Stephanie's Diary

Sometimes...

2011-04-30T00:24:00.000-07:00

Sometimes, don't you wish that other people could see what you see?

From the words of God, I would learn life lessons and feel so enlightened.
And then, I would walk out of the door optimistic, and life will knock me down.

Sometimes...

Don't you wish that people could see what you see?
Don't you wish that they could take a look at themselves and admit their flaws?
Don't you wish... that you could change the perspectives of others?

However...

Can you take a look at yourself and say that you are flawless?
Can you stand and proudly proclaim that you are the wisest on the land?
Can you... spot the offense that you may have given to people?

That is why there is forgiveness and love.

Latest Addictions

2010-07-20T19:12:00.000-07:00

During my fashion styling class, my teacher, Deb, introduced us to the most addictive website I have ever visited: polyvore.com! And if you'd noticed, I have a tab that links to my account on the left hand side of this page! It is addictive I tell you, Addictive (with a capital A!) Basically, what happens is we, the creative people of the fashion conscious, could go there, and pair up garment pieces that we LOVE and compile them into an outfit!

EXCITING ISN'T IT? I know!

Urgh, I am supposed to do my gazillion pile of homework but I am so lazy! Summer is just, not the season to study and kill yourself with assignments I guess..

Which by the way brings to an announcement that I have to make: I am officially a member of LA fitness! Yay! Well, it was fun at first, but now, I have personal trainers that constantly bug me to join their program for a whooping $300++!

Now, cung and jay are in Los Angeles and I cannot wait for them to be back! :DD

I am going to upload pictures soon for my profile cause it looks soooo..... wordy? Till then, toodles!

Restart

2010-07-15T13:48:00.000-07:00

I have chosen to share my life in this blog. Yes, it all started when I was in Secondary 1, that is Grade 7, when all I seem to have is myself.

My parents sent me to Singapore when I was 7 or 8. Of course, people are going to tell me how fortunate I am, to be able to study abroad at such a young age. At least, that is what my parents always say.

However, when you are 13 years old, returning to an empty house from school, without a family member to talk to... I don't know how one could perceive that as being lucky. Maybe I am ungrateful, maybe I am immature, but lucky seemed to be the last thing I had in mind.

Regardless, I grew up being who I am today: individualistic. I don't know to look at it in a positive or negative way, but who I am today, whether or not others like it, is a result of not having my parents with me since I was, well... a baby. Most of the time, my maid raised me, and when I was old enough to take care of myself, I took care of me.

Thus I chose to write bits and pieces of me onto this blog. When a person has chosen to choose a medium or person to share her life with, I can assure you, it is honest. Well, at least in my case, it is going to be honest. Of course, due to previous incidents, names are going to be changed to minimize hurt.

It has been 2 years since I have updated my blog regularly! So let this be a restart for myself, and the readers of this blog. For I am a different person now :)

PS: I am using a Mac right now, and I can't seem to download the codes to change my blogskins :( I am working on it though! I want a simpler one :)

Junior Quarter!

2010-05-28T14:04:00.000-07:00

I would like to start by saying that...

I GOT INTERVIEWED BY BCBG!

In case you do not know what it is... you got to check it out at www.bcbg.com
They are internationally recognized and is very well-known for their dresses! It is worn by celebrities, including GOSSIP GIRL CASTS!

And the most exciting thing is, I did not actually applied for it! This whole fortunate situation is because of my friend who worked there and recommended me! :)

Anyway, I am not sure whether or not I got accepted. After all, it is my first real-job interview and I am honestly, very very confused to whether or not I have been hired. The boss said that he will call me in a few days to discuss about the schedule. Yet, he did not say "congratulations you got hired" or any of that sort! :S i am just a gazillion-pieces puzzled.

Anyways, I am working on my Business Portfolio class - my graduating class - and making corrections on it. I just realized how ugly my resume heading is and re-did it! Can't believe I handed the ugly one to BCBG :( sighh, and I am also reflecting on the things I did not mention when I was interviewed and regretting!! :( ARGH, this is stressing me out!

On my defense... it was my first ever real-job interview :( I hope I got in!

BTW, my sister got married!

OK gotta work on assignments,
CIAO!

Autumn' 09 Quarter

2009-10-14T00:02:00.001-07:00

Dear blogster, (abbreviation for blog mister, which is the new name I gave to my blog!) Oh how I dread fall, the cold weather, the strong wind, and the endless rain.

Aside from that though, I am excited for this quarter! :)

This quarter would mark my new beginning in The Art Institute of Seattle. Yep, this is where I am studying (for those oblivious). I am in the Fashion Management and Marketing Program, Bachelors.
My current GPA is not at its best due to my laziness last year, and I hope I could change it this year! :)
I think that going back to Indonesia this time has opened my eyes, and made me realise of the many goals I want to achieve in my life.

Hey, you only get to live once, might as well get the best out of it right! :)

One of the reasons to this transformation is probably my mother :) We did not use to be in good terms, but all of that has changed ever since, well, the recent months. I want to achieve great things for my parents, and make them proud.
Whoever said that one's dream is definitely one's personal dream? It could be fulfilling other people's dream/wishes too right? :)

I am taking five classes this quarter. And aside from my first quarter (in which I had no choice but to take 5), I have never done that.
I am not going to lie and say that this program is not tiring, it is. But I hope I would adapt to it soon and excel in it.

With love, xoxoxoxxo.

PS: I met two amazing girls! Vanessa & Melody, who are like the bestttttt! :)
PPS: IMU :)

Spring 2010 Runway Trends

2009-10-08T17:49:00.000-07:00

Hey fashionistas, I know there are like, gazillions article on spring trends for 2010 blah blah blah.. I tried looking it up on Google and all I got are a bunch of different types trends.
Unable to find what I wanted, I decided to look up style.com and elle.com myself and come up with 5 out of the multitudinous trends that might be huge for Spring' 10! :) It's kind of early to talk about it, but... that is the fashion industry! :D

SPRING' 10 Ready-To-Wear Trends:
1. Feminine Details

-- ruffles, laces, light materials

2. Peek-a-Flesh

-- sexy cutouts, revealing silhouettes

3. Back to School

-- socks, youthful, ribbons

4. Tribal Culture

-- bold patterns, gladiators, flowy materials

5. Folds and Folds

-- drapes, pleats, layers

B IMU :)

2009-10-05T22:32:00.000-07:00

I MISS YOU SO MUCH :(

Today, I went home from school without BB's companion. For those of you who don't know, BB transferred to Oregon State University. (He turned UC Davis down, I know, I screamed at him too)
But um, I guess for now, OSU is better than UC Davis mainly because its closer! :) It's only 5 hours away! So at least I could see him almost every week :D

Anyways, I have to get super good grades for this quarter because,, *drum rolls* I'm intending on signing up for the Vegas trip that school organized for this February!! It's a fashion thing, and apparently, it helps improve my management/marketing skills etc,, so yeah, wish me luck!

PS: Oh my gosh I want my weight to be 50 kilograms! :(

new haircut for fall 2009 :)

2009-09-08T20:12:00.000-07:00

I just got a new haircut! Teehee, cutting my hair in Jakarta is a much safer bet than doing it in Seattle! The problems with most salons in Seattle are that they are either too expensive, or your hair will come out horrendous. Your choice.
Of course, I'd rather go with the expensive one, but i cut my hair less frequently than before :( About once in every three months when I am in Seattle.

Anyways, I went to the Toni & Guy at EX (beside Plaza Indonesia), and got a haircut with Veronica (Top Stylist). She is awesome! I love my new hair, even though it's tad too short if you ask me - though aside from me, everyone else said it was good.
I like the layers that she had given me, plus, she didn't use a razor, nor the jagged shears to thin out my hair. So yeah, I'd say she is pretty good.
In case any of you was wondering to how much it costs, it costs me RP. 360,000, which is approximately equivalent to $36.00. There are three more stylists under her (which means it will be more affordable), and two more above her (meaning, more expensive).

Here is a picture of my before and after:
(I wanted to take the after in the salon just like the before, but my mom was in a hurry :( So I had to take it in BB's house instead)
Before
After

Sophie Kinsella's "Twenties Girl"

2009-09-06T23:59:00.000-07:00

Good afternoon people! Sorry for never, OK, that's an overstatement, sorry fot not updating my blog. But um, fear not for I'm here! First of, as the title suggested, I'd like to blabber a bit about Sophie Kinsella's latest book, "Twenties Girl"

For very very few of you who didn't know, Kinsella is also the author for the famous "Confessions of a Shopaholic," and also happen to be my favourite author!

This book is different from that though, the story revolves around a woman named Lara, who happened to be leading a what she called "complicated life," she got dumped by her boyfriend that she still loved, her business partner went missing after she invested a lot of money in the partnership, and also, she has a family which she is not completely satisfied at. And if this weren't enough, the ghost of her 105 year-old great aunt has come and demanded for Lara to search for her necklace. However as the two spent time together, Lara discovered things she would have never discovered which could change her life forever.
No, I didn''t copy it from the back of the book - I swear. But um, if you are a fan of a light chick-lit, then this book might be a good companion for you :) Lo-ove it! Especially the leading man - Ed - who is oh-so-cute. I reckon that it should be a major motion picture!

Anyways, would be leaving for Seattle in 6 days :( Boohooooo..

to-die-for item of the week

2009-07-12T08:35:00.001-07:00

SIGH. Can you say gorgeous?????? Teehee!
Anyways, I am so going to get this dress in Singapore later! :) It is simply adorable isn't it?! Especially when a huge black belt is placed in between the waist line of the dress :DD

LOOK, it comes in teal too! This time I took the picture on its mannequin for a rough visualization of how it looks :)

Anyways, for those of you who don't know, I will be on the Singapore from the 18th of this month (July) up till the 21st. I hope my friends would not be ultra busy when I am there :( boohoo!

For now, my shopping list of the month would be this dress, and the classic Chanel flap bag! :) I know, I already have a Chanel, but but but, the flap bag is the super classy one! It is the famous classic, and mine's the limited edition. So I want a classic one 0:D I hope my mommy would get it for me when I'm in Singapore! ;) Wish me luck! :P:P

In case you haven't noticed, I am so CRAZY over dresses,, currently -.-

PS: I feel like a cow - FAT.

Fashion Section - Double Decked Dress (DDD)

2009-07-09T00:29:00.000-07:00

FASHION SECTION
Bonjour dress lovers, I am here this morning to cater to you to one of the latest dress trend in Asia: I call them the Double-Decked Dress.

Of course, if you have been to clothing or their online stores within the past 1 or 2 months, you would have noticed a new trend; that is the skirt-over-skirt. In fact, the Bebe dress that I bought has that trait.

In case you still do not understand, here is a picture from Free People to depict that:
This would be categorized under my DDD dress, in a way. But what I meant by the DDD is not exactly this. I meant this:

A dress, with the inner piece acting like the "skirt" and the outer piece as the "top". The inner piece is usually like a simple tanktop dress while the outer one enhances it.
(Inner Piece)
(Altogether)
(Sorry the quality is low because too high of a quality took too long to load, so I used my Blackberry)
I just bought this dress for US$25 in Indonesia! Sigh, things in Indonesia are so much more affordable as compared to USA. Anyways, these kinds of dresses are practically everywhere now! Even in my favourite local boutique in Seattle, Aprie and everyone's seemingly popular store, Forever 21.

So dress lover, here is one more dress category for you to collect,, ;)

PS: It took me SO LONG to complete and upload this entry. The connection here sucks :(:(

indonesia for summer'09

2009-07-08T06:14:00.001-07:00

HELLO EVERYONE! I am so terribly sorry for not updating my blog :(:( it's just that,, the internet connection in Indonesia is REALLY (not exaggerating) bad.
A little bit about my life in Indonesia, it has been fine, I haven't really meet many people but oh well, it's okay. After all I'd be here for 3 months! :)

I love Indonesia!
Well, for the appearance part of mine. For one, the annoying pimples and acne marks of my skin are slowly vanishing. It is ironic since the air in Seattle is probably 100x cleaner than Indonesia's but yeah.. Secondly, I am going to take dance classes and my figure skating classes which will of course, benefit my health since they are "sports".

I dislike Indonesia!
There are two things bothering me. One, my parents. Two, the condition of Indonesia! The first one shall stay undiscussed. The second one however, is incredibly disturbing:

1) Pollution
2) Moral

I do not really want to criticise, but it is just upsetting.

The pollution is just shocking, for me. Well since I've lived in Singapore for practically my whole of 10 years, it is definitely dismaying. The dust/air pollution is literally like mist/fog. It forms a visible translucent layer that uglify the environment.

The moral of the people are frustrating! People stare rudely at you, they do not wait for you to get out before they enter - and I don't only mean in the elevator or entrances. Even RESTROOMS. Like, HELLO, squeezing into the cubicle before one exits?

Anyways, I can't upload pictures yet because my sister forgot to bring the freaking cable/connector :(:(

I'll try to purchase a memory card reader ASAP! Till then, love you all! :)

PS: today is the first time ever I voted for a future president ;)
President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono go go go! Continue your outstanding works for Indonesia!
You know what? This is actually the first time in life I have ever been proud of a President of Indonesia so be excited for me! ;P

books for summer break!

2009-06-21T00:10:00.000-07:00

Here are the list of books for my Summer Read this summer' 09:

1) The Boy in Striped Pyjamas - John Boyne

2) Can You Keep a Secret - Sophie Kinsella

3) Twilight - Stephenie Meyer

I know,, I can't believe I haven't read these 3 books either! Hahaa, I wanted to, but I just want to get my hands on the British version (which can't be bought over in the States). Indeed, it is only a slight difference but oh well, it bothers me,, somehow. So yeah!

Anyways, I went shopping, AGAIN, for the last time though. I bought Bare Escentuals eye-shadows (3 of them) and 3 pieces of garments; sun dress, tank top and a flare skirt. L-OVE IT!

FYI for those oblivious, I am returning to Indonesia on the 22nd June, and would be coming back to Seattle on the 20th September.

It's a mixed feelings for me, I feel happy that I could go back to both Indonesia and Singapore because I could then visit my families and friends, yet sad that I am leaving for the summer because I know that when I come back, things would not be the same anymore. Not only would I miss certain occurrence, I would come back to an all-new environment as my two sisters are leaving.

But I guess I'm used to it... Kind of, in a way...

PS: Happy Bday to Cyun - 20th June!

blog-wer?

2009-06-19T07:53:00.000-07:00

Good morning everyone! Teehee, I wanted to update my twitter on what I am doing but I guess 140 letters aren't enough for my talkative self.

Anyhow, I am in the taxi, on the way to school right now! :) it's raining, and I'm late, and the freaking rush hour is not only delaying my time, it is engulfing the money in my wallet!
Sigh,, will update pictures later on.. Urgh, I wish blogger could have a better blogger mobile, I can't upload pictures straight to this entry! Or could I? Teach me somebody!

Time is money! Literally..

post-final exams :D

2009-06-17T22:41:00.000-07:00

First of all, I am so pleased with myself, and twitter, oh and facebook for allowing me to use the name xquisitedoll! Speaking of which,, I never told you readers why I chose xquisitedoll:
According to the dictionary.com,
Exquisite - of special beauty or charm, or rare and appealing excellence.
Doll - a small figure representing other human being. (usually female)

Anyways, FINALS ARE OVER! :):)
I'm so happy I could almost fly to the moon! After locking myself, and depriving myself from any kind of indulgence, I am finally released!

So I went shopping.
Hahahahahhahahahahahahahhahhahahahahhahahhahahahhahahhah!

I got a BCBG dress, a Bebe dress, and an Aprie (currently my favourite local store) top! All in 3 hours,, :P

Speaking of Bebe, oh how on earth could this store be an internationally recognised, multi-millionaire company?! HOW? HOW?!
I hate that stupid company to the core of our mother earth. It has the worst customer service, worst delivery service and urgh, worst everything I have ever experienced in my whole wide life.

The first time I ordered (well, Bb, not me), it did not arrive on the day it was supposed to arrive. The thing is, Bb specially made the order to be shipped within the next two days because it was meant to be my birthday surprise. Furious Bb then called Bebe on the 12th June and after many insincere apologies from Bebe, Bb then asked for the dress to be shipped again.
3 days later, Bb received a confirmation mail that explained that the item has shipped. To our freaking horror, my name was typed Stephanie Pjiu (it's TJIU), and my address became Samb Pointway (SAND POINT WAY!). Naturally I called and confronted, with again replied with disingenuous sorrys, and as a compensation to these two accidents, Bebe decided to remove the $15 shipping charges (ummmmm thanks for the $15 that would definitely repay my ruined birthday surprise).
Finally the item then arrived, like FINALLY, after all of those annoying incidents, it has arrived. To my deepest disappointment, it was in the wrong colour. It came out grey when I actually ordered the purple coloured, like the one below:

I got this:

When I should have gotten this:

I will never EVER purchase anything from Bebe EVER again. This would be my first and LAST time I would ever order from them. It really is the WORST WORST company I have ever encountered. I expect Bebe, who has so many branches around the world to at least be better than this incompetent standard.

Fashion Section - Go Natives

2009-06-16T08:14:00.000-07:00

FASHION SECTION
Ciao readers, it appears like going natives is not only "in trend," it is not going to go away anytime soon! Traditional, folk, tribal,, you name it, they are going to stay in trend until at least Spring 2010. So gear up, and set off with the light fabrics, foreign patterns and basically, cultural!
John Galliano bringing Folk.
Chanel brought exoticness.
Christian Dior and her tribe troops.

So don't be afraid in the case of getting it while fearing that you might not be able to wear it when it goes because like I said, it looks like it is going to last until the Spring of 2010.
Have a nice day!

level of perfection

2009-06-10T23:03:00.000-07:00

“It is only imperfection that complains of what is imperfect. The more perfect we are, the gentler and quieter we become towards the defects of others.” - Joseph Addison

I went looking for a quote that might reflect my thought on what I was trying to convey all these while. It all started when I encountered my friend's status. It mentioned something like, 'do not complain if one talks bad of you, instead introspect yourself and change'

When I read this quote, my human common sense told me that it is true. But somehow inside me, something was banging on my heart and mind, something was wrong. It was indeed a thought-provoking quote, yet selfish,,, somehow.

Introspecting of self? How many times have we tried to change ourselves, but only finding it to be futile? It is true that we change to improve ourselves. Nevertheless, frequently and undeniably, we wanted to please the other party, and subconsciously long for them to accept us. However, what if the moment you change for one person, another mouth spoke bad of you, criticising your ever-new-attitude?

What exactly is the limit of changing?
When is it ever going to evolve into perfection?

If I had to put it in one word, it would be a "no."
It is never going to stop.
For one could never please everyone.

The key is not to expect others to continuously introspect on their attitudes for changes, but to accept and understand the imperfection of others.
You see, when you start accepting, flaws will slowly conceal itself.
Face it. Comprehend it. Respect it.

Do not expect others to change for you. Do not expect one to change to your preference. But change your attitude, accept and understand that every single human being possesses different personalities, attitudes, and viewpoints toward certain things.

Of course dear thieves, robbers, and murderers, this entry does not entirely apply to you :P

God bless you :)

twitter me!

2009-06-09T21:04:00.000-07:00

I just made twitter folks!
It's a pity they don't have my favourite clothing brands for me to follow :(
http://twitter.com/xquisitedoll

I'm so happy I got this username cause I've had it since 4 years ago.
OK, that reminds me of my gmail account! I couldn't get that username because I chose to go by adore.steph (PFFFFTTTT) 4 years ago when I made this blog,, what was I thinking -.-

Anyways, some narcissistic photos :D

OK, by some, i meant two :P

I'm dying from my overloading assignments and projects! But I'm too tired to move on with all of those chores!! HELP?
Oh and bummer for me, on my birthday, I'm going to be having the hardest, most terrifying final presentation. Hurraaaaayyyyyyy? Pshhh,, why oh lord, why.....

On the brighter note, I'd be relieved once it's over? Siggghhhhhhhhhhhhhhh.......

The Sims 3

2009-06-03T15:13:00.000-07:00

It is indeed THE sims 3! I finally got this (picture below) on the 2nd of June - the official release date for The Sims 3 in United States - at 11 50AM! This one is the Collector's Edition:

Here is the exact before and after disk casing:
(pre-ordered copy)
(ordered copy)

I know, I got this yesterday and blogging about it now is ridiculous. NO IT'S NOT. Any Sims fan would, like me, go straight to their desk/laptop the moment they got home, with the disk on their hand, face beaming, and open the disk drive the moment the computer turned on!!

It took me a while to adjust to the game because it was so different from the previous sims games (The Sims and The Sims 2). Almost everything could be custom-made. YES, even the color of the bed frame which seemingly never match the bedside table in the previous games! I got the hang of it though! Last night. At 1 00AM. OK. Morning. Thus I am only blogging it now! :)

However, I haven't played around with the Build Mode because I wanted to see my person moving IMMEDIATELY. So I bought a pre-made house, unfurnished and placed my fabulous Sims in :D

Personally, if there is to be one a MUST expansion pack for The Sims 3, I would want a Vacation one (or Bon Voyage, as called by The Sims 2) This is because I realised that in The Sims 3, most of the entertainment at the community lots are... meeeeehh~~ They do not in particular entertain my Sims, nor myself :)

Why am I so crazy over this game?
I played this since the 4th grade, age 10 :) and I wanted to be an interior designer (one of my aspirations) as a child because of this game!
Call me crazy, but that's probably why :D

Conclusion of entry: GO GET IT!
Warning: Game is highly addictive!

Jenny Humhprey

2009-05-20T21:55:00.001-07:00

As you all know (or not), Gossip Girl Season 2 is over :(
I am planning on waiting for the DVDs to come out, and then purchase both the 1st and 2nd season! Reason being is because I missed a lot of the episodes from 2nd season :( Like the part when Bart Bass passed away :(

Anyways, I love these two dresses that Jenny Humphrey wore!
I wanted to do an entry on Blair Waldorf, but as you all know, I have a woman crush on her and thus that may take a little of too much time to compile all of her fabulous on-set-garments!
And then I came across these two dresses that were worn by Jenny. Love it!

Speaking about dresses, I found the utmost, most delicious, adorable, beautiful dress I have ever seen in my life (for now :P)
It is a delightful white one-shouldered dress which reminds me of the ancient greek, with a hint of fresh light green belt cinching the waist part. L-O-V-E IT.
But since it costs $300++, I want to make it worth its price. Therefore, I am going to purchase when I made my mark of losing my 3rd kilograms.
It's so hard because I love food. And food loves me, I think.
Bleah.
WISH ME LUCK!

PS: No offence, but... Do all dog owners have a certain dog smell on them?

Spice Girls

2009-05-18T21:55:00.000-07:00

OK, so, this is really random but, do any of you people remember this girl group?

I used to really love them, especially the song "2 become 1"

Never heard of it? Just click the 'play' button.
Listen to the music, how soothing, how sweet it is.
I just, simply simply adore it.
What I never realised was the fact that it is actually depicting *clears throat* pretty much sexual intercourse.
For 10 years! I actually thought this song is a story about a cute lil girl (picture Emma Bunton) with some cute guy, with a decent relationship. By decent I meant, well, you know, the definition of decent by the conservative asians...

Don't believe me? Below is the lyric of the song:

Candlelight and soul forever
Dream of you and me together
Say you believe it say you believe it

Free your mind of doubt and danger
be for real don't be a stranger
We can achieve it we can achieve it
Come a little bit closer baby get it on get it on
'cause tonight is the night when 2 become 1

I need some love like I've never needed love before
(Wanna make love to ya baby)
I had a little love now I'm back for more
(Wanna make love to ya baby)
Set your spirit free, it's the only way to be

Silly games that you were playing
Empty words we both were saying
Let's work it out boy, let's work it out boy

Any deal that we endeavor
boys and girls feel good together
Take it or leave it, take it or leave it
Are you as good as I remember baby? Get it on, Get it on
'cause tonight, is the night,when 2 become 1

I need some love like I've never needed love before
(Wanna make love to ya baby)
I had a little love, now I'm back for more
(Wanna make love to ya baby)
Set your spirit free, it's the only way to be

Be a little bit wiser baby, put it on, put it on
'cause tonight is the night when 2 become 1

[back to chorus]

getting a puppy!

2009-05-14T23:30:00.000-07:00

OK, I figured since I am most probably not going to sleep tonight, I might as well relax myself through a blog entry. I am starting to be a regular at blogging again! Yay me..!

Anyways...

STEPHANIE IS GETTING A WESTIE! (West Highland White Terrier)

Well, technically, I am not the one getting it. BB is getting it and we have been discussing this for such a long time! At first when we were deciding on which breed to get, I immediately introduced this dog to my boyfriend - because of the Cesar Canine Food advertisement. But that slowly drifts to Pomeranian, Toy Poodle, Malti-poo, Yorkie-poo, and even Husky (I know, crazy).
However, we returned to our initiated plan, that is, to purchase a Westie :)
He (and me!) is getting our dear Ruffle (I gave her a name already!!) once we are back from our summer vacation from Indonesia :D

In addition to this, Yuri, my Japanese Language teacher who used to have a Westie called Kelsie assured us that we can consult her for any, ANY problems. Yes, that includes babysitting if BB and I happened to be busy :D

PS: her Kelsie was an act-dog for the Cesar Canine Food in Japan! How cool is that?!

For those of you who is oblivious to what a Westie is...
Fret not for here comes pictures!

This is what I'm talking about!

JUDGE

2009-05-11T22:24:00.001-07:00

Can I use this blogger as a diary for the day?
No more entry for the sake of entertainment, but pure voice of the heart.

A quote popped into my mind while I was talking to Pau, "As a kid, I knew life was harsh. As an adult, I learnt life is harsh."

Have you ever felt like you could not do what you want to do, fearing that other people would judge you?

Have you ever been judged, and was upset by it?
Then looked back and realized that you judge someone else?

I just feel like that right now. My personal principle is that I would never want to judge anyone because as a kid growing up, I have been judged severely.
One time during my secondary school years, a guy came up to me and said "stop being a bimbo" because I looked into the mirror in the midst of walking back to class from the gathering hall.

Definition of BIMBO (www.dictionary.com) - an attractive but stupid young woman.

I am definitely not a bimbo. To begin with, I am not what you would consider attractive. To be honest, at times I feel like I am a beauty, but at times when I look into the mirror, I just go bleah. My nose is not pretty, my double eyelids are not as huge as the beauteous Europeans/Americans, my mouth is not specifically attractive. Secondly, I would not consider myself an airhead because I know I am smart. Not genious, but smart enough to not study and get an occasional A on Maths and Science. Smart enough to possess four languages, write and articulate English with little (or no) difficulties despite me learning it only at the age of 8.

How is it that one could look at a person, witnessing an action that he or she does, and decides on what kind of person he or she is?
"Oh she danced erotically, she must be a cheap slut"
"Oh he likes so many girls, he must be a player"
"Oh she is loud, she must be an attention seeker"
"Oh he drives a Honda, he must be poor"

Whoever told you that people who danced erotically are cheap? What if that is something they are good at. Does it mean that someone who doesn't dance erotically is pure virgin?
Whoever gave you the right to mark one as a player? Is it his fault that he is emotional. Why can't one help instead of mock?
Whoever said that the loud ones are the attention seeking ones? What if that is just the way he/she learns. Think, aren't the quiet ones an occasional attention seeker too? (picture a child in a corner)
Since when does driving a Honda judge the social class of a person? Bill Gates loves Economy Class, poor,, errr don't think so. In which year did thrift tantamount to poorness while splurge equals wealth?

I am just saying........

Anyways, pictures from the cruise taken by other cameras :D (The CS Photography & The Cruise Team)

Spring Cruise 2009

2009-05-10T22:24:00.001-07:00

Spring Cruise on the 9th of May!
The party was alright, but the Indonesians were tad different than the Singaporeans (that I know) when partying. :) Agree or disagree? :P
Anyways, pictures!

--------------------------------------------------------------------------
I know I've been complaining that I am fat etc etc, but this time, I really really think I should lose weight! Boohooooo.. It's so sad because, I LOVE FOOD so much, you have no idea. Haha,, Good luck to me!
I am thinking of having 1 bottle of v8, or Naked juice in the morning for breakfast, and a small portion of food to last me throughout the evening :D crossing my finger,, wish me luck!

Lastly, Happy Birthday Deeeeeeeeeon!

2nd May' 09

2009-05-04T20:59:00.001-07:00

First of all, let's all just pretend that it is the second of May of the year 2009 right now, even though it's actually the 4th of May.

Why 2nd of May?
Because it is the half-year (I used half YEAR instead of 6 MONTHS because year sounds longer) anniversary for BB and me! :D

Here are the bits and pieces of that day :)
PS: They are not the same blur pictures from my Facebook! Whoopeeeeee!

We only have 3 pictures of ourselves and THIS bad one is unfortunately the best -_-"

Anyways, can I blabber now?

Well, it was one of the most unexpected days because there were so much blessings in disguise!
First, we got evacuated from Pacific Place just when the movie (17 Again) was starting.
Then when we got to our favourite restaurant, Boka. My delicious, delectable, tasty Pork Shank was no longer served :((
Lastly, I left my key at home, which obviously deprived us from getting in the house in the middle of the night.

Well, the reversal were, 1) We proceeded to watch the movie shortly, and even got two free passes for any movie next time 2) We tried a much more delicious meal Duck Confitti without having to worry about any Swine Influenza related disease after consuming it 3) BB and I realised something as we sat outside with real quality time :D

Conclusion of the story: HAPPY!

OK, moving on..

WATCH THIS!

The deal? Hot guy says it all.
OK, I'm kidding. I'm not that shallow.
The movie is pretty meaningful, I think. It's just that, there were some holes; missing parts that seemingly left me hanging in the air.

What happened to their children?
Why happened to the custody ultimately?
How is it that the wife just bought the fact that her husband became 17?!

STILL, I love the show!! What could be better than staring at Zac Efron for a whole of 2 hours (almost)?!

more than words

2009-04-29T23:04:00.001-07:00

OK, I am going to disobey my 'To Do List' book and skip on Fred's homework to write this entry.
Have you ever had a true friend?
Sometimes, at a certain point of my life, I feel so friendless.
Maligned, betrayed, backstabbed, hated, misunderstood.
I feel like... people misunderstood me so much for one or two things I have done. Something that was not done intentionally, or was done recklessly. Or worse, because of something somebody said.
But then I turned back, and reflect, and realised how many true friends I have, and I thank God. Perhaps, I am not the only one in this situation. Perhaps, I am indeed the most misunderstood person in the world. Perhaps, people hate me for who I am.

The thing is, does it matter? Does it matter that insignificant people in your life hates you, and then ruined your day, months, years and life when in actual fact, there are people; friends who will always be there for me, who accepts me for who I am, and love me for that.

Isn't it enough that I can get up in the morning, knowing that somewhere out there, I still have my family, my friends, and my lovely boyfriend? :) Then I thank God again :D

Perhaps, living everyday with that little love is sufficient for my happiness, and enough for me to smile each day and say, "I am indeed lucky." :D

I wanna thank the people below for the inspiration for this entry (nicknames):
Ani
BB
Becky
Cidon
Yon
Ling Neh
You Mei
Cngel
Cyun
Mom & Dad
Popo [get well soon :'(]
Ndo
Vendoy

I LOVE YOU GUYS SO MUCH! :D

countdown to indonesia

2009-04-16T10:40:00.000-07:00

Hello sunshines! It has been uber long since I last updated.

Currently? Not at my best. The cold and cough virus have unfortunately made me their target. Not only that, seeing me sniffing, and coughing was apparently not satisfying enough for them. As such, they went on to call the make-her-nauseous and the make-her-headache viruses to invade my poor delicate systems.

Spring quarter has started! It has already been the second week, actually. This quarter has been full of homeworks and assignments, for some reason. Most of which are projects, and journaling. Give me a break somebody! Fortunately for me, I am going back to Indonesia and Singapore in less than 3 months..! :DD

Countdown to Flight Back Home
HURRAY!

Spring Break

2009-04-02T15:08:00.000-07:00

OK, so I didn't go to Victoria because of the incorrect timing and season! Initially, B and I wanted to go there for the urban food culinary trip. Do not ask me to what it is because I don't know either.. It's just the name, you know, it interests me..! Also also, B finally talked me into whale watching and churned my interest in doing so but to me and my butt's horror, NONE of them is available for the joy of the both of us! :( Urban culinary tour is only available in Saturdays, while Whale and Grizzly Bear watchings are only conducted during the Fall season!

However, HOWEVER, rest assured everyone! I still managed to run off to Vancouver and Portland.

We didn't really take pictures in PORTLAND though..

PS: Stephanie took the train to Portland! :) My first train ride :DD

Here is B's first trip to VANCOUVER

I caught a glimpse of the sunset from the mountain top, where we had our dinner :D

きれいですか？　＾＾

badebudubo

2009-03-22T23:48:00.000-07:00

Hi B, I love you :)

PS: I'm done with finals!! :DD
Vancouver and Victoria,,, here I come! :D

life

2009-03-22T23:24:00.000-07:00

It has been a long time since I last posted anything. Life in America, is not as beautiful as I used to think. Perhaps, life, is never as beautiful as I have ever imagined.

Life. What is it all about?
When you show your unhapiness, you're wrong.
When you show your happiness, you're wrong.
When you stand for your principle, you're marked disrespectful.
When you overlooked your principle, you're marked indecisive.

What is life, but mistakes?
Since when does laughing out loud becomes a stupid action?
Since when does crying out loud becomes an attention bulb?
Since when does laughing inside becomes a sign of hiding of true self-image?
Since when does crying inside becomes a mistake for not releasing it?

What is the ultimate goal in life?

Why did God created us with such obstacles?

Why didn't he then created us perfectly if all he wants is loyalty and righteousness?

Is this topic even worth pondering over?

Who gave us the right to judge others?
Who gave us the right to judge oneself?

What right do we have to accuse others of mistakes?
What right do we have to glorify others of doings?

Life, is full of hopes and disappointment, jovialty and sorrow, expectations and anticipations, love and hate.

Truthfully, I don't know what life is all about... However, I am determined to find its answer :) So everyone, let's work towards a better life ^^

Madeline

2009-03-11T22:26:00.001-07:00

Tears rolled on her cheek as she walked into the white, hostile room. Everything, except vivid frail image of her mother on the paper-white bed was blurred. "Dare you look up, Madeline," she mumbled to herself. Eyes red as the bed of rose lying outside the hospital window, she glanced at the wrenching sight of her mother. If there were no pride in her, she would have ran to that woman, and hugged her. The woman that never encouraged her, that woman that seemingly hated her, the woman... that left her for another man.

Sleepless nights, drenched tears, and oblivion to the occuring world had ostensibly washed away the hatred and anguish Madeline used to feel. All that mattered at that desperate point, was for her mother, to open up her eyes, and say anything; insults, reprimand, or even the obsolete compliment her mother used to tell Madeline when she was little.

Madeline sobbed quietly as she sat at the beige leather sofa on the left-side of the hospital room. The nurse that escorted her in was now out of sight. An urge to cry gushed out, but was quickly stopped with a loud sigh. She was strong. Of course she was. Left to live with only her busy aunt at the age of six, Madeline was everything but weak. Nevertheless, even gigantic Goliath was defeated, and even the mighty Titanic sinks...

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

This essay is going to be completed through your imagination :)
The above situation is just depicted to visualize my personal exaggerated future. Of course, my mom did not leave me for another man :D
I used to tell myself I hated my mother, that she never appreciated me, and all. There was even one point at my life when I tried to ignore her, pretended to be all nonchalant. Because I thought, if I wasn't close with her, there would be no regrets if she passed away as we already stopped talking.

But what if one day, I had to witness her on the hospital bed, not nudging for even an inch? Would I still be holding a grudge against her? Or would I regret my thoughts and reactions towards her?

Then in life, is it really necessary for a critical condition or death of a person for one to forgive another?

shoes

2009-02-21T11:12:00.000-08:00

*WARNING* The following content may contain materials that would bore non-fashion followers of anti-fashionistas.

Hello readers from all over the world, whom of course, like fashion, or at least know a decent amount of brands or styles!

How many of you guys are familiar with ALDO? (www.aldoshoes.com)
Aldo, is of course familiar for me because the three countries that I lived in have this particular label - ALDO.

NO?

Vague impression of this shoe label?

Perhaps a picture could refresh your memory:
Yes, it is the one located at Wisma Atria (Singapore), Pondok Indah Mall II (Indonesia), and Bellevue Square (United States). Well, not only these three places, they of course have many many more branches!

Now,, do you guys know Spring then? Teehee, this is so exciting! Spring is a label, like Aldo, from of course, the Aldo Group itself. However, it provides cute shoes at a more affordable rate.
Equally cute if you ask me!

Moreover, you do not have to worry about it's quality because it is by Aldo Group. :)

I am just sharing this because I am super excited as I now have more shoes stores to discover and buy my shoes from!

Now speaking about shoes,, and happiness. I am not totally happy actually.. Have any of you noticed the higher heels the market offers? 5 inches (12.7cm).. 6 inches (15.2cm)..

I was browsing through Nordstrom for a really cute pair of bootie this morning. And as I was browsing, I spotted like, seriously, the most perfect pair of shoes. I meant, BCBG, at $130, black, and a peep-a-toe bootie. How better can it be?!
How better can it be is right.

That shoe was a whooping 4.5 inches heeled shoes! I mean, if I were standing at a petite 155cm, I would be happy to be 167cm. But if I were a 170cm, that smile would be upside down because I would then be standing like a 182cm giant!

Also, really? You would want to tip-toe (at that high of an angle) for 8 straight hours?

BOOHOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!
Okay, I should shower, it is already 11.30am.
GAH, is there any way I could shorten the height of the heels? :(

Confessions of a Shopaholic

2009-02-15T09:47:00.000-08:00

Valentine's day was pretty much different from the previous Valentine's days Ive had ever encountered, Old Folk's Home. A large group of people. Hmm, breaking the spend-with-partner (if you have one) tradition is perhaps not so bad.

Not the whole day in Old Folk's Home, definitely. We went to catch a movie after that.

Of course, if we were to be given list of movies to choose from, Confessions of a Shopaholic would pop into our mind. After all, it is, by the famous author Sophie Kinsella. To be more precise, my all-time favourite author.
Then again, book and movie? How many times have we readers stepped out of a movie theatre feeling like a sour cream, upon discovering that the movie is a far disappointment from the actual book?

Well you wouldn't in this one!

Between the scenes, during the movie, my subconscious was just waiting for the disappointment that I would feel everytime I watch a book-to-movie shows. And all the time when I told myself "here it is, here it is," anticipating the dissatisfaction I may face, my brisk beats of my heart seemed to be transformed into a smile.
This is probably the only movie that I felt was up to the standard of the book.
The movie however, is pretty different from the book, Derek Smeath was childish. Rebecca Bloomwood was more mature than the fictional character in the book, and a little bit of unfamiliar details and twists occasionally.

Oh what can I say more?
CATCH IT!
Why do I like this book? Well,,, if you know me, then I would not need to answer this question for you :)

demanding or not?

2009-02-08T16:01:00.000-08:00

You know when they say, girls are demanding, and then some people just let out a burst of skeptical laugh,,, yeah they're not kidding. Girls are demanding! Well, most girls...
Of course, I am nothing like that, I am just, the least demanding person anyone would have ever met. I just want 5 (or maybe a little bit more) major things in my life (for this year).

Stephanie's I-don't-care-if-it's-unrealistic list:

1. Smart Car, and Mercedes ML320, both in PINK.

2. 10% of the Dutch's blood running and absorbed by my body tissues for better face features. You owe us that bit of a gorgeous look for colonizing our country!!

3. Balenciaga Covered Giant City in black, and Large Patent Lady Dior in white.

4. A black, and a white toy Pomeranian (or toy poodle) which will be called Waffle (white) and Truffle (black)

5. High metabolism rate to the point of that I could eat 10 times a day and still look like Angelina Jolie,, not that I exceptionally like her or anything, but her body shape just popped up in my mind the moment I think "skinny."

Blah blah, ÓK, I'm just bored! Hahaahh, which is so wrong because actually, I have like multitudinous, huge pile of homework waiting to be completed!

Anyways, the above list was pretty unrealistic except the materialistic stuffs, but even those are too much, and over the top. Now seriously, I want to get the new Honda FCX Clarity series in pink.
This picture is the car in red. However, it is not coming to Seattle any sooner because it runs on hydrogen instead of the ordinary fuel, and the regular gas stations here do not offer that kind of service :( Nevertheless, it will come, and I really hope it comes out before my birthday this year :D The reasons why I want this car instead of the two above are:
Firstly, it is affordable, only $25,000++ :)
Secondly, it is Honda. My heart does not feel a twinge if I allowed that car to be custom made - pink.
Thirdly, it runs on hydrogen gas, I mean how cool is that?!

Sheesh, alright I got to finish my World Civilization homework, which never fails to kill my brain cells FYI.

PS: I miss you already Fan :(

I'm no robot

2009-02-06T23:25:00.000-08:00

If it's so tiring, why don't you let it go?

I'm so sorry if you happen to pass by my page and felt the gush of depression that was reflected through the above statement. Of course, it is not depression. I'm not that weak, never that weak, I am totally fine.

Nothing much is happening, except that my cousin, Stephanie, is here. No, I'm not refering to my alter ego. Her name is Stephanie too :)

This is her, she'so gorgeous, and has this extremely long lashes; NATURAL long lashes.
I AM SO JEALOUS because I have oriental lashes. Boooo!

Here we are! :)

I gotta do my homework now :)
Somehow, I am taking homework into liking because it kind of distracts me from the reality, somehow. It's weird since homework is like, a dread to most people ;P
Anyways, Good night folks.

Stephanie wants a Pom!

2009-02-03T08:51:00.000-08:00

Before I start my entry, I'm gonna display a very narcissistic photo of myself first ;P
Good morning everyone... like the morning breeze, I am feeling calm, zen, tranquility I tell you.

*Aaaahhhhhhh~* inhaling deeply for the fresh morning air..

I WANT A POMERANIAN! I want a Pom, I want a Pom, I want a Pom!!! They are just the most adorable thing you would have ever seen in your life! Especially the white ones! B and I came to an agreement that we are going to buy a puppy this fall :)
He came up with Lilian, I came up with so many names, mostly names of desserts though. Of course, he doesn't want the feminine cute adorable little Pom, he wants a Westie. You know, West Highland Terrier, the one displayed on the cover of Cesar (Canine Food brand).

Isn't she a cutie!? (I don't care if he's a he, I like she better)

Why am I not getting it?

BECAUSE MY HOUSE HAS THREE SIBLINGS who would disagree with my idea! Sigh, sometimes, I really wish I'm the only child. Like that time in Singapore,,, it felt lonely at times, but I am used to that. Strangely, I am not used to living with so many people.
And perhaps, fate wants me to stay that way - first of all, my elder brother (cousin) went to Ohio the moment I arrived. Then, my brother is going back to Indonesia at the end of February. So there's going to be just the three of us left. This fall however, my elder sister is moving to San Diego to attend Gemology Institute of America. So there will only be my eldest sister and I, and that is if she managed to acquire a H1 Visa, which is unlikely due to the global economic crisis, especially in America. Moreover, Obama himself has already stated that America would be giving locals more opportunities than foreigners.

Bah ignore ignore ignore, I am going to prepare myself for school, EARLY because Deb, my teacher would gave me her killer look if I were to be late again.

Sayonara!
PS: I am taking Japanese language classes! Hohoho~~

one step at a time

2009-02-01T09:03:00.000-08:00

I cannot believe it has already been a month since New Year. Teehee!
I know, I know, finally some quality time with my blog right? For the previous weeks it has only been abstract entries of my feelings, opinions, and greetings for you readers.

Well, not anymore readers!

Not that I am feeling any better,, I am still suffering from insatiable exhaustion, somehow.

Well, this quarter, unlike the previous three, I am putting in a little bit more effort because I got an F for one class last quarter for missing 8 out of 11 classes. That meant that my average GPA, which would be my ultimate graduating GPA was pulled down drastically :( So yeah, I am aiming for a 3.6 and above for this quarter.

Took this picture last night to prove that I am OK, and am still alive :)

Anyways, I am currently working to improve myself so give me your support readers! The two things I want to work on would be:
1) ACADEMIC IMPROVEMENT
-> Finish all homeworks ON time.

2) ORGANIZATION IMPROVEMENT
-> Keep a tidy workplace AKA study desk.

These are just the baby step that I want to achieve currently! It may seemed really really simple but TRUST ME, I am just, urghh, one, the laziest (BUT STILL SMART ;P) person that has ever lived, AND the messiest person you would ever encounter. HAHA.
I throw my clothes all over the room, my books are always scattered everywhere, so yeah, I would like to do it slowly and steadily.

Don't believe me? Oh, I am going to show you some photos in the next entry.
For now though, toodles!

increasing absurdity

2009-01-31T21:46:00.000-08:00

A 16-YEAR-OLD girl instigated an unknown man to rape a girl who had bad-mouthed her previously.

When the rape failed, Nor Azura Omar forced the 13-year-old girl to have oral sex with the man and even recorded the obscene act with her cellphone.

All this took place at a staircase landing of a block of flats in Woodlands on June 28 last year.

A district court heard that Azura had planned to 'break the virginity' of the girl and wanted to take revenge on her for having badmouthed her previously.

She called a chatline and managed to arrange for the unknown man to meet her at a block of flats in Woodlands Avenue 1.

Over the phone, she told him to 'break' the victim's virginity.

The victim overheard this but was afraid to make an escape as she feared that Azura would beat her up, said Deputy Public Prosecutor Diane Tan.

Initially, Azura's accomplices, all between 12 and 15, did not know about her plan.

Surrounded by Azura and the group, the victim was forced to lie down on the ground.

She then instigated the man to rape her but he failed.

Unhappy, Azura forced the victim to perform oral sex on the man.

After the man, who is at large, had left, Azura remained unhappy that her plan did not materialise. She felt that the victim had not learnt her lesson.

The DPP said she then slapped and kicked the victim, who was also attacked by the rest of the group.

After inflicting group violence, Azura decided to humiliate the victim further by forcefully stripping her of her shirt and bra, exposing her breasts to public view.

On Friday, Azura admitted to five charges including one of misappropriating her friend's bag on July 24.

Community Court judge May Mesenas called for a reformative training report on Azura before deciding what to do on Feb 20. She also wanted a psychological assessment on Azura's risk of re-offending.

The above article is taken from:
http://www.straitstimes.com/Breaking%2BNews/Singapore/Story/STIStory_332238.html?vgnmr=1

I am really really, indescribably, freaking appalled. I mean, what is happening into the world nowadays?! When I read the headline, I was like.. "oh, teen? well, she's probably 17 or 18, because of her capability to do such vile things to her company."

APPARENTLY NOT.

She's only 16, which means she's probably in Secondary 4 or um, well, simply uneducated... And her accomplices are between 12 and 15!? Seriously? SERIOUSLY? If I were the Government of Singapore, I would be deeply, deeply ashamed of myself for having these foolish people in the country. I mean, I would be having all sorts of adrenaline rush at that age due to many issues, but not to the extent of asking a man to rape my enemy! I just.. wow, am simply stunned.

If a 16 year-old has the capacity to commit such crime, what do you think an older person can do? WHAT is wrong with these people?! Don't they think before they commit something?

Did she not consider the fact that this girl, that she abused may not have the courage to live her future?!
Did she not realise that she may be ruining the future of a HUMAN BEING?!
Did she not have the least bit of empathy of what this girl, and the people who love her would feel?!
Did she not recognize that for the rest of her 70 years of life, her life would be tainted with this trivial vengeance she came up with?!
Did she not think that she would be in a serious trouble if someone find out?!

I just find it really ironic. People are supposed to be smarter! I mean, with the increased affluence, higher level of technology, and broader exposure and all!
I just cannot understand why someone would be silly enough HARM somebody else fatally when in actual fact, it is themselves that they are harming!

Oh lord, please please help the world!

B

2009-01-26T10:20:00.000-08:00

为了我而哭的男生，怎么可能不值得我的爱：）

Recap of New Year's Eve

2009-01-22T11:35:00.001-08:00

I know, I know, if ever there was a "who neglects their blog most?" competition, I would be nominated for that by my readers.

Sorry for the long absence!

For the most part, I have been missing due to the winter break, in which I went to Las Vegas, San Diego, Los Angeles, and San Fransisco, with my family.

Except my eldest sister because she had to work.

And as for the rest of the absences, well.. I has some problems. BUT, it is all fine now, I am moving on, and am much better than the rest of the three quarters :) Thank you for all of your concern, especially the people in Singapore :) Love you guys!

Anyways, for now, I am chipping off a little bit of my busy schedule to write this. As such, I do not have much time to blabber like I usually do. Oh! Here are some of the photos from Vegas, the night before New Year.

Yeap, we flew from Seattle all the way to Vegas. I know, I know, I look a little bit.... OK, a lot like crap but I was just not in the mood for Vegas that day. Somehow, I wanted to stay in Seattle for my New Year, which, now that I think about it, is pretty retarded.

When we arrived in Vegas, it was like, 3 hours before New Year's countdown. So we walked to Bally, the hotel, for the anticipated fireworks.

However, BOOO! There were only fireworks from two hotels, which was freaking blocked by the humongous bridge. So my brother and I decided to take picture. (HAHA, no link at all)

Lastly, this is the hotel that we stayed in for three nights. Care to take a guess of what hotel this is? ;)

The rest of the photos are in my Facebook photo albums :)

PS: The pictures in my blog varies from the ones in Facebook because these are the ugly photos! And I do not want to show my ugly photos to the people in Facebook! Wkaka, I know, I'm so blonde...
Till the next entry you guys, toodles!

Merry Xmas 2008

2008-12-25T10:49:00.000-08:00

Have a joyful Christmas everyone! May every day be spent like Christmas, full of love, full of decorations, and a spirit that gives, GBU.

Christmas tree in Rio De Janeiro, Brazil.

Father, please grant every decent wish this Christmas.
With love,
Stephanie :)

confession

2008-12-14T22:18:00.000-08:00

I've learnt that to wake up, realising that there are those people, who love you, who care for you, is enough to give me a reason to live.

It may be too late for me to discover this, but God, please do not take several things away from me.

goodbye girlfriend

2008-12-09T11:37:00.001-08:00

On the plane from Indonesia to Seattle, I was having a mixed emotion; hesitant, down, yet excited at the same time. I had a lot of thoughts, to how my school was going to be, to how I would adjust to my new family, and preeminently, to how I am going to survive without my best friend.

When I arrived here, I was greeted by that cheerful girl, whom I had been friends since 3 years ago, Richie*. She was never very close to me, but deep down inside I know I want to treasure her, for she had been my closer friend when I first came to Seattle. She and I, we had so much in common, and like everyone else, I thought that she would be my best friend. During my finals, she was there to help me, during her boredom, I would be there to accompany her.

That is until Lily* came. Lily and I were never that close, she however, was one outgoing person. She talked to everyone, she laughed with everyone, and she danced with anyone. Despite many people's dislike, I tried to be her friend. I wanted to spend more time with her because I want to discover her more. For I thought, behind every person like that, a part of them is lonely, somehow. The first step to that closure was, I thought to ask her to church, for that is how Richie and myself became close friends.

I knew I was drifting apart from Richie, but I did not know how much until I came back from Los Angeles from a 1 week vacation. She never tells me anything, she did not even text me as often as she used to. The furthest we went was chatting in msn and a casual greet. I was confused, and at the same time worried. But soon, people of all sort started telling me things I do not want to hear.

Basically, Lily had a thing for my boyfriend (then, not yet mine), and as far as I know, she told people all sorts of thing. One of them was an implication that I was the one who's ga-ga over him. Another was that I only treated him like how I treated my guy-friend. The thing is, she hardly knows me, in fact, she knows NOTHING about me. And to top it all, Richie was influenced by all of these.

Knowing this fact, I was at first perturbed. Here I was, trying to pull the friendship back, apologizing every single time I thought I offended her, asking how she is doing despite her cold reply, and there she was, letting it loose, drifting apart by every judgement she concluded, alienating through every word she heard.

Yesterday my friend, Polly* told me, "true friends do not listen to other's words."

I came across a quote that I vaguely remember, it mentioned, "indeed she was a friend, but that was then for now it's end."

I want to mark this day through this entry, for you... are not worth it anymore.

judge me somemore

2008-12-06T01:15:00.000-08:00

"Seemingly a hundred hate call
Yet one love conquers it all"

(through texts)
Stephanie: Shuling am I a very lousy friend?

Shuling: No. You're the best I've ever met.

I just decided to post this up because I really wish that I could keep these two messages forever.

This evening, I was feeling a little down, due to certain issues. I really hate sharing saddening scenarios that I am going through. I mean, I know I convey my messages clearly almost all the time. However, expressing my sadness in words is just not my forte.
And somehow, Shuling just hit the jackpot to that questioning. No curiosity, no expression of sympathy, only that precision of answer I needed.

Now, like her answers, I am sticking to my initial principle, strongly and firmly.

I still have a question though, how do people judge others before getting to know them?

“Let every man judge according to his own standards, by what he has himself read, not by what others tell him.” -- Albert Einstein

PS: Thanks to Becca and PY too, they're like ZE BEST!

M.A.C + Hello Kitty = everlasting love

2008-11-25T14:59:00.000-08:00

Can somebody scream ADORABLE!?!

So anyways, this line will arrive in M.A.C's website on the 10th of February, and would be in North American store on the 12th February!

For you people outside of America... Awww, it'll be there in approximately a month after ;p

Scream with me, someone!!

Urghh, I wanted to get the 4 eyeshadow packages from Bare Escentuals so much... but I guess I have to strike up that plan because this Hello Kitty line would be money-ripping, and I don't want to be having truckloads of cosmetics either so GOODBYE Bare Escentuals. Boohoo!

Seattle HMC's result

2008-11-24T11:34:00.003-08:00

It's Monday and I am seriously not going out at all, despite the fact that there is no school, because I am gravely tired. Can you believe it!? I went to church 3 times this week as our church had a Healing Movement Camp.

I know that it would seem weird and/or superficial because I am not exactly what you would call a "lily-white." I like dancing (in dance classes and clubs), and I am taking a major that supports the many of the causes that pretty much opposed to the world of Christianity; Fashion Marketing.

Trust me, I am confused myself. What am I going to do?

Still, I am not going to discussed the above question, as I am still on way into discovering it. One step at a time yeah?
I just want to share with you guys the words that provoked something in me when I listened to the pastors:

1) You are worthy, and nobody... NOBODY in this world eligible enough to judge you, except God.

2) Sometimes in life, the right things you do may seemed stupid to others. However, at some point of life, perhaps faith is a better choice than logic.

With this 2 points, I want to relate back to a story of Terry Fox that Dio's father, also yesterday's pastor, shared with the church.

Terry Fox is not unfamiliar in Canada because this street/area name is used in many parts of Canada.
And usually, only historical heroes or memorable individual have the privilege to be named after a place and thus, Dio's dad curiosity aroused and decided to ask a Canadian about him:

Terry Fox is an active youth who was born in Canada, and was determined to join the Olympic for the Marathon, and thus, had been training since the age of 17.
At the age of 18 however, he was diagnosed with bone cancer and was recommended by his doctor to amputate his right leg, for a chance to live longer. This claim however, was not a certain claim as the doctor himself had his doubts about how much longer he could live if he were to really amputate his leg. As such, Terry Fox declined this offer, and decided to keep his leg, leaving approximately a year for himself to live.
Instead of wasting life through frustration and depression, he decided to still run, and not for the olympic as he knew he was already incapable of running despite his desire.
He then participated in the Marathon of Hope, which is a run, to support, to raise funds for cancer patients like himself. He was determined to run across Canada despite his leg, despite the pain he experienced whilst running, despite the exhaustion he faced during the run.
After 143 days however, Terry was forced to stop as his cancer had spread to his lungs, and he died at the age of 22.

To some people, it would seemed futile, or even stupid, that a man who only had a few years did not want to fulfil his life, that he refused to amputate his leg for a longer life. However, he managed to raise $400 million for the people that may have a chance to live longer. The death of 1 youth, awakened a million people that initially had given up on their life due to bankruptcy, due to the death of a loved one, due to terminal illnesses.
How can they not be awakened? When a man who was dying was striving to complete a run with excruciating pain? Not willing to give up, or give in to his malady.

Terry Fox, to us may seemed dumb at first, but to God, to many of the people who had received hope through his actions... is indeed a hero.

my confession

2008-11-19T10:35:00.000-08:00

Have you ever dreamt of starting your life anew?
Have you ever wanted to improve yourself?
Have you ever experienced what I am about to jot down?

Before I came to Seattle, I really thought that it would be the perfect opportunity to change my old-self. Initially, all I wanted was a local best friend, a good result and a well-controlled bank account. To me, these three are probably the quintessence for my life in Seattle.

However now that I am here, I have not accomplished any of this three, well, except the good friends part, maybe. As for the rest... my results have not been satisfying, and the balance in my bank account is continuously used frivolously.
Almost every day, my indolence would eat up my plans, Almost every week, I would be purchasing something new, and almost all the time, I would be trying so hard to please everyone.

I hate sounding so helpless!

I just want to mark this day, this post, as my turning point in life.

And now, I am going to start by turning up to school ON TIME (yeah, I, Stephanie Juniarta, "never fails to turn up late" according to one of my instructor). So I got to go take a shower now =D

So yeah, wish me luck!

Fall's All-In

2008-11-16T17:00:00.000-08:00

Maria's camera
Stephanie's camera (not mine)So I went to All-In with Andre, Fuji and Jahja last night and, that is basically everything. I mean it's a club, people go, people drink, people talk, people dance and bleah, there is actually nothing to talk about, really.

Wait actually there's one thing to talk about.. my legs hurt like crap! I think it is due to the one year break from dance classes plus, three hours of non-stop dance last night. Boohoo! I think I am losing my flexibility.
Can you imagine this scenario:
Mr Dan (my dance instructor) to the junior dancers: OK dance girls, this is our senior, Stephanie and she's here to demonstrate the split that I used to torture them into doing.
ME: *set my feet apart slowly*
-20 cm later-
ME: Cannot already, cannot already!
-a moment of silence in the dance studio-
Urrrh, can you say social suicide!

Seriously, I need an organized schedule to stick to. Or else I would not be able to get things done! I.E. Saturday's dance class which I have missed for three times now.

Anyways, last night, I saw MM, who used to be my good friend in Secondary School. I am really glad we talked. Even though we are not as closed as we used to be, I'm really glad that we are still friends, or at least acquaintance =)

When I told my sister about this, she said that MM is a pretty cool person, unlike her frenemy who kept broading over their childhoood squable, and then spreading the rumours of the supposedly overlooked past.

Honestly, I do not really know what caused our gradual estrangement, but I am really glad that we are still talking, with hopefully no hard feelings.

Her and I, we used to have the same thoughts, the same point of view, live in the same area and have the same birthday! We were pretty much alike, but of course, she is hotter ;p
Oh! And we met in the most unusual way, we talked to each other randomly, in the library, and then everything started happening so fast, the friendship... the partition.

I know that this would seemed really unimportant and exaggerating, somehow.
However to me, friends; true friends, are really imperative.
My four years in Singapore, without my siblings, nor parents by my side, I only had these great friends. Whether or not they were friends or enemies, each of them moulded me into who I am today, each of them brings something to the table, and allow me to understand something, to realize something, and experience something that make my life interesting, and meaningful.

Good memories are meant to be treasured, bad memories are meant to be reflected upon.

Don't you agree readers? :)

Jessica read this!

2008-11-15T16:49:00.001-08:00

[http://jessicajohanes.livejournal.com/43965.html]

I miss the girl who hugged me whenever she had missed me

I miss the girl who claimed her "best angle" when taking pictures

I miss the girl who partnered me whenever we are in the KTV lounge

I miss the girl who danced wu niang with me

I miss the girl who hid her face in the blanket and told me she hated me to my face

I miss the girl who talked to a poster in the middle of the night

I miss the girl who helped me clean my house

I miss the girl who cooked me an over-cooked blood when I was undergoing low-blood
pressure

I miss the girl who brought me porridge and banana when I was sick

I miss the girl who insisted that I teach her piano

I miss the girl who continuously pestered me to teach her Science

I miss the girl who cried as if she was the most vulnerable thing whenever she is sad

I miss the girl who always failed to give me a surprise cause it's not surprising

I miss the girl who taught me how to take a bus from Mommy's house

I miss the girl who had the same short skirt and would always hide together

I miss the girl who brought many pins in case our teacher caught our hair

I miss the girl who supported me in whichever decision I choose

I miss the girl who took silly pictures with me

I miss the girl who prank-ed people in Cineleisure with me

I miss the girl who lied about not sending me to the airport

I miss the girl who bawled on the phone when I left Changi Airport

I miss the girl who loved me for who I am

I miss the someone whom I could call a genuine "say"

I miss you, Jessica Ang Shi Shi =(

car, daddy, car!

2008-11-13T11:59:00.001-08:00

OK, I have no idea what is into me nowadays but I just can't stop blabbering!

If you are my loyal blog readers, you should know that I am known for neglecting my blog for at least a week before updating it with another post!

Apparently, that habit is going to change.

I AM SO FRIGGIN' TALKATIVE THAT I HAVE ALREADY USED FIVE LINES TO BABBLE ON HOW TALKATIVE I AM.

Anyways, I wish I had a car =( I know, I know, it is so against my previous belief but like I said, people change right! 2 seconds ago, I am not I am, I am who I was.
As confusing as that may sound.

Regardless, DADDY, I want a car!

I hate the rainy weather in Seattle. It makes me wish I had a car like, almost 16 hours out of the day! And that 8 hours of not wishing I had a car is simply because I am asleep!
WELL, unless I dreamt that I wish I had a car, then maybe it is more than that 16 hours.

Ignoring all of the jabber above, I received a letter from the International Student Advisor just now.
*heart beat*
I have to see them ASAP.
*praying hard*
There is a "warning" under the status heading.
*heart skipped a beat*
ARHH! I am so going there later.

UPDATE: It was nothing, they just needed a copy of my insurance =)

Anyways, I bought something extremely exciting in Uwajimaya (a japanese supermarket)!
Recognize this??
IT'S CHOCOBI!
The snack that obstreperous Shin-chan loves!
I know this would seem really childish, but I can't help it. It just gives this fluffy warm feeling to my inner child...

indogosipgurl's denseness

2008-11-10T02:34:00.000-08:00

Do I... *GASP* see a sign of racism??

HIN & thoughts
Remember this post readers?

Read it once more, with complete comprehension of the post before crticising my character through the difference of thoughts that I, Stephanie Juniarta, was delivering.

Of course, with your incommensurate English, and your inconsiderably low level of intellect, it is really easy to misunderstand what an author is trying to convey in her message.
As a loyal follower of God, as you have mentioned me to be, or as what you presume; that all Christians are holy pure, I thereby forgive your farcical comment.
Amen.

thanks for the popularity

2008-11-09T09:46:00.000-08:00

OK, so I'm sure most of you have seen the indogurl's gossip page where my delightful post about shelvy was pasted on the note.

Bwahaha thanks! It was a one day post and she managed to call me a "backstabbing bitch" from that post?

How do you judge a person from a post may I ask EVERY one of you?

When you are mad, my dear stranger, you say mean stuffs, and I don't think that a day's post of anger is worth of all that hype, and my my, you have a lot of anger installed in your system, don't you? ;)

And if that post were meant to be private, I wouldn't have wrote it on the public blog honey~~

Quote from GG "You're nobody until you're talked about."

So I guess, thanks for making me a somebody.
That is, if you're successful in hurting the people you've said. and that people are bored enough to go look into your page.

And I have to admit, you're good (excluding your umm, i don't know, mediocre English language? HA!)

FYI, she was never my best friend. A friendship takes more than repaying and partying with each other.

school's getting boring!

2008-11-07T11:21:00.000-08:00

IS IT ME OR IS EVERYBODY GETTING KIND OF LAZIER DURING THE FALL?

I remember during the spring quarter, despite the two 7.30s classes, I would wake up eagerly to go to school, and to make sure that I made it on time to school!

NOW?

I could barely leave the house for my 12.30pm class!

WHAT IS WRONG WITH ME!?

Anyways, I caught High School Musical 3 yesterday!
I know, I know, I am late bla bla bla, or I am already 18 and that is a Disney Production targetted towards youngsters bla bla.. Bwahaha I'm such a dork.

OK, truthfully I am writing this so that I would not be accused of neglecting my blog so, I'll just show you guys my classmates!
Yeah that's what we do when the teacher went out of the classroom for like, 5 minutes to get her things! Teehee!

Anyhow, we are going to University Village (an outdoor mall) for our class today! Toodles~~

doltish? i hate.

2008-10-31T23:48:00.000-07:00

WARNING: The content of this entry may cause outrage.

Good evening readers, it's Halloween!

Halloween here is so different from the years I have spent in Singapore. In Singapore, you know its halloween when the owner of the condominium sent out a note of Happy Halloween and to whether or not the particular unit wants to participate in the traditional "trick or treat". Over here, Halloween is promintently halloween because on the 30th and 31st of October, peeople are noticibly walking around with costumes.
So what is so outraging about this entry, you may ask?

No, definitely not this I assure you.

Firstly, I want to ask you people, how many of you hate stupid people? Like really stupid. When I say stupid, I do not mean mentally challenged. I meant, more like the blockhead kind of stupid..

Because I absolutely loathe them.

It is just the only thing that my tolerance is not able to take in somehow.

An example?

OK, so let's say you're studying with Agnes. Agnes is a typical dimwit, who decided to spend some quality time with you and thick books of Chemistry. And when you were deeply engrossed in solving that difficult question, frantically scanning the chunk of words on the book in hope of finding the answer, she interrupted. Naively looking at you and ask
"Which are the questions we are supposed to do?"
"It's in the syllabus just look at it," while still searching for the answer.
"Um, I don't know which one is it.."
"On the 3rd page of our syllabus"
"Is it this one?" while pointing at it in hope of you regarding her by glancing at the page and give her a cue of confirmation.
"Yeah." OK, just lost your concentration and the line you were reading.

Second scenario?

Let's say you are in the restaurant with the person you loathe (call her Beatrice), who somehow fancy patronizing people. You are in the restaurant with your companion and Beatrice.
Suddenly your companion started blabbering all of your bad habits to Beatrice, and also, talked about how you were rejected by the university that you applied to.

Now how do you like them dolt?

blogskin

2008-10-29T19:28:00.001-07:00

OK.

I'm in the process of re-constructing my blog right now, amidst of all the endless (and procrastinated) assignments, in hope of getting back my spirit to blog!

You know, like New Year when you get those new clothes which signifies new life and/or improvements. That is eactly what I am trying to achieve.

Anyways, as I was browsing through blogskins.com, I noticed that many of the skins are usually on the extreme left of the page, leaving empty space on the right side of the window! It bugs me, honestly, it does. And being a perfectionist does not help either..

I found this adorable little (well, not little, but i'm just using the word to emphasize it's cuteness) blogskin, which made me clicked the "preview it" button enthusiastically in hope of finding the ultimate skin for my fabulous blog.

HOWEVER, as what my nightmare had depicted, the picture was too much on the left!

If you do not know what I meant... THAT'S ALRIGHT, I have pictures for the um, graphic-minded people.

Isn't it like awfully adorable?! As you can see, the cloud moves!!

The only thing is the picture alignment! (for the 10th time I'm mentioning)
ARGGGGHHHHHHHHHH!

And this problem - well at least for me, it is a problem - applies to most of the skins at blogskins.com!

SAD.

Do not worry people! I am going to find a perfect cute-sy adorable dainty little skin, cause I'm in the mood for cuteness.

Till then, I got to do my Salesmanship homework because it is due tomorrow!!

PS: I am not being ungrateful for criticising the skins, it's GREAT! It's just... I'm a horrible perfectionist (ASK SHULING/PEIYI). Overall, the skins provided by blogskins.com are really pretty and innovative! *****

UPDATE: My new skin is done!
I told you it was going to be cute~~

3 is the charm

2008-10-27T22:22:00.000-07:00

First of all, Happy Birthday Hellena =)
On the 25th October, we celebrated Helen's (Hellena's) birthday in the Ruth's Chris Steak House.
One week before that, me, Stephanie Juniarta Tjiu decided to come up with the most brilliant idea ever! That is, to create a Helen's Day, which will consist of a proper dinner, and of course before that, clues and challenges (with the help of Ani!).
Basically, I spent my time doing this instead of doing my Science homework =X
It turned out pretty great actually! She was mad at first because both Andre (her companion for the day) and her had to walk around virtually the whole of downtown for approximately 3 hours in order to eventually reach the dining place and by that time, her hands were full of flowers and balloons. Fortunately everything turned out great. I really hope she is happy cause she's like my new lover! Well, Ani and Helen, which explains the title of this post.

Here are some photos from the actual day.

Anyways, I am really delighted about the whole thing, but OK, this is really weird, at the same time, I am pretty much intimidated of what other church members may think.

Ani and I talked and realize that by creating a special day for Helen to spend quality time with her, we are excluding the rest of the church members which left me pondering and pondering and nevertheless feeble... somehow.

Originally this whole thing was meant to be a "quality-time-day" but people seemed to presume that we are celebrating her birthday which is not even the case.. That is the reason why I chose Saturday (25th) instead of the 26th (Sunday) or 27th (Monday), which is her actual birthday. It is solely because I thought that our church members would want to celebrate it with her on Sunday while her family would like to celebrate it on her actual day, 27th October.

Apparently by doing so, we are considered to be ostracising people.

ARHHHH! I am so confused! Like seriously....

AWRY..!

You know what?

It is really a good thing I have a blog.

Then I could really blabber, narrate, jot down all my thoughts without bothering other people!

And to think that I wanted to delete this blog! Sheeesh..

uncertainty

2008-10-16T09:34:00.000-07:00

I am sorry I haven''t been uploading my blog. It's just that, life has been too busy for me and at the times when it decided to give me a time-out, my brain refuse to dig up the best blog entry to be jotted down. Well, not that this is the best entry, but whatever.

Life has been OK for me since school started.
I am currently taking:
General Science (GE115), Michael
Fashion History (FD155), Jim
Salesmanship (FM 237), Fred
Store Operations (FM219), Deb

OK, so maybe, after I re-read this entry... maybe school's stuffs is not exactly the most interesting topic.
Not that my life is excruciatingly boring.. No. It's just that everything that has been going on right now is too hard to be narrated.

But oh well,

Is it possible that an eighteen year-old wise young lady (HAHA officially the most brazen statement) do not understand herself?

Because strangely, as I grow older, I am strating to doubt that the "me" that I have been self-proclaiming - or at least self-assuming - is not the real me, and that I am starting to realize how little I understand myself...

I hate it.

Because of my uncertainty, I hurt people, and these are the people who love me.

And whatever I did to make them feel better, I aggravated it. It is the kind of steps when you tell yourself that it is the best solution, and voila! does not turn out to be how you thought it was going to be.

OK, I am done conveying my thoughts.

PS: I love Vancouver's nightlife.
OK. Shut up Stephanie.

blind

2008-09-29T22:20:00.000-07:00

Went to Jack in the Box for our snack before we have our proper dinner and as I sat waiting for my sister to came back with our order, An oddly behaved man caught my attention. He was biting a packet of sauce, and then quaffing it, followed by another packet until the several packets on his tray were opened and vacuous. As he moved his hand slowly towards one of the 2 burgers he had bought, I then realized that he was actually blind.

Immediately, I felt a pang of guilt for judging his unusuality of appetite, and then I started to wonder to whether or not he knew that the packets and packets of sauce he ate were meant to be spread onto his burgers instead of eaten individually. And then I felt sorry.

I mean, for me, if I were to be shut in a pitch dark room for 2 minutes, I would be crying helplessly. I would not want to move, I would choose to stay in my comfort zone and stay there until the lights came back on. I would be so scared because I do not even know or even realize what was actually happening to me and everything around me. I would be ashamed, and sad, and feel alone, somehow.

I just wish that, there would not be anymore blind people because, I just cannot imagine how scary it would be, to not see anything, to not be able to see the things that even a baby could do before they started anything else (except crying, of course)
So PEOPLE, let's all pray for these people, not necessarily so that they would be able to see again, but also, so that they would have the strength, courage and chances to live their life to the fullest! =)

*WARNING this is out of point*
I MISS SINGAPORE A LOT!!

Text from J:
"kangen bgt say. cpt blk sini ya. nti g pasti lengketin trus.
nti kalo ksini, masakin lg ya n g mao blajar maen piano jg. n berenang. tdr brg. i miss u say."

SAY, kalo g balik, i'll teach u piano mpe tangan encok2, kt bakal nyanyi2 n dance mpe diusir dr ktv, kalo bsa, g pengen bngt ajarin elo chemistry n masakin nt only noodles tp jg kue2 yg ga ksempet ksh k elo! GBU always, always always =)

branded phones

2008-09-27T12:00:00.000-07:00

OK, can somebody tell me how not to get a heart attack from this?! As my cursor moved towards the "enter" link, I decided to write this entry. I mean, who can resist this?!

Wheeee! I am so getting this phone on December (because they do not have this phone in Seattle). Thus, my mom and dad, who will be coming here on December, would be at the point, when they hand me this phone, the best-EST parents I have ever had!

I have seriously, developed deep love towards phones that collaborate with premium designers! One of these would be in one of my blog entries, Samsung + Versus. For those of you who do not know, Versus is the second line, well, not exactly second line, it is considered the family company of the Versace family =)
The next phone that had been penetrating into my dream every single night last year was the LG Prada.
However of course, I was discouraged from getting it because my aunt got it first and told me that it was not exactly the kind of phone to-die-for.
Ooooooo~~ and as far as my knowledge stretches, the famous golden "Dolce & Gabbana" (mimicking the deep voice that came out everytime the phone switches on) motorola.

OK, excitement's over, gotta shower! Toodles guys~

back from Los Angeles

2008-09-26T00:15:00.000-07:00

I am sure many of you readers knew that I went to Los Angeles. I am not going to blog about it as the pictures are in my facebook and friendster ------------>>>
Brief recap of the whole trip:
1st day (Rodeo Drive & Americana)

2nd day (Desert Hill & Street Promenade)

3rd day (Six Flags & Karaoke)

4th day (Bethany & Hollywood)

5th day (San Diego)

6th day (L.M.U. & Street Promenade)

The pictures are of low quality because I grabbed it from facebook! BOOO! Sorry~

BANK BAD OF AMERICA

2008-09-09T21:21:00.000-07:00

OK so, I am really pissed with the Bank of America right now, and I really hope that many people are going to be reading this because THIS bank (The Bank of America, also known as BofA) is not providing the right customer service that a bank should offer since banks' purposes are to provide good services.

Specifically,on the 8th of August (Friday), which is a month ago, my bank account was stated that it had a $100 withdrawal which I have never made because in America, especially for students, we do not usually carry more than $50 in our wallet as everything can be conveniently done with a card. Anyway, I then approached the Bank of America in the Northgate Mall, since that is where the teller made that TIME & EFFORT-CONSUMING MISTAKE,on the 13th August (Wednesday) because the bank is not open on Sunday (My only less busy day) and thus, I had to go on Wednesday because I would not be having school on Thursday.

Long story cut short, overall, I have approached the bank 8 times about the MISTAKE that the teller commit and to my extreme disappointment, their promises of returning it always went back to the same futile effort.

I mean, seriously, the purpose of the Bank of America is what? To make other bank envious? To provide the best service? Best service in what?! Are they so busy that 8 requests is not enough to revert THEIR mistake?

I mean, I am not pissed because of a $100 which is not even much. I am just annoyed that they are not even doing AT LEAST a good in effort, in at least keeping their promise. If the Bank of America is not adequate in providing the service they are supposed to deliver then do not make empty promises. Or at the very least if they want to claim that they are providing the "best service", be pretentious enough to at least look like they are instead of being unprofessional!
I am so furious! If they are incapable of bringing the money back, then just apologize at the VERY beginning instead of making me waste time and effort and getting furious at something so trivial!

GOSH, seriously, are there any better banks in Seattle????

Fall's TV shows I'm excited for!

2008-08-17T00:13:00.008-07:00

My favourite all time TV series! Very scandalous, yet delicious =d
GG Season 2.

Privileged, based on Zoey Dean's book, "How To Teach Filthy Rich Girls"

90210, the zip code of Beverly Hills, California.
Probably another tantalizing show full of luxuriance..

This Fall, I'm probably going to be in front of the TV every Monday and Tuesday, specifically CWTV to catch all these three shows. Good job CWTV!

Speaking about scandals, since the TV series Gossip Girl, I was really inspired by Blair because I tend to be a little like Jenny, always agreeing upon other people's request and ultimately get myself into trouble, somehow. Also, my brother often tells me to not talk to strangers but I JUST CAN'T HELP IT cause they seemed so nice which in my opinion, is very Jenny!
So I really wanted to adjust myself to be a little bit like Blair!
The scenario of my story is, I was walking towards the dental clinic when this stranger greeted me cheerfully and started talking to me, whom joyfully replied to his 1001 questions. At the end of the conversation, he added "you have a really nice personality," which totally made my Blair project a failure! HAHA How can I ever be like her, you tell me!

Anyways, I went for my first pedicure in Seattle today =D
And since purple is so in this season........
I really love the place btw! The chair that we sat on (my brother and I) were electronic massage chair and what could be better than being massaged whilst pedicured. Oh and the staffs were really friendly =)

L.A, here I come!

2008-08-11T21:10:00.006-07:00

Yes, that's right, Stephanie's going to L.A on the 17th September!! Like FINALLY.
I've been wanting to go there since um, well, since... well, OK maybe 2 weeks ago when Jacqo and I discussed about it!
BUT STILL.....
I mean, Seattle's like COLD and me don't like cold weather while L.A's like, always warm =) So I'm, pretty excited as we (that is, my sister, Angel, Indah and her sis, Annie) are going together ^^

Toodles!

cupcakes are sweet

2008-08-10T11:23:00.000-07:00

Last night, Maria and Indah came over to our house to make some cupcakeeees! Initially, it was supposed to be a slumber party, but due to the sudden quietus of her grandmother, Maria had to go home and thus, Indah too went home after we finished making all of the cupcakes!
BUT ANYWAYS, we went to the nearest QFC (supermarket) to get our ingredients! At the same time, to move around cause I finished a full slab baby back ribs before that and I am on DIET, remember! Ok moving on....

The process, the process..

Me being super bored cause all of them are looking through other people's photos..

I'm holding onto the green tea flavour while Maria's holding onto the original =) We look sleeepyy because of the flash, and because it was midnight... and I was still eating.
Damn it.

That's basically all!
Toodles~

Happy Birthday Singapore!

2008-08-09T00:31:00.000-07:00

Happy National Day to all Singaporeans and the people who treats Singapore like a home! (refering to myself, DUH)
Sigh, I cannot believe that it has been almost a year since I have left the country. I really, really miss Singapore.

I miss the times when the dancers would be training like crazy for the National Day performance.
I miss the times in school when my friends and I decided to shut it off during class and pissed the teacher off..
I miss the times when I skipped school and thus turned my cell phone off in case my teacher called.
I miss the times I got sick, and then surprised by my sweet friends with self-declared healthy edibles like banana and random chinese medicine.
I miss the times when I was forced to eat food from the food court or hawker centre.
I miss the times when I could take a taxi to school every morning.
I miss the times when my friends and I would fight over trivial stuffs.
I miss the times when we would go down for supper at 3am during sleepovers.
I even miss the times when we would criticize Singaporeans for being whatever we hate at that point of time.
I miss the times when I would quarrel with random taxi drivers because they were being super rude solely due to the fact that I do not have small changes.
I miss the times when I would rent the DVDs and lazed at home with my friends.
I miss the times when my friends and I would cry due to the inadequate results.
I also miss the times at Starbucks where most of us would be doing our studies, and then go to River Valley for supper.
Lastly, I miss my friends, and the people who ever stepped into my life and made it memorable over in Singapore =)

Happy Birthday... Happy happy birthday, Singapore ^^

Hot Import Nights & some thoughts

2008-08-03T15:37:00.018-07:00

For those of you who did not know, I went to the Hot Import Nights, which, I should say (no offence) was pretty boring. Haha, but because Sayna and Chase were performing, it was pretty much an obligation to go there. They were fabulous though!

This is me in a fire-y yellow car!

Shelvy, Alex and I!

Me and AJ..

Hot mama Sayna in pink!

Anyways on the way home, in Shelvy's car, we were talking about how asians we know were better at partying than the people we know in Seattle and stuffs like that. And she told me that in order to have a fun party, (she's implying like her obviously), I need to find fun friends. (as if i don't have fun friends)

I was like, um okkaaaaaaaaayyy..

And she goes on telling me how mean and acquisitive her friends are; evidently proud of it.

Following, I told her that my friends in Singapore, I meant, the partying friends, not my close friends, and I had great times when we party too, but none of us are mean. Materialistic, maybe, but not mean AND proud of it!

And she replied, the "fun" people, that know how to party are these materialistic and mean people. And she goes on blabbering on how I need to get a car in order to be the "cool" people, to have a life.. basically.

For example: her obviously.

PLEASE, I mean maybe she and her friends are the mean, gorgeous
(delusional, if you ask me, her picture is up there), rich kid. However, that does not mean that people who fall out of one of those categories are uninteresting.

We don't have to look far, my childhood friends, well, I'll let you judge but for me, I think they are pretty (and awfully rich), but they don't go around bragging about how flawless and loaded they are what!

Extreme right - Tryphena

Vira & Findy

Second from left - Winner
When I say loaded, I really meant affluent OK!

She told me that she demanded for a car from her Dad at the age of 16, and her dad gladly obliged her wish. Thus, she thinks that I should asked my Dad to get me a car and stop depending on people.

First of all, I am the last child (she's the 1st)! I think it is perfectly justly for me to depend on people.

Secondly, my family has 3 cars in Seattle alone!
So, because of my party life, I should spend approximately $60,000 to add on to my Seattle cars?!

Um I'm sorry to be over-considerate but I think that for the 4 of us, 3 cars is enough!

OK, I am done with my thoughts! Pour me some thoughts regarding this topic!

xoxo--

Keep this from S and P!

2008-08-01T14:12:00.012-07:00

So, this morning I went online, and caught up with Shuling and Peiyi through msn. We webcammed and do silly stuffs... as usual.

Oh, and I told them that I do not know how to take a screen shot!

OBVIOUSLY...

I lied.

CAT FACE!!

In the first picture, Shuling was supposedly the one who took the picture of our cat faces. That's why everybody looks so prepared =)

However, unlike them, even though I have their uhm, not-so-glamourous pictures, I am not going to post them up.

I AM SUCH AN AWESOME FRIEND.

OK actually, if any of you guys want their humiliating pictures, mail me! I'll send those through email! Shhhhhhh..

PS: Do not enlarge the 3rd picture! Rebecca would kill me!

PPS: I know I look hideous here. But I have a very logical explanation here!
Wait, actually I don't, except for the fact that I just woke up.
I think that's logical enough though!

xoxo--

unlucky day

2008-07-29T10:13:00.008-07:00

Of all the unlucky days I had, today's officially declared the worst.

On the scale of 1 to 10, today is probably -2!

And it is only 10.14am!

This morning, I had an appointment with the dental clinic over at Lake City Way at 8am.
Thus, I set the alarm at 7am, because I take an approximate of an hour to get ready. When the alarm rang, I really wanted to smack myself for setting the appointment at 8 cause I was exhausted due to the night before. STILL, since I, Stephanie Juniarta, am so dedicated to what I promised, I indolently forced myself to jump out of the bed and get to the shower.
Somehow, after I finished everything and was ready to leave, my LOVELY BROTHER, whom were supposed to drive me there (and we've been discussing this since last week!), just woke up AND decided to take a quick shower of let's see.. um, 10 hours?!
The receptionist of the dental clinic called me at 8.10am and told me that I was late blah blah, and therefore she had to charge an extra $50 blah blah, and there is no way I could make it if I leave my house right now blah blah.
Basically, I had to pay an extra $50 with a bonus of remorse stuck on my mind.

In addition, since the receptionist told me that there is no way I could make it, my brother went to work. 10 minutes after he left, the receptionist called and told me that I could come right now cause the patient whom had made an appointment at 9 cancelled it. Thus, I decided to save my $50 (HELLO, $50 could buy me a shirt!) and go for it, by the wonderful transportation called BUS. In case some of you do not know, I happened to be really bad at taking public transportation, except cabs of course!

When I went out of the house, it was raining. (Seattle's really cold when it's raining) Thus, I took the car's key and was determined to drive the car... until I slotted the keys in and realized that the Mercedes in USA and Asia is totally different! The wiper, the left/right signal lights.

TSK, I guess bus was my only choice.

So I waited for the bus, whilst holding the striking yellow umbrella with cold wind blowing against my bare legs. Finally, I got up the bus which arrived 2 minutes late!

I WAS SO PROUD OF MYSELF at that point of time because firstly, I took a bus, and secondly, I am going to save $50!

Inexplicably, I GOT LOST!
I mean, I can't believe I got lost despite the directions that I had spent like 15 minutes analyzing at! So I had to wait for another 10 minutes for the other bus to come and take me home while I pathetically called the irked receptionist in the dental clinic and told her that I could not make it.

WHEN I FINALLY ARRIVED HOME, I was horrified to find THIS...
YES, my white pants splattered with ebony spots due to the muds on the ground!!
I nearly punched myself but that would be making the day worse and thus, I resolved to changing my whole attire which greatly saddened me! I mean, I had planned this outfit the day before because I wanted to match my white pants with my new Vans shoes!

I hope the day would get better! PLEASE DO~~

PART 1

2008-07-25T01:56:00.006-07:00

OK, so it is 1.57am and I am still not hitting the bed because firstly, I have too much going on in my mind, and secondly, I am on diet!
You see, if I sleep late, I will definitely wake up later, and thus eat lesser! Haha, geez I AM unhealthy. OK, I promise I am going to jump on my bed after I finished updating my blog.

Anyways, there is this guy in my school, as I have said, he is soooo cute! Oh, and he has a facebook! And I am still pondering whether or not I should add him, or should I just wait till next week and ask, or anticipate for him to ask like a crow whom anticipates the egress of the scarecrow. FYI that means that there is only a 0.00000001% that that would happen! Why would I say that? Well because, he is so ambiguous! Like, on Wednesday, he asked for my phone, and kept holding it, and later on, he took out his phone, and flipped it recurrently. Afterwards, he kept it in his pocket and then took it out again, and placed it on the desk. AND THEN, he looked at my phone and kept fiddling it. OMG just ask for my number already!

OK, so basically, that was the progression between him and I. I know, it's sad. Haha!

Because of this very personal post (and I bet more in the future), I decided to remove my link from everywhere, my friendster and facebook, everywhere! So dearest friends, if you happen to have my link attached to your website, would you please kindly delete it? (even though I doubt that people would want to read my blog after concurrently MIA, BUT just in case!) THANK YOU LOVE YA GOOD NIGHT GOD BLESS YOU!

Bites of Seattle' 08

2008-07-21T23:00:00.005-07:00

OK, so, yesterday, that is, on Sunday, my church friends and I went to the Bites of Seattle to initially, record our shooting for our upcoming welcoming party! And not surprisingly, we kind of failed to do so because of the food temptations. And similarly, my DIET PLAN FAILED because I was tantalized by the delicious display of food in every stall! I am so MAD!! I seriously need to lose like, 5 kilogram!!

OK.

Losing weight is not THE main concern.

Wait.

Actually it is!! (well, at least mine!)

Still, I'm moving on to the bites of Seattle anyways.

So.... We did not get to record our video SUCCESSFULLY because Tommy's car (PS: Tommy's the camera man) got crashed, well, maybe not crashed, that sounded like he had some major car accident. Well, two cars behind his collided into the car behind Tommy's which ultimately resulted in a slight dent in Tommy's car and long story cut short, he was late and therefore, the shooting only went on for like, 2 minutes and then everyone decided that that is enough and continued enjoying the food festival.

OK I need motivation to lose weight..
YOU STUPID FAT ASS STEPHANIE STOP EATING!
Ok done.
Now, till I come back again, enjoy every of your day =)

Zettai kareshi

2008-07-17T15:04:00.006-07:00

OK, so, I just finished watching this drama, Zettai Kareshi (Absolute Boyfriend) and it is seriously awesome! The story revolves around a robot, Tenjo Night, a working woman, Izawa Riko, and the company's chief, Asamoto Soushi.
Tenjo Night was created Kronos Heaven, a company that manufactures robots that are dedicated to love. As Nakajima, creator of o1, also known as Tenjo Night, overheard Riko's failure in love, he decided to use her as an experiment for his new creation of love robot. As the story moves on, there was a love triangle between the three but ultimately, Night develops an unexpected human feelings despite him being a machine. And due to Night's love and sincereness, Riko went against her initial belief and decided to be with Night. However, a robot is not forever is it?
WATCH AND DISCOVER IT YOURSELF!
This is the first drama that stimulates my tear gland OK! Haha, I was holding it back so badly because my sister was in the same room. Haha.

ANYWAYS, my first week of school was pretty much better as I only have 4 classes instead of 5. Also, even though the classes seemed tougher, I am definitely more motivated for school as a 3 out of 4 of my classes have boys, and I meant straight boys. So it's pretty fun cause they spice up the tedious lessons!
For those of you who do not know, I am in Fashion and thus, the only straight guy from my previous classes is Paul and the rest are kind of, um, well, crooked? HA!

OK that was short. Bye!

shoes!

2008-07-09T16:10:00.005-07:00

Ok, pardon my excitement, I finally got my SHOES which I got from, ONLINE! OK, I'm sorry for being over excited. You see, we, well, me, at least, never online shopped before because, I believe, the society, has always been warning me to not online shop as it it very, VERY unsafe. OK, I don't know who told me that, thus I assume that it's the society.
How did I even get that idea anyways?! OK, don't laugh.

HEY, people is part of the society! So I'm partially right.

Moving on..
Anyways, it's on sale at $39.98 and $49.98! I mean, like, 50% off dudes!
I think.

It's both flats in order to get to my school, climbing and balancing up and down the steep slopes are necessary because it's freakingly located at downtown.

OK, the story of how I got these shoes are really funny. It started off with me wanting to buy both nine west and aldo and thus, I went online to look for the perfect shoes.
I placed 4 shoes, 2 from each website to the cart and were still pondering whether or not I should check the items out as my friends and I had planned to go shopping the next day. Thereafter, wise me, Stephanie Juniarta, decided to let the shoes remain in the cart in case I discover cuter shoes along my shopping experience.
The next day though (before I went to the mall), I was horrified to find my nine west cart to be empty and YES, it turned out that someone had already got it before I did! SO, once again, OK, maybe not once again. This time, I went straight to the aldo website, puff a sigh of relief to find my two shoes and check them out straight away. After the prodecures, I nearly punched myself because the checkout defeated the purpose of "shopping for shoes" I was going for in half-hour.
Luckily there were no cute shoes in the mall, HURRAY!
OK, maybe not funny, but it's my accomplishement and I am proud of it.
BE HAPPY FOR ME!!

Alright.
Long life, and I got to go! My sister is hurrying me, zooom!

Fashionably yours,
Stephanie! <3

4th July

2008-07-05T13:21:00.005-07:00

Happy 4th of July everyone!! Well, OK, not exactly the 4th of July right now. FINE, Happy Belated 4th of July everyone!

We had a house party yesterday and it was pretty good! One more reason to love America! They have more holidays than Singapore. OK, I should shut up before I get tackled by any Singaporean. Anyways, PHOTOS!!

Spot some red faces in the pictures? Haha YAH those are the alcoholics!! Ckckck.

Anyways, I'm still having my holidays right now. Thus, I have been sleeping at 3am, waking up at 11pm. I know, I've brought shame to my family and friends. HAHA since I have always been known as the 10pm & 8am lady..
Alrighty, gotta go shower! I'll try to update my blog as often as possible! PROMISE.

18 now

2008-06-13T23:44:00.000-07:00

I think i'm cursed with bad birthdays.

Saturday morning

2008-06-07T09:05:00.003-07:00

Good morning fellow Seattleites and other people in different cities or countries. The weather is as usual cold, the sky nevertheless, bright somehow. I was awaken by the cheerful birds who sang at 4am and was unable to go back to my sleep due to the chillness.
So, life in here is pretty much different than the school I used to attend AKA Henderson Secondary School. I miss British English, I miss the hot weather, and I miss my friends.
Ah, the weather is so nice. I wish I had a nice hot cup of coffee and preferably my own room or my own house. I am still at the Art Institute of Seattle and am in my last week of school. YAY there is going to be a one month break before I start my class =D
I cannot believe that I am one of the youngest students in my school since I am, usually kind of the, ahem, older ones. I cannot attend the Fashion First and I can't drink. greeeaaaaaaaaaaaaaaat.
It's so calming. Zen. Serene. Tranquil. That is Seattle. Until you enter the night life and the hypocrisy of the people. Like Stephen King said, it is often thought that a small town is harmless. Truth is, there are more tension in a small city, than a huge one.
Till then, I will see you again.

Fashionably yours,
Stephanie.

loving Seattle!

2008-05-18T22:21:00.005-07:00

OK, so maybe I have complained a little bit about Seattle. Not here perhaps, but secretly in my heart. Ha! So anyways, I have decided that there are going to be more than just the sleepless city that it is known for. Anyways, I haven't really talked about myself haven't I? For a narcissist like me, it is pretty impressive isn't it?! Haha.

OK guys, I attend the Art Institute of Seattle and am taking Fashion Marketing. Please don't come to me and say that Fashion is effortless. No matter how nice you are, it gives me the urge to puch your nose for saying that. I called 12 Nordstrom (that is, the name of the famous department stores in US) for my last Fashion project and nearly gave up when I've reached the 10th store.

So far, there are two groups of close friends.. The seven holy people (totally NOT) and my awesome church friends! I've also known a couple of people from other departments and still expanding my circle of friends! YAY.

OH! And....... the temperature is getting warmer!

Enough of me? OK! I have to do my multitudinous homeworks anyway! Toodles guys!

Dearest S

2008-04-27T14:19:00.015-07:00

Hello friends =) Life has been pretty good here, aside from the upcoming midterm which I am really nervous about. I've chatted with Peiyi and Shuling and am really happy because I miss Singapore and the friends there so much! Anyways, Shuling is going off to Switzerland for her further studies =( So now, instead of me having to visit only one place, I have travel to freaking TWO places! I told Shuling that I will visit her next year cause my school has got this exchange study programme to London! Honestly, it's kind of an empty promise because the selection of students has not even been carried out. But I'll try =) Even if that means having to score an average GPA of 3.5, which is pretty hard... I'll do it! Cause if I aced, that would mean that the promise will no longer be empty. I miss you Shuling, and the times we've spent!
And the rest of you too! =)
Gotta do my homework! My midterm, which is not even MIDterm consists of at least 5 chapters for each subject.. URGGH!

spring-summer

2008-04-13T08:59:00.007-07:00

Good morning people! I know I haven't been talking about how different my life is, and how much I have to adapt, nor talk about my school.
My bad....
It's just that, everything is sooooo overwhelming and undescribable!
Anyways, I am glad the temperature here had increased cause usually, I'd wrap myself with an oversized coat and walk around like a penguin. DURING SPRING! Why oversized? I have to use my sister's coat because there's no freaking coat sold, and even if there are, those are either ugly... or sadly, unavailable sizes because it's supposedly SPRING!
You know what? It even snowed thrice during SPRING! Ok, I should shut up and be joyful because... It's officially spring-summer!
Why?
This is why..
Anybody who can wear this out in Seattle without freezing would be kissing the sky right now. I don't even know whether that is possible but seriously, FINALLY, it's warmer!! And the warmth is different from Singapore/Indonesia. It is still pleasantly cooling despite the sun =)

AIS's F.S 2008

2008-04-07T10:50:00.016-07:00

Good morning people =) Since I am now in a fashion course, pardon me for my excessive love towards it. OK, today, I am going to talk about the recent innovation in fashion, namely handbags.
So girls! and guys, strangely, would YOU pay a thousand dollars for this?

I mean, seriously. Would you?
This collection was designed by of course, beloved Marc Jacobs, in collaboration with comedian, Richard Prince.
Right, comedian. Maybe Chandler Bing from FRIENDS will have his own fahion line in the future. Ha!
In my opinion though, as weird as it sounds or seems, this outrageous looking bags may be the new hit sometime. So, watch for it people!

Anyway, YES, I am having a fabulous time over here in Seattle. I love my school so much! OK, apart from the fact that each subject took up to 4 hours I really like it!

Anyways, last night s the annual fashion show that my school held and I must say, it was FAB! I LOVE IT!
OK, I know, save those words, just show those pictures.. Jeez..
Not much photos though cause silly Shawn told me that taking pictes were not allowed. So I only started taking them after approximately a quarter of the show was over.
PS: it's OK Shawn honey, you're still great! =)

Anyways, here they are:
Look at the two guys on the rght of the picture! They're my favourite designers! John Akins and Solomon Babani and their 7 deadly sins collection.
My two fashion teachers, Vivian Chester and Joan Kelly =)

Lastly, my narsistic friends and I!!

Free-IQTest.net

2008-03-22T20:33:00.005-07:00

IQ Test Guide!
40 - 54 Severely challenged (Less than 1% of test takers)
55 - 69 Challenged (2.3% of test takers)
70 - 84 Below average
85 - 114 Average (68% of test takers)
115 - 129 Above average
130 - 144 Gifted (2.3% of test takers)
145 - 159 Genius (Less than 1% of test takers)
160 - 175 Extraordinary genius

I stole this from Peiyi's page cause I'm really borrrreeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeed! To elaborate how bored I am, I was watching Gossip Girl for the second time whilst doing the test. Haha.

Anyways, I finally went to the ice rink in Seattle; Highland Ice Arena!

XOXO--

Target's great!

2008-03-18T09:11:00.008-07:00

Good morning to the people who are reading this post, I am finally here to fill my pathetic time of total boredom.
Now before I start my embarrassing story (still planning to keep the memory despite humiliation), I'm proud to announce that I'm ready to STAND IN FRONT OF THE CAMERA (albeit eye-bags). That is because I haven't been sleeping well due to jet lags! OK seriously, I don't think anyone actually cares about all these complaints so let's move on.
Wait wait, before that....
MICHELLE and I in front of the Merry Go Round that is more like a thriller to me cause it's realy fast but OK, skipping.

Yesterday, I went to Target with my mom and we um, lost each other which was truly a catastrophe because I walked around the HUGE SUPERmarket (2 storeys too!) for whopping 5 rounds or maybe more, but I like the number 5 so let's just stick to 5. Meanwhile, my mom was also looking for me, except that I was looking harder because she WENT HOME ahead of me while ME, was still left looking for her desperately.
Due to the futile search, I finally resorted to the last plan; getting help from the target employees.

It was so funny cause the first thing I said to Robert (one of the employees) was "Excuse me, I need your help. I kinda lost someone in this SUPERmarket."
He widened his eyes and STARED at me. I'm guessing that he's too shocked to say anything.
Then I continued, "she's like pretty small, and is wearing a purple sweater, and pink pants... *pausing for a while* I think."
And again he, still in a shock state replied: "what!?"
Me, realizing that I sound too nonchalant replied, "yeah that's what she wore, I'm sure."

So anyway, Robert called Janice (she's from Singapore btw...! but American.) and told her that I may be losing a kid.
And from the tense situtation, I voiced out "um actually, she's my mom and she doesn't really speak english if you asked me."
HAHAHA can you imagine their reaction?! They were like, totally stupefied for 5 seconds before they started taking actions.

That's roughly how it goes and I feel so bad, till now. Simply because in actual fact, despite mine and the employees' worries, my mom was perfectly fine, snuggling at home! Still I'm freaking thankful!! The service in Seattle is really really unbelievably good!!

I love you'al!
XOXO--

arrived

2008-03-15T15:17:00.003-07:00

Good afternoon everyone =) I'm sorry for not informing some of you guys that I've reached Seattle. Well, I've reached! Haha. Still suffering from a tad jet lag but aside from that, and the super cold weather, it's PREEEEETTY good.

I swear I LOVE it here! Well, so far... as in three days. Haha! The internet, especially, is effing FAST! I swear whilst typing these, my eyes twinkled.
Plus, OK, since Hollister, Abercrombie and Forever21 are commonly found here, shopping over here is made so EASY!! I mean, usually in Singapore, despite me craving over these clothes online, I can never get them easily because well, they don't have the outlets for these stores. Well, maybe Forever21, but that's like in Orchard, where wearing capris and tees is equivalent to social suicide. Whereas, in Indonesia, I can't even connect to the website -_-

So far though, I only went to Michelle's High School to see her choir event and Target. So, I've got nothing much to say, YET.

And oh, pictures will be up sooner or later. Well, probably later because I just smoothed my hair. OK, that doesn't sound right. As in, I went for smoothing and thus, hair's flat and therefore, I'm currently camera shy =pp (SHUL, your fav. word!)

Anyways, my mom bought us a house near Matthews Beach here! =D
It is not very grand nor huge, but I'm still really happy cause my whole family's gonna be there =)
We're moving in at the end of April, *whine* I hate moving houses.....! It's troublesome, with capital T.

Got to goooooooo~~
XOXO--

DIET, with all capital letters

2008-03-01T07:25:00.011-08:00

Hello readers, must be glad that I'm updating "regularly". Anyways, since my cousin left, not only have I been refraining myself from luscious food, I've been skating really vigorously (which thus led to the contusion on my left knee) just to lose bloody 8 pounds! I know, vigorously is not a good word, let's just say, enthusiastically.
AND now, sadly, I have to announce that it has all gone to waste because I, Stephanie Juniarta, gluttonously gormandize the food at my cousins' wedding. OK, damn, now I made myself sound unglamorous. To justify my statement, I was exaggerating.
My family (Dad's side)! I'm the tiny little dot at the extreme right of the picture. OK, not exactly what you call tiny nor dot but bah, moving on.

You know what? I know it's February, but I realized that I haven't actually made my new year resolution which of course, I am going to do, which includes naturally, losing 8 pounds but argh! let's drop this subject.
OK, I can't.
Why lose weight, you ask?
Nixem's words kept playing over and over again in my mind. "It's a harsh world."
And you wanna know why? Because if you aren't pretty - includes SLIM - then, it is pretty difficult to fit into this society. I don't mean the working or education world. I mean, the real society where appearance is almost number one. Damn right?! I wish fat would become the new 'IN'.

ARGGGGH! I miss my cousin! How could you leave me, Vinsy!? I am the only who usually leave, while you're left miserably. Grrrrrr! Anyhow, I was bored the other day, and so, I made this =)
PS, any of you with facebook? Add me! For people who knows me, duh.
Email: xoticreverie@gmail.com
NO HATE MAILS PLEASE. Ha! Just kidding. How could anyone hate me? I am a peace-lover! *nervous laughter*
OK, In case you decided to send me one after the brazen statement above, I was only kidding! =p

Singkawang

2008-02-24T18:59:00.002-08:00

What do you do when you're a regular blogger, yet happened to be experiencing the FASTEST internet ever? Seriously the internet here is ridiculous! It took me like, 20 minutes just to get to the dashboard of blogger's homepage. And it is already fortunate because sometimes, the page cannot load at all.
And um, it just disconnected.

*interlude*

OK, reconnected!
Anyways, we went to Kalimantan, Singkawang, on the 18th till the 21st of February to see the annually Chap Goh Meh. By we I mean, Vinsy, Shuling and I. Well, with parents too, but um, we are usually separated from them, so yeah, they're not really counted. OK dammit! I shall be filial. Also um along with us... my parents and Vinsy's parents.
Chap Goh Meh is a festival, which is believed to be, well, I don't know. In my opinion, and self-made definition though, it is a festival where people get possessed by spirits and impale themselves and sit on knives and worship "Gods" with a kind of uncanny voodoo dolls.
Don't get me? No worries, I have photos.
They always say a picture says a thousand words, mine would be one, freakish.
But aside from all these peculiar happenings. We, youthful teenagers DID enjoy many things there! One of them would be, sitting at the back of a lorry =)
Also, the foods there are really really heavenly. And according to Mommy, the foods are healthy as neither preservatives nor hormones are introduced as the stalls are their own little businesses.
Also, the coffees! Yummy...the coffees with condensed milk AKA sweetened latte are really traditional and unbelievably good! And it only costs 600 Rupiah which is equivalent to approximately US$0.06.
Well, I'm really sorry for not updating it for the past few, OK maybe not few, past many days. Anyways, my cousin, Vinsy is going back to Beijing tomorrow while Shuling's returning to Singapore the day after. =( Let's all pray that they would arrive there safe and sound on those 2 days. For now, me got to go =D
XOXO-

eerie

2008-02-04T04:56:00.001-08:00

Dear readers, have you all ever had creepy encounters? OK, actually if you do, you don't really have to tell me because I have a gut that's as small as a hamster, so, it's kinda like a rhetorical question.
Anyway, on the 2nd of February, I stayed over at Vin's house as it was too late for me to go back to my own house. It was pretty much fine until late at night, whilst Vin and I were watching movie. All of a sudden, Beethoven's fur elise tune sounded. But this was fine as when I freaked out, Vin casually remarked that it was just a kind of tocsin to alert the maids that our grandparents are in need.
The next day, when I told my mom about how funky our grandparents' room is, she told me about Grandpa.
*pause* OK my heart is beating really fast while typing this as it's now kinda night time. This is the reason why I didn't write this yesterday and the day before! It was just too late to write about all these. Bah I'll just show you all a photo of us first.
From left to right, Shania, me, Vinna and Vin.
OK, I'm all calmed down.
As I was saying, every single night one of these days, Grandpa would see a person (sometimes more), wearing all white, both bottom and top, searching the contents of his wardrobe. He mentioned that they are really tall and always come when he's asleep. And the thing is, my grandma, who's in the same room as my grandpa, saw nobody. Not only that, when Vin's mom heard all the commotion, she went down to check it out and Grandpa, literally screamed angrily whilst pointing to the wardrobe that three men were digging his wardrobe and were most probably trying to steal his valuables.
IT'S FREAKING SCARY CAN?! JESUSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS!
I mean, can you actually imagine, while you're asleep, the person beside you wakes you up and told you they saw someone whom you can't see?!
Lord God, please protect my family members and their houses. Amen.

it's not goodbye

2008-01-28T19:51:00.001-08:00

Hello people! Finally I'm back in Indonesia. For those of you who are oblivious, I was over in Singapore from the 20th till the 28th of January. The whole trip consisted of basically the collection of O'level result, shopping and meeting of friends.
The last day, AKA 28th January'08 was the most memorable though. It can be said as an unfortunate event as I missed my plane due to the late arrival to the departure gate. I really panicked because in my whole life, I'VE NEVER MISSED A PLANE. Then again, who often miss flights right? But then, the whole situation really freaked me out and it would have seemed really unlucky and depressing if only I was alone. But I wasn't.
I had a bunch of great buddies whom waited for an excruciatingly long time for me to come back from the bummer. Shuling and Cindy then helped me purchase another ticket for the next flight which departed one and a half hour after the missed flight and thus, we had an extra hour to spend together. This time though, we gathered RIGHT OUTSIDE the gate to be extra safe =)

It is such a blessing to know that there are people, so many more people who love you and are willing to sacrifice for you! I am really fortunate to have friends like them, who are willing to take off days from work just to accompany this ordinary friend of yours.

Some who are willing to sacrifice night sleeps despite early rise for school the next day.
Friends like her who was willing to stay overnight upon sudden request and made the extra effort to make a precious album.
Friends like them who really listen. (RED CIRCLE)
Friends like them who never fail to cheer me up with their "humongous" eyes.(GREEN CIRCLE)
And many many other people whom have stepped into my life and made it colourful.

No words can express my overwhelming feelings and endless gratitude.
To end this entry, I shall say "Life is truly beautiful, when you're wise enough to see."

From the 28th January onwards, it will be difficult to see all of your faces! All I have are the photos and albums I got from all of you. Thank you.
Please don't forget me, my friends..
Yeah... friends indeed =)
PS, I love you.

happy birthday Dad

2008-01-13T18:04:00.000-08:00

I'm really pissed with the internet in Indonesia! Arghh, I'll try to upload the video for the previous post as soon as possible OK? Sorry!

Anyway, yesterday was Daddy's actual birthday. His identity card states September because well, let's just say Indonesia's complicated. Anyway, Sharon and I planned the whole surprise whilst the rest of the kids arranged it =) They're really sweet people!

As for today, I went for my ice skating lesson! Everything was fine until I FELL DOWN! Wkaka. I mean, falling down is pretty much OK for me. In fact, I really like the sensation of falling on ice now! *clears throat* OK, got carried away, back to topic. As I fell, my beautiful, newly bought stocking tore.
YEA, torn and revealed a hideous cast. And I had to walk for the rest of the day, IN A MALL, looking like that. Ha! Thank God I know no one (except my skating friends who totally understand).

Leehom

2008-01-12T07:13:00.000-08:00

GUYS! I had my first driving lesson yesterday!! I mean, I feel so, ADULT right now. Well actually, in Indonesia, anybody can drive. Seriously. Still, I'm following the legal system and thus really satisfied!
Despite me stalling twice (stall's like drivers' language, YAY!), my instructor said I'm a really fast learner! Haha, like FINALLY. In Singapore, smarty-pants like E*cough*1*cough*guys* would just call you dense just because they think they're in the ONE class.
Anyway, I went to the ONE and ONLY Wang Lee Hong's concert yesterday!! *scream* I know! I mean, he's like, multi-instrumentally talented! Before that though, there were 4 Indonesian idols performing and man, they're really GREAT! I mean, despite the retarded over-obsessive and irritating fans' disturbance, it was so stupendous that I can't help but still smile.
Then Wang Lee Hong came. You know what's frustrating?! I've already prepared my camera, gripping, just to capture the supposedly beautiful scene when he sings my all time favourite song, "Forever Love". On the contrary, when he started to sing that song, he stepped down the stage, thus making it harder for me to capture. And if that's not bad enough, monomaniacal fans started to run from the back to the front, blocking MY VIEW. When that happened, ladies and gentlemen, naturally, people in front of me started to stand up too because their view were blocked. HELLO, considerate audience HERE can't see a thing!!
*swipe anger*
SHULING IS COMING TO INDONESIA!! v^.^v^.^v^.^v

Travel diary (Tzu Ching International Camp)

2008-01-07T18:07:00.001-08:00

Good Morning readers! I know, like finally right?! Gosh.. So yeah, I'm sorry I did not update for a whopping long time. I mean, it's camp.. And camps with high-technology just doesn't sound like a camp.
Anyway, since my itchy hands and brain couldn't resist writing entries, I kept a journal (with regular updates) during the camp. Thanks for coming to my blog despite my absence!

20th Dec'07:
Dear future diary, I've reached Taiwan and I SERIOUSLY CANNOT BELIEVE I LET MY PARENTS TALKED ME INTO THIS CAMP!
21st Dec'07:
Delightful fresh air. Check! Slept on wooden floor (ouch). Check! Hate tying plaits. Check check check!!Just look at the dark circles. It says, sleepless nights. Yeah, that's our room by the way.
22nd Dec'07:
Dear travel diary, I've always thought that 6am was excruciatingly early and torturing until now. I had to crawl out at 4am and FOLD my "bed" (by bed I mean 2 sheets of blanket) and plait my almost-reaching-butt hair.
23rd&24th Dec'07:
It's funny that one minute you're starving and upon seeing the food, the appetite just goes away, vanished. I was a vegetarian for 2 weeks!
25th Dec'07:
Merry(not) Christmas! Happy birthday Jesus. I love you =)
26th Dec'07:
I mopped - solely with rags - and plucked weeds! I know, right!
27th Dec'07:
Today is the last day of the Tzu Ching International Camp.I'll miss you guys =)
28th-30th Dec'07:
The three days in Jing She, Hua Lian were really tedious. Well, except for the last day when Xue Zhang brought us out illegally. My oh my, now I know how a captured bird feels once set free.
31st Dec'07:
101 tower in Taipei is really crowded due to the New Year celebration. Multitudinous people, beautiful embellishments, wild fireworks. Yeah, everything occurring while we're stuck in the dorm!We passed by 101 tower the day after though. The best Shi Bo ever, 2 sunshines (they crack me up) and myself.
1st Jan'08:
It's now 2008! Da Ai Tv's 10th birthday! We performed and appeared on TV with my eyebrows as wild as amazon =(
2nd Jan'08:
We went to the recycling center today.It's amazing to what you can do with recycled items =)
3rd&4th Jan'08:
Finally free! Camp's over! Life's back!5th&6th Jan'08:
Back to Singapore for 2 days to attend Danny & Tina's wedding. You know what? The president (SR Nathan) and his wife, Prime minister (Lee Hsien Long) and his wife, and dozens of other ministers are in the same room as me! Attending the same wedding! Aww, I wanted to seriously ran up and take a picture with them and screamed to Mrs President "Hey mrs president! Remember you came to my school before?!". But that is equivalent to 'social suicide+unglamorous+shame to Uncle Tan's family.' So I let it pass.
7th Jan'08:
Met up with my dearest darling lovers! Shul, Peiyi, Jess etc. I'll see you guys in 2 weeks time, again! LOVE YOU'AL.

*end of travel diary*
Well, before all of your heads spin, I'd better make a move. It's good to be back anyway. Home, is always the sweetest ^^

Asian Idol

2007-12-16T06:30:00.000-08:00

Readers readers! Did you guys catch the Asian Idol?? Haha. It's totally cool, I swear! In my opinion, not to be biased or anything, I think that many Indonesians have really great voice. I mean if you watch the Indonesians' reality singing competition, you'll be really impressed with their voices!
No worries if you did not catch the show, this is a clip of their songs =)

It's like Miss Universe! Everybody from different countries, except... they don't wear bikinis of course. This is a clip of the Indonesian Idol, Mike, singing "I believe I can Fly".

I voted for Indonesian and Malaysian Idol cause that Malaysian Idol has got a voice of a rubber band. She's like aaaaaaahh *5 minutes later* stil aaaaaaaah-ing.
Anyway, I am going off to Taiwan on the 20th December for the Tzu Qing International Camp 2007. And YES, the camp that my mom had forced me to join. No wait, she didn't even force, she just registered me before asking for my permission. I would be so happy if my Christmas and New Year were celebrated with my friends and family. That's why I'm so mad now because it would be celebrated in Taiwan, in a temple! *Scoff*
Oh anyway, as requested, this is an interior of my house in Jakarta. The exterior was not taken as I forgot to take it this morning. SORRY =) What happened was, I woke up at 9.30am and rushed into the car at 9.45am for my church. That's like, the fastest record of preparation time I've ever taken. Haha! Usually, I need like an hour, which is pretty normal for a girl, I think. =D
The winner of the Asian Idol is Hady Mirza =) OK apart from the fact that his voice was....... i'm speechless, he's pretty good-looking, so I don't mind. Haha. Besides, great singers wouldn't be famous without their fans. BUT, Mike's voice is still the greatest!

What turns you on and off?

2007-12-12T08:28:00.001-08:00

Marla sent me this really cute thing - which is totally cute of course, or else it wouldn't be here. It's not really an item though, it's like a quiz for people who are..
No 1: flirtatious
No 2: bored
Of course I belong to the No 2 kind of people, I'm conservative... undoubtedly nowhere near coquettish. Ha.

WHAT TURNS YOU ON & OFF

They say it's the heart that counts, but first impression is important too. List 3 things that turns you on & off in the opposite gender:

YOU SAY...
1. Height - tall! By tall I mean, above 175cm. So that I can wear a three-inch heels and still feel PLEASANTLY short-ER when standing beside him.

2. Dark haired. For some reason, I prefer dark-haired to light-haired guys. They just appear more.. you know, like um, less gay? NO OFFENSE! Personal preference they say. =D

3. Virtually flawless. Seriously! I mean, when you stare at him, *sigh* like a living angel. Provided he's good looking of course.

YOU DON'T SAY...
1. Guys in tight-wear. (except ballerinas) Totally ewww! Especially guys who wear bright RED/YELLOW skinny jeans which wraps their legs tightly. PLEASE, spare a thought for us, the non-fashion victims.

2. Untreated skin. As said, no acne! No dry skins, uncountable pimples and blotch of hideous reds. I mean, how can you face someone like that for more than 3 days?

3. Extremely long hair. So long for what?! You are not competing who's hair is longer with girls aren't you?

Of course, their personality and abilities count. That's what makes guys more interesting. List 3 things which lies in their hearts & minds that turn you on and off.

YOU SAY...
1. UNDERSTANDING & KIND! Like when you're late, instead of bellowing or pulling a long face he'd SMILE and say, "hon, I've waited for you for soooo long," humorously.

2. Decently hilarious. A guy who has great sense of humour, without being obnoxious definitely scores point!

3. Multi-talented! For example, guys who can play the piano, drums, sing, ICE HOCKEY, dance, kill annoying PESTS gracefully... perfect!

YOU DON'T SAY...
1. Petty. HELLO, are you or am I the girl? Girls are supposed to be the spoilt ones, not the guys. =p

2. Rude. This apply to both genders actually. Rude people seriously ticks me off. You might as well jump down before I cruelly kill you.

3. Dirty! Haha ewwww. scruffy, fine, but dirty?! *shrieks*

**********************************************************************

By the way, I changed my hair parting to reveal my "trademark" =p
You know, when you miss someone, and that someone is listening a song you owned, listen to that song. Haha! Just kidding, don't do that. You'll miss them more =(
IMU Vin. And please cut your hair cause your current hairstyle gives me the urge to buy a shaver.

Jakarta

2007-12-11T06:50:00.000-08:00

I ought to really kill the internet connections in Indonesia if only it were a living thing. SO SLOW, can't upload picture in less than 10 minutes, have to reconnect at least twice for it to stabilize!

Oh you know what by the way? On Monday, when I went for my skating practice, I saw this hockey guy. He is SO CUTE! Plus, he plays hockey, Ice Hockey. *sigh* What could be better? I mean, hockey guys are so cool. Apart from the fact that they ruin the ice surface, of course.
These two are my little friends who kept insisting that I should fall and land on my butt. They claimed that it reduces the fear of falling. I don't think so though. One good example would be Peiyi. She fell and landed with a SPLIT and is still afraid of ice skating. (oops, sorry you mei! secret exposed =p) It's really adorable, you guys should see her skate, or maybe coach her or something. =p

Jakarta, oh Jakarta, the capital city of Indonesia. Which part of it ought to be this advertised beautiful city? It is indeed beautiful at times... like the one below.
Sometimes though, it's frustrating. How people themselves destroy their own country and then blamed others.
Due to a whole night's rain, it flooded for approximately half a meter in this area...
and I think I know why.Eutrophication + Pollution, perfect combination!

By the way, speaking of ice skating before these disturbing pollutions, what happened to innocent kids nowadays?!
The other day, my 8-year old cousin and I went skating with the intention of teaching her some techniques. I was damn shocked when she told me, "Jie, those guys are staring at you," then she continued by saying, "I saw the guy talking about you, and after that his friend pushed his head as if telling him to behave."
I was like, DANG. I mean, she's like EIGHT years-old. When I was eight I don't even observe guys nor interpret their behaviour! All I know was I tried to wear glasses just to impress my crush, but let's not get to there.
Tsk tsk tsk.
Kids nowadays...
You guys should observe your younger whoever, they might surprise you with their... you know. I don't even know what to call it. Ha!
Ciao~

easily touched?

2007-12-06T06:03:00.000-08:00

Hello readers! Which one of you guys here are tired of being happy? Ha. =)
WARNING: Emotional people may want to stay away.

Today shall be declared (for me) Poignant Day.

Why?

Well, if you like reading story books, and can't get enough of pets, I seriously recommend this book.
I, Stephanie Juniarta, am like the walking tin, - except that I'm softer of course - like the one in "The Wizard of OZ", heart of stone. I never cry when reading a book, or even in cinemas or TV series. Seriously, I don't usually cry unless someone hurt me emotionally.
There was this time when I fell of a scooter and scraped my elbow and knee until my flesh was clearly visible, and I did not shed a single tear. Of course, I whined, howl, but no tears.
This book however, like OMG, I was sobbing towards the end.

The story is about an autistic boy whose world was unlocked by this dog. Do you know? People who are autistic are usually ignorant to the people around him/her. However, this dog managed to emerge into his world and even taught him sensitive nature such as empathy. Initially, he wasn't even able to distinguish between joy and sorrow.

Have you ever had a pet? Especially dogs. They are incredible creatures. I remember once, when my sister and I had a fight. When I cried, my dog, Brownie, came to me and gave a look of worry, as if he understood my feelings.

Unfortunately, like this story, he left us. The way the author wrote the book, arggh! you guys got to grab this book and give it a shot! =)

Secondly, I am watching this show "Supermama Seleb Show", where celebrities (Indonesians, of course), together with their mom perform songs. There was this group who sang the song "AYAH". Ayah means father in Indonesian.
Here goes the lyric:

Untuk ayah tercinta
(To my dearest father)
Aku ingin bernyanyi
(I want to sing)
Walau airmata di pipiku
(Despite the tears on my cheek(s))
Ayah dengarkanlah
(Father, listen)
Aku ingin berjumpa
(I want to see you)
Walau hanya dalam mimpi
(Even if it was only in a dream)

And if you bothered to guess, yes, his father (and husband to the Mom) had passed away. While they were singing, the Mom cried halfway while the son was prominently holding back tears.

I did not cry, but it was so heart-rending that many of the audiences cried along. Sorry for the random photo, that is the only video/mp3 clip I could find =/

Bah, life in Indonesia has been pretty fine! Jessica is back in Indonesia but I can't even get to contact her. Jejessss! CONTACT ME!
I'm currently like a tourist here, with cameras everywhere =D
I am going to show all of you lucky readers, the insight of Jakarta.

Anyway, to sum up the Emotional night, here's a poignant bedtime story. It was my last practice essay I had before I sat for my English Paper.
THE LAST GOODBYE

It was the twelfth of June, another mundane Sunday when "work" was totally out of my mind. As I sat on the couch, munching on my favourite chips, laughing whilst watching "FRIENDS" for the seventh time, the phone rang unexpectedly. After all, it was eight in the morning; on a Sunday morning. Reluctantly, I dragged my feet and picked up the phone.
"Hello, may I speak to Miss Stephanie please?" came a husky voice of a female.
After the long and unpleasant conversation, I put down the phone. She, the nurse from Greenwich Hospital just called and informed me that my mom had been suffering from leukaemia. Suddenly, Joey from "FRIENDS" did not seem funny.
My mom was never a Mom to our family. She was just a mother, whom had given birth to me, and a wife, to many men. She beat me when I refused to wash the dishes, she reprimanded each and every one of us in the family when we disobeyed her. There was never a day when my half-siblings and I got spared. That is, until 22nd February'1997. I never forget this date because that was the day she left us for another man, the day she promised us a better life in the future, and the day, we last saw her. The unforgivable goodbye.
As i arrived at the given hospital room number, I hesitated as millions of thoughts raced through my mind. Have all my other siblings visited her? Should I leave or proceed in?
Abruptly, the door opened. A sprucely dressed nurse, seemingly in her forties came out. She scrutinized me as i shrank back in fear of her piercing eyes. "Are you Stephanie?" she asked me dubiously.
She grasped the crook of my hand as soon as i nodded in agreement, and brought me to where my mom was lying at. My heart sank as I saw her frail figure. She was different from the woman that I loathed. The creases at the corner of her eyes had deepened, and her face was hollowed out from her weight loss. Her thick long hair had been stripped away away by the drugs that were meant to make her well. I moved closer as my leery eyes met her weak hazel eyes.
"Sorry," she muttered under her breath as tears layered her eyes.
"It's okay," I replied, "It's okay Mom."
We did not say much as she was too sick to talk. However, I accompanied her until Jenny, the nurse, acquainted that the visiting time was over.
"I will see you tomorrow, Mom," I whispered as i held her vulnerable hands.
She smiled and gestured me to make a move.
Mom died the next day, at two in the morning. Jenny informed me on her death and thanked me for making a visit the day before. She believed my mother left in peace after obtaining my forgiveness.
It was the fourteenth of June, another cloudy Tuesday when "work" was back on my mind. It was also the day my mom's friends and relatives came in black, including my half-siblings and I, and bid her a permanent farewell.

occupying 5 months

2007-12-02T21:44:00.000-08:00

Good afternoon lovers & haters! YES, I know, I haven't been blogging for an extremely long time. The internet here is unbelievable I tell you! Every 20 minutes, it will disconnect and interrupt my acts.
I can't believe I used to tap my fingers whenever the internet in USA or Singapore is a weeny bit slow.

First of all, I want to thank these people whom made my plane journey pleasant.
By pleasant, I mean, you know, not alone during the interminable departure.
Also, thanks for the surprise guys! At first Michelle and Jessica said they couldn't make it.
Then whilst in the Fish n Co., they popped out - with the help of the mongmongs aka Shuling & Peiyi - and brought SUPER STRONG SMELLING pink roses! =)

Secondly, Indonesia is pretty much fine =) I took Ice Skating and Dancing classes to occupy my time, and because my body is as stiff as a board. Now though, it's aching as if I had just auditioned for Olympics 2008, thus the inactive day spent at home.
My demanding Mom, on the other hand, "volunteered" (by volunteered I mean forced) me to assist the charity organization she's helping with to occupy not hers, but MY time.

Lastly, I'm doing great you guys, thanks for asking via e-mail, tagboards and sms-es =D
My adorable cousin says HI =)

5 excitements in Indonesia

2007-11-18T20:53:00.000-08:00

Okay, who thinks that the guy in vest aka Drake Bell is hot in this video?!

*sigh* HE IS SO HOT. The way he held the mic, OK, maybe not the mic. The fish net thing that filters his voice, or whatever.

OK, crush's over.

So, it's my last day in Singapore! I'm unwillingly going back to Indonesia in 15 hours! "Hurray"
I'm gonna miss all of my friends!
Yes, Jessica and Michelle.
Lolla and Sinta; church friends.
Fresh peeled oranges aka Peiyi and Shuling.
Netballers and *ahem* ex-netballers.

OK, by friends I mean, really good friends.

Anyway, Indonesia! It's not going to be so bad after all.. Right?

Thus, to assure myself, optimistic me decided to write a list of sanguine activities and lavishness that I'm going to indulge in.

1. Maid to help me clean my wardrobe, wash the dishes, mop the floor, cook breakfast, lunch, dinner, yak yak yak. In short ALL house chores.
In Singapore, even the most convenient Magic Clean can't make me clean the house regularly. That is why it is called house chores/work, not house sensuality.

2. Chauffeurs to drive me anywhere. OK, aside from the fact that traveling short distances take 2 hours, burning fury due to cab-snatchers is totally out of my life! Wheee! 3 hours of my life taken for journeys~ What could be better than testing out your patience limit?

3. My parents' far relatives and friends (middle-aged strangers to be specific) to talk to. Rather than spending my time in front of the computer screen and TV, I get to listen to their experiences and braggadocio of their sons/daughters whom I've never even seen. Great! at least for my eyes, even though my ears would bleed.

4. Relatives to talk to rather than talking to myself in front of the mirrors. I mean, besides talking, it'd improve my acting skills too! With my mother's side, I had to act like a good role model and patient adult. With my Dad's, I had to act like I my ears were empty and pretend I didn't hear any patronization. Perfect!

5. A totally big house to shed some pounds! How could I forget my house? It took me half a minute and part of my stamina just to pick up the phone when my maid is not available.

OK, seriously, I am afraid of going back.

As simple as that but yeah, I am insecure.
I am afraid the Indonesians wouldn't like me because I am a Chinese-Indo. I am afraid by staying there too long, my parents would get sick of me and start quarreling every single day. Lastly, I am worrying because I'm afraid I would stay there for so long that my friends and I would forget one another.

But then again, I believe in us! I think I've overcome the fear because I have faith in them, and myself =) It's the law of attraction! I want to attract good things in my life. As such, I would have to change my perspective on the things I see.

So every readers out there, I hope you all have a fantastic holidays! Enjoy life to the fullest while you can!

PS: Always look at the BRIGHTEST side of situation ^^

My next entry will not be in Singapore! *gleaming with excitement*

Happy Birthday Betsy

2007-11-17T18:59:00.000-08:00

Good morning everyone! It's a sunny (probably too bright) day today =)
PS: Don't expect prima donna pictures cause some pictures were taken last night (or morning if you'd prefer it to be called that), after a barbecue.
Anyway, Happy Birthday Bets! Yesterday, the eight of us had a barbecue in my condominium for Betsy's birthday! That barbecue is actually carried out for her birthday, which of course, she is oblivious of. Towards midnight, Amanda, Jessica, Michelle and I took the leftovers to my house, planning to take the cake, along the way. Suddenly, Sihui shrieked and ran towards us and joined us. She, out of panic, blabbered that the cake was upstairs in front of Betsy. Ha! Her reaction was SUPER funny.

Then we surreptitiously went down and positioned the cake while waiting for the rest's arrival. As Betsy walked towards us, we lighted the birthday cake and sang the birthday song en masse.

Speaking of French, yesterday there was this French family barbecuing at the other pit. And then there were two French boys goofing around the stairs. Out of curiosity, I asked them whether they were French (in English). They gave me that huh? look. OK, so I asked (in French) of whether they could speak English. He answered yes. Still, he seemed clueless when Jessica talked to him. So forget it, Jessica and I walked up to our pit, when I turned around, he stuck out his tongue and spoke "ayurkhurgfk". (Note: This is gibberish cause that's what it sounded to me.) Dammit, I didn't understand what he said. I was defeated by a little boy! Arggh.. I promise I will ace in French class, come back and blabber teasing words (in French) to him. Hohoho.
I never taught that we would be this close people. I used to think they are i'm-a-diva people, but no. In fact, I think they are just like us, like all human beings. Haha =) But I'm glad all of us are closer 'cause last night was fabulous! And the girly conversation topics we made, oooh! Don't tell anyone, just between the eight of us =)

By the way, in two days time, I am going back to Indonesia because my passport is expiring. Ha! I really don't want to go but if I don't, I will be an illegal immigrant here ;p
I will miss you guys! Every of my friends who gave me so much, who contribute to my comfort in life and who spent REALLY late nights with me :p

Toodles~

Peiyi's birthday and it's eve

2007-11-14T06:48:00.000-08:00

Hello loyal readers and haters. I'm sorry for not blogging yesterday as I had the worst migraine ever! It's so bad that when you stand (from sitting position), it felt as if your brain had shifted by an inch, causing unbearable pain. And in my opinion, it was caused by the.....

G-MAX GX 5 at Clarke Quay!
That ride was crazy! Peimun, Shuling and I decided to give it a try after seeing three seemingly girly girls enjoying that ride, leaving the cowards, Eleanor and Peiyi =p
After I rode that thing, BOY oh boy, let's just say Peiyi and Eleanor made the right choice. Nope, not cowards, call them miss(es)-did-the-right-thing.
That ride was revolting, like a slingshot, you're being thrown up at speed 200km/h at a height that god knows what - let's just say REALLY tall - and then fall down and jounce back up. It felt like superman, except superman has power and can control it while we, felt like helpless ordinary human being, hung up at a terribly height.

It was quite an experience though!

Before us were two male caucasians. When I heard them screamed, I regretted purchasing the exorbitantly charged ticket (and scary ride) but was too late. I convinced myself that they yelled for fun and thus asked them about the ride.
Stephanie: "How was it, you guys?"
Caucasian 1: "It was really good,"
Caucasian 2: "Yeah really great!"
Stephanie: "Yeah, I heard you guys screamed *chuckling*"
Both pointing at each other: "It was him."
Haha. Perhaps you guys should try it sometime! When you're loaded, oh and equipped with student pass. The price is slightly lower for students.
As for today, HAPPY BIRTHDAY PEIYI!
I lied to her about not being able to make it for her birthday! At first it was true as I felt bad, leaving my Dad all alone at home. However, as I heard from Eleanor that Peiyi's a little upset that some of us can't make it, I decided to do a little surprise for my dear Billy!!

I ran all the way to Great World's - afraid of being late and spotted in case they've reached - Say Cheezecake to order a birthday cake from Steven the efficient manager. He managed to get the fabulous heart-shaped cake ready in less than 20 minutes!

After I bought the flowers, I, Stephanie Juniarta, unglamorously (with bare knees on floor) hid behind the counter to wait for their (Peiyi, Shul & Peimun) SUPER LONG arrival. Brilliant Eleanor managed to get Peiyi to sit facing the window, not the counter. The moment she sat, Steven, with the cake, me, with the bouquet of flowers, and the rest sang her a birthday song which sent couples' sinister stares at our table. We probably disturbed their lovey dovey conversation but hey, the manager's with me okay! Ha =)
I hope you had a pleasant surprise Billy! XOXO

Now flamers,

2007-11-12T07:17:00.000-08:00

It's amazing how some people live their life isn't it? To broad over something that was like.. *phew* really LONG.

Yeah yeah, I'm a coward, I deleted your tags. I'm such a coward that my name and face is revealed while your name is a P? Gosh, modern Mommy sure knows how to give names.

It seems like the 6th November post, (the one done irrationally) had caused major indignation to some people. No wait, ONE people. As I've said, this is my blog, and I don't think I need to explain to every single reader what I wrote in my everyday life. ESPECIALLY, when it is done recklessly.

I know that things shouldn't have been done due to overwhelming emotion. But hey, I'm a girl, and girls are hoooooooooooooo, BAD at controlling their emotions at certain times.

Firstly, I would like to clarify that I DID NOT scold the girls. Scold means raved at them, which I obviously did not do. I was ticked off by them, and I did not scold, I expressed my emotion, not reprimand.

Secondly, I apologised to Shuling online because I really love her. (I love Jessica too) I want my blog to stay with me, really STAY even until I have a family. Because I want to remind myself, and not forget who I was, or who I am in the future. I want to remind myself how precious our friendship was and how far I was willing to go to have it back. If you are a regular reader, you would have known why I kept this blog. Which obviously, you aren't and thus, I don't think you have the right to say "now I know what kind of person you are."

Thirdly, I went out with Jessica that afternoon, do I have to state online because of one little sentence I commented about her? It doesn't make any sense. Moreover, going out with her means we've made up duh.

Fourthly, perhaps I've hurt Sining in some ways by the things I said, but it was MY opinion of her. Unless you are Sining herself, I don't see why you should get so worked up. Plus, you are not even me, you don't know what happened between us these four years. And i'm assured that you, don't know the both of us very well.

Lastly, the reason why I deleted the post is so that I would not be reminisced of all the unpleasant memories when I looked back. So that the people themselves who had not seen would not continually feel upset. However, people like you really have no idea don't you? Consistently trying to dig out, to be a wisenheimer, to stay in the past and magnify it? Why? So that you can be a hero? Or so that more people would get hurt?

My point is, even though blogs are opened to public, no visitors have the right to slam any blogger because of his/her opinion, because my dears, you are not the blogger themselves. A third person can never understand a first person's feelings. Unless you're God of course, which is weird cause I can't imagine, God, sitting amongst the cloud, surfing www.xquisitedoll.blogspot.com. Moreover, God does not have to surf the net, he knows each and everyone of us inside out but let's not get to there.

*interlude*

Anyway, Shuling, Peiyi, Eleanor, Shinyee and I watched the sneak preview of Bratz the movie.

The movie was fine, just OK material. Grrr, to think that my anticipation - since September - ended up with only an OK. Nonetheless, the four Bratz were pretty! Well, maybe except the blonde one. I mean, blondes are usually gorgeous in girly shows, but this one was pretty.... different? Ha! The show is pretty shallow though, I recommend you to watch it! That is, if you're under the age of fourteen. Except for the Meredith girl of course. She is too sexy for a kids' show if you ask me.

EIGHT

2007-11-08T08:31:00.000-08:00

Since O'level is over, we, the eight of us, *cough* Betsy, Michelle and Jessica are exceptional of course - they are having their POA paper 1 next Tuesday - decided to pamper ourselves by having the girls' night in!

It was a crazy night!

Poor Jingsi reached our meeting place a.k.a Great World City first as I kind of fell asleep while waiting for all of them. Amenda and Meiying then arrived and suddenly, the four of us found ourselves shopping in Cold Storage like nobody's business. As a result, the supposedly a-night-snacks became a week's food supply. Worst is, as there were too many goods (obviously heavy), we ended up pushing the Cold Storage trolley all the way to my condominium. Humiliating? Not at all! We tried our best to cover up while crossing the road. Fortunately, my hair is long enough to cover my face. But Meiying... hohoho~~

Betsy and Sihui then joined us, followed by Jessica and finally Michelle.

After all the swimming, as everyone was famished, we headed straight to Great World's Food Junction for our dinner without showering! All eight of us had Pepper Lunch and afterwards, bought Jenga and Sticks game for the long night that we had agreed not to sleep on. YES, we are strong girls who can resist a full night without sleep! OK, perhaps that's not entirely true.
After realizing that we had forgotten to buy Pizza, we went to Cold Storage again to get them. Let me tell you, our trolley was beautifully embellished with wet towels. Ha! We desperately wanted them dry and thus, came up with this brilliant plan.
Isn't that just beautiful!? I know! It was so beautiful that people can't help but stare at it.

We went to the arcade thereafter as we are SUPERBLY addicted to the pucker game. You know, where there is a flat pucker for us to hit on, with the seemingly statically charged arena. Yeah it was crazy, like the whole swarm of us tackling on that poor game.
As we were halfway playing, we were reminded by Jingsi that it was twenty past nine and that we were missing the show that starts at nine. And we did the deadly sin that any adults would not do...

WE RAN ALL THE WAY HOME, betting that the last would have to treat breakfast.
*pant pant pant*
Meiying was the last! Hahaaa.
We reached home in five minutes! Amazing huh? ^^

*interregnum*

We all fell asleep after a while as our lids were too heavy. Jessica and Michelle were the first two to lie flat on the bed. And amazingly, Amenda, the sleeping queen was the second last to doze off.
Meiying was VERY surprisingly kind as she waited for all of us to sleep before she slept. She also sacrificed the sofa for Amenda, and blanket for Betsy =)

As for today, all of us lazed around, Suntanned (Sihui etc. who enjoyed basking under the scorching hot sun), munched on Pizza while watching Heroes! The show was fabu-licious can!? Pretty gory though, like O.M.G bloody, visible rib cages and intestines. Can you say nasty? Bleah.
STILL, it was fantastic!

The guys left at six in the evening.

The moment the door shut, I raced into my bathroom and showered, changed and rushed out to meet Shuling! We went to City Hall,where I made a careless promise of not taking taxi until the balance in my ez-link card finishes. She took it seriously and prevented me from taking any taxi AT ALL.

Ahhhhh~ *sigh of contentment* It's all relaxing days after Os! Feels quite empty though, without the studying... But still fun!

Yeah.. still good =)

By the way, I found a new TV-craze partner!

YAY! I need "shopping"!

Dear Shu Ling,

2007-11-06T09:23:00.000-08:00

The previous post was deleted as it was done in a fit of rage. I saw Shu Ling's blog and I felt very bad. I think something was really wrong with me today and I'm sorry SHULING. You know like when you have a bad day, even the most harmless cat makes you want to barf kinda thing.
If you're a bitch, then I'm a bitchier bitch than you. And I'm not even sure if that word exists but yeah. It's just like, the feeling is like, as if you're holding a very high hope but it turns out otherwise. That's why I felt mad, I guess.

Oh! And the reason I stayed is not solely on the Korean trip. It's a dozen tons more than that. Aiyah, forget about that trip! Who cares about that trip anyway!

It's like when I felt very down, you were always there for me. Now I'm like, turning my back against you. I don't even know how this stupid quarrel came about, but it's definitely, at least 60% my fault.

Cause deep deep deep deep down I really really truly LOVE you till the day my great great grandchild is born.

PS: This post is absolutely not done irrationally.