curryegg- not just an ordinary blog

You Never Know How Close You Are

2012-01-28T01:56:00.001+08:00

| Nothing could be worse than the fear that one had given up too soon, and left one unexpended effort that might have saved the world.

Jane Addams

P/s: In a nutshell, don’t give up until you have achieved your dreams!

The Journey Has Just Begun

2012-01-16T22:18:00.001+08:00

It’s officially my 3rd week of teaching life, ever since my 2 months of training at IAB, Genting Highlands with other 49 miraculous Teach For Malaysia fellows and amazing training teams. My journey to end the educational inequity has just begun.

It sounds ‘whooaa’ isn’t it?

I am not sure how close am I in achieving this HUGE mission because my biggest concerns now are about myself, my students and my school. Those common worries of mine are often sound like this:

How far have I adapted to the new working environment?
How much have I learned from other experienced teachers?
How effective is my class management?
How much can I make my students learn and understand now just academic lessons, but humanity as well?

My life now is hard, tough and challenging. Well, I’d prepared myself for these ever since I’ve made up my mind to join Teach For Malaysia, last September. I thought, hey. I am still young and I want to do something big, something meaningful and beneficial to the society. Now I get the chance and I am here, working as a 2 years teacher at a secondary school with 100+ staff and 8 classes (35 X 8=280 students).

A photo & photo frame gift from Reid. It is not placed on my working table.
Thank you Reid~

There were ups and downs in my every teaching day, just like any other teacher in any school. I get to understand why my teachers behave and act at certain ways. Also, I am good at predicting reasons behind no-bringing-books-to-class, late for class after recess and the talkative-phenomenal among the students. Guess, my ability now to understand both teachers’ and students’ shoes will help me in facing, dealing and solving some important but neglected issues such as the liveliness in class, effective lesson planning, strategic cultural management and etc.

Just last Friday, I was pretty down because I felt that things that I’d done for the classes in the past 2 weeks were unproductive and meaningless. As my mind was fighting over the down feeling, unexpectedly, a student called me and handed me her artwork. It’s a picture of me. She gave it to me with a smile before leaving the class.

It’s just simply melted my heart though at this point, I still don’t know what I’ve done for her or them. Somehow, my student’s effort has motivated me to work harder and smarter for them, for my family and for myself despite the hardships. I know I will because I want and I can.

I don’t know where I am now but I know where I am leading to – to embrace one’s uniqueness and transform one’s life (including mine) to the better.

The 25 Smiling Faces at SMK Ampang Pecah

2012-01-10T02:56:00.001+08:00

I miss all the 25 smiling faces at SMK Ampang Pecah.

My mind kept on thinking about them although it has been almost a month I left the school. Teach For Malaysia organized a summer school program called Kem Skorlah on last Nov-Dec 2011. We, the 50 fellows were divided into 2 groups and I was being placed at SMK Ampang Pecah for 4 weeks, teaching Mathematic for Form 4.

I would say that I am blessed to be placed at this school with my other 25 lovely kids. Oopss, i mean students :)

They were energetic, funny, sincere and most importantly forgiving. I must admit that I did a lot of mistakes back in Kem Skorlah including called wrong names, unstructured Bahasa Melayu and making funny voice, yet they laughed, forgive my mistake and move on… *touched*

I am not an experienced teacher but they are willing to give me a chance/chances to try, learn and execute my crazy plans. Lol.. Could you imagine that a Maths teacher bring a Panda muppet and taught Straight Line (y=mx+c) in class? Or opened the Angry Bird games in the beginning of the class, handing out Angry bird question and taught Angle Elevation and Deviation? Or telling The Smurf story to teach 3 Dimension and Planes chapter?

If you were there, I believe you would laughed at my students’ reactions. Hahaha.. now I couldn’t stop smiling while recalling their surprised faces. Probably they have never experience a Maths teacher bringing all those crazy concept… they were like… @_@

Oh my.
I miss them and I wonder how are they at the moment. School has started and they are now officially a Form 5 students. I hope they will work hard and try their best in achieving their dreams. Remember your dreams?

My dear A5 students,
If you are reading this, remember that teacher is always here praying for your success. Pay attention in class. If there are areas that you don’t understand, seek for your teacher’s or friends’ help. You can drop me an email or comment in this blog if you need any help. For now, enjoy your school. Miss you and remember our Tepuk A5 ^_^

Again, I Want, I Can, I Will.

Say Hello To Cikgu Telur

2012-01-04T01:23:00.001+08:00

The time has arrived.
Ms Telur is going to teach in another few hours.

OMG!
I am so nervous yet excited… >.<!

I have done shopping for my new writing tools. Stuff like 6 different color of refillable marker pens, timer, manila card, stick-it-notes, stamps and etc.

Besides, I have planned my lesson planning for 3 different classes which I will attend later. However, there are still doubts of executing the plan because as I have been informed, there will be an orientation session for the new Form 1 students. Indirectly, it means no class will be conducted until it ends.

Well, for the safe side, I just prepare whatever I can, just in case the students come in and I have something to do with them.

Oh dear!
I should be sleeping by now but my heart is pumping really fast. My nervousness can be sensed by looking at how unorganized this post is blogged. Well, I can’t care much at this moment. I just want a corner to do self-therapy so that it allows me to sleep better after this.

Btw, I am a Form 1 teacher for 3 Mathematic classes and 5 Civic classes.
Let see what I will do for my 8 wonderful classes in the first week.

Before ending this post, I would like to share a few photos which were taken secretly by my instructor, Reid back in SMK Ampang Pecah. Thank you Reid for all these memorable photos. I can feel and listen to our passions in fighting for inequity in education - I Want, I Can, I Will.

One day, all children in Malaysia will have the opportunity to attain an excellent education. Yes, they will.. *hopeful*

P/s: Readers, please bless me with your encouragement and positive vibes. I need all of them. Thank you~

The Long-Lost Eggie

2011-12-21T12:17:00.001+08:00

I haven’t blogged for nearly 2 MONTHS!
How possible can it be? I have never abandoned my blog these long.
Are you guys still with me?

No wonder I feel something is missing until I return to my blog and start blogging on this very new page. I miss this quiet corner of mine. I haven’t done a proper reflective moment ever since I participated in this Teach For Malaysia training program at Institute Aminuddin Baki at Genting since early November. And now, I am longing for one.

My life is now on a fast lane. Learning and executing what had been learned need to be done at certain period of time (before next year). Everything is planned accordingly in an effective and meaningful way. It is a hectic schedule and I am under pressure and stress. But the good thing is, we have fun time that can balance up our fast lane life here.

Besides, the power of collaboration among the 50 fellows here are incredibly awesome. We helped and support each other every morning, every afternoon, every night and midnight since the first day of TFM training. Not to forget, the supportive TFM teams behind the scene in trying very hard to keep our lives here as happy as possible.

A photo of me with Brian who is sitting beside me (now). Similar shirt!

I would love to write more but it is 12pm now.
I should keep my Cultural Management and Lesson Plan going before next class at 1.30pm. We were being informed that there will be a surprise party tonight and it will be the most unforgettable moment for all of us. Emm… I wonder what could it be?

Well, I shall check it out later.

P/s: Christmas is around the corner and I had already received a present from my secret Santa. He/She says I am a good girl and thus, I have a present. Weeeeeeeeeeee…..
However, I still don’t know who my Santa is… @_@

P/s/s: Btw, my camera has been robbed. No more latest photos at the moment T.T

Where Is Curryegg Lately?

2011-11-08T02:29:00.001+08:00

I have always wanted to make a ‘grand opening’ for this new chapter of my life by finding the BEST inspiration, BEST time and BEST words to share this piece of amazing news. I took almost a month and it seems that BEST thing of never will happen when action is not taken. So, I screwed my perfectionism (again) and bringing out my adventurer side instead.

So, this is my news my dear readers. I know you have been waiting for my blog update for a very long time. I truly understand. But then, I don’t know how to deliver my excitement in words now. Probably, a long drum roll makes the trick?

*drum roll*
*drum roll*
*trumpet*

Ladies and gentlemen, Ms curryegg would like to announce that she is one of the 50 fellows for Teach For Malaysia and she is currently participating in the 2 months training at the Institut Aminuddin Baki, Genting Highlands. She has just completed her first week of training and feel really excited for the second one!

Yes. You read me correctly. I am joining Teach For Malaysia and I will be a secondary school teacher soon. I know what is playing in your mind now. You must be questioning, “What is Teach For Malaysia?”, “Why a teacher?”, “What does a fellow in Teach For Malaysia do?”, “Why not be a counselor?”

I will write more in the coming post on what is Teach For Malaysia and why I Teach For Malaysia as I need to sleep by now. There is an important meeting in the morning and I have to get a good rest.

You might be interested to find out more what is Teach For Malaysia before I share more on the reasons why I join this 2 years program.

See you :)

Love For My First Bootz

2011-10-29T00:21:00.001+08:00

Lately, I have this mood for boots.
Well, I should say I’ve fallen in love with boots ever since my first visit to Perth, Australia during in the month of July. ~~Gosh! This has reminded me about my long postponed plan to blog about my Perth trip. Oh my..~~ =X

My mum got me these boots for $19 (after discount). Thank you mum! It costs about RM62.70 in Malaysia ringgit. I don’t know are they consider cheap but my friends said they are! So, I assume I got a good bargain for a high heel with fish mouth booths! ^^

That is when my interest for boots begin and I like seeing myself wearing one because firstly, it makes me look classic. Next, I feel myself look stylish. Lastly, it make my feet look smaller (I have square, wide feet).

Another thing is, I start to learn wearing lagging. I know I might sound funny to some of you. Frankly, I didn’t dare to wear lagging because it looks somehow weird when seeing a pair of black, tight object from the above. Don’t you feel weird too? Anyway, it matches well with a pair of boots. I learned this fashion from the Australian. Guess, I can call this cross-culture ;)

Seriously, they look great in their winter outfit! I mean the Australian! I love their dress up which is simple and stylist. Too bad, I can’t wear that in Malaysia or I will be killed by those thick and warm material under the hot sun~

I love my first boots from my mum. Again, thank you mummy =D

P/s: Although high heel boots are pretty, they can be very painful to your leg muscles when they’re wore in a long period of time. They say, no pain no gain – which is true =/

*Update*
Sorry for my wrong calculation. The boots price has been corrected. It’s about RM62.70.

The Gan Cheongness Is Attacking Me

2011-10-27T10:30:00.001+08:00

I don’t know why but I really feel gan cheong.
In case if you don’t understand Cantonese, it means nervous.
I can’t help, seriously.

I woke up feeling nervous since morning till now. I have no idea why I even wanna blog about it. Guess, this is one of the good way to release my stress.

Better prepared myself with all the long to-do-list. I need to get them ready before the institute which is this coming Sunday! SUNDAYY!!!

*run around*

Cute Earring Collection

2011-10-24T12:03:00.001+08:00

Earring is one of my favorite types of collection and I owned quite a number of them. I find wearing earring is one of the fun ways in expressing the uniqueness of one’s personality. Sometimes, a personality is shown out when wearing the right type of earring even with a plain tee or singlet.

For me, EARRINGS DO WONDERS!

Normally, I will prone to looking for unique and medium-size of earring. I like my stand out earrings but not too dramatic.

Of late, I found these set of earrings at a mini shop and feel proud and happy in owning them. I love the color and the of the design. I mean those 3 set which are still hanging on the brown cardboards. My short bob hair suits these type of earring at the moment but not sure how will it look like when my hair is getting longer.

At normal days, I like wearing button earrings.

Aren’t them cute?
I am really happy wearing them ever since I bought them.
Weeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee… I feel so lucky =D

How about you?
Do you like collecting earring too? If yes, any particular color, size or design that you fall most for?

P/s: Oh ya, the 3 pairs of earring which I bought cost only RM10. Good deal!

Masterpiece On Water Bottle

2011-10-21T11:22:00.001+08:00

A month ago, Calvin and I attended an art exhibition at Central Market, Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia) after receiving an invitation from Yi Sin. She is Calvin’s friend who is passionate and love making art.

I have been hearing a lot about her from Calvin and I am glad that we had finally met for the very first time in the exhibition itself. This art exhibition is organized by BROS and the theme is called ‘Cheers 2 Art’.

Seriously, I am always a fans of BROS! I love their bottle design.

What actually attracted me to attend this art exhibition is the involvement of our young local artist, besides Yi Sin herself. I always have the heart for art although I am not in the path for it. For me, art is a way for the creators to express themselves with the use of various mediums. Isn’t it wonderful?

I like this idea :)

And here are the 8 masterpieces which are printed on BROS BPA free water bottles together with their canvas and short description on each work.

Among all the 8 masterpieces, I personally, without bias like Yi Sin’s work on polar bear. The work is simple but very meaningful.

The message which Yi Sin want to send out is our polar bears are enduring the global warming effect. Their habitat is affected. The article stated that it took 9 days for a polar bear to search for ice – which is an alarming message to all of us.

Instantly, it reminded me about the movie ‘The Day After Tomorrow’ where the whole world is flooded with water. Isn’t it scary? What have we done? And how can we save ourselves and future generation? All those studies from Biology and Chemistry came back to me and I remembered. Gosh! I don’t know what else I can do other than using reusable water bottle, recycle bag and reduce the use of electricity.

So, this is Yi Sin with her polar bear work.

She is such a lovely and friendly girl.
Also, she has a very creative mind! =D

During in the exhibition, Yi Sin personally explained and showed her work to both of us (so lucky!). She told us that besides the idea of the polar bear skating on ice (which I think is already very creative and inspiring!), her design is very special because you can see a 3D effect at the back of the bottle.

Front Back

What you will notice is that you can see a polar bear swimming in front of the ice berg with fishes both in front and back perspectives. She told us that this is a new concept which she brought out and BROS company really impressed with the idea. WOW!

She is even the pioneer of this idea! Good job girl!

You can find her at her website. Check out her work on children books at www.byyisin.com

This was Yi Sin’s booth:

I even received a small, thoughtful gift from her. Ahhhwwww.. So cute~

Here are other works done by other ‘Da Vinci’. They are all good too!
I am really impressed and thrilled with their works. Oh gosh.

Aren’t they beautiful?
I can instantly feel that water that filled in either these bottles taste better. LOL! What am I taking about. Probably you can gain inspiration in each drop you consume. wte =P

Well, I must say, the idea of this exhibition is wonderful and impactful. Maybe, not many care for the message of the global warming effect but I do. Besides, the idea of immortalized all these messages onto attractive and reusable water bottle is brilliant. User will be reminded and encouraged to make the world a better place from time to time. Lol.. suddenly I sound so noble – which is good :)

Probably due to the above reason (besides showing our support for Yi Sin’s work), Calvin bought me the pink polar bear bottle! Frankly, I love this sweet pink from BROS so much. The color of white, brown and pink blended so well and it gives this sweet girlish feeling. Thank you dear! I love it soooooooooooooo much <3

We are showing the support for our Young Malaysian Independent Artist *proud*

RM16 per bottle. Special price for visitor who went to the exhibition.

Yi Sin’s signature! So cool!

I think, this concept is brilliant and it is a good effort in sending message to the society about the global warming effect. Also, this is a good way in supporting our local artists’ work. Let’s do something about this.

P/s: I heard, these bottles are limited edition. Probably you can still get them in the selected shopping malls. If you do, please buy and support them! After all, they are too adorable to be missed out, right? ;)

P/s/s: There is a 2nd part of this exhibition. More craft work from other artists in the coming blog post… :)

P/s/s/s: Do share this post around with your friends as I think it’s one of the good ways to support our young local artists. They need more exposure for their hardworks.

Which Comment Systems Better?

2011-10-20T00:27:00.001+08:00

Dear readers,

Lately I’m playing with the blog commenting system but not aware that I’ve changed the setting. Before I thought of correcting my mistake, I found a number of quality comments where my readers responded to the question with their personal sharing. I am really happy and excited with comments I received lately from you!

I am serious!!! =D

It’s been a year I’ve not received much comments and I thought you don’t love me anymore… *sob*

However, from this incident, I realize I might be wrong (please prove me wrong and tell me you still love me) *desperate mode*

I remembered that there were several times I received complain from my friends that they couldn’t comment because the system failed to post their writing. After several attempts, they gave up and chose to sms or send me message in FB instead.

I don’t know if this happen to you too? I really wish to know so that I have an idea on how to handle this matter. So here is the question. Which comment system below is better?

1. Disqus

Example of this system: Have I Made You Smiled?

2. Blogger

Example of this system: An Effort Exchanged A Smile

Here is a poll to on these 2 systems and I really hope to hear from you. Please help me to figure out which one I should use in the coming blog posts. I am really undecided at the moment.

I can’t deny that each of your response mean a heaven to me although people keep on saying, “blog for yourself and not for others”. Well, yes and no for certain extend. For me, blog works both sides and the experience is more meaningful when there is ‘give and take’ situation.

Life Is Short But Worth It

2011-10-19T01:41:00.001+08:00

Life is short but live it meaningfully. That’s what has been one of my favorite quotes whenever I face challenges.

Sometimes I am thinking:

Why regrets when you have made a decision?
Why love those who don’t know how to treat you right?
Why hate life when there are various ways to love?
Why not pursuing dreams and do things you love when life is so short?
Why limit yourself when you can do better?

Why, and why?

An Effort Exchanged A Smile

2011-10-18T02:47:00.001+08:00

When I was young, I wish to have a grandfather.

I wish that he will play with me, buy me candy, hug and throw me in the air, then ~~of course~~ catches me, safe me when I’m being beaten, pat me to sleep and hear me squeaking.

But then, I never had a grandfather. Unfortunately. I mean, I do have but they left before I could speak ‘gong gong’ (means grandpa in Chinese). For all this while, I have this perception that grandpa must be looking like Santa Clause or ‘Chai Sen Yeh’ ( Chinese’s God of wealth) which now to think about it is kinda ridiculous. Or.. maybe he looks like Albert Einstein? Lol.

This has reminded me of my play on chicken eggs. Link.

Guess God must have heard my little secret and borrow me Calv’s grandpa where I could make and give birthday present to him, for a grandpa. It is just a simple card and I never expect for any return.

There are Chinese characters which wrongly written. Forgive a banana who doesn’t know the right way to ~~copy~~ write >.<

Well, I received return and it’s a very warm and happy smile from him. The moment is so wonderful and even after 2 months, I am still happy with what I’ve done for gong gong. I feel lucky =)

Do you ever have the chance to play with your grandfather?
What are the experiences that your grandfather gives you?

I am curious to know.

Have I Made You Smile?

2011-10-13T11:00:00.001+08:00

They say, nothing beats a beautiful smile.
I say, nothing beats a funny look.

Often, I don’t like to admit that I have cute or funny face because that adjectives don't impress me. Somehow, after 24 years of makan nasi dan membesar, I have to agree that.... I do have a very funny that can make people smile.

Playing with my camera's smile detection function. It will automatically snap when it detects smile. I think i look like a retarded person more. Oh my.

I grow up and have this new perception that, life doesn't have to be all serious and dull. Ones should relax and add in some humors in themselves as I believe we have enough stress in everyday life. Bringing out the playful side once in awhile even at the age of an adult (who cares!?) wouldn't do harm. In fact, it allows the happy hormone regulate the body - and you will become more cheerful!

So my question now is, have my funny face made you smile?

Birthday Celebration At Zen Japanese Restaurant, Sunway Pyramid.

2011-10-11T21:03:00.001+08:00

It has been one and a half month ever since my 24th birthday. I would say, I have a very fulfilling and fabulous birthday celebrations and it happened for 5 times before it last. My first celebration was with June and Letchu. Second with Irene. Third with Calv. Forth with May. Fifth with the surprising groups.

It sounds crazy, doesn’t it?
5 times and they were all well-spent.

This happened when everyone is getting busy with work, unlike me… :(
Anyway, I am glad to have spent one Friday night with Mamak this year as most of the time, we skipped the chance.

Mamak or who known as May brought me to Zen Japanese Restaurant at Sunway Pyramid for authentic Japanese food – especially for raw salmon! Roooooarrrrr!!

My favorite bowl of raw salmon with avocado and salad. They all mix well, surprisingly! =D

Yum… ^^

Seriously, I have fallen in love with Zen’s food. They are all fresh and taste really awesome! Their salmon sashimi is so thick with beautiful texture. Each bite is so springy and you will find your tongue playing with the food before they melt on your taste bud! Oh my… I miss my time at Zen Japanese Restaurant and I swear with all my heart!

I like the ambience here. They have this Japanese feels. Unique and cozy. But kinda packed when the crowds is too big.

This is Mamak who will appear occasionally in my blog.. ^^

Simply gorgeous~

We purposely dressed gorgeously that night in order to celebrate our day together besides for my birthday. We believe that dressing up is one of the ways we appreciate, respect and love ourselves. Also, it’s a way to boost up our confident as a lady (ah! I’m a lady by now. Call me beautiful and not cute k? tqvm >.< )

We were lucky to have one of the waiters to help us snap a picture during billing (that’s one of the best time to get help. lol..)

I always say that, happy time passes fast. You wouldn’t aware the night ended so fast when you spent quality time together with your loved one, including your buddy. And I still agree with my statement.

Lights decoration during Hari Raya at Sunway Pyramid

A very unique advertisement by M.A.C

Portraits style. Creative.

We both actually very reluctant to end our night that soon because it’s hard to meet each other. Thus, we spent time wandering around the mall and continued chit chatting although all shops were already closed. Like usual, we did some photo shooting sessions in the mall. She always says, “This is so curryegg” and often, I just smiled naughtily at her… =P

The results are good and I love what we got.

Mamak

CurryEgg

I love my heels seriously! I have never owned any gorgeous heels before this because mum discouraged me to have one. She said it will hurt the legs. Well, I do agree but still, girl needs at least one pair, right?

Mamak, I know you have heard this thousands of time. Somehow, I worry you will forget. Thus, let me berleter sekali lagi. Thank you for the treat (I know it’s pricey!) and time you’ve reserved for me. I am really happy till now. Recalling those wonderful moments and blogging them now curve a smile on my face. You’re truly an angelic friend I have. Thank you for being my friends. I love you for whoever you are (and I am sure you know it).

*wink*

Looking forward for more quality time with you.
Love you!

P/s: Zen Japanese Restaurant serves quality food with good service. Wish to go there again but then, it’s kinda pricey. Ahhhwww… I miss their fatty raw salmon!

*update* This post has been updated with 4 additional photos.

Will You?

2011-10-11T12:25:00.001+08:00

Will you still love the way I am if one day, I changed?

Will you still visit my blog if one day, I don’t blog as frequent as I used to?
Will you still read if one day, I changed topics that I used to write?
Will you still remember me if one day, curryegg is no longer existing? (maybe she has turned into currychicken? curryostrich? curryfish? currypanda? )
Will you still response if one day, I started writing crap like this?

Will you?
And will you?

Moon Dog In Kuala Lumpur

2011-10-10T02:38:00.001+08:00

The view is spectacular!!!
OH MY GOD!

I will never ever forget this moment of seeing a Moon Dog (or known as paraselene) with my own eyes. Never! It’s such a holly phenomenon that last almost half an hour at my place. I was stunned with the beauty of the Moon Dog phenomena.

Calv called me about 11.50pm, asking me to go out and watch the moon. I was actually watching youtube on a shared clip before making myself to walk out from the house. I was in a questioned mode, wondering what kind of surprises the Moon will bring me again?

Together, we saw this:

10-10-2011 (at Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia)

In another 15 minutes time, a plane passed by and I got this ‘super extraordinary’ scenery. Unique~

Notes: Photos taken using my pink-eggie (compact camera)
This is called, ‘Rarer than the rare’

And this makes me wanting to sing, “can we pretend that airplane in the night sky like shooting star?” Lol..

Calv has checked information about this phenomena online and he learned that it’s called Moon Dog (almost similar to Moon Ring) from Wikipedia. It stated that it’s an extremely rare phenomenon and it doesn’t happen often (rarer than sun dog). For more info, click wikipedia.

It might be called as a Moon Right. After some researches and readings, I still believe it’s not Moon Ring, but Moon Dog because it’s not exactly a full moon.

Anyway, I feel extremely lucky to be able to witnessed the Moon Dog in my housing area and snapped some photos, while talking on the phone with Calv. The experience is marvelous and romantic. What a goddess moon.

This has reminded me about my previous discovery on the Smiley Moon. That too, happened once in a live time. I am fortunate to be able to get good picture with my same camera. Head over here for the smiley moon post.

1-12-2008

So, have you seen it? Do you able to capture it with your camera? There is a friend who managed to capture with rainbow effect. So unique.

Hope you feel as lucky as I am with the best photos I could take =)

P/s: Moon always gives me surprises with her wonders <3

Love At The Door

2011-10-04T11:01:00.001+08:00

Do you know what is the best gift from a lecturer who has taught me for 3 years?
Or should I ask, what will make me touched and cried for the rest of my life?

Lol. It seems like I am exaggerate my words but then, that’s how I feel when I saw THIS:

Closer view:

It was last Thursday, when Dibah visited the faculty and thought of giving Dr. Diana (The Queen) a visit at her office. Unfortunately, she was not there and we thought of leaving the place and visit her another day. Before we left, to our surprise, we spotted our name on her office door!

Ahhhwww… isn’t she lovely? She remembered us and make her greeting at the door. Seriously, I have never thought of a lecturer will have the time and heart to make this effort. It’s just… so.. touching. I can feel my existence in her heart and, be remembered and appreciated. That’s why, all my coursemates and I love her so much because she did so many things for us in the past 3 years, not just love on the door but on food, paper, movie and her teaching as well.

I am her supervisee for academic research (thesis). That’s why my name is there =D

I will remember our Pizza Day, Movie Day, Art Day and Make-Up Day for the rest of my life. She is so generous, loving and wise. I bet, everyone in the class, even my junior agree with my statement. I am telling the truth~

I promise myself that one day, when I am an educator, I want to care and love my students like my Dr. Diana. Never be ego so that I am able to understand and learn from my students. That’s a piggy promise I make for myself.

Thank you Dr. Diana for your love not just at the door but in the air too. I will see you on the stage tomorrow!

P/s: My convocation is tomorrow afternoon at UM. I can’t believe that the BIG DAY is arriving! If you can come, do let me know =D

Love,
curryegg

Perfectionism Kills Inspiration

2011-10-03T11:20:00.001+08:00

I was always… and still always…

a perfectionist who have the tendency to do and finish work, perfectly perfect.
I would rather delay my time in the search for the ‘Best Inspiration’, and then only commit in doing the work.

It happens to my coursework, assignment, housework, making presents and even when it comes to blogging. I find it hard to start a task especially those which I am fully passionately, committed and excited with. Often, I realize I have high hope to make the best work which end up consuming lengthy hours to complete or worse, not doing at all – if inspiration doesn’t hit me. This perfectionism frustrates especially when I procrastinate my work and most of the time, finish at the very last minute.

In every last minute work which is imperfectly done, I thought I’d learned my lesson. Every time, I swear and promise to start my future task earlier so that I can complete in time. Well, when you read such ranting post, it’s obvious that my attempt failed… =(

I came across with an article, discussing about creative people often procrastinate and delay their work because they want to find the best idea. Perfectionism is a common trait among creative people – and I cheerfully put myself into the group which give me an excuse for my delayed work. Hey, I want the best work ma. So I find the best idea and finish later lor.

However, I don’t feel myself productive at all. Looking at my blog achieve for example, I don’t write much blog entries over the years. I realize I wrote the most in the year of 2008 and it reduces throughout the years –

Years	Number of blog posts
2007	163
2008	271
2009	181
2010	119
2011	*50

Gosh! I only make 50 egg entries so far for this year? o_O

It might due to my buziness and other personal reasons for the reduced number of blog posts. But, I also realize that the other reason is due to my perfectionism. I don’t write if I can’t find the best inspiration. I don’t write if I don’t have the best list of photos. I don’t blog until the so and so reason.

Well, I find it hard to simply publish unorganized blog post especially when I have more readers now. I will carefully write and insert photos in each of my blog and it ended up take a very long time. I have this feeling of not wanting to loss my readers (you) with my ‘imperfect post’ for example unedited photos, unorganized thoughts and etc. Thus, there is a tendency to impress my reader more than myself.

I don’t mean that carefully organized writing is not good. Of course, I want quality work. Just, I don’t like the idea of losing my spontaneous side to complexity. This awareness was formed when I visited a bookstore yesterday and I came across with this good book on ‘Creative Writing’. There is a page which written,

Postpone perfection

Perfectionism can kill writing, cutting it dead as it tries to emerge. There is a time for perfecting writing and it is not at the outset. But what if you find it painful to produce clumsy, ineffective lines or sentences? You should understand that all writers, even the most experienced, can write badly. The gift of writing is a power that flickers – everyone has mediocre days as well as magical. Try to cultivate an attitude of curiosity.

Book: Creative Writing – Edited by Linda Anderson (page 21)

I find a strong connection with the above discussion. It’s true. Perfectionism kill my joy of writing sometimes. I was thinking, why perfectionism occur in me? I shared similar discussion in my last post on the perfectionist nerd. Is it because I am a Virgo? Or is it because I am a right-brainer? Or is it because I am being taught so?

It didn’t take me long to come up with a conclusion that, I am afraid to fail. I am afraid to portray a silly side of me. I am afraid to be judged. And, I am afraid to be seen as useless. Thus, I always want to show a stronger intellectual side of me. Probably, this also affects my blogging style – write a Grade A post or don’t write at all… =_=

I do admit that I have this perfectionist trait in me. The good news is, it can be balanced up as we aged – said Dr. Diana. And I want to cultivate my magical side through spontaneous writing starting by today. I used to blog very freely back in year 2007-2008 (can be seen on the above table).

I do think that I don’t have to show my perfectionist side in my own personal blog. After all, this is not a professional website. I am allow to make mistake, silly writing and uninteresting post, right?

A random photo. This was taken yesterday after my bookstore visit. Met my birdies for maybe the first and last mall gathering. They are Shu Huan and Adibah (Brunei).

Showing the silly sides of me (us) XD

It’s time for a change in curryegg. Don’t ask me what will it be because, I don’t know.. yet.. Let’s hope for more eggs in future =P

P/s: Wow, I have wrote a lengthy post in a short time without me realizing it. It works! =D

Taio Cruz, Arthur and Us.

2011-09-30T13:32:00.001+08:00

Before writing any further, there is something I wanna confess – that.. that.. Initially, I didn’t know who Taio Cruz is. Ya, like seriously serious!

Until, one fine morning after I read his name on the Arthur’s Day poster, I took the initiative to google his name to learn about him. To my ultimate surprise, I’d actually known him for quite some times. He is the one who sang ‘Break My Heart’, ‘Higher’ and ‘Dynamite’!!!

He' is Taio Cruz!

Oh dear. How could I not knowing him? Those songs are my favorite.

But of course, I know who he is by now since I am writing about Taio Cruz who came to Arthur’s Day event in Malaysia with photos and video clip somemore. Sorry to Taio Cruz’s fans who get annoyed with my previous ignorance (sorry Calv..) --- *knock my head*

There was a competition running on at Churp Churp and I am lucky enough to win a pair of exclusive tickets from them (thank you so much!) to the Arthur’s Day 2011 at KL Speed City last Friday (23rd Sept 2011). I still remember how Calv screamed in happy tears when I told him about the tickets on the phone. He was so excited and thrilled with the idea of meeting his favorite artist: Taio Cruz. That moment was when I learned that my boyfriend’s is a fans, A BIG FANS of Teh O Ice. Em.. I mean, Taio Cruz… =P

Taken with my phone the moment I got the tickets – thus the blur.

We went to the event in black, like what it stated on the dress code. Haha.. well we did some preparation days before the event like finding the best, black attire (since both of us don’t own much black garments), learned about the artists who will perform for the event and also the location. Calv was the one who did most of the research job as he wants both us to enjoy the event to the fullest. Ahhww… he’s so considerate :)

So, here are some of the photos during the event. By the way, the crowds were crazy! It was reported by the Hitz.fm crew that there were almost 20K people turned up for the event.

7.30pm

I didn’t aware that Kate (blogger) was standing just next to me as the place suddenly ran out of electrical supply and it was dark, until I transferred all the photos to my computer.

Calv acting cute =P

He called himself villain in FB. Lol..

Me and Arthur’s Day.

The 20K crowds.

Seriously, the Arthur’s Day celebration in Kuala Lumpur was phenomenal! I couldn’t resist myself from singing and dancing my heart out when the place was filled with R&B music, good sound system and professional MC from hitz.fm. Just that, my heels made all the moves hard to be made. I actually regretted for wearing my black with leopard prints heels to the event. I thought my legs can support my body from 7pm – 1am and I was wrong, terribly wrong. That’s where mum and bf’s advices make sense.

The concert started with the play from the DJs. Warm up.

What to do, heels have always become an icon for pretty look since many centuries ago. It has been conditioned into our minds. I’ve learned my lesson: Never wear heels to concert. Anyway, all we gotta do now is to appreciate this post and enjoy all the photos and video I took – for the worth of the numbness and muscles pain of my legs. what the egg =P

Here are some of the R&B artists whom I was able to capture. It is hard for me to snap night photo. So, here are my best shoots.

Besides Taio Cruz who are the main attraction of the event, Mizz Nina, Soler, DJ Skeletor, Prema Yin, Dragon Red and Kartel were there. They were awesome and bring ‘hotness’ to that night.

Calv and I both agree that Soler are handsome and charming, while Mizz Nina is hot with her voice and dance. Our hearts were stolen by them with their talents.

Mizz Nina’s performance – Sexy is my name. Sexy is my name

She was being interviewed by the hitz.fm DJs after the performance.

Soler! I hope I can take a closer photo of them.

We cam-whore once in a while in between of performances.

This was when Taio Cruz almost appear – about 11.30pm
My legs almost wanna break liao.. :(

Guess, he doesn’t want everyone to suffer so he finally appear from underground. Lol..

The event ended after Taio Cruz performed his last song, Dynamite. Everyone was shouting his name, asking for anchor but… no more jor. It ended with all the artists lining on stage.

Calv who was already exhausted and dehydrated at the end of the performance. Same case with me. I was so thirsty and dying for water.

We couldn’t walked out from the crowds during the event because we were standing very close to the stage. We didn’t want to loss our perfect view, plus it’s already hard to move out. So, both of us fast for that 6 hours. It’s worth it for Taio Cruz and this video.

Must watch ok? You can feel how lively it was during the event. Everyone was singing together with him – including me! The aura.. it’s marvelous! Enjoy the clip =)

I am glad to see him as excited as I was. It was our first time attending live music event together and the experience was superb!

P/s: Again, thanks Churp Churp and Calv for the wonderful and memorable day~

P/s/s: I believe the real reason of my pure enjoyment of this event is because of the person I go with :)

Be A Rainbow Babe~

2011-09-27T12:11:00.001+08:00

Try to be a rainbow in someone’s cloud because when you did, you’ll be the one who actually own the rainbow.

When you did, you will be the one who understand the beauty of a colorful rainbow by making the effort in creating one and sharing it with others. Probably, this is what they say you gain what you give. It takes me years to understand this as I was very much a self-centered person back then who didn’t value the meaning of ‘sharing’.

One of my favorite photos from the album ‘Photo of The Day’ @Facebook.

Worse, I didn’t even know how to share a smile where most of the time, I was putting serious or grumpy face when I was a kid. Well, you can’t blame me when I was born as the only child in the family. It’s so hard not to value my ‘property’ when my parents hardly afford me new toys. Well, I don’t come from a wealthy family. Plus, there is no Facebook, Twitter or Google+ back then where ‘sharing buttons’ were unavailable. Lame =P

It’s amazing on how life experiences can change and shape a person’s perspective. As I am growing up, I perceive and learn things differently from people around me. I learn that to gain something, you have to genuinely create the intention and share it around. For instance, if you want happiness, create the happy mood in yourself and make the afford of creating jokes or simply smiles to others. If you want appreciation, learn to appreciate others. If you want money, work first.

Of course, this doesn’t come in an exact equation but take it as a general idea which I’ve recently discovered.

They are my cousins by the way =)

So, begin your day with a smile(s). You never know that how a simple smile can effortlessly lift up someone’s day, and even your own too. For sure, that someone includes me.

Smile to me in my comment box like this ------------> =)))

Notes: This photo was taken last year but edited recently with a quote from Dr. Maya Angelou. A very meaningful quote indeed. Love it so much.

Surprising Surprises By The Surprising Team – 4th Birthday!

2011-09-22T22:17:00.001+08:00

Garden at Sunway Pyramid has always be my favorite spot for romantic ambience and good food with friends. I love their food especially carbonara spaghetti and grilled chicken. I used to go there for evening hang out with friends – well not too often. Just went there for thrice.

However, it has never be in my wildest dream that I will be thrown a surprise birthday celebration at Garden Lifestyle Store and Cafe at Sunway Pyramid by a group of my closed friends in my 4th visit. Not even to think of the girls pakat-ing (teamed up) with mine and theirs boyfriends.

Impressive!

Well, I used to be the one who give others surprises. But never thought of I will be ‘cheated’ for weeks (because they had been planning this for almost a month) and blur blur being brought to the place by my boyfriend without being much suspicious. Then, surprised with a birthday song, sang by a group of people from nowhere. You guys rockz! lol..

Congratulation dear all.
You guys have successfully surprised me with all the surprises.

To show my gratitude and appreciation, this post is written to say thank you, xiexie, terima kasih, arigato for everything!

My 4th birthday cake. I am touched. Finally, I got the chance to eat chocolate macaroon. And it’s surprising that I had double eye-lids in this picture! Surprised! Hahaha.. XD

Simply love the environment

I like the color tone of Calv’s mocha drink. It tasted nice too.

My favorite dish. Love their smash potato with the special sauce. The chicken is really tender. Too bad that I was still sick and my taste bud wasn’t as sensitive as before. So, couldn’t really taste 100% of the joy of eating. Anyway, I still enjoyed my food! =D

Calv and I

My birthday cake~

My twinster’s and her bf that kept me going LOL-ed.

After the meal, we did check out another side of this place, which is the outdoor. It surprised me that, this place is actually very huge! I have never been to the outdoor area. It’s so gorgeous! I mean the place, exclude the hot 12pm Malaysia weather.

As usual, we did some ‘photography’ moment. I am thankful that our boyfriends are around and they were willing to take photos for us. Haha… =D

Vincent didn’t stop making funny jokes and caused us all laughed so stupidly. Glad the effect is good. Everyone is smiling brightly here… =D

This place must be a good spot for night view. I shall come here in the evening.

Then I can see this at night. Sunway Lagoon.

Never forget the signature bird cage at Garden.

Simply love this place. It will be even better if all the plants and leaves are real. Ohh.. it will be even better if grapes can be planted here. Then I can self pluck them. Haha.. Good fantasy =P

So, here is the surprise team. Once again, congratulation for the surprising surprises as I am truly surprised by all the surprises. I love my day so much and I am really touched for all the afford in making me smile and laugh.

I love you girls and thank you guys =D

Oh… and not to forget…

The long ticket movies for all of us.
Another surprising tickets that surprisingly come out from June’s bag. Lol..

P/s: May you all be blessed and have a wonderful days ahead. We will meet again on the ‘BIG DAY’.. *wink*

P/s/s: Please make my 4th birthday wishes come true. I know my birthday was over but I have blown the candles.

Count On Me

2011-09-20T09:00:00.000+08:00

I remembered I used to write a lot of friendship post in these 4 years+ of blogging experiences, and I am glad that I can add another gratitude post again for my best buddies.

I always believe that friends come for a reason(s) whether they are sent to cheer up your life, or break your heart into pieces or mend your broken heart – every one of them for sure, is arranged teaching you important lesson about you and life.

I am thankful and grateful that I have a bunch of wonderful friends who are always there for me. This is what I called ‘blessing in disguise’. Thank God for the wonderful presents. I ask no more.

From the left (2011) : May, Bei Shan, June, Me and Shu Huan.

My oldest friend (2011) – Irene and Me

2009 – Jill and Me (National Service friend)

Coursemates (2010) – From the left: Suet Wei, Angel, June, Aileen, Rani, Jane, Me, Lakshum, Shu Huan and Kit Yen.

Coursemate (2010) – From the left: Ain, Me, Bei Shan, Ilyana and Adibah.

Notes: Not to forget YOU too =)

Here is my dedication to all my best buddies who have gone through ups and downs with me throughout the years. You guys rockz and I love you so much. Please stay and keep in touch alright? =)

A song for you, my dear angelic friends:

Count On Me – Bruno Mars.

If you ever find yourself stuck in the middle of the sea
I'll sail the world to find you
If you ever find yourself lost in the dark and you can't see
I'll be the light to guide you
Find out what we're made of
When we are called to help our friends in need.

You can count on me like one, two, three, I'll be there
And I know when I'm needed
I can count on you like four, three, two, and you'll be there
'Cause that's what friends are supposed to do.

If you toss and you turn and you just can't fall asleep
I'll sing a song beside you
And if you ever forget how much you really mean to me
Everyday I will remind you
Find out what we're made of
When we are called to help our friends in need.

You can count on me like one, two, three, I'll be there
And I know when I'm needed
I can count on you like four, three, two, and you'll be there
'Cause that's what friends are supposed to do.

You'll always have my shoulder when you cry.
I'll never let go, never say goodbye
You know you can count on me like one, two, three, I'll be there
And I know when I'm needed
I can count on you like four, three, two, and you'll be there

'Cause that's what friends are supposed to do
You can count on me 'cause I can count on you.

P/s: I love you my dear friends. Muacks =D

Eh! Cat On Wheel?

2011-09-17T01:56:00.001+08:00

It was just a week ago when my family and I walked out from the house before my cousin brother, William shouted, “Look! Look! There…”

Instantly, all of us turned our heads to the direction he pointed and we found this:

It’s a cat hiding on a lorry’s wheel.
Immediately all of us went LOL (laugh-out-out) and continued our attempt to the car.

However, I turned back while rummaging for my camera in my handbag and I could still hear myself laughing at the funny cat. I snapped a few photos before making the move to our car. As I sank myself onto the car seat, I detected stinky smell in the car. And…. it was from my sandals.

I must have accidentally STEPPED ON DOG’s DROPPING while snapping the cat!
Ehhhhhwwww…..

Well, it doesn’t end there. I got fever at night. Dad said, I must have got too frighten with the dog’s shit. I think, it must have been the cat’s cursing – cos I was laughing at it. LOL.

Anyway, I have recovered. Again, what a cute cat on wheel. I bet it must be doing meditation at that moment.. =P

Love Comes When You’re Ready

2011-09-15T16:44:00.001+08:00

I was touched listening to my friend’s latest update last night, about her new love journey with a potential guy.

She cheerfully said,
“Kelly, I am really happy. Really.”

Well, I am not just happy because of her discovery of new love story, but also to be able to see her smile and getting excited again for love and life. There is nothing happier than knowing my friend is enjoying her life and counting blessing each day. That’s such a wonderful news!

It reminds me of my own experiences on the decision of finding my own happiness again, not just solely focusing on the search of Mr. Right of course. Before Mr. Right, you have to be Mrs Right, meaning that you have to focus and nurture your own needs first before giving your attention to others. (Related post: Experiences Are The Best Teacher)

That explains in Abraham Maslow’s Theory on his Maslow Hierarchy of Needs where we need to fulfill the most fundamental levels of needs before aiming for a higher stage (from psychological needs, safety, love and belonging, esteem and self-actualization). If the basic is not nurtured and fulfilled, the feeling of emptiness and lost take place and you will be demotivated in reaching higher goals. That’s why in Counseling, client is encouraged to understand and work on his/hers needs before focusing on the bigger issue.

Cherish every single moment you have. Owned it.

That’s what I can see in my friend now. She has stopped her attempt in searching for the right guy. Instead, she left her old scars behind, start focusing on herself by watching her diet, groom herself, have fun with friends and enjoy doing things that she love. In the end of the day, it seems like the ‘right guy’ comes, knocking her door, waiting her to welcome him in to her life… *wink*

I feel life is miraculous. Don’t you feel so?
It keeps on giving hopes to people who believe that there is light in the end of every tunnel.

For instance, when you thought that all good guys (girls) are dead and you have no hope in finding one after so many attempts, God thoughtfully choose the right one, put him/her into a box, wrap it carefully with your favorite present paper, finalize it with a ribbon and carefully deliver it to your house. He even rang the door bell before he left the present. Haha.. I know it sounds so much like a children story where you find your present under your Christmas Tree in the next morning. Well, that’s how I visualize my friend’s and mine situation… =P

My ‘present’ under the Christmas Tree =D

I truly believe in this blog post title, where ‘love comes when you are ready’. Also, love happens when you start to love yourself before sharing it with others.. =)

If you have something to share about your love journey, please share with us. I truly believe that every chapter of love and relationship is a gift for self-discovery and personal growth. Write to me at curryegg1[@]gmail.com.

I’m listening to:

P/s: Always believe that there is light in the end of the tunnel. Have faith =)