Not All Girls Like Pink

Make a Note

2012-02-10T11:15:00.001+08:00

The Molskine collection

Notebooks galore! This is really something I'd wanna continue working on. Not merely collecting, but making notebooks too.

Also love these notebooks by Angelicquirk. Do check out her store or catch her at craft markets around PJ/KL.

DO check out Field Notes especially if you love everything about notebooks and note-taking.

Just discovered Jiam & Co. and Notbook-Notbuk via Pipit. I've got a serious case of notebook envy. They're beautifullll! (Also available at bazaars and craft markets around PJ/KL/Singapore)

Well I'm off to make some of my own.... have a great weekend peeps!

busy bee

2012-01-27T14:56:00.000+08:00

I've been sort of a busy bee since the year began. With, first of all work, and you know - life and all that.

But I've also been tinkering about the house, putting bobs and bits together. I'd very much like to DIY some things for my upcoming wedding and I suppose this gives me a good way to spend my evenings at home aside from watching all the TV shows I'm currently hooked on. And then there's the Golden Globes so of course I like HAVE to watch every single movie that's nominated. Right?

Well, many scoffed at the DIY idea cause, you know, I'm quite a bum. But I'm truly enjoying it. And I'm moving along just fine. Here's a sneak peek of what I'm working on.

alphabet stamps

This one's easy peasy. Just a lot of stamping to do. But I probably shouldn't attempt this after 3 cups of coffee! I smudged like an entire column >.<

And here are the corsages and boutonnieres I'm trying out. It's still a work in progress and I'm still playing with a few different styles but hopefully it'll look great when everything comes together.

first attempt at a paper boutonnieres

fabric corsage

Hoping I'll have more to share as THE DAY approaches. Till then... craft on!

Music Monday: The Impatient Sisters

2012-01-09T12:44:00.000+08:00

This was a good find and has been on loop for a few weeks. :)
Love their harmonising. Should totally check out their live session: http://www.facebook.com/theimpatientsisters

What a December...

2011-12-25T22:00:00.000+08:00

Trust? Hope? Love?
~~Yea sure whatever.~~
Yes. Totally. Forever.

Merry Christmas everyone.

and i will praise Him

2011-12-04T11:13:00.001+08:00

"But each day the Lord pours his unfailing love upon me,

and through each night I sing his songs,

praying to God who gives me life." Pslam 42: 8

Music Monday: Bon Iver

2011-11-14T09:58:00.000+08:00

It's a bit of a contemplative week for me and I find myself writing more than usual. Not in my blogs but I'm trying to finish a story that I've been working on. It's been in progress for a year actually and I haven't gotten far. But this week, I'm inspired. I always need a good song or a certain picture or a phrase of sorts to get me going. Sometimes it's even a good conversation that kick starts those creative juices.

This time round, I have Bon Iver to fuel me up. Go read up about the band. There's a pretty cool story of how the name came about. Bon Iver's kinda poetic to me. I discovered it a few years ago and it's my go-to band when I'm in that melancholy state. It doesn't happen as often these days. But it's a good balance of ups and downs.

Right now, it's helping me write so maybe, hopefully I'll finish this piece by Christmas. :)

Happy Friday~!

2011-11-11T15:45:00.001+08:00

Today i found/rediscovered some new music. I love when that happens. It's like stumbling upon little pockets of happiness. :)

Channel Cairo - Elephant Room

The Grates - Turn Me On

Kimbra - Settle Down

The Best Pessimist - Walking With Happiness

Cat Power - Dreams

Young the Giant - God Made Man (In The Open Session)

Switchfoot - Restless

2011-10-27T14:34:00.000+08:00

OWh what a birthday gift! New Switchfoot video!

RESTLESS

I am the sea on a moonless night
Calling falling, slipping tides
I am the leaky, dripping pipes
The endless, aching drops of light

I am the raindrop falling down
Always longing for the deeper ground
I am the broken, breaking seas
Even my blood finds ways to bleed

Even the rivers ways to run
Even the rain to reach the sun
Even my thirsty streams
Even in my dreams

I am restless, restless, restless
Looking for you
I am restless
I run like the ocean to find your shore
Looking for you

I am the thorn stuck in your side
I am the one that you left behind
I am the dried-up doubting eyes
Looking for the well that won't run dry

Running hard for the other side
The world that I've always been denied
Running hard for the infinite
With the tears of saints and hypocrites

Oh, blood of black and white and grey
Oh, death in life and night in day
One by one by one
We let our rivers run

I can hear you breathing
I can feel you leading
More than just a feeling
More than just a feeling

I can feel you you reaching
Pushing through the ceiling
Til the final healing
I'm looking for you

Until the sea of glass we meet
At last completed and complete
Where tide and tear and pain subside
And laughter drinks them dry

I'll be waiting
Anticipating
All that I aim for
What I was made for

With every heartbeat
All of my blood bleeds
Running inside me
Looking for you

Restless

28

2011-10-27T11:07:00.000+08:00

Today I celebrate my 28th year of existence.

It's been a somewhat contemplative year where life has taken almost every sombre moment and turned it around. It's not like I've been a shining rainbow on speed but it's left me much more appreciative of the people and things around me. Many a day, I wake up and I choose 'Happy'.

If I had to choose one word to sum up the year, it would be refreshing. After 27, life sped on and turned amazing. Sure there were glitches and down days and simply awful things and memories, outgrowing of things and lots of rainy days but amazing things still happened in the year of 27.

The year of 28 feels NEW. It's like a clean slate and miles and miles of hope. Today I celebrate my last year of single-hood. It's supposed to be a milestone which I'm writing down to remember. I know it's just a number and people stop counting and stop remembering birthdays after 21 or so. But I'm honoured to be given 28. I'm thankful The Big Guy has blessed me with 28.

I'm excited about 'NEW'. From newly-wed to new house to new memories, new shoes, new places, new spaces and renewed creativity. 28, you look amazing already!

I am a girl, gonna capture the world

2011-10-21T17:50:00.000+08:00

I Am A Girl - The Girls With Glasses Theme Song from The Girls With Glasses on Vimeo.

I just adore this video!

a little escape

2011-10-21T11:30:00.001+08:00

I've been away for two days on a paradise island where the blues are bluer than blue and the greens a melodic hue. A place where the sky meets the sea which meets the sand, and the day begins with tiny drops, a light shower from the carefully shaped clouds in the bright blue sky.

After all that, the view of clusters and clusters of tall grey buildings with their rows of glass windows as I drive into KL startle me with its horrid sight. I still have a love-hate relationship with the city.

Music Monday: Wilson Phillips

2011-10-03T22:37:00.000+08:00

I just watched 'Bridesmaids' and I absolutely loved it! Hold On was one of the songs in the movie and they even got the real Wilson Phillips trio to appear in a cameo and perform in there!

Wilson Phillips is an American vocal group that consist of the two Wilson sisters Carnie Wilson and Wendy Wilson and their friend Chynna Phillips. They were actually the best-selling female group in 1990!

An awesome fact found in Wiki is that the Wilsons are the daughters of Brian Wilson from The Beach Boys while Phillips' parents are from The Mamas & the Papas.

Hold On was probrably the most memorable song from them and I surprised myself when I jumped in and started singing along when it was played in the movie! Gosh the 90s.... I guess there were some good stuff from then. I'm gonna try and unearth a few more gems from that era. :D

Sporadic whites

2011-09-29T21:35:00.001+08:00

From brown to black to brown to red and plum to copper to blond to silver and white...

Boy do I hate growing old. Ugh.

silently watch, listen, weep

2011-09-20T10:32:00.002+08:00

Sometimes you watch a film that is made to break your heart and you still yell at it in surprise when it does. You swear you never want to feel ripped apart and contorted again, but you take another peek. You still seek out such films - the one that tugs at all the wrong strings.

Somehow they understand you. You relate to that broken, heart wrenching film. It leaves you exposed. Emotions laid bare and feeling unfound. A piece of you discovered but not claimed. Because no one experiences a movie in the same way.

Much like stories. You picture it, experience it, read it, somewhat, differently.

Much like music and songs. Like the one that repeats itself and you do not have the heart to turn it off for it is hauntingly beautiful.

The piece that makes you feel owh so sad, but wait, still...wait... it's beautiful.

Loop it.

Someone must have found joy when writing something so downright sad. Right?

Music Monday: Green River Ordinance

2011-09-19T14:07:00.002+08:00

Discovered Green River Ordinance awhile back and i sooo love this song. They are an American rock band from Fort Worth, Texas and their name refers to laws which prohibit door-to-door sales unless the house's owner gives permission to do so.

Didn't know there were such laws around. *shrug*

the Story

2011-09-14T15:24:00.003+08:00

I've begun reading Donald Miller's A Million Miles in a Thousand Years and it's really engaging me to 're-read' and 're-write' my own stories.

I first picked it up cause I've been reading his blog and really liked the way he writes. So when I saw the book on sale at the amazing Popular book fest, I knew I had to own a copy!

The book basically talks about his success, failure and his life falling into a lull when along comes an opportunity to write a film based on his book about his life. While planning the narrative for the fictional character Don, he confronts the unremarkable and dull nature of his real life.

Can you imagine your life being made into a movie? Would it be worth watching? Would your story be engaging/powerful/dramatic/funny/memorable?

Before one can begin to write a story you'd probrably want to know what a story is. The book defines a story as, “A character who wants something and overcomes conflict to get it”.

He pens his journey in a highly entertaining manner and he's one author where words just come alive and poke and prod you along the way.

It’s a hard book to put down and I'm only halfway through but it sorta pushes you to think and make better choices, face up to some conflict, face your fears and live better stories.

So hey, what kind of stories are you writing today?

Music Monday: The Weepies

2011-09-12T14:26:00.001+08:00

I've been wanting to feature The Weepies for awhile now. But I couldn't pick which song I liked best. They are an amazing indie pop-folk band fronted by singer-songwriters Deb Talan and Steve Tannen. Their music has been described as "subtly intoxicating folk-pop" and I'm not gonna argue with that.

They're my go-to music when I want to just unwind and daydream for a bit.

Tuesday's Threes

2011-08-23T17:36:00.004+08:00

In an attempt to be more observant, this is a Tuesday segment dedicated to the world around me. I'll be observing three things which are interesting and bringing them to life here, so you can imagine with me.

One:

I pass you everyday as we walk to work in opposite directions. You always look so chic with the cigarette in your hand and your sunnies with your hair neatly in a band, whispy strays blowing softly framing your square jaw as you walk with a bounce. You put together gorgeous rockable outfits straight out of Polyvore or Chictopia. You are hands down the best dressed LadyBoy I have ever seen in my life.

Two:

You walk out of the big glass doors I usually check my reflection in. Smiling, you adjust the waist band of your pants and look up catching my eye in the process. Your smile is quickly replaced with an awkward sheepishness I can't quite comprehend. You speed walk away down the street. Pretty fast for a man with your physique. Looking up at the signboard of the building you just exited I realise, "Owh...whore house."

Three:

Hello girls you seem a little lost. Map in hand you glance about the bustling streets contemplating which route to take. As I approach, you look helplessly at me wondering if this person would understand despite the babel. I'm sorry I don't speak Russian but sign language and short key words work just as well. MRT? Bukit Bintang? Dear traveller you have arrived! I hope you managed to navigate your way around this crazy city and enjoy the confusion of voices and other sounds.

Music Monday: Flight of the Conchords

2011-08-22T11:05:00.002+08:00

New Zealand-based comedy duo, Bret McKenzie and Jemaine Clement are from Flight of the Conchords and they're crazy hilarious!

Awesome way to kick start your week!

sleepless

2011-08-21T20:00:00.004+08:00

I've never really been a good sleeper. When I was about four or five I used to wake up in the middle of the night with panic attacks. And I'd scream and scream till my mom came and got me and put me back to bed. That happened every night till one day they figured it was asthma and maybe my panic attacks were caused by me not being able to breathe.

But the whole 'waking up in the middle of the night' thing never really went away. The panic attacks are minimal but I'm twenty-eight years old these sleepless nights are beginning to show.I have these dark rings and perpetual stoned look... should I start to panic?

"What are the things that keep you up at night?," my friends asked but I don't really know though. All I know, is when I sleep, I dream about zombies, snakes, wedding nightmares (this one deserves a whole post of its own), murder, quests, puzzles, death, giant robots and a whole bunch of other weird adventures go on in my sleep.

I know dreaming is normal, but I absolutely HATE it! I tend to wake up exhausted! And if I wake up in the middle of the night, I'd then proceed to try and decipher that stupid dream to try and make sense of it, losing another precious hour of much-needed sleep.

Sometimes I wake up literally to solve a problem be it with a design element I couldn't get right, or look for something I couldn't find earlier. I used to wake up to write some weird phrase or rhyme cause apparently I was songwriting in my sleep. Or sometimes I'd lie awake for a few hours and doze off just before my alarm rings! Yippee! 20 Minutes! That's just great!

Oy Vey! Just go back to sleep already!!

My colleagues think it's stress and my mom thinks I just need to pray before going to bed. See I have so many genius' in my life. Tell me something I DON'T already know people!

So anyhoo, back to this sleeplessness, what's a girl gotta do to get a good nights' rest?

Well Google tells me that it's normal to wake briefly during the night. Most people don't even remember waking up. But here's what I've got to do to to get back to sleep:

Stay Out of your head
Make relaxation your goal, not sleep
Do a quiet, non-stimulating activity
Postpone worrying and brainstorming

Falling asleep is easy. It's staying asleep that's hard. What I wouldn't give for a solid eight hours of non-interrupted REST.

le sigh....

journey

2011-08-19T12:51:00.006+08:00

I still absolutely love http://www.gapingvoid.com/.

I sometimes wish I had stuck with advertising instead of pursuing publishing/writing. But hey, I'm glad I've dipped my hands in both. I'm sure there's still a whole bunch of things I've yet to try. Life's gonna be an incredible journey once you decide to just step out of the shade and enjoy the sunshine.

Or I might just write greeting cards cause sometimes, I reach new levels of corny.

heh.

musings

2011-08-15T18:14:00.002+08:00

Music Monday: Singin' in the rain

2011-08-08T09:24:00.000+08:00

It's shaping up to be a pretty good week! I love Mondays that kick off with good news.
I'm reminded of this tune today: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pmro9l2scXk
I can't embed the video it but do check it!

Debbie Reynolds, Gene Kelly and Donald O'Connor what a perfect way to kick start the week!

And of course Foo Fighters on Lollapalooza streamed live on YouTube! That was my dose of morning coffee.

Cheers to a great week ahead of you!

Music Monday: Kye Kye

2011-07-25T09:27:00.000+08:00

Kye Kye is an ambient band composed of the Estonia-born Yagolnikov siblings. Now I don't usually enjoy ambient music but I was intrigued after reading their interview on RelevantMagazine.com

The part that got me was when Tim said, "We always say it's not about creativity, it's about how well you listen. For this new album, we've spent less time actually trying to write songs, and trying to come up with concepts and ideas to write about, and how to best explain what we're experiencing. Instead, we've spent more time with God and getting to know who He is, and what that relationship looks like."

Some of the best songs are taken from the bible and as I stumbled upon Kye Kye's tumblr I saw a post which hopefully opens you up to a whole new outlook about song writing. :)

Experimental Worship

2011-07-21T12:14:00.004+08:00

via www.pulsarwallpapers.com

Ever since attending a design and movement class in university, I've been intrigued by the effect that music has on us and our movement. This probrably falls into Futurism but I'm not doing a study on art periods but rather seeing art as a worship form.

The Futurists practiced in every medium of art, including painting, sculpture, ceramics, graphic design, industrial design, interior design, theatre, film, fashion, textiles, literature, music, architecture and even gastronomy. Now who's to say that all that could not be grounds for experimental worship?

Put a song on loop then start painting!

Sounds simple enough, but how much of it is you being led by the music and how much of it is just you commanding an artpiece? Are we led by the atmosphere or by strong emotion?

There was another class which I thoroughly enjoyed too - Rhythm and Movement. That one was particularly freeing and I learnt a lot about myself in that class. I think actors and performers use that to get warmed up and after watching "The Kings Speech" I know it helps in many other areas of life too!

I'm not very open with movements though. Flexibility isn't all there is to movement and I hold back a great deal. I'm often afraid to express. There's a lot impressed upon my heart but I hold back from expressing wide strong movements except in the confines of my home. Even then I am restricted by space.

I often dream of white wide empty space where I'm able to wildly express myself with colour and grace. Would I dance with such abandon? Would I paint? or design? Or write epic poetry? I don't quite know yet. All I feel is this unexplainable need to express in EVERY way I know.

I've grown since my days as an alpha student. And I've taken the lessons learnt in those movement classes and sort of experimented with it a little. From outward expressions of inward angst I've grown to channel these emotions positively. I write to express what spoken words fail me. I dance to express the emotions that reside within me. And sometimes I paint when I need that calm to just envelope me.

I'm a firm believer that creative gifts are God-given and we are to work on it and grow with it and make this small talent morph into something beautiful and tangible.

Above wanting these gifts to grow, I hope I'll find my wide empty space where all these become possible. A place where talent meets media meets medium. I'm no singer, songwriter, artist and neither am I a fully-published writer so I'm sure I'll still fall short, and I'm sure that there are those who can do a whole lot better and there are those who would mock my feeble attempts at 'art'.

But here's where I'll need to rise above the fear and take charge of that Dream. Actualise the desire to just go out and full-on worship my God.

The nudge

2011-07-18T17:30:00.003+08:00

via http://anyonelsebutyou.tumblr.com/

Every so often as i sit at my desk at work, reading news reports and mommy blogs, or writing a piece for our website, i feel like i'm being nudged. Sometimes it's a wave of dizziness like the kind felt during tremors or small earthquakes and sometimes it's as if someone's just walked past me and bumped into my chair, while at other times it's like some force of unfelt and unheard wind has just knocked into me.

I look up from my notebook screen and it takes a while for my eyes to adjust and see things clearly. And then i look around the office to see if anyone else felt that too.

Was anyone else rudely shaken out of their routine work of designing, editing or writing. Did anyone else have their daytime reverie interrupted by unseen forces.

Of course it's most-likely my imagination. My blood sugar probably dropped hence the light-headedness. Or maybe my chair has gotten a little rickkety.

Well recently when 'the nudge' happened, I looked up and I saw this poster I have on my cubicle wall. It's a print from workisnotajob and it simply says one word - Dream.

Now "Dream" is a word that brings all kinds of meaning to me. Seeing it pinned up big and bold jolted me out of my reverie more than 'the nudge' did. I had almost forgotten all about it.

Dream.

The stuff which maketh the future.

Ok not exactly but you know what I mean. Dreams are that which kinda help you along the way. It gives you a picture and encourages you to fill in the details and write the story to.

“Dreams are illustrations... from the book your soul is writing about you.” - Marsha Norman

Have you come to a place where Dreams have become inevitable. It's like a snowball effect of dreams where one takes shape into another and then another. And what started out as this miniscule idea just morphes into this project of giant proportions.

Dreams.

Sometimes I don't think we do enough of it. Sometimes I think 'the nudge' was a dream tugging at my heartstrings. Willing me to get up and get going. Chase that which seems unatainable right now. Pursue that which I know I can do.

And so... I dream and I continue to write that which my dreams have placed upon my heart.

And after I've given my all, I know there'll still more room for dreams.

Music Monday: Jon and John

2011-07-18T11:42:00.003+08:00

I felt shitloads of excitement when i saw this pop up in the Land Of Broken Hearts site awhile back.

There's Jon Foreman of Switchfoot and Johnny Rzeznik of Goo Goo Dolls - one of my all-time favourites. I was pretty obsessed with them in high school. Like, poster and song lyrics plastered across my wall kinda obsessed. heh. It's awesome that after all these years, he's still so hawt and that song still managed to turn me to mush. :D

Music Monday: Lemolo

2011-06-13T11:28:00.002+08:00

Today I'll introduce you guys to Lemolo. They are a pop-folk duo from Seattle, Washington, United States. Lemolo consists of two very talented women - Meagan Grandall on vocals, guitar and keyboard and Kendra Cox on drums and keyboard. They are currently working on recording their first full length album which they plan on releasing in the fall of 2011.

I discovered the band via KEXP which is also coincidentally my most favourite YouTube Channel. That's probably where the bulk of my time disappears to. I spend WAAYYYY too much time on that channel.

I love the song "Letters" so check it!

paint party

2011-06-07T16:25:00.005+08:00

We've been pretty busy over at our home which I will fondly refer to as (BK). Can't think of an appropriate abbreviation for it just yet. Bubbly Kisses? Buns in a Knot? ahh... next time..

While I'm busy making a mess, my mom's packing for her great big European escape. She was last in London when she was in her early twenties. So now at 59, she's all excited to be going back!

My sister has also been busy, dipping her fingers in paint. She was recently commissioned to draw a mural at an office space.

Here she is hard at work

One wall almost done.

And this one's a fun mural for Miss Sheena's bedroom. :D

Psst: She's available for hire. Her work I mean. She can jazz up any space you want just buzz for details.

project weekend: pom poms & paint

2011-06-06T10:47:00.006+08:00

I had a little break last weekend and I managed to catch up on some projects I had lying around.

I love paper pom poms so I'm gonna try and make a whole lot more for this wedding I'm planning in two weeks!

I was also really inspired by Jen Ramos of Made By Girl. I really loved her lipstick dots print and decided to make one of my own!

Only I used nail polish instead of acrylic. :D

A little bit of OPI, L'oreal and Elianto!

Friday loves

2011-05-27T14:34:00.006+08:00

I'm so lovin' the Editor's wishlist on Matchbook Mag. I'm having a pretty flower power week and truly appreciating Chinese-French inspired decor, like this awesome gallery on Luscious.

Which reminds me, I need to flower-up my place this June!

We're celebrating a whole string of weddings which might probably lead to an overload of wedding loves. :D

HAPPY WEEKEND~!

Coco Rocha + James Conran // Dream Wedding Short Film

2011-05-26T11:55:00.000+08:00

I soooo love this.

Today

2011-05-17T11:19:00.005+08:00

From birdinacagebride.com

Today, it suddenly dawned upon me that by this time next year, I'd be waking up and instead of hearing my mom pottering about the kitchen, I'd be the one toasting bread and making coffee for the man who would be a permanent fixture in my life.

It's a strange thought. One which I've for the longest time refused to think about. I said YES in February, and then folded the BIG M and tucked it neatly into a box. It was perhaps fear of the unknown or apprehension about the whole idea. Or maybe it was just a fleeting feeling that there's so much yet to be done. So I hit pause.

But today, I took a peek at it. I took the idea of marriage out of that box, unfolded it and I looked at it long and hard.

Today, it didn't scare me. It looked right back at me and winked. And I hugged it.

The Big M is now pinned to my mirror. Everytime i look at it, I'm reminded of the sappy yet utterly beautiful poem by Ludwig van Beethoven - Immortal Beloved.

And so on a bright sunny day next year, I will gather myself and echo him saying ever thine, ever mine, ever ours.

Music Monday: Lykke Li

2011-05-16T14:01:00.001+08:00

Music Monday today will feature Lykke Li. I think I've featured 'I'm Good. I'm Gone' on one of my other blogs before. There's just something about her. Jason doesn't care much for her and laughs everytime I play her videos but ...pfftt.... whatever.

Her second studio album 'Wounded Rhymes' is out and it's got this sad, melancholic sorta feel about it. You should totally check out 'Sadness is a Blessing' directed by Tarik Saleh. It sorta captures the whole mood of the album.

My absolute favourite track is 'Love out of Lust'. Not a normally likeable title for me but, the song's pretty cool. :)

Check it!

when

2011-05-14T15:43:00.000+08:00

i wonder when it is
that...
people stop trying....

Music Monday: Future of Forestry

2011-05-09T10:44:00.001+08:00

Future of Forestry is an ecclectic Christian rock band from San Diego California.

They were previously known as Something Like Silas which consisted of a husband-wife team but unfortunately their marriage fell apart and after some time, Future of Forestry was born.

The name "Future of Forestry" is taken from a poem of the same name by British author C. S. Lewis.

I'm sooo glad Eric Owyoung didn't quit the scene alltogether. He's just so mighty talented and his songs are just so full of emotion.

They're on Twitter @forestry so do check them out!

fan of the foot

2011-05-05T13:10:00.004+08:00

ok i'm not really over the concert yet. hehe.

But here's my article that's up on Yes World!

Switchfoot raises a storm in KL

Switchfoot - KL

2011-05-04T10:00:00.003+08:00

Awesome video Michelle managed to take at the KL leg of the Switchfoot Asian tour. This is one of my all-time favourites!

midnight musings

2011-05-03T01:01:00.004+08:00

succinct song titles make up a poem of sorts.

We dared to move and learned to breathe

and then there was Only Hope

no longer 24

not Incomplete

we looked at the Stars

Turning everything over, cause living is simple

I'm more than fine, you're not the mess of me

The shadow proves the sunshine

The Sound of the fatal wound

The Setting Sun, owh what a Beautiful Letdown

you're Home

we are one tonight,

so long and Goodnight Punk.

* can't ever go wrong with Switchfoot.

what if...

2011-04-27T12:30:00.001+08:00

what if...

they were right, he was wrong
try as i might, push on head strong
fought the fight, bruised left and right
heart in hand, run as far as I can
Only then can i comprehend
but it still does not make sense
never does
never will
make it end?

STOP!

what if...

i was right, they are gone
was it wrong? you're no where to be found
i choke, i fear, you're still not here
heart in hand, i offer you to mend
I'll soon understand
all's not within my plan
never was
always is
hope - just around the bend.

Music Monday: Switchfoot

2011-04-25T12:53:00.001+08:00

Okok I know they're not new and 'undiscovered' or 'unheard' of but they're COMING TO MALAYSIA so this warrants a post for this week. :D

Well Switchfoot hails from San Diego and consists of Jerome Fontamillas, Chad Butler, Drew Shirley, Jon Foreman and Tim Foreman.

Did you know that the name "Switchfoot" is a surfing term? According to Jon Foreman, to switch your feet means to take a new stance facing the opposite direction. It's about change and movement, a different way of approaching life and music.

That sorta reminds me of my church - 180°. Making a change - moving away from the norm and being absolutely different, radical and turning lives around! It's just amazing to be part of something that's life-changing!

A little update on Wiki is that they are working on their a studio project called Vice Verses. According to Butler, the core of the record will rest thematically in the idea of the polarity of life. A release date of June, 2011 has been tentatively set.

i'll disappear...

2011-04-25T11:49:00.001+08:00

For the longest time... I've wished this too...

city view

2011-04-21T17:25:00.001+08:00

I recently moved to a window seat at The Big Corporation. No it's not a promotion or anything... they just had me move and so I did.

I get a big L-shaped table, and I inherited two file drawers and a 6-tier bookcase. Behind me are HUGE glass windows which overlook Bukit Bintang and it's got large trees leaning in so there's some shade from the harsh concrete buildings that surround me. I have the blinds pulled right up so sunshine streams into the office everyday.

It's a gorgeous sight when I just take time to lean back, coffee in hand and just gaze at the busy street below.

I've dreamed about this spot for years, and I've always looked out this window from where I was sitting across the office. I'm a happy camper these days with my new space. I don't trip over stuff as much or bang my elbows or scrape my knee, at least not since i moved. *beams*

I've got a cute window ledge where two pretty vases sit. It's empty for now... *hint hint at fiance who doesn't read my blog*.

I'll post some pictures when I have the place tidied up a bit more. I'm gonna keep it neat and clean i SWEAR! My colleagues would probrably laugh at that statement. But I just deem it organised chaos. Works for me!

Music Monday: James Blake

2011-04-04T09:13:00.001+08:00

This is so freakin amazing. I salute the sound guys for this video too man. It felt as if James Blake was singing right to me. But ahhh... James Blake... I just wanna put you in my pocket and have you make sweet music for me.

I'm still partay-ing in Borneo, so see you guys soon and I'll be back with a tan~

Food from our Travels

2011-03-30T14:20:00.006+08:00

There is this little bookstore tuck deep in the maze of little shops and alleys at Sg Wang Plaza which is my favourite hang out place during lunch hour.

It's basically an old magazine shop and holds heaps and mounds of treasure for those who don't mind judging books by its covers. You see, every magazine is wrapped and sealed in clear plastic so you never get to flip through it like you would at a regular magazine store.

Most of the magazines there are back issues of foreign titles from the US, Australia or Europe and are never ever found in any other bookstore. I usually pick out the ones I like, and note their titles and then rush back to Google them to see if they're worth buying.

So when I spot an issue that's two months old, it goes to the top of my list cause that's practically brand new! The best part is, what would usually cost RM28-RM40 would only be beetween RM9.90-RM15.90. That's a steal!!!

It's still a lot to pay for a magazine but I supposed it's better than waiting 10 years to buy a copy of "Best Hairstyles of 2011" for RM5 (also sold at Giant Hypermarkets)

Well today, I was browsing through the shelves and they had just been recently restocked and I stumble accross a REALLY beautiful magazine cover by Vogue Australia Entertaining + Travel.

I've never known Vogue to have an Entertaining + Travel mag so i bought it and I'm just amazed at every page! The colours, the composition, the layout, the content! I'm dying at every page turn. Gosh! IT'S BEAUTIFUL!!!!

Spoken word poet Sarah Kay

2011-03-29T15:34:00.002+08:00

Today this ONE video moved me. Some days, all it takes is ONE thing to totally transform you. :)

Music Monday: Little Joy

2011-03-28T09:23:00.001+08:00

I was just poking around online and I came across this wonderful band called Little Joy. Just their name alone is pretty and they're sorta amazing!

Little Joy is a Brazilian/American rock band formed in 2007 by Los Hermanos singer/guitarist Rodrigo Amarante, The Strokes drummer Fabrizio Moretti and Binki Shapiro.

'Next Time Around' is just the perfect tune as I get ready to leave for the beach at the end of the week! :D

Life

2011-03-27T15:28:00.005+08:00

www.postsecret.com

I've been thinking about death a lot lately... I don't mean to sound so morbid on a sunny Sunday afternoon. But I guess that's just one of the things people think about when they're not exactly having the best of times.

I wonder what my last words would be, if i would get the chance to tell people how I feel, or who the last person I hug would be. I know that I'd give my organs away and I know all my books would be well-loved.

But I always wonder if i would have said all i needed to say, or done all that I've needed to do. I know it's something I won't ever know but it just makes me think. A whole lot more than is necessary.

After reading the secret above from PostSecret, it was like a reminder that life's too short for you to be thinking bout death. I should be doing things and not putting them off. I should meet people cause you never know what distance might keep you apart and I should always be grateful for life, cause there's only ONE of that, which The Big Guy has blessed me with.

Tuesday's Threes

2011-03-22T17:10:00.002+08:00

In an attempt to be more observant, I'm starting a new Tuesday segment dedicated to the world around me. I'll be observing three things which are interesting and bringing them to life here, so you can imagine with me.

First:

I was having ice-cream today and I realise, people stare when you lick an ice-cream cone. No matter how discreet I was in eating my ice-cream, people were staring! Which of course made me really self-conscious. Determined to enjoy my ice-cream, I said, "...pshaw!" and licked away.

Second:

While waiting for the train, I saw a guy - handsomely dressed, scribbling in a notebook. It wasn't a particularly grand notebook or datebook, just a regular lined notebook with dog-eared edges. Every so often, he'd pause, look far off into the distance and then as if flooded by inspiration, he'd bend over his notebook and write with speed as if he were chasing the words down from his head.

Third:

We've been having grey sky mornings for the past two weeks and when I looked out my window today, a cloud of mist had settled around us and it felt like Cameron Highlands minus the biting cold. It was a pleasant sort of cold weather coupled with a slight drizzle which made getting out of bed not too bad at all.

Music Monday: The Audreys

2011-03-21T17:22:00.004+08:00

Its a little late in the day but I just had to share my top pick for Music Monday.
I just came across this song by The Audreys - a band from Adelaide, Australia and it's hauntingly beautiful~

They're a bit folksy and bluesy and although their earlier music sounds a little too dreary for my liking, this new album seems pretty promising!

Teenage Dream

2011-03-18T09:29:00.002+08:00

I had this really vivid dream that I was at a wedding party and the lights went off. And suddenly the intro to Katy Perry's 'Teenage Dream' came on and my friends and I got out of our seats and started dancing... I think we were doing a Glee improv and we were singing and dancing in synchrony like we'd choreographed the whole thing.

Some people were enjoying it, while the older folks - not so much.

And then the bride and groom walks in dancing to the song too! They were doing the solos and totally nailing it. The groom actually sounded like Darren Criss in my dream.

And then I woke up. Happy. What a great start to my Friday after in incredibly depressing week. There's hope for the weekend after all!

Together

2011-03-16T15:56:00.001+08:00

My dad happens to like the author Khalil Gibran and after hearing so much about him, i decided to look him up. Stumbling across some excerpts of his work, i've picked up this one to share with you. With the number of weddings taking place this year, I think it's a beautiful piece to share :)

The Prophet by Khalil Gibran – Marriage

You were born together, and together you shall be forevermore.

You shall be together when the white wings of death scatter your days.

Ay, you shall be together even in the silent memory of God.

But let there be spaces in your togetherness,

And let the winds of the heavens dance between you.

Love one another, but make not a bond of love:

Let it rather be a moving sea between the shores of your souls.

Fill each other’s cup but drink not from one cup.

Give one another of your bread but eat not from the same loaf

Sing and dance together and be joyous, but let each one of you be alone,

Even as the strings of a lute are alone though they quiver with the same music.

Give your hearts, but not into each other’s keeping.

For only the hand of Life can contain your hearts.

And stand together yet not too near together:

For the pillars of the temple stand apart,

And the oak tree and the cypress grow not in each other’s shadow.

Tuesday's Threes

2011-03-15T12:24:00.000+08:00

First:

As i drive to work along the MEX expressway, I arrive at a bend which always takes my breath away. It's my first glimpse of the KL Cityscape set before cool blue skies and cotton candy clouds. At one particular spot, KL Tower lines up with Times Square and KLCC and sometimes it’s these little architectural marvels that get me excited about working in the big city.

Second:

Chivalry is not dead in this big City. Today I saw a young man offer his brolly to two of his female colleagues while he walked ahead in the pelting rain towards his office (I assume) in Bukit Bintang.

Third:

It's funny what you overhear in the streets if only you will yourself to stop and listen. A girl in an incredibly short skirt wonders aloud, "What's the difference between pink and neon pink and what's fuchsia?" to which her Goth friend responds, "Who cares... they're all colours I will not ever wear."

Music Monday: Sugarland

2011-03-14T09:30:00.001+08:00

Now this would be the perfect theme song for my Monday morning! I sooo don't wanna be at The Big Corporation today after the lazy weekend I've had... but owhwell...

Sugarland is fast becoming my happy-feel-good band and everyone could do with a lil' bit country now and then. Sugarland consists of singer–songwriters Jennifer Nettles (lead vocals) and Kristian Bush (background vocals, lead vocals, mandolin, acoustic guitar, and harmonica).

Jennifer does this 'Shaggy' impersonation in some of her songs which i absolutely love! Check out some of their live concerts too. Looks real fun! Now what are the chances of Sugarland making an appearance in Malaysia? hmm....

On writing Love Letters

2011-02-14T11:18:00.002+08:00

The Adams Letters

John and Abigail Adams exchanged more than 1,100 letters during the course of their courtship and 54-year-marriage and his diplomatic and presidential career. This is an excerpt from a letter Abigail wrote to John dated Dec. 23, 1782 (spellings are as in the original letter):

My Dearest Friend,

... should I draw you the picture of my Heart, it would be what I hope you still would Love; tho it containd nothing New; the early possession you obtained there; and the absolute power you have ever mantaind over it; leaves not the smallest space unoccupied. I look back to the early days of our acquaintance; and Friendship, as to the days of Love and Innocence; and with an undiscribable pleasure I have seen near a score of years roll over our Heads, with an affection heightned and improved by time — nor have the dreary years of absence in the smallest degree effaced from my mind the Image of the dear untittled man to whom I gave my Heart.

Friday laughs

2011-02-11T14:04:00.002+08:00

http://damnyouautocorrect.com

This site is just filling up my Friday with barrels of laughter.

Enjoy!!

whoa!!!!

2011-02-10T17:10:00.000+08:00

Found via http://thebedlamofbeefy.blogspot.com my current favourite blog :)

Dive for Dreams

2011-02-08T17:02:00.004+08:00

dive for dreams

or a slogan may topple you

(trees are their roots

and wind is wind)

trust your heart

if the seas catch fire

(and live by love

though the stars walk backward)

honour the past

but welcome the future

(and dance your death

away at this wedding)

never mind a world

with its villains or heroes

(for god likes girls

and tomorrow and the earth)

in spite of everything

which breathes and moves, since Doom

(with white longest hands

neating each crease)

will smooth entirely our minds

-before leaving my room

i turn, and

(stooping through the morning)

kiss this pillow, dear

where our heads lived and were.

[E.E. Cummings, ninety-five poems]

The MOVE

2011-02-07T12:28:00.002+08:00

Everyone I know hates moving day. All the pre moving de-cluttering, sorting, throwing, recycling to downsize and making endless lists of "Things to Buy" and "Things to Do" before the big day is just plain axe-hous-teeing!

I've moved a total of 8 times. Well 10 if you count the two times I had to move out of my campus dorms.

Lets re-cap shall we:

BM - HB4 - BM - HB3 - Cyberia - Bangsar - Palm Spring - D'Rimba - Seksyen 6 - Puchong.

That's 10 moves in 10 years and I repeat.... it's axe-hous-teeing!!!!

Of course it's all not possible without help from some very awesome friends. And when I say awesome... I mean super-duper-amazing-type-of-califragelistic-sorta-awesome friends who help you haul all your crap in their cars and never complain when you tell them you're moving to a two flight walk-up and who never complain when you tell them the new place is one highway and two tolls away. That's how awesome my amazingly awesome friends are. I know I keep saying awesome but... THEY ARE!!!

So now here I am in my 10th home, which I share with some really loud people whom I also love very much. And I've unpacked most of my stuff and realise I need to do more of that de-cluttering cause I've just accumulated WAAYYYY too much stuff over the past 10 years and I need to let go of a lot of crap.

Hi everyone, My name is Melisa and I'm a hoarder. I have since thrown/given away 5 boxes of old junk and 3 bags of old clothes and 1 box of books, and I feel a wee bit LIBERATED. Also I feel a lil’ bit happy cause I can now close my closet nicely and I just need TWO more book shelves instead of the FIVE I initially needed to store my books. Yeay!

She & Him - Don't Look Back

2011-01-26T16:45:00.001+08:00

She & Him - Don't Look Back from Merge Records on Vimeo.

Do what you do well

2011-01-21T18:47:00.001+08:00

“The place where God calls you is where your deep gladness meets the world’s deep hunger.” ~ Frederick Buechner

broken

2011-01-18T23:32:00.003+08:00

A broken heart's not that easy to mend.
Duct tape will just have to hold it together for now....

conversations in the dark

2011-01-17T14:00:00.001+08:00

him: i'm sorry... pls forgive me....

her: ... i forgive you.

him: why?

her: because you're my friend.

him: ...but, I'm your boyfriend.

her: no, you're my best friend.

him: Can i be your husband one day?

her: maybe.

him: Can i use that to propose to you?

her: not today.

... of food and stuff

2011-01-04T10:29:00.002+08:00

There's nothing worse than when people start telling your boyfriend he's losing weight and looking good and then they turn to you and say, "owh you've filled out!" and then when my eyes pop at the expression "FILLED OUT" they say "owh it's a good thing! You were too skinny before." As if that would make me feel any better.

hmmpphh.

So anyway in my effort to not look so "filled out" particularly in the bottom region, (curse those fat ass genes) I've been trying to cut out all that's sugary and nice - no cookies, sweets, chocolate; no gluten - bread, pastas, crackers, rice(?); no caffeine and booze; and if possible, no processed meat.

But that basically cuts out all my staples! I wrote a food diary yesterday to see if what I was having was passable as healthy, and no it didn't look pretty...

Breakfast: Milo and Sambal Ikan Bilis pastry

Lunch : Wan Ton Noodles

Snack: Crackers with a healthy spread of Nutella

Late Dinner: Tomato based pasta with sausages

And that's considered a good day cause the only snack i had was Nutella and crackers! The previous weeks saw me gorging on cookies every hour and drinking copious ammounts of coffee. So much for self control.

Well this week... it'll be fresh vegetables and white meat. That's the plan. An awesome plan. Yesireee!

But right after i finish my teh tarik and curry puffs.

THEN, we begin!

For real.

why hellooo 2011!

2011-01-03T12:28:00.003+08:00

I've met a Lilly, a Hyacinth and I've met a Dianthus. Pretty cool ladies, which makes me feel like naming your kid after a flower ain't such a bad thing. Flower named ladies used to remind me of old people with cats for some reason. That is, until i met these three.

This year, I'm hoping to meet more interesting people with interesting names and interesting jobs. That's all I wanna achieve this year I think. Well of course there are those dreams and visions. This massive puzzle called life is slowly taking shape and sometimes the pieces fit perfectly while at other times, it's like pffttt.

I've now learnt that square pegs don't fit in round holes and blue comes in all shapes and sizes. Thank you 2010 for all the awesomeness and the blehh moments.

Dancing on into 2011 ...

dark whimsy

2010-12-29T12:27:00.001+08:00

Vintage dress (via http://www.thecherryblossomgirl.com)

Lanvin for H&M finally hits stores!

2010-11-23T10:56:00.000+08:00

The long awaited collection by Alber Elbaz, Lanvin's artistic director, for high street store H&M is definitely a collaboration worth checking out.

Elbaz follows in the footsteps of Karl Lagerfeld, Stella McCartney, and Sonia Rykiel, who have all collaborated with the Swedish retailer previously.

A must-watch is this quirky video featuring the collection, which hits stores on November 23.

This video, starrs Natasha Poly, Alber Elbaz, Hannelore Knuts, Jane Schmitt and Tati Collitar and is a clever four minute view of what to expect. This includes one-shoulder frocks, girly trenches, floral pieces, and sophisticated separates made for all ages and sizes.

The video, called “The Show”, perfectly captures the playful, glamorous, and French feeling of the Lanvin hearts H&M collection.

Très chic!

Letter to my younger self

2010-10-27T00:05:00.000+08:00

Dear Mel,

Boy does it feel weird saying that. This is ME, writing to you from the future. So actually, this is really YOU and you have just turned 27!

At 17, you're simply known as Melisa. You think your name is boring and spelt wrong. Well the good news is, 10 years from now, you love your name! You even win a book in a slogan-writing competition about 'what's in a name'.

Right now, most people call you Mel. Even people you don't know - which is annoying! Everyone seems to have shorter names now - Jo, Jules, Fli, Jazz as opposed to Joanne, Julie, Felicia and Jessica. Maybe it's a KL thing. *shrug*

At 17, you look pretty miserable. Studying's a drag and you hate curfews and being perpetually grounded. Ten years from now, you'll have all the freedom and time in the world that you won't know what to do with yourself.

Standing up for what you think is right has got you far, but speaking in anger has led you into many hot soups. You still have not learnt to hold your tongue. But you'll get there I'm sure.

It's ok if you don't know what you want to be, because 10 years from now, you'll have a rough idea. You'll achieve your seemingly impossible ambition of being a writer and a designer but only one pays the bills! You still love doing both.

You also finally meet a guy that gives you butterflies in your tummy. You're with someone you love on good days and who infuriates you on bad days but there are still more good days than bad. It’s hard to see it at 17, but you'll actually go through a number of relationships and flings before finding him but you're very happy right now. You still have that check-list and he pretty much measures up. *yeay!*

Mel, one thing you gotta do is stop fretting about the hair! At 27, people love it and so do you! (well, most days.) You've learnt to embrace your curls and the only regret I have right now is not discovering the wonderful 'curl creme' from Boots sooner.

One advice I'd give to you is to take bigger risks. Stop being lazy and actually DO what you’ve set your heart to do... You’ve got tons of great ideas so take ACTION! And remember to speak up babe. You're still super soft sometimes.

You won't always be 'Miss-goody-two-shoes'. You're pretty feisty and you show some new colours at University and you begin to question if that's who you really are, but just hold on to your principles and always depend on The Big Guy and you'll be alright.

You'll also find out that people are cruel, guys are asses and girls are bitches. But you'll learn to sort out expectations and learn that some people become the rule while others you meet are the exceptions.

You're still labeled "Nice" but a few have seen and experienced a whole other you and claim you’re pure evil, which kind of balances up the niceness.

Wear anything you want, because you can! The three-colour rule is crap! Remember the bright pink shorts and Golfer tee and black boots phase… well that’s sorta back. Heh.

Keep Writing. And save all your work!!

Remember how good it feels to do a back-handspring/ a walkover? In a few years, that skill will be gone. However, all those sit-ups and leg-lifts they made you do at synchronized swimming training totally pays off! You don't develop a gut till ten years later. But that's cause you're pretty much a TV-watching lump right now. You should head outdoors more.

The closests friends you have right now are the ones who will stick with you. You're still friends with 'The Girls' from high school and they're part of the bestest things in your life. Their craziness actually keeps you sane and you're still all a bunch a mismatched hodgepodge of characters and you love them to bits!

You meet a new set of girls at Uni and you totally get the whole sisterhood thing. They help you through so much and know you inside-out and you'd be long gone if it weren't for them.

Remember how your little sister annoys the crap out of you? 10 years from now, she still does! She's still a brat but you love her to bits! You eventually make up for making her cry every day. On the bright side, she's now one tough nut!

Your family is still very loud and a little screwed up but they’re God-sent and you’re so blessed to have them. You have more patience now because of them. They’re irreplaceable. J

You and The Big Guy go through many many ups and downs and life’s been pretty much a whirlwind on this journey. But yesterday, after talking to an old friend, you realise you’ve grown, and it’s the bestest feeling ever. It feels like the world is painted in colours only you can see and it feels like there’s a song waiting to burst forth from you when you’re walking in the street. Life’s sometimes not what you picture it to be but you’re ok with that. You learn to pray for Joy every morning and that’s what you live on – sunshine and fresh air and all-surpassing Joy.

It might feel like a façade or a front you put on, but you push past the doubt and just KNOW that it’s Joy which comes from above. And it fills your God-space and you know – you’ll be ok.

Mel, even though you're convinced you might die young, and you're even sometimes a hypochondriac, you're very much alive and kicking at 27. You even love yourself more in a non-narcissistic kinda way, and have come to terms with being the little oddball.

You'll soon realise that people love you for exactly who you are. And babe, seriously, don't sweat the small stuff. You're still a worrywart and you get panic attacks so please take a chill pill.

Big hugs from your older (and wiser) self!

Melisa, The 27-year old

Find a Centre

2010-10-25T12:05:00.002+08:00

This came as a pleasant surprise in my mail box this morning. A connection made - God sent for sure.

"Being spread thin is something that seems to happen more and more in the rush of daily life, running around getting things done for other people, all the little things that eat away at your time. And the big loss is not that of time, but of attention - the presence of the self to observe, experience and be aware of life. I think you must choose what is important."

Find a center.
A quiet space
A hidey-hole
behind closed doors where the outside world rages

and to look at it madly boiling away
this
blink of an eternity
with a mildly inquiring eye,
and watch,

that while
the world is the world is the world is all you ever have
you cannot own it or control it
wrap it or ride it
without first looking outside, and looking within,
finding the sweet strange splitsecond spot
in the center of the whirlwind.

Don't lose yourself.

Jaeson Ma - Love

2010-10-22T11:57:00.002+08:00

It is good to be a woman:

2010-10-22T09:59:00.001+08:00

1. We got off the Titanic first.
2. We can scare male bosses with the mysterious gynecological disorder excuses.
3. Taxis stop for us.
4. We don't look like a frog in a blender when dancing.
5. No fashion faux pas we make, could ever rival the Speedo.
6. We don't have to pass gas to amuse ourselves.
7. If we forget to shave, no one has to know.
8. We can congratulate our teammate without ever touching her rear end.
9. We never have to reach down every so often to make sure our privates are still there.
10. We have the ability to dress ourselves.
11. We can talk to the opposite sex without having to picture them naked.
12. If we marry someone 20 years younger, we are aware that we will look like an idiot.
13. We will never regret piercing our ears.
14. There are times when chocolate really can solve all your problems.
15. We can make comments about how silly men are in their presence because they aren't listening anyway.

we all scream for ice-cream!!

2010-10-21T19:04:00.009+08:00

So guess what! Geláre is finally open at e@Curve and its gonna be my new favourite ice-cream joint. :D

Geláre is an Italian word that means "to freeze" or "congeal" and this ice cream originates from Italy. Wow, that's my little 'public service-did-you-know' of the day. According to their site, they use all-natural ingredients with absolutely no artificial flavouring, colouring or preservatives.

I tried the Honey Malt Crunch and it is DIVINE!!

And what's best is.... somehow this hasn't triggered my stomach and lil ol' lactose intolerant me is absolutely fine! But of course - everything in moderation lah.

Music Monday: Lissie

2010-10-11T12:39:00.001+08:00

Growing up in high school, I listened to Metallica and absolutely loved the song, "Nothing Else Matters". And I especially loved the version in the S&M album. We had a Live DVD/VCD version and I probrably watched "Nothing Else Matters" and "Enter Sandman" over and over again! I mean it's an amazing song. The guitar solos are orgasmic and ahh well you get the picture.

So anyways... I've always wanted to do a cover of them too. But it's been done like over fourty times maybe and I think even the Vienna Boys' Choir did a version of that song. But what I haven't really seen is a good female cover. That is... until Lissie. (No offense to Shakira. I'm sure her cover was great too!)

Apparently, Lissie has had her songs appear on Grey's Anatomy, House, The OC, SYTYCD etc. Well, check it!

The Gawkerverse

2010-10-08T11:09:00.000+08:00

You guys HAVE to visit The Gawkerverse!
It's got beautiful pictures from dwellinggawker, foodgawker, weddinggawker and craftgawker.

It's amazingggg!!!!

IRC Dance Movement

2010-09-27T15:54:00.001+08:00

IRC dance movement from . on Vimeo.

Music Monday: Moby

2010-09-20T16:09:00.001+08:00

I came across this on YouTube and i'm just drawn to this song. NPR Music's Project Song challenges musicians to come up with a song in just two days and every Project Song participant has worked right up to the last minute — that is, until Moby. He collaborated with Kelli Scarr on this and finished their song in a little more than a day. In fact, they had so much time left over, they recorded a second version of the song! If you dig this, check out the acoustic version on the site. :D

Spring flowers

2010-09-03T14:22:00.001+08:00

Today, I feel a little bit like Kiera in this lovely picture.

I'm totally a flower power person but I'm not entirely dainty and nice. I've always had an extreme urge to put on a floral dress and chunky high heels and go out and play in the sun. I knew I was more a spring person altho born in an autumn month!

Floral dresses are owh so fun but lets not get overboard! Pair them with black leggings to ground your look, (or cover unsightly pieces) or add cool and neutral coloured accessories for an edgy look.

Still re-thinking the leggings in our fine Malaysian weather? Well the RM25 dresses at Sg Wang are just wayyyy too short to wear without pants or leggings. So unless you've got em good like Giselse Bundchen I'd really advice on some pants.

Juice Box Camera

2010-08-04T15:25:00.000+08:00

I just made my first camera purchase since 2002. *beams*
I'm literally giggling with glee and I can't wait for my little camera to arrive in the mail tomorrow.

My colleague sent me a link to The Click Shop and we've been checking out all the lomo cameras they have and falling in love with every single one of them. And I just couldn't resist the cuteness of the Juice & Milk Box Cameras.

The innovative 35 mm camera is hidden within funky designed drink boxes and this genius camera was created by Fuuvi, a Japanese design firm based in Tokyo.

Next on my wishlist... Blackbird, fly

Music Monday: Tyrone Wells

2010-07-26T17:34:00.001+08:00

This is such a happy Monday song. Just what i need to gear up for the week. :)
I can't quite remember how i stumbled across Tyrone Wells but he's got such happy folk-pop, bouncy guitar-driven songs. But of course Ryan Green adds his awesomeness to the song too.

Owh and did you notice the TWLOHA 'Love Movement' t-shirt he has on? I like!

the LWD obsession

2010-07-23T16:33:00.000+08:00

The little white dress is something that I've been looking for over the past couple of years. It's the one item that's clearly missing from my wardrobe creating that empty space and dark hole where a white floaty swishy dress should be.

In this Malaysian weather, a little white dress can take you anywhere - from the grocery store in flip flops to a weekend shopping spree in sandals to a wedding in metallic heels.

But people often think twice before purchasing a LWD due to poor fabric choices and the easy stain-ability. I thik there should be more linen like fabric choices around, or thick cotton that won't appear sheer in the bright Malaysian sun. (Unless you don't mind people spotting the I♥VS on your orange scanties)

And if you're a klutz like me, a travel sized stain remover works wonders for a quick fix if you happen to get your pretty little dress dirty.

in pursuit

2010-06-17T13:24:00.000+08:00

(via themoondust)

I've been watching Sex In The City again and as much as I love Carrie's takes on life and sex, I can't help wondering if women of today really buy into all that stuff.

Well I was taking to another Mel the other day and she said something that was so true. You know the BIG questions guys often ask?

"What do women want?"

Its simple really. They just want to be pursued, to be “wooed and won” to be asked out.

Most of us grow up looking at movies that show us how far a man would go for a girl but when it comes to real life we get a bit disappointed cause it doesn't actually happen that way.

Speaking to the girls in my life, I realised that many of us have taken on the roles of the guy. In today's society its gutsy for the girl to make the first move, to make the plans, to call the shots. But what are all the guys doing?

Well I do admit that most of the guys I know are real gentlemen. They open doors, pull out chairs, offer to carry your stuff, give you lifts and all that jazz and I really respect you guys for that.

What I don't get, is what happens after you've 'won the girl over'?

The scene's changes. Suddenly the chase is not as fun anymore. You've won your prize and you can just relax now....

Here's when the guys stop making phone calls, and stop making plans and stops giving compliments, cause hey...you've already got her right?

It ain't that easy pal! You've still got to work to keep and preserve what you have. The persuit doesn't end! Youve gotta take the effort!

Girls don't NEED a knight in shining armour. We just WANT one. You know... just in case we get attacked in the street. heh.

Girls don't NEED a handy-man or a weight-lifter. We can handle power tools. (seriously!)

There's a lot more things that the feminist in me is bursting to let out but I think you can probably figure it out on your own right. Girls are...complicating creatures I know. But all we want is to be persued. To be paid a little attention..okay A LOT of attention.

Go have a conversation. There's tons you still don't know about your friend or girlfriend or even your fiancée or wife. Girls are a mysterious sort. We think a lot and over analyze and you might even discover this whole other person in here.

Think Wonder Woman - complete with costume and all.

Pacman

2010-05-25T12:27:00.000+08:00

This is by far my favouritest Goggle banner ever.

But of course Colour Me Katie takes things to bigger proportions which I absolutely love too!

50 Ways You Can Create a Better Day

2010-05-19T09:57:00.000+08:00

Think Positive Thoughts Before You Sleep
The quality of sleep you get the night before can affect your mood the next day. Thus, if you want to create a better day tomorrow, you have to make sure that you think only positive things before you go to bed at night. Do not fret about your mortgage problems or dwell on the bad things that happened to you during the day. You need a good night’s rest in order to prepare your mind and body for the busy day ahead.
Tell yourself That Today is a Better Day
The first thing that you should say to yourself the moment you wake up is that today will be great and marvelous. Know that you have control of what kind of day you will have. Telling yourself that today is going to be a great day will give you a positive attitude and a winner’s outlook. The power of the mind is strong so feed your mind with positive things.
Wake Up a Few Minutes Earlier
If you want to get out of bed at 6AM, set the alarm for 5:45 and then allow 15 minutes for your body and mind to adjust and wake up. At 6, hop out of bed! Waking up late and rushing through things will increase your heart rate and simply stress you out. On top of that, you’ll inevitably forget to do something and then stress about that too!
Take It Easy
Take things easy. Breathe deeply and slowly. If you are feeling rushed, take a deep breath and remind yourself that in the big scheme of life, being a minute late is pretty small.
Keep a Mental Note of the Things You Need to Do
It is always a good thing to try to keep a list of the things that you ought to do or accomplish for the day. If you are forgetful, you should write these things down. Aside from the things that you need to do at the office, you also need to remember those that you need to do for your family or friends. Write them all down so that you can manage your time wisely throughout the day.
Get Some Inspiration
Do not expect manna to come down from heaven. If you want to create a better day, you have to make a conscious effort to achieve things. Give yourself a boost with some inspiration. Be sure to read, listen or watch something that can perk your day up. Sometimes, just seeing your child laugh is enough to make your heart smile.
Eat a Healthy Breakfast
Your mood for the day can actually be affected by the things that you do and eat. In order to jump start your day and prepare your mind and body for the busy day ahead, you need to have a power breakfast. Make sure that you eat something healthy. Whole grains, protein, and fruits can surely give you the nutrients that you need to do the things that you need to accomplish for the day.
Some Stretching Will Do You Good
Stretching and exercising your muscles will also help in jumpstarting your system. If you wake up sluggish, you need some exercise and stretching to perk up your day. Besides, stretching and exercising can also prevent muscle cramps and other aches that can ruin your mood for the day.
Pay Attention to your Hygiene and Appearance
One of the things that people are conscious about is their appearance. To ensure you won’t feel insecure, make sure to take a bath, wear clean clothes and pay attention to your face and grooming. If you know that you look presentable, you will feel empowered and confident.
Compliment Yourself
Say good things about yourself. Do not be afraid to compliment yourself once in a while. However, be careful not to be conceited because people hate narcissistic individuals.
Adopt a Positive Attitude
Before you step out of the house, make it a conscious effort to be positive in all things you do. Tell yourself that you will stay positive throughout the day.

Exert Some Effort to Smile
Studies show that smiling, even if there is no reason to do it, can lift up your mood. Besides, a smile can make you look even more attractive.
Try Not To Be Reactive
There is a tendency for men to react to everything negatively, especially on the road. Thus, you should try not to be reactive, especially when you are driving. If somebody cuts you on the road, just let it pass and think that the other guy may be having a bad day. Or just be please that you are not as rude as that individual.
Count to Ten to Keep You from Exploding
If you think that you are going to get mad, count to ten to calm your nerves. This will let some steam out.
Think before You Act
Many people end up feeling remorse after they have done nasty things without thinking. To prevent feeling guilty and remorseful, think first before you do something.
Don’t Take Things Too Seriously
Not everything that you hear people say about you should be taken seriously. Some people just like being nasty so you should not get affected with what they are saying.
Be More Attentive to People
In order to minimize altercations or misunderstandings, it would really be a good thing to listen attentively to what others are saying. Being attentive will also help you come across as being sincere, thus making you more likable. Of course, don’t do it for the sake of being likable. Be genuine in it.

Look at People and Situations in a Positive Light
You really can’t prevent bad things from happening. Sometimes shit does happen. In order not to let these things ruin your day, try to look for the silver lining in everything.

Give Compliments to Other People
Make a conscious effort to compliment other people. This will help build better relationships. Just make sure that you are complimenting them genuinely.

Manage Your Time Wisely
A good day can turn bad if you feel stressed out. Thus, manage your time wisely to ensure that everything that you need to do can be accomplished with time to spare.

Take a Break
To prevent being burned out, you should take a break once in a while. Try walking around the office or doing some stretching while you are in your desk every time you are feeling a bit drained.

Deal with Things the Mature Way
Do not be petty and do not act like a child. You are an adult so try to do things maturely.

Laugh a Lot
Laughter can pick up your mood. Just do not laugh at other people’s mistakes.

Consider Inputs from Other People
Take time listening to the suggestions and inputs of other people. Even if you are the manager or head of your department, you need other people’s contributions too.

Grab Fruit Instead of a Bar of Chocolate
Fruits can surely wake you up in the middle of the day, whereas a bar of chocolate will just give you energy spike for a few minutes. So, you will end up feeling even more tired and sleepy.

Always Do Your Best
You will not have regrets if you know that you have given your all in everything that you do.

Don’t Wallow in Sorrow and Defeat
Nobody is perfect and sometimes you need to experience losses and defeats to learn. Instead of wallowing in self-pity, use these negative things to make you a better person.

Stay Away From Negative People
Negative people can just pull you down so there is really no point in spending your time with them. Stay away from them whenever possible. If they happen to be your mates, seek to inspire them. If that won’t do, perhaps it’s time to find yourself new mates.

Be Courteous and Kind
Doing other people some good will give you a warm and fuzzy feeling. And also make you more likable.

Build Bridges and Develop Friendships
Having enemies can surely drain your energy, whereas building friendships can make your support team bigger and stronger.

Be Careful with What You Say
It is often hard to take back the bad things that you say, so you need to be careful with your words.

Take Time to Stop and Smell the Flowers
You can enhance your mood by counting your blessings and seeing the good in other people, things or situations.

Learn to Pace Your Energy
You need to be careful with energy bursts and crashes. Try not to exhaust yourself in the morning because you will surely have a nasty and tiring afternoon if you do.

Incorporate Exercise Throughout the Day
Exercise can give you a “high” because endorphins are released after a good workout.

Wear Comfortable Shoes
It is very hard to stay positive if your feet are hurting. I’ve seen too many of my female friends wear heels that hurt their feet just because they look good.

Drink Plenty of Water
Dehydration can cause lethargy. So avoid it at all costs.

Pay Attention to What You Eat
Eating junk food can contribute to mood swings. So eat moderately.

Go Easy on the Coffee
Too much coffee can make you nervous and fidgety.

Treat Yourself
Be sure to give yourself small rewards every time you did well. We all need to give ourselves a nice pat on the shoulders to give ourselves a little encouragement.

Plan the Next Day before Going Home
Before you head home, make a list of the things that you need to accomplish in the office the following day.

Spend Quality Time with the People You Love
Don’t take anyone for granted. Sustain your relationships. Spending quality time together is the best way to keep and improve relationships.

Keep in Touch With Friends and Family
If you live alone, calling your loved ones or just dropping by to say ‘hi’ can lift your spirit as well as theirs.

Have a Hobby
To keep your mind off your work, do something that you love outside your office work.

Have No Regrets
You cannot go back in time so you cannot undo the things that you have done. Instead, make a conscious effort to make things better in the future.

Keep a Journal
Writing things and ideas down can help you to keep track of your goals and remember things you’ve learned and observations you’ve made. And it can also help you figure out new directions for your life and then guide you as you go.

Take a Relaxing Bath
After a stressful day, a relaxing bath can help you go to sleep comfortably.

Prepare the Things You Need Before You Go to Sleep
This will help make tomorrow less stressful because you won’t feel at a lost of what to do. Being prepared always help you to stay focused and assured.

Get in the Mood to Sleep
Do the things that can help you go to sleep early because a restful sleep can help you improve your mood for the next day. Reading a book before bed or listening to soft music helps me to sleep better.

Make Love
Making love can also release endorphins and help you have a good night’s sleep. Plus, it helps to improve your relationship. Of course, I don’t expect you to do it every day.

Go to Bed Early
Try to go to bed early and get enough sleep to prepare yourself for the day ahead tomorrow. You don’t want to wake up the next day feeling like a zombie.

(via http://thetravellingmich.tumblr.com

via www.dumblittleman.com)

i hope you dance...

2010-05-18T15:39:00.000+08:00

:) http://beautyineverything.com

the road...

2010-05-18T12:44:00.000+08:00

Via http://thetravellingmich.tumblr.com

Via http://Babycakes8.tumblr.com

Music Monday: Two Door Cinema Club

2010-05-18T11:14:00.001+08:00

Found via Mighty Girl

Now i'm not really one that's into Electropop but Two Door Cinema Club is an Electropop/Indie Rock band from Ireland and they sound pretty darn good. :D Or maybe i'm just in an Electropop sorta mood. heh.

Brogues.... I want you!!!

2010-05-13T12:37:00.000+08:00

I'm bordering on obsession here. Like seriously? How cool are these brogues! I first fell in love with them when i saw them in an old musical I watched as a kid. Owh what i would give for the perfect pair! Well I had one when I was in my teens - a hand me down - they were gorgeous tho. But obviously the growth sput didn't help and I outgrew them. Gahh.

So far I've only seen two which I absolutely adored but what a pity they were on someone elses feet!

Brogues from Madewell via Pillar Box Post

Brogues from JCrew via Pillar Box Post

Image via Chictopia

Music Monday: Gary Go

2010-05-10T13:10:00.001+08:00

Happy Monday everyone! This is a new ish band which was recommended to me by an Italian guy i met in Singapore. He says it's his running music. Heh. It's not usually what I listen to but it's sorta catchy. It's playing on loop today. :)

Decisions! Decisions! Decisions!

2010-05-03T14:54:00.000+08:00

http://notebookdoodles.blogspot.com/2010/01/update-on-diaryplanner.html

Decisions! Decisions! Decisions!
Life is full of it! And we make hundreds of decisions everyday. From the moment we wake up, we've made a choice. Most are automatic while others are informed decisions. I consider myself a fairly decisive person, but not when it comes to picking a place to eat, choosing an item off a menu, what shoes to wear, which earring matches my outfit etc. Those things take me quite awhile!

Occasionally we are compelled to make vitally important and life changing decisions. Which car to buy? Which college to apply to? What course to take? To move or to stay? To say Yes/No? I do? So what is it that helps making a choice that much easier? Here's some steps which I apply that have so far seen me through really tough circumstances....

A positive attitude to life helps make decision making easier. It helps curb fear and eases you to make a move. I believe that there is no one "right solution" to the problem you are confronting. We are all given instincts so listen to it, but don't make snap decisions. Some decisions just can't be made in a "Blink"

Make a list of options and alternatives. Write down every option you have for the decision you’re making, get it out of your head and spend some quality time on each one. Weigh the decision and make a list of the pros and cons connected with the decision. You may find that something on your list clearly goes against your values or your capabilities.

Distance gives perspective. It’s the oldest advice out there – separate yourself from the emotions of the moment. Put some time between now and when you actually make the decision. Give yourself time and space to mull over your options.

Don't fear making a mistake.Mistakes are just learning curves and opportunities to learn. We all make them. And then, we get better at life and move on.

Research! Research! Research! Do your homework and get all the facts before you make the decision. Think how the decision will benefit YOU first. Do what you and not what other people really want.

Talk to someone that will contribute important insight, answer questions, remove doubts and confirm inclinations. Get opinions and feedback from others you trust; but don't let them make the decision for you.

Be prepared to take a few risks in life and look out for opportunities in every situation. Every successful business or venture started out with an idea which was a risk. Nothing is infallible. The knowledge that you can handle anything that comes your way is your key to allowing yourself to take risks. In the end, it's how you handle things that matter.

Finally, make the decision concrete. You can endlessly re-analyze and agonize over what you’ve decided. You have to stop sometime. Make it real, write it down. Once your decision is out of your head and in the real world, your brain can stop constantly churning through the options and get on with the next task.

One of the greatest and easiest ways to decipher if you've made a correct decision about something is to determine if you feel a strong sense of peace about it. The Bible says that God will give us His peace, which surpasses all understanding. If, after praying about something and making your decision, you feel a great sense of peace come over you and stay with you, then you have probably made a great decision that God can and will work with.

"God, the Source of Life", will never give you a desire, a vision, an individual dream without your having the ability/potential for it to come to pass." ~ Craig Lock

things i've learned

2010-05-03T14:38:00.000+08:00

If you're a graphic designer or in advertising, one of the first names you would have come across is Stefan Sagmeister. Owner of the design firm Sagmeister Inc. in New York City, he's known as a design God. Like seriously.

After watching him on TED Talks, I've taken to writing down some of the things he has discovered over the years...

Things I've learned in my life so far:

helping other people helps me
having guts always works out for me
thinking life will be better in the future is stupid. i have to live now
starting a charity is surprisingly easy
being not truthful works against me
everyting i do always comes back to me
assuming is stifling
drugs feel great in the beginning and become a drag later on
over time i get used to everything and start taking for granted
money does not make me happy
travelling alone is helpful for a new perspective on life
keeping a diary supports personal development
trying to look good limits my life
material luxuries are best enjoyed in small doses
worrying solves nothing
complaining is silly. either act or forget
actually doing the things I set out to do increases my overall level of satisfaction
everybody thinks they are right
low expectations are a good strategy
whatever I want to explore professionally, its best to try it out for myself first
everybody who is honest is interesting

And then of course there's that chance to use these sudden inspirations and get creative! Like here: http://thingsihavelearnedinmylife.com/

Eat Pray Love

2010-04-29T14:56:00.000+08:00

I'm still trying to get through this:

That's gonna be hitting the big screens soon and starring Julia Roberts!!

But, it's been a drag trying to get through the book. I mean Italy sounded fun and all but when she got to India all the yoga and meditation crap kinda put me off and then Indonesia seemed... i dunno... like too "the universe conspired" sorta thing. But now i've just come across this:

Now i'm intrigued. hehe

Music Monday: Sigur Ros

2010-04-26T16:00:00.001+08:00

Dance is dreaming with your feet

2010-03-22T00:29:00.000+08:00

Life is art

2010-03-18T17:07:00.000+08:00

Via http://icanread.tumblr.com/ (via http://overrated.tumblr.com/)

Round & About with Dr. Jo

2010-03-18T15:11:00.000+08:00

Name: Joanne Low

Age: 25 going on 16
Occupation: Aspiring Doctor
Location: Kuala Lumpur

Places I've been: Malaysia, Thailand, Australia. (haven't travelled much)

Priceless holiday moments: Winery hopping in Barossa Valley of Southern Australia

Best holiday destination: Pulau Perhentian, in Kuala Terengganu, Malaysia

Going solo: Bring sunblock! (laughs)... seriously, be aware of your surroundings.

Exceptional place you have ever stepped foot in: Malacca!

Best buys: 150 baht T-shirt!!

Most recent holiday: Koh Samui, Thailand

Travel must-haves: SUNNIES!!!

Weird encounters: Getting sexually harrassed by a frenchman in the beach of Perhentian, and bronze pigs of Rundle Mall, Adelaide

tulle-rific!

2010-03-09T18:50:00.000+08:00

Image via dress design decor.

We're gonna have a fun girly week ahead!

Pictures of the day

2009-05-19T16:14:00.001+08:00

Found via FFFFound

coulda, shoulda, woulda,

2009-05-12T17:43:00.000+08:00

At this point, we're all a little lost. But reaching back I remember what Carrie Bradshaw once said... “As we drive along this road called life, occasionally a gal will find herself a little lost. And when that happens, I guess she has to let go of the coulda, shoulda, woulda, buckle up and just keep going.”

Colours

2009-02-11T17:09:00.000+08:00

Current Inspiration. I'm trying to rework our house but its been really difficult but hopefully we'll get more settled once we clear out more junk. heh.

Music Monday: Driving On City Sidewalks

2009-02-10T14:26:00.001+08:00

Discovered this recently and it's definitely good to share! This band makes me happy. Driving On City Sidewalks.
:)