A Time For Everything

Drink of the year 2008

2008-12-17T16:41:00.007+08:00

My first and last health drink of 2008...

Oxygenated Water! and i got it for free!

Tuesday with Aunt

2008-12-06T13:15:00.023+08:00

If you have younger children, cousins, nephews or nieces, what is one thing you would like to know from them? Well, having spent time with them on occasional bonding, observing them and watch them grow, have you ever wondered what do THEY observed of you? Haha.. its evaluation time! As for me, I had a good time reading what their little minds would think of their aunt. The outcome was both freaky and funny, and for some, fulfilling.

The highlights for the children were nonetheless the Singapore Flyer and The Esplanade. As usual, they were initially “cool” about everything that was planned for them. But as the anticipation grew, they could no longer hold their excitement...

“Oh.. i’m so scared of heights!” one exclaimed even before stepping into the capsule.
“I haven’t been into the flyer before!” the youngest of them said.
“Are we going in yet?” my nephew was too excited to wait any longer.
“Wait, i need to go to the toilet first!” one was afraid of being left behind.

After a simple lunch, we adjourned to the ticket counters and made our way to the Flyer. The moment we stepped into the capsule, the squeal of excitement ceased.

Although it was momentary, they became quietened and sat on the bench. But as soon as our capsule reached its height, they were busking again, busy taking photos, challenging their guts by standing or sitting nearest to the edge, walking around and looking everywhere in awe of the beautiful landscape.

“Did you all enjoy taking the flyer?”
“YES! We wish to take it again!”

Next, we went to the Library at the Esplanade. Libraries are no new places for them. Very quickly, they made a bee line for the computers and register as members for themselves. I had a moment with the youngest, sitting by the window to read.

When she was done with reading, she hopped down from the window and was searching for something. “Foong-yi, i found something for you” I was amazed at how quickly she found a book for me. When i looked at the title, i nearly fell from the window!

Hmm... was she expecting me to kiss her?

After a tour at the library, we took a break at a cafe. Time for evaluation! I handed out papers for them to write and doodle. I threw them a question “If there is one thing you would describe of me, what would it be and why?” “Aw... thats difficult!” they all protested all at once. “Alright then, name a fruit or an animal that best describes me, and why you pick that” i tried to help them along.

The end results were hilarious!

Banana. “Because you look slender and long (tall) just like it” Alright, i take that as a compliment.

Durian. “You look stern on the outside but sweet and soft inside” Soft..? i attribute that to gentleness?

Apple. “Cos you are cute like an apple!” the youngest of them will always have something good to offer.

Pear. “Hmm... i dunno.. you look like one” my nephew, a guy, a visual being.

Lioness. “Cos...” Queen of the jungle i thought “... you looked stern.”

I felt they could do better than that and so i asked again. “ Alright, draw one thing that you enjoyed the most today”

Some enjoyed taking the Singapore Flyer..

one enjoyed the company..

do i assumed my nephew saw an imaginary Loch Ness peering from the river?!

It was a fun and lovely Tuesday. Seeing my nephew and nieces growing at different states of their lives, with one surprise after another, brings joy and comfort. Last but not the least, one thing they have asked of me “I wish Foong-yi will take us out again”.

(Despite looking stern, they enjoyed my company still, plus point. But what i have yet to figure out is the visual combination of a banana and a pear... hmm...)

Tues 2 Dec

2008-12-01T23:21:00.000+08:00

"Whats up on Tuesday 2 Dec that you look forward to?"

Well, nothing spectacular.. i just took leave and decided to bring my nephew and nieces out for a day of sf, espl and marina..

"Oh wow... remember to take lots of photos"

Ok, will try.. ;)

August Dive

2008-09-11T23:16:00.003+08:00

I finally made it! My long awaited dream... to become an Advance Diver! Not a big deal for some, but for someone who fear depth and darkness, its a great deal of challenge.

Along with the dives, I had a whole lot of first experiences, and for some, eye-opening.

1st time Night Dive
1st time Deep Dive
1st time i wrote my name spelled backward underwater
1st time i bunk with different nationalities of both genders

It seemed like a long journey from home to Palau Dayang till we stopped over for toilet break when i had my first reward, Ramley burger! That tiresome journey diminished the moment i sunk my teeth in the wholesome goodness, its simply yummy! (warning: not the Ramley at some bazaar in Singapore, it had to be specifically in Mersing).

Upon arrival, we were directed to our resorts, or “cave at its best” as one American quoted. “Do i understand that we, as in all of us including the guys and gals, are bunking altogether?!” this was bothering me. Yes, its the first time that i bunk with different nationals. Its kinda eye-opening seeing different people of different nationals’ sleeping-habits. The Americans wore boxers and went topless though the room is air-conditioned. Dutch sleeps in their jeans. French had the most unusual outfit for sleeping, a T over a pair of never-seen-before white tight shorts... I don't know about you, but why would anyone be sleeping in a super tight-fitting short shorts? Never mind that, “Goodnite everyone” and tucked myself to bed.

Next morning, i had the chance to watch the sunrise while brushing my teeth in the open. From a tint of yellow hue to its magnificent full bloom in golden glow... awesome! I stopped to watch the movement, rising gradually, forgotten my toothpaste watering down my neck.

We had our first dive after breakfast. It was a leisure dive, casually moving underwater, like i’m flying over the seabed. Next was our Nagivation Dive where we had to complete a square navigation using a compass. Ok, at least I was not lost underwater, managed to find back the right team after 10 complete finning at all 4 sides.

Finally, i had to come to term with my anxiety, Night Dive. Fear of the unseen, imagine dangling mid way down dark water, not knowing where you are heading, with the notion of “something” lurking nearby? “You can see much more than what day-dive offers, even at the same dive spot” my dive master assured us. I just gave a spastic smile.

“Ready? Descend!” The initial descend was almost pitch dark despite my expensive torch beaming like a lazar. It was like 90% darkness? Then 80%, 75%, 70%, 69% and so on... till i gained almost full sight. I was so proud of my beamer. It was the most powerful torch among all my divers’ including my instructor’s! While we went flying over the seabed, we tried to look calm and steady while most of the time, our eyes were darting at everything we could possibly see which was nothing much. Sure, i believe there should be a lot more marine to see at night if we hadn’t been too focused on where we were flying. When i held up my torch, it beamed the farthest. Gradually, the seabed looked like a stage with all the lights spotting on it and we the divers were the performers, dancing gracefully for the marine! When we ascend, we were welcomed by the starry night! The dark blanket over our heads was filled with sparkly diamonds! All of different sizes! I was so in awe at the sky... so beautiful! Never have i seen such a starry starry night back home! So, that was night dive for me, seeing more up in the sky than underwater.

Next day, was Deep Dive. “We’ll go slow right?” i was concerned about my ears as i did not managed to equalize at a certain level yesterday. But this time, i made sure i pop my ear-drums at every minute. Surprisingly, i like deep dive more. We had this experiment done underwater. Our instructor wanted us to write our names spelled backward. This is to test our reaction under more than 20m deep. Reason being deep diving may take you deep enough to feel the first mild effects of nitrogen narcosis, which may cause poor judgement and slow thinking. Anyway, when we hit the ground at abt 30m, we held one another’s arms to ensure safety and took turns to write our names. Time was recorded. When we ascend, our instructor gave us a de-brief. “Esther, you took 5 seconds to finish writing your name underwater but 7 seconds to re-write when onboard! How strange?” The team concluded that i think better underwater!

Next was Drift Dive. Supposedly a relaxing dive due to the current that will carry you along. Unfortunately for me, i was carried too far ahead of my instructor. Many times, i had to fin back to rejoin the line at the back. And every time i fin back, my team mates would look at me and signal “Hey, its you again! To the back pls...”

“Hey, we made it! We are finally Advance Divers!” my friend gave me a ‘hi-five’. We thought again, “It wasn’t so bad after all, isn't it?” Yeah, we both had a smirk on our lined-faced (lined caused by constant pressing of our mask on our face). No big deal for some, but for us, it was worth to call for a celebration!

*Ps: Incase you wonder, we saw turtle, sea-urchins, lizard fish, bump heads, moray eel, nudis, parrot fish, black/white spotted clown fish, a school of barracudas, plenty of corals and our bunk mates from other teams while diving.

July 2008

2008-08-07T22:52:00.000+08:00

“Hey, you haven’t been blogging! When are you writing again? I follow up you know?” this was like a brick that hit me hard!

I know, i’m a week behind time. Suppose to post at least an article a month and even then, time beats me! No excuses, absolutely! I know, i am not forgiven! But i’m thankful for those of you who have been really patient with me. Thank you.

Well, July had been a reading month for me, 3 books in a row! Its no joke for a non-bookworm like myself. But i will try to accomplish them during these few weeks.

Introducing ‘STRIPPED’ by Brian Freeman, ‘MRS KENNEDY’ by Barbara Leaming and ‘A WAY OF BEING FREE’ by Ben Okri. My lovely colleague one day shoved ‘STRIPPED’ to me, “Its a page turner, you should have it”. Well, i took a peek at it and WOW... i was dumb-founded at the first chapter! “I think Esther will burn this book after she’s done with it!” one said. Hahaha! To that, well, i’m not done with it yet so i cannot comment on that. Anyway, enough of some explicit descriptive, i went on to ‘Mrs Kennedy’ for a switch of environment, for a while. I was reading about her life from childhood abuse to where she was now. She’s quite a classic, a struggling beauty of her time. Like an open gossip, peeping into the life of someone so private, a 425 pages of life journal. Wonder if i ever will reach to the end? ‘A Way of Being Free’ was the saviour of my blog! I love the poetry flow of language, its somewhat ambiguous yet so intense and so full of flavour! For once in a long time, i was hooked to a book! Unbelievable! Thanks to the sender who came to my rescue. And i’m sure she’s most delighted i helped save her sagging shelves. More books to come?

Seriously, i will try to finish all 3 of them; 3 of different characters of story. For these few weeks, perhaps i should chat less and blog more?

Amazing Combination

2008-06-16T22:46:00.000+08:00

Teaming up with various combination of people can be really fun! The outcome? For my case, was effective!

Mr Talented: tall, friendly, approachable, thrifty
Mr Booster: fit, energetic, positive, faithful
Mr Quiet: quiet, accommodating, obedient
Ms Bubble: young, bubbly, creative, quick-thinker
Ms Clarity: fair, patient, mathematical, task-oriented
Ms Timer: meticulous, organized, (a little) perceptive?

Lets start with Ms Timer. She is one who loves to plan. Because she hates to rush, she will prepare her plan-sheets in advance, making sure everybody knows what was happening. Also, because she is a little imaginative, she tends to perceive what could possibly happen, thus she will try to convince the team into her idea. However, because she thinks she is perceptive, she gets upset when her team disagree with her, as she was concerned that the probability might happen “See, I knew it. If we had done that, this wouldn’t have happen” her occasional quote so far.

Next, our Mr Talented. He is adaptive and has leadership skill. And because he is approachable and timely chivalrous, he is well-liked among some ladies, a drawing factor. His talent in instrumental skill brings so much convenience to the team. Whenever there was a stand-still moment, all you need is him to strum the strings to break the stillness. Plus the fact that he is adaptive, he can play where and when you request of him. Wonderful isn’t it?

Mr Booster. He literally lives up to this name, emotionally, spiritually and physically. And because he is physically fit, he could dash from one place to another, sometimes multi-tasking, and never look weary. He has such a positive and possible attitude, you may begin to doubt if this is reality? A man of faith indeed! He loves to encourage. Whenever he can, he would spur the team by reminding us of our strength. An emotional pillar to the team.

Ms Bubble. She is young and full of ideas! Very creative and thoughtful. She’s always oozing with ideas... you wonder where did she get that energy? When all of us were brain-dead at the end of work week, she will be left standing with her creativity. Kudos to her! And because she has so many ideas, sometimes I wish I could stretch the day longer so that all these ideas can come to pass. So many ways, so little time. An added credential team player.

Ms Clarity. Sensible, reliable, systematic. With her around, you need not worry about calculations, such as how should the ratio telly when there were so many request; who to put on waiting list, who to move up to registration list; how to group the people so that there is no trace of unbalance. And because she is not bias, you can trust that she takes no “bribery” whoever request for specific grouping system. With her around, you can be proud of a clean record. Thumbs up for her!

Mr Quiet. Well, the name says it all. I attribute this characteristic for being new to the team? And probably new to organizing events? But he was most humble, willing to corporate and stayed with the team to the end. Although he seemed uncertain, he was willing to learn and listen to others.

Because of this amazing combination, the differences complimented one another. It was very encouraging to see various talents coming together to put forth a “show” that serves good to others.

Pointers I see of this team:
1) Able to appreciate one another’s strength instead of being jealous
2) Able to bring out the best in one another
3) Learning to be firm and decisive, humble and gentle
4) Never lacking in encouragement

Many things I have learnt from this short period of time. I truly enjoyed myself, never felt so satisfied in so many events! Its amazing how despite our differences, we brought us together!

Bon Appetite! (part 2)

2008-06-07T14:57:00.000+08:00

Arriving at the Brit’s home, the first to greet me was Peter, her home-grown long-eared rodent. “Its so cute!” It was caged near the entrance. So my friend opened the cage-door, and pull it out by its ears, gently. “Oh.. wouldn’t it hurt?” “But this is the way rabbits are held” he seemed confident. I was drawn to the little furry, defenseless mammal, crouching in the arms of a man until I went forward to touch it, it hopped from his arm to under the dinning table! “Quick, catch it!” A cosy home now ran into a frantic chase! At last, caught it! and back to the cage where he probably feel safer. “Phew! That was close!” We had a good laugh!

I went to the kitchen to check on the host. She was completely into her work, totally oblivious of us chasing after Peter. She was preparing the side dishes, I saw blanched cauliflowers, mashed carrots and turnip (this is her home recipe), bangers and the oven was oozing with... its a whole roasted chicken! “Need any help?” “Yes please, just add some salt to the cauliflowers to taste” That was easy. I hold the dish and presented it on the table which was already laid with cutlery, neatly. Fork and knife by the sides, dessert-spoon above the plate, wine glasses standing tall by its side.

“Its ready!” This was what we were looking forward. A proper English dinner by our dear friend from Brit. “This is how we do at dinner” She begin to share how Brits should be eating, cutting, bringing the food to themselves by the fork and other protocols at a dinner. It was eye-opening for us yellow-skinned urbanites. She then cut the chicken and started to distribute food around. After saying Grace, dinner commenced. Clink! We drank a toast to our friend “Cheers to the Brits!”

I started with the mash... it was so creamy! She passed me the gravy and said it should go with the mashed potato. Indeed, the gravy enhanced the flavour and smoothness. “You know, I added almost half a tub of butter to this” Half a tub? How big was the tub?? Nah... I love the mash alright! It was what it matters! Thumbs up for a start.

I went on to the roasted potato and pumpkin chunks. The parts where it burnt, was a hit! Especially the pumpkins. It was genuinely sweet and sticky I could have it for dessert instead. It was perfect to have them with the roasted chicken. “Its the first time I did a whole chicken” Well done Brit! The best part of it was the skin, soft and slightly crispy. It was a tasty game.

The bangers and vegetables completed the meal, but hold! We have a big surprise waiting in the fridge! “Time for dessert” She seemed thrill. And there, we were presented a mega double-tiers Victoria Sponge, oozing with goodness of cream in between. It was humongous! It was more than 20cm in diameter, about 10cm tall.

The top was layered with generous serving of chocolate icing, in wavy design. Then a thick chocolate sponge, followed by the cream. This cream was no ordinary confectionery, it was whip with icing I believe? I could feel the tiny crisp in it. Lastly, another layer of chocolate sponge as thick as the first. The host had to stand cutting the cake. “Here’s one for you”, we held our plates for her.

And there, sitting before me, a triangular piece of chocolate Victoria sponge. As it was chilled, the icing resembled a chocolate bar, wrapped around a sponge. Combined the icing and sponge, it tasted like brownie with chilled chocolate. But when I came to the middle portion, I realized I had the cream of the crop! The soft creamy goodness was like ice cream that never melts! Now I know why there were so much of the in-between... Besides the cake, we had English tea as well. It was a soothing way to end the course. Once again, big thanks to the Brit!

(The Victoria Sponge was home-baked, courtesy of the Brit. Recipe anyone?)

Bon Appetite! (part 1)

2008-06-06T11:28:00.000+08:00

Yes, I love home-cook, whatever it may be, I love them all!

On Saturday, I had the privilege to be invited by friends to their lovely homes for home-cook tasting. Afternoon was an European fare. Evening was authentic British delights.

My friends invited me to their son’s one year birthday brunch. After a shopping spree to get a gift for the birthday boy, I was on my way to the feast.

Arriving at the door step of my friends’ home, I could smell the aroma of bread, fresh from the oven. “Hey, Esther is here”, the baby’s Mum greeted me at the door. I was one of the early birds.

It was ciabattas that was dished out. Like a big fluffy pillow, soft and spongy, lazily lying on a wooden board, golden surface with a light sheen. My eyes followed through till I came to the table of a hearty fare. There were ratatouille, pizza, mash potato, chicken, quiche... “Chilli-corn is on the way”, the chef had a busy morning.

“Shall we begin?” I found a good seat by the table and helped myself to everything except for their “backup plan”. The ratatouille looked mellowed, but the bright capsicums added some life to the dish. The moment I tasted it, I knew I have under-estimated it... “Pardon me but you really tasted fantastic!!” This dish was prepared the night before, left in the fridge and was heated on that day. Every bit of the squash was full and rich in flavour. Soft but not marshy. The juice of every squash complimented one another. With merely a little herbs and salt, this mix of squash tasted sweet and juicy.

Next, I moved on to the chicken. I love the peppered aroma. I took a bite on its tenderness and realized the taste of ratatouille was so overwhelm, I could not sense the chicken! Perhaps the chicken needed more time to marinate? Or perhaps I should have started on the chicken first?

The ciabatta waited long. From a lazy big slap of pillow, it now turned into golden square blocks ready to be served. It was soft and smooth to touch. Smell of oven bread and a little herbs. I pinched the side and dipped it into tomato puree mix. Nice! Then I decided to do without the sauce. Nicer!! Its chewy and soft at the same time. Feel so homely at every bite!

The next wonderful discovery was the ham quiche. The huge indents on its edge of the crust, like huge finger prints, gave it away. It was easy to cut into triangles. The texture looked firm, like those of almond jelly, if you know what i mean. It has a rich flavour of egg and cheese. Some of the stripes of ham were slightly crisp which gave this quiche an additional credit. When I was done with it, I could not leave my eyes off the smaller quiches, I wanted to pack it home!

The drinks came as a pleasant surprise. The lemon-grass was crashed and squeezed, its juice was mixed with sweetening, added some crushed ice and water. It was totally delightful! Instant thirst quencher with a lovely fragrance. I had to have a few more cups in such a hot weather.

The rest of the dish was unforgettable. I had to remind myself not to hurt my belly since i have another feast in the evening.

“Thanks for your hospitality. I have to go to my friend’s house now”. I bid my friends farewell and head on to the Brits.

(About the ciabattas, the touch and smell of it is so heavenly you just wanted to lay your head on it like you would on a pillow! Yes, its THAT soft and fluffy! I would love to have one for myself, lying my head and chew on it at the same time!)

A Day of Script, Wake & Beach

2008-05-20T19:35:00.001+08:00

April 26 seemed like an ordinary day for many. But for me, it was rather fruitful.

Morning at about 9am, I have agreed to help a couple-friends to complete their video shoot for their wedding clips. After breakfast, we adjourned to Kallang River along Rochor to have the video done. They needed the natural light for the shoot, which hence we will be scorched under the fierce sun. Like any professional shooting, each take will be repeated umpteen times till satisfaction. The couples were well prepared and fully equipped. There were gigantic prints of scripts! And this supposedly hidden microphone, despite of its size, picks up sound effectively. “Mic test, 1,2,3... Mic test 1,2,3...” sounds good. They positioned me, facing the sun, against the Singapore Flyer. Take one, action! The camera started to pan... then stopped at where I stood. “Begin!” the director whispered. I was nervous but managed to read from the huge prints displayed next to the camera. “Cut! Well done. Let’s try again” And so it went on for hours. The fun thing about video clips is watching the N.G; whenever we forgot our simple lines we rolled our eyes; when we were about to finish the last bit, cuckoos were heard from the background or the roaring cheers from the dragonboats... oh well, I guess it happens.

Time to wrap up. We had sometime to chill out at a cafe when I received two beeps, both telling me that they were not able to make it for wakeboarding. Great, now we were down with 2 people. But the weather proves to be a great day to miss out on the action. The weather-man had announced it will shower but look, the sun was victorious!

After they sent me home, my wakeboarding friend came to pick me up. He came in a mercedes vintage sedan, quite a contra to the boyish beach-boy ragged-look of the driver. “Yoh!” his usual grin. “Hi, we gotto head to Yishun to pick up the rest now,” I got to interrupt before, I imagine, he starts to rap.

The weather was indeed perfect! I have to repeat this: it was suppose to pour but lo and behold, other than seeing some dense clouds approaching, it did NOT rain! Thank God!!

We had two boats to ourselves, four passengers to each boat which turned out that we had more boat time! Most of us withstood the ski and were able to sustain the stance. We had 2 hours of splashing good time!

Then a friend called from Sentosa. An arrangement was made to watch jazz concert. So off we went, zoomed in two cars to the island that never sleeps.

After dinner and seeing the concert, we took a stroll along the cool breezy beach. Nice!!

I like the impromptu arrangement, unexpected but pleasantly surprised (although I’m not the sort who appreciate surprises) And just as I wish for another fruitful outing, another arrangement was made for the following weekend! Oh wow! I could not be asking for more...

(Back to the video clips, the big day for our appearance on national silver screen would be in June, hahaha! So stay tuned!)

Welcome back!

2008-05-19T21:55:00.000+08:00

Ok ok... I was MIA since late February, with legitimate excuses; busy with work, tiredness, meeting new people and of course, hanging out with them and getting to know them better.

I must thank one of my mentors (she does not know I see her as one). In her recent letter to me when she found me in Facebook, that line which was aptly written “I enjoyed your blog. You write really well, Esther. How come I never knew???” My mentor, one whom I look up to, said that to me? It spurs me alright! I think such assurance delivers a sheer sense of confidence to anyone.

Yes, many things have happened in March and April, natural disasters to name a few. Having learnt and felt for the many things that happened recently, I guess it’s natural that I would take a break from blogging for a while, taking time out to ponder, catching the news and hoping for the best to happen.

Many companies are putting effort together to raise funds for the disaster-affected countries. One of them, with no name mentioned, implemented a scheme, a-dollar-for-a-dollar scheme, in which case where a donor gives $100, this company will double the fund. Sounds legitimate for a bank?

It’s heart-warming to see countries coming together to help one another instead. Does it have to take an “uncontrollable wrath” to display humanity? Isn’t it great when acts of humanity is shown on a regular basis, unseen?

The lame line revived!

2008-02-18T20:01:00.000+08:00

Semi-formal. No t-shirts and jeans. Ladies, no pants. Now, whats there left in my wardrobe? Ah-ha, pretty blouses and skirts. "Wear dresses" echoed in my head "Nah.. its SEMI-formal, not formal" i was a little hesitant. But what should i match with this blue skirt? Ah... whack it! I shall heed the still small voice. I took my knee-length dress; red, black and white twirly prints. Perfect!

I was looking forward to dinning in a Mississippi Steamboat of the 1800's... the replica, of course. In my previous experience at the other events, its always the girl who will approach the guys instead. "Hi, my name is..." the lame old lines? Haha.. What has the world become! I decided to let it passed.

I saw it from afar, the nostalgic ferry waiting by the dock. It has a gigantic wheel that kept turning. I went nearer, it was an awesome vessel! Gracefully, i tried to slow down on a slight slope that stretched to the door. There, an anticipating line of people, queuing for the registration desk. I tried to peep into the restaurant, the tables were set, there were already some people standing inside. Then came two little angels! Yes, i meant it literally! These two winged-children, dressed in white satin with white feathery holly, were quite an attraction! The boy angel came forward, shyly he passed me a rose. "Oh thanks! You are so sweet!" he blushed, looking down and toddled into the crowd. That was the first surprise.

It did not take long before it was my turn to register my name and collect the wine voucher. Now, here came the second surprise. I walked towards the foyer in the restaurant, and in less than 5 seconds, this gentleman came. "Hi, my name is..." Wow! I thought that was suppose to be my line! I found out that he was one of the organisers. Ok, maybe he was trying to warm up the guest. But still, that sure was a start of a good impression. "Hey, we need you here..." a voice came from behind him. "Sorry, i gotto excuse myself" he was extremely polite. I smiled to acknowledge his dismissal (wow! that was classic!)

Then, the third surprise. "Hi, my name is..." I turned around, and there stood this guy with his hand extended for a welcome. This time, i got my name printed on a sticker pasted on my shoulder. "Hi, i'm Esther" showing him my name as well. A conversation took place and it was well enough to last till almost all the guest have arrived. We parted to take our seats at our assigned tables.

While waiting at the buffet, there was even time to catch up with an old friend. He later introduced his friend who was also in the queue. The then two persons' conversation became three. Thanks to pal, i would be left stranded in a queue if not for this.

Dinner was a Mexican spread. Yummy! My favourite being the Fajitas. Simple mixed of marinated meat and vegetables wrapped in tortillas with salsa. "Esto Es Delicioso, Mis Amigos!" was the sound in my soul! If i have to sing praises, it had to be in Mexican that day!

After dinner, came the "social rotations". There were 3 rounds. All went well. The guys were great. They were smiley, polite, some were funny, some even brought us drinks! I do not remember a moment of awkwardness. Everyone seemed spontaneous.

Time for the performing talk-show. She has a great voice for jazz. The lyrics were changed to suit the occassion, it was hilarious. She could have passed off as a stand-up comedian if not for the occasional explicit vocal? Oh well...

We ended the entire evening with praise and worship. We exchanged contacts, took a quick tour around the lovely boat, had a few snapshots, and went our seperate ways.

The breeze was exceptionally soothing and comforting. I may not know if it was the surprising turn out, the sumptuous spread, or the wine. But it was a sheer delight to see and experience a good change. Gone are the folded-arms, staying aloof and reserved, huddle among the same, watching from a distance. It was a welcome hand, cordial approach and open conversation, willing to step out of the usual zone, up close and personal exchange.

Could it be the work of my dress? I certainly not hope so. But incase it was, i would have to thank the still small voice who could be reading this. Gracias Amigo!

(Event was held on Sat 16 Feb 08)

Valentine's bumps

2008-02-13T23:44:00.000+08:00

"Love looks not with the eyes, but with the mind;
and therefore is winged Cupid painted blind."
- William Shakespeare, A Midsummer Night's Dream.

"Is that the reason why some cupids have bumps on their heads?
Because they may have flown to the walls?" - anonymous ;)

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"What is in a name?
That which we call a rose by any other name would smell as sweet."
- William Shakespeare, Romeo and Juliet

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"The course of true love never did run smooth".
- William Shakespeare

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Behind Time

2008-02-10T23:03:00.000+08:00

How is it like if you live behind time? Will you be forgotten? What about 16 hours behind our local time? Haha... this can only happen when you are away. Or how about going overseas when everybody else had to start work? Would you not look forward to the week then?

I jot this on Sunday 11.30pm, last day and last moment to savor my CNY holidays. Feeling a little melancholy, i had to pack and get ready for an avalanche of battle that will resumed tomorrow. Don't you just love working!!!!!

This CNY, i managed the break my own record in Messenger. I was chatting in the wee hours of the day! Something i have never done before. For some instance, it was like a maranthon! But i enjoyed it very much. Chatting in the wee hours of the day, when everybody else is asleep, cool weather, even the air seems calm. The night slow you down to reflect on the day's event, the many things that happened around you and in you, its the moment you chew on your thoughts and perhaps to share them with your friends?

I am grateful for the ones "listening" via my messenger most of the time. Even by just being there, you will drop by. So for that, big thanks!

Tomorrow will be the start of battle. With work immersed into your life, it consumed all of your energy and time. By the end of the work day, you are left with your skeleton, struggling your way home only to plonk yourself down on the charger (bed) and get yourself fully charged up for the next day again (when you have enough sleep that is). And this pattern will go on for the entire week, then months... till the next public holiday comes, or better still, a long public holiday!

I am also thankful for hillsongs, by listening to STILL, it brings me so much comfort (and sometimes tears), its one of my solace in the midst of the battle day, or battle to come. May the Lord grant us strength and grace as we face the day of work and more work! Ahhhhh.... men!

Lets Loh-Hei!!!

2008-02-03T00:40:00.000+08:00

It was slight drizzle on Saturday around 5pm. My friend and his "troupe" were on their way to have dinner at my beloved sister's zhi-cha stall. She was overwhlemed!

Before hand, we had a discussion. "Do you think below $15 per pax would be sufficient?" I was trying to be the middle-woman. "Its more than enough! Why? Are your friends huge eaters??" On one hand, i was concerned that the dishes may not be enough, and on the other, i did not want my sister to oblige into charging us lesser just because i am her younger sister. It had to be fair.

So, there came about 18 diners, all chatting and wondering. After a while of wait, we were all seated at 2 tables. The yu-sheng came first. We hold our chop-sticks, took our positions, "Ready.. Get set.. GO!" and all of us tossing the sashimi salad up and up we go! Yes, the higher you toss, the better. At each toss, we will say some well-wishes, "Hope the stock market doesn't crash!" "Big Bonus for everyone this year!" "Be at the top condition for our health and beauty!"... You can say anything that edifies and bless someone at the table. Of course, the higher we toss, the more food will scatter around the table... It was a colourful mess!

We repeated the motion for over 1 minute. Then when its about done, we sat back down and started to scope from the mess that's left on the plate. It tasted wonderful! Great for the taste and sweet for the soul!

Gradually, the main dishes started zooming from behind us. Then the great bowl of staple appear. It was almost like a hill! "Wow... so much?" i heard my friend muttered.

We ate and chat and ate and chat... then came the cocktail which was on the house. "Thats nice of your sis", one turned to me said. I felt so warm within.

Time to get the bill. "So cheap? You sure your sister did not under quote us?" Nope, i did not think so. I thought she added more on the plates and definitely much more in the bowl...! The feedback i received from my friends on the food is that they loved the cereal prawns, the prawn-paste chicken wings with sweet-n-sour sauce (this was my sister's lastest invention!), yam-ring among other dishes.

Well, do feel free to pass the word around to your friends and contacts about her stall. This is one way to bless her in return. Words of mouth travel fast and far.

We had drinks again at mac which was across the road. I realised this has became a "practice"; after a gathering at one location, we will move on to another place for the same gathering. And like it or not, it seems like a "B'rians-tradition"... i guess this is what makes us unique?

You game for it?

2008-01-27T00:04:00.000+08:00

Its boardgame time on friday night.

"Saboteer" its the name. A group of 6 to 7 people is a comfortable group size. This game involved rewards, the most gold you collect, you are the winner. There are basically two teams; the miner and the saboteer. The job of the miners are to build a tunnel towards the gold, while the job of the saboteers are to stop these miners from reaching for the gold. All players are given a set of 5 cards each. They may be holding cards to build the tunnels, bombs, blockages, peeping for golds etc. There 7 steps towards the gold from the starting point. Everytime you throw out a card, you will draw a card from a stack of cards till its all used up.

Before the game begins, each player will draw a card to represent their identity; miner or saboteer. But no one is to reveal their identity till the game ends. So no one will know who are in the same team during the game. Only way to recognise them is by the way they map their route in the game; are they obstructive or are they heading towards the gold.

When one miner reaches the gold, all other miners will also get the reward, this is team work. But the one who reaches for the gold gets double gold, hence sometimes even among the miners, they compete too. As for the saboteers, once the cards are used up and the miners have failed their mission, they win.

I love this game so far. Its mysterious yet its fun. Its kept us occupied for hours! Its also a good way for bonding and a great way to de-stress...

German Truffles

2008-01-20T12:32:00.000+08:00

An expensive delicacy in Germany, cost about 30euro (equates to S$60+) for the size of a chestnut!!

No, i have not been to Germany (yet) and have not tried this ridiculously expensive truffles. I was out at an event of 30 people, dinning and meeting strangers on Saturday evening. We were all assigned to a table of 6 people, the guys will take rotation after 30 minutes of interaction at each table. The first group of guys had us kick start well (i guess because its the first round), we chatted, exchanged contacts and so on. After about 30 minutes, they moved on and a new group of guys sat at our table. This became routine, i could see that the gals became a little bored.. "Excuse me pls, i had to go to the washroom", one of the gals politely escaped the routine. But for some of us, we stayed on.

Thankfully, the routine was broken at the following round when this new guy came to our table (or to our rescue should i say). He was not all that a lady-killer, but for once, it was a guy who would initiate a conversation and carried it well. He may not have the most ideal career or the best pay job in town, but its his passion for his work and being honest about it that caught my attention. He has a full time job somewhere, its his "part-time" job that interest us. He is a volunteered educational-guide at the zoo. "Volunteered? Oh.. you must have loved animals?" i blurted. He went on expressing his interest and how he was involved for several years.

The conversation did not just stopped at that of course, he probed us instead "Where have you guys been on holidays?" I have not much to share unfortunately, so i asked him instead (I'm sure he would have a lot to share since he first asked.. HA!) He went to Germany last year where his friends hosted him. I thought his friends would dish out the best German sausage, beer or pork knuckles. NO. Its this truffles i was talking about.

Truffles... the first thing that came to mind is the chocolate truffles easily avail at any chocolate stations. BUT NO. This is the fungus which is known as a delicacy in Germany. How to get them? These fungus survived on pine wood buried below the earth. The farmer will pull along a pig to sniff out these fungus in the forest (yes! its a PIG, not hunting dog!) When this pig hover on the same spot, the farmer will pulled it aside and start digging for the truffles. Amazing!! (And would the farmer tap the pig on its head and say "Good piggie! Good job!"?? hahaha!)

"I had the truffles, the size of a chestnut, on an omelette. It tasted good!" Good? Like what? How does it taste like? No no, I had to hold myself; i realized i was not in a midst of filming a gourmet show. I thought i should let the other gals probe him instead.

Time for group shots. We reluctantly stepped out of the cosy cafe to have our pictures taken. Hmm... i wondered, was it the truffles or the hunting pig that amused us? Or was it his chivalrous approach or the extra curriculum at the zoo that had our attention? I like the food bit... hmm... HAHAHA! Well, if not for this, i wouldn't be able to continue with this blog and pen my thoughts of the event highlights right???

Le Grand Chef

2008-01-18T00:04:00.000+08:00

It was pop-corn and drinks in the cinema again on thursday. "This will be our dinner", i was just kidding. But our friend will always have "another stomach" for anything.

After the movie, we suddenly have appetite for korean food! Apparently, the film has an impact on us!

Not having to splurge too much on dinner, we all have korean sizzling hotplate at the food court. While we were dinning, we were talking about the korean restaurant at upper thomson road... supposedly that serves the best korean food in town?

Looks like i'm breaking away from jap food for a change. Perhaps for the next food blog, we will be "fooding" on some tasty kimchi?

Tam-Po-Po

2008-01-15T19:42:00.000+08:00

I was excited to try out good food again, at a japanese restaurant on monday... "Wow! I love jap food too!"

My friend was already there, waiting. I stepped in and took a glance, there were more japanese than locals. I knew this must be an authentic japanese hideout. I walked passed the dessert showcase, an excellent array of master pieces! All calling out "Pick me! Pick me!"

I spotted him, he waved for me to come over. The waiter was very prompt, the moment i sat opposite my friend, he immediately presenting us with a few menus; the set meals, a-la-carte and the beverages. Everything looks good. "What do you recommend?" My friend said this place is known for the tonkatsu (layered pork cutlet). Very well, we ordered one to share. I ordered the buckwheat cold soba with tempura for myself and he, ramen in spicy soup. Yes indeed the tonkatsu was superb! Its very tender and juicy, could be eaten with brown sauce or mustered sauce. I enjoyed my cold soba. Its white smooth surface makes slurping fun! Then came our dessert. I had mocha cream cake. His dessert was one very interesting creation. Its orange-jelly-in-an-orange-with-orange-fibre-in-the-jelly... a tongue-twister!

I like their service too, this waiter, who first served us, always come round our table to make sure our glasses are always filled with green tea.

"Arigato-Gosae-mas!" as we left the restaurant. "Will you come back again?" "Why not? We could ask our friends to try this too".

Looks like I had been eating out japanese food for several weeks (and it was unplanned). I had this fabulous japanese buffet at UE Square last december. And since its free flow, my friend and I had no worry about burning a big hole in his pocket (yeah, his pocket, not mine. Ha!) I like the sashimi, came in portion fit for asian appetite, so we had to order more. But i love the complimentary appetizer the best. Its a thin layer of cooked salmon on a bean curd which is seated on a sauce in a small glass, its served cold. "Am i suppose to gulp down the content like drinking tequila?" No no, use the chopsticks. Its delicious! But I had only one serving, its a pity I did not ask for another one.

Oh well, I guess there will be more japanese food to come. I will be checking out this new japanese food chain after my aquaerobics tomorrow. Its has a very interesting concept, even the food layout is unusual. I will try to take some snapshots of it. And you tell me if its worth coming back again?

Aqua then... Aqua now (part2)

2008-01-12T23:04:00.001+08:00

I forgot to mention this... we always have new faces whenever the new term starts. But on the third session onwards, they are no longer be found except for the regulars. Beats me what happen to them...

We have 2 sessions a day, I went for the later on wednesday. While i was waiting for the first class to end, i sat by the pool, browsing and chatting with some kakis when i spotted an "unusual"... "Did i see a guy in the pool?" i asked my neighbour. Yes, there was a guy in the water amidst the ladies whom made up 90% of the class. How brave he was!

We asked our instructor "How do you find having a guy in your class?" "Oh well, don't you all find him cute?" Cute? But i did not have a good look at him. What a pity. "Oh wow!! What time is he coming for the next class?" my neighbour was escalated. But nobody knows.

So does it mean that our newbies will become more regular now? hahaha.. kidding. ;)

Aqua then.. Aqua now

2008-01-10T22:43:00.000+08:00

So much of Christmas and New Year feasting, and more to come during Chinese New Year, its time to restart my aquaerobics regime.

This season, after a break of 3 weeks, i found my instructor still looking as hot and radient as before! Her hair grew a little... but she looked sassier! "Get changed and get into the water people". The water was icy! It kept us all working out at high speed! Like video playing fast forward... hahaha!

Was indeed a good work out.

The Green Thing

2008-01-09T23:04:00.000+08:00

We went for food sampling on Tues 8 Jan. Its the first green tea cake of the year! What a good way to start the year with healthy green pastry... HAHAHA!

The moment we stepped into the cafe, the first thing that caught my eyes was it... the green thing! They were humbly seated among the dainty pastry empire, right at the centre of the showcase. Just imagine a few pieces of plain, thin bricks covered with algae... yuks! BUT hey, they were most eye-catching! Maybe its the color or the velvety green attribute, they simply stood out among the decorative. I had to have a piece of it, after all thats what i'm there for!

We ordered earl grey, ice tea, blueberry cheese cake and of course, the "green thing". When the food arrived, i was impressed by the tea set; its english porcelain. And there seated quietly, in contrast to the delicate and refined design, the "brick looking" green tea cake. Humbly, it was presented on a prestigious setting. I just love the sight of it!

We first examined the "green thing" for a while... "How would it taste like? Green tea of course! But would it taste better than what we had imagine?" We spear the side of it, ate it. Its full of green flavour. Dry on the outside, dense inside. A second spear... same, full of green flavour and dense. Occasionally, the green icing almost choked me! haha...

Our honest verdict: 80% on appearance. 50% on taste. 45% on texture.

So, our dear friend need not worry about his chocolate green tea cake. Although it was too buttery, i would still prefer it moist than dry and choky... hahaha! Thumbs up for you buddy!

Staying Happy

2008-01-06T13:31:00.000+08:00

On Friday 4 Jan, after what it seemed like a long day of work, finally came the time i've been looking forward, meeting George Clooney... in Micheal Clayton (of course!) after a sumptuous meal.

About the meal, its a combination of steamboat-cum-bbq seafood (oh i love bbq!). I personally find that most food tasted better when grilled than cooked in the soup. I was contemplating if i should cook the mushrooms over the charcoal or should i cook it in the soup? I tried both. Conclusion... bbq wins!! haha! But watch it, you gotto grill the mushrooms with the mushroom-cap facing the hot coal because the juice from the mushrooms will then be kept in if done this way. I didn't know there's juice in mushrooms? It just took about 2 minutes before its done. The moment i sink my teeth into the browning toadstool, SQUASH!! it spattered... hahaha! Very juicy and tasty even when eaten on its own!

I realised when there's bbq, it's accompanied by steamboat. I guess it helps to balance the dry bbq food with something soupy(?) What i like most about this steamboat is that it has a good variety of soups. We choose tom-yum and bak-ku-teh. This tom-yum was specially my favourite because the sour and spicy flavour aroused the taste-bud, and it just kept you going... On top of that, my friend, who is the owner, travelled around the region in search for the best noodles for his steamboat. His effort was well paid off. I can testify... the noodles was indeed good! The brownish appearance of this noodle may look like instant noodle. The difference is in the tasting and texture. Unlike the commercial egg-noodles, this MA-MA mee is crunchier and more refined. It tasted a little like ee-mian (most restaurant served this at wedding dinner) and yet its not too heavy for the appetite. A perfect combination when its cooked in tom-yum soup. And of course, i had to have the second helping, and then the third and forth and so on... ops!

After a satisfying meal, we adjourned to the cinema. He managed to grab a pop corn and soft drink. "These will go into the other stomach" he grinned. When we settle in the cool and comfy cinema seats, i almost fell asleep at the suspense film. It was a good movie nonetheless. And with George in the show, it ended with an applaud!

Like wish come true...

2008-01-05T21:13:00.000+08:00

Have this ever happened to you? You thought of having something and it unexpectedly happened?

Yes, i had been thinking of eating turkey during Christmas. "Christmas would seems quite incomplete without turkey". Next thing i knew, a friend invited me over to his place on Christmas eve for a party and lo and behold! He had home-made turkey! I was so impressed he could bake let alone to bake a turkey! Fortunately, he did not disappoint me... this significant dish is one of the most succulent turkey i ever had compared to what i used to have before.. you know, turkey is known for its tough dry meat, but not anymore now. YUM YUM!! I had to interview him.. "Whats your secret recipe?" "Oh.. heheh.. nothing la, i just baked it loh" he blushed. Oh well, its a SECRET.. ok, i got it. Even without the sauce, it tasted just as good with a little jam. YUM YUM!!

The second thing i thought about was carolling and a big Christmas tree. One of his guest played the keyboard on almost any carols. He had a big Christmas tree beautifully lit up in his guest room. So warm and homely... i couldn't be asking for more ;)

Of course, there were also some pleasant surprises, like the karaoke jam. He dedicated this song "Silence"...Hmm.. what kind of song is this? He sounded good though can be better.. ;) We also discovered some new talents, Jackie Cheung and Vivian Chow wannabe! We sang so much and so loud the neighbours have to "visit" us. Time to keep it low and time to pack up.

I hope he hadn't much to clean up. And as usual, there were so much food left, some of the guest helped to 'tah-bao' the food home. So no food is wasted.