Your Place or Mine?

Cooking: 20-min One-Pot Chinese Steamed Chicken & Rice with Shiitake & Ginger

2011-11-28T20:46:00.001Z

This has got to be one of my favourite all-time meals and it's extremely easy to make. It's perfect for that cold winter night or a lazy night. It takes about 10 minutes prep time and 20 minutes cooking time. Take that Jamie Oliver!!!

20-min One-Pot Chinese Steamed Chicken & Rice with Shiitake Mushroom & Ginger

(serves 3, 2 if you're very hungry)

1 package of Skinless Chicken Thigh Fillets (about 475g)

1 package of fresh Shiitake Mushroom (about 125g)

1" x 1/2" ginger thinly julienned

1/4 tsp White Pepper

1 tsp Sugar

1 tbsp Light Soy

1/2 tsp Salt (can add more after to taste)

1/4 tsp Chicken Stock Powder (extra chicken flavour)

1 tsp Toasted Sesame Oil

300 ml Jasmine Rice (with dry deciliter measuring cup)

Directions:

Cut chicken into 1/2" to 1" pieces put in a large bowl.
Remove stem from mushroom, julienne, put into chicken bowl.
Add seasoning (julienned ginger, white pepper, sugar, light soy, sesame oil, salt, chicken stock powder) into the chicken bowl and mix well. Set aside.
In a large non-stick saucepan, add rice & 500-550 ml (same measuring cup) of water into the pan. Cover, boil on medium-high heat until water becomes bubbly (boiling).
Turn heat to low, add chicken mixture covering every inch of pan. Put lid on and let it simmer for about 15-20 mins.
Check in with chicken rice at about 10min mark to see if it's cook through.
Turn off heat. Stir. Serve. Done.

Chef's notes:

I recommend using skinless chicken thigh fillets for this dish because breast is much tougher when steamed.
If no fresh Shiitake Mushroom is available, you can use dried, but rehydrate with hot water.
If you want to add some vegetable to the meal, please do, bok choi or Chinese cabbage will be great addition. You would like to add this 5 minutes to the pot before serving.

Photography: First Shots

2011-11-26T17:33:00.002Z

Photography is something I've always aspired to learn and love. I know nothing about cameras (even though I'm quite technology savvy) and lighting. As a graphic designer, what we know is good composition and art direction which helps with my lacking photographic skills I suppose. Any willing photography teacher, please apply within!

Below are some of my photographs from my recent holiday. What do you think?

The Big Apple. New York City

The Soho Building. Soho, New York City

Parsons. Union Square, New York City.

Urban Jungle, view from The High Line.
Meat Packing District, New York City.

Salle Wilfred-Pelletier, Place des Arts. Montréal, Canada

Place des Arts. Montréal, Canada


Toronto Eaton Centre. Toronto, Canada

Discovering London: Broadway Market Revisited 1906 vs 2011

2011-05-14T13:39:00.001+01:00

Our office is situated in a very interesting part of London. It's in the middle between Aldgate, Fenchurch and Tower Hill stations. Despite the new stylish Mint Hotel and all other modern City offices and skyscrapers, we were still around by historic London. A couple colleagues at work and I took this opportunity and started a lunchtime walking club – Wednesday Walking Club.

Last week, our walk was based on revisiting sites featured in "Lost London 1870-1945" by Philip Davies and comparing what has remained or changed in 2011. From this book, I also found images of my neighbourhood in 1906. It was too tempting not to write a post about my hood's Then and Now.

Please note that all THEN images were extracted from this book.

THEN: 75-77 Broadway, London Fields, 16 October 1906
The dogs seem more interested in Rosesnberg's the family butcher rather than the dog food shop next door, which has a finely-detailed canted bay shopfront coruscated with colourful enamel advertisements.

NOW: 75-77 Broadway Market, London Fields, 4 May 2011
Once Rosenberg's butcher shop is now vintage furniture shop Stella Blunt. The pet shop next door is now the artzy Donlon Books.

THEN: 85 Broadway, London Fields, 16 October 1906
P.J. Ryan, tobacconists, with a fascinating amount of contemporary detail. The advertising lantern is angled to throw light onto the shop window which advertises Victory V gums and Fry's chocolate. The Daily Mirror announces a major mine disaster in Durham with 10 killed and 150 entombed. The poster above the neighbouring shop offers the entire street block for immediate redevelopment, but similar parts of Broadway still exist.

Now: 85 Broadway Market, London Fields, 4 May 2011
I was surprised to learn that this has remained as a cornershop in 2011!

I approached the shopkeeper with my photocopy of page 237 from the book, I asked if he has seen this, he said "that's my shop." Apparently, The Hackney Citizen has covered this story a few years ago. This cornershop has overtaken the shop next to it. Broadway Market used to be just named Broadway in 1906, Lansdowne Road is now Lansdowne Drive. Once postal code NE is now E8.

If you're interested in our Wednesday Walking Club, we walk on Wednesdays around 1pm (unless we are on a deadline), check our website or follow us on Twitter for details.

Do you know any of your neighbourhood history? How has your neighbourhood changed over the years? Good? Bad? Gentrification?

Reblog: I've been blogged

2011-04-26T23:26:00.002+01:00

Visit meredithphoto.tumblr.com

I feel rather narcissistic reblogging this on here and frankly a bit embarrassed too. *blush* =^_^=

This was my first professional photoshoot and it was for Hermès store window, this was shot last year end of February. I have no previous modelling experience at all and I've learned loads from this memorable experience. Andrew was a pleasure to work with and definitely worth a mention!

Now for some pluggin'... Andrew is an extraordinary (not to mention – award-winning) interior/architecture/portraiture photographer to some of world renowned magazines (Design Week, Mark Magazine (great for architecture and typographic eye-candy), Frame and Elle Décor Italia... etc) and for clients like Chanel, Burberry, Selfridges, Hermès (I've worked with him for two occasions: Hermès pour Liberty and store window which I've previously blogged about) and other clients too many to mention!

All this aside, he still finds time to work on personal projects such as: Excursions, Slaughtermen, Model Village, Mountain Men (my favourite!) and his recent Progress, Peace, Prosperity (loving this one too) in Gambia. Oh, did I mention he also photographed one of Kayne West's album cover artwork? – *Phew* A very, very busy man!

Visit his website at Andrew Meredith Photography

For his most recent work, visit his blog at meredithphoto.tumblr.com

Follow him on Twitter at twitter.com/ameredithphoto

Cooking: Langoustines 3-Ways: Céviche, Caviar on Crostini & Aromatic Poached

2011-04-25T11:54:00.025+01:00

Langoustines from Fin & Flounder £11.58

I don't normally cook seafood at home, the packaged fish at the supermarket has always been so off-putting. Since the opening of Fin & Flounder around the corner, it's been much accessible to learn and purchase fresh seafood. I remember having dinner at Bocca di Lupo last summer and ordered Cruditá di mare (raw sea bream, red prawn, scallop with rosemary oil – sm £9.50 lg £19.00) they ran out of prawns and replaced with langoustines. The sweetness of the langoustines, rosemary oil lifting earthiness of scallops, it was a heaven! This dish was so fantastic that a second round order was absolutely inevitable! That was my first experience with langoustines at its best – fresh and raw.

This is like mini lobster, could be intimidating to buy but worth it!

Adam gave me a langoustine with roes, and three males. I couldn't make up my mind on how to cook them, since they are fresh, I decided to have them three ways: céviche, the roe I'll put them on toast and light poached in an aromatic bath.

Aromatic Poached Langoustine with Olive Oil & Lemon

Langoustines in aromatic bath

Aromatic Poached Langoustines
Serves 1

3 Langoustines (usually 3-6 per person)
10 Black Peppercorns
2 Bay Leaves
1 Small bunch of parsley
Good Slug of White Wine
Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Flaked Sea Salt

Pull the leaves off the parsley and save them for later.
In a large pan, fill in water to about 1/4 of the pan, add peppercorn, bay leaves, parsley stalks and a good slug of White Wine, bring to boil.
Once the bath is boiled, add salt and in goes the langoustines. Use a laddle to keep pouring hot liquid over the langoustines. Keep doing so about 4 minutes.
Get the langoustines out of the pan. Put the cooked langoustines onto plates then drizzle them with olive oil and scatter with parsley and sea salt, squeezing over lemon juice

Chef's notes: This is inspired by one of Nigel Slater's 50 favourites summer recipe off the Guardian, his recipe calls for a deep pan of water, but I was afraid to over cook them, by keep pouring hot liquid over them is a way to have them evenly cooked without over boiling them. I also added a good slug of white wine to add more depth.

Another close up look at the dish

Langoustine Céviche with Caviar Crostini

Langoustine Céviche
Serves 1

1 Langoustine
Drizzle of Extra Virgin Olive Oil
1 lemon wedge
1 tsp chopped parsley

Turn the langoustine over on its back, and use a very sharp knife, cut through the middle of the abdomen.
Use a pairing knife to loosen the meat from the shell.
Drizzle olive oil, squeeze lemon and sprinkle parsley on top.

Chef's notes: I was a bit nervous in preparing the céviche, the cutting part was the worst because the langoustine was still alive. So if you're squeamish, this dish might not be for you. In hind sight, I should have made an infused rosemary oil instead.

Langoustine with Roe – I'm about to become a serial langoustine baby murderer!!

Langoustine Caviar Crostini

Langoustine Caviar Crostini
Serves 1

1 langoustine with roe
1 Italian stick or French baguette
1 tsp of Mayonnaise
Butter or Olive Oil

Preheat oven to 200ºC/400ºF
Extract the roe from langoustine with a spoon, put them into a small dish, set aside.
Slice bread and either butter or drizzle with olive oil on both side, put on baking tray and into the oven until golden brown and toasted.
After crostini has been toasted, spread a thin layer of mayonnaise and garnish with langoustine roe on top. Serve whilst crostini is still warm.

This dinner was slightly expensive but sometimes one needs a treat and indulge with lovely food. Simply prepared fresh langoustines tastes its best this way.

What do you think? Have you cooked something you haven't tried before? How did the dish turned out?

Fashion + Design: A Design Story – The Making of Sweaty Betty Everyday Lookbook 2010

2011-04-22T15:13:00.016+01:00

Graphic Design is about the creative process, from concept to production, it needs enormous of attention in details and planning. Since I haven't posted for a long time, I thought to share a design story and a bit of behind the scene with you. Let's travel back in time to August 2010...

I never realised fitness has such an important and significant role in my life until two summers ago. I've been a loyal Sweaty Betty member for quite a long time now, I pay weekly pilgrimage to their Circuit, Yoga and Pilate in-store classes. Last year, whilst I was casually shopping on their website, I noticed they were hiring for a Senior Graphic Designer – a perfect job for me!!

I lack fashion graphic design experience and to stand out from my competitors, I've decided to go the extra mile. I always have to rush to their classes after work, not giving too much time to change, so I usually incorporate my exercising gear into my workwear on exercise days. The girls at Sweaty Betty always asked me "how do you manage to look great coming here straight from work, work out, and go out afterwards?" This has inspired me to produce an everyday lookbook to illustrate my passion in fashion, understanding their brand and their philosophy, and of course, my skills in graphic design.

The challenge
This project had a very tight time frame and resources are limited – from concept to finished production, I managed to complete all this in just 5 days!

Outfit Testsheet & Bible for Photoshoot

Day One: The Concept
• Creative & Art Direction and Concept Development – A6 20pp perfect bound mini lookbook
• Pagination Layout – 6 Themes/12 Outfits
• Fashion styling & testshots

The idea of this Everyday Lookbook is an additional marketing material on top of its seasonal catalogue. This lookbook will be a great marketing campaign to encourage addition sales beyond customers who purchase Sweaty Betty merchandise only for exercising. I've gained significant knowledge of their target customers from observations whilst shopping and attending their weekly in-store classes throughout the years. I thought to create the "Sweaty Betty Girl" – a day in life, what would she be doing? What is her lifestyle?

After some 48 outfits and over 96 combinations, I've nailed down to 12 outfits for the six lifestyle and exercise types.

The six themes comprising:

Something for the weekend – Boxercise
Beyond the nine-to-five – Pilates
Let's go shopping – Yoga
A romantic date – Yoga
Night out with the girls – Dance
Art gallery opening – Running

I needed to hold back on the styling from being too editorial looking, after all, this is an everyday lookbook. Creating this initial styling testshot was important for me to see what works and what doesn't. If you have eagle eyes, you will notice some accessories changes in the final lookbook.

Printed sheets ready to create signatures

Day Two: The Production
• Research on bookbinding
• Sourcing bookbinding, knitting & printing material
• Gathering all materials/outfits needed for photoshoot
• Copywriting

I have created numerous mock-ups during my education at Ontario Colledge of Art and Design (OCAD) despite I was majored in Packaging Design, surprisingly, there was never an opportunity to fabricate a perfect bound book. Many thanks to the internet and forum like Craftster and YouTube, I was able to learn sewing signatures and the art of bookbinding.

I went to Shepherds Bookbinders (76 Southampton Row, London WC1B 4AR ☎ 020 7831 1151), for all the bookbinding materials. I show their staff and my printing material and they were very knowledgeable and helpful to advise me on ideas and materials I need for the project.

Err... copywriting is my nightmare, I was never good at writing – I express visually. Actually, writing for this lookbook wasn't too difficult at all as it was mostly inspired from personal experiences.

Running on the Broadwalk of Brighton

Day Three: The Brighton Photoshoot
• Make-up & Hair
• Train to Brighton
• Location scouting
• Photoshoot
• Select testshot images & audience feedback

I originally wanted to have the photoshoot around London Fields, Broadway Market and the Regent's Canal, after consulting with my friend Laura Kirkke (she's an amazing artisté, illustrator and photographer, check her out!) who photographed all images used in the lookbook, Brighton seems to be a more suitable location. This is a time I wish my sister was in London (she's a brilliant hair and makeup artist – check her out here). I had to set my hair, do my own make-up, packed all outfits and took the train down to Brighton.

It was a sunny hot day in Brighton, we used Laura's studio as a base for changing the looks and re-styling on hair and make-up. We shoot both outdoors and inside the studio and managed to complete the shoot before dusk. Then we went through the entire film and highlighted the ones we've liked, burned images onto disk and I head back to London.

Sample page layout from lookbook

Day Four: The Design
• Final decision on selecting images
• Digital imaging & retouching photos where necessary
• Design and layout of lookbook
• Outwork for proofreading

After collecting feedback on images, I finalised the images and retouched any where necessary. Finally, design layout time! The lookbook is finally coming together. Lastly, I sent to my journalist friend Zara for proofreading. Tomorrow will be finishing day.

Finished perfect bound Lookbooks

Day Five: The Finishing
• Print production with home printer
• Trim, score, sew & bind
• Knit mini bag & sew on StayStylish label
• Create digital lookbook where links products to website
• Create application website

I had to make a few copies of the book, for the purpose of testing, screw-ups and practising sewing signatures and the binding. In additional to the lookbook, I also knitted a mini version of the yoga bag I knitted featured in the lookbook. The lookbook will go into the knitted bag, complete with my little StayStylish label. To demonstrate my creativity in marketing, I have also created an interactive e-book, where one can click on the product and directly link to their website and purchase. Finally, to accompany to my application, I have also created a website where their HR department can download my covering letter, CV, link to e-book and online portfolio.

Detailed look at the mini spines of the book

Day Six: The Delivery
• Finalise CV, covering letter, email application digitally
• Travel across the city to deliver application package in person to head office

Finished Lookbook with knitted bag

Outcome & Experience
By going the extra mile, Sweaty Betty was very impressed with the hand bound lookbook and the amount of work I have put into, it was definitely the most creative job application they have ever received to date. This has landed me an interview, but unfortunately I was not hired for the job due to my portfolio being "too diverse" (I never understand why this is always a set back when I look for work in the UK!), "too corporate" and lack of fashion graphic design experience.

It was heartbreaking that I didn't get the job. To add more to the injury, a fortnight after my submission, they held a streetstyle photo contest on Facebook where followers send in their photos of them mixing Sweaty Betty merchandise and streetwear! Since my submission, they have also started to create online catalogues similar to my e-book. Err!

Despite all, I am very proud of this project: art direction, styling, hair & make-up, modelling, lookbook concept, design, production, finishing and copy were all done by myself. This not only makes a great portfolio piece and a design story, I fell in love with bookbinding.

For testshots and more photos from this project, please see my Flickr set.

Click here to view the final lookbook.

What do you think? Have you ever gone the extra mile for an job application? How did it turned out? How do you protect your ideas?

Cooking: Les moules et les frites avec l'aïoli

2011-04-18T00:25:00.005+01:00

I haven't posted for a while, so hello and thanks for reading!

Here's another reason to love my neighbourhood – I love my new-ish (opened in 2010) local fishmongers Fin & Flounder (71 Broadway Market, London E8 4PH Tel: 0783 8018395). Their seafood are sustainably caught, reasonably priced and the guys are very knowledgeable despite they're all young. What I like about them is that they bring back the nostalgia of a local fishmonger – a bit of chit chat, they are passionate about what they do and their enthusiasm to get to know their customers even if it's by means of Twitter.

Last week, I dreamt of a big bowl of Moules Frites. On Saturday, I went down to Broadway Market to purchase some mussels from Fin & Flounder. I had no time to make my own sourdough bread that day (it needs some premeditation – I need to plan and prepare at least a day before making one, it really deserves its own post) so I went to E5 Bakehouse for it, it was hot off the oven too! One stop shop, I can get everything in my hood! London Fields was absolutely heaving, the Lobsters were out but sadly left all their rubbish behind when I return from my run in the evening. Shame on them!

This recipe takes on a bit of Nigella/Delia approach. It's okay to cheat a little, sometimes. These oven frites are a much easier and healthy alternative to deep frying or double frying chips. I don't have the patience on this occassion and it's too much work deep frying frankly. Oh, the aïoli is also lazy made too.

Recipe Serves 1

For Frites:
2 medium sized yellow fleshed or russet potatoes
1-2 tablespoon olive oil
4 sprigs fresh thyme, or 1 1/2 teaspoons dried
Sea salt and freshly ground pepper

Preheat oven to 425ºF/200ºC. Leave the skin on, cut potatoes lengthwise into thick slices, then into 1/2-inch-by-1/2-inch-thick strips. Place them in a bowl of cold water until ready to use. Drain and dry proper on kitchen towels.
Toss potatoes with oil and spread out on a baking sheet / roasting pan. Scatter thyme sprigs over potatoes. Bake for 25 to 35 minutes, turning occasionally, until potatoes are brown and crisp on all sides. Meanwhile prepare mussels (see below instruction 1 for Moules Marinière)
Remove from oven, discard thyme stems (the leaves will have fallen off), sprinkle with sea salt and pepper.

Note: Only cook the mussels when the potatoes are nearly ready, the mussels takes no time to cook! If you're twirling thumbs looking for things to do, then it's a good time to prepare the aïoli.

For Lazy Aïoli:
1 small clove of garlic
1 teaspoon of prepared Coleman's tartar sauce
3 teaspoon of store-bought mayonnaise

Press the clove of garlic through a garlic press into a dipping bowl.
Combine tartar sauce and mayonnaise with the garlic and mix well. Let sit and allows flavour to mingle before serving.

For Moules Marinière:
1/2 lb fresh & live mussels, scrubbed and debearded
(General rule is 1/2 to 1 lb mussels per person but get a few more in case you need to discard some)
1 medium finely minced shallot
4 sprigs of thyme
2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
Small knob of butter
1 small glass of white wine of choice
Pinch of coarse sea salt

Preparing mussels: DO NOT soak them in water, this will kill them because they live in sea water! Give each mussel a little tab to see if it closes, if it doesn't, it's dead. Discard. If its shell is cracked, discard. Use a scrub pad or brush to give the mussels a good scrub. Remove any barnacles if necessarily. To debeard, pull the beard towards the crack joint of the shells, sometimes they can be a bit tough, go on, give it a bit of elbow grease, will ya?
Put mussels, butter, wine, shallots, salt, and thyme in a medium pot. Cover, and cook over high heat, shaking pot occasionally, until mussels open, about 4 minutes. Discard any unopened shells. Sprinkle with parsley; gently toss. Serve with toasted butter bread.

For more photos and to see my other gastronomic treats, please see my Flickr album.

Design: Infographic on Infographics - Neville Brody vs David McCandless on Newsnight

2010-08-12T17:45:00.000+01:00

This great infographic by Toby Bradbury from Mrlerone.com has encapsulated Monday (09 Aug 2010) Newsnight's much heated debate on infographics shown on BBC2. The show featured journalist and designer, David McCandless (who also blogs about infographics), and infamous graphic designer of our times, Neville Brody. Watch all the design fuss from Newsnight infographics debate, visit the BBC iPlayer here (segment starts from about 26 mins in).

General consent is that this debate is pointless (see Creative Review Blog), I think both are too extreme from the spectrum. I am a graphic designer and I love infographics, having said that. I both agree and disagree with Brody and McCandless. There's absolutely nothing wrong with McCandless' finding from India, the bus maps which in this case to simplify complicated bus routes for people (if they have access to these maps).

I agree with Brody that when something is too overly designed to the point of losing the message, that defeats the origin and purpose of Graphic Design/Visual Communication. After all, in my opinion (see Staystylish.com click on "Manifesto"), Graphic Design is about marrying function and aesthetic, creating a system of design through thoughts, integrating design with technology, and utilizing technology to communicate. We are often too mesmerised by the new technology and let it overshadow the initial message we wanted to communicate, which is in the case with McCandless triangle diagram. Brody was right, it did not provoke any feelings. It was just "pretty" information presentation. McCandless might have presented his findings clearly but it wasn't communicating the "message".

I think Toby Bradbury has clearly mocked this Newsnight debate, read his tiny by line beneath the little colour cubes: "Just ignore this bit, it's just pretty colours. Everyone loves that s***. I can say that each colour represents a type of word. Would that be enough reason? Okay, that's it. In fact, no. The colours denote "trends" in the conversation, read by some system I'll never explain to anyone."

Design & Gardening: Design Museum's Designs of the Year 2010 & Window Farms

2010-08-11T12:37:00.003+01:00

Photo from www.designsoftheyear.com

I was at the Design Museum this past weekend for the Brit Insurance Designs of the Year 2010 exhibition. This exhibition was worth a see, there are lots of inspiring ideas from architecture, fashion, furniture, graphic, interactive, product and transport designs including this year's winner Min-Kyu Choi with his Folding Plug.

The museum was also showing Sustainable Futures that showcases the changing role of the designer and reveals how design can make a difference. There were a few good ideas but I didn't feel this exhibition was very comprehensive as it focused mostly on environmental design. The food/ecology section was interesting but wasn't ground breaking.

Recently, my very good friend Heather from Backyard Farms Toronto has send me this post from Design*Sponge and I thought New York's Window Farms was much smarter, accessible and easier to build one yourself. Window Farms are vertical hydroponic vegetable gardens growing from recycled materials (such as water bottles), clay pellets, and equipment that can easily be purchased inexpensively from any local hardware store. There are kits available from the Window Farms website but unfortunately not for sale internationally. Good news is there are tutorials on how to build one from scratch in their Community section of their website.

Photo from WindowFarms Flickr

Last year, I've turned my bathroom into a greenhouse (unfortunately there was an aphids plague and killed all my plants). This year I've started a mini window still garden – basil, thyme, chilli, sage, lemon, parsley and tomatoes. I'm inspired and intrigued to build a Window Farm. It is a great alternative to curtains or to block that ugly view from your window and also grow your own fresh herbs and vegetables.

eFolio: Staying stylish with Elsie at www.staystylish.com

2010-08-09T00:27:00.003+01:00

At last, my online portfolio is now ready. Please check out www.staystylish.com.

I'm an experienced graphic designer based in London, UK looking for a permanent full-time position with a creative firm. I am an Associate of Ontario College of Art & Design with over 10 years industry experience in the UK and Canada, specialising in graphic design, branding, print, packaging, advertising and web design.

If you know anyone who may be interested or is looking for someone with passion for creative designs, please pass this along. I will be happy to send my CV and portfolio upon request.

Random: What Have I been Up to?

2010-07-19T14:12:00.001+01:00

I've decided to start a new blog about beauty and nails – Lacquer Boudoir. As you already know, I'm a make-up junkie. So thought to have somewhere to share my finds and my little contribution to fashion. Lacquer Boudoir just celebrated Chanel Week – all post and nail art inspired by Chanel. Have a look, feedback are welcome!

Surprisingly, this year Great Britain is blessed with hot and sunny weather. I even have a slight tan!! Now, that's a first! This year's gardening is more successful than last year's horrible pest plague that killed ALL my plants. Have basil, thyme, chilli peppers, lemon, sage, parsley and a tomato plant going. The blackberries in the garden should be ready any day now.

I haven't been posting much about food recipes lately, in the next few days, I hope to post my superfood salad. Bye for now! x

Fashion: Kirk Originals Spring/Summer 2010

2010-06-18T17:18:00.007+01:00

Hair: Tracey Cahoon @ clmuk. Makeup: Sharma @ clmuk.
Styling & Art Direction: Georgina Hodson. Photographer: Dominic Cooper.
Casting & Production: Laura Kay. ©2010 Kirk Originals.

Had a fabulous photoshoot with Kirk Originals for their Spring/Summer Collection 2010 earlier in April. The studio was just off Hackney Road – a stone throw away from me. After choosing the frames and the wallpaper with Georgina and Dominic, Tracey cleaned up my fringe, iron straight my hair and Georgina put me in the new Marc by Marc Jacobs sweater from this season. Sharma decided to leave my skin sheer because Georgina and Sharma were loving my freckles (my nightmare!!) but to have dramatic eyes. Here is the final photo:

This is the look book for their Spring/Summer collection (I'M THE CENTREFOLD!!):

Fashion: Hermès store photo shoot

2010-04-07T00:15:00.022+01:00

Photos from the Hermes shoot:

Clothing: model's own. All accessories: Hermès. Hair & Makeup: model's own.
Stylist: Laura Kay. Photographer: Andrew Meredith. ©2010

It was a relative mild day in late February when we went for this photoshoot in Mayfair. I first arrived at Hermes headquarters, stylist Laura had a look at my outfit choices we went for the jumpsuit – one of my favourite outfits and best bargain. After styling in headquarters, we headed off to South Moulton Lane for the shoot. Whoa, these boots are 2 sizes bigger than my tiny 37, and they were so high but surprisingly comfortable to walk in. It was slightly overcast at times. We reckon we got the "one" 10 minutes into the shoot but we played around some more ideas. It was a great experience and was lovely to work with Andrew and Laura again.

Store window photos (photos by me):

They went with the photo without the leather jacket, blown up to life size for the Hermès Sloane Street store window display. Yes, it is really life size!

Hermès, Sloane Street, London.

Hermès, Sloane Street, London.

If you happen to be around Knightsbridge, pop by and check out the window display of the Hermès store at 179 Sloane Street, London SW1X 9QP.

See other photo of me by Andrew Meredith from previous a Hermes shoot here.

Nightlife: Orphanage Valentine Dance

2010-02-18T23:56:00.002Z

Date: Saturday, 13th February, 2010
Event: Orphange Valentine Dance
Promoter: The Last Tuesday Society
Venue: Stone Horse Paper Cow (128-140 Bishopsgate, London EC2M 4HX. 020 7377 9555)
Who: Angela, Elsie, Hamish, Zara

Hamish and I were photographed by WeKnowWhatYouDidLastNight.com

Sychronised Travel Experiment

2009-10-08T21:49:00.001+01:00

Time: 9:34 EST
Location: Royal Bank of Canada, King Street West & Crawford, Toronto
Sychronised Travel Partner: Hamish

1) The first stage is your starting point.

We initially had to pick a similar location. Apparently there's a RBC near Farringdon. My starting point was the closest location of Royal Bank of Canada.

2) Walk in any direction for 50 to 100 paces, and then turn 180 degrees.

I walked north on Crawford. There was miles of nothingness and it was mostly residential, so I walked further than 100 paces just passed Adelaide then thought I went too far. When I turned around I found these two chairs tied to some yellow plastic. Later to realised further down there was a man who has just placed another set of chairs with a sign "DO NOT PARK HERE".

3) Continue walking in that direction until you see something blue.

Upon seeing the chairs, I turned slight right at an intersection. Something blue immediately caught my eye. (Okay, so if I have to stretch it, every car that was parked on the street has a blue Discover Ontario license plate. But I thought to dig deeper, or larger object...)

4) Make a left turn and walk 50 to 70 paces.

I made a left turn upon seeing the blue Beetle, continuing on the little street. I came upon this cleaning advertisement on a lamp post.

5) Walk in any direction until you see something that either is or looks like the number 7 or 11.

I continued walking on Walnut, then I hit, what do you know! A 7-11!

6) Take the first left, and continue walking until you find somewhere to sit.

I turned left onto Queen St W, I stopped in front of Clafouti's. Okay, so I also wanted a fig croissant and a coffee from here as well. One of my favourite bakeries in Toronto, as I've previously mentioned on here.

7) Choose any direction and walk for 25 to 50 paces.

8) Continue walking until you see an unusual colour, shape or texture. Turn 180 degrees.

I chose to walk from the same direction I've came from, 180 degree turn. Here, I cheated, I've combined 7) and 8). At exactly 70 pace, I stopped, there wasn't anything in front of me that were interesting but I noticed an alley way on my right. I always love alley ways and secret tunnels and such. The gated wire caught my eye, also along with the texture of the brick, the skeleton of the staircase and the glimspe of sunshine. Photographically, it was perfect. So I've decided to combine the two here.

9) Keep walking in any direction until you see an archway or an unusual architectural feature.

I turned 90 degree to my right, back onto Claufouti's, then to my left is the gate to Trinity Bellwoods park – the home of the Abino White Squirrel. Also, where I had numerous picnics and midnight brown paperbags with friends amongst my summers in Toronto. The gate is too beautiful not to notice and it's perfect for 9).

10) Head for home, but continue looking for something that catches your eye.

I was planning to go to my sister's place but instruction said to go home, so I did. I passed by one of the galleries on Ossington and this was its window display. As I was viewing these photos later, I finally noticed my lens was smudged but actually has created an interesting slight blurry effect to my photos, a bit of instant DIY lomography!

Epilogue

I enjoyed this little adventure very much. It was a gorgeous warm morning and the air was crisp. It was lovely to walk around the city, it was early enough to have a bit of morning travel, not too many people, very serene. I'm still shocked at how clean it was. And the idea of someone across the Atlantic Ocean is also experiencing the same adventure at the same time is appealing. I remember one similar experience where a friend and I decided to watch the same movie at different country then would ring up each other and talk about it. It's like you're living parallel lives at that same moment.

When I figure out how to map out my route via google, I'll re-post the link.

In-Flight Safety: Westbound

2009-10-04T01:42:00.003+01:00

This week has been quite shitty at work, perhaps it's the pressure before Sue's and my holiday. The day suddenly got busy with the Riverside job but I had to rush out of work. I still needed to run some errands at M&S as I've forgotten to bring the open-toe pantyhose for the wedding.

I rushed out the door at 15:40 heading to Hammersmith. My luggage were heavy and London was exceptionally hot for October. The Picadilly tube was quite packed, the man beside me was practically stepping on my shoe and wouldn't budge moving over slightly. I was annoyed. I rang Hamish and we talked for a bit. Kind of made me didn't want to leave London but I needed this break. I needed to get away.

I arrived at Terminal 3 at exactly 17:05. I love the notion of traveling somewhere. I love airports and train stations. I went to one of these check-in machines, and got my luggage tag. Checked in my leopard suitcase and headed upstairs for Departure. Passing customs was a breeze. Time for my favourite part – Duty Free Shopping! No expensive purchase this time at Gucci, though should have checked out the Bayswater bag from Mulberry. I bought the Clinque 3-steps travel-size kit, some makeup from MAC and the YSL touche eclat. I purchased a bottle of sparkling water from Starbucks and headed to Gate 30, the gate was closing as I arrived.

I sat by the window of K29. I could see the wing. The guy sat beside me had a heavy Canadian accent, almost forgot how that sounded like – friendly, eh. We waited for a few moments before we were to fly out. Perhaps it was the pressure of the plane (but we haven't took off yet?) or the bottle has simply been dropped onto the floor, for some reason, when I opened it, it sprayed all over! I felt terrible, but the guy next seat said was fine. He works for Enwave, and was in London for a conference. We talked about hockey a little.

During the flight, I watched "Away We Go". I love John Kransinski! Then I watched "Slumdog Millionaire", it was as good as I expected. My in-flight meal was a couscous salad with feta cheese, beef stew with potatoes, green beans and pearl onions, dinner roll with butter, an apricot coconut cookie, a bottle of water, tea, and a diet Coke. I was spent after that, but decided to cramp in another film, so I watched "The Proposal". It was better than I expected. I took a quick nap after the film but was woken up by snack time – minted lamb pie. Our flight was 15 minutes ahead of schedule.

Craig picked me up from the airport and headed to my sisters. Didn't get to sleep much then had to wake up for the wedding (which I'm too tired to post). I also went to Nuit Blanche (again, I'm too lazy to post). Brilliant photos though, maybe I'll blog those two in my photo blog.

Fashion: Hermès pour Liberty

2009-09-12T23:29:00.006+01:00

Clothing: model's own. All accessories: Hermès. Hair & Makeup: model's own.
Stylist: Laura Kay. Photographer: Andrew Meredith. ©2009

Hermès has a temporary pop-up store at Liberty to launch their collaboration – Hermès pour Liberty scarves. There are bunch of in-store events: Scarf Tying workshops, Photo-styling Sessions and Monogramming service. I happened to be at one of the photo-styling session and this is the photo. I was styled and then photographed. The photographer later asked if I was a model. He also commented that I was inspiring to shoot and I take direction well. It has never crossed my mind of being a model but this photograph is magical! My favourite photo ever!

Culture Vulture September

2009-08-19T01:07:00.005+01:00

Last week, I joined as an ICA member. I was far too excited to get my hands on these events in September through advanced sale, and thought it was worth it. Shame that I've only got one ticket to each event, I'd love some company but it's always ending up begging people to go or my friends are too skint.

I've already took advantage of my membership and booked these within the hours, I can't wait for these:

Douglas Coupland on What Words Look Like
Thursday, 3rd September

Douglas Coupland has always been one of my favourite modern writers, not just because he's Canadian. He captures the IT generation quite well, although thought JPod was a bit smug but his characters were always so interesting.

Helvetica
Tuesday, 8th September

I've been waiting to see this documentary for AGES! AGES! A documentary on a typeface! How amazing is that? And best thing was, there was a deal with Douglas Coupland talk, film was discounted! yay!

David Mitchell and Robert Webb on the Death of Television
Friday, 18th September

I love the Peep Show. Thank God for my membership prior tickets, because this show is now sold out! I can't wait for this!

I'm actually quite interested in going to the Joe Sacco talk as well, that's at the end of September. Will decide as the date comes closer.

Film: Coco Avant Chanel *****

2009-08-03T23:56:00.005+01:00

It’s Kirsty’s birthday today. Everyone forgot to make or bring their Spanish themed dish for the lunch party we were hosting for her. I was the only one who brought a dish – Gazpacho (will post recipe tomorrow). So, boss decided we all go out for lunch instead. We went to the local café, which serves both English and Thai food. The owner Richard is English, they make excellent builder breakfast and a good strong cuppa, his wife is Thai, and she makes authentic delicious Thai curries. The lunch was good, but I was quite annoyed that it has totally blown my budget for the week with the present, my hour off for not working and ingredients to make the gazpacho for the entire office.

I had to waste time at Westfield before going to the Barbican screening for “Coco avant Chanel” at 20:45. Bad idea. Sales on and not feeling great = retail therapy. To pay respect to Chanel screening, I dressed up Chanel-esque – I had my hair up, red lipa ¾ sleeve thin black and white striped bodycon dress, a black and gold Chanel like tweed jacket and loads of pearls. As I was walking through the mall, I had one of those Carrie Bradshaw moments where one of the strands of the pearl broke. I froze as I watched the faux pearls scattered to the floor like heavy raindrops. It was a tragically beautiful moment. Not quite sure what to do, I was too embarrassed to get on all fours to collect the pearls, the lady next to me who witnessed it not sure what to do neither. She smiled at me as I said, “so… that’s that.” I managed to savage some of the pearls left on the necklace, good thing that I make jewellery I can get extra to make and re-chain it.

***** France. 105 min. Colour 2008. Directed by Anne Fontaine.

01.03.08.09 @ 8:45 pm The Babican Cinema 1 E13.

I arrived just in time at the Barbican as I was a bit late and had to find where Cinema 1 was, it’s a maze that place. The theatre was pretty full, mostly women of course, the Trojan gays, and a few who got dragged along by their girlfriends. The film was absolutely stunning! I’m not saying it because I love French films and Audrey Tautou. The clothes, ahhh the clothes in the film were just stunning, even the young Gabrielle Chanel’s crochet shoulder cape she wore at the orphanage was carefully designed. And of course, Stephen Jones designed all the hats in the film, including Chanel’s first millinery shop. I loved the story of Gabrielle, especially the tragic love affair between Coco and Arthur "Boy" Capel and how she transformed to Coco Chanel. The ending was a bit rushed I thought, everything was quite slow moving leading up to Capel’s car accident then she suddenly she was rolling out fabrics and next thing you know there were models coming off stairs for a fashion show. I must admit too, the models and their hair and make-up were too modern looking. I thought the film was well captured on how she has developed her own sense of style, how she revolutionise fashion in France and the major inspirations to her signature key looks: the Chanel jacket, the stripes, the signature Peter Pan collar black and white dress and of course, and of course, the LBD – the Little Black Dress.

The film made me wonder on the topic on love and marriage, as it was one of the occurring themes. Coco said, "the best part about love is the making love." She vowed that she would marry no one as her mother married because of love, who also later suicided because her father's infidelity and his abandonment of her and her siblings. In her society, marriage was to gain social status, real love was through love affairs. When a couple is in love, does the label of someone's "girlfriend" or "wife" matters? To me it does. Sure, love affair has the attraction of danger, thrill, lust, the unattainable love, the longing and all the other exciting bits. Marriage to me is sacred (I know, I'm old fashion), it's a life time commitment of love. Of course, one doesn't get married to get divorced but at the same time, one shouldn't married for financial and social status gain. Is marriage just a business contract?

One day I'll sleep

2009-08-03T01:27:00.004+01:00

I've been insomniac for about two weeks now, or if I finally can sleep I get awaken easily then have trouble falling back to sleep again. Last night, I was so tired after leaving Kirsty's birthday drink but as soon I laid in my bed, I was wide awake until 5:40am after watching the last of "How I Met Your Mother" and many episodes of "30 Rock".

I don't feel present for the past few weeks, my head was elsewhere during work (it's been quite boring anyway but good thing work is slowly flowing in), I haven't run for ages, I've even lost interest in my religious Body Blast.

At yoga, I found myself hard to concentrate although the meditations helped me a lot and I felt much cleansed afterwards. I hope the regular yoga teacher comes back soon, she was more intense. I quite enjoyed the London Bridge one, Norman, but his class was a bit more physically demanding and it's a different type of yoga than I'm used to.

I need something inspiring and exciting.

I had a good day today though, made some bacon and eggs for breakfast with toast and my perfect cup of cappuccino made from my favourite Italian Moka Press – complete with foamed hot milk and sprinkling of cocoa and cinnamon. Then I cleaned my room a bit, have to seriously sort out my closet, did about half and gave up. It was surprisingly sunny today, thought it was a waste to spend indoors cleaning – okay, so it was really procrastination – I grabbed my tartan picnic mat and went to the park to finish reading "The Book Thief" by Markus Zusak. I thought it was an appropriate book when I took it along to my trip to Budapest, though the book was set in Germany but it was based on the Second World War and the Holocaust. It was a lovely story, I had to hold back my tears a bit towards the end. I always enjoy reading the last bit of a novel the most, and how you let out a big sigh after finish reading the last sentence of the book. Wonder what I should read next?

It's pretty late now, I should attempt to go to bed. I had some Valarian tea, I feel tired but not sleepy. Tomorrow I shall go to the Barbican and will be watching "Coco Before Chanel", I'm quite excited and been looking forward for this film for a while.

Nite. x

Film: Burma VJ: Reporting from a Closed Country

2009-07-29T22:59:00.007+01:00

****1/2 Norway/Sweden/Denmark/UK. 84 min. Colour 2008. Directed by Anders Østergaard.

01.20.07.07 @ 6:30 pm ICA Cinema 1.

Many of you know that I love documentaries. I appreciate documentary films because it has a message and it is made with love — whether the message is meant to be propaganda or not, many documentaries are made with little or no budget with maximum time and efforts. "Burma VJ: Reporting from a Closed Country" is a documentary based on DVB's (does not stands for David Victoria Beckham here, Democratic Voice of Burma aka Burma VJ) Burma VJ's footage on the monks rebellion in 2007.

The film made me appreciate the life I have here and how important freedom is. Burma has been dictated by a military for more than 40 years. The people have been living in fear since. Foreign news crews were banned, the internet was shut down, and Burma was closed to the outside world. DVB found a way to broadcast and leak news footage to the rest of the world via internet. These VJs risk their lives and the chances of being caught in exchange for the journalistic spirit of reporting the truth to the world.

This documentary had me at the edge of my seat holding back to shout "GO MONKS!" until the monks were beaten and disappeared overnight. Hurting the innocent is one thing but violating a religious figure, the military is going straight to hell. Wait, they don't believe in hell do they? I wonder what happened if the monks only asked for the fuel prices to be dropped rather than involving politically to free Aung San Suu Kyi? Would the military stood its place or rather meet the demands little by little? And I wonder why no other countries are willing to help out? What about the UN? Can't they do something? Basically, the entire country is in hostage, most of the country has banned tourists and foreigners to enter, it's tough for business without foreign trade. The two rebellions (1962 and 2007) at least gave the Burmese a glimpse of hope that it will happen. They'll just have to stick to their guts and have their voices heard. If you wish enough, your dream will come true. One day.

Cooking: Szechuan Spicy Chilli Garlic Poached Pork

2009-07-28T23:53:00.004+01:00

Recently, Candy discovered this amazing authentic Chinese restaurant near Spitalfield Market. It's called "My Old Place" (88 Middlesex Street London E1 7EZ), a sister restaurant of infamous Gourmet San of Bethnal Green Road. One must order a couple skewers of the cumin lamb kebab and a few cumin chicken wings for starters. As for main course, I highly recommend this dished called "水煮肉", I forgot what it was called in English, will re-post when I go there again. This dish is a traditional Szechuan dish, it's usually beef, pork or fish poached by stock, then poured over Chinese miso (spicy bean paste) and veggies, also topped off with fried garlic, chilli and spices.

We've been so addicted to this restaurant, I've re-discovered my love for Chinese food and how much I miss it. It has inspired me to make my own version at home and I would love to share this recipe with you. I've used pork here but you can substitute with beef, fried tofu, firm tofu or boneless firm white fish.

Serves 1

1 Shoulder Pork Chop, slice thinly against the grain
4 Leaves of Chinese Cabbage, slice into 1" pieces
3 tbsp of Spicy/Chilli Bean Paste (available in Chinese supermarkets)
1 Small Red Chilli, sliced (if you like it spicy, leave the seeds in)
1 tsp of Chilli pepper flakes (or dried crushed chilli)
2 Cloves of Garlic, chopped (not minced)
5 Slices of Ginger
1 Spring/Green Onion, sliced thinly
1 Small bowl of stock (I made from chicken stock cube and boiling water)
5 Whole White Peppercorn (or Black)

1. Marinate the pork slices with a dash of dark soy and a sprinkle of sugar.

2. Heat 1 tbsp of Spicy Bean Paste in a medium saucepan over medium heat, cook for a minute until fragrant, add the bowl of stock. Boil it then turn down the heat to a bubbling simmer. Add peppercorn.

3. Cook the Chinese cabbage until soften. On the side, prepare a bowl and fill it with the remaining spicy bean paste. When the cabbage is cooked then fish it out and lay on top of the bean paste in the bowl.

4. Add spring onion or "salad onion" as the Brit calls them here to the stock. Use the stock then to poach the meat until fully cooked. Your stock should be a little thicker now, pour everything into the bowl

5. Heat a couple tbsp of olive oil over medium heat, add sliced ginger, cook for a bit, then add chopped garlic, chilli and the chilli flakes. Don't go too close now it'll burn your eyes! Fry everything until fragrant and garlic looks crisp, not burnt.

6. Pour this spicy mixture with the hot oil over the bowl of poached meat. Mix everything in the bowl before you eat. Served with a big bowl steamed jasmine rice.

Note: If you're a bit of a wimp when it comes to spiciness, then don't use the red chilli at all and cut down on the chilli flakes by 1/2. Of course, different brand of spicy bean paste has different level of heat, so I suggest to taste it to test the heat before you're using it by the spoonfuls.

Theatre: Samuel Beckett's "Not I"

2009-07-07T23:44:00.000+01:00

When: Tuesday, 7 July, 2009 @ 1930
Where: The Purcell Room, South Bank Centre: 2009 London Literature Festival

I love Samuel Beckett. Waiting for Godot was one of the plays I’ve read in high school that I didn’t hate and I still love it to this day. I recently saw the play again at The Theatre Royal Haymarket starred Ian McKellen and Patrick Stewart. Despite it was the most elaborate stage production of Beckett I’ve seen, it was also the best production of this play I’ve seen mainly because of the actors.

Tonight, I attended the evening of Samuel Beckett’s Not I performed by Lisa Dwan as part of the London Literature Festival at Southbank Centre. Full house. It was the most intensive nine minutes and forty-seven seconds of theatrical experience in my life! To make the Purcell Room pitch dark, black curtains was laid throughout the space, and a sole spotlight was on “the mouth” exactly eight feet from the stage. Lisa Dwan began her monologue at the speed of thought.

The play concluded with a Q&A session chaired by Michael Conevey, unfortunately due to illness, Billie Whitelaw couldn’t be present; a taped interview was shown instead. As always, Beckett had extreme specific stage direction and the length of each “.”, “..” and “…”, which was heavily guarded and monitored, by Beckett’s estate. The actresses must have “white voice” meaning — they should not “act”. “The mouth” must not move away from the light, a discipline that can only be achieved by physical restraint. Whitelaw had herself strapped; Dwan had a pair of tights, blindfolded and had her ears blocked. Whitelaw compared performing the piece to "falling backwards into hell"; Dwan says it is like driving the wrong way down a motorway without any brakes. Whitelaw being heavily coached by Beckett himself, has passed on all his and her notes to Dwan — the “Not I” legacy passes on.

Having done a bit of research about this play, I had a slight idea what I was getting into but had no idea I would be blown away by the performance. I’ve tried to read the play; it was impossible how anyone could remember word per word and dots by dots. I appreciate the performance even more after the Q&A session and the length the actresses had to go through for it. It was also an interesting concept of thoughts out-loud. A verbal stream of conscience —scattered yet alert. I’m very intrigued to read and see other Beckett plays now.

Cooking: Life's Little Luxury

2009-06-28T23:37:00.004+01:00

As most of you know, I love food. Nothing is better than a simple yet luxurious brunch on a late Sunday morning. Scrambled eggs with truffles served on buttered toast. Simple, honest yet luxurious. It's definitely life's little luxury.

Truffles I bought from the Central Market in Budapest.

Shave a few pieces of truffle into 2 beaten eggs and a dash of milk and then a dash of cream. This is not the time to be skimp on the cream here, live a little, be Nigella! Season a little here if you wish, or you can do so later. Melt butter in heated pan over medium heat, pour egg mixture into pan, swirl around with spatula. Don't over cook it as the heat in pan and egg will continue cooking when you plate it.

Served over some buttered toast and voilà!

Wait, has anyone seen my Sunday crosswords?

Fashion: Matthew Williamson For H&M

2009-04-28T23:58:00.004+01:00

Having such a bad week, I've completely forgot about the launch of Matthew Williamson for H&M. He's one of my favourite designers and glad to see a British Designer on the international map, I've always love his vibrant prints. I really wanted the cobalt blue suit but I was two days late to the Regent Street flagship store, only to find the trousers and all in enormous size 40. The above 3 outfits are the best ones in my opinion. I wouldn't mind the leather jacket, the silk dress is stunning but at £199, it's too much for H&M (I can buy a real Burberry evening dress for that amount at my Hackney outlet). The peacock dress looks great on screen and in magazine, but it's tricky how the print looks in person, I think this dress will be first to be sold out.

I went to check on the other location today to try my luck if there is the print scarf left. The scarf would actually be my first choice, since I'll be going to a designer sample sale on Thursday, I rather spend my money there. When I arrived the Kensington store, I immediately spotted the Matthew Williamson rack. The £150 sequin dress was there but in a size 42, there was also the silk jumpsuit and the short version of the silk dress and then I spotted my scarf. There was already a lady at the rack just took off the cyan peacock cardigan, I immediately grabbed the scarf. The print is the same as the silk dresses above. It was only £15, 100% pure silk, designer print – a bargain! Score! I love it!

P.S. I've exceeded my 20km goal of Running for April (I ran 21km)! Body Blast tomorrow!

Old Lover, Office & Flatmates Massacre

2009-04-24T22:26:00.003+01:00

It's been a shit week.

It all started in the weekend when I met him for lunch and then it all went downhill from there. I don't know what it was, I didn't have good vibes from him for the past week. I'm hoping it was his work related stress and not because he didn't want to see me. I pushed slightly on the subject on he slots me in again for being his last stop before going home and his "last minuteness" – again, I'm being the "tag on". It's not going to change is it? Seriously, why do I even bother? I'm contemplating on ending the friendship again.

At work, I had to deal with demanding annoying clients (aren't they always the case?), it was too busy, work has called in extra help to ease my work load. I've been so overwhelmed with my own thoughts, I couldn't be creative, I just wanted to do my brain-dead artworking tasks without dealing with other people. On top of all, my colleague decided to listen to HEART FM ALL WEEK!!! I decided to be anti-social and wore my headphones to listen to my normal LBC talk radio. Ugh!

The night of the office massacre climax, Nat broke my port glass. I've only used them once. A pair, now just one left. I've lost it. I admit that I took it out on her a bit, I shouted at her, I completely lost my cool. "It's not my fault." Then who's is it? So it's MY fault that I like buying nice things for my flatmates to break? Money wasn't the issue here, the items were irreplaceable anyway, it's the fact that she's NEVER made any attempt to replace the things she's broke of mine. It's a matter of principle.

I met up with an old lover last night, he was in town on tour. I showed up to the venue unannounced, he was surprised to see me as he didn't know I was still living in London. He's still fat, he aged a bit, still crazy, still my monkey yet still married. We went for dinner at a Vietnamese place in Camden (surprisingly good and decently priced). He thought I looked fit. We reminisced our past meetings and such, he told me he's a lot different now. I questioned if he's more domestic, and if any kids are on the way. He choked. He asked if I have a boyfriend. He couldn't see any reason why I'm still single. Post dinner, he had things to do before the show, so I let him be. The show was great, high energy and the venue was packed, the crowd was rough but they were into it. We made plans to meet up afterwards as he planned to party out but my friend and I couldn't wait around. Waiting around is lame enough, it was a bit cold, I was still feeling shitty and had to work the next day. I was rude and left without saying goodbye.

Had the mistake of coming home instead of going to Oxford to see him again. I was still feeling foul and couldn't be bothered dragging myself all the way up to Oxford to wait around again, so I thought perhaps to treat myself with some retail therapy and a nice dinner – a big fat steak with frîtes and aöli followed by Gü chocolate pod. Yum. I was hoping to be alone, but the other flatmate was home, so I went out for a run instead. As I came back and started to prepare dinner, she confronted me about the other night about the port glass. She addressed that what I said to Nat was inappropriate. I said it wasn't her first time breaking my things and not attempting to replace them. She said it was no one's fault, she just opened the door, and said it could have been her own fault as she pushed the other cups to the side. Fine, it's no one's fault but mine because I bought the glass and no matter how you calculate, I'm still at loss here (Eckhart Tolle wouldn't be pleased – I'm re-reading A New Earth again, I just read the chapter on possession and ego... aghhhhh). She also said that I have no right to make Nat feel uncomfortable in her own home, as if they have the right to break my things and making me uncomfortable in my own home too. She has spoiled my appetite. I stormed up to my room and cried and cried and cried...

I hate living with people, I've never lived with other people before until I've moved to London. I know I'm quite uptight about having things a certain way, I like buying nice things and kitchen gadgets and my absolute hatred of mould. I can't wait to buy my own place, hopefully I can do so by the end of the year.

I'm hungry, I want my steak.

Body Blasting

2009-04-22T00:57:00.005+01:00

Check out my little Nike+ Mini on the right, who would have thought I'll be working out?! Exercise has never existed in my dictionary, but I find myself loving it. I now have Ballet on Mondays, Wednesday is Body Blast and any spare days I can find will be running. Usually try to squeeze both Saturday and Sunday for runs. My goal is to train for a 10K run this year.

Been having trouble with my right knee since the Toronto bicycle accident (then fell on the same knee a few months later), my ballet teacher Kim said "tighten up that knee!" Ouch! I couldn't. Knee brace is my friend.

Loving the Body Blast class at Notting Hill Sweaty Betty, my trainer Shibohan is hilarious and very motivating. "Summer's coming up girls, no more batwings!" Body Blast is a circuit based class designed to combine muscle toning exercises with core conditioning and postural alignment. The class is a combination of challenges designed to strengthen, lengthen and redefine the body. After the first class, my whole body including my buttocks were hurting but you feel really good.

I feel empowered after exercising. I cannot control someone to like me but at least I can be the boss of my own body.

Yo! Remember the 90s Setlist

2008-11-16T02:44:00.008Z

DJ elsielicious rockin' da haus (photo by Nina H)

So I got to spin at the end of Reel Asian International Film Festival afterparty before the start of Yo! Remember the 90s?. It was a bit of a shame with set cut short (thought I had more time), the ones who bailed and the latecomers (per usual), my early set had to waste lot of good tunes to an empty room. Go figure! I did have a few people coming up to me afterwards and asked if i would go on later on again, had to reply "sorry, I don't think so hun..." they told me I was their favourites and gained a few fans. Oh, and I met a cute guy though...

To the people who bailed and the latecomers, this is what you've missed:

Reel Asian Afterparty / Yo! Remember the 90s: DJ elsielicious Setlist
Date: Saturday 15 November 2008
Venue: Augusta House (152 Augusta Ave)
Set Times: 22:00 - 22:40
Costume: Very Low-cut white t-shirt with harem trousers (Hammerpants), patent black heels, Vanilla Ice-esque quiff/hair with teal eyeliner and neon pink lipstick

• Ini Kamoze - Here Comes the Hotstepper
• Technotronic - Pump Up The Jam
• Sub Sub - Ain't No Love (Ain't No Use)
• Deelite - Groove is in the Heart
• Madonna - Vogue
• RuPaul - Supermodel
• Right Said Fred - I'm Too Sexy
• Ace of Base - The Sign
• Whitney Houston - I'm Every Woman
• Marky Mark & The Funky Bunch - Good Vibrations
• New Kids On The Block - Step by Step
• N*SYNC - I Want You Back
• Spice Girls - Wannabe
• Britney Spears - ... Baby One More Time

Tonight really proves to me that I can say "fuck you Toronto".
I really have enough here. Get me outta here!!!!

I saw her...

2008-11-15T02:58:00.001Z

For the first time, I saw her face to face... she is beyond oatmeal, just as ugly as her pictures.

I look damn hott, I won hands down.

Fuck it! His lost.

Everyone's a DJ No. 11: DJ elsielicious' Setlist

2008-11-09T03:25:00.008Z

Thank you everyone who came out tonight, it was great fun, and lots of people double fisted and danced their hearts out (despite my minor threat to those who won't dance). If you missed it, you'll have another chance to catch me DJing next Saturday at "Yo! Remember the 90s?" at Augusta House (152 Augusta - Kensington Market). I'll prolly be doing an early set, so no excuse!!!

Everyone's a DJ No. 11: DJ elsielicious Setlist
Venue: Disgraceland (965 Bloor Street West)
Set times: First call before last call = 1:40 AM - 2:00 AM
Costume: Gold bandeau, with black unitard, catwalkhawk hair

• Friendly Fires - Paris
• The Rapture - House of Jealous Lovers
• Foals - Hummer
• Hot Chip - Ready for the Floor
• Pigbag - Papa's Got a New Pigbag
• Ladyhawke - Paris is Burning
• Toni Basil - Mickey mixed into "That's Not My Name" by The Ting Tings

Thanks for coming out, see you next Saturday!!
xx

Life: Fucking Toronto Streetcar Tracks! Damn you!!!!

2008-10-22T18:12:00.001+01:00

So i've been in Canada for a week now. It went by pretty quick. My flight was a bit of a nightmare, after my long bus ride overnight to Heathrow to find out that my flight was delayed 2 hours. I had an annoying couple sitting beside me, okay, they were actually nice but one of those who really wants a conversation but having no sleep at all the night before, i just wanted to sleep. The husband also had to get up every hour to the loo, once i get into Toronto 2 hours later than expected, i slept the entire day/night. Good thing we've pushed Thanksgiving dinner til the day after.

Our infamous Orphans' Thanksgiving Cycle 6 was pretty good. We made our usual apple/leek stuffing, we had procuitto wrapped caramlised figs for starters, butternut squash soup with coconut and lime, a roasted chestnut wild rice pilaf with promegrante, watercress salad with maple carmalised walnuts, blue cheese and figs. We had a 12 lbs roasted turkey with sage, along with French green beans with caramlised shallots. Of course, last but not least, i made my marriage-proposing infamous apple pie! I try to change it up a bit every year, this year i put a bit of herb de province in it.

The week went by quickly, i pretty much ran out of things to do including my favourite vintage shops (the owners remembered me, and asked why i haven't been to their stores, can still manage to get my usual discount). Also went to book sale at University College, Dance Cave on Friday and got hit on by 12 year olds! Went to visit my old work. Everything is expensive now except for eating out. Did manage to have a list of food stuff checked off my list so far:

• Goldstone - Chinese BBQ - Roasted Duck and Rice
• Sushi on Bloor - Sushi pizza, seaweed salad, crunchy roll, shitake tempura
• Thumbs Up - Korean Pork Bone Soup
• Future's Cafe - Cheesecakes!
• Saving Grace - My favourite brunch place despite we waited 1.5 hours before we got seated, it was worth it.

On Monday, i bought a bike off Craigslist. She is beautiful, hot pink folding shopper/cruiser much like my Bianca in London but bigger. Her tires were a bit flat and the gears need a tune up, she was only $100 CDN. I named her Beyoncè.

The week i first landed the weather was lovely, it was in early 20s, mid 10s. The weekend got a lot colder this week, and blimey, it even snowed today!! This afternoon, I rode about 10 mins my hands were freezing. The wind was so vicious, i might as well cycle backwards. It fell to -2C. Like WTF??

Tonight, as i was going to meet a friend at Horseshoe to see White Lies (they were playing in a tiny tiny venue here for free instead of sold out shows in London), i had a bike accident. My wheel got stuck with the streetcar (cable car) tracks and lost my balance and i wiped out BIG TIME. Good thing there wasn't any traffic at the time. A cyclist couple immediately came to my rescue. I forgot how nice Canadians were! A worker from American Apparel saw what happened and was accommodating enough to let me into the store offered me some water, to use the phone and to keep warm whilst i waited for my friend to pick me up. I'm okay but pretty hurt, scrapped both my knees (one was already injured in the summer from the attack), will be limping for the next couple of days, also i would definitely need to see a dentist ASAP. Wonder if my travel insurance will cover? My right side of the lip is pretty swollen too, totally sexy. People cycle differently here compared to London, i was applying my London cycling knowledge but totally forgot about those damn TTC Streetcar tracks which was the exact fit to my wheel which i was also getting used to my new bike. I guess no ballet tomorrow night.

I hate to be back, it does not feel like home any more.
Miss you all.
x

ps. Pasta Hut is still Pizza Hut here, so far.

Fashion: I'm a winner!

2008-10-06T09:09:00.005+01:00

I never win anything from any random draw competition. But to my surprise on this Monday morning, I won the awesome watch and tee from Vestal, via Stylenoir.co.uk! Retail worth $238USD!

Fairaway Watch
The Fairway, at first glance, appears to be more than just a watch. It's an accessory. As powerful as this image might be, we assure you, it goes with anything and fits anyone. One of our most requested timepieces.

CASE: Stainless Steel/Swarovski Stones
BAND: Steel Expansion/Swarovski Stones
CRYSTAL: Solid Mineral
MOVEMENT: Standard 3 Hands
WATER RESISTANCE: 3ATM
WRIST: Thin

Chelsea T-Shirt
Slim-Fit Scoop-Neck T Screenprinted and Softened by a Discharge Process.

Fashion: London Fashion Weekend

2008-09-27T10:56:00.005+01:00

From the goodie bag & catwalk show:

Black tote bag designed by Tanya Ling
RoC Renewex MicroDermabrasion Expert Kit
ASOS October 2008 Catalogue/Magazine
The Catwalk Guide
ELLE Accessories Supplement
Simple Daily Radiance Cleansing Wipes
Elizaabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream Samples: Skin Protectant, Intensive Moisturising Hand Treatment & Intensive Moisturising Body Treatment
Galaxy Chocolate Bar 150g
Toni&Guy Travel Size Boost-It Mousse
St. Tropez Tanning Sample Set: Body Polisher, Body Moisturiser with L-Tyrosine & Tinted Self-Tanning Lotion
The Little Pink Book 2009 from Handbag.com - Cute diary with fashion, beauty and shopping tips and maps
LavAzza Qualità Oro Vacuum Packed 100% Arabica Coffee Sample 50g
2 Samples of Moxie Slenders Regular Ultra Thin Pads with Wings (Which comes in the cutest packaging ever)

From my newly ELLE subscription:

Benefit Creaseless Cream Shadow/Liner in My Date's My Brother (Pink)
Set of Travel Brushes (Blush, Eye Shadow, Concealer and Eyebrow/Liner brush)
A glass of Moet Champaign

My Purchases:

Black Rinestone Glasses necklace by Anna Lou of London
Green Skinny Belt by McQ

Tonight...

2008-08-06T00:57:00.003+01:00

...was fucking weird. I hate to be in this situation, never again.

This is it.

2008-07-27T11:45:00.001+01:00

Enough.

Life: Pain, pain, and more pain...

2008-06-26T23:58:00.003+01:00

I made it out to the house today, I had to go into work and work was willing to pay for a taxi to and from my house. It was a bit of a stressful day but it was nice to be out.

In advice from my colleague, we put some antiseptic cream and breathable bandage on my wounds. She swears it'll keep all the germs away and pushes all the bad stuff out. It was all fine until I got home, the bigger wound on the right ankle started to really hurt, the pain was so intolerable I couldn't walk but just sat and cried for two hours. I decided to take a peek to the hurting wound to find that it became red and swollen. I quickly tried to look up on the interweb, most of the sites said it might be infected. The cut near my baby toe on the same feet started to feel numb and hurt as well. I was completely freaked out that I might have an infection, so I texted my flatmate if she can accompany me to the GP tomorrow.

I decided to peel all of the bandages off, my right foot feels better, and swollen bits have gone down and it's not as red as before. Still in much pain though, if pain persists tomorrow, I'm definitely going to see the doctor.

Fashion: Gok, show me magic!

2008-06-26T23:37:00.004+01:00

Alexa Chung and Gok Wan in Gok's Fashion Fix on Channel 4

My flatmates reckon I'm a telly junkie, but I swear I don't watch crap TV like soaps and Big Brother! Long awaited "Gok's Fashion Fix" premièred tonight on C4. Two of my favourite TV personalities hosting a brand new fashion show - Gok Wan and the stylish Alexa Chung.

In this series, Gok challenges current high fashion trends with the high-street finds. Pick something high-street and make it look expensive whether you're styling by adding accessories or adding to the piece, it's about personalising to make it unique. There were some good DIY tips and ideas there. The bottomline of his motto is to find your own personal style in which he's in search for the most stylish person in the UK (he hasn't met me yet). Nevertheless, there's the Gok's "Must Haves" of the week and some celebrity guests, because you have to. Meanwhile, Alexa takes the roadtest on the trendiest and highest shoes to the test in an ultimate stiletto race and interviewing Roberto Cavalli in his holiday home.

Love it! Gok it! Love it!

Life: I don't believe in being brave

2008-06-25T18:43:00.000+01:00

Where does one start to cope? I couldn't sleep for days, every time I closed my eyes, I saw those hand covering my face. I feel really alone. My flatmates haven't been home much, and I don't dare to ask people for company. My sister didn't even care. No more follow up email from the one I wanted to hear the most, it's rather heartbreaking.

I'm recovering slowly physically, a bit more mobile without cuts breaking and bleeding has stop. Just a case of ugly oozing of white puss now. Some of the cuts still hurts greatly. I'm such a wimp. Bruises are settling in, lots more pain has emerged mainly from the right side of the body.

I haven't stepped out of the house since Sunday, I made it to the gate to get the mail today but I was hoping my personal alarm has arrived, it hasn't. I still feel violated and bummed out by the assault. How dare they! They don't have any rights to do that, I wish karma will catch up on those little thugs.

Today is my last day to be home, I've been working from home, which is a good thing. It gives me something to focus on. Work is willing to pay for me to go to work tomorrow by taxi. The idea of stepping out of the house is still daunting. I have the mental image of the two thugs looking out for me, "we didn't get that bitch last time, we'll get her this time!" But if I don't work, I don't get paid, even I can't bring myself to step out of the house right now, reality sometimes is a bitch isn't it?

Life: The society we live in

2008-06-23T05:54:00.000+01:00

I was attacked today just outside the courtyard of my flat in broad daylight. 7:30 pm, the sun was shinning and all. For some reason i turned off my ipod crossing the road, and i stuffed it inside my bra. I was wearing a summer dress, didn't have pockets, too lazy to unzip and put it in my bag. But I couldn't hear anyone coming. I'm quite sure i wasn't followed, coz i always turn around and looked. But definitely less guarded since it was broad daylight. Anyway, I was grabbed from behind, the guy covered my mouth and nose, at first i thought it was my friend Jo playing with me, coz we were suppose to meet in the park to hang out. But then i saw the hands were black, i thought oh shit, first thing i thought it would be rape but they started pulling my bag. i wouldn't let go of my bag, they dragged me for a couple feet, i still wouldn't let go of my bag and my shoppings. I couldn't see them, but i knew one was tall from the way he grabbed me, and i only saw him in black tee and jeans, but i knew there was another guy coz they were talking "let go of the bag, bitch". I had my head down trying to have my arms over my face in case they started punching me, i shouted and shouted still holding on to my bags, then a neighbour came out to the balcony and saw, so she started shouted at them, the kids let me go and ran away.

Nothing was stolen, but my poor brand new Liberty patent leather bag was ripped to bits and totally destroyed.

Police and paramedics came, i'm not majorly hurt but quite scratched up and cuts mostly on knees and elbows, lots of bleeding and puss still, a bunch of hair got ripped out, still pretty much in shock. Can't bear the thought of going outside of my house right now, not that i can walk for now... My flatmate talked to the witnessing neighbour, she said it was 2 black guys, prolly in their teens, one short, one tall, can't make out of their faces coz it was too far.

Looking back and what the police said was right, i should have let the bag go, and the fact that i haven't any cash in my purse and nothing expensive other than my camera, phone (phone is cheap these days) and the bag itself. I should considered myself very lucky that they didn't have a knife nor a gun. I'm okay, still shaken up, but too scared to sleep right now. Can't believe i got mugged, it was broad daylight!!!

The Aftermath...

2008-05-30T01:12:00.011+01:00

Oh dear.

Cooking: Roast Turkey

2008-05-27T01:03:00.002+01:00

Weather is crap outside, been laying inside all day catching up with friends from home. Wish I was still away from the city, I crave for a cosy dinner, made a turkey roast with home-grown thyme. I threw in some leeks, cherry tomatoes, onions and seedless grapes into the roast. The first night I'll serve with wild rice and herbs, second night I'll jazz it up with classic roasted garlic mashed potatoes.

Of course, warm custard for dessert.

Life: Internet Detox

2008-05-13T17:25:00.003+01:00

So i've been on hiatus, well as my friend Nick would call it "Internet Detox" -- off all interweb social network -- I quite like it not haven't spending so much time on the internet and have more time enjoying the weather, doing things, seeing things, and going somewhere.

I got sucked back to myspace because i had to log-on to view some photos of me from a profile so I've slight return to myspace but haven't decided if i shall return to Facebook yet. Facebook is too much for me to handle at the moment. One day i shall return...

Despite, I've been much of a recluse, been going to lots of fashion parties and met some amazing people. Much looking forward to Cambridge for the long weekend.

Film: La Vie en Rose

2008-02-17T21:50:00.005Z

****1/2 France / UK / Czech Republic. 141 min. Colour 2007. Directed by Olivier Dahan. Written by Isabelle Sobelman & Olivier Dahan . Cast: Marion Cotillard, Gérard Depardieu, Sylvie Testud & Emmanuelle Seigner.

07.17.02.08 @ 3:35 pm Prince Charles Theatre.

I have always hated to go see films alone but I did it today. I was still in a very good mood, still on the high running into him randomly yesterday. Yes, the grin was still present. This is one film I've been wanting to see but everyone saw it without me. So I thought why not? It wasn't so bad going to see films alone. In fact, I've joined the membership, will be going quite often to see those 2nd run i haven't a chance to see the first run.

The film is about the life of Edith Piaf, whom I love, thought it was a great film. Marion Cotillard was great as young to woman to sickly elderly Edith. The film makes you laugh and makes you cry – especially when it ended with her signature song "Non, je ne regrette rien". What an extraordinary life!

Fashion: I Lust for Thee!

2007-11-21T00:04:00.000Z

Window display in NYC of the 11 piece luggage set used in the film to be auctioned off for charity.

How adorable!!

I just came back from Wimbledon for the screening of the latest Wes Anderson's Film The Darjeeling Limited. I am so in love with the luggages used in the film, which I found out later reading the trailer that, of course, it was designed by Marc Jacobs for Louis Vuitton. The luggages were based on the jungle drawings by Wes Anderson's brother Eric. I love, love, love them!! Cutest thing ever! *sigh* if I can ever get a hold of one...

Incidentally, I adore the film.

Cooking: Roast & Bake Sunday

2007-11-19T04:53:00.000Z

The Pre-Roast.

Smoked Paprika Cinnamon Roasted Chicken with Caramelised Fennel, Roasted Cherry Tomatoes & Red Grapes.

Served with Couscous (I love that word) and Spinach, Rocket Salad.

Sunday is for roast. This is not a traditional "Sunday Roast" but with the chilly weather this weekend, I crave for a warm roasted chicken. Billie Holiday is playing in the background. An hour of warm aroma of fresh herb (from my own garden, of course) and deliciousness infusing the entire kitchen whilst I watch impatiently like a child, peeking every five minutes through the oven door. I calm myself down with a hot cup of chai tea and catch up on my reading. I've added a sprinkle of cinnamon onto the chicken before it goes into the oven at 220ºC for an hour and a quarter, basting every fifteen minutes. Result is the most delicious, moist, succulent tender chicken that falls off the bone. Red grapes, tomatoes, shallots and fennel all have caramelised nicely and flavour have been condensed to an impeccable intensity of sweetness that nature and oven can ever offer.

I then make a simple couscous (I love that word, couscous. Couscous!) with little onion and sultans with a dash of cinnamon over a little hot chicken stock to go along with the dish. Just for health's sake, I throw in a little spinach and rocket salad. Okay, the dressing is store-bought (Brianna's Poppy Seed Dressing), but hey, I'm not full-time Nigella Lawson nor Martha Stewart, at least not yet.

Cardamom Cinnamon Apple Crumble served with Warm Custard.

As for dessert, a classic apple crumble is crying for to finish this Sunday meal. Although, I have forgotten to pick up ground ginger and nutmeg from the store, which I normally would use, I improvise with cardamom and a bit of fresh grated ginger, lots of cinnamon, sugar, and everything nice to marinate the apples. As for the crumble top, it's a mixture consists of crushed ginger snaps, old fashioned boring ole oats, brown sugar and melted butter. Zara offered to make custard to go with the crumble. Delicious. Anyone will definitely beg for more.

Goodbye Misty!

2007-09-20T02:15:00.000+01:00

Misty was stolen from my own garden this morning between 2am-6am (because those were the only hours i were sleeping and didn't hear any noise outside of forementioned time frame). The lock was cut, it was a good kyptonite lock too.

On top of the shitty feeling i've been having, I'm extremely upset (i'm not even going to mention the other stuff). What upset me the most is that I've left Misty in dodgy places overnight, in other rougher parts of Hackney and in the city centre and it was fine, but she was stolen from my own home!!

There were some kids Sunday sitting on the bike and ringing the bell, i was in the kitchen so I gave them a dirty look, they ran away but they were really young though and were just playing football. I suspect is my neighbours, coz they can watch and know what time I'm home and stuff.

Sure, Misty was only £10, plus the tires £30, and lock £40. I've just got used to riding my bike everywhere, it's much faster than taking the bus (plus more environmental friendly and cost effective, transportation is expensive here) but sad news is, I really can't afford to buy another one right now.

I really hope bad karma will happen to the Misty thieves!

*sigh*

Cooking: Lavender and Lamb by Lam

2007-08-18T02:09:00.001+01:00

Lamb with Rosemary, Oregano and Lavender Served with Wild Rice and Mint Yoghurt Sauce.

Even though lavender is popular amongst the French and (few) English baked goods; being a North American, we are mostly exposed to lavender as a fragrance rather than a herb that is used for cooking.

Tonight for dinner, I made pan seared (cast iron, that's the only pan we have in this house) lambchops with a rosemary, oregano and lavender rub (Jamie Oliver style, crushed it all up made a rub), served with wild rice (finally learned how to make rice without a rice cooker! Can't blame me, I'm Chinese!!) and garlic mint yoghurt sauce (garlic, cucumber, mint and lemon zest). It was delicious! I never thought lavender would work but I was inspired by one of the James Martin's recipes I have seen before on his show. It was a lavender and garlic, honey roasted lamb leg. I would definitely like to explore more ways to use with lavender!

Introducing... Misty!

2007-08-13T02:07:00.000+01:00

Hello to all bike enthusiasts!

Please, any tips & pointers for new cyclist are most welcome!!

I've been eyeing on a bike for a bit after heavy persuasion from MattK and my new flatmate, Richie. I wasn't going to get one initially until I've settled but as I was walking home from Brick Lane, it was end of the day as all other stalls were closing up, a guy and a girl was selling this gorgeous burgundy bike for £25 (I walked around eyeing on it for a bit) and as soon as the guy put up a new sign "Please Buy Misty, Any Offers", i couldn't resist. I offered all my change which i only had £10 on me.

I had to ask why she was selling it, in case Misty was a stolen. Turns out Misty's previous owner (actually lived down the street from mine) has gone back to America so her flatmate is selling Misty for her for anything. Looks like the bike was well cared for, it's in working condition other than the flat tires. There were already loads of compliments when I started to wheel down the street, I got stopped a couple of times if I'm selling it (the sign was still attached) and a group of people on the patio was complimenting on it.

I walked Misty until Columbia Road, then I rode on it for a bit, then got off as I was crossing Hackney Road, then biked along Hackney City Farm, onto Broadway Market but got a bit frightened as cars were passing by. London drivers are CRAZY!!! So i walked her until London Fields and rode until Hackney Central. I haven't been on a bike for YEARS!! I was quite rusty at first, once i got a hang of it i was fine but soooo tiring coz i'm not used to the exercise.

When I got home, Richie examined the bike for me, he said that Raleigh was a very good brand for bikes back in the days. Misty seems to be in good conditions, the break works fine, just needs a change of tires. He tried to pump it but it deflated after an hour, so he recommend me for a lock and go to the bike shop and get them changed, shouldn't be too much and since i've only paid a tenner for it. He also found there was an Olympic sticker on it and we laughed about that (i have to go re-check what year it was).

Yay, i'm quite excited!!

Cooking: Lemongrass Chicken

2007-07-09T22:24:00.000+01:00

Lemongrass Chicken
(Serves 1-2)

1-2 lbs	Chicken Pieces (skin on, boneless optional)
2 stalk	Lemongrass (finely chopped and bruised)
2	Green Onion, thinly sliced
1 tsp	Salt
1 clove	Garlic, finely minced
1 pinch	Chili Flakes
1/4 tsp	White Pepper
1 small	Onion, julienned
1/4 cup	Chicken Stock
2 tbsp	Granulated Sugar
2 tbsp	Fish Sauce
	Roasted Chopped Peanuts (Optional)
	Chopped Cilantro (optional)

1. In a ziplock bag, mix lemongrass, green onions and garlic.

2. Marinate chicken pieces with salt and white pepper with a touch of toasted sesame oil

3. Add chicken to ziplock bag, and mix it about and let it marinate overnight or at least for 30 minutes. This is also the time if you want to split the portions and put some into the freezer.

4. Heat wok/pan in med-high heat, add oil. When oil is hot, add chili flakes and let it fry for 30 seconds. Add chicken pieces and brown both sides.

5. Add chicken stock and let it cook for a few minutes until some liquid has been evaporated, stir in onion and cook until chicken is cooked.

6. Sprinkle sugar and fish sauce. Cook for another 30 seconds to a minute. Dish up, garnish with chopped roasted peanuts and cilantro. Serve on a bed of steamed jasmine rice.

Art & Culture: Antony Gormley & Damien Hirst

2007-07-05T23:26:00.001+01:00

(left) Antony Gormley // Blind Light // 17 May - 19 August 2007
05.29.06.07 @ Hayward Gallery (Southbank Centre, Belvedere Rd, London, SE1 8XX)

(right) Damien Hirst // Beyond Belief & For the Love of God // 1 June - 7 July 2007
04.05.07.07 @ White Cube (25-26 Mason's Yard, London SW1Y 6BU)

Antony Gormley // Blind Light
Zoe and I went to see Antony Gormley's exhibition at the Hayward Gallery, Southbank Centre. As we entered into the gallery, we saw this giantic metal sculpture on our left and the infamous Blind Light installation in front of us. We couldn't help it but to experience that first. "Blind Light" is a glass room filled with fog, where the audience will became part of the art itself. We couldn't see anything but mist when we were inside, we stayed close to each other. It was bizarre, you can hear people but you can't see them until they came up real close.

Next we went to see "Allotment" which is a room full of concrete blocks which was meant to look like urban landscape. Each is cut out with a cube you can look through them and walk through the concrete forest. Then we went back to the main area and looked at "Space Station". A breathtaking sculpture of metal cubes combining together to form space. The upstairs gallery features his wired matrices of himself. Loved it!

Canada Day in London
After the exhibition we walked to Trafalgar Square to attend the Canada Day in London celebration. It was lame. None of the food promised was there, there was no poutine, bison burger was £5. So we went to the Maple Leaf instead. Met up with Matt and Audrey, had a pint of Sleemans and poutine, we went back to the Square and met up with Niki and Paul. K'naan was alright and Sam Roberts was boring. Niki insisted to go back to Maple Leaf, I wanted to meet up with Zoe's mates and Jarvis at The Phoenix. I was so bored at the Maple Leaf, and it was a MISSION to get them outta there. The phoenix was fun, I met Greg, infamous Tommy and his girlfriend Laura, and another friend of theirs. A bit of mix bag of a night...

Damien Hirst // Beyond Belief // For the Love of God
The White Cube itself is quite an interesting venue as it is situated in a middle of a square with offices around. We had to queue about half an hour for the viewing of "For the Love of God". Once our group was let through upstairs, it was curated by a security guard with a long list of instructions to put our bags against the wall, and informed us we'll be entering a pitch black room but eyes will get used to it, no touching the glass and so forth. Zoe and I entered the room, everyone's focus was on the infamous diamond skull. It was magnificent! I love how the skull had a missing tooth, it was the imperfection in the perfection. After about 3 mins of viewing, the security thanked us for visiting and our time was up. Zoe and I went back to the front and see the rest of the exhibition. Damien Hirst explores the fundamental themes of human existence -- life, death, love, truth, immortality and art. We first face a series of "Birth Paintings" which was actually paintings of his son's birth, Cyrus, by Caesarean section. The series illustrates the brutality yet tender images of horror and beauty of a childbirth. Downstairs was the series of "Biopsy Paintings" which we found was a bit eerie since it was based on a series of biopsy images of cancer patients with the rich texture of broken glass, choice of redness "blood" and razor blades. We did enjoy walking through the Natural History series, the infamous half shark, half cows, sheep, fish, butterflies. His last piece "Nativity in The Adoration" was the most amazing, it was a knife through a heart with wings, it is where Hirst questions art, science, faith, pain and religion. Amazing!

After the exhibition, we met up with Gavin at Ed's Easy Diner on Great Newport street for some malt shake and Astro Fries. It was amazing! You can read my review here on TrustedPlaces. We were soooo full!! We went to See Woo for a quicky browse and picked up some rice noodles and said our byes. It was a good day.

Damien Hirst // White Cube Hoxton Square: Beyond Belief
On Saturday, 7th July, I went to the last day of the Damien Hirst exhibition at the Hoxton Square location. I am glad I went to this one after I've seen the one at Mason's Yard. The collection is a bit smaller. But this time the "Biopsy Paintings" has deeply affected me more, especially knowing they were biopsy images of dying cancer patients and lumps of hair in the paintings. The Hoxton Square collection continues questioning about faith. The first piece as you walked in was the stunning "Saint Sebastian, Exquisite Pain" which was representation of the Saint's martyrdom -- glass tank with a black calf with arrows through the body. "Nativity of The Adoration" showed a medical scenario with 3 dead sheep in kneeling position to a silver baby skeleton. "God Only Knows" featured another 3 sheep in crucified positions. Upstairs was a small collection of the post-birth painting series of Cyrus and his wife Maia.

After thoughts
Antony Gormley challenges the human body as a habitation and how the body form interacts with space, landscape and environment. Whilst Damien Hirst challenges the deeper meaning of the human form: faith, technology, love, life and death. Most Hirst's installations were cast in glass tanks where Gormley's were free structured. Although interestingly enough, Gormley's "Blind Light" was a basically a large glass tank and filled with fog, where people can see the silhouettes from the outside and became the subject of the art form. Are we the cut up shark and dead sheep in this case? I like both exhibition, but reckon I have more emotional reaction to Hirst's collection, I suppose it was more in your face and it questions the higher meaning of life and death. But both exhibitions were well curated and I highly recommended to anyone to see them both.

Life: Jobbing Frustration

2007-07-05T00:16:00.000+01:00

I feel a bit calmer and decided to put my mind off things and focus on finding work. It was hard to motivate myself and he's right, i need to sort out my life first. Luckily I have a "Power Jobbing" buddy (as we coin the term) to support and motivate each other, and to go over each other's cover letters and such. It's been productive.

I give up on applying through agencies. Last week, I applied for a position immediately upon getting a notify email about the new job posting, 10 seconds after i pressed the send button, I got a rejection email! I was furious. Have they even looked at my CV? Hello???

This week, I have decided to cold call companies to send them my CV. I am going through the 2007 DesignWeek Top 100 Design Firms in the UK, and I am going to send each and every company listed on there my CV. I have send out my CV to the Top 10 Branding/Packaging Agencies, except for Pearlfisher coz i have inside scoop that they've just downsized a bunch of people. I immediately got one rejection by Springetts, they only recruit fresh graduates and to have their career grows in the company. What kind of company is that? That's just taking advantage of cheap labour because they were fresh off school!

On a side of a bit of good news, as I've already mentioned in my previous entry, I had an excellent interview last week with Octagon, I should hear back from them in the next few days should I made the 2nd round of the interview. Fingers crossed. At the meantime, I shall continue cold calling and sending my CV to those 100 agencies. I don't believe I won't get one response from any of them!! Seriously, I don't think my portfolio sucks that bad!?!?!?! ERRRRR!!!!!

ps. Also, i've received my TrustedPlaces card today in the mail. Ahoy for 2 for 1 or 50% off meals!!

Life: All Too Familiar!

2007-07-02T06:13:00.000+01:00

It was difficult time for me to pull myself together two months ago. With encouragement from my friends, I've decided to stay and give London a go. Things were looking positive for a while, made some great new friends, Great Escape experience was excellent, a budding romance but it seems I'm back to square one again. Still struggling to find a job, and the littlest excitement i've had has gone down the drain as well...

I really thought things will finally start to look up again last week. After sending 90 job applications, I finally had an interview last Thursday, not only that, it was also the position I wanted the most. It was with an international PR/Marketing company called Octagon. The interview went pretty well, i was there for almost an hour. The girl at the interview shared the same background as me as she was on Holidaymaker initially from Australia. We had similar design background as well, hopefully she'll emphasised with me. I should hear back from them this week if i made the 2nd cut or not. Fingers crossed.

Been casually seeing someone as well, i was hesitant at first but thought to give it a chance. He's honest (too honest?) and he makes me laugh. I enjoyed spending time with him very much even though we don't see each other too often. I was very excited about it, even though we're nothing serious I've started to grown to know and care for him. Thought things were going well as we had discussed a week before but it took an unexpected turn this weekend. Ironically we went to the same places we've started on our one month. Okay, so it's not a very long time but it is for relationship phobes. I haven't been in any for a very, very, very long time even though i've dated people in between. I was fine with us being casual.. i didn't think we were rushing into anything nor have i forced us to be in a relationship, he just wanted us to be "friends" for now, so i dunno. I just dealt with the ordeal of the whole "just friends" bullshite for the past 2 years with another guy. One minute we're "just friends" the next we're "more than friends" to being "not friends". I'm not a light switch, i can't just flick my feelings back and forth, it's totally mind fucking! I really hate being dick around like that and the other guy was never honest with me. It's these fuckers that made me relationship phobe!

To be honest, i didn't expected to be this upset about it, but if i haven't any feelings for him, i wouldn't be upset right now would i? I'm not sure where we'll go from here... we're both not ready to take the next steps but can we go backwards? he said he doesn't want to add more complication to my life right now, having said that but being this upset doesn't do any good to it neither. I'm not sure what to do really...

Contemplating of going to Tack!Tack!Tack! tonight, a friend isn't feeling well so she backed out... but I'm not sure if i want to be home alone at this point, I'll just be crying my eyes out...

I'm going to be bad, i'm going downstairs and buy some Fanta..

Gianfranco Ferrè (1944-2007)

2007-06-20T14:17:00.000+01:00

Booooo! Another great lost in the world of fashion..

Originally trained as an architect, this Italian designer began his fashion career designing accessories and raincoat. With his architecture background, he treated fashion with the same design principles as he would for a building: structure, form and balance. He was known as "The Architect of Fashion and was also known for being extremely critical of trends and fashion gimmicks. Eventually started his own company. He was also the director of Christian Dior in the late 80s to early 90s before he departed and start creating his own womanswear and menswear collection. He passed away 3 days ago, he was 62.

He will be missed and I'll be wearing my Ferrè glasses to honour him this week.

x

Cultural Weekend: The Social, Mosaïques Launch Party, The Crimea at Primrose Hill

2007-05-13T11:13:00.000+01:00

Friday: The Social

Jarvis invited me to come down to The Social for a drink. It was also his friend's birthday. I got there around 10:50pm, the cozy bar was loaded with people. Jarvis introduced me to his friends, Zoe and Jenny, they're from Swansea, Wales. Jenny is the birthday girl who works at the V&A. Her boyfriend Simon also works there and also there were a few colleagues of hers at the drink. Zoe and I chatted away, we have lots of crafty interests in common. Her boyfriend Gavin is bandmates with Jarvis, Gavin seems cool. They were all very fun and friendly people. We got kicked out of the bar shortly after 1am. It was pouring outside. Jarvis asked if we could meet up for coffee or lunch sometimes. I said yes. He walked me to my bus stop, he texted me an hour later to see if I got home okay which was very sweet of him...

Saturday: Mosaïques Launch Party

Elodie invited me to the Institut Francais for the launch party of Mosaïques 2007. We missed the screening of Transvylvania due to our lazy arses. The Institut Francais is erected in the posh South Kensington. Apparently that's a French area, stores and even corner store sells French imported things. The Institut is quite big and there's a high school attached to it. We were escorted to the VIP upper section of the theatre for the gig: DJ Click featuring Tziganiada. It was interesting, Balkan music with an electro infusion. The dancer was great. Eventually audience broke off their shells and started to stand up and dance, it was great fun. We went back downstairs for our free drinks. I've never heard of such thing as Vodka & Apple Juice, Elodie insisted that it's THE drink in France. It's actually every nice and refreshing. Due to my sucky alcohol tolerance level on empty stomach, i started feeling a cramp as we were on route to Primrose Hill.

The Crimea at Primrose Hill

We got there around Midnight. The park was huge and it was dark. We climbed the never ending hill following the cheers of the crowd. When we got up to the top of the hill, people were shouting "Andy! Andy! Andy!", and there were quite a crowd there. The Crimea kicked off the launch of their free album (which is available to download for free on their website) with a free gig. Great concept. It reminded me the time that Ninja High School launched their 7" at some park at midnight, I missed that gig. Little did we knew, they've already played a whole set prior to our arrival. We only caught the encore in the end as the police started arriving. The best part was when Andy started playing his guitar along to the pre-recorded Ricky Martin's "Livin' La Vida Loca". I met Owen's girlfriend, she was lovely. The view on top of the hill was magnificent, you can see the London Skyline. I was caught in the moment and almost had teary eye because I thought Mike was suppose to take me there 2 weeks ago (but was it turned out he was suppose to bring me to Hampstead Heath, which is less posh). Speaking of, I've decided to give myself a break from him for a bit and focus to find work. I've met a few cute guys this week which I have completely forgot they existed because I was so keen on just the one guy! Anyway, after the band packed up their stuff, we then went to a pub called Quinns along Kentish Town, near Davy's. I didn't stay long coz my stomach was still hurting so I went home.

Not sure what I'm doing today. Suppose to play Kickball today but it's pouring outside.

Fashion: Kate Moss <3 TopShop

2007-05-05T11:42:00.000+01:00

Apparently, hundreds of eager shoppers were queued up outside TopShop trying to be the first to see and buy from the Kate Moss collection on 30th April. The much anticipated collection is very "Kate" ranging from her signature look: skinnies and waistcoats, wife-beaters, hotpants, mini dresses, lace-up sandals, pointy-toes mary janes and sunnies.

Elodie and I met up after work at TopShop on the day of the launch (1st May). We were there about 7:45pm. Surprisingly, there were still TONS of pieces left from the collection. I spoke to one of the staff, they re-stock the collection 6 times a day and there are new stocks coming in everyday. I feel sorry for the "fashionistas" who queued for hours who hopes to make a few pounds off Ebay.

I was much disappointed at the collection, it was mediocre and overly priced. I remembered liking a few pieces from the website, but they didn't look as well made in person. I really wanted a waistcoat but in-person, the colour wasn't right, it was yellow and black pinstripe, it was actually nice tried on but the colour wasn't what I was looking for. The off-white pleated fitted jacket looked really stylish but I wasn't going to pay £70 for it, so was the one strap pleated chiffon dress. Gorgeous! Again it was £120! The only item that I wanted to buy was the bow tie, but you can buy them anywhere really. I've been wanting a pair of black skinnies, the KM ones are £50, frankly, I rather buy Cheap Monday.

This the only celebrity/designer highstreet collection that I didn't buy anything from...

Dining: Boulevard Brasserie

2007-04-29T11:54:00.000+01:00

Elodie was invited to attend her friend's Gabby's boyfriend's birthday dinner at Boulevard Brasserie ( 40 Wellington Street, Covent Garden WC2E 7BD, +44 20 7240 2992 in Covent Garden. It's a cozy 2-floored restaurant with a deli attached. We had the 3-course set dinner for £18.50. Starters ranged from foie gras terrine, grilled goat cheese, baked scallops or fish soup. Main included grilled entrecote (ribs), sea bass, duck confit or risotto. And desserts from Crème Brûlée, to Lemon tart, chocolate mousse or sticky toffee pudding (must be the English thing). This is what I had:

Half a dozen queen scallops, garlic & herb crust
Duck confit served with cassoulet beans and caramelised baby onions
Crème Brûlée

Starter was delicious, scallops were covered with a mixture of bread crumbs, garlic and herbs and butter then baked. The duck confit was done to perfection, the meat was easily off the bones, wasn't a big fan of beans in general but the cassoulet beans was tasteful, and the baby caramelised onion worked perfectly well to add a touch of sweetness. Crème Brûlée was excellent, I love it when they use fresh vanilla pod for it, it was amazing.

The company was very nice, sitting across me was Albert who works in finance. Beside me was a guy named Simon who's an accountant, and likes the Manic Street Preachers. We had a good chat, dinner was nice. It was nice to get out and meet new people.

Discovering London: Borough Market

2007-04-07T10:49:00.001+01:00

Borough Market Entrance (London Bridge Station, Borough High Street, Southwark)

Borough Market
Didn't know what to do with my day, Elodie and Andy have gone to Paris for the long weekend, and Annie of course was working. Matt was having a bike around and everyone was either out of town or busy having family affairs. I need more friends. I really miss the girls. I already went shopping the day before, and didn't want to go far, so I thought to go over to the other side of the Thames.

I've been to Borough Market before when I was in London last year. I remember exactly where it was. It was very busy, probably because everyone had the day off.

Richard Haward Oysters

Richard Haward Oysterman
The Haward family started growing oysters since 1792 just a tad off Essex. Talk about local. I started my Borough Market crawl here. I had an rock oyster and a clam. Never had freshly chucked clam before. It was nice. He also has his own shallot vinegarette to go with it.

Scandelicious
Then I moved onto Scandelicious. Was a little bit disappointed by their selection, thought they would have other grocer goods as well as homemade herrings and gravlax. Anyway, I bought a small tub of pickled herring.

Ceylon1
Ceylon1 is an organic and fairtrade tea company. They have a beautiful Green Tea Earl Grey, I love their branding and packaging. I bought a tea strainer there and I went on to other homemade jam, chutney and marmalade stalls.

Furness Fish & Game
Seems to be the most popular, they had a huge octopus on display. All sorts of mackerels, salmon, tuna, sea bass, smokies. They seem really fresh, was tempted to get some tuna but that also meant i couldn't browse longer and would have go home immediately to fridge it. The only thing I didn't like about this stall is that they had some poor dead rabbits hanging on the wall.. and made me sad to look at it. I have a better pix from last year but I'm too lazy to blog that. You can see it on my London Loves DVD though.

West Country Venison
Around the corner of Furness Fish, this stall has the longest queue for their sausage and sandwiches. A mere £3.50 can get you a delicious sandwich with venison burger or sausage served with a bed of rockets, fried onions and your choice of condiments, I had it with black current chuckney last year. I couldn't be bothered lining up this time coz the line up was insane. (Again, you can see the pix in my London Loves DVD)

Brindisa
Brindisa, the Spanish deli at Borough Market, London, serves up hand sliced Pata Negra Serrano Ham. You can buy the entire leg and leg holder to slice it up at your leisure.

The Wild Mushroom Company
Organic! Organic local home grown. Has all sorts of organic fruits, veggies and mushroom varieties.

Real France
One of my favourite stall, they have fresh Beurre d'Echire and also these Ferme des peupliers "oeufs au lait" like yogurt that comes in little glass jar, they're the cutest thing in the world! It's 4 for £3.50, or you can buy them for 1 quid each. They cost £1.70 each at Selfridges. I bought 3 "créme caramel" flavoured and 1 cappuccino flavoured.

Sillfield Farm
This is where I got a bit excited! Sillfield Farm located in South Cumbria. They have own smoked bacon of all variety. Also have variety selection of sausages and boar. I bought these "rare breed pork" sausages. I txted Annie to see if she's up for having Wild Boar Burgers for dinner, she said she was in. It was delicious. Very different taste, it was almost like a beefy pork. I quite enjoy it.

Utobeer
This stall carries all sorts of beer around the world. I got really excited when i saw the range of Unibroue brewery from Québec. Blanche de Chambly is one of my favourite as it forever reminds me of spending hot summer nights at the Embassy in Toronto. Their pear cider selection wasn't too great. They had that Ikea brand which i wasn't too fond of. So the search for Golden Cap Pear Cider in London continues...

The Ginger Pig
Heard loads about this place, they were recently nominated as semi-finalists for "UKTV Food Local Hero 2006". The flagship store is actually in Marylebone. Wide selection of sausages to pies. They looked really good and the stall was busy. Didn't get anything from there since I've already bought stuff at Sillfield Farm stall.

Neals Yard Dairy
Had the most wonderful cheese sampler today. It was called "Winworth" or something, I can be wrong. I wasn't going to try it because it has the mouldy crust which I hate but it was very very creamy and the mouldy crust wasn't too bad. This of course, is also an award winning dairy shop.

Paul Smith (13 Park Street SE1)

Paul Smith
Located just shyly tucked on the edge of Borough Market, this cute tiny Paul Smith store also carries a small range of novelty gifts and a small collection of the current line. I saw some really nice runners there, but I wasn't allowed to spend.

Have to sit down and have some sugary tea...

It was such a nice day, Borough Market was packed with people. All the neighbouring pubs had people overflowing onto the curb having pints. Keeping my "I don't drink alone" mandate, it had to hold out on my craving for a cold pint of Magners cider. I walked further down Southwark to the Braham Museum of Tea and Coffee instead for an afternoon tea. I had a scone served with cream and jam, and also a proper brewed pot of ceylon tea.

So i bought from the market today:

1 small tub of Pickled Herrings from Scandelicious
100 g Basil Pesto from Borough Olive
1 Oyster & 1 Clam from Richard Hayward (he's also a very nice man)
100 g Fresh French butter, 4 French Oeuf Yogurt in glass jars (3 in Créme Caramel, 1 in cappuccino) from Real France
2 x Wild Boar Burgers from Stillfield Farm
200 g of Rare breed pork sausages from Stillfield Farm
1 tea strainer
Had to most wonderful sampled cheese from Neals Yard Dairy

You can see my complete photos of the day here.

I headed back to Hackney after my afternoon tea. Went to the local Primark and bought the cutest baby yellow summer dress for £8! Then, I went to Tesco and picked up some buns and chips for dinner and I headed back. Tried on the new dress and wanted to take a photo with my Anya Hindmarch bag. As i was playing around with my camera, flipping back and forth from viewing to photo mode. The screen went black!!!! I'm so upset. I bring this camera with me everywhere, everyday! I cannot imagine to live without it. Though my beloved Canon SD10 has been good to me for the past 3 years. It was getting a little wonky at times. I was going to hold out buying a new one, but we'll have to see if this is fixable. After some research on the interweb, it might be a "ccd" sensor malfunction, Canon USA apparently will replace and repair for free (including shipping and handling), alas, I live in the UK. Not sure if they'll repair it here. Will be on a mission later today trying to get it fixed, if not, will have to buy another. *sigh*

Gig 07: The Cooper Temple Clause Panzer Attacked!!

2007-04-07T01:15:00.000+01:00

My TCTC tee and ticket stub

After shopping, I went home to drop off my shopping and to change quickly before I head to Victoria Station to meet Cecile and David. Cecile is a friend of Audrey's. Audrey txted me the day before asking if I was interested to see The Cooper Temple Clause on Thursday. Cecile and David were arriving from Bristol, never met them but we've been txting for the past couple of days.

The Cooper Temple Clause // Kubichek
04.05.04.07 @ Shepherds Bush Empire (Shepherds Bush Green, London W12 8TT)

I was running late meeting Cecile and David at the station. Who knew there were two different entrances. We missed a couple songs in the beginning but we managed to squish our way to the front. It was loud. It was a great show. Cecile and I were singing to the songs and dancing the entire time.

Head
Been Training Dogs
Waiting Game
Damage
Film Maker
AIM
Connect
Once More With Feeling
Music Box
Homo Sapiens
Promises Promises
All I See Is You
Who Needs Enemies
Blind Pilots
---
Written Apology
Let's Kill Music
Panzer Attack

I tried to look for Steve Lloyd to see if he was doing sound for them. There was a bald guy behind the soundboard alright, but if only Steve put on A LOT of weight! I didn't approached him. Cecile wanted to wait for Jon and thank him for guestlisting but we couldn't get anywhere near the stage after the show was over. I bought the last scoop neck t-shirt. We had time to kill before she has to head back to Tottenham Court Rd to meet up with David, so we went for a drink. The pub beside the venue looked closed, so we headed to the Walkabout. We had to leave immediately upon stepping our foot into the door -- gino beats were on full blast! We quickly left the bar and tried to look for another. The pub we thought it was closed was actually open, O'Neills(2 Goldhawk Rd, London, W12 9NT), so we went in for a drink.

As we were heading towards the tube station, Cecile suddenly remembered she has forgotten her camera at the venue. So we went back to the venue and luckily, it was still opened and the security made her signed for it. We caught the last train. I didn't went with her to Tottenham Court Rd, I stayed on until Bethnal Green. I couldn't sleep after I went home, I didn't take valerian root, I was still a little tipsy and thought I would be exhausted from walking and dancing. I reeled in bed for 4 hours. I am starting to think that I seriously have a sleeping problem.

Discovering London: Food Finds & Markets (Clerkenwell)

2007-04-07T00:36:00.000+01:00

Yesterday I had an interview with Channelfly at noon with Kat and Tom. I'll be interning couple days a week to help out with graphics and other random things for The Great Escape Festival.

Golden Fish Bar (102-104 Farringdon Road EC1)

Golden Fish Bar
I've been wanting to try out their fish and chips for ages. Since I was in the area, thought to try it out. This family-run fish n' chips shop has been around for 150 years. I love how their décor was very 70s but yet cozy and quite clean. There is a daily special on the wall which changes as the day goes on.

I had Rock and Chips with a diet coke. The fish was moist, fresh and the batter was very crispy. The fish was better than The Laughing Halibut (38 Strutton Ground, St. James Park SW1P 2HR) and Fryer's Delight (19 Theobald's Road, Hoborn WC1X 8SL). Having said that, the chips were a little disappointing as they were not very crispy. The best chips I've had in London so far was actually at the ICA.

Notice that it wasn't a Diet Coke but it's a Coca-Cola "light". When I flipped to read the label, it's all in German!

Exmouth Market (Farringdon Rd + Roseberry Ave)

Exmouth Market
Post lunch I went for a walk in the area. I dropped by the Exmouth Market. I've been there once before with Nina, Amy and Elodie, when Golden Fish Bar was closed and searched for alternatives. There were food vendors on the street, everyone was on the patio having lunch and a pint. Along the street there are lots of cute little independent shops from unique clothing to handcrafted gifts and organic cafés. It was lovely.

Leather Lane Market (Leather Lane - Wed-Fri, 10:30-14:30)

Leather Lane Market
Continuing my journey to Oxford Street, I walked along Clerkenwell Road on-route to Holborn, I discovered Leather Lane Market. Almost like the Strutton Ground Market, the market is catered to local office workers going to graze during lunch hour, whether they're picking up sandwiches for lunch, or buying quick fruits for home later or looking for cheap clothes, shoes, jewelleries or designer knock-off handbags. Everything is here, prices are quite keen. A few stalls have overstock from TopShop and Miss Selfridges.

The market essentially lead me to Holborn High Street. Then I went to Oxford Circus and bought some cute summer shoes from H&M: red patent peep toes with ankle tie, seersucker sandals. Then I got a call back from Kat, I'll be starting my internship on Tuesday. I'm quite excited though it's too bad that the position is non-paid. At the very least, this internship will keep my mind occupied, people seems kewl working there and I love meeting new people, hopefully I can get a good reference from it, and I can put this as my "UK work experience" on my "CV".

Bought this amazing strapless laced dress at River Island for a bargain of just £10! I was going to check out the new Primark at Oxford Street but since it was opening day, there was an insane queue both ways around the entire block. I couldn't be bothered, there's a Primark 5 minutes away from where I live.

Erhm.. Fungi?

2007-04-02T00:23:00.001+01:00

Mushrooms are growing at the bottom of the palm tree! Elodie then gets rid of them, but in the photo it looks more like she is feeding them to Claire.

Megahangout 2: Blast from the past weekend

2007-04-01T23:19:00.000+01:00

What an emotionally and physically exhausted weekend!

I'm glad I stuck it out and get to see my friends. Had a lovely day at the V&A (one of my favourite museums) with Kate on Friday. We went to see Kylie Exhibition and Surreal Things. The Surreal Things exhibit was better than i expected. Got to see a couple of my favourite paintings from the period. Didn't realised there were more forms of medium expressed through during the movement: ballet, wardrobe, industrial design, advertising, film and even fashion. The exhibition was worth seeing if you haven't already and it was well curated. The evening was tensed, I don't want to get into that... but I did met a cute boy named Jarvis who looked like the young Jamie Oliver who plays in a band called Broken Tapes.

The next day, I had breakfast with Mike at Broadway Market. I love these little markets. That's one thing I will definitely miss if I were to go home. The place he was planning to take me wasn't opened, so we went back to La Vie de Rose (2 Broadway Market E8 - Apparently Little Georgia (87 Goldsmiths Row E8) is better, will have to try that one out), a cute lil' French place he took me to a year ago after an emotionally intense night. It was weird to be in the same place, with the same person, also somewhat feeling the same a year later! I went to visit Kate at Pier's studio in Brick Lane afterwards, it was her last day in London. We had a little chat. Then i hooked up with Elodie and Claire, and spend hours at -- TopShop!! Retail therapy was much needed! Baz txt he was in town, so we met up with him and met his girlfriend, Cath. She is sooo lovely!!!! Haven't seen him for years and how time flies! We went for a pint at Pillars of Hercules on Greek St behind the Astoria, and then Claire's boyfriend, Thomas, joined us and we went to Cripsy Duck on Chinablock for dinner since the Japanese place was packed. We were feeling brave and had deep-fried pork intestines for starters (it's actually one of my favourite dishes). We talked lots about food and Baz' history of his veggie days. All good fun!

Of course, the only night that I finally get 6 hours of sleep, I have to wake up on wrong side of the bed. My right side of my body from neck down to shoulder and upper arm can't move. I think i've sprang my tendon. It was the same pain i had last year before the "acupuncture rape incident" but this time more on my shoulders. I can feel a weird muscle bump on my shoulder actually. It got worse after carrying the heavy bag from Tesco. I spend the rest of my night not moving with a hot water bottle on my shoulder. It still hurts today.

It's been 2 months since I've been here. I'm sorta mad at myself by not having accomplished much but I'm just taking baby steps at a time, by starting to focus on my health first. Need to start eating properly again and hopefully will lead to a better sleep at night. I'm taking this time to work on my portfolio. I'm hoping to have it done ASAP so i can start looking for jobs again.

It looks beautiful outside today, but it's not like I can move. So I'm going stay in and try to get some reading done and work on my portfolio.

Okay, so this is almost like the exact entry from the myspace one but I'm lazy yeah?

Gig 06: Damien Rice - Hammersmith Apollo

2007-03-29T02:04:00.000+01:00

Damien Rice // Fionn Regan
02.27.04.07 @ Hammersmith Apollo (Queen Caroline Street London W1)

Elodie wasn't feeling well, I accompanied her to Hammersmith Apollo (not Palais this time) to see her favourite, Damien Rice. The venue was quite packed as we arrived. It was size a tad smaller than Massey Hall without seats on the Orchestra level. We missed the support act but we made it in time for the headliner. We located ourselves near the front onto one side of the stage. Poor Elodie kept sitting down half the show as she wasn't feeling too well. I've never seen Damien Rice at all, but heard lots of great things about him and now I know why.

The best part was the encore, where he rang too much wine whilst telling the audience the story during "Cheers Darlin'". "The Blower's Daughter" was the song that blew me away and left me almost had tears in my eyes.

The Professor/La fille danse
Elephant
Volcano
Older Chests
Coconut Skins
She Comes Out so slow (on piano) one verse >>> into Rootless Tree
Random Man on the Motorway
Delicate
Me My Yoke and I
Dogs >>> aborted
Baby Sister
Amie >>> spaceship effect >>> Sex Change >>> Eskimo
I Remember

***

Cheers Darlin'
The Blower's Daughter

Cannonball (2nd encore - acoustic)

Gig 05: Idlewild - Hammersmith Palais

2007-03-25T00:05:00.000Z

Idlewild // Now It's Overhead
05.23.04.07 @ Hammersmith Palais (230 Shepherd Bush Road W6 7NL)

It has been a frustrating day dealing with inconsiderate people. Elodie called for a girly pre-drink with Annie at Match Bar Clerkenwell. They agreed that my friends were being insensitive as well but there was a little people can do about it, though Elodie and Annie are on my side and will support me. I needed a drink. One daiquiri after another, we proceeded to Cicada for more drinks.

Elodie and I walked to Holborn and took the tube to Hammersmith. Except, we went to the Apollo not the Palais. When we finally got to the correct venue, Idlewild has been playing for a bit already. We walked in when "Love steals us from loneliness" was playing. They seemed to be covering all specs from new to old favourites. Roddy seemed fine despite the sickness on tour that they had to cancelled 2 shows this tour. It's also the debut of the new bassist, Gareth. It was great to see them again, they were still great as usual! I miss them!

Below was a setlist:

When I argue I see shapes
You held the world in your arms
If it takes you home
Live in a hiding place
No emotion
American English
Roseability
Once in your life
Little discourage
Love steals us from loneliness
A modern way of letting go
Future works
These wooden ideas
El Capitan
Everything (as it moves)
In remote part/Scottish fiction
- - - -
In competition for the worst time
Everyone says you're so fragile
(I am) what I am not

We were later told that this show was one of the last shows at the Hammersmith Apollo as it was to be tear down the following week after. This is the last look inside the venue.

After the show, I went down to the soundboard to look for Richie. It was so nice to see him again. We went to the aftershow area, we sat down and had a drink. We met Madeline's sister and had a long chat. She was a newly wed and quite lovely. Turned out that it was Madeline's birthday at midnight. Richie went backstage to fix us some drinks. Also saw Dom, he didn't remembered my name. But when I told him I was a friend of Kimmy's from Toronto. He remembered that we went for sushi. We didn't talked long as he was always in a hurry, always had things to take care of. I was on route to the bathroom and I saw Allan walking towards me. I didn't thought he would remember me but i said hi anyway, he was like "Wow, i haven't seen you for years" i told him i recently moved to London. He was like "yeah i know. i read it on your myspace" (REALLY?!?) We talked a bit. He said, "it's hard to sum up the past few years innit?" At the end of the night he saw me leaving so he came over and said bye and wish me luck here. And he said "YES, COME TO SCOTLAND AND SEE DESALVO!"

Aww.. Allan. I adore Allan! x

Fashion: I'm Not A Plastic Bag

2007-03-21T05:40:00.001Z

Anya Hindmarch has agreed to design an environmental bag for We Are What We Do. Due to popular demand, the website has stopped taking pre-orders. The snobby fashionista Dover Street Market's waiting list for the bag was also full and has refused to take down any more names. The website announced there is a small limited quantity available in the Anya stores, Harrods and Harvey Nichols on 20 March, 2007.

On the day of, I got to the Notting Hill location half an hour before the store opens. The queue was all the way around the corner already. I was about 75 people in queue. Surprisingly, there were lots of unfashionable looking "men" in the queue. Possibly queuing for e-bay or for their stylish girlfriends/wives. There was a 2 bags per customer policy. The lady in front of me actually had her mum at Harrods lining up for the bag. Good strategy. I was just one horse man since Elodie has to work. I would have bought a couple more if I could. After waiting for an hour and a half, finally got into the store and got the bags!!

The limited quantities have been sold out. There will be more available across nation at Sainsbury's on 25th April, 2007. But Elodie and I can enjoy our bag a month before everyone else!

Check my photoblog here for the photos I took that day.

Food Finds: Paul Boulangerie & Pattiserie

2007-03-18T04:25:00.000Z

Paul Boulangerie & Pattiserie (29/30 Bedford Street, Covent Garden, WC2 - 020 7836 3304)

Window display at Paul's

Delicious and decadent looking cakes and macaroons

Been hearing about Paul Boulangerie & Pattiserie for ages. I finally went to one to search for my favourite croissants in London. I ordered a pain au chocolat. It was slightly disappointing. It was a bit stale and dry, perhaps it was the end of the day. But the display of various flans, cakes, tarts, claufouti and sweets sure look delicious!

Fashion: Giles for Gold

2007-03-14T15:41:00.000Z

Giles Deacon has agreed to design 4 collections for New Look this year. Yesterday launched the first one. I went to the New Look flagship store around shyly after midday, there were still lots of merchandise left (wasn't as crazy as the Stella McCartney and Viktor & Rolf lines for H&M).

Here are some pix of me trying on some of the pieces for this collection.

Due to my jobless status, I'm only allowed to buy one item. I bought the bling-bling skinny jeans.

Cooking: A Very British Dinner

2007-03-13T03:35:00.000Z

I made a very British dinner tonight: Bangers (Pork & Apple) and Garlic Mash with sautéed Savoy Cabbage and Mushroom Onion Gravy.

Sighting: Luna Eclipse

2007-03-04T07:40:00.001Z

Luna Eclipse - Saturday, 3rd March, 2007

Londoners queuing up on The Strand trying to catch a glimpse of the rare Luna Eclipse

Niki and I met up at Harrods, and we walked to V&A hoping to see the newly opened Kylie Exhibition. We got there too late, all the tickets of the day for the exhibition was sold out. We just browsed around the permanent collection until it was time to meet up with her friends at the ICA.

After the museum, we went for tea and a sit down gossip on Knightsbridge. We walked to ICAsince we had time to kill. We had dinner there after we purchase our tickets for "The Bridge". A critically acclaimed documentary about suicides from the Golden Gate Bridge. The documentary left us quite uneasy.

After the film, we decided to go to The Strand for a pint. As we were walking, Niki and I couldn't help noticing the moon looked different tonight. Then we saw people queuing up, so we asked what it was about. Turned out that it was a luna eclipse and everyone is trying to look at it in between the buildings. We joined and looked for a while. Niki's friends said goodbye. I was still quite excited about the eclipse as I've never seen it before. I wanted to share this moment with someone, so I txted Mike. Surprisingly, he replied quickly. He was packing for his conference in Colorado. Niki and I went for a pint at the pub and chatted more afterwards.

A Weekend in Cambridge

2007-02-18T04:12:00.000Z

Pre-dinner photo of Mike and I at his flat

Mike invited me to attend a black tie dinner with the Canadian Ambassador in Cambridge. I've been excited about this for a while, especially looking forward to see him. After meeting up at Cafe Nero on Market Street, and quickly changed at his apt we were off to Trinity College for our sumptuous dinner. We first started our evening in the champaign room. I met the organizer for the event and a famous judge who asked me to held his glass whilst he put on his Canadian pin. We then proceed to a small dining hall for our feast.

This is us at dinner.

Below is the menu:

Starter: Fresh Crab Meat Salad wrapped with Smoked Salmon served with Lambs Lettuce and crushed Black Pepper
Served with Mission Hill Chardonnay
Main: Medallions of Suffolk Venison with Caramelised Apples, Calvados, Berny Potatoes (mashed tatties with pine nuts, rolled into a ball and deep-fried), and selection of Fresh Vegetables (snow peas, baby carrots and beans)
Served with Mission Hill Cabernet Merlot
Dessert: Pecan Pie with Cinnamon Crust served with Chantilly Cream
Port, Coffee & Truffles

During dinner we met our table neighbours, Dave, who is an aero engineer from Calgary, working on combustion issues on Rolls Royce engines. Grace across from us was from Vancouver and currently studying in International studies. James who was from Szecheun, working on his masters in bio studies. Also met some other students there who were on the local hockey team. There were a few awkward moments when a couple of people thought and asked Mike and I were a couple. When I hesitatingly shook my head, they said "Oh.. sorry, I thought... but you both look great together!" Oh, life is an irony!

I was quite drunk already so I wasn't planning on drinking more, though I thought Mike wanted to have a drink with our newly made friends. We decided to go back to his place, chatted a little and we went to bed. I couldn't really sleep that night. Actually, neither of us did...

The next day Mike took me punting. The weather was nice, almost like Spring, pairs of ducks quacking (err, more like mating calls), Cambridge was soooooo beautiful. The scenery was all like a painting, and the architecture was grand, almost made me feel i was wrapped up in history. I almost feel like we should be reciting some poetry. We had a good laugh by making fun of the Chinese tourists. Mike made punting looked so easy, when it was my turn to try, it wasn't so. First off, the pole was twice as tall as me, and it was heavy. I suppose to put the pole perpendicular to the water and then push to make the boat sail forward. I could barely push it! Okay, so i'm a weakling! after slowly get the boat going, i hit the wall and almost hit a pair of ducks. At some point our boat was sailing sideways blocking the entire river!! I suck! hehe So basically he punted the entire hour and i was just on for 5 minutes.

Post punting, he took me to a local restaurant called Tatties, where he had sausages, eggs and beans and i had a bacon, sour cream & cheese tatties. It was huge but tasty. He looked at my pictures from Finland whilst he waited for me to finish eating. After breakfast, we went back to his apt to gather my bags, and we said our quick, sorta awkward, goodbye as he hurried to work. I watched him disappeared into the crowd. He never looked back. I was planning to stay and explore Cambridge a bit, but I had some mixed feelings, I wanted to leave. I then got a text from Elodie saying that she was coming down a cold. So I went through the Market and picked up some veggies and headed back to London to make her some soup.

R.I.P. Malaco!!

2007-01-05T07:19:00.000Z

It's a bad omen. What a bad start for the new year!

I had another bad omen dream before the holidays and it sorta became true.( *sigh* I've given up any hope on that one for now.) Even though 13 is my favourite number and so forth, in a way, I'm superstitious sorta in more of an intuitive way. For instance, if something leaves me a bad feeling in my mouth, it usually will be true and it's not the good truth. Hmm.. I dunno. Damn Chinese superstitions can be creepy though! Many Feng Shui fanatics believe that this is just an old wives tale, but amongst the Chinese, we believe fish brings good luck and represents fertility. So when a fish dies, it represents something bad was supposedly happen to the owner but the fish "absorbs the bad luck" and sacrified itself instead. Not very reassuring for someone who is about to make a huge change in her life eh? Yeah... EEP!

My purple/red betta fish named Malaco (named after the company who makes Swedish gummy fish) of 3 years has been ill, he was given to me from a dear friend, Ryan, couple years ago as my birthday present. Betta fish's lifespan is 2-5 years. Recently, Malaco has been hanging out at the bottom of the bowl and lost appetite for food. I goggled up the interweb that he might be suffering from depression?! Fish does that? That they might starve themselves to death. Also been noticing that his fin has been shrinking as well, might have indicated that he was suffering from an infection...

I was suppose to be seeking potential new parent(s) for him but instead when I got home an hour ago, I found him completely flipped over on his back but didn't float up on top like a dead fish suppose to do. Instead of his normal red/purple colour, his body was pale and turned almost white. When I tapped on the bowl and swirled around it a bit, Malaco had shown no reaction and had no sign of breathing.

When Malaco first got sick, Amy has been consoling me that maybe he knows that his owner is leaving. I dunno. I don't deal well with deaths. I certainly don't want to flush him down the toilet. I might "free" him tomorrow to the pond in the park across from my house tomorrow morning. Returning it back to nature is the best way I can think of doing right now...

*SIGHHH*

Becoming British: Part III

2006-11-30T20:12:00.000Z

THE WAIT IS OVER!!

WOW. That was quick!

The British Embassy in Ottawa sent me an email today informing me that my visa has been approved and will be mailed within 3 business days. Talk about speed. The whole process took less than 3 days!!

Best of all, I made it to the Air Canada seat sale before it ends tonight at midnight!!

Becoming British: Part II

2006-11-30T02:38:00.000Z

For the first time I'm actually impressed with Canada Post. Okay, so i paid $9 for my Xpress Post (that's including a signature $1.50 extra) yesterday, and I've been informed today that my passport/document package has arrived to the British Embassy in Ottawa safely!

I've finally completed the one-two-three steps to apply for my holidaymaker visa. Now I just have to wait 10 business days for the processing. This is what it's going to kill me, it's the wait. It possibly could take longer, as it's closer to the holidays, hopefully not. What if they reject me?? I'm thinking any possible ways they could have reject me, I can't think of much... I'm not sure what the turnover rate is and if they have a limit of how many visas they're entitled to give out each year. They don't recommend to book flight until visa has been issued. ARGH but the Air Canada seat sale ends tomorrow night!!

I should book it anyway, if not i'll just take a vacation in Europe, then come back and start a new life...

Cooking: Quicky Green Curry Dinner

2006-10-25T02:11:00.000+01:00

Green Curry Tofu with Udon & Veggies
(Serves 2-3)

1/2 to 1 tbsp Green Curry Paste
1 can Coconut Milk
3 tbsp Fish Sauce
2 tbsp Sugar
2/3 cup Water
2 packages Udon Noodles
1 package Fried Bean Curd
1-2 cup(s) Master Choice Frozen Oriental Mix Veggies

1. In a medium saucepan with med-high heat, brings coconut milk to boil, add green curry paste, fish sauce, sugar and water. Turn down heat and simmer for 5 mins.

2. Add tofu, cook until tofu is softer, about 15 mins.

3. Add udon, break a part a bit, 2 mins. Add frozen veggies, covered and cooked until heated throughout. 5 mins. Cover and let stand for 2 mins to thicken sauce a bit. Garnish with Thai basil if desired! Voila!

The Bluetones Slight Return?!

2006-08-25T06:29:00.000+01:00

I was reading this week's EYE on my way home just now. I spotted this tiny, tiny ad on the Emerge section. I freaked out, Noooooo it cannot be true!, I thought to myself. I must be reading it wrong.

The Bluetones
October 6 // Lee's Palace // TM RT SS

I had to resist myself from screaming on the bus, I'm soooooooooooo excited about this! Last time I saw them was prolly 10 years ago. I remember I saw them at the Opera House a week after I visited Julian in NJ/NYC and he sent me a The Bluetones stir-stick and napkins from their NYC show. Wow! That show was from the Expecting to Fly album from 1996!! Okay, so I'm really dating myself here but OMG this is soooo exciting!!! I was actually going to go to their show when I was in London for some reason I didn't end up going, I forgot why? Prolly was too heart broken... but anyway, I'm not missing them again!

THE BLUETONES! WOW!!!!
BRING ON THE TEEN YEARS BACK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

EXPECTING TO FLY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I know he lives in Montreal now, I wonder if he'll drive here for the show.. hmmmm... but that will be so weird!

Musical: Bombay Dreams

2006-08-19T06:54:00.001+01:00

Bombay Dreams
8PM 03.16.08.06 @ The Hummingbird Centre (1 Front Street East)

Shakalaka baby, Shakalaka baby, Come and shakalaka with me...
It was openning night for the Bollywood Musical Bombay Dreams. As I arrived to the outside of the venue, it was packed with people and there were street performers, also vendors selling samosas and chai tea. The promotors really created a good buzz. After I found Amy, we checked in and recieved my "media" pass, we headed downstairs for the reception. The reception was very nicely done. Not only it was open bar, it was also fully catered by a local Indian Restaurant. During the intermission reception, they even served traditional Indian desserts completed with chai tea, and more alcohol of course.

Our seats were very decent, it was Row G, slight off-centre to the left facing stage. The musical is a play within a play of a young man's dream of becoming a Bollywood star despite he was from the slumps of Bombay. Everytime Akaash (lead character) has a solo, we would hear this gleeful cheer from behind us, we later found out it was actually Miss India-Canada 2006: Sonia Singh! The show was fabulous, entertaining and full of surprises! Of course, there was also the fabulous choreography and the sparkling costumes! We left the theatre with their catchy single "Shakalaka Baby" stuck in our heads for a few days. No kidding. Go watch the video! Ha! Now it's your turn!

Musical: Monty Python's Spamalot

2006-07-17T01:15:00.001+01:00

Monty Python's Spamalot
2PM 07.15.07.06 @ The Canon Theatre (244 Victoria Street)

Always look on.. the bright side of life...
I scored a pair of free tickets for the touring Broadway musical Monty Python's Spamalot. This was their opening week, and the show will be leaving in September where it'll start in London, England. The show was sharp, witty, funny with cunning lines included pop cultural references and audience interactions. The set was quite amazing, with animated screens at times just like the film. The major things from the film translated well onto the stage, God, Vicious Rabbit, the famous chandelier, Knights Who Say Ni... etc. It wasn't exactly like the film but hey, it's a musical! At the end there was even a karaoke portion of "Always Look on the Bright Side of Life". The cast was charming, the crowd seemed to enjoy it and i highly recommand everyone to go see it before it leaves for London!

Oh, Make Me Over!

2006-05-04T21:43:00.000+01:00

I'm not sure what has overwhelmed me, perhaps it's the sunny weather or the spouting buds in Spring; suddenly, I feel aspired to create (no, I'm not talking about babies! Hmm.. Although...*pause*. Erhm, no). I've been feeling creative for the past two weeks but I'm not sure how I want to capture all my ideas yet. I always have ideas, lots and lots, but most of the time I'm too lazy to develop or to execute them. However, I do keep a book of ideas in hopes that one day will get to them. I don't want to be lazy anymore...

Now that I've cut out from my social life, I should have time, I should have lots of time to achieve these ideas. Ideas are just thoughts in the head, until you jot it down on paper and further develop them, otherwise they're just sitting in the head and doing nothing. Instead of drowning myself with misery and sadness (oh, how they love me!), I should convert these negative energy to occupy myself with projects. Right now, I'm feeling a rush of energy and motivation to carry them out. How? I'm not sure yet.

Part of me thinks that it's my last summer in Canada (hoping, for a while anyway) and I want to make the best from it and I really want to do something. I've never camped so I want to do that. Annie told me that she's flying over here with Audrey for Hillside Festival. So excited! But unfortunately all weekend passes have been sold out. I'd love to camp with the foreigners, maybe I can get one night and day pass and just go for a day or two. I also hope to go to a cottage this year as well. Also, I'll be volunteering at Strong Words Anniversary, NXNE (Boo... Martin's not coming anymore!) and hopefully Olympic Island. I want to play Kickball at least once and I want to get back on ballet and swimming. I'm a poor writer, and I hate writing, therefore I should blog more. I still want to expand StayStylish into a portal with multiple blogs: me, work, travel, and projects. DIY Goddess, here I am!!

I've started to read again, I haven't touched a book since I watched my mother passed away in the hospital. It's been nine months. My reading is slow (as always) but it's called The Facts Behind the Helsinki Roccamatios -- a series of short stories by Yann Martel who wrote the Life of Pi. I have one more story to go...

Becoming British: Part 1
I've decided to apply for my Holidaymaker visa and move to England. Being a British National (Overseas) doesn't give more advantages (not that I am one, I missed the boat for applying) than to apply as a Canadian. As I was doing some research this morning, the UK Visa site made it seemed like they're quite strict on the amount of time that you work, and that they will immediately kick you out of the country once you've reached the time limit. I don't qualify to apply for the "special skills" nor their "skills shortage" (now is the time I regret not getting proper documents/schooling for my Dental Assistant, but Mike is right, that's not me, I belong to the arts world). Apparently they have this thing called "Permit Free Employment" which allows artists to stay & work in the UK (of course can self-support without Public Funds) without work permit BUT the person's work needs to be recognized his/her merits on magazines and exhibitions. ARGHH! I'm not good enough. Going there for a year isn't the problem but to stay more than a year will be tricky. Perhaps I should consult an immigration lawyer? Should I just take baby steps and worry about getting the Holidaymaker first then worry about getting proper papers to stay longer when later when I'm actually there? Okay, this is all very overwhelming and intimidating :E

2006-04-30T20:06:00.000+01:00

I'm sick of crying...

Taxes, Ice Cream and Beauty Gala

2006-04-25T22:02:00.000+01:00

My Financial ~~Advisor~~ Preacher
My sister and I visited our financial advisor last night to file our income tax. We were there from 9pm to 12:45am!!! Of course he lectured us on spending money, saving and stuff, he also tried to convert us into Christians. However, he did gave us lots of advice and insights. After we came home, we sat down and talked for a bit -- our plans for the future. She encourages me too for going to England and try it out. Now I'm 90% set of going, I should start gathering all my paperwork...

Ice Cream = Happy. Free Ice Cream = Happier.
You scream, I scream... I <3 Ice Cream!! Did you know that I have at least 2 different flavours of ice cream in my freezer all year around? Currently I have: Palour's Chocolate, Breyer's French Vanilla, Cherry Chocolate Chunk from President's Choice and Rolo ice-cream.

Today is freezing and marks the annual Free Cone Day at Ben & Jerry's! The line up was all the way back to Amatos when I arrived. Eileen came shortly after, perfect timing. The queue goes quickly. We both wanted the Triple Caramel Chunk but they weren't the stickered item so we couldn't try it. She ended up getting the Phish Food® in a cone and I got my boring old favourite Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough in a cup. She's going to go back and try the Strawberry Cheesecake. Hmmm... Come to think of it, I might go back after work and try the new Bavlaka flavour. Yummmm...

Beauty in Bloom
Couldn't go back for another free ice-cream. Instead, I met up with Janet after work to attend Beauty in Bloom a cosmetic/beauty gala. We first went to the registry and show our ticket, we received a briefcase like gift bag with samples in it also a listing of events and specials deals, and a ballot. We played a few games in the fragrances counters and "won" a few samples. We then visit my sister demonstrating at the Lancôme counter. Then we went over and spend most of our time at the Anna Sui counter. We adore her packaging and we both fell in love with her rose scented lipstick! Unfortunately, the colours were too sheer on me, I ended up buying the Luxury Powder Carry Case and the Ring Rouge in hot pink. Then Phud Thai dinner at Salad King!

Mixed Bags...

2006-04-20T22:12:00.000+01:00

It's been a month since i've been back from England. I know some of you are waiting for me to blog my trip. I don't know how to blog it, first of all, there's the written bit here (I stopped writing in my journal since Cambridge) and the 470 photos on the photoblog, i honestly don't know where to start. I'm still not sure what to make from the trip, part of me sort of regret going. Don't get me wrong, i love the city and i met some great new friends.. I dunno. Also, i think i'll miss it too much to think about it, both, the good and the bad.

I've also reached another crossroad in my life and i don't know which direction i should be heading. I've been having a difficult time adjusting since being back. I want to quit my job everyday but the irony is that two weeks ago i had a confrontation with my boss. He told me that Bryson has left Sears Travel. My boss reckons that it'll be smart for me to start putting my porfolio together since we're not sure if we'll be able to keep the account. Now that the table has turned, to face another possible layoff only that this one i'll get no compansation on nor could claim UI since i'm technically "self-employed" according to the government. I've been meaning to quit for ages. I suppose it's another sign encouraging me further to relocate to England in Autumn.

Even though all the stars and facts are telling me to go to England but I'm still having my doubt: mainly that I'm afraid of not having my sister around, she is my only family left. A guy i really like from there broke my heart (I actually like him more than I expected even though I already knew the outcome), and it'll hurt me a great deal for me to see him getting back together with his ex, or even just to hang out. No dice there. He is one factor i don't want to go anymore. I met a guy recently at a show, his name was Jacques, he was quite flirty and he's from LA. I'm not looking for a fling (though it seems like a good idea) but i realized that my heart is still occupied with him and i'm not ready to move on. Part of me just don't want to give up, especially after all the things i've done, at least i've tried (right?), but it still sucks that my efforts were meaningless. I'm not good enough.

I've been socially awkward, i'm still having problems with some friends. i've also been getting too emotional and personal again so i'm leaving Shittepost.

In fact, I'm shutting down from everything...

Fresh Start for a New Year

2006-02-13T07:16:00.000Z

Wavelength 300: Henri Faberge + The Adorables // Ninja High School // The Secret Handshake // The Phonemes // DJ Davy Love
07.12.02.05 @ Sneaky Dee's: 431 College St2

Pre-show King Crown Nachos + Poutine + Pitcher Beer
It sucked that i had to work today but i rather go into work then have to come in extra early tomorrow since i'll be staying out late with the Wavelength 300 festivities. After work, i went to browse at Chapters for a bit to look for present for Mike and to browse some tour guide books. Met up with Paul at around 8 at the Dees, we ordered King Crown Nachos and a poutine, Sef arrived. We were sooooo full...

Wavelength 300
It was nice to be out and see all the people again. I miss them y'know. I hope there was no hard feelings. The Phonemes was very twee-pop. Their poppier songs are very catchy where the "slower" were a little less-entertaining. The Secret Handshake was not my regular cup of tea, a little on the heavy side, but they were definitely entertaining. Ninja High School of course ended up all going home in a fucking ambulance. During the set, Kalin spotted me in the front of the stage and pulled me up onstage and danced, it was quite the mayhem. In between set, the greatest thing happened. A miracle really. I've had trouble with this very good friend for about 7 months, we stopped speaking to each other. His friendship meant a lot to me, but we were both too stubborn for our own good to let our guards down. His girlfriend approached me and tried to mediate, shortly after he came over, we hugged and we told each other how we missed each other. I truely missed him but i'm very, very happy that we patched things up, it really means a lot to me... only got to stay for 1.5 songs for Henri Faberge, but i had an excellent night... one down, one more to go...

London Calling...

2006-01-28T09:28:00.000Z

I booked my flight today!! I'll be flying to England on Tuesday, 28 February returning on Wednesday 22 March, 2006!! Yay... I'll be seeing lots of my "foreigner" friends, a sketch intinerary so far includes: Machester, Portsmouth, Cambridge, London and maybe Paris.
I'm sooooo excited!!

Things to do before England:
~~Book time off with boss~~
~~Renew Health Card~~
~~Take Passport Photo~~
~~Signed by Dr. Ian Baron~~
~~Book Flight~~
~~Go to Passport Office~~
~~Buy new SD card & battery for camera~~
~~Buy new luggage bag & electricity converter~~
~~Buy guide books~~
~~Plan itinerary!!~~

ps. HAPPY NEW YEAR!! xo

I'm Lost Again, I'm Lost Again..

2005-12-05T04:32:00.000Z

I know I haven't update this for a very long time and a lot of things have happened. There's a Chinese saying "Woman is made of tears", is absolutely right, I don't understand where all that tears are coming from but i can't seem to stop it. There are really no words to describe how I feel or what I'm going through. I feel like I have a permanent black cloud that follows me around, and every time that I have a glimspe of happiness, it will then pisses on me. Everyday passes by and it means nothing to me, but just more and more issue arises which I haven't the patience nor the time to deal with. Grieving has became a daily ritual, first my mum, now my grandmother.. it seems neverending. I felt really bad for missing ei's birthday festivities, but I'm not in a celebrating mood, I just don't want to ruin it for her and everyone. I'm in no shape of seeing anyone right now. Some friends are being insensitive when I needed them the most.. all I wanted it's just a little more attention and a little more hugs.. apparently it is too much to ask for...

NHS + 3AM Swim Thefting + Daiquiris

2005-07-01T19:55:00.000+01:00

Ninja High School // Tradition // The Lava Witch (James Anderson?) // Veru Venuto
04.30.06.05 @ Riot House 285 1/2

We're Going Home in a Fucking Ambulance
It was sooo hott! Amy and I arrived at the Riot House at almost midnight after chilling at her ACed apartment watching Almost Famous all evening. We missed all the bands because we were mostly chilled out on the patio until Ninja High School. This is what i love about NHS.. they're absolutely fun and great to see live, always end up a fun dance party and shout-abouts with topless indie boys! haha! This night was no exception, the living room was PACKED when we got downstairs, everyone was sweating and started to take their shirts off after a few songs. Everyone's sweat was everyone's. it was gross. There was a dance-off and i joined but didn't know who won. Amy quickly parted after the show as we went back up to the roof but i wanted a NHS tee so i went downstairs. Greg Collins asked me if i were going swimming. I said no because i wasn't dressed for it, he said "Who cares, it would be fun!" I told him I'll go but i have to go upstairs to get my bag.. also grabbed along Thomas and Steve to join us for swimming.

Swim Thefting
Greg Collins, Brendan, Amy (Heart On), Trevor, Steve, Thomas, Emily, Micha and Chris, all went to Alexandra Park Pool (Dundas & Bathurst). Ryan also joined us. I sucked. For the love of me, i couldn't climb over the fence, so Micha, Steve and Chris helped carried me over the fence. If we get busted, i'll be the only one who gets arrested since i couldn't climb over the fence! haha! I striped down to my undies and went into the pool. It was so refreshing! I did felt a bit awkward being half-naked in front of these people i didn't really know. haha we dipped around a bit then most of the people were starting to get cold, so we got dressed (thank god for the extra NHS tee i bought) and we all headed to Emily's.

Strawberry Daiquiris
As we were leaving the pool, Amy got a phone call from her roommate who informed her the Christie pool got busted. On route we bumped into Leanda, Chris and Wolfgang, they lot joined us to go to Emily's. I had the chance to finally ask Wolfgang about if he was the Wolfgang at Badly Drawn Boy years ago when he first played Lee's Palace. Oh what a small world! Damon sang the name song to us, we were thinking all these years it couldn't possible to have someone actual real name as Wolfgang! Emily made us stawberry daiquiris and offered us donuts and Pringles. Pix from the nite are here. Steve and i left at 4:45am and i got home at 7am. Ooer!!!

Gig 50: Olympic Island

2005-06-29T02:12:00.000+01:00

Modest Mouse // Broken Social Scene // Metric // Do Make Say Think // The Most Serene Republic // Triumph of Lethargy // Keren Ann
07.26.06.05 @ Olympic Island

10:34am: Eileen and i arrived at the Ferry Docks, and who did we saw? Our Stalkee, Theresa! We took the ferry over and greeted by Amy H., and she pointed to the direction where we were going. We checked in with Leslie but there wasn't much we could do at the moment so we went over to help Theresa at the merch booth.

12:30pm: So much folding! I went back to help out carrying some drinks out to the tent. Then i went back to the merch booth until Leslie called Theresa and to informed us that Amy H was on-site so we need to go back to backstage.

2:30pm: We muck around the back, there wasn't much to do. We introduced ourselves to the catering staff then we had lunch: sausage/burgers, mixed greens with balsamic vinegarette and potato salad. Keren Ann was kinda boring for a mid-afternoon act. Triumph of Lethagy seemed to be openning for all the Modest Mouse dates since April, was the second act of the day. They were alright, bit instrumental, bit of screaming.

3:30pm: We were bored, so we went over to the catering girls and helped them to husk corn during The Most Serene Republic's set. The singer goes "Oh, that was better than sex." All the girls started laughing and made fun out of the whole thing. Then after we finished we went around to the front and checked out to see what their hype was about. They were good, but not sure if they were up to their hype.

5pm: Do Make Say Think was awesome! I've heard lots of good things about them but didn't realized they were that great. They were another experimental, improvising instrumental band from around the Toronto area. I definitely want to see them again!

6pm: Dinner is served! What we have tonight is BBQ Ribs, Jerk Chicken, Rice and Beans, cob of corn, various of summer salads, fruits and cookies for dessert. Enjoy! It was soooo awesome! TAKE THAT VIP AREA! We have better food and it's all FREE! We were all having dinner as Metric came onstage. They were okay, i definitely prefer Dragonette.

Okay, i'm tired of writinig. I'm sure i've left out lots of details and the bit about the cotton angel but please look at the pixblog. Broken Social Scene was great and as many people as usual. Feist did made a special appearance for Almost Crime and a few others. Eileen and i were pretty much done after dinner, so we went to muck around Centreville.. and we met this cute 2-yr old pug named Romeo. We took advantage with our All Access wristband and went to the VIP Area where i bumped into Karen Kim again! We met up with the rest of the gang after BSS, we stayed a few songs for Modest Mouse until they played Float On then we left the island. The rest of the gang were going to Wavelength, i felt so grossed out by the sweat and sunscreen so i went home. I was very disappointed, after spending the entire day in the sun there was no tan!! Luckily no burns neither.

Gig 49: Final Fantasy has a Good Mother

2005-06-28T01:19:00.000+01:00

Final Fantasy with St. Kitt's String Quartet // Torngat
06.25.06.05 @ Music Gallery (197 John St - 416.204.1080)

I can't believe how huge Final Fantasy has became all of a sudden. At the beginning of the year when i saw him at Rancho Relaxo, it was almost empty. But i guess a good secret can't kept for long, i'm glad about his success and he deserves it. We arrived to the venue around 6pm after we got separated from the film earlier. There were a bit of a line up already. Kate showed up not too long after us, so we chatted a bit in line. At about 6:30pm, they started to sell tix at the doors. Zach and his friend Julie, cut in line just in time, as they were the last two people would could get tickets which later on caused a huge fuss on the board. Torngat from Montreal opened. They were an instrumental experimental band, they were good. I quite enjoyed them. I spotted Jeff Harris!!! He actually asked if the seat was taken before the show.. but i managed to snapped a pix of him haha! Owen Pallett dressed in a pink shirt and all white ensemble played a few solos before he brought in the St. Kitt's String Quartet who half were dressed in all white, half all black. He mostly played new songs, only 3 were from the album: The CD Tower Belongs to the Dead, This is The Dream of Win & Regine and Please, Please, Please. Not much quirky chatter between songs perhaps he was nervous about the string quartet or the CBC Live recording. He did a cover of "Good Mother" by Jann Arden. He commented "if i have one of those long jackets, i would be a better singer." So awesome!! After the show, instead of going to Xiu Xiu like everyone else, Nina, Heather, Amy, Eileen, Thomas and I all went to Chinatown for some pho.

Film: Batman Begins

2005-06-28T01:02:00.000+01:00

****1/2 USA. 141 min. Colour 2005. Directed by Christopher Nolan. Written by Bob Kane, David S. Goyer & Christopher Nolan. Cast: Christian Bale, Michael Caine, Liam Neeson, Katie Holmes, Gary Oldman, Tom Wilkinson, Mogan Freeman & Cillian Murphy.

05.25.05.05 @ 3:50 pm Paramount Theatre 9.

I love this film. I know, there are always be cheesy lines for this type of comic made sequelles films. The casting was excellent, just look. I <3 Cillian Murphy!!!!!!!!!! The set was beautifully made, especially the skytrain system. This film explained how everything started and i like it how the film ended with the beginning of the first Batman film with Joker. Christian Bale almost has this uncarny resemblance/mannerism to Tom Cruise which was ironic since Katie Holmes was in the film. Seat edging thrilling, a definite must see!

Miss Popular: Jonny Dovercourt's Housewarming Party + Henri Faberge & The Adorables + Ben & Serge Birthday Party

2005-06-25T18:26:00.000+01:00

7:30pm: OMG it's so hott!! I went to LCBO and picked up some booze after work and arrived at Heather's house by 7:30ish, we hung out, bought fireworks for Ben's pressie and ate dinner from Ali Baba's (2202 Dundas St W - 416.538.7001).

10pm: We were the first ones to arrived at Jonny Dovercourt's Housewarming party. We had a tour of the space, and we made Mojito's. We sat on his deck and hung out until it was time to me to go to Clinton's (693 Bloor St W - 416.535.9541) and take photos of Henri Faberge & The Adorables' set, i have became their official photographer y'see!

Henri Faberge & The Adorables
05.24.06.05 @ Clinton's Tavern (693 Bloor St W - 416.535.9541)

11pm: Oh god i was so late! They were already on their second last song when i arrived. But i did manage to snap a few good photos as you can see them here. Niall was standing in for Brendan, he was recording or something couldn't make it.

11:45pm: I made it back to Jonny's party to pick up Heather. A few more people showed up but we had to leave and head on to the Riot House for Ben & Serge's party.

12:06am: We finally made it to the Riot House. It was very hott pretty much else so i went upstairs to Brie's room (where the fan was) and hide out for the most of the night. I saw my friend Karen again!!! Zach and I went outside as Bush League was playing, it was way loud and we were just so tired out. Ben kept feeding me scotch "Elsie, do it, you have to have it for my birthday!" Bleeeehh birthday boy!!! Oh god, i couldn't even stand straight anymore, i stumpled my way upstairs and sat down on the couch.. til about 3:38am and i went home.

Hearts Don't Think, Heads Don't Love + Quantum Leap Marathon

2005-06-24T07:07:00.000+01:00

Spitfires & Mayflowers // Nick Flanegan // The Decoy Mile // The Barmitzvah Brothers // DJ Jay Ferguson + D. Rex
04.23.06.05 @ Sneaky Dee's (431 College St - 416.603.3090)

6:30pm: Eileen and I went to Lakeview Lunch (1132 Dundas W - 416.535.2828) after work for a malt-shake. Afterwards, we went back to the apartment and had our mini Quantum Leap marathon. Haha the series is so dated now! We watched a few from the Season 2: The Americanization of Machiko a.k.a. Machiko McKenzie, What Price Gloria? and Blind Faith. Whilst we were watching "What Price Gloria?", Gloria cries and commented about being unwanted at the age of 27. Eileen and i looked at each other...

11:20pm: When we arrived to the venue, it was really really packed out. The Barmitzvah Brothers already taken stage. I spotted Zach near the front, so we went to join him. After their set, i went to purchase the new Spitfires & Mayflowers CD - Triumph - it had the most cutest packaging ever of a library book complete with the borrowing card! There was also free cupcakes with the purchase of the CD, so i splitted mine with Eileen. I bumped into my friend Karen Kim from Vancouver!! The show was great, everyone was dancing and we all did the sing-alongs during "Hearts Don't Think, Heads Don't Love". We didn't stay too long, as i were leaving, i saw Heather, Ben, Steve and Thomas across the street. I wished Ben Happy Birthday, they asked me to stay but i was too tired so i went home.

Evil Elmo Again!

2005-06-19T23:42:00.000+01:00

Dragonette // Hunter Valentine
06.18.06.05 @ El Mocambo (464 Spadina Ave - 416.777.1777)

So we're back to the evil El Mocambo again.. God! Just look at the picture above! Seeing all these 20hz posters almost make me want to vomit! But tonight, we're helping out Eileen's co-worker to work cashiers/doors for this gig. Hunter Valentine landed on this week's cover of NOW and with the hype of Dragonette whom to be Duran Duran's openner for the upcoming tour, we were expecting lots of people. Hunter Valentine hit the stage at 10:30pm, it was good from what we've heard, we couldn't see anything from where we were working. Singer, Kiyomi had a strong voice. Dragonette sounded awesome! Think Metric but better, more dancy, more catchy that make you just want to get up and dance! Kiersten, the promoter only broke even for the evening as that night has too many things happening in the city.

Gig 48: Youth Group

2005-06-18T04:34:00.000+01:00

Youth Group
05.17.06.05 @ The Drake Hotel (1150 Queen St W - 416.531.5042)

Hailed from Austrailia, Youth Group has been under the stealth radar for quite some time. Bassist, Patrick Matthews, is also plays in a more popular band -- The Vines. The band's first Canadian debut at the beautiful Underground but it was not packed at all, not only it was an early show (Doors at 5pm) and i guess not too many people had heard of them before. Below was their setlist:

Skeleton Jar
Frank Stone
Someone Else's Dream
Underpass
Lillian Lies
See-Saw
Drowned
Baby Body
Shadowland
Piece of Wood

I enjoyed the set. Eileen said she wanted to punch out the leadsinger. haha! I thought he was alright, though i can see the potential of his voice being annoying, he had that Jesus & Mary Chain kinda look to him. I totally didn't realized it was Patrick from The Vines until someone pointed out to me later. It was funny that Amy and I were wearing the same Fred Perry zip-up (only difference in colour) and we were both carrying a canvas Dean & Deluca bag. After the gig, we all went to Lakeview Lunch (1132 Dundas W - 416.535.2828) for a malt-shake until Ren and Eileen headed off to see Oasis at the Molson Amphitheatre (909 Lakeshore Blvd. W - 416.260.5600).

New Trend: Rock n Roll + Baked Goods

2005-06-17T06:09:00.000+01:00

Henri Faberge + The Adorables // The Ghost is Dancing // The Guest Bedroom
04.16.06.05 @ Sneaky Dee's (431 College St - 416.603.3090)

It was definitely the funnest Henri Faberge + The Adorables show i've been to so far. Their first time playing a completely plugged gig. Don't know if it was because of the sugar from all the delicious baked goods (there was a band Bake-off, pies, strawberry shortcakes, banaoffee, and other cookies and sweets - Henri Faberge & The Adorables won the Bake-off with the Banaoffee), the gig had an energetic vibe, everyone was dancing and clapping it was amazing! The newly BC returned frontman, Henri was dressed in shorts and black socks wearing his BC moustache.. it was funny, during the part where he sat down on the keyboards, he goes "I shouldn't be sitting down wearing shorts" then Maylee shouted "Henri, your balls are showing!" HAHA! of course, not true. Henri got off stage and sang to the crowd, Dancing Pete also started dancing on the dancefloor then fighting with Henri but Henri won the fight, leaving Dancing Pete lying on the floor with exhaustion. (See pixblog)

NXNE Finale: Brunch + I Scream, You Scream + Staff Party + Wedding?

2005-06-14T14:29:00.000+01:00

Aunties and Uncles (74 Lippincott Street - 416.324.1375)

2:45pm: Lazy Afternoon Late Brunch
Eileen and I went to Aunties and Uncles (74 Lippincott Street - 416.324.1375) for brunch. Too bad their famous Belgium Waffles were already sold out. So we splitted a normal egg and bacon breakfast and a cinnamon French Toast with fruit and maple syrup. It was yummy! I'm convinced that Breakfast/Brunch is my most favourite meal of the day!

4:30pm: Kensington Market
After brunch we browsed around Kensington Market, we went to Global Cheese (76 Kensington Ave - 416.593.9251) because i wanted some creamy Havarti since my last purchase of it was eaten by my dogs. As we were about the leave the store, Eileen noticed that St. Andre was on sale! Half price! Normally it's like $12 a pound but it's only like $6. So we each bought some. We passed by Kensington Market Organic Ice Cream (66 Kensington Ave - 416.835.7781) but Eileen forgot her lactac pills. So we're going to detour back to the apartment then come back to the shoppe later on before we head to our NXNE staff party.

Kensington Market Organic Ice Cream (66 Kensington Ave - 416.835.7781)

6pm: We returned to Kensington Market Organic Ice Cream (66 Kensington Ave - 416.835.7781) This tiny shoppe has about a dozen flavours including: La Palette (sorta like a camarmel apple and white chocolate), Rose Vanilla (rose jam & vanilla), Tempo (green tea with white chocolate and raspberry ripples), Emotional Rescue (LOVE THE NAME, LOVE THIS FLAVOUR!!! It's cardamon and vanilla). The owner serves nothing but waffle cones in them or in little Chinese take-out containers. There was also apple-cider slurpee for those who are lactose intolerant. Yummmm!

6:30pm: Eileen and I returned to the evil El Mocambo for our NXNE Staff party. I got a sucky grab bag, so i returned and got a better one, everyone got an Avril Lavinge shirts! HAHA! No Shawn Desmond fridge magnets this year. I also got a NOW frisbee, some CD. Then another management girl came over and wanted to trade bags because she wanted to give me more stuff for my extra work. i insisted that i want to keep this bag, so she gave me a book - Vernon God Little by DBC Pierre, a NOW t-shirt and a few other things. The food was the same from last year's party, catering from Shanghai Cowgirl (538 Queen St W - 416.203.6623): Grilled cheese, wraps, mashed potatoes served in little Chinese take-out cups. It was sooo hott and humid there, we didn't stay that long and we went back to the apartment.

9pm: There were absolutely nothing on the telly. We started to watch Sugar, it was wedding special. So we watched how a wedding cake was made, after that it was Wedding Cake Challenge. Eileen was telling me how she's craving the Dufflet cake that her sister ordered for her wedding. But the cake is $80, only available for special orders. Then we came up with the idea of having a "Singles shower" party so that we can have the cake and celebrate being single. Teehee, really it was just an excuse to have that cake!!

NXNE Day 3: Daytrip Around TO + POP Montreal

2005-06-14T14:25:00.000+01:00

The Adam Brown // The Hot Springs // Malajube // The Hermit // 5th Projekt // Marnie Mains
06.11.06.05 @ Cameron House (408 Queen St W - 416.703.0811)

3:23pm: Duff's Famous Wings
Eileen and I finally arrived Bayview & Eglinton after our 'hood scenic route to Midtown. As we walked south on Bayview, we noticed that Rahier Patisserie was gone! Duff's Famous Wings (1604 Bayview Ave - 416.544.0100) was relatively empty at this hour, we sat ourselves inside with the AC (waay too humid for patios today). Oooo.. They have loganberry juice.. yummm!

5:02pm: Hollywood Gelato We Go!
Personally i prefer Hollywood Gelato (1640 Bayview Ave - 416.544.9829) over La Casa Gelato. I had the Peanut Butter & Chocolate (YES THIS IS MY FAVOURITE OKAY?) and this Caramel one sooo good! As we were heading back downtown we noticed there was this young couple with HEAPS of bread from Rahier Patisserie! Apparently they've moved further down the road. *Phew* Thought it was a goner!

6:30pm: NXNE DAY 3 - NXNE Headquarters
So i'm floating today because Lee's didn't require a cashier. When Kenn said they needed a person at Cameron House (408 Queen St W - 416.703.0811) tonite, i couldn't raise my hand fast enough because i was intended to go to that show anyway for the Pop Montreal Showcase anyway. Once i arrived to the venue i was greeted by the stage manager Kristin and stagehand Nadeen, and both at a separate occassion warned me about the doorgirl, Michelle who was apparently boy-crazy. heh. There are 6 Bands tonite!! WHOAAA!!

8pm: Marnie Mains + 5th Projekt + The Hermit
Don't be fooled by her tattooed Tank-Girl-esque getup, Marnie Mains's music style is more like her West Coast peer, Holly McNarland. Marnie Mains has a strong, crisp vocals and she ended the evening with a song she wrote about being a bartender called Tequilla. 5th Projekt made me feel like i was listening to the soundtrack of a darker version of Lord of the Rings. Toronto based self-claimed "Neo-Classical Romanticism"... bleh.. NEXT!!! Now for something quite the opposite with butterflies, nature and sunshine is The Hermit, another band hailed from the West Coast by electronic explorer Hamish Thomson who plays every instruments on the album with guest female vocalist. They even had video projection in the background, pretty high-tech for the lil ole' Cameron House.

11pm: Malajube + The Hot Springs + The Adam Brown
By 11:30pm, we were at full capacity (not that i'm complaining since i can watch the show). Apparently we had line up to the door! Everyone was here to see the POP Montreal Showcase, first band was Malajube. I love love love love them!! Catchy fast tunes, very dancable, but.. are all these songs in French?!? They didn't play too long it was ironic that they spent more time setting up than playing their actual set because they had another show to play the same night. Post-punk quartet The Hot Springs (see above pic) started the band just for fun, but they put on a very energetic and crazy show. I anticipated for The Adam Brown set the whole night, because my friends are in the band. They took a while to set up, as soon as they were about to go onstage, someone from NXNE came to collect me!! ARGH!! At least i got to talk to them.. booo..

NXNE DAY 2: Emcee Murdah + Bedlam Society Showcase

2005-06-14T14:08:00.000+01:00

i glanced across the room and saw this dude
he's not like any other, he's got no at-ti-tude
he's mister emcee murdah, and he aint no play-a
when he has a microphone he's going to getcha
just give him a beat and his words will flow
this is elsie and emcee chillin at the show

She asked "you gonna rap about livin in da hood?"
I said "i dunno, it all depends on my mood"
I'm a real emcee like no any other
she's karaoke massacre, i'm emcee murdah
we make a good team and in b-ball too
this is emcee and elsie chillin in da hood

10:12am: Emcee Murdah vs. Karaoke Massacre @ Givins + Queen Street West
OH MY GOD!! My second encounter with k-Os, okay, so i didn't go up to him this time and said "I love you, man!" (This is My Truth: he was the first man i said those three words to, haha). He was walking towards my direction (westbound), wore a red t-shirt with a red bandana around his neck (it's rather hott today innit?!) and camouflage shorts (due to overwhelming glee, i forgot to checkout his footwear!). He was eating either a fruit or pastry of kind. We mades eye contact so i smiled at him.. i think he *knew* i knew who he was.. heh heh heh..

The Fullblast // The Junction // City and Colour // Bedouin Soundclash
05.10.06.05 @ Lee's Palace (529 Bloor St W - 416.532.1598)

8:02pm: Greeting the Society
Sooo tired! i got into work relatively early today but was totally busy. I was late meeting at the hotel. After i got dropped off, i went across to the newly opened Chippy's (490 Bloor St W - 416.516.7776) for some chips. Later, I met Trish and Joel (founder) from the Bedlam Society. Bedlam Society is a concept created as a venue for culture that was neglected at one time and to share the love of music. It first started with a website, then venues and CD release parties and concerts within the Niagara, okay, southern Ontario. They talked to me about guestlist and gave me a bunch of stickers and a CD named: Bedlam Society - Mixed Tape Vol. 2 featuring The Junction, City and Colour, The Fever, Trail of Dead, Bedouin Soundclash, Polyphonic Spree... etc.

9pm: Nevermind The Fullblast
It's sooooo busy here! The night has just started! I didn't pay much attention to The Fullblast, a punk band from Oakville that toured with Rise Against and Alexisonfire.. guess you can tell what they sound like... NEXT!

10pm: I <3 The Junction!
Continuing to be busy whilst running out of change, NXNE staff came in at the wrong time (during band changes) and got yelled at by Amy. Oops! This Brampton band had my head turned, too bad i couldn't see much, but i totally loved what i've heard. The Junction also have the cutest merchandise! Their t-shirt has images of ice-cream, sunset and bunnies! I couldn't resist, before the end of the night, i bought the grey sunset shirt and the And With This Comes Tomorrow EP. Can't wait to listen to it!

11pm: What the fuss? It's only Dallas Green!
At the beginning of the night, i was wondering why there were so many emo kids with Alexisonfire shirts. Now i know why, City and Colour is the solo project of Alexisonfire's singer Dallas Green, except there is no shouting and he plays on an acoustic guitar. Sorta like Dennis Lyxzén's solo project Lost Patrol only not as indiepop, was okay, but nothing to die for.

12am: Bedouin Soundclash
At about 11:26pm, Amy gave me the cue for no more cash sales, so i began to count out. We were at full capacity, prolly over. After i packed up, i met Sabrina whom manages the bar. The door person, Shannon, was free to go so i was kinda took over her position. It was soooo packed, I didn't get to see much of this band since i was eager to go. Mary and Greg picked me up at 12:20am, we went over to Clinton's (693 Bloor St W - 416.535.9541) as there was a problem. As we were driving back to the hotel, we were waiting at the light at Bathurst and Dundas, all of a sudden -- ziiipppp the whole intersection turned black including the hospital. Ironically, we were right behind a hydro truck. Thank god i gotta sleep in tomorrow!!

NXNE DAY 1: I Mama Earth + Oops, I Did It Again + Quiet First Nite + Sony PSP

2005-06-13T20:51:00.000+01:00

Stirling // The Mahones // Hugh Cornwell // The Novaks // Brian Bryne
04.09.06.05 @ Lee's Palace (529 Bloor St W - 416.532.1598)

6:52pm: Lee's Palace Back Again
Amanda dropped me off at the venue, i was carrying so much stuff including my overnight luggage, banners, ballot box, SOCAN guides, my purse and cash bag. I informed Josee (stage manager) upon my arrival and met Alanna, Drew & Chris (stagehands) and requested assistant for putting up the banners later on. i set up the ballot area as the Red Bull street team came in, so i tried one for the first time. (Okay, lie. I had one yesterday at the Chart Party with Jagermeister)

8pm: Brian, not David, Bryne
Okay that's who it was! I thought the name sounded familiar and he looked familiar but i couldn't figure out where he was from! So i met him when he was asking me question about guestlisting.. ho ho ho! His set was okay, at least he didn't play any i mama earth songs. However, he did covered a Police song! heh!

10pm: Newfie Rock - The Novaks
Ewan Exall came by and sat down for a chat, it was kinda odd, it made me a bit nervous actually since i was working at cash and he was managing the show. I swear he still doesn't know my name. We talked about shows he was planning to see during the festival, Red Bull, Vancouver and (International) Noise Conspiracy. Lori came by so i introduced her to Ewan, she was there for The Novaks, a straight up rock band from St. John's, Newfoundland. Guess it made a Newfie double-act eh! I didn't pay much attention, but they sounded alright. There seemed to be a number of people there for them..

11pm: Oops, I did it Again! I Pulled Another Andy Rourke - My meeting with Hugh Cornwell
I had the honour to meet Andy Rourke during his tour with Badly Drawn Boy. He told me he liked my Fred Perry zip-up, i told him i liked his too then he introduced himself to me as Andy. I was like "oh, hi.." i haven't any clue until later that he was THE Andy Rourke!! So tonight, I thought Hugh Cornwell sounded familiar and his face looked familiar as well (again!) we even chatted a bit before the show, i had no idea who he was until much later. No wonder he's sooo good! He is the original guitarist, singer and main songwriter for The Stranglers!! But i was strangely surprised, the show didn't sold out. Oops! Now i wish i took back all the stupid things i've said (it's Red Bull! it's the Red Bull!!) or shoulda asked better questions! Hopefully he doesn't remember me! teeheee!

Midnight: Breaking the Curse - The Mahones
Okay, i feel real ignorant for not knowing all these bands showcasing at my venue. Apparently The Mahones are quite popular Celtic Punk band from Kingston, Ontario. They've trailled bad luck since May 1999 when bassist passed away of food allergy then a month later, another former member died from a camping accident. They were alright, lots of people seemed to enjoy their set.

1AM: Stirling - Toronto's "Britpop" Darling
It was more quiet than my other times working at Lee's Palace during the festival. I don't think this band live up to their hype, Eileen and I saw them couple months ago, they were good but just not "wow". I didn't get to see much of this set then Mary & Greg came pick me up.

1:40AM: Cashing Out
It seemed straight forward but i wasn't sure what i was doing, forgive me, it was my first time doing the "Cash-Out"... Why doesn't any of these sheets balanced?!??! HELP??

2:25AM: PSP Time!
After Eileen and I cabbed back to the apartment, we played Sony PSP for a while and we watched part of Spiderman II on the PSP, it's amazing how great the quality of that little screen is, it makes our telly looks like crap! Not only it can play games, it can also plays movies, mp3s, store games and photos! I want one of these!!

NXNE Kickoff + Chart Schmuck Party

2005-06-09T04:46:00.000+01:00

Was another busy day at work today, my client Eric still drove me up the wall! ARGH! It's that time of the year again, it was NXNE's final cashier meeting today at 6pm, it's the same thing again, yadda yadda.. but this year i got to use the Ticketmonster beeper! wheee! I'm working at Lee's Palace again this year. I don't think i'll work the Saturday show, so hopefully i can go bar hopping, i really want to go to Xpace and see ddmmyyyy These are the bands:

04.09.06.05 - Chart Magazine Presents
Stirling 1 AM
The Mahones 12 AM
Hugh Cornwell 11 PM
The Novaks 10 PM
Brian Byrne 9 PM

05.10.06.05 - Bedlam Society Presents
Bedouin Soundclash 12 AM
City And Colour 11 PM
The Junction 10 PM
The Fullblast 9 PM

8:20PM: Chart Schmucks-Ahoy Party at Berkeley Church
After the meeting Eileen and i killed sometime before we headed to Berkeley Church (315 Queen St E - 416.361.9666). We checked in with guestlist and drink tickets and we went into the venue. It's the cutest little place, well it is a church, much look like Palais Royale (1601 Lake Shore Blvd W - 416.533.3553) only with a balcony and an alter. It has the cutest bathroom, French sage green with Victorian mirrors. It was pretty packed and there were lots of "industry" people. When we first enter, we spotted Jesse from Death From Above taking photos at the Chart booth. They were giving out samples of Jagermeister shots with Red Bull, the most disgusting combination ever -- cough syrup! The food was not bad: somosas, pitas, wraps, mini shrimp dumplings, pot-stickers, steamed buns, pineapple, watermelon, puff-pastry mini things, phyllo triangles with cheese and spinach (ours were MUCH BETTER). The so-called "cool" and "fashionable" chicks are the big joke of the night, first off, they're not very young, second, they're still going for that 80s Electrotrash look, c'mon, soooo last year! Even if the outfit was "decent" they ruined it by wearing ugly uncomfortable platform shoes (so 90s!) and what's up with all these girls with grossly long painted toenails?! That's the most disgusting thing EVER! Bahhh.. we spoke to a few people, had a beer, took the swag bags (it's not even that great this year, 3 old issues of Chart (not even the new one, you have to grab that from their booth), a full size of STIFF hair puddy (not bad), Charles Worthington Shine Spray (that i like), Gillette razor, Caesar sticker and BenQ flashlight.. bahh!) and we quietly left the party. Schmuck smoozing is not for us!

Gig 45: There's a Coral on the Lakeshore + BBQ + Hott in Herre

2005-06-08T06:50:00.000+01:00

6:50PM: Hott in Herre!!!!
What a busy day at work! Eric was driving me absolutely nuts about the national advert this week! I wanted to kill him! During break I went to vent off and so I went over to Black Market (319 Queen St W - 416.591.7945) and bought some stuff. It has been soo hott in Toronto! Silly me had the idea of walking to A&E after work, it wasn't by all means far but man.. SOO HOTT!! On route, i bumped into Jay who were on his way home from Rotate, i passed by the busy Bellwoods Park and took the above picture, then i saw Kate and Tyler on the patio at Fresh, i said hi quickly and head to A&E...

7:23PM: A&E BBQ
Finally arrived! Romi and Deddy were already there, we chatted a bit and picture above is what we've had. it was yummy!! Romi and Deddy are leaving for Isreal on Thursday but they might stay since Deddy was offered a job at Interscope but it's not confirmed. I hope they'll stay. Toronto is lovely to be living in (though i am tired of it at the moment, but it'll always be my home!)

9:23PM: We better go! Romi actually left her window open and her keys inside the unlocked car! We drove to the venue and she has the sudden craving for ice cream, we didn't like the first place we stopped at, we decided to hop over to The Big Chill (367 Manning Ave + College - 416.540.9040) but the line up was massive so we went back to the venue.. On the way, we bumped into Nick and his British "mates".. one of them said to Nick "Do you know these birds?" ... Death stare, hello? Would he talk to us if he doesn't know us or vice versa? "No, we just flew from the sky!" I answered... DUH!

The Coral // The Meligrove Band
02.07.06.05 @ The Mod Club (722 College St - 416.588.4663)
Eileen + Elsie + Deddy + Romi

9:54PM: There's a Coral on the Lakeshore
The last time I saw The Coral was in March 2003 with Supergrass at The Koolhaus, so it's been a while. I was surprised to see the crowd turned out, more people than i expected. I spotted MasiaOne was working at merchandise, so i went over and chatted with her, caught up on things and told her i bumped into Karen in Vancouver. The band was great, though they didn't look as "ned" this time around though the singer James and drummer were both wearing Adidas trackpants! haha! James' singer was incredible, although he has slight problem with the feedback. The band played a 65 minutes of old and new mix, many of the olds in fact. The percussion was amazing: bongo & drums! What a great show!

11:40PM: Romi and Deddy gave me a lift to the subway station, we detoured to The Big Chill to get a couple scoops! Yay! Romi's mission finally accomplished! I got a scoop of Dulce de Leche, she got a double scoop of espresso and funky chunky chocolate! Yummmm.. Gah it's 2am i gotta sleep, tomorrow NXNE meeting then Chat Magazine party!

This Week 30 May - 05 June: Birthdays + Dinners + Eating Greens + Being Bad

2005-06-06T01:52:00.000+01:00

01.30.05.05: Amy's Birthday
11:50pm: After Kaiser Cheifs, I had this cunning idea of going to Dominion and get mini vanilla cupcakes to surprise Amy for her birthday. She was glad and wished for something silly. hehe The mini cupcakes were very cute!

6:57pm: I *finally* made it to EAST (240 Queen St W - 416.351.EAST) to meet up with the girls for Amy's birthday dinner. It was basically same as the other Spring Rolls, only EAST has a bit more dim-sum like items. I had tofu green curry with rice, Eileen ordered a sea bass dish, Amy had mango chicken with rice and Nina ordered the General Tao chicken with rice. We all shared the mango creme brulee, Amy was surprised again to see our waitress presented the dessert with a lite candle. She got a second wish, hope she wisely wish for something else this time.. hehehe.

10pm: We went to Communist's Daughter (1149 Dundas St W - 647.435.0103) for a drink after dinner. The cozy little bar was located around the corner of where Amy and Eileen live now. It has an excellent jukebox! We spinned like 20 songs on the jukebox, i played some Rolling Stones, Gary Numan, Neutral Milk Hotel, Feist and TV on the Radio. The bartender, Michael, was very friendly.. There was a Run Chico Run sticker on the wall behind our table, i freaked. We played Hott Dice and i rolled 1-2-3-4-5! We left shortly after midnight.

02.31.05.05: Another Sushi Adventure with Mike
7pm: I've been looking forward to this! I haven't been to Sushi on Bloor (515 Bloor St W - 416.516.3456) for a while, so i'm very excited about this! And it didn't rain tonight.. hehe. We shared a spicy sushi pizza, a tempura appetizer, dynamic roll and crunchy roll. They looked so little but there was so much food! We had a good chat as usual, it was almost surreal that we were in Vancouver last week and there we are in Toronto. I kinda felt bad because there were heaps of people waiting outside and we were there for 2 hours. Even it was for a short time, it was great seeing him again.

Henri Faberge + The Adorables @ The Embassy

03.01.06.05: Niall's Fucking Birthdaaaay + Henri Faberge & The Adorables @ The Embassy
8pm - Pre-drinks & Dinner at A&E: Somehow i still haven't grasped the concept of havinig "Pre-Drinks" at A&E because Amy doesn't even drink and all of a sudden they have an entire bar of alcohol selection! haha! I arrived at A&E, Amy was making us some brown rice bowl with raw veggies on top and some vegan tahini dressing. Eileen was like "screw this, i'm having ramen!" hehe I thought it was tasty!

10 something pm: We arrived at The Embassy (223 Augusta Ave - 416.591.1132) at around 10-10:30pm, Bredan was by the door so I stopped and said hello, most of the seats were filled already. Ben, Emily and Renata were at the back, so we cut through whilst Thick Hawk was still playing and sat by the bar. The "stage" area was decorated with streamers and yellow balloons it was cute. The Township Expansion sounded much better this time, even though i'm sure Niall was very drunk, he kept saying "It's my fucking birthdaaaayyyy!!!" or changed part of the lyrics to that. haha so funny. Then Henri presented him a chocolate cake, we all sang "Happy Birthday", then they got into a cake fight! Henri Faberge + The Adorables were awesome as usual! Pete was dancing all night (and doing jumping jacks), with 2 additional waredrobe changes! They covered Donovan's Happy Together and Yeah Yeah Yeahs' Map. Oh the fun times!!! The fun times repeat next month..

04.02.06.05: Oh Janet!
I bumped into Janet a few days ago on the bus, it was odd, i was napping and someone tabbed on my shoulder hahaha I haven't seen her for a long time, since she was busy with getting into school and I was on all these mini roadtrips. We made plans to have dinner tonight. We met at Yonge & Eglington, our only time hanging out in that area. We went and checked out Accessorize (2614 Yonge St - 416.483.4992) which apparently was an UK chainstore, i was just at one of their Vancouver location on Robson last week! We went to dinner at Pickle Barrel, since i've missed her birthday celebration, i treated her for dinner. Then we wandered to the 24hr Shoppers Drug Mart for some old time makeup/product talk fun.. hehe aww i miss hanging out with Janet!

06.04.06.03: NXNE + Wedding Dress Hunt + Ate My Greens
2:30PM: Blah Blah Blah.. It's that time of the year again,
NXNE is next week! It was kinda awkward stepping into El Mocombo post-20hz.ca incident. There were 20hz.ca posters plastered all over, when i was on route getting there, i was thinking that maybe i should get one of those Dylan headbands that says "stillepost.ca".. haha! It's the same every year at these volunteer meetings, i know it all too well, this will be my third year as cashier for the festival. But this year i've been nominated by "upper level" to do the "Count-Out" at the end of the night. I was kinda furious at first since i didn't want to stay behind and deal with all these money counting business.. but i guess it's an honoured to be nominated as well. we'll seee...

4PM: Eileen and I met up with Nina and Amy after our meeting at Pho Hung (St Andrews + Spadina), we had some Pho and spring rolls, as the other girls went to grocery shopping in Kensington Market. We met up with them after. I went to Courage My Love (14 Kensington Ave - 416.979.1992), one of my favourite store, and i unintentially found this very cute mint-sage vintage dress for $14, it would be PERFECT to wear for my cousin's summer wedding! (HAHA fooled ya! I guess the heading was misleading, Dress for a Wedding not Wedding Dress, certainly not MY wedding! My cousin Bonnie went to Xinjiang, China to teach English and met a guy from England a year ago, now they're getting married!! She's only 24!). Ironically, Amy was looking for a dress for her cousin's wedding as well, she intended to spend $20 but ended up spending $120 on it.. haha! We shopped around for a bit, we went for a sundae, then we went to Sunshine Deli (895 Dundas St W - 416.364.8832), where i bought a cute red vintage skirt with multi coloured butterflies for $22. Then we went to Clandestino (249 Crawford St - 647.436.4761) to check out some shoes.

8PM & 12:20AM: We dropped off our shopping, Amy made us this pesto pasta with shrimp.. then we headed off to Neutral (349 A College at Augusta in Kensington)for Eat Your Greens (Trevor and Duncan's new night after their years at Blow Up). The space was in a basement, but it's a cute space, it's nice. But it got really hott in there, so we spend most of our night outside by the steps. It was good music though, we danced and danced and danced the night away..

07.05.06.05: The Good Daughter but Feeling Bad
Finally i get to spend the day with my mother. I haven't been home for the past 3 weekends.. My sister is also back for now from Montreal. We chatted a bit this morning, she told me some stuff about Paris and how she might be moving to England next year. *Sigh* Mom and I went to Town Centre (our ritual every Sunday minus the DimSum this week). I felt kinda bleh today and i felt like being bad and spending... I bought couple tank tops and a pleasant skirt. I was going to buy more lingerie, but i've already spend $60 on lingerie on Friday.. which is kinda ridiculous really because i'm the one who sees myself in them! HA! I made veggie rice roll tonite.. it was yummy!!

Gig 44: I Predict a Riot, I Predict a Riot!!

2005-06-02T07:14:00.000+01:00

Kaiser Chiefs // OK GO!
07.29.05.05 @ The Mod Club (722 College St - 416.588.4663)
Eileen + Elsie

A bigger venue this time, couple months ago Eileen and I saw them at El Mocombo with The Golden Dogs, Uncut and The High Dials. OKGO! was alright as usual we've seen that a few times before. The highlight of the night was when after their show they came back out and did a choreographed dance!! Brilliant! Kaiser Chiefs hailed the stage at around 11pm. They put on a high energetic show apparently it was also recorded by CBC Radio 3. Apparently our crowd was better than previous night (they played a free show the night before as Edge's Next Big Thing at same venue) and Montreal's. They were good, but being the indie snobs like we are, they're on their way out on our list.. too bad!

1/2 to 1 tbsp	Green Curry Paste
1 can	Coconut Milk
3 tbsp	Fish Sauce
2 tbsp	Sugar
2/3 cup	Water
2 packages	Udon Noodles
1 package	Fried Bean Curd
1-2 cup(s)	Master Choice Frozen Oriental Mix Veggies

Stirling	1 AM
The Mahones	12 AM
Hugh Cornwell	11 PM
The Novaks	10 PM
Brian Byrne	9 PM

Bedouin Soundclash	12 AM
City And Colour	11 PM
The Junction	10 PM
The Fullblast	9 PM