Splatter of Eccentric Blood

Just playing around

2012-02-02T02:07:00.001+08:00

I do not blog that often. But since having an ipad, its become a motivation to do so. Since its so convenient, and so much can be done on this device.

Just trying out whatever i can do in blogpress

or what not be done.

Now here's a recent me.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

This

2011-09-16T06:01:00.000+08:00

This, my friend, is the famous Malaysian food - Nasi Lemak literally translated as "rice fats".

CHCKL 10th Anniversary

2011-08-28T01:08:00.000+08:00

Today marks the 1st decade of City Harvest Church Kuala Lumpur and the dedication of our new building. This is my home, and the place that has shaped, groomed and transformed me.

I've been away from this church since Oct 2009 after I quit my job as a full time staff. There are a couple of reasons to why I decided not to attend this church anymore, but hating this church is not one of it. I wont tell you all of the reasons, but one of it has to do with my personal growth.

Having appear once in a blue moon at church does give me pressure, as people would question on my disappearance. Sorry to say that sometimes, its quite harsh that I'll feel condemned for vanishing and irresponsible for throwing all my responsibilities behind, having the rest of the team to pick them up. But I would say that this happened for a good reason, at least for me.

Stepping out into the real world out of the comfort zone of caring people (though challenges are still a big part of church life), did good to polish my character. This is a very personal thing. Everyone is different, and the way to grow into maturity is also different. After almost 2 years away from church, today, I can finally say that God has been moulding me into a different stage of life even though I did not attend services. I've been groomed in a different way which allowed me to see things in a different perspective and gives way to a clearer understanding.

The times of sorrow is finally ending, and I'm being ushered into a great life as of this moment. Having struggled in identity, power, talent and who i really am, now I am much more assured and less fearful of people's thoughts about me. I wont say I'm completely free from people's judgment towards me, but at least I'm more comfortable with who I am now. I'm just different the way I'm made, and everybody is. I don't need the confirmation to fit into majority or my peers. Where as concerning my work as a designer, I'm blessed with an international company with very strong backup to start a new brand, and fashion branding & designing is all about me! I love branding, I love creating collections, I love telling a story through a brand, I'm a multi sports person, and this is a sports wear brand! After struggling in my micro business, and applying for 80 vacancies, this is the only one that replied, and it is by far the best job that I've ever done. More to that, I have exceptionally great people to work with. They are very down to earth, God-fearing people and a heart for humanitarian, which is also also my burden.

Walking into a new CHC KL today, makes me proud of it all. Especially when I have been absent, but everyone's been upholding me and loving me the same. That made me feel that I've never stepped out of it ever. And with Pst Kong, Sun, Pst Phil and Chris present on this special occasion, I know we're all blessed... VERY blessed.

A toast to our new future!

2011-08-12T00:51:00.001+08:00

I cannot say more how much I'm impressed by the work that I'm doing and how by chance or not I coincidentally fall into place on works of the burdens in my heart.

For the past 6 months I've been applying jobs for more than 60 companies but non has got back to me with any news, both good nor bad. And this one company that contacted me, and hired me by far (2 weeks since commencement) has inspired and amazed me with the humble works that are underneath the surface. Its surface is merely a fashion company, a new start up brand with a strong international manufacturing business that has operated for more than 30 over years. But underneath that lies a humble vision which is to earn the pure and humble profit to support a greater work in restoration of Japan.

As I was assigned to coordinate and sell merchandises (t shirts) for a charity concert in collaboration with renown Japanese composer, singers, musicians and song writer, little did I know my first task in the company has a far greater mission behind it.

Tonight, my boss has opened his home to invite all these Japanese on tour to gather for supper after the concert, he shared his vision towards the restoration work for Japan. Followed by the Japanese sharing their thoughts and ideas of his future development. It was a spectacular moment as 4 different races (jamaican and caucasian residing in Japan, the Japanese and us locals) gathers and the discussion was carried through by translations. Such heart felt warmth that touches me deeply.

It has been my greatest desire to aid the needs. As a matter of fact, I have been deciding to enrol in a degree of social work just recently. Many plans I had didn't come thru, including my plans for migation which I've tried for 2 years and doing my own craft and clothing business. Then when all this recent happenings after I joined this company, it makes me think if God is really leading the way to what he really wants me to do and making my own plans not work. Is this the right timing?

I have walked out on him once which I once thought was my calling to serve his people. But I'm walking back into it this time with stronger feelings and better equipped character. As I go to bed tonight... I hope He'll speak to my senses and gives me that vision.

Sent from my BlackBerry® smartphone

Bliss

2011-08-10T01:44:00.000+08:00

Sitting here at 1:30am at my kitchen table recollecting the hectic event I went through today.

I'm entering my 2nd week at my new job and today is the first I got home past midnight. Nevertheless, I feel satisfied, belonged, and part of a greater world than myself.

My boss is running a big project in conjunction with renown musicians, composers and singers from Japan, to support the work of the restoration of Tohoku earthquake and Tsunami victims. Well, part of it related to my job is that we supplied in house designed t shirts to raise fund for this cause. Another part of it is to support this event which isn't exactly related to my job.

But all I can say now, after such a crazy day is that I'm really happy to be part of this team that consist only of my boss, a business manager and myself - the designer. Though only the 3 of us, which I am just a small part of it all after joining this company, together with many strong parties, the event was a success and I almost teared looking at how much we can do to help the helpless.

I may not be able to volunteer and be present in Japan, nor am I capable of putting together such a big project with a big vision. But I selflessly poured myself into the task that I'm given today and the rest of the week, which is to coordinate these clothes and make a good sales! The result today has put smile on the team's faces.

Remember all that I've went through in soul searching and landing on a job and job environment that I'm happy with? As far as where I am now after a week in this company, I think I can only be grateful, and there might be nothing else that can replace that - probably not even my big migration dream which is at the top of the list.

Thank you God for giving me a really humble and kind hearted boss and manager. The only thing that I wished for in my new career path is to be happy... and I am now. I don't know what will happen when the real deal kicks in, but so far I'm in the flow that allows me to unleash my potentials and positive to my well being. I do not have those fear like I use to have in a china-man mentality surrounding but able to voice my thoughts and enjoy each other's partnership in the team.

A fine Tuesday morning

2011-08-09T09:46:00.000+08:00

How did you start your Tuesday?

Mine came with this tune:

And a cheese custard. Something that looks like this, just 4 times longer

picture source: http://carbwars.blogspot.com

How awesome a Tuesday it is....

2011-06-30T08:32:00.000+08:00

If you're a gay Christian and looking for a change, your change is not becoming straight, or hetrosexual. If you are attracted to the same sex, you cannot deny how you feel. You may have tried to suppress the feeling or train a habit that will lessen your attraction towards the same sex, but that is NOT your goal. Your aim is suppose to be living in accord to your belief and faith. Because that is every individual, every Christian's work, be it gay, lesbian, transsexual, bisexual, straight; gambler, drug addict, alcoholic...etc.

2011-06-28T01:37:00.000+08:00

This is just what I feel like doing right now.. Swim toward infinity. Its not only what I feel like doing, but also how I feel at the moment. The road before me is just endless, and I am clueless where its going to lead me to.

7 months of investing my time, money and effort in full force into a craft business that doesn't work out, I have no choice but to surrender to the reality that this business just wont work out in my country. So, for the past 3 - 4 months, I've been trying to find an open door back to my industry - fashion design.

To my surprise, I've never experienced how difficult it is to look for a job until now. After talking to a couple of friends at the same senior levels, they are also experiencing the same thing. The industry is getting more and more competitive. Designers are not exactly a professional now. Not many companies are willing to pay high salary to hire experienced designers who know a thing or two. They'd rather spend lesser on fresh grads, even though they have no experience, but they will follow your instructions without questions asked.

Its a major whirlwind for me. Dilemma between wanting to migrate, versus eligibility, versus scarce job opportunities, and its not only in my own country, but also New Zealand, Australia, Singapore, China and Thailand. I ask myself, is it possible to remain in the industry? Or else, this will be the best time to change career. But what if fashion is my only passion? And I'm good in nothing else but doing this?

I wish its as easy as tell me how to do it.

爱出名没错

2011-05-18T23:31:00.001+08:00

有一天我碰上一位20岁的小男生，是位新歌手。我就问他说“你会展望自己出名吗？”。他回答说“谁做歌手是不想自己出名的呢？”

我不晓得他这答案是否合理。如果每错，也有歌手纯粹是为了音乐而活，根本就没期望有什么名誉的。可是对我而言，我每天都期望着自己能在时装界出人头地，创出我的天下。自小我就爱众人的关注。他们那羡慕的眼神打亮在我身上时，我更是加把热情的表演。可是离开国中后，就再也没碰上音乐方面的演出了。

爱出名有错吗？我还是今年才知道，这根本就没什么问题。可是过去的十几年来，我都披着一个错误的教导，说爱于众人的注目，想出名是不对的心理障碍！现在，这总算有个健康的解放了！当然，一切都必须有平衡点。做什么事情，过于偏向一边都不健康。这也不例外。爱与受注目也得有个平衡点，不能太过于自我。

Something bigger than myself

2011-02-28T05:19:00.000+08:00

Is it too late for a new year's resolution?
Ofcourse not, its never too late to improve yourself.

I guess I can finally settle down with a resolution that I really wanna do this year. A target that is not something to be completed and scrape off the to-do-list. But rather some sort of foundation through the journey that will empower me to achieve anything.

I need to talk. I've decided that this year, I need to find or put myself into a surrounding that is much bigger than myself. I need to meet and talk to ppl bigger than myself. It is the only way i can kill my own pride, and it will keep me humble in order to learn and absorb. I need a mentor, be it in life or in business. I need something bigger than myself to show me more of this world.

I need to talk, and meet people that is bigger than myself.

Feeling is..?

2011-02-24T00:39:00.000+08:00

Its a subject so complex that no one, in my own opinion even the bible, can justify it.

I believe a religious person will lecture me on how it is justified through the example given by Jesus, Buddha..etc etc. But love is a feeling, and a feeling cannot be justified. There is no right or wrong in feelings.

I feel sad, I feel happy, I feel angry, I feel frustrated... I feel in love... you cannot say it is right to feel this way or that, because your body creates the feeling that you cannot control.

But by doing things accordance to how you feel, to an extent requires responsibility.
You love me, because you feel in-love. Tomorrow when you don't feel that way.. what's it gonna be?
"He killed that man, because he felt overwhelmed by his anger". Is that fair? What? Just because you're angry you can kill a person? No, you can't, but yes you did kill a person because you felt led to do it.

I may choose to accept your feelings toward me, but at the same time I have the rights to choose not to accept your irresponsible "because I felt that way" attitude towards me. Doesn't one needs to be responsible for the actions they put out to others from how they feel?

Feeling poured out to a person, can make him stronger or even weakens him to no point of return. Your love has made me weak to a point I became obsessed. To a point I could lose my own identity. But you saw it coming, therefore you warned me. But is it wrong to indulge and plunge myself into your pool of love and get drunk in it? Maybe I should be responsible for having no self-control in a situation like this.

Feeling is such an asshole I wish.. alright.. maybe I shouldn't wish for non. But.. ya.. exactly like that.. feeling makes us all stupid and confuse.

2011-02-17T04:32:00.000+08:00

I immediately fell in love with this song when Tommy shared it with me.
I know how that feeling is. Maybe not similar. But.. its the feeling of how much has happened in life, and how much you have changed to become stronger.

i'm in love but not in a relationship

2011-02-15T04:04:00.000+08:00

I did say that I was in love, but I wasn't in a relationship. Mainly because either one of our circumstance doesn't allow us to be.

Now, someone said, I need to be loved / in love, but i don't want/need a relationship.

I'm trying to grasp this idea of being in love, but not in a relationship. So, is it just a feel good feeling sans the responsibility? For a couple of days I ponder on this statement, but I do not get a revelation of it. Fyi, we're talking about lovers, partners or couples; not friends or family.

How I finally get the idea is through compromising, because I do not want to lose the person. That way, I can still continue to love, but we're not in a relationship. If I held on to my "needs" believing only in having a relationship, then I may lose the person. But I'm feeling that either way, eventually, nothing will sustain.

Have you ever heard of this statement? Enlighten me.

xxJ

Finding a situation

2011-02-12T20:54:00.001+08:00

I had a long chat with Tommy at his chic cozy apartment facing the manmade forest in the heart of KL city. With dim lights and soothing french woman’s singing from the bose, it is easy for one to spill the heart’s deepest trouble.

we spoke of many things, but one that engraves in my heart six feet under is my trouble finding my path in career which leads to a messy direction in life. Tommy with his gift in sixth senses topped with his intelligence and wisdom guided me through a self-evaluation. I hope by sharing this to you, you’ll be enlightened as well.

As some of you might have known, I graduated university with a fashion and graphic design diploma and with a humble award in a fashion competition that paved ways to my fashion career. Unfortunately, I live by abiding certain standards in life – what is passed down from my superiors and family. For example, I believe a fashion designer is a celebrity job, and one as a designer should always upkeep themselves and not be seen doing something that is a level lower than a designer in the organization ladder; or business should abide a certain pattern that is proved successful to some companies, and should not be done in other ways, etc. It does sound wrong putting them into just a sentence, but when one is in a circumstance, the heart may sometimes be blinded.

As such, I’ve been trying hard to find a destination in life whereby I abide by these laws of “common standards” - such and such should be done this way or that way. Therefore, when I’m a designer, I find my future not assured, I’d shift to another area in the same field or others. In fashion industry alone, I’ve tried designing, manufacturing, merchandising, retail, business management; then I migrated my career path to graphic design, handicraft, fine art; and even humanitarian. However, it all draws a full circle and returns to the point where I flagged off hoping to find my destiny. In another words, I’m still clueless of what I want.

There are many reasons to it ofcourse. It could be the weakness in my personality that I need to correct in order to move forward. But what Tommy helped me to focus on this time, is CREATING A SITUATION. A person who has passion in something, is graduated from college in this field, does not mean they end up doing it 5, 10, 20 years down the road. Everything happens for a good cause, and is put together by the greater force to guide you into searching the purpose you’ve been created for. When any opportunity opens its door before you with kind invitation, take it regardless of how relevant it is to you. One can never understand the way God works in our lives. Many times, the things we do, is not our destiny, but a passing through period in order for us to get to the destination. For instance, if you were to fly to London from Malaysia, you might need to take a transit at France. France is not your destiny, but if you do not get there, you can’t get to London. It’s the same with whatever happens to us everyday. You may sometimes be asked to do something irrelevant to what you’re paid for in a company. Never limit these passing through moments, as they could be that one thing that you need to realize your destiny.

So, if you’re like me, stuck in your career path not knowing where or what to do, especially if you do not even have a qualification in any professional field, do anything that comes your way. Nothing you ever do will be a waste of time, but benefits you with experience.

Now, for another circumstance, if I know I know I know for sure that fashion designing is my destiny, it is the core of my life but I just can’t seem to grab hold of that promising job, or promising opportunity to become famous, I shouldn’t give up just then. Because if its not my moment, no matter how much I put in to market and promote the brand, I will not get there. This could be the order that God has put together. If your plan doesn’t work now, doesn’t mean that the same plan doesn’t work tomorrow. Sometimes it is just not the right time for it to work. The higher power above protects you and I. If you force yourself into the wrong timing, you’ll only get miserable and end up worse than you were.

Creating a situation plainly means to have an open heart and be available or to create an opportunity for something to happen, so that you can pass through this moment to get closer to your destiny. If one stays stagnant and waits for that moment to come, it’ll never, because time ticks by the second, it never skips from second10 to second 30. Time ticks every single second diligently.

So, you and I, lets stop worrying and become weary of what’s on our plates now. Lets create a situation whereby it ticks us closer to the hour of enlightenment!

Dilemma: money! i'm home...

2011-01-27T08:52:00.000+08:00

It is that season of time again, where I come face to face between passion versus reality.

After having switch back and forth from working for a company and working on my own, never have I expected the cycle is coming back to the starting point again... or the end point of a circle if you may.

4 months ago, I decided to take a step forward to bring a drastic change for my future by deciding to migrate to Australia. Unfortunately things didn't turn out as I expected and I'm stuck here with nothing but lost of hope. A couple of weeks after that, I decide to pick myself up and start my own business offering fashion and graphic design services, things that I've been always doing and good at.

Freelancing is not as easy as it seems. One can never be "free" by being a freelancer. Instead, its worse than being a paid staff. You work 7 days a week, at least 16 hours daily. You don't get to complain about too much overtime and definitely don't get to complain about too much work. Because the least you need is enough work to sustain your income-less lifestyle; or rather an unstable income.

Now, I cannot but accept the fact that my expanses are way over my income, and being so on-fire for my craft project selling online isn't rewarding at all. Mom said, "you've tried for 4 months, don't you think its long enough to make you wake up to reality?". Yes.. its tough and I really don't want it to be real.

There is a job opening for retail fashion manager for a french luxury brand. I've been called up for an interview today. But I turned it down, giving some cheap ass reason. One of the reason is because, I'm through with working for a company. I'm through with the corporate mentality in this country that isn't beneficial to any employee. Then again, why did I apply for the job in the first place is because I want to give myself another chance to be lucky enough to meet a good company that rewards their staff. I haven't tried enough companies to meet one that is actually worth slaving for.

However, the inside of me is telling me that I've tried so many times, corporate isn't my type. Its just not the way I live. If you may, I'd like to say its not in my belief! Yes, I'd love to get a fat cheque each month, and spend it on the things I can never have being a freelancer. For the least, I hope to be able to spend on better grooming, an athlete watch, upgrading my road bike.. yada yada yada. I'd like to have wine sessions each weekend, and look good if not branded.

I asked myself, if everyone out there is being employed, why should I be different? Because I'm jack of all trades? Because I think i'm smarter than other people? No, I'm not smarter or more intelligent than others, but I definitely have more trades than my peers. Which I always think is a waste to be put into a position doing just one thing. I want to be flexible! I want to be enjoying all the trades I'm gifted with.

I hate it that time and time again, I tell money that I don't need him. But every single time, I come back to square one "money, i'm home~~" as oppose to "honey".

If you are reading this, and you are an entrepreneur, please teach me how.

xxJoey

Good riddance fashion

2011-01-18T04:27:00.001+08:00

Can't deny that without money, a dream in making it big in fashion will not work. I know there are plenty of success stories on how one came from nothing and getting it big across the globe. But hey, they are one in a million. If its not meant forgod to let you have it, its never yours.

I always believe in the plan of god. So.. I'm probably closing the chapter of a dream to become the next big name in the fashion industry for now. But.... Its not entirely sad, for over the decade I find myself passionate about backpacking, travel, guesthouses and customer service. All these put together, god kind of opened another door for me today.

While reading a honest and kind of discouraging mail in regards with my so failure to make it in the glamour industry, the next mail is on the happier note. Someone from the industry offered me to work with him in his guesthouse! Well, its not my guesthouse, one that I so want to own, but it doesn't matter! Because all I want is to be happy. Wherever it is, I'll put all my heart in it.

Its ironic, how its so fictional that one door closes but the next opens immediately.

Good riddance fashion. I promise I'll be happy without u.

J
Sent from my BlackBerry® smartphone

Freelenacer's depression

2011-01-17T05:13:00.001+08:00

Working from home could cause a person to be depressed. That's not a statement, but my personal experience.

The funny thing is, most freelancers work from home because they're tired of the drama-nonsense in the corporate world. For me, its just in the industry. That industry where too many women get together can be quite nasty. And I have an artist mind of my own that I know I can go far with the ideas nested in me. But its still a real world where money is the boss. So I just gotta learn to stick to it and endure building first the foundation before the ideas can gain its recognition and acceptance.

A freelancer should be happier than anyone else since he's doing what he loves most and passionate about. That is still true despite the loneliness and stress of not knowing where the next income will come from and when. However, under all these stress of unstable financial support and mental support, depression takes its chance to sneak in.

So, I think all freelancers should support each other. Help each other. As long as we can give each other mental support, a shoulder to share and jobs for each other to fill our schedule, we'll be truly a happy person!

Sent from my BlackBerry® smartphone

Lone bike? Or group bike? Which is better?

2011-01-17T05:01:00.003+08:00

Which is best? To road bike alone? Or to cycle with a group. I'd say you get a balance from both.
I've only cycled with a group twice. 98 percent of them pro athletes, probably 30 percent of them triathletes. But my personal preference is still to cycle alone.

Road bikers like what they say are strategizers. We work in the deep mind and.. Probably caught planning out our work or giving deep thoughts to life management. Maybe just some of us, but we're definitely not the more crazy packs like our MTB brothers.

Since I started cycling 10 mths ago, inspired by my father who rounded up peninsula malaysia, and rode alone from BKK to Seremban for charity, I've been loving the peacefulness of the journey in riding alone. At times I'd push myself, other times I take it slow and really put attention to what's around me in the journey. However cycling with the group boosts your motivation, feel belonged with like-minded people and know your standard and ability.

I decide my destination only on the morning I ride and after I'm all geared up. Kelana jaya to putrajaya, or carey island, ampang and around, ijok, along kesas, klang, are the few I frequent most. Its really refreshing to discover many things along the way that I don't normally see while driving. And its definitely only riding on bike lanes that I see the amazingly crafted tunnels that goes from all kinds of directions underground and even above the main roads.

Never have I been disappointed with my rides, while getting so close to the fields that made me think "wow, I never notice the grass here is really green". I'd get to also see a different community and lifestyle below the raised highway.

Ofcourse besides the leisure, how can we forget the sore and sweat and moments I thought I'd get a heart attack from climbing the hill. Especially under the hot midday sun hanging just above u poking ur skin like needles and my body temperature rise so high my veins could explode. Even if I don't, my meter might.

After a day's out, I always end it by saying "that was a great ride" with 100% satisfaction. I'd return home a better man, more refreshed, and more ready to take up any challenges ahead, plus a firmer thigh and butt.
Now, my next aim is to tour to Bangkok on a bicycle!

Sent from my BlackBerry® smartphone

The time to be emo

2011-01-15T03:48:00.001+08:00

I can just feel it coming. The feeling of... depression, maybe, is knocking at my door.

I really have no idea how it snug into bed with me. Was it the night when I met this friend and he's spoke right into my soul? Had he dug out my buried unsolved emotions deep within that caused all this? Or is it because I have fear for love again?

But I know, after this season, I'll be able to soar high up, extending my wings heading towards infinite space above. God will definitely start a surgery in me through times like this.

Xxx

While I'm working a plan out to distribute my handmade journals to many shops in a couple of countries, I though maybe I can print this line on the first page:
"In every life, there is a story. You are the one, and only author that can write this story. YOU are unique"

I must have seen this somewhere sometime ago. But its true. No one has a story more amazng than the one we create our own. Thus, each of us is unique. And I want to remind people who gets my journal just that. Who knows I might help a person who is giving up hope?

To all of you, be strong. I'll be strong too.

J
Sent from my BlackBerry® smartphone

I'm laughing because your mind is flying around.

2011-01-14T01:48:00.001+08:00

Photo by Guido.Masi | Taken from Flickr

I think I've been away from the society for too long. Working from home, drowned in my own thoughts, my own ideas, my career, my life, my future, my destiny, my job, my designs, my worries.. my ... my my my.... is eating up on me and I only got to realize this when I met a newly made friend for the 2nd time today.

Its a bit rude for him to be judging me base on how he sees me on just the 2nd meet up. And mind you, the 1st and 2nd meet up add up is less than 3 hours. But I guess my habits is so obvious that it can be foretold within such a short time.

I kept my cool, because if a person wants to tell you who you are from what they presume, let it be. I learnt that there is no point of arguing, since the person doesn't know you that well in the first place. But this time, it kinda made it hard for me. Firstly, I haven't had a person talk to me about myself so personally for a long time. Secondly.. coming from someone I only know so casually, builds up my defensive wall. However, being the usual me who just thinks a lot... I thought that maybe there is some truth to it if I've heard it so many times over the past many years.

"I see fear in your eyes" he said.
"You think too much before taking a step to do something"

I'm not sure if the philosophy should be, fear nothing and go for it blindly? Or, like the infamous Nike motto "Just Do It", don't think twice. My debate on that would be, there is always a different situation to every issue. I am responsible for taking that bold step to do something, and that includes the outcome of the step I take. So isn't it reasonable that a one considers carefully before doing something?

If it is that easy for me to be in this shoe, then there would be plenty of freelancers and fresh entrepreneur out there, wouldn't it? Being a freelancer, setting up your own business, IS a big thing. Your income, your future, your life all depends on every single decision you make. There is no time to waste, and every minute you have, you make good use of it to figure out how to go around this business, or that. So, I don't think it justify to say that I have fear, and my mind is flying around - Just do it!

I don't know.. you tell me. I hope I get an answer from someone out there, since my network is so small and the people that I have close contact with are all in the same shoe as i am! Maybe we're all wrong to be living this way?

J

New project and liking it! Droolz!

2011-01-13T01:19:00.000+08:00

This is what i'm working on at the moment!
You'll find more of this very soon at Sakai Centric!

New Year, New Office, Old Passion!

2011-01-10T12:14:00.000+08:00

To start the year with 100% motivation and determination, i've set up a new studio to build my freelance business on.

Here are the stuffs that I do:

So.. if you're interested or in need of anything within the mentioned, drop me a mail! See how we can work it out. :)

J

End of another year

2010-12-20T04:41:00.001+08:00

Just finish watching a Korean movie that involved a girl whose bf went to paris for further studies whom she'd been waiting for 2 years, happen to return with a male companion and came out to her. I'm not going to go into details about the movie, but the ending is just good. 3 of them ended up being really good friends, really really good friends.

Sometimes its just better this way. I remember there are people whom I loved and I'd do anything, absolutely anything just for them. Even though we did not end up being couples, but we have it better - we became good friends that will walk together for the rest of our lives, rain or shine.

Coming to the end of the year, everyone's putting on their thinking hat and walk down the memory lane of 2010. For me, all I have in mind now is.. I'm reaching 30 very soon. Am I ever going to do anything with still being single? I never thought this question will ever ever hit me. Come on.. I'm an artist and a hippie.. Life is suppose to be fun, and passionate about. Not .. married life. Though I love kids, but that'd mean I will be working my ass off and being grumpy just to lay another plate of koko krunch on the breakfast table the next morning. But if I don't think about it, I'd probably end up old, grumpy and preparing my own pathetic death bed. Oh god, I can't even imagine buying my own coffin, and probably have my neighbours check on me everyday to see if i'm still alive.

Well, that is life. And that is what everyone goes through, no?

Whatever it is.. life is not only in control by God, but He gave each and everyone of us the power to make decisions. And its all in our hands. I hope you and I, everyone of us will have a wonderful 2011 and pledge to have no regrets 12 months later from now. Despite any circumstances we're in, always remember "the best is yet to come". And it could be just tomorrow.

Cheers.

xxJoey

Ken art

2010-12-07T11:58:00.001+08:00

I really like this picture i took of Ken when I brought him on the KL hop on & hop off tour. ;)

busy busy busy

2010-12-06T11:49:00.000+08:00

My Etsy shop is now up! Though there arent much stuffs in there yet, but its officially running now. Just give me some time to fill up my shop. Visit: sakaicentric.etsy.com.

I've been ~~jobless~~ freelancing for 2 months now. Spending most of the time on Sakai centric and spreading the news about my services. Things are slowly picking up now. At one point, I was so free, now the full course meal spread across my dining table is so much, I worry I might not be able to cope!

Switching back to hands on jobs from management is so different. When you manage, you tell people how to manage the time and jobs. That's much easier. When I need to manage my own time and jobs now, I find it rather suffocating. LOL.

Sakai Centric will be setting up a booth at Tropicana City Mall today (6th Dec, Mon) at 7pm for Christmas Sales! If you're going to be there, drop by and say hi. Find me at the outdoor area of Artista Restaurant & Bar.

Alright back to work and rush rush rush!

:x Joey

Striving to survive

2010-11-27T07:52:00.002+08:00

What have I been up to after not being able to be in Melbourne right now... I'd been putting all my focus on Sakai Centric - my blogspot selling mostly handmade items.

I guess its also good that I didn't manage to go to Australia. Sometimes I think God does lead us in a way we can never have imagined. When the plan did not work, and I obviously need a plan B to keep myself surviving, I spent a lot a lot of time thinking and planning. Some plans worked, some didn't. To cut the story short, amidst the so call "soul searching", I finally come to respond to the call in my heart on textile design.

I've been (since college days) always thinking that I can make good use of my background in graphic design and fashion to create something. Unfortunately in Malaysia, textile design is not as popular as ... Australia. Or should I say, basically arts related stuffs are not popular in Malaysia. So when I'm forced to do something to get some income, naturally I do what i love most. So I banked on textile and crafts, things I enjoy making with my hands... and ofcourse brain. Then, sell them at the flea market.

So far... I don't have any sales.. which is worrisome and I'm starting to panic, since I still have bills to pay. Fingers cross, fingers cross.. the best is yet to come.

Here are some of the stuffs I've been working on:

Check out more of my work at SakaiCentric! Etsy shop is setting up!

Journey to the south : end

2010-10-28T06:22:00.001+08:00

If you are wondering why I did not continue writing about my preparation to Australia, the reason is because I didn’t make it.

I ended my last post saying I was going to collect my Ielts result. I did ok – band score 7. I was expecting an 8 to be honest, but that’s only because I don’t know what is the standard to be an 8.

Immediately after I collected my result, I went to the Australian embassy filled with excitement and anticipation, accompanied by my bestie, Angel. But to my disappointment, they told me the application for this visa had already closed way back in June. Each year, Australia only allows 100 applicants from Malaysia to visit the country under this work and holiday visa. I was just careless and overlooked the details saying it has already been closed and the next opening would be in July 2011.

Just there and then, I was lost. And I’m still lost. Or worse than being lost.

I haven’t decide yet whether I should just apply again in July next year, or should I just get a job that pays well and I live well. I really don’t know. Everyone’s saying I’m just confused and I don’t even know what I want in life. Well, I have given up arguing about this. Yes, I am confuse, and life is just not the way you want it to be.

A moment ago, there was a tiny voice in me that says: I’m tired of fighting for a living. I just want to live it and enjoy what life contains. Is that possible? Try having to pay for your car loan, bills and living expanses… I just need to bounce off this imaginary life I have in my heart and face this f**king ugly reality of life.

Joey

Journey to the South: 5

2010-10-08T05:30:00.000+08:00

My sleeping time had gone hay wire. For the past.. gosshh.. I don’t remember… lets say for a few days, I’d been sleeping at 7am and wake up 12 hours later for dinner, then the evil creative mind of mine turns alive a lil bit pass midnight. I knoww.. its bad and probably jeopardizing my going talready jeopardized health. But it wont be for long. If its gonna help me do well in my portfolio, I don’t mind to juggle with this pattern for another week or so.

In the midst of all that, honestly, I did think about calling the whole plan off. Its just too stressful. Its not the preparation that is stressing me out, but the thought of having to spend 3 times the currency to kick start my life anew! And ofcourse the part where I need to familiarize with a new culture, the way people talk, the way a company runs or how people deal with issues will be so much different from my already fixed and accustomed mindset. The fact that I wont be able to drive into town or wherever I feel like in the middle of the night just to take a breather. The freedom of getting a bite at the 24 hours Indian Muslim restaurants we call Mamak. Which the same dish, can be called a proper meal, or so it can be light bite.

Anyway, previous post I was talking about going to the consular office. Before that, I visited the Commissioner of Oath which I googled up (if you’re looking for one, try to get one on the list with a contact number, because I did end up at one which office is not even open anymore and another who isn’t at the office). Basically, I think commissioner of oath is not a full time job. They just have the license to sign your forms. So call before you go is the advice. So, at her office in SS2 Petaling Jaya, which was partitioned in a corner of a stationary shop filled with chicken rice fragrant, I showed a lady in her 50s wearing a casual loose tank top my application forms. She looked and signed, and asked if I need her to certify my photocopied passport and ID as well. Being first time applying, I didn’t know, so I blurted “ermm… I guess so.. sorry I don’t know” and chuckled. She smiled and stamped with a signature with my name filled into that column. Before we finish this business, a middle aged man popped in, sat down and started a casual conversation about the food smell. I thought that was very… impolite. But he seemed to be a regular as she took some forms from him and started signing on them while I sat there just at the other corner of the table not knowing what should I be doing next. She then looked at me and paused, which I did the same back to her. Then she said “6 copies altogether… that’s 24 ringgit”. Oh right… that’s what I should be doing now. –_-

BTW.. if you’re wondering why was there 6 pages, and if you’ve gotten information otherwise, its because I have 2 sets of the same document which it is advised to submit. Previously I checked with another Commissioner of Oath through email, it was told that the charges for that would be RM4 only. So, I’m guessing, actually I just need to get ONE copy stamped and signed. The photocopied passport and ID is not necessary. And I can always photocopy the signed form so I don’t need to pay another RM4! Oh well… Its only for once, I don’t mind.

With my body heating up and getting a little tired under the sun from a sleepless night, I drove 35 minutes to Putrajaya, the consul's office to submit the forms for a LETTER OF GOOD CONDUCT (that is required to submit together for the application of Visa). The office lunch break is at 12:30pm. I reached at 12:25 after being lost in that dead town and my GPS is not working properly. Fortunately I did manage to hand in the forms, but unfortunately, I can only collect them after they reopen from the break at 2pm. I was hungry, so I decide to grab a bite somewhere around. Like I said, it’s a dead town. A humongous dead town with the most spectacular architecture in Malaysia, which I couldn’t find even a single restaurant after a 30minute drive. Well, I didn’t go very far, cuz its very difficult to find my way back as the roads there are very confusing and I’m not familiar with it too. One missed junction will lead you to a 5km drive to get back. Putrajaya is just a plain waste of money of the nation. I have story to talk about that if I decide to write about it next time.

At 2 pm, I returned to the office and find a long long queue waiting to get a number. I still have my number which runs with the application, so I need not get a new number. I walked straight into the hall feeling like a VIP instead of queuing up with the rest and took a seat. The counters reopen, and I waited for my turn. However the numbers were ahead of mine. And it keeps going up and not returning to call my number. Even the people from the queue are being called. I find it suspicious, if I was actually suppose to get a new number. So sheepishly, I went back to queue for 10 minutes and got a blank confused stare from the receptionist. She said I can just go straight to the counters to ask for my letter. ……………….. I don’t know how customer services are like in other countries, but I do know Malaysia is definitely the worse place for that sorts. Customer service officers in all sectors are generally just not helpful and give clear directions. In this incident, I was just asked to come back at 2pm to get the letter, but they should have just gave a little bit better instructions like telling me to come straight to the counter. Anyway, this is just a small matter, but it’s the rest of the services in the country that makes me judge them into the same category of incompetency.

Now to confirm my previous post, yes, one may get the LETTER OF GOOD CONDUCT within an hour, or probably just within 30 minutes. Maybe try avoiding the lunch break hours.. that’s all. And btw, the fee is RM20 only.

I slept through the day yesterday and didn’t do anything at all. I was suppose to send my documents, my certs, and bank statement to make a copy for my own keeping. And I was suppose to visit my bike shop to sell my roof top bike rack and get some stuff for the cycling trip with my dad next week. Guess I’ll need to do all that today.

In just 2 more hours, I’ll be collecting my IELTS result from IDP! I’m so excited about it. I really want to know how much I’ve scored. And of course alongside that thought, I’m praying I’d better pass the requiring score band. Or else, there wont be use for applying the visa anymore. I would have to pack up my naïve dreams and stay put in this country. God will bless! After collecting the result and making copies of all that said above, I’ll head straight to the Australian embassy to apply! After all the preparation, this is it.. I’ve waited for 3 weeks just to get all the things I need for this application.

Now.. all the best to me~~!

Journey to the South: 4

2010-10-06T10:20:00.001+08:00

This will be a quick update.

I spent the entire night working on my portfolio 2011 to look for a job in Australia. So far so good. Updated 30 pages. Guess there is another 30 pages to go.

I’m a bit tired, but not thaaaat tired. So I decide to go to commissioner of oath to get a signature, then to the consular’s office in Putrajaya to get the “letter of good conduct” done up by today. Well, they say it can be done in a day. Lets hope for that.

IELTS result will be out by Friday morning. I need to get all the documents ready, so that I can visit the Australian Embassy for the application right after I collect my results. Yes, high hopes that I’ll pass with flying color!

Wish me luck~

Journey to the south: 3

2010-10-05T02:15:00.001+08:00

Its been a fruitful day. I’d allllways love Mondays because I get very productive. I don’t understand what is Monday blues.

In continuation of my preparation to the south, today I’ve been running about under the hot sun to get some things settled. It all started after I had a very quick lunch with Angel, my bestie.

First stop: I visited the doctor for some check up. Heard medical fees in Aussie is very high. So I might as well get treated for whatever sickness I might have before I go. *grins*

Then headed to Uptown to settle my bank and card stuffs. Thank goodness mom mentioned about getting my bank statement certified by the bank with a bank stamp and signature (because she had to do that on her Japan trip 2 weeks ago). Or else I’d have gone all the way to the Australian Embassy and return with all my incomplete forms.

Then went next door to CIMB to pay up my credit card bill, and requested to cancel hard copy statement, since I wont be around to receive them. I’m fine with just doing online banking. Got informed by the customer service officer that I can just go to the bank’s website and request for it (both online banking application and cancellation of hard copy statement). But… I found out it doesn’t work that way! There’s still one step to do before I can get an online banking account, which is to get my PIN number from the ATM machine. Erm.. I didn’t have a PIN number for my credit card either. So I had to call them to mail me one. So how do you request for online banking service at CIMB bank?

step 1: Get your PIN number from the ATM (for online banking registration)

step 2: Log on to http://www.cimbclicks.com.my/ Register as a first time user and follow the instructions.

I have my Touch & Go card linked to my CIMB credit card for auto-reload service. But since I wont be using the card anymore, I figured might as well just cancel it and redeem whatever value I still have in the card. Then, I found out from CIMB that I do not cancel this card through CIMB, but through Touch & Go. I was a little bit confused, because both CIMB and Touch & Go logos are on the card, and I first registered it and was issued to me by CIMB. Oh well, just so you know if you’re using that Zing Touch & Go card linked to your credit card. So what CIMB did was cancel my auto-reload service. And I called up Touch & Go to cancel my card.

From the conversation with Touch & Go, they told me they cannot terminate this card unless they have instructions from CIMB. WTH? So yes, I felt like I got thrown back and forth between both of them. But I have to say if a bank customer service officer is helpful and nice, Touch & Go’s customer service officer is splendid! Usually in the many calls I make to card centres or banks or any other service provider companies, I’d end up feeling even more helpless than before. So, instead of not knowing how to go about it, since CIMB asked me to request T&G to terminate my card, which they say they can only do so with instructions from the bank, T&G suggested to me that CIMB has only canceled the auto-reload, but my card is still active. So instead of terminating it, which a RM5 of processing fee is charged, she suggested I just carry on using the card until the credit is finished. Done deal with that.

Later, I walked a 2km to Public Bank, also at Uptown. The same thing, I asked from them to cancel my hard copy statement. But the customer service representative told me they cant do that on their end. She’s kind enough to call the card centre for me though. So I talked to another lady over the phone, and got it settled!

On a lighter note, I promised Angel to go for a short holiday break to celebrate her recent graduation with flying colors. I did mention before, she’s very very bright – Distinction in Diploma in Fashion & Retail Design, nominated to represent Malaysia in the Delphic Games in Poem/Creative writing category; then her recent completion of yet another full scholarship degree in business & marketing.. or was it finance? And she scraped it off with a 1st class honours and awarded the best overall student! Yes! it worth a great beach celebration. But unfortunately, I’m pretty tied up with all the preparation now and getting really broke because of this. She understands, but I’ll try to pull off something for her.

I’m having flu now, so had a nap in the evening, had dinner at 9pm, and had been cleaning up my bills, documents, and junks that had been potato couching for a loong loooong time. It took me 5 hours just to sort out my bills, throw unwanted documents, rearrange my book shelf, and clean up 2 tiny drawers. Never despise small things huh.. they take up a lot of time to get sorted.

Downing 100 plus like waterfall now to get rid of the flu.

I must get better instantly to work harder tomorrow~~

Journey to the South: 2

2010-10-03T11:59:00.001+08:00

*Journey to the South is a log on my preparation in moving to Australia from Malaysia*

Now, where did I write off?

Right. Here’s what I’ve done in the past few days:

1. Renewed my driving license for 2 years. You must be wondering why am I still renewing my license if I’m gonna leave the country. Well, nothing is certain just yet. Who knows nothing works out and I might have to return?

2. Decided to pay up RM1400 for the penalty to terminate my Blackberry contract. Why the penalty? Because I signed the contract of 2 years with Digi_Telco, but its only 6 months I’ve been using it. Annddd.. instead of returning the blackberry phone to my company, I will purchase from them. Because I realized the RM1400 I’m paying is actually for the balance of the full amount of the phone, excluding the discounted price my company had paid for the deal of the contract which is RM699. So, if I am paying 1400 for the penalty (which is for the phone), y not top up another 700 right?

3. Visited my dad’s regular bike shop on Friday to get his bike tube, and get Toruk serviced. At the same time, I spent the time waiting to survey closely every single item that is in the shop to quench my thirst as a shopaholic. I finally found something that is useful! Which dad insisted on paying, reasoned I’d have to spend a lot this month on the migration.

I had been carrying a few allen keys separately wrapped in a plastic bag, which is so uncool and not to mention, I might easily drop one into the drain or left it at the road if I were to face an emergency on the road, since the color of a cheap allen key is the same color as the tar. So.. I’m very happy! They cost RM89 ok… don’t play play.

4. Also swapped lap top with my dad. Since I returned my lap top to the company, and my old lap top which my mom was using decides to act up right when I took it back. Dad’s lap top is actually pretty awesome, even though its not a Mac. But it is sufficient enough for me to work! Spent the whole night upgrading it to Wins7.

5. Another heart-attack-why-now incident arose. I received a letter both in PJ home and my parent’s place from the lawyers, indicating that I haven’t pay up my overdue land line phone bill which accumulated to RM1315! Honestly, I don’t remember when and which phone number it was. And that’s how it goes around here in Malaysia. These companies including government departments like to show up after a decade or 2 and accusing you of some unsettled bill then emphasizes that court order will be sentenced if no payment is made still. Well, I’ve received numerous letters like that in the past, so I made sure everything is settled and not end up in the jail. But why now again? When my budget is so tight and conserving for Aus?! And tell me who keeps receipts of payment from a decade ago!? So how am I suppose to proof then? I seriously don’t know whether it’s a trick or I just plainly forgotten about it. pfffft.

The worse thing about these telecom companies are, they don’t terminate your number even though its inactive, and is being replaced by other owners. They let it run and charge you monthly without your notice. I probably owe them just RM20! yea.. hell with it.

Aight, I’m gonna take a nap… and start clearing up unwanted stuffs from my house and get things sorted for the rest of the day.

Have a great Sunday peeps!

Final countdowns

2010-10-02T02:01:00.000+08:00

Great. I get to update my blog once again.

The funny thing is, everytime when i decide to update my blog, its the end of a major drama in my life that lasted for a couple of months.. or maybe a year. And so it is the same for this time.

I've finally put down my dreams to pursue whatever there is in my own country. I'm tired of being able to predict what's in the fashion industry and tired of trying, though knowing what the respond will be - which is non.

Some have said that it could be my personal problem that I find it difficult to fit into a situation or live in harmony with certain people. Others would agree with me that I've made the right move in leaving a certain place, or company, a business partner or friend. I think it all works both ways and it is quite heart-breaking having to leave. But, that's the good I find about myself - I am not afraid of changes. Is that one of the trait of a hippie?

Yes, finally announcing my farewell to Malaysia and 'Good Day Mate' OZ.

I can imagine myself popping by a fashion company with my portfolio and being asked "why did you choose to come to OZ? Why fashion in OZ and not Europe?" I honestly do not have an answer for that. OZ is not the best place for a promising fashion career to start with. I've never heard anyone discuss within groups or classroom or in a design team about retrieving inspiration from an OZ designer or the trend in the country. I guess the reason I chose OZ is because I have connections, even though non of them are from this industry. But at least I know i wont die, and when I almost do, I believe they'd lend a helping hand. It is maybe considered to be a safer and more secure place for me to start all anew again.

I did not plan to announce my leaving until when I board the plane. But I want to keep this journey into my journal and for people who are thinking of moving to OZ to get some idea of what they'll go through in the process of consideration and application.

Being said that, I consider myself as a Malaysian lucky to have this partnering programme with Australia on the 'Work & Travel Visa'. It was once scraped off due to the overwhelming migrant to the country. But has in the past 1 or 2 years revived again.

The 'Work & Travel Visa' eligibility is 30yo or below, have sufficient fund of AUD5000 in the bank, and a valid passport. That's it! Ofcourse not to say a clean record with the government, needless to say. Due to the working part of the visa, a proof of English language proficiency needs to be presented. Therefore the Ielts test is part of the application.

Here's what I've done so far with the application:
Ielts (International English Language test system)
Which costed RM550 at IDP. If i'm not mistaken, British Council charges RM570. But I heard they have 100 free online hours for practice. If you need to sit for "how to take IELTS test" classes, you'll need to pay RM300 for 4 classes.

In Ielts, there are 2 test category - Academic or General Training.
Academic is for people who wants to further their studies, or for professional workers i.e. psychologist, doctor..etc. In my case, General Training is sufficient, which test is base on general workplace interactions.

Results will be out on the 13th day after the exam. Mine would be on the 8th of October. The band score requirement for my category is 6 (the band score range is 1 - 9). If i fail, there wont be refund, and I'd need to pay up and sit for another test. Test dates can be found at Ielts website for Malaysia (usually 3 days in a month). Speaking test is 15 minutes on the same day or a different day 3 days before or after the paper test, according to their arrangement.

Before I get my result, I need to find a commissioner of oath to sign my application for "letter of good conduct" which will be submitted to the government. I'll update that when its done, so I wont get the information wrong.

On the other parts of my arrangement, I'd been stressing out with quite a number of things. I had to terminate my blackberry service that contract is not due yet and pay up my penalty of RM1400. No transfer of user is allowed or transfer of number. I just gotta suck it all up. On the sadder note, I'll have to surrender the phone back to my company. My lap top died immediately right after I surrendered the company lap top back. Drama huh? Renew my driving license extending to a couple of years, just in case I might come back. Cancel the hard copy statements of my credit cards and apply for online banking. Settle my 8 month old car in custody of my mom. Try to sell off my roof top bicycle rack. Get my road bike packed to ship to OZ. Clear out every thing from my room into the smaller room, in case my brother decides to rent it out. Re-polish my portfolio and get it printed and compiled for my walk-in interviews. Meet up with a couple of close friends to bid farewell, just in case I don't come back anymore. Try to get a couple of freelance jobs in this jobless month for some cash to pay up my car and other loans by end of the month. The list just goes on.

Its such a quick leave. The idea came up about just a month ago. And I'm now all preparing for the departure a month later, hopefully, if the application is successful. I somewhat feel very irresponsible to my family's feelings. Even though flying cross country is not very difficult now a days, and very affordable. But I won't be seeing my family so often anymore. I will definitely miss them very very much. So, Dad Mom and I decide to do a cycling trip, me and my dad, south ways about 400-500km to spend some quality time together. I think it'd be fun!

Til my next update, do pray that everything will be smooth for me and my family.

Luv

what's on now!

2010-08-22T02:10:00.003+08:00

I am now a Genius

2010-08-09T23:57:00.002+08:00

Alright, I got converted into a Genius. But I don't see what's the biggie. obviously I'm not use to, Hyet I Still type faster than write. And not to mention typing is much more effortless! Yep, just write that much and I'm already tired. ok.. stop here... how. This is how my Genius looks like

yea... I know. You must be saying "Dude! this tool is for drawing! Not writing." Yes! yes." bought it for that purpose too! But its not any easier either

The Hero

2010-08-09T14:16:00.002+08:00

My dad's in the news again!

His cycling for charity journey starts today. By now, he's already touched down Bangkok. And work his way down south to KL, Malaysia.

He'll be stopping at 8 cities for the partnered event. And on his 2nd last stop, he'll drop by my place where he'll be greeted by 80 - 100 cyclist. From there, they'll all cycle a 50km distance to a town nearby for a Christian Carnival. I'll take part in the 50km, which is very much what I can do to support.

He'll be ending his 2000km journey back at my hometown church, where he submits his charity ride results.

By reading this, don't go and scout him down and rob him.. he wont be carrying cash you dummy!

[click to enlarge]

My Hero

2010-08-03T23:43:00.000+08:00

Mom had been calling my dad "My Hero" ever since he found his love for cycling, and eventually toured around Peninsula Malaysia in 18 days alone.

This time, Dad's really become a hero. He'll be flying north to Bangkok, and work his way down back to Seremban. About 2000km. But not just that, in conjunction with his ride, he'll be doing a charity by collecting donations from town to town, for an NGO.

Here is the press release.. in chinese though.

[click on image to enlarge]

Employer says: "why is everyone so forgetful?"

2010-08-03T18:06:00.001+08:00

What if you're being accused of forgetfulness when the accuser is forgetful as well.

Maybe he or she accuse you of being forgetful of what he has told you before, but the fact is he actually forgot to tell you.

If your boss accuse you of being forgetful, and even tell her friends you are forgetful, but your reason is because he or she has passed down all the work from personal to corporate, until you cannot cope with so much details that you let one of two things slipped, how will you feel?

Or even if they did not slip, but because there were just so much work to do, that you have to prioritize the more important ones, but the boss asked for that task that you have put to do later (obviously its not done yet), and accuse you of being forgetful. How'd you feel?

If you're a listener, I'm sure your answer will be just to explain to the boss.

But if you are in this situation everyday, and when you're so pressed down with a mountain load and weight of stress and jobs, i can tell you, you don't even feel like explaining, but just get on with a focused mind. If you try to argue with it, you break your focus, and eventually you need to start building the momentum from zero again.

I read in a book that says "learn to listen to your staffs" & "learn how your staffs get motivated". Many times, its not how an employer wants them to work, but instead what is their style that the employer can accommodate with to make them more efficient and productive to help.

So.. like what the employer said "why is everyone so forgetful? The answer is maybe he's let out all his jobs, that he's the only one so free to remember all the tinie minie not important stuffs while everyone else is racing with time, playing with fire, and risking lives.

PPPFFFFFTtTTtTT!!!!!!!!!!!!

New family member

2010-07-28T01:31:00.000+08:00

If you do not know. I like to name my toys...
My bike is Toruk Makisia, named after the bird from Avatar.
My camera is Da Big Black Bluck.. cuz its just so big and clumsy.
My soft toy Chinese tiger is Gin-Ger... named after my pet cat Ginger.. but its Tiger's GER = Gin-Ger.
and many more..

today, another new family member joined! Her name is Neytiloo!!!

its a mini mannequin for idea testings before making a garment on a life-size mannequin, if u don't know what it is. Wish I had gotten a dozen of them!

Body Clock went haywire

2010-07-22T09:04:00.000+08:00

It happened ever since I came back from Hong Kong.

Oh... opss... Yea... i'm sorry, i just remembered I was suppose to blog about my Hong Kong trip huh?
Well, I had been reaaaally busy after that trip. Its a work trip anyways.. not holiday. But had been pleasureable too.

Anyway.. after I came back, I'd been having trouble sleeping in at night. EVERY NIGHT, I'd sleep at 12am.. and automatically wakes up at 3-4am.. and wont be able to get back to sleep anymore.

Though I could still pull it off at work, and still be very passionate and dedicated.. but.. its really torturing.

So.. it happened again last night. I have no idea what's wrong with my body clock! Hong Kong is in the SAME time zone as Malaysia! Its definitely NOT jetlag!!

ZzzzZZZzzzzz..... booooooo...

Priceless birthday present

2010-07-01T03:28:00.002+08:00

I want to blog. But i have endless stream of birthday wishes and chats i can’t cope with, so I shall paste my chat here (*haha):
joeysia says: i received a really... priceless gift today
Elycia says: What gift?
joeysia says: self realisation. the problems i've had with.. god, work, relationship, family, friends, life, and dreams
Elycia says: Does this mean that you are no longer lost?
joeysia says:well..
not exactly..
but a light shed from a far away door..
which is leading me towards it

[here are some privatized topic not suitable for public. The point is.. I’ve been quite depressed at work and in life, then…]

joeysia says:
so i bummed around mamak opposite my apartment and msn my friend.
to my surprise.. he confronted me even though he said i will get moody if he tells me but he doesn't care
i said i have no more energy for any emotions now
so he continued mercilessly
but he made me realize my problem..
the one that i've been circling around all these years
conclusion is.. i'm trying to build my own castle

Elycia says:
Okay.
What does that mean?

joeysia says:
meaning.. i want my own ideal life.. the one i have in my mind or in my imagination. I have a set of thinking or philosophy to what my life should be.
that relates to family friends god work...etc
so, when my life is not going the way i want it to be, i snap
i told my friend about how complicated human is. And I don't want to be a human if i can choose. I even prayed while driving, telling God that maybe some souls aren't mean to be sent to earth to become human. but just stay in heaven
i don't know how to deal with human, including myself as a human.
so my friend had it in my face saying that people are not complicated. People who thinks others are complicated because they themselves is complicated.

Elycia says: :p

joeysia says:
then i thought.. but i did tried to be simple.. think simple.. and just love life..
but u guess what was the problem that it didnt work

Elycia says: tutut <—her way of saying wth

joeysia says:
i was trying really hard to make the simple life simple
which results in a very complicated-simple life.

I don’t know if you have the same experience as i do. But just like what my friend told me, just love NOW. I have a great ideal life i want to make in a small town managing a simple backpacker’s hostel. However, the happiness in life is not dependant on what your future is going to turn out to be, but in the very now that you have. :)

This is really a priceless gift and the best one I’ve got in my 28years of living.

Creating a signature for Windows Live Mail

2010-06-20T03:41:00.003+08:00

If you’re an outlook express user, or now widely replaced by windows live mail, you must know that these mail programs do not create nice funky signatures.

When i say funky, it doesn’t mean superbly colorful, or with witty fonts and such. But something that is at least better than just text!

For quite sometime I use “Wisestamp” with my Gmail (which my business mail is all linked into this account). Wisestamp is a firefox add on gadget. I really like the signature that it creates. I can put in links, images of my logo, change fonts and use different font size for my name, title and other informations.

But to create a signature in outlook or windows live mail, you CANNOT do such things but plainly text! Not even pre-fix the font sizes so that I don’t have to change them every time I write a mail. Not so smart huh? And ‘signature’ is not like a Pluto-science thing.

So after spending some time reading up from other web sources for a way to create a signature exactly like the one I did with Wisestamp, I finally figured out something easy. (Yes, I may be a little slow to know this, but I believe it will be useful).

Wanna know how?
Okay, first off, I found a site that says – in the create a new mail window, attach an image, and optionally you may insert your text. But I have no idea why, in Windows Live Mail, when you attach an image, there is a transparent box around it, which takes up a lot of empty space. If I want my text to be just closely underneath the image, it cannot be done!

So, here is how I do it. Create a new mail in HTML format (not plain text format) –> type in your signature (i.e.: name, title, address, contact number….); in my case, I’ve also inserted a horizontal line, and the address is below the line, centralized.

Next step: save your mail as HTML and close window.

Now.. to create your signature. Go to Options –> signature –> create new signature –> choose FILE in edit signature –> then click browse to put in the file you just saved earlier on.
So everytime when you write a mail, just click insert signature, and it will be there.

Okay.. i know.. i haven’t figure out yet how to put an image that doesn’t have a huge transparent invisible border. But for the moment being, I’m happy with a signature that is not PLAIN TEXT! pffffft!

Got rid of Vista… finally.

2010-06-19T03:59:00.001+08:00

Since I’ve been working on some blog projects lately, I have to scrape and dig in any possible source to find the right script, program, softwares, etc, to support my blog.. if not to be tech savvy.

*thinks.. I now need to download an offline dictionary*

So having spent days and nights working on 2 lappies and a desktop, with all 3 different versions of windows – xp, vista, and windows 7 – I am so gawd damn happy with my new windows 7 replaced on my vista lappie! *which i just completed the installation and set up a minute ago*

I maybe a little late to know, but I just have to say I’m really impressed with windows 7! I like the ‘snipping tool’ a lot!! Plus the few user friendly programs installed – windows live writer for blogging, windows live movie maker for some slides, picasa for imaging, photoshop for photo editing, dictionary.com for words – my lappie is like a complete scrapbook creator cum organizer! far out!

Have a look at what i snipped

The funky desktop background and windows live writer on this blog! I’m gonna stop complaining about my lappie now.. And its working so much faster now! I LOVE SPEED!

Learn more about Windows 7 *click*

……………… but I’m still stealing glance at mac pro. *heeee*

Very busy creating blog

2010-06-18T02:32:00.000+08:00

Yes.. so busy ~~blogging~~ creating blogs.

Its really fun to brainstorm for ideas and inject some little marketing instincts that i have for a couple of blogs.

No, i'm not a professional blogger. But i just love to make blogs.
I have no idea what-so-ever to draw attention to them, but I'm learning...

When I start, it really sucks me deep down inside. So can I consider I've been living in blogger's stomach for at least 18 hours daily before it spits me out to get some rest?

Now.. i really need some rest before a new day's work pile on me again.

So, how do you like my new layout?

*Do visit my business blog - click*

Toruk Makisia

2010-06-16T09:45:00.005+08:00

I had been putting in so much passion at work today that when I call it a day at work, I was so contented.

Probably.. a little bit too much.

Usually, to unwind myself from the craziness at work, I'd go for a spin on a road bike at night at about 9 - 10pm for an hour. Why that late? Because I only leave work at 8.

I started riding early this year. All because of my father who is pretty crazy about bikes since a couple of years ago. Last year, he'd even toured around Malaysia on his bike, all by himself. It took him about 3 weeks to complete the course. He returned in charcoal color and looking thinner than ever. But the achievement and victory was beyond words.

I'd never stopped loving sports, even though I may not do them as much. But whenever I get the chance, I'll at lest go for a hike cum easy rock climbing outdoors. The mountain that I visit most of the time is the now over-clouded by visitor's Mount Tabur in Taman Melawati (Malaysia). And being the artsy fartsy personality, I really don't like to hang out in groups. 2 is perfect, 3 is acceptable, 4 and above is a NO.

So... seeing my father toured around Malaysia and seems to be having so much fun, I thought maybe I can try a shorter route during the one week festive holidays early this year. I road from my hometown Seremban, to the beach PD, and all the way to Malacca, then return to where I started off by completing about 280km. It took me 4 days, as I stopped in each town for a night. You can see the pictures in this album *click*

Ever since that trip, I've been longing to ride again.. and again... so last month, i've decided to get myself my own bike! This is how it looks like

Isn't he awesome!? I named him Toruk Makisia, after the birdie in the movie - Avatar. Actually only Toruk is taken from the movie. I made up Maki, and Sia is my surname. I like tribal stuffs.. so u see how i come about to get these sorta idea for names. :)

I'm very proud of Toruk. It's always cheered me up when I'm pounded hard by work stress. Whenever I ride him, he makes me dart forth with courage and regain my confidence. I just love him so much. Did i mention he sleeps with me? Well.. not on my bed.. but in my room! haha..

I'm looking forward to fly on a longer journey with him. Hopefully crossing countries in near future!

I LOVE YOU TORUK MAKISIA! To the many more adventures together! cling

Isn't he awesome!? I named him Toruk Makisia, after the birdie in the movie - Avatar. Actually only Toruk is taken from the movie. I made up Maki, and Sia is my surname. I like tribal stuffs.. so u see how i come about to get these sorta idea for names. :)

I'm very proud of Toruk. It's always cheered me up when I'm pounded hard by work stress. Whenever I ride him, he makes me dart forth with courage and regain my confidence. I just love him so much. Did i mention he sleeps with me? Well.. not on my bed.. but in my room! haha..

I'm looking forward to fly on a longer journey with him. Hopefully crossing countries in near future!

I LOVE YOU TORUK MAKISIA! To the many more adventures together! cling

For more information on my road bike, visit KHS Flite 750 *click*

I've been overhauled!

2010-06-15T01:58:00.002+08:00

Overhaulin' is an American automobile reality show.

If you're not a car freak like me, who knows nuts about beautiful cars, you'd probably skip that channel where its showing. I only know as far as changing my tyres, jumpstarting my car, checking the engine oil and pressure of tyres. All the basic works any boys should at least know.

Overhaulin' on the other hand, is like God-sent people for the automobile lovers. Well.. in the show's case, its not exactly for the machine lovers, but rather those who love but could never get as close as one foot near to succeed in their dreams to a big leap for that piece of "junk" they have.

Overhaulin has the best team, designers, car makers, painters, car interior designers, stereo system professionals, etc.. And the bigger pride being the speed they can break, construct and rebuild in a time as short as 7 days!

*thinking about our mechanics that takes probably 2 months to do all those*

These people.. have so much passion for overhauling cars, I'd suspect they eat, sleep, drink and of course work on car parts.They can literally change from this:

to this:

Isn't that amazing?!However, since i'm not such a car fan, the part that moved my heart most is how the people around this person who was told his car is being stolen, or tolled away by police, put together this whole show just to get his dreams to come true! The producers even went as far as arranging people in uniforms to make believe that there is no prank at all.

Ofcourse the owner of the vehicle is uttermost upset. And the people who started this idea, usually family members, even have to put up with his depression for a week! But by the end of the show, its only left with warmth, joy and shock that is beyond description, adrenaline rush, unbelievable dream come true, and of course the fantastic-awesome-fabulous made over car that couldn't worth more than a thousand American dollars. Which, value has now increased 10 times!

Then it came to me... I really have no idea how they could put up such an amazing show helping these people get their lives back.. well, in a way. It didn't just give them an asset so worthy, it has also heightened the relationship in the family. It may just be a show that seems too surreal to be happening to anyone, but even though they can probably only change one person's life per season show, there are billions who watched and get inspired.

When was the last time you and I had the idea of helping another person? Be it only one in your lifetime, or even.. your children, spouse, parents or a friend. When was the last time we actually even had the thought about it?

Just imagine how much better the quality of our lives will be if we do start to do something fair in the thoughts of others.Just this morning I had a thought that it is such a pity to the 21st century babies. They have to put up with all the nonsense of the safety of our society now. And my nieces haven't even seen domestic animals before if not for the one visit to the zoo! I mean... how pathetic is that?!

We just gotta restore all these back to how it was, by first taking the step to build a trustworthy community life again, that is totally selfless. Just like Gandhi, or mother Theresa, or any other leaders in the world, it all started with one person. And in Asia today, it is Pst Kong Hee.

Something for me to digest in my lah lah land tonight.

Good night world!

How can i end with not giving credit to chip foose, backbone of the show. *click*
To know more about Overhaulin' *click*
Sent from my BlackBerry® smartphone

The Heritage Room, Melaka

2010-06-13T22:37:00.003+08:00

I'm sitting in The Heritage Room, Melacca writing this.

Micky and Sharon opened this mix brand boutique about one month ago. I was suppose to be part of the project in the first place, which didn't happen due to some reason.

Unlike any other shops on Jonker walk that promises a wiiiide variety at a cheap price to choose from, or the original handmade pieces that is so unique but just not quite up to the quality.

Here at Heritage Room, we can all find something that will give us an artistic adrenaline rush - be it the fine carvings on the door panel that is more than a hundred years old, the antique Vespa that is at least 40 years old, the antique wooden shelves and cabinets that once belonged to a Nyonya grandmother. Ofcourse, the focus here is on the 5 major MALAYSIAN designer brands carried here. They are non other than our very own Micky Tan, Sharon Ann, Pink Jambu, Gadis Manis, and a small collection from our late Puan Sri Endon.

Yes! Everything's by our own Malaysian babies! And even better... MADE IN MALAYSIA!

Quality shouts loud around here. Creativity rages! So by saying that, you would probably want to expect the price to be a little bit higher than what you see at Jonker street. But I can promise you they are nothing near to what you can find across the street.

Designers from the 5 brands constantly look for new ideas and inspiration. Even though they've been around for a bit, but everything I see in this shop has never existed before this time. They've put in all effort, heart and passion into creating something new and creative all the time.

Allow me to show you the store now :)

The Heritage Room night time

Bits of Sharon Ann

Bits of Pink Jambu

Bits of Nyonya Kebaya by the late Puan Sri Endon

Bits of Gadis Manis

Last but not least... Bits of Micky Tan

Alllrrriiighhht.. that's a lot to take in at one go. I still have more pictures, but it's taken me 2 hours just to get all these up with that stupid internet speed that I have... And its supposedly upgraded! urgh!

If you happen to come by Melacca, do drop by the shop yea!?
Where? Just next to Baba House (its a hotel, if you don't know). Heeren Street (The street next to Jonker).
click here for map

That's all from me for now. Will talk more about Malacca later.

Old friend's week

2010-06-12T02:23:00.001+08:00

Yes.. it is an unplanned "old friend's week" for me this week.
Just so happen to either bump into some friends that I last saw at least 3 years ago, or a random hi on bbm and msn that ended up with a meet up for lunch.

It does feel good to meet up with old friends and catch up with "what have you been doin all these years" stories. which also came with walking down the memory lane of other old friends and followed by jokes on all the stupid things we do when we were "younger".

I met up with Abel Teh, my music director on Wednesday for lunch at Nirvana Bangsar. Haven't seen him in a couple of months. And i truly truly miss him, as he had always been my inspiration and a wise mentor. Unfortunately it was just a short less than an hour lunch meet up, as I didn't want to be out of office so long that I become a bad example to staffs.

Thursday, met up with AnnaDaBanana. One that walked me through thick and thin. A friend that i truly loved dearly.

Friday, meet up with HiuDaSissy, after all those years of once in a blue moon "i-just-thought-about-you-how-r-u" messages, but never get to meet up. And both of us decide that before we turn 30, we MUST see how YOUNG we still are in our 20s before its too late. Well, seems that she's gotten a bit more wrinkle that I do.... isk isk isk

Yes.. its a she. ahahahaa

HiuDaSissy was my college mate whom I cliqued right on the 2nd day of school, and became one-panty-2-person-wear friend for years!

Haha.. just kidding. But we did share very good friendship and enjoyed our emo times listening to Mary J Blige "No More Drama" on MTV at a local coffee shop behind our college. And the many nights I slept over at her place to do assignments, until her mom thought we're together.

We had a debating conversation about how to define what is mamak food and indian food over dinner. She said its a debate she's been having with her friend. And I still can't believe HiuDaSissy doesn't know mamak stands for Indian Muslim.

Well.. not that she claims she is Malaysian, reasoning she used to live in Hong Kong for 6 years. That's like 10 years ago! pfft.

Then, after dinner and walking around abit in Telawi area (for her to fulfill her deep craving to peek a glance at the football playing on the TV in the pubs and cafes that we walk pass), we settled at a mamak for a drink to end our night out. There, I bump into Stephie! Another old friend who modeled for my fashion show in 2007!

I took a paparazi shot of her in the background. She was with Willy Wilson. Had a good and very very short catch up with her, and said hi to Willy, and also tried to draw the picture of how I know him from my friend's pictures, and connections.

I just love meeting old friends. Often, it comes around to remind myself of what I have gone through in the past. And followed by what I have achieve thus far.

None of us have changed a bit. I don't mean it in a bad way.. or meaning we did not improve. But you are just you, after 10 years, you still have that... signature character in you. So that's what I realize through a week of old friend's reunion.

As I part with HiuDaSissy past midnight, tailing behind her car all the way back to PJ, I introduced my friend Ken by waving it at the window when i drove pass her before we take our separate ways.

She then sms me "that is Ken..... Me!" Oh yea.. i almost forgot this nickname of hers 9 years ago. hahahah
Ken sits in shadowfaux keeping him accompanied day and night. Very loyal friend.

And there goes the day.
Hope yours is great too!

Signing off with the Omaticayan howl~
AOo AoO AooOOooo

J

Unleash the potential of your clothes

2010-06-11T10:25:00.002+08:00

I woke up this morning having the urge to dress up in white and khaki, the colors that often project simplicity, classy (if not expansive), cultured, and pureness. So, i threw some pieces of these color range on myself to find something that complements each other and myself.

I found this vest that is too oversized for me given to me by my ex-boss a few years ago. I use to wear it 'the vest way'. Honestly, the softness of the fabric, besides already being oversized, sags on me and makes me look either like a yogi, or exceeds my actual age by 40 years. Nevertheless, I know there is potential in every piece of garment, be it just a simple tank top or a vintage knitted vest like this. And this is what I tried, which I pretty much like how it looks.

There you go... front, back, closeup, and full view for your reference. If you happen to have something like that.. just werk it out. Put it around your neck, button the first button, and turn it around to find the best look it gives.

Now you know you don't need to limit your clothes huh!

We have won

2010-06-10T23:26:00.000+08:00

I opened the bible and saw this:

"I saw satan fall like lightning from heaven. Behold I give you the authority to trample on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall by any means hurt you"

To my "extended" family all across the globe, be strong through this very tough time we're going through! We'll cross over, emerging even stronger in the heart and relationship! Let's stay together in this.

Sent from my BlackBerry® smartphone

God

2010-06-07T04:09:00.000+08:00

Why does one believe in God? I don't understand.

Sent from my BlackBerry® smartphone

Vietnam

2010-05-22T11:43:00.002+08:00

My Vietnam trip.
More photos here ->

http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=215363&id=678298592&l=d5b7485bf3

http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=215377&id=678298592&l=6df0d5c595

End of trip

2010-05-19T23:58:00.000+08:00

Vietnam trip has come to an end. I made sure micky and I will have a fabulous finale. So I went for a good spa, and she went to a salsa club.

The bad thing is, such short time, I didn't get to run to a store to get souvenir! We'd even change extra money just to get some gifts! Guess its not going to a retailer here but a money exchange in KL!
This trip had been.. Ok. Compared to the many other asian country that I went. Bangkok is still the best. Ubud Bali the best place for retreat. Vietnam is just alright. Was below expectation to be honest. And the over rated ha long bay wasn't as beautiful as its been claimed. Maybe a wrong timing with the weather that doesn't justify what 'substance' this land contains. The only thing to shout about is the jump from the boat's rooftop into the sea. Which was hell of an experience. Just one time is enough. Guess I aint doing it again until I've forgotten how terrifying it feels - the pressure of water all rushing aimed and focused on my butt when I fall into the water. For a moment I thought my intestines are pumped up by salt water! That pain... Haha. But its fun. Really takes courage and no hesitation.

From the trip, I've had many thoughts about my liking. Staying at hanoi backpacker's hotel has really opened up my view on a good backpacker's joint. Its true what they say 'the best moments in your trip is th people you meet across the world'. And the best time I've had in the entire trip is meeting all those wonderful ppl from singapore, canada, UK, Hong Kong, France, Ireland... at the rooftop happy hour and barbeque party. Not forgetting the afterparty at a nearby bar just the few of us, and enjoying the night with a couple of them on the guitar and singing songs of foreign language. Really enjoyed that.

Can't think now.. To be continued.

Sent from my BlackBerry® smartphone

2010-05-15T09:53:00.000+08:00

I'm writing this entry in a bunker bus on my way from na thrang, to Hoi An, Vietnam.

A 10 day jam-packed-sardin schedule travelling from south Vietnam - Ho Chi Minh, all the way to north Vietnam - Hanoi by road is not exactly a pleasant trip and one that I'd call a retreat from the city to restructure myself and set new goals. The trip is actually quite torturing.

Day 1, Ho Chi Minh.
Day 3, Na Trang
Day 4, Hoi An
Day 6, Hue
Dau 8, Ha Long Bay
Day 9, Hanoi
And the entire day 10 will be spent at the airport fr Hanoi to HCM and back to KL.

U see, its tiring because my travel mate and I can only cover an average of 20% of one stop before we have to pack and catch the scheduled bus to the next point.

I know, u'd say do a 30 days full fledged discovery of Vietnam and her hidden beauty. Unfortunately we Malaysians just don't get that kinda luxury that I'd been longing for a long time. I'm in a country that is summer all year round - which means work all year round. No summer break, no winter break. And each worker has an average of 10 days paid leave. Of which no employers allow clearance of these leave at a one time stretch.

---------

I fell asleep halfway typing this post. Now I've arrived Hoi An. There are so many things to see, many places to visit. But I don't have time to see them all. It sucks to know you're so near yet so far from reach. Now I'm wishing that I could spend 3-4 days in one place to really discover and find inspiration. Yea.. That was the objective in the first place aint it?

I don't even want to think about how tired I still am, mentally, when I get back to msia.

But no worries. I'll find joy in what I have. Even in simple things like sun soaking at the room balcony now.. Makes me happy.

Sent from my BlackBerry® smartphone

Stressful day ends with speck of hope

2010-04-28T23:47:00.001+08:00

It was a totally crashed out day at work. I really don't know how to go on with it. I've tried numerous ways to reconcile with situations and hoping that with my position here, I may at least get a system up and get the people together. Then, i realize.. i started to win one heart, and lose faith on the other. Its a situation that I have no control over. Just because it has the highest control in this pyramid structure.

I'm here in the first place to restructure. But highest power has gone all hay wire and pulling me apart. My tantrums aint helping at all. Sigh...

On the good note, I decided to pop by my soon-to-be music school for a visit. I like how the store front is orientally decorated. Though not at its best condition, but I still like how homely it feels. Not as professional and nicely done up like Yamaha or any other music school in a brand new property, which.. often intimidates me. But this is just nice.. its as if they are humbly formed.

On the sudden pop-by, the person I wanted to see wasn't around. But a young lady teacher named Jesmine helped me around. She's very friendly and excitedly showed me the studios and explained as much as she can about the school, nested in this 2 storey shop lot.

Funny how I opened up to talk to a stranger which is really rare that I'd do something like that. And even more rare I would randomly pop by to visit. Yea.. it must be that insecurity in me? no idea.

anyway... the visit made me feel hopeful of something coming along. I'm excited to be doing music again! Well, Er Hu isn't always my choice. It was always piano, violin, cello. I can't figure out either. But like I said, the sound that this instrument makes really touched my heart. It always have... just deeper now.

So, I'm happy :)

Why er hu?

2010-04-28T00:16:00.000+08:00

Recently I just had this urge to take up er hu lesson. Between having the thought, making decision, finding a school and enrolling into the course happened so quickly. There isn't a slight chance of backing away and regret. It is that fast. But.. No.. I don't regret making this decision just yet. In fact after searching up some videos on utube on er hu performances and some clips a friend recommended, I fell even more deeply in love with er hu.

Dennis asked me why er hu on twitter. My answer would be... It makes me feel close to my heart when I listen to the melancholic sound that an er hu produces. Its such a beautiful sound that I can't help but weep over the wounds in my past that carried me forth to emerge as a strong person I am today.

I can just imagine with me holding that instrument and playing it, its like telling my story and expressing my mind far out. Just like how I do with the piano.

I don't know how far I'll go with this instrument. I'm not quite good with strings I think. Usually I'm quite well off in figuring out an instrument on my own. But my experience with a 4 stringed violin didn't turn out as easy as I expected. Moreover an er hu is 2 stringed!

Hopefully a guided course will really give me that direction that I didn't quite figure out in playing by ear.

-------------

Thomas proposed to weitieng. The news broke out on facebook with people swarming in all over with overwhelming comments and bursting joy.

I may not be in their important friends list anymore. But they remain very dear to my heart. Of all the miraculous friendship that we walked through together, and genuine love we shared, it really did plant deep inside my heart. I never get tired of telling about the unbelievable way we meet again years after we knew each other in college but yet we don't know each other... Well, maybe its not as important as I've made it sound.

At this point, I can only say congratulations. I'm happy that the both of them gets that kinda opportunity to share lives together and do wonderful things for our community.

Not all are chosen.

Not all are..

Sent from my BlackBerry® smartphone

A big sigh to my determination

2010-04-27T01:16:00.001+08:00

It was just last night that I mentioned I will be determined not to log into facebook tonight, so I may free up more time to do something useful, like drawing, do some research on my next collection, or some work. But it all turned into merely ash after I stumbled upon an Air Asia commercial on TV.

airasia

Oh... my gosh! can u believe it?! Me and family are still planning for next year's Melbourne trip. My cousin Jono is getting married. We aren't exactly invited yet.. since we stay so far, and not very close to my cousin. But I told Drew, his younger brother, when he came to visit that I'll invite myself to the wedding if i don't get an invitation. haha.. *muka tebal sial*

I've been wanting to visit Melbourne... for a long time.. that is after I come back from living there 24 yrs ago! ahhaha.. guess my age! And since so many of my friends decide that Melbs is so much better than KayEl, and refuses to step foot into Msia anymore after they went for studies... guess its me who is going there so that we may have a reunion party.

I'm gonna need a good planned out itenarary for my Melbourne trip. So many people to meet.. so many events to attend to... So for next year.. I'll have to reserve my many annual trips with travel partner Micky just for this. And I wont be able to do 4 personal trips a year like I use to anymore, as I'll be travelling for work almost every 3 months, and more frequently by end of the year.

Talking about all these trips.. Air Asia is also offering BIG DEALS FOR SMALL FARES to India.. the place that I get all my inspiration from!!!!

And for my melbourne trip, I'm planning to treat my parents well with this bunker style

Anyway.. my point is.. While i was looking through all the promotions, I was reminded of my Singapore trip end of May. So I decide to check out what are the latest promos from all kinds of airlines. From Air Asia, to Jetstar, to Tiger airways, to Firefly.. then coaches like First coach and Aeroline... it snapped almost 3 hours outta me! Just for that one ticket. Man.. ticket purchasing is hard work man.

So.. yea.. due to time restriction and my very tight schedule, I'll just have to go by the earliest flight with Tiger airways. In fact all of these less popular airlines have very very very good rates. I was jaw dropped.

A toast to the world! Travel while you can! ; )

All promotional flights recommended above are departing from Malaysia. For more details, please visit www.airasia.com.my. Booking period is from now til 9th of May. Don't miss out!

get focused

2010-04-26T04:49:00.000+08:00

Really, how many of us gets so sucked into the facebook ritual everyday?

I happen to be very addicted to FB. Not to say addicted, but ever since I'm not around the usual groups anymore, this is the only way that I can keep myself updated of their ongoings, and report to the world that I'm still alive. Its like... I have friends... but I don't really see them.

*right.. I hope that's not going to turn me into a psycho*

So... I realize I've been spending large amount of time on facebook everynight, checking out what's happening with my 8 hundred over friends that I only catch up with physically once in a blue moon. And after awhile, its taking a toll on me. I'm not as focused on my job as much as I use to. And worse is ofcourse spending that amount of time doing something that aint beneficial at all.

What's funny is that recently I've been very inspired to make a come back in the industry after disappearing for 2 years. And so the plan was to get home as quickly as possible after I clock off work, to start working on my own collection at night, which was suppose to start at 9:30pm. I drop off work at 8pm. Seems to be quite occupying and exciting. And that funny thing is, everytime when i'm ready to start work, I turn on my lap top, and my fingers uncontrollably logs in to firefox and type "facebook.com" on the address bar. And need I say somemore what happens after that?

Easily! 4 - 5 hours gone!

So, its time to break this. Since I've started vegetarian, its main motive was to self-discipline. And facebook is one of the many things that I need to put extra discipline over myself with.

............... did i mention i also check facebook on my blackberry everytime when i catch a break from work? hahahahahhahahhhahhaa....

joeysia

for the better

2010-04-25T04:07:00.002+08:00

I think I need to prepare for the bad times. Everything seems to be so well now. Not exactly in the light, but I won't consider it the worse time of my life. But we will go through the cycle of ups and downs, no? Its just the pattern of life. By saying that I need to prepare for the worse, doesn't mean that when it hits, I'll be able to jump over it, but I will be able to cross it with lesser resistance. We should all prepare for the worse and treasure our good times when we're still in it. if you're in your bad times now, the good news is, after that you'll be soaring high. Its just a pattern of life to help us grow and mature. :) My friend was saying to me last night, he thinks he's a solo. He lives in his own world. I also remember someone else said this to me b4, everyone lives in their own world, we're all a solo and we're all lonely, that makes us as one same big family. So cheer up!

Hot shoes

2010-04-09T00:38:00.000+08:00

One of my favorites. Wish they had my size

2010-04-05T01:35:00.001+08:00

2010-03-30T00:49:00.000+08:00

rising higher

2010-03-08T04:01:00.002+08:00

Looks like i'm not very good in keeping my blog updated huh?

I'm not sure if there are any readers here, since i don't get much interaction or comments anyway.

Well, what had been going on with the life of this artist for the past few months? = never been better!

I can't stop thanking God for directing me to the right path, and then I see how he bless me with all the wonderful things. But that doesn't mean the journey ends here, and its going to be all good for the rest of my life. I guess its just a mark that I've climbed up another level higher.

For all the struggle and soul searching that comes with lots of pain, it is all worth it with such fruitful outcome. I've got the new car i wanted, a blackberry phone i desired, found good and meaningful friendships, and relationship with my family, and also a very good job. Nop, I didn't continue my brand, but I'm now a partner with a well established fashion house. And more to that, I'm one of the key person in this company. Well, seeing that I'm managing 70% of the work, its tough but I enjoyed every moment of it.

Besides managing the ongoing work this firm has established, I'm given the opportunity to create a new brand, or maybe more brands in the coming months! It is exciting! It is fun! It is what I like and want to do! And I shall prepare to fly around the world to get inspired and create more wonderful clothes!

I just have a word... look unto God. He'll always direct us to walk in our destiny. Destiny is not a destination, its the journey. And I AM walking in my destiny!

Monica Quen

2010-03-08T03:47:00.000+08:00

Do join this facebook page if you're a oriental fashion lover. Link on the side bar.

The new me

2010-01-04T03:04:00.002+08:00

I Like! sooo cute

2009-12-08T01:50:00.001+08:00

Masks of Asia

2009-12-07T01:38:00.001+08:00

Information courtesy of Asian Geographic Photo Annual 2009

I'm a happy owner of the new Starbucks organizer 2010

2009-12-01T17:32:00.001+08:00

I so want this!

2009-12-01T16:57:00.001+08:00

A mind finally rested.

2009-11-24T00:37:00.001+08:00

3 years progress in searching. Finally i'm rested with an idea non can comprehend. Not even myself.

luv oriental

2009-11-23T02:05:00.002+08:00

driving in circles

2009-10-12T23:31:00.003+08:00

Have you ever driven in a car to somewhere you want to be, in somewhere that is unfamiliar? Looking at any possible landmarks that would give you the slightest comfort, knowing you're heading towards the right direction. You'd drive round and round after a long while to find yourself back at where you first started off your journey. But finally, after the much hassle, you get to your destination. A heavy piece of rock falls off your heart, patting your shoulders and giving yourself a star for being adventurous and victorious.

I have come across many who have had the same experience. The joy of driving.... to some.

I guess God works the same in our lives. We want to get to our destiny, or more well known in the term "calling". In order to get there, He would drive us round and round, into the places that we've never seen or heard of before. Into the areas of our lives that is alien to us. By the time we arrive at our destiny, we have already covered much areas that we never thought we would ever have.

As convenient as today's technology, there is GPS and google map to give aid and guide. But it isn't until we drive in to explore the unknown. So is the many advice by wise men and elders around us. They could give us a glimpse of how to do this and that through their decades of accumulated wisdom, but it isn't until we put our hands on the work that we'll cover a wider aspect of life.

As I was sitting in the car at the parking lot of my apartment, resting my mind after a long day's work, suddenly I realize how God has driven me in circles for a while to bring me to where I am today. How my character is being shaped, and what capabilities is being increased through the many unfamiliar valleys and desert that i was driven to and driving in. They may seem irrelevant at times in those situations, but I cannot deny how it has raised some standards and enlarged capacity.

Never be afraid to drive in circles. No one has the right to tell you it is wrong to do so. Get to know more roads, and you'll find yourself skipping jams and taking shorter routes in the future.

J

A perfect getaway [picture journal]

2009-10-05T02:51:00.014+08:00

Here goes the promised photos:

The Rawang highway reaching destination

A welcoming entrance to the forest

A sign just right before trekking. Well said.
In English: "This is your forest. Keep clean"

One of the decorative pieces at the entrance

There starts the journey. For every good thing, an effort or sacrifice must be made

I never count, but this fall is at the middle of the journey. There were a couple others before this which are in the safe family zone.

Then there are "branches" that looks like snake.

Here's at the foot of the thousand metre fall. Erm, yea is an exaggeration, I have no idea how high it is.. but definitely can kill.

And the many wonders in the forest

While on my way back, I met this couple, walking so slow and taking up the whole walkway, with extremely strong perfume. Erm.. not to be rude, but I'm just wondering if they have outdoor attires?

Anyway, if you wanna read up briefly on the adventure, just go to the previous post.
(I just realize I didn't take picture of the highest last fall !!)

J
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Do visit my facebook. Click the link on the side bar.

A perfect getaway

2009-10-04T14:17:00.003+08:00

Before I talk about my perfect getaway, I just want to say, I don't quite get about the Malaysian censorship. I recently realize that as liberal as have gotten, the censorship-board is fine with nudes on the screen or print outs, BUT they strictly ban F-words. They do know that images creates a much bigger impact in a person's head than words right? So.. what's up with them?

------------------

A perfect getaway. I watched this movie with Angel last night. The usual backpack traveler ends up in a tragedy. So many other stories are exactly just like this one. We just decided to watch it base on the attraction of the poster (yea.. talk about the power of advertising). Its such a low cost movie, and the story line sucks.

Anyway.. so today I decide to give myself a getaway and be quiet. I checked up on the website for a waterfall to go to. Then got some info and directions from the net to the beautiful Kanching waterfalls. The usual crazy me, the idea of going to the waterfalls, and choosing the right one to go, all happened in just 10 minutes. And I packed and went.

..... Ok.. i'm suppose to upload the pictures, but i'm totally burnt out now, I need a nap and lots of work to do later. So I'll briefly tell you what happened.

I fell 3 times which left minor scars here and there.

I was surprise to have only met 2 leeches.

The whole things was about 5 hours.

My adventurous soul led me to explore the endless trail by walking upstream into the spooky, dark forest.

I would have went on to find out where is the end to the stream, if it weren't that stupid god-knows-what animal that barked at me from 20 feet away which creeps me to hell.

I went skinny dipping.

An uncle picking up cans saw me skinny dipping, and took off all his clothes and flashes at me. yuck.

It would be better if the temperature of the water is lower, so my legs wouldn't hv minor cramps.

After I saw that animal from far, I turned back and speed up to escape. Then I heard very wierd yellings that sound like a man's voice imitating an animal..!!! Immediately all sorts of picture of orang asli coming to kill me (and probably he's calling out to his fellow mates), flashes through my mind! Trees were everywhere, and the sound echos from all directions, I have no idea where did it come from! I almost wanted to take out my camera and record my last will.

And the water is so damn crystal clear, I can't help but irresistibly drank it.

ok ok.. I'll show u just 1 picture for now.

There.

J

Angel is not just a name. Its you.

2009-10-04T02:35:00.005+08:00

I didn't expect the day to turn out this wonderful, spending such enlightening moments with my best pal forever - Angel the Bong. 9 years of friendship and still going strong.

tatz a lotta food u're having dear!

How funny we get to relate to each other, always nodding excitedly and exclaiming "Ya, ya, ya!" in almost everything we say. How bizarre it is that we speak a same language that no body else has a clue. I use to call her the Asian Mother Theresa, because of her humble and loving heart. Her lifelong mission at heart is to help the poor and needy. To reach out to touch just another life. She'd sulk in tears knowing she hasn't the ability to adopt abandoned kids while feeling a piece of their pain filled heart.

Where do we see such a beautiful soul today?

Angel recently got selected to compete in the Delphic Games in the lingual art category, in Korea. An amateur but her story didn't fail to touch many people in the room. Her poem speaks of love, faith and hope. Its so spiritual that it moved me to tears. I want to share this with you, and hope you too, will capture this beautiful piece. "A Story of Let Me Sow Peace" by Angelina Anthea Bong.

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I'm happy to be part of your life. I love you dearly. Angel is not just your name, it is what you are.

J
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Do Visit my facebook. Click on the link at the side bar.

Keeping things simple

2009-10-03T04:31:00.005+08:00

I just feel like keeping things simple around here. I guess that's what happens to a person when he or she gets older, do you agree with that?

I don't know about your life. Some people just have bombs of hoo-haas going on in their life; some live it easy-breezy with everything taken cared of in their entire life, and there just isn't anything much for them to pinch. But I definitely felt like I've lived a hundred years over the span of a very short few years.

One job after another. One season after another. One friend after another that slowly drifts off. One pain after another. One thing after another to be happy about. One event after another. Oh.. as I type all this, my mind flashes back to all the many events that marked yet another chapter in my history making.

Here is the start of another new season of keeping it simple. By saying that doesn't mean I've given up on my dreams, my job or anything like that. I'm not quite sure either, myself. Maybe what i'm trying to say is .. just keep out the emotional hassles off and do the work, and get it done so I can move on.

I don't often have conversations with people long enough that leads to pouring out the deepest of the heart. But if I do, I realize from some of it which gave me a red attention light turned on. I discovered that I'm quite late in developing my maturity in handling emotions. Oh.. that would be a long story of reasons why I end up in all the mistakes and unnecessary incidents. I can sum that up and conclude by saying "feeling is not to drive us, but a gateway for us to experience what we're driven for".

I'm very tired now. Good night world.

J
- do drop by my facebook page Joey Sia for a visit. Link at the right hand side corner.

Facebook page

2009-09-18T06:04:00.001+08:00

I just created a new page in facebook for Joey Sia.
Feel free to visit:

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Selangor-Malaysia/City-Harvest-KL/37547581785#/pages/Petaling-Jaya-Malaysia/Joey-Sia/163226378097

Moving forward

2009-08-24T00:54:00.003+08:00

Moving forward is hard. There will be new things to adapt to - new people, new environment, new thinking, new set of rules... Is that why people generally don't like changes?

I happen to like changes a lot. Its natural in me to want to see and feel new things. I don't like it that one day I wake up, and I can predict what's gonna happen that day. I don't like the feeling of knowing how its going to be like again on this day. But enjoy every moment of curiosity. It creates space for me to think, to ponder, and to reflect.

Sometimes I think all that is just a waste of my youth and time. But in your opinion, do you think it is?

I'm in the midst of finding that touch of art again. The strokes of my brushes on the canvas. Or the needle piercing through the fabric. The wave of colors that drives adrenaline up my spine. Oh, how I get goosebumps just by the thought of it.

But its different now. I have fear. Because I cannot sense it as strongly as I use to anymore. Once, that strong conviction of the arts of the nature and tribalism. I cannot feel them anymore, even though I tried to meditate on them. Have I lost myself? Was I giving in to something that I never was?

What would you say to, transforming yourself to fit the culture and community you're in, over being firm and bold in what you are?

gosh. .. i'm so tired. I need to get up to the mountains again.

I love my house

2009-06-22T21:31:00.003+08:00

I just got my camera back from the service centre! I haven't been using it due to the battery connector problem for quite some time, and eventually decided to send it for repair.

I love my camera.

And I love my house! That, up there is just part of my house. I painted the wall dusty pink which goes just nice with my half-done painting. Had a couple of gatherings here already, but I'm looking forward to throw a dress up party. Lets see what occasion comes next.

Since I got my camera back, I'm thinking of doing some projects with it again. Say.... snapping the pictures of what I wear on stage. I guess that can put some pressure on me to dress better.

birds and droppings

2009-06-22T16:10:00.000+08:00

Met up with Pst John O. this afternoon at a coffee shop opposite my house. We had a great time catching up and he shared with me some words of wisdom.

2 very fine parable that he said which sinked into my heart was this:

When you see the birds flying around your head, shoo them away before they lay eggs or droppings on it. Eventually, they will rot and sink into you body causing you to wither away.

Secondly he said, you have a banana tree at the backyard, this year it produced bad fruits, you chopped the fruit down hoping by next year it will produce good fruit. But next year, you find the fruits still bad. Then you realize, the problem is not with the fruit, but the root of the tree.

It is just amazing. I believe everyone faces problems in lives that they struggle with. We must get that revelation from God.

He closed by the verse 2 Cor 10:4

Wateva models

2009-05-20T10:27:00.003+08:00

I don't understand why models on the runway now a days comes in all forms of shape, look, denomination, style...etc. When they use to have a standard range of quality.

bfah!

Easter 2009

2009-04-08T04:46:00.001+08:00

What if you could re-visit your past? Would you have the courage to discover?

Click click

CHC KL presents to you an Easter drama production. An experience you'll never forget!

For more information, please visit www.chc.org.my

Faithful in little things

2009-03-30T23:49:00.001+08:00

My mate and I went out for dinner at Ikea today. We bumped into a local artist, and we exchanged looks. He looked at us as if he knew us, just for that one second. Probably at the backstage of some fashion show, I can't remember. But that got me and my mate to talk about being someone famous and well known to the public.

Being who we are, we always dream about what we want to be. And meeting this local celebrity got us into that mood again. Not just an artist, but I want to be a well known celebrity. But being famous isn't such a wonderful thing. Just like what happened tonight, the both of us cannot stop staring at him and discussing everything about the way he eats, the clothes he wear, the people that were with him…. Being a public person is just being placed out to be talked about, criticized and judged. (I think I'm fortunate to be an artist, cuz people will usually just coin my behavior as being artistic, whether this way or another. )

After dinner, we walked down the streets of Curve, and there was this live band performing some Carpenter songs along that street. Whom I think is the pride and glory of Malaysia. I can just imagine this bunch of people might once be the backups or "backdrop" in a P. Ramlee show. But they never gave up music. Until this day, they're still singing with passion. And I think its so godly to be singing just by the street to make people feel good. It definitely made me feel good. And sometimes its not about the fame or whatsoever hoo haa of being a singer, but whether the singer can entertain people and feel worthy of living a better life.

Just that got me thinking more about my dreams and passion in life. How much have the band members strive in their entire life, but never gave up doing what they do, even though people might not take notice of them. Its about the love for performing, and making people feel good.

I will feel angry and dissatisfied that I'm not what I imagined myself to be. So many self-motivation books that I read says I should live out the life that I imagine myself to have, starting now. But why they never become real? Then I realize, people will never be satisfied with life. A working person hopes to go back to school. And a schooling person will prefer to be in the working world. Its always the story. I think God created man to have this healthy dissatisfaction, so that a person will want to work harder towards the goal. And once the goal is reached, he longs for the other thing. And it just goes on. I wouldn't think it's a bad thing afterall. What joy is there if I just get whatever I hope to get? Will there be anymore joy if I have nothing else more to look forward to?

However, in order to reach the stage where I can become who I want to be, an artist and an artistic singer, I asked myself this question - have I been singing to make people feel good just like the band? Have I been singing to comfort those who're in pain? Have I been singing to encourage the person who lost his hope? If not, wouldn't that be the place where I should start out . Its said "you were faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things." So, how faithful am I with the talents that I have? I can sing, but have I been singing enough for a good cause? I am artistic, have I use it for a good cause enough so that God will promote me?

Something we all ought to look into.

Its not how big we can become, whether real life or in our dreams, but how faithful are we with the gifts and talents given to us even if it means using it on a small way.

60 earth hour

2009-03-28T17:28:00.000+08:00

just 60 minutes of your effort and time for our earth.... how much does it take to contribute to this?

I turned on the tv while in pitch black, and 8 tv wasn't showing anything. With the image something like the above, comes along the caption:

"8tv will not be transmitting any programmes in support of earth hour."

wow... impressive..

J.A.M La Vida

2009-03-26T09:53:00.002+08:00

Now, wont you be kind enough to visit our dear friends in Moscow.
They are especially dear to our hearts.

click click

Click on everything available for clicking.. you may change their lives.. and many others ;)
If you get what I mean. Especially the ads!

joey

I love especially..

2009-03-26T08:45:00.004+08:00

I enjoy working from home.

I really do.

I like waking up in the morning, having a cup of coffee at the balcony, eating scramble eggs while soaking into the heat of the morning sun.

Then turn on the TV and watch cartoon while i plan the work for the day.

Then check some mails and news...

And work like mad through the day!

I enjoy cooking myself a good lunch while playing a movie on the tv and replying msn messages.

Then continue to work like mad.

I am inspired by my house and working in comfortable home clothes.

Is that a preference? Which shows lack of discipline? Or its just the way I am?

joey

GungHo

2009-03-12T06:04:00.004+08:00

Its been such a long time since I last burnt the midnight oil.

I know I'm going to suffer through the new day, but I feel very good that I have finished so much work.

2 and a half months of 2009 passed by just like that. So so so much happened this year. All the things that can accumulate to sum up for one year's worth if it were 2 years ago. And this year started of with much character building and breaking of my pride and ego.

My body and mind is floating now, from a whole night's work. Not gonna talk much.

However, Friends Night is happening this Friday, 8pm at City Harvest Church. Anyone is welcomed. So if you happen to be around this neighbourhood, please drop by for a visit. You don't need an invitation card. But if you want some hotdogs, get the coupons from me. And that is entirely on me.

We're giving out 4 Ipod nanos that night. You don't wanna miss that out! There will be so much fun in games, local band performances and lucky draw. Its a night for bonding, meeting long lost friends, meeting new friends, and enjoy yourself.

For more information you can visit www.chc.org.my.

:)

Like my new look?

joey

Internet coming soon

2009-02-19T10:33:00.001+08:00

I haven't registered for an internet service for my new house cuz I want to cut down on my expanses. Especially for the fact that I'm living alone now, tending a house aint easy.

BUT, my brother got a job yesterday and he's moving in to live with me! And being such a cheapsket brother, the first thing I say was "Great! I can have internet now". Without hesitation, my brother agreed to get the line registered TODAY!

Hooray! U'll see me more often very soon now.

I cannot lose you!

2009-01-27T23:49:00.003+08:00

I always imagine how I'd feel if any of my close ones disappear from my life just like that. But I never ever imagined... it will come so startling on a special occasion, at the special feast.

It started off all well, and happy, as it is the Chinese New Year celebration ofcourse. To top the joy of the season, my family is also celebrating my mom's birthday.

After a day of merry reunion at my relative's, we spent the night dining at home. While having some family bonding before my brother heads off to another town tonight.

It was wonderful, we talked and laughed. After dinner, red wine and sparkling juice was served. Mom cannot drink. She never does. Well, only once in her entire life, tried to sip some wine which gave her rashes. Tonight, its hard to resist, as we're all thankful to God and happy that the family is healthy and doing great; especially seeing how much my nieces have grown, and the elder one is maturing into her 6th birthday end of this year.

We continued to laugh over very little amount of red wine, and just a moment later, birthday cake was brought out. After the birthday song, then it happened. The feeling engraved in my heart. My mom complained that she felt drunk. We thought it was ridiculous to get drunk with that little wine she had. As we joked along, she started to distant from us. She didn't respond to our joke, just stared at her glass. Then she took her hands up to brush her hair off her face, but her arms were very slow.

Instantly I knew she couldn't feel herself. Instantly I saw she couldn't control herself.

Funny thing is.. we continued to talk to her, as though she's just day dreaming.

Then at a sitting position, her body tilt towards a little to the left. I knew it was wierd sitting like that, with her head down; but since my brother and dad beside her didn't react to it, I thought maybe she was reaching for her ankle probably to scratch on a mosquito bite.

Just a few seconds after that, we all panicked. Mom didn't respond anymore. Her entire body went into unconcious mode. Everyone got worried. Dad started to massage mom's hand.. so did my brother.

Immediately I stood up went around them, and asked if we should carry her to lie down. Then I remembered a warm towel can help reduce the drowsiness. Without hesitation I ran to the kitchen to get one, with my sister in law coming in to help. And my 2 niece tagged along kept asking what are we doing. I was too worried to care about their naive questions. In my heart, I kept calling out for Jesus... and PRAY was the only word in my mind!

I didn't stop praying in tongues.. And did not stop calling out for God.

It wasn't just a person got drunk... she literally passed out! Many things flashed through my mind.. "Its only so little wine.. maybe her body couldn't take it and... and..", "It couldn't be one of those sudden tragic incidents.... ". I've heard of, and so did one of my cousin passed on at the age of 21 without any reason. Just... like... that....

After Dad laid the towel on Mom's face, we waited... we want that moment to end there immediately. Finally, she opened her eyes... She sat back up.... her face was pale, she couldn't speak. We gave her another warm towel, and helped her to rest on the couch.

I didn't lose my mom. But.. on that split seconds.. I felt it.... The atmosphere in the room was so thick... so quiet... We didn't know it was a joke.. or it'll be something that'll crush our lives forever.

I don't think I loved mom enough yet. So much I want to do for them.

Thank God.. after 10 minutes of rest, mom walked back into the dining hall asking for a piece of her birthday cake... and we continued joking about her drunkeness..

Love you Mom.

skin

2009-01-15T17:48:00.002+08:00

When you thought you've contributed so much, even if its not part of your responsibility; in the end its taxing, wearing you out; you feel lonely, you tear... you thought you deserve some sympathy or at least some grace. But what slaps at your cheek is a quiet assassination. Words that do not meant to kill you, but they still slice through the bare skin of your heart's flesh.

heeeeee

2009-01-05T12:22:00.002+08:00

isk isk isk

2009

2009-01-01T16:51:00.001+08:00

Happy new year 2009 everybody!

May this year be great and prosperous to everyone of you!

Continue to shine like a star!

Joey

MRSC

2008-12-05T18:27:00.000+08:00

Hey guys, this is the first time I hear the contestant of MRSC perform (at their rehearsal now). I think they're awesome! The standard is pretty good. As a singer myself.. I give them thumbs up! If you didn't plan to come, I'd like to invite you to come.

That RM20 doesn't justify the high standard of their performance.

You wont regret.

I love Cindy Lee

2008-12-01T17:04:00.003+08:00

Happy world Aids day!

hmm.. saying that sounds really funny.

Its Aids day... are we suppose to be happy about it?
Celebrate aids? Cheer for the victims? *Shrug*

Anyway.. just be cautious.

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I LOVE CINDY LEE!!!

You're just awesome gal!

Gynnel's group of friends who came to attend her wedding are just awesome bunch of people. Their charisma blessed me so much! Reminded me so much of my days in SOT Singapore.

I can't wait to see you guys again when I go to Singapore for staff retreat!
I hope I can meet you guys... it should be free and easy trip. Lets see how it goes.

Wow wow wow is all i can say for the night I spent with this group of happy girls! Though I was tired and almost past out on the street, but with them around, I just get numb with exhaustion.. meaning tired - gone!

:D

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2008 is ending guys... buck up for the final lap of the race for this year! Whatever you haven't done in that list of resolution you wrote down 11 months ago, which I believe you've lost it... well, do your best to get it done. Then remember to start preparing for 2009's! Make the first in your resolution list to be -"I MUST NOT LOSE MY RESOLUTION LIST!" *giggle*

A word for Asia Cons 2008

2008-11-24T09:31:00.001+08:00

Was it a blast or what?

Asia Conference definitely gave me a healthy heart attack.

Though it was extremely tiring having only 3 - 4 hours sleep daily for the entire week and attending numerous workshops daily, but it was all worthwhile.

I just feel extremely happy to see all my SOT classmates at the event who came from all over the world. It felt as though SOT did not end, and we're just attending just another event in the school days. However, its unfortunate that I have to take care of my members and not being able to spend time with them. I really miss all of you guys. Seeing how dedicated you are to your lives now, I am touched deeply.

Everyone is happy now after SOT. Everyone is doing better than ever, and prospering in every aspect of their lives. Work, family, ministry... all running at a bullet train speed towards success. I'm very proud of everyone of you. And very sorry we couldn't spend more than one minute to catch up. But our hearts will forever be knit together by the love of God and the vision in Him.

Asia is going to change for the better. We are going to change and transform Asia, taking it down by storm!

Bless each and everyone of you.

I love you all!

joeysia

Macbook or PDA? Or.... keyboard

2008-11-12T15:07:00.004+08:00

Macbook Pro and PDA phone, I want both.

Ofcourse I'd need a macbook more than anything else. Its how I work, and where I work from. I need to keep my 1 thousand 4 million and 9 hundred things-to-do in it. (y i need? cuz my laptop has burning rubber smell recently. Which is old age smell fyi, and shall be in ICU very soon)

This is the first time in this couple of months in my entire life of using a manual organizer that I really filled each column of everyday with something to accomplish. Everyday, every hour and every minute is a race.

But its the arise and "shine" season of the year. Which shine does not put a stray of light to any possibilities of getting a macbook. But I get a better "holy house" though.

This must sound like crap to you. I'm sure s.o.m.e of you know what it's all about. We're all in that same boat.

Then, boss asked me why I'm not having lunch everyday. My reply was "I'm trying to save money to buy a professional keyboard". Even though I'm really planning to get a keyboard, but i'm not fasting because of that. I'm not eating for allll that one thousand things I want to get. Just that I'm seeing which one is the best possible one at the right timing with the sufficient fund for expenses.

Stress-nya.

JoeySIA
A star.

What have I wished?

2008-11-06T16:55:00.002+08:00

Recently as i'm given the responsibility to keep track with a few blogs and a couple of other web based profiles, it reminded me of a wish I once had some time last year.

It was the time when I so admired a couple of celebrity blogger- bryanboy and kinkybluefairy, to name a couple. They get paid to write. They get sponsored to attend any kind of events. Lets not talk about the fame and recognition they get. But by merely enjoying research, keh-poh with what's happening in town, and talk talk talk all about their opinion on the web with a heap of readers congesting their web traffic, is nothing but awesome to me.

So I wished I could be paid just to write and keep blogs.

And what had I wished? Today, I AM keeping blogs and web profiles for someone else. But ofcourse at my utmost pleasure and joy to do so. However, it isn't to my best effort and enjoyment yet, as I'm juggling between 3 -4 job tasks at the same time. Each time I update something, I could only try doing it at the most efficient and less time consuming way, instead of making the best of its potential to market what I'm working on.

More than just writing and keeping profile, more wonderfully, I'm learning so much about marketing and also all those delicately and hi-technically designed web gadgets! They just amaze me.

A toast to the web world. One that cannot be defined by words.

*cling*

JoeySIA
-a star-

u better look at this

2008-10-23T13:43:00.001+08:00

NOTCOT: Banksy's Village Petstore & Charcoal Grill from Jean Aw on Vimeo.

Sob Sob.

JoeySIA

Finally down

2008-10-23T04:08:00.002+08:00

upon embarking on this super duper busy lifestyle, everyone had been warning me to get some rest. I have to say, initially, my excitement has surpassed all the impossibilities. But now, my body is protesting and saying enough is enough!

There..... finally, I'm sick. I almost was last week. But I didn't allow my body to, until 2 days ago, this protest took place. Ok ok.. fine, I took a day just for this pampered body to take a rest.

Feeling much better now, except for a little nose block. But I'm more ready than ever to run again.

I can't wait for my apartment to be ready to move in. Then I'll get to swim every single night! Which i'm very angry that exercise is so inconvenient now.

Don't worry, no matter how busy I am, I'll never forget to feed you sheeps! Just herd along~~

A star in progresss
JoeySIA

one sunday evening

2008-10-20T09:13:00.002+08:00

JJ and Rudy said: " A paid stalker is called paparazzi."

:D

Met up with Dida after so long since I left and come back to Malaysia. Recently she have this thing for Thai food. Obviously, to have Thai meals, you cannot miss out a person like me who likes everything about Thailand.

I brought her and Anna to my favorite Thai diners in Bangsar... what's it call again.. erm.. Jim's Planter? Yea.. that's the name of the place. Its just next door to MPH. They really serve great and dilicious Thai cuisine. I had my all time first choice Green Curry; Dida had roast duck curry and Anna had.. what's that.... Thai fried noodles. I haven't went to the one at Tamarine, which supposedly is the best in town, but so far this is to my opinion the best in KL.

Haven't went to Bangsar for EN ages... so we walked around a bit, and popped by Nurita Harith's shop to pay a visit to her newly opened boutique. Just look for the sign Nurita Harith, on the 2nd floor somewhere next door to Baci, and Gallo which are on the first floor.

Nurita carries a couple of local designer's goods. To name a few, Jimmy Lim, Micky Tan, Justin Lim, Alexandra Yeo, etc etc. So, now all the young designers gang up. isk isk isk.

She picked a good choice of color for the interior - grey, grey, and more grey. Enhanced by the yellow lightings.. its just perfectly gothically romantically classicly melancholic. Then right at the centre of the boutique erects a super huge glass box with an exhibited masterpiece gown which really dramatizes the entire place.

After all the shopping we went to delicious at Bangsar Village for some desert. I had Bread and Butter Pudding; Dida had Banana Chocolate temptation and Anna had her all time favorite Tiramisu in a clear glass. All were perfect. So tasty and satisfying that I get goosebums each time I take a bite! Dida couldn't finish her gigantic cake, so I gave a helping mouth.. and resulted to sore throat today.

Great.. in order to protect my wounded throat, I cannot speak for a day.

How had your weekend go?

Love you always,
JoeySIA

goosebums over 2009 hair trend!

2008-10-18T03:17:00.006+08:00

oh my goodness gracious god.....

I just get goosebums over next year's mens hair trend! Argh..

Well, my new stylist Jimmy from Monsoon ID is not bad himself. He gave me a next year's trend hair cut yesterday... as you can see at the side bar.. my October picture profile. Well, this picture does not justify how great the hair style look, because of that angle. Anyway...

Mens! Hold your horses...

2009 hair trend, School boy and Rocker!

The Fringe, The Slick Back, & The Classic Part

The Fringe:

The Slick Back:

The Classic Part:

THE BEST PART!!!!
Gosh, i just love this... I'm even getting "duckbums" for this man..
2009 Hair color trend..... ASH WHITE! Well, they call it the "obvious blonde" or "white blonde" But i like it called ash white. yuuuuuuuuuummmmmyyy!!!

I'm definitely going for it. Just so you wait. But ofcourse, I just dyed my hair yesterday. Its not going to be another one month or two before I take this color! oh~~ i cant wait!

While I'm typing this, I've asked Josh to go get our hair dyed ash white in december! Just the right time for white christmas.. Just not that white... Ash white babe.. a.s.h white.

Now, get your phone ready to call your stylist, before everyone catches it and ends up as a "lahling" fashion.

JoeySIA