a little update since 2013..HAHA

Yes, it's been since 2013 that I even stop by this blogspot. Thankfully I didn't aim to be a blogger as a part time career as looking at this blog, it's filled with dust and moss. Haha :).

So, what have happened since 2013. I would say some MASSIVE stuffs happened.

Throughout 2013 to 2016, I was working pretty much working with CFS, moved into more senior team and experienced some good experiences and made life long friends and also because of bad boss and felt being stagnant at my work that I finally threw my resignation in November 2016. That was the end of 5 and half years working for CFS. I'm thankful I've learnt so much from great mentors and bosses, made really great friends that I can say I'm glad I am still in touch with them. I'm also thankful to those not so good bosses that make me realised what kind of leader I wouldn't want to become.

With that resignation I head home back for Malaysia to work back with family. When people asked me (up to today I still get the same question) why I came back, there were a few factors that lead me to it. One: I've been pretty stagnant with my job, unhappy with it and unsure where to go next. Two: It's been 12 years away from home, I do miss home. In Sydney, I come back to 4 walls and a little lonely. Three: After consulting my Dad, I realised he needed help with the business and so why not come back and assist him. Four: With no commitment/partner/family in Sydney, I can make the move a little easier.

It's been a year now. I would say both personal life and work life is kinda mashed up as one and very challenging indeed. With family, I feel my life is used up a little more fulfilled with family affairs and relatives. Though this year, I did lost my dear aunt to heart conditions, I was glad I was home that first few months to spend sometime with her. I'm also glad that I am available for my cousin who is also going through some health issues as well. At the very least I feel I am physically around to support my family in all the matters rather than before I only hear it from my parents and can't do much to help.

Work wise, I'm assisting my dad in his business and of cause being the different culture from Australia, I am not used to it. But throughout the year being in the business, I'm slowly holding the grips of it but long way more to being the target of both me and Dad hope. Many obstacles, one being culture of the people, one being traditional processes and also not to forget the hardest one is my Mother being in the company, one of the most traditional person, where we call these people old school business people. I shall keep this aside in case she reads this. :)

Friends, the Jenny that knows everyone, don't really know everyone in Malaysia... hehe.. so less social activities somehow. It sounds sad but not really. I guess when everyone have different commitments around families, every meet up or gatherings seems more worthwhile. I did reunited with a few primary school friends and highschool friends, so much to talk about our good old days. Being 33 this year, I am in the minority group of single people around. I am also not meeting any potentials as I am also not going out more and meeting any new people. So, where am I going to meet HIM? Well, I am feeling ok but pressure is definitely coming from my mum and friends. :) For the timebeing, just enjoy every moment I guess. I believe the one up there prepared a perfect GUY for me.

Not to forget, I finally set up The Sparkle Studio, a platform for my wedding planning business. It's been rather slow smooth sailing where I have some plans in mind for the year 2018 to see if we can move one gear up. I am thankful I got some jobs referred by friends and also my dear god bro who got married in Nov too for entrusting me. I also am grateful for the experiences given by some other wedding planner friends, good or bad, I managed to learn a lot. Not to forget some of my friends who are with me in the journey and also some new friends I meet in the industry. May we get to work more together in coming years.

I guess that's it for now. It's rather short and sweet update to cover 4 years of coverage. I'll be back with my 2018 resolutions. see ya laterzzz

Another annual update...

I realised I blog lesser since I start working. This blog is completely deserted and I felt sorry. However, I used to blog more when I'm unhappy, unsettled and unsatisfied with life. I do blog about happy occasion but it usually is not as long as those sad ones.

So does this mean, lesser unhappy events happening to me? Or am I just too busy to update my life to the world. My answer: I'm grateful with what I have now that make me have lesser time to rant about. Yes life is still filled with drama but at least I can say I am on an decent fruitful journey.

So since my last post last year, I am still working with CFS, pretty proud of my own achievement so far and I now need to think of my next move. Since I understand the company better, I've keep changing my mind about what I want to next, what is suitable to me and what is my decision. I am still pretty undecided but sometimes timing is very important. For now, I'm glad I'm getting the experience I wanted and keep challenging myself with new goals. So let's wait and see where the light lead me to. :)

As for life, it's pretty stagnant, it's all about work on week days and then weekends I will look for plans. Sometimes I hang out with the boys and sometimes with different other groups. I'm starting to feel it's all about work and nothing else and yet the time pass like lightning. It's my 8th year in Sydney and am I sick of it yet? I guess when u are stagnant for a while...You hope for some changes.

I have been ask this question a lot last CNY: are you ever coming back? My answer is YES, time is soon.  However my soon can be subjective. I've set a realistic time after talking to my wise dad, however I could decide to change it whenever I want as one cannot predict what will happen tomorrow. So from now till then, I shall do what I aim to achieve and if I leave then, I leave with achievements I am proud of and with no regrets.

Now what else? I'm still doing CPA, in hope I'm finishing in my planned time, though my brain is pretty tired of accounting but I know it's for my own good. The other thing I'm aiming to do is a event course whether as focused to wedding or special events or not.. I really want to get a certification on it , or else I know I will regret it. Whoever know of one, let me know pretty please.

My cupcake business is still surviving though my partner was away for a bit, I knew I can still handle it like I always do. I take everything like this as a challenge, and if I am able to work it well, I'm a happy girl. Good thing is every time someone praise my little creations, my heart tinkles with joy.

Family: Mum and Dad are at their normal life's, with occasion dramas and my bro finally graduated end of last year. Now, time to buck my brother up a bit in his decision about his next step. So, baby brother, I am so proud u graduated and now , decision time!!!! Life is difficult as we need to make decisions on our life's but if not, we will be robots or one of your Lego figures. I know you can do whatever you want if you want to.

Other than work, family, lifestyle and studies, my love life seems pretty empty. Mr Right is not around yet or maybe have not even hinted me enough. :( When I see couples around me in drama situations, I wish I can go to them and say, cherish each other as you have each other. I don't even have someone to share the moment with. Haizzz..

Recently, I have a friend who is having troubles with her husband. I feel disappointed when I know the stories from both side, both is at fault and when both did agree to give it another chance to rekindle, from my angle it looks like only one side is being blamed and that same side is at the usual scene of giving in and trying to make things work, when the other side, claimed to give it a chance, but keep putting blame on the other , pulling out the flaws and imperfections. I feel sad as I witnessed their beautiful union and I really hope it's not a bad conclusion. I believe when two become one, we shouldn't calculate how much one give in and how much one take, it should be infinity, uncountable. No one is indeed perfect in everything, don't expect your other half to be those character on the movies that we all adore and wished our other halves can be, as they can't. They are who they are and for any change, that person must be willing to change. I believe I was taught this phrase,' For Things to Change, I Must Change First'. And I would just add on to the line, ' and then he/she will be willing to change too.'

I remember one of Yasmin advertisements about when a wife was giving a speech about her late husband, she said she cannot remember the perfections of him but it's his imperfections that make her remember how she love him for his flaws. To the dear friend if you are reading this, sit down and talk to yourself, ask yourself why did u say Yes to his proposal before?,  what is all about making others happy or was is just everyone is expecting it to happen? Did u not love him to know he will be the one?

After the last 2 paragraph, some might think I might have been thru so much in life to understand things so well. In actual case, I'm just a typical single girl who seems to see too much dramas around me and then to be not as blind especially I'm not in those drama. I'm glad I'm told I am usually a rational one but to help any friends... I am just a good listener and may give decent advice but for things to work or change, the person need to work on it. I believe if I faced those problems in life, I would have my lost moments. But one just need to remember when a door is close, there is always a window open somewhere. So be optimistic and believe in things, then you would be able to walk towards the window, or else you would always be in the dark, doubting yourself. I am glad when my mum quoted me when she talk to my brother, saying you should be like your sister, be optimistic and happy go lucky abit. :)

Ok, long post.. I promise I should come and write soon.. Ciao...

the moment of thoughts...

It's been 6 months since I last blogged. I have to say time flies, just like that. Day in , day out, the routine was to work and home and next day work again. And now, it's six months after, I'm writing on the second day of Winter in OZ.

So what have I been doing? Work wise, I believe I'm at my peak, learning what I need to learn and actively trying to work better and show my capabilities. In such a big company, I have to work double or triple as hard to show I can do better. So, I have to say, putting myself out there and actively taking up roles and opportunities given is my best attributes. I'm not proving to anyone, but for a 27 (turning 28) year old lady, I have to be ahead of the rat race and prove I am something. It's more of proving myself the point.  I'm not sure if anyone from work read my blog (I hope not! :P). If they do, I guess it's for them to understand me better. If they don't, all good. :)

Life in Sydney? I have been asked this a zillion times, am i staying here for good? I had plans to head back to Malaysia for good but I would also want to maintain my PR. And for now, work have been good to me, so I shall give it a few more years here and hopefully with all the experience, if I were to head back to Malaysia, I got something to bring back with me. :)

I have to say every time anyone ask me that question, I would jokingly say, " If I can't find a husband here, I shall go back and find then." It's not possible. I am still single and patiently waiting for the MR RIGHT to jump right in front of me. But unfortunately, I believe I haven't found that guy. Just the other day I was just chatting with a guy friend (one of my best friend's boyfriend) and I did mention I am a guy's best friend. He immediately said, "with your personality, yes.. u are indeed guys' best friend." I know I tend to be guys' best friend as I knows what guys think, to the point I sometimes cannot make up my mind whether is the guy's wrong or the girl's wrong. But I believe I'm always rational enough to be a good listener and give proper advice. That is also my best attribute being Jenny Tan!!! I was advised to be patient and that guy up there have plans for me. So, I shall patiently wait. :)

So, what's next?

Coming month towards end of June, work would be busy as it's heading towards end of financial year in Australia and I'm expecting less sleep. However I've set myself a challenge in this 5 weeks before my trip back to Malaysia in July. Eating super healthy, sleeping well, workout daily and let's see what happen then.

Yes, I'm heading back to Malaysia in July. Thanks to the management for allowing me the time off as it was supposed to be block out period where no one is allowed to go on holidays. But this is not normal holiday. I'm heading back for a 3 days long prayers for my grandma and the ancestors. Grandma had left us since 2010 and now, we are to do a prayers for her anniversary following the Hokkien tradition. I will be back a short one week plus for that occasion.

I am heading back to Malaysia again in September, this time for 2 weddings and possibly a trip in between to somewhere in South East Asia. I'm back for one of my best friend, Wei Teing's wedding, marrying Gan. As a promise made in 2005, we promise to be there for each other's wedding. :) So, I'm glad and honored to be back for it. My cousin, David also decided to tie the knot with his fiance Joline 2 weeks later in Singapore and I've extended my trip just for that. Thanks for entrusting me to do the styling for certain things. :)

Talking about weddings, there are like so many this year that I am truly sorry to those in Malaysia that I cannot come back to every wedding. Sorry to Zek, Jocelyn and Yenn. You know if Australia is as near as Singapore to Malaysia, I would come back. Then in November, Junda & Sharon's wedding, December, if I'm going back, Cousin Joseph is tying the knot too. AL these add pressure to my life.. haizzz...but well I'm happy for them.

For now.. that's all I can update and rant about.. hopefully I'll blog soon..

at the junction of 2011 and 2012..

I realised I didn't touch this blog since April. Since April, too many things happened and now that we are hitting the end of 2011, let me quickly highlight some of the happenings of my life since then that I think I can conclude that 2011 was good and fulfilling.

First, a brief photo montage of my Europe Trip beginning of the year.

After that trip and my stay back home in Malaysia, it was the journey of job searching. And I was so lucky that I got a job and started my journey with Colonial First State as a Financial Service Administrator on April 18, 2011.

From then, life was about work and settling down with it well. I've learnt so much from different people in the company and I'm truly glad to be where I am. I'm glad to even made great friends besides working with one of my bestie in the same company. Thanks to her hubby for referring me the job. I still owe him one. :)

In August, I followed my parents on a trip back to the roots, China where I discover the history. A trip of 12 people, I flew to China via Singapore and went for the trip that I believe was meaningful. We revisited the ancestral house and the place where my great grandparents were laid to rest. There were so much to discover from traditional looking furniture to the relatives who are staying there. One interesting fact, I'm the only female of generation of my family. High pressure! The culture and food is the other thing that enlighten me. :)

After the trip, I was in Singapore and Malaysia for a short trip before heading back to Sydney. I managed to catch up with family and friends. I managed to see Calvin & Moon's baby Ainsley and that girl is a tough girl.. just like her mummy. :)

Back to Sydney it was work, CPA exams and my one of my besties wedding of her life that is keeping me busy. Work is still great and challenging. I experienced my first company Xmas party, that was awesome!! CPA? I failed the first semester of the year but managed to pass the 2nd semester. Thank god!!

My bestie's wedding? Turned out great and I think it's telling me that I might have prospect in this wedding planning line. :) Who knows..

And as I'm writing now, I am trying to finish this short recap before the clock hit 12 to welcome 2012 in my new Melbourne home (my brother's place) which I'm sure would welcome me to Melbourne more. I am grateful for whatever happened in 2011 and I sincerely hope that 2012 would be a better year for everyone. :)

HAPPY NEW YEAR and WELCOME 2012!! :)

it's been awhile.. 4th month in 2011

I just realised I have left this blog empty and untouched since September last year. And, I forgot to shout Happy Birthday on that post to my lovely mum. I was writing that post, while I was in Melbourne visiting my bro while my parents were there. It's been a great family trip all together.

Previous blog post was quite emo. I am still missing my dearest grandma but I know she is in a better place. She will always remain in my heart, that will never change.

So, what have I been doing since then? I have been working in the same place but I was back and forth to Malaysia so many times. Once in November for prayers for my grandma and another time in conjunction of a family / work trip to Europe in January/ February and stayed for Chinese New Year. Yes, it was a long break.

Before the Europe trip, I was back in time for my grandpa's prayers too. My grandpa's burial place is kinda old and cracking and so, the family decided to rebuild it. So, I managed to go back to Kuala Pilah, my dad's hometown this time to take a look. It's been close to 6 years since I was back for Cheng Meng. What a big difference to my grandpa's place. It was big and spacious in comparison to my grandma's place. This is the difference between two different place and different times. 40 odd years ago, the hills are not as commercialised and yet the land is big. Now, commercialised memorial places is limited to that piece of land you buy. Anyway, it was a good reunion as our relatives of my granduncle were around and went to my grandma's place to pay her respect on the way back to KL.

I'll do another post particularly for the Europe Trip. In short, it was fulfilling despite being working partially.

I was back in time for CNY but well, not celebrating it as we were mourning for 3 years (according to the Hokkien traditions), things were a lot easier on my mum. So, we just chilled at home and still went back to my mum's hometown, Raub as we were celebrating Uncle Yap Ah Loy's 61st Birthday. I baked some lemon cupcakes as his cake and glad that everyone loved it.

My best achievement was during my stay, my dad suggested that we walked out from our place to the city centre to eat breakfast. I initially thought, "Are you sure, dad? " In disbelief and doubt of whether I can last the walk, I still followed my dad to take the challenge. For a person like me who participated City2Surf of 14km, you guys out there would think, I shouldn't have any problem. But walking in Malaysia, it's totally different. I would actually sweat more and what is more challenging is that the roads in Raub do not have pedestrian paths. You have to beware of cars and uneven roads. Dad did some calculating before, our journey would be about 2km +/-. I usually can do it if we were at our housing area in Bukit Rimau with not much traffic.

Anyway, I did it and enjoyed fantasic nasi lemak and roti canai with dad at Ratha, the famous mamak in town. Trust me the curry is different. We packed some food back for our family and relatives and they were amazed when we said we walked out and walked back. :)

Anyway, the rest of the days in Malaysia was either spent with family and relatives or with my friends in Malaysia. I had so many different gathering with all of them and was happy to have spent time with them. I practically changed and postponed my flight back just to spend more time and it was kinda a bad choice to do it as the stay gets longer, the more reluctant I want to come back to Sydney. Good news, my favourite niece is more adorable and close to me than ever and the baby nephew is so cute!! :)

As I was leaving back to Sydney, I got another great news from Derek that his baby boy Cayden is out in the world. :) I can't wait to go back to see him. :)

Since I came back to Sydney, I decided to move on from what I was supposed to do. Now, it's either I land myself a job soon or I would wait for my opportunity with my dad's side. This coming week is going to be so hectic as I am studying for my CPA before my exam in a month's time and I got an interview which I hope I would fare well. Bless me please....

That's all for now..:)

and it changes my life...

It's been about 3 months since I wrote anything. I wanted to update this blog in July after my birthday but have been procrastinating. Yes I turned 26 and is very much looking forward to really push myself to work my dreams, work my ways towards things. Just as I was in the gear, my life when to a big pause.

It all happened with a phone call from Mum at about 4.30am Aussie time, that woke me up. I remember I was so tired from work and I dozed off, sleeping early, forgotten to switch off the lights to sleep. Then, I was waken up by a call. When I was about to pick it up, it turned into a miss call from an unknown caller. I suspected it could be someone from home, so I sms-ed my mum, " Mum, did you call me?" Then the phone rang again, in a crying voice, Mum said, " Inn, Ah Ma left already." In the midst of half-awake mode, I immediately broke into tears, in disbelief. Mum continued to ask me to arrange my way back home while my tears keep flowing down my cheek and when we hang up, I cried. I still had to contain myself to call my bro and cousins in Melb to send the bad news and arrange for all of us to rush back home. That morning onwards, my whole heart just sunk.

My dearest grandma left us on 27th August 2010 at 2pm, Malaysian Time at Pantai Cheras Hospital. She was admitted to the hospital on the 8th August 2010 and had been having ups and downs conditions that make it so unpredictable that she would leave us. I had instinct that I should have been back but I didn't make that move. I was waiting for my parents to tell me either she's getting better or come back now to see her but, I did not get to say my last goodbye..

When I walked in to her funeral parlour, seeing her in her casket, I cannot believe that the last time I saw her was my last time. I still could remember that I came back for my friend's wedding and made time to go and visit her as often as I could. She would make sure Suthi, the maid cook my favourite meehoon soup for me. She would chat with me about everything from getting a boyfriend to where I want to travel. She would hold my hands and tell me about her old stories of when she first came to Malaya and all. And now, she is lying peacefully and I will never get to hear her speak again.

Throughout the funeral ceremony and prayers, flashbacks of her keep replaying in my head, I keep hearing her call my name. Every time I think of her, my tears starts rolling down my cheek. The once very strong girl that never really break down in front of others, actually was very weak at this very same time. I keep going to the casket to see her face and I wanted to talk to her, want her to respond to me but I know she's gone for good.

The hardest part was when they are closing the casket, the point that you know you would not see her face, body and the whole of her as a person anymore. I witnessed even my dad, teared as I believe it is hard to accept that his mum is leaving him forever too.

It's been 3 weeks since she left and every time anyone mentioned about her, I would sit there silently again. On the 7th day after her death, as Chinese believed that her spirit would return to visit, I was hoping she would appear in my dream. In fact, I think I felt her presence next to me just like how I used to sleep next to her when I was young.

After so much thoughts and chats with dad and mum, I realised that I have been the closest grandchildren to her. In fact, I think I was the only one she took care of for the longest time and the only one that she caned before. I was the only one that seen her cry as she talked about her difficult times.

So, in her remembrance, I would gather all her stories together and hopefully able to tell her stories to my children. I would always remember her and will always look up to her as my role model for life.

Ah Ma, I really missed you and I will love you forever. May you rest in peace and is happily with Grandpa now.

Concert and Shows... anyone??

Yes... I heard AJ Rafael is coming to Sydney this August!! The Youtube music sensation is coming down under and I believe you would agree with me that he is really good with music. I like his music passion that I heard that he have the same passion as his father who was also a great musician too.

So, who's with me?? Ticket is $35 presale and $45 at the door. :)

As I was surfing on Youtube.. I finally found the song I think I found the perfect wedding song for me. Haha. Love the song, Love the lyrics and this rendition by AJ Rafael and his mates, perfect.

AND.... I saw that BON JOVI is coming in December too!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

:)

of photo gadgets and wonderful photos..

Yes. I love taking pictures, as a passion. With me now, I have a Nikon D60, a very amateur camera. I got it since end of 2008 and since then, I have been deciding on which lenses or any other camera I want. Well, we can't get everything we want so here's to saving up for it!! :)

Olympus Pen EP1 DSLR

Lumix GF-1

I read the review and all, it seems quite interesting and relatively small for a DLSR. The Olympus one, I kinda read it on Xiaxue's blog and the Lumix one, a friend of mine uses it. :)

Thanks to Audrey, as she borrowed me her Nikon AF Nikkor 50mm before and after using it, love it. Nice portrait photos taken on my trial with it.

At the same time would love to grab a flashgun to go along my Nikon for some nice lighting pictures. :)

I've always look up to photographers that are really good be it in sceneries or portrait or wedding photography, it require skills. My favorites?? Wedding Photographers like Justin Oh, Jenny Sun, Jon Low, those from Axioo and many more.

Here's a link to this very touching photos of Katie Kirkpatrick. She was bride that was battling with cancer for 3 years. She married her highschool sweetheart Nick Goodwin in 2005 and died 5 days after the wedding. Her photos shows how strong she was to go through the process of wedding planning and no matter how unwell she is, she still smile all the way. The following photos are by Romain Blanquart and story taken from http://bolstablog.wordpress.com/2009/04/19/katie/.

Katie Kirkpatrick and her fiance, Nick, rest prior to their wedding. Katie has terminal cancer and spends hours in chemotherapy. Here Nick waits while she finishes one of the sessions.

Even in pain and dealing with her organs shutting down, with the help of morphine, Katie took care of every single wedding plan. Her dress had to be adjusted several times due to her constant weight loss.

An expected guest was her oxygen tank. Katie had to use it during the ceremony and reception. Nick's parents look on.

Katie, in a wheelchair, listening to her husband and friends serenading her.

In the middle of the party Katie had to rest for a bit and catch her breath. The pain doesn't allow her to stand for long periods of time.

This is what they mean by photos draw a thousand words. This is one of the reason why I am so keen into wedding planning. If there is anyone out there who is like Katie, sick yet strong and strive towards life and want to plan a wedding, I would do it for free. Why? Because I believe everyone have a dream to achieve and if I can help to make a wedding as the dream, why not? In fact, don't say wedding, if I know I can lend a helping hand to help anyone in need, within my ability and capacity, I will do anything for that person.

My love for design :)

I do not know where I get my inspiration or ideas from. Maybe it runs in the family or so, as my brother is into multimedia designs; he loves drawing anime manga characters and all, and my other cousin brother is good in fine arts and doing multimedia drawings too now. Me on the other hand, have a creative mind of decorations, making crafts and even doing food, I hope the food is in pretty looks and of course taste good.

When I was a lot younger, maybe 15 when I have not decided what I really want to do, I used to ask my dad for advices on career options. Trust me, back in those days, Accounting was not my thing as I have not touch accounting subject yet. I was inspired by those students doing architecture and design. So, I asked my dad about it and the moment he told me 7 years to be in the industry, I knew I couldn't do it. From young, I am not those who get straight A's and therefore, I knew my ability. So, I asked my dad again, so if I am into design, which is the 2nd option after architecture? He said interior design which he had to deal with a lot in his industry. I was then really interested in it. Thanks to mum, quoted from her, 'You will not do well in design industry unless people know you.' So, that's why accounting was now what I studied.

I know I never really put interior design behind, so I did my short course on Interior Design. I often check out websites like Apartment Therapy and other designs sites and make trips to Kinokuniya to check out interesting books that I have no money to buy. If I print money, my apartment should have no place for books to put. :) If you really like interior design like i do or even if you want to work in this kind of environment.. i want this book badly...

Well, whether or not I get to use these little creative mind of mine.. shall see.. :) I want to use it on my house first but well no money, how to decorate, right? So, earn money and then shall see.. :)

At this moment, Germany is leading 4-1 against England.. :( haizz if Ferdinand and Beckham were in the team. :(

towards end of June...

It's been 3 months since I last blogged. A lot of time have passed, a lot of things happened and I feel I'm still quite stagnant where I am. And now, one week before I turn old again, I really need to buck up my life and achieve more than now.

Anyway, enough of ranting. Here comes a bit of updates. What happened since the last I blogged. Too many but I would say the highlight is my dear friends' wedding, Moon Sin & Calvin. Thanks for inviting me and I am really happy for them and glad I could make it. Yes, means I went back twice this year. Here are some photos I picked, to show the reunion of friends, the purple-dressed-ji muis and pink ties'-heng tais and the happiness of the wedding couple.

Now, with World Cup in the season, there are a lot of sleepless nights and I am currently working casual at Papparoti Kogarah under Junda and his boys while pushing for my shop. I am starting my CPA soon.(HINT*PEK LYNN) At the same time, I have one big decision to make, that could combine my expertise into many areas. DECISIONS....

One question was always asked and I always do not have answer for it.
'Jenny, what would you like for birthday?'

My answer, as long as you remember my birthday, it's the best birthday present. Presents are just additional stuff to it. I feel having people to remember it, makes a whole lot difference. :) If you really want me to say it, haha..a simple cake with candles would make a good present. :) I remember my 21st birthday, I had 3 cakes. I've years that I didn't get to blow candles at all. That means, no wishes made. :(

more hints? if you know what I like, what I like to do.. shouldn't be too hard. haha..

till next week.. :)I'm going to watch Germany vs England soon. I don't know who to support. But if I'm loyal enough, England is the team. :)

Note to Success...

I was watching Fame 2009 yesterday. I rented the DVD on Friday and there I was on Sunday evening watching it. Something caught me when the movie was close to the end. The entire part about success.

There is something success is not. It’s not fame, it’s not money or power. Success is waking up in the morning, so excited about what you have to do, you literally fly out the door. It’s getting to work with people you love. Success is connecting with the world and making people feel. It’s finding a way to bind together people, who have nothing in common but a dream. It’s falling asleep at night knowing you did the best job you could. Success is joy, and freedom and friendship. And success is love.

By Fame 2009.

This is the famous Fame song,sang by Naturi Naughton & Collins Pennie.Notice Kherington from SYTYCD US Season 4 there? :)

There is some other songs I like and particularly like this one by Asher Book, Try. This is the shorter version but gosh.. his voice. :)

Oops I forget to share these nice songs!! :)

Yes, I've not updated my blog and only to realise I did not share this nice songs with everyone!! :)

Kina Grannis - Valentine
She came out with her album called 'Stairwells'. So go grab them!! :)




Then, next, Chinese song, 親人 by Della Ding, 丁噹. It is one of the song I heard from Autumn's Concerto / Next Stop, Happiness, 下一站，幸福. I could somehow relate myself to the song. :)



that's all for today.. :)

p/s: after BSB concert, updated news: I'm going SUPAFEST!! :) YAY!! :) before that, heading for a short trip for the Easter Weekend. :)

how i enjoyed my CNY at home.. :)

As usual, I tried to go back home for CNY and this year I felt the trip gave me deeper aftermath. It was a short 3 weeks but I think I fully utilised my 3 weeks. First 2 weeks, since it's pre CNY and CNY period, it would be a usual family time and I'm glad I managed to spend a lot more time with them.

Every year I came back in a rush and left in a rush. This year, 3 weeks is too short, not too long. Which means when I thought I am feeling comfortable at home.. then I got to go back to Sydney. Usually I will look forward to go back to Sydney, to seek my freedom and easy free life. Maybe it's because when you grew up, you think more and what is better than being together with your family and helping around the family. Knowing that my dad and mum is getting old, I feel guilty for leaving them again. So, I already make my goals duration in hope that I would go back and help them up in their business.

After leaving home for almost 5 years, I know my parents miss us, me and bro. The house is so quiet and big for them and I'm glad my other relatives stay around the same neighbourhood. I miss my dear niece, Ying Ni, the naughty adorable one. I also miss my dear grandma, whom is always looking forward for me to bring back someone.

Thanks for all the friends for meeting up!! :) Following are some photos and there are more on my Facebook. :) Enjoy!!

For more photos:

• http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=162091&id=598271849&l=65b844f2fe
• http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=163140&id=598271849&l=595ae52ba5
• http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=163263&id=598271849&l=ef503ade0b

Cheers!!

things are unpredictable!!

It's been 23 days since the new year started and what can I say, the journey have not been easy for me.

I'm hoping to get good news and all but it's not really coming smoothly. When you kinda wish things would happen it would kind of disappoint you a bit but delaying the results. So, how to work things then things are getting stuck? Wish me the very best. I believe we are working hard for that something to happen!!!! So, may the good luck comes...

Ironically, when you do not expect things to happen, it just keep coming every round. What happen you may ask? HAHA! I attempted to play texas holdem poker with the guys last night. Usually, I enjoy watching them play and seeing them go pokerfaced with one another and last week, I did mention I would play if they are doing it this week again. I was thinking, why not donate some money and enjoy playing with them and see. So, they were playing a few rounds until I decided to join in with my housemate after playing wii. So, i started playing with $10 first. Then, lost it all in a few rounds. Then, I bought in another $10. Then things started to get a bit freaky. Every round I play, when I thought I no way close, I get good hands. Keep doing it for a lot of rounds. Until my friends left the game, came back in and all, they still did not change the wind of good hands. It's not that I play pokerface or what, I did try some rounds faking it, but still the last card came in just surprised me sometimes. Well, at the end, I won about $33 profit. Yes getting back the initial investment of $20 and also profit!! How freaky is it, I'll let Ming Yow tell you stories.. HAHA!! I just enjoyed seeing their face when my cards came out. Anyway, being a non gambler person, I used the profit for breakfast this morning since we played all night till morning. Yes, crazy!! :) So, when you don't hope for anything big, it just kinda come your way. Conclusion, the guys are not playing poker at our house anymore as they claimed there is jampi in the house that makes both me and joy win respectively. :)

Life is so unpredictable. So, how are we going to know whether things will work our way or not. It's the same with relationships too. Now, at 25.. and turning 26 in 7 months time, I'm feeling pressured. Though my parents did not really pressure me on it, but I know very well time is ticking. Many friends my age are either in a stable relationship or some even got married and had kids. Oh my. Mum even talked to a chinese medium and she concluded saying that I should take my time and don't rush in getting a guy, 26 years old still ok, it's the new generation. Even she knows I am looking. Haha. Well, since what she said, I kinda knew that the Mr Right is not around yet. I just hope I do not be so blind not to see him when he passed by. So, now, I'm doing the same like what I did for poker, do not expect anything.. as maybe it might or might not happen. :) Wish me luck!!

So, the conclusion of this post is with things being unpredictable, somethings will either happen or not, but if you believe in yourself and have faith and hope that something nice would happen, it might just happen when you least expected it to happen. :)

New Year, New Look, New Journey

Welcome 2010!! Finally it's the new year and I spent the past few hours waiting for the fireworks and all. But I am so 'SMART' that I packed all the necessary gears and all for the camp of waiting for the fireworks and forgot my DLSR's SD memory card. So smart to start the year. :) So, whatever photos I post here today would be credits to friends. But I did a video shoot and it's not very good condition so, I'll leave that out until I edit it. :)

But I would highly credit Justin Oh, a friend of mine that did his fabulous video shoot and photo shoot. :)

Sydney Fireworks 2010 NYE from Justin Oh on Vimeo.

As for photos, thanks to audrey for some really nice shots.. :) I'll just put one up. The rest, check her facebook.. :)

Credit to Audrey Lian

So, there you go a night of fireworks and that is how Sydney welcomed it with a bang. Even mum told me she was going to rush to the phone to ask my aunt to watch it from Astro but she knocked her leg and ended up to watch the whole thing in pain. Aiks...

Basically, we started that morning doing crazier thing like taking shoots of the opera house on the first morning of 2010. We wanted to do the sunrise but because we woke up late and it was rather cloudy, it's hard to see the best sunrise. So, this is my shot of the day, first day of 2010. :)

We carried on going to Pancakes on the Rocks for breakfast and went back home to sleep after that as we are all sleep deprived. Then I managed to get up for lunch with Brian as he was in town visiting with Michael. The rest of the day was pretty simple, spending girl time with Audrey and finally brought her to MAMAK where she was so happy with her meal. :)

That's a nice first day of the year 2010. :) And yes.. I did a change to my blog... just thought to make it more personal.. i should love my smile more.. :) And that's how I'm going to start the journey.. :)

Last Day of the Year 2009

It's just an hour after I did a whole December recap. And I'm supposed to wake up later to go Circular Quay AGAIN for NYE!! This would be my 3rd year watching the fireworks. To to think of it, it had been so long since I'm in Sydney.

So, tomorrow's a new year and to recap back I've done some decent achievements that I've set to do well and there are some.. unfinished ones that I will bring forward to the new year, making sure I fulfill in doing them in the year 2010.

The achievements to-do list that is successfully done:

1. Get my Permanent Resident Status - Yay!! Got it in June 2009.
2. Expanding Ivory & Co - Some sort, we had an extra partner and added the delivery services.
3. Do better in Netball :)
4. NCG 2009 - in July 2009 and was kind of happy with what I managed to achieved.
5. M-fest 2009 - I'm most impressed with myself and my team on this. Best ever M-fest reviews.. :)
6. Improve Photography skills - managed to learn many new skills, but there are more to learn.

So, now.. the new list:

1. Do another course, be it my passion or master or whatever.
2. Business Venture
3. Healthier Lifestyle
4. Music - Learning the Guitar
5. Be stronger mentally and more focus in life.
6. Mini Projects :)
7. Visit a country :)

That would be the base of all my targets of 2010. May I have a the courage and faith to make sure I reach my success this 2010. I can definitely defeat the the obstacles or so.

Bye 2009, it have been a great year!! Welcome 2010, it will be a greater year!! :) To end the year 2009, I dedicate this remix of Top 25 Songs of 2009 by DJ Earworm. Enjoy!! :)

the month of sunny december 2009

I meant to blog more this month but still couldn't do it due to my busy social calendar. :)

Anyway, December 2009 is here.. and it's about to come to an end. I bet everyone of you out there would agree, this year passed by like lighting. I would still remember clearly what happened last Christmas party and all and now, it's the same month one year after.

So, just to update a little about what big things happened the past one month, here you go. The month started with a little project I set to make it happen for Ms Vanessa Lim, my dearest housemate. I realised I have not really celebrate her birthday with her since I knew her and with her having her homesick chat with me a week before the big day, I decided to make a little dedication video for her. Thanks to her dear family and friends from Malaysia and Sydney for making it all happen. If you all would like to check it out, watch the following clip:

Obviously, she's happy and surprised. I baked her chocolate cheesecake and it's super sinful!!

To add on to it, we had dinner at Pancakes on the Rocks. :)

After that, more food ventures coming, with Ms Angeline Lew's birthday. We head to I'm Angus Steakhouse and celebrated it with everyone in PURPLE. I just attempted to make the Magnolia Vanilla Cupcakes with simple piping and gummy sweets for her. Well, I bet her best presents besides us celebrating with her, something special finally happened. I will leave it for her to tell people herself. :)

Then, Diane and I organised a surprise for Ms Lynn Lum. Since her birthday had passed and she was not around in Sydney then, we thought would be good to organise something for her. We planned many things but well nothing really turned out as we wanted but finally we just went ahead with dinner plans at Maloney's. I baked her a triple chocolate cheesecake and glad that she loved it. Most importantly, what was supposed to be a MASA gathering, she was indeed surprised that it was meant for her. :)

Right after that day was the Jen-Joy-Jean Xmas Party 2009. It is an annual effort that I tried to maintain, having a christmas party every year and so this year is the 3rd year. With Vanessa joining the host list, we got more friends that we invited and all and my wish that the party did not end so decently early, came true. The night started being abit simple as everyone chatted and catch up with one another and all. Thanks to all who brought food and drinks, we ended up having lots of leftovers. By 11.30pm, many have left and head back home but those who are still at the party, started the dance floor and more drinking sessions continued. It was indeed one of the best night ever and one of the best house parties I've ever hosted. :)

With that, both my housemates left for holidays, leaving me alone for the entire holiday season. Well, I did have relatives around and they went venturing Sydney while I do other stuff. On Xmas Day, Dominic invited us over for Xmas lunch where he baked a big leg ham with veges with smoked salmon and buns.

After lunch, I head over to Junda's house party and to end up drinking shots for being late. I would admit I was abit high after those shots, but I kept myself under controlled. That night, Yien Von, Min Li, Michael and I went to Mamak for dinner. After that, the girls stayed over my place for Boxing Day the next day.

Boxing Day was crazy. This year, the crowd is far bigger than last year as we see people lining up all sorts of stores. Yien Von and I just stay close so that we don't lose each other at sight among the crazy crowd and I am glad I got 2 dresses from Myers for $100. My total damage is about $300 after buying stuff for family. :)

On 27th December, after my relatives left back to Melb, I organised a home dinner, calling a few people and have a nice dinner. Great company, great food. The night ended with watching movie and some of them end up sugarhigh, the house just filled with laughters.

Then, Dominic's birthday came and we went to Iron Chef Restaurant at Cabramatta. I was introduced to some of his other friends and was a great night. :)

(added on 7 Jan 09, credit to Clarrie for photos :) )

Then the next few days are all day trips!! Pek Lynn and Diane suggested going for some road trips but time wasn't on our side so we decided to go short trips to places. We went Palm Beach and Watsons Bay for the 2 days and so we enjoyed ourselves to cam-whoring and the laughters. :)

One post coming up before the new year.. :)

I finally experience it..

Yes, I finally experience it.. What? Experience working in a very interesting environment. Yes, I'm working. :)

Some people when I told them I'm working, it's like the world ought to know what kind of job I land myself into. It is a casual job while I'm dealing with the business. So, all I do is actually making decorative stuff for christmas and install them at different places like hotels and pubs and all. It's pretty interesting even though it is uncertain hours and I actually got burnt using glue guns and all, but it's overall a good experience. I'm working for a company which does visual merchandising, decorating and all. What makes me enjoy the job is seeing all the hard work we put in, ended up in nice displays of the hotels and all. I also really salute Megan, the boss. She is very hands on person and I believe the reason she keeps getting called back for jobs from clients is because she make sure everything is perfect and stick to her principles. I definitely would be able to learn a lot from her, if I ever start up my wedding planner job. :)

Table Decorations We Made

Decorations at Marriott Hotel, Circular Quay

I don't dare to put too much out.. just a bit here and there. :) Later my boss saw. :)

Spring? or not Spring?

Yes, it's actually Spring but the weather is like Summer already. Well, I still prefer cool breeze over hot sun. I wonder how's the summer would be like this year..

Anyway, what have I been doing? Busy with what I would say WORK for me, trying to get a store for our business.. yes you hear it.. well.. have been juggling it with opportunities come and go.. just wishing for the best one to come now... haizz.. who says starting a business is easy? Haha, was having this simple conversation with Bernard yesterday and he, on the other hand complaining who says working for people is easy? So, life is complicated. Things won't fall into place and land on our hands to grab it.. it is our hands that should reach out and grab it. So, I now hope i'm a spider or something that have alot of hands to reach out and get whatever comes along. HOPE FOR THE BEST!!

I think Spring is a nice season, as I realise it's the season for people to reunite or catch up. Recently, I had many chats with old friends and all, catching up and all on MSN and emails. And it makes me miss home. Again, it's like sitting on a fence situation, it's not that I don't like Sydney or don't like Malaysia for any reason but life in both places are going to be different. So, I'll leave for future to tell me which is most suitable.

At the same time, spring is supposed to be a season of love. As Sunny once said, every year after M-fest, someone tend to get hooked up. And yes someone did.. :) While just searching for new songs that are out.. I came across this following song and the lyrics really sound very true.. :) enjoy..

The Rose - Aoi Teshima

Some say love it is a river
that drowns the tender reed
Some say love it is a razor
that leaves your soul to bleed
Some say love it is a hunger
an endless aching need
I say love it is a flower
and you its only seed

It's a heart afraid of breaking
that never learns to dance
It's the dream afraid of waking
that never takes the chance
It's the one who won't be taken
who cannot seem to give
and the soul afraid of dying
that never learns to live


When the night has been too lonely
and the road has been too long
and you think that love is only
for the lucky and the strong
Just remember in the winter
far beneath the bitter snows
lies the seed that with the sun's love
in the spring becomes the rose.

..i'm breaking up with him after 5 years..

Haha.. you all would be wondering who? ahhaha.. it's M-fest only la. If it's someone, I don't think I would even blog about it. Maybe I might, but it would sound so unlike a breakup. :)


Anyway, yes, finally done with M-fest, though is not really ended as I'm still saving my treasurer's ass.. tsk tsk but AGM is done and we have the new committee on the roll.. Making my ending speech is like I'm lost at words. I know what I wanted to say, but I couldn't put them into writing. And I cannot cracked it out on the spot as I know I might break down. :( Anyway, at least I'm done with it. When I surprised my committee with handmade cards, they gave me a surprise as well. In fact 2 surprise. One, a committee photo frame with their wishes. Two, thanks to Ananda as I actually mention I wanted the soft toy, which I have yet to name it until now.

Peekaboo.. :)

Thanks to Edi, Eric, Shwuch, Ananda, Sabrina, Mo and Ashwin. LOVE it!! Haha.. some of you must be wondering why I'm so hyper about it. Cuz it's adorable and I really like soft toy.. :)

Anyway, congrats to Eric, Sab, Stef, Logann, Xian, Wing, Vimal and Li Ying for becoming the next M-fest committee.. Good Luck.. :)..