Interview with Rick Warren

Someone sent me this email. I thought I'd share since Rick Warren's book, Purpose Driven Life has been such a blessing to me.

You will enjoy the new insights that Rick Warren has, with his wife now having cancer and him having 'wealth' from the book sales. This is an absolutely incredible short interview with Rick Warren,'Purpose Driven Life ' author and pastor of Saddleback Church in California.

In the interview by Paul Bradshaw with Rick Warren, Rick said: People ask me, What is the purpose of life? And I respond: In a nutshell, life is preparation for eternity. We were not made to last forever, and God wants us to be with Him in Heaven. One day my heart is going to stop, and that will be the end of my body-- but not the end of me.I may live 60 to 100 years on earth, but I am going to spend trillions of years in eternity. This is the warm-up act - the dress rehearsal. God wants us to practice on earth what we will do forever in eternity.

We were made by God and for God, and until you figure that out, life isn't going to make sense. Life is a series of problems: Either you are in one now, you're just coming out of one, or you're getting ready to go into another one. The reason for this is that God is more interested in your character than your comfort; God is more interested in making your life holy than He is in making your life happy. We can be reasonably happy here on earth, but that's not the goal of life. The goal is to grow in character, in Christ likeness. This past year has been the greatest year of my life but also the toughest, with my wife, Kay, getting cancer.

I used to think that life was hills and valleys - you go through a dark time, then you go to the mountaintop, back and forth. I don't believe that anymore. Rather than life being hills and valleys, I believe that it's kind of like two rails on a railroad track, and at all times you have something good and something bad in your life. No matter how good things are in your life, there is always something bad that needs to be worked on. And no matter how bad things are in your life, there is always something good you can thank God for. You can focus on your purposes, or you can focus on your problems: If you focus on your problems, you're going into self-centeredness, which is my problem, my issues, my pain.' But one of the easiest ways to get rid of pain is to get your focus off yourself and onto God and others. We discovered quickly that in spite of the prayers of hundreds of thousands of people, God was not going to heal Kay or make it easy for her- It has been very difficult for her, and yet God has strengthened her character, given her a ministry of helping other people, given her a testimony, drawn her closer to Him and to people.

You have to learn to deal with both the good and the bad of life. Actually, sometimes learning to deal with the good is harder. For instance, this past year, all of a sudden, when the book sold 15 million copies, it made me instantly very wealthy. It also brought a lot of notoriety that I had never had to deal with before. I don't think God gives you money or notoriety for your own ego or for you to live a life of ease. So I began to ask God what He wanted me to do with this money, notoriety and influence. He gave me two different passages that helped me decide what to do, II Corinthians 9 and Psalm 72.
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First, in spite of all the money coming in, we would not change our lifestyle one bit.. We made no major purchases.Second, about midway through last year, I stopped taking a salary from the church. Third, we set up foundations to fund an initiative we call The Peace Plan to plant churches, equip leaders, assist the poor, care for the sick, and educate the next generation. Fourth, I added up all that the church had paid me in the 24 years since I started the church, and I gave it all back. It was liberating to be able to serve God for free..We need to ask ourselves: Am I going to live for possessions? Popularity?Am I going to be driven by pressures? Guilt? Bitterness? Materialism? Or am I going to be driven by God's purposes (for my life)?
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When I get up in the morning, I sit on the side of my bed and say, God, if I don't get anything else done today, I want to know You more and love You better. God didn't put me on earth just to fulfill a to-do list. He's more interested in what I am than what I do.

Wedding Planners

So, I've jump onto the bandwagon of the celebrity syndrom by needing a wedding planner. I wonder why!? Considering my time's pretty flexi and I've got a lot of it, plus loads of contacts to be my own Jennifer Lopez. But after much negotiation, urging and persuading (by my fiance), I've reluctantly (but secretly willing) gave in to having one to boss around. LOL. Kidding...

We met about 5 wedding planners before we decided we were confortable with the one we've got. It was tiring and taxing because having to arrange for meetings is not the easiest thing with event planners as they tend to always be tied up at some form of banquet. I won't reveal who we picked in the end. Maybe I will, after the wedding, so stay tune. But I'll give you a list of the ones we met.

If you've got a celebrity boyfriend like I had, who has to get a planner (well, actually it was more out of fear that I'd turn into Bridezilla) then give these nice peeps a call! I'm sure they'd be really nice companions with great tips and advice to make the whole wedding planning a walk in the park. Currently, my stress-o-meter is at the lows...I'm not feeling it yet as there are months to go. But wedding planner extrodinare has manage to get us the venues that we wanted, so all is well!

I Do Weddings

PIC: Shen Yi

Tel: +6 012 372 4887

Email: shenyi@ido.com.my

Web: www.ido.com.my

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Just Heavenly

PIC: Ann Lee
Add: NO.47 Jalan Terasek, Bangsar Baru, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Tel: +6 012 254 5068
Email: ann.justheavenly@gmail.com
Web: www.justheavenly.biz

Michelle Wedding Consultants
PIC: Michelle Chow
Add:No. 12a-1, Jalan Damai Raya 2, Off Jalan Alam Damai, Cheras, 56000, KL, Malaysia.
Tel: +6 012 252 5579
Email: michelle@michelleweddingconsultants.com
Web: www.michelleweddingconsultants.com

Stephen Foong Wedding Planner

PIC: Stephen Foong

Tel: 012-2362990

E-mail:mailto:foong_stephen@yahoo.com

Web: www.stephenfoong.com

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The Occasions
PIC: KenG
Add: No47-0-6, Kristal Court, Jalan Permai, 50460, KL, Malaysia.
Tel: +6 012 385 2237
Email: theoccassions@gmail.com

Placed in alphabetical order and not order of preference. Some advice, meet up with your wedding planners with a set of questions you want to know and you'll be able to gauge by the time your done with the meetings who you're most comfortable with. Email me if you need any advice on this @ admin@szeaccessories.com

NASAM

"Orchid!, Orchids for sale! One for your Mrs?"...

... Sounds like a scene from Oliver Twist? Well, not quite similar unless you consider the fact that it was done in goodwill to help the misfortunate along that line.

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Since we didn't have cell group today (A small group of church members meeting), I thought I'd use cell group time to write about something the cell group did for the community. One very early Sunday morning, we braced ourselves and braved the Nasam Carnival, to be of help, by selling the gorgeous flowers for a good cause. Our entire cell group was suppose to go but only 4 people turned up. How sad! :( It was actually for the National Association of Stroke Malaysia. Acronym N.A.S.A.M. If you've never gotten a heart attack, chances are, you've never heard of it.

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I know of it because I know the owner (really) and cause my late grandad suffered from stroke and currently my aunt's suffering from it too. It's a tough life! But NASAM gives hope to these stroke patients by giving them FREE (yes, you heard it right) therapy, gives them an avenue to find their strength back. Donations are more than welcome. Wanna know more about it, read HERE!

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We had lots of fun just lending our hands and our time at the carnival. We were so blessed to have been selling the flowers. Just looking at them for one morning really brightened up our day and it was an amazing learning experience. That morning, we graduated from amatures to horticulturist! And talking about "hot", we truly thank God for two huge trees we were under that shaded us from the crazy Malaysian heat and sun. Pass noon day and into the 3pm heat, we still felt like it was morning. A light breeze constantly blew our way but I suppose the none stop business kept us from feeling clammy.

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Charity was so fun and all we had to do was to be there, open bags for the pots, pretend we know how to take care of orchids (we eventually learned of course), how to chat up the customers and learn a new skill. Orchid experts came in throngs and bought them like buying... newspaper.

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Now my fiance says Phalaenopsis without getting his tongue in knots and is quite the expert at selling them too. He was indeed the "aunty's favourite" for the day.

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Above: The most expensive pot of Phalaenopsis sold at RM120 for a stalk of 6 flowers. I got a yellow pot for dad! He loves them...

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Above: Jon Tjin (our 'REAL' cell leader) bagging the pot for a customer. One of the requirements for the job- knowing how to open plastic bags. Think it's easy? Try it! :P
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Above: For the life of me, I don't know what hybrid this is. I was searching under "Warm Climate" but this might be a "Cold Climate" species? Anyone?

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Also, if you're an orchid expert, do share some of your tips with us. We'd love to know how many times we need to water them and how much sun light they need? Whether or not putting them under a full blown fan will make them whither faster? Share...please.

For the rest of you, I recommend A Practical Guide to Care for Orchids and Cultivation by Michael Tibbs- a book my mum got for dad. Enjoy!

The Executioner's Song

Another well written play happening at Damansara Utama Methodist Church for only RM5.

Life is about choices – What is yours? This July, DUMC brings you a drama of a different tune. Join us, as we march along to The Executioner’s Song.' Parental guidance is highly recommended. Parents are cautioned that some material may be inappropriate for children under 13.

Date
10 July 2009 (Friday)
11 July 2009 (Saturday)
12 July 2009 (Sunday)

Time
8.30–10.00pm

Watch the trailers for the play to get a glimpse of what the play is about.

BMW Z4 Launch

Priviledges of having a fiance with BMW white card invites. Gorgeous model! Car and catwalk- both! Great eye candy.

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Above: The new BMW Z4 unveiled.
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Above: Clothes and bags from Shanghai Tang. Love the details in the clutch and dress.

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Above: Í said, I love the dude, he says he likes the Tumi pullies and carry-alls.

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Above: Andrew's models strutting the good stuff. Jimmy Choo shoes to covet.

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Above: Love the low t-back in reigns of metallic gathers, leather heels and bag.

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Above: Champagne before dinner with carviar and foie gras to tease your palette, plus free valet. I could live with that if they threw in this James Bond look-a-like :p

Happee Birdays Boys!

Two best friends, two very happy birthdays.

Above: SY's half eaten watermelon slice of vanilla ice cream...

Above: Basking Robbin's Vanilla Ice Cream cake with little car candles for the boy.

Above: Pressies to match...

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Above: Jon's Death By Chocolate dome!

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Above: Jon with us gurls. Who's the lucky guy!?

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I love Bangkok 09

Shopping in Bankok is always a treat. Cheap fashion, good, massage and beer. So, Naomi and I went and shop hopping along Siam Square to visit some little boutiques with some really nice decor. Each shop had their own quirky interior design to boot. Most of the time we traveled by foot but otherwise, we'd take a cabbie to further places.

Above: Don't do taxis. Take the city tuk tuk. Unlike the ones in Phuket, these ones can actually only sit 2 people at a time. Or at most 3 if you're tiny. While I love the hustle and bustle of the vendor streets of Thailand, I prefer the chic part of it better.

Above: British inspired shoplots during the colonial times are still seen. Even the more modern shops like this chocolaterie still keeps an English touch with wooden doors and glass panels.

Above: To Die For! Junkyard Sale. Not many people when we arrived. A bit quiet and lonely. Saw Devon Aoki's brother Steve Aoki though. Well, who that? DJ lar, ya know!? Actually, I wasn't too sure of who he was but Naomi went around the world just looking for him.

Above: Thonglor and it's little nooks and corners. Love this place. Reminds me a little of Australia. Nice little cafes and cute shops for shopping. Slightly more high end, cleaner and fresh-er (yes, the city air reaks). Here's also where the have rows of high end furnitures for sale. Think Phillipe Stark.

Above: Of course, Siam Square is a must. Small little shops with a a different taste each. Latest copies of high end fashion at a minimal price. We usually go at night cause it's cooler. In the day, we just hide ourselves in the malls.

Above: I hadddd to introduce Naomi to Cream and Fudge....have I mentioned how much I scream for ICE CREAM?

I love Phuket 09

Phuket was a leisure trip. A relaxing walk about town and just enjoying the stay at Phuket Hilton with fiance's family. The lot of children sure made it a much more memorable trip. Kids do say the funniest things. The last time I was there was during a dive trip two years ago. Nothing much has changed.
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Of course before going, I knew I just had to have a go at the foot reflexalogy and aromatherapy oil body massage. It's really quite reasonable at RM25 for foot massage and RM40 for a full body massage. Compared to a hefty RM48 here for a 45 minutes foot and RM80 full body.
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Food is always great in Thailand. I suppose it's the spices and all the Tom Yam. Never really had a problem finding good tasty food, even at the local eateries. I of course had to have my Cream and Fudge Factory (ice cream). After all the blazing heat makes you wanna soak yourself in vanilla ice cream. So eatting it just about fulfills that crazy idea.

Above: Waiting lounge at Phuket Hilton to await the buggy train that takes you into the lobby aread.

Above: Gorgeous scenery as you drive into the hotel hidden in this lush greenery.

Above: The open air reception area gives it a tropical feel. No air conditioning or even celing fans. Just the warm sea breeze periodically floating just very lightly in the air.

Above: A lake and more greenaries with soft lighting for a quite rendezvous. Quite the perfect romantic get away.

Above: Typical tropical hotels ca'n't live without the frangipanis. We saw some Mat Salleh's picking them up, I suppose to either make into a garland or throw into the bathtub for a petal bath.

Above: Beautiful view of the sea from our rooms.

Above: One of the many pools to relax. Think thick story book and a tall glass of sparkling Sangria.

Above: The restaurant in Hilton itself. So, if you're too lazy to walk out, eat in.

Above: OTHERWISE, restaurants and eateries are a plenty. Just a road away on a tuk-tuk. Shouldn't cost you more than RM20 for a whole load.

Above: Opt for an open air cafe style diner.

Above: ...Or a modern minimalist Western Deli.

Above: Or be adventurous and try the vendors. This one had really good tom yam noodle in hots soup. Sizzling!

Above: Because there really isn't much to do about town, visit a bar. This one had a baby elephant at the entrance. A Flintstone Dino Bar with waitresses dressed in brown shrouds.

Above: Not much of a shopping haven but lots of reasonable souvenirs to get. We love Jungceylon cause of the aircondition. But along the roads just outside the mall, there are plenty of little stalls to buy your sarongs, bikinis, slippers, boxing gloves...and what nots.

That's all folks! Yaba Daba Doo...

10 Things to do in HK...

...besides all the eating and all the scrumptious food, there's lots to do in HK. Yes, little island it might be but filled with lots of activity. So, join me...let's hongkie...

Above: 1. Take the trams...and trains... public transport is so scary here in Malaysia. Not only are they never on time, the stations are never equiped for the comfort of the patrons. However, in HK it's a whole different story, public transport is so convenient and extremely punctual. Love the cool advertising wraps on the trams.

Above: 2. Take a boat...if you want to "sek fong"(literally translated to say "eat wind" which means, to go on a trip). And catch the HK skyline along the banks. Best to see at night with all the bright lights and neon signages selling big brands on top of their roofs. And across the banks, visit the HK Walk of Fame.

Above: 3. Where do all these public transportation take you? Well... shopping. HK is all about walking and shopping. But if you're like me and I really don't quite get the HK style of dressing, opt for the safest shopping haven, H&M. Love it to bits even though the quality is a tad bit sucky. Then again, there are always the more popular brands like Izzue (that tried to break into the Msia market but didn't do quite as well).

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Above: 4. Go high end if you must...it's 15%-20% cheaper than Msia. And sometimes during summer sale, you can get up to 70% off.

Above: 5. Visit Stanley... which is really more popular for its arts and crafts market. However, I prefer the little cafes along the water front. A bit of a Bangsar here. Of course, if you're lucky, catch the dragon boat races. They don't always happen all year round.

Above: 6. Chillax out at one of the pubs at Lan Kwai Fong and have dinner at Yung Kee. An over priced restaurant that supposedly serves really good goose. I had a tough time chewing into it. No big fuss but well, it's a must go if you've truly visited HK. Dinner for 4 would cost a mere half a K.

Above: 7. See the HK skyline atop The Peak...tip, take a cabbie up and the tram down if the queue is too long. Worth the sight. Seeing how dense this little island is, makes you appreciate spacious o' KL.

Above: 8. Go shop hopping in Soho...love the little shops there. Every shop has it's little cute decor and unique designs. Love, love, love...it!

Above: 9. Take coffee anywhere but at Starbucks....check out their franchise of coffee cafes.


Above: 10. Catch a HK movie in the making....or rub shoulders with movie stars. We sat next to a really cute Chinese actor on the first night out at dinner. Was quite exhilarating...

Get a pair of comfy walking shoes and you'll be on your way to loosing more pounds on this trip than on any other. WALKING is on the itenerary. Other than that, it's loads of fun. Like I quote a friend "Feels like you've walked into a Cantonese drama serial".

Dinner and Supper in Hong Kong

I'm not even done yet...I haven't touched on lunch. But that's really not that necessary after we've devoured an entire pig (seeing that at every meal, there's always a pork dish) in the day and a mango tree (accumulated from all the mango desserts).

Here are some of my favourite must eats when I'm in Hong Kong. For a light dinner, you simply cannot miss out on the Wan Tan Noodles (And no not because my sur name is Tan...I just had to say it!)

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Above: Spongy Wan Tan Noodles with extremely huge (fresh) prawn Wan Tons wrapped in very thin layer of flour. It's really unlike the miserable small baby Wan Tans that we get here. And they give you 4 huge pieces there compare to 2 little ones here in Malaysia.
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Above: Steamed veggy with oyster sauce always goes best with all the meaty Wan Tans. And of course, I would have called for Hong Kong Kailan but my HK relatives prefered this.

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Above: And of course after a long day, Milk Tea served with ice (out of the drink) is best! Well, the ice is intelligently put on the outside to avoid diluting the drink! How very clever, but the bowl takes up so much space on the already table-for-one-but-it's-actually-for-four-people table.

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Supper in Hong Kong is also my favourite. Some of the "Kai Pin" (roadside stalls only open at night). And this stall only opens as and when the owner feels like cooking up his feast. Serves the most delectable Chee Cheong Fun with Peanut Sauce and Fried Loh Mai Fhan (glutinous rice) with lots of Lap Cheong. So good!

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Above: My favourite roadside store, well it actually has a proper shop, just that some of the tables are outside on the street. Only opens after 10pm.

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Above: Chee Cheong Fun with Peanut Sause and lots of Sesame Seed. It sure opens up my appetite!
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Above: Fried Loh Mai Fhan with Lao Cheong...one small serving will keep you full till the nexk morning. Oh, they also put dried shrimps in it so it's really quite tasty.

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Enough blogging on food huh? Hey, I haven't even told you what I had for lunch...well, hopefully it won't be at dinner time. Looking at all this food is making my tummy rumble.

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I might just switch to sharing some sights that I really liked in HK. Or the multi coloured trams that I chased to get a shot. Soon! :)

Breakfast in Hong Kong

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day. A lot of us sleep in and take it for granted. What more when you're in HK having to walk miles each day. Trust me, breakfast will then be the most important meal of the day.

But in HK, breakfast is such a joy cause the Tim Sum (or Yum Char as the HK people call it) is bout the best there is. Well, honestly I've tasted much better ones in Australia- Perth to be exact. But, nonetheless, original HK Tim Sum still stands at #1 for it's original taste.

Aside from the usual Tim Sum, there's the Char Chan Theng (directly translates as Tea Restaurant) which serves Yin Yong Nai (Milk Tea). I've never tasted better milk tea than the ones you get in HK. Something about their water and their tea that gives it that very distinct taste.

Anyway, here are some tantilising pics to keep you salivating.

-King's Lodge-


Above: Served in typical wooden trays in portions of three to share. Sauces and dips at the side add to the variety of taste. My favourite is the Chilli Oil they serve in such stingy portions. You have to just keep asking for it.


Above: Congee with Yau Char Kuay (fried flour pastry)


Above: Chee Cheong Fun with Char Siew (Porkie)


Above: Steamy soft Char Siew Pau (More Pork...)


Above: Hot Egg paste fillo pau.


Above: Juicy Beef Balls...


Above: Siew Mai with fresh prawn filling..

King's Lodge (Tim Sum)
Address: 1/F, CRE Building, 303 Henessy Road, WanChain, Hong Kong.
Tel: 2326 3880
Website: www.kings-lodge.com
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-Honolulu Coffee Shop-
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Above: A variety of Hong Kong style breakfast to feast on. Easy and quick to eat. Comes with lots of eggs, luncheon meat and butter.



Above: Nissin noddles with luncheon meat, egg and veggie. Very norm for breakfast.


Above: Macaroni and lucheon meat strips in soup. My favourite!
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Above: Polo Pau (Pineapple Bun for how it looks kinda like a pineapple). Another fav of mine with a generous chunck of butter in between. Can be eaten with a huge piece of luncheon meat and a fried egg sandwiched in between too.

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Honolulu Cafe

Add: G/F, 176-178, Henessy Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong.

More dessert in HK...

No way, I'm not done yet. Of course there are more dessert than just the mango stuff. Similar to our Tau Foo Fah are the steamed desserts made out of egg and milk. Don't worry, if you're not a fan of taufu, rest assure, these only look similar to our soya based version in Malaysia.
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I'm talking about the famous Yee Shun Milk Company in Hong Kong that serves, Tan Tan (Steamed Egg) and Tan Nai (Steamed Milk). Custard to be exact. Not only are they delicious, they are relatively good for health too.
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Above: The chilled room storing all the steamed desserts in ceramic bowls.
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Above: Clockwise from far left- Steamed egg, steamed milk, steamed milk with ginger juice. And that's not all. Look at the menu below...
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Above: A whole long list of steamed desserts to choose from.

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Great dessert for when you've had too much to eat as it's easy to swallow and gulp down due to it's extremely soft texture. The taste takes some getting use to but then again, most "real"healthy desserts are not for those with fussy pallettes. It's fine as long as you don't expect creme brulee.

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Again...why did I come back so soon???

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Yee Shun Milk Company

Address: G/F, 506, Lockhart Road, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong.

Tel: 2591 1837

Hong Kong Dessert

Out of the many days there in HK, we had to have the dessert at this place everyday. Yes, that's how amazingly delicious this "Healthy Dessert" place is. It's like the Mango Loh Loh that we get here at KTZ but x 1, 092, 301 better.
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Despite the slightly chilly (but nice compared to oven- bake Malaysia) weather, we had our fair share of this yummylicious Hong Kong ice kacang over and over again.
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Above: The entrance to Hui Lau Shan...a small but cozy place. When crowded, your backrest would be the person seated at the table behind you. Or you might even end up having to share your table with strangers. Very normal in HK.

Above: Saying Grace before digging into the latest dessert on the menu which was this swirl of steamed milk and red bean paste. Serve pipping hot!

Above: My absolute favourite! Mango puree and mango ice cream with pamelo and sago. This is coming from a person who doesn't like to eat mango at all. $23.

Above: Papaya with sago and coconut milk served cold. $30.

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Above: Another mango dish served with coconut on the side. Served cold. So good!!! $30.

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Sigh, now I wish I had extended my stay even longer. Yes, just to eat dessert every night. Well, if you're heading over anytime soon, there are 40 over outlets in Hong Kong for you to savour them. I frequent the one nearest to Sogo at Causeway Bay. Details as below.

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Hui Lau Shan

Address: Shop 26, G/F, Po Hon Building, 24-30 Percival Street, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong.

Tel: 2574 6866

Website: http://www.hlshk.com/

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Oh, btw if you love bitter Kwai Ling Kou, they serve really authentic ones here too! Sigh...

Marry Brown...

Marry had a little lamb...whose fleece were white as snow. I just don't get it. Did Mary marry Charlie Brown? Ermm...Perhaps, Marry Brown is just a name of some non- cartoon person and has nothing at all to do with that nursery rhyme. Or maybe, it's just the latest fast food chain in town. A town 45 minutes away from our city. In a far, far away place called the LCCT (Low Cost Carrier Terminal). Oh blimey, it ryhmes! *Glee*

Honestly, the chicken rocks! Definately juicier than KFC (so says the fast food expert, Mr. Kee Jon Tjin). Give it a go if you're flying. It's at the new wing of the renovated block. You won't miss it as it's the first shop right at the corner.

Oh please, I do not condone eating fast food. Just that I thought these pictures were just too coincidently colour coordinated not to share. Bon appetit.
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Above: And it was all Yelloww... Slurppppp....

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Above: Yellow and red...cheers! I don't think they will consider you as their mascot, Jeanine. The similarities are too far between.

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Above: Yellow, red and blue....munch, munch, munch. Superman, where are thy wings? Or cape...or...oh whatever!
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Above: Why can't fast food chains come up with better sides, like...escargot?

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Sze Yoong: "Hey, you guys look like you're doing an advertisement for Marry Brown!"
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Sea Yen, Jeanine & Jon: "Chomp, chomp, chomp...slurp, slurrrrpppp, slurrrppp, burp!"
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Sigh, I don't even know why I even bothered, seeing they didn't even give me free burgers to eat in an air conditioned car while getting paid at the same time. You're lucky Marry Brown as nothing's better than a free blog advertisement by a jakun (a nimwit who comes from a small distant village) who's amused at the combination of her friend's attires. Blessings from Charlie's angels, no? :P Harharhar...I'm lovin it!

Hong Kong- Where to Stay?

It sure seems like HK is like my backyard. Been there more times than any other country and can never seem to get bored of the fast moving pace of the city (minus the exhaust fumes, that somehow was pretty easy to get accustomed to). I LOVE HK. So, I''ll share a bit on what I've tried this 6th time around in Kungfoo land.

First off, finding a place to stay in because my fiancee would rather we not cramp into my relatives RM3mil apartment the size of his bathroom. I'm serious! But truth be told, neither did I. It wasn't that we were ungrateful for free accomodation that would have covered all our meals, but we'd rather not take up too much space. As you know, space is a great contraint in cramp-ol HK. One of those things that we Malaysian's will never get use to.

With the advancement of technology, we manage to get a pretty decent place closer to the shopping and food. Which is very important. Why else do you go to HK? Just 3 minutes down the road to Sogo and Time Square was all it took. Well, I thought it was lovely. The whole hotel decor and grace reminded me of My Fair Lady.

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Oh, we stayed at Regal Hotel @ Causeway Bay. Pictures below.

Above: The facilities at Regal Hotel. For such a small place, they sure had quite a few ammenities.


Above: Decorated with very English- like elegance with lots of gold craved furniture and water colour paintings that bring you way back to Ann of Green Gables. Certainly not for Boutique Hotel lovers who prefer their hotels sleek and minimalist. Although, I really wouldn't say this was gordy, just a tad bit of an Earl Grey compared to Tazo.


Above: Spacious. I mean, even the lift fits more than 7-8 people. That's pretty big and a non-standard for the HK liftology standards that usually squeezes in two smurfs and a mini dwarf.

Above: The room! Spacious, clean and comfy. There are all these water or oil colour paintings of the moore (like in Secret Garden) with ladies in parasols exuding a warm and romantic feel. I suppose the British influence lasted for a fair bit. If only the people spoke more English. Oh, wouldn't it be lovely!?

Above: Comfy room with lots of resting space. And did I mention, there's even a huge jaccuzi in the comfort room. Yeah! The bathroom comes with a full size shower and a bubble bathtub which we used to fill up with warm water as footbath at the end of our shopathons.

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Worth a try. Per night? Only RM600 which is quite standard and normal for HK. Give it a try. It's got one of the best locations for access to anywhere as long as you know how to take the MTR. As the English clearly puts it, "the rain in Spain stays mainly in the plane". HK weather was great! :p

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If you've got a place that you've stayed at in HK and would like to share. Do drop me a comment and I'll post it up. Btw, I'll be off to Phuket soon. Anyone got any suggestions on where to stay, what to eat, where to visit and etc, etc, etc...I'd love to hear from you. Ta! :)

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Regards,

Sze

Ernest & Sook's Wedding

First wedding with the most highschool mates reuniting! Many school friends whom I've known for upteen years surfaced and we had a swelling good time just rocking to the band and DJ at the after party. Here's to Ernie and Sookie!!! Congratulations! It was fun-tastic. Now it's my turn to plan one. I hope it''ll be filled with just as much silly dance antics we choked out that night ;)
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Above: With the bride (Sookie in Beige, Middle)

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Above: Ernie (groom) with Carmie.

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Above: Sook Sook, myself and Carmie in thematics.

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Above: The girls going way back... from SMDJ...secondary school.

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Above: With James (2nd from left) and Sarah (James' Lil Sis, far right) after eons. Happens to be cousin to the groom who planned the seating arrangements. I heard that can he hellish! Tips? Anyone?
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Above: My fiance extrodinaire...can't wait! ;)

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I definately have to get things kicking with my own one. Wish me all the best! I'll need that, plus all the wedding contacts you can offer...email me at szeyoong@szeaccessories.com with any suggestions, good pricing for photographers, hotels, gowns...yada, yada, yada...I'd LOVE to hear from you. Thanks in advance! :)

WE'RE ENGAGED! 15.03.09

SYs in love :) More to come..I'll story you later!

Ironman Langkawi 2009

Above: A permanant fixture at every Ironman race. MC for the day with more energy than a Duracel bunny. Travels the world to host most of the other world races.

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Above: Swim 3.8km, Bike 180km and Run 42.2km (full marathon).

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Another year has gone by. Time really flies. And this was the 2nd time my brother attempted the Ironman in Langkawi (while we attempted to support him). Read about the adrenalin rush in my last year's blog.

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This year we had two new friends join us (Sea Yen and Kell Jay who was my class mate but turned is kinda close to Meng cause they use to run together) in our crazy cheering which helped ease the wait time. Besides, we had the Blackberry helping us locate my brother through the online tracking device that monitors his race time when he passes through check points. Technology is way cool. We could even tell roughly where he was in a race loop or track by searching the next person we see (i.e. if that guy has gone through a certain check point/ total number of rounds and hours/ whether he was behind or in front of Meng). Such was the accuracy of the tracker.

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Above: Grabbing a hot cuppa Starbucks at 6AM in the morning. Meng came out of the starting point to greet us before he got into the water for a morning swim.

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Above: *Guilt* Erm...shoul I even be eatting this while Meng's suffering in the blistering heat? Well, just Kell Jay grabbing a bite in betweem the check points to fuel his support for the day.
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Above: Meng's groupies! Super supporters with our florescent bright green and orange banners.
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Above: Meng on his bike leg. His favourite part of the race and his strongest forte. Which brings me back to a childhood memory of him getting his fingers stuck in between the chains of a bike and the spokes that hold the chain. He was then a 8 year old bicycle mechanic fixing his BMX.
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Above: The last few laps are probably the more crucial laps. That's when you start to really feel the fatique and pain. Encouragement is probably the most needed during this duration.

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Above: One amazing, determined and willfull, Iron-Meng. After months of training till after mid night during working days (because people in the advertising industry are crazy, have no life and work their juniors to death!) or waking up at yawn....I mean dawn, just to get in a few hours of training.
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Above: A very inspired Malaysian fan. Malaysia truly Boleh!

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ABove: With Carmen Leong (Center), No.1 Malaysian Women's Ironman. Represented Malaysia in Hawaii last year and will be representing again this year! We're so proud of you Ms. Leong. Btw, we've know her since we were babies cause she's been our nurse at the family doctors like forever. She's probably seen Meng in his dypers before and is now his training "kaki".

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So you've seen the "during". Let's go back a little to the "before". All you see here is what happened on that day. Most people get really inspired (like my BF and then he goes and tells the whole world he will do an Ironman in 10 years time but doesn't even start by jumping into his condo's pool). But other's just sit in awe at the sidelines (like me- I don't think it's my kinda thing). But really, it's so much hardwork.

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Meng sacrificed so much during this whole year of preparing for this race. He hardly went out with friends who were partying and intoxicating themselves. Instead he totally abstained from alcoholic beverages. He slept at the hours school going children retreat grudgingly to bed. He woke up earlier than the roosters. And he ate like a monk. Steam or boiled. No fried stuff (no nasi lemak or char kuey teow). Lots of fruits. Lots of health drinks....and the list goes on and on. I can't even beging to list down the sacrifices and the extend that he had to care for his health. It really puts a lot of us unhealthy lot to shame. Or we can see it as motivation ;)

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Nonetheless, I will only stick to my Ironman blogging for now...and my occasional roti canai.

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Places to Visit in Langkawi:- Lots...but let me find some time in the later blogs to tell you about them.

Kuching 2009

Went for a company trip to Kuching (East Malaysia, Sarawak) last week and thought it was going to be all work and no play. But found a little joint hidden in the quiet town. A rare find but a real gem. Totally atmospheric and cozy. Has great food to boast and a really cute name to accompany it (I think the owner was a bit drunk when he decided to call it Bla Bla Bla). Worth the visit if you're ever in that vicinity.

Above: Bla Bla Bla's very inviting entrance.

Above: A close up of the old wooden shelves on the right of the entrance with classic eveyday necessities stored for a rainy day.

Above: On the left, a cozy corner with tatami seating to lazily lounge on.

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Above: As you walk in, decor of sorts are hung around to add to the homey ambience. A really old looking antique bicycle hangs from the beams of the ceiling.

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Above: Step on cement slabs while passing two steams with koi fishes through two hallways. Note the eggs and watermelon used as decor.

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Above: And a hallway of sepia moments all neatly lined up with nostalgic historical past and present tales of the town.

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Above: The second "stream" before reaching the dining area. What a "long-house".

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Above: A little court yard behind with lots of greens, woody furniture and bamboo blinds. If it wasn't raining, the ceiling would be remove to reveal the natural sparkles of the stars would make an even more romantic dinner.

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Above: Huge portion of food that's enough for a share of 4 people. My colleague Alex stuffed to the brim.

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Besides, this cutesy little find, there's also The (Living) Room and Junk which are just a few doors away. They are of the same concept and even owned by the same people. Apparently, the same food's catered over to them to. Just me sharing my nice little findings ;) That's all for my Borneo Ink-ing.

Movie World-

A day at the theater. Real sites, sounds and sight! We were at "THE" movies. I suppose it was more fun when I was a kid. Revisiting movie world was so-so. It was not only one of the hotest day of the week. But I got to see my super heroes ;P went on lots of crazy rides. I remembered the "Lethal Weapon"ride forever and always thought it was my favourtie ride when I was a kid. so revisiting it was quite cool. I actually had the nerves and felt a tiny wee bit queasy after it...spining head..rolling tummy and all. But I can safely say, I don't feel quite that old (yet) after going for the Batman plunge! It sure takes guts!


Above: Swweeet escape!


Above: Sooby Doooo...Where are you?


Above: A picture speaks a thousand words...in this case, that little gurl at the side of the frame spoiled it! Darn!



Above: That's where I left my magic wand!


Above: Hot guys with cool cars... uh huh! My typa-thang!


Above: Hot chicks in tight leather suits? Any takers?


ABove: Well...only if you can by-pass this guy!

Above: Grrr....who's your super hero? Huh?

One of those Brisbane places you've just got to go once in your life! Movie World, Water World...all the worlds combine, you'll get a pretty fun time down under.

Brisbane- Kagaroo Zoo

Above: Dude! Wash your hands before you eat! That's disgusting. Eww...


Above: Lone Pine Sanctuary, only 6472km away. So near! It's on the same planet!

Who says that Brisbane is boring? I happen to think otherwise. Maybe cause I'm old at heart...but other than the obvious, I enjoy the outdoors and the wild life. First day at Brisbane was at a koala santuary...well it was more like a kangaroo, sheep, emu, parakeet... santuary. With all of Australia's proud soft toy mascots in real life size animal-land. Except that they are all running wild and definately not behind bars.


Above: Oh I forgot...they all get spoon fed!


Above: Simon says, "lift your hind leg up!"

Above: Simon says, "hop like a kagawoo!" :P

Above: Now squat like a kagaroo?

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Above: Mummy, can I bring that cute koala home?


Above: Xena! Queen of the jungle!

ABove: And big bird from Sesame Street. Actually it's an emu. No, not elmo.

Con- grads!

Dad teared! Sorry for spilling on you but you did. And I guess that's one of those definining moments in a father's life- to see both his children get a proper education and graduate. Next will come the aisle and the wedding bells. I can hardly hear those, so for now, this would be it.

Such are the dreams of our parents. These are what their dreams are made of. What are we if not for their ambitions and hopes? Afterall who we become really is a show of the people behind us. All thanks to mum and dad for teaching us how to firstly walk and now run.

So to Meng, first and Ironman then a graduate. Three cheers! Hip Hip Hooray! And in typical Ausie style, "for he's a jolly good fellow!"


Above: Proud daddy with his two rascals.


Above: Whose more of a rascal? Need I say? A picture speaks a thousand words.


Above: The head of all rascals... (On the left).



Above: One very happy sister...finally! Oh bro!

More Mors

Best thing about travelling is finding all these little nick nacks that makes me miss the place that I visited. Having worked in the beauty line, I tend to check out the beauty counters a lot and read lots of magazines and MOR Cosmetics was being featured quite a bit. They were on top of my Need-To-Own-For-The-Sake-Of-It list (which is a horrible excuse so I ended up getting it for a good friend and my mum so that I wouldn't feel guilty as the list was still empty). Besides, I'm overloaded with cosmetics already.

So, why Mor? Well, I really do love the packaging and the wrapping more than the content of the toiletries. So antique, so old school...so classic! Check out the website and the range of items they have. I'd collect them just for novelty but they are a tad pricey. However, they are quite good as gifts. Some of the pieces I absolutely fell Mor- in- love with are:-

Above: Lipgloss in British antique tin cans in an array of colours (turquoise, baby blue, peach, black, apple green...ect) and flavours. Yummylicious.

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Above: Sweet smelling body butter in the signature gift wrapper, ribbon and wax seal.

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Above: Bath Soaps alike the candles wrapped in the most interesting gift wrappers, ribbons and even sealed with candle wax.

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Above: Lovely smelling candles in opulant casing.

I want MOR, MOR, MORE!

Holidays...

... are almost over. Well, I've actually been on a long "holiday"since I quit my previous job and ventured into the accessories line (which was honestly a hobby that blew outta proportion and turned into a business). BUT by the end of this week...I''m actually going back into the real dog-eat-dog world of commercialism to work my butt off (literally and figuratively speaking).

...is so fun, it makes your HEARTBEAT! The best part about this year was of course the Christmas play at church which was a quilt of different cultures pieced together to form a masterpiece. Awesome Christmas musical that I was so priviledge to be apart of that made so much sense in this times of uncertainties in our world.

...make you spend too much, over eat and tired! In the past couple of weeks, I had the priviledge of being at my brother's convocation in Brisbane and visiting family in Singapore. Not the first time there and definately not the last. Despite the currency plundgering to a all time low, things were still pretty pricey in both countries. Malaysia is truly a great shopping haven. Updates on it if I can handle my work schedule and plonk blogging into my me-me-me "ti-me".

...brings the family together. Spent so much time with parents and relatives (most of them not mine). This could be a good case as good families rub off on you and are quite the examples to use in the future ;)

...make you reflect. On everything that has happened this year (which leads to you reminiscing and sometimes digging up the past). Makes you realise that everything in the past is over and to really look ahead and get a move on. You really got to move it, move it!

...SHOULD NEVER END! But when it does, let's just say....I anxiously wait for the weekend when I can shout out aloud "TGIF"!!! :) Ok, so this is hardly a synopsis for my MIA inputs these few months but this will do for now, ok? Hear from you soon!

HAPPY NEW YEAR.
HELLO 2009!

Christmas Concert @ Dream Center

Above: The musical starts of with Sarah, who coudn't stand how Christmas had began to feel so commercialised and wanted to get away from it all. So she travels...

Above: to China...but realises that the Chinese celebrate it too...Opening act with Elliotte on the Chinese flower drums.

Above: ...to India...another country growing in the number of people celebrating Christmas.

Above: ...to Africa...who celebrates Christmas with a song fit for the coming of the king...

Above: ...to Betheleham... in the town where baby Jesus was born...

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Above: ....to japan... for a very Kawaii Christmas.

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Above: ...to Spain...to watch the very bold Flemenco in their celebration...

Above: ...to Brazil...to join in the fun at the market place doing the Calypso.

Above: ...and finally back to our homeland...Malaysia.

Above: ...Although Sarah's journey has brought her around the world, it ended up back to the begining. Here a tune about what Christmas really is belts out melodiously through Joanna- a girl she meets at the park.

Above: Snap shots of the Christmas Play- Heartbeat.

Above: 1st Page- Article on heatbeat in DUMC's Floogates magazine. ..

Above: Second Page- Article on Heatbeat in DUMC's Floodgates Magazine.

Above: Invitation mailer to the Christmas concert.

Above: Map to DUMC Dream Centre.

Do come for this Christmas Production that my church has been working really hard at organising. Join us as we bring you to different parts of the world to experience the sights, sounds and songs of different people groups and races. And as you dance to the rythms of the world, I'm sure that you'll find the true heartbeat of Christmas.

Date: 5th (Friday), 6th (Sat) & 7th (Sun) of December

Time: 8:30pm-10:00pm

Venue: DUMC Dream Center, No 2, Jalan 13/1, Section 13, 46200 Petaling Jaya.

*Near Colgate. It's the old Singer factory.

See you there! Find out more on http://www.dumc.com.my/ or call 03- 7958 7388 for more information. Merry Christmas!

I'm sick of being sick...

Well, after reading Jodi Picoult's "My Sister's Keeper", my "sick" is nothing compared to what some other people go through. However, I've been down with this darn flu so so long that it literally makes me feel sick of being sick...if you know what I mean.

Sorethroat, flu, runny nose, block nose, cough, cough, cough...and sneeze, sneeze and yuk, yuk yuk!

Anyway, sorry no updates of late. Been really (honestly) busy with real life. So cyber has to take a back seat for the moment. I haven't totally abandoned this blog or www.szeaccessories.blogspot.com so please go check it out. There are a few new pieces, some collaboration and constant updates. But I must say that I haven't had the time to keep the ball rolling. Soon...

Till then, don't be a stranger- just yet ;) I've got lots going on right now on my plate, which also means that I should have more to write about but just got to find the TIME.

Ta for now. See ya soon!

I'm Back!

Been missing for a while....after the play at church, I started work i.m.m.e.d.i.a.t.e.l.y (like the day after and haven't stopped since)....

So, it's been a while cause works been taking up most of my time...yeah, been back at the old office for a while doing the same ol same ol...so, I'll update you as soon as I get a breather. I was meaning to share abit on the play and how it's changed my life but life's just taken the subway down a very hectic route at the moment. So...

...just wait up...ok? Till then...please go catch Mama Mia! It's the best movie I've watched since...Titanic! (Justtt kidding...about the Titanic part).

Whose Dreams?

Chasing rainbows end,
A golden pot burried in the sand,
Working seven days with no end,
So helpless in this misery land.

Too little time, two little hands.
Will I ever be a better men?
Toiling all day, with no meaning to them,
I feel torn between two time span.

It's tough to be a better person in your grand plan,
Constantly told that I'm not who I am,
I'm definately not my shepards lamb,
Too little time, two little hands.

I've broken dreams and a shattered life,
My deepest, darkest fear surfice,
I dread an unknown end of no tomorrows,
Crippled tears are full of sorrow.

Just too little time, just two little hands,
Would you Lord please help me stand?
Until then, I'm unable to heed or follow,
But leave your footprints in the sand.

I'll remember then that you're on my side,
Cause you are my eternal guiding friend,
No matter what I am, who I am or where I am,
I'll be just who you want me to be,
With my time and both my hands.

So many times in life, we feel we don't live up to our potential. We are stuck in every day jobs that bring us no where. Come, rest, take some time of to watch Whose Dream. A play put up by DUMC (Damansara Utama Methodist Church), be there, be touched and be transformed.

Details in the blog below.

Whose Dream?

Above: Scene one- Snap shot of the play's opening scene with Susan talking to Ah Kiang about his dreams.

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DUMC brings to you a theatrical play in August. Tickets (only RM5.00) are available at the church. Bring your friends, along ok? I'll be there ;)

Synopsis:- The year is 1985. Mr and Mrs Khoo run a successful prawn mee stall in Kepong. They have only one son, Ah Kiang, in whom they put all their hopes. Mr Khoo has put together the ‘perfect’ plan for Ah Kiang to study accounting in Australia. Ah Kiang’s passion, however, is in something completely different and he is determined to pursue it. ‘Whose Dream?’ is a story of clashes of hopes, dreams, family love, gratitude and most importantly, having one’s heart in the right place.

Date & Time:-
1 August 2008 (Friday) 8:30 - 10:00 pm
2 August 2008 (Saturday) 8:30 - 10:00 pm
3 August 2008 (Sunday) 8:30 - 10:00 pm

Location:- Dream Centre, Damansara Utama Methodist Church.

Above: Location map to DUMC.

One Life...Make It Count!

Above: One Life...Do Something!

ONE LIFE is here in Malaysia! After travelling around the world (USA, Canada, Korea, Japan, Australia, New Zealand and Singapore) to bring light unto the plights of AIDS victims, One Life is finally here in Damansara Utama Methodist Church. And it's been going of for the whole week. They will still be on tomorrow and on Sunday as well so please try and make your way over.

Why? Cause I'm sure, just like me, majority of us urban folks are ignorant about AIDS. We know it's an incurable disease and that many people suffer from it, it's not transmitted through kissing and that it's "spreadable" through the sharing of needles from a HIV positive person to healthy person. But what else? Do you know of the sufferings of people afflicted with it? The pain and anguish they go through? The loneliness and despair? I don't...do you?

That's why I'm heading over tomorrow to find out for myself. One Life takes you through an exhibition maze of re-enected scenes of places and lets you listen to the stories of REAL people (through a headset that's provided) suffering from AIDS. Too much for a weekend? Well, you'll probably be moved by this moving and unforgettable experience and maybe it will make you realise just how fortunate you are.

Life's not about the latest LV handbags on fashion catwalks, sometimes, we need to removed our stilettos and step into the reality of our world. We need to see, hear and experience the tragedy and triump lived out by real children affected by HIV/AIDS and child trafficking. Need I say more?

ADMISSION IS FREE!!!
Date: 8-13 July 2008
Time: 10am-7pm
Venue: Dream Centre, DUMC, 2 Jalan 13/1, Section 13, 46200 Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia. (Park at Jaya 33)
Website: http://www.worldvision.com.my/

Above: Map to DUMC, Damansara Utama Methodist Church.