smutten ;)

2007-10-08T21:11:00.000-07:00

i'm not back. still ded.

a musical interlude. a not-so-veiled announcement.

YouTube text link

2007-05-16T23:23:00.000-07:00

OMG OMG OMG

The long-awaited video for Fergie's Big Girls Don't Cry is out! And it's not just me that's excited. I've seen in on 3 blogs already, today.

Go see!

YouTube text link

Apparently when you hire someone to appear in YOUR video, you get to strip them and grope them to your heart's content. Lucky Beeyatch.

Related posts:
Shirtless Milo
Lyrics

2007-05-15T21:16:00.000-07:00

The Ping Pong Song- Enrique

Aaaaahhhhh!!! I love this song. It's silly and catchy and fun! Whee!

YouTube text link

Do you know what it feels like loving someone that’s in a rush to throw you away...

2007-05-11T19:53:00.000-07:00

Shaun...

is irreplaceable.

2007-05-10T22:16:00.000-07:00

Shaun...

is the go-to-guy, not only for his immediate colleagues but also for folks from other divisions and external organisations.
is capable of doing the most thoughtful, sensitive and considerate things.

2007-05-10T21:11:00.000-07:00

27"

From LICD. Awesome comic!

2007-05-09T23:48:00.000-07:00

Shaun...

looks awesome in black.
is more sculpted than one would imagine.
has a 1000 smiles, including one heart-stopping grin.

2007-05-08T22:07:00.000-07:00

Shaun...

not only has a near-encyclopedic knowledge about Oldies, but sings and plays the guitar too.
is a graphics genius, who photoshops like a whiz and draws beautifully.
is a cunning linguist, in more than 3 tongues.
can whip a webpage into shape, in no time at all.

2007-05-07T21:37:00.000-07:00

Shaun...

brings laughter and joy.
is dedicated, doesn't stop till the job gets done.
is very generous with his time, often going out of his way to help others.
is gregarious and is everyone's pal.
takes time to listen, even when you're just rambling.

2007-05-05T17:05:00.000-07:00

Feliz Cinco de Mayo! & Happy Free Comic Book Day!

I just looked at my archives for May for the past few years. Who was that girl writing in 2002? I seriously don't remember a thing that she wrote about. *puzzled*

What happened to my posts on the Ooi wedding in 2004? Did it get deleted???? I can't think about it too much, else I'm gonna get depressed.

By the way, they got married May 9, 2004. Keemin & Lisa got married May 5, 2005. I SMSed Peiee TODAY, wishing her happy anniversary. God, I'm so embarrased.

Anyhoo...
Happy 2nd Anniversary to the Lims!!
Happy (early) 3rd Anniversary to the Oois!!!

What sparked this off was receiving my new AlumNUS DBS card, since the old one was already 4 years old and expired. I vividly remember receiving the old card the day before the Ooi wedding weekend and the hotel bill was my very first charge to the card.

I also bought a new wallet for the Ooi wedding. I wanted a (temporary) super slim one to carry the barest-of-bare essentials cos my fancy wedding handbag was really tiny. And you know what? I'm still using that wallet today. 3 years already. Not bad for a $3 COMODITeE wallet from OG. That's like a $1 per year! Hahahaha!

I remember getting stopped by OG security because the &*^% cashier forgot to remove the security device. Why they put a security device on a cheapo wallet just defies logic.

To sum up, during the first weekend of May in '04 and '05, I was enjoying creature comforts in Sentosa hotels. In '06 and '07, however, I was slaving in the office. Life took a serious downturn, man.

2007-05-04T22:07:00.000-07:00

I just don't know what to do with myself by Dusty Springfield
Lyrics by Burt Bacharach / Hal David

YouTube text link

I just don't know what to do with myself
Don't know just what to do with myself
I'm so used to doing everything with you
Planning everything for two
And now that we're through
I just don't know what to do with my time
When I'm not with you
I just don't know what to do

lyrics

didn't go for lunch this week, mostly cos work was insanely hectic.
but also cos i didn't know where to go, by myself.

2007-05-03T20:42:00.000-07:00

And to further add to the sheer awesomeness of the song - the video has a very shirtless, tatooed and generally unkempt Milo.

YUMMY!

Thanks to this.

2007-05-03T20:13:00.000-07:00

I think I've found the perfect song for the situation. Joy!

Big Girls Don't Cry by Fergie

YouTube text link

I hope you know, I hope you know
That this has nothing to do with you
It's personal, Myself and I
We've got some straightenin' out to do
And I'm gonna miss you like a child misses their blanket
But I've got to get a move on with my life
Its time to be a big girl now
And big girls don't cry

The path that I'm walking
I must go alone
I must take the baby steps until I'm full grown
Fairytales don't always have a happy ending, do they
And I foresee the dark ahead if I stay

I need to be with myself and center,
Clarity, Peace, Serenity

lyrics

2007-05-02T21:22:00.000-07:00

"I Try" by Macy Gray

I try to say goodbye and I choke
I try to walk away and I stumble
Though I try to hide it it's clear
My world crumbles when you are not near

I may seem alright and smile when you leave
But my smiles are just a front
I play it off but I'm dreamin of you
I'll keep my cool but I'm fiendin

Lyrics

2007-04-30T10:33:00.000-07:00

gonna look back in vain and see you standing there
when all that remains is just an empty chair

- Can't cry hard enough

2007-04-29T20:23:00.000-07:00

IDOLZ

What a surprise! Bucky actually seems on the verge of a successful career.

Bucky. Bucky Covington. The one I didn't have to wait very long before he was voted off American Idol. And now he might become the male Carrie Underwood. WOW! I'm stunned.

Here's a music video of "Different World", an extremely radio-friendly country music track.

YouTube text link

To hear more from his upcoming debut album, click here.

In other IDOL news...

I STILL cannot find Elliott Yamin's album. :(
Are they not shipping it here? Is it sold out?

Check out this video. Does he not sound like Justin Timberlake?

YouTube text link

Sneak peaks of his CD here. It sounds amazing!

Sorry Clay, but this is the album you should have made. But I'll still buy 2 of everything you put out.

2007-04-28T14:48:00.000-07:00

Faith Hill - Cry

YouTube text link

If I had just one tear running down your cheek
Maybe I could cope maybe I'd get some sleep

Yeah.... could you cry a little
Lie just a little
Pretend that you're feeling a little more pain
I gave now I'm wanting
Something in return
So cry just a little for me

Yeah.... and you'd cry a little
Die just a little
And baby I would feel just a little less pain
I gave now I'm wanting
Something in return
So cry just a little for me

lyrics

2007-04-25T23:50:00.000-07:00

Thank You For The Music by ABBA

YouTube text link

Thank you for the music, the songs you're singing
Thanks for all the joy they're bringing
Who can live without it, I ask in all honesty
What would life be?
Without a song or a dance what are we?
So I say thank you for the music
For giving it to me
- lyrics

Tonight was great fun! Thank You!

2007-04-25T20:15:00.000-07:00

He only has himself to blame for this. *evil laughter*

He's asked N-number of folks, "Ni3 Xiang3 Wo4 Ma?". So I said, "Why you never ask me?" *pout* "Do I really need to?" he replied.

Fine. Be that way.

Anyhoo, I would have said:
Near, far, wherever you are
You are safe in my heart,
And my heart will go on.

2007-04-24T20:25:00.000-07:00

YouTube text link

Bittersweet memories
That is all I'm taking with me
So good-bye, please don't cry
We both know this is not what you need

I hope life treats you kind
And I hope you have all you've dreamed of
And I wish you joy and happiness
But above all this I wish you love

lyrics

2007-04-23T22:34:00.000-07:00

i will *NOT* click watch again.
i will *NOT* click watch again.
i will *NOT* click watch again.

YouTube text link

dammit.

give. me. chocolate. NOW.

2007-04-15T22:40:00.000-07:00

Hold On by Wilson Phillips

YouTube text link

I know this pain
Why do you lock yourself up in these chains?
No one can change your life except for you
Don't ever let anyone step all over you
Just open your heart and your mind
Is it really fair to feel this way inside?

You could sustain
Or are you comfortable with the pain?
You've got no one to blame for your unhappiness
You got yourself into your own mess
Lettin' your worries pass you by
Don't you think it's worth your time
To change your mind?

I know that there is pain
But you hold on for one more day
And you break free from the chains

Some day somebody's gonna make you want to
Turn around and say goodbye
Until then baby are you going to let them
Hold you down and make you cry
Don't you know?
Don't you know things can change
Things'll go your way
If you hold on for one more day
Can you hold on for one more day
Things'll go your way
Hold on for one more day

Full lyrics

2007-04-14T22:29:00.000-07:00

Part 5

(Last POTO post, I promise.)

This is cool! MUST SEE!

The crew of the movie sings Phantom of the Opera.

YouTube text link

2007-04-14T22:16:00.000-07:00

Part 4

OH! I almost forgot to blog this. When Phantom sang his first duet, I sorta stopped paying attention. Instead I was fantasising about Gerard Butler (who played Phantom in the movie version) on the set of 300. I imagined him in his leather pants and red cloak singing Phantom songs. And none of his 300 men can make fun of him, because he would just whoop their asses.

Check out these vids of Gerry:

Here he is in studios, recording for Phantom

YouTube text link

An unreleased song from the movie. It's good! Well, maybe a tad pansy/emo.

YouTube text link

See if you can tell Gerry from Michael Crawford (the original Phantom).

YouTube text link

2007-04-14T21:54:00.000-07:00

Part 3

I saw Phantom of the Opera today! Which explains all the POTO posts. :)

How long has it been since POTO premiered at Kallang Theatre? Ten years?
It was my first musical and I LOVE LOVE LOVE it! I still have all the memorabilia: score, programme, 2 tshirts, cassette tapes (yes, it was that long ago) and binoculars. The t-shirts sold now have new designs but the binoculars still remain the same. I felt tempted to buy it just for fun but Peiee persuaded me otherwise.

Previously I was rooting for Phantom to get the girl but today I wanted Raoul live happily ever after with Christine. And when I was a teenager, I was swept away by the ROMANCE (in caps). Today I was thinking stalker, S&M, etc. Gee, has the romantic in me been replaced by a cynic? However at the end, I was this close to crying for the Phantom. Maybe there's hope for me afterall.

The visuals were stunning! They dressed up the proscenium arch of the esplanade theatre with golden Gothic motifs. I was particularly impressed by the "sculptures" of the nude maiden fighting off the satyr/demon/ogre.

The set was truly breath-taking, especially the Phantom's lair with the mechanical boat. It was amazing how they transformed the stage to, among many thing, a lake, a cavern, tunnels, rooftops... And those brilliant dozen or so curtains. OMG - I think I may have developed curtain-fetish.

POTO has a several "opera within an opera" moments. And they made a conscious effort to differentiate between "realistic" and "non-realistic" backdrops. So when it was (e.g) the Don Juan musical, one can see the (obviously) painted, fake backdrops and props. Making things even more theatrical than they are. I can't express this properly but I hope you get the gist.

I love the irony of performers pretending to be performers. And how during certain scenes, we the audience gets to pretend to be The Audience. Len would be able to explain the "Breaking the 4th Wall" concept, but I can't, so let's leave this thought half-formed.

OMG. How cute is the guy playing Raoul? Total, utter eye candy. Had a crush on him until I read his bio and learnt he's a cruise ship performer. *Cue flashbacks of Simon on AI* I felt that performance was terrible, very caberet... very cruise ship. I couldn't help but laugh madly and Peiee thought I was weird. :P

So, POTO was a visual spectacular and the music (lyrics and score) are as powerful as ever. Would have been a terrific production except for one thing - the humans. I felt that the singing, acting, dancing and direction were all below par. Is it just a matinee phenomenon? Were they saving their voices (and energy) for the evening's show? Did I unknowingly watch a show of understudies?

And why did everyone else think it was worthy of a standing ovation?

If I wasn't swamped with work and broke, I would like to watch it again. Just to see if it gets better. I know, it's a crazy thought.

2007-04-14T21:00:00.000-07:00

Part 2

While looking for a video for the previous post, I came across some gems, which I want to highlight now.

POTO was created with Sarah Brightman in mind and till today she is considered to be the best Christine. Too bad I couldn't find a decent video of her. Perhaps that's because YouTube is relatively new and no-one has uploaded footage from over two decade ago.

What I did find were these videos:

- Sarah Brightman's concert (Japan 1992) (hear her amazing voice)

- London musical with Rachel Barrell (LIVE)

- Canadian cast's Rebecca Caine (audio only)

- Movie version with Emma Rossum (maybe a familiar version?)

- a SIMS version!

The clip I finally used had a mixture of Sarah Brightman, Claire Moore, and Rebecca Caine.

Check out this early version of the song. It's so different now.

2007-04-14T20:33:00.000-07:00

Part 1

"Think of Me" from Phantom of the Opera

YouTube text link

Think of me, think of me fondly,
when we've said goodbye.
Remember me every so often-
promise me you'll try.

On that day, that not so distant day,
when you're far away and free
If you ever find a moment, spare a thought for me

Think of all the things
we've shared and seen -
don't think about the way things
might have been . . .

Think of me, think of me waking,
silent and resigned.
Imagine me, trying too hard
to put you from my mind.

Flowers fades,
The fruits of summer fade,
They have their seasons, so do we
but please promise me, that sometimes
you will think of me!

-lyrics with stage directions!

2007-04-13T20:31:00.000-07:00

Goodbye by Spice Girls

YouTube text link

There will come a day
When you will be able, able to say
Never mind the pain, all the aggravation
You know there's a better way
For you and me to be

The times when we would play about
The way we used to scream and shout
We never dreamed you'd go your own sweet way

Goodbye my friend
It's not the end
So glad we made it, time will never change it, no no

Full lyrics

2007-04-12T21:01:00.000-07:00

Bésame Mucho is a Mexican song written in 1940 by Consuelo Velázquez before her sixteenth birthday. (wiki)

WOW! A teenager wrote this? It's so beautiful!

Besame Mucho sung by Andrea Bocelli

YouTube text link

lyrics:
Besame, besame mucho
Como si fuera esta noche la ultima vez

Besame, besame mucho
Que tengo miedo a perderte, perderte despues

Quiero tenerte muy cerca
Mirarme en tus ojos
Verte junto a mi
Piensa que tal ves manana
Yo ya estar lejos
Muy lejos de aqui

English translation:

Kiss me, kiss me a lot,
As if tonight was
the last time.

Kiss me, kiss me a lot,
Because I fear to lose you,
To lose you later on.

I want to have you very close
To see myself reflected in your eyes,
To see you close to me,
Thinking that perhaps by tomorrow
I'll already be far away,
very far from here.

2007-04-08T20:35:00.000-07:00

Words to remember from Len's blog:

There are people who let the world push them down and have its way with them, and then there are those who push right back, who reach out with both their hands, take hold, and start to reshape the world.

2007-04-04T21:45:00.000-07:00

So cute! So cute! So cute!

I just had to post this video. My favourite moment is around 0:15 (or 1:25), when one otter appears to kiss the hand/paw/flipper of the other otter.

Too darn cute.

Video dedicated to Otterman: hope you like this too!

YouTube text link

2007-04-01T18:42:00.000-07:00

Argh! It's so not safe to surf the net, when there are spoilers around every corner.

TQ FrellingBlonde & Quirkysmuse

2007-03-29T22:37:00.000-07:00

From Manhunter #29 via Major Spoilers

Thought I'd take a break from songs today. Pictures are worth 1,000 words afterall.

2007-03-28T21:58:00.000-07:00

Ain't_No_Sunshine by Bill_Withers

Ain't no sunshine when he's gone
It's not warm when he's away
Ain't no sunshine when he's gone
And he's always gone too long, anytime he goes away

Hey I'll leave the young thing alone
But ain't no sunshine when he's gone
Ain't no sunshine when he's gone
Only darkness everyday

Full lyrics here.

2007-03-25T16:34:00.000-07:00

The Itchy & Scratchy Show

I'm coming into my mutant powers. Or so says Superman.

It started, very typically, with the mysterious bite(s). My left pinkie is red, swollen, itchy and painful. I can hardly make out what seems like 2 or 3 bite/sting marks.

Then I noticed I was getting reddish dots all over my limbs. Later on, my leg felt like a relief map of Mordor. And that's when I panicked and ran to the doctor's. He told me it was some viral thing which will take care of itself. Sooner or later. Gee, thanks.

The next morning, the welts had subsided but not disappeared. So now I'm regularly taking my anti-allergy pill and applying calamine lotion. (Which, damnit, I keep calling chamomile lotion. Argh!) (gosh, i had to spell-check these 2 words!)

I think I have HIVES. It can be due to allergic reaction to insect bites or food. Maybe it was the Satay-flavoured broadbeans from GV Plaza? Though hives can be stressed induced too. Wonder if I can use this to get my boss to lay off me? Hmmm...

2007-03-24T19:37:00.000-07:00

And I Am Telling You I'm Not Going

Check out this video, which has BOTH Jennifers' versions. First is Jennifer Holliday LIVE at the 1982 Tony Awards, followed by Jennifer Hudson from the 2006 movie.

YouTube text link

And I am telling you
I'm not going,
Even though the rough times are showing.

We're part of the same place.
We're part of the same time.
We both have the same mind.

I'm not wakin' up tomorrow mornin'
And findin' that there's nobody there.

I'm not gonna leave you,
There's no way I will.

And I am telling you
I'm not going.
You're the best man I'll ever know.
There's no way I can ever go,
No, no, no, no way,
No, no, no, no way I'm livin' without you.
I'm not livin' without you.
I don't want to be free.
I'm stayin',
I'm stayin'.

Full lyrics

***
See other American Idols singing the song:
- Tamyra Gray
- Frenchie Davies
- Lakisha Jones

And something for dear LC, 4 Filipina divas.

2007-03-22T08:27:00.000-07:00

WHO'S YOUR DADDAY??!!!

Last night on American Idol, Blake Lewis performed "Time of the Season".

YouTube text link

I've never heard this song before, so I searched for the original by The Zombies.

YouTube text link

The lyrics of this song are really risque, which explains the raunchy MTV.

It's the time of the season.
When love runs high.
And this time, give it to me easy.
And let me try with pleasured hands.
To take you in the sun to (promised lands).

According to Wiki, this song was the origin of the phrase "Who's your daddy?"

Ah!

See more about The Zombies and their music in this video and online.

2007-03-18T18:11:00.000-07:00

I love Top Gear and I love Simon.

How wonderful when 2 worlds collide. :D

Watch the 11+ minute video on YouTube here. Clever and funny - these two should have their own show!

(Episode dated 23 November 2003)

Edit: After 7 entire seasons, Simon remains in 3rd place*. And he wasn't even trying. Well done, Cowell.

*We must discount Stig, who afterall is the resident racer.

2007-03-12T21:56:00.000-07:00

Gosh, how adorable is this video?

YouTube text link

I Need You by LeeAnn Rimes

You're the hope that moves me
To courage again
You're the love that rescues me
When the cold winds, rage
And it's so amazing
'Cause that's just how you are

I need you like water
Like breath, like rain
I need you like mercy
From heaven's gate

Watch the original MTV.

2007-02-27T19:02:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday Shaun!

An old but great picture

This is his Golden Birthday, as his age is the same as his birth-date.

Link

2007-01-30T11:00:00.000-08:00

This is so awesome!!!

Point your mouse over the link for Snap. Cool, ya? A quick preview of the website. No more looking at the status bar for info or adding title attributes.

And so easy to use on Blogger too. :D

2007-01-24T11:37:00.000-08:00

~~Riding~~Crying in Cars with Boys

One upon a long time ago, I attended a GeogSoc Management Committee meeting. I felt marginalised in the new power structure and was extremely upset. I told the Boyfriend "let's go someplace quiet" and we ended up parked at Clementi Woods. He patiently waited for me to cry my eyes out before offering comfort and practical advice.

In the very recent past, I attended a divisional restructuring brainstorming meeting. I felt that the shakeup not only left me worse off but I was probably the most screwed-over person there. Not.A.Happy.Camper.

I told the boy friend "let's go someplace quiet" and we ended up parked at West Coast Park. He patiently waited for me to cry my eyes out before offering comfort and practical advice.

I'm not looking forward to repeating this pattern. I hope I never end up at Pasir Panjang Ridge, once again crying because of others' machinations.

~
To everything - turn, turn, turn
There is a season - turn, turn, turn
A time to gain, a time to lose
A time to laugh, a time to weep
"Turn! Turn! Turn! (to Everything There Is a Season)"

2007-01-10T19:58:00.000-08:00

Here's Len, wearing the shirt I got him for his birthday. A shirt, which amuses me to note, that matches the curtains. :)

2007-01-01T09:45:00.000-08:00

Its the morning after Shaun + Hwee Peng's wedding and I'm taking advantage of the free PCs at the Club Room. Ah, the perks that come with being a part (even a minor one) of the wedding party. :)

I feel kinda disloyal to the Oois, but the Wong Wedding was The. Best. Wedding. Ever.

EVER.

[Nice music is playing in the background. A sign that I should be here, blogging.]

Before the wedding, Shaun talked about carefully choosing the score to the wedding, even boasting that it would provide people with an Education. I think he did a great job!

Here's a list of songs from the wedding that I could catch. Sometimes the music was too low or I was too busy chatting with my tablemates.

The Wedding Song Selection

There Are Places I Remember (Photo montage)
I Finally Found Someone (Processional)
What A Wonderful World
Come What May
I'm Gonna Get You Good
Its Now or Never
Bed of Roses
Iris
Beautiful Dawn (Wedding video)
Shaft (Second processional)
Let's Stay Together
Over The Rainbow
I Wanna Wake Up With You (Photo montage)
Still The One
You'll Never Walk Alone
Up Where We Belong
Hold On Me
Always On My Mind

2006-12-30T20:30:00.000-08:00

Congrats to Shaun and Hwee Peng on their nuptials!

They legally got hitched at the ROM solemnisation in May. But I think for Shaun, today's Church wedding is when he actually got married.

Usually, I'm not even awake at 10am on Saturdays. So I was pretty pleased when I got up punctually at 8am. I did take a long time getting ready though, so I was late to the ceremony. At 10.03 Shaun called to ask where I was. Imagine that. The bloody GROOM himself called!

I missed the processional and the opening prayers. But I did get there in time for the start of the wedding proper. It was a very surprisingly short service, about half the time it took for my former Boss' Methodist service.

The Church of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary was so beautiful. I was really taken with all the Gothic architectural features and decor. I tried to imagine it, times 10 in scale and grandeur and supposed that must be how the great Cathedrals must look like.

And in continuation of my bimbo streak, I exclaimed to myself: "Cool, the Church has Christmas decoration too." Duh! I guess in my mind Xmas is all about brightly decorated shopping malls, parties and gifts. I all but forgot that it was a religious festival. My bad!

Random Conversations

Shaun: So what time did you come?
Me: 10.15
He: Okay. Did you see me kiss her?
Me: Yeah.
He: Ok, at least you saw the important part.
Me: Ya, saw you kissed her. Twice.
He: Huh?
Me: You kissed her once, came up for air, then kissed her again.
He: Oh.
Me: *mutters* Horny Bastard
He: HEY!!!

~~~

He: Did you eat? Was it good?
Me: Yup. The eclairs were great.
He: *looks around* What bloody eclairs?

Hah! Serves you right for only catering 50 pieces and expecting each guest to only take one. :P

~~~

Me: So how have you been?
He: It's madness! Even yesterday was still rushing things. And today I've not even had anything to drink.
*One of the bridal party comes over with a drink for Shaun*
*He takes a quick sip and then walks over to give it to HP.*
He: Sorry, I'm gonna get some food for her...
Me: Don't worry. If you're busy then I won't talk to you.

So sweet of him, right?

2006-12-28T14:46:00.000-08:00

How stupid am I? I had to *think* before I understood this card.
Perhaps the endless shopping has put me in bimbo mode. Argh!

Courtesy of World of Wonder

2006-12-27T20:51:00.000-08:00

I'm angry with myself for letting someone make me feel Unpretty.

Dang. I should know better than that.

At the end of the day
I have myself to blame
I can’t believe I’m trippin’
- Unpretty by TLC

2006-12-24T21:10:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas!

Have you been keeping up with celebrity gossip?

See how many tabloid headlines you can spot in this hilarious "12 Days of 2006" video.

**Rating: R-21**

2006-12-06T22:28:00.000-08:00

Ode to 26"

**WARNING** If you're easily offended, LEAVE NOW!

For the rest of my freaky friends, enjoy:

YouTube text link

See the lyrics

Watch the "Live" performance on Tom Green LIVE

Check out Mickey Avalon

2006-11-24T20:10:00.000-08:00

And that's just stills!

Pathfinder official site
Release date: 8 February 2007

***I <3 Karl Urban***

2006-10-18T07:44:00.000-07:00

Freddy Fender (1937-2006)

Prior to yesterday's Life! article about his death, I never knew who he was. But I was one of the many people who has been touched by his songs.

More than 5 years ago, I was crying (I can't recall why). Anyway, my then-boyfriend gathered me in his arms and sang:
Just remember, I love you
And I'll be there before the next teardrop falls
*swoon*

Here's Freddy singing that song,"Before the next teardrop falls"

A moving tribute to Freddy, set to one of his hits, "Vaya Con Dios" (Go With God)

And another touching movie, this time the soundtrack is "Wasted Days & Wasted Nights"

Thank you, Freddy, for the music.
And to my ex... te deseo lo mas bueno

2006-10-08T03:46:00.001-07:00

Shanshine, this blog is dedicated to you:

tick... tick... BOOM!

Orli: not really my cup of tea

2006-10-03T06:27:00.000-07:00

Extras (Episode 1)

Orli: Take a good look, see the attractiveness.
Lady: I don't think you are.
Orli: Liar! *storms off*

Hilarious! So ridiculous, I can't stop laughing!

YouTube text link

2006-09-26T19:35:00.000-07:00

Check this out!

She's someone I met through work, whom I've never actually seen in person. Love her blog, especially her food reviews. Everything about her blog is so happy and pretty. :)

Anyway, I just wanted to point out the fairy charm that's in the first picture. I just bought the very same thing on Saturday from this sweet girl, Marie-Anne, who started Tickled Orange.

It was originally part of a necklace, but I just couldn't see myself wearing it. So, I asked Marie-Anne to change it into a bag charm and I fixed it on my new favourite weekend bag. (Thanks to the Oois and the Angs for a fantastic birthday present!) Now it's on my work bag and I'm wondering whether it will look good on other bags too.

Tickled Orange was just one of the many stalls at THAT Bazaar. I headed for the bazaar because I wanted to check out Urban Prairie's t-shirts. LC gave me one for my birthday and gushed about how fabulous these t-shirts were. So much so that I wanted to buy more in different colours and designs. But you can never trust online catalogues so I just had to see the actual colours and try on the different sizes and designs.

While at the Urban Prairie booth, I ran into the lady whom I buy most of my trinkets from. Small world! It turns out she's a UP fan too and she went on to order a LOT of items.

LC is buddies with the UP gals and was actually working across the street from the bazaar. But too bad she fell ill and couldn't come. Bet she would have enjoyed it. Next bazaar appears to be end of Oct at Clarke Quay. Perhaps a girly outing can be arranged with LC, Peiee and Pearly. And end off with some sinful desserts!

2006-09-12T07:20:00.000-07:00

Today I logged on to Blogger, without any post in mind, just to check if I was eligible for Blogger Beta.

And you know what? I AM!!!

I've just migrated and this is my first post on the new platform. :)

Gimme a while to play with all the bells and whistles.

Meanwhile, here's Dilana as she is now

youtube text link

And as she was before

youtube text link

Don't go, Dilana!

2006-09-05T06:20:00.000-07:00

Peiee's birthday dinner

Done:
Invites & rsvp
Restaurant reservation
Cake & candles
Present & giftwrap

To Do:
Remind friends about meeting time
Collect cake from bakery
Bring back present from office
Fetch friends from MRT station

Having slight logistical tangle to work out. I need a car or an extra set of hands. Or someone to accompany me as I run errands. Or someone to do all the work for me! :P

2006-09-04T07:41:00.000-07:00

I'm trying to decide whether to be a hypochondriac and see the doctor, or to suck it up and hope that everything heals on its own.

My usual sounding boards are having personal issues so I can't ask them.

What to do? What to do?

~!~
In other news, Blogger Beta... whoa! Ok, I'm half-a-month late with this discovery, but still, whoa!

2006-08-31T20:52:00.000-07:00

Pretty In Pink

I couldn't decide what to wear today. Actually tried on a couple of tops before settling on a pink cardigan.

When I arrived at the office, I was amazed to see everyone dressed in shades of pink. (Well, Shaun was in bright red.) The tops ranged from orangey-pink shades to purpley-pink hues. Blushing pink to bandong pink.

I wonder why everyone chose this colour. What a coincidence, right?

2006-08-28T23:29:00.000-07:00

A quote from a mass email received today:

Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their work;
If one falls down, his friend can help him up.
But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up!
Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm.
But how can one keep warm alone?
Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves.
A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.
—Ecclesiastes 4:9—12

~%~
I'm living in the land of indecision once again.

On one hand, I do miss him and can't wait to get back to being friends. On the other hand, I'm rather embarrassed at what has passed between us and can't bear to face him.

Meanwhile, seems his life has been busy, busy, busy.

2006-08-25T00:53:00.000-07:00

"Are you really gonna marry a xxx?" asked Shaun.

That question came as a surprise, as it was (a) not connected to the current topic of conversation and (b) just a weird thing to ask.

I was more surprised when he asked me again, several hours later:
He: So you're really marrying a xxx?
Me: Yah. Why are you suddenly asking these questions?
He: I'm just concerned about your happiness.

The funny thing is, I had a similar discussion with Len about 2 weeks earlier at almost the same spot.

(I have not changed my mind.)

Anyway, all this talk is merely conjecture. Marriage isn't even on the distant horizon. Still prefer to be soyfully jingle instead of mappily harried.

See: spoonerism
Fun with Fabelbish!

2006-08-24T06:20:00.000-07:00

What does the name "Magdalene" mean?

The root of the name "Magdalene" is the Hebrew word "migdal," which means "tower," "fortress," or "stronghold." St. Jerome suggested that there was something about Mary Magdalene that was strong and "tower"-like that earned her the nickname.

The more common interpretation of "Magdalene" is "woman from Magdala," which is entirely possible. It has been suggested that since we have no records dating back to the first century that a place called Magdala even existed that it couldn't possibly refer to her place of origin, but most scholars, almost without exception, accept this as the most likely origin of the name.

- from Magdalene.org

And from Behind the Name:

MARLENE
Blend of MARIA and MAGDALENE. Refers, therefore, to Mary Magdalene, a character in the New Testament. The name was first used by the German actress and singer Marlene Dietrich, whose real name was Maria Magdalene von Losch.

2006-08-22T05:32:00.000-07:00

Ode to Captain V

She strode to the reception table in smart 4 and those bad-ass army boots. In a clear voice, she said, "I brought my 2 men." She then motioned for them to sign-in and collect the seminar materials. With a sharp turn, she headed for the seminar room and the 2 army boys dutifully followed her in.

Later, a bunch of us girls started talking about how fantastic she was. Firstly, she looked damned good in the army uniform. We were all wishing that we could carry off that look too.

Secondly, she was a woman used to command. Those guys followed her orders without hesitation and she exuded authority with every step. Even the seminar presenter called her "Maam". Hah!

She so garang.

*kowtows*

2006-08-21T05:17:00.000-07:00

Follow the Yellow Brick Road
(YouTube Rocks! Part 2)

Last week on RockStar: Supernova, Ryan sang "In the Air Tonight". This dark and disturbing song had lyrics like:
if you told me you were drowning
I would not lend a hand.

I went to trusty YouTube to watch the Phil Collins original and found Phil explaining how the song came to be.

Scrolling down, I also found 2 LOTR videos with this as the background music. Video 1 is for hobbit lovers, while those who like taller races can see Video 2.

The ultimate find was a collection of Sean Bean photos set to this tune.
I'm very proud of myself for managing to NOT lick the monitor. (It was a close fight though).

After watching the video and dissolving into mush, I noticed the column "Explore more videos". There's so much more candy to be had! Not just Beanie, but all the others too.

I'm a happy fangirl!

2006-08-19T07:31:00.000-07:00

I ran into someone very dear to me, who introduced me to his date as "a classmate".

classmate?

I don't even warrant the courtesy of being called a friend?

*fumes*

10 years of affection, support and encouragement and I am a CLASSMATE?

Wanker!

2006-08-18T05:01:00.000-07:00

I don't get it

Len blogged:

On Sunday I thought I saw an old friend from university, Johanna, as I gazed out the window of the bus. It was only a second, but a smile flashed across her face for a moment; then both it, and she, were gone. I wonder if she saw me. Perhaps she did. A moment of connection, in the passing of a bus.

(And after that, [my name], we slipped back into time.)

What's that supposed to mean???

2006-08-13T21:35:00.000-07:00

WHAT HAVE I DONE?

When will I see you again?
When will we share precious moments?

Are we in love or just friends?

When Will I See You Again by Three Degrees

(an altogether too-chirpy rendition for such sad lyrics. the version running in my head is definitely more sombre.)

2006-08-11T09:46:00.000-07:00

Random, happy pics of the (not-so-) new DC Comics logo

Old vs new logo

2006-08-10T07:49:00.000-07:00

On Len's birthday, we texted:
Me: Happy Birthday, you old fogey! ;)
He: Just you wait!

9 days later, when it was my turn:
He: Happy happy Birthday! Just dreamed of you. :)
Me: Thanks! Was it a good dream?
He: Actually i dreamed i was asleep in the morning in a nice serviced apartment and you woke me up with an open-the-door phonecall. Getting to be a habit, it seems.

The next day, over coffee:
Me: What did you mean by getting to be a habit?
He: Didn't you wake me up like that before?
Me: Since when?
He: Didn't you? Or did I dream that up as well?

2006-08-07T06:05:00.000-07:00

For my birthday this year, I would dearly love to watch Battlestar Galactica.

I was hoping my friends would be psychic enough to get me both seasons. Not the uber-expensive DVD box set. The JB or downloaded version would do. Heh.

Len came up with the brilliant idea of borrowing from the Library but they only had Season 1. Even worse, its designated as "For Restricted Use". What does that mean? Viewing in the library only?

I got the same result when I searched for Immortel and Serenity. And Firefly isn't available at all. Darn.

2006-08-06T04:22:00.000-07:00

YOUTUBE ROCKS!!!

Bless the sweet, dear folks behind YouTube! I hope they're rolling in dough and will lead long, happy and fulfilled lives.

I've only just dipped my toesies into the great ocean of YouTube goodness. Mostly watching random comedy clips and more recently RockStar: Supernova clips. And as you would have noticed, learnt how super easy it is to blog YouTube videos.

It never occurred to me to explore the search function. And then one day, I just decided to search Clay Aiken.

WHOA!!!

There are a LOT of videos. Stuff I would have otherwise never have seen.

I had a major fangirl moment watching these videos. I remember now why Aiken is my Idol.

Here's a video I've been playing on a loop. Clay's singing one of my favourite songs - "I can't make you love me" by Bonnie Raitt.

*cries*

2006-07-31T07:09:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Leonard!

Thank you for a decade of friendship.

2006-07-26T04:44:00.000-07:00

This afternoon, Shaun sent a press release via email:

Dear friends and associates,

I am pleased to inform you that after a horrendous week of packing, migration and unpacking, my humble abode, the Fortress of Testicular Fortitude is now up and running.

The main attraction of the Fortress is Shaun's Hacienda of Action Figures and Toys (SHAFT - yes, THAT black private dick who's a sex machine with all the chicks.) which promises music and blasters and
old Jedi masters. And once again, Em, thanks for coming up with the brilliant acronym.

Featuring a collection spanning seven years, from DC to Marvel, Dragon Ball to Gundam, Star Wars to Lord of the Rings, Transformers to WWE to and yes, even Brats to Barbie, this gallery is a culmination and consummation of Shaun's love for anything fantastic in plastic.

Do take a gander.

And don't miss his post about the migration either!

Here's (part of) his end-of-renovation presents. He came up with an even better place to display them.

Instead of below the mini version of this poster (look behind the toys on the first shelf).

Coincidentally, all those posters were given after we haven't seen each other for a few days.

*click on pics to enlarge*

2006-07-22T08:21:00.000-07:00

I've been listening to The Mr Brown Show and in the Comic Con Day 3 podcast, Mr Miyagi talks about eating Hostess Donnetts (at about 7min, 40secs).

(At first, I thought he was purposely mispronouncing donuts, until I checked out the Hostess website.)

If I had a million dollars, I would bring my friends to Comic Con. We'd fly business class, stay at a suite(s) in a luxury hotel, have chauffeur-driven big-assed SUVs, passes to the entire convention and all-related panels and workshops. And everyone would have ample spending money! We'd probably need to ship back all our stuff in containers. :D

And I would make sure the WAGs are entertained too. If they won't brave the crowds, then they can enjoy shopping, spas, shows or fine dining. Whatever floats their boat.

I can just imagine how much fun it would be to see Shaun going wild at the DC booth. Or to go exploring the Transformers, Marvel and Vertigo booths with Len. Sharing the Trekkie experience with Tjin-Kai. Screaming when I spot any Josh Wheedon product. Checking out the hot LOTR cosplayers. And so much more!

Sigh, what a fantastic dream...

You know, I still think about that episode of OC, where Seth gave up Comic Con to go traipsing to Tijuana. Hello? What was he thinking? Crazy!

2006-07-20T20:50:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I get overwhelmed when I think about Shaun, of all people, being married, owning a flat and organising a wedding. It's all just so... ADULT.

But when I see pictures like these, I'm reminded that deep down inside, he's still just a little boy. (phew!)

Many mere mortals have wistfully longed to bring home in-store displays, but it takes a Superman to actually do it. Woah, dude!

More photos at this thread.

SM, dear, if you are reading this, I think your display is unbalanced. The middle shelf needs a certain something... *evil grin*
(hurry up and come back to work! i can't wait to give you your end-of-renovation present.)

2006-07-18T09:46:00.000-07:00

" And Rob had high standards for friends and lovers - which was why he could not compromise even when he was the most desperate.

He believed that the people in his life were the best in the world, and having them in his life reflected to the outside world exactly who he was."

from Brand New Friend (2005) by Mike Gayle

2006-07-10T08:10:00.000-07:00

I don't like confrontations. I don't even like giving my opinion, just in case it upsets the other party.

So when I actually do come up to someone to express my unhappiness, that's a very big thing for me.

I then expect the other party and I to have a rational discussion. I do not like to be told that I'm over-reacting or to be given a flippant, insincere apology. Neither do I like to hear a defeatist, self-pitying, "Fine! It's my fault. I just can't do anything right."

Just ask me to explain why I'm upset and then give a sincere apology. If you think you did no wrong, then say so. We can always agree to disagree. I just want to hash things out and then move on.

Is that so unreasonable?

2006-07-09T04:55:00.000-07:00

It's Only Rock & Roll, But I Like It!

is back! Woohoo!

It's still early on in the game, so the various personalities have yet to distinguish themselves. I also find it difficult NOT to compare with last season's performances.

See, for example, Knockin' on Heaven's Door by Jordis (Season 1) vs Toby (Season 2).

2006-07-04T05:11:00.000-07:00

With Friends Like These...

I forced Shaun to watch the ONIB video this morning. And I do mean forced.

During the video, he was cringing and contorting. He looked like he was going to cry. It wasn't a pretty sight and he barely came out intact.

I know he weathered through all 4 minutes only because of our deep, abiding Superhero bond. I do feel a tad guilty for torturing him so, but it was fricking hilarious to watch him!

Soon after, our intern walked by and sang the chorus, eliciting another round of moans from Shaun. And when our lunch date wanted to sing a few bars, I swear Shaun turned green. To top it all off, a common friend of ours emailed us the ONIB mp3.

*pauses to laugh my ass off*

I don't understand why a piece of 80s kitsch could affect the Man-of-Steel so, but he said it was just REALLY REALLY BAD. Got meh?

And in response, he decided to show me quality music. Do check out his 4th of July rampage.

Coincidentally, I found out yesterday that Leonard is currently spending ~~one~~ a few nights in Bangkok. I think this is the final outcome of the much-talked-about Bali / temple tour thingy that never quite took off.

T-26 to Len's birthday.

2006-07-03T07:54:00.000-07:00

Let the Mania Begin!

Credit: Least I Could Do
LICD is one of my guilty pleasures. Can't help but love a guy who calls himself Rayne Jesus Dragon Anakin Aragorn Summers!

Cap'n Crunch (Wikipedia)

2006-07-01T06:05:00.000-07:00

One night in Bangkok makes a hard man humble

This is for ~~Shaun~~ Kal-El, who doubted that this song existed.

Kal-El was given the literature and knowledge of all the worlds in the 28 known galaxies. But maybe Jor-El had too much good taste to include this song!

Murray Head - One Night In Bangkok

What's the connection between Abba and ONIB? Find out here.

ONIB will always remind me of midnight cruising in Keemin's BMW with Tjin-Kai and company. For some reason, this song was a regular feature on the stereo system.

2006-06-30T07:55:00.000-07:00

I watched Superman I last night and thought this would make great wedding vows for Mrs. Wong:

Can you read my mind?
Do you know what it is that you do to me?
I don't know who you are
Just a friend from another star.

Here I am, like a kid out of school.
Holding hands with a god.
I'm a fool.

Will you look at me?
Quivering.
Like a little girl, shivering.
You can see right through me.

Can you read my mind?
Can you picture the things I'm thinking of?
Wondering why you are...
All the wonderful things you are.

You can fly!
You belong in the sky!
You and I...
Could belong to each other.

If you need a friend,
I'm the one to fly to.
If you need to be loved,
Here I am.

Read my mind.

- thought by Lois Lane while on her maiden flight with Superman

This scene was so romantic. The last couple of lines just slayed me. *sobs*

2006-06-29T06:55:00.000-07:00

I've just finished reading "A Song For Arbonne" by Guy Gavriel Kay.

Something about the cover caught my eye and made me pick it up. I don't usually read medieval fantasy, but Charles De Lint praised it as "the ideal novel", so I borrowed it.

That was a good move. I was won over pretty early in the story. By the end, I had laughed, cried, became both frightened and excited.

It's such a beautiful, multi-layered story. Kay managed to weave in so many themes and created characters that I really felt for. There is politics, religion and war. Love in all its aspects. Music.

The way the plot worked out was brilliant, it tied up all the loose ends and everything was set right. But ending right does not mean a happy ending.

I love how tragic this book is. I love how everyone practices self-denial and restraint for "the greater good". Isn't that just how life is? Happiness is a fantasy. Duty is the reality.

As I read the final pages, I just wanted weep. Both for the fate of the characters and for there being no more to read.

p.s. in one alternative cover, the hero looks like Eric Bana. *screams & dies*

2006-06-29T06:45:00.000-07:00

Coinage in a Game of Castles and Nations

Thy table set with rarest wine,
Choice meats, sweet-ripened fuit
And candlelight when we dine
In Fionvarre.

On we two the high stars will shine
And the holy moon lend her light.
If not here you will be mine
In Fionvarre

Queen Ariane: When the day comes that a man and a woman of our society may wed because they choose each other freely, then talk to me of loyalty. But so long as women are coinage in a game of castles and nations, then I will admit no such duty and will dedicate my life to changing the way of things.

King Blaise: Why should it matter if you are quiet or not?

QA: Discretion is at the heart of all of this. I am not here to bring shame to anyone, least of all myself. There is no public duty I owe my lord or my people in which I have been found wanting. The duties I owe myself are different. What happens alone at night between two people who are adults about it need not impact upon the world in any way.

KB: Then why bother? Why bother to be together?

QA: We come together to glory in the gift of life that the goddess gave us... or the god, if you prefer. Sometimes the best things in our lives come to us of a night and are gone in the morning. Have you never found that?

- A Song For Arbonne (1992)
by Guy Gavriel Kay

2006-06-28T05:52:00.000-07:00

Normal relations

On occasion

Future possibility

2006-06-27T20:45:00.000-07:00

SMS-ing with darling Lesley:

She: Don't let stress get to u. Have little amy moments :)

Me: What are those?

She: La di da at raffles, shop for trinkets, eat a chocolate cake, read a graphic novel, throw dartboard pins at YODA :)

2006-06-27T06:39:00.000-07:00

I feel really stupid.

I got nagged again - the third time in 24 hours. And it's for really dumb things that I SHOULD'VE anticipated. But I didn't. My ex-Manager would've probably known to look out for these lapses, but I totally had no clue. Will foresight come from experience? What if I'm just that brainless?

I used to think that they need me around. But as I hobble from one minor glitch to another, I wonder if they aren't better off without me. I'm probably slowing them down.

It has been so long since a superior told me I was an asset. Maybe because it's been so long since I was one. I used to be so cherished, back in my little pond, but in this big ocean, I'm drowning. More and more, I feel like I don't have what it takes.

I can't see how I will develop the know-how of my ex-Manager, the brilliance of that AM or even the competency of an ex-Exec.

What am I doing here, walking among giants?

2006-06-22T04:57:00.000-07:00

It's been so long since last I blogged. And after such an absence, it's very difficult to start again. But my friend wisely said today, "Sometimes you have to let go of an imperfect post." There's a tendency to overthink blog content, to rework sentences and to retouch photos. But sometimes, you have to step back and just let it be published.

After being eyeball-deep in work for about 8 weeks, I've taken about 3 weeks to de-pressurise. It's like slowly ascending to the surface after deep-sea diving. You can't go too fast, or you'll get the bends. I capped off the recovery process with a mini-break and enjoyed - all too briefly - the life of a lady of leisure.

The workplace is radically different now. Old faces have been replaced by new blood. The work is new too. And more changes lie ahead.

I think I will let go now and publish this. :)

2006-04-03T05:33:00.000-07:00

The enemy of my enemy is my friend

I love her. That woman I was %^&*ing angry with and hated with every fibre of my being. She's gone through some amazing changes and now I love her.

*puts her on a pedestal and worships*

2006-03-31T06:06:00.000-08:00

Yanshan is pissed off with the valuephrenic post.

I never meant anything malicious when I wrote that post.

I was thinking about how she led a frugal life before going on her Nepal trip. And the many times I saw her carefully calculating her income from coaching and then deducting her bills. She'll then work out cost-saving measures so that she can afford theatre or film fest tickets. Even know I think she's watching her spending so as to pay for her Accounting Degree course.

I think of Yanshan as a thrifty gal with aspirations. When she wants something, she would sacrifice a lot in order to acquire it. Or in other words: scrimp now, splurge later.

I'm absolutely mortified that she took it badly.

Sorry, Shan!

2006-03-30T04:59:00.000-08:00

Saw very interesting quiz results on Shan's blog. At first, I couldn't find a quiz link, so I googled "5 Love Languages" and tried out this quiz.

My results:
#1: Acts of Service
#2: Quality Time
#3: Words of Affirmation
#4: Receiving Gifts
#5: Physical Touch

When I went back to compare with Shan's results, I found the link to her quiz.

My results:
My primary love language is probably Quality Time
with a secondary love language being Acts of Service

Complete set of results

Quality Time:		10
Acts of Service:		8
Words of Affirmation:		8
Receiving Gifts:		3
Physical Touch:		1

Information
Unhappiness in relationships, according to Dr. Gary Chapman, is often due to the fact that we speak different love languages. Sometimes we don't understand our partner's requirements, or even our own. We all have a "love tank" that needs to be filled in order for us to express love to others, but there are different means by which our tank can be filled, and there are different ways that we can express love to others.

Take the quiz

2006-03-30T01:32:00.000-08:00

Blogitant ergo sum.
People blog about me. Therefore I exist.

2006-03-28T03:22:00.000-08:00

His name is Cheeon (though I'm not sure how it's spelled). He's in the Navy and he's Emma's boyfriend. (Emma being Pei Ee's childhood friend.)

I don't know much
But I know I love you

A bunch of us ended up at Holland Village after Tjin-Kai's birthday dinner. We started talking about theater productions and I explained that I missed a lot of shows because I was saving up for Rent. Suddenly, he sang:

Five hundred twenty-five thousand six hundred minutes...

Everything went still. The background noises faded away. I think I even stopped breathing as I stared at him in awe.

He then went on to say he missed Rent while in America and England. And he rushed to the SISTIC counter after returning from sailing only to find that the run had ended.

He says he may not want to watch the movie as he still wants to see the musical. Ah, a purist.

He has earned major brownie points - not that it's a big deal to be in my good books.

2006-03-27T04:40:00.000-08:00

Is this Yanshan or what?

ST LifeStyle 26 March 2006

How many times has she eaten grass or refused to attend gatherings, just to save money? And then she's off on a holiday or playing with a new toy?

2006-03-24T22:00:00.000-08:00

CLEO Singapore (January 2006)
Page 149: HIS SAY

Click on pic to read article

Excerpt:
Over the course of months working together, they form a team within a team developing mutual dislikes of people, fostering in jokes and constantly alluding to their relationships in the outside world as if to instantly dispel any hint of sexual tension.

First came across this article in February while at the hairdresser's. Took me this long to track it down at the library, scan and upload it. But, it's finally here!

Except for the 2nd last para (which I don't get), it's a good description of a lot of my friendship with guys - in school and at work.

2006-03-24T00:37:00.000-08:00

Alright!!!

Full Article

Excerpt:
- CBS's ROCK STAR to select lead singer for the new band -- SUPERNOVA -- formed by drummer Tommy Lee Motley Crüe) with bassist Jason Newsted (Metallica) and guitarist Gilby Clarke (Guns N' Roses)

- Summer 2006

- Dave Navarro and Brooke Burke will return as hosts

- some format twists with a different music celebrity or rock legend each week

I wonder if any Asians would make it to the top 16?

2006-03-23T02:49:00.000-08:00

This is not dedicated to anyone. Neither is it indicative of my mood. I just like the songs.

Like We Never Loved At All
Faith Hill & Tim McGraw
But I’m still living with your goodbye,
and you’re just going on with your life.

I think I first heard this on the AMAs but I was too distracted by Faith Hill's outfit to pay attention to the lyrics, which are actually great!

Walking After Midnight
Patsy Cline
I go out walking after midnight out in the moonlight
Just hoping maybe you're somewhere walking after midnight searching for me

2006-03-15T05:54:00.000-08:00

May 2005, chatting about Star Wars premiere.

Shaun: Do you know why Natalie Portman has a shaved head?
Me: Yup, it's for her new movie.

A few days later.

Shaun: Here (passes me a graphic novel). You should know the full significance behind her role.

Later that night.

Amy: *speechless and mindblown*

V for Vendetta rocks!

I wanted to tell others about this phenomenal work, just like Shaun did to me. I planned to get it for Len's birthday last July, but couldn't find it in Borders. Right now there are no copies in Borders and MPH. Only Kinokuniya seems to carry it. Hope it will not be sold out before I get a chance to get it for Tjin's birthday.

After reading the graphic novel, I was SO looking forward to the movie. I jumped at the chance to catch one of the very first screenings earlier today.

IT ROCKS!

It may be a little cerebral but that's the beauty of it. It reminds me of 70s or 80s cult hits. And I hope many people will see it with an open mind and come to appreciate the awesomeness of this version.

Other than the inevitable changes when adaptating to film, it was very faithful to the novel. It helps to read the novel before or after watching the film, not only to grasp the subtleties but also to clear any doubts about the plot.

But on the whole, it is a great movie experience.

England Prevails! *crazed laughter*

2006-03-14T06:01:00.000-08:00

Tjin-Kai's birthday celebration has been rescheduled to Friday to accommodate the Lims.

A mischievous part of me wonders what might ensue if I said I was otherwise engaged? Would it be pointed out that we only have 1 opportunity annually to fraternise with the Lims and that if I couldn't make room in my social calendar, then too bad for me?

In any case, there is no question regarding my attendance at this soiree. I do not think I can not be present.

So, off we go to Ristorante Da Valentino.

Some informative reviews:
* Good quality home-style Italian eatery
* Suburban gem
* Sample mama's home cooking
* Authentic Italian cuisine

The man who would give us gastronomical bliss

2006-03-13T22:24:00.000-08:00

"The only thing I'll regret is leaving you," he said.

Hearing that, I decided to publish my angsty post. It came to me one idle moment while musing about Brokeback Mountain.

Hill Street Blues

As long as we stay up on Hill Street, everything will be fine. We'll be together 10 hours a day, 5 days a week. Communing over food and cigarettes. Commiserating on harsh working conditions and keeping each other motivated.

But always at the mercy of our foreman who could fire us at anytime.

Yet, once we've left Hill Street, that will be the end of us. For we won't have an excuse to be together anymore. He says we will meet "once in a while" but as it is, we rarely hang out after work and he has legislated that "weekends are for the wife".

*sigh*

He was a friend of mine
He was a friend of mine
Every time I think about him now
Lord I just can't keep from cryin'
'Cause he was a friend of mine

hear the song: (sample)

2006-03-12T06:40:00.000-08:00

Ennis: If you can't fix it, you gotta stand it.
Jack: For how long?
Ennis: For as long as you can ride it. There's no reins on this one.
- Brokeback Mountain (2005)

"Mother," I explained, "had only one great love. It didn't work out. There were incompatibilities. Family. Geography. The same old story. I think she decided early on that if she couldn't have the man she wanted, she would do with no man at all."
- Bachelor Brothers' Bed & Breakfast (1996) by Bill Richardson

I will make no mistakes in the name of loneliness. I have my work and an uncomplicated life. I don't want to feel anything again... ever.
- Dr. Han Suyin in Love is a Many Splendored Thing (1955)

3 quotes which caught my eye this past week, from movies, books and web.