Ashwinee Rvan

A Long Break

2011-12-19T12:39:00.000+08:00

HELLO my loyal readers,

I am back to the world of blogging after a looooooooong break. I know that in the past, I have occasionally taken short breaks form blogging. This time is no different except for the fact that it's been 5 months!! I am not going to start this post by promising you all the delayed posts for I know that I will only end up procrastinating. Instead, I decided to just update you guys on some of the stuff that's been going on in my life recently:-)

1. SPM is over!!!

Now for those of you who probably have no idea what I'm talking about, SPM, also known as Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia is a Form 5 examination sat by every student in Malaysia at the end of their high school life. Totted as the most important exam of our schooling life, SPM is often regarded as grand finale of secondary school.

Like many other Form 5 students around Malaysia, I too sat for this exam which ended on the 8the of December. I'm not going to spend the next fifteen minutes describing the level of hardness of each paper. Instead, I'll just say that I'm feeling pretty relived that it's over. Of course, now I face the whole rigmarole of choosing a course, selecting a college, deciding what I want to do for the next fifty years of my life, getting a license..........

Despite the immense relive and happiness, deep inside I still feel like I want to be back in high school, with my friends and teachers and in my uniform. I miss being a high school student and I definitely miss my school:-)

2. Pn.Teo has left:-(

PN. TEO BOON HWA

The woman who was all along regarded as the back bone of SMK USJ 12. The one person who has the ability to silence the whole school by just standing in front. Without her, the school would not have been able to climb the ladder to reach the position it is in today. She had the vision that brought us to this level. She ensured that SMK USJ 12 will not just be a school but a holistic one too. The Prefects Board looked up to her as a mother, mentor and guardian. Today, she has left the family of SMK USJ 12. As much as we all know that this is towards a better future for her, all Twelveans will still miss this amazing lady.

Personally, I've had so many good memories with her. She played a huge part in my development as an individual in my high school. So, thank you so much Pn.Teo for all your hard work and commitment towards making our school a better place to be in.

P.s : I had to take this photo from one of the ex-student's blog because we were not allowed to bring cameras on that day.

3. I'm going for driving lessons!

I just registered for driving with my brother, Pearl, Ruby and Jeremiah. We went for the five hour talk last Thursday which I thought was not as boring as it was made out to be. Next, I'll be going for the Undang test this Saturday. It basically means I have another round of studying to do. I have to read all about the road signs and road ethics. I have come to realize that after actually learning all these stuff, I'm more alert to the way my parents drive. I'll be getting both my bike and driving license by February.

4. I created Facebook:-)

This is one of those things I promised such a long time ago(back when I was in Form 3) but only now got to do it. Well, better late then never right? For those of you who still have not added me on Facebook, now's your time to do it. However, I only add people I know. So, if you want to add me but I don't know you, please e-mail me.

I guess that's all the updates I have for now. Till I update again, chiao!

A Beautiful Song

2011-07-05T18:23:00.000+08:00

One of my favourite Disney movies of all time. Aladdin. This song is simply beautiful Never get bored of it!

2011-07-05T17:59:00.000+08:00

I wrote this essay for my Mid-Term English paper. The given title was 'The Best Place In My Country'. Of course I thought of writing about a tourist destination or something like that but resorted to this because I wanted to be unique. I guess my "uniqueness" paid off as I got a 47/50 for this essay. It just feels sooo nice when you put so much of effort in a piece and get rewarded for it. Wanted to share it with you guys. Enjoy reading!

P.s The story is part true part fictional. Just to add some chyme to it:-)

With fourteen states, a federal territory and more than a million residents, Malaysia is probably one of the smaller, less-known countries in the world. A place like no other and the home of natural beauty and wonders. However, if there is one other place that I like best in my country why even the world, it would be the place where magic happens, the place where you learn to give and forgive, the place filled with love and laughter and the place that brings a family together. The place called HOME. My home!

Situated in the heart of Selangor in a place called USJ 16, Subang Jaya stands a bright yellow coloured double-storey corner house. Once a building, now a home built with the foundation of two amazing parents, pillars of three charming kids and the walls of a happy family. During the countless times I have walked trough the main entrance, I always take a moment to stop and ponder over the golden framed family portrait that greats me. In the picture stand five people who are not alien to me. The five people that make my home the best place in my country.

Has anyone ever asked you the question, 'Why is your home so great?' Well, I can answer that question withing the blink of an eye. What makes a house a home? A home is where the heart is. Thus, my home is great because that is where my heart is. Despite having gone on various vacations around the world and having stayed in many hotels, none of these places has what my home has. By now, you are probably starting to wonder why am I so sentimental when it comes to home. I guess it is time to share my story, my secret with you.

I was one of those kinds of babies you hear about. Those that are dumped by their parents. Those that are found in a dustbin or a drain. I was "discovered" by a priest who later handed me over to the orphanage. During the course of the first ten years of my life, I don't remember being in one place. I switched schools, moved from one foster family to another. In a large perspective, my life was completely disastrous. Only I knew how the whole manouvre of switching families affected me emotionally. There was not a single place on earth that I could call home. Not a single soul to call family. I guess there just reached a point in my life where I felt a home is everything mankind needed.

Like the sun appeared from behind the rain clouds, my whole life took a dramatic turn for the better when 'they' came to adopt me. My parents. At that moment that I stepped into that beautiful house, it seemed like paradise. I used to stay up every night on my knees praying that this dream doesn't end. It was then I started to realize the inner meaning of life, family and love. All my past experiences helped me appreciate this place called home. I started being at home always until my friends thought I was weird.

However, the fact was that after having been shelter-less on many occasions, I was too afraid of losing this place that I can finally call home that I refused to let go. Nowadays, as we go pass the busy roads in Kuala Lumpur, I always look out of the window. What I see, shatters my heart. Little kids, teenagers and even some senior citizens taking shelter under the bridge and by the roadside using only a blanket to shield themselves from the harsh weather. As I step inside my home, it dawns on me how much this building has sheltered me from the cruel realities of the outside world. Obviously, this IS the place I like best in my country.

Would you believe me if I say that magic happens in my house? No, not the kind of magic that happens with the wave of a wand and some colourful explosions but the kind of magic that acts on you like an unseen force. Despite the countless arguments(sometimes even fist fights) that my siblings and I have, despite dad having to chase my brother around the house with a cane, despite my mother's sudden fits of anger, when we sit down at the dinner table 7.30 sharp, we are all one big happy family. Like my dad says, 'A home is truly powerful if it can unite a family during meals.' Now, if that is not magic, I don't know what is.

As you see, over the past seven years of my life, my home has had such a powerful impact on me. My house may not be a bungalow, it may not have the facilities of a hotel, it may not have wooden flooring or gold-plated windows but it has the one thing that a home needs. Family. As the famous poet Shakespeare so beautifully put it..... the H in HOME stands for Hope, O for One family, M for Memories and E for Everlasting. To me, my house, my home is truly the best place in my country in every aspect possible.

Is peace among mankind possible?

2011-07-01T21:18:00.000+08:00

I always ask myself a question...."Is peace among mankind possible?" I've tried countless number of times to answer this but to no avail. I guess the simple answer would be "Yes, it is possible the day people learn to forgive and forget." If you are one of those people who think like this, then think again...

What are the two most important things to mankind? Money and power. If you think about it, most wars, arguments, fights, misunderstandings, international blunders etc revolves around these two things. Just like two children fighting over a sweet, if you give them both a sweet, the fight stops. However, can that be applied in this situation? The logical answer is NO! Money and power are not like sweets which can easily be obtained. These are mega-disastrous elements of life we are talking about. There can only be one powerful man, there can only be one richest guy. Thus, the competition will always be there to so-call be the most powerful man on earth. I believe that until the day money and power starts dropping from the sky, peace among mankind is not possible.

This is because, in every nook and corner of the world, there is a man who has a dream of being powerful(Isn't that like every man's dream?) Would you be satisfied if I were to give you a 50 cents chocolate in exchange of a Belgium chocolate bar? It's the same case here. To the man who dreams of being rich and powerful, there should be no one like him. There is no such thing as second best. When this competition reaches its peak, that's when the human mind instructs you to do things, anything to gain that power and position. This obviously leads to the world's wars. This two elements and the competition for them is what created people like Saddam Hussein and Osama Bin Laden.. When you ponder over it, you realize that the world is made up of many such people. In fact, there is a Saddam and Osama Bin Laden hidden somewhere inside every one of us. However, the simple ability that we posses, the ability to think rationally make us different from them.

Competition is there everywhere. However, the factors at stake is what makes THIS competition disastrous. Money and power is something that mankind can never do without. Thus, until the day that these things become invaluable or easily obtained, peace among mankind is not possible!

P.s This is purely my opinion and not meant to hurt anyone. If you have any disagreements with it, please do kindly contact me:-)

Roller coaster ride

2011-06-28T19:14:00.000+08:00

I feel that this year has been like a roller coaster ride for me literally. During the first six months, it was like the uphill part of the roller coaster. Things were slow and beautiful. I still had time to enjoy life and dream and so on. The second six months is like the downhill part, Things have started to take speed and it is not good! Before I could even realize, SPM is around the corner. I can barely even think of anything else now and soon when the roller coaster reaches full speed, OH MY GOD!!!!

My Last Sports Day:-)

2011-06-25T22:20:00.000+08:00

So today was mys last sports day as a Twelvean. As I entered the school wearing my black prefects t-shirt, it dawned on me that here I am, as a Form 5 students in what is yet to be my last Sports Day. Being a Twelvean is one amazing experience and journey. I shall write a post on that soon. Today, it's all about this super fun day. I basically watch the march past, spent time screaming for all the Bluster runners with Pearl, Haish and Jeremiah, took pictures(secretly of course), tried to run away from someone, chatted with all my friends AND had fun!!!!

The two so-called sexy dudes!

LOL!!! Note the guy in front with the black shirt. That is Naquib(I don't know how to spell his name). He's a librarian and Azrai's second generation. Not only they look alike but act alike too! He is supposedly pregnant in this picture. Doesn't his expression look super realistic?

My awesome friends! Pearl as usual trying to look taller than us. Fail lah Pearl. It loos more like you are being carried by us.

To the Bluster tarik tali members, you guys were great! And congratulations for winning both the categories!

To my dear librarian friends Farid, Pearl, Jeremiah, and the rest of you....your marching was superb! Really well done:-) So, congratulations and keep it up!

Projects oh Projects!

2011-06-20T21:25:00.000+08:00

And here I am once again plopped in front of the laptop staring at the almost impossible numbers and formulas on the screen. Wondering what it's all about? My "beloved" Add Maths project which just happens to be a compulsory addition to the Form 5 students' already hectic curriculum. The question now is whether this whole thing even has a benefit.

Kapil, my team mate and I did some research on the net and guess what? The whole freaking paper with the answers is available online. The miracles of internet and google of course. All we had to do was print it out and change some grammatical mistakes, fake the numbers and send it in. But of course us being the diligent students, decided to do it the harder way. We are instead using that as a guide and coming up with our own numbers and formulas(I sound like a genius right?) and solutions to the problems. Well, we Einsteins better come up with the paper fast because the deadline is in two weeks!!!

Shabir:-)

2011-06-10T22:19:00.000+08:00

Okay I know I'm supposed to be sick and all that but just a while ago, I was surfing trough youtube when I remembered about the Singaporean local tamil drama called Vettai(Hunt). I watched it without fail every night when I was there attending my cousin's wedding last December. The drama somehow caught on to me. It has a very realistic theme and it's unique and appeals to youth. It's about this Police Unit who solve crimes and issues. In between this, there is the various setbacks and problems in the lives of these officers. Being a girl, obviously another reason I watch this drama is because of the good-looking actors in it(Much better looking then our local actors). One of them is the guy on the picture above Shabir a.k.a Inspector Nantha. What I like about him is his mysteriously charming look which matches his character in the drama. He may not be one of those drop-dead gorgeous guys but his got the charisma. I guess Kah Mei will agree with me.

Feeling sick:-(

2011-06-10T20:32:00.000+08:00

Hello my dear readers! I just got back from Australia yesterday night. Sometimes, I feel like I never left in the first place. Woke up today feeling a little feverish. Had a sore throat and slight flu. It didn't get any better now. I guess it's just jet lag gone a little worse. Probably I need some rest but I can't rest with the thought of studies in my head. I spent the last two weeks enjoying myself and now it's time to catch up.

Thus, if I ever mention anything like "I'll update on the Australia trip soon".... you know exactly what will happen. I won't update. Well, not SOON anyway. This is going to be a very short post as I really am lost for ideas what more to write and if I continue writing, I'll start blabbering. So, bye bye and good night:-)

I like this a lot. Sometimes, it can be very true. Especially with your true friends. Just so YOU know, I may have been upset with you but I guess it never lasts because that's what friendship is all bout. Being able to forgive and forget right? Though I'm not so sure you'll do the same if you are in my shoes.

A big HELLO from down under!

2011-05-30T19:44:00.000+08:00

Hello everyone! A big hello to you guys from Sydney, Australia. Just a quick post. No pictures because for some god knows what reason, the Mac Pro desktop in the hotel doesn't seem to have a mouse that can copy paste. Either that or I'm not smart enough to know how things are done the Mac way. These are the kind of moments you need people like Kapil.

I'm missing home and the people back home. It's just weird how during school, you pray for the holidays and during holidays, you pray for school. Nevertheless, I'm enjoying myself thoroughly here. The second day in Sydney. The weather is awesome! So cooling and nice. It's like a natural air-conditioning system. At times, I still miss Malaysia's weather though.

Okay, thats about it for now. To all my friends, miss you guys!

Bollywood Girls!

2011-05-28T12:15:00.000+08:00

Watch and comment people!

Bollywood meets Hollywood

2011-05-27T21:59:00.003+08:00

WE ARE THE BOLLYWOOD GIRLS!!!!

For what the day started like, the ending was definitely wow!!!! From the amount of exclamation marks I'm using, you probably would have realised how great it went. Let me give you a brief picture of SMK USJ 12's Teacher's Day Celebration which was held today.

First of all, it started with God's blessings. In other words, RAIN. Thanks to our beloved rain, the great plans of teachers walk-in was ruined. We had a semi-walk in to the shaded area. Which I guess was not so bad. Then, my beautiful voice(I was the emcee with Jia Rou) could not be heard by the teachers thanks to the Physical concept of sound range and frequency. My mike was too far from the PA system. That was what Ong told me. To make matters worse, we spent the first half of the function listening to some boring speeches. Or should I say waiting for the speeches to be over. Because no one were listening anyway. Once the rain started to slow down, they decided to start with the performance.Ours was the 5th performance! So, I had to practically run several laps to the Prefects Room and toilet all in the bid to get ready. Thank god Remitra and Poh Yee came to help us get ready. It made things so much easier. After we dressed, can you imagine 7 colorfully dressed girls walking around the school? Yeah, that was what we were.

However, it all comes to show time. We are praying for the PA System to work properly. The music starts with Aaja Nachle and the crowd goes wild! That was when we knew we are going to show them what we have got! We started, we conquered the stage, we made people what to dance and we gave them a show! The amount of compliments we got after that was worth all the effort. Teachers loved it, students were crazy about it and we were ecstatic about our achievement. I hang around library with Farid, Pearl, Yew Jin, Harresh and some other people after that.

So, to Ashikin, Hanneshah, Anucia, Fadilah, Dianne, Pavitrraa and myself...... we rock girls! Or like what Hanneshah said, the superstars! Will upload the video soon. That was courtesy of Kapil Haresh.

No time to party!

2011-05-25T19:36:00.000+08:00

My dear readers, you probably expected a Hallelujah post as my mid-terms ended today. But honestly speaking, I don't even have the time time to think of screaming what ore partying. Day after tomorrow is our school-level Teacher's Day celebrations. As it is my last year, I decided that I have t do something for the teachers and contribute all out for the celebrations. So now I'm the emcee, I'm reciting a Tamil poem AND.... I'm performing a Bollywood dance! Surprised? Yeah, you probably have NEVER since me even shake for a performance and now I'm dancing. I'm not alone. My friends Dianne, Hanneshah, Ashikin, Anucia, Pavitrra, Fadilah and I created a group and we are performing a medley of songs. I'm not going to reveal anything more. You've just gotta wait and watch the act on Friday.

That is the reason why I have no party time. Right after school today, we had auditions. Then, headed to Dianne's house. Seven girls packed like sardines in aunty's car. We had a hardcore practice session for 4 hours straight! I'm half-dead now just as I'm typing. Tomorrow is another round of hardcore dancing before showing it off on Friday. Hopefully all the hard work pays off and we manage to put up a dazzling show. Keeping my fingers crossed. Before I drop right onto the laptop, I better go have a shower and take some rest before the long day tomorrow:-)

Before I leave though, I would like to thank some of my friends who have been a great help during this stressful day. Remitra, thank you so much for landing me that beautiful green choker. Pearl, thank you so much for the CD you lent me. Farid, thanks a million for listening to my rantings and helping me calm down with you silly jokes:-) Also, thanks a lot to my whole dance troupe who have put in so much of effort for this show!

Regret or Repent?

2011-05-20T14:51:00.000+08:00

I'm writing in reference to the recent case of bullying on a 13 year old girl. The nation was shocked with this incident after a video of it was posted on YouTube. Yes, undoubtedly this issue of bullying is very worrying indeed and needs immediate attention. However, what I don't understand is that how the society can be so cruel as to suggesting punishments such as suspending them from school, law acts, fine and jail terms and so on. Yes, these girls did something that is definitely unacceptable but how is humiliating them and making their lives even more miserable going to help? By doing so, aren't we being bullies ourselves?

The girls have already faced enough. After all the articles splashed over the newspapers, the shame they and their families have faced has already created an impact on them. By what means does further public shaming is going to help them? They are after all just a bunch of 13 year olds who messed up. The influence from social networking sites and movies caused them to do such a act. What they truly need right now is support from the family and society to repent. They need counselling sessions and maybe they can be made to do community service. The extra burden imposed on them should be reformation oriented rather than punishment oriented. We are living in a world where the Legalism believe has been long gone. Yet, the thought of my fellow Malaysians make me think whether we even realize how cruel we have gotten.

I come from SMK USJ 12 where bullying is a probably a fairy tale. There is no such thing as bullying in the school. The main reason being, the numerous CCTV's around the school compound and the strict discipline regime. Now, I pose a question to you. If MY school can and have prevented the problem of bullying, why can't other schools? Do we even realize that the true culprit here is not the students but the school environment? Students are just immature human beings whom with little convincing can repent. Again, I stand by principle that what the society needs is bullies who repent not regret?.

As a teenager myself, I certainly do hope that the public and our Malaysian society would look into this matter.

Short Break:-)

2011-05-20T14:46:00.000+08:00

I know that the quote above has absolutely no whatsoever connection to the this post but oh well... I just love the saying above and I guess it's absolutely true!

The past two weeks has been like Hurricane Katrina for me. With papers after papers, I just didn't have the time to even visit this dear blog of mine. Today is the end of the second week of exams. I have three more days of storm awaiting me next week. This whole exam ordeal feels like a whole 13 days of sheer silliness to me. I mean, you learn a hell lot of things for a whole year in the name of education and then you crap it all up into that tiny brain and try to squeeze out whatever possible 4 times a year in that something called exams? What reasoning is that? Now, don't you dare come and give me all that crap about assessment. If you really want to assess what I've been learning you should be doing that every week! Not forcing me to spill out everything 4 times a year! Sometimes, I feel like this education system which we all know as exam-based is NOT going to bring me anywhere. Is getting that beautiful string of straight plusses(which by the way, almost 50 percent of them get) going to make you a successful entrepreneur? No way. But if you are a Malaysian, I guess that is just the way you are judged. You get straight A plus and you are great. You 6 A plus and a B... not too bad, you get a few A plus, a few A minuses and a B... you are second class. As absurd as it seems, that is just the way we are. Haiz...

Ignore my baseless rantings above. Just something I felt like sharing with you. Good luck in bracing the upcoming week everyone!

It's Back!

2011-05-06T17:05:00.000+08:00

LOL! I like this saying man:-)

Why is it that every time an exam is over, you start feeling so excited and elated about it, you start going around writing blog posts with the tile "IT'S OVER!" and then just as you though you could relax, the whole ritual starts again. With the scrambling for tips, begging teacher for easier question papers, trying to use our charming(NOT) and innocent(yeah right) faces to get that small thing called tips which we think would change the whole exam mode. Then, you have the exams itself. Two whole weeks of quietness in class where if you have a measuring mode for stress level it would have probably been damaged already. Oh my God! Damn it! Shit! These are ever so popular lines often heard in atypical classroom full off students sitting for an exam.

That scenario is now back. Yet again. Next week is my mid-terms. Thus, I shall be MIA for a short period of time. But probably I would not be rejoicing after this exam, as it only means that the bigger hurdle SPM is nearer. OH MY GOD!!!!!!

Had the Prefects Committee Members photo shoot today. It felt so good to be part of that hyperactive group of smart people posing away knowing and realizing that this may be our last chance to have a group photo in school. Then, we had the single shots for our profile. Everyone took turns to showcase their talent in modelling. It was super hilarious and memorable all the same. I was pretty upset and ashamed at some of my fellow prefects fr doing something they shouldn't have. I mean how old are you? 10? Stop acting so immature and childishly. Things you do may seem like a joke to you but it CAN hurt others you know...

Spice up your day by smiling:-)

2011-05-02T14:19:00.000+08:00

After having a war with my Add Maths book just now... I thought of relaxing my muscles(both brain and body) a little. As they say, smiling or laughing is the best way to relax. So, I searched up for some silly jokes for your pleasure. Read and enjoy. And oohh.... DON'T FORGET TO SMILE:-)

A very shy guy goes into a nightclub and sees a beautiful woman sitting at the bar. After an hour of gathering up his courage, he finally goes over to her and asks, tentatively, "Um, would you mind if I chatted with you for a while?"
She responds by yelling, at the top of her lungs, "No, I won't sleep with you tonight!" Everyone in the bar is now staring at them. Naturally, the guy is completely embarrassed and he slinks back to his table.

After a few minutes, the woman walks over to him and apologizes. She smiles at him and says, "I'm sorry if I embarrassed you. You see, I'm a graduate student in psychology and I'm studying how people respond to embarrassing situations."

To which he responds, at the top of his lungs, "Two-hundred dollars? What do you mean $200?!

Physics Teacher: "Isaac Newton was sitting under a tree when an apple fell on his head and he discovered gravity. Isn't that wonderful?"

Student: "Yes sir, if he had been sitting in class looking at books like us, he wouldn't have discovered anything."

The teacher of the earth science class was lecturing on map reading.

After explaining about latitude, longitude, degrees and minutes the teacher asked, "Suppose I asked you to meet me for lunch at 23 degrees, 4 minutes north latitude and 45 degrees, 15 minutes east longitude?"

After a confused silence, a voice volunteered, "I guess you'd be eating alone."

At Sydney University, there were four students taking Organic Chemistry. They did so well on all the quizzes, midterms and labs, etc., that each had an "A" so far for the semester. These four friends were so confident with the finals approaching that the weekend before, they decided to go down to Canberra and party with some friends there.

They had a great time. However, after all the hard partying, they slept all day Sunday and didn't make it back to Sydney until early Monday morning - the morning of their final exam! Rather than taking the final then, they decided to find their professor after the exam and explain to him why they missed it.

They explained that they had gone to Canberra to do some research in the ANU (Australian National University) archives for the weekend with the plan to come back in time to study, but, unfortunately, they had a flat tire on the way back, didn't have a spare, and couldn't get help for a long time. As a result, they only just arrived now!

The professor thought it over and then agreed they could make up their final exam the following day. The guys were elated and relieved. They studied hard that night - all night - and went in the next day at the time the professor had told them.

He placed them in separate rooms and handed each of them a test booklet, (which was out of 100 points) and told them to begin. The first problem was worth five points. It was something simple about free radical formation. Cool, they all thought in their separate rooms, "this is going to be easy."

Each finished the problem and then turned the page. Question 2 (for 95 points): Which tire?

Aww....

2011-05-01T19:42:00.000+08:00

Girl: Slow down, I'm scared.

Boy: No this is fun.

Girl: No its not. Please, its too scary.

Boy: Then tell me you love me.

Girl: Fine, I love you. Now slow down!

Boy: Now give me a hug.

Girl: *gives boy hug*

Boy: Can you take my helmet off and put it on yourself? It's bugging me.

Girl: Alright, now slow down.

Boy: I love you, babe.

Girl: I love you too. Just slow down, PLEASE!

(In the paper the next day)

A motorcycle had crashed into a building because of a brake failure. 2 people were on it, but only 1 had survived. The truth was that halfway down the road, the guy realized that his brakes broke, but he didn't want to let the girl know. Instead, he had her say she loved him and felt her hug 1 last time, then he had her wear his helmet so that she would live even though it meant that he would die.

A masterpiece of memories:-)

2011-04-30T13:18:00.000+08:00

Just back from the Prefects Interaction Day. Possibly one of my last activities as a prefect:-( As I got trough the activities, as I sweat in my prefects t-shirt, as I jump around filled with hyperness, as we take our group picture, as the Form 5's fool around in front of the camera, I start realizing that it may be the LAST time I'm doing this. Just like that, it's April and my days as a secondary school students seems to fade away one by one. The memories remain etched deep in my heart as every corner of the school holds witness to what will be the best time of my life.....high school!

Will update more on it when I get the pictures from our prefects Facebook profile.

Someone's Seventeen!

2011-04-28T15:08:00.003+08:00

-FARID YUSOF-

A very good friend of mine is celebrating his birthday today. "Farid, you are now now officially my age!" Had lots of fun surprising him in class today. I guess seeing the expression on his face was worth all that effort. I'm not going to write a long message here as I already conveyed the message in class. Just a short note to say HAPPY BIRTHDAY FARID and glad that you enjoying your birthday:-) Here's a a picture dedication of your favorite football club.... Though I personally feel Man United is the BEST:P

Message from a youth!

2011-04-26T15:41:00.000+08:00

Lol... I like this picture! Though it's not entirely true:P

“Kids nowadays are so stubborn, ungrateful, lazy…blah blah blah” Now, does this sound familiar? Yes? Maybe you are a teenager like me, who have heard this statement countless times or maybe you are just an adult who has uttered this god knows how many times. Either way, the ‘kids nowadays’ term is not such an alien after all. From parents to teachers to the retired generation, everyone seems to think that ‘kids nowadays’ is a wonderful term to be used. What I don’t quite get is, how can kids become so different from one generation to another?

The moment you see a group of teenagers hanging out at a shopping mall, as an adult, you tend to start the typical ‘kids nowadays’. However, little do you realize that KIDS don’t become the way they are just because they are born into the 21^st century. It’s the parents, the surrounding and the society itself that shapes a child into what he or she turns out to be. Or else, why is it that you can also have kids like Nur Amalina Che Bakri in the same generation as those ‘kids nowadays’? Try placing yourself in our shoes. How would you feel if an adult automatically judges you just from the fact that you are a teenager of today? I know that I can’t generalize by saying everyone does this but most of you do.

When a child is born, it is whatever that is instigated by the adults surrounding him/her that is programmed into the brain as good or bad. Like writing onto a piece of clean, white paper. We are not born with a microchip inside our brain that sends us signals to say that “You are a today’s kid. This is how you should behave. You should not respect the elders.” I simply don’t get how different is our birth compared to those days. Neither do I understand why do people tend to come up with conclusions that all ‘Kids nowadays’ are the same. The only difference is probably the way you raise us or the way the society of today is and in what way is that our mistake?

One typical example is the teachers in school. There is not a day which passes without a teacher commenting on how ungrateful we are and how we don’t appreciate the free education and how difficult it was those days. Let me ask you. Yes, it is indeed true that most of you have gone through a rough childhood coming from rubber tapper’s and factory worker’s families. But do you think, that the fact that you grew up in such a situation and we didn’t is the cause for our attitude? In that case, are all teenagers supposed to live a difficult lifestyle to reform? My point is that, we kids of today are in no way different form the way you used to be besides the point that we are exposed to a larger, more complex world compared to you.

We have our own way and style of expressing opinions and thoughts that I agree can sometimes be exaggerated but that is simply the work of the excited hormones. If you are going to call that rude, stubborn and ruthless, then just look back at yourselves when you were a teenager. How would you like it if people started judging you by simply generalizing and saying ‘kids nowadays’? Yes, we are the kids of today but not all of us are going to shrug off the “smart” comments made on us. The adults of today are the ones who should wake up and start realizing that it is not nice at all to be labeled as the kids nowadays who are so negative. Oh yes, I wouldn’t mind it at all if you use the same term and say that “Kids nowadays are so smart, intelligent, sharp, proactive, blah, blah, blah…”

As a teenager myself and an adult in 12 months, I strongly would like to make my point clear that ‘Kids nowadays’ are not all that bad or negative the way you think. Thus, please do stop your brain from coming up with those terms that labels us as different form you guys. We are just a small part of this extremely huge world trying to make our stand. Yes, not all of you take us seriously but please try to do so. The today’s kids are the ones who are going to shape the world of tomorrow. So, if you wish to have a better tomorrow, please do stop poisoning our minds against adulthood. Whether you know it or not, those comments and statements you make leaves a deep mark on us. We start thinking why do you hate us so much and that leads to the growth of another troubled child. Let us not spoil the minds of the angelic kids. Thus, stop the negative comments on the youth of the 21^st century.

Just another one of my rantings that I wrote down a couple of weeks back.

Champions by Heart!

2011-04-24T12:33:00.000+08:00

As they say, perspective and perfection is different to everyone's eyes. Yesterday, my school had the School-Level Uniform Bodies Marching Competition. Even though, I didn't participate, I was there to support the other teams. Mainly, Kadet Bomba. I can bravely say that every student and teacher present were awaiting the performance of Kadet Bomba. We were anticipating what we call as the BEST in the school. As the platoon marched in, the whole school went wild. We were screaming, and clapping, and cheering this team. They came in, they bombarded us with an AMAZING performance which was seriously almost perfect. Unlike the other teams, they performed like ONE team. Every movement, hands, legs, slogans was done TOGETHER. That can probably be proved by Hakim, their leader. He was standing at the side and screaming like a new father. He was practically jumping up and down. So, you see, from all these descriptions, you probably would have known how great they were. And if you are a Twelvean, you would have seen it for yourself.

However, as it ALWAYS happens... They got second. I was standing there with Farid, Hakim and Haziq when they were announcing the results. The whole team was like "I want that trophy so badly!" And then the teacher announces...."Second place goes to......Kadet Bomba!". You can not imagine just how dejected everyone felt. This includes all the other teams(Except the champions KRS of course). Everyone were like what the hell! Bomba should have won. The Bomba platoon were damn upset as well. I mean, yeah KRS were good but can you beat Bomba? This team has been to the Districts man. How can you beat them? Of course we all know the main reason why you won.

Yet, to Farid, Hakim, Haziq and all the Bomba team, you guys did a great job. I know it and you know it. At the end of the day, that is what matters. You heard for yourself what the other students had to say. Everyone were united in declaring you the champions. That trophy or the 'champion' title may not be yours. But that is a virtual thing right? What matters is, you guys are Champions by Heart! I'm pretty sure all Twelveans will agree with me.

The weather is a weapon!

2011-04-21T21:18:00.000+08:00

P.s I like the statement above but sadly if I do that every time I feel stressed, I shall end up as a diabetic patient!

AAAAARRRRGGGGGHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Okay, I feel better now. Just wish I could do that literally. Scream my lungs out. The weather these days is just killing me. Yesterday, it rained so heavily and it was so freaking windy that it was cold in my study room. Today, the weather was so freaking HOT that Yinq Qi I had to desperately splash our faces with water. Yes, we literally did that. After school, we were sitting at the little hut near the gate and doing Add Maths while waiting for aunty. It felt like I was in a sauna or something. I was sweating profusely inside my uniform. Dianne even rolled up her baju kurung skirt up to the knees. Yes, that was how desperate we were.

Okay, seriously. I love Malaysia. It is definitely a beautiful country. However, the weather here can sometimes be a little cranky. Like a lady with menopause. One day, its so cold and the next so hot. Haiz... Okay, before I start ranting on and on about the weather, I shall go back to my Maths books. Bye...

Oxbridge Public Speaking Competition 2011

2011-04-17T21:27:00.000+08:00

As some of you may know, Dianne and I attended the Oxbridge Public Speaking Competition 2011 held at Sunway University College yesterday. I would say it was a great experience. Honestly, it was a beneficial platform for us to meat other public speakers from around Malaysia. We spoke on the topic "Advertising Makes People Dumb" for the first round. Personally, I felt the judges were really nice. They were like smiling to me the whole time I was speaking and that probably killed a few butterflies in my stomach.

As we were waiting for the results, we ended up snacking on the chocolates Farid gave me. Met some new friends and old ones too Met Suk Chyi and Eugene from SMK USJ 4. Others like Kaelen and Jagan were also there. When Mrs Margaret Hall came up to announce the results, I was like "My name better be there!" As one by one, the participants whose names were called out(including Dianne) left the hall to their respective audition rooms, I started feeling restless. And then she says last but not least..... And I'm, like come on...come on... She finally announces ASHWINEE RVAN. Phew! I was among the 50 out of 110 participants who progressed to the next round.

We spoke on an impromptu topic "Peace is Possible" for three minutes. Personally, I though I did well. But sadly, both of us didn't get to the semi-finals. But I'm happy for giving my best shot. Will try out for the other competitions available:-)

I'm SEVENTEEN!!!

2011-04-17T21:09:00.002+08:00

Okay, this IS a slightly delayed post but oh well... As the typical reasoning goes, I WAS BUSY. Do not ask me with what for as you know, when a seventeen year old(yeah I'm seventeen) girl say she's busy, it's probably due to three things : 1. Friends, 2. School, 3. More of school. I shall fall into the third category. Before I crap further, let me get to the point.

I officially turned seventeen last Friday, 15th of April 2011. I can now legally obtain a driving license. As a Malaysian student, I'm all the more eagerly awaiting this part. Anyways, Friday was also the Malayalam New Year(Vishu). So, it was double celebration for me. I guess my birthday started the night beofre with the "wonderful" prank by the "wonderful" friends of mine...

MAHAVITHYA a.k.a MRS KAULITZ

and JIA MIN a.k.a BULLY MIN

Here is how it went. Jia Min texted me from an unknown number around 10.35 pm claiming that she's a worker from Sunway College. Th text said that the Public Speaking competition was postponed to next week. It all sounded so professional that I fell for it. The "worker" even asked me to contact this Mrs.Kaulitz for further information. I should have known it was Maha at the mention of the name Kaulitz but.... I didn't and thus they managed to trick me. It wasn't until the next morning that I found out it was Maha when she texted me to wish me. I was like what the hell? But anyways, it was a pleasant surprise guys. So, thank you.

After parents and brothers, my paternal grandma called me before I left for school. The day kick started off with SCHOOL. Unlike the past few years, it didn't rain in the morning though. I don't believe in all this though. After all the wishes, my classmates sang for me. Amirul even did a special Chipmunks version of "Happy Birthday". It was hilarious. Spent the entire day laughing and joking around with Amirul, Haresh, Farid, Hani and Fazira. It was really a wonderful memory. Thank you so much guys.

After school, went out with Maheshan and Dianne to Secret Recipe. It was a birthday treat from them. Had a good time with them. I had a slice of the Chocolate Cheese cake. Delicious. Maheshan was up to his usual crack mood. His parents sent us back. Suren anne called when I was there. It was a nice surprise to get a call from him. When I came back home, Mani Uncle and family were home. Fooled around with the cousins for a while.

At night, went to temple and the dinner at TGI Fridays with family. They gave me a pink rose bouquet which was lovely. Enough talking, let the pictures roll.

Cute little teddy bear from Maha. Which Amirul claimed looks like him. NOOO!!!!

Pink file, decorative bottle and a cute card from Pearl.

A really sweet card, small pouch with my name on it and a certificate:P from my dear Dianne.

Haha...This card makes me laugh. It is from Jeremiah. An impromptu solution. Lol. Thank you anyways Jeremiah. I'm still keeping it

A pink card and some candies from the sweet Kah Mei. The card was hilarious though.

A few little cute key chains from Jing Yi. I love the box!

A bunny chocolate, a funny and meaningful letter and a really authentic key chain which is....

PINKY(Inside joke) from my darling Hani.

A creatively made cadbury chocolate heart and a CD with some self-recorded songs from Remitra.

A box of chocolates from Farid. This was probably the help-during-emergency gift. He gave it to me on Saturday when Dianne and I were heading to Sunway University for the Public Speaking Competition. After our first round, we were both terribly nervous and hungry. What a terrible combination right? So, out comes the savior of the day. This box of chocolates. Managed to calm us down and give some comfort to the stomach.

Self-made key chain from my dearest brother, Avinash.

And that is me with the pretty bouquet of pink roses from my parents. They also treated me to a wonderful dinner at TGI Fridays, Subang Parade. Thank you acha and amma:-)

Thank you so much to all the special people who made my birthday this year a especially memorable one.... You guys really made my day:-)

Beautiful music of FRIENDSHIP

2011-04-12T18:30:00.001+08:00

If you are a Tamilian or would understand Tamil, then please take time to listen to this beautiful song from the movie Autograph. It's called Kizhakke Paarthen. The main theme of the song is the friendship between a guy and a girl. It depicts how special that relationship is and the beauty of having such a wonderful friend. The song is sung from the guy's perspective. Truly sweet and amazing:-)

Of speaking and me

2011-04-11T14:49:00.000+08:00

Am I?

Oh my god!!! My head is full of the words from my speech. The Oxbridge Public Speaking Competition is in ONE WEEK and I do not know whether my efforts are enough. Like seriously, this is not just some basic competition we are talking about. I'll be competing with 80 students from all over Selangor!!! They consists of people from international schools like Sri KL and KDU too. Currently, the only persuasion I can give myself is that, I'm not so bad myself.

Mrs Evelyn asked me and Dianne to present our speech in class during EST on Wednesday. That's like day after tomorrow. Okay. I can do it. Just as I was scrambling to time myself earlier, I remembered something someone told me recently. The person said... "I love to listen to you speak. It's just so beautiful." I don't know whether mys speeches are really that good but thanks anyway. You made my day that day.

I'm a student but I'm not dying!

2011-04-10T12:44:00.005+08:00

Lol. What a creative way of putting it...

Catchy song

2011-04-09T13:42:00.003+08:00

Was looking for Malaysia Today song on youtube when I bumped into this song. It's called 'Coming Home Newcastle'. The lyrics are so catchy and the beat just makes me want to move. I suppose it's a song for the Newcastle United football team.

I want sleep!!!!

2011-04-08T15:08:00.003+08:00

I'm feeling so lethargic today. Like no mood to do any homework or studying. Feel like just plopping onto the bed. On top of this, there is school tomorrow. Replacement school. Arghhh... We practically did nothing in school today since all the teachers were busy. Went to relieve Pn.Regina Annie in 4 Browser with Dianne. Was talking to Joshua and Julian. There were some "incidents" with Pn.Teo. Haish's beautiful red specs got taken away. So smart go parade it in front of her for what?

Okay. I have to get back to Biology now. Bye...

Backspacing Life?

2011-04-07T21:44:00.003+08:00

I really wish I could do that right now. Backspace my life by two years. Back to Form 3. The time when everything seemed so perfect, the time when school was about having fun, the time when class was great, the time when you actually love going to school everyday and the time when you were just starting to discover yourself. In other words, the best year of my secondary school life so far. I really do understand the fact that I have to make the best possible thing out of the 251 days left in my schooling life. Yes, I actually counted! That is not much time left but why does it seem like a nightmare to surpass this crucial stage of a student's life?

It's not like I'm the only one going through this. Thousands of students around the country go through this stage every year. Do every one of them feel like what I'm feeling right now? The expectations of people on me, the attention on whatever I'm doing plus my own self-consciousness. All these make me think whether am I really ready to face the exams. Will I be able to do it? I often picture myself on the results day holding that magical slip in my hands but what is in the slip still remains vague. I so totally DO NOT want what happened on 24th December 2009 to repeat again! I DO NOT want to see that one B on my slip. It just spoils everything. I'm supposed to be the model child. The cousin everyone looks up to or wants to look up to.

I can just imagine the look on my family members' face if I let them down. Which I strongly believe I won't. This is my battle. A battle that has to be fought. The thought of quitting or giving up should not even cross my mind. Thus, I will fight till I achieve what I want. And that is not a straight A's slip(which of course I want) but to prove myself and to be able to look back at myself and be able to smile. I want to be able to go out and tell people my results. I want to be able to enter a reputable university doing something I love. I want that picture perfect life that I've always imagined. Speaking to a crowd, doing presentations, leading a team on a project and being the boss. If the only way I can achieve all these is by being stressed out like what I am now then let it be. If this is what it takes to create a happy life then I'm all for it! I shall fight this battle till I win it....

Happy Birthday!

2011-04-07T17:01:00.004+08:00

-HAPPY SMASHING SEVENTEEN SUYI-

You see that beautiful girl up there? Well, it was her birthday today. Just one week before mine. My friend of four years MISS LIM SUYI:-) Happy Belated Birthday girl! Now, you officially say that you are older than me:P

Physics oh Physics!!!!

2011-04-06T21:50:00.002+08:00

One thing for sure, I salute ENGINEERS. I mean people like my father. How can you spend your entire 4 years of university studying Physics when I can't wait to get it out of my radar screen?! Like, seriously. What is so attractive about this "beautiful" subject that has created the record for having the thickest textbook of 205 pages. Damn. What is Physics? Physics is the branch of science centered on the study of matter, energy and the connection. That was from my reference book by the way.

I'm just having a date with my Physics right now and decided to take a break from learning about the Archimedes' Principle and why does the submarine sink and e.m.f and internal resistance. Just finished my PEKA report for the Ohm's Law experiment. As I crumble back to the cocoon of my Physics books and the world of Archimedes and Benoulli and Boyle..... I solemnly take a vow to never ever be an ENGINEER:-)

Super Early Birthday Present

2011-04-05T17:44:00.005+08:00

My beloved friends Esther, Haish and Kah Mei decided to give me a super ealry birthday gift. Like 10 days early! What the hell right.... Anyways, they gave it to me today. Damn nice right the gift? Esther made it and painted it. The others tag along. Really creative and sweet. It's gonna find a place in my room wall. Pearl made me promise it'll be hanging in my room the next time she comes:P But anyways, thank you so much guys. Even though it's 10 days in advance, I still appreciate it a lot!

P.s Amirul says it looks like painted chocolate:-

Real funny video

2011-04-04T17:50:00.003+08:00

Man, this guy is so funny. His attics and the dance steps plus the lyrics.

P.s : He looks a bit like my cousin Ruben:P

I like this song!

2011-04-03T16:32:00.003+08:00

I think this picture is just so cute...... right?

Heard this song for the first time when I attended Singapore's National Day Parade last year and it just grabbed my attention. Out of all the songs they played that day, I felt this one was the most touching and sweet one. Even though I'm not a Singaporean, this song made me stand up and sing along. Now, that's something right?

I'm Alive!

2011-04-02T18:16:00.003+08:00

Let me begin this post with a cute picture of my favorite star, SURYA! Yugan, check it out. Now, as I have been MIA for a short period of time, I shall make this an update post. Not that much of you would want any updates but with the tiniest hope that my blog is being followed by some very loyal fans of mine:P, I shall update on my life.

1. I lost in the District level Public Speaking competition. Got 4th place. That was terrible! But I wasn't so upset as the competition was really stiff. And I mean stiff! The marks were like 1 mark difference.

2. Got into the school Malay Debate team as a last minute fix. Since one of the members didn't come, I had to go in in order to prevent them from being disqualified. Since, there wasn't studies on that day and the we were the host school, so decided to help them. Surprisingly, we managed to get second! Now, they'll be representing the school to District levels. But I won't be joining in as I've already got too many things.

3. Am participating in the upcoming Oxbridge Public Speaking competition on the 16th of April. It is organised by the Oxford and Cambridge Society of Malaysia.

4. Didn't April Fool anyone this year due to having no mood to do so. Tried to do a last minute trick on Farid but failed.

That's all the updates for now. Till I blog again, bye:-)

Rest In Peace Jimmy.....

2011-04-01T13:52:00.003+08:00

Jimmy,

09-09-09 to 31-03-11

I do certainly wish this was all one big April Fool's Day joke but it is not and nothing can change the fact that he's no more. My dearest dog and friend Jimmy passed away yesterday. He got involved in an accident. I'm not going to elaborate more on that. To most of you, this may not be such a big deal but to me, it is. Jimmy was so attached to us that he was almost like a family member. Seeing him lying motionless on the ground only gave me heartache and filled my eyes with tears.

To My Dearest Jimmy,

From the day you came into my life, you have given so much unthinkable joy. Despite the silly mess you get into at times, despite the countless times I had to run after you when you run out of the house, despite all the late night feeding you, and despite the fact that you were so hyperactive..... I still loved you so much. Your presence made the house feel alive. Seeing your hyper face when I come back from school, your childlike attics, your small stature and your lovely big brown eyes are all still stuck to my head. Jimmy, even though it has just been a year and half since you were with us, the memories with you and the memories you gave us will remain forever. For you were not only my pet but also a family member. The tears I shed yesterday and the countless flashbacks I had lay as prove to how much I love you..... and I will definitely miss you! Wherever you are, may your soul rest in peace:-)

Disappointing Debate

2011-03-24T21:38:00.003+08:00

What a total change of mood from two days ago. This time I attended the Annual Parliamentary Style English Language Debate 2011-Zon Level held in SMK USJ 13. Though I felt we were not so prepared, we managed to trash the host school in the first round. Yes, I mean trash. We "POI" them so many times until the third speaker couldn't really do her role well. The motion was :

"This house believes that people need protection from violent lyrics, films and video games."

I was the third speaker for my school's team with Anisa as the second speaker and Min Hui as first speaker thus forming a 1 Malaysia team.

I think more than the debate itself, we enjoyed the whole preparation part the most. Us, 4 girls in the team constantly bullied Julian the poor lonesome guy in our team. We even depicted him as our dispatch boy because he was running around doing stuff for us. Thank you Julian! He managed to release our stress by cracking stupid jokes though.

Anyways, we were up against SMK Seafield and man they were good! Especially the Calen and Jagan guys. They were like shooting points and were sarcastic all the while. Can you believe that he even called Min Hui a CHILD!! She was so furious:P But I do certainly believe that we put up a equally tough fight. They won anyways. So, congrats guys and good luck for the next round:-) The motion was :

"This house believes that sex-ting among youth should be criminalized."

Miss Mozhi and Pn.Sharihah even treated us at Melur. Thank you so much teachers! Anyways, tomorrow is school as usual. This whole week I've been out of class. But they didn't study much either so I didn't miss out anything major. But I miss the class and the people in it. All my friends..... Its been so long since I crapped with them.

I won!

2011-03-22T17:47:00.003+08:00

Okay maybe it's not such a big deal like the Oscars but still..... I won the Subang Jaya zone Public Speaking competition and by that I mean I got 1st place:-) It was held in SMK USJ 8 today. As expected I met Aunty Thulasi there. I wasn't sure whether I should call her aunty or teacher:P Anyways, I went with Pn. Regina Annie. As I was the second last speaker, I had to wait for such a long time. Some of the other competitors especially the USJ 4 guy and Seafield were really good. I'm sorry I forgot their names. I didn't expect to get 1st place though. The speech I prepared was 3 minutes but the rules said I had to talk for 6 MINUTES!!!! I stood on the stage coming up with new points on the spot to fill in the time.

The impromptu speech entitled "The things that are in my mind always" turned out better than I expected. Subang Utama got second while the Seafield guy got third. Now, I get to represent the zone for the Petaling District level competition next Monday. Wish me luck peeps:-)

Hakim treated me at canteen just now. Haha.... Suddenly so nice? Thanks Hakim anyways. Maheshan promised to treat me for winning. I'm still waiting... Lol. I feel so evil.

I'm chosen!

2011-03-21T17:50:00.001+08:00

You know the Public Speaking competition I was talking about during the holidays? Well today was the auditions and guess what? I was chosen! So now I'll be representing the school for the zone level competition in SMK USJ 8. Wish me luck people:-)

My Semi-Artistic shots

2011-03-19T19:47:00.003+08:00

I feel contended today. I managed to change my previous blog header to a simpler one and.... I uploaded all the Kuantan pictures onto my Picasa. Here are some pretty impressive shots of mine using my brother as a model. Not bad for a beginner? Pictures taken in Teluk Cempedak beach.

Of Food and Malaysia

2011-03-18T12:51:00.003+08:00

Don't start drooling just yet people. Many more pictures of FOOD to come. If you are a Malaysian, you probably know exactly what I'm talking about. Malaysia is known as the Food Paradise among many foreigners and tourists. Among the many things Malaysian Tourism suggests, food tourism is one of them. Yes, you heard it right. Malaysia is one of the FEW countries in which you can get food 24/7. Trust me. Once you're here and once you've tasted our food, you'll keep wanting more. Reasons why Malaysian food is so special?

Number one because we have many races living together in one country thus creating many different cultures and tastes. Whether you're Malay, Chinese or Indian, when it comes to food, we're all Malaysians! Recently, a friend of mine who happens to be an Australian commented that she can never get bored of the food here. Just pay a visit to one of the local food courts and you'll know exactly what she means. It'll take you at least half an hour to decide what to eat judging from the number of stalls.

As in Thailand, much of the best food in Malaysia is sold by outdoor vendors, most specializing in a particular item. Certain dishes tend to be made by the members of particular ethnic groups. In Malaysia the best way to eat is to go to one of the hawkers centers, outdoor clusters of vendors selling one or two specialties. You take a table with a number on it, go up to the vendors and order your dishes, give them your table number, and they bring the food to you when it's ready. One of the most famous hawker centers in Penang is at Gurney Drive, a pleasant waterfront setting that is bustling at night. Something that makes this concept extra special is that we enjoy every kind of regardless of our race and religion.

Hawker Centre in Penang

The main ethnic groups of Malaysia are Malay, Chinese and Indian. One can find excellent south Inidan food in this region, as good as in India. One main food that comes from the Indians that is enjoyed by every Malaysian is the Roti Canai. There is even a saying that goes "As relaxing as a roti canai and teh tarik"

Usually described as "Indian pancake," it's a flaky, multi-layered fried bread that is served with a curry dipping sauce with meat.

As for the traditional Malay food, you have Nasi Lemak. It is basically rice made with coconut milk served with anchovies, cucumber, a boiled egg and sambal. You can get this delicacy in almost any restaurant in Malaysia. I personally love Nasi Lemak alot!

Noodles are central to Malaysian cuisine, and were certainly introduced by the Chinese, but popular noodle dishes incorporate various influences. Mee goreng (which combines the Chinese word for noodle with the Malay word for fried) is always on Malaysian menus.

Hokkien mee is a thick, yellow wheat noodle served in a brown soy-based gravy with mixed meat and seafood, and the name comes from one of the main Chinese groups in Malaysia, originally from Fujian province (Hokkien is the name for Fujian in the dialect of that province).

Perhaps the favorite Malaysian noodle dish is char kuey teow. Kuey teow is a flat rice noodle. It's medium spicy and sometimes contains a mix of seafood.

Now, another local Malaysian favorites is the satay-grilled, skewered meat served with peanut sauce. Though I tend to scoop out the sauce most of the times, satay is one thing I'll definitely miss if I'm leaving Malaysia.
Next in line, we have the famous Ikan Bakar(Grilled Fish) usually served with a spicy lemongrass sauce. Mmmm..... Now you can start drooling.

I've only scratched the surface of Malaysian food here. Because of the diversity of the cuisine, most Malaysian restaurants have very large menus, and the hardest part of a Malaysian meal is deciding what to order. That is not a problem at all. Just try a little bit of everything lah! I absolutely love being a Malaysian:-)

Holiday Updates

2011-03-17T22:52:00.003+08:00

The holidays are going to end soon and here I am updating about my lovely holiday. As you already know, I went to Kuantan last Monday. It was a perfect holiday. Peaceful, relaxing and as far away as possible from the busyness of Subang. I managed to completely get my head off the list of things I have to do. For those of you who know, I stayed In Kuantan many years back. So, this trip was also a walk down memory lane for me. We visited my old house, kindergarten, playground, the little insignificant areas to many which happens to be hugely significant to me. It was all really nice.

For those of you who know me well, you probably also know that I absolutely LOVE crab. Had a really nice meal of black pepper crab. I spent almost 4 hours in Teluk Cempedak doing what? No, not swimming. With the current situation in Japan, there was restriction everywhere against swimming in the water which my lovely brothers disobeyed like every other Malaysian down there. I, spent my entire time taking photographs of waves, trees, people, sand, seashells, and every other beautiful things by the seaside. Bought a couple of key chains as well.

After coming back, my cousins came over. Today, Hakim, Farid, Amirul, Haziq and I met up at the 16 park to discuss our bahas. Then, my cousins Rishan, Divya, my brother Arjun and I embarked on our own to Sunway Pyramid. Bought a black handbag for 20 bucks at Asian Avenue. Besides that, we just walked around and went for archery. For the first time in history, I managed to complete the racing game in the arcade without crashing out halfway. Big achievement huh? Discovered that there is a Daiso shop there. I never knew. Watched a movie.

8/10

Not to the extend of 2012 but quite nice lar. The theater was full and the audience were damn lively. Just my type of movie.

P.s : Will update the Kuantan pictures soon. When I say so, you know lar. It will either be super delayed or will never happen:P

200th Post Baby!

2011-03-12T22:41:00.003+08:00

First of all, let me beautify this post with a beautiful picture. Shock sendiri. That girl in the picture is my cousin's cousin. That makes her a cousin to me as well. Her name is Sheila. Pretty right?

Yup, after being on blogger for three years, I finally reached my 200th post mark. Most of you probably would not consider this as an achievement but to me, blogging is a serious thing. I don't just blog because everyone does but because of passion for writing and seeing my work published. So, reaching a milestone like this is a huge thing. Congrats to me:P

Today was a pretty relaxing day. I finally finished watching my cousin Kavitha's dinner video CD. Am viewing the photos right now. There are some nice random shots of me. Shall use it in my upcoming blog posts. Yoveena and Susheena came over just now. Was playing hide and seek with them. I know. DO NOT LAUGH!! Especially if you are Yugan, Yuva, Arjun, Darren or Farid. It made me feel like a little kid again. Haha...

Am going for the BM seminar in University Malaya tommorow. Must be in school by 8.00. I hope it's going to be fun. Most of my friends are going.

Once school reopens on Monday after holidays, the duties will change. I won't get to chit chat with Suyi and Pei Shen and join them in "stalking" someone like I used to this past few weeks. I will miss crapping with you guys in canteen lah:-)

I feel Patriotic!

2011-03-12T13:38:00.002+08:00

I was surfing through Youtube when I bumped into this video. The song is so lovely. It's one of those patriotic songs that doesn't make you sleep. What an amazing composition describing One Malaysia. It's a Tamil song entitled 'Ore Malaysia'. It made me feel so patriotic all of a sudden. I'm really proud to be a Malaysian and will always love this beautiful country of mine. To me, Malaysia is a country like no other. Full of love, unity, passion, talents and beauty. That is what makes Malaysia truly BEAUTIFUL:-)

Slow Stressful Friday

2011-03-11T14:48:00.005+08:00

Apa mau?!

Today was a seriously stressful yet calming Friday. The weather was rainy and cold the whole day. Most of the teachers didn't enter the class so yeah, we were supposed to be pretty relaxed. But in my case, no. I had so many stuff in my head when I entered school in the morning. Got most of the stuff settled. Managed to settle my Public Speaking thing. The tryouts is on Monday right after school reopens. Wish me luck. I'm competing with Dianne, Adam and Anucia. Other than that, just the usual holiday homeworks and assignments and stuff. Haiyo! Headache lah. Was talking to Farid going back time. He's pretty stressed out too. So many things in his head. Relaxlah Farid. Enjoy your camp and don't worry too much okay?

Before I forget, today is my dad's birthday.

Happy Birthday Acha!

A friend of mine's birthday happens to fall on the same day as well.

Happy Birthday Hakim!

Bieber-ness

2011-03-08T16:29:00.000+08:00

Though I'm not a Justin Bieber fan, though I'm not one of those girls who scream the moment they hear his name, though I think his vice sounds a little gay..... I think he looks absolutely cute with his new haircut. Don't you think? He looks ALOT more matured and more like a teenager rather than a small kid. BUT, that still doesn't make me a Bieber fan:P

Truth about guy friends

2011-03-07T20:28:00.002+08:00

Lol. I so totally agree:P

This one I stole from Suyi's blog. Sorry Suyi. I just loved it so much that I had to have it in my blog. I agree with the first 4 things. The last thing....yeah it may happen but that's not what is important in the friendship.

Why must you lose?

2011-03-07T20:22:00.002+08:00

I am so damn frustrated with Manchester United right now. Why must you lose? That too to Liverpool? It's not that Liverpool is a bad team or anything? But it's just that it so happened most of my guy friends are all Liverpool supporters and that makes the lost all the more terrible for me. Darren and Farid probably had the time of their lives today bullying me kau kau. Hakim wasn't in class so no one to back me up. Haiz...But never mind. Man U is still leading.

Prefect's Camp 2011

2011-03-06T12:36:00.004+08:00

As I revisit the moments of the Prefects Camp held in school last Friday ans Saturday, I start to face the fact that this may be my last ever camp organised or attended in school. My time as a Twelvean and as a prefect of SMK USJ 12 is soon coming to an end. Nevertheless, I'll strive to make my remaining days in the school the best of my high school life.

Before I go all emotional, let me get straight to the pint. The Prefect's Board organised a 2day 1 night camp for the Form 1 and Form 3 prefects on day before yesterday(Friday) and yesterday(Saturday). It was a semi-coaching semi-training camp. I was one of the main organizers for the camp thus giving me all the more "fatigue" moments. I'm too lazy to elaborate on it but overall, it was so fun! Really. Our Prefects are so cool I tell you. Will try to upload pictures when I get them from Fatin and Priscilla:-)

Waiting for the match tonight! Go Man United!

Amazing Talents

2011-03-01T17:26:00.002+08:00

This guy is a Chinese guy who also has some disability. This is a video of him singing a Tamil song 'Vande Matharam' by A.R Rahman. As a Tamilian and a fan of this song, let me tell you that his singing was AMAZING!

This second video is of a wheelchair bound lady singing the Tamil song 'Chinna chinna asai' also a composition of A.R Rahman. Isn't she simply marvelous?

These videos have proved to us that Music is a universal language. It is the only language in the world that can bring two nations, two race, two casts, and TWO totally different cultures together. The power invested in music is so tremendous.

Yours Truly is Busy

2011-02-24T22:07:00.001+08:00

Hey readers, I shall officially give this blog a short rest for one week. Next week, is my monthly test. So, I wouldn't be into blogging. Don't miss me:P

Happy Birthday Brother:-)

2011-02-23T15:06:00.003+08:00

-Mr Avinash Rvan-

Dear Avi,

Despite the fact that brothers are designed to be annoying at times, you have and always will be a wonderful brother. Thank you for being the annoying, irritating, smart, and most importantly cute little brother for me. You will always be my "little" brother no matter how older you get. For, I'm always 8 years ahead of you! So, here is a small post dedicated to you to wish you HAPPY BIRTHDAY my darling:-) I wanted to write your nickname here but decided not to. Today is the only day that I won't shout back to you if you annoy me, so use it to the max.

Feast Your Eyes Ladies!

2011-02-22T19:05:00.001+08:00

Rest In Peace Mr.Subramaniam

2011-02-21T20:17:00.003+08:00

A close family friend of mine passed away yesterday. Some of you may know him. He is Yoveena and Susheena's father. They have been a family friend for 6 years now. Anyways, the uncle passed away due to heart attack early yesterday morning. It was really sad to see the girls grieving over their father. Was there yesterday and attended the funeral today. Let me take this opportunity to say....

Uncle, you have been a really nice man. I still remember the jokes you use to crack whenever you bring us for swimming lessons. You were always so cheerful and never failed to greet me whenever you saw me. I still remember playing football with you, Yoveena and Susheena. I still remember the times when you used to tease my brother. And most of all, I still remember you wishing me all the best for my SPM this year. You have been a great man and it was wonderful knowing you. May you rest in peace Mr. Subramaniam:-)

That's the girl, Yoveena. I don't have a picture of her sister.

I miss you Shi-Yi:-)

2011-02-19T21:28:00.004+08:00

See that Beautiful Lady(as she calls herself) up there? Well, I miss her. It's been almost a month now since she went to Melbourne and the class is so not the same without her. I just realised I haven't written a farewell post for her. So here is one.

Dear Shi-Yi,

You are the most hyperactive person I've ever known. When you start talking, it is like an atom bomb which cannot be stopped. You can be pretty full of yourself at times. The only person you think is perfect in the world is yourself and you don't know how to speak Malay properly. I'm not going to say I like you despite all this. I like you because of all this. If you didn't TALK or if you weren't so "perasan", you would not be Shi-Yi. You are one of those people who are one of a kind. You've got a special way of approach towards things and you make your presence felt everywhere you go. Probably that is why I can never forget you. Though it only took us 30 minutes of talking in the L-Bend during recess, we became so close. Last one year has been unforgettable for me. I got you as a new friend and it definitely was worthwhile. Hadn't I got to know you, I probably would not have had so much fun and laughter in class last year. Whether you know it or not, you have taught me so many things. I want you to know that I will never forget all those amazing moments of craziness we had in class. Thank you:-)

Just replied her mail a short while ago. Hope to hear from her soon!

Lovely

2011-02-19T16:59:00.002+08:00

"There is only one language...the language of the HEART.

There is only one religion...the religion of LOVE"

This is a saying I read recently from a book called "The Truth Of Life". I forgot the author's name but it is an amazing book that contains all the wonderful sayings and proverbs said by children and ladies from war torn countries. The book really made me so mesmerized. You can never imagine what this people are going through. This particular saying was said by a lady called Isha Begum from Pakistan. She said all that she ever prayed for was peace and calmness in her country. Really touching. She said, if only terrorists understood the language of the heart, so much can be prevented.

Larian Twelveans 2011

2011-02-19T16:00:00.002+08:00

You see the picture up there? It's a picture of a group of extremely talented, special, unique, amazing people called Twelveans. Sadly, this will be my last year as a Twelveans. I will definitely miss being called a Twelveans. But like what we say, 'Once a Twelveans, always a Twelvean!'

Today, marked my last Larian Twelveans. It is a annual half-marathon organised my school. I'm going to make this a short post. First of all, it was HOT! The weather I mean. Oh my god! I finished like 4 bottles of mineral water. Secondly, the whole school was MESSY! Since, Pn.Teo wasn't there, everything was haywire. I mean the mess the students made. Like Pasar Malam. Haiz....People nowadays are so inconsiderate. Next, I would like to congratulate all my friends who managed to run in the given time as well as become Top 20. Here is a list of the Roll of Honurs:-)

1. Pearl Hoo - No.18 Form 5 girls

2. Lim Suyi - No.15 Form 5 girls

3. Tay Pei Shen - No.9 Form 5 girls

4. Maheshan Mahendran - No.6 Form 5 boys

5. Ong Hui Herng - No.5 Form 5 boys

6. Darren Yoong - Not sure what number but Top 20 Form 5 boys

That's the list of all my friends who got a prize. I'm not sure if I left out any. If yes, please do let me know. Congratulations again to all of you!

Juniors and Cuteness

2011-02-18T16:57:00.002+08:00

I love this picture so much! She looks so cute and sweet and innocent in it. Oh. The girl is my youngest cousin Tasha(I always forget how to spell her name). I took the picture by the way. Any compliments? Lol.

The main reason for this post is that I wanted to share with you my experience of dealing with a group of juniors. Yesterday, we had an interview for the potential prefects candidates consisting of Form 1 students. It was only then did I realize how much time has passed and how much I haven't grown:P Seriously, these "kids" actually thought I was a Form 3 student! Wat the hell. I must grow! At least to the extend of not being called a Form 3 student lah. Now, if any of my dear cousins Yuva and Yugan or my "beloved" classmates Farid, Amirul, and Hakim is reading this, I bet they'll be rolling on the floor laughing. But go ahead. One day, I'll prove it to you guys. I hope that the one day comes soon though.

Okay let me get back to the main point here. So, me, Maheshan, Dianne, Yee Shean, Eugene, Jia Rou, Anisa, Min Ling and Ashila stayed back to "interview" them. They were all grouped into a class and given an assignment of coming up with your own school. They were supposed to design their own school with all the respective criteria such as name, location, vision, mission, the importance of discipline in their school and so on. Later, they present it in front of the 5 main AJK's. They were pretty good you know. Some groups came up with interesting ideas. I shan't reveal anything much here but it was a nice day yesterday.

One of the groups even asked me whether they are allowed to ask me a question. Like, come on lah. We are not that bad okay. And, they all looked so cute and innocent. I remember those days when I was like them. So afraid of talking to the seniors. Met Suyi's sister there. She looks exactly like Suyi when she was in Form 2. Susheena was in the interview though. Good luck Sushi Bee!(Inside joke). Ashila's mom dropped me back home. Suppose to finish around 4 but got slightly delayed.

I skipped school today as we only had half day's lessons. That too they didn't do anything much. But I, as the very good-girl stayed at home and did some Add Maths graph questions. I'm starting to love graphs! Tomorrow is the half-marathon in school. It's called Larian Twelveans(Twelveans Run). Since it's my last year, I decided to go for it and have fun. Okay. That's all the updates for now. Next post will be on tomorrow's event.

Similarities:-)

2011-02-14T20:46:00.003+08:00

This guy in the picture above is Juzzthin, an actor portraying the role of Syed in the original Disney Channel production, the teen sitcom called Waktu Rehat(Break Time). Just now, I was watching one of the episodes of Waktu Rehat and suddenly realized that this guy bears a huge resemblance to my classmate Amirul. Not only looks wise but character wise as well. You may have known about Amirul from my earlier posts. He is someone who loves to irritate me by purposely saying "Diamlah!". It's his favorite quote.

He is also short and has curly hair like Juzzthin. And, Juzzthin's character Syed also loves to irritate people and prank people. The both of them also have a very similar laugh. Ironic huh?

Happy Valentine's Day

2011-02-14T16:48:00.002+08:00

Happy Valentine's Day everyone! Now, for those of you who are going to say that Valentine's Day is only celebrated among couples, keep it to yourself. For, we the Form 5 students in my school try to take every opportunity possible to do something nice to our classmates and friends as this is our last year in the school. So, today I received a lot of wishes from my friends.

Some of them decided to make it extra special by making small, cute gifts. Esther, thank you so much for that cute little card which by the way had a pink envelope. So, double thanks. Thank you to Fazira also for all those chocolates especially the Bounty one. It was so delicious. Thank you to Yen You for the chocolate as well. And, to the rest of you, thank you for all the wishes.

Before I end, I'm pretty sure today would have been an unforgettable day for Suyi and Pei Shen. *Hint**Hint*. Wonder why huh? They were so damn funny in canteen during recess. Happy Valentine's Day to the both of you:-)

Memories of the past

2011-02-13T15:14:00.006+08:00

Haha...Yugan, told you I'll post this picture on my blog. Be grateful I didn't post the other one. *wink**wink*

Let me begin by first of all saying, the photo shoot yesterday at my cousin's birthday party was great. For a beginner, the pictures turned out not bad. Some of the shots were really nice. One lesson learnt was that next time I want to be a photographer, remember to tie up my hair. I decided to let it loose yesterday and oh my god! I was sweating like nobody's business. Overall, it was fun and full of funny, memorable incidents. I don't think I'll be posting the pictures here as most of them are close up shots of people. So, they may not like it you see. Will try to post the ones with common things in it.

Anyways, after we came back from the party, my aunt(dad's sister) and family came over for a night. They had some function to attend in Seremban today. As usual, my cousin Rishan, my brother and I camped in my room. I switched on my night light which gave it a very nice feeling. We spoke and spoke and laughed and teased each other and played games, watched TV and spoke again and finally slept around 2 am I think. It's been quite some time since we last did that. It was fun though.

Today, my brother and I spent the morning sorting out the computer accounts and stuff. As we were doing that, we bumped into some old mails we used to send each other. Maybe some 5, 6 years back. They were so hilarious. We used to beautifully create stories teasing each other, and some mails were one-lined mail with just a list of nicknames we created for each other. I know, now thinking about it, it sounds lame but back then, it was almost like our hobby. We laughed and laughed as we read it until my stomach ached. I can't believe I was so childish at that time.

My First Assignment

2011-02-12T15:24:00.002+08:00

I'm really excited today as it's my first photography assignment. It's my cousin Rishi's 7 year old birthday party tonight and I'm going to be the photographer. Well, it's not really like I was appointed or anything but I volunteered to take pictures. The main reason being, my dad just bought the Canon's 50mm portrait lens am I'm really eager to try it out. My main interest in photography is people photography. I just simply love how you can capture the emotions and special moment on people's face. Later, when you view the photos, it'll seem like the memories flood back. Well, I hope I can create that effect tonight. Wish me luck.

For now, enjoy a video from me. The song is called Yathe Yathe from the movie Aadukalam. I'm sort of addicted to the song right now.

The guy in the video who's singing the song is G.V Prakash, the singer and music director of the song. He also happens to be the nephew of A.R Rahman.

Not bad heh?

Laughter

2011-02-11T17:13:00.002+08:00

Whether or not I realize it, I've been laughing a lot in the past two days. I think my close friends would have realized I was pretty quiet or rather in a mood swing phase this past week. However, last two days was different. There were many little incidents that made me laugh so much.

1. The jokes with Hani in class

2. Crapping with Kah Mei

3. Pearl and her self-praising

4. The cute arguments between Haish and Harresh

5. Dianne's hyperness

6. Maheshan's lame jokes

7. Farid's way of praising himself

8. Amirul and his 'Diamlah!'(I noticed that his laughter is kind of weird...like those creepy ghosts laughing)

9. Pei Shen's excitement in the canteen when she sees that"someone" during recess and Hakim trying to get her to talk to the "someone"

10. Maha's stupid fishes and ponds joke

These small everyday incidents make my day. It makes me laugh so much until when I don't laugh, it seems weird. Like mentioned in my earlier post, my bad mood is better now. Especially after talking to Dianne and Farid yesterday. Like what Farid said, she's not worth it for me to be stressed up. So, I rather shrug it off. Anyways, I felt much much better after talking to you guys. So, thank you so much Farid and Dianne for listening to me. I appreciate it.

One common issue....An unexpected person:-)

2011-02-09T19:00:00.002+08:00

Stayed back today for PBSM meeting. I was pretty stressed out for "some" reason during EST. I really mean it. This person has been pissing me off a lot recently. Not that it always bothers me as I usually shrug it off. But today was the limit. She got too much. Anyways, I managed to distract it as I was talking to Pn. Evelyn about the essay format, marking scheme and how to score. Then, as soon as we got out of the class, Dianne asked me why was I so serious-faced and I told her. I felt better after that.

During lunch, Pavitrra joined us and oh my god! The moment we started talking, we realised we had so much in common in terms of the issues faced. We spoke and spoke for a good half an hour. I felt so much better to know that someone else has got a similar problem and talking to her was great. Out of everyone, I never expected her to be having similar problems. Anyway, it was great talking to you Pavi! Thank you. I hope you know that you really managed to calm me down.

Beauty

2011-02-08T18:49:00.003+08:00

Phew! Thank god my English oral test went smoothly today. Though I only penned down the speech last minute and didn't have proper time to memorize it, I still managed to get done with it. Actually, I remembered all the points by heart because I'm the one who wrote it. So, all I had to do was go up and come up with my own sentences. I felt relieved after doing it. The title was 'Beauty'. Today was quite free as Add Maths teacher didn't come in. So, was doing my own work with Pearl, Kah Mei and Haiswarya. And we also came up with a new nickname for someone. It's 'Vampire'. Not that the someone is as evil as a vampire or anything. It was the first thing that came to my mind.

I'm staying back for PBSM(red cresent) tomorrow. Just realised that I'm too free today as I had very little homework. So, as usual back to blogging. I think that's all the updates from now judging from the fact that I'm practically blogging every single day now. Bad, bad. Must reduce. Okay, so till the next update, bye bye...

Back to school

2011-02-07T18:51:00.002+08:00

Hello everyone! I'm here yet again to update on what I'm doing. After a week of holidays during which I was a very good girl and did a lot of studying and revising, it's back to school! It definitely was a little hard to wake up this morning. However, the moment I stepped foot inside the school, seeing the familiar faces and the hyperness in the air with everyone busy describing their holidays was simply awesome. The first person I saw in school was Maheshan. Spoke to him about the upcoming camp. Sorry that I can't go lah Maheshan:-) See, only 15 Form 5 prefects are allowed to go for it. Since Maheshan is really eager to go, he's trying to convince us to go as well but I really can't afford to have another distraction.

And oohh.... There's a new boy in my class. He's name is Ahmad Firman. I forgot the balance of it as it's really super long I tell you. He is Indonesian mix Malay mix Pakistani mix Dutch. I know! Rojak. Okay, that's all the updates now. Got to go practice my English oral speech. Wish me luck!

Gong Xi Fa Cai

2011-02-02T11:56:00.002+08:00

Hello readers, I seem to be really active on blogging huh? Well, that's because blogging is my form of resting after studying/finishing assignments/doing Moral folio/writing essays. Somehow, writing helps my mind relax. Whether it's writing an essay, story, or just ranting about in my blog. So, here I am again to wish all of my Chinese readers a very Happy Chinese New Year.

p.s Pei Shen and Yen You, I'm still waiting for my angpao.

Achamma, my grandmother

2011-01-30T17:00:00.003+08:00

This is an essay I wrote in class for English. It is partially true, part fiction. I think it is one my best works so I'm gonna publish it here. Please don't encourage plagiarism. Hope you enjoy it and do drop your comments on the chat box.

Inside a four- walled white painted room, a room so plain and dull and a room with a grave atmosphere lies the bed. I sit at the foot of what is to become HER bed and glare into her dismal eyes. I can’t stop staring at the old skin hanging from her chin just flapping around. When she tries to smile or talk, it’s like watching waves in the ocean because her wrinkles seem to go away for a second and come right back. She seems like such a simple soul, yet full of unused energy. As one gazes deeper, no happiness is shown. The hospital is draining her last emotions. Her world is slowly crumbling and there is nothing she can do about it.

Achamma, my grandmother, has just been admitted to the hospital for the fourth time in six months. Doctors do not know how to diagnose her, but they are still trying. I guess they are just holding back from telling us that her remaining life span is short. She feels alone and scared as she enters a world known to her all too well. She will wake up in a bed that is not hers and a room soon to become home. Nobody knows how to console her or whether she even wants comforting. Every once in a while, she speaks of the way things used to be. Neither is she in a five-star hotel nor is her room a deluxe suite with a four poster bed but she always has a pretty smile planted on her face.

Achamma turned 86 this year and in the course of her years, she has accomplished many things. She was a rubber tapper’s wife and a small village school teacher before deciding to retire. Though she only had an education up to Form3, she swore to do better for her family than what her mother could do. Being a single mother to six children was definitely not easy. Yet, achamma would always say, a mother’s job is the best of all. I can recall her giving me money during Deepavali and commanding, “Now, don’t tell anyone because they’ll get jealous and want some also.” I would never ask for the money but it always appeared. I am sure she did this for all her grandchildren but it made me feel a little more special. She was good at making others feel as if they are worth more than they actually are.

Achamma had been staying with us from ever since I remember. Gone were those days when we had fun together. She would take me to birthday parties and many after school activities. One such party she gave me a ride to, was especially memorable. She left me at a friend’s house for a slumber party and was on the way back when she remembered that I forgot to take my pyjamas. She called to say she was coming to send the pyjamas. I was too embarrassed that I hid in the toilet when she came. Now, I regret it. She was just being concerned. She has not worn anything but saree in all my 16 years of knowing her. She has not changed into the usual hospital attire yet.

Physically, achamma’s appearance has slowly diminished throughout the years. In her younger days, she was a slightly plump lady. Maybe she was just a good cook but one would say there was never a meal she would miss. Her once vibrant curly hair is now short and thin. There is no colour to it, seemingly no purpose either. Her teeth are no longer teeth but dentures. They have faded into a pale yellow shade a have a slight odour to them. Behind her extremely large bifocal lensed glasses are her sorrowful eyes. The glimmering bright blue has slipped away and found a home some place else. The eyes she now own tell a different story. They show the obstacles she has overcome and the battles yet to be fought.

I live with the lessons she taught me, and maybe I can retain those in hopes of teaching others. I begin to feel a look of depression settle under her eyebrows. As I gently surround her weak body with the corse blanket, her hair becomes golden and her eyes alive. Her views will stay the same but her imagination will grow. She is now ready to face the world at least one more time. I find myself wondering. Is it really worth it?

-Ashwinee Rvan-

Deja Vu or Trick Of The Mind?

2011-01-30T15:26:00.002+08:00

I'm usually not the kind of person who believes in Deja Vu. Yet, sometimes certain unexplainable things happen to you and your mind starts scrambling for answers. Answers you may never get yet they are there somewhere. I mean every thing in this wotld, every happening, every existence has got a reason, a meaning, an answer. Right? Things don't just be the way they are for no particular reason. So, is stuff like Deja Vu. Before I get all scientific about this, let me just tell you what this post is all about.

Like mentioned in my earlier post, I was having a Maths day yesterday. Completing homework, assignments and all stuff Maths. I only went to bed yesterday after finishing all these stuff. Or so I thought. Believe me or not, I woke up around 5.30 am suddenly remembering that there was one question I didn't complete. I remember the time cause I checked my phone. I even set a reminder on my phone to remind me to finish it up in the morning. I have no idea whether this is something like Deja Vu or it's just another trick of the mind. Whatever it is, thank you so much for you saved me from seeing Pn.Heng's angry face.

Of Numbers and Symbols

2011-01-29T14:55:00.002+08:00

Today is practically the day of numbers for me. After coming back from badminton with Pearl in the morning, I started off finishing the countless little bits and pieces of correction in my Maths work. Pn.Heng is very particular when it comes to her work so as expected, the whole class got corrections to be done here and there. To top it off, she asked us to start doing the Maths model papers. So, I had a date with my calculator, compass, pencil, eraser and of course my brain since morning. Just taking a break now from seeing numbers the whole day. Shall begin back soon. A+ for SPM is just within my reach.

Doctors and Surgeons in 5 Browser

2011-01-27T16:28:00.003+08:00

Like mentioned in my earlier post, today was the day us "new medical graduates" in 5 Browser self proclaimed the Dr title and thus became the "5 Browser School of Frog Surgery". Cool huh? The day started with us(Haish, Pearl, Esther, Kah Mei, Fazira and I) fooling out with the tiny little frogs Pearl brought. It was so damn cute I tell you that we didn't have the heart to kill it. Esther and Haish even named them. Biology was the first lesson(thank god). By the time I went to the lab after my duties, they already gave chloroform to the frogs to make them faint. Our group got one of the smallest frogs. Dr.Haiswarya and Dr.Ashwinee got ready for the operation by putting on the lab coat, gloves and masks. Wah! All looked like professionals. The whole process of "operating" on the frog was really fun and exciting. The heart was as small as small beads. So interesting. And...it was still beating when we tried to take it out from the frog's body. Denise's group brought a much bigger frog thus the whole crowd was there. This gave us more room to perform our surgery. Lol. Overall, it was an amazing experience. Thanks to our lovely Bio teacher Pn.Radna.

The Frog and 5 Browser

2011-01-24T17:59:00.002+08:00

Blood, insects, and slimy skinned animals have always been the worst fear of my life. Can you ever imagine having the three shown together at you? Well, that's what I'm gonna face on Thursday. As the current Biology syllabus for Form 5 states, there is no dissecting of any kind of creepy crawly creatures required in our lab work. However, since my class consists of 41 super excited, energetic, hyper, inquisitive people, my dearest Biology teacher decided that she should show us the tedious process of cutting up a frog into tow and then examining whatever "stuff" inside. All in the name of Science. She requested us to bring a frog per group to school on Thursday. I have a feeling this is going to be reaaally messy. Wish me luck:-)

P.s I really don't want to kill a frog!

My cute treasures

2011-01-23T18:39:00.004+08:00

If you are close to me or know me well, you would know that I simply adore soft toys especially those cute ones. No, not teddy bears but simply any soft plush toys. Also, you would know that my room is stuffed with soft toys and I have a rack dedicated to them. First of all, let me clarify something. Owning soft toys or filling up your rack with them at the age of seventeen is NOT wrong. Note the not. Every girl has got her own addiction and obsession right? Same with me. I wouldn't exactly call this an addiction but more like a fun hobby. I started collecting soft toys since I was born! I mean literally. Since I was the eldest grandchild of the house, I was showered with all kinds of toys mostly being soft toys. First, my mom kept them safely for me. Over all the shifting and my terrible play moods those toys survived until today. Now that I can afford to take care of it on my own, they lie safely in my room.

Mr. Kangaroo. I got him from Gold Coast, Australia in 2006. It only cost me about RM 12. I love the little joey inside his pouch.

Madamme Louisa. Haha..Don't laugh at the name. I was 9 at that time. My grandfather gave it to me for Deepavali. She'll sing and dance for you when you pull her hand. Cool huh?

Sweetie(right) and her no-name boyfriend. Sweetie was a free gift form some clothes shop. Got it around 8 years old. The boyfriend was from my mom 4 years back.

My oldest toy. Meet Miss Pinky. It was pink once upon a time. Sigh... Given to me by my aunty from Singapore when I was born so the doll is technically my age! See what I meant by I started collecting ever since I was born?

Madamme Alisaa. Got it for doing well in my Primary three final exam. Bought from Jusco, Puchong. It is one of those dolls where you can change its clothes and accessories. Since I have no idea where everything went, she remains in her old clothes.

Snow white. I have no idea where I got that name from but this sweet little thing was bought at Jusco, Klang around 7 years old.

One of the more recent ones so I was matured enough to not give it a name.

Brown puppy. Apparently, I made a big fuss in the shop insisting that my mom bought this particular one for me. I was around 1 year old! Can you believe that? I have another smaller blue one thus the name being Brown puppy and blue puppy. Whenever my brother and I used to play family, Brown puppy used to always be the bad child for no particular reason. Children and their imagination...

No idea where I got this one from.

Winee the Pooh! From grandmother's brother in Singapore. Actually it was given to my youngest brother but now it belongs to me!

Sweetie. Also, one of the early ones. Bought around three years old.

My almost complete collection. The rest not so significant ones are scattered all around the room.

An amazing song:-)

2011-01-22T11:20:00.004+08:00

I listened to this song for the first time in 2004 when they played it as the theme song for the school's sports day march past. Honestly, it sent goosebumps running through my body. The feeling you get from the song is tremendous that suddenly I felt so proud to be part of the march past. The next time the song gave me that effect was when I was involved in the Prefect's Board march past in my secondary school's sports day in 2010. Without fail, I got the goosebumps again. That is how much power this song has. A wonderful song by Ella. Standing in the eyes of the world. The theme song for the Commonwealth Games 1998. Enjoy...

Here is the lyrics of the song in English.

Looking back all the years, all the sacrifice
If you want to be the best you've got to pay the price
You learn it from the very start just how hard you must try
'Coz if you don't spread your wings then you can't fly
Look at where you are today
Did you ever think that you would come all this way?

(And) now you're
"Standing In The Eyes Of The World"
Only moments away from what can be
There's a passion in the hearts of a few
Ever waiting inside to be set free
When the time comes and your spirit
Takes flight and you reach into
Your soul and live it with all of your might
And there's no surprise that you're
(And everyone tries when you're)
"Standing In The Eyes Of The World"

Many have hopes and dreams that will not come true
And all of them left behind now they will live in you
Everyone feels the same once a day in the sun
But sometimes there is only room for one
Never ever been so near now the chance is finally here

(And) now you're
"Standing In The Eyes Of The World"
Only moments away from what can be
There's a passion in the hearts of a few
Ever waiting inside to be set free
When the time comes and your spirit
Takes flight and you reach into
Your soul and live it with all of your might
And there's no surprise that you're
(And everyone tries when you're)
"Standing In The Eyes Of The World"

Gotcha!

2011-01-21T14:58:00.002+08:00

Guess what? I got gotchaed today by my very "smart, talented actress" friends. I'm not even sure if there's such a word as gotchaed but oh well. It all started last Wednesday(day before yesterday). We came back to class form the computer lab. It was EST time and Miss Pearl Hoo who usually sits with Haiswarya decided to go and sit at the back. I, as the very good friend who realized this change, asked them what happened? "Hey, what happened? You guys fought is it?" I only asked because both of them had this very serious look on their faces. Then, they answered yeah they had a fight. Haish even came up with this story that she argued with Pearl and said something she shouldn't have.

That day after EST, Esther asked them both to talk and sort out their issues and Pearl started "so-called emo". This caused Haish to scream at her and I remember her exact words. "Eh, no need to actlah. I know you're a very good actress right? You want people to symphatise on you right? Enoughlah." Now, when you here your usually sweet friend blurt out something like that, wouldn't you really believe that there is a tiff between them? Esther and I even had our conversation after that about how to get them back on good terms. Since yesterday was day off due to Thaipusam, the act resumed today. Before recess was AGM for co-curriculum so when we got back to class after recess, Esther told me to stay in class for 5 minutes after the bell rings as she wants to "unite" the seperated friends. Yeah right lah.

As we stood there with Harresh keenly watching to see if there's any real fights that's gonna break out, the three of them(Esther, Pearl and Haiswarya) suddenly screamed gotcha! Only then did I realized that I was being fooled all the while. Oh my god! I can't believ I actually got sucked into this. Anyways, kudos to you guys for pulling of such a feat as I rarely get tricked you know.... Bangga:-)

Halloween 2010

2011-01-20T15:15:00.004+08:00

As usual, my posts tend to be "slightly delayed". So, here is the post on how my Halloween went about last year. I just got the pictures so don't blame me. Last year, Halloween was one day before my final exam finished. My youngest brother Avinash's friend Yoveena organised her birthday party on that day. It was held at the USJ 16 gazebo with obviously, Halloween as the theme. Not a big, elaborate one but just painting your face, listening to ghost stories and well, having fun of course. And ooh Darren and Farid, if you are reading this, that girl had a MAN UNITED themed birthday cake. Enough talking, here goes the pictures. I don't have pictures from the party. These are my "beautiful face" pictures.

My brother with his so-called scary expression. Haha...

Ehem ehem..How do I look? That stain on my shirt is supposed to be fake blood but since I'm wearing a red shirt, it is quite invisible.

Oh my gosh! I love this picture. The whole composure with the dark background. It gives a shining effect on my face. Like in movies.

Presenting to you...the ghosts of USJ 16. We actually were walking from the playground to my house looking like that at 12.30! We alsmost scared a guard who was on his bike doing his rounds.

Another picture made perfect with the effects of the lights behind us.

Cuteness

2011-01-19T22:32:00.003+08:00

-Meet Lakshan Rvan-

Isn't he sooo cute? It's my cousin. I love his eyes. So big and round simply adorable. That's one thing about us. When you are young, you've got those cute baby eyes which tend to dissapear into small eyes with huge eyebags the moment you grow up. Haiz...

Rants of a Form 5

2011-01-15T14:07:00.001+08:00

I've been really busy lately. No, this is not just one of those frequent statements used by bloggers to excuse their inactiveness in blogger. I literally was super busy lately. Just ask any of the 5 Browserians and they'll tell you. Oh my gosh. The amount of homeworks we got!!! Yes, we are the respected Form 5 students of SMK USJ 12 who are going to carry the name of the school to the national level when we excel in our SPM examinations. So, why don't you simply start the year by throwing in tonnes of homework and reminding us every single second that we are Form 5's and thus are not supposed to be doing anything else other than studying? What the hell. Only now I've got time to sit down and look at something other tan books and books and more books.

Exceptionally Excited

2011-01-05T20:58:00.003+08:00

It is the first week of school and I'm feeling exceptionally excited over it. Don't ask me why. Because I'm gonna try to explain why. First of all, my class is situated in the top floor of Block Bitara which by the way faces the Twelveans Paradise. Which means one thing. I can feel the freshness of the morning air and the sweet smell of the tress right from my seat. Next, my sitting has changed from last year. I'm sitting with some new friends as well as old ones. I'm also happy that my close friends are sitting near me. Also, I've got great teachers. Pn.Hamimah for Add Maths is great! I also think my excitement is because I have new goals and dreams for this new year some of which I've already planned out in detail. Thus, I can't wait to execute those plans. Overall, it's a brand new year, a brand new classroom, a brand new syllabus to learn, and brand new chance to prove myself. So, let me take it my way from here. Like what Ong and Qaiyan were saying, there is no highway, there is only MYWAY!! Haha.... Damn funny wei! Qaiyan's new slogan for the Discipline section.

Happy 2011 Everyone!!

2011-01-01T20:48:00.006+08:00

=HAPPY NEW YEAR 2011=

A little too late to wish? It's okay. Not a suitable picture to wish New Year? Well, that's something I'm going to explain now. How I spent my new year's day. Let's start from yesterday night. I was watching the New Year special show co-organised by Singapore's Vasantham and Malaysia's Astro. When the clock struck midnight, loads of smses started floodind my phone. From friends and relatives. The first one was from my Singaporean friend Anneeshah and Farid. I didn't reply all of it. I think I only sent new year messages to my cousin's Kavitha, Ruben and Suren. Which of course I got the reply only at 11 this morning.

Anyways, unlike any other year I went to bed early last night right after the countdown. Woke up at 7 am this morning unlike *cough**cough* ehem ehem someone.... and got ready to go to the temple. The Pudu Vinayagar Temple in KL. Wow! Was the temple crowded or what? There was hardly any space to breathe. It was tight packed. Of course today being the new year, we waited patiently in line to get to the main deity to pray. After temple, we went to Pelita Nasi Kandar for breakfast. Next stop, KLCC. It's been almost a year since I last went there. Crazy right? Here comes the explanation to the picture above. We went there to watch the movie Manmadhan Ambu(above). My rating? 6/10. I wouldn't say it's a great movie but yes, it had some elements of comedy here and there. However, it started getting a little too predictable towards the end and that spoiled the suspense. Not one of Kamal's greatest movies neither Madhavan's nor Trisha's. But I really love the songs in it and the beautiful backdrop of Paris, Venice, and Barcelona. Overall, I would say it's a good entertainment movie but don't set your hopes too high.

After getting some books at Kinokunia and some more walking around, headed back home. I was having a terrible headache just now but it's much better now. So, before the day ends, let me wish all of you beloved readers of my blog HAPPY 2011!!!!

Story of a SMILE

2011-01-01T19:23:00.000+08:00

Recently, someone told me that I've been a huge part of their 2010. I asked that someone, how? She answered that I have made her smile on many ocassions. At first, I didn't quite get what she meant. I mean, okay so I have made you smile. That's a big deal? What she told me next made me realise how much one thing you do can mean so much to another. She said, "Ashwinee, I was never the kind of person who can handle problems nor was I the kind of person who can smile through a difficult time. Yet, you made me do it. I always wondered how do you do it. Smile and laugh and be happy when you have a huge burden within you. But you made me realise that you only live life once and it is best that you live that once in a lifetime opportunity to the best. Thank you."

That day, I understood the power of a smile. Like I always tell my friends, when you have a problem, don't look up and say "God, I have a big problem." Instead, look at yourself and say "Problem, I have a big god and a even bigger willpower." To my friends, I'm always cheerful, I don't ever stress up too much and I do work with a smile. Why? Because I simply enjoy doing the work. No matter how hard something is, when you smile and enjoy it it wouldn't seen that hard after all. How much a simple smile can do, you never know. Try smiling to the security guard in the mornings or to your canteen lady or even to your teacher. Whatever stress or problems they have will be forgotten for a moment when they see that beautiful sight of a smile. Why, a smile can turn even the ugliest human beautiful and vice versa.

So, start smiling everyone. You may be influencing somebody's life too. In a good way. And to that someone, thank you for appreciating that smiles. I never knew that a simple smile could mean so much to you. Keep smiling:-)

Memories

2010-12-29T13:25:00.005+08:00

I was lying down on my bed in my beautiful pink room thinking about stuff. Now, I rarely do this but yesterday was different. I just couldn't sleep. I kept thinking about how fast time flies. About how much one can achieve in 365 days. I would strongly say that 2010 has been a truly amazing year for me. I literally did achieve all the things on my 2010 resolution list. Great huh? I was thinking about this post for a long time. I wanted to list down all the stuff I have achieved or done in the past one year. It's not easy to get through a year without screwing up something. I have screwed up too. But the important thing is about being able to get up and say that this year is going to be the way I want it to. I'm not a person who believe in fate. Fate is a reason created by losers to hide their failure. None of us are fated to be the way we are. It's all up to us. Our life and the way we want it to be is in our hands. You dream, have a vision and you work hard to achieve it thus landing you the kind of life you want.

Likewise, at the beginning of 2010, I had a dream. A dream to be somebody. To achieve somethings. To craft my year how I want it to be. A year that is designed by me and created by me. I'm proud to say that I did it! Yes, undoubtedly there were struggles, there were incidents that would have almost spoilt my dream but somehow or another, I managed to get up and tell myself that it's all up to me. I can give up today and regret it later. Do I want to look back at the past year and have thousands of "If only....." in my head? I kick started the year by simply one by one working towards my goal. When there came the time where I stopped and asked myself, "Am I doing it right?", I just looked back at all those happy moments and smiled to myself. Whether or not we do something right, only we would know that.

Now, here I am at the end of the year 2010, sitting in front of my computer screen listing down my life in Year 2010.

1. I got myself into the Pure Science stream and into class 4 Browser. I believe that things just fitted perfectly like pieces of jigsaw puzzle in this case. I got into the stream I wanted, I got into the class I wanted and....all my friends ended up in the same class. What a great thing!

2. My grandfather passed away. Now, this is something I expected. He was already really sick from last year. So, I knew it was going to happen. It was just a matter of time. However, when it actually did happen, I couldn't accept it. Being a girl who has never lost someone close to her, the passing away of granddad came somewhat like a shock to me. Just seeing his motionless body lying there, tons of memories flashed past. From my childhood to now. Memories with him. I never knew what it felt like to lose somebody you love. Now, I do.

3. I won both the English Essay writing and Public Speaking competition held during the English Week. 2 certs added to my list of English competitions achievements. It was so much of fun. With Adam talking about London and the castles(he got third) and Dianne spoke about holidays. In the impromptu round, I was given the topic, beauty. I guess I did pretty well.

4. Presenting the new member of the SMK USJ 12 Debate Team, Ashwinee Rvan. I was selected to be in the school's debate team along with Dianne. We went for one competition with Wei Ken(the awesome 3rd speaker aka The Whip) and Muayyad(the 1st speaker) but sadly lost in the preliminary rounds.

5. I also took part in the Bahasa Malaysia Debate. Pertandingan Bahas Sekolah(The in-school Malay Debate Competition). We finished 6 th out of 12 teams I think. Not bad for first timers huh? Divyana and May Yen were my teammates.

6. I celebrated my Sweet 16th birthday party with my close friends. Something I always wanted to do. There was alot of dancing and singing and laughing going on. It was amazing. Thanks to Pearl, Remitra, Mahavithya, Haiswarya, Suyi, Yen You, Jing Yi, Dianne, Brigitta, Kah Mei, Farid, Hakim and Jeremiah for all the gifts and most importantly for making it there.

7. I became part of the SMK USJ 12's Prefects Board's 2010/2011 Committee. I had so much fun while being part of the committee. The camps, the meetings, the endless discussions and all.

8. The TrEES Programme 2010! How can I forget this? I was the Student Project Leader for my school in this programme. Though it was our first time joining it, we managed to clinch the special award for the Best Waste Management Programme. I must thank my Project Team members for this. Fatin my lovely assistant, Anisa the secretary, Sasha the photographer, Farid, Hakim, Shi-Yi, Carmen, Ariel, Ying Qi and Samantha. Also, the boys in my class who really helped me alot in the Newspaper Collection. Though you guys were following me just to get out of class, thank you to Darren, Johnson, Eugene, Xuan Zhi and Poh Hong.

9. I got a Distinction for my ICAS(International Competition And Assessment for Schools) English Paper. I was also the Top 2% of Malaysia's participants.

10. I got all my 5 Chetan Bhagat books. Suddenly, I became a fan of him.

11. My long time dream was fulfilled. I always wanted to take part in a wedding preparation. Since I don't have any older siblings or cousins, I never got the chance. But recently, my second cousin Kavitha got married and I got the chance I was waiting for. I spent 12 days in Singapore just helping out in all the wedding preparations with Kavitha, her husbnad Suren and my cousin Ruben. I was also the emcee for her dinner. It was so much of fun.

12. Oohh....I went to Europe! Another one of my dreams. Visiting London, Paris and Belgium. I think this was one of the best holidays ever. The weather was so great and another difference was, my cousin Ruben joined us. It was fun jamming the computer and PS2 in the hotel lobby until late night.

13. I had a great dress up session with Dianne during the School's Twelveans Unmasked Finals Dinner. We were trying all sorts of clothes in her house and dancing to Hindi songs. Like two psychos. Seriously.

14. I was the co-emcee for the 2010 Prefects Dinner. A great night I must say. Thanks to all the hard work put in by the Committee.

I think thats about all the lovely incidents that happened in 2010. There may have been many more but these are the amazing few that got stuck to my heart. Again, I'm happy that the year ended up the way I wanted it to be. Though with some unexpected glitches here and there, I came through it. Didn't I?

Congrats Brother!

2010-12-23T21:18:00.002+08:00

I think most of you who read my blog know my brother, Arjun who is one year younger than me. He just got his PMR results and viola! He got straight As. 7 As to be precise. So, here is a little post dedicated to him. Congratulations brother. I was always confident that you will score though mom used to ask me to check on you. After the mid-year break, I could see the stress in you building up and you worked hard. So, you deserve this. Congrats again and have fun!

Also, congrats to my cousins Rishan and Yuva who both got 7 a's as well. I couldn't find a proper picture of the both of you. So, here is a pictureless dedication to you.

Cousin's Dinner

2010-12-23T20:50:00.005+08:00

Now, exactly one week after the wedding, the dinner was held on behalf of the bride's side in Singapore. I was the officially appointed *drum rolls* emcee! As expected? I know love doing the job of a emcee. More like I love talking and I love a crowd so tadah...it's the perfect job for me. Sadly though, I don't have any pictures of my emceeing cause all the pictures are with the official photographer. So, might upload it after I get it from them. For the time being, here it goes.

The ladies...all beautifully clad in sarees with my cousin(the bride) third from left. Man, I love her saree.

This guy is the last person I should take a picture with judging from the fact that I'm short and he's super tall. Like really tall and that's even with my heels! He's my distant cousin brother by the way.

I love this picture cause all of us look good in it. That's the bride and her brother.

The groom who is apparently giving a very stylish pose.

Cousins...

The four of us. Okay, I'm not that short right? Don't laugh!

Family shot

My parents

The hall

The VIP table which is the only table with handmade name cards(made by me) on it. The picture is quite blur. Or else, you can spot my name there. Though I rarely sat down, I was proudly claiming that my seat was at the VIP table. Paiseh right?

Cousin's Wedding

2010-12-23T20:33:00.004+08:00

If you are a frequent reader of my blog, I think you should have known by now that I was in Singapore for 12 days attending my cousin's wedding and dinner. She got married on the 11th in Johor. I know what you are wondering. The groom is a Malaysian from Johor. So, I was there as one of the important helpers. What was my job? The most important job of all. Collecting the 'Moi' or givings as commonly known. You see, in most Indian weddings, people who attend give this thing called 'Moi' which usually is in the form of money of any amount. Traditionally, this was done to reduce the financial burden held by the bride and groom's family when arranging the marriage. However, nowadays people tend to do this just as a form of culture. And.... my job was to collect the MONEY!!!! Great job huh? So, I was diligently standing beside my cousin collecting all the envelopes given to her and stuffing it inside the bag. Of course I received several offers to exchange jobs but no! Mine is the best job. Anyways, as promised here are the pictures. Not great quality as it was taken from my mom's camera.

The girls bringing in the lamps during the bride's entrance. We were arranged according to age and height. So, *proud smile* since I'm considered tall, I was at the back.

The groom(closer to the priest) and the bride's brother(mappilai tholan). This means something like the groom's assistant performing the rituals. Note my dad at the back taking photographs.

Arrival of the bride.

The "welcoming committee". Standing at the entrance. The girl is from the groom's side. Her name is Thulasi. By the way, how do I look? The costume I'm wearing is called the pavada tavani a traditional costume worn by teenage Indian girls. Mine was bought from India, specially chosen by cousin. Nice right?

This is how the entrance looked like.

My family photo. Big family huh? Proud....

This time it's the parents blessing the bride.

Canteen Day costume

2010-12-23T20:23:00.001+08:00

Oh my god! I was looking for this picture all over the place and here it was in my mom's computer all along. This picture was taken after the school's canteen day celebration. My class stall was themed Wicked Wonderland and I had to play the role of the Red Queen from Alice in the Wonderland with Shi-Yi dubbing the voice for me. That was a hilarious day. I was wearing a crazy looking thing on my head specially designed by Esther with thick blue eyeshadow and a spear in my hands. Imagine walking around the school like that promoting my stall. Of course I wasn't alone. Shi-Yi, Min Ling, Ying Qi, Sasha, Ariel, and Carmen were all dressed in funky costumes too. Sadly, I don't have a picture of me in the funky costume.

Aal Izz Well

2010-12-18T12:37:00.004+08:00

Haha.... My motivational quote for the moment. Aal Izz Well. My stay in Singapore for the past one week has turned out to be exceptionally good. Certain unexpected things happened though. Not gonna mention it here:P. One of the missions was achieved. However, overall, this is one experience I shall never forget. Will write more about it soon!

Absence of Blogger

2010-12-13T17:40:00.002+08:00

Hey guys, missed me? Now, don't you dare laugh or puke or cough or choke. I know a few people who would would be doing this when reading this. Yugan, Yuva, my brother, Farid, Remitra, akim, Pearl, Shi-Yi, and my gang in 4 Browser 2010. OKay, so back to the topic. Why am I so inefficient? Simple reason being I'm currently in Singapore attending my cousin's wedding which was over on Saturday. The reason being why I am so active suddenly. Sorry, no pictures just yet. Pictures are with my dad. So, will try to upload them soon. For now, ladies, feast your eyes.

I can't wait to get back to Malaysia to watch Harry Potter.

Mission Accomplished

2010-12-05T11:03:00.006+08:00

No, I'm not talking about the long time mission I had to meet Surya. This is a more recent mission. See, I have written earlier about this book called The 3 Mistakes Of My Life by Chetan Bhagat and how I wish to get hold of the other three books written by him. During my recent trip to India, I managed to do just that, thanks to Crossword Bookstores and Landmark Bookstores, Mumbai. Imagine my reaction when I walked into the first bookstore and asked the guy at the counter(who by the way looked like he just walked out of a dream) for the book, and the guy stares at me blankly and then says there is no such book!!! Thank God this other girl came to help me or else the guy would have had a terrible time dealing with me looking for that particular book.

So, anyway, I managed to get all three books:) Yes!

Book No 1

Book No 2

Book No 3

I'm Back!

2010-11-27T20:28:00.004+08:00

I personally find the picture above amusing. Why? Just look at the two guys at the back of me. Doesn't it look like they are coming to capture me or something? Lol. The guy in front was our tour guide. The guy at the back....no idea. By the way, this picture was taken at Taj Mahal, Agra.

Okay, where was I these 10 days? INDIA!!! Went there on the 17th and was back at 11 pm yesterday. Phew! What an amazing 10 days. Now, I'm not gonna elaborate further on what I did nor am I gonna upload any pictures for the time being because I am simply lazy. But! I promise you that I will try my very best to do ASAP and when I say it, I mean it. It will definitely not end up like my birthday post. Let me just tell you, the vacation was really nice and I enjoyed myself. Obviously, I still missed Malaysian food. I'm gonna write a post about the reasons why Malaysia is a way better place then India. Wait for it.

My Dream Life

2010-11-16T23:09:00.003+08:00

Today, as I sat reading a novel about this girl's life in New York, I started pondering over how I would like my life to be in future. So, after a while of thinking and dreaming, this is what I came up with.

1. A beach-side bungalow with an ifiniti swimming pool and a large garage. I should have my own art room(a large one equipped with all kinds of arts and craft stuff). The swimming pool should be located with a panoramic view of the beach. The interior of the house should have a modern design with a touch of contempory design. There are many more requirements but it'll be too long to write here.

2. A job at a leading company preferably something related to PR. Maybe study dentistry and get a job at one of the leading dental companies. My office should look something like this but with a little more pink and a little more lady's touch to it. Lol

3. Obviously, I need a method of transportation right? Well, besides a Ducati 848 Evo which I can definitely not ride to office, I should own a Porsche.

4. Own a work suit like this one or something a little more posh.

5. Own some grand evening gowns and dresses. And of course the matching jewellery.

6. Eat in restaurants like that. Without having to worry about the price of course.

7. Fly in first class. By that time, flying in first class should be normal.

8. Able to organize my birthday party in a place like that.

9. Own a chocolate shop. Now, don't you dare laugh. If Dianne is reading this, she's gonna be saying typical Ashwinee. Yeah, this is one of my wild fantasies.

10. Last but not least, get married to a guy like that:P Lol. Yeah right lah.

Hosanna - My Favourite Song

2010-11-16T12:09:00.002+08:00

For those of you who don't understand tamil, just listen to the music.

Addiction

2010-11-15T20:25:00.000+08:00

During Deepavali, my uncle introduced me to this website called Cool Toad where you can download all kinds of songs ranging from classical, blues, romantic, dace, jazz, hip hop, latin and blah blah blah and in various languages too. So, I got so addicted to downloading songs to my Ipod that I downloaded about 30 songs today itself. Mostly Hindi songs, one Korean song. Hakim introduced me to this song called Gee Gee by god knows who. Honestly, I'm not Kpop freak so pardon me in my lack of knowledge in that field. After listening to that song on Hakim's mp3, I got so attracted to that song that I kept singing the chorus. Finally downloaded it. Ha! Tommorow,

Dreams

2010-11-15T19:59:00.002+08:00

=The Top 2 things on my Wishlist=

1. To buy my very own Ducati Superbike 848 Evo.

-If you are laughing or ridiculing me right now, please go on. I shall prove it to you that I am capable of owning THAT BIKE! It will one day be my darling. Haha.. it may be fat hopes for now judging from the way my mom and grandma and practically everyone in my family(except my dad) stares at me the moment I bring up the subject. Ruben, I'm still waiting for a ride in your bike. You know, I always imagined myself in a complete leather suit with leather boots, sunglasses, and a cool helmet with a bike like that on a beautiful Swiss countryside road. Wow!

2. To meet Surya and spend a day in his shooting location.

- Now, this MAY happen. Emphasise on the may. I say may because well, I may go to India on a holiday and may bump into him in the airport and may say hi and may start talking about what a big fan I am and then he may offer an invite to spend a day with him in the shooting location. Rofl. If such a thing as miracle exists, then maybe my fascinating imagination may come true. And if it does, man I'll use it to bully Yugan forever. Haha...

Okay people, quit laughing now. If Farid or Hakim are reading this they may be rolling on the floor now. Hey guys, I may just end up fulfilling both

Hectic in Heels

2010-11-14T21:37:00.005+08:00

Now, stop pondering over the title wondering what the hell I'm talking about. I'm talking about the SMK USJ 12 Prefects Dinner 2010 held last Friday(12th November) from 7.30 to 11.30. Now, does that sound hectic to you? No? Just another school function where you come, eat, talk, take lots of photographs and enjoy? Well, try arriving at 5 and then walking three floors down to buy a toothpick and then getting ready to be the emcee and having to wait for an hour for some "delayed" VIPs and while the others are performing, you've got no place to sit and you are rushing to make sure that everything is smooth all the time watching the others eat and enjoy themselves and all the time walking around in your hells. Still doesn't sound hectic to you? Go get your head checked.

You see, I was part of the organising committee for the dinner. My position was the Events Manager. All the committee members had to go to Empire right after school to do some final rehearsal and make sure everything is settled. Me, Dianne, Ong and Maheshan tumpang in Maheshan's car. Lih Wern dropped me and Dianne at Dianne's house around 2.30. Waited ther until 3.30 for dad to come and pick us. Came back and dressed up, checked on each others looks and then went to the saloon to get my hair done. It was only 10 bucks! Arrived at Empire around 5.00. Met up with the rest of them and started getting things ready. That's when Jefferd asked Dianne and I to get masking tape and toothpicks resulting in us walking three floors down.

After everything was set up and the prefects were all in the hall, as usual, the VIP was delayed. I'm not gonna mention who it was but I guess if you are one of the committee member, you should know very well who it is. Finally, after an hour of delay, she arrived in style!(yeah right lah) Denice and I were constantly complaining cause "the VIP" made us wait so long. I gave the opening speech and the opening performance started. Then, Dianne and Jefferd took over until their performance which left me handling the lucky draw part, performance part 1, dinner and awards part 1. Thank god Maheshan got the waiter to bring some drinks for us in front. I only got to sit down when the second part of the performnace started. Had a little bit of food while watching the Breakout performance which was a blast!

The whole function ended around 11.30. The committee members stayed back to clean up and have a group shot with the teachers. Afiq came and spoke to me and Dianne. He wished us good luck and told us to take care and all. He's speech earlier was so touching. Man, I think we are all gonna miss his singing and his bubbly personality. He's a great leader. Finally, after everything is done and after saying goodbye to everyone, Dianne and I left at 12.05. Imagine our horror when we saw that the escalators were switched off. Errgh.. Another walk down three floors. Overall, we were glad that the function was smooth except for the delay. Didn't get to take pictures though.

First Timers Experience

2010-11-11T16:44:00.001+08:00

I have written about this programme in the blog before. So, today was the closing ceremony and prize giving for the competition. It was held in Bukit Damansara. Our school was represented by me, Fatin, Anisa, Hakim, Farid, Sasha, Farhana, Samantha and Grace. There was a exhibition where every school was given an exhibition booth and asked to put up an exhibition on what we did for our campaign. I wouldn't say ours was the best because there were some other schools with A LOT of exhibition materials. But it was a very nice experience being part of this programme. The VIP's visited each booth and were asking questions while the media people were busy snapping away. We felt like VIPs ourselves too. Lol. There were two reporters who came to interview us. One from The Sun and the other from SJ Echo.

After the exhibition came the best part, the prize giving. They announced the Special Awards first. We didn't expect to get anything but Farid kept on saying he's got the feeling that something's gonna happen. In the end, they announced our school's name for Best Waste Management System for what we did in the canteen. Wow! It felt so nice to walk up and get the mock cheque and plaque. We got RM 400 as the prize. Still haven't decided what to do with that money. We were quite satisfied that at least we got something even though it was our first time participating. Haha..happy lah. SMK USJ 8 were champions. SK SS 17 were the primary school champions. Congratulated them. On the way back, we stopped at McDonalds Taipan to celebrate. We were joking around about it being the first time us lepaking outside the school in school uniform.

Overall it was a great day. Had a lot of fun.

Hosanna...The Beautiful Song

2010-11-04T14:06:00.002+08:00

This song, Hosanna is from the movie Vinnaithaandi Varuvaaya(Will you Cross the Sky and come for Me?) by Director Gautham Menon. A.R Rahman did a really good job in this movie. All the songs were really really good. If you want to check out the songs, go to youtube and type the movie's name(above). Even if you don't understand tamil at all, you will instantly fall in love with this song. That is how good it is. I really love this song. So, please do go and check it out. I made Dianne listen to this song and now she is all over it.

My Sweet 16

2010-11-01T20:43:00.007+08:00

Okay, I know that this happened a long time ago but I just found the time to organise the pictures and resize it. So, here is the super delayed post. On the 17th of April, I celebrated my birthday in Pizza Hut, Taipan. Only a small group of close friends, and my family. I don't really have anything much to say about this let's just let the pictures do the talking.

A thorn among the roses

My school che che(elder sister)

And... my mei mei(younger sister)

Mr. Abdul Hakim...man, he's so tall.

My dear friend of 8 years, Pearl Hoo.

Jeremiah. He can really dance well you know. I never knew that until that day. He actually was the only guy in my party who agreed to dance!

Group picture

My youngest brother and his friend..Yoveena

I uploaded this picture to show you all the rose. Note the rose in my hand. Well, the Pizza Hut waiters were like coming and giving me red roses and wishing me Happy Birthday throughout my party. I got about 4 roses. Thanks guys!

Cake No. 1 - Provided by Pizza Hut

Cake No.2 - Bought by dad, my favourite American Chocolate Cake

Cake No.3 - Baked by Yen You. One week before my birthday, I was joking with her asking her to make me a brownie. I can't belive she actually did it. And the cake was really really nice. Thank you so much Yen You!

No, I wasn't posing with the phone. I was actually on the phone when my mom took this picture.

Everyone except Yi Ping, Pei Shen and Shi-Yi made it to the party. So, that's all the updates about my party. There, one job done. Finally! We did a lot of dancing but sadly everyone were too busy dancing so no one took any pictures. So, all the pictures I have are the decent ones. Haha, believe me. We were crazy when we were dancing.