G's MoNoLoGuEs

18 January 2012

2012-01-17T16:15:00.000-08:00

It left when I needed it the most.
Now more than ever.

Maybe one day the tears will stop.
The day when I need to cry the most, I may not be able to.
Because the tears would've dried up.

Maybe one day, the pain would stop.
I would stop feeling the pain.
I would become numb. Maybe.

He means the world to me. I'm afraid to look at tomorrow.
Because today I have it all. Today I have him.

Where next ?

2011-09-04T14:16:00.000-07:00

It's been a year since I moved to Edinburgh.
It's September and the time has come............ Where will I go next?

Big Move . . . or Don't Move . . .

2010-11-26T18:44:00.000-08:00

2 months ago, I moved out of my base (as I would like to call it) here in the UK. After all it was the first place I moved in to and lived for a couple of weeks short of 12 months. Hull. There's absolutely nothing here. Well, the money makers of this city (it's what the people here call it, though its a town really) is the University, Reckitt, and PWC. But other than that nothing much goes on here. A lot like the little town of Nilai. Where the huge non local population consisted of the lecturers and students of INTI and Nilai College.

So as soon, or before my contract with the Uni Accommodation ended, I packed up and moved further up North. Something I said I would never do, only because I'd rather not move further up where it was cold most of the time and only got colder during the winter. A friend of mine used to say, "Never say never". And for the last 2 months I've been here in Edinburgh.

It's been a life changing experience for me. After Seremban and Nilai, I worked in KL for 3 years and then moved up to Penang where I stayed put for 5 and a half years. And now here I am moving within 12 months.

A part of me always thought I could've moved out of Penang sooner. So this is a step up then. In less than 12 months I moved from England to Scotland. Got me a small time (for now) job. Am scheduled to start a certification job in January.

But above it all, a big change came into my life. A dear friend who read my tarot card predicted that for the coming year. I'm not ready to go public with it. Though some friends know, most don't. the last 2 weeks was pretty intense, a lot of talking, some tears, and a little bit more certainty than before. So this change is good.

Although I wish other parts of my life had more certainty and stability, I definitely am grateful for what I have and who I have with me here and now.

**************************

I would like to take this opportunity to thank friends who have been there for me, whether they are in Malaysia or UK, my parents and sister for their constant support, and to the person who's seen me through the last few months and been my Rock and still is. And most of all, I thank God for bringing all these people into my life and for all the blessings.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Lost Souls

2010-08-06T16:21:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I wonder . . . Am I a lost soul?

Not that I have any regrets about being where I am right now and doing what I am doing. Does being outside the box mean you're lost? And especially knowing that I sort of want to be in that box. Only that the box is slightly of a different shape, but a box nonetheless.

I know things are slowly starting to shape up. I finally got here, and I am working towards finishing what I got here for in the first place. But what next. I have a few agenda's in mind. But at times, it feels like everything is blurry and cloudy.

Just a weird feeling in my chest and I had to get it off.

The Truth

2010-07-22T10:20:00.001-07:00

What's in the truth?

Is it ok to hide the truth sometimes?

I heard this quote from a certain Jude Law movie :

"Without it (truth) we are animals".

What if the truth turns us into animals?

What if the matter of the fact is that you were trying to protect someone by just keeping the truth away from them, not by lying, but just not mentioning the truth, then what?

PSEUDOINDIAN : Pseudo or Not Pseudo?

2010-01-06T07:28:00.000-08:00

*I found this draft floating amongst some of my unpublished draft (dated 2006) and finally decided to publish it . . .

MALAYSIAN / INDIAN ; am I, or am I not?
PSEUDO ; am I, or am I not?
PSEUDOINDIAN ; am I, or am I not?
WHAT AM I?

Pseudo : is basically a word used to tag something as untrue.

So this Post is just about that.

I am a Malaysian born Indian.
Both my Grandfathers are from India. Paternal Grandfather is from Chidambaram and Maternal Grandfather from Trivandrum.

My Grandma's and Parents were Born here in Malaysia.
So i guess I can consider myself a 3rd generation Malaysian Born Indian, or is it 2nd?

So what's the big Hoo Haa all about?

Okay, so I have the tendency of telling non-Malaysian people I'm Malaysian Indian.

I think a lot of us do. I'm a Malaysian Indian, I'm a Malaysian Chinese.

Some people actually say stuff like;
"Hey, you're from Malaysia but you look Indian!"
Like Malaysian's were supposed to have this particular look..
What do I say?
"Uh, well, I don't know what happened! I woke up one morning and i looked Indian!" ?
Or when I speak to foreigners, they hear my name and say, "Oh That Sounds Like an Indian Name.."
So I tell them I'm Malaysian Indian..

Well, a dear friend of mine; a pakka Tamizh Payen born and brought up in Chennai, for the sake of teasing me started this whole Pseudo thing.
He says; "You're either Indian, or you're Malaysian. Athu enna? Malaysian Indian? And you're not Indian for sure.. So just tell people your Malaysian.."

I insist that I AM MALAYSIAN INDIAN....And so the argument starts...

and at some point, he calls me a PSEUDOINDIAN..

That argument we had may have been a joke at that point of time.
But it made me think.

I recalled something my form 3 history Teacher, Mrs.Chan told us back in school.
She said Malaysia will never have its own identity as long as the Chinese and Indians keep saying, "I'm a Manaysian Chinese" or "I'm a Malaysian Indian" . I guess she was right.

But think about it. Why do we call ourselves that way? Why don't we just say I'm a Malaysian?
*We - not all but some (myself included).
I do have friends who are pro Malaysians as well.

Of course in the up coming blogs, you will notice how this feelings change like a bouncing ping pong ball from one side of the net to the other.

Happy 2010!

2010-01-06T07:21:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year Everyone!

I hope 2010 brings you all the joy and prosperity you want (not just need) : )

I feel blessed for everything that's happened in 2009. The good, the bad, eveything basically. Because I still believe that 'Everything happens for a reason'.

So here's to another 365.25!

ps : Sorry for the long silence

2009-11-03T05:33:00.000-08:00

Ok . . It has been ages.

And lots has happened since then...

LOTS. . .

Meanwhile, I have another blog just to talk about / post UK photos so folks at home are up to date.

Most of you have the site already.

If you don't, let me know...

Feeling : Excited, Grateful & Blessed

2009-06-14T03:22:00.000-07:00

As things slowly but surely fall in place for me, I can't help but feel totally excited!

I am also very Grateful & Blessed.

Grateful for the people who came into my life to give me that little push I needed.

It's a long time dream and I always thought it would remain that way.

But thanks to the people who came into my life at the right time, the dream will come through.

And with the help and support of those who are already apart of my life, I will get to see my dream come alive.

Truely Blessed.

Weddings - to KISS or not to KISS

2009-04-16T19:13:00.000-07:00

Wedding. . . Afterall it's once in a lifetime.

So why not?

Why not spend all we have (or even if we don't have it) for that one day?

What ever happened to Keeping It Simple & Short (KISS)?

Ok - so that never applied to weddings, ever.

Since I've attended more Indian Weddings compared to any other, I know how extravagant Indians can be and how they really go all out - just so friends and relatives etc don't comment on it. Malays just have this huge kenduri party where all the kampung people come together and cook, and you have your ayam masak merah, rendang, and air sirap. Chinese would limit the guestlist inviting only the important people - i should know. (I never knew some folks in my team were married till, I saw them bring their kid to the office a year or so later) or heard from someone, or saw a wedding photo pinned up at the cube. But that's fine, saves me the ang pow money ;). The Indians however, will invite everyone. Because they think they have to. It's a question of dignity and pride.

So I got to attend 2 Indian weddings in March. The 1st of a dear friend of mine, Anushia who married a German guy, Daniel and the second a family friend's.

As simple as it gets and yet beautiful - That's how I would describe Anu's wedding.

(Anu, Premilla and I met in 2002 at a Girl Guides Leadership Training in Seremban. We've been the closest of friends since, despite Anu travelling for work and being away to do her Masters for a year in UK, and Prem located in London with PwC, we make it a point to meet whenever both of them are back, or even if either one is back in the country.) Anu had started planning for the wedding once she got back from her studies.

I remember how she wanted the wedding to be simple (we spoke about it years ago). So simple, even Prem and I weren't on the list. She wanted a wedding at the Scott Road Temple in Brickfields since that's where her parents got married. For those who don't know, it's a prestigeous temple built by the Ceylonese comminuty.

**(The word Ceylonese (The Brits used to refer to Sri Lanka as Ceylon), is usually used in Malaysia by Sri Lankan Tamils to differenciate themselves from the Indians here. Despite the fact that the Sri Lankan Tamils themselves did migrate to Sri Lanka from the southern part of India, they refuse to categorise themselves as Indians.) **

So fancy a temple being called prestigeous! It really is a nice looking temple from the outside. I've not set foot inside, so I won't be able to comment on that. Anushia found out that to have the wedding there (Simple or Not) would cost her quite a bit, just for the name. It's all in the brand isn't it? That plan went out the window.

The wedding was later held at a Golf Resort in Seremban. From her ideal guest list of only parents and closest relatives at Scott Road Temple, to a 100 something people guest list, to a 300 people guest list . . .The last number was somewhere between 200 and 250 after much drama. Lucky for her Daniel's list was no more than 20. She had a little do the night before for the neighbourhood folks who weren't invited to the wedding. Afterall her family just moved to Seremban from Sitiawan a few months before, so they weren't the neighbours you knew for years. Practical I would say.

Anu's wedding saree was a pretty red saree. That's her favourite colour. Her make-up was done by Ashwini, her sister. She hired a saree tying lady, which is, well a must if you are not a pro at saree tying. And you really wouldn't want any mis-haps tying that wedding saree. Also Anu had a few non Indian friends who needed to tie saree and Daniel's sister as well. Somehow I feel in that "I need help with my saree!" category, due to the fanciness of my saree.

The wedding and reception were held together at the same place. The ceylonese wedding was cut short to 45 minutes. (A complete Ceylonese wedding takes up to 3 hours, the bride has a change of saree and wears a veil). And you guessed it. There was no veil or saree changing involved here. Anu was thoughtful enough to have an evening ceromony so those from KL and beyond would have time to travel back before it got very late. High tea reception instead of the usual dinner was something refreshing as well. Being the very proud Malaysian that she is, Anu made sure there was a variety of Indian, Chinese and Malay food served. I've never seen Roti Jala at an Indian wedding :). Or see couples YAM SENG at an Indian wedding. . . But this one had it.

Next was an orientation session, thanks to Daniel's Scouts Buddies. This was to initiate Anu into the "Scout Circle", and as a sign of Initiation, they both received a custom made scarf with both their names on it.

What I really loved about Anu's wedding was the fact that she and Daniel took the pains to come up with a little booklet containing Details of the Ceromony and it's meaning.

Why are they walking around the fire, what's the significance of everything they do throughout the ceremony.

Something very thoughtful, meaningful for the guests, especially those who are non Indians. And yet, I dare say the Indians probably didn't know what each and every part of the ceremony meant. Because I didn't. And this was definitely something different Anu!

So to the Beautiful Couple, I wish you all the best and God Bless!

Must Write . . . . M U S T W R I T E . . . . . .

2009-03-29T09:35:00.000-07:00

Bloggers Block.... Writers Block. . .

Feels like I haven't blogged in ages. Initially I needed time to get used to the new stuff at work, then I just lost it. I can't write. . .

Right now, I am cracking my head to come up with a Personal Statement for Uni Application. Googled for some sample, still not able to get any inspiration.

So I decided to simultaneously watch Brothers & Sisters . . . Think its a coincidence that Justin was also cracking his head For a Personal Statement to get into Med School? Or is this simply the Law of Attraction at work?

I read this book on the Law of Attraction. It appears that the the LoA already exist in our daily lifes. And last week, Aunty Pushpa sat me down and spoke to me about how to attract what I want, whether its the ideal man, or career. And the notes she gave me (orally), was like exactly from the book. Of course I didn't want to tell her that I already read the book and ... well, wasn't putting any of it to practice. She's also been encouraging me to read The Secret, which I have yet to do.

Is this the Universe's way of saying, "Since the book didn't work, I'm sending someone to kick some LoA sense into your head?" Maybe. . .

Aunty practically swears by it. She told me that, till today (starting from the day she practiced the LoA), she's never had issues finding a good parking spot (among other things). I believe her.

And What did I do? I tried it. 3 times, at the office, at Queensbay and Outside EGate. I got the closest Parking Spots just like I visualised! It got me really excited.

Probably sounds like some new age hoolabaloo. . . .But if it works, why not eh?

I really needed to scribble something somewhere. . .

And now that I broke the no writing / blogging spell, hopefully I come up with something smashing for my Personal Statement!

Woo hoo!

New .... New..... New....

2009-03-08T00:59:00.000-08:00

It's that time of the year. . . Re - Org !

Seems to have become a habbit for this department of mine.

I completed 1 year and going on year 2. This is the second Reorg.

So, there's the New Team, the 2 New Team Members, the New Shift, the New Manager.

The Manager talks non stop, I wonder if he remembers escalating me when I was a CW way back, just because I used land-desk instead of netmeeting. Because he thought I really don't have anything better to do but go through his files while he walks to the Printer to check if his printouts were coming out. Ironically, few years down the road, he becomes my manager for a team called, Printer, Hardware and Collaboration Team. What a mouthfull!

But I'm not going to start whining about it. Yes, it's not easy, it's uncomfortable, I'm restless. About the manager, about the new cube mate I'm getting. He's not really the most like-able person in the entire department. My TL flipped when she found out he was in our team.

I just need to chill and go with the flow. . .

This is not permanent for me. . .

I got My Ideal 2009 to think about, and since this is not part of it. . . I'll just give my best to this team, and work on my plans like I'm supposed to. . .

Cephas Hawkins

2009-03-08T00:38:00.000-08:00

Cephas was a friend of mine. . .

We started out as colleagues. Me in Penang, and he the other side of the world in Arizona.

We briefly met while having dinner on shift 4 while I was there.

And when I got back, he took care of all the escalations made to the local Fab Support for Fab 22 and Fab 12.

And at some point we became friends.

He would give me pointers on gym workouts, what should be done, how frequently, and the kind of food we should take.

But the sweet part is, he would never tell me to loose tons of weight. And when I hurt my back, he would IM me daily to find out how I was doing. We seldom emailed, as chatting was real time and more effective since we worked the same shift.

Some weeks ago, I told him that due to my reorg I will be moving to the back end shift, which is the opposite of my current shift.

His next words still appear clearly in front of me. . .

"u leaving me . . .?"

Later that day, he sent me a Valentines Day forward email. . . .

A few days later, I found out that he passed away

in a bike accident. As I was away from work, I wasn't able to confirm it with my US colleagues till later that week.

I still don't believe it and expect his IM message to pop up my screen when I'm at work.

"I'll miss having a caring friend like you Cephas. But I know you're in a better place and in good hands, because you were a wonderful person"

And so it shall be . . .

2009-02-13T07:23:00.000-08:00

I bumped into an ex college mate this morning.

Not someone I was particularly close to back at college, or someone I kept constant contact with. But when we met, we would talk.

In fact, if I recall correctly, we might be from the same hometown.

She was asking about when's my next trip back home.

I told her I was going back in March since there where a few weddings to attend. . .

OOPS!

Talk about classic foor in the mouth syndrome. . .

And she replied "Yes, is it a good month for Indians?"

Not that I knew, but considering the fact that there were a few wedding invitations.. I said Yes..

And then came the dreaded question...

So, when's your turn?

I swallowed hard, removed my foot from my mouth...

And said - "In 2 years"

I just wanted to avoid that sympathy face people give you when they hear that you are single and start to give you that, 'I'm sure the right guy will come along' talk.

Her response to my answer was, " 2 years? So long?"

But this is what got me...

"So where's your boyfriend working?"

Crap...She actually thinks I have a boyfriend. . .

"He's in KL"

"Wah, Long Distance ah?"

"Yes"

Then the lift came, And I just waved bye as I got off at the second floor.

I just hope she doesn't come back with more questions . . .Because I'm bad at keeping up to date with lies. I tend to forget what I lied about . . .

So for now. . .

It shall be, that I have a boyfriend. . . In KL. . .

LOL!

Long Drives, Empty Hearts

2009-01-23T22:46:00.000-08:00

What do you do when you just feel empty?
When you feel like there's just nothing for you?
Even if it may not be really so. . .

I did something scary yesterday.
Scary for me, Scary at the time.

Just like every other off day, I went over to my aunt's place.
Book in hand, there's the TV if I wanted to watch.
But I felt like going out.
Going out with someone, and talking.
The only person I could think of, had made plans with her mom.
Everyone else I knew had their own things to do. I didn't want to waste a text and turned down anyway.

As I got into the car, my mind just started to wonder.
The next thing I knew, I was driving away, further away from my home.

My car was heading to, well, nowhere in particular.
I drove pass Bayan Baru, then towards Balik Pulau.
I passed this place where the old GOS gang had our BBQ and campfire, if I may call it.
I missed those days. If I could remember exactly where the turnoff was, I would've gone there.
But I didn't. So I drove on.

The road went up hill.
Hardly any lights there. At some point, it was pitch black.
Narrow 2 lanes.
There were 2 narrow lanes, and the roads were winding.
With busses on the next lane, it was scary.
With the roads that were unfamiliar, it was scary.
Everytime I came to a place where the road was a little broader, where I could've attempted to turn back. . .
Part of me said "Do it, just turn back. You don't know where this is going."
Another part would say, "Just go."
So I just drove.
My palms were icy cold, despite the AC being on 1.

I drove through lonely roads, and unfamiliar kampungs, took a few wrong turnings because my eyes were too misty to read the Sign Boards and reached home 2 hours later.
Feeling a little calmer.

It's a start . . .

2009-01-09T09:35:00.000-08:00

So I went home for New Years. Amma was back from Brunei.

Of course, I never really realise how much I miss her Until I send her off at the Airport.

Or until I am blogging.

haisy. . . Miss you mums!

New Years morning started off healthy.

Papa prepared a nice spread for us all by himself.

A nice Mix of Salad, Vegetarian Burger Patty, Hash Brown and Omelets.

And of course a visit back home is never complete without the Dragon Fruit Juice.

Ok, so this is something we tried in India.

I've yet to find out the name of it. It's a snack.

It's a mixture of these nuts/beans shown below, with onions, tomatoes thinly chopped and some other ingredients we're not sure of yet.

So papa experimented it, and we're almost there paps. Keep trying. :)

So far I have been eating healthy, well, almost.

I've taken up a challenge.

While I was in India, I overdosed on tea and coffee. Only because it's the best!! Seriously. There's nothing like it. The hot drinks at the Ashram was the best. But if you were to go to any retaurants (or hotel, as the Indians call it), the tea and coffee is pretty good.

Why? Because its fresh cow's milk. I tell you it's magic. That's why cows are sacret to us I guess. . . :)

Oh, back the the challenge. Since my dad and sister witnessed my OD, dad's become concern about my sugar intake and my sister seems to think that I'm an addict. to hot drinks (she doesn't take any by the way). And she teases me, by saying that if I didn't want to do something or go somewhere, I could be bribed with Hot Drinks! The nerve Chinni!

So I have decided that the only form of hot drink I'll have is Japanese Green Tea.

There!

So I'm on day 9 today. I read somewhere, that if you wanted to give up a certain habit, just go on not doing it for 21 days and that's that. The 1st seven days were a bit difficult. Or was it because I was at the office and that's the only thing that keeps me going when I'm hungry? I don't know. Feels like I was suffering from "Hot Drinks Withdrawal Symptoms" or something.

But I'll make it through this 21 days, I will.

Since the last few months of 2008 was hectic with me travelling back and forth, I will spare January for Penang. And we'll see what comes up in February!

Happy 2009

2009-01-01T06:01:00.000-08:00

Happy Happy 2009 People!

2008 has been a mixed year.
But I'm blessed in many ways. . .
Looking only at the good. . .
And learning from the not so good.
I got to travel a lot. Langkawi, Kuching, Brunei, Sri Lanka (even if it was just for Trahnsit), India.
All in a years Travel. . .Not too bad.

I haven't really come up with specific Resolutions.
But I made 2 Lists, so far.
One of it is - My Ideal 2009.

So regardless of what the economy situation might be this year,
I open this chapter with with a positive outlook, and wish all my dear friends an awesome and fulfilling 2009.

Cheers!
G

Hit Again . . .

2008-12-16T21:12:00.000-08:00

Once again, the being alone syndrome hit me.

2 nights ago, I was down with fever.
At 1 am, despite the fan being switched off and being fully covered under the sheets, I was shiverring crazy.

These are the times among others, you really wish someone was next to you.

Maths & Science in English?

2008-12-16T19:21:00.000-08:00

While some people debate about whether or not Maths and Science should be thought in English in our schools, I have a story to tell.

Exactly a month ago today . . I was at the KLIA Airport, on my way to India. Flying via the Sri Lankan Airlines, the counters were manned by our locals. While my dad was at the counter busy checking in for 4 people, my sister and I were just standing there and observing our surroundings. The flight from KL would transit at Colombo for several hours before continuing its journey to Chennai. And it's only natural that apart from a handful of Malaysians, the rest of the passengers would be Sri Lankans (either Sinhalese or Tamil speaking) and Indians (mostly Tamil speakers, especially if they were local Chennaians, or perhaps some Hindi or Punjabi speaking folks). Of course to the naked eye of a Malay or Chinese person, All of the above would belong to 1 category; Orang India, a Malaysian Indian.

But if you were a Malaysian Born Indian, you would be able to differenciate these categories by the way they dress, speak, or the features of the Sri Lankans.

Ok.. so the point being this. . . After observing for a few minutes, we realised, to our horror, the idiots at the counter were speaking to the people checking-in, in Malay!!!! And then, they were getting frustrated, and had the "Orang India ni Tak Faham Bahasa ke?!" looks on their faces.I mean it's totally understandable that you cannot identify a non Malaysian Indian when you see one, but when you are actually staring at their Passports, doesn't that tell you something? Of course the old uncle who was checking in was blur, as he probably wasn't fluent in English either. But somehow with the show of numbers as to what time and pointing to some directions, he was ok.

Looks like our people are not only in need of some simple English Lessons, but some Common Sense lessons as well. Of wait, there are no lessons in that..... because it's COMMON SENSE.

In Chennai, the Auto Drivers sense that you are foreigners and would try to converse with you in broken but understandable English. While people working at the International Airport for god's sake are not able to converse in English or use common sense for that matter.

Makes you wonder doesn't it? What did they learn in school? So should Maths and Science be taught in English, or for starters, should English be taught in English?

Off for 2 weeks. . . !

2008-11-16T07:48:00.000-08:00

What was I thinking when I said Yes to Papa a few months ago?
Not too sure.

So I leave for India on the 17th November and will be back November 30th.
No regrets, but just still a bit confused.

This is going to be a fully spiritual trip.
Will be based at the Ashram (mostly).

Meditation 3 times a day.
Getting to meet Master, or maybe just see him.
"Expect Not"
If we are blessed to meet him we will.

No Bangalore, No Pondycherry this time.
Just Chennai.

I know there's a reason as to why I said yes . .
All's good. . . Just have Faith G . . .

Lisa Marie Clinch

2008-11-16T01:39:00.000-08:00

Lisa was a 11 year old girl I met, way back in 1996.
I was in New Zealand for a Jamboree.
Lisa and her family played host during my Pre Jamboree in Napier, Hawkes Bay.

As we arrived at the Napier Airport, I recall seeing families waiting, looking out at the 10 Malaysian Guides who just got off the plane waiting for their bags. I saw this girl on a wheel chair, holding a banner "Welcome Malaysian Girl Guides".

That girl was Lisa, and I later found out that I was going to live with her family before the Jamboree starts. Her parents Steve and Sharon and brother Phil were there to greet me as well. And I remember her mom saying, I hope you don't mind living in a caravan. We rented one by the beach for the summer... Imagine My excitement! Of course that left all the other girls jealous. . And I had no complaints.

The next few days was just awesome. The happy and very fun going family kept me in stitches the whole time. Steve was especially funny.

Lisa took a special liking for me, and the feeling was mutual. The red head had a cute pixie like face. We spent 9 days at camp. Though we were separated into different groups, we spotted each other, amongst the 35oo participants and managed spend time at one of the activities together, Arts and Craft. We made a dog called Harry McLarry, and we would sing Billy Ray Cyrus's Achy Breaky Heart . . . She had the cutest giggle, where she would cover her mouth.
We lost touch for a bit, and when I found her phone number, I only managed to speak to Sharon, as Lisa had moved out then. And not so long back I found her brother Phil on Facebook. I thought this was an easy way to get in touch with her. . . Finally. . .

Then I got a message in my Inbox from Phil . . .

Hi Gayathri,

Lisa's Big Brother Here.I'm sorry to have to tell you
Lisa passed away yesterday (Wednesday 12th of Novemebr 2208 @ 11:30am).

She slipped out of a chair on saturday and broke her leg (thigh bone).
She was in hospital awaiting surgery which was ment to happen on tuesday.
They had to wait as complications arose and she started forming fluid on the lungs.

By wednesday morning she couldn't get enough oxygen in so they had to put her on a breathing machine. She fought all the way but they lost her a 2nd time but she just
couldn't hang on any longer.

I know she touched many lives all over the world. I and everyone else
will miss her terribly.

Not sure if I'll be on here much in the near future but you can contact
me here or on my personal email ,if you need.

Thanks for being a friend to her I know she loved you and touched you in her
own little way.

Love her Big Bro Phil

I was completely devastated.
I never got to speak to her, or even mail her.
Phil's message brought tears to my eyes, especially the last line.
Maybe it was for the best that I never got to speak to her.
Maybe it was His way to make it that much more easy for me.
I don't know.

Rest in Peace Sweet girl.
I know you're in Good hands, in His hands.

Love you Lots Lisa Clinch. . . .

Singapore 08

2008-11-11T06:38:00.001-08:00

A little Piece of Singapore

Heaven in a Can - Badam Milk

With Jenn @ My Sareke..

Meeting Aw after 8 years . .
@ Sheng Ling @ Shane Lynch?

Going topless in Singapore. .
Hey, read what's on the bus. .

Awesomest Weekend Yet . . .

2008-11-11T06:25:00.000-08:00

Last weekend was AWESOME!
Ok, maybe I say that or feel that everytime I don’t have to be in Penang.
But last week really was.

It’s been ages since I went to Singapore. 1st time was when I was eleven, for a day trip. And the twice after that was usually for a Meditation gathering. We would stay over night and get back as soon as it was over.

Last Saturday, I took a flight from LCCT – Changi. Technically, this was my 1st time travelling on my own. Lets not count the multiple Penang – LCCT trips. Changi looks cool. Get out, get your bag, there’s a sitting area and then a Visitors Browsing and Information Corner. Informed Jenn (an old friend from college, now a lecturer herself in a college there) that I had arrived. She had just sent off her boyfriend and had asked me to come over to where she was.

I took a cab from Changi – Joo Seng. Of course, after hearing lots of stories from people or friends there, not at all surprised to see very disciplined drivers and very clean streets. Asides from the roads, my eyes kept looking at the Cab Meter. . . .! Every $ as it increases, in my head was X 2.48 in my head in order to convert it to RM. My stomach was in knots! of course I had no plans for shopping in Singapore. . . The whole purpose of that trip was to watch Russell Peters Live!

Jenn gave me a nice big Squeezy hug and said, “You are finally here, to see Russell Peters!” Yes I am! Had some hawker food at one of the food court. The place was nicer, brighter, and cleaner than any of the hawker joints back home. But that’s it, the food . . . . No one beats Malaysian Food! We have the best of all cuisines . . . Asian Cuisines . It’s true!

Darts @ AUPE
After dinner, we headed to this club house AUPE. It is usually Jenns hangout place (for darts and beer), with her friends, Vijay, Nirmala, and both our former lecturer, Mr. Murali Kandasamy. I was nervous about seeing this man. Why? He was my former Contract law lecturer, I admired the fact that he was once of the best lecturers I knew, he knew his stuff and knew how to teach it well. For some reason, as a student I was too nervous about talking to him face to face, and the feeling that night was the same. Jenn must have read my mind, because she told me, “G, you’re going to see a different Murali.”

We arrived at AUPE, which was along Paya Lebar Road. Greeted by Vijay, whom I was meeting only for the second time. And both times, he was high. I asked Jenn, if I would ever get to see him sober. She burst into her usuall liggle (that’s laughter and giggle – really reminds you of a kid). And she promised, “G, I promise to show you the sober Vijay before you leave.”

Mr. Murali greeted me with a nice firm handshake, and later asked, “So Gayathri, you came all the way, to see Russell Peters?” If that club house was any brighter, he would’ve been able to see me blush! Of course, Vijay and Nirmala were just as amazed, and a little envious J. I mean, they live in Singapore. And here comes a girl, travelling from Penang-KL-Singapore, just to see Russell Peters and go back!

From AUPE, we walked back to the hostel Jenn lives in at Mount Vernon. Located directly opposite the Gurkha Contingent Camp. The hostel was a nice little cozy room for 2 (just nice if you are a student sharing). But for an adult, Jenn did the wise thing by taking up the entire room for herself. We chatted till 4 am before finally dozing off.

Little India
The next day, I opted for the ultimate experience (well, for me at least). Little India on a Sunday afternoon. Now this is what I call Little India. It really did feel like I was in Chennai or something. Because 90% of the Indians seen there, were actually from India. Jenn was telling me how the locals don’t really come over to Little India on a Sunday, because they are intimidated by the large number of Indians who hangout over there. But Jenn and I, we spent at least 3 years or more hanging around Petaling Street. So this was nothing for us.

We had Dhum Briyani, at Briyani Hutt. And my 1st cup of Bru Coffee there in Singapore. Briyani was good, coffee was even better. Jenn later took me to the Mustafa Center. I was in awe. I mean this is your One-Stop India in Singapore! There’s the clothing section, household section, cold storage section, and every damn thing Indian section! I was in heaven, almost. There was something I craved for. Something I could get almost anywhere if I were in India. We found the cold storage section. I finally spotted it. In a yellow can labeled, Badham Drink (which is actually Almond Milk). I found my heaven in a can. Jenn tasted it and took a pause. “G, it’s like liquid Paalkova (Indian Sweet)”. I could tell, she was also in heaven!

We later headed to Bugis Street, Singapore’s answer to our Petaling Street. Only cleaner, less stinkier, and more space to walk. Go figure lah!

Later that evening, I had a date with an old friend. Sheng Ling, or affectionately known as Aw, which is also her surname. My closest pal when I was in Nilai College. We were meeting for the 1st time in 8 years! She looks the same, almost. Just a little weight, and that really makes her look good. Aw, Jenn and I spent almost 3 hours having dinner and talking about old times. That was so awesome.

A little on-my-own time
The next morning, being Monday and all, Jenn had to work. We had breakfast near her workplace, joined by Mr.Murali. They gave me some suggestions on what I could do to kill a few hours. After all Russell Peters Live was only at about 8 pm.

So from Middle Road, I took a slow walk to Dhoby Ghaut, and took the MRT to City Hall. That’s where the Sun Tec Mall is and the show was also to be held over there. Personally I prefer actual shopping to window shopping. I consoled myself by saying “Nothing we can’t get in Malaysia”.

I finally got to the Hop-On Tours Counter. Decided to check out some brochures and then walk out to the waiting area. This company running the tour was called Duck Tours. They had this tour boat with wheels, so it goes on both land and in water. With a big yellow duckie in front. Talk about seeking attention! I was not prepared to get my clothes wet. So I opted for the 1 hour bus tour. It cost me S$13, and here’s the catch – No Hopping Off. Hop On and Off was only allowed if you took the full day tour which would cost you S$24.

RUSSELL PETERS Live!
The highlight of the week, month, quarter, year! Ok. . maybe not year, then again, maybe year.There’s just too much to write about this and I might never end up publishing this blog.
But let me try. . .
The Rock Auditorium, that's where the show was held.
How did I spot the place? How can you miss a bunch of brown brothers and sisters? I had to wait for Deepak, Jasmin and his cousin. . Meanwhile, I felt like a school girl going for some boy band concert. hehe.. Deepak, I managed to put on that Control Macho Face didn't I ;)
Anyways, When Russell Peters comes up on stage . . .Wooo Hoooo!
I mean, its one thing watching him on your laptop once you've copied his show from some "downloading bastards" as Russell himself would say. But really another to be there and see him in Flesh, and hear everything real time.
But let me just put it this way, I couldn’t get enough of him. So went back to Jenn’s room that night and watched the DVD I bought for S$35 J. . .That’s what I call SATISFACTION GUARANTEED!

Packed Months Ahead. . .

2008-10-22T22:04:00.000-07:00

Ooh!
Deepavali is almost here. It's tomorrow!

For the 2nd time in 4 years, I won't be with my family.
1st time was in 2005, I celebrated my Deepavali in Arizona.
Wasn't much of a celebration though.
Despite having a couple of Desi friends over there, it was just another day.
No baju baru, no muruku, no Nei Urundei (ghee balls), no chippi.

This year it will be different.
I will be celerating it at Yasho's place.
Aunty is just really excited to have me around this time.
1st Deepavali in Penang.
Got meself 2 gorge Sarees!

1st week of November, off to Singapore. . .
To see RUSSELL PETERS!
Wooo Hooo!
Can't wait.

3rd week of November, India. . .
I was really skeptical, and initially told papa I won't be able to make it due to work and bla bla bla. Much to papa's disappointment.
I don't what happened after that.
This little voice in my head told me. . ."Go! Just Go!"
Worried that I might be too late, and papa would've booked the flight. . . I hesitated.
But decided to just try my luck.
I got him on the day he was going to make the payment.
I saw the joy on his face.
There won't be sightseeing this time.
We'll be spending 12 days there with Papa and Chinni.

1st week of December, Jegan's wedding Reception in KL.
Can't miss that since I'm missing the wedding despite his 6 months notice :S.
* all due to that voice in my head that said JUST GO!

Prem will be back from UK for a break early December.
Amma comes back for a break in December

Good to have lot's of things to look forward to!
And in between all that hectivness I hope to have some time for my self and plan for plan for next year ;)
I'm excited!

Haisy! And then there was another. . .

2008-10-22T21:20:00.000-07:00

Another what?
Another Interview.

Ok. . So I've been trying to leave Penang for a while now.
And CyberJaya would be an Ideal place to be since I hate KL.

1st Interview a few months ago was with MDeC.
3 phone interviews, 2 face to face interviews, and 1.5 months later, they decided to hire someone internally.

Today was my interview with DHL Apac IT Services.
After a 1 hour wait at the lobby, and a 10 minutes chat with the hiring guy. . . It's a NoGo.

Not that I need a new job right now, but I just want to move closer to home for a few months before I move further away.

3rd one might be the one?

And another one Ties the Knot . . .

2008-10-22T21:04:00.000-07:00

Was back home last weekend for a dear friends wedding.

Zairin. . .

My Bas Sekolah, Kawan Setaman, also part of the JSD 95 geng that drove the teachers Crazy!

And the Head Prefect hated us... hehe!

Ahh. . Good Ol' Days.

Now it's just the other Gayathri (GP) and Me, next in line.

Congrats girl!

That's her by the way. Syok gile berposing.

Never been the poser in our group, but i guess that baju Pengantin just brings out the poser in you! ;)

Facts About Brunei

2008-10-08T09:25:00.000-07:00

- Petrol is dirt Cheap! 0.53 cents a Litre

- Cars are cheap!

- It's like Kedah, only without the Sawah Padi.

- It's Clean

- People don't honk there (unlike Here. Learn People ! Learn! )

- There's no booze unless you go to the boarder and get some from Sarawak. (tuak rocks!)

- Not much of a life there

- Chinese are everywhere

- So are the Indians

My Brunei Experience

2008-10-05T05:26:00.000-07:00

Well, as we arrived at the Brunei Airport. . . I was expecting something that would take my breath away.

Nope! Nothing very impressive, I still think our KLIA rocks big time. . .
Yes, with the Malaysia Boleh Spirit and What not!
But Seriously, nothing Grand.
I have already been warned about the reset of the country if not for the Airport at least.
So I wasn't expecting much when I stepped out of th eairport.

As we were in a long queue trying to clear the imigresen check, Chinni spotted Amma waiting for us..... Nun di sana! She was already looking out for us. . . Grabbed our bags and headed to the Exit.. There she was! Amma was all Smiles! Ear to ear. . . HUGGS for all of us... Could hear her excitement just from that smile.. Not see it.. But hear it!

Aunty T had loaned Amma her car for the time being. We headed straight for Dinner. An Indian Restaurant - Rangmahal located at Tutung. Close to where the Hotel La Galleria was. People running the restaurant were Indian Muslims from India.

Back to the Hotel, was nice place. Small and cozy.

As we entered, Amma who;s been there for 2 months close to 3, was already familiar with (I dare say) the entire hotel staff. Noor greeted us at the Reception with a huge smile, like she's known us for long. Then Adi came with smile and got all our bags. (I think I saw Amma actually give them some duit Raya in a green packets) Since they were off the next few days. She did it discreetly knowing well that we were going to nag her again for Unnecessarily doing the Mother Christmas thing.

Next day, though it was already Hari Raya in Malaysia and the rest of the Raya Celebrating countries, Brunei had to do it differently of course. They were celebrating it a day later.

Amma had to go to Uni. While Amma and Chinni went ahead, Papa and I decided to venture out a little. Discovered a Chinese Vegetarian Restaurant and had breakfast there.

Walked around and discovered, a supermarket that reminded me or a very run down version a Parkson Ria that once occupied a corner in Seremban.

But listen to this!

I was there for about 4 and a half days.

Not a single honk!

People just wait patiently in the car.

You want to cross the road? The car waits for you!

I mean coming from Malaysia, we tend to wait for the car to passby before we go, the few bold "The Road is Mine, You Can Wait" one would probably show their hands indicating that they are going to cross and go.

But here, in Bandar Seri Begawan, and the rest of Brunei, they wait !

Hello!!!

I'm not used to this! Not in an Asian / ASEAN country anyways.

Wait a minute! I could get used to this. . .

The Begining of a beautiful. . . And Boring journey , if I may say so myself.

So the next few days went something like this.

Aunty Eileen and Uncle Super, parents of my kindy buddy Adrian. They went to UPM and did TESL with Amma, moved here 9 years ago.

Aunty Eileen makes the yummiest Banana Chips! Not too salty or oily.
I told Amma, "Make sure she has them Chips for me!"
And she did. The next day, despite being told that we will visit them, she comes over with a tin full of her "Valakka Chips" (Banana Chips).
I was in heaven!
She looked at me and said, "Exact carbon copy of Sanda!" :)
But we already know that.

The next day, Uncle Super took us to Seria.
To go see the "Nodding Donkeys"
What?
What's that?
Why do we want to see Donkeys Nodd?
So it appears that the (oil) Pumpjack looks like the head of a donkey, well nodding. . .
That was an interesting tour.
The drive from BSB to Seria takes about an hour.

The houses surrounding Seria are mostly temporary structures. If they find oil there, then out you go. But this is the Brunei government we are talking about, and I am sure the residents will be paid well for it.

Later that afternoon, a short tour.

There was the Kampung Air (Water Village).. Ok - that's all I remember.

There's this mosque in Town that looks really beautiful.

Being a Muslim state, that's probably the only structure they think is worth spending the B$ on I suppose. Oh, and the Palace. Gold Plated Dome! That's where the rest of it goes to.

The People in Brunei.
In someway, I think no one place and be refered to as the Melting Pot anymore.
This place is full of foreigners.
Philipinos, Indonesians, Indians, Chinese, and more . . .they are all here.

Back at the Hotel. . .
There were people from various countries waiting to meet Madam Sanda's family. Yeap, they call Amma that.

Dr Khairuddin, lecturer from Indonesia.

Dr Sugumaran, skin specialist from Kerala, India.

Another Lecturer from Kenya. And a bunch of other people, I've lost track of who's who.

That whole floor was occupied by foreign workforce brought in by the Brunei Government.

Probably at some point in the future, people like these might end up with citizenships and eventually become locals, or at least their children would be.

Visit to Uncle Super and Aunty Eileen's.

They invited us over for lunch. Nice home cooked meal with Paavaka Poriyal (mine and chinni's fav)! It's fried bitter-gourd.

Got to see tons of Photos of Adrian, who is an Engineer in Australia with an Australian fiancee now. My mom and his dad would always tease us about that 1 photo of us in Kindy Uniform. Tadika Ho. The only memory I ever had of Adrian at that Kindy was this. . . He would cry like a girl not wanting to go! :)

A little shopping at Yayasan, somewhat Mall - like, but according to Uncle Super - It's not a mall.

Shopping. Nothing you cannot get here in Malaysia. If you earned in B$ it might be a little cheap. But if you were to convert, I'd rather shop here at FOS :).

The last night, Aunty T was back from her New York Tour. Took us to Gadung Mall to do some last minute shopping. aka Big clothes Shopping for me.

Then dinner at Tandoor.com. Nice posh looking place.
Was like a nice reunion, with Aunty T, Uncle Super and Aunty Eileen.

The next day was lunch at Aunty T's. Doesn't matter what all the other dishes were. She had some nice Big Juicy Prawns!
And to top it all up was Amma's Chicken Rendang.
This was our Deepavali for this year. The 4 of us together. This Deepavali, Amma won't be here and I won't be going back home. And the chicken rendang is a once a year Deepavali dish. Right there at Aunty T's flat was our 2008 Deepavali.
Amma packed some back for us.
I just finished the tupperware she gave me today, savoured every last bit!

So that's that. Not much about Brunei really.
But that doesn't mean I wouldn't go there again.

If you want a laid back life, and make $$. Brunei is the place.
As long as you have a good circle of friends with you, you can survive!

BSB - Here I come

2008-09-30T01:37:00.000-07:00

In 2 days, 3 different Aiports, 4 times.
Thank goodness there was no further delay last night.

Here I am back at LCCT about an hour and a half before we leave for BSB. By now you should know BSB does not stand for Back Street Boys! :P

LCCT feels a bit Puduraya right now.
Not because of the dodgy dungeon surrounding, or the awful smell.
Only because its Super packed! With Raya just a day away, it's the Balik Kampung mad rush.

Not really sure what to expect in Brunei.
But here goes. . .

29th September - Cold and Stuck

2008-09-29T08:30:00.000-07:00

I am Stuck at the Penang Airport.
My flight to KLIA has been pushed back by 2 hours.
Due to bad weather, the flight fr Kuching was not able to depart on time.

The Nando's has been replaced by McD's.
Nice dim lighting, nice wooden floor. The kind Eric would give your living room in Casa Impian.
Then you find the nice cushion seats stained with ketchup. .

Against my own will the other side of me wanted some warm fries.
Got myself a nice Fillet - O - Fish , fries and Nice hot cup of Tea.
To my Disappointment, FOF was not as good as it usually is, fries not as warm as it normally would be. Thank goodness tea tasted like tea.

Can't wait to get back to my nice, grand, awesomest, most confortable bed!
The one Chinni and I fight over everytime we're at home.

And tomorrow it's off to BSB. .
Bandar Seri Bhag...Begawan :)

28

2008-09-29T08:09:00.000-07:00

28. . .
No, it's not the se se se sequel to Jack Bauer's 24.

That's my age on the 19th of Sept this year.
This year, I decided I didn't want to be in Penang.
This year, I decided to spend it at home, with Papa and Chinni.
Missing Mum a bit.. But she sent a card from Brunei.
I carry it with me where ever I go.

For the 3rd year in a row, Suresh sends me a bouquet of Roses.
Pink ones this year. . No Teddy bears this year.. like the last 2.

Papa's probably come to terms that for as long as I'm in Seremban,
I'd get a bouquet every 19th September... :)

I never got any Bouquets from my ex's.
Whatever you do, don't get me flowers. - That's what I would tell then.
Not that I hate them.
I love flowers.
Just hate the fact that they would eventually dry up and have to be thrown away.

Anyways, the 28th was a nice and simple affair.. Just Lunch and Dinner with the family and lots of TV.

Bandar Sri Bhagavan!

2008-07-30T07:38:00.000-07:00

Ok Ok... So its actually Bandar Seri Begawan.

Amma flew off to Brunei Last Sunday.
And it hit me the most when I came back home.
It was really really quiet.

She's always talking.
Either to me or on the phone, or telling me to do something.
There's always the constant chatter chatter chatter!

And I miss it already.

She would call daily, and I don't expect that now.
So there. . I miss her calls.

Typical huh?

Well, I get to plan a trip in October for Raya!

Rainforest World Music Festival 2008, Sarawak Cultural Village

2008-07-20T02:39:00.000-07:00

We're going to the Fest!
I was as excited as a little kid would be going to the Fun Fair.
The RWMF is a yearly event that goes on for 3 days Officially.
This being the 1st time for the Entire Gang of 10, Anita arranged for us to be there for Day 2.

Tickets to the Show

We Travelled via the Shuttle from the Holiday Inn to the Cultural Village, piggy and I.
So here's 2 words to describe Kuching and whatever parts of Sarawak I've seen :
CLEAN & GREEN!

I have not seen so much Green in my live and SO CLEAN!
Clean by Asian Standards (Not Including Singapore).
Oh, what am I talking about?!

Damn clean by Malaysian Standards!
Penang just seemed like a Junkyard Island at that point of time.
Unless there is a not so clean part of Sarawak Hiding somewhere.
But hey, this is what I saw and I liked it.

For a good 15 minutes or so, I didn't see any houses, housing areas etc.
Then I saw a row of old houses.
Reminded me of the kind of Houses you see here (peninsular), and you know your grandparents were still young the time those houses were built!

The cars, the traffic, the laidbackness, all reminded me of how it was 10 - 15 years back.
And 80% or more of the cars on the road were Malaysian Cars.

After almost an hour we finally got there.
And the crowd! My, oh my.

At the entrance we were greeted by some traditional Sarawakian Music and some traditional dance going on.

The Entrance to the Fest

The Celcom X Pack Dancers

As we took our little map to the Cultural village and moved on, there were many many stalls.
The 1st stall had accessories. At the counter was a Camera dude, and I heard some guy with an accent talking to the camera while interviewing the girls who were incharge of the stall.

Piggy and I were looking around, when the Camera dude walked towards her! Yes, she was being Interviewed by that VJ from that Channel V. Ok, since I've got no TV at home, it's been ages since I watched any Programmes on V.
SO who was this DJ? No Clue.
And if I didn't have a clue who he was, I know Piggy was way off !
But that Lucky Devil!

(I later found out he was VJ Dom)
Oh my gosh! Those arms and his chest!
Slurrp! (Control yourself G)

Piggy was just too obvious with her Deer caught in the Head Light Look everytime he asked her something. WHY NOT ME!! :)
Though I tried to help her out from where I was (and staying out of camera range).

Piggy and VJ Dom

After that we moved on.
An arts and craft bazaar was going on as well. Items from various coutries.
There was this stall selling Scarfs from India. Price ranged from RM200 - RM 400!
Seriously people! By 2 years of Deepavali Suits don't come up to that much!

I figured I'd just stroll through the place and not get anything.
We came to this huge eating area with Food and Bev tents and a whole tent selling - - HEINEKEN!

I mean, wow!

One of the traditional houses turned to workshops for the Fest.

This place you see right now, became the site of the crime later that night!
On the left is the Main Stage and the Tree Stage.
Performances would alternate between the 2 stages.

1st performance my a Bunch of Kelabit Youths - Kan'id.
These kids really rocked it!
Playing the Kealbit Blues and one of the traditional songs! Man, we were moving it and shakin it!

So the 1st performance was at the main stage.
Piggy, Kavi, Anita, Kalpana and I plopped ourselves at a corner.
Later we realised it was a bad idea, since the crowd decided to stand right in front of the stage despite the fact that it was covered with soggy sand, about to turn to mud all over again thanks to the rain on the 1st Night.

We decided to heck it and stood up as well.
The next performance was by another Sarawakian band at the Tree Stage.
We walked about 20 metres to that Stage with our slippers sinking and getting stuck each time we took a step.
That's it!
KAKI AYAM it will be!!

Let's play, guess whose butt?
At some point some left their slippers in the mid while piggy kavi and me decided to leave it at some corner so we could go get it later. (which didn't happen by the way)

Best part was Anita taking her slippers all the way back to the hotel and threw it away there!

Thanen was already at the tree stage high on Booze, music, and erm whatever else he can be high on just pulled us girls towards the crowd and the stage!
The music was awesome, the crowd just moving to the music!
Who needs booze?! The music was good enough!

Thanen high on Coke? or Tuak?

And if the 2 local bands didn't rock it enough. . .
The next group sure did it for me.

Beltaine from Poland.

They played Irish and Scottish Tunes.The crowd went wild!I had half a mind to throw my bag away so I could do the River Dance!Oh wait, I don't know how!Basically the crowd just went with it. . . Jumping and Dancing anyway they could!It was ELECTRIC!

Followed my a very mellow Palestine group.I was restless. That was more of a lullaby and Kavi was groaning.
Kalps and Anita went to get us some. . . . . TUAK!Oh ya! that famous Rice Wine.Damn!
Half a cup was enough to get you somewhere . . . It had a slight alcohol / sweetness to it.

After downing the Tuak, we decided No band was going to put us to sleep yet and went to get more Tuak.
Piggy and I bought a 600 ml bottle for RM10.
Darn cheap considering the fact the Cups we had earlier cost RM15 each.
We then realised ours was watered down.

I dont want to imagine what would have happend to Piggy if it wasn't watered down.
I was at a level, but managed to hold it all the way till I got to the hotel! Phew!
Piggy was going on and on and on talking!

We hung out at one of the Rumah Panjang with a huge croud and TV so we could see the next performing band.

All in all, twas a good trip.
And we're sure as hell going next year! :)

All 3 nights!

Why I Miss Home

2008-07-16T04:18:00.000-07:00

I miss Home. . .

I've Always convinced myself That it's comfortable beeing away from home, so I get all the attention when I go back once in a while.

End of June, I took a week off so I can spend time at home and be with Amma for her birthday.

Things are a little different now. Papa's retired. Has more time to prepare healthy food..
Gives me more lecture about healthy living, and Unlike before, I actually listen to him.

The more I go home and the Longer I stay home, the more I don't want to come back to Penang.

Such a drag living in a house with strangers.

I have a lovely bed at home, not sure what the heck I come back to Penang for!

To sleep on that awful mattress?

Oh yea, to work and get paid. . . sigh...

Dragon Fruit Juice - Blended by Papa at 6 am when I got back fr Penang.

Breakfast for Papa Cini and Me - Prepared by Papa. Love the colours.

Best Star Resort, Langkawi

2008-07-04T18:44:00.000-07:00

My 2nd Langkawi trip this year!

The 1st was enjoyable, I had an awesomeb time with GP (my namesake).
Island hopping, dinner, the little fib we told Jeya about how he got pissed drunk and was Pole dancing at the lampost, in actuall fact he just went to bed and couldn't remember anything! (He still thinks its true by the way, and G and I intend to maintain that for the next few years)

Thanks to my previous Experience, this time around we booked Best Star Resort again. For a room with all the basic needs and nothing posh, RM120 for a family room was a good price.

Comes with 2 double bed. And an extra single mattress would cost RM20 per night.

So the 10 of us (Vky & Sha, Nilesh & Vim, Viji & Prasath, Edgar, Vicknesh, Ema and Me) took 2 rooms and additional 2 single beds.

The View from the Hotel Side of Best Star.

Talk a bout the ride that really really needed to be pimped!
Yes, we got that ride.
An old beaten up van, it's once upon a time AC was now only producing Hot Air!

PIMP MY RIDE!!! PLEASE!!!!!

Almost all the guys took turns to drive the Van.
Edgar had Massive problem with the 3rd Gear, but Vicknesh managed to figure out the trick behind that. Ema who had so much fun giving the all the drivers a though time about being lousy with the Van, finally got his turn. And as it turns out, wasn't so bad!

After Lunch - The boys did what they have been waiting to do for the last 2 months.

This picture will tell you a THOUSAND WORDS! Yes, it will!

These were bottles from Room 1. Didn't even include the The Baileys, Corona and Hootchies already stored in Room 2's Refridgerator! How about that!?

While the folks of room 1 started off with one of their Pre Pre Pre Pre Warm up sessions, I decided to take a walk to the Beach. Not that I am a beach person or anything, I stay away from Beaches in Penang, hate getting sand between my toes, hate having to change in and out of swim suits just so I can dip. But for some reason, it was different here. Probably the fact that I spent RM 105 on that 2 way Fery RIDE! :)

Eventually the rest came over after covering themselves with sun block!

Me? I am too Indian for Sun Block! Please!

A game of football by the beach with Edgar as our Goalie, and soaking like hippos, trying to drown Vicky, and temporary body part enhancements for some!

We tried to hog the entire beach! After all Euro season was on.
Vicknesh was trying to be a Hero and ended up kicking Vky's Shin of Steel instead and Injured his foot, later that night had to use Ema and Edgar as his walking stick.

Viji's dream finally came through, and Prasath too... for a few minutes!

Now that!

I don't know if that's a dream come through or not, but this African dude watching us put that together wasn't too thrilled about it!

So much for SAY MY NAME! !Xobile...

Dinner at The Cactus.
All those who ordered the Spicy fried rice, were raving about it!

Let me not comment on what happened that night. It was fun and it was funny!
No qualms about being the only single girl among the 4. We had 3 couples and 4 singles.
Though I did end up babysitting the Childish Drunk and the Crying Drunks.

The next day - apart from Island Hopping again, there was the Cable Car ride up to the "Billa" Bridge.
I only call it the Billa Bridge because the others did, yet to watch that movie though.

That night was followed by Some nice Seafood, Thanni, game of Grandmaster and ZZZZZZZ. .

The following morning, I simply couldn't resist.
Took a shower, got ready while everyone else was stonned and sleepy, woke them before i left the room...

Took a stroll down the beach.

Beautiful Sand, Sea and Clouds.
Followed by Breakfast at the Red Tomato.

I still dream about that breakfast!
I do have pics of what we had that morning.

For some reason, this blog has stopped letting me upload pics.
I will try some other alternatives eh?

Headed home later that day. . .

Happy 21st Cinni!

2008-06-18T09:30:00.000-07:00

How fast time flies!

16th June. . .
It was on this day 21 years ago. . .

I still remember that day.

I was 7 years old and anxiously waiting at home with Amuma.

And then the phone rang.

It was papa, and he said we got another baby girl!

I was totally excited.

Papa said he would come fetch Amuma and I in the evening.

Of course while waiting, we wanted to inform Apupan.

And the funny thing was, neither Amuma nor I remembered what the phone number was!

We went to the hospital in the evening.

There were 2 babies.

I immediately recognised our towel.

And this baby with a pink tag on her wrist was wrapped in it.

It was you Cinni!

But for some reason you looked as pink and as chinese as the baby next to you, and I had to ask papa which one was my sister!

21 years since that day!

I know we keep saying time flies. . .

But it doesn't... It passes by just the way it should.

I know this blog is a bit late. . Bye 2 days. .

But It's never to late to say this.. . .

Moli loves you Cinni!

Big Tight Squeezy Huggs!

Moli 'n Cinni together back in the days Amma used to dress us up in same clothes! :)

The PC Pal Program - Finally Launched

2008-05-25T07:22:00.000-07:00

The launch is finally over!
(PC Pal - similar to the PenPal Concept. Only differecence is the kids use PC now, and hence the name PC Pal. It is a community program and the objective is to help the kids learn and help the school get some $$)

May 6 - Chatter and Squeals of 150 school kids echoed through the autitorium, cafe, and mail lobby of PG 12!

The preparation towards the launch was hectic I thought. Simply because I couldn't aux out for meetings. I had to multi task between chats and joining the bridge for the meetings...

The headache of harrassing the the teacher in charge for the lists of students, the coordination...

The School I was coordinating, Minden Heights had 124 kids who were hyper active, while the kids from the other school were more passive...

Oh My GOD!

What a handful, what an earful, gosh!

A few people, namely Nithi and Pary swore they were not going to have kids!

he he he...

That was funny... Simply because, I wanted to tell them this; "Relax dudes, It's not like you're gonna have 124 in one go! And neither are you capable of it!"
LOL!

I so had to control myself..

Anyway, my Pal had this for her email ID - Aku Perempuan.
(wak - wak -wak)
Alamak! What have I gotten myself into?
Surely, I hoped we wouldn't have to end up communicating in BM despite the program requirement to communicate in English.
So, I took a deep breath and sent her my 1st email.
From what I see, her English is ok, if only she wrote something more than 1 word or 1 phrase answers...

Anyways, here's a photo of the entire team at the launch.

The Minden Heights Kids Arrive, (at the correct building after the bus dropped them off at the wrong building!)

The kids with no mentors - CORNERED ME @ the cafe the minute they found out I had the Pairing List!

One for the ablum . . PC Pal Launch 20008 by the Malaysia IT GPTW team.

Marissa Said the Darnest Thing!

2008-05-18T00:29:00.000-07:00

Kids are really Cute.. Such a joy, when they are kids.

I know this because my mom would always tell my younger sister to "Grow Up Slowly". And she being 7 years younger to me, did just that. Took her time and continues to be 7 years younger to me. I guess what mom wanted was a cute kid running about the house, being cute.

We all outgrow that stage at some point... Heck, I wish I was the cute kid (yes, I was reeeaaly cute), whoose cheek everyone pinched and adored still. With skin as smooth as a baby's bottom, that heart melting smile.. Oh wait.. I still have that smile ;).

Now, now, before you say anything, let me clear this . . . I've been told I have that awesome smile. I am not blowing my own saxaphone...! Then again, who else's would I blow? - Deeps, don't even think of answering that!

My dear friend Ed and his wife Liana's got 2 lovely angels (soon to be 3)!

Woo hoo... Another virgo on the way ;)

Katherine was about 4 when I met her and Marissa was just a baby.

Recently Ed was telling me about how Marissa's growing up really fast.

So here's what happened.

Liana was getting Marissa dressed and noticed something.

So she asked, "Marissa, did you colour your underware?"

Marissa said, "No, Mommy"

Liana, "I think you did, because this wasn't there"

Marissa, "No I didn't Mommy because no one was around when I did it"

G - ROTFLMAOUncontrollably...

With Katherine
and
Marissa
in 2005

A more recent Photo of the Girls. . . Huggs!

What if . . . ?

2008-05-14T11:54:00.000-07:00

Have you ever wondered if you missed the boat?
If that was the Bloody Boat and you missed it?

What if . . .
What if, I hadn't said no that day 5 years ago?

Just because my heart didn't skip a beat at the time, did it mean it would never?
What if I wasn't afraid of commitment then?

Would it have been different?
Or are we just better off as friends?

What if . . . ?

My Materialistic Weekend !!!

2008-05-14T11:45:00.000-07:00

So last weekend was my was the weekend I decided splurge!

I bought a pair of Ipanemas and an Canon Ixus 70!
Still haven'e gotten the chance to Play with my new Toy Yet...

Home to post some pics soon!

Life Hits You Hard on the Face When . . .

2008-05-14T11:08:00.000-07:00

You realise there's no one to Stick a Salon Plus on your back!

- Note : This is not a whinny Blog. Just a fact I realised! -

I've been having this massive back ache (upper back) since Saturday, that eventually started to spread slightly up my neck and towards my left hand. Also at some point, I felt the pain on my chest. Almost like someone punched me from the back and their hand came out front!

I know that was a gross way to put it, but that's the closest it comes to how I felt.

So what hit me?
Being alone. . .

I have been on Penang for over 4 years now, almost completely single. Most friends here have families or partners. Till about a year ago, there was Yasho, and Zurina @ Jap Freak. They are both in KL now. Vicknesh has been busy with family stuff and his MBA studies. Yen's been burried with payroll work.

So going to the movies, hanging out at Starbucks, going to Anandha Bhavan for Lunch / Dinner has completely been a ME AFFAIR. Which I have no complains about. Oh, except when the Orang Orang India Sibuk at Anandha Bhavans keep looking at the Indian girl sitting at the corner (Me Lah!), reading her book while sipping her Chaaya or sometimes Ginger Tea (kurang manis - but I have come to accept the fact that it doesn't apply to our people la! Sugar is Sugar! Take it or leave it!).

Then I got that terrible back ache!
Bending your hands 135 degrees and placing it on your back is one thing.
But trying to find the spot that hurts and trying to stick that plaster, that's another story!
Obviously, it's nothing like hooking your bra!
Since I came to the Office after buying the Plaster, asking my cube mate Mohgan is definitely not an option. No way am I going to let that Man-U paws of his touch my back! Not that I would let his Liverpool or All Black paw (if he had one) touch my back either!
(ehem, and by the way - Deeps! Where that Poster you've been meaning to give me for the Cube ah?)

And at that point, I realised that I was in fact Alone.
Sure come to work, there are colleagues and friends.
Pick up my phone, there are numbers to dial and friends to chat with.
But who's with me?
Not mom, not dad, not my sis. As much as they do want me close to them, I choose to be here still.
No partner / lesbo partner / boyfriend / husband / companion.
At first, that wasn't by choice. Now, I am just used to the fact that I don't have them in my life and it's fine.

Eventually I got Gobby to do the Plaster Sticking for the 1st time, and managed to do it on my own the next few.

So at the end, I actually managed.
But still couldn't help wonder, what if it was more complicated than just sticking a plaster on your back?
What if . . .

You Know You've Been . . .

2008-05-14T10:59:00.000-07:00

With the same company too long when you type :

http://google.intel.com/ - and realise it doesn't exist!

Lawak Bodoh April 2008

2008-05-04T07:21:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Ram - my friend from college, I get a monthly Dose of Lawak Bodoh's (Dumb Jokes) from him.
This was what I got for April, as dumd as it was, it did crack me up...

Antara banyak banyak Beruk,
Beruk mana yang paling Gay?

Braise yourself la...

BERUK BEGMAUNTEN! - Yea you got it... BROKEBACK MOUNTAIN!

Sheesh! Just what I needed.. Thanks Dude!

April 19 2008, 10.15 pm

2008-04-19T23:51:00.000-07:00

April 19 2008, 10.15 pm

So here I am sitting in my room, 3 frozen chapattis, G’s Tuna Special, and an Unsweetened Knudsen’s Grapefruit later.

Had dinner while watching Scarlett Johansen’s The Nanny Diaries.I’ve watched that movie for the umpteenth time, and still don’t get bored. That took me back to the early part of today.Had lunch with a friend whom I’ve not met up with in a while, Mindy as I affectionately call her.

As usual, we ladies started talking. Talking about life. Among others we started talking about marriage. Love and Arranged.She’s married to Deeps, also a friend of mine. Theirs is a love marriage. She was telling me about how she can’t imagine people at this day and age getting into an arranged marriage.

And about having kids. How ready are you? Will you ever be ready? And when they come, what will you have to do to make sure they have the best? What will you sacrifice? Your career, your freedom, your relationship with your husband.

Not that I am totally qualified on the topic, considering the fact that I am not in a relationship, and neither is there any arrangements pending as yet. And as for having kids, I have my own opinion all together. But still, I have observed other people. My friends, friends of my mom’s, colleagues and so on.

*There is no conclusion to this blog. Only opinions and thoughts.

Marriage.
Love vs Arranged. What would you go for? Is one better than the other? If yes, which is it? If no, what the heck?

Arranged marriage. Leaving your past for a new future. Of course we have this future planning and what not. But when your future is with someone completely new, how do you do it? For the women, it completely changes your life. In Asia at least. The guy would have bought a house (in most cases), and you move in with him, or low and behold, his family. If they are nice, well and fine. If they are not… You just have to live with it.
In Malaysia at least, arranged marriage is not as rigid as before (that’s what I hear). There is a short period of time where you meet and get to know the guy / girl. If all clicks.. Ta Daa!

Reminds me of a college friend. She was totally the outspoken, in your face type. Who’s had an arranged marriage to a doctor. And today is a home maker and mother of 1. She was doing well as an Accountant. But decided to leave all that behind after marriage. Though she hasn’t said it, I can’t help but wonder. At any point of time, did she ever regret leaving her job? Does she ever feel tied down staying home and waiting for the husband to come back, at the beginning of the month, waiting for the husband to give her pocket money. Spending 24/7 with her child, does she ever get worn out? Or is she really, truly contented with all this?What happens when parents arrange for you to be married to some guy overseas?

What happens when you leave your homeland for someplace new to be with someone new? Though this doesn’t happen as much here, more like something people back in the motherland would do, doesn’t it? Parents just go ahead and arrange the marriage without consulting the son or daughter, and fix a date. Has happened to someone I used to know.

Love Marriage. Depending on when the relationship started. Sometimes, some people are lucky enough to meet someone in school or college, and have a relationship that lasts all the way. They build every step of their life together. Whether it’s buying a home, or a car, you’ve known him/her long enough to know everything.

Having Kids. How do you bring them up giving them everything they need or want and not spoil them? And if you need to work, would leaving them with the maid be an option? Or Day care? Or leave them with his / her parents while you stick to your travelling job? How well will that child know you? How could you live, not seeing your own child grow up? With the high cost of living nowadays, what is the right thing to do when one of you cannot afford to be the stay at home parent?

What is the right thing to do?

Sexy Lingerie for The Dead ? What's Next?

2008-04-14T21:56:00.000-07:00

As a kid, I was tickled when told why Chinese people burnt paper cars, money and houses for the dead. "So they have money, a house to live in and a car so they can move around."
Then there was TV, radios, so on and so forth. Ok, fare enough. Being a TV/Radio addict myself as a child, I thought - why not?

But this.....!
This is just taking it to the next level.
It appears that dead women now want to feel sexy!

I am still Tickled, only this time ROTFLLL (Like Hell) Tickled...

So here's what was in the papers :

" Sexy lingerie sets have reportedly become a hit among Malaysia's ethnic Chinese, who buy them to offer to their dead relatives on the Qingming Festival.

To mark the day, Chinese traditionally tend the graves of their departed loved ones and often burn paper money, model houses, cars, mobile phones and other goods as offerings to honour them and keep them comfortable in the afterlife.

But paper lingerie has become an increasingly popular offering for dead female relatives, -Most customers find them cute and would usually add a few sets to go with other paper clothing and items such as dresses, bags and shoes for their female family members to use in the other world.
A matching set of floral underwear trimmed with gold-coloured studs costs four ringgit (1.25 dollars).
They also come in more creative designs ... sweet flowery prints and sophisticated monogram designs to cater to different tastes. "

I wonder if they had Jimmy Choo's, Prada's, D & G, Versace . . .
And what about Victoria Secrets.
Maybe we can come up with some designer brand for the dead.
Hey... Now that's thinking like a chinaman for you...

I wonder what's next?
I mean, if the dead women would want to look sexy in their afterlife.... That could only mean 1 thing.

PAPER DUREX ?

Definitely!
That's coming attraction for next year!!

Question : Why Do Men Cheat?

2008-04-07T07:33:00.001-07:00

*This is a Question. Not an Answer Blog. So if You Googled this hoping to Find and answer, guess what? There's none.

Just curious. I was out with a friend the other day, and she had to share this with me. Made me swear I wouldn't breathe a word to another soul!

So here I am blogging about it.
Aparently, someone (He; will be known as X from herein) at a high rank (ok-not so high) at our workplace has been asking someone we know (A) out for lunch. What's the deal?

X is married (appears to be happily married) with 2 kids. A is single and pretty and highly annoyed with the whole thing but patient (or is she really?). If she wanted to, she could have brought the issue up to HR. The deal is X has been bugging her for lunch, and it slowly moved to dinner. While A has been politely making excuses, X even took the liberty to come to the airport and fetch her after one of her business trips! (Without telling her he was coming) Sad for him that she decided to extend they stay, so there went his plans! (whatever it was).

Sad to say, I myself had similar experience. Being asked out by a married man. How horrifying is it especially when he is sort of a friend, and you are familiar with his wife, and not that he is in a particularly bad marriage. Is it my fault you didn't have the opportunity to have girlfriends in Uni, and stuck to your books, and finally got into the very Indian thing of getting into an arranged marriage?

Another experience I had was meeting someone online, who told me that he was married from the start, (oh how so honest of you)! As time went by (chatting about life in general) he decided to ask me if I would choose to have an affair with a married man. Curious, I asked him are you not happy with your marriage? Are you having Problems?
Very mater of factly, he says, "That's the thing, I am happy"
"And then? Why?" I ask.
I have just not been with an Indian girl before (he being chinese).
WHAT THE HECK do I look like?
I said "No". And that was that.. We lost touch after that.
I took the liberty of blocking and deleting him of my contacts.

So there, it's people like this that make me ask "Do I really Need to Get Married?"
Sure, you can argue all you want. Not all men are like that. And Yes I do agree. Not all of them are like that. In fact the really nice ones for some reason have have the meanest wife!
(Must be the karma from past life - but that's a different story as the table may have turned and It would probably be the woman cheating).
X and also person in Scenario 2, are well respected, doing well, earning well, and nice (as they appear to everyone else). So why? of Why? Do they choose to cheat? So technically they haven't cheated, but it would head there if given the chance right?

So at times like these, I am perfectly happy not married. So WHAT IF there is a good person out there for me? X and S2's wives still think they have men who adore them and would not cheat on them.

Why Do Men Cheat?
Anyone?
Dare you Defend Yourself?

My Best Friend's Wedding - Anusha Kunjumman

2008-04-01T10:19:00.000-07:00

March 29th - Anusha Kunjumman weds Victor Santos Gonzales.

Is it Cheesy or is it Cheezeh to call this Blog just that?
My Best Friends Wedding?

Anusha looking ever so gorgeous in her Wedding Gown

So the time has finally come.
Anusha ties the knot with Pastor Vic, as she calls him.

The Journey starts with Yasho and me driving for hours to ..... the Cowboy town of Banting!!!
I call it Never Reaching Banting... Because for a bit, it really did feel that we were never reaching there!!

We finally got there after about 2 hours from Kelana Jaya.
A Little Church by the main road that really looked like a house with no Cross or anything. No wonder we passed it without realising it.

The little church hall, was really little.
As we entered, this Happening Christian Band was singing praise... So Rock Like and cool...

Then another Pastor came up and gave a brief intro about Pastor Vic and Anu.
Flashed of our college days came back to me.
She's the reason I'm hooked to Austin Powers.
She's the sweet one in our TRIO.. Yes, there's another one in our group and she's married too.
All the good times we spent at College flashed before me.
And now there she was... Standing with Pastor Vic, looking so gorgeous. . .
Loss lots of weight, no more big frizzy hair, standing next to her man, in her beautiful white gown.

During the photography session, i got next to her and said;
"Anu, you look so GORGEOUS!!"
" I know! Don't I look sexy?!" - hah... started lah the mengadaness! :)
Which is what I absoloutely adore about her!
Nice to see she had that sense of humour on her wedding day, and not trying to be prim and propper.
Then again, we are talking about Anu here!!

Kenna Cukup Cukup for standing next to P. Vic and not her . . . he he

Later at the Dinner, Sheila came with her son Kavin, and Punitha with her whole family and Tushant.
Was lovely to see the bunch. . .

Except for this part... Well, no surprise though. I expected this part to come.
"So G, when's your turn?"
Oh.. Oh.. I decided to choose that moment to suffer from my occasional Selective Deafness.
Yes, so among the group of Nilai College friends, I was the last Single one Standing.
Nivin doesn't count by the way, since he's in Aussie.

The mommies and I - Punitha and Sheila

Anu and Vic, Many many Congrats & God Bless!
Love ya Anu babes... ;)

Do You Believe . . . Are You A Believer ?

2008-04-01T09:48:00.000-07:00

Do you believe in Destiny?
Do you believe in Fate?

Something, sent by someone to safe you when you are at your lowest point.

A Book, you pull out of a box, pulls you out from your lowest point.
A Magazine, you pull out of a box, randomly picked, and an article in that magazine, that you randomly decide to read, helps you clear your cloudy, confused mind.
A Newsletter, you pull out of a box, gives you the information you have been looking for, after hearing an advert on the radio, just once.

And here's the kicker . . .
This Book, this Magazine and this Newsletter, is something you bought or collected months or years ago. And it's been collecting dust in that box and has been patiently waiting for that right moment. That right moment where you will reach out for it.

31st March 2008 - Baby Turns 2

2008-04-01T09:37:00.000-07:00

My baby Shreya Ann Turns 2
Happy Birthday!

GooGle Yourself

2008-03-25T05:20:00.000-07:00

So here's something a lot of us have done.

GOOGLE . .
Not Just Google, But Google Ourselves..

It never did occur to me to do that till one of my friends mentioned something about me, and when I asked how he knew, he said - GOOGLE

And there it was, I GooGled!
GooGled myself, family, some friends, err.. boyfriends? he he.. You get the point basically.

Wonder if I Could Yahoo! Myself?

On that Topic, Something funny happened recently.
And I just had to Blog about this Blog!

I blogged about a certain Person, not realising I quoted his Full Name in my Blog. Here's the comment I got from him :

"Hello Saadhaka,
here is a funny story:
as you know, sometime people like to google themselves once in a while.i am one of those people, and i also do it in not my native language, but in english too.
to my surprise, as i did it today, i stumble upon your blog and this post.and although you might find it hard to believe, i am that Doron :-) and i actually remember our little chat that day.
i am very happy that i have made your day more bearable back then, and hope you will have more then bearable days in the future.
and although i am no longer at I*L, i hope you have more nice customers, and even nicer, then me. cause i know how important this is, cause i also was in your line ok work.
it was great meeting you, sort of meeting you :-) "

So, have you GOOGLED yourself lately?

4 Years

2008-03-14T08:27:00.000-07:00

Hari Ini Dalam Sejarah . . .
It was this day in History . . .

4 years ago . . .

A scared and nervous gal from the small town of Seremban, arrived in Penang.
With no friends and nowhere to stay.

Looking back on that day, I have come a long way.
4 years of tears and joy and lots of different experience!
The bad things, it turns out happened only for the best . . . So that kinda balances out.

Looking back, it's been a wonderful journey so far.
And better yet, this year the Dappers took over!! (Muahahahah!)
Would love to stick around and see how that goes. . .

But it is time to move on.
To gain new experience, meet new people and do new stuff.

Happy 4 Years in PG G!

:)

Huggs! (Yes, I can hug myself!)

MARCH . . . A New Beginning . . . For SURESH

2008-03-14T07:59:00.000-07:00

Well, well, well. . .
It seems like I'm not the only ine with a new Beginning (yet again).

Suresh, my dear friend in UK has a New Beginning too!
He has decided to quit the ciggys!

After persuation by many, which he totally Ignored...
March 12 was the the day.

I'm proud of you my dear!
Slightly a month to go before the arrival of your baby gal!
Timing couldn't be better!

:)

Huggs!

MARCH . . . A New Begining . . . for Malaysia?

2008-03-13T03:10:00.000-07:00

Well, looks like March is not just a New Beginning for G.

It's a New Beginning for Malaysia too :)

March 8 was the date. My 1st time ever voting.
Not too sure what came up the last elections and why I didn't vote.
Probably because I had a different mentality back then.
The TidakPa Attitude perhaps.
Who care's about what happens? And how that 1 vote will really make a huge difference?

But this time around, it's different.
No doubt I didn't fully support the HINDRAF cause, or merely watched the Bersih Rally on YouTube and Al-Jazeera. But that was enough to really make me tick.
The treatment people got was not called for. The fact that the country has a controlled media, a media controlled by the government is simply uncalled for.
Watching ministers with horrible command of English appear on International News - simply maanamising!

Everybody was talking about it. As March 8th was fast approaching, people were no longer thinking who to vote for. They knew.
But the question was, were they going to do it? Were they brave enough?

I went back to vote this time. (Yeay! Ah Fook!!)

And it was all worth it!

Well done People!
You all did well...
You were all brave...
And what you get for being Brave?

A BRAND SPANKING NEW BEGINNING!!

The INTERVIEW

2008-03-06T06:28:00.001-08:00

I hate Interviews.
Then again, I hate facing anything nerve-wrecking anyway.
{ I am bound to hate my wedding day when it happens - (yes, I said when it happens and not (if) it happens) unless I get to have my ideal garden wedding with my dad as the minister or priest or whatever with no more than 50 close loved ones attending it.}

Papa decided to give me his Hypnosis treatment to reduce my nervousness.
Perhaps it did.

Cyberjaya wasn't what I expected it to be.
What was I expecting? KL? PJ? Bayan Lepas Free Trade Zone?
Not too sure.
But lots of space and lots of empty space was not something I was expecting.

Ok Ok -Jakun, whatever!

MDec was smack in the middle somewhere and we found it in no time.

Arrived there 1 hour early.
Alan Khi, is the guy who has been talking to me all this while.
So I call him at 9.55 am, and he cheekily asked, "Did you leave Seremban at 6 am?"
I wanted to say, "No, actually I've been camping out since last night and just got sick of staring at the car park and couldn't stand to see the carpark anymore!" But I didn't.
Would be a bit Much la!

Anyways, he comes to get me about 10ish and we sit and chat at the Cafe.
Me telling him more about what I do, and asking him a few more Questions about the job.
Apparently the job is contract based, with some perks and all.
Not as good as Intel, then again, lets not expect too much eh?

After the 1 hour chat with Alan, in Comes Felix.
One of the Team Heads.
Slightly over an hour in one of the Conference Rooms.
The earlier chat with Alan was fine.
But Felix!
Made me show him my college Transcripts!
Something I myself have not looked at in 7 years!
Then the grilling began lah, and in no time my bladder shrunk!!!

Alan, later made me write a 1 an essay -yet again!
I mailed him 1 the night before.

Then he took me to go meet Khairul, the Head of Sales.
Some bla bla bla for 15 minutes.

And I was back at the Lobby.

So there it was, 3 hours of somewhat semi-nerve-wrecking interview.

Papa and I later went to this Food court place for Vegetarian Indian food.
And there it was, Loads and Loads of Indians!
Or Deeps, in your term it would be "BABU's"!

Anyways, the thing is this.
Alan kept asking if I was willing to take up the job, more than okay, here's the offer.
I told him I needed the time.

As much as I want to leave OSD badly, the uncertaity of how well I will survive here is killing me.

All part of the New Beginning eh?

மார்ச் - ஒரு புது ஆரம்பம்

2008-03-06T05:42:00.000-08:00

அவன் சொன்ன வார்தைகள் இன்னும் என் காதில் கேட்கிறது. . .
நமக்குள் எல்லாம் முடிந்துவிட்டது ... அப்படி சொல்லும்பொழுது, ஏன் வாழ்கையும் நிண்ட மாதிரி இருந்தது. . .
அவனை முதலாக சந்திக்கம்போது, ஒரு பிரிஎண்டாகே தான் பழகினேன். ஆனால் போக போக, பிரிஎண்ட்ஷிபே தாண்டி பழகினோம்.
பாகாமலே ஒருதரெய் புரிஞ்சிகிடோம், ஒருதரெய் நம்பினோம்.
வாழ்கையில் ஒரு சந்தோஷம்.

அப்போ அப்போ எனக்கு பயம் வரும்போது, நானே அவனை வெள்கி தூரமா போகலாம்னு ஒரு பீலிங் வரும்போது, அவனை ஏன் பின்னால் வருவான்.
ஆனால், இப்போ, நானே அவன்கூடே இருக்கனும்னு தோணும்போது, அவன்என் பக்கத்தில் இல்லேஎன்னு, ஒரு வர்த்தம் இருந்தது.

அவனே, நான் மட்ட பசங்க மாதிரி உன்னே விட்டு போக மாடேன்னு சொல்லி, இப்போ அவனே, நம்மகுள்ளே எல்லாம் முடிஞ்சி போச்சின்னு சொல்லும்போது, உயிரே போன மாதிரி இருந்தது.

ஆனால் போதும்! நான் பட்ட வழியும் கஷ்டம்மும் போதும்.
இது எனக்கு தேவெய் இல்லெய்.

நல்ல நண்பர்கள் கூடே இருந்ததால், என்னலே இன்னிக்கி, இப்போ, சந்தோஷமாக இர்ருக்க முடிந்தது.
விக்க்நேஷுக்கும் சுரேஷுக்கும் நன்றி.

இந்த மார்ச், எல்லாமே புதுசா ஆரம்பிக்கும் எனக்கு!

MARCH . . . A New Begining . . .

2008-03-01T02:51:00.000-08:00

It is 1st of March 2008.
Since I didn't really make any New Year resolutions this year,
I decided why not a March Resolution.

I will not whine on this blog as planned earlier.
All I can say is this...

Reminding myself this :
1. If it doesn't break you, it'll only make you stronger...
I've been through this before, and yes was pretty weak then.
Wallowed in self pity for 6 months and turned to nicotine for comfort, for a few months.
This time, I'm done wallowing (like massively wallowing in 2 days)
Thanks to Caring Friends, Suresh and Vicknesh who helped see me through this.
Vicknesh for making me break my almost 24 hours no food fast;
And Suresh for saying "If it happens, Good. If it doesn't, Even Better.", for staying up and
checking on me wee hour of the morning.

2. Everything happens for a reason.. Why? Well, we will find out sooner or later.
I did have slight doubts if things would work. Given the fact that there were things I
wasn't too happy about. But we were compatible when it came to a few things, and I
used that as an excuse to make it work.
I also knew that I was being drained out for all the wrong reasons, and we were not
Spiritually Compatible, as much as I hoped we would eventually allign, I later realised we
never would.

Ok - so you are probably thinking.....

Yea , yea.. she's saying this just because it didn't work out.

You're right. I am saying all this because it didn't work out.

Else, they would've been questions lingering on my mind and I would've never been able to put it to rest.

In some ways, I believe My Master would've had a hand in it.
I always wondered if it would come to me. If he was so wrong for me, will I be able to see it when I meditate.
And I also worried if the sign appeared in front of me, would I know what it was trying to tell me.
I just believe, that He decided it would be best for it to be this way.

Today is a fresh start.
Today is a new begining.

When Life Strangely Resembles the Tamil Cinema

2008-02-27T08:09:00.000-08:00

Boy and Girl meet . . .
Boy and Girl Fall for each other . . .
Both Parents not aware of Love Story . . .
Boys Parents Fix Him up with a Sonthakaara Ponnu (Relative Girl) . . .
Boy leaves Girl . . .
Girl Cries her Heart And Eyeballs Out. . .
Boy had Decided to Cut all Means of Communications with the Girl, while Girl is still musing over the pass . . .

I would call this Movie - Solla Marantha Kaathal
@
The Untold Love

(Ending still Pending)
Coming Attraction - Stay tuned for more..

When Love Cheats . . .

2008-02-27T07:46:00.000-08:00

Some months ago, my dear friend Gee went through a break-up.
Something that shocked me. They had been going out for over 5 years, and here I was awaiting for a long overdue wedding invitation.

I still remember that conversation we had over the phone. Brief and shocking. "Gee, we're not together anomore." She told me that in a very calm manner and explained that she would give me the details when we met.

When I finally got the story, it felt like De Ja Vu.. Just when she told him, he could come over to her house and ask her parents. He turned around and said "I have no feelings for you".
But the fact that she passed her CLP and had the support of her sister just kept her strong.

Yesterday, she found out that he was going out with another girl just 5 months before breaking up. I told Gee, be strong,"It's his loss".

She turned around and asked me "Yeah his loss that’s wat everyone is saying but think bout it is it really..?"

Things we say when a loved one is hurt...
All I can say is Gee, you are a wonderful person. It's best that it happened now than later, like after engagement or marriage.
And as painful as it may be, time will heal.

THAIPUSAM 2008 - Penang

2008-02-07T23:29:00.000-08:00

That time of year again.. Thaipusam.
Being a born Hindu, the closest I came to celebrating Thaipusam was watching it on TV or reading about it in school textbooks or the Newspaper.

But since I came to Penang and lived with Yasho's family, like it or not i have been part of Thaipusam for the pass 4 years.I help out at Uncle Ari's Panthal. Panthals are those tents put up by Associations (Political, or non Political), Companies, and Individuals to "feed" the public whilst they are here to fulfill their vows, or simply come to people watch.

Men carrying elaborated Kavadi's, getting themselves pierces with Vel (Needle / Skewer like things), all in the name of God and Religion. Ladies usually do the ligher thing of carrying Paal Kodham ( Silver jar of Milk) all the way to the Top of the hill where the Temple is. The men who are pierced or carry the Kavadis are usually accompanied by a group of guys playing the Urumi and drums while the less talented ones to the "Kuppe" dance (as we called it in college - no disrespect meant). Ahh, I miss college and my then Kuppe friends too.

It is amazing how Tens of Thousands of people celebrate that festival, some with faith, others for the fun of it. It has more of a Carnival Like feeling than something religious.

So far I have been involved as a Volunteer ( I was asked to volunteer for as long as I am here in Penang) at Uncle's Panthal. Food is serve to thousands of people starting on Thapusam eve.

Chronology of Events This Thaipusam
Eve :

Woke up at 5 am despite sleeping at 2 am.

Followed Aunty and Yasho to the "Kovil Veedu" (Temple House) located at Market St. despite me not wanting to go there, I guess i tend to oblige sometimes.

The "Ratham" also known as the Silver Chariot leaves this place at about 7 am.

Note that the Kovil Veedu houses the Murugan Deity statue and this place is Run by the Chettiars. Non-Chettiars are not allowed to go in to this place except on the morning of Thaipusam Eve also known as ChettiPusam, whereby all the ChettiKavadi's accompany the Silver Chariot. (So much for us being united as Indians, when people are creating their own separation)

Then Rushed to TESCO to purchase my Contributions, Mineral water for the Panthal Volunteers, and fruits on they Trays that will be Sent up to the Chariot for Blessing. Ironic isn't it? For the least religous one to give such a contribution that goes directly all the way up to the Chariot itself.

For the evening session, and the main bit of the day, which is where the chariot stops at all the Panthals and people give their offerings of Garlands and Fruits etc. , I was forced into a Saree. Yasho's mom is particular about being "Properly Dressed for the Occassion" and look eye-cathing, presentable, bla bla bla. So I get Tarted-Up in a Saree that belonged to Yasho and goes with my "Emergency Black Saree Blouse".

Gosh! Doesn't help that it was hot and my saree kept Clinging to my body. I WAS SWEATING IN PLACES I NEVER KNEW EXISTED!

Me Tarted up from the back, With Thanen up to mischief :

Thaipusam Day :

Served Idly and Sambhar for breakfast.

Served Rice, Kurma and Veg for Lunch.

** Rushed home for a quick nap..... Home was to Datin Anna's house. Also the place we put up the night before.

Damn.. Sumi, Yasho and I just didnt have the heart to leava that Bed!

Rushed back to the Panthal for out yearly routine!

Making the infamous Puri!

Yes, all that oil filling up your pores..Ew.. I can feel it even now.

Somehow this year felt like there was less help, and to my surprise, the worked did finish a lot faster and everything was more systematic this year that last.

Some fresh faces came in to help. Vicknesh, Thanen, Kavi and Anitha.

And 3 kuchi boys jus came out of nowhere.. Initially they were just there go get the Puri, and when Yasho just sarcastically said "We could do with some help", they actually came and were a big help...

We ended the whole celebration (as I choose to call it) people watching, while Thanen was passing hillarious remarks...

My Overall Observation and Opinion.

Last Thaipusam, I took the liberty to accompany Yasho up the hill Temple while she carried her Paal Kodham. From the bottom of the steps it took us about 2 and a half hours to get to the top! 1stly, for someone not religious in anyway - this was too much. Then I get to the top, only to see all the milk brought up by the devotees being poured onto the statue of "Palani" another incarnation of Lord Muruga. This ritual called Abishegam, is usually a bathing ceromony of the deity and part of the pooja ceromony. I guess it is supposed to be a gesture of appreciation to God. Gallons and Gallons of Milk being poured, on a statue. Once again, no disrespect meant, but I seriously don't think He would get upset if we just decided to reduce the quantity of milk to 10 litre or 1 litre, and perhaps decide to donate the rest to those more needy than Him. Really.

And breaking thousands of Coconuts..What's up with that? It all gets collected by the MPPP afterwards, and that's that.

It really is nice to see our Indians take such interest, or have such devotion towards the religion. I think it would be better if they can also direct the same amount of energy towards their own development and also to augment the importance and the value of our society. Instead of complaining about the discrimination that goes on in this country (which happens and there's no doubt about it), we should really look into developing ourselves.

Each year, millions and probably billions or ringgit goes towards celebrating Thaipusam. I live in Gelugor, where there is a small Primary School called SR(J)KT Subramanya Barathee. The size of that school is probably no bigger than the little Terace House I live in back in Seremban. But this is a school after all and a school the size of a Terrace house is not acceptable. Their "Padang Sekolah", would actually be the same field the neighbourhood kids play football at. But do think about it, if all that cash spent for 1 years Thaipusam went to that School, what a difference it would make?

Just a thought eh? Who am I to critisize? So really, we should start with the effort then see where that takes us. No point depending on the Nathex ;)

Prayer . . .

2008-01-19T04:34:00.000-08:00

"Grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change;
courage to change things I can;
and the wisdom to know the diffence."

People We Come Accross .... In the Customer Service Line

2008-01-15T06:37:00.000-08:00

Working in the Customer Service line, we come accross all sorts of people.
From the most annoying to the dumbest and not forgetting funniest.
Dumb is divided

We divide Dumb to :
1. Annoying Dumb
2. Hillarious "share it with your colleagues and LYAO" Dumb

Here's 2 of the Number 2 scenario eh..

1. My buddy Vick works with Customers via Web Request.
They submit the initial request via Web and continue via e-mail mostly.
A customer wrote in via web saying "I can't send e-mails"
Vick sent a mail telling him what to do.
The customer replies back to Vick, via e-mail and says "I did it. My E-mail. Still doesn't work!"
Vick - But you just sent me an email.
Customer - Oh, then I guess its solved..... (wak.. wak.. wak..!)

2. I was working with a customer on Chat support and needed to send him something.
G - You need to fill a form and submit. I will be mailing it to you shortly.
C - Through E-mail or Snail Mail?

Toodles!

Hunka Burnin' Love!

2008-01-13T05:47:00.000-08:00

Watched The Game Plan last week.

Been a while since I watched The Rock.
Ahh... I was sooo excited!

Anyways, it's one of those touchy, feely movies where this Arrogant, Egoistic, "It's all about ME ME ME" Guy, finds out he's got an 8 year old daughter.
Initially he could't wait to get rid of her, and eventually grows to love her.
The daughter (Peyton) played by Madison Pettis. She did a good job with the role. Addorable, but mischievious yet touching when she really needed to portray it.

This was my favourite scene from the movie. When Peyton actually cries saying she wants her mom, was believable.

And The Rock sings, Are You Lonesome tonight... (Fan of the King)

And when you watch the movie, you might just notice this.

The Rock is suffering from a disease.

Yes.

Don't be surprised.

It's called SCRONSILLITIS!
HE LOSS SO MUCH WEIGHT!

Just look at his face.

Not so Hunka Burnin Love'ish now is he?

But still as cute as ever :)

On a Busy Day . . .

2008-01-13T05:41:00.000-08:00

On days you think everything os going crappy..
People like Doron Tilleman come along and make the day a little more bearable ..

* Doron - someone i was helping with a Mobile Connection Issue

2:06:34 AM] Doron > oh, the reconnect worked (although there is no button for it). and the MCC worked 2!!!
[2:06:46 AM] GAR_garjunan > :)
[2:06:49 AM] GAR_garjunan > phew!
[2:07:00 AM] Doron > i have never been so happy about the possibility to work from home. which is sad. but thank u very very much
[2:07:12 AM] Doron > i hope the MCC will behave by the time i get back home

My New Home

2008-01-05T22:53:00.000-08:00

My New Home in Penang at least.
Well, Not exactly new. I moved in last October and it toally slipped my mind to update about this new place!

Yes, I finally move out of Yasho's place.
Good or Bad?

Definately good!
Her parents are great! No complaints about that.
So what is the Fuss all about?
The ANIMALS!

The sexually active feline creatures!

Let's go down memory lane.

When I moved in, there was Blacky (mom) and her 2 kitties, Comot and Blacky Jr.
Then Blacky was sent away with her Other Kitties (Names not given).
Comot had a Baby Called Whitey.
Blacky Jr is the horny male feline that I hated so much.
Yasho claims it had a thing for me and we probably had some connection in our previous birth. (I Strongly doubt that).

And then came Fluffy.

Meanwhile Comot and Blacky were put to sleep.
Whitey and Fluffy took turns getting laid.

And brilliant Yasho decided to get a dog - Princess! it seems.
It's a mongrel for goodness sake!
A mongrel who eventually got laid and had 3 pupppies!

Ok, for someone who did not grow up around animals and never had any fancy for them in the 1st place, I was totally ODed on the smell, the fur and seriously, the company of animals.

Besides the animals, the room itself was warm, stuffy and overcrowded.
The matress seemed to be releasing heat when I decide to take afternoon naps.

So yes..
Leaving was a good thing.

And now my new place.
A lot better.
Lots of space to move around, good circulation.
And (almost) animal free.
My landlord, happens to have a persian Snob of a cat who thinks no end of herself!
Well, as long as she stays out of my way, I am fine.

I've got 3 house mates.
Vim - The one who helped me get the place. However, ever since I moved in I realise I see her more at work than at home. Contraty to the fact that some people think it would be convenient for Babu to date 2 gals staying at the same place ;). As a matter of fact, I've not seen her come home in over a month.

Theresa @ Spookey - I named her that, because as the name suggests, she really is spookey at night! For some weird reason, she sleeps in the living room. Took me a while to get used to it. Especially the 1st week I was there. I used to come back late after gym, only to find a figure sitting in the dark, doing nothing. Visions of the Exorcist came to mind! Where the Kid is sitting on the ber and her head does that 360 (I think) turn!!! Though when asked why she sleeps out, the reply I got was "Simply, sometimes". Did I also mention, how she's completely obssesed with talking about how thin she used to be? And also very insensitively commented to Vim that although Thin, she had a tummy!!! I think Vim was pretty upset but faked it with a smile.

Ananthi - The last to join the house, is the youngest and chattiest. Also obsessed with weight! She's into boiling everything and drinking it because, "It's good for weight lost" ! Her other obsession is about being fair. Though I haven't heard her talking about what's good to bleach your skin, she would comment when she sees a fair skin Indian, "Akka, I never knew got Indians that fair" C'mmon gal. Where have you been living? Under the Ipoh Rocks? Also very thrifty. Forever calculating and trying to figure out where cauliflower is cheaper. She decided it was cheaper in Ipoh than Penang. Then somehow discovered that TESCO had cheaper vege than the market close to where we live.

Aahh.. the joys of having housemates.

* I still wish i could get Nate to come Deco my room! sigh.... any takers? It looks awful..

Celebrating the New Year

2008-01-02T02:56:00.000-08:00

Ushering the New Years this year was different.

I'm usually at home with parents.
And since I got to Penang, Yasho's family always have a supper gathering at home after home prayers.

This year, I decided to usher the New Year all by meself.

No no..
This is not supposed to be a depressing Blog.
Just wanted a ME New Year...

So after work, came back, rushed to clean the room, then clean myself, and made me a nice hot cup of Rose Tea with a rose bud in it.

Aaahh.. Nice one.
Read till 1.30 am.

And off to bed.
A Nice quiet way to start the New Year.

Oh and my 1st resolution was to not send any New Year texts!
So if you didn't get any, now you know why.
I thought, why waste all that cash (although a few cents per sms) paying MAXIS?!

But I did reply less than 10 sms.
Just didn't want to seem Kurang Ajar to some aunties la.

So there's some NuEar Noose :)

New Begining - 2008

2007-12-31T21:19:00.000-08:00

I am not going to start off by whinning about the fact that - I don't understand why New Year is such a Big thing and Why can't people make a big deal out of every New Week / Month!

OOooops!
I think I did it again! :)

So here's to the New Year.
I don't want to make a New Year's Resolution.
I never keep it anyway.
Perhaps a Monthly or a Bi-Monthly or a Tri-Monthly Resolution eh?
How 'bout that?

Well.... Happy New Year!

Hopefully this Year gets Better..

wRapping uP!

2007-12-31T18:03:00.000-08:00

Wow.. Should I start of with the Regular TIME FLIES! line?
Nah..
Let's just get to the point...

Time to wrap up 2007!
And Greet 2008...

Uuurgh!
Means I'll be 28 in 9 months...!

Well, 2007 has been rather mellow yet a little interesting.
Mellow coz I have not met the ONE.
Well, meeting is not enough. Getting to know is not enough.
Has to be the ONE lah basically...
Hoping to have this sorted this 2008 eh?

Mellow because despite wanting to further studies, I still haven't found what I am looking for.

Got to Travel to India finally!
Yeay!
And Hated it too! :)

Sort of been a good gal this year, compared to all the other years ;)

The Battle to Loose weight.... still going on!

Lost the job I hated, and got another one I hate even more!
Yes, the saying Don't know What you got till it's Gone comes to mind..

Got hurt by people who are so called friends, and that made me think a lot..
Decided to Loose some in the process..

Discovered MUSE!
Went to Boyz II Men concerts!
TRANSFORMERS!

So farewell 2007!
New Year to look forward to..

WHINE, Whine, whine . . . GOD

2007-12-26T07:48:00.000-08:00

*WARNING : Blogger Highly Irritated with people who think They are right and she is Not!

So what's up with people lah?
What's up with people who judge you because you don't go to temple?
What's up with people who think they are good because the do the vegetarian thing on Fridays, or Thaipusam, or Paurnami, or Ammavase, or Prattasi Sanni and I don't?
I used to do it when I was a kid. Only because my mom said so.
Now I just don't see a point in it.

Because Religion is the cause of all Problems in the Universe isn't it?
Muslims say Allah is the Only God, all others are Khafir, Christians go Jesus this and Jesus that. But Jesus is not even God, he is the Son of God! Why don't you pray to the Father straight? What? He's to busy closing business deals? What?! And Hindus! Don't even get me started with Hindus... Actually I don't even know where to start. Too many Gods, for God's sake! And there are Gods Only the South Indians Pray to. Krishna Statues up North are painted white, because the people up there are fair. And as we move down south, not just Krishna Statues, but all other Gods too.. They become darker and darker... Till they reach the very tip of India.. where it's all black!
And the people outside India, just blindly follow.

And then they start to fight! Muslims fight among themselves and with others, Hindus just play who's got whiter God and Bigger Temple, and Tallest and Goldest Statue.

Use that money to build better schools for cyring out loud.
Keep God in your heart because that's where the seed is!

Don't go looking for God outside when God's within you.
And don't judge me because you don't know me.
Because from day to day, I'm getting to know me.

WHINE, Whine, whine . . . Marriage and Friends

2007-12-26T07:33:00.000-08:00

*WARNING : Blogger High on Anger while Blogging this!!!

Anu is back from Aussie. Was awesome to speak to her when I called her for Christmas. Anu, Puni and I were somewhat a 3some in college, and even after I went to INTI and left Nilai, we were that 3some still.

Only for a shortwhile though. After Puni got hitched with Pradeep, she somewhat became that I can't hang out... Or even if we did, she had to do the Punch Card thing with him! Oh for GOD's Sake! Gimme a break.
Long story short, she's married to him and got a kid.

Anu was a my favourite crazy bum! The Wacko that she is! She is not engaged to be married to a Philipino Paster this March 2008.

I love them to bits. But haven't been in touch with Puni that much. Because everytime I call her she expects me to tell her something new. Which usually entails me getting Hitched. Which doesn't help the fact that I am not. Which makes her start leturing me about this whole thing about age and marriage and bla bla...

I called Anu last night to wish her for Christmas... And Holly Ghost! What happens? She Pulls a Puni! Yeaps! Gets on my case about getting Hooked up!

They are not the only 2.
Another reason I decided not to go back home this month, is coz mom's getting some of her current colleagues to come for lunch and guess what? Those nossy pots would be giving me that "When are you getting Married" nonsensical nonsense...

Doesn't help that men I meet only want to have an affair (yes, they are married), or old enough to be my father! or just young guys who jus wanna bonk! What? Do I have the words BONK ME stammped all over my face?!

All a woman wants if for a guy who would talk to her, not force her to go to temple, and then just love her for who she is. Is that too much to ask?

If it is... then Frig it!
I'll just go adopt the entire Salvation Army or go Volunteer for World Vission.
Who needs men anyway?!
Just Farkovsky la ok!

WHINE, Whine, whine . . . WORK

2007-12-26T03:31:00.000-08:00

*WARNING : For those of you who complain that my blogs are depressing and not "Happy Blogs"... BOO freakin Hoo! Go read Uncle Teoh's Blog then..

As the Year End is Fast approaching, I would like to be a whiner and whine.
I don't like my job.
I used to whine about my last job, but this one makes me whinier!

I hate the the fact that everything here is sooo sucko!
I don't enjoy working here. It's sucky. And it sucks.
There! I'm sounding like a 5 year old.

Lot's of stupid things here I could whine about.
The processes here for one..,
I mean what the Fudge is it with those damn Quality Monitoring anyway?
There are 2 idiots sitting at the corner of the room monitoring calls and Tickets and going through Chat Support Logs. Fine.... Do your job. Sure we need Quality and sheizers! Why not?
But what pisses me off is this; those TWATS, sit in their cossy little corner going through our chat logs right?
The Chat Sessions we have with customers. They Sit and Jugde and put a percentage mark on the fact that A capital letter wasn't where it was supposed to be or a bloody full stop became a comma.
I mean what the frig do you know when you're sitting confortably in that corner of yours. What do you know about handling 3 chats at the same time with at least 2 customers demanding attention or wanting immediate respose and they keep HELLO!ing you 10 times in 5 seconds?!
I don't friggin have time to put your bloody Capitals and Full Stops where you want it to be!

What's with the stupid deal where you got to offer the ticket number to every freaking customer?!? I mean, what's ticket traccking for? Even if it's a password reset or an issue you routed or refered to another team...Arrgh..!

And I hate the fact that my stupid manager asks if I need help (putting the bloody capitals?) !

As for the users themselves, well... you solve an issue and it's a bloody "Thanks! You did it!". No mail to the manager saying, "hey, your employee did an awesome freakin job! get her some vouchers and goodie drawers". Oh Nooo... Compliments just takes too much time.

But hey, a small screw up let me assure you will be blown out of proportion! "Please help me understand why this happened?" You know what I wanna reply to that Stooooooopid question? "We're human and shit happens, get used to it! And Kiss my Knee Caps!"

I hate that it's a big thing to take leave.
Got to go through the team mate, the manager, the team lead and the manager again!
That sucks.

Clearly things are shitty and getting to me now.
I don't know when I'm going to blow my top.
Hopefully I leave before that.

Merry Christmas ! !

2007-12-26T02:02:00.000-08:00

A very Charity-ish Christmas this Year.

The IT GPTW Team sponsored a Christmas for the Salvation Army Kids.

And another one thanks to Dom, was once again for the Salvation Army kids and Kids from the House of Grace.

It's amazing to see all these kids with discipline.

They ate at McDonalds, and clean the table after eating!

Even wiped the table.

I guess it's all that training they get from the home itself.

Well, once again, Merry Christmas all!

The PHOTOGRAPHER wannabe

2007-12-17T17:47:00.000-08:00

The Autum Leaves.

G calls it On A Lazy Afternoon.

Damn!
I am so jealous!!

I was browsing through a blog/orkut/msn Buddy's (who also happens to be Anil's brother in law) Blog.
Coincidently, he is called G too.

He's got some awesome pics!

Lots of awesome pics actually.

He takes photos I can only dream of taking.

I am like this Awesome Photo-taker Wannabe, and he's already there.

Though I know it's not so cool to put Pics not taken by me, what the heck!

Thought I'd put down a few of My Favourite shots in here.

I guess you gotta have the eye for it.
Having a good cammie alone doesn't cut it huh?

My Christmas wish is for a Easy to follow Photography for Dummies Dummies... (yes, 2 Dummies)

SONG : POGATHEY

2007-12-17T03:48:00.000-08:00

Jus fell a bit songish... and wanted to post this.

Beautiful song from the movie Deepavali.

Never watched it though, but I like the song.

Pogadhe pogadhe

nee irrunthaal naan irrupen

pogadhe pogadhe

nee pirinthaal naan irrapen

Unnoda vaalntha kaalangal yaavum kanavai ennai mooduthadi

yaar endru neeyum enna paarkum pothu uyrai uyire poguthadi

Kalaraiyil kuda jannal ondru vaithu undhan mugham paarpenadi

Pogadhe pogadhe

nee irrunthaal naan irrupen

pogadhe pogadhe

nee pirinthaal naan irrapen

Kalainthalum megham athu meendhum medhakum

Adhu pola thaaney undhan kadhal ennakum

Nadai padhai vilaka kadhal viluntha uddan nadaipathuku

Nerupalum mudiyath amma nineivugalai allipathuku

Unnakaga kathirrupen oh

Uyirodu paarthirrupen oh

Pogadhe pogadhe

nee irrunthaal naan irrupen

pogadhe pogadhe

nee pirinthaal naan irrapen

Alagana neram adhai neethaan kudduthai

Aliyatha sogam athaiyum nee thaan kudduthai

Kan thoogum neram paarthu kadavul vanthu ponathu pol

Yen vaalvil vanthei aanai yemathru thaangavillaiye

Pennai nee illamal Bhoologam irrutiruthei

Pogadhe pogadhe

nee irrunthaal naan irrupen

pogadhe pogadhe

nee pirinthaal naan irrapen

Toldjha!

2007-12-11T20:17:00.000-08:00

I toldjha so !

Well, well, well...

So the iPro didn't get deployed last Sunday after all.

Suckers!

I mean, if you're going to deply something.. Do the proper!

Get a pilot team.

Do testing and all that shit, and then deploy!

But NOOOO!!!!

And this is what you get.

So more time to relax and enjoy GEMS.

G's Daemon - Erasmus

2007-12-08T19:50:00.000-08:00

The All New X61

2007-12-06T04:08:00.000-08:00

The all new addition to my current family here in Penang.

Got me all new X61.
All tiny and sleek looking.
OK, sleek is actually not a word for this laptop.
I think the ThinkPad's are the all business and no play kinda lappies.

Proof?
Ma all new X61 ain't got no DVD Player and Web Cammie unlike the T61!
Sigh..
What a dissapointment!
What's more important than the 2?!
I mean, seriously!

Ok, so what's more important is this. I gotta get 2 BKM scripts and report on the performance of this laptop in 1 week!
What da FRIGGIDYDOODADAY ?!
Yes.. That little Madam SupportEngineering woman would have my head or else.

I still feel more attached to my T42, despite the 3 Rebuild in 5 weeks she went for.
And by the way, stll in need of another one.
Yes, MORE hard disk errors.
And how dare that guy at the PC Services ask me accusingly, "How You Use Your Laptop ah?!"
While I cutely answered back, "Err, Same As Everybody Else. Don't La Scold me."
But he did seem kinda frustrated.
Hey wait a minute! That's your job.
What about me?
I had to bloody come back and reinstall Tons of Applications.
Doesn't help that TAC has to make everything a little different add more components to the installation and so on.
Crap!
GEMS was a Fitch to install! (Wait for next blog when I appreciate GEMS)

Oh, back to the main topic.
Me X61.
Officially its today that I am using the all new PROSET11 Wireless on this system.
So far so good.

More Updates coming soon.

Live Life

2007-12-04T03:43:00.000-08:00

Have you ever wondered?
What on earth's name are you doing in this world?
What the heck God put you here for?
What are you going to do in life?
Is there something you're meant to do or you just going on doing whatever the heck you want to....

I had 2 different experiences this week that made me think.

I met a bunch of College mates on Sunday. Initially I was thinking, maybe I should screw it. Then I thought since Gin is coming all the way from KL, and making the effort to arrange this gathering. Of course, later that night I so regreted that trip.

What happens when 4 Chinese and 1 Indian have a gathering?
The Chinese start speaking in Chinese and the Indian sits there like an idiot!
Guess who was the Idiot?!
It was like going back to college all over again.

When they started talking in English, here's what was part of the content.
Being a Project Managet in some TELCO Co., Making Money, Business.
And none of it involved me.
That's all there was to it. Everything was about making $ $ $.
How to relax and make $ $, How to a program called $ $ and You changed ones life.

Harrison, despite him being a Taiwanese and not being super close to him actually rememberd my name.
As obvious as it was to me, he's the one doing really well among us. Basically a Taiwanese running his family copper business in Prai. Flies back once a month to see his girlfriend there. And also the one who really didn't want to talk about money, making money, or how to make money.

I was more than glad to leave.

Today while I was online, a long time friend buzzed me on MSN.

So I will paste the almost the entire conversation here.

there is this one swamiji i want u to meet
swami baskar thondaiman
high chances u neVer heard of him
its Not a must
but just thot of telling u
i just saw him
and he blessed me
and i transformed automatically
Now i dun drink, i dun occasionally smoke, and full time Vege boy
life has been tremendous
he is comin back this 11th
so if u are free u can meet him in kl or butterworth

Saadhaka says:
so tell me more..
Saadhaka says:
what do you feel...
Saadhaka says:
what happened

its too long a story darling
a story with lotsa miracles
since u are in spiritual line u might kNow that the reason one meditate is to get closer to god or to attain him
rite?
and ppl do many kind of thing s to attain god
like going in exile
for 20 or 30 years
or eVen more
this swamiji's blessing
is a blessing which will tell u or rather teach you about what belongs to u in this birth
so that u dun waste time doing this which arent meant for u
its diff to explain la G
we haVe to talk face to face actually
maybe i might come butterworth
with the swamiji
i can perhaps meet u
u will be amazed at my stories
and start thinking if im conning u coz my stories might and yes it will sound unbelievable
but dun worry
coz i thot the same when heard the story from some one else
so i'll leaVe u with this point to ponder
and giVe u a small story
like a bonus or something okay
let me just put it simply this way
wheneVer i wanna do something
i ask God and he answers me whether to do Not
and thats for REALLLLLLLL
and real time answer babew

Saadhaka says:
are you allowed to share how he answers you?
Saadhaka says:
or will that jinx it?

no
but i will tell u
coz u're my sweet heart
He is inside me so rite Now he shakes my head up down for yes and side to side for no
just like that
so as i medidate more intensely I might be able to hear or see him
and i tell u honey i aint bull shittin u
dun get scared
its no hocus pocus
magic or Voodoo
its the Big G

I read all that and perhaps digested it a little with some mixed feelings.
In search of God.
I am not with him, the part way he said he stopped drinking and the occassional smoking after the swamiji blessed him. It's all in the mind. If you don't want to drink then stop. And if you don't want to smoke occassionally, then stop. If you want to be a vegetarian, then so be it. Why wait for a swamiji's blessing?

As for the others, I have yet to ponder over them...
Nesh is a good friend of mine.
Not that I wanna kutuk him or anything.
Just trying to understand people and what they want. And trying to figure out what I want and what I need.
Will I have the guts to go see this swamiji? I don't know. I really have a phobia for all this.
We'll see..

When Companionship falls apart...

2007-12-02T04:10:00.000-08:00

They were close friends..
Probably a little too close than they really should've been.

It was more than friendship.
Call it whatever, companionship perhaps.

Long chats on the phone at nights, sometimes the day time too.
Despite the fact that they meet at work, they had so much to talk about.
Work, family, friends, life, joke and laugh.
It was awesome.

But both knew it would not last forever.
He adored her from the time he laid eyes on her.
And she eventually saw him as a potential.
He was decent, kind, sweet, loving, always there for her.
She always doubting everything, because from her experience all good things always come crashing at her feet. And she was so afrad to feel, do or think anything. But she liked him anyway. Who wouldn't?

So if they liked each other what was the bloody problem?
Some higher authority that is.
Sure, something he wouldn't fight because his hands were tied.

Despite knowing all that they stayed close.

And then the day came.
She being the sensi creature that she was, and him being the same.

The Fallout episode started on the week of his birthday.
A bit of sensitiveness on her part and a bit of insensitiveness on his part.

His words cut through like a knife, when he said those ever hurthing words, "First come First Serve".
Of course all she wanted was to be the one to take him out for his birthday and he has done so much for her, she knew she could never top that. But still, something small and meaningful she wanted to do.
But those words just ripped her. Silly gal, i thought. But she couldn't help feeling what she felt.

And when she called to wish him some minutes pass midnight, his thank you sounded so cold!
She knew the damage this time may be unrepairable.

On sunday, he just left for lunch without a word.
Signs of damage becoming more and more obvious.

They haven't spoken since.

The thought did cross her mind.
Maybe she should put her ego aside and go speak to him.
A part of her thinks, perhaps its better this way.
Perhaps it would be easier if it ended this way.
Perhaps there's someone else now.
Perhaps the time has come for her to walk the opposite direction.
What do I know?
What does she know?
The little present she got him is still lying around at her place.
She doesn't know when or how to give it to him.

It does feel lonely, there is this empty hole.
But she's kept busy just to keep her mind of everything.

Now, none of us knows how this is going to end or what's going to happen next.
Time will tell I guess.

A message to my dear friend;
Whatever happens, whatever you decide.
You are a sweet person, and I wish you all the best. Whatever path you decide to take.

Signs : Your Company is Becoming A Cheapo

2007-11-26T02:44:00.000-08:00

1. They decide to end their contract with Vendors who are in someways affiliated to Giants (or formerly Giants now bought over by some ah B company) like Italian Business Men and give the Business to really Owned by local Ah B company where the people who work there are mostly Ah B mentality people who can't speak english for nuts but are there anyway.

2. They decide to hire cheaper Vendor to Clean toilets.

3. No Weekend toilet cleaning Service because it's cheaper.

4. The new cleaner company clean the office area whenever they bloody want or don't want just because they don't get paid enough anyway. The rubish gets taken out once a week.

5. They decide to pay you once a month (which is something they could've done in the 1st place) after paying you your salary twice a month from the time you've been working there.

6. They decide that although 6 months training would do you good, maybe 3 months should be fine and then end up only giving you a 6 week on job training which requires you to travel. And after figuring out that the 6 weeks was no good, and they increase it to 11-12 weeks instead. (Penny wise Pound Foolish?)

7. They decide that although you've had security checks at nights and throughout weekends when you come into the office, you dont need those extra security guards now so they can cut cost.

8. After all these years they decide since you're exempt employees, you wouldn't need that free Cafe21, Boh Tea or Vico 3 in 1s and Breads and Buns and What Nots and now have to pay for it.

9. They decide to make the downsizing exercise a yearly, quarterly, half yearly affair.

* Did I miss anything else?
* Not too sure...

Tips for the Cheapo Company.
Here's what more you can do!

1. Lights to be switched on at all office are with windows only from 7pm - 7am. Offices with no windows, remove every other Flourecent light.
2. Hire Employees to be Security Guards at Night (It could be part of your Focal)
3. Get employees eating at the Cafeteria to bring their own Plates and Cutleries, and make sure they take it back home to be washed. Not only do you safe water but the Cafe Vendor gets to cut down their employees too!
4. Replace free toilet wipes with Toilet Wipe Vending Machines instead! No more free ass wiping!

** To be updated when I get more Cost Saving Ideas.

If It Ain't Broken . . . .

2007-11-18T21:48:00.000-08:00

If it ain't broken, Why oh Why?

What am I blabbering about?
Those sicko's have done it.
Some Friggin' StickHead is all out for his/her Focal this year ain't it?
For sure.

The Old GEMS application is used as our ticketing system at the Intergrated Service Desk (ISD) Call Centre.
And basically, every other group that has any sorta link to the SD also uses GEMS.

Ah, and remember how I was whining about GEMS installation being such a Fitch in my Last Blog?
I take it back! I TAKE IT ALL BACK!

But Too late for that now isn't it Ms.G?
Why?

Some brilliant smart Alec!
Decided to introduce iPRO.
Yeap! That's my Yemen la for this month or this Quarter!

Doesn't help that the word LEMBABTION applies to me when it comes to technical stuff.

GEMS is Application Based, and bloody used friendly.
One time login and you stay logged in the whole day, or week. Unless the server goes down.
But who am I kidding?
No one stays logged in the whole week.

Whereas Friggin iPRO is WEB BASED!
Uuuurrgh!
And it gets worse.
It's anything but user friendly.

Not only did TAC Move its Phone Login system from HardPhone to SoftPhone. It moved to GAD, also WebBased. So it'll be compatible with good ol' iPro.

That's it!
A million and one IE Pages open!
One crashes, "We all Fall Down!"

Doesn't help that the smart Alecs decide to push this without a Pilot Stage!
Everyone, I mean everyone is CURSING away!
DAMN YOU! You iPRO Intorducer You!
( I forsee someone choking on food or a drink, or tripping over a step or falling of a chair or the bed at this moment)
Then again, at the rate things are going and everybody cursing, this person would've dropped dead by now!

But no. Remember the Rule? I don't know who's though.
Bad things only happen to good people.
So no.
This person's probably WooHooing all the way to his Focal writing moment.
Sucker!

My thought is, if there's an issue with the GEMS, if the Vendor doesn't wanna support it, find a workaround.
There are Tons of geniuses at the Company all waiting to show theirs Talents and Shine.

But NOOOOOO....
They choose the Idiot who introcuses something completely different.

Well, iPRO was suppose to be Launched last weekend and has been pushed to the coming weekend.
Imagine my joy last Sunday when I came in and discovered we would still be using GEMS! :)

Sigh. Don't think that's going to happen again.
Will see how that goes.

till then,
Goodles! (that's Toodles in G's Language) ;)

People...

2007-11-18T21:41:00.000-08:00

People can be so insensitive sometimes...
People can be so hurtful sometimes...
People couldn't care less sometimes...

That what they say can cause pain,
That what they say is actually not that funny but instead hurting,
That if they can't say something nice then they shouldnt say anything at all?

That Stinking Period Right Now..

2007-10-28T04:32:00.000-07:00

Lost Interest in everything...
except watching Scrubs...
thats all I do...
and if only my 1st 2 DVDs of Will and Grace Season 2 worked just fine. Lord, I'd be happy!
I just love Jack's sense of Gaymour!

I have absoloutely No Interest in Anything.
Not my work, Not my friends, Not Myself, Not the way I look, Not My Room.
This sucks and everything sucks!!!!!

It's just that phase I am going through. I hope.
Thankgoodness I've only got 3 friends reading this blog and probably some strangers must've browsed this site at some point.
I don't want people to think I am a walking time bomb or anything.

I've lost interest to work, I've lost interest looking for another job, I've lost interest to go back to KL (didnt really want to anyways).

I had plans to beautify my room, now that thought has gone down the toilet!
I wanted to get some nice stuff put on the wall so the ugly double sided tape won't be visible...
But Nooooooooooo....
All that plan out the window!
Coz my so not creative mind cannot think of something to put up that wall.

I wish I had that creative streak like Jay.
I swear that dude is straight with gay tendencies...

Wish i could call Oprah for Help and get that Hotey Nate to come Deco me room!
MMmmm.... MMMmmmm!
(Deeps, you're probably going like..."Haiyo, you Horny woman! )

AAArrgh.. got to get myself together..