I Have Been Tagged!!!

Padian tagged moi to write about "8 Random Facts/Habits About Me"

Here are the Tagging rules;

1. Each blogger must post these rules.

2. Each Blogger starts with eight random facts/habits about themselves.

3. Bloggers that are tagged need to write on their own blog about their eight things post these rules. At the end of your blog, you need to choose eight people to get tagged and list their names.

4. Don't forget to leave them a comment telling them they've been tagged and read your blog.

Eight random facts/habits about me

1. Contrary to popular opinion, I am a shy person.

2. I can be very anti-social!!

3. I have always wanted a tattoo but am too scared of needles!

4. I love to drink TEA

5. I sleep with my furry friends

6. I absolutely adore Oprah

7. I love nature in its entirety

8. I really want to marry a multi-billionaire!! (Donald Trump, Hugh Hefner and other rich, pervy, corrupt, ugly wrinklies need not apply - rejected outright!!!)

These are the people tagged:

1. Iskiness

2. Balsy

3. Ns

4. Silly Gooseness

5. Long Long

6. London SW11

7. JP

8. Anyone who read this blog entry!!!

Noel! Noel!

I have been reminding myself to buy some christmas cards to send off to friends. I forgot in all the excitement and luxury of having the time and space for me, myself & I -- yup i'm on hols!! Yes, that's an excuse....!! To all who read my blog and celebrate Christmas, here's wishing you all a Happy Christmas and a wonderful new year 2008. This wish is also specially dedicated to:

JP
The Birmingham friends
My 7 wonders (Leeds, Manchester, Harrogate, Sheffield, Margate, London, SW11 London)
Rx, N--k & G-o---e
Fl- & family
J & family in Chicago
P & M E-t-n in Derbyshire
Ch--- & family in Dubai
M or biru who hails from Germany
Dixie

Have a wonderful and festive season. Enjoy and don't over induldge (hehehe - that message is esp for JP & my 7 wonders!!)

Introducing Annie

For this entry, i have a guest blogger. Her name is Annie.

---------------------------------------------------------

Hi everyone. 10 Things to know about me;

1. I am 6 years old

2. I have a brother called H---q

3. I love kuih cincin

4. My favourite colours are pink, yellow, blue & purple

5. I love Barbie dolls

6. I go to school at PGGMB

7. My favourite movie is Enchanted

8. I love to eat brocolli

9. I have a boyfriend

10. I love everyone in the family

Hugs,
Annie x x x x x x x x x ;)

Introducing Mr. C

This adorable ginger tom cat goes by the name of Mr. C. He is the strong, macho and silent type. No one dares to cross Mr. C when he is stroppy -- not even the so called "terror of the neighbourhood" - my silver tabby will definitely give Mr. C a wide berth!!

It has been said that ginger cats are born with red hair traits. Mr. C is definitely spirited and fiery and yet he can be very laid back, languid and affectionate. I must admit though that he has a very hot temper when annoyed - just like human red-heads!! Mr. C hates it when people teases him (warning to Mr. C's tormentors: I know who you are!!! Beware) and he doesn't take it lying down-- he can be very sly and crafty when it comes to exacting his vengence. Just ask any of his tomentors (now his poor victims) - hehehehe

Plate 1: It's gorgeous Mr.C

Plate 2: Mr. C and Ms. O

plate 3: Mr. C is very sleepy now...purr

Mr. C is extremely delightful. Because of his coat colour - he has several nicknmaes to his credit such as Red; Orange; Marmalade and Wartel. Mr. C has looks and personality -- what more can this feline ask for??? Purr...Purr...Purr....

Stay Tuned

Introducing "The Terror of the Neighbourhood"

I have been talking about my feline friends in my purrvious entries. I have two furry friends. This is one of them. Here, she is in one of her moods. She can be such a diva but to moi, she is absolutely purrfect. You can tell from the pictures she's very personable and has a great sense of humour.

Plate 1: Isn't she cute??

Plate 2: Miss Catnip 2007

Plate 3: I'm dreaming of catnip...yummy!!!

Despite her good looks, this particular feline is the terror of the neighbourhood. Cats and even dogs in the block kow tow to this queen. She is one special kitty as she possesses psychic power (refer to purrvious entry on E.S.P.). This tabby sleeps in my room at night. She would sometimes share my pillow and I would wake up with her head beside mine. Isn't she fabpurrless??


Watch This Space

Beauty-licious

A few weeks ago, a close friend and I were having a discussion about this very topic. How do we define beauty???? What do we find beautiful? When it comes to an object of desire and beauty, lets take the Mona Lisa as an example. In my opinion, the model/sitter in that painting is not exactly beautiful and yet it is arguably the most famous painting in the world and interestingly few other works of art have been subject to much scrutiny, study, mythologizing and parody. (read Dan Brown's The Vincci Code or Sigmund Freud's intrepretation about Mona Lisa's smile!. Why do art aficionado find beauty in Leonardo de Vincci's Mona Lisa??

Its a truth universally acknowledged fact that "beauty is in the eye of the beholder". It would be very nice if the world leave it at that!! Unfortunately, we are living in a Barbie's world!! I think it's so pathetic that public perception of beauty is limited to the harsh and cold visage of the typical “Super Model”. You have to be a certain size and possess certain looks in order to be acceptable. But it is generally women who are the cattiest about each other's looks, rather than men. It's women who sneer at other women for being overweight, unattractive or whatever. Magazines and newspapers are full of articles by women picking away at other women's looks.


In Barbie's world, fat is bad; thinness will bring you happiness. This is being taken to extreme in the fashion industry's 'waif' look; hollow cheeks and skeletal bodies. The media is a powerful medium and media images are continually reinforced in everyday life. Comments on women's appearance are so commonplace and accepted that we can underestimate the effect they have on how women perceive themselves. It can create a deep sense of dissatisfaction amongst women about their bodies, a sense of insecurity about themselves and the notion between the 'ideal' body and reality!! But why can't women just ignore this pressure to be a certain size or looks?? Is it vanity?? Is it society?? What is it???

Whatever it is,..... I rather be a real woman...curves and all, not a plastic display piece!! My body is my temple.....health comes first before beauty. After all, you may have the right looks or size but if you are ugly inside, that's really sad...and if all you think about is your image...then i feel really sorry for you sister!!! Get a life!!!

C'mon ladies, unite!! Don't be a slave to an ideal body image. Be healthy. Have a health body and a healthy body image. Don't be obsessed with an ideal weight. Convinced? Don't throw that scale yet (being sarky here..hehehe)!!

This entry is dedicated to Rx who inspires this entry. Hugs XXX

To others - Selamat Hari Raya Aidil Adha.

Excuses! Excuses!

It is a truth universally acknowledged, that we all make excuses, to avoid doing things we don't particularly want to do. Excuses come in different guises - some are feeble excuses, some tell big fat lies, some tell white lies and some come up with fantastic excuses and all that jazz.


We all give excuses in order to avoid dealing with unpleasant situation. I have made and heard some really good, funny and silly excuses in my time!! hehehe. Below are some of my favourite:


My friend S-----e of Leeds gave this excuse to this guy who would not take "no" for an answer. She told him that she had received an obscene call, and had the phone tapped. He shouldn't phone her because the police might inquire at work or home, and she didn't want him to be embarassed. He never called again!!! Wicked!! hehehee


This is an actual excuse I gave to this guy. hehehe. I don't think we should see each other any more. Why? I'm leaving UK for Brunei in two days time. It would have worked if I didn't bump into him at Tesco a week later. (Bummer!!! har!har!har!). Another time, this persistent guy once asked me out on a date. My excuse...I can't date you because I only date guys from the same religion. It works. Hehehe.


Another friend who shall be nameless...stood her date up and her excuse....ooooh! You meant this saturday? I thought it's next week. I am busy!! AND THE WICKED GIRL KEEP UP THE SAME EXCUSE EVERY WEEK!! hehehe


Mother of excuses goes to my former landlady who seem to be washing her hair whenever she is asked for dates by ugly guys!!! One day she told this excuse to this guy.."I'm sorry but I can't go out with you on saturday. I am getting married"!!! heheehehee! liar! pants on fire!


My colleague actually gave this excuse, "I'm sorry I'm late but it was hazy and I missed the junction to work"


A colleague, G-d--n told me this excuse, "Im sorry I can't give a talk because I have kidney stones in my neck". Obviously a big fat lie but its a butt of jokes now amongst my friends.


Traffic!! It was unbelieveable!!


For obvious reasons, this is for saturdays only. I won't be in today because I think its still friday. hehehehehe


Latest excuse - the flood is terrible!!! I can't get to work today!!! hehehe


It’s amazing that people come up with various excuses in order to avoid doing things. But when we come to the crux of the matter, excuses are lies we tell ourselves to avoid dealing with unpleasant truths. One of the most important steps in personal growth is to uproot excuse-making and confront the real issues behind the excuses with consciousness and courage. Mmmm....Don’t let excuses run your life. Shoot down your excuses, face the bitter truth, and start taking the steps necessary to change in the direction you want to go.


That's the question isn't it....will we stop from making excuses or do we tell the truth?? You don't want to date a particular guy because he smells or he's ugly (do you tell him so??......I love to say that I am allergic to ugly/smelly men -- yes, its cruel but effective and it will definitely give the poor man a big complex!!!...and by giving out excuses the poor man can still retain the illusion that he's desirable!!). Sometimes, the truth hurts and what I know for sure is that good excuses are important. We want to retain that veneer of politeness so that the other person will not get offended or hurt. What do you think?? Excuses free or keep them coming baby?!!

December Babies

December is the last month of the year. So many exciting events happen this month -- i am on leave..yipeee!!!; school holidays; travels; christmas; bonus; more time for self, BBF and nearest & dearest; new year eve family party galore!! All in all, I associate this month with rest and fun. To the December babies, Happy Birthday. Hope your birthday is fun!fun!fun! HugsXXX

4 December
Is--d-
H-f--z

Famous People
Tyra Banks
Jay-Z

16 December
I-h-h

Famous Peope
Jane Austen (231 years today)
Margaret Mead (famous anthropologist)

18 December
R-m--h

Famous People
Steven Spielberg

31 December
F-s-

Famous People
Anthony Hopkins
Henri Matisse

December Birth stones
Turquoise; Zircon and Ruby.

Monday: Pearl
Tuesday: Garnet
Wednesday: Cat's Eye
Thursday: Emerald
Friday: Topaz
Saturday: Sapphire
Sunday: Ruby


December Flowers
Holly and Narcissus

December babies are one year older and wiser. Enjoy your day to the fullest because today is your present (no pun intended). Here's wishing you a wonderful year ahead and hugsXX

FIRST LOVE (Part II)

First love is always special to all of us. We all remember our first loves. Aaahhhhh...., for moi, I met Mr. Darcy courtesy of Jane Austen's Pride & Prejudice. I confess that I read the book for the umpteenth times. Anyway, he is special to me since I was thirteen!!!. Devastatingly handsome, mysterious and totally sexy, Mr. Darcy set the bar for all my future boyfriends. What I know for sure is that Mr. Darcy is a female fantasy and that's what he shall remain. Fast forward, I am still looking for my own Mr. Darcy, flesh and blood. Don't get me wrong. I'm not Bridget Jones. I don't need a man to complete me. This is one happy singleton. :p

Contrary to popular opinions, I think we all can have numerous first loves. hehehehe. That's the fun of being alive...we feel the joy, the thrill, the excitement and the rush of firsssttt loooveees. I say, we must enjoy and savour the love train....the good, the bad and the ugly bits. We learn from our 'lurve' experiences. When it comes to love partner, (note to self) must say NO to the following losers;

1. Commitment-phobics. This type definitely has major 'issues with intimacy' and 'commitment'. At first sign, ladies and gents.......,its adieu; au revoir; bye-bye, sayonara loser! Run like hell peope!!!!
   
2. Workaholics. Work is numero uno. They don't have time even for themselves. Very self-absorbed. Selfish!! They are totally so not into you!!!
   
3. Possessive losers. One word: sicko!! Red alert ladies!!
4. Stingy gits!! Avoid at all costs.
5. Don't date your friend even if he fancies you. You must feel the same or its bound to end in tears. Not good!!!
6. They hate your feline friends. Love me, love my cats. hehehehe
   
7. Insensitive and chauvinistic jerks can jump into the nearest infested water full of hungry crocs and sharks!! har!har!har!
8. Needy type!!! They will smother you with love and affection!! It will be death by love. You will be begging for space and distance!!!
   
9. Unfaithful jerks. They are not good enough to wipe your shoes, let alone kiss your lovely feet.
10. Negative personality..... This kind will depress you no end!!! Life is so short...move on!!!
    

It is a truth universally acknowledged that a single girl in possession of her right mind must be in want of a decent man. However, to quote Jane Austen, "To you I shall say, as I have often said before, Do not be in a hurry, the right man will come at last".


WATCH THIS SPACE.

FIRST LOVE

First Love....aaahhhh (all together now!!!). What I know for sure is everyone remembers their first love.....those sweet poignant moments!!. Few experiences will ever be as intense and overwhelming as your first crush. aaahhhhh!!!

Lets talk about moi and my first love. Elsewhere in the star system, I can hear shouts of excitement from my nearest and dearest...dying to know the story!!! hehehehehe. I have many sweet, wonderful, exciting encounters with first loves. (huh?!!! I can just imagine the looks on your faces!!! har!har!har!) I will share the good, the bad and the ugly tales of my many first loves!!!

My very first love is Mr. Mark Darcy. Yes, that fictional yet dashing hero of Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice!!! What is it about Mr. Darcy that send women including tres moi wild?? He is the epitome of a perfect gent, and a sex machine to all chicks. hehehe. He smoulders with sullen intensity and does so while wearing a frilly white shirt and tight breeches!!!! And, yet no one complains about his fashion sense. So, why Mr. Darcy, you may ask...he is not real!!!! Well,...he is anti-man...he is everything a man is not and therefore women adore him. I have loved Mr. Darcy since I was 13 years old. So, what's the secret of this enduring love?? What's the secret to his lasting appeal?? Mr. Darcy is tall, dark and handsome and, a bonus here, extremely wealthy. He is also seductive, aloof, moody, detached, full of integrity and more than a little 'complicated'. He simply oozes sex appeal. Maybe this is the key to his allure. I simply love Mr. Darcy. Enough said!!! If you know a real Mr. Darcy, give him my number.....

As mentioned, I have numerous first loves. My first feline and furry friend....aaahhhh; my first Gucci handbag...aaahhhh..; my first Prada shoes...aaahhh; my first trip to Venice...aaahhhh; my first ride on a roller coaster...aaahhhh; and the ultimate I fell in love with an old flame because he wrote such romantic letters....aaahhhhh!!!

As a teenager, I had numerous crushes and first loves. I thought I was going to marry gorgeous John Stamos of the Full House fame. Sigh! (He is now in E.R....you can slobber over him nightly on the hallmark channel!!). Teenager huh....major crushes on movie stars or rock stars come with the territory!! They say falling in love as a teenager is more intense than the experience in adulthood. I don't know about that...what do you think??? But its often true that these early relationships usually burn out quickly. Let me share some wonderful quotes about first love....


“The magic of first love is our ignorance that it can ever end”. Benjamin Disraeli, 1804-1881.

“First love is only a little foolishness and a lot of curiosity.” George Bernard Shaw, 1856-1950.

Finally, the piece de resistance, my first love was this boy who shall be nameless. I thought it was the end of the world when it ended. It was bitter-sweet. The saying is right, first love will burn out quickly. I was very philosophical when it ended though. Just because this relationship was over, it didn't mean that you'll never find love again. We all got over our first loves. Many people will remember how hard it was to get over their first love, but admit that they found greater loves in their lifetime.

STAY TUNED

E.S.P

What I know for sure is that I have psychic power!!! And that is not self-deception or wishful thinking!!! Family members, BBF and close friends might be skeptical to this claim but yea...I am the real McCoy!! (hands to heart!!!). I really do have this special talent and if family members, BBF and close friends laugh/mock this claim, one word people -ENVY!!! (it's one of the deadly sins) hahahahaha

I believe that there is a little 'psychic' in everyone. It's just that some people do not embrace the power to the fullest. I embrace and harness my gift!! More about ESP...read on..

Extra-Sensory Perception (ESP) is defined as ability to acquire information by paranormal means, independent of any known physical senses or deduction from previous experience. The term was coined by Duke University researcher J. B. Rhine to denote psychic abilities such as telepathy, precognition and clairvoyance. ESP is also sometimes casually referred to as a sixth sense.

As mentioned, we have the potential to be psychic. But its only the selected few who will hone this special gift to the fullest!!! My feline friends have psychic abilities. Take my ginger tom cat....he instinctively knows the psyche of a person. He used to take old flame's stuff and put them in his litter tray. That's a sign people!! He was right...the cat that is...old flame is long gone!! hehehe!!! Cat no:2, i.e. the silver tabby is very intuitive about the weather. She goes outside during the day. In fact, she prides herself as the "terror of the neighbourhood". All the neighbouring cats and dogs are in awe of this feline queen. I like the fact that silver tabby is the all powerful in the neighbourhood -- its all about girl power!!! hehe I digress...

Anyway, she exhibits her special power when it comes to weather. No matter, how beautiful the day/evening is, when cat no:2 hurries upstairs and hides under the bed. Take note. It's a sign that heavy rain/storm is imminent in an hour's time. Well, to the cynics, seeing is believing. They say that much of the belief in ESP is based upon apparently unusual events that seem inexplicable. However, we should not assume that every event in the universe can be explained. Nor should we assume that what is inexplicable requires a paranormal (or supernatural) explanation. Maybe an event can't be explained because there is nothing to explain.

Have you ever experienced a deja vu?? Enough said!!!

As I have this power, I chanel it for the common good. If you do need my special talent, see me.... consultation is free to nearest and dearest!!! hehehehehe

To the scoffers....as they say, ' you can't win them all '!!!

Seven Deadly Sins

Everyone has their own foibles. The table below is mine! As you can see, I have to work on the mediums for a better self. What are yours?? Do this quiz and see whether the answers mirror you!!

Greed:	Low
Gluttony:	Medium
Wrath:	Medium
Sloth:	Low
Envy:	Low
Lust:	Very Low
Pride:	Medium

Curious? Discover Your Sins - Click Here

November babies

The month of November hosts three birthday babies in the family. Here's wishing you a happy and wonderful birthday. Enjoy your day to the fullest. HugsXX

2nd Nov
Ka T--
Marie Antoninette (French Queen)
K.D Lang (Singer)

21st Nov
F-f-
H--z-q
Voltaire (Philosopher)
Bjork (singer)

November stones
Yellow Topaz, Citrine, Turquoise

November flowers
Chrysanthemum

Interesting quotes about birthdays...

"Getting old ain't for sissies" - Betty Davis

" The secret of staying old is to live honestly, eat slowly, and lie about your age" - Lucille Ball

"The old believe everything; the middle-age suspect everything; the young know everything" - Oscar Wilde

Guilty Pleasure

Everyone has at least one guilty pleasure.....I don't mean in something illegal that involves you in snorting coke and printing your own counterfeit money!! hehehe. Its that lifestyle guilty pleasures, a true catch-all for everything and anything we're just a wee bit embarrassed by. I say that guilty pleasures put colour in life, and who are we to deny ourselves? indeed, hehehehe. Fess all, we all give in to temptation from time to time.

These are my list of guilty pleasures.

1. Books! books! books! I love books! I love to read about many things. Families and friends (esp BBF) learn not to accompany me to book stores as I can spend many, many, hours in a bookshop -- my haven!!. I have a large collection of books. I admit that there are some I haven't read yet or some which I haven't the time to read all the way through. Books -- my luxury and ultimate indulgence!!

2. A girl and her shoes - a definite cliché!! When it comes to shoes, I don’t need a reason. hehehe. Shoes are the perfect accessory!! They can make or break an outfit, furthermore a pair of perfect shoes makes your look taller (heels rules!). Suffice to say, I love all kinds of shoes. When it comes to those high-fashion (re: short shelf life) shoes, I buy the cheap version or wait for sales. No sense in spending big money on something I won’t be wearing in a year. Like all true shoe mavens, I covet the true jewels — Gucci, Chanel, Ferragamo, Prada, Tod, Jimmy Choo, Manolo Blahnik and of course Christian Louboutin. I am not ashamed to admit that I salivate over a pair of Christian Louboutin in magazines. My ultimate dream-- moi wearing a pair of strappy, spike heeled Christian Louboutin. I know for sure the price will be v.v.v. steep but hey I sure will look stylish and gorgeous in my Louboutin. hehehehe

3. I love manicure and pedicure. Clean, trimmed cuticles. Callouses removed. Bliss!! Its pure indulgence to sit back and relax, my feet soaking in a warm, scented water while one woman pampers my tootsies while another tends to my hands. I think its sexy to extend a freshly manicured hand to someone. And your strappy heels (see above) always look just that much better with feet that don’t look like they’ve been through the battle of callouses.

4. "The Oprah Winfrey Show". I love Oprah and I am not ashamed to admit it. I schedule my activities around “Oprah”. Family members and BBF know that I am not to be disturbed when I am watching Oprah. They don't dare!!! hehehehe.

5. I read those trashy magazines or tabloids. Even though it is 90% escapism for me, I do tell myself it shines a light on pop culture and it is also just pure sleazy fun.

6. Favorite junk-food treat: samboi. Samboi is dried, preserved pitted plums or prunes. The sourness/saltiness is so strong that they become their own exquisite form of torture. That just makes me want more. A curiosity at first, they demanded a try. With one bite, you were either hooked — or vowed never to touch the vile things again. Hidden in the bedroom drawer, they firmly command respect. hehehhee


7. Chocolate -- Enough said!!!


8. I love hair product especially shampoo and conditioner. I love the smell of freshly washed hair!!! My crowning glory deserves the best baby!!! It's impossible not to reward ourselves with a little self-indulgence from time to time.


9. I am obsessed with E! channel. I reckon this obsession stem from my interest in pop culture!!! See no: 5. Its gratifying to know that celebs have their off days too. They are not perfect esp after watching their faux pas on live television!!! Its pure sleazy fun!!!


10. I give special names to my frenemies. Hehehe

We all have that secret indulgences that fill us with joy and shame in equal measure. Now is the chance to get it off your chest. I dare you!!!

Raya Celebration

10 good reasons why I love Hari Raya.

1. Hari Raya is a celebration of goodwill, forgiveness, fellowship, peace and unity.

2. The Hari Raya festival is not only celebrated by Muslims but friends of other religions too.

3. Hari Raya is special because this is the time for families far and near to get together, eat some good food, and have fun!!! There are lots of that kodak moments too.

4. Hari Raya is a joyous occasion for all. We get to visit friends and relatives' open houses and everyone is welcomed.

5. The highlight of the Raya celebration is the spectacular fireworks, which turned the neighbourhood into a wonderland of light and colour. It produced a fantastic variety of enormous glittering patterns in the night sky.

6. The festive atmosphere is displayed by everyone wearing their best attires, and decorating their homes, and feeding guests and anyone who knocks on the door. i

7. The smiles on children's faces when they receive the green packet.


8. No one is on a diet during Raya....


9. You can start your puasa enam after the first day of Raya.


10. Just because Hari Raya is celebrated for one month in Brunei.


If you have a list, what will be on it???.

77777777777777777777777777777777

Selamat Hari Raya Aidil Fitri

Muslims all over the world are still celebrating Ramadan - a holy month. This is a month that warrant good behaviours to all Muslim believers. We are to "see no evil, speak no evil, hear no evil and do no evil".

Hari Raya, is a Muslim holiday that marks the end of Ramadan, the month of fasting. Because the day depends on the sighting of the moon, the sighting can only be possible just after sunset. For those living in Brunei Darussalam, the moon will be sighted tomorrow. If the moon is observed, Hari Raya will be celebrated on friday. If not, saturday is Hari Raya/Eid Mubarak. For Muslims, Eid ul-Fitr/Hari Raya Aidilfitri is a joyous occasion with important religious significance, celebrating of the achievement of enhanced piety. It is a day of forgiveness, moral victory, peace of congregation, fellowship, brotherhood and unity. It is a time of giving and sharing.

Takbir is a Muslim tradition which is usually observed on Hari Raya. The Takbir is recited after confirmation that the moon of Syawal is sighted on the eve of the last day of Ramadan.

Allahu akbar, Allahu akbar, Allahu akbar	الله أكبر الله أكبر الله أكبر
la ilaha illa Allah	لا إله إلا الله
Allahu akbar, Allahu akbar	الله أكبر الله أكبر
wa li-illahi al-hamd	ولله الحمد

God is the Greatest, God is the Greatest, God is the Greatest

There is no deity but God

God is the Greatest, God is the Greatest

and to God goes all praise

To all my Muslim sisters and brothers, Selamat Hari Raya Aidil Fitri, Maaf Zahir & Batin. Eid ul-Fitr to all of you.

Desert Island

Imagine the scenario... you are going to be on a desert island, alone, for one month. Do you have what it takes to be a survivor? You don't have to worry about water and heat --there's a stream on this island and plenty of firewood.

Twinkle's Desert Island Survival Kit
(Limit to 10 items. Never let it be said I can’t be frugal.)

1. 1 food essential: broccoli rules. I Love my veg!!

2. A must have: sunblock.

3. 1 person from history: Charles Darwin -- Imagine having an interesting discussion about the evolution theory and the law of natural selection by firelight!!! Darwin's theory of evolutionary selection holds that variation within species occurs randomly and that the survival or extinction of each organism is determined by that organism's ability to adapt to its environment. If I'm bored with him....he can entertain me. He's a "monkey" anyway!!! Monkeys are natural born entertainers!!! hahahaha.

4. 1 item I can't live without: my allergy pills

5. 1 luxury item: lip-balm -enough said!!

6. 2 items of choice: A journal and a pen. I have to record my trials and tribulations!!

7. Contraband: A radio. Imagine (worst case scenario), the little island can only picked up just one station that played only dangdut music. Thank God for Darwin the entertainer!!! See item no:3

8. My secret stash of frozen Twix.

9. My new sparkly flip flops. Not great for running, but they’re soooo cute, and just because a girl’s stranded doesn’t mean she can abandon her fashion sense.

10. Matches....loads of them.

What would you bring?? and Why??

October Ode

It has been heartening to know that my "ode to the family" is so popular among the clan!!! As promised, dedications will be bestowed upon 2 family members this month. Pseudonyms are used to spare the nominees' blushes. Once you have read my description...you know who this dedication is for...

"Mistress of Herbs".
This is a very special person in the family. Relatives near and far for sure come to see her. She is a consultant, an adviser, a masseur, a shaman and a healer. I have a very interesting relationship with her. At times, we don't see eye-to-eye and she nags!!! In spite of this, I do love and honour her. When it matters, she is always there. This tribute is to honour her place and contribution in the family as the matriarch.

"Master of the sea".
This person is the eldest in the family. I can say that he is one of the artists in the family. He loves to work with wood. He is a lover of all creatures great and small. I think his greatest passion is fish and the sea. This love can be observed in his collection of fish memorabilia. His life and work revolves around the ocean. He is the real Master of the Sea.

October Babies

Its birthday galore again!! To the October babies -- all my best wishes and love on your day.

1st October
Happy Birthday A-i-f -- Hugs from all of us.

William Boeing (Aeronautic engineer/pioneer) was born on this day. Today is World Vegetarian Day!

12th October
Its the eldest in the family!! Happy "hatch day" Mr.Z - We all love you!!

Luciano Pavarotti (opera singer) was born. Its Mother's Day for the people living in Malawi.

26th October
The late Boy's birthday. In loving memory, "Al-Fatihah"
N-s-a also celebrates her birthday today. Hugs from all the clan.

Hillary Clinton (former US First Lady/US Senator) was born. On this day in history, 26 Oct 2000; Sony launches the Playstation2.

October stones
Opal, Pink Tourmaline and Aquamarine.

October Flowers
Marigold, Rose and Camellia.

Friend + Enemy = Frenemy

Whether we admit it or not, we all have "frenemies". A frenemy is someone who is both "friend" and "enemy". It's totally different from a love and hate relationship. It's more complex and complicated as it has that twisted, psycho, sick flavour to it. Its a relationship that is both mutually beneficial or dependent while being competitive, fraught with risk and mistrust.

Frenemies come in different guises and settings - frenemy at work; frenemy amongst friends; frenemy amongst business rivals etc.

I confess to have several frenemies at work. I consider a work colleague one when - he/she can be a pal one day and stab you in the back the next. Although some might argue that I should learn to live with it and this is a common workplace peril; nevertheless, why do certain colleagues morph into frenemies? Is it because they are congenitally unable to have true friends?; or that's the way these people operate. You may be friends when all is smooth sailing, but when the chips are down, your frenemy will never take the fall.

It's so sad that some people are so laden with fear about their political position or their competence that they never miss an opportunity to plunge the blade in the back. Keeping a frenemy at a distance to minimize the risk of being stabbed doesn't really work. Face it, part of the reason your relationship developed as it did is because the two of you are too dependent on one another, and share too many goals or project to disentangle your professional fortunes.

So, how do we deal with our frenemies at work?? Imagine this -- you go up to your frenemy and said "weapon of choice: pistols -- duel at dawn"!! Of course the victor is me, myself and I!!

Happy Teacher's Day

Teachers facilitate student learning and thinking skills. Although many people see teaching as a "half-a-day" job, most teachers work well outside the school day including weekends. Long hour is not uncommon with no additional financial compensation. In addition, many teachers purchase items for their students and classroom out of their own wages!!

In most cultures, teaching is referred to as a profession. Teachers are considered professionals on par with physicians, lawyers, and CPA's because they are often required to obtain specialized education and professional licensure.

UNESCO inaugurated World Teachers’ Day on 5 October 1994 to celebrate and commemorate the signing of the Recommendation Concerning the Status of Teachers on 5 October 1966. World Teachers’ Day also highlighted the Recommendation Concerning the Status of Higher Education Teaching Personnel adopted in 1997. In Brunei, Teacher's Day, is celebrated on September 23.

I dedicate this entry to all teachers, lecturers, tutors, educators, trainers and instructors. Kudos to all teachers for your service to the country. Happy Teacher's Day.

September Babies

Birthdays are meant to be celebrated. The Birthday person is usually given a treat on the day; or the birthday person gives a treat to his/her loved ones; or the birthday person is subjected to a "rite of transition". (hehehehe -- the "rite of passage" depends on the ingenuity of the organizer).

It's also the day to celebrate the coming of age. Some people love their birthdays and some hate this time of the year. It's the idea of getting progressively older that put the fear of God in some people. It reminds them of their frailty and the time they have on this earth. Its also the moment to reflect how much we have done for selves, families, careers and the community.

September Stones: Sapphire; Lapis lazuli; Peridot
September Flowers: Forget-me-not; Aster

September Birthday Babies

4th L-a- T-s-n
13th The youngest in the family
16th A--s
17th The Newlywed: J----i
18th R-s--h
21st N-z--n
29th P-p-i


Happy Birtday September Babies. Enjoy your day to the fullest.

Reflections

To err is human, to forgive is divine. They say confession is good for the soul. To own up to a 'misdemeaour' is a an admission of guilt. The question is what motivate people to 'fess all'.

There are many reasons why people admit to mistakes. Among others are;

1. They are guilty; enough said!!
2. They are genuinely contrite
3. They want to be forgiven and hence guilt free
4. They are attention seekers and they want the world to know they did it!!!
5. They own up in order to move on
6. Regret and penance
7. Divine salvation

Fasting month is the time to reflect on past mistakes and make amends. It is also the time to accumulate merit points (in religious sense). During this month, it's higly recommended to 'detox' from "earthy pleasures";"decadent" or "sinful" activities - in short "do no evil, see no evil, speak no evil and hear no evil".

Ramadhan is a sure way to warrant good behaviours among fellow believers. Wouldn't it be good if this state of affair continue all year round?? I know this is very pollyannaish but it sure will make the world a better place to live. Happy Fasting Everyone and Be Good!

Fashionista

I love and appreciate beautiful things - may they be clothes, shoes, design, art, paintings, architecture, places, etc.

I went to one of the relatives' new house recently. I love the house design... I'm not just saying that to be nice. The bunglow is a shrine to the "kampong" and "western" concepts. If you sit in one room, you can see through the entire house...its quintessentially stylish, 'airy' and there's lots of light. The scenery outside the house is all green....

One of my connections made a very interesting remark about designs. He insisted that clean lines will do it for him every time. He argues that there's elegance in simplicity. Yes, i 'dig' you LL. You don't like fuss!! However, fashion is a statement of intent or personal taste!! To each his/her own.

Sometimes kitsch designs can be fun too. Occasionally,I do indulge my penchant to kitsch. I suppose, you can always see beauty in kitsch. After all, beauty is in the eye of the beholder and kitsch brings out the playfulness in me!!! Don't get me wrong, I am totally against anything OTT, too loud, too gaudy and too ostentatious!! A little kitsch can be a source of pleasure and amusement. Ask my BFF about her pouty fish. It's totally kitsch and it's a definite ice breaker!!

Vintage stuff? I love vintage especially from the house of Dior, Gucci and Chanel!!! Enough said!!

Shoes?? There are some Imeldas in the house of Staar. hehehe. Identities of shoes hoarders; collectors and fashionistas will be kept under wraps to spare their blushes!!!


My List of beautiful things

Edifice: SOAS Mosque; Angkor Wat; Taj Mahal; The Blue Mosque;
Nature: The natural beauty of Brunei Darussalam
Country/Place: Brunei Darussalam, Thailand, Venice, England and France.
Paintings: The Kiss by Klimt; Sunflower by Van Gogh; The Scream by Munch & Kampong Ayer by Pg Timbang
Dance: Rhumba, Salsa, Tango, Jazz
Animals: All creatures great and small
Felines: Cats rule!!

Stay Tuned!