SOCK IT TO ME! by Miss Deb

I am a double agent...

2011-09-01T16:34:00.002+08:00

Sort of.

Well, there's proof of it in my past. I was doing a Communication degree while I worked at a sex shop.

I worked for the coolest New Zealand iced tea company while I made sock monkeys.

And now, I work for the number one magazine in Malaysia while I...dream up new ways to lead a double life.

Where to from here?

xoxo
Miss Deb

No more waiting...

2011-05-30T19:18:00.001+08:00

I've held off from posting because I feel like I should be writing something epic, something life-changing but the truth is, the act of beginning is what I found the hardest. I wasn't sure what topic I should talk about or whether what I had to say was worth saying.

To heck with all that now because I've had an epiphany, I'd rather start and maybe screw up along the way than not start at all. I'd rather say something than be silent and I'd rather do something than sit down waiting for something to happen to me. Yes, all cliches but yes, all true nonetheless.

So here, my first post in over a year, here I am. No more editing, censoring and trying to be what I think other people want me to be.

Cheers to more days like this, when we all decide that excessive waiting is not the answer. Doing is.

Talk again soon,
Debs

KL hails monkey arrival...

2010-05-08T13:14:00.008+08:00

Or at least that's what the headlines should read since this hit the stands....
(Please overlook my sweaty gumby look, I'd already been jumping around in excitement for a while by then)

Remember the article I was telling you guys about a while back? Well the lovely people of IM magazine weren't slacking off, they just saved it for their crafty issue! No scanner at home so these will have to do for now! What a spread...thanks IM! See the online version here.

Baby sailor monkey does the intro...

Wee plug for Kraftbomb, Cross Street and Discovery Camp..

Surely a new sock monkey on stairs record...

Couldn't leave out the culprit of my craft obsession - my mum!

And lastly, go forth and multiply my freaky toe sock creation...Muahahaha...(queue frankenstein music!)

Another big thanks to IM and viva la sock monkey revolution!

xoxo
Miss Deb

May issue of CLEO

2010-05-01T13:42:00.002+08:00

Yeeyah!

This is my first issue!! As you can probably tell from my expression tee hee hee...

Will have to post scanned copies of my columns and articles asap but just wanted to share the excitement!

Big hugs to everyone who knew I had it in me before I did, you are loved!
Miss Debs

This Saturday...

2010-04-24T14:17:00.003+08:00

Hello everybody,

This post may be a little disjointed as I've been awake since 5am! I had a photo shoot to do for my feature story so we had to get in when the girls were training. We've got a gap til the last shoot at 6pm so I'm laxing with the boys at the studio. I've just had a huge lunch of Unagi Kimchi Omelette so I'm feeling quite drowsy. I've already selected the photos from this morning's shoot but I don't have the concentration to work on the copy yet. Oh well!

What else is new? I'm poorly. Things have been mad busy at work so it's not surprised that the exhaustion reared its ugly head in the form of a snotty nose and a frog in my throat. I had mad dreams last night because I couldn't breathe properly but Dean was nice enough to let me use his awesome pillow so I did get some sleep. Am hoping the hectic schedules will ease up a little but no sign of that happening on the horizon! The difference now compared to my time at acorn is that I want to have more energy so that I can keep going and going!

Anyway, gonna chill and watch some AFC before 6pm!

Big hugs to all!
Miss Debs

Bachelors, Speed Dates, Dance Rehearsals, oh my!

2010-04-18T15:29:00.004+08:00

Hello my pretties,

It's been ages! I do apologize for my absence. My world currently consists of all things CLEO so I'm such a nana, in bed by 10pm when I can and working my behind off the rest of the time.

It's been awesome. Am loving the people I get to call my colleagues, they are just as crazy as I am so it's like I've found my tribe! There's often lots of chatter and laughter coming from our cubicle as well as interesting story swapping and food sharing.

The writing bit has been tough but good. I think having to produce usable copy at the drop of a hat is terribly challenging but I'm hoping it'll get easier. Am doing 4 advertorials for this issue and hoping to do 2 feature stories as well, oh and of course, there's the 5 monthly columns I have to do. Now can you see why I haven't been blogging???

On top of that, April is the month of CLEO's Most Eligible Bachelors!

We just had the speed date event yesterday which was a blast. Most of the guys have been super easy to deal with but of course there's the occasional whiney one that needs a good smacking hahaha. Still hilarious to get to hang with them and help them out when the pressure's on. The finale is at the end of this month so we've still got dance rehearsals going on and a heck of a lot more work to do!

Aside from the work front, all is well in Deb and Dean world. We just had a good friend of ours visit, not under the most positive circumstances but it was still a treat to have a slice of NZ in our home. Thank goodness she brought real chocolate and Marmite! Oh and my mum's coming to visit while Dean's away, which means there's lots of sewing and shopping to be had! Life has significantly changed since my stint with unemployment, no more sleep-ins or time-killing by the pool. Its all go go go from here on out. BUT, I wouldn't have it any other way.

Hugs and kisses,
Miss Deb

Jobs and kisses...

2010-03-16T08:50:00.004+08:00

Sorry for the lack of posts my little bunnies! Work has been crazy busy. There's so much new information to absorb that I come home mentally exhausted and am sound asleep in my nana jammies by 10pm. I'm in my second week now and I think I'm slowly getting the hang of things and hoping to time manage a bit better so nobody has to suffer without their deb-fix.

Lots of exciting stuff going on, I'm learning about tearsheets and job bags and today I get to go 'shopping' for clothes for this weekend's photo shoot.

Got to run, I've got a few more things to suss before we head out to the shops. So, I'll leave you with a delectable wearable that I'm dying to get my mits on!

Straight from Chocolate Town USA, I give you the Silver Hershey kiss Necklace:

xox
Miss Deb

Something for 'this' weekend maybe?

2010-03-05T11:33:00.006+08:00

Have I died and gone to bag heaven? This is adorable.

Overnight bag - vintage travel design

A beautiful overnight bag with ‘Something for the Weekend’ embroidered on the poppered front pocket. The bag also has two pretty charms: a metal plane and a pvc postage stamp embossed with ‘travel in style’. A handy zipped inner pocket and phone pocket help keep your valuables safe.

Kudos to the lovely Megan from Charade for this fabulous find!

I've got a thing for maps, and old school envelopes and this vintage shape of bag...SO this is perfect!

I will have you...one day soon!
Miss Deb

While I'm at it, I think I'll have the entire vintage travel series please! Look at these...found after I'd finished the post...squeal, love the cheeky inscriptions too!!

Alma..

2010-03-04T13:06:00.004+08:00

This is so beautifully tragic!

Alma from Rodrigo Blaas on Vimeo.

Written and Directed by: Rodrigo Blaas
Produced by: Cecile Hokes
Music: Mastretta
Art Director: Alfonso Blaas
Lighting Supervisor: Jonatan Catalán
Character Technical Supervisor: Jaime Maestro
Character Design: Bolhem Bouchiba, Carlos Grangel,
Sergio Pablos, Santi Agustí
Animation: Daniel Peixe, ManueBover, Remi Hueso
Sound Design: Tom Myers and David Hughes
Post Production Coordinator: David Heras
Special Thanks: Keytoon, Next Limit, UserT38

Full credits: almashortfilm.com

Caught in a daydream...

2010-03-04T10:24:00.005+08:00

This week has been so surreal...much like this creation by Ninja vs Penguin.

It doesn't feel like my last week of freedom and yet thoughts of Monday release the swarm of butterflies in my tummy. I've decided to tidy the house and organize my wardrobe before the chaos starts but so far, I've only mustered enough drive for the cleaning part. It's like I'm walking around in a daze...

It's been one of those weeks that so much has happened it feels like a month's gone by - we got into a car accident the other day (don't worry, nobody was hurt) and my parents came home from holiday to find the family broken into. Sigh...I know it all happened for a reason but because I've been feeling anxious about it all that now it's sorted I'm feeling numb today and tired. Boo...this is lame...

Think I'll go for a swim to clear my head!

Hugs,
Miss Deb

Made me smile...

2010-03-03T11:34:00.006+08:00

Hello chickadees,

I've had a nightmare couple of days but I was reading one of my favourite blogs - by the gorgeous Sarah Von and came across this...

If you want to learn more about this delectable functional work of art, you can go here.

xoxo
Miss Deb

I am this happy...

2010-02-25T14:27:00.005+08:00

And it feels like the excitement is going to explode out of my body!

I got the CLEO job I was hoping and wishing and praying for!!

It sort of happened all at once yesterday...

I got 2 calls for 2 interviews - one for a copywriter position and the other for a youth camp leader position so I was thinking to myself, this is nice. Especially after my last post haha...

Then in the afternoon, I got a call from the magazine. When the call ended, I screamed and jumped around like a mad person for a bit before I regained composure to call the boy.

I am so so so stoked. I know it's going to be hard and a bit of an uphill climb at first but I finally feel, for the first time in a long while, that I'm headed in the right direction. I know this because I lay awake smiling last night while I was lulled by a montage of my thoughts, images and ideas for the job doing a happy line dance together in my head..

Mmmm, this is good.
Miss Deb

Be gone all you obstacles!

2010-02-23T23:07:00.004+08:00

So, why has the blog river run dry despite the fact that my iBaby is up and running?

Hit by a nasty cold - check
The kind that makes you feel like someone emptied your brains out and refilled it with cotton wool. Ugh! It was the worse timing ever because I was almost through my exercise 'threshold'! It's frustrating but I guess I know I've almost done it once, so when I try again I'll be just that little bit closer.

Popped my hip out of place - check
Before you freak out, please know that I am on the mend now. I've been to the chiropractor twice and I've got one last appointment on Friday. Now, if you move your attention to the diagram above...my S1 was the bit that popped out of place. It's the attaching bit to your hip and the bit of your spine that's closest to your behind when your sitting. I still don't know how I did it but I just happen to notice a hard bump on my lower back and it hurt when I tried to squish it away like you would a knot or pinched nerve. I found out what was really poking out when I was at the doctors and he reckons it was caused gradually by bad sitting posture...so our couch is the culprit...yeah yea yeah, and me for sitting there for long periods of time. My spine has been snapped and cracked back into place now and I even had some sort of electric pulses and a special physio ultrasound thingy done to me to help the torn tissue heal faster. Ah, chiropractic care, you've done it again!

Dang it, when it rains it sorta pours though doesn't it. I was just telling the boychum the other day that I was feeling a whole lot better about our new life here...then I get hit by one uphill climb after another. Good news is, once all the uphill bits are over, what's left? The view from the top and the easy fun ride down! So bye bye tough stuff and hello good times!

Which part of the 'hill' are you at right now? :)

Gentle hugs for now..
Miss Deb

It's ALIVE!

2010-02-18T16:25:00.004+08:00

Unfortunately we were unable to retrieve anything off the hard drive but thankfully my last back up was in January. Funnily enough though, my most productive 3 weeks were between then and now so not a speck of those articles or photos from my birthday were saved! Alas, such is life. Everything happens for a reason right?!

Anyway, I just wanted to let you know I'm back. Terribly brain dead from getting my laptop back to the way I like it so goodbye for now!

Catch ya
Miss Deb

Fried hard drive...

2010-02-11T11:44:00.004+08:00

This is the reason for my abrupt silence. I heard little clicking noises coming out of my MacBook before my Safari crashed. I shut down the computer and when I tried to turn it back on an icon of a folder with a question mark popped up and blinked at me.

So, after some first aid from Dean's IT man at work, I've found that I fried yet another hard drive. And guess what? My last back-up was a while ago. So, if we fail to temporarily resuscitate the hard drive I will have lost all my recent photos and a couple of my articles too. What a bummer! I find writing something the second time round lacks a certain oomph factor...oh well!

I'm typing this up on the boychum's netbook. It has the tiniest keyboard that even I find cramped and I have little hands. How does he do it?

Well I better run, back up your computers now people!

Miss Deb

Wrap up of the week..

2010-02-05T10:37:00.003+08:00

A thousand apologies for the lack of post this week! Here's why:

Monday was a public holiday but I started working on my article about green living that suits the Malaysian lifestyle.

Tuesday I put the finishing touches on that article and got to have dinner with our lovely friend Michelle.

Wednesday I emailed 2 magazines regarding freelance writing work - Expat Lifestyle and Blu Inc (the people who do Marie Claire, Shape and a bunch of other magazines here). I also started working on an article about me and my sock monkeys for a Malaysian indie magazine called I.M.

Thursday I got in touch with the editor of Cleo to see what's the latest with that prospective job and she'll be deciding by the end of the month. Keep them fingers cross for me, won't you?! I also sent through the sock monkey article to I.M. and I think they're going to publish it! I also started working on an article about my experience of growing up, leaving then returning to Malaysia for MANZA magazine. Quite a few people have expressed an interest in that story.

Today, I'm sleepy, at about 3 am last night, the fire alarm in our condo building went off! So I hope to have a relaxed one and keep working on that last article and think up a few more topics I'd like to write about in the coming week. All suggestions are welcome! There's also some thought of re-branding for my blog.

I managed to hit the pool every day this week too.

Will keep you posted, lovelies! Hope you had a good week.
Miss Deb

An orange muffin day...

2010-01-28T15:05:00.006+08:00

So people, I finished my 'test' article for CLEO and sent it off this morning, here's hoping it gets a gold star!

After the gym I decided it was time to break out some of the baking goodies I got for my birthday...

This is essentially what I'm like in the kitchen. :)

Anyhoo, I was lucky enough to get 3 mixing bowls in the end, a spatula, a measuring cup, an oven mit and all sorts of other non-baking items. So being unemployed and all, I didn't exactly want to make an extravagant 3 tier cake or anything so like anybody who's still plagued with student economics I first had a look at what I had lurking in the fridge. Then I had a look online and found this awesome basic muffin recipe. Here it is with my changes:

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
3 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup white sugar
1 egg
Zest of 3 oranges
1 cup milk (I used the juice from the oranges and added milk to make it up to 1 cup)
1/4 cup vegetable oil

Directions

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (205 degrees C).
Stir together the flour, baking powder, salt and sugar (and grate in orange zest, as soon as you hit the white bit of the skin move on to a new spot ok? Or else they'll be bitter) in a large bowl.

Make a well in the center. In a small bowl or 2 cup measuring cup, beat egg with a fork. Stir in milk and oil. Pour all at once into the well in the flour mixture.

Mix quickly and lightly with a fork until moistened, but do not beat. (As you know, the key to a good fluffy soft muffin is minimal stirring) The batter will be lumpy.

Pour the batter into paper lined muffin pan cups. (If you have a non-stick muffin tin you don't have to bother with the muffin cups and always half fill or else you'll encounter the overflowing muffin effect)

Bake for 25 minutes, or until golden.

Other Variations: Blueberry Muffins: Add 1 cup fresh blueberries. Raisin Muffins: Add 1 cup finely chopped raisins. Date Muffins: Add 1 cup finely chopped dates. Cheese Muffins: Fold in 1 cup grated sharp yellow cheese. Bacon Muffins: Fold 1/4 cup crisp cooked bacon, broken into bits.

Now you should know that I have a citrus phobia, so cutting and juicing and zesting the orange was huge. I didn't think I was going to actually eat any but they smelled so good when I took them out of the oven. So I took a mouthful only to realize they tasted fabulous too. It's not too sweet so if you have a sweet tooth you might want to dust it with a little icing sugar but I swear the more you chew the flavours and the sweetness come through. YUM!

Wanna see?

Mmmm...nom nom nom!

xoxo
Miss Deb

The life of leisure...

2010-01-26T15:12:00.006+08:00

Hello puppies...how's it hanging?

Yes, jobhunting is well, going. I have a few things in the mix that I hope to hear back from this week. Meanwhile, in my spare time, I have been going to the gym, sewing sock monkeys, watching movies while stuffing monkeys and reading lots. I wanted to share a few books and a lovely movie I watched today.

There's a library at MANZA (Malaysian, Australian, New Zealand Association) House which I visited recently. If you don't know this already, I'm a huge fan of libraries and borrowing instead of buying books. I've yet to find a public library nearby to where we live. The great thing about the MANZA library is that most of the books were donated by expats traveling around like us, so I am pleased to report that it is a treasure trove.
I finished Backpack by Emily Barr which I think is a must read for people who've travelled around Asia. It is a bit of a thriller too so don't read it while you are traveling alone if you scare easily like me. I could really relate to her experiences, not the 'charlie' withdrawals but the misconception of some travel destinations in Asia. Her skewed view of her relationship with Tom tugged at my heart strings, do we all have to go through the same thing? I guess so...

Also, finished Lolly Winston's Sophie's Bakery for the Broken Hearted. Now that lady can write! It was an absolute pleasure to read...and extremely relatable and very funny. I highly recommend this one to anybody who loves books about falling over and finding yourself. It was a little like Eat, Pray, Love minus the zen wisdom. Looking forward to reading more stuff by her!

And lastly, I watched Julie and Julia this afternoon. A beautiful movie about learning to cook French cuisine and the cathartic nature of cooking. I loved it, Meryl Streep is adorable in it and Amy Adams wasn't too bad either, I can't say I'm usually a big fan of hers. Watch it, but if you're not convinced, think about this: Passion. Ambition. Butter. Do you have what it takes?

Our lovely friend Michelle's birthday bash is this evening. She doesn't know this yet but she's getting her very own sock monkey tonight. Yay! Happy Birthday, love!
Speaking of birthdays, yes, I know I still owe you a post on mine...I haven't forgotten, let's just say it's taken me a little while to recover. Tee hee hee!

Talk soon and I hope you're having a howdy-do-dee day!
Miss Deb

Reveling in a good day...

2010-01-21T16:07:00.003+08:00

Aaah, I liked today.

This morning I made myself go to the gym even though my brain came up with half a dozen reasons for why I shouldn't. I defeated that silly voice and plan on making it disappear altogether one day.

At lunch time, I was so anxious about the upcoming interview but it was impossible to let it get me down with the number of supportive messages flooding my Facebook page wishing me luck and sending me warm fuzzies.

This afternoon I headed to an interview an hour earlier fearing I'd get lost along the way. I didn't get lost but I had some time to relax and collect my thoughts beforehand. By the time, I stepped into the office I was as cool as a popsicle and the adrenalin in my body was starting to wear off a little so I didn't babble like a crazy person or go too far off topic. I think I made a good impression but more importantly, I feel like I was totally myself and not a shell of the person I think they want me to be. It's nice to feel real and for it to be okay.

When I stepped out of the elevator afterwards, I was greeted by a torrential storm. How was I going to flag a taxi without becoming a drowned rat? A taxi just happened to drive up to the front of the foyer, I asked if he was waiting for someone and he said yes. So I went back to staring at the rain from inside the building, willing it to stop so I could go home. 2 minutes later, the same taxi man came in to ask me where I was headed, I told him and he drove me there.

Isn't it awesome when some days feel easy? I think I'll try and look out for how easy things can be in the hopes that more days like this one come along.

What's something or someone that made your life a little easier/better today?

xoxo
Miss Deb

Back to my old tricks...

2010-01-20T11:09:00.002+08:00

I love my mum...her sewing machine foot peddle died and came back to life, but not before she bought a spiffy spare machine as she had some sewing emergencies. So guess who inherited the NEW sewing machine...Oh yeah, baby...

And the result:

Muaahahahhaha!
Miss Deb

Sweaty but happy!

2010-01-18T13:43:00.003+08:00

Just got back from one of those...

I'm trying to get into a routine before working life comes in to trample on my strong, muscle-y plans. Wanted to share with you a few tunes that help keep me pumped...

1. Heaven - DJ Sammi

2. Silence - Delerium feat. Sarah McLachlan (Tiesto Remix)

3. O'Saya - Slumdog Millionaire

What's your favorite workout song? You know, the one that keeps you going for just seconds longer when you think you're really going to pass out on the threadmill this time..:)

Off to the showers,
Miss Deb

How NOT to host an interview

2010-01-16T01:05:00.002+08:00

I just got back from an interview this morning and realized within a matter of moments that it wasn't for me. Believe me, I'm all for giving people the benefit of the doubt but I really believe that company's need to know how to make the opportunity to work for them irresistable. I want to work for a company that is well presented, offers interesting opportunities and fuels my creativity. So, while I was sitting in the waiting room pondering my existence, I came up with a few thing employers shouldn't do if they want to find high quality employees and a maybe a few clues to look out for for the unsuspecting jobseeker.

1. Office space does not equal pig stye storage area:

Unless your dream job is to be a traveling salesman, I think it's safe to assume that you will be spending a lot of time in the office. In said work area, you will have to function tirelessly, fight off unwanted stress, channel creativity and create solutions. Unfortunately I believe it is beyond challenging if not virtually impossible to do so with perfectly functional rooms and corridors strewn with countless spare parts that can be likened to what computers would throw up, if they could. It doesn't give a very good first impression, on the contrary, makes one wonder if this is a sign of how the company does business - carelessly and disorganized.

2. Do not be late for the appointment:

It is common belief that this applies to both employer and potential employee however I've come to observe otherwise. Few companies keep to pre-scheduled appointments with potential employees. This is quite a shame as we all know that leading by example is the best way to lead. A lack in punctuality could mean the inability to to prioritize or juggle tasks effectively.

3. Do not answer your phone while interviewing me.

This is a huge No-no. It is simply common courtesy especially when a potential employee has been alloted a short period of your time, it is only fair that they receive your undivided attention. Failing to do so often results in people feeling unappreciated, worthless and therefore resentful.

4. Do not go for more than an hour.

An interview is meant to be an opportunity for both parties to meet, discuss the job on offer and figure out if the collaboration is meant to be. Discussing these details shouldn't take more than an hour as that leaves the chance to speak off topic wide open. A clearly structured meeting makes it possible to ascertain all the necessary information in the shortest period of time.

5. Do not ramble...

There is much information to be gained from an initial meeting. So, to make this easily digestible employers review CVs while chatting to applicants. In an ideal world, a similar CV-like document about the company would be given so that jobseekers can also understand or ask questions about the organization. It is important to remember that delving into an in-depth recount of the company's 10 year history is highly unnecessary. Clear, concise information is key.

6. Have some manners, please!

It is important to remain polite and courteous at all time. It isn't nice to read and snigger at a potential employee's CV in front of them, or look at their clothes and mumble something under your breath or inform them that they are not your first choice. The fact that you are taking the time to interview them surely means they possess some talent. Therefore, it is pointless to belittle or demean them when they are already anxious and wanting so much to impress you. Being gracious, humble and understanding is a skill for life.

7. Do not compromise my standards.

It is vital to be clear on the company's values and standards. Only when an employee knows of what is being asked of them can they excel and achieve. However, in the unlikely event that they uphold higher standards than the company, it is safe to assume that convincing them otherwise is unhelpful. Instead it should be viewed as an opportunity to utilize their abilities to raise the company's standards and obtain a competitive edge.

8. Sell the job to me.

This doesn't mean misrepresenting the job. On the contrary, it is speaking of the challenges while highlighting the rewards and opportunities. It is painting a picture of the possibilities. Telling of the countless long days with no breaks or overtime isn't a unique selling feature. However, if a company feels that due to previous experience or high turnover that this is absolutely necessary information to impart, it may be time to review the their priorities, values and work ethics. It is a known fact that companies that take care and care for the well-being of their employees get a happy and highly effective crew in return.

9. Do not burn bridges.

From the sea of people interviewed, there will only be one or two selected to join a company. However, every interviewed individual will take with them an idea of what the company represents. It is a small world out there, so make it a positive one. Word of mouth is a terribly powerful thing; amazingly helpful or thoroughly damaging. After all, six degrees of separation is all that stands between someone worthwhile and whether your company is worth dealing with.

10. Do what you say and say what you do.

This is a simple promise but a hard act to follow. If parameters are created, for instance, shortlisted candidates will be notified in two days, then it is essential that they are contacted within that time frame. Failing to do so, they should still be informed of the delay. It is the little things that make a company stand out in an ocean of faceless Capitalism.

Have I missed anything? Feel free to leave me a comment.

P/s Images taken from Google Images. :)

xoxo
Miss Deb

25 things I want for my 25th birthday... (Part 2)

2010-01-15T05:59:00.001+08:00

Good morning puppies!

Today's 5 potential present ideas for Miss Deb come from the awesome-mest online shop on the planet - fredflare.com

It is safe to say that I'd adore anything you choose from this website. So without further delay...

1. Hot shot! Camera ring

2. Rain parade mini umbrellas

3. This airmail pouch...

4. Gingham "I Heart You" dress - swoon!

5. And finally, everyone needs a bacon wallet!

More to come...
xoxo
Miss Deb

25 things I want for my 25th birthday... (Part 1)

2010-01-14T17:01:00.014+08:00

10 sleeps to go, people! So, just in case any of you are feeling particularly generous, here are a few items that would do well as 25th birthday type pressies...

1. A wonderful Lomo:

2. This fabulous necklace inspired by Sophie from Mamma Mia and handmade by onelifejewellery

3. Some new togs would be nice, mine are sagging in all the wrong places! These 50s inspired ones would be perfect.

4. If possible, I'd like a big box of this...

The skill not the book...

5. This gorgeous tattoo as seen on my blog crush Bleubird Vintage:

6. A nice mixing bowl so I can stop marinating or combining things in my sauce pan and any other baking related items are much welcomed:

7. A sharp knife set so I can have sliced instead of mushed tomatoes in my sandwiches...

8. I'd like to finally know my purpose in life please...

9. I heart charm bracelets like this one from littleminds:

10. Nothing says love like stationery! Like this fabulous journal and cute note paper from Bust Boobtique

Tune in tomorrow folks, for more gift ideas!

xoxo
Miss Deb

Kick job-hunting blues...

2010-01-07T13:58:00.010+08:00

You spoke to your ex-colleagues and they tell you that they're drowning in work. They would trade and arm and a leg to be in your shoes but why do you feel like a sack of potatoes anyway? So you've applied to a couple of places but you haven't heard back. There are a few that are taking a while to get back to you giving your imagination an excuse to create elaborate scenarios of how they must've already rejected you if they've taken this long. Here's what you've got to do. STOP THINKING. Easier said then done so here are 5 distractions to help you:

1. Change your state with music - queue your party-starter tune on your iPod and dance around the apartment. And I mean dance, like a child crazed with wonder, just focus on the beats or the lyrics, whatever does it for you to lift you out of your foul mood. Oh and resist the natural urge to put on something dark and ominous, and No, you don't want to plunge deeper into the depths of misery, if you did you wouldn't be reading this! x

2. Exercise - Yes, that can be a scary word but it can be anything as long as it gets you breathless. So brisk walk to the dairy, jump in the pool, sprint around the block. Take care to not hurt yourself in the process but the simple act of getting up to attempt any of the above will drive you. Momentum is key, you can't take one step without taking another then another then another...

3. Cook - As much as you think you are culinarily challenged I bid to differ. It's about starting small to gain more confidence before you attempt that lamb roast with homemade mint sauce and mustard vinaigrette roast vegetable salad. Don't hurry, you are in charge of the kitchen so take things slow. Sometimes it helps to chop everything up and have it ready before starting. Many people feel like they have to cook as they go so the stove is on and the garlic is turning black while they are trying to dice up the meat and they wonder why it spells out disaster. Just stay calm and cool and you'll do just fine. In many ways, this one's a double whammy - you're also helping save money while the cash flow is slow. Frozen homemade meals are awesome when the tummy is starved and the chef is unwilling.

4. Change the scenery, make the ordinary extraordinary - now it's time to get off your behind and make the simple tasks fun. If you have to look for jobs, consider taking your newspaper or laptop and internet down to the pool side. A little fresh air and Vitamin D never hurt anyone. If you have to clean the house, turn on some music and work it out while you do it. If you've got to do ironing, consider moving it to in front of the TV.

5. Me time - I don't care why you are unemployed at the moment. What i care about is that you are wasting time moping around. Your time will come when all the days merge from working non-stop and you've forgotten what it's like to eat a meal sitting down. So for now, enjoy this. Recharge. Don't feel guilty, this is useful downtime to work on YOU. Buy a magazine, read a book, go window-shopping, get a haircut. It's like someone pushed the pause button so you could catch up so don't waste it! Set yourself up for a huge win in the not too distant future!

Remember, you have to be in tip-top condition when that dream job of yours comes knocking. If you don't feel that way, you've got to act as if until it comes naturally. If you saw yourself in your jammies, watching day time television and eating cereal all day, would you hire you? I promise you'll forget all those negative job-hunting jitters once you've had a shower, put on something cute, and started living.

xoxo
Miss Deb

Writer's block...

2010-01-05T16:11:00.003+08:00

"I used to get away with so much, now I can't get away." -Michelle Branch, Hotel Paper.

Bring it on 2010!

2010-01-01T20:25:00.004+08:00

Still recovering from last night's festivities but I wanted to wish you a very Happy New Year. I promise an in-depth post on what we got up to as well as a recount of our recent trip to Malacca!

So my dear readers, yeeyah for 2010. I wish you a year full of good health, dreams becoming realities, self-belief and unfailing willpower!

xoxo
Miss Deb

I'm dreaming of a Malaysian Christmas...

2009-12-26T13:45:00.001+08:00

Watch this space to see what Santa brought me this year!

xoxo
Miss Deb

A happy hamster holiday...

2009-12-23T18:10:00.005+08:00

Hello...

Miss Deb's too busy with pending Christmas festivities to do a post today so I volunteered.

I'm Chuck her Roboski hammie.

All I want for Christmas is more yummy yummy sunflower seeds, they are my favorite.

I could lie here all day and talk about them...

But I won't, no time to waste. I'm off for a run on my awesome orange wheel.

Merry eve of Christmas eve everybody.
- Chuckie Monster

Never again...

2009-12-22T20:16:00.003+08:00

Never is a strong word to use, yes, but I owe it to myself to not let this happen again. This is me after my first day at my last job. I started at 9 am and finished at 9 pm that night. I hadn't had dinner so that was me, eating beans on toast while sitting on the floor, I was so hot and sweaty and hungry and grumpy that the cool marble floor was the only thing calming me down, that and my extremely understanding and patient man-friend.

Someone told me today that they thought my writing style was FLUFFY and asked if I knew how to write serious stuff at all. The hilarity, they'd only read my CV and that was meant to be tongue in cheek as its sole purpose was to grab a potential employer's attention enough to score an interview. Funny thing is I'd always believed that flair was something you couldn't teach and having a distinct style of writing (be it fluffy or not) that people easily related too was desirable. Oh that's right I forgot, I'd only change my mind if their opinions counted.

Sirens were going off in my head when they felt the need to TELL me that they were in the servicing industry instead of making me feel serviced. Why do people fail to realize that at the end of the day I am just another consumer, I may not know anybody important now but when I do, do you really think I'll recommend them? On the contrary, I'm probably going to tell them to avoid them and their 'services' like a plague.

So to them I say, "So long suckers...oh and don't look so surprised when I walk away without begging you to hire me."

xoxo
Miss Deb

My little sweet sugarcoated iceberg...

2009-12-21T11:19:00.001+08:00

xoxo
Miss Deb

Blog crush on Bleubird Vintage

2009-12-19T08:00:00.001+08:00

How adorable is this poster from daisey chic!
I came across it on the lovely Bleubird Vintage blog! Reading her blog is bliss...

xoxo
Miss Deb

This is just fabulous...

2009-12-18T08:00:00.001+08:00

Taken from the equally fabulous writings of Bleubird Vintage

xoxo
Miss Deb

I can get no...SATISFACTION

2009-12-17T11:03:00.003+08:00

Actually,
I lie, at the moment I am extremely satisfied, and, if I may be so bold, HAPPY!

Yesterday I handed in my resignation. Little did I know that a simple piece of paper was the key to my freedom. Well, yes I did know that but I mean literally feeling like the ball and chain had disappeared. I know of something I read that will sum up what I felt quite clearly but I suspect only Twilightians will comprehend...I didn't quite imprint but when Jacob said it was as though all ties with the world had gone snip snip snip and all that mattered was her. Similarly, when the deed was done, I felt that finally I'd found what mattered most - Me.

If that was the sole purpose of this work experience, I would gladly do it again.

Don't get me wrong, I am grateful for the steep learning curve that I was presented with but I truly believe that there is more than one route to the finish line. Life is way too short to work late endlessly. Some may think at 25 I am too young to be thinking that way but I already know that I'm not going to jump for joy in 10 years when I realize I spent that whole time stuck in an office. I don't think you're ever too young to pursue what you truly want to get out of this lifetime.

People in the industry tell me working this way is to be expected, I don't believe you. You're not seeing the bigger picture, work is only one facet of this beautiful life you've been given. It is possible to achieve a balance. And if it isn't, I'm sure striving for it is a step in the right direction.

An important lesson - I've come to know that what I fear most is that stagnant/stuck feeling - Like you're standing at a dead end, up against a wall but you just keep pacing next to it wondering if you'll ever get to the other side. This was my wall and I finally decided it was time to walk away, get a map and find an alternative.

It's like the fog's been lifted and I feel like it's okay to be me again. I need to remember this because as life has it, there will be many more walls in my path but this will serve as a reminder of the many maps out there and that I'll never be stuck for long.

xoxo
Miss Deb

Ah...my 80th post is about...

2009-11-24T11:45:00.003+08:00

The Hami-nator Home...

Yes our little Roboski Hamsters, Chuck and Morgan live here...so technically eventhough we're not allowed pets in the apartment, I don't consider them living IN the apartment since they have their own home right?!

Am stuck at home sick today...and I'm so bored...too tired to do anything but frustrated 'cos I feel like I'm wasting a sick day. Gah. Going to go eat my feelings now hahahahah...

xoxo
Miss Deb

Malaysian Road Rules

2009-11-21T15:22:00.003+08:00

Was out and about today and came across this. Confused much?

Hello weekend...

2009-11-20T23:16:00.002+08:00

This is a green tea latte.
Yes, it looks foul but no, on the contrary, it does not taste that way.
This was my new discovery of the week. Having seen so many Facebook updates of people addicted to the stuff I finally decided to try it. And, yes...if you're a green tea fan...and a warm milky non-coffee drink sorta person, this ones for you. Funnily enough I liked it best because I could taste the green-ness floating along with the frothy goodness but caffeinated colleagues said it was way to milky for their liking.

Ah Starbucks, you've done it again. :)

P.s Photo was taken on my new cell! Will tell you more about my Sony C510 next time.

Have a fabulous weekend 'cos you know you deserve it!

Much love, xoxo
Miss Deb

I think I'm due for an update...

2009-11-16T21:17:00.003+08:00

Yeah, that might just be an understatement. I can't believe it's been that long since I last updated!

But what counts is that I'm here now right, clicking away rapidly...

I'm pretty sure I'm getting better at my job but it's hard to tell sometimes when I feel I'm continuously being challenged. The long hours are still a massive pain in the behind but I've more or less come to terms with it now. The boychum's been fabulous, making or buying back dinner most nights since I only get home after 7pm.

It's crazy that we've been in Malaysia for almost 3 months now. On Halloween we celebrated our 1 year anniversary...is time just passing me by helplessly or what. I can't imagine doing any of this with anyone else though...(blush)

So, some of you might know that I went to a runway show that was part of the Malaysian International Fashion Week. Photos have turned out a bit crummy as I only had my phone on me and I was too busy drooling over the male models...Yes, I too was pleasantly surprised that work gave me tickets to the men's world section.

Anyhoo, I was trying to post up some photos so you don't forget what I look like but the internet's being a bit of a drag...it'll just have to wait til next time.

Hope all is well with you and only a week or so more to go before New Moon comes out!

xoxox
Miss Deb

Agency Life and Evil Rental Agents..

2009-10-15T11:47:00.003+08:00

So it's taken me this long to have a spare moment to tell you all about the new job. And that is truly not an exaggeration!

It's been absolute mayhem...

My first day...I had to leave early to make sure I'd get to work on time. Once I got there, nobody really trained me or anything (it's kinda silly, but nobody even told me where the loo was!), the big boss just started asking me about all these companies that I'd never even heard of in this life time. Then he piled on the reading assignment because of said ignorance...
I was also given a bunch of news releases to write straightaway. I officially left work that night at 9PM!! The next morning, I was to be shadowing one of the girls at an event which required me to be at the office at 7.15AM instead of the usual 9AM...which meant I was up at the crack of dawn just so I could get there on time.

Sigh...it sounds like an absolute nightmare of a day right? But worst still is the fact that everyone accepts this sort of lifestyle. Nobody at work knows when they finish everyday, it all depends. That is just nuts to me...

How am I coping you might wonder? My current favorite mindset is to treat everything like Uni. So I take notes about the companies and what PR we do for them in a notebook, filled with post-its and highlighter pen marks. Whenever I am unhappy about how something is done or the negative tone I have been instructed in I just think of syllabus and lecturers at uni...I might not have agreed with some of the teachings but I learnt it all anyway...This will be my biggest learning experience ever. I have a 5 month contract / probation period, I just have to make it to the finish line. :)

To top that off further, we were totally ripped off by the rental agent. Yes, the gorgeous apartment that I wrote about a few weeks ago was a disaster. He'd promised to have the place cleaned before we moved in, it was filthy when we got there...he said we had a gym at the condo, there was NO gym, he promised to have a iron and ironing board there, it was only loan to us until the next client asked for it...he promised a DVD player, it didn't even work. The final straw though was when we had to walk to the train station...you wouldn't believe this, it was a dark and dingy alleyway with giant sewage drains on both sides and cows roaming free. He never showed us this part of the suburb. Disappointment doesn't begin to express what we went through. I don't even know how we managed to cope...Dean was such a brave little soldier...he had a somewhat harsh exchange with the agent where the agent denied ever promising us anything and even said we didn't fulfill our side of the bargain! The cheek! In the end, we had to lose some money just so we could move out...that had to be the nastiest experience of my life to date. You think it's just a horror story that people tell until it happens to you.

Good news though, even though it turned out to be an expensive lesson, it was still an important lesson. We are currently using the rental agent provided by Dean's work to find a place that truly suits our needs. I've taken some time off work so we can house-hunt again and this agent has been positively superb. She told us yesterday that she doesn't expect us to choose anything after our first day, instead she just needed to get a better feel of what we were after. So today, we've got a few more places to look at. It is so refreshing to get some proper, sincere service around here. At the moment, we're crashing at a friend's and seriously considering living in this area. It's considered an ex-pat area but we now know that that doesn't just mean slightly more expensive rent, it also means better service and higher security - something we are no long willing to sacrifice.

On a lighter note...my bestfriend Linzhi is in town, can't wait to catch up with her this weekend! Oh and congrats to FaerySarah, Zoe is absolutely precious!

And, to all my lovely crafty blogger ladies, I miss all of you and your updates keep me sane. I may not have time to comment but know that you are one of the main reasons I feel I'm still okay amidst all the chaos. You are in my thoughts, always.

xoxo
Miss Deb

Last days as an un-employed...

2009-10-05T11:01:00.003+08:00

By Wednesday, I will no longer have time to sit around making daisy chains...hahaha!

I'm flying back to KL tonight. I've had the best time at home...haven't felt so carefree in a while. Mum and I have been talking lots and indulged in a pedicure and some shopping yesterday. Even had the chance to see a chiropractor/physiotherapist friend of my parents who treated me and made my fatigue and achy joints go away. We also uncovered the reason why I was tired and sore all over, I had no idea that I actually sleep on my front. When I wake up I'm often on my side or back but according to the boychum and now my mother, I do...that's been putting a strain on my neck! So now that we know, I'm going pillow shopping. Also, I'm no longer allowed to drink cold water or eat too much. I know it sounds like a bit of an old wives tale but I'm willing to give it a shot if it's going to make me feel better! Yay!

Isn't it wonderful when you look around and everything seems to be falling into place and without realizing it, the chaos that had previously engulfed you has slowly lifted, faded and disappeared. I feel like I can breathe again...

Mum's still busily sewing more work outfits for me as I'm typing this but I didn't bring my camera with me, but I will definately post photos up of her work once I get back.

Just thought to drop you a quick one and wish you a very exciting Monday!

"The sun is shining, the weather is sweet...want you to know I'm a rainbow too."
Miss Deb

Intensity...

2009-10-03T10:27:00.003+08:00

It's been rad spending the last couple of days with my mum...she's been busily sewing all my outfits for work and made me start sorting through stuff I left behind before leaving for NZ. She's trying to de-clutter the house. :) So today I've been going through my old CDs, ripping the ones I want to keep and chucking out the rest. I also came across some old teeny-angsty love letters...oh boy, how embarassing are those! Hahaha, and extremely endearing as well of course.

So, I thought I'd share a little since I've kinda got it on the brain at the moment...

When I was about 5 or 6, my mum sent me to kindy. Problem was, I really hated being away from my family and our home and always kicked up such a tanty about going. I pretty much went to every kindy in our town, as mum thought I just hadn't found the right one. At one stage, I hated one so bad that I stood at the gate and cried the whole day. My body was so stressed that I gave myself a fever and the teacher actually had to call my mum to take me home. In other words, mission accomplished I thought. :) Alas, my mum didn't give up, but I finally got settled into a little Methodist kindy a few blocks down from us. It was there that I met him for the first time. We were best friends almost instantly and I had the biggest crush on him. I can still remember he had trouble with his Chinese writing and I used to help him, and he used to lend me his colour pencils. Our brains remember the weirdest things?!

Anyway, after kindy, I didn't hear from him again. I went through primary school still pretty infactuated with him as every once in a while I saw him in church. I never got to speak to him though until one day, I started attending a tuition class to prepare for some exams. He was there...I couldn't believe my luck. Even better still, he remembered me and came up to talk to me. So time sort of progressed, we were really good friends and I was busy trying to figure out whether he liked me at all and whether I should just tell him that i fancied him, but of course I thought if I told him and he didn't feel the same way, that was the friendship out the window...So, I never told him...

The day came when I finished my classes at the tuition centre and I didn't have a chance to say goodbye to him. I still saw him at church every once in a while but he never came up to me ever again. I'd smile and he'd look away...it was awful. By the time I bumped into him in college I was sure he hated me.

I was student body president in college...his class was downstairs and mine was upstairs. He would say something to his friends as they walked by me and my friends and they would all burst out laughing...I started hating him back.

Then something crazy happened, I was organizing the prom and we were auditioning for dancers to perform on the night...he came to audition. Really not the kind of thing he would do, being the staunch guy that he was. I couldn't really face him, I kept wondering why someone who hated me so much wanted to be around me when he didn't have to be. I was so weary...I thought he actually had a crush on my bestfriend...

So the prom came and went...and one day out of the blue I got a text from him. At first I didn't know it was him obviously but found out later on that he had grabbed my number of a classmate of mine. Who obviously got a right grilling the next day for giving my number away...He explained that he had wanted to speak to me but was too shy...so we communicated like that for a while...and I remember the first time we were at an event after we'd started texting. It was a soccer match between his class and mine...the boys were very competitive so I wasn't allowed to cheer for his team...but he smiled a lot at me that day...I still remember the butterfly swarm in my belly!

Then one day, I was at a party at my best friend's place and he'd been texting me. He finally asked if he could come get me and take me for a wee drive somewhere. I said okay, as long as I was back by a certain time etc. I was so nervous that I was actually going to spend time alone with him. He finally came in his jeep and I got in, all I could muster was a very shy hello. He just smiled. We drove in silence but I kept hearing a rattling sound in the back of the car. I must've looked a little worried that the car was going to fall apart or something cos he said...'don't worry, it's just my balls'...I looked at him and we both burst out laughing. I remembered that he played tennis, that sound was the tennis balls rolling around in the metal bucket they were in.

Haha...good times...silly times...we went out for a little while but it didn't last. I came across poetry he'd written for me, and I found the break-up letter I wrote. His parents had forbidden him from being with me on account of my race....I didn't want it to end, but he grew so distant and when I finally heard it through the college grapevine that he was planning on breaking up with me, I decided to beat him to the finish line. I often wonder what it is we're meant to learn from such experiences...any ideas?

oxo
Miss Deb

Final Verdict: Commute!

2009-10-01T08:17:00.002+08:00

Yes, we signed the 6 month lease for our lovely 2 bedroom place yesterday! I guess I will be commuting to work everyday. Big thank you to everybody who gave me advice on the matter...it really helped a lot. I promise to post photos of our new place once we move in on the 10th of next month.

Now, I just finished packing as I'm headed off to Miri this morning for a couple of days with the rents. Dean is starting his new job training today too, I'm gutted that I won't be around for his first day but I'm sure he'll do perfectly. He's been so brave in all this, I really am very proud of him...(blush)...

Anyhoo, not sure if its blogspot or my internet connection that's playing up today but I can't seem to post any photos...so here's an I O U, I actually wanted to show you a photo of my favourite top...I bought it while we were staying on Khao San Road in Bangkok. Every time I wear it, I'm reminded of all the good times we had! AHA, it's working now...so here it is....

Hurray for Thursday, lovelies...keep warm or stay cool wherever you are!

Big hugs...
Miss Deb

Black canvas ballet flats, where art thou?

2009-09-29T11:45:00.006+08:00

I'm sitting at Starbucks in Mont Kiara waiting for the boychum. He's got a 'lunch interview' today. It's actually the second interview he's had with this company. He's been pretty darn lucky I reckon, he's been offered numerous jobs and now it's the hard part of deciding where to from here. I hope todays meeting will help him clarify his decision further.

As for me? I signed the contract to my new job yesterday and went and got a new bank account just minutes ago. Wow...it's quite surreal, just think this time next week I'll have something to do everyday. No more waking up late and having the toughest decision of the day be what do I want to eat. Tee hee hee. I'm off to see my parents on Thursday for a week...just figured I should take time off while I still can. Also, I needed a few outfits for work and my mum is my personal tailor. Yes, I know, I am very lucky. We're hoping to have some serious girl time together as dad's going to be away for some of it. So bring on the fabric shopping, tea-drinking, gossiping and soppy movie watching! I love my mum...if I could I'd carry a mini version of her in my pocket everywhere. :)

So why the topic title? You have no idea how hard it's been to get a simple pair of black flats. I know I've got quite specific criteria but I don't think it's unreasonable. I had a pair of black Gallaz flats that had white swiftlets flying down the side....I wore them till the soles were super holey, even then I couldn't really bare parting with them. Sigh...I should have just bought a spare pair. Maybe I'm searching the wrong keywords, I can't even pull up images of what I have in mind. I've looked into Gallaz and Vans, but can you think of any other brands that do cute fabric ballet flats? This is sort of what I had in mind - but maybe not so shiny...

It really has to be casual enough to go with shorts and dressy enough to be paired up with a cute dress. I know you get what I mean...:) Sigh...then I get sidetracked when I find cuties like these...

Gah...and the search continues...:)

XXoo
Miss Deb

To commute or not to commute...

2009-09-27T19:34:00.003+08:00

So we've spent most of the weekend looking for a new place to stay now that our jobs have narrowed down the options.

This morning we saw a place that i fell in love with almost immediately. It was tastefully furnished, within our price range and had a whole extra room and bathroom that we could rent out if we didn't have friends staying. It was so spacious and the kitchen was nice and big with a nice and big fridge to match...and it had a well-powered washing machine...not to mention the gym and swimming pool downstairs and how could I forget the little spare room/study that could easily be converted into a sewing room! The big question now is whether we are willing, whether I am willing to do an hour long commute everyday on the train. An hour long maximum and that includes me walking to one station and then from another station to my work. It really isn't so bad right?!

The other place we looked at was right in town but slightly out of our price range. It also greatly lacked the homely feel of the first place we saw.

Our alternatives are getting a car so we can live anywhere! Haha...the thing is, KL is the kinda city that isn't very big but someone made a bit of a mess with the roads. So even if you're only planning on going a short distance from A to B you'll probably get through the entire alphabet before actually arriving your destination. If we try and stay someplace closer to my work AND close to a train line, we'll probably be looking at only 1 bedroom and 1 bathroom for our price range! It makes sense to live a little further out right?!

Oh I don't know anymore...this being a grown up business and having to make decisions all the time is really quite a drag! Can someone just tell me what I'm meant to be doing so we can all go home?! :)

Now if someone would just let me live here, we wouldn't even be having this conversation.

xoxo
Miss Deb

I got the job!!!

2009-09-25T11:07:00.002+08:00

Hello!

Just thought to let you know that all the fingers and toes crossing worked! I got the offer letter today! I start on Wednesday the 7th.

Can you say super stoked?!

Big big hugs for you...

Does this mean the holiday's over?

Don't do vintage or edgy...

2009-09-24T08:44:00.000+08:00

I can now safely report, after scouring the streets and malls of KL that nobody does vintage or edgy clothing. So needless to say they don't have cool workwear in that vein either.

As soon as I get my first paycheck, I'm going to shop til my heart's content ONLINE! First stop, Etsy or maybe even Market Publique, can you recommend any good ones that ship overseas?

Then I'll get to have gorgeous little work/play outfits like this...

xoxo
Miss Deb

Take it easy...

2009-09-22T09:53:00.001+08:00

Hey sweetpea,
Hope you've had a fab week so far...

Just wanted to share with you my current wallpaper...

I took this in Singapore while we were exploring the botanical gardens.

Isn't she just perfect?

So don't forget to take it easy today...
Let the calm belief that you can handle anything wash over you, because you are perfect just the way you are.

xoxo
Miss Deb

Blog endurance...

2009-09-20T20:56:00.009+08:00

I salute you, lovely blog ladies for your ability to update the rest of us with such perseverance! It's like no matter how quiet the blog front may be you never give up on the fact that someone somewhere out there is reading and thoroughly enjoying every available online morsel. When I grow up, I want to be just like you.

But for now, I am simply proud that I've actually managed to steal a few minutes to myself to update you on my life. I will just have to prove my endurance in due time, tee hee hee!

So the boychum and I are currently in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. KL is the capital city of Malaysia. Since the last post, we left Miri and headed to Kuching and Kota Kinabalu (all 3 places are located on the island of Borneo). It was sad to say goodbye to my folks in Miri but necessary as we truly felt like we hadn't given the job-hunting a good shot by only applying from afar. Now that we're actually in KL, we can drop in and meet with managers/recruiters like normal people do. Here are some teaser photos of our trip to Kuching, look out for a more in depth post in the near future!

We trekked for 2.2 km in the blazing sun for this view. We had forgotten our togs but this beach was too good to past up on so we jumped in anyway...

The next day we went and visited the Orang Utan Sanctuary...look at this graceful little guy posing for me!

It's not been the easiest that's for sure. A learning experience for all as after a long day of interviews or even just unforgiving visits to recruitment agencies, it is tough to refrain from clawing each others eyes out for the darnest little things. Patience is a virtue right? Some days it is as impossible as a whale flying a plane.

On Friday I had my first job offer. However after a lot of thought I declined. Before I told them my decision I felt the need to justify my choice but once I'd done it the sense of relief that came over me was a sure sign that I'd chosen well. I am a firm believer in observing and noticing the little things. Many people say focusing on tiny details will only drive one insane but I think I'd rather be crazy than mislead. At the end of the day, you've just got to trust your gut and keep an eye out for the signs.

Yesterday I had another job interview with a PR company. I'm trying not to wish for it too hard but I think I want this one. I will only hear back next week but please keep your fingers crossed for me. It's been a while since I've felt this way. Job-hunting can be so de-moralizing but here's hoping I won't be unemployed for much longer. It was kinda funny actually. I had an interview with the big boss and tried my best to 'sell' myself without sounding cocky (I hate that part, can't they just read your CV, I always feel silly saying, 'oh look at me, I can do this and this and this at the same time!' hahaha). Anyhoo, we had a wee chat and he decided to give me an assignment there and then. Essentially I was given half an hour to write an essay about why the Malaysian currency should be re-pegged to the US dollar. Now, even if you've only met me once, you will know that this is not my strongest topic, far from it actually. I love talking about sock monkeys for crying out loud, do you really think I possess vast knowledge about currency? Gah...so I had a think about it and one of the parameters was that this essay/article wouldn't be directed at businessmen but instead the commoner, you're average joe or josephine who is a taxi driver or florist. So, I decided to improvise, I just figured I'd write the reasons that would make someone like me care. Half way through reading it he asked me what sort of papers I did at Uni, I'm not sure if that was a good sign or not. But what I think may be a good sign is the fact that he told me what my salary might be and that he'd have a word with the shareholders before letting me know. So once again, fingers and toes crossed for me okay?!

So what else is go at the mo...oh it's actually a special Malaysian festival today. It's the end of the Ramadhan fasting month and all Malays celebrate Hari Raya where they ask for forgiveness from their friends and family before everyone comes together for a big feed. Ah, the ultimate formula for a good celebration = awesome people and good food. As my family's not Malay we'd normally go and visit our Malay friends that were having open houses. To enlighten you about the term open house - it is to be taken literally. People would have their doors open to everyone and offer tidbits, drinks and sometimes meals to anyone that stops by. This is the sorta of stuff you can expect for Hari Raya:

What you see here is stewed lamb in a curry-ish spicy Malaysian sauce, sticky rice that been roasted over an open fire in a fragrant banana leaf encased in green bamboo, pineapple tarts and chocolate butter cookies. All you have to do is show up and tuck in. Sweet deal huh?
It's essentially the same process during Chinese New Year except it's the Chinese that have open houses and serve different cuisine. Our family used to have an open house during Christmas time but unfortunately all the siblings haven't been back at the same time during festive season so it's a tad tough to organize.

We managed to score some TV series so we've been catching up on Season 1 and 2 of Chuck and my personal favourite, Season 2 of Pushing Daisies. I think it's the most whimsical and beautiful series I've ever laid eyes on.

Sigh...that's probably the most creative thing I've done recently. But I remember reading somewhere that creativity can be found in the littlest of things, the trick is to see the beauty and acknowledge your creativity in noticing it. That often is thanks enough to the person who created it too. Doesn't mean I wouldn't give my left arm to have a sewing machine and some socks around to create and recharge right now though!

Tomorrow's a public holiday so we're hoping to head to Sunway Pyramid. It's actually a shopping mall that's connected to a theme park and water park. I'm in dire need of some proper non-traveller clothes for my potential job anyway...Ah, the sacrifices we have to make huh?!

Well I better go, want to finish processing the last of our Thailand and Cambodia photos so I can post them up here.

It's good to have my laptop back, I will finally have a decent shot at blogger endurance. Please feel free to give me a pat on the back, be that a virtual one, if I manage.

xoxo
Miss Deb

This is where I begin...

2009-09-01T21:25:00.003+08:00

I have no idea where to start with posts about our travels. There's a part of me that wants to live in my ideal parallel Deb universe where real time updates are possible. Boo hoo! Now, 2000 photos later I don't know where to start. I can't remember half the photos of ruins and rubble that I took in Cambodia and I've taken more recent photos since then that I feel the need to share first. Gah...so this is where I will start. Randomly in the middle of nowhere...:P

We are currently kicking back in the little town of Miri in East Malaysia but tomorrow we head of for a spur of the moment 10 day trip to Kuching and Kota Kinabalu. We are extremely excited to be roaming again after staying put for almost 2 weeks with the rents. It's an odd feeling for me being back here. This is where I grew up but even from a very young age I knew this wasn't where I belonged. Is it possible to feel so alien in your own backyard? Yep. I've never known why I stood out so much but I think now I don't care anymore that I do. Thanks to my time in Kiwi-land I know that I'm okay just the way I am. Big sigh....boy do I miss home!

Anyhoo, this will have to be a short one. Wanted to share some photos with you and tell you that I'm thinking about you.

Hope alls well with everyone. Special crafty blog lady shout outs:
Helene - love your new preggie dolly! She is beautiful!
Bronwyn - Excited about my piggy ring and hope you're save the kitty cat charity is going strong!
Pixie - your latest floral creation is spectacular!
Sarah - thank you for all the updates...love knowing how the little one is doing and how much loot she's scoring before she's even here! Lucky girl!

xoxo
Miss Deb

The craziest place on the planet...

2009-07-18T20:36:00.006+08:00

Don't believe me? It gets trippier..

This park was built by one of the Aw brother's who created Tiger Balm. The park was dedicated to the memory of his family, friends and the various statues depict ancient legends and stories with strong moral values like loyalty and especially dealing with tempation...What I find insane though is how Chinese legends personify animals and make them do seriously weird stuff...like the pig in his knickers? Or the tea-turtle or crab-lady...Bizzaro!

Despite the strange-ness though, did you like the photos? I've had time to play with my camera and really hope I'm slowly getting better at lighting, composition and such...

Better run, only a few more days in Singapore!
Big hugs...

xoxo
Miss Deb

Clarke Quay, Bugis Street & Fort Canning...

2009-07-13T18:22:00.012+08:00

Mushi mushi lil critters...

I hope you're not getting bored of these post yet...After all, exploring is meant to be my main duty at the moment...let me know if you do tire of these though then I'll put my thinking cap on and fabricate a parallel universe...it could be fun..tee hee hee

So last Wednesday was ladies night...girls got in for free and got 5 free drinks, guys got in for S$15 before 11pm and got 2 free drinks so off Dean and I were to Zirca - said to be one of the top party spots. Yeeyah, all dressed up with somewhere to go!
I managed to score this strapless number for S$40!

I think it would normally be quite different but that night they had an MJ special...yes he was a legend and yes he will be missed but I think it's only humanly possible to hear Billy Jean so many times...we heard it live by that night's cover band, danced to by a group of MJ impersonators, sang and played acoustic styles and then the music video was played on the big screen! We decided what we needed was a few drinks but those sneaky buggers didn't make it easy for girls to get the 5 free drinks - I had to join the massive queue of ladies after 11 and before 12 AND I could only redeem one drink at a time...I was very tempted to take my first drink and rejoin the queue...I didn't of course...instead Dean and I went for a wander and came across this...

Very cool I thought...

We then followed the sound of some thumping tunes and came across Rebel...now that was fun. Had a good boogie then went to explore the rest of Clarke Quay - it's sorta like a village by the river with restaurants, cafes, bars...you name it! The cover charge we paid meant that we could get into Rebel and Lunar for free...Lunar was a Asian Fusion Bar. Yeah I didn't really understand what that meant until I stepped inside. There was a live band singing Chinese songs but the decor was absolutely brilliant...they had a massive red Chairman Mao figure at the front door then heaps of Asian Betty Boop stuff...the floors were transparent fibreglass displaying coloured lighting and pretty stones, paintings adorned the ceiling - like I mean literally, it was like looking UP into an art gallery! I couldn't get a shot of all of that so I hope these ones will do...:)

All in all, a super fun night..I highly recommend Clarke Quay, we're planning on going for dinner there sometime before we leave!

Days later we decided to head to Bugis - The Largest Street Shopping in Singapore! Don't believe me?

Yeeyah, baby...it's busy but the bargains are definitely worth it! I bought some cute-sie ballet flats and a pair of 3/4 length jeans..You'll see me sporting both items in the photos below...

At the end of a long hard shop, Dean got a reward for being the best boyfriend ever - some would've not made it through such ardous shopping missions! He got Burger King...

Anyhoo...we were getting a little tired of shopping malls (I never thought I'd see the day that I would say that) so a day later we planned a trip to Fort Canning. First stop, Istana Park where we pigged out on our BLATs!

Actually we only stopped there because we thought Fort Canning was opposite it but when we were stopped by the guards who told us that that wasn't Fort Canning but the President's house. No wonder they looked at us like we were nuts when we said, so we can't have lunch in there? Oopsie!

So after a bit of food we decided to try and find Fort Canning. We underestimated how far it was and how hilly and ended up walking 4km...it was worth the trek though!

So beautifully green...crazy how it's smack bang in the middle of the city too!

Lady Gaga's playing here on the 12th of August!

Anyhoo, tummy's a-rumbling so I'd better get some dinner in me!

Giggles and winks,
Miss Deb

Orchard, Vivo and Far East

2009-07-10T16:12:00.012+08:00

So my little chickadees, how's it?

Thought I'd try and be a wee bit more disciplined with the blog posts..I have been terribly slack I know!

So as you know I've been laxing in Singapore for a few weeks now..the lovely boychum finally got his behind here so we've gotten to explore heaps!

We are currently staying at my bro's service apartment that is a 5-8 min walk from Orchard Road...shopping central of Singapore! Poor Dean! There's probably a shopping mall for every 2 steps you take...it's nuts!

There's heaps of construction going on Orchard Road too...they really utilize every square inch!

This is the Paragon...fancy pants shopping mall with an awesome food court in the basement...

This is Ion...extremely cool building at night as all those panels light up...

It's even fancier than Paragon with brands like Louis Vuitton, Guess and CK...the official opening's on the 21st...we just might have to see what the fuss is all about tee hee hee!

My favourite mall on Orchard has to be the Far East Plaza...not to be confused with the Far East Shopping Centre...hehehe...This place is affordable and has extremely cool vintage and indie boutiques! I'd say there are at least 100 shops in this one building and it was absolute bliss...so much so that I didn't take many photos as I was too pre-occupied...

We had lunch at a Korean Restaurant with my bro and his wife...:)
I had the stir-fried pork Bento box and it was YUM as!

A few days later Dean and I decided to catch the MRT to Vivo City...it's a little further out of town but the weather forecast predicted thunderstorms so that was the best indoor activity we could think of...

Super stoked about my Chicken and Barbecue Pork Rice..

Mmmmmm...nom nom nom...

Then off for a wander around this super-mall..

It had it's own fountain...not bad...

It had it's own playground...

But then it started hosing down so we jumped back on the MRT and headed home...

Pretty boy and sunset..tee hee hee

Off to the pool for a swim now...leave me a message won't ya...hope alls well with you!

xoxo
Miss Deb

Singapore, Family and Peanuts!

2009-07-06T12:51:00.014+08:00

Hi dee ho little bunnies!

Yes as the title suggests we are now and have been in Singapore!

It took us ladies a wee while...hard long bus rides and such..hehehe..(my sis is posing with my brand spanking new super sampler...yay!)

But it was all worth it as we managed to get the whole family together! I'd not been back to Asia since my sister's wedding 3 years ago and that was the last time all 3 siblings were present too! It was epic...family's are awesome...I love mine!

Cheers! Here here...

So we had a family photoshoot the next day...where Mr Pro Photographer himself a.k.a. the big brother got to show off his skills...

Go the floral shirt, don't cha think?

Had heaps of fun and as usual the us kids had a blast just getting to hang out...

We were just about wetting ourselves here because we were trying to link arms and do the can-can but we just couldn't tell our left legs from right legs, well my brother couldn't fulfill simple instructions and I couldn't stop giggling so we kept bumping into each other...

That night we went to the premiere of Transformers 2.
The autobots were obviously trying to get in touch with us...

They'd left us a secret trail to follow hehehe...

Check out this old school movie poster at the cinema...I think it's perfectly rad...darn digital printing ruined all the fun!

A few days later we headed off to the famous Raffles Court for a look-see and a drinkie...Mmmm I got to try the Singapore Sling...way too easy to drink and seriously deadly...

It just oozes Colonialism doesn't it?

Where we had our drink used to be the old hang out for the British...each table had a big pot of peanuts...really yummy peanuts actually...

But the crazy thing is that you're meant to chuck the peanuts shells on the ground!! I ended up with a pile on the table because I just couldn't bring myself to do it but apparently they were trying to preserve what people used to do in the old days...crazy huh? I felt a little dirty because everywhere you walked your feet crunched into peanut shells....

Aside from the crazy peanut shell littering habits they were trying to uphold, I did like how they had maintained a lot of the old fixtures of the building...like this beautiful spiral stairway..

Well, I guess that'll be all for today puppies...

Here, take a moment and have a peanut...you deserve it for reading this far tee hee hee!

Hope life's treating you well...

Lots of love
Miss Deb

Eating and Fish Spas in KL

2009-07-02T14:52:00.013+08:00

Hello lovelies!

After Gareth headed back to NZ I headed to KL to meet up with my mum and sister for a bit of a shop...

We stayed at the Heritage Station Hotel which actually used to be...you guessed it...an old train station! The lighting wasn't the best so unfortunately I only have one interesting shot of the place which I can't even remember which way is up...hahah! I'll share anyway...

Just behind that building was the current train station where we waited patiently for our train to take us to Midvalley Shopping Mall - yeeyah!

Funky mosque tower...

I think train tracks are pretty cool...

It's here...off we go...

First stop...food court...Mmmmm...

Each plate of food would've been RM4 which is a little less than NZ$2...I kid you not...

Anyway, we went for a wander and came across what is meant to be quite a common thing in Asia...essentially it's a foot spa with a twist..a fishy twist..

Can't quite tell what that is? Here...

They have these aquarium's with these fishies that eat dead skin off your feet...the fishies don't have teeth so it's more like a ticklish sucking motion but alas I wasn't brave enough to give it a go...what's next? Having a bathtubful of suckerfish so you don't have to have to bathe yourself? Tee hee hee

I did come across less weird and way cooler things...Check out this little food stall...they re-use can's to make this awesome light fixture:

As if that wasn't enough, I was blown away by their ceiling...

It's made out of old doors!

Anyhoo, that's all for now folks...heaps more exploring to do so stay tuned!
Hope alls well with you...

xoxo
Miss Deb - who's busy posing with yummy roasted meats...

Thinking of you..

2009-06-29T14:48:00.002+08:00

Hey everybody,
Just wanted to pop up a quick post to say hello and to apologise for the lack of posts. I've had a bit of a mental block lately...maybe too many things going on so I don't even know where to start. I'm currently in Singapore...awaiting the arrival of the boychum which I'm super psyched about.

I'm still reading all my fave blogs and thank the god of internet at least 3 times a day because I'm sure I would've lost my sanity a while ago had it not been for you...

Big hugs

xoxo
Miss Deb

Sweating like a pig...oink oink, a happy one of course!

2009-06-09T10:03:00.003+08:00

Hello everybody...
Finally I get a decent enough connection to tell y'all that I arrived in one piece!

I got in about a week ago but boy does it feel like I'd never left. Got greeted at the airport by a very excited mother, my dad, my sister and the sweltering heat! Don't get me wrong, it's nice to not be cold but I find myself sweating out of places I didn't even know had sweat glands! Hahaha...

Aside from my perspiration stories, all is good in the world. Mum's cooking is the bomb and I managed to catch up with my bestie Doris last night! Linzhi, we missed you!!! We basically parked our behinds down in a cafe and didn't leave for ages...it always feels like we'd never been apart at all. It's a bummer that both my girls are so far away but very reassuring that they always have my back no matter what and where they are.

It was quite weird walking into our family home the first day though...everything felt little...After being away for so long and being the lilliputian in New Zealand where everything from shelves to clothes lines are always so much taller than me it was interesting to feel bigger/taller. Maybe it was a bit of a mental thing too, I'd never really been back to live after leaving in 2004 so I think there was quite a shift in me as a person since then. I'm still getting my head around everything but I'll keep you posted when my realizations hit. :)

Aside from that, we had a family gathering (rellies from dad's side) on Saturday that was complete with lots of yummy food and games. We've been to a traditional Malay wedding reception and gone for lots of drives to see what's been done to Miri since I was last back. Had actually some really nice photos of this new restaurant's that overlooks the sea and has a deck that stretches out into the water's edge. I was especially impressed by the walls and walls of intricate Indonesian carvings.

I also got to open a bunch of presents today from my sister-in-law Tracey, and my bro as well I'm sure...they sent me a massive pile of...you guessed it, only the best thing ever...like teaching me to fish rather than giving me a fish...drum roll please.....SOCKS!! So I guess the obsession continues, regardless of where I am in the world. Hahaha!

YAY! My bestie Gareth gets in this Thursday so at the mo I'm busy getting lots of travel info together so he can simply point to what he'd like to do while he's visiting. A whole week of Gareth madness, I'm stoked!

Have also made plans to meet up with Dean in Singapore end of this month which I am seriously looking forward to.

Gah...don't think I'll be able to post photos up this time 'cos I can't seem to find a USB slot for my passport drive on the computer at this internet cafe...Boo...

Anyhoo my lovelies...know that I miss NZ and all it's awesome habitants! I really miss my life in Auckland...but i gotta love this adventure I'm embarking on!

Big hugs!

xoxox
Miss Deb

4 days to go!

2009-05-27T11:19:00.003+08:00

Gah...I thought this photo would express my current state:
- I'm sitting here on my lappie, freaking out a little, rushing a little, pretty darn nervous...Despite all that emotion, I'm still sitting there clicking away at the keys instead of packing :)...I've neglected my blog for a while so hence the cobwebs..Then I'm all dressed up and excited too.Hahaha...well it sorta made sense in my head! The photo was taken last Halloween (see the fake gash on my neck?)...and NO my eyelashes aren't normally that thick unfortnately!

So yeah...4 days to go...I'm going to start packing tonight...
Guess who's getting ridden away this evening? My beautiful Vino! Yes, I managed to get it sold and he's going to his new home tonight! Sniff sniff...I gave him a good clean so he's shiny-ly waiting for his new owner.

Anyhoo, better shoot...will post again soon!

xoxo
Miss Deb

Maru and Giveaway Results!

2009-05-22T11:13:00.004+08:00

Hello lovelies...
So I used the random number generator...drum roll please...

Three cheers for you Number 1 commenter!
Goes to prove that the early bird gets the worm! Alas...because I didn't actually feel selecting a number from 1-3 was truly random, I've decided to divide the loot up so all 3 people can enjoy them! So lovely ladies, send me an email letting me know whats your poison (fabric, sewing patterns, paper craft etc), address details and I'll hook you up!!

Oh and I've still got a tummy ache from laughing too hard at this.. Trust me...it's very short but very good..

You are loved, have a great weekend!
Miss Deb

Less than 2 weeks to go!

2009-05-18T15:35:00.003+08:00

Hello lovelies!
It's all happening...But first things first...I have to apologise for not updating for so long. It's been mayhem.

I moved out of my flat last Saturday and into my sister's...and I have been pawning off my stuff like there's no tomorrow!
Everytime I think I've finally boiled everything down to the basics I attempt to fit it into my pack and realize I still have a lot of work to do.
So if you thought I had some cool stuff up for grabs at the garage sale (thank you to everybody who came along by the way), the stuff I've got on Trademe at the moment is even better - if the link doesn't work, try searching for my seller name debzdomain. These are items I'd really like to take with me or store but I simply can't. I have to keep telling myself that I'm unsure as to when I'll be back so whatever it is I keep I might've outgrown or lost interest in by the time I get back. So REALLY the wise choice is to give someone else a chance to enjoy it.

Now one last thing before I end this post...I have a little giveaway in mind. I have been putting aside a bunch of crafty items. I have a box of fabric and a box of bits and pieces such as patterns, threads, stationery etc. I didn't want to sell any of it so guess what? If you comment on this post, I will draw a random number on Friday and its yours! Yay!

Take care everybody and I'll speak to you again soon...

xoxo
Miss Deb

Lest we forget...

2009-04-25T03:06:00.003+08:00

I took that just moments ago at the dawn service on the square in Palmerston North. I've always made it a point to go eventhough I don't recall anybody in my family history being in the army. Somehow the idea and reason for it all just resonates with something in me.

I've been doing the rounds lately before I head off to Asia and I'm currently down in Palmy til Sunday...I've been catching up with so many people and not really feeling like I was saying goodbye to them....like I was going to be back fairly soon etc. But this morning..at the dawn service I got emotional. It finally sank in that I was leaving my home.
Maybe because I felt like I could slightly understand what it must've been like and what it must still be like when our troops set off to a foreign land leaving all that they know and knowing that they might not return alive. No, I haven't the faintest clue how hard that must be for them and their families but I do know how hard it's been for me and my life is in no way, shape or form in danger at any point.

I have so much respect for their courage and devotion.
As I watched the army helicopter fly above us at the stroke of 6am, I thought of all the people stuck in war torn countries who hear those sounds and see those choppers all the time. Would they be afraid or comforted? Would they brace themselves for the sound of an explosion to follow?
How lucky are we to not know the answers to those questions.
So this morning, I said a very special thank you to all those who have fallen while protecting their country or been sent to defend people just like us in less fortunate countries... lest we forget the sacrifice they and their families have made.

xoxo
Miss Deb

Clear your calendars baby!

2009-04-15T04:39:00.007+08:00

So I'm finishing up the nitty gritty stuff but wanted to tell you WAY in advance so you can make it...I'm having a farewell / garage sale on Saturday the 2nd of May 2009 (probably from 10am til 3pm).

I'm leaving on the 31st so am hoping and praying that I'll get to see you before I go!

If nothing else you should come based on the fact that I'm selling heaps of my craftie stuff for a song (think fabric, tools of the trade, books) because it is simply impossible to fit it in my 60l pack, you will most certainly score some seriously awesome stuff!

More details to come but you heard it here first bunnies...2nd of May is the big day!

If you'd like an invite in the post simply pop me an email...if not you can download either one and start spreading the word like wildfire...I'll give you a special discount if you do..X

xx
Miss Deb

Easter time update...

2009-04-08T07:47:00.006+08:00

Hello gorgeous...
How are you? I'm very well...extra excited 'cos the long Easter weekend is just around the corner! We've got a wee plan to head up to Goat Island on Friday then Matakana Farmer's Markets on Saturday morning and a bunch of op-shops and crafty shops on the way back to Auckland. We were thinking of heading to Waiheke on Sunday but the weather's not looking too good...fingers crossed the metservice get it wrong eh?!

Anyhoo, it seems like it's been super quiet on the blog front with everyone..reckon everyone's just busy. And I do find sometimes I get a little de-motivated when there aren't new posts to read so here's hoping you'll read mine and start blogging hard out! X

So last Kraftbomb was SUPERB! Sold quite a few of my sock babies and launched this one of a kind toe-sock bad boy. I wanted to see how people would react to him and I'm happy to say that they loved him...will aim to make more before the next Kraftbomb!
What do you think?

Also, it was my absolute pleasure to do a wee photoshoot for Dean's sister-in-law and nephews last Saturday and I wanted to share some of my favourite shots!
Candid one of little Callum being an absolute cutie!

And I absolutely loved how these two shots encapsulated the beautiful relationship mothers have with their babies...all together now...awww....

Anyhoo lovelies, gotta gap it...have a great Easter and I hope the Easter bunny brings you truck loads of yummy treats!

xoxo
Miss Deb

Your op-shop mission, should you choose to accept it...

2009-04-03T10:08:00.005+08:00

So I thought I'd surprise you with a little something I've been working on. I've mapped out the location of almost every op-shop that I know of in Auckland! I know I'm not the only one that's super excited and ready to hit them all in an organized logical manner...tee hee hee! Junk food and loud music is a must for anyone embarking on this treacherous mission! X If in doubt, I will sacrifice my weekend and come with you...we'll conquer it together. :)

View Larger Map

Enjoy lovelies and feel free to let me know of other ones and I'll add it on!

xoxo
Miss Deb

Bargains galore...

2009-04-01T09:26:00.002+08:00

Hello my precious little critters!

Yes yes, I owe you a fat and juicy post however I've only got a spare second today.

Just wanted you to be the first to know about my wee virtual garage sale on Trademe!

Click on the garage sale sign to grab a bargain! I'll be listing more stuff everyday til mid May!
Am thinking of having a non-virtual garage sale / going away par-tay but not sure how many of you would be keen. Holla at your girl if you are!

xoxox
Miss Deb

Pout...

2009-03-26T09:22:00.004+08:00

Good day my little amores...
How goes the day?
I've finally caught the nasty sniffly bug that's been around recently, boo hoos but I am currently sitting in the sun typing away so I can't complain too much. This will have to be a wee post though...Just wanted to say that Kraftbomb's on Sunday woot woot from 11-2pm at the Grey Lynn Community Centre whereby Sock Monkey HQ will be present with bells on! It will however most probably be my second to last one..I might have some deals on as I doubt I'll be able to fit all my monkey babies in my pack although I'm sure they'd love to travel around with me! Tee hee hee...

Anyhoo, hi ho hi ho..its back to work I go..

I'll see you cute critters on Sunday!

xoxo
Miss Deb

P/s I took the photo while having dinner at Tanuki's Cave last night...just thought it was pretty and it makes me think of that song.."you spin my head right round right round..." X :)

One woman's trash is another one's treasure

2009-03-22T10:48:00.002+08:00

Hello sweetheart!

This is the weekend of inorganic rubbish collection in central Auckland. If I wasn't here to witness it I'd think the term would just cover things like old tires or broken appliances but on the contrary some people chuck out some seriously cool stuff because they can't be bothered selling it on trademe or donating it to an op-shop...So when I was on my way to meet my colleague Tory for a spot of Teza sampling at the Kohi Yacht Club this morning I spotted a red vintage suitcase outside a house on the junction of Ascot Ave, there was a car driving up the bum of my scooter so I couldn't stop. I did however vow to ride round after our sampling gig to see if it was still there and guess what...it was! It is so true that if something's meant to be yours it'll wait for you...the cool thing is, because I'm leaving in a few month this red suitcase isn't coming to leave with me...It's a gift for the gorgeous Tory bunny! She's awfully crafty too and the loveliest person to hang out with. Have a look at her blog for a spot of good old crafty goodness from your own Aunty Tory!

The things I do for the awesome people in my life eh?! You get the funniest looks from people when you have items in odd shapes or sizes precariously perched or attached to your scooter :P

Upon closer inspection I found that one of the metal snaps on the suitcase is broken...somewhat fixable I thought and I can always put it back out with the rest of the inorganic trash if it isn't but when I opened the suitcase and saw the inside...I knew it was a keeper!

Hope you've had a epic weekend my darlings!
xoxo
Miss Deb

To foreign lands we shall go...

2009-03-20T09:18:00.005+08:00

Hello there sugar...how you going? Yay for Friday huh? This has definately been one of my more challenging weeks...

I have some news to share...

Well, after an uphill battle since last December with Immigration to get my residency I have finally decided to head back to Malaysia and from there fulfill one of my ultimate dreams - to travel South East Asia properly...
Unfortunately according to immigration, after taking my $400 - I don't 'qualify' so my current work permit won't be renewed which means my time in this beautiful country is up....for now. I know that New Zealand is my final destination ultimately so I'll be back sooner or later...:)

But enough with the boring depressing bits of the story...and on to the exciting unknown! I booked my ticket yesterday and spent all of last night lying awake in my room in what seemed like almost an out of body experience. I was absolute exhausted but sleep wouldn't come AND I couldn't motivate myself to get out of bed either...I tried to watch a movie but realize I'd left my laptop charger at work so minutes into it my Macbook when to sleep...same went for my phone charger so I couldn't text an SOS to a fellow insomniac...it was like divine intervention telling me to just BE. To exist and feel the weight of my decision. I was thinking about all the gear I'll have to sell and what to leave til the latest possible moment, what if I couldn't sell it before I left, what to take with me, what was too precious to take or leave etc. It was like my mind was having its own thought relay race - one thought tagging the other and all trying to reach the finish line to get my attention. But I have to say once I finally crashed out to the sounds of birds chirping outside my window it was a deep satisfying dreamless sleep.
I had to feel the sadness, frustration, vulnerability to be come strong again and get excited.

I'm ready now...I could sense this major change looming for me so now that the storm has been and gone, I'm slowly piecing together my plan of action. I'm headed to my hometown first, there's no way my parents would let me go anywhere else before seeing them :) While I'm there, my best friend Doris will be in town for a few weeks so lots of shopping and catching up to be had...then a few weeks later a trip to Vietnam to see my best friend Gareth while he's there for a week....then maybe back to Malaysia for a bit before meeting Dean in Thailand or picking him up at the airport in Malaysia! It's going to be utter mayhem...it's going to be AWESOME! I promise you'll get updates here though so it'll be like you're right there with me...trust me, I'm going to miss all of you...there's no substitute for the Kraftbomb and blogger sisterhood but maybe its up to me to start the craft-revolution there! We could start an exchange program where crafters from all over the world can get together for a stitch and bitch to soothe the soul hahaha, good excuse for you to come visit me! We all know inspiration comes in the form of chilling out with a Mai Tai in hand on a hot sunny beach after a tough day of shopping X I'm hoping to source tools / materials for less too so let me know what you'd like me to look out for for you okay?!

Anyhoo, puppies, I'm off to grab an iced cold Teza from the staff fridge and do some paperwork before the weekend kicks in.

Take care and speak soon!

xoxo
Miss Deb

Update: I just had an idea...and I've promised to jot them down or share them so here goes...

So you know how I've started keeping a visual diary with photos, drawings, scribbles, ideas etc? Its now become more than just a notebook or diary...looking at the pages makes me feel better when the days get me down or inspire or motivate me to indulge my creative side and sometimes just taking time out for myself to write in it helps centre me...so i wondered if you'd honour my wee book by leaving your mark on a page for me? It sounds so cheesy, like leaving an autograph for friends in high school but this seems different...I thought I'd cut out pieces of paper to fit my notebook and you get to draw, decorate, cut and paste pictures and photos or write something on it for me to add to my visual diary...I take it wherever I go so it would be like taking you with me! I want to remember all the good times and gorgeous people that I've had the privilege of crossing paths with! X

What do you reckon, sweetpea? Keen bean?

On a mission...

2009-03-12T05:42:00.002+08:00

Hello my darlings...how you doing?

Yeah, I'm doing well...as you've noticed I'm on a mission...
In summary my aim is to stop all forms of procastination!

I want to get my stuff sorted for Kraftbomb way in advance as opposed to the usual frantic mad rush to the finish line the night before...

I want to start journalling/writing properly which after much thought I've realized the only thing that's holding me back is the inability to decide what sort of notebook would suit me best. (I think I've cracked it now but of course it's the most labour intensive option that is the most appealing hah!)

I want to be saving lots and lots of moolah. There's a wee chance that I might be heading back to Malaysia for a few months so it would be silly to not travel South East Asia properly when I'm there. A little dosh would help fuel my craft addiction when I'm trawling textile markets in Vietnam and Cambodia, don't cha think?! And yes, wishlists are welcome X

Why am I writing all this here you ask? It's a little something we learnt at Discovery camp called...commitment. The thing about commitment is that once you involve someone else in the equation (in this case that is you) you have made it terribly difficult/annoying/inexcusable to back out of things. Making a commitment to yourself is just not the same as we are all guilty of being just a little more lenient with ourselves because we know the 'situation' haha...
I am a true believer that anyone who makes a promise has to keep it and if you don't think you can fulfill something then don't promise, right?! :P Living your word is another thing we were taught at camp...funny how we get so used to lying and making excuses so we don't look bad but really it would all be less complicated if we said what we meant and did as we said.

So anyhoo...now that I have said those things aloud (so to speak in blog-land) you get to call me on it if I don't do as I say...you get to ask as often as you like whether I've made any headway on saving or how many monkeys have I gotten thus far for k-bomb. As annoying as that sounds it is actually only annoying if I haven't done as I've said...if I have, I'd only be too happy to tell you!

Have yourself an awesome Thursday, precious!

xoxo
Miss Deb

So spoilt!

2009-03-09T11:31:00.005+08:00

Yet another birthday parcel arrived recently!

This time from my best friend Linzhi all the way from the United Kingdom!

Linzhi, Doris and I have known each other since we were 12 or 13! Hence why she has embarassing photos like the one below to use against me as and when she pleases.

Tee hee hee, thank you my dear Linny!! I love it all!!

xoxo
Miss Deb

P/s Promise a real update real soon!

Day's at the beach...

2009-02-25T22:43:00.000+08:00

Those are the best kinds of days if you ask me...

Just wanted to share a slice of paradise with you. I find photos like this keep me sane when all I can think about is work!

And of course, I'd like to crack a smile out of you so here's a photo Dean took when I wasn't looking, sneaky bugger...who says girls can't climb trees?

xoxo
Miss Deb

The little things...

2009-02-25T10:05:00.004+08:00

Hello sweetpea...how are you? Having a good day I hope..

I've had a bit of a salmon day at work today so instead of giving in to the negative chatter that plagues me on such days I am adamant to take control and surround myself with love! So...
Today's post is about some things I am grateful for... As we all know, once you start its often hard to stop!

I am thankful for my camera...
And of course, thankful for the technology that comes with it because I can show you my favourite shot from last weekend:

Can you spot the little guy?

til next time lovelies...

xoxo
Miss Deb

Northward...

2009-02-22T10:31:00.005+08:00

Dean and I decided to take a few days off. We booked a lovely motel in Orewa complete with lounge and spa bath. We had a fabulous time! The weather wasn't the best but I did manage to take some photos before it started raining. We had ice creams on the beach and walked around town where I found the most adorable op shop! I managed to score two gorgeous aprons and a vintage seamstress needle tin.

We got back yesterday in time for a farewell lunch for Dean's uncle and auntie.

I hope you've had a wonderful weekend thus far!
xoxo
Miss Deb

Love is in the air...

2009-02-13T09:56:00.004+08:00

In the whisper of the trees
Love is in the air
In the thunder of the sea

And I don't know if I'm just dreaming
Don't know if I feel sane
But it's something that I must believe in
And it's there when you call out my name

(Sing it with me...)
Love is in the air
Love is in the air
Oh oh oh
Oh oh oh

(Disintegrates into a fit of giggles...)

Love is definately in the air...and here i thought we were in a recession? Check out the number of bouquets my local florist had...I'm sure they had more in the shop but here's what was spilling out onto the sidewalk...

So why can't everyday be a celebration of love?
Happy Valentine's for tommorrow, my lovelies!

I will end this post in song...

"Love is in the air...Oh oh oh...Love is in the air......Oh oh oh..."

xoxo
Miss Deb

FaerySarah Rocks!

2009-02-09T17:07:00.003+08:00

This is a very late thank you post to the lovely FaerySarah of Bobby Robin!

Look what she made me:
My very own tile!!

I la la la LOVE it honey! Thank you so much!

She's such a super talented and generous lady, don't cha think? I can't think of a better partner in crime! Hugs!

xoxo
Miss Deb

Birthday Parcel from Sweden!

2009-02-06T05:48:00.003+08:00

So my best friend Gareth decided to do a semester in Sweden this year...he set off on his trip a little bit after Christmas. Last I heard he bought a bicycle that had tyres suitable for riding in the snow. How crazy would you have to be to ride around on a bicycle in snowy terrain - Gareth crazy that's what! Photos of him devouring the box of Dunkin' Donuts would've been more proof of his insanity but I didn't want to scare the children hehehe...I'm KIDDING!

Anyhoo, this arrived in the post yesterday. Perfect right down to the packaging - I heart old school brown envelopes like this one! I got some Swedish chocolates that had melted because our postbox is in the sun but not to worry, they have been labeled 'eat and die' to deter hungry flatties and are returning to their solid form in the fridge as i type this. He also got me some gorgeous knee high socks from Iceland and my fave thing - Gareth made a CD, like i mean made as in recorded one. He played music and sang...i kid you not, this CD is jam-packed with the loveliest guitar sounds and for as long as I've known this boy, I really didn't realize he could sing like that! I'm honoured to have my own copy...wish he'd autographed it though, I'm sure it would've made me some good money when he got famous!

Grr, I hope you're having fun over in Upssala G, NZ isn't the same without ya! Take care!

xoxo
Miss Deb

Domestic Goddess...

2009-02-02T06:49:00.001+08:00

Aloha lovelies from sunny Auckland!

Don't ya just lalalala loooove summer?

I'm originally from Malaysia where it's summer all year round so i don't think it's too unreasonable of me to say i'd like it to just stay this way! Tee hee hee

Mmmm when i think summer in NZ i think, food...lots and lots of food...something just takes over and all i want to do is bake and cook!

I made vege patties for the barbeque the other day...

Kinda came up with my own recipe just like the first time i tried. I just didn't want it to fall apart like the last time. They were made from mashed pumpkin, sauteed eggplant in garlic, capsicum and spring onion. I finished it off with a quick dip in some egg and coated it in crushed cornflakes that had been seasons with pepper, salt and a little paprika.

So the test of time was whether it would hold its shape on the hot grill...

Houston, we have lift off!!
I was pretty happy with how they turned out but still trying to get over the fact that because there isn't any meat in it, it won't have that elastic consistency of a meat pattie, my vege pattie was crispy on the outside and mushy on the inside. Hmmm...any tips, tricks or suggestions?

Ooooh, last last Monday was Chinese New Year so i thought it only right that i paid homage to my Malaysian Chinese roots and cook up a storm (for those of you who don't know i'm half Indian and half Chinese, my parents eloped...but that is a story for another time hehehe). So i decided Chicken Laksa was to be made and hoovered down!

Mmmm...so simple and so yummy! All you've got to do is get your rice noodles (i like using the thinnest kind) soft, chicken steamed and shredded, prawns blanched and a good helping of beansprouts and place it all ready in a bowl. Meanwhile your Laksa gravy (i just use store bought laksa paste and coconut milk) should be boiling hot, your patrons hungrily waiting! Stirring is essential...

Finally spoon over large amounts of the soupy spicy Laksa gravy over the bowl of goodness and voila!

This post is making me hungry...when's lunch?

xoxo
Miss Deb

You're so sweet to me...

2009-01-30T16:07:00.000+08:00

I'd been a little blue lately...
Just a mixture of homesickness over the festive season, worrying about my residency application and a handful of other things so Dean surprised me yesterday with a little 'just because' present to cheer me up...

He said they are meant to be korus and they symbolize new beginnings.
They are there to remind me that every day is a new day and a chance for me start over, no more looking into the past or trying to predict the future..just begin...at this very moment..because that is the only moment you truly possess..

Oh my dear boy, you are so sweet to me...i heart you!

Kraftbomb 6

2009-01-28T09:47:00.013+08:00

Hello lovelies...
Big hugs for you if you stopped by last Sunday to say hey! And big hugs to you if you couldn't make it too 'cos we missed you! We especially missed the adorable Bee & Niella of Random Kits & Pieces, sweet Karen of Luxford St and of course Freddy and his awesome lemonade!
I have to admit that it was a tad slow that day as many people must've gone away for the long weekend. Good to know that people are taking it easy and enjoying the sunshine! It was wicked to finally have the chance to actually chill out and chat with the other sellers though! Normally we're all rushed off our feet and the 3 hours disappear in a blink of an eye! I was seated next to the lovely chickas and chico from The Oblong Craft Collective on my left:

Rachel had the most gorgeous handmade notebooks displayed...drool drool drool! And those fans were pretty and the perfect accessory for any lady!

On my right was sweet Heleen of Ruby in the Dust, (i heart her 'blogger' embroidered badge) and on her right was the adorable Saira of Paper Fish - who i'm adamant about adopting one of her loan sharks! Luigi in particular!

Look at how cute this picture is! And they were all shy and worried that it wouldn't turn out! :)

It was such a pleasure to hang out and chat about everything...comparing notes about the best places to buy supplies, recommending websites to each other and attempting to plan a crafty blogger tea party! Squeal...

Oh and of course, a quick snap shot of my stall set up:

I decided to make my table display yummy enough to eat...hehehe...complete with a wee specials menu! What you see: Bottom right - red and blue felt bead stud earrings, middle right - a plate of light and dark brown felt beads and top left - 3 plates of reversible headbands made from vintage and new materials perfect for keeping hair off ones face or for when the paparazzi come-a-calling...queue relevant photo...hahah

I get no peace even when i'm pigging out on french fries...sneaky things, they wait patiently in the glove comparment of your car and spring out when you least expect it...hahahaha

Anyhoo, if you missed out this time be sure to get your K-bomb fix next month! Last Sunday of Feb, 11am-2pm at the Grey Lynn Community Centre.

Kraftbomb 6 complete, Miss Deb over and out!

Ciao for now sweetness!
Miss Deb

Pre-Kraftbomb Chaos

2009-01-24T13:17:00.002+08:00

Why is it that although i know K-bomb is the last Sunday of the month i somehow always leave a whole bunch of stuff to the last minute! Gah...worst still i found out that both people who i normally call on separately when i need a ride to the Grey Lynn Community Centre have bailed, one's at a wedding and the other is going away with his girlfriend...am now left with the task of figuring out if it is indeed possible to catch a bus there while carrying my big purple box of goodies. Alternatively i can attach the box to my scooter but it may be quite the balancing act. Hahaha...

Oh well these things happen...

But, my dear little good samaritan :) if by chance you're heading past my place in Remuera en route to the bomb at around 9.45am, i'd forever be in your debt as well as shower you with baked good for the rest of your life if you gave me a ride? :P Tee hee hee...

When there's a will there's a way right? Not to worry...by hook or by crook i will be there tomorrow!

xoxo
Miss Deb

Go shorty, it's your birthday...we gonna party like it's your birthday...

2009-01-23T05:48:00.010+08:00

Well actually it is...blush...i'm 24 today!

I thought i'd start posting up bits of the festivities...

So, some of the fun began yesterday as my sister and her husband were going to be real busy today, think they are going away for the long weekend. My sis sprained her ankle on Wednesday so lucky for me she had to cancel a business trip which would've made her absent on this auspicious day. She was convinced that i put a spell on her...hahaha! So she instructed my bro-in-law yesterday to make my 'birthday lunch'. It consisted of (made from scratch) barbeque pork and stir-fried red cabbage on rice. Yum!

In Asian terms, it is very rare that a bro-in-law (Chinese word for it is Che-Fu, not like the famous guy..think his name could be Che like Che Guavara tee hee hee) would do anything for a younger sibling so it was very sweet that Joe went through all the trouble.

They also got me some pretty roses for my desk!

Then early this morning..i got a call from my friend Sin How all the way in Brunei wishing me! You were officially the first one my dear! Teeheehee!

As soon as i got off the phone i wanted to open my first pressie! This arrived a few days ago...

But it said this...Jo know's me too well...

It so cool that Jo and I still keep in touch...i met her when i was still studying in Palmy. She's like a second mum to me and one of the coolest people i know!
Ta da!

It is the cutest dustdarling wristband made from a vintage tie! Unfortunately there isn't a website i can link to so if you're the maker of these beautiful wrist accessories please get in touch! The card was spot on too...i am ALWAYS complaining that the weekend is too short...even had this huge discussion with my flatmate the other day saying that i wouldn't mind working 6-7 day weeks if i got 3-4 days for the weekend. :P Thank you Jo!! Big hugs for both you and Tom.

So i was already at work when all this was happening and was in the middle of reading my emails when i suddenly hear my sister and Joe bellowing Happy Birthday down the corridor to my office! Cute...Joe had a big bouquet of lillies and my sister had made me a card. Flowers were actually from mum and dad and the card was from my sister and Joe.

So cute, she even made pink blinds for the window!

Close-up of the door and mail-box:

They got me...

Yeeyah! That's only like the best magazine on the planet! And i was just saying to Dean the other day that i should really just subscribe seeing as i virtually camp outside the bookshop a day before i know it's coming out! Thank you guys...i love you both truckloads!

Anyhoo lovelies...I'll post this up first but check back later, i'm sure there are lots more festivities to be had!

xoxo
Birthday Girl Miss Deb

Look what i made...

2009-01-22T04:44:00.006+08:00

Blush....
What d'ya reckon?
Still a little rough round the edges but for a first try i'm pretty stoked. Bought the paper-pattern/instructionable from the lovely Jaqueline of mylittlesweet!

Wanna know the coolest thing about them shoes though?
They are reversible...

Also, i took a photo of these perfect strawberries i was munching on yesterday to share, yum-o!

See you at Kraftbomb my lovelies!

xoxo
Miss Deb

Bonjour Mon Ami!

2009-01-15T09:24:00.005+08:00

How is everybody doing? I hope all is well with you.

Sorry for being a bit slack with the posts, i know i'm usually a lot better with keeping in touch. I've recently discovered exercise so that (you should know by now that it's not my thing but going for walks in such lovely weather isn't as bad as i thought hehehe)....added to working late and the sun being out til 8pm everyday i haven't had the chance to sit on my behind! There's rays to be soaked, fun to be enjoyed and barbecues to be had!

Yes that's Andrew my flatmate in the background sitting on the deck making homemade burgers...i know that doesn't sound very hygenic but this photo proves otherwise...

Hasn't the weather been absolutely glorious! It's been so much fun riding around on my scooter! On a wet rainy day it is the worse mode of transport because droplets actually hurt when your going at lightning speeds but in the summer, i long for work to end so i can hop on and ride off. This is a wee picture of my Yamaha Vino...he's precious isn't he?

I made some vanilla custard peach tartlets for dessert at Dean's mums the other day and they turned out so good! Unfortunately i forgot to take a photo. I did however want to share the recipe because it was so easy!

Vanilla Custard Peach Tartlets
2 sheets short crust pastry cut to fit each muffin cup
(I just used a mug as like a cookie cutter to get a round shape)
3 tbsp custard powder
2 tbsp sugar
1 tsp vanilla
- Peaches & icing sugar to decorate

Small metal pot (for cooking up custard goodness)
Wooden spoon (to stir with :) tee hee hee)
Measuring jug (to measure as well as pour custard mixture into tartlets)
Muffin tray (to make tartlet base)
Baking paper cut to fit each muffin 'cup'
Lentil/Rice or Ceramic Weights

- Get a muffin tray and line make the tartlet base using store bought pastry (i've tried making my own pastry but its so labour intensive for something you can get so cheaply at the supermarket) cut into the right size. Don't worry if you tear the pastry by accident, just patch it up with more pastry. I like getting it as thin as possible because i'm not a big fan of pastry so squish it til you're satisfied with the thickness.

- Blind bake for 10 minutes with rice/lentils/ceramic baking weights holding down baking paper in each tartlet. Remove weights and paper before baking for an additional 10 minutes or until golden brown.

- Meanwhile...take 3 tablespoons of custard powder, 2 tablespoons of sugar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla essence and mix into 600ml of milk. (They say to first mix a small portion of the custard powder with a small amount of milk to form a paste, then and only then should you add the rest of the milk and stuff. I think it prevents lumping but i like straining custard before pouring it and letting it set anyway.

- Anyhoo, stir your custard constantly on the stove until it reaches boiling point, it should also start to thicken slightly. Take it off the heat and place in a bowl of cold water for 5 minutes to cool it down. Once that's done, you're ready to strain the custard (only if you can be bothered) and pour them into the tartlet cups that have now finished being blind baked.

- While it is setting, cut slices of canned or fresh peached to sit on top of the tartlet in a pretty leaf pattern before dusting with icing sugar. Then it's time to sample your handmade treats and sing yummy yummy yummy i got love in my tummy...:)

See if only at this point i could whip out a picture to entice you!
Don't worry though, i'll definately be making them again!

Oooh, before i go...am happy to announce that we'll be at Kraftbomb 6!! Woot woot...

xoxo Hope you're enjoying the sunshine!
Miss Deb

When you stop and look around, this life's pretty amazing...

2009-01-08T09:15:00.001+08:00

You know...i only moved to Aucks a year or so ago...it seems like such a long time now...
I'd been studying and working in good 'ol balmy Palmy for so long that it was quite a drastic change moving to the big smoke and definately a huge shock to the system. After hearing all the negative stuff people said about Auckland and its inhabitants i was pretty sure i'd hate it and hacked a plan of escape...i would befriend a nakedbus employee so that i could zip up and down the island cheaply each weekend. But alas things don't ever work out as one plans...a relationship of almost 3 years fell apart and i had to toughen up and take on the big bad city all on my own.

What happened was thoroughly unexpected...

As soon as i gave up all the preconceived ideas i fell in love with a place that was teeming with possibilities and buzzing with creative people. Auckland makes me feel like i'm standing on the edge of a cauldron that's bubbling with so much gusto and attitude..

Do you do that too? Make up your mind about something or someone only to find that you were totally and utterly wrong?
Despite the fact that it happens ever so often for me i still need frequent reminders that i don't give my abilities/instincts enough credit...

Just the other day...Dean and i went to Mount Maunganui for New Year's. The day before we were to drive back to Auckland he boldly suggested that we trek up the mount...his 'convincing' argument was that the view would be amazing because it was such a clear scorcher of a day. I almost instantly started feeling ill and began freaking out since so many people had told me that it was a hard trail..to top it off i figured i'm not fit, i wouldn't be able to do it and Dean would think i was a total loser. WHAT??? When i actually took a step back and looked at the big picture i realized that none of that internal dialoque was correct and more importantly it wasn't the slightest bit helpful. So i tried my hardest to re-program...you know, like how Thomas the tank engine said "i think i can i think i can...i know i can...i know i can..." And guess what...i made it to the top...and it wasn't anywhere near as hard as i thought..And of course, the view was breathtaking.

Why are we so stifled by fear? Fear is essentially in our heads...we're scared of failure, we're scared of what people think of us. I had a deep and meaningful with a good friend the other day and he really switched on a light bulb in my head. He said we judge ourselves so harshly...and a lot of the time we assume that others will do the same because we can only go by our own standards/experiences. Judging is negative...no matter how well we know somebody we still aren't them and cannot fully predict how they think or will react to something..comparing, judging and assuming are all recipes for disaster i reckon. :)

That is my new year's resolution...to refrain from those 3 nasties. I forgot how freeing it was...i remember after Discovery camp last year. I felt perfectly balanced, supported and at peace with everything...in that environment i knew i could and was totally being myself and the people around me fully loved me for it, i did the same for them. Being a team leader for Discovery was probably one of my favourite moments in my life thus far and probably a defining one for me too. To bear witness to the transformation the teenagers went through was such a precious gift. Watching them deal with their demons made me think of how crazy it is that we harp on the negative stuff/people we encounter but just shrug it off when our loved ones tell us how awesome we are. It's amazing to see people flourish when they feel supported...i know i did. When you know that the people around you will love you regardless of whether you win or lose, triumph or fail, you will give it your all fearlessly, you have nothing to lose! You let you hair down and be silly, you banish those self conscious inhibitions and simply exist as you are!

So i'm going to tell you this very moment that you are awesome...you're loving, caring and such a pleasure to have on this planet. Thank you for being you!

xoxo
Miss Deb

It's the New Year after all..

2009-01-05T06:26:00.019+08:00

(adapted from 'It's a small world after all"...you know the tune, sing it with me...)
"It's a new year after all, It's a new year after all, It's a new year after all...it's a new new year..." :)

Yes, the silly season has that affect on me...am back at work and trying my hardest to be all sane and responsible today though!

So how was your Christmas and New Years? Fabulous i hope! Mine was chocked with so much fun stuff that i don't even know where to begin..

So Christmas Eve was spent with the boy...we both had family stuff to do separately the next day so we thought it was a good idea to get our pressies out of the way...tee hee hee

Our loot...I made it a point to minimise packaging for all the gifts i was giving this year so that big box covered in the fancy Lush Times wrapping paper (reuse, reduce, recycle right?) is from me and the other 3 gifts were FOR me...

Dean ripping into his pressie...

I got him a fancy silvery grey patterned fedora from Marvel in Ponsonby...

And...because he's quite a Mario fan, this cool shirt from Noisebot...

Now...my turn...if you've been following my blog...you'll have a rough idea as to the reason behind my high level of excitement...see cheesy grin...

Because...i got a COOKIE PRESS!!!!

And yes, i've tried it...takes a bit of practice that's for sure! So ladies, who wants to borrow it for a week or 2? (Psst...Bee you get to be first in line :) )

Next pressie...I wasn't sure what to think...

Then i realize what it was! Yay, Singstar...i've wanted it for ages...we were still hoarse days later after playing it...

I hope you'll excuse the same pose...i don't move much when there's present opening to be had tee hee hee...

And finally...this wee box...

Dean got me this gorgeous greenstone necklace...I absolutely love it...(normally greenstone has to be 'blessed' by the person who gives it to you so Dean wished for happiness for all the days of my life...I wear it together with my love pendant nowadays so i've got love and happiness wherever i go, yay!)

Woot woot...next day i scootered over to my sisters...

We went to Christmas morning mass at St Michael's in Remuera...

Then home for present opening!

Stockings first...Santa must've dropped in when we were out!

Mmmm...real pressies...

I got Joe this wool sweater and a book of smoothie recipes by Innocent...

And here's my sister with her loot...she'd been wanting a y-front purse from Luxford St for like forever!

I also got her one of lilysmakebelieve's gorgeous sushi charm necklaces! (I stole the piccie from Olivia's FB page...)

Woah...i haven't even started on Christmas at Dean's mums place yet and this has turned into an essay! Might save it for another day...

Hugs hugs hugs
Miss Deb

Christmas Eve

2008-12-24T05:25:00.018+08:00

I still cannot believe Christmas is tomorrow...it almost feels like this year has flown by before me as i stood on the sidelines watching helplessly. Of course that hasn't been the case at all...in fact, it's because i've been 'participating' so much in life this year that i'm probably more disappointed that i don't have more time to do more fun stuff before it all comes to an end! I think living from one event to the next has that effect...like doing one Kraftbomb and then trying to get more done before the next one just makes the months disappear.

It's raining outside at the moment..the kind of misty rain that is enough to make your hair frizzy but not enough to give you the 'i just washed my hair and i look hot' look. But man does it look a lot like really light snow....hmmmm, pretty! This is the view from my work space...

So Kraftbomb 6 - the Christmas Special was yet another success story! Well done ladies! I had a fab time as usual but encountered a wee drama before i arrived...the night before i'd been working away like a good Christmas elf until 1.30am and the next morning i was up with the birds at 7am getting more done. So when 9 o'clock rolled round i was psyched that everything was sorted, stuff was all packed and i just needed to get my butt in the shower. My flatmate Seanie had offered to give me a ride to the Grey Lynn Community Centre so that base was covered too. (Now, i've only lived in Aucks for a year so my sense of direction is still improving...) To cut a long story short, Seanie took a wrong turn and we ended up in Henderson! (it's okay Seanie, these things happen and i definately don't hold it against you!) Gah! So when i finally arrived i had like 2 minutes to set up my stall. The wonderful ladies on either side of my stall were so helpful (thank you!), they must have seen the frazzled look on my face...both of you were an absolute godsend! I'm sorry i wasn't better company...normally a lot chattier and personable but being that late despite of being so super organized really rattled my cage. Alas, i conclude that everything happens for a reason...and whatever it was, i'm sure it was a significant step in the right direction in the grand scheme. So thanks to the wonderful Niella of Just a Lil Paper Goodness...i at least have one photo of me and my stall...thanks hunny!

Oooh, and of course i gotta show you the new additions to the sock monkey family...

These two bad boys are made from some seriously awesome socks i got from Colorado (the shop not the place), they are super soft and snuggly!

And yes, i have a thing for love hearts..:)

And lastly...baby nautical monkey...i'd been meaning to make a monkey out of baby socks for ages and i finally did! He was a hit...will have to make more for next time!

Ah yes, I also sold quite a few of my reversible headbands which was mint! It all started out with me making one for me and thought they would make nice Christmas pressies so i made a few more and then everything spun out of control and before i knew it there was a huge pile of gorgeous fabric begging me to use them and me sewing until wee hours of the morning with doorstopper and towels stuffed under my door hoping to muffle the noise and not wake my flatties. :) (will be tweaking the elastic bands for them for next time though, to accommodate more heads hehe, i only had mine and boy flatties around to test sizing out on!)

My organized chaos / workspace at home:

One more shot of my stall where you can see my clothesline (complete with mini pegs) of headbands...yipee!

That night, Dean and i were invited to go to The Do in the Zoo with his family. It was organized by Air New Zealand and heaps of people went. It was kinda cool to get to go to the zoo after hours but too bad that most of the animals were asleep. I took my camera with me...show and tell time!

This is Dean's nephew Callum..a.k.a. marshmallow man...

Then we have close up shot of Mr Hippo by Dean...(being tall has its perks in a crowd of people, i must say. It's a pretty cool picture so i got to give credit where it's due eh?!)

Look at this little meerkat posing for me! Cute-ness!

Well, i think that's all for today folks...bring on Christmas!

Have an awesome one, be safe and much love from all of us at Sock Monkey HQ,
Miss Deb

Headbands...

2008-12-20T19:51:00.003+08:00

This is a very late but very satisfied post...

These are some of the headbands (just pressed and now waiting to be sewn up) i'm making as a special treat for the Christmas K-bomb...Yay!

Now, for some much needed sleep..
xoxo
Miss Deb

I'm so excited...and i can't hide it...

2008-12-15T08:54:00.003+08:00

Come one come all..
xoxo
Miss Deb

Naughty or Nice?

2008-12-11T10:58:00.018+08:00

Inspired by the lovely lilysmakebelieve...i too, have made a wee list of things i'd like Santa to bring me this Christmas...:)

1. A Moleskine Notebook (i've had a love affair with stationery for like forever...)

2. A billfold wallet from treeswithknees

3. Some lovely bedroom slippers from Toukoushima

4. This robin egg blue, buttercream & navy brass filigree locket from MStevenson Designs

5. The Porter getaway bag from the extremely talented and super lovely Wendy of Moop.

Every bag ordered has a 2 week lead time because she sews them up from start to finish for you! It's quite cheeky of me to request yet another Moop bag as i've already got a Moop Market Bag which is surgically attached to my side anyway!

It's just so practical, you can extend the strap so it's a messenger bag or shorten it and it's a handbag. The pockets are perfect (no thrashing around trying to find stuff) and the material is soft but heavy so you know it'll withstand the test of time and washing.

6. I lost my iPod headphones the other day so...i'd like these adorable ear buds from Fred Flare please...

7. Sushi USB storage drive from Dynamism! Drool...

8. An awesome old-school style cookie press! There's a gorgeous one being sold on Trademe for just $26.99! I only recently discovered that these things existed from Heidi's blog My Paper Crane...her cookies look soOo good! Nom nom nom...(Photo changed, thanks for your tip Ginny! They are sold out online so am definately going to Milly's Kitchen tomorrow!)

9. My family! Mum and dad aren't coming over for Christmas this year, and my brother is stuck working in Russia...so it's just my sis and me this Christmas. So Santa, if possible could you give mum, dad, my bro and Tracey a ride on your sleigh over here?! Boy, do i miss having everybody together! The last time was in 2006 for my sister's wedding!

xoxo
Have a great weekend!
Much love,
Miss Deb

Hump day Wednesday!

2008-12-10T05:25:00.007+08:00

So who's happy we're already half way through the working week? Yes yes, i do love where i work but i love having the whole weekend free to sew like a mad woman and chillax in the sun!

I packed a picnic dinner last Sunday for Dean and me. :) Made sushi (chicken, red pepper, spring onion & cucumber) and bought some yummy chocolate milk. Drink of choice would've been a Teza but alas they're not available in supermarkets. Tee hee hee. Cornwall Park is gorgeous this time of the year! So excited that it's only the start of summer, truckload more days like this to enjoy! Yay!!

Ooh...guess what i'm getting today? Well i bought it off Trademe yesterday but my knight in shining armour has a day off today so he'll be picking it up...a 'dining'/sewing table! I've been sewing on my dressing table for ages now so it is going to be epic to have a table solely as a home and pedestal for my grand sewing machine. :D I'll have to post photos once it's settled in with the rest of the room fixtures but boy am i stoked! It's even extendable so i can have my sewing machine on the middle bit and use the 'wings' for pinning or cutting!

Had quite the little productive evening yesterday too...made a pumpkin and feta pizza for work lunch today (and made a spare one for the boys as i'm out to dinner tonight!)....AND decided it was finally time to dip into my monkey stash and put more up on Toggle, finally have a shop on Felt and of course Etsy! It's all a work in progress as i'm still figuring out how to make a 'banner' for my 'shop front' Gah! but the important part is done. This also means i will HAVE to sew more monkeys before the next K-bomb which is in less than 2 weeks! Yikes! Deadlines are thrilling though aren't they...:) You'll either see me pull my hair out or do my victory dance!

Anyhoo, i know i still owe you photos of my last K-bomb purchases as well as my loot from the last Swap Away...good things come to those who wait...X

Hugs!
Miss Deb

Swap-a-di-do-da-day!

2008-12-06T16:26:00.004+08:00

(sing it with me...)
"I'm the happiest girl...in the whole...USA.."

Yes, i am feeling a bit random...but i also did have a fantastic day! It's been such a fun-filled 24 hours...
I'll start from the very beginning..

I went to the Ministry of Sound dance party last night! It was at a warehouse on Rosebank Road in Avondale! It was pretty mean to have a club experience in such a spacious and different venue. Fun times! Of course photos from badly lit events like this never turn out that great but what the heck...heheh

Sean, Dean and Andrew...

Dean and me...

Me not using the self timer button...

Group shot!

So Andrew was actually catching a flight to the UK for a whole month this morning but i was too exhausted to go along with the boys to drop him off at the airport. Sorry drew-boy! Hope you had a good flight and that the stopover in Tokyo was wicked!

Woke up at about 10 am ready for the Swap-Away...was so super excited! Came home quickly to have a shower and chuck some clothes on, grab my swappables and out the door to Ponsonby! Got caught in traffic 'cos of the Ponsonby Market Day but luckily i got there in time to check-in and chill out with a Teza in hand while chatting to the girls. I also bumped into the lovely Miss Scissors, it was awesome to finally put a face to the blog and connect all the dots, you know what i mean! Yay you for getting into Craftwerk hun!
Anyhoo...I had so much fun and definately scored some primo items...thanks a bunch hunnies, you ladies did a fabulous job! So proud of you!
Will have to post up photos of my loot but am exhausted so will leave you with a cute-sy photo of me and the pretty Swap Away musketeers for now...heheh

Nighty night my precious...sweet dreams...
Until next time,
Miss Deb

November Kraftbomb yeeyah!

2008-12-02T16:02:00.009+08:00

Hello lovelies,
Alas, the long awaited post.
Kraftbomb was super duper awesome-ness! Had so much fun and because it was my second time i wasn't worrying over nothing and had...no, MADE time to go shopping and say hello to all the wicked crafters. I always feel so humbled and of course grateful being surrounded by so much talent.
Anyhoo, photos yesh?
A total of 8 adorable sock babies got adopted into loving homes..

The lovely Sarah from BobbyRobin adopted Dino..

Fred our cutiepie lemonade boy adopted this little guy...

and lastly...Andrew, my flatmate, is gifting this cheeky little monkey to a very special munchkin named Athena..

Hmmm...makes me so happy to know that someone out there's gonna love these little ones as much as i've loved making them. It's tough to give them up sometimes but so very rewarding when you see someone's face light up and hear them squeal..Ooooh sock monkeeeeesssss....hehehe Don't worry though, if you see something you like but its already been sold i love doing custom orders! I'm always shopping for new socks so give me an idea of a colour scheme you'd like and we can go from there!

Lastly, big shout out to my stall buddies on the day! Round of applause for the dynamic duo Snez & Reuben from Squidlimbs!

I la la la la LOVED Snez's amigurumi creations and will definately be saving up to get Reuben to work his magic on a pair of kicks for me. Check these out...

Cool huh?! Go to www.squidlimbs.com to get a custom order or just to stare and point in awe.

Well lovelies, i will leave you with these..oh yeah, finally a shot of me with my 60s inspired haircut :)

Now you see her...

Now you don't...

xoxo
Miss Deb

P/s Special post to come for gloating purposes...i haven't even started talking about my purchases on the day!! :) Let's just say i wear my lilysmakebelieve owl necklace with much pride! X You girls rock! Other items might only get a mention after Christmas though...can't let the cat outta the bag :P

I O U

2008-12-01T07:53:00.004+08:00

I know i know...i owe you an update about the awesome November Kraftbomb...it's coming don't worry!

In the mean time...i felt like sharing...'cos sharing is caring obviously!:)

xoxo
Miss Deb

I Heart ETSY!

2008-11-27T04:40:00.006+08:00

Mmm...when i was naughty a couple of weeks ago i went shopping on Etsy..

Look what arrived today...
EcoCuff - French Religious Charms on Black Tooled and Pierced Leather made by the lovely Greenbelts

This piece is truly one-of-a-kind. It's eco-friendly using recycled materials to make it unique. You won’t find a duplicate anywhere.

The specs are:
Color: Black leather band and silver accents.
Size: 8 3/4” long with two sets of adjustable snaps.

Unique Characteristics: The band of this cuff is 1 3/4” wide and made from a recycled full grain leather belt. The band is tooled and pierced with a lovely flower pattern. A friend of mine found a lot of these vintage metal Christian symbol charms in France and brought them home for me. They are all different with images of Jesus, various Saints, symbols, etc. They are all tied onto the band with doubled thick thread and reinforced on the underside with a circle of leather (so the knots don't irritate your skin.) The charms hang down on your wrist and make a slight chime sound when you're wearing it.

Swoon...

I heart Etsy...

I also heart the lovely Sarah from BobbyRobin who did a superb job on her November arts column on NZ Girl (click here to have a read) where she mentioned Kraftbomb, me and my creatures, the awesome lilysmakebelieve and the wickedly cool Cardboard Box! It was the first time i ever got a mention and it's definately made my year!! Thanks a bunch hunny!

Anyhoo, lovelies...
I'm off to chime around the office now..

xoxo
Miss Deb

Quickie!

2008-11-26T05:36:00.003+08:00

I've got the day off today yay!

So I'm heading into town with the boychum for a spot of op-shop therapy!!

Also on my list of things to do today:
1. Update my blog
2. Drop of a certain sock monkey to his new home with the lovely Frances
3. Stuff and sew more monkeys before Kraftbomb
4. Finish and print my Novermber Sock it to me! theme flyer
5. Send off a Christmas parcel to my mum and dad in Malaysia
6. Oooh, this ones good...start wrapping Christmas presents! (You see I'm one of those accumulators..I started shopping for Christmas 2008 Boxing Day last year hahah...freakish I know!)

Anyway better run...talk to you later...have a lovely day!
I'll leave you with a random photo of me and the boychum at my Halloween party this year...heheh He came as a pimp while i dressed up as a killer stepford wife complete with bloody tea towel and rolling pin!

xoxo
Miss Deb

Inspired by the 60's

2008-11-19T06:20:00.004+08:00

Hello you! Aren't you looking sharp today!

Guess what? I finally had a spare afternoon (well i took the afternoon off from my Teza duties hehe) to get a hair cut! Whoopee, i do love visiting the lovely Sanja at Bettjemans in Orakei as she always does a fantabulous job! This place rocks, service is always primo and you can get everything from hair spa treatments to funky cut and colours as well as up-dos for glam occassions. Anyhoo...yesterday, as per usual, Sanja got to do whatever she wanted with my hair. She always tells me that she loves cutting my hair 'cos i let her go crazy with it. She's super duper trendy and so i fully trust her creative judgement :)
Unfortunately i haven't had a chance to take any photos but i ended up with a very chic 60's inspired bob with a bit of a modern twist in the form of a thick jagged cut fringe...it's so Mod dah-ling! Hahaha...I love it! Still having lots of fun trying different clothes on and seeing what sort of make up goes best with it! Tee hee hee

So, it doesn't come as much of a surprise that today's post will attempt to showcase what i think encapsulates what i love most about 60's retro/vintage je nais se quoi...:)

Sigh...now all i want to do is finish work and go op-shopping!
Oooh, speaking of op-shopping...the Swap Away is drawing near, yeeha! I'm excited! Get in quick for the awesome clothes swap on Dec 6th, from 12.15-3.30pm at The Leys Institute Hall, 20 St Marys Rd, Ponsonby, Auckland!

I now leave you with an extremely important piece of advice...

Tee hee hee
xoxo
Miss Deb

Remind me to bring joy...

2008-11-18T08:42:00.005+08:00

Yes people...that is the Sock It To Me! theme for November's Kraftbomb - "Remind me to bring joy..."

Intrigued?

Good.

Watch this space...tee hee hee x

Anyhoo...

Better get back to work..just wanted to share this awesome site i stumbled on today where i grabbed my current desktop wallpaper...see? All credit to the great Decor8 blog for sharing!

How pretty is that! Go to: Kindred - Wallpapered Together.

Be good, puppies...
xoxo
Miss Deb

Immersed in Creativity...

2008-11-15T09:59:00.008+08:00

Hello lovelies, just had a quick second for a weekend post! :)

I wanted to share something seriously cool with ya!

As you know i work for the most awesome New Zealand all natural iced tea company - Teza...we recently supported an awesome sculpture exhibition that's held bi-annually at the Fort Takapuna Historic Reserve in Devonport (for non-Aucklanders that's on the north shore of Aucks :P). It's called NZ Sculpture OnShore
So..
Yesterday me and the boychum made in through rush hour traffic to have a wander around. Basically they set up sculptures by various New Zealand artists (over 100 of them) all over the reserve for the duration of 2 weeks. It costs $10 for an adult to get in and ALL proceeds go to Women's Refuge.

It was so well organized...there was a fabulous cafe on site that was gorgeously decked out with lanterns hanging from the ceiling. It really looked like someone was hosting a garden wedding reception (of course complete with grassy Teza fridge hehehe). Even the portaloos were classy, complete with handtowels! Hahah...kudos for such attention to details i say!

Alright alright, i'll stop yammering on and show you some of my favourite pieces! I took all them photos so let me know if you wanted high res copies to flaunt about ok? X

Isn't it the most beautiful Auckland summer's day today! Have a good one lovelies!

xoxox
Miss Deb

I'm In!!!

2008-11-12T17:49:00.003+08:00

Oh my god Oh my god Oh my god Oh my god Oh my god Oh my god Oh my god...

I'm WAY too excited to go to sleep...

Guess what??

I got into November's Kraftbomb!!!!!!

(Okay, for those of you that don't know, Kraftbomb is the coolest indie craft sale in the solar system...i got to join in last month's one and it was superb! You have to apply and be selected so i applied and YEEYAH...)

I even had an inspired moment earlier on today before i'd found out as to something cool to make if i did another sale.

Watch this space ok? It's actually not monkey related at all..which is refreshing! Don't worry, once a cheeky monkey, always a cheeky monkey!

xoxo
Sleep well and sweet dreams lovelies..

Miss Deb

Phew!

2008-11-10T08:13:00.004+08:00

2 days of mayhem in the weekend at the Rose Festival was intense! I'm so glad it's all over now. Don't get me wrong, we had fun but i think i'll flag doing a whole 2 day market next time...i'm all about short and sweet hehehe!!
We did have the most gorgeous day on Saturday though...ended up sprawled on the grass a few feet away from my stall chatting with mates and snoozing in the sun!

I didn't sell heaps of my little ones but we spoke to the other sellers there and they said that people definately weren't in buying mode. Dang recession...=P On a brighter note, i did meet a few lovely ladies who asked if I had any of my work on Etsy. That's a huge compliment as I'm an avid Etsy addict but never thought my stuff was cool enough...so now I'm on a mission to take some photos and slap up some of my bad boys up there! Oh, and I've got to make and pop a few more monkeys on Toggle too! The lovely Toggle ladies Esther & Shellley got a mention in the last issue of (only the best magazine on the planet!) Frankie, so proud of them!! Girl power all the way!X

Anyhoo, i've finally got a chance to have a wee breather before i get started on some new stuff before the Christmas rush! I went sock shopping just the other day and as always i got a funny look from the cashier until i confessed my secret sock monkey obsession...I don't really see socks anymore, but their monkey potential instead! Tee hee hee

I'll leave you with a couple of pics from the weekend and catch up again soon!
xoxo Miss Deb

Bliss..

2008-11-06T03:57:00.005+08:00

Hello lovelies!

Sorry for the silence...as you may have gathered the Parnell Festival of Roses is only days away so once again i'm swept up in absolute monkey mayhem. Maybe i should just have a monkey war theme for my room that way it can always have sock limbs strewn all over the place!

Anyway, i hope alls well with you. I just had a moment to take a deep breath and be mindful of all the things i'm grateful for. I'm grateful for the sun shining through my window, the people around me that i love and adore...and the awesome people who continue to inspire and encourage me and my creations...it feels so personal when someone loves what you have lovingly created. It makes it all so worthwhile...
Here are some photos of my friend Kirsten and her little girl Milla that are definately warm fuzzies worthy! Check out some of Kristen's awesome stuff on toggle too, click here.

Have a superb day today everyone and know that you are awesome!

Lots of hugs and kisses,
Miss Deb