Jeremy's Niche

Ushering the Water Dragon 2012

2012-01-21T20:44:00.000-08:00

It’s 22^nd Jan 2012. Today is the eve of Chinese New Year (CNY). We’ll send off Bunny tonighyand usher the energetic Water Dragon tonight. I wasn’t here in my hometown for CNY last year but this year, yea, I’m back… haha… I’ve been back for a week from Australia. Ever since then, mum and I have been running around town doing some last minutes shopping and preparation to welcome the new lunar year. It’s been tiring week but it’s fun. Doing shopping with mum enables me to know more about our root and family history, and of course, the latest happening (or should I say gossips) within our extended family members. Honestly, there’s no better way to chat mum than running errands with her.

I was shopping with mum in town and I came across this in an old shop. It’s the head of a dragon and it’s meant for dragon dance. The dragon head looks gorgeous, with its facial expression meticulously accentuated by the craftsmaster. Such art is hard to come by nowadays, not to mention the time and effort taken finish of this beautiful master piece. By the way, did I tell you that it’s hand-made? Dragon is an auspicious mytical creature in Chinese culture and dragon dance is performed during CNY or any other major celebrations in Chinese society.

Talking about CNY, how can one ever forget cookies? There are wide selections of cookies served in every house during CNY. From peanut cookie,love letter to pineapple tart, these are the must-have for the occasions and they happen to be my favourites too. So, these are some of the cookies we made this year.

We went to the wet market to get some food for reunion dinner tonight this morning. Man, the market was filled with heaps of people. While some may say walking in a wet market can be disgusting, with unbearable filthy air and fishy smell running into our nostrils, it revoked my childhood memories.

I’ve spent a decent amount of years growing up with the market and it sort of gave me sentiment nostalgia the moment I stepped into the market. From dry groceries to poultry products, you can find anything easily under the same roof. I remember the aunty who sells vegetables, the grandpa who sells pork, the uncle who sells fish, and not to forget the lovely grandma who sells Chinese pastries. It was like travelling back in time when I saw them. Well, of course, I see more wrinkles on their faces now.

Of all the things in Chinese culture, reunion dinner is something we treasure most in our heart. Regardless of where you are or what you do, reunion dinner is one thing not to be missed. It symbolises unity and union, and most importantly, it strengthens the family bond. It’s a gift having to eat with all the family members at the same table. Imagine how often we eat with all our family members? Perhaps not in the modern society when everyone is busy with their work. We work hard, we earn money in order to enjoy a better life but very often, we forget the very basic need of working: filling our stomach. Isn’t that what we are working for? For Chinese, a bowl of rice? While western society associates bread and butter with work, Chinese associates rice bowl with work. We eat rice, and that’s our staple diet. In fact, reunion dinner is a loose term as the exact translation should be Reunion Rice (Tuan Nian Fan). After working for a year, it’s time to sit and enjoy the fruit of our labour, the rice. And who would be the better person to share this fruit of labour with if not our family?

To my dear friends, I wish you a happy Chinese new year. May the water dragon bring you good health, success and happiness throughout the year. I’m hoping this to be a successful year for me. And my ultimate wish? I hope to see everyone dear to me healthy and happy always… Best wishes to my family…

Gong Xi Fah Chai

Chapter 2012...

2012-01-01T07:25:00.000-08:00

Welcome 2012!!! You have arrived.... finally. I've been waiting for you so long. How was the trip so far? haha... Well, today is the beginning of a brand new year. Best wishes to my family and friends. May this auspicious new year bring joy, happiness, health and success.

It's the same old story every year... new year resolution.... new objectives.... new goals... bla, bla, bla.... I wonder what would my new year resolution be? Hmm... sounds pretty hard to tell coz each time I set a resolution, I'd never achieve it. Well, not to say I'm bad at keeping myself on track but usually as we tread we sometimes stray off the beaten track. That's what happen when you discover something interesting that you decides to take another road. That's good coz we have lots of surprises in life. You'll never know. Forest Gump once mentioned before " Life's like a box of chocolate. You'll never know what you're gonna get". As we get up each day, we look forward to the surprises and new things that await us. At the end of the day, you'll be amazed by how much discoveries are made through out the whole day and that made each day a beautiful day. Life is beautiful.

However. there are time when things don't work out as plan and that's when we need to take a step back and think should we continue treading. Or simple abandon it and take a new road? It's not an easy decision when you consider how much effort you've put into it and at the end of the day it's just not working. Come on... wake up and move on...

Well... I've decided to let fate take it course. Follow the flow of the river. Foolish it may sound but I feel that following the course of the road is more realistic. I can set high aims and hope on certain things but what if it doesn't work as plan? I've had a bad experience last year and I keep reminding myself not to repeat the same mistake. If it works, congrats... if it doesn't work, I've nothing to lose. But then again... if I don't have an aim in life, I'll never achieve anything. Ok, make it this way, lets make it more general. I'll achieve something this year. Be it big or small, it's still an achievement.

Neil Amstrong said " That's one small step for a man, a giant leap for mankind". So, my resolution? I want to make myself happy. I'll love myself more. Silly it may sound but hey, isn't it you who know yourself better? If you don't pamper yourself, who will? So, appreciate yourself more. I'll give myself a tap on the shoulder each time I accomplish something. I'll encourage the man in the mirror should I fall like a wounded soldier. We have ups and downs in life so tell yourself it's just a small hurdle. The show must go on even if the actor passes out as audience is still anticipating the conclusion, the grand finale.

So, the theme of 2012? Love yourself.... I will... and I'll never forget to tell my little heart "All is Well, All is Well...." after all, we need a little affirmation in life, don't we?

Happy New Year mate....

p/s: These pictures were taken in Nov 2011 during my trip to Melbourne with mum, bro and cecilia... I love Melbourne ^^

You Are Always on Our Mind

2011-04-20T00:50:00.000-07:00

Esther Wong Peak Kuan
1986-2005

You Have Gone...
To Where Earth Turns Into Heaven
And A Golden Paradise You Did Find
Although We Are Happy
For Your Peacefulness
You Are Missed By Those You Left Behind
We Share Grief, Disbelief And Sorrow
Wondering “How Can This Be?”

Yet, We Are Thankful For The Memories
That Will Sustain Us For An Eternity

Dearest sis,

We miss you in so many ways,

We miss things you used to say,

Sweet memories will linger forever,

Time cannot change them... well, it's true,

And when old times we do recall,

It's when we miss you most of all,

Years that may come cannot sever,

Our loving remembrance of you.

In loving memory of our beloved sis,

Esther Wong Peak-Kuan,

Who went home with the Lord

on 20 April 2005,

Fondly remembered and never forgotten,

Amitabha Buddha

Welcome to Queensland, Australia..

2010-09-01T05:19:00.000-07:00

I've not been blogging since May 2010 after a bitter incident. I didn't know how to continue blogging as my mind was totally blank. Suddenly I just ran out of ideas. I didn't know how to express myself anymore.

It was not until last week when a new friend of mine suggested that I should start blogging, with my new environment as a start that I begin to think " Yea, perhaps it's time to revive my blog'. So, here it is, brand new Jeremy who is currently reporting from his new niche aka new room in a foreign country.

Brisbane River

I'm no longer reporting under my bed in KL but rather reporting from Down Under, the Koala and Kangaroo land. Welcome to Australia.

Uniting Church

I arrived in Australia on the 11th of July 2010 after a memorable and poignant farewell conducted by my family members and friends. My parents were the mastermind behind the extravaganza. I should write more about that in my coming blog as there were indeed plenty of things which I would like to share with.

Brisbane City Hall

I'm currently staying in a peaceful and serene hill city called Toowoomba. This city is located approximately 1 1/2 hours drive from the river city Brisbane. Brisbane is the capital of Queensland, Australia.

Casino, formerly Treasury Building

On the first week when I arrived, I stayed with my ex coursemate aka Vincent Leong in Brisbane. Thanks to his hospitality for allowing me to bunk in at his lovely little house located at 115 Munro Street, St Lucia, Brisbane. Otherwise, I would have to sleep on the street, crawling like a shrimp during the cold winter night.

Story Bridge

Brisbane skyline at night

Thanks to Sing Yew for giving me a lift from Brisbane Airport to Vincent's house lest I would be lost, wandering around the kangaroo land like a loss soul, not knowing where to head to....

I know... but I'll wait for your final revelation, 2 years from now

2010-05-14T12:04:00.000-07:00

It's an unforgettable Friday. Not only Malaysia failed to move to the final after being defeated by China, I've also finally got the answer which I've longed for from you.

It was an answer I expected you would tell. I've told you everything. You are kind enough to tell me yours though vaguely. I wish to ask more, I wish to know more. There are still some I've yet to find out... But perhaps it's good to let faith take its course for now. I respect your decision...

(Courtesy of Mun Li and Canon Cai)

There are many things I wish to tell from the bottom of my heart. I wish to write more but right now, perhaps I shall pause for a while. You told me that you'll reveal if I still wanna know, 2 years from now. I shall wait... coz it's the final revelation that will finally unveil everything which is left unanswered..

I shall wait... I shall...

I wish to tell you how I feel

2010-05-09T08:26:00.001-07:00

I've been thinking a lot these days. I've tried to control my mind not to think but image of your face keeps flashing in my fragile mind, like projector playing in the cinema. It's hard not to catch a glimpse of your face in my picture album. I recall the time we dined, we watched movies, and we shopped for your new house stuffs together. I was indeed happy and delirious when I go out with you. The feelings are hard to describe. It was a mixture of excitement, fun, euphoria, spellbound, or whatever you call it. All I know is I always look forward to going out with you.

I've always thought that you would feel the same. However, lately I begin to ask myself if I've been sensing the wrong thing. I've always thought that you share the same feeling as I feel. Could I have been too sensitive that I may perhaps misunderstood? Perhaps all this while you only want to be friends? Perhaps I'm only playing my own psychology game. Perhaps it was a one side love all the while. Or perhaps you have never thought of me being your partner. Perhaps, there was nothing ever happen... Perhaps it was only me who has the feeling...

Too many perhaps... that I don't know if I should continue pursuing this. I sense that you are avoiding me alot these days. I must have landed you in an embarrassing situation all the time. If I've messed up you life a lot, shall I forget about my feelings?

It's really hard to forget and move on.... What should I do? I wish could I tell you how I feel...

Happy Mother's Day - We love you mum^^

2010-05-08T23:12:00.000-07:00

This entry is dedicated to my beloved mum, Mdm. Chan Choy Hoong.

Dear mum,

I'm happy to be your son. You've never lamented no matter how tired you are. You are the source of my inspiration, the candle in the dark, shining your love in to our life. I've lost count how many times you sacrificed for the sake of our well being.

I still remember the darkest time in my life when I injured my back so badly that I could hardly walk for a year. Just when I thought the whole world was gone, you were there for me, with tender wings and you carried me, you lifted me up when I couldn't even walk at all. I felt ashamed for troubling you.

At the age of 25, I should be walking on my own feet then. I remembered the trouble you took to look after me during that hard times. You gave up your work just to suit my therapy schedule.I remembered every morning you drove me to Stadium for swimming, the exercise recommended by the physiotherapist.

You waited for me outside for an hour while I finished my swimming routine. After swimming, you sent me to hospital Ipoh for physiotherapy on alternate days. When you knew that there was a well known chiropractic in town, you decided to send me there for therapy.

I was angry at myself for giving you so much trouble, for not being able to walk, for creating so much hassle in your life, being a burden to the family at that time. But you told me it was ok, for you were happy as long as you see your children growing healthy and happy. "It doesn't matter how long it takes, as long as I see you recovering, the effort is worth taking."

Everyday you sent me to chiropractic therapy until my condition improved. It was a mental torture when I had slipped disk but you were always there to encourage me not to give up. Your soothing words were the most beautiful sound on earth. Like an angel, you extended you hands and guided me through the ordeal.

The sacrifices that you have made were uncountable. No amount of words could describe the love and care you've shown us. Your sacrifices are as vast as the ocean. Yet you have never asked for any rewards being a wonderful mother. All you ask from God is to see your children growing healthy and happy.

Such a selfless act can only be express by dedicated parents and for that, mum, I really thank God for giving me a chance to be your son. I thank God for having a wonderful mum like you.I know I may not be able to pay back for all the sacrifices that you've made but I'll love you forever. Thank you for being who you are and I really appreciate that. You are always my wonderful mum.

Happy Mother's Day.

I wish can tell... I can't fight this feeling any longer

2010-05-01T10:42:00.000-07:00

I wish I can tell but I know it's not the right time to tell... I've tried my best to understand your situation and I wait. I wish I could understand you better, and open your heart. There are many things that I wish to tell. However, I've little confidence. What would you reply if I ask? Will you avoid me? I'm afraid you would. I don't hope so....

But I'm confused. What shall I do? Why is God fooling me? If only life can be much simpler...But if life were simple, I wouldn't have known the feelings, the unexplainable feelings which I wish to share with you...

I wish I know how you feel, at least I know if we share the same feelings... but if I ask, will you keep silence and avoid me? I don't know... if only God could tell me what I should do?

CAN'T FIGHT THIS FEELING (Reo Speedwagon)
I can't fight this feeling any longer.
And yet I'm still afraid to let it flow.
What started out as friendship,
Has grown stronger.

I only wish I had the strength to let it show.
I tell myself that I can't hold OUT forever.I said there is no reason for my fear.
Cause I feel so secure when we're together.
You give my life direction,
You make everything so clear.

And even as I WANDER,
I'm keeping you in sight.
You're a candle in the window,On a cold, dark winter's night.
And I'm getting closer than I ever THOUGHT I MIGHT.

And I can't fight this feeling anymore.
I've forgotten what I started fighting for.
It's time to bring this ship into the shore,
And throw away the oars, forever.

Cause I can't fight this feeling anymore.
I've forgotten what I started fighting for.
And if I have to crawl upon the floor,
Come crashing through your door,
Baby, I can't fight this feeling anymore.

My life has been such a whirlwind since I saw you.
I've been running round in circles in my mind.
And it always seems that I'm following you, girl,
Cause you take me to the places,That alone I'd never find.

And even as I wander,
I'm keeping you in sight.
You're a candle in the wind,
On a cold, dark winter's night.
And I'm getting closer than I ever thought I might.

And I can't fight this feeling anymore.
I've forgotten what I started fighting for.
It's time to bring this ship into the shore,And throw away the oars, forever.

Cause I can't fight this feeling anymore.
I've forgotten what I started fighting for.
And if I have to crawl upon the floor,
Come crashing through your door,Baby, I can't fight this feeling anymore.

In Loving Memory of Esther Wong Peak Kuan

2010-04-20T09:15:00.000-07:00

Esther Wong Peak Kuan
1986-2005

We Thought Of You Today

We thought of you today,

But that is nothing new.

We thought of you yesterday

And will tomorrow, too.

We think of you in silence
And make no outward show.
For what it meant to lose you
Only those who love you know.

Remembering you is easy,
We do it everyday.
It's the heartache of losing you
That will never go away.

Dear sister,

5 years has passed, yet
it's so hard to believe that you're really gone
and to know that we'll no longer
see your smiling face,
or hear the sound of your laughter.
You left so many memories, which'll never part.
You'll always live deep inside our hearts.
We're thankful that God graced us
with someone as special as you.
It's just hard to believe
your life on earth is really through...

In Loving Memory of Esther Wong Peak Kuan
Who Went Home To Be With The Lord
on 20April 2005
May The Lord Bless Her Soul
Amitabha Buddha

Kaiji:The Ultimate Gambler 18 Apr 2010

2010-04-18T07:22:00.000-07:00

Kaiji: The Ultimate Gambler, is a good movie. I didn't know about the movie until my student told me the synopsis of the movie. This movie involves a group of desperate people who are considered failure in the society. Most are heavily in debts and they desperately need for money to renew their life. Opportunity comes when these people are given a chance to board a gambling ship Espoir ("hope" in French) for one night to clear the debt. One of them is Kaiji Itō, a graduates from a university.They gamble their way to new life but little do they know that this is actually a scheme to recruit cheap labour for some underground resort project. While they toil the land day and nigh to pay for the money loan from the consortium to these people during the Espoir gamble, Kaiji and with another guy names Sahara decide to try their luck on the second chance to freedom from horrible labour work by playing a life threatening game which drives adrenalin up to their brain. Along the way there are few life threatening card games which will definitely glue the audience to the big screen.

It was a rush afternoon. We moved things into Betel Nut.By noon, it was done. We had a quick Pan Mee breakfast at Seri Kembangan. I didn't know it was vegetarian pan mee until I saw some funny looking anchovies (ikan bilis) in the bowl. It was a made of flour. You chose the 'peeled' type and sometimes I wonder if the 'peeled' type taste better.

This is the 3rd time we catch a movie but it seemed every time we also need to rush. The first time was my fault as I swayed into the wrong road. During the 2nd time, we waited for your friends to complete their work. It was still fine but this time, we missed 15 minutes. Luckily we only missed the short introduction. We will not be late anymore next time=.=" enough of last minute... haha.

I loved the Japanese dinner at Sushi Zanmai. The Caterpillar roll with Avacado was nice,luckily this time it was available. I didn't know that you had never eaten Avacado and salmon roe (Ikura). Hope you enjoyed them today^^

Guessing game

2010-04-14T10:32:00.001-07:00

Playing psychological game is no child's play. The longer you guess, the eager you are in getting to know. It's only a Yes/No answer, but to get the answer is not as easy as it looks. Sometimes, the situation seemed to be Yes but most of the time, the situation seemed to be No. I'm confusing myself with thousand and one possibilities of why am I not getting an answer. I've asked myself if the situation favours me, yet, I still cannot get the answer.

You have a rather special character. Sometimes you are warm, talking with you feels comfortable and jovial. But sometimes you are cool, and I refrain from advancing. I sense something but I'm not sure if you feel the same? You are unique, you are special, I'm fond of you. It hurts to see you but not being able to tell how I feel. Am I thinking too much?

Getting you answer is like searching for the holy grail. The more I think, the more confusion I have. Am I Husky? Am I IT? Or perhaps I'm none of them? I don't know. I wish there were magic mirror. I can then ask 'Mirror, mirror on the wall, who's the person you've mentioned before?'

I hope one day you would be able to tell me.... I will wait... I will...

Old Town Guys aka OTG, part 1

2010-04-11T05:20:00.000-07:00

Friendship is a bond held sacred by people who value it. It is based on the sincerity of the heart and the action of the mouth. As the saying goes, a friend in need, is a friend indeed. I'm very fortunate that I've a group of kakis whom I regarded them as my bros since high school. Even though modern science has come up with cloning process, each of my friends are unique in their own ways.

The Old Town Guys aka OTG

Introducing.... The Old Town Guys aka OTG. This has nothing to do with the Old Town White Coffee. In fact our name was coined back in 1998 before anyone knows about Old Town White Coffee. Our name was born out of the fact that we loved to loiter in an old coffee shop named Kong Heng every Saturday before the band practice started in the morning. Kong Heng is situated in the Old Town of Ipoh aka Pekan Lama. That was how OTG started.

Kin Yan's Birthday at Crazy Ice-Cream, Ipoh (circa 2000)
*the small kid on the right was Issac Wong Seong Yoong, our junior

Delvise's creativity in this picture, sense anything weird?

OTG consists of 8 people ( in alphabetical order):

1.Chan Yit Wei@Michael
2. Chung Khai King
3. Chung Kuang Huei
4. Lee Jun Qing@Derek
5. Neoh Wai Loong@Rodney
6. Ngeaw Chun Wah@Delvise
7. Wong Weng Yew@Jeremy
8. Yap Kin Yan

Yuen's Steamboat, Sunway

Our gang was formed based on one common interest: we love music. We were members of the mighty Michaelian Military Band (MMB) back in St. Michael's Institution, Ipoh. We were the Excos for MMB term 1998/1999.

Musicians, The Desert Song, SMI school play

2010 New Year at RedBox, The Gardens

We've gone through many ups and down together, especially during our tenure as Excos in MMB. There were time when we disagree with each other but that 's part and parcel of life. Eventually we will still sit together and laugh at our shortcomings. That's life, we forgive and forget, let bygone be bygone...

Huei's wedding day, Ipoh

9 April: How to Train Your Dragon-3D

2010-04-09T10:41:00.000-07:00

Traffic was so jam tonight. Luckily I reached MidVal on time before the movie started. How to Train Your Dragon-3D: It was a funny and entertaining cartoon. That little dragon named Toothless was an adorable dragon. It has lots of antics, all sorts of nonsense that it never failed to melt your heart with an adorable character. When I got out of the cinema, I saw a poster featuring stitch. Suddenly I realised that Toothless actually resembled Stitch!! Perhaps the artist was looking at Stitch while drawing Toothless.

Toothless the Dragon

Having McD in cinema is a normal thing. But I was rather surprised when you told me you've never had McD in the cinema =.=". Strange indeed huh? ! 1st time 3D and 1st time McD in cinema, and you are watching a Dragon movie, so many Ds... haha.... If not because of that stupid jam, perhaps we wouldn't have eaten McD. =.="... anyway, it was not the worse dinner I ever had though, I still quite enjoyed the Chicken McDeluxe anyway, haha...

I had an ugly Friday noon experience that affected my work a little but that pleasant night movie was kinda soothed the awful afternoon. I enjoyed the night and I hope you've enjoyed too. I assume watching 3D for the 1st time would be a nice experience, huh?

Ching Ming Festival 2010

2010-04-03T23:19:00.000-07:00

Damansara Chinese Cemetery, Subang

Chinese all over the world are observing Ching Ming this week. It's a tomb sweeping day. Ching Ming literally means Pure and Brightness is a celebration of filial piety, a day or the Chinese to show their respect to their ancestors by cleaning the tombs and offering them food and paper paraphernalia. It usually falls in the 3rd month according to the Chinese Lunar calender, which is between March-April according to the Gregorian calendar.

My 5th Pak's (5th uncle) tomb

This event has been an annual family affair but nowadays, younger generation begin to shy away from this event, thinking that it's only another ritual and rites that seemed outdated. This is indeed sad as younger generation no longer appreciate their culture and the living legacy of Chinese civilisation.

Bro and my aunts

They failed to see the significance of such celebration. If we look beyond superstitious perspective, Ching Ming is actually a time for family gathering, a time for family reunion after a hard day work. It's a time to share with family members. In the olden days,the family members will gather at their ancestor's tomb and clean it together.

Mum and dad offering joss stick and candles

5th Pak's altar

The spirit of togetherness, helping each other with the sweeping chores is what strengthening the bond with each family member. We foster closer relationship, we work and we laugh together. After the mass prayer is the time everyone has been waiting for since morning: Food!!!

My ah koo (aunt) from Ipoh

Myself posing with 5th Pak, haha

Everyone will savour the offerings made to their deceased family members. Chicken, duck, roasted pig, chinese cakes, cookies, fruits, and even rice: Each of them will grab their favourite snack (I think this term is a more suitable as we'll take a little bit of everything). It's a tradition to eat a little as it's believed that the ancestor will bless their family members good health and prosperity. I think it's just a way to get everyone eating, as it's a courtesy to eat a little when food is served by the host, not to waste any food.

Treasure chest for 5th Pak, with his name on the yellow seal

This was how we delivered the treasure chest to him, the fastest and most reliable delivery service, Royal Hell Post

Mum, bro and aunt idling while delivering the chest to uncle

Another reason is because eating is the way to get everyone together and chat, no matter where you are or who you are. After all, we love food, don't we, ^^?

Bro, 5th Pak Leong (5th aunt), 5th Pak Leong's sis and I

Chinese is an ethnic group who treasures family ties, so much so that they are group themselves according to clan and place of origin. As such, festive season is the time to foster closer relationship, catching up with the relatives who have not been in contact for long time.If we study the Chinese festivals, one thing you could point out out is family reunion.

Mum, dad, Ah Koo, 5th Pak Leong, and her sis

Listed here are the major festivals and the get-together activities

1st month: Chinese New Year; reunion dinner.
3rd month: Ching Ming; tomb sweeping day.
5th month: Dragon Boat festival; dumpling-making activity.
7th month: Zhong Yuan Festival aka Hungry Ghost Festival; mass prayer to the King of Hades and wandering spirits.
8th month: Mid-Autumn Festival; prayer to the Moon Goddess Chang Er and Moon-observing.
10th month: Winter Solstice Festival; tangyuan-making and reunion dinner

Understanding the significance of these traditional chinese festivals gives us a clearer picture of the roots of Chinese culture and thus helps us to appreciate what makes the Chinese a unique race throughout their long history and civilisation.

2 April 2010 surprises...

2010-04-03T09:29:00.000-07:00

Last Friday was kinda surprise for me. Things just happened without putting a thought to it but I quite enjoyed all the surprises. It was a fun day, 2 April 2010.

It started off with room surveying. Looking for houses was rather funny. The one who wanted to look for a room just kept quiet but the one who accompanied actually discussed the details with the landlord. At one time my friend and I really thought that we were property agent, looking for room for this lamb, lol... We surveyed and finally decided to pick betel nut.

So sorry that we didn't go to Sushi King, but to the hawker instead. I should have remembered that parents are coming over and that I must have dinner with them... Hope the impromptu meet up with parents was not an embarrassed one. The char koey teow didn't spoil the mood I hope, haha... I just got to know that normal restaurants ( not mamak) also serve Teh O' Ais Limau, one drink that I all this while though was only available in in mamak stall =.="

Sometimes impromptu plan would work better than a pre-arranged plan. At least you wouldn't have high expectation. Clash of Titans, I didn't even know whether it was an animation or a movie but I just told my friend that ' Yea, count me in, I'm coming for the movie'. Because of that, we ended up in GSC cinema, IOI New Wing. It was a nice movie experience because the theater was new, and the seat was comfortable. But the best part was watching with a lamb, @.@. strange huh? ^^

Clash of Titans tickets, as usual, I keep ticket

What a tiring but an enjoyable nite....

Thean Hou Temple

2010-03-19T09:46:00.000-07:00

Main Entrance of Thean Hou Temple, KL

It has been a long time since I last visited Thean Hou Temple in Seputeh, KL. When Mun Li decided to ask me to be a KL guide for her German friend, I thought it was a good idea to revisit this popular Chinese temple. But honestly, I'm not a good KL guide. If you ask me anything about KL, probably I would tell you KL is the capital of Malaysia, that's all.

Pavilion
(courtesy of Mun Li and her Canon zai)

Anyway, talking about Thean Hou Temple, a quick browse on the internet reveled that the temple was built in 1987. It was actually relocated from Jalan Sultan, KL. This temple belongs to Selangor and Federal Hainan Association. I guess it functions like a clan house, just like those clan houses cum temples you can find in Penang. By looking at the temple you can tell that the architecture is of Hokkien influence, with multiple-tier roof, decorated with 2 most auspicious mythical creatures in Chinese culture, Dragon and Phoenix.

Multiple-tier roofs with ornaments
(courtesy of Mun Li and her Canon zai)

Dragon
(courtesy of Mun Li and her Canon zai)

Phoenix
(courtesy of Mun Li and her Canon zai)

Other mythical creatures
(courtesy of Mun Li and her Canon zai)

The patron deity in this temple is Thean Hou Goddess. She is well-known by another name, Mazu. She is the patron deity of the sea, overseeing the well-being of fisherman in the ocean. Before going out to fish in the ocean, fishermen would pray to her, seeking for protection and a smooth sailing fishing trip in the ocean. Mazu is believed to have lived in the early Northen Song Dynasty, in year 960. Her real name was Lin Moniang.

Thean Hou Goddess aka Mazu

In the early days, Hainan people were mostly fisherman. Thus, they brought together the practice of worshipping Mazu to Malaysia when they came to Nanyang (southern sea, referring to Malaysia and Singapore). Today,the practice of worshiping Mazu is still popular in Taiwan, Fujian China, Hong Kong and Singapore.

Goddess of Mercy, Kuan Yin

Dog, my zodiac animal according to the Chinese lunar calendar

Yuet Lao, the match maker deity

Lotus candle, symbolises purity and enlightenment

Every year, Thean Hou Temple would be festooned with red lantern during the Chinese New Year. If you come by night, you can enjoy the beauty of Thean Hou Temple glittering like stars with the yellow neon bulbs lining the edge of the roofs. Coupled with the colourful bright lanterns, this temple resembles a shining diamond as night falls.

Greatest person in my life

2010-03-17T05:41:00.000-07:00

I would like to dedicate today's entry to the most important person in my life. He is none other than my beloved father, Mr Wong Fook Chiew. Today, 17 March 2010 is his birthday. Born in the year of Tiger according to the Chinese lunar calendar in 1950, he is 60 years old.

Already half a century old, I think he's fit to be called Senior citizen now. My dad's special to me. He has sacrificed a lot, painstakingly ensures that all his children get the proper shelter and education. He is a responsible father who willingly sacrifices for the betterment of his children. He saves every cent he earns just for his family. He has never spent lavishly for himself. When we were small, I'd never seen him having designer's clothing nor accessories. However, when his children wanted any branded stuffs, he would be ready to fork out the money. He spent lavishly on his childrens' food but for himself, he's contented with only a glass of water and a loaf of bread. This is my dad, who is never putting himself above us. Simple and caring, as long as his children and wife are happy, he's happy.

My dad's a responsible person. He ensures that everyone in the family is always in good order. He has never for once complaint for taking the responsibility as the head of the family. Whenever we have problems, he's always ready to guide us through, giving his lectures and opinion based on his years of fruitful experience.

Dad was not born with silver spoon in his mouth. He started working at a tender age to support the family. Born in a family of 10, there were plenty of mouths to feed. My grandpa was not a successful businessman. He lost his grocery business when he returned to China. Having divorced with my grandma due to some problems, my dad together with his siblings moved from the shop house in Ipoh town to a smaller village in Pasir Putih following my grandma. Life was hard then but they were not perturbed.

Dad worked hard and earn his living by working as newspaper vendor while studying part time in a private Chinese school. He studied until Form 5 and graduated eventually from the high school. He worked as an apprentice in an electrical company where he picked up his skills as an electrician. After acquiring enough skills, with his business acumen, dad started his first electrical company. From then on, there was no looking back.

He worked hard for his family and eventually raised us up to what we are today. Dad has scarified a lot indeed. It was him who moulded us up to be a successful person. Life would not be complete with this person. I'm really proud of my dad. He's the embodiment of love, the epitome of joy. He bought us much happiness, and he's our beloved dad.

Thank you for all the sacrifices. We love you dad.

Prosperity, Fu

2010-02-18T02:09:00.000-08:00

Chinese New Year (CNY) or the Lunar New Year is the most celebrated Chinese festival. In the course of history it has been known by other names such as First Morning of the Year (Yuan Dan) or Spring Festival (Chun Jie). The arrival of new year is considered an important event as it signifies the beginning of the lunar calendar. Therefore, Chinese pays lots of attention to this event.

The word Prosperity (Fu) is the most favourable word use during CNY. Prosperity does not mean loaded with cash alone. In the chinese culture, prosperity encompasses reunion with family, having lots of children, with enough food to eat, having shelter to seek comfort and a place to call home, with good health and positive mind, having friends to share, and most importantly, having a good life. Thus, Fu is usually seen in many CNY decorations.

Here are some of the Fu decoration I came across, some of which are from my house.

Dad brought this Fu from the night market.

These 2 Fu are for doors

Fu from Beijing, China

This Fu was brought from Beijing. It is an imprint art, a kind of art from China. The original character was written by the Late Emperor Qian Loong of the Qing Dynasty.

My big brother brought this Fu from Fusan, China

Ngan Yin Peanut, Pasir Pinji Market

This Fu decoration takes the form of a kid wishing someone. It was actually peanut packing for Ngan Yin Peanut.

Chinese New Year snacks

2010-02-14T05:13:00.000-08:00

Chinese New Year is always the time to savour all sorts of delicacies, raging from cookies to drinks. As usual, mum has never failed to bake cookies for this occasion. Early in the morning, she traveled from Menglembu to Pasir Putih, heading to my small Aunt's house to begin her baking routine with my aunt, sort of join venture between Wong and Chan Family, hahaha....

And so, here are some of her creation to usher the Tiger.

Some of mum's creations

Almond London

Fried crab filament (left) & fried seaweed with popiah role (right)

From the left: chocolate cornflakes, pineapple tart, peanut cookie

I was not in Ipoh so didn't help much (makan of course, haha, I don't know how to bake). Anyway, I did some in KL just in time to celebrate the arrival of Spring, hehe... And what i did? haha... peanut cookies, my favourite ^^

Green pea cookie (left) & peanut cookie (right)

Chinese New Year Gift

2010-02-04T02:37:00.001-08:00

Chinese New Year Is just around the corner. Approximately 10 days from now, we will be ushering the new lunar year, welcoming the prosperous Tiger to 2010.

Already there are many suppliers sending boxes of mandarin oranges to our lab. This year, the amount of oranges are lesser compared with the previous years. This must be another exercise of cutting cost, saving budget to reduce company's expenditure.

Today, we received very special and cute gifts from one company. While other companies only send the mandarin oranges as usual, this company took the trouble of sending us something different from the others. In fact last year. we also received a cute gift from them during CNY.

Introducing.... CNY Special Package Gift.

Tiger Twins

This gift package comes with 3 items:
1. Pair of soft Tiger Doll
2. Fortune Cookies
3. Mandarin oranges

I took the Yellow Tiger and displayed it in my cubicle, wakaka.. Looks cute. Hope it can bring me luck this year, haha...

But I think it looks more like a cat then a tiger, haha...

My new notebook

2010-01-16T04:42:00.000-08:00

I can finally say good bye to my old Toshiba. No more plugging to the Plasma tv, no more fidgeting the LCD screen to get the pic back, no more bringing it out to the living room to access my pc, alas, I got a new member in my Niche.

Introducing.... Compaq Presario, my new roommate, companion, and my wife... Shall I call her Miss Presario?

Specification:
CQ35-331TX
Intel C2D T6600 2.2GHZ. 2MB 800FSB
2GB DDR2 RAM
500GB SATA HDD
Nividia Geforce G105
DVDR-W Drive LS
Windows 7 Premium
Weight 2.24 kg
wifi B/G, CR, Blue Tooth, HDMI
1 yr international warranty, 2 yrs asia-pacific warranty

This afternoon went to Digital Mall with Delvise and Jun Qing. Thought of going to Law Yat and get one but the hassle of driving all the way to Kl, beating through the heavy and excruciating traffic made me reconsider my options. Afterall, Digital Mall offers equally good bargain. And so, after a sumptuous breakfast at Ming Chu near Equine Park, we began our trail of seeking Miss Presario at Digital Mall, PJ.

After surveying a few shops, we finally come to one shop which offered quite good bargain. These were what I got from the shop, 'free gifts' that came with the purchase, konon... wakaka

1. Notebook Cool Pad
2. Headset with mic
3. Keyboard protector
4.USB hub
5. Notebook lock
6. DVD walllet
7. Optical nouse
8. Cleaning kit
9. mouse pad

I've longed for a new note book. Having living with my Toshiba for 5 years, going through thick and thin, it has finally laid to rest. Kinda miss her, especially after journeying with her for so long, having gone through the rough sailing water, venturing the every obstacles with determination and hardship. She has bought me laughter, bought me happiness, and also sadness (especially when I forgot to save my stuff and she shut down, sigh).

Bye bye my Tecra...

Reflection of 2009

2010-01-02T01:28:00.001-08:00

As the curtain of 2009 rolled down, I recalled the things I’ve done for the past one year. There were many things-family gatherings, outings with friends, relatives and friends’ wedding, my work in the Malaysian Palm Oil Board (MPOB), etc.

There were many family gatherings held throughout the year. KL, JB, Singapore, Kampar- the call for family outing has never failed to gather each of us who are scattered all over the Malaysia and Singapore.

I'm fortunate that we have a strong family bond forged among us. The feeling of togetherness and the comfort of being with them is very much cherished all the time. I really appreciate this close-knit family-the gem of ourlives.

Greetings to all!!!

2010-01-01T19:28:00.000-08:00

Procrastination is the theft of time - that is the word of wisdom I learned back in my high school days in St. Micheal’s Institution (SMI), Ipoh.

St. Michael's Institution, Ipoh

It really reflects my attitude towards my blog as I've been delaying it for very long time. Always wanted to write but never have the will to do so.

I'm Jeremy Wong, hailed from Ipoh, the land I called it home, where people idle around, enjoying life in a very simple yet interesting style. I'm based in KL currently.

Ruin of St. Paul, Macau
Merlion, Singapore

I know, it’s either I do it now or I’ll never will. So, what would be a better day to start blogging if it’s not in brand new 2010?

Songkhla, Thailand

Hanoi, Vietnam

So, this is it- not the late MJ’s rehearsal concert but my very own blog: Jeremy’s Niche: Chronicles of my simple life, style, and events, reporting from the comfort zone below my bed, my Niche.

Taj Mahal, Agra India

Tokyo Tower, Japan

Welcome to my Niche. Not to forget, a happy new year to everyone. May this new year be fruitful and bountiful. All the best and stay healthy always....

The Peak, Hong Kong