Parting note...

It's simple. I just can't keep up!

And now that I'm settled in Asia and so close to family, it almost doesn't make sense to maintain a blog anymore. Thanks for following the Bumblebeegrad :)

Bad mojo

Go away.

I know it's self-indulgent to rant about bad luck and all, but I do feel like today was possibly one of the worst I've had in awhile. In the grand scheme of things, I'm very aware that everything that happened really isn't that big a deal. But it still sucked ass.

First, my day started with a pleasant ride on the MRT. Despite how we were packed like sardines, close enough to intimately kiss our neighbors, a fellow passenger had the nerve to let one go. I swear this person must've been standing right in front of me because the stench was INTENSE! So much so that I literally choked. No kidding.

I choked.

And when I stopped at the dry cleaners to pick up my favorite silk scarf, they handed it back to me without its accompanying pouch. What??! How is that possible? I had left the scarf with you along with its protective pouch so it wouldn't snag. Why would you misplace or toss out something like that? One would think that paying $8 to dry clean a single scarf wouldn't render that kind of mistake. Well, I was wrong.

Here's the clincher. Hands down, winner of the day.

I timed my journey to the acupuncturist, arrived at the building just before the clouds decided to weep, breathed a sigh of relief only to find out quickly that Google Maps recorded the old (and therefore wrong) address. In the middle of nowhere, I stood surrounded by pouring rain and HDB flats, cursing in my head.

After many phonecalls to the acupuncturist discussing the best route, we decided it was best that I stayed where I was until the rain subsided. So I did. There I continued to stand for another 45 whole mins, during which I called the bf to swear at everything and anything possible including God for the rain. Not my finest moment in 27 years, I must admit. And I'm deeply sorry, especially to the bf who had to endure every bit of it. You're a champ hon.

The college kid standing next to me overheard the whole conversation and looked away when I stared back with eyes that may as well have been darts. Quietly, we stood there watching the rain. When I got a call from the acupuncturist saying they were closing and that I should cancel, I decided to (as they say) fuck it and braved the rain.

It was a painful decision. And my 300 euro suede shoes along with their silk lining will never recover from the mean muddy puddles. Though I can't help but feel like it was the right one, because things got better after. On the way to the place, with raindrops dripping down my chin, I felt like a scene from Survivor the same college kid's hand on my shoulder as he offered to hold my hand down a slippery hill. That, was a moment of kindness worthy of a Reader's Digest column (silver-lining #1. Yes!).

When I arrived at the acupuncturist, I was welcomed by a clean lofty seating area, friendly staff and warm towels to dry myself with. This was followed by a productive conversation with the doctor and a 30 min session with needles and Chinese meds. A real adventure (silver-lining #2. Woohoo!).

After the appointment, I stepped out into the streets and to clear skies. On the way to the train station, a free shuttle bus stopped right in front of me (silver-lining #3) and I hopped on.

Just when I got home tonight, I found a new t-shirt I've worn only once with tie-dye patches around the collar. Presumably caused by fading in the sun. Really? This day can only get better. This day can only get better. This day can only get better.

I'm gonna hit the sack before something falls on my head.

Thank God for great company and chocolate cake. I'm grateful to have friends like you

More macaron action

In my jetlagged state this morning, at precisely 3AM, I uploaded the following photos on Facebook. I'm really digging the bright colors.

What do you think?





More on Facebook>

Now it's off to pilates!

So I kinda lied about traveling

As I sit in our living room sorting photos and planning the upcoming long weekends, I realize I should never speak too soon. Chances are, I will be using my passport quite a bit these next few months. Oh well.

Despite the excessive need to flee the country, I'm pretty excited to be diving back into my daily routine of taking the train to work, sipping morning coffee and attempting evening jogs. Imagine that!

Before I do, I'd like to tell you about the most amazing week I had. I was away in San Francisco for a little while catching up with old friends. This was followed by a few awesome days at our Global Sales Conference in Burlingame. Each day I'm at this company, I can't help but feel inspired and extremely grateful.

My previous MD, now a good friend, and I were just reminiscing how I had once expressed during an interview, my desire to work on a subject I could relate to. Back then I had thought, I just need something that I care about and would be happy immersing in. Something I'd want to live and breathe.

And here I am, living and breathing all of this. Good times.

Job aside, there are lotsa other things that make me happy. Meyer lemon meringue tart for one. This one from Boulette's Larder is the best. Neither too tart nor too sweet. Perfection in a slice

Meeting up with a long-time (not old) friend over coffee. Trung, you're so spontaneously awesome


Spending a day at wine country with a girlfriend. PS: Borina, on hindsight I should've snuck a few more bottles of wine back!


Rockstar photobooth shots

And coming home to the bf of course :)

More on Facebook

Just a taste

Raspberry macaron I made at Le Cordon Bleu

I have a gazillion photos of Paris and Barcelona, though we'll have to settle with these from my phone cause poor PC is dying and can't handle the load. Come on Dell Inspiron circa twenty 07. You can do it!

This recent trip was a short yet eventful one. It's like taking the smallest sliver from a gigantic wheel of European cheese and savoring every moment of its pungent deliciousness. Slowly disintegrating the rind between your teeth and letting the creaminess melt into your tongue.

If you're a cheese lover, you'll know what I mean.

The highlights of my travel didn't just end at Charles de Gaulle (pronounced Shahl-duh-gool) but rather continued with my visit to Facebook's HQ in Palo Alto. Every second in the building kept me drunk with optimism and excitement for what we do on a daily basis. It's hard to feel anything but in love so I've included shots from Silicon Valley as well :)

Taken during my Frenchiest lunch ever, and I say this with much affection

Here at Chez George, an obscure restaurant recommended by Alexander Lobrano, everyone is chattering over lunch in fluent French. There is no doubt I was the only non-local in there attempting to hide my flaws with even more flawed French. Tables are kept apart by a mere inch of air. The room was dimly lit, and the decor was mostly paintings, pans and mirrored walls.

I was placed next to 4 well-heeled men who were sitting at a table for four; though in the oddest arrangement ever! 3 to one side and 1 on the other ??? Halfway through his meal of simple pasta with freshly-shaved truffles (I checked the menu and it was 60 Euros a pop!) one of the gents looked over and poured me a glass of Pinot Noir. It was hard not to eavesdrop as this same gent kept pestering his companion to order le fromage. "Pascal loves cheeeese" he explained after asking if I liked traditional French food.

Across from where I sat was a group of theatrical-looking people. It's probably not clear from the picture above, but the lady in the back had a face I've only ever seen in French cartoons! It was really small and shaped like a heart with even bangs lining the forehead. Atop, was an oversized black bow. To complement the look, she had painted her cheeks with shocking pink macaron-sized circles. One on each side. Her hair was tied up in a ponytail that looked like it was snipped at the end, while still held up with a rubberband. She was skinny and fully clothed from head to toe in black. It wowed me to no end. I couldn't help but feel that she could be someone famous I just don't know.

The view from my humble hotel on Valentine's eve. I missed you hon!


Having fun at Miu Miu


What I covet but couldn't bring myself to buy

Cruella deville on her way to Denver

I spy with my little eye...

Day trip to Mont Saint Michel. It was beautiful with so much history behind it. To think monks used to risk their lives making their way there. I'd reveal more, though I'll just ruin it for you. Wiki does it better :)

Fluffy omelet that deflates in your mouth, a Normandy favorite


Seriously, the room I want to have meetings in everyday


$25 worth of fluffiness


At the Google campus

More on Facebook

Quick update

Remember those travel plans I had? Well, I'm back and won't be traveling for a bit now. At least not till April. I'll write more about Paris and Barcelona when I can though you must know, because I feel compelled to share, that I post most updates on Facebook now cause it's just soooo much easier.

What do you mean you haven't signed up for Facebook??! More than 600 million people are already on it! What are you waiting for? I'm talking to you Viv. Lol. I have to admit. This obsession is what led to a recent change in career. Naturally.

Thanks Stephen, Joe and Laura for being so supportive and the best references I could ever ask for. Here's to week 3!

Gong xi gong xi gong xi ni

Yes, I can still do Chinese songs. After all, I do have Jay Chou on my nano playlist - as my rather astounded coworker observed some months ago. In fact, I just sang 安靜 over karaoke this afternoon. But tomorrow, I shall sing 恭喜恭喜恭喜你.

It's too bad lil' sis can't join us this Chinese New Year. Boy do I remember those years when I had to spend CNY overseas. Where a handful of professors would remember to wish the Chinese students, while others just slogged through lectures without a word. Occasionally there were the eventful ones spent with Asian friends; notably that night in London when Suen threw a steamboat party and a bowl of spicy soup all over herself. Good times.

I'm home again for the my 3rd consecutive CNY since living in the States. It's nice to do reunion dinner with the fam, collect lai see, hear relatives comment about our fluctuating weight and stuff my face with pineapple tarts. This time, I even get to light some fireworks with my dad who got them from a reliable source. Call me if you're interested. Lol.

Here's to a prosperous year of the Rabbit with lotsa great things to celebrate, good health and good fortune all round! 恭喜发财 y'all!

Good to be home

A wee Christmas present

...for me

Rebecca Taylor quilted silk corset in 'tea.' Big ♥

I'll be home for Christmas this year. Can't wait to sit by the Christmas tree with family and open gifts in our PJs. That's one of the great things about having a big family (of girls with good taste and a generous father). Psyched!

Happy Holidays everyone! Hope you get to spend time with your family too.

Travel dates cont.

Guess where to?

I wish I could post pictures of all the beautiful things that captivated me these past months. As well as those from our recent trips and celebrations of all things good. But alas, I can't. At least not now. Don't fret though. I'll be tweeting bit by bit through the weeks. I do miss this blooog :)

Sweet tweets>

Yes. I'm still here

And if you knew how busy I've been, you'd forgive me.

It's only looking busier too. Eep! Fingers crossed I don't kill myself (or the bf) this holiday season.

Days I'll be traveling

To summarize this past month: Amsterdam kicked ass. Canals are pretty. Cycling's cool. Herring smells funny. Smashpot's overrated. Oliebollen's a cross between a you tiao and a donut. I love, absolutely LOVE, Incanto. Fifteen was an experience and a long walk from central. Red lights are diff from purple ones. Green is good. Sinterklaas is a slave-driver? London was colder. Portobello market's as lovely as I remember. Gold Mine wasn't. Borough market's yummy. Monmouth cafe reminds me of Blue Bottle. Pierre Herme set up 2 stores. The bf's getting a new toy. The big sis got her new toy. Baby Travis is in the building everyone! I've lost my appetite. Macarune's last MVPS of '10 is on the 19th. And I'm short 3 presents for Christmas.

A rainy weekend's to-do

1. Sleep in
2. Watch crappy movies. Sex & the City 2 anyone?
3. Experiment on macaron flavors
   
4. Overdose on chocolate
   
5. ...and my personal favorite, click "submit order" button for Thatcher by Alisse Thatcher gear

Look what arrived in the mail!

Weeeeeeee!

Check out the full Macarune article here>

Or pick up a copy of your own at any of the following places in KL:

• KL City Centre – myNews.com KLCC & Pavilion, Krispy Kreme - Berjaya Times Square, Palate Palette, La Bodega
• Mid Valley Megamall – myNews.com, Ruffey I.D, Krispy Kreme
• Sentral – Centro
• 1 Utama – myNews.com (new wing) & Ruffey I.D
• Sunway Pyramid – myNews.com, Ruffey I.D, Bar Celona & The One Academy
• Subang – The Zon LCCT & KLIA
• Bangsar & Sri Hartamas - myNews.com – Bangsar Shopping Centre & Sri Hartamas Shopping Centre, Chawan, La Bodega, Alexis
• Damansara – Wondermilk, TTDI Plaza
• Starbucks
• A Cut Above
• Lecka Lecka outlets
  
• Most bars, dining outlets and other coffee spots

Birthdays...

Almost every close friend I have is a friggin' Libra, it's madness. Right off the bat I can name a few: C, K, M, A, J, G... Though I shan't complain cause this just means more parties during the month of Oct in addition to the all-time favorite Halloween and Oktoberfest.

As with most celebrations, the bf's 30th was made a little more special with friends and loved ones. Here are photos from I ♥ CHRIS Day as promised:

Party kit: color pencils in Chris' favorite shades (green, brown and other army-like colors), fake plastic glasses, picture frames, notebook, little toy soldiers and his childhood pound puppy


First guests to arrive, Neil and Sha :)


The birthday boy in his new Puma shirt from the sis


McDs for everyone along with Boon Tong Kee chicken rice, Old Chang Kee curry puffs and Coke Zeros!


Polaroids with Chris


Birthday candles on Sara Lee pound cakes because he loves them so. Perhaps not so much anymore now that we have 5 loaves in the fridge :D


Proud winners of the Chris lookalike competition: Doreen with her stripey golf top, berms and flip flops and Lilian with her checkered berms and cutout glasses


The party ended pretty early and the morning lasted with cigars and chilled beer...

We ♥ you Chris!

Macarune on I.M. magazine

When I made the decision to move to Singapore I knew I'd be one step closer to KL where I grew up. I had expected to see more of my family, meet up with old friends and start a brand new journey living in Asia. I was certain I'd be with the bf and that I'd get a job working in advertising.

What I never expected was for Macarune to thrive so fast. Imagine, just last year I was still figuring out how to make my recipe work in the humidity!

So when Gwen, old friend from KL and editor of I.M. magazine, approached me for a feature, I was more than ecstatic! Macarune and I have gone through 2 Kitchenaid mixers, 2 North Beach apartments and a comfy house. We're pretty happy with how everything has turned out so far and hope Singapore thinks so too.

A BIG thank you to Gwen for putting this article together, family, friends and Macarune supporters from SF through SG. Looking forward to more exciting journeys and new flavors together!

Click on picture to read more

Click on picture to read more

We heart Chris

Who doesn't?

For the bf's 30th birthday, we're planning an all-about-Chris party. 24 more hours till the big event! Will post photos after :)

September's gift to me

...was another chance to throw a MVPS :)

Somehow all the flavors ended up starting with the letter C. I didn't even plan it! C for cranberry. C for coffee. C for cracking good fun! As usual, here's a list with notes on each macaron flavor:

• Caramel fleur de sel: Swirls of homemade buttery caramel rounds this flavor up nicely. And a dash of Spanish sea salt gives it the perfect kick. Sweet and salty. What's not to like?
• Coconut passion fruit: A new tropical flavor on our menu. While toasted coconut adds texture to the shells, the airy passion fruit buttercream melts in your mouth in contrast. I love playing with textures!
  
• Café avec Bailey’s: Another beverage-inspired flavor. Think a shot of Bailey's in your morning coffee. That's what this is. Just sweeter
  
• Cookies + cream: Need I say more? :)
  
• Cranberry white chocolate: Quite a crowd pleaser, just like the popular American cookie. The tart cranberry hidden within each piece offsets the milky sweet Valrhona white chocolate buttercream. This is a limited flavor that's dependent on my fast depleting supply of freeze-dried cranberries from the States
  

While I hadn't planned the alphabet C-theme, I did make sure to have a good mix of sweet, savory, tart and something unusual to this batch; something I'll be doing for most MVPS moving forward. I'm calling it the flavor wheel, round and complete.

Thanks for coming everyone! I really appreciate how you most of you gave feedback almost instantly. Always love hearing from you :)







C for Chris? ♥