cny goodies are expensive!

** Photo on left: Golden Pineapple Tarts from Bakerzin.

Started my CNY goodies shopping today at Chinatown, and then went to Cold Storage @ Takashimaya, Orchard to buy abalone, since I got a $30 Cold Storage voucher.

Chinatown was as usual extremely crowded, but everything year in and out is almost the same - 95% of all the stalls were selling Taiwan jellies, which are definitely overpriced, becayse they sell it at cut-throat prices!

But in the end, I only bought garlic peanuts from my usual stall, "King of Melon Seeds". Of all the peanuts I've eaten, the garlic peanuts from "King of Melon Seeds" were the best!.. its priced at $14 per kg.

After that, before we left for Orchard, I went to pre-order and paid my usual Bak Kwa from Kim Hock Guan.. though there are many players in the market, but because I would only be interested in buying the chilli flavour, and from many I have tasted, Kim Hock Guan is still the best.. but it is a little hard in texture, because it uses lean meat. Paid $50 for it, because I order 1 kg.

** Photo on right: Champagne Raisin cookies from Home's Favourite.

After that, we made our way to Orchard, and surprisingly, it was quite deserted. Went to Cold Storage @ Takashimaya and got the abalone. Before that, I went to purchase the pineapple tarts from Bakerzin, which surprisingly offers 10% discount to consumers who pay with Citibank credit card - they did not say anything, and fortunately I asked! So after the 10% discount, I paid $16.10, because it was $17.95 before discount.

Then just when I was about to exit Takashimaya, I made a visit to the atrium, and saw Home Favourite's cookies, and low and behold, I got blown off by the Champagne Raisin cookies (which is one of their best seller), that I immediately bought one tin after tasting it! This is indeed very different, and not present in any of my relative's house.. So if they really do come, at least can offer them something which is very different.
It is currently priced at $23.80 before discount, but because they are offering a 10% discount to all customers (despite whether you use credit card or not), I got it for $21.40 after discount..

Thereafter, I proceeded to iStudio @ Paragon, to get a new cover for my iPhone, as the current one I have causes marks on the sideways of the screen, and it looks like it covers everything, so look super bulky..
Now that I've changed it to hard plastic, and it only covers only the side, it looks actually very sleek and nice.. Just the way I like it =D
Moreover, the colour of the cover is metallic purple colour, therefore, it is very nice lah =)

Had a good dinner with family at Food Republic in Wisma Atria, before coming home to blog this post, and then turn in for the night.
I did not sleep well yesterday night, and therefore, now must compensate, or else, next week don't know what lies ahead at work.

Oh well.. I just love my iPhone now more each day!

An apple fanatic,
<<< abriel >>>

goodbye joshua

Didn't sleep well yesterday because ya.. sadly.. I cried for about 30 minutes.. its nothing much lah.. just that my good buddy in church, Joshua, will be leaving Singapore for Tasmania (Australia), to do his honours in Law studies.
So feeling very much sad, because he will only be back in November 2010.

Why I cried is because our friendship had started way back in my previous church, HCC, and that was probably about 10 years ago..
We've enjoyed each other's company, and have started to "suan" each other ever since.. so ya..
So you can imagine since our friendship has already gone back so way back since, definitely I would somewhat miss him lah..

Okay.. better not talk anymore, because I think my tear ducts are active again..
Lest I cry again.. =(

Goodbye Joshua (my buddy and friend),
<<< abriel >>>

a touching letter

"Love Letter from God"
The above video was shared during service today, and I was indeed encouraged, touched and of course, teared a little..
View it and you know..

God's child forever,
<<< abriel >>>

** Below are the words of this video:

My Child,

You may not know me, but I know everything about you.
Psalm 139:1

I know when you sit down and when you rise up.
Psalm 139:2

I am familiar with all your ways.
Psalm 139:3

Even the very hairs on your head are numbered.
Matthew 10:29-31

For you were made in my image.
Genesis 1:27

In me you live and move and have your being.
Acts 17:28

For you are my offspring.
Acts 17:28

I knew you even before you were conceived.
Jeremiah 1:4-5

I chose you when I planned creation.
Ephesians 1:11-12

You were not a mistake, for all your days are written in my book.
Psalm 139:15-16

I determined the exact time of your birth and where you would live.
Acts 17:26

You are fearfully and wonderfully made.
Psalm 139:14

I knit you together in your mother's womb.
Psalm 139:13

And brought you forth on the day you were born.
Psalm 71:6

I have been misrepresented by those who don't know me.
John 8:41-44

I am not distant and angry, but am the complete expression of love.
1 John 4:16

And it is my desire to lavish my love on you.
1 John 3:1

Simply because you are my child and I am your Father.
1 John 3:1

I offer you more than your earthly father ever could.
Matthew 7:11

For I am the perfect father.
Matthew 5:48

Every good gift that you receive comes from my hand.
James 1:17

For I am your provider and I meet all your needs.
Matthew 6:31-33

My plan for your future has always been filled with hope.
Jeremiah 29:11

Because I love you with an everlasting love.
Jeremiah 31:3

My thoughts toward you are countless as the sand on the seashore.
Psalms 139:17-18

And I rejoice over you with singing.
Zephaniah 3:17

I will never stop doing good to you.
Jeremiah 32:40

For you are my treasured possession.
Exodus 19:5

I desire to establish you with all my heart and all my soul.
Jeremiah 32:41

And I want to show you great and marvelous things.
Jeremiah 33:3

If you seek me with all your heart, you will find me.
Deuteronomy 4:29

Delight in me and I will give you the desires of your heart.
Psalm 37:4

For it is I who gave you those desires.
Philippians 2:13

I am able to do more for you than you could possibly imagine.
Ephesians 3:20

For I am your greatest encourager.
2 Thessalonians 2:16-17

I am also the Father who comforts you in all your troubles.
2 Corinthians 1:3-4

When you are brokenhearted, I am close to you.
Psalm 34:18

As a shepherd carries a lamb, I have carried you close to my heart.
Isaiah 40:11

One day I will wipe away every tear from your eyes.
Revelation 21:3-4

And I'll take away all the pain you have suffered on this earth.
Revelation 21:3-4

I am your Father, and I love you even as I love my son, Jesus.
John 17:23

For in Jesus, my love for you is revealed.
John 17:26

He is the exact representation of my being.
Hebrews 1:3

He came to demonstrate that I am for you, not against you.
Romans 8:31

And to tell you that I am not counting your sins.
2 Corinthians 5:18-19

Jesus died so that you and I could be reconciled.
2 Corinthians 5:18-19

His death was the ultimate expression of my love for you.
1 John 4:10

I gave up everything I loved that I might gain your love.
Romans 8:31-32

If you receive the gift of my son Jesus, you receive me.
1 John 2:23

And nothing will ever separate you from my love again.
Romans 8:38-39

Come home and I'll throw the biggest party heaven has ever seen.
Luke 15:7

I have always been Father, and will always be Father.
Ephesians 3:14-15

My question is… Will you be my child?
John 1:12-13

I am waiting for you.
Luke 15:11-32

Love, Your Dad
Almighty God

nex - the shopping mall @ serangoon

Behold!! nex @ Serangoon will be the mall of the North-East!! Don't believe? See the following tenants (correct as of 19 October 2009)..
Wonder if Starbucks will be one of the tenants.. hmm.. I hope lah! =D

Anchor tenants:
- Isetan
- Shaw Cineplex (10 Screens)
- Fairprice Xtra
- Cold Storage
- Food Junction (500 seats)
- Food Republic
- Shokutsu 10
- Courts
- Challenger
- Virtualand
- Party World
- Pet Safari

Other tenants:
- 75 Ah Balling Peanut Soup
- Adonis
- BBQ Delights
- Bali Thai
- Bata
- Beijing 101
- BlueEyes USA
- Breadtalk
- Bubble Queue / Herbal Tea
- Buy Away
- CA Bags
- Charles & Keith
- Charlotte Nails
- Citigems
- Citispa
- City Chain
- Comics Connection
- DMK
- Dian Xiao Er
- Din Tai Fung
- EC House
- Estetica
- Eu Yan Sang
- Eye Bejewelled
- Eyechamp Optometrists
- F.L.Y
- Forntieer
- Four Seasons Durians
- Fragrance Foodstuff
- GNC
- Goldheart
- Guardian Health & Beauty
- Hair Inn
- Happy Veg
- Hearts on Fire
- Helen
- Hockhua Tonic
- Hong Guo
- Hot Tomato Cafe & Grill
- I.L.T. 96
- Jack's Place
- Japanese Gourmet Town
- Jasonally Hairdressers
- Jean Yip Hub
- Jia Xiang Mee
- Jollibean
- Kiyo
- Kohong Fish Spa
- LG Concept Store
- Lai Lai Casual Dining
- Laserflair
- Lee Hwa Jewellery
- Lee Wee & Brothers' Foodstuff
- Leonard Drake Skincare & Heath Spa
- Long John Silver's
- Lu Gang Xiao Zhen
- The Asian Kitchen
- M1
- MM1
- M0F My Izakaya
- Mad Jack
- Mary Chia
- Maybank
- Maestrologic
- mondo
- Minoshe
- My Mum's Porridge
- Mystique
- NK Hairworks
- Nanyang Optical
- Nature's Farm
- Newstead Technologies
- Northern Opticians
- Nubox
- Old Chang Kee
- Ooiki Taiyaki
- Oriental Herbal Tea
- Osmose
- Polar Puffs & Cakes
- Pu Tien
- QB House
- Red 2
- Reds Hairdressing
- SK Jewellery
- Say Cheeze
- SELFFIX DIY
- Sense
- Shihlin Taiwan Street Snacks
- Shojikiya
- Siam Kitchen
- Silvera
- Singtel Exclusive Retailer
- Soo Kee Jewellery
- Soup Restaurant
- Spectacle Hut
- Sportslink
- Standard Chartered Bank
- Starhub Exclusive Partner
- Supercuts
- Sushi Tei
- Sweettalk
- Swensen's Cafe Restaurant
- TS
- Tenderfresh
- The Ship Restaurant
- Tian Po Jewellery
- Tora Shabu
- Trendscentral
- Universal Optical
- Urban Homme
- Wan Chai Hong Kong Tea Room
- Watson's Personal Care Stores
- Xian De Lai
- Xpressflower.com
- Ya Kun Toastwich
- Young Hearts
- ZTP

couldn't resist such nice shoes @ rockstar [by soon lee]!

Saw this shop on the programme (New City Beat) on Channel 8 just the past Friday, and chanced upon this segment where they introduce some shopping places.. and this shop, "rockstar", was introduced..

Decided to check it out, since I have some interest to buy something for my CNY outfit.. and there I went.. its a very spacious shop, but everything is very artistic.. just the way I like it.. no loud music and all.. everything seems to take a slow pace when you go there and shop!

So tried on 2 pairs of interested shoes, and I chose the one which you see above in the photo (its from a UK brand called pointers)... it cost me $189, but because the top is leather and canvas, so that's why I have to pay a little more lah..

But the pattern is nice right? Something different also!!

Anyway, they have a blog to showcase their products - so you can view it first before you choose what you want to buy.. However, do note that their stuff has limited stocks, so once its finished, its really finished!.. so ya.. you have to hurry if you aim something..
Click here to view the website!

Now, I can safely say that rockstar [by soon lee] is one of my favourite shops now.. will visit it again if have the chance! =)

Yoodles,
<<< abriel >>>

my music buys @ hmv

Today didn't started well.. Some courier company (which I will not say who) just got my nerves, and it burst my last patient bubble.. I blared off at the person in charge by saying that they don't understand english, because for a fact, I had issued them a letter of notice in advance.. telling them what are the changes to be done on the courier slip, and 1 year later, when they send, it is still the same mistake.. so ya.. for you in my position, I'm sure you would be super angry right! Arghh~

** Photo on left: My newly bought CDs

But all was not lost.. went for some retail therapy lah.. but its not anything fantastic.. just some CDs!!

Actually didn't plan to purchase any, but because I was in Citylink, and I was on the way to Yes! Eyewear at Suntec City.. so it was on the way.. popped into hmv and bam! 2 CDs were in my hand.. so ya.. oh well.. Support Singapore music mah =)

But Joi Chua CD is really good.. I am also a fan of hers! Her songs are always so touching and most of the time, it never fails to put a small tear in my eye!

Guess what! I think it was God's blessing on me or something.. I did remember that last time when I booked my trip, I only pay like $145 for a to and fro trip (without taxes and surcharges), but just a check at the website yesterday, it went up to a whopping $200 (without taxes and surcharges)! Scary huh.. it was only a matter of 2 weeks!

Then you want to know what's best? I went to the hotel website (Baiyoke Sky), and the promotion was somewhat over.. They didn't advertise it anymore.. It was some CNY rates but there was no sign of promotion.. so don't know whether after CNY, will they put back the promotion loh.. so ya.. but at that time when I book, it was only left with 10 rooms.. so ya.. How true is that I really do not know lah.. so ya..

Overall, had a very satisfying day today (of course minus the courier company experience).. so yupz..

Looking forward for the weekend,
<<< abriel >>>

A lazy Sunday afternoon

Didn't go out today, so stay at home to just surf the net, and this video is really good.. If only I can play like that..


Gospel Medley -
"Great Is Thy Faithfulness", "Amazing Grace", "Center of My Joy"

Enjoy!

Outta here for more Youtube,
<<< abriel >>>

The food trip!

Ok.. I've found it.. I've found it.. The "Moo Tawd Katiem", which is actually fried slice pork with garlic.. this is the one which I have started to fall in love when I was in Thailand for my business trip.. everywhere I couldn't find it, but I finally found it today.. and its none other than Aroy-Dee Thai Place @ Sunshine Plaza!

It was exactly the taste that I've tasted in Thailand!! Am going to find this again when I'm going back to Thailand for holiday in March 2010!

You may ask why I'm there.. all thanks to my bro, Andrew, who brought me, Alvin & Maween there to have dinner after service.. and when I saw that "moo tawd katiem", my eyes lit up with glee..

Then as usual, both Andrew & myself actually think alike.. after that, we go eat tau huey at Rocher beancurd.. =)

So ya.. that wraps up a very satisfying dinner and food trip for me.. and if you ask me whether I would go back to Aroy-Dee Thai Place, definitely!!.. I want my "Moo Tawd Katiem"!
Bro, bring me there again!!! Yummy!

The address of Aroy-Dee Thai Place is as follows:
91 Bencoolen St
01-12 Sunshine Plaza
Singapore, Singapore
Phone : 63368852

I love Thai food,
<<< abriel >>>

MacDonald's rox!!

The MEGA BEEF PROSPERITY burger meal @ MacDonald's!
Had it for dinner today, and man.. its one the best burger that MacDonald's has produced!
This one you must eat the MEGA, and then, it would be shiok!! The beef patties were really juicy and man.. I can't describe it further, because believe it or not, I'm salivating right now *slurps*

However, I have never like twister fries, and therefore, I didn't bother to change it.. changing to twister fries is another additional 50 cents.. so expensive.. I don't like lah..

The Beef Prosperity Meal (ie. only with 1 patty of beef) = $7.10 w/o upsize
The Mega Beef Prosperity Meal (ie. with 2 patties of beef) = $8.40 w/o upsize

Its only for a limited time only.. so go try try.. very nice.. I promise you won't regret.. eat it whilst its hot.. ohh.. stop it.. ahhhh..

I love the Mmmooooooo meat,
<<< abriel >>>

Oriental all the way...

It was my Company's treat, for working so hard in the Wellness Committee for the past 1 year. We were treated to an oriental (aka asian) food buffet spread at Straits Kitchen, Grand Hyatt Hotel Singapore!

The spread is quite extensive I must say (Peranakan, Indian, Malay and Chinese), but the food not everything is nice.. The must-tries are as follows:
- "Buddha Jump Over The Wall" soup
- Carrot Cake
- Gado Gado
- Soursop Sorbet
- Prawns
- Char Kway Teow

It has also black pepper crabs (heard not very fresh.. haha), soya sauce chicken, roast duck, dumpling soup, muah chee, local hot desserts (cheng teng, red bean soup, green bean soup), malay kueh kueh (such as kueh lapis), buah keluak, BBQ stingray (not very nice, becos too dry), satay (beef, mutton and chicken), mix veges stir fry, etc..
(This is a halal buffet, so don't expect things like pork ribs and all!)

Some others I didn't try, so can't comment.. so ya.. but generally if you like oriental/asian food, pls. go try.. its good! Weekdays and weekends are charged the same price: $45++/pax.
Quite reasonable, considering it is in Orchard area.. so ya.. If got the chance, I will go back there again =D

Happy eating,
<<< abriel >>>

Sawadee-khrap

Just last Thursday (the day where I went to pay up for my CNY reunion dinner at Pearl River Palace Restaurant), after that, met up with Marcus (who is one of my besties).. we had agreed that we would go to Thailand sometime together last year, but it didn't happen.. and man.. it shall happen this year, 2010!.. and what a way to start off the year..
We have somewhat discuss the itinerary already, and guess what.. I have already proceeded to book the air tickets (via Jetstar - which is my first time taking a budget airline, because Oct 2010, plan to go to Taiwan/Hong Kong with my travel kakkis.. so ya.. so can't afford to spend so much)..

** Photo on left: Baiyoke Sky Hotel (the tallest hotel in Bangkok!)

And I actually got a good deal in terms of accomodation.. I'm staying at the Baiyoke Sky Hotel whereby it costs about 7200++ baht per nite (Lvl 64-74), but there is a promotion now, and that is it only cost 4500 nett per nite, and the best part? You only pay for 2 nites instead of the 3 nites we stay in.. Good deal huh? So in total, I only pay 9000 baht nett for accomodation! Hope no other hidden cost loh.. haha..
I calculated that if I were to stay the same hotel I did 2 yrs back when I first visited Bangkok, it would have cost about 7000+ for 3 nites, but the hotel is very dilapilated.. but not for Baiyoke Sky.. heard quite posh!

And I've learnt one thing.. book yourself all the accomodation and air ticket is much cheaper than engaging a tour agent and getting it as F&E package.. of course, the airport transfer is not counted in, but this is my 3rd time to Bangkok already.. so roughly know how they work.. so not really a problem!

Anyway, below are my flight details:

Sat - 27 Mar 2010
Flight Number: 3K511
Departure: Singapore Changi International Airport (Terminal 1), 0715 hrs (SIN time)
Arrival: Suvarnabhumi Airport, Bangkok, Thailand, 0835 hrs (BKK time)

Tue - 30 Mar 2010
Flight Number: 3K514
Departure: Suvarnabhumi Airport, Bangkok, Thailand, 2115 hrs (BKK time)
Arrival: Singapore Changi International Airport (Terminal 1), 0030 hrs (SIN time) - 31 Mar 2010

Yupz.. I'm back to Sawadee-khrap land once more.. Woohoo~

I love Pad Thai and Tom Yum Goong,
<<< abriel >>>

CNY Reunion Dinner 2010 booked!

Yes.. after a year's hitus, my family is back at Pearl River Palace for our annual CNY reunion dinner..

And I have actually paid and reserve in advance.. but to my amazement, they have quite a lot of reservations already.. so they work in the way that when you pay in full, then your seat would be reserved.. so ya..

Wanna know what I would be having on that day? Read on..

Properous Tiger Menu (4 pax)

- Yu Sheng with Norwegian Salmon
- Braised Superior Shark's Fin with Fish Maw, Crab Meat and Enoki Mushroom
- Sauteed Scallop and Prawns in X.O. Chillu Sauce served in Golden Nest
- Steamed Sea Bass in Superior Soy Sauce
- Braised Sea Cucumber, King Topshell, Drief Oyster, Flower Mushroom with Pork Knuckle and Black Moss served in Claypot
- Braised Ee-Fu Noodles with Enoki Mushrooms and Mushroom in Abalone Sauce
- Chilled Mango Sago with Pomelo

** Of the above dishes, I have request for a change of the fish and dessert, because they were not very good..
The original fish is some deep fried goby fish, which I don't like, and therefore, I take the steamed sea bass in superior soy sauce.. better..
Another is the dessert.. originally, they wanted to give me Chilled Mango Sago with Pomelo and Red Ruby, but then think again, it may have coconut.. so I took off the red ruby and just like it au dante.. Mango sago with pomelo =)

Total cost of the menu: $268++

Though expensive, but it is worth it lah.. never expected so many dishes.. haha..
But my sister because she is working, she is paying $100, and I will foot the rest of the bill.. so ya..

Can't wait for CNY 2010 to come,
<<< abriel >>>

Toiletries rule my world.. haha.. =P

** Photo on left: Lab Series for Man Skincare Products

Okay peepz.. I spend on something again.. I spend quite a sum on toiletries, and one of it is what you see on the left.. A few products from "Lab Series for Men"..
(I don't care if you call me "bu yao lian - ai mei" guy.. becos my complexion is bad le.. Need to take care!)..

I always wanted to try this range of skincare products, becos my face has really got sensitive skin, and got a case of a slight ezecma at certain spots on my face.. And you do know that my face is like already so "chui" already (ie. complexion not very good lah), and if I don't take care, it maybe worst..

So I'm taking this huge gamble to invest in something expensive, and see whether it is effective..

So the following is what I bought:

(a) Power Wash (250 ml) - $46
- This is an face cleanser.

(b) Instant Moisture Gel (100 ml) - $80
- This is a moisturiser, which is super effective.. According to the brochures, it said it provides an extra 36% of moisture.. haha.. wonder how true.. haha..

(c) Water Lotion (200 ml) - $57
- This is a toner, which will help to tighten skin pores, hydrates and comfort skin!

My total bill come up to $183, and becos I bought so much, I got a exclusive "Lab series for men" square toiletry bag and the person has given me quite a number of samples (and I'm not kidding.. they really got samples.. its like they are selling some kind of cosmetic/perfume, etc), ranging from other products which I have not bought (like the SPF 15 moisturizer, age rescue face lotion [which is really good btw.. am applying now, and felt the difference on my face.. guess I'm getting old.. haha..], razor burn lotion, etc)..

So I'm gonna use the samples first before I use the ones I bought!
Looks quite impressive for this first product I applied tonight (just before I wrote this blogpost) - Age Rescue Face Lotion..
If really this range of products helps to improve my face, then I guess ah, in future, my pocket is gonna burn a hole.. I thought my current URIAGE range is enough to kill, but this "Lab Series for Men" is worst.. haha.. oh well.. no choice.. I want my looks, so I have to be willing to pay a price for it!

But I'm happy with my purchase lah.. Because I have been toying with the idea of this "Lab Series for Men" range for quite some time already.. so ya..

** Photo on right: Adidas Action 3 Control Deodorant Spray

Then I passed by Watsons @ Takashimaya, and saw this new Adidas deodorant spray range was on offer.. $7.50 before a 20% discount.. Moreover, I got a FREE 250ml Adidas Pulse shower foam with every bottle of this new deodorant spray!
I bought 2 bottles of it since its a necessity.. so ya.. quite refreshing.. you should go smell one yourself if there is a chance..

There are 4 types of scents for you to choose from.. I more of a kind of limonene fragrance kind of person, so I took the one called "Control", which is the one you see in the photo on the right!

So ya.. also treated my parents to a coffee break at Coffee Club, Ngee Ann City, which costs me $22.88 after a 10% Citibank card discount.. so ya..

So ya.. that's my day.. I know I spend a lot..
But all I bought was my essentials =)

I love my "Lab Series for Men" products,
<<< abriel >>>

Happy New Year 2010 !!

** Photo on left: Group of NS friends whom we have not met each other like for about 3 years already!! Eating steamboat at Xian De Lai, Bugis

Just reached home not too long ago, so this is gonna be quite a short one.. so ya.. just finished bathing, and waiting for my hair to dry.. =)

Anyway, this is a countdown event which was ultra special.. because I have never done a countdown event with my NS friends! All of us were NS bunk mates at my unit, but we have never really gone out before, like today..

So under my friend's recommendation, I have decided to call like some of the more familiar ones to join us for the dinner.. so ya.. so there you go.. =)

** Photo on right: Dessert time at Coffee Club, Marina Square

One of my friends, Karyan, had to go off as he is going home to countdown to the new year with his parents.. so its the rest of us heading to Coffee Club @ Marina Square, for dessert and just chit-chat.

We ordered our own drinks (with me ordering my usual, Ice Earl Vanilla) and their signature dessert, Muddy Mud Pie, to share.. and it was so good.. haha.. And because it is super warm and humid outside, we sat for a while and then proceeded a little cam-whoring with my Canon IXUS camera.. haha..
The aircon and seats at Coffee Club were so comfortable, that it made me almost want to sleep.. haha.. but oh well.. Nothing to do, so camwhore loh.. =P

** Photo on left: My favourite firework shot (Marina Bay Countdown 2009) of the nite!

It was about 2145 hrs that we left Coffee Club to Marina Bay.. and guess what.. everywhere got block by police and all.. and it was only about 2220 hrs, that we finally reached Esplanade.. so ya.. its that bad!!
The crowd was also like too squeezy, that at some time of the walking, I felt giddy.. it could be the lack of oxygen.. so ya..

Then we walked and walked onto the Esplanade bridge footpath, and found a space to sit.. The time was 2230 hrs, and we are half and hour into the new year!

The wind was really cool, and we just chat about anything under the sun.. all these just to pass time only..

When the time came to be 2357 hrs, everyone was in high spirits, and at the stroke of midnight, suddenly everyone was so excited, and then fireworks began to lit up the sky.. that's where I whipped out my camera and just take only..

My camera is not those super good kind, and therefore, it only can take photos not consectively but at intervals.. so ya.. so not fireworks were shot are reflected in this blogpost..

** Photo on right: Another of my favourite firework shot at Marina Bay Countdown 2009!

There are more photos of this event (including fireworks) in my Facebook, so if you wish to view them and you are a friend of mine in Facebook, pls. go login to your Facebook and see those pics.. so ya..

Judging from my "dumbness" in photography and a slow camera, getting those shots were considered good enough for me, though most of it appeared a little blurry.. haha.. but at least I tried =)

As the fireworks shot in the sky, I teared a little, becos it was a very touching moment, and suddenly, all of the bad things in Year 2009 just flashed past me, and its like the fireworks were it shot up and vanish into thin air.. so ya.. a little emotional there, but still no tear was seen.. =)

Then after the whole thing finish, the next hurdle to cross is going home.. It was a lot of people again, and I'm so glad I manage to do so.. I estimated my time to reach home was 0130 hrs this morning, and true enough, I was spot on!

As mentioned earlier, I just finished bathing, and now blog this blogpost, before turning in for the nite.. super tired le..

Ok.. this blogpost is done.. finally!
It's almost 0200 hrs already.. ZZZZZzzzzzzZZZ..

The fireworks are beautiful,
<<< abriel >>>

Another Christmas Splurge

Just when you thought I have splurged enough and save for my planned 2 holidays (Bangkok and Taiwan/Hong Kong) in 2010, you are wrong..
I spend money again.. sigh.. but not as much as 2 days back lah..

Here is a lowdown of my damage:

2 Ashworth 100% cotton bermudas bought from Robinsons: $88.20 (UP: $178)
1 Adidas Black Climacool cotton Polo-tee: $49

Told you I can't get enough of Adidas stuff.. Heard from the stuff that this Climacool cotton polo-tee, they are clearing stock, and by next year, they will phase out this material.. sad.. =(

Anyway, I got mine le, and that's all it matters =)

So with that said, my damage today is $137.20, and if there were no savings, I could have paid up to $227 for my purchases today *gulp*..

So ya.. I really need to save money le.. Cross your fingers that I'm not going to spend again.. Yikes..

The New Year weekend is coming,
<<< abriel >>>

Christmas Splurge again *gulps*

Man.. I can't stop shopping and eating.. here is my damage today:

Lunch @ Yan Palace Restaurant (gave my parents a treat): $45.60
Stuff bought from Robinsons: $30.02 (UP: $41.70)
2 T-shirts from Espirit: $38.10 (UP: $49.80)
3 Dry-fit Polo T-shirts from Pan West: $2 (UP: $57) <-- Got a $55 Pan West voucher from an anonynomous person in my company gift exchange
1 Adidas Nightred Polo T-shirt (ClimaLite Cotton): $49
Dinner @ Soup Restaurant, Paragon (gave my parents a treat again): $70.40

Total damage today: $235.12
Because of the discounts and gift voucher, I had saved a total of $78.38, or else, the total bill is a whopping $313.50..

Sigh.. I can't seem to get enough of Adidas stuff.. but I love shopping! =D

Shopping is the best therapy,
<<< abriel >>>

Family Christmas Dinner 2009

** Photo on left: Family @ CafeVic, Carlton Hotel, for our annual Christmas Dinner 2009

Phew! Time pass so fast.. its like just 1 year ago that we had our Christmas dinner @ Copthorne King's Hotel.. and 1 yr later, its Christmas again, and this time, it is actually at CafeVic in Carlton Hotel, Singapore.

CafeVic was the same restaurant where I had earlier in the month, came and dine with my overseas colleagues who were down for the marathon). And I'm glad that I've made a good choice, because my parents enjoyed it a lot.. =D



** Photo on right: My meat platter! - One of the meats on the plate is actually roasted rabbit meat! Guess which one! *Hint: Its near the ham!

The spread was quite sufficient. It is actually better than Orchard Hotel.. haha.. but the price also very nice.. CafeVic is charging me at $72++ per adult.. so ya..

Anyway with that said, the photo you see on the right is my ONLY meat platter for the night, and on that plate you see, is 1 piece of roasted RABBIT meat! And yes.. you saw it right.. roasted RABBIT meat!!
If you guess it right, the rabbit meat is the one that is just to the right of the thick slice of honey baked ham. The taste was a little weird.. it taste just like chicken, but its just that at the end when you are done with chewing and you want to swallow, some part tasted a little bit sourish (just a slight sour taste!).. And I didn't like one bit of it.. haha..


** Photo on left: My favourite dessert of the nite - Unadulterated mixed berries!! Woohoo~

I had like some of the seafood like raw oysters, sashimi and all.. but I didn't took photo of it.. paiseh..

However, the photo you see on the left was my favourite dessert of the nite! Apparently, you can take whatever berries that is available, and the toppings would either be icing sugar or fresh cream.. and of course, I would go for the icing sugar!


There were altogether 5 different berries in this photo -
(a) Gooseberry
(b) Raspberry
(c) Blueberry
(d) Blackberry
(e) Strawberry

And I tell you.. it was the most fantastic dessert that any restaurant can offer, and because of this dessert, CafeVic is getting brownie points from me =D

** Photo on right: Pineapple sorbet with mix barries!

Then came the conquering of the ice-cream counter!
I have actually wanted to take the chocolate and pecan ice-cream, but there was no more, so I had to settle for the pineapple sorbet, which was good! I added in the raspberries, strawberries and various toppings and man, it taste even better! =)

I think this would be enough to make me hungry, becos' too much acidic fruit le.. haha..


** Photo on left: The chocolate platter

Then I proceeded to my favourite dessert section, and low and behold, I had the chocolate counter.. haha.. so I took log cakes, choclates and some other chocolate stuff! And man.. the chocolate is really good, because they are bitter! Yummy!

But I reckon the calorie intake of this is super high, but I don't care.. One year one time only leh =D

Besides, people also say chocolate makes one happy, which I guess I am even right now as I write this blog =)

** Photo on right: My usual "smile to the camera" picture!

Shortly after we are done with the food, we started to camwhore.. and that is where I've used some of my photo apps in my iPhone.. and the results were not too bad..
But too bad I'm not a photographer lah, or else the photos would be nicer..

If you have noticed, I'm actually wearing my new spec.. haha.. Not too bad right? My mum said my outfit today looks like a PE teacher.. haha.. so flattered loh! =P


** Photo on right: The Christmas lightings at Raffles City

After we have finished our dinner, we proceeded home.. and on the way, guess what.. the Christmas lightings were too nice to be missed.. so I've decided to whip out my camera and just take the lightings!

Wonder how much and how long they take to plan, and all.

The weather was also cooling.. and its like as if we are experiencing some kind of cold chill.. haha... its been a while since there is such a chill loh!





** Photo on right: Another look at the Christmas lighting in the Marina Bay vacinity!

People were also whipping out their cameras to take the lights..

I saw one uncle (should be about 60 yrs), actually is an avid photographer! He mounted his XLR onto a tripod, and he started clicking away.. machiam the lights are fireworks.. haha.. but oh well.. people take it as their hobby mah... Cannot blame them lah..


** Photo on left: Precious (my dog) wearing the "Robin Hood" hat which was complimentary from Carlton Hotel

Then came home, and then proceeded to camwhore the photos with my dog.. and man.. ain't see cute!!

When my mum put it on top of Precious, she was so scared that she didn't move.. My mum need to coax her, so that she would let us take the photo.

Of course, Precious struggled with my mum when the cap was to be put on her!





** Photo on right: Little Miss Precious (my dog) wearing the princess crown (courtesy of Carlton Hotel as well!)

Then came another crown. This time, its like a Princess crown..

And again, Precious struggled initially in the beginning, but after that, she sat so still and wait for us to take photo of her!

Not only does this camera has my dog'S (Precious), pictures, my iPhone also has quite a number of her pics.. my dog is simply adorable!





** Photo on left: Awww.. giving little Miss Precious (my dog) Princess, a kiss!

And the photo you see on the left is my favourite photo.. so cute rite? It simply took my breathe away.. sigh..
But she look very cute right =)

Anyway, CafeVic is a good place for such occasions.. Think will go back there again someday =D



Loving my Christmas weekend,
<<< abriel >>>

My Christmas damage so far...

** Photo on left: My new Reebook spectacles!

I was actually trying to save money, but in the end, I spent on 3 essential stuff.. the first being my new Reebok spectacles, where I actually claim the remaining $93 from my flexible benefit entitlement from my company, because it would be forfeited by December 2009 if not utilised.. so ya..

However, there wasn't any nice frames around, except for this Reebok one, which costs $240 after discount (before discount, it was $350!).. so I topped up $147 on my own loh..

I actually wanted to choose the cheaper ones, but then, it don't look good at all.. so no choice loh.. have to buy this Reebok spectacles! They are not bad rite =)

** Photo on right: New JJ Lin CD - 100 Days

And all my friends know me that I'm a JJ Lin fanatic.. so of course with my favourite singer coming out with a new album, how can don't support? Haha..

Went to HMV today to get a copy loh.. not cheap leh.. its $24.. dun koe why so ex.. but ya..

Have listened to the CD and find it quite appealing.. it is a lot of R&B and a little jazz feel in some of the tracks (which I feel its a good mix!).. so ya.. don't regret a single bit loh =)

** Photo on left: Soft-copies of the professional self-portrait photo taken during Cerebos D&D 2009!

And whilst waiting for my specs to be ready, I went up to "Picture Me" to go purchase the soft-copies of the photo which was taken at my D&D 2009 just last week!

I took quite a while to decide because not very cheap!.. But 3 out of 5 photos were so nice, that after much consideration, I decided to purchase it, and that cost me a whopping $60 bucks for 3 soft-copy photos.. expensive lah.. but I think its worth it.. its not like everyday I have professional photographers taking a photo of me.. haha.. Oh well..

So if my Maths doesn't fail me, I've spent like a total of $230.95 in a matter of 2 hrs (becos' all 3 items were bought in a time period of 2 hrs!).. scary huh.. it works out to spending $1.92 every minute.. scary!! Ahhh...

But with that said, I still like shopping.. haha..

Came home, and then bought dinner (hor fun) from the chi-zhar stall opposite, and just finished my dinner not long ago, before I actually started to write this blogpost.. so ya..

Ok lah.. gtg and sign off le.. =)

Tired and love shopping,
<<< abriel >>>

Lab Christmas Dinner 2009

This is the first time we are attempting this, but think it is a good idea.. May continue for a few years.. haha.

And of course, it was under my recommedation.. Wanted to go to Merchant Court Hotel, but they only have al-fresco dining, which is not very feasible lah.. If it rains, it would be a problem! so ya..

Food was not too bad.. Love the sea cucumber and raw oysters though.. I love the raw oysters so much, that I ate 7 of them.. haha.. shiok! My record still stands at 7.. wonder when I can hit that target of more than 7.. haha..

Oh well.. then after I took bus 105 back, and now, I'm still full.. man.. More buffets wait for me in the coming weeks.. *sigh*..

Raw oysters are shiok stuff!,
<<< abriel >>>

The Line @ Shangri-La Hotel

The clique who went to The Line @ Shangri-La Hotel
As if its not enough eating for the month of December, I proceeded to The Line @ Shangri-La Hotel for dinner today.. all in the name to celebrate my ex-church mate, Wendy, birthday.. it is usually whenever we celebrate her birthday, we usually go out and eat.. so ya..

And the spread was fantastic.. but the price was better! We got it at 38% discount (because it was their anniversary!).. and I can tell you that after you ate at The Line, no other buffet comes close lah! Haha.. but judging by the normal price was actually 68++ per pax during normal days (without discount), but after discount, it is charged at about $48 per pax (including taxes), which is super worth it if you ask me.. haha..
I will definitely go back to The Line someday again! =)

The spread was plenty and lotsa variety.. if you like Japanese sushimi and seafood such as raw oysters, this is the place to be..
You need to be there to know how good it is.. so ya..

By the way, I tried almost everything, and man.. I'm so full.. but if you ask me whether I want to go back there again, I would say a firm "YES"! =D..

Ok lah.. gtg le.. really full.. just came back not too long ago, so blogging this blogpost in the hope that I can digest my food faster.. haha..

** Not everything on this nite at The Line is pleasant.. somethings are better left unsaid.. but if you want to koe, ask me and I see if its appropriate to tell.. =)

I love the tissue prata and ice cream,
<<< abriel >>>