another birthday gift?

I had meant to post this on my birthday, or at least on a memorable date but oh well, better late than never. March itself is usually a busy month, which I try to enjoy the celebrations with dear ones. In Japan it's also extra special because its the arrival of spring, and sometimes you get to see cherry blossoms peeping out thanks to unusually warm weather for that particular week.

8 March is not just my birthday, but I also share this special date with other momentous events. It used to be the Sultan Selangor's birthday, though I never lived in the state then to enjoy the state holiday. Now it's marked as the International Womens Day; I remember getting roses when working at companies which were more inclusive and diversified.

On this date in 2008, Malaysia experienced the political tsunami when the ruling government almost lost their grip. In 2014, one of our Malaysian Airlines plane disappeared into the seeming unknown and ended up being the largest aviation history in the world to date.

10 years ago, I received the much awaited letter from the Japanese Embassy, which gave me the unbelievably good news of getting a full scholarship to study my Masters. It was the bestest birthday gift ever from above. It was the ticket to and fulfilment of many dreams at once, many of which I never imagined possible before.

To be honest, I thought that was it. I've done my graduate studies, traveled to many countries, lived studied and worked in a foreign country, made many friends from all over the world, and experienced many things which would never have been possible had I stayed behind.

This year on my birthday, I received confirmation from the company that my relocation was approved by the Board. I wasn't around (I usually am out of office on my special day!) to receive the news directly, but it's okay.

It's really a long story, which I would span more than a year. After much pondering and praying, I decided to take it up. I still have my concerns and reservations though. But I told God, He'd better take care of me if He's sending me there. Well, this is what I prayed when I went to Tokyo and Kobe. He's answered my prayers more than I expected, so I knew it was meant to be.

Oh well, maybe I'm just too tired from all the packing and preparation to feel excited.

Śærãh

I received this last year on my birthday, and was both amused and flattered. Thinking it was more for my personal perusal, I kept it to myself. However, having a deeper appreciation later I felt it was due for sharing...

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The extremely rare Sarah (hypothesized pronunciation: Śærãh), initially from the tropical regions of Malaysia.

The Sarah is not yet fully understood by most humans, but is said to have a wide span of interest in many things and impressive set of capabilities comparing to other homo sapiens, having supreme features and traits.

The Sarah is said to be of such uniqueness and extreme rarity that there is only one on Earth, with no more than one recorded sighting ever.

The Sarah is definitely a nocturnal creature, often feeling hunger and wanders around at night. It is suggested that the Sarah has traversed many continents and corners of the world, but is most likely currently residing somewhere in the southeast region of Asia according to recent reports.

With a keen interest in variants of Cocoa drinks, Milo seem to in many cases be Her prime source of food intake, although having a preferred approach for as much variety as possible and careful considerations in order to have “a balanced meal”.

Furthermore, the Sarah seem to often be prepared with other various kinds of snacks at arms distance, should a situation in Her daily habitat not allow for a proper and well cooked dish.

Should you find yourself to be in any kind proximity (virtual, physical or any other imaginary form) to the Sarah, great caution must be taken. For as soon as She shows but one minuscule part of Her individuality you will be lost forever, captured by Her unparalleled charisma, sharp intellect, otherworldly presence and enchanting beauty on multiple levels.

The Sarah may “capture” any mind it so desires, consciously or passively (by simply being in proximity one way or another), but has the most kind soul and wishes good upon the world.

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*Photo credit to Wiki (which I later found out!)

options on a platter

Some months ago, when my bigger boss was in Kobe he asked for some impromptu time with me. I started forming project updates in my head and imagined what questions he might have for me. There were some projects which weren't progressing as well as scheduled but I had my points ready just in case.

I was surprised when he started drawing on the board of the various systems and ongoing projects. I put my laptop aside and started to pay attention.

After some time of explaining, I realised he was sharing with me upcoming projects and the possibility of moving into one (or more) of them. Some would involve mobility to another city, and even country.

I thought it was all very fascinating, being able to choose and have some say in what I would like to do next. I think the others don't have that as much, possibly because I have dealt with most regions to a certain degree and my skills are quite transferable.

前菜盛り合わせ

I wish it was that simple; like this platter of hors dóeuvre. Just choose a little bit of everything, take it in a bite at a time and then move on to something else. Once you've gobbled it down, you don't have to think about it anymore. Except for how good (or bad) it was. Because after that you get distracted by the salad, and the pasta, the pizza and the main dish, and the dessert.




* On a side note, this was my first time going to a Michelin rated restaurant. Someone told me that Japan, and even in fact Tokyo itself, has the most number of Michelin-rated restaurants compared to anywhere else in the world. Though it's rated Bib Gourmand, I think it was still very lovely and worth its entry.

L'aranceto is located in a quiet part of the Kitano area which boasts one of the best, if not the best Kobe beef steak restaurant around. To be honest, it looked rather unassuming at first from the outside, but the modest interior is just a front for some fine Italian cuisine in a cosy setting.

明石たこと水なすとフルーツトマトとアボカドマリネ

サザエのガーリックバター焼き

仔牛フィレ肉とアスパラガスと水牛モッツレラチーズのコンカドーロ風

the birthday that was, or was it?

Thanks everyone for the warm wishes and sweet thoughts! Rather than bore you with the usual speech of gratitude, let me humour you instead on this auspicious day. I booked my flight earlier than usual in the hopes of coming back in time for my birthday weekend. It was almost perfect; the business trip went well, I did what I went to Europe for, and accomplished 5 milestones in 2 weeks.

Was happy I visited a new country though I didn't get a stamp on the passport, enjoyed so much Scandinavian dishes I forgot I missed rice, and appreciated the better work-life balance that Asian companies are not known for. Even though I was still on calls with my boss, and some agencies up till the airplane was about to take off, I was quite pleased with myself, but very much thankful for His grace and mercy for such a "I-don't-quite-know-what-adjective-to-use" trip in Europe this time around.

I had called up a few people to let them know I was back, and was anticipating a lovely birthday lunch which was planned weeks in advance. Snuggled back in my bed, set 2 alarm clocks just in case, and off I went to dreamland.

Next thing I knew, I woke up to see 3:37 on my phone. Is that AM or PM? OMG, as I looked out the window through the heavy curtains, I had missed my own birthday celebration.The jet lag and period and whole trip must have conspired against me! I didn't realise I was so tired, but I guess my body needed the rest.

My dear friends were so kind that they brought the birthday cake, the food they cooked, and the presents to church. Was very touched at their generosity, time and effort put into planning my special day. You should've seen the video they took singing birthday songs for me, with an empty chair reserved for me!

pre-birthday happiness

It's been a lovely but unexpected prelude to the birthday this year.

When I went home for Christmas, I knew I would be having a business trip sometime in February. I was hoping it would coincide with some snow since there's very little where I am here. However, project delays and availability pushed the date back a few times

So you can imagine I was very relieved that I didn't have to spend my birthday through a business trip, thanks to a little bit of planning and grace from above!

This was my first trip alone. Usually the boss or a colleague would be on the same trip. By His grace, I was able to accomplish what I went to Europe for - complete requirements gathering for Sweden, and launch 4 European sites.

This was the first time I stayed over the weekend, so I was able to explore a new country. Too bad I didn't get the Swedish stamp on the passport, since I was transiting from the Netherlands. >.<

Of course, there is still lots of unresolved issues, some unhappy people, and loose ends to tie up. But I ain't superwoman, and there's only so much one can do. So I chose to reflect on the positives of this trip - a check for a new country, plenty of gastronomic experiences, lovely people, and many unexpected treats.

Even though I was still on calls up till when the plane was getting ready to take off, I'm thankful I was able to leave Europe with sweet memories this time. Coupled with the fact that I came back a day earlier than usual means I'm able to celebrate my birthday properly!

celebrating cny at kobe

Hope it's not too late to wish everyone a Happy Chinese New Year! Just like another year in Japan, I'm missing out on the celebrations back home. No holidays here, furthermore had been a pretty busy week at work that I only managed to check all the wishes on Whatsapp last night!

But managed to squeeze in some sort of celebrations with the colleagues at 小審陽  a Chinese restaurant in Sannomiya. Apparently serving Shen Yang chinese food, it was pretty good compared to most Chinese food in Japan.

Seems pretty international this motley group from Singapore, the Philippines, Korea, Taiwan and Hong Kong. Most are Chinese ethnicity, and the rest I called them Chinese-wanna-be's who felt like celebrating Chinese New Year.

In the spirit of more eating and on the pretext of celebrating the 2nd day of CNY, had more food this evening. I thought why not, might as well have some nice food after a long day at work. I've never had so much yakiniku in my life until I came to Kobe! I bet my bro would love this, especially those of the wagyu variant.

whom i should meet p1

My trip back home this time was a little different from the years before. I didn't manage to meet some of the people I wanted to, or would usually do. On the other hand, I was pleased that I was able to catch up with old friends whom I have not met for some time.

I did pray that He would guide me to whom I should meet, where I should be, and what I should be doing this time around.

Throughout last year, I've been thinking what I should be getting for loved ones back home. I didn't want to repeat the mad rush of Christmas shopping just a day before flying, and fretting out if I got enough gifts for everyone.

Since I'm not such a sports person, I thought it a waste that I wasn't enjoying the benefits of our company's products.

I decided to ask around my marathon friends if they were interested in any shoes. From my personal experience, they are good and worth the price, even if it's premium. One of the persons who responded was Eric. He wanted to be the first in Malaysia to own a Kayano 21. Speaking about being kiasu!

I was delighted that the Japan site was offering free gift wrapping and delivery due to the upcoming holiday period. It came nicely and carefully packed; again thumbs up Japanese quality of service and delivery.

The Christmas gathering that he invited me over turned out to be such a mix bag of surprises. I managed to meet up with Alex whom I have not spoken in years, a little since we 3 did Run Nat together. Bumped into Sam, didn't know he knew both of them! He was the one who consoled me when I lost Granma Wong while in Tokyo, especially when I was still new there. And towards the end of the evening, we had the pleasure of hearing how Eric had just proposed to his fiancee that day itself. Plus many new friends I made who were curious about my life in Japan.

double my yolk please

It was the Mid-Autumn Festival recently, and I've had the opportunity to indulge in some mooncakes that my mum had sent over through Chyn. To be honest, I'm not a big fan of the sweet delicacies, but I'm game for the yolk versions. 

After the home church service at Ako's mum's home, I shared with them this double-yolk lotus paste mooncake, and they all really enjoyed it.

There are mooncakes apparently sold in Japan, but really small size and does not taste anything like the original. Hence, my Japanese friends were curious about the ingredients and the taste, and seemed to be fascinated with this Chinese delicacy.

I was excited myself as I actually managed to cut this cake into almost precise 8 slices, thanks to a good knife in their kitchen.

To be honest, I have no recollection of actually cutting mooncakes back in Malaysia. Usually it's my dad who does it and we just ... eat 'em! How ironic that now I'm away from home, I learn how to do such seemingly simple things and feel a sense of achievement (^.~)"

For such a treat as the double-yolk, it definitely deserves the finest cut. With the yolks so evenly distributed, it would be a waste if any crumbles and falls out. 

though typhoons may rage

I had meant to write a little something to commemorate my being here 2 years.

I was getting a bit restless past few months, and then a bunch of things happened that threw my world upside down. I think God knows I love surprisesvariety and can't stand routine. Note to self, gotta be more specific when wishing for things, even when uttered under the breath.

One surprisingly resolved pretty quickly and amicably; the one that caused me the most stress. One happened unexpectedly, and still is not resolved; the one that is involving more and more people. One turned out to be much relief in the midst of grief and disappointment; the one that left me dazed.

As I prepare to step into a new season, wondering what He has in store for me, I'm humbled by what He has allowed me to experience so far. Even though I was not able to take some time off to celebrate my anniversary here, somehow the past couple of weeks have brought some needed joy in the midst of 2 typhoons.

Invitation to a recital, fruity parfait fellowship with the grrls, a colourful summer bouquet, chocolate almond cookies from home, badminton and bowling in one night, dinner and drinks with a charming group and an intimate tea time over shared stories.

thankful for mama

A couple weeks ago I had ordered some flowers online. It was my first time, and I didn't quite know what to expect. Ironic considering I'm in the e-commerce field! Well, the florist was based in Malaysia and we've heard cases of fraud and such so it was with some trepidation that I clicked submit.

I had already texted my dad to be on standby at home since I wanted it to be a surprise for my mum. He happened to be out for lunch then, when the delivery boy came. He tried to call my mum and after trying for like 10x he left some messages.

My mum working then, thought it suspicious that someone had delivered "something" but would not tell her what it was and who it was from. Later she found out that their delivery staff were trained to be discreet while professional.

In the end, since no one was at home, the delivery boy tried both neighbours but alas, they were also out. He finally managed to leave the bouquet with the neighbour 2 doors away. Glad to know they didn't hoard the flowers themselves - I should have more faith in humanity I'm glad there is hope in humanity.

Finally that evening when she came home she finally got the flowers. My dad who was more excited took quite a lot of pictures for me!

She was very surprised with the gift and expressed her appreciation to me and my bro. This was the first time I had thought of it, as years before when I asked, she replied that flowers don't have much value as they are not very practical gifts >.<

skiing in kannabe p2

Even though the ski trip was a month ago, the friends I made during that trip still say hello sometimes when we bump into each other at the corridor. 2 of the ladies are friends of Aino-chan, and another is a sister of one of the 2. The rest of us are from the IT department, and Leon who was on business trip got invited because he happened to be in Kansai that time.

I have difficulty remembering Japanese names, but better at faces, because of the long syllables! But I must say, I remember Malaysians better because there is so much variety - we are of different ethnicities, colours and personalities that it makes it easier. In a homogeneous country like Japan, I sometimes have to meet a person twice to remember the face, and speak more often to have the name stick.

The other day, I happened to take the same train back as one of the ladies. Usually Japanese are shy and a little hesitant to open up and be close during the first few encounters. So I've gotten used to this somewhat seemingly cold reception living here (of course there are exceptions).

As we started chatting on the way, I remembered she was a China-born Korean, but we both spoke Japanese to each other. She started offering me some snacks as it was way past dinner time (eating in trains is a no-no in Japan), and started asking rather personal questions like my rental and such (apparently this kind of questions is common in Kansai!). She also asked if it was too late for me to go back to cook for my husband.

In my tiredness, I thought I had misheard, or my Japanese was not good enough to capture her question. When I tried to clarify, she said Aino-chan had told her I was married. I responded that I didn't even know I was married!

The things you hear about yourself sometimes from seemingly strangers @.@. I wonder how Aino-chan got that impression, or how that piece of information got passed around. I forget sometimes I'm a foreigner and possibly a novelty still to my Japanese colleagues.

skiing in kannabe

Finally got the chance to go skiing over the weekend - first time in Kobe!

I had taken some pictures with my phone camera, but since it doesn't have reverse camera, I couldn't take any of myself. It was a rather cloudy afternoon, and it even rained a little. Too bad no extra snow, but still happy I got my ski and snow fix.

So I'm really glad our colleague Yokogawa-san brought a portable video camera along, and even composed a nice little montage (with one of my fav Japanese songs)* of the ski trip in Kannabe. Makes me want to get one of that too!

* Update 10 March : Apparently Youtube had removed the accompanying music, must have been due to copyright issues. Bummer!

valentine's in japan

Along with Christmas, Valentine's Day has become somewhat so commercialised that everyone is cashing in on these events. In a country like Japan that loves novelty and has a culture of gift-giving, these are perfect opportunities for retailers.

I'm really astonished by the many creative ideas for gifts and lovely merchandises that they come up for these events. Each elaborately packaged that I'd buy just because they look pretty!

However, Valentine's Day is celebrated a little differently in Japan, and also South Korea. On Feb 14, the grrls get gifts (usually chocolates) for the guys. There are 2 types - one is the usual where if the grrl likes a guy, she would give presents to express her feelings, and the other is called "obligatory" chocolates for female colleagues to give to their male colleagues.

One month later on Mar 13, it will be the guys' turn. In the 1st scenario if the guy is interested in the grrl, he would get her gifts. Then the grrl would know for sure how he felt. Please don't ask me why it takes 1 month for the guy to respond!

This year as with previous year, the IT grrls pooled some money and bought "obligatory" chocolates to the guys in the IT department. Since usually guys outnumber grrls, we had to spend a bit to ensure the guys don't get measly chocolates.

It became such a topic of contention because some felt it was not fair, another pointed out this year's cost was higher because more guys joined the department recently. One even suggested we should just call it off if no one really wanted to give, just because it's a "culture".

I told the organiser, that it's the thoughts that count. Trying to explain this phrase, I illustrated by saying, even if the gift was handmade and not necessarily expensive, I'm sure the recipient would appreciate it.

christmas in kobe

When I realised the company had winter break, I decided to book a flight back for Christmas and New Year's. I wasn't sure when I'd get to go back next as 2013 would be even busier with 4 projects running concurrently. I have other mini projects on the side, but that's another story.

I was in a dilemma as to which date I should fly back. It would have been impossible to attend Christmas celebrations at KBF and GTPJ even though both are on different dates. 25 December is not a holiday here, so we had 2 celebrations before. The big one which was open to public was held at the Kitano Meister, a popular tourist spot with a multi-purpose hall which we rented for the event.

It was really very encouraging to see so many people joining. Some tourists who were downstairs visiting the shops and galleries also made their way up upon hearing the songs from the hall.

This particular group of singers look like a scene from Sister Act with their gospel gowns. I later found out they're not Christians. A group of Christian musicians had conducted a music workshop in Nara, and had taught them gospel songs. They were invited to our church to present Christmas songs.

For some reason, the Japanese have a fascination with the Hawaiian culture. Well, for one, its a popular tourism spot especially for families and honeymooners. Also, there's a big community of Japanese there, so you'd be forgiven if you thought you were still in Japan.

Anyways, KBF have their own hula grrls. They perform at special occasions like this, and it's really beautiful. I first saw them at the Malaysian Night event and was so touched when they danced to the song "Just Let Me Say". When I expressed this to Ka'Chan, one of the lead dancers, she gave me a copy of the CD which they practice to. I first got it when I still didn't have Internet, so it brought some cheer to my little home then.

The Christmas celebration ended with the song Silent Night. The visitors were given an illumination stick as part of the welcome pack.

Some realising they might not be able to stay to the end to use it (maybe their tour bus was waiting downstairs!) actually went up to us to return it. How honest ya! I was really surprised as no one would have faulted them should they just keep it and decide to use it at home.

It was full house that evening. I had offered to help Yuko with the welcome team, and didn't realise how tiring it would be. Ideally I would have preferred to do something which I'm more familiar with, but seeing how much help they needed I thought it was a good experience.

The Japanese Christians might be a minority in this country, but they serve humbly and joyfully despite not being very outward about it. It's like a simmering pot of warm food that needs to be heated up to release the taste.

christmas illumination

Christmas in Western countries begins after Halloween. Alden had posted some pictures of the lights in London, and it reminded me that Yuri had also sent me some taken with her mobile in Tokyo.

Believe it or not, I have not captured a single shot of the Christmas illumination in Tokyo during my time there!

Christmas in Japan also begins after Halloween. In fact, a lot of Western holidays are celebrated with much anticipation by the Japanese. I'm (still) surprised at the scale and detail with which the Japanese celebrate this year-end event, whatwith all the lights and glitter, parties and presents, hype and hope. Malaysia hasn't even started decorating yet!

run for the nation 2009

Helping out at tomorrow's Run for the Nation event. RunNat2007 saw about 100 people participating, this time we will have more than 10 times of that!

This year's event will cover 14 states, each with teams of 3 running together, and upholding the nation in prayer. I was asked to help out in the Klang Valley section.

We have at least 25 areas in the Selangor/KL region, each with their respective Area Managers (AMs).
Each area comprises of 8 teams, each with their respective Team Managers (TMs) who will be driving along with the runners.
Each team will have an average of 3 runners who will be given prayer cards, which will be passed on to the next team, somewhat like a relay run.

The total distance covered by each area will be 40km, so each runner will run for 5km. Hence, it is open to anyone who is willing to run and pray. All routes will end up in PJEFC where earlier teams will welcome the last team from all 25 routes, where there will be a time for corporate prayer and worship, and also giving out of certificates and refreshment.

When Alex came up with the idea of a "Running Task Force", he wanted me to be their Team Manager. His teammates are all seasoned runners, having run in marathons all over and going for weekly runs as part of their routine. This special team would step in to help any team that have emergencies or are lacking in runners.

It's somewhat like a backup team that sends professional runners to run alongside and encourage them, and to fill in the gap where necessary.

The planning committee thought this was cool and gave them the go-ahead to be part of the backup team.

However, that meant I would have to know where everyone is and what route and schedule they would be on in case they suddenly call me at 6am to tell me one of their runners had just fallen ill and need to be hospitalised.

Oh, did I forget to mention that the race starts at 5am? (@.@) I have to be at PJEFC by 4am to finalise routes for my team, since I'm still getting emails with last-minute changes.

So anyways, we've just made calls to all AMs to send in a complete list of contacts for their Team Managers and also the routes that they will be running in. We've already had requests coming in for additional assistance. I've deployed all my runners to high priority teams (eg : there's a group with only 1 grrl running, another with just senior citizens, and some even without TMs).

One worst-case scenario will be if I have to go pick up my runner in Wangsa Maju after his 5am slot, drive him to Shah Alam for the 7am slot, then meet him again at the end of his route, and bring him to the final run at Petaling Jaya. Thank God I have a driver who doesn't mind doing all the driving.

I will be arming myself with my brother's Garmin GPS, Alex's new MAC with 7 hours of battery life so that I can refer to all 25x8 maps that everyone will be sending in by tonight and have 25x8 phone numbers in case additional deployment is needed, and tonnes of paper to jot things down.

If I am to leave the house by 3:30am, I don't see myself getting any sleep tonight! (0.o)

waseda big bears vs keio unicorns

My latest housemates are 2 Malaysian grrls studying in Waseda University. They've been living here since February, and hanging out with them and their friends made me feel quite like a student again. In fact, with my extended-leave-status, I'm living the student life, whatwith all the gatherings, cooking sessions, events and seemingly arcadian existence that I sometimes feel quite guilty about!

Anyways, they have christened me as a Waseda honorary affiliate and extended an invitation to an American Football friendly between their university and Keio University. This was going to be rather exciting since I have never been to a football match ever in my life, whatmore any sports event in Japan.


Nevermind that I was never into football to begin with, but sitting under the glare of the mid-day sun cheering for a university that was not even my alma mater added to the mystery of me ending up at Komazawa Olympic Park for the 57th Annual Classic Match.


The weather all week has been bright and sunny, making it perfect for outings. Knowing how deceptive spring weather can be, we somehow forgot to slap on extra sunblock and had to shield ourselves with our coats and jackets from the afternoon heat.


The Keio Unicorns were no match against the Waseda Big Bears. Even into the 2nd quarter, the Bears were leading by a comfortable margin of 17-3. The cheerleaders from the opposing team who came out in full force to support the Unicorns did little to boost the score.


In the remaining 2 quarters, Waseda continued on their winning streak and gained 30 more points to be the winner in this match. Big Bears thrashed the Unicorns 47-3.


After the game, all the players from both teams lined up at each side of the stadium facing each other. 4 representatives from each team walked up to the opposing side to bow to their opponents in a sign of mutual respect and sportsmanship. Then each team turned to face their spectators and bowed to them.


School anthems from both sides were played as part of the prize-giving ceremony. When Waseda's school song was being played, spectators from our side of the stadium stood up and followed the hand movements as indicated by the conductor standing just below us. How patriotic. I don't think MMU and IUJ ever had school songs!


When all the rituals of a well-played game had ended, the guys from the Big Bears converged and gave out a rousing cheer for the spectators who had come out to support them. Then they grabbed their coach and threw him into the air as they patted each others' back for an almost-effortless win.


I guess football can be rather interesting.