Showing posts with label Point Of View. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Point Of View. Show all posts

Saturday, 18 February 2012

Shpping Spree

Got myself a new gadget. Gosh! This January and February is really money consuming. I have spent a lot in a small place like Sabah. Hmm, maybe not that small, but still I think I have spent a lot (in my own context) and I know I will be spending more soon :(

Went to KK (Kota Kinabalu) in January and February, did some shopping. Got myself some clothing and also for my mom! See!!! These are done in 5 hours and 3 hours separately, ok, lots of window shopping I know. But I also got some books etc mar... which is not in pictures.

I think that's because Sandakan don't have places for shopping, hence once you grab chance in a city, you will be like Jail-Free!!! Wahahaha!Ok, I know if my parents see this they would be like, "Do you need to spend like that?!" Even though it's my own salary, but still I know they care for me :P

Anyway, then I got myself a new gadget. Guess what?

Yes, the brand new Canon S100 (announced in 15.09.2011).

I got it at RM1380 in Sandakan for Canon PowerShot S100, 8GB memory card, leather case, screen protector and coupons for film. *I think the boss accidentally said 8GB, otherwise should be 4GB memory card* I am not sure whether it is the best deal, but thus far cheapest I saw in Sandakan.

In the box is a Canon PowerShot S100 camera, battery, battery charger and cable, USB cable, Getting Started user guide and a User guide CD.
These pictures are all taken by this new gadget. Guess, I really need to improve my shooting skill. Hmm, no skills with good kit is still useless :P

And I got this for cleaning the lens and screen at RM15 la...
And I am planning to get a iPod Touch...that will get my more less RM1k flying and I am planning for a week trip to the Phillipines, and I am thinking of getting a new laptop or desktop...and I plan on going Thailand and ... the list just never ends. GOSH! This would be a money spending year, guess I just have to start saving more, LOL.

Saturday, 9 October 2010

Parents

The 1st registered letter came on 24th September 2010, 2.10pm. Wasn't at home that time. So saw a single piece of notification. When we realized, it was already the 2nd day evening, was a Saturday. My dad and mum were so anxious thinking it was the induction letter. They are way much more anticipated than I was. They kept reminding me to go collect the letter the first thing on Monday morning. They just can't stop worrying for me. And I believe while I was sound asleep, they were tossing around in bed, insomnia!

So Monday came, I woke up at 12+pm. My dad reminded me, yet again. I just wasn't as anxious as he was. See, it was lunch time. And I usually take a bath before going out. Therefore, it wasn't earlier than 2pm that I started driving to the central post office. And at last, they found the registered mail --- my registration number. Hmmm, not induction. But like ALL parents they are more anxious, asking about it.

Then came 4th October, a Monday. Was awoken up by the ringtone of SMS, yes from my groupmate who received his induction letter via registered mail. Told my parents, and yes again, they are anxious. It was funny for me though that, I, the one who is involved seemed to be much much calmer and relaxed than they are. For I know even I rceived the letter that day, induction wouldn't start immediately till 11th October. But I understand, it is their 1st child working --- WORKING. My dad even rushed to the mail box to see whether he missed out any notifications or letters. But yeah, nothing. And you just couldn't see how much attention he is paying to the vehicles driving outside.

At around 2pm, the intercom rang. My dad shouting, "Postman, go and get it."I with my fat ass, lazily dragging out. And you know what? My dad was so quick and out of a sudden he has some rubbish bag to throw, at the back of me following out. He saw the postman, seemed slightly relaxed but hell knows how many beats his heart was pounding?! Signed, got the letter, went back and tore out. I assure you, his neck must be longer than any girraffes on earth, and I mean ANY!!!

Yes, it was the long awaited induction letter. Induction starts Monday, 11th October in Port Dickson till 15th October. Upon knowing, my dad quickly phoned my mum. And rushed me to get prepared and pack up for the induction. Of course, I was still lazing around. It isn't till a week later, so let weekend be the days of rushing.

So that's my parents. We know how much parents loved and cared for their kids. ;)

Thursday, 22 July 2010

Malaysia After 6 Long Years

Touched the ground of Malaysia on 20th July 2010. What a relief! Finally after 6 long years. And with my overweight-luggage & bags, I saw my dad waving at the arrival hall of KLIA, with my mum awaiting in the car. And my first "meal" in Malaysia --- DURIAN!!! :P

21st July was spent sleeping. Jet-lag? No idea, but I had rather think that my solo-traveling is exhausting as I need to be constantly alert. Now with my luggages unpacked yet and my book shelves with stuffs dated back to the secondary school, I really think that I am too much a sentimentalist. Should have thrown/donated long time ago, DARN! Now I am having trouble to clean them up with my tired mind and soul.

The next plan for August is of course settling my interview. Have filled up SPA form FINALLY on 21st July evening. Hopefully the interview date can still be arranged on 8/8 (should be 10/8 as 8/8 is a Sunday :D) And now lots of photocopying and certifying work to do. Haven't really started yet, but I know I will...Soon?

Gosh, so many things undone and I have totally no mood to start any :( Gotta get myself prepared and start working. And I am still left undecided on my 3 choices of working place. ARGHHH!!! What should I do?

Thursday, 1 July 2010

Just A Simple Update

My Ukrainian Graduation Day was held on the 25th June 2010. The Malaysian one is yet to come - 1st August 2010 in PutraJaya. My sister had "climbed the mountains and dive the sea", just to get a visa to attend my convocation here in Ukraine, Simferopol. Fortunately, everything went well.

So here I am writing this just to inform my few faithful readers that I am on a journey with my sister in Ukraine. We have managed to squeezed in Yalta, Sevastopol and Evpatoria while we were in Crimea. Then we "trained" to Odessa. I am currently in Kiev---the last destination here for my sister this time. She will then fly off to Moscow on the 4th July, whereas I will be continuing my trip to Germany and Netherland.

Things has been interesting. We argued, laughed, experienced some unforgettable moments. And despite my "multiple arrivals" in Kiev, I still managed to get both of us lost today :( Therefore, we are now totally exhausted. Not only due to the walking, but also due to the scorching sun of summer, and the "cramped" journey.

Although many would have thought that Ukraine has nothing much to offer, I wouldn't want to agree with that statement. Many of my friends' parents applied visa to Ukraine. But straight after the convocation, many have left for Euro-trip the next day. I do agree that Europe has a lot to offer for travel. But Ukraine is not a place to offer nothing. I am sad to say that I couldn't manage to fit in the schedule for my sister these few places --- Lviv, Chernivtsi, Sudak, TarKhanKut, Kamyanets-Podilsky, Bakhchisaray etc. I know that many people thinks that a lot of these places may not be as interesting as the Colosseum in Rome, or the Familia Sagrada in Spain, or even the Eiffel Tower in Paris etc, but after going through all the red tapes getting a visa to Ukraine, I don't think leaving without visiting some of the places in Ukraine is worth it. Besides, it has a lot to offer, the beautiful Black Sea, the nature that is unpolluted/destroyed, the culture and people that is different ... ...

How many people have ever really thought of visiting Ukraine when one plans for a trip? How many would have had the opportunity to visit while having someone close (family members/children/friends) being able to be a "tour guide" (though I may be the lousy one hahaha)? How many then would have had a guide who speaks Russian (Russian as broken as mine is also counted hehehe)?

Hmm, too much of emo-ing here. Don't know why this place suddenly seems so beautiful especially when I will be leaving in 19 days :( Guess, human beings only start to appreciate something when time is not much left :) By the way, will update you guys about my trip, not only for my memory, but also for those "lost travellers" who have a hard time finding information about Ukraine, my friends who are interested in reading and also my uni-mates/future CSMU students who will be travelling in Ukraine/Europe. Hope I will be able to write everything down :)

Till the next post, wish me luck :D

Thursday, 3 June 2010

Channel Your Anger Reasonably

It's very common, especially for Chinese to ask unnecessary questions, which I mean very simple and obvious. I don't know whether it's a habit or it's a manners, or perhaps to merely initiate a converstion. Some simple examples :

"哦,你在吃饭啊?(Oh, you are eating?)"
X asked Y when, obviously, Y is eating.
I like it, if Y answered "No, I am sleeping." or whatever.

X holding a toothbrush with tooth paste on it going into the toilet, and Y asked,
"刷牙 (Brushing your teeth)?"
Yesss, OBVIOUSLY!!! I bet X isn't going to brush the toilet bowl with that, isn't it?

Locking the door, exiting of the house, people like to ask,
"出门(Going out)?"
It is still ok if the question was to be, "Where are you going?"

If we observed properly, most of the time, we tend to ask some questions which we already obviously know or have been WITNESSING the answer. As much as I wanted to call these as STUPID questions, it is undeniably something we do unconsciously, even I have been asking these questions. Yes, I am saying that I do asked SILLY questions, how ironic is this?

But often, people aasked/answered politely, with a smile, with courtesy, even though knowing that it's unnecessary. You know, it's very funny, but almost everyone has this sort of habit, not excluding myself. But what I don't like is that when people already know the answer so well, and they still like to ask those "already known" questions and channel their anger when one is not in control of the situations.

I won't mention names, but it's too obvious that whoever is involved would be angry upon reading this, because ''Siapa makan cili, siapa rasa pedas!" Direct translation --- Who ate the chilli, who will feel spicy. For those reading yet not knowing, I think it's a good time for reflection. And it's too obvious that I am being shown the "Black Face", so stop asking who is who.

A : What happen?
B : A guy came in blablabla *Phone rang*
A : He wears his shoes in ?
*Phone rang, B answered the phone*
B : Sorry, what did you asked?
A : I asked, he wears the shoes and entered?
*B knowing A obviously knows the answer*
B : I didn't observed (rolling eyes in the mind, but still, soft-spokenly, answered politely)
A : IT'S SO OBVIOUS HE WEARS IN LA!!! THE FLOOR SO DIRTY!!!
*B chose not to answer/say anything further*

P/S : The guy is a Russian worker entered the bathroom for about 3minutes to check the pipe.

I mean it's so freaking obvious you know the answer, so why ask? And if you still have the habit of asking silly questions, why should you channel your anger upon others??? I know maybe some would think B might be at fault for not answering the question (But is it really B's fault?). Let me explain further.

It's Asians (more precisely Malaysians) culture to not wear shoes in the house. But it's not for the Russians. So these Russians worker would, unrealizingly (I assumed so), enter with their shoes. But you see, it's obvious that it is not in B's control or power that the Russian fella wears the shoes in and so is B at fault??? Even if A was to ask B this question, which B answered without giving A his/her "expecting" answer, is it A's right to growl at B like that??? B could easily answered, "IF YOU ALREADY KNEW, WHY ASKED?"

See, I understand that A is angry that the man wears his shoes and made the floor dirty, but whatever happened, happened; even if B told the guy to take off the shoes, the floor is already dirty. And it's not like he is walking around the whole room for half an hour or so, it's just a 1m2 area, in three minutes. What do you expect B to tell the fella??? (Although I think he should take off his shoes when he saw the shoes at the front of the door) But come on, is it really B's fault then???

What I don't like is the way A answered, if A still wants to answer with that final sentence, at least use not the anger. And if A is angry, please freaking understand it's not B's fault, so why channel the anger on B??? I simply just couldn't see the logic behind it!!!

Maybe some of the readers would asked why don't B tell face to face with A about the dissatisfaction ??? You see, at times, it is pointless! Especially like you have less than two months in the hostel. I am writing this not to point fingers at others but the main issue I wanted to point is, channel your anger and frustrations in a right way, towards the right things and REASONABLY!!!

We all have our times of acting silly, talking sh*t, asking stupidly, but we don't expect an answer with anger from people. And cetainly if we didn't want this on us, we shouldn't do this unto others as well. I certainly could see and learn from this after my own experience (even though I've learned it way much earlier), but I hope others could learn too.

Wednesday, 2 June 2010

D-O-C-T-O-R

Cleared my 1st exam of the two today (01.06.2010). 1st exam consist of Social Medicine, Hygiene and Pediatrics. The next will be on the 16th June 2010 for 3 subjects too, Therapy - O&G - Surgery (Yes, tonight will be a break for me before I have to stuck for the next preparation). And then, I could gladly tour around Crimea, the Black Sea before the graduation ceremony. Hmmm, maybe I should wear long sleeves to prevent myself from tanning too much :P Imagine how those people in bikinis and, perhaps sunbathing naked, would think of me? Morons??? Hehehe

Looking back, it's kinda fast how the time flies by. 6 years, I've been stuck here in Ukraine for 6 darn long years. Yet, my level of Russian is so much to be desired. Hahaha. But seriously, I don't think I am at fault. I am taking an English course, staying in the university's hostel, speaking with mainly my mini-Malaysia community, interacting with my pure-Malaysian group mates... ... What do you expect? At least, I have manage to survive in this Russian-speaking place, traveling around with my broken Russian. And I have to agree, it's much more easier to pick up language when you are young, way way younger :)

I didn't really like Ukraine when I first arrived here 6 years ago. Especially when I first arrived in the Simferopol airport, a very much backward one compared to our sophisticated KLIA. And this was my very first time traveling abroad. I have to admit, I am not those people who are home-sick to the extend of complaining every darn little things. As much I disliked this place, I don't despise it. And in fact, as time went by, I learned to grow and like this place and in fact, I think I fell in love with this place, this field of sunflowers (although I haven't really saw a field of sunflowers :P No doubt, bouquets of them. always) But, of course, I am still looking forward to going back to Malaysia and I can't wait till the day I am flying home :D

Studying abroad, especially in a country where communication is difficult, is never easy. And yes, studying medicine in Ukraine or Russia is not like the other "more-famous" countries, like the USA, UK, Australia etc. The duration itself took 6-years as compared to other places, (even my homeland) which usually takes 5 years (some even is as short as 4.5 years only). The cost for education is no doubt slightly lower as compared to those advance-countries, but it certainly gets higher nowadays. Language barrier is another issue, where you need to pick up the local language to be able to communicate with the locals/patients, even if you're in an English medium stream. It's compulsory!!! And next up is definitely the different culture and society and that you're faraway from home, having to re-adapt to the new environment, especially the weather and climate, food, people, new friends ... ... It's tough, definitely, but I think I have gone through it and am proud to shout out loud "I have made it!!!"

Upon successfully completing my 1 of the 2 exams, I could say that we students here have manage to put on the first stroke of "R" --- l. Yeah, 6 years, each year representing an alphabet --- D-O-C-T-O-R !!! Can't wait for the day to put on the final stroke of the "R", yet on the contrary, still hoping to have more time to prepare for my final exam and, last but not least, I seriously enjoy the time of being a student :)

Friday, 21 May 2010

Some Meaningful Quotes

Read this from FaceBook from a somebody whom I really do not know, and that means strangers (Ain't FB powerful and super no privacy?). Meaningful and simply want to share this. For those who can't read Chinese, there is something called as Google Translator, (hopefully it's correct hahaha). Enjoy!

1.莎士比亚说:

   再好的东西,都有失去的一天。

   再深的记忆,也有淡忘的一天。

   再爱的人,也有远走的一天。

   再美的梦,也有苏醒的一天。

   该放弃的决不挽留。

   该珍惜的决不放手,分手后不可以做朋友,因为彼此
伤害 过!
   也不可以做敌人,因为彼此深爱过。

2.几米说:
   当你喜欢我的时候,我不喜欢你,
   当你爱上我的时候,我喜欢上你,
   当你离开我的时候,我却爱上你,
   是你走得太快,还是我跟不上你的脚步,
   我们错过了诺亚方舟,错过了泰坦尼克号,
   错过了一切的惊险与不惊险,我们还要继续错过。
   我不了解我的寂寞来自何方,但我真的感到寂寞。
   你也寂寞,世界上每个人都寂寞,只是大家的寂寞都不同 吧。

3.刘心武说:
   不要指望,麻雀会飞得很高。
   高处的天空,那是鹰的领地。
   麻雀如果摆正了自己的位置,它照样会过得很幸福!

4.亦舒说:
   人们日常所犯最大的错误,是对陌生人太客气,而对亲密 的人太苛刻,
   把这个坏习惯改过来,天下太平。

5.郭敬明说:
   我终于发现自己看人的眼光太过简单,我从来没有去想面 具下面是一张怎样的面容,
   我总是直接把面具当做面孔来对待,却忘记了笑脸面具下 往往都是一张流着泪的脸。

6.刘心武说:
   对不起是一种真诚,没关系是一种风度。
   如果你付出了真诚,却得不到风度,那只能说明对方的无 知与粗俗!

7.韩寒说:
   再累再苦就当自己是二百五再难再险就当自己是二皮脸。

8.安妮宝贝说:
   当一个女子在看天空的时候,她并不想寻找什么。
   她只是寂寞。

9.遇见平凡说:
   缘分像一本书。
   翻的不经意会错过童话读得太认真又会流干眼泪。

10.张小娴说:
    爱,从来就是一件千回百转的事。
    不曾被离弃,不曾受伤害,怎懂得爱人?

11.亦舒说:
    无论怎么样,一个人借故堕落总是不值得原谅的,越是没有人 爱,越要爱自己。

12.刘心武说:
    与其讨好别人,不如武装自己;
    与其逃避现实,不如笑对人生;
    与其听风听雨,不如昂首出击!

13.张爱玲说:
    娶了红玫瑰,久而久之,红玫瑰就变成了墙上的一抹蚊子血, 白玫瑰还是“床前明月光";
    娶了白玫瑰,白玫瑰就是衣服上的一粒饭渣子,红的还是心口 上的一颗朱砂痣。

14.三毛说:
    一个朋友很好,两个朋友就多了一点,三个朋友就未免太多了。
    知音,能有一个已经很好了,不必太多,
    如果实在没有,还有自己,好好对待自己,跟自己相处,也是 一个朋友...

15.雪小禅说:
    我以为终有一天,我会彻底将爱情忘记,将你忘记,
    可是,忽然有一天,我听到了一首旧歌,我的眼泪就下来了,
    因为这首歌,我们一起听过。

16.郭敖说:
    我们始终都在练习微笑,终于变成不敢哭的人。
  
17.三毛说:
    不要害怕拒绝他人,如果自己的理由出于正当。
    当一个人开口提出要求的时候,他的心里根本预备好了两种 答案。
    所以,给他任何一个其中的答案,都是意料中的。

18.梓色心晴说:
    男人哭了,是因为他真的爱了。
    女人哭了,是因为她真得放弃了。

19.玄漪说:
    能够说出的委屈,便不算委屈;
    能够抢走的爱人,便不算爱人。

20.张爱玲说:
    爱情本来并不复杂,来来去去不过三个字,
    不是我爱你、我恨你,
    便是算了吧、你好吗、对不起。
  
21.马云说:
    晚上想想千条路,早上醒来走原路。

22.饶雪漫说:
    这个世界欺骗了我,我必须给与还击,我不会放掉任何一丁点 儿属于我的幸福,
    哪怕付出的代价是从此坠入地狱,我也在所不惜。

23.郭敖说:
    每个人一生之中心里总会藏着一个人,也许这个人永远都不会 知道,
    尽管如此,这个人始终都无法被谁所替代。
    而那个人就像一个永远无法愈合的伤疤,
    无论在什么时候,只要被提起,或者轻轻的一碰,就会隐隐作 痛。

24.GARVEN说:
    话是人说的,屁也是人放的,说话和放屁一样,都是一口气而 已。

25.三毛说:
    某些人的爱情,只是一种“当时的情绪"。
    如果对方错将这份情绪当做长远的爱情,是本身的幼稚。

26.张小娴说:
    如果没法忘记他,就不要忘记好了。
    真正的忘记,是不需要努力的。

27.人非草木说:
    再丑的人也能结婚,再美的人也会单身!

28.张爱玲说:
    因为爱过,所以慈悲;
    因为懂得,所以宽容。

Thursday, 22 April 2010

Tiny Tiny Things

I am very easily irritated recently, maybe hormonal imbalance or something. I don't know. I can get very frustrated over small issues even as tiny as a needle hole. I know that this isn't good, and I shouldn't be so. I know that this would affect my daily "mood". But sometimes, I just couldn't help it. And I mean I tried to ignore, but sometimes, it just seems to be such a bug, bugging over me.

I seldom want to write emotional things, anger, daily issues of tiny tiny things ...... on my blog although I know not many people read this blog. Who the hell care what happens in your life, right? I don't even bother to read people's diary online. But, I have a feel to write this down today. Yes, indeed, when I look back in some days (mind you, not even years, but maybe just tomorrow when I read back) I would already start to think I was acting so childishly and immaturely.

I have to admit that I am a sensitive girl and even to the extend of "small gas" (小气) over certain things/issues. However, I am a person who is quite "forgetful". In a few days time, I won't quite remember why I/we get quarrel. Ok, but obviously I will know that we did quarrel. I am a little bit slow to react in an argument. For example, "You see, last time you ..." Then I will "Yes, I did...." But in usual cases, people remembered and normally answer "You think you last time didn't..." See this is where arguments start and somehow people will find a solution usually, because it is usually a 0-0/1-1 situation, as both are at faults, or maybe not.

But as for my case, I usually remember that "You last time..." like in hours later after the argument. It's not that I purposely kept reminding myself about a certain small issue, but you know just like ordinary people, sometimes you just can't help but the things seems to linger around the whole day. (And I am not trying to be a History teacher, I know how irritating it would be to repeat a thing over and over again even as the years went by. But these are the "tactics" people are using.) Or maybe hours later, then in my mind, I will think "S***, I should tell the fella ..."

You don't need to remind me that arguments over tiny "芝麻绿豆" issues will not help to improve the situation. But seriously, when you look back in your life, it is these tiny "芝麻绿豆" issues that have shaped and formed your life. A simple "thank you", "sorry", greetings etc will sometimes make up a person's day.

Sometimes, when I sense an argument that might take place and might not lead us to anywhere near solution, I will just pretend like "I don't get what you mean." then switch the topic. Or maybe even like "strucked" by some other people's topic and join in the second discussion. Why make a big fuss over small issues? Some people may think that this is not a good way of solution. But, seriously, I think if it's a small issue or issues like "an egg or a chicken" stuffs, which will lead to no end, why should we waste time commenting/argue over it? And in the end some words during the "discussion" leads to both sides getting black faces or even creating an uneasy atmosphere to not only the person involved but even to people around you. You know how strong those "black aura" can be sometimes. Hahaha. So what's the point of continuing the discussion?

I feel guilty easily, I have to admit. And sometimes, in a discussion or arguments, I get so guilty after it, even though it may be such a minor thing. I don't know whether it's normal. But I will be thinking over it, "Geez, I shouldn't do that!" or "Why did I say that?" So then I have made my own mood so low throughout the day(s). I know this is very unhealthy, but it's something like consciousness in me after some arguments, even sometimes I am not at fault. Ok, listen, I know sometimes I am at fault. But just face it, it's not always me only, k?

I think I
seldom take revenge in any form and address the action of mine/others as "they deserve it". Ok, don't start to bombard me with "Yeah, you think so!" , "There that time hor, you..." , "Not even once???!!!" and the list goes on and on... (As though many people read my article and give comments hahaha. Maybe only me alone :D) See, the word SELDOM there??? But as compared to others in general, I think people around me would have to say "yes".

Lately in class, I tend to be silent and give less comments, because I don't want conflict.s I hate conflicts and worse still, I am bad, super duper bad in confrontations. I am not trying to pretend like those poor weak victims, like nobody wants to help me sort of person. The truth is, in usual daily life where there is no Tribal council as in Survivors,
usually to "win" a confrontation is to be fierce enough (Fast if not fierce enough hahaha). Face it, it is so. Stop cheating yourself with "You will see in the long run". The weak is usually eliminated first, right? Look at the nature's hierarchy. Look at our social hierarchy. Life is never fair. Tiger and the hare, life is such most of the time. Ok, don't come up with the story of The Rabbit & The Tortoise. It's called FABLES! It's a moral story for encouragement when you are still small and young.

Many would say that it is all these quarreling/arguments/discussion etc that makes the friendship stronger. But somehow, I have to disagree to a
certain extend. (Yeah, a little bit is good but not too much). But I have to say it is also these quarreling/arguments/discussion etc that had created a crack in any types of relationships. And sometimes, these cracks aren't mendable leaving a trace that is forever there.

I am hard-headed, I couldn't disagree. I am a taurus, so blame the horoscope, not me LOL.

I am trying to learn, to grow and to mature. But I seem to be learning so slow, acting still so childishly. I don't know. Maybe I am considered very much lucky for not needing to fuss over too big an issue that I have to much time to waste on small issues. I am happy that I am still care by many
(But all my silly little actions and reactions may annoy many away as the years gone by) and I am thankful for that. But I seriously need somewhere to spill it out after some small small issues that has been accumulating here deep under.

I used to cry a lot and easily. But over the years, I have managed to "cut down" the frequency and controlling the tears much better compared to before. I have the tendency to keep things to myself, and that is really bad, because this may be the timed bomb that may explode in me, sometime in the future. And the worst part, maybe, I would only hurt myself in the end. Or maybe not? But just a dead volcano??? But anyhow, it's is a burden psychologically. I have to learn to open up and
stop lingering over small issues (although most of the time, it's all these small issues that make up our day) I need to put in more time and concentration to important things in my life (Darn, and I am still blogging! Guess, something is easily said than done and maybe that's the criteria which makes a person more successful than others)

Maybe this is the place I would write down my feelings. Maybe this is where I should be pouring out when I find it hard to speak up. This may be a cowardly act but you would never know how hard it is to be able to find someone to talk to sometimes especially over some microscopical issues. But, I feel good after writing this, feeling more relief and find myself childish and finally get a sense of what went wrong. But don't worry, if those person involved happened to stumble upon this piece, and are still reading, I would protect your identity. LOL
(as though I am writing some huge piece of highly confidential information.) And don't worry, I still treasure you as a friend. Yeah, I know it's contradicting --- to write a "diary" on a blog is like entertainment news creating gossips/rumours, yet I expect people to not worry and mind. But I bet, unless you know the issue, you still can't figure out what tiny issue took place, or have you? And if you stumble on sometime later, you and I may not even remember what occurred, right?

Ok, time for some serious studies. Take care, my feelings, let the sadness be gone with the wind...

Wednesday, 21 April 2010

New Header

I was looking at some picture for headers of my blog. And I stumble upon this (here)very familiar one and I decided to use it. It's so relevant to my current location --- UKRAINE
See, how beautiful it is! It's totally very typical for the Ukrainians. The sunflower, the blue sky and of course the lady in the traditional Ukrainian costume. Marvelous, isn't it? Ok, anyway I don't care whether you agree or not, because personally I like this header hahaha (But, I don't think you will disagree that it's pretty :P Contradicting myself??? LOL).

So then, I decided this shall be my header till I found another one, or maybe when I leave Ukraine. And, just for the information of anyone who accidentally stumble upon this article, the Ukrainian flag is like --- Well, the blue is of course the sky and the yellow for the sunflower. Trust me, it's significant and very obvious. Look at the bouquet of flower below which the authorities has placed it in the main lecture hall of Bogomolets National Medical University in Kyiv. And then, the next picture is the Health Minister of Ukraine, whom I do not know the name. Next, you can see me attending the International Scientific and Practical Conference, which is specially devoted for the World Health Day 2010, hehe.
08.04.2010
And finally, please don't get me wrong. I still love my country --- Malaysia. *wink*

Sunday, 14 March 2010

外公,安息吧!

Every morning the first thing to do when I woke up is to switch on the computer, go online. Today morning, a pop-up of the MSN, from my sister, stating "you know wai gong passed away?"

I signed in to my email. Yes, indeed, my dad sent me an email. My maternal grandfather passed away peacefully on 13th March, funeral will be on the 15th March. Tears dropped. I didn't even manage to see him. The last time I saw him was 2 years ago as I didn't go back Malaysia last year.

I have never heard my parents telling me that he is unhealthy or maybe had any health issues lately. Yes, I know that he has diabetes, high blood pressure, he is somewhat a little fat. But basically these are the main issues that a lot of old people suffers from. I never expect him to go at this time.

Life is very unpredictable. Sometimes, things just happen without us realizing. I am having a very mixed feeling. My maternal grandmother passed away when I was 9 years old. I was too young to really understand what the adults felt that time. Now, I think I understand.

When I first came to Ukraine, my paternal grandfather passed away, now my maternal grandfather has gone. 2 of my grandfather had gone, and I didn't even have a chance to pay my final respect to them.

Life is just so surprising. You never know who will leave you, and you won't know who will join you along your life journey. I have seen my friends here, who lost their parent(s) suddenly , unexpectedly. I know that is even worse. But the point is, you just don't know when God will be calling people around you away. You just don't have any control on who, when, where and how.

Appreciate every second you have with your love ones. You never know when will be the last time you would see them. People may be as healthy as they can be seen, but you never know what will take place the next second. A new movie by Richard Gere "Hachiko - A Dog's Story" is indeed a touching one reflecting how much destiny is not within our control. I bet that the professor would never expect himself to have his last meeting with Hachiko yesterday. I know that the point of the story is about the loyalty of Hachiko, how Hachiko waited for his deceased master for 9 years. But doesn't this also tell us that life is unpredictable?

Don't take things for granted. Love the people around you, tell them you love them, don't wait. You never know when is your last chance. Live your life to the fullest, positively, happily, bring joy to people around you. I know it's easily said than done. It's tough for me too. But, just try our best, k?

"If Today Was Your Last Day"
by Nickelback

My best friend gave me the best advice
He said each day's a gift and not a given right
Leave no stone unturned, leave your fears behind
And try to take the path less traveled by
That first step you take is the longest stride

If today was your last day
And tomorrow was too late
Could you say goodbye to yesterday?
Would you live each moment like your last?
Leave old pictures in the past
Donate every dime you have?
If today was your last day

Against the grain should be a way of life
What's worth the prize is always worth the fight
Every second counts 'cause there's no second try
So live like you'll never live it twice
Don't take the free ride in your own life

If today was your last day
And tomorrow was too late
Could you say goodbye to yesterday?
Would you live each moment like your last?
Leave old pictures in the past
Donate every dime you have?
Would you call old friends you never see?
Reminisce old memories
Would you forgive your enemies?
Would you find that one you're dreamin' of?
Swear up and down to God above
That you finally fall in love
If today was your last day

If today was your last day
Would you make your mark by mending a broken heart?
You know it's never too late to shoot for the stars
Regardless of who you are
So do whatever it takes
'Cause you can't rewind a moment in this life
Let nothin' stand in your way
Cause the hands of time are never on your side

If today was your last day
And tomorrow was too late
Could you say goodbye to yesterday?

Would you live each moment like your last?
Leave old pictures in the past
Donate every dime you have?
Would you call old friends you never see?
Reminisce old memories

Would you forgive your enemies?
Would you find that one you're dreamin' of?
Swear up and down to God above
That you finally fall in love
If today was your last day

外公, 安息吧!

Wednesday, 3 March 2010

Rules Of Marriage

I know, I know, I am not qualified and inexperience to even talk about relationship between couples, what more about marriage? However, I have just come across this interesting short piece of blog from Snippets of My Life --- named "Marriage", mainly talking about the "10 Rules of A Happy Marriage". So these are the main points of the article :

1. Never both be angry at the same time.

2. Never yell at each other unless the house is on fire.

3. If one of you has to win an argument, let it be your mate.

4. If you must criticize, do it lovingly.

5. Never bring up mistakes of the past .

6. Neglect the whole world rather than each other.

7. Never go to sleep with an argument unsettled.

8. At least once every day say a kind or complimentary word to your life partner.

9. When you have done something wrong, admit to it and ask for forgiveness.

10. Remember it takes two to make a quarrel.

Friday, 19 February 2010

CNY Reunion Dinner 2010

Chinese New Year Eve (除夕夜) is an important day in Chinese culture. It is a day where family membes gather together having dinner, symbolizing the reunion of the family. No matter where you are, what are you doing, every family member will try their very best and rush back home for this meaningful day and for this special Reunion Dinner 团圆饭.

But as time goes by, and migration playing such an important role in our modern days, it is rather difficult for each and everyone of us to be around, sitting together on the round table having a meal together. It is either the son is outstation doing business, or maybe children overseas studying, or perhaps daughter still working in some foreign land. However, on this special day, I believe that all of us will remember ... missing the days we sat together with our family, missing home, missing the taste and smell of our mum's delicious food......

No doubt, I miss home. I miss my parents, my siblings. I know that they are always there for us supporting us, loving us, caring for us still. How I miss the firecrackers, the CNY songs that is sounding in the air, the festive season in my hometown. But still I have my semester to finish, my studies to do. Thus, here I am still, in Ukraine.

Fortunately, here in this strange and foreign ex-Soviet country, we have our "family". Our family that supports each of us through. For 6 years, sweet, sour, bitter, salty, spicy, even umami, we have been through. We have gone through the thicks and thins, weather the hurricane (hmm, which event is hurricane enough??? :P) We endured the thick snow of the winter, admired the beautiful flowers of spring, enjoyed the summer breeze, walked the golden leaves of autumn...Are we not a family?

Each year we have our Reunion Dinner. And so have we this year. Just to share with my fellow readers, these were what we had.

~~~ LAO SHENG 捞生 ~~~
(Brandon Teo)

After sprinkling of the sesame and pouring of the sauce


~~~ROASTED GOOSE 烧鸸 ~~~
(Khiu Fu Lung)

~~~ VIETNAMESE SPRING ROLLS 越南春卷 ~~~
(Justin & SeeYee)


~~~ RIBS 红烧排骨 ~~~
(KokTian & CyokNoy)

~~~ LUO HAN ZHAI 罗汉斋 ~~~
(AnnFeng)

~~~ KOU ROU BAO & MUTTON ~~~
扣肉包 与 洋羊得意
KouRou - WeiMin & SyihYing
Bao - Me
Mutton - Izman


~~~ SWEET SOUR FISH 年年有余 ~~~
(Brandon Teo)
~~~ TANG YUAN 汤圆 ~~~
(YanLee)
Hmm, we had double desserts that day. The other one is Tauhu Fa (豆腐花) by Jeffrey but I guess we are just too anxious to eat it, hence we have forgotten to take the picture hehehe. But trust me, his Tauhu Fa taste even better than those we can find in Malaysia. It is so silky smooth, that you will definitely be craving for a second portion.

No matter what dishes we had, it is nothing more important than to know that we have each other. I am sure we all miss our families back home in Malaysia. And I appreciate every friends of mine who are with me, going through the highs & lows of my life. We have shared our happiness and sadness. We quarreled, we fight, we cried and laugh. And these has make up my sweet memories here in Ukraine. May we continue to nurture this invaluable friendship that has been built through the years and may its root grow deeper ... ...
Happy Chinese New Year

&
~ FRIENDSHIP FOREVER ~

Monday, 8 February 2010

* The Lost Treasure *




"The greatest treasures are not gold, nor jewels, nor work of art. They cannot be held in your hands. They are held within your heart. For worldly things will fade away as seasons come and go. But the treasure of true friendship will never lose its glow... ..."

~ Tinker Bell And The Lost Treasure ~

What a meaningful ending! Although this movie is a little bit childish with those fairies, magical dust... Nevertheless, I've enjoyed it a lot. I love those tiny little creatures, those songs that keep the mind young and pure, the beautiful fairies that make your imagination run wild, far and wide...

And most important of all, it reflects ourselves. We are always in denial, refusing to admit that we need help, refusing to acknowledge that we are wrong and in the end we are the ones to make things worse. It is a story for the kids, but in fact, it is a story for young and old, to remind us that we are constantly surrounded by people who love ourselves, who trust us, who see us as who we are. Yet, we often fail to realize this.

Life is a short journey that glows with love and care. Are we not ready to take a step further to appreciate whatever we have in hand and whoever that are around us? Love and appreciate, be brave enough to make amends for any wrongs that we have done, for the opportunity doesn't often come twice, especially for the true friendship, true love and your family :)

Thursday, 7 January 2010

~ Unlightable Candle ~

Sharing? What comes into mind with this simple word "sharing"? Do we need to be very rich to be able to share? Do we need to have everything in the world to be able to share? Must sharing be in a form of material? Or simply anything can be shared?

To me, a simple act of kindness is sharing. It need not to be from someone you know well, it is not a lengthy heart-touching speech, it is not about every diamond and gold that you pour on earth. It may be just a simple smile, a hand that helps in time of despair, an ear that listens, a wisdom/knowledge that is shared together...

I have just returned from the trip to Taize Poznan. There was this one night when everyone entering the hall was given a candle. Somehow I missed it. I was "candleless". I was too lazy to go to the entrance to collect my candle. So, I sat down quietly, praying. Not for the candle, of course.

As the prayer ceremony started, people started to light the candle and pass it on. I was sitting there looking at what people were doing. Basically the whole hall of thousands of youths were trying to light their candles. The guy on my left was looking at me candleless and was looking for some people with lit candles to light up his.

And after a minute or two, I noticed that the girl sitting at my right was trying to melt her candle. She was holding her candle horizontally, and her friend beside her held the other lighted-candle trying to burn the first candle. As it melted the first candle into two, the girl lit the first half and passed the short-halved lit candle to me, smiling, "You can have this."

I took the candle, somehow tears filled my eyes. At that specific moment, I was just touched by her little action. I forgot to mentioned that the second halved candle that she has in hand wasn't able to be lighted, maybe because of the wax that melted from the process of halving the candle. Yet she passed me the lighted half, instead of the waxed half. I passed her back the lighted one, which obviously she refused to accept. But still I exchanged with her. But it was time to blow our candles off. It is a memorable halved candle.

A simple act of sharing is not about every money one has, it's not about sharing the whole world that you have. A simple smile, a simple halved candle is a touching sharing story for me. The candle is broken during my journey back. But for me, it is a memorable unlightable candle that reminds me the true meaning of sharing ... ...

Sunday, 6 December 2009

Boston Cheese Cake II

YES! YES! YES! Successful FINALLY! This is exactly the texture that I am looking for.
And the secret here is due to the cheese! To get this texture, cream cheese bar is used instead of the normal cup cream cheese. I don't know whether these cream cheese bars are available other than Ukraine and Russia. But this is definitely a happy attempt!

I am looking for the cake texture that is depicted here, a little bit powdery yet cheesy, not those that I made last time where the whole layer is just inseparable

Tuesday, 1 December 2009

Bringing Back Memories...

There are plenty of great singers in China's history, from the old past to the modern day. But it really comes back to what type of songs you really fancy and enjoy. So these are only partially of the different singers from different genre and times.

1. 刘文正 Liu Wen Zheng
- 三月里的小雨
- 乡间的小路
- 童年

2. 韩红 (Han Hong)
- 天路

3. Jacky Cheung
- 心如刀割
- 不老的传说

4. Andy Lau
- 一起走过的日子
- 无间道
- 谢谢你的爱

5. 张靓颖 (Jane Chang)
- 天下无双

6. Zhang Hui Mei @ Amei
- 听海
- 牵手

7. Faye Wong
- Eyes On Me
- 红豆
- 梦中人

8. 张明敏 Zhang Ming Min
- 龙的传人
- 我的中国心

9. Beyond
- 海阔天空
-光辉岁月
- 大地

and etc etc


Some good well-known old chinese songs:

1. Cang Hai Yi Sheng Xiao (沧海一声笑)

2. Nan Er Dang Zi Qiang (男儿当自强)

3. Little White Boat (小白船)

4. Seagull (海鸥)

5. 鲁冰花 (Lu Bing Hua)

6. Love at The Dessert (热情的沙漠)

7. Red Dragonfly (红蜻蜓)

8. Fly Butterfly (蝴蝶飞呀)

9. Wishing You a Smooth Sailing (祝你一路顺风)

10. The Crescent Moon Shines Upon the 9 States (月儿弯弯照九州)

11. Maiden of Ali-Mountain (阿里山的姑娘)

12. An Opera about Princess (帝女花)
( English version : http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MwhObrr7bdc&feature=related )

and etc etc

Sunday, 22 November 2009

Quotes From "Bobby"

Watched the movie "Bobby" some time ago. Have been attracted to some of the scripts. Let's learn from it ;)

First :
Conversation between an old married couple
Samantha (Wife) : I bought this dress to go with the black shoes I forgot to pack. I did pack 6 other pairs, none of them black and I have 2 pairs of tennis shoes, just in case you are up to a little game later. See, women have to pack for every occasion making it virtually impossible to travel light. Like tonight is a formal event, so I brought formal wears. But, God has a sense of humour. I bring back up. However, I am doubly screwed. Two dresses, both black and no black shoes. I know, you are probably thinking, “Who the hell cares what colour of shoes she is wearing.” Believe me, Jack, women notice.

Jack (Husband) : So, basically you are saying you need to go shopping, for shoes. Black shoes.

Second :
Jack told Samantha
You are more than the shoes on your feet, or the designer’s dress on your back. You are more than the purse that you carry or the money inside. You and I are more than the stuffs, the things in our lives. Somewhere, in between our things, our stuffs, is us.

Third :
John F. Kennedy's speech (partially quoted)

It’s not a day of politics. I’ve saved this one opportunity, an only event of today to speak briefly to you about the mindless manners of violence in America. But again stains our land and every one of our lives. It’s not the concern of any one race. Victims of the violence are black and white, rich and poor, young and old, famous and unknown. They are most important of all, human beings, whom other human beings, loved and needed.

No one, no matter where he lives or what he does, can be certain who next will suffer, from some senseless act of bloodshed, and yet, it goes on, and on, and on, in this country of ours. Why? What has violence ever accomplished? What has it ever created? Whenever any American’s life is taken by another American unnecessarily, whether it is done in the name of the law or in device of the law, by one man or by a gang, in cold blood or in passion, in an attack of violence or in response to violence, whenever we care of the fabrics of our lives, which another man has painfully and clumsily woven from self and his children, whenever we do this, the whole nation is degraded. Yet we seemingly tolerate a rising level of violence and ignore our common humanity and our claims to civilization alike.

Too often, we are on a swagger and bluster and the wilder of force. Too often, we excuse those who are willing to build their lives on shattered dreams of other human beings. But this much is clear. Violence breeds violence, repression breeds retaliation and only in cleansing of our whole society, can we move this sickness from our souls. But when you teach a man to hate and to fear his brother, when you teach he is a latter man because of his colour, or his beliefs or the policy that he pursues, when you teach those who differed from you, threaten your freedom or your job or your home or your family and you also learn to confront others not as fellow citizens, but as enemies, to be met not with cooperation, but with conquest to be subjugated and to be mastered. We learn at the last to look at our brothers as aliens, alien men with whom we share a city, but not a community.

Men bound to us in common dwelling, but not in a common effort. He learn to share only a common fear, only a common desire to retreat from each other, only a common impulse to meet disagreement with force. Our lives on this planet are too short, the work to be done is too great, to let this spirit to flourish, any longer, in this land of ours.

Of course, we cannot banish with a programme, nor with a resolution. But, we can perhaps remember, if only for a time, that those who live with us are our brothers, that they share with us the same short moment of life, that they seek as do we, nothing, but the chance to live up their lives, in purpose and in happiness, winning what satisfaction and fulfillment that they can.

Surely this bond of common faith, surely this bond of common goals, can begin to teach us something. Surely we can learn at the least to look around at those of us of our fellow country men, and surely we can begin to work a little harder to bind up the wounds among us and to become in our hearts brothers and countrymen once again.

Monday, 2 November 2009

3 Weeks Quarantine

Sad to say, the air is circulating, it has taken its turn in Ukraine. Well, actually with globalization, people flyng in-&-out of a country, it's is hard to control H1N1 epidemics. With the travellers, businessmen...Ukraine has been infected! The latest is 53 deaths and counting.

So, now emergency prophylaxis is taken. Quarantines are ordered in all region of Ukraine, meaning CSMU is included. That's how we have a sudden break of 3 weeks. Now what concerns the CSMU students most is the missed 3-weeks classes. That is a lot and a few solutions may be ...

a) Saturday and Sunday is no more rest day after the quarantine
b) No more winter holidays + Weekends classes
c) Postponed graduation/Shortened summer holidays for the 5th years
d) No exam-preparation break for students

Whatever solutions may be, it just doesn't sound very positive. Sudden news of 3 weeks doesn't really seem to excite everyone, given the possible solutions above. And these 3 weeks, we are theoritically "lock" up in our hostel, or more precisely, in Simferopol. No travelling, no gatherings, even the HOW campaign might have to be delayed.

Worse, some students have already paid for their winter trip tickets. If the winter break was to be cancelled, these $ would be flying to heaven...So now they are probably weighing to forego or not their plans for winter, just like 3 months ago when some students were thinking to forego or not their Euro Trip when H1N1 has just started.

But, the most important thing now is nothing more than to stay healthy and strong. Ukraine now faces the deficiency of medicine and masks, especially when people started purchasing them in bulks. Extra help is needed to combat the uprising epidemic, even from medical students. Mission teams from WHO will be sent to study the flu epidemics in Ukraine.

As for now, I think this 3 weeks of quarantine is the time when your body needs sufficient rest and building up stronger immune system. So, stay in room, keep healthy, rest well...And God bless.

Wednesday, 23 September 2009

F A M I L Y

A touching piece from one of the many forwarded mails...

I ran into a stranger as he passed by, ''Oh excuse me please'' was my reply.
He said, ''Please excuse me too; I wasn't watching for you.''
We were very polite, this stranger and I. We went on our way and we said goodbye.

But at home a different story is told, how we treat our loved ones, young and old...

Later that day, while cooking the evening meal, my son stood beside me very still.
When I turned, I nearly knocked him down.
''Move out of the way,'' I said with a frown.
He walked away, his little heart broken.
I didn't realize how harshly I'd spoken.

While I lay awake in bed, God's still small voice came to me and said,
''While dealing with a stranger, common courtesy you use, but the family you love, you seem to abuse. Go and look on the kitchen floor, you'll find some flowers there by the door. Those are the flowers he brought for you. He picked them himself: pink, yellow and blue. He stood very quietly not to spoil the surprise, you never saw the tears that filled his little eyes.''

By this time, I felt very small, and now my tears began to fall. I quietly went and knelt by his bed;
''Wake up, little one, wake up,'' I said. ''Are these the flowers you picked for me?''

He smiled, ''I found them, out by the tree. I picked them because they're as pretty as you. I knew you'd like them, especially the blue.''

I said, ''Son, I'm very sorry for the way I acted today; I shouldn't have yelled at you that way.''
He said, ''Oh, Mom, that's okay. I love you anyway.''
I said, ''Son, I love you too, and I do like the flowers, especially the blue.''

Are you aware that if we died tomorrow, the company that we are working for could easily replace us in a matter of days. But the family we left behind will feel the loss for the rest of their lives. And come to think of it, we pour ourselves more into work than into our own family, an unwise investment indeed, don't you think?

Father
And
Mother,
I
Love
You!

~~ Dreams Come True ~~

A place to seek for comfort is none better than to
let yourself know that you are actually much fortunate than many others......