Otakku beku.

Paradise

2012-02-07T23:44:00.002Z

Oh I may have forgotten to mention that I'm watching Coldplay live in Prague come this September?

Tickets are ridiculously hard to come by so I have to thank my bestfriend, Mira for this amazing feat!

Yes, be envious, be very very envious :P

I'm retiring soon, currently warm and cozy underneath my duvet as I'm lazily typing- so this is going to be a quick one.

This was before she discovered One Direction.

And then suddenly everything became about Zayn, Harry, Louis, Niall and Liam- don't ask me why I remember their names. Haha.

Maybe after Coldplay, myself, Mira and Chars may just sinfully (quite literally- considering it may seem borderline pedophiliac) indulge in spectating 5 young boys on stage- so don't be surprised if I actually write about our great oogle fest in a One Direction show one of these days.

Ahh yes, I received such a delightful text message from my brother, who must have been utterly bored at home, seeing how it was a public holiday and the KL gridlock didn't permit the family an outing.

So, I YouTube-d the trailer;

Leon with facial hair. Hmm.

I must say, after all that pixelated hotness in Resident Evil 4, this may need some getting used to. I did some digging and it seems that the gameplay is more fluid than the previous installments- and and and, there's also a co-op mode for 2 players :D
I suppose only time will tell if Resident Evil 6 delivers.
Either way, I cannot wait to play the game with my dear brother, though in actuality, I may just slow him down -_-"

I'm coming home soon- where the para-para-paradise is :)

Cause Malaysia is truly where the heart is.

Family, friends and glorious food <3

Summer can't come any sooner- it has been too long since I've basked under the Malaysian sun with ice cold air kelapa.

Also, I've been dying to read Tun Mahathir's memoir- but haven't had the time to fit his book in between all the medical books :( Perhaps, this summer will permit such indulgence?

He's recent interview on Europe's current nightmare.

Goodnight.

Pyrexial.

2012-01-27T19:26:00.001Z

Such a long hiatus it has been and I apologize for my disappearance.

I have been trying keep afloat amidst the endless cycle of chaos this semester had to offer.

It has been an uphill struggle to stay optimistic getting through the hurdles of 4th Year.

But it would be ignorant to highlight the lows and ignore the ups the past 3 weeks have been!

My friends from high school, known as the RSG (don't ask us why) paid Dublin a little visit.

I truly love this photo. Carefree, albeit a little crazy.

But then again, subtlety has never carried with us, thus, what better way to embrace that with weird poses in the middle of Trinity Square :P

Posing for photos has always been our forte, much to the countless passerby's dismay and probable disgust.

We've known each other since we were all 13.

A decade has passed, numerous times of being apart, separated halfway across the world, sometimes for years- then, there will be a time, we would meet up and come together- and it feels like we never really left high school, and that nothing has changed- except well, an upgrade from singleton to getting married in July *pokes Ika* ;P

I flew down to Nottingham for work (and partial leisure with Mira Muchacha) 2 weeks back. And though the lectures were long and tortuous, we both made it out ALIVE- well, alive enough to enjoy those amazing Bento Boxes, refill our stash of junk food to accompany us during our Jeremy Renner oogle fest in The Hurt Locker. Don't ask me how the movie was, I passed out after 20 minutes from exhaustion.

Nottingham was freezing. We had to let Poppy warm up for a bit before driving out in the morning.

Photographic evidence that I was in fact, trying to learn, and not oogling the Zayn Malik look-alike somewhere in the crowd.

As you drool over the subjects of this photo (ie Amira and the Bento Box), let me enlighten you with a super random fun facts:

Robinson's Fruit Shoot is simply genius. Low in calories, and just the right amount of sugar to keep you up and about with work sans caffeine. I was watching Dexter on the background, hehe.

Alina and I are obsessed with these Jammie Dodgers. So cheap and delicious- brings tears of joy to my eyes.

My sister, Mia sent me a photo of my cats back at home, I miss these little buggers :(

Next weekend will be Aisyah's last weekend in Dublin, between her commitment to the Malay Dance committee and our busy schedules, it was such a sad thing that we were unable to spend much of our last days of being housemates together. Well, not as much as we wish, anyway.

Lunch at 10 Thousand Japanese restaurant.

..Because I'm thoroughly obsessed with Japanese food, as you can already tell.

I've been sick for the past few days, took today off to relax and sleep. Cool off my engine for a bit by watching 90210, GossipGirl (the new episodes are dreadful by the way, but I watched them out of habit, nonetheless) and my favourite Big Bang Theory.

Now if you excuse me, I've had Family Guy streaming on another tab as I was writing. I can hear the theme song playing "It seems today, that all you see, is violence in movies and..."

I bid you a happy weekend, and may the next be better than the one before.

Assalamualaikum.

Cowboys and Aliens- According to Aisyah.

2012-01-09T00:51:00.001Z

We had a little conversation in the kitchen whilst cooking today;

Aliyah:

I just finished watching "Cowboys and Aliens". Oh my God, Daniel Craig is ridiculously hot lah Aisyah, every frame he's in, I macam O_o"

Aisyah:

I watched that movie some time ago sebab I suka Harrison Ford.

Aliyah:

You mean to say, Daniel Craig was going around shirtless in the movie and you looked at Harrison Ford?.............Woman, I thought it was weird enough that I like my men a bit older. But you, you like them ..ancient.

Goodnight!

2011, In A Nutshell.

2012-01-07T18:02:00.005Z

And rain it did in Dublin.

So much so that I am now contemplating popping in Paracetamol for my headache.

And those who know me will attest that I personally dislike taking pills, unless it is of absolute necessity- Ironic, considering I'll be prescribing truckload of medications throughout my line of work.

2012.

1 week in this notorious year, and it finally dawned upon me, I'll be 24 this year.

Yipes.

Another year older, come June 13th.

That could only mean more responsibilities and thus, I'm forced, yet again, to act more maturely (than last year, haha), be tactful of my manners since I no longer have the excuse to say "I was young and naive".

2011 ended with a "Bang!" quite literally, as myself, Mira and Eddy sat near her window sill, in Plaistow, London watching fireworks from 5 different places concurrently from her room.

With recent stabbings and gang fights in London, we opted for a quiet night out with a few friends to end the year that was 2011.

Truth is so many things happened in the last year.

I suppose until today, I never really did the whole "muhasabah" thing- blame the hospital rotations, hehe.

So, take my hand and let's take a walk down memory lane,

With adik-adik, January 2011.

Last Malaysian Night with Mirah and Co., January 2011.

Rindu the clan.

White Coat Ceremony, February 2011.

Chillin' with Izzat and Mirah <3

Eddie's place in Northern Eire, with classmates.

Mehak's 21st, in NV.

PMC Farewell, possibly the last photo all of us took together before they headed home to Penang.

Bruno Mars, March 2011 with Faiz.

Palma Mallorca with Mirah and Chars.

Ryno's visit to Dubs and Robo graduated. He headed home, together with the two lovely ladies pictured above; all of whom are greatly missed :(

Butterton Moar, and Alton Towers, June 2011.

One of our many epic lepak sessions, throughout summer 2011.

Even more farewells- this one was for Hanis.

Hehe. I know I've posted this a million times, but hey, totally made my year, this one :P

Hello Niall Horan (What Makes You Beautiful playing on the background, haha).

Throughout summer, I had many random drives around Dublin. This one was at Phoenix Park, whilst waiting for iftar. A friend drove us here. Wherever he is, and as successful as he was, the last time we met, I wish him nothing but even more success and happiness in the future.

Amira's visit for Raya Aidilfitri, September 2011. Good times :)

A committee member in Dublin Games, first timer as a First Aider, Thank God nobody was seriously injured that day, I would have made them worse, haha.

DBS graduation dinner. It was amazing to see Saffy, Wani, Nonoi and Co. again! Dublin has been too quiet without them.

Aisyah, a very unsuspecting yet amazingly lovely addition to 2011. Such a pleasant person to live with, a good, kind hearted person who has been putting up with me in the last semester, hehe <3
She's seen here with her purchases in the Versace for H&M debut sale.

Went to see Boyce Avenue with Aisyah. I remember the day before the show, being ridiculously saddened by a certain entanglement, though I was suppose to be there with someone else, Aisyah has never been short of amazing to help me through it. A good friend in need, is a good friend, indeed.

Can totally strike off these bunch of rocks from my bucketlist :P
This was the Stonehenge, December 2011.

And to wrap up 2011, I was surrounded with so much love and positivity from my bestfriends- I really, can't ask for a better way to start 2012.

Arina, my dear highschool friend. 10 years and counting :)

Oh and 2011 was the year that Mira, Chars and myself finally agreed on one (or two, rather) dude(s) that we believe are complete and utter gratuitous hotties.
Since we never really have the same taste in men, this clearly, is worth mentioning :P

Jeremy Renner.

Saw him in Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol. And never looked back since.

Can't wait for his Bourne debut.

Daniel Craig. He has a long list of good movies. His most recent one- Girl with The Dragon Tattoo was amazing!

How did I come from liking Zac Efron to Daniel Craig, is beyond me.
But yeah.
Happy weekends!

Leap of Faith.

2012-01-05T19:22:00.001Z

With Semester 2 of Year 4 started last Wednesday, I found myself rudely awakened by the thought of having to study, and restudy what I've studied.

Medicine has a way of making you feel utterly incompetent as a student, slowly destroying every fibre of self-esteem you had.

In short, its not for the faint hearted.

I walk in everyday into the hospital, as though the blind walking amidst darkness- I have my goals, but I don't know what to expect- what I'm going to be asked by the Consultant, or if I remembered anything at all that I'm expected to know at the tip of my tongue at this point.

It all boils down to that moment when the Consultant looks at you and asks you a question.

At that time, your brain works on overdrive, digging your memory banks- sometimes, it says "Hey, that sounds familiar- hang on! I know this" and at worst it just gives up on you, leaves you there with a blank stare, and the next thing you know you'd be saying "Sorry, sir. I haven't a clue."

The pressure builds up and carries you home, with that sinking feeling at the pit of your stomach- you've failed to know, failed to remember and that's two "fail"s in one sentence- and that could only mean one thing- you're not a good student.

And that's my worst nightmare, because all I could remember since I was in kindergarten was trying to be the best student I could be, about pushing myself to the edge- Perhaps, now I'm too close to the edge that it feels like I'm gonna fall into a bottomless pit of failure.

I come home terrified and frantic- I'm in 4th Med, I cannot NOT know this.

And so I called my folks, I miss them dearly but they're so far away.

I haven't seen them in the flesh for a year and a half-

sometimes, I walk into my room, and felt that sudden pang of missing my family, so bad in fact I had to run to Aisyah's room and stayed there until I feel better.

And recently, I came to know she's leaving for Malaysia for good, earlier than expected- sigh.

I wanted to hug my Mom- because nobody understands me better than her, I wanted to talk to my dad face to face- because I treasure his views.

I needed to feel their presence. Because it has always been about them.

The only reason why I push myself everyday, not giving up in doing what I do, was because above everything else, I wanted to do this, and do this well, for my parents.

Today, after Maghrib, I recited the Yasin in hopes to calm myself down from the sinister mix of pressure and stress that has been bottling up- and I thought about Mom and Dad- and its been a long time since, that I shed tears.

It was all too overwhelming.

I miss my family and I needed emotional support.

And there was a void in the sense that I subconsciously refuse to obtain it from everyone around me.

So I appealed for it from God to give me strength into every fibre of my being, and not doom me of faint heartedness.

Because, many hurdles will I have to face, many roller coasters of positive affirmations and blank stares to go through- before I walk out that Arrival Hall in KLIA to see my family waiting for me.

Today is my Father's birthday.

Happy Birthday Papa.

May Allah bless you always and protect everyone at home from harm's way.

Ombak Rindu.

2012-01-03T11:37:00.000Z

I came home back to good ol' Eire on Saturday and crashed of exhaustion.

I needed to organize.

My wardrobe, my academic-related sctuff and well, my life.

After all the hooblah in Facebook about a certain local movie, I decided to play "Ombak Rindu" on the background while I sort out my clothes into charity boxes, and make room for new ones.

Its a beautiful movie- beautifully shot, beautiful actors.

But I cannot help but notice that everyone who cries in the movie cries because of Aaron Aziz's character- Hariz.

Lisa (Mila), Maya (Izzah) and even Pak Dollah and Mak Jah balled their eyes out from the asshole-ness that is Hariz.

This movie essentially generalized two types of women -

Mila-esques: overseas-educated, speaks her mind, short-tempered, "her way or the highway" sort of

persona, reckless and of course "free hair" and excessive make-up.

On the other end of the spectrum, there stood the Izzah(s) of Malaysia: demure kampung girl, with fantastic command of her mother tongue, pure and naive.

Both of these contrasting women have a common interest- Hariz.

And he proved to be weak all throughout the movie- in his Islamic faith, in his ability to make decisions, in being honest, and in standing up in what he believes in.

His temperament is everything a girl should avoid- yet he managed to court 2 girls and in consequence, cause them nothing but misery.

If this movie has any message at all- it would be that- when a woman falls in love, it is not easy for her to let go of her feelings.

And I suppose many, perhaps, myself included; could relate to that to a certain level- but alas, a smart woman (regardless if you're a Mila or an Izzah) knows when to leave and move on when her feelings and well-being are in jeopardy, and this movie fails terribly to assert that.

All seriousness aside, this movie was an enjoyable watch with an entertaining storyline.

50/50

2011-12-17T11:37:00.003Z

Commemorating the end of exams season (duly acknowledged as second most torturous season after winter), I found myself slumped on my bed, buried under two layers of duvet, all set to hibernate and disconnect. Being a somewhat embarrassing avid movie geek, I strolled the vast array of videos on YouTube and stumbled across this movie trailer- called "50/50".

It caught my attention and I decided to watch it until I fall asleep- only that I didn't. It kept me glued to my laptop screen untill the very end.

It follows the life and journey of a young man, of my age who discovers he has a rare type of spinal cancer. He then finds out he has 50% chance of survival. Hence, the title.

It is as though he had unknowingly hit a brick wall and is clueless as to where to go from there- his life spiralled out of control; him and his life pre-diagnosis seem to be rendered insignificant- and the cancer took over his identity and all his being.

Its a compelling perspective. As students we learn about cancer, about the adverse effects of chemotherapy and the mortality rates of various cancers. To us, they're just percentages; 30% chance of survival in 5 years, 10% chance of survival in 1 year for its more aggressive counterparts and so on.

But to these patients, these mere percentages are mentally calculated with extreme caution, in weighing out if they will get through the year, heck, even the week.

I will admit that I have shamefully overlooked the intricate fine prints of the repercussions of cancer to patients. How these strong, admirable people would cope once they leave the doctor's office and go home; how they seek for the will to live, waging wars against their own bodies.

Its an inspiring movie.

I urge each of you to watch it.

Oh, and did I tell you, Joseph Gordon Levitt was the main actor?

It made me think, what would I do today, if I know I'll die tomorrow, or soon after?

Would I take life for granted and dwell on the things I don't have?

Would I seek what I don't have so as to be complete before my departure?

I realise it is a rather depressing note post-examinations, but its been a while since I last wrote about what dwells in my mind. Its all been too superficial, this blog, as of late, mainly because as long as I can keep the ongoing rambles in my brain to myself, I'll do just that. But some things leave profound impacts in your life, and you want to say something but the words don't come out right in real life- so you write, you write to whoever cares enough to read.

“Never impose on others what you would not

choose for yourself.”

(Confucius, Analects 15:23)

Having studying Forensics, Legal Medicine and Ethics recently, I've found my new year's resolution for the upcoming year. Its simplistic, but if I were in Adam's (Levitt's character) shoes, in my current mental and financial state, I wouldn't be able to afford a holiday to Korea or somewhere fancy just so I could say I've seen the world, I wouldn't be able to do crazy things just so I could complete my bucket list, all I could do is be a better person as each day passes until its my last.

Happy Holidays, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

I'm heading to Manchester tomorrow, Bristol on Wednesday and London on Christmas Eve.

I suppose this blog will take a minor hiatus until I get back to Dublin.

Take care and Assalamualaikum.

Legal Medicine Blues and Family Ties

2011-12-12T22:12:00.000Z

(1)

All together now, *Awwwwww* My sister sent me this photo of her penguin soft toy.

No idea why she's obsessed with these little buggers, but they are adorable- I suppose that alone merits it.

I like this video. Nothing to do with how I feel right about now, however.

Need I remind you regarding my random encounter with Niall (that's the blondie in the video) at the airport.

My only regret was that I looked like I jumped out of bed and headed to the airport.

Because that was exactly what happened that morning, haha.

Side note, I have about 0% drive with this upcoming paper, still gauged by with post-examinations nonchalant mood.

I. Am. So. Homesick.

Lately, I've been waking up to my Daddy's whatsapp and my dear sister's "PING!"s on BBM.

(They obviously miss me too :P )

Its the best way to start my day- a pleasant reminder to push through hard times!

Daddy sent me this photo via BBM, its always pleasant to see everyone looking well and happy back home.

This warms my heart- amidst this ridiculously cold weather haunting Dublin these days. Blergh.

How is it that she's 14 and she looks like this?

When I was 14, I looked about as good as a squashed pumpkin.

(2)

Went (more like crashed) the PMCSA-RCSI Farewell Dinner last week. I needed an excuse to hang out with my mates (and alleviate any guilt of not studying that night)- that and because I'm shameless of going to a party that I literally knew 10 guests our of hundreds.

I thought this was a cool picture, I was smiling to another camera and somebody else snapped this picture :)

(3)

Heading to Manchester to visit Arina this Sunday, then boarding a train to Bristol to liaise with Charuni before we are joined by Mira for our great conjoint Boxing Day cum New Year's Eve plan with Eddy!

Besties, what would I do without thee :)

Goodnight!

New Year's Eve and 17 Again

2011-12-11T23:02:00.002Z

Myself, Elle and Aisyah went to watch New Year's Eve today.

Its a beautiful movie, very "unicorns and rainbows" - I can only wish my new year's eve in London this year (Yippie!) would be anywhere near as eventful!
There were so many scenes that rendered the audience to sigh, well-up tears, and chuckle.
Such a chick flick, this one.

I got home and jumped on Aisyah's comfy bed and we quickly googled the links to stream 17 Again online.

To date, I've watched this movie 6 times- Yep, 6 bloody times, and still not bored of the scenes with the Audi R8 and the chain of well-fitted checkered shirts and skinnies.

Zac Efron.

God have mercy.

Visual Stimulations

2011-12-06T22:31:00.002Z

Was browsing through some photos in my phone and came across a few interesting ones;

My friend loves to send me random photos that captures his attention, and I, in turn love receiving these delightful updates- We haven't seen each other for years, but thank God for Whatsapp! Amazing how technology connects people so effortlessly.

That beaming little(?) girl would be my sister. I have no idea who the dude is, but she's growing up so fast!

I miss her so much :'(

Others decided to send me photos of amazing food that Dublin falls short to offer me.

Prosperity Burgers as he said, would be amazing time-time winter ni :P

Indeed it would, but it will have to wait till next winter when I get home, InsyaAllah :)

And rootbeer floats :) Nyums! But totally feasible since AsiaMarket has the famous A&W rootbeer and all I need is a couple scoops of my favourite Murphy's Vanilla Ice-cream :P

That would be Charuni flirting with a very stiff looking (no pun intended) Efron, haha. He didn't look very pretty here, unfortunately :( But he's coming out with a new movie "New Year's Eve"- I'm probably the only one amongst my circle of friends who's itching with anticipation! hehe

Ahh, yes- the (in)famous scrubs- whilst I think I totally rocked these unflattering and washed-out scrubs, my nerdy glasses and head-covers are all too synonymous with my being academically enslaved :(

This semester is fast coming to an end (can't say I'm complaining).

I remember sending this photo via whatsapp, ranting how I was the only one left in the lecture theatre during lunch break, cause I needed to catch up on some reading, and the response I received was "Can't say that I'm surprised :p"

Hehe, good ol' days- where have ye gone to?

My B&B in Wexford <3

I loved Wexford, I loved my room there, I loved (like, literally fell in love) with the Registrar I was attached to (he was soooo nice, and sharp, and hardworking, and.. well the list goes on :P), I miss the dainty little cafes overlooking the harbour. SO romantic.

Went for coffee with Nadirah back when it was approaching Halloween.

The "Casper-esque" liquid chocolate outline was crazy adorable, brings a smile on anyone's face, no?

I actually have forgotten I took a picture of the tickets for the Boyce Avenue show.

These tickets were meant to be a surprise, of what I thought was a nice gesture for someone, but yeah.

I was >---< this close to buying this dress for Med Ball 2011. Unfortunately, it was crazy uncomfortable and the cutting wasn't flattering (that, or I needed to shed a few pounds, lol). So I opted for a shiny top instead, hehe.

.... Because I'm absolutely clueless about the latest trends these days. Need to keep up with the ever evolving fashion world, haha. Poyo, much? I think so too :p

Goodnight!

UCD Medicine Ball 2011

2011-12-04T02:14:00.001Z

My friend, Soe-na suggested that I'd join in the fun for this year's Med Ball, and I agreed to tag along, since the last time I went was way back in 1st Med.

Held at the Burlington Hotel in Leeson St, the theme was 1930's elegance- the era of dapper-looking men in mafia-esque double breasted tux, and women in flapper style dresses, tight curls and bright red lips.

...but nobody really followed the theme, hehe. We're medical students- no time to allocate for fashion flashbacks :P

So Soe-na and myself just threw on our backs whatever we could rummage from our wardrobe and mesh them- in hopes they will somewhat adhere to the theme.

Before the proceedings- at Soe's after getting dolled-up. We did each other's hair and became our own fashion critics before stepping out into the cab as we made our way to the venue.

We were served with a 3-course meal, food was lovely, especially the dessert. I skipped the chicken, but the portabello mushroom with stuffing was AMAZING o_O

Yes, we were assembled in a line before going in for security checks -__-"

The decorations were meticulously done, with beautiful centre-pieces, luxe velvet drapes and crystal chandeliers illuminating every nook and cranny of the ballroom.

Soe-na getting cozy in her seat as people are slowly filling up the ballroom.

I didn't get a lot of pictures with my classmates- we chucked our 4-inch heels to the side of the dance floor and joined the crowd of bare-footed female comrades, dancing the night away, catch up and chill out till the wee hours of the morning.

Somewhere around 1.30am after the LONG night. Puffy eyes, cheeks and all :S

Soe-na and myself headed back home and we resumed our late-night chats- as they say, pillow talk :p

I had such a good time, and I owe it all to her! I must admit I did need a little convincing at first, but in hindsight, I'm glad I went. If anything, it was an experience, and count on me to make splurge on a 70eu ticket for Med Ball 2012 next year :)

Its been a long day, gonna retire now. Goodnight.

Epic Lunches and Photo Collage

2011-12-03T11:12:00.000Z

One would think after a gruelling exam, indefinite number of hours for slumber are in order!

On the contrary, we started class the Monday after.

Complete snoozefest, I can assure you.

But Mom said, life is what you make of it, and I was adamant about having a week off post exams; classes or no classes!

My recent obsession with Dawson St's Sushi King was further encouraged by a fellow Japanese-food-enthusiast last week.

I've always thought duck meat is a tricky one to cook- but these Grilled Duck with steamed rice and roasted sesame seed was made to perfection. Nyums.

My friend decided to keep it safe and resided with the Bento Box. But the Chicken Katsu was soo good.

I'm also blessed with friends who are fond (perhaps, a little too fond of :P) CityDeals coupons.

I can't say I'm complaining cause that usually means free lunch for me, haha :p

We headed for Burritos & Blues around near the IFSC and ordered us some "Blow Your Head Off" spicy salsa on our burritos. NYUMS.

And what's post-exams celebration without some Ladurée macaroons fix with Azy :)

I went to one of my friend's place to hang out, he's making dinner, so I decided to buy some desserts.

And the Caramel Toffee Crunch just HAD to be on the top shelf.

And being the awesome friend he is (NOT! :P) he dicided to take a picture of me struggling to reach them desserts instead of helping me out, pfft -___-"

On a more random note, guess who made it to the UCD's official 2012/2013 Open Day poster, ngehehe.

Yep, my height embarrasses me sometimes -__-"

I'm heading out to get some groceries, a major cookout with the housemates tonight, I'm baking a cake :)

But here's a sneak peak of my Med Ball experience :)

Happy Saturday!

Just(In Time)berlake and The Usual Suspects

2011-11-26T21:08:00.003Z

Exams are over. EXAMS ARE OVAAAAHUAARGHHHH! It has been since Thursday, I just haven't the time nor the drive to update.
I indulged in a 14-hour slumber post-OSCEs to catch up on lost times in dreamland.

That's Surgery and Medicine (A) done and dusted- even managed to score a quick tutorial from my intern friend, all the way from Malaysia via Whatsapp, lol.
Gelabah or sheer dedication? You decide :P

Friday came and went.
I made my way to UCD to lend a hand in a joint collaboration between the 4th Meds and 3rd Meds to aid the juniors with their Clinical Examinations papers next week.
Came home, dropped everything and got ready for a movie with my mates.
We decided to spoil ourselves silly with the plethora of eye-candy in the underrated "In Time" - starring my first ever celebrity crush the one and only, Mr JT.

Mara and myself got more than we bargained for when Alex Pettyfer (Re: I Am Number Four) made an appearance after Matt Bomer's (Re: White Collar) reckless antics in a ran-down bar in the ghetto bits of a futuristic town- where people stop aging at the age of 25.

Cillian Murphy (Re: 28 Days Later) was the "TimeKeeper", ie the righteous Garda/law man who irons all the kinks and chaos our hottie, JT has managed to unearth.
And Amanda Seyfried was so adorable, I loved all her dresses and she runs around in the movie in a 4-inch stilettos- MAD RESPECT!!

To cut a 2-hour long story short, In Time is highly recommended for its metaphorical symbolisms - the concepts behind this movie was phenomenal, I thought it was brilliant- but somewhat poorly executed.
I suppose in the hands of a better director/production team- In Time could've easily compete with Inception/The Adjustment Bureau- it also could benefit from a more outstanding title.
My friend mistakenly referred it to In Between(ers) which I suppose says a lot about how little attention this movie has garnered.

After the movies, we all went for a late night coffee at Heavenly for a proper catch-up sesh before heading to the Porterhouse for some live music. The Usual Suspects were playing that night-
and they were uh-may-zing.

Nothing beats a live band strutting their stuff, music bursting your tympanic membrane (no sweat! they will spontaneously heal, hehe) and the liberating feeling of ultimate freedom post-exams.

Woot Woot!

Conversations with Ghosts.

2011-11-22T10:25:00.011Z

"Missing you could turn from pain to pleasure, if I knew you were missing me too."

But I know you don't.
And a part of me wishes you'd read this.
But I know you won't.

You're always at the back of my head, haunting me like a ghost,
When you said "Nothing changes between us." .
I wanted to say "And nothing changes on how I feel for you".

I tried showing you who I am and what I can be for you, but that wasn't enough.

I, wasn't enough.

Its been weeks since I last heard from you.

How are you?
How's work?
How was your last on-call?
There's this new movie coming out and it looks cool, and no, its not a scary movie, haha- Zac Efron is in it! I'd totally like to watch it!
... But who are you gonna watch it with?
I'm doing fine.
Exams are over now, thanks for all your pep talk and confidence that I'll be fine.
I think I did okay.
I realised I didn't have the chance to tell you all about Boyce Avenue, my Versace shopping trip and all the things that we used to spend hours talking about.

I'm sure you're busy with your life, and that you're doing swell, wherever you are, whatever you're up to.

Take care of yourself, not that you need the reminder,
You've always been independent and work-driven.
I know you'll be so successful, one day.
I also know everyone back home is so proud of you.
You've done an amazing job getting to where you are.
I'm digressing.
Its 5am, I'm sure you're tucked in with iPod and your Paramore playlist on loop.
So long. Goodnight.

Its just that, sometimes, I cannot help but wonder, do I even cross your mind, as much as you have of mine.

Nothing hurts more then waiting since I don’t even know what I’m waiting for anymore.

Sailing

2011-11-20T02:00:00.001Z

I want to sail away.

To a faraway ocean, with palm trees swaying to the rhythm of the waves,

Anchor the sailboat, dip my toes in the white sand, and sleep under the stars.

Perhaps, by sailing away, I will stumble upon new shores, ones that will not banter this beaten soul anymore.

And now, I shall sail away.. within the depth of my thoughts.

Shimmy Shimmy Sushi!

2011-11-10T17:54:00.001Z

It has been a while since I last had my Japanese food fix- considering its been ages since I last hung out with Chars and Mira :(

We're absolute nutters for Japanese food.

If you happen to stop by Bristol at any point of your life- go to Obento- THE best Dynamite Rolls on this face of earth- So GOOD it brings tears to my eyes.

So today, I dragged, like literally dragged, poor Aisyah for lunch- she wasn't feeling too peachy these days, and if it weren't up to me, she's just gonna sulk around the house underneath the duvet the whole day through- while knitting. Yes, she knits- and her current project is a neck warmer for yours truly, hehe :P

I swear I didn't ask her to make anything for me- ....just kind of hinted, Dublin's getting colder these days, and my neck's freezing, hehe :)

Anyway, yeah, in an attempt to cheer up my housemate (and my tummy!) we opted for Sushi King over in Dawson Street- its halal, Hoorah! That will have to do at this point of dire cravings!

You have to try BangBang Chicken- it is as explosive as it sounds, Nyums.

Single and available yah- PM me if you want her number :P

Lelaki beriman dan berperibadi mulia sahaja dibenarkan untuk apply :P

After that, we decided to jalan-jalan around Grafton Street- at that point, making pinky promises to NOT shop anymore- since last weekend's vow to saving up proved to be futile :(

And then we saw those damned four letter words that should be banned with extreme prejudice- SALE.

Sigh.

I have no inhibition when it comes to clothes- its my kryptonite- after One Direction, maybe :P

And henceforth, Aisyah and myself consoled each other by rationalizing our purchases- in an attempt to convince ourselves that we actually need these clothes- retail therapy AND practicality.

Its a win-win situation, I assure you.

Not so much win for my bank account.

GAH.

Good weekend everyone!

From Boyce Avenue, With Love.

2011-11-10T10:26:00.000Z

This is my opinion, their best original song by far <3

I'm in a hella good mood, so I'm gonna write :)
So okay,
BOYCE AVENUE FT"effing"W
Fabian, Alejandro and Daniel make up the trio that is Boyce Avenue- a group that has made every mainstream hit songs you've heard sound even better with their own twist- of what I call- the Boyce Phenomenon.
Alejandro's smouldering, husky MLTM voice - that's Make Love To Me voice for those who aren't in the loop of how sexy this guy sounds in his videos- actually sounds even smexxier live.

I should and would upload a few live videos for you, but seeing how exams are in the corner, and uploading videos are going to take forever, I suggest you listen to a few of these covers that I personally love :)

And my favouritest favourite cover of ALL time- which, by the way, they performed that night- both Tyler Ward and Alejandro, Coldplay's Fix You.

Nothing better than a guy holding a guitar and serenading his heart's out- I suppose, it helps that his name is Alejandro as well :p

So I planned to go for their show ages ago, bought the tickets and everything nearly 2 months ago. That's how excited I was, haha.

Aisyah and I managed to hang out with Aboy and Emir before heading for the show, it was nice to catch up with them since all of us have been crazy busy in the past few weeks.

Tyler Ward was the opening act. Aisyah and myself were gushing on how adorable he was on stage. He was all over the stage, jumping, moving around that I couldn't get a good shot of him- Also, because my camera obviously sucks :(

Ward was all smiles, and kept saying the crowd was the wildest he's seen so far throughout their European Tour. I'd never equate Dublin and crazy in the same sentence- but Mr Ward, you've got my approval.

He's very talented, easy in the eyes and he sounded amazing on stage :)

I treated Aisyah for the show, because she's been super awesome putting up with my crazy pre-exams antics, with us being housemates and all, hehe.

I wasn't feeling too peachy from last Sunday's predicament so I decided to wear colourful tops and skirts in hopes to lift up my spirits- With the help of Alejandro and Ward- all is well now. All is well.

I'm obviously in love with this man. Haha.

I cannot remember the last time I hear good music performed live, and if anything, last Monday was a reminiscent of how much I love concerts and shows- a year ago around this time, I went to My Chemical Romance, Paramore and Lady Gaga. Admittedly, they were all of different genres but each artiste has brought their own unique presence on stage- and each of them has been phenomenal to say the least :)

I had fun, and I totally needed that. So Boyce Avenue, you guys were amazing, and I'm a bigger fan now than I have ever been.

Bow Wow Chicka Wow Wow

2011-10-31T23:02:00.001Z

I have nothing to say to justify these series of vain photos.

I'm tired. No, I'm exhausted. I'm famished. I haven't showered. I haven't combed my hair for 2 days. I actually, forgot how my hair looks like when its down cause I'm too used of looking in the mirror with it clipped messily up.

And my ranting in this blog is about as socially appropriate as I can get at this hour.

Also, when I'm stressed, I sing along the Biebs and do silly dances till I'm proper knackered.

So yeah...

Cheaters and Betrayals.

2011-10-30T11:40:00.012Z

And so I sat on her bed and hugged her, as she held back the tears.

She has never cried in front of me. Trying to gather all the strength she could muster, put up a facade, as though fearing she would come across as weak should she allow one drop of tear stream across her peachy cheeks.

But her eyes were always swollen, drooped as though fighting the agony she feels.

He cheated on her.
I didn't flinch upon hearing that- somehow it didn't come as a complete surprise- I suppose, that's how little faith I have in men these days.

She's such a nice, dainty, demure, kind hearted person- and she's suffering from her core because of someone who cannot see her worth.

She's afraid.

Relationships tend to make you feel like you need the other person like oxygen- when you don't.

I didn't say a word to her and I let her speak to me, let her poured her heart out- her expectations, her dreams she's had for the both of them, her plans for them- and how everything came crashing down the moment he admitted to have been with another woman.

I kept quiet the whole time she was telling me this. I held her hands, and felt how weak her grasp was.
She looked disheveled and restless. She hardly ate anything, and her face was starting to testify to her heart's agony.

She said she misses him so much- despite all that he's done.
I said she misses the memories- not him.
All these silly little things your mind holds on to- they will all be distant fragmentations of your memories- slowly rendered irrelevent in your future life- they will slowly be replaced with new pleasant ones.

When it happens, it feels as though you'd never fall for anyone else anymore.

Your heart refuses to open up to anyone.

With time, you compensate the loneliness and heartache with self-love and confidence. You learn to get up on your on two feet, to be independent, to depend only on yourself and noone else.

You'll get out of it- stronger than ever.

It will crush you like a pulp now- and you're allowed to feel absolutely lifeless and flaccid for as long as you need to- but it will be okay in the end, cliche'd as it may sound.

Somewhere in the future, after you're sure of you are, what you want and who you want to be- your heart will let you know when its ready to let someone in.

It took me a while to really "feel" again. You'll be more cautious of who you open your heart to, you'll take everything, and anything slowly with caution. You tiptoe your way into conversations, and how you project yourself.
Until you meet someone who really catches your eyes.
Someone who fits everything you'd ever want in a man.
Someone who's everything your ex(es) aren't.
Someone who moves mountains just by looking into your eyes, and effortlessly makes everyone else in the room disappears.
Someone who guides you to a better version of yourself.
Someone who brings you closer to Allah unknowingly, who treats you well and never fails to take your breath away.

Trust me, these men exist. He doesn't know it, but I've met one myself.

But until then, don't settle, don't question yourself, don't take shit from anyone who doesn't appreciate you.

...

All these things ran through my head as I sat there on her bed, still hugging her, as she held her head on my shoulders- her eyes fixated on the floor, overwhelmed with utter dismay.

One day, when she's ready, when the time is right, I will tell you my story, my dear. And the paramount of ordeals I was forced to face reduced me into shadows, but I made it out alive- and so will you.

Dyspnoea

2011-10-26T18:31:00.002+01:00

Just a quick entry before I head out with Aisyah and Faiz for Paranormal Activity 3.

Movie night out phew. Much needed I'd say :S

Recently, I was bitten by the cooking bug and since I've always loved everything Korean (2pm- holler! :p)

....I've decided to cook Japchae!

Japchae is a simple dish of stir-fried korean glass noodles, and not only its (too!) easy to make, its absolutely gorgeous to have when you're craving for a homecooked meal but short of ingredients.

I was first introduced to Japchae during one of my visits to Bristol, with my lovely bestfriend, Charuni :)

You need:

Vegetables (truckload of mushrooms and spinach, nyums!)

Glass noodles

Roasted sesame seeds

Sesame oil

Chicken or Seafood

Throw everything in the pan and use your imagination :p

Chars too has also panned out the uber delicious Korean seafood and vegetarian pancake, which looked and tasted a-may-zing :)

I have yet to get the recipe from her, but like everything else Korean- they're completely do-able (yes, that was a sexual innuendo, hehe)

Okay, gotta get ready and head out. Let's hope this Paranormal Activity 3 movie lives up to its hype!

Bright Nights and Dublin Games/Dinner

2011-10-21T20:37:00.002+01:00

This is my jam when I'm alone in my room and nobody's around to judge my abysmal dancing ability :p

Sway to right, shimmy to the left, repeat cycle :)

So okay, tomorrow's the annual 2011 Dublin Games and to celebrate the winners and participants, we're hosting an elaborate dinner at Swai Restaurant.

(1)

Do come to the UCD football pitch behind the UCD Sports Centre and show your support for the teams playing tomorrow morning :)

It'll also be nice to get together with everyone again.

Best of luck to everyone who's participating tomorrow.

But above all else, have tonnes of fun while you're at it :)

(2)

As for the dinner, it'll be at ...

Swai Restaurant
Unit B
City Centre North
Dublin

Unfortunately tickets are sold out :( But to those who managed to get hold of them- Doors open at 8.00pm- and be sure to don your best shirts and/or our traditional costumes and I'll see you there :D

KUD has worked super hard to make sure everything goes smoothly, and I commend the committee members for their tireless effort! They've done amazing! :D

Here's to hoping the weather cooperates with us tomorrow! Hehe

Teenage Dream

2011-10-16T10:42:00.007+01:00

Monday tends to overstay its welcome.

More often, it comes when uninvited.

I have so much to look forward for in the coming weekends, but when weekends come and go, it just means exams are getting closer, as well.

I'm always heavy hearted to leave Dublin.

I miss my friends, my bed, my kitchen..... and the view from my window- of an unkempt backyard, of weeds as tall as I am- not exactly panaromic, I admit- but its home :)

(1)

Dublin Games 2011 in UCD and a few other venues.

(2)

Kelab Umno Dublin Annual Dublin Dinner.

At Swai Restaurant on the 22nd of October around 8.00pm.

Come one, come all!

Tickets are limited so be sure to book them early :)

(3)

Boyce Avenue live in Olympia Theatre, Dublin.

Alejandro is the man behind Boyce Avenue's sultry sound, and I cannot wait to see him and the Avenue Co. ~~rock out~~ lulluby and entice the audience this November.

Something a little more subtle- Yeah, I believe age is catching up with me.

(4)

Cupcakes Galore!

I told Azyan they're the best cupcakes in the world- because I made them with Tender, Lovin' Care :p

Genius at work :P

The chocolate chip cupcakes, sans the icing.

The final product :D

(5)

So another week in Tullamore- Bring it on!

Sure, I'd probably be bored half to death, but I know I'll bounce back and I'll be all smiles again when the weekend comes.

My room for the next 2 weeks.

This semester actually matters, gotta give it my all, blood sweat and tears.

The pressure is unequivocal to anything I've experienced before.

But when the weekends come, everything has to wait- because I'm always on automatic shutdown starting Friday- which is bad, actually :(

Talked to Mom just now, she said I was glowing (of which I believe due to the fact that I had my study lamp illuminating my face the whole time during Skype).

Went to Kimchi again, the. most. amazing. tomyam-ish dish. ever!
Couple that with the best. vanilla. ice. cream. ever! and someone you can spend ages talking and laughing- and you get yourself a good day!

Conversations are really underrated these days.

Maybe that's just cause I'm a boring person who doesn't know how to have fun- I think so too :(
Either way, good food and an even better company are always appreciated.

Ohhh did you guys get the iPhone 4s?

*Pokes Mira*
My bestfriend said its the best thing she's ever spent her money on- and that's saying a lot since she's spent on a lot of things! :p and believe it or not Siri actually works- it's AI slowly adapts to the owner's accent and articulation to allow for smoother communication between you and your beloved iPhone 4s.
So so tempting but I've grown deeply attached to my BB, so unless the iPhone 4s can make me a sandwich, the prospect of me getting a new phone is very far in the future, hehe.

Don't forget to download the OS 5! Its swell!

Before I leave, allow me to share some medical knowledge with you,

Dancing nipples.
That's one clinical exams I don't mind observing, hehe.

Have a great week!

Syukur

2011-10-06T12:30:00.001+01:00

Syukur - a simple two-syllable word bearing unparalleled weight in its meanings than its phonics.
Today, our family learnt the essence of what this word truly means.

I've written about my father in a previous entry.

As I talked to Mom on Skype, my phone rang, it was Daddy, and he sounded delighted on the phone, I digested his words- clear and confident- as he always is- "I got it!"

His tone was different this time, its as though he was finally resurrected from the ashes, strengthen and empowered- beaten and battered, he may be- but in faith to God and in us, he found his strength.

I'm very proud of you, Papa.

You deserved this.

Alhamdulillah.

Hopefully, this is the beginning to many more great things ahead of us, insyaAllah.

Breach of Comfort

2011-10-04T22:29:00.009+01:00

Treat a man like a celebrity, and he'll treat you like a fan.

Treat him like a dog, and he'll treat you like his master.

The irony baffles me.

El Nino

2011-10-01T10:11:00.003+01:00

Dublin bade its morning with little pearl drops poured from the sky; city dwellers beaten by a week's labour snuggled underneath the warmth of their duvets, rendering everyone homebound, lullabies sashaying towards dreamland- I took a deep breath and smiled at the sight of flooded tiers of the rooftop, its a beautiful Saturday morning nonetheless.

I called home and Mom's voice echoed in my room.

The best way to start a day, no matter how gloomy, is to wake up to your loved ones.

I miss Kuala Lumpur.

This picture was taken by my friend from one of his many flights through KL.

So it can rain all day, everyday, for all I care, as long as I have the internet to talk to Mom and the family back home, Whatsapp to contact Mira and Chars abroad and weekends to see friends I've missed over the weekdays, its all good :)

Also, just a little somethin' somethin' to ponder about.

Mom gave me these verses earlier today to accompany me throughout rainy days :)

Hope it will accompany you on your rainy days, as well.

Have a great weekend, loves.

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Sahih International

The Messenger has believed in what was revealed to him from his Lord, and [so have] the believers. All of them have believed in Allah and His angels and His books and His messengers, [saying], "We make no distinction between any of His messengers." And they say, "We hear and we obey. [We seek] Your forgiveness, our Lord, and to You is the [final] destination."

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Sahih International

Allah does not charge a soul except [with that within] its capacity. It will have [the consequence of] what [good] it has gained, and it will bear [the consequence of] what [evil] it has earned. "Our Lord, do not impose blame upon us if we have forgotten or erred. Our Lord, and lay not upon us a burden like that which You laid upon those before us. Our Lord, and burden us not with that which we have no ability to bear. And pardon us; and forgive us; and have mercy upon us. You are our protector, so give us victory over the disbelieving people."