De Derrière

2012-02-14T23:59:00.002+08:00

Shiawase Ni Narou Yo 幸せになろうよ

I finally completed the drama. I'll give it maybe 6/10.

Katori Shingo (Takakura Junpei) is an advisor at a marriage consulting agency. One day, Kuroki Meisa (Yanagisawa Haruna) joined the agency after her boyfriend broke up with her. Don't know how and don't know why Takakura developed feelings for Yanagisawa. He didn't know it initially but he always have a toothache after meeting her. His close friend, Ueno who is a dentist knew that whenever he has feelings for someone, he developed a toothache instead of heartache.Takakura's colleague, Sakuragi who likes him also felt that he shows too much concern for this member.

There is a scene which shows collaboration with 2 characters from the drama Boss! I happened to love this drama and happy to see them appear for a few minutes here!

The funny part about this drama is Ueno and the member of the agency, Komatsubara. How he over reacted in situations is so dramatic. Another main character is the ex-boyfriend Yashiro ,lawyer. He joined the agency despite being married trying to win back the relationship with Yanagisawa. He didn't manage to win back this relationship and loses his wife and family too. He did not expect his wife to also have an affair behind his back and the baby she is carrying is not his!! As his father in law has huge influence in the law industry, he no longer can set foot in the industry again. After the setback, (I have no idea if he fell by accident or he tried to commit suicide) he fell off the stairs and was hospitalised.

Takakura professed his love for Yanagisawa and finally the 2 get together. One rule of the agency is that the staff must not get involved with the members. Knowing he continues to work in the agency, he will be unable to properly date Yanagisawa, he quitted! Seeing Yashiro hospitalised, he gets Yanagisawa to take care of him which later causes their break up.

After realizing he thought she would be happier with Yashiro is just his thoughts, he chased after her again. Finally finding her working in her mom's company he proposed! And of course, she agreed.

I let the theme song run and run because it's SMAP's not alone shiawase ni narou yo!

Happy ending... and Happy Valentines! ♥

2012-02-12T01:44:00.005+08:00

Since I have problem sleeping tonight. I shall update the dramas I watched these few weeks. Wonder why I did not choose to edit the exhibitors' kit instead.

1. 外交官・黒田康作, Diplomat Kuroda Kousaku

This is a sequel to the movie, Amalfi. Though I didn't really enjoy Amalfi but I cannot resist watching Shibasaki Kou and Oda Yuji. Kuroda works as a diplomat in the anti-terrorism office and Ogaki is a new detective who gets nowhere in the department. She wanted to participate in the cases but always only get to draw maps for them in the investigations. Until Kuroda requested for her to help him in investigations of a fraud suicide case.

The terrorists were plotting to murder all the associated officials who brought in a drug which has severe complications for some. The terrorists made up of those whose family were killed by the drug including a senior detective, government officials, doctor, journalist and a student.

Didn't quite expect how everyone is involved until the end.

2. Team Batista 3 アリアドネの弾丸

Part 1 - 3 used the same main cast but focused on different departments in the hospital. Part 1 was Cardiac, part 2 was Emergency and this is the Imaging Department. As there are many unknown death cases and often just neglected as the death cause is always heart failure. Tojo University Hospital then set up a new centre AI, Autopsy Imaging. The forensic department and the police does not support this initiative. After several murders which happened in the AI centre, Shiratori and Taguchi began investigating.

While watching, I already guessed the murderer but still there are several twists to it. Really like Nakamura Toru. This is one of the rare dramas that he is the good guy though he is so sarcastic in the show but he is so intuitive. Always managed to find clues to solve the crime and he is not even a police. His sidekick, Dr Taguchi has stick with him all 3 dramas. The bond between the 2 is great! I hope there is a part 4!

Am half way through watching 幸せになろうよ Shiawase Ni Narou Yo. Was thinking real hard whether to buy this or not. Ratings not ideal even though this is Fuji TV's Monday 9pm drama and I don't like Kuroki Meisa very much but Shingo is in it! The theme song is also sang by SMAP!

Synopsis from drama wiki, shall pen my thoughts after I completed it.

The story involves Katori playing a successful advisor at a marriage consultation agency that aims to bring together people looking for partners. Kuroki plays one of the agency’s clients, who is “so beautiful” that the manual he uses doesn’t apply to her, while Fujiki plays a rich and handsome lawyer who is also a client. Katori starts to fall for Kuroki, but as a professional, he pairs the two together.

2012-02-10T23:51:00.005+08:00

A to Z Alphabet-ography

Airport
Taken: 2012
Location: Narita International Airport, Japan

Bubbles
Taken: 2007
Location: Hokkaido, Japan
With: Pauline Pillai

Crepes
Taken: 2011
Location: Harajuku, Japan

Disneyland
Taken: 2002
Location: Tokyo Disneyland, Japan
With: Joshua Tan

Eagle
Taken: 2008
Location: Langkawi, Malaysia
With: Lydia Razali

Friends
Taken: 2003
Location: Gold Coast, Australia
With: Baiwei, Wanhui, Darren, Dylan, Alex

Golf Course
Taken: 2008
Location: Mission Hills Golf Course, China
With: John Chua & Daniel Knowles

Hard Rock Hotel
Taken: 2006
Location: Hard Rock Hotel Pattaya, Thailand
With: Ah Siong & Rong Chang

Ice Skating
Taken: 2011
Location: Akasaka Sacas, Japan

Jellyfish
Taken: Just now
Location: Home

Kangaroo
Taken: 2003
Location: Dreamworld, Australia
With: Alex, Darren & Dylan

Lego
Taken: 2005
Location: Venus Fort, Japan
With: Anthony Zhong

Mayday
Taken: 2010
Location: Busstop after NUS High School
With: Brian Lee

Nasi Padang
Taken: 2011
Location: Jakarta, Indonesia
With: Adi, Ana & Pak Willie

Oktoberfest
Taken: 2009
Location: Swiss Club
With: Jeron Ong

Prada
Taken: 2011
Location: Aoyama, Japan

Queen Victoria Building
Taken: 2010
Location: Sydney, Australia

Rainbow Bridge
Taken: 2005
Location: Odaiba, Japan
With: Anthony Zhong

Sydney Opera House
Taken: 2010
Location: Sydney, Australia

Tokyo Tower
Taken: 2011
Location: Tokyo, Japan

Uluwatu
Taken: 2010
Location: Bali, Indonesia
With: Pauline Pillai, Yvonne Goh, Felix Kwang

Victoria Harbour
Taken: 2004
Location: Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong
With: Bernard Chee & Vivian Chee

White Water Rafting
Taken: 2010
Location: Bali, Indonesia
With: Pauline Pillai, Yvonne Goh, Felix Kwang

Xu Liu Shan
Taken: 2012
Location: Lai Chi Kok, Hong Kong
With: Andrea Li

Yokohama
Taken: 2011
Location: Yokohama, Japan

Zoo
Taken: 2011
Location: Ueno, Japan

2012-02-09T00:55:00.004+08:00

This is a little outdated. Although I have a month break but out of which more than half of the month were spent overseas.

The End of Year and New Year Travel

Didn't plan this trip and just happened to have free time on my hands and everything seemed to just fit in. I booked the last room in the hotel and managed to get cheap fares on Delta.

Since I was just there 4 months ago and I told myself let this be a more sight-seeing trip than a shopping one.

My flight was at 6am and I need to check in at 4am. Instead of taking the cab, I took the last train to the airport at 12am. Although I was exhausted but there were just too much entertainment provided on board.

The pilot even broadcasted that we can see a snow clad Mount Fuji. The air crew were offering drinks throughout the flight. Very pleasant experience with Delta!

Once arrived at the airport, everything else is too familiar. To buy the Suica-Nex pass and I even managed to catch the train to Ikebukuro at 1415hrs and I was buying the pass at 1410hrs. It was cold. Averaging about 1 - 9 degrees daily. As it was late, I spent my time in Ikebukuro. I love this place. Went to bookstores to check out the books I want to buy and of course a CD store to check out SMAP's latest single, Boku no Hanbun! Bought some snacks from Family Mart and back to the hotel exhausted.

Poster spotted

First time I had a hotel room with a good view. Not like harbour view or sea view but because there are so many buildings all around and it is always facing the other buildings or other rooms. But this time I got a high floor, must be due to the smoking room I got and can see the sunset!

View from the room

28/12/11 Day 2 was a lot of walking. Took a train to Harajuku and shopped at one of my favourite place, Takeshita Dori and realize I did not bring money, only have whatever was left from yesterday and I planned to visit the SMAP shop today.

Entrance to Takeshita Dori

But still I couldn't resist buying a SMAP poster at a shop. But all the rest are just aiming and I'll be back. Always will go to Harajuku more than once per trip.
Went to Daiso and they have a whole range of concert DIY stuffs! A pity I did not get any.

Finally found the Stay Real Store! Didn't manage to find it the previous trip.

Walked towards Ometesando, Aoyama, Roppongi and finally reached Akasaka. This is my 1st time to Akasaka as this is not on the Yamanote line and Akasaka doesn't have enough for me to specially make a trip there. But it is all different this time as the annual SMAP shop is at Akasaka Sacas! Reached at 2pm but was full and luckily I got a ticket for a 6pm slot which means I have to modify my itinerary.

Running SMAP shop - After listening to the song then I realize why is it called Running SMAP. After the earthquake, many people have to rebuild their homes and many places too. Therefore running together to the future :)

Had Katsu-don for lunch at a nearby restaurant and head towards Tokyo Tower.

Plan initially was complete Akasaka and then head to Roppongi and finally Tokyo Tower to catch both the day and night views of Tokyo Tower.

View from the Tokyo Tower

But luckily it is winter and night came pretty early. After viewing the top and came out at 5pm, it was pretty dark.

Now the only concern is I spent 800 yen for the ticket to Tokyo Tower and bought a Tokyo Tower model for 500 yen and had lesser money on hand to spend at the SMAP shop! I buy a Tokyo Tower model every trip.

Even though I had the ticket to enter at 6pm, I still have to queue for about another 30 mins to be able to enter the shop. As the theme is Running SMAP, the shop had treadmills and costumes of SMAP in various shows and concerts. This is so very exciting for me! Being able to visit the SMAP shop and I am a huge fan! And Kimura Takuya visited the shop yesterday!
Due to financial constraints, I only bought the new single, Running SMAP single and the concert DVD. But I got a calendar, postcard and poster for free! This is totally a PLUS point for the trip!

TBS (Tokyo Broadcasting System) was only opposite Akasaka Sacas and decided to pop in to take a look. As this is their 60th anniversary, they have a small corner to display past productions. There is also an ice skating rink just right in front of TBS.

Christmas Tree infront of TBS

Took a train to Omotesando and saw the pretty Christmas illuminations. Though it is not as elaborate but it is definitely prettier than the Orchard ones. Then it is back to Harajuku to take a train back to Ikebukuro. As my legs were about to come off after a day of walking, I packed KFC back to the hotel. Which is a great decision as Nakai, Tsuyoshi and Shingo were on a New Year Special Programme!

Omotesando Hills! So pretty!

I snapped like 300 over pictures just by watching TV.

29/12/11 Day 3 - Since this is more of a sightseeing trip, how could I miss Ueno. This is 1 place which will definitely be in my itinerary every time I visit Tokyo. First stop, Ueno Koen.

This park has really pretty pink sights during the Sakura period. Being winter now, the trees are bare but that doesn't stop people from visiting. There is a zoo in the park, some museums and shrines. After a long walk at the park, I bought an ice-cream and sat down at the chilly bench to eat. The Ojisans who walked past me must be thinking I am a nut case, eating that in this kind of weather.

The post box outside Ueno Zoo

A trip to Ameyayokocho is also a must! There are stalls selling seafood, small restaurants and retail stores. As this is the new year period, you can see a lot of people buying crabs and seafood.

Took the subway to Asakusa. I am really bad at subways because I always travel by the JR and Yamanote line already can go to a lot of places I like. Asakusa is also a must go for me. The beautiful sights of Asahi beer building, the new skyline - Tokyo Sky Tree, Senso-Ji and Nakamise.

The view right outside Asakusa Station

Senso-Ji

A walk along Nakamise will see all my yen flying. But I think I already bought most of them 4 months back and this time, I only bought some food. And of course must eat a pumpkin kueh from the ninki store!

Praying at the Senso-ji is 1 thing that I do everytime. And of course getting a lot too.

Then it's lunch at my favourite soba place!

Since I am on the Ginza subway line, took a train to Ginza which I usually do not go to. Ginza is well known for high end luxury goods and I am on a sightseeing trip!

But because I watch this travel programme and saw that the Forever 21 in Ginza has limited Edition Disney stuffs, so Ginza it is! But because the very vain me only wore boots and my toe nail for that little toe rubbed against the 4th toe and it hurts and hindered my walkathon. But I need to get that Mickey tee I saw in Harajuku that day! I was saving all my money for the SMAP shop and didn't get that. Can't find in Ginza and decided to head to rest my poor feet. Headed back to the hotel for a while and then head out for some curry!

30/12/11 Day 4 - The hotel I always stayed has breakfast included. Few years back it was only onigiri and miso soup. The onigiri though plain but is yummy! Now they have bread and salad too! I have no idea how they make the egg mayo but it is superb! Never tasted a better one!

Was deciding to go Yokohama or not after reading the not so good reviews. Actually planned to go in August but I didn't too. Finally decided to check out the place and I like the place!

It is about 30 mins train ride from Shibuya. But be sure to take the rapid train instead of the local one as it does not stop at every stop. After exiting the train station, the first thing I saw was the Cosmo World. And since I am such an avid fan of Ferris Wheel, I took so many pictures. One thing which is different from this theme park to the rest I have been to is the admission fee.
You don't pay an admission fee for this one and only pay for the rides.

There are a few attractions which is within walking distance.
While walking to the Red Brick Warehouse, saw something interesting which is the Velo Taxi. The driver sitted the passengers properly, gave a blanket for them to cover then seal up the exits carefully and then begin to ride in the cold! The service standards everywhere in Japan are the best! And it was a cold day!

There are shops and restaurants in the Red Brick Warehouse and some of them sells very interesting stuffs! A walk will get me to Yamashita Koen. Today is really cold and it seemed like a bad idea to walk by the harbour but nevertheless I walked and my toes still hurt. I do not know why I procrastinated buying a pair of toe socks which will minimize friction between the 2 fighting toes.

Wanted to catch the night view of the ferris wheel and went in to shop for awhile. There are Snoopy Town, Disney and Hello Kitty stores in the mall! Got a sweater for Andrea since I am visiting her next week. Because of winter and the sky got really dark at 5pm. The illuminations here are so pretty! Caught some nice pictures and back to Shibuya.

Had ramen for dinner and luckily I still remember how to get there. The ramen is super delicious!

Saw Forever 21 and decided to check out the Disney shirt but could not find it and decided to walk to Harajuku. On the way walking to Harajuku, this ang moh couple asked me where to find this kids' bazaar. Do I look like a Japanese? But nevertheless after I saw their map I knew exactly where is the shop and direct them there.
Finally got my Disney shirt in Harajuku and can rest my case.

There is this programme which featured 8 students either from the top universities in Japan or student who top in tuition programmes. Medical students, law student and mathematician. The only question which I think I sure win them is English. They have to answer like the past leaders from Rome even though they study medicine and other majors and know the name of the animal shown. Really tough questions. The top 2 are the 2 medical students from Tokyo University and I think Kyoto University. Was really an intense competition! Only very minor gap in the scores, even I was nervous.

31/12/11 Day 5 - Another highlight of the trip is the NHK Kouhaku Uta Gassen! So looking forward to it! So the itinerary today is simple, just Ikebukuro and I can come back to the hotel anytime. There is another count down programme which stretches up to 5am tonight!
Just the usual places around, Sunshine City, Tobu and Lumine. There are enough malls in Ikebukuro to keep me occupied. Back to the hotel at around 4 and there is a special programme featuring Nakai-kun. He talked about his life as a Johnny's Junior and how he progressed day by day. It is interesting to know that how they submit the applications and Johnny's has free dance lessons for all. And from the back row and after recognition from the teachers, he slowly moved forwards and 1 day Kitagawa-san asked him to learn roller-blading. He find it too much of a chore and did not continue learning blading and to his surprise, a Johnny's new group debuted in roller blades! It was then he realize he could be the one in this group if he has taken roller-blading seriously! And shortly, Kimura Takuya, Inagaki Goro, Kusanagi Tsuyoshi, Mori, Katori Shingo joined and they formed SMAP! Mori dropped out sometime to pursue a career in professional riding! Now after blogging then I realize how much I can understand Japanese TV. Hahaha just kidding, I cannot understand a lot.

After this, a nap to help me survive the night! Finally the show begins! Host this year, Arashi for the white team and Inoue Mao for the red team. Nadeshiko Japan started the programme this year. They appeared in many programmes after winning the world cup! For no idea how many years but it's quite a few, Hamasaki Ayumi starts her performance first. She appeared in this beautiful white long gown and after a change of pace in the song, the dancers appeared tearing the gown! They were all hidden beneath the gown! Amazing! Enjoyed Ayaka, Kumi Koda, Mickey Mouse and Ashida Mana and Suzuki Fuku, Hirai Ken, Tokio, Exile, Fukuyama Masaharu's live concert from Yokohama and of course the finale SMAP. Pity they only sang 2 songs but it is all made up later from CDTV's Countdown live!

As NHK published the performance sequence, I had time to run downstairs to buy some dinner during the Enka performances. 1 other amazing thing is I can vote for the team via the TV remote! This is so cool! The red team finally won this year after several years of defeat!
This is one of the very best way to end the year! Ana said the only reason to explain my craze for this country is that I was born in the wrong country and trying to get back. Sounds about right.
As Nakai-kun is the host for the CDTV Countdown live and Kouhaku ends at 2345hrs, he has less than 15 mins from Shibuya to Akasaka. SMAP being the last performance, this is a real challenge. He did not even wait until the announcement of the winner and he left NHK.
CDTV begins right after Kouhaku on TBS. On the screen shows that Nakai-kun is in the process of getting to TBS. Still wondering can he make it before the countdown and he appeared like 2 minutes before the clock strikes midnight!
SMAP performed a few songs and this is bliss!

Finally going to bed at 3.30am since the SMAP segment is over.

01/01/12 Day 6 - Happy New Year! あけましておめでとうございます！Like all Japanese do, visit the Shrine on New Year's day and so do I! Dressed in a totally will freeze to death mini dress with heattech stockings (they better work and boots) with my not very warm trench coat.

The hotel GM was out in the breakfast area to serve soups to everyone! How nice!

Set off to Meiji-Jingu! It was so crowded! Police officers all around to direct the way but it was controlled. Everyone was moving in order, can't imagine this happening in any other place.

Next is Takeshita-Dori! Cannot help but to buy more SMAP stuffs! Didn't want to spend on socks but I ended up buying 3 pairs. Hopefully the toe socks can save me! But got a coupon to buy crepe at a discount so it's not that bad after all!

Loads of Fukubukuro everywhere.

Didn't get any as many of them are winter clothes which are pretty useless in the hot and humid Singapore. But had fun checking them out!
Usual route down to Shibuya, heaps of shops are having sale. Forever 21, H&M and so many many more.
Of the so many people on the street, this group of Ang Moh chose to ask me for direction. After I told them I am not a Japanese, one of them spoke to me in Mandarin. Well, hope my direction helped them get to the sushi place!
Back to the hotel in the evening and watch TV! The TV programmes are awesome! There is this NY special programme where the guests have to guess which is the more expensive instrument, food etc and they'll demote your level whenever you made the wrong guess. Gackt is super! The guesses he made are all correct! Super impressive!

Kimura Takuya and Sanma-san with Aerosmith!

New Softbank CM

Really a good day to start the new year in Japan!

020112 Day 7 - Today is tour day! Set off the Shinjuku early in the morning and miss breakfast in the hotel because I was worried I could not find the bus park! But then it seemed easier than before as I didn't even have to really looked for it and I am there!
Booked a day tour to the lakes for Mt Fuji viewing! From a distance still can see the whole Fuji-san but when we are near the foot we can't see!

3.15pm is the best time to capture the Diamond Fuji but because the clouds are all over the tip and all we can see is the bottom. Waited for a while and finally the clouds cleared a little and managed to see the top but no Diamond Fuji!

Had this noodle hot pot for lunch and with pumpkin! Was yummy!

Visited the houses from the Edo period and can see the samurai!

We drove past the Fuji Q Wonderland a few times and the rides do look interesting!

Must visit one day! Visited Oshino-Hakkai too!

Was back at Shinjuku around 7.30pm. I am really hopeless in Shinjuku. The station is too big and too many exits. Decided to just go back to Ikebukuro for dinner and PACK! I always enjoy packing but even though I didn't buy too many things I have a problem stuffing everything in the enormous luggage and I do have another enormous hand carry bag. Weird.

030112 - Last day! My NEX train to Narita is at 1433hrs and after checking out at 10, I roamed around my favourite district again.
Forgot did I mention it before, Tokyu Hands is a must visit place.

There are so many interesting things and so many floors. Even Ana will love it as there is a section on lomo but my bet is that she has almost everything they sold already. Bought some milk candies for Mom here, yes she is like a kid who likes to eat sweets and ice cream.
GU is a even cheaper place to buy clothes. Subsidiary of Uniqlo. Saw this trench coat a few days back but decided not to buy it but I have no idea why I decided to go get it and 1 more thing to stuff in my bag.
I forgot entrance 1 or 2 has a lift to the platform and chose the wrong one. Lugging 2 enormous bags up the stairs is not for the faint hearted.
As usual, I fell asleep in a moving vehicle. Woke up half way and realize a good looking ang moh was sitting beside me. :)
Caught this lovely picture of the sun setting at Narita Airport and I miss this place already!

Love the in-flight entertainment on Delta. So many movies to watch.
Another joy is seeing familiar faces at the airport! Thank you Ana and Adi!

While blogging this, I so wanted to go to Tokyo again. Shall be back 2014!

I love the Yamanote line so much that I have a watch like that. Can you imagine?

2012-01-01T00:01:00.015+08:00

Remembering 2011 Awards

Best Holiday:
Japan (Naturally) Twice in a year is something new and totally unplanned!
Jakarta! Twice too and totally fun!

Drama of the Year:
Japan
Nagareboshi - Takenouchi Yutaka, Ueto Aya
Though this is telecasted in Japan 2010 but the DVD is only available here later
Hong Kong
真相 - Tavia Yeung, Raymond Wong, Ruco Chan

Song of the Year:
Kazouku Ni Narou Yo - Masaharu Fukuyama
Ima No Kimi Wo Wasurenai - Naoto Inti Raymi
Boku No Hanbun - SMAP

Movie of the Year:
English: Smurfs
Japanese: Space Battleship Yamato

Restaurant of the Year:
Crystal Jade

Low Point of the Year:
I think I had several low points. All related to work. Weren't happy in many places.

Best Event of the Year:
Only did EBM and LIAS Awards but I would say EBM!

High Point of the Year:
Winning the top prize at the Fukubukuro Bag Promotion!

Best Roger Federer Moment of the Year:
Winning Paris Masters for the 1st time in his career. Also his 802th matches win, his 69th career titles, 18th ATP Masters Event title and by being in the finals, he is the only player to play in every ATP Masters Event! I couldn't be happier! :)

Then he also won the Barclays ATP World Tour finals. Also his 807th matches win, his 70th career titles, 6th ATPWTF titles (record holder)!

RF himself said he didn't think he ever finished the season so strong! Go Roger for 2012 and win some slams!

Website of the Year:
Google.com

First Experiences:
Travelled solo to places out of Tokyo!
Pluck grapes at a plantation in Yamanashi!
Being able to participate in Hanabi Taikai!
Trying out batik!
Heading to Bandung!
Quitting 2 companies in a year!
Visiting Jakarta twice!
Visiting Japan twice!
Watching the NHK 第６２回紅白歌合戦 in Japan on TV though!

Best Experience of the Year:
Tokyo!

Diagnosed

2011-12-31T23:59:00.059+08:00

If I was a psychologist, what would I diagnose the blog owner with?

Looking through her blog and knowing her personally, I would say that she has O(s)CD: Obsessive & slightly Compulsive Disorder.

There are 6 obsessions I know of, and possibly one more possibility that has just recently been revealed:

Hello Kitty
Roger Federer
SMAP - Particular attention paid to Takuya Kimura
Japan
Japanese Drama Serials
THE Neighbour
and possibly MayDay

Other than having not enough room for her Hello Kitty collection and Japanese drama DVDs, due to the compulsion to buy every possibly thing related to these 2 categories, the obsession with Roger Federer and SMAP seems mild until you realise she will be the kind to camp overnight outside the hotel's staff entrance just so she could take a picture of them leaving or arriving.

She actually collects pictures of Roger Federer, and even takes pictures of him off the television screen to when the news is showing his match or interview. She will wake up at 3 in the morning just to catch a live streaming of his game. Even go to the hotel's lobby to get a better wifi reception so that she can watch the live streaming of the game at 2 in the morning, and she was sick!

With SMAP, it isn't so bad until you hear her ringtone. I haven't gone through her ipod or into her room, but I bet that will be posters of them everywhere, and possibly all the Gatsby videos that featured Kimura. I do remember once when she was considering taking the poster off one of the pharmacy shelves when it had Kimura's picture on the advertisement. Another time she was considering getting the poster from the ads featured near local bus stops.

Japan is one of the more normal obsession she has, however, if you find out more, it's as if she's been born in the wrong country and trying to get back. There is a bit of doubt her though as she doesn't like seaweed or wasabi. A bit strange for someone who absolutely loves all things Japanese. Like I said, maybe this is the only normal love of something she has.

Last of the list is THE neighbour. She's had this obsession for a very long time, and she even watches him from her kitchen window! She sees when the neighbour goes to work, when the neighbour returns, she knows where this neighbour works as well.

Now I'll just have to wait and take note about this new group called MayDay.

Oh, just in case you didn't realise before, I'm no psychologist. But most of the things written above are rather real, with minor exaggerations. :p

2011-12-30T23:37:00.001+08:00

Day 30 - How you’ve changed this month

1. From having a job to jobless
2. From being miserable to happy
3. From being in Singapore to Tokyo

That sums it up. I can't wait to see the guest post on the 31st Dec. Though I know it'll be an addiction problem :)

2011-12-29T22:33:00.000+08:00

Day 29 - Three things you want to change about yourself

1. Be able to bring up my tolerance level
2. Be able to have a neat and tidy room always
3. Be able to shop lesser

2011-12-28T21:43:00.000+08:00

Day 28 - Two good things that happened recently

These 2 came to my mind right away.

1. The good deal flight and after procrastinating I missed it. But I believe I will be able to see the good deal again and indeed it appeared. And so I am travelling again! (Though I blogged this on 16th Dec) :)

2. The real good hotel deal and the only room left and I managed to book it. :)

It became a good thing that I declined to go Korea. It became a good thing that I resigned. Too many good things. :)

Published with Blogger-droid v1.6.8

2011-12-27T20:40:00.000+08:00

Day 27 - Something you’re worrying about

I am waiting to start a new old job. Not going to be easy, a lot more to learn. Worried about the hours, the pain and the torture.

Tough but no pain no gain right? Anyhow have to bite the bullet and embrace what is waiting for me.

2011-12-26T20:32:00.000+08:00

Day 26 - Three pictures of yourself

2011-12-25T16:25:00.000+08:00

Day 25 - Something you’re really excited for

For now, Hong Kong. Haven't been there for quite a few years and the last time I entered via the ferry terminal from Guangzhou. Didn't really have time to explore last time too. Was just a short visit in between visiting Vivian and Bernard's parents.

This time I'll have longer to explore and even in the residential areas as Andrea agreed to host me for the week!

It'll be even nicer if there is a concert for me to catch!

Merry Christmas Everyone!

2011-12-24T16:17:00.000+08:00

Day 24 - The nicest thing you’ve ever done

I have done many nice things, very hard to just pick one. :)

Let's just take it as I once helped a friend in his impossible situation and caused myself to be in an awkward position. At that time, didn't think too much and went ahead until much later then I realize the consequences.

But I am happy to be able to rescue him from his dire calamity. You feel a sense of happiness helping someone out without expecting any returns.

2011-12-23T16:13:00.001+08:00

Day 23 - Your family

There are 5 in my family. Besides Dad and Mom, I also have 2 irritating brothers. No matter what happens, how unlucky I am at work or what, I always think that I am blessed to have such a family.

I love my mom and dad and even my 2 very irritating brothers.

When we were young, or maybe it's just me. I was so busy at work and having fun and I didn't realize how important the family is. Until I had a regular working hours then I know what I was missing out all these time. I especially love the quality time spent together watching TV every evening.

I have the best family!

2011-12-22T16:12:00.000+08:00

Day 22 - The last fight or argument you had

I actually cannot recall when's the last but definitely has to be my brother because we fight so regularly.

Always about something very minor and silly. Either it's about dinner or some other stuffs, always fighting.

2011-12-21T16:12:00.000+08:00

Day 21 - Write a poem where each line starts with a letter from your first name (an acrostic). It can be about anything, but it should not be about you or your name.

A - Autumn's red and orange leaves
N - Never seen a prettier sight
G - Gone are the lovely Freesia
I - In the December cold
E - Echos fade and memories old

Poetic? :)

2011-12-20T17:39:00.000+08:00

Day 20 - Quickly jot down four verbs, four adjectives, and four nouns. Write a poem using all 12 words

Write, Learn, Sing, Wink

Interesting, Funny, Ordinary, Sharp

Summer, Desire, Event, Holiday

I realized after coming up with the words I have no idea how to write a poem based on these words! It is quite easy coming up with the birthday poem for RF but don't know why I am now stuck.

I Learn to walk before I could Write
I can Wink and Sing
I am neither Interesting nor Funny
I am Ordinary and Sharp
I like Event and I owned a Desire
I had a Holiday in Japan this Summer

Ok sounds really crappy :)

2011-12-19T17:34:00.000+08:00

Day 19 - Favourite subject in class

In primary school should be Chinese since that's my highest scoring subject.

I actually like History in Secondary School.

I like quite a number of subjects in Shatec, Front Office Operations, Convention and Exhibition Organisation, Property Management Systems, Banquet Operations, F&B Cost Control and F&B Service. It was a fun and enriching 3 years!

2011-12-18T10:36:00.000+08:00

Day 18 -Something you collect

Movie stubs. No idea why. The first movie stub I collected was 1998, the movie Jackal. So been collecting it ever since.

2011-12-17T18:14:00.000+08:00

Day 17 - The person you like and why you like them

I know him when we were 15. We went to the same school and had our attachment at the same hotel even.

We have several things in common and often met nowadays. He is very humorous and never fails to make me laugh at the most impossible situation. He has goals on what he wants and is very responsible in his work.
I can talk at ease with him although sometimes he can be very sarcastic but only friends will tell you the truth.

2011-12-16T17:56:00.000+08:00

Day 16 - Something you love

I also have a lot of things I love. Just look at the sidebar!

1 thing to list will be 4 leaf clover. I cannot remember when. Clover looks like 4 heart shapes together. According to tradition, this brings good luck and according to legend, each leaf represents something: the first is for faith, the second is for hope, the third is for love, and the fourth is for luck.

Don't think there is a 4 leaf one in the picture, but this is a picture taken recently at Bandung.

2011-12-15T16:29:00.000+08:00

Day 15 - Something you hate

I am a hater according to my sister, Yazid. He said I don't like a lot of things and people which is true.

Just to list 1 will be smoke. I personally cannot endure too much 2nd hand smoke. I will have runny nose and I hate that my hair smelled of smoke. I am actually glad that smoking is not allowed in pubs not that I frequent them often.

Recently always meet some industry people and there is a place where they can smoke and drink. I felt like puking when I smell smoke on my clothes and hair.

2011-12-14T01:19:00.001+08:00

Day 14 - Five things you want to say to five people

Shall do 2 versions!

Version 1

1. Ben - Thank you for all your advices! I love listening and talking to you!
2. Gong - I miss you!
3. BC -Let me see you more often!
4. Mark - Thank you for everything!
5. Adrian - Bring me to the Michelin Star Dim Sum restaurant!

Version 2

1. Kimura Takuya - Supporting you all the way!
2. Roger Federer - Win us some Grand Slams and Olympic titles for 2012!
3. Takenouchi Yutaka - More dramas please!
4. Mayday - Looking forward to a great show 25 Feb!
5. Michael Phelps - Looking forward to more record breaking swims at the Olympics!

2011-12-13T01:10:00.000+08:00

Day 13 - What kind of person attracts you

Someone intelligent who has ideas and goals.

2011-12-12T18:25:00.000+08:00

Day 12 - Ten things about you that people wouldn’t expect

I think after I post this, I'll not have any friends. Hahaha but I really can't think of 10 things that people wouldn't expect from me. Some are quite out in the open but here goes.

1. I have a messy room
2. I am very stubborn
3. I am actually competitive
4. I am very critical
5. Addicted to the internet
6. I have to have breakfast in the morning
7. I need to have my clothes, bag, shoes, accessories and watch matched
8. I do watch 1 or 2 Korean dramas
9. I kept movie stubs since 1998
10. I am very lazy

2011-12-11T17:33:00.001+08:00

Day 11 - The best thing to happen to you this week

I think it must be the opportunity to have a shot at something. I just hope it is not as crazy as before.

2011-12-10T22:18:00.000+08:00

Day 10 - Your favorite song and why it’s your favourite song

I have a few songs that I like very much and had to think for a while which song to pick as a favourite one.

Shall pick this since this is the first song that comes to my mind. I always feel at ease listening to this song.

SMAP - Yozora no Mukou (the other side of the night sky)

Yozora no Mukou 夜空ノムコウ

Are kara bokutachi wa
Nanika wo shinjite koreta kana
Yozora no mukou ni wa
Ashita ga mou matteiru

Dareka no koe ni kizuki
Bokura wa mi wo hisometa
Kouen no FUENSU goshi ni
Yoru no kaze ga fuita
Kimi ga nanika tsutaeyou to
Nigiri kaeshita sono te wa
Boku no kokoro no yarakai basho wo
Imademo mada shimetsukeru

Are kara bokutachi wa
Nanika wo shinjite koreta kana
Mado wo soto akete miru
Fuyu no kaze no nioi ga shita
Kanashimi tte itsuka wa
Kieteshimau mono na no kana
Tameiki wa sukoshi dake
Shiroku nokotte sugu kieta

Arukidasu koto sae mo
Ichi ichi tamerau kuse ni
Tsumaranai joushiki nado
Tsuguseru to omotteta
Kimi ni hanashita kotoba wa
Dore dake nokotteiru no
Boku no kokoro no ichiban oku de
Karamawari shitsuzukeru

Ano koro no mirai ni
Bokura wa tatteiru no kana
Subete ga omou hodo
Umaku wa ikanaimitai da
Kono mama dokomademo hibi wa
Tsuzuiteiku no kana
Kumono nai hoshizoro ga
Mado no mukou ni tsuzuiteru
Are kara bokutachi wa
Nanika wo shinjite koreta kana
Yozora no mukou ni wa mou asu ga matteiru

Ever since then
I wonder if we could come to believe in something...
Beyond the night sky
Tomorrow is already waiting

Noticing someone's voice
We hid ourselves
Beyond the park fence
The night wind was blowing

The way your hand returned my grasp
As if you were trying to tell me something
Even now, in a soft place in my heart
That gesture squeezes my heart

Ever since then
I wonder if we could come to believe in something...
Softly, I'll try to open the window
I could smell the wind of winter

I wonder if sadness is something
That will someday completely disappear...
My sigh just slightly
Left a trace of white, then soon disappeared

Even when I start to walk
With each step, I hesitate
But I had thought that I could crush
My worthless common sense

The words I spoke to you
How much of them remain?
In the very deepest part of my heart
The fruitless efforts continue

I wonder if we're standing
In the future of that time
It seems like nothing is going
Quite as well as we had hoped

I wonder how much further
These days will continue like this...
The cloudless starry sky
Continues beyond the window

Ever since then
I wonder if we could come to believe in something...
Beyond the night sky
Tomorrow is already waiting

2011-12-09T22:11:00.001+08:00

Day 9 - Your opinion on cheating on people

Cheating sounded wrong already but some things cannot be judged by the word only. It has to be weighed differently in different circumstances.

Sometimes people just don't want the truth.

2011-12-08T19:50:00.001+08:00

Day 8 - Screenshot your desktop

This must be the easiest post.

2011-12-07T21:12:00.001+08:00

Day 7 - Five things that irritate you about the same sex? Opposite sex?

Male
1. Egoistic
2. Thinking too highly of himself
3. Breaking promises
4. No ideas/thoughts of his own
5. NATO

Female
1. Drama Queen
2. Posting every emo thoughts on FB, like anyone care
3. Seeking attention from men
4. Won't admit their mistakes
5. Overly concern about appearances

2011-12-06T10:11:00.001+08:00

Day 6 - Talk about the first time you met your friends

Actually I don't quite understand this topic. Which friend? So maybe I just list a few.

When we were young and playing catching downstairs at the void deck. There is this group of guys a few years older than us frequent the void deck as well. I cannot recall how we all become friends and played games together. But we as the younger ones were always full of awe. How they excel in school and games and became someone we looked up to.

First was catching, rounders, a game we call lelong or something like that then roller-blading. Nowadays everyone is busy with work and other stuffs but we still keep in touch once in awhile to catch up. Not easy to have friends who are about 2 decades old.

2011-12-05T16:19:00.000+08:00

Day 5 - Something that pisses you off

There are a lot of things that'll piss me off. I can go on and on. I think I am not an easy person to get along with.

Last minute work due to insufficient planning. If I have a meeting at 10am today, I'll print out the meeting materials the day before and not scrambling at 930am. Worse is you scramble and get me to prepare all the stuffs.

One of the quotes from a very respected person shared and is my favourite quote.

If you fail to plan, you plan to fail.

2011-12-04T16:18:00.000+08:00

Day 4 - What you wear to bed

T-shirt and shorts. Self explanatory.

2011-12-03T16:37:00.000+08:00

Day 3 - How have you changed in the past 2 years

Besides changing a few jobs, hopelessly addicted to RF and SMAP, I can't think of anything else I changed.

Even at this point, I don't seem to like my current work place very much. I can totally understand that there are definitely people you cannot like at any environment. But if I can work in a tough environment for 7 years I don't see why I cannot in other places.

Just hope 2012 will be a better year.

2011-12-02T16:01:00.000+08:00

Day 2 - The meaning behind your blog name

De Derrière is french for Back. This is inspired from the 1999 Japanese Drama, Overtime. Soichiro is a photographer and in love with Natsuki but Natsuki chose to leave with a doctor in the end. I love this drama even though the ending sucks.
Soichiro plans to publish a photo book with pictures of the back of people and I also happened to like the back view. Name of this book is De Derriere naturally.

This book is dedicated to my dearest friend, Natsuki...

2011-12-01T20:48:00.000+08:00

Day 1 - Name, age, birthday, hobbies, favorite music

Ok here goes. My name is Angie. Some like to call me Hello Kitty Ong or UbeRFan Ong because of my crazy obsession with Hello Kitty and Roger Federer. Pretending I did not see the age field and skipping to the birthday one. My birthday is on the 29th August.

I love to travel, shop, read, listening to music, watching Japanese dramas, collecting junk and making a mess in my room.

My favourite music is Pop! J-Pop, Mandarin Pop or Canto Pop! Just not very into Ang Moh music, no idea why.

Day 1 done!

2011-11-18T22:25:00.000+08:00

KIMURA TAKUYA's DRAMA LEGEND

I didn't write this, read this somewhere. Although the ratings now for Nankyoku Tairiku is not ideal but it cannot be all be 1 person's fault. But whenever Kimura Takuya is in a drama, they expect it to be like before.

Before getting into the main topic, I will first provide a brief introduction and background to the television ratings system in Japan.

Television Ratings System:

The ratings in Japan are measured according to regions: Kantou, Kansai, Nagoya etc. There is no overall ratings system that covers all regions in Japan. The ratings from the Kantou region are recorded as the main ratings measured because that is the busiest metropolition region with the highest population count.
When the ratings are measured and ranked, the television programs are usually divided into different categories: news, current affairs, sports, anime, drama etc.

Japanese Drama Ratings System:

Japanese dramas can be divided into different categories: trendy dramas (also known as "renzoku dorama" or "rendora"), NHK traditional dramas (also known as "taiga dorama") and NHK television serial novels (also known as "renzoku terebi shousetsu", "asadora" or "morning drama").Other categories of dramas can also include the one-shot dramas (also known as "tanpatsu dorama") that can be one-episode dramas or a drama on a single story spanning over 3 to 4 episodes and the NHK continuing late night dramas (also known as "NHK yoru no renzoku dorama" or "yorudora"), which follows a similar format to the NHK "asadora", except that it has generally fewer episodes.
When the ratings are recorded and ranked, NHK traditional dramas and NHK television serial novels are usually excluded from the rankings because they have different formats:

Trendy dramas - usually 8 to 12 episodes per series; changes according to the seasons
NHK traditional dramas - one series usually lasts the entire year
NHK television serial novels - one series usually lasts from half a year to the entire year

Trendy dramas - one episode is usually an estimated one hour excluding special episodes
NHK traditional dramas - one episode is usually an estimated one hour
NHK television serial novels - one episode is usually 15 minutes

Therefore, dramas like "Oshin" and "Gegege no Nyoubou", which are NHK television serial novels, and dramas like "Tenchijin" and "Shinsengumi", which are NHK traditional dramas, are excluded from general rankings.

What counts as "high ratings" for a drama?

During the Golden Age of Japanese dramas, the ratings expectation went something like this:
30% and above - very highly rated
20% to 30% - well rated
15% to 20% - average/mediocre
15% and below - poorly rated

The current ratings expectation for dramas however is:
20% and above - very highly rated
15% to 20% - well rated
10% to 15% - average/mediocre
10% and below - poorly rated

Now that we've set the stage, let's move on to the main topic at hand.

Every time the question of "what's so great about Kimura Takuya" pops up, seven out of ten times the answer would most likely be that the dramas he has starred in are some of the highest rated dramas in Japan. But, how do these dramas really rate and rank? To put things into perspective, here are some drama rating rankings in different contexts.

*All dramas starring Kimura-san are in bold.

The Top 5 All Time Dramas with the Highest Average Ratings (1977.9.26 - 2010.10.31):

1. Tsumiki Kuzushi (1983) *starring Takabe Tomoko - 35.7%
2. Hero (2001) - 34.3%
3. Beautiful Life (2000) - 32.3%
4. Love Generation (1997) - 30.8%
5. Good Luck!! (2003) - 30.6%

Here's a video clip showing the ratings ranking (along with a brief compilation of the history of Kimura-san's achievements):

Source: "Gyouretsu no Dekiru Horitsu Soudansho" (2010.12.12)
Can be found here: smappiesubs.livejournal.com/28575.html

The Top 10 All Time Highest Rated Single Episode in A Drama (1977.9.26 - 2009.1.30)

1. Tsumiki Kuzushi (1983) *starring Takabe Tomoko - 45.3%
2. Beautiful Life (2000) - 41.3%
3. Necchuu Jidai (1979) *starring Mizutani Yutaka - 40.0%
4. 3 Nen B Gumi Kinpachi Sensei (1980) *starring Sugita Kaoru - 39.9%
5. Hitotsu Yane no Shita (1993) *starring Eguchi Yousuke - 37.8%
6. Good Luck!! (2003) - 37.6%
7. Akai Gekiryuu (1977) *starring Utsui Ken - 37.2%
8. Ienakiko (1994) - 37.2%
9. Hero (2001) - 36.8% *Two episodes managed to achieve this rating: Episode 8 and Episode 11
10. 101 Kai Me no Proposal (1991) *starring Asano Atsuko - 36.7%
10. Long Vacation (1996) - 36.7%

Special mention: Of the all the dramas in the "Top 10 Highest Rated Single Episode in A Drama", the dramas from the year 2000 and after are all Kimura-san's ones.

Source: www.videor.co.jp/data/ratedata/junre/01drama.htm

The Top 10 All Time Fuji TV Getsuku or Gekku (Monday, 21:00) Dramas with the Highest Average Ratings (1987.4.6 - 2011.3.28):

ETA: This list was edited/updated as of 2011.5.9

1. Hero (2001, Winter) - 34.2% *First episode rating: 33.4%
2. Love Generation (1997, Autumn) - 30.7% *First episode rating: 31.3%
3. Long Vacation (1996, Spring) - 29.6% *First episode rating: 30.6%
4. Hitotsu Yane no Shita (1993, Spring) *starring Eguchi Yousuke - 28.2% *First episode rating: 19.5%
5. Asunaro Hakusho (1993, Autumn) *starring Ishida Hikari - 27.0% *First episode rating: 24.7%
6. Hitotsu Yane no Shita Season 2 (1997, Spring) *starring Eguchi Yousuke - 26.7% *First episode rating: 26.3%
7. Sugao no Mama de (1992, Spring) *starring Yasuda Narumi - 26.4% *First episode rating: 25.8%
7. Yamato Nadeshiko (2000, Autumn) *starring Matsushima Nanako - 26.4% *First episode rating: 24.9%
9. Kyoushi Binbin Monogatari Season 2 (1989, Spring) *starring Tahara Toshihiko - 26.0% *First episode rating: 23.1%
10. Pride (2004, Winter) - 25.2% *First episode rating: 28.0%

Special mention: A research conducted in 2007 showed that the average ratings for all Getsuku dramas pre-Kimura Takuya era was 19.6%. The average ratings of the Getsuku dramas that Kimura-san starred in was 27.5%.

NOTE:

(1) The Fuji TV Getsuku or Gekku time slot, which is the Monday 9.00pm - 10.00pm time slot, is considered to be the most prestigious time slot for Fuji TV dramas.

(2) Although Kimura-san wasn't the star in "Asunaro Hakusho", it was this drama that catapulted him into the spotlight.

Source: http://ja.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E3%83%95%E3%82%B8%E3%83%86%E3%83%AC%E3%83%93%E6%9C%88%E6%9B%9C9%E6%99%82%E6%9E%A0%E3%81%AE%E9%80%A3%E7%B6%9A%E3%83%89%E3%83%A9%E3%83%9E

The Top 10 All Time TBS Nichiyou Gekijou (Sunday, 21:00) Dramas with the Highest Average Ratings (1993.4 - 2010.1):

1. Beautiful Life (2000, Winter) - 32.3% *First episode rating: 31.8%
2. Good Luck!! (2003, Winter) - 30.6% *First episode rating: 31.6%
3. Karei Naru Ichizoku (2007, Winter) - 24.4% *First episode rating: 27.7% (In the Kansai region, the average ratings for the drama was 30.4% and the first episode rating was 30.5%)
4. Oyajii (2000, Autumn) *starring Tamura Masakazu - 24.2% *First episode rating: 21.7%
5. Love Story (2001, Spring) *starring Nakayama Miho - 21.0% *First episode rating: 24.3%
6. Sweet Home (1994, Winter) *starring Fuse Hiroshi - 20.4%
7. Kamisan no Waruguchi Season 2 (1995, Winter) *starring Tamura Masakazu - 20.3%
8. Shiroi Kage (2001, Winter) *starring Nakai Masahiro - 20.2% *First episode rating: 23.8%
9. Kamisan no Waruguchi Season 1 (1993, Autumn) *starring Tamura Masakazu - 19.9%
10. Sunao no Utsuwa (2004, Winter) *starring Nakai Masahiro - 19.6% *First episode rating: 26.3%

NOTE:

(1) The TBS Nichiyou Gekijou time slot, which is the Sunday 9.00pm to 10.00pm time slot, is considered to be the most prestigious time slot for TBS dramas.

(2) "Karei Naru Ichizoku" achieved much higher ratings in the Kansai region because it was a drama set in the Kansai region.

Source: ja.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E6%97%A5%E6%9B%9C%E5%8A%87%E5%A0%B4

In this video compiled by fan, she looked at the average ratings for the Top 30 dramas in which a Johnny's member plays a starring role. Therefore, a drama like "Hana Yori Dango" is not listed because the star of the show was Inoue Mao and not Arashi's Matsumoto Jun and in "Gokusen", Nakama Yukie was the star of the show:

In summary, the Top 10 are:

1. Hero (2001) - 34.2%
2. Beautiful Life (2000) - 32.3%
3. Love Generation (1997) - 30.7%
4. Good Luck!! (2003) - 30.6%
5. Long Vacation (1997) - 29.6%
6. Pride (2004) - 25.2%
7. Karei Naru Ichizoku (2007) - 23.9%
8. Kindaichi Shounen no Jikenbou Season 1 (1995) *starring Kinki Kids' Doumoto Tsuyoshi
9. Saiyuuki (2006) - 23.2% *starring SMAP's Katori Shingo
10. Engine (2005) - 22.6%

2011-11-14T22:41:00.001+08:00

Just read this article about shoes. In green are my replies.

To be honest, you really only NEED five pairs of shoes:

- Pair of Tennis Shoes/sneakers
- Pair of Black pumps
- Pair of Sandals (with a strap that strategically covers your “problem” toe)
- Pair of Black or Brown boots (midcalf to knee high that you could wear in the snow or rain and still look fabulous)
- Pair of Flats(or shoe with a slight heel if flats are uncomfortable)

Ok I have a pair of Tennis shoes, Black Heels, Too many sandals, Many boots too, and shoes with slight heels.

Obviously most of us aren’t going to have just 5 pairs of shoes in our closet.. so here’s some other shoes you should have as “shoe wardrobe stretchers”:

- Pair of Sexy Shoes (i.e stilletos, peep toe, red patent leather, whatever)
- Pair of Wellies or Snow Boots (cause let’s face, sometimes it’s just too cold (or rainy) to be cute
- Pair of cheap Trendy Shoes (bright neon, extra pointed, jelly, you get the picture)
- Second Pair of Boots (especially if you live in the midwest, northeast or northwest)
- Pair of Brown Heels
- Pair of Trendy Sneakers (so you can look cute while you shop)
- Pair (or two) of Flip-flops ( they’re just so practical)

I think I have sexy heels, snow boots not necessary in this kind of weather (don't want to be labelled as ah siao), cheap trendy shoes checked, boots checked, sneakers checked (but I never wear them), too many flip flops.

I am definitely over-stocked but I often complained I have no shoes to wear because I always cannot bear to wear new shoes!

2011-11-13T19:49:00.001+08:00

Happy Birthday to the ever gorgeous Kimura Takuya!

2011-11-04T14:15:00.006+08:00

Code Blue

Bought this set of dramas quite a while back but only managed to start this last weekend. Yamashita Tomohisa, Aragaki Yui, Toda Erika and Asari Yosuke as flight doctor in training for the Emergency Department. This group of doctors are fellows trying to graduate from the AST (Advanced Specialist Training). Because I worked in a hospital before and I can understand some terms. Though we don't call the doctors who are doing AST, fellows here.

Tried googling for Doctor Heli to see what's the usage like in real life but think it is underused based on an abstract I read online. In the drama, they have like 2 flights per day and only before sunset.

There are total 23 episodes for this drama, 11 for Code Blue, 1 special episode and another 11 for Season 2. Some accidents are just too scary. There are no miracles, doctors just are not able to save everyone. The EMS (Emergency Medical Services) team really can work night and day without any rest in Japan. I asked Prof Seow when we were doing ICEM, what is the difference between the EMS in Singapore and Japan. She told me in Singapore, emergency cases are sent to the nearest hospital whereas in Japan, they called up all the hospitals in the vicinity to check if they are able to take in the patient. And there are cases where the patient can just die in the ambulance as no hospital is available to take in the patient.

In the drama, the team on duty of heli usually leaves the hospital within 3 minutes. It is a touching drama. The doctors worked so hard and tried to save everyone even in train and plane disasters.

If comparing this Kyumei Byoto 24 Ji, I prefer the latter. But Code Blue is a nice drama too! You'll learn about some diseases you have never heard before and how the EMS department works. I miss doing the medical conferences a little!

I still don't know why Aizawa chose to be in Neuro Surgery after his AST.

2011-10-26T18:37:00.001+08:00

Life has been too bored and therefore a new challenge. Stay tuned...

Back To Basics Challenge

The challenges here sounds rather basic but then if you don't have a good foundation, how can you continue to rise up?

Name, age, birthday, hobbies, favorite music
The meaning behind your blog name.
How have you changed in the past 2 years.
What you wear to bed.
Something that pisses you off.
Talk about the first time you met your friends.
Five things that irritate you about the same sex? Opposite sex?
Screenshot your desktop.
Your opinion on cheating on people.
Your favorite song and why it’s your favorite song.
The best thing to happen to you this week.
Ten things about you that people wouldn’t expect.
What kind of person attracts you.
Five things you want to say to five people.
Something you hate.
Something you love.
The person you like and why you like them.
Something you collect.
Favourite subject in class.
Quickly jot down four verbs, four adjectives, and four nouns. Write a poem using all 12 words.
Write a poem where each line starts with a letter from your first name (an acrostic). It can be about anything, but it should not be about you or your name.
The last fight or argument you had.
Your family.
The nicest thing you’ve ever done.
Something you’re really excited for.
Three pictures of yourself.
Something you’re worrying about.
Two good things that happened recently.
Three things you want to change about yourself.
How you’ve changed this month
Guest Post - if you are a psychologist, diagnose the blog owner

2011-10-23T20:12:00.003+08:00

Wagaya no Rekishi

Usually I don't watch older era dramas but can't resist watching Shibasaki Kou. Fuji TV's 50th year anniversary drama.

A story after the World War 2, revolving around the Yame family. A lot of actors and actresses are involved in this special drama. I find the story quite interesting and I even teared at 2 parts. Though not particularly sad but just felt like crying. Weird thing is my dad is sitting beside me while I was crying.

How Masako thinks for the family is really inspiring.

2011-10-16T17:47:00.000+08:00

I get very drained listening to some individuals speak about their life. As friends, I don't mind lending a listening ear whenever one needs it but an over dosage really irritates the hell out of me. If you are genuine troubled by the issues and needed advise I am glad to help. But if you already blocked out the alternatives besides the one you set you are just wasting my bloody time. You only wanted assurance that you are doing the right thing. And that your need for constant assurance is wasting everyone's time. We can all be doing things we love instead of listening to you gripe like a broken record over and over again. And any new developments, you'd call and ask for advise. You only have to answer to yourself not us. And since whatever I said does not get into your head why do you still call me so regularly?

I also think that your actions are juvenile. By constantly updating your FB status to make people guilty are just childish. Though I am hardly any matured adult myself but I do know what I want and I do have my own problems even if I don't spell it all out.

Conversations are 50% talking and 50% listening. The fact that you don't listen to me made me feel that you only want to talk and not listen. When I said I will be busy this whole week on Monday and you dared to ask me out for coffee again on Wednesday just shows how much you listened to me. So don't blame me not answering or replying to you henceforth.

2011-10-16T17:17:00.003+08:00

Tokyo DOGS

I am finally watching the new dramas instead of re-watching the old ones over and over again. Just watched Tokyo Dogs starring Oguri Shun and Mizushima Hiro.

The synopsis from Wiki - Takakura So witnessed his father's murder at a young age. Pledging to catch the killer, he grows up to become an elite cop in New York City, where the criminal lives. His character is cool-headed and disciplined, yet adapts well. Because of major drug dealings, he gets sent to Tokyo to conduct a joint investigation with the Japanese police. There, he gets teamed up with, Kudo Maruo, a detective from a special investigative division. Kudo is a hot-blooded fighting expert due to his earlier days as a delinquent, but he makes a strong impression with his stylish appearance and is always interested in going on group dates. His personality, interests, and investigation methods are completely mismatched with Takakura's, but the two somehow work together to crack the case they've been given.

I like to watch to watch this genre of dramas. The baddie of the drama is again Nakamura Toru whose face is only shown at the last 2 episodes. His looks really fits any baddie role. I also like the theme song by EXILE!

2011-10-16T16:56:00.005+08:00

The events that have been keeping me very busy are finally over. Am very glad that that we managed to run it despite taking it over with only 1.5 months prep time. If not for Mark, I would not have managed it because NATO is plain useless.

Council was pleased with the evening despite some small hiccups. The charming emcee even announced on stage that we did a great job during toasting. Tiring but I really enjoyed doing it just that the environment and people in the current organisation are not ideal.

Initially I thought the few of us who joined together can help one another. But recently I discovered no, it does not work this way for some of them. Because they ran successful events, they do not wish to see others succeed. They also helped but very unwillingly thinking that while I was busy you did not help and now why am I helping you? Poor Crystal get bombarded for nothing. She is new to the industry and no one really guided her on things. She did not show her anxiety doesn't mean that she is not worried and concern about the event. If the 2 events date doesn't clash, I can help her with her preparation, but too bad I am already maxed out.

One council asked the director of a govt organisation to hire me because I am a good organiser. I am so touched by his statement. All of them are big bosses in their respective companies but they really appreciate our work even though they paid for it whereas my own boss do not even thank us. I really didn't do much extra stuffs but people always appreciate what I do. According to Ana, maybe others cannot even do the ordinary stuffs well and therefore I am extraordinary? :)

Time to look for some other place where they appreciate their staff?

2011-10-12T22:48:00.002+08:00

A: What do you call the thing in the hotel where you slot the card to on trigger the electricity in the room?

Me: Wahahha. Let me Google.

A: Okie.

Me: Key Card Reader

A: Is it the door one?

Me: No the electricity one.

A: Left my ezylink card when checkout. lol

Me: lol. When? Bkk?

A: Ya

Me: Now then recall?

A: No la, noticed already but haven't email.

Me: So need to go back and take?

A: Siao meh? Send email ask them to check and mail back lo.

Me: Excuse to go again mah. You say never buy anything.

A: U pay for air ticket I go lo.

Me: I kena toto I buy you air ticket to Bkk and Tokyo.

He also know I don't buy toto so when can I buy him a ticket to Bkk and Tokyo.

2011-10-11T22:32:00.002+08:00

I recall looking for CDs in HMV or Tower Records in Tokyo. Naturally I will look for SMAP first. Besides the latest album which is on the promotion racks, I went to search on the SU rack. Weirdly after searching the entire SU rack, I cannot find SMAP's albums.

Then I turned and turned around the 6 - 7 levels of Tower Records and found that all artistes under Johnny's Entertainment are under a section on it's own. Johnny's Entertainment is really one of the very top in Japan.

Recently Johnny Kitagawa also nabs 2 awards in the Guinness World of Records for producing the most singles and most concerts.

How I wish I can watch one of the concerts.

2011-10-09T10:27:00.004+08:00

Kiina

Finished this in a day. The beauty about Japanese dramas is that majority of them are short and sweet unless it's some special dramas which will be more than 30 episodes otherwise generally it's about 10 - 12 episodes.

Kanno Miho as a detective in this a special unit which deals with unusual cases. Her perseverance and her analytical ability solves many mysteries. Her most admirable ability is speed read. She works like a scanner, just have to flip the pages to read the whole book and whatever she sees she remembers. How I wish I can be like that too.

2011-09-20T21:48:00.002+08:00

Recently I have a lot of inspiration to write.

While waiting for my driver to pick me up after work today, I suddenly have this thought.

My alarms are never set to round figures, it has always been weird numbers. For example, 6.59, 7.14, 8.24. I never set it to 7.00, 7.30.

So my thought is this, I should totally stay in Japan. Their trains, buses, TV programmes are all like that too. The programme can start at 9.54 and the buses can be at the station 10.03.

So what am I still doing here?

I don't have an attitude, I have a personality you can't handle...

2011-09-19T21:56:00.006+08:00

3 piece suit looks very good on people with at least 1.8m frame, some exceptions of course.
I happened to like this style of dressing very much!

Some eye candies! My taste naturally always tend to be Japanese.

Takenouchi Yutaka in D'urban

Roger Federer's wedding! He looks good in anything!

Hyun Bin in Secret Garden

Brad Pitt (Photo courtesy of Adi)

David Beckham (Photo courtesy of Adi)

Kimura Takuya in Beijing

Fukuyama Masaharu in Galileo!

2011-09-14T12:04:00.002+08:00

BOSS 2

Amami Yuki and Yutaka Takenouchi.

The ending is always unexpected like BOSS. Amami Yuki is a smart detective who is able to analyse the case in every angle in the special crimes unit revives by Yutaka Takenouchi. He appears to be only interested in socialising but is a smart planner too. Too gorgeous! Be it a nerd or a flirty character he plays them well! I am so biased I know.

The computer genius, the uncle, the handsome but shy detective, the gay detective and the spy is such a good laugh everytime.

Go watch it!

2011-09-13T22:24:00.001+08:00

Me: I don't need to have expensive stuffs to make me happy.

A: for example what cheap stuffs you like?

Me: pocky strawberry

A: you like bags and pocky strawberry. So your present next year will be pocky strawberry bag.

Me: Nooooooooooo

Published with Blogger-droid v1.6.8

2011-09-07T19:48:00.003+08:00

This is all about my recent trip to Japan. Warning, it’s going to be very long!

This is a very much anticipated trip. Planned for ages and it finally happened. Haven't been to Tokyo for so long and it’s either I have a very good memory or the place didn’t change much. The Indian shop near the hotel is still operating and I very much remembered which shops are situated where. This doesn't seem like a holiday because I feel so at home!

I simply love this country. From the culture to the people, from the fashion to the music, from the food to the TV programmes!

The country is famous for its vending machines. There is 1 vending machine every few steps you walk. In the hotel, on the streets, in shopping malls, in train stations and even on train platforms. Basically everywhere. This is ideal for me because I like to have cold drinks every time! You can eat and drink on the trains too. But very commendable is people don't litter here. In fact they are very serious about recycling. You can see recycling bins everywhere separating combustible and non combustible rubbish.

Even buying food you buy a ticket via a vending machine too as some smaller stores only have 1 or 2 people manning it and by having a vending machine they save the trouble of collecting payment.

There can be many trains departing for different locations from the same platform. But there is a good system in place and just have to follow the timetables and indicators to get to the right platform. The timetable is very accurate, if it says the train will be there at 9.26am, it'll be there 9.26am. There are also indicators on the car no and which exits at various stations. Because there are too many exits at bigger stations and can be rather confusing especially Shinjuku.

People clear their own utensils to the cleaning stations. This is a very good practice.

Because of the current situation in Fukushima, there are a lot of power saving initiatives in the country. In the hotel, the fridge is turned off and aircon set at 28 degrees. For some malls, auto doors are deactivated and 1 door is kept open and temperature are high in the malls. You cannot expect to feel cool when you enter the malls and this is not so ideal for summer. Some escalators are turned off to save power.

Staffs at the shops are super friendly and customer focused. They return your change in notes then coins. They then pack the items in the bags and fold in the tape so you can open it easily later. When you buy a drink and wants to drink it immediately the staff will get a straw and poke it in the drink for you!

They are not at all tired of repeating welcome and thank you over and over again! Service is superb!

Kawaii is one word I heard a lot especially in shops.

Day 1 -

Flight from SIN to PVG was good. I had the seat beside the emergency exit and had plenty of room. But didn't have a good sleep. The transit at PVG is stupid. By right there shouldn't be a need for exiting and entering again as I remembered from my previous transit. But then we were made to go through the immigration.

Flight wasn't delayed but then it just wasn't taken off in time but I couldn't be sure because I felt asleep as soon as I took my seat.

Finally at Narita. First time I took a train from the airport to town. I usually take the limo bus but decided to try out the NEX since it is faster and stops at Ikebukuro too.

Off to Asakusa to watch fireworks! Initially I was quite worried as I did not know which spots should I be at to watch the fireworks but it proved that my worries were uncalled for. It was super crowded at the Ueno station with people in Yukata and super nice hairdo! I just had to follow them to get to the venue. Though crowded, the people are disciplined and organised. With the directions from the station staffs everyone just waited patiently for the queue to get on the platform. I didn't expect to be squeezing with so many people. But it was a great experience. Despite being summer, it is like 20 over degrees at night, it's like air conditioned outdoors!

The fireworks were very pretty! I couldn't time to take good pictures so I took a lot of videos instead. Because of the huge crowd, we had to keep walking forward. It's like walking a few km with 90,000 people. Ok maybe 80,000, 10,000 already chopped good seats and they were just sitting down with beer and yakisoba admiring the fireworks. It lasted for about 1.5hrs but I didn't watch it until the very end because of the fear of unable to get on the train.

SmaStation is on TV and Shingo and Goro were on it! Their latest album SMAP AID tops the Oricon chart!

Pretty much sums up day and I was dead beat.

Day 2 -

Early day. Left the hotel at 7 to Shinjuku for the tour to Yamanashi. First stop - picking of grapes and eat all you can. I for one cannot eat like so many in such a short time unless it's something I really like to eat. I cut 1 bunch and almost cannot finish already.

Then from the farm went to see the souvenirs they have and the owners began chatting with me and said I speak very well which I don't think so unless it's something really basic. Love the blue sky here in Yamanashi.

Next stop is the ice hole which is only 0 degrees. Because it is the summer holidays, we had to queue for a while to explore the cave. It is all stairs down and the temperature is natural. Great time to visit in summer. So if it is all stairs down, naturally it is all stairs up too.

Weather is good but didn't manage to see Mount Fuji. Was a pity.

Lunch was mochi nabe! Didn't try the savoury mochi before but it tasted great!

Next was Shiraito Falls and I thought this is the same one which I planned to visit. I asked the tour attendant and she said a lot of the attractions are of the same name and luckily I checked otherwise I would have thought it is the same one. There are a lot of souvenirs in Hello Kitty forms. Toooooo cute to pass but I think I had that little bit of self restraint sometimes.

Last stop is the highlight - the Gotemba Premium Outlets. As the name tells the story, this is a shopping paradise with over 200 brands. I had to applaud myself because I did NOT buy anything.

We were supposed to be back at Shinjuku around 8pm but there were a few jams here and there and in the end when we reached Shinjuku its like 1115pm. Luckily there is also a stop at Ikebukuro and it saves me the trouble of having to catch the train back.

Long day and early start tomorrow too.

Day 3 -

I loved the breakfast in the hotel. Onigiri and miso soup. Though there are no fillings in the onigiri but the seasonings are very tasty!

Travel about 1 hr to Tama Centre, home of Hello Kitty. The park is scheduled to open at 945am but when I was there at 930am there is already a queue forming to get in. I was considered early and I happened to be at the right place and took a picture with Hello Kitty and hugs too!

Sanrio Puroland has something special for birthdays. There are special cards and performances for birthdays.

Surprisingly I didn't buy a lot of things here.

I then watched the Magical land of Oz in the Marchen theatre. Because it is targeted for children and I didn't find it hard to understand. It is like a dream come true!

Had lunch at the bazaar, my favourite Japanese curry rice! Then walked and shopped around the park a little and head to Shinjuku.

Everything is so familiar, the Krispy Kreme shop in front of Times Square and the places I been from the previous trips.

Can see SMAP's new album ads almost everywhere!

Back to the hotel to place my loot before heading out for dinner. Shops generally close early at 8 or 9pm. Craving to have some tempura but couldn't find any near the hotel or nearby. In the end I settled for KFC as I need to rush back to watch SMAP X SMAP! I love the TV programmes.If only I can watch that every Monday.

AKB48 was on Bistro SMAP. While Nakai kun was asking how come they don't go out like friends after work and in the end the question got redirected back to SMAP. And what Nakai kun answered was so cute.

N: We are not friends.

All paused.

N: We are family.

The look on Shingo's face is so funny.

What a great birthday I had!

Day 4 -

Meiji Jingu. The very famous shrine but I have not been there even once. Decided to visit this trip and it is well worth it. The place is huge! The Emperor Meiji was especially fond of composing poems and the poem I got from the shrine is this.

Some reach their goals quickly, others take longer. But let your heart only be sincere and you will not fail in the end to achieve success.

Only a short walk to Takeshita Dori. Another of my favourite shopping spot.

Spent a few hours here and then walk towards Shibuya. Had ramen for lunch and it is superb!

Finally saw Hachicko the loyal dog!

Because this is at Shibuya station and a meeting place for all and the dog is always blocked by people. But I finally saw it this time! Shopped at the 4 storeies H&M at Shibuya. It is now not crowded as when it just opened.

Next stop, Odaiba!

Wanted to go to Fuji Terebi and they have this huge carnival event and the place is swamped with people. The summer holidays really is a great time to see many events and happenings in Tokyo. From Odaiba can see the Rainbow bridge, Tokyo Tower and the new Sky Tree! Admiring the landscape from the cafe in Odaiba with my favourite pumpkin croquette is such a joy!

Took a boat ride to Hinode pier and back to main land admiring the beautiful scenery.

Walked a lot these few days and my legs are aching.

Day 5 -

Very lazy to wake up early so delayed my outing a little. Set off at 10am to Asakusa!

The Asakusa Kannon temple is a place I definitely will visit when I am in Tokyo. As usual I will get a lot. Got number 21 this time which is lucky!

Nakamise dori is also a great shopping spot for souvenirs. From here can see the Sky Tree and the Asahi Beer Building. Lunch is what I have been craving for Tempura!

Ueno is next. Very happy to buy that bag from Samantha Thavasa!

Decided to go to Akihabara to check out electric products since Akihabara is an electric town. I so feel that I am not suited for this place. A lot of girls dressed up in costumes giving out pamplets about games and such. Also this place is mostly patronised by men.

Then to Tokyo Dome to check out the place too. How I wish I can watch a concert in Tokyo Dome.

Back to the hotel to place my loot before going out for dinner. And experienced the 2nd earthquake of my life. Though it's not a big scale one but I just cannot get used to the building started moving.

After experiencing it, I went out to find dinner at Sunshine City. Can't decide where to eat until the word kare- catches my eye! Curry it is then! I love Japanese curry a lot. Though my friends cannot fathom why I like it and it's not even spicy.

Ikebukuro is one of the place I like to shop as well. I always stay in this place. Maybe too used to the place and this is the best place to stay and I am familiar thus always the choice when I am travelling alone.

Off to Karuizawa in Nagano tomorrow.

Day 6 –

The Shinkansen is amazing. The system in Japan is very well run. Even though there are several trains departing to different places from 1 platform, it is easy to navigate even for people who does not understand Japanese and not used to it.

I sleep everytime I am on a moving device. On the train, on the plane, on the bus and as usual I fell asleep on the Shinkansen.

Because of typhoon no 12, it is raining on and off in Tokyo and the same for Nagano. But the kind of rain is not what we usually experienced in Singapore. It is raining but even without an umbrella, we do not get wet too much.

First stop, Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza. This is also the paradise to shop for branded goods. All outlets are situated here. Next up Kyu Karuizawa, known as Ginza of Karuizawa. This is a whole long stretch of shops selling all kinds of souvenirs especially Karuizawa's famous jams!

It is stated on the travel sites there is a hiking trail from Kyu Karuizawa to the famous Shiraito Falls. On the map, it shows Kyu Karuizawa is like so near the train station but I actually walked like a good 30 mins to reach. I cannot imagine walking to Shiraito Falls. I decide to see what other means can I get to the falls until I saw a bus stop and the next bus is arriving in like 5 mins! How lucky! The bus goes up a slope like travelling to Genting and took like 20 mins. I cannot imagine how long I'll take to walk especially in the drizzle.

Just embracing the nature. Soaking in the good air and ambience of this beautiful place.

Went to find dinner at the shopping plaza as the place gets really dark after 6pm. Not really hungry so just a pumpkin croquette does the job.

Great thing that the hotel has free in room internet at least I won't get too bored. My poor feet is aching a lot from all the intense walking.

Day 7 -

Had breakfast by the park beside Ohga Hall. This is one of the places where Buzzer Beat was filmed in Karuizawa.

Took a bus to Tokyo this time. Because it is the summer holidays, it took a while to get through the jams. I then decided to just walk around Ikebukuro. Found the katsu-don place I had 6 years ago and it is still yummy! And then it's just shop, shop and shop in Ikebukuro!

The TV is showing a lot on the IAAF Track and Field Championships and I enjoyed watching a lot and cheering for the Japanese athletes!

Day 8 -

Back to Harajuku and Shibuya. Had the tasty crepe and saw a Brazilian carnival happening beside the Yoyogi Stadium! This trip is so lucky to see so many things!

I was debating to buy this bag or not and seeked Ana's advice. And she said no! So I heeded her advise and not buy it!

So wanted to just stay here.

Day 9 -

Early in the morning at 600am I was awoken by the bed shaking. Again before realising it is an earthquake, I thought it is ghost shaking the bed. Then thinking oh no and immediately reached out for the remote for news. And indeed it is an earthquake in Chiba. 2nd this trip and 3rd time this life.
Checked out and again walked around the area until it is time to go to the airport.

Firstly the plane was delayed for 2.5hrs so I thought ok I should have still enough time for the connecting flight. But then until I saw the flight from Shanghai will reach Narita at 8.25pm, I knew I had some trouble connecting the flight. Boarding time changed to 9pm and I have 30 mins to catch my next flight if the flights arrives on time. In the end I reached the airport with like less than 30 mins and I have to again clear immigration and walked super far to the plane. I feel so embarrassed when I walked into the plane with like the entire flight of people waiting for me. I then have this question in my head, will my checked in luggage made it on the flight too?

The answer is no. I then have no idea if it is going to appear at all. But the relief came at 6pm from Changi airport that my luggage has arrived and will be delivered me by 9pm tonight! So happy!

This is a fruitful trip and I enjoyed it very much! One of the best birthdays I have. I may be alone but I am not at all lonely!

2011-08-18T22:14:00.002+08:00

Setting: Looks like it's in a classroom

Only seat on the floor beside him
Naturally I took it and our knees touched
He moved away
I thought he hated me
But no, he was trying to hear better
He moved back
Knees touched
He began chatting incessantly
Which never happens in real life
Laughing happily

That was my sweet sweet dream...

2011-08-15T00:46:00.003+08:00

Went to watch the Lion King Musical tonight with Gwean.

The show is simply awesome! The animals strolled to the stage just beside us! Imagine elephants, hyenas and birds flying above your head! Even though we got the $88 tickets but we can see the stage very clearly too!

I like the voice of Scar. The backdrop and props were amazing! Am still thinking about the songs and casts!

The lines of Timon were amended slightly to our local context. He said Thank you 谢谢你 and please applaud 掌声鼓励鼓励 in Mandarin and at one point he used la. There is even a line on HDB upgrade!

Very entertaining show indeed!

2011-08-13T23:29:00.000+08:00

Actually people only like to watch happy endings and basically all things happy. And when dramas often show how the bad overpower the good, the audience will then also feel unhappy and if possible fast forward the scenes to a happy one instead. So no one likes watching sad and depressing scenes, so why have them?

I was telling my mom, why can't a show just have all happy moments instead of the ups and downs since no one like it anyway.

She only replied a mere SIAO.

2011-08-08T00:00:00.001+08:00

8th August 1981,
A Champion was born.
67 Singles Titles he won,
At 30 and Strong!
UberRFan comes along,
And sing him a birthday song!

HAPPY 30th BIRTHDAY ROGER!!

2011-08-07T20:40:00.001+08:00

Recently I watched Nagareboshi which means Shooting Star. Starring my all time favourite Takenouchi Yutaka as Okada Kengo and Ueto Aya as Makihara Risa.

Kengo is like a stone, honest and down to earth but to save his sister he has to find someone to donate part of her liver. Risa is working very hard to pay off her brother's debt and one day decided to commit suicide to end her misery.

Kengo saw Risa standing on the railway track and rescued her just as the train approaches. And then their romance begins with jelly fishes!

Enjoyed watching the show and love the soundtrack!

2011-07-08T22:07:00.001+08:00

A Celebrity A Day ~ Day 99 (Athletes)

Roger Federer

Need I say anymore? All I can say is to see him lift a 17th Grand Slam trophy! Go Roger! Win Wimbledon!!

2011-07-07T23:03:00.000+08:00

A Celebrity A Day ~ Day 98 (Athletes)

Michael Phelps

My favourite sport to watch at the Olympics is definitely swimming. Even tennis cannot compete. Guess it's the speed and the excitement of watching the athletes break the records. My favourite is none other than Michael Phelps. Already he had a great record in Athens before coming to Beijing. 8 Gold medals and broken 7 world records and 1 Olympic record are truly outstanding. Looking forward to see the 27 year old (in 2012 London)

2011-07-06T22:31:00.000+08:00

A Celebrity A Day ~ Day 97

He looks good even as a woman!

Kimura Takuya 木村拓哉

Everyone who knows me well would know that I am crazy about him. He is gorgeous!! Just love everything about him. I think I talked about him a lot in the previous posts. Video of him performing solo in one of the Smap's concert.

2011-07-05T21:54:00.000+08:00

A Celebrity A Day ~ Day 96

Katori Shingo 香取慎吾

Youngest member in the group. The sunshine, his bright smile and he seemed to be the most real one on the screen. He speaks the best English and hosted an English oriented TV show. He also seemed to be the only one who can remember the Chinese lyrics of Sekai Ni Hitotsu Dake no Hana based on the videos I watched. He is the only one who does not need to have a paper in front of him when singing to the Chinese Premier.

I love this song Everybody featuring Koda Kumi!

2011-07-04T21:37:00.000+08:00

A Celebrity A Day ~ Day 95

Kusanagi Tsuyoshi 草彅剛

He can speak Korean fluently and can do multiple somersaults! One of the most well-rounded and multi-talented members of SMAP, Tsuyoshi stands out for making himself known for more than just a chiseled face and soft-soothing voice.

My dad loves to watch him in Food Fight and always say 大胃王 whenever he sees me watching SMAP.

2011-07-03T21:29:00.000+08:00

A Celebrity A Day ~ Day 94

Inagaki Goro 稲垣吾郎

Goro was suspended from activities in 2001 and SMAP still resumed their activities including concerts with just 4 of them. From 5 - 4, it is just not the same. Katsuyuki Mori was one of the members however left around 1996 to pursue his career in bike racing instead. From then on, SMAP has always been 5 members.

Goro’s singing is also further proof that the members of SMAP support each other’s work, willingly or otherwise. He was the only member without a planned drama in 2003/2004 and so he lent his talents to Tsuyoshi’s drama Boku to Kanojyo to Kanojyo no Ikiru Michi literally 'The Way She, Her and I Live’ but has been shortened to ‘The Way We Live’.(Note: Can Tsuyoshi ever get out of drama with titles like this?). Under his solo artist label &G, pronounced ‘anjee’, the two SMAP members made both the drama and single Wonderful Life huge hits with fans.

2011-07-02T20:50:00.002+08:00

A Celebrity A Day ~ Day 93

Masahiro Nakai 中居正広

Leader of SMAP! He is an excellent host! He has hosted the NHK NYE music show 紅白歌合戦 several times now. Also their weekly show SMAP X SMAP. SMAP always has this 2nd discs on their album where each of the members will sing solo. Nakai-kun has this song, Toilet Paper Man. It is often said that during Nakai's solo performance a lot of audience will visit the toilet at this time. He also informed the audience during his solo performance that this is the lousiest time to visit because it'll be jam packed. But I see that hardly anyone leaves their seat during his performance though it is often said that Nakai-kun can't sing.

2011-07-01T20:37:00.000+08:00

A Celebrity A Day ~ Day 92

Takenouchi Yutaka 竹野内豊

This is the bio from Drama Wiki - Yutaka Takenouchi is a very popular sitcom actor in Japan. He is regarded as one of the most handsome celebrities in the country. He started his career by winning a modeling competition. Starting from 1989, he has been in numerous magazines and TV commercials. Later he became a sitcom actor and has starred in many popular sitcom series. His first dramatic role in Hoshi no Kinka bought him popular attention and subsequent roles in Long Vacation and Beach Boys rocketed him to stardom. The internet love story With Love was his first major lead role.

Looks are absolutely stunning. Acting skills are superb. He has this very deep voice which is so mesmerising.

2011-06-30T20:23:00.001+08:00

A Celebrity A Day ~ Day 91

Tamaki Hiroshi 玉木宏

I like the Nodame Cantabile dramas and movies very much. He is a talented musician and can play the piano and violin very well but his dream is to be a conductor! The dramas and movies brought us to Paris, Vienna and Prague.

2011-06-29T20:16:00.001+08:00

A Celebrity A Day ~ Day 90

Sorimachi Takashi 反町隆史

One of the first Japanese artiste I know. Since Virgin Road, Overtime, Beach Boys, GTO, Hotman. I always like him.

2011-06-28T20:02:00.000+08:00

A Celebrity A Day ~ Day 89

Kaneshiro Takeshi 金城武

His only 3 Japanese dramas as a leading actor, I have watched all. Golden Bowl, Nisennen no Koi, Kamisama Mou Sukoshi Dake. He has 2 recent Japanese movies in 2008, Grim Reaper and K20, loved it! He recently concentrated his career in making other Asian movies, mostly costume films. Don't think can find that many people with his genes to look this good!

2011-06-27T19:50:00.000+08:00

A Celebrity A Day ~ Day 88

Fukuyama Masaharu 福山雅治

Dramas, movies, songs, he is a talented artiste. Often voted as the most eligible bachelor in Japan, his popularity just keep rising! I can watch Bijo Ka Yajuu and Galileo over and over again without getting bored.

2011-06-26T19:36:00.000+08:00

A Celebrity A Day ~ Day 87

Mizushima Hiro 水嶋ヒロ

He lived in Switzerland for 6 years and speak fluent English. My favourite drama would be Meichan's no Shitsuji, where he acts as a butler for a famous girl's school. 'Kashikomarimashita, かしこまりました' is what the butler always say to the master. 　

2011-06-25T19:25:00.000+08:00

A Celebrity A Day ~ Day 86

Narimiya Hiroki 成宮寛貴

Nana, Orange Days, Hachimitsu to Clover, Be With You, be it as a playboy or a loving dad, he acted well.

2011-06-24T19:17:00.000+08:00

A Celebrity A Day ~ Day 85

Toshinobu Kubota 久保田利伸

Lalala Love Song from 1996 to the most recent Love Rain, I love his songs.

2011-06-23T18:16:00.000+08:00

A Celebrity A Day ~ Day 84

Shibasaki Kou 柴咲コウ

Probably the last female in my list of favourite celebs. Love her dramas, movies and songs!

2011-06-22T17:56:00.000+08:00

A Celebrity A Day ~ Day 83

Matsushima Nanako 松嶋菜々子

Just simply like her a lot. GTO, Bijo Ka Yajuu, Kyumei Byoto 24Ji, Majo no Joken, Koori no Sekai... Even my dad knew that I kept re-watching Bijo Ka Yajuu. She also has an admirable husband, Sorimachi Takashi.

2011-06-21T21:44:00.001+08:00

A Celebrity A Day ~ Day 82

Jackie Lui 吕颂贤

My brother and I had the same feel. Just 1 word to describe him, 帅！Haven't seen him in dramas for the long time until that day mom bought this HK DVD The Men of Justice.

2011-06-20T21:26:00.000+08:00

A Celebrity A Day ~ Day 81

Kodama Kiyoshi 児玉清

He has a benevolent face. I like his roles in a lot of dramas. He passed away last month due to cancer. Rest in Peace.

2011-06-19T21:06:00.000+08:00

A Celebrity A Day ~ Day 80

Miyazaki Aoi 宮崎あおい

Doesn't she just have the sweetest smile?

2011-06-18T22:07:00.000+08:00

A Celebrity A Day ~ Day 79

Kitagawa Keiko 北川景子

She started off as Sailor Mars in Sailor Moon after winning a Miss Seventeen 2003 title. I watched most of her dramas and I think I watched Buzzer Beat 10 times. I know I am a little mental.

2011-06-17T23:15:00.000+08:00

A Celebrity A Day ~ Day 78

Tomoya Nagase 長瀬智也

Lead singer for Tokio.

His role is Mukodono as Sakuraba Yuichiro really is so good that even I haven't watch it for years I can remember almost everything. It must be so good that they eventually had a sequel for it and there is even an EP for Sakuraba Yuichiro.

Sakuraba Yuichiro is a Superstar but when he is actually a geek when he is off the stage. He transforms as he changed from the suits to jumpers. I really love both songs too! See transformation from geek to Superstar!

2011-06-16T22:47:00.000+08:00

A Celebrity A Day ~ Day 77

Ekin Cheng 郑伊健

I liked him a lot when I was in Secondary School and have posters of him all over my room. Up to today, my aunt still asked me about him every time she saw me. Tokyo Raiders, Storm Riders, Feel 100% and Young and Dangerous are my faves!

2011-06-15T22:34:00.000+08:00

A Celebrity A Day ~ Day 76

Sammi Cheng 郑秀文

I love her songs and her style. Forever a diva.

2011-06-14T21:18:00.000+08:00

A Celebrity A Day ~ Day 75

Shinohara Ryoko 篠原涼子

First saw her in Mukodono and Unfair. Then it is the highly anticipated Takuya Kimura's annual drama. He only has a drama a year and it is fresh to see him partner with Shinohara Ryoko. The only flaw in the drama is the other actress who totally spoil the show with her Japanese. Moon Lovers even starred Matsuda Shota and Kitagawa Keiko. Thank goodness, in the end they both are together.

2011-06-13T20:43:00.001+08:00

A Celebrity A Day ~ Day 74

Matsuoka Mitsuru 松岡充

Lead singer of Rock band, Sophia. He only acted in a few dramas, but 1 is enough to capture my attention. Hito ni Yasashiku. 真是个美男子！

2011-06-12T20:09:00.000+08:00

A Celebrity A Day ~ Day 73

Michael Jackson

Forever the King of Pop.

2011-06-11T19:54:00.001+08:00

A Celebrity A Day ~ Day 72

Hinata Nanami 日向菜々

She is still the most adorable one to me. She is a 14 year old girl already. Her role in Hotman will make anyone dote her to bits.

2011-06-10T23:56:00.000+08:00

A Celebrity A Day ~ Day 71

Ashida Mana 芦田愛菜

She is the youngest ever lead actress in history and she is only 6 years old. Bright future ahead!

She is so adorable and she cried so convincingly in the drama Mother. She is also the youngest guest in Smap x Smap. Because she preferred Kimura-san's dish over the rest of the Smap's members, she get to kiss him and then he gave her a hug. So sweet!

2011-06-09T23:43:00.000+08:00

A Celebrity A Day ~ Day 70

Nick Cheung 张家辉

He was in a lot of comedies in the past and he is so funny. I don't fancy comedies especially Mr Bean and Yes Man type but some are exceptions.

2011-06-08T22:59:00.001+08:00

A Celebrity A Day ~ Day 69

Abe Hiroshi 阿部寛

His characters in the dramas I watched are all so funny. He also starred in this Hong Kong film I loved very much, Tokyo Raiders with Tony Leung, Ekin Cheng and Kelly Chen. I especially like his role in Change where he is the strategist for election campaigns. I just rewatched this drama after all the election fever in Singapore but I find Japan much more interesting. Or rather Takuya Kimura as the Prime Minister in the drama is too cool.

2011-06-07T22:29:00.000+08:00

A Celebrity A Day ~ Day 68

Kelly Chen 陈慧琳

Sad for her loss for her twins recently. I find her charming and pretty.

2011-06-06T23:29:00.000+08:00

A Celebrity A Day ~ Day 67

Ueno Juri 上野樹里

She is an awesome actress. Nodame Cantabile, Last friends, Sunao Ni Narenakute, Orange Days, Engine and Loss Time Life are dramas I like very much. Crazy over a guy, lesbians, handicapped, orphan, she can portray the characters very well. Her dramas are more or less the same as Eita. Her recent drama, Gou received very good ratings too.

2011-06-05T23:27:00.000+08:00

A Celebrity A Day ~ Day 66

Shirota Yuu 城田優

Spanish and Japanese actor. First saw him in Prince of Tennis and Team Batista. Going to release his solo album soon!

2011-06-05T20:47:00.004+08:00

Tonight is the mens finals in the 2nd Grand Slam Tournament of the year. Roland Garros the French Open on clay.

Rafael Nadal the king of clay has beaten Roger Federer 3 times in the finals of this tournament. He has the no 1 spot on the line if he did not win this tournament.

Roger Federer has 16 Grand Slam titles and only 1 from the French Open. But he has been playing great this tournament and I wish to see him capture his 17th title!

I shall try my best to not flood Twitter but don't hope too much. Go Roger Federer!!

2011-06-04T23:14:00.000+08:00

A Celebrity A Day ~ Day 65

Jam Hsiao 萧敬腾

He rose to fame after his PK in a singing competition. He has great vocals!

2011-06-03T22:38:00.000+08:00

A Celebrity A Day ~ Day 64

Nakashima Mika 中島美嘉

Her role as Nana in the film adaption of the manga Nana. Co-starring together with Miyazaki Aoi, I like this film a lot and the song Glamorous Sky also performed by Nakashima Mika.

2011-06-02T22:02:00.000+08:00

A Celebrity A Day ~ Day 63

Koda Kumi 倖田來未

Japanese Pop Diva. Everybody and Sukide Sukide Sukide are in my Favourite Songs List.

2011-06-01T21:53:00.000+08:00

A Celebrity A Day ~ Day 62

Lawrence Ng 吴启华

He is so convincing as a doctor in Healing Hands. I like to see him in very righteous roles.

2011-05-31T21:43:00.000+08:00

A Celebrity A Day ~ Day 61

Terry Lin 林志炫

He is very well known for his high tones. All the songs in his new album, One Take are all recorded in one take thus the name.

2011-05-30T20:47:00.000+08:00

A Celebrity A Day ~ Day 60

Yada Akiko 矢田亜希子

Looking forward to her new dramas this year. Enjoy watching her in Hotman and Last Christmas.

2011-05-29T19:55:00.000+08:00

A Celebrity A Day ~ Day 59

Kenix Kwok 郭可盈

A HK actress whom I like very much. Her role in Born Rich is utterly mean but that only means her acting is very good!