Happy 2011!!

Every year we make resolutions.

Some make them and stick to them 100%.

Some tries their very best,

but only fulfill part of them.

Then there are those,

Those that tried really hard but failed.

I am one of them,

For 2010, none was fulfilled.

But it's alright.

It doesn't mean I am giving up,

It doesn't mean 2011 will go on,

without resolutions from me.

This year will be different.

'Cos I won't wait for 2011

to be an awesome year,

I declare to MAKE it be one!

How did you usher in the new year?

Was it at a mall?

At a private house party?

In church? or just at home?

Mine was at home, in bed.

How sad was that.

Mr. C woke me 15 minutes before 12,

I bathed and we watched fireworks in Sydney,

on tivo!

But it's alright,

'Cos end 2011 when I usher in 2012,

I'll be somewhere fun

with my friends or family.

So, join me and let's make 2011 rock!

New Years Celebration 2011

The New Year is closing approaching and we are ready to celebrate . 2011 is the year of new beginnings and great endeavors . We would like to dedicate this blog and final day of 2010 year to all our new friends that have come along the way. From our Facebook friends who have joined Trendee's , as well as to our Twitter Tweeps who have joined along the way , we want to Thank You for your friendship and future vendor connections. For our floral colleagues we have met and will continue to meet , we Thank you for allowing us to be apart of your connections. For our fabulous brides that we connected with in 2010 and had the privilege of celebrating a very special day with us. It was a pleasure to create intimate moments  for family & friends . Last but not least , I personally would like to thank my family , for all there support and for allowing me to continue to pursue my dreams.I wish you all a HAPPY NEW YEAR !!!

Cheap Prom Dresses

Every girl gets excited by the time that their school announces that the prom night is just a couple of months away. Unfortunately, not everyone has enough money to buy for the most elegant looking prom dresses that are available in most couture shops. However, this should not be a reason to stop you from getting that dress for this memorable event. There are now cheap prom dresses that are not just cost-effective, but very glamorous at the same time.
In today's rough economy, young ladies are being forced to work within a budget when it comes time to buy a prom dress, new shoes and a pretty shawl. The steep prices being charged at the fancy boutiques in local malls and shopping centers are simply too high to afford for most girls your age. Perhaps you are interested in buying a knock-off dress that looks exactly like what Paris Hilton and other Hollywood celebs are wearing on the red carpets. You can fulfill that dream of yours by going online and searching under cheap prom dresses.
This means that not only will you be able to afford the exact dress you have had your eye on but you also will be able to pick up those new shoes, stockings, shawl, purse and any accessories you need such as earrings or a new necklace to match your dress. There are dozens and dozens of online retailers that specialize in nothing but formal attire. This means that the prices are kept low because each of these retailers must directly compete with one another for your business.
You can always look for economical dress on the Internet. You have a wider choice since hundreds of websites are offering this kind of service and the competition is actually tight especially as the prom season comes. Aside from the inexpensive price, there are some websites that still offer discounts as well especially if you buy it a couple of months before the prom night. The best thing about the cheap prom dresses is that it is unlikely that you will see the same design on boutiques near you.

My 2010

Every year, I say the next year will be a better year. In 2009, I said that it will finally be my year. It wasn't a great year but at least, I pulled myself out of my depression. But I stayed in audit till October amidst some hoo haas and that took a lot out of me. After three months of 'self proclaims holiday' aka unemployment and enjoying every single second of it till the end of 2009, 2010 arrived.

I figured, with a new job and a new beginning, maybe 2010 will be a really new year for me. A happier year. A better year. But instead of better, I started out on a wrong footing, did some stupid mistakes not mentionable here but I think back now, it has made the me of today.

I think it's good for us to take some time to reflect and ponder how and what 2010 was like, what went well and what didn't, just like how we do at work after each job assignment. With that, we can hopefully learn from our mistakes and strengthen our good points and not hopefully, but with a certainty, make the following year a better one, if not awesome!

I would say 2010 was a journey for me. It wasn't an awesome year as I started the year badly but hopefully ended it on a better note. 2010 was definitely a journey of learning what I was capable of and learning to climb out of the deep holes that I had dug for myself. It was also about learning to make decisions despite other's reservations and one's own uncertainties.

First quarter of the year...

I ushered the new year with my petbrother and dentist friend in Penang. In January, I started my second job in a bank. I didn't like my work but I definitely liked two colleagues that made work bearable- Sai Fai and GV! At least, I was no longer in audit. Yeah sure, there were some good times but I just wasn't cut out for it.

Bank colleagues having a farewell steamboat for me! =)

Besides work, like I said, I made some bad moves. You'd never think that I was capable of such things, neither did I, but things happened and I was in a mess somewhat. My mum and I had heated arguments over my so-called-self-destructive behaviour and I almost walked out of home. My love life was headed to the rocks in a way. I was frustrated. I was confused.

Bur fret not, of course when one makes mistakes, we think it's the end of the world, your world. We wonder how we'll ever come out of it unscathed and unmarred. And that's just it. You don't. The scars are there to remind you what you went through, to forge on and like a warrior, the scars represents the battles you've valiantly fought.

So, despite my confusion and mistakes, I realised that 2010 was a year to learn that falling in love is not all about find the perfect person 'cos lets face it, there is NO such thing as a perfect person. It was a year about learning to love an imperfect person perfectly. And that imperfect person is Mr. C. =)

Not forgetting, I went for a friend's mother's funeral in March. It was a good reminder to appreciate my parents whilst they are around despite how they drive me insane with their mind games.

Second quarter of 2010...

I resigned from my job and left for Brisbane in May. And I finally made it to Skytrex with Gill before I left and it was torturous but GOOD! Although I made a choice, it wasn't easy moving on and letting go certain things. Worries plagued me. I was uncertain and I hate not being sure of myself. I was getting shoot at left and right by relatives and sometimes, I just want to ask them to bugger off and let me live my life. It felt as if they wanted to mould me to follow their paths but at the end, I know it's because they cared, hence, their concern.

At the same time, I liked that I didn't have to wake up early every morning to trudge to work- a job that I dislike. I woke up when I want to and slept whenever. Did whatever and whenever. It was liberating to be away from home, work, obligations, for once. But after awhile, reality sinks in.

Adapting to Aussie life...

I realised I may have enjoyed everyday doing nothing of importance but life was passing me by. Not forgetting, I somehow got hives and till now, I still have them although not as bad but it still itches if I don't eat my meds. For the life of me, we can't figure out what am I allergic to and I hope *looks to the high heavens for some intervention* it'll go away in 2011.

In June, Watched the World Cup with korean housemates at home and also in the city. for the Korea vs Greece match. No points for guessing which team we rooted for. *hehe* Went travelling with Mr. C to Sunshine Coast, Eumundi Market and Noosa Heads on top of other places after my grumbling that he didn't bring me anywhere on my previous trips to Brisbane. =p

Dabbled in cooking and finally got around to making Konyaku Jelly!

Although the good life, I missed home and friends.

Third quarter towards the end...

Hence, I was super ecstatic to go back home to sweet Malaysia for two months holiday! Before that, I had a haircut for AUD19! And the hairstylist gave me bangs, again! Initially, I hated it but then, it grew and looked better. I met the plurk gang at William's for dinner, watched movie on Wednesday for only RM6 and tried out the Geylang Frog Porrige at SS2! Wasn't with Mr. C for his birthday but hid his present for him to find.

Tuesday dinner at Vintry with the Sis.

I was always out- mornings were dedicated for my mother and evenings for friends. I had Tueday dinner dates with my sister. Went on a girls outing with The Sues. Had family outing to Perak's Clearwater Sanctuary and Cameron Highlands. Too much of something is never good and with overload of family, I made a last minute turnabout decision and went to Redang with one of the Sues and her friends (though I never did blogged about it.hmmm... another topic to blog about in future) .

Redang 2010 with new friends!

Heng dais planning on how to 'save' the bride.

September came and Mr. C came back, we hang out with his friends and celebrated his brother's wedding. Then, whilst his brother went on his honeymoon, we made a family trip on Mr. C's side to the land of smiles- Thailand!

Interesting, original floating market at Bangkok.

Last quarter of the year...

And so, all good things must come to an end- Mr. C and I flew back to Brissie. On his off days, he would cook for me. Yum! When I got back, I thought I had everything under control but there were still questions, uncertainties and for awhile, I really thought that they would never go away. And so, I prayed in my heart that God would answer them and give me a sign- He gave me two. And I made the final decision.

To top it off, I was homesick.

Besides that, I did an About Me challege for a few weeks and it was a good exercise. When I get a sign for something, something else crops up to test my faith, yet again.

November was a month filled with special occasions - birthdays and anniversaries. I had my own special moment besides my birthday but I won't disclose it just yet. =) I put my heart on my sleeves for an answer but till now, I haven't received it and I probably never will but it's alright. I've moved on. I really have and till now, I haven't regretted making that choice. I am happy with my life here with Mr. C though it would be even better if I had my friends here.

Oh yeah, I almost forgot... I went to Jason Derulo's concert!!

So, I've started wedding planning somewhat and let me tell you, all I feel like doing is running and hiding from anything wedding related. Part of me says,"let's just elope and not have any fancy ceremony" and the other half fights for a wedding of pretty gowns and tons of headaches! Received several quotes and OMG I wished I had the budget for them. =( Oh well...

Anyways, that's my almost detailed recounting of 2010. Clicked on the coloured words for the links to the related post. =) All I can say is, 2010 wasn't perfect, wasn't awesome, wasn't exactly great. It started off bad but well, I would say the ending of they year is way better than my other years have been.

But come 2011, I am not sitting on my laurels, hoping for it to be a great year because this time, I am going to make sure it will BE a great and awesome year!

So, join me and make 2011 not just a good or great year for yourself but an AWESOME one! =)

Happy 2011 peeps !!!

Ke$ha's Tik Tok different version

I don't know to laugh or to applaud.

Christine & Edward Rancho Bernardo Wedding 12/18/10

We had the pleasure of meeting Christine towards the end of the year. she was planning a very sweet and intimate ceremony with few family & friends . Since her family where from out of town , actually out of the country ,Her simple request was SIMPLE and INTIMATE , and we tried to create that feel . With the very simple Chapel decor from the candle piece on the organ to the grand piano floral piece decorated with candles and mirrors. We then took that to the reception  , located at the Rancho Bernardo Country Club , where are set-up was in a very intimate small ball room , creating a very intimate feel and ambiance throughout the room. Our snapshots we took throughout where only a glimpse of the beautiful ceremony setting .

Cinderella Prom Dress

Cinderella prom dress can come in many different designs and styles each design has its own unique interest and detail. Every one of these dresses can have very different cuts and it is important to understand what figures they best suit. The bodices are designed to clinch the waist which gives an hour glass effect, emphasised by the full skirt giving the illusion of a tiny waist. The elegant fairytale effect of these dresses will turn the heads of any onlookers and with most styles being covered from top to bottom with lavish details and sparkles you will certainly set the scene for an unforgettable night.
The Cinderella prom dress with a dropped waist can improve you overall silhouette. The full skirt flows gracefully out from the hip line emphasizing your waist. If you choose this as a strapless design then you can dress up your bare shoulders with a lavish necklace or shoulder wrap. Remember to choose designs where the embellishment is concentrated around the body features you want to show off. Beading and sequins can draw the eyes in. so if you want people to look at you waist, make sure most of the details are in this area.
It must be every girls dream to dress up as their favourite fairytale character and recreate that adorable Princess look at their prom by wearing stunning and unforgettable Cinderella prom dresses, never before has a UK trend taken off so well as the prom. Although the US has been holding proms for their last year at school students for as long as I can remember it has never been deemed important over here in the UK.
Proms where thought to originate in the Victorian era when the younger generation was introduced in to the high society community. These parties where very lavish and the girls were dressed from head to toe in fine Cinderella prom dresses mostly made from white silk. The party back then was known as a promenade as the new society members were paraded around the party to meet the older members.

Kooky Pics #396 Rings and coins

Beaten and robbed by Malaysian cops over expired road tax

Apparently the Malaysian Chinese businessman in the below clip was beaten up and ROBBED by our awesome upholding-justice-Malaysian-stupid-Malay-policemen.

He was initially puller over for an expired road tax. He then told the policeman he was sorry and asked the policeman to issue the summon. Unfortunately, as he took his IC out for the policeman, the greedy, corrupted policeman saw the stack of money in his wallet and started hinting for bribe.

Summary is that the guy refused to pay bribe and was beaten up and threatened to be framed by our policemen.

Read about it HERE and also at The Star.

Such absurdity continues on in Malaysia making one wonder if we will ever truly see justice? If our country will ever be free of corruption...

Look at the Mongolian model, Atlantuya case. Everyone knows the real culprit isn't behind bars. If you believe that the case is close with the two men in jail, boy, are you gullible. It's always the small farts that take the fall and sure, why not, especially if their families are going to be looked after forever by the real culprit.

Another is the Anwar debacle. All and sundry knows that Anwar was set up. Whether he really does practice sodomy is his own business. My friend, who studied law were required to study his case and stated that it was blatantly obvious he was set up. Well, even Saiful's accusation seems doubtful and yet...

I am not for Anwar as the next Prime Minister of Malaysia but I just want justice to be served. I want to be proud of Malaysia and not feel scorn for those who 'lead' and 'guard' us. I don't want people to have to be afraid that they might be the next victim as the above Chinese guy.

Why is it that a man like Raja Petra has to go into hiding? Did he murder anyone? Hit anyone? Steal anything? Robbed somebody? Bribed or received bribes? Take the people's money and built mansions? Nope. He did none of the above. All he did was tell us, the rakyat (Malay for people) the truth.

How many cases like the above youtube clip has gone unreported? How many have been abused? Made to disappear?

A plurk friend plurked that he was issued a saman (Malay word for summon/fine) for driving in the emergency lane when it was obvious that he wasn't. He refused to acknowledge or sign off on a summon that wasn't even valid in the first place!

I read bloggers' recount their experience of intimidation by policemen with the intention to extort bribe. I, myself was a victim.

It's ridiculous that instead of feeling safe when we see a policemen, we get worried and feel the opposite. We are apprehensive that we'll be another victim of corruption.

If you ever encounter a stupid policemen, make sure you get his name and remember his police ID no. (badge no.) and please, don't pay bribes.

If there is no demand, there will be no supply.

You speed, you pay. You run a red light, you pay. For being an idiot and making a mistake, own up, be a man and PAY THE *TOOT* SUMMON!

Don't be selfish. Do that for a better future for your children and their children.

ps: I told Mr. C that I am blogging and angsty post again on Malaysia's policemen etc... so, if I disappear, you'll know why. Then again, I am not that popular like Raja Petra or Timothy Tiah or XiaXue etc. =p

Faviana Prom Dress

Faviana prom dress make others turn their heads when you enter the room. They are bold, daring and incredibly sexy. No surprise, given that they're modeled after dresses worn by movie stars. It is not too often that designer gowns of this magnitude and name can be found for such a steal. Faviana is not generally known for their affordable pricing, yet there are many that can be found for less than most people pay for a weekend outfit! This opens up the possibilities for the many other needs of your special prom night.
Faviana Prom Dresses are built around the personality of beautiful. These dresses absolutely spill attitude and flair as they sway with the young ladies every dance. The fabric used for all their gowns are custom designed flatter a range of body types, and since looking good is important, this is one reason that a faviana prom dress is so popular. Pick up the teen magazines, fashion designer materials or news and these gowns are proudly displayed from the past styles to those walking the red carpet today.
Choose from sequins, ruffles, short or long styles and also a range in vibrant choices of colors. This makes any dream come true for those young ladies not only looking for the perfect dress, but also one that is affordable. There are not many prom dresses under $100, so look closely at the jeweled panel or shoulder straps of the newest Faviana designs; they are popular and all so elegant.
Choosing your Faviana prom dress may seem like a tedious task, but it's supposed to be fun! Though they offer different styles, colors, and sizes, remember to take your time and try not to get overwhelmed. Consider the quality, elegance, and beauty of the prom dress you want. You can find an affordable prom dress that's beautiful and fun. It's not impossible!

Purple Prom Dress

Are you missing what everybody is looking at? Well, purple prom dress are in demand and very much in fashion. Adding this bright colour to your wardrobe can do wonders for your personal fashion statement. Purple is considered to be timeless colour and its demand never fades away. Purple dresses look so bright that they add that extra colour and shine to any party or event. Purple dresses are a must for this summer season. It has to be part of every girl's wardrobe. Are you missing that purple dress in wardrobe? Well, go grab it now. Purple colour is often related with mystery and spirituality.
Purple is a beautiful color and the best thing about this color is that you can find it in pearls and even in gemstones. Thus, I would strongly recommend you to wear jewelry that has either purple pearls or gemstones.
Purple prom dress is incomplete without jewelry because cocktail parties are functions where jewelry is worn to show your standard and class, choose decent, elegant, classic and delicate jewelry. Don't go for necklaces and lockets if your dress is strapless. However, never miss out on a large stone finger ring and earrings with a shade that reflects the purple prom dress.
Purple has always been a very warm colour. With a big family of shades, purple is definitely here to stay. Long flowing gowns in purple colour are the best bet for bridesmaid. Whether it is a short chic dress or an elegant evening gown, purple colour suits them all and hence is the next in fashion colour for year 2010. This sensational colour makes any party more colourful and joyful. With a variety of make up which can be teamed up as per the time and type of occasion with purple dresses, the colour has already started making waves of demand in this year.

Kooky Pics #395 Boobies !!

Beach Club, Carindale Mall.

Questions to Ask and Things to Consider when Choosing an Indoor Wedding Venue

Here is Part Two of Questions to Ask and Things to Consider. This blog is directed towards choosing an indoor venue. Part One, was directed towards choosing an outdoor venue.

1.What is all included with your rental?
2. How long do you have the venue and does that time frame include their staff to set up and tear down, or is that actual "event" time?
3. What items are include; tables, chairs, linen, centerpieces, dance floor, etc.? If they are not, find out who they would recommend you work with for these items, Your venue will know best.
4. Are there decor items included? If you bring in your own, do they have any restrictions on them?
5. If you are looking at a religious facility, find out if there are any religious restrictions and/or obligations that they expect you and your fiancee to fulfill. Talk with each other to make sure you are on the same page with how you feel about this.
6.Find out if there any photo and/or video restrictions. Some churches or venues will allow limited or no flash and possibility no video or photography. Make sure that whatever constraints your photo and video people are able to work around this.
7. Music; do they provide any? Do they provide equipment? Again, is there a fee attached?
8. Are you ale to bring in musicians if you want?
9. For churches, find out about usage fees, room rentals, coordinator fees and/or minister fees.
11. The person your meet with, is the person who will be there on the day of? If so, what can you expect of them on your wedding day?
12. Is there a rehearsal? Who coordinates that? Is there a fee for a rehearsal?
13. What linen and centerpiece options does the venue provide complimentary?
14. Are you able to bring in your own linens and centerpieces or can you arrange through the venue?
15. Keep in mind, it is much easier to coordinate these items through the venue. They are then responsible for load in/out and set up. Also, they are responsible for returning these items to the rental company, or if there is any loss or damage, it does not come out of your pocket! Also, you do not have to worry about setting anything up on your wedding day.
16. Ask the venue if they provide hotel accommodations. If they do, ask for discount rates and discount cards for your guests.
17. If they do not provide accommodations, ask if they have any relationship with a hotel to get reduced rates. A lot of times they partner with a nearby hotel and can get you better rates for your guests.
18. Find out about transportation; consider convenience for your guests.
19. Find out from the venue what vendors THEY recommend, and why?
20. Ask the venue if they do a food tasting or cake tasting. Not necessary, but at least you will know up front.
21. After the event, what is the process for retrieving any left behind items?
22. Are you able to change or adjust the menus offered?
24. If you have guests with specific dietary restrictions, can the venue accommodate this requests?
25. Do they allow candles on the tables? Any restrictions or do thy provide these?

For further information regarding choosing an indoor or outdoor wedding venue, please contact Liane McCombs Wedding & Event Planning at 775.786.1730 or visit simphony-life.com

New Years Decor Ideas

Create a simple but creative New Years table scape, from a table centerpiece using florals to candles that create a very intimate setting to adding a very simple DIY cut out circle spheres hanging around a window seal . New Years can be the the best time to start anew with creative ideas for your guest . Celebrating a New Year with family & friends. We hope you enjoy these simple but affective table scape for for New Year's party !!