Forever Princess :: Rachel Tan ::

2009-06-20T06:42:00.000-07:00

Photo credit: http://www.tianya.cn/

Photo credit: http://www.hudong.com

突然听见，"豆腐花，豆浆水" 。。。
好想念我老家路边摊的豆腐花叔叔。。。
妈妈每逢星期六早上一定会买一包黑糖豆腐花，然后另加一些豆浆水，给我享用：）

谢谢妈咪！

2009-05-21T18:56:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to

Shawn Johnson & Mark Ballas
(Winners of Season 8 Dancing With the Stars)

Kris Allen
(Winner of Season 8 American Idol)

Photo Credit: Los Angeles Times, Shadowcat Blog

2009-04-19T14:21:00.000-07:00

爱情词典

在寻找真爱的过程里。。。

有些人会想要尝试各种不同的恋爱过程，因为他们不愿就这么轻易的就安居下来。
或许他们认为世上还会有更好的，所以他们还在寻找当中。

也有些人第一次就幸运的找到了他们的终身伴侣。
有种预感他们眼前的爱人，真是他们的理想伴侣。

那你是属于哪一类的呢？

2009-04-18T06:36:00.000-07:00

Yours Moment

Wedding Planning

Easy Free Borders from TagBot Borders

2009-04-07T19:31:00.000-07:00

You are cordially invited to visit <Yours Moment> blog at
http://yoursmoment.blogspot.com/

A wedding-planning-related journal by Rachel.
Created in April 2009

- Dedicate to everyone -

Happy Reading!

2009-03-24T18:27:00.000-07:00

Wedding service that you do not want to skimp on...

Hiring a Professional Wedding Photographer

When the day is gone, it is gone forever...But...Is there anything to keep the memory intact and everlasting? Yes! Photos and Videos!! Let's focus on Photography today.

Photo captures the once in a lifetime moment in your life. We cannot go back and live the past, but with the photos, we can "go back and enjoy" the special moment in life via the tangible asset - Wedding Photos. Therefore, it is essential to hire a skilled and experienced wedding photographer to capture every single moment on your wedding day and for you to keep them forever.

Some tips posted by Stephanie Merry from The Washington Post (amNY, March 24th, 2009)

2009-03-22T18:01:00.000-07:00

~ An interesting blog to answer the question why the couple should hire a wedding planner ~
by www.weddingabc.net

Do You Need to Hire a Wedding Planner?

Couples who are planning for a wedding might have the following question, “Do I need to hire a wedding planner?” In fact it should be very enjoyable to plan the wedding yourselves. Some may even think that a wedding planner is only someone who wants to get some money out of their pockets and they will plan the wedding on their own.

In fact, a wedding planner is not someone who will do everything for you. You cannot just sit down and wait for the results. The wedding planner is meant to be helping you and giving you the most suitable and professional advices during your wedding planning. At the end of the day you still have to make the decisions yourselves. In some cases the wedding planner may even help you to saving money for your wedding.

One of the jobs of a wedding planner is to help you to compare different options for your wedding items. Since they are actively involved in the wedding industry, they will know which companies can fulfill your requirements. With the help of your wedding planner, you do not need to approach shop after shop. Instead, he / she will suggest a few wedding vendors to you and you can just visit these shops.

You may want to have a really modern Chinese style wedding invitation for example. After surfing and searching on the web for hours you may still be unable to find a shop which offers such wedding invitations. Your wedding planner, however, may have already known some shops which provide these wedding cards. They can just suggest these shops to you and this saves you a lot of time for searching. In most cases the wedding planner will accompany you to these shops and give you extra advices.

Besides, a wedding planner can help you to keep the schedules well. You may need to prepare the wedding invitation a year and take some wedding photos three months before your wedding. The schedules are so tight and there are so many items involved. You may forget some of the essential items you need to prepare for the wedding.

In this case the wedding planner can remind you if it is time for you to prepare an item. Since they are professional and have been dealing with lots of wedding planning jobs before. They will know what and when you need to do something from their experiences.

The wedding planner can also help you a lot on the wedding day. You may be already very nervous on the wedding day. Any minor mistakes may make you lose your temper. Although it is the “job” of the bride and groom to become the happiest couple on the wedding day, we sometimes just cannot control our tempers due to the mistakes.

Your planner can help you to take care of all the minor details and try their best to avoid any mistake. He / she will be taking care of the wedding rundown, reminding the staff of the wedding venues how to server the guests and even helping you to get some more liquors if you are running out of wine.

Of course you may not need a wedding planner if you have friends who are experienced in wedding planning. For sure they can help you a lot in planning your wedding but in this case they indeed become your wedding planners. If your friends are not available to help and your budget is allowed, you are still advised to hire a wedding planner.

Conclusion:

What a wedding planner does?
1. Listen to you about your dream wedding.
2. Be there to realize your dream wedding without having you to sacrifice anything and yet in budget.
3. Recommend you to the right wedding vendors that suit your wedding theme, such as photographer, baker, florist, musician and etc.
4. Always keep you on track, especially your budget.
5. Coordinate with your other wedding vendors; make sure they are on time on delivery and put in their best effort to create your wedding day as one of the most memorable moments in you and your family's life.
6. On your wedding day, make sure the two of you enjoy your first moment as husband and wife, as well as to create the wow factor from your guests! ;)

posted by:

2009-03-20T20:19:00.000-07:00

Hmm...It seems like Winter is not ready to leave us yet...
It was snowing on the first day of Spring!! I was so surprised to see snow ... I thought I have got rid of it since the last winter storm at end of February. Well...apparently, I am wrong. That's okay...because I am so ready for the Spring!

Love,

2009-03-19T17:26:00.000-07:00

Hooray!
Winter is gone~
Let's welcome the Spring days~!

2009-03-11T18:59:00.000-07:00

Happy 46th-Month!

Love,

2009-03-08T18:15:00.000-07:00

New Collection of Ralph Lauren Perfume > > >

Romance Always Yours

+ Valentines' Day Chocolate Box as compliment

2009-03-08T16:43:00.000-07:00

A bReeZy eAsY SUNDAY

Daylight saving has just started at 2am this morning. We have one less hour of sleeping time! I never been told about the daylight saving concept until I came across the Pacific Ocean three and a half years ago. Fall 2005 was the first time in my life being exposed to this fresh, new time saving concept. I always wonder who and why these people invented the idea of daylight saving. Maybe I should find out why...

It's Sunday! Nothing can put a big smile on my face, besides the sunny day, my hubby, my family and friends! Yupe...It's the pre-Spring weather this time! The highest temperature of the day hits 65 degree (Fahrenheit)! Wow!! Wow!!! Wow!!!! I miss the "numbers" very much!! Let's welcome the Spring (exact date: March 20th, 2009)!!

I truly enjoyed my walking "trip" on the beautiful-breezy-easy Sunday!
What else is better than finding a nice place for brunch on the beautiful Sunday?
Therefore, I made up my mind to take a trip to West 4th Street Subway Station and explore the neighborhood around that area.

Exploring the neighborhood with help from my hubby was incredibly fun and exciting! He is always my personal mobile GPS! No one could replace his place, his role, his presence. However, we have to do it on the phone this time. He was checking the pancake restaurant online while giving me direction where to go. He leads me from one to the other point during the searching of the restaurant. It reminds me of the 'blind person's game' we used to play at campus, Drake University. I used to close my eyes, hold his hand, and walk as he leads me step by step. I miss it so much. Although it is just a game, but it does require a full length of trust on a person who is giving you direction. And I did. He has given me the confidence in him. Thanks, my dear.
Thanks to my personal mobile GPS! Although I did not go to the initial place where he suggested, yet I did enjoy the experience of exploring the city with his help on the phone!

Here is it >>>

Village Natural Restaurant
Address: 46 Greenwich Ave (between Charles St & Perry St), New York, NY 10011

Facts:
1. It is a vegan, international, health food place in Greenwich Village.
2. The decoration of the restaurant made me feel like home, pretty cozy and homey with wooden tables, chairs, cabinets, and floor.

3. Displays are antique and unique.

4. Servers are very friendly, always put on their smiling faces toward customers.
5. Healthy food + warm service + cozy ambience = a '+' point to my wonderful Sunday!

Let see what have I ordered:
tada...
One of their Breakfast Combinations:
Egg Platter two organic eggs, english muffin and yam tempura
+
A cup of hot Organic Coffee from Fair Trade (Introduced by the server from Tibet)

I love the organic coffee very much! It's fresh and smooth.
The egg platter is a good one to kick start a laid-back Sunday too! It gives you the protein and energy to shopping, for girls maybe?! It applied to me though. It leads me to walk and shop till the day turns dark =p

I will definite come back and visit them again! Hope you will, too!

2009-02-21T07:25:00.000-08:00

Officially...
A new leaf in Wedding Planning Industry!
December 19, 2008

New title: Certified International Wedding Planning Professional
Tan, Siok Yin (Rachel) IWPP

HOME visit 2009

2009-02-16T08:49:00.000-08:00

Thanks everyone for making up your time for ME, especially my dad, mom, aunts, uncles, sister, soon-to-be brother-in-law, cousins, kay ying, kay rui, hao wen, yee peng, jyy huey, wen jye, mei yee, khai au, john, man yeng, chin sien, and all relatives and friends I met throughout my stays in Malaysia. I look forward to seeing all of you soon!

Let the sparkle of fireworks unveil my wonderful CNY vacation, Malaysia.

CNY decorations at The Gardens, Mid Valley.

Mid Valley, Malaysia.

Bai Tian Gong 拜天公 The End

2008-12-21T08:03:00.000-08:00

差点儿就把冬至给忘了。。。
今天早上当婶婶拿了一碗汤圆来我家时才让我想起又是冬至的季节了。。。
时间过得真快，怎么转眼间又一年过去了。我们又长大了一岁。

一年过去了，我在这一年中究竟完成了些什么呢？

在曼哈顿中城（FASHION DISTRICT）工作都快一年了。从原本对晚礼服一窍不通到现在对她的熟悉，还算不错。原来一件晚礼服在商场上看见的竟然是需要进过一短满长的阶段。从设计师的草稿至样衣完成的时间大概需要一个多月（有钉珠的），无钉珠的大概二至三个星期就能完成。

设计师，纸样师傅，花稿师傅，钉珠师傅的结晶品的开始。。。
那结晶品可不是就这样可以摆在商场上或设计师的专柜上，因为那还需要好一段时间。
样衣将会摆放在设计师所属的 Show Room 里，　得让 Buyer　精心挑选好后／Sales Team 的 Sales Forecast。订单一定要达到某个数量才能考虑大量生产。要不然，此结晶品的生命就到此结束了/直到另一位设计师改造后再重新出发。

从订单的开始，也就是订布，样衣重新修改尺寸以达到客人的尺寸要求，和样衣整体的构造监察过程。当所有的尺寸和构造达成后，工厂就能大量生产此原样衣。这段过程是最长和最费时的。。。样衣并不是一次就能通过，要是一次就能通过 - 那也只是难得一见的一次。这费时和费神的过程大概需要两个月的时间。

好了~大货终于完成了 ---〉该是将她从中国运到美国来了！！
此结晶品上市的时刻咯！！希望她会得到非常好的销售量，以便我们能再次大量生产，让更多的女士拥有此美丽的衣裳。：）

除了上班，我还完成了个婚礼企划的课程。终于可实现梦想了！

完美婚礼和婚姻是每个女生，女士们理想的人生旅程。当然，男士也是一样。
究竟谁能让他们梦想成真，而且可让他们无忧无虑的享受他们的另一人生旅途。
当然是要选择拥有丰富经验和教育的婚礼企划人咯！他们不但能帮你完成你们的梦想婚礼，而且往往还能超越你们意想不到的完美婚礼 =）

HMM...总算在2008 年开始了我将来的理想旅程。
加油！Let's celebrate for our achievements in Year 2008 and welcome the New Year!

~ 2009 here we come ~

2008-11-09T11:06:00.000-08:00

Movie Sunday!

Just went for a movie this morning and it was great! Even though there were only five people in the theater room in the early show, I truly enjoyed the musical movie. The movie is good as usual (just like HSM and HSM2).

Life is changing - major decision has to be made - everyone is taking in charged of their future.
High school is not the end, but it is a starting point to move on to a better future and you.

The soundtracks is good, however, I only understand the meaning behind each and every song even more after I watched the movie. Especially the song named "Can I Have This Dance" ...first introduced by my sis - Jyy Huey, who insisted to have her bf to sing along with her...=)

Enjoy the music and sing along with the lyrics provided~!

Lyrics to Can I Have This Dance :
[Gabriella]
Take my hand, take a breath
Pull me close and take one step
Keep your eyes locked on mine,
And let the music be your guide.

[Troy, Gabriella]
Won't you promise me (now won't you promise me, that you'll never forget)
We'll keep dancing (to keep dancing) wherever we go next

(chorus)
It's like catching lightning the chances of finding someone like you
It's one in a million, the chances of feeling the way we do
And with every step together, we just keep on getting better
So can I have this dance (can I have this dance)
Can I have this dance

[Troy]
Take my hand, I'll take the lead
And every turn will be safe with me
Don't be afraid, afraid to fall
You know I'll catch you threw it all

[Troy, Gabriella]
And you can't keep us apart (even a thousand miles, can't keep us apart)
'Cause my heart is (cause my heart is) wherever you are

(chorus)
It's like catching lightning the chances of finding someone like you
It's one in a million, the chances of feeling the way we do
And with every step together, we just keep on getting better
So can I have this dance (can I have this dance)
Can I have this dance

[Gabriella And Troy]
Oh no mountains too high enough, oceans too wide
'Cause together or not, our dance won't stop
Let it rain, let it pour
What we have is worth fighting for
You know I believe, that we were meant to be

(chorus)
It's like catching lightning the chances of finding someone like you (like you)
It's one in a million, the chances of feeling the way we do (way we do)
And with every step together, we just keep on getting better
So can I have this dance (can I have this dance)
Can I have this dance

Can I have this dance
Can I have this dance

(Thanks to Emilie for these lyrics)
[ Can I Have This Dance Lyrics on http://www.lyricsmania.com/ ]

2008-11-02T17:09:00.000-08:00

Changing from Daylight saving time back to standard eastern time...

Earned an extra hour of the precious sleeping time...

2008-10-25T18:21:00.000-07:00

Life is changing...

It's time to stay strong and learn to be independent, Rachel.

Rachel: No worries at all...I am tough~!!!

Dear Randy,
Wishing you all the best in your new job and life in Des Moines.
Take care.

Miss you........

2008-10-12T16:29:00.000-07:00

Friends' Gathering
Thank you for being there for me always, my dear friends.

My girl friend's birthday dinner at South Street Seaport, New York.
Although food was not really special, we had a good time chatting while enjoying the astounding night view from the South Street Seaport.
-(Owen, Randy, Wesley, PARIS, and Rachel)-

Friend visiting - Oh...it has be a while never catch up with my friend from Boston, ever since we graduated in December last year. It was great to meet her again in the big apple city. We went for ShangHai cuisine this time because we were bored of Korean, Japanese and Chinese food eventually. We decided to go for ShangHai Cafe, which is located at Mott Street (between Canal and Hester Streets). I am going to miss their "Lei Sa Tang Yuan"...that's just so tasty! Not to forget another two more mouth-watering dishes - they are "Xiao Long Bao" and fried korean rice cake. Those are the "must try" items on the menu, if you have a chance to visit this restaurant.

New Dessert Spot - From Rice to Riches
They are selling more than 20 types of rice pudding + many choices of toppings for you to add onto your rice pudding too! Hmm...is that possible to try all of them? It is definitely possible to do so, but how long will it take?
Will see...The journey began with HAZELNUT CHOCOLATE BEAR HUG, ALMOND SHMALMOND, SEX DRUGS AND ROCKY ROAD, THE CORNER OF COOKIES AND CREAM, DON' CAPPUCCINO AND TAKE ME TO TIRAMISU...What's next?

Times Square, NYC

Yes, it is times square again. It will be always, never fail (whenever we have new friends visiting NYC). We were "counting down" for Malaysia Independence Day too!! Kaka...look for the clue in the photo =p

M&M Store, times square, NYC
Say Hi to Big M&M Buddies!!
I love the candies here better than the stores out there. I feel the "freshness" of the M&M.
This is another must-go attraction at times square.
This place is not exclusively for kids, you will like it too!

2008-10-12T11:52:00.000-07:00

Parties and Karaoke sessions!!

~ At the Monster Karaoke, Flushing, NY ~

= Crazy time =

^ Galaxy Karaoke, Manhattan, NY ^
* Mid-Autumn (Moon cakes) Celebration *It was way nicer than eating outside!!! And, it was much cheaper than having steamboat at the Restaurant.

Happy Moon Cake Festival!!!

$ Blvd Club $

2008-09-21T17:13:00.000-07:00

Last day of Summer 2008

Time flies, summer 2008 comes to an end.
It was my best summer in the United States ever!
I truly enjoyed the summer. Thanks everyone for making an effort to brighten my day!

Let's celebrate September 22, 2008 - First day of Fall/Autumn~!
Also...it means the weather will be getting colder too~ =(
Take care, everyone.

2008-09-06T19:58:00.000-07:00

~ Homemade food ~

2008-08-23T06:56:00.000-07:00

~ A Day to Celebrate ~

Happy Birthday to Rachel Tan

A very very nice homemade fruit tart!!!

Thank you for all the wishes and I truly enjoyed my birthday celebration!

~ With my fruit pie =) ~

Yummy!!! Thank you for preparing the sweet pie for me!!

Thanks daddy, mommy, sister, brother, cousins, randy, yee peng, jyy huey, kay ying, paris, and all my friends...

I love you!!!

A piece of luck!

2008-07-19T05:43:00.000-07:00

回头想想自已经来了美国近 5 年，好长的一段时间。
不曾想过自己竟然会在外头流浪这么多年。真的曾未有过这念头。
或许我从小到大都习惯了依赖在父母身边，胆子确实是小了点，所以我并不会像其他小孩梦想出国念书。

直到了COLLEGE 时期，报了个ＡＭＥＲＩＣＡ　ＤＥＧＲＥＥ　ＰＲＯＧＲＡＭ　－我的人生就因此而转变了。在这ＰＲＯＧＲＡＭ里，让我认识了许多怀着到国外深造念头的朋友（他们全是有梦想，有干劲的年轻人）。　因该是受到他们的影响而因此改变了我到国外念书的想法。　我从小就在父母身边，寸步不离的。　我想这正是个好机会让我学习独立的时候了。

就这样，我就很幸运的来到美国深造了。当然不少得谢谢父母，我的家人，朋友的支持和鼓励。　真的很感谢他们一直以来对我的信赖和关怀。我真幸福哦！！！

幸运的事不仅于此。。。

经过了所有的考验，完成了大学深造，还得经过重重的难关。。。
找个好老板，好公司，　好同事，　最总要的还是那ＩＮＴＥＲＮＡＴＩＯＮＡＬ　工作准证　－　Ｈ－１Ｂ。
没有了那Ｈ－１Ｂ，就不能再逗留在美国了。　还好我公司愿意为我申请那Ｈ－１Ｂ，　为我制造了逗留在美的机会。

５／２２－好消息的到临
刚刚结束了我的漫长假期，　回到了自己的　ＡＰＡＲＴＭＥＮＴ。
回到家里的感觉真好。。。躺在舒服的床上，　开启我的手提电脑。。。
更让人振奋的是　－　我尽然幸运地被抽中　－　Ｈ－１Ｂ！！！
高兴地跳了起来。　谢谢！

希望幸运的事会传播到每一个关心我的人身上！　

2008-07-16T16:40:00.000-07:00

Wow...It has been awhile not being able to update my personal blog...
There were tons of reasons to explain why it is not updated...
either lazy or too busy - surprisingly both are applicable to me!

Let's start with the July 4th Weekend ~
Woohoo...a long weekend - such a good news for everyone!
My boyfriend, uncle and his family, my colleagues, and friends went to Foxwood Family Camp Site for a 3days 3nights camping - friends gathering.

It was my first experience for not sleeping on my own bed but at the camp site/wood/forest, never ever for the last 21 years (hotel room is an exception). To be honest, it was hard to adapt to the environment at the camp site, especially the public bath house/rest room. It looks worn-out and DIRTY!! OMG...can you believe I actually bathed in the "special" bath house?

LEt's forget about it and move on to talk about my first water rafting experience...

Pocono Whitewater Rafting, PA - 45mins away from our camp site.

The experience is precious! Although it wasn't as challenging as the higher level rafting, it is a good way to train everyone's team work spirit! Rafting not only counts on individual physical fitness, but team work spirit as well. The whole team will never reach the destination if they are not working as a team.

My cousin and I were arguing with each other for the first part of the rafting session. We were disagreed with each other in the rafting way and we just can't move forward as fast as we supposed to. It made the rafting session harder than it should be.

Finally we came to an agreement and it worked out well!! We turned out to be one of the first 3 rafts to reach the destination, because of the true team spirit...

Good job and it was a fun weekend!

2008-05-11T15:25:00.000-07:00

2008-05-11T10:11:00.000-07:00

转眼间三年过去了。。。
我们也成长了许多，经历了好多的事。谢谢您一直以来对我的体谅与陪伴。

当然爱情并不是每天都甜甜蜜蜜的（或许它会发生在童话故事里，但就肯定不是在现实世界里）；偶尔还是会有吵架或达不到共同意见的时候。长久或短暂的爱情：选择权利在于那一对情侣。谈谈长久爱情使吧。

长久爱情使者总是明白这世界上形形色色不同个性的道理。他们明白不同个性有着不同的观念，意见不和是无可避免的。维有花点时间去了解对方，从另一个角度去了解整件事情的经过。问题很轻易就能解决了；将所有的不同点转为相同的出发点。欢喜大团圆。
“Like putting yourself in another person's shoes and think from their point of view. You will realize how much difference it could be. You will be surprise with the result too.”

有时真的觉得自己很幸运在三年前的今天成为您的伴侣。因您的出现带给我许许多多珍贵的回忆。您懂得如何去体谅您的伴侣，慢慢花心思的去了解对方找出那共同点。

Love you forever and Happy 3rd Anniversary, My dear Randy!

2008-04-27T10:08:00.000-07:00

WoOhOo ... Shopping Spree again!

Saturday (April 26) was claimed to be a stress-free day by Princess Rachel!! Hooray!
It has been a busy month and more coming up next. Workload drives me crazy sometimes.

Therefore, it is always great to have a weekend getaway to release stress once in a while.
"In an online article, it mentioned that we do need a certain amount of stress in our lives, so it's more a case of stress management and not stress elimination. However, what each individual considers stressful depends on many factors, including your personality, general outlook on life, problem-solving abilities, and social support system." - ezin article

What else better than spending time flipping through nice clothings in the stores if you are stress, ladies?!

It has been a while not being actively involve with the new fashion trends due to the cold season and laziness. Therefore, I am going to break my routine activity of staying home every weekend. I am ready to bring back the nature to my life by traveling (shopping, pay a visit to the local bookstores, & teaing time) and socializing with friends.

I love spring and summer a lot! Bright, sunny day and warm weather are always associated with me. That might be a reason why I prefer sunflower and white lily than red roses. Furthermore, with nice weather and flower blossom season, it may cheer up everyone on earth! Don't you think it is great?

To continue with good mood, I decided to do some shopping at Soho (stands for South of Houston) and also around 34th Street Herald Square before meeting with old friends (Ming Kuan, Paris and Wesley) for Korean Dinner.

* Fashion *

First stop: SoHo > EXPRESS
Place where I bought my new denim mini skirt and a dressy skirt for work. Love them!

Taken from Express.com

SoHo > ZARA > White Blazer

SoHo > Nine West > Navy Leather Covered HeelsTaken from Ninewest.com

SoHo > MNG > Turquoise Tank Top

34th St > Ann Taylor Loft > Petite Black Sweater

Manhattan Mall > Charlotte Russe > Red Silk Dress (Good Deal)

* Food Section *

Koryodang, Inc. - Korean Bakery

Fruit Shaved Ice

Green Tea Shaved Ice - aka. PatBingSoo in Korean

The shaved ice was nice...but it is pricey!! It costs $9 for a bowl of shaved ice... asking for too much...However, the environment is good. IT is a good place to hang out with, just to make sure you have extra budget for that month =p

Photo taken from koryodang.com

Finally...

Dinner at Seoul Garden, K-Town 32nd St. (Photo taken from yelp.com)

Seafood Soon Tofu (Seafood Soup)
& never forget to order their Jap Chae (Stir Fried Glass Noodles with Vegetable) !!!

I was exhausted by the time I reached home...tOo much of walking for the day. Hehe...
Time to take a rest and continue next time.

Bye ~

2008-04-08T17:22:00.000-07:00

Ringling Brother’s Over the Top Circus

Madison Square Garden, New York

It was my first time to pay and watch the circus. I usually watch it for free. Hehe...I could still remember the old times where dad brought us to the fun fair and watched the mini circus. So nice to cuddle my dad while watching the tiger or lion show...Miss the moment so much...

It was a big show to me...From a free, mini circus to a ticket issued, giant circus with more than 100 living things in the show. It was fun, yet I am not a big fan.

Let's move onto the photo show ---

= Full House =

2008-03-25T06:58:00.000-07:00

LosT anOtHeR PaiR of EarRings

I have lost more than 10 pairs of earrings ever since I came to U.S. three years ago...
They were my favorites...sob sob...

2008-03-22T15:51:00.000-07:00

Yup...Finally made up my mind!

I woke up quite early this morning, thought of joining my uncle for the Taiwan Election News.
Well...I have to admit that I am not as enthusiastic as he does. He actually watched the whole Election process from midnight till 6:30 in the morning. He only had two hours slept before he sends his son to the tuition center in Manhattan at 8:30am.

Again, we paid a visit to our friend's house in New Jersey (NJ) before she leaves for H.K. I am glad to see her smile again with her blushing cheeks. She seems like she is getting better, yet getting sick of tasteless food, tones of medicines and supplements. Pity lady.

While getting sick of all these, I think she must be thankful to have all her good brother, sisters, brother-in-law, husband, son and friends who will always be there to take good care of her. Needless to worry much about things she used to take care of. I am so happy to see how helpful and friendly her siblings and family members are. They are so kind and their relationship is good! They can really be role models for anyone of us =)

Lastly, I wish her all the best in H.K. and come back to U.S. soon! We will miss you!

2008-03-21T20:13:00.000-07:00

Rewards for myself!

People need to be rewarded for their hard works and recognition is a motivator (not only from others, most importantly, by themselves)!

As usual, I went to shopping after work just now. Sometimes, I really enjoy shopping alone…but only during day time. I myself also wonder why I feel so unsecured to go home alone at night. Therefore, I will usually get back to my apart before the day gets dark.

I saw a clothing shop is having sales on the way to the subway station at 34^th Street, Manhattan. Unfortunately, it will be closing down soon. Well…this is not the only shop closing down in Midtown Manhattan. In fact, there are many clothing shops in Fashion District closing down one-by-one. Will these caused by the poor market performance in recent year? Or it is getting more competitive to stay strong in the fashion world?!

My personal opinion is both factors affected the retail sales. Plunging stock market, credit crisis, home mortgage issues, higher crude oil trading costs, higher inflation rate, weaker currency rate, higher CPI, lower employment rate, etc… all are contributing to the poor market performance which in turn reduce the sales in market. Conservative, less aggressive consumers would rather save more money for future than spending extra money in the market. Even aggressive consumers lower down their spending yet still maintaining their usual lifestyle. It reduces the volatility and prosperity of the market. Hence, consumers spending less amount of money on unnecessary stuffs, especially clothing and vacations.

Owners in the fashion market are not only affected by the prosperity of the market. They are also important for them to stay strong and tough in the fashion world. Weaker players will be kicked out of the market and stronger new comers will be the upcoming next players in the market. This is a basic rule in every business. Only new, creative, imaginative, consumer friendly, updated business will get to stay on the line. In order to survive in the market, they have to be creative in managing their business and then to attract buyers/customers. Good Luck!

Before the store is closing out, I managed to get myself a pair of cute and spring-feel sandals. I like the design and also the painting on the sandals, One of the “must-have” in Spring! =)

Shopped happily and went home for dinner!

Below is part of my old collection:

2008-03-20T19:09:00.000-07:00

? A Should or Shouldn't Question ?

My uncle is going to visit his old friend who is leaving for H.K. this Saturday.

I have mentioned in the other day where we have a friend who diagnosed to pancreas cancer and only have about half a year to enjoy the rest of her life. It was a shocking news for her family and friends. She has went through many times of operation and medical checkup, but there was no signal of illness at all until her last checkup.

Everyone was numb when they heard the news, especially her husband and close friends. None of them seem to be prepared for this moment. 心里真的觉得很酸 (sour feeling)。
She seems so weak now...难道就只能在等死吗？？

Should I pay a visit before she leaves for HK? It sounds like a "forever" farewell, instead of a party full of happiness and hopes. I hate this, but I have to face it no matter how.

What can i do??????
Even if I am a doctor, I have no medication for her at all.
Even if I am a priest, I can only pray hard for her.
Even if I am a good cook, I can no longer cook nice food for her.

What else can I do to make her feel better without feeling pain? How could I make her feel happier?

I am so useless, I can do nothing at all.

2008-03-20T18:35:00.000-07:00

It's SPRING!!!

March 20, 2008 First day of Spring

今天是春天的第一天，但为何我却未能感受到春天的气息呢？
天气还是一样的冰冷，风大得就要把我给吹走似的。晚上睡觉也能听见那寒冷的风声，有时还真的觉得有点可怕。

让我想起我的最爱。。。
真想他现在就在我身旁，每天清晨都能看见他可爱的模样。

爸爸，妈妈，我也非常的想念您们。我真后悔为何去年的夏天没与您回家，真是个傻瓜！
保佑我会拿到H-1B VISA，那我明年就可以与您们一起过新年了。好期待这一天的到来。

2008-03-16T18:05:00.000-07:00

Be a 1-Day New Yorker Tour Guide/Tourist!

It was a wonderful Saturday morning, nice suNny dAy!

I was so excited to meet up with my friends from Des Moines; Shobana, Esther, Muhe, Shze Yeong, Nicholas and a new friend, Soo Jen, from UNL! They will be staying at Crown Brownstone Hostel which is located at Brooklyn, for the next few days.

Well...I really enjoyed travel around NYC with them. I enjoyed being a little NYC tour guide for the small group of friends. I could only say that I am an inexperience tour guide, and I only based on what I have been through when I first visited NYC three years ago.

I am so sorry to lead them a wrong direction to the Malaysian Restaurant. I made a mistake between the name of the restaurants. I thought "Sentosa" Restaurant is the one that I go for breakfast every Saturday morning. Who knows the real name of the restaurant is - Oversea Asian Restaurant (食为天）!! However, I am glad to see their satisfaction smiling faces. I know it has been a while not being able to enjoy the Malaysian Food in Des Moines. That's the reason why I decided to bring them to the Malaysian Restaurant as for their first Malaysian Breakfast in NYC! We ordered Nasi Lemak, Curry Mee, Asam Laksa, some Chinese Cuisine, and last but not least, our favorite - Iced Milo! That's just so yummy! Thanks to all my friends who bought me such a delicious breakfast!

After breakfast, it is time to begin our journey!

Our first stop was Museum of Sex. To be honest, I did not know where this museum is, what is showing in the museum, until I travel to the Museum with my friends last Saturday. It is located at W27th Street (5th Ave), Manhattan.
It is not a really grand museum as expected, but it does include something for everyone besides kids/youngsters below 18. It is divided into three galleries: Accessories/tools Gallery, Action Gallery (movies/video clip), and lastly, the little sex tools/arts/accessories/drawings/photos gallery. There are nice old to modern sex movies/video clips. There was a video clip showing many different ways of having sex...Besides the three galleries, there is also a gift shop downstairs. I found some cute and flavored condoms, yet I did not buy them at the end. In conclusion, it was an Interesting Sex Education trip!

Moved onto 34th Street (Herald Square) - I love Macy's Spring Window Display very much! They have great and creative window display designers! Their Spring window display was inspired by floral. A fabric big button works as the stigma, and drapes as the petals - combined as the background of the window display. Also, it is used to featuring the new Spring Fashion. Brilliant idea! Good job for those involved!

42nd Street - Times Squeare -will never miss this out!
As usual, it is always crowded and the busiest place in the city.
We stopped by M&M for some sweet treats! Guess what I got....??! I found my name's stickers!!! Yeah!

It is so cute...my little stickers book.

Finally, NBC Studio Tour was the last stop before I leave for home.
Haha...time to visit the scenes behind the screen. It is always interesting to know how things work out behind the screen and it is a good chance to learn more about the National Broadcasting Company which located at Rockefeller Center. Although I am not too enthusiastic about the history/story given by the tour guide, I do appreciate his time and effort to keep entertaining us and giving information to us.

Oh...I miss my scones and rice krispy!!! Thank you, Shze Yeong, Muhe, Nicholas, Shobana, Esther and especially Sandy, and Randy!!! Thank you very much!! I really enjoy them, LOVE them! Miss having fresh giant cookies too =)

I am so tired by the time I reached home...zZzzzZZzz...Good Night.

2008-03-12T17:13:00.000-07:00

Devil Wears Prada ---> Ordinary Working Lady Wears Prada version

As usual, I took a train to Manhattan Midtown this morning. You will not surprise to see people reading books/magazines/newspapers, listening to Apple Ipod, playing PS game, having breakfast, chit-chatting, sleeping, day-dreaming, make-up, and CHANGING HEELS/SHOES for work!

Yes, I saw a lady wearing PRADA heels in the train! I wondered how much a pair of PRADA heels cost?! Here is my solution:

Original Price: 614 USD
Sales Price: 416 USD

Retail Price: 573 USD

Retail Price: 699 USD

Retail Price: 311 USD
(A pair of sandal as simple as this, cost you and me a fortune~!)

Unless I earn 100,000,000USD annually, I will never spend more than 200USD for a pair of shoes/heels.

My dream: I hope I will be no financial constraint by the age of 27.

Resource: http://www.raffaello-network.com

2008-03-11T20:07:00.000-07:00

Blue Night - Michael Learns To Rock

Love this song!!!

(Music: Jascha Richter and Soulpoets. Words: Jascha Richter)

Lately you have been asking me
if all my words are true
Don't you know I'll do anything for you

Sometimes I haven't been good to you
Sometimes I've made you cry
And I am sorry for everything

but I promise you girl
I promise you this

Chorus:
When the blue night is over my face
on the dark side of the world in space
When I'm all alone with the stars above
you are the one I love

So there's no need to worry girl
My heart is sealed for you
And no one's gonna take it away

cos' I promise you girl
I promise you this

Chorus:
When the blue night is over my face
on the dark side of the world in space
When I'm all alone with the stars above
you are the one I love

Your voice is calling to me in my dreams
My love is stronger than it's ever been

2008-03-09T17:10:00.000-07:00

Friend's Birthday Party at Englishtown, NJ

Was out whole day on last Saturday...I shall say it was a birthday/shopping trip to New Jersey.

As usual, we all went for breakfast at the Chinese Restaurant call 食为天.
They have nice Malaysian Traditional cuisine (饺子，木薯糕，炸年糕，碗仔糕，芋头糕，番薯糕，kuih talam and etc.) every morning, they could be considered as one of the restaurants in Manhattan Chinatown that offer delicious typical Malaysian food - my favorites!
Of course, these Malaysian traditional cuisines are not the only selling point of the coffee shop. They also offer Nasi Lemak, Laksa, 肠粉, and many more. You may find out more by yourself when you visit Manhattan Chinatown next time! It is located between Allen St and Grand St (not too confirm with Grand St, will check it out and update you soon!)

Partying time!!
What Chinese people usually do during a festival or celebration? Yes, no other better reason than to have "food gathering"!!! People will not only go for one round...it is like a home-style buffet, second and third round, will never run out of food :p
LEt see what we had during the party:
Barbecue pork, roasted chicken and duck, fried mee hoon, fried mee, curry chicken, prawn fruit salad, sushi, spaghetti, AND BIRTHDAY CAKE - Mango Mousse Cake from Fei Tat Bakery, Manhattan Chinatown.

It was nice to be invited...however, I am sorry to say that it could be bored to stay in the same room/house for the rest of the day...ESPECIALLY me, Siok Yin aka Rachel Tan! Never ever lock me in the house for a day...if you are trying to do so, a crazy girl that you should expect by the end of the day. No wonder my mom complains to my dad that I always go out to shopping or tea-ing time. There is no way for me to stay home for the whole day besides EXAM time or when i am sick =p

After complaint to my uncle... (anak manja)
Yeap! I finally get to go shopping!!!!!
I felt like a princess who has a driver to send her off to the shopping mall and pick her up when she is done with her shopping spree.

好心痛哦。。。
荷包大出血了。。。
Must get a personal Financial Consultant soon...(although I am a finance joint bachelor degree holder, I can never control my budget well...- learning ....learning...give me some time!!)

My "driver"/friend, Jackie, dropped me off to the Freehold Raceway Mall which is located at Route 9 South, NJ - 15minutes drive from my friend's house to the shopping mall.

Let see what online expert said about the mall:
"There is a place for YOU, devoted to heightening your standards and maintaining your personal style! Freehold Raceway Mall's wide array of department stores, major chains and specialty boutiques ensures you will leave the mall with exactly what you were looking for!"
Quoted from: http://www.tripcart.com/usa-regions/Jersey-Shore/shopping-malls/Freehold-Raceway-Mall.html

What I could say about the mall is --- It is HUGE!!
There are 5 individual departmental stores, including JCPenney, Macy's, Sears, Lord & Taylor, and Nordstrom. Of course, that's not all. There are many boutiques along with the departmental stores, for instance, Ann Taylor, Banana Republic, Abercrombie, AE, Cache, Express, Gap, Forever 21, Charlotte Russe, Fossil, Bakers, Nine West, Aldo, Bandolph, Coach, Amuse Accessories store, Clair's, Bath and Body Works, The Body Shop, and so many more - US version of Malaysia Mid-Valley Mega Mall or One-Utama!

Here are items I got from the mall:

Surprisingly, black-out happened in this mega mall during evening time!!
I could see nothing, all became black in a sudden. Luckily I am not the only one in the store. If not, I will be the one to faint in the dark - hate of darkness.
The back-up power system went on after a few minutes =) Hooray!

However, the residential areas were still in the dark by the time we went back to my friend's house...Black-out might caused by the Thunderstorm in the evening.
哈哈，大家要享用烛光晚餐咯！
Well...it seemed like everyone enjoyed it pretty much~!
And lastly, we hope the birthday boy's dreams come true (Mom who will recover from sick-story will be continued) and be happy everyday!

2008-03-07T20:02:00.000-08:00

Ridiculously Expensive Breakfast

A bottle of Organic Ginger Drink - USD 5.00
What? 5 dollars for a bottle of beverage? Are you kidding me?
Nothing so special besides additional gas and "raw material - ginger" in the drink.
I will just leave it if I know how much it is going to cost me...
Recommendation: Should post the price of the products in the shop!! Please do according to LAW

Oreo Low Fat Yogurt...
I used to get it from Wal-Mart at USD 0.54
However, I paid $1.50 for a cup of Oreo Yogurt in Mid-Manhattan!!!! Three times the price I could get in Wal-Mart...sob sob...

Conclusion:
Living expenses are just too high in Manhattan, or I should say NY.

Cute Mag Photo introduced by my friend, Sye Lynn!

2008-03-06T18:45:00.001-08:00

Create Fake Magazine Covers with your own picture at MagMyPic.com

Discount Magazine Subscriptions - Save big!

2008-02-24T10:13:00.001-08:00

Chinese New Year Celebration in Malaysia

Happy Rat Year to everyone!

Yet another year staying far from home for this special celebration, CNY.
Here are some photos taken by my sister for her little princess in NY:
(Thank you, dear sister!)

Money Tree 金钱树

My sister, grandma and aunt

My cousin brothers and sisters (from the left): Kit, Wen Han, Pei Li, Wen Yao, and Pui Wan

Ang Pao time!!! BB Uncle, please do not forget to keep one big ang pao for me!

My Three Pretty Cousin Sisters (from the left): Melissa, Angelina, and Nicole

Pretty girl - Nicole

Poser - my cousin sister - Nicole

Chinese New Year Party at Golden Dragon Boat Restaurant!

Shark Fin Soup

京都骨

Steamed Fish, my favorite!

Seafood Pot with 山珍海味

家乡豆腐 Tofu

Ha...My dad never fail to serve his guests well. Such a caring host!

My lovely Mom and Dad! I love you!

My uncle, cousin brothers and sister

Happy Family

I miss all my family and relatives so much.
1st row from left: Singapore Aunt, Grandma, and My Mommy!
2nd row from left: Pei Li, 3rd Aunt, Singapore Uncle, Elsie Aunt, My Daddy, Sister, Yvonne Aunt & My Aunt
3rd row from left: Kong Uncle, Wen Yao, Wen Han & Fook Uncle

Nice and Tasty homemade jelly by my mom!

Close-up on the offerings. There are ang gu gui (chinese cuisine with green bean paste), fatt gou (cake - symbolize wealthiness), dumpling (symbolize wealthiness), fruits (each represents different good meanings), jelly and etc.

Everyone is waiting patiently for the praying session.

拜天公是福建人的传统礼仪。

Table setting for the praying session

Getting ready to 烧金纸

Miss my CNY Celebration back home! I must get home next year!

2008-02-23T09:24:00.000-08:00

Kleinfeld Bridal

I bet a perfect gown is one of the important items what a 准新娘 hope for her wedding, including myself!

Therefore, I have went online and searched for some nice gowns. Here are some sample gowns for Spring 2008 Brides~!

This is a Strapless Empire Waist Silk Chiffon Sheath, designed by Carolina Herrera

This is a Strapless Natural Waist with Silk Princess Ball Gown, also designed by Carolina Herrera

This is a Strapless Empire Waist Tulle and Lace Sheath, designed by Claire Pettibone

This is a V-Neck Natural Waist Alencon Lace Mermaid Dress, designed by Jim Hjelm

Special Edition of Bridal, inspired by the Disney Princesses, Designed by Kirstie Kelly
This is a Strapless Empire Waist Silk Organza Sheath, designed by Kirstie Kelly

This is a Strapless Empire Waist Silk Organza Princess Ball Gown, designed by MaxMara

This is a Strapless Empire Waist Silk Chiffon Sheath, designed by No Ordinary Bride

Please note that all the information and pictures are taken from Kleinfeld Bridal's official website: http://www.kleinfeldbridal.com/

2008-02-23T07:16:00.000-08:00

Attendants List for My Ideal Wedding

Family /Relatives

Father
Mother
Sister
Brother-In-Law
Gia Bee Aunt
Ann Aunt
Giat Niew Aunt
Giat En Uncle
Wan Har Aunt
Cousin - William

William's Grandma
Giat Lin Uncle
Kim Lan Aunt
Cousin - Siok Yee
Siok Yee's Boyfriend
Cousin - Chun Pang
Cousin - Siok Xin
Cousin - Chun Hong
Kim Lan Aunt's Sister
Kim Lan Aunt's Brother-In-Law

Kim Lan Aunt's Nephew
Alex Tay Uncle
Foong Aunt
Cousin - Nicole
Alex Uncle's Father
Alex Uncle's Mother
Alex Uncle's Aunt
大姐阿姨
Ampang Grandma
Ampang Grandma's Son

Ampang Grandma's Daughter-In-Law
Ampang Grandma's Grandchildren
Ampang Grandma's Grandchildren - Ah Hok
Mian Mian's Mother
Mian Mian
Hui Lee Sister
Hui Lee's Father
Ah Gu
Ah Gu's Wife
Ah Gu's Childrens

Angie's Mother
Cousin - Angie
Cousin Brother-In-Law
Cousin - Melissa
Cousin Brother-In-Law

Grandma (Mother side)
Loy Uncle
Kuen Aunt
Cousin - Pui San
Cousin Brother-In-Law
Nephew - Kelvin
Nephew - Desmond
Niece
Cousin - Pui Yee
Cousin Brother-In-Law

Cousin - Pui Pui
Cousin Brother-In-Law
Niece/Nephew
Cousin - Pui Ling
Cousin Brother-In-Law
Niece/Nephew
Cousin - Pui Wan
Cousin Brother-In-Law
Niece/Nephew
Niece/Nephew

Fook Uncle
Elsie Aunt
Wen Han Brother
Wen Han's Girlfriend
Wen Yao Brother
Wen Yao's Girlfriend
Kong Uncle
Kong Uncle's Wife
Cousin - Pei Li
Cousin Brother-In-Law

Cousin - Wen Kit
Wen Kit's Girlfriend
Singapore Uncle
Singapore Aunt
Cousin - Liang Liang
Liang Liang's Wife
Niece/Nephew
Cousin - Kang Kang
Kang Kang's Wife
Niece/Nephew

Yu Zhi Uncle
四姨
Cousin - Bo Yi
Cousin Brother-In-Law
Nephew
Niece
Cousin - Bo Ling
Cousin Brother-In-Law
Niece - Carmen
Niece - Jing Wen

Nephew
Cousin - Kai Fan
Cousin Sister-In-Law
Niece/Nephew
Foong Aunt
Foong Aunt's Husband
Cousin
Cousin
Cousin
Cousin

Cousin
Malay Uncle
Malay Uncle's Wife
Cousin
Cousin
Cousin
Small Aunt
Uncle
Cousin
Cousin Sister-In-Law

Nephew
Cousin
Cousin Sister-In-Law
Niece/Nephew
Cousin
Cousin Brother-In-Law
Niece/Nephew
Cousin
Cousin Brother-In-Law
Cousin

Yvonne Aunt
表姨
Cousin
Cousin
表舅
表姨
Cousin
Cousin
Singapore 表姨
Singapore 表姨丈

Chuen Uncle
Annie Aunt
Cousin - Evonne
Cousin Brother-In-Law
Cousin - Kit
Kit's Girlfriend
Song Uncle
Song Aunt
Cousin
Cousin Brother-In-Law

Niece/Nephew
Cousin
Cousin Sister-In-Law
Niece/Nephew
Cousin
Cousin Sister-In-Law
Niece/Nephew
Cousin
Yong Uncle
Yong Aunt

Cousin
Cousin Brother-In-Law
Cousin
Cousin Sister-In-Law
Cousin
Cousin
Cousin

20 tables will be reserved for My Family and Relatives

Parent’s Friends

Wong Uncle
Wong's Wife
(Temple) President Uncle
President's Wife
Daughter
Son-In-Law
Treasurer Uncle
Treasurer's Wife
Daughter
Daughter

Son
Special Aunt
Special Aunt
Dato
Dato's Wife
My dad's Partner
Partner's Wife
Accountant 1 (Dad's company)
Her Husband
Children

Accountant 2
Her Husband
Uncle
Aunt
Uncle
Aunt
Uncle
Aunt
Uncle
Aunt

5 tables will be reserved for My Parents' Friends

My Bride maids

Cheng Yee
Yee Peng
Mei Yee
Jyy Huey

My Friends

Hui Sam
Hui Sam's Boyfriend/Husband
Hui Yoke
Hui Yoke's Boyfriend/Husband
Ji Ying
Ji Ying's Boyfriend/Husband
Seok Yong
Seok Yong's Boyfriend/Husband
Chin Sien
Chin Sien's Boyfriend/Husband

Hui Wen
Hui Wen's Parents
Hui Wen's Boyfriend/Husband
Wah Wai Kiat
Khor Haw Lun
Fiona Seet
Andrew
Low Kien Ooi
Loh Hong Wu
Choo Li Sia

Lam Ooi Mon
Ooi Mon's Boyfriend/Husband
Ong Hui Kim
Chia Ya Teng
Chia Wen Hsin
Yap Ming Erh
Ng Kuan Foong
Yap Pin Pin
Chow Li Hsien
Kesiny

Tan Su-Lin
Min Mien
Wen Jye
Rachel Lim
Huey Fang
Yin Shi
Pei Ru
Ashley
Cindy Ong
Greenie

Joan
Lynette
Melissa Koay
Shan Yung
Sweet Honey (Name appeared on Frienster)
Li Peng
Ai Peng
Yee Peng's Parents

Ms. Khor
Ms. Pei Yi
Ms. Zoe
Andrew Gooi
Frederick Tan Wei Hao
Tan Hui Yee
Adeline Lum
Alvin
Jia Hui
Yat Choong

Christi
Chong Chia Yiaw
Chai Xuen
Suresh
Sean Chin
Ken Siew
Jing Han
Wan Ting
Shing Lan
Boon Li

Christopher Ang
Yee Ling
Yen Ling
Asif
Veng Wai
Leong Ghee
Kien
Khai Au
Yen Shi
Faisal

Ling Huey
Kay Ying
Kay Ying's Boyfriend
Eva Heng
Wen Ni
Clement
Chia Ling
Rain
Seth
Kim Ming

Fenny
Jack Soh
Liong Lap Hong
John Chua
Wei Ming Toh
Paris Tian
Zhee Zhong
Michelle Ho
Wendy
Jenn Ho

Yeong Chien
YC's Boyfriend
Jun Hong
Colin Leow
Chung Chin
Shie Meng
Su Meng
Sheau Chin
Kok Weng
Kok Lim

Kok Mun
Huey Jer
Mario
Cadence
Zheng
Lili Ye
Terence
Gillian
Gillian's Boyfriend
Valeska

Valeska's Boyfriend
Chun Fai
Chun Fai's Girlfriend
Dat
Cheng Yee's Husband
Mei Yee's Boyfriend
Kelvin Loh Kai Bin
Sine
Sye Lynn
Eng

Chin Ting
Long Kor
Dustin Graber
Sonya Graber
Olivia
Sophia

15 tables will be reserved for My Friends

Total = 40 Tables!

- End of the List -

Will definitely add in more as I might miss them out while preparing this list. No worries!

A Smile Missing Forever

2008-02-19T17:17:00.000-08:00

I feel so sorry to hear that our Hong Kong Artist "开心果", Lydia Shum, has passed away peacefully on Feb 19, 2008.

She was a talented artist, good mother, and also best friends to many people who know her well.

Hope the best for her family members, especially Joyce.

New Cell Phone!

2008-02-17T14:33:00.000-08:00

Time to say goodbye to my old cellphone who has been with me ever since I came to US.
My first cellphone, Samsung, in the State and it was given by my uncle.

Always thought of changing a new phone and i finally realized my dream today. Hahaha...
I got myself a Sony Ericsson S500i, black and green cellphone. Like my kor said, it is so 有型!

Love it and cherish it!

Photo taken from: http://www.sonyericsson.com

Happy Valentine's Day

2008-02-13T18:19:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentine's to every couples in the world!
It's a great day to show your soul mate how you treasure and love them!
Hope everyone will be as blissful as I =)

Experience of First Day of Lunar New Year in a Different Town

2008-02-07T17:37:00.000-08:00

Still remembering the reunion dinner with family on the last day of the lunar year (年三十)? It is a very important and something that is impossible to get rid of in a traditional Chinese family. It is a Chinese custom and tradition. That’s a night where all family members will gather at their parents’ (or eldest sibling’s) house and have the reunion dinner together. All the family members put this day as an important day on their yearly schedule. They value this dinner very much as everyone grows up and getting busy in life. They hardly see each other or run into each other every day; and therefore, they treasure this precious moment very much. Almost all the Chinese employers and employees will never work on this day because almost all of them they will stuck the traffic congestion as to rush home for Chinese New Year celebration and spend more time with their family members. We called this as “balik kampong” in Malaysia. I spent a quality time with my uncle and his family this year. We had “鱼生” (which symbolized energizing year ahead), shrimp (symbolized happy and laugh all year long), fish (symbolized fortune for the year), seafood pot (symbolized good fortune), and a Thai chicken. I came from a typical Chinese background family; therefore, we will have all the good fortune dishes on this special day.

Happy Rat Year!!

~Preparation for Midnight Prayer~

Nice "桃花" for New Year Decoration

I am so glad to celebrate with them this year. I have not been home and celebrate with family since two years ago. Thank you them for taking care of me and treating me as their daughter. Thank you and I appreciate their thoughts.

1^st day of Lunar New Year Wow…that’s just so fun being in NY Chinatown early this morning. As usual, we went to temple and have lunch at the temple. And I will let the following pictures tell you how we celebrated our day!

-End of my 1st Lunar New Year Celebration at Manhattan Chinatown, NYC-

新年快乐，daddy mommy!

2008-02-07T17:32:00.000-08:00

新年了，又是人在他乡的一年。虽然我并不是一个人渡过，而且还是在超有新年气氛的唐人街渡过。我还是很想家，好想倚赖在妈妈的大腿上享受美味可口的过节礼品和欣赏新年特备节目。真过瘾阿！

不知不觉我已两年没与爸爸，妈妈，姐姐，姑姑，叔叔，婶婶，堂弟妹们，舅舅，舅母，表哥姐弟妹们，还有所有的朋友们一起庆祝农历新年了。想起与家人一起出门办年货的时光，一起购买新鞋新衣的时候，总是有种怀念的感觉。总是觉得能与家人一起欢庆这令人振奋的季节，是十分幸福的画面。爸爸，妈妈，我好想念您们！是好想好想！

您们一定要答应我要好好照顾身体哦。如有心事，我永远是您们的好听众，好伴友。能听到您们的声音是很开心的。

祝您们，

新年快乐身体健康出入平安生意兴隆心想事成

想您的颖上

Let Love Lead The Way

2008-01-27T06:58:00.000-08:00

"Let Love Lead The Way"

What makes this world go round
Will the answer let her down
She is so sweet and young
And her life has just begun
What does her future hold that's the story left unknown
Will she make it through her days, let our love lead the way
Part of me laughs (ooooh)
Part of me cries
Part of me wants to question why (question why)
What good is their joy
And why is there pain (ooh)
Why is there sunshine and the rain
One day you're here
Next you are gone

No matter what we must go on
Just keep the faith
And let love lead the way
Everthing will work out fine
If you let love, love lead the way
Sitting there all alone
In the window of her room
Watching the world go by
Brings tears to her eyes
All she sees is hurt and pain, she wants to break the chain
She'll keep pressing everyday and she'll find her own sweet way
Part of me laughs (me laughs)
Part of me cries (I cry)
Part of me wants to question why (wants to question why)

One day you're here (you're here)
Next you are gone (you're gone)
No matter what we must go on (I will go on)
Just keep the faith (keep your faith)
And let love lead the way (I know, I know, I know, ooh whoa)
You can be all that and still can be who you are
You gotta know for sure that it isn't make believe
You may feel weak but you are strong
Don't you give up if
If you keep holding on, you'll never be wrong
Just close your eyes cause it lies deep in your heart, yeah
Part of me laughs
Part of me cries (I cry)
Part of me wants to question why (question)
Why is thee pain
Why is there sunshine then the rain

One day you're here (you're here)
Next you are gone (you're gone)
No matter what we must go on (I will)
Just keep the faith
And let love lead the way (lead the way)
Everthing will work out fine
If you let love, love lead the way
Love lead the way

Source: [Thanks to lucassamantha@hotmail.com, ginger_wiggy@hotmail.com for correcting these lyrics] [ www.azlyrics.com ]

LEGO League Championship, NYC

2008-01-27T06:11:00.000-08:00

I had a relaxing Saturday in NYC, finally free of works! I have been working all day from Monday through Friday, time to give myself a treat - ran away from the busy NYC and went to the Riverbank State Park at 145th Street, Manhattan.

I still remember my first LEGO from my dad at the young age, knowing nothing about robotics but to build my own sweet home using the LEGO.

By seeing all the genius kids in the stadium, how cute and smart they are. I know I am totally outdated and OLD.

Transforming a simple LEGO to a programmed robotic LEGO and complete all the required tests are just not what I thought of when I were young.

Thumbs up for the technology, coach, and students! You all are brilliant!

A Big Thanks to all the parents, supporters, sponsors, and organizers! They are so supportive and always give their best to the children without asking anything in return.

"Brand Name" Yogurt

2008-01-27T05:32:00.000-08:00

Something special I found in Whole Food Store - my name appeared as the brand name for the dairy product - yogurt!

Good for Health! :)

Never thought of people using the name of Rachel as their products' brand name. However, I will reserve the name for my bridal and event management company in the near future!

Rachel’s Bridal

My cousin's 11th Birthday

2008-01-13T20:07:00.000-08:00

Happy 11th Birthday to my dearest cousin, William Tan!

Three-layered Ice-cream cake bought by his cousin sister, Rachel Tan.
Three-layer: Mint chocolate chip, Vanilla, and Chocolate

~ Happy Family ~

A New Life in New York

2008-01-13T19:11:00.000-08:00

Leaving my friends at a place called Des Moines where I stayed for the last two and a half years.
所谓天下无不散之延席

Moving my belongings from Des Moines to New York was a tiresome task. Pack and Unpack are troublesome and tiring. Fortunately, I have my dearest boyfriend, kor kor and di di there to pack 90% of all my belongings into 6 big luggages. I am so glad that they are willing to bring an extra piece of luggage each, just to move all my stuffs to NY.
Thank you and I truly appreciate their kindness.

To start my new life here in NY isn't too hard. I am so lucky to have my uncle and his family here to take care of me. Pressure after school greatly reduced with their kind offer (to stay at their place). It is not easy to stay oversea alone without help from friends. Networking and maintaining a good relationship with others are the key factors to survive in US, especially during job hunting.

I have recently started my full-time job at a fashion production company called Sketch Studio Trading, Inc. My job is to communicate with my clients (fashion designers, specialize in night gown designing) and the fashion manufacturers in China. Acting like an agent to both parties: receiving the fashion drafts from clients, add in some beading designs for the drafts received, sending instructions to Chinese manufacturers in China, receive purchase orders from clients, fabric orderings, garments inspection, cost calculations, etc.

Sounds interesting, however, I am not as busy as the rest of the people in the office. [90% due to the not functioning computer] Hopefully there are more for me to learn on the coming days. Although this is not something related to my major, I am satisfied with the job. This is what I dream of since young (not having chance to further studies in fashion designing). I love seeing and working with fashion field, especially nice night gowns. I could now learn more about this field, earning hands-on experience, and knowing more in details and with a deeper understanding on this field.

Lastly, another excitement --- My company is willing to apply H-1 Visa for me!!! So that I can stay in the US for a longer period while gaining valuable experience. Hopefully everything (every application process) goes smoothly and I will get the H-1 Visa.

All the best to Rachel!

Thanksgiving: Las VegasTrip

2007-12-07T20:58:00.000-08:00

One of my BEST holiday breaks!
I had so much fun in Las Vegas. Thanks to my dearest darling ever! No wonder I love you so much.

We have been to so many places in LV, Nevada. I just couldn't believe I just been there last two weeks ago. It is true that I saw the places in movie which based in LV, however, that was my first time see the REAL scene!!!

Hoover Dam

Just look like a fake Background picture. In fact, it is REAL.Grand Canyon, a nature wonder

Eiffel Tower, Paris Hotel

Excalibur HotelI acted like I am playing the slot machine, Luxor Hotel.

Botanical Garden, Bellagio Hotel

Las Vegas is truly the most happening place in the U.S., especially its night life. Night clubs, lounges, bars, and varieties of shows, all are SUPER happening at night. I still remember how long the queue was when we were waiting to enter the Night club - TAO.
I like the design of the club so much. The theme of the night club and the "NAME" might be a contrast one.
The design is based on Buddhism, you can see statues of Buddha all over the place. It was sounded weird to me at the first place, Buddhism and Night Club. Is that true? After all, it is simply a theme of a night club. That shows its creativity, indeed!

Night view from Mix Lounge, Mandalay Bay Hotel, 64th Floor

Stratosphere Hotel, the TALLEST building at the Las Vegas Strip

Whereas, Spa-ing is the famous place to go in the morning or afternoon. We stayed at Mandalay Bay Hotel, which is the South part of the Strip, Las Vegas. Here is where I had my 1st Body Massage experience! Really live like a rich man's princess. I spent the whole morning SpA-inG and MassAgiNg ~ happily...

After Spa-ing, what else to be qualified as a 1-day Princess? A GRAND DINNER I supposed.

YUP! We all went to French Fine Dining at the Paris Restaurant, Paris Hotel for a $600++ dinner!! WoW...sounds crazy??! Not to deny - but a little...Fine Dining at Paris Restaurant

Too many to talk about LAs Vegas Trip, however, there is a time constraint at the moment. Need to work on my final assignment and individual paper, therefore, I will let the photo to tell you more on my Las Vegas Trip.

Lastly, let's end with the Fremont Street Experience!

2007-11-11T19:37:00.000-08:00

HAPPY 30th Month Anniversary

Great to be with my dearest Randy Beh. Thank you for being with me all the time.
I appreciate your love, your care, and you understanding.

Happy 2 1/2 year!

Love you,
Rachel Tan

2007-11-11T18:36:00.000-08:00

HAPPY 21st BIRTHDAY

to
My Dearest Sister - Mei Yee

WELCOME to the Adulthood, my dear.
Truly hope you have a great birthday celebration there.
Wishing you the best and cheers!

~ WE Love you and Miss you much ~

Take a sweet bite!

2007-11-02T19:46:00.000-07:00

Feel so tired of studying for exams...
Feel demotivate, disappointment, spiritless...
How can I fall in love with EXAM again?

Will 4.0 student feel tire and stressful to keep up with their straight A result?
This question appears in my mind in a sudden...

I have been worrying for my unfinished tasks, feel depressed when I do not get my daily task done on time. My bf told me not to set too many tasks in a day, my concern is - am I really overdo my daily task? Am I too exaggerate? I am confused...

All I know is:
- I must be strong to overcome all the uncertainties.
- I shall put in more efforts and energies to work hard for my 4.0 GPA.
- I must stay strong in order to survive in this competitive world.
- I shall put in 100% effort to landing a full-time position after my graduation.
- I shall financially self-support after my graduation.

Thank you, my dearest parents.

Keep running, Rachel.
Keeping up the good job.
Future is in my hand.
I am the creative creator of my own future.

Do appreciate the precious support from my family members, my dear - Randy, my *38 sisters - Cheng Yee, Yee Peng, Mei Yee & Jyy Huey, my friends, my host family, and everyone who shares the joy and sorrow with me.
Thank You and here is a big HUG from me!
Thank You.

To my pretty sister - Baby Tan

2007-10-30T12:56:00.000-07:00

HAPPY 21st Birthday to Our Dearest Baby Tan

Hope our sweetie is doing good and enjoying her sweet 21st!
This is my second year not being able to celebrate your birthday with you back home; but i hope you got my birthday wishes through text messaging and also the card which is probably taking an airplane to Malaysia and sending it to your doorstep soon. Birthday present will be coming back when I go back Malaysia next time ya! Let's enjoy a piece of cheesecake first!

I just read Jyy Huey's blog and I found a picture of a pretty girl (hmm...should be pretty lady now...nyek nyek nyek...) holding a bouquet of flowers! That's just so sweet of Huey and her bf~!

Any special meaning and wishes for you during this special day?

It has been seven years of friendship...I just want to let you know that I really treasure this special friendship and also your companion all the time. Thanks for always be there to show me your greatest support and share the happiness with me all the time. I miss you, my dear yee peng.

Promise me you will take good care of yourself, take a rest even though you have tones of homeworks to work on, always face challenges with a smile and a strong determination. Friendship support is going two-sided. I will be here to support you and listen to you all the time. Take care.

HAppy birthday and may your dreams come true.

Interesting Add-on for Gmail Bloggers

2007-10-26T15:27:00.000-07:00

I just found out something new from a friend's blog. It is an add-on photo strips designed by Rockyou.com

So I happily sit there and spent for 3 hours just to look up some old photos and post them in my blog. Miss the old time very much. I wish I could go back to celebrate CNY next year!

Make my dream comes true, please...

My Best Friends Ever - *38 sisters

2007-10-26T15:13:00.000-07:00

Redang's Memories

2007-10-26T13:43:00.000-07:00

Pray for Peaceful Life

2007-10-24T12:59:00.000-07:00

Things can happen instantaneously without our conscious awareness.

Life Cycle
Life begins with the stage of being a BABY. (Beginning)
Life continues with the stage of getting OLD. (Intermediate)
Life has to move on to another level- Holy Place. (Ending)

Enjoy Life, Treasure Life, and Be Great To Yourself.
Pray hard for Life in the Universe.
LOVE

scruMptiOUs Japanese Food

2007-10-18T14:21:00.000-07:00

Have been craving for Jap food since my last visit to the nearest Japanese Restaurant in Des Moines, IA. I had a great time with my darling there for my belated birthday celebration and I fell in love with their services as well as the food there right away. I like the ambiance of the restaurant, it gives me a feeling of relaxation and a good place to enjoy Japanese food..

Restaurant: Appare Japanese Steakhouse
Address: 3769 NW 86th St, Urbandale IA

From my observation, I noticed that there are five sections in the restaurant. They have an ordinary dining place for individual, family, and business dinner. Then a sushi bar for sushi lovers! For those who would like to see some demonstrations while having dinner, they do offer a great place (a square table surrounded the stove) where a chef will demonstrate his cooking skills while serving his guests. The other two types of room are party room and the traditional Japanese Tatami room for gathering or any kind of celebrations respectively.

After falling in love on the first sight, my friends (Eva, Fred, Jenn Ho, Kay Ying, Randy and RuoQi) and I went there again on Monday (Oct 15, 2007). We had a Party Tray (full of delicious and FRESH sushi and sashimi), Spider Roll (soft shell crab roll), Kaki Fry (Oyster), Octopus Salad, Salmon Hibachi, Seafood Udon, Beef Glass Noodles and Plum Sake. Food are so lovely and tasty! Before I forget, we had Mochi ice-cream as the dessert of the night! That's just so great, a mouthful of refreshing Mochi ice-cream. There are five flavors - Red Bean, Strawberry, Mango, Vanilla and Green Tea. These are MUST-TRY items, if you plan to visit Appare Japanese Steakhouse for your next trip!

Overall, good services, good food, worth for the price you are going to pay, and it has an ambiance environment.

Fall Break @ Minneapolis, Minnesota

2007-10-17T17:15:00.000-07:00

Just finished my fall break, back to schooL life now...

I truly enjoyed my fall break. A good time meeting all my old friends (Kay Ying, Zhee Chong, Su Meng, Sheau Chin, Saik Kia and Molly).

My darling, friends, and I went to Minneapolis, to send a friend off to India for a business trip. His friends have prepared a hello kitty go away party for him, that's just so funny yet interesting to know that Zhee Chong (my friend who is going to India) actually like hello kitty??! Anyway, I would like to wish him all the best and good luck working in India. Take care, my friend. We miss you much.

Although we did not have enough time to visit the most popular attraction in Minneapolis - Minneapolis Sculpture Garden with the centerpiece of the garden - Spoonbridge and Cherry Fountain; we paid a visit to the second largest mall in the U.S. - Mall of America. It consists of over five-hundred-and-twenty stores, becomes the second largest shopping mall in total area and the largest in total store vendors in the U.S. when it opened on August 11, 1992. (Source: wikipedia.org) The center of the mall houses Camp Snoopy, a 7-acre amusement park beneath 1.2 miles of skylights. Also inside are a roller coaster, ferris wheel and a log floom ride with a 40-foot drop. Kids and adults alike will discover the joy of the 4-story sculptures in the Lego Imagination Center. And if you've had too much mall, feel free to escape to one of the 14 movie theater screens or the largest aquarium in the state without ever leaving the building. (Source: Minneapolis.com)

There are too many nice dining places where we got no enough time for all.
Well, food that I will never miss out - Dim Sum. The restaurant called Jun Bo. Hmm...yea, there are many varieties, but the quality of the food doesn't meet our expectation. Will try out others next time! :) After spending the whole day in the Mall of America, we went to the Sze Chuan Restaurant for Sze Chuan dinner. Food is good, service is good, however, the environment needs to be improved. The place is too packed for too many customers. Food is too good to attract so many people there. The greatest moment is having a glass of bubble tea, lying comfortably on the sofa, playing cards and chit-chatting with friends. The place for the bubble tea after the dinner called Tea Party. 3 stars rating (out of 5)! This place has the same problem as the Sze Chuan Restaurant - lacking of the "environmental" feel.

Time flies, Zhee Chong is leaving us for a business trip to India for about 18 - 24 months.

He is a good friend who doesn't mind sharing. Sharing is caring, he is not the type of person who is stingy in sharing his knowledge and experiences with friends. He is a nice guy who you will never want to miss out in your life.
Happy Working and keep in touch, my friend!

It seems like eating is the most important thing we did throughout the whole trip. We went to a place called Peninsula, operated by a Malaysian. Although food is not as good as the tradition food back in Malaysia (different taste and texture), except the sambal belacan; it is good enough to satisfy our stomach for good food.

Our trip ends with a shopping spree at the Preferred Outlet on the way back home.
It was tiring, yet fun to stay with all my friends (Randy, Kay Ying, Eva, and Jenn Ho (our lucky junior).

Thanks for giving me a good and relaxing fall break!

Happy 29th Month Anniversary

2007-10-11T19:33:00.000-07:00

HAPPY 29th Month

A stranger you were once.
Then, with a gentle look you took my hand.
As our lives engaged,
you lit my life and I held both your hands.
Now that decades have passed,
ours souls have indeed become one.
How fortunate we are that we have found the love so true that everyone dreams about.

- Laura Veronica Merodio -

I Love You Forever, My dear. My shinning Star!

"When I am in dark, You are my shinning star!"

October 11, 2007

2007-10-11T18:50:00.000-07:00

It has been ages I haven't been able to go online for blogging. Sorry for my disappearance for almost two months.
I am back to life with my brand new laptop ---> HP Pavilion dv2500t series.
I am so lucky that I got a 30% off coupon on any HP laptop!!! That's a good deal for a person who is eagerly seeking for money currently. Need to work harder next month!!

My 21st BIRTHDAY

I would like to give a BIG BIG HUG and a kiss for everyone who made my day such a special and memorable birthday! Sweet...everyone, especially my parents, sister, aunts, uncles, cousins, my darling-Randy Beh, my sweeties-Cheng Yee, Yee Peng, Mei Yee and Jyy Huey, my current and former house mates: Eva and Kay Ying, and EVERYONE who wished me!
I LOVE YOU ALL FROM THE BOTTOM OF MY HEART. Thank you for everything, I really appreciate every single thing from everyone of you. A sincere thank you from me!

MuacksSs!

Same Result, Different Response

2007-08-21T17:13:00.000-07:00

Prepared...
Studied all day...
The result of the outcome was not something I hoped for...

Sorry to disappoint myself, my parents, my dear, my 38 sista, and my friends again.
I have put in the best I could, but I still couldn't get the result.

Anyway, I would like to give a big hug to my lao gong, Randy Beh!!! He is the BEST! Haha...
Thanks for being so supportive and even want me to be guai guai at home and take care of my future . I will never give up to be better, my dear. Like you said, result is a feedback. It is the preparation, attitude towards the goal that count! Behave.

I went to McD with Eva (Drive-thru), to treat myself a delicious Oreo Mc Flurry!
However, it did not taste as usual. It was tasteless. What's wrong with me (I was thinking...)? Why can't I taste the ice-cream properly? Something wrong with my tongue? Why is it tasteless? First time ever! Maybe I am too sad about the result :(

Don't worry, I will be fine! Be tough, Rachel!

Pre-Birthday

2007-08-15T16:54:00.000-07:00

It is August 15th today.
What so special? A day before I turn to be 21st, an adult.
More responsibilities coming along with this age, must think deliberately before making a good decision, a lot more.

I was chatting with my house mate, Eva, in her car this afternoon. We both agree that mix feeling for a person going from 20th to 21st - a normal respond. Yup, that's correct. I feel excited about 21st a few months ago...I can go to places where only open for 21st and above, can buy my favorite white wine by myself, can explore the world of casino, and many more. However, I feel a little worry to be 21st. Can I handle the responsibility what a 21st years old person should perform? I wish I could grow wiser, more mature, and independent. Always believe I can do it! Gambate, Rachel!!!

There are few more hours to enjoy my sweet 20th~!

Aug 13, 2007

2007-08-13T11:11:00.000-07:00

Miss home in a sudden~ (*homesick*)

Miss my family, 38 sisters, and also my dear very much.
I have been celebrating my birthday with my family since my 1st birthday till now...However, it will not happen this year.

Miss you all very much =)

August 11, 2007

2007-08-11T09:24:00.001-07:00

HAPPY 27th to both Randy and Rachel!

Thank you dear for always being there to support me and be my lifetime soul mate. I love you so much. Will be there to celebrate 28th, 29th, 30th, ...FOREVER with you. Waiting for your homecoming this August 24th! See ya~

Summer time @ New York City

2007-08-10T13:54:00.000-07:00

As usual, I went to New York again. That was my third time being in the big apple city. Nothing unusual, weather, people and the city life still like the old times. But I do miss my family and friends there.

I spent a month there, being with my family and friends. Well...I stayed home more often than walking on the street. You might think I am crazy to spend money on the expensive air ticket just to stay home at NY. I am not crazy at all because I have the travel voucher worth $200 from united airlines! I just paid $50+ to fly to NY!

I spent a lot, despite of the cheap air ticket. First, my Tiffany ring, then a dressy dresses, a bag, pants, victoria secret, broadway show (spamalot), hair cut + coloring, calvin klein, a wonderful italian dinner, estee launder facial set, a pair of korean style heels...and other miscellaneous items. It sounds like a luxury trip this time. I truly enjoyed my holiday being in NY, feel relax and great!

Without someone in NY, my holiday will not be as wonderful as it might be. They are my uncle, aunt, cousin, cousin's grandma, and my best friend ever, Kay Ying. Thank you for your warm hospitality and caring treatment. I truly appreciate your time and effort to bring me around, prepared nice food for me everyday, make sure I have enough clean clothes, make sure my weekend fully booked, and the most important thing is their thought (of letting me enjoy my holiday without worrying much for the daily chores, and spent time with me to make sure I'll not be alone). It was a great holiday in NY!

Well, staying at home did not limit my friend zone. I met up with my friends and hang out with some new friends too. They are Wilson, Damien, Ing Tai, Zheng, Elvis, Kelvern, Grace, E-Jing, Molly, Saik Kia, Paris, Ee Hui, Wendy and Xiang Bin. Thanks for giving me a chance to know more about you. I treasure our friendship and again nice meeting you all.

Not a tradition, but I'll definitely pay a visit to the saloon in Manhattan Chinatown everytime I come to NY, AND must be the designated hair stylist of mine. He is really a good stylist with a lot of knowledge and experience. Truly a Pro...
I had my hair cut and coloring too! My hair turns into deep red bronze after a few hours of waiting. I love it, although I have doubt initially. A sense of maturity coming from inside out, look mature too (Kay Ying's comment on my mature outlook) I'll definitely recommend my hair stylist to everyone that I know. You will never regret to be there!

So glad to be 21st soon.
I had a great Italian Dinner with Kay Ying. The Restaurant named Angelo of Mulberry Street, an Italian Restaurant rated #12 among the restaurants in NY. This restaurant located at the center of the Little Italy in Manhattan Chinatown. Their waiters are so cute, especially the one who served us on that night. He is an Italian and he knows a little of mandarin greetings like "xie xie" and "ni hao ma". Well, it took us a longer time to absorb what he is trying to tell us. A thumb up for him and his service~
I had a Pollo Portobello, it is a grilled chicken chop with mushroom and white sauce on it and it comes with carrots and fried mashed potatoes as the side.
While Kay Ying had a Filetti di Sogliola alla Mugnaia, is a fish dish with some salted vege and fried mashed potatoes as its side.
We love it so much!

New York, I will be back again soon!

Adventureland, Altoona, IA

2007-07-13T07:31:00.000-07:00

July 8, 2007

Hot summer!!

Adventureland – an outdoor theme park – 20 minutes drive from Drake University

Feel surprised to have such a theme park at somewhere near to Drake. Although it might not as nice or as big as other theme parks, it consists of almost everything. From marry-go-round to space shot or inverter, it is enough to entertain you for more than 3 hours.

Furthermore, fun fair game is available too. I won my care bear at one of the stalls there. Each trial costs me 50 cents, not a big deal huh! I wanted to give up after my first trial, but I didn’t. I continued the second and third trials till I hit all “cats” on board. I was so happy (just like a small kid) that I finally got the care bear. Hmm…it might be a present to my sis. J (evil’s smile)

Well, there is a circus (magic show) for those who do not like the rides as well as other visitors. All circus performers are well-trained, they are well done. Put on a thumb for all their hard work! I was amazed by the changing clothes magic show. That’s interesting. I wonder how fast their movement going to be or if there is a trick inside??!

Back to the wet wet world ~

We enjoyed it very much. Hmm…the fun part was during the time where the water splashed on John. That was so funny; Danielle and I can’t help but just simply can’t stop laughing at the poor John. Hahaha…finally

Something to add on…I actually took almost all rides that I dare not to take on since young. Opps…don’t ever tell my mum ya. She will faint (I guess). She will say it is too dangerous to play such things.

My day was not end after the adventureland. There are two more to go. First, we went for dinner at Adong, a Vietnamese Restaurant. They serve good food and their vegetable is all organic vegetables! Isn’t it sounds great and healthy? Put a star for Adong!

Try out their vegetable spring rolls and the lemon grass chicken with white rice! They are my favorite!

One last activity of the day – movie time…

We went for a movie called – live free or die hard, lead by Bruce Willis and other casts (Maggie Q is one of the casts). It was a nice show; get a ticket for you at the nearest theatre! You will not want to miss it!

A Wedding

2007-07-11T15:07:00.000-07:00

Western Wedding

My 1^st western wedding experience!
Well, I wasn’t a guest, but one of the waitresses of the night.

It was part of my job at catering, basically to cater people’s needs.

I was so excited to see how a western wedding party looks like…

First, let’s talk about the room layout. As far as I know, there will be a special table specially arranged for the couple and their family members at the center of the first row of tables in the hall (nearest to the stage) – Chinese Wedding Dinner

However, it’s totally different from the one I seen here in the U.S.

They named it as the “Head Table”. It is a long table with chairs prepared for bride and bridegroom, bridesmaids, and groomsmen. While couple’s parents will be seated randomly with their relatives and friends.

Princess’s Opinion: Hmm…Isn’t it better to have parents sitting together with the bride and bridegroom? It is showing respect to the parents and as recognition by both parents. Well, there is an explanation where western parents have given their child the freedom to handle their own matter, thus, it might be one of the reasons why their tradition is different from the Chinese. Also, their culture and people are toward socializing, including a special occasion like wedding. Therefore, seats for their parents are arranged in such a way to enable them to entertain and socialize with their invited guests. It sounds logical overall. Do you agree?

Dang dang dang dang ~ ~

Western newlyweds usually have a bunch of closed friends as their bridesmaid and groomsmen. Their gowns and suits go with the color of the night (theme color of the wedding) and all in the same/different designs.

Wedding marching will begin with the bridesmaids and groomsmen. According to the wedding that I have seen, they have a very simple but good opening. The bridesmaid and groomsmen acted like having a show at the runway, posting at the door and proceed to their seats. Climax – when the bride and groom marched into the hall and proceed to their seats.

Princess’s Opinion: I like the idea of having a wedding theme color! Wonderful idea! It makes the wedding looks neat and simple. In fact, I have my bridesmaids ready for my wedding!! They are my *38 sis: Cheng Yee, Yee Peng, Mei Yee, Jyy Huey, Wen Jye and my cute ex-housemate, Kay Ying. Girls, ready to attend my wedding o!

Special dinner~

They have a buffet style dinner. Also, dessert – the wedding cake is considered as self-service too…besides cutting the cake (which is the job of the waiter)

The fun part is during dinner time. While everyone is eating, the bride and groom will be the host to entertain their guest. Guests will use their silverwares to knock their glasses, which to notify the newlywed that they want them to show guests “something”. For instance, the newlywed may choose to kiss each other in a funny way, have some cute posting, or some random actions to entertain their guests.

Show time ~

Dollar dance

I was wondering why guests start taking out their money and queuing up for a dance?

Angel Danielle came in (stand beside me): This is called a dollar dance where female guest will pay a dollar to the groom and dance with him, whereas, the male guest will pay a dollar to the bride and dance with her. The money will be a source of money for the newlywed’s honey moon trip.

Princess’s Opinion: Oh…what special and unique western wedding tradition. Not a bad idea thou…both guests and newlywed get to enjoy and have fun!

Dance floor opens...

The bride and groom will lead the group and be the first pair entering onto the dance floor. It is then followed by a dance for the bride and her father. It was lovely and warm-hearted. MY tears nearly drop out.

Then, the dance floor will be open to all- love songs, pop songs, as well as group dance.

~ To End The Wedding Night ~

070707

2007-07-07T12:28:00.000-07:00

July 07, 2007

Nice number...
Bridal will be the busiest place among the other business stores...
People just like to have a special date to commemorate their special moment, so do I.
I wish to have my own Bridal Gallery on August 16, 2016!
Work hard yo, Rachel Tan!!!

*Hope couples that are getting married on this day love each other forever and happy always!*

Love my curly hair...

2007-07-03T20:15:00.000-07:00

Was curling my hair last night >>

Phone ringing...ring ring...ring ring...

A: Hey Rachel, wanna watch Transformer?? Will pick you up in 10 minutes time...
R: Okay! (Halfway curling my hair...)

Went for movie with a "not ready" curly hair in the end.
Well...that's not a big problem though. Too dark to have people notice my hair in the cinema. Hehe...

Highly recommend my friends to go watch "Transformer"!!! It is a really nice movie, worth it!

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Continue with my art work!

~~ The oLd time till the pReseNt ~~

My Superbly Cute Ex-housemate ===> Kay Ying Shong

2007-07-02T23:24:00.000-07:00

Ha...this is especially for you, my dear...

I got your message in the CBOX...
Here you go >>>

Kay Ying Shong, ha...she might not like me to call her full name, but I have already used to it. Bear with me, girl.

She is the cutest girl I have seen in Drake. She is helpful, talkative, can't be alone (too much to share with others), "ren jia ren ai, che jian che zai"...haha

On the other hand, she is a tough girl. She has the determination to realize her goals. She is working so hard everyday, just to get through it. I really admire her spirit, Gambate, girl!

I am so lucky to have this SKY Princess as my best friend!
Love you and will see ya soon!

Thanks for the beautiful Graduation Present from you!!!
I like it so much! It is so adorable...

Especially to my dearest sis, Jyy Huey

2007-06-30T08:10:00.000-07:00

I have a closed friend who i knew since primary school...

She is a pretty girl, a pretty sister of mine, an adorable sister.
Her beauty is hard to explain through words, you can only feel it and realize it when you are close to her.
She loves shopping, hang out with family, dearly boyfriend, friends, and her *38empire* sisters, and enjoy every moment with everyone she treasures.

She is an ambitious person who never say never to pursue her dream to be an outstanding lawyer in future.
She has the determination to be a successful lawyer since young.
She has the quality to be a good lawyer.

In order to realize her dream, she pursue her A-level, went through college time, and fly to UK for further study in law. She is so ready to take on the challenge to realize her dream.
After a year of higher level education, it's time for an assessment for what she has done for the past year. Despite of her hard work, she did not get what she expected. She is sad and down. I wish I could be there with her, when she is hopeless and need someone to take care of her. I might not be able to give her what she wants, but I can be her listener at least. Sit down and listen to her patiently - comfort her.

To Jyy Huey:

My dear, I am not hoping you to fully recover in just a few hours or days...I understand it is hard to pick up yourself after the disappointment. I might not totally experience the same disappointment like yours, but seeing a smile on your is the only thing your *38 sis hope to hear from you. We care and love you.

Dear, I totally agree with the angel that "things u learn from all your hardwork will never be taken away". The materials that you have learned are all your assets in fact. Paper (result) is just a physical assessment to test your performance on the spot, it will not last if a person does not practice it always.
However, the only thing that last forever and belongs to you - is your knowledge. - no one can take away your knowledge from you.

"Success is the sum of small efforts, repeated day in and day out" - Robert Collier

"A failure establishes only this, that our determination to succeed was not strong enough." - John Christian Boree

Dear, you have the determination to continue with the game. In fact, I admire your determination since high school. I believe everyone has a dream, but not everyone ready to admit it and decided not to go for it. However, you did amazingly! You are halfway through, my dear. Be disciplined and keep going...You are the master of your mind, don't let it take control on you. You have the ability to success, trust yourself and don't let down by the result.

Treat the result as a feedback for your hard work. If you do not succeed this time, the feedback gives you a hint to try out another way. IF there is a will, there is always a way just in front of you. Depends on you whether to go for it or not. High achievers always go for it, they always take more routes than others to reach their goals. They are not success at once, but they have been through difficulties more than once.

Be patient and keep continue with your positive attitude (put in more efforts), the payoff might be greater than what you think of. Ask yourself if you have committed enough to your work, be consistent, commit to constant and never-ending improvement. Give yourself a peaceful mind, decide on what you are going to do next, what you would like to improve on. Then focus your energy on those goals. Always remember it is not always going to be easy, be ready for the next challenge. But you face the challenge with RIGHT thinking this time, knowing how to pick up yourself and continue to take on the path again and again. The longer you persist the more likely your success. (You might disagree with this last point at the moment since you have doubt on persistent hard work - "who say hard work and perseverance will lead you to success???" )
But I hope you will get through it soon. I can't change your mind, but I do hope for the best thing for you.

Take care, my sweetheart. Give you a big hug to show my concern to you.

WE WILL ALWAYS BE THERE TO WALK DOWN THE ROAD WITH YOU.

NEVER LEAVE YOU ALONE ALONG THE PATH.

You will be fine, my dear. You are a tough, big girl now.

Love you always, siok yin.

~ Just for you ~

You Deserve Not only A suRprise

2007-06-29T10:59:00.000-07:00

but a great surprise from a special person ~~~

Thank you my dear. Baby sotong will be here waiting for your homecoming this August!

All the best for your Badminton Match tomorrow!
Your team will be the record winner of the year!
~ Gambate ~

A failure establishes only this, that our determination to succeed was not strong enough.

- By John Christian Boree -

I am so excited and ready to be 21st??!

A big number --- No
A legal drinking age --- No
Finally can rent a car under my own name --- No

HmmMm...

is because...

It gives me a hint that I should be ready to stand on my own feet, take full responsibility of my own matter, and enjoy the never ending improvement...

I bet everyone would like to grow wiser mentally ... so do I.
I am so excited to learn to be a better person, ready to make a change in my life!

Pray hard for Forever Princess!

Someone important in my life

2007-06-28T22:41:00.000-07:00

That's just like a dream to be here in the U.S. pursuing my bachelor degree in actuarial science/finance.

If you were to ask me have I ever thought of studying in the America...
NO --- why? --- never think of it before.
There are many people that I know, want to come to the U.S. to pursue their dream since young.
Maybe I am a daddy girl...I prefer to stay side by side with my parents. Wish to see them, greet them and chat with them everyday. I love them very much.

They are the one who created the marvellous life for me!
They are my painting brushes:
=> When I am sad, both of them will draw me a sunny day - tell me not to let go the sunshine and be happy always;
=> When I need support, they will always give me strength by drawing me a pair of hands and a rainbow - telling me not to give up and try your best;
=> When I need someone to share my stories, they will draw me a pair of ears - tell me that they will be my audience forever;
=> When I am happy, they draw me serious look and comes with a smiling face - telling me to be humble always and they share my happiness with me always;
=> When I need guidance for future, they draw me a bright sunshine - tell me go ahead to pursue my dream! -- That's why I am here! To make my dream comes true!

Thank you, daddy and mommy!! I LOVE YOU SO MUCH!!
Thanks for being my lovely painting brushes for 21 years, 31, 41, 51, 61, 71, 81, 91, 101, ... forever.

Along the path to my dream, I have met a person who I fall in love with him everyday.
He always being understanding...
He always take good care of this little sotong...
He always be there to support me...
He always cheer me up when i am sad...
He always cheer for me when i am happy...
He never leave me alone...
Never stop to being a good company of mine. He stands for an important role in my life, I learnt a lot from him, and still learning...

Thanks for thinking of me always.

I LOVE YOU, my dear Randy Beh.
- Always be your princess -
&
-- You are my prince always --

Who are there to support me in the middle of the path to my dream???!
They are my *38 Empire* sisters!!!
They always be there to lend their hands to me - - Always Ready
They are the one who trying hard to put on a smile on my face, give me a hug, and be my audience.
Thanks for being my good companies for so long...I MISS YOU ALL VERY MUCH!!!

My sisters:

1st sis - Cheng Yee

3rd sis - Yee Peng

4th sis - Mei Yee

5th sis - Jyy Huey

It's time for me to give you all a BIG HUG and THANK YOU.
I appreciate your efforts, time, and companionship.

You will ALWAYS ON MY MIND.

*Forever Princess* :: Rachel Tan ::