Just picked up our rental car from Burswood Car Rentals and I've left with a sour taste in my mouth. My advise, don't ever give them your business again. There was an old man, could be the manager or owner, who was most sarcastic and off putting when I asked if we could changed to a cleaner car. The car was dusty and the windscreen was spotted, AND there was a 1 inch crack (we only saw that after we drove off) in the middle. Well, too bad if your cleaner is off sick, you can't just rent out a dirty car, and by saying in a sarcastic tone that you'll give us a $11 credit to get it wash or giving it a swipe with your cloth did not help the matter, you stupid, sarcastic, dogmatic, mean, bald, arrogant frekin' bastard!
I just got the number for the Consumer Protection Hotline and I'm gonna ask if that is a violation. Argh! I really hate being bullied. I knew if I took up the issue, like quarrel coz that was the only way to go with his sarcasm and all, there would be a major row as Lee Ling was there. She would get all snooty and sarcastic and mean and that would have ruined everyone's day. I don't know why I bother at all, coz the day feels ruined anyway. Maybe we should just upgrade to a better car. I don't know. Send the car back and risk a confrontation with that horrible man? Lee Hoon thinks that it is the same car we had last year except that it has been repainted as it probably was in an accident or something, and that it why the price is cheaper. Should we change cars? We don't care about price, just about how comfy it'll be for Lee Hoon to drive it. I certainly don't mind upgrading to a Pulsar and it looks cleaner too. I'm sooo agitated and mad now. This is not a holiday, this is stupid. Not to mention the fact that Lee Ling is complaining that the seats aren't comfy (hint: I was to sit in front??) I have no problem changing seats - she'll have to navigate and NOT sleep at all as she will need to help Lee Hoon.
Other than today, my holiday's been good and fun. Staying with Kim was fun too and I got to play with Max. This stupid blurp is marring it and I hate it. Anyway, I'm off to Margaret River tomorrow. Will need to drop off some luggage with Kim and the car won't be able to fit all of them. So many things to get done too. First and foremost, try to get over this stupid. But then there is the foregone conclusion that we will NEVER go back to that horrible car rental place again. Maybe some people do not view it as rude, but we do.
Hopefully there won't be anymore stupids like today's. Rented a cottage along Carters Road, with all the winter trimmings. It should be good. No more stupids, please.
Monday, August 25, 2003
Thursday, August 21, 2003
Good one, Shazza, good one.
Today's weather was especially windy and wet. The rain came up with the sun and it was gloomy and very, very cold. Brrr... Decided to sleep in, so I literally took a rain check with James. Was supposed to meet James in uni for hot chocolate and some footy lessons. I was so excited when he offered to teach me how to 'kick the footy' but then the rain sorta put a damper on rain, didn't it? Bah. Kim and I were suppose to meet Basem for lunch but postponed that too. He is coming over tomorrow for dinner instead. Anyway, we had this ravenous craving for hot soup that we braved the weather and hied ourselves over to Coles and bought 'a few things'. Oh oh oh, we made scones too to go with the bean soup. Ohhhmiawd, it was so good. The moment it came out of the oven, we buttered it liberally and wolfed it down in 10 minutes flat. We had to make another batch to go with the hot soup. Kim had hers with butter and jam; I had mine with butter and vegemite. Blissful... *sigh* Apparently I must be a true Australian if I like Vegemite, and ironically Vegemite isn't made in Australia at all, it being Kraft and all.
Later I did have that hot chocolate with James. He fetched me from Kim's, and we went to Carousel. It was great catching up with him face to face. Well, almost great. I felt awkward for some reason. And I did put my stupid big feet in my mouth once and I felt horrible, I still feel horrible. I asked him why does he limp (I know personal question! But I figure we were friends enough for me to ask... dumbass...) and he said, "What? I limp?" Ohh my major gawd... sigh... good one Sharon. It is just that he walks different – offbeat. I only asked coz I thought he was in an accident or something. There are many times in my life that I wished I were never born, and this is one of them. My cheeks were so red afterwards, but he was all nice and good and said it was okay. It was not okay. Note to self: Don't ask personal questions ever.
Good one Shazza, good one... arrrrghhh!
Later I did have that hot chocolate with James. He fetched me from Kim's, and we went to Carousel. It was great catching up with him face to face. Well, almost great. I felt awkward for some reason. And I did put my stupid big feet in my mouth once and I felt horrible, I still feel horrible. I asked him why does he limp (I know personal question! But I figure we were friends enough for me to ask... dumbass...) and he said, "What? I limp?" Ohh my major gawd... sigh... good one Sharon. It is just that he walks different – offbeat. I only asked coz I thought he was in an accident or something. There are many times in my life that I wished I were never born, and this is one of them. My cheeks were so red afterwards, but he was all nice and good and said it was okay. It was not okay. Note to self: Don't ask personal questions ever.
Good one Shazza, good one... arrrrghhh!
Wednesday, August 20, 2003
Nice, cold blessed weather...
Kim's been teaching me how to play a guitar and I've found that I'm not any good coz I've got short fingers. If I have to press any more than three places, I'm totally useless. I'm not a total guitar virgin as I have held one before - my dad's - and even strummed a few 'noise' now and then, and yet even with proper teaching, I'm a lost case. I wonder how people with short fingers manage; they must have the most flexible fingers in the world to be able to contort their digits into such unnatural angles. I console myself with the fact that I am not totally musically challenged since I can play a bit of tunes on the piano. *grin*
We went to the city today, and did a spot of shopping. There is a Cotton On sale going on at the moment at unbelievable low prices - I'm talking single digits and double digits that will not even burn a tiny hole in your pocket. But I didn't go crazy if that's what you are thinking with my above excuse and all. I resigned myself to two items which cost $20, which I think is a bargain, as the normal price would have carried that number way, way over my meagre budget.
Anyway, we wanted to have yummy lunch at Mr. Samurai but it was, as usual, packed to the eyebrows. No biggie, only coz I've been dreaming about it for a year! Oh well, we were certainly not gonna squeeze into that overdressed crowd. I find it funny that office yuppies always flocked to that place when it is mainly a students' hangout eatery. I guess it is because it is so cheap. And the fact that it is so yummy helps heaps. ^_^ We are going to go back again on Friday, and try our luck. Hee hee…
Then we came back and walked Max. By gosh, he is one powerful canine! He almost yanked my arm out of its socket. He gets very excited when he is allowed to go out to the park, and with other dogs around he goes crazily excited. But he is not very well behaved when he is outside as every thing distracts him, and it is hard for Kim to control him. Kim wanted to let him run loose but there were other dogs there and there were all small and fragile lap dogs - one tumble from Max and they are likely to break something like a bone or their spirit. Kim is considering enrolling him in Behaviour School.
It's been a good day. We just had a heart-to-heart chat and belly-aching laugh session in front of the heater (it's soooo cold and my nose is all stuffed up and all nasally... mainly due to my reaction to Max's fur) and it seems like old times. Seriously, it seems like I never left, like the one-year gap never happened and when I came back, the ends just came together seamlessly. It's weird. But 'tis good. I guess it is because we are so comfortable with each other. We can basically be our true selves in front of each other. She is definitely a friend for life.
The weather hasn't been behaving itself lately. Apparently, I brought the bad weather with me from Malaysia. It started raining when my plane landed and we got drenched with cold stinging fat droplets when we ran to the car with my luggage. I looked like a lumbering idiot (I was carrying my huge hard shell case whereas Kim had my gym bag. =))
Anyway, it is COLD, and I've missed this so much. Sweet, blessed cold. =P Well, it is a godsend with the heat we've been suffering in Malaysia. Oi, I don't have air-con ok... and I sleep on the floor, and heat sinks whereas cold ascends. Haha... lame... *grin*
We went to the city today, and did a spot of shopping. There is a Cotton On sale going on at the moment at unbelievable low prices - I'm talking single digits and double digits that will not even burn a tiny hole in your pocket. But I didn't go crazy if that's what you are thinking with my above excuse and all. I resigned myself to two items which cost $20, which I think is a bargain, as the normal price would have carried that number way, way over my meagre budget.
Anyway, we wanted to have yummy lunch at Mr. Samurai but it was, as usual, packed to the eyebrows. No biggie, only coz I've been dreaming about it for a year! Oh well, we were certainly not gonna squeeze into that overdressed crowd. I find it funny that office yuppies always flocked to that place when it is mainly a students' hangout eatery. I guess it is because it is so cheap. And the fact that it is so yummy helps heaps. ^_^ We are going to go back again on Friday, and try our luck. Hee hee…
Then we came back and walked Max. By gosh, he is one powerful canine! He almost yanked my arm out of its socket. He gets very excited when he is allowed to go out to the park, and with other dogs around he goes crazily excited. But he is not very well behaved when he is outside as every thing distracts him, and it is hard for Kim to control him. Kim wanted to let him run loose but there were other dogs there and there were all small and fragile lap dogs - one tumble from Max and they are likely to break something like a bone or their spirit. Kim is considering enrolling him in Behaviour School.
It's been a good day. We just had a heart-to-heart chat and belly-aching laugh session in front of the heater (it's soooo cold and my nose is all stuffed up and all nasally... mainly due to my reaction to Max's fur) and it seems like old times. Seriously, it seems like I never left, like the one-year gap never happened and when I came back, the ends just came together seamlessly. It's weird. But 'tis good. I guess it is because we are so comfortable with each other. We can basically be our true selves in front of each other. She is definitely a friend for life.
The weather hasn't been behaving itself lately. Apparently, I brought the bad weather with me from Malaysia. It started raining when my plane landed and we got drenched with cold stinging fat droplets when we ran to the car with my luggage. I looked like a lumbering idiot (I was carrying my huge hard shell case whereas Kim had my gym bag. =))
Anyway, it is COLD, and I've missed this so much. Sweet, blessed cold. =P Well, it is a godsend with the heat we've been suffering in Malaysia. Oi, I don't have air-con ok... and I sleep on the floor, and heat sinks whereas cold ascends. Haha... lame... *grin*
Tuesday, August 19, 2003
I am here!!! Wheee!
Well, here I am in Perth, staying with Kim in her new place on Kent Street. Just had dinner - lamb (of course) and, cauliflower and cheese, and corn on the cob. Yummy... and lemon meringue pie for desert. That hit the final spot.
The flight was smooth and quite comfy as I got two seats all to meself. The aussie guy migrated to a row of seats behind - I saw him vegged out on them later. Then this big malay guy came and sat in it before takeoff. Two of us were big so it was sorta a squeeze. But he moved back to his own seat later, no idea why. Maybe he thought it'd be less turbulent up front - row 15. Anyway, did the usual customs thing, declared my Clarinase and Ventolin puffer, just in case coz they are pretty stringent these days. One guy in front of me got his entire luggage turned inside out.
Kim picked me up and we came back to the house and went out again to get groceries. I met Max. I love Max. And I'm gonna miss Max. He is just so adorable, and he is HUGE! Bigger than a german sheppard, in between the size of that and a great dane. But he's so cuddly and lovable, and loves jumping up onto the couch to snuggle in, and emitting a little growl of satisfaction every time he does it. Haha... and also he loves chewing on the large throw pillows and when Kim scolds him for it, he either takes it and throw it on the floor, OR hump it.... Yeap, you read right. *grin* I've seen it with my own eyes. I can tell that he is very intelligent - always attentive and very responsive. I love big dogs. ^_^
Wish I can write more but Kim's waiting to use her laptop. So it's just a fast update. Here, Kim... say hi.
uh...hi
:)
im sorry but i dont even know who you guys? are and sharon just kind of stuck me on here...
dont mean to be rude
so hello :)
Well, people that's Kimberley. =p she's a hoot. She's dancing in the background now to my dance CDs. Interesting moves too.... sorta like the 70's Show rerun. Hee hee...
Anyway, later. But so much to tell you all! ^_^
The flight was smooth and quite comfy as I got two seats all to meself. The aussie guy migrated to a row of seats behind - I saw him vegged out on them later. Then this big malay guy came and sat in it before takeoff. Two of us were big so it was sorta a squeeze. But he moved back to his own seat later, no idea why. Maybe he thought it'd be less turbulent up front - row 15. Anyway, did the usual customs thing, declared my Clarinase and Ventolin puffer, just in case coz they are pretty stringent these days. One guy in front of me got his entire luggage turned inside out.
Kim picked me up and we came back to the house and went out again to get groceries. I met Max. I love Max. And I'm gonna miss Max. He is just so adorable, and he is HUGE! Bigger than a german sheppard, in between the size of that and a great dane. But he's so cuddly and lovable, and loves jumping up onto the couch to snuggle in, and emitting a little growl of satisfaction every time he does it. Haha... and also he loves chewing on the large throw pillows and when Kim scolds him for it, he either takes it and throw it on the floor, OR hump it.... Yeap, you read right. *grin* I've seen it with my own eyes. I can tell that he is very intelligent - always attentive and very responsive. I love big dogs. ^_^
Wish I can write more but Kim's waiting to use her laptop. So it's just a fast update. Here, Kim... say hi.
uh...hi
:)
im sorry but i dont even know who you guys? are and sharon just kind of stuck me on here...
dont mean to be rude
so hello :)
Well, people that's Kimberley. =p she's a hoot. She's dancing in the background now to my dance CDs. Interesting moves too.... sorta like the 70's Show rerun. Hee hee...
Anyway, later. But so much to tell you all! ^_^
Monday, August 18, 2003
All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go...
I'm leeeeaving on a jet plane, do(n't) know when I'll be back again.... leeeaving on a jet plane.... la la la la....
Hee hee, all packed and ready to take what will probably be my last vacation in a looong time. After this, I hope to get a proper job very soon. Being jobless and a charity case is most unbecoming. Bah.
This time I'm going with a slightly smaller shell case bag, with lots of space so that I can bring back more stuff. Since I'm sharing my bag with Lee Hoon, I know she'll be buying lots of work clothes. (Wei Yong probably rolling his eyes again. He seems to be the only chiding me for shopping. Well, I'm rolling my eyes back at you then. =P) But I think my account should be safer this time since it's low enough to give me pause. Nothing is worse that window shopping on an empty bank account. *shudder*
Anyway, see you peeps in Perth!
Hee hee, all packed and ready to take what will probably be my last vacation in a looong time. After this, I hope to get a proper job very soon. Being jobless and a charity case is most unbecoming. Bah.
This time I'm going with a slightly smaller shell case bag, with lots of space so that I can bring back more stuff. Since I'm sharing my bag with Lee Hoon, I know she'll be buying lots of work clothes. (Wei Yong probably rolling his eyes again. He seems to be the only chiding me for shopping. Well, I'm rolling my eyes back at you then. =P) But I think my account should be safer this time since it's low enough to give me pause. Nothing is worse that window shopping on an empty bank account. *shudder*
Anyway, see you peeps in Perth!
FHM - Fevervently Hoping it'll be Me, soon...
I just had a chat with Mr Looi Miin Wei, editor extraordinaire of FHM Malaysia. Wonder if the extra 'i' in his name denotes something extra 'interesting' about him. ^_^ He is only 30, good looking, down-to-earth and already an editor of one of Malaysia's best read leading brand magazine. Only one word - YOWWZA! I guess I must thank Aunty Ida after all for setting this meeting up for me - yes I know I whined and all but I didn't know he was with FHM! Haha, call me two-face whatever; I don't care coz I've just been to FHM MY headquarters. Though the office is nondescript, and plain with the usual bourgeois brand of office furniture and clutter (my imagination: Transformer and Ja Ja Binks or Obi-Wan Kenobi figurines cluttering their desks, a temperature glass bird, Stitch in mock growl, ball-bearing toys); the atmosphere after 10am (when most of the staff came in from their teh tarik sessions) was not charged per se but 'vibrative' - background music turned to Hitz Fm and murmurs of conversation about design, laughter and what-did-you-see-during-the-weekend-over-the-shoulder chats. It really seems like a fun place to work in. I think there were about 9 people working in that office and all of them seem really cool to work with - they were dressed in cool duds. Mr Looi came in fashionably late (I had to wait a while) with tinted fashion glasses - makes me wonder what kind of car he drives. =P
So, we were in the conference/storage room, chatting ackwardly coz yours truly here asked a question and got an unexpected answer. ...(wait for it)...
Me: So how do you know Mrs Mukherjee?
Miin Wei: Oh I don't. She just called me up out of the blue.
What the-??!! They don't know each other! I was mortified. Here I was thinking that Aunty Ida was pulling strings for me; I just didn't realised how long that ethereal string was! Of course, Miin Wei was very nice about it and going so far as to say what a nice teacher I have to do this for me. (Aunty Ida introduced herself as my old English teacher!)
So we chatted, and he gave me some of his insight into the world of advertising (he still does freelance copywriting from time to time), ask me a few questions about myself as he was scouting for future employees (his words not mine) and some more insights into the world of magazine writing. Apparently, there aren't many good writers in Malaysia; "anybody with a good command of English can be an editor," he said. Interesting bit of insight that. I don't know much about our writing community much less be in a position to judge its competency but for a cool mag editor. After that (30 mins) he asked for my contact number, and we shook hands and parted ways. I wish, I wish, I wish our paths might cross again. It'll be darn cool writing for a men's magazine even though I ain't no hairy, ball scratching, two headed hormone-driven homo sapient. *Trill of laughter, distinctively feminine...* ^_^
So, we were in the conference/storage room, chatting ackwardly coz yours truly here asked a question and got an unexpected answer. ...(wait for it)...
Me: So how do you know Mrs Mukherjee?
Miin Wei: Oh I don't. She just called me up out of the blue.
What the-??!! They don't know each other! I was mortified. Here I was thinking that Aunty Ida was pulling strings for me; I just didn't realised how long that ethereal string was! Of course, Miin Wei was very nice about it and going so far as to say what a nice teacher I have to do this for me. (Aunty Ida introduced herself as my old English teacher!)
So we chatted, and he gave me some of his insight into the world of advertising (he still does freelance copywriting from time to time), ask me a few questions about myself as he was scouting for future employees (his words not mine) and some more insights into the world of magazine writing. Apparently, there aren't many good writers in Malaysia; "anybody with a good command of English can be an editor," he said. Interesting bit of insight that. I don't know much about our writing community much less be in a position to judge its competency but for a cool mag editor. After that (30 mins) he asked for my contact number, and we shook hands and parted ways. I wish, I wish, I wish our paths might cross again. It'll be darn cool writing for a men's magazine even though I ain't no hairy, ball scratching, two headed hormone-driven homo sapient. *Trill of laughter, distinctively feminine...* ^_^
Wednesday, August 13, 2003
I'm really going to Perth! Tralalala LA...!
I've got my tickets to Perth yesterday! And my visa too so it is finalised! *waving tickets in the air* Kim, Kim can you see? ^__^ Just another week and I'll be in the land of sun, sea and surf. Bliss man, bliss. Of course I'll be suffering when my credit card bill comes later on but I'm trying not to think too much about it. =p I never really believed I was gonna go until I got my ticket in hand. It was almost like waiting for the axe to fall or something.
A night of cigars, wine and Belgium liqueur chocolates
Later, met up and had a good time catching up with Zona and Aqmal last night at Souled Out. I think this is the first time in almost a month that I've seen them; Zona's been really busy lately. Zona brought the cigars and a nice wooden box of Belgium liqueur chocolates, and I brought two bottles of wine - a Evans & Tate Cabernet Merlot and a Sandalford 1998 Shiraz. Lydia was supposed to join us but she couldn't make it. The Cabernet Merlot was good, my uncle would have loved it - dry, red wine is his favourite. The Shiraz was lighter, easier to drink as it wasn't so dry, but it had good legs and a deep burgundy glow. Not a bad choice if I do say so myself. =p Will definitely be buying more when I go to Perth next week. Zona bought a box of small Cuban cigars (I forgot the name - Mont-something) and medium sized Romeo&Juliets; while the Cuban ones are supposed to be the best, I found it kinda harsh for me, so settled for the lovely Romeo&Juliets (They tasted GREAT with the chocolates) ^__^
Made friends with our waiter - Remmy (how is his name spelt, zon?). He gave us free corkage for the second bottle of wine at the end after Aqmal subtle efforts of sweetening him up with chocolate and cigars! Hee hee... Remmy certainly enjoyed it. Nice guy, only 20 years old but he looks older than us; even ask our age earlier on. Not to sound too 'aware', but I bet many patrons (many of whom were MUCH older than us) were wondering how the hell and what the hell are us young'uns doing drinking wine and smoking cigars and eating liqueur chocolates, when they were having beer and chips. =p
A night of cigars, wine and Belgium liqueur chocolates
Later, met up and had a good time catching up with Zona and Aqmal last night at Souled Out. I think this is the first time in almost a month that I've seen them; Zona's been really busy lately. Zona brought the cigars and a nice wooden box of Belgium liqueur chocolates, and I brought two bottles of wine - a Evans & Tate Cabernet Merlot and a Sandalford 1998 Shiraz. Lydia was supposed to join us but she couldn't make it. The Cabernet Merlot was good, my uncle would have loved it - dry, red wine is his favourite. The Shiraz was lighter, easier to drink as it wasn't so dry, but it had good legs and a deep burgundy glow. Not a bad choice if I do say so myself. =p Will definitely be buying more when I go to Perth next week. Zona bought a box of small Cuban cigars (I forgot the name - Mont-something) and medium sized Romeo&Juliets; while the Cuban ones are supposed to be the best, I found it kinda harsh for me, so settled for the lovely Romeo&Juliets (They tasted GREAT with the chocolates) ^__^
Made friends with our waiter - Remmy (how is his name spelt, zon?). He gave us free corkage for the second bottle of wine at the end after Aqmal subtle efforts of sweetening him up with chocolate and cigars! Hee hee... Remmy certainly enjoyed it. Nice guy, only 20 years old but he looks older than us; even ask our age earlier on. Not to sound too 'aware', but I bet many patrons (many of whom were MUCH older than us) were wondering how the hell and what the hell are us young'uns doing drinking wine and smoking cigars and eating liqueur chocolates, when they were having beer and chips. =p
Tuesday, August 12, 2003
D&D rejection letter
Just to short entry to update you all that I didn't get the Denney & Denney copywriting job. They sent a rejection letter last week. *sigh* I was torn, seriously. I did kinda got my hopes up for this one coz the 2nd interview went so well. My sister called me on my mobile when I was in KB to tell me I got mail from D&D and right then, I knew I lost the job. I didn't know this would affect me so badly. But I guess I did put too much hope in it. Now, I've stopped applying for jobs as I'll be going to Perth on 19 August which is like a week away. So I'm gonna go back to Perth, enjoy myself, forget about my misery and deal with it when I get back.
Monday, August 11, 2003
Transportation made easy
I'm back from the land of the damned. But I miss Patches so much. He's soooo adorable and I miss him. *sigh* Trust me to go ga-ga over a pet. =P
Seriously, despite KLIA being stuck in the land of Kelapa Sawits (Palm oil plantations), it is quite easy to get there and back with the KLIA express and Sentral Station. Of course since all I had were my laptop and a trolley bag, it was a breeze. RM35 for a one-way ticket is reasonable, coz such costly technology needs to be maintained properly in order for it to function without a hitch, right? I don't know why people are still complaining about KLIA being so far. RM35 is considered cheap by international standards, imagine paying the exorbitant prices for trains in Tokyo, Switzerland, England, etc; ours is by far the cheapest for such ease and comfort. I overheard a lady at the ticket counter exclaiming her disgust at the price and saying they were cheating customers and such. *roll eyes*
Driving there is no hardship either, since most KLites drive past 100kph when on the highways.
So why all the hoo haa still? I'll admit that in the beginning some ripples were warranted, but afterwards they should have smoothed out by now. *sigh* I guess we will always cling to the old days when things were dirt cheap.
Haha, you might be thinking about my hair cut entry and well rightly so. We all want to pay next to nothing if we can, but we can't, if we want our economy to boom. I understand that. But at the moment RM60 for a brush and chop is not within my pitiful means.... =P
Seriously, despite KLIA being stuck in the land of Kelapa Sawits (Palm oil plantations), it is quite easy to get there and back with the KLIA express and Sentral Station. Of course since all I had were my laptop and a trolley bag, it was a breeze. RM35 for a one-way ticket is reasonable, coz such costly technology needs to be maintained properly in order for it to function without a hitch, right? I don't know why people are still complaining about KLIA being so far. RM35 is considered cheap by international standards, imagine paying the exorbitant prices for trains in Tokyo, Switzerland, England, etc; ours is by far the cheapest for such ease and comfort. I overheard a lady at the ticket counter exclaiming her disgust at the price and saying they were cheating customers and such. *roll eyes*
Driving there is no hardship either, since most KLites drive past 100kph when on the highways.
So why all the hoo haa still? I'll admit that in the beginning some ripples were warranted, but afterwards they should have smoothed out by now. *sigh* I guess we will always cling to the old days when things were dirt cheap.
Haha, you might be thinking about my hair cut entry and well rightly so. We all want to pay next to nothing if we can, but we can't, if we want our economy to boom. I understand that. But at the moment RM60 for a brush and chop is not within my pitiful means.... =P
Sunday, August 10, 2003
acciDENTAL talk?
Saturday was the only day I had to do everything. Came back early in the morning from my auntie's place as mom had to go give tuition to a bunch of Form 1 kids. Anyway, I took the opportunity to do a little closet cleaning and lo behold, my clothes from days of bad fashion sense! I had leg warmers in all colours including pink *_*, big sweaters with shoulder pads, those stupid high waisted jeans in tan and dirty green, and a whole load of t-shirts bought on the other side of the border; two even with *cringe* NKTB pictures on it! I threw about 80% of those clothes away; I doubt the poor would want them. Patches is now the proud owner of a mountain of cloths - he uses them for his bedding... he's soooo delighted. ^_^
Later on, went to my twice-removed dental surgery cousin who was named after a show in the 70's.
Dr. T. Sea Hunt:So back for holiday?
Me: No... in KL now. *squirming*
Sea Hunt: Oh where are you working now?
Me: Oh around la... freelance thingie... *squirming*
Sea Hunt: *changes topic* So how's your mom? (Mom is in the lounge)
Me: She's okay... in fact she's outside you can ask her.
Sea Hunt: (Knows I don't want to talk much)
Okay la, let's take a look at your teeth.....
(Two minutes later...)
Hmm... very good... you've been brushing very well... minimal gum bleeding... no plaque...
(Me beaming of course)
BUT....
Don't over do it okay? You've been over-brushing...
(Alamak... praise then put BUT in sentence... never knew there were such thing as over- brushing... well you live and learn everyday...)
Me: *Mumble mumble* (Can't very well speak properly right with a foreign object stuck into your mouth...)
Sea Hunt: Yeah....
Me: *mmmph... mumble mumble... *
Sea Hunt: Yes, you have to be gentle and brush at a 45 angle...
Me: *ahh uhhayy mmphg*?
Sea Hunt: 45 degrees coz it will get into those hard to reach places...
Me: *Uh... olaayhh ... bvvutt, wwhah ahout oossh phhoopace, uld wvee olttay , fwightt, uytt sthenm - UGHH!*
Sea Hunt: Don't talk so much... careful haah?
*What the-?*
I think this is some kind of evolutionary dental talk... It's amazing how dentists can and expect to carry a conversation with the patient while he/she's is creating a masterpiece in your mouth... *sigh*
After the dentist appointment, went to The Store to buy dog food for Patches and got a few things settled... buy this and that to bring back to KL, go look at silver jewellery, look at cheap shoes and clothes, got my glasses fixed, cut my hair...
Generally, this is what we do when we go back to our hometowns. So much more convenient that doing all this in KL and cheaper too! My hair cut cost me RM9! KL is sooo over-priced!
Later on, went to my twice-removed dental surgery cousin who was named after a show in the 70's.
Dr. T. Sea Hunt:So back for holiday?
Me: No... in KL now. *squirming*
Sea Hunt: Oh where are you working now?
Me: Oh around la... freelance thingie... *squirming*
Sea Hunt: *changes topic* So how's your mom? (Mom is in the lounge)
Me: She's okay... in fact she's outside you can ask her.
Sea Hunt: (Knows I don't want to talk much)
Okay la, let's take a look at your teeth.....
(Two minutes later...)
Hmm... very good... you've been brushing very well... minimal gum bleeding... no plaque...
(Me beaming of course)
BUT....
Don't over do it okay? You've been over-brushing...
(Alamak... praise then put BUT in sentence... never knew there were such thing as over- brushing... well you live and learn everyday...)
Me: *Mumble mumble* (Can't very well speak properly right with a foreign object stuck into your mouth...)
Sea Hunt: Yeah....
Me: *mmmph... mumble mumble... *
Sea Hunt: Yes, you have to be gentle and brush at a 45 angle...
Me: *ahh uhhayy mmphg*?
Sea Hunt: 45 degrees coz it will get into those hard to reach places...
Me: *Uh... olaayhh ... bvvutt, wwhah ahout oossh phhoopace, uld wvee olttay , fwightt, uytt sthenm - UGHH!*
Sea Hunt: Don't talk so much... careful haah?
*What the-?*
I think this is some kind of evolutionary dental talk... It's amazing how dentists can and expect to carry a conversation with the patient while he/she's is creating a masterpiece in your mouth... *sigh*
After the dentist appointment, went to The Store to buy dog food for Patches and got a few things settled... buy this and that to bring back to KL, go look at silver jewellery, look at cheap shoes and clothes, got my glasses fixed, cut my hair...
Generally, this is what we do when we go back to our hometowns. So much more convenient that doing all this in KL and cheaper too! My hair cut cost me RM9! KL is sooo over-priced!
Friday, August 08, 2003
What is the world coming to???
My cousin was harassed by road bullies last night. Two young malay men, one with a caterpillar mustache, riding pillion on a modified motorcycle chased her after she pulled out of the intersection near her house. They were shouting and smacking her car every time they were abreast, but luckily she kept her head and refused to stop the car when they tried to get her to pull over by using typical road bully tactics. They even tried to open her back door but luckily it was locked. She had no idea why these men are attacking her. It could be because they saw that there was a pretty girl driving all alone at night and thought they could take advantage of her. Boy did she show them. She fought back by driving a little dangerously and tried to nudge them off the road by swerving whenever the bike was parallel to her car. They followed her all the way to town which was 15 minutes away, so she headed for the police station. When the harassers realised this, they disappeared. If my cousin did offend them in some way, then they shouldn't mind following her into the police station, but they didn't. Even though if she did offend them there is NO call to attacked her like that.
This is just one incident that has made me most adamant that I will not be settling down in Kelantan, and I will try my hardest to get my mom to move to KL.
Kelantan is a horrible place because it is so filled with Malays and their fanatical and warped interpretation of Islam. I know the real practice of Islam is not so stupid as the one practiced here in Kelantan. Basem taught me that the real Islam is a peaceful religion, unlike the farce of a religion taught by PAS. We all think it, but we dare not say it. Well I'm saying it now because someone has to if we want to be safe. You ask how to I equate that incident with my ravings? Well, PAS has been trying to implement the Hudud laws which proclaims women as objects subjected to the whims of fanatically self-righteous, fibre-deficient and conceited men who are so warped in their thinking and reasoning, that they do not realised that they are cowards. Maybe those harassers for whatever unthinkable reason decided to attacked my cousin because they think they have the right to do bully a girl. If it were a guy, they would have thought twice before acting like hooligans And the reason they think this is because they were brainwashed by PAS. PAS is the same political party that dictated that pretty women should not work because they can use their beauty as a commodity, whereas ugly women don't have such luck so they should work. Does this mean that PAS puts a lot of stock in physical looks and not the heart? Is that what Islam is all about?! Maybe pretty girls in their offices are too much of a temptation and they seek to remove said temptation from their lusty peripheral with that stupid suggestion. So what does that say about them being a Man? They are not real men. They are boys, if they have as little control as that. The only thing separating us from animals is that we have the ability to control our basic urges.
The stooopid side
Example 1: If a woman is raped, she has to have at least four MALE witnesses to prove her case. AND female witnesses have no power - FOUR female witnesses equals to ONE male witness. What the HELL is that? And of course if you are wearing 'provocative' clothing meaning non-baju kurung and no tudung, then you are in the wrong for inciting the rapist to rape you.
Example 2: A couple of girls were molested in the school's girls' toilet by a group of guys who followed them into the toilet. When they reported this to the asst headmaster, who is a staunch supporter of PAS, the jerk told them he couldn't do anything as it was their own fault for dressing provocatively and flirting with boys in general. (The girls were in uniform.)
Example 3: Women should only be allowed to be mothers and teachers, and should not be allowed to handle 'manly-matters' (politics, business dealings, banking, etc). I had this little 'advice' lectured to me by a secondary school teacher years ago. Apparently, females must stay home and be a baby factory and must make sure that your husband is happy no matter what, even though you are not happy, coz if your husband is happy, you are happy.
Well do you know what this female says to that? Screw you and your advise to hell. Some people might even think this is a good advice but I'm a contrary creature, so says my sister. Go figure.
These are just some examples that I come across all the time when I come back to Kota Bharu. Then today I went to close my account at Maybank and all the time I was in there, men with white 'croqueted' hats were staring at me, and I did not imagine it as I did a sweep and each one of them were staring boldly. One sleazy 60 plus-year-old man wearing a sarong and a turban tried to chat me up! Then he put his arm along the back of the seat next to me with his fingers tapping next to my shoulders with fingers wriggles from time to time. I got fed up. I looked him straight in the eye but he couldn't hold my gaze. His eyes shifted away, but not his fingers! Lecher!
I really hate this town. And it's still a town coz they don't know jack about possible development of a town much less governing one. They just wanna drive around town in their Mercedes Benzes, wearing Rayban sunglasses with a white turban, at 40kph in the fast lane.
This is just one incident that has made me most adamant that I will not be settling down in Kelantan, and I will try my hardest to get my mom to move to KL.
Kelantan is a horrible place because it is so filled with Malays and their fanatical and warped interpretation of Islam. I know the real practice of Islam is not so stupid as the one practiced here in Kelantan. Basem taught me that the real Islam is a peaceful religion, unlike the farce of a religion taught by PAS. We all think it, but we dare not say it. Well I'm saying it now because someone has to if we want to be safe. You ask how to I equate that incident with my ravings? Well, PAS has been trying to implement the Hudud laws which proclaims women as objects subjected to the whims of fanatically self-righteous, fibre-deficient and conceited men who are so warped in their thinking and reasoning, that they do not realised that they are cowards. Maybe those harassers for whatever unthinkable reason decided to attacked my cousin because they think they have the right to do bully a girl. If it were a guy, they would have thought twice before acting like hooligans And the reason they think this is because they were brainwashed by PAS. PAS is the same political party that dictated that pretty women should not work because they can use their beauty as a commodity, whereas ugly women don't have such luck so they should work. Does this mean that PAS puts a lot of stock in physical looks and not the heart? Is that what Islam is all about?! Maybe pretty girls in their offices are too much of a temptation and they seek to remove said temptation from their lusty peripheral with that stupid suggestion. So what does that say about them being a Man? They are not real men. They are boys, if they have as little control as that. The only thing separating us from animals is that we have the ability to control our basic urges.
The stooopid side
Example 1: If a woman is raped, she has to have at least four MALE witnesses to prove her case. AND female witnesses have no power - FOUR female witnesses equals to ONE male witness. What the HELL is that? And of course if you are wearing 'provocative' clothing meaning non-baju kurung and no tudung, then you are in the wrong for inciting the rapist to rape you.
Example 2: A couple of girls were molested in the school's girls' toilet by a group of guys who followed them into the toilet. When they reported this to the asst headmaster, who is a staunch supporter of PAS, the jerk told them he couldn't do anything as it was their own fault for dressing provocatively and flirting with boys in general. (The girls were in uniform.)
Example 3: Women should only be allowed to be mothers and teachers, and should not be allowed to handle 'manly-matters' (politics, business dealings, banking, etc). I had this little 'advice' lectured to me by a secondary school teacher years ago. Apparently, females must stay home and be a baby factory and must make sure that your husband is happy no matter what, even though you are not happy, coz if your husband is happy, you are happy.
Well do you know what this female says to that? Screw you and your advise to hell. Some people might even think this is a good advice but I'm a contrary creature, so says my sister. Go figure.
These are just some examples that I come across all the time when I come back to Kota Bharu. Then today I went to close my account at Maybank and all the time I was in there, men with white 'croqueted' hats were staring at me, and I did not imagine it as I did a sweep and each one of them were staring boldly. One sleazy 60 plus-year-old man wearing a sarong and a turban tried to chat me up! Then he put his arm along the back of the seat next to me with his fingers tapping next to my shoulders with fingers wriggles from time to time. I got fed up. I looked him straight in the eye but he couldn't hold my gaze. His eyes shifted away, but not his fingers! Lecher!
I really hate this town. And it's still a town coz they don't know jack about possible development of a town much less governing one. They just wanna drive around town in their Mercedes Benzes, wearing Rayban sunglasses with a white turban, at 40kph in the fast lane.
Thursday, August 07, 2003
My butt got pinched - by the toilet seat!
Prologue (hee hee)
This is supposed to be wednesday's blog but I missed the deadline by 1 frekin' minute!
I'm finally home, in Kota Bharu. Don't get me wrong, I'm not happy because I'm in KB but rather because I'm with my Patches again. ^_^ The poor thing, he looks so old and weary. He's got white hairs all over his black patches. He is 84 years old in dog years. The moment he saw me, his whole being actually lighted up I kid you not. Started running around as fast as his old legs could carry him, the little darling. I wish I have means to post up a picture of Patches here, but recall my previous attempts and you'll see it's hopeless at the moment.
I'm now in my cousin's place using her Powerbook G4. Why does everyone have one? Next to my elbow is another exact model. Everyone is into Apple these days, not that I can blame them. =p It is a dreamy piece of machinery. My dream computer. *sigh*
As to the toilet seat... well, the seat was broken in my counsin's place - had a crack. I didn't notice it. So I sat down and OWWIEEE! Hell, my butt must have cleared as least three feet with that horrible pinch. Bah...
My journey home took a warped turn only because I didn't sleep a wink again! It must be something with me coz every time I'm anxious about something, I can't sleep the night before. (I'm a virgin AirAsia flyer. =p )And it's like a chain effect, once I start thinking, I think about EVERYTHING, I worry about EVERYTHING, despite my body yelling at my mind to shut the f*ck up there! I know... What the-?
Anyway, woke up at an ungodly hour - 4am - and called a cab at 5am. Of course since it was still night, got charged RM15 just to go to KL Sentral Station. Personally, I think the meter was rigged. Schumacher wannabe was driving at 120kph and I got there in 10 mins and the meter flashed '9.10' Eeshh. Didn't want to argue with the guy, as I didn't want to be another uncanny case of abduction, rape and mayhem. *grin*
Anyway, dragged meself to the KLIA Express counter to get my ticket and thus begins my journey of 'I-look-like-a-nice-person-come-ask-me-for-help' saga. It's a long story but basically I helped out a handicapped man and a very old rickety Malay lady with a 'kelate' accent. The flight itself was uneventful as I was mostly asleep. But a point to note is the flight crew. I must admit I like their uniform - shapely pants and zip up jacket in traffic light RED, the Air Asia official colour. Other than that the leading's grasp of spoken malay is sooo chinese with the horrible 'longat' as we 'kelates' say. Every time she tripped over her Rs, I winched. They should add proper 'plonouncialation' to their list of requirements, but then if the flight works, hooray for them, coz I can't argue because the ticket price is ridiculously cheap! Malaysia Boleh!
This is supposed to be wednesday's blog but I missed the deadline by 1 frekin' minute!
I'm finally home, in Kota Bharu. Don't get me wrong, I'm not happy because I'm in KB but rather because I'm with my Patches again. ^_^ The poor thing, he looks so old and weary. He's got white hairs all over his black patches. He is 84 years old in dog years. The moment he saw me, his whole being actually lighted up I kid you not. Started running around as fast as his old legs could carry him, the little darling. I wish I have means to post up a picture of Patches here, but recall my previous attempts and you'll see it's hopeless at the moment.
I'm now in my cousin's place using her Powerbook G4. Why does everyone have one? Next to my elbow is another exact model. Everyone is into Apple these days, not that I can blame them. =p It is a dreamy piece of machinery. My dream computer. *sigh*
As to the toilet seat... well, the seat was broken in my counsin's place - had a crack. I didn't notice it. So I sat down and OWWIEEE! Hell, my butt must have cleared as least three feet with that horrible pinch. Bah...
My journey home took a warped turn only because I didn't sleep a wink again! It must be something with me coz every time I'm anxious about something, I can't sleep the night before. (I'm a virgin AirAsia flyer. =p )And it's like a chain effect, once I start thinking, I think about EVERYTHING, I worry about EVERYTHING, despite my body yelling at my mind to shut the f*ck up there! I know... What the-?
Anyway, woke up at an ungodly hour - 4am - and called a cab at 5am. Of course since it was still night, got charged RM15 just to go to KL Sentral Station. Personally, I think the meter was rigged. Schumacher wannabe was driving at 120kph and I got there in 10 mins and the meter flashed '9.10' Eeshh. Didn't want to argue with the guy, as I didn't want to be another uncanny case of abduction, rape and mayhem. *grin*
Anyway, dragged meself to the KLIA Express counter to get my ticket and thus begins my journey of 'I-look-like-a-nice-person-come-ask-me-for-help' saga. It's a long story but basically I helped out a handicapped man and a very old rickety Malay lady with a 'kelate' accent. The flight itself was uneventful as I was mostly asleep. But a point to note is the flight crew. I must admit I like their uniform - shapely pants and zip up jacket in traffic light RED, the Air Asia official colour. Other than that the leading's grasp of spoken malay is sooo chinese with the horrible 'longat' as we 'kelates' say. Every time she tripped over her Rs, I winched. They should add proper 'plonouncialation' to their list of requirements, but then if the flight works, hooray for them, coz I can't argue because the ticket price is ridiculously cheap! Malaysia Boleh!
Tuesday, August 05, 2003
Flying to KB tomorrow
Hmm... okay, I'm all packed to go back to KB tomorrow. A few baby tee and jeans and a whole load of laundry. Well, I'm still living like a student evidently. Haha. Gosh, I'll have to wake up at 4am and leave the house by 5am by taxi. Wonder if I'll be charge the midnight rate. *shrug* My flight is scheduled for 0740 hours and reaching KB at 0835. "Passengers are advised to check-in at least 2 hours in advance..." At lest 2 hours? What are we? Trans-domestic flight? Sheesh... plus it's free seating. Wonder how many people will behave themselves. To be fair, I shouldn't knock it till I tried it. *sigh* Guess I better get an early night tonight if I'm to be awake the time when I usually go to bed.
Monday, August 04, 2003
Phew...
I didn't realize how distrustful I am of Air Asia’s online booking system. Until the moment came to send my card details, I was actually hesitating and sweating until the moment of action. Such a (perversely Murphy's law) simply click could be dangerous. Haha. Not that I don't trust online transactions, just the server that I'm on. Oh-oh, another betraying thought about Malaysia's less than perfect systems.
Maybe the reason why we distrust our own 'people's ability' is because its the distrust that breeds incompetence. Sort of like a chicken and egg effect. All of us distrust, therefore creating a void and the universal law dictates that all voids shall be filled eventually, and thus our distrust is like a expectation and don't we all love to fulfill expectations? We hear if not perpetuate slander against government servants and the likes, but my mom was a public servant and she's a darn good teacher. Evidently, she gets hailed every time she goes to town and during CNY, there are usually legions of old students waiting to visit with her. I have had the honour of serving said students time and time again. =) So not all public servants are that bad.
Should I even mention race coz it's such a taboo subject around these parts. But then race is a strong factor in this argument simply because of the fact that Malaysia cannot let go of its arcane legacies, if not monolithic. If we were to unite and obliterate all documents on race, we will be stronger than ever. Instead we bicker and fight and create possibilities of civil wars; all because we think we should have certain rights. I know I see it too simple but some things should be viewed simply for the greater good. Blast me if you want if you disagree with my thoughts. ^_^
Maybe the reason why we distrust our own 'people's ability' is because its the distrust that breeds incompetence. Sort of like a chicken and egg effect. All of us distrust, therefore creating a void and the universal law dictates that all voids shall be filled eventually, and thus our distrust is like a expectation and don't we all love to fulfill expectations? We hear if not perpetuate slander against government servants and the likes, but my mom was a public servant and she's a darn good teacher. Evidently, she gets hailed every time she goes to town and during CNY, there are usually legions of old students waiting to visit with her. I have had the honour of serving said students time and time again. =) So not all public servants are that bad.
Should I even mention race coz it's such a taboo subject around these parts. But then race is a strong factor in this argument simply because of the fact that Malaysia cannot let go of its arcane legacies, if not monolithic. If we were to unite and obliterate all documents on race, we will be stronger than ever. Instead we bicker and fight and create possibilities of civil wars; all because we think we should have certain rights. I know I see it too simple but some things should be viewed simply for the greater good. Blast me if you want if you disagree with my thoughts. ^_^
'Redecorating' in progress
Sorry all... I messed up something in the codes and I'm too tired to figure it out. Have been a bit under the weather lately; dunno why and not particularly interested in finding out why. So don't ask me why I'm sick. Hopefully I'll still be able to fly home.
Anyway, just bear with me and my mistakes, 'kay? Or whatever...
Anyway, just bear with me and my mistakes, 'kay? Or whatever...
Patches needs me
I'll be going back to KB this week I think, but the flight plans haven't been finalised yet so I can't stake my life on the departure date. Been looking at Air Asia flights coz I can't afford MAS' price since they took away the Super Saver deals. Darn. I need to go back and see Patches. Apparently he's not doing too well as age has definately caught up with him. He's already 12 (x 7) years old and he's getting on in his dotage. He needs me and I'm going home.
Friday, August 01, 2003
On tenterhooks
I'm still waiting to hear from Denney & Denney. They said I should hear from them by today regarding my future as a copywriter in D&D. Sigh... waiting must be a concept that came into being solely meant to torture human kind for their earlier sins in life. It's like a new version of Hell on Earth; the Devil must be a multimedia designer or something to be so creative.
'Tis most disconcerting; I keep glancing at my phone, waiting for the screen to light up with the D&D name flashing at me. Had a few close calls when my heart almost jumped out of my breast. I hope that I didn't growl too badly. I'm sorry. You know what I mean.
There is a sad side to my 'affair' with D&D, for it comes with a price. If I get the job, I'll have to cancel my trip to Perth coz they would want me to start immediately. I'm sooooo sorry, Kim. I plan to console myself with the fact that getting a future with D&D is my dream come true, which I hope will finance my future trips to Perth later on. ^_^
Call me, D&D, with a positive answer PLEASE...
* I'm listening to the Flight of the Bumblebee which of course is not helping me with my pounding heart...*
bleah... I'm such a masochist.
'Tis most disconcerting; I keep glancing at my phone, waiting for the screen to light up with the D&D name flashing at me. Had a few close calls when my heart almost jumped out of my breast. I hope that I didn't growl too badly. I'm sorry. You know what I mean.
There is a sad side to my 'affair' with D&D, for it comes with a price. If I get the job, I'll have to cancel my trip to Perth coz they would want me to start immediately. I'm sooooo sorry, Kim. I plan to console myself with the fact that getting a future with D&D is my dream come true, which I hope will finance my future trips to Perth later on. ^_^
Call me, D&D, with a positive answer PLEASE...
* I'm listening to the Flight of the Bumblebee which of course is not helping me with my pounding heart...*
bleah... I'm such a masochist.