Coming to realization...

slightly traumatized.

2009-07-30T00:29:00.003+10:00

darkness. shadow. footsteps. stranger. alone. scared. sick people. helpless. frightened. being flashed - what a freakish night.

sinking.

2009-07-30T00:12:00.003+10:00

it's over. my heart sank. there's nothing much i can do, there's also nothing i want to do about it. just let it be. i believe everything happens for a reason. i shall accept it.

hello friend.

2009-07-04T11:29:00.003+10:00

knew him 10 years ago. one of the nicest guys in the world. someone who knows me well. a tokyo trip too short for catching up. longing for another holiday to spend time together.

who wants to eat?

2009-05-10T23:54:00.002+10:00

Date: Thursday 30 April 2009

Venue: Oriental Spirit 52-54 Victoria St Richmond (highly recommended by Alan)

Event: A 'family' dinner gathering

Verdict: One of the best Thai restaurants in Melbourne - i shall go back for more duck curry..

i see.

2009-04-29T20:36:00.002+10:00

i have learned to pursue the contingency approach to living my life. my own idea of the contingency approach is that there is no one best or fixed way in facing daily situations. to be able to deal with whatever life throws at me, i try to handle all circumstances with techniques that must be tailored specifically to achieve the best possible result in a positive way.

to me it makes so much sense that we have to expect the unexpected. i am learning again to trust people. along the way, there will be disappointment, definitely. when people hurt you, you can fight back, tit for tat. Or, you can simply put it behind you, make it as a lesson to remember. i don't do equivalent retaliation. i prefer the latter method. nevertheless, i will always remember what people do to me - forgive but not forget.

i call this generation gap.

2009-03-18T20:57:00.002+11:00

i was having a chat with a 45-year-old yesterday. once he found out about my age, and also the fact that i am not married, he was in shock. And i was in shock too when he told me this: "Why are you not married yet? You have been wasting your life!"

What a subjective judgment.

It has been 2 years...

2009-02-07T23:24:00.004+11:00

There is no hope or joy except in human relationships.

- Antoine de Saint-Exupéry

...

2009-02-03T20:42:00.002+11:00

You play such an important role. It has become part of my life. I will remember everything.

Reality checking...

2009-01-27T21:33:00.008+11:00

The bloody weather hit 36 degree late this afternoon when i was on my way home. i knew it wouldn't be a smooth and comfortable ride home as everybody including me was trying to get out of the city as soon as possible by squeezing on the first tram that arrived.

i was on tram 59. there was no seat, i was standing, which was what i preferred anyway. when we stopped at the Franklin Street or A'Beckett Street stop (I can't remember which one it was...), this heavily pregnant woman got on the tram. When i said 'heavily', i mean it's like she's going to give birth anytime. Standing near the doors, i quickly gave way and let her had more space. At that very moment, i was expecting someone, just anyone to give up his or her seat for this mother-to-be. nevertheless, no one did anything. It was appalling.

the pregnant woman was standing right next to this guy in his business suit, wearing his sunnies and reading his mx. Her tummy was so BIG that i was very sure the guy knew she was standing right next to him because her tummy was pointing at his face. However, he didn't do anything. He was still reading his mx. there were other passengers doing their own things like talking on mobile phones, texting, or may be just day-dreaming in their seats, and none of them were kind enough to offer the pregnant woman a seat. She just kept quiet.

i wanted to ask the pregnant woman whether she wanted a seat to rest, and i would help her to look for a seat. but then i held myself back. in my mind, i knew that's the acceptable standard of a right thing to do. then i was thinking from another point of view - if i ask any of the passengers who were sitting down comfortably to give up his or her seat, would i be invading someone's privacy? When i was wondering the notion of morality, someone got off and the pregnant woman took the seat.

When i got off the tram, i kept thinking about what happened. i realize i should have done something. i should have helped her in getting a seat. In today's society, many of us are selfish and ignorant. People should be more generous and make the world a better and happier place to live in.

One thing i love about summer of January 2009....

2009-01-26T17:44:00.005+11:00

I went for a swim at Sth Melb Beach three days ago, it was awesome. I was shivering while going into the water. It was not as warm as i thought it should be. That's usually what happens at the beginning. But after the first dive into the water, everything felt so good. Unbelievable.

It is amazing how the water washed away my physical and mental tiredness and troubled thoughts. i felt alive.

Stepping into the beginning of another year. Awesome...

2009-01-02T23:51:00.003+11:00

Yep. Another year has gone. It is so good to be alive and still kicking! We were celebrating new year's eve and it was a great gathering with laughters, chats and delicious food thanks to the two cooks who prepared most of the food, Sandy and Yong. Hunger was appeased by Matriciana pasta and crispy pork while thirst was quenched by champagne.

Growing older is inevitable. The only thing we can do is to look at this nature of life with different attitude, in a positive way. My perception is - growing older means growing up as time passes. As we grow in years, we gain more experience and learn from our mistakes, that's how we become wiser. I do not mind that and in fact, it is something that I look forward to. I have done enough reflection of last year and lessons are learned. I will get on with my living and be happy, that's what matters most to me.

The Curious Case of Benjamin Button...

2008-12-31T00:45:00.002+11:00

This nearly three-hour film is sad but touching; with its own beauty to be deeply felt by its audience. Brad Pitt has given a compelling and touching performance while the stunning Cate Blanchett is simply gorgeous. This is my movie of the year. The whole experience has imposed great impacts on me. What a movie to end year 2008.

A night of seafood heaven...

2008-12-30T23:30:00.006+11:00

With year end approaching, i was attending company dinner at Conservatory, Crown Towers last night.

I have always loved eating seafood. The night was awesome with the freshly-shucked oysters, delicious prawns, perfectly-grilled fish and slices of smoked salmon being my personal highlights. Simply scrumptious.

for a friend...

2008-12-14T15:20:00.003+11:00

this little piece of writing is dedicated to my friend Gordon Chong. He is an expert in Search Engine Optimization (SEO) and for those who are interested please do not hesitate to visit his website:

http://www.rankfirst.com.au/

suddenly i saw...

2008-12-02T23:46:00.004+11:00

The night of 1 December 2008 was special. I looked up into the sky, there it was, a smiley face. i will always remember that.

have you ever...

2008-11-26T21:43:00.002+11:00

Have you ever seen everything around you moving so fast and spinning with the light so bright?

Have you ever felt so dizzy that you couldn't even get up and had to stop moving?

Have you ever felt so sick that you started sweating profusely in just a few minutes?

Have you ever been attacked by pain in your stomach till you couldn't stand and walk straight?

Yes i have experienced all the above in one day, today...

the moment...

2008-11-23T15:33:00.005+11:00

Time & Date: 1950, 21 Nov 2008

Weather: Cold, windy and raining

Venue: Tram stop on Flemington Road

Dress code: Casual - Jeans, Emily jumper

Intention: Waiting for tram, any tram that first arrived

Essential accessory: Multipurpose luggage-liked carry bag, umbrella

Lesson One: Stop over-estimating myself that i am fit enough to handle the cold, and hence i should wear at least enough to keep warm next time

Lesson Two: If it is windy, remember to bring along my earmuff

Lesson Three: If it is raining, just go ahead and wear gumboots

Ignorance is bliss, really...?

2008-11-12T22:42:00.003+11:00

Why do some people keep taking advantage of others and don't even realize, or don't want to realize that they are doing it? When are they going to stop?

I am very disappointed at what happened, and at myself because there was nothing much i could do. Half of me wished i didn't find out about anything at all; another half of me thought i needed to know everything about it. As i grow older, i become increasingly aware of unhappiness, suffering and pain. i should just keep quiet, be silent.

Simpler is better...

2008-10-27T22:02:00.004+11:00

We all communicate. I like to communicate with different kind of people at different level. It is challenging.

Have you ever come across those showy, over-pedantic and bombastic-vocabulary-using people who think they sound so grand by giving pompous speech or writing? Yes it does prove you are on a better and higher level of intelligence(?) than the rest of us, undeniably. So, enjoy the moment, for now.

However, I still think the best communication is not about how many high-sounding words being used in a message, but how well the message is being delivered to the recipient and is understood by the recipient in the shortest period of time possible.

Be open...

2008-10-03T23:30:00.003+10:00

Humans are complicated creatures. Everyone is different and that's what makes the world so interesting.

I cannot expect people around me to treat me well. Even though when i think i am right or i have done nothing wrong or it is not a big deal, in the end i might just get a punch in the face without warnings. I have to keep increasing my tolerance level from time to time. Frankly, i have been doing so for ages and the boundary has been pushed again and again. That's fine, please keep pushing me; because i know i'll become stronger.

We are unlike each other, obviously. With that, i am learning how to be more open in accepting people as who they are, so that i can benefit myself in any possible ways. I don't want to waste time on anger or being upset because it drives out my happiness...

:)

2008-10-01T23:48:00.004+10:00

Smiling is infectious, you catch it like the flu...

Spread your smile to people around you! They will smile at you too...

Life is beautiful...

2008-09-30T23:45:00.005+10:00

It is a wonderful world. Yet, not everything will go as planned. It is okay to be upset sometimes. It is all right to be emotional sometimes. But do not let those feelings drag you all the way. Be resilient as we grow with experience gained.

Waking up in the morning, realizing it is the time to start anew by creating the beginning of the rest of your life, how do you feel? Fresh indeed!

Run...

2008-09-23T22:29:00.002+10:00

Run. Free your mind. Release your stress. Care about nothing at all.

Endeavour to make every day a happy day...

2008-09-08T23:20:00.002+10:00

Things keep changing in life. Expect the unexpected; face the inevitable. Be vigilant at all times.

Enjoy every aspect of life with optimism and enthusiasm.

You could have said something to me and be frank...

2008-09-07T23:29:00.003+10:00

There it was, i felt degraded at that very moment. The worst thing was that - I was the last one to find out, how freaking embarrassing. My heart sank to the bottom of nowhere.

Now then I realize it was all a lie few months ago and i actually believed what i was being told, utterly. i was genuinely honest with my opinion. Oh well, Inspired no more; hatred not really; disappointed it is now.

For me this is one of the greatest lessons in my life so far.

the after-5-ers..

2008-09-05T23:11:00.002+10:00

Time does fly when it is busy. What a cliche.

When the clock strikes five, some people just can't wait to get out of the building. Half running and half walking, hoping to beat the rush by getting on to the first tram, bus or train that they can catch.

I like to watch people around me on the street after work - talking on mobile phones, starting to bitch about colleagues at work, puffing cigarettes, queuing up in front of ATM to withdraw cash, waiting at corner of the road for the green man sign...

midday weekend dose of caffeine incident...

2008-08-31T19:15:00.003+10:00

There were a few times of eye contact with smile. Then you left. I was thinking just like one of those movies that you might drive your car right next to the pole where i was waiting for the tram. It was merely a thought in mind.

Two minutes later, you did. I didn't even know you were there until you started talking to me while the light was red for you.

Was it self-fulfulling prophecy? Deja vu? Or coincidence? I am not sure. It just happened.

Sanity counts...

2008-08-28T22:51:00.003+10:00

The world is constantly changing. That's why we get to read newspapers and magazines with different articles everyday. When it comes to dealing with whatever that's waiting for me in the world out there, i have to be rational, try to think with a good sense of judgement and getting out of my comfort zone for personal development and continuous improvement.

I treat others as I would like to be treated. It is my core principle in life. The more i grow, the more i realize respect is to be earned. We can't expect people to show us respect if they don't think we deserve it. Please bear in mind that one's word, action and attitude reveal the behavioral outpouring of the unconscious.

To perform on stage...

2008-08-16T23:31:00.004+10:00

There is a purpose to life's events. I believe whatever happens happens for a reason.

Everyday is like carrying out performance on stage. You have got to own the stage and impress the grandstand. You practice, you rehearse, you improvise or you deliver. People around might be looking at you constantly and judging you based on your actions. Alas, finger-pointing is inevitable. My enthusiasm faded. My confidence evaporated. I felt like I have already been labeled.

Camaraderie is out of the question. What a melancholy truth.

2008-08-12T22:37:00.003+10:00

it has been a while since i last wrote something here...

anyway i met up with an old friend of mine yesterday. i was lucky that the timing was right and he was there. A bit of chatting here and there about life. It was nice.

2008-07-25T23:48:00.003+10:00

To me, very often, it is not the value or monetary worth of an item that impresses me, but it is the action of one taking effort to do something for me that counts the most. Much appreciated.

time flies...

2008-07-25T23:15:00.004+10:00

Friday 18 July 2008 -> good dinner + good friends + chatting + laughing = a happy birthday {(tendency to keep a low profile) + (that's all i need)}

2008-07-15T23:13:00.002+10:00

I must say, if someone was rude or did something offensive to me (without apologizing), I will somehow remember that particular event for a long, long time.

Those who think they are always better than the rest, please take responsibility of what you have done. I felt totally disgusted when situation arose and you just kept quiet, pretending nothing was going on. Shame on you.

It was even more appalling when I realize you do not have manners. Initially I was shocked and confused thinking whether it was really happening to me. After careful re-examination of past similar incidents, I have recognized that you choose to behave that way, and that's who you are. I got to know you a bit more. Therefore I have learned to control my response towards similar circumstances.

It would be unrealistic to expect that people around you are all polite and thoughtful. For those who do not have socially acceptable behaviour or basic human interaction etiquette, I feel sorry for you all. Please learn some manners.

2008-07-01T22:28:00.005+10:00

i woke up this morning, feeling pretty excited. it is the second half of the year (already?)! time sure does fly... i paused, took a moment, and pondered. i realize we don't always have the same perception of life. it changes according to individual circumstances and experiences.

i have been making the right choices by making the wrong choices and vice versa. glad i did that and i might still be going through that at some stage, never know; but it is all good. mentally, it helps me grow.

2008-06-22T22:32:00.002+10:00

i must admit that i cannot take on too much of spicy food. nevertheless, eating spicy dishes during winter is one of my favourite activities. the burning sensation on my taste buds drives me mad!

please take note my friends...

2008-06-15T22:32:00.003+10:00

this restaurant is located near the corner of lonsdale and swanston street, cbd. my first visit with bernard was all right, food is not bad at all. however, after my second visit with jess last week, i would prefer not to go back there again.

don't be lulled into the false sense of security that with an open kitchen, the food handling and cooking process will be safe for consumption. on the left side, they have a 'half-open kitchen' where you can see some old chinese lady or 'i-am-so-bored' looking young kid wrapping dumplings behind the glass with no gloves. that's not the best part yet. i was sitting at the small little table with jess closest to the kitchen area where they prepare all the steam food. i saw this boy working in the kitchen accidentally dropped all 4 dumplings from his hand onto the floor, i repeat, the kitchen floor. without hesitation, he picked up all 4 dumplings, removed visible dirt and particles by his hand, and then put them back into the bamboo steamer - start steaming the dumplings.

OMG. i couldn't believe what i saw. that is an open kitchen. everyone sees what you are doing in there. this is appalling because how can one who works in kitchen has no basic and proper knowledge of food handling. i felt sorry for the kid who did that because firstly, he was not being educated with such important understanding of having relevant work etiquette. secondly, the restaurant owner should have managed his or her business better by taking care of the staff, educate them so that they know what they are doing.

after all, we are talking about things that we put into our stomach, we wouldn't want to risk our health.

2008-06-15T22:13:00.002+10:00

First week of winter - exciting. i caught a snapshot of this street, it is not too far from where i live now. it was a quiet saturday morning. i bet some of those who work during the week were still sleeping in trying to catch up with some shuteye...

George Sampson declared winner of Britain's Got Talent 2008

2008-06-07T23:28:00.001+10:00

honestly, i uploaded the first 3 videos without knowing that he's going to be the winner...!

George Sampson FINAL performance Britain's Got Talent

2008-06-07T23:27:00.001+10:00

it just gets better...

Britain's Got Talent SEMI-FINAL 2008 - George Sampson

2008-06-07T23:24:00.001+10:00

amazing...

2008-06-03T23:30:00.000+10:00

This is a mail box...

Britain's Got Talent - George Sampson, street dancer

2008-05-31T01:51:00.001+10:00

he came back...

Britain's Got Talent - George Sampson Streetdancer

2008-05-31T01:43:00.004+10:00

absolutely like this kid. he is so natural, modest, down-to-earth and unpretentious... not to mention, he is really cute...

thanks for letting me know...

2008-05-30T00:13:00.004+10:00

very often, words and acts of someone you trust impose enormous impact on the way you think. i have been told to share my feelings, not only the good ones, but also the shitty ones. to my surprise, i realize i don't really whinge and whine, i just talk and laugh...

Recap...

2008-05-27T22:19:00.004+10:00

life has been a roller coaster ride for me in the past two months. family keeps asking me to go home, some friends are just unbelievably insensitive, work is not even what i think it was, and searching for accommodation elsewhere, almost each element of my life contributes to the fact that i was depressed for a certain period of time. Two times of breakdown - i failed to communicate with myself.

Look at what's happening around you from a different perspective. empathizing is a valuable act. you might discover something that you would never think of. Whenever you think there might be an opportunity where you can go somewhere, get what you want, go for it. give it a shot. you will never know unless you try. I am pretty lucky to be given a chance now to start doing something for myself. it is hard work, challenging, rewarding and fulfilling. nevertheless, there is no guarantee of what im doing now will build me a path to success. 5 years from now, i may not be extraordinary, probably not great. i just want to be happy, learning something new every day.

2008-05-09T10:11:00.005+10:00

I went to Vicroad yesterday. Sometimes i feel sorry for those who work behind the counter because they have no choice but to deal with different attitudes of people from all walks of life. i won't put blames on them for being impatient towards us. Some of us are unbelievably rude and do things with no common sense, with no consideration for others.

coming from a customer service background and i know exactly how one feels if other party is just being stupid and arrogant trying to get what they want. i have been dealing with irritating customers in the past few weeks and i hated it. if it reaches the breaking point one more time, i have to apologize to my friend because i can't help him anymore, it is making me sick, very sick.

i hope people can see things clearer and from different perspectives, put yourself in someone else's shoes. Empathizing one's feelings as if they were your own means a lot.

2008-05-09T10:03:00.002+10:00

This is Johnny boy who works hard...

2008-05-09T09:57:00.001+10:00

location: tram stop at the corner of Collins and Spencer Street. Wasting energy...

2008-05-09T09:50:00.002+10:00

i thought it was a fluffy toy...

obstacle is part of my life ingredients that i need...

2008-04-24T09:38:00.004+10:00

imagine yourself carrying a mop, the mop bucket, a broom with dustpan (long handle), a bathroom floor mat and some air freshener - on a tram. i was heading to my new place for cleaning up before moving in. it is undeniably troublesome and difficult for someone who doesn't have an appropriate vehicle for house moving. the difficulty level increases when you are on a crowded tram and some old man with mental illness almost slapped you on your face and with his saliva dripping in front of you while you are carrying all the stuff trying not to look clumsy whatsoever. what an interesting day.

life has become more challenging lately. i m starting to see things clearer than before. where is help when i needed some? don't know.

Words of wisdom...

2008-04-19T02:56:00.002+10:00

"There is bad times out there, but you learn not to allow the bad times to overpower the existence of your being" - Jimmy Scott

watch and learn...

2008-04-15T01:35:00.005+10:00

waking up at 6:15am on a cold Sunday morning is a bit unusual for me. i was determined to wake up early two days ago because i didn't want to miss the chance to learn.

the trip to Berwick was invaluable. learning is work in progress, it is never going to stop. thus we should seize every opportunity to gain knowledge from every aspect because it is never too much, it is just always not enough.

like the sight of this...

2008-04-05T01:22:00.004+11:00

the one in black -> Alan, the one on right in white -> Jess... both of you please take care...

poop...

2008-04-05T01:11:00.004+11:00

That irresponsible pet owner should have picked it up instead of leaving it on the ground to be stepped on... yea i know weird is the only word to describe this whole situation because i saw poop and it is a must for me to squat down and took a photo straight away, out of control....

on Elizabeth street...

2008-04-05T01:04:00.003+11:00

sitting on a bench, enjoying the beautiful weather, thinking what's happening around me...

quotation...

2008-03-31T00:42:00.002+11:00

Quoted by Toomey, a speaker and trainer in health, personal development and work/life balance:

"People tend to be working for the money to fund a lifestyle that gives them enough pleasure to make up for the boredom they feel"

"Often, what people are doing from 9-5 has nothing to do with what they're passionate about"

"Improving your wellbeing and satisfaction is a case of doing the things you enjoy"

"When people find the thing they are really passionate about they get excited and find life more rewarding"

it is too big not to be seen...

2008-03-30T13:42:00.003+11:00

"M" for mindy, thank you very much...

books for sale...

2008-03-30T13:35:00.002+11:00

You can always get a bargain at this kind of bookstore, if you are a fan of second-hand books...

a bit unusual...

2008-03-30T13:02:00.003+11:00

Cool site - at the corner of Flinders and Swanston street on Good Friday. This is often a busy and crowded intersection packed with pedestrians and vehicles...

fact of life...

2008-03-25T09:42:00.007+11:00

whether i am a selfish person, it is not up to anyone to judge. i can't really control the words that come out from others as i don't really care. If i always put others' benefit and welfare as my priority, what the hell is gonna happen to me then? who is going to take care of me? absolutely no one, i have to survive on my own. Someone woke me up with what he said the other day, and i have come to total realization of what a weak person i am, such an easy and transparent target to be taken advantaged of.

I live for myself, i don't live for others. i have to start putting maximum attention into my one and only life, ought to be more concerned exclusively with myself. Getting what i desire, seek for my advantage, concentrate on my pleasure, with moderate regard for others. Bottom line is - treat everyone like how i would wish to be treated. That is it.

a must-watch...

2008-03-17T12:07:00.002+11:00

one of the most powerful performances! Marion Cotillard is mesmerizing... the voice of Edith Piaf is truly amazing...

i was just waiting for tram 112...

2008-03-13T00:47:00.006+11:00

learning how to drink wine... i took this photo while i was feeling dizzy... look at it, there's a glass of wine in that glass of wine~~``~~

Crystal's farewell - sequel...

2008-03-13T00:30:00.002+11:00

i stole this pic from alan's blog! because i didn't have the one on the left with the stranger... i like this photo!

Pellegrinis, 66, Bourke Street...

2008-03-12T01:02:00.012+11:00

i like to hang out at this place, when i have that 'i-just-feel-like-having-coffee" feeling with the "without-talking-to-anyone" mood... the seat right behind the coffee grinder is my favourite spot.

whenever they fill up the grinder with fresh coffee beans, the aroma will blow you away... the coffee served is one of the best ones. i will finish trying all the desserts one day. so far i like the creme caramel because i have a sweet tooth. however i should not get that dollop of cream next time...

Hello senior citizens...

2008-03-10T23:42:00.007+11:00

i like to look around. i like to see what is happening around me. at the same time zone, everyone has a different story of their own, which is pretty amazing and special on its own...

probably due to the reason that i have lost my grandpa quite some time ago, i like to capture moments of elderly couple being together, i think those moments are so naturally beautiful. it doesn't matter what they are doing, or how far they are standing apart from each other, or whether they are talking to each other, or whether he is the grumpy old man who keeps telling the wife what to do... those moments are priceless...

delicious...

2008-03-10T21:37:00.003+11:00

ahh... now i have more time to do what i normally don't have time to do - cooking! im not a great cook but i can still come up with edible and generally acceptable dishes... my mum's cooking is still the best and i learned heaps from her by just standing beside her and watched what she did in the kitchen while i was really young. her movement, her technique, her style... everything, i remember.

i'm a huge fan of seafood. anything from fish, prawn, crab, oyster to sashimi... you name it, if i know it, i like it; you name it, if i don't know it, i 'll try it...

the days we went through together...

2008-03-10T21:28:00.006+11:00

This pair of shoes has been my companion for almost a year. Alan bought them for me about a year ago... i have to say bye-bye to them because they are out of shape completely and can't be worn properly anymore... Thanks Alan! *full of memories*

Start walking more...

2008-03-10T20:57:00.004+11:00

instead of taking tram to my destination, i have decided to start walking more provided i have enough time (having not enough time is not an excuse because i should make time!)

to me walking is free. call me stingy because i will never pay gym membership fee to have exercise indoor. you inhale fresh air while you walk. it is low impact and it will definitely bring you to a higher level of health and fitness. get moving and get physically active...!

When people get too excited...

2008-03-10T15:39:00.002+11:00

i captured a picture that best describes the city of melbourne on a typical warm Saturday night, and also with the Moomba festival on which attracts lots of people into the city... this photo was taken at the busiest street of all - Swanston street.

Rize on Brunswick Street, Fitzroy - Crystal's farewell Part 3...

2008-03-10T00:56:00.005+11:00

Continuously we laughed loudly and simultaneously feeding ourselves with delicious spicy food, we ate until really full. at about 11pm, we were ready to leave the place. photo-taking session is a must! Crystal take good care of yourself, all the best to you back in Guang Zhou and we will definitely visit you in the future!

Rize on Brunswick Street, Fitzroy - Crystal's farewell Part 2...

2008-03-10T00:17:00.007+11:00

Reaching the place, warmly greeted by Crystal's current boss. in general, the whole dining experience is good. the colour, taste and aroma of food is on high ranking and i will definitely go back again bringing my friends along. however, coming from customer service field, the service provided by the customer service assistants was just satisfactory (excluding service provided by the boss himself - excellent)

Rize on Brunswick Street, Fitzroy - Crystal's farewell Part 1...

2008-03-10T00:00:00.007+11:00

Saturday 8 March 2008: i organized a farewell dinner for crystal because she is leaving us for good on coming Friday. she is also known as my miss cherry, dishes washing princess or the queen of washing rice... the night was beautiful with gorgeous weather; the city was crowded as the Moomba festival is on. dinner was at roughly 9:30pm because jess was doing closing at work. Me, Bernard, Alan and Crystal were waiting for tram on Collins...

Finally...

2008-03-08T17:08:00.004+11:00

Friday 7 March 2008: It has come to a halt. It concludes the ending of my commitment. 18 months of effort and dedication for the shop...

i worked hard and learned like i have never learned before. meeting different people and seeing things from different perspectives helped me grow. at the same time, it makes me realize there are so much more to be explored out there.

i have made good friends and i truly appreciate the friendship. Good luck to everyone.

Konnichiwa...

2008-03-04T22:01:00.006+11:00

Ryoko is one of my colleagues whom I have been working together with for a few years. I have been getting along well with her because we both possess similar personality and started working together at almost the same period of time. ***Congratulations on your marriage and please make babies soon***

Long island iced tea...

2008-02-29T23:06:00.003+11:00

life is about having fun with your friends and people around you. It might involve a bit of alcohol to see the other side of yourself because if you are totally sober, there are constraints that tie you up with a bunch of excuses. Get to know yourself better and you'll be surprised of what you might find out.

We will miss you...

2008-02-29T22:41:00.003+11:00

"Mr Kebin" is my senior, and also one of the funniest man at my workplace. But he left today.

His contribution is immeasurable. First of all, i have to mention that his cutting skills is incomparable. Being the master of slicing sashimi, once he holds the knife, slices and slices of fresh salmon will be ready in no time. Not trying to exaggerate, but he can just slice the fish without looking at the salmon fillet, and the sashimi turns out perfect.

I believe most of the don 3 staff will miss our 'happy friday', at least me and jess will agree on that.

When do we meet again...?

2008-02-29T22:22:00.004+11:00

Have you ever missed someone so much it made you think about that someone almost 24/7? Well don't get me wrong, it is nothing on the path of romance. My kindred spirit kicks in and I can't stop thinking about my nephew whom i only spent 2 weeks time with during my holidays. This 1-year-old handsome dude is the most cunning and cutest little boy i have ever met. I love him to bits.

safety first...

2008-02-25T00:30:00.003+11:00

Please do not talk to driver while tram is moving... the driver should set a good example by asking the kid to grab a seat and sit still...

handbag fetish...

2008-02-25T00:25:00.002+11:00

my favourite handbag at the moment... from topshop... loving it.

looking for something...?

2008-02-24T23:58:00.003+11:00

have you ever feel lost? sitting there and just looking at one direction; but in fact, looking at nothing, with emptiness, didn't know what's going on around you...

a notice for someone...

2008-02-21T23:22:00.009+11:00

this is the notice board area in the apartment building where i live. some funny shit going on here.

surreal...

2008-02-19T21:38:00.002+11:00

Someone gave me this card, all of a sudden.

they are made for each other...

2008-02-18T01:25:00.005+11:00

We can't really predict what's going to happen in the future. Life changes and so do we. There will be ups and downs, joys and pain.

As long as they are still holding hands, going through hurdles together, enjoying each other's company, the whole journey is worth it.

the biggest bruise i have ever had...

2008-02-18T01:08:00.002+11:00

accident does happen. i slipped and fell two weeks ago. the bruise looks kind of cool though.

Happy Chinese New Year 2008...

2008-02-12T00:36:00.000+11:00

Thursday 7th Feb 2008 - Happy Chinese New Year to all my friends who have been getting excited during this festive season. Yes yes it is Chinese new year but I'm not really feeling it much because I'm not with my family... :P

Anyways, a dinner together is a must. I know this will sound all too cliche but it is all about getting together and sharing joy and laughter which then bring happeniss (that sounds a bit funny)... Alan, Me, Henny, Jess, Mikha and Bernard were having dinner and tea drinking that night...

meal for the night...

2008-02-04T21:57:00.000+11:00

When i asked Justin whether he wanted any rice to go with the dishes, he told me this is his rice for the night...

feel like baking...

2008-01-28T02:43:00.000+11:00

Ginger nuts and strawberry chocolate soft-bake biscuits...

may be...

2008-01-28T02:13:00.000+11:00

A friend told me today that i have the qualities to be a good time girl. Morally, that doesn't sound right at all. However, think again, if you are occupied with pleasures of good company, how can it be wrong...? When there is coincidence of wants between two parties, and as long as those two parties come to mutual agreement on their own terms, a transaction is made possible.

Talking + Eating + Laughing...

2008-01-26T17:41:00.000+11:00

Hanging out with friends is much more than just killing time. It is about the combination of different personalities and attitudes that makes time worth spending together with.

hello movies...

2008-01-20T01:13:00.000+11:00

Some of the greatest movies of all time. Special in its own way.

Sometimes i feel stupid...

2008-01-15T22:16:00.000+11:00

Friends can be deceiving. Your kindness will be taken advantage of. You care about your friends? You will end up not being appreciated. You will be forgotten totally. Stop being naive. Wake up Mindy.

It is all about empathy...

2008-01-14T22:41:00.001+11:00

People wouldn't understand how i feel unless they put themselves in my shoe. The act of understanding one's situation and feelings plays an important role in human interaction. Some people can be so blinded by the current situation with their own interpretation and opinion. People can change overtime, for better or for worse, it is not up to me to judge...

Friends are about being honest to each other - that is how the norm goes. Nevertheless, there are times where one has to be 'tactful'. Honesty is not necessarily the best policy. We do have to keep our mouth shut, we do have to pretend we see nothing and just turn our head away. Are we sure about that...?

Actually, it is not that confusing anymore...

2008-01-13T00:24:00.000+11:00

it has been a wonderful day! gorgeous weather, had some thai food, catching up with friends, found out more about what's going on with the world, and myself... to be honest, for the past five days, exhausting is the only word i would describe myself. a friend told me i look tired.

my rule of thumb about working together with people is when thing happens, it happens for a reason, it is meant to be learned. Some things are out of controlled, especially the human minds which are so complicated that it is unpredictable. The only thing which is under my control - the way i handle and accept any current situation which is irreversible.

i still have a long way to go. it has just begun. and i am much better than i think i am.

Hello Melbourne...

2008-01-09T23:02:00.001+11:00

It is good to be back.

Crabs!

2008-01-07T06:59:00.000+11:00

This is one of the restaurants that i wouldn't want to miss. Crabs, crabs, crabs! A two-storey restaurant which can be occupied fully even during a weekday - it has its own style of serving.

"We don't serve steam rice, there is only fried rice.", "Okay, I'll take fried rice (no choice)."

"There are only a few styles of cooking crabs here, sweet and sour, sweet and sour + spicy...", "The one which is spicy (My dad likes spicy food)."

"Do you want toasted bread to go with it?", "Toast...? Okay, we'll get 2 slices."

You will get a set of 'tools and equipments' for your 'battle' with crabs. The crabs are fantastic! If you dip the toast into the sauce that comes with your crab dish, it will bring your taste bud to another level...

beary cute...

2008-01-07T03:00:00.001+11:00

It is like an army of soldiers...

Hello roast duck...

2008-01-07T02:53:00.000+11:00

Seeing is believing. This is part of the pre-roasting processes that I have heard so many times but didn't get a chance to look at it until my dad brought me to this place for its famous roast duck. Well, I was eating like a pig when it was served and forgot to take a snapshot of the 'final product'...

Yummy yummy...

2008-01-07T02:30:00.000+11:00

This traditional dessert is called "Cendol" and a bowl of this cold, sweet, shaved ice with coconut milk during hot, sweaty day will cool your body down to make you go for the second serve. There are different recipes in making this mouth-watering dessert, it depends on what location you are at in Malaysia.

I tried Cendol at this place in Klang - it costs me RM 1.20 ( approximately $ 0.40) ! freaking cheap! It tastes good too! Note: Hygiene is something that you don't want to think about sometimes if you wanna have really yummy food in Malaysia... You have to have a strong stomach to handle the food!

Christmas spirit...

2008-01-07T02:22:00.000+11:00

Christmas decoration is just too cool these days. It is like bringing me into a palace or a sparkling deer just shows up right next to you...

Opening soon...

2008-01-07T02:19:00.000+11:00

How exciting can it be...?