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Friday, December 30, 2005
Jollibean's Cocoa Soya Bean Milk
Oh no. Another obsession.
First I upsized from a small to a regular cup. Now I'm taking it by the bottle.
And I broke my rule of having it every other day to drinking it every day.
I showed Shaun the bottle, hoping he'll say something disparaging so that I would be discouraged from drinking. Instead he asked to to sample it. He then returned the bottle saying, "You've made me come in my pants again."
It's really yummy. And dairy-free too. But I'm super addicted to it and that's baaad...
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Thursday, December 29, 2005
I'm materialistic and pedantic, so here's a quick guide to diamonds.Shape:
Round Brilliant Diamonds
This shape has set the standard for all other diamond shapes, and accounts for more than 75% of diamonds sold today. Its 58-facet cut, divided among its crown (top), girdle (widest part) and pavilion (base), is calibrated through a precise formula to achieve the maximum in fire and brilliance.
Carat:
A carat is a unit of measurement to weigh a diamond. One carat is equal to 200 milligrams, or 0.2 grams. Large diamonds are rare and have a greater value per carat. For that reason, the price of a diamond rises exponentionaly to its size.
Colour:
A colorless diamond allows more light to pass through it than a colored diamond, thus emitting more sparkle and fire. The formation process of a diamond ensures that only a few, rare diamonds are truly colorless. Thus the whiter a diamond's color, the greater its value.
Clarity:
F and VS1-VS2
Diamonds have two types of flaws: inclusions (internal flaws) and blemishes (surface flaws). Clarity is graded as follows:
F - Flawless: No internal or external flaws. Extremely rare.
IF - Internally Flawless: no internal flaws, but some surface flaws. Very rare.
VVS1-VVS2 - Very Very Slightly Included (two grades). Minute inclusions very difficult to detect under 10x magnification by a trained gemologist.
VS1-VS2 - Very Slightly Included (two grades). Minute inclusions seen only with difficulty under 10x magnification.
SI1-SI2 - Slightly Included (two grades). Minute inclusions more easily detected under 10x magnification.
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Wednesday, December 28, 2005
December Engagement Rings
Left: Tiffany (UK). Channel-set band ring, half-circle. Round brilliant diamonds, carat total weight .21 (size 4), color grade G, clarity grade VS; platinum. 2.5mm.
£1,050
Right: Soo Kee Jewellery (SG). Round brilliant diamonds, carat total weight .43, color grade D, clarity grade VS1.
About $3k.
Many mini diamonds from a brand name vs one solid hunk from a home-grown brand. I can't believe they cost the same.
Eugene proposed on the top levels of the Eiffel Tower (in Paris, the city of romance) in a very showy (almost cliched) manner.
Shaun had a heartfelt proposal, where he said, "With this very song which stole your heart, at this very place where we got together, I'm now asking you to be my wife."
Two very different men. Two very different approaches to relationships.
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Tuesday, December 27, 2005
Was randomly surfing Google Video when I came across the following:Awesome dance that basically summarises the typical Harry Potter plot. But awesome dancing! Some West Side Story choreography going on. Worth the viewing.
This video kept popping up so I relented and clicked on it. At first I thought a bit kua-chang but the more I got into it, the more impressive it was. Reminded me of Emma (Pei Ee's longtime galpal) who missed Canadian houses all decked out in Christmas lights.
This advertisement is funny. Men. They just don't get it.
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Thursday, December 22, 2005
Hi. My name is Amy and I’m a shopaholic.Get You A Coat, Have A Bite
Make A Night - I'm Flush
(from Rent: "You Okay Honey?")
Hats, Bats, Shoes, Booze
Mountain Bikes, Potpourri
Leather Bags, Girlie Mags
Forty Fives, AZT
(from Rent: "Christmas Bells")
During lunch today:
Boss: So, Amy, what are you up to today?
Manager: Amy’s going shopping!
I was so taken aback to hear her swift reply. I hadn’t even planned my day and how ever did she get the idea I was the shopping type?
Fast-forward several hours later:
I'm weighed down by many shopping bags and my wallet's lighter by a couple of hundred dollars. They were all impulse buys without really checking pricetags.
Oh my god! I AM a shopaholic!
Let’s list today's purchases and the reasons why I (a)went to the shop, (b)bought it and (c)lame justifications.
1. Windbreaker
– passing time while waiting for someone to pass me stuff
- because it was orange
- it was 25% off!
2. 2 tins of biscuits
- to collect (other) pre-ordered Christmas gifts
– because stocks were low and I may not have time to return to this shop
- minutes later gave a tin as a spur-of-the-moment Christmas gift to a business associate.
3. Pack of 4 Christmas cards
- on the way back from business associate's office, the window display caught my eye
– because it was handmade and unique-looking
- who knows maybe it’ll come in useful?
4. Carnelian agate necklace and pendant
– owner SMS-ed me about 40% discount
- because it will match Christmas Day dinner outfit
- expensive. can't find any justification for buying it.
5. Made-to-measure work blouse
- just to browse, with no intention of buying
– because the tailor was nice and the shop was quiet
- still too poor to afford CYC so why not start small first?
6. Crochet cardigan-ish top
– top looked good on the mannequin
- didn't suit me but bought it as a birthday gift for long-lost friend
- no time and no idea what to get, so just risk it lor!
Oh. On Wednesday I went on half-day leave and also went on a spontaneous shopping spree:
1. Obi Wan figurine – impromptu Christmas gift for Shaun
2. Aventurine and Jade necklace – because it was pretty and looks like Lesley's (which I've been coveting)
3. 2 pairs of shoes – because 2nd pair was 50% off and he was my favourite salesman
I need professional help. I need to leave my cards at home and only carry a minimum amount of cash. I need to hang around thrifty friends like Shan and Shaun.
I must stop spending money on a whim!
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Tuesday, December 20, 2005
Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice chapter 21"It is evident by this," added Jane, "that he comes back no more this winter."
The idea of his returning no more Elizabeth treated with the utmost contempt.
-+-+-+-+-+-
Okay, maybe it's premature to spout the Darcy speech. I'll try his tactic of avoiding Elizabeth by leaving Netherfield, instead.
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Monday, December 19, 2005
Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice chapter 34Darcy:
"In vain I have struggled. It will not do. My feelings will not be repressed. You must allow me to tell you how ardently I admire and love you."
… the avowal of all that he felt, and had long felt for her, immediately followed. He spoke well; but there were feelings besides those of the heart to be detailed; and he was not more eloquent on the subject of tenderness than of pride. His sense of her inferiority—of its being a degradation—of the family obstacles which had always opposed to inclination, were dwelt on with a warmth which seemed due to the consequence he was wounding, but was very unlikely to recommend his suit.
He concluded with representing to her the strength of that attachment which, in spite of all his endeavours, he had found impossible to conquer; and with expressing his hope that it would now be rewarded by her acceptance of his hand.
Elizabeth:
"I might as well inquire," replied she, " why with so evident a desire of offending and insulting me, you chose to tell me that you liked me against your will, against your reason, and even against your character?"
-+-+-+-+-+-+-
i'm this close to giving somebody the Darcy speech.
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Monday, December 12, 2005
All Your Words Are Nice MimiBut Love's Not A Three Way Street
(Rent: "Goodbye Love")
PAUL: How Do You Feel Today?
GORDON: Best I've Felt All Year
PAUL: Then Why Choose Fear?
GORDON: I'm A New Yorker! Fear's My Life!
(Rent: "Life Support")
She Was More Than Okay
But I Pushed Her Away
It Was Bad - I Got Mad
And I Had To Get Her Out Of My Sight
(Rent: "Christmas Bells")
I had imagined 2 scenarios for my reunion with Shaun.
The first had me slinking into my office chair and burying myself with work. He wouldn’t realise I was there due to the huge calendar that was blocking his view and I was contented to avoid his notice for as long as possible.
The second had me breaking into tears as he gave me a big bear hug. Then to avoid our colleagues’ quizzical stares, we would retreat to our smoking corner so that I could compose myself.
And what actually happened? Well, a curious blend of the two.
I was walking to the office after my training course and we spotted each other across the street. Before I knew it, he ran across and gave me a hug. We had a quick catch up at our corner and then a round of gossip at his desk. But we both had tasks due so we buried ourselves in work soon after.
Later he called me to continue recounting all the great stuff that happened after his reservist stint from hell. And he glibly said, “The best thing that happened today was when I ran across the street and hugged you.” Which of course made me feel all warm and fuzzy. “I’ve spent 2 weeks being a manimal,” he continued, “I really need to be a snookums again.”
Fast-forward to 3 hours and an ultra-romantic Jane Austen movie later.
One would think I’d be on cloud nine but instead I sobered up. I felt so silly gushing over him and being caught up in the moment earlier. I'm not quite the same person as before he left. And i certainly do not want to start the cycle again.
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Monday, December 05, 2005
you okay honey?i'm afraid so
(from Rent: "You Okay Honey?")
Thank you to Lesley for asking if I wanted to meet. For being there supportively and unjudgingly. To Shaun for finally letting me know he was out there and that we're still friends. To Len for his overseas SMS asking after me. To Eugene for checking in with me before he left. I started crying almost as soon as I said hi. The pressure's been building up and I just couldn't keep it in anymore. But all I needed was assurance that somewhere, someone was there for me. Perhaps I don't know how to be alone after all.
sometimes i wish no one reads my blog. then i could just complain about how crappy i feel. without the fear of being labeled a drama queen. or scaring people with my masochistic thoughts. i wouldn't have to care about hurting other people's feelings either. or make them feel uncomfortable with how needy i am for them. i have pain that i dare not give voice to, because i fear that no one will answer. for when i'm faced with this silent void, what will I do then?
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Tuesday, November 29, 2005
i like boysboys like me
we'll see
(from Rent: "We'll See")
Len chided me for being needy.
Et tu, Brute?
I'm not dwelling on negative things, so moving on to happier stuff.
I was channel surfing late Saturday night and found Troy on HBO. After falling to pieces over Hector, his muscles and his armour (not necessarily in that order), I was very pleasantly reminded of how hot Sean Bean was as Odysseus. That man should never shave. And always wear a
Then on Sunday, Orli appeared on Oprah. He did that whole adorable-as-a-puppy routine. (Pearly, Peiee did you guys catch that?) And he was wearing the ONE t-shirt. Very Clay Aiken-y. I approve. (Speaking of which, Wed is Clay's Birthday. Happy Birthday Sweetpea.)
My favourite bit was when he surprised these 2 Asian sisters, Hurricane Katrina refugees, with gifts. They had lost their entire LOTR collection so he gave them all sorts of LOTR goodies. He also invited them to the 'Elizabethtown' premiere, where he embraced them in front of everyone. Wow! Rocks!
Which reminds me that January 5 is only a few weeks away. Hooray! But in the meantime, A History of Violence opens this Thursday. If I weren't so broke I'll watch it repeatedly. Viggo with weaponry... Violent Viggo... Sigh...
And then, after Oprah the brand-new INXS music video was shown! So rocked! It reminded me of a BSB video but of course, INXS does it way cooler. Way cooler.
On Monday, I spoke to Shaun amidst the sound of gunfire. I would be more impressed if I hadn't just read Punisher the night before.
Later on my curator friend asked me out for dinner and he drove us to this cosy little chicken rice place. Great food!
Men. They make me happy. Can't compare to chocolate, but better than apple pie.
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Wednesday, November 23, 2005
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Tuesday, November 22, 2005
i cant believe he's gone
i cant believe you're going
i cant believe our family must die
(from RENT: "Goodbye Love")
My men are leaving me.
Shaun goes for reservist on the 25th. There goes 95% of the fun factor in the office. There will be a Shaun-shaped hole in my soul.
Len goes to England/Ireland on the 30th. No more late night chats over coffee. No more having someone there, just when you need some comfort.
Eugene goes to England/Paris/Scotland on the 5th. Can't whine over sms and receive hugs or offers to rough up bullies.
And then...
Lesley (very much a lady) leaves on the 7th. She's off to another organisation and that's the end of our work threesome.
How do I cope without my support structure?
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Saturday, November 19, 2005
"A Perfect Afternoon" - Class Reunion
Had a fun time at today's reunion.
Don't think everything has sunk in yet.
More pics.
(Trial run of Flikr.)
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Carrie from SISTIC is a doll! She deserves an Excellent Service Award.
I was super pissed because Rent was cancelled so I chewed out the poor soul who answered the hotline. I was then transferred to Carrie who very nicely explained the situation and facilitated my refund / exchange. She also explained the rationale behind various Sistic procedures. Not only did she calm me down, by the middle of the conversation I was laughing and smiling.
Carrie has humanised the up-til-now cold and faceless entity that is Sistic. Poor her, having to work the late shift on a Saturday. On top of that, she had to deal with the thousands who were affected by the cancellation. I hope she gets rewarded, one way or another, for her outstanding performance.
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Thursday, November 17, 2005
Lesley sent me this fantastic quiz:Which Romantic Comedy Heroine Are You?
brought to you by Quizilla
You're Katherine "Kiki" Harrison
(Julia Roberts - 'America's Sweethearts')
Always the shoulder to cry on, you try to juggle
the lives of those you care about while
battling with your own. You have a beautiful
smile, a wonderful sense of humor and charming
wit, but often go unnoticed. Too many times
others get the spotlight, but that's ok by you.
You don't need the limelight, you just want
that special someone to recognize you for the
loveable and loving person you are.
You're booksy, artsy, and creative. You prefer
toned down, subdued classic clothing to express
your personality.
You do have a hard time expressing yourself
outwardly, and often turn to some 'thing' for
comfort, while you carry the brunt on your
shoulders.
You're ambitious and professional and succeed at
everything you tackle.
All in all, you're the rock.
It's been SO long since I did a quiz. Do you guys remember when we'd do quizzes left, right, centre and post the results on our blogs? Really fun.
EDIT
Lesley's result: Sarah Thomas (Kate Beckinsale - 'Serendipity') THINKER
Shan's result: Libby Reynolds (Kelly Preston - 'What a Girl Wants') The Genuine Article
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Monday, November 14, 2005
Yesterday we went to "celebrate" Pearly's birthday. Pearly, Man, Tjin-Kai, Peiee and I had dinner at Carl's Junior (most of them were CJ-virgins!), then we went to watch Sky High.
The movie was cool but Pearly and I were smutten by the Warren Peace character who was scruffily grungy. A bit young for my taste but at least he was filthy(ish).
Anal as ever, I made sure I scanned the credits to catch the name of the actor who played Warren - Steven Strait.
According to IMDB, he also stars alongside Ashlee Simpson in a movie called Undiscovered. Apparently, this movie is so bad, it's going almost straight to DVD. Oh well, at least there's some eye candy. Strait plays a talented rock star waiting to hit the big time. Did someone say rock star? Uncombed, unwashed rock star? *grin*
There are several bios of Strait but this site is the most *ahem* entertaining. I can imagine one spending hours getting lost on that site...
Here are some choice pics of pre-movie Strait:
Nevermind. One day he will grow up and be a man.
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Thursday, November 10, 2005
I received this spam email today:Sender: "Neateye"
Subject: Gouranga
Call out Gouranga be happy...
Gouranga Gouranga Gouranga
That which brings the highest happiness!
Intrigued by the curious content, I googled "Gouranga" and discovered some quirky trivia.
Gouranga itself is a very innocent Hare Krishna way of saying Be Happy! But you know how the world loves Hare Krishna jokes. It seems in Grand Theft Auto, when you run over a horde of Hare K pedestrians, the game would proclaim "Gouranga"! I love how brutal this game is. :D :D :D
Anyway, GOURANGA everyone! Wishing you happiness always.
for further reading:
"Gouranga" spam - who's behind it and what's it about
Wikipedia entry on Gouranga
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Sunday, November 06, 2005
I dreamed a dream in time gone byWhen hope was high
And life worth living
sang a friend, reminding me of Les Mis songs I've not thought about in ages.
She went on to sing some of the most tragic lyrics ever
All alone, I walk with him till morning
Its going to be playing in my mind these cold, rainy evenings, when pavements shine like silver and the trees are full of starlight.
By the way, this year my theme song / motivational anthem / prayer while at work has been
One more day,
One day more!
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Saturday, November 05, 2005
days apartand i unravel
much too hard letting you go
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Tuesday, October 25, 2005
We had a flash flood in the office today. In the beginning, everything was calm.
Then it started to rain... really torrentially...
The torrential rain was just too much for the drainage system to handle and the sidewalk started flooding. You can just see a small rivulet entering my ground floor office:
And it kept on coming...
So, what did we do? We rallied together and got all our stuff to higher ground:
Then... we basically stood around and let the manual workers deal with it:
My neighbours in front and to the sides of me got wet, but my cubicle remained dry. Phew. Thank God!
Meanwhile, we took photos! :P
Shaun & Lesley - refugees from "Hurricane Armenia":
Me & Shaun conspiring:
Aftermath:
The garden path outside also suffered a smilar fate:
But the worst damage happened to the unit next door, which had CARPETED floors:
For more reports (same photos, different take) visit the other survivor.
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Friday, October 21, 2005
Today was photo-taking day! Following the successful photoshoot yesterday, I was asked to take more pictures.Here are my 2 work buddies, Lesley and Shaun:
More photos of them:
1
2
3
4
5
And this one was for our Customer Service presentation:
They look good together, ya?
click on image for larger pic
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*smirk*
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