kaLeidoscope miNd

Down Under

2012-02-16T23:26:00.000-08:00

Since I was a kid, it has been one of my dreams to visit the land of koalas and kangaroos. My father visits the country often (since my aunt and her family lives there) and me patiently waiting that someday he will take me with him. I wrote this wishlist entry (just few weeks before my birthday) from my previous blog, thinking that one day I will make this dream a reality ...

[Foodie] Max Brenner

2012-02-16T21:53:00.000-08:00

Max Brenner @ Vivo City Singapore

This place was introduced by our friend E and my cousin Y. Max Brenner is one of the popular chocolate havens in Australia. Since we fail to visit Max Brennah in Oz, we decided to give it a try here in Singapore. Mate C and I ordered their famous "Sukao", served with milk and chocolate chips. A "do it yourself" concentrated hot chocolate - melt the chips and pour the milk. We enjoyed the experience and will surely bring along friends the next we visit to share the fun.

Ambiance: 4/5

Service: 3/5

Food/Drink: 4/5

Price: 4/5

Meet Fire

2012-02-16T19:23:00.000-08:00

My new bookshelf loaded with all kinds of books.

Wicked Tuesday

2012-01-12T22:34:00.000-08:00

It's wickedly aahhmaazing! ^^

The show is from January 6 to April 1, 2012 at Marina Bay Sands. From the story, cast to production it is indeed one of "broadway's biggest blockbuster."

It's the most wonderful time of the year!

2012-01-05T19:51:00.000-08:00

Christmas and New Year are the times I look forward to every year. As I always say, these times in Singapore are way too different from how the Philippines welcome the holidays. I ended 2011 with a blast and welcomed 2012 with a huge hug!

It's been years I wasn't able to visit my mother's hometown, Iligan. It is indeed rare for all of us to gather together since most are now residing in different cities - Bukidnon, Surigao, Manila and Cebu. Out of the blue, Tita N, cousin L and I planned to have a family reunion. Despite the hump and bumps along the way, the event pushed through making my grandparents oh so happy to see all of us together on Christmas day.

A night of soup, salad, sandwich and cake with Kwank, Heart and Shez @ 10Dove St.

The traditional high school friends Christmas gathering. Just the 4 of us and we wanted this to be unique. Ayala, SM or any other malls are out of the list. We thought of going to the beach, an out of town trip or dine in a fancy restaurant, but the weather did not permit these to happen that we all ended meeting up at - SM! Like the usual, we don't know where to go or even what to do. Later that afternoon, we went to watch "Segunda Mano", a tagalog film entry of the MMFF2011, dinner buffet at Parklane Hotel then night chill at Marco Polo Blue Bar. Through skype, Mumai and Bewai joined the party, thanks to technology! It was a fun and spontaneous day with friends and A.

Videoke night with college berks @ Red Box Ayala.

MI: Ghost Protocol with A, lechon kawali dinner with family, Red Mango of course, champagne, my travel bracelet from M and a ride from the carnival.

My lovely Christmas presents from A. <3

Year End 2011 @ SG

2011-12-16T07:58:00.000-08:00

My December shindig kick off at Paypal's Rock Star Party with Elaine.

Lunch buddies Christmas gathering at Bonifacio.

Mac and Friends Party (and dlc's bday) the SG way at Fullerton Hotel.

Christmas dinner with mate Cathy at Marche.

SW Validation Christmas and Bday party.

My Friday

2011-12-16T07:18:00.000-08:00

I am an official Patty Laurel ~~stalker~~ fan ... A regular blog reader, twitter follower and an avid blog giveaways participant. My friend K, who recently attended the Nuffnang Blog Awards in Malaysia got a chance to meet this lovely lady in person. I immediately asked her to send my big HI to Patty and taaddaaah, she mentioned me and friends in twitter! ^^ It's like riding a rollercoaster that I felt my blood cells jumping up and down (for real).

I never got the chance to see her the last time she visited Singapore and because it's Christmas hope Santa will be generous enough to grant my wish : a meet and greet with Ms. Patty Laurel before I reach the age of ... 30 perhaps.

[Foodie] Sukiya

2011-12-04T04:26:00.000-08:00

Sukiya @ Marina Square Singapore

with Petz, Cathy and Moren

Ambiance: 4/5

Service: 4/5

Food: 4/5

Price: 4/5

All About Paige

2011-11-28T06:09:00.000-08:00

“Many of the great achievements of the world were accomplished by tired and discouraged men who kept on working.”

“The best kind of friend is the kind you can sit on a porch swing with, never say a word, then walk away feeling like it was the best conversation that you ever had.”

"A dream you dream alone is only a dream. A dream you dream together is reality."

-John Lennon-

11.11.11

2011-11-11T08:29:00.000-08:00

Hello binary!

One Friday

2011-11-11T08:22:00.000-08:00

Christmas is just around the corner ...

Me, my candy cane tea latte and the bears at CBTL Changi!

All Star

2011-11-11T07:16:00.000-08:00

Every gurl must have ... Chucks! ^^

Happy feet raised up on a Friday.

Stars

2011-10-28T08:35:00.000-07:00

Nala

I look up I see nothing

Then I asked, are we under the same sky?

Here miles away, I see no stars shining

Like diamonds in the sky twinkling

I wish one day, I'll again see them

With you by my side star gazing

[Foodie] Fridate

2011-10-28T08:15:00.000-07:00

Marché is one of my favorite restaurants in Singapore. It's unique with a modern marketplace ambiance. They serve pasta, rotisserie, salad, fresh juice, a wide array of desserts and their very own Rosti.

Tonight is a "table for one" Fridate with self! I ordered their grilled chicken savoury crepe with greens on the side. A generous serving for 13.95sgd. The crepe has vegetables, cheese, special sauce and chicken on the inside. It has a distinct taste that it bothered my palate a bit and because of that I'm giving this dish a 4/5 rating.

Spanish Seafood Paella: 5/5

Rosti with sausage (and sourcream): 5/5

Blackberry tart with vanilla ice cream!!! yummy! : 5/5

[Foodie] Bonifacio

2011-10-12T08:57:00.000-07:00

Aptly named after the Father of the Philippine Revolution, Bonifacio epitomises the revolutionary spirit that drives the team to dish up modern Filipino cuisine to satisfy the tastebuds of those yearning for home-cooked Pinoy dishes.

The food and the restaurants are few of what I miss the most of Cebu. Living here in Singapore gave me the chance to challenge my taste buds to a bunch of new dishes from different cuisine. But one thing's for sure, I will definitely look for something "pinoy" to eat and satisfy my craving. A big thanks to C, who is also a happy eater who brought me to this restaurant in Outram Park that serves Filipino dishes. From nilagang baka, fresh lumpia, toron and the most wanted silog breakfast meal.

We ordered longganisa (ala carte 9.95sgd), pork sisig and adobong kangkong. We wanted to order their nilagang baka, but we can't finish a good for four soup. I like their longganisa, adobong kangkong is delish and sisig is good but according to C (a regular customer) it tastes different that time. Prices are afforable, ranging from 7-25sgd. The place is not that accessible, but you can always give them a call to ask for directions and their staff are more than willing to assist.

Toron and leche flan for the finale! Giving Bonifacio a 4.5/5 rating. A must visit!

[Foodie] Siam Kitchen

2011-10-12T08:02:00.000-07:00

I wanted to try something different on a Sunday, viet or turkish cuisine perhaps. But H and K, my Nutcracker Ballet buddies chose to go anywhere but neutral. Up and down the mall, later we found ourselves getting in a thai resto. "More than just thai food" --- Siam Kitchen!

We ordered their Pad Thai Seafood and Seafood Tom Yum soup. The food were served on time and service was good. The Pad Thai is quite different from those I tried because they use glass noddles instead of rice noodles. The soup is not red nor clear, but a bit brownish to describe. I requested for it not to be very spicy and it tastes good. I give Siam Kitchen a 4/5 rating.

Last stop is Singapore Fountain of Wealth

Today I Say ...

2011-10-10T07:57:00.000-07:00

light

why can't life be simple?

why can't it be true?

everyday brings questions

turning me worried and blue

people complicate things

they come and they go

opinions to situations

lies and judgment to explanations

why can't life be simple?

why can't it be true?

life lived free and easy

no problems and blurry

times like these I wish

that unworthy people will not exist

people who live life with no purpose

just thinking of themselves I suppose

why can't life be simple?

why can't it be true?

Kimmidoll - Ryoko

2011-10-08T08:20:00.000-07:00

The Fifth

"A truly elegant taste is generally accompanied with excellency of heart." - Henry Fielding

[Foodie] TCC Friday

2011-10-08T07:55:00.000-07:00

Their red and white couches are very inviting that everytime I pass by, I wanted to lounge and give it a try. A rainy Friday evening led me to TCC Somerset. A well organize coffee table book menu, the food are enticing; from the soup to the desserts. I ordered Shrooms & Splash Gratin; penne pasta, with mushroom and shrips covered with mozzarella cheese (sounds yummy!). The food was served hot and timely. It looked good, the serving was generous, but I find it a bit salty for my taste buds. Overall, I give TCC a 4/5 rating.

It's A Girl Thing

2011-09-29T08:15:00.000-07:00

Makeup is a girl's best friend (other than diamonds, of course!) and I give myself the biggest applause for officially deciding to get hold of the basics (my considered basic, that is).

I put on makeup only when needed - I am not an expert but I am interested and very much willing to learn. How's that for a beginner? *wink* I just feel the need for it, specially when there are formal events where I need to look a little bit different than the usual.

A visit to Sephora ended Thursday, spending half an hour walking to and fro, and getting amazed with what I'm seeing. A wide selection of makeup, perfume, and beauty products fill the place, leading me to ask, "Am I missing a lot?" But hey, I didn't go out empty-handed.

Taddaaah, presenting what's inside my purse (from BodyShop)!

I got the Sephora Mineral Compact Foundation (27sgd). It has a double-sided sponge, has no fragrance, and is oil-free. With my red flats from the warehouse sale, I bought Maybelline's Mineral Power Blush (2sgd) and EyeStudio eye shadow (2sgd). To complete, there's Avon mini eyeliner, Catwalk lip gloss, and Elf hypershine gloss (from Kaith).

Now, I'm excited! ^^

Red Thursday

2011-09-29T07:29:00.000-07:00

Red Zara flats with strap and Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf Red Velvet Cake <3

Day 3 : A photo taken over 10 years ago of you

2011-09-28T10:24:00.000-07:00


l-r top: guada, pong, nina * l-r bottom: jefie, me, mumai, malen

So I skipped day 2, because 20 of my favorite things are a lot to gather. Here comes day 3 and sure this photo was taken 10 years ago. I never got the chance to write something about them, to tell the world how happy and blessed I am to have them as friends. Now is the time ... readers, meet my high school berks!^^

Malen, the "dancerous" chix of the group. Now living in New Zealand, happily married and a mother of two.

Nina, the song bird. Outspoken and stands to what she believes in. A choir member and loves the theater. Just married!

Guada, the boat owner/canteen in-charge. The youngest in the family and as she always say the youngest in the group since her birthday falls on December. Charming and uses this well when she arrives late during meet ups. :D

Jefie the driver. Often times asked if she'll bring a ride during meet ups. If she does, lucky me 'coz I have a ride home. She lives in a far away land called Consolacion, cracks corny jokes and knows most if not all the household chores (cooking, ironing, cleaning, even plumbing I guess).

Pia, fondly called Pong also the driver. She loves to travel and names Bohol her second home (as noticed she visits the place almost weekly). A dog lover and a happy eater.

Mumai, the group's "clown-ish". You rarely see her frown, she cries and laugh at the same time. She loves experimenting with her hair, this time you see it long, next it's close to nothing. Never a dull moment with her.

All are RN and because of their profession we often times see each other. Out of town trips are priceless and even dinner or coffee meet ups are made memorable. We are a bunch of different individuals glued together by fate. We've been through the ups and downs of friendship and at this very moment I am grateful to say, cheers to a decade!

"The most beautiful discovery that true friends can make is that they can grow separately without growing apart."

Day 1 : A photo that makes you happy

2011-09-26T07:21:00.000-07:00

"You Are The Sunshine Of My Life. That's Why I'll Always Stay Around"

Sunrise and sunset never fails to put a smile on my face.

The beauty it gives the sky, it's warmth.

It's priceless, how magical!

From Singapore with Love

2011-09-23T08:45:00.000-07:00

Eiffel

Dear Eiffel,
Do wait for me, I'm still saving up to see you.
I know it's been awhile, but please be patient.
See you soonest!

Love,
Jen

F1 Friday

2011-09-23T07:48:00.000-07:00

body massage at last! tea of the day while waiting for my turn

My Starbucks green tea latte

Feeling tourist in Singapore walking along the not so busy Orchard Road.

Happy Friday everyone!!! ^^

To take or not to take?

2011-09-23T01:01:00.000-07:00

Challenge

Here below are the topics for a 30-day blog challenge. This was shared by Kaith who's excited to take this to the next level and give it a twist. True, some questions are quite revealing that I am thinking twice if I'm ready to confess. That is something I myself will look forward to.

Day 1 A photo that makes you happy
Day 2 20 of my favorite things
Day 3 A photo taken over 10 years ago of you
Day 4 Something you are OCD about
Day 5 Your dream house
Day 6 A song that makes you cry (or nearly)
Day 7 My worst habit
Day 8 What’s in my handbag/purse
Day 9 Hopes, dreams and plans for the next 365 days
Day 10 A dream for the future
Day 11 Who can’t you live without?
Day 12 If you could wish for anything that would come true, what would you wish for?
Day 13 Have you ever had your heart broken? Have you ever broken a heart?
Day 14 What do you like most about yourself?
Day 15 What do you dislike most about yourself?
Day 16 What do people notice about you?
Day 17 What’s something you wish you could say to someone?
Day 18 Whom do you admire the most?
Day 19 What is your goal in life?
Day 20 What are the 10 most significant events in your life?
Day 21 If you died tomorrow, what’s one thing you’d regret not doing?
Day 22 What’s an inside joke you have with someone?
Day 23 Two months ago, where were you and what were you doing?
Day 24 Do you have saved text messages? If so, who are they from and why do you still have them?
Day 25 Write 5 messages to 5 different people without using names.
Day 26 What’s something you’re really excited for?
Day 27 What do you feel guilty for doing?
Day 28 Tattoos. If you have one, post it and its story. If not, what do you want?
Day 29 Picture of your makeup collection
Day 30 When were the happiest days of your life?

A tough and exciting 30-days indeed. Now, who's up to give it a try and dare to bare?

[Foodie] Momiji

2011-09-18T04:16:00.000-07:00

Momiji Japanese Restaurant offers authentic Japanese cuisine buffet style.

Price Range:

Lunch [12:00 - 2:30pm]: 19.80+ - 26.80+

Dinner [6:00 - 10:00pm]: 29.80+ - 39.80+

They offer 15% discount to Passion Card holders.

Ambiance: 5/5

Food: 5/5

Price: 5/5

price image

Beary Luv

2011-09-16T08:50:00.000-07:00

You constantly make my heart beat

and make it skip a beat at the same time.

All the time.

-072710-

[Foodie] BaliThai

2011-09-16T08:47:00.000-07:00

Bali Thai Restaurant serves Indonesian and Thai dishes.

Pad Thai
Portion: 4/5
Taste: 3.5/5
Comment: Just a piece of prawn on top of the noodles, few tofu and a bit of chicken.

Thai Ice Tea
Portion: 3/5
Taste: 2.5/5
Comment: Too sweet for my taste buds.

Weekend Visit

2011-09-14T10:21:00.000-07:00

Always ... there's no place like home! A weekend visit to motherland and it made my three days puuurrfect! ^^

Jollibee bfast, catchin' up with the folks, to the ENT doctor, then visited Redemtorist Church.

Lunch at KK, post lunch with friends at Shakey's, coffee at Figaro

P.S. Thanks Kaith for the yummy red velvet cupcakes <3

Korean dinner with highschool berks and friends, coffee at Bo's

What's up Wednesday?

2011-09-14T09:35:00.000-07:00

Stress is a term in psychology and biology, borrowed from physics and engineering and first used in the biological context in the 1930s, which has in more recent decades become commonly used in popular parlance. It refers to the consequence of the failure of an organism — human or other animal — to respond adequately to mental, emotional, or physical demands, whether actual or imagined.

The definition sounds complicated, but my day is as complicated as it sounds! (how's that?) Good thing I have friends who are there to hear my unending stories and patient enough to bear with my "dita" mood. And the best-ess way to de-stress ... good food, chit-chat and shopping.

Rösti and Chicken Cheese Sausage @ Marche

Dinner and chit-chat with lunch buddies, Maloi and Kat.

Anchor necklace from H&M Singapore. Just this for me while Maloi got few stuff. (she did the shopping part)

*drumroll* My roomie's pasalubong from her EuroTrip. Merci @Elaine!

Thursday now, hoping today will not be as bad as yesterday. Good morning world! ^^

Amazing Phuket

2011-09-04T01:51:00.000-07:00

Next stop … Phuket!

Phuket is Thailand's largest island. It is 48 km in length, 21 km at its widest, and is in Southern Thailand, on the west-facing Andaman Sea coastline, suspended from the southern tip of Phang Nga Province by a pair of short but substantial road bridges.

A travel deal grabbed from BigDeal.sg sometime April. It’s a 4D3N stay in Deevana Patong Resort and Spa, 1hr Thai Massage, airport transfer and breakfast for 99sgd. We booked the trip for August, made the necessary arrangements, research and planning within 3months (long time I guess for a short trip). We bought our air tickets from Tiger Airways, booked our tours (safari tour, Phi-Phi Island and Krabi Island Hopping) and all set for our Phuket adventure.


Deevana Patong Resort and Spa

Cozy and nice, yummy bfast buffet, but no free wifi.

The Nature of Ban Pae Waterfall Safari

Elephant Trekking, Rubber Tapping, Elephant Show, Gibbon Project

Bangpae Waterfall with friends from New Zealand and Scotland and a sumptuous Thai dinner after the jungle walk.

Krabi Island Tour

Krabi is in the southern province on Thailand's Andaman seaboard. With more than a 100 different islands, with their white sand beaches and crystal clear water, this is a destination popular with tourists across the globe. Day 2 in Phuket and the weather is definitely not cooperating. We see no signs that mr. sun will shine so bright and rain poured so hard that we left the island with no tan lines.

Tup Island, Chicken Island, Poda Island, Railay Beach and Pranang Cave

Phi Phi Island Tour by speedboat

Koh Phi Phi or Ko Phi Phi Island is the most popular island tours in Phuket, Thailand and voted by visitors one of the top 10 best snorkeling and diving site in the world. You shouldn’t miss this trip if you are traveling to Phuket Island. And on our third, a storm joined the fun in the island.

Phi Phi Ley and Phi Phi Don Island

On our last night, rain stopped for awhile that we immediately prep to explore Andaman area, eat some place and meet friends at Hard Rock Cafe.

Alaha Din: Thai and Indian Cuisine

with our Indian friends Neelu and Anurag Dubey

Travel Details:

Accommodation: Deevan Patong Resort and Spa
·         30 - 45mins to Phuket Outlet Store
         * Taxi 500baht
·         10 - 15mins to Andaman Bazaar
         * Taxi/tuktuk for 50baht/person
·         10 - 15mins to Patong Beach
·         5 - 10mins Jungceylon Mall
·         45 – 60 mins from Phuket Airport

Airline: Tiger Airways : 180sgd SIN-HKT-SIN
Tours: Mari Tours
Best Time to go to Phuket: December - March
Currency: Baht

Lights Up

2011-09-03T08:29:00.000-07:00

hanging lights at Ramen Play

In the right light, at the right time, everything is extraordinary. ~Aaron Rose

Japs Luvin'

2011-09-03T08:18:00.000-07:00

Gyoza and Yuzu Yogurt @ Ramen Play ... yummy table for 1 dinner! ^^

Sun Yat Fai Lok!

2011-09-03T07:57:00.000-07:00

left-down: reynos, muaye, kenji, moi, julia, gilberto, dundee

Celebrating Julia's bday with her peach cake and work gadgets.

Kimmidoll - Chiaku

2011-09-03T00:20:00.000-07:00

Fourth Surprise <3 [thanks shezzie]

“Laugh as much as you breathe and love as long as you live.”

National Day 2011

2011-08-09T07:17:00.000-07:00

It's Singapore's 46th (not 68th) National Day with the theme Majulah! (means onward). And because it's a holiday, roomie and I decided to check what's the buzz in Haji Lane.

We arrived at around 10:30am and most of the stores were close. They usually open at 11-12noon (coz they close in the morning). Since we got there early, we went to Arab Street instead and waited for the shops to open.

Photos while strolling around Haji Lane ... not to mention this place is full of fashion boutiques and Middle Eastern cafes. (guilty! I lurv the place and got few pieces :D)

expressive and cute

wall side of Piedra Negra resto

Kimmidoll - Hideka

2011-07-30T04:21:00.000-07:00

Now my third

“Wisdom is not a product of schooling but of the lifelong attempt to acquire it” - Einstein

Luvin' Bfast

2011-07-27T07:33:00.000-07:00

Mcdo breakfast always completes my day ...

Something Random

2011-07-25T19:51:00.000-07:00

Trekking @ Mc Richie Reservoir

1. What do you look forward to most in the next six weeks?
- Vacation

2. What’s the last movie you saw?
- Transformers

3. Where is your favorite place to be?
- HOME

4. Where would you go if you could go anywhere?
- standing in front of the Eiffel Tower

5. How many pillows do you sleep with?
- 3

6. What was the last thing you ate?
- a cake from Indonesia

7. What is your favorite ice cream?
- Strawberry

8. Do you like to cuddle?
- yes yes yes

9. Do you know anyone with the same birthday as you?
- yep

10. Who is in the picture frame closest to you?
- Me

Happy Footsies

2011-07-20T01:54:00.000-07:00

still a bit tight that it hurts
but soon I will get used to
it's white, that's why rain is a no no
footsies now feel pretty and happy
this Wednesday, July 20.

Selamat Datang - Malacca

2011-07-19T19:59:00.000-07:00

Malacca (dubbed The Historic State or Negeri Bersejarah among locals) is the third smallest Malaysian state, after Perlis and Penang. It is located in the southern region of the Malay Peninsula, on the Straits of Malacca.

From Singapore, we took a bus (Hasry Pte Ltd) and the estimated travel time is 3 hours. First stop is the Immigration & Checkpoint Authority of Singapore, which only took a few minutes for us to do the necessary verification. Our next stop is the Malaysian Immigration and because it's weekend, we waited 30-45 minutes to get through the traffic jam. We arrived in Malacca at around 5pm (with all the stopovers).

From the bus station to our hotel (Globallon Hotel), we took a cab that cost us 15RM (most taxis don't go by meter and usually charge 20RM). After checking in and preppin', off we go to explore the streets of Malacca.

Chicken rice for late lunch, Satay Celup for dinner, and A&W for Sunday lunch.

Also known as the Ruins of A Famosa, this structure is one of the four main gates of the famous Portuguese fortress.

This church was originally a small chapel built by Portuguese captains. Old tombstones found inside the ruins bear silent testimony to the final resting place of several Dutch and Portuguese nationals.

The first train and airplane in Malacca.

The Maritime Museum, along Jalan Quayside by the banks of the Malacca River, is housed in the life-size replica of the Flor de la Mar, the Portuguese galleon that sank in the Malacca Harbour in the 16th century. Inside this museum are dioramas and intricately designed ship models.

The Stadthuys, also known as the Red Square, is a historical structure situated in the heart of Malacca Town, the administrative capital of the state of Malacca, Malaysia. It was built by the Dutch occupants in 1650 as the office of the Dutch Governor and Deputy Governor.

The center street of Chinatown known for it's antique shops, crafts, clothing outlets and restaurants. Here we tasted Malacca's famous dessert -- Cendol.

It was a fun, tiring and memorable weekend for me and the gang. The food trips and the long walks ( I say looong) added a spicy kick to this trip.

'till next time lunch buddies! :D

Trip Info:

Accommodation: Globallon Hotel (3 bedroom apartment) : 325RM

Bus to Malacca: Hasry Pte Ltd : 20SGD

Bus to Singapore: Sri Maju : 20SGD

Twistee Sunday

2011-07-10T07:15:00.000-07:00

It's been a long time twistee!

Thought I'll never see you again.

Now I will look forward to Mcdo days with you.

p.s. missing my Mcdo buddy

Good Times

2011-07-08T23:17:00.000-07:00

A long line greeted us that we get to grab our seats after an hour (or almost) of waiting. Aston's is famous for their steak and grilled dishes. True thing, this place is a must try.

Me and my Black Pepper Steak with corn on the cob and coleslaw side dishes. This combo meal costs 11.90sgd and it's really good. (rating: 8/10)

l-r: tee, james, arnel, kim, me, mimi and achi

Always good times with good friends.:D

End of June

2011-06-30T09:18:00.000-07:00

I am ending this month watching you soundly sleep

Hearing you breathe and waiting for that mighty snore

Seems like you're just on the other side of this glass window

A place I can easily reach, somewhere I can be in a snap

Today, so many words were said

Yet, we face another month together

With the differences, the arguments

But, do know in my heart I keep

My luv it's you and you I will always miss ...

Image: sleepyhead

Tuesday

2011-06-28T07:54:00.000-07:00

We Love Sushi

Pick all you want sushi, each plate costs 1.80sgd++

Surprisingly Mango

Oh how I miss Red Mango! (and my partner in crime ;))

Kimmidoll -Akiko

2011-06-28T07:36:00.000-07:00

My Number Two

There are many paths to enlightenment. Be sure to take one with a heart. - Lao Tzu

It's been

2011-06-26T20:31:00.000-07:00

7 months and 21 days ...

I miss waking up knowing my parents are just around the corner, eating breakfast or doing their usual chores. I miss my brother, who wakes me up at an early time asking questions about this and that. I miss going out of the house, seeing familiar faces, hearing the busy road and smelling enigmatic scent. I miss grocery weekends with family and the Q&A portion-book flipping in bookstores. I miss the wake up calls, lunch outs, dinner dates, out of town trips and chitchat with friends. I miss the regular routine I do for 25 years.

Thought living away from home will be easy. But 'til this very moment, I can't help but miss everyone and everything in the Philippines. I look forward to seatsales and holidays, both are music to my ear. Weekends make me excited, even 5:30pm during weekdays makes me alive. Adding to the list of what makes me giggle: payday, dining out, shopping and sale. oopppss!:D

"There's no place like home" ... and living in a foreign land makes everyday new and different.

Image from: calendar

062111 : Summer Solstice

2011-06-21T07:16:00.000-07:00

Google's logo for today caught my attention, thinking this is a tribute to the Happy Tree Friends. eehh, I was wrong! The logo is a doodle by Takashi Murakami about the First Day of Summer. (aka Summer Soltice)

A solstice is an astronomical event that happens twice each year when the Sun's apparent position in the sky reaches its northernmost or southernmost extremes. It occurs exactly when the Earth's and the moon's axial tilt is most inclined towards the sun, at its maximum of 23° 26'.

I love the sun and I grab every chance of capturing its beauty. The indescribable feeling of watching the sunrise and sunset is irreplaceable.

Sun shots comin' right up!

Punggol sunrise

Changi Beach sunrise

Early morning bokeh

Sentosa Boardwalk sunset

sources: (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Solstice and http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Summer_solstice)

Friday

2011-06-17T09:33:00.000-07:00

breakfast will never be the same without you

Started Friday with a hearty breakfast @ Mcdo.

therapy

Few grabs with Tee! *wink*

my first

My first pair of pricey slippers and a little japs notebook.

The little things that made Friday! ^^

Kimmidoll - Ami

2011-06-16T08:15:00.000-07:00

My first kimmidoll.

"Love can sometimes be magic. But magic can sometimes... just be an illusion." ~ Javan

Hi Ho Wednesday!

2011-06-07T19:55:00.000-07:00

An early morning greeting from Cebu Pacific Air.

This started Wednesday right. ^^

Guitar Strings

2011-06-06T07:38:00.000-07:00

- 'coz I will always be your number 1 fan -

Out and About

2011-06-05T20:48:00.001-07:00

Tiny tries to go up the stairs on a rainy Monday morning ...

One Fine Saturday

2011-06-04T10:29:00.000-07:00

The quest for iPad2 (16gb and 32gb) began as early as 10am. I gathered all the contact numbers of stores selling Apple products and started calling each asking if they have the item on hand today. Whew, this thing is selling like hotcakes! Just before lunch, I was lucky to have landed on two stores that have the units (one allows me to make the reservation, while the other is first come - first served). To make the story short, the iPad2 units are now with me.

Going from one place to another, few bus stops, lotsa walking (then decided to take a cab), I -- yes me deserves a tummy treat and footsie rest. Kraze Burger at Marina Bay Sands is the place to be. I ordered the Matiz burger -- meat, bacon, cheese, lettuce, onions, tomato, pickles and Kraze's bbq sauce ... yum yum!

I always wanted to watch the Lion King musical at MBS. But for some (or many) reasons, I just can't. Today, I am lucky to have seen the sneak preview of the said musical. Some of the cast were on stage (the skating rink area) to perform 3 songs from the play. Minus the costumes (for the main characters) and special effects, me still very happy to have seen them perform live.

And what a great (excellent) way to end the day ... I need not say anything 'coz the picture says it all. Luvin' sunset at the marina.

Passing by artwork made by kids displayed on the street walls.

A Day in Malaysia

2011-05-29T23:54:00.000-07:00

- Hotel First World @ Genting Highlands -

- Petronas Twin Towers -

- They bring color to the place -

- Alone I stand with the tallest buildings in Malaysia -

- Dancing all day long -

- Sunny and beautiful -

- Panoramic shot outside KLCC -

I speak no more ...

2011-05-23T08:11:00.000-07:00

Happy Hour

2011-05-23T01:02:00.001-07:00

A sunny holiday afternoon, all are out to avail SBC's half the price promo.

Catchin' up with friends with a cup in hand.

Me and Myself

2011-05-22T08:36:00.000-07:00

Photo by: Lance Kwan

An IT graduate, was once a software developer, became a technical writer now a QA engineer. I've somewhat explored the world of information technology and lived in a world of bits and bytes.

I love MAC (the apple), dreams to be a chef and looks forward to travel around the globe. Everyday is full of surprises, but it's a matter of making the most out of it. Life is not just all about ABCs, it is a rollercoaster ride where you feel the rush and see the bliss.

Photography is my passion, my shots reflect my thoughts and emotion.

Sometimes I bring out the poet in me, in rare times you'll catch me.

WOW Philippines

2011-05-22T01:18:00.000-07:00

Puerto Princesa, Palawan

A trip to Palawan will never be complete without a boat tour in the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River, a visit to the crocodile farm, island hopping and a sumptuous meal at KaLui Restaurant.

Bantayan Island

This island is known for its blue water - white sand beaches, dried fish and jam-packed during the holy week. A 3 hour bus ride then aboard a ferry for another hour.

Cagayan de Oro City

This trip is what I call "once in a blue moon". My highschool buddies are all nurses and sure seeing us all together is rare. The trick to this trip is buying the tickets ahead of time and telling everyone, off we go to CDO! Short but memorable 'coz we all did something together for the first time.

Now that most of us are out of the country, I look forward to the day where we see each other over coffee, laugh and do some catchin' up.

Bacolod City

Lucky indeed to have a friend who lives here. I first visited the place way back college, followed by few more. Bacolod is not just all about sugar canes and piyaya, but this part of the country has a lot more to see; Balay Negrenses, The Ruins, Mambukal and to top it all their Bacolod chicken inasal.

Fly High

2011-05-21T23:06:00.000-07:00

Hokkaido, Japan

My first ever international trip all expense paid by the company. Hokkaido is Japan's second largest island and known for its icy winters. Few days after my birthday week, I went to Japan and that time was their "bbbbrrrr" month. Hokkaido Snow Festival just finished, the place is snowing and I'm having fun. Though it was short, that experience heightened my interest to explore the world and see lotsa international stamps in my passport. *wink*

Bangkok, Thailand

Before I moved in to a new company, my friend and I decided to explore the beauty of Thailand. It was a memorable Asian adventure for two girls who just love to travel. From elephants to night market, sure this trip was a blast.

Singapore

Next on the travel list is the Lion City. I was plainly a tourist at this time thinking of seeing the merlion, visit the zoo and walk around the city. A backpacker trip where we stayed in a hostel and ask autie/uncle for directions to be able to reach our destination.

Singapore

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

A 5-6hrs bus ride from Singapore, off we go to see the Petronas Towers in Malaysia. Upon arriving it was raining hard and a speck of disappointment clouded me thinking that I will never get a chance to take pose with the twin towers. That trip is what I call short, the bus ride was even longer. Good thing the rain stopped and the pictures are just right below. :)

Malaysia

Hongkong

The family's first international trip...

Few drops of my convincing charm, I was given the approval to book the tickets and prepare the itinerary. (this trip was also to celebrate my parent's 25th wedding anniversary). HK for me is magical (Disneyland and fairytales), much more memorable spending it with family.

Beijing and Shanghai, China

Dreams do come true! Thought going to China was impossible, but thanks to Cebu Pacific's seat sale, I was able to set foot to one of the 7 wonders of the world. (Great Wall of China) This country is indeed full of history, from empires to dynasty.

China

Batam, Indonesia

The perks of working in Singapore, is to cross neighboring countries in just an hour or two. Just a day tour with friends, visited Batam's tourist spots, shopped and ended the day with a relaxing body massage.

Indonesia