Kuih Lopes ("Jennifer Lopes")

Kuih Lopes
(Steamed Pandamus Glutinous Rice with Grated Coconut)

Actual food should look something like this:

Image source: drugsarefordead (which seriously look very yummy in this photo)

I remembered it was one of those Malay Kuehs that I like very much (the other is Kueh Dada that I learned to make in my Home-Ed days which I have since returned to my teacher). I never knew how these was made though so thanks for the enlightenment by the blogger.

It is said that the grandmother will wrap banana leaf into triangular shape before inserting glutinous rice/sticky rice (pulut) then secured tightly with toothpicks or rafia string. She will then boil the triangular shaped banana leaves for hours (1-2 hours) inside this huge pot. When the water evaporated, she will then take them out and unwrap the banana leaf and the glutinous rice inside the leaves would have formed into a perfect browned-greenish triangular shaped delight. The last step is to dress it up with coconut flakes and then pour the brown sugar liquid (air gula) which is my absolute favourite accompaniment too.

And the days I was with Natalie, my new found lunch khaki, I constantly ate Malay food with her. A rarity because I don't really fancy much Malay food, (and I must say till now I still don't like to patronize Malay Rice stalls.. but then I don't really patronize Chinese Rice stalls either haha!). So there was this stall we visited frequently and they sell these lovely lopes. And to lighten things up, they called the lopes... Jennifer Lopes. I would have loved to take photo but somehow it never occurred to me to take a photo of the signage. And now I'm too lazy to go back there since she has left the company already. So what is left are just the memories of these lovely lopes...

Sigh how I wish I can trade place with her. I had wanted to leave by the end of the month but because she left, I decided to try to tolerate for another one month. Hopefully I can last....

Trading Psychology

This advertisement reminded me of an entertaining story I read before about how strongly psychology can affect a market. It is from the book The New Gatsbys.

It takes place at the Chicago Board of Trade. Soybeans were sharply higher. There was a drought in the Illinois Soybean Belt. And unless it ended soon, there would be a severe shortage of beans. . . .

Suddenly a few drops of water slid down a window. "Look," someone shouted, "rain!". More than 500 pairs of eyes shifted to the big windows. . . . Then came a steady trickle which turned into a steady downpour. It was raining in downtown Chicago. 

Sell. Buy. Buy. Sell. The shouts cascaded from the traders' lips with a roar that matched the thunder outside. And the price of soybeans began to slowly move down. Then the price of soybeans broke like some tropic fever.

It was pouring in Chicago all right, but no one grows soybeans in Chicago. In the heart of the Soybean Belt, some 300 miles south of Chicago the sky was blue, sunny and very dry. But even if it wasn't raining on the soybean fields it was in the heads of the traders, and that is all that counts. To the market nothing matters unless the market reacts to it. The game is played with the mind and the emotions.

In order to drive home the point about the importance of mass psychology, think about what happens when you exchange a piece of paper called "money" for some item like food or clothing? Why is that paper, with no intrinsic value, exchanged for something tangible? It is because of a shared psychology. Everyone believes it will be accepted, so it is. Once this shared psychology evaporates, when people stop believing in money, it becomes worthless.

So do you really believe Forex can let you earn 405% of the return? Unless you really are a genius in reading the minds of the human and astute in your judgment...

Voglia

Voglia, Italian for Desires. My favourite word of the day.
So what do you truly desire?

This is something I have been wondering. What do human truly desire? Because sometimes what we desire might not be right for us. And sometimes we dare not achieve what we desire. Frankly, I dare not hope to achieve what I desire. And I'm not sure what I truly desire.

Ms Sumiko Tan getting married is a happy event. But it has also became a thought-provoking event for me. While everybody (or those who are her fans) are happy that another real-life fairy tale had taken place (seriously the plot does has elements of fairy tale in it as it transcends time, and hopefully it has a fairy tale ending of "happily ever after" too), I started wondering that this has came to no surprise on me. Years, she had written countless articles which periodically will dwell on singlehood. She may be Singapore's most famous single bachelorette, but deep down, she had shown signs that she just wish to be the typical happily married lady. And why not, if that is what she truly desire.

Which brings me to my next point, why do people have long courtship and not get married? 'US' is a big word I must say, and probably by conventions, after courtship comes marriage is a natural progression. And thus if one cannot progress to marriage, he/she must then decide the ultimate - the Break Up. But to hover in the courtship for an infinite time, is it deluding oneself? Or is that also something one truly desire? I always thought that your heart knows if the person is right for you and you don't really need to ponder too long. And truth is, Ms Sumiko did not ponder too long, proving my point that if this is the right one, and if you are serious in making the commitment, then marriage should be on the cards. So why is marriage not on the cards for some of the other couples?

Maybe I was too rational? Which is a sin to be when you are in a relationship. They say being too rational, you do not love that person more, or maybe you don't even love him at all. There were times I would argue back on this point, but what is the use when it has been proven that being rational will indeed made one wakes up from the fairy tale and gives reality a serious thought. Rationality does not equate to feelings. But irrationality does indeed make you more reckless and show what your heart truly desires. So I don't argue with people who blame it on irrationality for liking a person more. But I feel, whether you are rational or irrational, the amount of feelings you have for someone has already been decided... since the day the red string has been attached to the two of you. And that is what your heart truly desire to risk.

So back to the big question, what do you truly desire?

忍不住 想要愛你的衝動
不確定你屬於我 會有點寂寞
你給的幸福 在我心中自由走動
撫平我每一個傷口
忍不住 想要吻你的衝動
不確定我的執著 能讓你感動
我只能相信自己感受 不怕失落
關於你的一切 我想要比誰都懂

你是情人 還是朋友
還沒勇氣 想得太多
你的世界 如此遼闊
我會在哪個角落
- extracted from 蕭亞軒 - 衝動
p/s: don't know why, I just felt it was quite apt for someone whom had just "argued" with me about irrationality making her feel foolish. Actually in life, sometimes being reckless and stubborn is the key to find out the answer. Which is why I am currently in a reckless and stubborn mode (not forgetting being in a secretive mode too).
pp/s: this post was actually written on 12th Aug 2010.
ppp/s: got reminded of the vertical marathon once again. And once again, I'm sure I will not repeat it (oh ya I have not blogged on the NLB vertical marathon... will do so after a few more drawings).. I will once again re-iterate my favourite lines
逃到很远的地方前
先逃到很高的地方
And re-iterate that my heart desires lie in going somewhere faraway, as faraway as I can reach. An escapist at heart. That is what my heart truly desires. Anyway I repeated alot of vertical marathons this year, in Italy and in NLB.

Cash in 5 Minutes

It was a POSB advertisement that sparked me to draw this. I remembered how utterly depressed I had been by that time. Felt like a cassette player repeating the same lines 300 times a day. (Almost got nightmare every night except I was worrying about other stuff more.) And my lunch khaki whom I just bonded had decided to leave by end of the month. I wish fervently that I could leave too. But it was not to be for my case. Both R and PP had chosen someone with more experienced even though they say my attitude is better. And I am tired of hearing companies telling me they don’t need someone experienced but end up always choosing someone more experienced (as a bonus). Maybe I am sick of the corporate world?

Loan application. A band aid solution in my opinion. I wish I can abolish this practice. But it is here to stay. And I cannot deny the fact that how many people out there really need a loan. Housing loan. Car loan. The so-called necessities in this cruel reality. I hate to ask people if they need a loan. But I cannot deny that a fixed repayment method is probably the best solution for these people who has a tendency not to pay even when they have spare cash as what a client shared with me. Or that consolidating their debts to its minimum would really be a good idea for these people.

Sigh. Loan. A necessary evil. And something I will have to face for another 1 more month. But I am getting sick of it. And the politics is getting more and more serious now… (A few days later, I was called up by my boss for a chat to provide a middle person’s perspective. Something I tried to avoid all these while. But I also hope 大事化小，小事化无.) Oh well, everything happens for a reason; just as why I am stuck in this situation is probably to train a particular aspect of my personality. And I admit, these people I mix with are different from the corporate world. They are sales people aspiring to be leaders. And I learn a lot from them which I hope to post it soon.

水是福

It has been a rainy month this month and twice I experienced mini flood. The first time was the infamous Orchard River though it subsided by the time I reached there. The second time, it was at Aljunied. But while most of us only cringed and be on-lookers, I saw 2 men who was willing to get themselves wet to help the cabbie. And I thought about ARK which I still have not accomplished at all. (Many days later, I realised that one of my boss actually practised ARK almost everyday and my impression of him changed, but that is a story to be told another day.)

Anyway the actual drawn scenario should be this... but hmm I was drawing from memory so well of course it differs GREATLY.

It also got me thinking if water is fortune or misfortune? Or like they always say, too much of something is never a good thing. Whichever is the case, what I really pondered is, if I'm back to olden village days, how would I react?

Teacher vs Educator

Source: Email

Lipstick in School

According to a news report, a certain private school in Sydney 's Eastern Suburbs was recently faced with an unusual problem. A number of the girls were beginning to use lipstick and would put it on in the bathroom. That was fine, but after they put on their lipstick they would press their lips to the mirror leaving dozens of little lip prints.

Every night the maintenance man would remove them and the next day the girls would put them back. Finally the Headmistress decided that something had to be done. She called all the girls to the bathroom and met them there with the maintenance man. She explained that all these lip prints were causing a major problem for the custodian who had to clean the mirrors every night (you can just imagine the yawns from the little princesses).

To demonstrate how difficult it had been to clean the mirrors, she asked the maintenance man to show the girls how much effort was required. He took out a long-handled squeegee, dipped it in the toilet bowl, and cleaned the mirror with it.

The silence was broken by a large number of gasps, a few girls vomited and apparently someone fainted. Since then there have been no lip prints on the mirror.

There are teachers . . . and then there are educators.

Bflygal comments: Lately I have been thinking alot, from should I go back schooling (but I don't want to waste my money and time hiding in school anymore... I rather self-learn stuff I want to learn) to should I try teaching (of which this story reminds me that what I really want to do is be an educator.. except do I have the capability?) to if only I am good in photography to be able to join Photography without borders and picture a better world. Unfortunately I am neither good in medics, nor in photography. Headache.

Father's Day 2010

Ever since After 1777 saga, grandpa was never the same again. When I visited him, I pondered how much memories could one store? At age 91, would my memories overflow? No-no, in the first place I don't even wish to live more than age 50. But looking at his aged face, I cannot help but wonder, what did he chose to remember and what have he chose to forgot?

Actually it was just coincident that I have visited him on a Father's Day because truth is, it had been a quiet affair. And the atmosphere there made it more somber. Hmm I found a museum I want to visit though except I need to be there in weekdays. Shall see how it goes.

On the way back, I caught sight of a butterfly visiting us. Should have taken video of it because it was fluttering constantly and was unable to take any still photos.

Angel Reading on 19th June 2010

Angel of Hearts Desire 

Full Meaning:
What heart felt desire might you need to be paying attention to at this time? This Angel has reached out to you at this time to help you make it a reality!
Too often we all tend to set aside the desires of our hearts because we don't believe they are possible to achieve. We may think of all the obstacles that we may have to confront instead of the joy we shall feel in taking the steps we need to in order to make them manifest. This Angel has come to you to tell you that if you follow the yearnings of your heart, the Universe will literally move heaven and earth to insure that you achieve your desires! The ways of the Universe are infinite and more creative than we can even begin to imagine. If you begin by taking even one small step, the Universe will respond and in bigger and better ways than you imagine! Take another step and the Universe will respond again, rewarding and blessing you many times over because you have found the courage and strength within yourself to allow yourself to live your life from your Soul's level.
The desires of your heart do come from your Soul. Your Soul which is the Higher or Expanded Self that knows all that you are capable of being and doing. It sees your true potential and sends you the longings to fulfil your heart's desires because they are the only desires that are truly worthy of your achieving. Yes, there may be many other things that you accomplish and manifest in this life that are good and worthwhile. And yes, they may fulfil you on different levels for a time. Yet they never seem to be what you truly want for yourself and your life. There is always this longing for "something more" that you may not always be able to define in words, and yet you recognise as coming from the deepest part of yourself. You may have thought that by achieving goals that you hoped would take the place of your true heart's desires that you could feel satisfied and happy with that, that the longings and the "what if's" would somehow be diminished and eventually cease to be. Yet you can never put out the fire of your own Soul! Even if you were able to dim it to the tiniest spark, it is infinite and can never be put out. This Angel is here today to remind you of this. So stop trying to stamp out your own inner spark and instead choose to start moving in the direction you really desire to be moving in! This Angel says it is time!
The Angel of Heart's Desires is also a very protective Angel. It is protective of you AND your dreams, for it knows that there are people in this world who because they have chosen not to follow their own heart's desires, they are not able to give you the support and encouragement you need. Some may even try to stop you cold in your tracks by telling you all the reasons they think you can't do it. They may say you are not good enough, do not have the proper education, too old, too young, too this, too that. Or it would take too much money, time, energy and effort. This is why this Angel is likely to encourage you to only share your heart's desires with those people whom you absolutely know will support, honour and respect them. It can be so easy to listen to someone else tell you why you cannot achieve something and yet think of it this way; do you really want to listen to people that never even made the attempt to manifest their own heart's desires? As a very wise person once said "you don't go to someone who has had a series of failed marriages for relationship advice" and the same holds true here. The only person right now who needs to know anything about your heart's desires is YOU! That's it! YOU are the most important person in this equation. And if you are truly intent on manifesting that which your Soul is leading you to, then the Universe will find an abundance of ways to surround you with people who can and will support you every step in of the way.
This Angel works hand in hand with the Angel of Dreams. The Angel of Dreams often tries to find a way in first because it knows that the dreams you can allow yourself to have are guideposts along the way to even deeper desires. The dreams that we can begin to think are even a little bit possible help to provide the foundation for our biggest heart's desires. We gain confidence and faith in ourselves and the Universe as we make progress on our dreams so that when the Angel of Heart's Desires knows the time has come to make its presence known, we are feeling ready to take this next and one of the biggest steps yet! By acknowledging the presence of the Angel of Dreams in our lives, we have already begun the process of clearing away that, which was holding us back. We are on the trail of something wonderful and we know it now! We have caught a glimpse of the larger pattern for our lives and we desire with every fibre of our being to see even more! And the only way to see even more is to now admit to ourselves and to the Universe, that there is so much more to this physical experience that we call life.
Life is HUGE! It is magnificent! It is filled with wonder and experiences that are simply waiting for us to wake up to the reality that they exist! Life and we ourselves are so much larger, expansive and creative than we give it and ourselves credit for. This Angel knows that you are now ready to experience more of who you truly are. It knows you have now heard the song of your own Soul and once you have heard that, even for a moment, there is no turning back. And why would you want to? Once you connect with the passion, the zest, the joy for life that following your heart's desire can offer you, nothing will ever satisfy you in the same way ever again. And that is a very good thing!
As you are reading these words you may feel that you don't really know what your true heart's desire is. You may have this feeling of longing within you that says something important and vital in your life seems to be missing yet you can't quite sort out what that may be. If this is the case then it is time for you to spend some quiet time over the next several days or even weeks going within as often as you can and connecting with your Higher Self and this Angel to ask them to show you what you are truly wanting. You may have buried your heart's desire so deeply that it needs time, love and patience to be coaxed forth again. It may seem too big that you are frightened to even contemplate attempting it so you have pretended to yourself that you have forgotten it or it never existed in the first place. Yet your Soul and this Angel know better. Trust in their wisdom! They know what they are doing!
Or you know what your Heart's desire is and feel that it really isn't that important and your achieving it will not have a great impact on the world for the better. You may think that what your Heart's desire "should" be is to do something that will have a great impact on many, many people instead of appearing to serve only you. What you need to understand is that every time someone allows themselves to go for what their hearts are really longing for, it does change the world for the better. As each individual begins to feel happier and more fulfilled, their energy radiates out into all of life and the Universe. Those who are also seeking to feel greater joy and happiness suddenly find their desire for this is supported by life. Those who are seeking healing find the healing that is appropriate for them. Those who are seeking to understand their inner self more fully find that they are receiving greater insights than ever before. The world is changed for the better as one individual at a time chooses to change their own life for the better. There is no other way for we are all part of the same wonderful tapestry. What affects one affects the whole. It may be that your true heart's desire is to stay home with your beloved children instead of having to work outside the home. By reaching for this Soul level desire, you are supporting not only all others who share this with you but also all children who are seeking more love and support in their own lives, no matter where they may be on the planet. Don't you think this is good enough reason alone to reach for what you are wanting? Yet this Angel and I also pray that you do realise that your heart's desire is worthy because it is yours. And you are totally worthy of having it! Even if it didn't impact another person outside of you, it is still as worthy as a heart's desire because it belongs to you! And the entire focus of the Universe revolves round that which gives you joy!
The most important message from this Angel to you is to be very honest with yourself about what your Heart's Desire truly is. Many times people will say to themselves it is one thing because they think that is what it "ought or should" be. Usually this is to please someone else instead of you. Yet you are not responsible for another person's happiness and in truth you cannot make someone else happy who is not already willing to feel happiness within themselves. You do not have to live out someone else's dream. You do not have to sacrifice what is heartfelt to you. You are here on this earth to increase the Light and Joy of life. You can do this best by allowing your own Soul to guide you to that which makes you truly happy for then your joy and happiness will radiate out into all of life which will uplift and inspire countless others!
What to watch for with this Angel:
You find that you feel compelled to begin moving towards the manifestation of your Heart's Desire and begin to believe that it IS possible for you to manifest!
New people begin to enter your life and are extremely supportive of what you are trying to achieve. Or someone you have known casually suddenly becomes more active and helpful in your life, perhaps even leading you straight into the manifestation on your dream!
You find it easier to stay focused on what you really desire in life and begin to drop activities and things that do not contribute to the manifestation of your Heart's Desire. Instead you find it easier and easier to gravitate towards those things that do!
You find you greatly desire more ease and joy in your life. Negativity blocks the manifestation of your Good. Accepting that life can be easier and much more joyful also helps you to release negative thinking and believe that your desire is also easier to manifest.
You find that while you may not know how your Heart's Desire will manifest, you have a strong sense of faith within that as long as you continue to move towards it, the Universe will handle all the details of its manifestation for you.
You wake up in the mornings feeling excited because this day is one day closer to manifestation of your Heart's Desire. You become even more excited as you notice all the little signs and omens that the Universe is sending you telling you that it IS in process of being manifested! Some people refer to this as seeing "driftwood". Sailors know when they are approaching land because of the driftwood in the waters. So too does the Universe alert us that something we are wanting is going to manifest through synchronicity, "coincidences" and other signs that manifestation is near so keep going!
Other ways to work with this Angel:
There are many wonderful books on the market today that can help you look at manifesting your Heart's Desire in a number of ways. Sonia Choquettes Creating your Heart's Desire is excellent as is Wayne Dyer's Manifest Your Destiny. The more immersed you are each day in focusing on what it is your desire, the faster and easier it can manifest for you. Seek out other books that relate to your Heart's Desire. For example, if you want to have a child, read books that resonate for you on parenting. If you are wanting your dream home, attend open houses, read through the Real Estate ads, think about how you want your home to look and in what ways it will support your inner and outer growth in this lifetime. If any of these things however make you feel pressured or discouraged in any way, then set them aside and ask this Angel to lead you to those things that will increase your positive focus.
Spend some time each day or every few days just talking with this Angel. Talk about how good it feels to know that your desire is manifesting. Yet talk too when you are feeling down or discouraged. At those times, ask that you be lifted up into a more positive frame of mind and positive expectation. Ask to be given a sign that you are travelling the right path and this Angel will be happy to send you an abundance of signs!

Bflygal comments: Yesterday interview was an interesting one. LP asked me why has it taken me so long to find a job. The interviewer yesterday also posed the same question. I also wondered at it sometimes. XX however told me this - It is because these are not the right jobs for me yet. Hmm how about GA? What answer will GA give me? I acknowledge my industry do have openings, but I see so many people wanting to jump.. for better pay.. for better prospect.. for better working hours. And me? I'm just sitting aback and enjoying life at my own pace and hoping to fulfill what I truly desire... I know this job prospect is definitely better than the other one but what if all that matters to me is just a trip to Swiz.. and not the job prospect. Sounds short-sighted? Anyway right now the ball isn't even in my court, so why worry? I should just wait for other agents to contact me...

12 Month Overview on 19th June 2010

July 

The Hermit 

Briefly: This card as it reflects a deep thinker, someone who spends time in isolation mulling over the mysteries of life. Much time may have been spent this way, and now it is all about to change.

Full Meaning: This card shows an elderly gentleman with a robe and hood standing atop a mountain holding a lantern in his right hand and a staff in this left hand. It is the middle of the night and the background is dark, and offset by the glow - which looks like a star, emanating from the lantern. The mountain appears to be snow capped and the night seems cold and he is alone. This can signify an event happening at night or in winter. If you are not in a relationship at this point in time, it is likely that you soon will be as this can symbolise the end of being alone, you finally find what you have been looking for, which may have been right under your nose. There is also a deeper significance to this card as it reflects a deep thinker, someone who spends time in isolation mulling over the mysteries of life. Much time may have been spent this way, and now it is all about to change. Prepare yourself in whatever way is necessary. Maybe you need to revamp your image or put on some brighter clothes, rather than hiding yourself under a huge coat or cloak.

August 

King of Pentacles 

Briefly: A man whose aim is to appear wealthy, which is his ultimate goal.

Full Meaning: On this card we see a man seated on a throne.  He looks regal and sophisticated.  He holds a sceptre in his left hand and a Pentacle in his right hand.  This man is very serious about financial security and has made the accumulation of funds his main preoccupation in life.  He is very proud of his achievements and willing to show others his prized possessions. At this time in his life he is probably aged around late thirties to early forties. His work may involve him in the field of banking or the stock-market.  The main aim of his life is to be financially secure and then he can relax in his later years in luxury and comfort.  Appearances are important to him and to this end he dresses very conservatively and smartly.  Comfort is also a factor in his well made and expensive attire.  The aim is to appear wealthy, which is his ultimate goal.  Usually he rides the wave of success in mid life and is therefore able to display an air of authority and confidence in his position. Others respect him for his determination and passion to succeed. He has mastered his life successfully and is usually married with a few children.  His wife is conscious of his material desires and needs and accepts her role as the caretaker of all he owns. 

September 

Nine of Swords 

Briefly: An amount of inner tension that needs to find an outlet.

Full Meaning: When you draw this card you are experience a huge amount of inner tension that needs to find an outlet. You could feel you are in a stranglehold situation in various areas of your life and it may seem insurmountable at this time. However, this is quite a temporary state of affairs. All you really have to do is decide what it is that you really want to do about your life and current situation, and then start the wheels in motion to bring it about. This card is also about thoughts and how your thinking is strongly affecting your actions. If your thoughts are depressed, then you may find that you don't quite know just yet how to change anything. All is not lost. You just need to try to alter your thinking slightly and soon you will gain a new perspective. It is just a matter of a little time to allow the thought process to really sink in and then you can take the required action to do what it is necessary to change your life. The amount of time required may also very well correspond with the number nine, e.g. nine days or nine weeks or in the ninth month of September may somehow be relevant. Whatever you do, don't allow other people to make your decisions at this point in time, for you may be very misled and later regret whatever action you took that was not your own true wish.

October 

Ten of Swords 

Briefly: A time to recuperate after an operation or period of sickness.

Full Meaning: At first sight this card looks just awful. There is a picture of a person laying face down with ten swords stuck in his/her back with blood oozing out everywhere. This can give a very distressing impression to your client when seeing this card in their layout. However, generally the card is not as depressing as originally seemed. It can just be a time to recuperate after an operation, which could have involved the back or neck. This person may also be needing some bed rest from exhaustion or is possibly temporarily depressed due to a current situation. Time does heal all wounds. There are stars twinkling in the dark night sky in the background, giving hope and inspiration that dawn will eventually, and always does, arrive. Daylight is only hours away, if only we do not lose sight of that timely event. The person does recover, does carry on and move into the light of day with renewed vigour and enthusiasm. It just sometimes takes a little time and possibly some tender loving care. The month of October may be particularly significant in relation to some event connected to the picture on this card. All is not lost though, as the month comes and goes just like every other month and by November all is generally well again and life is back on track.

November 

Two of Swords 

Briefly: There are decisions to be made.

Full Meaning: To draw this card shows that there are decisions to be made. However all the facts may not be in at this point in time. There could be something about to crop up that you are not aware of and it may come to light later. Often something is not seen in the clear light of day or there is an unknown factor involved. Time is often of the essence and it is usually worth waiting it out for awhile to see what may arise to clarify the issue. Making a decision with all the facts is much easier than with only half the information.
Sometimes this card can indicate a problem with the eyes. Maybe an operation will be required, an injury may occur, or glasses need to be prescribed, or new glasses or some other matter involving the eyesight.
If this card is not you, or is unlikely to represent any situation directly involving you, then it is possible that it may relate to someone close to you. They may need your insight, or wisdom to help them sort out a dilemma they are in. There may be a situation where someone has to choose between two differing options and is not sure which is the most appropriate one to select.

December 

The Fool 

Briefly: Journey of unique and unknown destination. Innocent of life and will have to learn by his own mistakes. He is a wanderer, with great enthusiasm for life and for love.

Full Meaning: This card shows a picture of a young man walking towards a cliff edge, with a long rod leaning over his shoulder.  On the end of the rod there appears to be a handkerchief holding all of his worldly possessions.  Following beside him is a small white dog.  He is almost oblivious to what pitfalls may lay before him.  He is on a, a journey of discovery. He is almost like a tourist, as he looks right, left, above and below to anything that catches his eye.  He is curious and adventurous.  He wants to know everything and is keen to look, learn and discover whatever life is going to teach him.  He is innocent of life and will probably make many mistakes along the way.  He is a student of life and will have to learn by his own mistakes.  He is a wanderer, with great enthusiasm for life and for love. He is young and open-minded, with a desire to have many new and varied experiences so that he can get a taste for life and decide what it is that he really wants.  He does not yet know what the world will bring, nor what his unique destiny is, but he will soon find out.

January 

Queen of Wands 

Briefly: You may also be about to meet someone very special with whom you fall in love with and marry.

Full Meaning: The picture on this card is of a woman wearing a crown and beautiful clothes and a robe, with a wand in one hand and a lovely golden sunflower in the other. There is an abundance of green leaves around the flower and the wand. She looks serene and calm. She is obviously a woman of considerable power and influence. She also appears warm and welcoming. She has lovely blonde hair and blue eyes. She displays an air of sophistication and strength. If you are this woman then you have truly found your destiny. If this is the woman you are about to become, then rest assured your future is secure and you will find all of your needs met. You may also be about to meet someone very special with whom you fall in love with and marry. This may develop during the warmer months of the year, as in Spring or Summer. If this is someone you know, then value her friendship, for she is loyal and trustworthy. If you are a male, you may meet this woman through a friend and become involved with her in a romantic relationship. If you are a young person, this person could be your mother or a teacher, or both.

February 

King of Swords 

Briefly: Now is the time to make a clean break with what you have been doing up until now.

Full Meaning: Physically he is usually tall and relatively slim. Sometimes bearded and with piercing eyes, either blue or black. He sometimes gives an austere appearance. He may look like he doesn't smile too often. He may not age well and could tend to look rather weathered or older than he actually is, even at a young age. Mostly he would have dark hair. Conservative in attire most of the time. Serious manner in appearance and clothing.
Personality: Can be abrasive, tactless and have a harsh attitude towards life and his efforts for survival. He may have fought various battles, personal or in times of war, that have left him feeling empty and scarred. He may even have a physical scar on his face or hands. He tends to treat people abruptly, as if they annoy him just by their presence. He is serious and often secretive. Often, what he doesn't say, says it all. His look can condemn. He likes to be in charge and in control of his life and his environment. He is generally in business suits or a uniform of some type. He appreciates the discipline of keeping up appearances and likes his boots polished very well. He may actually collect old relics or swords as a hobby and enjoy cleaning and polishing them and putting them on display in his home. He is generally tidy by nature, methodical and despising clutter and useless items. He believes that life is meant to involve hard work and he would not like to be unemployed at any time, as he likes the structures of time and discipline in his well-ordered life. He would appreciate a good steak. He dislikes waste and frivolity.
He has the gift of intelligence, commonsense and foresight. He likes to have well-defined plans and goals. He is a stickler for rules and doing his duty. He is a born leader. He appreciates time. He is capable of being the instructor.
Occupations suited to him would be the head of a company or large organisation. Also he would make a great surgeon, doctor, police officer, dentist or anything that involves the use of sharp items or weapons. He would make a good soldier, warrior, fighter or leader of a revolution.
His future lies in being more open to others if he is to feel fulfilled at the end of his life. He could fall in love again, or renew his vows with his wife if already married. He is faithful though observant of the beauty of women. He especially admires women of grace and good manners. He is as vulnerable as the next man, but rarely shows it. He will have a relationship if she shows enough direct interest in him.
Querent's card. If this is you, now is the time to make a clean break with what you have been doing up until now. Sever the past and start anew. You can heed the challenge. You are brave and can face anything the future holds. Just say yes!
If you are not the querent and this card appears, I suggest that you allow this person to be themselves. Do not stand in this man's way, he will rollercoaster over you without even noticing you were stood there in the first place. He can be the most sincerest friend, only after you have proven your friendship to him, never before.

March 

Six of Wands 

Briefly: You are about to be recognised or honoured in some way for your talents and achievements.

Full Meaning: This is a victory card, so if you draw this in your reading you are about to be recognised or honoured in some way for your talents and achievements. People will look to your for inspiration and possibly leadership. You may also be considering doing some travelling or certainly exploring further options as they arise, rather than let them slip through your fingers. You could be given the directorship of a company or other exciting challenge to meet. You will be compensated for your talents in such a way that there is now no going back to your old defeatist ways.

April 

Strength 

Briefly: It is possible that someone born under the sign of Leo is of some importance to you right now. our strength and fortitude are about to be acknowledged and tested

Full Meaning: Initially the picture on this card depicts a woman holding open the mouth of a lion, which shows both her courage and her desire to tame the wild beast. It is possible that someone born under the sign of Leo is of some importance to you right now. If you are the Leo, then now is you time to shine and let the world know what you can do. Your efforts will receive recognition now and if this in any way involves being in the public eye, the spotlight is about to seek you out and make you look like a beacon in the night. Your strength and fortitude are about to be acknowledged and tested. If you withstand the demands made on your resilience and energy levels, you will come through this time with flying colours.

May 

The Sun 

Briefly: There is also the possibility, for those who desire a child, that a pregnancy is imminent. Any new business venture also has the signs of success written on it, so proceed with confidence that all will be well.

Full Meaning: This card depicts the Sun and in the front of this is a child on a horse - note the same red feather that appears on the fools hat. The childs arms are open and a brilliant red flag waves in the air. There are sunflowers on the card, some greenery and a wall in the background.

This card is generally a big "YES!" card, confirmation that what you seek is on its way.

Often this card symbolises Summer or is associated with the sign of Leo. Perhaps an important event will occur around your own Summer month or during the one month time span of Leo which is from July 23 up to August 22. For some this can mean a very special relationship on the horizon, and one that may very well lead to marriage, this will be a successful union and bring much happiness into both people's lives. There is also the possibility, for those who desire a child, that a pregnancy is imminent. Any new business venture also has the signs of success written on it, so proceed with confidence that all will be well. Also a distinct possibility is a trip to a warm location in the near future.

June 

Ace of Pentacles 

Briefly: You will be surprised to learn that one of your greatest financial wishes is about to come true.

Full Meaning: This card shows a large pentacle in the middle which is symbolic of material wealth and abundance. If you should receive this card in your layout, and it is representative of a future event, then you will be surprised to learn that one of your greatest financial wishes is about to come true. This can bring financial stability to those who have never had it before in their life.

Creative Process Reading on 18th June 2010

Express Creative Process Reading

Creative Force 

The Power behind the force; what do I need to nurture my process and turn my dreams into reality.

Seven of Swords 

Briefly: A home move.

Full Meaning: Quite often this card signifies a home move. There is a restlessness that gives the feeling of wanting to move on. If it is not a house move, it could be a new relationship, or one that is a significant relationship, such as your first one, or it has been a long time between relationships, or one that proves important in the long run, such as one leading to marriage. However a small word of caution, find out all you can about this new person, for there could be something secretive about him/her.
This can also mean a significant happening or event at night, having to rush off somewhere, to someone's aid perhaps, someone in hospital and/or a time to make quick decisions and act in a hurry, or alternatively you may act in haste during the night.
This card has also been known to indicate a robbery. It could be a thief in your home, or any other place where you keep valuables, such as a car or an office.
Overall, your life now has the potential to alter in some significant way. You could cut ties with your past, your family or friends and go off on your own path. These changes may be irrevocable and can close the door on your old life to make way for a total transition into a new way of living. Just be sure this is exactly what you want to do. You need to be firm and strong in your decision making now and in the near future.

Ethereal Essence 

Essence of the force; what choices do I need to make in order to begin this journey.

Two of Swords 

Briefly: There are decisions to be made.

Full Meaning: To draw this card shows that there are decisions to be made. However all the facts may not be in at this point in time. There could be something about to crop up that you are not aware of and it may come to light later. Often something is not seen in the clear light of day or there is an unknown factor involved. Time is often of the essence and it is usually worth waiting it out for awhile to see what may arise to clarify the issue. Making a decision with all the facts is much easier than with only half the information.
Sometimes this card can indicate a problem with the eyes. Maybe an operation will be required, an injury may occur, or glasses need to be prescribed, or new glasses or some other matter involving the eyesight.
If this card is not you, or is unlikely to represent any situation directly involving you, then it is possible that it may relate to someone close to you. They may need your insight, or wisdom to help them sort out a dilemma they are in. There may be a situation where someone has to choose between two differing options and is not sure which is the most appropriate one to select.

Emotion 

Feelings and senses associated with the process. What will assist and guide me during this time.

Eight of Wands 

Briefly: A new love is coming into your life and very swiftly at that.

Full Meaning: This card has a picture of eight wands running right across it. For some this can mean that a new love is coming into your life and very swiftly at that. It brings things quickly into focus and gives you the opportunity to seize a brilliant opportunity or improve your life in some way. You could also be about to move to a more tranquil setting in either your home life or the location or your work. A river or other picturesque scene may be part of your new environment, or you may meet someone special in just such a location. If you are planning a pregnancy, now may be your most fertile time. The energy of the season of Spring may make you feel inspired to be especially creative.

Reflection 

Vision and logic of the creative process. What lessons and guides should I listen for.

Queen of Wands 

Briefly: You may also be about to meet someone very special with whom you fall in love with and marry.

Full Meaning: The picture on this card is of a woman wearing a crown and beautiful clothes and a robe, with a wand in one hand and a lovely golden sunflower in the other. There is an abundance of green leaves around the flower and the wand. She looks serene and calm. She is obviously a woman of considerable power and influence. She also appears warm and welcoming. She has lovely blonde hair and blue eyes. She displays an air of sophistication and strength. If you are this woman then you have truly found your destiny. If this is the woman you are about to become, then rest assured your future is secure and you will find all of your needs met. You may also be about to meet someone very special with whom you fall in love with and marry. This may develop during the warmer months of the year, as in Spring or Summer. If this is someone you know, then value her friendship, for she is loyal and trustworthy. If you are a male, you may meet this woman through a friend and become involved with her in a romantic relationship. If you are a young person, this person could be your mother or a teacher, or both.

Creation 

Completion, the density or finished manifestation. The outcome based on the current path.

Death/Rebirth 

Briefly: The slate will be wiped clean for a fresh start. There will be none of the old left, so a whole new approach needs to be established before true renewal can take place. Sometimes when we draw this card, major events seems to unfold around us that challenge our thinking and our direction in life.

Full Meaning: This shows a grim reaper and a white rose at the same time. The Sun is setting in the background of the card, indicating the end of daylight hours. This is the card of endings, renewal and transformation of the highest order. The slate will be wiped clean for a fresh start. There will be none of the old left, so a whole new approach needs to be established before true renewal can take place. Sometimes when we draw this card, major events seems to unfold around us that challenge our thinking and our direction in life. Sometimes an unpleasant event shows us the way to a new path. This may seem traumatic at the time, but it is also saying that the old ways are no longer valid, or of value in your new life. It is time to cast aside whatever is hindering your progress in life and make a whole new start. Turn the leaf, sow new seeds, wear new clothes, change your appearance, move house, leave that boring job and get out there and dance. Life can end at any moment for any of us, so it is how wisely we spend our time here that really matters. You can still be serious about some aspects of your life, but leave plenty of room open for fun and for spontaneity. When we are on our death-bed, we will wish we had kicked up our heels more often, been more carefree, eaten more ice-cream, danced longer, sang out loud and showed others how much we love them. Don't wait till then, do it now, while you are alive and still kicking.

Bflygal comments:
I lost the reading I did yesterday because my pc restarted again.. *exasperated tone* and the page reloaded. What I do remember is I must be sure what I want, and I must not wish wrongly, and my wish will come true. So I thought carefully and wish that I can have a job with my expected pay so that I can sponsor a second child. I have already shelved the plan for half a year because of the unexpected circumstance that befell against me. And I have to admit I am getting impatient and kept asking myself yesterday, did I fail the latest interview else why haven't they contacted me. Sometimes I feel if you impressed a person sufficiently, you will be contacted immediately.. right? So I'm surprised to received a call from my another favourite agent on a new opportunity. The job title sounds nicer in this new opportunity though I think I left my heart in Swiz still... but .. but.. let's not think too much because .. it does seem I have not been impressing much interviewers and I'm doubting my own capability already...

Telesales

Sales is not my cup of tea. But the first time I tried it, I was just being curious. The second time, I did not know how to reject. And thus I'm in such a situation where I get abused daily, and trust me, I think direct sales is better. Maybe it is because these people can do a detour if they don't want you to approach them. But in telesales, you have already invaded their privacy space by calling them.

Of course I will think back situations where I am the recipient. And thus, I never once am pushy to these people. It is always the typical "Hi, I'm from XX representing YY and YY would like to offer you product ZZ". What I expect from these recipients would be just a simple "No thank you" or "Yes please go on". And I never asked much if you indicated you are not interested though I might probe if you did reply me you did not qualify to understand why you were rejected (and it did meant you once tried it).

So I don't expect to get nasty remarks... do I? Maybe the invent of handphone is also a necessary evil. It has in the first place become a tool used for people to constantly be reached. And thus when strangers could reach you too, you get the feeling that you had been intruded. Of course past experience do play a part too. I once met a caller who tried to use humour miserably on me. While I understand the boredom of repeating the lines 300 times a day NOW, but as a recipient, I cannot understand the funny angle. And thus as I had always been taught, humour can only be used subjectively.

Anyway hoping to get out of it soon before I start getting nightmares. I haven't been sleeping much anyway.

p/s: I know I wrote wrongly but too lazy to scan the drawing and redo the effects..
haha.. it should be 脱离苦海. Guess I was too miserable to be hardworking to check my Chinese then.

Close door or Open Door

That day, when I waited one day and did not hear from them, I was upset. Till another agent called for another opportunity and relighted the hope. And this thought came into mind.

But at this point of writing (which is a week later after I drew the picture), I only have a double whammy feeling because both said the same thing when they told the agent experience is not an important factor. But chose someone who is more experienced even though the personality is not as great as mine. My friend said this is a catch 22 situation. Whatever this means, I only know one thing, I wish I have the experience and a lousy personality. Because experience must be gained but personality can be changed on my part. And at this stage, nobody is giving me any chance to gain experience.

Rainy Dumpling Day

I had woken up with an overcast sky and thought it was still in the early morning, except it was 8am already. It was supposedly an important day for me. Waited 2 months, had to be screened twice by my agent and her boss, before I was presented to their client. And I stopped all job search for this job, which is funny because when I first heard it, I wanted to reject it.

Except this is the only company that has a chance of bringing me back to Swiss.. my most beloved country... and I really wanted to go back Swiss.. no correction, I wanted to work there. It was my thoughts when I stepped in Interlaken Ost in 2004. That I wanted to work there, even if it is just for a short stint. I remember I was envious of a cousin then who had worked there briefly. Later on, I had another cousin in Nestle and went Swiss twice for a few months. And I wondered, when is my chance? I am still wondering by the way. *cross fingers*

So today is an important day for me. Just as it is an important day for Qu Yuan millions years ago. And so rain is expected because mum said it always rained during dumpling day. I silently hoped it will stopped though because I do not want to be drenched.

But the rain continued and showed no signs of stopping even in the afternoon. And so I carefully made my way to the MRT and as usual, checked FB, emails via my phone. That is then I realised everybody was posting something in FB - Orchard River... Flooding in Orchard. I thought was it yesterday news? And opened my chat to find my friend to ask her as she had smsed me yesterday to see if I was in Orchard.. and she said it wasn't raining yesterday at all. Another chat with a fellow FB who posted the youtube video confirmed the horror to me - that Orchard is flooding... today. And I'm not in boots. (Ok obviously I will never be in boots in SG anyway and I don't possess a pair hahaha.) Further google search tells me the flooding is at Scotts Road, where I am alighting. Geez, what great news. I have no choice but to cross my fingers and hope I will still be sufficiently presentable to meet the interviewer.

So I alighted at Orchard and came out of the station. And it does look pretty alright. Roads may be wet but vehicles were on the move. I thought the situation had return to normalcy. Then I passed by Lucky Plaza and saw all the basement stores partially closed with passer-bys stopping to see what they do.. and of course taking photos. I took only one photo though and is after the interview. Too depressing to take more. Shops with clothes, books, accessories are not spared. I guess their whole day was spent fishing their products, packing into bags and mopping the stores.

But my greatest sympathy goes to these car owners. At that time I did not know the extent of the water level in the carpark though from the interviewer office, I saw a crowd had gathered. And from a conversation with one of the employee, I found out that his car was swimming. Swimming, sounds too incredulous that I had to repeat "Really?" After the interview, I went to join the crowd and realised it has been half a day and they were still trying to drain the water. And dad told me all these vehicles probably had to be scrapped. (More rubbish created sigh.) And some of the cars probably were branded or new. What a pity!

Later I met a HK friend working there and she told me the flood was in the morning and it receeded in an hour's time. Oh and she shared with me some photos, one of them being this flooded bus-stop

Credits: Mandy

In the end, Orchard River became a bigger event than the world cup tonight (my interviewer was saying he will first check about Orchard River then World Cup) and more memorable than my interview experience... or dumpling experience... It even became my starting topic to the interviewer who did not know this is a rare sight. Well, neither Mandy nor me (being local) expected such a sight in Orchard either. As for the reasons for the occurrence, as usual, it is still under investigation. Oh and dad said I should carry my camera out daily haha. I admit my camera phone is CMI but at least the shot looks decent in thumbnail version.

我要搭计程车

本想做件好事，但又错失机会。。。只能说“下一次吧！”
而最近老是下雨，天气又变了。。。

haha, another wrong chinese word because I was lazy to find the correct word for taxi though when I wrote it that day, I knew it was wrong..
it should be 的士 or 计程车

Related posts:
I forgot ARK
Evan Almighty

I forgot ARK

It has been quite some time since I last drawn. Pulled out the sketch book I had planned to use for Grasstales then.... Still stuck at the introductory - Grasstales Introduction (in other words, the project has been scrapped given my theory). Anyway I'm disillusioned lately so let me start doddling to perk my mood.

First topic to doodle is...

I had forgotten the supposedly engraved ARK... check old post - Evan Almighty
Staring at the extended family, I wondered why was I so hesistant to help? Because my photography skills suck? Haha. That could be a good reason. But I decided the next time, I will offer my help.

遗失了一只猫

看着这碗海底椰突然我想到这本几米《遗失了一只猫》。。。

可能因为有共鸣感。。

和他分手的那天傍晚，
她的猫咪不见了。

她在住家附近到处寻找，
不停呼喊它的名字，
直到天色渐渐变亮。


她疲惫地回到家，
倒在沙发上昏昏睡去，
做了一个奇怪的梦。


梦中的怪兽开口说：
“你根本就不爱你自己，所以我也不再爱你了。”
它瞪大眼睛望着她，露出神秘的表情，
跳进一片绿色的森林，消失无踪。

原来当你不爱自己了，猫咪也就不爱你了。。
当爱失去了，猫咪也会遗失了。。。
不管你这么拼命的找，
我想猫咪不肯能在回来你的身边，
因为，猫咪是你跟他爱的结晶。

她从梦中惊醒，
亮灿灿的阳光照进屋内，
雪白的床单上，留下三枚猫的脚印......


昨夜的梦还未醒，
今夜的梦又来袭，
真的假的，她也分不清。
星期天的早晨，
有人在歌唱，
她醒来又再睡去。


她的猫，就在她半梦半醒中，
离家出走了......


她在他的留言电话里留言：
“我们的猫......”


然后她就忍不住哭了。


她的头发开始分叉，
浴室开始漏水，
钥匙突然不见了。


没人爱她，她也不爱她自己。
她不知道到底发生了什么事。


她感到沮丧，
世界仿佛铺上了一层灰，
初夏的清晨，
转眼变成严冬的黄昏。


她一定是哪里做错了，
不该在他最疲惫的时候，
连声追问他爱不爱她。


不该在清晨说抱歉，
黄昏时又犯错......


夜半醒来，
她克制不住地低声哀号，
猫咪一定是被她吓坏了，
才会离家出走。


她紧握着方向盘在车海中流浪，
却不知该开往何方？
她思念她的猫，也思念他，泪静静淌下。
她一路哭到加油站，
加油的小弟笑笑说：
“别难过了，油箱加满后，
就可以开车到山上看星星了。”

她想逃离这个城市，却无处可去。


一个人怎么可能
一生只做同样一件事，
在同一间房间，睡同一张床，
看同样的街景。
度过同样的春夏秋冬。


怎么可能
只对一个主人忠心，
痴恋同一个人......


她不断地逃走，却又不断地感到厌烦......

没有猫咪可以拥抱，
什么都提不起劲来......


她懒得起窗梳洗，
懒得张罗餐点，
懒得化装修眉，
懒得出门。


懒得跟朋友联络，
懒得讲话，
懒得下判断做决定，
懒得想到未来甚至明天。


懒得怨懒得爱，
懒得去面对这世界。


一切都来不及了，
来不及刷牙洗脸，
来不及吃早餐，
来不及问猫咪，为何离开她。


忘记缴税单，
忘记提款卡的密码，
忘记妈妈的生日。


玫瑰即将枯萎，
垃圾开始发臭。
妈妈在电话留言里温柔地问，
“这个礼拜天要回家吃饭吗？”

她想将不爱的东西从窗口丢弃。
枯萎的花，过期的维他命，
过时的戒指，
变色的友谊，失宠的回忆，
模糊的爱情......

还有她自己。

她无端地感到害怕，
害怕在睡梦中世界突然崩塌，
害怕醒来时牙齿全部掉光，
害怕车子在高速公路上无故起火，
害怕她爱的人从来没有爱过她，
害怕青春消逝，一事无成地老去。
害怕医生说，没错没错，
你真的患有严重的恐慌症。


而她最害怕的是，
她的猫咪永远找不回来了......

他们说，别怕别怕，
天使正在对你微笑。
但她为什么看不见呢？


她若是贪婪，嫉妒，猜疑，
天使真的能够谅解吗？
她若是心虚，寂寞，恐慌，
天使真的会感到同情吗？


她在严寒的城市中，
找寻天使的温柔。


她拿出猫咪的相片，制作寻猫的海报。


她将海报
贴在巷口的早餐店里，
贴在小学校门旁的树上，
贴在路边的电线杆上，
贴在兽医院的墙上，
贴在宠物店的玻璃橱窗外，
贴在社区的布告栏......


她还偷偷在他的信箱里塞了一张。


她走向熟悉的街道，
在他们过去约会的第三根路灯下等他，
怔怔望着不断穿越马路的人群，
直到夜幕落下。


她买了一瓶清酒，
穿过杜鹃盛开的公园，在月下独酌。


一只黄猫躲在墙角，防备地望着她。
这不是她的猫，
她的猫咪早已习惯她的悲伤。


她想象自己出门远游，
却不幸遇到了大风雪。
想象自己迷了路，
地图却被狂风吹上天空。
想象一个甜蜜的梦境，
但梦里的郁金香却全都枯萎了。
想象猫咪回家了，
但门却打不开。


猫咪不见了，没下雪都觉得冷。


朋友问她要不要再养一只猫，
她坚定地摇摇头。


她就是要找回她失去的猫，
一样的颜色，一样的斑纹，一样的灵魂。


朋友问她要不要再认识一位新朋友，
她低头不语......


渐渐地，她习惯放慢脚步，
孤独地在城市里寻找一只猫。


她觉得自己就象是一名落魄的侦探，
正在调查一件毫无头绪的失踪案......


现在，
她知道哪家的画眉鸟会在黎明时轻声歌唱，
哪一株木棉树会先绽放出浓艳的花朵，
哪只老流浪狗会循秘密通道潜入花园......

现在......

她也想要去尝试所有以前不敢做的事情。

沿着地铁轨道缓缓漫步。
爬上天桥护栏表演特技。
坐在五十九层楼高的窗沿看白云翻飞。
潜入封闭断裂的老吊桥疯狂跳舞。
在暴雨来袭的黄昏赶到海堤的顶点观浪。


想象总是可以带着她任意穿越时空。
她在余震不断的夜晚搭电梯玩游戏；
在车祸的现场捡拾当事人散落的零钱；
在浓烟弥漫的大火中抢救屋主丢弃的老照片；
把手探进笼子去感觉响尾蛇的温度；
突然成为抢匪的人质，开始随着他亡命天涯......

她常常陷在松软的沙发里羡慕她的猫咪，
她的猫咪正在实践她的幻想。


邻居的小男孩告诉她，看见她的猫在公元池塘边散步。
宠物店的小姐打电话来，说有客人昨天遇到了一只很会撒娇的蓝点点小猫。
图书馆里的老先生表示，她的猫咪被一个男孩抱走了......


大雨过后，
窗台边那株枯死的玫瑰，
奇迹似的冒出了鲜嫩的新芽。


她想起那件遗忘许久
压在衣柜底层的花长裙。


安静的午后，
她细心地修改它......


星期天早晨，城市仍在昏睡，
太阳一如往昔地早早升起。


她在半梦半醒间，
听到门外响起熟悉的脚步声，
和一声她思念已久的呼唤：


喵......

一碗海底椰，
一只遗失的猫咪，
一段美好的回忆，
能否重温？

Images source: http://ahys.ahxf.gov.cn/p_bbs/showbbs.asp?bd=2&id=11546&totable=1
Story Source: http://www.kanunu.org /article/jimmy2/others/2007/808.html

p/s: 没想到那碗海底椰在缩图版本即让使朋友以为是一碗装着恐怖手指食物，哈哈！我想它可以当万圣节的恐怖菜单。

Afterthoughts of Eat and Pray

Finally finished Eat, Pray and Love by Elizabeth Gilbert within 2 days...

To find the balance you want, this is what you must become. You must keep your feet grounded so firmly on the earth that it is like you have four legs, instead of two. That way you can stay in the world. But you must stop looking at the world through your head. You must look through your heart, instead. That way, you will know God.

Bflygal's comments: And thus this is the image I conjured. That is probably why I like reading, because I conjure my own images. And now that I have finished the book, I can watch the movie and see how others conjure the image haha.

The great Sufi poet and philosopher Rumi, once advised his students to write down the 3 things they most wanted in life. If any item on the list clashes with any other item, Rumi warned, you are destined for unhappiness. Better to live a life of single-pointed focus, he taught. But what about the benefits of living harmoniously amid extremes? What if you would somehow create an expansive enough life that you could synchronise seemingly incongrous opposites into a worldview that excludes nothing.

Bflygal's comments: And the author wanted 3 things... Eat, pray and love. But how do one immerse in the dual glories of a human life - worldly enjoyment and divine transcendence? Once again, an image popped into my mind... Ji Gong - the Living Buddha. The image of him savouring wine and meat totally undefines a traditional monk.

Kalos kai agathos (Greeks) - the singular balance of the good and the beautiful.
Dolce vita - the sweet life
Bel far niente - the beauty of doing nothing
It is a cherished Italian ideal. And you don't need to be rich in order to experience this either.
L'arte d'arrangiarsi - the art of making something out of nothing.
Anyone with a talent for happiness can do this, not only the rich.
It may seems like self-indulgence but Italians do not see it that way.

Bflygal's comments: my friend spent a few months in Japan before heading to UK for studies. And I remember how I strongly encouraged her to do so too. On hindsight, she probably could write a book on it too haha. Another friend of mine is now happily enjoying life in UK on a work-holiday visa. (Sigh I should have applied with her that time if I know what fate befalls on me.. but then on second thoughts... I will come to that later.. ) As for myself, having played for the past 5 months in Singapore, I guess I can still continue playing. Anyway I think I am destined to go Italy with my parents (that's the second thoughts), just felt so. After that, I hope that my heart will take control and lead me on the right path.

So be lonely Liz. Learn your way around loneliness. Make a map of it. Sit with it, for once in your life. Welcome to the human existence. But never again use another person's body and emotions as a scratching post for your own unfulfilled yearnings.

Romans not giving her second looks. When
she was 19, she was constantly harassed. While it is certainly nice of course, to not get pawed by a disgusting stranger on the bus, one does have femine pride, and one must wonder, what has changed here? Is it me? Or is it them?
Bflygal's comments: Back from Italy and this post is still in draft mode haha. Anyway I wasn't harassed either but then, I'm not carino enough so that explains.

Pizzeria da Michele in Naples has Italy's best pizza, and Italy has the best pizza in the world. Thus to infer, Pizzeria da Michele has the world's best pizza.
Bflygal's comments: pity I did not have a chance to visit.

Piazza della Republica - fountain of bodacious naked nymphs
Bflygal's comments: I might have visited the place but did not find the said fountains.

I still can't say whether I will ever want children. I was so astonished to find that I did not want them at thity, the remembrance of that surprise cautions me against placing any bets on how I will feel at forty. I can only say how I feel now - grateful to be on my own.

Virginia Woolf wrote
Across the broad continent of a woman's life falls the shadow of a sword. On one side of that sword, she said, there lies convention and tradition, and order where 'all is correct.'

But on the other side of that sword, if you are crazy enough to cross it and choose a life that does not follow convention, 'all is confusion'. Nothing follows a regular course. Her argument was that crossing of the shadow of that sword may bring a far more interesting existence to a woman,but you can bet it will also be more perilous.
Bflygal's comments: and I admit I want to cross the sword...

It is better to live your destiny imperfectly than to live an imitation of somebody else's life with perfection.
- Bhagauad Gita, that ancient Indian yoga teacher

Wary of the danger that if I drift around this world randomly for too long, I may someday become the Family Flaker.

Do you believe that every city has a single word that defines it, that identifies most people who live there. If you could read people's thoughts as they were passing you on the streets of any given place, you would discover that most of them are thinking the same thought. And if your personal word does not match the city, then you don't really belong there.
Rome: sex
Vatican: power
NYC: achieve
LA: succeed
Stockholm: conform
Naples: fight

What is the autho's personal word?
Family,
Depression
Seek? Or hide?
In Italy, it had been pleasure.

Anyway, I picked up some Italian words from the book...
HAttraversiamo - let's cross the street. A word the author seems to fell in love. Probably the journey of crossing appeals to her.

Parla come magni - speak the way you eat. In other words keep your language simple and direct.

Sei una trottola
You are a spinning top

Carina: cute
Grazie mille: thousands thanks

Goethe says without seeing Sicily, one cannot get a clear idea of what Italy is.
Bflygal's comments: I must schedule a second visit to Italy - Sicily to see what Italy is then haha. Maybe a Greece-Sicily.

No town can live peacefully, whatever its laws, when citizens do nothin but feast and drink and tire themselves out in the cares of love.- Plato

Of course one cannot live life like this forever. To learn how to speak a language for no higher purpose than it pleases your ear to hear it. To nap in a garden, in a path of sunlight, in the middle of the day, right next to your favourite fountain, and then do it again the next day. Real life and wars and mortality will interfere eventually.
Bflygal's comments: Sadly. I would love to exchange anything for the freedom I have now to last eternally... No wonder 自由价更高.

Next scene shifted to Pray - Yoga - India.

Om
Na
Mah
Shi
Va
Ya
Om Namah Shivaya
I honour the divinity that resides within me.

Yoga in sanskirt can be translated as union between:
Mind and body
Individual and her God
Our thoughts and the source of our thoughts.

Yoga can means trying to find God through mediation, through scholarly study, through the practice of silence.

Imbalance: Taoist
Ignorance: Buddahism
Islam blames our misery on rebellion against God
Juedo-Christian attributes all our sufferings to original sin
Freudians say that unhappiness is the inevitable result of the cllash between our natural drives and civilixation's needs.

The yogis, however, say that human discontenment is a simple case of mistaken identity. We're miserable because we think we are mere individuals, alone with our fears and flaws and resentments and mortality we wrongly believe that our limited little egos constitute our whole entire nature. We have failed to recognise our deeper divine caracter. We don't realise that somewhere within us all, there exists a supreme self who is eternally at peace. That Supreme self is our true identity, universal and divine. Before you realise this truth, say the Yogis, you'll always be in despair, a notion nicely expressed in this exasperated line from the Greek stoic philioopher Epictetus: You bear God within you, poor wretch, and know it not.

Yoga is the effort to experience one's divinity personally and then to hold on to that experience forever. Yoga is about self-mastery and the dedicated effort to haul your attention away from your endless brooding over the past and your non-stop worrying about the future so that you can seek, instead, a place of eternal presence from which you may regard yoursel and your surrounding with poise. Only from that point of even-mindedness will the true nature of the world (and yourself) be revealed to you.
Bflygal's comments: I haven't been doing yoga for years since I left my 1st perm job...

Our whole business therefore in this life, write Saint Augustine rather logically, is to restore to health the eye of the heart whereby God may be seen.

Guru - 2 sanskirt syllables
1) darkness
2) light
Out of darkness into light

The resting place of the mind is the heart. The only thing the mind hears all day is clanging bells and noise and argument, and all it wants iis quietness. The only place the mind will ever find peace is inside the silence of the heart. That's where you need to go.

A true soulmate is a mirror, the person who shows you everyting that's holding you back, the person who brings you to your own attention so you can shape your life. A true soul mate is probably the most important person you'll ever meet, because they tear down your wall and smack you awake. But to live with a soul mate forever? Nah. Too painful. Soul mate, they come into your life just to reveal another layer of yourself to you and then they leave.
Bflygal's comments: and then.. They leave...

Look for God,
Like a man with his head on fire,
Looking for water.

If something is rubbing so hard against you, you can be sure it is working on you. This is what the Gurugita does. It burns away the ego, turns you into pure ash.

If faith is rational, it wouldn't be by definition - faith. Faith is belief in what you cannot see or prove or touch. Faith is walking face first and full speed into the dark. If we truly know all the answers in advance, as to the meaning of life and the nature of God and the destiny of our souls, our belief would not be a leap of faith and it would not be a courageous act of humanity; it would just be a prudent insurance policy.

Italian joke:
Poor man who goes to church everyday and prays before the statue of a great saint, begging
Dear saint, please, please, please give me the grace to win the lottery. This lament goes on for months. Finally the ecasperated statue comes to life, look down at the begging man and says in weary disguise,
My son, please, please, please buy a ticket.
Bflygal comments: Purely for humour. No offense intended. And beneath the humour lies a saying I strongly advocate - "God helps those who help themselves."

Prayer is a relationship; half the job is mine. If I want transformation but cannot even be bothered to articulate what, exactly, I'm aiming for, how will it ever occur? Half of the benefit of prayer is in the asking itself, in the offering of a clearly posed and well considered intention.

God dwells within you, as you.

We all seem to get these ideas that, in order to be sacred, we have to make sure some massive, dramatic change of character, that we hear to renounce our individuality.

Antenvasin: one who lives at the border. In between. Lived in sight of both worlds, but he looked towards the unknown. And he was a scholar.
Bflygal's comments: this is the author's personal word and I quite like this word.


The hub of calmness - that's your heart. That's where God lives within you, so stop looking for answers in the world. Just keep walking back to that center and you will always find peace.

This is a good sign, having a broken heart. It means we have tried for something.

Karma: recycle back to the earth again in another form in order to resolve whatever relationships or mistakes you left uncompleted the last time. When you finally achieve perfection, you graduate out of the cycle entirely and melt into The Void.
Bflygal's comments: I strongly believe in this theory.

7 places up to Heaven - 7 happy places
7 places down to Hell - 7 sad places
Universe is a circle. Go up, go down, is the same at the end. If it is same in the end, it is better to be happy on the journey.
Bflygal's comments: haha a good one. Which is why I always say I'm heading towards the path of heaven :)
And you do realise I did not comment much on Love. I don't deny that Love is an absolute necessity in the world because "Make Love not War". But either I do not possess much interest in the Love that the author talks about or, like some reviews mentioned, the author did have a weak ending towards the last section. However I believed I learnt lots from her for the first two-thirds of the book and thus it has been a pleasure to read the book. Now to wait for the movie... and Julia Roberts *anticipation in glee*.

p/s: In between my Italiano posts.. decided to post this up due to my latest artwork. If I'm hardworking, I hope to change my artwork monthly. A big IF...