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Thursday, October 31, 2024

Gallimaufry#151

Just a gallimaufry of AI-generated photos, real photos and ramblings 📸
Whispers of history in my hometown Ipoh

The name "Ipoh" is believed to have originated from a local tree called the pohon epau or pokok ipoh (scientific name: Antiaris toxicaria). This tree is native to Malaysia and other parts of Southeast Asia. The sap of the Ipoh tree is poisonous and was historically used by indigenous people, particularly the Orang Asli, to coat the tips of blowpipe darts for hunting.

Haha, looks like Ipoh’s true meaning has been revealed—"Town of Handsome People"!

Here’s the literal translation from Malay:
  • I: Ini = This
  • P: Pekan = Town
  • O: Orang = People
  • H: Handsome = Handsome
It's a humorous take, not the actual origin of the city’s name but a playful way to celebrate Ipoh’s charm!

Nostalgia
This quaint, nostalgic shop echoes the charm of Malaysia's past. Large glass jars and vintage tins contain an enticing array of snacks reminiscent of the sundry shops that once flourished, selling beloved biscuits from my childhood.

DINNER—hotpot 


TRAVEL ARCHIVES

Zaanse Schans



There’s just something about Dutch clogs that makes you smile. With their rustic charm and practical design, they’re like little wooden hugs for your feet and heart—and they make for adorable decorations for your home, too!
Ever wonder where those adorable little wooden clogs that friends bring back from the Netherlands come from? Well, it turns out they’re handcrafted by these charming little mice!
CONVOCATION
October 19th marked a proud and unforgettable moment as my husband officially graduated with his PhD in philosophy


Doctors of Philosophy


My Corner of the World

Friday, October 25, 2024

Gallimaufry#150

Just a gallimaufry of AI-generated photos, real photos and ramblings 📸
Fishing
If you visit a Malaysian blog, chances are you’ll see food photos—it's our way of life. A regular Malaysian grabs takeout for lunch, cooks only once a day for dinner, and eats out on weekends because eating out is affordable, widely available, and reflects our multicultural society, offering a rich variety of flavors from Malay, Chinese, Indian, and other cuisines. 

Dinner—Thai
 
Thai deep-fried omelette
Thai deep-fried omelette, or Khai Jiao (ไข่เจียว), is easy to make, super oily, and unapologetically unhealthy—but totally worth it! With its crispy edges and fluffy center, it’s a quick comfort food often served over rice with chili sauce. Add minced pork or herbs for extra flavor and enjoy every crunchy, golden bite!

Yes, making Khai Jiao involves deep-frying. The beaten eggs are poured into very hot oil, causing them to puff up and develop crispy, golden edges. This technique gives the omelette its signature light, airy texture with a crunchy exterior. While it's more oil-intensive than traditional omelettes, the delicious results make it a popular comfort food in Thailand.

            

THOUGHT NIBBLES


FROM THE TRAVEL ARCHIVES

Souvenir shops in Pyrgos Kallistis


One of the fun things to do when traveling is souvenir hunting. I love wandering through small, tucked-away shops, discovering unique trinkets that capture the spirit of the place. There’s something exciting about finding handcrafted items, like local pottery, magnets, or postcards with scenic views. I especially enjoy chatting with shop owners, learning the stories behind their merchandise, and picking out little gifts for friends and family. It’s not just about buying things—it’s about bringing home memories, each item a reminder of the adventure, the people I met, and the places I explored.
I know, AI mice overload—I can’t help it! The details are so spot-on, exactly how I saw them when I was in Greece.

It’s just like the blue-domed churches, the winding cobblestone stairs, and those quaint souvenir shops brimming with treasures.
From the tiny baskets filled with handmade soups to the vibrant postcards, Mati (evil eye symbol) and sun hats, it all feels so real. It’s like those little AI mice are bringing the same charm and energy I experienced, right down to the lazy cats and the tinkling bells from the donkeys.





UPDATE—MY NEIGHBOURS FROM HELL ðŸ˜ˆ

The nightmare continues, and my neighbors have officially taken their disturbances to bizarre new heights. What started as obsessive vacuuming has now escalated into all sorts of strange nighttime activities: tools clanging, objects dropping, furniture being dragged, stomping, scraping and rolling noises, loud door creaks announcing their entries and exits, and water gushing at odd hours—often heard after midnight, with their unit shrouded in total darkness.

Here’s where things get really weird: Lately, I’ve noticed the husband leaving the condo at 3 AM with a suitcase and backpack, only to return 20 minutes later. This has been confirmed by our night security guard. 

I shared an elevator with the wife on several occasions and noticed that she was always carrying clothes on hangers, which I assumed were from the cleaners. Once, my husband spotted them both walking to the car—she was hugging a pile of clothes, and he was toting several bags

Honestly, I don't care what they're up to—whether it’s laundry runs, secret missions, or stashing evidence—but their nocturnal activities are wrecking my sleep. The husband isn’t deliberately stomping around (he’s just that heavy-footed), but the relentless clattering, water sounds, and those 3 AM suitcase sprints are driving me to the brink. Every night feels like a game of roulette: Will I get any sleep tonight, or will their antics keep me wide awake?

I’ve tried earplugs, but they give me headaches, and since I have ear eczema and am allergic to certain materials, finding something comfortable is a struggle. The daytime vacuuming is incessant, and I'm starting to wonder—maybe it’s not just OCD… maybe it’s about removing evidence.

So, folks—what do you think? Midnight mules, undercover agents, or just laundry-loving night owls? Maybe it’s just a fetish for doing laundry in the dark. 

Do drop your 2 cents—because at this point, I might need it for some industrial-strength sleeping meds!

Jokes aside, thanks to my neighbors, I now have chronic insomnia. I’m desperately needing your prayers to help me find peace and restore my sleep because I’m starting to feel like a zombie.

My Corner of the World

Thursday, October 17, 2024

Gallimaufry#149

Just a gallimaufry of AI-generated photos, real photos and ramblings 📸
KOLAM/RANGOLI
Rangoli, also known as Kolam in Tamil Nadu, is a traditional Indian art form where intricate patterns are created using rice flour, colored powders, or flower petals. These designs are often drawn at doorsteps to invite prosperity and ward off negativity. Rangoli is especially popular during festivals like Diwali, Onam, and Pongal, symbolizing joy, harmony, and divine blessings. The ephemeral nature of this art—meant to be remade each day—reminds us of life’s transient beauty.

Fun Kolam Facts ðŸª”

  1. The lines in a kolam must remain continuous and unbroken to prevent evil from entering the home through gaps.
  2. These intricate patterns are traditionally passed down from mothers to daughters, preserving the cultural heritage across generations.
  3. In Tamil, the word "kolam" symbolizes both form and beauty.
  4. As the day progresses, the kolam naturally fades—worn away by footsteps, birds, insects, and weather. Each morning, a new kolam is created, symbolizing the daily renewal of life.
Dinner


Steamed eggs are a comfort food that many of us grew up enjoying. Made with just three simple ingredients—eggs, water, and salt—this homey meal evokes nostalgia and warmth. While it may seem straightforward, achieving the perfect texture can be surprisingly challenging. The trick lies in using eggshells to measure the water, ensuring the perfect ratio for that silky texture.

The steaming process is just as crucial: the heat must be just right. If the water is boiling too rapidly, the eggs will develop lumps and appear pockmarked. On the other hand, if the heat is too low and the steaming takes too long, the eggs can become hard. Achieving that perfect, melt-in-your-mouth consistency can be hard to nail, but each bite is a reminder of home and the love that goes into cooking.

Something blue

HALLOWEEN 2000

Halloween isn't a big celebration in Malaysia, though it has been slowly gaining traction, especially within the expatriate community and among the younger generation. You’ll find themed events at international schools, bars, and cafes, and some shopping malls even put up spooky decorations. But for most people, it’s just another day that goes by without much fanfare.

The only Halloween party I’ve ever attended was at my son’s preschool. He dressed up as Superman, and I still remember how excited he was posing with his little buddy, Abigail, who came as an adorable ladybug. It was a simple and fun occasion, and the kids had a blast.

Just having fun with AI and getting into the Halloween spirit! Halloween decorations in a local mall


FROM THE TRAVEL ARCHIVES

Jane Austen's Georgian townhouse in Bath
Everything happened so quickly during our tour of Bath! By the time the guide pointed out Jane Austen's house at No. 4, our bus had already passed, and I barely managed to snap this photo of the apartment building where she stayed. It’s amazing to think about the literary genius that once walked these streets. Although the shot is just a glimpse, it’s a reminder of the rich history and inspiration that Bath holds. I can only imagine the stories Jane Austen must have woven while looking out at this very view!

PRIDE AND PREJUDICE

Back in my all-girls high school, every girl dreamed of marrying a Mr. Darcy! 💖 If you've seen the various adaptations of Pride and Prejudice, who do you think captured his essence best? For me, Colin Firth is the ultimate Darcy, perfectly embodying his brooding charm. Close behind is Will Kemp, whose delightful portrayal in Paging Mr. Darcy (the Hallmark movie) adds a modern twist to this beloved character.

Mr. Darcy and the Bennet women at Pemberley
From left: Mr. Darcy, Elizabeth, Mary, Jane, Kitty, Mrs. Bennet, Lydia

SENSE AND SENSIBILITY

As the rain poured down, a melancholic Marianne Dashwood lifted her arms, embracing the downpour as if to wash away her grief ...

My Corner of the World