Resolutions for 2009

I detest the idea of making resolutions and I normally do not make any
to start a year (If your name is Siew Khee, you are probably making a
face but do read on. It's long but I do have a point). I find that
most resolutions end up getting broken because they normally start out
from the top of your head and by the end of the first week of the year
they are on the ground between your feet, all trampled.

Let's see some sample resolutions:

1) lose weight
2) drink less coffee
3) take more pictures
4) stick to New Year resolutions...

Technically they are still in effect when the year is in her 12th
month but at this point there is no urgency but more a sense of "oh
well, I didn't achieve my resos so think I shall carry them forward to
the next year" feeling which is usually accompanied by useless regret.

I remember a certain person who for New Year's Eve rather than
celebrating, was going to spend the day reflecting on things he did
not achieve that year.

Bollocks!! How about celebrating life and all the things that makes it
great! Honestly, if there is not one thing a person can celebrate 2
minutes to midnight of the 31st Dec then, I reckon resolutions are not
the only thing this person needs!

Bottom line, we all know what needs to be done and achieved in our
lives and the duration could be more or less depending on the goal.
Let's not limit ourselves.

So let's not make resolutions which are wastefully just goals and
ambitions that do not matter and can be broken. I mean what's the point!

Start the year with promise and expectant of great things and
tremendous blessings which are just around the corner. Stop waiting
for the bump in the road that causes one to falter into negativity. If
it happens and it will; stand up, brush the "dust" off yourself and
look for that next good thing coming round the bend. Believe me it's
there it's just that we are not paying attention.

So if you are not convinced and still need a resolution to start the
year perhaps this: "I resolve to look out for all the good things in
my life big or small and to acknowledge each of them". You'll be
surprised that at the end of the year you'll be celebrating with me!

Cheers M

Thankful for 2008

This year, being a year of new beginnings, one thing I thought would be good to edify the people and the things for which I am thankful for; so here is a list of 8 things I am truly thankful for in 2008.


1) My Life in all it's abundance. Life is so full these days that I can't imagine the much more. But I know that the much more is what's in store in 2009.

2) My Wife. This creature that has adorned my life and changed it for the better forever. I look forward to spend many more days, months and years with this bolo.

3) My Family. What more can I ask for. There is a fair share of dramas, laughter and politics. Amazing thing about this entity is that it always gets bigger with new additions and extensions. We look forward to the next addition.

4) My Friends. This is unfortunately a dwindling number but I am thankful to each one that is still around and still adding to my life.

5) My Work. Not something to be overtly thankful for, but in all honesty it has added to me as a person and a professional. It's where I spend most of my time and I like to make the best of it even though it gets tough and challenging.

6) My Passions. Life without passion can be truly boring and I am thankful that I try my best to be passionate about life and to mix my passion for photography and food into everyday. I am so glad the people around me share the same passions as well.

7) My Blog. I guess the extrovert in me needs an avenue to tell the world what is going on with my life and this blog has allowed me to be creative and even though there are not many people reading it, this blog is more for me to serve as a reminder of how full life is!

8) My Jesus who has become such a big influence of my life, where all previous points (listed above) are entirely attributed to Him. Yes every single one. I know that He will continue to reveal Himself to me in 2009, making this best year to date! A dektos and a radzon year!

Happy New Year everyone.

M Looking Forward!

Mykii

So this year I decided to give me team a year end luncheon to show my appreciation for their hard work. It was totally spontaneous as I only decided to do this on Monday but since two of my guys were on MC I decided to do it on Tuesday. But come Tuesday these two were still on MC so I had to go forward as Wednesday is a half day and I doubt if I could have made it since I had plans. Rather than letting a normal democracy, I decided on the place to go eat. Somewhere nearby, Holland Village and a new joint just open less than a month back called Mykii.

This Greek inspired place, apparently is supposed to transport you to the isle of Mykonos, with its white washed walls and the atypical Greek blue fittings. I was more attracted to this point than anything else, and the Hungrygowhere.com review was good enough, so this was the place reserved. As we arrived the place was nicely tucked in the corner where there is very little human traffic. Overall the outlook was nice and it did somewhat able to deliver on the “transportation to Mykonos” feel.



Starter drinks, this was for me the highlight. If you ever make the trip to this place get yourselves one of the specialty grantias. I got myself the Lemonie Crush and it was really refreshing. It did not last long and was soon gulped down before my mains arrived. The overall service was slow, I account this due to newness of the place and their staffing is not fully ramped up. So it was forgivable. We waited for the mains to be served and we devoured them quietly as we were starving.



Food wise, I must say I was a little disappointed to say the least. The food was pretty average and quite different from the pictures in the menu. My staff who are usually not food critics were the ones who pointed these things out as one of them said “aiya kenna cheated lah” when the actual dish arrived. The food was well presented I give it that much, as pictures do speak for themselves. Star dish was their Pissaladiere, which is their signature dish. The appetizer is an open-faced provencale tart perfectly dressed with a healthy wholesome selection of roasted capsicums, anchovies, olives and onion jam. Although I was not able to get a full bit of this because it was quite quickly polished off and I was left with the scraps, the scraps and the mixture of flavours really impressed me.



My main was the much recommended Seafood Linguine with Laksa Pesto, which is basically a fried linguine, with some seafood and laksa paste served in a stone bowl. Not very impressed lah, think the wife can do a much much better Seafood Pasta! However on another one of our appetizers, we found a rather long hair seared to the grilled chicken. I normally close one eye, when there is hair, but if it hair is gross, which in this case it was; I decided to let the waiter know. They soon apologised and replace the dish.





The online reviews raved about this place's desserts. They looked good and tasted good. However, another surprise find in the Granny Smith & Aloe Vera Crumble really sunk this place to a rather low standard. A remnant of steel wool was found and the bottom of the glass. After letting the staff know, we were given a 10% discount on the overall bill. I did not bother to kick a fuss, because I know this place is new. When paying the bill the manager apologised, and said that their desserts are done offsite and delivered to them so they will feedback to their supplier.

This kinda left me with a singular thought: Food was not too great, with the exception of the Pissaladiere. Hygiene well a long curly hair and some steel wool, ahem. Drinks are good but nothing to be overly excited about. Desserts are good but they are done offsite by a dessert supplier. So what does this place have to offer other than the Star Dish and the ability to give the “transportation to Mykonos” feel?



My thoughts came back to the name Mykii it sort reminded me of the hokkien phrase “Mai Khi” which mean “Don’t Go”.

Enuff said M

Pickled

This is a post that was concieved for long time but I would only post it once I got myself a good picture, and I think I managed to get a good one in. This bottle of pickled vegetables are a birthday gift from Shih Erh a good friend and a fellow blogger.

I was rather surprised when I recieved this because I love these sort of bottled pickled veges or fruits because they are really pretty and they unusually dress up any table. So first surprise was how she knew, cause even the wife did not know, must have been coincidence or just good taste. But I was more surprised to learn that this was indeed edible, making it even more worth while. So as we devour these pickled delights, thanks to Shhhhh for this wonderful gift.

M pickled

Christmas 2008

What a Christmas it has been, despite being rather quiet this year, I think I enjoyed the relaxed pace of this past few days. Moreover the dramatics with the Chairs, Trees and Food, it was a great Christmas mainly due to everyone's presence and champagne of course.

Christmas lunch was the highlight of the day, with our half "catered" and home cooked lunch. SK's prawns were a hit with only 3 prawns left for dinner. It was a different Christmas with pork knuckle, smoked ham, garlic fried rice, SK's famous salad and her newly discovered poached prawns.

After lunch was presents time. I got another big hint for a BBQ. In short, Anita, my sister bought us a BBQ pit (a really nice one) to obviously have a BBQ but we have not had one and the pit has been sitting there. This year she got me a set of BBQ tools. Very nice, I think we should have a barbie soon.

All in all, the day was enjoyable, more than usual because this year we decided on making champagne the drink of the day coupled with Korean strawberries it was really a perfect pairing. This put everyone is a great mood and for the first time, in I do not know how long there was actual singing at the end.

M more than merry

Pimm's Cup

I recently discovered a cocktail called a Pimm's Cup, which a cocktail made from a gin based beverage called Pimm's No. 1 Cup. Yes that is the actual name on the bottle and it is certifiably yummy and great on a balmy afternoon.

Here's the mix:

One part Pimm's No.1 Cup
Three parts lemonade or lemon soda or ginger ale
Ice cubes
A wedge or stick of cucumber
Mint leaves
Slice of lemon (squeezed and dropped in glass)
Slice of orange (squeezed and dropped in glass)
Slices of strawberry or banana (I have not tried the banana but heard its nice)

Enjoy!!

M Chilling

Lazy, Shiny and Happy Afternoons!

We all love leisurely afternoons, and what is better than spending the morning with around 150 plus children who are 3 years old, watching their antics and expressions while being surrounded by people who are full of joy and laugther. And then, rounding of the lazy day with brunch at PS Cafe with some of these fun loving people only to get a phone call with good news, actually great news.

Sorry I can't share the actual news but it is good for me to hear it and for the person conveying it, it is something that he has been working on for the past four years that has finally come to fruition. So all around was a great day!

M look forward.

Phew!

Yes Phew!! The tree is up and boy does it make me feel so happy that it is. And what a glorious tree it is. After all the drama both of us admired the tree and let out a good sigh of relief. What's more it only cost 50 bucks! Yes the emotional ride was not worth having but at the end of the all is well. And as I said in my previous post what is life, if not more interesting with some dramatics!

M Merry again!

Christmas Miscalculation

Last year we did things very last minute. Since there was no gatherings or parties to be had we sort of felt there was no reason to put up a Christmas tree. But as the 25th drew closer and all around were in the festive mood, something was missing. So at the absolute last minute we visited Island Landscape and got our tree (at a great discount) and with some simple decorations and lights from Concourse on the 23rd. All was well and tree did bring lots of good cheer.

This year we decided that we would do a last minute thing again but not to leave things till the absolute 11th hour but at least the weekend before the 25th, so as to also enjoy the discounted rates as we did last year. But much to our bitter disappointment and dismay all trees had been sold the previous day!

We were gutted, that is, whatever good cheer that was holding us up had been sucked away. With the fact that my folks were coming for lunch of the 25th, I was dreading this conversation with Mr. D Senior:

D Senior: Where is the tree?
D Junior: Oh this year decided not to have one lah (jokingly)
D Senior: (Looking perplexed) How can? It's Christmas and a tree is a must(getting disappointed).
D Jr: (Trying to downplay) No must lah, Christmas is about family getting together and spending time together.
D Senior: (Getting near angered) Yes together under the tree with presents. Where are the presents then? (looking around seeing the pile of presents in the corner) There? Dunno if those are for Christmas or someone’s birthday.
D Junior: OK. (Surrendered liaoz)

So instead of having this conversation I said. Ok let's do lunch at the parents. We cook and bring there (considering their tree was up in late Nov). No tree, no party! SK was getting increasingly guilty as she was the one who preferred to keep things so late, I initially wanted to go the previous week but decided to go this week as she suggested. She was almost in tears with the prospect if ruining Christmas as she knew what having a tree meant, considering my happiness last year. It's like Chinese New Year but no Ang Pows, none, notta, zip. How can right?

So dejected, we headed to Bar Chor Mee at Toa Payoh, for some divine inspiration. She started calling the usual contacts and before the bowls were served we got light of a place where trees were still being sold. Jelita Cold Store! So after French class will be another post in coming days, we headed there and got our tree; to be delivered today!!

It was a bit of emotional roller coaster to be honest, with the enthusiasm of getting a tree and then not getting one at all and then hopefully getting one then to actually getting one. I guess that is what makes the two of us, so different from the rest lah, always got drama one!!

M picking the tree later.

Chairs and Menu in time for Christmas

This year we are hosting Christmas lunch at our place. It's not the bestest of family climates but we have to do this as it is tradition like a reunion dinner of sorts.

Immediately certain questions entered our minds. What to cook? Christmas is a feast so the more dishes the merrier but let's go over board when there are only 5 adults. We are torn between Penang Prawn Mee or Beef Stew as an anchor dish.

Both dishes are lots of work but what to accompany them? Prawn Mee for Christmas also sounds strange but hey we are never normal.

Then another conundrum of epic proportions loomed. Where to sit everyone, what with our dining chairs falling apart literally.



We have a beautiful 8 seater rosewood dining set given to us by my sister but the chairs have undergone some wear and tear, so the joints are coming apart. So we re left with only 3 "sitable" chairs which are safe for human "inhabitation" :-)

So rather than giving a lame excuse to the family that Christmas dinner at our place is off because we don't have chairs. We have sourced for a furniture repair shop to come pick up the chairs to get them fixed in time (fingers crossed) for Christmas.

So only thing open now is the menu. Any suggestions on accompaniments to either make Prawn Mee festive or Beef Stew more than a one dish meal would greatly be appreciated!

M Merry

Cantonese Dramas

OK I sure I have got your attention. What is this Indian guy talking about this subject.

Well past few weeks I have been "exiled" to the room because the ladies in the house are watching Cantonese dramas. I am cool with the exile because I get to indulge in the my comfort food in the comfort of my bed.

But there is something about this language and the mannerisms of the people in the dramas that is rather perplexing. The language in it of itself is a rather rude and annoying sounding language. I mean no offence but it is to the untranslated ear. Sounds like they are fighting.

Then there is the mannerisms; they hardly ever look at each other when they are speaking. There always this air of superiority, when one person is talking to the "air above" and the other person is standing behind the other person reacting and listening. If I was that person behind, I would probably turn the person around and say "Here, I am here not up there!". But that's me. Perhaps it is meant for dramatic effect or perhaps it's just bad acting.

I have watched Korean dramas and though some of the theatrics are there but, it is more subtle and natural. I guess they are better actors, and of course the language is more easy on the ear. Oh well actually watching a full Korean drama, Jumong, was an achievement in itself, watershed event more like it.

So who knows maybe I might one day someday actually watch a Cantonese drama. Oh wait! I did; it was this show with an Inpsector Tim, can't remember that name of the show but it was CSI Cantonese style, and boy was it corny. I was laughing more than anything else much to the wife's irritation, what to expect when there are no subtitles.

M open.

Pampered like Siao

So the past few days, I have been down with a bad case of constipation and I am talking bad. Things are going in but nothing is coming out. So quite jialat and I have been in not too great shape.

So time for the wife to swing into action for some healthy food and home remedies. As she slaves away in the kitchen after work to prepare for me something wholesome with a laxative effect I am left to watch tv or just rest because the stomach cramps make it hard to walk.

Tonight was the ultimate. She came home by herself getting groceries on route because I had a late meeting. When I arrive, she is in the kitchen whipping up a storm. Avocado salad - apparently avocado promotes digestion; accompanied by fish soup which was really yummy. Even the chef was self impressed. All this was followed by guava - also promotes disgestion. Topped of with a concoction of lemon juice and salt with hot water. It tastes as foul as it sounds but man does it get the browns going. Not to end there, I was waited on hand and foot. It was a first for me considering I was not bed ridden.

As a result there were numerous visits to the bog and me ending up feeling lots better than the past few days.

So thanks babe, you rock my world. Poor fellow is tired and sound asleep she deserves it.

M no so bloated

Reuben Sandwich Home Style

One of my fond memories when I was in Perth is a place called Fast Eddy's. Those of you who studied there undoubtedly will know the place I am referring to. This place was popular for us students, because it was one of the few if not the only place in Perth that was opened 24 hours. So we night owls congregated there for coffee and some food after some late night studying. For me the best thing to eat there was a Reuben Sandwich, made with rye bread, corned beef, mayonnaise or Thousand Island dressing, and Swiss cheese. Yes I loved this so much that it was my standard meal if I was going there for food and best if it was washed down with choc malt milkshake. Heaven in a foreign land!

So today, my sandie surprise was coincidentally a Reuben Sandwich Home Style which was yummy, memorable and at the same time healthy. Thanks my ever excellent wife who has made this possible! No rye bread, but multi grain bread, just as good; No Swiss cheese, too fattening lah, simple Kraft Singles will do; No Thousand Island, I was always a Mayo man and of course a healthy dosage of greens, lettuce and coriander, thus the home style label! Yum!

M reminiscing

Chili Oil with a side of Beef Noodles please.

Ok if you are one of my ardent fans you will know that I am a wee bit strange. However, if you are new here, then I am sure that after reading this post you would arrive at that conclusion.

There are two places I love to eat at Suntec, Pho House and Crystal Jade. The reason for this love is not their specialty dishes or their mediocre service but the condiments they provide. In particular, the chili oil! Yes you heard me, the chili oil.



I have never been a chili aficionado and I think I am still far away from being called one. But my love and level of consumption of chili oil makes the hottest chili eaters raise an eyebrow not to mention service staff and other diners as well.

Pho House is thus far the best chili oil I have ever had. It’s crispy at same time slightly moist. There is a flavor play of spiciness and saltiness while packing a powerful punch. Careful though, premature swallowing may result in a coughing fit. So the best will be to chew the contents of the dish and the chili oil to allow the flavors to intertwine and mingle. Yum!

So why do I call myself strange probably if I describe you the scene. Picture me sitting alone over a bowl of beef noodles soup, sweat on my forehead, tears sneaking out of the corners of my eyes and my nose runny constantly sniffing to keep something foreign from leaking out. Not the best sight right but believe me I am enjoying and savoring.

M thirsty

Kwok Yuen & Wan Ling's Wedding Picks

So here is something new that I am trying out. Have a see. There are the first proper shots from the 50D with some editing more to recreate the mood.

M joy.

When does it end?

I have just stumbled upon a bunch of blog posts that were quite revealing or rather shall I say refreshing. Called the Business 360 by the good folks of CNN.com. The description about the blog is "CNN International's business anchors and correspondents get to grips with the issues affecting world business, and they want your questions and feedback". To be honest, I have had such a great time reading these blogs that I have decided to post a few extracts from some the blog, which talk about the nonsense that is taking place with our financial crisis and the slow realization that it not really about what we initially thought it was about.

Posted by: CNN business anchor, Maggie Lake: Greed and denial in the corner office

Her point was the fact that people, real people are suffering, under this financial crisis and the guys in the corner offices are still expecting their lives to be as per normal despite the fact that the people who put them in those corner offices are in fact the "real people" I was mentioning. To quote Maggie, “Investors can't make sense of the markets which swing wildly from day to day. Workers don't feel secure in their jobs. Families aren't sure how they are going to find the money for healthcare and education. There is a sense the system isn't working." And she went on say in contrast, "Auto executives are trying to hang on to their jobs and in some cases, multi-million dollar salaries, even as they beg for an 11th hour taxpayer lifeline. Monday, John Thain, CEO of Merrill Lynch, gave up attempts to get a $10 million 2008 bonus, but only after unflattering media attention."

She ended off by asking where all the good CEOs have gone, the guys who lead by example and the guys who are not afraid of being examples of real corporate leadership. I postulate; is this real corporate leadership is now about?

Another article by Maggie Lake: Have the automakers learnt their lesson?

My beloved former industry, these jokers first went to congress to ask for a bail out using the Federal Reserves. They went there with their private jets, and ended up getting critized by congress and the media. So upon the second attempt they decided to use that multi-million dollar earning brains of theirs and drive there instead. But rather than doing it sensibly, I felt that theier choice and means were a little too blatant and sarcastic. To rephrase Maggie, the 3 CEOs in questions from GM, Chrysler and Ford this time made their trips of Capitol Hill in their company's hybrid cars and they said they will lower their salaries to one dollar if they are allowed federal aid. Do they guys then really need the requested bail outs?
There are more articles on the site about the subject and to me Maggie Lake and the other correspondents have given us an adulterated and frank view which I believe has been missing. So do take a trip there to Business 360 for a delightful read.

In summary, I guess and my wife knows this all too well, I think the financial crisis is due to these jokers who have lost the plots to greed. To be brutally honest I think they need to be "saved". Indeed some grace is what they need and I think if that was done, the world will be a better place. So is Grace the answer? ; To me the answer is a resolute YES!

M hopeful

Why the 5 year wait?

This was a question that came up over the weekend, a few times. A blissful weekend spent at The Beaufort in Sentosa. We have always wanted to make the quick trip there for a weekend getaway but it proved to be a little nonsensical since it was not really away to say the least. I mean its Sentosa. So we never made the trek there for a weekend break instead we looked overseas and after considering the hassles and the possible need to take leave the idea died down.

But this weekend there was refreshing break and I have to say much needed. Best part of it, it was so convienent and even though we were in Sentosa and could be home in 30 mins, not venturing back to the mainisland during the weekend made the trip "feel" like we were well and truly away. There was little to do, but that is the case, for these sorta of weekend breaks. Lounging by the pool, catching up on some reading, and basically just relaxing and soaking up the atomosphere was the order of the day. Although the first day was a "working" day the second day there was awesome and we got back to full charge after it.

Although our weekends are usually packed, we got to do this more often!

M charged!

Sandies of Love

One of the greatest ways to start my day is to have breakfast cooked by my one and only Siew Khee. The usual order of the day for breakfast is sandwiches (which I have come to call sandies). I simply love sandies, they are too me the best meal that anyone can have, IMHO. It does not happen every day though because of our early morning schedule and if she has been working the whole night before then it would be just cruel to expect a home prepared breaky. But when she has the time she will make something simple, like a humble peanut butter and jam sandwich.

Being the culinary master for oriental cooking and being one who loves to impress via the kitchen, when she has time and the mood she will prepare something extravagant and today was no exception. Today's sandies was pan fried chicken marinated with special sauce and of course garlic and with simple bread lovingly cushioned with a juicy tomato and the absolute necessity in all sandies, coriander! I am sure there was more in that sandie but these are the flavours that still linger in my mind and mouth.

To me, honestly, they are filled with flavour and that extra special ingredient called love. There is nothing like food prepared from the heart where the eater is put first. Nowhere in this world can you find such cooking for any price except in a home!

M blessed - it took great control to stop eating and take pictures

Birthday, Wedding and Resort Weekend!

This year's birthday was a special one. I shared this day with the wedding of two close friends. Since I recently got my new 50D, I thought it would be best if I put it to use to capture this momentous occasion. The day started early, with the wife heading to the bride's house and I over to the groom's house for the usual morning get together before setting off to the bride's place. As the day progressed the festivities reached a climax after the tea ceremonies were completed at both the bride's and groom's house we headed to Sentosa. At this point I think I got in around 600 shots. Yes a little excessive but hey that's me, when there is unlimited space and fast camera; trigger happiness is the way to go.

The night events were to start with the solemnization followed by dinner. After the solemnization I had enough of pictures (over 1,300 plus) and decided to put it away and enjoy the rest of the evening. It was a blast, everyone there had a great time as the star couple pulled off a great event! These are always good reasons to get plastered and I did, well not as bad as my own wedding night, but just enough to ensure that at the end of the night, Mr. and Mrs. Wong got back to their room safe and sound! And so began the relaxation portion of the weekend, doing not much but relaxing by the pool, eating, drinking and basically chilling out. What was really surprising was that within the hotel environment, you feel like you have left Singapore and the feel is truly like a resort island in Bali or someplace exotic!

Overall great weekend with good friends and more great memories into the mental scrapbook!

M relaxed!

Where art thou Squirrel

So today on my walk I was trying a few things out. Note this is actually my first time in a long time with a DSLR camera so my hands was becoming a little shaky from the weight but that is temporary. Of course with the "odds" against me I tried to be a NatGeo photographer and try to capture some "wildlife" shots. Here are the results



Aiya, missed the money shot!!



He is posturing... getting ready, aiya didn't set to high speed shooting. Doh!



This one the best, there one second gone the next. At this point of reviewing my pictures I was laughing at myself. Here is a guy, who in the morning on the way to work decides to take some "test shots" with the new camera. So I quickly get out my camera bag and start to pull equipment out from the dry cabinet. So with the work getup (ok casual friday not so bad), I decide to take a walk in the nearby Kent Ridge park and before you know it I am trying to snap these squirrels much to the amusement of the aunties and uncles with their grandkids out for a morning stroll.

So how did YOU start your day today?

M laughing @ self.

Random Image #2

First of many from the 50, this one was one of the first pictures I took this morning. Actually the 4th to be honest and I am quite pleased with the result and contrasting colors. What is probably not evident because Blogger puts images with crappy resolution is that there is an ant on the leaf to the bottom left and a ladybird on the flower to the bottom right (to see more clearly click the image for a larger view) .

M

D Soixante - Cinquante D

As most of you probably know by now I am a photography buff. I started this "habit" for almost 12 years now and it has added much to my life, in terms of joy as a hobby and as a means for me to express myself. Around 6 years ago I bought a D60 which was at that time a close to the top range digital SLR camera. At that time, SLR means film and the use of the digital medium in SLR was only reserved to the professionals. So I forked out what would be an exorbitant amount for camera these days for my beloved D60. There DSLR acronym had not even been coined yet.

This camera became almost like an appendage to my body. It followed me everywhere, everywhere that was practical lah. We have shared many life changing images and seen the world through a different set of eyes. We have basically grown together and it has allowed me to use this medium as a language to communicate. But the D60 which still takes great pictures till today and I can boldly say out take some of the newer cameras in the market needed to be updated. I mean 6 years in terms of digital technology is an eon. So the wife (who shall always be worshipped like a deity) has done the amazing and got me a new appendage!!! (see above picture sequence).

She did all the research necessary, with help of some friends (thanks to all) and arrived at what I would call the perfect present. She has always had a great knack for it and she has outdone herself this time. Enter the 50D. This fellow is a monster of a camera and based on the first few shots, it is a going to be a love affair. Coupled with a new lens which was sorely needed I am ready to go out and get some amazing shots for the rest of you to enjoy.

M Canoned.

INFJ ENFP MBTI

Ok stop looking at the title and read lah. If you are not familiar with MBTI personalities this would be a doosy.

I recently, actually earlier today, took the MBTI and discovered something; my personality has changed well somewhat.

I used to be a INFJ which basically works out to being introvert, intuitive, feeling and judging (doesn't mean judgemental ah) persona. The first few times I took this test I found myself falling into this category.

But now several years down the road, ENFP I have become. This one is extrovert, N,F, perceiving persona. Why the shift? I guess it was something I sort of forced myself to become.

I to E - this has been the most dramatic transformation for me. The willingness to step out. This decision has resulted in me being where I am in my career and most importantly to have met my wife!

The day I told myself "Marcel, you have to put yourself out there and take hold of all that life has to offer rather than allowing it past me by". Basically to seize the day and live life to it's fullest!

J to P - this one was not intentional but I guess life forces us to become perceives if life is lived experientially. With a motto like "Live life to it's fullest" it can only be done experientially and to take advantage off that, living by perception than in a conclusive way is necessary thus explaining the shift.

Overall to me it's positive affirmation that I am growing and we all need to keep growing. Life's a journey, not a destination!

M livin

December Flows

As the year winds down, the month of December is my favourite of all the 12. It's the most stress free month. Most businesses are in low key mode and the whole mood is festive.

It's also a transitionary and somewhat reflective period for most people as they end of the year and their sights turn towards the new year.

Personally, best of all, December is when we celebrate my birthday. I take birthdays quite seriously not because we a year older but wiser and more experienced. Presents are great too! 50D hehehe!

Then there is Christmas it's a great holiday I am sure all will agree. Yes more pressies! And after all the festivities it's time to welcome the new year. Technically that's no longer in December of course but who counting the days of December......it just flows!

M loving it

Where have I heard that before?

A top 10 of irritating expressions has been compiled by researchers at Oxford University. I was kind if surprised to see the list and found it fairly unique. I personally try to formulate my sentences such that they are pleasing to the ear. With all due respect if it sounds nice and good to you, then it works; come on it's not rocket science. I used to get very irritated with people who butcher the English language using incorrect grammar and pronunciation, it's a nightmare! I used to heard it almost 24/7, so much so that I eventually became immune to it. At the end of the day, the world is becoming smaller and purist like me shouldn't of be so unforgiving to new learners of the tongue. At this moment in time, I am trying to learn French and I am sure at some point I am butchering this language of romance, but to be honest, I absolutely love it. Oh before I forget below is the list of the top 10 of irritating expressions as compiled by researchers at Oxford University:

The top ten most irritating phrases:

1 - At the end of the day

2 - Fairly unique

3 - I personally

4 - At this moment in time

5 - With all due respect

6 - Absolutely

7 - It's a nightmare

8 - Shouldn't of

9 - 24/7

10 - It's not rocket science

M hoping this made you laugh.

The 3 stooges

It has been a while since I have punched in some keys to a post, been busy or rather unmotivated. Not just to blog, but to do pretty much anything, well except for watching my comfort food lah. The past week has been one interesting week for me. It has been a rather pressurising week work wise, more than usual. I do not usually succumb to the daily pressures of work and whatever, but there are days or rather weeks when the accumulation adds up and I succumb like everyone else and become a different person…well a bit more like my old self actually. It's good that I am so familiar with myself now that I know when to do the needful when I get to this stage, well there are 3 stages to be exact. Well they are stooges really, because they are like 3 different people. Read on..It's going to be a long one.

1^st stage – Impatience
Usually manifests itself on the road on the way to work. Well I am normally rather unforgiving to other stupid road users and some "personified road hazards" but when I am in this stage, I become the embodiment of a road hazard. I will get honked at more frequently because I cut some off too close or refuse to give way to someone else and basically become a big Meany on the road. Being a normally, patient person, no really, I do not get impatient with other things, it just manifests on the road.

2^nd Stage – Cynicism and Snappishness
OK, I do know that I am a sarcastic person, blame it on growing up around people who are English powerhouses and who are quick to comment on basically anything, but I am self confessed person of the sarcastic inclination. However, add a little pent up frustration and unhandled stress my normally harmless and sometimes humorous sarcasm turns into downright cynicism. I start to have a problem with everything, and I mean everything. The negativity exudes and I have a beef with everyone except the wife of course. She is in a different and untouchable league but she becomes the sounding board of all this crap and she, poor girl, has to listen to the ranting. She is never the subject of the rant but she can become the innocent by stander.

3^rd Stage – Retreat
The final stage. I am still trying to figure exactly what this stage is all about. What happens here is that I become quiet and reclusive. The stress level is at maximum at this point and there is no point engaging in witty conversations or discussion because it is likely to become heated, anger driven and personal. So the best thing to do is shut up and not say anything; because it is going to be hurtful. I am thankful somewhat for this stage that I have inbuilt within myself. Previously this will be typified as rage and mayhem, but that is gone now. Praise the Lord!! So I have this defense mechanism if you want to call it. When I get to this stage I become unreachable and the person that suffers (hmm OK that is a bit strong word to use) the most is my dear wife, because I know she needs me be the pillar that I usually am.

Solution: Yes there is one. Luckily or perhaps I should say Gracefully. Take a break from work; a day is all I need, sometimes even half day can oso, to spend alone preferably, soul searching and seeking that which is greater than ALL things, J he that has ears to hear let him hear. After that without a doubt I am good as new, or should I say old. Back to the old trusty pillar, that ya'll have come to love.

M back to old.

Sound of Slience

Due to some circumstances, I am working from home today.

One thing I love about living where we are living is the ambient noise. Right now I hear the whirring sound of my overhead fan, the occasional chirping bird and the sound of crickets. I think that is true bliss is urban Singapore to be able to hear such silence and be so peaceful!

It maybe far from everywhere but this is home.

M wfh.

Laughter is the Best Medicine

There is nothing like having a good laugh. There are a few things that can make me actually laugh out loud. So when I find something that does that to me, I save them. Today, is one of those days when a good laugh is required.

So here is a little clip that I like to watch of the outgoing POTUS, that never fails to crack me up.



M Laughing out loud

Who, what, where??

Being caught off guard is something I really hate (see above picture). I mean everyone does but it has been happening to me more often these past few days. So the stress + frustration level has been higher than my initial expectation when Sunday turned into Monday. All I can say, is that I am glad we are in the better part of week and I pray that its going to downhill from here on in. One thing to look forward to is a makan session with my team, who are a bag of laughs and always do things to crack me up. Thank God for them!!

M working for the weekend.

Favourite Spot

So as to further drive the point of me being a couch potato, I am going to show ya'll my favourite spot at home. Yes it is the couch, as pictured. Its cumfy and it is the place where I am the most secure at home. When I have had a hard day at work, there is no other way for me to unwind than to sit here, and either watch some TV or surf the Internet. Wait, wait…. avert your thoughts of slobbish disgust; my TV is my computer, literally. I have hooked up my computer to our 27-inch LCD so I have a mega monitor. So this is not just a "watch TV" place, but a place to work, blog, edit my pictures, download stuff, surf, listen to music and of course to watch TV.

M lovin it

One Minute Writer

I recently started following a blog called the One Minute Writer. I found the concept rather interesting. I think we all have at some point had a prompting to write something, it could have started with writing in a diary about the day's events or could have been random notes jotted down somewhere. I used to love to write down these thoughts when I was on the bus but since I drive that opportunity has gone but the love of writing is still there and inspiration is everywhere.

So back to the One Minute Writer; what it does is that it gives a daily prompt and from this prompt we are to write whatever within one minute, if you take longer go ahead. The idea is to get the words flowing. If it lasts a minute so be it, if it lasts an hour, then it does ya. The adage is "You have 1440 minutes a day. Use one of them to write".

M writing

Coffee Convert

I have always disliked the idea of paying 5 bucks for a cup of coffee. I just found the idea of it ridiculous when for 70 or 80 cents you can get some damn good traditional coffee.

That's the other thing our beloved Kopi, Kopi-O Kosong, etc have now been compartmentalised as traditional coffee. And the Lattes, Flat White, Espresso are now called designer coffee. Sheesh.
But when I went to study in Oz, designer coffee was the only option we had there so eventually I started to appreciate it.

After starting my current job for more than a year now. I have been utterly converted. Presenting Nespresso!

For the informed this is an über range of coffee machines and coffees from Europe which has recently been introduced in SG to much raving.

Yes we have a machine in the office and the coffee is FREE! What's more, recently we got a free machine upgrade to this Sci-Fi looking baby that blows the regular coffee drinker away. It make perfect coffees every time. I now need at least 3-4 shots of coffee a day. Convert now or slave? Convert lah, I still have my beloved Kopi on weekends.

M caffeinated.