tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-361656092024-03-14T01:36:32.006+08:00COMPULSIVE MANICThe musings and rantings of my soulSonicstarbursthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16511376757802854118noreply@blogger.comBlogger87125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36165609.post-51939469701012033222010-01-04T18:20:00.002+08:002010-01-04T18:24:22.780+08:00New Year, New PostDusting the cobwebs off this blog. I only had 2 posts for the whole of 2009. Writing, other than for work has always been therapeutic, less fattening than baking and eating and not damaging to the wallet like retail adventures.<br /><br />Should I unlock this blog? I had to lock it up for various reasons...some of which haven't entirely gone away...Decisions decisions...yet another decision to confront this 4th day of 2010.<br /><br />Happy New Year if you are still reading this blog.Sonicstarbursthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16511376757802854118noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36165609.post-89158878255776846192009-02-12T16:10:00.004+08:002009-02-12T16:27:44.973+08:00Observations on SMRT 960Now that I have become a parent, I have started thinking about imparting values to my daughter. These include the simplest of things such as etiquette to intrinsic things such as being a good person. Good being relative of course.<br /><br />I've even wondered whether she'll pick up the habit of picking her nose in public! This springing largely from my hubby and my obsession as new parents to pick the 'booger' out of her nostrils. We can see that the little gal, at two months and two weeks is probably thinking that her parents are a bunch of nutters! Such satisfaction derived from a big nugget from her delicate nostrils! <br /><br />I got to thinking on the bus yesterday as I was on SMRT 960, on my way to work. Two boys, brothers perhaps, from an elite school along service 960's route got on at last stop in Bukit Panjang. Instead of moving to the rear, the two of them sat on the steps of the bendy bus, oblivious to the stares from fellow commuters. The younger boy whipped out his HP and began his game. The elder boy closed his eyes and dozed off. The former teacher in me had the great urge to tap them on their shoulders to get them to stand at the rear like everyone else. I was concerned about their safety too, it is kind of dangerous sitting on the door steps. I was also ready to say I knew some teachers at their school, which I did. Decided to mind my own business in the end. Probably afraid of the other passengers' reactions to my actions.<br /><br />It's kind of sad to see how graciousness is slowly slipping out of our culture. Little things seem to have faded away. I can count the number of times other passengers gave up their seats when I was pregnant. Or how about the young couple who was oblivious to an elderly man standing right in front of them on the MRT? They were glued to their I-Phone as they watched a movie! It's also the society that I have brought my daughter into. I do hope that she'll grow up being caring and gracious and not oblivious. It's a journey that any new parent must surely worry and ponder about.Sonicstarbursthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16511376757802854118noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36165609.post-30189130995177987482009-02-12T16:00:00.003+08:002009-02-12T16:08:44.271+08:00UPDATESChristmas came and went...with an exciting adventure on the eve. New Year came and went and the Lunar New Year came and went! Second time around having to dole out ang pows...had a brief hiatus from 2003 to 2008 from giving ang pows out. This time around it will be for the long haul! Expensive exercise...even if the baby gets some back. It goes to her CDA Baby Bonus account!<br /><br />Trying to adjust to the eventuality of returning to work! Whole new environment as I see some changes in leadership at work. Harder still now that I have a new baby to leave behind as I try to climb the corporate ladder.Something I have not done well in since I started work. Leaves me to think I should have stayed at my first job as subsequent ones after a disaster at the second one triggered a whole chain reaction career wise. The perennial 'What if' - a dangerous question to ask! Something historians, or at least this one, tend to dwell on. One that often causes a regression for me in my personal and professional life! Wonder if getting a life coach would help! If only they didn't charge many arms and legs!<br /><br />Will try to blog more often...otherwise I will return to the good ole fashion pen and paper journal. Who wants to read the random rantings of an average nobody anyway? Haha.Sonicstarbursthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16511376757802854118noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36165609.post-15239701907424322562008-12-23T23:03:00.003+08:002008-12-23T23:11:22.447+08:00MullingMuch has happened. I celebrated a birthday, I started the house moving process and am half way in the somewhat new place and I became a mom on Dec 2. As the year draws to close, can't help but wonder if next year will be better. They say the RAT year should have been a good one for me as a rat but I am not sure about that. 2 good things came out of it - hubby and baby. All within a space of 3 months.<br /><br />Mulling over a tough decision now - well 2 tough decisions actually. And am stuck in another moment I can't get out of. Despite tips from 2 friends that say my blog and MSN taglines always seem so morbid. I wish I could day otherwise but I can't as another mini-crisis blows on the horizon. Just my Christmas wish that there be joy, peace and love for all. My best gifts for Xmas are the 2 main people in my life, a family I can finally say is my own. But certainly, Santa (and God) knows what I really would like for Christmas.Sonicstarbursthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16511376757802854118noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36165609.post-62889933341409943782008-10-14T21:12:00.002+08:002008-10-14T21:20:14.611+08:00MIRACLESI am not the most pious or faithful of Christians. My faith journey has never been an easy one. Given the recent developments since 2002, I feel like I have lost my faith or more, I have lost my communion with God. I know He is still watching over me but it seems harder and harder to say 'Thy will be done Lord' because each time I say that, more disasters happen and situations reach calamity levels. Like now. Maybe people will say that I merely testing God but I have been raised with the notion that God helps those who help themselves.<br /><br />Yet I look at family and friends who have so much passion and faith and feel as if maybe if I pray more or be more fervent and regular in going to church, things will work out for the best. Yet something in me also finds that so wrong, as if I were making use of God. <br /><br />Of course, there are issues, which some of my closest pals term 'Catholic guilt' which makes it very very hard for me to get back to my faith and to God. I don;t feel worthy at all but then again, all these are created by man. <br /><br />All I know right now is I am facing a very difficult situation, a big cross and I really hope for a miracle at this very moment or else I really don;t know what else to do.<br /><br />Lord - where are you? Can you hear me?Sonicstarbursthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16511376757802854118noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36165609.post-20103020582026188582008-09-07T21:52:00.002+08:002008-09-07T21:55:19.708+08:00Bringing Cheer when the Chips are Down!<object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/4Zv9vRz4QYM&hl=en&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/4Zv9vRz4QYM&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br />A colleague showed this to us last week. Helped me get through a challenging week! Which will carry on for next week....I am still writing though demoralised. The chicks' laughter - simply infectious!Sonicstarbursthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16511376757802854118noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36165609.post-21250195721560795912008-09-03T22:49:00.002+08:002008-09-03T22:58:24.294+08:00SOLACEI should really be working, though it's close to 11pm and I've had a 12 hour day. Deadlines to meet, things to get ready for.Things weighing heavily on my mind. The muggy weather and the rain isn't helping to lift the mood at all.<br /><br />I've developed a phobia - a phobia for writing. Today more than any other day, I have developed a greater phobia for writing and started pondering even more about work and the direction I am headed. Funny how something that used to bring me solace is something I need solace from. What happens when something you have been told all your life that you are good at, turns out to be a bigger liability? I am feeling that right now. <br /><br />Work - 6 months going on 7 and I still feel a sense of frustration. A rage at myself. Some situations occurred today alone which has me thinking...pondering. All these feelings festering and all these fears, worries that are sweeping my mind. Have I become a liability? am I becoming redundant? Is it time to move on???<br /><br />SOLACE...and some clarity and silver lining...always seems so elusive.Sonicstarbursthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16511376757802854118noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36165609.post-40681207087316200072008-08-20T21:51:00.002+08:002008-08-20T21:54:41.653+08:00Hanging up the bootsBeen ages since I updated. So much has happened since February 2008. So much more will be happening. Today was a day that has left me so frustrated that I want to scream, shout and have all this anguish going on. Work and personal stuff weighing heavily on my mind.<br /><br />Remember the 'Merry-go-rounds' at the playgrounds and how one is anxious to get off when the neighbourhood bully holds you hostage? I am feeling like that now...someone let me get off. please.Sonicstarbursthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16511376757802854118noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36165609.post-65632876926247333982008-02-23T08:47:00.003+08:002008-02-23T09:00:26.674+08:00ENOUGH.Been crying and on MSN messenger with a guy friend of mine. He didn't make me cry but was trying to comfort me over some comments passed at dinner last night. Haven't slept a wink all night after a friend commented that I look older than the rest of the group. Note I wasn't impressed, since they were all a year older than me.For the love of a very dear friend who was there, I stopped myself from walking away. Didn't want to appear petty or childish. My guy pal's take is I shouldn't have been the passive doormat and let the person get away with such remarks. <br /><br />Everyone else attributed it to 'Oh, it's her nature', 'You know her' etc. Instead, I feel 'victimised' as I am now made to feel that I am the overly-sensitive person. How can I not be when I am constantly being put down.The person, whether knowingly or otherwise, hit me at the fundamental things that are hurting me very much at this point in my life. People never realise that each of us have our own crosses and burdens to bear in life. <br /><br />What do I do? Beyond trying to be Christian and forgive that person, maybe it's time to be practical. There's a limit to how much one can take, even if it's comments from a friend.Sonicstarbursthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16511376757802854118noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36165609.post-19897886698069016262008-01-14T19:12:00.000+08:002008-01-24T07:05:29.505+08:00My Japanese Noodle ObesssionIt's a chilly, gray evening. Perfect for a nice bowl of hot noodles. I have over the past couple of months discovered that I am not completely over Japanese ramen. So I am going to steer away from moody, broody, angsty posts and focus on Japanese noodles. Pardon the lack of photos - will get around to that. It's just that we hardly plan to go to these makan joints and it's usually on the fly!<br /><br />(1) Tsuru Tsuru Tei<br /> B1, Liang Court, inside Meidi-Ya Supermarket<br />This joint has been around for quite sometime I think. Probably when Daimaru was still at Liang Court. Re-discovered it sometime in 2005 when we started going to Meidi-Ya to grab specialty Japanese ingredients.<br /><br />Never got around to trying the counter as my parents were not very fond of Japanese food. My early recollections of Japanese food was at the Yaohan cafes in Plaza Singapura and Thomson Plaza. Dad didn't quite have the knack for ordering Japanese food and we stuck to safe things like tempura. One bad episode with Nabeyaki udon was enough to send me off Japanese food until Sakae sushi came along. I still don't DIG nabeyaki udon, by the way.Memories of the udon served on Northwest Airlines' Tokyo-Seattle leg also acted as a deterrent.<br /><br />Until I chanced on Tsuru Tsuru Tei(T3) of course. It's changed my opinion on udon.They serve my favorite seafood or vegetable kakiage udon. Tried a few at chain stores like Sushi Tei but it just doesn't hit the spot the way that T3's does. They may not have a comprehensive menu but they do udon well. There are also seasonal flavors - a personal fave of mine is ume or plum. Can't quite pin down when they have ume udon but the manager (a friendly bespectacled chap called Philip if I remember correctly) whispered that I could try and request for it. If udon isn't your cuppa, they do have some don(rice) dishes. Though I must confess, I have not tried those at all.<br /><br />Prices are reasonable - nothing more than $11 per bowl. You can also make your own combinations. Most of the stock is bonito based I think or at least that's what the seafood expert Draks tells me.<br /><br />(2) Menya Shinchan<br /> Somewhere at Robertson Walk, next to a Thai cafe<br />I stumbled on this little ramen shop when I was based at the Robertson Quay for Singapore Fashion Week 07. Ended up trying it when the ever popular Miharu was closed. Boy were we pleasantly surprised. 3 visits later, we are still being presently surprised by Menya. What I like about the joint is that the noodles are handmade on site, as are the skins for the gyozas. You can even see the proprietor running from the little room where the dough machine and the kitchen when someone calls out for a gyoza order. <br /><br />They sure have a wide range of soup bases for their noodles - bonito or pork-based. Even these can be broken down further to various flavors, shoyu (soy sauce), shio(salt) or miso (soy bean paste). Their signature is the shinjiro, a super-duper rich pork broth topped with tones of cabbage and beansprouts (that I only eat stir fried with salted fish). A must try! <br /><br />(3) Baikohken<br />Stumbled on this little place one evening after being hounded by the touts along Boat Quay. I'd be really cheesed off if I were a tourist. No wonder they rather go to Clarke Quay! BQ is losing its luster.Like Menya, this is a ramen joint.<br /><br />The 2 cheerful Japanese 'boys' running the store is a unique sight in Singapore. The eatery is a branch of a family run (presumably since I don't read Japanese) Hokkaido noodle shop. Since it was rather full that night, we got to sit at the counter and watch the noodle maestros at work. Free flow water or iced green tea at the counter. <br /><br />Again, we tried gyoza. Slightly different from Menya's but liked it anyhow. They had this cute contraption which looked like a waffle iron they they used to cook the gyoza. The noodles - I had a cold noodle bowl, which is real refreshing on a warm evening. Draks had the soup and he was relishing every bit of it. We missed the fresh chopped garlic that comes with Menya's shinjiro though. Baikohken serves it with a freeze-dried Masters garlic. <br /><br />Prices for all three noodle shops are reasonable for the quality. Expect to pay about $10 - $14 per bowl of noodle. My next mission is to hunt down Ken's Noodle House, which many bloggers say is the best.Sonicstarbursthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16511376757802854118noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36165609.post-49856616174024169302008-01-11T19:31:00.000+08:002008-01-11T19:44:39.815+08:00LandslideHilary Clinton beats Barrack Obama in the New Hampshire primaries - landslide on the way? Ladies in front of me talking at the top of their voices, giving me a migraine. I was looking forward to the Toddycats meeting later but my cold hasn't gone away since Xmas eve and well, we have this policy of staying away if we are ill. Rightly so since I don't want to spread my germs.<br /><br />It's rainy - doesn't help one who is already in a melancholic mood. Today, the inevitable happened. I went in to see my attorney and signed the writ. It stirred up dormant feelings that I had locked away since June 2002. It has opened up uncertainty, of which is homelessness. I have to start hunting for a new place and with my finances tied up in my current home, oh boy, I am not in a happy place. Given the crazy prices of property now, I am stuck. Everyone says I have to get rid of my furballs. How can I? It's cruel and I do not want to add on to the population of unwanted animals in Singapore. <br /><br />I am feeling numb now, yet a myriad of emotions are coursing through me. Adds to the feeling of rejection I have been feeling since I was informed via email that MINDEF is turning down my job application. Lest I break down in public, I will not elaborate further. The lyrics of the old Stevie Nicks/Fleetwood Mac song says it all.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">LANDSLIDE</span><br /><br />I took my love and I took it down<br />I climbed a mountain and I turned around<br />And I saw my reflection in the snow covered hills<br />Well the landslide brought me down<br /><br />Oh, mirror in the sky<br />What is love<br />Can the child within my heart rise above<br />Can I sail thru the changing ocean tides<br />Can I handle the seasons of my life<br /><br />Well, I've been afraid of changing 'cause I built my life around you<br />But time makes you bolder<br />Children get older<br />I'm getting older too<br />Well...<br /><br />Well, I've been afraid of changing 'cause I built my life around you<br />But time makes you bolder<br />Children get older<br />I'm getting older, too<br />Well I'm getting older too<br /><br />So, take this love and take it down<br />Year and if you climb a mountain and ya turn around<br />And if you see my reflection in the snow-covered hills<br />Well the landslide brought me down<br />And if you see my reflection in the snow-covered hills<br />Well maybe<br />Well maybe<br />Well maybe the landslide will bring you downSonicstarbursthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16511376757802854118noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36165609.post-36730443618151280612008-01-06T17:48:00.000+08:002008-01-06T18:16:19.865+08:00The Darjeeling Limited<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcaHz7zJN_VwQmepBLw9C9oMNNutj6bvcbymAON78L3zb8NiXwlGXX9Ir4m3ooVXsZfCm8VfiE9-qqCWt1cTF_8Js26cwkrP-6CGxUlH7Oo2FSbjUTKc6GMT3k40Pe2nBlhUpn/s1600-h/Darjeeling_Limited_Poster.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcaHz7zJN_VwQmepBLw9C9oMNNutj6bvcbymAON78L3zb8NiXwlGXX9Ir4m3ooVXsZfCm8VfiE9-qqCWt1cTF_8Js26cwkrP-6CGxUlH7Oo2FSbjUTKc6GMT3k40Pe2nBlhUpn/s320/Darjeeling_Limited_Poster.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5152304338878443346" /></a><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYONE!</span><br /><br />A bit slow as usual...wouldn't be the NO.1 procrastinator otherwise.An old college mate from my WSU days commented via Facebook that my blog was full of angst. Shall try to be less angsty...only if my life sort off stops being so tumultuous. <br /><br />Finally convinced el-cheapo that we should go watch a movie yesterday. There's only one movie at the moment that I do feel like watching anyway.I sure did not regret it. I thoroughly enjoyed The Darjeeling Limited, as much as I do a cup of piping hot Darjeeling tea on a cold, monsoon afternoon. It was a comedy of sorts, yet it does not have the slapstick, crass humor of Borat or Naked Gun. To me, it was quite a poignant drama which examines the rather uneasy relationship of the 3 Whitman boys, as they set off on their 'spiritual journey' through India. I shan't give too much away.<br /><br />Loved Adrian Brody, the funky glasses and his cool suit. Something about those puppy dog eyes. Jason Schwartzman, co-writer who also plays the youngest Whitman (and is Francis Ford Coppola's nephew) reminds me so much of Ringo Starr. In fact, there's something Beatle-esque about the movie. Deliberate or otherwise, it was like watching the Beatles on their journey to India in the 60s.<br /><br />The colors of India and the mad cap adventures of the Whitman brothers really make this a movie that I would consider getting on DVD. Just like Monsoon Wedding. The other thing I have been hunting for is the original soundtrack to the movie. The campy early Bollywood type music - so reminiscent of the days when my mom spent Saturdays watching Hindi movies on RTM.<br /><br />Check out the web on http://www.foxsearchlight.com/thedarjeelinglimited.Reviews available on Rotten Tomatoes http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/darjeeling_limited.It may not be everyone's cup of tea (pardon the pun) but for me, there's something that I can relate to in the movie.Sonicstarbursthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16511376757802854118noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36165609.post-60870538664477103772007-12-31T05:21:00.000+08:002007-12-31T05:29:53.143+08:00Fin 2007It's my final post for 2007. Haven't been regular as a friend pointed out. Told you guys, I feel infinitely inferior about blogging as I haven't plucked up the courage to take more pictures. Well, I haven't had time to work on learning more about the DSLRs that I have access to. Till now, photography is a feeling and an artistic venture for me. Besides, no one reads my blogs anyway, though I must add, I am NOT writing to be famous or controversial.<br /><br />My year in review? The nightmare began when my daddy passed away last December and it's been a nightmare since. 2007 wasn't a tragic year compared to 2001 or 2002 but it had its moments of 'EEEK', which I have not recovered from. One of which was the flexi fiasco which in my usual way where my career is concerned, I MESSED UP BIG TIME! <br /><br />Finance wise - PLEASE donate generously to the SAVE STELLA FUND! Though Draks pointed out that I am doing ok considering I am living on minimum wage and only dipped 30% into my pathetic savings. Yah, right. I am bordering on insanity and poverty all the time.<br /><br />Expectations and resolutions for 2008? NONE....Except I just hope my life gets better or improves even by the mere inch. Really.<br /><br />HAPPY NEW YEAR Y'ALL...See you in 2008 and let me know if you have any jobs, freelance or otherwise for the Compulsive Manic.Sonicstarbursthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16511376757802854118noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36165609.post-41039406323457961202007-11-19T14:15:00.000+08:002007-11-19T14:32:15.946+08:00What I've been up to since my last post...Actually, I really haven't been up to much but I do wonder where my time goes to. I am job hunting now so got any 'lobangs' do drop me an email or sms. Most of you know I've taken a sabbatical from 'a proper job' since September last year. One of the things I have been doing is part-timing on a full hour basis at my friend Rashmi's boutique Pure Earth at Holland Village and Tanglin Mall. She showed her first runway collection at The Designers Showcase at this year's SFW and I was busy with the preparations for it. Then I moved on to another project at the label.<br /><br />Essentially, I've been in retail since end May this year...I was juggling flexi adjunct teaching and Pure Earth. It was tough coz both demanded my attention. Something had to give so I gave up flexi adjunct teaching. Besides, the school was kind of far and don;t think they were happy with my frequent absences...no choice, this year has been eventful for me. There goes my professional credibility and I hope I won't be penalised for it.<br /><br />Next reason why I haven't been blogging is that I caught the Facebook bug. Amazing how many people have found me or been found by me since I started. Of course, there are some who are refusing to respond to my friend requests. I know who you are, I won't forget this rejection!I am kidding...I think? Facebook, like anything else on the Web, is a two-edged sword. Vampires and Slayers are irritating me but the thought of meeting someone from high school or kindergarten, after decades of non-contact is heartwarming. To be able to hook up with one's loved ones around the globe is the best bonus of all! Just like how this blog helped me through the dark days of dad's hospitalization to update my cousins overseas, it has made the distance between me and my friends and family seem small. Sometimes, we become slave to technology and forget the heart beneath it all. Don't you agree?Sonicstarbursthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16511376757802854118noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36165609.post-90642421615484916222007-09-10T14:39:00.000+08:002007-10-29T00:47:42.772+08:00Sunset ReviewPictures to follow - has been raining!<br /><br />Since its soft launch, I have covered 3 outlets in the revamped Sunset Way. Technically it's two as Absolutely New Zealand does not serve food, just coffee and cakes. I have fallen in love with the deli products at the store. 2 rounds of Prime Steer tenderloin have been cooked and digested, tried 2 types of dips and spreads. Glad to declare that the merchandise is a winner. You have to try the onion marmalade - great on steak as well as a spread for sandwiches. <br />(Fast forward: 29 Oct: They now serve NEW ZEALAND Natural Ice Cream! HOKEY POKEY ICE CREAM YAY!)<br /><br />Now to the food - we tried Cafe D'Orient, the Hong Kong tai pai tong eatery and Grilled Out on 2 consecutive evenings. Cafe D'Orient has an extensive menu but I personally found the fried kway teow with pork which I had, a tad oily. Huge portion though. Draks tried the pork kidney porridge and declared that it was way too watery. Not in the least bit appetizing. I had already been disappointed when the item I ordered was not available. The service is so-so, nonetheless, when we returned the next night for Grilled Out, Cafe D'Orient was quiet packed.<br /><br />We tried Grilled Out as a last resort the next night. The buffet seemed to much, Megumi Japanese did not have space for 3 persons, the Thai place was packed too. Even for Grilled Out - we had to wait for some time before we got our table. Draks had the Yellow Tail, while I chose the Kurobuta pork collar - again to be told it was sold out! So I ended up with the Kurobuta pork patty, same as our friend. The meal came with complimentary bread and salad as starters. It was fun to watch people walking around, checking out the new eating places. We were told D's yellow tail would take 15 minutes but that turned out to be an eternity. After close to 45 minutes of waiting, watching people who came later finish their meals, we kicked up a gentle fuss. That was when they realised that the kitchen did not prepare our order. When we finally did get our patties, it was undercooked...so they took it back. In between that, came 3 complimentary glasses of red wine. Pity I am allergic to alcohol, though the occasional riesling, proseco or Moet is much appreciated. The patty had not thawed properly so they gave us the pork collar, which I had wanted in the first place. My friend's collar turned out to be a lil undercooked; to which the waiter said 'but kurobuta is supposed to be like that'. <br /><br />Finally the meal ended, with complimentary chocolate cake. I have to admit the service recovery was great. But until they iron out the hiccups, I won't be bakc there so soon.Sonicstarbursthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16511376757802854118noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36165609.post-39561384498640953702007-08-26T20:52:00.000+08:002007-08-26T21:16:15.343+08:00Don't let the SUNSET down on me<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/compulsivemanic/1236844618/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1075/1236844618_63247c917a_m.jpg" width="240" height="180" alt="Made - 26 Aug" /></a><br /><br />First - a pix of Made. The kittens are almost 2 months old and are a real handful. Still not quite potty trained yet so there are accidents to watch out for. They are really fun to watch now that they can scamper around. They have also invaded MJ's turf, which has resulted in the original Garfield moving back to being a blob on my bed. Wayan is fascinated with MJ's tail and has been swiped a few times by his irritated daddy. Wayan will grow up to be a real greedy pig - he was trying to dip his face into my hee pio soup during my dinner!<br /><br />Of course dinner came with a rather extravagant tenderloin. We bought a slab of prime steer tenderloin from New Zealand yesterday at a new deli that has opened up at the HDB estate on Sunset Way. The sleepy hollow is the newest foodie joint in the West. So critics who say the Westside lacks food, time to change your mind. Of course, Sunset was known for Chin Huat and its buffet steamboat since I was in junior college. That has since closed but their seafood restaurant remains. Other than that, the small HDB estate is better known for the vets and Balmoral Cake Shop. I had only just discovered Swiss-Link Bakery, another joint where I can get decent bacon and eggs for breakfast. They also do decent apple and shepherd's pies. They are sort of in between a 7-Eleven and a hairdresser.<br /><br />We knew Rocky's at Rail Mall had relocated to Block 106 Sunset Way. My friend Boon See used to have a branch of her clinic there. The whole stretch were dry markets that served the residents of this little sleepy hollow at the edge of Clementi.On my bus ride home on 75 the other day, noticed a huge billboard proclaiming the transformation of the block into a new dinning experience. I must say it looks promising. Besides Rocky's and Absolutely New Zealand, where I got my prime steer tenderloin (ooooh prime steer...hard to get), there are 6 other new eateries that have sprung up. HDB has built a wooden deck all around for al fresco dinning. Given that Sunset is not your typical huge HDB housing estate, it is nice. <br /><br />Been having home cooked dinners at home past few days so I haven't had the chance to try any of the restaurants. Have shopped at Absolutely New Zealand for frozen raspberries (for the cupcakes?), onion marmalade and sea salt. They also serve coffee take outs and some cakes. The proprietress was really friendly and we got to talking, me sharing about how excited I was to see that she stocked prime steer. Of course, she found out about Dad, Uncle Tat and Bun Bee. Ah, an old-timer who has heard of us. Made me miss the good ole days. The tenderloin was divine...after being lightly pan grilled with butter. <br /><br />I am definitely looking forward to trying the food at this new makan area. Watch this space for updates. Anyone want to go on a food jaunt with me?Sonicstarbursthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16511376757802854118noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36165609.post-63763909911075887522007-08-19T08:44:00.000+08:002007-08-19T09:16:22.884+08:00The Village UpdateNo pictures...again. Still 'shy' to whip out a camera and snap a pix.Well, I was at Holland V again yesterday; had to mind the shop. Can't wait until I am taken off the schedule so that my weekends can be free again. Did I post that I will be leaving part-time teaching at the end of term 3? 2 weeks to ORD lor! It is becoming very hard to juggle and with events happening at Pure Earth which needs my attention, it was no better time to go. It was a struggle for me as school really wore me down and I was frequently sick. Obviously the upper echelons weren't too happy; I totally know where they are coming from but I was also not a happy camper. Exactly a year to the day I left somewhere and begun flexi-adjunct teaching, I am entering a new phase again. Of unknowns an uncertainty. Anyone employing? Looking for decent, moral and legal employment.<br /><br />I digress. Just wanted to drop a line to say MARMALADE PANTRY is open! I will miss Cafe Rosso's fabulous creations but now I don't have to travel all the way to snooty Palais or crowded Taka to get my Limonata cupcakes! Still my all time fav cupcake. Remember, they had cupcakes before it became trendy!<br /><br />Weighed myself yesterday FINALLY. You see, kittens have claimed ownership of my weighing scale. My svelte waist line is gone. No more 50-something kg....gonna hit 70 kg if I don't do something soon! See, I am one gal who isn't shy about my weight or age.Oh well.<br /><br />I have been hanging out at Bunalun<a href="http://www.bunalun.com.sg"></a>, over at Jalan Merah Saga, Chip Bee, lately. Every other day almost. I nip in for a quite cup of flat white and sit there to think for Pure Earth marketing and promotions. Love the muesli for breakfast and the Asian Blini I had for lunch yesterday was divine. It is known for its organic stuff and though pric es always make Draks baulk and do a double take, I am starting to appreciate the fact that organic does taste better. The tutti frutti jelly beans at $4.50 per 100gm are refreshing and addictive. I am sold on Bunalun - if not anything for the peace and solitude it offers when you just need to think.<br /><br />Other updates - Paris Silk has a new second outlet, it stands on the unit that was the former 4-D shop that became was Music Junction CD shop. The Bead shop has moved out. Where the chi-chi furniture shop used to be, at the corner near the staircase to Cold Storage, 2AM Dessert Bar looks to be opening. Provence is extremely crowded - I mourn the loss of a relaxed, comfort zone. Ya Kun has a new product - a breadstick with dip option; chocolate or cheese. Yummy. $3.50 per set. Hope they add this to the permanent menu.<br /><br />HHHMMM...a Sunday where I am not running the shop. Maybe I should hit Dempsey Hill!Sonicstarbursthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16511376757802854118noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36165609.post-16557452098724136252007-08-12T09:12:00.000+08:002007-08-12T09:35:00.638+08:00Next ChangeChange is a given. Ironically, it is also the only constant in my life and maybe everyone else's.I was someone's daughter, now I am an orphan. I was a student, now I am a somewhat teacher. Places and faces change in my life and keeps evolving, spinning. Only I seem not to change. A godsister told me I shouldn't try to change the people around me but change myself instead. An old friend told me that catching up with me was always a good thing coz I'm still young at heart. Hehe, well my salary is still in the category of a fresh graduate while my friends have reallyh moved up the corporate ladder. Soon another change will come in my life but it isn't a change that I didn't anticipate - it's a change that SHOULD have come sooner.<br /><br />This may not have anything remotely related to my blurb above but it was the trigger that got me thinking about change the whole night. Holland Village, as anyone who knows me would know, is like a second home for me. My first lantern during Mid-Autumn Festival came from the old provision shops that front Holland Avenue. Dad and mom use to take me to Block 40 Holland Drive, the red brick building for satay. My first date with the ex was at Holland Village, as was my first taste of skipping school for pancakes at Better Batter, when Chip Bee was not the hip and happening place it is now. <br /><br />30 some years on, I still get my lanterns at the one lone old style shop on the strip, I shop at the Chip Bee shops. Even more so, it's the place I spend one day a week working. Nothing remains static at the Hive (what Draks calls the place), ever evolving and changing.Yesterday, I realised one of my favorite stores, Anthropology is empty,not sure if they are renovating or moved out for good. Another favorite hangout, Provence is suddenly full of people, after it was featured in the papers. And I hope I'm not the last to know as usual. Marmalade Pantry, one of my favorite eateries; though a tad pretentious some of my friends say, will be opening a new outlet. It's taken over the spot vacated by Cafe Rosso, which used to be Chaplins and before that Java Jive. Though I bake my own cupcakes when I have the time, the Pantry's cupcakes are still my favorites, especially the Limonata. Probably coz frosting and icings are something I am trying to master. So the Hive's uber-cool quotient has gone up a notch, rentals will surely hit the roof now. Hey but at least I will be well-fed.Sonicstarbursthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16511376757802854118noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36165609.post-27401562081388890452007-08-03T12:29:00.000+08:002007-08-03T12:35:25.570+08:00The Manic is backBeen caught up with many things, hence the lack of energy to update my blog. I am currently caught up in another maelstrom, which never seems to leave completely. Maybe I need to go consult a fengshui man or do some reiki or as my gastric surgeon's nurse says, just go back to church. My comfort comes now from the 2 little guys...it's incredible how they have grown...tomorrow they will be a month old. They have started walking and all. Let the pix do the talking.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghojSYqeRbE6OW64Kfz2cP39NQGy4wTQ6b4SwLLK3xKY7nT7DMeOD5Oycrilncg_XUvmsTwjmgWnRdgvDfi4oZdVC9Zqx7HjPUVmN8La-zcmpZPUOObTrc_xg-GAtwwyWRj0xK/s1600-h/968870199_3beadd231b_m.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghojSYqeRbE6OW64Kfz2cP39NQGy4wTQ6b4SwLLK3xKY7nT7DMeOD5Oycrilncg_XUvmsTwjmgWnRdgvDfi4oZdVC9Zqx7HjPUVmN8La-zcmpZPUOObTrc_xg-GAtwwyWRj0xK/s320/968870199_3beadd231b_m.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5094327857505777634" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyhunxIiAGr8JSvrmu8P-Y1e9amCuPhfYJsFgiJsOvATetZM9fNurYmHRC5uXz-U8xmxFi8RSl4DOecGZkTTagUa6FDpk93dNTOY_A6OOI0Q9uGbakiXv-xz1vVwK2yPCOwkSG/s1600-h/876085438_9bbdeb90c5_m.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyhunxIiAGr8JSvrmu8P-Y1e9amCuPhfYJsFgiJsOvATetZM9fNurYmHRC5uXz-U8xmxFi8RSl4DOecGZkTTagUa6FDpk93dNTOY_A6OOI0Q9uGbakiXv-xz1vVwK2yPCOwkSG/s320/876085438_9bbdeb90c5_m.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5094327857505777650" /></a><br /><br />Once I figure out the video mode on my Samsung HP, I'll catch them in action. Wayan hasn't taken to poor Sonic well though. He has a delayed reaction; hissing at us a good few minutes later after an 'encounter' with Nic.Sonicstarbursthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16511376757802854118noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36165609.post-89590908731875622742007-07-23T20:41:00.000+08:002007-07-23T20:54:34.344+08:00Kawaii KittensMy 'grandsons' are 19 days old. Must plan the red eggs and cupcakes for their 'Man Yue' celebrations. Don't worry, I don't use my mom's old weighing scale, which I weigh them in to measure the ingredients. It was a surprise to find that Wayan, who looks smaller is only 5gm lighter than the fat boy. Wayan is now 16cm while the fat boy is 18cm and weighs in at 18cm. He just has a big and fluffy posterior. I have to be careful since I have some of my students reading my blog.This is what happens when you forget and put your blog URL as your MSN nick.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/compulsivemanic/875236855/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1280/875236855_9532071eb4_m.jpg" width="240" height="180" alt="Wayan & Made - 23 July" /></a><br /><br />The cute ratio has officially started. They are soft, fluffy and responsive now that the eyes are open. Made is starting to get himself into trouble; got himself stuck under my CPU trolley. Aiyoh. Wayan will be the SNAK (sensitive,new age kitten); he sat next to me when I was bawling my eyes out last night over my frustrations and stuff. Either ways, them little kitty-kats are really cute. <br /><br />Finally, a note to my students, past and present, if you happen to be reading my blog.<br /><br />Please DO NOT write or spell like I do in my blog, EVER, in your English or Combined Humanities essays.Sonicstarbursthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16511376757802854118noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36165609.post-37321506669888313612007-07-22T17:35:00.000+08:002007-07-22T20:43:13.778+08:00FrustratedI am having a particularly bad day. My back has been bothering since yesterday and the stomach has been bugging me for 3 weeks. My surgeon says no biggy but if it isn't any biggy,why do I feel so icky and extremely bloated and obese?<br /><br />First, I had to deal with a couple of difficult customers today. Though they were not rude, they did not make my job any easier at all. Please don't give me the excuse that I chose retail for this reincarnation of my sorry existence. It doesn't give anyone else any excuse to be rude to anyone, even if the customer is king. Neither does it give any sales person an excuse to treat a customer poorly. It's a vicious cycle I tell you! <br /><br />Next, I feel so harassed by the obligations piled onto me by a certain few family members of sorts, whose names or designation in my family I shall not divulge. In a bit, I feel I have been taken for granted, my feelings ignored and really been treated like *&$#@! Even though I am a fairly independent person who could probably move to some remote island and be a hermit (which I have done), it doesn't mean I aM a doormat. Neither does it mean that you raise your voice at me and turn the tables around and make me feel REAL bad. When it wasn't my fault to begin with. <br /><br />So I shall just turn my cell phone off for the next couple of days and go into hiding. Or at least to these people, until they get it through their thick craniums that I am not particularly pleased by how I am being taken for granted. GGGGGGGGRRRRR!!!!Sonicstarbursthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16511376757802854118noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36165609.post-20132991370975708222007-07-21T18:52:00.000+08:002007-07-22T20:42:54.829+08:00Pasir Panjang Heritage Trail - 21 JulyThough it's been a year since I left my old job in heritage, I do miss most elements of my past life. I must say one of the best rewards from that job were getting to know the gang at the Raffles Museum of Biodiversity Research, NUS, as well as the many colleagues at my old establishment; hence the earlier post before this one.<br /><br />After 2 missed attempts as a Pasir Panjang Heritage Guide in Feb and May, I FINALLY got my chance to guide this morning. Had to miss Feb walk coz someone had that complication from the operation and May, I had that nasty flu. I have to admit, I had the shakes last night as I could not keep awake after a long day at school and SAM and dozed off while revising my notes. In excitement, I got up at 5am and dozed off, waking up at 7:10AM (horror, horror...sure kena scolding by Otterman later for my tardiness. No breakfast, a quick shower and off to RMBR, NUS. A chirpy Oi Yee greeted me and jump started my batteries.I had to skip Spinelli's, my usual stop before I head to RMBR and guide the walk on an empty tummy. Met Ruo Yu, RMBR's interns and 2 student volunteers from NUS High. The group was way smaller this year - less than 20 participants and as usual started a little off 8am to wait for the lost sheep. <br /><br />After the session of RMBR's Public Gallery, the lucky participants were treated to freshly brewed Spinelli's coffee. And then we set off, cutting through the back of the Science and Medical faculties to head up the Ridge. This was a steep climb and I must admit I was huffing a little at the top, though I had to act gung-ho and garang to encourage the participants. A few more of such climbs and I can get back to my lithe self in no time. Glad to have Oi Yee and Wendy as the main nature guides as Oi Yee especially is a treasure trove of information for a non-sciencesy person like me.<br /><br />It was a nice day, not too hot or humid. It was also my first time doing the walk from Science Park. Past 2 years, I picked the participants up from Harbourfront and spent the trails running around as photographer, logistics, runner or what the army calls lobo. But almost as usual, Wendy and I heard the distant rumble of thunder at the start of the pond and we prompted Oi Yee to hasten the pace. Of course, we did not speed things up too much that participants missed out anything. Luckily we did, coz once we got to the top of the hill, the rain hit. At first it was gentle drizzles and then it poured. Big time. We sought shelter at our usual contingency point, the toilets on the lower lookout point. That's where we carried on our commentaries. Think we picked up some curious members of the public who had just come out of the gents too! Thank goodness, the wind blew the clouds southwards towards the Western Anchorage so we didn't have to wait too long. <br /><br />The participants were pleasant and the beauty of smaller groups is that we got to interact with them. Of course, teacher that I am, I couldn't resist ticking off the names on the list Eileen had emailed us. I find that helps me get to know the names of the participants; it always works well if we know their names. That personal touch is so important when we work in such settings. Kiah Shen, who was extremely dry I might add, had caught up with us by the time we hit the Tembusu Grove. We made it to Canopy Walk and then ushered them quickly to Reflections at Bukit Chandu. It was threatening to rain again.<br /><br />Of course, it was like deja vu to stand on the porch and greet everyone. This time it got cut short as Salim announced that he had walk-in visitors waiting for the Sounds of Battle to start. Could not say our good byes as we had planned then so we hung around for the 15 minutes that it took for Sounds to be over. Then Wendy and I went up to tell the folks bye and how to get out of RBC. We left after that for a well-deserved meal at Holland Drive. <br /><br />So how did it go? Well, I miss having to take photos but at least I have broken the jinx of not being able to guide the PP Heritage Trail. Like any other skill I've picked up along the way, guiding also takes practice and I must not lay off it for too long.<br /><br />Don't know if I should 'advertise' it but if you haven't had the chance to check out Pasir Panjang the way I have in the past 3 years, do join my kakis for next Saturday's trail. I won't be guiding; I am emcee at 2 back-to-back culture 101 talks but you'll be in good hands with my kawans. Click on Otterman speaks link on this blog for more info.Sonicstarbursthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16511376757802854118noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36165609.post-13541541947686018272007-07-21T18:14:00.000+08:002007-07-21T18:51:48.813+08:00Singapore Heritage Festival - Culture 101 TalksI am barely awake...I have had a long week and over active small intestines. So while I take a break from thinking up wild marketing schemes for the PURE EARTH label and minding the menswear outlet (sorry Rashmi if you happen to be reading this!), I thought I may as well blog about what I'm up to. Anyway, if I don't I may fall asleep by the time I get home AND forget what I want to say. Heheh. <br /><br />Draks has taken his aunt and 2 cute cousins from the USA for ramen at Miharu at the Gallery Hotel. I have to miss this treat as I am running the shop today and the whole of tomorrow. Miharu...I could just wax lyrical over the noodles there. Anyway, I better not harp about it coz I hear my tummy rumbling.<br /><br />I spent yesterday evening being emcee and moderator for the Culture 101 talks on Art Appreciation at the Singapore Art Museum. Why do I always end up being emcee? It's the first of the few sessions that I have asked to help out at. These talks are held as part of the National Heritage Board's annual Singapore Heritage Festival. My old friends at NHB's Public Education Division had asked for help and I could not refuse them. For more details, check out http://heritagefest.org.sg/2007/official/index.php.<br /><br />Yesterday's talk was by Low Sze Wee, Assistant Director (Collections) and he gave an introduction to Southeast Asian Art. I did fine and visual art modules during my freshmen year at UWA and as a history major, can appreciate even more what he lectured about last night. I almost thought of architecture as a major back then. Would have made more dough than in my impoverished life now if I had. The crowd was pretty good, almost a hundred people. Some had followed their friends and significant other but the majority had come due to their interest in arts and heritage. A promising sign I must say. I may have left a certain establishment but it doesn't mean I have given up in heritage promotion. Dad instilled that passion in me. Of course, there were some familiar faces on the crowd, people I often see at other heritage events. Oh and I even got a compliment on the latest PURE EARTH dress that came in our last shipment from India. Hope the persons comes in to peruse our wears! (pardon the pun!)<br /><br />There's a whole lot more of the festival so I do hope everyone will pop by the website and find something to do. You know, we whine all the time and say that Singapore is helluva boring place to live in. But there's actually heaps going on ALL THE TIME...there's many things I am keen on but can't do because it clashes with work or no one wants to go with me. Let's see Sheila Majid concert, Jacky Cheung and Grasshoppers concert, ballroom dancing, batik class......<br /><br />Will post some links in a later post.Sonicstarbursthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16511376757802854118noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36165609.post-72425000240934191302007-07-19T22:57:00.000+08:002007-07-19T23:02:27.085+08:00More tales from the kittsCame home to a major feud between MJ and Halia. Poor MJ got fixed this morning and though the vet says he recovered from the surgery this morning very quickly and well, he came home to a really rude shock. Halia attacked him BIG TIME and has been hissing at him. Wonder if its coz she thinks there's a new female cat who is threatening to take her babies away? He's probably lost his masculine scent after the operation. Poor things but we had to do the responsible thing before we end up being a cattery.'<br /><br />Anyway, the kitts have opened their eyes more and we have updated my flickr with the pix. Non-cat lovers, you'll have to put up with the kitty updates for a while longer.Sonicstarbursthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16511376757802854118noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36165609.post-67235041961963259962007-07-17T07:07:00.000+08:002007-07-17T07:10:48.570+08:00With eyes wide open -sort of<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/compulsivemanic/829459304/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1001/829459304_b495f5a0e4_m.jpg" width="180" height="240" alt="Wayan - 16 July" /></a><br /><br />As promised...a picture of Woodchuck Wayan! Eyes slowly opening. He can follow our finger movements. Made, the lazy bones has only one eye looking like it's ready to open. Check my Flickr for more Wayan pix.Sonicstarbursthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16511376757802854118noreply@blogger.com0