Suffering from withdrawal symptoms after the korean series "You are beautiful (YAB)"
has ended last Thursday... the curtains are drawn but I am seriously still missing that drama. After "My name is kim sam soon" and "Goong", this is the next romantic comedy collectible DVD box set I am Dying to lay my hands on.
Of late, I discovered I am watching K-drama more than J-drama.
Surprise surprise...
Firstly, before I delve into YAB, I have to confess I didnt know any of the actors in the drama when I first started watching. I'm not a pop idol fan, and I dont care for it either. Drama are entertainment and I just expect to be entertained.
However slowly I found myself rooting for the lead actor Hwang Tae Kyung (played by JGS). I dont even know who Jang Geun Suk was until this drama, but he played this role really well.
Though through the eyes of a tough outback or ruby-playing dude, the Korean guys here might come across alittle androgynous..
What I liked about this drama is that it really spoiled me. The episodes just get better and better each week without those big dragging-its-feet moments. Yeah, maybe occasionally here and there for couple of mins but overall, I havent had a romantic comedy series which had me so glued for a long time. Not to mention, a fantastic OST to boot.
My friend's friend know JGS, as in the real actor and didnt like him. Well some stupid thing about him being "arrogant" and stuff when they first met a few years back, but do I really care? No, not really because his personal life is none of my business and I just think he did a great job in this drama considering he is only 21-22yrs. A lot of potential for a young actor who is seemingly versatile and willing to try different roles. He started out with a chubby innocent face in earlier drama, and has grown to a more sharpen manly feature in this. How many guys can carry that "Elvis" hair do and a dark eyeliner without looking cheesy or grotesque, he might be the first Asian dude to pull it off, looking rather suave for me too.
(I dont really think JSG is cute esp with the cherubic smile, but he sure has a certain X-cool factor when dressed rite, thrown in some cool accessories. Check out the Etude house CM-MV)
A lot of girls go googoo-gaga over JGS and think the world of his songs, which frankly border on average for me. He is a better actor than singer, though I have to give him credit for the last scene for the YAB drama, where he sung "What should I do" while desperately scanning for his love one hidden in the crowd. That has to be his best song to date, and presumably further voice coaching in the cards will render him a better singer than before.
What is it that propel this actor to garner such accolades and love from his young raving female fans in this drama "You are beautiful"? Ditching his "cool" pop celebrity persona aside, I suppose JGS has successfully captured the essence of HTK to perfection- a sensitive guy hiding the fragile "abandoned" soul beneath the arrogant, haughty protective disguise, while maintaining a degree of his unique brand of humour. JGS has given depth to the character with his credible performance. JGS has given this role the flesh and soul with his at times petulant, at times self centered, and at times funny performance that leaves his fans rooting earnestly for him.
The whole team including other actors had also gel well giving superb performance in expressing the role they are tasked with. From FT Island - Hongki also deserve mention. He isnt just playing mere supporting role with mediocre acting, rather, he portrayed the "adorable" Jeremy, to the guy who was in "raw" pain very well. I wont say more as that will ruin the moment for people who hasnt seen the show.
Shinwoo, need I say more. The cutest of the lot, the "prince" who is self indulgent in his romantic grandeur moments...., and the split second of still-pain when he was caught off guard... for a new actor, it was truly worth a pat on the back.
Last but not least, Park who plays Go MinNam is an excellent choice. Who could not root for her. Our sweet, naive and a little dense GMN is so adorable esp when she is willingly "bullied" by her crush. She doesnt makes u want to wallop her for those fumbling moments, but rather she makes you want to cheer for her. This is Park's success in giving the character the convincing simplicity, naivety that draws much laughter without ever rolling your eyes thinking she is a wimp.
The success in the script is the not too conventional lines and moments that goes truly well with the character development. Have I said already how spoilt I am by YAB, that makes me wanting more and never disappointed?
If this review doesnt convince you to go straight out and grab the DVD the minute it is out, then wait a little longer to bite the dust as the rest of the world to go crazy over it when it finally air on local TV. (though I would hate listening to local sub versions because they can never reenact the korean actors themselves)
Meanwhile, I leave you a video clip as a teaser.
JGS aka HTK rendition of "What should I do?"
Sunday, November 29, 2009
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Gasps... I really dont need those...
How does one turn down gestures of good intentions? Apparently pretty hard for me.
Invited my Korean friend over for lunch today. Since it was relatively early before the food places began lunch operations, I got him to pop over to meet me at my place first. I had a shock when I saw him waiting at the reception lobby. He had like a HUGe Grocery bag, as well as a huge rolly of toilet rolls. I didnt know how to react since its like 10am, and I have no idea why he had that dozen roll of toilet paper with him. I must have looked pretty silly with my jaw dropping wide open.
As we entered the lift, he explained those stuff are for me. This is truly one of those rare "catching me totally off guard" moments. Usually, nothing really stun me into involuntary speechlessness but this sure did. When I recovered, I kinda stumbled out "why" while a million possibilities flash thru my brain.
He explained it was Korean custom to offer toilet rolls, tissue paper, showering stuff, hand detergents etc etc. This is to ward off bad luck for new place. Considerin my brain just simply doesnt work well in the morning, I kinda just stare at the toilet rolls and unconsciously said outloud "Oh but I really dont need those stuff because they are all provided for by the service apartment..." ooopsss...Aaaaaawkward...
Frankly I was torn between appreciation and loss. I appreciate the kind thoughts, but I dont use any of the stuff he had bought. As I stare at the things he offload, I was mentally trying to talk myself out of being such an ingrate. But the thoughts just went like this:
" Sorry, apart from baby milk bath, I just dont use most of retail shower stuff, esp not Pamolive shower gel. I'm a brat, I like my "decadent" stuff for the last 20 years. Body shop's fruity bath gel (esp with the save the bottle, buy refill scheme) had spoilt me rotten since I was in school and I have sooo move on to bigger brands.... Then toilet roll...hmmm...not the brand my arse likes because this "super soft" brand leaves "paper bits" stuck in my crackie...I like my 3-4ply roll...SHIT, where do I find space to store this 12 rolls?!!!! As for hand gel, darn, I hated the one he got me because it dries out my hand since I have sensitive skin... I only use two particular brand now...
Of course i didnt actually voice out those thoughts. I kinda accepted the "stuff" even when my inner demon was screaming at myself to ask him to take back some of the stuff since he had better use. However, the asian upbringing of mine vanquish all negating thoughts and thanked my guest politely. I'm not faking it, I do appreciate his thoughts though a nagging whisper was like "My good man, this isnt my house for starters and one surely has to pick the right time and place for observing culture right?" Sigh...I know I know... I am coming off sounding like a jack arse. It's just I hate unnecessary things, especially wasting things...Will it be mean to re-give the things away? Such conflicting emotions....
Well, the day ended pretty early since we were both tired. He was kept up by his partner's snores while mine...sigh..another long story saved for another tea session...
Invited my Korean friend over for lunch today. Since it was relatively early before the food places began lunch operations, I got him to pop over to meet me at my place first. I had a shock when I saw him waiting at the reception lobby. He had like a HUGe Grocery bag, as well as a huge rolly of toilet rolls. I didnt know how to react since its like 10am, and I have no idea why he had that dozen roll of toilet paper with him. I must have looked pretty silly with my jaw dropping wide open.
As we entered the lift, he explained those stuff are for me. This is truly one of those rare "catching me totally off guard" moments. Usually, nothing really stun me into involuntary speechlessness but this sure did. When I recovered, I kinda stumbled out "why" while a million possibilities flash thru my brain.
He explained it was Korean custom to offer toilet rolls, tissue paper, showering stuff, hand detergents etc etc. This is to ward off bad luck for new place. Considerin my brain just simply doesnt work well in the morning, I kinda just stare at the toilet rolls and unconsciously said outloud "Oh but I really dont need those stuff because they are all provided for by the service apartment..." ooopsss...Aaaaaawkward...
Frankly I was torn between appreciation and loss. I appreciate the kind thoughts, but I dont use any of the stuff he had bought. As I stare at the things he offload, I was mentally trying to talk myself out of being such an ingrate. But the thoughts just went like this:
" Sorry, apart from baby milk bath, I just dont use most of retail shower stuff, esp not Pamolive shower gel. I'm a brat, I like my "decadent" stuff for the last 20 years. Body shop's fruity bath gel (esp with the save the bottle, buy refill scheme) had spoilt me rotten since I was in school and I have sooo move on to bigger brands.... Then toilet roll...hmmm...not the brand my arse likes because this "super soft" brand leaves "paper bits" stuck in my crackie...I like my 3-4ply roll...SHIT, where do I find space to store this 12 rolls?!!!! As for hand gel, darn, I hated the one he got me because it dries out my hand since I have sensitive skin... I only use two particular brand now...
Of course i didnt actually voice out those thoughts. I kinda accepted the "stuff" even when my inner demon was screaming at myself to ask him to take back some of the stuff since he had better use. However, the asian upbringing of mine vanquish all negating thoughts and thanked my guest politely. I'm not faking it, I do appreciate his thoughts though a nagging whisper was like "My good man, this isnt my house for starters and one surely has to pick the right time and place for observing culture right?" Sigh...I know I know... I am coming off sounding like a jack arse. It's just I hate unnecessary things, especially wasting things...Will it be mean to re-give the things away? Such conflicting emotions....
Well, the day ended pretty early since we were both tired. He was kept up by his partner's snores while mine...sigh..another long story saved for another tea session...
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Still enjoying the new apartment
Went for another swim today after pilates. Glorious....Might as well enjoy the warm weather while it still last.
I am still rejoicing about having my dishwasher again. It's good not having to wash every single damn plate anymore. I love the man who thought of this invention.... There is definitely no love lost between me and my former rental unit.
Meanwhile, I guess not many people living here cook. The staff werent overly knowledgeable with the operational details and I had to ask for instruction manual. Once one gets so used to cooking your own meal, it's pretty odd to be eating out all the time. After 3 days of meals out, that is about all I can handle... My husband has gone to Japan for work and so I get to whip up something easy, though cooking with induction hot plate is really something rather new and awkward for starters. I'm sure I will get use to it but its just abit finiky trying to work out what 1-9 heat range is vs a raw gas stove's flame.
The lovely thing about staying right above the Elements mall, I get my endless supply of Starbucks hot choc. The rest of the boutiques are pretty much wasted on me since I am not someone who angle for high end fashion or ridicuously branded stuff. Apart from food and beverages, the 3 stores out of the hundreds which are actually of any use or value to me are the supermarket, pharmacy and HMV.
So far the service here is really prompt, polite and efficient. For a service aprt, it's definitely on the pricer end but I think the conveniences are of excellent value for people like me who are creature-of-comfort. The first down side is that I am constantly enclosed in an aircon environment so it's hard to know what is the weather outside and I do miss the occasional freedom to have some fresh air. Plus the other downside, I find it hard to tell if the clothes are cold to touch because they are just cold from the room, or they are still not fully dry...
Well, I have to buckle down and mug for my paper again..sigh. At least I have my starbucks to keep me company.
I am still rejoicing about having my dishwasher again. It's good not having to wash every single damn plate anymore. I love the man who thought of this invention.... There is definitely no love lost between me and my former rental unit.
Meanwhile, I guess not many people living here cook. The staff werent overly knowledgeable with the operational details and I had to ask for instruction manual. Once one gets so used to cooking your own meal, it's pretty odd to be eating out all the time. After 3 days of meals out, that is about all I can handle... My husband has gone to Japan for work and so I get to whip up something easy, though cooking with induction hot plate is really something rather new and awkward for starters. I'm sure I will get use to it but its just abit finiky trying to work out what 1-9 heat range is vs a raw gas stove's flame.
The lovely thing about staying right above the Elements mall, I get my endless supply of Starbucks hot choc. The rest of the boutiques are pretty much wasted on me since I am not someone who angle for high end fashion or ridicuously branded stuff. Apart from food and beverages, the 3 stores out of the hundreds which are actually of any use or value to me are the supermarket, pharmacy and HMV.
So far the service here is really prompt, polite and efficient. For a service aprt, it's definitely on the pricer end but I think the conveniences are of excellent value for people like me who are creature-of-comfort. The first down side is that I am constantly enclosed in an aircon environment so it's hard to know what is the weather outside and I do miss the occasional freedom to have some fresh air. Plus the other downside, I find it hard to tell if the clothes are cold to touch because they are just cold from the room, or they are still not fully dry...
Well, I have to buckle down and mug for my paper again..sigh. At least I have my starbucks to keep me company.
Monday, November 9, 2009
The most (shameless) embarrasing ex-Ms Singapore world...
No Singaporean in our entire history that i can remember since I was born, has ever been as embarrassing as Ris Low, the EX-Ms Singapore World (who is officially disqualified for credit card fraud and now under probation).
When I first heard her interview over Internet, I cringed in horror with her utter BAD English. Shameless is a personal trait, absolutely NO CLASS is her being, but her shining puerile behaviour is so crass that it seriously makes me wince and recoil in shock. Who are the absolute idiotic judges who put her through in the first place? They should never have been chosen as judges nor ever AGAIN for having such bad taste and judgement.
Should we choose a winner for the sake of having one simply because it is a "competition"? Or should we have the sense to abandon ALL non qualifying contestants if none of them comes up to par, meeting the fundamental requirements/ criteria to represent Singapore in overseas competitions. If we are unable to find one of minimal standard, shouldnt we withdraw from the other competitions instead? Why should we insist on electing someone who is only the "best" of the lot but far from ideal from the population lot?
Meanwhile, it's perfectly okay to admit if one is not fluent in English..however to actually shrug her own inadequacies off proudly, and turning it around to accuse her fellow citizens of having equally bad, if not worse English is atrocious behavior on her part! Well bitch, I can perfectly stand in front of a mirror and profess I am not a disgrace to myself and the country for sure and I am pretty sure there are thousands more who can say the same, except for u of course.
To Ms Dishonest and non-remorseful Ris Low, apparently you live in a shallow world of your own. There are countless Singaporeans who speak better English than you. They might not have American or Brit accent, they might speak with our peculiar local accent but at least the words they use are universally recognisable and most have better pronunciation than you. There are more than handful of Singapore nursery school kids of 4yrs old who speak and conduct themselves BETTER THAN YOU.
Ris Low is really an epitome of national shame....an ah-lian trying to glamorize herself just because a table of 3-6 fools had given her the false sense of achievement.
While initially I can just ignore her bad English, but now from the interview it seems she is not at all regretting her actions. It's bad enough to LIE about her criminal case of credit card fraud when she entered the contest, it's even worse when she didnt think it's an issue when she got booted off. It is the WORST when she CONTINUES to conduct interviews nonchalantly and shed such bad light. Yeah please, carry on living in your own little warp world and not drag the rest of your fellow citizens into your fantasy where you are the best.
I truly hope no one else would think every Singaporean is as featherbrained, superficial, ignorant as this 19yr old self-professed trashy bimbo. She is such a disgrace and yet not recognising her own shortcomings and flaws. In 20 years time, I wonder if her pea size brain will work out anything...What is worse, our current society which often focus media highlight to people like her for the wrong reasons will probably not aid her cause, bringing woe to people like us..
Be gone! Shoo! Please Disappear Ms Fraud.
U have discredit yourself sufficiently.
Stop humiliating yourself further...
Extract (original article)
A conversation with Singapore’s most (in)famous ex-beauty queen
...But with her Miss Singapore World title gone, the Singlish-sprouting student spends her free time making smart appearances on talk shows and coining new words faster than you can shout 'BOOMZ!' . We caught up with the 19-year-old over lunch and found that she has engaged a manger to turn around her negative public image.
After all she's been through, this young woman just shrugs off criticism and ridicule. Make no mistake, Ris may have given up her crown after her brush with the law, but she has never been so ready for the big time.
Q: Ris, it's no exaggeration to say that you're now officially Singapore's most recognizable former ex-beauty-queen. Has fame been a dream or nightmare for you so far?
It's been a dream, a fabulous dream. It's like being in wonderland, people recognize you and you get freebies...
Q: I see. But surely it hasn't all been smooth-sailing? You have been getting your fair share of flak and criticism ...
(interrupts) No, I take everything with a pinch of salt. So it's just been a dream to me, even the bad parts.
Q: So you're thoroughly enjoying yourself?
Ah huh. There's no such thing as bad publicity, only publicity. (smiles)
Q: Some people say that you don't know what you're doing and have dragged our country's reputation down with you. What do you have to say to these people?
Can I tell them that they're bull-sh**ing? Please take a look at yourself in the mirror, as if you're not disgracing yourself. Is your English really that good? Can you really speak that well? Can you write that well? Do you think you can stand on the stage and portray yourself?
No, I don't think so. You're just somebody behind a computer, a nerd wearing specs, typing away. Just a coward.
Q: Has there been anything brought up in the media that you would like to clarify?
They said I bought my title, but obviously that's not true. If you spend money and effort going to grooming classes and catwalk classes, of course you'll win.
Nothing comes for free. You must put in the effort to make yourself well known, make yourself be seen. Saying I bought my title is so not true.
Q: So I see you've coined a new word, shingz, which you said translate to 'sucks'. Was that also from your childhood?
No, that's recently. It's like saying basket ... and when you can't say that, you just say shingz.
Q: So are you going to get into the habit of coining new words?
Ya, I can start a Ris Low dictionary anytime. (smiles) Because I'm always into new words, and I like coming up with new ways of expressing myself through different sounds. I base them on sounds la, don't really think there're words actually.
Q: What do you do when you want to go out and have a good time then?
Shopping, shopping, tons of shopping. (laughs) A woman can never get enough of shopping. You get real excitement and thrill out of shopping. It's like you're looking at the clothes and they're asking you to try them out. (in animated tone) That gorgeous dress, ooh look at that!
Q: City Plaza? Eh isn't that where all the aunties do their shopping?
No. (shakes head disapprovingly) ... the clothes are so trashy. And I like trashy clothes.
Q: So what's the trashiest outfit that you have?
Haha, I don't even dare to wear it out, I think my mom will kill me. It's all furry, mid-riff and comes with a short skirt.
When I first heard her interview over Internet, I cringed in horror with her utter BAD English. Shameless is a personal trait, absolutely NO CLASS is her being, but her shining puerile behaviour is so crass that it seriously makes me wince and recoil in shock. Who are the absolute idiotic judges who put her through in the first place? They should never have been chosen as judges nor ever AGAIN for having such bad taste and judgement.
Should we choose a winner for the sake of having one simply because it is a "competition"? Or should we have the sense to abandon ALL non qualifying contestants if none of them comes up to par, meeting the fundamental requirements/ criteria to represent Singapore in overseas competitions. If we are unable to find one of minimal standard, shouldnt we withdraw from the other competitions instead? Why should we insist on electing someone who is only the "best" of the lot but far from ideal from the population lot?
Meanwhile, it's perfectly okay to admit if one is not fluent in English..however to actually shrug her own inadequacies off proudly, and turning it around to accuse her fellow citizens of having equally bad, if not worse English is atrocious behavior on her part! Well bitch, I can perfectly stand in front of a mirror and profess I am not a disgrace to myself and the country for sure and I am pretty sure there are thousands more who can say the same, except for u of course.
To Ms Dishonest and non-remorseful Ris Low, apparently you live in a shallow world of your own. There are countless Singaporeans who speak better English than you. They might not have American or Brit accent, they might speak with our peculiar local accent but at least the words they use are universally recognisable and most have better pronunciation than you. There are more than handful of Singapore nursery school kids of 4yrs old who speak and conduct themselves BETTER THAN YOU.
Ris Low is really an epitome of national shame....an ah-lian trying to glamorize herself just because a table of 3-6 fools had given her the false sense of achievement.
While initially I can just ignore her bad English, but now from the interview it seems she is not at all regretting her actions. It's bad enough to LIE about her criminal case of credit card fraud when she entered the contest, it's even worse when she didnt think it's an issue when she got booted off. It is the WORST when she CONTINUES to conduct interviews nonchalantly and shed such bad light. Yeah please, carry on living in your own little warp world and not drag the rest of your fellow citizens into your fantasy where you are the best.
I truly hope no one else would think every Singaporean is as featherbrained, superficial, ignorant as this 19yr old self-professed trashy bimbo. She is such a disgrace and yet not recognising her own shortcomings and flaws. In 20 years time, I wonder if her pea size brain will work out anything...What is worse, our current society which often focus media highlight to people like her for the wrong reasons will probably not aid her cause, bringing woe to people like us..
Be gone! Shoo! Please Disappear Ms Fraud.
U have discredit yourself sufficiently.
Stop humiliating yourself further...
Extract (original article)
A conversation with Singapore’s most (in)famous ex-beauty queen
...But with her Miss Singapore World title gone, the Singlish-sprouting student spends her free time making smart appearances on talk shows and coining new words faster than you can shout 'BOOMZ!' . We caught up with the 19-year-old over lunch and found that she has engaged a manger to turn around her negative public image.
After all she's been through, this young woman just shrugs off criticism and ridicule. Make no mistake, Ris may have given up her crown after her brush with the law, but she has never been so ready for the big time.
Q: Ris, it's no exaggeration to say that you're now officially Singapore's most recognizable former ex-beauty-queen. Has fame been a dream or nightmare for you so far?
It's been a dream, a fabulous dream. It's like being in wonderland, people recognize you and you get freebies...
Q: I see. But surely it hasn't all been smooth-sailing? You have been getting your fair share of flak and criticism ...
(interrupts) No, I take everything with a pinch of salt. So it's just been a dream to me, even the bad parts.
Q: So you're thoroughly enjoying yourself?
Ah huh. There's no such thing as bad publicity, only publicity. (smiles)
Q: Some people say that you don't know what you're doing and have dragged our country's reputation down with you. What do you have to say to these people?
Can I tell them that they're bull-sh**ing? Please take a look at yourself in the mirror, as if you're not disgracing yourself. Is your English really that good? Can you really speak that well? Can you write that well? Do you think you can stand on the stage and portray yourself?
No, I don't think so. You're just somebody behind a computer, a nerd wearing specs, typing away. Just a coward.
Q: Has there been anything brought up in the media that you would like to clarify?
They said I bought my title, but obviously that's not true. If you spend money and effort going to grooming classes and catwalk classes, of course you'll win.
Nothing comes for free. You must put in the effort to make yourself well known, make yourself be seen. Saying I bought my title is so not true.
Q: So I see you've coined a new word, shingz, which you said translate to 'sucks'. Was that also from your childhood?
No, that's recently. It's like saying basket ... and when you can't say that, you just say shingz.
Q: So are you going to get into the habit of coining new words?
Ya, I can start a Ris Low dictionary anytime. (smiles) Because I'm always into new words, and I like coming up with new ways of expressing myself through different sounds. I base them on sounds la, don't really think there're words actually.
Q: What do you do when you want to go out and have a good time then?
Shopping, shopping, tons of shopping. (laughs) A woman can never get enough of shopping. You get real excitement and thrill out of shopping. It's like you're looking at the clothes and they're asking you to try them out. (in animated tone) That gorgeous dress, ooh look at that!
Q: City Plaza? Eh isn't that where all the aunties do their shopping?
No. (shakes head disapprovingly) ... the clothes are so trashy. And I like trashy clothes.
Q: So what's the trashiest outfit that you have?
Haha, I don't even dare to wear it out, I think my mom will kill me. It's all furry, mid-riff and comes with a short skirt.
Close shave and "escaping" unharmed
Have you ever have those days where you know you are extremely blessed and everything just runs smoothly? Well I have and these 2 weeks have been heaven sent. I just felt like I was being "protected" (by my invisible guardian angel if u believe )
Apart from things going according to plan and without a hitch, I was extremely lucky to escape with close shave and miraculously that I avoided a skull injury.
Last night, my husband and I went apartment viewing. At the balcony, my husband and I were standing there looking out of the open window from seperate end. I was walking towards him and just as I paused and stop, I felt something brushed me and immediately heard something smashed and shattered.
It's funny how your senses doesnt work together all at once. Everything has a minute delay. Firstly, I heard the shattered glass, followed by a thought that it might have been a plate around me. Only then it registered that the shattered shards were at all around me and my feet. Then the pain hit me. The solid glass ceiling light cover had fallen and hit my right shoulder straight on, before rolling off my hands and breaking into many million pieces around me. All the 4 men around me - my husband, 2 agents, the house owner stared on the scene in shock. I went "Ouch" before everyone started to ask me if the glasses had cut me. They were flustered asking me to be careful etc. Fortunately that night, I had an instinct to wear my long jeans and socks which I havent done so for months. I had initially worn a skirt and the last min I went back to change into my jeans. I didnt know why, I just wanted to and now I am glad I did or I am pretty sure I would have been cut as my husband did since he was wearing a berm.
Still my shoulder hurts like hell. Felt like a bloody heavy brick smashing into me. Strange how pain is never felt immediately. I still had time to wonder where the noise was coming from and coming out with all the different possiblities before the pain registers.
What I need to emphasis was how lucky I am.
I would have needed to move forward and towards my right a little since there was something placed on the left. All it will take is one more step and the whole glass thing would have landed on my head but luckily I had paused. Was my husband saying something which was why I stopped? I couldnt rem. All I remembered was that I just stood still. Would it have been just a bump on the head? I wont know but I dont want to know the what if either.. I told my husband, I must have done something right to be "saved". This is the time to say thanks.
When we returned home, we went for swim. As we were taking the escalator down, something crossed my mind. I turned to my husband and said "I had a feeling I will see my ex colleague soon who is also living here." Just as I finished saying the last word, my excolleague called out to me from the upcoming escalator next to me, extending his hands for a shake. I was stunned. How often you have a thought translating into a vision before u. My husband thought it was funny while I was still reeling from events of today. It's like those super powers days. I told him, I had to get my mum to buy 4D. The day is in my favor.:)
Apart from things going according to plan and without a hitch, I was extremely lucky to escape with close shave and miraculously that I avoided a skull injury.
Last night, my husband and I went apartment viewing. At the balcony, my husband and I were standing there looking out of the open window from seperate end. I was walking towards him and just as I paused and stop, I felt something brushed me and immediately heard something smashed and shattered.
It's funny how your senses doesnt work together all at once. Everything has a minute delay. Firstly, I heard the shattered glass, followed by a thought that it might have been a plate around me. Only then it registered that the shattered shards were at all around me and my feet. Then the pain hit me. The solid glass ceiling light cover had fallen and hit my right shoulder straight on, before rolling off my hands and breaking into many million pieces around me. All the 4 men around me - my husband, 2 agents, the house owner stared on the scene in shock. I went "Ouch" before everyone started to ask me if the glasses had cut me. They were flustered asking me to be careful etc. Fortunately that night, I had an instinct to wear my long jeans and socks which I havent done so for months. I had initially worn a skirt and the last min I went back to change into my jeans. I didnt know why, I just wanted to and now I am glad I did or I am pretty sure I would have been cut as my husband did since he was wearing a berm.
Still my shoulder hurts like hell. Felt like a bloody heavy brick smashing into me. Strange how pain is never felt immediately. I still had time to wonder where the noise was coming from and coming out with all the different possiblities before the pain registers.
What I need to emphasis was how lucky I am.
I would have needed to move forward and towards my right a little since there was something placed on the left. All it will take is one more step and the whole glass thing would have landed on my head but luckily I had paused. Was my husband saying something which was why I stopped? I couldnt rem. All I remembered was that I just stood still. Would it have been just a bump on the head? I wont know but I dont want to know the what if either.. I told my husband, I must have done something right to be "saved". This is the time to say thanks.
When we returned home, we went for swim. As we were taking the escalator down, something crossed my mind. I turned to my husband and said "I had a feeling I will see my ex colleague soon who is also living here." Just as I finished saying the last word, my excolleague called out to me from the upcoming escalator next to me, extending his hands for a shake. I was stunned. How often you have a thought translating into a vision before u. My husband thought it was funny while I was still reeling from events of today. It's like those super powers days. I told him, I had to get my mum to buy 4D. The day is in my favor.:)
I love my new place.
Went for my first swim yesterday before dinner and did 20laps warm up.
Life couldnt be better. Had a walk round Elements as well to familarise myself with the new surroundings. Since Sat, I have been singing "I'm in Paradise, I'm living in Paradise" and my husband had such a good laugh.
We are both so happy!!!
Today I went back to pick up some remaining stuff and had a quick chat with the security guard. She told me that my (noisy) neighbor upstairs found out we are leaving. They cautiously asked if it was because they were too noisy and we couldnt take it anymore. The guard said they felt a little bad. Well buddy, no point feeling bad if you couldnt keep the noise level down. The guy also told the security guard that his wife is going to pop end of this month and it would be doubly noisy with the new born, so in a way they are relieved that we are moving...prob afriad of me knocking on their door again. haaaaaaa
Went for my first swim yesterday before dinner and did 20laps warm up.
Life couldnt be better. Had a walk round Elements as well to familarise myself with the new surroundings. Since Sat, I have been singing "I'm in Paradise, I'm living in Paradise" and my husband had such a good laugh.
We are both so happy!!!
Today I went back to pick up some remaining stuff and had a quick chat with the security guard. She told me that my (noisy) neighbor upstairs found out we are leaving. They cautiously asked if it was because they were too noisy and we couldnt take it anymore. The guard said they felt a little bad. Well buddy, no point feeling bad if you couldnt keep the noise level down. The guy also told the security guard that his wife is going to pop end of this month and it would be doubly noisy with the new born, so in a way they are relieved that we are moving...prob afriad of me knocking on their door again. haaaaaaa
Hong Kong Storage Movers is fantastic for local move!
Finally the day has arrived. The day where I get to move out of my rental apartment and into the new service apartment.
I awaited the arrival of sat with great anticipation. Primarily, I can finally rid myself of the loud neighbor upstairs who always keep me awake with the noises from 10pm -2am every nite. Secondly, I am looking forward to the use of the new gym and the fantastic lap pool. Of course, the fact that I dont have to do anymore house cleaning daily is also something worth celebrating.
I didnt know how the service of the storage and moval people will be. I didnt have any referal nor could I find any feedback from the internet. Finding them was frankly quite a stroke of good luck because they are really excellent. I have relocated on average once/twice a year for the last 6 years but this is the first domestic move in HK.
I had narrowed my choice down to Tradewinds or HK storage from a long list of at least dozen other local movers. I didnt want those storage companies which outsourced their movers, and I am hughly suspicious of those which are too cheap (because I found out they had to cut corners esp in terms of packing and materials used in order to compensate for the lower price when they did the job bidding)
Tradewind had come highly recommended on those expat forums. In terms of cost, Tradewind had come slightly cheaper esp in terms of storage. The quote was rather different. HK storage estimated the size of 1200cubic volume storage while Tradewind had estimated 900. Plus Tradewind storage comes only with dehumidfier without airconditioning nor insurance for storage in event of accidents.
In the end, I settled on Hong Kong Storage. Primarily, I think from the fact the survey quote was done by the experienced guys who are doing the packing and moving to store is a motivator that he knows what he is talking about (esp when I ask about methods to protect my furnishing). Secondly, his estimate was closer to my own since I know how much stuff I have from all the container size from my international relocation. Thirdly, they was no hard sell or pushing. When I spoke to Candy the lady from the office, she assured me their guys are experienced and very careful with packing the furniture. I wasnt let down.
Not only are they efficient, the degree of care and top quality of packing materials impressed me. Compared to major movers like Santa Fe, the staff at HONG KONG Storage win hands down. The level of wrapping for my mattress and caring for the wooden furniture almost made me wanted to cry. Of all the moves, none of other movers ever thought of inserting extra folded boxes to the side of my wooden console so that the will not be any accidental dents to the sides. Not even santa fe whom I paid double the price previously thought of that. The guys are friendly, good attitude without the usual cynicism that comes with the nature of the job. This good experience came totally unexpected.
At the end of the move, we had wanted to tip them for all the hard work but the guys declined. They said it was company policy not to accept any extra gratuity. That impressed me even more with their intergrity.
If I ever have to move again or recommend a company that helps with domestic move or moving your stuff to storage, I would say go for Hong Kong Storage. I would not say they are the cheapest (but they are reasonable!!!), but they are definitely the most attentive, cautious bunch with the best packing materials. These guys are the best and this is coming from a highly critical customer.
However, it would be better if you speak cantonese so that one can communicate better with the movers. If you are completely unable to speak cantonese, I would say then go for Tradewinds (+852 2803 2561) since some of the packing staff are Filippinos..
I awaited the arrival of sat with great anticipation. Primarily, I can finally rid myself of the loud neighbor upstairs who always keep me awake with the noises from 10pm -2am every nite. Secondly, I am looking forward to the use of the new gym and the fantastic lap pool. Of course, the fact that I dont have to do anymore house cleaning daily is also something worth celebrating.
I didnt know how the service of the storage and moval people will be. I didnt have any referal nor could I find any feedback from the internet. Finding them was frankly quite a stroke of good luck because they are really excellent. I have relocated on average once/twice a year for the last 6 years but this is the first domestic move in HK.
I had narrowed my choice down to Tradewinds or HK storage from a long list of at least dozen other local movers. I didnt want those storage companies which outsourced their movers, and I am hughly suspicious of those which are too cheap (because I found out they had to cut corners esp in terms of packing and materials used in order to compensate for the lower price when they did the job bidding)
Tradewind had come highly recommended on those expat forums. In terms of cost, Tradewind had come slightly cheaper esp in terms of storage. The quote was rather different. HK storage estimated the size of 1200cubic volume storage while Tradewind had estimated 900. Plus Tradewind storage comes only with dehumidfier without airconditioning nor insurance for storage in event of accidents.
In the end, I settled on Hong Kong Storage. Primarily, I think from the fact the survey quote was done by the experienced guys who are doing the packing and moving to store is a motivator that he knows what he is talking about (esp when I ask about methods to protect my furnishing). Secondly, his estimate was closer to my own since I know how much stuff I have from all the container size from my international relocation. Thirdly, they was no hard sell or pushing. When I spoke to Candy the lady from the office, she assured me their guys are experienced and very careful with packing the furniture. I wasnt let down.
Not only are they efficient, the degree of care and top quality of packing materials impressed me. Compared to major movers like Santa Fe, the staff at HONG KONG Storage win hands down. The level of wrapping for my mattress and caring for the wooden furniture almost made me wanted to cry. Of all the moves, none of other movers ever thought of inserting extra folded boxes to the side of my wooden console so that the will not be any accidental dents to the sides. Not even santa fe whom I paid double the price previously thought of that. The guys are friendly, good attitude without the usual cynicism that comes with the nature of the job. This good experience came totally unexpected.
At the end of the move, we had wanted to tip them for all the hard work but the guys declined. They said it was company policy not to accept any extra gratuity. That impressed me even more with their intergrity.
If I ever have to move again or recommend a company that helps with domestic move or moving your stuff to storage, I would say go for Hong Kong Storage. I would not say they are the cheapest (but they are reasonable!!!), but they are definitely the most attentive, cautious bunch with the best packing materials. These guys are the best and this is coming from a highly critical customer.
However, it would be better if you speak cantonese so that one can communicate better with the movers. If you are completely unable to speak cantonese, I would say then go for Tradewinds (+852 2803 2561) since some of the packing staff are Filippinos..
Friday, November 6, 2009
The day before move
Finally...tomorrow the move will be starting.
I cannot believe my own achievement, packing the whole damn house on my own for the 2 weeks. In between from then till now, my nails and cuticles split, finger sore from ripping all the tapes, and getting hand sandwiched by the damn ladder which fking hurts like hell, and finally, my wrist is seemingly sprained from all the folding boxes and taping it. Must have exert too much pressure. Have to use the other hand to brush teeth now. Sigh.
My husband of course having contributed nothing to the packing, was being exceptionally obliging and accomodating. I let him off the hook since he had to work and quite frankly, uselss to me. Of coz he would make excuses saying that he didnt know how I want to pack it....I roll my eyes and told him "it's not my way, its the common sense way." of coz he said I cannot imply he has no common sense.
To prove "my point", I passed him a sauce bottle and plastic bag, telling him to wrap the bag round the bottle. Instead, he just tied a knot. I laughed. He asked what was soo funny. I said "Wrap the bag ROUND the bottle." he said it is impossible. So i took the bottle and plastic bag to show him and explain the rationale. "If u just put it in, the bag can tear easily and the liquid will spill. So it u wrap it round, the thicker layer acts as a barrier and is harder to tear, and less chance of the liquid spilling" As he watched, he had to disgruntedly admit I was right... and pouted. I didnt know what was funnier, seeing his reluntance to admit "it was common sense" which i said he is lacking in packing, or just that I was right (again)...
Packing things into the box with optimal space usage is a "natural gift" for me. It is like solving a jigsaw puzzle where u have to switch things around and think of the approperiate items in the house to put them together. My husband would only throw things in without much thought. Oh well, at least he was obedient enough to do some of my biddings these few weeks though he sure whine alot....
The good thing about packing things myself is that I got to throw out sooo much "junk". Things that had been following me from countries to countries which he never used nor wear was getting to me. So this time round, I made him throw out (donate) at least 5 big boxes of clothes, 1 box of junk old documents etc. It was soo gratifying I get to index and catalogue, box things together, everything neatly the way I had always wanted. My husband of course groaned and whinned "nnnoooo not indexing..." heeee heeeeee....
Oh well, time for a break...one more nite and this ordeal will be over soon
I cannot believe my own achievement, packing the whole damn house on my own for the 2 weeks. In between from then till now, my nails and cuticles split, finger sore from ripping all the tapes, and getting hand sandwiched by the damn ladder which fking hurts like hell, and finally, my wrist is seemingly sprained from all the folding boxes and taping it. Must have exert too much pressure. Have to use the other hand to brush teeth now. Sigh.
My husband of course having contributed nothing to the packing, was being exceptionally obliging and accomodating. I let him off the hook since he had to work and quite frankly, uselss to me. Of coz he would make excuses saying that he didnt know how I want to pack it....I roll my eyes and told him "it's not my way, its the common sense way." of coz he said I cannot imply he has no common sense.
To prove "my point", I passed him a sauce bottle and plastic bag, telling him to wrap the bag round the bottle. Instead, he just tied a knot. I laughed. He asked what was soo funny. I said "Wrap the bag ROUND the bottle." he said it is impossible. So i took the bottle and plastic bag to show him and explain the rationale. "If u just put it in, the bag can tear easily and the liquid will spill. So it u wrap it round, the thicker layer acts as a barrier and is harder to tear, and less chance of the liquid spilling" As he watched, he had to disgruntedly admit I was right... and pouted. I didnt know what was funnier, seeing his reluntance to admit "it was common sense" which i said he is lacking in packing, or just that I was right (again)...
Packing things into the box with optimal space usage is a "natural gift" for me. It is like solving a jigsaw puzzle where u have to switch things around and think of the approperiate items in the house to put them together. My husband would only throw things in without much thought. Oh well, at least he was obedient enough to do some of my biddings these few weeks though he sure whine alot....
The good thing about packing things myself is that I got to throw out sooo much "junk". Things that had been following me from countries to countries which he never used nor wear was getting to me. So this time round, I made him throw out (donate) at least 5 big boxes of clothes, 1 box of junk old documents etc. It was soo gratifying I get to index and catalogue, box things together, everything neatly the way I had always wanted. My husband of course groaned and whinned "nnnoooo not indexing..." heeee heeeeee....
Oh well, time for a break...one more nite and this ordeal will be over soon
Thursday, November 5, 2009
被國人誤傳了幾千年的八句俗語
被國人誤傳了幾千年的八句俗語
不看不知道，世界還真奇妙！原來我們平時所講的這八個俗語，當初並不是現在的樣子，只不過歷史的變遷，社會的發展使它們發生了不小的變化，與原來的字詞有著天差地別。
1、“嫁雞隨雞，嫁狗隨狗”，原為“嫁乞隨乞，嫁叟隨叟”意思是一個女人即使嫁給乞丐或者是年齡大的人也要隨其生活一輩子。隨著時代的變遷，這一俗語轉音成雞成狗了。
2、“三個臭皮匠，頂個諸葛亮”，“皮匠”實際上是“裨將”的諧音，“裨將”在古代是指“副將”，原意是指三個副將的智慧合起來能頂一個諸葛亮。流傳中，人們將“裨將”說成了“皮匠”。
3、“不見棺材不落淚”，本是“不見親棺不落淚”，並不是見了任何棺材都落淚。訛變為“不見棺材不落淚”，如果不管誰的棺材，只要見到就落淚，那就有點太莫名其妙了。
4、“有眼不識金鑲玉”，本是“有眼不識荊山玉”。荊，指古代楚國；“荊山玉”，是玉匠在荊山發現的玉。
5、“不到黃河心不死”，本是“不到烏江心不死”。烏江，項羽他老人家自刎的地方。烏江訛變成黃河，真是讓人無從解釋了。
6、“捨不得孩子套不住狼”，本是“捨不得鞋子套不住狼”意思是要打到狼，就要不怕跑路，不怕費鞋。不過這個我還能理解點，因為好像四川那邊管鞋叫孩子。如果真的拿活生生的孩子去套狼，也太恐怖啦！
7、“狗屁不通”，這個成語最初是“狗皮不通”。狗的表皮沒有汗腺，酷夏，狗要借助舌頭來散發體內的燥熱。“狗皮不通”就是指狗的身體這個特點，“屁”是污濁的象徵，對於文理不通的東西，以屁來喻，也就將就吧！
8、“王八蛋”這是民間的一句罵人話。實際上，這句話的原來面目是“忘八端”。古代“八端”是指“孝，悌，忠，信，禮，義，廉，恥”，此八端指的是做人之根本，忘記了這“八端”也就是忘了基本的做人根本，可是後來卻被訛變成“王八蛋”。
不看不知道，世界還真奇妙！原來我們平時所講的這八個俗語，當初並不是現在的樣子，只不過歷史的變遷，社會的發展使它們發生了不小的變化，與原來的字詞有著天差地別。
1、“嫁雞隨雞，嫁狗隨狗”，原為“嫁乞隨乞，嫁叟隨叟”意思是一個女人即使嫁給乞丐或者是年齡大的人也要隨其生活一輩子。隨著時代的變遷，這一俗語轉音成雞成狗了。
2、“三個臭皮匠，頂個諸葛亮”，“皮匠”實際上是“裨將”的諧音，“裨將”在古代是指“副將”，原意是指三個副將的智慧合起來能頂一個諸葛亮。流傳中，人們將“裨將”說成了“皮匠”。
3、“不見棺材不落淚”，本是“不見親棺不落淚”，並不是見了任何棺材都落淚。訛變為“不見棺材不落淚”，如果不管誰的棺材，只要見到就落淚，那就有點太莫名其妙了。
4、“有眼不識金鑲玉”，本是“有眼不識荊山玉”。荊，指古代楚國；“荊山玉”，是玉匠在荊山發現的玉。
5、“不到黃河心不死”，本是“不到烏江心不死”。烏江，項羽他老人家自刎的地方。烏江訛變成黃河，真是讓人無從解釋了。
6、“捨不得孩子套不住狼”，本是“捨不得鞋子套不住狼”意思是要打到狼，就要不怕跑路，不怕費鞋。不過這個我還能理解點，因為好像四川那邊管鞋叫孩子。如果真的拿活生生的孩子去套狼，也太恐怖啦！
7、“狗屁不通”，這個成語最初是“狗皮不通”。狗的表皮沒有汗腺，酷夏，狗要借助舌頭來散發體內的燥熱。“狗皮不通”就是指狗的身體這個特點，“屁”是污濁的象徵，對於文理不通的東西，以屁來喻，也就將就吧！
8、“王八蛋”這是民間的一句罵人話。實際上，這句話的原來面目是“忘八端”。古代“八端”是指“孝，悌，忠，信，禮，義，廉，恥”，此八端指的是做人之根本，忘記了這“八端”也就是忘了基本的做人根本，可是後來卻被訛變成“王八蛋”。
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
C-Music: 我愛過很多人
Came across this old Mandarin song [我愛過很多人] by 冯颖琪. But the original singer is 蓝奕邦.
Its nothing spectacular but over a few times, kinda like it. The rythmn and lyrics kept repeating in my head.
Downld
曲/詞: 藍奕邦
編曲/監製: 藍奕邦/李漢金
我愛過很多人 很多人愛過我
卻沒有嘗試過 愛到走火入魔
我愛的那些人 沒一個愛過我
想愛我那些人 我卻大意錯過
我愛的那些人 到現在還恨我
他們說我沒有為愛情付出過
愛我的那些人 很久已經沒有連絡
但我還在回味 從他們身上 得到的收穫
我愛過很多人 很多人愛過我
不是愛得太多 就是愛不夠多
究竟那個時候 才遇到一個人
兩個人給的愛 都是一樣的多
我也不想這樣 一直不知所措...
Translation
I have loved many, and been loved by many
Yet I have never been obsessively in love
To those I had love, none has ever love me
To those who had wanted to love me, I have carelessly missed.
*Those whom I have loved still hate me
They said I have never truly love them
Those who loved me, we have not been in contact for years
Yet for now, I'm still reminiscing those times spent with them.
I have loved many, and many have loved me
It's either one has love too much, or too little
So when will it be, before I will meet one
where both will love equally
(repeat *)
I wont want to be persistently at a complete loss...
Its nothing spectacular but over a few times, kinda like it. The rythmn and lyrics kept repeating in my head.
Downld
曲/詞: 藍奕邦
編曲/監製: 藍奕邦/李漢金
我愛過很多人 很多人愛過我
卻沒有嘗試過 愛到走火入魔
我愛的那些人 沒一個愛過我
想愛我那些人 我卻大意錯過
我愛的那些人 到現在還恨我
他們說我沒有為愛情付出過
愛我的那些人 很久已經沒有連絡
但我還在回味 從他們身上 得到的收穫
我愛過很多人 很多人愛過我
不是愛得太多 就是愛不夠多
究竟那個時候 才遇到一個人
兩個人給的愛 都是一樣的多
我也不想這樣 一直不知所措...
Translation
I have loved many, and been loved by many
Yet I have never been obsessively in love
To those I had love, none has ever love me
To those who had wanted to love me, I have carelessly missed.
*Those whom I have loved still hate me
They said I have never truly love them
Those who loved me, we have not been in contact for years
Yet for now, I'm still reminiscing those times spent with them.
I have loved many, and many have loved me
It's either one has love too much, or too little
So when will it be, before I will meet one
where both will love equally
(repeat *)
I wont want to be persistently at a complete loss...
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