Don't wanna die a virgin...

Introducing...

2011-03-11T12:30:00.001+08:00

Introducing...
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

...the boy.

Yes, we went to the Kit Chan concert, as a sorta celebration for our 2nd anniversary. Can you believe it? It's been 2 years. Wow.

Anyhow, I think his private nature has rubbed off me some, which explains the lack of posting here. That, and I'm just having too much fun in real life. :) Guess you can say I'm slowly but surely getting there in my life, except for some aspects, of course.

Now, lemme see if I recall how to do this blogging thing...Hehe.

2010-07-29T14:03:00.002+08:00

Milestones

Sometimes, it's scary that I have lived my life for this long thus far. Not that I'm a daredevil or anything, or that I put myself in constant risk every day. It's just that somehow, I can't wrap my mind around the concept that I have almost lived three decades. A small blip in terms of the universe's lifetime, but an entire treasure chest of memories, hurts and loves for me.

Yesterday, I officially graduated from my higher studies. A great achievement, no doubt, especially with all the hard work, effort and sweat I put into it. I can say it's definitely one of the milestones (of sorts) in my life. But sometimes, I can't help but wonder if, at the end of it all, it was just a paper-pushing exercise to keep my time here, in where I comfortably am, occupied. Most certainly, I gained lots of perspectives and knowledge abt my professional line. But, in the bigger picture, does it all really matter?

Life, love, family, friends, achievements...all of us struggle hard to juggle and balance among these every day and what happens if one of these priorities take a hard tug, and you're forced to make a decision that is so fucking scary to even think about, but extremely tempting and challenging at the same time? I guess we can only know when we're finally at that cliff's edge and find out what we are really made of.

And no, all this rambling is not courtesy of work stress (well, partly, I guess it is. :P). Rather, it's a certain chat with the Boy that got these stream of thoughts gathering force. In a way, it's good that we have each other to bounce such things off each other. At other times, I just wanna hide away with him in our fantasy beach house and not have any other cares in the world. Most of the time, the escapist side of me wins and we have a blast being together. But, things change, they have to. If not, what progress have we got to show that we're good together?

2010-02-14T23:03:00.003+08:00

In the spirit of Valentine's Day, I found this beautiful quote below:

“Find a guy who calls you beautiful instead of hot, who calls you back
when you hang up on him, who will lie under the stars and listen to your
heartbeat, or will stay awake just to watch you sleep... wait for the boy
who kisses your forehead, who wants to show you off to the world when you
are in sweats, who holds your hand in front of his friends, who thinks
you're just as pretty without makeup on. One who is constantly reminding
you of how much he cares and how lucky his is to have you.... The one who
turns to his friends and says, 'that's her.'” Unknown

One year on and we're still going strong. Here's to more happy times for us.

Hope all is well with everyone still reading this. Shall strive to post more and get into the habit of writing again. :)

2009-10-26T00:07:00.003+08:00

Power of Three

Can it really be more than a year ago that I wrote this? Wow. And to think that I hear those three little words *almost* every day now from the Boy and of course, I echo the same back to him. It's almost like a drug, having to say those words and making him smile that cheeky smile I love so much.

I. Love. You.

The power of those three words is enormous - how it can bring someone to the peak of happiness and delirious ecstasy, and making you think that anything is truly possible. It may be cliche, but as someone very dear to me has said, maybe corniness is exactly what is needed right now in our world.

So, go ahead. Next time you feel the urge to utter those three powerful words? Give in to it and let the rush of passion wash over you.

P.S. This post is brought to you, courtesy of a re-run of the SATC movie and aftermath of sweet messages from the Boy.

2009-04-07T12:00:00.003+08:00

Utada Hikaru

Everyone has their Japanese phase and I was no exception. There was a time I was crazy over Utada Hikaru's tunes, even when I had no idea what the hell she was singing about. Just her voice and the melodies were enough to make me buy her songs, which I would fail spectacularly at imitating during karoke sessions.

Now that I'm with the Boy, my passion for all things Japanese has rekindled. Not that I wasn't a big fan before, just that now I'm rediscovering all the quirky and familiar things I love about Japan. And Hikki is pretty much a big part of that which I usually associate with Japan. I guess it's her blend of R & B and J Pop that really attracted me; as the business world calls it, her "unique selling point". Ayumi Hamasaki, bleah, bleah, bleah.

When I caught her MTVs, it was always a case of coincidence, watching either through the TV screens at HMV or the MTV channel. It never occurred to me to YouTube her videos. Yes, yes, yes, I know I'm a turtle. But when I started YouTubing her, I just couldn't stop. And man, did the memories just flow right back in...

So, come with me and enjoy the flashbacks of my love for J Pop and my *ahem* lamented youth.

The very first MTV I saw Hikki and what made me started searching for her songs and albums. Man, that motorbike really got my hairs standing on end - guess it appealed to the escapist in me.

Woohoo! This is one great music to get the blood pumping, especially during my gym routines (which sadly I have completely abandoned). Who knew what the hell she was singing? Who cares? I just like the beats!

Ahhh, first love. Even if you don't listen to the lyrics, I bet you'll still cry listening to the instrumental version. Powerful stuff, teenage hormones. Hehe...

Sometimes, I'm really thankful for YouTube. English translations of Japanese songs, YouTube. Japanese translations of English songs, YouTube. Though I just might have to verify with the Boy on the accuracy of these translations. Haha!

The MTV for "Can you keep a secret?". I thought Hikki was weird in this video, showing such ardent affection and ermm fucking a robot with her doe eyes. But, ahhh, there's a twist to the end of the video. Cute, I thought.

Hmmm, can't seem to find the MTV for this song. But the live version's pretty good too. Hmmm, maybe I should buy her "Bohemian Summer" DVD.

Acid Psychedelic. Wicked costumes. What's not to like? Definitely a favourite of mine to listen while walking down crowded streets.

Again, no MTV for this song. Argh. Only what seems like a TV performance. Anyway, it's still a goodie worth enjoying.

Apparently, this version of "Distance" was dedicated to the memory of a female murder victim in Ikeda, Osaka. I really like the circus feel to this video though.

Yowza. Another hit in my books. The colours, the animation, the...the...WEIRDNESS of it all! I fucking love it!

But sadly, after the Sakura album, I kinda stopped following Hikki coz she got a bit too electronic for me. Hmmm, watching all these videos, I think I just might give her music another try. What do you think? :)

2009-02-13T13:05:00.004+08:00

An ode to the Boy

I love you for your wit and snarky humour.
I love the way you do sweet things, like poetry, to make me smile.
I love the way you look out for me and take care of me.
I love the way I can be so natural with you and just be myself, and that you let me be my natural self.
I love how we can talk about anything and everything, and never get bored with each other.
I love that you're the first guy to make me feel this way (and, of course, you know that from reading my blog! :P) and to really touch my heart in all my life.
I love you for your smiles and laughter.
I just love you.

- 1 Feb 09, 10:24am

What a delightful rush, this thing called love. *wistful sighs*

2009-01-02T23:40:00.004+08:00

Beacon
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Resolutions

So, it's goodbye, 2008, and hello, 2009. It was a year of most frenetic activity for me and, of course, the world in general. But, hopefully, all of us came out of it for the better.

It was also a year of travels for me - Melbourne, Copenhagen and Hong Kong. All cities I would love to travel again, budget permitting. Especially Copenhagen, where I only really had about 4 - 5 days. Definitely calls for more visits, I say.

For 2009, let's aim for Japan and Italy, shall we? And a broken bank account for SpaceCake, as well, I foresee. Hehe...

On the school front, I have to be grateful for the companionship of my colleagues. If not, I'm not sure I could have pulled through my first semester. Anyway, one semester down, three more to go! Woohoo...

So, just two more resolutions I shall attempt to keep: get rid of more body fats and fall in love more.

Stop saying 'no' to everything and maybe taking that leap of faith. I meant, with the falling in love part, not losing body fats part, of course.

Let's hope more light can be shone upon my world eh?

2008-08-15T00:01:00.003+08:00

A First

The other day, I had my first "I love you" from a member of the opposite sex.

But, let me explain further. This boy was not a family member, nor a close relative and I can safely vouch that all his mental faculties are intact.

However, the boy was only 4 years old, tops.

Nevertheless, my heart was touched that he could utter those three words (which most of the adult population would have difficulty even articulating to loved ones) only after a short visit to my library.

Thank you, little boy. You made my day just that little bit brighter.

2008-07-30T12:10:00.003+08:00

Policing Videos

I was absolutely disgusted when I read this news: YouTube criticised for gang rape video

How horrifying is it for our society when young teenagers feel secure enough to drug your drink, rape a mother in front of her young children and subsequently post the video of the gang rape on YouTube? What the hell does this signify for the future of mankind, when we can commit such hated crimes against each other?

Right now, I just feel extremely vile and nauseated. Ugh.

The weird thing is, I'm more bothered by the fact that our kids can have the stomach to do such things as raping, robbing, etc, than the fact that they're posting nonsense videos which are not being policed. Granted, the latter situation is equally horrifying. But doesn't the former situation warrant a bigger alert that our society needs fast education on what it means to be a decent human being?

When the fuck are we gonna wake up?

2008-07-10T21:36:00.003+08:00

I've been silent for a while now. I'm sure my words were sorely missed out here. Or at least, I'd like to think, my pictures.

And believe me, there were times when I felt this strong urge to pen down, or rather type out, my thoughts. But, when the blank screen showed up, that urge magically disappeared.

I hate to use work as an excuse, coz it barely takes me ten minutes to write a book review. Granted, it was a book review on a children's book. But, still...that task required less aforethought than my blogging. What's up with that?

Perhaps it's a sign that I've spending my time mostly with friends, whether it be catching movies or plain bumming around town. Which may be a good thing, coz then it demonstrates that my life does not completely revolve around a computer.

Hmmm, I'd like to think it's the second option. Better to be thought of as a party animal than a workaholic, I say.

In any case, more efforts shall be placed upon updating this little space of mine. So, we'll definitely play catch-up next time, with tea and biscuits, of course. Ginger snap biscuits, if you please.

2008-06-01T00:29:00.001+08:00

Operation Smile

Objective: To be reciprocated when I offer up smiles to strangers

Rationale: To ascertain the level of "hotness" I currently hold

Modus Operandi: A casual smile at the occasional hottie on the street, to elicit said smiles back.

Operation Scene 1: Sweating, panting and rollerblading. Nevertheless, made my decision to rollout the operation. The sweatiness and redness aspect shall determine how much extra 'hotness' I hold, even in this physically deteriorated state.

Target: A shirtless guy rollerblading. Race undetermined, possibly a mix of Caucasian and South American. Random targetting (ok, so maybe he had nice facial features...I'm only human)

Results: SCORE! He had a nice smile too, which contained subtle hints of flirtation and admiration.

Operation Scene 2: Once again, sweating and panting while jogging around my estate. Notice any themes I got running here? :P

Target: A jogging male, possibly in his late 40s. Facial features were average but gauging from his build, a possible UILF (Uncle I Like to Fuck)

Results: SCORE! But this time, it was more of a smile reserved for fellow joggers who know what similar hells their legs suffer. In any case, better than zilch.

Conclusion: Level of "hotness" has improved tremendously over the last few months. Both vanity and ego are appeased. For now.

2008-04-01T23:13:00.002+08:00

123 Meme

Man, it's been an eternity since I've done a meme. And yikes, it took me more than a month to realise I was tagged by Delta Green! Many apologies, my man!

Anyway, here goes the meme:

1. Pick up the nearest book (of at least 123 pages).
2. Open the book to page 123.
3. Find the fifth sentence.
4. Post the next three sentences.
5. Tag five people

Hmmm, lemme pick a book at random from my shelf...

'And you see, the rat who brought us the Marquis' message -'

'Master Longtail,' she said.

'Well, he told them they had to get me here.'

Wow, those sentences sound ominous enough, without the book's context.

And the five lucky people I tag are:

1. wrkshy
2. Jeff
3. la bibliothecaire
4. Atom Zepnick
5. Javajive

2008-04-01T23:06:00.000+08:00

Versus
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Room for one

I have this idiosyncrasy whenever I ride the escalator. An unconscious mental exercise I always conduct, no matter how many times I tell myself how foolish it is.

You see, I judge my love life according to who is standing beside me on the escalator.

"Will he be tall? Will he be handsome? Will he be smelly? Will it even be a he?"

Yes, yes, yes, I know it's extremely silly of me but there's something about people queuing up in pairs and standing next to each other, which gets me in a very orange-blossomy mood. Strange how the brain works, really.

In any case, the sad fact remains that lately, the escalator space beside me has been rather vacant. I'd hate for it that my reality would reflect my fantasy, however ridiculous it may seem.

Right-o, time to start taking the elevators.

2008-03-26T11:35:00.003+08:00

Facade
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

March Madness

Is it me or is the month of March usually such a riot of madness? Hair pulling, groaning and sighing have been common sights for me, and I don't mean in my bedroom too, which would have been a welcome scene. Unfortunately, I have been buried under a mountain-load of work, which just keeps erupting and there doesn't seem to be any end to its fury.

However, this doesn't entirely mean I'm unhappy. I guess I've finally reached the point where I'm content enough with what I've achieved and I'm satisfied with where I'm going, even if I did give up some dreams along the way. Sometimes, it's better to have grown up and accept and make what you have out of your situation, rather than keep on dreaming and procrastinating, fearing to even take that first scary step.

While my steps can be seen as a somewhat diversion, I hope that my final destination will still be the same - happiness, fullfilment, satisfaction...and all that jazz. Well, let's hope so.

This guy gives me the chills. Seriously. I think he's a pure genius with the keyboard and reminds me just how and what music should be all about.

Be prepared to bob your head, tap your feet and, eventually, go crazy dancing in your room. I did. Well, just the first two.

Oh, and do check out his website. I love that he takes such joy, pride and glee in his work.

2008-02-12T23:56:00.000+08:00

Shady
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Lost Spark

I love photography. No denying that fact.

But, lately, it seems as if I've lost the spark, the curiosity to snap pictures of everything around me. And, sometimes I miss it - that quickening of senses when you spot a colour or scenario worth capturing and the anticipation of seeing the shot appear on screen.

I've even stopped carrying my camera around me. Granted, my trusty digicam broke down. And my not repairing it says a thousand words, I think. Am I holding off repairing it coz I keep telling myself I'll get that long-lusted-after digital SLR? Or is because it just feels wrong to pick up my familiar friend after documenting scenes from my father's funeral?

Right now, I'm still searching for the answers and the way back still looks murky to me.

A change of scene may do me good, I hope. New faces, new places. But, until I go on my next holiday, I shall try and muddle my way through this rut.

2008-01-29T23:53:00.000+08:00

Appreciation
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Assimilated

Sometimes, I wonder if I would be happier working in a smaller, no frills company. Being a minor minion, minding my own business. But, there is the personal touch in the working relationship between my current boss and I, which I quite enjoy and am quite thankful for.

All things considered, I truly think that I excel and relish what I achieve at my workplace. I may not have the relevant professional standing required, but I damn sure have the passion for it.

And yet, sometimes, I yearn to do something different, out of the ordinary. I shall learn to curb this impetus of mine somewhat and focus on the 'now'.

Yes, I shall close the window overlooking at greener pastures. For now...

2008-01-14T22:35:00.001+08:00

Forget the Kama Sutra

Don't have the ancient handy guidebook to positions which will bring you pleasure to kingdom come (pun intended)?

Why not try this convenient visual index?

Warning: Definitely NSFW. Unless you work in a porn establishment. Then, you're welcome for this research tip. :)

Guaranteed to make your nights more lovely, I'm sure. This tip is provided, courtesy of Badman. He always knows where to suss out the good stuff.

P.S. My first post for 2008 and it's about sex. Hmmm, let's cross our fingers that this is a good omen for my nocturnal lifestyle.

2007-12-24T11:31:00.000+08:00

Sign(s) of Ageing

Back in school, I had a friend who took multi-vitamins everyday. And I thought that was a bit strange, seeing as we were healthy teenagers, all hearty and hale, albeit with the occasional exam stress. We didn't need these man-made nutrients; we could get our needed vitamins from Mother Nature herself. In any case, I didn't reveal my thoughts to my friend then.

But, lately, I've been re-considering the wisdom of her decision for such early action. Because I'm seriously becoming one senile old woman.

Case #1: Forgetting a winter coat for a vacation in a cold country. I remembered my skin care essentials, my handphone charger, my sweaters, etc. Even my umbrella, for gawd's sake, which was not even used. But, the most important item on the list of to-brings completely slipped out of my mind.

Case #2: Forgetting to bring my luggage out of the hotel room for checking out. Now, seriously, this incident scared the fuck out of me. I mean, what the fuck man? Guess I was too sleep-deprived as well that morning.

Case #3: Misreading various signs in my own langauge. To me, this was quite unforgivable. But, since it created much laughter with my travel mates, I was lenient with myself. Examples included: "We love having you here" was interpreted as "We love hating you here" and "Let's Be" (a weird drinking brand) was read as "Let's Pee". Hilarious, no?

Case #4: Leaving various items behind in fridges, lockers and hotel front desks. My travel mate's watch left in a locker. Chocolates and fruits left in the hotel room's mini-bar. Gloves left at the hotel counters, which would have earned me a lost penalty. I can be such a fucking dolt at times.

Case #5: People stuffing their used gloves into my bag without my notice. This really takes. the. fucking. cake. When I got home, I found a pair of white children's gloves, obviously worn a few times, with some pencil scribblings on the inside, which was probably the owner's name. At first, I thought it was the lining of my own gloves. But then, the size was much too small to fit my gloves. And I threw them away without any second thought. On hindsight, that discovery was freaky, funny and stunning all in one go. I really should have taken a picture of those gloves.

Case #6: Insensitive earlobes. I was really pissed at myself for this one coz I lost one side of my favourite earrings I got from NYC. One moment, they were dangling from my earlobes. And the next I knew, my right earlobe was bare. My heart literally broke into two then. I'd like to blame it on the cold weather for my numbed earlobes, but really, who knows? Maybe some phantom thief stole it from my earlobe without me noticing. Again. In any case, I emailed the lady I bought the earrings from and hopefully, she'll custom make them again. Fingers and earlobes crossed.

After all these scares, I made a decision to start taking multivitamins to boost my health. Hopefully, if they turn out well, I'll graduate to memory pills.

Let's take things slow, shall we? We are, after all, dealing with an ageing woman here. Sigh.

2007-12-06T12:31:00.000+08:00

Doing It With Style
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Falling

Yesterday, I met up with a couple of friends so that we could be tourists for a day. The plan was to roam around Little India and Arab Street and see what goodies we could get.

But, who knew the extent of Mother Nature's wrath? Raining cats and dogs, our outing wasn't exactly without bumps.

While it was annoying in the beginning, I was sorta glad for the rain. Not just coz I am a rain-lover, but because we would never have discovered the joys of a $7.90 vegetarian buffet or splashing around in puddles, muddy as they can be. And surely nothing beats the first whoosh of rain water as one vehicle after another passes you by at the traffic light. Fantastic experience, I would say. If only I had a chic and durable raincoat yesterday, it would have been perfect.

To top it off, I fell down a staircase at a location I shall not name. But, of course, I fell down with grace. And laughing all the way down, to boot. Well, it was either that or cry. So, I chose to laugh and fall with style. It was painful and exhilarating at the same time. And while my rear end still aches at times, I always chuckle now when I think back on the incident. It was such a what-the-fuck moment.

And, my lovely day off ended with warm porridge, funny conversations and a last-minute late night movie, who certainly warms my heart at this stage in my life. *grins*

I love doing spur-of-the-moment things.

2007-11-25T00:54:00.000+08:00

The Last Thing...

...you would want to see is your bosses dancing and rapping in monotones.

I applaud their bravery and ingenuity in doing a music video, rap no less!

But, sometimes, breaking the mould does not make the vase any prettier, if you know what I mean.

2007-11-21T11:20:00.000+08:00

Whisper It To Me
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Finger Rage

There's been plenty talk about foreigners not giving the proper respect to our senior citizens in Singapore. And, even about foreigners physically abusing our fairer sex.

The two incidents were widely publicised on the Internet and who knows, there might have been some background information that led to those unfortunate events. I'm only a outside bystander, preferring to withhold all judgment.

However, I recently had a personal experience about how indeed Singapore expats are treating our people with little respect. And it was a really short incident, to boot.

When crossing a busy road, it's inevitable that cars will occupy some space in the pedestrian crossing. Being a Saturday, all modes of transportation were obviously out on the roads in full force.

And when a poor taxi was stuck on said pedestrian crossing, what should I see but a middle finger raised, right in front of the taxi's side window! A Caucasian middle finger, I should add.

Evidently, this man wasn't raised to keep his opinions to himself at the appropriate times. Why let such a tiny and insignificant thing raise your heckles? Isn't it easy to just breathe and let the rage flow out of your system?

Men...they just don't get it.

2007-11-16T00:46:00.000+08:00

Collective Memory

Dive into your images, and a whole network of similar ones, with this new software, Photosynth.

Really jaw-dropping technology us humans can come up with.

And hmmm, the developer's easy on the eyes too.

2007-11-12T00:12:00.000+08:00

Come Sit With Me
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Lusty Librarians

I was chilling with a couple of colleagues and we were playing around with alliterations. And this one stuck out in my mind, because I'd like to think it can be applied to me, both in my personal and professional life.

A lust for life, excitement, love and knowledge, accompanied by a voracious appetite for carnal pleasures and all things (somewhat) hedonistic.

Hmmm, sure sounds yummy to me.

2007-10-31T00:10:00.000+08:00

It's Not You, It's Me
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Offline

The lack of activity on this blog is a clear sign that I've been taking the time to live my offline life. And it's been pretty good so far.

Lots more time spent with family and friends, rather than catching up on the latest online news and gossip.

Photography has also sorta taken a backseat, as a result. But, my fingers are itching to press the shutter once again.

So, I'm eager to once again put down my thoughts and images in the virtual world.

It's good to be back.

2007-08-28T00:08:00.000+08:00

Delight
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Floating

After what's happened, I feel like I'm slowly coming up for air finally. Only to have the realities of work come crashing down on me.

I appear to have lost much of my ability to write and express, so don't mind the bareness in this blog.

Meantime, here's a bloom to brighten up your day.

2007-08-12T18:14:00.001+08:00

Goodbye, Ba
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

My dad recently passed away a couple of weeks ago. It was a sudden passing; a massive heart attack while he was in the hospital.

While the shock has gradually faded, the sorrow and regret still linger. Sorrow about not being a better daughter to him; regret about not spending enough quality time with him.

There were times when I felt I wasn't good enough for him to be proud of; and there were times when I felt ashamed to be even around him. But, no matter what, I knew deep in my heart, I treasured and loved my father.

I kept putting off talking about my dad's death online because it somehow imprints a finality to it. Sounds silly but I can't help the way I feel, or the tears rolling down my face as I write this.

And I thought I had pretty much cried out all my tears. So much for that.

I'm guessing the hurt never does stop being lodged in my heart. And so, with this photo, I hope that this happy memory will at least remind me that my dad did live a fulfilling life, by most standards.

2007-07-31T02:45:00.000+08:00

Mistaken Identity

Munching happily at dinner.

"Pass me the chicken, please."

Stunned looks and an awkward silence.

"It's pork. And you don't eat pork."

"Don't be silly. It's clearly chicken."

More sniggers.

"Errm, they will never serve sweet and sour chicken in Hong Kong. It's a mortal sin to do so."

"Oh."

Blushes and embarassment ensue.

Edit: I did not participate in the above dialogue. It was merely recounted to me after the fact.

2007-07-04T00:53:00.000+08:00

Big Brother
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Strange Encounter

An unsettling feeling that you're being watched. The prickling at the back of your neck. Gentle whispers linger in the air.

All are clear indications that you're about to meet with an encounter of the strangest kind, usually when in transit.

And mine was no different. But, it came with a slight twist. No, there was no flashing of private parts. Too unoriginal. And no scoping being done by binoculars. Too stereotypical.

I suffered the evil eye and heated mutterings (with obscenities of the f--- kind, no less) of my fellow passenger simply by...playing Sudoku on my handphone.

I can't confirm it but I'm pretty sure he gave me the death stare even after I alighted from the train.

Apparently, it's a strange world we live in.

2007-06-21T00:01:00.000+08:00

It's On
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Fly Me To New York

Damn, New York's cheaper to live in than in Singapore?!?!

For real now, someone had better get me a airline ticket to New York soon.

That, and a digital slr would make perfect gifts for me right now.

2007-06-10T01:41:00.000+08:00

Entering The Time Warp
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Warp Speed, Mr Spock

Frenetic energy dominates most of my life now. "On the go" and "on the fly" are the most appropriate phrases to describe my daily routine.

While I'm not exactly in the rat race, some days, it sure feels like it.

I can only wish July would arrive faster and that I can sooner see the shores of Hong Kong. It would be a good break for me; good food, good company and new faces.

Counting the minutes till then...

2007-06-03T18:14:00.000+08:00

Give Up
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Sometimes

Sometimes, I wish Life came with a How-To manual.

Sometimes, I wish I could be happy without friends.

Sometimes, I wish that all hang-ups and misconceptions perpetuated by Society can be banished.

Sometimes, I wish that the concept of money wasn't created.

Sometimes, I wish I wasn't so afraid of never finding a Soul Mate/The One.

Sometimes, I wish the world wasn't so huge.

Sometimes, I wish I could give up on everything and escape from reality.

Sometimes, I wish I could stop wishing.

2007-05-23T14:40:00.000+08:00

Solitude Is All We Really Need
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Break Down

It's nature for matter to break down organically and repair is usually impossible. And so it is, with most human relationships.

What began as a explosion of chemistry among ten individuals has now, I'm afraid, settled into a sad blob of confusion, frustration and disillusionment. What were new and refreshing gatherings with like-minded people before have now become awkard and mind-numbingly boring obligations.

There's no way to go back into the past and those wonderful times. And while it would be lovely to visit the good times past, I'm not sure I would, given the miserable situation at present.

2007-05-14T08:41:00.000+08:00

Leadership

What Famous Leader Are You?
personality tests by similarminds.com

Hmmmm, guess it's time to start making plans to move to Cuba eh? Cuban cigars and smoking pot, anyone?

Most certainly, I would love for Gael Garcia to move there with me. Yum-my.

2007-05-01T18:25:00.001+08:00

Contemplate
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Torn

It's been some time since I've written anything here. I guess it's coz I'm trying to figure out what I wanna do with the rest of my life, or even the next 5 years of my life. And it's really a big puzzle, feeling your way through acquired passions and practical occupations. I know I probably have harped on this subject quite a bit on this blog and yet, I have not come up with any clear answers.

Sometimes, I hate myself for tying all the unneccessary baggage, both emotionally and financially. If only there were a magic wand to make them all disappear into thin air...

How does one let go of all fears and relentlessly pursue whatever dreams they may have? There's been countless times when I mentally prepared myself for the break but when it comes down to the crunch, my finger still lingers on the Big Button.

Who or what will lend me the courage to push beyond the edge? I can only hope the time will come soon.

2007-04-17T22:27:00.000+08:00

Self-esteem

Amidst all the turmoil at work and home, it was nice to let out some steam on the dancefloor a couple of weeks ago. The beats, the music, the beautiful people...it was a good formula for a fantastic time out.

And I've completely forgotten the feeling of getting picked up by guys at the bar. Or rather, talking to new people who just might turn out to be your next partner or lover. Even if you had to shout out the same question four times, minimum. This mating dance is strange, exhilarating and most definitely, ego-boosting.

Of course, whether the term of the resultant relationships would last is highly debatable. But hey, we all gotta get our fun somewhere.

2007-04-10T00:54:00.001+08:00

Struggle Against Adversity
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Struggles

So far, 2007 has truly been a year of ups and downs for me.

On the family front, we've been dealt a blow with my dad's diagnosis of myelodysplastic syndrome, a pre-cursor to leukemia. Needless to say, we're all pretty shattered by this news. We're slowly getting used to the reality of my dad being tired often and need for less stress. But, it still doesn't take away the worry that this is a terminal condition. Efforts were made by my sister and I on researching clinical trials. But, it's either a case of ineligibility for the local ones or simply a matter of high cost for the overseas ones, specifically New York.

In any case, we're taking it one day at a time and getting by as we go along.

On the job front, I find myself censoring what I really want to blog about. Mainly because I am a civil servant afterall. And it's just frustrating really, when I have all these views that I want to spew, and I can't do that anymore on this platform. I guess the direction of this blog has gotta change soon (hah, after what, 6, 7 years, and I change direction...such a slowpoke)

Anyway, in summary, bigger responsibilities have been heaped upon me and since I've always been a "fly-under-the-radar" kinda gal, these changes have been daunting, to say the least.

The first quarter of the year has flown by so quickly and I'm not even sure I was even there to begin with.

2007-03-17T19:55:00.000+08:00

Brazilian Dreams In Switzerland
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Brazilian Dreams In Switzerland

It seems that a few of my images have been used in the 'flash-on-the-wall' exhibition for "We Are All Photographers Now!" in Musée de l'Elysée, Lausanne, Switzerland. Well, make that ten or so images.

It's pretty exciting stuff to see your prints being part of something special like this. This same print was also used for the recent "Singapore PLUS65" event held at Home Club, along with some other shots of Singapore.

Time to start shooting again...

2007-03-12T23:58:00.000+08:00

Irony

Apparently, I have the golden touch...

But, in the real-world news, I'm such a loser when it comes to affairs of the heart. How could things have unravelled so quickly?

Then again, it has been a week where I'm blindsided from all avenues - work, family, love life.

When can I ever catch a break?

2007-03-02T22:34:00.000+08:00

Dick In The Box

I think I know what I want for this Christmas already - your dick in a box!

Brought to you by the geniuses from The Lonely Island, Andy Samburg and Justin Timberlake are just darling in this '80s music video spoof. The sunglasses, the goatees, the Miami Vice get-up. Hilarious stuff indeed.

Fun fact of the day: Andy Samburg is one half of the duo who did one of my favourite skits, "The Chronic Of Narnia".

"Christmas. Dick In The Box. Hanukkah. Dick In The Box. Kwanzaa. Dick In The Box."

Damn, I wouldn't mind paying good money to have attended Timberlake's concert at Madison Square Garden, just to hear this spoof!

2007-03-01T22:37:00.001+08:00

Hole In My Pocket

Dammit, I hate losing money. And it's even worse when you don't know the exact reason why. My stocks (gawd, I sounded so yuppie for a moment there!) fell by a lot and my poor heart had quite a scare. And the only inkling of a reason I know for this happening was something to do with China.

Thank God for Gawker's interpretation of the market plunge. Snarky, informative and easily digestible. Just right up my alley.

My favourite quote: "Historically, the U.S. coughs and the rest of the world catches cold; yesterday, China hiccupped, and everyone had a heart palpitation."

Why can't all financial reports be as friendly as Gawker's?

2007-02-27T01:12:00.000+08:00

Someone out there obviously failed their Geography...

...because there is no way "Infernal Affairs" came from Japan.

It was made in Hong Kong, you ignorant Oscar writer. Where was your editor, your fact-checker?! What a major boo-boo.

Well, at least Martin Scorsese got it right...

2007-02-25T18:02:00.001+08:00

Funeral Blues
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Seduction By Words

I do believe that I can be seduced, purely by words alone.

Recite me a poem and I'm all-aquiver. Write a sonnet, with me as a muse, and my heart is all yours. Declare your undying love (subtly, of course) in a song and I promise you, I will be putty in your hands.

Why, oh why is it so difficult to meet people who will inspire poetry in your life? Is this how real life really works - all grind and no colour?

And with one reading of Kahlil Gibran's Love Letters, I'm reduced to being such a girl, a mass of insecurities and caged love, afraid that no one will appreciate me for who I am.

2007-02-20T22:50:00.000+08:00

Discontent

I heard somewhere once that writers do what they do because they're full of angst and discontent. Well, actually, I heard it at a meet-an-author session, straight from the horse's mouth, so to speak. That doesn't excuse the lack the activity here but still, I find myself more occupied with the visual side of things, especially with my photography hobby.

Of course, I could go on a big spiel about how I'm severely underpaid and unreasonable superiors, but I still like my position, blah, blah, blah. Exactly like only tens of millions of blogs out there...and that would only put you, my readers, to sleep.

So, maybe it's time to add a little drama and dissatisfaction into the mix that is my life, seeing the state of this blog?

2007-01-31T00:18:00.000+08:00

Anew

You know, sometimes I wish I could start things anew with this blog. Scrap everything and get a fresh perspective.

Fingers are poised on the 'Delete' button.

To press or not to press?

2007-01-17T23:50:00.000+08:00

Hand me the Kleenex, will ya?

My current read is "Flags of Our Fathers" by John Bradley with Ron Powers, as I was inspired to pick it up by the movie. Only a few pages into the introduction, and the water works began. Sometimes, I'm such a wuss.

When I came across the photos of the flag raisers, I felt struck by a wave of shame. Instead of feeling the highest of admiration for these men, I was only concerned with my sudden lust and how cute Mike Strank was.

Can someone just strike me dead with thunder, please?

And damn, why does he look less hot in other photos?

Ok, I'd better stop this post before I start creeping myself out with lusting after old men. Really old men.

2007-01-16T22:55:00.000+08:00

Got a milkshake for that?

Being a member of the female species, it's the norm to be obsessed with calories and fat content of food. Constantly calculating whether eating a cucumber today could make up for pouring down the sushi buffet down your throat yesterday, it's become the way of life for us girls.

But, I have now found an alternative method to keeping those 3am snack cravings at bay, guaranteed to make you think twice about reaching out for the nearest can of Pringles. All you have to do is watch the movie "Fast Food Nation".

Not only does the film feature barf-worthy scenes of cow slaughter enough to convert you to vegetarianism, it presents to you the possible - ah hell, it's fact so let's call a spade a spade - reality that there's shit in the meat. Specifically, the one in the burgers you're eating right now at fast food joints.

Based on the book of the same title, this movie brought back the same chills I had after reading said book. Truthfully, I have backed off any fast food chain whenever possible and not only do I save some money in the process, but I feel healthier as well.

In addition, it doesn't help that my colleague has a personal anedote on his working experience as a chef at Kentucky Fried Chicken. Let's just say I'm looking at their wings in a totally different sort of spi...I mean, light.

P.S. 10 pieces of Cadbury Almond Chocolate is worth 800g of fat. How potent is that shit!?!

2007-01-07T22:13:00.000+08:00

The Remainders

Alright, it's taken me long enough to finish posting my Taiwan photos on this blog. Sometimes, I really wanna smack myself for my sheer laziness. Ah well.

While not gawking at the various postal boxes in Taiwan, the following shots most assuredly grabbed my attention. From a plain street shot of a tree on a pavement to the weird stabiliser-thingy at Taiwan 101, my camera definitely flexed most of its 'muscles' during this trip.

Not that I've been picking up my camera for photo shoots back here lately. Sigh, I need some inspiration desperately.

Hive
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Beckoning
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Just What Everyone Needs
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Fishy Fishy Fishy
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Desolation
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

2007-01-03T00:25:00.000+08:00

A New Year Blooms

And how was everyone's New Year celebration? Filled with cheer, laughter and much glee?

While I did not ring in the new year as I had hoped, with booze and music galore, I still hold on to the belief that it will bring me new challenges and opportunities. Meet new people, be more of a social butterfly, and just have a fun time - that's what I think 2007 will hold for me. I won't say no to a party, that's for sure.

Cheers to the blooming of a new year. And, enjoy the flower blooms below that I shot from my trip to Taiwan.

Summer Sweetness
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Rejoice
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Everything's So Focused Now
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Recapturing My Youth
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Beautiful Memories
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

2006-12-29T23:04:00.000+08:00

Going Postal

What with all the Christmas celebrations, cookies, candies and various sugar-laden consumables, it's been pretty tough to sit still in one spot and do some proper blogging. That is, if you can call posting travel photos with a smattering of commentary "proper blogging".

But, onward with my backlog of Taiwan photos...

I do believe that my short jaunt to the land of bubble-tea and pro-violence politicians has sparked off a new obsession with postal boxes. Be it empty or jammed full of flyers, I pretty much go ape-shit, scramble to get my camera out and calm down only when I hear "click".

I think I might need to find a Postal-Boxoholic Anonymous soon.

Pretty Post Box
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Do You Ever Get The Feeling You're Being Watched?
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

2006-12-20T00:29:00.000+08:00

Signage Frenzy

Call me a freak but I get all tingly inside when I see signages around. Funny signages, colourful signages, just as long as my eye is caught, I'm getting those beautiful things onto my camera. And oh, how delightful they can be.

Delicious
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

What The Heart Desires
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

0800h
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Reading Is Good
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Another Day's Work For The Darlie Man
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Bootlegs
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Song Jiang Road
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

2006-12-13T23:51:00.000+08:00

It Never Hurts To Be Behind

Sure, you may get stuck with an ugly rear view but when beauty strikes, you'll have to know how to whip it out, and whip it out real fast and good. And besides, the sceneries from behind convey a much more mysterious tale, don't they?

Choices
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Tunnels
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Follow
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

It's All Relative
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Off Limits
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

2006-12-10T21:52:00.000+08:00

All Roads Lead To...

...great photo opportunities, it seems. The clean lines, blinding beauty of linears combined with chaotic backgrounds only serve up a delicious platter of urban landscapes.

As I flip through these shots, I keep telling myself "Be still, my heart."

I hope they made you think the same way too.

Gossip
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

No Parking
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Forever Name
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Stripes
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

2006-12-03T17:40:00.000+08:00

Warning: Narcissism Ahead

During periods of boredom in Taiwan, there was nothing as addictive as taking photos of yourself. And believe me, there were moments that reached the almost suicidal level. And hey, what do you know? I actually got a few interesting shots out of that exercise. Here are just a couple of examples.

Warning: Narcissism Ahead
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Bubble Too
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

2006-11-29T23:42:00.000+08:00

I adore the quotes at Overheard In New York. And this is a shining example why.

Essence Of NYC: A Play in One Act

Bimbo tourist #1: Anyway, so when he pulled it out of me it made this farting noise, and I know it wasn't a fart because it didn't smell, and... It was just really embarrassing.
Bimbo tourist #2: Quip.
Bimbo tourist #1: What?
Bimbo tourist #2: A quip. The farting noise, it's called a 'quip.'
Bimbo tourist #1: Oh, they have a name for it? Wow.
Bimbo tourist #2: Oh, totally. It happens to a lot of people.
Stranger: Um, that's not right.
Bimbo tourist #2: Excuse me, sir?
Stranger: No, it's 'queef.'
Bimbo tourist #2: Wait, what?
Bimbo tourist #1: I think he's saying his name is 'Queef' or something.
Bimbo tourist #2: Oh, sorry. Excuse me, Queef?
Stranger: No... Oh, lord. The sound, it's 'queef.'
Bimbo tourist #2: Who's a 'queef?' What's going on?
Bimbo tourist #1: I think he's one of those crazy subway guys you hear about. I think he's telling us he's gay.
Stranger: I can hear you, and I'm not... What? That's 'queer,' you ingrate!
Bimbo tourist #1: Here's some money for you, sir. Buy your boyfriend a nice grocery cart or something.
Stranger: What?! Does it look like I'm homeless to you? I'm wearing fucking YSL over here... I ain't queer and I ain't homeless. You ignorant, you skinny, Paris Hilton-wannabe whores. All I was saying to you was that when your sleazy-ass friend over here pulled her boyfriend's dick out of her STD-ridden pussy, the word...
Bimbo tourist #1: I'm not following... Is he speaking Cockney or something?
Bimbo tourist #2: I don't know. Are you allowed to mace crazy hobos?
Stranger: ...I'm not fucking crazy!
Bimbo tourist #2: Of course you aren't, sir.
Passenger: Oh, shut your mouth, both of ya, or I'm gonna whoop both your scrawny asses, you hear?
Stranger: Thank you. All I was saying was...
Old lady: Ah, hell no! Can't you see this conversation has gone past anyone in this damn subway's comprehension? Know when to drop it, brother. Know when to drop it.
Bimbo tourist #2: [Mouthing] Oh my god.
Bimbo tourist #1: I know. That was intense.
Stranger, muttering to himself: ... Last time I ever take a subway... Unbelievable shit I put up with... Fucking Civics... Unreliable fuckers...

--L train

2006-11-28T22:53:00.000+08:00

Another Year Older, Another Year Clueless

Sometimes, I wonder how the hell did I arrive here. What turns and twists my life has taken, I no longer recognize. Decisions that seem minor in the past have become significant upon hindsight. Dreams have shattered and their shards re-built into current reality. Who would have thought that they’d be wherever they are now, in ten years’ time? I certainly didn’t.

In this time of reflection, all of the doubts and regrets start surfacing and bubbling up again. Did I grab life by the balls? Have I contributed my part to society? What the fuck purpose is my life and its work? And when the fuck does loneliness end and happiness begin? A girl can only think so many thoughts without going bonkers out of her mind.

And a girl, I most assuredly am. I’m not positive that I can be termed a woman as yet, what with my long road towards mature womanhood. I mean, I still live with my parents, for gawd’s sake. And I’m ashamed to admit my comfort in tying myself to the parental strings.

I need a change, a radical change to shake my stability and encourage my inner growth. It’s sink or swim, baby. Sink or swim.

Happy Birthday To Me.

2006-11-25T13:41:00.000+08:00

Three Things

Never again would I want to work in event management. My major project has ended over about a week ago and I am still recovering from the effects of the trauma. I was even sobbing from all of the exhaustion over the phone to my project manager and that was embarrassing enough. The intensity and the stress of managing a minor component of events has left me completely drained.

And with the flu bug, dammit.

With my birthday in a few days, this is not good news. Not good at all.

*****************************************************************************

I am totally in love with Yann Tiersen's Les Retrouvailles. He had me hooked from Amelie's soundtrack and now, he has me completely charmed and entranced with his latest CD.

I am not exaggerating when I say I can listen to his music 24-7. His disc has been spinning in my CD player for about a month and I'm still not sick of it.

Step into the world of France with his refreshing music scores.

******************************************************************************

My computer has been with me for over two years and it has alternately given me frustration and joy. Alas, its memory has been failing and so, it is with great glee that I started my computer shopping. I was tired of getting the same old computers and needed a change. A clean slate, so to speak. What had been only a desire for tidy, white equipment before has now become a reality for me.

I have switched over to the Mac side. And it has been a lovely and painless transition for me. Less than ten minutes to set up everything and immediately hooked up to the Internet? An absolute dream to behold is my iMac desktop.

Sigh, how many times can a girl fall in love?

2006-10-25T01:05:00.000+08:00

A Prelude...

Off Off
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

...to the craziness of Taiwan's signs and signages.

"Oh, it's On On, baby, just like butter!"

2006-10-01T20:26:00.000+08:00

Drugs! Drugs! Give me my drugs!

Yesterday, I had the most terrifying experience of my life. It has probably scarred me for life, making me extra cautious about taking any kind of meds from now on. And I'm almost horrified that such a thing could happen to me.

Nothing prepares you for that mind numbing fear of having absolutely no control over what's happening and boy, was I crying out for my mummy the whole time. It all started innocently with my medicine for my stomach flu. Albeit, I was careless on my part in continuing taking my medicine even if I did not have the symptoms of vomiting, which was the precise purpose of the medicine. But, I was still feeling out of sorts and had thought the medicine would help.

What a deadly decision that would prove to be. Even now, I'm still quaking from the after effects, almost 24 hours after my attacks started. I had been gradually losing control over my neck, facial and mouth muscles but the severe attacks didn't really begin until I started my storytelling programme.

At first, I thought it was the stomach flu bug and anxiety and tried some yoga deep-breathing exercises. While it didn't help much, it did calm my stomach some. But you can't imagine the nerves that I suffered during the programme – my jaw beginning to get locked, my neck swerving to one side, my words sounding almost like I'm Adam Sandler from “Waterboy”. It was almost stroke-like.

Terrified beyond my wits, I got my colleague to take over from me and called my parents immediately to send me to the hospital. The wait for their arrival was interminable and I suffered many similar attacks during that eternal interval. Oh, how my jaw would snap shut so that my teeth were gnashing against each other and my neck lolling around, up and down, like some sort of helpless babe. And I can't forget the expressions of those clueless kids, who just wanted to have an enjoyable afternoon listening to my stories.

Thoughts were racing throughout my head, like Ohmygod, am I really having a stroke? Am I going to die? Do I have some sort of viral infection gone wrong? Thank goodness I have insurance. Seriously, at that time, I was grateful my insurance agent talked me into getting whatever policies I have now. Meanwhile, I was desperately trying to relax my muscles, no matter how tense they seem to seize up on their own. Little did I know that exercise would prove to be futile.

When I saw my mother, I virtually broke down and cried. Shock, horror, fear, you name it, I had that emotion. It was only in the car, when I calmed down some, that the attacks stopped for a bit. But, that reprieve would be only too short, as the attacks came coming like relentless waves. Tears were already rolling down my cheek, especially from the pain of my upper and lower jaw being pulled into opposite horizontal directions. The neck lolling, I can handle with some calm...but the sensation of my jaw being ripped in different directions caused so much pain, I cannot even possibly begin to explain.

Long story short, I was whining like a big baby at the emergency room. And when the doctor explained my predicament, I swore ripely at myself. No more self-medication ever again, I thought to myself. The doctor was very polite and helpful about it too but there were times I wanted to scream at her: "Drugs! Drugs! Just give me my goddamn fucking drugs!" And while the rational part of my brain knew she had to first examine my heartbeat, my reflexes, my breathing, etc to conclusively prescribe the drug, the insane part of my brain was hollering at her to bloody inject whatever drug to make the pain go away.

And it was a blessed thing, my antidote. Within seconds, I could feel the poisonous drug evaporate through my mouth and bliss was the state of my mind. You could even say I was high, to the extent that I declared to my doctor: "You make me wanna become a doctor!" a la "As Good As It Gets". Truthfully, I would not like to meet me as a person when I'm high on medication.

One thing did worry me about my doctor – when I revealed what drug I took from the start, her utterly disturbing response was: “Oh, that's my favourite drug! I even inject myself with it sometimes!” My alarm bell instantly went off but I decided, hey, even doctors are frail humans, and let that statement go. Then, it was off to boring observation ward for me.

On hindsight, I think it's pretty hilarious that my first trip to the emergency would be something like this unglamorous. I fucked up even on my choice of drug overdose, a drug that prevents vomiting. And while my “idiosyncratic” reaction, as termed by my doctor, to that drug was scary enough, I had thought my virgin emergency visit would be something with, shall I say, more perceived urgency? Like a broken arm or leg? Not that I'm wishing said misfortune will befall me. But I had hoped to enter the hospital gates with a grander injury than a overdose of self-medication.

Ohhh, so that's why I’ve been having double vision as well.

2006-09-30T13:56:00.000+08:00

Bitten by the bug

By the stomach flu bug, to be precise.

Hence, the non-existent action on this blog. Apologies from my weak constitution.

Aspirations to write eloquently about loneliness and our purpose in this world (eeekk...as if we need more of those) have since disappeared, with the attack of the bug.

Shall write more when bug has been totally annihilated.

2006-08-23T01:20:00.000+08:00

Abandoned Building Project

Over the weekend, a few of my flickr friends and I visited an abandoned mansion called Istana Woodneuk, near the Botanic Gardens. Apparently, it was built for the Sultan of Johore or some sort of high-ranking officer from Malaysia and had been deserted ever since the building was caught on fire.

Exercising great caution with our every step, I have to admit, we got pretty great shots of that location. For a moment there or two, I had feared that the ground would simply give way and then, it's bye bye forever. And the fucking insane thing was, my first thought when that scenario came to mind was "Fuck, I gotta keep my camera in the bag first."

I think I have officially gone camera cuckoo.

Anyway, enjoy the shots I took below.

Hideout
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Monster In Waiting
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Stark
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Leading
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Light Abound
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Cleanse
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

2006-08-12T14:11:00.000+08:00

A slip of ennui...

...and two months fly by just like that.

Yeah, yeah, yeah, I know no one desperately missed me while I was MIA. But, still, it would have been nice knowing that someone out there craves my blog updates. Ah well.

So, let's start with small updates, shall we?

I am seriously itching to get a digital SLR. More specifically, the Canon 350D, or better known by its cooler name, the Digital Rebel. Man, even whispering the name gives me the shivers. Such a spectacular name gives that extra pizzaz, doncha think?

Or should I go all professional and get a Nikon? But I simply can't imagine myself, the ultimate amateur, figuring which button is for what function. I wouldn't be surprised if one day, the camera was sticking out of my ass somehow.

So, people, your opinions in the comments, please, and they would be greatly appreciated and considered.

Work has been swimmingly good, though at times, I do feel like "what-the-fuck-am-I-being-paid-for-Babysitting-children?" and "how-the-hell-do-I-get-posted-overseas-this-industry's-killing-me-with-its-smallness". So, yeah. For once, I am actually quite happy with my job, albeit the cons do drive me to bouts of insanity like overindulging in double chocolate chip cookies in front of the telly.

Yes, I must admit, my life has been pretty exciting.

Well, maybe I'll let my pictures demonstrate what I mean.

Indifference Personified
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

I Am Human
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

This Is My Wall
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Welcome To The Light Fantastic
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Goddamn baby, I am bacccccccck and blogging furiously!

Next blog update: 100 years later. My bad...

2006-06-22T00:55:00.000+08:00

Mobile Porta-Loos

Trust the Japanese to come up with such wacko practical jokes. But, you gotta admit, this is some seriously hilarious shit.

Enjoy!

And don't worry, once I get this tsunami of a workload cleared, blogging will resume to normal. Hopefully.

2006-06-13T01:04:00.000+08:00

Hipsters and Debit Machines

It's been a long time since a vivid dream has haunted me with its surreal plot. I guess I had to expect it since I'm in a position where I'm neither deliriously happy or tragically sad. Stagnation is not a friend of mine; I embrace change like a love, I think.

Imagine a dark and cozy bistro restaurant with a youthful atmosphere. Conversation flows as freely as the martinis and you can always hit a hipster with a stone's throw. The waitressing staff are buzzing around their tables efficiently and their footwork are the envy of every proficient dancer in New York.

Oh, I forgot to let on the location, didn't I? Yes, the Big Apple, the heart of every action. Getting a clearer picture of my subconscious, people? Right, moving along.

Zoom into a particular table and you'll notice a group of moderately fashionable hipsters with their vintage wear and Audrey-Hepburn-like sunglasses. There's the mandatory older, more sophisticated, bespectacled sugar daddy, of course. Strangely, he resembles Andy Warhol with his shock of white mane.

A petite and chubby Asian girl stands out in this posse and she concentrates on staring at the seductive smoke rings floating from her companions' cigarettes dangling from their cynical, twisted lips. She is in part awe, part disgust that she's managed to wriggle her way into this bunch of wanna-bes.

A delicate arm raises and their waiter answers that call with the bill in hand, very much looking forward to his tips. He expects a 20% still after the slip-slop service he had provided. Doomed to be disappointed, he further informs the table that they'll have to personally go to the cashier for debit payments. It is clear that the bitter waiter derived unusual pleasure from delivering that statement.

Asian girl is sent out instead to settle the bill and, what do you know, tempers flare simply because the cashier refused to accept the only debit card Asian girl has. Fueled by rage and a sudden spurt to rebel, Asian girl rips out the debit machine and hurls it back to the cashier. It's a madcap rush to escape from the eating establishment for our hipster table. Andy Warhol actually throws himself out of the glass window, scattering shards everwhere.

Eyes open wide and end dream. Try as I might, I could not get back to continuing the escapade. What a pity - I really would have like to find out what happened in the end.

2006-05-30T00:49:00.000+08:00

The Hunt

Step out from the shower and feel the shiver travel down to your toes. Slick on your lotion and colour your eyes. Enhance those lashes and smudge those ruby red lips. Imagine some hard, masculine body pressed up against yours, one that doesn't repel you, of course, an intimate fit that whispers of future yearning.

Pour yourself through that torture people call the requisite little black dress and shoe-horn your feet into those adorable stilettos you just have to have at half price and, unfortunately, are one size smaller than your usual. Spritz your calling card and let the scented molecules caress your pulses.

One last check - decorated nails, legs that don't horrify with numerous stubble, stylised locks at the tip of the fashion arena. All defenses and attacks on the ready, you saunter out and disappear in the night to hunt your prey.

Or will your unique scent attract another greater in fangs than you? You tremble slightly and fervently hope for the latter.

2006-05-25T01:03:00.000+08:00

Artistic Ambitions

Is it possible to live a life with no rage, no sadness, no passion, just indifference? Physical urges may remain but the emotional needs are either non-existent or unfulfilled. Feeling like an automaton, robotically carrying on with what you're stuck with.

Manifestations of emotions are deceptive and slippery, misleading you to avenues to terrifying that you just block them out completely. The only method of venting out your rage, hopes, dreams, love, longing and passion is through a minute glass eye. It saves you from the mundane and injects renewed enthusiasm into your heart.

Framing, composition, colour, sharpness and that certain "decisive moment" element - isn't that similar to what we all want out of our dull and repetitive lives?

I'm finally taking the plunge out of indifference and fear.

2006-05-09T00:45:00.000+08:00

Just Because I Need Something Pretty...

I give you some snapshots I took over the past months. I am in desperate need of colour for my life and my blog. Sigh.

Focus
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Golden
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Please Don't Stomp On My Heart
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Vanilla/Orange
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Candy Stripes
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Let's Begin
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

2006-05-02T01:15:00.000+08:00

False Information

"So that's Marissa, with a double S?"

"Yes, that's correct."

"And your contact number is...?"

"Oh, right now, I'm in the middle of changing handphone numbers but you can have this one - it's 9034 5646."

"Ok, we're almost done here...just a couple more questions, Miss. How old are you and what's your occupation?"

"Well, I recently turned 22 this March and I work for an international banking company. Working my way up, as you can see..."

"Wow, Miss, you must be some high-flying executive eh? Anyway, have you given any thoughts to financial planning?"

I quickly dart a stunned and quizzical look to my questioner. An embarrassed smile appears on his shiny face.

"I think of it 24-7 at my work desk. What do ya think? Excuse me, I really have to go now. I'm in a rush to meet my clients who do pay me for my time."

Ahhh, if only I get paid the same salary as a banker for what I actually do at my job. And if only I really did masquerade as a Shenton Way yuppie banker who earns 10k a month and sips wine at exclusive restaurants. My fake answers were flowing out of my mouth like a river and it was fairly liberating.

My guts did not fail me until the occupation question turned up. And oh, how they chose to turn brightly yellow then. You cannot imagine the keen disappointment I felt when I couldn't play out the above scenario. Ripe curses were following me the whole way of my remaining journey that day.

2006-04-23T20:09:00.000+08:00

All Geeked Out

I am officially a camera geek. It used to be that I called myself an amateur in photography. But, after meeting other fellow Flickrites from Singapore yesterday, I think I can upgrade myself to the term "photography enthusiast".

Never did I think that swapping advice about getting a Canon vs a Nikon would be so riveting a conversation piece. Or that snapping ten shots in a row of the same subject would not get boring, especially when the said subject was an adorable tyke like Ryan. And never have I been more intimidated by the whipping out of heavy-duty cameras than yesterday. Suffice it to say, I was suffering a lot of camera envy and lens insecurity.

But hallelujah, my photo-snapping hiatus had come to an end too. Thanks to bold-coloured walls in the most unlikely places and getting my passion all fired up with sharing my love for lomography.

You can check out more photos taken yesterday here.

Emanating
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

triple play
Originally uploaded by varf.

2006-04-10T23:18:00.000+08:00

Seek Beauty And You Shall Find It

Beauty In Order
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Begging
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Mute
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Inclined
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

2006-04-04T01:06:00.000+08:00

Let's Talk About Nothing

Over the weekend, I was ordered bed rest by my doctor because I was coming down with the flu. It's the annoying flu season but I thought, what the hey, this would be a good chance to watch the Seinfeld DVDs I borrowed from the library. And boy, did Jerry put a huge smile on my face...with his jokes, I mean.

But, first, let's rewind to the year 1990. Awkward teenage years. Pimples, hair sprouting in places they've never appeared before, the embarrassing BO, shyness with the opposite sex. Just your normal, everyday puberty stages one goes through. Puberty was definitely everything to a young teenager. So, was it any surprise that my initial impression of Seinfeld, a comedy about nothing, was not favourable?

So, don't you give me a punch in the arm, saying "What's the matter with ya? Seinfeld was absolutely genius! The dialogue, the neurotic characters, the twisted plots...It has got everything!" Yeah well, you try telling that to the teenage me from back then and all you'll get is a blank stare and a "Ya paying me money to like it, I'll like it."

Now that I'm in my twenties, ahem, I can acknowledge and relate to the comedic material that Larry David and Jerry Seinfeld brought to the table. And, by god, I adore their droll wit and acute observations. They're truly the comedian's comedians.

The delivery of such memorable quotes like "The door must be closed!", "STELLA!" and "Take the pen!" were absolutely impeccable. And of course, the cast chemistry was sizzling, to say the least.

In a way, I'm glad I'm only watching it now after its peak and all the media hype. It gives me more time to savor each episode and its quintessential "nothing-ness".

2006-03-21T19:30:00.000+08:00

Riot On An Empty Street
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

My Heart's A Flutter

Just a glimpse of this CD liner note and all the warm feelings and wistful swooning come rushing back to me. Never mind the serendipity of a bouncer enquiring into whether I was part of the autograph queue, even when I wasn't looking out for it. And never mind the irritation of being pushed back in the line by some celebrity actress, who probably wasn't even a fan to begin with and mostly likely had been given the concert tickets free.

All that mattered was that I exchanged words with them and got their autographs. Hell, I even got to dance with one of them!

Ok, I'm done acting like a teenage school girl who giggles incessantly.

2006-03-17T01:46:00.000+08:00

One More Time

Oh, if only the past 48 hours of my life could be put on repeat mode...the glorious vocals of Kings of Convenience are still haunting me with their wistful, dreamy tones. I am now drifting upon clouds of bliss, happy in the knowledge that I was a witness to this great band's performance.

Their witty banter and Erlend's quirky dance movements only engaged the audience even more. And I have to admit, this was the first time I felt that Singaporeans can be truly moved by the power of simple and clean lines of music and lush lyrics, as evidenced by fans singing, humming and clapping along with the two absolutely gorgeous band members. Entirely different from what a typical music concert audience would be like, say, five years ago. The crowd was genuinely appreciative of the musical genius in present company.

Yes, I can officially state that I had a "threesome" with Eirik and spleenie.

And, oh, how I danced and jumped the night away during Erlend's DJ set. Admittedly, the set was slow to start but once the momentum got going, I was bouncing around madly like an Energizer bunny. The highlight of that night had to be when the lanky DJ hopped off his podium and went straight to boogie down with thetick.

Imagine a giant, awkward-looking magnet attracting all the pretty and colourful pins of the world and you get the picture. It was an amazing sight to behold, really. And thetick was being so modest about it, brushing off any mention of his mad skillz on the dance floor. Then again, I have to say, I was doubly, no, triply impressed by this guy's fast, furious and frustratingly-difficult-to-imitate-so-you-can-only-stare-goggly-eyed dance style. Good to have met your acquaintance and your distinctly individual flavour, buggboy.

Now, Mr Erlend DJ, play that music one more time...

2006-03-16T23:07:00.000+08:00

Name Calling

From young, I've always been taught to respect my elders. When you go visiting, always call them by their proper titles. Always let them have the bigger chicken wing during meals. Never talk back when they're reprimanding you. Respect is key. Or else, you'll be earning a slap on the head.

So, imagine my shock when one day, I was taunted by a kindegarten kid's words right in front of my face "Fattie bom-bom auntie! Fattie bom-bom auntie!"

My first thought was "You had better call me jie jie, you little bastard!" And immediately following that was "Oh, you are soooo in for it, you skinny, scrawny ass of a kid! You'll be praying for death by the time I'm done with you! Just Bring It On, Bitch!"

Of course, reality intruded in and I was back to the ever-so-courteous librarian again. Smiling behind my grinding teeth, I advised the wormy jerk that it wasn't nice to call other people cruel names.

In my mind, I was sincerely hoping that someday, he'll end up with a weight-challenged wife who will smack behind his head with a pan everytime he so much as utters the word "fat".

And yes, this has only fired my determination to get back to the gym. And let's not even discuss about the four Mrs Fields' cookies I had tonight.

2006-03-12T23:05:00.000+08:00

Sound of Music

La, la, la, la, la, la, la, la, la, la, la.

Tonight, I let my worries melt away with the notes of the samba. As if by magic, all my woes disappeared with the clear lyrical voices of the quartet. Tomorrow will come, but let me prolong this joyous moment.

La, la, la, la, la, la, la, la, la, la, la.

I have forgotten just how much music feeds the soul, drowning our senses in beauty and emotion. I'm glad that I was reminded of that important fact tonight.

La, la, la, la, la, la, la, la, la, la, la.

Be it jazzy tunes, head-banging rhythms, smooth grooves, or soulful chords, music has this awesome power to transform you into that innocent child who fervently believes in his or her dreams again. It drains you of cynicism and replaces it with positivity.

La, la, la, la, la, la, la, la, la, la, la.

I wish for myself and everyone to have this feeling forever. Alas, nothing is immortal. "Happiness is fleeting." Truer words have never been said.

La, la, la, la, la, la, la, la, la, la, la.

* These emotional words were brought to you courtesy of Paquito D'Rivera and the New York Voices, whose members strangely resemble Nigella Lawson, Elizabeth Peña, Chris Evans and William Hurt from afar.

2006-02-26T17:10:00.000+08:00

Best Time To Call A Radio Station

"So, who out there knows what "bellisimo" means, call us right at XXXX-XXXX"

A couple of rings later. The line picks up. Double echoes.

A shy hello. Much disbelief and nervous babbling ensue. Unwittingly, and convincingly, I told a white lie on national radio. Obviously, I didn't think anyone was up early enough to listen to my voice on radio.

A fleeting thought runs through my mind that I am definitely not cut out for public radio announcements, my voice is too squeaky. And before I knew it, I was the owner of one new Mary J. Blige CD.

Sadly enough, this was the highlight of my week. That, and taking the photos below.

Blue Skies
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Dashed Hopes
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

2006-02-14T22:41:00.000+08:00

My Lomo Debut

Even though I managed to expose my film in my lomo camera again when rewinding, I came up with pretty decent pictures for a first timer.

As they say, practice makes perfect.

More to come...

Fantastic Architecture
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Slipper
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Abundance
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Capitol
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

2006-01-31T17:43:00.000+08:00

Healthiest Chinese New Year Ever

It seems a long-standing record has been broken this year. Yes, after a quarter of a century, the unthinkable has happened. I have resisted (most) temptation and stared at greed in its sly face. My determination has finally won the battle of the bulge this year. No more feeling bloated in the mornings or vicious hangovers at the Porcelain God. Just plain ol' common sense, moderation and two hours of tennis that would do everyone good. Go ahead, try it. Of course, there's that achiness in every possible body joint you never thought possible come the next day, but hey, at least you've moved that fat larder ass around for a good one hundred and twenty minutes.

God, I feel like health and excellent wellness personified! Channeling the great James Brown, I feel gooood!

Absolut Spa - where body wellness and alcoholism get along famously like Paris and Nicole.

Update: Stay tuned to read about the fantastic crash-down and glucose/alcohol/CNY goodies cravings of the above author. That's one post you simply cannot miss!

2006-01-17T00:34:00.000+08:00

Snapshots

Work = busy. New Year Resolutions = Broken Promises. Weather = Fucking Crazy and making me ill.

And so, I'm posting these snapshots from various photo trippings and experiments to lend some cheer to my blog. Enjoy.

Strawberry Still Life
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

$2.50 Each
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Two Halves
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Garlands
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Tomatoes
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Pointy
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

2006-01-10T22:44:00.000+08:00

But this time...she's Asian!

I don't know whether this spoof has made me wanna watch or avoid the upcoming "Memoirs of a Geisha" but I do know I can totally watch this clip over and over and over again. Reg and me kept quoting lines from it all day long, it's just so addictive.

"What the...?"

"You are ready."

"I can put fist in my mouth."

"It haarrrddd!"

"I can shoot ping pong balls..."

"50 yen...Firm!"

Hmmm, I wonder what Arthur Golden's reaction to this spoof would be like? Lawsuit, indifference...or shoot ping pong balls with Zhang Ziyi?

2006-01-07T01:37:00.000+08:00

Happiness is...

...winning a limited edition Lomo LCA camera on ebay and you're the only one bidding on it, even if it does mean you're gonna be 500 bucks poorer.

I present to you my Lomo snake-skin LCA camera. I'm still deciding on what name to confer on this gem of mine. Any suggestions?

If you want a glimpse of what this baby can do, check out this guy's flickr page. In my opinion, he is the God of Lomo pictures. And these two are the golden couple at taking fabulous lomo shots.

Oh precious, my precious...we shall make such beautiful images together.

2006-01-03T23:40:00.000+08:00

In A State Of Mind
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Stick 'em up!
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Big Smiles
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Getting Ready To Count Down
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

New Year's Grief

I spent my New Year's Eve at the new club, Ministry of Sound, and was really looking forward to it. From all the press buzzing about their customised rooms catering to different genres of club music, my dancing feet were itching to check out the place.

Well.

Let's just say I have seriously reconsidered celebrating New Year's Eve at any club, at least in Singapore. Because the club management at MOS was simply atrocious. People with pre-sale tickets can only queue from 9pm to 10pm, by which time their tickets are no longer valid? The hugest fucking crowd I've ever seen who are supposed to be on the guest list, milling around an entrance that could fit the tiniest hair? Fucking up the sound system on both the DJ and the crowd who were getting their groove on? Still not getting the sound system back on track after fifteen minutes? You might as well have committed club suicide then.

And the most sacrilegious of all - barring all re-entry when the club was not 100% full? Tsk tsk, I'd say it's time to re-look at your management and policies, MOS. Because they are seriously fucked up.

And no, I don't blame the frontline staff like the bouncers or door bitches, because they're there to do a specific task handed down by the top management. They're just the arm of execution, not the geniuses who are behind the idea of making thousands of people wait outside to give the impression that their club is real hip and happening. I mean, if anything, this guy has provided much insight from a bouncer's perspective and made me realised that in matters of clubbing stupidity, it's almost always the fault of the idiots at the top and stubborn customers who demonstrate Ugly Singaporean behaviour. Besides, a purported fight between a would-be patron and a decidedly stickler-for-rules bouncer at the queue was probably the only highlight of my night. So thanks, MOS bouncers, for providing the entertainment portion of my New Year's Eve.

But I have to say, I pretty much got my panties in a wet bunch when I discovered that I could get trigger-happy with my camera, especially with such an inept management. So I guess that's one saving grace of the night. That and the music the DJs spun at each room was actually very much to my liking but the previous events had already soured my experience by then.

However, I would like to also recommend that either someone teach DJ Darren Emerson to read time properly or appoint someone to give fair warning to the DJ on deck on when exactly midnight is. It provides less confusion that way for the countdown, yes?

2005-12-28T01:49:00.000+08:00

Obviously, the editors had an agenda of their own...

Children stories are a veritable mine for sourcing hilarious dirty-minded lines. Even if there was no intention to do so. The results are classic comedy so let me introduce a sampling of what I've come across so far.

"The One-Inch Boy" is one story in the Kamishibai series. When I had first heard the title, my smart mouth wanted to say "That isn't very impressive, is it?" Lest my boss thinks me in need of disciplinary action (ooohh...), I wisely kept my trap shut. And for heaven sake's, Kamishibai?! That word alone, due to its similar pronounciation of "cheebye" or vagina, immediately brings to mind images of flesh slapping against flesh, with some vocal and fetish action thrown in. Jee-sus.

Now, we all know, hitting other people is frowned upon, especially in kids. So imagine my surprise when I read this line in a fairy tale book.

"Slap her spanking place!"

First off, where the hell would you classify a bona fide "spanking place"? Secondly, the words "slap" and "spanking" should never co-exist in a children's book. EVER. Good god man, were the editors off somewhere taking a bong break and projecting their BDSM desires into these stories? Whatever happened to decency, looking out for your fellow man and sheltering your children from harm? I must have missed the memo on this particular book being the secret missive to convert all children into BDSM fans.

What about these lines, see anything wrong with them?

"Grow bigger and bigger and bigger...ho!"
"Grow smaller and smaller and smaller...ho!"

Taken out of context, these lines are seriously gold. Imagine speaking them in a 1900-phone line voice and you've hit jackpot, especially when you've got the gangsta-speak term "ho" at the end. Adds that brand of authentic touch, doesn't it?

2005-12-23T00:28:00.000+08:00

Movement
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

No Ordinary Secret

7:15 am and her body clock awakens her. Not looking forward to the daily grind, she went through her morning routine in a zombie state. But when her mind turned toward her secret, a huge grin split her face. The most extraordinary secret of all and she relished hugging it to herself. The secret that she was the only entity in this world to be privy to.

Her first step out of the door was with a pronounced spring in it. Let us not assume that as a sign of good things to come her way. For we all know how dangerous and complex assumptions can be. Nevertheless, said spring in her footsteps was the beginning of her buoyant mood.

As she neared her destination, her heart thudded along with the rhythm of her clicking heels. Nothing could calm the riot the butterflies were having in her stomach. All she could do was let the nerves wash over her until it became numb. Yes, she was determined that this was day she would be the irresistible combination of demure lady and sexy seductress. Success was a certainty; hesitation was not a word in her vocabulary for this exercise.

Now, to push onward in the search for the perfect candidate in this imperfect world...

2005-12-20T16:12:00.000+08:00

We now return you to our regular programme...

Well, that little break was good. So how have you guys been? Got a new special someone in your life, got a new job or got famous? Tell me all about it. We need to get up to speed eh?

Birthdays and holidays were spent in the excellent company of friends. Presents and laughter were exchanged. Good times. Mucho looking forward to this weekend - will I get DVDs or pretty earrings this year for Christmas? Only my Secret Santa knows.

Working in a library suits me tremendously, I find - the work culture is also extremely friendly and helpful, unlike my previous job. Now, I just need to somehow scheme my company into sponsoring me working overseas. Or, failing that, plan out how to move out to NYC.

Why, you ask? Simply because I had watched this video...This hilarious rap can only be accomplished by white people trying to imitate black people. Only white dudes could have made that rap snort-milk-out-of-your-mouth funny. I know that when I'm watching "The Chronic (sic) of Narnia" this weekend, a huge grin will be on my face.

Sigh, I really miss Magnolia and Buttercup cupcakes...Singapore cupcakes really suck. Woe is me!

2005-11-28T21:06:00.000+08:00

One Night At Meritus Mandarin...

...can cause untold amounts of chaos. Especially when you add our brand of celebrating Thanksgiving (without turkey but with, instead, Taiwan snacks and pizza) and two birthdays to the mix. More infamous SEWF quotes were born and would be passed down for generations to come. "Got birthday knife?" from hence onward is the catch-phrase for the rest of the year.

Whilst not busy getting myself pissed with the Vodka Vanilla and orange juice mix, I took pictures. Some of them very incriminating and some just plain gorgeous, if I may say so.

Hotel Service
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

The night stand with the old-school telephone, remote control and welcome placard written in what I'd call "tourist languages".

Peperoni
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

The delicious take-away pizza I got for dinner. Even though there were three of us sharing, it was...

Empty
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

...quickly polished off within minutes. I present to you the aftermath of the frenzy feeding. Nary a crumb left to be seen. Thoroughness is our motto when it comes to eating pizza.

Just Fooling Around
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Keith and Ling just chilling on the bed. He's fiddling with Ling's camera and I just bet Ling's dreaming of Julie.

Laughter
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Much laughter ensued when Keith revealed his himbo moment - "Birthday knife, anyone?" But, surely nothing can beat the room service clerk's reply - "Sorry, we don't have any birthday knife." Thank goodness Keith regained his common sense and requested for a cake knife.

That blur in the picture is Reg's arm, not some spirit haunting our room btw.

Camera Crazy
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Yeap, there's a sleazy paparazzi photographer in all of us, revealing our sordid need to document every single detail of our every single moment of our lives. God bless the journalistic spirit.

Laughing
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Little moments like these make me extremely grateful for my friends and the joy they bring me. Cheers, guys.

Mmmm...
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Dear God, whatever will I do for photographs if I had never met Belinda? This woman's the master of photographic poses and I'm thankful that I always manage to capture the right moment.

Brownie Cake
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

My and Regina's birthday cake. Or more accurately, Lizgina's birthday brownie cake. It was decadent, sinful, heavenly and whatever flattering adjectives you can think of. And I think I'm paying the price now with the beginnings of a sore throat. Of course, it could have been the whole pack of Oreos I had. Or the potato chips. Or the alcohol.

Sparkle Motion
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

This was an accidental shot using long exposure. What's a birthday without a self-portrait? And I'm quite happy with this happenstance result.

Brownie points (hehe...geddit?) to anyone who can identify where I got the inspiration for this picture's title from.

Mass Orgy
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

At one point, we were all afraid of being near Keith just because of his spontaneous butt spanking. God knows what really happens behind his bedroom door. In this picture, he has clearly gone berserk with all the repressed desires and has let them loose on poor unsuspecting Louos and H. No help was proffered, in fears that we might get caught in the crossfire of Keith's passions.

D'oh!
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Oh my, this image provides the background for many a hilarious caption.

Reg: "Oh yeah baby!"
Ling: "No, I must keep my eyes only for Julie!"

Reg: "Now, if I may demonstrate to you..."
Ling: "Talk to the hand, girlfriend!"

Funny Girl
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

The funny girl was all dressed up for her company dinner and dance. Fortunately, she wasn't caught drunk on videotape this year. Unfortunately, for us, she had no wild, drunken tales to regale us with.

Funky Hair
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

The aftermath of the hair-do that had us all nit-picking Bel's head like monkeys for hair-pins. No lice was found or harmed during this particular nit-picking.

"Nice or not? Only $30 at my salon leh!"

Preparing The Shot
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Great photographers gather round to discuss the best way to compose and create the ambience of the perfect shot. Opinions were exchanged and debates were heated.

In reality: "Gee, I wish I could take the last slice of the brownie cake!"

Wiggin Out
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

The next few photos, I believe, speak for themselves. Clearly, we were all high on something. Exactly what, I dunno. Maybe it was us trying to recreate our childhood at Toys R Us. Or maybe all that chilli from our Thai lunch burnt too much of our brain cells and malformed us in some way. Whatever, I got excellent pictures because it.

Wiggin Out
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Kaiwaweeeh
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Wiggin Out Altogether
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Taking The Mickey
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

I'm So Beautiful
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

2005-11-27T16:13:00.000+08:00

Eargasm

Are you nauseated by the mere thought of commercial pop music?

Are you irritated by the rubbish that radio is churning out every second?

Are you raging that there simply isn't any more good music while vile and putrid Ashley Simpson has two records out already?

Well, then let me introduce you to radio indie pop! No longer will you have to trawl the deepest depths of the Internet for your eargasms! From Lamb to Postal Service, from Blondie to Fountains of Wayne, this radio site will surely make indie music fans everywhere shout with glee.

I know I have and my ears have been permanently glued to this station. Go indie!

2005-11-24T23:10:00.000+08:00

Wordless

It should be obvious by now to say that I'm having the garden variety writer's block. Not to mention, I'm spending lots of time getting used to the new job. Exciting challenges it may pose but it also means that I come home everyday weary to the bone.

So, instead, I'll let my pictures do the talking for now. Especially since two of them were picked up to be showcased on Utata's front page a week ago and on Verbiage's front page as well. Major coolness. I felt like such a happy shiny person when I saw my pictures on the site.

Ants
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Verbiage Front Page
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

And now a random selection of some pictures I took in the past weeks...

Futuristic
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Leave A Light On
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Light Mass
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Slanted Horizon
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

And I'm late again...
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

To Infinity
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

2005-11-14T01:26:00.000+08:00

Closer To Autumn
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Oh, The Memory

The other day, I met a man whose forearm fascinated me. For some reason, the sprinkling of the hair and the thickness of his wrist had me thoroughly engrossed. And the man attached to it was nothing to sneeze at too. But, alas, a ring on the finger was spotted and my delicious fantasy was promptly shattered into pieces.

For the life of me, I couldn't stop myself from surreptitiously staring at his wrist with the wafer-thin watch. It seemed like it had this magnetic quality that totally hypnotized me. Was it the strength of the forearm that drew me or the delicate veins that were slowly pulsing in tune to his heartbeat? For those few moments, I was entranced by the vision of those forearms engulfing me in their warmth and protection.

Unfortunately, with the press of the buzzer and a whiff of spicy cologne, the mysterious man had to depart for his destination. Fortunately, for me, I'll be seeing more of him and his beautiful wrist on the same bus for days to come.

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I know the image above has nothing to do with wrists or forearms. However, I hope that it does evoke and inspire you to remember of good memories and daydreams. Oh and a few compliments here and there about how pretty my skirt is in the image doesn't hurt anybody too.

2005-11-06T18:13:00.000+08:00

Death Takes And Death Gives

It’s never easy hearing of traumatic events, let alone witnessing them. Even with your hearting pounding rapidly and your nerves slipping by the second, you had to know to keep yourself calm and take the situation into control. And prepare for the worst. I think that’s the hardest part of any death.

Ling’s cat, Amos, fell eleven floors to his death last night and I still can’t believe how sudden it had happened. To think we were joking that this was like the housewarming party that she hadn’t invited us to. God, when I think back on how insensitive some of our paltry jokes seem, in the light of this tragic event, I can just punch myself in the head.

I had never seen a dead person or animal so up close as this time. Dead relatives in open coffins don’t really count coz they’ve been embalmed. I’m talking about freshly deceased, with the body starting to get cold. It was all I could do to hold on to Ling while she cried, prostrate over Amos’s limp body. Horrified silence was all that Bel and I could offer. I had really believed that Amos was gonna pull through.

John was the practical one, arranging for the cremations and payment. He was wise enough to know what words to offer and strength for Ling to rely on. I was so glad that he was there, that we were there for Ling. I don’t think any one person can take so much pain as to see their loved one snatched so quickly, so violently away.

Looking back now, I remember staring into those dilated pupils and thinking so many could-have-beens.

I could have not suggested drinks and DVDs at Ling’s place in celebration of John’s birthday.

I could have let the cats alone in the washroom, where they were hiding behind the toilet bowl.

I could have closed the door to the washroom, where at least they’ll be safe and not wondering around the kitchen.

I could have noticed the open windows next to the washroom and closed it, just in case.

I could have not bothered with the movie we were watching, which I have already watched a thousand times over, and play with the cats and keep them safe.

But, I know all these thoughts would be redundant. Nobody expects accidents to happen and that’s what so frustrating about it. With the help of friends and family, you have to choose a view of looking at these obstacles that will pull you through. If not, you’ll be bogged down by the regrets, guilt and sadness of it all.

So, cry, grieve and remember Amos always as he was, Ling. The joy and memories he had given you, however short they may be, will provide you with the strength to carry on. He may be passed on from this world but sometimes, you just gotta give it to Celine – his heart will definitely go on.

2005-11-03T01:05:00.000+08:00

Temple

The body is a temple, as the saying goes. Some people adorn it with tattoos, to better show off their glistening biceps and/or various parts of the temple, while others subscribe to the school of inhaling every item of food and praying to the porcelain god immediately. Gym bunnies who refuse to have anything to do with outdoor sports or juiced up meatheads who down protein shakes every few hours. However you wish to upkeep or neglect your temple is the individual’s choice.

But, for the love of God, please pick a side and stick to it. Or at least stick to it for a reasonable amount of time. Because nothing pisses me off more quickly than seeing great effort being wasted at one ring of Pavlov’s bell. Especially when that effort involves rollerblading for over an hour and that particular bell turns out to be the ice cream truck.

Just a glimpse of joggers or rollerbladers taking a smoke break irks me to no end. In your bid to become healthy, what exactly is the point of your current action? Ok, maybe they were doing said exercise for pure leisure. But what about those who really do it for the health benefits and the adrenaline rush? Inquiring minds would like to know their motivation.

To add insult to injury, that damn girl was anorexic thin and probably never needed to rollerblade in the first place.

2005-10-29T15:49:00.000+08:00

When you combine four girls with various footwear and cameras galore, what do you get? Four Shoes By The Bay, of course.

Pink Power Sneakers
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Sedate Pink Sneakers
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Back Legs
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Chilling Out Legs
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

All Shoes Forward
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Photos taken by blankettes. Thanks, babe.

2005-10-23T17:41:00.000+08:00

Quirky Signs

Once in a while, some signage makes me wanna stop in my tracks and stare at them. Their humour and ridiculousness attracts me and I give props to their creators. Here are a couple I caught this weekend.

Construction Orchestra
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

This was eye-catching enough with the incongruity of construction workers participating in an orchestra. Doesn't that make you wanna be the first in line to hear what kind of music they'll be playing? I know I would. Hah!

OMG! There he is!
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Nothing special about headless mannequins, right? But, when coupled with that typical teenager-speak speech bubble, the result was priceless. I contributed this photo to the Six Word Story group with the caption "Never lose your head over guys." What other six word stories can you guys come up with?

Hmmm, I wonder how much a typical sign-maker wordsmith makes...

2005-10-16T18:16:00.000+08:00

Bulletin (Tourettes' Edition)

Goal!'s Kuno Becker is such a hottie. Those gorgeous doe eyes, that absolutely adorable accent, that fit body! Who knew bald men can be so sexy?

Who's loving the weather right now in Singapore? Sure, there's been infuriatingly hot days too but when the rain comes, ahhhh, I think God can't do anything wrong. But, major doodoo with the recent Asian earthquake, God. What will it take to ease your wrath, dude?

I'm reading Henri Cartier-Bresson's autobiography right now and it's very illuminating, to say the least. So single-minded in his pursuit of art and photography, I'm becoming a big fan of this photographer who sadly passed away last year. His courage and vision are just awe-inspiring.

If you ever had an hour to spare, may I recommend the insanely hilarious blog, You Can't Make It Up, by Michelle Collins? Unbeknownst to me, she was the director for the website, votergasm.org. I think I mentioned that site sometime last year and thought the premise quite worthy. Unfortunately, as we all know, the result they wanted did not come into fruition. But, still, Michelle has her blog and stand-up comic gigs to bring us her original flavour of humour and musings. Go check her out today!

Lastly, I've finally ended my unemployment last Friday by signing away two years of my life. Half excited, half afraid, I'm trying not to be daunted by the fact that I haven't stepped into a formal office for close to a year. On the bright side, I'll be working with what I love, namely books. So that's a good thing, rite?

And now, for your viewing pleasure, I present these...

Bugis Street
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Twinkles
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

2005-10-06T22:29:00.000+08:00

Heading Up
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Yellow
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Green Layers
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Blue And Green
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

A Study in Colours

My life right now severely lacks colour so here are some pictures of colourful HDB flats that can hopefully cheer me up. Even better if it puts a smile on your face.

These flats are definitely a bright spot to their locale, especially when their surrounding buildings are all mostly dull grey or boring glass.

2005-09-30T23:37:00.000+08:00

Love Hate Relationship

When I first saw this magazine cover at Gawker, my initial reaction wasn't horror or disgust. It was, surprisingly, arousal, even if the models are slightly horizontally-challenged. Then again, I'm no size 6 myself. With this picture, I guess I can understand now why guys like to see some girl-on-girl action.

Certainly, I've seen my share of girls kissing girls and guys kissing guys in real life. But this one is unique coz the guys symbolise long-time rivals and to me, the kiss means that for one moment, even such tender intimacy is possible when you put aside all hatred and prejudice. That is precisely why this picture turns me on.

Or am I alone in this thinking?

2005-09-27T21:28:00.000+08:00

Cocky
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

An Ode To My High-Heels

Oh sadness has befallen me,
A frown has appeared on my lips,
For my high-heels are no more.
The joy you have provided me,
The gasps of admiration you have elicited,
Are but wisps of mere memories.
Has the pull of gravity been that mean to you,
That you crumble upon my every step?

From my first salsa dance to nervous dates,
You have accompanied me through them all.
Even if our time together was fairly short,
I shall attempt to bring you back to life.
No matter what others may say,
All the blisters and sore feet are most certainly worth
Just one more compliment.

A touch of glue may save you,
But we all know it will never be the same.
However shall I go to fancy cocktail parties,
Without the feel of you at my soles?
This may be silly to some,
Much confidence you boost in me,
Just because you make my legs look long.

Oh, whoever out there has the magic touch,
Or has the cleverest tools to mend shoes,
I implore you to leave me a contact.
So that I may forever be in your debt,
And that I shall walk on sunshine for another day.

2005-09-11T13:47:00.000+08:00

Invasion Of Carl's Jr
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Carl, you're the one for me.

Last Night I Fell In Love With A Burger

The Super Star with Cheese at Carl's Jr., to be precise. Double patty with juicy tomatoes, crunchy lettuce and yummy cheese, exactly like in the picture. And in big portions too, not those pathetic Asian edition portions. It was definitely value for money, even if it was fast food.

Now, normally I'd avoid fast food, especially after watching "Super Size Me" and reading "Fast Food Nation". But when I got glowing reviews from my sister who really knows her stuff about burgers, I knew I had get my hands on one of those babies. And I was duly impressed. Never had I felt so satisfied and full after eating at a fast food joint. I even got the meatsweats and that's not a easy feat for any cuisine with me! Burger King had better watch out and, seriously, McDonald's never had a chance. At least, in my books.

Of course, I can still feel the after-effects this morning - the greasy feel in my palate, loss of appetite for any breakfast and I'm sure my cholesterol must have shot up the roof too. But, it was all worth it. Now, excuse me while I'll go prepare for my next visit six months from now.

P.S. I apologise if this post seems a bit 'soft-news', what with the recent events like Hurricane Katrina and remembering 911. But, I think the Internet's probably overflowing with enough depressing stuff so I offer this exciting and gripping little nugget from my life to you, in hopes that you'll chuckle at the fact that consuming a certain fast food brings such delight and pleasure to me. God knows we all need more laughter and love in this world.

2005-08-27T01:25:00.000+08:00

The Famous Ipod Ads
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Song Tag

I got tagged by Reg.

"List five songs that you are currently digging - it doesn't matter what genre they are from, whether they have words, or even if they're not any good, but they must be songs you're really enjoying right now. Post these instructions and the five songs (with artist) in your blog. Then tag five people to see what they're listening to."

1. Zero 7 - Home (Ben Watt Remix)
To me, this was always the band with the very pretty album covers but I never dared to try their music style. So, I was very pleasantly surprised when I heard this track on my iTunes radio. However, I much prefer this remix version to the original mix. It has a more dance-chilled-out feel to it.

2. Green Day - Wake me Up When September Ends
Ohmigod, I always knew that Billy Elliot boy, Jamie Bell, was gonna grow up to be a hottie, but he absolutely blew me (ahem) with his appearance in this MTV with his scruffy, skinhead appearance. *enter wistful sigh* Sometimes, you can't help being a cradle-snatcher.

3. Heather Nova - Mesmerised
I used to be a huge fan of Heather Nova but my enthusiasm for her music kinda waned off the past couple of years. But, with her new album, Redbird, it seems like she's getting her good vibes back.

4. Nouvelle Vague - A Forest
This song just makes you wanna drop everything you're doing, retreat to a forest resort and be massaged by expert masseurs all day long. It's that good.

5. Hott 22 Feat. Octahvia - Ain't No Love (Hott 22 Vocal Club Mix)
Ahhh, good old club music to get your jiggy on. This is no cheesy trance music that you can head-bang to. Just classic dance-house tunes guaranteed to get you on the dance floor. Especially good accompanied with friends and lots of alcohol.

The five people I'm tagging are:
1. StillLost
2. Esther
3. egoboi
4. birdw0rds
5. MakeMineMike

2005-08-17T22:26:00.000+08:00

Sundial
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Don't Stop Shooting

I think that's the best advice I've ever received in my life so far. It doesn't matter what you're shooting for, as long as you don't stop.

Yesterday, I went for a photography workshop and exhibition by photographer Michael Yamashita that was held at the new National Reference Library. It was awe-inspiring and refreshing, to say the least. He had very clever stories and insights to contribute to each of his pictures and it's certainly fired up my ambition to be a better photographer.

Lucky for me, Reg alerted me of this great opportunity to see and hear this National Geographic photographer and I'm glad I went, even if I didn't know of his reputation well beforehand.

I'd also like to think of this picture as a small piece of evidence of my never stopping the motor behind my creativity. This sundial was taken at Marina Bay and I didn't know how to shoot it because of its sheer size. But, I kept on following my instincts and this shot just happened.

Now, if only I can bring the same determination and philosophy to other areas in my life...

2005-08-14T17:35:00.000+08:00

Up And Down
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Octo
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Pus
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Bright Lights And Big Arms
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Crazy Surf
Originally uploaded by Spacecake.

Carnival Memories

Last week, I went on a photo-taking expedition with Reg at the Carnival @ Marina, which was organised in celebration of the recent National Day. I was quite thrilled at the prospect at taking shots of bright lights and excited expressions of the carnival-goers, especially when almost everyone I had asked to come along with me had a sour face as their reply. Obviously, a carnival was not their idea of fun.

When we got there, it was still early evening. The light blue skies were a perfect background for happy faces and carnival rides. But, all the good action happened at night, with the bright lights all a blur and cheesy techno music being played at ear-blasting volume. Oh, this has to be mentioned btw - how can any parent stand by and let their child get on a ride which had blasphemous hip-hop music spewing profanities every few seconds pumping out as background music? They can't possibly be that deaf, can they?

"Yo, bitch, I'll ride your ass as I pump you harder, motherfucker!"

"Ooooo, you touch my tra-la-la!"

As Reg said, it was totally hilarious. I just kept on clicking my camera shutter.

While the carnival rides were cool, I just wish there were more like the Ferris Wheel or Haunted Houses. I haven't seen any of those in ages and I kinda missed them. And where the hell were the roller-coasters, Hammer Swing or the Mansion Of Freaks?! Man, guess I'll have to wait for a more adult-oriented carnival to come along before I can really enjoy myself.