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Garden of Good and Eva

2011-05-02T13:23:00.000+08:00

I like trying out fragrances whenever I'm in shopping malls. I like trying fragrances on my skin instead of on cards unless I'm trying many fragrances at one go. After the one that I bought few years back started to smell funny, it was time to get another one before I leave to UK.

The concept of this fragrance collection started when Maggie and Annie visited Bath, England (not sure if I would be going to Bath when I'm in England but if there's a trip, count me in!). They were inspired by this place there called Royal Crescent where the homes are laid out on a crescent shape. For this collection, they imagined the girls (each fragrance represents a girl with names like Sofia, Gina, Eva and so on) as neighbours living on Crescent Row and what each personality would be like.

When Benefit launch the first three fragrances, I tried all of them and the one that I liked was Laugh with me LeeLee but because my I didn't need any fragrances then so I didn't buy it.

Last year, I think, they added another three girls to the Crescent Row collection. And around then was when my fragrance started to smell funny. So I tried all of it and couldn't decide between Laugh with me LeeLee and Garden of Good and Eva. In the end, a few weeks ago, I finally settled for Garden of Good and Eva.

Eva suits my personality more and I love the scent. Here's a poem written by Benefit to describe Eva

come away with eva

breeze down a lush lane

she's the fresh rush of splendor

you can't quite explain

so vividly vibrant

with a carefree demeanor

she whirls off to a place

where grasses are greener

The top notes consists of pear, watermelon, ozone accords and muguet. The middle notes consists of rosebuds, jasmine petals, green violet leaves, freesia. While the bottom notes are sandalwood, musk and cedarwood.

I also like the packaging for this collection. It's unique and I think I would keep the bottle even if it's empty. The bottle looks like a cocktail shaker and I like the fact that it's not made of glass, this means that I can carry it around, put it in my check-in luggage without worrying that the bottle would break and my clothes would smell nice. But fragrances are for my skin to smell nice not my clothes. The box for this collection is also lovely. It looks like a house and when you open it up, you can see the furnishing and decoration of that house reflecting the taste and personality of each girl.

I also like the fact that mine can last for many hours on my skin meaning that it's a perfect fit. I don't like fragrance that last only for 2-3 hours. Eva also smells good on me and when no one is watching, I would sniff the spot where I sprayed the fragrance and smile.

Have a great week ahead,

Vicky

Upgrading my brain

2011-03-21T11:00:00.002+08:00

Sorry for not updating my blog for some time. Was busy with studying for my CIMA exams in May and planning Europe trip.

Read this article online on 7 ways to upgrade my brain. I don't have a super brain so this article piqued my interest as I think it needs some upgrading. The 7 ways to upgrade our brain are:

Read (I read a lot so I'm already doing that just that it's getting harder and harder these days to find the time to read)
Get a degree (I'm going to do that, I'll be attending a summer programme in UK in June this year.)
Seek out new experiences (I'm going overseas to study and after that will be travelling around Europe with friends, I've never done that before so it's a new experience for me)
Think (I think I need to work harder in this department)
Practice (Currently practicing my toastmasters speech and attempting past year exam questions)
Write (I journal after doing my quiet time and update this blog from time to time)
Do things that are hard (CIMA exams are hard and I'm doing it)

So I guess I'm making some efforts to upgrade my brain and if I keep this up, my brain is going to be pretty well developed. To read the rest of the article, go to this website (http://www.productivity501.com/7-ways-to-upgrade-your-brain/8502/).

Vicky

God's plans vs my plans

2011-02-27T15:42:00.002+08:00

I'm a funny person. I believe in a prayer answering God and yet sometimes say prayers that I don't wish God would answer but say it anyway. Like how I told God that I surrender my plans and dreams to Him and that I want to do His will.

I know this is a bit confusing. I'm not sure how should I put this situation that I'm in, in words.

I shall start with my plans. My plans is to work overseas for a few years to gain exposure and experience then return to my home country with the hope that I could contribute better. Then somewhere along the way, in my quiet time I told God, I surrender my plans to Him. I want to do His will because based on my experience, following God's will actually turned out well for me.

These past few weeks, I sense God wanting me to work in my home country. Every time I talk to friends, I mentioned my plans now that I'm graduating soon and would very soon join the workforce and the reply I got from them were that their company has vacancies in accounting and if I'm interested I could pass my resume to them because it would be easier for me to get the job when I'm internally recommended by them or something along that line. I wondered, how come they never hear the part where I want to work overseas? I mean, won't they encourage me to work overseas? Aren't they sick of the hot weather here? This is not from one person but a few so I get the message. Loud and clear now.

Therefore, my future plans are going to be like this after completing my degree in UK this year, I'm going to look for a job in Malaysia. Afterall, "in their hearts human plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps" (Proverbs 16:9, NIV).

Passed my exams

2011-02-11T10:46:00.002+08:00

Got my exams results today. I passed everything. Praise the Lord. Thank You Jesus for Your grace. This means that I'll be sitting for my CIMA exams in May, 3 papers and I'll be going to study in UK in June.

So to all my juniors, the final semester is manageable. I was busy completing my assignments and did not have much time to study for my exams. I only started preparing towards the end of my semester and there wasn't sufficient time to prepare myself.

I had an agonizing time while waiting for my results because while studying for my CIMA exams I realised many mistakes I made in my exams. So I'm glad I passed everything.

Vicky

Study all day, play all night

2011-01-27T13:31:00.002+08:00

I just finished my exams but I'm still in nerd mode because I have to prepare for my CIMA exams in May. Currently studying online instead of attending classes at a tuition centre. Studying online has it's pros and cons but as long as I have the discipline I think I should be able to do it. Right now, my study timetable is pretty hectic as I have to prepare for 3 papers in May and May isn't very far away. I study in the morning and afternoon from Monday to Saturday.

All work and no play makes me a dull person so I do set aside time to relax. While I study during the day, I don't touch my textbooks or past year questions at night and on Sundays. Here's what I do when I'm not studying

watching movies ( I recently watched "21" and "Dark Knight" both good movies)
reading (I'm currently reading "Mere Christianity" by C. S. Lewis)
playing boardgames with friends
attending talks, seminars or Toastmasters meeting.
meeting up with friends just to catch up
CG meetings, church

This list is not exhaustive so if you have anything interesting going on just hit me up.

Happy Chinese New Year in advance, Gong Xi Fa Cai!

Vicky

Day trip: KL

2011-01-17T13:19:00.004+08:00

Last Saturday, I went out with some of my course mates to KL. We were in KL from 10am - 10pm and I reached home really late. This is like the longest trip I've ever went out with friends within Klang Valley.

Anyway, KL is accessible by various public transport like the monorail, LRT, buses so there is no worries about not being able to get there. Usually, people don't drive to KL. The traffic jam can drive you mad and the parking rates is crazy. After all, it's cheaper to just take the public transport.

We met at KLCC. Walked around the park and took lots of pictures. After that while walking through KLCC Convention Centre, we noticed a dental exhibition going on so we asked if we can go in to have a look. They said yes and gave us visitor passes. One of my secondary schoolmate was working there. She recognised me. We tried out some new stuff like a new anti-bacterial hand sanitizer. The first of its kind in Malaysia. I like how it's foamy, which means if I use it while in a train, at least it won't spill all over the floor and cause a mess. Another new product that we tried is Listerine's latest product which was just launched that day. It's less spicy than the other products and I like the colour. It's purple in colour. We also watched a new technology where dentists can use that software to explain to customers the procedure involving certain treatments and the results after a few years as well as comparison between different procedures. I think dentists who have more capital to spare could consider investing in this software as it helps patients make more informed decisions. The benefits will also exceed the costs as it won't cost a bomb to upgrade the software.

Time passed really fast, and soon it was lunch time. Since we wanted to have lunch at Lot 10, we all walked from the convention centre to Pavilion and from Pavilion to Lot 10. Not very far, walking distance, provided it doesn't rain. If not we can sprint our way there.

There's this food court in Lot 10 where almost all the famous "makan" places in Klang Valley are there. It's like the branch of those famous places there like Hon Kee porridge, Kayu Nasi Kandar and so. We each ordered one type and tried each other food. It was all very delicious and I felt really full after eating all that food. Now, we don't have to travel all over KL looking for those places, we can just go to Lot 10 and it's there.

Oh, other random things we did before having lunch was taking pictures with people we don't know and since Crocs was giving out balloons, we took those balloons and gave out to kids we saw along the way.

Back to Lot 10. After eating, we went to the top floor just to see what's there. Since I've never been to Lot 10 before. You can't blame me. I live in PJ and everything I want or need is nearby, I don't go down to KL unless there's a good reason to, like a trip with friends. On the top of Lot 10. There's a gym, Actor's studio (where you can watch plays. Yoshida Brothers will be performing there but tickets are sold out), there's a restaurant there too with a nice green lawn. We took more pictures up there.

After that, we went to National Geographic store on the 3rd floor. Took more pictures and admire their pictures and wished we could take pictures like them.

Once we're done with Lot 1o, we went to Pavilion. Received sweets from a guy who dressed up as the God of Prosperity. Beat the drums on display since they allowed us to do so and yeah, took more pictures.

Then we decided to go to Berjaya Times Square which is within walking distance from Pavilion but we had to pass through Sungai Wang where a few of my friends registered as voters. Yay!

Did some shopping at Berjaya Times Square and had dinner at Sweet Chat cafe. Were planning to have either to have karaoke/movie/bowling session together but it was kind of late, by the time we finished dinner, it was already 8.30pm and I felt very full. Not to worry, I still have time to lose 10kg by the end of 2011.

We decided to take the bus instead of taking the monorail back but didn't realise it was raining. Thank God it wasn't raining heavily if not I'm going to see a lot of "I'm sick" status updates on Facebook the next day.

In order to take the bus, we had to walked from Berjaya Times Square to outside McD where we saw a few Metro buses waiting there. We boarded one heading to our destination and that the end of our KL day trip.

This was a fun and memorable trip with my friends and I hope we can go on more trips together in the future which would be harder to plan since we're all graduating and going different directions but we can certainly make time for each other.

Vicky

2011 resolutions

2010-12-29T21:04:00.002+08:00

I make a list of resolutions almost every year since I first heard of the term and found out what it is about. I find that having goals gives us something to strive towards to in life, just my opinion. I need a direction, something to work towards to in life, a deadline, discipline.

This year, I decided to list my 2011 resolution differently. I decided to list it on 43things.com and decided to have only 3 items on the list. Well, I can have more but I think it's more achievable if I just focus on 3 instead of, say, 10.

Listing it on 43things.com also allows me to see who else have the same resolution as me so that I won't feel so alone in trying to achieve it. Reading their entry regarding their efforts towards achieving those resolutions will also sort of encourage me. Furthermore, it is connected to my Facebook so my friends who read that post will hopefully keep me accountable. The reason why I didn't achieve some of my resolutions in the past is because there is no accountability.

Anyway, here's my 3 resolutions for 2011.

Lose 10KG by year end.
Pass my exams, specifically internal exams as I would require more than a year to complete all my CIMA papers.
Learn a new recipe every month.

Happy new year in advance!

Vicky

How to kill a snake

2010-12-04T11:15:00.002+08:00

I was reading the Bible this morning and the passage is Genesis 3 and as I was reading this passage aloud (I usually read the Bible aloud), I came across verse 15 which gives us a hint on how to kill a snake and if snakes could read, how a snake could kill a human, considering how dangerous a snake can be, and a bite by a snake could kill a person.

"And I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and hers; he will crush your head, and you will strike his heel." - Genesis 3:15, NIV.

If you're wondering who's the you in this verse, it refers to the serpent or the snake. I have never been attacked by a snake before, though I've seen many and touched some, mostly at zoos. But if I ever see a snake in the wild, I try to crush its head. Easier said than done.

Hope we never have to kill a snake,
Vicky

Langkawi: In Words

2010-11-10T20:49:00.002+08:00

Last weekend, I went with my family to Langkawi. It's an island in Malaysia. We went there by Firefly. The plane left on time and I had a comfortable ride. The muffins served on the plane was really fresh and tasty.

The hotel we stayed in was Hotel Bahagia, a new hotel but with aggressive advertising as I see pamphlets of the hotel almost everywhere. The room was rather not too big, not too small. Anyway, I won't be expecting too much from a budget hotel. Service was excellent.

On the second day, we rented a car and drove around Langkawi. We went to a number of places such as Durian Perangin waterfalls (nice place to hike and take pictures); went to a few beaches such as black rice beach, Tanjong Rhu, Pantai Cenang; We also went to Galeri Perdana which has a collection of gifts and awards given to the former Prime Minister of Malaysia, Tun Dr. Mahatir Mohamad; we also went to Handicraft Cultural Complex where you can buy batik and watch a glass-blowing demonstration. After watching that demonstration, you would see the price tag on those glasses as expensive anymore. Real hard work; we also went shopping as Langkawi is a duty-free zone. Bought mostly chocolates.

On our last day there, we went for a private half-day tour organised by the hotel as part of the package we bought at Matta Fair. Since we went to most places already, the tour guide took us to some places we had not gone before like Cable Car and Canopy Walk, Mahsuri Tomb and Burnt Rice field.

Had a lot of seafood there. Food is cheap at the town area.

Hope to go to Langkawi again in the future, wish to go island hopping
Vicky

Grateful to death

2010-11-02T17:53:00.003+08:00

I'm currently reading Like a Flowing River by Paulo Coelho. There are plenty of inspiring and profound stories in there and I'm only halfway through. I'm quite reluctant to put the book down from the moment I started reading it. But I have to, as I have tests to study for, assignments to complete and tutorial questions to do. Yeah, same old, same old, a pile of workload on my table waiting to be cleared, a weight on my shoulders waiting to be lighten.

Anyway, today as I was the story titled "My Funeral", these lines captured my attention and really got me thinking. Although I don't think of death often, however I know I'm not immortal. Certain events in my life will keep reminding me of that fact. I hope that when my time comes, I'll be ready to meet my Maker.

Those lines are:

And death is possibly the most important thing. We are all walking towards death, but we never know when death will touch us and it is our duty, therefore, to look around us, to be grateful for each minute. But we should also be grateful to death, because it makes us think about the importance of each decision we take, or fail to take; it makes us stop doing anything that keeps us stuck in the category of the "living dead" and, instead, urges us to risk everything, to bet everything on those things we always dreamed of doing, because, whether we like it or not, the angel of death is waiting for us.

Alright, got to go back to preparing for my test tomorrow.

Happy Deepavali!
Vicky

No time for movies

2010-10-22T09:10:00.002+08:00

I have been so busy lately. Been busy with assignments, doing tutorials, attending classes etc. So busy that I find that I have hardly much time for myself or to go out with friends for coffee, to shop or for movies.

At the start of this semester, I decided to set aside all my Sundays to rest and relax. Well, I did get to relax the first 2 weeks, I think. After that,assignments kept pouring in like a heavy downpour. To prevent myself from drowning, I decided to start doing my assignments as early as possible. Hopefully, there won't be any last minute work. And since I'm can't stop thinking about my responsibilities as a student even while resting, most of my free time are filled up doing assignments, tutorials, studying, reading books recommended by lecturers etc.

Furthermore, the holiday season is coming and soon everyone will be on holiday mood. I hope I won't be a scrooge or a party pooper then.

Anyway, if I could find the time to relax, there are some movies that I would like to watch. Most probably I would end up watching them after my final exams, so I'll be watching it on DVD. Yup, my final exam as a TARC Advanced Diploma student. I don't want to resit any papers so I have to work really hard now. First on the list is, of course, Love in Disguise, for obvious reasons. Followed by Hachiko: A dog's story because I'm a dog lover and the dog in the movie is so cute and lovable. Watch the trailer here:

Finally, a movie that will be in cinemas this December - Narnia. I'm a big fan of Narnia.

That's all, have a good weekend.
Vicky

Garden of Good and Eva

2010-10-07T08:46:00.002+08:00

I tried Garden of Good and Eva, one of the six Benefit Crescent Row fragrances. I wanted to try Laugh with me Lee Lee but there's no more perfume left in the bottle :(. So I ended I trying Garden of Good and Eva. I tried the others before, on cards given by the sales person but not on my skin yet. This time I would like to try it on my skin to test if it smells good on me.

According to Benefit, Garden of Good and Eva has a crisp and fresh citrus floral scent. I prefer scents that are fresh as it is more suitable for me. After the salesperson sprayed this scent on my wrist, I kept sniffing it because the I like the scent so much. One more good thing about it is that it lasted quite long :)

I also like the packaging of the fragrances in the Crescent Row collection. It would surely stand out when I put it on my shelf. Packaging is also one thing that I look for when buying perfume. A perfume may smell nice but if I don't like the packaging, I would not buy it.

Of course, price is important too. Since I have a budget, I would buy something within that budget and that gives value for money.

Anyway, I didn't bring that Garden of Good and Eva home with me yet. Since I'm not in a rush to buy a new fragrance, I would like to continue trying out fragrances as there are many choices available in the market today. Especially when I didn't get to try Laugh with me Lee Lee on my skin.

At the end of the day, I don't want to regret buying something.

Have a good day!

Vicky

Bukit Gambang Water Park

2010-09-13T11:07:00.002+08:00

Last Saturday, I went with my family to Bukit Gambang Water Park. It's located near Kuantan, Pahang.

We were there from morning until closing time at 6PM. I enjoyed myself at the lazy river, wave pool and the slides. Some of the slides would give you an adrenaline rush but you would need a lot of stamina to climb the stairs to the top. And in the wave pool, it's better than swimming in some of our seas as the waves can get really big. Just make sure that you're a good swimmer when the waves gets big or hold on tight to your tube. As for the lazy river, there are certain times when it's calm and certain times where there are waves. Of course, it's more fun with the waves.

What I like about this place are the slides and the cabana (which you have to rent). There are only a few cabanas around the water park so make sure you get there early before all the cabanas are rented out.

One thing that gives this water park a competitive advantage is the cashless system. We can deposit money into our wristband which has a bar code and use it to pay for food, rental of tubes or cabana etc. At the end of the day, we can get refund on the balance of money that we did not use.

This water park is ideal for families and it's cheaper than Sunway Lagoon. Plus, if you're tired of playing at the water park, you can head over to Kuantan.

Vicky.

The 18 Martial Arts

2010-09-07T15:02:00.002+08:00

I think Wang Leehom's latest album was aptly titled "The 18 Martial Arts" because Leehom is indeed versatile and talented. He doesn't stick to one genre but is constantly trying out different genre and different sounds like R&B, hip-hop, combining Chinese ethnic minority music with modern music and so on. Maybe that's why I'm a big fan of Leehom. I like variety so I don't have a favourite genre. If you ask me today what's my favourite genre, I may say hip-hop but if you ask me the same question next week, I may say rock.

In "The 18 Martial Arts", Leehom combines chinese orchestra with pop music. I didn't like it at first it could be because I'm not as exposed to chinese orchestra compared to western orchestra but after listening to the album a few times, I'm starting to appreciate it. So if you know of any chinese orchestra performance nearby do let me know. I guess appreciating this new sound created by Leehom is a cultivated taste. You've got to listen to it a few more times in order to enjoy it then you'll want to listen to it the rest of your life.

I'm game for whatever new sound Leehom is going to create in the future. Here are the music videos to some of the songs in the album.

Vicky

Exams soon

2010-08-21T10:26:00.004+08:00

My exams will start in a few days time and I think I'm almost prepared. Anyway, it's not all study, study, study for me. Last Thursday, I attended a friend's surprise birthday party planned by his brother. I tried vegetables from Sarawak (which I think was delicious) and keropok (crackers) from Indonesia. After that, we had a jamming/karaoke session followed by a tour around his house. After touring around his house, we watched Ip Man, because it was getting late, I left halfway through the movie. I think I over dressed because I was in LBD while most of them dressed quite casual, but a number of the girls were in dresses as well so I'm not alone. Furthermore, it's the first time a lot of them got to see me in a dress as I seldom wear except to go to the MPO or formal dinners.

I'll be back after my exams,

Vicky

Coraline

2010-07-26T16:14:00.002+08:00

I read book in phases. For example, when I'm in a John Grisham phase, I'll read all John Grisham books that I can get my hands on. After that phase is over, I'll move on to another phase. Phases I have been in as far as I can remember are Nicholas Sparks, Stephanie Meyer, C.S. Lewis, John Grisham, J.K. Rowling and Smallville books. Those are just those that I can remember, I've read far more books than that.

Right now I'm in a Neil Gaiman phase. So far I've read American Gods and Stardust. I finished Coraline yesterday. I started reading Neil Gaiman books when my friend started talking about them, then I asked her to lend me some of her books to read. So she lend me American Gods and Stardust. I prefer Stardust over American Gods. I borrowed Coraline from the library.

There is a movie version of this book but I didn't watch it except for probably the first 10 minutes of it on my friend's laptop in my college's library. Anyway, back to the book. I read it within 1 day, 1 sitting and 1 afternoon. That shows how good the story is. Even though this is a children book but young adults like me would enjoy it too. If I could describe Neil Gaiman through his books in one word, it would be: imaginative.

Next Neil Gaiman book that I'll be reading is "The Graveyard Book"

Vicky

What your history teacher never told you

2010-07-24T13:16:00.001+08:00

I received this from an email and copied and pasted one part of it here. Kind of creepy.

Have a history teacher explain this----- if they can.

Abraham Lincoln was elected to Congress in 1846.
John F. Kennedy was elected to Congress in 1946.

Abraham Lincoln was elected President in 1860.
John F. Kennedy was elected President in 1960.

Both were particularly concerned with civil rights..
Both wives lost their children while living in the White House.

Both Presidents were shot on a Friday.
Both Presidents were shot in the head.

Now it gets really weird.

Lincoln 's secretary was named Kennedy.
Kennedy's Secretary was named Lincoln .

Both were assassinated by Southerners.
Both were succeeded by Southerners named Johnson.

Andrew Johnson, who succeeded Lincoln, was born in 1808.
Lyndon Johnson, who succeeded Kennedy, was born in 1908.

John Wilkes Booth, who assassinated Lincoln, was born in 1839. Lee Harvey Oswald, who assassinated Kennedy,
was born in 1939.

Both assassins were known by their three names.
Both names are composed of fifteen letters.

Now hang on to your seat.

Lincoln was shot at the theater named 'Ford'.
Kennedy was shot in a car called ' Lincoln ' made by 'Ford'.

Lincoln was shot in a theater and his assassin ran and hid in a warehouse.

Kennedy was shot from a warehouse and his assassin ran and hid in a theater.

Booth and Oswald were assassinated before their trials.

And here's the kicker...

A week before Lincoln was shot, he was in Monroe , Maryland.
A week before Kennedy was shot, he was with Marilyn Monroe.

Wrapping up Week 9

2010-07-15T20:30:00.002+08:00

This is almost the end of the 9th week of my semester. In other words, final exams is just around the conner. My preparation for it is so-so. Since week 1, I've been preparing for it but in the middle, due to assignments and mid-term test, it has been taking a back seat. Now, I'm catching up.

So far, this semester has been very demanding. The gap between this semester and the last is very big. Suddenly, the way I answer questions is different. It's more towards application, case study and some creative thinking.

This week has been a busy one for me. On Monday I submitted my Risk Management assignment, while I'm going to submit my Integrated Management assignment tomorrow. Next week, is going to be another busy one. I'll be having my Moral and Ethics test on Wednesday and Financial Reporting on Friday. After that, I can relax for a while but I have to bear in mind that finals is just a few weeks away and I'm not even 50% prepared.

Oh, I would like to add another update on my favourite singer, Wang Leehom. He recently released the music video of his new single.

Another good news is that his fans in Malaysia can pre-order his album at record stores. I won't be missing out on this opportunity. I plan to do it either this week or the next.

See ya,
Vicky

Narnia & Love in Disguise trailer

2010-06-24T09:04:00.002+08:00

These are the movies I would like to watch this year, if not, next year.

The Chronicles of Narnia: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader

I've been waiting to watch this movie since I heard from friends that they'll be making this. I watch the first one and like it, watch the next one the first day it was released in cinemas and like it too. I think I'm going to like this one too. Furthermore, The Chronicles of Narnia are one of my favourite books and I don't mind reading them again and again. Same goes for the movies, I don't mind watching them again and again.

Love in Disguise

Number 1, I'm a big fan of Wang Leehom. Number 2, I like watching comedies. Put them together and I think they make a good reason for me to watch this movie. After all, laughter is the best medicine and I do need a really good laugh after all the stress I'm having this semester. I heard it's going to be in cinemas soon. But anyway, I think the final 2 semesters will be a stressful one for me as I'm in my final year.

This is totally unrelated but I want to congratulate England and USA for making it to the 2nd round.

One of my lecturers said that watching football (soccer) can help you release stress,
Vicky

Better Luck Next Time by Lifehouse

2010-06-06T15:23:00.002+08:00

Better Luck Next Time - Lifehouse (Live)

Lifehouse is my favourite band and this is one of my favourite songs. This video is a live version of the song. They sound really good live. I wish to go to their concert. ;) I think I would really have a great time there.

I've been busy lately. Having Risk Management test next Monday. Integrated Management test 3 weeks later. I would also be rushing assignments. Hopefully, I'll have some time to breathe.

Happy School Holidays!
Vicky

Longest break ever

2010-06-02T20:50:00.003+08:00

Had the longest break ever in my entire college life (hopefully this is the last time) from 9.30am to 4pm. During Moral and Etika lecture, I received a text message from my Financial Reporting lecture that lecture class is cancelled. So that means that after my Moral and Etika lecture ends at 9.30am, I'll be having a break until my Moral and Etika tutorial class at 4.30pm.

So after lecture ended, I went out with my classmates to Taman Bunga Raya to eat. After that, we went to Wangsa Walk, a newly opened shopping mall near my college to watch Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time since every Wednesday is cheap movie ticket day. When I looked around the movie hall I noticed that 1) most of them are students 2) they're probably from TAR College. I think if I threw a stone, it might hit someone from TAR College.

I think Prince of Persia was good but not great. The good parts of the movie are the action scenes and effects.

After the movie, we went to Popular Bookstore because some of my friends wanted to buy some books. I found two books there that I really wish to buy. They are "What the Dog Saw: And other adventures" by Malcolm Gladwell and "Diary of a Wimpy Kid" by Jeff Kinney. I read just the first few pages of both books. Maybe next time because I don't want to carry more books in my already heavy bag, plus I already spent so much on a few academic books recently that I don't feel like spending more at that moment.

We grabbed a bite then Eileen and I walked around Cold Storage before heading back to college for class.

:)
Vicky

The Five Love Language for Singles

2010-05-29T11:29:00.002+08:00

I just finished reading "The Five Love Language for Singles" by Gary Chapman. According to this book, there are 5 love languages namely:
Quality time
Acts of Service
Words of Affirmation
Gifts
Physical touch

Each of us has a primary love language which is one of the above. Some of us may have two.

While reading this book, I learned how to identify the love language of those close to me. I also discovered my love language which is quality time.

This book is targeted to singles. Before this version, there is one for married couples. I urge all of you to read this book. I believe knowing and speaking a person's love language can help improves relationship.

At the end of this book, there's a quiz you can take to find out your love language. For more information visit Five Love Languages website.

All you need is love,
Vicky

Skinfood Peach Sake Pore BB Cream

2010-05-17T13:56:00.003+08:00

Skinfood Peach Sake Pore BB Cream (Googled image)

I absolutely love the scent of peaches in this product. It smells really pleasant. It is easy to apply and blend and I can see an immediate result on my face after I put it on. I see an immediate result after using this product. My complexion looks much better. It is suitable for oily skin. It managed to control the oil on other parts of my face, however, my nose seems like a lost cause. It comes with SPF 20 PA+ but for someone who spends quite some time outdoors, I would require a higher SPF. I'm pleased with this product and will continue using it.

Happy Skinfood Peach Sake Pore BB Cream user,
Vicky

3D2N Penang: Day 3

2010-05-08T18:16:00.002+08:00

My last day Penang. Since I slept late the night before, I decided to wake up slightly later today. Had wan tan mee for breakfast at Chowrasta Market. The difference between the wan tan mee here and the one I usually have in KL is the one I had has lard in it making it tastier which also means that it is non-halal.

Went back to our hotel after breakfast as we have to packed our bags and check out before going for the ground tour arranged by our hotel. Actually, they contacted a local tour guide and told the guide that we're interested in a tour. The guide picked us up from the hotel at 9.30 a.m. in his car. Along the way, he pointed to us various places of interest like Penang Governor house, Millionaire Street, Christian Cemetery, famous schools and hospitals.

Our first stop was Kek Lok Si. To go to the Pagoda, entrance fee is RM2, while to take the cable car up to the Kwan Ying statue, it cost RM4 return ticket. After that I had Assam Laksa and coconut water at a coffee shop near Kek Lok Si.

After that, he took us to Coffee Tree where we can try out all sorts of coffee, chocolate, tea and honey for free. You name it, they probably have it. The place looks popular with Middle Eastern tourist as I saw a lot of notices or signs written in Arabic. The Penang White Coffee is nice, in fact it's the most popular coffee among customer in the shop judging by the number of packs on display. I bought some home.

The next stop is Penang Botanic Garden since we can't go up to Penang Hill. Though we can either take a jeep up which is expensive or hike up which is something I might do in the future with a bigger group of friends. You can hike up to Penang Hill from Botanic Garden it takes about 1-2 hours depending on how fit you are. There are plenty of monkeys at the Botanic Garden and they dare to snatch water bottles from tourist.

Next, we went to see the reclining Buddha (4th longest in the world) which is in a Thai temple and a Burmese temple opposite. That was our last stop then the guide dropped us off at our hotel. From our hotel, we went to a shop nearby for lunch. Then we went to McDonald's in Prangin Mall to kill time since we have to be at Five Stars office to wait for the van to send us to Sungai Nibong bus terminal at 4 p.m. Arrived in 1 Utama around 9.30 p.m.

I hope to go back to Penang again some day. The next time to stay at Hard Rock Hotel and probably to hike up Penang Hill (if I'm fit enough.)

Had a great holiday in Penang
Vicky

P.S. Pictures of my Penang trip are on my Facebook.

3D2N Penang: Day 2

2010-05-07T13:19:00.002+08:00

If you don't know your past, you'll be like a leaf that doesn't know you're part of a tree - The Little Nyonya

Woke up early in the morning. Had breakfast at Line Clear near my hotel. This place is famous for it's Nasi Kandar but since I don't really fancy Nasi Kandar so I had Roti Canai and teh tarik instead. After that, we walked around Chowrasta Market. This market is way better than the night market in Batu Ferringhi. I think the one in Batu Ferringhi is catered towards tourists while you'll usually see locals at Chowrasta market. Saw the famous popiah skin maker, didn't buy any because I don't have the ingredients to make popiah there. I wouldn't mind just eating the popiah skin (it's fresh!) but my friend would think I'm weird.

After walking the whole stretch of the market, we took a CAT shuttle bus which is free of charge to Little India. Little India wasn't what I had in mind, maybe I went there too early. After that, I had a plate of Char Kuey Teow at a coffee shop a stone throw away from Pinang Peranakan Mansion. When I finished my Char Kuey Teow, we walked over to the Pinang Peranakan Mansion. It looks small from the outside but huge in the inside. I like the architecture of this house as well as the Baba Nyonya culture. I think the people in those times were innovative and resourceful. The tour guide was good in explaining the Baby Nyonya culture and lifestyle. I think he watched "The Little Nyonya" too. "The Little Nyonya" and "Iron Lady" was filmed in Pinang Peranakan Mansion. The tour guide also gave some tips on how to live a long and healthy life. Among other tips he gave, he warned us not to use plastics and Styrofoam.

After the tour in Pinang Peranakan Mansion, we walked over to Jin Shi for some tea. I drank tea and rest while my friend drank tea and read the books there. Then we headed to Fort Cornwallis, Esplanade and the surrounding areas to take some pictures. When we are done, we took the CAT shuttle bus to Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion. "Blue Mansion" was filmed here. Cheong Fatt Tze is super rich and I think he is a good business man. The guided tour is at 11am and 3pm sharp. It's a hotel too but I think I would have to pay through my nose. By the way, Cheong Fatt Tze is opposite the hotel where I stayed, Cathay Hotel.

We had dinner in Gurney Drive. I had fried oyster, assam laksa, tau foo fa and many more there. While waiting for the bus back to Komtar, I talked to a couple from Indonesia who were waiting for the same bus. They stay near my hotel. My Bahasa Malaysia is still good because they understood every word that I say and I was able to converse with them fluently.

When we got back, we went to Red Garden opposite my hotel for supper. I had Ais Kacang which came with a scoop of ice cream on top. They also added some soda into the ais kacang.

Vicky

P.S. Day 3 tomorrow. Pictures are on my Facebook.

3D2N Penang: Day 1

2010-05-06T15:40:00.002+08:00

Took Five Stars Express bus from 1 Utama to Penang in the morning. The whole journey took about 4 and a half hours. The seat is comfortable and spacious. It can recline and there's enough leg room. During the journey, I watched Narnia: Prince Caspian. The Chronicles of Narnia is my favourite storybook. I think I watched this movie a few times, I don't mind watching it another time. I can't wait to watch The Chronicles of Narnia: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader which will be released in December 2010.

When we (my friend and I) arrived in Penang, it took us quite a while to find the hotel as we weren't familiar with the roads and some of the locals only know the road names in Mandarin/Hokkien. However, we managed to find Cathay Hotel (the hotel we stayed in) after walking for what seemed to me like hours under the hot sun. Felt relieved to finally found the hotel. My first impression of the hotel is that it is beautiful in its own way. I like the architecture and interior design. It gives you the "back to 100 years ago" feel. Something that can't be found in modern hotels. Don't worry, the facilities are pretty modern. The room rate didn't burn a hole in my pocket either.

After checking in, putting down our bags, we took Rapid Penang 101 from Penang Road to Batu Feringghi to check out Hard Rock Hotel. It costs RM2.70 one way. Took a lot of pictures there. Every rock lovers must visit this hotel at least once in his/her life. I got caught up taking so much pictures in the lobby, swimming pool, beach, outside the hotel. I think I took the most photos here. When my stomach started making noises (not rock music), I realised I haven't had my lunch and dinner yet so we made our way to Hard Rock Cafe. At the cafe, I took some more pictures while waiting for my food to arrive. I really like the beef patty in the HRC Burger that I ordered, it's so juicy. I had it done medium rare.

I met a pleasant staff there, her name is Laida. So when you go to Hard Rock Cafe in Batu Feringghi, Penang, tell her I said "Hi." From today onwards, I'm going to save up enough money to spend a night at Hard Rock Hotel Penang just for the experience.

After eating, we went to the night market nearby. It was quite a disappointment. Then we went back to our hotel to bathe and sleep.

Vicky.

P.S. 3D2N Penang: Day 2 tomorrow. Pictures are on my Facebook.

What's God's will for me?

2010-04-30T14:35:00.003+08:00

I have been asking questions like "What's God's will for me?"and "What's my purpose in life?" a number of times. I even asked friends to pray for me so that I'll find an answer to those questions. Well, my prayers were not answered until recently when I read this book which I borrowed from my church library. The book is - Cure for the Common Life: Living in Your Sweet Spot by Max Lucado. When I borrowed the book I thought it was getting out of complacency. I don't even know what's sweet spot to begin with. However this book answered my question on God's will for me.

To know what's God's will, I would need to know my S.T.O.R.Y.

S - Strengths. The things I naturally do to accomplish what I love.

T - Topics. Things I prefer to work on.

O - Optimal conditions. Where and when I am most engaged.

R - Relationships. How I prefer to relate to people.

Y - Yes!. The outcomes that gives me the most satisfaction and joy.

As I was finding out what's my S.T.O.R.Y. I realised that I'm on the right track to fulfilling God's destiny for me.

I'm currently a Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA) student. CIMA equips me with the relevant skills and knowledge so that I can contribute in my future workplace. In other words, I'm studying what I enjoy and when I graduate, hopefully get a job I enjoy doing. Most importantly, I'm doing what God had created me to do.

Read this book to find out your S.T.O.R.Y.

Happy Labour Day in advance!
Vicky

The Simpsons Movie

2010-04-21T20:12:00.002+08:00

I finally watched The Simpsons Movie.

The Simpsons and me
I remember when I was young, I used to watch Simpsons on TV. My favourite character is Lisa, still is. When my cousin went to Spain, she got me an exercise book with Bart Simpson on the cover.

What I think of the movie?
This movie focuses mainly on The Simpsons, nothing much from the other characters in this movie. If I can describe this movie with one word, it would be this: hilarious. I've never watch a good slapstick comedy for quite some time. Though it can be quite adult at times. The plot is simple and if there is a The Simpsons Movie 2, I think I'll go watch it.

Currently listening to Lifehouse live shows on Youtube,
Vicky

The Guardian

2010-04-05T18:18:00.002+08:00

About 2 weeks ago I started reading Nicholas Sparks novels. So far I had only read 3 of his books i.e. Nights in Rodanthe, A Bend in the Road and The Guardian. Among the 3 books that I read, The Guardian is my favourite so far. It's a love story plus a thriller. So it keeps you on the edge of your seat.

The hero of this story in my opinion is a Great Dane named Singer. I like stories and movies involving dogs. My favourite movie involving a dog at the moment is 1o Promises to My Dog, which is a Japanese movie. My favourite books involving dogs are in the non-fiction category, Marley and Me. Marley reminds me so much of my own dog. In the fiction category is this one, The Guardian.

There are romance writers and then there is Nicholas Sparks. His books are really great and it's worth your time reading them. You'll fall in love with his stories immediately.

Can't wait to read Nicholas Sparks next novel, The Wedding
Vicky

Play On

2010-03-23T10:11:00.003+08:00

I think Carrie Underwood took more risks with this album and I think the risks she took, work well for her. In my opinion, this is her best album yet. She also wrote more songs in this album than the last and I hope to see her writing all the songs in her album on her own in the future.

She has stronger vocals and better interpretation of songs. It's obvious in songs like "Look at Me", "Someday when I stop loving you", "Mama song", "Temporary home" and so on.

I like the duet with Sons of Sylvia in "What can I say" though I've never heard of this band before but in one part, I think Carrie Underwood outdid them.

There are also a number of fast songs in this album, among all the fast songs I like "Play On" the most, an amazing song which provides a nice ending to the whole album.

Play on Carrie Underwood!
Vicky

Assam Laksa for the 1st time

2010-03-16T13:18:00.002+08:00

Had dinner at Cinta Ria@DJ yesterday and I ordered a bowl of Assam Laksa. So two first here, first time eating at Cinta Ria@DJ and first time eating Assam Laksa.

I always thought that Assam Laksa is super spicy. I used to picture myself, sweating and drinking lots of water with plenty of ice in it because the spiciness is burning my tongue, and yes I'll be sweating too. But when I tried this, it wasn't as spicy as I imagined it would be. In fact I enjoyed eating it. I like sour dishes. So it was sour enough to for me. This dish cost RM7.50 which I think was reasonable for a restaurant like this.

If you don't know where this restaurant is, it's beside a restaurant famous for its claypot rice in Damansara Jaya. The signboard for Cinta Ria@DJ is in red so you can't miss it.

Assam Laksa is on my food list when I go to Penang,
Vicky

Kris Allen

2010-03-02T10:12:00.002+08:00

Kris Allen has been my favourite since I watched his Top 36 performance on American Idol Season 8. I think that was the best performance that day. I could remember that performance till today. Since that performance, I've been looking forward to seeing Kris perform every week. I was elated when he won American Idol.

This post is regarding his debut self-titled album.

In this album, he showed more than just his ability to sing. He also showed his ability to write songs, with 9 tracks in this album co-written by him.

There's a balance of fast numbers and slow songs in this album. The themes in this album are life and love. "Let It Rain" and "Lifetime" provides encouragement during tough times. I find "Live Like We're Dying" catchy and meaningful. "Heartless" is different than the one in he sang in American Idol but this version is as good as the one he performed in the show. I think it was a good thing that "No Boundaries" was not included in this album. My favourite song on this album is "Red Guitar" a song which he wrote pre-Idol which is basically about a guitar that he got for his wife.

Salespeople from two different stores tried to persuade me to buy Adam Lambert's debut album but I don't intend to buy his album though I like a few of his songs because I'm not a fan of Adam Lambert.

Watch the performance that caught my attention, here.

Kris Allen - Man in the Mirror

Vicky

Avatar

2010-02-24T12:59:00.002+08:00

I see blue
- X Japan "Last Song"

When I watched Avatar, I saw a lot of blue and green. While watching this movie, it reminded me a lot about Pocahontas which I used to watch a lot when I was still playing Barbie dolls. I used to have a Pocahontas Barbie doll and the dress can change colour when put under the sun. Anyway, in Avatar, Jake Sully is like John Smith and Nyetiri is like Pocahontas. Watching Avatar is like watching Pocahontas with modern technology thrown in.

One thing I like about this movie is that it's nice to look at which I think is the saving grace for this movie. One thing I don't like about this movie is that it is boring.

I wouldn't watch this movie a second time but I might want to watch Little Big Soldier a second time because it has a good sense of humour.

No offence to those who like Avatar
Vicky

Little Big Soldier

2010-02-20T14:37:00.004+08:00

I watched this movie yesterday at GSC Tropicana City Mall. I like watching movies at Tropicana City Mall because there's less people. The movie was also shown in Hall 1 which I like for it's comfortable seats and enough leg room. The hall was less than half filled.

This is not a detailed historical movie, so if you're looking for a movie on the battles during the Warring Era in China, this is not the movie you're looking for.

Little Big Soldier focuses on two people, that is a soldier (Jackie Chan) from Liang who wants to be a farmer and to be discharged from war who captured a general (Wang Leehom) who is also the Prince of Wei.

Jackie Chan portrayed his character well. I enjoyed his humourous antics and I think he's got all the best lines. Wang Leehom, still a rookie at acting, I think has improved a lot. Well done Leehom! It's hard to recognise him in this movie.

The cinematography in this movie is good. I feel like watching this movie a second time.

If you're thinking of watching this movie, just don't expect a lot of battle scenes and prepared to laugh a lot while watching this movie. I would give this movie an A.

That's my Chinese New Year movie.
Vicky

Never Suck a Dead Man's Hand: Curious Adventures of a CSI

2010-02-11T10:47:00.002+08:00

If you think this book is like the CSI you watch on TV, you might be very disappointed. This book is a memoir of Dana Kollman's (the author) experience as a CSI.

The real CSI, don't wear expensive business suits, anyway it's not a good idea to wear an expensive business suit or high heels when you'll be stepping on brain matter, digging a forgotten grave site. Yeah, and this book can get very graphic and funny. It was an eye opener for me as I don't really watch CSI but I watch Fringe, does that count?

The way she recounts the stories makes it comes alive as if you went for a "ride along" with her. In a nutshell, this is the real deal of being a CSI, so if you ever consider being a CSI or just being curious about what a CSI really do, read this book.

I picked up this book because of the book title and the interesting cover of a lollipop with flies.

Happy Chinese New Year!
Vicky

What Jackie Chan says about Leehom

2010-02-06T12:40:00.004+08:00

Jackie Chan after working with Wang Leehom in his movie, "Little Big Soldier" which is coming to the cinemas near you soon has nothing but praises for the talented Leehom.

"God has been too fair with him. Why, he's almost perfect. He can play any musical instrument, write scripts, do musical arrangements, compose tunes, pen lyrics, sing his own songs while playing his own accompaniment, and produce, and produce his own albums. English songs, Cantonese songs and Mandarin songs ... he can do them all. He's also very handsome and can act. And, he's very hardworking too. His success is truly well-deserved. You might have seen hardworking people, but you might have never seen anyone as diligent as him. Why, he's even more hardworking than me. I'd known that he's good, but I never imagined him to be that good. Maybe it's all fresh and new to him. He'd keep practising whatever I teach him. It's like he's continuously making preparations for future projects. Even though he might not actually have any need to wield a staff or a sabre any time soon, he'd still keep on training."

Now you see why I admire Wang Leehom so much? It's not all about his looks, although I admit he's handsome but it's his talents, passion and dedication that I admire the most. Watching "Little Big Soldier" is on my to-do list.

"Little Big Soldiers" will be released in cinemas on 14 February 2010.
Vicky

Revolutionary Road

2010-02-04T14:35:00.002+08:00

Just finish reading this book last night before I went to bed. Since I have 2 more chapters to go, I decided to just finish the book instead of continuing the story today.

Reading this book is like walking on a straight road where you can't really see the path ahead. It's about a couple who lives on Revolutionary Road. The guy has a stable but dull job, pretty wife, two kids and a home in the suburbs. As you're walking down this path, you see them chatting with their neighbours, they seem to look down on their neighbours. Then you see a turn, this couple now plans to go to Europe, to Paris to be exact. They're really excited about it. They can go to Paris start over again and live an extraordinary life. But then there's another turn, the girl got pregnant and they have to change their plans. So they decided not to move. And things went downhill from there.

It's a sad story with a sad ending. The story didn't turn out like how I expected it to be that's why I described this book as a road with many twists and turns.

Have a nice weekend,
Vicky

Ocean Eyes

2010-01-28T15:25:00.002+08:00

Golf and alcohol don't mix
And that's why I don't drink and drive
Because good grief, I'd knock out my teeth
And have to kiss my smile goodbye
-Adam Young/Owl City, Dental Care

On the cover Owl City's Ocean Eyes album isn't a yacht as I thought instead it's a building on the sea. I can hit the replay button on this album few times in a day and yet never get bored of the songs. The songs always feel fresh every time I listen to it again. The lyrics are really meaningful, deep and witty. "Meteor Shower" is the shortest song in the album but it has really deep lyrics. Another song, "Vanilla Twilight" seems to tug at my heartstrings. I can relate to "The Saltwater Room" too, beautiful song.

"The Bird and The Worm" and "Dental Care" can make you laugh while listening to it. There are other upbeat/positive songs in this album like "Fireflies", "The Tip of the Iceberg" and "Cave In" that makes you look at the bright side and smile :)

A lot of people said that it takes time to warm up to Owl City's music but somehow I feel that his music draws me in and I feel so at home. The man behind Owl City has great musical talent and I look forward to listening to more of Owl City in the future.

Be his fan on Facebook, you'll like his witty wordplay on his status updates which is oh-so humorous at times.

By the way, I finished Mr. Siao Mandarin Class Season 1 and also watched Blood Diamonds yesterday. After watching Blood Diamond, you'll never look at diamonds the same way again. Ever. You won't want to call them your best friend.

"In America, it's bling bling. But out here it's bling blang." Danny Archer, Blood Diamond
Vicky

Walking tour around KL

2010-01-27T11:53:00.002+08:00

Went out with Ai Vee yesterday. This is the first time we went out together since we graduated from secondary school. Can you believe it?

We took the LRT to Petaling Street. The only thing we did there was to eat and eat some more. I had Tong Kee egg tart, Longan drink which is a must try on Petaling Street, Yong Tau Foo and Chee Cheong Fun which is in a market, you must walk in from some dark alley next to 7 Eleven. After that we went to buy some cookies for Chinese New Year. I bought a jar of Seaweed Biscuit at a discount. I always doubted my negotiation skills but at least I managed to negotiate a discount. However, there's always room for improvement. Need to negotiate more. Then I went to buy a piece of this pulut thing that is sold at Yau Char Kwai stalls at another stall. I always buy the same thing from the same stall everytime I go to Petaling Street and I won't get bored of it or try another stall because the one sold here is good. After that, Ai Vee bought Tau Foo Fa because we saw a lot of students buying from that stall. Then we walk to a skin clinic at Jalan Pudu because Ai Vee wants to buy cleanser. We thought it would be very far from Petaling Street but it wasn't, in my opinion. Since I was already full, I didn't get to try all the food I wanted to try.

From the skin clinic, we walked to Bukit Bintang area because we can see Berjaya Times Square from where we were standing so it looks quite near. As we were walking there, I remember the Turkish ice cream I wanted to try at BB Plaza. We took the long way to BB Plaza. Long story. Anyway, I got to try the ice cream, double scoop at RM5. The single scoop cost RM3. Not hard to find, it's located outside BB Plaza near some traffic lights. The man did a performance while serving me. Go check it out. I wish all ice cream stalls did that.

From there we walked to Pavillion which is near KLCC because Ai Vee will be meeting her friend at KLCC. From Pavillion, there's an overhead bridge with a sign that says to KLCC Convention Center. After you get down the bridge, you'll pass some building and eventually get to the Convention Center which is next to KLCC.

Wanted to go to Galeri Petronas but it was closed. So we went chatted at the foodcourt. It's a small world. Ai Vee's friend is coursemates with some of the cell group members which my cell group joined 2 weeks ago. After that we walked around KLCC and since the rain has stopped. (God is good! It only started to rain where we were already inside the convention center.) We went walk around the park and took some photos. Then went back in KLCC, but since it was rush hour and the LRT will definitely be packed like sardines, we decided to stay back and have our dinner at KFC. We went home after that.

That's the end of my self-guided walking tour in KL.
Vicky

Advertisement break

2010-01-25T12:18:00.004+08:00

Taking a short break from watching Mr Siao's Mandarin Class Season 1 on Youtube. Now I'm at episode 6 already. Plan to finish the whole of season 1 by this week.

I watched a few episodes of season 1 on NTV7 before but due to time constraints I did not get to finish the whole series. I find it very funny, like LOL kind of funny. It's a made in Malaysia mandarin comedy.

Catch Mr Siao's Mandarin Class Season 1 reruns on NTV7, every Thursday at 11PM.

Season 2 will be released in April.

Advertisement break is over,
Vicky

1st day after finals

2010-01-23T10:18:00.003+08:00

Went to 1 Utama yesterday after my last paper yesterday. Was there for a short while, around an hour. Initially, I didn't plan to go 1 Utama at all but this was what made me decide to go there.

One Sunday, I was alone at home, my family went to visit my aunt. So, I was at home reading newspaper while eating my breakfast which is just bread with butter and strawberry jam when I came across an album review on Owl City's Ocean Eyes. If you read my earlier post, you'll know that I like listening to Owl City recently. After reading the review, whether good or bad I had decided to buy Ocean Eyes since now I know that it's available in Malaysia. Nothing is going to make me change my mind.

One good thing about The Star is that they usually offer 15% discount off albums they review. You can get the discount as long as you're cut out the coupon and present it to the cashier when you purchase the album.

I'm listening to the album now, I'll write a review after playing the album for a couple of days.

Anyway, when I was paying for the album, I saw right in front of the counter X Japan Live in Hong Kong DVDs. I can't believe my eyes, Adrian and Andrew should see the look on my face, they'll never see the same expression another time. I never thought I can find a X Japan album here in Malaysia, let alone a recent concert DVD placed in front of the counter. I couldn't even find their album in HMV near City Hall MRT station when I was in Singapore.

I guess when you're not searching too hard for something, that thing you're looking for will appear just in front of your eyes.

Oh, I didn't buy the DVD in the end, shall wait for my friend who's a big fan of X Japan to buy it, then I'll borrow it.

Happy semester break AMA1 friends!
Vicky

Fingertips story

2010-01-19T10:50:00.002+08:00

I read in an article in StarTwo, Monday 18 January 2010 ("Unveiling Uniqueness") that our fingertips patterns can reveal our personality, inborn talents and what not.

Here's what my fingertips reveal about me according to the article:

I have high levels of initiative, enthusaism and determination.
I may also be independent, competitive and bossy.
I have the ability to think out of the box and can easily adapt to different environments. (The thinking out of the box thing seems true. My finance lecturer said that I tend to think over the box sometimes. So if she sees and out of the world answer when marking Finance paper, she can bet that it's mine.)

2 more papers to go. Exams end this Friday. Thank you for keeping me in your prayers.
Vicky

Owl City

2009-12-23T16:14:00.004+08:00

Stumbled upon Owl City while looking for music videos to watch on Youtube. The first song I listened to was "Fireflies". One word summarizes my thoughts on that song, "Wow!". After listening to that song, I listened to his other songs and as his other songs are as good as the first one I listened to, I ended up googling him, checked him out on his Myspace, became a fan of him on Facebook and also dropped by his official website. His genre is eletronica/pop and if you're tired of some of the songs you listen to on radio. Listen to his songs for a change. His music is like a breath of fresh air, like taking a vacation away from the polluted city where everyone looks and sound the same.

I quickly became a fan of Owl City within a few minutes or was it seconds. Listen to some of his songs and you'll agree that Owl City is simply amazing, like the one you've been waiting for all these years. Owl City isn't a band. Everything you hear is the work of one guy, Adam Young. Something like Secondhand Serenade, where there is only one guy behind it, John Vesely.

My problem now is if his album is available in Malaysia. Now I'm listening to his songs on his Facebook and those uploaded on Youtube. I hope I can find his albums in Malaysia because I'm not keen on downloading his songs from the Internet and I'm strongly against buying pirated albums, a topic I would discuss another time.

Merry Christmas and have a fruitful New Year!
Vicky

Looking young

2009-12-16T14:41:00.002+08:00

I had English presentation today so I had to wear formal. So when when I was walking out of Kelana Jaya LRT station, a UNICEF promoter stopped me and asked if I'm a student or working. So I guess with formal clothes, I do look a bit more older.

Anyway, I found another advantage to looking young from an article in Malay Mail ("Looking young may mean living longer, says study" 15 December 2009, page 13, World section). According to a Danish study published in BMJ, people who look younger than their years also live longer. The possible bioligical explanation to this is that people who looked younger also tend to have longer telomeres which is a key DNA component linked to aging. So I guess I must have longer telomeres. I wonder what my telomeres looks like. Any medical/biology student can help me with that?

Listening to an album I won yesterday from Broadcast Communication booth. "This thing called jazz and more...vol 1". Truth be told, jazz is not my cup of tea because everytime I think of jazz, I would think of slow songs that make me sleepy. Of course there's an exception to this rule, when Lee Hom sings jazz, it's never boring even though I heard that song a million times. Overall, some of the songs are pretty nice, though some are boring. Anyway, this album is not for sale, it's written there right on the back of the album. While listening to this album, I imagine myself having a romantic dinner in an upscale restaurant.

Some songs in this album are starting to become my favorite,
Vicky

A Thousand Splendid Suns

2009-12-12T14:06:00.002+08:00

Just finished reading this book which I borrowed recently from my college's library. I had to choose between Great Expectations by Charles Dickens. This book was written by Khaled Hosseini who also wrote The Kite Runner.

Set in Afghanistan, this book tells about the hardship of 2 women, Mariam and Laila. It's about family and friendship. It gives the readers a glimpse of what life is like in Afghanistan through these two women. While reading this book, we may recognize some of the events.

Overall, a splendid, moving story. Khaled Hosseini is a good storyteller. If you enjoyed reading "The Kite Runner" you would enjoy reading this.

Hope you would read this book and enjoy it as much as I did,
Vicky

Big Thank You

2009-12-10T20:53:00.002+08:00

A big thank you to my friends and family for birthday wishes, cakes, dinners, lunchs and what not. I really appreciate it.

Exams are coming, decided to take a rest today as I'm feeling mentally tired. Continue tomorrow. I plan to start with OMIS because it's the easier subject to study right now. Actually, English is the easiest is manageable in a good way, not that worried about English, it's my strongest subject this semester. PM will be fine this time round, not much problem with it. My biggest worry is Finance. It's really difficult. That's why I'm mentally tired today. The problem is not with the lecturer, she tried her best. The problem is with the subject itself or maybe me.

Before I get more pessimistic, tomorrow is my OMIS assignment presentation and next week, I'll be presenting on Apple's marketing strategy.

That's all for now,
Vicky

Amcorp Mall after class

2009-12-02T15:13:00.002+08:00

Stopped by Amcorp Mall after class today. Haven't been to that mall for a long time. Wait, the last time I went there was in January this year, but I was there only for a few minutes. I went to Victoria Music Station which is located near the entrance, to collect my Leehom album which I pre-ordered and left.

Today, I spent much more time in Amcorp Mall. I went to Popular hoping to find a book whuch I was looking for but couldn't find it at Popular. I guess I'll have to stick to my favorite MPH. It has every book I want unless the book is out of stock. I also planned to buy an OHP pen because mine ran out of ink but couldn't find any there. :(

Before leaving, I went to Victoria Music Station just to see if Carrie Underwood and Kris Allen album is available. Guess what? it's there. The price is pretty reasonable for an original album. Can't remember the exact price but it's around RM35-RM42. Then I asked for Leehom's Music Man concert DVD. I think so far, it's the cheapest, at RM68. The other stores like Popular, Videoezy are selling higher than RM68. I'll think about getting the DVD. Anyway, my birthday is just around the corner. *hint hint*

Bought a 6-inch Subway sandwich for lunch. I ordered the sub of the day which is meatball marinara. You get to choose your own vegetable and sauce. A 6-inch sandwich is enough for a meal.

Got to go watch some Apple ads for my English presentation.
Vicky

Distrated

2009-11-30T20:45:00.002+08:00

I actually planned to do my English case study tonight. My lecturer uploaded a video on CSR and then we have to answer some questions based on that video. Nothing wrong with the questions. It's just that the video is more than 6 minutes long, and it take a long time to load and it's hard to pay attention and still remember the first line mentioned by the person in the video. Guess I have a lot of excuses/complains. In a nutshell, I hope that there is some transcript for that video.

Anyway, got distracted, since I can't keep up with someone talking about CSR, I decided to watch the new Lifehouse video, Halfway Gone. Nice song, but then again, I would say any song by Lifehouse is nice. I'm that biased. Their album Smoke & Mirrors will be released on February 2, 2010. I hope that includes Malaysia as well because I planned to buy their album around Chinese New Year time together with Carrie Underwood's and Kris Allen's. Yeah, and around that time I plan to watch that Jackie Chan movie starring Wang Leehom.

Guess what, next year Chinese New Year will clash with Valentine's day.
Vicky

Day trip to Malacca

2009-11-28T14:37:00.005+08:00

Went for a day trip with family to Melaka or Malacca (it is actually the same place. Melaka is the BM spelling, while Malacca is the English spelling)

Our first stop is the Butterfly and Reptile Sanctuary along Ayer Keroh. Actually, there are more than butterflies and reptiles there as there are also birds, monkeys, apes, a pair of leopard, fishes and insects. It's like a mini zoo.

Then we had chicken rice ball for lunch. The one we had wasn't that good, maybe we just went to the wrong place to eat. That's the same with cendol. So the next time you go to Melaka, bring along a Good Food Guide.

Wanted to go to the Ship Museum but it was closed. It seems that it is closed everytime I want to go there.

Next stop, Baba Nyonya Heritage Museum. It was formerly a Baba Nyonya house and the owner is a rich man, after he moved out, he converted it into a museum. There are guided tours but for only a small group of people at a time. I was lucky to get in, joined the last tour for the day. It costs RM8 for an adult. The guide will take you around the house, explaining about the Baba Nyonya culture. Parts of this museum was used as a setting for a Singapore TV series, Little Nyonya.

After that, we walked along Jonker Street. Bought some pineapple tarts and tried the not-so-tasty cendol.

Later on, we went to Menara Taming Sari which is a revolving observation deck from a height of 80 metres.

Had dinner at Ole Sayang for some Nyonya food, this restaurant is popular judging by the number of people who eat there. It's hard to get a table unless you're willing to wait or reserve a table in advance.

Last activity for the day is the Melaka River Boat tour. Take the one from Taman Rempah if you don't like waiting as there are less people taking this tour from that stop. There's another one near the ship museum (that's what I call it, I'm not sure what is its actual name as I never got the chance to go inside.) This stop has more people.

Enjoy your weekend,
Vicky

Love language and learning style

2009-11-22T17:57:00.002+08:00

While taking a break from studying for my Performance Management test tomorrow, I decided to take 2 test online. One is on my love language which my pastor mentioned today and I decided to check out which love language am I. And the 2nd test, learning style which is to find out the best way for me to learn something.

Love Language.

There are 5 love languages namely touch, words, quality time, gifts, and acts of service. My primary love language is acts of service while my secondary love language is words of affirmation and quality time as they both had the same score.

Learning Style.

My strength is in verbal-linguistic which I guess is pretty obvious. Followed musical and intrapersonal.

Wishing all my classmates, all the best in their tests next week!
Vicky

Marley & me

2009-11-20T21:38:00.002+08:00

Just finish reading Marley & Me: life and love with the world's worst dog by John Grogan. Finished it in the college library while waiting for my lecture to start. I had to hold back my tears while reading the last few chapters because I'm in the college library and crying there and then is not something I envision myself doing. Furthermore, I don't want people to stare at me. I can understand how the author feels when Marley passed away. You're not only losing your best friend but also something that's been part of you. You watch him grow and know him inside out. He's a big chunk of your life.

I find some of the things Marley did in this book amusing and laughed at some of Marley's antics which I also mentally compared to my own dog. Sometimes I think that my dog is the world's worst dog but he's also my closest friend.

And yes, like Marley, my dog is afraid of thunderstorms and in my dog's case, fireworks too and in Malaysia we experience thunderstorms pretty much all year round and at every celebrations like Chinese New Year, Hari Raya, Deepavali there's bound to be someone setting of fireworks and firecrackers.

My dog has also destroyed a some things in my house like shoes, curtains, fences and what not. But besides all his shortcomings I still love my dog.

This is one book I can relate to on a personal level and once you start reading this book, you'll find it hard to put down and might even consider adopting a pet.

I enjoyed reading every page in this book.
Vicky

Took 2 tests today

2009-11-11T16:05:00.002+08:00

Had my OMIS test first thing in the morning. There was only 1 question which consists of 25% but I'm not sure if I can get full marks because my answers in part (c) or was it (d) , the question that was about application packages, was kind of not-so-accurate. Anyway, OMIS case study usually depends on how well you can crap but to be able to be a pro at crapping, you need to know the subject inside out to. If not you'll have nothing to crap about.

Just took an English assessment test on Jobstreet. Even though I did better than majority (and I'm not kidding, they had the statistics to prove that.) I don't think I did that well. I think my standard of English is dropping. I guess I need to read more often. I used to read a lot in secondary school but then again, I had loads of time to read then. Now, everyday, assignments, tests, final exams and other studies related stuff will be on my mind. Anyway, no use complaining here, better improve my English before I head of to UK in a few years time.

To end on a high note, Universal Studios will be opening in Sentosa Island, Singapore next year. This means that if I plan to go to Universal Studios in the future, I don't need to go all the way to US so I can save some money. But then again, I won't be saving much as entrance tickets to amusement (or is it theme? what's the difference between amusement park and theme park anyway) park is not cheap. Haiz.

Need some music to forget about these never ending worries and stress from my mind,
Vicky

Meeting role play over

2009-11-05T20:48:00.003+08:00

Had meeting role-play for English today. Made a few mistakes but oh well, no one noticed, not even my own group members and my classmates said that my expression was very good, that I make a good actress. My role is a marketing manager from hell, she tries to look down on other people, and won't take any responsibilities for her own mistakes. The kind of colleague or boss from hell. I had to be angry and fierce in one of the parts and I think managed to not only look scary but sound scary as well. I hope I did Lee Hom justice at the part where I had to convinced them that Lee Hom would make a better brand ambassador over Lam Fung.

So I guess if I can find a job as an accountant, I should try acting, who knows I might be the next Datuk Michelle Yeoh. (oh, dream on)

The song that keeps playing in my head right now is Already Gone by Kelly Clarkson. I know it sounds a bit like Halo by Beyonce but I can relate to the lyrics in this song and the music suits this song. Watch it on Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CZ4fkyX_Fs0

I think the song is about being together with someone where you know that the both of you aren't meant to be together and letting go of that person so that he/she could be happy. I think we all face situations like this once in a while, don't we?

Got to wake up early tomorrow,
Vicky

Completed the Twilight Saga

2009-10-31T14:41:00.002+08:00

Finished reading the last book, Breaking Dawn last night. Happy ending. Somehow, I don't want it to end. There were still some things which I think Stephanie Meyer wants us, the readers, to imagine ourselves. Like not that Bella doesn't age, what will Charlie's reaction be? Or Renesmee when she grows up, what will she be like? What about the Volturi? How long will they rule? etc. etc.

Overall, I find the first book, Twilight the best, followed by the 4th book, Breaking Dawn. Something seems missing from New Moon, I can't put my finger on it however, I find it emotional. Eclipse was OK.

I know most people like Edward but I prefer Carlisle.

Can't wait to watch New Moon at the end of the year. Watch the trailer on http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KYBF3HKzrmE

Going to read some of my friends' blog and then continue calculating financial ratios for Finance assignment.

Happy Halloween, have fun!
Vicky

Nokia N97 mini

2009-10-24T13:31:00.002+08:00

I saw the advertisement for Nokia N97 mini on my blog and decided to click on it to check it out. The only thing I could not find is the price which is the most important factor for me when it comes to not only buying a phone but to everything and anything.

One thing I like the Nokia N97 mini is that it has everything I want in a phone and then some. It is cool, isn't it? I would prefer a smaller phone compared to a bigger phone because firstly, I'm a woman. I don't find it womanly carrying around a big phone. Furthermore, I don't like oversized things like oversized bags, oversized wallets however, I prefer oversized sunglasses, better sun protection.

Ok, enough talk about something I can't afford right now. To check out the Nokia N97 mini visit: http://www.nokia.com.my/find-products/all-phones/nokia-n97-mini. How I wish I have an oversized bank account.

Got to go back to analyzing financial reports for my finance assignment.
Vicky

I'm never gonna do this

2009-10-18T16:15:00.002+08:00

After reading Beyond Ugly by Constance Briscoe, I'm never going to do cosmetic surgery, ever. Unless I'm involve in an accident or something which requires me to have one.

Her detailed description of the surgery is so, well, makes me want to say "yuck!". And yes, it sounds painful. I have also read articles in magazines in the past on cosmetic surgery gone wrong, and the patient had to suffer blood infection, which kills.

The conclusion is, cosmetic surgery to me is costly and risky.

Never going under the knife
Vicky

Do I really look so young?

2009-10-14T15:14:00.002+08:00

I was walking out of the LRT station when one of those salespeople approach me, she ask me if I was in Form 4 or 5. I told her neither, I'm in college. She didn't believe me and said that I'm cute. I really don't like people mistaking me for looking younger than my real age, not at this age. But there's nothing I can do about it, all those creams and what not sold in the market are for anti-aging, anti-wrinkle, anything that can make us look younger. There's nothing to makes us look older. At least, I haven't come across any yet.

I do want to look older at this age, look mature. That's why I put on make-up sometimes, so I don't look so much like a teen when I'm not. Maybe there are good things about looking young. I don't need to worry so much about looking old, at least no one ever mistaken me for looking like I'm twice my real age. And other reasons like being the one who is being look after not the one who has to look after someone.

OK, back to the salesperson in the LRT, actually she wants to sell me a product which cost around RM15 or RM35, depending on which product. So I told her that I didn't bring any money to college because I only plan to attend classes and go straight home, not planning to spend any money. So I don't have a single cent with me. It's kind of true, I have gone to college without any money before, usually if I only have classes in the morning and will have my lunch at home.

Speaking of looking after, it reminds me of the song by The Fray "Look After You". (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1iYOOuJLuaY)

Will you look after me?
Vicky

Horrible result

2009-10-12T20:27:00.002+08:00

I took this Cyber Crimes Quiz on Discovery Tech which is part of Discovery Channel online.

Guess what my results was?

I got only 2 out of 10 correct. Here's what the summary of my result says:

0-3: Horrible
Do you even own a computer? You should DEFINITELY put your credit card on ice, and then click on the "Take this Quiz Again" link below.

Uh-oh, I guess this means that I need to start reading news on cyber crime. Ignorance is not a bliss in this case, look where it got me. And yes, I'm not going to do buy anything online until my result on the Cyber Crimes quiz improves.

You can take this quiz by clicking on this link: http://dsc.discovery.com/technology/quizzes/computer-crimes-quiz.html

Hope that you get a good score!
Vicky

Romantic love song

2009-10-10T16:54:00.003+08:00

I'm adding Longer by Dan Fogelberg to my list of love songs. It's so romantic and the music is perfect as in it suits the song. I sometimes feel that this is God's love song to me. Would be romantic if my future lover serenade this song to me.

- Dan Fogelberg Lyrics

Your Road Map for Success

2009-10-06T20:32:00.002+08:00

I used to wonder what is success? I thought it was about accomplishing something, but I was wrong. I found the answer in the book, Your Road Map for Success by John C. Maxwell. Success is defined in just 3 lines.

Success is...
knowing your purpose in life,
growing to reach your maximum potential, and
sowing seeds that benefit others.

Another thing that stand out while I was reading this book is the code of persistence written by Harold Sherman, author of How to Turn Failure into Success.

I will never give up so long as I know I am right.
I will believe that all things will work out for me if I hang on the end.
I will be courageous and undismayed in the face of poor odds.
I will not permit anyone to intimidate or deter me from my goals.
I will fight to overcome all physical handicaps and setbacks.
I will try again and again and yet again to accomplish what I desire.
I will take new faith and resolution from the knowledge that all successful men and women have had to fight defeat and adversity.
I will never surrender to discouragement or despair no matter what seeming obstacles may confront me.

I had a meeting with the external examiner and someone from CIMA today and one of the things that they said which can help us in our learning is to read a lot. I can't disagree. You'll not only learn more things, your writing skills and thinking skills will also improve greatly.

I love to read,
Vicky

Camp Rock

2009-10-05T20:16:00.002+08:00

Watched Camp Rock last night. The storyline was so-so. But I like some of the songs in the movie. My favourite is "This Is Me" by Demi Lovato. I heard her name a couple of times, at least now I have seen her movie and know how she looks like. The music video is to wide for my blog so I'll just give you the link. I actually prefer the scene where she sang this song while playing the piano.

This Is Me: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jzlxsxmDIfk

Class started today,
Vicky

Back from camp

2009-10-03T20:56:00.002+08:00

Got back from CF camp few hours ago. Got bitten by a leech on the first day of the camp while playing games.

The games and stream-trotting was fun but tiring. My sports shoe's sole came out while stream-trotting and since I brought along only 1 pair so while playing the obstacle course, it was quite uncomfortable. My body is aching now especially my arms and legs and butt (I slipped at the waterfall).

The speaker was really good. His message was really straightforward and I can sense God speaking to me through him in certain areas. It's really a wake up call for me. Let's hope I don't press the snooze button after the camp.

Food was good too. I met many new friends there, and got to know old ones better. One of the session that I like is the "car wash" session, where we had to go up to our group members and say the positive things we see in them. A very encouraging and touching session for me.

I think the theme for this camp is unity and yes, I believe we managed to achieve that in the 4 days and 3 nights.

Had an awesome time at camp and now having problems downloading next semester timetable which starts next week,
Vicky

Talent is never enough

2009-09-25T10:37:00.002+08:00

Here's a must-read for all you talented people out there. I believe everyone is talented in something whether it's music, sports or photography just that you haven't discovered it yet.

During my semester break (by the way I'm having my semester break now), I read Talent Is Never Enough by John C. Maxwell.

In this book you'll realize that talent alone is never enough, to go far, you'll need to be a talent plus person. Here's the formula to be a talent plus person.

Belief + Passion + Initiative + Focus + Preparation + Practice + Perseverance + Courage + Teachability + Character + Relationships + Responsibility + Teamwork = Talent plus person

Reading Breaking Dawn,
Vicky

Man in the Mirror

2009-09-23T20:37:00.002+08:00

I like Wang Leehom's version of Man in the Mirror. Originally sang by the late King of Pop, Michael Jackson. I like his interpretation of the song and the video he put together. Whenever I listen to him singing this song, I somehow just want to listen to it. No multitasking. I hope you get what I mean.

I think he did justice to this song. Did not massacre it. I hope he includes this song in his next album.

Wang Leehom's Man in the Mirror.

By the way, this is my favourite Michael Jackson song,
Vicky

Shopping whole day yesterday

2009-09-23T10:31:00.003+08:00

Was out the whole day yesterday.

During the day I went to Pavilion and KLCC. Nothing much to do in Pavilion, for me, because I don't really buy high end, designer stuff. Did more shopping in KLCC. Had lunch in Manhattan Fish Market. I ordered Fish and chips which was enough to last me till dinner. For drinks, I had espresso which I didn't really like.

Bought some t-shirts from Giordano. Now my style for t-shirts are slogan/statement tees. It keeps changing according to my taste. Saw a bag that I like in Parkson, will it in KIV, you know in case I really need it few months later or next year. Saw Leehom's Music Man DVD in stores. There's a special limited edition and also a normal one. The special edition comes with a Leehom figurine for RM109.90. The normal DVD is at RM69.90. I checked the price at a shop in 1 Utama, it's the same price there. Went for Music Man concert few months ago, enjoyed the concert, would be good if I could watch it close-up because my seat was quite a distance from the stage and I had to watch from the screen in front.

Was at 1 Utama until it closed. Closing time was pretty early, it's not even 10pm yet and shops are already switching off the lights and everything. Just did window shopping there.

Have a good day,
Vicky

Up

2009-09-18T21:05:00.002+08:00

I just watched Up. Didn't get to watch it in 3D, but it's ok. I think this is the best movie I watched this year. Maybe the best Pixar movie yet. Enough said.

The list of company for practical training is available on e-learning already, advanced diploma friends, please take note.

I haven't decided which company to apply to yet. Still thinking.

Selamat Hari Raya,
Vicky

The 8 Laws of Style

2009-09-17T21:21:00.002+08:00

Not too long ago, I wrote on Victoria Beckham's 10 Style commandments. This time, also from the same magazine but different issue, Glamour November 2006, is some fashion advice from Michael Kors. In case you haven't heard of him. Michael Kors is a American fashion designer, judge on Project Runway and has his own label.

Here are his 8 laws of style which I think is still practical today as it was in 2006.

"Try out your entire look in advance - not just your dress."
"Edit down your wardrobe to what you really love and know looks good on you."
"Quality doesn't have to be expensive. Things that are well designed come at every price 'honest'"
"Shop at stores with liberal return policies."
"Have a signature piece. It's the most classic way to look chic."
"Get your clothes tailored."
"Spend on the timeless basics you wear consistently; go cheap on the trendy stuff."
"Be irreverent!"

Exams Over!
Vicky

Still having exams

2009-09-10T12:12:00.003+08:00

I'm sorry for not updating for a long time. Exam season now. Just had Financial Accounting paper yesterday, will be having my next 2 papers next week.

I like this new single "Mess of Me" by Switchfoot from their new album, Hello Hurricane which is not in stores yet. I'm not sure when it'll be available in Malaysia. The song is really cool.

Apple CEO Steve Jobs recently unveiled new ipods at an Apple event. I like the new ipod nana even though I haven't seen it yet. It comes with video camera and the price has been slashed, this means I can afford one soon without burning a hole in my pocket. Other than that, it has an FM radio that can be paused live, voice recorder and a built in pedometer. Read the rest of the article: http://money.cnn.com/2009/09/09/technology/apple_event_ipod/index.htm?section=money_topstories

Can't wait to check out the new ipods,
Vicky

Fallin' For You

2009-08-25T21:15:00.002+08:00

I like this new song by Colbie Caillat, Fallin' For You. I like it because the lyrics is honest and the song makes you relax and sing along to it. She looks a bit like Jennifer Aniston in this video.

Watch it: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZgNjn9V_IKw

Everyone in my college is having the exam fever, my 1st paper is on 9/9 and ends on 17/9.

Victoria Beckham's 10 style commandments

2009-08-13T16:59:00.002+08:00

I was reading Glamour UK 2006 issue when I came across this article. I like Posh Spice style, I think she has a good taste in fashion. Well, she could make a Miss Selfridge dress look like a Gucci dress. Furthermore, she will be guest judge on American Idol season 9. Other celebrities style that I like are Jennifer Aniston and Gwyneth Paltrow.

Let's get straight to the point. Here's her 10 style commandments. I think even though it is written in 2006, it might still be relevant today.

Rule 1: Visualise your overall look.
Rule 2: Shop the world.
Rule 3: Borrow from another era.
Rule 4: Invest in some timeless classics.
Rule 5: Find your own fashion fail-safe.
Rule 6: Accessories are the bare necessities.
Rule 7: Dress from the inside out.
Rule 8: Be brave and customise
Rule 9: Trust in a few faithful opinions.
Rule 10: It's fun to experiment, but follow some classic style must-dos.

Finals in a few weeks time,
Vicky

Love Drunk

2009-08-08T11:16:00.002+08:00

I like this song from Boys Like Girls. In case you're wondering, the girl in this music video is Ashley Tisdale. She acted in High School Musical as Sharpay. She also has a role in Aliens in the Attic which will be released in Malaysia on 13 August 2009.

Got to continue doing my FA tutorial,
Vicky

Relationships Part 1

2009-07-30T17:06:00.002+08:00

I was browsing Gwyneth Paltrow's newsletter on goop.com for recipes and I manage to find one that I like which is on making sandwiches (vegan lunch), though I won't follow it exactly, I'll make some changes here and there in situations where I can't find a particular ingredient or don't like a particular ingredient. Then another article caught my attention and I went on to read it and I find it really good.

It's about long-term relationships. Anyway, personally when I enter into relationships I enter with a hope to marry that person someday. I would also settle for someone who meets my expectation or whatever criteria that's on my "list" not for someone lesser. Maybe that's being a bit of a perfectionist no wonder I haven't found anyone suitable yet. But it's alright I can wait.

Read the full article on Relationships Part 1. Will update will part 2 comes out.

To all my programme mates, all the best in your coursework test next week!
Vicky

Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince

2009-07-21T20:48:00.002+08:00

Went to TGV in KLCC after class today with my classmates to watch Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. Since I know most of you don't like spoilers so I won't reveal any. What I like about this movie is the visuals and the cinematic effects.

Found out that there's Subway and kebab in the foodcourt in KLCC. So just in case I have cravings on a day that I'll be going to college, I know where to go to satisfy my cravings. Saw a white guy eating with chopsticks for the first time. Really surprised I must admit. He didn't hold it the right way, anyway so do I.

No test next week and submitted Decision Management assignment today. However, I still can't procrastinate because I have to study for Financial Accounting and Business Taxation test the week after next.

Not sure if I should go for my secondary school classmate's farewell. Most of my friends, the ones I usually mix with are not going.

To go or not to go,
Vicky

Beautiful music

2009-07-16T17:03:00.002+08:00

For the past few days, this song, River Flows in You by Yiruma took my breath away. It's a beautiful and soothing song. Whenever I listen to it, I just want to put everything that I'm doing down and just listen to it. It helps me relax especially since the past few days was hectic which so much assignments, tutorial questions to do.

You can watch the video on Youtube. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rhN7SG-H-3k)

Enjoy!
Vicky

L'oreal De-maq expert Cashmere-Milk Expert Make-up Remover

2009-07-16T16:56:00.003+08:00

My make-up remover finished few days ago, so now I'm using a new one by L'oreal. I find this one better than all the other make-up removers I used before. I like the scent and it's gentle on my skin especially when removing waterproof make-up on my eyes. When I used it to remove the waterproof mascara on my eyelashes, it comes off quickly.

I get it now

2009-07-10T20:42:00.002+08:00

Last year, a number of my girl friends got crazy over Twilight, the movie, the books, the cast etc. Some were even willing to search every bookstore in town to look for the books because due to the strong demand, some stores had already ran out of supply. Some also bought online. I also had a friend who watched the movie a few times.

Things I won't do, which includes watching the same movie a few times in the same year, let alone the same month. Or searching high and low for the books.

This week, I finished reading the first book, Twilight and I can't wait to read the next one, New Moon. My mother borrowed this book from her student so I didn't buy it.

Anyway, I bought this pair of shoes from Larrie last weekend and when I tried it on, it was oh-so-comfortable. There was an article in The Star (http://thestar.com.my/lifestyle/story.asp?file=/2007/10/11/lifearts/18881556&sec=lifearts) on this brand. By the way, this brand is a local brand. Talk about Malaysia Boleh!

Enjoy your weekend! :)
Vicky

Few hours of rest

2009-07-03T14:52:00.002+08:00

Had the last test for this week, that's Financial Accounting. I think I'm more prepared for Financial Accounting than Decision Management. Anyway, I had to start doing my Decision Management which I need to submit in 2 weeks time. It's a team-based assignment so it's still ok, at least we can share the burden. It's really tough, at least, my senior helped me kick-start the whole thing by explaining the assignment to me.

I like this song by Taylor Swift, You belong with me

I like a lot of Taylor Swift songs.

Busy week ahead,
Vicky

I here time whooshing by

2009-06-25T18:52:00.002+08:00

Time really flies. Now I only have a few days left to study for Decision Management test on Monday, Business Taxation test on Wednesday and Financial Accounting test on Friday. Of all the three subjects, I'm most worried about Decision Management because it's the toughest so far.

Anyway, you can now view my Facebook by clicking on this link which I just created www.facebook.com/vickypangweiqi. Facebook is getting cooler and cooler by the day.

By the way, I don't twitter because I won't update regularly and will probably become end up dormant.

Thank God it's Friday tomorrow,
Vicky

An angel

2009-06-19T20:45:00.003+08:00

I like this song that I have been listening to over and over on the radio. It's Halo by Beyonce.

I've met some not so good guys and good guys but all the good guys that I met, they are like angels. This song is dedicated to the good guys that I met.

I'll be having tests for all my subjects in 2 weeks time and I have lots to study. Advanced Diploma is way different than diploma, furthermore it's tougher. I need to have better time management.

Need to wake up early tomorrow, will be supporting my seniors who are taking part in CIMA Business Challenge.

Blessed Father's Day
Vicky

Italian food

2009-06-11T17:33:00.002+08:00

I really like Italian food, and that's probably one the reasons why I want to visit Italy one day.

Few weeks ago, I had dinner at Buonasera in SS2, their chef is an Italian (from the name card they gave me, the name sounds Italian) and they boast that they sell authentic Italian cuisine. Try their pasta with cream sauce. It's really to die for. The cream sauce is really delicious. Next is their lasagna which one reader recommended in Star Sunday Metro, Foodies section. I didn't try their lasagna there, but other than pasta, I like eating lasagna too, just like Garfield.

The first time I had lasagna was when one of my friends made in way back in secondary school. I haven't seen my friend for a long time, ever since she went to study in university.

Last weekend, when I was home alone, I ordered 2 large pizzas to last me the whole day and breakfast the next day from Domino's pizzas. I wanted to try the NY crust because it's new and it has the word "New York" in it. I didn't read the description carefully because when I opened the box, the crust was actually thinner than the Classic Hand Tossed. I prefer my pizza crust thick. After eating so much pizza, I'm not sick of pizza yet.

My senior will be leaving to UK today for the transfer programme in SHU. Arrivederci Andy! :)

Let me know your favorite Italian restaurant in Klang Valley,
Vicky

Buy secondhand car, save environment

2009-06-02T16:07:00.003+08:00

I read 2 articles on Wired.com on how buying a used car is actually greener than buying a hybrid. Besides, it's also cheaper to get a used car as a hybrid cars costs a bomb. Read articles here and here.

If you're currently living in Malaysia and after reading the article above and made the decision to get a used car, check out Carlist.my. It has a variety of cars listed there from BMW to Perodua. After all, according to the website, it's Malaysia's Largest Car Classified.

Will get a used car when I can afford one,
Vicky

1st day of a new course

2009-05-25T20:33:00.003+08:00

I'm currently doing Advanced Diploma in Management Accounting, also known as the CIMA programme in TAR College. First day today, and I also got selected as the Assistant Course Rep for my course.

Saw this video on Kris Allen, winner of American Idol season 8 facebook page. First heard this song at passion conference last year. Good to hear it from Kris. This song is going to get me going throughout my whole course.

God of this city - Kris Allen (he's not the original singer)

Greater things are yet to come,
Vicky

Monster vs. Aliens

2009-05-21T10:35:00.002+08:00

Went to watch preview screening for Monster vs. Aliens in 3D at KLCC last night. It's not out yet, it's just a preview screening, it will be released in cinemas in Malaysia on 28 May. So be patient.

The hall was fully packed. For the first time, there was people seating at the 1st row.

It was really funny. I wonder why aliens like to land in US. Think: War of the Worlds, The Day the Earth Stood Still...

Anyway, this movie is about Susan who got hit by a meteorite and it caused her to grow and turned her into a monster. So she was put into this prison for monster where she met other monsters. Then one day, an alien decided to attack the earth, so the government decides to release the monsters to fight the aliens. In the end, the monsters save the world.

My favorite character would be B.O.B. His character is the funniest and most interesting in this movie.

If you plan to watch this movie next week, I highly recommend you to watch it in 3D.

It's a happy day because Kris Allen won American Idol,
Vicky

American Idol season 8

2009-05-21T10:31:00.002+08:00

This is the results for the finale: Kris Allen vs. Adam Lambert.

Kris Allen won. Congratulations Kris! Looking forward to your album!

Kris Allen fan,
Vicky

David Beckham: My Side

2009-05-20T10:20:00.002+08:00

I think David Beckham needs no introduction. You probably know who he is and how he looks like. I've been reading his autobiography which he collaborated with Tom Watt.

I'm not a fan of football, in fact I hardly watch football except for a few matches that were on TV at the Mamak. I watch World Cup too but it's usually the finals. Nope, and I don't know much about football.

You are probably wondering why I read this book. Well, I wanted something to read during my free time and I saw this book in the library so I just pick it up to read.

In this book, he writes about how he love football as a kid, started playing for Man U, his family, his ups and downs, some of the things he experience just because he's famous or because his wife is one of the Spice Girls, and him joining Real Madrid. He wrote it in an honest way. Something David Beckham fans might want to read.

Been spending my free time reading,
Vicky

On Kris Allen's side

2009-05-16T13:06:00.003+08:00

I'll be supporting Kris Allen this week for the finale of American Idol season 8.

I think he's a talented singer, who dares to take risk, and he's creative and knows how to make a song his own, and his version of that song rocks too! Furthermore, I feel comfortable when I watch him perform, so I can buy his album, listen to all the songs in his album because it won't make me uncomfortable, or turn down the volume or go to the next song. I think I can watch him perform 1000 times and not feel bored. He can also play various musical instruments. I admire him for his passion and musical talent.He's also a humble person, down to earth and has a wholesome image.

I first notice him when he sang "Man in the mirror" during one of the group performance week. That performance made me sit up and continue to watch him for the rest of the competition until next week.

My favorites are (in no particular order): Man in the mirror, To make you feel my love, How Sweet It Is, She Works Hard for the Money, Heartless, Ain't No Sunshine, Come Together.

I would really want to vote for him but unfortunately, I can't because I'm not in America. So America, I'll be depending on you all to vote for him. Thanks in advance!

My vote for Kris Allen,
Vicky

Music Influence

2009-05-14T10:31:00.003+08:00

I read this in Cleo, May 2009 issue.

It says that according to a US study that compared students' SAT results with their fave music, fans of Beyonce music came out second last. At the last spot are fans of Lil Wayne. Classical music fans scored higher than anyone else. Also credited with above-average intelligence are fans of bands like Radiohead and U2. Fans of Aerosmith and Nickleback, however, scored rather low.

It didn't say anything about fans of Wang Leehom, Carrie Underwood or Lifehouse. Hmm...wonder how smart are fans of their music.

Maybe I should listen to more classical music in order to pass my CIMA exams with flying colors.

Anyway, I like this version of How Do You Sleep by Jesse McCartney featuring Ludacris. I like guys who wear aviator sunglasses, it makes them look cool like Jesse McCartney and Wang Leehom.

Today is my lucky day because Kris Allen made it to the Top 2 on American Idol.

Love and music,
Vicky

Extraodinary Pantene Commercial

2009-05-12T13:01:00.002+08:00

My friend sent me this video few days ago. I really like it. First, the played my favorite classical song, Canon in D but when I listen to it in this video, the feeling was different, I get teary-eyed. Second, I like the message, especially her conversation with one of the violinist playing on the streets.

Girl: Why am I different from others?
Man: Why do you have to be like others? Music is a visible thing. Close your eyes. You'll see.

Hope you enjoy this commercial as much as I did.

On a lookout for more touching commercials like this one,
Vicky

Why do we have to pay taxes?

2009-05-11T13:07:00.002+08:00

As I was reading Romans 13 today and came across verse 6 and 7 which says," This is also why you pay taxes, for the authorities are God's servants, who give their full time to governing. Give everyone what you owe him: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor. (NIV)

Reading these verses reminds me about a client I had at my work place who asked why does he have to pay taxes. If I had read this verses earlier, I might have quoted this verse to him.

Anyway, the textbook answer is a part of our earnings contributed to the government to enable them to meet expenditures for the benefit of the people.

Just finish reading Talk to the Snail by Stephen Clarke. I find it funny. Don't go to France without reading this book! ( according to the back cover of the book.)

Happy Monday!
Vicky

Financial Goals

2009-05-05T13:44:00.003+08:00

Been using my free time to read Money Sense which I downloaded the PDF version from AKPK website. Currently reading the chapter on financial goals and want to share some of my financial goals with you. I believe everyone have at least 1 financial goal. It may be something small like being able to donate RM100 to charity every year.

Here's mine:
Short-term goals (less than one year)

To save RM200 to buy that handbag that I spotted at UParkson.
To buy Lifehouse and Carrie Underwood latest albums which will hopefully be ready this year.

Medium-term goals (1-3 years)

To go for a vacation in Sarawak. I have never been to East Malaysia before and I'm a Malaysian.
Buy an electric guitar/an acoustic guitar.

Long-term goals (more than 3 years)

Buy myself a life insurance.
Invest in unit trust/mutual funds.

Now that I have list down some of my financial goals, it's time for you to write down yours. I hope that I can achieve all my financial goals.

A little update on Wang Leehom. He recently released a new MV - Screenplay. Check it out!

Life takes on meaning when you become motivated, set goals and charge after them in an unstoppable manner. - Les Brown
Vicky

Music-Man Live in KL

2009-05-04T10:14:00.002+08:00

On May 2, 2009 I went to Music-man concert in Bukit Jalil National Stadium. The last time I was there, it was to watch the Commonwealth games which was a long time ago in 1998. I arrived there with my friend at 6.30pm and there was already a crowd. There was already a lot of people there and my friend and me lined up at the wrong place. However, after finding out that we were at the wrong line and after looking around for a sign that says RM198, we managed to find the right line. It was really hot out there, I was already sweating even before I got in.

I think there was more than 20,000 there that night. After the opening performance, I finally got to see what I had been waiting for - Wang Leehom. He performed songs from his older albums and also from his latest album "Hearbeat". He also introduced Bahamut to us and it was really cool. He played the grand piano (which looked dirty, no wonder he didn't mind standing on it to sing "What's wrong with rock" before the concert ended), violin, drums and of course the electric guitar. I like how he played a popular Disney song "When you wish upon the star" before performing "Luo Ye Gui Gen" on the violin. He' s really a maestro.

Some songs that I didn't expect him to sing is "Crying Palms" - one song which I still love until now and also "Can You Feel My World".

Other than singing and playing musical instruments, Leehom also danced and beat-boxed. Wow! He performs differently live and most of the time, it's better than the album version. So it's really worth it to go to his concert. The concert ended at around 11 something and fortunately, I managed to reach home after 12am. Normally, the LRT stations closes at 12am or 11.45pm.

Overall, the concert was brilliant!

Leehom fan,
Vicky

Rest day

2009-05-01T20:12:00.002+08:00

Happy Labour's Day!

Yesterday was my last day of work, and also one of my busiest, where my deadline is at 2PM, because that's when the office boy will submit all the BE forms to the IRB. Phew! Even e-filing isn't much better, because the website is so jammed up and slow. Sometimes I had to log in a few times. The worst part is when you're about to sign it, it got stuck and you had to log-in again. My colleague also treated me to lunch at Pizza Hut :). I will miss working there. When they get up to be at work at 8.30pm tomorrow, I'll be at home.

Went to 1 Utama today, watched Threads of Destiny. It's a Japanese movie. The funniest part was when Sara jumped down from the building and a guy at the back shouted,"Aiyo!". Before the movie, I was at U Parkson, checking at the cosmetics from Estee Lauder. I applaud the make-up artist or whatever you call the person at the counter. Good customer service! Bravo! I tried the new range of lipstick/gloss that I saw in a newspaper advertisement and because I had dry lips so he applied lip conditioner for me to. He helped me choose the colour too because I wanted something that suits my skin tone and gives me the natural look. After that he helped put on blusher to make my skin look healthier and less dull. I'm a fan of Estee Lauder perfumes especially the Pure White Linen collection.

Yeah, and if you bring along a Clinique coupon pasted on The Star or Sin Chew Jit Poh a few days ago, you would get a skin consultation and also a free gift worth RM30 or RM50.

Lunch was at Sushi Groove. I love the tempura there.

After lunch, I shopped a bit more before going home. The sales were tempting and it's better to shop on a full stomach, you will buy less. I bought a packet of Marks and Spencer chocolate chip cookies. Hey, it was a "hot item" and the price is right. Hehe. I usually don't shop in Marks and Spencer because the price tag hurts. However, after I bought some cookies from Marks and Spencer with Yein and Enya, I somehow got addicted to it. Now that I'm free, I hope that I can meet up with them again.

Enjoy your weekend!
Vicky

Thinking of you

2009-04-16T20:56:00.002+08:00

I was suppose to be able to be back early from work today but I was waiting for a client who didn't turn up in the end.

Anyway, got this song stuck in my head. It's Thinking of You by Katy Perry.

Enjoy the song and video, got to go catch American Idol on TV, even though I already know the results but that still doesn't spoil the fun of watching it.

Vicky

Expensive Chicken Rice

2009-04-11T18:10:00.002+08:00

I realized how expensive a plate of chicken rice sold at a stall near my house is today. It's RM4 for a plate! Near my workplace, it cost RM3.30 in one stall and RM3.50 in another stall behind my office. The RM3.50 has a crowd eating there and I agree it's nice. I can get rice balls instead of the normal style for rice in the RM3.30 stall.

I rarely eat meat for lunch at my workplace because I usually eat at a vegetarian restaurant. I usually eat small rice and two different dishes of vegetables and it cost around RM2. So that's still affordable I think.

Happy Easter everyone!
Vicky

1st pay cheque

2009-04-04T16:17:00.002+08:00

I got my first pay cheque on April Fool's day. Enjoy my work, my colleagues and bosses are nice, friendly and helpful. Have to work overtime on most days, right now it's the peak period so have to rush to complete the cases by April 30.

By the way, I'm working in a tax firm so I'm doing tax. The thing with taxes is that it keeps changing as the government introduce a new budget or make changes in the taxes so some information in my text notes were completely obsolete.

Update you all later. Have fun computing your taxes by April 30, 2009!
Vicky

Sunway Pyramid

2009-03-25T20:29:00.003+08:00

Just came back from Sunway Pyramid. I went there to catch-up with my friends from secondary school, we were classmates when we was in Form 3.

We had lunch at Sushi Groove. Students get 10% discount. Just present your student card when making payment. It's slightly more expensive than Sushi King. If you're not sure what to order, just order the box set. It comes with a Ocha (not sure if I got the spelling right but it's tea) which is refillable and Miso Soup. There are variety of sushi in one box, depending on which set you ordered. The place is pretty dark but not too dark until I can't see what I'm eating. I find the sushi unique because it's not too cold like they just took it out of the fridge kind of cold. One of friend described it as warmed up sushi. I liked the tempura.

After that we went shopping, watch people ice-skate. Many shops are having sales. When we got tired of walking around the mall, we had donuts and coffee at J.Co. First time I drank espresso at J. Co. Then it started to rain, walked around a little bit more until it's time to go back. Good thing the rain wasn't too heavy and I didn't need to wait too long for the bus.

By the way, I'm starting work tomorrow at an accounting firm. I've been praying for a job for months and finally got one.

Cheers!
Vicky

Across the Universe

2009-03-17T13:33:00.003+08:00

Watch this musical last night which is based on various songs by The Beatles. Most of it, I haven't heard before except for "Let It Be". It's about a love story between Jude and Lucy. I think Jim Sturgess portrayed his character Jude really well. Furthermore, I like his British accent.

Across the Universe is one-of-a-kind musical, nothing like I expected. The visuals were really nice too. Enjoyed it and it's something that I want to watch over and over again.

The Broker

2009-03-13T12:51:00.002+08:00

Finished reading The Broker by John Grisham.

Just finished it this morning, like usual it was raining in KL. Wanted to finish last night but I had to watch American Idol. It kept me on the edge of my seat,wanting to know what would happen next to Joel Backman/Marco Lazzeri/Giovanni Ferro (It's just one person by the way). As I turned the pages, I wondering if he would get caught, or killed by the people who want to kill him, or would he be safe. I think this novel would make a good movie. Really. It's so exciting. And it has a good storyline, I won't fall asleep while watching this movie, I didn't while reading this book. I also learned some Italian words from this book like boun giorno, come sta, sto bene, grazie and so on.

Anyway, Italy seems to be a nice place to relax and with a lot of places to go sightseeing in this book, especially Bologna.

Hopes to visit Italy one day,
Vicky

During rainy days

2009-03-11T13:30:00.002+08:00

One rainy afternoon, I finished Shopaholic Ties the Knot by Sophie Kinsella. It was entertaining and after putting down this book, I want to read the other books from the Shopaholic series.

And since it was raining cats and dogs and with some lightning and thunder, I watched Hearty Paws. This Korean movie can make you cry. It's about relationships, loyalty. I think the main theme in this movie is abandonment.

Baked potatoes

2009-03-10T13:20:00.002+08:00

I made baked potatoes yesterday and it turned out well. I followed the recipe from Western Food Eastern Style by Ruzita Awaluddin.

Ingredients
500g potatoes
100g butter
100g cheese
A little salt
Aluminium foil
Cucumber, tomato and parsley

Method

Clean potatoes and scald with a little salt in boiling water. Cut potato into halves or three quaters if preferred.
Wrap potatoes in aluminium foil and arrange in a tray. Bake until cooked.
Remove potatoes from oven. Add butter and cheese on top.
Bake potatoes again until golden in colour. Serve with cucumber, tomato and parsley.

Instead of 500g of potatoes, I used 4 potatoes, which was enough for my whole family. I used Mozzarella cheese. I might try using other type of cheese when I make this dish again in the future.

Enjoy your baked potatoes,
Vicky