viva

my viva to present my findings will be held in 13 hours' time. slides, ready. notes, ready.. mental health...not ready
i have a lot to blog about..but probably not tonight, as i am dead tired.
well, wish me luck
ciao
je t'aime
ben
bon le viva

eyes on me..

this video is a must watch. it's the thrid single from the album taking chances. although it has yet to reach our shores, just enjoy this performance first..now, i just can't wait for the mv.



i must say, the arrangement for this song during the concert was amazing...

KL trip, part 3

here are some shots from the gardens, the latest posh hotel in town. strategically lovated in midvalley, and about 30 minutes from the airport. being the new kid in town, only 3 levels of rooms are open (and the coffee house), but they managed to host the dinner for MIFA (Malaysian International Fashion Alliance)..so, here goes the posh kid..

view from the parlour. the room is spacious (and new). i could still smell the furniture...


view from the end of the room to the other end. told u it was spacious


here's the lovely bathroom.. i could imagine having one of this in my dream home..


view from the bathroom all the way to the other end of the room. note the wardrobe to the left..


my favourite thing from the whole stay....the overhead shower. it was such a relaxing experience just standing under the shower!! of couse, the tub was also just as nice..but the shower is really something different!!

well, so here's one of the many good things when i travel with my mum.. i get to stay in posh, new hotels without having to pay for a single cent. trust me, the experience was really nice..

KL trip, part 2

so, here's what happened on the first day of my trip to KL. we were bored, hence we headed up to genting for a day trip.


no trip to genting will be complete without the skyway. it's amazing that a man could actually envision such great technology, even before the 'amazing' technological age..


genting is famous for it's theme park. this is the outdoor theme park. we didn't bother going there for a few reasons..besides, i was there 3 years ago. and did the solero shot thing...


the indoor theme park. wasn't really interested in the rides. was more excited with the casino (my first time there). well, i would say, the food there is quite nice.


something that really caught my attention..the carlo rino showcase. it was so beautifully set up that i just couldn't resist taking a picture of it.

anyway, it was a fruitful day trip (earned some shopping money)..probably i'll snap more pix next time...

earth, earth, i love you...

argh.. i wanted to upload more pictures for my KL trip.. guess that'll just have to wait. probably it's a sign telling me to update u readers with my pathetic life..

firstly, there is nothing harder to do than to restrict yourself from doing the thing that u love. remember me saying that i shall stop singing.. well, it's the third day now. initially, i have to constantly bite my lower lip just to prevent the sound from coming out.. then, i resorted to slapping. but nothing is more painful than the soul itself. especially when the song happens to be your favourite, and u have to remind yourself not to sing a single not. there were times when i slipped (and slapped).. but i shall continue!!

it's earth day today. what have you done? admittedly, i didn't do much. apart from the usual recycling that we do (sorting out newspaper), there is not much 'environment conciousness' in my house. (try telling a 74 year old lady what earth day is!!). but i tried. my house is very dark now... (turned off the lights to save energy), and i promised not to turn on the air conditioner tonight...so, i guess that little may help??

so, i've registered for balance training. soon, i'll be teaching balance back in penang (i hope). in the mean time, mich is also trying to promote me as a yoga master. happy in a way, but at the same time, i still doubt my capability. probably i should start a class and get the hang of it.. probably i'll do it in the botanical gardens this weekend.

i finally found caterpillars on my lime plant. am so happy with that.. finally, my purpose of planting the lime plant has been fulfilled. i just can't wait for the papillionide to develop. will it be just the common lime?? or another clubtail? only time will tell..

just finished the only paper i have to sit for today. relatively ok, not too simple, not too hard either. viva is next week. i don't even know how to prepare.. what slides to prepare...argh. everyone seems to have faith in me.. and telling me how happy and radiant i look... am i??

well, i guess enough for the time being.. enjoy the day.. and probably drop me a line if u have done anything for earth day..

ciao
je t'aime, le monde
ben

a short story....

*taking a break off the usual posting*

here's a short story about a boy named christopher. christopher, like any other boys in the neighbourhood, love the simple things in life..food, dance, playing, girls..


however, christopher also have another infatuation.....clean toilets. you see, he just loves to see the lovely porcelain bowl, the nice tiles, and the luxurious basins..


see, he enjoys using the toilet...and he's proud to share his 'love interest' with his friends..


oh, btw.. christopher also loves the toilet for the large mirrors they have. he admires beauty (especially his own)..hence, the larger, the better..


but all in all, he's just one simple boy, with simple pleasures in life.

chris, if u are reading this, don't kill me ya.. just needed some fun in the blog

KL trip, part 1

here's the first bit on my recent KL trip. as it was a relaxing trip, there was nothing much to do except to eat and eat. coupled with my mum, eating is inevitable. therefore, i decided to capture the memories of some of the food that was eaten in KL..


this was my 'sizzling pork chop' platter in genting. i must say, it was really delicious, considering the fact that it's a hainanese outlet.


this was the 'hainanese chicken chop' that mum had. the sauce is just as good...


the second night in the hotel, we were too tired to go out for food, hence, we headed over to midvalley to raid the stores for food. first item, big apple donughts.. slightly overrated (we have missy's here), but just as sinful


next, tai tong eggtarts. not as good as those i get from penang..but still, good for supper, breakfast and lunch...haha


next, sushi from jusco. we love japanese, so it's inevitable that we should raid jusco for the sushi, and also some sashimi and the roasted chicken


cheesecake...for dessert. u can actually see the sashimi slightly above the cheesecake. haha.


this was my bbq chicken from outback, a store just outside lot 10. very succulent chicken.. and lovely vege!!


leroy's chicken fingers, also from outback.

i'd forgotten to bring my camera when i had tgif, so no pix from there. also forgotten when i went out with my cousin for dinner in bangsar. so, no pix from the italian shop there. as you can see, i kinda had loads to eat.. so, it's no wonder that i have put on some pounds..haha

celine dion concert..

ok, so i guess i weren't doing any justice considering that i didn't put up any pictures for the concert.. so, here goes. mind you, they were taken from afar, so pls forgive the poor quality..


here's the view of the stage, before it was dark. the sunset was so amazing that day that i couldn't resist taking a few more pix (for private collection)


you better keep your eyes on me...


first appearance on a malaysian stage..celine dion!! pity that i could only snap from the lcd screen, cos she's just too small for my view.


celine and her multi-talented violinist..for 'to love you more'.


ok, this was from the encore..remember me telling you how small she looked from my view. haha

even though the pictures may only capture that much, the memories from the concert is still fresh in my head. i dare say that it's one of the best..i only wished that the government was more lax, and perhaps we could see her performing in the golden dress..

spring pictures

well, spring was certainly in the air when i was taking those picture. those faux sakura outside looked so lovely in bloom, and the most beautiful thing was that it carpeted the whole floor..
i have always love spring..especially when the flowers are in bloom. have u seen, or ride across a shower of yellow 'snow'? i have, and it feels beautiful. those angsana blooms could really cover the floor. pity, i don't have any pictures for that..
as spring is slowly bidding us adieu, the heat is also getting unbearable. probably that explains my erratic behaviour for the past few days..
better start preparing for beltane..only 2 weeks away!!

apology

i am so sorry for that i broke the cardinal rule while recording the videos during the concert. i was so elated that i had sang along to most of the songs. i kinda forgotten that the cameraman is suppose to remain silent throughout everything..
i am sorry again.
don't worry, i promise that this will not happen again as i wouldn't be attending any concert anytime soon, and i kinda promised myself never to sing again. not even in the car. not even in the shower. let's see how long can this go..
as for the mean time, guess i'll be happy if u guys could suggest some punishment that i can impose on myself if i sing again...

ben

screwed up experiment...

i guess perhaps that's the best thing to describe what i am. probably when the higher powers decided to created me, the weren't sure of what to do, hence they screwed up. or perhaps this is the punishment for an inter-racial marriage (no offence to my parents). but this much i can say, i am a screw up..

here are a few points on why i would say so.. (was thinking of this while i was riding home from gym..hehe)
1. well, i love music. i love to sing. i can still carry a tune..but the bad part, i don't have a voice to sing. i don't have an original voice, always stuck in falsetto, and sounds aweful. wonder what was the higher power thinking when it was 'creating' my voice box
2. besides singing, i love to dance also. i was interested in classical dance, and now, some contemporary dance.. however, this passion have to take a backseat during high school, when i thought that i had two left feet. but being back in the picture is not too good either. i was told that i don't convey the passion and the energy in my dance...now, o' higher power..is this any better than having two left feet??
3. the higher powers decided to give me intelligence. i strived hard and made it to the ivory towers..but now, i don't have a job. i'm to fend for myself with nothing in hand.. is this for your enjoyment??
4. i must say, i have a rather good eye for fashion. in fact, i could tell out fabrics, match colours and patterns...but the higher powers decided not to give me the talent in drawing..
5. long ago, a little boy had the dream of being a model...but he wasn't model behaviour. hence, he learned the catwalk, developed a keen sense of fashion, and changed his image...now, time passed. the little boy changed..but guess the higher powers had the upper hand as they didn't wanna hand him charisma and stage presence...
6. then, the higher powers also decided to ruin the little boy's life by restricting his heart. now, the grown boy couldn't find his heart, and couldn't afford to love or shower anyone with affection....besides, the higher power also decided that the little boy doesn't deserve to be loved..haha

well, this was all i could think off in 20 minutes from the gym. when i reached home, i was wondering..am i lucky? or perhaps the guy with down syndrome is happier than i am.. perhaps he's better, as he's void of stress and not bugged down with all the emotional baggage....

then it came to mind.. will i be better off if i continue with what i am doing? or perhaps i should change radically. actually, the thought of being a monk and renouncing the world have been playing in my head for quite a while. there's a part in me that says that there is nothing left here for me, and i should just go be a monk... but there's also this part of me that is not ready and is still attached to worldly affairs..

guess i should enhance my cultivation, and perhaps one day, i'll take the road less travelled.

until then, perhaps i'll share some good news.. i am going for the body balance training next month. the chance is finally here..and i am seizing the moment. however, i must add, this decision didn't come easily. a few days ago, i was so tempted to just forget about going for any training, or having associating myself with anything to do with yoga, balance, or jam...but i guess the higher powers decided otherwise again...haih

is this some sort of sick joke? to screw up my life? or am i just another screwed experiment in the faulty lab of yours??? perhaps i'll be better off as a butterfly.. or heck, being my pet dog is even better than being me...

well, sorry for the emo post after all the joyous moment from the concert. perhaps all the euphoria have finally disappeared and now, it's back to the relative reality of mine...

ciao
je t'aime (again, seriously?? i have no faculty to love...)
ben

the concert...part 3

i guess this is the final instalment to the celine dion taking chances world tour in kuala lumpur. it was probably the best experience for me, and perhaps the best give for me for turning 23..



my heart will go on. the encore for the night. also the only costume change for the night. she looks better in this compared to the shining piece and the bolero. u'll probably hear me, or the crowd singing too, but just ignore it and soak up the feeling of seeing her sing live..



a little from the start of the concert, where she performs i drove all night. sorry if i was jerking and shaking, as i was excited then...

guess that's all folks. until the next concert. seriously, the dream come true will be watching her in manchester on the 3rd of may, seated in the front row...that will be perfect (for personal reasons). but then, i am content with this.

the concert...part 2

some of you may have asked this: what were the songs that she sang last night??
well, just to let u guys know, she sang 22 songs, and it was divided into several sections. here's the complete song listing for the concert:

section 1: Rock
1. I Drove All Night
2. Power of Love
3. Taking Chances
4. It's All Coming Back To Me
5. Because You Love Me
6. To Love You More

section 2: Passion
prelude: New Mego's Flamenco
7. Eyes on Me
8. All By Myself

section 3: Fashionista
9. I'm Alive
10. Shadow of Love
11. I'm Your Angel (duet with Barney Valsaint)
12. Alone
13. Pour Que Tu M'aime Encore
14. Think Twice
15. My Love

section 4: Tribute to Queen
16. We Will Rock You
17. The Show Must Go On

section 5: Soul
prelude: I Feel Good (Barney Valsaint)
18. It's a Man's World
19. That's Just The Woman In Me
20. Love Can Move Mountains
21. River Deep, Mountain High

Encore:
My Heart Will Go On

there, that's the full listing for the night. there's a video screened prior to every section, and as usual, i loved the one she did for the fashionista section. it showed her in the best side, and as a very good role model too.
as for the songs, i am most comfortable also with the fashionista segment. but, i must add, i love all the songs that she sang. come on, she got the crowd on their feet for songs like We Will Rock You, and River Deep, Mountain High.
i'm amazed that 'the star' reported there no one sang along to her song. perhaps the reporter was deafen by the speakers.. i could assure you that almost the whole stadium was singing along to her songs. it was even more apparent during the encore, when the arrangement for My Heart Will Go On was changed a little.
and my favourite song for the whole night..........Eyes On Me!!! yes. the arrangement was perfect, the dance and dancers were perfect.. and her voice..ah. so beautiful

as a treat, and to share my happiness, here are two videos, by me..haha
mind you, those are my videos ya!!!

Alone. Specially dedicated to Alan, for loving this song so much. sorry if i missed the start!! i was too elated to record it properly. haha.


My Love. As with the one in South Korea when she first performed this single, she was on her knees. again, my apologies for missing the first part. i was elated

in case you guys really wanna see the full clips, just youtube it. there are plenty. but these two are recorded from me..haha

rasa sayang...

the concert...part 1

i seriously don't know where to start. probably by know, most of you would have heard from me that i am very very excited, very very happy, and will probably stay this way for the next few days. all the memories, and the moments of magic that she casted in that 2 hours.. it was priceless.

i have some photos, and a couple of videos, but i haven't got the chance to post it up here yet. i will try to get it done as soon as possible.

so, let's see. well, i reached there kinda late. bout 5.30. gates only opened at 6.30. apparently, some have been queueing since 1 (that's the second person in line). but i was lucky as the line grew longer and longer and longer. going in wasn't much hassle.. anyway, i guess the euphoria seeped into me earlier than thought as i already went on a shopping spree before going to the concert. the guards were kinda surprised that i had so many bags..but then again, it was all clothes (and my camera, in a ploy to sneak it in..just in case). but they didn't bother checking my bags. so, got through.

the moment we were in, we decided to look for seats. it was the upper deck that we initially settled upon. but i wasn't pleased, and i saw that the lower deck was rather empty. so, i kinda grumbled and fussed and finally found out that the lower deck was also available for me.. so, i hastened to get a good seat, with a good vantage point. i have to say, i was seated as close as those paying rm488, and my seat was elevated too..haha.

waited for time to pass.. some were seen eating, some were seen taking pictures, and some, like me, decided to catch up on the news. as time passed, fans were pouring in.. ppl are getting restless.. and i was wondering what she's doing backstage.. probably putting on her make up?? or eating her pasta?? or probably playing with her kid..haha. silly thoughts. then, at about 7.30, the fans were so bored that they decided to form the mexican wave thing....soon, everyone was enjoying the mexican wave thing (me included..although i have sat out like 4 out of 10).

finally, after all the waves, the chants, the cheers...royalty arrived. before that, i was also busy celeb watching. saw harith iskandar..and someone which resembles elaine daly. back to the story.. royalty arrived. i spotted tun mahatir the moment he stepped in. then the YDPA and his wive.. then, lights out, and the show started, at 8.50.

clips of her was shown on the screen.. featuring her in various camera shootings, some poses and the such.. then, the diva came on stage. her presence sent the crowd crazy. screams (shrieks, for my part)and cheers echoed the stadium as her voice filled the air. she started the show with i drove all night (not a new day)..and the show went on. after two songs, she addressed the crowd, starting with a terima kasih, and apa khabar...then she thanked the royals for gracing the event.. and also thanked the weather (and the moon)..haha. then, she launched into 'taking chances'..

the show went on for a couple of songs more when she took a break. we were then entertained by her dancers, performing the tango. the tango was perfect, breath-taking and alluring and apt for the next song..eyes on me. gosh...i loved that song to bits.. and the arrangement was changed to suit the theme..

a couple more songs, including the likes of to love you more, it's all coming back to me now/because you love me (medley), alone, pour que tu m'aimes encore, my love,i'm your angle, shadow of love etc. a couple of intervals...she finally went into the climax, with the tribute to queen. the fans (me included) were singing, dancing and tapping to all the songs..performed with full energy, even though you can see her suffering from the recent illness. the crowd went high with 'we will rock you', and stayed on the enjoy the ever-apt 'the show must go on'. we were then treated with a james brown song (i feel good), and an x'tina (it's a man's world), before resuming to her power hits.

the show ended with 'river deep, mountain high'. by that time, everyone in the crowd was so high. you can actually see her vocal cords moving, and clearly, she's putting her best to the performance. leaving after the song, the crowd chanted for an encore, and the lovely diva graced us with a costume change, and performing the song that she'll forever be remembered for..'my heart will go on'. it was rendered so beautifully live that i just couldn't contain the excitement and euphoria in me. same goes to her fans.. everyone was singing to that song..and finally the curtain call.

all in all, it was the best performance that i have seen from a true diva. although 2hours may seem a little short, it was memorable. we could clearly see that she placed a lot of effort to make the show a success. people were seem leaving overwhelmed. awed. i left feeling inspired, and i also kinda had an enlightening moment. i could feel her songs, talking to my soul. her voice just connects to my heart and my soul, and finally showing me the right direction.

i know that it may sound a little OTT, but there is nothing better than having a diva connect to your soul. as readers may have noticed, i was feeling a little slumped over the past couple of weeks. but her show have lifted my spirits again, making me believe in the person in me again

i couldn't thank her enough for being the inspiration to my life.. crazy as it may sound, i think she's my role model. i may not be in her footsteps, but seeing her performing life, with all the wonderful songs, i think i may end up being a better person. and clearly, if i were to leave the world today, i will have no regrets in my life...

celine dion, you are the best!!

je t'aime
ben

p.s. stay tuned for more updates, videos and pix from the concert.
as for now, i'll just embed this video, taken from derick716.

stole this from alan..hehe

What Ben Means

You are full of energy. You are spirited and boisterous. You are bold and daring. You are willing to do some pretty outrageous things. Your high energy sometimes gets you in trouble. You can have a pretty bad temper at times. You are friendly, charming, and warm. You get along with almost everyone. You work hard not to rock the boat. Your easy going attitude brings people together. At times, you can be a little flaky and irresponsible. But for the important things, you pull it together. You are very intuitive and wise. You understand the world better than most people. You also have a very active imagination. You often get carried away with your thoughts. You are prone to a little paranoia and jealousy. You sometimes go overboard in interpreting signals.

What's Your Name's Hidden Meaning?

2 more days...

technically, it's actually one more day. but then again, my time zone is always out, so i guess u can say that it's two more nights. i just can't wait to be in that seat, watching celine belt out all her songs. i know that the night may be short when you are enjoying it.. but i hope that the memories last forever.

ok, to clear some things.. firstly, i will like to thank my diaper buddy aka kawan lampin aka mich aka precious princess for recording the videos during the launch of body jam. i appreciate the sacrifice she had to make (running away from her mum) to come support me.. so, here's a big THANK YOU, for doing all this.

as i am leaving again tomorrow, guess my blog will be on hold until my return. let's just hope that i'll return a wiser and happier person.

ciao
je t'aime
ben

home again

so, i am back in penang again. for two days, before i head down to KL again to catch celine dion's concert. i know i've said this many many times, but i just can't wait to be there, watching her life. it's a dream come true, and is the best present the world will give me..

will try to upload some pictures from the trip.. but i guess i'll only update it after i return from the concert. hopefully, i'll be able to grab a few shots of celine dion in action. i know i've heard of her lip-synching, and all, but we all have to admit, she's the best performer for all time. come on, who can carry such beautiful notes after all these years?

anyway, met reshmonu yesterday,right after leaving starbucks in the gardens. also met some models, some datins and some celebrities (tiara) in the lobby while i was headed out for dinner. it was MIFA, hence the large gathering. i just can't help but to envy them.. anyway, the funniest thing happened. i was walking my own imaginary catwalk in the hotel and the mall. i didn't really notice it, until mum pointed out that why is my walking so akin to a ladies. i had to cover up with a quick excuse.. but i think deep down, i just couldn't give up longing to be famous one day. it did occur to me that perhaps, there'll be talent scouts standing nearby.. but perhaps luck doesn't favour me.. and perhaps, i'm just not meant to be in the limelight.

anyway, i guess the gender confusion didn't really stop, even in KL. come on, in the land of the crowded, there are so many ppl like me.. my niece and nephews that met me yesterday was wondering what the heck am i (they didn't ask, but i could sense). but what really irritated me was that the taxi driver that drove me to the airport today actually had the guts to ask me what was my gender. apparently, he confused me with a lady.

sometimes, i just can't help it. i know that the long mane worsen the problem, but what they don't see is that if i don't treasure and play with my hair now, there'll be no more hair to play with in a couple of years time. it's genetical, and i can't avoid it (i can only not pass it on). i know that my movements are rather soft, flowy and lanky.. but it's not that i didn't try to be manly. i guess i never really changed after all.

i remembered the logic when i first started going to the gym. i told myself that i must lose weight, and at the same time tone up to become more manly. but i guess i failed. terribly...

one thing, it's not that i am not comfortable being in my own skin. ok, there are certain parts that i really don't like, but then, i've learned to accept the little that i am. but why is everyone around me judging me then.. i remembered telling myself, if anyone ask me what gender i am, i shall promptly reply that i am what they think i am. if they think that i'm a male, then i'm a male. if they think that i am a female, then it shall be that. but i've never really used this thought on anyone, or perhaps i'd get so annoyed, or embarassed that i don't know what to say. and then, i can't really use that on children too, right? they'll be so confused that they'll run to their mommies..somehow, i'm like the bogeyman to them.

perhaps, the one consolation that i'll get is realising that i shall remain alone forever. that way, my companion doesn't have to wake up one day and realise that i am not what i am supposed to be. and this is also probably the best way to keep both girls and guys away from approaching me (girls will think that i'm a sista, and not able to provide security and such.. while guys will just think that i'm a freak of nature that deserves to be whacked and dunked into the toilet bowl)..hmm. how wonderful..

guess i've poured out more than i should. once again, i've disappointed myself, but i guess i just have to let some steam off. am still anticipating the arrival of 13th of april....

ciao
je t'aime (do i really?? i wonder)
ben

malaysian timing

if there is one thing that i learnt over the past few days, it'll be that malaysian timing doesn't differ much. i may not be well known for my punctuality, but others really put me to shame. yesterday, i was supposed to have a lunch meeting in KL sentral at 1pm. i was there by 12.50, but my friend was so amazing that he only arrived one hour after me. next, in case u decide to travel using the commuter, don't even bother about the precision of the timing on the board. the train may either arrive too early, or really late. while i was heading out, the train arrived like 10 minutes ahead of stipulated time. while returning, i had to wait for 35 minutes of delayed service, and worse, waited another 10 minutes before the train driver decides to leave the station.

i remembered, back in london, there's no such thing as this. even the bus were on time. and there is no such thing that a train stopping in the middle of its tracks, or a train idling at the station just to wait until it's filled before taking off. i seriously don't know what's wrong with the malaysian services here.

so, yesterday was another day of aimless wandering, across town. this time, we headed to so many malls, and yet got nothing out of it again. i guess i just don't know how to shop here anymore. probably also because there is nothing that i need from here. at least not at this moment...

celine's concert is in 4 days time. passed stadium merdeka yesterday and saw them getting ready the place. i just can't wait for the concert date. but then, it's only last one night. one night of memories..and that's the end. haih. well, here's a weird thought. considering that she'll be here for at least 2 days, which hotel will she be staying in?? will it be here, in this super posh gardens? or will she be in the hilton? gosh.. beats me to figure out where she'll be..

ok, gotta go for now. until another time then...a new day will come

ciao
je t'aime
ben

and oh.. am i enjoying this.. i did nothing the whole day except lingering in the hotel room, and now coming online in starbucks in borders, the gardens. the view here is also beautiful.. perfect for a bored guy to come online...hehe

weight issues

i guess the fact that knowing that i've lost weight will eventually make me put on more. when i found out that i was nearly approaching my target, i was really really happy. somehow, when i weighed myself today, i found out that i've put on 2 kilos.
probably it's all the merry making, the eating fiestas.. and the out of hand feasting on mcd's sundae (choco top). seriously, when i get back to penang, i must really double my workout. but then again, is it worth it???

the gardens..

here i am again, seated in yet another starbucks outlet, enjoying a cup of frappucino while surfing. but this time, i'm about 400km from home, in one of the posh malls in the land of the crowded (KL for the uninitiated). yes, i've landed safely (the flight was fun).

well, yesterday was a blast..in the city of entertainment. since mum wasn't working, we decided to head up to genting for a day trip. the weather was actually ok, but then again , we spent most of the time indoors. more specifically, in the casino. call it beginners luck, but genting is subsidising 90 bucks of my trip this time.. yup, kinda struck the mini jackpot with the first machine that i played.. haha. but then again, burswood was my first time, and i didn't win anything then.. well.

as for today, just finished rounding up two malls in less than 2 hours. finished midvalley and the gardens. honestly, i don't really know what to shop for.. i wasn't really in the mood for shopping, and the only thing that i think i am getting is a pair of track bottom from nike (not that i can't get that from penang).

was disappointed with a few things though.. firstly, the front desk ppl of my-yoga doesn't know what's going on in their club. i went over to inquire for a one day yoga, and they are not sure. gosh, they are not sure of everything, even whether bodybalance was from lesmills of not.. haih

next, midvalley is not that big. maybe because i'm used to queensbay, therefore, i don't really see what's the hype with midvalley. besides, we have most of what they have.. and it's not the sale season. went into pets world, and was so disappointed. there's not many pets there, and the dog pen stinks. they should really take a good look from cty in penang. the only thing that facinated me was the chameleon there.. haih.

marks and spencer.. another disappointment. probably because i've been to the ones in UK, but seriously, it's really really small in here. and robinsons..haih. there's nothing there for me. am i really picky? or i guess there's just nothing right for me here. what's worse.. i'm tasked to look out for souveniers for my two besties.. and i couldn't find anything interesting here to buy. gosh. i have another 3 more days of aimless wondering. let's hope that it'll be better.

tomorrow, probably i'll head away from the malls and go into town. after all, it's only a few stops away. but just don't get me started about the komuter and monorail service here. it's as if that the Kl-ites have lost all their manners.. and it's just ridiculous. i find it rather perplexing that i have no problem travelling around london and perth all by myself, but here, i guess it's a different story all together.

guess i'll sign off from here now. and in case u are wondering.. no, there are no eye-candy in this area too. haha. will try to upload pictures when i return (i've forgotten to pack in my usb cable).

ciao
je t'aime
ben

leaving on a jetplane

a classic peter,paul and mary song here probably best describe what's up for me in the next few hours. as you may probably read, or heard, i'm headed down to KL this time. it's not that far, and it's not that long. but somehow, there's this weird feeling that keeps on playing in my head. there is a weird sense of longing, and i just don't know... but anyhow, i've said my goodbyes.. crazy me...

let's just hope that i'll rediscover myself in KL in this coming few days. probably this unexpected vacation is what i really need. besides, it's also probably time to get to know the big city...for future.. haha. i don't know. anyway, i'll just let it pass and 5 days will just come and go. i'll be bringing my lappie, but let's just hope that i will be able to stay connected.

another day, another way.. until then, goodbye.

ciao
je t'aime
ben

over the rainbow

somewhere, someplace, over the rainbow... i know i will find my calling. in the place where troubles melt like lemondrops, away above the chimney tops...that's where you'll find me..

i hope to reach that lovely place sang by eva cassidy soon. seriously, that place seems so beautiful. so tempting, that it makes me wonder what am i doing here? but then, which rainbow am i to follow? and i am not a bird, i can't fly over the rainbow..haih.

i realised that i just can't keep my mouth (or my fingers, for the matter) shut... last night was another night when i poured, yet again, another part of my soul to a friend. i am really disappointed by myself. i couldn't even stay to the promise to shut myself up..why...

but one thing i am proud of.. i have clearly taken my stand on not clubbing anymore. temptations can come from anywhere, but i really think that it's set in stone now. no more clubbing for me..

hmm... so, i've got rhythm, but no soul... i've got hips, but no hop.. techniques, but no energy. thanks anyway. at least i know where i stand.

i think i also deserve another slap for talking about others. sometimes, we can't help but to share opinions. and somehow, i think it's related to me, or at least a little bit. so, u can't blame me if i shall play the political game too. hey, it's a dog eat dog world. if i can't fend for myself, who will do so for me?

maybe i'm a little affected with the ancient war books that i'm reading, and perhaps a little from the movie today too. went for 'three kingdoms: resurrection of the dragon' today, with my granny. it was a nice watch. i'm always interested in ancient cultures, especially the chinese, and i wouldn't give it up for anything. but i think all the ruthless killings, the scheming, and all have got into me a little...

anyway, i'll still say that it's a nice show. go watch if u have the time.

ciao
je t'aime
ben

if happy little bluebirds fly, beyond the rainbow...then why, oh why, can't i???

launch videos

here are some of the happenings during the launch, on the 23rd march.

ciao

balance? jam?

finally, a personal post. i hoped u guys learned a little about qing ming from the previous post. even if u guys can't head to the tombs (or the columbarium), just remember that without our ancestors, there'll never be us.

anyway, i did a sudden jam audition of wed. was only informed in the morning by alan, and seriously, i thought it was another april fool's joke (can't help but to be wary). guess it went alright.

then, went for balance class conducted by janis. it was a usual class, but this afternoon, when i went for her yoga, i was told that she'd conducted an informal audition for me the night before, and i was ok to proceed for training (she did it cause i'm leaving to KL next week).

am going to KL twice next week. as i couldn't cancel my air tickets, i'll have to fly down on the 6th and return on the 10th just in time for my exam. then i'll be leaving to KL again on the 12th for the concert on the 13th. makes me wonder.. why the hassle...is it worth it?

well, i think it's enough for now. i'm tired of typing already.
besides, i wanna catch up on my reading. the book (the tyrant) is just so amazing that i couldn't really put it down.
may do a review soon.

ciao
je t'aime
ben

Qing Ming

it's the 4th of april. according to the heavenly branches and eartly stems, it's the festival of qing ming. in other words, it's the day or rememberance to the departed. celebrated since early civilisation, this festival gained momentum under the teachings of confucius, that is to respect and venerate the elderly.

as such, the chinese have taken to cleaning the tombs of the departed, as well as making offerings to them. it's an anual ritual,and is also important as it reunites the family. during this day, all decendants are expected to return home to pay their respects. it is believed that they will receive blessings from the netherworld.

as this festival is celebrated according to the solar calendar, the dates doesn't change yearly. qing ming normally falls on the 4th or 5th of april, and is normally celebrated as early as 10 days ahead, or as late as 10 days after. during this period, families will gather around the tomb of their ancestors, clearing and sprucing up the tomb. grass and shrubs are uprooted, headstones are repainted, and earth is often added to the tomb. it's believed that all the clearing and cleaning will harness better yang energy, and this will benefit the living.

offerings are then laid out for the departed. normally, offerings are to include roasted pork, chicken and duck. however, with more and more people being cremated and placed in niches in temples, vegetarian offerings are becoming more and more common. other offerings include fresh fruits, rice, duck eggs, pineapple, and sweet meats such as 'huat kuih', or 'bee koh'. tea and wine is a must (unless u're in a temple whereby alcohol is forbidden). the food is laid out in front of the tomb, and the spirits are invited to partake in the feast. however, it's also common to see the living 'sharing' the food with the dead too... after all, they are family.

joss stick and candles are a must, as to invite the departed back to the yang world. joss paper, with gold and silver markings, are folded into ingots to be offered to the departed. besides that, paper clothes and other accessories, as well as hell bank notes are offered to the departed, wishing that the departed will have a better life in the netherworld. sometimes, all these are packed in a nice paper box which symbolises a chest, so that the departed may receive the offerings solely (spirits do fight in the netherworld for offerings). besides all these, there is also a certain type of paper, usually red, to be bought from the store so that it may be placed atop the headstone, and also on the grave itself. this paper (called 'khai chin') is stuck on the grave, symbolising that the 'house' of the departed has got a new roof. (don't ask me where did that come from..). anyhow, all those are getting more and more uncommon now as most of the population now is creamated and sealed in niches in the columbarium.

presently, the meaning of the festival is shrouded by commercialism, with people buying various materials such as paper fridge, paper petrol stations (??), and paper lingerie to be burnt to the departed. they've missed the importance of the festival, that is to remember and cherish the deeds of our ancestors. especially, those living in the south-east asian region (nanyang). without our ancestors taking the chance to the high sea, we'll never be here, on this prosperous land.

until the next festival post, stay safe. blessed be

shopping cart

when was the last time i bought or sold something online? never. i used to be skeptical about online transactions, but i guess my fear is unfounded anymore in this present day. a few days ago, a pal just told me that she's just splurged online again. while she's awaiting her truckload to arrive, i guess i shall start browsing online...hoping to get my truckload too.

anyway, online marketing is never the same anymore with ashop commerce. it's an online shopping cart software, designed to help webies to sell their things online. this ecommerce alternative is secure, ASP built and is tailored to suit specific needs of the business. may it be selling your cross-stitch projects, you setting up your computer business online, ashop is the perfect solution to suit your needs. ashop is also highly dedicated in ensuring that your products deserve proper recognition.



ashop is surely a good pick as they have really good personnels there helping you to market your product effectively. its 100% optimized shopping cart will give you an edge in reaching out to potential buyers, as well as dishing advice to enable you to reach the top of various search engines. apart from that, the software is so affordable that you don't have to waste much of your hard earned money just to maintain it. with the flexible plans offered, you are sure to gain more with ashop. lastly, ashop is designed with users in mind, making it so easy that both young and old, professionals and newbies, will want to use this shopping cart software to market their products.

and now, the best part of ashop.....the shopping cart software is based online!! yes. you don't have to download anything, lug your computer around, just to monitor your transactions. at anytime anywhere, with an internet connection, you will be able to access ashop and manage your shopping cart. therefore, you enjoy your sun-bathing in bali, knowing that ashop is just a click away..

so, why wait anymore?? start setting up your own shopping cart to utilise the internet to market and sell your product.

smorty

i started blogging a couple of years ago. actually, it was in 2004 when i started in xanga. back then, bloggers were hardly heard of, and blogs were simply dismissed as 'online- diaries'. however, things have changed very much from then. today, blogs are very powerful medium that can help make or break an industry, or a certain individual. blogs have been used in the recent election to reach out to the youths. blogs also marked the downfall of various famous political figures in malaysia.

however, there is also a new industry on the rise. blog advertising. in other words, blogs are used as medium of communication to spread the word of a certain product, or a certain service. it was unheard of back in those days, but today, blogs can actually help users generate revenues up to the thousands. imagine that, earning money while doing something that we love.

but, you may ask, where do we get advertisers to sponsor our blogs? well, don't worry. smorty is the latest site for blog advertising in town and is great in hooking blogs up with advertisers. there, advertisers will pay bloggers to voice their opinions on a certain product, or services provided. of course, the advertisers will have to review a certain opinion. but fret not, because if the opinion is not satisfactory, smorty will allow bloggers to amend it within a certain period. therefore, it's actually easy to earn those 'greens' with smorty.

apart from that, smorty is also very user-friendly, with a clear interface, allowing newbies to earn without much hassle. there is no need to bid, or wait forever for an opportunity to arise. smorty will keep the opportunities available, until bloggers accept it and earn cash out of it. this is great especially for people like me, who doesn't sit in front of the computer the whole day.

and the best part of smorty, you don't have to wait forever to be paid. bloggers are paid for any posts, by the week. therefore, you don't have to wait the whole month, or more, for any payments. isn't this good news to all?

so, without further ado, just click blog advertising to get started. or you can just click the button on the side panel anytime to start getting paid for blogging.

27 dresses

it's funny how me and alan shared the same moods and emotions. as another friend pointed out, probably we do influence each other more often than not.. haha. i am actually happy that there is someone out there that share almost similar feelings. don't get me wrong, i am not happy when someone is miserable. just happy that there is a similar soul out there, and thanking god for placing this similar soul so close to me. (although, maybe all these be an illusion, concieved by fates to trick me, and to pull me further into the path of misery). guess i'll just enjoy the moment as it is now..

so, went out for a movie this afternoon. 27 dresses. not bad. i know, it's a rom-com.. but still.. there's katherine heigl (oh she's hot). and james marsden (sexy, and can sing too..). of course, in rom-com, there's always the low point, and it made me reflect on my life (again!). however, it's happily ever after in reel life, and just another miserable me in reality. it's amazing that the sensations then, coupled with the moments from the movie, just woke me up from my delusion, allowing me to see reality clearly.

how do we perceive self? when we engage in deals, we want what is best for us. we give ourselves the highest marks when we are asked to judge ourselves. but i couldn't do the same for myself now. on saturday, before going out for dinner and clubbing, i looked at my reflection as i was lying down and realised that i am nothing but just a pathetic being, wallowing in self pity. as i was about to lie down on the bad last night, i looked at my window, and all i saw was a horrible monster. have i really turned into such.... i can't face myself anymore..

well, enough for now. too tired to go on...

ciao
je t'aime
ben