An Engagement Encounter Weekend...

My Fiance and I checked in on Friday evening (20 Jan 2006) at 7.30pm, at this secluded place in Singapore called Punggol. This was the start of our journey to our MARRIAGE... We had to do this "Engagement Encounter Experience (EEE)" weekend in order to get married in Church. As my Fiance is Catholic and I'm a non-Catholic, that was the main reason why we had to do it.

We weren't quite sure what the weekend was going to be like... At first, I thought there will only be about 4 couples attending this, but it turned up to be 30 couples in total. Can you believe that? It was HUGE! We knew what was in-store for us, but we did not know it was tiring, cos' it starts early in the morning with a morning call at about 7.10am, and ends at about 11.30pm. Long day huh?!

The guys slept on the second floor, the girls on the third floor. I had to share a room with another girl. So my room-mate is an Indonesian gal called Patricia. She is really young and fun to talk to. We talked for abit on the first night, and talked even more on the second night... It was fun! Despite the lack of sleep, we still stayed up talking... typical girls huh?! Just can't stop yakking away :o)

Anyway, this EEE is usually conducted by 2 presenting host couples and a priest. They will talk about their own experiences with EEE before they got married, and how it helped their marriage. The Priest will tell us stories of other couples he's seen and their experiences...

This is how the programme is like:

Day 1 (20 January 2006) - Friday
7.30pm: Check-in & Registration (we were given our name tags (with both our names on it with a landyard)
8.30pm: Introduction
9.00pm - 11.30pm: Start of course & couple discussion
11.30pm: Bedtime

Day 2 (21 January 2006) - Saturday
7.10am: Wakeup call
7.40am: Breakfast
8.00 am: Mass
8.45am: Start of Course & Couple Discussion
12.30pm: Lunch
1-3.30pm: Rest/Break/Mingle with other couples
3.30pm-6pm: Course & Couple Discussion
7pm: Dinner
8pm: Couple Prayer & Couple Discussion
10.30pm: Confessions for those who want to
11.30pm: Bedtime

Day 3 (22 January 2006) - Sunday
7.30am: Wakeup call
8.00am: Breakfast
9am-12.45pm: Course & Couple Discussion
12.45-3pm: Lunch & Rest Break
3pm-4.45pm: Couple discussion/and seek for forgiveness (if any)
4.45pm: Mass
5.30pm: Get our cerificates
5.45pm: The End

My dear fiance, smudged his name tag on Saturday, at first it was too bad, could still see our names... but by Sunday... WOAH! It became like this...

By the end of this whole course, I have written more than half the notebook provided (think I blabbered on and on that's why! Hehehe)... My fiance wrote less than me but it was still good enough for me :o)

For all those couples out there who are planning to get married soon, please go to this EEE or Marriage Preparation Course, as it's really really good for you. Really makes you think about what it's going to be like in a marriage. GO FOR IT!!

Another thing settled for the Wedding!!

On Saturday, 14 January 2006, my fiance and I were invited to a Bridal Show at Bridal Veil. The first time I went there, I went alone. Therefore, my fiance had no idea what I was going on about with regards to their wedding gowns and Qipao! Was trying to describe the materials, cut, design and colour to him but he still didn't get it.

Until Saturday, he was like "Wow!" The brocade they use for the Qipao is so BEAUTIFUL! The brocade is imported from Japan, it's the material used for making Kimono. NICE!! My fiance really liked their workmanship and materials, and of course the designer... They are really nice, helpful and friendly. I was even given a bouquet of flowers by one of the models during the show! It was so beautiful!! heheh! Little things in life just make me so happy!!

Anyway, we finally signed up with them, and they will be my bridal gown designers!! :o) I am so excited! Can't wait to go for my first appointment, whereby they will put me in many different gowns to see which cut/design, colour and material suit me best! Talk about professionalism!! It's going to be fun!!!

Going to be PUBLISHED!!!

I CAN'T BELIEVE IT!!

You all must be wondering what am I being so EXCITED about right?? Well, a couple of weeks ago, Bead Bugle, an American beading magazine, that publishes interesting beading projects for people who makes jewellery, sent an email out to us beaders asking for new innovative beading projects to be published in their 2006 magazines.

Me being such an ammatuer in this, wasn't too sure if any of my creations will be of interest to them, decided to send in some of my own creations. I didn't expect them to be interested in any of my projects since I feel that they are just too simple and nothing amazing about them. Anyway, I just received an email from them, and they are interested in 2 of my PROJECTS!! I am so HAPPY!!

I will need to write an article on how I make them and what materials were used to make them. Send it back to them, and they will publish it in their magazine!! Isn't this GREAT??

Won't tell you all which ones they are interested in! Shall be a suspense to you all until I get this done and see it with me own eyes when/if they do publish it!

YAY! My first step to be known worldwide! Can't wait! :o)

MORE EARRINGS...

The title speaks for itself... Yes I have more earrings to put on me blog!! Actually, it's only another 3 pairs...

Two pairs of earrings look quite similar, very bohemian like... As for the last pair, I think they look like Martians!! hahahah! What you reckon??

Take me to Bollywood...

Bollywood

Bollywood (Closeup)

Green Bollywood

Green Twin Martians

Don't these "Green Twin Martians" look cute!! They look like 3-legged aliens!

Blossom is so LUCKY!!!

Everyone must be wondering why Blossom is so lucky!! Well, this is because I've made her more stuff to be shipped off to Alabama...

My hands and fingers were feeling uncomfortable for not making any earrings lately, therefore, I decided to sit down (while watching TV) and start making some earrings for my best mate. I was abit ambitious, thinking that I'll be able to make 3-4 pairs tonight while watching some typical Hong Kong Drama on cable for 1.5hrs. At the end of the show, I managed to only complete 2 pairs of earrings. Even though I didn't manage to hit my target of 3-4 but I'm definitely not disappointed!!

Blossom, tell me what you think of these 2 pairs of earrings ok! These 2 designs were inspired by the magazine Blossom sent to me. I intend to make a pair of Turquoise earrings to match "Turquoise Shell" necklace that I made you (see previous post on "Turquoise Shell") or it can be worn on it's own... All for you only my dear friend!!

"Pink Bubbles" & "Red Lantern" all for you only Blossom...

Pink Bubbles

Pink Bubbles (Closeup)

Red Lantern

These 2 pairs of earrings look very dainty, and will match with almost any outfit, worn for any occasion!

Forgotten Pieces...

Forgotten Pieces!! What are they? I realised that I have forgotten to post some of my earlier earrings that I made when I started this hobby... Looking back, they do really look they were made by an amateur!! hahaha!

Most of you will probably think they look horrible... but that was how I started I guess. Learning as I go along until I make nicer and more presentable accessories. Agree?

Pink Hanger (Still available)

Green Orientals (given to my cousin)

Turquoise Loops (Still available)

Maroon Dangles (made to match one of my outfit)

Pink Chandelier (Taken by Mum's friend)

Red Indians (Taken by Mum's friend)

Turquoise & Greens Chains (Bracelet) (Still available)

I actually like this Turqoise & Greens Chains bracelet alot, and it was my first experiment in making a 4 strand bracelet... Well, if I can't sell it, I may just keep it for myself. :o)

Green Berries to Mickey Mouse Head!!

This is hilarious! Blossom's sister reckons my "Green Berries" necklace looks like Mickey Mouse Head!!

After having a closer look at the closeup picture that I posted for "Green Berries" necklace, it does look like Mickey Mouse Head!! Hahah! But that is if you look at it up close isn't it?!

Should I rip it apart and redo it? Probably NOT! Cos' I actually quite like it when I put it on. It looks quite funky!! heh heh heh! Bloss, thank goodness I didn't make that for you, if not your sis will be laughing at you non-stop!! HAHAH!

Ok let's make a comparison now:

Mickey's Head

Green Berries

Green Berries...

"Green Berries" necklace is made of green, black and brown wooden beads, strung through 4 strands of black string. The colour combination of this necklace, makes me feel so EARTHLY!! hahah! Just love the earthly vibrant colours of this necklace.



This necklace is long, and I reckon it can match many outfits...such as, a white top and jeans, a white dress, a green top, a brown top or even a black top... or can contrast it with a yellow top... Don't you all agree?

Turquoise Shell for Blossom...

Finally, I have started making one of the many for my best mate in Alabama, Blossom...

Actually, she has requested for quite a few things considering the number of tags she stuck in the beading magazine that she sent me... This "Turquoise Shell" necklace is one of them. I have decided to make a few pairs of earrings, 2 necklaces and a bracelet for her (that will save me postage... heheh)!




Well, I managed to find some time to make her a necklace today while my fiance was reading his book. It's been raining all weekend, and all day today. I have to say the rain is pretty heavy and at this moment, while I'm typing this, I can still hear the rain splattering on the window... But the good thing is, the weather is so nice and cool, that set me off in a very nice calm mood. So I've decided to get down and start making Blossom's accessories...Now I can't make my best mate wait too long, can I?! :o)

Blossom, this necklace is for you, please let me know if you like it. If you don't, I will redo and make another one for you... Ain't I nice?! heheheh!

"Turquoise Shell" Necklace

Materials used:

• Turquoise stone rondelles
• Turquoise stone chips
• Shell pendant
• Turquoise Crystal beads
• Blue/green crystal beads

How was my 2005?

Decided to answer some of the questions on my 2005...

What did you do in 2005 thay you'd never done before?

1. Got engaged in New Zealand
2. Going to an extremely beautiful resort called "The Bale" in Bali with my fiance in April, and my very first time in a Spa was there too
3. Getting closer and being more open with my parents

Did you keep your new years' resolutions, and will you make more for next year?

I think I did... Don't think I made any this year heheh

Did anyone close to you give birth?

Yes

Did anyone close to you die?

No

What countries did you visit?

Sweden, Australia, Bali and New Zealand

What would you like to have in 2006 that you lacked in 2005?

1. A wonderful wedding and marriage...
2. To understand and show more care and love for my parents and future in-laws

What date from 2005 will remain etched upon your memory, and why?

20 August 2005... Cos' this was the day my fiance proposed to me :o)

What was your biggest achievement of the year?

1. Getting engaged and going through all the wedding preparations with my fiance and family
2. To be able to spend a wonderful time with my family back in NZ
3. Getting a full body massage in Bali (HA HA)

What was your biggest failure?

1. Being lazy... haha
2. Not showing that I care to my parents and grandmother

Did you suffer illness or injury?

Yes, lots of gastric flu...

What was the best thing you bought?

Too many to be mentioned... I will have to say the pair of Cartier cufflinks I got for my fiance as an engagement present.

Whose behavior merited celebration?

My fiance's sister, she finally got her PhD

Whose behavior made you appalled and depressed?

Being accused of things by closed ones that I've never done or even attempt to do

Where did most of your money go?

Hmmm... tough one... My car loan and apartment maintenance fees

What did you get really, really, really excited about?

1. Being engaged with the love of my life and he not disappointing me at all in anything and everything that he has done...
2. Seeing the happiness in my parents face when I told them we are engaged and the joy I have finally given them
3. Going to Bali for 4 days with my fiance

What song will always remind you of 2005?

Too many to list... I would have to say "Bad Day" by Daniel Powter, "You are Beautiful" by James Blunt and"Wake me up when September Ends" by Green Day cos' these were the songs that my fiance and I have been listening to over the radio when we were on holiday in New Zealand.

Compared to this time last year, are you happier or sadder?

Definitely HAPPIER!!

What do you wish you'd done more of?

1. Being more understanding towards my fiance
2. To show more love and care towards my parents and grandmother
3. To care more for my future in-laws

What do you wish you'd done less of?

1. Being a complete brat at times with my fiance that led to frustration
2. Being a complete brat to my parents and always demanding more from them through my stubborn behaviour

How did you spend Christmas?

1. Having the most sumptuous meal with my fiance, his best mate and wife at Iggy's (Regent Hotel) on Christmas Day! Still can't forget the yummy white truffles and momotaro tomatoes...
2. Buying gifts for my loved ones

Did you fall in love in 2005?

Was already in love but with a deeper affection

How many one-night stands?

WHAAAAAAAAAAT???!!!??!!

What was your favourite TV program?

"Jewel In The Palace" (Da Chang Jin), a Korean drama. A true historical story that happened in Korea. Very touching show! Love it! And of course "Carnivale"! The best!

Do you hate anyone now that you didn't hate this time last year?

Yes...

What was the best book you read?

"Almost French" or was it "Angels and Demons"... Hmmm...

What was your greatest musical discovery?

None... but I went to watch "Mama Mia", does that count??

What did you want and get?

Engaged

What did you want and not get?

Frank Muller watch?? hahah

What was your favourite film of this year?

Hmmm... Most probably "Just Like Heaven"... I liked quite a few movies I watched last year!! How? I'll still list them ok... heh heh!

1. Just Like Heaven
2. The Wedding Date
3. Harry Potter
4. Chronicles of Narnia
5. Wallace and Gromit

Ok the list can go on... shan't bore you with it...

What did you do on your birthday and how old were you?

Went to "Morton's Bar" at The Oriental for drinks and free-flow of beef sandwiches during happy hour with my fiance, Tien Wei and Leslie. Then head off to "Gourmet Plus" at Siglap for dinner with them and Gino, Clare, Juming came to joing us too...

Yummy food!!

DO I REALLY HAVE TO STATE MY AGE!?! NO WAY!

What one thing would have made your year immeasurably more satisfying?

1. To be able to spend more quality time with my fiance
2. Spending more time with my family
3. To travel more

How would you describe your personal fashion concept in 2005?

Lots of vibrant colours (when possible), and elegance... I don't really know... A mixture of everything, depending on occasion.

What kept you sane?

My best friends and my fiance

Which celebrity/ public figure did you fancy the most?

Hmmm... no one in particular. Most probably "Nick Stahl" as Ben Hawkins in Carnivale.

What political issue stirred you the most?

None... not really interested in politics. Hah!

Who did you miss?

All my friends in New Zealand, Australia, Hong Kong, US and UK... To name a few:

- Karen (who just went to UK to live, and of cos' her lovely daughter Erin)
- Blossom (in Alabama, US)
- Ivor (in Auckland, NZ)
- Sharon (in Auckland, NZ)
- Anibal (in Auckland, NZ)
- Richard (Sydney)
- Colin (Hong Kong)
- Brenda (UK)
- Jung Ha (Auckland, NZ)
- Craig (US)
- Qi Wei (Melbourne)
- Chris (Sydney)

And last but not least, all my ex-colleagues in AstraZeneca... Miss you guys!

Who was the best new person you met?

My boss, Sue.

Tell us a valuable life lesson you learned in 2005:

To be more tolerant, understanding, to grow up, facing up to reality and making the biggest decision to get married...

Quote a song lyric that sums up your year:

Can't think of any...

Shopaholic...

Today has been an excellent day out with my best mate...WE WENT SHOPPING!!!

We went to this place called Bugis village. Ok I have to admit, I hardly go to this place cos' it's always so crowded and I thought that there's nothing much at this place. The last time I went there was probably 2 years ago... Anyway, when my best mate and I stepped into this place, we were like "WAAAAAAAAAAAH!!!" This place has like at least 100 shops in there... then we found out there is a 2nd floor... We went "WAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH!!!" again!!

Initially, we thought we will pop in for a short while, just to check it out, but we were there for hours!! And still we could not cover all the shops... So disappointed!

Anyway, I bought so much stuff. My friend helped me carry all my stuff and had a hard time manouvering through the crowd... heheh! Evil smile!!!

But thanks Timothy! You are a great friend! We did have a great time didn't we?? hehehe!

So here's the stash I got for today...


I got these 3 tops from Mickey Mouse shop... Goofy is so cute!!




















A closeup of Mini mouse!!









Ok the rest below were all bought in Bugis Village... really love the skirts...

And the last item I got was a "Far Side 2006 calender" heheh!

Long Black Marbles...

On Christmas Eve, I had some spare time and decided to work on a necklace "Long Black Marbles"... It took me only an hour to complete it while I was watching "Full House" vcd (Korean drama).

Materials used:

• Japanese glass beads
• Small Round plastic beads
• Big Round plastic Marbled beads
• Big Twisted plastic marbled beads
• Big Oval plastic Marbled beads

This necklace is consists of 2 strands - one shorter than the other...

I have to admit I did this spontaneously, so did not really put much thought to it. Please give me some comments on it, if most of the comments are not so great, I may just snip it and redo it.

Christmas Pressies...Yay!

I guess I'm just a little bored at present, so here I am doing silly things like posting some of my christmas pressies in my blog!! How silly can I get??!! hahaha!! Ok not all my gifts are posted cos' not all of them are photogenic and some are camera-shy hahaha!!

The following 2 Mickey Mouse T-shirts were from my parents... Ok I am into Mickey mouse apparels at present... don't I sound like a kid??!! Hahah!

This LeSportSac bag is from a very good friend... Isn't it cute??!!

Overeating during Christmas...

It's unbelievable how Christmas just went by so quickly and it's already 2006!! I had one of the most memorable Christmas cos' I ate so much good food (thanks to my fiance who pampered me with the best cuisine ever).



On Christmas day, my fiance and I had dinner with his best mate and wife at this restuarant called Iggy's in Regent Hotel. We had the best wine and food!! I have to say the food was soooooooo delicious and we were so FULL at the end of dinner cos' we had about 14 courses... UNBELIEVABLE huh?!

When the palate cleanser came, my fiance and I looked at it for awhile trying to figure out what it was... Well, it's this colourless liquid in a shot glass that we had absolutely no idea what it was. So the boss told us that it's Momotaro tomato juice. They imported the tomato from Japan and squeezed the juice out through some kind of cloth... this process has to be done in a temperature controlled room to prevent oxidisation... Now how interesting is that! But do you know how the tomatoes are picked before they are being sold?? These tomatoes are grown hydroponically, and the tomatoes are picked by robots/machines, and a laser beam is then shone on them to check for sugar levels. If it's not the correct level, it will be rejected by the machine. Amazing huh??!!

Now you guys probably be thinking "What's so great about tomato juice?" Well, you will never believe it until you've tasted it... It's the sweetest and tangy tomato juice I've ever had! I just wanted to saviour every drop in my mouth, it was simply the best!!!

I can't really pick out which dish was my favourite cos' they were all so nice...I think the White Truffles and the Momotaro tomatoes were really yummy, so was the sea urchin...

Anyway, we enjoyed dinner that night so much that we went back 2 days later for lunch... we had more White Truffles and Momotaro tomotoes,,, YUMMY!!! And of cos' we had more wine... Real decadence!!

Thank you darling for pampering me so much...