{Nina's dotted line}

#201: Well Hello, It's Been Awhile

2012-02-10T22:49:00.001+08:00

Yes it has, and I've got nothing to say.

Here, have a slice of emo.

#200:

2011-06-27T22:59:00.000+08:00

I will follow you into the dark.

So We Spent The Night Baking

2011-06-25T23:27:00.011+08:00

One of the fun things we do on Friday nights. Baking with the beautiful, talented sister in arts, Hsu Lynn! Click the link and pay her a visit. You know you want to!

And here's where the recipe is actually from. Enjoy!

.

2011-03-22T09:17:00.000+08:00

Someone Like You

2011-02-22T00:02:00.002+08:00

Cover of Adele's Someone Like You

by Aaron Khaled & Nish Tham from Torch Song Massacre.

Taken with the iPhone 4 in all raw goodness.

Did anyone else see Isaac walk off stage at the beginning of the video?

Everyday Superheroines

2011-02-15T12:58:00.003+08:00

I dedicate this post to all the wonderful women I know.

Women who wake up each day to endless demands.
Women who feel the need to be stronger than they should ever have to be.
Women who put on a mask everyday so nobody knows who they really are, or how they really feel.
Women who put their own desires and dreams aside for the ones they love.

To my fellow everyday superheroine sisters, this one is for you.

Happy Valentine's Day!

2011-02-14T09:12:00.004+08:00

   Love never gives up.
   Love cares more for others than for self.
   Love doesn't want what it doesn't have.
   Love doesn't strut,
   Doesn't have a swelled head,
   Doesn't force itself on others,
   Isn't always "me first,"
   Doesn't fly off the handle,
   Doesn't keep score of the sins of others,
   Doesn't revel when others grovel,
   Takes pleasure in the flowering of truth,
   Puts up with anything,
   Trusts God always,
   Always looks for the best,
   Never looks back,
   But keeps going to the end.

As much as I hate cliches, I woke up this morning feeling more drawn to this verse than ever. So here it is again in all its simplicity, with me hoping to one day truly understand and practice exactly what it says.

And now the cheeky side of me takes over.

Happy Valentine's Day everyone!

My World Spins Madly On

2011-01-28T00:45:00.003+08:00

Thought of You from Ryan J Woodward on Vimeo.

"My personal interpretation? Its of a love that is very intense at times, however it is also extremely fleeting,
of one party constantly yearning for the other, yet not always getting whats desired.

And this causes the breakdown in the end, when one walks away from it all,

knowing that this is not meant to be."

— A close friend

The Lyrics To This Song

2011-01-22T12:39:00.002+08:00

All Sparkles and Spikes

2010-12-09T00:00:00.000+08:00

Finally, this surfaced on Facebook.

From Jess' 21st birthday party — Glam Rock themed.

San Francisco

2010-11-17T19:24:00.000+08:00

Little Ms. Skeptical

2010-10-11T08:56:00.001+08:00

There should be a T-shirt with that on it specially made for me.

A Bird May Love A Fish But Where Would They Live?

2010-09-22T10:28:00.001+08:00

Along the horizon, where the sea and sky meet.

Best answer ever.

2010-09-17T22:35:00.004+08:00

Listening to a song that makes me think of sunny skies and warm photographs.
Flowers and sun scorched grass.

Getting into vintage vehicles,
Feeling lazy and sleepily fickle.

No pressing destination or fixation.

Just me and the moment.

Not even sure whether there's 'you' in the picture.
But it's okay.

Sunny skies and warm photographs.
Flowers and sun scorched grass...

Make me smile.

___________________________

"We may not be 14 anymore, but we’re still young, in the prime of our lives, wiser and ready to face the world together, albeit in a slightly different context.

I want you to feel the most out of now, you only get one pass at this and life is too short to be deflated for too long a period. If only you knew the positiveness emanating from you that you can’t see for yourself at the moment.

You brighten up my darkest day."

The Unweaving Of Our Tangled Lives

2010-09-15T21:38:00.000+08:00

From weddings and liquor to egg tarts and dream cheese.

Your Hand In Mine

2010-09-10T23:56:00.009+08:00

Amanda Lim, thank you for being in my life, never judging, never failing to be there. You have been one of the very few constants in my life and I thank God for you.

Your hand in mine, two God
fearing women.

Into the future and beyond!

A project I recently completed for her birthday with the help of her very loving boyfriend, Tom Levy, and her many other adoring friends. The package was flown in safely by the Ng siblings. Thank you everyone for making this happen!

Awesome Way To Start The Day!

2010-08-05T07:57:00.000+08:00

10 Lessons.

2010-07-21T00:49:00.000+08:00

1. The saving morning always comes, no matter how dark the night is.

2. Learn to let go, for nothing is worth weighing you down.

3. Time always, always heals.

4. Sometimes, it's not okay. But most of the time, it is.

5. Hindsight.

6. Leap. Jump. Dive.

7. Life is worth more than just feeling happy.

8. Smile more than you did yesterday.

9. Pray. All the time.

10. Hold on to nothing.

In Search of Chicken Rice Balls and Durian Cendol

2010-06-16T23:20:00.000+08:00

The drive down was as serene as serene gets!

And a real sight, at times.

And ooh, the sun and clouds (or lack thereof) told us today would be a hot hot day.

We caught some rare and pleasant sights.

And found very interesting old things.

It got hot after Chicken Rice Balls, so we stopped for Durian Cendol! Yum!

And my mate for the day, Bryan!

Our next visit awaited us on top of a hill.

Insanely awesome detailed typography and lettering carved perfect in stone!

Wasn't long before I figured out we were admiring tombs. *gulp*

And finally, our last visit!

The ship!

After which we scrambled out of the sun, into the car where we blasted the glorious air-con and headed home.

Very sleepily and contentedly.

The end!

Love For the Vintage

2010-06-11T17:54:00.004+08:00

A. The Suburbs
AA. Month of May

Have I mentioned that I love vinyls?

And graphics with noise.

Thanks to Chrystal who retweeted this onto my feed. <3

Btw, in case nobody got it, the vinyl can be spun and a song plays!

Snow Falling On A Summer Morning

2010-05-22T13:53:00.001+08:00

Cause my mum really really wants something to put in a frame.

If you like it, click like! <3

Dearest Christina,

2010-05-11T22:11:00.002+08:00

Birthdays only come once a year and yours is here! And seeing as this may be the last birthday we'll be spending with you for awhile, we're making it extra interesting for you. This time around, you have to choose between three of our surprises. Don't worry, none of the surprises are more special than the other. They're equally as scary!

So choose wisely and as soon as possible! To help you out with your choice, we've giving you a sneak peak introduction and star ratings on each!

Don't try to be smart, just follow your heart!

{Nothing But Fun in the Tropical Sun}

We're making the most of Malaysian weather so

grab your sunnies and flip flops and hope for some breeze!

Energy Needed: ★★★☆☆

Comfort: ★★☆☆☆

Weather Worries: ★★★★★

Food: ★★☆☆☆

Chit-chat: ★★★★★

Dressing up: ★★☆☆☆

Our grandma games: ★★★★★

Adventure level: ★★☆☆☆

{Oh my Gosh! We're so Posh!}

We working ladies finally get the treatment we deserve.
Time to kick off the heels and go ooh la la!

Energy Needed: ★☆☆☆☆

Comfort: ★★★★★

Weather Worries: ☆☆☆☆☆

Food: ★★★★★

Chit-chat: ★★★★★

Dressing up: ★★★★★

Our grandma games: ★★★☆☆

Adventure level: ★☆☆☆☆

{The Babes' Venture for Adventure!}

Girls, we're going gung ho! And no we don't need the guys to show us how it's done.
We're packing up and waving buhbye!

Energy Needed: ★★★★★

Comfort: ★☆☆☆☆

Weather Worries: ★★★★★

Food: ★★★☆☆

Chit-chat: ★★★☆☆

Dressing up: ★★☆☆☆

Our grandma games: ★★★★☆

Adventure level: ★★★★★

I Like!: Morning Music

2010-04-28T09:39:00.004+08:00

Halfway Gone — Lifehouse

I couldn't peel my eyes away from the effects. Simple yet entertaining!

Today Is A Good Day For Dying

2010-04-23T00:35:00.002+08:00

The last few days have been more than challenging—emotionally. It even came to the point of me wishing I could manufacture a replacement me so that she could take over life where i'm at and I could pop off and disappear. Start a new life maybe. I even found myself soaking in the swimming pool after regulated hours, hiding from the guards, looking up at the sky and randomly picking challenges with God.

In case you were wondering, God didn't give me the answer I was bargaining for. But now, thinking back, I realize that it was probably for the best that He didn't give in to my childish I-want-it-now pleas. If anything, I've learnt that God teaches us patience when we least want to learn. Only then do we ever really absorb what was taught.

Anyway!

Today I woke up feeling slightly more refreshed than I'd been over the last week or so. Ahh...finally, I'm feeling a little bit back on my feet! And while sitting at my desk at work, something struck me pretty hard, the way I'd imagine a lightning bolt to hit.

I'm not who I want to be!

I want to be better, more positive, and fast to forgive. I want to see the silver linings on everything and have a truly happy smile whenever something hardly even worth smiling about comes my way. There's actually a whole list more that I'm too embarrassed to type out.

It's a huge slice of humble pie, realizing that you're 22 and not the person you want to be. Yet.

Well.

There's no real conclusion to this post.

Except that today is a good day for dying.

And becoming somebody new.

~ 12 April 2010

Peer, Pry & Peek!

2010-04-01T00:59:00.009+08:00

Finally, the shelves were installed last Saturday. And after much fuss and fretting, I declare the room ready for public viewing!

And soon the walls will be decorated with paintings and pictures.

There you have it! Hope you all like!

5.5 pt

2010-03-30T23:30:00.001+08:00

5.5pt: Any designer knows this refers to fine print.

Go Placidly

2010-03-25T01:08:00.003+08:00

"Desiderata" was written in 1927 by Max Ehrmann (1872-1945). In 1956, the rector of St. Paul's Church in Baltimore, Maryland, used the poem in a collection of mimeographed inspirational material for his congregation. Someone who subsequently printed it asserted that it was found in Old St. Paul's Church, dated 1692. The year 1692 was the founding date of the church and has nothing to do with the poem.

Copied off a wall a few months back while waiting in the hospital with my aging grandma. Texted Isaac who later typed it out for me and e-mailed it back to me today.

Strange And Unprepared

2010-03-24T22:07:00.008+08:00

A wonderfully melancholic listen by awesome Copeland.

I also happen to adore the music video. It's how I've been feeling lately.

Emo Nina strikes again!

I'm Sorry Alice, I Didn't Like Your Wonderland All That Much

2010-03-22T00:39:00.003+08:00

1.

The place was beautiful, whimsical, surreal. All the things I normally enjoy. Weird. Yeah. All those things.

But wonderland made me think. What's real? What's not? Is there a possibility I'm nothing but an illusion?

If you're rolling your eyes or scratching your head wondering why I come up with thoughts like these, trust me, I wonder why too.

It's the most puzzling thing. It's frustrating. Call me emo, but I know this is a phase I need to get over.

2.

For those of you who missed Wonderland in Mid Valley, it was the most pretty thing!

Glowing mushrooms towering over your head in the center court and a huge rustic gate with creeping flowers.

A tea party spread complete with delicious food and chairs of all kinds—including the mad hatter's famous one.

Needless to say, there were people flocking to visit wonderland every single day. So for those of you who missed it, here are pictures!

Love,

2010-03-20T23:00:00.005+08:00

Dear Un-caffeinated Me,

Try not to drink coffee or tea too late in the day. Once you're past 3 in the afternoon, take water or juice instead. You need the rest or you get cranky and near depressed late at night. You toss and turn and your mind wanders and makes trips to realms you fear to visit.

Trust me, I know you hate not being able to rest while your body and mind is screaming for a release. You think too much when you're unable to sleep and it robs you of your joy. I want you to enjoy life instead. Make the right decisions, and yes, even the small ones (like not drinking coffee/tea) count! Self control is one of the keys to a focused and purposeful life.

Isn't the ability to work hard during the day and rest during the night a blessing?

Anyway, just trust me Un-caffeinated Me. Do the right thing. I know you can!

Love, Caffeinated Me.

Illustrated at work while waiting for client approval on projects.

Am I Wry? No

2010-02-24T01:28:00.003+08:00

Am I Wry? No — Mew

Just because I removed my music player doesn't mean you guys can't have a listen to my music anymore! Hope you like!

Merely 'Sleeping'

2010-02-20T15:33:00.014+08:00

Sometimes I wonder why I am me. I wonder why I am not someone else, or one of God's angels instead. I wonder why I am not a fluffy tailed rabbit who lazes around populating all day or a deer running for its life away from hunters.

When did I come about into existence? The minute I breathed my first breath? Since the first moment I could remember? Or the minute God decided on me: The stubborn little Chinese girl with wild hair and an overly inquisitive mind prone to bringing up questions she can't answer?

It's humbling knowing that there might have been a point in time when I didn't exist. It seems impossible though, because being me is all I know. But maybe it was just that my consciousness didn't exist yet, and I was merely 'sleeping'.

I wonder why I think about these things. I hope God knew what He was doing when He gave me this mystery to solve. Sometimes, I can't help but think he gave me the wrong test paper. The one I'm answering now is the one that's meant for the genius studying in Harvard or the wise old man meditating on a mountaintop. Not simple me. I just pray that I'll have enough time to get to the bottom of this, write down my final answer in doubtless pen inked bold letters, flip over the pages, and still have some extra time to relax in my chair before the examiner pulls the test from under my fingers. For good.

My grade is something I'd be scared to see.

Ultimately, I am stuck, just like everybody else, on this plane called life joining the two dots birth and death. At times, this thought is comforting. We are, despite our circumstances and different walks of life, headed in the same direction.

Other times, I feel helpless and very very trapped.

Either way, the world is too beautiful to miss.

Diamonds ARE A Girl's Best Friend! {prize money!}

2010-02-09T21:54:00.004+08:00

We all love em shiny sparkly rocks that make us feel priceless! And here's another reason to love them:

LuShae Jewelry is having their Lushae $5000 Sweepstakes! LuShae specializes in individually handcrafted jewelry. (Think fancy, princessy designs!) Pearls! precious and semi precious stones! Precious metals! Pretty bling!

All you have to do is display one of their badges on your blog for the chance to win up to $5000 cash (to spend anywhere you like on whatever). We're talking big bucks girls—and guys. Not RM, but USD $$$! No harm trying!

The competition consists of two lucky draws, an ongoing monthly one where each winner wins $200 (yay, more chances!), and an annual one. As long as you have the button on your blog when you are chosen, you get the money. So keep the button securely pasted in your sidebar or wherever for more chances to win the spending money!

Sounds good?

It is! That old phrase wasn't coined for nothing. *wink*

Click here to get your badges

By the way, there is no specified closing date for this so it doesn't matter when you read this, just go ahead and try! Good luck everyone!

The Day I Shot My Heart

2010-02-07T22:11:00.010+08:00

"It would be sunny. A good day for washing your dogs. I love big dogs, too bad I don't own one."

"Mmm. We'd get drenched. It'd be fun. They're not easy to wash yanno, they're huge."

"Part of the fun."

"Or we could meet somewhere in the middle."

"Bridge the gap eh?"

"We could meet in paradise, I've always wanted to show you around."

"We could. But I would still want you to come here. There's so much I want to show you."

"I wish we met under different circumstances."

"Why? Everything would be different."

"Maybe so. But it would be easier."

"You think?"

"I know."

"I admire your certainty. Something I don't have."

"We've known each other for seven years. I know you inside out."

"And I do too. But you know me. I can't be sure, and I can't see how you can."

"You doubt too much."

"Tell me something. Why does all this seem okay?"

"Because we've always existed this way. I prefer to leave what we have undefined and unnamed."

"Isn't that escapism?"

"Maybe. Call it what you want. What you and I share transcends anything normal. I would give my life for you."

"I wouldn't want you to."

"Not really your call."

"Then I just wouldn't tell you when I needed any saving. You wouldn't know after all. I am invisible you know."

"You never know what the future holds. Still, just to illustrate what you mean to me."

"Mmph. You're stubborn."

"You know you love it."

— Fiction

He's Such A Big Boy Now

2010-02-06T22:51:00.002+08:00

This boy of ours has grown so huge!

He doesn't mind cuddles, and loves to be as floppy as possible in our arms—which makes him almost impossible to carry for long.

And this is Ash. We grew up together, played Final Fantasy 7 on my ps1, went in line skating, and burst her dogs' ticks on her dad's hot car bonnet.

True story!

Portbook Debut!

2010-02-05T22:52:00.071+08:00

A whole new chapter awaits!

Sweet Pink

2010-01-24T21:28:00.000+08:00

White and pink vintage clay rose accessory set {RM60}

Le Tired!

2010-01-21T09:56:00.001+08:00

Day Three of the new room rush and I am about to sink to my knees and cry. I am so tired! The whole upstairs floor of my house is a utter mess of my stuff that has been moved out of the room. I can't wait for later today when the movers get everything moved back in. I've got one more wall to paint and windows to clean before 3pm.

My eyes are barely open—not like they seem very open most of the time. Gummy eyes.

But oh! The trip to Mid Valley yesterday with May was fun. We talked, visited the art store and tortured ourselves with the to-buy-or-not-to-buy decisions, the it's-almost-the-same-but-the-more-expensive-one-is-better decisions, the if-I-don't-buy-it-now-it-may-be-gone-if-I-want-it-later-should-I-just-hide-it? decisions.

And she answered my prayers! A few posts ago I mentioned finding a pair of perfect Oxfords. Well, she gave me these! I can't wait to wear them out!

Thanks May!

That Unwinding Hour

2010-01-18T23:53:00.008+08:00

No matter how hectic the day, I need it.

It's that one hour of doing nothing in particular while I'm sprawled on bed. That one hour that I tell myself to fall asleep but can't seem to tear myself away from mindlessly clicking links that don't really hold any attraction.

That hour of constant yawning, feeling the paralyzing numbness set into my limbs. I realize I'm dog tired but somehow, as chat windows pop open, I find my eyes being propped open just the same.

I actually give people the excuse that I'm 'too tired to sleep'. Yes, I do realize how absurdly insane that sounds. But what I mean is that the effort I'd have to make to get from whatever I am doing to sleeping—may it be walking from one corner of the room to the other, or spreading the blanket—is too much for me to consider.

What severe short sightedness: failing to realize that I'd have to do it anyway.

Silly me.

But still, I never regret my unwinding hour. It's a luxury to lie back and enjoy little random chats, or new websites over soothing music. (screamo!)

And falling asleep extremely exhausted is kind of a reward in itself. I love being able to end the day feeling accomplished and exhausted, having worked and played hard.

I'm greedy aren't I?

{ I've been planning this for awhile and today I finally gathered enough energy to set everything in motion. I visited the furniture store and ordered everything. Tomorrow I will be buying wall paint and moving out all my stuff. Hopefully by evening I'll be painting the walls. On Thursday my new room arrives!

I'm excited!

Amanda's asleep beside me, totally zonked out. }

My hour's up! Goodnight everybody.

To sign off, portraits of Juliana taken a week or so back.

Model: Juliana

Hair and Makeup: Nina

Photography: Nina

Art Direction and Retouching: Nina

Just Don't Let Me Catch You

2010-01-17T01:08:00.001+08:00

Playing catch with my opening lines? Just don't let me catch you!

People say plagiarism is the highest form of flattery. I can't say I entirely agree!

I'm Floating, Not Gloating

2010-01-16T11:49:00.007+08:00

Lookie what I found sitting in one of my old sketchbooks? I think this was doodled quickly somewhere in May last year.

I love lace up booties (I tend to draw them a lot) but unfortunately, all the ones I've tried on so far are either too expensive, too high, or they make me tip over right away.

I shall keep dreaming of the day I shall own a nice, affordable, comfortable pair.

Creation Satisfies

2010-01-15T14:16:00.004+08:00

A set of three vintage rose necklaces I made about half a year back.

The pink one, my fave, and the red one have been sold!

{ white rose necklace available for sale: RM59 }

New roses freshly made for dangling earring orders.

Ooo yeah, I love making things.

Let's See Where We Left Off

2010-01-13T19:56:00.001+08:00

The whole day spent on revising my resume and portfolio book. Just in case!

"Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace."

Gasp! I'm Gorgeous.

2010-01-10T22:18:00.010+08:00

Okay, so here are the rest of the shots from Amanda's shoot.

Conclusion: I need (need in bold italics and a few point sizes bigger and a totally different colour: that's how serious it is) more lights.

And the title picture,

Glitter & Dust

2009-12-24T16:59:00.006+08:00

It's Christmas once again and I'm in a cheery mood! I also feel like every step I'm taking is on jelly, my eyes are blur around the edges, (is it just me or does everything seem to emit a strange glow?) and I'm lightheaded and almost...giddy?

I'm either sick or just in happy shock.

Time waits for no one. It's already my favorite season and soon it'll be Chinese New Year. No! D= Goodbye white snow and awesome fashion pieces on sale, hello awful cymbals, hot weather, and only cookies on sale. Yes yes...I love the mall version of Christmas.

Jokes aside, I promised myself I wouldn't miss out on Christmas this year. I'm talking about the real meaning behind all the glitz and glamorous sparkles. (think TOPSHOP!) And hopefully this is the part that I'll be able to take my time to savor. I'm going to give my life a good spring cleaning and replace the dust with the glitter.

I'm off to prepare the house for a night with family. Yummy yummy food and desserts, movie and hot cocoa, presents under a tree, and last but not least, good company! Oooo I can't wait!

Blessed Christmas everyone!

Big hugs and kisses to my besties and my girls. You all know who you are!

___________________________________________________

Amanda from Not So Naked paid me a visit and exhausted me half to death! That girl can SHOP! And when she does she does it so passionately you'd think the world was at stake! First to Pavillion then to Klang to visit her family. And then back to my place which is a 30 mins drive away with no jam. We were tired...

But then, at the very end of the day—beginning of the morning—we end up doing a photoshoot! Here's one picture, the only one I post processed so far:

For The Girls

2009-12-20T15:22:00.001+08:00

Pause my music player and click play here!

Gives me Goosebumps!

2009-12-13T18:14:00.004+08:00

I love finishing projects! Love love love love love!

For Bus Company's first single — For Heaven

Yea Yea Yea Yea Yeah?

2009-12-11T14:29:00.001+08:00

11 down, 1 more to go to 22.

2009-12-01T15:18:00.005+08:00

Will be hitting Singapore with Amanda of the fashion blog Not So Naked! Can't wait!

Remember This?

2009-11-28T01:41:00.002+08:00

This was my pride and joy when I first created it.

Now do you want to see something really interesting?

Click the picture. Go on, click it.

Got To Keep It Coming

2009-11-27T17:55:00.002+08:00

I've updated, so if you want to have a look, click the image above.

Scribble Scribble Cakes!

2009-11-26T16:45:00.004+08:00

Been working on this to flush out the vintage love in me so I can move on to more contemporary designs.

Logo and identity basics

Namecards

Serving tray liner

Website

Print ad

Yea okay. So moving on...

It's Been Surreal, Thank You Very Much

2009-11-18T10:52:00.003+08:00

This year has been nothing but. Each morning, each midnight, each step out my front door, and each step in.

And look! It's almost December already. Christmas is around the corner and I'm not ready for the festivities—not to mention the true meaning behind it. There's just so much more to sort out within myself. Oh, where do I start?

Maybe next year.

In the meantime, I've got plans.

1. A visit to Singapore with Amanda of Not So Naked
2. New camera lens (hopefully)
3. New Macbook Pro (yes Ryan, stop bugging me!!!)
4. Remodeled room. (I'm gonna strip it bare and start from scratch. From painting to everything!)
5. Freelance work.
6. Update portfolio

Gosh, I just reread the list. I need to work hard.

Looklet looks of the day!

Lookie! It's Looklet!

2009-11-17T13:35:00.007+08:00

If you fashionistas haven't already experienced Looklet, you've got to head there!

Looklet is almost like a dollie/avatar creator, only fashion based. With unlimited mix and match capabilities and different model/set looks, you can hop right into the shoes of a fashion stylist/art director. Clothes, accessories and hair blend seamlessly together and are very interactive. You can even choose to wear clothes buttoned or over each other. Genius!

Inspired by Lookbook, you can save your looks and name them to be faved to the top by the public. The Looklet team updates regularly with awesome new clothes and models. It's almost like working with a high end fashion styling house.

The best part? Models don't through hissy fits if you make them look utterly ridiculous.

I like!

"Lick Lick"

2009-11-16T14:55:00.003+08:00

I love water. Salt water? Even better.

Just got back from a two day, one night trip to Langkawi with the girls. (You three will always be my girls!) Awesome! And how sad that it's over! All the talk, all the planning, and now, memories. Oh, I want to relive it again!

The bus ride up was awkward with seats that didn't really recline, a malay radio channel surfing bus driver, and the bursting anticipation. Surprisingly, we slept more on the way there than on the way back considering how pooped we were.

The hotel was awesome! Lovely pool with a deep end, jacuzzi, warm towels...a wandering cat that loved Ju and me, and the beach just 50 steps from our room! My skin is now soft and glowing, and I feel refreshed. Muscles are even more toned from the two hour walk after dinner and the one hour of treading water in the ocean the following morning.

It's back to reality again. But oh am I going to plan another one soon! I want that salt water on my skin again!

*Lick Lick*

You must be wondering 'Where are the pictures?' Well...we didn't give the camera much love this time around. Besides, us, in bikinis? Come on, we don't want to give you guys nosebleeds. *cheeky grin*

Stripped: October 25, 2009

2009-10-25T09:53:00.004+08:00

I'm not sure if this is the case, but I think I've inspired some people to start comic strips on their own blogs!

In the meantime, I'll be taking a short break on Stripped to gather inspiration and start some other art projects. But it'll be back! I hope!

Stripped: October 24, 2009 {Birds}

2009-10-24T10:39:00.001+08:00

Stripped: October 23, 2009

2009-10-23T00:13:00.004+08:00

Taken at Evangeliss Hwong's studio for the 3L (Love, Life, Living) project!

Stripped: October 22, 2009 {Skills}

2009-10-21T22:38:00.002+08:00

Stripped: October 21, 2009 {The Irony}

2009-10-20T23:53:00.003+08:00

Make my day. Make my pageviews 21,000.

Stripped: October 20, 2009

2009-10-20T13:42:00.001+08:00

Stripped: October 19, 2009

2009-10-19T18:59:00.003+08:00

The Glam Goth {Part 2}

2009-10-18T22:04:00.001+08:00

All I have to say is: Satisfying fun!

Yes, let's do it again Ryan!

The Glam Goth {Part 1}

2009-10-17T12:01:00.004+08:00

Finally, the shoot Ryan and I have always talked about.

Make up: Ryan Liang/Nina Ng
Hair Styling: Ryan Liang
Wardrobe: Nina Ng/Ryan Liang
Photographer: Ryan Liang
Art Director: Ryan Liang
Model: Nina Ng

Visit Ryan here.

At Last! You Are Mine...

2009-10-13T21:03:00.003+08:00

I have wanted you for so so long,

my english rose 15 piece tea set!

What were you guys thinking?

That's not the only thing I want though...

_____________

I think I'm weird.

I like:

English teacups ~ Gory, twisted figurines.

Hans Zimmer ~ Dream Theater

Ballet ~ In Line Skating

Cuddling ~ Wrestling *RAWR!*

Novels ~ Manga

Making clay roses ~ Left For Dead

_____________

Now that I've convinced myself I'm unique, off to read Archie's!

Fish Fetish Anyone?

2009-10-09T15:20:00.002+08:00

Bridge Over Tea & Crumpets Doesn't Quite Cut It

2009-10-08T20:40:00.012+08:00

Yes, I too, think I am crazy for redesigning one of our favourite card games just so we can play it again.

(We don't have the original cards anymore and we miss it!)

Somewhere along the line I decided a logo would be cute too. Notice the love for retroism here.

Why not make a wallpaper for the season while I'm at it.

The printed bits that cost RM63. Ouchie.

The die-cut logo. Painstaking joy.

And like that wasn't enough, I wanted to do a packaging for it too! (Made from hard brown card for a sturdy and vintage feel)

Finally done and ready for the grand reveal!

Alternate packaging design.

Sticker logos.

The box is drawer like with a ribbon tab to pull.

There are four decks for four players. Each colour represents one of us girls. Guess which!

The cards.

Ahh. Pure bliss.

Another Page In Our Book

2009-10-08T08:01:00.005+08:00

Sushi, underwear, and vintage shopping. (you can see more pics on facebook!)

The one thing you girls can NEVER do:

Fail to cheer me up during a bad streak. I love you girls so SO much!

Think:

2009-10-06T10:33:00.003+08:00

He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain that which he cannot lose.

—Jim Elliot

The Test After Time

2009-10-04T12:34:00.002+08:00

Okay, not so bad.

TOA-ers Be Proud!!!

2009-09-11T00:47:00.004+08:00

Code : Red from jarold sng on Vimeo.

By Rubberfly, 5 talented digital animation graduates of Batch 65. Click on the links to learn more about them and the project!

Feeling The High Of The Low

2009-09-07T00:46:00.006+08:00

"It's important you feel the weight of the dart. Only then does hitting the target get easier."

Easier. But not anywhere near easy.

p.s. Hopefully starting the end of this month I'll have the time and heart to start doing the things I love again. (not to mention the things I should do) Draw, sing, take time to snap pictures. Exercise. Play bridge with the girls, spend time with people I love. And update this half dead blog more often. Hopefully!

So So

2009-09-03T13:32:00.001+08:00

So So heavily medicated!

I've popped 7 different pills today and I'm not surprised if I just roll over and die the next minute.

Hmm...I don't have anything else to say.

Bye!

And She Let Out A Big Fat Sigh

2009-08-30T19:44:00.004+08:00

Babes! I miss you!

Let's meet as soon as we can!

The Issue #156

2009-08-23T12:16:00.005+08:00

"This one?"

"...I don't really like the colour."

"How about this one?"

(Nods)

(picks up the pot for closer inspection of leaves, bulbs, roots)

"Why Orchids all of the sudden? I thought the last batch you tried died."

"That was before I discovered they don't like water. With Orchids, you don't water them too much. They die."

"And before this you were over watering them weren't you?"

"Mmmhmm."

"Mum, have you ever considered that maybe I'm kind of like an Orchid..."

"That's exactly what I thought to myself this morning."

We bought Rm100 worth of plants and flowers yesterday and had a lovely dinner together at La Casa, Desa Park City. Salad, oysters, a delicate salmon, and tiramisu.

Eyo Eyo!

2009-08-21T17:56:00.001+08:00

The Last of June

2009-08-21T09:44:00.004+08:00

I like time.

Time helps you put things into perspective. It proves, it realizes, and reveals.

Turns wishfulness into fact. Convinces you that some things are actually possible. Or just can't be done.

Time never lies.

Time heals, bonds, breaks, makes. Teaches you that sometimes, change really is for the best.

An unsettled heart likes time.

I like time. Don't you?

The Cue To Gasp

2009-08-12T14:55:00.000+08:00

I Rather

2009-08-05T17:58:00.007+08:00

1. Not know. Or do I?

2. Nap throughout the day than sleep right through. Catlike I think.

3. Not wander though my own thoughts in fear of headaches and confusion. Sometimes, I really do feel that ignorance is bliss.

4. Be stuck smack in the middle with no tug on either end than be torn in the opposite directions.

5. Have a cat than a dog—at this point of time.

6. Eat cheese over chocolate.

7. Have dreams that involve only myself and God. And maybe other people, but not directly. I don't need anybody having the power to make or break them.

8. Be tortured than be tickled.

9. Bite than lick. Okay, it depends.

10. Not get hurt again. One last chance maybe.

Happiness

2009-08-05T16:54:00.005+08:00

It's a Problem I Guess I Have To Live With

2009-07-24T10:21:00.009+08:00

And the flood of new posts is because of the troubleshooting process. It's not working though.

Ryan took this at Pavilion, on the day of our job as event photographers. The story behind this picture is about a girl with a very 'unique' laugh, sitting somewhere to the left of us.

That explains the look on my face.

It's Blessing! All grown up!

Cute?

And even after all that, the problem still persists. I give up.

And They Came Back From Kangaroo Land

2009-07-24T09:10:00.019+08:00

Ash and Amanda graced Malaysia with their presence. But work got in the way and as a result, I only got to see them twice each! Just TWO TIMES!

The cheese Ash bought for me. In funny flavours like Lavender and Wild Wasabi. (No kidding!) Yummy with the tomato crackers she got along with 'em.

Here's Ash!

I woke up on a sleepy post long work day to discover that she was already waiting in my house! How lovely to wake up to that.

And Amanda! Fashion and food!

Vintage shopping day. And the vintage blazer she got for me. Nice?

Babes! Thank you for spending time with me while you were back. Hopefully the next time you come down, we'll have more time to spend.

♥☁♥☁♥☁♥☁♥☁♥☁

Full Circle

2009-07-23T18:34:00.006+08:00

Isn't it ironic that the place I went to for an escape is the place my mum grew up in? I feel totally at peace there.

Funny.

Playing Catch With Time

2009-07-22T17:57:00.002+08:00

Recently, it's been work, work, and nothing but work.

But on the 11th of July we caught the moment.

Graduation night.

We weren't always as composed and distinguished as we were supposed to look.

Just sometimes.

Christina surprised us by coming. How sneaky! Thank you babe!

Mum, the most beautiful—inside and out—woman in the world and the beautiful flowers she bought me.

Pretty aren't they? They're dried now. Too bad roses don't last long enough.

Elizabeth, the bestie, came along. Thank you Liz for coming. It really meant the world to me!

And Fariz, the guy who's leaving on a jet plane, but we know when he'll be back again. And then there's always MSN and Skype! Do you know he looks like my dad?

Juliana and I playing bond girls. And Isaac! You! Thank you for coming on last minute notice.

Amanda and Ashley, I wished you two could've made it as well. But oh well, there's the next big day of my life.

The Wedding.

Whenever that is.

I Walk Through Doors Just Fine!

2009-06-28T23:53:00.004+08:00

My first time playing a shooter game! Left for Dead!

2 hours of panic cause I kept trying to do illustrator shortcuts instead of run properly.

And here's the proof!

Okay so I have a lot of thanking to do to the three guys who brought me. Without them I would've died many many more times. No thanks to Isaac's laughing at my body language while moving. I can't help it OKAY.

There was a lot of 'Go save Nina!', 'Fetch Nina', ''Heal Nina', 'The door's THERE Nina!' going on.

And that's me!

Oh look! My plastered thumb. That's another story...from the office.

And this was taken the day I cut it. Lookie! Blood!

Goodnight!

Aloof

2009-06-23T23:57:00.003+08:00

Aloof aloof aloof aloof aloof aloof aloof aloof aloof aloof aloof aloof aloof aloof aloof aloof aloof aloof aloof aloof aloof aloof aloof aloof aloof aloof aloof aloof aloof aloof aloof aloof aloof aloof aloof aloof aloof aloof aloof aloof aloof aloof aloof aloof aloof aloof aloof aloof aloof aloof aloof aloof aloof aloof aloof aloof aloof aloof aloof aloof .

Wind + Hair

2009-06-22T21:28:00.002+08:00

sigh.

Tick Tock, There Goes The Clock

2009-06-14T00:33:00.007+08:00

Girls! Look how far we've come! I'm so proud of us. You've all made my college days the best of my life. Thank you. And I hope to see all of you soon. Love you!

2009-06-13T00:48:00.002+08:00

frustrated
.

The To-Do-List-I-Shall-Never-Give-Up-On

2009-06-09T23:40:00.001+08:00

1. Live to a ripe old age.
2. Record a cover just for fun.
3. Have too many sweets at one go and suffer a massive sugar rush.
4. Make a dollhouse from scratch.
5. Own an Alaskan Malamute.
6. Make a functional, realistic Mermaid tail.
7. Learn to drive to the Ampang lookout point so I can go there whenever I want.
8. Conquer my fear of heights.
9. Be the kind of daughter my mum wants.
10. Get locked in a mall just for fun.
11. Learn to ride and own a motorcycle. The cool kind.
12. Play Final Fantasy 7 from start to finish in less than a month.
13. Sit under the stars and cry/laugh. Whichever applies at that moment.
14. Swim naked in the sea.
15. Run naked through a forest.
16. Learn to photograph properly.
17. Learn to dance!
18. Design my own house and furnish it.
19. Pull a huge, elaborate prank on someone and never tell them what it was.
20. Learn to play the piano fluently in all keys.
21. Marry and have kids.
22. Love and be loved.
23. Be a good wife and mother.

Okay, This is The In Between Post

2009-06-09T09:02:00.005+08:00

Wait, Don't Cry. Love, Don't Go. Love, Don't Cry.

2009-06-08T09:17:00.006+08:00

" Wait, don't cry.

Love, don't go.

Love, don't cry."

- Skeletons — Yeah Yeah Yeahs

now playing in my playlist on the right.

The next post: The To-Do-List-I-Shall-Never-Give-Up-On.

Wait, don't cry.

Love, don't go.

Love, don't cry.

What Fun, The Old Days

2009-06-08T01:45:00.004+08:00

Recently, we've been doing archiving during out free time at work. Out with the old, in with the new.

But I can't help but enjoy looking at these vintage slides. They're so cute! And we have about a hundred of boxes of 'em!

Officially released photos of movie stills and celebrities. So this is how they did it back then.

This one was taken by Ryan. Look at the yellow containers they come in. Cute?

And me going through the slides, trying to place picture with page.

Tomorrow marks another new week at work. I'm thoroughly enjoying it so far.

On Friday we had a company dinner over which we were entertained by a fire eater, (literally hot!) and then later we were brought for live music and dancing. What a night!

It's June already. Halfway there...

To 22!

Goodnight everyone!

Ready Set Go!

2009-06-03T00:29:00.004+08:00

Breakfast, the most important meal of the day.

To the two people who gave me the items above, you guys know who you are!

Once again, ♥!

$$$

2009-06-01T16:29:00.009+08:00

Quote the bestie's blog.

"hehe. I start work today. weeeee. I'm kinda bored at home and I'm real happy to do something that earns me $$$ to shop with bestie, nina! weeeee. looking forward to check out topshop, zara, F21's autumn/winter 09 collections. hehe. Since nin's into dark colours, bet somethings good to buy."

Yes, every girl's reason for work. Shopping.

Here's Isaac's take on $$$ if the dollar signs are still reflected in your eyes.

Back to ~~$$$~~ work.

ARRRRRRGGGGGGGGHHHHH!!!!

2009-06-01T09:47:00.003+08:00

Firsts!

2009-05-30T10:28:00.005+08:00

My very first time!

Receiving a paycheck.

For more, visit Ryan here.

By the way, something caught my eye today at Behance. Corporate Identity stuff. Be inspired.

The Happy Package

2009-05-29T09:35:00.005+08:00

Hard work requires a little incentive. So I call this The Happy Package! I finally bought myself a perfume that I like after smell testing every single one in Metrojaya Mid Valley and going through the process of elimination. I am that fussy about smells, especially if I have to breathe it the entire day on myself. And oh the irony! My fave? Nina by Nina Ricci! Bought it! My very first perfume.

As for the flowers and letter, you guys know who you are. ♥

A close up of the bottle and box.

Now sniff me!

Chord Changes + Keyboard Shortcuts

2009-05-26T23:08:00.006+08:00

Pinups. The perfect women. No, not really. But they're pretty to draw.

So, work was tiring today. Has been. But that's okay. Work's cool. And somewhere throughout the day I told myself to share my funny observation about chord changes + keyboard shortcuts.

Okay, so here goes.

I just realized today that I have a funny habit of assigning chords to keyboard shortcuts. When I make that particular shape with my fingers on the keyboard, I'd make that sound in my head. I'm not perfect pitch so the key changes, but the relative chord remains the same.

So for example, Command + option + shift + S (Save for web) and I'd imagine 'this chord'. And to get to the image size page in photoshop, command + option + I. And I hear 'that chord'.

Are you giggling yet? Or do you have your hand on your forehead and happen to be shaking your head?

I guess the perfect audience to hear this would be musicians (preferably guitarists ) + graphic designers. They'll probably laugh.

Okay, I'm weird.

Yeah, I need sleep.

So, if you want to keep up to date with my boring little life, make sure the little birdie tells you. You know what to do.

Goodnight people!

Mondays

2009-05-24T23:01:00.003+08:00

Work starts tomorrow.

Not a bad thing at all. I'm actually happy that another week is coming.

But this time, deadlines.

DEADLINES.

No, no lines will ever die on me. I'll just keep dotting away.

When I get my first paycheck I'm going shopping.

{Nina's dotted line}

#201: Well Hello, It's Been Awhile

#200:

So We Spent The Night Baking

Someone Like You

Everyday Superheroines

Happy Valentine's Day!

My World Spins Madly On

The Lyrics To This Song

All Sparkles and Spikes

San Francisco

Little Ms. Skeptical

A Bird May Love A Fish But Where Would They Live?

The Unweaving Of Our Tangled Lives

Your Hand In Mine

Awesome Way To Start The Day!

10 Lessons.

In Search of Chicken Rice Balls and Durian Cendol

Love For the Vintage

Snow Falling On A Summer Morning

Dearest Christina,

I Like!: Morning Music

Today Is A Good Day For Dying

Peer, Pry & Peek!

5.5 pt

Go Placidly

Strange And Unprepared

I'm Sorry Alice, I Didn't Like Your Wonderland All That Much

Love,

Am I Wry? No

Merely 'Sleeping'

Diamonds ARE A Girl's Best Friend! {prize money!}

The Day I Shot My Heart

He's Such A Big Boy Now

Portbook Debut!

Sweet Pink

Le Tired!

That Unwinding Hour

Just Don't Let Me Catch You

I'm Floating, Not Gloating

Creation Satisfies

Let's See Where We Left Off

*Gasp!* I'm Gorgeous.

Glitter & Dust

For The Girls

Gives me Goosebumps!

Yea Yea Yea Yea Yeah?

11 down, 1 more to go to 22.

Remember This?

Got To Keep It Coming

Scribble Scribble Cakes!

It's Been Surreal, Thank You Very Much

Lookie! It's Looklet!

"Lick Lick"

Stripped: October 25, 2009

Stripped: October 24, 2009 {Birds}

Stripped: October 23, 2009

Stripped: October 22, 2009 {Skills}

Stripped: October 21, 2009 {The Irony}

Stripped: October 20, 2009

Stripped: October 19, 2009

The Glam Goth {Part 2}

The Glam Goth {Part 1}

At Last! You Are Mine...

Fish Fetish Anyone?

Bridge Over Tea & Crumpets Doesn't Quite Cut It

Another Page In Our Book

Think:

The Test After Time

TOA-ers Be Proud!!!

Feeling The High Of The Low

So So

And She Let Out A Big Fat Sigh

The Issue #156

Eyo Eyo!

The Last of June

The Cue To Gasp

I Rather

Happiness

It's a Problem I Guess I Have To Live With

Gasp! I'm Gorgeous.