arystle's scribbles

Goodbye

2012-01-26T23:31:00.001+08:00

"Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, love leaves a memory no one can steal."
RIP. ❤ you always.

You'll be fine - Just Breathe

2011-12-11T22:23:00.001+08:00

Right now it feels like
I forgot to turn the light on
And things that looked so good yesterday
Are now shades of gray

And it seems like the world is spinning
While I'm standing still
Or maybe I am spinning
I can't tell
And then you say...

Hey
You're okay
You'll be fine
Just breathe

And now the women sing:
Hey
You're okay
You'll be fine
Just breathe

Now everybody sings:
Hey
You're okay
You'll be fine
Just breathe

Hey
You're okay
You'll be fine
Just breathe

Hey
You're okay
You'll be fine (you'll be fine)
Just breathe

Chillout - ZeFrank

Café Barbera, Sunway Pyramid

2011-12-09T02:15:00.001+08:00

Café Barbera - the outlet that sits proudly at the corner lot of the Sunway Pyramid Shopping Centre emanates a mixed ambiance of confidence, relaxation and warmth. As waiters go about placing dishes on tables, passers-by peer in to a world of dark wood and soft lighting. They are somewhat eager to step in and somewhat hesitant to do so due to the classy interior design which instantly spells out as ‘another expensive dining place’. But fret not, for although with more than 140 years of coffee perfection, Café Barbera is unlike any other present and upcoming cafés.

Originated from a family owned business from the South of Italy, Café Barbera’s concept is largely based on the current food trend and consumer demands for a fresher, lighter and healthier menu. One will definitely need a few extra minutes or so to digest the menu - page after page that offers a variety of food items, handmade shakes, fresh juices, desserts and ah, coffee! Someone once said, “A cup of coffee shared with a friend is happiness tasted and time well spent.” True enough and thanks to both Shannon and Cafe Barbera, a bunch of us bloggers experienced exactly that during our recent review of this café.

The friendly ambiance

This café has a lot of Italian dishes to offer that we were fed for roughly a whole good two hours with the best-selling food and beverages. We started off with a preferred beverage of our choice. I ordered the Cappuccino Shakerato, one of the its best-selling beverages and I have to admit that it was the best of the lot. I drank two glasses in total. However, being a caffeine-addict, this drink should be made stronger as the slight tinge of sweetness overpowered the coffee taste in it.

Cappuccino Shakerato - RM11

Espresso Shakerato - RM10, Double Toasted Latte - RM11, Roma - RM12 (L-R)

Cappuccino Fredo

After the many rounds of coffee tasting, we waited eagerly for the food to be served. From the butter croissant to the rolled smoked duck salad, the food was all gone in mere minutes! The dishes were served with the right amount of garnishing, neither too forceful nor overpromising. I enjoyed the distinctive taste of the multigrain croissant when married together with the side coffee dip. Seriously, other bloggers present for this review would shamelessly agree that we all gladly shifted into our barbaric mode that fine afternoon at Café Barbera!

Multigrain Croissant - RM7, Butter Croissant - RM8, Rolled Smoked Duck Salad - RM20

Spinach & Cheese Spring Roll - RM14

Smoked Salmon Bruschetta - RM19

Mushroom & Pumpkin Soup - RM13 per bowl

Be sure to leave some space in that distended stomach of yours for the pizzas. We were given a brief demonstration on how the pizzas were made. The toppings were generously slathered across each slice for that rich bite. Topped with tomato sauce, pesto with mushroom, onion, black olive, garlic oil, parmesan and mozzarella cheese, the Pesto, Cheese and Mushroom Pizza tasted much better than the Hawaiian Chicken Pizza because The chicken meat was too dry and the chunky pineapple pieces stripped away the mozzarella cheese taste in whole.

Pizza in the making!

Pesto, Cheese and Mushroom Pizza - RM26.00

Hawaiian Chicken Pizza - RM26

Salmon Aglio Olio - RM29

Prawn Aglio Olio - RM29

Beef Carbonara - RM26

Chicken Lasagna RM25.00

Braised Lamb Shank - RM39

Grilled Tenderloin - RM49

Stuffed Chicken Parcel - RM33

Designed to tantalize the palate in unbearably mouth-watering ways, the definite plus point of Café Barbera for me would have to be its unique choice of desserts offered. Dip your fork into the centre of the Chocolate Fondant – a specially made molten chocolate pudding served with a scoop of vanilla ice-cream and watch the chocolate liquid flow out of its core! Simply delicious, this is just perfect to end a sunny afternoon. If you’re not a fan of chocolate, an alternative for you would be the Pear Crumble.

Chocolate Fondant - RM14

Pear Crumble - RM 14

Tiramisu - RM12

Café Barbera takes pleasure in introducing their opening promotion deals at theSunway Pyramid outlet:

9am - 12noon and 3pm - 6pm = Drink all you Can RM 15 on allCoffee!

12noon - 3pm and 6pm - 9pm = RM 15 on hand made Italian PIZZA!

New DailyBreakfast Lite @ RM9+ with freshly bakedpastry & a cup of Barbera's coffee, ORADD RM2 for additional freshly bakedpastry with any drinks purchased!

Together with Marcus, Chris, Dilla & Lionel

Group Shot

Visit Café Barbera todayfor a coffeelicious experience!

Cafe Barbera

OB2-C7-42, Oasis, BoulevardTwo,

Sunway Pyramid, BandarSunway, Selangor. Malaysia

Tel: +6 03 5622186

Website:www.caffebarbera.com

Twitter: @BarberaCoffeeMY

Facebook: Café Barbera

*Other Café Barbera outlets are located at Bangsar Park andKLIA, Sepang.

11.11.11 - Starbucks Card Grand Launch Party

2011-11-17T22:44:00.001+08:00

Starbucks fans unite! The Starbucks card is finally here in Malaysia! After the much long wait for this card, Starbucks had an exclusive party to commemorate the launch of this card. Thanks Poi Lim for the invitation! The queue was already alike a long snake although the party only begin at 7pm. This was because the first 100 in line will receive a FREE Starbucks card with RM20 preloaded in it. With the green man standing stationary for a good 15minutes or so, this created even more publicity towards the FREE Starbucks card. Ah, that explains the long queue isn’t it?

Starbucks Card Launch invitation

Starbucks Card Grand Launch Party @ The Curve


Starbucks Greenman

The party started with the emcee welcoming the guests, followed by various performances to keep the guests entertained. Besides the hip-hop dancers, fire-show performance, jazz piece or being serenaded by Didi from Malaysian Idol Season 1, there were also several lucky draw sessions conducted specially for the invited guests/customers. With the various free snacks and foods provided, we were indeed spoilt for choice - complemented with iced coffee and tea. What a treat before dinnertime I must say! But alas, I somewhat felt that the event team weren’t prepared for the amount of crowd due, hence the Starbucks store was packed like sardines and everyone was just trying their best to move about. I even had some cake stains on my jeans! It was a madhouse in there and very disorganized, so much so that my friend and I didn’t bother stepping in to the store for the food and drinks again.

Saxophone performance on stage

Starbucks team, during the lucky draw session

Free food & drinks - indeed spoilt for choice

I love the stage backdrop that was constructed. Simple yet with a hint of sophistication! Entire party wasn’t elaborated but still had the Christmastime experience instilled in it. Starbucks even hired a graffiti artist to show off his arty skills – now that’s creative!

Starbucks stage backdrop

With Aurora!

Graffiti artist at work

Now, here’s why the Starbucks card is much talked about and sought after! With many exclusive benefits lined up for Starbucks card holders, one can be sure to enjoy greater convenience and comfort with this stored value card cum loyalty card! Think of it as a ‘prepaid card’ whereby with every purchase made at Starbucks store in Malaysia, the value inside your card decreases. Simple as that! With just one quick swipe, you can use it to purchase anything from your favorite beverage (hot/cold) to whole bean coffees or to the latest range of tumblers/coffee press or Starbucks Bearista! Just purchase the card at RM20 and enjoy the card with your RM20 preloaded in it! And quick go grab the two limited edition Starbucks Christmas Card design before it runs out!

The Starbucks Card is finally here!

Three card designs to choose from!

Reap more rewards with every purchase made! Start enjoying these benefits from this card:

A complimentary grande handcrafted beverage of your choice on us when you've purchased: ANY 10 handcrafted beverages, ANY tumbler, or ANY whole cake.

A complimentary 250g whole bean coffee or a 12-pack VIA® Ready Brew when you've purchased 8 packets of 250g whole bean coffee or 12-pack VIA® Ready Brew.

A complimentary grande handcrafted beverage of your choice and a complimentary slice of cake with any beverage purchased on your birth month

Find out more at Starbucks Malaysia – Starbucks Card or through their Facebook page or follow Starbucks Malaysia on Twitter for the latest updates! It’s time to start brewing joy and good times at Starbucks again! Go forth and make that Starbucks experience one to remember and cherish for all the years to come – with lively deep conversations, happy thoughts and inspiring music!

The Starbucks card = The perfect way to treat your family, a friend or just yourself!

Missing London City!

2011-09-08T14:58:00.000+08:00

Shrouded in mystery, steeped in history and nestled within a temperate atmosphere, London is without a doubt beautiful and exciting. With so much to discover and explore, a month alone in London will not be sufficient for one who is deeply engrossed in arts, culture and history.

Exploring London with only a map, mobile and camera in my hands was once again, tiring and confusing. Firstly, with the countless of food reviews available online and in the Lonely Planet guidebook, being spoiled for choice at times isn't a luxury after all. It was effing difficult to make a decision on where to go and what to eat, what to see and what to do. After all, gawd knows when I'll be back to this soon-to-be Olympic city.

London is blessed and really lucky to be a city that can proudly boast on its rich architecture and renowned buildings, scattered strategically all over. Too little can be seen in just three days of sight-seeing when one has to make time for shopping as well. Home to Topshop, Miss Selfridge, Dorothy Perkins and Primark, I could spend hours after hours in there. I miss the famous Harrods and Niketown, and you can imagine the amount of time left to sight-see and be amazed by the British Museum and various art galleries!

Nonetheless, London is full of life. The hustle and bustle of this city is one common description used by many to speak highly about this city. I am missing London oh so very much!

Really lucky to catch a rainbow over Tower Bridge!

Watching the sun go down at Tower Bridge, over River Thames


The iconic London Eye

Luv this shot! :)

Get Behind Your Team – Liverpool Football Club & Standard Chartered

2011-07-07T11:07:00.000+08:00

Heart pumping, mind focused, body restless, soul enriched…………… all Liverpool Fans Unite!!

It is merely nine days away for us to celebrate the arrival of our beloved Liverpool Football Club into our very own soil. A huge thank you we must say to Standard Chartered, the biggest bank in Asia for being the very proud sponsors of LFC! I was beaming with exceeding joy when I found out about the tour and for the very fact that Standard Chartered has arranged the tour for us Malaysians to relish in!

Liverpool will be playing against our very own Harimau Malaya team on the 16^th of July, Saturday at exactly 5.45pm in Bukit Jalil Stadium, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. To raise awareness of both this relationship and sponsorship ties, Standard Chartered invites you to proclaim your undying support to the ever-steady Liverpool Football Club by leaving a good luck message on a fresh, new application which is built inside the LFC tour website. What a brilliant way to welcome LFC into Malaysia! :)

It is really simple to leave your message – be it a welcome greeting, an inspiring shoutout or a good luck wish for your favourite player! Just create your very own avatar and you might be able to see your avatar proudly holding up your message in the stadium, on the day of the match. Come join in the excitement and leave your personalized message by following these simple steps:

STEP ONE

Visit this website

STEP TWO

Click on the “MAKE YOUR AVATAR!!” tab on the top right hand corner of the website.

STEP THREE

Fill in your special message (within 140 characters) and create your own avatar.

STEP FOUR

Fill in your personal details and click ‘SUBMIT’ to be in the running to win 2 match passes!

STEP FIVE

Share and spread your message on Facebook, Twitter or via e-mail to your family and friends. Get them to ‘like’ your message and increase your chance to watch LFC live and kicking in action!

All you need is to complete the above 5 simple steps and you could win two tickets to watch the match as well as the chance to meet a player from the team! Try climbing up the leaderboard as the winner will be picked from the top favourite messages. Go get behind your team with Standard Chartered to give Liverpool and yourself an Asian tour to remember and a lifelong experience to treasure!

While we get ready to put on our favourite jerseys and paint out face red, this cheer for Liverpool will not be possible without Standard Chartered. Thank you Standard Chartered for organizing this up close meeting with the team and for us fans to watch them in action and not just through the television screen.

Liverpool was made for me and I was made for Liverpool! Really can’t wait to see the team and especially, Reina in action! So hurry up and shoutout your message and I’ll see you there at the stadium! Lastly, with LFC, you’ll never walk alone!

LFC FTW!

Start following LFC and Standard Chartered at twitter today for all the latest happenings and updates!

06.08.2011

2011-06-08T23:46:00.000+08:00

Hospitalized

2011-06-03T18:36:00.000+08:00

Being hospitalized has both its pros and cons. First you get to take a break from your hectic job and second, you can rest as much as you really want to. The cons would of course be the painful needles and yucky medicine the doctor require you to consume. Alas here I am, blogging from the hospital bed, all peace and quiet, and by myself now. Thank you to all of you who made the effort to come pay me a visit and for the lovely cheerios you brought together with you - be it a smiley piece of cake, yellow flowers, non-hospital food, Starbucks, Brands essence of chicken, etc. All this certainly made me feel a whole lot better. Here's to the road towards a speedy recovery! :)

Smiley cake to brighten my day!

Yellow flowers I luv.

Painful shots twice a day! :(

Time is said to heal all wounds

2011-04-21T23:25:00.000+08:00

I don't mind your odd behavior
It's the very thing I love
If you were an ice cream flavor
You would be my favorite one

My imagination sees you
Like a painting by Van Gogh
Starry nights and bright sunflowers
Follow you where you may go

Oh, I've loved you from the start
In every single way
And more each passing day
You are brighter than the stars

Believe me when I say
It's not about your scars
It's all about your heart

You're a butterfly held captive
Small and safe in your cocoon
Go on you can take your time
Time is said to heal all wounds

Like a lock without a key
Like a mystery without a clue
There is no me if I cannot have you

Yes 4G Penang Road Trip!

2011-03-26T19:26:00.005+08:00

Internet: absolute communication, absolute isolation.

-Paul Carvel-

Time has spoken much about the expansion and growth of the Internet. Thousands of applications are being developed at an escalating rate that even humankind has to stop once awhile to catch their breath. And yet again and again, we as consumers are baffled by the different plans and offerings various communication companies are trying to offer. What exactly are they trying to sell? Even better yet, what exactly do we, as consumers want? What exactly are we looking for? A no-frills internet access 24/7 with consistent connectivity and high speed of course! Alas, nothing really beats the fact that a company out there listens and who then, carefully craft their devices and offerings to cater to their targeted audience needs. Allow me to illustrate how true convergence has arrived and how YTL Communications combined all four speed, coverage, value and friendship into one fantastic package.

A bunch of us bloggers were invited to join the Yes 4G team on a road trip aka food hunt to Penang. The main objective of this road trip was to invite us to experience their YES network as we travel from Kuala Lumpur to Penang via the North-South Highway, besides making stopovers to sample the local delicacies. We gathered early in the morning at Ritz-Carlton Kuala Lumpur (one hotel I look up to for their customer service!) and fed out stomachs with the light breakfast that were served.

At The Ritz-Carlton, Kuala Lumpur

Gathering together early in the morning

Excited us!

We were later briefed by Tan Sri Francis Yeoh, Managing Director of YTL Communications and by Wing K. Lee, CEO of YTL Communications. Both men exuded great poise and needed only very little effort to catch our attention during their presentation on the story behind Yes 4G. Here’s a summary of the entire story:

· YTL Communications understood the open ecosystem – the Malaysian market

· The core acid test of mobile networks: mobile video conferencing (think FaceTime)

· FaceTime was used as an example to illustrate the importance of a reliable network

· Yes 4G has the ability to fulfil the FaceTime dream

· The inevitable shift is happening; from mobile phones to mobile internet

· YTL Communications will be launching the next-generation smartphones that will run on the
Android platform (slated for launch in June 2011)

· YTL’s dream: Mobility of the Internet

Tan Sri Francis Yeoh

Wing K. Lee

The Gadget

We were each given a Yes 4G Huddle, a Wi-Fi hotspot and a portable modem to accompany us from Kuala Lumpur to Penang. Weighing at only 100g, this handy 2-in-1 device fits perfectly in the palm of your hand and is very convenient especially if you are one who travels often, if you’re always on-the-go and just like in our situation now – if you’re going on a road trip with family or friends! With the ability to support any Wi-Fi enabled device, the Huddle requires no installation and sticks to the easy plug & play method!

Designed with a sleek and clean look and feel, we were each blessed with a RM150 worth of Yes credit and we were able to freely use the Huddle without having to worry about the additional charge that we’ll have to bear. The superb ability of the Huddle is for the fact that it is able to support up to 4 (maximum 5) Wi-Fi devices! The Yes service is currently priced with the affordable Yes valuepacks at RM68 (3.5GB) and RM150 (10GB) with no throttling thereafter. Find out more about the plans here.

The Road Trip

We hit the roads in 4 Toyota Alphards and a Yes Sprinter (a giant blue van-like vehicle that holds the additional devices and power sockets for us to charge our phones, laptops, etc.) The Yes 4G speed was consistent on the highway with the speed of 2/3MB upload and download most of the time. The only downside is that the connection was lost when we drove through trunk roads and along the palm oil plantation. Perhaps Yes comms should build more towers around those rural town areas to cater to another audience as well? With a battery life of up to 3-4 hours, the Huddle served us fairly good enough until we reached out first stop for food!

The Toyota Alphard and Yes Sprinter

Many of us were not used to using our devices for more than an hour non-stop and were feeling nauseous whilst our head spun with discomfort. Few of us even felt like throwing up (especially those riding the Sprinter) from the car-sick effect. But that’s the surprising situation we often find ourselves in – we just can’t get enough of tweeting, facebooking, googling, checking-in (foursquare), whatsapping, bbm-ing, twitpix-ing, emailing, sms-ing, mms-ing, you name it. The need to be in touch with the rest of the people in our lives are way too important to be dismissed, hence the constant updates every now and then – this is when the Huddle can come in handy – connect through Wi-Fi minus the extra data charges!

Our first stop was to Restaurant Bidor Curry House. Located by the corner of Jalan Besar, Bidor, this small town restaurant was certainly not prepared for a large crowd, stopping by for brunch! The service was slow and inefficient, and I’ve to admit that KL has far way better banana leaf rice than here. But perhaps, this was the ‘best’ place for banana leaf rice in Bidor – will have to confirm with the Bidor folks on this. The funny part here was that several of the Yes 4G team walked to a nearby restaurant to pack the famous Bidor duck noodles. The restaurant owners were kind enough to provide us with bowls and cutleries to enjoy the duck noodles. Some of us ate it the dry-style and some enjoyed it the soupy-style. Which is in fact the ‘right’ way to eat it? Haha!

1st stop for lunch

Banana leaf rice

Duck noodle

With Karen, Mei and Averell

Restaurant Bidor Curry House

No. 3848, Jln Besar,
35500 Bidor,
Perak

Tel: 05-434 9048

Halal

After stuffing ourselves with the variety of meat and vegetables, we continued our journey up North, each taking our respective turns to ride in the Yes Sprinter. The steady Yes 4G connection enabled us to conduct several speedtest along the highway and the results were repeatedly impressive! :) Alas, the inevitable blind spots are those along the trunk roads and when driving pass the inner smaller towns. Before we knew it, we have reached the famous Ipoh town – be it for the yummylicious food, heritage or pomelo fruits, Ipoh have long been hailed as the ‘delicious food town’. We arrived, intending to eat the chicken rice but soon found out that the restaurant was already closed. We then headed to pack the famous salted chicken at Aun Kheng Lim. Luck was also on our side as we managed to taste the soft tau fu fah and soya bean drink by Funny Mountain – a family owned business.

The famous Ipoh salted chicken

Nicely wrapped and baked

Us together with the packed salted chicken

Stop here for soft tau fu fah and soya bean drink

Enjoy anytime, anywhere. :)

Aun Kheng Lim

24, Jalan Theatre,
30300, Ipoh

Perak
Tel: 05-2542998

Funny Mountain

49, Jalan Theatre, Ipoh
30300, Ipoh

Perak
Tel: 012-5161607

Right after savouring the tau fu fah and soya bean drink, Mei, Kelly, Yoga and myself hopped into the Yes Sprinter. Oh boy! This was an ultimate test for us as we tried to remain seated in the right manner throughout the journey from Ipoh to Penang. We were not sure if it was the driver, the roads or the ergonomic fault of the seats in the Yes Sprinter but we sure felt like throwing up! It was a roller-coaster ride in the Yes Sprinter and we just had to basically park ourselves on the seat and to not meddle with any other thing. Inside the sprinter, the Yes 4G tech guy, Averell gave us a rough intro of Yes Life and both Mei and I tried calling our friends directly from that service. It was raining cats and dogs outside, hence the line wasn’t clear and although we could hear our friends from the other end, they were not able to hear us at all. Can’t fully blame the weather on this one – perhaps it was due to the coverage as well?

The Yes Sprinter!


Inside the sprinter with Mei, Kelly & Yogaretnam

Made a last stop at a rest area, before entering Penang

The Stay

And finally!!! We arrived in Penang all safe and sound, although some of us were woozy from playing with our various gadgets inside the designated vehicles. We made a quick stop at Queensbay Mall to meet Wing K. Lee, CEO of YTL Communications and have a look at the Yes 4G roadshow too. After some photo session moments and when we were done checking out the roadshow, we were taken to the hotel that we’ll be putting up a night in. Vistana Hotel, also part of the YTL Hotels is equipped with 238-rooms and strategically located close to Penang's Bayan Lepas Free Industrial Zone and the Penang International Airport. The rooms were really neat and clean, but alas the toiletries part can be improved. Lol.

Us at the Yes 4G roadshow

Vistana Hotel @ Penang

Vistana Hotel Penang

213 Jalan Bukit Gambir
11950, Bukit Jambul
Penang, Malaysia
Tel: +604 646 8000
Fax: +604 646 1400

Upon arrival, we were each given the key cards to our respective rooms and were given about 15 minutes to freshen up before gathering again for dinnertime. Dinner was one word – FUN. The food was just so-so (except for the nestum prawns) and the service can be improved as well. The waiter/waitresses were just not attentive enough and we had to even ask them to change our plates, refill our drinks, etc. Bummer! Yea. Nonetheless Wing K. Lee was there for a short PC with the respective Penang media. He soon bade us farewell with his team and we were left to enjoy the rest of our stay in Penang. Nothing is complete without savouring the famous Penang food and of course, being typical Malaysians as well – we headed out to Gurney Drive for supper after our dinner!!

With Ee Ping, Kelly & Jason - laughing over the prawns joke!

With Joehan & Mei

At the dinner table

At breakfast on Sunday morning

To encapsulate it all, this road trip wasn’t about the delicious food, the Yes 4G connection speed and stability nor was it merely about having our weekend occupied. What lies deeper is the very fact that new friendships were found and connections between that were strengthen. We often relate social media by the fact that one has to go online and interact. To me, it is about the act of ‘coming out’ of that social media sphere and into the ‘real’ world to communicate, mingle and connect – for this is where our true personality is revealed and where we individually express our own inner sentiments (and not hidden behind that avatar or twitter handle or image, for actions/expressions speak louder than words/images). Thank you Yes 4G for giving us all an opportunity to come together, blend and form this friendship we now each hold so dear to our hearts. Amazing things sure does happen when you say yes!

"We all take different paths in life, but no matter where we go, we take a little of each other everywhere."

- Tim McGraw

*Several pictures above are courtesy of Ee Ping & Vernon Chan.

Life

2011-03-24T11:39:00.000+08:00

MAS Traveller Party 2011

2011-03-08T18:50:00.000+08:00

Malaysia Airlines continue to soar as the leader in the social media sphere, with the launch of MHbuddy on Facebook! The application developed by both MAS and SITA lab can be accessed from the Malaysia Airlines Facebook page. MHbuddy enable the users to book flights, check-in for a flight , select their seat and also serve as a hub for them to share their trip details with their friends. As the first airline that allow customers to check-in to their flight via Facebook, MAS is surely taking the flight booking concept to yet another level.Wit h MHbuddy, customers who book a flight are reminded of their friends who live at the destination they are headed to. They are also prompted if any of their friends within the Facebook network are planning on travelling to the same destination.

It was the much awaited party for many of us bloggers, and even more so because it was organized by Malaysia Airlines! The party was held at Neo Tamarind, Kuala Lumpur, whereby the party organizers had creatively decorated the place to create that 'travel-like' atmosphere. Besides the mosquitoes that arrived later that night, the entire party was a blast with entertainment of the haka dance, belly-dancing, caricature drawing as well as a variety of food.

The decor @ Neo Tamarind

Interesting backdrop for those photo session moment

With Josh, Jason, Ewin & Naomi ! *Image by @smashpop


Us together with out caricature drawings. *Image by @smashpop

Together with Thomas & Naomi

Jason with the girls.

Met Elvina there too!

Where the head fits..... :) *Image by @smashpop

Am a roman warrior! Beware! :P

Sydney Opera House

Tower Bridge, London

Bloggers Unite! :) *Image by @smashpop

Malaysia Airlines continues to live up to its tagline of 'Malaysian Hospitality'. It was a night of fun, friendship and togetherness. The food could have been better, alas this is normal when there's a large crowd to serve. Log on now to the MAS Traveller site to live your travel dream!

Save a Life

2011-02-22T09:49:00.000+08:00

All you blood donors, there'll be a blood donation drive tomorrow at Bangunan Malaysian RE, Lorong Dungun. Held from 9am to 4pm, there will even be a mystery gift for the first 200 donors! Do come and spare some time to save a life - you'll never know the impact your blood can have on another person. :)

Aron Lee Ralston - An Amazing Inspiration

2011-02-19T18:31:00.003+08:00

It was a moment of desperation, of fear, of courage and of hope. Aron Lee Ralston - a name or face we may have not known 8 years ago, but remembered today as a hero to many. I was not aware of this tragedy which struck him in 2003 but the sudden interest grew immensely after watching the trailer of 127 Hours.

A must-watch: 127 Hours

Affecting me even till now, the movie relates so precisely about Aron, a professional mountain climber and canyoneer. Being that avid adrenaline seeker that he is, he set out one springday to Bluejohn Canyon in Utah. Little did he know but he became trapped by a boulder during his adventure and was stuck there for 5 days. He was short on food and water supply and the biggest mistake he made was to not inform anyone on his whereabouts. Stuck in that surreal environment, Aron was trapped deep inside and was more than 30miles away from the nearest paved road. Even his screams and cries cannot be heard in the silent night.

The next few days were a test for him - one that he didn't bargain for. He was in the depths of despair - he was already prepared to die there, having carved his name unto the canyon walls, all alone and with no hope. His near death experience became a rebirth for Aron and an inspiration and quick flashback to so many. He braved himself and stood up with the courage to live to see tomorrow. He succumbed to his last resort - to cut off his own right arm. Aron amputated his arm with only a dull pocketknife to free himself. From cutting through his skin to hacking through the muscle or breaking his bones and tendon, Aron succeeded in that impossible task. He described that act as " it felt like shoving your entire arm in molten lava".

An astonishing story - too emotional for me, and what else more for Aron. I see him as a man who strive to live to see tomorrow and when left in an isolated life-threatening situation, we will be bound to then resort into doing something impossible. To do something we could never possibly imagine. From panic to despair to hope, Aron lived to tell his incredible tale. His story somewhat changed my outlook in life - to never underestimate myself or others and to stay strong, even in that darkest moment. I have an undying respect for Aron and look up to him for his bravery, courage and optimism to keep pressing on.

Aron Lee Ralston - A true inspiration

127 Hours is not just a film - it's an experience. While it pains me to see that the film isn't exactly up to my expectation - it is still a remarkable movie - centered around a legendary performance. It is an authentic emotional experience and just simply, unforgettable. I urge you to watch this film - the uncensored version of course. Even more so, I urge you to watch Aron relating his daunting experience (videos can be found on youtube) to truly appreciate and celebrate the true hero that he really is. Aron Lee Ralston FTW! :)

"Don't just seize the day, but truly appreciate it."

- Aron Lee Ralston

**Thank you Hahah.com for the special screening passes! You can check out their deals at their website , join them on their FB page or follow their updates on twitter.

Happy 183rd Birthday Jules Verne!

2011-02-08T10:52:00.000+08:00

Am loving the Google Doodle dedicated to him!

Oh Snow!!

2011-01-28T09:28:00.000+08:00

Oh Snow!

How I wish to feel you so.

The many, many things I want to do with you.

To walk in snowshoes.

To walk along the train station.

To leave behind my footprints in the untouched white snow

To people-watch in the snow.

To walk along the snow-covered street

To shovel snow!

To SKI down the slopes!

To grill during the cold weather.


To just do nothing! Bliss!

lost

2011-01-25T11:29:00.000+08:00

feeling lost.

how do you know that enough is really, enough?

What is a man?

2011-01-20T16:38:00.003+08:00

Fulfillment - Gustav Klimt

A man looks out for those around him — woman, family, friend, stranger.

A man can cook eggs, even better yet, soup.

A man makes things, a DIY person - be it a fence, table or a dog house.
A man knows what he wants to buy when out at the malls, he doesn't window shops.
A man owns up, admit his wrongs, apologizes and make things right again - whether he likes it or not.
A man can speak to dogs as to how the dog trust a man.
A man can always find a good movie/documentary to watch on television. A man don't channel surf.
A man loves gadgets - they excite him.
A man carries credit card and always some cash.
A man is good at his job, not his career. If a man doesn't like his job, he gets a new one.
A man infers - he makes you, even before you say a word; he has already figured something out.
A man doesn't point out that he cleaned his room.
A man looks out even more so for children, always making sure they're in front of him.
A man drives like a man.
A man drinks liquor at night and beer during the day. Sometimes vodka but never diet coke.
A man gets the door and chair, without thinking, without any reasoning.
A man stops the traffic, when he must and hails a cab when needed.
A man is comfortable being alone - like in his cave.
A man doesn't fuss much about his clothes, his shoes or if his hair is done right.
A man keeps his hair short and neat, and his nails, even shorter.
A man always rationalize and explains his doing, even when they don't make sense to him.
A man love meat. He hungers for it.
A man knows what to do when alone - read a good book, play Grand Theft Auto or maybe, golf.
A man curse, craft opinions and pay compliments. Either way, he means them all.
A man is a poet and artist in disguise. He enjoy designing the strokes and colours of his life.
A man knows how to fish. And he fish for only the best.
A man doesn't know anything. He sometimes try to, but he enjoys knowing what other men knows.
A man observes and then he thinks, and then he share his thoughts. Sometimes.
A man appreciates beauty in a person, animal or any living thing. Both inside out.
A man understands his past, work towards his future and accepts just the way he is.
A man in in short, are complicated beings - never say you know what he's thinking.
A man will always be a man - even if he questions his manhood.

Shooting Star

2011-01-18T19:03:00.001+08:00

Any star is enough if you know what star it is.

O Star (the fairest one in sight),
We grant your loftiness the right
To some obscurity of cloud-
It will not do to say of night,
Since dark is what brings out your light.
Some mystery becomes the proud.
But to the wholly taciturn
In your reserve is not allowed.
Say something to us we can learn
By heart and when alone repeat.
Say something! And it says, 'I burn.'
But say with what degree of heat.
Talk Fahrenheit, talk Centigrade.
Use Language we can comprehend.
Tell us what elements you blend.
It gives us strangely little aid,
But does tell something in the end
And steadfast as Keats' Eremite,
Not even stooping from its sphere,
It asks a little of us here.
It asks of us a certain height,
So when at times the mob is swayed
To carry praise or blame too far,
We may choose something like a star
To stay our minds on and be staid.

-Robert Frost (1874-1963)-

E42T : 42 East Restaurant & Bar

2011-01-13T20:21:00.000+08:00

Pork ribs. Pork ribs. Pork ribs.

The one word that could ultimately describe 42 East Restaurant & Bar is their Pork Ribs. Situated at the end lot of Lorong Rahim Kajai 14 in Taman Tun Dr Ismail, E42T unique name was derived from the very fact that the restaurant location is situated facing east and the shop number is well, 42. Pretty cool aye?

42 East @ T.T.D.I

With large TV screens plastered all around, it is no doubt that this place is ideal for those football or tennis matches, or say, a movie? Only downside is that the cushioned chairs are aligned with the wall, and is pretty uncomfy when you've to constantly turn your head to the direction of the biggest screen of em all.

Large screen for all your favourite matches!

We bloggers were treated with scrumptious food, all served before us as if they were fit for a king. The flow of drinks slowly came, each one glass at a time. If anything at all, the alcohol content in the drinks here were pretty strong, especially their specially made in house frozen Margaritas. Available in four flavours, take your pick from Strawberry, Passion Fruit, Mango Mania or the original classic Lime flavour. Smoothly blended to perfection, the margaritas are served at RM18 during happy hours (until 9pm) or just RM20 for the non-happy hours.


Frozen Strawberry Margarita And ah, E42T is known for its baby back pork ribs, but they also serve up other finger food and mains as well. Well, I've to say its not the best selection of food in town, but this has gotta do when complimented with your mug of beer or glass of margarita! Worth a try if you're starving. Otherwise I reckon you skip em all and go straight for the ribs instead! Cheesy wedges @ RM9 Clam pot @ RM14

Sauteed prawns with paprika @ RM16

Fried crispy chicken chop with garlic capsicum sauce with choice of 2 side dishes @ RM18

The famous pork ribs!

Drinks to satisfy your thirst

E42T Drinks Menu

Love the fact that E42T takes into detail on its overall ambiance. With these beautiful lights to complement the restaurant's setting.

Light Up!

The view from inside E42T

Group Shot!

Visit E42T today for their pork ribs! :)

E42T

42, Lorong Rahim Kajai 14

Taman Tun Dr Ismail

60000 Kuala Lumpur

Malaysia

Tel: +603 7726 7688

2011-01-03T14:55:00.000+08:00

A new year beckon many aspects

Many dreams, many hopes

Yet all still with uncertainties

Just.......like a ballet dancer out of breath

I feel so faint, so weak at times

With a beautiful dress but yet so empty inside

Not knowing what to do or what the future holds

Just.......like a ballet dancer out of breath

A loss of interest in the things i do

Oh so routine, its not what i can hold on to

Many spins, swirls and carefully on en pointe

Just.......like a ballet dancer out of breath

I am.

A Fairytale Christmas!

2010-12-30T01:33:00.001+08:00

Far inside the woods of Tamarind Hill, Kuala Lumpur, little girls and boys alike were acting mysteriously to portray their best fairytale characters. It was not an act for a Shakespeare play nor was it an audition for a fairytale drama, instead it was a magical Christmas Fairytale party that was long anticipated by these excited bunch of kids.

Oh yes! It was the night everyone was waiting for. The food, the drinks, the lucky draw prizes and the good company of one another, this Christmas Fairytale party came to live with hot royal prince and princesses, mystical mermaids, spellbinding witches, brutish ogres and the rest of the fairytale characters you have read about during those bedtime stories not too long ago. Welcome one, welcome all, to the party where all your dreams can come true, literally. :)

welcome all to the Fairytale Christmas Party of 2010

Cherished memories

Fairytale characters coming together


Goldilocks, Pied Piper of Hamelin, Grande Sexy Momma, Red Riding Ho

Goldilocks and Shrek!

The witch and I

Hansel & Gretel group

Rapunbelle group

My group consisted of seven people and our theme was 'Brutally Ever After'. Something really different as compared to the typical happy endings and the 'happily ever after' story. I portrayed Goldilocks who got mauled by the three bears. Then there was the Pied Piper of Hamelin, who instead of successfully getting the rats drowned in the river, he got attacked and bitten by these nasty rodents instead! Next up was Tinkerbell, yes Peter Pan's companion, who was so heartbroken that Peter Pan chose Wendy over her, she went completely maniac, she took drugs and broke her wings - lifeless that is. Then there's Snow White and her prince. The twisted tale here is that both Snow White and her prince were abusive towards each other and there was no 'happily ever after' in their case. Snow White had to juggle with two annoying babies and was at the same time, pregnant with the third! Her prince was drunk at most times and wasn't exactly sure what he was up to! The last pair speaks about Red Riding Hood and the hideous wolf! The brutal tale here is of when Red Riding Hood chased the wolf with a pair of axe - bloody messy killing! As silly and ugly as we may have looked that night, we were blessed enough to have won the second placing for the best theme/dressed group! Yay!


Brutally Ever After group!

And then, the craze of drinking, partying and dancing! Ah, sweet sweet moments - of both joy and laughter!

Crazy act

Cheers!

Santa who?

The night to remember!


The can-can dance


Gabby, Arystle, Karen

This was truly a memorable night and one Christmas party to be remembered. Closer friendships were made as we each bonded and found that connection with one another. As Henry Ford once said, "Coming together is a beginning. Keeping together is progress. Working together is success". And true enough, at this Fairytale Christmas party, like a dream, it was a sign of coming together. A sign of many, many more successful events and brilliant moments together! :)

Goldilocks Adventure Gone Wrong

2010-12-21T19:36:00.001+08:00

Once upon a time, there was a girl named Goldilocks. She went for a walk in the forest. Pretty soon, she came upon a house. She knocked and, when no one answered, she walked right in.

At the table in the kitchen, there were three bowls of porridge. Goldilocks was hungry. She tasted the porridge from the first bowl. "This porridge is too hot!" she exclaimed. So, she tasted the porridge from the second bowl. "This porridge is too cold," she said. So, she tasted the last bowl of porridge."Ahhh, this porridge is just right," she said happily and she ate it all up.

After she'd eaten the three bears' breakfasts she decided she was feeling a little tired. So, she walked into the living room where she saw three chairs. Goldilocks sat in the first chair to rest her feet. "This chair is too big!" she exclaimed. So she sat in the second chair. "This chair is too big, too!" she whined. So she tried the last and smallest chair. "Ahhh, this chair is just right," she sighed. But just as she settled down into the chair to rest, it broke into pieces!

Goldilocks was very tired by this time, so she went upstairs to the bedroom. She lay down in the first bed, "This bed is too hard!" she exclaimed. Then she lay in the second bed, "This bed is too soft!" she said. Then she lay down on the third bed, "Ahhh, this bed is just right," she smiled. Goldilocks soon fell fast asleep.

As she was sleeping, the three bears came home.
"Someone's been eating my porridge," growled Papa bear.
"Someone's been eating my porridge," said Mama bear.
"Someone's been eating my porridge and they ate it all up!" cried Baby bear.
"Someone's been sitting in my chair," growled Papa bear.
"Someone's been sitting in my chair," said Mama bear.
"Someone's been sitting in my chair and they've broken it all to pieces," cried Baby bear.

They decided to look around some more and when they got upstairs to the bedroom,
"Someone's been sleeping in my bed," Papa bear growled,
"Someone's been sleeping in my bed, too" said Mama bear
"Someone's been sleeping in my bed and she's still there!" exclaimed Baby bear.

Just then, Goldilocks woke up and saw the three bears. She screamed, "Help!" And she jumped up and ran out of the room. Papa bear caught her and held her by her hair. Mama bear screamed at her and Baby bear scratched Goldilocks all over with his growing claws. Goldilocks cried in pain and struggled to set herself free from Papa bear's gripe. She finally managed to escape from Papa bear and quickly made a dash down the stairs, opened the door, and ran away into the forest. Goldilocks got lost in the forest and survived only on leaves and river water. She vowed to never returned to the home of the three bears ever again.

- THE END -

The story above was all about Goldilock's adventure that went really wrong!
Here's a sneak preview of the 'Christmas Fairytale' that came to live last friday!

Stay tuned!!

‘Fair Game’ Movie Screening

2010-12-11T21:43:00.007+08:00

The beach + Arystle = perfect combo!

Call me a beach bum or a sun worshipper, the beach can be said to be my second home! Making it a point to go on a beach escapade at least once every year, I love how the sun kiss my skin and how the sea water cools my skin! Alas, we are no sun-proof creatures and extreme exposure to the sun is surely gonna cause us skin cancer if we do not take care of our skin from start.

My all-time favourite sunblock or tanning lotion brand is Nivea. The non-greasy texture is a plus point! Call me weird but I like the sunblock/tanning oil even more when it is oily. I guess the 'oily' feeling helps my skin to not feel so dry when I'm under the sun. As someone who adores the sun, I love being tan and am not too bothered by the rubbish advertising and how the media today portrays that 'fair' is beautiful, lovely, cool, etc. Beauty is very, very subjective and people generally don't take interest in someone just based on the colour of the skin. So the main purpose for a sunblock is to well, block the sun from harming the skin.

With so many brands trying to lure potential sun-lovers to use their products, I can be fussy and hesitant when prompted to try on a new brand, especially one which concerns my skin. Then came along Ocean Potion, equipped with various sunblock, tanning lotions and after-sun lotions. With its interesting packaging and broad range of products offered as well as its name - Ocean Potion' (love how it rhymes!), I might consider switching my sunblock/tanning lotion brand if the texture is to my liking.

The wide range of products from Ocean Potion

Good news is that Advertlets together with Ocean Potion will be presenting the movie screening entitled 'Fair Game'. Starring Naomi Watts and Sean Penn, this high suspense movie is worth the watch because it encircles the story about the weapons of mass destruction to justify the invasion of Iraq. Even better yet, on that day of the movie screening, you can bring along your existing sunblock and exchange it for Ocean Potion products at discounted prices!! Find out more here.

Academy Award nominee Naomi Watts and Academy Award winner Sean Penn

If anything at all, Ocean Potion seems encouraging enough for me to give it a try. Based on its reviews, I am looking forward to trying the products on my own and hopefully, the texture, smell and effectiveness will satisfy me. :) Imma keep myself free for this screening!! :) Keeping myself save from the sun's dangerous rays is a must hence I slap on sunblock on a daily basis, even when I'm not at the beach as an early prevention from skin cancer, pigmentation, etc. I would love to be one of the many to win the Ocean Potion products. Hopefully then, one day soon I'll be a princess of my very own private beach and I can bring along all the Ocean Potion products I can carry with me to my beach home: a golden palace - perfect for all those sun rise and sun set moments and to enjoy life with pure bliss! :)


Arystle's future beach home! haha!

Of Deafness & Muteness in Peanut Pancake Town

2010-12-05T20:13:00.000+08:00

The crowd stood around the little stall, by the corner of the road, waiting patiently to bite into the tasty peanut pancake. The petite lady was busy packing orders and slicing the fresh, out-of-the-pan peanut pancake, made by her beloved husband. I said to her, "Four pieces please", and to my dismay, she did not response. I repeated again, "Aunty, four pieces please", and was starting to get irritated when she ignored me. It was then that I knew she was unable to hear nor speak......

The famous peanut pancake stall in Batu Gajah

My very first visit to Peanut Pancake Town was a joyful one - not only because I was able to taste the best peanut pancake - yet, but because it somewhat opened my eyes to see the lengths individuals go through to make the very best of what they have. The inability to speak nor hear can be very discouraging to some. Being deaf-mute isn't easy when one have to go through their daily live accepting the fact that they were born in such a manner.

Yet, I'll have to admit that Batu Gajah has the best peanut pancake yet. Way better than KL and I've yet to taste any peanut pancake as delicious as the ones made in Batu Gajah. This town is located in the state of Perak, Malaysia, about 24 km from Ipoh. Small and welcoming, this couple can be seen already busy from as early as 7am in the morning. Peanut Pancake - an English name i call it, as to what some may refer to in Chinese as 'Tai Kauh Miinh", or in Bahasa as 'apam-balik'. Commonly seen in the night markets, peanut pancakes are sold alongside apom.

Famous in the town of Batu Gajah, this peanut pancake stall is operated by a deaf-mute couple. On where they actually live and on whether they had children, i do not know. But i do know that they make really good, tasty, finger-licking peanut pancakes! And i mean, really, really yummy good! :)

See the steps below on how a yummy peanut pancake is made:

1st step: Laying the pancake base in the pan

2nd step: Sprinkling white sugar unto the base of the pancake


3rd step: Watch it simmer and ensure the base doesn't get burn

4th step: Once the base is all well-done, pick it up gently, as so to not break its shape

5th step: Spread butter all over the inner lay of the base

6th step: Wait for the butter to melt all over and to soften the inner lay!

7th step: Sprinkle grounded peanuts all over!

8th step: Savour every bite!

Chomp it down and you will instantly taste goodness in your mouth. With a lot more appreciation for the two pair of hands which carefully crafted this perfect triangular food piece, you can be sure that the taste will leave a lasting impression on you.

Location: Stall at Jalan Pandak Akhat, 31000 Batu Gajah, Perak, Malaysia.

Staying Strong

2010-11-28T14:19:00.000+08:00

Stay strong Mum. We love you.

Get Tangled with Rapunzel!

2010-11-27T15:35:00.001+08:00

Directors: Nathan Greno & Byron Howard Genre: Animation, Comedy, Family

"After receiving the healing powers from a magical flower, the baby Princess Rapunzel is kidnapped from the palace in the middle of the night by Mother Gothel. Mother Gothel knows that the flower's magical powers are now growing within the golden hair of Rapunzel, and to stay young, she must lock Rapunzel in her hidden tower. Rapunzel is now a teenager and her hair has grown to a length of 70-feet. The beautiful Rapunzel has been in the tower her entire life, and she is curious of the outside world. One day, the bandit Flynn Rider scales the tower and is taken captive by Rapunzel. Rapunzel strikes a deal with the charming thief to act as her guide to travel to the place where the floating lights come from that she has seen every year on her birthday. Rapunzel is about to have the most exciting and magnificent journey of her life........."

Get tangled with Rapunzel today! Ah, we have all read about the long-haired Princess Rapunzel - the one with the luscious locks and one who happens to be locked up in the high tower by a wicked witch. Prince charming comes along in his white shining armour and handsome horse, and ta-da, they fall in love and live happily ever after. Sounds like a typical fairy-tale! Well, good thing is, Tangled happens to have a slight twist to that 'typical fairytale'. Watch the trailer below for a sneak peak into this Disney film that's coming our way.

Featuring the voices of both Zachery Levi and Mandy Moore, Tangled is a fairytale told in the modern world. I was lucky enough to attend an early screening on it, two days prior to its release into the cinemas. The best part yet is that it was screened in 3D! Amazing effects on 3D, especially when Rapunzel turn and twist around while dancing! Feels like her long, long, long hair is slapping against your face.
Pretty impressive!

Holding you captive with her long hair

Catch it in 3D today!

Overall, Tangled is a good movie for families and all those Disney-loving kids. A nice getaway from the typical action/horror/ drama movie for us adults too. Watch it today, and oh, try it in 3D! :)

My take on this movie:

Takers

2010-11-19T15:05:00.000+08:00

Director: John Luessenhop Genre: Action, Crime, Thriller

Takers seems too good to be true, with very little conflict.

TAKERS will surely blow your mind away with its intensity and suspense. Crafted across a group of handsome cast and good action sequences, it was a pretty decent heist movie. Nothing unpredictable as anyone who robs a bank will eventually get caught - be it dead or alive. But worth a watch if you're into Paul Walker, Chris Brown, Matt Dillon, Jay Jernandez, Idris Elba or Hayden Christensen.

Flexible Zoe Saldana

Zoe Saldana was awesome, although she played only a small part in the movie. You may recall seeing her in Star Trek, Avatar and Center Stage. One of my lil ballerina idol, looks like she found her flair growing more towards acting than in dancing.


Robbing banks after banks, they go.

This fast-paced movie is worth a watch for all the kicking action and rough 'men-fight'. Loving their lux life and smart plans into getting lotsa money, Takers will only be a movie that will be watched today,and soon after be gone and forgotten.

My take on this movie:

Flowers of Joy

2010-11-01T23:47:00.005+08:00

this turned my blue monday into a yellow one!

★ Meeting Frank James Lampard

2010-11-01T02:12:00.007+08:00

Frank James Lampard

a name that brings much fame and glory

a name that can change the history of football

a name that can fetch many billion dollars and

a name that spells of an utmost legend.

Never had I imagine that I would be able to meet Frank James Lampard face-to-face and to even shake his hands and hug him. Lampard to me, isn't the 'greatest' player of all times.... yet, i felt excited to meet this man who plays as a midfielder for Chelsea but surprisingly, scored more goals than any strikers in that club.The winners and the organizers gathered together early in the morning and we made our way to Stamford Bridge, Fulham, several underground tube stops and tube line change away from where our hotel was located. The process at the tube station took quite awhile as we were traveling in a group and the organizers had to purchase a day pass travel card for each of us which took quite a fairly bit of time.

us outside Chelsea Football Club

The famous wall outside the club was a firm landmark to mark the great history and past achievements of Chelsea. With legendary players plastered all over the wall, it is without a doubt that tourist and hard-core fans alike were drawn to it, alike a magical force drew them towards the wall. Very impressive and cleverly executed, the wall was one of the star attraction, after the Chelsea merchandise store and the statue of Peter Osgood, that stands proudly outside the West Stand end of the stadium.

Wall of fame 1

wall of fame 2

sis & i at the double winners wall

with the entire team!

The legendary Peter Osgood played actively during the 1960s and 1970s. Having established himself within the Chelsea club, Osgood was one of the few who managed to score in every round of the FA Cup in 1970. Tragically, he suffered and died from a heart attack at the age of just 59. Being the legend that he is, his statue stands outside the stadium, in remembrance of his effortless contribution to the club - that just had to be told and shared to all footie fans near and far.

Statue of Peter Osgood

Standing outside the stadium, we were each given the match tickets and was delighted to know that we were going to be part of the Zola Suite at the West Stand area. Basically, the 'suite' ticket entry entitles one for a meal and free-flow of beer, wine and juices. The food wasn't that great but the service was somewhat good - you were given attention and the waiters were all very attentive to our needs. The suite can be better because it was merely rows after rows of tables and to me personally, i found it rather cramped and small to be even considered as a suite. Oh well, shouldn't be complaining too much. We were given options to choose our starter, main course and choice of dessert.

the priceless match tickets

Inside the Zola Suite

place your bets on the match score

spoilt for choice

Enjoying the fellowship and the food placed before us, the General Manager of Maxis, Michael Chan visited our table to check if everything was fine. A lil chat and some photo shots taken, he left soon-after as we all got ready to enter the stadium to watch Chelsea and Wolverhampton in action.

the group with Michael Chan, GM of Maxis

As we entered the stadium, I cannot help but feel the major difference in watching a match live at the stadium as compared to watching it back home in KL through the TV screen. The fans cheering, the crowd roaring, the usherettes attentively observing and us.....................just speechless. Sitting among the crowd which were 95% clad in the blue jersey, it was an eye-opening experience as the cold air find its way through the stadium. The Chelsea song were sung every now and then and occasionally, when the ball falls into Wolverhampton's possession, a loud "boooooooo" rang through the stadium. Just soaking in the atmosphere and enjoying the match, nothing beats sitting there in the stadium and watching the match live in front of our eyes. Sadly, we were unable to watch Lampard in action as he was still recovering from his injury.

the blue fans

right before the kick-off

the snack counter to quench your thirst during half-time

goal?

spot Drogba & Anelka

After the match, which Chelsea won 2-0 with much ease, the moment finally arrived for us to meet Lampard in person. We were led to a room in the Millennium Copthorne Hotel and there he was, standing tall and chattering with the rest of the people in the room. I was starstruck and we, being crazy, begin to snap pictures of him until Michael Chan, GM of Maxis told us to calm down and take a seat. hehe.

A man of great charm, poise and confidence, Lampard was really friendly, approachable and without a slight thin air of arrogance. Fantastic pr skills and highly amiable, Lampard can be said to be an epitome of all mankind.

first sight of Lampard

Frank James Lampard!

(L-R): Jean Pascal Van Overbeke, Maxis Chief Operating Officer, Frank Lampard & Michael Chan, Maxis General Manager

Lampard signing the jerseys

sis & i with Lampard

with Jean Pascal, Maxis COO

with Rai Low from ProEvents

Jean Pascal Van Overbeke, Maxis COO & Frank Lampard

together with the group

Meeting Lampard was indeed a 'WOW' experience and I'm truly blessed to be one of the chosen winners. Thank you Maxis for this incredible journey, from the start to end, which I will definitely cherish for all the years to come. The overall trip was a blast, as we had a joyous fellowship with new found friends as well as breathing in the cold crisp air of London and exploring all that it has to offer.

the very, very, valuable jerseys and caps

the signed cap

8 is THE number

the priceless signature!

sis signed poster

happy Chelsea

thank you MAXIS for this once in a life time opportunity!

★ ★ continue to soar to greater heights as the best telco ever in Malaysia!★ ★

The Double "L" Experience

2010-10-29T05:51:00.006+08:00

The double "L" experience can be summed up in just two words:

London & Lampard

London Eye & Lampard's Eyes

Departing from Kuala Lumpur on the 21st of October 2010, i left my work responsibilities behind and allowed my mind, body and spirit to be free - for just this one week at least. Timeout, from work and me time! Ahhh, don't we all need that 'me time'? :) As mentioned in my previous post, this was a 'rush' trip by Maxis as they were not entirely sure about the agenda and left us half hanging as well. Thankfully my leave was approved and off to London I went.

The 5 of us winners gathered together for a short briefing prior to our departure by the respective event organizers. Although they were not supposed to be our chaperons, they ensured that we were all informed thoroughly about the plans upon our arrival in London. What surprised me was that there were no Maxis representative who went along with us - guess I was expecting at least one rep to be with us throughout the journey. Turns out, they were already in London! (professionalism points: -1)

the 5 winners: Kok LiHong, me, Camilia, Kar Men & Mohammad Fadli

The journey to Abu Dhabi was a pleasant one as the cabin crew from Etihad Airways were all generous and ever ready to satisfy our questions, hunger, thirst or boredom. Equipped with the latest movies, I watched "Another Cinderella Story" while sipping red wine, and fell asleep soon after. The transit in Abu Dhabi took approximately 2 hours and we were all dead tired, considering it was about 4 in the morning (Malaysia time). We boarded the next flight to London and arrived as early as 7am in the morning. The rush of the cold wind welcomed us ever gracefully although our eyes were barely opened but deep down inside, our hearts were all secretly beating excitedly after a 17-hour flight!

In a group of 4, we took a cab and checked into Holiday Inn @ Regents Park and shortly after that, Michael Chan, General Manager of Maxis came around to give us all a warm welcome to London. A bubbly person who can be seen with a smile at all times, Chan was favourably disposed and friendly with all of us winners of this contest. It was a free & easy day thereafter and we each did what we wanted to - some of us went sightseeing, some shopping, others went food hunting and some merely enjoyed the cool weather and glorious buildings and structures of the soon-to-be Olympic City!

Comfy Holiday Inn

As 'the' day drew nearer, we took an early night rest to gear up for the following day: the day to watch the match between Chelsea and Wolverhampton live at Stamford Bridge and of course the reason why we were all here for - meet Lampard in person! Stay tuned for the next post, coming up soon! :)

l.o.n.d.o.n.

2010-10-21T16:54:00.004+08:00

dear readers, am flying off to london tonight, with a stopover at Abu Dhabi - 17 hours flight! woah! plus jet lag - surely gonna be super tiring. As some of you were already informed, i cannot be reached via BBM, whatsapp, etc. but will be checking my tweets, e-mails and messages. stay tuned for more updates! till then, so long malaysia and heylo london!

Clueless about Lampard & London

2010-10-19T09:43:00.002+08:00

Off I go, to meet Frank Lampard in London come Thursday! Thank you Maxis for this fantastic opportunity. I do not know if I should start praising or complaining about the manner this entire trip is organized. I feel a mixed of happiness and disappointment because my favourite Telco lacked in something so important - its organizing skills, time management and partly, customer service. Here we go.............

London's calling.....

THE HAPPY

If anything at all, that could be a plus point for this trip to London, it has to be the open ticket for the return flight from London. Maxis has decided to allow us to extent our stay and hence it is entirely up to us on when we'd like to return. Hooray! More days to sight-see, shop, eat, party, shop again, eat, and party again!

THE SAD

1. It is Tuesday today, and I've yet to know where exactly I'll be staying in London - the reps roughly told me the place, but can't they at least confirm it? This somewhat tells me that they're undecided on where to put us to rest at night and are still in the midst of deciding. It's merely two days more to go and hey, I have to plan the remaining days of my stay as well.

2. No itinerary. The only agenda I know as of today is that we'll be watching the Chelsea vs. Wolverhampton match live in Stamford Bridge, and proceed to meet Lampard in person after the match. If luck is on our side,we may even get to see Drogba/Terry closer in person. :) Please Maxis, at least let us know what plans you have installed for us - you can't keep playing the guessing game with us.

3. No travel arrangements to and from the airport, Maxis kept us guessing again. Do we need to find our own transport there? Will the meals be provided? What about the transit duration? No proper briefing whatsoever and this is truly uncalled for. I am bracing myself for the trip itself - I hope it won't be a further let down.

So here I am, still waiting, waiting and waiting.............................. for Maxis.

Tell me what I should do. Sigh.

Lost in Wonder

2010-10-13T23:13:00.001+08:00

Giving Up

2010-09-28T17:33:00.003+08:00

i didn't realize that giving up something can be such a maze. so many things to be considered and so many people to be considered too. i've reach a point in my life where chocolates and cheesecake doesn't delight me anymore and where toys are just temporary 'happy' tools.

is this a sign of adulthood? alike a caterpillar ready to turn and fly away? giving up something easier is well, easy, but giving up something hard shows your very own self that you're a strong person and that you're capable to think, rationalize and weigh the options for what's ultimately the best for your life.

i did just that.

Mooncake

2010-09-22T09:39:00.002+08:00

mooncake, mooncake,

oh, for goodness sake!

they're indeed so hard to bake,

can't tell if it's real or fake.

mooncake, mooncake,

oh, for goodness sake!

they are all the customers take,

on a lonesome night at the lake.

≈☼ Happy Mid-Autumn Festival Day!! ☼≈

Nothing You Can Do

2010-09-17T09:34:00.003+08:00

there is nothing you can do that can make God love you more,

there is nothing you can do that can make God love you less.

To London for Lampard!

2010-08-25T02:01:00.001+08:00

Meeting Lampard come September!

Maxis has given me an early birthday present this year! An e-mail congratulating and notifying me as one of the winner to meet Lampard in person, I was in disbelief and in utter shock!! Just a month back, I entered the 'The Biggest Fan Contest' with much hope to meet Messi. I needed to prove that I was Messi's biggest fan and hence I submitted both a video and image and prayed hard I win! True enough, luck was on my side. But strangely, I was selected to meet Lampard instead of Messi. I'm dying to ask the Maxis reps behind this contest on how the selection of winners were made. But alas, winning this contest is a dream come true. Thank you Maxis!! It is without a doubt that I find myself still so loyal to Maxis for the past 12 years now. :)

This is rather weird as I am not even a Chelsea supporter. My heart is still strongly tied with Liverpool - and always will be. And yet, with this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to meet Lampard, no way am I going to give this a miss! This Meet & Greet prize includes an all expense paid 3 days 2 nights trip for 2 people to the selected country. In my case, it'll be London! The prize also includes the flight tickets, lodging, visa charges and meals. Am i just lucky or really blessed? :) Thank you again Maxis!!

I'm really excited to meet Lampard, but really - I want to meet Messi! Maxis, bring me to Messi! oh well. Frank James Lampard - I know he's like getting 200k, in pounds, mind you, for each week throughout the year. He has also won the Chelsea Player of the Year award for three times now, and is Chelsea's 3rd all-time goalscorer with 158 goals in all competitions, including over 100 league goals, the most in the club's history for a midfielder. Wow! Now, I'm thinking of what to say, what to ask, what to do, when I finally meet him in person. Hmmmm.....

Messinspiration!

Will definitely be blogging about the entire trip! More to come! Stay tuned! :)

My Water Moments with Sony Cyber-shot DSC-TX5!

2010-08-18T01:37:00.004+08:00

Being an ultimate beach bum and one who loves water sports, i've been on a lookout for a waterproof camera. one that can accompany me deep into the water and one that can also capture those water memories for me. what perfect timing it was, when Advertlets had an event with Sony Malaysia to snap, spash and win with their DSC-TX5 at Mali Cove in Sunway Lagoon.

come one, come all, for a day of fun, fun, fun!

"My Water Moments with TX5!"

Barely 9.30am and Mali cove was already packed with bloggers and public alike. the sun was beaming and somewhat showed a sign of promise that today's going to be a good day indeed. :) both Josh Lim and Rebecca was busy running about, ensuring everything runs smoothly. go Advertlets! :)

Rebecca and Josh trying to coax the Sony rep.

The minute we passed the entrance gates of sunway lagoon, we were all really excited and could barely wait to see what was planned for us for the day! in whole, the TX5 came in handy, as we snapped away and splashed away and had a ball of a time! someone once said, great things come in small packages. this is very true with the TX5! measuring with only a 3/4" thin body, the TX5 is easily built and functioned to shoot both images and videos.

Sony Cyber-shot DSC-TX5

Shockproof, dustproof, waterproof and freeze-proof, the TX5 was built to withstand all kinds of weather conditions and environment. Pocket-sized to fit any skinny jeans at all, the TXS has a 4x wide-angle zoom and a 3-inch touchscreen LCD (230k pixels). slide you finger across, top and bottom to select the readily available picture options to suit the current setting you're in.

Shockproof, dustproof, waterproof and freeze-proof!

if there's only one flaw worth mentioning about the TX5, it has to be the slow processing method. when taking a shot, I had to wait slightly longer than usual to snap the next picture. this is not good, especially when you're in the spur of the moment and if you have only a few seconds apart to snap a particular moment. Sony should look into this and ensure it's other addition to the family doesn't experience the same thing.

so go ahead an explore the TX5 and let me know if you liked it. after all, the button we press to snap that particular moment speaks a thousand words about us.

with Zen and Betz!

"There is only you and your camera. The limitations is in your photography and in yourself, for what we see is what we are."

- Ernst Haas