with a friend and oh well, let me rephrase: She's doing the shopping.

We went to Thomas Sabo; and she spent thousand bucks on her plastic for a birthday gift; and I get to be opinionated- if it's the right term for that. "Oh that would look nicer..." Priceless. Of course, check out their designs. Although who knew Charm braceletes (silver and cubic zirconia) could be of a price of an arm and leg; ok, maybe gold.

Business is very good though. When we were there, about 5 people walked in and bought something. The sales girls can be TERRIBLE but they can still sell it. I mean, everything is pretty much bull; like i.e. "The Snake represents Energy and it's being different". Hello?

Which proves to say; people don't buy because of the price. I mean if you can put a "value" on a piece of fugly rubber shoe (make it comfy so that people won't notice its ugliness) and call it Crocs, people would run for it.

****

My word of advice: Get a rich friend, so you can get them to buy you an exsy pressie if they forget your birthday.Or better make them forget it.

A Whole New World

2009-05-06T10:27:00.004+08:00

I can show you the world
Shining, shimmering, splendid
Tell me, princess, now when did
You last let your heart decide?

I can open your eyes
Take you wonder by wonder
Over, sideways and under
On a magic carpet ride

A whole new world
A new fantastic point of view
No one to tell us no
Or where to go
Or say we're only dreaming

A whole new world
A dazzling place I never knew
But when I'm way up here It's crystal clear
That now I'm in a whole new world with you

Now I'm in a whole new world with you
Unbelievable sights
Indescribable feeling
Soaring, tumbling, freewheeling
Through an endless diamond sky

A whole new world Don't you dare close your eyes
A hundred thousand things to see
Hold your breath - it gets better
I'm like a shooting star
I've come so far
I can't go back to where I used to be

A whole new world
Every turn a surprise
With new horizons to pursue
Every moment red-letter
I'll chase them anywhere
There's time to spare
Let me share this whole new world with you

A whole new world
That's where we'll be
A thrilling chase
A wondrous place
For you and me

Cover by Nick Pitera.

*******************************

Take this moment and re-live your childhood imagination and dreams.
Imagine Genie tells you, "Your wish is my command"
Or pretending you're Aladdin and have your wish come true
Or Princess Jasmine who wanted an adventure on a magic carpet ride...

Now...
Go back to reality, and continue searching.
You may not be knocking on the right door yet, but don't stop.
It could be the next one, and you're nearer than you think you are.

And please don't forget: Be happy with what you have in pursuit of better things in life.

You can lose your money today; but you can't lose your knowledge or your skills.
Even if you think you failed yesterday or maybe today; climb back up and march forward.
It's a whole new world everyday.

Midnight Blogger

2009-05-05T01:10:00.003+08:00

Not that there's anything mysterious about it. Or thrilling.

One thing I realized, 6 months into employment is that you do as what you're told. And they no excuses because your boss isn't your parents. You can't throw a fit.

But you can say, "I quit!" Or do a dramatic Devil Wears Prada ending!

Well, not funny to anyone that has been informed to not come to work because they're no longer needed or can the company afford to pay, which is usually the case. It's a sad economic situation; but whether you see it as a crisis or an opportunity, it's another different thing altogether.

But then again, employment. I have my fair share of the hot topic-"economy conversation "from all walks of life; aunties and uncles, cab drivers, neighbours, strangers. Swine flu is secondary when you're facing with money. In reality, to get a really nice burial plot on the hill overlooking the ocean cost more than you think.

Ex Airport Engineer Now- Taxi driver #1 laments about Beginning of the end of the world theory and ended with a "Why don't you work for the government? It's safe"

Aunty #2 says No Time. This came from a well educated, degree holder. The difference between contentment and excuses is stupidity.

Recently laid off #3 said No Time, Too busy because of Just Over Broke.

We grew up with ideas and plans- health, career, success, family, spiritual.

When you're 50 and you realize you don't have financial independence, maybe you got the wrong plan. So, if you're in a situation where you'd go "I didn't sign up for this", well, maybe someone gave you a wrong plan.

So, make a decision.

Choose to come up with a million of excuses Or find a solution.

A young man asked a successful businessman, "How do you become successful?" He answered "Make lots of good decisions" He asked again, "How do you make good decisions?""Make lots of bad decisions".

***
The first thing I did learned after all these years, is to listen to my thoughts. For the times I break through, and for the times I failed; I realized the difference.

Am I spending time on making up excuses or am I looking for a solution?

We have to start somewhere, somehow. So, start listening to yourself today, in the midst of economic chaos, or health concerns; reflect and observe your thoughts.

What are you thinking in your mind?

grey is so gay <3!

2009-04-30T00:14:00.005+08:00

It's everywhere. here. and here. and there. and in your face.

It has been my favorite color since feb; and i'm sticking to it for a while.

I have a grey tunic, a grey/black scarf, a new grey shirt that says: California dream!

I'd like to think grey looks gorgeous on tan skin!

maybe I need to figure out a new color by summer.

what would look great on a summer red carpet event?

poker. polka. oprah.

2009-04-28T17:32:00.005+08:00

Johnny Weir shows his [love for] Poker face.

Oprah showing some love for Poker face (no kidding!) while picking her favorite sandwich.

Unrelated news flash:

And my love for Polka dots sandals. And oh, it's comfy too. <3!
In the midst of saving my blistered feet from misery, I discovered my love.

good old skype and my rusty nihongo

2009-04-27T23:20:00.004+08:00

Good old Skype was my best friend since the day Internet went on strike. You should look at Streamyx's mascot: Blue Hyppo. The signs were there from the first day. And now, I'm stuck with a fat blue hyppo with the Balik Kampung tune in my head.

More on Skype the Clark Kent in disguise. Here and here. *chuckles*

Well, nobody can run from virtual OPM (old perverted men).

****

Well, my conversation on Skype with my host father who only speaks Japanese and minimal Engrish goes something like this...

Kengo: sonnakoto naidesuyo hisashiburini hanashi shite bikkuri desu!
Me : ....
Kengo: jyouzuni narimashitane...
Me: ..... *with full determination* Watashi wa Nihongo no benkyo gambarimasu!

Even that didn't sound right. And I'm sure it's not. Rofl.

Now that I looked back, I think he said something about if you continue study Japanese, you will be good! Great, now Japanese sounds like Greek to me. I'm totally ashamed of myself.

So much for appearing offline all this while and pretend I mastered the language. :/

The only thing I've been keeping up on Japanese is my favorite Conan comic- which is in Malay and Japanese drama- seriously HYD doesn't help you much.

And knowing the celebrity names or Japanese dishes by heart doesn't count as knowing the language. Yamashita Tomohisa/Matsumoto Jun or Soba does not help you (at all) to construct a sentence.

Well, at least for now, Oyasuminasai Minasan. Mata ne.

something bigger than yourself

2009-04-21T13:22:00.008+08:00

You know that kind of feeling; you need to go some place and just 'great' because you happened to get stuck? Now add that with a hairstyle gone wrong.

No problem, let's move on!

I just want to talk about my current state of hair. You go to a saloon and you did a body perm and you realize, "Uh oh" Maybe it's not for me. And you're most probably right.

My point: Since college, I have been quite adventurous with my hairstyle after the first dare- well, everything else was history. I went blonde, I had a pixie cut, straightened it for the 100th time, long, medium, copper to chestnut, and the latest perm.

My main point is, we make mistakes. We make the wrong hairstyle choice, we make wrong decisions in life, we go round in circles, doing the same thing and expecting different results. Now that I know a body perm doesn't work well with my hair, I would definitely know better to avoid it the next time.

Also, my question is: When are you going to wake up and change?

Not everybody changes for the better. I changed my hairstyle, it was a tad bit of a disaster, and I learn from it.

Change is uncomfortable. Change is inevitable. Change is for the good.

We want a change in politics, we want a change of lifestyle; but yet a lot of people don't vote, and a lot of people are still doing the same thing.

Well, if that isn't insanity; I really don't know what it is. :/

So, once again, this makes a lot of sense to me, because I can relate something bigger than me; my hair. Haha. This is so Legally Blonde- moment; well at least I think it is.

If You Think You Can, You Can

(This excerpt was taken from Denis Waitley's Seeds of Greatness Treasury)

You can be a total winner, even if you're a beginner
If you think you can you can, if you think you can you can
You can wear the gold medallion, you can ride your own black stallion
If you think you can you can, if you think you can you can

It's not your talent or the gifted birth
It's not your bank book that determines worth
It isn't in your gender or the color of your skin
It's your attitude that lets you win

You can live with "coulds" or "shoulds," or be like Tiger Woods
If you think you can you can, if you think you can you can
Even if you're hesitant, you can be a woman President
If you think you can you can, if you think you can you can

It doesn't matter what you've done before
It makes no difference what the halftime score
It's never over 'til the final gun
So keep on trying and you'll find you've won

Just grab your dream and then believe it
Go out and work, and you'll achieve it
If you think you can, you can
If you think you can, you can

-- Denis Waitley--

Dream Dream Dream

2009-04-17T11:06:00.004+08:00

Slumdog of the year: Susan Boyle.

Never dated, never kissed, 47 years old; and now living the dream she dreamed.

And some say "Why dream? It's not going to come true"

She proved everybody wrong. And this is a great lesson.

Everybody was laughing. And everybody stopped laughing now.

I heard this theory from an ex pirated vcd seller who is obviously successful now:-

If you dream of owning a BMW and people around are contented with a Myvi, do you think they will laugh at you? Of course. And likewise.

You don't need to be rich to think rich.
If you have the dream, and people laugh at you, think of Susan Boyle.
And especially if you're young, I'm sure we can afford to make some mistakes and take criticisms along the way. And then they stop laughing; that would be better than orgasm. ;)

don't dance around it

2009-04-16T12:13:00.004+08:00

I've noticed that it's only human nature that we do things out of emotion, & often influenced to do act the way you act.

So much for logic and facts, don't bother, because when you decide on doing something, buying something, you decide immediately like this:-

I see it. I like it. It feels good. I heard it's good. I buy it/ I do it.

When was the last time you look at the fruits/vege section at the Supermarket, that you went, "Oh, I should get some tomatoes because of the high lycopene in it?"

The power of influence:- Something you read. Something someone told you. An advertisement.

"Do you know tomatoes improve your skin complexion?"
"Hey xxx, I've been drinking tomato juice every morning and I feel great!"

Don't tell me you walk into Starbucks because it's the only place that serves coffee. 7-11 does. Any eating joint does.

But:-

Starbucks is hip. They have cooler names, like Frappuccino, and Caramel Macchiato, free WIFI, nice music.

When you think like that it means when you walk into Starbucks, you're not just buying any drinks, you're buying the concept, the experience.

You see it. You like it. Someone tells you their Caramel Macchiato is to die for. You buy it.

****

Think about your bff, or someone you're really close with.

First impression when they're strangers to you. You despise that cocky look, that horrendous outfit, & a million other pre-judgments that was going on in that head of yours.

Then they introduced themselves. Likewise.

They tell you, "Hey, that's a cool shirt, is it from xxx?"
And you tell them you shop online. "Oh really? I do too! My fav is YYY.com!"
And you go all excited because you meet someone with the same interest.

And long story short, hate to love, strangers to bff!

Oh, for Public Relations major: HAPI--> SIAK!
Oh, how I missed those lectures.

***

It's the same theory used over and over again- used as a persuasion factor- in every decision making you do; it doesn't matter whether you like it or not.

****

You despise something, but because of other factors, you suddenly find yourself compromising, "Yea, maybe it's not so bad".

Case in point: Relationships. Give and take. Word.

****

and the whole point is don't dance around it. it makes perfect sense in my imperfect world. .x

Become a millionaire!

2009-04-15T15:17:00.008+08:00

Now wait a minute!

Probably most of us would end up in a situation like the above pic.

Pfft, you say. How do I not know what to do with money?

Well, I can safely claim, we're not even sure what to do with ourselves after 17 years of "education"? You tell me. Why would you be doing what you're doing now? Still figuring out a way to meet month's end, just enough to cover your basics?

Now, wishing you had a million dollars would sound really great, but I just can't help but pause to think for while that "Why aren't we miilionaires?" Because we're not born one? Because we don't deserve it?

Of course. Not.

Millionaires these days are not born rich, most are high school drop outs, had odd jobs like chicken catcher or construction workers.

But again, "Why aren't we millionaires?"

Just a couple of posts back, I wrote something about goal setting and this post, I would just like to put my message across, by really repeating the question, "Why aren't we millionaires?"

It has a good ring to it.
*Insert name here* The Millionaire.
Sales reps at LV or Prada know you that well to know what's your favorite drink.
You get out from your Lamborghini roadster while everyone at the clubhouse turn and look.

The fantasies can go on and on and on... And you do realize it's not going to happen if you keep doing what you're doing- a 9 to 5 job- being just over broke.

You might have a high paying job enough to get you a new BMW 5 series, but when you think back, do you really exchange your time with the salary you get?

Do you miss those times when in college you get to shop during the weekdays? And you just simply wish, with the money you have now, you would be able to do that?

And George (Amazing) Carlin said this: Most people work just hard enough not to get fired and get paid just enough money not to quit.

***

and our problem is?

We don't change. We are comfortable. It's a different story all together when you wrap yourself in your blanket on a winter night. We think to ourselves, "Nah, I'll be better off like ths; you know the economy is pretty tough; I'm lucky to have a job".

and if you're frustrated over your job now - who wouldn't be, like seriously?

Good. I congratulate you.

Thomas Edison said, Discontent is the first necessity of progress.

Because you will come to a point- when enough IS enough. and frustration leads to action.

Only during tough times, you'll learn; to be a leader, to act inspite of fear. And when you succeed, the satisfaction is ten fold.

****

So, first step to goal setting.

Rule of Thumb #1

Set to be something great; because of what it will make of you to achieve it.

Not because you want 1 million dollars.

Because you will become a millionaire first- mentally and then when you get your 1 million dollars, I'm positively sure you will know what to do with it.

***

Money buys food and care for people in the world, yet it funds nuclear and war.

Subconsciously, most people think that money=evil. There are evil ways to acquire money, but money itself is not evil.

Back to the rule of thumb that is to become in order to make it a reality.

If you're an unhappy little person; and there's a sudden windfall, do you think you will stop being unhappy? Big chances, not. You will continue to be a miserable scrooge that will have nightmare thinking someone is going to rob you of your riches.

If you're a drunkard, you will drink more when you have more money.

Remember, "Becareful of what you wish for?".

****

There this one time I remember a certain conversation took place between two friends, one is a multi millionaire and the friend asked him, "Do you feel insecure when you're rich?".

"No, I worked hard to what I have today, and if I've arrived here today, and done bad things in the past, I'd probably would. But if my riches were taken away from me, I know how to earn them again."

***
.
He has become to what he is today; and that is the true definition of being a millionaire.

Have you wondered why some people can have a few million dollars in the bank account but yet they have no lifestyle?

Lifestyle does not start only when you're rich.

Lifestyle start when you're living life with style.

By becoming refined and living the qualities of such, you can have lifestyle.

****

this is how you should look forward.

2009-04-14T16:29:00.003+08:00

Today I came across a quote from george carlin which says, do whatever's next.

When you're driving in the dark, there's only so far you can see, 200 meters.

When you do that, you'll get to your destination, because all you could see is the light, 200 meters in front of you.

So, bring one more if you have.
Complete one job if you have to.
Just one more.

and in the words of Nike; Just Do it!

Top Of The World

2009-03-31T16:38:00.005+08:00

Yea, that's me.
Not the one sitting, but the 2nd one from the right. ( ;

Baby steps. Baby steps.

Now, let's make it simple, fun and magical.
One day, I'll be on top, claiming my rightful place, on the top of world.
Well done, March. Now, April.

480 thread count, ginger tea and a home

2009-03-25T23:44:00.004+08:00

I've been blessed most of my 20 years of life; no complaints. I get to travel, there's food, nice clothes [although maybe not my fashion sense few years back], king size bed and room by myself, you know, just enough for everything I wanted; of course I didn't want to buy a Bentley then :p

So, here I am today, covered in 480 thread count quilt [cover], sipping ginger tea waiting for time to pass, and somewhere I can feel at home. Hey, who could ask for more? Or the right question is: Am I greedy if I hope for more? Well, maybe, but let me share with you about a wisdom that I came across.

There's a difference between greed and legitimate ambitions.

Legitimate ambitions: Be happy with what you have, while in pursue for better things in life.

Once I got that, now my conscience can rest in peace, literally.

I was going around, doing some goal setting. This time was different, because aside from the goals, I also decided to state WHY I should achieve those. And WHY you ask?

Because of what it will make of me to achieve it.

If helping people to grow will ensure that I achieve my goals, wouldn't that be great? If being happy and attracting lots of opportunity will bring me closer, that's even better!

We always want more. More of this. More of that.

How many of us admit to thinking this way?

"If I have more money, I will be able to..."
"If I have more time, I would..."

Haha. Hands down!

If you were to become more efficient, would your boss promote you? If you were to become more responsible, would you be the one that your boss think of first when he decides to give a raise?

Key: Is to become to achieve those goals. Simple. and Wow.

So set a goal to become a millionaire; for what it will make of you to achieve it. If you set a goal, you move forward and not only you will achieve it but what it make of you in the process.

Leave a comment if you want next post to be on tips for goal setting. :)

going loco on lomo

2009-03-23T17:37:00.004+08:00

I'm not supposed to be chirpy on Monday, apparently it overflowed from last Friday. But really, gay is good. ;)

Saturday; I decided on a trip in June. Too excited to describe how elated I am. We're talking about one of the many places I wanted to go since I was 12. And I will be paying for this trip- well almost.

Sunday; I decided to become a Chairman and I'm set to build my Presidents' team. Super excited about that too. Ask me about it.

Monday; 3 months to the trip, I decided to go loco on lomo; I'll be joining the artsy fartsy lomo group by getting my own. :) I can't wait to take pictures like her.

Cheers to a great week!

another birthday

2009-03-22T15:20:00.006+08:00

Happy Birthday to David Choi and all March 22nd birthday boys and girls.

lemon's morning mental delights

2009-03-20T09:27:00.006+08:00

Starting today onwards, I hereby add another zesty and quirky nick to my already fabulous "Uptown life", and I shall be known as Lemon, a bright yellow fruit with sour taste that grows on trees in warm countries. So, so apt. Thank you sheep-pie!

Ah, and yes, a very good morning to you and you and you. I just realized those endorphins are no joke, may be passed off as "hyper", but what a good day to start. I'm just extra chirpy, so deal with it.

It's refreshing to open up my twitter page and check out what people are up to.

On the other side of the globe, Kina and David are driving down to San Diego for a gig, while John Mayer thinks out loud about 2 hours ago: 20s: coming into who you are. 30s: coming into who you are being. So true. so true. And Wes is enjoying SF Chinatown.

Okay, before anyone thinks I'm a potential stalker, I better stop here.

TGIF today! Looking forward to Friday, Saturday, Sunday. Feels like Heaven but short lived; the irony of it. So, I'm charged up to bring my goal setting to a new level- the power of visualization. Sounds yummy, really. Prolly when I'm done with it, I'll show you.

Mae-Tisbury Lane

Listen!

That's all she wants to know.

Bubbye! I'll catch up with you on the other side (of the week). :)

if i were a boy

2009-03-18T16:51:00.006+08:00

A lighter post. This has nothing to do with the song, just wishful thinking, "Why is that only guys are given the privilege to sweep girls off their feet (most of the time)?"

You think about "Will you marry me?" proposals, Valentine's, romantic getaway, opening doors, jacket over puddle, okay, you get the drift.

The whole idea just screams, "Of course, a guy should do all the above!"What a bummer. I like the action part, the part where you go, Where is the best place to propose to her (him)?

Like in Friends when Phoebe accidentally exposed her fiance, Mike, when he was about to propose every single time, the ring in the desert, the proposal on the LED screen during the Knicks' game.

It just proves that guys do run out of creative ideas, and most of them don't know this; the best proposal is always the kneeling down and saying those four words, when they least expect it. *shrugs*

Since we're on the Phoebe topic, I can't help but laugh silently since I can't laugh out loud when I remembered when she changed her name into "Princess Consuela Bananahammock", and her husband retaliated by changing his name into "Crap Bag". Hah!

But seriously, tell me your favorite proposal- real life and also on screen? :)

***

Anouncements!

Mrs. Cris is planning to go pilot-husband-search so if you are one, look for her here this Sunday with a ring in a hot air balloon- like maybe fly her somewhere, preferably Spain, or South America.

***

I just saw this online and fell in love with this idea. Or maybe have an engagement party too! I wonder how many said their "I do(s)" in front of the biggest and grandest Christmas tree in the world? It's so Home Alone. And *snaps* our honeymoon here, in the enigmatic Lost City of Incas (so they say), and stay in the best hotel, as we slowly sip our Moet Chandon with fondue strawberry.

For other potential special occasions' venues: 20 best views in the world.

***
now you wouldn't want this to happen.

a farmer, a soldier, and an athlete

2009-03-17T11:09:00.004+08:00

My goal setting venture has begun. A long term range, a short term, 1 year to 10 years, the whole nine yards. I've never come to terms with the new year "resolutions", where nothing is ever resolved, nothing achieved, and by end of the year, even the piece of paper you wrote on, or the little mental note you make; oh, evaporates into nothingness.

This year will end, the next year is coming and the next one passes, well, you get the drift.

This time, it's a whole lot different. Let me give you this powerful question/statement that I've come across: What person I have to become to get what I want?

We all want things in life, the big car, a big house, and lots of greens. But we keep doing what we do, circling, and circling, and expecting different results. Now, that's insanity. It's like hoping to hit jackpot when you don't buy a ticket.

And so, I get negative feedback on dreams. Yes, dream is wonderful, they say. But it's reality. It doesn't work.

Unless you grow money on trees.
Unless you happen to marry a rich guy.

There's a lot more from where that came from.

Funny why people think money is the root of all evil. There are some evil ways to acquire money and likewise. You resent money, but at the same time you need money.

Now, there's a difference between greed and legitimate ambitions.

Now, tell me, do you think you deserve to have the things you want? You work hard, you try to save money; to pamper yourself, to give yourself a better life!

Now, you're saying I want, but I can't?

If you think you deserve it, try setting those goals for what if will make of you to achieve them, instead just wishing for money to fall off the skies.

If you want to be smarter, try reading one book a week.
If you want to be rich, pay yourself first- save before you start spending.

Why do you think rich people are rich? And smart people are smart?

Descartes said, "I think, therefore I am."

If you think like a rich person, you will be one.
If you think like a smart person, you'll probably read more.

The biggest value in life is not what you get, it's what you become.

How do I start?

1) Be a farmer.

Sow the seeds, be patient, invest in time, money, effort in order to harvest. Read more if you have to, go for classes to improve your skills, learn a new language etc.

2) Be a soldier.

Adopt a Yes Sir attitude.
Do you ask Why? If your General assigns you to a task?

3) Be an athlete

You aspire to run for a marathon.
So stick to that. Don't go playing badminton one day, tennis the next, and football. Commit to one for a while, and finish the race. Once you start the race, finish it.

spring called and invited the sun

2009-03-11T11:21:00.004+08:00

it was a beautiful morning today.

on the couch; waiting for my ride to work.

great magazines for day dreamers like me. ;)

and we laugh,
we cry, and we live our lives,
and we love, and we love and we love,
and it comes back to us. -kina grannis-