It's a funny quip from one of my favourite comedians, Russell Peters. He was referring to the 'Indian Pride' in being called 'cheap'. Heh heh, you gotta love him.
But there is some truth in that statement because sometimes being cheap is being smart. And yes, I hate being called cheap. Which is probably why I'm not rolling in cash right now neither. I love the luxury of saying, "Keep the change" or telling friends, "This round's on me." Ah but times are hard indeed. So much so that I demand my 5 sen change whenever I dine at Upperstar (who, by the way, are ALWAYS out of 5 sen coins and expect you to say 'Keep the change' just because it's 5 sen. And that irritates me to high hell, resulting in me insisting on that measly 5 sen on the basis of principle - if you rip off 100 people, that's RM5.00 a day, which is RM150.00 a month. Pencuri. Wtf. There. Rant over)
Back to the topic of 'hard times'. We all know the economy is in a slump. And you know the whole 'money doesn't grow on trees' thing. An extra whammy this year for me would be the wedding. Now, don't get me wrong, I'm coated in wedded bliss but let's face it: Weddings aren't easy on the pocket and it's getting worse with each year. Within 12 months, the hotel reception cost has gone up by 20 percent at my chosen venue. I suggested having the banquet at the parking lot but the acoustics suck. Heh.
So in these tight-fisted times, I've had to make some 'smarter/cheaper' choices in my life. At least until the wedding is done. Every penny (well, 85 percent anyway) goes to the wedding at the moment and the thing about planning a wedding is everytime you think you have the budget sorted out, something else will bite you in the wallet. So here are Mel's Spend-Savvy Ideas To Avoid Living In A Cardboard Box:
1. Pack your lunch. It's so elementary but in today's world of 'tapau', we choose convenience over cost any day. But, seeing I'm no longer in a 9 to 5 routine, I've saved more eating at home or grabbing a sandwich before I go to a meeting, instead of finding an excuse to eat after the meeting. I try not to meet prospective clients over meals and opt for quick bites or coffee. Not only is it penny-saving, it's also good time management.
2. Cut down on the booze. I must admit when I was working with my previous company, Happy Hours were such a norm. And an excuse to sit out the traffic jam. And more often than not, Happy Hours would drag on till midnight on most days which meant more drinks. I now limit myself to one session a week and to be honest, I've gone more than 2 weeks without a drink. If you know me at all, that's like Lady Gaga saying, "And I wore normal clothes everyday". And let's face it, it's a much healthier lifestyle.
3. Stay away, ye evil shopping mall. This one is tough but I'm doing okay. I love shopping. LOVE it. And I'm not even picky. I get excited buying toothpaste. So to resist temptation, I stay away from retail outlets, even the 'pasar' in Lido. I only buy things when they are absolutely necessary (like that red handbag I bought in KL because it was 70 percent off - It called out my name). Whenever I walk past a shoe shop, I tell myself, "All in good time, my children."
4. Alternative entertainment. Like watching paint peel or 'Count how many Proton Wiras pass by in 60 seconds'. I'm kidding. When you're trying to save money, it's tough to find ways to entertain yourself without flipping out your wallet. My top three entertainment choices say it all: Dining out, going to the cinema and shopping. Unless I beg for food, sneak into the cinema and shoplift, it's all going to add up. Therefore, I've resorted to borrowing dvds from friends and relatives and watching old favourites from my collection - which is really quite fun. I read more. I write more. And I play online games. Sometimes, it really doesn't take much - for me anyway.
5. Exercise is free! Okay fine. I have a gym membership. That said, it is the only major 'gift' I have allowed myself to indulge in financially this year. So now, if I really feel the need to get out of the house, I know I can count on the gym. And it makes me feel good. There's something about an aching body and shortness of breath I find so endearing. Not. Seriously though, it really does keep me sane and hopefully in shape for the wedding. Doesn't help it's right next to a mall though...Ah well.
And should temptation ever knock on my door, I quickly visualise walking down the aisle in my mum's curtains and serving Maggi Mee to my guests ("Chicken or Laksa?"). Wish me luck.
Monday, March 22, 2010
Sunday, March 14, 2010
Low fat is phat.
In my quest to look half decent on my wedding day, I've been hitting the gym (not as tough as I thought it would be) and watching my food (tougher than I thought). For Christmas, my parents got me a low-fat cookbook and although I was insulted for a nanosecond, it turned out to be one of the best presents.
With more time on my hands, I've been tapping into my inner Julia Childs and spending more time in the kitchen. Trying low-fat and low-carb recipes, of course. It's been good so far - chicken cacciatore, paprika chicken (gee I wonder what my favourite meat is), penne with tuna in tomato sauce and today's latest -banana oat muffins. Best thing is, I can enjoy them guilt-free. Well, unless I eat a whole pail of it.
Other updates? I'm sick again. I blame the weather. At least this time it's not the flu again. Just an annoying cough and plenty of sexy phlegm. I went to KL and got my wedding dress done. It should be ready by May - or else I'll be wearing white curtains down the aisle. Speaking of which, my pre-wedding photos have arrived but I can only offer this sneak peek:
Anna-Rina did a fantastic job but my only dissatisfaction is my weight issue in the photos. We took these back in January and at the peak of my 'chubbiness'. Which is why this shot above is one of my favourites, haha. At least my ankles look in shape. Three months to go!
With more time on my hands, I've been tapping into my inner Julia Childs and spending more time in the kitchen. Trying low-fat and low-carb recipes, of course. It's been good so far - chicken cacciatore, paprika chicken (gee I wonder what my favourite meat is), penne with tuna in tomato sauce and today's latest -banana oat muffins. Best thing is, I can enjoy them guilt-free. Well, unless I eat a whole pail of it.
Other updates? I'm sick again. I blame the weather. At least this time it's not the flu again. Just an annoying cough and plenty of sexy phlegm. I went to KL and got my wedding dress done. It should be ready by May - or else I'll be wearing white curtains down the aisle. Speaking of which, my pre-wedding photos have arrived but I can only offer this sneak peek:
Anna-Rina did a fantastic job but my only dissatisfaction is my weight issue in the photos. We took these back in January and at the peak of my 'chubbiness'. Which is why this shot above is one of my favourites, haha. At least my ankles look in shape. Three months to go!
Sunday, February 28, 2010
The Invention of Lying
You know how you stumble upon a movie every once in a while that makes you go "Oh wow" even after the credits have finished rolling?
That's what this movie did for me.
First of all, I've never been a big fan of Ricky Gervais so I was prepared to be annoyed for the next hour and a half. But that's where my expectations ended. See, the beauty of a little known movie as opposed to something like...Avatar...is that you don't have your expectations set high. Therefore, it's hard to be disappointed. That said, it doesn't guarantee you'll be satisfied.
But i digress.
If there was one movie that you must watch this year (ok so it's only March but you get the point), it would be The Invention of Lying. First off, I can't rave enough about the originality of the idea: Imagine a world where nobody lies and then suddenly, the first lie ever is told. The story snowballs into a spectacular chain of events set in a surreal world of complete trustworthiness. Not that you can blame everyone for being a schmuck because, hey, nobody ever lies! Team that idea with an amazing cast that includes Ricky Gervais (who co-wrote the story with Matthew Robinson), a doe-eyed Jennifer Garner, self-indulgent Rob Lowe and the comedic prowess of Tina Fey. And the script is pure gold. I love the bluntness of the characters, who are completely devoid of social graces and tells everything as it is ("I'm sorry I took a while answering the door. I was masturbating.")
Entertainment aside, the movie leaves you thinking about truths and lies. Sometimes the worst lies we can tell are the ones we tell ourselves - which is just a stone's throw away to the island of Denial. Why is it so difficult to be true to ourselves? And why do we care so much what other people think? Especially when YOUR happiness should be YOUR responsibility. Like, so what if I like the colour pink? It's pukey and girly to some but it looks damn good to me. And yes, so maybe I'd rather pick up a copy of Cosmo and not National Geographic sometimes - Doesn't make me less 'academic'. Works the other way too - I like watching The Second World War special on the History Channel instead of HBO on some days. We all put up fronts to impress sometimes, or even to appear less intimidating. I'll be the first to admit it. But it does get tiring and that's when I feel like telling people to get lost and leave me and pink copy of Cosmo alone while I watch the History Channel.
That said, go catch this movie. Love it.
That's what this movie did for me.
First of all, I've never been a big fan of Ricky Gervais so I was prepared to be annoyed for the next hour and a half. But that's where my expectations ended. See, the beauty of a little known movie as opposed to something like...Avatar...is that you don't have your expectations set high. Therefore, it's hard to be disappointed. That said, it doesn't guarantee you'll be satisfied.
But i digress.
If there was one movie that you must watch this year (ok so it's only March but you get the point), it would be The Invention of Lying. First off, I can't rave enough about the originality of the idea: Imagine a world where nobody lies and then suddenly, the first lie ever is told. The story snowballs into a spectacular chain of events set in a surreal world of complete trustworthiness. Not that you can blame everyone for being a schmuck because, hey, nobody ever lies! Team that idea with an amazing cast that includes Ricky Gervais (who co-wrote the story with Matthew Robinson), a doe-eyed Jennifer Garner, self-indulgent Rob Lowe and the comedic prowess of Tina Fey. And the script is pure gold. I love the bluntness of the characters, who are completely devoid of social graces and tells everything as it is ("I'm sorry I took a while answering the door. I was masturbating.")
Entertainment aside, the movie leaves you thinking about truths and lies. Sometimes the worst lies we can tell are the ones we tell ourselves - which is just a stone's throw away to the island of Denial. Why is it so difficult to be true to ourselves? And why do we care so much what other people think? Especially when YOUR happiness should be YOUR responsibility. Like, so what if I like the colour pink? It's pukey and girly to some but it looks damn good to me. And yes, so maybe I'd rather pick up a copy of Cosmo and not National Geographic sometimes - Doesn't make me less 'academic'. Works the other way too - I like watching The Second World War special on the History Channel instead of HBO on some days. We all put up fronts to impress sometimes, or even to appear less intimidating. I'll be the first to admit it. But it does get tiring and that's when I feel like telling people to get lost and leave me and pink copy of Cosmo alone while I watch the History Channel.
That said, go catch this movie. Love it.
Monday, February 01, 2010
Still.
It lingers, it stays
It does not go away
The winter chill in spring
The numbness and the sting.
It stirs, it calls
The rise and the fall
It grabs from within
The promises, the sin.
It waits, it appears
The months and the years
The ebb and the flow
Of where it must go.
It comes but it goes
And nobody knows
Be still.
At will.
It does not go away
The winter chill in spring
The numbness and the sting.
It stirs, it calls
The rise and the fall
It grabs from within
The promises, the sin.
It waits, it appears
The months and the years
The ebb and the flow
Of where it must go.
It comes but it goes
And nobody knows
Be still.
At will.
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
All the small things.
It's been said time and time again but we seldom take notice. When you're with someone, it really is the little things. Forget the grand gestures of flowers, expensive jewellery and saying the obvious ("Wow, you look gorgeous" - um, duh). There are a few things I truly take note of when dating a guy and, while to each his own, I think it's a pretty good gauge of character.
1. Punctuality. I'm not a stickler for being there on the dot; I am Malaysian after all. But there's a difference between being ten minutes late and being half an hour late. A guy who shows up on time means what he says and say what he means. 7pm is 7pm. Hence, "I really want to make this work" means just that. Oh and minus points for not apologising for being late. How rude.
2. When he drops you off, he waits till you get inside safely. This I can attest to. The guys who actually drove off the minute I stepped out of the car turned out to be jerks and the guys who waited for me to give a little wave before I closed the door behind me were keepers. Lesson: If he can't spare a few seconds to ensure you're not abducted by aliens as you walk to your door, he really can't care less.
3.He's nice to the waiters. He can be a charmer in seven languages when wooing you but a real gem is nice to everyone. I knew a smooth-talker who de-charmed himself by being a complete ass to the wait staff. Selective manners? I don't think so.
4. He doesn't like animals. I dunno. There's just something untrustworthy about people who don't like animals. You don't have to be a zookeeper but shoving your boot at an innocent stray cat says a lot about a man. That was one short date.
5. Animals don't like him. If Sparky doesn't like him, neither will your grandma. Trust me on this.
6. He's cheap. When I say cheap, I don't mean he orders the cheapest wine on the menu. I mean, he makes you pay for your own Teh C (which, even in these hard economic times, costs less than RM2.00). Or when he takes you out for dinner, his idea of 'a really special night out' means a Snack Plate at KFC. And after you give him your share when the bill comes (because you generously offered, of course), he reminds you, "Oh there's service tax." I'm not saying it's' all about the money. You know that parable in the Bible about the poor woman who had nothing and yet she gave her last penny to help someone? While the super loaded guy on his high and mighty donkey gave a bigger amount, thinking he was 'da man'? My point is, you need to date someone like the poor woman. It wasn't much but she gave her all.
7. He remembers. All sorts of stuff. Your favourite color. That embarrassing story when you were sixteen. Your aversion to olives. The attention to detail means he's listening. Definitely a good thing.`
I remember once when Haw picked me up in his vintage Toyota on a Sunday morning and he had placed a colourful pareo on the PVC seats. I asked him, "What's this for?" And he said, "It's a hot day and the seat gets really hot. I know you hate that so I covered it up for you."
It's the small things, I tell you.
1. Punctuality. I'm not a stickler for being there on the dot; I am Malaysian after all. But there's a difference between being ten minutes late and being half an hour late. A guy who shows up on time means what he says and say what he means. 7pm is 7pm. Hence, "I really want to make this work" means just that. Oh and minus points for not apologising for being late. How rude.
2. When he drops you off, he waits till you get inside safely. This I can attest to. The guys who actually drove off the minute I stepped out of the car turned out to be jerks and the guys who waited for me to give a little wave before I closed the door behind me were keepers. Lesson: If he can't spare a few seconds to ensure you're not abducted by aliens as you walk to your door, he really can't care less.
3.He's nice to the waiters. He can be a charmer in seven languages when wooing you but a real gem is nice to everyone. I knew a smooth-talker who de-charmed himself by being a complete ass to the wait staff. Selective manners? I don't think so.
4. He doesn't like animals. I dunno. There's just something untrustworthy about people who don't like animals. You don't have to be a zookeeper but shoving your boot at an innocent stray cat says a lot about a man. That was one short date.
5. Animals don't like him. If Sparky doesn't like him, neither will your grandma. Trust me on this.
6. He's cheap. When I say cheap, I don't mean he orders the cheapest wine on the menu. I mean, he makes you pay for your own Teh C (which, even in these hard economic times, costs less than RM2.00). Or when he takes you out for dinner, his idea of 'a really special night out' means a Snack Plate at KFC. And after you give him your share when the bill comes (because you generously offered, of course), he reminds you, "Oh there's service tax." I'm not saying it's' all about the money. You know that parable in the Bible about the poor woman who had nothing and yet she gave her last penny to help someone? While the super loaded guy on his high and mighty donkey gave a bigger amount, thinking he was 'da man'? My point is, you need to date someone like the poor woman. It wasn't much but she gave her all.
7. He remembers. All sorts of stuff. Your favourite color. That embarrassing story when you were sixteen. Your aversion to olives. The attention to detail means he's listening. Definitely a good thing.`
I remember once when Haw picked me up in his vintage Toyota on a Sunday morning and he had placed a colourful pareo on the PVC seats. I asked him, "What's this for?" And he said, "It's a hot day and the seat gets really hot. I know you hate that so I covered it up for you."
It's the small things, I tell you.
Friday, January 22, 2010
The skinny on skinny.
It was 25 minutes into my treadmill session -somewhere between "Oh my God I can't feel my legs" and "My heart's going to explode into a million pieces"- when she walked into the gym in her skinny gloriousness. Actually, the first thing I noticed was her long, wavy hair bouncing around her shoulders and I thought,"Go tie your hair, woman. That is SO not practical in a gym." And then of course, my eyes glazed momentarily over her ridiculously tiny waistline and legs which seemed to go on forever. The gaze of the male crowd lingered a bit longer as she made her way to the treadmill beside mine and I swear she smelled like strawberries. Her arms were gazelle-like. She was just skinny. Skinny, skinny, skinny. The kind that even if you threw a lump of fat on, it would just slide off her. And so I watched her from the corner of my eye as she ran. Even her run looked 'skinny', as if she was going to sprout wings and suddenly flutter off into the night. The crazy woman didn't even seem to break sweat. And there we were, side by side. I looked at our reflection and how I was the anti-skinny in a world of skinny, a tinge of envy creeping in. And then I realised, as I stared at her bony butt...
I didn't want to be skinny.
Where was the fun in skinny? Even the word 'skinny' was unsexy - Why would I want to associate myself with the epidermis? No, a 20-inch waist was not the solution, at least not for me. And my legs were never built for hot pants and heels. Plus my boobs would look ridiculous on a rack of bones. No. I didn't want to be skinny. As I pushed myself to run faster and harder, I caught a glimpse of Skinny in the reflection again, her wavy hair bouncing around her Skeletor shoulders, and realised that I could look better than skinny. I could look stronger. I had enough meat on my body to cushion my ass if I fell off the treadmill, that's for sure. I didn't want to be skinny. I could never be skinny. Instead, I wanted to be stronger. Solid. Abs of steel. Okay, and a really nice ass you could bounce a coin off.
And so Skinny hit the showers after her 15-minute 'run' while I continued to slowly die doing crunches. Hell, I gave up on the Skinny Dream ages ago. My body isn't built for that. And you know what? Thank God it isn't.
I didn't want to be skinny.
Where was the fun in skinny? Even the word 'skinny' was unsexy - Why would I want to associate myself with the epidermis? No, a 20-inch waist was not the solution, at least not for me. And my legs were never built for hot pants and heels. Plus my boobs would look ridiculous on a rack of bones. No. I didn't want to be skinny. As I pushed myself to run faster and harder, I caught a glimpse of Skinny in the reflection again, her wavy hair bouncing around her Skeletor shoulders, and realised that I could look better than skinny. I could look stronger. I had enough meat on my body to cushion my ass if I fell off the treadmill, that's for sure. I didn't want to be skinny. I could never be skinny. Instead, I wanted to be stronger. Solid. Abs of steel. Okay, and a really nice ass you could bounce a coin off.
And so Skinny hit the showers after her 15-minute 'run' while I continued to slowly die doing crunches. Hell, I gave up on the Skinny Dream ages ago. My body isn't built for that. And you know what? Thank God it isn't.
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
What's new, pussycat?
Black coffee with sugar.
Chardonnay, instead of Merlot.
Purple eyeliner.
A run in the morning.
Breakfast at an unknown coffee shop.
Sometimes you just have to try something out of the ordinary and see what's out there.
Which is why I'm going to attend a bread-making class today. So, have YOU tried something new?
Chardonnay, instead of Merlot.
Purple eyeliner.
A run in the morning.
Breakfast at an unknown coffee shop.
Sometimes you just have to try something out of the ordinary and see what's out there.
Which is why I'm going to attend a bread-making class today. So, have YOU tried something new?
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
Write.
Ok, so according a writing exercise I've been working on, I have to write everyday. Even if it's a one liner. Even if I don't have a single, coherent idea in my mind. And now, as I am multi-tasking with the TV blaring in the background and half-listening to my mum reminding me to do something (I'll ask her again later, it sounded important), I'm trying to write. Whatever comes to mind. Let' see.
I am the same height as Kylie Minogue.
Absolutely random. Writing done.
I am the same height as Kylie Minogue.
Absolutely random. Writing done.
Monday, December 28, 2009
Mel's masak moments
In the kitchen. Who would've thought I'd be spending more time with pots and pans instead of pints and pals these days? There is something therapeutic about being in the kitchen, trying to
get the flavours right, making sure you don't slice your fingers off along with the onions and sweating over a hot stove - literally. And being the not-so-experienced cook, it's a whole new world of trial and error (read: trying not to burn the kitchen down). It's stressful but in a good way, making sure your 'diners' aren't cringing or choking as they take a bite.
I will be the first to admit I am not a natural in the kitchen. My idea of cooking usually revolves around 'just add water' and 'microwave for three minutes'. But with my newfound free time thanks to less office hours, I find myself gravitating to the kitchen (ok, so maybe I've always been gravitating towards the kitchen but not necessarily to cook!). On days like today, when I'm all 'pubbed'-out ('tis the season and all that) and there's no one to hang out with, I just turn to my cookbooks -yes, you read that right- and see what I can whip up. Pasta and chicken have been my best bets to date but not so much on fish and seafood (cleaning and preparing fish ranks high on my 'Eww' Factor, sorry). I'm planning on baking muffins next week and I'm half expecting a disaster but you never know. I'm not going to be the next Martha Stewart but at least my future family will be able to enjoy meals other than spaghetti from a can or instant noodles.
Oh and you know what else is great about cooking? It actually kills your appetite, so here's the lesson: when you feed others, you stop feeding yourself. Genius!
Saturday, December 26, 2009
Ho ho mojo.
Yes, another 'tis the season post. More like post-tis-the-season-post. As I unwind from days of non-stop Christmas shopping, paper cuts from wrapping gifts and one too many roast chickens (my family doesn't do turkey), I'm taking the time to savour the spirit of the season and reflect on what an improvement this year has been.
Christmas is an interesting time of the year and although I'd be lying if I didn't say I loooove getting presents, Christmas is also a time of thanksgiving, epiphanies and revelations. This year, it has been a pleasant surprise to hear from friends whom I have not been in touch with for ages. On the flip side, I've also come to terms with the fact that I have to let go of certain connections in my life - and it really isn't such a bad thing. I am blessed with the people who ARE in my life and content with the fact that people, friendships and seasons change.
With five days to go to 2010, I look back on the year and see how uplifting 2009 has been. Perhaps it's a good thing my 2008 was so sucky, or else I wouldn't appreciate how good the coming year would be! I still remember the best thing I heard on New Year's day this year: "This year is yours" and I think I made it my mantra. And in many ways, it has been. My boyfriend proposed at the beach, I bit the bullet and quit my 6-year-old job, I have more time to write and am learning how to run a family business. Oh and I'm becoming quite the kitchen queen. Ok, maybe I'm still at princess level but getting there.
The best part is, it just gets better next year. Merry Christmas and may the new year bring you all the good things you deserve.
Christmas is an interesting time of the year and although I'd be lying if I didn't say I loooove getting presents, Christmas is also a time of thanksgiving, epiphanies and revelations. This year, it has been a pleasant surprise to hear from friends whom I have not been in touch with for ages. On the flip side, I've also come to terms with the fact that I have to let go of certain connections in my life - and it really isn't such a bad thing. I am blessed with the people who ARE in my life and content with the fact that people, friendships and seasons change.
With five days to go to 2010, I look back on the year and see how uplifting 2009 has been. Perhaps it's a good thing my 2008 was so sucky, or else I wouldn't appreciate how good the coming year would be! I still remember the best thing I heard on New Year's day this year: "This year is yours" and I think I made it my mantra. And in many ways, it has been. My boyfriend proposed at the beach, I bit the bullet and quit my 6-year-old job, I have more time to write and am learning how to run a family business. Oh and I'm becoming quite the kitchen queen. Ok, maybe I'm still at princess level but getting there.
The best part is, it just gets better next year. Merry Christmas and may the new year bring you all the good things you deserve.
Thursday, November 26, 2009
Things that go lump in the night.
I've been trying to drift off for the last hour but all I do is listen to the whirring of the ceiling fan. No, I haven't been watching horror movies that give me sleepless nights. Again.
It's a lump. And God forbid I be dramatic about it but if you knew me better...Here comes the drama.
Everybody's telling me it's nothing. I've even been told it could be a lump of fat, seeing I've put on weight (nice. two blows). Or maybe I should massage it away. And, hey, it's not even that obvious.
I know that there's a 90 percent chance...No no....98 percent chance it really IS nothing. Just an extra mound of flesh inconveniently making its presence known on the lower end of my neck. It doesn't hurt. But I just wish it wasn't there. Can you blame me?
A lump. It's just a lump. I really am getting ahead of myself. I know everyone's trying to pooh-pooh it because maybe, just maybe, if everyone pooh-poohs enough, it won't even exist.
Except it's not growing on THEIR necks.
So yes, I'm going to let myself 'dramatize' this whole lump episode even though it's very likely it'll be gone in a few days. For starters, I'm getting it checked out tomorrow. And then I'm going to get a second opinion - preferably from a doctor who doesn't share my DNA just to be extra sure.
It's a lump. Just a lump. But if it turns out to be a lot more than a just a lump, I'm going to be very, very angry.
It's a lump. And God forbid I be dramatic about it but if you knew me better...Here comes the drama.
Everybody's telling me it's nothing. I've even been told it could be a lump of fat, seeing I've put on weight (nice. two blows). Or maybe I should massage it away. And, hey, it's not even that obvious.
I know that there's a 90 percent chance...No no....98 percent chance it really IS nothing. Just an extra mound of flesh inconveniently making its presence known on the lower end of my neck. It doesn't hurt. But I just wish it wasn't there. Can you blame me?
A lump. It's just a lump. I really am getting ahead of myself. I know everyone's trying to pooh-pooh it because maybe, just maybe, if everyone pooh-poohs enough, it won't even exist.
Except it's not growing on THEIR necks.
So yes, I'm going to let myself 'dramatize' this whole lump episode even though it's very likely it'll be gone in a few days. For starters, I'm getting it checked out tomorrow. And then I'm going to get a second opinion - preferably from a doctor who doesn't share my DNA just to be extra sure.
It's a lump. Just a lump. But if it turns out to be a lot more than a just a lump, I'm going to be very, very angry.
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Belly laugh.
You know what makes a good day? A heartfelt belly laugh that makes your sides ache and your eyes water. Here are my favourite belly laugh moments this week (bah, it might not make sense to everyone.Then again, humour is subjective no?)
1. Putting absurd lyrics to existing movie themes ie Jurassic Park ("I'm a dinosaur...I'm a dinosaur...") and Indiana Jones ( "Indianaaaa on a horse...Indianaaa, he can even do morse")
2. Will Ferrell's classic lines: "The last time I heard that joke, I laughed so hard I fell off my dinosaur!" and "San Diego is German for whale's vagina."
3. Conversation overheard at a DVD shop:
Man: Kamu ada wayang Dua Puluh Dua Belas? (literally, Twenty Twelve)
DVD seller: Adaaaaaa!
Man: Clear ka?
DVD seller: Ya ya clear! Baru dari panggung wayang ni (Fresh from the cinema).
Have you had a belly laugh lately?
1. Putting absurd lyrics to existing movie themes ie Jurassic Park ("I'm a dinosaur...I'm a dinosaur...") and Indiana Jones ( "Indianaaaa on a horse...Indianaaa, he can even do morse")
2. Will Ferrell's classic lines: "The last time I heard that joke, I laughed so hard I fell off my dinosaur!" and "San Diego is German for whale's vagina."
3. Conversation overheard at a DVD shop:
Man: Kamu ada wayang Dua Puluh Dua Belas? (literally, Twenty Twelve)
DVD seller: Adaaaaaa!
Man: Clear ka?
DVD seller: Ya ya clear! Baru dari panggung wayang ni (Fresh from the cinema).
Have you had a belly laugh lately?
Thursday, November 12, 2009
The Mel-isms of Travel
It's so cliched but sometimes you need to get away to discover yourself. Travelling reveals more about yourself than you'd like to know, truth be told. I was in Bangkok recently and although I was with my brother and a colleague, I spent plenty of quality time with myself most of the days. So here's what I've noticed:
1. I always choose the aisle seat in an airplane. I don't care much for legroom seeing my hobbit-like stature doesn't require much, but I am particular about easy access. I hate sheepishly tapping the person beside me - who is already in deep slumber judging by the gurgling sounds he's making - to make way for me to use the lavatory. But I totally don't mind giving way to him if he needs to use the toilet for the 567th time. Translated: I'm a people-pleaser, even at the cost of my convenience. Okay everyone...Can you spell "Doormat?"
2. I check to see if my boarding pass and passport are with me every 5 minutes. I am paranoid. I get sweaty palms just thinking about misplacing them. Translated: Pa-ra-noid.
3. If I'm not sharing a hotel room, I sleep with the TV on. Translated: I may be 30 but I'm still as chicken shit as they come. For the past week I've been falling asleep to the sounds of Oprah and Everybody Loves Raymond. Oh and I check the drawers for a bible, just in case.
4. I like nice, fancy restaurants but I'll order the cheapest thing on the menu. I love my red wine but it doesn't have to be vintage. I heart air-conditioned places because they're comfy but I don't need the best seat in the room. Translated: My tastes aren't cheap but my style is thrifty, haha.
5. I'm perfectly okay spending the afternoon in my hotel room, enjoying a bubble bath while watching in-house movies. Translated: I really should be more adventurous but sometimes 'boring' beats 'adventurous'. Especially when you have a nice hotel room.
6. I love discovering new sights and cultures but I get bummed when I realise he's not there to share it with me. Translated: You can send me on a round trip around the world but where's the fun in it without having someone to share it with? I'm sorry, I don't do solo travelling very well.
7. I study maps, take note of landmarks, learn helpful foreign phrases and carry allergy/food poisoning/migraine pills in my backpack. And two types of mints. Just in case. Translated: I like to overprepare because I hate being underprepared. I don't 'wing it' and I certainly don't hitch hike. Yes, I am as predictable as they come but I'm working on loosening up. Just a little.
and finally
8. I always break into a smile when the plane touches down on homeground. Don't take me wrong, I love travelling but it's a wonderful feeling coming home to something familiar. Translated: Does that make me a bad traveller? No. I just know where I belong.
1. I always choose the aisle seat in an airplane. I don't care much for legroom seeing my hobbit-like stature doesn't require much, but I am particular about easy access. I hate sheepishly tapping the person beside me - who is already in deep slumber judging by the gurgling sounds he's making - to make way for me to use the lavatory. But I totally don't mind giving way to him if he needs to use the toilet for the 567th time. Translated: I'm a people-pleaser, even at the cost of my convenience. Okay everyone...Can you spell "Doormat?"
2. I check to see if my boarding pass and passport are with me every 5 minutes. I am paranoid. I get sweaty palms just thinking about misplacing them. Translated: Pa-ra-noid.
3. If I'm not sharing a hotel room, I sleep with the TV on. Translated: I may be 30 but I'm still as chicken shit as they come. For the past week I've been falling asleep to the sounds of Oprah and Everybody Loves Raymond. Oh and I check the drawers for a bible, just in case.
4. I like nice, fancy restaurants but I'll order the cheapest thing on the menu. I love my red wine but it doesn't have to be vintage. I heart air-conditioned places because they're comfy but I don't need the best seat in the room. Translated: My tastes aren't cheap but my style is thrifty, haha.
5. I'm perfectly okay spending the afternoon in my hotel room, enjoying a bubble bath while watching in-house movies. Translated: I really should be more adventurous but sometimes 'boring' beats 'adventurous'. Especially when you have a nice hotel room.
6. I love discovering new sights and cultures but I get bummed when I realise he's not there to share it with me. Translated: You can send me on a round trip around the world but where's the fun in it without having someone to share it with? I'm sorry, I don't do solo travelling very well.
7. I study maps, take note of landmarks, learn helpful foreign phrases and carry allergy/food poisoning/migraine pills in my backpack. And two types of mints. Just in case. Translated: I like to overprepare because I hate being underprepared. I don't 'wing it' and I certainly don't hitch hike. Yes, I am as predictable as they come but I'm working on loosening up. Just a little.
and finally
8. I always break into a smile when the plane touches down on homeground. Don't take me wrong, I love travelling but it's a wonderful feeling coming home to something familiar. Translated: Does that make me a bad traveller? No. I just know where I belong.
Tuesday, November 03, 2009
In the news.
Sometimes, you only need to flip the local dailies for entertainment.
Today, there was a public opinion piece on whether KK was ready for its very own LRT. It amazes me how optimistic our people are and although there is hope for us yet, I couldn't help but think, "Er, shouldn't they be working on the current transportation system?" Honestly, if buses here ran on schedule, taxis used meters and there were ACTUAL trains running on the tracks, I wouldn't mind using the public transportation at all. And let's face it, KK is a Ten-Minute city. Minus the 'bumper to bumper traffic' (read: a road crawl thanks to one lousy road hog), everything is an average of ten minutes away. Okay, maybe 20 for some. Ten minutes to your nearest grocery store. Ten minutes to your mother in law's. Ten minutes to your favourite pub. Do you really need an LRT to get there and back? Kudos on the flyovers (clap clap) but let's not get ahead of ourselves. So in Fridaycat's opinion: Nay to the LRT. My suggestion is to fix the dodgy roads for starters.
And for the Headline of the Day:
Wider Probe Into Sodomy Case
Someone get this editor a thesaurus.
Today, there was a public opinion piece on whether KK was ready for its very own LRT. It amazes me how optimistic our people are and although there is hope for us yet, I couldn't help but think, "Er, shouldn't they be working on the current transportation system?" Honestly, if buses here ran on schedule, taxis used meters and there were ACTUAL trains running on the tracks, I wouldn't mind using the public transportation at all. And let's face it, KK is a Ten-Minute city. Minus the 'bumper to bumper traffic' (read: a road crawl thanks to one lousy road hog), everything is an average of ten minutes away. Okay, maybe 20 for some. Ten minutes to your nearest grocery store. Ten minutes to your mother in law's. Ten minutes to your favourite pub. Do you really need an LRT to get there and back? Kudos on the flyovers (clap clap) but let's not get ahead of ourselves. So in Fridaycat's opinion: Nay to the LRT. My suggestion is to fix the dodgy roads for starters.
And for the Headline of the Day:
Wider Probe Into Sodomy Case
Someone get this editor a thesaurus.
Sunday, November 01, 2009
Groupie.
I never thought I'd be a groupie but here I am. I'll admit I didn't quite grow up listening to Deep Purple or Metallica but over the years, thanks to my very own Mr Musician, I've grown to appreciate some pretty cool rock stuff. And I'm not talking about the geological stuff.
Still, I am a long way from being a rock expert (a rock-et scientist, haha geddit geddit? I couldn't resist). Back to the groupie reference, I am officially a fan of Sabah's very own 4AG, which stands for 'For Aggressive Gentlemen'. They consist of five talented Chinese musicians and, defying stereotypes of all-Chinese bands, play excellent hard rock stuff in all three languages: English. Mandarin and yes, even some Malay numbers. Oh and I suppose I should point out that the hot rhythm guitarist is my fiance. Heh.
At first glance, they look like five guys from your average finance department - yes, I'm pigeon-holing. But I love the surprised reaction from the crowd when they start to get their groove on! Recently, I went to watch them perform at a local gig and one of the numbers they did was Deep Purple's Highway Star. They blew the crowd away!
They've been getting some rave reviews of the last few months and although they are relatively more low profile than other up and coming bands, I'd say 4AG is one to watch. What can I say...I'm a big fan! heh heh.
Still, I am a long way from being a rock expert (a rock-et scientist, haha geddit geddit? I couldn't resist). Back to the groupie reference, I am officially a fan of Sabah's very own 4AG, which stands for 'For Aggressive Gentlemen'. They consist of five talented Chinese musicians and, defying stereotypes of all-Chinese bands, play excellent hard rock stuff in all three languages: English. Mandarin and yes, even some Malay numbers. Oh and I suppose I should point out that the hot rhythm guitarist is my fiance. Heh.
At first glance, they look like five guys from your average finance department - yes, I'm pigeon-holing. But I love the surprised reaction from the crowd when they start to get their groove on! Recently, I went to watch them perform at a local gig and one of the numbers they did was Deep Purple's Highway Star. They blew the crowd away!
They've been getting some rave reviews of the last few months and although they are relatively more low profile than other up and coming bands, I'd say 4AG is one to watch. What can I say...I'm a big fan! heh heh.
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Raves.
I've been absolutely obsessed with playing...online games. Ok, it's probably a phase but it's amazing how diner dashing or building cities can kill time. I think I finally realized I needed a break when my eyes wouldn’t blink anymore and my right arm had a shooting pain flowing through it. Upon which I finally picked up my neglected books again. I was moved by Dr. Randy Pausch’s Last Lecture and after six million years I’ve finally completed James Patterson’s ‘The Quickie’ - not that it’s bad reading, simply a case of putting it down and never picking it up again. But this time, not only did I pick it up but I could not put it down. I lugged the book with me in the car, in the dim sum restaurant and while waiting for my nails to dry. I love Patterson’s stuff (Kiss The Girls anyone? As always, the movie didn’t do it justice, even with Morgan Freeman in it) and The Quickie will not disappoint. In fact, it got so gripping that I cheated and peeked at the end (hey, if the ending was bad, it wouldn’t be worth the hassle).I also finished a classic by Tehmina Durani, My Feudal Lord – it tells of her life story and struggles as a strong-willed woman married to a conservative Pakistani politician (that also translates to ‘sexist pig’). Intense.
And now on to this:
Coelho of course. If I had a splinter of his writing charm, I’d be blessed beyond belief. I don’t know how he does it but when he writes, you really feel as if he’s talking to you and only you. Intense.
To break the ‘intensity’ of the literary world, I turn to the idiot box. Yep, television at its best. More like…downloaded stuff. I sat through season four of Grey’s Anatomy and lost myself in boxes of Kleenex. I don’t understand why the producers have an undying need to make you sob through each episode. WHAT KIND OF PERVERSION IS THIS??? It’s a hospital, people die everyday, I get it. But first they make you bond with the character and then when you least expect it …BAM!...they die.
God, it’s good TV.
On a less depressing note, I turn to the latest season of The Big Bang Theory (oh praise the great powers for BitTorrent!). I’ve downloaded it in my iPod and my cardio workouts have become so effortless ever since. One episode and whaddaya know, 20 minutes of the stairmaster gone! I’ve been a loyal follower of the show since Dillon introduced it to me in Langkawi earlier this year. They’re on to Season 3 in the 
Tuesday beckons. Got some contracts to proofread and I'm done for the day. Smell you later.
Friday, October 09, 2009
Overheard.
Two girls, over drinks.
Friend 1: ....And he was there, that asshole who was a complete waste of your time.
Friend 2: Omg.
Friend 1: Yep. And he's gotten so fat and ugly.
Friend 2: *laughs* That's good to hear.
Friend 1: I moved to another table.
Friend 2: Why did you move?
Friend 1: Because I hate his guts.
I smiled. Because that's exactly what friendship should sound like.
Friend 1: ....And he was there, that asshole who was a complete waste of your time.
Friend 2: Omg.
Friend 1: Yep. And he's gotten so fat and ugly.
Friend 2: *laughs* That's good to hear.
Friend 1: I moved to another table.
Friend 2: Why did you move?
Friend 1: Because I hate his guts.
I smiled. Because that's exactly what friendship should sound like.
Friday, October 02, 2009
Scabs and scars
Forgiving and forgetting is like carpooling - we all know its good for the environment but no one really does it.
I don't claim to be an expert on the area but I've had my share of moments. And I'm really good at the 'one step forward, two steps back' tango - Just when I think it's out of my system, there it is, smack dab in the middle of my system.
It has taken years and one pack of cigarettes too many for me to forgive, let alone forget. I've done it all: journals, ranting even church camps (yes oh yes). I may not have learned to completely let go but I have definitely learned that sometimes all this resentment and bitterness can be all-consuming - mind, body and spirit. And as I enter my tantalising 30s (hey, it beats the 20s any day!), I'm just too excited about the future to give a rat's ass about the past. Why channel your energy on what could have been when you can use it on what's going to be?
So I haven't completely forgiven nor forgotten you. But what matters most is I am wise enough to realise what a complete waste of time and emotional energy grudge-bearing can be. And here's another lightbulb moment to share: Don't burn bridges but you are not obliged to maintain the repair works. You can't lose a friend if he/she was never one worth keeping in the first place.
Just sit back and let that old wound turn into a scar. You'll never even notice it there.
I don't claim to be an expert on the area but I've had my share of moments. And I'm really good at the 'one step forward, two steps back' tango - Just when I think it's out of my system, there it is, smack dab in the middle of my system.
It has taken years and one pack of cigarettes too many for me to forgive, let alone forget. I've done it all: journals, ranting even church camps (yes oh yes). I may not have learned to completely let go but I have definitely learned that sometimes all this resentment and bitterness can be all-consuming - mind, body and spirit. And as I enter my tantalising 30s (hey, it beats the 20s any day!), I'm just too excited about the future to give a rat's ass about the past. Why channel your energy on what could have been when you can use it on what's going to be?
So I haven't completely forgiven nor forgotten you. But what matters most is I am wise enough to realise what a complete waste of time and emotional energy grudge-bearing can be. And here's another lightbulb moment to share: Don't burn bridges but you are not obliged to maintain the repair works. You can't lose a friend if he/she was never one worth keeping in the first place.
Just sit back and let that old wound turn into a scar. You'll never even notice it there.
Sunday, September 27, 2009
...And we're back!
My trip to Manila was one great big exhale. Allow me to inhale as I gather my thoughts. Simply put, I had a blast and getting out of the country for a bit was exactly what I needed.
I highly recommend packing your bags for a dose of sanity.
I highly recommend packing your bags for a dose of sanity.
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Downsizing but upgrading.
As my good friend Jeri (how are ya sweetie?) wrote me a few days ago, yes I've been quiet and yes you are right to assume things are going good so far. Sometimes, no news is indeed good news.
I've been staying away from the cybersphere for a while, most of the time quite unintentionally actually. These days, I'm not chained to a desk and for the better part of the day, I pretty much do as I please (which consequently means I don't log on as much anymore). I meet clients, have long lunches and write whenever the time is right. It's liberating. But to ensure I maintain some disciplined schedule in my life, I still start my day by 8:00am. Even if that day begins with bringing my cats to the vet.
I've been able to spend some quality time with my family, especially my nieces who are growing up by the nanosecond, and my intimate circle of friends. As I anticipated, ever since I left my so-called high profile job as an editor for a local magazine, my phone has been more silent and my inbox static. And I am not complaining. Because it helps me sort out the real friends from the "Oh hi how you been? I loved your last issue. Wondering if you can help me out..." clan. And these days, I can honestly say I have at last five loyal caller IDs that keep popping up and these are friends who I know would still be there even if my career change involved scraping elephant poo. I heart you.
Which leads me to the fact that I am happily downsizing my life - less parties and less air-kissing - but truly upgrading the quality of my lifestyle. If there's anything I've gained in the last few weeks, I've learned that less is definitely more. And I am blessed that some of my former colleagues have remained true friends and it's refreshing to be on a more laid-back level with them without worrying about office politics.
And it's off to my week-long escape to Manila tomorrow where I will be exercising my other natural-born talent - shopping! Also, I will be introducing my fiance to my mum's family for the first time. Stay tuned for the Manila excursion!
I've been staying away from the cybersphere for a while, most of the time quite unintentionally actually. These days, I'm not chained to a desk and for the better part of the day, I pretty much do as I please (which consequently means I don't log on as much anymore). I meet clients, have long lunches and write whenever the time is right. It's liberating. But to ensure I maintain some disciplined schedule in my life, I still start my day by 8:00am. Even if that day begins with bringing my cats to the vet.
I've been able to spend some quality time with my family, especially my nieces who are growing up by the nanosecond, and my intimate circle of friends. As I anticipated, ever since I left my so-called high profile job as an editor for a local magazine, my phone has been more silent and my inbox static. And I am not complaining. Because it helps me sort out the real friends from the "Oh hi how you been? I loved your last issue. Wondering if you can help me out..." clan. And these days, I can honestly say I have at last five loyal caller IDs that keep popping up and these are friends who I know would still be there even if my career change involved scraping elephant poo. I heart you.
Which leads me to the fact that I am happily downsizing my life - less parties and less air-kissing - but truly upgrading the quality of my lifestyle. If there's anything I've gained in the last few weeks, I've learned that less is definitely more. And I am blessed that some of my former colleagues have remained true friends and it's refreshing to be on a more laid-back level with them without worrying about office politics.
And it's off to my week-long escape to Manila tomorrow where I will be exercising my other natural-born talent - shopping! Also, I will be introducing my fiance to my mum's family for the first time. Stay tuned for the Manila excursion!
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