ciliqueen

The Foodie Bazaar Short Story

2010-07-29T14:56:00.009+08:00

If Bacterialogist Alexander Fleming was still alive to this day, he would had stumbled upon this blog and I am sure he would had found a bloggie mold! and made another discovery to a whole new antibacterial substance or whatever it may be and named it anti-peni-blog. LOL.

Anyway, following the success of Bloggers Bazaar months ago, another Foodie Bazaar was organised on last 25 July 2010. Oh my! I am sure to be the last person to post about the fun-filled Bazaar.

The turn out was awesome! About 200 people came to buy and have fun mingling with friends and family at the Bazaar. I was told a total of 18 vendors took part in the Bazaar - selling food, clothes and handicrafts items too.

Look at my stall, sitting pretty at one corner hehehe =) I was selling Dry Lontong. It is basically the same as the original Lontong, only that this is without the gravy - Lodeh.

Ahhh ... these are not off-springs of Paul the Octopus. No blood connection at all! Tempura Marinated Baby Octopus is created by Master-Chef-in-the-making Thanis. It was selling like goreng pisang! =)

Dry Nyonya Curry Pasta

Banana Chocolate Chip Cupcakes

Mini Hotdog Sausage

Lamb and Chicken Steaks

Rose Sandwiches

Young Entrepreneurs

Handmade handicrafts

When will be the next Bazaar? Will it be a mega Bazaar? Stay tune people ...

Ciliqueen meets the Pharaoh of Egypt

2010-05-24T19:06:00.004+08:00

Attending a gala night means you get to dress-to-kill in beautiful outifts and accessories, especially when it is a themed event. Women obviously have a harder time than men finding what gala dress to wear.

Last Saturday night, the International Women's Club (IWC) celebrated their 22nd anniversary at the Jerudong Polo Club. Besides dinner and show, there was an auction of items (sponsored by various companies) of which all proceeds from the auction will be donated to the Brunei Breast Cancer Support Group (BBCSG).

Themed "Movie Icons', I was invited to the wonderful and fun evening. Guess what? I bumped into the Pharaoh of Egypt - alive! and kicking good.. hahaha .. and ohh, he had brought along the last Queen of Egypt - Cleopatra. Among other Hollywood and Bollywood movie icons who came to grace the wonderful evening were James Bond, Brad Pitt, Christine and Don .. who? I was stunned when Angelina Jolie came with her partner - P. Ramlee?? Quite an odd match.. hehe

Committee members rendered some great songs and dances from the movies and one 14-year-old girl named Pei Pei caught my full attention when she sang a Bollywood number with her powerful voice! I wished I could have the courage to dance with her .. hehe. Not forgetting a funny Aunty May injected guests with laughters and smiles while performing her unexpected funny antics.

Hmmm .. did you know that I got a lift home from the Pharaoh himself? LOL

It was Go Pink! Sunday

2010-04-14T10:10:00.004+08:00

After last Sunday's Foodie Bloggers' Go Pink! desserts tasting event, my tummy was left bloated with delicious and pounds of calorie-packed desserts. LOL. It was the sweet taste that lingered on my tastebuds for days ... and those 'sugars' must have been flowing amok in my bloodstreams that left me with painful headaches for two nights that I could hang myself upside down from a branch swinging dreamily to relieve that awful headspins.

Nevertheless, I enjoyed myself on that beautiful Sunday. The weather was kind. Once again, Brunei Foodie Bloggers is in for a worthy cause. This year, Foodie Bloggers worked hand-in-hand with the Brunei Breast Cancer Support Care Group (BBCSCG) in organising a charity fundraising event to raise awareness about Breast Cancer. It was also to launch recipes to collate into a charity book to be published soon. I am sure, whatever we do, we will make a difference to those people who are affected by the cancer itself.

In fact, there are many ways and opportunities to raise money or funds to aid any charity cause. A charity recipe book which is titled Pink! Desserts has been decided and it is a compilation of favorite recipes contributed by Foodie Bloggers and other individuals who were keen to particiapte in the wonderful event. The recipe book is still 'in the making' as I write this post and will be on sale once it is ready. All proceeds from the sale will go to BBCSCG.

It is really rewarding for me when I can see people giving up a little bit of their time to attend the Go Pink! event. You will feel a real sense of pride for helping to improve the lives of people affected by cancer. I met new people and of course plenty of mouthful opportunities to have some fun tasting with those sinful and delicious desserts!

These were among the sinfulicous and delicious spread of desserts on the long table.. most of the desserts showed attitude and character. Well, you just got to be there to see all those DESSERTS!

Avocado Mousse

Super rich chocolate cake

Bahulu pick-me up ...oohh CQ sure did pick you up. LOL

Peanut butter pop

Petite fruit flan cupcakes

Irresistable chocolate cupcakes

Double boiled pears

Aahhh.. this is CQ's entry ~ pengat filled with durians, yam, sweet potatoes and bananas

The winning entry ~ Chocolate Luva cake .. look at that oozzzing molten chocolate lava!

Thanis Lim ~ the man behind the winning cake did a demo on how he baked the luva cakes.

Read more about the Go Pink! event here.

Foodie Bloggers Go Pink

2010-04-06T14:20:00.007+08:00

Is there any better way to participate in an activity to support a worthy cause? A charity book. The first project by the Ultimate Foodie Bloggers Challenge 2009 was a success!

2010 sees Brunei Foodie Bloggers Go Pink! in support for the Brunei Breast Cancer Support Group.

If you are keen in participating and contributing your favorite desserts recipes, please read here , here and here for more details.

Oh! CQ has definitely submitted her dessert recipe :) .. have you?

Lontong without Lodeh

2010-03-12T22:39:00.007+08:00

While on food hunts during CQ's recent trip back to the Lion City, CQ found this new dish ~ Lontong Kering (literally it means Dry Lontong) at one of the stalls in the new Geylang Food Court.

Lontong Kering is similar to the original Lontong except that Longtong Kering is served without the lodeh (milky gravy with vegetables, tofu or soyabean cake). It is definitely on CQ's must-cook-recipes in the near future :)

This is the new building for the wet and dry market in Geylang Serai. The famous old building had been demolished to give way to a new one with more stalls and better facilities.. but CQ felt that the old Geylang Serai should have been preserved ... as symbolic as it can be ..to walk down memory lane.

Mange Tout?

2010-01-19T21:21:00.000+08:00

Little did CQ realise that mange tout was actually a vegetable... hahaha. At first CQ thought it was a kind of fish because the word 'tout' seemed to 'look' like trout! Maybe it's time for CQ to check on my eyesight.

Mange Tout is often refered to as sugarsnap peas or snow peas. The word 'mangetout' means 'eat all' in French. It is great when blanched and tossed in salad dressings, steamed or stir-fried. Mange Tout is extremely versatile and can be eaten raw too in salads.

For dinner tonight, CQ tried a new recipe Chicken Mushroom Cream Pasta with Mange Tout by Senor Pablo. You can get the recipe here.

Try it! You will definitely ask for more :)

Hello 2010

2010-01-02T00:36:00.003+08:00

Ciliqueen wishes Everyone a happy & prosperous life ahead in the new year with Love, Success and Peace!

CQ meets Spanish bloggers

2009-12-31T21:09:00.006+08:00

Is there any better way to end your year 2009? Indeed, there was! It was a rare chance to meet and dine with fellow bloggers from Spain! here in Brunei.

CQ was so ever thankful to Senor Pablo for giving CQ this great opportunity to meet the two Spanish Bloggers - Inaki and Esther, who are visiting Brunei Darussalam to document on the local cuisine. Both Inaki and Esther have tried most of the local dishes, especially the famous traditional Ambuyat.

Last night, we had a simple yet pretty dinner at Senor Pablo's crib. Among the dishes prepared for our Spanish guests were - Grilled Fish with soya sauce, Prawn Asam Rebus, Stir-fry Pakis, Umbut2 (palm shoot) cooked in coconut milk, Belutak (marinated beef), Tarap fritters and Pandan tea.

Hope to meet our special guests - Inaki and Esther, again in the future.. perhaps in Spain!?

He is my Brother

2009-12-29T18:15:00.000+08:00

A fun-packed memorable birthday bash that was held last Saturday, 26 December 2009 at the Tarindak Restaurant, Jerudong Polo Country Club to celebrate the 50th birthday of Bin Khalid, was one night to remember.

'Celebrity Night' was the theme. Families and friends who attended the party, did dress boldly and beautifully.

Bin Khalid and family

A beautiful poem, composed and recited by BinKhalid's brother ~ Senor Pablo, caught CQ's attention and so did the other guests that night.

He is my Brother

This is a poem for my dearest brother
For us he is like no other
He thinks he was naturally born a Leader
And keeps our families close together!

He is my brother – the fourth in line
For him that number will do just fine
I myself am three behind
But all of us he does outshine!

Brothers share a special bond
Especially for one we are truly fond
Memories we shared have never gone
Even till his hair turns blonde!

Success to you our brother dear
Good luck we wish and that is clear
For our support please do not fear
We will come to you from far and near!

Happy birthday!

Senor Pablo

BRUSTRALIA - foodie event

2009-12-14T09:12:00.006+08:00

Yesterday, CQ attended a foodie event organised by the Brunei-Australia Alumni Associaiton at Senor Pablo's crib.

There were many sinful yet awesome delicious spread of food on the long table. CQ enjoyed most of them without even worrying if CQ would be packing loads of calories into her system.. huhu

Banana Chocolate Creme Brulee ..CQ's favorite dessert :)

Ka-Pow burgers & sloppy Jim's
..said to be a best-seller during the Ramadhan season

Appetisers ..yums yums

Salmon & Spinach Quiche ??

ok CQ has forgotten the name but it did won a prize :))

BinKhalid's Lamb with black pepper sauce

Another finger food.. simply delicious..
you can just gobbled up without biting bit by bit hehehe

see what CQ meant? Awesome spread of food!

Talented boy who entertained the guests with his Acousitc guitar? He even rendered a song he had composed himself.

Finale - group photo

Foodie event

2009-12-07T21:36:00.001+08:00

Ciliqueen will be there!

KG is no longer a Bachelor!

2009-12-04T15:09:00.004+08:00

Yes! Kurapak Guy is married! hoo hoo... The local blogging scene saw Mr. Kurapak Guy ended his bachelor days when he tied the knot with sweetheart - Ms Aqilah Bakri just over a week ago.

Families and friends celebrated the joyous occassion for the lovely couple. This fun guy, who has a number of famous taglines like 'manith', 'astee' and 'yowww' is also a creative and talented individual.

Awangku.. eh eh .. now known as Pg Syahreen, is seen here during the Akad Nikah ceremony. Hmmm his facial expression was so serious... it must be the 'kabak-kabak eh di dada ku' feeling.. hehe

Congratulations!

Alin & Qilah

In most weddings, you will get to see gifts being exchanged between both parties. This iMac gift caught CQ's attention when CQ was browsing through the Kurapak's Wedding Album. It is very refreshing and unique to give or add interesting wedding gifts instead of the usual stuffs like handbags and shoes.

CQ wonders if Mrs. Kurapak will get her MacPro on their first wedding anniversary =)

p/s: All photos published with permission from Mr. Kurapak himself =))

Trekking up Shah Bandar Hills

2009-11-29T20:51:00.008+08:00

It must have been like so ancient since the last time CQ had been active climbing up the Shah Bandar Hills in Jerudong.

Facilities have been upgraded with new ones that will lure more nature lovers and tourists to enjoy with families and friends.

Slopes like these have been given new 'facelift' with proper steps which will be much easier to climb up or down, especially for senior individuals.

A Big Thank You

2009-11-21T22:12:00.008+08:00

CQ would like to say her heartfelt big Thank You to Traffic Police (TP) rider 3283 for the assistance he had rendered early this morning (21 November 2009 @ about 8.00AM) while CQ was waiting for Bigboss to 'rescue' her. CQ's car tyre had punctured along the Police Station's perimeter in Gadong.

After CQ had dropped Kimchi off at PTE Katok, CQ decided to drive home slowly and tuned in to Lady Gaga's Bad Romance. Ten minutes later, rumbling noises were heard and the car seemed to be inbalance on the front. Assuming, it must be a tyre puncture, CQ drove to another 50 meters ahead before making a stop on the side road and putting on the emergency lights on.

It had never occured to think that CQ would have the 'chance' to experience a tyre puncture. After making calls to Bigboss and a friend, CQ waited patiently. There was an urge to flag down one of the passing cars but CQ opted out from doing so. It was quite disheartening though, to know that not even one of the many passing cars would stop to find out or render any assistance needed.

Suddenly out of nowhere, a TP rider pulled up in front of CQ's car. Without any hesitaion, this TP rider asked for the car jack and started to change the tyre. Half an hour later, after Bigboss had arrived at the scene, another TP rider 4499 stopped to render his colleague any extra assistance.

Felt like a VIP, CQ can't get enough to thanked both Traffic Police riders, especially TP 3283, whom CQ believed had just started his morning duty, yet his uniform had already got dirtied. A thoughtful deed by the Public Servants.

Once again, THANK YOU very much to both TP riders 3283 and 4499.

Ak. Syahmi & Rafidah

2009-11-09T12:57:00.008+08:00

Going to weddings mean you get to see stunning styles of bridal outfits. CQ loves to see the detailed designs on bridal outfits and also the bride's headgear.

CQ's nephew - Ak. Syahmi tied the knot with lovely Rafidah just a week ago at the bride's home in Kampong Mulaut. Yesterday was the Bersanding and Ambil-ambilan ceremony.

Awww ... look at this lovebirds! Handsome Ak. Syahmi and gorgeous Rafidah were so absorbed 'lirik-liriking' at each other hehehe ...

Ak. Syahmi & Rafidah

Posing on the dias after the Akad nikah ceremony last week.

The Berbedak ceremony at Ak. Syahmi's home.

Ak. Syahmi with uncle Bigboss

CQ wishes Ak. Syahmi and Rafidah a happy life and all the best in their future undertakings in a blissful marriage of togetherness.

More pictures and stories here and here.

Jason Voorhees in town??

2009-10-22T22:59:00.003+08:00

Check this picture out - taken on Kimchi's phone camera.

Earlier in the evening, CQ went to get some groceries in the Gadong area. You bet! CQ got startled by the what CQ saw on the side mirror of CQ's car.

hmmmm . . .

When Syawal ended with cute slurps

2009-10-21T13:15:00.001+08:00

Last weekend marked the end of Syawal. So, before curtains were drawn down, CQ invited a special little girl and her family to have the last raya dinner at CQ's humble home.

CQ prepared one of CQ's signature dish in the kitchen hehehe.. Soto Ayam, of course. CQ was elated to see little Safiya slurrpping the soup to her heart's content. She enjoyed it very much and CQ was sure that little Safiya had a couple of helpings to the soup, but her brother, Syafi Irfan seemed not to be in the mood. He had sleepy eyes =)

After dinner, CQ had a big surprise for little Safiya... a birthday cake - 3 chocolate cupcakes - each marked a year. Yes! Little Safiya turned three years old just few days earlier.

Ohhh... don't worry, CQ did not bake the cupcakes hehehe..

Little Safiya Imani and her family at CQ's dinner table =)

Well, if you remember this story, it gives CQ an idea. Maybe next year CQ will organize a 'Raya Kids Open House at CQ's' ..huhu

Kaki5 Folk Akustika 09

2009-10-08T08:19:00.005+08:00

While you are in Singapore this weekend, don't just shop till you drop or eat all you can! If you love music then it is the right time to enjoy Acoustic folk music - LIVE & FREE!

Kaki5 Folk Akustika 2009 is presented to you by Klub Kaki5 & Esplanade at The Concourse. Admission is free.

CQ personally thinks it is a great effort to bring audiences to enjoy and appreciate great music and Live performances by our local artistes. Six days of folk music... something not to be missed.

Sehebat Cinta

2009-10-07T00:02:00.003+08:00

This beautiful theme song was written for The Project Cleft (Singapore) by talented Andry Sani and Ajak Bajuri and performed by Sound Salvation and students from SMU (Singapore Management University).

In many ways, it is a global cause. Project Cleft is a student-led fund raiser for Operation Smile. If you do care, please do support the project.

Finally we met ..

2009-10-06T18:52:00.004+08:00

Still very much in the festive moods, many Open Houses are taking place around the country. Spreads of delicious and calories-boosted food are being served to induce Raya guests to linger on a little bit more in celebrating the Eid Mubarak.

Last Saturday, CQ finally got to meet a little girl - Safiya Imani and her brother - Syafi Irfani, in their new house in Kampong Selayun. Both brother and sister are CQ's youngest blog follower and they do have a blog of their own.

Safiya Emir meets Safiya Imani - we share the same first name :)

CQ's special guests, Iraqi-Swiss - Ikhlas and Omar, flew in on the eve of Syawal to experience Eid Mubarak for the first time in Brunei Darussalam.

Family and friends at CQ's crib :)

Salam Ramadhan

2009-08-30T22:54:00.003+08:00

Tomorrow is the tenth day of fasting and in this month of Ramadhan, CQ would like to tune our mind and thoughts toward the deen of Allah, by doing good deeds in accordance to the Islamic way.

Salam Ramadhan Kareem...

* * * * * *

Something to ponder...

MasyaAllah!

Buat pedoman di bulan Ramadhan dan untuk selamanya ...bagi kita yang dilahirkan dengan cukup sifat dan sempurna agar jangan lalai dalam menjalani suruhan dan larangan Allah SWT ...semoga pintu taubat masih terbuka ...Amin.

Sail away

2009-08-20T16:34:00.005+08:00

Oh my, it has been quite a while that CQ posted any stories or some interesting topics for you readers out there to follow up.

Well, CQ was overwhelmed with what has been happening in the past weeks (busy facebooking.. lol). One of them was when CQ's little baby girl is no more a baby girl *sniffs sniffs*. Kimchi has just turned seventeen... yeah sweet seventeen! in early August. How time flew without you realizing that your little tots have blossomed into beautiful young adults.

Anyway, CQ would like to share a new awesome activity in Brunei. Sailing. You may have cruised along the Brunei River, but sailing out on the seas of Brunei Coast, just miles off the Serasa Ferry Terminal will blew your mind off from your nonstop-busy-city lifestyle.

This sailing yacht is one and only of its kind in the world. Made of three different wood - Norwegian pine, oak and teak, SV Petima is 25 years old. Born in Denmark, she has sailed through most of the Earth's seas and oceans.

Winning a $50 sailing voucher, sponsored by Dream Charter, CQ set sailed with Bigboss and few other couples last Late July.

Sailing in Brunei is relatively new. Besides day sailing, there are other cruises available - honeymoon cruise, family trip out to the sea, fine dining or even holding a short business meeting on board the yacht to create a different atmosphere for your business clienteles. For more details, go to their website.

The sailing yacht is well equipped with the basic and essential household amenities and facilities.

It is solar-powered. Yes! the yacht has an engine too :)

Fish farms

Captain Peter with CQ :))

2009-08-09T11:52:00.003+08:00

Happy Birthday

Singapore

Congratulations! You did us proud

2009-07-31T16:36:00.002+08:00

After doing a 3-year degree in Geology, Muhammad Hazim came back proudly armed with his achievements - Bachelor Of Science in Geology.

Congratulations once again! You did us proud!

Nur Afifah & Zuraime

2009-07-30T21:43:00.002+08:00

On last 24 July 2009, an engagement ceremony - Majlis Bersuruh dan Bertunang - between Nur Afifah and Zuraime, took place with colourful memories.

Nur Afifah & Muhammad Zuraime Waquiddin

Click here for full coverage of the event..

Hawaiian Night

2009-07-27T22:26:00.007+08:00

The Theme was Hawaiian Night. Guests who came on the night of 25 July 2009 - were sportingly great in dressing up and created tidal waves of fun at the Serikandi Q-Lap Restaurant. So, what's the occasion?

It was a birthday bash for Senor Pablo. CQ was overwhelmed when Senor Pablo extended his invitation to CQ to celebrate our birthdays at the restaurant with families and friends.

Mr. ArabFamilies aka BinKhalid and Mr. LV aka Wais in their smashing Hawaiian outfits huhu ...

The Daboys were cool with Fejj and Marshmallow Boy made their HAwaiian-like head gear with fresh flowers. Funboy slipped a flower on his right ear - so cute eh :) ..hmm as Syam, he was cool in his floral shirt too.

Ahhh look at this table! They did dress-to-kill. Liza and Ida even wore floral bracelets on their wrists. Thumbs up for you guys :))

At any event, there is always something likely to happen, right? Well, CQ got to meet with CQ's former lady boss huhu ..yup! the lady on the far left. She looked gorgeous in her lime green baju kurung!

Ahhh this is Senor Pablo's birthday cake - profiteroles - made specially by beloved Bunny Pablo.

picture courtesy of Mr. Kurapak Guy :)

CQ got a cake too huhu - it was an assembly of vanilla chocolate chip cupcakes with fresh mango topping!! made by the Pablos, yummy. Thank you so much.

Yes! if it isn't the comic duo - Beracun and Pacik that made the party alive with their endless fun-craze antics and jokes. Roars of laughters and waves of giggles erupted that night. CQ's facial muscles and jaw were jammed at the end of the party huhu.

There were contests - Hawaiian dance, hula-hoop dance and the Best Dressed Male & Female.

You got to be there to see the contestants (above) with their hilarious yet creative dance steps to the beat of Hawaiian song.

Poco-poco dance is a must huhu...

Mr. Hawaii and Ms Hawaii
Best Dressed Male & Best Dressed Female

Group photo

Happiness is a choice, not an automatic response

2009-07-19T14:24:00.002+08:00

Why are some people so happy and optimistic; while others are so unhappy and pessimistic?

A friend of CQ - Ms Gloria shared these five essentials to make yourself ultra-motivated. It could make a difference in your life.

#1: You can only have one (1) thought at a time
This is the key to feeling optimistic, enjoying your life, and fulfilling your vision for a delightful life: You only can keep one thought in your head at a time. This is one of the easiest ways to keep negative thoughts out of your mind. You crowd them out. After all, if you keep thinking positive, optimistic and uplifting thoughts, you cannot simultaneously focus on negative, depressing or upsetting thoughts.

#2: Expect the best
It is this simple. If you start a day or task with a positive belief that you will succeed, you increase your chances that you will figure out ways to assure a successful outcome.

#3: Strong ambition
The finest way to develop strong ambition is for you to think about your goals, ambitions and things you want many, many times each day. Again, think about what you want and specifically what you need to do to get it.

#4: Gumption to change how you think
The way you handle situations has served you to some degree. Now, you have a tremendous opportunity to feel more confident and optimistic than you ever may have dreamed possible. You can unleash your energy. To do this, you need the gumption to change or improve some of your habitual ways of thinking.

#5: Persistence
Persistence is a key to feeling happy. By disciplining yourself to keep working toward your goals until you reach them; you develop well-deserved self-esteem and confidence. These are hallmarks of every happy and optimistic person.

"Happiness is a choice, not an automatic response."

Have a great Sunday people :))

2009-07-15T20:37:00.001+08:00

Happy 63rd Birthday To His Majesty

Sembah Tahniah & Ucap Selamat Hari Puja Usia

Sempena Hari Keputeraan

Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda
Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu'izzaddien Waddaulah

@ Funbread Cafe

2009-07-09T22:17:00.002+08:00

Ever had to crack up your brain cells as to think of a restaurant or cafe to dine out? Well, if you would want to opt for some stress-free meals, CQ has a new place to recommend ..err in fact newly renovated Funbread Cafe - located just a few doors away from Incomm - Gadong.

It was only two nights ago that CQ had tagged along with the Pablos to meet up with some old and new friends at Funbread Cafe. As for CQ, it was definitely making new friends over new set of delicious menu.

Funbread Cafe seems to focus on simplicity yet full of goodness to their new menu.

Peach & Coconut and Red Bean & Coconut

CQ ordered the Red Bean & Coconut drink. Not too sweet and the 'pearls' will give a soft grinding-like effect when you chew on them.

Green Tea Latte

This is something new - Green Tea Latte. Look at the tiers of colour combination. CQ took a sip. You can taste the strong green tea with a mild presence of coffee (is it?) and it is not too sweet.

Soft Shell Crab

When CQ asked what's the name of this dish, CQ heard it as 'nude chicken'. LOL. CQ's eyes went rolling up and everywhere hehehe ...so as not to embarrass myself asking again, CQ checked out the menu booklet. Ahhhh ...it's Soft Shell Crab. Did not get to taste it because CQ was busy snapping here and there ....you know lah - being an amateur blogger :D

Crispy Duck Rolls

CQ does not eat duck *grins* so CQ asked Bunny Pablo to describe how the duck rolls tasted. She said it was nice. Well, for duck lovers, do crumble your way to Funbread Cafe and savour the rolls with families and friends.

Kampong Style Fried Rice

As in most fashion shows, the show-stopper will make waves on the runaway, so for that evening, CQ chose the above Kampong Style Fried Rice as the show-stopper. The dish presentation may look simple but the taste of the belachan (shrimp paste) is perfectly balanced with other ingredients. You should not miss this menu!

Egg Grande

Egg Grande is a very simple and quick dish. CQ believes every child will love drooling just by looking at the picture and as for the adults, CQ is sure they will have second and third helpings :))

White Choco Macadamia Cake

This is a killer. CQ will not describe the heavenly taste ...so make your way to Funbread Cafe tomorrow to find out yourself.

Oreo Brownie with a scoop of Vanilla ice-cream

CQ tapau-ed the Oreo and Caramel Brownie. Do you know what that means? Find out more at Funbread Cafe.

Yes, if it isn't Beracun and Pachik

2009-07-01T20:38:00.002+08:00

Comic mayhem ensues or erupts uncontrollably whenever this duo makes an appearance at any functions. You can never have enough of their impromptu jokes and interactions with their audience.

When CQ first met this comic duo for the first time, they reminded CQ of the legendary duo - Jerry Lewis and Steve Martin.

Kumpulan 69 - Pachik (left) is an uncle figure to his partner-in-crime - Beracun (right), a heshe who likes to woo good-looking guys with his cheeky-fun antics ... "I like tooohhh .." Anyone can be a victim just by having eye-to-eye contact with Beracun. LOL.

It is quite surprising to know that they had actually been in the local entertainment scene since 2003. They were one of the five finalists in a competition, where Kumpulan 69 emerged as the winners and that led to their first appearance in a local drama 'Sindir-sindir sayang'.

In reality, Beracun and Pachik can be serious ..but when they go on stage, they can be mood-shifters with their super-mega-watt funny antics that you can get jaw-stroke laughing your hearts out. You just got to see... to believe!

CQ like tooohh :)) ...

Baca bila free ..

2009-06-27T14:26:00.007+08:00

Cara-Cara Nak Handle Hantu...

Pocong Hantu yang berbungkus macam lepat pisang baru masak ni memang mudah cari kelemahannya. Kita hanya perlu bukak tali pengikat di atas kepalanya dan tarik kain balutannya. Sudah tentu dia akan berasa malu kerana dia tidak pakai apa apa pun, selain kain kapan pembungkusnya tu.

Langsuir Dia ni suka pandang muka kita, jadi beranikan diri anda tenung balik muka dia sambil jelir-jelir lidah. Kalau tak pun tunjuk cermin muka kat dia, pasti dia tersipu-sipu malu.

Pontianak Hantu yang suka ketawa. Kalau terserempak dengan dia, kita pun mestilah ketawa sama. Kalau boleh kita cuba mengilai lebih kuat dari dia, tentu dia boring.

Hantu Raya Hantu ni suka beraya dan suka menyamar jadi tuan dia. Cara mengalahkannya senang saja, sambutlah hari raya tiap kali jumpa dia, bagi duit raya, ajak main meriam buluh, suruh kacau dodol atau jaga lemang. Tentu dia tak kacau kita sebab banyak kerja dan aktiviti lain dia nak buat.

Hantu Galah Hantu ni la yang paling tinggi di muka bumi. Kalau terjumpa dia, kita hendaklah meniarap. Pasti dia tak perasan kita ada disitu.

Jerangkung Dia ni ada kulit tapi nipis. Tinggal rangka saja, dan paling mudah untuk menewaskannya. Kita hanya perlu tunjal dahinya dengan telunjuk dan lihat gerak-gerinya mengimbangi badan untuk berdiri tegak.

Toyol Lagi senang kalau nak kalahkan dia, bagi duit satu sen berguni-guni..nanti dia ingat duit emas, lepas tu dia pikul bawak balik bagi tuannya... lepas tu sah-sah lah dapat penampau Jepun dari tuannya kerana mana nak tukar duit satu sen banyak2 tu

Hantu Ponteng Yang ni payah sikit nak cakap sebab, hantu-hantu ni cam korang lerrr...takder kerja lain asyik ponteng kerja, lepas tu nengok e-mail.. macam sekarang nih..sah-sah tengah ponteng nie.. macamana nak jawab..korang sendiri gak jadik hantu.. jadi bayak-bayaklah buat kerja ....

hehehee ..kan dah suruh baca bila free :D

PS: To my English speaking readers, this post is about ways to get rid off the different types of ghosts (kind of a joke). CQ is in jobless mode now ..lols

It happened during lunch hour

2009-06-25T15:34:00.004+08:00

Before this happens to anyone of You, please observe road safety and traffic rules.

P/S: I Love Him

2009-06-14T21:58:00.004+08:00

Thank you Bigboss for the wonderful unforgettable 18 years sailing through rough seas and oceans together and sky-diving during good and sad times. Hope to trek the cruel yet beautiful world with you in the endless years to come ...

Happy 18 years ...to us :))

New in the market??

2009-06-13T15:38:00.004+08:00

It may not be equipped with the best or latest car technology but it is sure a creative caravan ..hehee

Any buyers??

Hello hello hello

2009-06-12T20:57:00.008+08:00

Yes, it was indeed a warm welcome hello for Singapore families that came to visit families in Brunei. They had came through the Miri - Sungai Tujoh checkpoint on last Tuesday, after attending one of the Arab-Families' cousin's wedding in Kuching.

Sharifah Hjh Maimunah was elated to meet her only sister, Hjh Umi Kalsom (second from right).

Hj Fathi and family with Mdm Jarah

Hj Abdul Hamid and Shaikh Hj Ahmad

Bigboss with uncle Hj Fathi

Mdm Jarah with Mdm Ros and Mr. LV aka Wais Saputra :)

cuzzies

The Sam's siblings - not Simpsons :D heheee

During their couple of days stay in Brunei, the Singapore families were entertained with ...of course food!

CQ's plate :D :D

School Anwering Machine

2009-06-10T11:43:00.007+08:00

This is hilarious - no wonder some people were offended! This is the message that Maroochydore High School Queensland, staff voted unanimously to record on their school telephone answering machine. This is the actual answering machine message for the school. This came about because they implemented a policy requiring students and parents to be responsible for their children's absences and missing homework. The school and teachers are being sued by parents who want their children's failing grades changed to passing grades - even though those children were absent 15-30 times during the semester and did not complete enough school work to pass their classes.

The outgoing message:

Hello! You have reached the automated answering service of your school. In order to assist you in connecting to the right staff member, please listen to all the options before making a selection:

To lie about why your child is absent - Press 1

To make excuses for why your child did not do his work - Press 2

To complain about what we do - Press 3

To swear at staff members - Press 4

To ask why you didn't get information that was already enclosed in your newsletter and several flyers mailed to you - Press 5

If you want us to raise your child - Press 6

If you want to reach out and touch, slap or hit someone - Press 7

To request another teacher, for the third time this year - Press 8

To complain about bus transportation - Press 9

To complain about school lunches - Press 0

If you realize this is the real world and your child must be accountable and responsible for his/her own behavior, class work, homework and that it's not the teachers' fault for your child's lack of effort: Hang up and have a nice day!

If you want this in another language, please move to a country that speaks it.

CQ wonders what will be the parents' reactions if the above message to be implemented in the local schools ... hmmm

~ shared by a friend who's a teacher by profession :)

Planting Trees Day

2009-06-01T20:52:00.000+08:00

Trees are living things. They do have their own day to commemorate their existence on Earth ..huh?

The United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) is launching a worldwide One Billion Tree Campaign program on World Environmental Day, 5 June 2009. On this day people of the world are encouraged to plant or replant trees in a bid to meet UNEP's main goal.

The British High Commission is organizing a tree planting event at the Badas Forest Reserve in Seria on Wednesday 17 June 2009 at 9.00 am. If you wish to participate, please register yourself here.

The High Commission is committed in achieving the main objective of the campaign, therefore one way to reduce the carbon dioxide emission into the atmosphere is to plant as many trees as possible. The designated area is the Badas Forest Reserve that was badly damaged due to the forest fires several years ago.

Both HRH The Prince of Wales and HRH Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince have planted trees in the area last year, that has brought much attention to the tree-planting project in the Badas Forest Reserve.

On that day, participants are to make their own way to the Badas area. There will be a sign on both sides of the highway (for those traveling from Bandar or from Belait) on where the exact location is.

Do not forget to bring:
- sun block, insect repellent

Do wear:
- comfortable clothes; shoes that you don't mind getting dirty (as the area can be soggy); long pants and light shirts/ t-shirts
- sun hat or caps (optional)
- small towels (optional)
- your smile :)

Sleep more to lose weight

2009-05-28T11:24:00.000+08:00

When comes to the word 'weight', CQ thinks it is one of the most dreaded word to be linked to most, if not all women on earth. LOL.

Losing weight or at least to shed some pounds off the body figure does require a lot of work, right? Many may have gone to slimming centers, going for diet and weight loss programs, crash dieting, working out at the gym with a personal trainer or even going on hunger pangs for days, weeks or even months. Results may vary with different people.

Anyway, few nights ago, CQ had read an article in a magazine that says "Lose 10lbs just by sleeping more." Sounds dubious, isn't it?

How is this possible? Well, it is said that studies have shown that people tend to weigh more if they sleep less. Meaning you are not resting enough.

So what exactly is the sleep-weight connection? Science says - not CQ - that sleep deprivation wreaks havoc on the hormones that control appetite, cravings and metobolism of fat. How not so cool.

Sleep more, eat less

Have you ever notice that you proabbly eat more when you are tired? When you are deprived of sleep, you have an increase in ghrelin (a 'go' hormone because it makes you want to eat more). You will then have a drop in leptin (the 'stop' hormone that tells you to stop when you are full).
When you are sleep-deprived, not only will you tend to eat more but also you want junkier food - a simple carbs food for quick energy. That is disastrous!

Sleep more, store less food

Now how does this explains? During sleep, your brain excretes a large amount of growth hormone which tells your body how to break down fat and fuel.
When your body is deprieved of deep sleep, extra calories will be stored up as fats because there isn't enough growth hormone to break it down. Therefore your body will take the shortest way and storing it away in your butt, thighs, belly or wherever you tend to put on weight.

Sleep more, have more energy

When you have enough rest, you will feel less tired. When you are less tired, you will have more energy. You will enjoy doing more rigourous activities than your usual veg out days.
Your perception as to whether exercise is hard or easy is directly affected by how sleep-deprived you are.

Are you ready - especially ladies - to conquer some hurdles in a simpler way to lose weight? You don't even have to change your diet and exercises. All you have to do is have a good eight hours of sleep at night. But remember - the minimum hours is 7.5 hours for weight loss ...more than that does not help you drop in more pounds.

Why not start the sleep-diet tonight. Here are some tips to help you along with the new habit..

Go to sleep and wake up at the same time every day.
Start a bedtime routine.
Watch your caffeine habits.
Experiment with exactly how much sleep you need.

Through personal experience about four years ago, when CQ left the workforce, CQ dropped 6kgs in three weeks! Yes! This could have been the little extra hours of sleep that CQ had - for not waking up so early in the morning. But now ...hmmm :p

Okay! CQ wants to try out this sleep-diet thing. Good luck if you are trying too :)

$2 Please

2009-05-26T08:03:00.004+08:00

Well CQ had been away for awhile from blogging and now got tagged by Daniel Yoleh . Here we go ... answer these questions as truthfully as you can.

1.) If someone came up to you asking for $2 (or more), what would be your response?
a.) Say no and walk off.
b.) Say no, stare at the person and walk off laughing.
c.) Say yes and pass him/her the $2.
d.) Say yes, pass him/her the $2 and lecture him/her on finding a job.

My answer: C

2.) If your best friend told you that he/she needs $2 more to buy that TV set or iPhone, what would be your response?
a.) Say no and give him/her the hell of a scolding.
b.) Say no and refuse to give any reasons.
c.) Say yes and pass him/her the $2, it doesn't hurt anyway does it?
d.) Say yes, pass him/her the $2 and lecture him/her on the importance of saving up.

My answer: B

3.) Your neighbour would like to pay you $2 for helping him wash his home. What would be your response?
a.) Slap him and kick his arse!
b.) Pour the bucket of soap on him - head to toe. (Who needs head and shoulders?)
c.) Smile and accept that measly $2.
d.) Reject his payment and say you did it for free.

My answer: B [ becoz my actual answer is not in the above list :D ]

4.) The friend of your child borrowed $2 from him/her. He/she came home and told you about it. What would be your response?
a.) Scold your child for being too generous.
b.) Deduct $2 from his/her pocket money the next day.
c.) Praise him/her for being kind and generous.
d.) Buy your child an ice cream to reward him for being a great friend.

My answer: C

5.) If you saw $2 on the ground, you would:
a.) Pick it up hoping no one saw.
b.) Kick it aside and think you don't need a measly $2.
c.) Tell people around you theres a $2 note on the ground for grab.
d.) Pick it up and go home feeling guilty and upset about it.

My answer: A

[Results] - CQ's in red :p

3 or more As: Your a stingy and miserable person.
3 or more Bs: Your a scary person. Hell hath no fury like yonder scorn.
3 or more Cs: Your a nice person. No doubt about it.
3 or more Ds: Your not just a nice person but also a great one.
2As and 2Bs: Your a mixture of stinginess and terror.
2As and 2 Cs: Your personality is contradicting.
2As and 2 Ds: Your a very moody person, one day your hot, the next day your cold.
2Bs and 2 Cs: Your a normal person, stingy at times but generous too at other times.
2Bs and 2 Ds: Same as above.
2Cs and 2 Ds: Your a very nice, great and generous person. Bravo!

If you wish to try, by all means please do .. but do not cheat, surveillance camera is on .. hehee :)

Too much too little

2009-05-21T10:14:00.010+08:00

Have you ever wonder or give a serious thought as to how much sugar content comes within the food we eat??

You will be surprised if not shocked ...when you look at these pictures - that CQ got through a forwarded email. It may or may not be the exact measurement but you can take it as guidelines the amount of sugar that goes tagging along with the food that you eat.

Giving up any of the above?? Do some serious thinking now!

Sampan ride

2009-05-19T08:06:00.004+08:00

Thanks to photographer Chee,
finally CQ got his professional shot of CQ's recipe ..hihihi

2009-05-10T17:45:00.007+08:00

Happy Mother's Day

to all mommies over the world.
It is the joys and fears of motherhood that
make us much stronger over time ...

Thank you Senor Pablo for your wishes ...
and CQ would like to add 3 names to the list of blogging Mommies:

1. Princess Nashwa
2. Mimi
3. Bunny Pablo

Sparrow duo cooling off

2009-05-08T16:35:00.004+08:00

In the past weeks, the weather had been so unbearably hot. Even these two sparrows could feel the heat on their little feathered bodies huhu ...

Making use of the aircon water dripping from the above windows - these duo cooled off their little butts and legs :)

Ants attack!!

2009-05-08T11:56:00.003+08:00

"Also a big thank you to all bloggers and recipe contributors that made the event a success and everyone for the continuous support on this project"

- an excerpt from 'My Recipe Book'.

It was indeed a noble project by a group of bloggers and individuals - initiated by an idea that came out of nowhere. CQ could not have done that alone and was extremely elated to be part of this awesome project to support charity.

But sadly, some PEOPLE took the whole thing into their self-interest acts. Yes, CQ have read some tasteless comments made about the end product of the recipe book project on a blog. What or how would that fellow or fellows want to be thanked - for their contributions? Do these contributors want a red carpet 'Thank You' or do they have other agendas up their sleeves?

Ahhhh ... Yes! CQ believed he/she or they are dissatisfied contributors. Wanting bigger portions of the cake! It was a kind gesture that the recipe book project committee had invited all bloggers and non-bloggers to participate or contribute any of their favorite recipes to be shared, made into a book, sell to the public and ALL sale proceeds will be donated to the Brunei Special Olympics Team!

But unfortunately there are few aNts trying to squeeze their way up to the front upper seats of the cinema ...without even reliasing that they are stampede-ing on themselves!! Wake up! Look at yourselves in the mirror before writing those tasteless comments.

For those who have not purchase the recipe book, you may buy them at Shop @ Sarah in Q-lap, while stocks last. It costs only B$10.00 - do buy in the name of charity.

Page 25

2009-05-07T10:25:00.003+08:00

Opportunity comes once! Finally, CQ is co-author/contributor for 'My Recipe Book'.

For those who had bought the recipe book, you can find CQ's recipe on page 25! If you have not own one, you can get the book at Shop @ Sarah - while stocks last. All proceeds will be donated to the Brunei Special Olympics Team.

The Missing Ingredients Quiz

2009-05-06T21:04:00.006+08:00

Ahahh ...we are still not finished yet with the Foodies' Bloggers Challenge! huhu - below is excerpt from Senor Pablo's blog ... read on, take part and you can win yummy cakes!!

It is a mystery really. Some chefs love to leave out key ingredients so that they are always superior to their students. Almost as if these ingredients were left out on purpose... So, it is a mystery really? What can it be? A hint is to get the book and check out which recipe could it be. Update on books- we are left with 150 copies. Selling like cucur pisang panas! We have no intention to reprint at the moment. You can get them at Shop@Sarah at Qlap Mall or Serikandi at Qlap.

Clues to the Missing Ingredients Quiz? There are three separate recipes in the book that have something missing! You have to go through the 47 recipes to find out and if you are a foodie, it is so obvious. This game is NOT open to the recipe contributors but readers of the My Recipe Book that bought and donated their $10 to our chosen charity!

Clue 1 : a missing ingredient.

Clue 2: Same ingredient of Clue 1 , a different recipe and the amount is just way too much.

Clue 3: Wrong method of cooking.

Tune in to DJ Honey Show on Kristal FM on Friday Morning 8th May 2009. The answers will finally be revealed! Full versions of the three recipes will be uploaded on Senor Pablo's blog after the quiz.

Prizes: Bunny Yummies will sponsor 3 prizes for 3 winners of desserts voucher, each up to $40. Wow! A free cake/dessert of your own choice basically.You can choose from her blog.

More clues on Thursday night... So, better get your copy today so that you win a chance to win goodies from Bunny Yummies!!

Stay tune for the winning results soon ...

Latest update . . .

2009-05-04T20:06:00.010+08:00

The much awaited recipe book by the Foodie Bloggers is out! Read here to find out more on how you can get a copy. Please do support us ...all proceeds from the sales will be donated to the Special Olympics Committee.

picture of recipe book is taken from here :)

A week has actually passed when the Ultimate Foodies Bloggers' Challenge took place at Senor Pablo's beautiful crib ...and yeah CQ is the last person in Brunei to upload and tell about the story hehee :)

Well better late than not at all ...so here are the pictures CQ managed to click-snap on the eventful day. It was more like a red carpet event for the sinfully-delicious foodies and recipes, not only from the bloggers but other individual contributors. Cool eh! ...do enjoy the pictures!

Roasted garlic and anchovy dip

steamed tofu

veggie quiche ...??

king prawn tomato

chicken salad ...must try, it's easy and simple

chicken ala Bin Khalid

chicken mandressa :)

macaroons

rose sandwiches

seabass cuts in spoons ...hehe

this is delicious but CQ has forgotten the name (:

It was a perfect Sunday evening to watch some foodies demo by talented young chefs in the garden ...

Winners of the Foodies' Challenge

CQ gets an Award!

2009-04-22T11:07:00.005+08:00

Now, this post is kind of too late ...nevertheless CQ was so touched - well it brought tears to CQ's eyes - and appreciate the warm friendship with this super always-bubbly-cheerful young lady - Azura.

Azura presented this 'Friends' Award to CQ

" These blogs are exceedingly charming. These kind bloggers aim to find and be friends. They are not interested in self-aggrandizement. Our hope is that when the ribbons of these prizes are cut, even more friendships are propagated. Please give more attention to these writers. Deliver this award to 8 bloggers who must choose 8 more. "

Inside scoop - Foodies Bloggers Challenge

2009-04-22T10:41:00.008+08:00

Last night, CQ was so elated when Senor Pablo asked if CQ would like to tag along for food tasting at the nearby Tungku neighbourhood. Ehemm ..of course CQ would not want to miss anything about food .. lols.

It was not a star-studded event though but the food was indeed!! Ok people! start drooling now huhu ...Look! at these creations.

Burger - the beef patties are creatively mixed with some veggies ..

Fish Finger - oohh lala - must come this Sunday to know how it tastes like.

errr CQ forgot the name but sounds like 'Lobster in Saffron Sauce'? A little hint - the saffron sauce is soooo ??? ...hmmm do come to the Challenge to find out OK!

Pasta Picatta - well blend with the chicken fillet

Lamb with Herb Juice - CQ could not even describe in words on how to compliment this recipe - you can ask Senor Pablo - he has the answer. Thumbs up!

Among the other great contenders for this Sunday's Foodies Challenge are these two lovely dishes.

Prawn Bruschetta

Lolita's Macaroni

So, what is happening this Sunday? Food contributors are to come at least before 4.00 pm to showcase their respective dishes. Will start the voting at 4.00 pm. Each person will vote for their top 5 dishes and will award prizes for the top 10 most voted dishes. Voting will stop at 5.00 pm to make way for collating and counting of votes so that winners can be announced by 5.40pm. While votes are being counted, Chef Nash will do a special demo on Mini Burgers.

Anak Brunei, ArabFamilies and Simpur Blogging Nation are contributing 10 prizes!

mobile fone
scented candle
designer inspired lady hand bag
bowl and kitchen utensils
designer platter from I WANNA GO HOME shop in Singapore
Teapot and designer mugs
white platter and small bowls
side dish platter
nasi talam voucher value at $80
mini chocolate fondue set

SO people! Do come to this Ultimate Foodies Bloggers Challenge this Sunday.

Ultimate Foodie Bloggers Challenge

2009-04-16T14:16:00.011+08:00

Do you have a recipe so delicious that you are just dying to share with everyone? What better way to make friends than over good food and drinks?

Come to the ULTIMATE Foodie Challenge where each sexy foodie will contribute one dish for sharing and tasting. In other words, forget your DIET!

The catch is you have to cook the completely by yourself and is willing to share the recipe with everyone.

Why? Because the recipes will then be collected and compiled into a little book made available for everyone! This is your chance at becoming a PUBLISHED author!

The best part of this communal recipe book is it will be sold and all proceeds will go to Special Olympics. For charity! We need all of you to make this happen. Lets cook, share and make friends, for charity.

Though it sounds as if you'd need to be a blogger, this event is NOT exclusive for bloggers! Meaning everyone can join and contribute. SO LETS BRING THE (Pablo's) HOUSE DOWN!

So what are you waiting for? RSVP to the event and send in your recipes to foodiebloggers@gmail.com before the 19th April, 2009!

The Special Olympics Brunei is grateful for your support and the Foodie Bloggers looks forward to seeing you all there!

P/S: AnakBrunei is sponsoring a mobile phone to be won during the event. ;) Ring ring!

Note: Objective of the event is to share in the name of charity plus food tasting minus the diet!

Be safe rather than sorry II

2009-04-14T13:44:00.003+08:00

A couple of hours ago, CQ received this email message (attached with the above picture) from a friend. CQ and that friend do not know the source and credibility of the content ... but beware - it is better to be safe rather than be sorry!

Below is the content of the message:

“Hello there. I just wanted 2 let you know that please stay away from the beaches all around in the month of July. There is a prediction that there will be another tsunami hitting on July 22^nd. It is also when there will be sun eclipse. Predicted that it is going 2 be really bad and countries like Malaysia (Sabah & Sarawak), Singapore, Maldives, Australia, Mauritius, Si Lanka, India, Indonesia, Philippines are going 2 be badly hit. Please try and stay away from the beaches in July. Better 2 be safe than sorry. Please pass the word around. Please also pray for all beings.”

Please be cautious and share.

They Rock!

2009-04-10T10:02:00.004+08:00

A Rock & Roll showcase presented by Esplanade Theatre - featuring Sound Salvation performing 'Come Together' from the Beatles & 'You Really Got Me' from the Kinks.

An awesome show piece by the talented Sound Salvation which CQ sadly had to miss. The crowds which include the young and old had really enjoyed the show. CQ hopes that there will more showcases or concerts of this kind featuring many more talented bands in the future.

Well done! Sound Salvation - you rock!

Be safe rather than sorry

2009-04-10T09:12:00.002+08:00

Last Wednesday night, CQ welcomed a long term in-house guests - a fire blanket and one fire extinguisher.

Finally, JKR had made the move to commissioned a private company to equip all Government quarters and houses with free sets of the above items.

Most probable reason to have these fire blanket and fire extinguisher is due to the fact that in the past year, we have seen or witnessed some of the worst fires in the country. Thumbs up for the effort.

Hopefully private home owners will also make the move to have these items in their homes. It is better to be safe now than be sorry later.

Hantaran

2009-04-06T19:54:00.008+08:00

* * * * * * * * * *

Where is the Mak Andam??

After their Akad Nikah, this elegant couple were led to the specially decorated dais to pose some memorable pictures with families and friends.

When attending to weddings as such, CQ loves to see how these blissfully couples pose for their pictures. Usually professional photographers are hired to capture beautiful and awesome poses of the Mister & Missus, choreographed by the Mak Andam or her assistant (lady-in-waiting).

Sadly for the above couple, the Mak Andam has rushed off before the photo-taking session begins. Though brilliantly dressed in their Akad Nikah costumes ...unfortunately, the above wedded couple were not assisted to pose nicely on the dais. They looked helplessly awkward standing on the dais with a kaku (stiff) pose.

Hello Makcik Mak Andam ...where were you? You were suppose to guide the couple how to do some nice poses and not just leave them stranded on their own ...huhuu - you are fired!

Cuddly pandas

2009-04-02T10:56:00.004+08:00

A friend emailed CQ these photos of cuddly pandas that are bred in China. Pandas are said to be a symbol of peace in China and probably around the globe too.

Considered endangered species, pandas are on the verge of extinction all around the world.

Female pandas are called sows, males are called boars and the young ones are called cubs.

Pandas are mammals. They have large heads, heavy body, rounded ears and short tails.

SelebritiTV

2009-03-30T23:52:00.000+08:00

A Malay-owned web-Tv was recently launched at the Singapore Expo Hall 6 on 22 March 2009.

SelebritiTV is an interactive community online channel. You can also join as a member on theReal.TV. Sign up today!

" The Malay entertainment 'Youtube' is here ! Now you can watch, upload and share videos for free on selebritiTV. Go to www.selebriti.thereal.tv and create your own channels. SelebritiTV is another value add public service by Selebriti magazine. Public and aspiring stars are invited to upload their videos and works in there.

Enjoy selebritiTV, where we will upload all of our recorded interviews and events. Your support decides how exponential is our media growth in Singapore.

SelebritiTV - connecting people through videos.

Salam Selebriti, Fahmi Rais "

Fahmi Rais was VP MediaCorp Suria and Channel Consultant for Sensasi. He has been in the media business since 1995 and he launched his 3rd TV, selebritiTV - a webTV service. In addition, he owns and manages 3 other Selebriti brands - magazine, online and Premier Club card. He is also the President of the Protem Committee of the proposed Malay Artistes Association (Singapore).

Fahmi and CQ were former classmates during our college years in the Lion City.

Gosh!!

2009-03-30T23:38:00.003+08:00

While waiting at the traffic lights junction early this morning, and you casually turn your head to your left - it is either you throw a smile, gasped in shock! or you could just laugh out real loud.

Well, what did CQ see that she almost choked on her own laughter?

A lady driver enjoying her huge hiPPo yawns! ai yai yai ... Now that is soooo embarrassing!

Got tagged?

2009-03-22T11:08:00.001+08:00

CQ was tagged by the bubbly and adorable Mrs. D huhuhu ...

1. What were you doing five years ago?

That will be in March 2004 - still employed at The Empire Hotel & Country Club.

2. What were the 5 things on your to do list today?
i) To attend a 'nikah' ceremony at 2pm
ii) House chores
iii) Surf internet and play online games huhu
iv) Need to think what to cook for dinner :)
v) Watch TV

3. What are 5 snacks that you enjoy?
i) Toast with peanut butter and susu manis
ii) Chocolates
iii) Fruits
iv) Prawn crackers dip in chili sauce
v) Curry-pap (triangular shaped - not samosa ahh)

4. What are 5 jobs you've had?
i) Part-time QC Line Operator in Mitsubishi Co. (SG)
ii) Passenger Agents with SATS - SG
iii) Customer Services Agent in SIN-RBA
iv) Admin Officer at OGH
v) HR Officer at TEHCC

5. Tag 5 person and who are they?
CQ will break the rule - tag no one ..hehee

Sound Salvation

2009-03-21T12:28:00.007+08:00

CQ has been invited to a concert - On the Waterfront with Sound Salvation - in the Lion City. Yuhooo ... unfortunately, CQ will not be able to attend.

Sound Salvation, is one of the few talented local band groups in Singapore. Band members are Andry Sani - Vocals, Azhar Yusof - Lead Guitar, Aryan Siswanto - 2nd Guitar, Juana Bajuri -Bass and Khuzairi Supari on Drums.

The band has recently been reviewed in the March 2009 issue of the MANJA magazine.

Sound Salvation will be performing Live! at the Esplanade Outdoor Theartre, Singapore on Sunday, 5 April 2009 from 7.30pm to 9.30pm. Admission is Free!

To commemorate the release of their latest album 'Rock & Roll Milik Sama' and presenting a tribute to Rock & Roll, Sound Salvation will be doing covers from the Beatles, Jimi Hendrix, David Bowie, Billy Idol, The Doors & many more.

So, if you are in the Lion City on the said date, do come and lax yourself with family and friends at the Esplanade and enjoy the hopefully-no-rain-beautiful night to the beat of rock & roll.

Enjoy their video ..

Happy Weekend

2009-03-21T11:11:00.001+08:00

Just Peanuts

2009-03-21T03:21:00.005+08:00

A tour bus driver is driving a bus load of seniors down a highway when he is tapped on his shoulder by a little old lady. She offers him a handful of peanuts, which he gratefully munches.

After about 15 minutes, she taps his shoulder again and she hands him another handful of peanuts. She repeats this gesture about five more times.

When she is a about to hand him another batch again, he asks the little old lady; "Why don't you eat the peanuts yourself.

"We can't chew the because we've not teeth." she replied.

The puzzled driver asks again, "Why do you buy them then?

The old lady replied; " We just love the chocolate around them."

When two hearts meet

2009-03-15T00:37:00.006+08:00

Rain or no rain, when you are getting married, nothing can stop you =)

Just hours ago, CQ attended the majlis persandingan of Wan Hashida and Syed Abdul Jabbar in Sengkurong. It was raining quite heavily but the wedding ceremony was such a joyful one for both the blissfully wedded couple and their families.

Syed Abdul Jabbar & Wan Hashida

Love is like a butterfly. Beautiful Wan Hashida chose lanky and handsome Syed Abdul Jabbar to be her soul mate.

Bagai pinang di-belah dua, where they met, CQ has no idea hehee. CQ wish both of you a very happy and prosperous life together. May you be blessed with many tots in tow heheee ...

more on CQ's facebook =)

Take the best of it!

2009-03-14T08:12:00.010+08:00

If you don't have any objective in life, any cause could be one.

There is always one who suffers more than you do,
so you should be optimistic.

A man will continue to act like a child until his mother's death,
then he will age in a sudden.

When you love your enemy is when he feels of his emptiness.

If you have been betrayed from behind the scene,
then you should be proud because
you are the only one who is in front.

The soft words are more powerful than the naked truth.

We are all like the bright moon, we still have the darker side.

The eye which doesn't know the meaning of tears,
it doesn't know anything of value.

Don't challenge someone who has nothing to lose.

If the loser keeps his smile,
the winner will loose the thrill of victory.

The gift of gab is a proof of jealousy.

No benefit of a right without a left.

The panic from a catastrophe is another catastrophe.

The smile a famous word without letters.

Be cheerful when getting-out as when you are coming-in.

Don't be a critic to your wife's taste,
she is the one who selected you in the first place.

You can't chase worries flying over your head but
you can do preventing them from nesting in your head.

The impossible can never become possible.

Dive with the shark but beware not to be swallowed.

Elocution is an art so let listening be a similar art.

The demeanour will be thrilled in finding
out a mistake of his great rival.

Every minute of anger will get you one more year older.

We have nostalgia of the past because it is gone.
If it comes back we would hate it.

The one whose ambition is great, so is his worries.

People feel small in the presence of some of the great personality,
yet the greatest is the one who let all around him feel great as well.

Chase two birds at the same time and you will lose both.

The woman is half the society and
the one who educates the other half.

For every word there is a listener and
probably my words don't suit your ears.
So please don't accuse me of being ambiguous.

Better set your path with a smile than with a sword.

As more higher up one rises to as
more clouds and problems will surround him.

Don't argue with an ignorant,
for it will be hard for people to differentiate between you.

The failure in planning will lead to planning in failure.

The coward will find 36 solutions to his problems
but the one he will like most is fleeing.

Better being a cub in the family of lions
than being a king of ostriches.

If you listen to the telltale you will lose the friend.

shared by kind_man

Addicted!

2009-03-12T10:32:00.005+08:00

It has been awhile since the last time CQ updated this humble blog hehee. Well, CQ has a new virtual pet name Maxine - yeah a cute little French cat on FB! lols and CQ has been soooo addicted playing with her.

Maxine likes to visit her friends and even unknown pets in the cafe hahahahaa ...yeah to make $. Most - infact majority of the pets have furnished their homes beautifully with rooms that even CQ's real life casa impian cannot match ... hahaaa

These virtual pets do dress to kill! A few would be going about 'naked' .. lols with just a pair of shoes or a headress. Some do dress up like - fictional or unimaginable characters from the past or into the future. For instance, there's one panda pet that has horns?? hahaha. Besides, the pets get to run in races or place bets at the stadium; buy their own food; go shopping at the furniture or DIY shops and walk about the neighbourhood to collect coins from trees - how awesome! lols - yeah CQ is so sakai =)

**********

On a serious note, CQ was sooo disturbed by the news on radio - yesterday - that a newly born baby was thrown away like some rubbish by the mother! How uncivilised and inhumane she was!

So as Not to add up anymore of her sins (God knows), why can't she just give the baby to the relevant welfare department or any civilised person, instead of placing her very own flesh and blood in a black plastic bag and dumped it?!!

Well, this is not something new to have happened - in this tragic sometimes almost magic awful beautiful world.

?????????

Lesung & Cobek

2009-03-05T11:29:00.004+08:00

In the olden days or rather during veteran mothers' era - lols - it is not uncommon to see this handy non-electric kitchen tool - aka the twin - mortar and pestle in most households.

mortar and pestle aka batu lesung dan anaknya lols

Mortar is the bowl while pestle is the heavy stick. This tool set is made either from stone, wood, marble or even brass. It comes in different sizes and shapes.

A mortar and pestle act as your manual food processor and is used to crush or grind any type of food or ingredients like peppercorns or even mix-crush garlic, ginger and shallots. It may not be as smooth as when you are blender-ing or grinding them with food processor or electric grinder. The minimal crushed ingredients can give out some ummpphh aromas to your cooking.

Besides, you can also make sambal or paste using the mortar and pestle. It will taste totally different.

Cobek set

You are in control of the mortar and pestle. Be gentle but firm when grinding or crushing. Whatever you do, don't beat down or letting out your steam of anger on it.

Place the food in the mortar (bowl), then use some downward pressure over the food with the pestle (pounder) and turn it in a circular motion around the mortar. The pestle will catch the food and grind it.

It is so easy and you will get used to it pretty quickly. To keep the surface of the mortar smooth, do pound some grated coconut in it - before or after using.

Ikan Merah Masak Bali

CQ wants to share a simple dish that requires you to use the mortar and pestle set to grind the ingredients.

Pound 3 cloves of garlic and 2 seeded red chillies. Put aside. Sautee the mixture til fragrance and add 4 large chopped tomatoes and fry well. Five minutes later, add 2 tablespoons of tomato ketchup, season accordingly and stir well. Then add the fish - fried much earlier. Enjoy with hot rice =)

2009/2010 session

2009-03-02T09:49:00.008+08:00

Thanks to Al-Mighty, Kimchi has been accepted into PTE Katok for the 2009/2010 session.

Kimchi attends the two-days orientation today at 7.30am. She is so excited to making new friends, meeting new teachers and of course reading up new syllabuses for her 'A' Levels subjects.

Grab the opportunity to realize your dreams Kimchi. Make it happen for the chance may never come twice. Ayah and Mama will always be there to encourage, motivate and support you!

Kimchi's letter of acceptance to PTE Katok

When you keep saying you are busy, then you are never free. When you keep saying you have no time, then you will never have time. When you keep saying that you will do it tomorrow, then your tomorrow will or may never come. Therefore, you have to study and work hard today for your tomorrow's dreams!

Catching on their dreams

2009-02-27T22:52:00.003+08:00

Every good things in life takes time and there is no limit on how much time it might need. It maybe a week, a month or maybe a year ... but see, none of that really matter cause if it's meant to be, it will happen.

Therefore be a powerful thinker! Catch your dreams. Fulfill your childhood ambition! And be that one person you will be proud to be - some day.

Rara and the Twins - Khayree and Khalis departed to Kuala Lumpur, this evening in pursuit of their dreams. Taking Fashion and Business foundation programmes respectively, the trio will be away from home for several months to come. Families and close friends sent them off at the airport.

CQ wishes Rara and the Twins all the best in their studies abroad.

! live here

2009-02-26T17:02:00.003+08:00

Silver Jubilee

2009-02-23T17:16:00.005+08:00

Happy Silver Jubilee Birthday
to Brunei Darussalam
in conjunction with her 25th National Day celebration

Mount Santubong

2009-02-23T00:35:00.007+08:00

The Mount Santubong is located in the north of the Sarawak State. It is a popular tourist attraction. Avid climbers can ascent the mountain after registering themselves at the administration office. It takes about 3 to 4 hours to reach the summit.

The Santubong beach commands a panoramic view of the South China Seas

The Kerak Island

The legendary Mount Santubong lies majestically in the background and has a home-stay for guests.

The Damai Beach Resort
.. with an ambience that is cool and relaxing

The Mount Santubong in the background .. snap-clicked from the Damai Beach Resort

Couples - do spend your annual honeymoon vacations here =)

Cat Museum

2009-02-22T21:58:00.001+08:00

You may wonder how did Kuching City got its name. Kuching means cat in Malay language. In those days, it is possible that cats were abundant along the Sarawak river bank thus it was named Kuching.

In 1839, James Brooke - the first White Rajah of Sarawak - referred to the town as Kuching which might suggest to an old word Cochin or port, as in India or Indochina.

In 1870s, there was a river running through it known as 'Sungai Kuching' as it passed through a hill where was a large growth of fruit trees locally known as 'Mata Kuching'/Isau/Green Longan (Dimocarpus Longan). Thus, it's settled that in 1876 the town became officially known as Kuching - facts taken from the Cat Museum brochure.

The Cat Museum is under the management of Kuching North City Hall, located on the ground floor of the KNCH building.

The Cat Museum has four main galleries and exhibits more than 4,000 cat artifacts including paintings, memorabilias and others from all over the world.

Entrance is free. Unlike any other museum, the Cat Museum allows you to take pictures with your digi-cam or video-cam but with fees of RM4.00 and RM5.00 respectively ..cool eh! CQ managed to snap-click almost 70% of the entire museum ..lols

Enjoy some of the pictures ...for true cat lovers! do visit the museum when you are in the city.

ahaaa newest addition - live mommy cat and her kitten hahaa

awwww so cute

Morning Satay

2009-02-22T17:31:00.007+08:00

Kimchi loves the History subject, so we visited the Sarawak Museum in Kuching. Entrance is free.

These are museum buildings too - National Museum and Art Museum. Had it not rained heavily, we would have made a visit to the War Memorial Park - just a walking distance away.

A view from our hotel window - in the background is the Kampong Boyan. It is accessible by a sampan ride and takes less than 2 minutes to cross the river from the jetty at the waterfront point. Fee is like RM0.50 cents per person.

In the foreground is the James Brooke Cafe. James Brooke - a significant character in the histories of Eastern Malaysia and Brunei. Do read History books to find out more =)

Night view of the waterfront from the Kampong Boyan's sampan jetty.

CQ visited Kedai Kek Lapis Dayang Salhah - a small enterprise selling kek lapis Sarawak - at Kampong Boyan. It is said to start out in the home of Dayang Salhah and as demand for her kek lapis Sarawak increases, she move her back-of-the-house-factory to a bigger one elsewhere.

Visitors or buyers included the Royals, superstars and those from the Peninsular Malaysia. During Ramadhan, business is a boom for this small cake enterprise.

Intending buyers and customers are allowed to sample the various types of kek lapis (layered cakes) in the living room before they are led to another room to make their purchases.

Prices range from RM10.00 - RM 40.00. There are also different types of colourful kek roll.

Next day CQ did some shopping at Spring - a new shopping centre. There are several eateries to choose from. So we chose to have Teppanyaki - for lunch - at the food court on ground floor.

CQ's Salmon Teppanyaki set meal

Bigboss & Kimchi opted for Chicken Teppanyaki set meal

Shitake Mushroom

Friends in Kuching treated CQ and family to two days of super breakfast while we were in Kuching. The roti canai and nan garlic are not to be missed besides the local dish - laksa Sarawak.

Another place to enjoy the local ayam golek and seafood is at the Saddap Court - err sorry forget to snap click lah hehee .. hmm thumbs up for the ikan pari panggang!

The last morning before CQ headed back to Sibu, we had our breakfast at Satay Ceko Cafe. Satay for breakfast?? Well, it is a breakfast menu for the locals. The satay gravy is superb so don't miss it when you are in Kuching! It is in Jalan Satok.

Bigboss gave Abang Nawi and Fendi a little chuckle when he had to eat satay early in the morning for breakfast ...lols.

Be essentially equipped

2009-02-22T13:16:00.010+08:00

CQ's second leg (466km) of the approximate total of 886km long drive up to Kuching - from Sibu, took about seven hours plus stops at a petrol kiosk and resting for lunch in Pekan Serian.

There are more than just having fun adventure and experience driving on a long journey. You have to plan ahead and not only be physically fit but mentally too. Ensure that there is another family member who can drive so that the chief driver can take some cat naps after few hundreds kilometres of non-stop driving.

While driving and concentrating on the roads ahead, you can also enjoy the scenic views and many if not all, the kind of life that lies within this region filled with beautiful and luscious greenery.

In fact, Kuching boasts quite a number of National Parks - Tanjung Datu National Park, Batang Ai National Park and Wildlife Centres - Semenggok Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre and Matang Wildlife Centre.

Occasional sights of terraced of sireh (betel) leaves creeping on stumped trees or poles, thick hilly virgin forests and jungles, palm trees plantations and mills, logging mills, shrubs, old huts standing tall on padi fields, schools, kampongs and different types of longhouses can be seen on either sides of the roads.

Be sure to put together an emergency kit in your car that will save you any grief if you ever got stranded or encounter problems (God forbid) on the road. The kit could include - flashlights with working batteries, jumper cables, duct tape, a container for petrol (optional), car jack and spare tyre. It would be a plus if you have a mechanic's head too.

Can you imagine this long trailer is overtaking vehicles that are supposed to be 'faster' than the trailer itself? It is so common tho'.

When driving on the long roads that seems to have no ends - do be careful as there could be road works ahead and when overtaking heavy vehicles - especially if you are driving at night as hazards may be out of your headlight range. If it rains, reduce speed. Ensure that your front and back wipers work properly. Use the light from oncoming vehicles ahead to gain clues on road curves and bends. Watch for road signs and white lines for further guidance.

Besides, you and your co-driver must be sharp- minded - making sure your brain cells are activated to think fast and be alert at all times, sharp eyes to navigate, read maps and road signs. To add fun and joy-ment to the long journey, bring along good music cee-dees.

If you have small children, do pack some travel essentials like a foodie bag of non-perishables - cereal, biscuits, packets of juices and other lights snacks to ward off hunger pangs. Do not forget (bottled) water and a bag of toys - PSP or games, books and gadgets to kill any boredom or distraction in the children. A set of medicine essentials - liquid paracetamol for fevers, wet wipes, lozenges and anti-bacterial sanitiser - can be handy too in any less extreme circumstances.

Do dress light and comfortably - with proper footwear. CQ and family did enjoy our long drive trip to Kuching. Planning soon for a drive up to Labuan =) ?? Let's think how yeah!

Rugged with Korando!

2009-02-17T21:52:00.011+08:00

When you buy something new, you ought to put it to a test, right? Therefore, CQ's Korando is being tested with some rugged long road trip to Kuching ..huhu

Along the journey, Bigboss, Kimchi and CQ encountered countless of oohhhs, aahhhhs and weeees hahaha ...what's that? Well, the roads are not that smooth but driving Korando gave us the thrills and adrenalin rush at most of the time.

Enjoy the pictures ...

The queue at the Sungai Tujoh immigration checkpoint was fine - no waiting.

Along the highways to Bintulu, we saw many long trailers and other heavy vehicles.

Palm trees

These trees have the so-ghostly look

A mosque along the Bintulu highway

A primary school

After a journey of 207km in 3 hours from Miri town, we finally arrived at Bintulu at about 2.30pm. We had our light lunch at a Lesung Restaurant in the Commercial District area.

WOW! This sign board is displayed just at the entrance to the restaurant hahaha

Teh Tarik Dangdut!!

French Toast Cheese

Roti Canai Robinhood? That's the name huhu ..

Our Korando got mental breakdown! Jeles lahh ..she wanted to have a 'drink' at the nearby workshop pulak ...and cost CQ RM75!

One of the many longhouses we saw along our journey

Oh! a few areas experienced landslides - maybe due to the recent heavy rain

long roads aahead

Alhamdulillah we arrived Sibu approximately at about 8pm - after a tiring drive of 213km from Bintulu. It took us about 3 hours.

Looking around for a hotel to spend the night before continuing our onwards journey to Kuching. We decided on RH Hotel. Clean. Safe. Cheap!

Good Night!

Brunei Polar Girls

2009-02-13T23:00:00.007+08:00

Now isn't that amazing? Girls-ladies-women again! Yeah ...we will do it again!

God willing, two Bruneian ladies - dubbed The Polar Girls - will be joining the Commonwealth Women's Antarctic Expedition to the South pole!!

A Fund-raising Walk will take place at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium on Sunday, 15th February 2009. Let us give these two ladies the support in realising a dream-of-a-lifetime and to accomplish a near-impossible feat that will put Brunei on the world map, once again!

Way to go Polar Girls! Brunei is proud of you!

Teach someone you love to blog

2009-02-13T19:47:00.007+08:00

Another love + communication event - teach someone you love to blog by Global Voices Online. So, CQ is so happy to be on the list of bloggers being tagged again huhu ... just follow these instructions!

Step 1: You're never alone with a blog. Tell your readers why you love them, and why they should love you.

I love my readers because without their loyal readership, I will never get positive comments and the continued inspiration to write and think creatively. Besides, I enjoyed sharing 'unexpected' thoughts and the wonderful friendships I have made through my blog.

Why you must love me? Lol .. So that you can see and understand how I relate through my thinking and writing as - I believe that two people can look at the exact same thing and see something totally different.

Step 2: Teach someone you love to blog (or micro-blog!).

Goodness me ... I have not taught anyone yet (no one has ask CQ) but had advised Kimchi on how she should make her blog as informative as it is creative and interesting. Above all, by reading good and great blogs, she could improve on her English writing and increase her vocabulary.

Step 3: Link to their first blog post, and encourage readers to visit them. Use this tag: #SMK [social media kisses]

SMK - newbie-beginner-freshman blogger =)

Step 4: Tag your blogging friends to take part in this meme.

Daniel Yoleh

Salwana

Gembo

Syafi & Safiya

Muaz Rashid

Zayn Sabri

Dr. Hans

Mommy says ...

2009-02-13T11:04:00.008+08:00

.. be smart! When you are tending to your everyday-never-ending house chores, it can take most of your time and you end up with little or no quality time for yourself!

With young toddlers or children to care and attend too, you will have to make extra efforts in keeping minimal mess around the house huhu .. thus CQ wants to share a few tips hehee .. err especially for mommies without helpers =)

Easy meal times
Young children are bound to make a mess during meal times. Once they finish their meals, bits of rice or food will be scattered on the floor with-in one-metre radius from where the child has been eating. So, why not spread the floor with old newspapers? Then all you have to do after your child had his/her meal is gather up and throw the papers away, without you getting down on your knees to wipe up the mess!

Glass act
Cleaning up broken glasses can be so malas (lazy) ehh. Usually you will slip on rubber gloves and pick up the big shards, right? Then wet a few paper towels and wipe across the floor to catch splinters. Oppps! No paper towels?? Then try using moistened bread! huhu ...

Clutter control
Sometimes you don't have the time to even clean your living room. Thus, TV advertisement breaks will help you to complete the task in small doses. An hour-long drama usually has three to four breaks, so you can pick up your children's toys or the newspaper and magazines back to where they belong; wipe surfaces with a damp cloth or pick up bits of rubbish that had fallen on the carpet. By the time the show is over, you may already be vacuuming the floor!

... and when the children are having their daytime nap, you can enjoy updating your blog huhu ..

Yuhoo!

2009-02-11T07:23:00.017+08:00

CQ is on cloud nine - more like heads over heels? Yuhoo! Too much?? Naaah ..anyway, it does not happen everyday - to have your blog be bumped into by a Writer who has written best-selling business books. Yuhoo!

Remember this book? Hehehe the writer - Pearlin Siow - somehow made her way to Ciliqueen's humble blog - Yuhoo! And she even left a comment!

A fellow blogger once asked CQ if the book - Boss of Me! is sold in any of the local bookstores but CQ could not confirm on that. Well, if anyone makes a trip to the Lion City, make sure you do get the book to add to your library.

Pearlin Siow's 'Sleep & Get Rich' is also a must-read book.

You can visit her blog too - to know more about her =)

2009-02-10T21:18:00.004+08:00

Aids Warning

This Breaking News has just came iN!

Senior Citizens are the World's Leading Carriers of Aids!

Hearing Aids

Band Aids

Roll Aids

Walking Aids

Medical Aids

Government Aids

And Most of ALL

MONETARY AIDS TO THEIR KIDS!

New Harley Davidson model for Senior Citizens

To get some humour out of life .. smile folks!

Life is like a Hot Bath,
The longer You stay in it,
The more wrinkled You get.

CQ loves to see You SMILE!

Grow old gracefully,
grow happily with your age,

Not forgetting the HIV - Hair is Vanishing

lols

Chewy Junior

2009-02-08T14:15:00.008+08:00

You may have seen or tasted mini muffins, mini cupcakes and even mini cream puffs. They can be so lovely and cute-cute that you are tempted to frame them up and hang on your kitchen walls huhuhu ...

While in Bugis Junction Mall last January, CQ found these Chewy Junior cream puffs, not only are they in mini size, they came in varieties of flavors too - ada durian, apple, blueberry, pineapple, strawberry cheese and chocolate with nuts to name a few.

This box of small chewy cream puffs costs $7.50 with different flavors.

* * * * * * *

These minis look familiar isn't it? Okies ...CQ came by to this casa last week and was served with a plate of cold mini cuppies and that little squares - the more they 'aged', the better they taste =) and they are gone in just few minutes ...mana inda kalau di-gobbled up by Bigboss, Kimchi, SP and Bunny jua ...ohh Mrs. Sam and her kids jua kali ahhh =)

This is a bread. Usually the fillings are just cream but this one got ube lah - can see the purper kara? ...aku buleh santai2 makan ruti ani atas krusi kayu Bali di umah ani ...dengan angin sipoi2 huhu ..apakann wrong channel tia!

Anyway, CQ forgot the name of this bread but it rhymes with Esmeralda? maybe ...huhu ..sorry it is not sold here (ya kann?) - far far away.

Partners in crime!

2009-02-06T23:16:00.008+08:00

It was drizzling the whole day. You can either hibernate or laze on your couch and watch movies all day long. CQ is enjoying home life lah huhu ...

Cold weather like this always makes CQ feeling hungry hehee ...so for dinner, CQ whipped up Queen Za's heavenly Black Pepper Spaghetti. It is so simple and you can even cook it when you have impromptu guests.

Ingredients:
1 packet of thin spaghetti - boiled and drained well
1 packet of crab meat - wedged or cut into 3's
5 cloves of garlic - minced
5 tbsp of black pepper sauce
4 tbsp of oyster sauce
some shitake mushroom - cleaned and sliced
1 tbsp of chopped spring onion
1 red chilli - sliced

How you cook it:
1. Sautee the minced garlic till fragrant, then add crab meat and stir well.
2. Add the sauces and shitake mushroom. Fry thoroughly and season accordingly.
3. A few minutes later, put in the spaghetti, spring onion and red chili. Stir well.

Partners in crime for the Black Pepper Spaghetti is of course the Black Pepper Buffalo Wings - not that buffaloes have wings =) - but they are large-sized chicken wings huhu.

Marinate the chicken wings in a bowl with pounded 2 cloves garlic and half inch ginger. Add 4 tbsp of black pepper sauce. After 2 hours, you can oven-grill the chicken wings till cooked. hmmm yummmy =) or you can also opt to grill or barbecue a whole chicken in percik sauce.

Carpark Full

2009-02-06T00:08:00.006+08:00

Finding a parking space can at times be a dreadful experience - especially at the one basement in Gadong.

Not once but a couple of times - when it comes to weekends or public holidays or if there is any event that could catch the attention of people to flock to that area - CQ could not find a parking space after PAYING $2 per-entry fee at the entrance booth.

At times during peak season period and knowing that the car park basement will be full, CQ will always ask Mr. Entrance-Booth-Man if he is sure there are still parking spaces in the basement .. he will always reply 'ada, ada lagi..' but yet you will witness a scenario of cars roaming around the basement looking for vacant spaces ..some can even park suka-suka at odd angle space.

So what happens when one can-Not find a parking space and has to exit? Do you get a refund of the $2 fee? It did NOT say 'non-refundable' on the small paper-ticket if there is no more parking space... so can refund lah? If not, then CQ has been 'robbed' ...

There is one multi-storey parking lot that has caught CQ's attention. It is well organized and so easy for one to locate any vacant parking space.

Those red lights lined above the cars indicate that each parking spaces are not available. The light will turn green if it is vacant. Cool =)

Can we have parking lots like this? We pay parking or entrance fees, therefore we deserve good and reliable management of the parking lots ..and of course with drivers that understand parking lots ethics!

Always a friend =)

2009-02-04T22:55:00.003+08:00

Someone shared the above with CQ
- literally it means - no matter who your friends are
..whether they are like bumble bees,
bed of roses,
jug of water,
moo-moo like cows,
sharpie like durians or
yummy biscuits
- they are still your friends.
Why? Because once you have made friends,
they will always be your friends.

PTE Katok

2009-02-02T22:13:00.007+08:00

Yesterday, CQ went to have a look at the newly opened PTE Katok (Form Six Center) in Katok Gadong.

It boasts modern architectural features. Unfortunately, CQ was only able to click-snap from outside the perimeter.

Today, Kimchi registered herself at the PTE Katok. There were more than 200 students who came to register in the morning session. Wow .... but sorry no pictures heheee CQ was so busy talking with the subjects consultants. It was very informative.

Students were interviewed and advised on the options that they can opt for for their 'A' Level subjects - based on their recent 'O' Levels results.

This is to ensure the students have opted for the correct combination of subjects that suit their career path.

Now, all CQ can do is to wait for the result of Kimchi's acceptance into PTE Katok, God's Willing. Amin.

The PTE Katok stadium

Boss of Me

2009-01-31T11:42:00.003+08:00

How would you define success? What are the secret power to success? Success does not mean you just have to excel in academics and earn lots of money BUT to also achieve what you love doing and strive to be that someone respected by society.

To some, success means -

Try everything as you only have one life, no rehearsals.
Believe in yourself and always be nice.
Always give back more than you take.
Have passion and everything will fall in place.
Don't let adversity get you down, keep going forward.
Thrive on challenges, not money.
Believe that money and fame should Not be motivating factors.
...and many more secrets that you can unlocked yourself!

CQ came across this book by chance, while waiting for Kimchi to pay for our purchases in a bookstore during our recent trip to Singapore.

Written in simple English, this book tells about people who pursued their dream jobs with dynamic combination of bravery, support from families and friends and lots of drive and determination.

What they had achieved can be done in many different fields and you too can transform your passion into something profitable. Their incredible stories and real-life advice will open up your mind to thinking BiG and out of the box!

Among the movers and shakers in this book include a primary school dropout who turned his life around by becoming a much-sought-after photographer (earning $80,000.00 a day); a female medical researcher who is among Top 50 List of the 2008 World's Most Influential Headhunters and a mobile deejay who was inspired by international deejays and finally rose to his success and deejaying all over Asia, Europe and North America.

The Author - Pearlin Siow started out as a journalist. Currently she is a pilates instructor and still writes for a few local publications in Singapore.

It is a very motivational and inspirational book for everyone to read. You can never know that you can even make millions from just selling curry puffs =)

She made us proud.

2009-01-30T10:30:00.010+08:00

Kimchi did her parents proud once again. Alhamdulillah - She obtained six 'O's in the 2008 GCE 'O' Levels Exams.

Just like any other parents, Bigboss and CQ were anxious about Kimchi's results. So yesterday when the news of the 2008 GCE 'O' Levels results broke loose, CQ went with Kimchi to Sekolah Menengah Rimba to check on the results. Original slip will be given at a later date.

Congratulations Kimchi! You got yourself a 'ticket' to move on to the next level - the road to achieve your dreams.

Kimchi may not be a straight 'A's student but it was through her self-motivation, determination, ambition and long hours of revision and of course turbo-packed with CQ's constant yet friendly and worthwhile bla-bla-blas that she scored the good results.

Thinking back, Bigboss was quite worried when Kimchi was down with a bad flu in between her major exam papers last year. So we decided to bring her to a clinic for an antibiotic jab. The following morning, Kimchi was able to catch some revisions before sitting for her few final exam papers.

Bigboss and CQ are very proud of Kimchi. We will always support her in whatever field she wants to excel and enjoys doing.

Remember! it is your attitude and ambition - not good grades - that make you who you are in the future (Dr. Lisa Ng) . Success is in your hands.

eYe the Mee Siam

2009-01-27T21:02:00.016+08:00

It's raining outside.

It is so sad with all that has happened in the past few days ~ flash floods in many areas, blackouts and traffic disruptions ..and what really shocked CQ was the tunnel mentioned here - got drowned by the heavy rain?? Isn't that a pity?

Okiee ...CQ is not an Engineer but Brunei roads deserve good drainage and sewerage system plus alternative back-up plans in store or something like that - in order to face or deal with any similar disaster. Relevant people should be able to anticipate what's forthcoming ...

Side tracking ~ fireworks can be heard in a distant ...actually, CQ wanted to share a recipe - Mee Siam. While making a stop at one of CQ's 'jalan-jalan cari makan' hunts in the Lion City, CQ tried the Mee Siam at Kampong Glam Cafe, located near Arab Street. It got 7/10. Not bad.

If you ever reach here - try the lempuk durian too - only $3.50 - sedappp!!

Here's the recipe from CQ's personal cook book huhu ..

Ingredients:
1 packet of bee hoon - soaked
5 tofu - diced (small) and fry
$1.00 bean sprout - cleaned
$0.50cents of daun kucai - cut into length of 1 inch
5 calamansi - cut into halves
a bowl of sambal (cooked cili paste)
5 hard-boiled eggs - cut into halves

Prepare the gravy like this:
Put half of the sambal in a pot and sautee with dried shrimps (pounded), tauchoo (black soya beans), tamarind paste, sugar and add water to half level of the pot. Season to taste.

Originally, the gravy should be a little sweet but you can adjust accordingly to your taste buds.

How to fry the white bee hoon into red colour =)
Sautee 2 tbsp of the sambal, add a cup of water, salt to taste. Bring to boil. Add bean sprouts. After a while add the bee hoon and fry well till dry ...not too dry ahh.

Have fun trying or just enjoy reading =)

Finally, the Singapore Flyer or Eye is in operations again. Urggghhhh ...it is a little too late! A week late! It was shutdown after the 2008 pre-Christmas fire that trapped passengers for hours high up in the sky.

CQ snap-clicked this view from a roof-top - somewhere in Arab Street.

Night view from the Pan-Island Expressway

Enter the Ox!

2009-01-26T14:45:00.011+08:00

Wishing CQ's Chinese friends an everlasting happiness and prosperity in 2009!

Gong Xi Fa Cai

taken from Google Image

wOw at 44

2009-01-24T12:20:00.004+08:00

Without a single clue, Mdm. Tiff got her 44th surprise birthday celebration at the newly opened Serikandi Cafe & Restaurant in Kiulap last night.

Close families and friends were there to witness the ever-so-cool birthday lady blowing candles on the cuppies-cum-birthday cake with hubby ~ BinKhalid by her side (always there one lehh).

Thanks to Senor Pablo, CQ finally got eye-to-eye with sassy Sasmonroe and adorably cute Maurina and not forgetting E. @Foodietales.

Oooo there was a bloggers camp corner too huhu ..many of whom are the creme de la creme of bloggers ~ Liza, Nonnie, Iskandar, Kurapak duo ~ Alin & Wandi, Rano and few others which CQ could not recognise =) sowiee ..maybe next time CQ will don a chili suit with a tiara heheee.

After filling up our empty stomachs, we were entertained with hilarious jokes by Kumpulan 69 - that jaws were almost jammed with laughter!

Roam the view with no crowds

2009-01-22T21:29:00.009+08:00

Changi Point Coastal Walk boasts beautiful sunsets, lush greenery, century-old trees, 2.6 km boardwalk with pavilions for visitors to rest and enjoy the picturesque view of the facing sea.

The boardwalk starts from the Changi Point Ferry Terminal - where visitors can take bumboats to Pulau Ubin and Pengerang in Johor - and ends close to Andover Road to the west.

Bumboats docking at the ferry terminal.

The wooden walkway is divided into six segments - Sunset Walk (visit in the evening to watch beautiful unblocked sunset), Kelong Walk (this section stands on stilts just like kelongs), Cliff Walk (built on a cliff with parts of it cuts through lush greenery), Beach Walk and the Creek Walk that starts from Changi Village.

Kimchi taking a rest at the pavilion and enjoying the winds.

A bumboat returning to the ferry terminal.

A huge tanker passing by the coast.

Police Coast Guard patroling the sea.

Colourful recycle bins made available for the public use ...isn't that environmental friendly?

Even the bins are painted beautifully.

CQ noticed that every ten minutes, an airplane will fly by ...either arriving or departing.

Changi Village carpark in the evening

It had been ages that CQ last visited Changi Point. It is a place, not only to enjoy the beach walk, scenic views or watching sunset, but to unwind a day's stressnous hours and also to makan some of the best local food ...like nasi lemak huhuhu.

CQ assures that so far it is free from heavy crowds hehehee ...do not know in the near future =)

The untold story ...

2009-01-22T16:54:00.003+08:00

Once upon a time, a man was walking with his wife on a cool sunny Sunday at a park in an unknown city. After walking for sometime, in a distant the man saw a pretty young lady with her cats sitting on a bench.

Not realizing himself, the man had briskly walked up to her direction and tried to woo the cats, "meoww meoww ..."

A minute later, the wife whispered, "miang miang ...abang meow kat kucing ke pompuan tu?"

kwang kwang kwang ....

On a real note, CQ saw 3 three cats with their own stories at 3 different places - in Singapore =). There are many stray cats on the streets of Changi Village area ...a place where CQ used to spend during childhood days.

A black-with-golden-brown-spots cat was creeping up on his dinner - two birds. CQ waited for almost 20 minutes yet the cat was too slow to act on that one of the birds flew away.

Yooh Mr. Cat, if you are to be greedy, you will end up with nothing.

On another day, CQ saw a different black cat peeping behind some hilly grass (picture below) ...yup! spying on his lunch.

Thinking too much to make a decision, the cat ended with a hungry stomach as the bird flew away when few passers-by had gathered behind CQ to see what was CQ doing ...lols.

One evening at the Changi Park beach, CQ saw this white feline was sitting on one of the rocks on the rocky beach bund, probably enjoying the sunset.

Fresh Bulggogi

2009-01-22T12:02:00.007+08:00

Going back to Singapore for holidays means catching up with families, close friends and former colleagues too.

CQ managed to spend some quality hours with best-girlfriends-forever-one-lehh ~ Jen and Shasha at the Fresh Bulggogi, located at the Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2. We were colleagues in RBA back in the late 90s' ...only Jen is still surviving huhuhu ...

Fresh Bulggogi ~ initially CQ had a hard time pronouncing Bulggogi lols. We had BBQ Steamboat.

It's so IT-based because you can place your order through the monitor screen ..oh yes! it comes with a mouse huhu ...like the computer mouse. It is very hip-hop! hehee..

On another day, CQ had late lunch at Secret Recipe @Vivo City with little brother and his family. Tagging along was Queen Za hehee ...

Caesar's Salad ~ it is very finger-licking delicious. And it is much tastier and 'fuller' than those served here =)

Look at what we ordered! Irish Lamb Stew, Ox-tail Stew, Fish & Chips, Grilled Mexican Chicken and Grilled black-pepper Chicken. Pasta Marinara was CQ's lunch.

kiwi and watermelon juices

ice cream for desserts ....adding calories!

CQ's other favorite restaurants include Han River ~ serving Korean table BBQ steamboat that include varieties of sushi and desserts. You can eat till you drop but now diners are given a time limit ..if not they can sit for long hours.

This is a place you can get good steaks. CQ was told (if CQ had heard correctly), Eatzi is a new name for the former Jack's Place?? hmmm if it is...then you should dig-in the steaks! huhuhu

CQ goes makan spree in Geylang

2009-01-20T17:00:00.010+08:00

Singapore is a heaven for food lovers. There are plentiful of restaurants, hawker centres and eateries for you to check out which is among the best.

Eating out in Singapore is never a challenge for people who loves to eat. Seafood is never a miss for most people, like the famous seafood servings in Newton Circus Food Centre ...but CQ was recommended that the best seafood that you can get are those in the Bukit Timah areas, along Upper East Coast Road, Changi Road and also at Simpang Bedok and Bedok Corner.

If you dont like seafood, there are many other local dishes to try out. When back in Singapore, CQ loves to eat the famous old-times dishes like Lontong, Mee Rebus, Mee Siam, Sop Tulang Merah, Mutton Soup and many more. You definitely cannot find them in Brunei ...unless CQ has to cook the heavenly dishes herself the Singapore way =) huhu

Therefore, while back in hometown, CQ went on a makan-makan spree in Geylang Food Centre located next to the wet market. This is said to be a temporary place because the original place, which is just a distance a way, is under going massive renovations.

CQ also found out that the above food stall is famous among the Brunei visitors! Cool eh ...and one of them is a family member from the Arab-Families cuzzies' clan huhu ...can you guess who!?

It is famous for its Nasi Ambeng, Nasi Sambal Goreng, Nasi Rawon and Nasi Jenanan. And since CQ has been craving for Nasi Ambeng, CQ was so ever willing to be in the long queue hehehee.

Let's check it out what CQ bought in a span of three days. The portions can be hefty and packed with calories and saturated fats! Oh well, who cares! Lols.

Nasi Ambeng Sambal Sotong ~ $4.50

Nasi Sambal Goreng ~ $4.50

Mee Goreng ~ $3.00

Banana fritters ~ $3.00

Popiah basah ~ $3.00

CQ loves popiah basah (wet) more than the fried ones. The spicier it is, the possibility of CQ having a popiah basah fiesta is 110% huhu. You can get some of the best popiah basah at Qiji outlets; Tekka Market - at present the place is under going renovations; few of the many Banquet outlets and two food stalls in the Geylang Food Centre.

Dry goods stalls in one section of the Geylang Wet Market.

Escargot anyone?

2009-01-20T10:48:00.008+08:00

Mak Oiii ... Besar nya siput babi nie!!!

Have you ever seen such a gigantic garden snail? Yikes! This not-really-cute snail could measure up to about 14 cm or 6.5 inches in length.

Oh goodness gawd! look at that frontal view! CQ thought it was the mouth but it was not. At a zoomed-in-closer look, the garden snail was actually slithering its way to wherever it was going to ...most probably jalan-jalan cari makan or the nearby book expo huhu

CQ found it when CQ was walking along the roadside near the Singapore Expo Halls. Hmmm the snail must have missed the book expo when it reached the expo hall doors hee hee ...

Kimchi goes to White House?

2009-01-11T01:21:00.004+08:00

Yeah! For a moment Kimchi thought she had really bumped into the newly-elected US President ~ Mr. Barack Obama huhu. Sadly, it was only the life-size cardboard of himself that is being displayed at one of the shopping centres in the Lion city.

Oh well ...hopefully she will get to meet him in person in the near future hehe.

Nasi Lemak

2009-01-11T00:34:00.005+08:00

CQ finally got to savour the so-called famous Singapore's Adam Road's nasi lemak! with few close friends for brunch yesterday at Adam Road Food Centre.

CQ tried the Nasi Lemak Royal Rumble. For five dollars, the dish includes a portion of nasi lemak, sunshine egg, a small portion of fried anchovies, 2 pieces of fried ikan selar, one otah-otah, sambal, 2 slices of cucumber, one piece of fried chicken wing and one begedel (potato ball)! It was worth every cents and CQ 'wrestled' it for a cool 15 minutes :) as if CQ is in WWE ... lols.

Rumours say that this local dish is also well liked by Royals and VIPs from neighbouring countries ...hmmm

2009-01-01T23:28:00.005+08:00

CQ wishes

Happy New Year

2009 has arrived ...Remember!

Life is short, break the rules, forgive and forget quickly,

love truly, laugh uncontrollably and never regret anything

that made You sm!le in 2008.

2009-01-01T23:24:00.002+08:00

Selamat Tinggal

Goodbye

Sayonara

2008