Was a welcome break and back by Sunday... was supposed to meet Xiiiee for coffee but then her relatives dropped by and kind of washed the plans away. All in all a nice weekend
Friday, November 10, 2006
A weekend getaway
Took me a week to blog this... XXie invited me to join her in Beach last week, I would have dived into it after the hectic week I had and closing of the tender on Friday, then a unique invitation to get away came alone, chaperon haahahaa but just to get away. Nothing else to do, I tune Xxiee down and jump into the car and ride on. Thought only for one night it was a nice time to get away from away hustle and bustle of the city and the people around you and be with others.
Was a welcome break and back by Sunday... was supposed to meet Xiiiee for coffee but then her relatives dropped by and kind of washed the plans away. All in all a nice weekend
Was a welcome break and back by Sunday... was supposed to meet Xiiiee for coffee but then her relatives dropped by and kind of washed the plans away. All in all a nice weekend
Thursday, November 09, 2006
Indifference
A story is told about a soldier who was finally coming home after having fought in Vietnam. He called his parents from San Francisco.
"Mom and Dad, I'm coming home, but I've a favor to ask. I have a friend I'd like to bring home with me." "Sure," they replied, "we'd love to meet him." "There's something you should know," the son continued, "he was hurt pretty badly in the fighting. He stepped on a land mind and lost an arm and a leg. He has nowhere else to go, and I want him to come live with us."
"I'm sorry to hear that, son. Maybe we can help him find somewhere to live." "No, Mom and Dad, I want him to live with us."
"Son," said the father, "you don't know what you're asking. Someone with such a handicap would be a terrible burden on us. We have our own lives to live, and we can't let something like this interfere with o ur lives. I think you should just come home and forget about this guy. He'll find a way to live on his own." At that point, the son hung up the phone. The parents heard nothing more from him.
A few days later, however, they received a call from the San Francisco police. Their son had died after falling from a building, they were told. The police believed it was suicide. The grief-stricken parents flew to San Francisco and were taken to the city morgue to identify the body of their son. They recognized him, but to their horror they also discovered something they didn't know, their son had only one arm and one leg.
The parents in this story are like many of us. We find it easy to love those who are good-looking or fun to have around, but we don't like people who inconvenience us or make us feel uncomfortable. We would rather stay away from people who aren't as healthy, beautiful, or smart as we are.
Give yourself the strength you need to accept people as they are, and to help us all be more understanding of those who are different from us!!!
Unknown author
"Mom and Dad, I'm coming home, but I've a favor to ask. I have a friend I'd like to bring home with me." "Sure," they replied, "we'd love to meet him." "There's something you should know," the son continued, "he was hurt pretty badly in the fighting. He stepped on a land mind and lost an arm and a leg. He has nowhere else to go, and I want him to come live with us."
"I'm sorry to hear that, son. Maybe we can help him find somewhere to live." "No, Mom and Dad, I want him to live with us."
"Son," said the father, "you don't know what you're asking. Someone with such a handicap would be a terrible burden on us. We have our own lives to live, and we can't let something like this interfere with o ur lives. I think you should just come home and forget about this guy. He'll find a way to live on his own." At that point, the son hung up the phone. The parents heard nothing more from him.
A few days later, however, they received a call from the San Francisco police. Their son had died after falling from a building, they were told. The police believed it was suicide. The grief-stricken parents flew to San Francisco and were taken to the city morgue to identify the body of their son. They recognized him, but to their horror they also discovered something they didn't know, their son had only one arm and one leg.
The parents in this story are like many of us. We find it easy to love those who are good-looking or fun to have around, but we don't like people who inconvenience us or make us feel uncomfortable. We would rather stay away from people who aren't as healthy, beautiful, or smart as we are.
Give yourself the strength you need to accept people as they are, and to help us all be more understanding of those who are different from us!!!
Unknown author
The shoe on the other feet
Call it Ironic but when the shoe is on the other feet, reading a few blogs of my frens and looking at my outlook in my social side I kind of notices the roles reversed. Heck I got socialites who were not even sure of the meaning in the beginning.
Right now with my working freelancing on some jobs and juggling a few events , I hardly have time to meet or hang out with friends but contarary to other I still make an attempt to keep in touch with that matter to me. Unfortunately tehre are still people who hold history against me and adopt a certain bias-ness in their judgement. Do I care? NOPE
I have had a topsy turvy week thus far starting with being wisked away for PD for a nice full moon outing to come back to a rough week which resulted me travelling to Klang a bit (since they know I am in KL) and juggling my freelance job. Expences going higher and finances going lower( a total saperate blog)
Right now with my working freelancing on some jobs and juggling a few events , I hardly have time to meet or hang out with friends but contarary to other I still make an attempt to keep in touch with that matter to me. Unfortunately tehre are still people who hold history against me and adopt a certain bias-ness in their judgement. Do I care? NOPE
I have had a topsy turvy week thus far starting with being wisked away for PD for a nice full moon outing to come back to a rough week which resulted me travelling to Klang a bit (since they know I am in KL) and juggling my freelance job. Expences going higher and finances going lower( a total saperate blog)
Tuesday, November 07, 2006
Deepavali BBQ In Cheras
We had a BBQ among the cousins...there was supposed to be another one in Seremban but that did not work out. So all the kids joined along we have a nice BBQ with urs truly "working for sex" hahaha not a t-shirt uncles would approve...... we had fun among the cousins... I chaperon the kids in playing fireworks till about 3 am and everyone went back home safe
Catchy Advert
On a right handed world we use our right hand for.... so in the gents of a nice dining area I found this advert. Awesome aint it
Sunday, November 05, 2006
Alcohol - Tips for cutting down
Since we already on that suject here are some tips from the net For many people, even small changes to the way you drink can make a big difference in reducing the negative effects of alcohol.
Alcohol units - Know what a unit is and how many are in your drink.
Set targets - Decide how much you are going to drink before you go out and practice sticking to the target.
Water - Alternate your drinks with water to stay refreshed, and drink water before you go out so that you are not so thirsty.
Food - Having a bite to eat before or whilst drinking slows alcohol absorption.
Drink spacers - Soft drink "spacers" between drinks can help to pace an evening.
Day spacers - Have days in the week when you drink nothing.
Money limits - If you drink till the money is gone, take less money with you and leave the credit cards at home.
Switch drinks - Some drinks are much stronger than others, so switching from a strong drink to a weaker one can be an easy way to reduce your units.
Top ups - Avoid top ups so that you can keep track of your unit intake.
Driving - Think about how you're going to get home before you leave home - take a licensed cab or designate a driver.
Quit the rounds - Avoid rounds, they encourage you to drink more than you would like out of loyalty to your friends.
Choose your company - If you know you will drink a lot with some people, try and avoid always going out with them.
Alcohol units - Know what a unit is and how many are in your drink.
Set targets - Decide how much you are going to drink before you go out and practice sticking to the target.
Water - Alternate your drinks with water to stay refreshed, and drink water before you go out so that you are not so thirsty.
Food - Having a bite to eat before or whilst drinking slows alcohol absorption.
Drink spacers - Soft drink "spacers" between drinks can help to pace an evening.
Day spacers - Have days in the week when you drink nothing.
Money limits - If you drink till the money is gone, take less money with you and leave the credit cards at home.
Switch drinks - Some drinks are much stronger than others, so switching from a strong drink to a weaker one can be an easy way to reduce your units.
Top ups - Avoid top ups so that you can keep track of your unit intake.
Driving - Think about how you're going to get home before you leave home - take a licensed cab or designate a driver.
Quit the rounds - Avoid rounds, they encourage you to drink more than you would like out of loyalty to your friends.
Choose your company - If you know you will drink a lot with some people, try and avoid always going out with them.
Day 5
Its not like I went advertising that I took a bet to stop drinking, then again even the faintest hint was on day 3in the blog here.... I kind of been bombarded how, why, when etc etc some even thought I was pulling a prank. Well what landed me in this bet was both my lazer mouth and my ego and my thick headedness
Here we were banter going between my and my dear cousins and kind of got out of hand... which lead to a discussion bout if I could stop drinking (not that my drinking was out of control). So a dare bacame a bet for 30 days not to touch alcohol, my and my big mouth turned it to 45 days. Why 45 days? Dun know just plucked it out of the air, completing forgetting I have a few event coming up.
So what better challange then to go thru these events and not drink. I mean I could sneak behind my cousin bet and drink, then that would not be me. So bets on. Events on. 40 more days and counting
A man goes into a bar and orders three beers at the same time. Bartender serves him. This practice is repeated every night for many nights and finally the barkeep questions the man about the practice of three beers. He explains that every night at the same time his two brothers do the same at their local bar. He further explains that the first beer is for his brother Bill in Boston, the second his for the brother in New York and the last is his. After several years, night after night, one night he orders only two beers, and as the bartenders is serving him he offers his regrets upon the death of one of his brothers, obviously the reason for only two beers. The patron thanks him for his concern, but he explains that he had decided to stop drinking.
The anology - you can go to a bar but you dun have to drink
Here we were banter going between my and my dear cousins and kind of got out of hand... which lead to a discussion bout if I could stop drinking (not that my drinking was out of control). So a dare bacame a bet for 30 days not to touch alcohol, my and my big mouth turned it to 45 days. Why 45 days? Dun know just plucked it out of the air, completing forgetting I have a few event coming up.
So what better challange then to go thru these events and not drink. I mean I could sneak behind my cousin bet and drink, then that would not be me. So bets on. Events on. 40 more days and counting
A man goes into a bar and orders three beers at the same time. Bartender serves him. This practice is repeated every night for many nights and finally the barkeep questions the man about the practice of three beers. He explains that every night at the same time his two brothers do the same at their local bar. He further explains that the first beer is for his brother Bill in Boston, the second his for the brother in New York and the last is his. After several years, night after night, one night he orders only two beers, and as the bartenders is serving him he offers his regrets upon the death of one of his brothers, obviously the reason for only two beers. The patron thanks him for his concern, but he explains that he had decided to stop drinking.
The anology - you can go to a bar but you dun have to drink
MY Buddy is Crazy bout Transformers
My buddy is crazy bout Transformers and over time he has amassed a large correction fucking huge collection. Again I say, My buddy is crazy bout Transformers
So being a good buddy a couple weeks ago (now only got time to blog ma) I followed him to his next hunt for Transformer toys and the pic will show you the biggest transformation form a 6 feet 30 plus adult to a 7 year old kid... and Jen the pics dun lie.
This dude is hardcore, my I am softcore just the original series and he ... sigh what else can I say....Some people might ask, "What is a grown man doing with these toys". My reply to those people, "I have no idea, I just love Transformers too".
So being a good buddy a couple weeks ago (now only got time to blog ma) I followed him to his next hunt for Transformer toys and the pic will show you the biggest transformation form a 6 feet 30 plus adult to a 7 year old kid... and Jen the pics dun lie.
This dude is hardcore, my I am softcore just the original series and he ... sigh what else can I say....Some people might ask, "What is a grown man doing with these toys". My reply to those people, "I have no idea, I just love Transformers too".
Friday, November 03, 2006
The "Dictionary"
The Oxford Dictionary's latest definition of the following words.
Divorce :
Future tense of marriage.
Cigarette:
A pinch of tobacco rolled in paper with fire at one end and a fool on the other.
Lecture:
An art of transferring information from the notes of the lecturer to the notes of the students without passing through the minds of either.
Compromise:
The art of dividing a cake in such a way that everybody believes he got the biggest piece.
Tears :
The hydraulic force by which masculine will-power is defeated by feminine water power.
Dictionary :
A place where success comes before work.
Conference Room:
A place where everybody talks, nobody listens and everybody disagrees later on.
Classic:
A book which people praise, but do not read.
Smile :
A curve that can set a lot of things straight.
Office:
A place where you can relax after your strenuous home life.
Yawn:
The only time some married men ever get to open their mouth.
Etc:
A sign to make others believe that you know more than you actually do.
Committee:
Individuals who can do nothing individually and sit to decide that nothing can be done together.
Experience:
The name men give to their mistakes.
Atom Bomb:
An invention to end all inventions.
Philosopher:
A fool who torments himself during life, to be spoken of when dead.
Diplomat :
A person who tells you to go to hell in such a way that you actually look forward to the trip.
Opportunist :
A person who starts taking bath if he accidentally falls into a river.
Optimist:
A person who while falling from Eiffel tower says in midway "See I am not injured yet."
Miser :
A person who lives poor so that he can die rich.
Father :
A banker provided by nature.
Criminal :
A guy no different from the rest....except that he got caught.
Politician :
One who shakes your hand before elections and your confidence after.
Doctor:
A person who kills your ills by pills, and kills you with his bills.
And Finally
Boss:
Someone who is early when you are late and late when you are early
Divorce :
Future tense of marriage.
Cigarette:
A pinch of tobacco rolled in paper with fire at one end and a fool on the other.
Lecture:
An art of transferring information from the notes of the lecturer to the notes of the students without passing through the minds of either.
Compromise:
The art of dividing a cake in such a way that everybody believes he got the biggest piece.
Tears :
The hydraulic force by which masculine will-power is defeated by feminine water power.
Dictionary :
A place where success comes before work.
Conference Room:
A place where everybody talks, nobody listens and everybody disagrees later on.
Classic:
A book which people praise, but do not read.
Smile :
A curve that can set a lot of things straight.
Office:
A place where you can relax after your strenuous home life.
Yawn:
The only time some married men ever get to open their mouth.
Etc:
A sign to make others believe that you know more than you actually do.
Committee:
Individuals who can do nothing individually and sit to decide that nothing can be done together.
Experience:
The name men give to their mistakes.
Atom Bomb:
An invention to end all inventions.
Philosopher:
A fool who torments himself during life, to be spoken of when dead.
Diplomat :
A person who tells you to go to hell in such a way that you actually look forward to the trip.
Opportunist :
A person who starts taking bath if he accidentally falls into a river.
Optimist:
A person who while falling from Eiffel tower says in midway "See I am not injured yet."
Miser :
A person who lives poor so that he can die rich.
Father :
A banker provided by nature.
Criminal :
A guy no different from the rest....except that he got caught.
Politician :
One who shakes your hand before elections and your confidence after.
Doctor:
A person who kills your ills by pills, and kills you with his bills.
And Finally
Boss:
Someone who is early when you are late and late when you are early
Day 3
I took a bet with my cousin that I can stop drinking and so I am on day 3. Why? Ego maybe but to prove them wrong. Day 3 so far
reedited
reedited
Luna Bar
I discovered this place in early October. This were the reviews in the paper as well as a few of the new office staf were braggin about it. So after our corporate Raya function at KL Tower we adjourn there.
Its not a place honestly I can afford to go, its for the rich, stylish, upper class joint, read the reviews.......
"One word, exclusive. Luna Bar, a name often chanted as the forefront of the bar scene in KL is located at the top of the Pan Regency Hotel. Luna Bar''s interior design sets a new standard of pure tranquility – an outdoor bar, with a pool to die for right in the middle, is lit with hues of orange and canary yellow. The double effect of the wide open sky, soft breeze and calm waters create a soothing atmosphere not common in clubs here. The mezzanine floor which is situated on the top floor of Luna Bar is for VIP guests only. Although it’s covered by wooden canopies, it doesn''t jeopardize the breathtaking view of KL city for admiration’s sake. Cameras are a norm here as many can''t help but snap pictures all around to savour the experience. Luna Bar should not be left out on your list as it’s crowned by many as the current leading bar in KL. But why listen to us, check out the view for yourself, you’ll see."
"Situated at the top of one of the glitziest spots on KL, Luna Bar is the brand new place to be, with a one-of-a-kind view by the poolside, perfect view to the stars, and the night breeze blowing in your hair. JOYCE WONG steps up to a bar that gives “high-class” a whole new meaning. A location as exclusive as the rooftop of the Pan Regency Hotel is sure to draw a decent amount of public curiosity and attention. Since its opening in mid-December 2004, Luna Bar has been a name mentioned constantly among working professionals. It has even seen an impressive stream of local film stars, artistes, and models appearing there to relax."
I dun know it if was the clothes I was wearing or how ugly I looked or otherwise I was actually ushered to the VIP area in the upper floor. It was magical even thougth I could not afford the drinks or the style of clothes people wear there, the bartenders were still polite pleasent and nice to chat with soon I was basking on the night the view the joy of being alone and the beauty of the skyline. One of the times when being alone has its benefits.
Its not a place honestly I can afford to go, its for the rich, stylish, upper class joint, read the reviews.......
"One word, exclusive. Luna Bar, a name often chanted as the forefront of the bar scene in KL is located at the top of the Pan Regency Hotel. Luna Bar''s interior design sets a new standard of pure tranquility – an outdoor bar, with a pool to die for right in the middle, is lit with hues of orange and canary yellow. The double effect of the wide open sky, soft breeze and calm waters create a soothing atmosphere not common in clubs here. The mezzanine floor which is situated on the top floor of Luna Bar is for VIP guests only. Although it’s covered by wooden canopies, it doesn''t jeopardize the breathtaking view of KL city for admiration’s sake. Cameras are a norm here as many can''t help but snap pictures all around to savour the experience. Luna Bar should not be left out on your list as it’s crowned by many as the current leading bar in KL. But why listen to us, check out the view for yourself, you’ll see."
"Situated at the top of one of the glitziest spots on KL, Luna Bar is the brand new place to be, with a one-of-a-kind view by the poolside, perfect view to the stars, and the night breeze blowing in your hair. JOYCE WONG steps up to a bar that gives “high-class” a whole new meaning. A location as exclusive as the rooftop of the Pan Regency Hotel is sure to draw a decent amount of public curiosity and attention. Since its opening in mid-December 2004, Luna Bar has been a name mentioned constantly among working professionals. It has even seen an impressive stream of local film stars, artistes, and models appearing there to relax."
I dun know it if was the clothes I was wearing or how ugly I looked or otherwise I was actually ushered to the VIP area in the upper floor. It was magical even thougth I could not afford the drinks or the style of clothes people wear there, the bartenders were still polite pleasent and nice to chat with soon I was basking on the night the view the joy of being alone and the beauty of the skyline. One of the times when being alone has its benefits.
Blogs?!?!?!
Was reading an interesting an interesting fella's blog... she had a few interesting question which seem appropriate for me ot post here
Rhetorical question: Are we what we blog? Do our blogs directly or indirectly reveal who we are... by what we choose to write and by what we omit? Do other use what we write as a basis as an opinion against you and does that matter? Does opening your thought you opinion and mind and heart to other allow that to be a basis of a factor if ever for one to pass judgement on another?
Interesting!!!
Rhetorical question: Are we what we blog? Do our blogs directly or indirectly reveal who we are... by what we choose to write and by what we omit? Do other use what we write as a basis as an opinion against you and does that matter? Does opening your thought you opinion and mind and heart to other allow that to be a basis of a factor if ever for one to pass judgement on another?
Interesting!!!
Thursday, November 02, 2006
Weddings & 7 steps
Already my pocket is running empty wiht the number of wedding I have had to so solo and with family and some with frens... from September till not and the trend will carry on till almost middle of Dece,mber.
Here are some pics from frens weddings one of the kicks I get from this ... I am an expert in tying sari!!!
Enjoy the pics
Bless them.
Many always ask me what the 7 steps after they tie the knot means as the walk around the fire to confirm the marriage as the fire (Agni) is the witness, the Priest will say..Bride and groom rise and prepare to take seven steps. Priest continues:
I ask you, (bride) and (groom), to concentrate upon these seven vows as you take the seven steps:
1. May the couple be blessed with an abundance of food.
2. May the couple be strong and complement one another.
3. May the couple be blessed with prosperity.
4. May the couple be eternally happy.
5. May the couple be blessed with children.
6. May the couple live in perfect harmony.
7. May (bride) and (groom) always be the best of friends.
A short Hindu wedding ceremony
Traditional Hindu wedding ceremonies can last for days and involve much ritual in Sanskrit which may be understood only by the priest conducting the service. This ceremony is considerably shorter and is intended to be understandable even to a non-Indian audience, making it suitable for intercultural or mixed Hindu/non-Hindu marriages. The couple for whom it was originally written based it on the Gujarati Brahmin traditions of the bride's family with a few touches from Unitarian and secular wedding services familiar to the groom's family. It includes three spots to insert optional readings and musical performances of your choosing.
The priest in this ceremony need not be formally trained as a Hindu priest. He or she should be familiar with Hindu weddings and comfortable acting as a master of ceremonies, guiding the participants through their parts and explaining the meaning of the service to the audience. It's okay if the priest keeps the script in hand during the ceremony.
Roles
* Bride
* Groom
* Priest (who in this ceremony also serves as the MC)
* Bride's parents
* Groom's parents
* Bride's maternal uncle (maamaa)
* Bride's brother (or cousin or male friend)
* Best man
* Chorus: a few women who know how to sing traditional Indian slokas
* Flower girls (optional)
Set
Hindu weddings are supposed to take place outside, on the earth, under a canopy known as a mandap. If that's not possible, you can build a mandap inside and pretend you're outdoors. Seating under the mandap can be on the ground (carpets or mats would be a good idea) or on chairs.
Front and center under the mandap is the sacred fire. The fire can be small and confined to a brazier or dish for safety.
The groom's party is supposed to arrive at the wedding spot in a procession, so it's good to have a convenient assembly location nearby.
Props
* Coconut
* Garlands to be exchanged by bride and groom
* Rings to be exchanged by bride and groom
* Wedding necklace (mangalsutra)
* Gift from groom to bride's brother
* Gift from bride's mother to groom
* Sacred fire
* Sacred rope (varamala), tied in a loop large enough to go easily around bride and groom
* Pots of water for washing hands and feet
* Kumkum or red paste applied to forehead
* Rice
* Flowers
Wardrobe
Traditionally, the bride wears a red or red and white sari. The sari should be draped modestly over her hair. The groom wears a kafni (long shirt extending to the knees) with pijamo (leggings) or dhoti (sort of an overgrown loincloth). The groom might also wear a turban.
Of course, in an adapted ceremony like this one great liberties can be taken with wardrobe. One rule which shouldn't be broken is that anyone who enters the mandap or wedding canopy must have on sandals or slip-on shoes which can be easily removed (no shoes in the mandap!). In addition, it's a good idea to avoid much black.
One feature of the bride's wardrobe which has become popular abroad is the use of henna or mehndi to decorate her hands and feet. It's said that you can tell how well a new bride is being treated by her in-laws from how long it takes for the mehndi to wear off. Mehndi treatments are increasingly available in salons or you can get mehndi mix at any Indian grocery store for a do-it-yourself job. (But be sure to practice on paper first! Mehndi doesn't wash off.)
Script
1. Groom's party assembles a few minutes before scheduled ceremony time at a convenient spot near ceremony location. (E.g., a neighbor's house or a parking lot around the corner.) Older members of the party may go on to the ceremony location to be seated. Groom is holding a coconut and bride's garland.
2. Groom's party walks in a procession to ceremony location. (For extra credit, groom rides on a horse or better yet an elephant!) Groom is received by bride's mother who applies kumkum to his forehead. Groom bows to bride's mother and gives her coconut.
3. Bride's parents escort groom and best man to the mandap. Groom's party is seated nearby.
4. After groom is in position in the mandap, bride comes out carrying groom's garland, escorted by maternal uncle, optionally preceded by flower girls.
5. Priest says:
We have come together to wed (bride), daughter of (bride's parents), to (groom), son of (groom's parents). Today they build together the foundation of their marriage upon the earth, in the presence of the sacred fire and the radiant sun, among their family and friends.
6. Bride and groom are seated facing one another under the mandap. Chorus sings the slokas:
* Invocation to Lord Ganesha: Vignesh varaia varadaia sukhapriyaya...
* Invocation to Saraswati: Yakundendutusharahara dhawala...
* Prayer for harmony: Om sahana vavatu...
7. Bride garlands groom. Groom garlands bride.
8. Reading #1.
9. Bride's parents wash bride's and groom's hands and feet, apply kumkum and give flowers. (Bride's mother does this to bride, bride's father to groom.)
10. Bride's parents address audience:
I, (name), son/daughter of (grandparents' names), approve the wedding of my daughter, (bride's name), to (groom's name).
11. Groom says:
I, (groom's name), take you, (bride's name), into my heart as my wife.
Bride says:
I, (bride's name), take you, (groom's name), into my heart as my husband.
12. Priest says:
A circle is the symbol of the sun and the earth and the universe. It is a symbol of holiness and of perfection and of peace. In these rings it is the symbol of unity, in which your lives are now joined in one unbroken circle, in which, wherever you go, you will always return to one another and to your togetherness.
Bride and groom exchange rings.
13. Priest puts varamala (sacred rope) around bride's and groom's necks. They're now married!
14. The couple, who had been sitting facing one another, now sit down side by side. Bride's father puts bride's hand in groom's.
15. Song or musical performance. (Traditionally this is the time to sing a mangalashtak, a poem composed specially for the occasion.)
16. Bride cups her hands and places them in groom's cupped hands. Bride's brother puts rice in bride's hands. Together bride and groom pour the mixture into the fire.
17. Bride and groom walk around the fire four times, alternating in who leads. Priest says:
Om Svaha! With the first turn, we pray for happiness in the union of the couple.
Om Svaha! With the second turn, we pray for the long life of the couple.
Om Svaha! With the third turn, we pray for the healthy life of the couple.
Om Svaha! With the fourth turn, we pray for the happiness and health of the couple.
18. The bride and groom sit down. (Here's a fun part: whoever sits down first will be the boss in the marriage!) Groom presents a gift to the bride's brother.
19. Priest says:
Now is the time to confirm the marriage with the seven final steps.
Bride and groom rise and prepare to take seven steps. Priest continues:
I ask you, (bride) and (groom), to concentrate upon these seven vows as you take the seven steps:
1. May the couple be blessed with an abundance of food.
2. May the couple be strong and complement one another.
3. May the couple be blessed with prosperity.
4. May the couple be eternally happy.
5. May the couple be blessed with children.
Idea: one "blended family" we know of changed this to "May the couple be blessed with obedient children." :-)
6. May the couple live in perfect harmony.
7. May (bride) and (groom) always be the best of friends.
20. Optional step to shock the traditional Hindus: bride and groom steal a kiss!
21. Bride and groom feed each other sweets four times. Bride's mother gives groom a gift. Groom's mother comes to the mandap and puts the mangalsutra necklace around the bride's neck.
22. Reading #2.
23. Chorus sings the sloka:
* Blessing for Everlasting Love: Advaitam...
...as bride and groom bow to all their seniors in both parties in rough order according to age (eldest first).
24. Adjourn to refreshments and photo ops. Mob scene ensues!
The priest in this ceremony need not be formally trained as a Hindu priest. He or she should be familiar with Hindu weddings and comfortable acting as a master of ceremonies, guiding the participants through their parts and explaining the meaning of the service to the audience. It's okay if the priest keeps the script in hand during the ceremony.
Roles
* Bride
* Groom
* Priest (who in this ceremony also serves as the MC)
* Bride's parents
* Groom's parents
* Bride's maternal uncle (maamaa)
* Bride's brother (or cousin or male friend)
* Best man
* Chorus: a few women who know how to sing traditional Indian slokas
* Flower girls (optional)
Set
Hindu weddings are supposed to take place outside, on the earth, under a canopy known as a mandap. If that's not possible, you can build a mandap inside and pretend you're outdoors. Seating under the mandap can be on the ground (carpets or mats would be a good idea) or on chairs.
Front and center under the mandap is the sacred fire. The fire can be small and confined to a brazier or dish for safety.
The groom's party is supposed to arrive at the wedding spot in a procession, so it's good to have a convenient assembly location nearby.
Props
* Coconut
* Garlands to be exchanged by bride and groom
* Rings to be exchanged by bride and groom
* Wedding necklace (mangalsutra)
* Gift from groom to bride's brother
* Gift from bride's mother to groom
* Sacred fire
* Sacred rope (varamala), tied in a loop large enough to go easily around bride and groom
* Pots of water for washing hands and feet
* Kumkum or red paste applied to forehead
* Rice
* Flowers
Wardrobe
Traditionally, the bride wears a red or red and white sari. The sari should be draped modestly over her hair. The groom wears a kafni (long shirt extending to the knees) with pijamo (leggings) or dhoti (sort of an overgrown loincloth). The groom might also wear a turban.
Of course, in an adapted ceremony like this one great liberties can be taken with wardrobe. One rule which shouldn't be broken is that anyone who enters the mandap or wedding canopy must have on sandals or slip-on shoes which can be easily removed (no shoes in the mandap!). In addition, it's a good idea to avoid much black.
One feature of the bride's wardrobe which has become popular abroad is the use of henna or mehndi to decorate her hands and feet. It's said that you can tell how well a new bride is being treated by her in-laws from how long it takes for the mehndi to wear off. Mehndi treatments are increasingly available in salons or you can get mehndi mix at any Indian grocery store for a do-it-yourself job. (But be sure to practice on paper first! Mehndi doesn't wash off.)
Script
1. Groom's party assembles a few minutes before scheduled ceremony time at a convenient spot near ceremony location. (E.g., a neighbor's house or a parking lot around the corner.) Older members of the party may go on to the ceremony location to be seated. Groom is holding a coconut and bride's garland.
2. Groom's party walks in a procession to ceremony location. (For extra credit, groom rides on a horse or better yet an elephant!) Groom is received by bride's mother who applies kumkum to his forehead. Groom bows to bride's mother and gives her coconut.
3. Bride's parents escort groom and best man to the mandap. Groom's party is seated nearby.
4. After groom is in position in the mandap, bride comes out carrying groom's garland, escorted by maternal uncle, optionally preceded by flower girls.
5. Priest says:
We have come together to wed (bride), daughter of (bride's parents), to (groom), son of (groom's parents). Today they build together the foundation of their marriage upon the earth, in the presence of the sacred fire and the radiant sun, among their family and friends.
6. Bride and groom are seated facing one another under the mandap. Chorus sings the slokas:
* Invocation to Lord Ganesha: Vignesh varaia varadaia sukhapriyaya...
* Invocation to Saraswati: Yakundendutusharahara dhawala...
* Prayer for harmony: Om sahana vavatu...
7. Bride garlands groom. Groom garlands bride.
8. Reading #1.
9. Bride's parents wash bride's and groom's hands and feet, apply kumkum and give flowers. (Bride's mother does this to bride, bride's father to groom.)
10. Bride's parents address audience:
I, (name), son/daughter of (grandparents' names), approve the wedding of my daughter, (bride's name), to (groom's name).
11. Groom says:
I, (groom's name), take you, (bride's name), into my heart as my wife.
Bride says:
I, (bride's name), take you, (groom's name), into my heart as my husband.
12. Priest says:
A circle is the symbol of the sun and the earth and the universe. It is a symbol of holiness and of perfection and of peace. In these rings it is the symbol of unity, in which your lives are now joined in one unbroken circle, in which, wherever you go, you will always return to one another and to your togetherness.
Bride and groom exchange rings.
13. Priest puts varamala (sacred rope) around bride's and groom's necks. They're now married!
14. The couple, who had been sitting facing one another, now sit down side by side. Bride's father puts bride's hand in groom's.
15. Song or musical performance. (Traditionally this is the time to sing a mangalashtak, a poem composed specially for the occasion.)
16. Bride cups her hands and places them in groom's cupped hands. Bride's brother puts rice in bride's hands. Together bride and groom pour the mixture into the fire.
17. Bride and groom walk around the fire four times, alternating in who leads. Priest says:
Om Svaha! With the first turn, we pray for happiness in the union of the couple.
Om Svaha! With the second turn, we pray for the long life of the couple.
Om Svaha! With the third turn, we pray for the healthy life of the couple.
Om Svaha! With the fourth turn, we pray for the happiness and health of the couple.
18. The bride and groom sit down. (Here's a fun part: whoever sits down first will be the boss in the marriage!) Groom presents a gift to the bride's brother.
19. Priest says:
Now is the time to confirm the marriage with the seven final steps.
Bride and groom rise and prepare to take seven steps. Priest continues:
I ask you, (bride) and (groom), to concentrate upon these seven vows as you take the seven steps:
1. May the couple be blessed with an abundance of food.
2. May the couple be strong and complement one another.
3. May the couple be blessed with prosperity.
4. May the couple be eternally happy.
5. May the couple be blessed with children.
Idea: one "blended family" we know of changed this to "May the couple be blessed with obedient children." :-)
6. May the couple live in perfect harmony.
7. May (bride) and (groom) always be the best of friends.
20. Optional step to shock the traditional Hindus: bride and groom steal a kiss!
21. Bride and groom feed each other sweets four times. Bride's mother gives groom a gift. Groom's mother comes to the mandap and puts the mangalsutra necklace around the bride's neck.
22. Reading #2.
23. Chorus sings the sloka:
* Blessing for Everlasting Love: Advaitam...
...as bride and groom bow to all their seniors in both parties in rough order according to age (eldest first).
24. Adjourn to refreshments and photo ops. Mob scene ensues!
M proud of my cousin
I hold my cousin in high esteem and we are a close bunch, they know most about me.... they are a lovely bunch. R is a darling and a mosest genius, was the one who accompanied my on the swing last year. (refer to old posting)
She told me about this during Deepavali but I did not have the time to post but since its out in today's paper, I must ackowledge and print,
In the NST today she picked up the Yang di-Pertuan Agong Scholarships. 3 years all paid expences. Well done R. I farking proud of you. Clap Clap Clap
KUALA LUMPUR: Nik Noor Jehan Nik Mokhtar’s dream to pursue postgraduate studies in one of the world’s top universities was fulfilled yesterday.
She received the good news from Yang di-Pertuan Agong Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin who presented her the scholarship offer letter at Istana Negara.
She is among 10 recipients of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong Scholarships introduced this year. "I never expected to further my studies in Oxford University," said the 22-year-old.
Five of the scholarship recipients will be pursuing their Masters and another five in PhDs in science and technology subjects of their choice.
Another recipient, Yee Wen Huei, 24, had chosen to pursue his Masters in Automotive Engineering in Michigan University, United States.
The 10 were selected from 283 applications. Once they have completed their studies, they are not bonded to work for the government but it is compulsory for them to return to Malaysia and work in the public or private sector.
She told me about this during Deepavali but I did not have the time to post but since its out in today's paper, I must ackowledge and print,
In the NST today she picked up the Yang di-Pertuan Agong Scholarships. 3 years all paid expences. Well done R. I farking proud of you. Clap Clap Clap
10 receive King’s scholarship
02 Nov 2006KUALA LUMPUR: Nik Noor Jehan Nik Mokhtar’s dream to pursue postgraduate studies in one of the world’s top universities was fulfilled yesterday.
She received the good news from Yang di-Pertuan Agong Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin who presented her the scholarship offer letter at Istana Negara.
She is among 10 recipients of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong Scholarships introduced this year. "I never expected to further my studies in Oxford University," said the 22-year-old.
Five of the scholarship recipients will be pursuing their Masters and another five in PhDs in science and technology subjects of their choice.
Another recipient, Yee Wen Huei, 24, had chosen to pursue his Masters in Automotive Engineering in Michigan University, United States.
The 10 were selected from 283 applications. Once they have completed their studies, they are not bonded to work for the government but it is compulsory for them to return to Malaysia and work in the public or private sector.
New office Space
We are beginning to expand with the number of people we hired and more coming in over the next few weeks. We acquired an additional floor downstairs and the initial phase part of ops will be downstairs. The initial Phase 1 of phone line transfer and IT and Cabeling will be under my belt. Phase 2 will be under my boss. By Dec 1st all ops will be downstairs. I better lobby for a room.
My only question is Where is the sales mate!!!!
My only question is Where is the sales mate!!!!
Wednesday, November 01, 2006
Badminton, Klang, Pot Luck Lunch
My badminton session the the epitome of my week, lots of work with little frutifullness. My game was pure rust and nervousness, with the weight that I had put on being 2 months away.... its a little wonder I eve made is past 2 games, both rust and lack of fitness and in the back of my mind the fear of getting hurt again were the culprits.
Jen said it right when he also snapped his knee a month back, acticipation. That I dont have my mind too clouded with work and things to do. Having the need to shuttle to Klang since the road tax for the car not done was an added burden... now that its know that M being based in KL did not help either.
I never wanted to reveal where I lived and have always left it like that, not a hidden fact but if someone asked jsut say need-to-know basis. I have alwasy let it been like that. Well that cat is out of the bag. My transition and life here has been good and I have no complaint from what I walked away from.
Out of the blue, the boss decided to have a pot luck lunch?? Makes no sense then again maybe its to foster relationships I guess, well I picked salad so went to the market before driving up to the office. Each supposed to bring a dish, I shudder to think how we gonna get this act together
In the long run my field work has commenced with the drive to move outstation to refineries, part of the big push.... along with that I gave begun to accept freelance assignments. Time to head back....
Jen said it right when he also snapped his knee a month back, acticipation. That I dont have my mind too clouded with work and things to do. Having the need to shuttle to Klang since the road tax for the car not done was an added burden... now that its know that M being based in KL did not help either.
I never wanted to reveal where I lived and have always left it like that, not a hidden fact but if someone asked jsut say need-to-know basis. I have alwasy let it been like that. Well that cat is out of the bag. My transition and life here has been good and I have no complaint from what I walked away from.
Out of the blue, the boss decided to have a pot luck lunch?? Makes no sense then again maybe its to foster relationships I guess, well I picked salad so went to the market before driving up to the office. Each supposed to bring a dish, I shudder to think how we gonna get this act together
In the long run my field work has commenced with the drive to move outstation to refineries, part of the big push.... along with that I gave begun to accept freelance assignments. Time to head back....
Work Work Work
Work Work WorkWork Work WorkWork Work WorkWork Work WorkWork Work WorkWork Work WorkWork Work WorkWork Work WorkWork Work WorkWork Work WorkWork Work WorkWork Work Work and more work..............................
Today I step back into the Badminton Court after a long long long long time, out of shape, certainly of breath by the heart and mind say go go go go go
Subbie...nnei urundai nice ah....
Today I step back into the Badminton Court after a long long long long time, out of shape, certainly of breath by the heart and mind say go go go go go
Subbie...nnei urundai nice ah....
A gift from a fren many months back
DESCRIPTION: Clear. Medium-bodied. Dry. Reminiscent of red berries, herbs, wet stone. Moderately rich texture. Pleasant interplay of tart flavors, light spice and mineral notes. Clean fruit dominates finish.
Awesome!!!
Factory Fire
I witness a fire during the holidays as I was driving by it was so hot I could feel the heat through the car window.
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