tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-51049842321730795572024-03-13T13:18:40.496+08:00 Dreams and changesA hyperactive trailblazer who loves God and people. Does a lot of cutting on a daily basis.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13639455328859316496noreply@blogger.comBlogger242125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5104984232173079557.post-55488294623635384472017-07-28T16:30:00.001+08:002017-07-28T16:30:44.997+08:00Growing flowers indoor - Orchids and African Violets<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I love flowers in the various shades of pink/fuchsia. Somehow, bright pink flowers are so shocking, mesmerising and vivid. They really bring a splash of colours amongst my indoor garden and no regrets in getting/cultivating them thus far. I've embarked on a series of different types of flowering plants and to my surprise, these 3 little pets seem to bloom just as well as in the shop over the past few months.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1DxngQyMlnBVJYLMrtmFiVi7gS0pcISlBTy5lGPOGzw0BMn-wnURBSF6RjioSwAQuW-NyQORem6j9xAjo5TnYbwNuHnh8yOUq6gLlt23diiaqVCQ69QDrdbOa0dG-HVBsRk9exZT4a0Q/s1600/20151220_084456.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1DxngQyMlnBVJYLMrtmFiVi7gS0pcISlBTy5lGPOGzw0BMn-wnURBSF6RjioSwAQuW-NyQORem6j9xAjo5TnYbwNuHnh8yOUq6gLlt23diiaqVCQ69QDrdbOa0dG-HVBsRk9exZT4a0Q/s320/20151220_084456.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
<br />
From my orchids collection, the only plant that blooms seasonally is this bright pink orchid @ Pinky. So how do I care for Pinky and her gang amidst my busy schedule? Spray only at the roots twice a day and let plenty of air circulate around them. Usually I add a few drops of liquid orchid food into the watering can.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaQkqChlPDQbZjOK7NUiDgptzz9AnDM0yXvAmS2CvIibND7ybQDGKkxzRl23u1hKsmVwPlPw1w6VyhrNpJgv7CFVp-5qF-Spa1sj0ajdMRPWPBlQTozr98fmsUCoZqx0j7YJ8436zdBt0/s1600/20160822_172907.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaQkqChlPDQbZjOK7NUiDgptzz9AnDM0yXvAmS2CvIibND7ybQDGKkxzRl23u1hKsmVwPlPw1w6VyhrNpJgv7CFVp-5qF-Spa1sj0ajdMRPWPBlQTozr98fmsUCoZqx0j7YJ8436zdBt0/s320/20160822_172907.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjth32qCEHtgB1s-axLtetYkkBDjzWa6GssvFuHKSfH8h0xzHy01ERsuUjg1ZxQKA_PcZ5iq8vAf_f5-dv-3evXARTlgCLRnWvscbYYEqZNcYrEcBkycawo66y8cpF7QyIXIroMC9WdEu8/s1600/20161016_092807.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Another wonderful responsive plant is this Gloxinia which I have placed in a sunny corner in the office. It was resurrected from near-certain death while I was growing it in my sunny, warm living room. In the cold air-conditioned office environment, Gloxinia keeps on showing up with gorgeous bright blossoms once every 2 months. Despite long periods of non-watering from her owner. Maybe that's the key for this particular species - lack of fuss and water!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglg5C0lEqB9jYPLnoCPxYTJKPnQ8hZ79F2QtQ-sBG2g3dy5aqkdhoNM1JcpvWZ18HKby9GUfAeI-LOu8p7MkoxwP6LVXE3Z1mOE87MkUncLtdSZ7QJzjTqhs11SxLUWh03T1LtS5dhEjw/s1600/20161016_092807.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglg5C0lEqB9jYPLnoCPxYTJKPnQ8hZ79F2QtQ-sBG2g3dy5aqkdhoNM1JcpvWZ18HKby9GUfAeI-LOu8p7MkoxwP6LVXE3Z1mOE87MkUncLtdSZ7QJzjTqhs11SxLUWh03T1LtS5dhEjw/s320/20161016_092807.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And of course there is this wonderful gift from a colleague at office after I chatted about my indoor garden at my little apartment. I was promptly rewarded with this little plant, Violet, an African violet. She was actually propagated from other plants grown in the floors above. Initially, Violet refused to flower in a semi-sheltered corner. I've moved her to a sunny corner next to Gloxinia and lo and behold! She flowers every 3 weeks now. Again another fussy plant, I've taken care not to over-water this creature and over-fed them with nutrient. However, I've not been very successful in my desire to re-pot this rapidly growing plant and I worry that the root system will be stunted soon in view of the exuberant growth. Usually I add in diluted African violet liquid fertilizer into my watering bottle once every 2-3 weeks to help with replenishing the nutrient in the soil.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3uAwnEaBJ28NO1NebmkqU8zbfw18EKVvKIeB7SeclDgRNSKhBiADRduKCKtlfB2RjPDgytsVBQkBKQtnS1hc18Z5rOjr3xtedO3a7Tfm15o1VIhgGKTZx42HdSO5GJTqaRYbPqdy-Dws/s1600/20161012_071848.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3uAwnEaBJ28NO1NebmkqU8zbfw18EKVvKIeB7SeclDgRNSKhBiADRduKCKtlfB2RjPDgytsVBQkBKQtnS1hc18Z5rOjr3xtedO3a7Tfm15o1VIhgGKTZx42HdSO5GJTqaRYbPqdy-Dws/s320/20161012_071848.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer"><!--nuffnang -->
<script type='text/javascript'>
nuffnang_bid = "9dcd1c2617bc560566e0dd3317a7b141";
</script>
<script type="text/javascript" src="http://synad2.nuffnang.com.my/j.js"></script>
<!--nuffnang--></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13639455328859316496noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5104984232173079557.post-66059914627353087022015-10-24T11:24:00.003+08:002015-10-24T11:25:00.034+08:00Unearthing a new talent! Live update of my vegetable plot Part 1I am so excited today because almost all the bok choy seeds I've sown recently have germinated! Hooray...<br />
<br />
My first crops of vegetable consist of these boy choy. 2 days after carefully sowing the seeds, this is the outcome.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUxWdLQPutql4FIAdiWsUY93QTnt9X0MA8BPmaUC03lOJGUeC8Kk6Pvev51WPSFZqo1bYaYmCgJ6Dqr5RN3hJlZTEVvT661M8c2bLPkEK4FuP_UH1WRxCoHnT9sBn8TREnYxft-x0kKfo/s1600/20151020_175211.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUxWdLQPutql4FIAdiWsUY93QTnt9X0MA8BPmaUC03lOJGUeC8Kk6Pvev51WPSFZqo1bYaYmCgJ6Dqr5RN3hJlZTEVvT661M8c2bLPkEK4FuP_UH1WRxCoHnT9sBn8TREnYxft-x0kKfo/s320/20151020_175211.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Obviously, I was very pleased after my initial failure of growing anything from Horti seeds. I realized that the quality of seeds and types of plants really matter. Being a novice, I'm probably not ready for plants like thyme or rosemary in a tropical country. So far, I know basil, succulents and orchid works very well in an indoor setting in Singapore<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3MeCjc97vbgik-QOpQq1vhoDyW8MbjGMAcjveHJCCjuJudUf_AKXAEho-9qXlR4JTFSM1A-EB4c3pS-3IhM1dSOErjNon7H0HlYbGSNmt1Vt6ww_jWnJwGHCD0xF-ubMI6AoEiR5MLDE/s1600/20151020_175231.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3MeCjc97vbgik-QOpQq1vhoDyW8MbjGMAcjveHJCCjuJudUf_AKXAEho-9qXlR4JTFSM1A-EB4c3pS-3IhM1dSOErjNon7H0HlYbGSNmt1Vt6ww_jWnJwGHCD0xF-ubMI6AoEiR5MLDE/s320/20151020_175231.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
5 days later, I've decided to transplant the immatured 1-inch seedlings from the plastic tray to the eventual container. Experimenting with 3 different types of containers, a deep container, a long planter and a small little container (for microgreens perhaps). I suspect that the little container will be overgrown with bok choy within 1 week if the growth spurts continue. This is the outcome today after I gave some diluted liquid fertilizers from Daiso.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNdpUVkwCcQ3grLB06Hbmi8Z0sfQLnfhv9l934piTHmPFlu_6rvUGVH0bF9YOygkGqFSbGAimZL8C1tE8MREB0lVihMgVErAzgHPfDLT13CzT6IPIXVtJYsZWHrQ4cTMe_POJjF1kN9Bc/s1600/20151024_105403.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNdpUVkwCcQ3grLB06Hbmi8Z0sfQLnfhv9l934piTHmPFlu_6rvUGVH0bF9YOygkGqFSbGAimZL8C1tE8MREB0lVihMgVErAzgHPfDLT13CzT6IPIXVtJYsZWHrQ4cTMe_POJjF1kN9Bc/s320/20151024_105403.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
My next step will be to further thin the seedlings so that they are about 10-12 inches apart. In the current state, these babies will probably die off they are still very crowded and this will probably impair their full maturity later.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifIerqJ5na89m95Nnb1aYpYv2sDgJKgeIKAt15GAxZ5JuYtx0bZKIwOyReV9ZS9bp_nJPbhZ5c767dQqmmFmDzlvTNh3Py69u64IDwCFe0__5rfocmIjASsM4dFlN-XMJu5iGHQ5RzG7w/s1600/20151024_105413.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifIerqJ5na89m95Nnb1aYpYv2sDgJKgeIKAt15GAxZ5JuYtx0bZKIwOyReV9ZS9bp_nJPbhZ5c767dQqmmFmDzlvTNh3Py69u64IDwCFe0__5rfocmIjASsM4dFlN-XMJu5iGHQ5RzG7w/s320/20151024_105413.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I think I've found the key ingredient: very fertile soil from the local market in Clementi, mixed with compost. This is further complemented with water used to wash seafood I cook (I cook once a week, that's the most I can indulge in my second hobby). I've also taken to using organic insecticide and revitalizer to help prevent illness and insects. Hopefully, the bok choy will thrive in this sunny alcove and soon I'll be able to harvest my own vegetable!<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlMkBw-kp5UXYIshdOWIYWCeNWRM5yMlx6KAmLeCKHUmh6BbW8iu1ilXm4EcCyiIm-VpliDB5lJC5Q-RPfVN8v6bMpIwamBB6LEIeYouO-_eYmKN13FNwRfV3hqObET0L6Kja055KYJbM/s1600/20151024_105426.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlMkBw-kp5UXYIshdOWIYWCeNWRM5yMlx6KAmLeCKHUmh6BbW8iu1ilXm4EcCyiIm-VpliDB5lJC5Q-RPfVN8v6bMpIwamBB6LEIeYouO-_eYmKN13FNwRfV3hqObET0L6Kja055KYJbM/s320/20151024_105426.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><!--nuffnang -->
<script type='text/javascript'>
nuffnang_bid = "9dcd1c2617bc560566e0dd3317a7b141";
</script>
<script type="text/javascript" src="http://synad2.nuffnang.com.my/j.js"></script>
<!--nuffnang--></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13639455328859316496noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5104984232173079557.post-69943069813473229662015-09-06T19:32:00.002+08:002015-09-06T19:33:12.764+08:00Hooked to my Indoor Garden<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">After days of pondering about acquiring a new hobby, I stumbled upon a few websites exhorting the possibilities of growing your own herb garden in a small apartment. Suddenly this became a strong impetus to go on a 'buying' spree. After voraciously reading up on pros and cons of growing various plants in Singapore (in order to suit my absence from them), I've decided on the following plants...</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">The first was the Basil... Basil thrives in the sunny warm climate of Singapore...and I love the aroma and taste of Basil in Italian & Thai cooking. My adventures started with a few bought from the NTUC finest vegetable section...</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi18VIl9KWJaV4D1pjWpwOBlDyOI4Ab6TylaEgttCtSCJ63eWcWGa7sD9P3Z66wf0q7KdFn9Iyb7RxnUa-tk0ZtRfjcem44a8SeR73SthwVU9hXy7mj6f9V5c5QeLIxs0qszrdZCOb_i44/s1600/DSC_7469.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi18VIl9KWJaV4D1pjWpwOBlDyOI4Ab6TylaEgttCtSCJ63eWcWGa7sD9P3Z66wf0q7KdFn9Iyb7RxnUa-tk0ZtRfjcem44a8SeR73SthwVU9hXy7mj6f9V5c5QeLIxs0qszrdZCOb_i44/s320/DSC_7469.JPG" width="211" /></span></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Basically Italian basil grown via hydroponics methods are kind of sensitive once you transplant them to regular potting soil mix. Out of 6 plants, I ended up having these 2. The rest sadly perished to root rot. Still I think it's not the end of the story as we can propagate basil using cuttings dipped into water plus a lot of patience (as seen in the foreground). I've already made my own pesto sauce from my basil without any pesticides and unusual fertilizers. What a victorious feeling!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitWlQ2dK_F02yqK0KI_9G_oGTF0WJ8PwsGMCwRuLQf15xnAX1-4Nd6KUzUsUgvVoYAlR-FUGbOhSJfAeI0mrRT8wGCKobO-ivv_JrVLWico3k16jSp53oV3c-8SC-Zsyr8pmj2IWo0tFQ/s1600/DSC_7472.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitWlQ2dK_F02yqK0KI_9G_oGTF0WJ8PwsGMCwRuLQf15xnAX1-4Nd6KUzUsUgvVoYAlR-FUGbOhSJfAeI0mrRT8wGCKobO-ivv_JrVLWico3k16jSp53oV3c-8SC-Zsyr8pmj2IWo0tFQ/s320/DSC_7472.JPG" width="211" /></span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Upon getting hooked, my shopping spree began. Next little pet I had was this moderately-big pot of sweet basil from a market in Clementi Ave 2. It looks very hardy and I've harvested 3x from this plant already. Just remember to fertilize using organic fertilizers (i.e. dung from either goat, chicken, etc) and use neem powder as natural pesticide. This is the plant on the right of the pic below.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijvDVxfd074f25zg3ZX6il-8XGV8moJxpsWmCe1LQVTEZLqZuB0CiphbaZu-whNBhgwXeBOyG5t5A2nA_R1P2gQHnyDl1MjGtszYBENbY4rPDLcZWbVWSQ8YEPo_YPBvLxDjyecXUZyZo/s1600/My+little+indoor+garden.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijvDVxfd074f25zg3ZX6il-8XGV8moJxpsWmCe1LQVTEZLqZuB0CiphbaZu-whNBhgwXeBOyG5t5A2nA_R1P2gQHnyDl1MjGtszYBENbY4rPDLcZWbVWSQ8YEPo_YPBvLxDjyecXUZyZo/s320/My+little+indoor+garden.jpg" width="267" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">My proudest moment as a gardener was when I snagged this pretty bunch of rosemary at an unusually cheap price at the same market in Clementi. This is seen on the left of the upper shelf (next to the basil). I literally snapped it up from the market just before another lady who was perusing at the range of 2 rosemary plants on offer. Indeed rosemary is a beautiful, hardy, dry-weather plant. The heady aroma is gorgeous and I have cooked at least 4 times with this awesome looking plant. Essential oil produced by this plant has this attractive aroma that naturally bring fragrance to any food or room. Much better than growing from rosemary seeds (trust me, I tried) because I totally failed at even producing one seedling from the seeds I've sown. This little girl loves living precariously on the dry side & adores the sun as well. Therefore, the prime position facing the sun and of course, only water once a day or when the soil is dry to touch.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaCUv9K2BjGH4MikgTWXzRUYHe5y9fCVDv1mPZ6UcVQqI2FIoX8-ZUgvvkSjhg1c1YH1x4VttmBhwTLcjOpqu4SdPK1u6E9Syoga1FlXLpQ9h4YQ9pnTzLnPlf7yL47gGOullxzgy3Lok/s1600/air+plant.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="221" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaCUv9K2BjGH4MikgTWXzRUYHe5y9fCVDv1mPZ6UcVQqI2FIoX8-ZUgvvkSjhg1c1YH1x4VttmBhwTLcjOpqu4SdPK1u6E9Syoga1FlXLpQ9h4YQ9pnTzLnPlf7yL47gGOullxzgy3Lok/s320/air+plant.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Next my cutesy ornamental plants. Air plants are very pretty little flora that brings automatic cheer to any room and it's kind of hardy as well. I've just recently acquired this spiky little fellow (pic above) and apparently it's very easy to care for. Other than looking good, I've yet to find a use for this plant. Nevertheless, it's a good chum to my rosemary and basil.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOnXlVIc3ljTkmuPCc_Ju5g9Bt5aFRCXSZ3NIhFFUiuKYZmP5oRZFJ_MfJ_bGUhj9MpWZLoR3XpZt3JCwjvSIj0V8h3pznAefZNhiqB9O5pFsPfVQIr5h3-pdNyf-XRl1yho4gwWmB9n4/s1600/DSC_7466.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOnXlVIc3ljTkmuPCc_Ju5g9Bt5aFRCXSZ3NIhFFUiuKYZmP5oRZFJ_MfJ_bGUhj9MpWZLoR3XpZt3JCwjvSIj0V8h3pznAefZNhiqB9O5pFsPfVQIr5h3-pdNyf-XRl1yho4gwWmB9n4/s320/DSC_7466.JPG" width="211" /></span></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">And finally, my new succulent collections. This has recently arrived via post (online purchase) at a very very affordable rate. These are the most cost-effective little home decor items, and being alive gives us a lot of little baby plants in the future too either to brighten up each room in the house or to disseminate as gifts. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Apparently, some brides are using this hardy creatures in the weddings as part of an eco-friendly decor movement. Ain't too bad for a genus that originates from the desert.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj71hKsLECasqGvmN8vF-Icjx0Y_cH_sLExga6I4GY3PVLh4HSNGdGkhyphenhyphenADavs_QRc9yBWhjK7v-onITlCCSIDsVCfzY-k2a2n9vPUD0LSZB7tRB686RwPBRSCeC8N5s0gX7plyc9vSH5g/s1600/echeveria.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="205" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj71hKsLECasqGvmN8vF-Icjx0Y_cH_sLExga6I4GY3PVLh4HSNGdGkhyphenhyphenADavs_QRc9yBWhjK7v-onITlCCSIDsVCfzY-k2a2n9vPUD0LSZB7tRB686RwPBRSCeC8N5s0gX7plyc9vSH5g/s320/echeveria.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Echeveria (pic above) is this lovely purple-pinkish succulent that is easy to propagate but very sensitive to the hot weather in Singapore - coz it can get sunburn easily. Gradually expose it to sun and if possible, keep it in a slightly colder environment at night. I've recently given it a new pot, hopefully it likes it new home.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyxbqO-0AqA6ZyFm-sVAjQ4fx3HoAO9dhzkCvvm8Vmtl9j10tOcAm91o7Q4xk3X1P7Q3_l3m1JDtE_R3Xg_NCE2pXCF8soW159Mvvayx9NgRex_64PHj63FFzQOXD9ejVi3DEbcjpf3hc/s1600/graptoveria.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyxbqO-0AqA6ZyFm-sVAjQ4fx3HoAO9dhzkCvvm8Vmtl9j10tOcAm91o7Q4xk3X1P7Q3_l3m1JDtE_R3Xg_NCE2pXCF8soW159Mvvayx9NgRex_64PHj63FFzQOXD9ejVi3DEbcjpf3hc/s320/graptoveria.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">I think this is a graptoveria - correct me if I'm wrong - very new in the succulent world. Apparently it's a hybrid between graptoverium and echeveria thus it's green but in a petal-like formation. Out of all 3, apparently this can really with-stand the Singaporean sun but I've also not taking chances. Currently, it's sitting pretty in the shade for now.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFX1k7fuWblNCoJDhbMn0phw42I9mqdqzI27bW2KnpjYFUqzScj7xrMW0ckQOaXxWwLu-HrsfbkwPnlMUV-ckKitQtWA5gbMdrPBpO4sQelCClmoB8up6_uPuC9mmBOQ_I-I-4O_QppJ4/s1600/turgid+haworthia.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="208" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFX1k7fuWblNCoJDhbMn0phw42I9mqdqzI27bW2KnpjYFUqzScj7xrMW0ckQOaXxWwLu-HrsfbkwPnlMUV-ckKitQtWA5gbMdrPBpO4sQelCClmoB8up6_uPuC9mmBOQ_I-I-4O_QppJ4/s320/turgid+haworthia.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">And finally, this unusual looking haworthia which I believe is the turgid haworthia. I like the thorny-like apperance but there is no thorn at all. Reading up on all the stories and articles on succulents online made me realize that there are a lot of succulent-fans out there and this cute little plants are definitely here to stay. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">The most important ingredients (based on research, not experience) is a combination of appropriate well-draining soil, very little water and sunlight+cold nights (simulating desert conditions). I've to say I'm most worried about my succulents because the nights are still kind of hot in Singapore. Hopefully, the raining season will come soon and bring some relief to my 3 little plants.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Looking forward to growing more indoor plants in the near future - both edible and inedible (pretty ornaments) as this new hobby takes flight.</span></div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer"><!--nuffnang -->
<script type='text/javascript'>
nuffnang_bid = "9dcd1c2617bc560566e0dd3317a7b141";
</script>
<script type="text/javascript" src="http://synad2.nuffnang.com.my/j.js"></script>
<!--nuffnang--></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13639455328859316496noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5104984232173079557.post-52371137322847366452015-06-13T21:26:00.001+08:002015-06-13T21:26:36.275+08:00Another chapter beckons - assuming new responsibilitiesWriting is..a form of catharsis to the soul. I've forgotten how joyful it is to be able to put my thoughts into words, stringing the words into sentences and creating the magic of written prose. With so much of pressure associated with 'scientific' writing in my daily work - I've forgotten the joys of casually, calmly jotting down my thoughts.<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Next month marks another new chapter to my life. I'm not sure whether I'm ready to be a consultant, just like when I first stepped into HKL 10 years ago, I wasn't sure whether I'll be a good doctor or now. Now I'm wondering whether my years of wandering about, gathering knowledge, experience and pearls of wisdoms from various hospitals, mentors, colleagues and patients - whether I'll be worthy of the calling of a consultant general surgeon in a big academic medical centre in Asia.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Recently I met a few people who made me think very hard about the meaning of being a good leader and a healthcare provider. To some, these might be ordinary faces in the streets, foreign faces on this tiny, crowded island. To me, these could have been me should my life turned out differently. Yet they strike me as reminder of this inner meaning and purpose - What is my calling?</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The calling is simple but not as easy to achieve - to live according to God's will, marked by being a person filled with moral values, integrity and honour. With each blessings in life, sometimes we forget that if we give up on our values, all that is left is emptiness and early burn-out. Today I received a reminder from above that I cannot squander all that I've been taught and given, and I do not ever 'rest on my laurels' - coz we should never stop learning and giving....</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Before next month even begins, next week is the start of the school term for the bright medical students in clinical years in NUS. God has placed me here for a purpose, and I sure hope that I can give back to the community what He has given to me. Alongside some of the best medical and surgical tutors in the region, again I have the opportunity to guide these young sparks into the backbone of the healthcare system in this country. I pray that I'll be able to effectively help these young ones into being competent, confident and caring doctors of the future.</div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer"><!--nuffnang -->
<script type='text/javascript'>
nuffnang_bid = "9dcd1c2617bc560566e0dd3317a7b141";
</script>
<script type="text/javascript" src="http://synad2.nuffnang.com.my/j.js"></script>
<!--nuffnang--></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13639455328859316496noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5104984232173079557.post-89950232255677449342014-08-16T17:06:00.002+08:002014-08-16T17:09:43.906+08:00 Through it All: Decade of ups-and-downs in the world of cilipadidoctor-ing<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Just like the eminent PM LHL, who has been at the helm of this little red dot for a decade...for me, it's been nearly a decade of 'repairing' the human body. Guess I'm showing my age by penning this post but I can't resist as it's been a very interesting day of reflection. Deep thoughts often open up the floodgates of penmanship in me, unlocking the writer's block in me and of course allowing me to revive my blog once in a long while.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Why the sudden impetus to write on this calm, windy Saturday afternoon here in the balmy tropical island of Singapore? Probably the recent conversations about life and death due to Ebola Hemorrhagic Virus with my Nigerian doctor-friend who is fighting in ground zero in combination with the joyful announcements of the successful Singaporean contingent in the just-concluded FRCS (GS) examinations in KTPH.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Spent nearly half the decade of 'doctoring' in Malaysia before settling in Singapore. Eternally-grateful for the teachers from both countries who have enlightened me along the way, gifted me knowledge in the human body and honed in me the skills necessary to be a good general surgeon. Sometimes I do miss practising in Malaysia, the hustle and bustle of a Malaysian general hospital where we truly see the meaning of 'general' in general surgery.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvcyyZYgg59PLkj1rNMYf9LNoCmnei3n7mTtz3qCtA8z5pKrmOAtO24xaiV2e03T0wYDvuNMlc4Ce-Wi7F0XayAVggbMPB53vOZXZdJkLe5GBfi85n9wDWu4cm88koq-RDIlNm6hoSLTE/s1600/2014-06-30+19.23.45.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvcyyZYgg59PLkj1rNMYf9LNoCmnei3n7mTtz3qCtA8z5pKrmOAtO24xaiV2e03T0wYDvuNMlc4Ce-Wi7F0XayAVggbMPB53vOZXZdJkLe5GBfi85n9wDWu4cm88koq-RDIlNm6hoSLTE/s1600/2014-06-30+19.23.45.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div>
My happiest memories of being a clinician were those of patients grasped from the jaws of death, those turned around from the light at the end of the tunnel and their subsequent walk out of the hospital. It's been a wonderful, fulfilling journey and I pray to God that He will give me much wisdom, ability and opportunities to minister to the ill. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Nostalgia aside, life is very different now. The focus is excellence in the highest level, fighting alongside the best minds in this tropical metropolis. Be it persevering in the war against cancer, suppressing my adrenaline rush to remain the calmest mind in the face of a surgical emergency, teaching the brightest young minds in YLLSoM or calculating p-values and confidence interval...I am grateful for being allowed to flourish in this institution. Truly I have now understood what is meritocracy and what opened doors mean....</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
My twin passion in professional life is in general surgery and public health and my quest is to leave a great legacy for many female surgeons and public health practitioner a few decades down the road. So before that could come to fruition, please pray for me as I prepare for the largest battle of my professional career in a few months' time. I may not know what God has in store for me as these are kairos moments but I know that He is always there for me through it all....</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer"><!--nuffnang -->
<script type='text/javascript'>
nuffnang_bid = "9dcd1c2617bc560566e0dd3317a7b141";
</script>
<script type="text/javascript" src="http://synad2.nuffnang.com.my/j.js"></script>
<!--nuffnang--></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13639455328859316496noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5104984232173079557.post-10582234128361543742014-05-17T10:29:00.001+08:002014-05-17T10:33:00.072+08:00Lost & Found: Perhaps a modern miracle?This week has been so eventful that I can't help but blog about it. Actually one event trumped it all, the tale of the lost pair of rings. Here goes:<br />
<br />
And so Dr L being a busy, multi-tasking, Type A surgeon was juggling work, social life and family happily. One fine Wednesday, there was this gorgeous dinner at Marina Bay Sands after work with colleagues and hubby. Being over-excited as always, she's decided to wear both her wedding and engagement rings...which both carry significant symbolism and price tags. Nevertheless, the dinner went on smoothly and she went home safely.<br />
<br />
Early the next day, both Dr L and Dr L woke up early to grab a bus to work as the car is in the workshop. Now the car is in the workshop because Dr L forgot to top up engine oil the Sunday before and the car broke down pitifully on the way back from Kuala Lumpur to Singapore. So u see, it's a very tiring and long week packed with long hours at work and commuting. Nevertheless, Dr L was still in high spirits.<br />
<br />
She scrubbed in for an operation to remove part of someone's stomach to reduce weight and improve health. The operation went on smoothly. Unbeknownst to her, something very critical has happened on her way out of theatre to go do a few endoscopic procedures. She went into theatre still wearing her rings..but there were none on her finger as she emerged out of the theatre, rushing to do procedures elsewhere.<br />
<br />
Thus busy Thursday flew by and she went home. Being an aspirant 'housewife' she decided to cook dinner and after dinner, fell asleep peacefully. Again unknown to her, her rings are not even in her house at this point.<br />
<br />
Then came stormy Friday. Upon waking up from a very blissful and dreamless sleep, Dr L suddenly remembered her rings, wanting to store it up at its usual location. Lo and behold! It's gone. Disaster struck...she couldn't find it. The other half was also equally concerned but clueless. He has to go to work for night duty and so he left her to look for it frantically at home. Yet it was not to be found.<br />
<br />
She went to work in really low spirits but determined to find her rings. She retraced her steps and interviewed every single person she encountered on Wednesday night and the whole of Thursday. Dr L knew time is not on her side as 24hours has elapsed since the rings were last sighted. She reported the incident to the hospital cleaning services and laundry, hoping something will turn up.<br />
<br />
The weekend came. Still no news. She was even on duty on Saturday and has to put this important matter at the back of her mind as she concentrated fully on her surgical patients. Material goods carry certain symbolic meaning but that's all...human lives matter the most.<br />
<br />
Not giving up on hope, she began to pray earnestly to God. There is surely a way for the rings to come back as long as it's within God's will. However, God wanted Dr L to learn something. He wanted her to learn to trust him completely and not to think about something she can't change now. Dr L learnt to let go. She surrendered it to God completely. With a heavy heart, she stopped searching on Sunday, 48 hours after the initial loss.<br />
<br />
Another 2 days has passed by. No news. By now, she has gained the nickname of Gollum, with her "Preciousssses" gone. Life goes on. Suddenly on Wednesday morning, she received a call from the cleaning supervisors. They found her rings!<br />
<br />
It was actually found all the way in the pockets of the surgical scrubs. This had travelled quite far to the hospital laundry services in Singapore's only prison. God has touched the hearts of everyone involved, with all the Singaporeans honestly doing their duty and returning them to their rightful owner.<br />
<br />
Of course, Dr L is extremely overjoyed and relieved. It has only been few months since the wedding and with such a busy life, a lot of things happened on the daily basis. Yet one thing remained, the faithfulness and goodness of God trumps the lapse of memory of a human being. God is indeed wonderful and loving!<br />
<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><!--nuffnang -->
<script type='text/javascript'>
nuffnang_bid = "9dcd1c2617bc560566e0dd3317a7b141";
</script>
<script type="text/javascript" src="http://synad2.nuffnang.com.my/j.js"></script>
<!--nuffnang--></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13639455328859316496noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5104984232173079557.post-48475546551448501672014-01-01T21:34:00.000+08:002014-01-01T21:34:44.217+08:00What 2013 meant...A year of excitement. Wonderful adventure. Start of a new chapter. 2013 has been one of the most challenging and happiest year of my life.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ3-9BA0dhsjZVioDuWUb5_kbt_frICZR6lTqYXLRfctATolppNLkAU8i6PA8at4gjSNEEBBNTKiYkDOFEhRQM8ZmZO16TNZ2sCz9frIa3rEn2ndY9eEFbIAO4SV-wfWTxId-oh05I8xI/s1600/Master+bedroom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ3-9BA0dhsjZVioDuWUb5_kbt_frICZR6lTqYXLRfctATolppNLkAU8i6PA8at4gjSNEEBBNTKiYkDOFEhRQM8ZmZO16TNZ2sCz9frIa3rEn2ndY9eEFbIAO4SV-wfWTxId-oh05I8xI/s1600/Master+bedroom.jpg" height="160" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
It started with a bang...Opening up with the biggest financial commitment of my life. If before I was a rolling stone, this is the major anchor cemented my decision to set root in Singapore. Y and I decided to purchase a house together. As we worked on the reconstruction plans, e.g. the artist's rendering of our new home. The dream became a reality 2 months later as our little nest was completed.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8Uh5duJF2BuwcP4ULtNsGT1aluSij8igCXREST_oaccOugbhrXNiGKyAt55ee4exuXhK2823xJ5SU294FKPucTdAGaHa_c01CEDpOVoW3ozQgX9jd1HFdTXPak2Cr60YHT7yhwNuTUpg/s1600/2013-05-29+18.58.27.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8Uh5duJF2BuwcP4ULtNsGT1aluSij8igCXREST_oaccOugbhrXNiGKyAt55ee4exuXhK2823xJ5SU294FKPucTdAGaHa_c01CEDpOVoW3ozQgX9jd1HFdTXPak2Cr60YHT7yhwNuTUpg/s1600/2013-05-29+18.58.27.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Then the master's program culminated in a tough practicum project leading to my graduation in mid 2013. Another milestone as I join the ranks of public health practitioner amidst my surgical practice. 2 years of hard work after-hours, learning priceless knowledge on preventive health and knowing good classmates..It was truly worth all the efforts...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirYd8LiqEGhfitwtJuiK_ALXUZKn9r4xK5lrOBTEbnJeoRvuxXMiyQUr5tkf2Doks0zzB6vjxFCwFINsiWTgpWbAowLkedkFhtKeP_LvpzPypC0CAIOBqWScAtDXOmsIKQUhfs4HILObs/s1600/2013-07-14+10.23.58.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirYd8LiqEGhfitwtJuiK_ALXUZKn9r4xK5lrOBTEbnJeoRvuxXMiyQUr5tkf2Doks0zzB6vjxFCwFINsiWTgpWbAowLkedkFhtKeP_LvpzPypC0CAIOBqWScAtDXOmsIKQUhfs4HILObs/s1600/2013-07-14+10.23.58.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Of course the main highlight of 2013 would be undisputedly the awesome Docs Tie The Knot 2013 held in both Singapore and Malaysia. Y & I worked very hard on preparing for 2 joyous days of celebration as we hold each other's hands and made solemn promise to have and hold, in sickness and health, till death do us part. What lifted my heart and soul is that I know my late mother in heaven would rejoice on this happy occassion too..even as my siblings and I remembered how she loved us. She would love Y as her own too...I am sure of it.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4wlzgkAMoN7poG9lQ31Rt1k-G9RjlY8nmbQOhzAm5uf58GvVG1LFAZ0J3k7xG2brH2fUqRe53sbMqCipMLUp59otsfrqEWbFgHiLAxC8Qf_EDgKQWXIuTkzTSMfB9cVwvId3AKceDndI/s1600/2013-09-22+16.35.18.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4wlzgkAMoN7poG9lQ31Rt1k-G9RjlY8nmbQOhzAm5uf58GvVG1LFAZ0J3k7xG2brH2fUqRe53sbMqCipMLUp59otsfrqEWbFgHiLAxC8Qf_EDgKQWXIuTkzTSMfB9cVwvId3AKceDndI/s1600/2013-09-22+16.35.18.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Thoughts as Y and I enter into a new year of 2014? May our good Lord continue to watch over us as we dedicate both our lives in serving Him - in bringing the art and science of healing to our patients daily, in enriching the souls of our oikos and in loving one another. Even as we rejoice and give thanks for all that has happened in the past, we are sure that God will continue to amaze us with greater things to come as we face life, together.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfx_PfR5entRMBxsEdC0rzQCPxK3wRbCqpiS9ApwvuHjHPkN_WEK2kF8StVwLRbm4VYHHRQQc2wzoBZn-mZ8QGwTXVN-hpJ00YZicqI_F_7b1u4U65cO5lKY40LyAg71aDPkAV7rhTUEI/s1600/2013-09-22+16.37.11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfx_PfR5entRMBxsEdC0rzQCPxK3wRbCqpiS9ApwvuHjHPkN_WEK2kF8StVwLRbm4VYHHRQQc2wzoBZn-mZ8QGwTXVN-hpJ00YZicqI_F_7b1u4U65cO5lKY40LyAg71aDPkAV7rhTUEI/s1600/2013-09-22+16.37.11.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><!--nuffnang -->
<script type='text/javascript'>
nuffnang_bid = "9dcd1c2617bc560566e0dd3317a7b141";
</script>
<script type="text/javascript" src="http://synad2.nuffnang.com.my/j.js"></script>
<!--nuffnang--></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13639455328859316496noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5104984232173079557.post-2243021908006083542013-11-03T13:00:00.000+08:002013-11-03T13:02:03.811+08:00Odyssey to the centre of Europe 1 - Pretty Prague<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Quarter of my trip down and just discovered live-blogging from European trains. Better late than never. Sometimes it's cathartic, at other times, strangely poignant, recalling our travels as we zoomed pass giant wind-farms & golden fields of rural Austria. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSwT4mLA_RVil9GMmLJxHNwbr_7kDTREgMx4tIIR1nITLhdL3JvmTBtCsVpXP5ERcKBJt-UvlIcc32G7Yd_GvOgfIs49BUVS0tYOLGT8XBf2egwdklpfcYftP89HwAOjrGxATDwMAjdec/s1600/IMG_0706.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSwT4mLA_RVil9GMmLJxHNwbr_7kDTREgMx4tIIR1nITLhdL3JvmTBtCsVpXP5ERcKBJt-UvlIcc32G7Yd_GvOgfIs49BUVS0tYOLGT8XBf2egwdklpfcYftP89HwAOjrGxATDwMAjdec/s320/IMG_0706.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Marvelous European railways</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Our first day was a seemingly endless day of cruising at 35,000 ft above sea level as we tried to sleep on the huge Lufthansa Airbus. Thankfully, we drifted off into a dreamless sleep as we were fatigued from 2 weeks of wedding prep & festivities. Frankfurt airport was ruthlessly functional but forgettable. At least I managed to clear customs (always a few minutes delayed compared to Singaporeans that I am traveling with). Don't these people know where is Malaysia?</span><br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9-gjEb-NRZdest-cd0J7fhFM1fe5b9pHKMxJPtkGlgVNqsKd6re4Gx5z6fHyXfK-vnnfiZmEn2dZJjysiLTbBKhM7FV9Kx-3sGAFGLYV3E2VUPnTEOXbetEhxiIUBS6s6YABE3kgqX8g/s1600/20131005_112713.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="140" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9-gjEb-NRZdest-cd0J7fhFM1fe5b9pHKMxJPtkGlgVNqsKd6re4Gx5z6fHyXfK-vnnfiZmEn2dZJjysiLTbBKhM7FV9Kx-3sGAFGLYV3E2VUPnTEOXbetEhxiIUBS6s6YABE3kgqX8g/s320/20131005_112713.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The cathedral in centre of Prague Castle</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Quoting from our guidebooks, these fertile soil is also sites of famous battlegrounds since medieval times. Blood had been shed defending the glorious Austro-Hungarian empire. But mostly, the empire blossomed from the times of the Spanish Hapsburg to the First World War. </span><br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_4Txwui7xLE3sm5MAzJQu9FrACLHvMtGMUvzJ4KLeo_Zqxtkmptbd5mHub9rTlh_lgobT3bqhnGbNZefsrXM_tLhiB9i5ngbZraJ3Ggs1SoEFc9RawSejlQV8y5phGZxf6NCEhdslJLc/s1600/20131005_122348.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_4Txwui7xLE3sm5MAzJQu9FrACLHvMtGMUvzJ4KLeo_Zqxtkmptbd5mHub9rTlh_lgobT3bqhnGbNZefsrXM_tLhiB9i5ngbZraJ3Ggs1SoEFc9RawSejlQV8y5phGZxf6NCEhdslJLc/s320/20131005_122348.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beautiful vista of Prague</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Before my mind began to wander back in history, maybe I should record down the chronicles of our recent foray eastward across the plains of the Donau Valley (Danube River).</span><br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2x2ymZ2t86-i17drjpLEBM-9ZZVNr6OvDP_8vyCrX0cUim3Vflj11a3B1ga7KXQrDp-0VH_Au_RmjN1zlwSH9d_OvX3s5eyncurkyMCYEWc0b9Zef1N5dbIl-lU5OhrrgHTyudHGTAYE/s1600/20131005_150403.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="101" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2x2ymZ2t86-i17drjpLEBM-9ZZVNr6OvDP_8vyCrX0cUim3Vflj11a3B1ga7KXQrDp-0VH_Au_RmjN1zlwSH9d_OvX3s5eyncurkyMCYEWc0b9Zef1N5dbIl-lU5OhrrgHTyudHGTAYE/s320/20131005_150403.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is Vltava River, not the Danube..with Charles Bridge in the distance</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">On our second day, a quick connecting flight brought us to the ancient capital of Czech Republic..Prague or Praha. Weather was sunny, with brisk chilly wind reminding us that it's autumn after all. Apparently the town is always brimming with tourists from all over the world, eager to explore the castle, the bridge and the clock. </span><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiELyHp1icbu2v_jk7ay2J1c6anSApIphRmI1sW04gXprV-IZYaAOXRUqphWt8_YGdajHs_FLnpgxzRp98sF8jjPwA-zyQ8sSGP9nEX_BeGTFg1cfHdEgt6zcOr_foVXfcbA5_xhMjY9Pk/s1600/IMG_0266.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiELyHp1icbu2v_jk7ay2J1c6anSApIphRmI1sW04gXprV-IZYaAOXRUqphWt8_YGdajHs_FLnpgxzRp98sF8jjPwA-zyQ8sSGP9nEX_BeGTFg1cfHdEgt6zcOr_foVXfcbA5_xhMjY9Pk/s320/IMG_0266.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Elegant houses of Prague</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Prague castle looms large over the city's skyline with the spires and buttresses of St Vitus cathedral piercing the blue sky. This is the largest medieval castle in the world according to lonely planet if you count the entire corner of Hradcany as part of the castle. To me, the abandoned castle with no actual inhabitant or a royal family is such a melancholic relic. </span><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUHHV7eB-liOCrvrphRlE-mB4XIvQe-lDRXsYKq6WuEsr4DTrMIUKwN1b-psn6IBm_vWMx9asWRUMwf902IZdg42Ydu602RYP9s06H7hD4bgGP5l0NuWWAec0UFAZ_2VyBVkqC5DETukQ/s1600/IMG_0272.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUHHV7eB-liOCrvrphRlE-mB4XIvQe-lDRXsYKq6WuEsr4DTrMIUKwN1b-psn6IBm_vWMx9asWRUMwf902IZdg42Ydu602RYP9s06H7hD4bgGP5l0NuWWAec0UFAZ_2VyBVkqC5DETukQ/s320/IMG_0272.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Smaller bridges of Prague</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Charles bridge across the Vltava river, on the other hand, seems so lively and functional as it spans the giant question-shaped waterway that is the lifeline of Prague since it's foundation by princess Libuse.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQT_unaIqpkLrW3006-Gtm0kikfm-WWKkGryADoJ5xlo1t01y5LGvK0HMHZei-6hzsld8YLH1cM5jlHUz8t0Pi3Ia96ywGpNBMqV9LoVKMC4c1J2oQHLvZHmjzrmYXkTc2hqhNIAs4RPI/s1600/2013-10-05+15.11.00.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQT_unaIqpkLrW3006-Gtm0kikfm-WWKkGryADoJ5xlo1t01y5LGvK0HMHZei-6hzsld8YLH1cM5jlHUz8t0Pi3Ia96ywGpNBMqV9LoVKMC4c1J2oQHLvZHmjzrmYXkTc2hqhNIAs4RPI/s320/2013-10-05+15.11.00.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from the riverbanks of Vltava River, Prague</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Steamers, ferries, paddleboats gently sailed from the riverbanks as we strolled slowly pass the meandering waters. Alas, the inevitable jet lag overtook us and we retired early into our hotel on the Katerinska in the Nove mesto.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKHMey3Y9zr1YmKne78fZbiUg3Es3MB4R2d1tyTK0dRHls16mdRb7ajvtGdIcQAthfsGfjck85vQ_LIqlAWRjDg4dyY_LOEdmlKgyTEdzKuV5A63gB_DQCJuNhByxzlpgOjHgvXPvC9_A/s1600/2013-10-05+15.37.37.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKHMey3Y9zr1YmKne78fZbiUg3Es3MB4R2d1tyTK0dRHls16mdRb7ajvtGdIcQAthfsGfjck85vQ_LIqlAWRjDg4dyY_LOEdmlKgyTEdzKuV5A63gB_DQCJuNhByxzlpgOjHgvXPvC9_A/s320/2013-10-05+15.37.37.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Malostranska subway station, Prague</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
After all, we were looking forward to our first time on European trains. So, bright and early on the third day of our sojourn, we say hi to stately, proud Vienna with majestic Habsburg castles, museums and pretty parks bathed in stunning autumnal colours.... </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpq68NZ0-2GOfDr03zAN32iOmlULY3xZ9o453RFzSwdNtycGa1nMqjCZbsecXn6gwVRzmznBHIJPUerBJyVDZI2QJk9rR5WcZ0QyEwhVbwjUxI0CetcJyhnGCU2aly0UhahLf8m8X16rw/s1600/2013-10-06+17.54.11.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpq68NZ0-2GOfDr03zAN32iOmlULY3xZ9o453RFzSwdNtycGa1nMqjCZbsecXn6gwVRzmznBHIJPUerBJyVDZI2QJk9rR5WcZ0QyEwhVbwjUxI0CetcJyhnGCU2aly0UhahLf8m8X16rw/s320/2013-10-06+17.54.11.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Habsburg Castle complex, Vienna, Austria</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
to be continued...</div>
</span><div class="blogger-post-footer"><!--nuffnang -->
<script type='text/javascript'>
nuffnang_bid = "9dcd1c2617bc560566e0dd3317a7b141";
</script>
<script type="text/javascript" src="http://synad2.nuffnang.com.my/j.js"></script>
<!--nuffnang--></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13639455328859316496noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5104984232173079557.post-73736011927002926482013-06-22T11:44:00.001+08:002013-06-22T17:35:51.178+08:00Haze Myth: PSI vs Visibility vs PM2.5<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Rumours abound in times of trouble...and its' human nature to 'panic' and fear the unknown or unnatural. As a medical doctor and recent public health graduate, sometimes we see things differently through broader lenses. Rational, educated mind is a good defense against irrational feelings and emotions. Despite what our eyes tell us, let us focus on creating solutions and calming those around us, instead of creating more anger and fear. That's why I was quite impressed with what PM Lee said recently regarding this crisis - no megaphone diplomacy for this statesman.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Firstly, the PSI has been adopted in Singapore to give the public an<strong> up-to-date information on the air quality</strong> in this country, as opposed to the different indices used in US, Malaysia, etc. It's a composite of various substances in the air which may cause harm to the human body if we are exposed to it in significant concentration, depending on what is your health status. A normal healthy adult obviously could tolerate the pollutants a bit better than a sickly person, the young and the old. However, if you are exposed to it in <strong>significant amounts over a prolonged duration</strong>, there may be both short and long-term effects.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie6pnFQwYHbRlZWAlpjG5VGAIYXypccrVNDQLoocKJ0Mk0P0MNRz0mDBtlzQ0WoNNBreFTnofr8ig-FTDTLO4rE-ItrqPCaOfwnf608qNNAPJldEONYWwHayASvt0sQjyfzVGj73VNOuQ/s1600/haze+on+22.9.13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie6pnFQwYHbRlZWAlpjG5VGAIYXypccrVNDQLoocKJ0Mk0P0MNRz0mDBtlzQ0WoNNBreFTnofr8ig-FTDTLO4rE-ItrqPCaOfwnf608qNNAPJldEONYWwHayASvt0sQjyfzVGj73VNOuQ/s1600/haze+on+22.9.13.jpg" height="180" width="320" wya="true" /></a></div>
<br />
Secondly, I would say of all the pollutants being reported, the most insidious and hardest to clear from our body is the <strong>PM2.5 particulate which is lodged in our alveoli</strong>. These particulates are suspended in the air, but invisible to the naked eye and odourless. When its consistently high (as reported by various authorities), it can cause long-term lung damages, especially lung fibrosis in the future. Not now. What's happening now is the sequelae of direct irritants in the air, to our airway - sore throat, cough, asthma attacks, shortness of breath, conjunctivitis, headache etc. It's usually a brief episode unless the hazy condition persists.<br />
<br />
Thirdly, staying indoors is a good advice, provided that you have air purifier or a good working air-conditioner with functional air filter. Indoor air quality can be worsened if u open the doors/windows intermittently and trap the haze within the closed compound. Especially for those susceptible to the effects of haze, please take precautions - wear a well-fitted N95 mask properly whenever u are exposed to hazy outdoor air but do not hoard. <strong>There are more than enough masks around - just be patient and resourceful. Visibility is not equivalent to high PSI. Check the official results regularly to be well-informed.</strong><br />
<br />
Lastly, public health problems require public health solutions...it has be long-term sustainable solutions, tackling the root causes and not just a one-off assistance. Short term measures like creating rain artificially or fighting the fire are temporary measures. We have to work together to tackle the root causes of why these fires are started at the first place. Eradicate poverty, improve on peat-fire surveillance, tighten legislations and change this burning practice. <strong>This is a man-made calamity, which means, we can work together to eradicate the cause and not point fingers.</strong> Empty vessels are of no help now. Human behaviour may be hard to change, but it's not impossible. The collaborative task-force should be sustained long-term and not hastily convened at the sight of trouble. <strong>Prevention is better than cure</strong>....<br />
<br />
Meanwhile, continue to keep calm, drink lotsa water and pray on. <br />
<br />
Caveat: This article is purely personal opinion and doesn't amount of professional medical advice. Please seek a doctor's consultation if you are suffering from the effects of haze. Thank u.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><!--nuffnang -->
<script type='text/javascript'>
nuffnang_bid = "9dcd1c2617bc560566e0dd3317a7b141";
</script>
<script type="text/javascript" src="http://synad2.nuffnang.com.my/j.js"></script>
<!--nuffnang--></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13639455328859316496noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5104984232173079557.post-49913445919252684182013-06-17T21:19:00.003+08:002013-06-17T21:20:12.444+08:00Rediscovering the famous noodles of Malaysia Part 1<div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Sometimes I feel that I kinda neglect talking about the wonderful food I grew up with. Short of making atonement (i.e. constructing the dish myself), I've decided to dedicate this entire post (in all its' brief glory) to the wonderful heritage of hawker food in Malaysia. Starting with my beloved hometown/city, KL.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2w_yUwv76IOYSdh1FWHQQwdVNvlXkSjAkZHa2q9XC8mHTf3Tu3Q4CY5uRRSp4RcrQL-CBt-WQxk53PGZc3uM1yGmpV9DiVVeijMw38i-Qc4Rm9_BK_fKWRgkJgvBAS0A7O3XSFep13Mg/s1600/pork+ball+noodle+close+up.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" cya="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2w_yUwv76IOYSdh1FWHQQwdVNvlXkSjAkZHa2q9XC8mHTf3Tu3Q4CY5uRRSp4RcrQL-CBt-WQxk53PGZc3uM1yGmpV9DiVVeijMw38i-Qc4Rm9_BK_fKWRgkJgvBAS0A7O3XSFep13Mg/s1600/pork+ball+noodle+close+up.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Go Google Imbi Pork... and immediately this foodstall (Imbi Pork Ball Noodle) at Win Heng Seng corner coffee shop pops up. Numerous posts have been dedicated to this scrumptious concoction. How I even begin to describe this delicacy - the soft, smooth rice noodle bathed in dark, savoury gravy to the robust, flavoursome minced-pork laced with plenty of fiery Sarawakian white pepper and finely-chopped spring onions...ah, my mouth still salivates at the thought of this Michelin-star worthy dish. IMHO, it ranks quite high up the top 10 food in Malaysia, sitting up there among the Penang CKT at Lorong Selamat, Hokkien Mee, etc. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj320GVeDjKW2flNJbBdAOl42gXLO8n7vAUFHuS5blYpN4q7pRmp3hmdY_S8K8C5tRylOInWUN_VYhkCs6biBJ2a3FotRv5lyq3P0X9NLm9GOsofz0HXSoQq7z1fBQ1eXXiLASY3lbzwlo/s1600/close+up+of+soup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" cya="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj320GVeDjKW2flNJbBdAOl42gXLO8n7vAUFHuS5blYpN4q7pRmp3hmdY_S8K8C5tRylOInWUN_VYhkCs6biBJ2a3FotRv5lyq3P0X9NLm9GOsofz0HXSoQq7z1fBQ1eXXiLASY3lbzwlo/s1600/close+up+of+soup.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
The perfect accompaniment to the white ribbons of delicious kway teow is usually this bowl of peppery soup made from some secret-broth. Especially if you order the 'dry' bowl. It's not easy to find this springy, dense near-perfect chu-yok-yun (pork ball) and Chinese sausage gently floating in the amazing broth. Therefore, it's unsurprising that the crowd is often-time huge despite the fierce heat and lack of proper seats/ventilation. Go and experience this heritage-food before another huge corporation gobbles up this recipe or company & ended up having (inferior) franchises in malls and airports, ok? YY said that he would drive 400+ km from Singapore just to have this for lunch and then go back. Sort of a foodies' mini-pilgrimage in lieu of even further distance to another food-mecca (Penang).<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLUXurH22zI5oNPjyeFvaOPfqjuyCRqWprYNq9YOAZT55dPyO4k5domz2egDL22VnHdl1eRH5yz7NlrYvhDcNI9i2ZWswa2BZV4hCyfBYFWNNG0yZ3L_IqR8HhQERTKqugCHFXmaFfFW8/s1600/tangkak+beef+noodle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" cya="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLUXurH22zI5oNPjyeFvaOPfqjuyCRqWprYNq9YOAZT55dPyO4k5domz2egDL22VnHdl1eRH5yz7NlrYvhDcNI9i2ZWswa2BZV4hCyfBYFWNNG0yZ3L_IqR8HhQERTKqugCHFXmaFfFW8/s1600/tangkak+beef+noodle.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
There was also another kind of noodles I grow up with. Along the North-South Expressway, there lies a small town called Tangkak. To most people, this one-lane settlement is famous for Mount Ophir but I've recently discovered that this town is equally well-known for its myriad of emporiums selling all sorts of fabrics, especially curtains. And a type of noodles called herbal beef soup noodles popularized by Kuang Fei off the main road of Tangkak.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGoVM3NpQVcEUCEv3vISAFt-FY9uz0jkFmKzfK7_Ejip32NmUn_4n1oUF9yTxAbFwsEZlR-8xRlnqynO9zbwpjH6ST3tZc8rG3AWpXuMdXJufIdCwkA-U6ttRXC64HIMUVgSNZk0CSkyY/s1600/tangkak+beef+noodle+close+up.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" cya="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGoVM3NpQVcEUCEv3vISAFt-FY9uz0jkFmKzfK7_Ejip32NmUn_4n1oUF9yTxAbFwsEZlR-8xRlnqynO9zbwpjH6ST3tZc8rG3AWpXuMdXJufIdCwkA-U6ttRXC64HIMUVgSNZk0CSkyY/s1600/tangkak+beef+noodle+close+up.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<div align="left">
</div>
<div align="left">
It's probably true that we Chinese can probably eat anything with the back facing the sun. Each part of the cow's anatomy could be used for multi-purpose cooking and this bowl of perfectly-balanced meehoon soup is the prime example of it. What amazes me most is that there is the extremely juicy beef meat-cubes mixed with all sorts of 'innards' that resembled something I took out in the OT the other day. Stuff of legend. If you are yearning for a hearty bowl of beef noodles and wouldn't taking a detour on the NSE, do drop by this flagship store at Jalan Solok, Tangkak for the most yummy, value-for-money noodles this side of the country. You'll love it!</div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer"><!--nuffnang -->
<script type='text/javascript'>
nuffnang_bid = "9dcd1c2617bc560566e0dd3317a7b141";
</script>
<script type="text/javascript" src="http://synad2.nuffnang.com.my/j.js"></script>
<!--nuffnang--></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13639455328859316496noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5104984232173079557.post-85069252927242511192013-05-14T19:05:00.000+08:002013-05-14T19:07:06.827+08:00This is being grateful...my Phuket escapade<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
"What do you mean by you cannot check us in? We have a flight to catch!"</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And there goes my vacation...actually, the end of my vacation. Being stuck on the dreamy vacation touristy island of Phuket ain't too bad, just that the airport was abysmal and I need to get back to Singapore (there is always some life-saving business to attend to, u see)...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgZlBxKcGutt0iXtpXhMqPAPQ_0zNQS2J7zedz8wsvw_GZoMfab6jJlCuOPgMHWJkfvghDUBWRf5UdRD2-6-I3TYmDdOLksjzK6IedtCpHRmM5ZQQxkM5QtIuBWtuLDX4ARuKhrkM7G3Q/s1600/2013-04-21+18.31.06.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgZlBxKcGutt0iXtpXhMqPAPQ_0zNQS2J7zedz8wsvw_GZoMfab6jJlCuOPgMHWJkfvghDUBWRf5UdRD2-6-I3TYmDdOLksjzK6IedtCpHRmM5ZQQxkM5QtIuBWtuLDX4ARuKhrkM7G3Q/s320/2013-04-21+18.31.06.jpg" height="62" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Anyway, the extremely hectic month of April (yes, the duo terror of exams and research report) was interspersed with this gift from our hotel in KL. We flew to Phuket for a pre-wedding photoshoot with one of the most eminent photographer in the wedding circle in Malaysia, remarkably un-prepared and casual for 2 OCDs. Needless to say, being spontaneous means we thoroughly enjoyed our care-free, unpretentious cheerful photo-session - with major credits to the ever-professional Jim Liaw and team. <br />
<br />
I suspected I may have sabotaged myself by getting an outfit totally unsuitable for my shape/size but who cares when you are actually enjoying a photoshoot - and to be truthful...it has been a long, long time since I've gotten so much of fun in front of the camera (normally we're the ones behind it!). Of course there was this fleeting sense of envy when I saw how the other beautiful brides looked in their long, flowing bridal dress but all sense of inadequacy was washed away on the remarkably warm, clear seas of Kata beach as we jumped into the water during our final shot; totally splashed sand all over the semi-formal attire. Ah, the bliss of thrashing a dress in the sea. Hahaha!<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsdN15fwDqQYa4Rjmrum0idyZyqhKrJBfbuStHQfF_ZhBrgel39mY2wsfGdtEXd6MwZgXz8EKTL8QmcSJuMdUp6GlCKihFvSAcAG_r2ccXva3-enkeHDqzyNGlXv9b9nX3LEedNIZj5rU/s1600/2013-04-23+10.11.09.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsdN15fwDqQYa4Rjmrum0idyZyqhKrJBfbuStHQfF_ZhBrgel39mY2wsfGdtEXd6MwZgXz8EKTL8QmcSJuMdUp6GlCKihFvSAcAG_r2ccXva3-enkeHDqzyNGlXv9b9nX3LEedNIZj5rU/s320/2013-04-23+10.11.09.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Thailand is of course well known for flowers and upon arrival to Hilton Arcadia Phuket, we noticed there were fresh flowers everywhere. We asked for some as accessories and we were immediately given some. Thumbs-up to Hilton hospitality!<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4-FL1refshFhWvhGDdw8waHuBNKlHAR4TaZWLH-XliVa2znSoDecFEnOhOhBJR5r_EwtWmS4XBGgBC-5L9ugUrYEfK27Rls4q6C1fpGT_RCLVBWAh_jwAWVJH6i7sSiuInjfVklmoDeg/s1600/DSC_6134.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4-FL1refshFhWvhGDdw8waHuBNKlHAR4TaZWLH-XliVa2znSoDecFEnOhOhBJR5r_EwtWmS4XBGgBC-5L9ugUrYEfK27Rls4q6C1fpGT_RCLVBWAh_jwAWVJH6i7sSiuInjfVklmoDeg/s320/DSC_6134.JPG" height="211" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
The flight to the island was extremely pleasant and we were the first couple to arrive as we travelled on an earlier flight from Singapore. Weather seemed excellent in early April. Only rained on the last day as we leave the island.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3HHewIEhf090aowcp0mBCI4CNvz7tVikKSiv16Ks6FsGVMy_LHWa35OREDP7g5DyfAFtH78YG4cUKm_91lKHyFIiFjs_JkeJsGecCNKT-pz7TjVEdO0BlR1uGDwNjWMJHGx3B4_SlpEc/s1600/DSC_6135.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3HHewIEhf090aowcp0mBCI4CNvz7tVikKSiv16Ks6FsGVMy_LHWa35OREDP7g5DyfAFtH78YG4cUKm_91lKHyFIiFjs_JkeJsGecCNKT-pz7TjVEdO0BlR1uGDwNjWMJHGx3B4_SlpEc/s320/DSC_6135.JPG" height="211" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
We were armed with not one but TWO lonely planet book on Islands & Beaches of Thailand, and a special laminated map of Phuket for the remaining part of the trip. Highly-recommend the map. The books aren't that helpful, to be fair.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5ciJKk-Wvq3jBX_2QwjVq2o1gMoRPBTUc0ZwWLzJwdxgudkrWIFbg-jStLilEiRBErgl-FyWJppbIb9mn8phMri4wBJ75ICyIxo6HBnLDCR_avHn8jLwovlCWOdA0e41i_c0ThUmfQlg/s1600/DSC_6182.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5ciJKk-Wvq3jBX_2QwjVq2o1gMoRPBTUc0ZwWLzJwdxgudkrWIFbg-jStLilEiRBErgl-FyWJppbIb9mn8phMri4wBJ75ICyIxo6HBnLDCR_avHn8jLwovlCWOdA0e41i_c0ThUmfQlg/s320/DSC_6182.JPG" height="211" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
This is the (in)famous Patong beach - sun, surf and sex(trade) all souped-up in a heady haven of hedonism. This is where I learnt the phrase ping-pong but didn't see the show. We also noticed the amount of male tourists outnumbering everyone else in this town.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVV01K_mAXb_S80kgSpKxq2keTDR_gCeJoYoxupbDspmvOptsr9r5YRoI-IwmALjNIOoMoJx9Ix-dDzZ3ULyaSkvskqZ_vS_zltAhcQfdozDh7_RFta5vyi5EfVh3yNhAX7w-HwNyyzoY/s1600/DSC_6186.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVV01K_mAXb_S80kgSpKxq2keTDR_gCeJoYoxupbDspmvOptsr9r5YRoI-IwmALjNIOoMoJx9Ix-dDzZ3ULyaSkvskqZ_vS_zltAhcQfdozDh7_RFta5vyi5EfVh3yNhAX7w-HwNyyzoY/s320/DSC_6186.JPG" height="211" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
It was also the Phuket Motorcycle week so the whole town was jam-packed with tourists, bikers and their accompaniments (read:hot bikes & gals).<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9nbsjtSOPfHtSAMY2Z4VpfMuvFyiPB8E5yAt-F-o5qKQGhy6FNrS2ETpplgel3eOsxXt6ZimdSeLuSVZucLzlTqdEJEZ4cL8lvZY73hDZhf6XK4eCisXSw3znpM5mLkj0RB3-AJMAW-w/s1600/DSC_6192.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9nbsjtSOPfHtSAMY2Z4VpfMuvFyiPB8E5yAt-F-o5qKQGhy6FNrS2ETpplgel3eOsxXt6ZimdSeLuSVZucLzlTqdEJEZ4cL8lvZY73hDZhf6XK4eCisXSw3znpM5mLkj0RB3-AJMAW-w/s320/DSC_6192.JPG" height="211" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<br />
In the meanwhile, i also took one whole day off to settle some work - sounded crazy - but I was supposed to hand-in some assignments right during the vacation. The mysteries of life as a hyperactive cilipadidoctor ain't easy :-P</div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcW0R2dyueyLmd8zi8_rw9pgwBzUC_LWjnqATVoRgb2KrDamHke3ObF192szgyZM9iNCF4LMFu2TxY7wbOZwHM-cV8BjptijrnMbv99MnCa9njiDV5iKlIJfFgU-eEomUJ7DmKXI8rxkM/s1600/DSC_6332.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcW0R2dyueyLmd8zi8_rw9pgwBzUC_LWjnqATVoRgb2KrDamHke3ObF192szgyZM9iNCF4LMFu2TxY7wbOZwHM-cV8BjptijrnMbv99MnCa9njiDV5iKlIJfFgU-eEomUJ7DmKXI8rxkM/s320/DSC_6332.JPG" height="211" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
As a reward, we went to Phang-Nga bay. Initially, we thought we could do some sea-kayaking. Turned out that the majority of the arm-work was done by the Thai guides while we lounge about in the kayak. At least we managed to do some canoeing at the end of the 'cruise' but it is not the same as Halong Bay, I can assure you. I was mildly disappointed. I guess I missed how we travelled from one mini-island to another in Vietnam. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7oFny8L_b9XVhYFmd-EpV9biAKru68Uk1c4g1-ojslEcrv3l07fzJkOawVSxULJjo06CwzLaswQquZuv4GV3EQuyYSyZYBICm7_ZBEQT34qgySVuoPzwKktPPhQO3RcBZGJ4MXGcVZSA/s1600/DSC_6346.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7oFny8L_b9XVhYFmd-EpV9biAKru68Uk1c4g1-ojslEcrv3l07fzJkOawVSxULJjo06CwzLaswQquZuv4GV3EQuyYSyZYBICm7_ZBEQT34qgySVuoPzwKktPPhQO3RcBZGJ4MXGcVZSA/s320/DSC_6346.JPG" height="211" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
IMHO, Halong Bay is a lot larger than Phang-Nga and somehow more authentic. If you come from a land far-away, I would suggest going to Halong rather than this area. I think there are a lot more hawkers in Phang-Nga as well and the food at the Muslim sea-village sucks.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY92lBK5e6giUY0ZQOxDBrkVq37mA0O6DrbU9R8OnSYDdp74WNRN-b-MaF87OPWTQ1D9N8NA4j43QKBXQFONq-cmoCEnc-xGlD1nse4LdQOtAMrQ-FQD55mM4vuJD564qaClVmanynkBA/s1600/DSC_6356.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY92lBK5e6giUY0ZQOxDBrkVq37mA0O6DrbU9R8OnSYDdp74WNRN-b-MaF87OPWTQ1D9N8NA4j43QKBXQFONq-cmoCEnc-xGlD1nse4LdQOtAMrQ-FQD55mM4vuJD564qaClVmanynkBA/s320/DSC_6356.JPG" height="211" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
James Bond Island. More famous for its' appearance in the movie rather than anything else. Not much to do here except take a picture of the island, sit back and observe the tourists.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd6-HpfP-3rgzkjN602GSl-o9EeLar6_W1m2pVSKzJPYCamPWNHOQmBHNIbbODLMNRoV9DWgcB5h2OZmoFiTzHAbBVHwjouNkBRK699SDUKqHQ38jU9Ndafe372FoM3ywpgPOKczeL5r8/s1600/DSC_6382.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd6-HpfP-3rgzkjN602GSl-o9EeLar6_W1m2pVSKzJPYCamPWNHOQmBHNIbbODLMNRoV9DWgcB5h2OZmoFiTzHAbBVHwjouNkBRK699SDUKqHQ38jU9Ndafe372FoM3ywpgPOKczeL5r8/s320/DSC_6382.JPG" height="211" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
More islands to gawk at on the way back at the end of the day. This is after we swam on a tiny island. As we leave this really nice island, I would say the airport was a real let-down but everything else was quite good for a short break. I guess I will come again in the future once I get my PADI license refreshed. Apparently, i heard the diving off Phi Phi Island is really good. Anyone's been there?<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0kbhzeJ7qISxcgJphhTNwBYEhUezOKgUAjqVhPuL-qovwYs2m60aLmth3OVuuk081pIDe-SilLvMG_hH5hGIEEAters9YqgO6DhUp7KHqODstyO_AZtR8jqj9jYQbS8z2JBnPjUFR_G0/s1600/DSC_6399.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0kbhzeJ7qISxcgJphhTNwBYEhUezOKgUAjqVhPuL-qovwYs2m60aLmth3OVuuk081pIDe-SilLvMG_hH5hGIEEAters9YqgO6DhUp7KHqODstyO_AZtR8jqj9jYQbS8z2JBnPjUFR_G0/s320/DSC_6399.JPG" height="211" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Caught this aerial view of one the islands in the beautiful Andaman Sea on the way back to Singapore. Time to say goodbye...to a wonderful island escapade in the midst of a crazy month!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><!--nuffnang -->
<script type='text/javascript'>
nuffnang_bid = "9dcd1c2617bc560566e0dd3317a7b141";
</script>
<script type="text/javascript" src="http://synad2.nuffnang.com.my/j.js"></script>
<!--nuffnang--></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13639455328859316496noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5104984232173079557.post-87625854003680328182013-05-11T09:45:00.003+08:002013-05-11T09:46:29.643+08:00Will 'UBAH' sweep through the land?<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;">"<i>You can fool all the people some of the time, and some of the people all the time, but you cannot fool all the people all the time.</i>" - A Lincoln.</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;"><br /></span><br />
<br />
Change is inevitable. When there is a clarion call for change, a chain of action is unleashed, whether for the better or for worse. In a way, change can be more devastating to a mammoth organization that is unwilling or unable to embrace change, forever mired in the status quo.<br />
<br />
Events of the past 1 week in Malaysia has strongly indicated that the behemoth called National Front (BN) has been rejected by the majority of the urban population, heralding a wave of change across the nation. From black 505, to the inspirational black Wednesday, emotions are running high on how best to dethrone a government supported by the minority.<br />
<br />
However, we must put on our thinking cap and reflect on both side of the political divide. BN has a big armamentarium of national resources due to 56 years of uninterrupted rule over a blessed, resourceful land. Is the People's Alliance (PR) ready to challenge the 'Death Star', a juggernaut firmly entrenched in the ideologies of yesteryears, the ideology of divide-and-rule? Until and unless the evil doctrine left behind by our so-called colonial masters half a century ago is firmly eradicated, we cannot move forward. According to the principles of root cause analysis, we cannot improve unless we look into the system and eradicate the root causes. Otherwise, we are only treating the symptoms and not the disease, the root issues.<br />
<br />
Is the opposition without it's faults and fallacy too? We are all human with feet of clay, fallible and humble creatures. Of course the vast majority of their supporters know that too, but from the events in KJ Stadium, where the unity of all people are on show, PR is on the way to unite, instead of divide-and-rule. Their leaders ain't perfect, and as human, we will never be.<br />
<br />
Yet, we are firmly behind them because of the hope they represent. Normal reticent Malaysians are no longer waiting patiently at the backstage. We are ready to take on the juggernaut at a higher level. We are ready to be a beacon of hope and change in a region filled with entrenched monopoly of power in various countries. We are ready to be a mature democracy, with a clean electoral commissions and fair judiciary. We are ready to experience sound, transparent governance and eradication of the silent apartheid.<br />
<br />
How about the other root causes? I would say it's economic and social development. If our rural friends are in different stages of development, both socially and economically, who are we to blame? We can only blame ourselves for years of apathy, for letting our fellow Malaysians struggle in making daily living. We can only blame ourselves for electing the current government into power over the past 12 elections. The political divide is only reflective of the social divide we have let ourselves drift into over the years. Public outcry and demonstrations are the loudspeakers, but empty vessels make the loudest sounds. Action speaks louder than words. Action needs to be translated into tangible results.<br />
<br />
My dear fellow Malaysians, go into every corner of the country and reconcile. Not only to reconcile the political differences but tackle the root causes. The government may be illegitimate in the eyes of many, but long periods of instability would only make our country weaker and exposed to external danger. I plead to the leaders on both side of the political divide to decide maturely, wisely, peacefully and for the good of the people. For in the end, what we hope for is the peace, freedom and prosperity of our country.<br />
<br />
"<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;"><i>Government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the Earth</i>." - A Lincoln.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;">The article began and ended with quotes from President Abraham Lincoln, one of my favourite leaders of all time. Let the change to a better government begin, from the hearts of the people, the cries on the streets to the mightiest palaces of the land.</span><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><!--nuffnang -->
<script type='text/javascript'>
nuffnang_bid = "9dcd1c2617bc560566e0dd3317a7b141";
</script>
<script type="text/javascript" src="http://synad2.nuffnang.com.my/j.js"></script>
<!--nuffnang--></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13639455328859316496noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5104984232173079557.post-52305247702943812672013-05-02T12:34:00.000+08:002013-05-02T12:34:06.794+08:00DO YOU HEAR THE PEOPLE SING?This is really an out-of the blue post. Probably not gonna put any pictures. I'm not sure when I'll have the courage to post this up. Maybe today is the day. I mean, why wait another 5 years?<br />
<br />
I spent 90% of my life in KL, another 5% in Perak and another 5% in Singapore. My entire biological family is still in Malaysia. Although I'm not residing in Malaysia now, I'm definitely coming back to stand in the queue on 5th May 2013 in my polling station and exercise my rights as a citizen. Yes, INI KALILAH!<br />
<br />
My appeal is for those of you who are registered Malaysian voter - please make arrangements to come back to vote. There is so much of fraud and intimidation ongoing that we need to make the voice of truth be heard. We don't want to go the way of violence or chaos. We want a peaceful, clean elections.<br />
<br />
Civilizations rise and fall. A government ruling in a hegemony that lasted for more than 5 decades has bogged itself down with internal and external strife, corruption and divisive policies. From a promising country endowed with natural resources and beautiful people, we now have questionable governance and policy, leading to massive financial losses, security breaches, rising crime rate and pathetic brain drains.<br />
<br />
International spotlight will be cast upon this Southeast Asian nation this Sunday. Is hope still alive? Looking at some unbiased report online, it seems so. Hope is alive. Hope for the future. Hope against the archaic, divisive policies akin to silent apartheid in Asia. Hope rings eternal.<br />
<br />
Of course, a promise made must eventually turn to a promise kept. As this final, rousing theme song from Les Miserables keep on ringing in my head, let the song of angry men be the song of righteous men in the hallowed halls of Putrajaya, come 6th May 2013.<br />
<br />
Let us humble ourselves and pray for the right decisions to be made by the 13 million people. Godspeed, leaders with integrity and honour!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><!--nuffnang -->
<script type='text/javascript'>
nuffnang_bid = "9dcd1c2617bc560566e0dd3317a7b141";
</script>
<script type="text/javascript" src="http://synad2.nuffnang.com.my/j.js"></script>
<!--nuffnang--></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13639455328859316496noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5104984232173079557.post-51949846224662674202013-04-17T12:16:00.004+08:002013-04-17T12:17:04.390+08:00Hakka Yong Tau Foo: Lost and found in SG!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Yes, I found it...real tasty YTF in Singapore. All the way in the East though.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnxKhIdltHbzVO26TKM7pMAf6ol4mCsZItTW1Z5EkKLN9fXW4NlvKnCd8CDGUxQhwsGh2eTZE1sVbI90-vhTkaTME426z1TPkM9-dZ5r3St779HwZ8R4I0z8GkCUDdAPWW2CU7viK7VVQ/s1600/2013-03-30+13.07.05.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnxKhIdltHbzVO26TKM7pMAf6ol4mCsZItTW1Z5EkKLN9fXW4NlvKnCd8CDGUxQhwsGh2eTZE1sVbI90-vhTkaTME426z1TPkM9-dZ5r3St779HwZ8R4I0z8GkCUDdAPWW2CU7viK7VVQ/s1600/2013-03-30+13.07.05.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
The raw fish (first dish shown) was awesome - better than any sashimi u could find if u are into funky Chinese-style sashimi seasoned with bountiful amount of sesame oil and chinese parsley.<br />
<br />
Basically, growing up with home-made YTF of the highest quality (thanx to my lovely nanny) means that I'm very picky when it comes to the fish paste used as stuffing. Sometimes, it's just too flat, and other times, too flour-y. So far, the hawker centres here are just barely passing the grade. Therefore, I have been yearning for a place with good-quality fish paste for the past few years.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihAUoaOzz0yiVw0y4qOktzl4V8huLHjAs6Vq0xVV-HdS3M3nP97l6rJuPP3DQj-5J56XGtjlhp_JZnZI2Fq9RW910BvxFOsHb7IBe5svBYvxYQvMvc1NWMsj07ts-yK6J6soz0_i4hfvE/s1600/2013-03-30+13.06.50.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihAUoaOzz0yiVw0y4qOktzl4V8huLHjAs6Vq0xVV-HdS3M3nP97l6rJuPP3DQj-5J56XGtjlhp_JZnZI2Fq9RW910BvxFOsHb7IBe5svBYvxYQvMvc1NWMsj07ts-yK6J6soz0_i4hfvE/s1600/2013-03-30+13.06.50.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div>
I've found it! This store Goldhill Hakka Yong Tau Foo at Changi Road is situated next to the Simpang Yong Tau Foo which was formerly of Simpang Bedok fame. When we arrived, this store was jam-packed with customers compared to the latter, hence the obvious choice. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
What I love about the food is that not only it's tasty, it's quite nutritious too. We didn't order any rice but satisfied our carbs craving by the Hakka Yam Abacus, which is my comfort food while growing up. The fish paste was tasty but still not 100% up to mark as they over-processed the paste, thus making it taste slightly 'flat'. Nevertheless, I appreciated the authentic taste and don't mind having this again (Having found my heritage-food after such a long search, I'm a happy bunny now haha!) </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Anyway, my favourite dish in this restaurant? Has to be the yam-abacus dish that reminded me of my childhood. Next top recommendation is the yu sheng (raw fish)....looking forward to trying more dishes here (the clams, seafood, mixed vegetable, etc) in this fuss-free restaurant. Hardly any service but a lot of good food indeed!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<em style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; line-height: 16px;">Address: Goldhill Hakka Restaurant</em><span style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 16px;"> 299A Changi Road </span><em style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; line-height: 16px;">Singapore</em><span style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 16px;"> 419777. 11.30am-4pm daily (Closed Mondays).</span></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer"><!--nuffnang -->
<script type='text/javascript'>
nuffnang_bid = "9dcd1c2617bc560566e0dd3317a7b141";
</script>
<script type="text/javascript" src="http://synad2.nuffnang.com.my/j.js"></script>
<!--nuffnang--></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13639455328859316496noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5104984232173079557.post-65888911858676672302013-03-31T16:29:00.000+08:002013-03-31T16:29:04.666+08:00Bonjour, Au Petit Salut<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
My purported other life in cyberspace is supposedly a food-blogger. I've not found great fame & fortune in this line of 'work'; in fact, out of so many doctor-foodies that blog about food, I'm probably languishing in the bottom few positions. I'd lament about my lack of time till the cows come home, but the actual excuse is that, I'm often time too hungry by the time I reach a restaurant...thus the official explanation is that mua gobbled up the food before I could capture any photographs of it. The mortal sin of food-blogging? Yup. Tsk, tsk..I know.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcrmNTbK-_h44oDjGNtz7QV7woz_W7vo3OD91erwblabPaFbclaISaXsrYhd1m8QhjF-mB0edUCT6IISCxGQuKiWWjG4M1a7ankuEGtCE0ahhfsGTmjWXiZA-Xp7I_V_xGqtv__-OOyW4/s1600/2013-03-28+12.12.00.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcrmNTbK-_h44oDjGNtz7QV7woz_W7vo3OD91erwblabPaFbclaISaXsrYhd1m8QhjF-mB0edUCT6IISCxGQuKiWWjG4M1a7ankuEGtCE0ahhfsGTmjWXiZA-Xp7I_V_xGqtv__-OOyW4/s1600/2013-03-28+12.12.00.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Nevertheless, I managed to repent recently. Amidst my colleagues' chagrin (or embarassment), I managed to take photographs of food at this famous French restaurant called Au Petit Salut (APS). I think it's also partly due to the nature of French fine-dining - a lot of time chatting and absorbing the ambience while awaiting the arrival of good food. So, in tribute of fresh beginnings (it's Easter Sunday, a day of resurrection!), I've decided to be a lot more regular in my food blogging habits.<br />
<br />
Back to APS. We went there to throw a farewell party for a much-cherished colleague who is about to return to KL as a 'tai-tai'. Of course, we will miss you J! Please come by to visit us in this little red spot! We'll surely bring you eat good food not available in KL one.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyacCicaXHSx7cwovTjvOOwcp0sMaVg-vBY-gbm_qPTfz-cPj4TT49b728NKFwVLdmT87iRMT6aOm664WAaLKfDi5bdKcq58IFX1_y1_viX40GADeAOVxzhNUoRHBLFhdtm9Yt3nYOoJU/s1600/2013-03-28+12.50.45.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyacCicaXHSx7cwovTjvOOwcp0sMaVg-vBY-gbm_qPTfz-cPj4TT49b728NKFwVLdmT87iRMT6aOm664WAaLKfDi5bdKcq58IFX1_y1_viX40GADeAOVxzhNUoRHBLFhdtm9Yt3nYOoJU/s1600/2013-03-28+12.50.45.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
The 3-course set lunch in APS is priced at an affordable SGD36, with an appetizer, main and dessert (drinks & GST not included). Lunch-time business was brisk, judging by the almost-full house by 1pm. I suspected the clientele to be mostly groups of superbly-dressed housewives (from the nearby Orchard/Coronation area?) and sprinkled in some professional-looking lunch partners.<br />
<br />
As I scrutinized the menu, I quickly decided for a coronary-clogging Burgundy snails with garlic butter and marrow - even the 'tulang' was kept as base/decor for the scrumptious escargots. This is by far the most popular appetizer among the 8 of us.Some of us literally took the plunge - mopping up the garlicky buttery sauce with the free-flow bread. For once, I was 'disciplined/boring' enough not to do the same.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_pcY1en4cIQX8iENY-TQEnn-X7WDLQFvgqUwZQEGfI2incjeRb3egp_1wfQlUwUHiYF4rqoeDW7pKQOWKy1ZhCe43v4X-f4iGoi7qnft5U4qbtdotHquXdXju0i3MVqx9yvqQJiSyU3M/s1600/2013-03-28+12.51.38.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_pcY1en4cIQX8iENY-TQEnn-X7WDLQFvgqUwZQEGfI2incjeRb3egp_1wfQlUwUHiYF4rqoeDW7pKQOWKy1ZhCe43v4X-f4iGoi7qnft5U4qbtdotHquXdXju0i3MVqx9yvqQJiSyU3M/s1600/2013-03-28+12.51.38.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
The other appetizer that caught my eye (but I didn't try) was this very pleasant-looking dish. J took this Spinach & Feta quiche, which is so huge that she was quite full by the time her mains arrived. From the satisfied grin on her face, I knew it was good.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzg7S6frtcMvhHvfvO9DmURySLS2i_HR4wQ3TrHoqOco_vZUtIbsQistXP3DZfFzlM_Gwoz3SGv4hDcIkwhhKev18emQ8M75jNULJjbNWGsxfjwOW0qBKIGS8SsbRK9NiyqPdqMYoJ5zQ/s1600/2013-03-28+13.03.46.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzg7S6frtcMvhHvfvO9DmURySLS2i_HR4wQ3TrHoqOco_vZUtIbsQistXP3DZfFzlM_Gwoz3SGv4hDcIkwhhKev18emQ8M75jNULJjbNWGsxfjwOW0qBKIGS8SsbRK9NiyqPdqMYoJ5zQ/s1600/2013-03-28+13.03.46.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
My main dish was Roast Chicken cooked 'piperade a la Basquaise',a typical Basque dish available in many French restaurants. I like the 'healthy' sounding sauce and red/green peppers accompanying the dish. The chicken is, however, slightly bland and nondescript. I wouldn't order this again, once is enough. As compared to my previous poultry in APS, which is the duck confit, I think I much preferred the duck despite the calories+cholesterol.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtDvd4wIe5QNE4X_dbUOAayOpsR9IsWFZlPgkBkDczIKn83Cb76Ri9X9a-sYgV76X6cUjLsrsbufpgEe64zHRJPXRrldrKfFJeqyBgovCaw9OZsyXi408wye175kAgc3MTGvGNj83lOYI/s1600/2013-03-28+13.03.59.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtDvd4wIe5QNE4X_dbUOAayOpsR9IsWFZlPgkBkDczIKn83Cb76Ri9X9a-sYgV76X6cUjLsrsbufpgEe64zHRJPXRrldrKfFJeqyBgovCaw9OZsyXi408wye175kAgc3MTGvGNj83lOYI/s1600/2013-03-28+13.03.59.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
One of my neighbours ordered the lamb shoulder and it was hearty & tasty. Each dish looks pretty 'small' in contrast to the huge plates, but the reality is that by the time we are halfway through the mains, most of us looked immensely post-prandial.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQKduUR3v7jNph55rCO91bFuWAUigt-DXbjEYfr7QReiM6Y2-k6GREQ-WAU_KuawM71wL3YjnxQv3EdrIk6XfSEDKJl5b9H9b10LhQNZgkOgH36lDdbnhvu0aq3RF0JMjlpnaX3FAloKY/s1600/2013-03-28+13.32.21.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQKduUR3v7jNph55rCO91bFuWAUigt-DXbjEYfr7QReiM6Y2-k6GREQ-WAU_KuawM71wL3YjnxQv3EdrIk6XfSEDKJl5b9H9b10LhQNZgkOgH36lDdbnhvu0aq3RF0JMjlpnaX3FAloKY/s1600/2013-03-28+13.32.21.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Thank God for light desserts..mine was fresh fruit salad infused with mint and served with mango-passion sorbet. It was the perfect ending for a really good meal for me.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHBkoNAd7I2MGoovQuxcW1qj0nfxB57xsFntV_kJM0ILfNT0-qifrvoh5x5UwRKDrVuw1v8-yu_yTIXJD1vX9gMfbYQxhTNDee-9KCfXZ-CAc_xxQY0X_TQWPaLAcNKxNPWBYdSsQSx5U/s1600/2013-03-28+13.32.37.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHBkoNAd7I2MGoovQuxcW1qj0nfxB57xsFntV_kJM0ILfNT0-qifrvoh5x5UwRKDrVuw1v8-yu_yTIXJD1vX9gMfbYQxhTNDee-9KCfXZ-CAc_xxQY0X_TQWPaLAcNKxNPWBYdSsQSx5U/s1600/2013-03-28+13.32.37.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The other neighbour ordered this pretty looking dessert that I frankly craved but had no guts to try (in view of the upcoming photoshoot sessions). I think it was the lemon-chocolate torte with sorbet. I'll probably try this the next time I'm here - b'coz apparently it tasted as good as it looks!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
My verdict for the lunch is: 4/5 for ambience, 4/5 for affordability and 3.5/5 for taste - I guess I wasn't a fan of their poultry (chicken was ok, duck was a bit nicer when I had dinner there)</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Address: Au Petit Salut, 40C Harding Road, Singapore 249548. Tel: 64751976. Online reservations available. I suggest calling ahead to book if you intend to drop by, as the crowd seemed to be picking up... </div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer"><!--nuffnang -->
<script type='text/javascript'>
nuffnang_bid = "9dcd1c2617bc560566e0dd3317a7b141";
</script>
<script type="text/javascript" src="http://synad2.nuffnang.com.my/j.js"></script>
<!--nuffnang--></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13639455328859316496noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5104984232173079557.post-53342573474028216132013-03-10T14:21:00.004+08:002013-03-10T14:21:54.977+08:00Satisfying my right-brain<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Return of the photographs.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Firstly, it was an eventful week. After a bout of food poisoning (no thanx to a certain Western food outlet in Holland, which I have banned from my list of eating-joints) and a day out of action, I've gotten my first rest day in ages (thoroughly<b> away from the hospital </b>for once).</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7uBa_VmPzP4kH2G53qO5RAhyphenhyphen5e25KtlkmYuqrF0ekqzrVrXK7lmYIvEBtxMYzbaD8a0G9l4cVwAJRPmXr8XwXDOdiLDzwHPSuhdgvxSYFxsvqrugjfXYT5cLPccI5uzZ7QsXJZLWO3Fg/s1600/DSC_6077.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7uBa_VmPzP4kH2G53qO5RAhyphenhyphen5e25KtlkmYuqrF0ekqzrVrXK7lmYIvEBtxMYzbaD8a0G9l4cVwAJRPmXr8XwXDOdiLDzwHPSuhdgvxSYFxsvqrugjfXYT5cLPccI5uzZ7QsXJZLWO3Fg/s1600/DSC_6077.JPG" height="211" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Secondly, we decided to indulge on a bit of artsy-fartsy adventure. For the first time, we stepped into the sparkling clean art-gallery cum science museum nicknamed the "Welcoming Hand of Singapore". This hybrid of a lotus flower+human palm is also formally known as the ArtScience Museum, located strategically by the Marina Bay Sands. The price is ok for 2 adults (similar to the price of a movie ticket on a weekend). The entertainment and learning value: priceless.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM6nEhTEFMklamty3P0sZbtIoCEnIBAuvEoAq9NYZmBC_WxCiRwMxQSpUjFkXa4NOtfbwV82lW_zysRErnRQiXRp33sCmv8VWxW-DhQ95RtJAI8VrV3SDMC5qNNvUeoGmkRvZ3_5cgtUU/s1600/DSC_6079.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM6nEhTEFMklamty3P0sZbtIoCEnIBAuvEoAq9NYZmBC_WxCiRwMxQSpUjFkXa4NOtfbwV82lW_zysRErnRQiXRp33sCmv8VWxW-DhQ95RtJAI8VrV3SDMC5qNNvUeoGmkRvZ3_5cgtUU/s1600/DSC_6079.JPG" height="320" width="211" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
One of the most evocative and philosophical piece is this grey sculpture greeting us near the entrance. Entitled "Hands", it's literally every artist (and surgeons) nightmare.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhewiw-a01Ab6M4aPFCB2eOID21zBtf4aDFYqWtoZj4h7x8fw2S4E6VFwMjQUMbEzThZo30n1S8x86VL_Y97r1mmuw9T1ZRVKbGbU89CqnAn_mZi4ueqba11d0nHDkDa5kWYNArH-0eaNU/s1600/DSC_6080.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhewiw-a01Ab6M4aPFCB2eOID21zBtf4aDFYqWtoZj4h7x8fw2S4E6VFwMjQUMbEzThZo30n1S8x86VL_Y97r1mmuw9T1ZRVKbGbU89CqnAn_mZi4ueqba11d0nHDkDa5kWYNArH-0eaNU/s1600/DSC_6080.JPG" height="320" width="211" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
On the other hand, the vibrant "Yellow" screamed out "look at me! I'm pouring my heart out in all that I do. Can't you see that I'm trying my best." It's one of Nathan Sawaya's most famous pieces, highly featured in magazines, news portal, etc.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDqIa6GM3drJD6raeRxk3b5Cf3Vhm_pqy8fTG_pv2ZB6bjb154NvTf00InisEYQsAhxTtJiICT6aBwYnB6MRKaVP9YSBJU-JJ6VzinkJao3GxCiXZIGE6ruNQy_gj_XDUwrp66FhwgvUQ/s1600/DSC_6082.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDqIa6GM3drJD6raeRxk3b5Cf3Vhm_pqy8fTG_pv2ZB6bjb154NvTf00InisEYQsAhxTtJiICT6aBwYnB6MRKaVP9YSBJU-JJ6VzinkJao3GxCiXZIGE6ruNQy_gj_XDUwrp66FhwgvUQ/s1600/DSC_6082.JPG" height="211" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
"Swimmer" is only seen above water thus we are free to interpret whatever goes beneath the water level. Although replica of a human form, it looks strangely like a blue Lego-alien.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmOUUeG3cPTe-168Nf1fUolo_voX0l50JfLh2raSgvLiDXjU4kuLEwODSjqM0rI0lp8RWx1AWHCmoTMSp7jusP97KlDvmPbz9CYpHIcHcIBQHQabZkl0rwizOG1HWR2qV9hLTd6IE7FpU/s1600/DSC_6083.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmOUUeG3cPTe-168Nf1fUolo_voX0l50JfLh2raSgvLiDXjU4kuLEwODSjqM0rI0lp8RWx1AWHCmoTMSp7jusP97KlDvmPbz9CYpHIcHcIBQHQabZkl0rwizOG1HWR2qV9hLTd6IE7FpU/s1600/DSC_6083.JPG" height="320" width="211" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
This is a very good 'collaborative' piece as it's made from thousands of donated Lego bricks forming a multicoloured "Peace". I would say this is a very cheerful, hopeful piece.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3CO9BcSy3A7Eb6tkssz0S_tuzBGj-FOSIktj20F0P_gwkYUEKZJvnVCkKws-3uSo7VhIEDNG8v77PBoiH6BTkvnHQgLU1h_0uUUwQQ442Ouzv5UNLNhsg-ljQ7dv4a3M9gN5RJeBf5LA/s1600/DSC_6096.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3CO9BcSy3A7Eb6tkssz0S_tuzBGj-FOSIktj20F0P_gwkYUEKZJvnVCkKws-3uSo7VhIEDNG8v77PBoiH6BTkvnHQgLU1h_0uUUwQQ442Ouzv5UNLNhsg-ljQ7dv4a3M9gN5RJeBf5LA/s1600/DSC_6096.JPG" height="320" width="211" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
More human-inspired sculptures greeted us as we walked deeper into the exhibition hall. Does this "Thinker" remind you guys of something in London Tate? Yes, you are gazing at a pixelated tribute to Rodin<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1Zm4pdCJZJSVgnZCgx7ml8lBBgOV1ApjUCjK5PeDTGcMYskXyGVf9H_GmnaOJmn-vznGfZgVxhckvdOtzRH6_t2VXI_IibAzI_8FUu_sfUj9pjT2cRWTLj0DJwaC6WNcKdb0DCl9Gk2Q/s1600/DSC_6098.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1Zm4pdCJZJSVgnZCgx7ml8lBBgOV1ApjUCjK5PeDTGcMYskXyGVf9H_GmnaOJmn-vznGfZgVxhckvdOtzRH6_t2VXI_IibAzI_8FUu_sfUj9pjT2cRWTLj0DJwaC6WNcKdb0DCl9Gk2Q/s1600/DSC_6098.JPG" height="320" width="211" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
And one more cutesy "Ladder" to sum up the various art forms inspired by human body.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIp30oteLi3MoGnYr7eZNiDxOJFrUxQFLNMXCzeoxlkSJL0XUR0Gxcb1LKlsPHg9ScQ91BZEZOlPFiYVYhFWZeg5GNtRGw-ZVc8EsVXNImP2RNd55LVvwCZq-c8HutQ9kdjD6lerzzq5M/s1600/DSC_6101.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIp30oteLi3MoGnYr7eZNiDxOJFrUxQFLNMXCzeoxlkSJL0XUR0Gxcb1LKlsPHg9ScQ91BZEZOlPFiYVYhFWZeg5GNtRGw-ZVc8EsVXNImP2RNd55LVvwCZq-c8HutQ9kdjD6lerzzq5M/s1600/DSC_6101.JPG" height="211" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
Aside from 3D sculptures, Mr Sawaya also made 2D portrait from Lego bricks. This is a picture of B Dylan entitled Bob. Notice the resemblance? It's in this section whereby we can also made 2D portraits of ourselves. Interactive displays for children of all ages, u see...<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1inJ47fafK5uEgvsfnvGLik78-lcF_Sx655YPEvxrh1M6L_zfoc1x232hCl7jubn5Bq4CzKZ0g6BeckvCUdW7Rh28RKnztqPtydZKscpR5IxfjKSqztkdK2G3vYQ0ohGow2I1yf4KBKo/s1600/DSC_6105.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1inJ47fafK5uEgvsfnvGLik78-lcF_Sx655YPEvxrh1M6L_zfoc1x232hCl7jubn5Bq4CzKZ0g6BeckvCUdW7Rh28RKnztqPtydZKscpR5IxfjKSqztkdK2G3vYQ0ohGow2I1yf4KBKo/s1600/DSC_6105.JPG" height="320" width="211" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
This "pencil" sculpture is taller the artist. Not only the bricks are wonderful art pieces when put into a genius' hands, what's also quite amazing is that post-construction, he uses special glue to keep the bricks in place. Somehow the Lego remained in position through it all - cranky lorry drivers, air turbulence, cargo planes, children's hands. Yup, has to be once special secret glue to keep it altogether.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXoS9eMYq4_4Snofbg26GdlNYRAfTpLsR8OUb_pMAAyJ9RoqUv9WQmUMdqk8szB-hhMAAlS2GWGbPw5QWRAJz6O57RCp-Xbs70FvOv8FpREDFMGs2wGBpxgFAs9KnVdFlRKPiIWzLBx7w/s1600/DSC_6104.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXoS9eMYq4_4Snofbg26GdlNYRAfTpLsR8OUb_pMAAyJ9RoqUv9WQmUMdqk8szB-hhMAAlS2GWGbPw5QWRAJz6O57RCp-Xbs70FvOv8FpREDFMGs2wGBpxgFAs9KnVdFlRKPiIWzLBx7w/s1600/DSC_6104.JPG" height="320" width="211" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
Another quirky piece inspired by a musician friend of the artist. Notice the perfectly spherical globe behind? Astounding! Creating a globe out of rectangular bricks is indeed spectacular!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRzTGcs0pbS6SJNgImRz9TTz-noFCRBOnFwppuqqCe6bToci7_dIvWX6jyNeqex4mjzGCc4pW-i7RQUXBPMVOKZrzhzQ-c4inbQWcpTATlX8GFsb2PY4HzoTpXqO3A7Q0CqNxMY0VO0dg/s1600/DSC_6111.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRzTGcs0pbS6SJNgImRz9TTz-noFCRBOnFwppuqqCe6bToci7_dIvWX6jyNeqex4mjzGCc4pW-i7RQUXBPMVOKZrzhzQ-c4inbQWcpTATlX8GFsb2PY4HzoTpXqO3A7Q0CqNxMY0VO0dg/s1600/DSC_6111.JPG" height="211" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div>
AH, and the final piece-de-resistance, the sculpture that occupied one entire hall by itself..the Tyrannosaurus made out of 80,020 Lego pieces. Mr Sawaya spent one whole summer concocting this marvellous piece and we really sat down and feasted our eyes upon this piece for some time in tribute to his masterpiece.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
And finally, my verdict on "The Art of The Brick" : <b>catch it in Singapore</b> before it's gone by mid May 2013! You'll definitely enjoy it if you are a Lego devotee like yours truly...</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
For more information, go to http://www.brickartist.com or http://www.marinabaysands.com. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer"><!--nuffnang -->
<script type='text/javascript'>
nuffnang_bid = "9dcd1c2617bc560566e0dd3317a7b141";
</script>
<script type="text/javascript" src="http://synad2.nuffnang.com.my/j.js"></script>
<!--nuffnang--></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13639455328859316496noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5104984232173079557.post-90126589833283747432013-02-19T14:26:00.003+08:002013-02-19T14:26:29.396+08:00As the countdown ticks onOne of the best part about getting married? Preparing for the actual day. The countdown began last year and now we are at the halfway point..another 6-7 months to go before DTTK (Docs Tie the Knot) in Singapore and Kuala Lumpur. I've been enjoying the preparation so far even since we've started executing plan DTTK in Sep 2012. 2 OCDs(obsessive-compulsive doctors) made quite a good team, as long as we are willing to compromise and work together towards a common goal (ahem)<br />
<br />
I love looking at pretty pictures on Pinterest and various websites on the Internet, as I don't think I have the funds to hire a planner...every single penny counts as 2013 is a watershed year. Therefore, out comes all the library books on wedding planning, websites-searches, forums, interview sessions with newlyweds and honeymoon itinerary. I feel really blessed as YY definitely rocks when it comes to logistics and planning...as for me, I adore projections and grand overviews but when it comes to the nitty-gritty (small stuff), I can be a bit forgetful. Anyone shares the same trait?<br />
<br />
As for DTTK, I thought of this tagline spontaneously while I was sending out save-the-date e-cards on FB. It's a play of words, esp since we both tie knots for a living...I mean, if we are not good at tying knots, a few litres of blood later and there goes a patient. On the other hand, the most important knot in our personal lives is a 'figurative' knot, a covenant made before God and man marking an important milestone in our lives together.<br />
<br />
I'm very grateful for every single help I could get and so far, the people we've met are really lovely and kind in our dealings with them. After multiple formal classes in church (I strongly recommend the Before You Say Yes course and the PREPARE-ENRICH questionaire/counselling for engaged couples) and another few sessions of 'one-on-two' counselling session, I felt a bit more 'prepared'. This commitment is a work-in-progress and just like our journey on earth, we'll never know how will the Lord greet us once we see Him again. Neverthelss, stepping into a new role soon is both exciting and challenging and being the CPD, of course I'm enthralled at upcoming challenges and changes!<br />
<br />
<div class="blogger-post-footer"><!--nuffnang -->
<script type='text/javascript'>
nuffnang_bid = "9dcd1c2617bc560566e0dd3317a7b141";
</script>
<script type="text/javascript" src="http://synad2.nuffnang.com.my/j.js"></script>
<!--nuffnang--></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13639455328859316496noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5104984232173079557.post-48424682607802594352013-01-01T20:19:00.002+08:002013-01-01T20:19:27.054+08:00Project 2013<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The ambitious year has begun with a big bang! 2013 is a year of big strategic moves. Multiple fronts are bombarded with decisions and more big decisions. What caught me as a huge surprise was this big decision 15 hours into the new year. Is it true, Lord?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5Y5MnJxpB24mXjND25DhPIJPMt6lXU-k-taw5odCP0lSaxEy1hDZ1zoUpu3myb3uO26Bi0SbG4RzdSgZwiNuHQ-dZ0Xt4MfgM7BnljtoHz7D_WYl8D-adqEcZFUwpHV8Tnnoatb-I0vA/s1600/bukit+batok+1113.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="142" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5Y5MnJxpB24mXjND25DhPIJPMt6lXU-k-taw5odCP0lSaxEy1hDZ1zoUpu3myb3uO26Bi0SbG4RzdSgZwiNuHQ-dZ0Xt4MfgM7BnljtoHz7D_WYl8D-adqEcZFUwpHV8Tnnoatb-I0vA/s320/bukit+batok+1113.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Our God is amazingly steadfast and faithful throughout the generations. The watchnight service was power-packed with various testimonies (including an unforgettable account of healing from leukemia from one apek who was candid, funny and touching at the same time) and a good sermon. I'm glad that I ushered in the new year with the right battle-ready mindset.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
In the next few months, I'll chat more about preparing for a new home, planning a wedding/honeymoon and most importantly, entering into one of the most sacred of all institution and it's for life!</div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer"><!--nuffnang -->
<script type='text/javascript'>
nuffnang_bid = "9dcd1c2617bc560566e0dd3317a7b141";
</script>
<script type="text/javascript" src="http://synad2.nuffnang.com.my/j.js"></script>
<!--nuffnang--></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13639455328859316496noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5104984232173079557.post-64791796094929614212012-12-16T11:37:00.003+08:002012-12-16T11:49:01.161+08:00Garden or Hospital?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This is what I see daily as I savour the short walk into my new workplace. The grounds are exquisitely peaceful and uniquely different from any other places I have worked in. I'll give you a few glimpse of this grand old dame of a hospital in the following few pictures (I must say that my handphone camera doesn't do the beautiful grounds much justice).</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv2-pfFt0-jqYsi6UuA69-N5Sjf7UdvO-_WuawcDh_45PKs1uUelooXmJbqMIpjDtlUaBF0EF8ACIwZzFwqmibo0q3VkDCcPiL9rMOh2N2xnx7GTmtS1qcdobKe7nTGYGMS_hqBA-CWwQ/s1600/2012-12-14+07.26.19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv2-pfFt0-jqYsi6UuA69-N5Sjf7UdvO-_WuawcDh_45PKs1uUelooXmJbqMIpjDtlUaBF0EF8ACIwZzFwqmibo0q3VkDCcPiL9rMOh2N2xnx7GTmtS1qcdobKe7nTGYGMS_hqBA-CWwQ/s1600/2012-12-14+07.26.19.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
In its' verdant gardens, there are also a lot of huge stately trees beautifully preserved. You can see the flora and fauna as you walk into the hospital, from the bus stop on Alexandra Road all the way to the 'grand' entrance.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_8yqkGG1oZqK_oyPbA5zCvajUBBXCepffe0BAOWuFL632NTy8XqY_gYUG_J6oGiYjV9KCQ1QUNoHYihGxsr6puWuzKm7dZFn7ySxeyyzZWdbccxHvwaAtMFU7Jk6ZRP6OlKxvFTIcfE0/s1600/2012-12-14+07.26.29.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_8yqkGG1oZqK_oyPbA5zCvajUBBXCepffe0BAOWuFL632NTy8XqY_gYUG_J6oGiYjV9KCQ1QUNoHYihGxsr6puWuzKm7dZFn7ySxeyyzZWdbccxHvwaAtMFU7Jk6ZRP6OlKxvFTIcfE0/s1600/2012-12-14+07.26.29.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Looking across from the main entrance, we could see a neo-classical fountain with a Grecian figurine and a myriad of flowers - lilies, bougainvilla, etc. Apparently, there are various birds spotted in this garden too..This is truly a place for people to recuperate, recover and get well in.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWmB1Iw6wiDr1Q24E0lhMNgfcK8YpgtmP4u9-3xUz7c1Mg58hXKKDX47bdIHOuHp2XvTkiJrVXB3nipej_RWLF4SVVxWtSPP3OOfBAvz_gLYEe42zSF-VSFVHIO0Zg5qRAeYd3u73rFks/s1600/2012-12-14+07.26.44.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWmB1Iw6wiDr1Q24E0lhMNgfcK8YpgtmP4u9-3xUz7c1Mg58hXKKDX47bdIHOuHp2XvTkiJrVXB3nipej_RWLF4SVVxWtSPP3OOfBAvz_gLYEe42zSF-VSFVHIO0Zg5qRAeYd3u73rFks/s1600/2012-12-14+07.26.44.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
And as you approach the information counter in the foyer of the main entrance, there is this refreshing, wonderfully-scented Christmas tree that is made of a real pine tree. Quite a beautiful place to work in, I must say... The only downside is that the open grounds made it quite difficult to leave the hospital for food/home/shopping during this rainy season.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCaGI8i_BI6TBys7B53pKJ5mNgt-31lxLncIaqiGssfjD9y7eur4GPKmC0aB0QuZhlbBsj22GqvywFIulfWOXEaM1yxsMxuq68kxqky90DdIXXKkUsWRC4Ki_RPMajJjvD-xCrAy5mxRg/s1600/2012-12-14+07.27.57.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCaGI8i_BI6TBys7B53pKJ5mNgt-31lxLncIaqiGssfjD9y7eur4GPKmC0aB0QuZhlbBsj22GqvywFIulfWOXEaM1yxsMxuq68kxqky90DdIXXKkUsWRC4Ki_RPMajJjvD-xCrAy5mxRg/s1600/2012-12-14+07.27.57.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Next stop, I'll intend to take more photographs of the colonial building itself as this hospital used to be a British Military Hospital followed by a Japanese military headquarters during the World War 2 before being renovated to the well-equipped, clean and beautifully-designed AH. Hopefully, I will unearth a few of the colourful history (maybe even discovering some lurid/grisly tales from the past) in this hospital before they move to the west in a few years' time. Wondering what is the status of the building then. Cross my fingers and hope they will not alter it too much or destroy the heritage preserved within.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer"><!--nuffnang -->
<script type='text/javascript'>
nuffnang_bid = "9dcd1c2617bc560566e0dd3317a7b141";
</script>
<script type="text/javascript" src="http://synad2.nuffnang.com.my/j.js"></script>
<!--nuffnang--></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13639455328859316496noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5104984232173079557.post-4479795123799196022012-12-12T22:04:00.000+08:002012-12-12T22:04:34.767+08:00Parco caffe-new favourite hang-out<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
One of the newer cafe to hit town in the Tanjong Pagar area is uniquely called Parco caffe (no it's the actual name, not a typo). The concept is quite good - tuck a nice little cafe in a quiet cul-de-sac called Raeburn Park and voila, you have customers streaming by word of mouth. And also a feeder bus from the nearby MRT station for those without a car. Yes, it is THAT quiet.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi596G82FlpBcYRnj-xYuCi9JexQR3yKPIVAKVO5vCy9gGhV2XTOsywJDa0zSIoTx3_ElGRfvZATMpzZI8z0PCGUKwqgG5qnfK-XLJ1PLenE-A4it7ysMODEFAk1WxLJOk_KFzGpYyz6Tk/s1600/parco+cafe+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi596G82FlpBcYRnj-xYuCi9JexQR3yKPIVAKVO5vCy9gGhV2XTOsywJDa0zSIoTx3_ElGRfvZATMpzZI8z0PCGUKwqgG5qnfK-XLJ1PLenE-A4it7ysMODEFAk1WxLJOk_KFzGpYyz6Tk/s1600/parco+cafe+1.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
YY found this place and brought me here..more brownies points for him for unearthing this favourite new place of ours. The ambience is cool and quirky, with a lot of importance placed on the quality of the food and decor. Moreover, the price is affordable considering the ingredients they used. So let's get to the main topic of discussion : food.<br />
<br />
<br />
Now the staff serving us are really attentive and quick to action. We sat down and upon ordering, there was this wonderful breads and flat-bread complete with the usual suspects of fine olive oil and tomato-based pesto. This is courtesy of the house (we love freebies!)<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhHn-iobCWq9WzyzgMdXLOe8tzPE6pYXg3RtwKCiCfSRiJnKtTtC3pRLb0Pyii0_E2dY220oaeUpJTYV_CGRolOjcBNHl64y9HJIb8AyAZ9Ppmmh4ePfvczZnCh9GHXAR2aMkZOw8m6rs/s1600/parco+cafe+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhHn-iobCWq9WzyzgMdXLOe8tzPE6pYXg3RtwKCiCfSRiJnKtTtC3pRLb0Pyii0_E2dY220oaeUpJTYV_CGRolOjcBNHl64y9HJIb8AyAZ9Ppmmh4ePfvczZnCh9GHXAR2aMkZOw8m6rs/s1600/parco+cafe+2.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
The range of appetizer is quite good for a small-ish place. We tried the tempura-squid rings and vegetable with mayo dip and it was a winner. We liked it so much, we ordered it again the next time we went.<br />
<br />
On our second round, we added an exotic-sounding appetizer called cold angel hair pasta with tobiko, bottargo and truffle oil<span style="color: #632035; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">...</span><br />
<span style="color: #632035; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #632035; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir2nKEgsLanPtWShyw1nJ-nYRwj1A7QUzTRx5PcuMaQYOCH8NcI9vVfZSurctFmybeP0KOtu_JxDU46IgCg-s1mrD-mDVhOqesFkZFDf63oYWQAXiTkGGZ5fsn8sidKEhje_xCxEXk3DI/s1600/2012-12-05+20.28.55.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir2nKEgsLanPtWShyw1nJ-nYRwj1A7QUzTRx5PcuMaQYOCH8NcI9vVfZSurctFmybeP0KOtu_JxDU46IgCg-s1mrD-mDVhOqesFkZFDf63oYWQAXiTkGGZ5fsn8sidKEhje_xCxEXk3DI/s1600/2012-12-05+20.28.55.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
This dish was truly unusual as it's no the typical savoury pasta - you have got to taste it to enjoy the explosion of different flavours. Definitely one dish to share with your dining kaki..<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp8iL8MdJFgZ6iR4mhYkn6xft5QRSJ4dowpRzwlg4ytV5ZEzz5OHrCFxbDolHJrrR7oSK6St_zxYCINjv0eTM43fKvYVxIa3UczuhIsJeir4KX3U8cT2CXwNHbkk7tagxtLEHppTYrryE/s1600/2012-12-05+21.07.23.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp8iL8MdJFgZ6iR4mhYkn6xft5QRSJ4dowpRzwlg4ytV5ZEzz5OHrCFxbDolHJrrR7oSK6St_zxYCINjv0eTM43fKvYVxIa3UczuhIsJeir4KX3U8cT2CXwNHbkk7tagxtLEHppTYrryE/s1600/2012-12-05+21.07.23.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
For some unknown reason, I've uploaded the dessert before the main course not because of my sweet tooth. I'm hardly a dessert person..serious...anyway, methink it's because it's so darn good. We chose to end the enjoyable meal with the pavlova with wafer and vanila ice cream and strawberry. The extremely soft and light pavlova is made of whipped cream (as what I learnt from Australian Masterchef last season) and I truly loved it because it ain't too sweet. Perfect foil to the crispy wafer and strawberry. The portion is just nice for a small eater (that's what I claim to be...)<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIVUEsGYCsAq4dnHVwUOCe2kETJFjWIncHOiKhvZgI6H705R8llR0IWpoBvlrS6PeANHEAvZYSLrp7DjnhqZ_MN1Ld7z3LIzn4WgMaAAdlS15BTodlVAn_T8YrteQMg_b7lOClc3UJHdY/s1600/parco+cafe+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIVUEsGYCsAq4dnHVwUOCe2kETJFjWIncHOiKhvZgI6H705R8llR0IWpoBvlrS6PeANHEAvZYSLrp7DjnhqZ_MN1Ld7z3LIzn4WgMaAAdlS15BTodlVAn_T8YrteQMg_b7lOClc3UJHdY/s1600/parco+cafe+3.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Main course during my first visit was this awesome juicy steak and surprisingly tasty foie gras laced with truffle oil and sides of rosti and mushrooms. Being a highly ethical person, felt a slight tinge of guilt as I bit into the goose liver. Strangely decadent and probably went straight to my coronaries..it was a delicious combination nevertheless.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixWKoyntGySTtRseeUOO4WBeVARD2aXLBgkORuFVwz5CxxEovMsZv0n482F5kyvat6s9RglClsCslhS7Mz9iYP_Ds9tDCrJ5wa9rMytiKkXfn7zBpbsREls63IbrLETUUbiNZYqY2RToA/s1600/parco+cafe+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixWKoyntGySTtRseeUOO4WBeVARD2aXLBgkORuFVwz5CxxEovMsZv0n482F5kyvat6s9RglClsCslhS7Mz9iYP_Ds9tDCrJ5wa9rMytiKkXfn7zBpbsREls63IbrLETUUbiNZYqY2RToA/s1600/parco+cafe+4.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
Free 'dessert' courtesy of the cafe. Macaroons, berries and cookies. Kooky and tasty..just the way I remember Parco Caffe...looking forward to exploring more of its exquisite menu.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer"><!--nuffnang -->
<script type='text/javascript'>
nuffnang_bid = "9dcd1c2617bc560566e0dd3317a7b141";
</script>
<script type="text/javascript" src="http://synad2.nuffnang.com.my/j.js"></script>
<!--nuffnang--></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13639455328859316496noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5104984232173079557.post-86892154711058079022012-12-02T15:53:00.002+08:002012-12-02T15:54:01.840+08:00Changes I love<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Now, I mentioned before that a rolling stone loves transitions and changes, just like how a tiger can't change her stripes. Starting from tomorrow, I'm moving on to another hospital for a few months - an exposure essential to a specialty like surgery as amalgamation of skills, experience and knowledge from a wide range of sources makes a versatile and resilient surgeon. We have to be able to cope in different scenario and events. hopefully, this will bade me well if I were to work in an austere condition in the future.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
it's also an opportunity for an extrovert to befriend new colleagues and encounter new adventures, albeit just a few kilometres down the road. as i make a brief visit to my new workplace a few days ago, it brought me back to memories of my childhood. the building is just like the old St Mary's or St John. Oh, such warm feelings. i guess if I feel bored, I will just wander in the hospital's expansive gardens or capture photographs of its exteriors. not bad...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
and then exams was over! Hurray..time to relax and resume a lot of planning - massive projects in store for 2013-2014. meanwhile, my recovery was in a charming resort somewhere on the island. this is what I see when I open my door for this weekend:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtYjVnYBVHgrd8I2JED6s75mMT0MChYCM1ZaaqYg3W3CB7e0dAse_c9Re_cwSDJumsuWJJGntGnSUf_vtgVZjrGq7e5QDDFnb5f3roWcPM74KEG7dPgSAJr2D9xkwT7SdQV4mKakeEWac/s1600/2012-12-02+12.18.34.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtYjVnYBVHgrd8I2JED6s75mMT0MChYCM1ZaaqYg3W3CB7e0dAse_c9Re_cwSDJumsuWJJGntGnSUf_vtgVZjrGq7e5QDDFnb5f3roWcPM74KEG7dPgSAJr2D9xkwT7SdQV4mKakeEWac/s1600/2012-12-02+12.18.34.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
btw, I'm not in Bali - although I wish I was. more ideas for my dream home...still not in existence but I am optimistic God is good and gracious. I'm sure YY and I will be able to find one soon. Thus after a wonderful rest in this resort by the beach, I'm now ready to be deployed in a new workplace. Gambate!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXIRqPQ9MxRZFB1c2_EX4d0FDqmxfKlEEMuhlE_-QUvbLcxOHQke-xV4SVAYrGu2RwEUvYxV_P9PcORsDOFvuDr5LHcXdbqcqNfvXjAy4vDdBinPmAj7Tgf6qr313QfiX4PBpGnuHluGQ/s1600/2012-12-02+12.18.05.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXIRqPQ9MxRZFB1c2_EX4d0FDqmxfKlEEMuhlE_-QUvbLcxOHQke-xV4SVAYrGu2RwEUvYxV_P9PcORsDOFvuDr5LHcXdbqcqNfvXjAy4vDdBinPmAj7Tgf6qr313QfiX4PBpGnuHluGQ/s1600/2012-12-02+12.18.05.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer"><!--nuffnang -->
<script type='text/javascript'>
nuffnang_bid = "9dcd1c2617bc560566e0dd3317a7b141";
</script>
<script type="text/javascript" src="http://synad2.nuffnang.com.my/j.js"></script>
<!--nuffnang--></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13639455328859316496noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5104984232173079557.post-12943335546617569482012-11-29T10:44:00.002+08:002012-11-29T14:17:57.269+08:00And then I was a bridesmaid...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">When one of my oldest friends ever, YH asked me to be her bridesmaid, I said YES! We practically grew up together and I've known her longer than a lot of people, and vice versa. What is most poignant is that although we are living in different countries now, we still keep in touch thanks to whatsapp, facebook, emails and chats. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjicXpRa2kUr8G4xnJoPVoACp1LuH9xKReOR_GzpgQDDyggqjiQo2acufidDFJoEldDU8kEy2DUVMiEPkhTG8SQK4Wj0WHGZopk6OVMQeG3St6BCKrOg9VRoxcXdDypyXVDSyKwcjV2rCk/s1600/DSC_5976.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjicXpRa2kUr8G4xnJoPVoACp1LuH9xKReOR_GzpgQDDyggqjiQo2acufidDFJoEldDU8kEy2DUVMiEPkhTG8SQK4Wj0WHGZopk6OVMQeG3St6BCKrOg9VRoxcXdDypyXVDSyKwcjV2rCk/s320/DSC_5976.JPG" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Thanx to our amazingly busy schedule, rehearsal was pushed to the last day before her wedding. The rehearsal itself was heartwarming and communal..everyone from her family, church mates, cell group people, YY and I..we chipped in and helped with the practice and decor. She shared my firm belief that marriage is a simple, happy celebration of love and not something that is impersonal or materialistic. Every bride-to-be is rightfully excited about her own wedding...after all, it's a once-in-a-lifetime thingy. After helping out in YH wedding, yours truly is :</span><br />
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">1. More than ever committed to stamp the hallmark of YY and LL on my own big day - quirky, interesting and unconventional.</span><br />
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">2. To invite as many people that I love as possible..and with a healthy headstart ( I have 10-12 months to plan!) so that it'll be a big FAT <strike>GREEK</strike>, (oops, I mean) a BIG FAT MALAYSIAN-SINGAPOREAN wedding.</span><br />
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgN5PwrZYWXPwqiqJCwvU6VaJizmYzzVbdxryr09jljPoJDifc5Xf3StAOjqZTqT4kNVJff6b-O9AwkFbqF1OMqJficfFCg3sFi4uahoNnSmk3FCW-1uJI8YSZepvoDwCRt_Ry-NLmrZ8/s1600/DSC_5944.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgN5PwrZYWXPwqiqJCwvU6VaJizmYzzVbdxryr09jljPoJDifc5Xf3StAOjqZTqT4kNVJff6b-O9AwkFbqF1OMqJficfFCg3sFi4uahoNnSmk3FCW-1uJI8YSZepvoDwCRt_Ry-NLmrZ8/s320/DSC_5944.JPG" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">As for wedding personnel, YH was super-blessed - I think it comes from her gracious heart, heart of a servant of Christ. So many lovely souls played a role in her big day. Even the flower girl starts early nowadays..look at the cutie posing for us during the practice. She is adorable..however, the moody ring bearer went on strike. So we couldn't capture him in action.</span><br />
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqxNibrdcHCQAJCJ9_e2VngDKGNaGwCIJBJeXeqFdkOkMeOVvE5keDqmFO7lsdGQiATSVeAkwyCE9LssY9vEEFe9ynOxHrkBTwbzki8i7oksJXaNTI7cIYUYiSW5kxtElIOEKgqIyn4t0/s1600/DSC_5809.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqxNibrdcHCQAJCJ9_e2VngDKGNaGwCIJBJeXeqFdkOkMeOVvE5keDqmFO7lsdGQiATSVeAkwyCE9LssY9vEEFe9ynOxHrkBTwbzki8i7oksJXaNTI7cIYUYiSW5kxtElIOEKgqIyn4t0/s320/DSC_5809.JPG" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Another culture which is peculiar to few countries in Asia and especially popular in Malaysia and Singapore is the 'jip san liong'..don't really know how to translate into English...some people described it as 'gatecrashing' but seriously, we are all civilized people here. I mean, we only want to have some fun and 'orientate' the groom's contigent. No crashing of gates here ok. Of course we do open the gates and doors willingly after they passed the 'tests'. (Pssst..remember the angpows hor).</span><br />
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSpfmqnuaDX6Xa3aKZljvhyY2VHAK-6o3LqR59N7yU8ATvhkXBU0nUF6bvrEGzcq4bmB6dxOyk9JyqE8_CE-oWxU1EjUNTrbyNpRc_MLLxE6OGVvXvDfVTtgmgcaCx3GFmOEBeHCI3V2c/s1600/DSC_5899.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSpfmqnuaDX6Xa3aKZljvhyY2VHAK-6o3LqR59N7yU8ATvhkXBU0nUF6bvrEGzcq4bmB6dxOyk9JyqE8_CE-oWxU1EjUNTrbyNpRc_MLLxE6OGVvXvDfVTtgmgcaCx3GFmOEBeHCI3V2c/s320/DSC_5899.JPG" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I love the colourful wigs. Can I inherit them? By the way, the cute skirts? These are handicrafts from YY and I. we made the hula skirts for the grooms' men (heng tai) the night before. Some people say that we are imported free labourers..well, I think our skirts are quite pretty aren't they? For those interested in getting a set, these skirts are only available in pink, while stocks last.</span><br />
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo-2vpROARqlYEf3Rg5qg5tTVQqUMSS8FivimVdRcIlsjGMJuw21kzbBHXcqDMRplz8lxv9jUk5edsDxCns7lkOJlibv1wVNHdC1Yw9pl32Na55V1X1QCrfkkBICmUQsObmeUCaBa0uaI/s1600/DSC_5866.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo-2vpROARqlYEf3Rg5qg5tTVQqUMSS8FivimVdRcIlsjGMJuw21kzbBHXcqDMRplz8lxv9jUk5edsDxCns7lkOJlibv1wVNHdC1Yw9pl32Na55V1X1QCrfkkBICmUQsObmeUCaBa0uaI/s320/DSC_5866.JPG" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Another almost-permanent fixture in these events are the prerequisite breakfast and drinks for the hard-working men. The international cuisine provided is astounding to a wide-extent, it's a fusion of Japanese, Indian, Chinese and Malay food. Wasabi is a very popular ingredient nowadays and check out the generous toppings on these biscuits. I brought along some Lomotil for the brothers, you know....thankfully, none of them needed it :-)</span><br />
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja2dnqoivNPCu3HY5WwMU97jzSUP8hjNwp0oIZ8CZziRuc2vG-Nq5_bm11od9XsQ9eq7LuuVbflcWz8o7isxD-2sOnfzlktDWY4MPgIPCDjR8zFU9MNHkquTZRQhdIvKb5hh3Qd_Ohczk/s1600/DSC_5865.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja2dnqoivNPCu3HY5WwMU97jzSUP8hjNwp0oIZ8CZziRuc2vG-Nq5_bm11od9XsQ9eq7LuuVbflcWz8o7isxD-2sOnfzlktDWY4MPgIPCDjR8zFU9MNHkquTZRQhdIvKb5hh3Qd_Ohczk/s320/DSC_5865.JPG" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The happiness extended to the 2 bridesmaids who got engaged within the past 3 months. There is definitely love in the air! All thanx to YH and CW...</span><br />
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbIM0JK0w8oiuh9M1eaA6m3mSmbg2g4IecWv46dtFzQztjZQPC0mEiLyDdBSv_UP_YIqBiQdDEWqbRlOsLfJcPC85nB30Ecq30NVYHmXQBxGABHe8PUHJDzaXaQG7rd8whm4bzZFu_IDo/s1600/DSC_5862.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbIM0JK0w8oiuh9M1eaA6m3mSmbg2g4IecWv46dtFzQztjZQPC0mEiLyDdBSv_UP_YIqBiQdDEWqbRlOsLfJcPC85nB30Ecq30NVYHmXQBxGABHe8PUHJDzaXaQG7rd8whm4bzZFu_IDo/s320/DSC_5862.JPG" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">By the way, I started a new blog with perfectweddings.sg but realized that I don't have the time to concentrate on 2 blogs. I think I'll just talk about my preparations for the big event in Sep 2013 on this site. I'm sure you guys don't mind right?</span><br />
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><!--nuffnang -->
<script type='text/javascript'>
nuffnang_bid = "9dcd1c2617bc560566e0dd3317a7b141";
</script>
<script type="text/javascript" src="http://synad2.nuffnang.com.my/j.js"></script>
<!--nuffnang--></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13639455328859316496noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5104984232173079557.post-2226153260621689202012-10-07T15:16:00.002+08:002012-11-29T14:18:06.291+08:00Exhaustion and existenceSomewhere and sometime between being a surgeon, researcher, teacher, fiancee, student, daughter, sister..I lost myself in the buzz of things. I was totally drained out at one point this week, so much so that I almost fell asleep during a dinner on Friday with a group of new friends. It it almost unthinkable for a surgeon to doze off during company, but shamefully, I did on Level 33 overlooking Marina Bay.<br />
<br />
<br />
Brings me to the topic of exhaustion and rest. Rest is so important to me right now at this point of the year that I couldn't think of anything else but to lay my head down to rest. It reminded me of days in HKL as a houseman, where I existed from day to day. The past 2 months seem to be a whirlwind of activities as I completed my daily tasks and wondered on when I could really slow down...I told myself that November. November will be the month that I could relax, after my semester exams. But then again, is it true rest? What am I truly achieving in the long run?<br />
<br />
<br />
This morning's sermon by Pastor D. Yeo woke me up to reality self worth is not equivalent to performance and others' approval. Self worth is God's truth about us. We are co-heirs, royal priesthood. When I operate, teach, study, talk..I must feel God's pleasure upon me. I guess with that in mind, I cease to put this self-imposed pressure upon myself and learn to rest in His presence.<br />
<br />
<br />
On an interesting note, my house hunting has been put to hiatus due to the inopportune timing of the bull market and the extreme greed in the housing market. Then this morning, one of my relatives reminded me that I couldn't have gotten a resale HDB so early before my wedding anyway. This proves to me that God knows the best timing for me and His awesome plan comes to my rescue again. I don't need to worry but He is my provider and shelter, my help and comforter...<br />
<br />
<br />
<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><!--nuffnang -->
<script type='text/javascript'>
nuffnang_bid = "9dcd1c2617bc560566e0dd3317a7b141";
</script>
<script type="text/javascript" src="http://synad2.nuffnang.com.my/j.js"></script>
<!--nuffnang--></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13639455328859316496noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5104984232173079557.post-44553298101410512392012-08-20T19:58:00.001+08:002012-11-29T14:18:14.854+08:00The Day My Life Begin to Change..<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It was one of the happiest days of my life. Surely, this is the biggest blessing to come from God this year, thus far. For me, it was an extremely pleasant surprise..</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
On 9th Aug 2012, the National Day of Singapore, I went to Mandarin Oriental Hotel expecting the best (air-conditioned) seats in the house for the grand National Day Parade at the floating platform downstairs. I went home the next day being so transformed and blessed...I was almost speechless. And it wasn't the luxurious hotel suite nor the wonderful show that took my breath away. Rather it was the sweet, romantic and personal proposal from my darling fiancee, YY...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN2bkN3Cxf7nHMRm6zwXEAmutPVZzUMf2yqlDdrRC022-IUQrVOZyUbwgXfx48uWTgHMzrbV-WxSWMrVmRvtBzB3pNqC8_6ynhZPbvGDFfY_JuzLho0x6yNUK46Yte43KxR0u6SgIRjtA/s1600/DSC_0232.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN2bkN3Cxf7nHMRm6zwXEAmutPVZzUMf2yqlDdrRC022-IUQrVOZyUbwgXfx48uWTgHMzrbV-WxSWMrVmRvtBzB3pNqC8_6ynhZPbvGDFfY_JuzLho0x6yNUK46Yte43KxR0u6SgIRjtA/s320/DSC_0232.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I guess YY arranged the whole event for a long time - looking at all the effort he has poured into the P.R.O.P.O.S.A.L project and I have never seen him more nervous. My logistics maestro was extremely stealthy and steady in executing the entire event. As for the unprepared me, I am glad I said the right answer to the most important question in my life - YES!<br />
<br />
So, amidst grand fireworks bursting behind us at eye level, it was a truly memorable evening. Of course I am glad he recorded it all on film..although strangely I moved out of frame (considering how much I love the camera) and I didn't shed a tear in the beginning (I guess the idea was still sinking into my thick caput)<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9_uOymb6PethMOuMgbPzKjKqyZ9Zyp9Z-New0EmEkAuGOiweJvgpJfIHoyvfdYQfz-XbjbguNeyFEG-TgJ947bnbzNnyUvshiVRWFCEw7t5gSx99Df9ALGTNcIyBKSpr3RtzRrJwIfq4/s1600/DSC_5598.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9_uOymb6PethMOuMgbPzKjKqyZ9Zyp9Z-New0EmEkAuGOiweJvgpJfIHoyvfdYQfz-XbjbguNeyFEG-TgJ947bnbzNnyUvshiVRWFCEw7t5gSx99Df9ALGTNcIyBKSpr3RtzRrJwIfq4/s320/DSC_5598.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
It was only when we kneel on our knees and prayed for God to shine His light upon us and lead us to right decisions in the our walk together that I begin to cry tears of joy.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
And from thereafter, I was grinning from ear to ear at my new 'status' - upcoming new bride in Autumn 2013 and praying that the preparations will allow us to begin our new life together in a meaningful, memorable and loving way!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer"><!--nuffnang -->
<script type='text/javascript'>
nuffnang_bid = "9dcd1c2617bc560566e0dd3317a7b141";
</script>
<script type="text/javascript" src="http://synad2.nuffnang.com.my/j.js"></script>
<!--nuffnang--></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13639455328859316496noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5104984232173079557.post-55341205257416197242012-04-16T22:32:00.000+08:002012-11-29T14:18:29.073+08:00A Foodie's Pilgrimage up north So what happens when you have a serious craving for 'original' Malaysian hawker food? You pack your stuff, grab your passport and hit the trail. Time for a road trip up north on the awesome NSE of course! Eat till you drop!!<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaMzEFvX3kfV1ShJLbJdlZRMo6ZHwuVg80H7C2OS7_oqlXXfpYiI-Iq52WloIjC2J_gSI94vrRkynQ5PCi5JSMokF9sb-wISpB4E0k2urjSB_J4kpfKm1FOQaOwF0u734-hi81nITvrbI/s1600/penang+bridge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaMzEFvX3kfV1ShJLbJdlZRMo6ZHwuVg80H7C2OS7_oqlXXfpYiI-Iq52WloIjC2J_gSI94vrRkynQ5PCi5JSMokF9sb-wISpB4E0k2urjSB_J4kpfKm1FOQaOwF0u734-hi81nITvrbI/s320/penang+bridge.jpg" width="244" /></a>After spending a brief sojourn in my lovely 'hometown' KL, we continued driving on a very sunny weekday all the way up past Perak, into Kedah and then finally Penang!<br />
<br />
Entering Penang from the mainland (whether by the ferry or on the bridge) is always a thrill, as the beautiful island glitters in the bright sun beckoning all food lovers near and far. Aaaah, the beloved Pearl of the Orient. Does it still lives up to my memories of various food-trips to this city?<br />
<br />
Amazingly, it does. Coming from places with utilitarian hawker food, Penang is a breath of fresh, cheap,cheap,cheap fresh air. Did I mention cheap? Ok, I shan't spoil market here as I know inflation hits hard everywhere but the price is kept at an ok pace despite the great ingredients used.<br />
<br />
<br />
Now back to the food....<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUqIlPYW7Ot8-ihzbdni92GAPwv7mIskCFFDkWrYEcMRohBpMgzM2icffTmuI7JYLFqvKae2UfoBZyhNhqIceKLUK023Hv_lTpXVxkufotbbh09awB3TQikKD6PpLn1ev3_1aZj2NQEsQ/s1600/CNN+kway+chap.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="218" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUqIlPYW7Ot8-ihzbdni92GAPwv7mIskCFFDkWrYEcMRohBpMgzM2icffTmuI7JYLFqvKae2UfoBZyhNhqIceKLUK023Hv_lTpXVxkufotbbh09awB3TQikKD6PpLn1ev3_1aZj2NQEsQ/s320/CNN+kway+chap.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
Penang great food No 1: <strong>Cnn Kway Chap</strong>.<br />
We named this after the broadcasting network as apparently, news about this fabled dish has been reported on international news multiple times. We were very skeptical & reluctant as we feel 'innards and internal organs' are things we remove on daily basis in the theatre, not something to be munched on...<br />
<br />
However, we were very pleasantly surprised at the wonderful balance of flavour. The fine nuance of spices in the meaty broth mixed with smooth kway chap ties with the next dish as the no 1 hawker food found in this trip. Even the 'organs' became elevated to some sort of creative delicacy akin to those found in top 'celebrity restaurants at MBS'. At 1/100th of the price.<br />
<br />
The shop doesn't even have a name as the uncle cook from his stall which has a motorbike attached. All I know is that it is near Kimberley Street. I am sure the locals will point you to it if you ask. <br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXjH-eR8Z8RYr7ksSiPX-cLcpFd_Qn2ePEHBwoFJ3bepjv-zrrD_VQwuwhATfik6JkUhrlKAEr1meC5JlDi4i_tmS6O7C6QSqITTu3ZMGm-805DwmNSv2UEvsTIko7OSCOZ0n7sTEjc00/s1600/ckt+2+sisters.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXjH-eR8Z8RYr7ksSiPX-cLcpFd_Qn2ePEHBwoFJ3bepjv-zrrD_VQwuwhATfik6JkUhrlKAEr1meC5JlDi4i_tmS6O7C6QSqITTu3ZMGm-805DwmNSv2UEvsTIko7OSCOZ0n7sTEjc00/s320/ckt+2+sisters.JPG" width="240" /></a>Penang great food no 1: <strong>Char Koay Teow.</strong><br />
<br />
Now I was told : Once upon a time, there was a great food war brewing in Penang. The legend was that 2 brilliant CKT artisans set up shop within close vicinity to each other..there was indeed great rivalry for CKT greatness. Eventually, one of them lost the war and the person moved out. Presently, the stalls are situated quite apart from each other.<br />
<br />
Due to some unknown reasons, we found this goggle-auntie CKT at Lorong Selamat before we could visit her other great competitor Ah Leng CKT and we were instantly hooked. YY reached culinary paradise. I was smitted again as I remembered that I tried the food from this stall a few years ago. It still taste the same..equally wonderful with large fresh crunchy prawns and that 'wok hei' that is thoroughly missing in all SG street food. The most interesting selling point of this stall must be the stylish old auntie with communist red beret and curt manners. Service is minimal but food is awesome. We are still hooked. Food-dreams are made of this...<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTZJ0cMKdCFEp-RxCzrIbNu6zyueZciLSz9OBjc3H8ZQTr4a8gtTjdcYywoJA8VyZaaN-_CKHNUxsTmQWX3i38ZBzzYMjtIEJ84y7Hx9-c1jULolZ0e6XeTLMC90ZmcjvsXB0TyFkz5jk/s1600/nyonya.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTZJ0cMKdCFEp-RxCzrIbNu6zyueZciLSz9OBjc3H8ZQTr4a8gtTjdcYywoJA8VyZaaN-_CKHNUxsTmQWX3i38ZBzzYMjtIEJ84y7Hx9-c1jULolZ0e6XeTLMC90ZmcjvsXB0TyFkz5jk/s320/nyonya.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Penang great food no 3: <strong>Nyonya food.</strong><br />
<br />
Due to the tie for no 1, this wonderful gourmet wonder was bumped to number 3. I think it's slightly unfair because the whole meal was graded (as compared to the single stand-alone dish previously)....I couldn't decide between all the dish served at this Nyonya place at Quayside by Seri Tanjung Pinang. IMHO, 2 dish: Fish Belanda with fried fish that was fresh and crunchy and jiu hu char - a shredded cuttlefish dish that was unforgettable. This place was humming with happy diners on a Sunday night as we stuff ourselves crazy....<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF4-kFZhg-wgfbmDaz9CE1Li37AaCevHozy2-NDP0hoVbt_Vghf2BkQ6amQeZu-qNXFW9o3hCQCg0LOYx045ZFBRvnZE9f0dH9kjelwpjoI02BVVnMcLNbPfJQIcisyYr-cYOv09nLQ4k/s1600/david+brown.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF4-kFZhg-wgfbmDaz9CE1Li37AaCevHozy2-NDP0hoVbt_Vghf2BkQ6amQeZu-qNXFW9o3hCQCg0LOYx045ZFBRvnZE9f0dH9kjelwpjoI02BVVnMcLNbPfJQIcisyYr-cYOv09nLQ4k/s320/david+brown.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Penang great food no 4: Various Western restaurant throughout the island</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Now, Penangites are really blessed. Not only there are wonderfully balmy & clean beach that they can escape to easily on weekends (even Langkawi is just a stone's throw away)...the range of international cuisine is of very high standard at much cheaper prices than the other 2 'Strait's Settlements' as well!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">One of my perennial favourite is this place called David Brown's at Strawberry Hill atop Penang Hill. Part of the allure goes to the breath-taking scenery and well-manicured garden. Next and most importantly, I have to give credit to the food served too. The trout was very good - fresh, well-cooked, savoury and simply scrumptious. As we dined al fresco, birds and butterflies drifted past us on this lazy, hot Saturday afternoon made bearable on top of the 2000ft high Penang Hill. Not too bad eh?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">To be continued.....</div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><!--nuffnang -->
<script type='text/javascript'>
nuffnang_bid = "9dcd1c2617bc560566e0dd3317a7b141";
</script>
<script type="text/javascript" src="http://synad2.nuffnang.com.my/j.js"></script>
<!--nuffnang--></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13639455328859316496noreply@blogger.com1