CNY Day 1

Woke up at 9am, wanted to sleep in till a bit later but I can't somehow.

Ate breakfast and ready to wish my parents Happy New Year before we head off to my Grandma's place at Jln Pemimpin.

As usual, all of us have to think of all the "chim" new year greetings before we can get our ang paos. This has been some kind of family tradition.

Took a family shot with my trusty Canon A70, which I almost sold away.


The Chongs

Chatted with an uncle whom I've not spoken to for many years. Why? Perhaps it's his attitude that I dislike, and he is not exactly friendly towards me either.

Today, we chatted quite a but. Especially after I told him I'm with Unilever. I was actually quite surprised that he's heard of my company because he is a civil engineer. Then I realise that he is now with MOE doing project management i.e. new school buildings. Unilever did an art competition for all the local school sometime last year. The winner will get to have their painting exhibited at the Tate, London.

We went to another relative's place before heading to my Ah Ma's place. I learnt a bit of my past today. I didn't know that I hated English so much in kindergarten that I refused to learn. No wonder I sucked so bad in Pri 1 that I was clueless on what my Indian form teacher was trying to say.

Seasons greetings! Want to wish you a Blessed Lunar New Year of the Rooster! Let this year be the best yet!

I went to Chinatown, with the aim to capture the festive atmosphere. Amongst the the hustle and bustle of vendors trying to sell the new year goodies, there was a crippled beggar dressed in traditional costume, blowing on his harmonica. I hid behind a pillar and captured the shot below.


Will the Golden Rooster change my fortune this year?

People just walked by him, carrying all the big bags of new clothes and bak kua. I just thought this man represented another side of Singapore. Have we forgotten about this group of people?



Legend contends that Valentine was a priest who served during the third century in Rome. When Emperor Claudius II decided that single men made better soldiers than those with wives and families, he outlawed marriage for young men.

Valentine, realising the injustice of the decree, defied Claudius and continued to perform marriages for young lovers in secret. When Valentine's actions were discovered, Claudius ordered that he be put to death.

Dying for love at its extreme.

Thinking of where to bring your special someone for dinner? How about Hotel Rendezvous?


Great for wiping away sweat after...

For every Valentine Set Dinner ordered, you will also take home a pair of lovely pastel coloured towels. Limited set only.

What have Eliss and myself accomplished this month for the upcoming Big Day?



We have found a very lovely 4A flat along Serangoon Central. Just a stone throw away from the Serangoon NEL station and the new CCL (2008). This is our biggest joint purchase, so we must be sure that this is the right one!



According to URA, Serangoon Central will be transformed into a vibrant Sub-Regional Centre (SRC) of the North East Region. When fully developed, the SRC will be about the size of Ngee Ann City.



Switching between the NEL and future CCL will be a breeze for Serangoon residents as the CCL station will be located right next to the NEL station at the Serangoon Sub-Regional Centre. Both stations will also be inter-connected directly underground.



New Kallang/Paya Lebar Expressway (KPE)

The new KPE will enhance connection between Punggol, Sengkang and the rest of the island.

We look forward to move into the new place in July.



So you thought a washing machine is nothing but a... waching machine? Well, here's a lowdown on how to choose one.

An average spin speed is 1100-1200 and is usually more than sufficient

The average load size is fast becoming 6kg

Get a top-loader for very good performance at a lower price

Consider energy usage

Stainless-steel tubs can stand up to higher spin speeds than plastic tubs, improving water extraction and shortening drying time.

Automatic temperature control mixes hot and cold water to achieve a specific temperature, handy if your incoming water is very cold or if your washer is a long way from the water heater.

Automatic dispensers ensure that bleach and detergent are released at the right time in the cycle so they work effectively. An extra rinse option can help if you're sensitive to detergent residue.

A porcelain top will resist scratching better than painted metal.