tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-40547262450263742152024-03-20T23:12:26.212+08:00TO THE WORLD I MAY BE ONEbut to one I am the worldK-rule Azlanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18089196982634221851noreply@blogger.comBlogger182125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4054726245026374215.post-45954087581162218632017-08-30T15:47:00.003+08:002017-08-30T15:47:59.637+08:00I 3D printed this!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnRDF7jN60Z9bYiQ5JIPCDXhyphenhyphenNKWwi7CTrtwQhpDOtztsl64rX-rbcXBJ1ZTh2WQcr44jGjIyA7xpf2Fy9vzrnAcvAIgLxXJpv7pcCSXHXcEbq0M6sMutHfAUMe91RWoyPyHG3bQE9Nc0/s1600/iPhone_case-02.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnRDF7jN60Z9bYiQ5JIPCDXhyphenhyphenNKWwi7CTrtwQhpDOtztsl64rX-rbcXBJ1ZTh2WQcr44jGjIyA7xpf2Fy9vzrnAcvAIgLxXJpv7pcCSXHXcEbq0M6sMutHfAUMe91RWoyPyHG3bQE9Nc0/s320/iPhone_case-02.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Apparently, for some of my circle of friends, walking around with a naked (i.e. no casing) phone is portrayed as a risk taker, overconfidence, and even downright dangerous! To me, it's simply because I can't seem to find the casing that I want - which is just a simple clear case - not tinted, with no bumpers.<br />
<br />
So I went around with a naked, slippery, sometimes too cold sometimes too hot iPhone in my pocket. The thought of it scratching did cross my mind, but doesn't bother me as much.<br />
<br />
Then I remembered, we have a 3D printer in our office! Why not print my own casing instead?! That's an idea! So I went to thingiverse.com and scoured around for an iPhone casing. I was between two similar designs: and opted for the later because I like structured chaos more than complete structure.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh7jMBtCdASCNbL527JriCS9-K05ccFWIK2hFdjCqbDykE1YYkC4BdorjPkEq0izoyA2N662-Q2mKCuZSHJGMbXjFbcLg0PENcW3yUIOIu7qehwYePFLJDr4JGESMuuH4L_q-VXBJeID0/s1600/thing_1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="710" data-original-width="944" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh7jMBtCdASCNbL527JriCS9-K05ccFWIK2hFdjCqbDykE1YYkC4BdorjPkEq0izoyA2N662-Q2mKCuZSHJGMbXjFbcLg0PENcW3yUIOIu7qehwYePFLJDr4JGESMuuH4L_q-VXBJeID0/s320/thing_1.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:167177">https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:167177</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFgSUvwwloKWSoT2Y6TEiceFhKxCD9URK_b4CRDBv6QEDnkM57m1LIsAqIlSYlLBZCbq5KgAqkWMP8J90JzQ7-IOs34R6tlwTXVcJda2X0fzssHBMz5_Cn6avuBgauNI5joGdd_oZDas8/s1600/thing_2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="710" data-original-width="944" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFgSUvwwloKWSoT2Y6TEiceFhKxCD9URK_b4CRDBv6QEDnkM57m1LIsAqIlSYlLBZCbq5KgAqkWMP8J90JzQ7-IOs34R6tlwTXVcJda2X0fzssHBMz5_Cn6avuBgauNI5joGdd_oZDas8/s320/thing_2.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:319085">https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:319085</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
It took about 4 and a half hours to print, but the result was very exciting! The layers were smooth and structured, most of the circles came out alright. Only some of them had stringing and had a few later fell out because there were no support from the previous layers.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidAvNy-YsdKK7vPGr2CzFCnwmoFv9jT1HTGd_tII2JWjkqWwqPmr24t4yWAHzQi_NfuFUXY3Euk5TzpQRmw23xMzq_q3dS3GrxE6k9ow4Rev5owqsjn_R8s4H_mmdQXq0cSt-tCxU975A/s1600/iPhone_case-03.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidAvNy-YsdKK7vPGr2CzFCnwmoFv9jT1HTGd_tII2JWjkqWwqPmr24t4yWAHzQi_NfuFUXY3Euk5TzpQRmw23xMzq_q3dS3GrxE6k9ow4Rev5owqsjn_R8s4H_mmdQXq0cSt-tCxU975A/s320/iPhone_case-03.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here it is - it even has a circle for the Apple logo!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFjft8yvWJgDKJk1WubZar0CJu7LSIJaixvg4ONaqASB716e5f-coKL-P7_rNoCozleUPNc8ruHScLwzrpXy8i4yyOfRGU4FjF15iDs5OJ-G9SYCE9GNGiE1kqW-2EC6q6D7IFjC9tOLA/s1600/iPhone_case-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFjft8yvWJgDKJk1WubZar0CJu7LSIJaixvg4ONaqASB716e5f-coKL-P7_rNoCozleUPNc8ruHScLwzrpXy8i4yyOfRGU4FjF15iDs5OJ-G9SYCE9GNGiE1kqW-2EC6q6D7IFjC9tOLA/s320/iPhone_case-01.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looks pretty smooth, eh? </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I did went back home and filed them out with a nail-filer. I also filled the sides with some hot-glue gun - well the glue at least, not the gun. When the casing went on my phone, it wasn't a complete snug fit, so the dried glue kinda fills the gaps and keeps my phone from direct contact with the casing (you know, to avoid scratches).<br />
<br />
So all-in-all, I'm pretty happy with it. My friends are very impressed - despite what I did was literally download the free file from thingiverse, ran it over Cura, transfered it to a memory card, stuck that into the 3D printer and press print.<br />
<br />
Btw, we're looking to open up a MakerSpace here at my office, with one of the available service being 3D printing. Want to know more? Drop me a comment and let's talk!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16343318754417500635noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4054726245026374215.post-22196516904298852912017-07-14T20:54:00.000+08:002017-07-14T21:13:28.082+08:00I had LASER on my face!No, really! I did! What happened was a fellow blogger, Veyronica, hooked me up to this new skin management and beauty center located at Jalan Wan Alwi called <b>Nephos Aesthetic</b> (check out their <a href="https://www.facebook.com/beautykuching/" target="_blank">facebook page</a>). I have done some facials before - suffice to say a single visit makes very little difference but it does not make me an expert all of the sudden, but hey if a friend recommends the place, why not give it a shot.<br />
<br />
<h3>
Getting there: </h3>
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="450" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d3988.3981699772085!2d110.35935331403323!3d1.52876636140209!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x31fba70e90397e49%3A0x15682f0275de91b5!2sNEPHOS+aesthetics!5e0!3m2!1sen!2s!4v1500033056635" style="border: 0;" width="600"></iframe><br />
<br />
Kuchinglites being Kuchinglites, we wouldn't know one road name or the other. We use landmarks instead. Across Arena Sukan, on the ground floor of Queen's Court Building on Jalan Wan Alwi is where <b>Nephos Aesthetics</b> is located. Other landmarks include Megalanes Bowling Center, EG Mall, SeGi College and Bulatan Simpang Tiga. If none of this rings a bell (then you're not a true Kuchinglite lol) just use the map above and let your favourite drive app lead you there.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKkfdxBWUQqD-US9Ylx_dfciLFwJunDCnj6qhu0QJHyi0d_B7HPGMThukAARkAyQZt8fqdJAZa87NiatUUPR25Bw9X84MkPTxWpwPA_0_M2trHvNGu9kN5JK0MTnrsOF3jd07Ca9qVKZA/s1600/1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKkfdxBWUQqD-US9Ylx_dfciLFwJunDCnj6qhu0QJHyi0d_B7HPGMThukAARkAyQZt8fqdJAZa87NiatUUPR25Bw9X84MkPTxWpwPA_0_M2trHvNGu9kN5JK0MTnrsOF3jd07Ca9qVKZA/s320/1.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<h3>
What to do? Do I have to bring anything?</h3>
On first visit, you get consultation from <b>Dr. Rui</b> or one of his staffs. You'll get a comprehensive information about what type of skin you have, they'll ask your skin care routines, your daily activities and such. This is so that they can suggest the best products, procedure and/or treatment that suits you. Pretty normal right?<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKHKqtP8KuGo10O8afdMikLggT0DNiMmv-4TD7vz0S2cLC-DyT2lgRYTG17RyxVKBvNdF7wbgXBHkL7vLo02xEHiqGW5R0frfDYxBMcognFMx3R8mQgl-ZdFiYv3mhgneC-rUX5WMDal8/s1600/7.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKHKqtP8KuGo10O8afdMikLggT0DNiMmv-4TD7vz0S2cLC-DyT2lgRYTG17RyxVKBvNdF7wbgXBHkL7vLo02xEHiqGW5R0frfDYxBMcognFMx3R8mQgl-ZdFiYv3mhgneC-rUX5WMDal8/s320/7.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Consultation and filling the personal detail<br />
form with Dr. Rui</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<i>Not quite! </i>You have an option; in fact you are encouraged to bring the products that you used as part of your skin care routine. So ladies, bring those washes, creams, liquids, gels, powders and all and get even more information on especially whether the contents/ingredients is suitable or not for your skin! You are not obliged to use their products - you can keep using the ones you already have! Your wallet would probably appreciate it!<br />
<br />
Did I bring anything? Nope. I only ever used facewash, not sure aftershave counts, moisturizer and sunblock (SPF 50, at least). Not much to consult on imo.<br />
<br />
<h3>
What happens after the consultation?</h3>
This is the part where you get pampered and polished (yes, your skin can actually shine hahaha). Assuming that a procedure has been prepared for you, The first thing is to get changed. You gotta look the part, right? Use the washroom if you need to, and proceed to the prep room. You'll also do a pre-treatment photo shot, you know, so that you can see the before and after differences. Be reserved tho, the result varies person to person but generally after just one treatment, you won't notice a significant difference. It does take time.<br />
<br />
Next is the <i>clean and scrub</i> procedure. This first treatment removes any products that you may or may not apply before coming, and more importantly removes the dirt and excess oil from your skin. After that, a <i>numbness cream</i> is applied to your now clean face.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXhBo4ygsmVm9llgc2fgOPPraw5z1Mx0cG1vkLoeC2rqtr0_m76hmDKtRjQAUCQMffB5FRtpvbYiJ1Mdg5rHJne009QLhmADhr981A1lSU3Y8mMgpYbUxMrK5-_ObBtnYitIWD6NJQtfU/s1600/154.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXhBo4ygsmVm9llgc2fgOPPraw5z1Mx0cG1vkLoeC2rqtr0_m76hmDKtRjQAUCQMffB5FRtpvbYiJ1Mdg5rHJne009QLhmADhr981A1lSU3Y8mMgpYbUxMrK5-_ObBtnYitIWD6NJQtfU/s320/154.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cleaned, scrubbed and now applying <br />
the numbness cream</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Don't let the name intimidate you. The main purpose of the numbness cream is to prepare your skin for the next application, reducing sensitivity by just a tad. It won't completely numb it from touch or anything extreme of that sort.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFeAA9lekHc9g9thuHh1G1PAD54JYSS0fzmKnSxPeVOgWQqmjftrH2mOOCk7R2q9cTogtR_LX61gcuuTZq_mNu15aSXmHHZ7vqCP4mjrxjISCi5Q4MLAt_SIXHsrYYQF5WaZ_15Qv6wSg/s1600/180.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFeAA9lekHc9g9thuHh1G1PAD54JYSS0fzmKnSxPeVOgWQqmjftrH2mOOCk7R2q9cTogtR_LX61gcuuTZq_mNu15aSXmHHZ7vqCP4mjrxjISCi5Q4MLAt_SIXHsrYYQF5WaZ_15Qv6wSg/s320/180.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nano-carbon gel application</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Next, a <i>Nano-carbon gel</i> is applied. According to Dr. Rui, all their products are researched, developed and tested throughly before being put into application at Nephos Aesthetics, and this Nano-carbon gel is no exception. It's pretty cool upon application, gentle on the skin and does not aggravate at all.<br />
<br />
Once the gel is dry to touch, I was lead into the treatment room where all the machines are located. I have to admit I was a little scared, but my beautician of the day by the name of Rose (yes she's just as pretty as her name) along with Dr. Rui assured me that the procedures are safe.<br />
<br />
Naturally since we are dealing with <i>high-frequency laser</i>, some safety precautions are to be observed. A solid eye-cover to protect your eyes, keep as still as possible and communicate to your beautician throughout the procedure. If it hurts, let them know.<br />
<br />
It helps that Dr. Rui who did the laser treatment on me that day communicated well. He would tell me where he will start, touch the specific location on my cheek and counted down before beginning. Do expect this level of communication from any of his beauticians as well.<br />
<br />
Another thing that I liked was that I didn't have to shave! Of course for the most part of the treatment, they avoided my moustache and beard.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig2Z4J2zILT6l8Hg0TfLmJORTDYLVwoU05D92w47Jq1K_0U-X3hLfsg0CqW7Y6BaVGFPkh416VQ9PoHb4laIdHMnJLaY3mQSUPn2OVPsQSnvdFkzUm0l0E_Uux6SDxk5U6upEy05YPrFI/s1600/191.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig2Z4J2zILT6l8Hg0TfLmJORTDYLVwoU05D92w47Jq1K_0U-X3hLfsg0CqW7Y6BaVGFPkh416VQ9PoHb4laIdHMnJLaY3mQSUPn2OVPsQSnvdFkzUm0l0E_Uux6SDxk5U6upEy05YPrFI/s320/191.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">That's how the laser look like. Of course I only<br />
felt it slightly as a brief tingling warm sensation.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
You can also expect the slight smell of burned hair and skin. This is normal as the high-frequency laser does burn fine hair on your face (I'm a guy, I have plenty I reckon) and dead skin (yeap, plenty of that too).<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ-h85JwtQFZj36bgGgQ_jlUP454BPbCc1I2dMnRMvbjyASWEP4GkihzX4oFb_PhGeKQS_g7Mnc4Dm43CEevFnFZ_zPwxBDSLxlrGroR-EuQE0biwnplHvK2mwIDBbr9WaNcVJG0xv8H8/s1600/195.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ-h85JwtQFZj36bgGgQ_jlUP454BPbCc1I2dMnRMvbjyASWEP4GkihzX4oFb_PhGeKQS_g7Mnc4Dm43CEevFnFZ_zPwxBDSLxlrGroR-EuQE0biwnplHvK2mwIDBbr9WaNcVJG0xv8H8/s320/195.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Right side done!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHvG5xcJvMVdrMhP_Z4l5gEuvhzNWLwAwA524-QVFL13N-2xAeHtR0TZit6Wmp8szls1feYouXMcf0B6NsXIkefmOPne8DVsdnlFXLhz_-VfthzO4YYNzAASnFbaUf7WR0axmxSLLmIyU/s1600/207.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHvG5xcJvMVdrMhP_Z4l5gEuvhzNWLwAwA524-QVFL13N-2xAeHtR0TZit6Wmp8szls1feYouXMcf0B6NsXIkefmOPne8DVsdnlFXLhz_-VfthzO4YYNzAASnFbaUf7WR0axmxSLLmIyU/s320/207.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All done!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The skin cycles itself after an average of 28 days, therefore it is not recommended to do the laser treatment more than once every month. It might damage the skin before it had a chance to fully heal and repair itself.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
============================</div>
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
Take a blog break!</h3>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I'd like to think that this pampering and polishing moment comes as at great timing as my own birthday is coming soon! But no worries, I believe that <i>sharing is caring</i>, and therefore I'd love to share the experience at Nephos Aesthetics with my ready. <b>From now until July 31st, with a visit and any one of the treatment at Nephos Aesthetics, you get a voucher valued at RM100 to spend for your next visit!</b><br />
<br />
Here's what you need to do:<br />
1. Head to Nephos Aesthetic's facebook, give it a like and a follow!<br />
2. Use this promo code: <b>NEPHOSK07 </b>with any one of the 3<br />
treatment packages at Nephos Aesthetics.<br />
<br />
That't not all though. <i>Read along to find out more offerings!</i></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
============================</div>
<br />
<h3>
Next Treatment:</h3>
I'd imagine after being shot with a high-frequency laser my face would feel really <i>agitated</i>, but feeling-wise, it's not at all uncomfortable. Of course, Dr. Rui did explained that the skin is actually agitated, but on a level that is almost unfelt. It did feel a little warm for a few minutes, I told him, but other than that my skin feels pretty ok.<br />
<br />
In any case after laser comes the <i>blue-light skin soothing treatment</i>. This is probably my favourite part - super soothing I think I dozed off most part of it. Rose did a fine job there too I reckon. It was cold but comfortable, and I could almost feel the skin 'waking up' if that makes any sense at all. You <b>HAVE </b>to experience this!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirrhu545NgwGd5uSzTEPX30kpwAs5a3IfA9y_DsgO_0wiAC9rpmj-dh2oSwbl8FepxNvXu5Z2Zn-j3LF6C85jnPRuYNAm9jhsDGdHsxu4Xd7QKRq7oeX9mdr_4OuFlMvLWeszHKpzZpmc/s1600/211.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirrhu545NgwGd5uSzTEPX30kpwAs5a3IfA9y_DsgO_0wiAC9rpmj-dh2oSwbl8FepxNvXu5Z2Zn-j3LF6C85jnPRuYNAm9jhsDGdHsxu4Xd7QKRq7oeX9mdr_4OuFlMvLWeszHKpzZpmc/s320/211.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Blue Light! YYYAAASSSS!!!!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I really did not want it to be over but it had to make way for the mask, face massage and hydration treatment after! Comment below on how many different treatments in one visit so far! Post treatment image comes next, change back into your own clothes and some tea to accompany the post-treatment consultation.<br />
<br />
Like I mentioned, results vary from person to person, but my skin has never felt so relaxed! I could feel the gentle aircond wind on my face, it didn't feel weirdly tight and some of the dullness was reduced, giving way to a little bit of natural shine especially on my forehead and cheeks.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimehjk3nXFolJEsrdNDSA27nbUC6PT5FXetfPKsw19i28PwHqcXb4gaEa4dBK4Ch2rwtz3r2KAKGjz5O_i1Qryrrwwhd5VZsjRlkSjaICyhQiE6c6j6CqIlJA5Kivr-bCIDJVhOvLJGfs/s1600/236.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimehjk3nXFolJEsrdNDSA27nbUC6PT5FXetfPKsw19i28PwHqcXb4gaEa4dBK4Ch2rwtz3r2KAKGjz5O_i1Qryrrwwhd5VZsjRlkSjaICyhQiE6c6j6CqIlJA5Kivr-bCIDJVhOvLJGfs/s320/236.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Phantom of the Opera? Haha</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9OKOjxQeabd-O5pY_bBiMIO7nbytThjINPbRydmPdGq0tz9JG48ssbzPd6I6nRGXH-z1bo68vW-nJnG086nLK5i-BeSU1H1Xo0f3ms9w5q0gNs2W5x5TpGpRZKJM5EZ90KRohqfBpLjI/s1600/241.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9OKOjxQeabd-O5pY_bBiMIO7nbytThjINPbRydmPdGq0tz9JG48ssbzPd6I6nRGXH-z1bo68vW-nJnG086nLK5i-BeSU1H1Xo0f3ms9w5q0gNs2W5x5TpGpRZKJM5EZ90KRohqfBpLjI/s320/241.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Look at how radiant my skin is!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiygB40UvbmJhy-j4gz0Eoo_8yLUX0ZtKUdLJtAvd7x_y_E2LNunYEP6b2XDR3MHoMhb5R37v882_atR0-ajHNavxREG_MxNliNWwDrAzhGrZDIagm44emKNM62AUCY9V6JQ39wGUUw1GQ/s1600/280.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiygB40UvbmJhy-j4gz0Eoo_8yLUX0ZtKUdLJtAvd7x_y_E2LNunYEP6b2XDR3MHoMhb5R37v882_atR0-ajHNavxREG_MxNliNWwDrAzhGrZDIagm44emKNM62AUCY9V6JQ39wGUUw1GQ/s320/280.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Taking note of adjustment to my<br />
skincare routine</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I'd still like to see my giant pores shrink but it'll happen in due time, Dr. Rui assured. In the mean time... congratulations on making it this far into my post this time! It's a little lengthy I know, but if I really had my way it would probably be twice as long! But, I think some mystery should be left to be experienced and not read about, so make your way to Nephos Aesthetic as soon as you can and treat yourself good!<br />
<br />
<h3>
Conclusion? Was it worth it?</h3>
<div>
Every. Single. Second! All in all the whole experience took about an hour and a half (much of which I dozed off). On the drive back I could feel my skin 'breathing' if that makes sense at all. This is pretty much my own conclusion as according to Dr. Rui and Rose, the <b>Skin Rejuvination with Nano-carbon </b>aims to reduce dullness and bring back radiance in the skin. It did, but feeling wise my skin has never felt lighter and more supple. Definitely booking my next appointment next month!<b> </b></div>
<div>
<b><br /></b></div>
<h3>
But wait! What about the offerings!</h3>
Haha I did not forget about that. If you approach Nephos Aesthetics <b>from now until 31st of July, for just RM48</b>, you can choose any <b>ONE </b>of these three treatments n<b>ot just for you</b> but for another person too! Boys, why not make it a date with your girl? Or mother? Or sister? If it's not your thing, treat her and her best friend. Trust me, she'll love you for it!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv5Rqw4aIGfrMzL_ozLE4reToZ8BbA83cixCCuqe0i6u4lUoNFkx3jbG7nyE2uHEWxyIH6u_gSXKKKfeOY340aZCdn7fgzoNYdO55X4urLiXFBq13tNd6c8joIXPJVpSi-br1Z31FjpN0/s1600/360.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv5Rqw4aIGfrMzL_ozLE4reToZ8BbA83cixCCuqe0i6u4lUoNFkx3jbG7nyE2uHEWxyIH6u_gSXKKKfeOY340aZCdn7fgzoNYdO55X4urLiXFBq13tNd6c8joIXPJVpSi-br1Z31FjpN0/s320/360.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
<div>
<h4>
Notes:</h4>
</div>
<div>
<ol>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">Full gallery of my experience can be viewed here: <a href="https://photos.app.goo.gl/iVPllBXIRuERSFAv1">https://photos.app.goo.gl/iVPllBXIRuERSFAv1</a></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">To preserve the authenticity of the experience. none of the photos included in this blog or gallery has been edited. The effect of the lighting results in warm and cool tones among various photos. </span></li>
</ol>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16343318754417500635noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4054726245026374215.post-79053809329823511242017-02-02T03:57:00.002+08:002017-02-02T03:57:39.667+08:00This feeling, it will pass<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSemCSmuF6bAMg0AHD_OW6d8JApeYe5MeG0Pg24Xplg6Pzb243O6NxceGasj7DokFYHZFf-gpNO67T9mlRLmJAVNRKgfC4iRWDKhLK0jB6vHtKaS51cYK1jBf9f2l4xBhRcmy4N9GJI7w/s1600/I%2527m+fine.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="175" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSemCSmuF6bAMg0AHD_OW6d8JApeYe5MeG0Pg24Xplg6Pzb243O6NxceGasj7DokFYHZFf-gpNO67T9mlRLmJAVNRKgfC4iRWDKhLK0jB6vHtKaS51cYK1jBf9f2l4xBhRcmy4N9GJI7w/s320/I%2527m+fine.gif" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
"urghhh... what time is it?" Shit, I had woken him up again. The night before I did my best to sneak out of the room on tip toes when I thought he'd been asleep. Tonight I slept in socks in hopes that that wold completely silence my footstep, but he'd always been such a light sleeper.<br />
<br />
"It's 2.30... go back to sleep," I said quietly as I twisted the handles of my bedroom door. At this point I wonder why I let him sleep in my bedroom.<br />
<br />
"2.30? Did you even sleep or were you up the whole time?" By now he's sitting on the bed. In the dim light I could tell how drowsy he is. Honestly, I am envious. He's the kind of person that falls asleep within 5 seconds of his head resting on the pillow. Me on the other hand, an insomniac.<br />
<br />
"Sorry I woke you. I thought I'd get a glass of water." We were on separate beds, his literally across the room, mine just beside the door. Yet somehow, between the rusling of my blanket and those few steps to the door I manage to wake him up.<br />
<br />
"Yeah don't sweat it. I'd wake if an ant dropped his food on the floor anyways. And there's a jug of water and a cup on the bedside table. Where were you going, really?" I remembered the night before I had poured the jug in case he got thirsty.<br />
<br />
"Owh, right. I forgot." Lame excuse.<br />
<br />
"You wanna talk about it?" I had let go of the doorknob without opening the door. I turned to him wondering if it's a good idea to talk now. It is in the weird hour of the night and we both need to go to work tomorrow. Sleep for me is less of an importance, more of a luxury that I can never seem to afford anymore. But for him, and every normal human being, sleep is a necessity.<br />
<br />
"It's late, you have work tomorrow. Go back to sleep." I said, reaching once again for the doorknob. I didnt know where to go or what to do at this hour - probably just roam the seven hundred square foot, one bedroom apartment until I bore myself and go back to bed hoping sleep would come eventually.<br />
<br />
"Yeah I'll get the beers. You tell me what's been bothering you, and if it's the same thing, please, by all means refresh my memory." He lit the bedside lamp and was already on his feet. I opened the bedroom door and headed left in the hallway towards the kitchen. "Look, there's always a solution to every problems. For those you think you can't solve, seek help. Give it time. Talk to us. We're friends, right?"<br />
<br />
"Yeah," I replied solemnly as I sat on the island. He took our two bottles of beers out of the fridge, handed one to me. "Cheers," I said.<br />
<br />
"Cheers. You know, I've known you for so many years, this isn't the first time for you - surviving a break up - but I can tell that it's probably the worst."<br />
<br />
"You think?" I sniggered.<br />
<br />
"Yeah. It's been what, a year? And you're still depressed as fuck." has it really been a year? Nah, he's exaggerating. It felt like yesterday when she left. "What I don't get though, is this is the shortest one but it had the biggest impact on you." I must've been 16, 17 when I had my first girlfriend. We stayed together for 7 years. The one after that was 5 years and with her, it was only 3 years.<br />
<br />
"At this rate my next relationship would probably last a year." I quipped, finding the statement both morbid and amusing at the same time.<br />
<br />
"Or it could last a lifetime?" It could. I suddenly crave for a cigarette but I had finished my pack earlier and didn't buy a fresh pack. Now I come to regret my decision. "What was she like to you? You know, back when you were together?"<br />
<br />
"Real." It was a sort and quick answer.<br />
<br />
"Real? What do you mean?" It did beg an explanation.<br />
<br />
"It felt real, like we had a future together. I had it planned out , when my business gets stable enough, we'd get a place together. We made plans for the future."<br />
<br />
"... and?"<br />
<br />
"And when she got that job, it felt even more real. Yeah, she had to move away but I read that as an opportunity - a choice, whether we'd settle down in a new city or wait for her to come back."<br />
<br />
"She never did." he said.<br />
<br />
"She never did."<br />
<br />
"What I don't get tho," he took a swig of his bottle, swallowed and continued. "... is why did she broke up with you. If things were going so well, why did she dump you?"<br />
<br />
"Wise choice of words to say to a broken heart."<br />
<br />
"I'm not a poet."<br />
<br />
"Well it was my fault. Remember a couple of years back, thing thing with the car and how business was slow, I had a lot of things on my mind?" Wow it really had been a year.<br />
<br />
"Yeah? You were just about like this. Less extreme, less suicidal, but just about. What happened?"<br />
<br />
"She took it as a sign that I didn't want her in my life."<br />
<br />
"Wow.. really? She hasn't seen that side of you before?" I met his eyes, and I saw a glimpse of bewilderment. This person, and another girl I like sharing drinks with, they eased into my life without much adjustment. Understanding that I am a chaos of contradiction.<br />
<br />
"Nope. I guess it scared her away. I've probably seen her at her worst, loved her for who she is - may not yet completely but we were definitely learning."<br />
<br />
"but that's not what's been keeping you up all night every night? How do you do it, by the way. I mean, for sure I'll be a little tired tomorrow morning but you, with literally a couple of hours of sleep every day, how could you function?"<br />
<br />
"haha. You tell me. Naps, I guess?" I do tend to nap a couple of time throughout the day.<br />
<br />
"Yeah, I noticed you need more of those lately. But tell me, what's bothering you?"<br />
<br />
"She gave up on me. It was simple as that."<br />
<br />
"She gave up on you, so you decided to give up on yourself?" the silence that came next was so thick you could cut it with a knife. "She stopped loving you so you decided to stop loving yourself? She didn't want you in her life anymore so you decided it's not a life worth living anymore? Is that it?"<br />
<br />
"There's not much to go on for after she left."<br />
<br />
"I'm not gonna say I know how you feel, but trust me, I'm trying to understand. It's not the best feeling to be invalidated like that, but these feelings, they will pass."<br />
<br />
That's what I tell myself every day. That today is another day. Work the routines. Eat, maybe go for a jog. A smile, a laugh, couple of texts from other friends. A quick shower at the end of the day, maybe read off a few pages of a book, then sleep. Or pretend to sleep. Rinse and repeat the next day.<br />
<br />
Every now and then there's bound to be outings with different groups of friends. Some drinks, maybe enjoy a movie, maybe go for a karaoke night. There'll be deadlines to catch, new projects, new clients.<br />
<br />
But in all of that, I'll probably never feel valid ever again. But this is my burden, not yours.<br />
<br />
"Yeah, I'm sure it will. But for now, let's go back to sleep." Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16343318754417500635noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4054726245026374215.post-39813547245153589172016-11-18T17:02:00.001+08:002016-11-18T17:16:24.264+08:00FEMME FATALE: The Fashion Temptation<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjThfyF_0MxH2qS4fpsjEnKemS5zjVTmyxzMVwcTARkqFeoWIM_nCelgCX-WF9GzvDMUNz6gLnHZv39XtCEuoT4OZgOkUynR8MjeuKf7SayHKf_oEd-5yJmDa7vs0iwDR7ybf7br1bbsWA/s1600/giphy+%25281%2529.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjThfyF_0MxH2qS4fpsjEnKemS5zjVTmyxzMVwcTARkqFeoWIM_nCelgCX-WF9GzvDMUNz6gLnHZv39XtCEuoT4OZgOkUynR8MjeuKf7SayHKf_oEd-5yJmDa7vs0iwDR7ybf7br1bbsWA/s400/giphy+%25281%2529.gif" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Congratulations on the new outlet Femme Fatale!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
With so many malls popping up in Kuching, it's not a surprise big brands and fashion houses flock over and launch their outlets here. The latest one - Femme Fatale! Located in VivaCity Megamall, officiated by General Manager Ms. Christine Lee and VivaCity Megamall Center Manager Mr. Jonathan Naming.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2YW3O26aFg4/WC6_oXsrDHI/AAAAAAAArTE/WLnjhhfZ67gPUUWVaQ_IoWhA-7PinDgIQCPcB/s1600/IMG_9422.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2YW3O26aFg4/WC6_oXsrDHI/AAAAAAAArTE/WLnjhhfZ67gPUUWVaQ_IoWhA-7PinDgIQCPcB/s320/IMG_9422.JPG" width="214" /></a></div>
<br />
Femme Fatale, for those non-familiar, is a boutique that strongly believes that women should be able to adorn themselves with original designer bags and have access to them without the need to leave the country for their shopping spree. Femme Fatale hosts beautiful, desirable and in trend, authentic designer bags and accessories from the most prestigious names: Prada, Balenciaga, Burberry, Miu Miu, Gucci, Yves Saint Laurent (YSL), Fendi, Christian Dior and many many more.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KZKXPFrBAKo/WC6_piJV3FI/AAAAAAAArTM/8ZV-DXHkw8IxRrE1R6B4hjim4RPsOIRfQCPcB/s1600/IMG_9430.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="195" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KZKXPFrBAKo/WC6_piJV3FI/AAAAAAAArTM/8ZV-DXHkw8IxRrE1R6B4hjim4RPsOIRfQCPcB/s320/IMG_9430.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yJLDH8T969g/WC6_qMxEe5I/AAAAAAAArTQ/Hudl4_6X9B0wBfXeyuXs5hqF7vkORujjwCPcB/s1600/IMG_9434.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yJLDH8T969g/WC6_qMxEe5I/AAAAAAAArTQ/Hudl4_6X9B0wBfXeyuXs5hqF7vkORujjwCPcB/s320/IMG_9434.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-b91NwnheAxw/WC6_rsIBqXI/AAAAAAAArTc/qMgm7Wx3IXAXVUB-1KwTHHXZZ53-ixXJQCPcB/s1600/IMG_9452.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-b91NwnheAxw/WC6_rsIBqXI/AAAAAAAArTc/qMgm7Wx3IXAXVUB-1KwTHHXZZ53-ixXJQCPcB/s320/IMG_9452.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Anything and everything you purchased at Femme Fatale under whichever names or brands you so desire comes with a certificate of authenticity, original care cards, warranty cards, dust-bags and packings, very much the same as you would if you were to go to a specific designer boutique. So you don't have to worry about carrying a "fake" product, simply because you did not buy it from the brand's own boutique because Femme Fatale is all about the authenticity and accessibility of design bags and accessories.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HIhp_OGiX84/WC7B8cdPLeI/AAAAAAAArTo/QdqCCdQz0v8O9DIFHPEuAEbg6vIWBLysgCPcB/s1600/IMG_9472.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HIhp_OGiX84/WC7B8cdPLeI/AAAAAAAArTo/QdqCCdQz0v8O9DIFHPEuAEbg6vIWBLysgCPcB/s320/IMG_9472.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
If you're also wondering if Femme Fatale carries these brands as an appointed distributor, the answer is no. They are in fact a parallel importer of these products. Most of the collections in their boutiques are exclusive, limited editions and unique models that are not available in the respective brands' boutiques in Malaysia. With the option to select each pieces as importers, Femme Fatale is able to house them in multi-brand store environment for the pleasure and convenience of their customers. Furthermore, for each items in the store, only limited units are available ensuring each design remain unique to their patrons.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZqtWPMxnY7w/WC6_ox0-HEI/AAAAAAAArTI/9KyEJoZpYpMaLS55E7gt9II-FRQW5kXwQCPcB/s1600/IMG_9426.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZqtWPMxnY7w/WC6_ox0-HEI/AAAAAAAArTI/9KyEJoZpYpMaLS55E7gt9II-FRQW5kXwQCPcB/s320/IMG_9426.JPG" width="214" /></a></div>
<br />
Note that every 2 to 3 months, Femme Fatale will refresh her collections with the latest and trendiest. Pricewise, you'll be happy to know that they retail at lower price than the official retail price in respective brands' boutiques. Femme Fatale also offers easy payment scheme (up to 24 months) so you can shop without denting your monthly expenditure to the point of breaking.<br />
<br />
For those in Kuching specifically, Femme Fatale boutique is located at G-015, Ground Floor, VivaCity Megamall (<i>psssttt!! it's right next to Secret Recipe</i>). If you're the online type like me, their facebook link is <a href="https://www.facebook.com/myfemmefatale/" target="_blank">here</a> and instagram <a href="https://www.instagram.com/femmefatalemy/" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
<br />
Now.. what do you recon I spend these vouchers on?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hjyvdU67P10/WC7CBmrFr0I/AAAAAAAArTw/x3aple1iKC0fyQzbtoufeUZcDa5SKm7dQCPcB/s1600/IMG_9500.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="170" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hjyvdU67P10/WC7CBmrFr0I/AAAAAAAArTw/x3aple1iKC0fyQzbtoufeUZcDa5SKm7dQCPcB/s320/IMG_9500.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16343318754417500635noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4054726245026374215.post-74141358086520848762016-11-14T23:58:00.000+08:002016-11-15T14:56:24.003+08:00Couchsurfing Saturday: Locked Out of My Own Car with BBQ Stuffs in it?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dyJbu8clGVmRNMMMqvPlT9qTiRwuaJ1R3e7bLBNgmAQCpJt67lePlrRZrXtMEspx9S_dOKNCxxFgHlBldOE' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
<br />
So if by chance I haven't talk about this group of super awesome people that are the <a href="https://www.couchsurfing.com/" target="_blank">Couchsurfers</a>, I'm talking about them now. And if you haven't heard about them, well you heard about them here first!<br />
<br />
At least from what I gathered, every major cities in the world has a group of Couchsurfer hosts that will either hang out with travellers, take them out to local hotspots (that are not limited to the popular touristy ones) or even host you for a night or two.<br />
<br />
So if you're planning to travel cheap and immerse yourself in the local culture, what better way than to actually meet the locals and have them take you to places! As for myself, I'm part of the Kuching Couchsurfers. Several things to highlight about this group (and generally about all Couchsurfers out there) are: super-friendly and helpful, well informed, non-judgemental and very much welcoming in just about every single way - within respectful boundaries, of course.<br />
<br />
And guess what, while you're reading this, you've just missed one of the best gathering of Couchsurfers ever! Last Saturday began with brunch at the famous <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MomsLaksaKopitiam/" target="_blank">Mom's Laksa</a> - <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com.my/Restaurant_Review-g298309-d4737127-Reviews-Moms_Laksa-Kuching_Sarawak.html" target="_blank">Tripadvisor recommends</a> (there are several outlets, we went to the one in Jalan Haji Taha). I'll admit it was one of the plans that I didn't expect to commit fully because I was supposed to meet friends but as they cancelled and I was already out and about, I decided to join them anyways.<br />
<br />
We took off from Mom's Laksa to get some groceries for the bbq later that same evening where even more Couchsurfers; hosts and travellers, would join up as well. But lemme tell you about the stupid thing I did.. or didn't do.. I <u><i>did not</i></u> pick up my car keys from the dashboard after we stowed away about half of the groceries - chicken, hotdogs and veges mostly - in my car. Yeap.. I locked myself out.<br />
<br />
After about an hour, a couple of minutes of <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XWVNWn9BpQ4" target="_blank">Youtube instructions</a> and a bit of nylon ropes, we managed to pull the lock off my car - without damaging it or triggering any alarm - and recovered my keys. It was a general consensus that that was some MacGyver sh*t that we pulled off there! So thanks everyone for the support - Kelvin, Teemo, Dee, Jeff, Brett, everyone ^^. And specifically for putting up with my clumsiness! <br />
<br />
Next stop was the host - Matnoor - at his awesome place <a href="https://goo.gl/maps/Fnr7DERZXTG2" target="_blank">Matang Wildlife Homestay</a> (booking and enquiry link <a href="https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/952594" target="_blank">here</a>). It was the perfect venue for evening bbq, karaoke and get together. No neighbours left or right to annoy, right on top of a hill (kinda hard to miss) and just about everything under one roof.<br />
<br />
Before the even fell and the last daylight went out, we managed to grab a rather late lunch at <a href="https://goo.gl/maps/hh7eXexZ3i12" target="_blank">Telaga Air</a>. A small and quaint village, we must've been on an incline because my car definitely struggled uphill, sampled the locally fresh made jellyfish umai (look it up, it's really good I recommend you try it yourself if you have the chance) and had coconut shake for dessert. On a hot (but definitely beautiful) dah such as that day, the smooth cold drink definitely quench your thirst.<br />
<br />
Then we headed for the beach. Although the tide was low, a couple of us stayed for a swim and the rest - myself included - headed back to the homestay to prep up for the evening bbq. The view was great at the beach. It was literally untouched! Nobody else but us at the beach, the breeze was good, and the weather fine!
<br />
<br />
<div align="center">
<iframe allowtransparency="true" frameborder="0" height="380" scrolling="no" src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fphoto.php%3Ffbid%3D10157806130900565%26set%3Da.234396905564.289731.815370564%26type%3D3&width=500" style="border: none; overflow: hidden;" width="500"></iframe>
</div>
<br />
<div align="center">
<iframe allowtransparency="true" frameborder="0" height="380" scrolling="no" src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fphoto.php%3Ffbid%3D10157806127135565%26set%3Da.234396905564.289731.815370564%26type%3D3&width=500" style="border: none; overflow: hidden;" width="500"></iframe>
</div>
<br />
Lemme tell you something else I discovered that night - talents. Talents everywhere! There were no lacking of drum players, guitar players, singer/songwriter, bakers (OMG the scones! To die for!!!), IT people to sort out a couple of kinks with the karaoke system (and impromptu background). Hang on did I mention dessert? Jean OMG the cream caramel! Bye bye waistline, I won't miss you anytime soon! Hahaha! Fact: I woke up a little after noon the next day. Two words: Food coma.<br />
<br />
<div align="center">
<iframe allowtransparency="true" frameborder="0" height="285" scrolling="no" src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fphoto.php%3Ffbid%3D10157806125935565%26set%3Da.234396905564.289731.815370564%26type%3D3&width=500" style="border: none; overflow: hidden;" width="500"></iframe>
</div>
<br />
<div align="center">
<iframe allowtransparency="true" frameborder="0" height="285" scrolling="no" src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fphoto.php%3Ffbid%3D10157806133875565%26set%3Da.234396905564.289731.815370564%26type%3D3&width=500" style="border: none; overflow: hidden;" width="500"></iframe>
</div>
<br />
<div align="center">
<iframe allowtransparency="true" frameborder="0" height="285" scrolling="no" src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fphoto.php%3Ffbid%3D10157806134240565%26set%3Da.234396905564.289731.815370564%26type%3D3&width=500" style="border: none; overflow: hidden;" width="500"></iframe>
</div>
<br />
There were so oh so many stories told, customs exchanged, differences understood and respected, languages spoken, knowledge learned! It'l like you're abroad in your own place. A huge thanks to the organisers who made it happen - thanks Dee, Kelvin and Matnoor for letting us have one of the best of many many more experiences to come.<br />
<br />
If you're coming to Kuching, look us up on the Couchsurfing website; and welcome to Kuching! If you're planning your next trip, keep an eye on the Couchsurfing community at the place you're going. Who knows, you might end up with an experience that'll definitely last a lifetime. And friends too. Lots and lots of friends.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16343318754417500635noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4054726245026374215.post-77872943493904612022016-10-20T12:21:00.001+08:002016-10-20T12:21:11.424+08:00Nando's - Your Eyes Eat First!Honestly, I've only had Nando's once before - that was when I was on a short trip to KL and my (<i>then</i>) girlfriend asked me to get her a half-a-chicken from KLIA2. It was also my first time in that airport, and between rushing to check in to my flight, drop off luggage and getting completely and utterly lost, I managed to haul the half-a-chicken to her house; paper-bag and all!<br />
<br />
It was lemon and herbs, as I recall - and having spend several hours in transit, there isn't much left to the flavor so I never thought twice of having it again. That, and the fact that there wasn't any Nando's in my city (or state for that matter).<br />
<br />
<h3>
<b>Until now...</b> </h3>
<br />
When Nando's opened at VivaCity Megamall, I could never find the time or company to go! I even missed the launch - Nando's hatching in Kuching. Get it? <i>Hatching</i>? Because of Nando's specialty?<br />
<br />
Fast forward several months - <i>maybe close to a year idk</i> - I spent several weeks in Miri. When I came back, the first thing I did was visit The Spring mall (<i>because!</i>). Surprise surprise, Nando's opened up another <i>casa</i> there! (Nando's outlet/restaurant = casa)<br />
<br />
First impression: what a nice place to dine! There wasn't alfresco seating (there is in VivaCity) but it makes sense because Kuching is a hot city. The ambiance was dotted with circular leather booths, small tables for two, four and six as well as a huge table that could seat 10 to 12 persons easy! Get this, they're all made of genuine leather and wood too. The chandeliers are warm, half the walls were glasses letting the natural light in (selfie addicts, lighting here is life!) and the other half is dotted with decor from recycled materials as well as South African artwork (hello new profile picture lol).<br />
<br />
Ah I forgot to take shots of the wash basin! It was so cleverly designed I woudn't mind sitting next to it at all (it's a personal preference thing because I prefer less traffic around where I sit)<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/j4G5r0HPWok" width="560"></iframe><br />
Modern and comfy!<br />
<br /></div>
Art and decor is something that I also wanted to touch on. The Nando's Global Art initiative features Southern Africa creativity worldwide - turning their outlets into an art gallery of pieces sourced from developmental programmes run by Yellowwoods Art. Artists under these programmes are enabled with opportunities to earn regular income while spreading awareness of their culture. Currently, Nando's has over 17,000 pieces in their collection displayed in their outlets all over the world! And yes, beacuse of that, every single restaurant is uniquely designed! So next time you're dining at one of Nadod's casas, keep an eye on the art pieces and comment below on which ones caught your eyes!<br />
<br />
<h3>
Yeah yeah, we know you enjoyed how it looks. What about the food?</h3>
<div>
<br /></div>
Now now, hakuna your tatas. Chill. That's part of why you'd want to dine at Nando's. I was told that their <b>peri peri sauce</b> is a sauce to be reckoned with. It is spicy - that was what I was told. But first let's talk about their selection of being fine af - or Fino in Portuguese (I'm talking about the sides of course). There are 3 choices to savour - <b>Spinach </b>for the Popeyes out there, <b>Red Skin Mashed Potatoes </b>with a whole lot of yummies and (in my honest opinion) the one that'll be ordered most, <b>Sweet Potato Chips</b>. These were so good our tabled ordered seconds after we finished our chickens!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://nandos.com.my/nandos_my/sites/default/files/NewsGrill-add-on.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://nandos.com.my/nandos_my/sites/default/files/NewsGrill-add-on.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
New Fino Sides</div>
<br />
<br />
Ah yes, the chickens. I can't say a lot about the chicken because I'd rather be stuffing my mouth with them. The big challenge for Nando's in Kuching is that their raw stocks has to take an additional 3 to 4 weeks to arrive. The chickens are sourced locally, of course. I'm talking about the peri peri goodness they used to marinate the chicken in. 24 hours marinate, freshly delivered everyday, no frozen makes for tender, fall of the bone, savory, warm and super good!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/j5Ahlcf8Ge4" width="560"></iframe></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
YYYASSSS!! CHICKINNSSS!!! </div>
<br />
And the sauce? This depends on person to person but if you're asking for my opinion, it's not as hot as I had anticipated (having once tasted 20 chillies in a sambal that first burned my tongue then turned into a sort of sweet hotness while crying my eyes out and sweating the way away). That said, I enjoyed it very much because it allows me to taste the flavour - hot with a bit of sourness to it. Mind you this is the Extra Hot!<br />
<br />
I would really recommend it. If you're able to hold your ground pass the hotness (tissues at ready please), it will turn into a sweet coating on your tongue and allows you to taste everything so much better! But if you's a wuss, there's always the mild and ginger ones for you to enjoy too. But know that you're missing out. Afterall, peri peri chicken is supposed to be hot?<br />
<br />
Alrite so we've talked about the looks and feels of Nando's; particularly the one at the Spring Shopping Mall. We've talked about the new sides. We've talked about the chicken. For us that day, we had the Caramel Cheesecake. The best way to enjoy this is to pair it with straight up black coffee because it is deliciously sweet. I can't get over the fact that when it came for the next person sitting next to us, and she enjoyed it bite after bite, I just wanna steal it from her! Dense and thick with cheese between a sweet base and caramel top that glisten with a sheen so good I just can't!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="480" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/1s6UtMm-PqQ" width="560"></iframe></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Deliciously sweet </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
And when it finally made it's way into my mouth, I die (in South African accent).<br />
<br />
Well, there you go. You can take my word for it or better yet, head over to Nando's near you and try it for yourself. 10 out of 10 would dine there again!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16343318754417500635noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4054726245026374215.post-34905854712181729642016-09-27T02:04:00.000+08:002016-09-27T02:04:10.750+08:00Will you help? <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.lovethispic.com/uploaded_images/34618-Do-You-Want-To-Give-Up-.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="166" src="https://www.lovethispic.com/uploaded_images/34618-Do-You-Want-To-Give-Up-.gif" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
"Do you think she's gonna come back?" we were nursing a pot of sakura tea between us. The Japanese restaurant, despite hearing mixed feedback from other friends who patroned the place before was pleasant.<br />
<br />
"Nopehh." She purposely added the 'pehh' to make a single syllable word two.<br />
<br />
"For Christmas?" I asked again.<br />
<br />
"You won't be there beside her." She quipped.<br />
<br />
"Maybe she'll call." I said.<br />
<br />
"You'd turn blue."<br />
<br />
"I wasn't gonna hold my breath." Flustered.<br />
<br />
"Yeah you would." I love-hate she knew me so well. It's like she's in my head. "You still have her stuffs?"<br />
<br />
I nodded. I had plans to return them over the weekend but there were excuses.<br />
<br />
"and... you're still taking care of it?" she nudged the word 'it' a little strong. I knew what she meant. It wasn't our idea to get a pet together, she got it for herself. Never had a chance to disagree because the decision was already made.<br />
<br />
"I'm not sure what I should do about it." I honestly don't. Pets need that care and attention from their humans, not just simply feeding. Hers, was especially social. I ended up taking care of it. On one hand, returning it would take the responsibility off of my shoulders; but on the other I know it won't get enough attention in her house.<br />
<br />
"Return it. It's not yours to keep. You can't even travel anymore because of it. Speaking of travel, what are you gonna do with the trip? It's in a couple of weeks, right?" Yeah I arranged a trip to the highlands with her on the weekend of her birthday. It was supposed to be a surprise, I'm half glad I haven't told her yet.<br />
<br />
"I was gonna cancel the bookings." It was a lovely cottage with a smokehouse - not exactly common in this country. Surrounded by multiple flower gardens: lavenders, tulips, lilies, roses of all colours. There's strawberry farms where you pay a sum and eat all the strawberries. Apples, grapes too. There's even a Time Capsule Museum, I know she would appreciate that because she loves museums!<br />
<br />
"while hoping she'd call you up and then you'd have the chance to bring it up in a conversation and she'll be all grateful and would get back with you."<br />
<br />
"I really was." She sniggered and emptied her cup. She's starting to get antsy, probably itching for a cigarette. I poured her another cup, the smell of sakura flowers wafting between us.<br />
<br />
"Look, you're the nicest, sweetest, most generous, selfless, romantic, heartiest person I know.."<br />
<br />
"Thanks you." I raised my cup and drank.<br />
<br />
"... but you're also in denial..." I placed my cup, there quarters empty, back on it's tiny mat that serves as a coaster. It looked so cute and well placed. "... which is fine. Denial is the first stage of moving on. You can hope that she'll call you tomorrow, text you the next hour, maybe leave a comment on your Facebook or like one of your Instagram photos..." She looked straight into my eyes. "but she hasn't since when?"<br />
<br />
"About a month.." my voice trailed.<br />
<br />
"A month. Before the two of you broke up, the only conversation you had with each other was about cats and babies, and that was purely sending each other one video after another."<br />
<br />
"Yeah." I couldn't disagree.<br />
<br />
"She never asked about how it was doing. She never asked about how you're doing for that matter. She never talked about herself with you since she left. She told just about everyone else about her apartment, her job, her colleagues. Heck she told me about her coffee machine and she couldn't tell you where she lives! No, not couldn't, wouldn't. She made her decision long before she told you. She was just keeping you around for plan B."<br />
<br />
I was at loss of words. You'd think if my heart was a china shop she's the bull that ran rampage, but this is her picking up the pieces after. The bull had already left.<br />
<br />
"Look, I loved seeing you two together. It's the first time I actually saw you take pride in a relationship - not to say the ones you had were a shame. I just thought you two belonged together."<br />
<br />
"It was as real as it could get. For me at least."<br />
<br />
"... but like I told you, we're all looking for the next best thing. I say this for your own good, but I really hope she dumped you for another guy, because if she left you for reasons that is who you are right now..."<br />
<br />
"I know. Please don't finish that sentence." I've lost or had to gave up so many things. Her leaving was ice on a burnt cake.<br />
<br />
"You're gonna get through. You always do. But for now, you just have to give her up and let her go."<br />
<br />
"I know..."<br />
<br />
"And the first thing you're gonna do is gather up all her stuffs. Every physical thing that could remind you of her. You're gonna pack them nicely, and return it to her. Or at least her brother since she's never coming back."<br />
<br />
"Will you help?"<br />
<br />
"What do you think, dummy. Of course I'll help. Now can we please move outdoors. I need a puff." She stood abruptly and started to put on her shoes. I couldn't help but smile. What would I do without her.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16343318754417500635noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4054726245026374215.post-37825317067631219282016-09-19T20:25:00.000+08:002016-11-18T17:07:38.344+08:00Me and a Hundred Silenced Group<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiABhDXax4EtyR23rEPAfKvFkI78wiKmL9eUJoLH1EQqSwfdaXTAlyY8lWhH2ojcHtR1mNRCL4cV_eWQZ0edIFuT31r0oee0VOtWcCNkMlfsg8vNgxyUM1RgYO9PM4XC7hW4nTNSGGCn-s/s1600/whatsapp011.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="295" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiABhDXax4EtyR23rEPAfKvFkI78wiKmL9eUJoLH1EQqSwfdaXTAlyY8lWhH2ojcHtR1mNRCL4cV_eWQZ0edIFuT31r0oee0VOtWcCNkMlfsg8vNgxyUM1RgYO9PM4XC7hW4nTNSGGCn-s/s320/whatsapp011.png" width="320" /></a></div>
Well I overexaggerate.. I have 31 WhatsApp group. Yes, <b>THIRTY ONE</b>! I counted once, twice, three times to make sure. Some of you may have less, some of you may have more. I can't speak for you, but me, I've silenced over half of them - for a year. When I do go about clearing the notifications, I would rarely read. I simply tap and hold, and tap clear all messages.<br />
<br />
"... why not just leave?"<br />
<br />
Because the group was *<i>sceptically</i>* work related, event related etc. etc. I get pop-up notifactions everytime a message in WhatsApp. I would glance to find someone selling something or another, and would simply brush it off.<br />
<br />
"... what if there are important bits of information"<br />
<br />
... which is directly related to me, people would text me personally or give me a call.<br />
<br />
It annoys me most when I get friends promoting one of their products or services. All the "<i>alternatives ways to remove fat, pm me</i>" and "<i>promotion promotion, rm xxx only</i>", I literally clear them off. Yes, even if you're sitting next to me.<br />
<br />
Why? The same reason you would toss promotional leaflets into bins. There is NO PERSONAL TOUCH. Fine, you say you're casting the net wide, I'll say throw a good lure and catch a bigger fish.<br />
<br />
You say 'help me promote'; then please, word it personally. I would gladly go to my other WhatsApp group and say 'hey, a friend of mine is selling this and this, anyone of you here care to take a look?" IF and ONLY IF you personally ask me '<i>Hey Rool, could you do me a favor and help me promote this product that I have?</i>'<br />
<br />
I'm not saying I'm The Majesty that you have to PERSONALLY ask for favor. If we're friends in the first place, it shouldn't be much of an effort to ask, would it? Add a little compliment here and there, maybe start off with a joke, make me feel like I'm receiveing a message from a friend rather than a text promoting whatever!<br />
<br />
You spent so much time typing out the longest wordiest text to promote your product, but took for granted the way you promote them. I'll let you in on a little secret - the best way to promote your product is to get people to ask about it.<br />
<br />
"Hey, you know what, I'm starting a book," you say. Any socially competent person, especially a friend would ask you "What book?"<br />
<br />
Then you might want to say "Nah but you dont have a child. You might not be interested." That's already telling me that they target audience for the book are parents with children. What age? For boys, for girls? What is it about? I'm getting interested, even if I don't have a child.<br />
<br />
After a few exchanges, you say "So yeah. I'm actually selling it for RMxx. Do you mind spreading the word?"<br />
<br />
I would definitely say of course! I'll even write a blog about it!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16343318754417500635noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4054726245026374215.post-25777025523791492562016-09-19T00:04:00.000+08:002016-09-27T02:06:17.228+08:00Let's Drink to That<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1ckpQ977bJXIugv7__8uB7S7fmNS13Mt-n3jROO4sEReoERIOaDC3AmjDc4atxQklDlayJ958TrAq9AW9PWqWpO4PTaKJzOlPF4fi7DFL-PRky9cc1gSloIB3TnWdAxaVzRxQg2RCOjw/s1600/lifting-up-glass.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1ckpQ977bJXIugv7__8uB7S7fmNS13Mt-n3jROO4sEReoERIOaDC3AmjDc4atxQklDlayJ958TrAq9AW9PWqWpO4PTaKJzOlPF4fi7DFL-PRky9cc1gSloIB3TnWdAxaVzRxQg2RCOjw/s1600/lifting-up-glass.gif" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
"...look, whether it's another guy, a nice title on a new and fancy business card, fat salary, a new city.." she paused and took another swig of her beer. "... fact of the matter is that you got dumped ..."<br />
<br />
ouch..<br />
<br />
"... sure it was delivered calmly. You discussed about it. But was it you who said it's not working out? " She paused and casually took a stick out of the Pall Mall and brought it to her mouth. "Were you the one who gave up and said you've had enough?" Finally bringing the stick to her lips and lit it.<br />
<br />
I haven't said a word.<br />
<br />
"Yeah. In fact, you said that you yourself is in a shithole, and that you were hoping for her to be there waiting for you when you pull yourself out." She took a puff. "... to which she said 'I'm glad you got my message..' was it? She never answered. She's made a decision then."<br />
<br />
She looked at me. "Dude, she probably made a decision to leave you when she left here. Big fat salary, a nice title on her namecard, her own place. Let's not forget she's quite a looker too, fair skin, beautiful eyes."<br />
<br />
"hey!" that was a double-hit.<br />
<br />
"yeah no, I mean you're going through a tough time, and you do look good when you dress up. What I'm saying is at this very moment, she's climbing high and you're probably weighing her down so logically, she'd cut you off."<br />
<br />
"Is that what you think?" what-if's hurts, that's why I let other people ask it.<br />
<br />
"There could be another guy, I mean you dont have to tell me but just days - DAYS - after you broke up her social media lit up. I saw."<br />
<br />
I honestly don't think thats true. She took another puff.<br />
<br />
"I mean not a third person when you're together. Maybe she's decided to look for someone better than you." Half the cigarette was gone by now.<br />
<br />
"Remember what I told you? Don't hate someone or something so much, you'll most likely turn into that person or thing. Shit I must be drunk now." she took a long gulp and emptied her glass. "She hated her uncle, yes? For leaving the dog behind? Well, look at what she left you?"<br />
<br />
Even in her drunken stupor she deliver the most precise point. I flicked a tab to the bartender passing by to refill her glass. She puffed her ciggy and looked around.<br />
<br />
"Look.. you know me, and you know I'm not gonna stop until I've had my say. So you listen here." The bartender came with her beer and cleared our table which started to look like there's 7 of us drinking. "They asked you to stay in touch because the family knows you, yes?" I nodded. "When was the last time she said hi?" I thought back. "What about her brother? Did he bother to say sorry?"<br />
<br />
"Well he didn't do anything wrong," I quipped.<br />
<br />
"You prick. Not sorry as in to apologize. Sorry as in sympathy. I know it don't spread around thick among guys but if he's a guy he should know what it feels like too, right?"<br />
<br />
"Yeah..."<br />
<br />
"Instead he mocked you.. not in a bro-dude kinda way." Another puff and she went on speaking with smokes going out of her nosedrills, a vision of a mother dragon. "What I'm saying is that she doesn't mean it. Even if she does, remember what you said about exes?"<br />
<br />
"I don't keep them around."<br />
<br />
"Burn the bridge. Burn it to hell. You were dumped. Be sad about it, or dont. Be mad about it, or dont. Grieve, don't grieve. Cry, yell, shout, be silent, speak up, open up, bottle it in - do whatever you need to." She palmed the table to emphasize her point. "..take as much time as you need, go wherever you feel like going. You booked a nice holiday with her right? Go alone, go with friends - hell, take me! I've never been to Genting! Or don't go!"<br />
<br />
Pretty sure we're gaining some attention from other people in the pub by this time, but I got her point. Doesn't matter what I do, I just have to decide and stick to the decision.<br />
<br />
"The point is ..." I'll let her say it anyways "... you decide, you do, then you move on."<br />
<br />
I raised my glass and she met it with a loud clink. "Let's drink to that."Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16343318754417500635noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4054726245026374215.post-21001620631235734882016-08-16T21:09:00.000+08:002016-08-16T21:13:49.108+08:00Nukariik Represents at RWMF 2016I would actually go as far as calling it a theme for this year's Rainforest World Music Festival - but this is my own opinion. I counted 4 vocally-centered performers, and two-and-a-third (because Epi is part of a trio and) of them are throat singers. Each, however, has their own style and unique background that makes the variety all the more interesting.<br />
<br />
In this entry, I would like to focus on sisters Karin and Kathy Kettler. Together they form Nukariik, and coming from the Inuit Tribe. The both flew (on separate flights, one of which significantly longer than the other) from Canada to bring their Inuit throat singing, a little bit of drumming and a little game to the Rainforest World Music Festival Theatre Stage.<br />
<br />
If you've read my previous post on <b>RWMF'16 Highlights</b> <a href="http://qwertyreflect.blogspot.my/2016/08/rwmf-2016-highlights.html" target="_blank">here</a>, then you'll know how little time I had to prepare, do some Googling, listen to some of the performers music and decide on which workshop to go to. <a href="http://www.nukariik.ca/" target="_blank">Nukariik</a> was a simple choice - it's a must.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZUSWVGtDEFaodR-6mYW3I-2aq1jyApXkm7Tec3QhVIDVD046na1jXWGPUgO5rIEl0xzzvHO8GwYvrR6mPQzHVTUHkO8942L4M4Nl23dB9j8DJTNzvgpiudxoX9pLmfh4f6xlFfHTKuIM/s1600/me+and+nukariik.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZUSWVGtDEFaodR-6mYW3I-2aq1jyApXkm7Tec3QhVIDVD046na1jXWGPUgO5rIEl0xzzvHO8GwYvrR6mPQzHVTUHkO8942L4M4Nl23dB9j8DJTNzvgpiudxoX9pLmfh4f6xlFfHTKuIM/s320/me+and+nukariik.png" width="274" /></a></div>
On two occasions throughout the festival I had the chance to sit and talk with the sisters (or one of them - Karin I think; over dinner at the performer's and media area) and they are both so humble, so down to earth and so genuine. Their heritage is from the <a href="https://www.google.com.my/maps/place/Kangiqsualujjuaq,+QC,+Canada/@58.6985655,-66.0062228,13z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x4c47c0071c3fcc53:0x86ca24c53bfa9a4b!8m2!3d58.7101548!4d-65.9951159?hl=en" target="_blank">Kangiqsualujjuaq, Nunavik</a>, in northern Quebec - and I was told if I want to visit, middle of the year is probably best as it's not as cold as the rest of the year.<br />
<br />
(From a guy that has spent his whole life in the tropics, your definition of cold is probable equal to mine freezing even before landing! LOL)<br />
<br />
When asked about the origins of the Inuit throat singing, the sisters took turns explaining that it had begun as a pastimes and were inspired by the sounds that they hear all around them. Normally sang between two ladies while the men go hunting, the songs are <i>loosely</i> simple and rhythmic, consisting of one or more syllable or <i>sound</i> on the breath out, and another on a breath in. Harmonizing these simple rhythm produces an complex and sophisticated structure, and more often than not really represents what they are singing about.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8kKmJj10GHI&index=2&list=PLwR9Kod01Cpd3qPvgmY5mQDVGATyfJNow" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuuohdYkbbZsUessYXajLdgSizkq0EIbZq1eR7luesrFmncnrR_fqpm4vBLCHDth3Y06Lvh9itPlDn5LqscMxX5n3eGfQkduHiEdsjzePc8MVeR6pQNMhsahWHxkKt9iKe-t-xYrdu-pU/s400/The+Saw.png" width="400" /></a></div>
Case and point: The Saw.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">It really does sound like a saw going back and forth on a log!</span></div>
<br />
<br />
Another song that was equally captivating was the Song for Our Father. Also note that the duo likes to compete going back-and-forth trying to throw each other off the melody; and as a result almost all of their songs <i>accellerando</i> until one of them ran out of breath or burst into laughter.<br />
<br />
It's also very endearing to see such sisterly bond brought on-stage as they perform, and it does stay true to the root of the Inuit throat singing as well I presume - to bring people closer together.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gcFNH7uhZqA" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiogJ-EXRsfmBDqn3UjK00RCdkOzI_5bQjCUqwM38JSZ6_uRz0EqJ3zEllou88CeeAp132yJS8XGoQoiK5uqHG7SAWro7IFAQhmKLyYSUeQQfqFcFO7337u0fp0dq72VbU20Lr-rmPTh-4/s400/song+for+our+father.png" width="400" /></a></div>
Song for Our Father</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Do you recognize the melody? Comment if you do! </span></div>
<br />
<br />
What had captivated me most was the song about the <b>Inukshuk</b>, a monument made of raw stones that has multiple purposes. I guess back in the days when the land was so vast, travelling from one point to another is a challenge and whenever they can they will leave inuksuit (the plural form of inukshuk) to point to a direction or places where there is food. Sometimes inuksuit are erected as a monument to a loved ones too.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HhIXii2wJFs&list=PLwR9Kod01Cpd3qPvgmY5mQDVGATyfJNow&index=1" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="222" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfA36h2gJccXK5qzioDN3LWaEW03nFRo-CYSkb7JDHZZOpyrVme0ZszMZugc_dIDBntSfpOWtMtL_YxvaFDFwjCQ0k0Zub45YfQqNynDW0pxPGXzif0Dok2Xg832oc94yYrpwy5_SkmYI/s400/inukshuk.png" width="400" /></a></div>
Inukshuk</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Along with English translation!</span></div>
<br />
Later in the day as I caught up with a fellow blogger (<a href="http://www.lindysim.com/" target="_blank">Lindy</a>, show yourself please) once again I met the sisters at the Doodle wall! By then my camera had died and we were so engaged in conversation that we forgot to snap photos together! They even gave me a copy of the <b>Canada's Inuit Youth Magazine </b>before we part ways.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaR5NNBDr0qa-1p_9M40LfSkMZssHRZYrB7ajPeHXdhJbSwLmw83xirIZj4c3RNmJqcsoYQeWnVsruNZFNCGvxFwoaiS4owW1q2TUxnjbtvwMkjMWVSy-_5B5npNYHh5ig60gMO_HUVWI/s1600/P8161813.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaR5NNBDr0qa-1p_9M40LfSkMZssHRZYrB7ajPeHXdhJbSwLmw83xirIZj4c3RNmJqcsoYQeWnVsruNZFNCGvxFwoaiS4owW1q2TUxnjbtvwMkjMWVSy-_5B5npNYHh5ig60gMO_HUVWI/s320/P8161813.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Maybe we can learn something out of this.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYZlcKPK8ugSRdMfV4DkKlZxqBuGEVAX60icsC9yucOgogNMLUnqyi-AboxPXa-wXXaoZZPJ1xgwvgZYygcc7nE7RuMoTV0bY3e4dG8coGPMjMLFkErZw88WZO2uItnNAGeWvPAI886Hs/s1600/P8161819.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYZlcKPK8ugSRdMfV4DkKlZxqBuGEVAX60icsC9yucOgogNMLUnqyi-AboxPXa-wXXaoZZPJ1xgwvgZYygcc7nE7RuMoTV0bY3e4dG8coGPMjMLFkErZw88WZO2uItnNAGeWvPAI886Hs/s320/P8161819.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">They're in Inuit language, I think. <br />
Luckily there is an English translation too. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I've compiled the videos that I shot during their performance at this year's Rainforest World Music Festival into a YouTube playlist here. Enjoy it, and don't forget to SUBSCRIBE to my channel, press that LIKE button and SHARE it to all your friends and family.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HhIXii2wJFs&list=PLwR9Kod01Cpd3qPvgmY5mQDVGATyfJNow" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="222" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGKLvWmS5qlCdqWg1JUNkzccLJSJwHu6Qv3Kt0_n-GEz6t61Q8yC-n4HpdEMz2xLLQQLHQO89UDnWr_5WtbXtA90b-fZyR4c_XP8Z5Clmw_0xwHkmIX7W_poCZi8ZWcoFAny2NcS4dFX4/s400/playlist.png" width="400" /></a><span id="goog_1282764076"></span><span id="goog_1282764077"></span><a href="https://www.blogger.com/"></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Ladies, it had been a pleasure meeting you both. All the best in your next performances.<br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16343318754417500635noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4054726245026374215.post-36435490582862590612016-08-12T10:32:00.000+08:002016-08-12T10:32:20.383+08:00RWMF 2016 - The Highlights!It was a last minute invitation, I barely had any time to prepare and ended up with about 40 gigabytes of footage across the three days festival! It's a whole lot different this year - reorienting itself to be a family and kid-friendly event with workshops specifically designed for kids - the PUSAKA Bookaroo workshop.<br />
<br />
That said, I was at one (ok.. maybe more than one) of that workshop because hey, there's always a kid in each and every one of us, right? Can't argue with that! hahaha<br />
<br />
But This year's festival performers were extraordinary! Last year we witnesses <a href="http://asianitinerary.com/epi-and-the-secret-behind-mongolian-throat-singing-2/" target="_blank">Epi</a> with his secrets to Mongolian throat / overtone singing. This year he came as part of a trio ensemble Violons Barbares (translated as Barbaric Violins), and along with him are sisters Karin and Kathy Kettler as <a href="http://rwmf.net/performer/nukariik/" target="_blank">Nukariik</a> from Canada; and <a href="http://rwmf.net/performer/torgeir-vassvik/" target="_blank">Torgeir Vassvik</a> from Norway. For the more contemporary vocal experiences, <a href="http://rwmf.net/performer/vocal-sampling/" target="_blank">Vocal Sampling</a> was the crowd's favorite on the second night with their own rendition of Hotel California. This quintet performers carried no instruments with them, and relied solely on their vocals to draw out the sounds of different kinds of instruments!<br />
<br />
My personal favorite would be Nukariik. The sisters represents the Inuit tribe and brought along their Inuit heritage, in particular their throat singing which is very different from the other throat singers I mentioned before. Used in the old days as a mean to pass time, they sing to emulate the sounds they hear from around them, thus coming up with songs like the Mosquito, the Saw and the River.<br />
<br />
Like I said earlier, this is just the highlights. Head over to my <a href="https://youtube.com/khairooladzelan" target="_blank">channel</a> and click on the LIKE button on this video if you want to see a day to day highlight! Don't forget to share and SUBSCRIBE!<br />
<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ehXLfyKXQKw" width="560"></iframe>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16343318754417500635noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4054726245026374215.post-35745619995443351392016-06-30T11:07:00.000+08:002016-08-12T11:08:11.182+08:00Ramadhan @ BCCKFor so many years I've heard of the famous Floating Buffet at BCCK, Kuching. For so many years I thought about going. And for so many years I never actually went. When I did this year, I completely forgot about the Floating Buffet!<br />
<br />
I guess I'm a little traditional in that sense, to be seated at the table (and stay seated in conversation) before iftar. That's just me though, so when the buffet made it's grand entry, I was a little way off to get a good footage.<br />
<br />
That said, the rest of the servings that night was so grand, I wanted to taste each and every one of them - in very very small portions.<br />
<br />
Here are some of my favorites! Don't forget to click LIKE, SHARE and SUBSCRIBE!<br />
<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/wRB3DfBVscM" width="560"></iframe>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16343318754417500635noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4054726245026374215.post-68244559994819790702016-06-28T21:35:00.000+08:002016-08-04T21:40:17.408+08:00Gifting a piece of SarawakIf you've never been to Sarawak, you should know that one of the special must try here is the 'Kek Lapis Sarawak' or Sarawak Layer Cakes. What used to be a seasonal serving during the Eid seasons (the month following Ramadhan or fasting month) is now available all year round thanks to the popularity it had gained in West Malaysia.<br />
<br />
In the spirit of giving and remembrance, I decided to pop in to one of the famous Sarawak Layer Cake manufacturer (I think the word 'bakery' can also be used but it could be misleading as they don't bake bread or any other kind of cakes, I think). I got a few loafs of the most traditional ones that I could find and packed them up to be sent all the way to Malacca.<br />
<br />
Note that these cakes are usually hand baked. Other than the mixer, I suppose, all the layers are done manually. In the past 4 to 5 years, the 'woven' Sarawak layer cakes are very popular. The designs dont show in their loaf forms, but when cut into bite-sized pieces, they form designs of the <i>ketupat</i>, a type of sticky (or sometimes normal) rice in woven palm leaves; figures and numbers or even simple but mesmerizing brick forms.<br />
<br />
These kind loses popularity - almost a rare to be served as the process of making it is extremely tedious (imagine first baking the layers of different colours in separate baking trays, measuring, cutting and counting before putting the pieces together before baking the top and bottom layer once again) contributes to the cost and price. A 7 x 7" size of these cakes can go as high as RM 250 per cake.<br />
<br />
But anyways, parcel on the way, a couple of days later my friend received it and (hopefully with delight) enjoy with his family.<br />
<br />
Enjoy the video. Don't forget to hit <b><a href="https://www.youtube.com/c/khairooladzelan" target="_blank">SUBSCRIBE</a></b>!<br />
<br />
<br />
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/EMmB-YEVKTQ" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16343318754417500635noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4054726245026374215.post-63637540465086681632016-06-10T20:56:00.000+08:002016-08-04T21:40:29.573+08:00Living Separate LivesI've always considered blogging as a hobby - sometimes I do get paid for, sometimes I get free stuffs, opportunities and all that, and it's something I love doing on the side. That's why I kept it separate from what I do professionally.<br />
<br />
Then it hit me, I design websites. I manage social media. Why would I want to separate blogging from that? So hey, why not marry them together and make it a part of who I am and what I do?<br />
<br />
This is probably one of the longest videos that I shot - a whopping 20 minutes of elaborating not only on what I do but some of the projects I's handling right now. I actually approached all my clients first to get their consent because of the professional point of view, just to see if they have anything specific or particular to say about their websites.<br />
<br />
So here are a couple of links for you to follow:<br />
<ol>
<li>Miri Country Music Festival 2017 - <a href="http://miricountrymusic.com/">http://miricountrymusic.com</a></li>
<li>Animal Population Management Workshop 2016 - <a href="http://animalpopulationmanagement.com/">http://animalpopulationmanagement.com</a><br />Nymbble, my company, is co-sponsoring the event. </li>
<li>21st Joint Malaysia-Singapore Nursing Conference - <a href="http://21jointmsnc.com/">http://21jointmsnc.com</a></li>
</ol>
<div>
As per usual, head over to <a href="https://www.youtube.com/c/khairooladzelan" target="_blank">my channel</a> for more videos and hit that <b>SUBSCRIBE </b>for more updates. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/SDmX8Y8GhSg" width="560"></iframe>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16343318754417500635noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4054726245026374215.post-18585585653783306492016-06-06T20:44:00.000+08:002016-08-04T21:40:47.052+08:00Celebrating Ramadhan - Kuching StyleAlmost half the year is gone and Ramadhan is finally here. For all y'all who don't know, Ramadhan is the fasting month for all Muslims around the world. This means no food, no water and abstinence from any and every actions that will affect your fasting from sunrise to sunset. In certain countries fasting can last as little as 8 to 10 hours, to a whopping 20 hours a day.<br />
<br />
For me, since I've been observing Ramadhan since as long as I can remember, getting back into the motion of not eating and drinking throughout the day is not so much of a challenge than a change of pace. It's not to drastic too, I find.<br />
<br />
For others, symptoms of illness ranging from being drowsy to cramps and headache, stomach ache and the likes can occur. Different people reacts differently, I suppose.<br />
<br />
I'm also getting into the motion of getting a video out. Editing is one thing, rendering is another. Sometimes it takes 4 to 6 hours of render time for a video and I don't know why. Maybe my setting's messed up somewhere.<br />
<br />
But here's a little bit about Ramadhan from me and my plans for the immediate future. Don't forget to visit my channel <a href="https://www.youtube.com/c/khairooladzelan" target="_blank">here </a>and hit the <b>SUBSCRIBE </b>button!<br />
<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ry9tGys9fdI" width="560"></iframe>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16343318754417500635noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4054726245026374215.post-63372040216517234492016-06-02T20:29:00.000+08:002016-08-04T21:41:05.732+08:00Murder the CATS! GAAAAHHH!!It was a quiet day, not plans, no meetings, no urgent deadlines to catch, so I decided to throw on a pair of shorts and t-shirt to the studio. Little did I know I was aptly dressed what what awaits me there.<br />
<br />
The cats went ham at the trash! Perhaps it was a mistake to throw the kibble wrapper into the trash after all. So I did what I had to do. I murdered them.<br />
<br />
On top of that, just about a week ago they jumped on the shelf in my office and pushed a glass ornament to kiss the floor to a thousand pieces. While it was a simple glass ornament, it was a door gift during one of my best friend's wedding - the one I was best man in. So it kinda meant a lot to me.<br />
<br />
<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned data-instgrm-version="7" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:658px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:8px;"> <div style=" background:#F8F8F8; line-height:0; margin-top:40px; padding:50.0% 0; text-align:center; width:100%;"> <div style=" background:url(data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAACwAAAAsCAMAAAApWqozAAAABGdBTUEAALGPC/xhBQAAAAFzUkdCAK7OHOkAAAAMUExURczMzPf399fX1+bm5mzY9AMAAADiSURBVDjLvZXbEsMgCES5/P8/t9FuRVCRmU73JWlzosgSIIZURCjo/ad+EQJJB4Hv8BFt+IDpQoCx1wjOSBFhh2XssxEIYn3ulI/6MNReE07UIWJEv8UEOWDS88LY97kqyTliJKKtuYBbruAyVh5wOHiXmpi5we58Ek028czwyuQdLKPG1Bkb4NnM+VeAnfHqn1k4+GPT6uGQcvu2h2OVuIf/gWUFyy8OWEpdyZSa3aVCqpVoVvzZZ2VTnn2wU8qzVjDDetO90GSy9mVLqtgYSy231MxrY6I2gGqjrTY0L8fxCxfCBbhWrsYYAAAAAElFTkSuQmCC); display:block; height:44px; margin:0 auto -44px; position:relative; top:-22px; width:44px;"></div></div> <p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BDPM-IBl5er/" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">Kitteh chaos.. I had a pair now it'll be lonely. Least the memory is saved. #brokenglass</a></p> <p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A photo posted by Khairool Adzelan (@khairooladzelan) on <time style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;" datetime="2016-03-22T01:52:23+00:00">Mar 21, 2016 at 6:52pm PDT</time></p></div></blockquote>
<script async defer src="//platform.instagram.com/en_US/embeds.js"></script>
<br />
<br />
So I cut the throats of the kets... OF COURSE I'm kidding. I did gave them a cold bath to teach them a lesson.<br />
<br />
Don't forget to hit the <b><a href="https://www.youtube.com/c/khairooladzelan" target="_blank">SUBSCRIBE </a></b>button!<br />
<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/bJ-_HCJUM9o" width="560"></iframe>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16343318754417500635noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4054726245026374215.post-85835073580138870682016-05-24T20:01:00.000+08:002016-08-04T20:11:57.901+08:00The DriveI kinda have an idea of where I'm heading for with my channel. As with my blogs, I would usually pick one topic and write my thoughts about it. It could be of an event, an experience, a lifestyle, or just about any topics in general.<br />
<br />
I would have to point out that I rarely touch on 2 topics - politics and religion. It's just messy in my opinion, that once you do, it's difficult to come back from.<br />
<br />
Anyways, I thought about how I could do it. Drawing inspiration from James Cordon Carpool Karaoke, I thought I'd dive around and talk about things as I go. It's pretty interesting and a good direction, but I don't want to limit myself to just this.<br />
<br />
So here's to a start, getting the balls rolling, building momentum and to something new. Enjoy The Drive. Don't forget to click <b><a href="https://www.youtube.com/c/khairooladzelan" target="_blank">SUBSCIBE</a></b>!<br />
<br />
Much hearts <3 <3 <3<br />
<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/pTIHVslfJYM" width="560"></iframe>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16343318754417500635noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4054726245026374215.post-50895648768993838462016-05-23T19:56:00.000+08:002016-08-04T19:57:22.783+08:00Coming out of the Closet??zOMG!<br />
<br />
No no, this isn't a coming out post - it's more of a taking things out of the closet, like, <i style="font-weight: bold;">literally</i>. I have so much stuffs since god knows when that I either never wear/use, has no more use, or won't fit anymore.<br />
<br />
Also kind of to commemorate my moving from Blogger to YouTube. Of course I'll never stop writing, it's always been my passion. The motion of starting the write and let your mind wonder is still something I'm always passionate about (I do hope one of these days I'll start a book, but til then).<br />
<br />
So yeah, both YouTube and Blogger will be active and updated from time to time. Until then, here's a video of how I went and cleaned up my closet - something I should've done more frequently. Don't forget to <b><a href="https://www.youtube.com/c/khairooladzelan" target="_blank">SUBSCRIBE </a></b>to my channel!<br />
<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/U1BjHvS9e1M" width="560"></iframe>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16343318754417500635noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4054726245026374215.post-37353350873597551892016-05-20T19:43:00.000+08:002016-08-04T20:00:00.519+08:00I'm moving! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYEKBzx4JVNfgWbF1DH42Uboq23x0ZI8t1lXKuaj7qnh4Sd48kU4-S50K5BraNVQgEcPysxkk_okTobccRp40mHLqb8VyGaGwsJygZtVcIJmyrDYHPDukC1POhwxxS2IciesjMt9iY-RM/s1600/moving_platform.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYEKBzx4JVNfgWbF1DH42Uboq23x0ZI8t1lXKuaj7qnh4Sd48kU4-S50K5BraNVQgEcPysxkk_okTobccRp40mHLqb8VyGaGwsJygZtVcIJmyrDYHPDukC1POhwxxS2IciesjMt9iY-RM/s400/moving_platform.png" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Well, not literally. I do apologize for not keeping up with my contents lately. Not only have I been handling quite a substantial amount of responsibilities in regards to my business, but also a lot of shifts in life.<br />
<br />
My partner in crime, my other half, my SO whatever you prefer has pursued a new career in West Malaysia, so we're doing long distance. Business associates are also taking a different directions. Life, has to go on.<br />
<br />
As for me, having followed a number of YouTubers lately, I've convinced myself to move to a video format too. I mean I've had a YouTube channel since 2011 (<i>apparently</i>) so adding contents is just the matter of creating, editing and uploading a video (<i>it's more complicated than that but you know what I mean</i>).<br />
<br />
Plus it's a great change that I feel I need to take. In between busy life and busy work, and in hopes to not be too much of a nuisance to my other half by making too frequent of calls and texts, this is a great way to spend the time I have that we used to spend together.<br />
<br />
So, I hope that all you all continue your support and follow me on my YouTube channel. Just click on <a href="https://www.youtube.com/c/khairooladzelan" target="_blank">this link</a> and click on the <b>SUBSCRIBE </b>button. I'll be uploading a bunch of contents for your eyes, ears and mind to feed on.<br />
<br />
Much love <3 <3 <3Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16343318754417500635noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4054726245026374215.post-85692161143466725972016-05-04T18:34:00.001+08:002016-05-04T18:34:31.427+08:00Kuala Lumpur Branding: A Tin for Your Thoughts?OK I'm gonna go on a rant. I Literally don't have the time, but I MUST get this out of my system!<br />
<br />
What is it?<br />
<br />
THIS! A design that makes designers roll in their graves.<br />
<img align="middle" alt="Image linked from http://www.marketing-interactive.com/kl-citys-new-branding/" src="http://images.marketing-interactive.com.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/image-700x229.jpg" height="229" longdesc="http://www.marketing-interactive.com/kl-citys-new-branding/" width="700" /><br />
On 26th of April 2016, The Star's <a href="http://www.thestar.com.my/authors?q=%22Bavani+M%22" target="_blank">Bavani M</a> published an article on "<a href="http://www.thestar.com.my/metro/community/2016/04/26/new-brand-for-kl-mayor-identity-sums-up-citys-key-attributes/" target="_blank">New Brand for KL</a>". I honestly didn't even try to look for it - with Facebook and Twitter, we gets news and updates whether we want it or not - the good ones and the bad ones too. Unfortunately for me, this had made its way to my newsfeed. <br />
<br />
So at first, I thought to myself - damn that's what a logo would look like when it's done in Powerpoint with one of the WordArt templates. I didn't say anything. I didn't have to because I knew other netizens would voice out whatever I was thinking. <br />
<br />
I wasn't too farfetched with the Powerpoint WordArt template. Apparently the logo did came from a template. <a href="https://vulcanpost.com/author/shazni-ghani/" target="_blank">M. Shazni</a> of <a href="https://vulcanpost.com/574169/free-kl-logo/" target="_blank">Vulcan Post</a> will show you step-by-step how it's done.<br />
<br />
And this is the icing on the cake - guess how much tho logo costs? <b>RM 15k</b>! Yeap! A logo that was a result of a template costs RM 15,000! This is reported by Noraza Yusof, the city’s Tourism Bureau general manager. Here's the <a href="http://www.themalaymailonline.com/malaysia/article/controversial-kl-logo-costs-rm15000-says-city-hall" target="_blank">link</a>. <br />
<br />
I smell a big rat. Then again it could just be me and my nose. <br />
<br />
<h3>
NOT A FAN</h3>
Nope. I'm not a KL-ite, and I don't travel to KL very often. When I do, I rarely explore it's nooks and cranies to really appreciate what it offeres to those living in it and to those visiting. <br />
<br />
But I can say that this logo BARELY reflects KL itself. "<i>The colour silver for the word Kuala Lumpur was meant to reflect the city’s tin mining roots</i>" said Noraza. Wow. I totally get it, to reflect your root, your history, your past. That's fair. I mean, if not for this statement I would probably not have remembered that Kuala Lumpur started off as a tin mining town. <i><b>#bimbomoment</b></i><br />
<br />
But is there a physical legacy that's left behind? A tin mining museum on a site that was once a mine? Maybe a monument? I don't know. Maybe if you would comment some so I can probably visit next time I'm in KL that'd be awesome. It doesn't change the fact that the logo does not reflect that completely but at least one aspect of it did. <br />
<br />
And if that's what you want to put forth, then why choose '<b>exciting</b> . <b>surprising</b> . <b>enticing</b>' as your slogan? and not enough with just one, you have to have two slogans - <b>A City of Contrasts & Diversity</b>. It's confusing. "Noraza said <i>diverse cultures and the juxtaposition of old and new were among the city’s strengths, and the branding focused on those</i>". I say nope. <br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
nope.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
nope. <b>nope</b>. <b>nope</b>. </div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNxKUSN4c4s8Wfl4MTDP3jtNRI35bCXO0wSaCDfD_nQ964MiDypvBwi-_pGjImMPeO8sH6BbTZAefmCsdSPNgo3ZKw-UUNhzZbw0BJUq8vBowM-PKiLjwM51n7vz0x5na58DvBhR6jsoUf/s1600/michael-scott-no.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNxKUSN4c4s8Wfl4MTDP3jtNRI35bCXO0wSaCDfD_nQ964MiDypvBwi-_pGjImMPeO8sH6BbTZAefmCsdSPNgo3ZKw-UUNhzZbw0BJUq8vBowM-PKiLjwM51n7vz0x5na58DvBhR6jsoUf/s1600/michael-scott-no.gif" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Juxtaposition is a harmonic contrasting effect that is comfortable to the eyes. Look at the logo. Are your eyes comfortable? The sharp lines that made up the font "Kuala Lumpur" in all caps. The thin lines in the font of the words "exciting . surprising . enticing" in small caps. The thick font of the slogan "A City of Contrasts and Diversity". It's like looking at 3 different things in one. Owh yes they're contrasting alright, but they are NOT in harmony.<br />
<br />
And yes, while we're on the topic of fonts - 3 different fonts in 1 logo? It might work, given the right fonts - but in this case, my eyes hurt just looking at them. <br />
<br />
<h3>
I COULD GO ON FOR DAYS</h3>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://media.giphy.com/media/WfyP9ebBuovu0/giphy.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://media.giphy.com/media/WfyP9ebBuovu0/giphy.gif" width="320" /></a></div>
but like I said, I don't have the time, and I just want to get this out of my systems. The way I like to do things is while generating my own ideas, I look at how others do it. 7 billion people in the world, chances are someone out there has done it before you did, and you can learn something out of it. <br />
<br />
City branding has been around. KL is not the first in it's initiative. But I believe that they made an error or jumping the guns. The mindset of creating something first then attributing things to it is very common among us Malaysians. I'm not saying ALL, just common. Especially when it comes to logo. <br />
<br />
Why do I say this? Because it looks convenient. Why did we choose the colour silver? To represent tin mining history. Why 3 fonts? A juxtapose of old and new. Why 2 slogans? Because ... <br />
<br />
They say in order to love something, you have to know it first. When other cities began branding themselves, they study the aspects of what made it unique, and capitalise on that. <br />
<br />
Exciting? What is exciting about KL? I could only name just a few, others could name more, but the word 'exciting' don't reflect that. It's so generic! Even my back yard is exciting!<br />
<br />
Surprising? Again, so ambiguous. So generic. So common. <br />
<br />
Enticing? Nevermind. You get my point.<br />
<br />
A City of Contrasts and Diversity? But isn't every other cities in Malaysia like that? Come to Sabah, in KK, count 10 people, most likely they're from different race and religion. Come to Miri, probably the same. From Georgetown in the north to JB in the South, most likely the same too. <br />
<br />
Want a good slogan for a city? Look at these.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
Las Vegas - What happens in Vegas, Stays in Vegas </h3>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It's <i>provocative</i>. It's <i>epic</i>. It's <i>suggestive</i>. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
Increadinburgh </h3>
<div style="text-align: center;">
50-50 on this, but it's a good <i>play on words</i>. </div>
</div>
<div>
<br /><h3 style="text-align: center;">
California - Find Yourself Here </h3>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Upon reading this you wanna know more about it. That's <i>enticing</i>. </div>
</div>
<div>
<br /><h3 style="text-align: center;">
A Touch of the Exotic: Dumfries and Galloways, Scotland</h3>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
Ethiopia: Thirteen Months of Sunshine</h3>
<div style="text-align: center;">
You go <i>wtf</i>? 13 months? But don't you just want to check the facts?</div>
</div>
<div>
<br />Just to name a few. What do they have in common? They ARE exciting. They ARE surprising. They ARE enticing. And they don't put those words to show people that.<br /><br />
Here's a slogan that I would put: <i><span style="font-size: large;">We could be different, but we could be the same too</span></i>. What do you think? Got a better one? Leave a comment. It's a long shot but who knows it might replace the current one. <br />
<br />
<h3>
IT'S NOT JUST FOR THE TOURISTS</h3>
Another point that these people deciding on the branding may have overlooked is that the branding should also address its people. At the end of the day, the heart of the city is the people. If the people feel strongly against the logo, then listen to what they have to say. If there are too many, use the tools at your disposals. <b>Hashtags</b>, <b>wordclouds</b>, <b>sentiment analytic</b>, analyze the social media and gather indirect responses. These are the <i>meaningful ones</i>. <br />
<br />
And if you're not aware of this, then maybe you're not ready to be branded. </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16343318754417500635noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4054726245026374215.post-19455665066433059492016-03-04T17:38:00.001+08:002016-03-04T17:41:29.439+08:00Boojee af at MBO Cinema, The Spring<div class="MsoNormal">
This is a two for one – <i>minus the spoilers</i>. And there is a
slight chance of this post being <b>rated R</b> – not that I have a potty mouth but it’s
just that it fits the theme so, yolo! (lol who says yolo anymore?)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So many first times this time around. First time buying a
movie ticket 24 hours before the movie starts (<i>usually it’s a couple of hours
to literally minutes before showtime</i>), first time buying tickets at discounted
price (<i>thanks MBO!</i>), first time free popcorn (<i>thanks again MBO</i>), and first time
having an unobstructed view (<i>I’m <b>5ft 2</b>, the view is rarely clear from down here</i>).</div>
<div>
<br />
<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-version="6" style="background: #fff; border-radius: 3px; border: 0; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0 , 0 , 0 , 0.5) , 0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0 , 0 , 0 , 0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 658px; padding: 0; width: 99.375%;">
<div style="padding: 8px;">
<div style="background: #F8F8F8; line-height: 0; margin-top: 40px; padding: 50.0% 0; text-align: center; width: 100%;">
<div style="background: url(data:image/png; display: block; height: 44px; margin: 0 auto -44px; position: relative; top: -22px; width: 44px;">
</div>
</div>
<div style="margin: 8px 0 0 0; padding: 0 4px;">
<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BA_yCp3hYze/" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">MBO The Spring, Kuching are celebration its makeover this Saturday 30th Jan! We have loads of exciting activities and goodies to giveaway. Come and join us!</a></div>
<div style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;">
A photo posted by MBO Cinemas (@mbocinemas) on <time datetime="2016-01-26T09:05:40+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Jan 26, 2016 at 1:05am PST</time></div>
</div>
</blockquote>
<script async="" defer="" src="//platform.instagram.com/en_US/embeds.js"></script>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
Owh I almost forgot! First time on the <b>Premier seats</b> (<i>wow,
thanks again MBO for making it happen here</i>), and first time <b>NOT</b> having to
decide where to meet and hang out before showtime cuz we have the <b>Premier
Lounge</b> now (<i>have I not thanked MBO enough? Don’t make me sing</i> (comment down under
if you get the reference))</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>YAASSS!</b> Deadpool was amazeballs! Granted that some of the scenes
were deemed by the censorship board to be inappropriate and thus were cut off,
it doesn’t heavily affect the movie in general. As much as I want to talk about
it more, I hate revealing plotlines and spoilers (<i>come to think of it, now is a
good time to learn and implement some spoiler protection code snippets – but I
digress</i>).</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-version="6" style="background: #fff; border-radius: 3px; border: 0; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0 , 0 , 0 , 0.5) , 0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0 , 0 , 0 , 0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 658px; padding: 0; width: 99.375%;">
<div style="padding: 8px;">
<div style="background: #F8F8F8; line-height: 0; margin-top: 40px; padding: 50.0% 0; text-align: center; width: 100%;">
<div style="background: url(data:image/png; display: block; height: 44px; margin: 0 auto -44px; position: relative; top: -22px; width: 44px;">
</div>
</div>
<div style="margin: 8px 0 0 0; padding: 0 4px;">
<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BBobpdsBY7u/" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">Don't miss this.</a></div>
<div style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;">
A photo posted by MBO Cinemas (@mbocinemas) on <time datetime="2016-02-11T03:58:51+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Feb 10, 2016 at 7:58pm PST</time></div>
</div>
</blockquote>
<script async="" defer="" src="//platform.instagram.com/en_US/embeds.js"></script>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
I can guarantee you that it is just about everything I had anticipated. Honestly, after the whole <b>Ryan Reynolds Green Lantern</b> episode, I have my doubts. But <i>kudos </i>Ryan for redeeming yourself with Deadpool. (<i>I suppose most of our audience didn't get most of the one-liners and jokes littering the movie, but those who do were literally wheezing their breath!</i>)<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So instead, let’s be all <b>boojee</b> and class af with MBO! I was
there during their launching of the new and improved cinema experience,
incorporating a lifestyle habitat into itself.<b> First improvement</b>, moving the
ticket counter just beside the entrance to MBO Cinema, The Spring.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-version="6" style="background: #fff; border-radius: 3px; border: 0; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0 , 0 , 0 , 0.5) , 0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0 , 0 , 0 , 0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 658px; padding: 0; width: 99.375%;">
<div style="padding: 8px;">
<div style="background: #F8F8F8; line-height: 0; margin-top: 40px; padding: 50.0% 0; text-align: center; width: 100%;">
<div style="background: url(data:image/png; display: block; height: 44px; margin: 0 auto -44px; position: relative; top: -22px; width: 44px;">
</div>
</div>
<div style="margin: 8px 0 0 0; padding: 0 4px;">
<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BBJgTJyl5RH/" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">Creating the lifestyle experience in cinema with MBO. #TheSpring #MBOCinemy #MBOmy</a></div>
<div style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;">
A photo posted by Khairool Adzelan (@khairooladzelan) on <time datetime="2016-01-30T03:43:02+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Jan 29, 2016 at 7:43pm PST</time></div>
</div>
</blockquote>
<script async="" defer="" src="//platform.instagram.com/en_US/embeds.js"></script>
</div>
<div>
<br />
<div>
<div>
<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-version="6" style="background: #fff; border-radius: 3px; border: 0; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0 , 0 , 0 , 0.5) , 0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0 , 0 , 0 , 0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 658px; padding: 0; width: 99.375%;">
<div style="padding: 8px;">
<div style="background: #F8F8F8; line-height: 0; margin-top: 40px; padding: 50.0% 0; text-align: center; width: 100%;">
<div style="background: url(data:image/png; display: block; height: 44px; margin: 0 auto -44px; position: relative; top: -22px; width: 44px;">
</div>
</div>
<div style="margin: 8px 0 0 0; padding: 0 4px;">
<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BBJg71Iqrjr/" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">My breakfast... while waiting everybody to come... #mbo #kuching #makeover #wheretogo #movie</a></div>
<div style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;">
A photo posted by Aliey Eyezie (@ntgravity) on <time datetime="2016-01-30T03:48:36+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Jan 29, 2016 at 7:48pm PST</time></div>
</div>
</blockquote>
<script async="" defer="" src="//platform.instagram.com/en_US/embeds.js"></script>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
It’s a great improvement because now the line is <i>literally</i>
separated from the food concession area. Back then when there are a lot of
patrons, it’s sometimes difficult to distinguish where the line for what is
(<i>did I mention I am <b>5ft 2</b>? I’d carry a balloon so my friends don’t lose me in
the crowd but I’m also pushing 30!</i>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<a class="embedly-card" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguHoLzV0bDfhhsQE9C-ww4YNkI8pO09rDwUf0lJBhcTvjOIm3_smFgV4Nifd9Ks6EAjciLuzstg3J5docUj3641vww0b1xFjKE2fSAbNj0fl7ZXPM2IL1xzJGMgQGZO9d9IISA3EcT_3aA/s1600/IMG_3979.JPG">Card</a>
<script async="" charset="UTF-8" src="//cdn.embedly.com/widgets/platform.js"></script>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
But people, when you’re not in line, don’t stand in line. Generally,
anywhere, don’t do this.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In place of the old ticketing counters, is the second
improvement. <b>Cafecito</b>, a quaint little coffee corner (<i>eh, that rhymes – sort of</i>)
serves a menu of hot and chilled drinks, soft drinks, coffee, tea and snacks
that you can enjoy pre- or post-movie.</div>
<div>
<br />
<a class="embedly-card" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7mfrw-h_oeZvsVBG7VBSm0YUmRGpQSQmPc_sx4VEIzEpW38ivEeraUOE2pXt6K-IO_WZOYODpLYWXBY0vLBkk5dSlApPYXo-rGt__2IlnGqjseCnjuFH4jcepAth9hJlXUR6fa2Gn9XQN/s1600/20160130_132145.jpg">Card</a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-version="6" style="background: #fff; border-radius: 3px; border: 0; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0 , 0 , 0 , 0.5) , 0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0 , 0 , 0 , 0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 658px; padding: 0; width: 99.375%;">
<div style="padding: 8px;">
<div style="background: #F8F8F8; line-height: 0; margin-top: 40px; padding: 50.0% 0; text-align: center; width: 100%;">
<div style="background: url(data:image/png; display: block; height: 44px; margin: 0 auto -44px; position: relative; top: -22px; width: 44px;">
</div>
</div>
<div style="margin: 8px 0 0 0; padding: 0 4px;">
<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BBKjgcAKrlo/" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">Tokey balak nunggu di #mbo #kuching hahahaha</a></div>
<div style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;">
A photo posted by Aliey Eyezie (@ntgravity) on <time datetime="2016-01-30T13:30:18+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Jan 30, 2016 at 5:30am PST</time></div>
</div>
</blockquote>
<script async="" defer="" src="//platform.instagram.com/en_US/embeds.js"></script></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
I’m glad they opened up that area for patrons to wait
around. Mostly excited about the <b>Affogato</b> (<i>it’s surprisingly good, minus
presentation</i>) and <b>Pretzel Pieces</b> (<i>twice I went, these were still not available
but patience, I shall be back</i>).</div>
<div>
<br />
<a class="embedly-card" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQsLWHvlkF5b9-c1zqmXjk19bem7zsVCy5vJlmgLYItui-m61oHBfoz422mVGCaz385v8wHuHYAvdKy-N7SB9iXnXd0k2CYTsyUB_DKk4px8Nta65oKzlPOL1xMxY2fKNhmMCszEHUql9E/s1600/20160130_132153.jpg">Card</a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Next improvement, the<b> Premier Lounge</b>. <i>Yassss</i>, a lounge that
you can hang out in, and order drinks and snacks from (<i>you can bring them into
the <b>Premier Seats </b>which we’ll get into after this</i>), along with WC so you can
freshen up (<i>cuz y’know, you have to look good watching a good movie</i>).</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div>
<br />
<a class="embedly-card" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwLEVz-cTWsTiP7ftWm5-m6h1vLpwo7KVqpYZDe3XZisrtn99Wzx3Qjho0ni1g5um3JQqjvIgqSxXWypy2B0R_ri-u5Q0xicDmMQZQ7pBhD_y72OJeFuR8uvoWik9HNfS38fOnK2-4PO1K/s1600/IMG_3769.JPG">Card</a>
<script async="" charset="UTF-8" src="//cdn.embedly.com/widgets/platform.js"></script>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOlwpqj_uS1E3sBcKNhnb2nJSAYuFkpIYceajkejSAcLEJqtRb3FwbQUxgtTj3BXrRoji1E1ecPpxVTgeGLNDoVQ_ZR3k0GhvTXOUg5Xl3g2yc0mBpUORNogshgCJ2T5VJ4q-EWuHceT4/s1600/Group.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOlwpqj_uS1E3sBcKNhnb2nJSAYuFkpIYceajkejSAcLEJqtRb3FwbQUxgtTj3BXrRoji1E1ecPpxVTgeGLNDoVQ_ZR3k0GhvTXOUg5Xl3g2yc0mBpUORNogshgCJ2T5VJ4q-EWuHceT4/s400/Group.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
And<i> yyaaassss</i> for <b>Premier Seats</b>! Thank you so much MBO for
making it happen! It’s the first and only <b>Premier Seat Cinema</b> in (<i>I believe</i>)
the<b> whole of Sarawak</b> (so far). What’s the diff? Well, other than access to the
<b>Premier Lounge</b> itself, the <b>Premier Seats</b> are placed at the back of hall number
5, MBO Cinema, The Spring.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><i>Hold up! At the back? Boy the view must suck!</i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Hear me out boys n girls, the view<b> cannot </b>be better! The
<b>Premier Seats</b> are<i> elevated</i> (<i>probably about a storey higher than the normal
seats</i>) with each rows elevated <b>much higher</b> than the normal seats. For people
like me (<i>I’m sure I’ve mentioned that I’m <b>5ft 2</b>?</i>) this means no partial heads –
or even full heads between me and the screen! (<i>if your thoughts go to the
gutter at that sentence, get it out. <b>Now</b>. If not, stay innocent LOL!</i>)<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a class="embedly-card" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi16g39trPUoBb1XtQHUvPy_k4eNk0ppTHmZWrd8FvtoE-hVQHIYpvXkf3CBOmzBNSZhlKK4BNUs7IhF_pzvAi5o-FTNwwX4byoJc-23u_DJCWNRUKaLjp9z45GdF2Yxpk6O7rkoZ2bjpFx/s1600/mbo+hall5.jpg">Card</a>
<script async="" charset="UTF-8" src="//cdn.embedly.com/widgets/platform.js"></script>
<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Something worth noting is that with the<b> Premier Ticket</b>, you
can enter the <b>Premier Lounge</b> a whole lot earlier even before your showtime, <b>totally
bypassing the crowd</b> (<i>I felt boojee af with those tickets in my hand and slightly
annoying the people in queue – which btw does NOT look like a queue because a
lot of people don’t understand the concept of queuing #siderant</i>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-version="6" style="background: #fff; border-radius: 3px; border: 0; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0 , 0 , 0 , 0.5) , 0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0 , 0 , 0 , 0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 658px; padding: 0; width: 99.375%;">
<div style="padding: 8px;">
<div style="background: #F8F8F8; line-height: 0; margin-top: 40px; padding: 37.5% 0; text-align: center; width: 100%;">
<div style="background: url(data:image/png; display: block; height: 44px; margin: 0 auto -44px; position: relative; top: -22px; width: 44px;">
</div>
</div>
<div style="margin: 8px 0 0 0; padding: 0 4px;">
<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BBofv0Jl5Ua/" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">Where we gonna be tonight? #movienight @mbocinemas! What are we watching? #Deadpool. Which hall? Premier Hall number 5! What are we in for? Recliner seats and #Auro3D sound system! Where are we meeting? Premier Hall Lounge! What are we doing while waiting? #eatallthecakes</a></div>
<div style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;">
A photo posted by Khairool Adzelan (@khairooladzelan) on <time datetime="2016-02-11T04:34:40+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Feb 10, 2016 at 8:34pm PST</time></div>
</div>
</blockquote>
<script async="" defer="" src="//platform.instagram.com/en_US/embeds.js"></script>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
So yeah, there I was, seated the the <b>most comfortable seats</b>
in a cinema I’ve ever had, <b>reclined to the most perfect angle</b>, enjoying the
<b>widest screen ever</b> with <b>Auro 3D sound systems that’s super immersive</b>, sipping
my cup to <b>Affogato </b>with <b>Gourmet popcorn</b>, watching one of the <b>most anticipated</b>
movie of 2016, <b>Deadpool</b>.<br />
<br />
I’d post a photo of me looking <b>boojee af</b> in the above paragraph (<i>which I may or may not have</i>) but I believe camera’s and photographing is prohibited. The next best things I can do is say <b>go get </b>yourself the experience of watching a movie in the <b>Premier Hall</b> (<i>that’s hall number 5, ask for Premier Tickets</i>). If you happen to be watching <b>Deadpool</b>, stay til the end – <i>literally</i>. This is Marvel, you know what’s coming. </div>
</div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16343318754417500635noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4054726245026374215.post-58680818738361200872015-12-20T15:15:00.000+08:002016-03-04T17:46:16.229+08:00Whatever you do, STAY UNDER ARMOUR. #IWill<div style="text-align: center;">
If you think you’re safe from those disgusting armpit sweat
(some people find it sexy, hey I ain’t one to judge), you’re wrong. Protect
yourself, stay Under Armour. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Those new sports apparel you’re donning keeps you cool?
Nothing does the job better. Stay cool, stay Under Armour. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Exercise, chill, sweat, weather, whatever the elements you’re
in, stay Under Armour. Protect this house. #IWill.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxJ-UYhnAizKAp9WAzVc4hRkZMEmiCL6QuULmfBa0apSOWezx6lgIqkizpXzRjreQq3k00Erw2ZoSnNXsaxFx7RpbKTc6gnFQehHLJpCNo0Qi9qmjPrE_m76WspVW3kptAkL0xWERli7Y/s1600/DSC_0660.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxJ-UYhnAizKAp9WAzVc4hRkZMEmiCL6QuULmfBa0apSOWezx6lgIqkizpXzRjreQq3k00Erw2ZoSnNXsaxFx7RpbKTc6gnFQehHLJpCNo0Qi9qmjPrE_m76WspVW3kptAkL0xWERli7Y/s320/DSC_0660.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Yasssss! I don’t usually start my blog with an ad-campaign,
but there’s a first time for everything. Cheesy as it seems, as I was
scribbling away the draft, I imagine a danger element like bullets and guns and
stuffs, and instead of going under cover, I was going Under Armour! Get it?!
And instead of bullets and guns and stuffs (cuz we don’t want to promote violence),
it was metals and weights clanging, and ropes and chains and stuffs!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Eh get your head of the gutter! I was referring to heavy
ropes and chains in gyms!<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://a248.e.akamai.net/f/248/9086/10h/origin-d4.scene7.com/is/image/Underarmour/151201_RFH_UK_HP_SEC_TRAINING?&scl=1" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://a248.e.akamai.net/f/248/9086/10h/origin-d4.scene7.com/is/image/Underarmour/151201_RFH_UK_HP_SEC_TRAINING?&scl=1" height="209" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.underarmour.com.my/en-my/" target="_blank">Under Armour Online Shop</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
An even bigger YAAASSSS!!! To Under Armour for landing
(finally) in Kuching. I have heard of the brand in good reviews over the past
few months and was able to pop into their outlet when I was in KL, looking
specifically for swimming gears – pool, not beach.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
And on December 16, 2015, I was invited to their press
conference ceremony of opening a shop in shop here in Kuching. Another YAAASSSS!!!!
goes to LEA Sports Center for paving the platform for Under Armour’s arrival in
Kuching.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoRYtFOx5ddxjAJl1S9BeIHChntOTY5b9alafDU7bIoaOOiOVuxLYHnYkIKLM283ajIdkLaqQhjbO0yxv0FYboOYTUzW_KRSX9aybGPcdYKpVOrMObNRG94wj4Z7A3dqbQ8p2azzhrjS3A/s1600/signing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="144" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoRYtFOx5ddxjAJl1S9BeIHChntOTY5b9alafDU7bIoaOOiOVuxLYHnYkIKLM283ajIdkLaqQhjbO0yxv0FYboOYTUzW_KRSX9aybGPcdYKpVOrMObNRG94wj4Z7A3dqbQ8p2azzhrjS3A/s1600/signing.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Signing Ceremony: Mr Michael Binger, CEO, Under Armour and from left: Mr Raymond Sim, MD, LEA Group of Companies, Mr Stephen Onn, The Gym Box, and Mr Dan Ling, Pheonix Gym.<br />
Picture courtesy of <a href="http://ntgravityzone.blogspot.my/" target="_blank">NTGravity Zone</a>. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/"></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
But alas, I was mildly disappointed to hear that Under
Armour focusses on footwear and dry-land apparel. It’s not to say they don’t
have any swim gears at all, it’s just not a lot. Then again I was comparing to
major swim gear brands, so it’s not really that fair. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
But hold up, who’s to say I don’t run and I don’t gym? Cuz I’mma
be so sassy about it LOL! Having visited their outlet in KL, and taken a view
at their shop in shop located at LEA Sports Center, Sarawak Plaza, I’ve taken a
liking to one line in particular – the Alter Ego line. Don’t know what that is?
I’ll tell ya. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If you’re into Superman, The Avengers, Captain America, and
Star Wars, Under Armour has a seasonal line dedicated and released together
with the movies. So you don’t just train like a superhero, but also LOOK like a
superhero while you’re at it. More perks, extra cooling technology driven
cutting edge apparel that fits you like a glove so you can train longer and
harder.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
That, and the fact that my online alter ego is literally alteredego, just sums it all up.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Don’t stay Under Armour alone. Protect this house together.
#IWill</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Yaaassss #ICantEven right now. Why? Because in Kuching,
Under Armour is partnering up with The Gym Box and Phoenix Gym. If you’re
already a member of those gyms, ask around for perks. I’m sure there will be
plenty. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
And if you’re not a member of those gyms yet, may me remind
you of your 2016 resolution? And your past resolution for 2015, or even 2014
for that matter? Yep, I’m bold, I’m blunt, but that aside, am I right? Go get
you a** in shape. Get Under Armour. Protect this house. #IWill. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">p/s: you may interpret it however you like, but as for me
when I hear “Protect this house”, my first interpretation of “house” is my
body. And with that, I hope that my writings make sense. </span><o:p></o:p></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16343318754417500635noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4054726245026374215.post-75267288898268406232015-11-03T14:53:00.004+08:002015-11-03T14:53:45.870+08:00Sometimes a break is what you need<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsK86EYQjRAn52l7xdJMARFh0dZWOTfjdO-aw1dLUukDfUAk7GOYAOlI3rFsbMZpWAe3fmhDtQHW3t_l53hhYo-DW-0Dbh6VqfOg3yokV84Vvg58OV3fyMp6Wla_WQSfL3J0YNSPFyTuw/s1600/IMAG4384.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsK86EYQjRAn52l7xdJMARFh0dZWOTfjdO-aw1dLUukDfUAk7GOYAOlI3rFsbMZpWAe3fmhDtQHW3t_l53hhYo-DW-0Dbh6VqfOg3yokV84Vvg58OV3fyMp6Wla_WQSfL3J0YNSPFyTuw/s400/IMAG4384.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
I've always held a <b>positive</b> attitude to a fault. Yes, there are times that I go <i>pessimistic</i>, hey you gotta find that balance between things right? And the saying there's always a <b>silver lining</b> on a grey cloud? Yeap, it's true. If you're under one and haven't found your <b>silver lining</b>, look harder. Trust me, it's there. And sometimes, a <i>break </i>is what you need to help you see.<br />
<br />
At least, that was what exactly happened to me.
This '<i>break</i>', or '<i>vacation</i>' or '<i>timeout</i>' was completely unplanned. I had <b>no say</b> on where to go, what to or or even things to eat. Being dragged around with little to no energy (due to <i>insomnia</i>), sleeping in 3 different hotels over the course of 4 nights, no cash in my pocket because of late payments, a '<i>break</i>', '<i>vacation</i>' or '<i>timeout</i>' is a farfetched.<br />
<br />
But lemme tell you what I am - I am a <b>teamplayer</b>. I don't complain during, and rarely after - i.e. this post. But complaining isn't what this post is about.<br />
<br />
It's about that <b>silver lining</b>.<br />
<br />
I was <i>bummed</i> <i>out</i> by a whole lot of things over the past few weeks. Rescheduled meetings, unclosed business negotiations, cancelled luncheons, makes me, as someone who looks forward to making my own mark in this world, feel very <b>unappreciated</b>. Trust me, to be taken <i>lightly</i>, it's one of the worst feeling I've ever felt. I want to serve my clients as best as possible, but between rescheduled meetings (over car service or another meeting whatever) and delayed payments, between quotation requests that was never closed or confirmed, I felt too <span style="font-size: x-small;">small</span> to make an impact that these businesses takes me a little too <i>lightly</i>.<br />
<br />
A break, that <b>silver lining</b> shine through.<br />
<br />
And shine it did. This is the <i>business</i> world. This is the <i>business</i> community. This is professionalism. Not complaining, not whine (luckily I don't drink cuz I'd love some cheese and crackers with that) about anything and everything. Action. Grasp the nettle.<br />
<br />
And that's not all. This moment, this very moment when I saw that <b>silver lining</b>, is also like being in the eye of the storm. I'm not sure if this is literally true, but in the movies where there's a tornado, in the center is always <b>calm</b>, while the <b>chaos</b> and <b>turmoil</b> surrounds. This is how I feel right now. And I can't wait to get back.<br />
<br />
Listen, if you ever find yourself stuck, remember why you do what you do in the first place. Find your <b>silver lining</b>, there is always one. And have <i>faith</i>, be <i>strong</i>, put your heart and soul into it, and you're sure to find the rainbow on the other side. I sure see mine so clearly now. Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16343318754417500635noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4054726245026374215.post-46127555808159648442015-10-12T16:46:00.001+08:002015-10-12T16:46:24.936+08:00Touched by NomadsThis post, I admit, along with keeping my blog updated, is long overdue. Perhaps as Ronnie would put it, suffering from PTSD or Post Traumatic Stefan and Sebatien Syndrome. Yeap, this post is dedicated to these two nomad lads whom touched the hearts of Kuchinglites all over.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QUT77gf2XLY/VhtrQfZtPeI/AAAAAAAAlDE/dYNYHplW2K4/s1600/IMG-20150804-WA0020.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QUT77gf2XLY/VhtrQfZtPeI/AAAAAAAAlDE/dYNYHplW2K4/s320/IMG-20150804-WA0020.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Passionate, full to the brim with life, love and a touch of curiosity that rival cats, this duo is definitely one of a kind. What had began with enquiries on the Rainforest World Music Festival 2015, who to talk to and what to expect, in now a heartfelt friendship and no words are truer than true when they say distance makes the heart grow fonder.<br />
<br />
2 weeks, more or less, was how long I had to show them the different sights and smells, and yes tastes to, of what Kuching city had to offer. Lucky me friends like Al, Aldric, Joash (who is on the way to becoming a supermodel), Sarah, Aliph, Hani and Mark to help out. And a very special thanks to Ronnie who introduced us (you didn't think I'd forget about you, did you?).<br />
<br />
After getting acquainted with Malaysian culture in the peninsular, Sebastien and Stefan got another refresher course upon touching down in Kuching city. Barely an hour in, already we were at one of the biggest food festival (dare I say) in Sarawak, hunting for Laksa (the Sarawak Laksa to be precise) and Mee Kolok. Yeap, these are the local delicacies that is a must try! I also made them try the Durian Puffs, creamy and oh so succulent, a puff pastry filled with cream made from the king of of fruits - Durian.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-A0pGdKhgZuk/Vhtr6X3KKkI/AAAAAAAAlC0/LPAiL18LR6M/s1600/IMG-20150819-WA0014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-A0pGdKhgZuk/Vhtr6X3KKkI/AAAAAAAAlC0/LPAiL18LR6M/s320/IMG-20150819-WA0014.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Did you really just took a bite out of that? REALLY?? Hahahaha</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Since the food festival that commemorates Kuching gaining the status of a City lasts for the whole month of August, it's no surprise that most of our get-together sessions were at the festival grounds, asking and answering questions, trading opinions between mouthfuls of noodles, satay and ice creams.<br />
<br />
I believe the timing of their stay could not be any more perfect. Other than the incident where one of tyre blew out and we were stranded for a bit on the road (Sebastien was buffet for mosquito), everything else was just right. August this year was also the month of Syawal for Muslims, and lemme tell you this, there is nowhere else in Malaysia that flaunts Kek Lapis (Layered Cakes) as much as Sarawakians does. Thankfully, like a silver lining on a grey cloud, because of the tyre incident, I was able to invite them to my house for an introduction to my family and a round of Kek Lapis (yeap, more eating)<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wWL9x2X9jRw/VhtrR1HDv4I/AAAAAAAAlAE/wWbQN-2yIwI/s1600/IMG-20150807-WA0013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wWL9x2X9jRw/VhtrR1HDv4I/AAAAAAAAlAE/wWbQN-2yIwI/s400/IMG-20150807-WA0013.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stefan and Sebastien with my family and some of the Kek Lapis they tasted.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Stefan, Sebastien, I just wanted to say, remember when we went to Bau, Mark as our tourguide? We walked through the Fairy Cave - which you both initially thought was a joke ^^. Remember? I am still recovering from the sunburn! The tanktop marks are still quite visible on my shoulders and chest! While it was a good idea to wear it because it was hot, a t-shirt would've been a better choice I reckon.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BpjOC-6a2Y4/VhtrrYudGXI/AAAAAAAAlBk/qD7tYfyhy34/s1600/IMG-20150819-WA0004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BpjOC-6a2Y4/VhtrrYudGXI/AAAAAAAAlBk/qD7tYfyhy34/s400/IMG-20150819-WA0004.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Exploring the Fary Cave with Mark. Thanks for the tour bro!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Then there was also that round of coffee at MK Classico, where they had, erm.. if memory serves me correctly, a Green Tea cake.. or was it a Gola Apong (Palm Sugar) cake? Did we have both, Stefan? Ronnie, do you remember? Al, we definitely had anchovy fritter, yes? Hani was there too? And Joash and Sarah! That was so much fun.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zhdNbvXv2CI/VhtrhKz9GSI/AAAAAAAAlA0/XbE-oJyMovQ/s1600/IMG-20150816-WA0005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zhdNbvXv2CI/VhtrhKz9GSI/AAAAAAAAlA0/XbE-oJyMovQ/s400/IMG-20150816-WA0005.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I honestly have no idea what Joash and I were posing after.. HAHAHAH!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Honestly, two weeks is barely enough time to spend getting to know someone. It is, however, enough to start a lifelong friendship. And I have a feeling that this is one of those friendship that's gonna last for years and years. And honestly, what is distance with all the technologies that we have today. It's just the matter of picking up the phone, making that call or sending that text. So, Stefan and Sebastien, here's one for our friendship. Thank you for touching our hearts.<br />
<br />
<br />
<ul class="hoverbox">
<li>
<a href="https://goo.gl/photos/pPyjfmwsc4FnD5N56"><img alt="description" src="http://bit.ly/1MrjF5m" /><img alt="description" class="preview" src="http://bit.ly/1MrjF5m" /></a>
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://goo.gl/photos/pPyjfmwsc4FnD5N56"><img alt="description" src="http://bit.ly/1Pprw48" /><img alt="description" class="preview" src="http://bit.ly/1Pprw48" /></a>
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://goo.gl/photos/pPyjfmwsc4FnD5N56"><img alt="description" src="http://bit.ly/1LDjkaG" /><img alt="description" class="preview" src="http://bit.ly/1LDjkaG" /></a>
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://goo.gl/photos/pPyjfmwsc4FnD5N56"><img alt="description" src="http://bit.ly/1K3Hha9" /><img alt="description" class="preview" src="http://bit.ly/1K3Hha9" /></a>
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://goo.gl/photos/pPyjfmwsc4FnD5N56"><img alt="description" src="http://bit.ly/1MmMVWo" /><img alt="description" class="preview" src="http://bit.ly/1MmMVWo" /></a>
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://goo.gl/photos/pPyjfmwsc4FnD5N56"><img alt="description" src="http://bit.ly/1LfTQAN" /><img alt="description" class="preview" src="http://bit.ly/1LfTQAN" /></a>
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://goo.gl/photos/pPyjfmwsc4FnD5N56"><img alt="description" src="http://bit.ly/1MrkhYH" /><img alt="description" class="preview" src="http://bit.ly/1MrkhYH" /></a>
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://goo.gl/photos/pPyjfmwsc4FnD5N56"><img alt="description" src="http://bit.ly/1R6F9Ue" /><img alt="description" class="preview" src="http://bit.ly/1R6F9Ue" /></a>
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://goo.gl/photos/pPyjfmwsc4FnD5N56"><img alt="description" src="http://bit.ly/1OsZUvO" /><img alt="description" class="preview" src="http://bit.ly/1OsZUvO" /></a>
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://goo.gl/photos/pPyjfmwsc4FnD5N56"><img alt="description" src="http://bit.ly/1jjRABK" /><img alt="description" class="preview" src="http://bit.ly/1jjRABK" /></a>
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://goo.gl/photos/pPyjfmwsc4FnD5N56"><img alt="description" src="http://bit.ly/1GDYc2S" /><img alt="description" class="preview" src="http://bit.ly/1GDYc2S" /></a>
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://goo.gl/photos/pPyjfmwsc4FnD5N56"><img alt="description" src="http://bit.ly/1Ot0auU" /><img alt="description" class="preview" src="http://bit.ly/1Ot0auU" /></a>
</li>
</ul>
<br />
<div class="clearfix">
<br />
<br />
P/s: Follow the travel stories of Stefan and Sebastien, the Nomadic Boys <a href="http://nomadicboys.com/" target="_blank">here</a>.
</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16343318754417500635noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4054726245026374215.post-18877091161690191092015-07-29T13:08:00.001+08:002015-07-29T13:08:26.156+08:00Hand-painted Batik on Silk at Rainforest World Music Festival 2015In my previous post, I talked about how in this installment of the Rainforest World Music Festival, there will be a new system of purchase - a cashless payment system for festival goers (read <a href="http://qwertyreflect.blogspot.com/2015/07/what-no-cash-needed-for-rwmf-2015.html" target="_blank">here</a>). Though I have yet to get any further details as to how the system works, is there a minimum topup and if so how much, and so on, I have at least one special booth to highlight!<br />
<br />
Keep an eye during RWMF 2015 for a unique, one of a kind, hand painted <i>batik</i> on silk! and if you don't know what <i>batik </i>is, feel free to read a little on my previous post on that too here.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://scontent-kul1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xta1/v/t1.0-9/11402994_1491561741135911_7766833858890338292_n.jpg?oh=405ecd48ea10fb0577ea16d2aa612e5b&oe=56506CEA" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="487" src="https://scontent-kul1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xta1/v/t1.0-9/11402994_1491561741135911_7766833858890338292_n.jpg?oh=405ecd48ea10fb0577ea16d2aa612e5b&oe=56506CEA" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Just one of many hand-painted batik on silk design</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Is that not gorgeous? Oh I can't even! >.<</div>
<br />
Although how <i>batik </i>made its way to local Malaysian, and specifically Sarawakian culture is still debatable, it has been an integral part of our culture and heritage. So much so that it is normal to see batik being worn on Thursdays as a working attire among men and women in Malaysia.<br />
<br />
<i>Batik</i> itself is already a diversified form of art, commonly translated into the local customs and tradition. Batik Sarawak features common motives of floral and fauna, and incorporates much of the local tribal designs such as the 'Tree of Life', <i>bunga terung</i>, the scorpion and many more.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://scontent-kul1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpf1/v/t1.0-9/11738079_1491561761135909_6153845758308706970_n.jpg?oh=371cb0bb25bada8dcf1edf3f659eb278&oe=5640EF4D" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://scontent-kul1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpf1/v/t1.0-9/11738079_1491561761135909_6153845758308706970_n.jpg?oh=371cb0bb25bada8dcf1edf3f659eb278&oe=5640EF4D" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Two Warriors : Hand-painted batik on silk</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
In some designs, people from local tribes are depicted, donning their ancestral clothings, <i>parang </i>(machete) and <i>perisai or terabai </i>(shield) in fighting stance. At this point, it is worth noting that Sarawak is also known as Land of the Headhunters. In the old days, tribes would wage wars between each other, and enemy heads are cut off and displayed as a trophy!<br />
<br />
Though the headhunting tradition has long since been abandoned, the <i>parang </i>and <i>terabai</i> are normally kept as displays, batik is still very prominent. I cannot think of a better take-away item from your visit to the RWMF 2015! And don't worry, if you're more of a practical person, batik is not just meant to look good, it's meant for comfortable wears as well.<br />
<br />
During RWMF 2015, Petra Pelita (Facebook page <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Petra-Pelita-Silk-Batik-Borneo-Sarawak/1489675147991237" target="_blank">here</a>) will be setting up booth at the Village Mart. They will be offering silk scarves and pareos that can be worn immediately during the festival, or silk material with batik designs in various lengths for you to turn into shirts or button-ups, dresses and skirts or decoration!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xft1/v/t1.0-9/20504_1493507357608016_2352067944144579225_n.jpg?oh=90e743913736a112736f1c5d89c4403c&oe=56499E71&__gda__=1447366094_30ab99584031c0424e16ba9b0c1322de" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xft1/v/t1.0-9/20504_1493507357608016_2352067944144579225_n.jpg?oh=90e743913736a112736f1c5d89c4403c&oe=56499E71&__gda__=1447366094_30ab99584031c0424e16ba9b0c1322de" width="160" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Typical silk material to be cut and tailored for men's shirt or ladies dresses and skirts</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://scontent-kul1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpa1/v/t1.0-9/11201867_1493507384274680_6916128285007336516_n.jpg?oh=7026ecb15345cac54466a1dc63c20f25&oe=5640AF90" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://scontent-kul1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpa1/v/t1.0-9/11201867_1493507384274680_6916128285007336516_n.jpg?oh=7026ecb15345cac54466a1dc63c20f25&oe=5640AF90" width="141" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Owh, so gorgeous!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Heh before I get carried away! These are some of the pre-made designs that Petra Pelita has. You'll be sure to find even more varieties on sale during the Rainforest World Music Festival. So if you're lounging around waiting for the next workshop to start, why not pop in to Petra Pelita's booth and check out these items: </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<ol>
<li>Silk Scraves (in sizes of 35" and 45")</li>
<li>Silk Pareos (in sizes of 36" and 45")</li>
<li>Batik Silk materials (in lengths of 2.5m and 4m)</li>
</ol>
<div>
Hrm.. I wonder if I can get a discount code for my readers? I'll get back to you on that. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16343318754417500635noreply@blogger.com0