tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-57120842024-03-06T14:15:46.137+08:00Aftertot......a place to share reviews so that good stuff can be appreciatedCatherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07253244009276715684noreply@blogger.comBlogger274125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5712084.post-17300919817152611482018-01-01T14:28:00.000+08:002018-01-01T14:29:22.347+08:002017 Was The Year<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>that was pretty smooth sailing - I think the cruise trip really helped set the tone. Trio from the Amies d'enfance group finally did a holiday together and a 4D3N cruise to Phuket-Krabi too. While the food and sights could have been better, the laughter and companionship were priceless..and THAT double leg massages!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="960" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGc70VU0vq6qg5-DDnalBT6dGnoevRNYErRjWlSvdQgzyHjH_kGOO5LpzYIS2xG74Bn0dmzpz4MU0fdJqIEn0t546NnHbdllCmohWTufovIwbvF2OTXW-_7LEFpst1Obv_3R0vTA/s1600/15727088_10154178824078240_4676371647849828726_n.jpg" style="border-width: 0px; clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" width="320" /></div>
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<li>The Vampire Diaries and Pretty Little Liars officially ended. Suddenly I no longer had a bunch of series to follow yet I didn't feel the urge to start any new series...*<i>gasp </i>is my tv phase phasing out? Well, Supernatural is going strong at the moment. And definitely GoT. Walking Dead however kinda lost a little steam even more so after learning that Carl's gonna die (from reading spoilers..oops) </li>
<li>of travel yoga. I made a commitment to myself to find time for yoga every time I was away, be it a short trip to Langkawi or a longer trip to the States. Even if it meant waking up at 6am to practice on deck, or to go to a secluded beach or to the famous Bean. And also to attend classes and becoming a student again. The experience was enriching and truly energizing. The photos were definitely an added bonus *<i>winks <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="608" data-original-width="1080" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie44MBGhMVjrE2j_2H1f4RUU67nym3VuAoVSVAqhzo_AmhDvaQD_0A7r8LFs5qj9REDQ-jp6o2KA6bbVEUQwlCLOMrosncOoo63rFq4ZqIQ0izt7jmjGqOFeisGsX9MYlidsoEIA/s320/21014030_10154985541468240_1947899250897895314_o.jpg" style="border-width: 0px; clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 2em;" width="320" /></div>
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<li>I had an amazing time in Boston and Chicago. I touched Mr. Harvard's shoe for luck, hung out over the glass ledge at Willis Tower, met up with an old friend, and walked more than 115K steps during the entire trip. </li>
<li>MY Yoga's Parents & Kids Yoga took flight. The almost once-a-month affair were lots of fun and it was always exciting to see kids coming back for more, class after class. </li>
<li>I met <b>DAVID BECKHAM</b> - again! After seeing him live in action against United back in 2010, it was super duper awesome to have him stand just a few feet away. His hair was..ahem..a little untidy tbh but everyone was still screaming like nobody's business LOL. Now I really want to meet the wifey..please come by soon, pretty please <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYW4WY8FULlVYdWPWKNZKYdeEwLcbN1gYzTlbn7olvtSsywMeDS-CyRLCIPYIieTAL7SLX-peJcDGiPiOVCrHiWTTxeEBsnMvv89hcNUTszAIK62DShyphenhyphenDrebQc0HI5FrmJDcKTZQ/s320/21992853_10155074678653240_1520337635287472598_o.jpg" style="border-width: 0px; clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" width="180" /></div>
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<li>I only managed 8 books and I gotta up my game</li>
<li>I was honored and humbled to be <a href="http://acatpenang.com/7-awesome-malaysian-women-entrepreneurs-their-stories/" target="_blank">recognized as an entrepreneur</a> for founding <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MYYoga21/" target="_blank">MY Yoga</a> :)</li>
<li>with the shortest list yet but nevertheless it was year of optimism, of stopping to smell the flowers, of breathing in the sights and sounds. While the days (and evenings) were really busy, things came and went, old classes ended and new classes began, life felt great most of the time. </li>
</ul>
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2018 will be a year of consciousness, of opportunities and hopefully of dreams becoming realities. </div>
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<span style="color: red;"><b>HaPpY NeW YeAr 2018!</b></span></div>
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Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07253244009276715684noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5712084.post-78113134263880657922017-01-01T12:01:00.000+08:002017-01-01T12:01:44.152+08:002016 was the year<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>the moment it started, I wished it would end immediately. I was at a pretty bad place in life where everything felt wrong, nothing may ever be right, no light at the end of the tunnel...you get the drift. </li>
<li>I learnt to look at the bright side. Whilst it wasn't easy but humans are creatures of habit after all. And I absolutely believe that the mantra "<b><i>With Practice, All Is Coming</i></b>" applies even beyond the mat. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVIeQHDl6Ymk_nyYHgBykY17vKw0bNi2Brb6sBeMF09l-ORfudpXk0dch6Mte-C8TYZakG8TEfQHhcDDfkCun6zdTItF9Jfvupe0qcu4CekUy2vsRDHUssJpdix-V-lWl-DszOXA/s1600/yoga.jpg" style="border-width: 0px; clear: left; float: left; margin-right: 2em; margin-top: 1em;" width="320" /></div>
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<li><a href="https://www.facebook.com/MYYoga21/" target="_blank">MY Yoga</a> continued to be a big part of my evenings and my weekends. Many asked me if I was tired to be doing this especially after a long week. To be honest, I have had days where the inner me groaned for needing to wake up at 8am on a weekend. But I know myself too well lol. My inner self is a double-headed snake who will not hesitate to make me feel guilty after if I ended up sleeping in and cancelling class for example. That said, it's not a battle of ego - you can't do it if you don't enjoy it in the first place. Oh and by the way, I went on to add a 7am Saturday class to my schedule too. </li>
<li>of mealpreps, baking and cooking inspired by all the brilliant videos from the likes of Tasty, TipHero, etc which made cooking seemed so easy. And I even had a mini cookbook printed as a keepsake ;)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="199" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9lq6PlhZVoF1fLGThfvqEIP8DRtuQ-tuU6d9wfsI_ZIZ2KI5MBq3ahsr_hrm2pI2Wkt9xrCTJ-GmIYnucahC6hCBPAjNvSF4lexmwoESmXkje7fQOvSFYi-S69qyUOrNY3KtxbQ/s1600/book.jpg" style="border-width: 0px; clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" width="200" /></div>
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<li>I stopped listening to the radio while driving. So I'm very much out of touch with the latest songs/happenings these days. On the positive note, solo driving became sort of a quiet moment for me in a soothing, meditative sort of way and I thoroughly enjoyed it. </li>
<li>of Descendants of the Sun. Not only did I binge watched, I even did some yoga flow inspired by soundtracks from the drama. </li>
<li>poor Glenn officially exited Walking Dead in the worst way possible. And I kinda lost the oomph to watch the show after. True I was away on vacation but I didn't had the urge to continue even when I got back. The show is at its mid-season break now and I am only at episode 2. Guess I am still in mourning. </li>
<li>I checked a few items off my bucket list - the elusive Aurora Borealis, the legendary glass igloo, and the whole Scandinavia adventure. I decided I needed this break at the early part of the year and I went for it. Of course the whole last year for northern light sighting news totally tipped the scale. And I am proud to say I've been there, done there. One of the best memories of my life period.
<img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTTJNHzaRbtOeqEm_lKE3QBcrvp6UtOGMLrjUsISAo1vOAmVPrJQrgKZB9NpyVQL2Buqz5nxKZUW-1COyv7Pk0RQkUgjCrvo0jMQCeDIBxulMPnf8b9bUy9ItCd5O7jsRetaWUgg/s1600/aurora.jpg" style="border-width: 0px; clear: left; float: left; margin-right: 2em; margin-top: 1em;" width="320" /></li>
<li>football was the least thing on my mind. Oh how I missed the glory days. Now I can't even name the full Manchester United lineup....</li>
<li>I broke my annual reading record with 15 books, many of which were some of the best books I have ever read. </li>
<li>MY Yoga deserved double mention for being voted #2 in the <a href="http://www.tallypress.com/publishing/top-10-yoga-studios-in-penang" target="_blank">Top 10 Yoga Studios in Penang</a>. Being a fairly new teacher, it is a huge honor to be nominated let alone to achieve the second spot. I am indeed thankful for the belief, support and encouragement. </li>
<li>I spotted shooting stars twice - once on a plane to Amsterdam, the other while driving to yoga class in the wee hours of the morning. They were so swift that you'd missed it if you blinked. </li>
<li>I believe that while everything may not turn out to be what you hoped for but everything will be ok in its own way. And if it's not okay, then it's not the end just yet. </li>
</ul>
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2017 will be a year of positivity, a year where challenges can be overcome with the right mindset, efforts and faith. </div>
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<span style="color: red;"><b>HaPpY NeW YeAr 2017!</b></span><br />
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Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07253244009276715684noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5712084.post-942876384317764842016-01-01T14:13:00.000+08:002016-01-01T14:13:58.327+08:002015 was the year<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<ul style="text-align: left;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAQRdKTZQmZjM5Z2BULozJl99f3jRb-pFseFV4tCMqtivqQm_4wLI3owVQS2bOLHHNTofE8C0O9RP0_TVqRSsJhUPIZaUfpV1ibQ7YUYTivWL_on4mNLDWflIgnMMrVvwAQ2PPbQ/s1600/yoga.jpg" style="border-width: 0px; clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" width="320" />
<li>of changes, big and small, good and bad, some with isolated impact while others with repercussions, either felt immediately or eventually became shrapnel in a ticking time bomb or confetti in giant balloons, with fleeting or even lasting effects. <i><span style="color: #666666;">[confusing much? ya, that's 2015 for ya...]</span></i></li>
<li>yoga definitely took the numero uno place under the spotlight. Yes, I am now a US Yoga Alliance Certified Yoga Teacher (RYT200) after a grueling 24, 8-hour weekends with a 100% attendance record. The entire experience, from a student to a teacher cum student (because really, the learning never ends..) likely deserves a post on its own <i><span style="color: #666666;">[which it did</span> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MYYoga21/photos/a.728536003941923.1073741828.726677734127750/751086148353575/" target="_blank"><b>here</b></a><span style="color: #666666;">]</span> </i>and I just want to reiterate that this was one of the best gifts for myself this year, one that I never thought I would achieved, let alone live it. It has truly left a permanent mark on me...or in true Disney's Inside Out fashion, a golden-hued globe in the core memory rack☺ <i><span style="color: #666666;">[Also couldn't help but to promote, follow MY Yoga's journey</span> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MYYoga21/" target="_blank"><b>here</b></a><span style="color: #666666;">!]</span></i></li>
<li>blogging was practically non-existent - only 1 post in a year, down from 7 in 2014. Doesn't look like it's going to pick up this year but let's see if perhaps a yoga blog/website may be the answer though no promises here</li>
<li>I crossed Penang Bridge for the most times in one year and in my 30 odd years of existence combined, thanks to Yoga TTC. It was also a drive I took pleasure in - driving in the early mornings in the company of the skyline in whichever mood it happened to be that day. Rain or shine, it provided a comfort and I must confess, I could not resist capturing a few shots behind the wheel <i><span style="color: #666666;">*guilty!</span></i></li>
<li><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBjqSU8v7-Brq8x1M1h8_5JMm8lnX1Zz-Sm6aQeXQG_8A12R0LdtH8kTMsascZj4LZzONEEdH2ZbpBrpcT-A6rit-MG-kWk7h8zx41-XU-BgQIHy9-ExWWxQDsyOISuciYNLCuzQ/s1600/dawn2.jpg" style="border-width: 0px; clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" width="320" />I chased Lovejoy for 2 whole weeks and got closer to the constellations, namely Orion, Taurus, Pleiades and Aries, in the process</li>
<li>I got a taste of life at the front row of fashion week and exclusive events - was good while it lasted lol</li>
<li>of beautiful, thought-provoking movies. Think Nebraska, Curfew, Theory of Everything, The Book Thief, The Imitation Game, Inside Out and many more. Movies that brought me to a different time and I came back with perhaps just a tiny piece of me forever transformed. And no, never watched a single Star Wars in my life...</li>
<li>I jumped on the Samsung bandwagon, no more iPhone for me (well, technically I still have my old iPhone for..erm.."business" purposes), and it's been pretty good thus far. I love the oh-so-easily customizable themes among others but honestly, I kinda miss those jailbroken, <i><span style="color: #666666;">*cough*</span></i> free <span style="color: #666666;"><i>*cough*</i> </span>apps and games. </li>
<li>another series was inducted to MY's All-Time-Favorite-Series Hall of Fame. Glee, I salute you for the songs and performances you opened my ears and eyes to. I also bid farewell to Revenge and Elena/Katherine of Vampire Diaries though I wished I did not have to. But the show must go on even when the seemingly key character exits or gets killed off. Which brings me to the likes of John Snow of GoT and the fortunately-it-did-not-happen-to Glenn of The Walking Dead. In retrospect, these are really lessons in life, sometimes people/situations may leave/change, suddenly or due to one reason or another, and really, how do you continue trudging on when there are no options otherwise? Will you be able to go on? Could things have been different if you were more conscious in the first place?</li>
<li>I queued for more than 5 hours in total to get my CNY limited edition Coca-Cola cans emblazoned with names of my choosing. I don't remember the last time I queued for anything this long..maybe it was during that fuel craze, logic vs nothing-better-to-do moment eons ago..guess these craziness comes along every other year. It's rather funny looking back at it now and I am really grateful I was not alone when I went to queue a 2nd time (ya I went home empty-handed the first round). Because of you, I managed to own the complete set of "Happiness", "Wealth", "Abundance", "Blessings", "Prosperity", "Fortune", "Peace", and "Smooth" to usher in the Chinese New Year. Talkabout HUAT-ar lol <img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJabOf5YIWBkRQNXQfyohPjmmgAV9Tmr-0iqA_75dv4MElLNDCV3-LasQiA08fXYg2b9lrI49twRXcxmSkZ1_hmW0tBUUN5Zy2G3QC4cU2AEGsAy72q44uiwycfu8iw91M-EnOUA/s1600/coke.jpg" style="border-width: 0px; clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" width="320" /></li>
<li>or rather, not the year, of long distance travel. There were a few business trips here and there plus a short trip to Singapore where I re-acquainted with my pretty friend over dinner. </li>
<li>with a number of good dinners (and with good I meant the price were heftily "good" as well). One didn't really lived up to its name though and had left a permanent distasteful memory that whenever brought up, pulls with it negative feelings. May be some day, we'll get another opportunity to create another memory to replace it. Let this globe of memory be hauled to the memory dump to be turned into dust forever <i><span style="color: #666666;">[yes, Inside Out again!]</span></i></li>
<li>I had no idea how many books I read. A quick sweep over at the bookshelves and I think I probably managed 7-8? A drop from 2014 with a few reads lying around, abandoned halfway. I have this "disorder" <i><span style="color: #666666;">[for the lack of a better word]</span></i> in me that insists I must finish reading a book irregardless how painfully slow or boring it is or how long I took to finish it (think Life of Pi) - in-between hiatus acceptable. Hence the few reads, bookmarked nicely, waiting for its time to be picked up again. Not all are slow or boring though but I think I grew out of it and the moment did not feel right to continue on. Oh but the really good ones, I can gobbled it up in 2 or 3 seatings, no urging needed. Such are my relationships with books....</li>
<li>where there were moments I failed to be a more compassionate, understanding, thankful person than I could have been. I acknowledged I cannot alter the past and I hope to mindfully be more aware of my actions and thoughts rather than let habits take the driver's seat.</li>
<li>I realized that there is no perfect time. The only time is now, this present moment. The more one holds back out of fear, it eats us from the inside. </li>
</ul>
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2016 will be a year of consciousness, of mindfulness to be a better version of ourselves. We might be injured and cautious, but let us constantly remind ourselves that with conscious effort, we can have our wings.<br />
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<i><span style="color: #666666;">"受傷了 誰都會哭泣 哭完了 別否定過去 快樂的 美好的 都還在這裡 等著你"</span></i></div>
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<b><span style="color: red;">HaPpY NeW YeAr 2016!</span></b><br />
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Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07253244009276715684noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5712084.post-89277603153030676442015-01-01T10:42:00.000+08:002015-01-01T10:42:20.699+08:002014 was the year<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<ul style="text-align: left;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDSj72FkfYXq1cMYPiI4_P9Hq5MmYDwwP71vL3dg8A4dvrTF-GRyiMaPInFQdZnAvWE7DEy9lzTVwEZNW9i-wQBig-v9yPZZ56mzCBDcxGTMFcBbdUO2EUc9aUTnlrkhJOhc0SdQ/s1600/summer.jpg" height="200" style="border-width: 0px; clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" width="200" />
<li>that reminded each and every one of us time and time again of how fragile life is and how we should cherish every opportunity and moments in life. </li>
<li>filled with huge events, tight schedules and endless requests. Thankfully major anniversaries don't happen every year.</li>
<li> of the new all time blogging low - only 7 posts in 365 days, down 3 from 2013..I probably should just strike out "write more" from my "non-existent" resolutions list like f.o.r.e.v.e.r</li>
<li>of summer infused waters, autumn smoothies and winter coffee arts</li>
<li>of many freebies. From gadget to charm to planner, from free smoothies to coffees to ice-creams..yup, I've got them all. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD-I9zRmtiJ-EleLC3fHGxQq6_AVURkz9Lp3zrxRFZNhuRFCxijPSn8s9Fumv9PwANHE-4ys-KJoJgqHObM0tpDeceWHX4-nRa6XdxcPhhukCKqdPRfR2Qb-Is4qb4ZWCO19T-MQ/s1600/winter.jpg" height="200" style="border-width: 0px; clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" width="200" /></div>
Also not to forget the many Moments, goodies and awesome deals in between :)</li>
<li>I had a very white Chinese New Year *<i>winks</i></li>
<li>I flew to East Malaysia for the first (and most likely the last) time</li>
<li>HIMYM was officially inducted onto MY's All-Time-Favorite-Series Hall of Fame, standing tall and proud amongst the likes of Lost, Buffy, 4400 and many other LEGEN-wait for it-DARY series, though I definitely do not look forward to adding more to the list anytime soon...</li>
<li>I had the opportunity to get up close and personal with the almighty Barclays Premier League trophy, in the Flesh!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJAK1rpOfY5hteAdTqxucM4yQe0jKGxmgnJeCQC9N3uIDtgSv02YWA3hACUuS2FE5ftYc0bhUgMdjG3X_NLqyqqptbk0qkbEgNPFvNos2UEBVdTUmt0nyJzZOnTdZfnDEPQtjeug/s1600/xmas.jpg" height="200" style="border-width: 0px; clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" width="200" /></div>
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<li>of churros, cronuts and salted caramel *<i>yumz!</i></li>
<li>I got my first ever photobook printed (complete layout designed by moi) and of a very satisfactory quality. So looking forward to using the 2 remaining vouchers next *<i>rubs hands gleefully</i></li>
<li>yours truly jumped on the Instagram bandwagon - which was also how I got to winning my 2nd photography contest...</li>
<li>of 11 good reads, up 2 from last year. Pretty impressive I'd say given the super packed year *<i>gives self a pat on the back</i></li>
<li>my Swarovski Christmas collection was complete. One must really believe in the magic of the season <span style="font-size: large;">☺</span></li>
<li>I was glad our noisy neighbors won the title instead of <i>You-kNow-Who-lAh</i>. And I am particularly pleased to finally see the Red Devils back on track. <i>GGMU4EVA </i>:P</li>
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2015 is a year with much excitement to look forward to. A year with lotsa positivity in the soul. Here's to a wonderful year ahead beginning with a new mantra; "<b><i>Difficult roads often lead to beautiful destinations</i></b>".<br />
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<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaos1nawNH_jExu6ko0c8as4d4G8qBbFzIiT178c12ZfbHJIHw4h17H9uwlgmNqH6CstD3p2CdQogYpjMXo5oau-me5VRFMDNsBTjv241AGi7DoLhC7WrfuzryDp1n4XeboDuCuw/s1600/mantra.jpg" height="200" style="border-width: 0px; clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" width="200" /><b><span style="color: red;">HaPpY NeW YeAr 2015!</span></b><br />
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<img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTmW-7hu1sfaT3cjdxoRx0KJ2H-jppN-z4Rke6IzicGQam0WXvQws208bNcVOHGA7va0vG_rVn9OqCtv-7FOWOnprR1y2nNIddWJ5sZjCnfIvkS1NfxTklZRw3rKBLtPkLk38Q7g/s1600/sign_transparent.png" height="44" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378627068921071554" style="border-width: 0px; float: left; height: 54px; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; text-align: justify; width: 120px;" width="188" />
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Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07253244009276715684noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5712084.post-32328821549559659912014-10-05T23:46:00.000+08:002014-10-22T16:45:17.344+08:00Beauty Tips: Apply Mascara Like A Pro<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Coming from a girl who uses minimal make up, I believe in better enhancing the eyes when the occasion calls for it with the use of the perfect <a href="http://www.zalora.com.my/women/beauty/mascara/" target="_blank">mascara</a>. And I rely on these 3 simple steps on how to make the eyes pop.<br />
<ol style="text-align: left;">
<li><b>Start off with an eyelash curler
</b><br /> Begin by curling your lashes from the root but making sure not to get the skin of your eyelid into the eyelash curlers. The tip is to hold it for about 10 seconds before releasing. You may choose to repeat the step until you are satisfied with the degree of curve it gives to your lashes.
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<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ_X-tGV42QukiOlnMN2qzjXcOW7YJ0FqwWNA6CqY2JK0suCZzx8NCa9w7gJ8462EIMhvdHGMaDC53OueFNfMd0g5GNSOqGuJCe3E2N7HLhg5Drj6ChStCm_clAxJvJhi1EJFxkg/s1600/curler.jpg" height="215" style="border-width: 0px; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" width="320" /></div>
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<li><b>Handle the mascara wand with care</b>
<br /> Avoid from pumping the wand in and out of the mascara container as this pushes air into the tube drying up the mascara solutions which causes clumping. The best way to handle the wand is by gently twisting the wand in a circular motion in order to get a sufficient smooth amount of mascara. Additionally to further avoid clumpy lashes, make sure to wipe off any excess each time the wand is removed.
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<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib5RAx8JKzLlRb6Eo4jUMaKzx-Jnce02L3ClNIVPHuN73FOR_6qEXnnHZ6CfhGlJo9DBZEvH3_Q0FwYnFy2QnZG5QeUxwRwxhjT-KxQshxB4D47NSDgEnMrv9xXaJTO_dcw8YY8g/s1600/mascara.jpg" height="212" style="border-width: 0px; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" width="320" /></div>
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<li><b>Apply more than two layers of mascara
</b><br /> To get a nice naturally long thick lashes, you should opt to apply more than two coats of mascara. Keep in mind though to apply it stroke after stroke instead of waiting for it to dry as it might cause flaking.
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<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE5Ga6xMX6kau8r4M17Rw3zLVztcBNd51fLN-mjXb7rMKamCIrp8PZQe55u41S46cIt-AsGeMyMSPqsyeuP4EEqJeKBygPuMlgH02Ndm-_Rvqc6F7qdJ51AR07_seLxkbypUIyVQ/s1600/mascara2.jpg" height="265" style="border-width: 0px; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" width="320" /></div>
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Lastly, practice and practice!<br />
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And if you are wondering where to get amazing new mascaras, try checking out ZALORA as they offer a wide range of mascara selection online from various brands at their website.<br />
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<i>Note: This is a collaboration post with Zalora. All words and views are the author's own.</i><br />
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Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07253244009276715684noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5712084.post-65183467483204806302014-09-16T18:19:00.000+08:002014-09-16T18:19:10.880+08:00Rec!pe: Peach Oat Smoothie<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAp-eHqiHDjLnVmifcPKU7Slnk65dasNRuTm4ZmWWCDGPwxg-YcBVVCD9xEvTf01IYtZP-5pVkX7k3TuO8mnr2epISwB4gNjk4B-VDONiBlc8cvRQvM1JwF_mDm7nQOXMV73M-rw/s1600/IMG_4799.JPG" height="420" style="border-width: 0px; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" width="580" /></div>
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Been a while since my once-upon-a-smoothie-craze so I thought I ought to give the blender a much needed workout. As with long weekends, everything under the sun felt rather peachy, wrapped under a soft, relaxing glow. Hence the peach-themed smoothie.<br />
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Combining peach, oats, and chia seeds, this smoothie is sweet, wholesome and packed full of healthy goodness. And it's very filling too. Perfect for breakfast or a snack.</div>
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<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBxQSCv65PuFpxuXr0Dn27rlWNB8aqqlwrqTj4wFlUwX6o0pSATJr8Uk8XnCv65AAxT9ShZDpXRH65v_wNoo4y_fFbpHCyu1ms0ZToF2U__lWSzmAUvxU-HKZ1ng1wKNs40R7VyQ/s1600/IMG_4802.JPG" height="580" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" width="580" /></div>
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<i>What You Need:</i></div>
<div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>2 ripe peaches, quartered, pits removed</li>
<li>1 tbsp chia seeds <i>(I used organic & gluten free)</i></li>
<li>1/4 cup rolled oats</li>
<li>1 frozen banana <i>(peeled before freezing)</i></li>
<li>1/4 cup fresh orange juice</li>
<li>1/2 cup low fat milk</li>
<li>1 tbsp honey for added sweetness <i>(optional)</i></li>
</ul>
<i>What To Do:</i></div>
<div>
<ol style="text-align: left;">
<li>Add all ingredients into blender and let set for 5-10 minutes for oats and chia seeds to soak.</li>
<li>Blend until smooth and pour into glasses.</li>
<li>Add honey as needed and serve immediately. </li>
</ol>
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Voila. Here's to a peachy week ahead!<br />
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<img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTmW-7hu1sfaT3cjdxoRx0KJ2H-jppN-z4Rke6IzicGQam0WXvQws208bNcVOHGA7va0vG_rVn9OqCtv-7FOWOnprR1y2nNIddWJ5sZjCnfIvkS1NfxTklZRw3rKBLtPkLk38Q7g/s1600/sign_transparent.png" height="44" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378627068921071554" style="border-width: 0px; float: left; height: 54px; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; text-align: justify; width: 120px;" width="188" />
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Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07253244009276715684noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5712084.post-54381652865274760772014-07-15T17:18:00.000+08:002014-07-15T17:19:12.951+08:00Rec!pe: Creamy Crunchy Cucumber Avocado Salad<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Avocados have always seem exotic to me. The pear-shaped fruit with a rough exterior and a smooth silky interior. Truth be told, I have not tried many avocado dishes except on the occasional sushi rolls, guacamole, and salsa. In fact, I see it more in beauty products than on menus.</div>
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Lately though, I've been seeing avocados (<i>and cherries too</i>) in the fruit aisle while avocado recipes have been popping up in the few food blogs and sites that I subscribed to. Long story short, I decided to make something that involves avocado at home. </div>
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And voila, my first creamy crunchy cucumber avocado salad.<br />
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<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHwQx5MaRIjCxO-kZpmBIV9XqwHS6v6gFHrNS8MXP-EGDKaQVPrudKDPoAlessqH4z-xFBFtl48CZgRhhkcB5rnEASJszpFPhNOFfJa-zKnaqDEF9Pu-TnJ6yLaZQsqQe7oEThpQ/s1600/IMG_4636.JPG" height="300" style="border-width: 0px;" width="400" /></div>
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Perfect for summertime (<i>and it's always more or less summer here in good ol' Penang</i>), this salad is deliciously refreshing with the crunchy cucumber, the velvety avocado and the creamy feta cheese combined with zesty olive and lime dressing. (T<i>he recipe called for chopped mint leaves too but I didn't have any in the kitchen so I omitted them this round.)</i><br />
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<i>What You Need:</i></div>
<div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>2 cucumbers</li>
<li>2 ripe avocados, diced</li>
<li>Feta cheese, diced</li>
<li>2 tablespoons olive oil</li>
<li>2 tablespoons lime juice</li>
<li>(<i>1/2 cup chopped mint</i>)</li>
<li>Pepper to taste</li>
</ul>
<i>What To Do:</i></div>
<div>
<ol style="text-align: left;">
<li>Peel the cucumbers, cut them in half lengthwise and scrape out the seeds. Cut the cucumbers into 1/2-inch pieces. </li>
<li>Put diced avocados into a salad bowl, drizzle with lime juice and toss gently.</li>
<li>To make dressing, whisk together olive oil and lime juice.</li>
<li>Add cucumber, (<i>mint</i>), feta cheese to the avocados. Add the dressing and gently combine. Add pepper to taste. </li>
<li>Let stand in the fridge for about 30 minutes for the flavors to blend. </li>
</ol>
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And now that I had had my first attempt at avocados, I do have a feeling that there will be more coming along soon...<br />
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<img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTmW-7hu1sfaT3cjdxoRx0KJ2H-jppN-z4Rke6IzicGQam0WXvQws208bNcVOHGA7va0vG_rVn9OqCtv-7FOWOnprR1y2nNIddWJ5sZjCnfIvkS1NfxTklZRw3rKBLtPkLk38Q7g/s1600/sign_transparent.png" height="44" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378627068921071554" style="border-width: 0px; float: left; height: 54px; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; text-align: justify; width: 120px;" width="188" />
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Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07253244009276715684noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5712084.post-48401059574870533312014-06-29T12:29:00.000+08:002014-06-29T12:32:21.722+08:00The Wars of Heaven<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Wars-Heaven-Richard-Currey/dp/1939650054/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1404016306&sr=1-1" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGSaZCkrgHSh93I7Tbg5Zk4H3iJcULSetIyuvRSmXDwEgAwqkAfcvqR0ZwVgfN0UV4I2xgYFqMUJXzUPjT-NLRQsR-zll_G79Js5U0t9zkHEiACGbbHrwgsZGaYZv5evGV-MBLtw/s1600/heaven.jpg" height="320" width="209" /></a></div>
Received this book from LibraryThing's Early Reviewers - a book of short stories (and one novella) of everyday people of West Virginia during the Great Depression.<br />
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Be it a farmer, a coal miner, or a clown, each has his own story to tell and they kind of helped filled my imagination of what it must have been like there in the 1900's. Coupled with Currey's great choices of words, the stories were almost poetry-like and lyrical.<br />
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The novella, The Love of a Good Woman, was thought provoking. Is it heroic or just plain crazy to go all out to help a woman with a sick baby? Borrowing a car without permission, and taking money straight out of a bank's cash drawer in the name of a loan. All while made up with a clown-painted face... <br />
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Truly, is our society today as forgiving when it comes to peculiar individuals?<br />
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Overall well-written, easy-to-read stories.<br />
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My Rating: <img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA7NRJZd8-EabHPY6kP1EemCAny3zJoOcwm0MKlLv4AhIN1fadNUrjC2R5pyx_FVGu6lC-ZK_GMcNmTittgHNTC-Tu4i-UnJyx4dGphHVxHELON4WN8SfPMsyhVmKncE89x2macg/" style="border-width: 0px;" /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA7NRJZd8-EabHPY6kP1EemCAny3zJoOcwm0MKlLv4AhIN1fadNUrjC2R5pyx_FVGu6lC-ZK_GMcNmTittgHNTC-Tu4i-UnJyx4dGphHVxHELON4WN8SfPMsyhVmKncE89x2macg/" style="border-width: 0px;" /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA7NRJZd8-EabHPY6kP1EemCAny3zJoOcwm0MKlLv4AhIN1fadNUrjC2R5pyx_FVGu6lC-ZK_GMcNmTittgHNTC-Tu4i-UnJyx4dGphHVxHELON4WN8SfPMsyhVmKncE89x2macg/" style="border-width: 0px;" /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9qUdvlpFCoRx3zUrmeFoH1sJ3AEiR4qFAYJyUdeTAXnH5-WltKvE-wLypo29q2A-3f9c8NpjClFlTonqrYTSQpNWVbf3yb3vuVq3fpkBQhwvlschHPM_OSCmfP9TXeuLyZPMNIA/" style="border-width: 0px;" /><br />
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<i>P/S: Aside to the book, I would also like to particularly note the accompanying reprint of an article that appeared in the Washington Post in 2008. This seven and a half pages of A4 papers came together along with the book and it detailed the history of the publishing company (which published this same book) and how one individual went the extra mile to do something extraordinary in founding and funding the literary press from his own salary even while he himself suffered from Trigeminal Neuralgia, the worst painful condition known to humankind. He also happened to come from a family with a dramatic history, going from "riches to rags" almost overnight. I must applaud his passion and devotion. A well-written article of a true story of an admirable individual.</i><br />
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Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07253244009276715684noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5712084.post-40900439264287981952014-05-12T21:34:00.000+08:002014-07-15T17:24:14.110+08:00What's Cooking?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
The books on the shelves have been giving me dagger stares for quite sometime now. Particularly those cookbooks.<br />
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But thanks to the long weekend, I finally have extra time in hands to whip something up. Also I have been wanting to try out the few <i>kawaii </i><strike>cookie</strike> bread cutters I bought oh so many, many moons ago..</div>
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So voila, here's dinner for the family tonight. Bon appétit!<br />
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<img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTmW-7hu1sfaT3cjdxoRx0KJ2H-jppN-z4Rke6IzicGQam0WXvQws208bNcVOHGA7va0vG_rVn9OqCtv-7FOWOnprR1y2nNIddWJ5sZjCnfIvkS1NfxTklZRw3rKBLtPkLk38Q7g/s1600/sign_transparent.png" height="44" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378627068921071554" style="border-width: 0px; float: left; height: 54px; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; text-align: justify; width: 120px;" width="188" />
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</div>Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07253244009276715684noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5712084.post-56890520549128245442014-04-06T13:09:00.000+08:002014-04-06T19:11:08.974+08:00Sakura, The Penang Version<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKIycD7l8QOTjkncD53wRKqNnLZlpjwxcUtZskyL1M38LGuMIFRHGvPm2TNNsRJX0MxuoZjLkF-zs7ZoxgOZrhibqDg_47COzhfEVTRc0o0Oh3Z3n6_jYOndT_s2ww0n_dfT2S9Q/s1600/IMG_4433.PNG" height="400" style="border-width: 0px; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" width="400" /></div>
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The "Sakura" flowers are in full bloom lately. Though they may not be the real Sakura from Japan but they certainly do make the drive to work a very pleasant journey.<br />
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<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg170tv71KAZ1ccTwOy5NwjtKqiBRceeMBsGc9IrJIT6bbTromYcI9c4bBFxV-UFyFOFg2nwWzChhn14nEuDr_27CCegs5y7gkXU5_TebpavQng4-wHaYYjOjlMfBa7RbW4Easxvw/s1600/IMG_4432.JPG" height="300" style="border-width: 0px; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" width="400" /></div>
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Kudos to the landscaper who had the vision to plant rows of these trees. Your brainchild is definitely bearing <i>flowers</i> now *winks.<br />
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<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5ggnHqDHOUiLreTlGaElucGhyLVojnluSLQ1-ibkeQlVX9Uypug1c8NWr5gzHH_rW124NHYx13N7Fgh3cGnFy6MkGNkynosUZxIYitJMMbCp7j-2fA5yMuhp_dS6JNliZcyEBEQ/s1600/IMG_4428.PNG" height="400" style="border-width: 0px; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" width="300" /></div>
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<i>Update: Thanks to a friend, I now know these are called Tecoma, otherwise also known as the Trumpet tree.</i></div>
Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07253244009276715684noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5712084.post-78452899877588449662014-01-01T09:42:00.000+08:002014-01-01T10:49:15.441+08:002013 Was The Year<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>of learning and a year of exposure which also made it one of my busiest year yet with late nights and a couple of weekends thrown in for good measure. As the Cantonese saying goes <i>"zou dou mou teng thao"</i>... [do till cannot breath]</li>
<li>I made the resolution to write more but though I was <i>lagi </i>[even more] least active in my blog (only 10 posts compared to my supposedly-least-active-year-2012 of 16), I'd liked to think I made up for it from that 50 odd pages of strategic cum research paper complete with diagrams, charts and what-nots that I had to churn out in a mere fortnight...also not to forget the occasional messages, speeches, and announcements I had to crack my head on...</li>
<li><img border="0" height="111" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3HyqPGJ_oHkUInFwEZG_Y0Z3mjqxiIGDts3WaCB1GALt5E5b-2hZ2cSxjB34CkOT8YSP6ph9_5bpPJNa6BQS7aZ2X6ANcSCSHYOByx2OD9qmdoLUoTYn5doSOjeMhVErv-jCTTg/s1600/pgview.jpg" style="border-width: 0px; clear: left; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;" width="400" />I got to view Pearl of the Orient's skyline from the sea, thanks to a complimentary boat ride from my <i>ami d'enfance </i>^.^
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<li>I had no choice but to discontinue <i>mes cours de français</i>, no thanks to the 9am Sat classes. With my weekdays' load, grilling Sat mornings proved too much for my brain to absorb. Still looking to pick up where I left off someday so in the meantime I'll just have to teach myself bits and pieces lest I forget.</li>
<li>I had great meetups with cousins be it the annual CNY K-session or the birthday celebrations...definitely a tradition I intend to practice for as long as possible.. Thank you, guys & gals, you are the best!</li>
<li>of the failed 2013 monthly <i>calendrier</i> wallpaper initiative - it only lasted till February LOL</li>
<li><img border="0" height="156" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE6LmKzzW8xScJsgUxxew9ZrQc24KZVAjY4WNMXPOD1vrBXustyNuBwVEBbgrXPYajX0jMCWdPHAzu0Ci1RDjxA0r762aoKfy2h4sNaDNVnsK-JSqW08l9cSE-Bsnk30yGbHgSjg/s1600/chailatte.jpg" style="border-width: 0px; clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 2em;" width="200" />of the chai latte craze..yumz!
</li>
<li>I did not fly far, only KL...hmm perhaps next year? <i>*fingers crossed</i></li>
<li>the cash register did quite a few ka-chings <i>*grins</i></li>
<li>Jayden aka Captain Cool aka Chi Lam won the hearts of many..yes, it's Team Jayden all the way!</li>
<li>of one of the best series' seasons ever; from the heartwarming and touching episodes of HIMYM and Bones to the teary episodes of Glee (RIP Cory) to the gripping and shocking episodes of Walking Dead, Revenge, and GoT to the super funny BBT....need I say more?</li>
<li>my golden couple Ian & Nina was no more :(</li>
<li><img border="0" height="206" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggfiTBIfAszOGFpgWxjz2XmfADDjrDDE7BmZpDA0nX7M3O5bmj05anYByhxHjIWJobMIL4X8OaugFs_SsaBZ0vCHGQZ-wtonR2-BJkWmRV94pznG06VlJ4f_9Y1BskVRKnSXpfhw/s1600/DB.jpg" style="border-width: 0px; clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;" width="320" />football bid adios to the 2 most impactful individuals in my football-watching history; Becks & Sir Alex, I salute you both for all the great footballing moments you gave us. It was you who got me hooked in the first place and I will forever treasure that once in a lifetime experience; Champions League 2010. San Siro. MU vs AC Milan. [Though I openly wish that you guys were still in the game, particularly when one Moyes is not living up to what a chosen one should be..]</li>
<li>I won my first ever <a href="http://thinkb4aftertot.blogspot.com/2013/06/the-winning-shot.html" target="_blank"><i>photography contest</i></a>.</li>
<li>of good books (I managed 9), great stories and an awesome quote; <i>"Fairy tales are more than true: not because they tell us that dragons exist, but because they tell us that dragons <b><u>can be beaten</u></b>" <b>- </b>Neil Gaiman.</i></li>
<li><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR46VGs46TJwlmxM8E-FDD-JdYbe7Uat4sGT5LYliavsazjzW8Bz-2KichVEzVx1GhoYbBWUZdZXx__SzsIJFXhenymSldY2lrwWp9aNaH4Sxy2HMbCZ-kERHyQC4ysVUruoI2ZQ/s1600/minion.jpg" style="border-width: 0px; clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 2em;" width="200" />of great movies and beautiful animes..think Gatsby, Silver Lining Playbook, Hunger Games 2, Despicable Me 2, Secret World of Arrietty, From Up On Poppy Hill, L'Illusionniste, The Music Never Stopped, This Is The End..and the list goes on.</li>
<li>of the minion fever and moi's got a few <i>'baboi'</i> to show as well (but on to the Tesco's Heroes & Friends now :P)</li>
<li>of The Mouse Trap <i>*winks</i></li>
<li>I danced on stage for the first time in a very long time...</li>
<li>I got a Note 10.1 for Xmas ho ho ho...</li>
<li>of the iOS7 upgrade <i>*hooray!</i></li>
</ul>
<div>
2014 is a year of big plans. A year where every step counts. A year to start it right. So here's to a clear year ahead and a note to self: dragons CAN be beaten! <i>C'est La Vie~ </i></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
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<b><span style="color: red;">HaPpY NeW YeAr 2014!</span></b>
<b><span style="color: red;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://sphotos-g.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash2/26324_10151565207308543_428409812_n.jpg?lvh=1" style="border-width: 0px; clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" width="200" /></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: red;"><br /></span></b></div>
<img alt="" border="0" height="44" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378627068921071554" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTmW-7hu1sfaT3cjdxoRx0KJ2H-jppN-z4Rke6IzicGQam0WXvQws208bNcVOHGA7va0vG_rVn9OqCtv-7FOWOnprR1y2nNIddWJ5sZjCnfIvkS1NfxTklZRw3rKBLtPkLk38Q7g/s1600/sign_transparent.png" style="border-width: 0px; float: left; height: 54px; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; text-align: justify; width: 120px;" width="188" />
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Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07253244009276715684noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5712084.post-29931701484153190832013-09-25T09:00:00.000+08:002013-09-25T09:04:50.266+08:00250913: Coffee Quote of the Day <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: left;">
<i>Everyone should believe in something.</i>
<br />
<i>I believe I'll have another coffee.</i></blockquote>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0F0Rk8fOAq_NFHn1UV-0VkuwaOhcF902YueZz7hBF9Oq5myNa7Hmyy-yDDTkU5GCeO4AExau9IBFRIMBZSk7gnQ6g7-ycPsPPI578zzra5lZSTWvW2JmtrGzobGtFXwiaW6NDaw/s1600/IMG_3974.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="310" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0F0Rk8fOAq_NFHn1UV-0VkuwaOhcF902YueZz7hBF9Oq5myNa7Hmyy-yDDTkU5GCeO4AExau9IBFRIMBZSk7gnQ6g7-ycPsPPI578zzra5lZSTWvW2JmtrGzobGtFXwiaW6NDaw/s1600/IMG_3974.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07253244009276715684noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5712084.post-11568273520151923972013-09-21T21:21:00.005+08:002013-09-21T21:21:51.727+08:00A watch's insight<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Change does not necessary have to be something big or transformational.<br />
It can be as slight as wearing your watch on your right wrist rather than the usual left.<br />
<br />
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<img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiviEx_9p019q6dQywqwPS-DX-MB8_DpT4qP6Hn3xF8uMdwf3hyphenhyphenPSBoyjQ7U5SVc38DzZOOnn9xrl19H9ZE_DTXkN7JslPt4i1GspA9zURo9pccdIkm2mA5HAVWzu7kgfweUntBTQ/s1600/IMG_3969.JPG" style="border-width: 0px; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" width="320" /></div>
<br />
Had this insight when I happened to injure my left wrist while doing some heavy lifting over the weekend - in case you are interested, I now have wolverine claws-like scratches under my wrist - which is a little painful whenever my watch's strap rubs over it.<br />
<br />
The extra weight from the watch felt unusual on my right wrist. For a moment, it's as though my right arm was weaker. My senses was heightened even though I was doing the same stuff I usually do with my right hand; driving, picking up my bag, opening doors....<br />
<br />
I was more aware of my every movement...more cautious if I may put it. Like the learning mechanism in my brain has kicked in and is saying, "Hold on, this is something new. Slow down while I learn.."<br />
<br />
It's a teeny-bit worrying to think how easily we can fall into our comfort zones, our learned & safe zones, and rely on the auto-pilot mode to take over. And after watching a certain drama on the art of flying, I believe it's good to practice one's manual-maneuvering skills once in a while less we forget. You never know when you might need to perform an emergency landing and getting the plane to stop in time before that runway runs out....<br />
<br />
Sometimes small changes are good to help keep us on our toes.<br />
<br />
Perhaps you can try too and share your experience with me :)<br />
<span id="goog_9542793"></span><span id="goog_9542794"></span><br /></div>
<img alt="" border="0" height="44" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378627068921071554" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTmW-7hu1sfaT3cjdxoRx0KJ2H-jppN-z4Rke6IzicGQam0WXvQws208bNcVOHGA7va0vG_rVn9OqCtv-7FOWOnprR1y2nNIddWJ5sZjCnfIvkS1NfxTklZRw3rKBLtPkLk38Q7g/s1600/sign_transparent.png" style="border-width: 0px; float: left; height: 54px; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; text-align: justify; width: 120px;" width="188" />
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Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07253244009276715684noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5712084.post-37458081015496572742013-07-27T17:37:00.000+08:002013-07-27T20:52:14.514+08:00A Saturday Project<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I've gone without a pocket tissue holder for a while now since I misplaced my Fendi holder, which I got at a real bargain at their outlet in Florence a few years back.<br />
<br />
Not anymore.<br />
<br />
I've decided to make my own. I realized I didn't have much material to begin with so I had to make do with whatever I could find from my trusty albeit a lil' dusty craft box.<br />
<br />
Staying true to my motto of "Keep it Simple" when it comes to designs (also an excuse to make up for my lack of creativeness :P), I spent a few hours of my Saturday, measuring, cutting, and sewing..<br />
<br />
Hah, I can't even recalled when was the last time I held a needle. Lucky thing I still remember how to do my "<i>Insang Pari</i>" ("Blanket Stitch"). Thank you <i>Kemahiran Hidup </i>(Living Skills) subject in F3!<br />
<br />
And voila, here's yours truly's new pocket tissue holder..100% handmade :)<br />
<br />
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<img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZHUlZEUPAbhtNpTRVLK5cfpaHMACOJviDT7n0OTUmRI71rNY3vnHICvneIbLGKTnsPAAX91jJvO-juCC9-13hUWPJR_xPfMn21aQ20mvFYWe0jI5AXsYYPJVbFpeP2zbPYcHpVw/s1600/IMG_3330.JPG" style="border-width: 0px; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" width="320" /></div>
<span id="goog_9542793"></span><span id="goog_9542794"></span><br /></div>
<img alt="" border="0" height="44" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378627068921071554" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTmW-7hu1sfaT3cjdxoRx0KJ2H-jppN-z4Rke6IzicGQam0WXvQws208bNcVOHGA7va0vG_rVn9OqCtv-7FOWOnprR1y2nNIddWJ5sZjCnfIvkS1NfxTklZRw3rKBLtPkLk38Q7g/s1600/sign_transparent.png" style="border-width: 0px; float: left; height: 54px; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; text-align: justify; width: 120px;" width="188" />
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Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07253244009276715684noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5712084.post-22855156921947584622013-07-14T12:40:00.000+08:002013-07-14T12:41:45.606+08:00With Eyes Closed<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<img border="0" height="310" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPrkPoiIrDy4luP64ywG76USoCzpzUM3aVwNVcpOMHOgg71r1G4AP_329agQGl5gsNKpPGokVnVTKyb5T_8hw3ERwWF3656ZcvOO9unLDP9rdjlmoBa4Hx2HdmPLc5NNx3pqI7KQ/s1600/IMG_3279.JPG" style="border-width: 0px; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" width="400" /></div>
A tranquil Sunday just lying on the floor,<br />
Feeling the coolness of the floor tiles against the skin,<br />
the soft breeze from the ceiling fan gently caressing the face and playfully rustling the hair.<br />
Inhaling the delicate scent of a Rose 4 Reines perfumed sachet.<br />
Listening to the chirping of birds beyond the window under a cool, cloudy sky,<br />
the cheerful cries of neighboring kids playing hide-and-seek,<br />
with the occasional friendly barks joining in the fun..<br />
And all away from the hustle and bustle of the traffic.<br />
<br />
Some days should be enjoyed with eyes closed.<br />
<br />
Peace, Tranquility, Serenity.<br />
Refresh. Recharge. Reconnect.<br />
<br />
Have a wonderful day, everyone!<br />
<br /></div>
<img alt="" border="0" height="44" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378627068921071554" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTmW-7hu1sfaT3cjdxoRx0KJ2H-jppN-z4Rke6IzicGQam0WXvQws208bNcVOHGA7va0vG_rVn9OqCtv-7FOWOnprR1y2nNIddWJ5sZjCnfIvkS1NfxTklZRw3rKBLtPkLk38Q7g/s1600/sign_transparent.png" style="border-width: 0px; float: left; height: 54px; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; text-align: justify; width: 120px;" width="188" /></div>
Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07253244009276715684noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5712084.post-29837477061956796822013-06-11T22:51:00.000+08:002013-06-11T22:55:44.730+08:00The Winning Shot<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Well, not exactly first prize.<br />
<br />
Won 6th place to be exact. A winning shot nonetheless, seeing that it was a win in my first ever photography & caption contest.<br />
<br />
I don't usually participate in contests where I have to crack my head for slogans - I'm not creative like that. This one was a little different, maybe because it looked and sounded easier than all other contests. Oh, and did I mention the grand prize was a return air tix + 4D3N accommodations to Switzerland? (That sure got me seating up straight..)<br />
<br />
Anyways, in conjunction with French Language Week 2013, all I had to do was take a shot of a building or a signage or a billboard, anything basically, that has a French word on it - name of a shop for example - and make a caption of the photo utilizing the French word. Piece of cake, isn't it?<br />
<br />
Wait till you have to round almost the entire Penang in search for a shop with a French name, like I did. There were a few shops with French names though the challenge was not only to get a decently nice shot of the shop but to find one with a name that I could use to make a creative-sounding caption!<br />
<br />
What I did was to capture the photos first and figure out the caption later. This way I would have a variety of words to select from for my "best" caption. And so began a French shop scouting adventure for me - La Vanille, Les Memoirs, Alliance Française, La France, Mon Délice Patisserie ....yes, I'll be able to tell you where they all are now <i>*winks</i><br />
<br />
Submitted just in time before the deadline. Yup, to be honest I did everything 2 days before it was due. Shuey even watsapp-ed me a photo she took in KL when I told her I might pass because I was lazy to go hunting. It was nice of her though I probably wouldn't have won if I had used her "less-than-sharp" photo, if you know what I mean LOL <i>[no offence, Shuey!]</i><br />
<br />
At the end of the day, well, I may not have gotten that Switzerland trip but I did win a products and treatment pax worth RM500. And I'm glad I won the 6th place rather than say the 4th spot, which was 1 free term of French classes at the French Alliance KL. Now, that would most definitely have gone to waste as I am presently already doing a wobbly juggling act with my weekly French classes, not to mention that KL isn't exactly 5 mins drive from where I live...<br />
<br />
So if you are curious to know, here's yours truly's humble submission - nothing fancy really..<br />
<br />
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Till the next easy contest, au revoir! ^^</div>
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<img alt="" border="0" height="44" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378627068921071554" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTmW-7hu1sfaT3cjdxoRx0KJ2H-jppN-z4Rke6IzicGQam0WXvQws208bNcVOHGA7va0vG_rVn9OqCtv-7FOWOnprR1y2nNIddWJ5sZjCnfIvkS1NfxTklZRw3rKBLtPkLk38Q7g/s1600/sign_transparent.png" style="border-width: 0px; float: left; height: 54px; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; text-align: justify; width: 120px;" width="188" /><br />
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Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07253244009276715684noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5712084.post-9167622004197617802013-06-09T19:46:00.002+08:002013-06-11T10:13:09.629+08:00Here's To Never Growing Up<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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There comes a point in life when you know you have to grow up.<br />
<br />
But not tonight.<br />
<br />
Tonight, let's make a toast..."Here's to never growing up!"<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/sXd2WxoOP5g" width="560"></iframe>
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<br />
HTNGU, the first single from her upcoming 5th album, is a song by the beautiful and talented Avril Lavigne. The song is so catchy that one can't help but hope that they really needn't have to grow up. And you should really check out the MV - it makes allusions to her very first single "Complicated"; same outfit, same skateboard and all. I must say, 11 years into the industry, it's as though Avril never aged a day!<br />
<br />
Can't wait for her to stop by our shores again for a concert. I can totally see myself rocking to this song<img border="0" height="30" src="http://us.cdn1.123rf.com/168nwm/fizzgig/fizzgig1007/fizzgig100700001/7313935-heavy-metal-rock-and-roll-devil-horns-hand-sign-with-a-black-leather-studded-bracelet.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;" width="30" /><br />
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i><span style="color: #666666;">** Singing Radiohead at the top of our lungs</span></i><br />
<i><span style="color: #666666;"> With the boom box blaring as we're falling in love</span></i><br />
<i><span style="color: #666666;"> I got a bottle of whatever, but it's getting us drunk</span></i><br />
<i><span style="color: #666666;"> Singing here's to never growing up</span></i><br />
<span style="color: #666666;"><i><br /></i>
<i>Call up all our friend</i></span><br />
<i><span style="color: #666666;">Go hard this weekend</span></i><br />
<i><span style="color: #666666;">For no damn reason,</span></i><br />
<i><span style="color: #666666;">I don't think we'll ever change</span></i><br />
<span style="color: #666666;"><i><br /></i>
<i>Meet you at the spot,</i></span><br />
<i><span style="color: #666666;">Half past ten o'clock</span></i><br />
<i><span style="color: #666666;">We don't ever stop,</span></i><br />
<i><span style="color: #666666;">And we're never gonna change</span></i><br />
<span style="color: #666666;"><i><br /></i>
<i>* Say, oh just say forever, stay</i></span><br />
<i><span style="color: #666666;"> If you stay forever, hey</span></i><br />
<i><span style="color: #666666;"> We can stay forever young</span></i><br />
<span style="color: #666666;"><i><br /></i>
<i>[Repeat **]</i></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666;"><i><br /></i>
<i># We'll be running down the street, yelling kiss my a**</i></span><br />
<i><span style="color: #666666;"> I'm like yeah whatever, we're still living like that,</span></i><br />
<i><span style="color: #666666;"> When the sun's going down, we'll be raising our cups</span></i><br />
<i><span style="color: #666666;"> Singing here's to never growing up</span></i><br />
<span style="color: #666666;"><i><br /></i>
<i>Oh woah oh woah here's to never growing up</i></span><br />
<i><span style="color: #666666;">Oh woah oh woah here's to never growing up</span></i><br />
<span style="color: #666666;"><i><br /></i>
<i>We live like rock stars</i></span><br />
<i><span style="color: #666666;">Dance on every bar</span></i><br />
<i><span style="color: #666666;">This is who we are,</span></i><br />
<i><span style="color: #666666;">I don't think we'll ever change</span></i><br />
<span style="color: #666666;"><i><br /></i>
<i>They say just grow up but they don't know us</i></span><br />
<i><span style="color: #666666;">We don't give a f**k and we're never gonna change</span></i><br />
<span style="color: #666666;"><i><br /></i>
<i>[Repeat *]</i></span><br />
<i><span style="color: #666666;">[Repeat **]</span></i><br />
<i><span style="color: #666666;">[Repeat #]</span></i><br />
<span style="color: #666666;"><i><br /></i>
<i>Oh woah oh woah here's to never growing up<br />
Oh woah oh woah here's to never growing up
</i></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666;"><br /></span>
<i><span style="color: #666666;">Say, won't you stay forever stay</span></i><br />
<i><span style="color: #666666;">If you stay forever hey</span></i><br />
<i><span style="color: #666666;">We can stay forever young</span></i><br />
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<i>Ohhhhhhh</i></span><br />
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<i>[Repeat **]</i></span><br />
<i><span style="color: #666666;">[Repeat #]</span></i><br />
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<i>Oh woah oh woah here's to never growing up
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<i><span style="color: #666666;">Oh woah oh woah ( raise your glass and say )<br />
Here's to never growing up
</span></i></blockquote>
<embed autostart="false" height="50" loop="false" playcount="1" src="http://aftertot.opendrive.com/files/71914053_DeJLN/Avril%20Lavigne%20-%20Here's%20to%20Never%20Growing%20Up.mp3" type="audio/mpeg" width="200"></embed>
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Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07253244009276715684noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5712084.post-66780671681016587562013-06-02T15:33:00.000+08:002013-06-09T19:41:48.044+08:00The Great Gatsby<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1o1B5HgGUyrIM3tWxQLLY1peramHv8mzL-IccSdkI6YTj200Tbng7tXJZ6EQ4weXAqHY5JwN1j5BVClRURVl0W9udo9Z4mCHlyFt6SvclM8QPnokUX3yxsl6g2V7eFvumnd7WoQ/s1600/Gatsby.jpg" style="border-width: 0px; clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" width="400" /></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-size: 50px; letter-spacing: -4px; line-height: 80%;">O</span>ne of the best movies to reach our shores this summer.</div>
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With names like Leonardo DiCaprio, Tobey Maguire and Carey Mulligan among the cast, how could it not be. Which is why I am rather surprised at the minimal screening The Great Gatsby is getting. Even the cinema was packed right up to the first neck-breaking row.</div>
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The film is an adaptation of F. Scott Fitzgerald's 1925 novel of the same name and it follows the story of the mysterious Jay Gatsby, as recounted by his neighbor, Nick. The movie takes place in New York at the height of the Roaring Twenties so expect nothing but the most elaborate of sets. From iconic costumes, flashy cars, pompous carnival-like parties at the grand mansions of the rich upper class right down to the filthy "valley of ashes", an industrial dumping ground where the not-so-rich stays, one must really applaud the details that were put into bringing everything to live.</div>
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The storyline itself is dramatic and shocking yet filled with comedic moments that one could not help but be sucked into the jazziness of it all - not unlike how Nick was swept off his feet the moment he moved to West Egg, Long Island. Imagine he had to seek psychiatric help after that!</div>
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And then there is the soundtrack. The Great Gatsby featured a beautiful selection of scores and songs but the one that most stood out would definitely be the theme song, "Young and Beautiful", performed by the talented Lana Del Rey. She totally captured the soul of the song and the heart of the movie. When the snippet of the song came up in one of the scenes, it literally brought tears to my eyes. Such a sad yet surreal feeling...</div>
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I do not want to be dishing out spoilers but my heart does go out for Jay Gatsby and I concur with what Nick shouted to him toward the end of the movie:</div>
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<i>"They're a rotten crowd. You're worth the whole damn bunch put together!"</i></div>
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Indeed he's worth more than they will ever be.</div>
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<span style="color: #666666;"><i>Ad finis fidelis</i>.</span></div>
<embed autostart="false" height="50" loop="false" playcount="1" src="http://aftertot.opendrive.com/files/71574092_mDEG5/Lana_Del_Rey-Young_And_Beautiful.mp3" type="audio/mpeg" width="200"></embed>
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My Rating:<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA7NRJZd8-EabHPY6kP1EemCAny3zJoOcwm0MKlLv4AhIN1fadNUrjC2R5pyx_FVGu6lC-ZK_GMcNmTittgHNTC-Tu4i-UnJyx4dGphHVxHELON4WN8SfPMsyhVmKncE89x2macg/" style="border-width: 0px;" /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA7NRJZd8-EabHPY6kP1EemCAny3zJoOcwm0MKlLv4AhIN1fadNUrjC2R5pyx_FVGu6lC-ZK_GMcNmTittgHNTC-Tu4i-UnJyx4dGphHVxHELON4WN8SfPMsyhVmKncE89x2macg/" style="border-width: 0px;" /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA7NRJZd8-EabHPY6kP1EemCAny3zJoOcwm0MKlLv4AhIN1fadNUrjC2R5pyx_FVGu6lC-ZK_GMcNmTittgHNTC-Tu4i-UnJyx4dGphHVxHELON4WN8SfPMsyhVmKncE89x2macg/" style="border-width: 0px;" /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA7NRJZd8-EabHPY6kP1EemCAny3zJoOcwm0MKlLv4AhIN1fadNUrjC2R5pyx_FVGu6lC-ZK_GMcNmTittgHNTC-Tu4i-UnJyx4dGphHVxHELON4WN8SfPMsyhVmKncE89x2macg/" style="border-width: 0px;" /></div>
Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07253244009276715684noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5712084.post-52422483853345225542013-06-01T19:20:00.000+08:002013-06-01T19:27:58.324+08:00Eighty Tree Cafe<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIjL7WDDTBdPAMRKopfsPGZzubArMW-wkctPJjnEibk_kpPCcSxfRboteCFVcCZs004-N-R5wUI7w8vtZD7YtxMkZJrzjUUGu1J1jFoJXdGLicZ5WobUCg8e7g_203eCf2ZayL0Q/s1600/IMG_3099.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 0em; margin-right: 0em;"><img border="0" height="518" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIjL7WDDTBdPAMRKopfsPGZzubArMW-wkctPJjnEibk_kpPCcSxfRboteCFVcCZs004-N-R5wUI7w8vtZD7YtxMkZJrzjUUGu1J1jFoJXdGLicZ5WobUCg8e7g_203eCf2ZayL0Q/s1600/IMG_3099.JPG" style="border-width: 0px; clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: -1em; margin-left: -1em;" width="600" /></a></div>
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It was a case of serendipity.., stumbled upon the place as we were walking along Lebuh Cintra, with another destination in mind. The place looked inviting so we decided to check it out.<br />
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Eighty Tree is a cozy little cafe, almost invisible, in one of the many rows old pre-war shop-lots that make up the heart of George Town. At a glance, it was pleasantly decorated with knick-knacks, polaroids, artificial potted plants, books and what-nots, giving out a warm ambiance. It felt like as though one could easily laze the afternoon away here, sipping on coffees and nibbling on crackers, while the world sped by outside...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1BR_pcOVgwy8uYckVdP9GXm2AxDf2gAGDFMiWlt-fkGFOt_IBB7Ua2gciU3SAmZFJv7aT_YRMW8IijpifYQmOT6xzkRZpbGt1scNAtSYvIcOGFe-tJtJKDWaOzhf-64aQ-lnpsQ/s1600/IMG_3098_edited.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="242" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1BR_pcOVgwy8uYckVdP9GXm2AxDf2gAGDFMiWlt-fkGFOt_IBB7Ua2gciU3SAmZFJv7aT_YRMW8IijpifYQmOT6xzkRZpbGt1scNAtSYvIcOGFe-tJtJKDWaOzhf-64aQ-lnpsQ/s1600/IMG_3098_edited.JPG" style="border-width: 0px;" width="320" /></a>The menu looked pretty decent, with beautifully captured shots that showed some mouth-watering delights - toasts, soups, pastas, poultry, etc. From light snacks to more hefty meals, Eight Tree has a selection tailored for almost everyone. </div>
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Except there are no cakes. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjECcfOgwbt5zc2KbpqYSPLvwxdtc7N3CxLw3u0_ODBdMP5mfyI7WE86vwD6-q2nV9RRwny_3vlqcAjL4G2oztfEtie1Dp31o8_HcPiKFzHAokW8muwJcyZox34co2Xb3UpzfuGWA/s1600/IMG_3096_edited.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="244" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjECcfOgwbt5zc2KbpqYSPLvwxdtc7N3CxLw3u0_ODBdMP5mfyI7WE86vwD6-q2nV9RRwny_3vlqcAjL4G2oztfEtie1Dp31o8_HcPiKFzHAokW8muwJcyZox34co2Xb3UpzfuGWA/s1600/IMG_3096_edited.JPG" style="border-width: 0px;" width="320" /></a>One would think it's a norm for quaint little cafes like Eighty Tree to serve cakes and desserts. But nop, the owner mentioned about not being one of those "cafes", if I heard correctly. Anyway, it was fine by me seeing I am not really a dessert person myself <i>*winks</i></div>
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The choices of coffee caught my eye too. There were items like toffee coffee, charcoal-brewed coffee, tiramisu coffee, among others. Quite a fresh list from the usual mocha-s, cappuccinos, and lattes, if you know what I mean. Coffee was served on a nice tray with mini crackers to savor.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9VfAtx_a0ImDPHI99LRn1V3GjxoUenHwwTL0RrycVNG_s-yxp1rjjVf38WiyTRaL9Sfn4s4XJRa87uv45qPOGYZc_XXGQq-CxCZsyUXTomqh1ZBlhnHsDb6V2yLHSTnxlaC60zQ/s1600/IMG_3097_edited.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="244" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9VfAtx_a0ImDPHI99LRn1V3GjxoUenHwwTL0RrycVNG_s-yxp1rjjVf38WiyTRaL9Sfn4s4XJRa87uv45qPOGYZc_XXGQq-CxCZsyUXTomqh1ZBlhnHsDb6V2yLHSTnxlaC60zQ/s1600/IMG_3097_edited.JPG" style="border-width: 0px;" width="320" /></a>I ordered the most interesting item on the menu - the candy floss toast. Actually it was more like marshmallow toast; made of rows of marshmallows on top of 2 pieces of toast and drizzled with chocolate syrup. Not a very healthy snack at all, hah. And while I had expected it to be sticky, I hadn't anticipate a layer of peanut butter underneath. Talk about peanut butter overload....definitely a one-timer for me.<br />
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And I've had better mushroom soups before - this one was just straight from Campbell. I guess the owner's right about not being one of those "cafes". Maybe someday I'll have to give the mains a chance and see how they fair.<br />
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For now, Eighty Tree is an alright-y place but they might need to do a little bit more than just a comfy corner to stay on the map.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><span style="color: #999999;">Eighty Tree Cafe</span></i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><span style="color: #999999;">83, Lebuh Cintra</span></i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><span style="color: #999999;">10100 Penang</span></i></span></div>
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Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07253244009276715684noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5712084.post-23710678070105835392013-01-27T17:23:00.002+08:002013-01-27T17:28:51.460+08:00iPhone: Bonnie's Brunch 2<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<i>Time to review this game in the midst of the long weekend. It has been backlogged for a while now and I feel a little guilty for not doing it earlier. Anyways, here goes my 2 cents...</i><br />
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<img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmagxqg-N88l7TvK-F1hKTFS9N7fmxtE6WtVIjASxvoniEsD6lTQy-TBirN0CPJ-wE_OzBoqJMxzCNCTFRQ4qT2Roihnzc-o5zW6oe6KGZqLrLh3XIdJqXxJ8qCdOOnAufffOTkA/s320/IMG_2941.PNG" style="border-width: 0px; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" width="320" /></div>
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<a href="http://www.bonniesbrunch.com/" target="_blank"><i><b>Bonnie's Brunch 2</b></i></a>, the sequel to Bonnie's Brunch (read my review <a href="http://thinkb4aftertot.blogspot.com/2011/06/iphone-bonnies-brunch.html" target="_blank"><i><b>here</b></i></a>), was released sometime end of 2012. The game play stays true to its predecessor - serving a variety of brunches to customers while moving from place to place. The range of food items stays very much the same too; from croissants to bagels, tacos to hot-dogs as well as sandwiches with different type of breads and fillings (hams, eggs, cheese, lettuce, sauces, etc). Even the type of customers do not deviate much. Though this time around, there is an impatient cute-looking alien who will not hesitate to electrocute your other customers if let to wait for too long...so watch out.<br />
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And while the first game took place in France, leading to the City of Lights, Bonnie's Brunch 2 travels the USA, starting from The Big Apple. So we get to enjoy a different set of lovely artworks as we play. And if by chance you get tired of that, Bonnie's Brunch 2 now allows you to change the scenery with a background photo of your own. A little personalization feature but doesn't alter the game play in any way.<br />
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<img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjphpjpHp-OSO34dFDQt7GB71UOhowrwUr00liyeMdJvsb0bKsynwc_Zyjb06-IlwFyABGPsatLEsuv_7Sf1sQxZ-o4KT89Hzuu0Vg918UIohjHU5buCMbtUL8RgVvvtVKddk7cFg/s320/IMG_2942.PNG" style="border-width: 0px; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" width="320" /></div>
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Also with Bonnie's Brunch 2, you can now make use of the coins you earned to buy "help" items - items that aim to assist you to achieve your goals much easily/quickly. To give you an idea, there's the Wealthy Candle (customer will give more tips), the Patient Music (increase customers' patience levels), the Speedy Power (speeds up your equipments; toasters and the likes of it), and a few others.<br />
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In truth, Bonnie's Brunch 2 might not be your cup of tea if you are expecting something entirely different. It'll work if you are a Bonnie's fan or if you are into this genre of time management games. Personally, I believe the difficulty level can and should be up a little more. I clearly did not have to try very hard to get 3-Star achievements in all levels. But I did make use of a couple of help items along the way....it wasn't like I had any other place to spend my "hard-earned" gold coins, eh? <i>*winks</i><br />
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One last note, there are a total of 8 chapters (10 levels per chapter) in Bonnie's Brunch 2 but only 6 are unlocked at the initial purchase. The remaining 2 chapters will have to cost another $0.99. Worthy or not, that's for you to decide.<br />
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My Rating:<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA7NRJZd8-EabHPY6kP1EemCAny3zJoOcwm0MKlLv4AhIN1fadNUrjC2R5pyx_FVGu6lC-ZK_GMcNmTittgHNTC-Tu4i-UnJyx4dGphHVxHELON4WN8SfPMsyhVmKncE89x2macg/" style="border-width: 0px;" /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA7NRJZd8-EabHPY6kP1EemCAny3zJoOcwm0MKlLv4AhIN1fadNUrjC2R5pyx_FVGu6lC-ZK_GMcNmTittgHNTC-Tu4i-UnJyx4dGphHVxHELON4WN8SfPMsyhVmKncE89x2macg/" style="border-width: 0px;" /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA7NRJZd8-EabHPY6kP1EemCAny3zJoOcwm0MKlLv4AhIN1fadNUrjC2R5pyx_FVGu6lC-ZK_GMcNmTittgHNTC-Tu4i-UnJyx4dGphHVxHELON4WN8SfPMsyhVmKncE89x2macg/" style="border-width: 0px;" /></div>
Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07253244009276715684noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5712084.post-82450620418387530102013-01-01T15:11:00.001+08:002013-01-02T17:23:45.565+08:002012 was the year<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<li>that moved slowly - almost frustratingly stagnant at times - except for a few significant changes that gave the year its splashes of color.</li>
<li>I was least active in my blog; only 16 posts in 2012 (~50% and ~75% drop compared to 2011 and 2010 respectively!) ...<i>a new year resolution to write more perhaps?</i></li>
<li>I shared most of my thoughts through every day pictures and a couple of songs.</li>
<li>of tea appreciation with many "siplicious" moments. With a beautiful teapot-shaped tea strainer and the must-have deep-tea-diver, how can it not be anything but wonderful? <i>*winks</i></li>
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<li>I rocked and rolled to Avril Lavigne's Black Star Tour with Pat & Shuey. My 3rd Avril's concert and yes, I would do it all over again - the 2-3 hours queue, the crowd, and the drenched look at the end. <i>Oh, and next time I'll have a FOC light stick to take with me ..hehe</i></li>
<li>I decided to learn French, passed 3 levels of exam thus far with pretty satisfying marks, and <a href="http://thinkb4aftertot.blogspot.com/2012/11/ma-premiere-entree-de-blog-en-francais.html" style="font-style: italic;" target="_blank">wrote my first blog post in French too</a> ...<i>merci beaucoup!</i></li>
<li>of the full-blown internet shopping that ain't dying out anytime soon.</li>
<li>cafes and restaurants still played an essential part with a few becoming regular haunts - especially a certain aromatic affogato, mouth-watering grilled chicken wings, stir-fried brussels sprouts, chili-baked ladyfingers, and the ultimate "<i>kam heong</i>" crab.</li>
<li>I thought I read too little too few but well, I managed 11 books & comics combined .. not too bad, eh? </li>
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<img border="0" height="136" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWIV-9VTyPqnp-hhql3-uHRykGuw5nwUvtZrchH1Ca874P_bivo2hM5V5jUGBtvVY54mbQjRZnbx7ll2EwSYBhLPoYAJ0ctzOylzfPa8h8-kM9MZvM6ha8HkeVX8YLU07eELPJ7Q/s1600/melb.jpg" style="border-width: 0px; clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" width="200" /></div>
<li>I went back to Melbourne, Victoria after 5 years and discovered it all over again with many new spots added in. I had such an amazing time there it seemed like only yesterday ... I could almost smell the air and feel the cold wind brushing against my cheeks. Though not everything from my initial plan took off ... but I take it to mean that I would be going back again - some day!</li>
<li>I made the big leap to switch from what I'd been doing the past 8 years to an almost entirely different ball game. Though the feedback from the first 90 days have been assuringly positive <i>*phew</i></li>
<li>a family member's health scare truly reminded all of us of how fragile we are and how we should really cherish and make every moment in life count. </li>
<li>I became a first-time aunt to my bro's lil girl, and also to two other very close cousins' baby girls .. wow, I am officially old! <i>lol</i></li>
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<img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0Q3RERhki7-Qdb245uKfYZX3YF_Mkju7-RP8ivXtGE7ourTAyh3cP_kFW4l1q6uK-reFhaZ35IcwMYArXJ8N54kacZXmBEmzKNzXAnE9c7nlO_AupJ3zVP_g0eGD6gO15PXZ13A/s1600/sauce.jpg" style="border-width: 0px; clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" width="200" /></div>
<li>I received a request to review an iPhone game in exchange for a complimentary download (but have not done playing yet, oops) <i>Soon...I promise!</i></li>
<li>TV series and movies continued to dominate my free time. I was there in the Glee breakup episode, The Robin episode (the best HIMYM ep of all!) and of course, the Delena-finally-together-YAY episode of TVD. Yup, I was there through it all...</li>
<li><a href="http://thinkb4aftertot.blogspot.com/2012/12/case-of-missing-santa.html" target="_blank"><i>Rudolph saved Santa</i></a> from the clutches of evil so we could all have a merry, merry Christmas.</li>
<li>I discovered the super <i>oishi </i>deep-roasted sesame salad dressing that is on par with Edo Ichi's, and my salad has never tasted better since!</li>
</ul>
2013 is a year filled with challenges and much to learn. A year that requires a lot of positivity, belief, faith and definitely some hard work. And a year to get that mojo back <span style="font-size: large;">☺</span><br />
So what better day to start than Day 1 of 2013, right? <i>C'est La Vie ~</i>
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<img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPRdOqDPFcPsxcDKa86n7kUz5oRHPHo-CTvV90jfb40g0jEBst5_CgkbPh413ve_H_Dy0pvZhbKKFc3TvegoP_z4MnspOI_h2U9nqEmjc1W0u05B0Wc-q4z92Ng__ScyA3sB-Vuw/s1600/mojo.jpg" style="border-width: 0px; clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" width="244" /></div>
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<span style="color: red;"><b>HaPpY NeW YeAr 2013!</b></span></div>
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<span style="color: red;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
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<img alt="" border="0" height="44" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378627068921071554" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTmW-7hu1sfaT3cjdxoRx0KJ2H-jppN-z4Rke6IzicGQam0WXvQws208bNcVOHGA7va0vG_rVn9OqCtv-7FOWOnprR1y2nNIddWJ5sZjCnfIvkS1NfxTklZRw3rKBLtPkLk38Q7g/s1600/sign_transparent.png" style="border-width: 0px; float: left; height: 54px; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; text-align: justify; width: 120px;" width="188" /></div>
Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07253244009276715684noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5712084.post-13017308167052648202012-12-25T13:23:00.000+08:002012-12-25T13:33:00.361+08:00Case of the Missing Santa<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Here's the full story for the Case of the Missing Santa, in case you have been following ;)</div>
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<a href="http://sphotos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/68665_10151165192768240_45407382_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="border-width: 0px; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: black;"><br /></span><img border="0" height="320" src="http://sphotos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/68665_10151165192768240_45407382_n.jpg" style="border-width: 0px; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" width="238" /></a></div>
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<i><span style="text-align: left;">Dec 10th: The case file was opened when Santa was seen tied up on top of a log cake with a masked ninja standing in guard.</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="text-align: left;">The search for missing Santa soon began...no one could imagine a bleak Xmas with no Santa.</span></i></div>
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<a href="http://sphotos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/67775_10151168611193240_591237941_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="border-width: 0px; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://sphotos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/67775_10151168611193240_591237941_n.jpg" style="border-width: 0px; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" width="216" /></a></div>
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<i>All agents were out and about.</i></div>
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<i>Dec 12th: Agent Penguin was spotted outside the Notre Dame, was Santa kidnapped in Paris??</i></div>
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<a href="http://sphotos-b.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/167462_10151178525653240_2138552180_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="border-width: 0px; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://sphotos-b.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/167462_10151178525653240_2138552180_n.jpg" style="border-width: 0px; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" width="400" /></a></div>
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<i>Dec 19th: No mountains unclimbed, no stones unturned, no </i>TEA <i>undived in the quest to find Santa..</i></div>
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<a href="http://sphotos-f.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/547610_10151186086208240_2088943188_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="border-width: 0px; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://sphotos-f.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/547610_10151186086208240_2088943188_n.jpg" style="border-width: 0px; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" width="400" /></a></div>
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<i>Dec 24th: And in the final hours before the clock struck 12am, Rudolph beat the enemies in time to rescue Santa...and all was well again!</i></div>
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<i>Dec 25th: Rudolph gets the day off </i>*winks<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFAEL_qho6XE18k01XNi59rUFyi0qSnIjxo2NcStIXQhrgS7zTl9JHVZKigpAzTbREM9n-IizJbMl4hY2_XsqGRCFsqan-k0ifyc-iXYpev6LsNqWHD_50P8RlzphRYGSYcZgZWQ/s1600/IMG_2863.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="border-width: 0px; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="305" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFAEL_qho6XE18k01XNi59rUFyi0qSnIjxo2NcStIXQhrgS7zTl9JHVZKigpAzTbREM9n-IizJbMl4hY2_XsqGRCFsqan-k0ifyc-iXYpev6LsNqWHD_50P8RlzphRYGSYcZgZWQ/s400/IMG_2863.JPG" style="border-width: 0px; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="color: purple;">Have a Happy Rein-laxing Christmas!!</span></b> <span style="color: purple;">☺</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<img alt="" border="0" height="44" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378627068921071554" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTmW-7hu1sfaT3cjdxoRx0KJ2H-jppN-z4Rke6IzicGQam0WXvQws208bNcVOHGA7va0vG_rVn9OqCtv-7FOWOnprR1y2nNIddWJ5sZjCnfIvkS1NfxTklZRw3rKBLtPkLk38Q7g/s1600/sign_transparent.png" style="border-width: 0px; float: left; height: 54px; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; text-align: justify; width: 120px;" width="188" /></div>
Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07253244009276715684noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5712084.post-29075870451309088772012-12-15T17:26:00.002+08:002012-12-25T13:21:10.403+08:00I Knew You Were Trouble<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/Zdi9HeBr9ew" width="560"></iframe>
</div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i>I think.. I think when it's all over, it just comes back in flashes, you know?
It's like a kaleidoscope of memories and it just all comes back. But he never does.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>I think part of me knew the second I saw him that this would happen. It's not really anything he said, or anything he did. It was the feeling that came along with it. And.. crazy thing is, I don't know if I'm ever gonna feel that way again. But I don't know if I should.
</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>I knew his world moved too fast and burned too bright. But I just thought, how can the devil be pulling you towards someone who looks.. so much like an angel when he smiles at you? Maybe he knew that, when he saw me.
<br /><br />
I guess I just lost my balance. I think that the worst part of it all wasn't losing him. <b>It was losing me.</b>
<br /><br />
I don't know if you know who you are until you lose who you are</i><span style="font-style: normal;">.</span><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: right;">
<i><i><i><i>- <b>Taylor Swift, I Knew You Were Trouble</b></i></i></i></i></div>
<i>
<i>
</i></i></blockquote>
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Very Lana Del Ray-ish but more pop, less edge. Still, good song and good MV.<br />
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<embed autostart="false" height="50" loop="false" playcount="1" src="http://www.opendrive.com/files/64351074_XJXOH/Taylor%20Swift%20-%20I%20Knew%20You%20Were%20Trouble%20-%20Lyric%20Video%20HD.mp3" type="audio/mpeg" width="200"></embed>
</div>
Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07253244009276715684noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5712084.post-92039597188944550742012-11-22T23:46:00.000+08:002012-11-22T23:52:55.981+08:00Ma premiere entree de blog en francais (My first blog entry in French)<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBeynT_dnpqy7EOpzvuejYg61XNARly9uOY4Xr4i7rKhOrjx5OcEOMI7H4r-H_O9EzIeMMuG3wCrYAWFskmCwsB5qbF2qgmYRYHsQpht3h4qw5Um5ppeO7HLOR_c9CJGW1ezU45Q/s1600/NeverStopDreaming.JPG" style="border-width: 0px; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" width="480" /></div>
<br />
C'est ma première entrée de blog en français. Avec un peu d'aide de Google bien sûr...<br />
<br />
La sensation est le même que le succès écrit le "<i>Hello World</i>" programme avec une langue nouvellement apprise programmation.<br />
<br />
Si vous m'aviez dit il ya huit mois que je vais écrire en français aujourd'hui, j'ai très certainement ne sera pas parier là-dessus. Personnellement, je pense que je suis encore un débutant et j'ai encore beaucoup à apprendre. Aussi, si tant est que je peux passer mon niveau A1.3 examen en Décembre!<br />
<br />
Ne jamais arrêter de rêver <span style="font-size: large;">☺</span><br />
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<img alt="" border="0" height="44" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378627068921071554" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTmW-7hu1sfaT3cjdxoRx0KJ2H-jppN-z4Rke6IzicGQam0WXvQws208bNcVOHGA7va0vG_rVn9OqCtv-7FOWOnprR1y2nNIddWJ5sZjCnfIvkS1NfxTklZRw3rKBLtPkLk38Q7g/s1600/sign_transparent.png" style="border-width: 0px; float: left; height: 54px; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; text-align: justify; width: 120px;" width="188" /><br />
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-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />
<br />
[In English]<br />
<br />
<i>This is my first blog entry in French. With a little bit of help from Google of course..</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>The feeling is similar to successfully writing the "Hello World" program with a newly learnt programming language.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>If you had told me eight months ago that I will write in French today, I most definitely will not bet on it. Personally, I think that I am still a beginner and I have much more to learn. Also, that is if I can pass my level A1.3 exam in December!</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>Never stop dreaming </i><span style="font-size: large;">☺</span><br />
<br /></div>
<img alt="" border="0" height="44" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378627068921071554" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTmW-7hu1sfaT3cjdxoRx0KJ2H-jppN-z4Rke6IzicGQam0WXvQws208bNcVOHGA7va0vG_rVn9OqCtv-7FOWOnprR1y2nNIddWJ5sZjCnfIvkS1NfxTklZRw3rKBLtPkLk38Q7g/s1600/sign_transparent.png" style="border-width: 0px; float: left; height: 54px; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; text-align: justify; width: 120px;" width="188" /></div>
Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07253244009276715684noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5712084.post-56274714778401809632012-11-15T21:33:00.000+08:002012-11-22T23:51:43.715+08:00Freedom<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="http://www.myspace.com/whats-hot/2012/10/12/lana-del-rey-releases-ten-minute-long-video-for-ride" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="308" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHVdPy1uUkdtT0b3j4udvluNOq2jf_Yv2ZbNnlMDUWnl5xCiteUViMoCIq1j4Yh7_3yehzz2cATOfVWgm8IwCn7qrkP6a6_jto538OhZ_rLEdY41ngaJ8f-Hz2CIC1dJhlmSMjAg/s1600/DbtEN.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
I was in the winter of my life- and the men I met along the road were my only summer. At night I fell asleep with visions of myself dancing and laughing and crying with them. Three years down the line of being on an endless world tour and my memories of them were the only things that sustained me, and my only real happy times. I was a singer, not a very popular one, who once had dreams of being a beautiful poet- but upon an unfortunate series of events saw those dreams dashed and divided like a million stars in the night sky that I wished on over and over again- sparkling and broken. But I didn't really mind because I knew that it takes getting everything you ever wanted and then losing it to know what true freedom is.
<br />
<br />
When the people I used to know found out what I had been doing, how I had been living- they asked me why. But there's no use in talking to people who have a home, they have no idea what its like to seek safety in other people, for home to be wherever you lie your head.
<br />
<br />
I was always an unusual girl, my mother told me I had a chameleon soul. No moral compass pointing due north, no fixed personality. Just an inner indecisiveness that was as wide and as wavering as the ocean. And if I said that I didn't plan for it to turn out this way I'd be lying - because I was born to be the other woman. I belonged to no one- who belonged to everyone, who had nothing- who wanted everything with a fire for every experience and an obsession for freedom that terrified me to the point that I couldn't even talk about- and pushed me to a nomadic point of madness that both dazzled and dizzied me.
<br />
<br />
Every night I used to pray that I'd find my people- and finally I did- on the open road. We had nothing to lose, nothing to gain, nothing we desired anymore except to make our lives into a work of art
<br />
<br />
<b>LIVE FAST. DIE YOUNG. BE WILD. AND HAVE FUN.
</b><br />
<br />
I believe in the country America used to be. I believe in the person I want to become, I believe in the freedom of the open road. And my motto is the same as ever-<br />
*I believe in the kindness of strangers. And when I'm at war with myself- I Ride. I Just Ride.*
<br />
<br />
Who are you? Are you in touch with all of your darkest fantasies? <br />
Have you created a life for yourself where you're free to experience them?<br />
I Have.<br />
I AM F***ing Crazy. But I Am Free.<br />
<div style="text-align: right;">
<i>- Lana Del Rey
</i></div>
</blockquote>
<embed autostart="false" height="50" loop="false" playcount="1" src="https://www.opendrive.com/files/63349778_D1maH/Lana%20Del%20Rey%20-%20Ride%20(Acoustic).mp3" type="audio/mpeg" width="200"></embed>
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Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07253244009276715684noreply@blogger.com0