Multiple Birthday Parties!

This year's birthday was celebrated multiple times...as usual? Haha. Started off with a dinner with classmates and lecturers at Fullhouse, The Hills. It was originally a dinner to thank our lecturers for all their help after our exams. There's another classmate who shares the exact birthday, down to the year, with me so they got us a cake. My gay classmate also baked us a cake....wow. First time someone has actually baked a cake for me....

Then I had a birthday party at home with close friends...a lot of people didn't make it as they were away or had prior engagements already, but it's ok. I'm kind of past that stage where I actually care how many ppl turn up. Of course, it's best when more friends can join the celebration, but can't help it at times. It was rather stressful for the family as everyone had their own jobs to do for the dinner. I was mainly in charge of the groceries, picking up of the food and cake ordered from Mr. Ho's and just general coordinating. My father contributed a dish of crabs that he bought from Sematan. My mum was in charge of the tuna bake pasta and green salad. Brother was the head chef who dealt with the aglio olio pasta and potato salad. Grandma baked chicken too. I rank the lowest in the kitchen and was relegated to menial tasks such as slicing, prepping and etc. From Mr. Ho's, we had roast pork knuckle (which wasn't fresh and refunded), crispy pork and a moist chocolate cake (which they got from a 3rd party baker). 

Besides the usual food and chatting, when it came to time for the birthday cake, my brother made me drink a shot of Patron tequila to start off the night :P. Interestingly, my father's friend who joined us, has learned a little bartending and is interested in wines and alcohol. He showed us a few tricks and tips for bartending and mixed up a few tequila based drinks. So I kind of had imported entertainment from Johor. Haha!

First shot of the birthday

After a quick change, it was off to Backstage with the brother and Alyssa, his girlfriend in tow. Allan had organized a birthday party for me...and it was mostly just the guys this time. Seriously a year of firsts, as this is the first time someone had organized a birthday party for me...very touched. The big brothers were all there, and we had tequila and played drinking games. There was no cake but there were cake slices from Hilton :) And I even had a stripper! Haha..sort of. The guys pointed out the most buff guy among them and told them he had to take off his shirt for me and he did! Seriously good body with six-pack and buff arms....way way better than the Singapore stripper we saw in SG for Sun's hen's night. Haha and that was just the upper body!

A very loud birthday song...thanks guys... see I was so happy!

My brother was sadly the main culprit in getting me drunk though. He kept bringing over assorted drinks and insisting I drink. Then after getting tipsy, I made a request for 'Bring the cute guys over!!' And so Alyssa brought over some guys and they made me drink more. So I definitely got drunk but thankfully Alyssa took very good care of me. Aaron and Alyssa brought me home and got me into the house but I don't know how I got myself up to my room... where I promptly passed out on my bed till the next morning...still with my dress, make-up, contacts and eyelashes. Haha...terrible. 

I woke up feeling pretty horrible with a queasy stomach...basically your birthday hangover. It kinda feels worse when you remember that you have yet another birthday party that night. Managed to recover in time for another birthday dinner, this time with the whole family, plus Dad's friend from the previous night and my uncle and auntie who had come in that day to visit my Grandpa. Seems to be tradition that I have Peking duck for my birthday...I just like the skin. *sinful* 

Then rushed home and off to Backstage again where this time we had the whole gang. Plus brother and Alyssa who joined late. I told them all that I could only manage 1 birthday drink instead of the usual 2....as I was still feeling weird from the night before. So I chose the 3 birthday shots as I didn't have to drink it at a go. Technically, I should...but I just didn't want to. So they ordered me the shots and I paced them with a 15-20 minute gap. Of course, I ordered a bottle of tequila and when Allan arrived later...he brought along a bottle of Patron. That made a total of 2 bottles of tequila but when we were all fairly drunk, some of them decided to keep the half bottle of tequila I ordered with the bar instead of letting us drink more. Plus, Allan was evil/kind enough to order a Flaming Lamborghini for me just after midnight. I admit to wanting to throw up straightaway and rushed to the toilet. After which, I felt more sober and normal. CY and the others got me a fruit tart from Hilton...which coincidentally was the one she got me for last year's birthday...haha Hilton does fruit tart promo in June every year? 

 With CY and Christy..thanks for the present and cake!

 Big brothers Julius and Chiang

Birthday shots - B52, Tequila and Slippery Nipple (ugh..the worst one) :P

With Aaron and Alyssa.. for getting me drunk and taking care of me..LOL

 Allan.. thanks for the birthday party and er..getting me drunk 

 My fruit tart that they got...plus a cake-holder..ahha

 Feeding brother...hey..shouldn't I be the 1 getting fed? It's my birthday! Bring me a cute guy to feed me

Proof that I drank the Flaming Lamborghini

Overall, fairly tiring weekend of birthdays, but I seriously had a lot of fun with everyone. And touched with all their efforts with the presents, parties and wishes. Felt very loved by all :) So thanks to everyone.. 

With this birthday...I feel that I've become a little more accepting of who I am. That I am still work in progress and there is still room to improve. There is so much more for me to learn in this world and that I seem to be a lot happier with my life. There's of course my new masters course and career that I'm just starting but am enjoying a lot. But generally I feel that I am happier with my life. Of course, it could be better, but I am still thankful for all that I have and what/who surrounds me. Though I am not as young as before, I feel more confident in myself and my looks and body. Haha....it helps when you have friends who are equally generous with their brutal honesty and appreciation of you. I've also learned a lot from my friends, both new and old ...especially about life. I think I've become even more open-minded, patient and relaxed? I rather prefer just enjoying the simple things in life... than to get overly stressed out over minor things. I just want to have fun...haha. So here's to growing older gracefully ...learning more and....staying young at heart. *big hugs to all!*

Why?

Just finished a group presentation for genre studies an hour ago and received some feedback on it, including our previous written assessments. Wasn't too happy with my marks as this is probably my favourite subject and well, I try to do well in it. But I definitely couldn't fault the lecturer's comments as they were true. Most of us in the class could analyse the texts well on their own, but we couldn't critically compare them with each other or to critically explain why we pinpointed those features of the text. We just did them because we had to. 

This is so similar to the mindset of the students most of us teach. They learn and do the things they do...simply because they HAVE to. Or so they think. In the current Malaysian education system, this may be the case, where we just have to learn these pre-set subjects and focus on these areas so we can do well in exams. But once students reach university, these concepts go out the window. In most good universities, critical thinking is crucial. This is also later seen in their future careers and life itself. We may be able to identify the problems or things to focus on....but the lecturers don't want to know what is the problem. They want to know, WHY is that the problem, and why is it important....and well...how do you fix it later? What are the consequences if you don't fix the problem...why do you fix it in such a way..and so on. We need to link the Why to What we do....

So, the most important question in studies and basically life in general...is...WHY?????

We get so caught up in our busy lives, trying to finish our never-ending to-do lists...trying to balance everything that we do, from life to playtime. But I think most of us tend to forget, why are we doing all that? Why do we work so hard everyday? Why do we slot in time to do some things..and leave out others? It becomes methodical and automatic for us to just make time for everything, but we never stop and think, is it really an important thing to do? Could we make do without doing that? If we turned down someone's request, would they really suffer without our help...or die? Why do we do things a certain way, and why not another way?

There's so much that I could actually write on. But basically, I think most of us have gotten so used to things that we never actually question ourselves...or question the status quo. I think I will try to live my life in such a way, that I should always ask myself 'WHY???' first before I do anything. Instead of just accepting something as it is...I should ask 'Why should I do it? Why is it important? Why is it done in such a way? Would another way be better?' and more. Basically, look at the big picture, instead of focusing on the small details right off the bat. 

So despite feeling bad about my marks, which were actually not too bad, but the competitive side of me refuses to accept them...I need to think of the big picture. Will I ever remember how I did for this assessment after some time, or will I remember that because of this, I was reminded to look at the big picture? I think, I will be more likely to remember that I need to think of the 'Why?' in life, or anything at all. Always think critically and try to link what we notice to what we learn. Not to accept status quo or things as they are. There is never 1 set rule for doing things, coz different people see and do things differently and we just have to accept that. So sometimes, we need to think out of the box and be open to various possibilities. So one month later, I probably won't remember that I got 10.5 out of 15...but I will try to open my mind to the big picture. It helps that I'll be in Bali, this time next month. Hehehe. :)

Will Anyone?

After doing so much for others...running around organizing things for them...making them happy.... when it's my turn, will anyone bother to even remember? Will they actually do something, or just leave it up to me, the person who can handle it all? Will I be forced to have to plan something for myself..as I usually do?

Perhaps I should do a little experiment. For a change, I shouldn't plan anything, and see if anything happens. I guess that will tell me where I stand with the people in my life right? After all, not quite in the mood to be doing anything....plus...it's usually tricky to organize. Ah well....we'll see when it comes.

True Love?

Never ever think that you're not good enough for someone else. If you get told that, tell them to go screw themselves. Coz baby, you're worth it..and more! You should always think that you're an awesome person. Coz in your own way, you are. Everyone of us should love ourselves more before loving someone else. How can you expect someone to love you if you don't even love yourself?

Don't say that you can't match up to someone because of what qualification/monetary status they might have. If you really think about it..isn't it just paper? In the end, when you leave this world, can you bring those with you?  What is more important, is your personality, the actions you do and how you spent your time on this earth. That's what people will remember about you. In every relationship of any sort, whether it is a friendship, girl-boy relationship, teacher-student.... it is both parties who will bring something to the table. It is never a one-way street. Even if people say that the students just takes knowledge from the teacher...that is so not true after just 3 months of teaching. You can learn quite a lot from your students...maybe not book knowledge, but how you see things or react to situations. Sometimes their honesty and varying point of views make you open your eyes to new possibilities of doing things or situations. 

So, you should always remember that even though it might seem like you're not up to someone's standards, even tho they have never said anything about it....you have your own unique experience/knowledge and contribution to be shared with them....everyone is special...no 2 people are exactly alike, so why can't you appreciate your own colour? 

I think people fall into the trap of treating any relationship as a trade and barter thing. If you get something from someone, you need to give them something in return. That's not how a relationship or love works. Real love is when you give something to them without expecting anything in return. You're doing something because you love them, not because you want something in return. Plus, if you're doing/giving something... don't judge the value based on monetary worth or size or scale.... it's not about how much it costs.... but more of your feelings. It could be a really cheap handmade gift that you spent a lot of time making...but I'm sure your loved one will appreciate it way more than an expensive gift that you spent 5 minutes picking out. Super cliched but it really is the thought and effort that matters more to someone. 

For example, if you asked me to choose between an expensive 3-star Michelin dinner and a personally cooked meal from the guy I like....of course I'm picking the expensive dinner. Joking!.. I'd definitely pick the home cooked meal. You can always earn back the money you've spent...but you can never get back the time spent on something....

The whole point of being with someone...is because you love and accept them. Not because they are clever, rich, successful, handsome, funny.....those are good criteria a person can have. But you should love someone because you accept them completely for who they are... both their strengths and weaknesses. There shouldn't be a reason for loving someone. You just love them, plain and simple.That means, if you appear in front of them with your hair in a mess, no make-up and slouchy clothes...and they still want to spend time with you...that's real acceptance. It's not real if you expect to keep up your perfect facade in front of them all the time, and hide your 'flaws'. Everyone has flaws....so we should just learn to accept them. If they really love you, they can accept it..why can't you do the same, right? I think most of the people in my life have probably seen me in super 'i don't care about appearance' mode...and haven't really batted an eye. If they did, I'd know that they aren't real friends....haha. 

Hmm..my recent posts are starting to make me feel like some self-help guru wannabe...ahaha. I don't know... in my busiest moments..i get struck by these random thoughts and decided to write them here. Partly for my own future reference..and also to express my opinions ..since i hear a lot of these things from surrounding people.

Team Delena

Whoa! What happened to blogger? Confusing new layout...but i digress. So, Vampire Diaries readers/viewers would obviously know what i'm talking about. Heck yeah, i'm on Team Delena! Not sure what i'm talking about? I've been telling everyone I know to watch Vampire Diaries, coz it's freaking good. Every episode leaves you shocked/stunned/amazed...with all the twists the writers throw at you weekly. It helps that the actors are all gorgeous in their own ways...but they are really good too...you can't help but feel for their characters, the way they want you to.

So, Team Delena...of Elena, the main lead girl who's good, strong and well...everyone falls in love with her. Has a tendency to be boring...Hmm..i see similarities in myself..except the ppl falling in love with her part. Haha! And well...she fell in love with Stefan Salvatore, the good vampire brother....but had lots n lots of chemistry and sexual tension with the 'bad' vampire brother, Damon Salvatore. Being me, of course you guys know which brother is my fave! The broodingly smouldering Damon of course! His eyes are really something..but there's just something about him. He comes off as evil to everyone...but Elena is the one who always sticks up for him....coz he's not really THAT bad. Story of my life!...

In the latest episode, which I took a short break from work/studies to catch up on, 'Heart of Darkness' Ep19 of Season 3....was a total treat for Delena fans. Not to give it all away...but i thought there were some compelling quotes from that episode. 

Elena: Why don't you ever let anyone see the good in you?

Damon: When people see good, they expect good. And I don't wanna live up to anyone's expectations.

Rose: It's not just that she makes him a better person. And she does. But he changes her too. Damon challenges her, surprises her. He makes her question her life, beliefs. Stefan is different. His love is pure. He'll always be good for her. Damon is either the best thing for her, or the worst.

Rose took the words right out of my mouth...not necessarily about Damon...but basically about what i kinda look for in a guy. Damon kinda embodies that in some ways. I like guys who can teach me..about life, about seeing things differently, living life to the fullest. That I shouldn't be too complacent about things, but continually challenge myself to be better, more innovative and keep improving on myself. Of course, these kinda guys...aren't always easy to be with...or they come with baggage...or...just unattainable for me! I agree...that the things/people you learn the most from, tend to be those who are both the best or worst thing in your life. They can bring you happiness...but bcoz you care about them...they also have the most power to hurt or destroy you.

Still, I don't like guys who are 'square' and follow the rulebook to a T and thinks Mummy is always right. If we just live life listening to what others tell us to do...that's not OUR life..that's theirs. If our seniors/parents/family tells us something wrong..we have to be able to stand up and say..'hang on...that's not right.' It's not being rude..it's being honest about something when we should be. Part of life.

Short Life Lessons

Listening to some recent albums by Xiao Zhu, Anthony Neely, Madonna, Rihanna, Katy Perry and Pixie Lott. Their songs, along with some recent incidents reminded me of some things.

No matter how bad things get, you just have to suck it up and carry on. No matter how much you mope/whine/cry about it...life will still move on without you. Might as well go with the flow, or risk getting left behind in the past. Time and tide waits for no one.

Even if things seem hard, we just have to try our best. It is better to have given something our 100%, rather than to sit still and not try at all, just because we're afraid of being wrong or laughed at. Better to have tried something than to just be an onlooker in life. We'll never learn anything that way. Even if we fail, we just have to pick ourselves up and try again. If we keep trying, we'll reach our goal one day. 

If something seems too difficult at the moment, take a moment to breath and maybe think things through. Maybe things will seem better or different after a short break. We can't expect to be experts and get everything done in one single shot. Some things just need to be done a step at a time, or slowly plugging through it. Slow and steady does it. After all, Rome wasn't built in a day!

So what if that guy isn't responding to you? Or so what if that job/opportunity passed you by? Something/someone even better may be just around the corner. Sometimes we tend to think too much about what we missed out on, that we fail to realise that something new is right in front of us. Like they say, if you stare too long at the closed door, you don't notice the other doors opening around you. Always keep your eyes peeled for opportunities/new things!

Reckless

After all the things I have done...or decided in my life, I think some people might describe me as reckless. Or perhaps flighty. After all, I spent 9 years studying and working as an engineer..and now I'm studying and working to be an English teacher. But okay, despite the career switch, I think there are many things that even my closest friends would shake their heads at. 

I don't know why, but I somehow find myself having to justify or explain my reasoning in this blog. I'm kinda lazy to do it in real life, because there are probably too many people to do so. Writing it here, would help me to recall back to the incidents and go...oh..that's right. So yes, back to why all the 'recklessness?' Once again, it's back to my theory, life is short! We seriously have no clue as to how long we are meant to be on earth for. I don't want to be in the last few days of my life and think back on everything that i've done...and have any regrets. I want to look back on days gone by and smile or laugh at everything that occurred. Sure, I'd probably cringe at a few, probably because of how silly I was or how embarrassing they might have been. But, at least I tried, that's more important.

I believe in seizing the opportunity or moment as they come. I can't keep thinking, I'll save that for tomorrow...I'll see that person or tell him/her tomorrow... I'll do that another day. What if tomorrow never comes? What if that is the last time you'll see that person? What if that opportunity never comes around again? Then you'd feel really bad that you didn't do it right when you thought of it. Sometimes we tend to overthink things and end up not making a move. Why? Because we are afraid of how we might come across, or how others view us. I say, screw all that and if you want to do something, just do it! 

Even though people think that I just jump into things sometimes, I don't. I am actually someone who does think a lot about things...weighing it out carefully..considering the pros and cons...costs etc. But nowadays, I'm slowly changing to be more....impulsive or relaxed. These days, my main thought process is, if I do this...will I regret it? If I don't do this, will I regret for not taking the chance? Will I keep thinking about it? After I've answered all these, then I'll either do it or not. I'll deal with the consequences later when they come. Sometimes you just have to go with your gut feel. The brain is meant to be logical...but the heart can be stronger.

I think these pictures kinda sum it up....

Labels

Labels. What am I going on about today? You know how people tend to 'label' their relationships with others after a certain stage? You know, like....acquaintances, friends, best friends, BFFs, girlfriend, boyfriend, lover, friends with benefits, mistress, rival, enemy, and so on....

I think the moment you label your relationship, it starts getting messy and potentially primed for problems. Once you assign a label to the relationship, you start having expectations from it. But the other party may not respond the way you want..or feel the same way. Hence, the beginning of issues! It's like once you have expectations, you start to think, oh, they should treat you this way, or 'give' something to you. It should be a give and take thing..it does take 2 to be in a 'relationship' of any sort.

But yet, I kind of understand why we do label our relationships. We have this tendency to want to classify the things in our life. Pay attention to the things/people we value more, and kinda ignore the rest, since we're all fighting against time. So those people with the 'higher' labels would of course have more of our time. It's somewhat of a security thing as well. We want the label so that we are clear about what is going on between the 2 people. For example, the girl would normally ask, "So, are we boyfriend n girlfriend now?" She asks this because she wants to be reassured that she is the only girl the guy is seeing, or else she'd be thinking that the guy is playing with her or just wasting her time and invested efforts/emotions. But this usually results in 2 situations...either the guy sees her as a girlfriend...or not. Very loaded question with lots of potential of heartbreak.

Some people tend to ask, so who is so and so to you? Why do you treat them that way, why do you hang out/why don't you hang out with them? Why don't you work out what is going on between you guys? They find it confusing that I don't always have a label for all my friends. I think after many previous incidents, I've felt that it is usually easier and less messy to not label every single relationship. Of course, it's easy to label the clear-cut ones...like 'i don't like that girl, so she's not my friend'. But other friendships that don't necessarily fall under any specific category, why bother to crack my head over how to label them? I'd rather just enjoy the relationship/companionship as it is. No need to go and ask, "Hey, so what is our relationship? Friends? Besties? Best Friends Forever? Sisters from another mother?"

I think it's more important to look at the big picture than to worry about minor details like that. Like I said, life is short. For all we know, it could really be the end of the world this yr, and we're stressing ourselves over minor details like how do I refer to this person in my life. They have a name, so we just need to say, this is 'Top, my friend,' or that's 'Jessica, the girl I really can't stand.' (Using Kpop stars as examples here..haha!) Easier to just use the basic labels, that they are your friend/not your friend.

Life is already hard and complicated enough without having all these labels...we should just enjoy what we have and take it a day at a time. Just let things happen as they come...get to know the person well..accept them for who they are and how they help you grow as a person. Can't always look at people and think, so what can I get from them today? What benefits do I get from being their friend/girlfriend/bestie etc? Whatever benefits may come your way as a result, should be a BONUS, not the main reason of the relationship. I sometimes feel that I am so pampered by my friends, that I worry how I can repay them...I don't take care of them enough?

But once again, I don't expect everyone to agree with me. I may just be weird this way. *shrugs* Read this if you wanna know more

http://www.howtogetoverarelationship.com/relationship-advice/

Obsessed!

Currently obsessed with Chocolate Truffle Cake from Hilton....or generally any chocolates....gosh.. Champagne and truffles....sure am being pampered. Going to be super spoiled soon! Gonna be super fat now..i need to head back to gym. But will need to work out my timing...sigh..busy busy with work and studies. I think i may be burning the candle at both ends and may crash out soon. Thank God for the school holiday this week. But heading into the peak period for both work and studies....wish me luck!!

Random relationship musings

I guess I may be different from most other girls in my thinking. Just coz you flirt or spend time with a guy, doesn't mean it will end up being a relationship. Sure, that is the aim of most people, to flirt and eventually find a 'right' or 'good' guy. But to go into it with just that aim in mind, is pretty restricting to me. Personally, I don't mind flirting or spending time with a guy, without looking beyond that. Sure, if it works out, that's best. If not, I still am pretty alright with things, as long as I'm happy, or I enjoyed the experience.

I believe in enjoying the present, living in the moment and taking things as they come. Everything else beyond the present, just let it come. I am known to be a worrywart when it comes to planning my future, but in regards to boy-girl relationships...after all that I've been through, all the complications, I've learned that there is no right or wrong, nothing much that can be planned so far in advance. It's easy to judge others for whatever they do. You may say, "Why did they do that? How can they be so etc etc." But when the situation comes and you find yourself in the similar predicament, it's hard to say much about it. 

Things happen without you expecting it and for a reason, somehow, no matter how weird/shitty/messed up it can be. Life is unexpected, never say you will never go through or do that. I guess I view everything that happens as a learning experience, so as to not repeat my mistakes. It does make me grow and change my perceptions/thinking about certain issues. I think I have stopped judging what others do and become more open-minded. Of course, I may express my concern over things, but never to say what is right or wrong. But maybe to tell them, to keep their eyes open and be careful. Take things as they come, one step at a time. There is no rush or 'right' timing.

Over the last few years, I've gotten a lot of flak about who I hang out with and what I've done or am doing. Honestly, if you aren't someone I care about, I could care less about what you think. Of course, it starts becoming a concern when family and close friends start talking about it. Yet, I do realise, that most of them may not be as open-minded as I am about things. Something I may not think is a big deal, is a huge issue for them, maybe because they're slightly more traditional about it. My response? Life is short, why do we need to get worked up over things like that, when we should be living it up. Enjoy life to the fullest, try out every experience possible, as long as we're not doing anything illegal, or hurting people. Relationships between a guy and a girl, as long as they know what they're doing, and the consequences...is between the two of them. 

I no longer believe in living based on what others say you can or can't do. Seriously, who are these people to be able to dictate all that we do? Who are they to make the rules? Besides, I think most rules are meant to be broken. It is MY life, so it's MY rules.  As long as I am happy with what I have, and what I'm doing and I'm not hurting anyone, then I'll do things as I please. Again, life is seriously too short to worry about what others think. Make yourself happy before making others happy, even if they are your significant other. You should always love yourself before someone else. After all, before and during marriage, you are your own person. Even after marriage, you are still a person, not just the partner of whoever it is. With my current schedule, I have no free time to waste on thinking about the haters. You can't please everyone so just forget them. 

If only....

I know this would seem rather random, especially since I haven't updated in so many months? But I suddenly thought of these...like..what would I want to do with my boyfriend..if I had one! Haha...just thought I'd jot them down so that I can remember to do them when i do get one...LOL

- Piggy back ride from him
- Holding hands while window shopping etc...
- Holding his hand while he leads me across the road (coz I'm honestly not too good at crossing roads!)
- Back hug
- Randomly hold each other's waist
- Just hugging each other tightly
- Being able to tell him 'Oppa, saranghae!' and do the cheesy heart shape with my fingers or arms to him
- Take cute/sweet photos to my heart's content
- Wear couple shirt, use couple perfumes etc...just plain being able to buy a couple set of something!
- Allowing me to sniff his new cologne on his neck
- Letting me 'dress' him up like a real life Ken doll
- Hold hands n being able to lean on his shoulder while watching a movie :)
- To be able to buy each other surprise presents just for no reason at all...doesn't even have to be anything big
- Accompany me to fangirl at Xiao Zhu's concert etc though he might be jealous

Haha..kinda silly right? But sometimes it's really the small things that matter and makes us happy. Will add more if I can think of them and hopefully I can achieve some...sometime soon?...LOL...

Vainpot

I just read Lin's latest update about changing her hair for CNY, so I thought I'd finally show my new hair, which I also did for CNY. I went back to Kuching last weekend for a close friend's wedding and decided to kill 2 birds with 1 stone by getting my hair done for the dinner as well as for CNY. So, tada, here it is!

I got my hair dyed a brownish-red, don't know what's the exact colour code, but I got it done at my cousin's salon, Eric Salon and I've always been happy with how my hair turns out everytime I go there. I also got treatment done and they set it like this for me. Normally they set my hair slightly differently, but they were trying something new so I quite like it. Okay, to be honest, I think I finally look remotely hot? In the words of Leonard, I look like a woman?! (I have yet to whack him for this). In 'celebration' of looking hot, here are more pics!

Actually, when they first started dyeing my hair, I suddenly got the thought, would it end up looking like Ye Eun's of Wonder Girls? Lo and behold, it did. Check out my much much much prettier and hotter twin..lol

I think I can be forgiven for being vain this time, since there are actually very very few pictures of just me myself and I on this blog. Anyway, I won't look like this everyday, since I am unable to style my hair in the professional way they can. Haha! Okay, to bring me back to the ground and stop being vain, I have to admit one thing....I actually have glasses!...

They are actually 25 degrees for normal use, but most importantly, 25 degrees in the vertical plane to fix my astigmatisme. Why did I get glasses if its only 25 degrees? Well, most people have astigmatisme in the horizontal plane and they can just squint their eyes to focus better, but since my eyes are sooooo unique, mine is in the vertical, so it doesn't change anything if I squint. I'm only supposed to use my glasses mostly in the afternoons when my eyes get more tired or if I'm doing fine detail work. So yeah.

Okay, since I may have scarred some of your eyes, I shall leave you with some REAL hotness..ahahah..well..at least I think so..as well as countless other fan girls..LOL!!

None other than the completely hot but also adorkable TOP/Choi Seung Hyun...

Cotton Candy

I just had to blog about this. Been feeling rather depressed, demotivated and unhappy these days. Mostly about the workload, how there is so much to do, both at work and in my personal life. It sucks having to be the eldest, having to take care of everything :P.

Anyway, this song was just released as a digital single yesterday and I was really expecting it to be trot, considering it's Dae Sung and all. But I was pleasantly surprised to find that it's kinda old school, you know like back in the 60-80's, that type of sweet love song. But like its title and lyrics, the melody just makes you think of simpler times, like days with just the right amount of sunlight and you have all the time in the world to just lie on your back and imagine what those fluffy clouds look like to you etc. Or picnics, a trip to the fair, or just taking a walk hand-in-hand with the guy you like. Haha..actually..stuff I've never really done. But yea, it just gives you that feeling. So i guess it's suitable to lift my mood now.

Enjoy!

And here are the lyrics with translation!

Verse1

따스한 저 햇살과 함께 그대 손을 잡고서

ddaseuhan jeo haessalgwa hamkkae geudae soneul jabgoseo

Holding your hand in the warm sunshine

라 라랄라 노랠 부르며 달콤한 데이트

lalalalla norel bureumyeo dalkomhan daiteu

We sing Lalalala as we go on our sweet date

그대란 마음의 설탕 한스푼

geudaeran maeumeh seoltang han seupoon

One spoon of sugar with your heart

어 느새 구름처럼 커진 내마음

eoneusae kureumcheoreom keojin nae maeum

And before I know it, my heart has become as big as a cloud

Chorus

그 대는 솜사탕 내맘이 녹아요

geudaeneun somsatang nae mami nogayo

You’re like cotton candy, My heart melts

몽실몽실 그대 보고만 있어도 녹아요

mongshil mongshil geudae bogoman isseodo nogayo

Just looking at your fluffy face makes me melt

Verse2

불면 날아갈까 손대면 녹을까

bulmyeon naragalkka sondaemyeon nogeulkka

What if I blow and you fly away, what if I touch you and you melt

눈 깜빡 사라지면 너무 아쉬워

nun kkamppak sarajimyeon neomu ashiweo

I’m so disappointed when you disappear with the blink of an eye

그대는 솜사탕 입술에 녹아요

geudaeneun somsatang ibsurae nogayo

You’re like cotton candy, You melt on my lips

살짝 입맞춘 그대와 날아가볼까

saljjak immachun geudaewa naragabolkka

Should I fly away with you, our lips gently touching

그대는 솜사탕 내 맘이 녹아요

geudaeneun somsatang nae mami nogayo

You’re like cotton candy, my heart melts

몽 실몽실 그대 보고만 있어도 녹아요

mongshil mongshil geudae bogoman isseodo nogayo

Just looking at your fluffy face makes me melt

Bridge

코 끝에 간질간질 그대가 좋아서

kokkeutae ganjilganjil geudaega joaseo

The tip of my nose is tingly tingly, because I like you

그대는 솜사탕

geudaeneun somsatang

You’re like cotton candy

Chorus

그대는 솜사탕 입술에 녹아요

geudaeneun somsatang ibsurae nogayo

You’re like cotton candy, You melt on my lips

살짝 입맞춘 그대와 날아가볼까

saljjak immachun geudaewa naragabolkka

Should I fly away with you, our lips gently touching

그대는 솜사탕 내 맘이 녹아요

geudaeneun somsatang nae mami nogayo

You’re like cotton candy, my heart melts

몽실몽실 그대 보고만 있어도 녹아요

mongshil mongshil geudae bogoman isseodo nogayo

Just looking at your fluffy face makes me melt

녹아요 녹아요

nogayo nogayo

I melt, I melt

Translation Credits: sjay.x @ BBVIP

Big Bang/Boyfriend Quiz Part 2

Which Big Bang boyfriend would you want in these situations? Part 2

1. When I buy him clothes as a present and he doesn't like it…

a. TOP: smiles and lies trying to compliment it saying it’s pretty

b. GD: takes my hand and goes to the shopping mall explaining why he must exchange it for his fashion purposes

c. YB: smiles and tries to start a different conversation

d. DS: gets overly excited and exaggerates his thanks

e. SR: wears it on the spot and jumps up and down the sidewalk

It's nice that he'll still try to appreciate the effort though he doesn't like the present. But yea, it'll be better if he can explain neutrally or drop some hints as to what he would actually like. I'd seriously whack GD if he went all high n mighty or insulted about my taste :P

2. When I am jealous due to his relationship with one of the female celebrities on TV

a. TOP: holds my hand.

b. GD: explains logically says its not true… then goes on TV and explains to the world its not true as well.

c. YB: stutters trying to explain continously, then sighs saying he’s sorry

d. DS: laughs and seeings ‘Look at Me GwiSoon’ with my name in it instead

e. SR: Acts cute and says “Are you being jealous right now~!?’ in a cute voice

Yes, GD please do tell the whole world that you don't belong to a girl hotter than me. Haha! But sometimes actions speak louder than words so score for TOP. And Dae Sung singing that song would totally crack me up and make me forget about being jealous.

3. When I’m away from my phone and another guy sends me a text hitting on me

a. TOP: deletes the guys number

b. GD: presses ‘Call’ on the number right away.

c. YB: pretends he didnt see it but gets quiet

d. DS: tells me i got a text and gives me suspicious looks

e. SR: smiles and lets it go infront of me, then goes home and tracks the guy down texting him evil messages

Hahah..it's nice if they're that possessive but I think it'll be a bit too much too. If they're gonna be like that, they have to be upfront about it with me too though, not just with the guy. C'mon, if I were really with one of them, I think it'll be hard for another guy to have a chance..ahha.

4. When he comes to my house without a word but I look like a ‘pain’ (no shower, havent washed hair, sweats, etc etc)

a. TOP: Washes my hair for me

b. GD: Makes me a schedule on ‘how to not be a pain’ and makes me write a written oath that i will never be a ‘pain’ again

c. YB: lies to me and tells me he hasnt washed his hair for 4 days either

d. DS: sits down on my couch like nothings wrong and watches Dorraemon

e. SR: Gets too shocked and scared that he cant even come in the house

I would so kill GD and SR in this case. And OMG...TOP washing my hair..i would totally freak out, but that's really nice of him. Guess it shows that he's willing to still be with you and even touch you! And Dae Sung..though it seems like he's oblivious, but at least he's not running away so it shows that he's with you not coz of your looks.

5. When I get a sickness and must die the next day

a. TOP: treats me like the normal days but never lets go of my hand

b. GD: swallows/hides his tears and says “Lets live today to the fullest/Until the day ends lets live like no tomorrow”

c. YB: ends up crying and doesnt know what to do

d. DS: pretends he didnt hear and keeps making me laugh

e. SR: cant stop crying and just keeps taking pictures with me

I'd probably be so devastated already, so please don't freak out on me too. Though Seung Ri can't stop crying, at least he's trying to make memories of us together. Making me laugh? Not a bad way to go I guess. Haha, but seriously, TOP and his actions...whoaaa...he's just blowing the others out of the competition by being the strong, manly yet sensitive enough guy. I guess GD would let me do all the stuff I'd wanna do before I go.

6. When he walks in on me cheating on him with someone else

a. TOP: without a word, punches the guy and takes me with him

b. GD: gives me his ring (couple ring), cellphone and walks out without a word

c. YB: makes a conversation with all of us

d. DS: says “Oops, got in the wrong place” and walks out

e. SR: gets very mad and cant control his anger so he throws and breaks furniture

Ohh...awkward.....I'd be really scared of TOP (have you seen how he looks sometimes when he's trying to be all killer-like such as in IRIS, its freaking scary), but if he's still willing to take me away, that would be great. Hopefully it was more of the other guy's fault though..heh. Anyway, its better that he shows his anger rather than just keeping it in.

7. When meeting my parents and they don't like him

a. TOP: goes on his knees

b. GD: says “(name) is pregnant”

c. YB: smiles and says he wants to marry his first love

d. DS: tries to earn points by singing ‘Look at me Gwisoon’

e. SR: kisses me infront of my parents and shouts “(name) IS MY LADY!”

Young Bae is sweet and all but erm, first love? I'd be kinda worried at that though, hehe. But that's just me. I guess my parents would think Dae Sung is weird for singing at such a time, but I bet they'd be amused after awhile, its such a cute song. And I think my dad would probably kill Seung Ri for kissing me in front of them...what more to say GD...he'd just be crumbs after that outburst. TOP seems the most appropriately sincere one here..ahha. After all, guys aren't supposed to kneel in front of girls unless they're proposing or asking for forgiveness?

8. When he sees that I’m in the audience while he's performing

a. TOP: never takes his eyes off me until his performance ends

b. GD: ignores me because i make him nervous and focuses on making the performance perfect for me

c. YB: is so happy that he keeps smiling and messes up his dance

d. DS: puts in customized moves by him for me

e. SR: acts cute infront of the camera

I wouldn't want them to mess up their performance for me, but no ignoring my presence either. And what the heck Seung Ri? Are you acting cute for me or for your fans? And any girl would totally melt with TOP's unwavering gaze on you, especially with him singing. Customized moves for me? OMO, Dae Sung would just win any girls heart.

9. When I tell him I’m going to get plastic surgery

a. TOP: pretends he didnt hear and secretly slides a picture of ’surgery-gone-wrong’ pictures for me to see

b. GD: gives me his credit card

c. YB: tells me im more beautiful now and says no.

d. DS: insists if i do it, hes definitely doing it too

e. SR: listens to me and then makes fun of me

And once again, actions speak louder than words in the case of TOP but Young Bae is pretty good too. I'd seriously kill GD in this case. SR would get a good whacking too.

10. When I say I'm going to a resort for university

a. TOP: tells me to have fun and come back

b. GD: keeps asking me if guys are gonna be there too

c. YB: says its okay but you see him starting to pout without realization

d. DS: suddenly gives me Doraemon and tells me to think of him when i look at this

e. SR: says “Take me too”

Awww...TOP is the best, shows that he trusts me totally. And can Dae Sung get any cuter? I'd really bring it to hug to sleep though I'm no Doraemon fan. It'll be fun to bring my bf along too, though it may be fun to go with just your friends. Maybe Seung Ri can fit in a really big suitcase. haha.

11. When watching a movie together and it's some serious 19+ sexual content…

a. TOP: tries to switch the mood by being funny

b. GD: ……asks jokingly “…can you do that?”

c. YB: cheeks turn red, starts pourring nose bleed and faints

d. DS: “oh fun stuff~” and enjoys it

e. SR: suddenly whips his head around and looks at me

Major awkward moment here. But I think laughter would be the best remedy here ahah. It'll be kinda weird if he enjoys it too much or if he wants me to do the same...but it'll be the worst thing if he gets a nosebleed and faints from it...too innocent..AHAHHA.

Final score:

TOP: 10

GD: 4

YB: 0

DS: 5

SR: 3

Wow, only 1 answer off from TOP. Haha..and Dae Sung is no.2 again. Guess I'm quite consistent huh? But seriously 0 from Young Bae? Guess he's really too nice a guy for me. He has that whole image of being the gentleman, sweet, caring and rather innocent. He's never had a girlfriend before, so not really what I'd go for. Hehe, I don't want to be the one to corrupt him. Give me someone who's just the right amount of corrupted, like TOP. GD is just too much for me to handle i think. Haha.

TRANSLATION CREDIT: 1tymforyomind and bigbangnyuh @SOOMPI TAKEN FROM: bigbangkorean.wordpress.com

Big Bang Quiz - Boyfriend type?!

‘Which Big Bang boyfriend would you want in these situations?’ Part 1

I think this also applies to any guy. As in, this quiz kinda shows what type of boyfriend you'd like.

1. When I fall and hurt myself
a. Choi Seung Hyun, who gives me a piggy back ride to the hospital
b. Kwon Ji Yong, who makes fun of me because I fell
c. Dong Young Bae, who runs to go buys medication
d. Kang Dae Sung, who helps me get home
e. Lee Seung Ri, who asks if it hurts a lot and blows on the place where it hurts

Technically, though I have the bad tendency to laugh at others when they fall (while simultaneously being worried), I wouldn't want my bf to laugh at me when I fall and hurt myself. If I fell in a funny way, I'd laugh at myself too, but not if I'm hurt. Young Bae and Dae Sung's ways are good too, but the 2 Seung Hyun's take the cake.

2. When I say I want a name brand item
a. Choi Seung Hyun, who buys a fake one and says later on, he’ll make it a real one
b. Kwon Ji Yong, who pretends not to listen but buys it for me later
c. Dong Young Bae, who promises to buy me one once he makes more money
d. Kang Dae Sung, who keeps saying not to buy expensive things
e. Lee Seung Ri, who keeps asking if he can buy me something else

Most ppl probably don't believe this but I am really not a brand name person. Especially extremely overpriced items like LV, Chanel, Gucci. So if TOP gets me a fake one, I could probably still pull it off as a real one. And it'll be sweet if he would work hard to buy me that present. Haha. If Ji Yong does that, it'll be sweet but I'd feel really guilty receiving the present. I'd need Dae Sung to stop me from spending too much on unnecessary things. Haha.


3. While watching a horror movie
a. Choi Seung Hyun, who protects me
b. Kwon Ji Yong, who quietly covers my eyes
c. Dong Young Bae, who comforts me by saying there’s nothing to be scared of
d. Kang Dae Sung, who holds my hand tightly
e. Lee Seung Ri, who screams even before i scream

It kinda sucks if the guy gets way scared before I am, you'd feel like the man in the relationship. I'd probably scream after he screams! As for Young Bae, I'd probably feel like I was being a baby by getting scared...so yes, please comfort me if I get scared, coz that doesn't happen all the time. I would like big shoulders to hide my eyes or nice arms to grab..so TOP and Dae Sung definitely qualify!


4. When my voice cracks while singing
a. Choi Seung Hyun, who pinches my cheek and says i’m cute
b. Kwon Ji Yong, who laughs at me
c. Dong Young Bae, who gets even more embarrassed than me
d. Kang Dae Sung, who pretends he didn’t hear it
e. Lee Seung Ri, who makes fun of me by imitating me

No, don't make fun of me in this situation. I'm already paranoid about sucking at things so it would be best if they brush it off or encourage me... and seriously who wouldn't want TOP to say they're cute..or be touched by him?!

5. When his friend says he likes me
a. Choi Seung Hyun, who says what are you trying to do and breaks ties with his friend
b. Kwon Ji Yong, who goes up and punches his friend
c. Dong Young Bae, who talks it out with his friend
d. Kang Dae Sung, who says he will introduce another girl to his friend
e. Lee Seung Ri, who stops talking to his friend

If I were in that situation, I'd choose friendship over a guy anytime. So I would hate to be the one to spoil a great friendship, believe me, it's a sucky feeling. Though I think any girl would be kinda flattered that you mean so much to them...

6. When I’m mad at my boyfriend
a. Choi Seung Hyun, who starts a serious talk by asking me if I’m mad
b. Kwon Ji Yong, who says I’m sorry and says don’t be mad
c. Dong Young Bae, who sings to me
d. Kang Dae Sung, who makes me laugh
e. Lee Seung Ri, who does cute stuff around me

Sorry TOP, but sometimes girls don't like to be asked that when they ARE mad. It's best if you just straightaway say you're sorry or do something to make me feel better.


7. When my boyfriend meets my friends
a. Choi Seung Hyun, who compliments me in front of my friends
b. Kwon Ji Yong, who asks my friends to watch over our relationship
c. Dong Young Bae, who makes me feel good by complimenting my friends
d. Kang Dae Sung, who makes my friends comfortable as if they were his friends
e. Lee Seung Ri, who asks my friends to consider him

Ohhh..who wouldn't feel happy if their bf compliments them in front of their friends, especially if you have hot friends. And coming from TOP? Whoaaa.. But I also like it when the guy takes the effort to get to know my friends and gets along well with them...and asking them to watch over our relationship..is sweet too.

8. On my birthday
a. Choi Seung Hyun, who takes me some place expensive
b. Kwon Ji Yong, who treats me better than other days
c. Dong Young Bae, who makes me a special present
d. Kang Dae Sung, who sings to me on a stage at a restaurant

e. Lee Seung Ri, who says happy birthday all day long cheerfully

I prefer a handmade present over a really expensive item...something that they put their effort and time to come up with..is really priceless. And i think if they keep telling me Happy Birthday all day long I probably would get annoyed after awhile. Heh.


9. When we kiss
a. Choi Seung Hyun, who hugs me tight first
b. Kwon Ji Yong, who just does it
c. Dong Young Bae, who asks first
d. Kang Dae Sung, who becomes awkward first
e. Lee Seung Ri, who asks if I can give him a kiss on the cheek and turns his head when I’m about to kiss his cheeks

Firstly I really prefer hugs...then its cute and cheeky of Seung Ri to do that..which I kinda like...Ji Yong's style..nothing too special..so..yeah.


10. When it’s raining and we only have one umbrella
a. Choi Seung Hyun, who shares the umbrella but he ends up getting wet
b. Kwon Ji Yong, who holds me really tight so both of us don’t get wet
c. Dong Young Bae, who give me the umbrella and he walks under the rain
d. Kang Dae Sung, who tells me to wait and go gets another umbrella
e. Lee Seung Ri, who just tosses the umbrella and have both of us to walk in the rain

Sharing is caring so it'll be nice to share umbrellas with them, coz you'll be all close and all that. Hehe. Of coz I don't want them to get sick....some ppl like just being in the rain, but hmm..not really a big fan..ehhe


11. When I say I want to break up
a. Choi Seung Hyun, who lets me go, saying he’s sorry he didn’t do much for me
b. Kwon Ji Yong, who is dumbfounded and says he never thought I’d break it off
c. Dong Young Bae, who asks if he can hug me one last time
d. Kang Dae Sung, who says farewell and lets me go, crying
e. Lee Seung Ri, who clings and anxiously asks why I’m acting like this suddenly

NoooO~~~~...how can i break up with them..I actually chose Young Bae, Dae Sung and Seung Ri in this case. BUt I was thinking, if I want to break up with them, then it means that I thought we couldn't work things out? In this case, TOP would be the best. But I think I'd like the guy to try to convince me to give him one more chance...


12. When we go to the amusement park
a. Choi Seung Hyun, who suggests to ride what I want to ride
b. Kwon Ji Yong, who suggests to go to the haunted house first
c. Dong Young Bae, who takes lots of pictures
d. Kang Dae Sung, who eats this and that
e. Lee Seung Ri, who forcefully takes me to scary rides

I'd appreciate being given the choice but knowing me, I'd just tell TOP that "I don't know, why don't you choose?" Haha and though I would be up for scary rides, he'd better not force me, but bribing with food etc is fine. Ooo and yes to lots of pics and eating..


13. When he is paying at a restaurant but has no money
a. Choi Seung Hyun, who is sorry but asks if I could pay for now
b. Kwon Ji Yong, who grabs my hand and runs
c. Dong Young Bae, who has them keep his belonging until he can pay
d. Kang Dae Sung, who calls his friend to bring some money
e. Lee Seung Ri, who is anxious and doesn’t know what to do

Seriously I don't mind going dutch, but if he's earning more than me then it'll be best if he pays. But I wouldn't mind treating him occasionally too. If his ego allows him to ask for my help, that shows that he's humble too. If the guy freaks out about this and runs away or doesn't know what to do, that's not good. Coz it shows that he'll run away from problems or be unable to resolve crisises.


14. When I talk to another guy
a. Choi Seung Hyun, who thinks it’s no big deal
b. Kwon Ji Yong, who tells me not to talk to other guys
c. Dong Young Bae, who can’t say anything but actually bothers him
d. Kang Dae Sung, who is curious and sneakingly wedges in the conversation
e. Lee Seung Ri, who later asks what we talked about

I have a lot of guy friends, being from engineering classes and all that so my boyfriend shouldn't worry about me hanging out with them. Its a big turn off if he tries to control who I talk to or what I talk about. I don't mind if they want to join in because they have something to contribute to the conversation, but not coz they're keeping an eye on me.


15. When he can’t reach me through the phone
a. Choi Seung Hyun, who says he’s worried
b. Kwon Ji Yong, who comes to my house right away
c. Dong Young Bae, who lets it by, thinking something must have happened
d. Kang Dae Sung, who calls until I pick up
e. Lee Seung Ri, who gets mad because I didn’t pick up

I hate guys who get worked up all over nothing so if they're a little worried but don't totally freak out about this, then its fine. It's kinda possessive and annoying if they have the reaction of Ji Yong, Dae Sung and Seung Ri.


16. When I tell him I love him
a. Choi Seung Hyun, who whispers in my ear that he loves me
b. Kwon Ji Yong, who kisses me
c. Dong Young Bae, who hugs me without saying a word
d. Kang Dae Sung, who smiles, embarrassed
e. Lee Seung Ri, who hugs me tightly, saying he loves me too

Aww..all the above except Dae Sung's reactions are great..but seriously the 2 Seung Hyuns win here. If you're gonna say those 3 words, of coz you'd like to hear it back right?


17. When we’re shopping
a. Choi Seung-Hyun, who says it’s boring and wants to go home already
b. Kwon Ji Yong, who picks out clothes for me
c. Dong Young Bae, who does everything I want to do
d. Kang Dae Sung, who impatiently follows me around
e. Lee Seung Ri, who enjoys shopping more than I do

I find it interesting to shop with guys who actually like shopping. Plus I've shopped with guys who like it more than me. It'll be cool if the guy actually picks out clothes for me, hopefully stuff that I would actually be able to wear or look good in, haha. If they don't like going shopping, they can stay at home, just don't come along and whine...


18. When I act cutely (like a kid)
a. Choi Seung Hyun, who thinks I’m cute and hugs me
b. Kwon Ji Yong, who says I’m not doing it right and shows an example
c. Dong Young Bae, who tells me to do that everyday
d. Kang Dae Sung, who just laughs
e. Lee Seung Ri, who copies me

It's just so wrong if they can act cuter than me, or think that they are. I may not like to be called cute all the time, but getting a hug for it (especially from TOP) more than makes up for it. Dae Sung laughing at me would probably make me laugh too, he's just so contagiously happy.


19. When we get held up by a gang
a. Choi Seung Hyun, who fights them
b. Kwon Ji Yong, who grabs my hand and runs
c. Dong Young Bae, who makes an effort to clear things out
d. Kang Dae Sung, who calls the cops
e. Lee Seung Ri, who leaves me and runs away

Any girl would like their bf to stand up for them, but I'd freak out if they were to fight the gang, what if they get hurt? So yes, running away or clearing things up are the best options. Leaving me behind and running away themselves = NOOOO

Final Score:

Choi Seung Hyun (TOP): 14

Kwon Ji Yong (G-Dragon): 8

Dong Young Bae (Tae Yang): 7

Kang Dae Sung: 9

Lee Seung Ri: 6

It's TOP who wins, not shockingly. I think like Xiao Zhu, he's pretty much like my ideal type of guy. Haha. BUt I'm a little surprised that Dae Sung is 2nd, then again, he's pretty funny and sweet from what I see in Family Outing and etc so okay.

TRANSLATION CREDIT: 1tymforyomind and bigbangnyuh @SOOMPI TAKEN FROM: bigbangkorean.wordpress.com

Big Bang

I think most people who've been around me lately probably already know that I've gotten really interested in K-pop lately. And especially in Korea's No.1 hip-hop band, BIG BANG!...To be honest, I've heard of them before but kinda dismissed them coz c'mon the name is a little..er.. Haha. But then at the gym, I happened to catch one of their vids, Strong Baby, which is actually a solo by one of their members and it was so catchy and addictive that I got interested in K-pop after that.

I started out with a lot of different artists but it was only after I caught this 'Gara Gara Go' video among some others that I really thought to check out Big Bang. I seriously should have known about them earlier, coz they are really really just my cup of tea. Catchy melodies, addictive beats, electronica/hip-hop/pop, meaningful lyrics, basically their music just appeals to me. And when you watch them perform, they have this charisma and swagger that they pull off very well. But they're not just charming singers, they're rather adorkable and hilarious too. Some of them appear on variety shows and well, they're really rather goofy and silly. Anyway, before I become even more fan-girly, I should just introduce the members, starting with my favourite! This is also in order of age...ahah

Stage Name: T.O.P (Singer Se7en gave it to him to mean that he would be Top of everything)

Real Name: Choi Seung Hyun

Position: Rapper, Beatbox, Lyricist, Composer

Notable for: Can be seen in KBS hit action-spy drama IRIS, naturally smoky-looking 'sexy/killer' eyes (95% of the time, it's not eyeliner but his eyelashes, girls should be envious), his power raps

My favourites: His solos, 'To Act Like Nothing Happened' and 'Big Boy', the songs he's featured in, Gummy's 'I'm Sorry' and Uhm Jung Hwa's 'DISCO'

Stage Name: Tae Yang, SOL (Tae Yang means the sun)

Real Name: Dong Young Bae

Position: Singer

Notable for: His solo mini album 'Hot' was a bestseller and won several awards. A really good dancer, with smooth vocals and a killer body. It's just too bad he's a little short :P

My favourites: His solos, 'Look Only at Me' and 'Wedding Dress'

Stage Name: G-Dragon (literal translation of his Korean name)

Real Name: Kwon Ji Yong

Position: Leader, Rapper, Composer, Lyricist

Notable for: His solo album 'Heartbreaker' was the Best Selling Album of 2009 in Korea, one of the youngest but prominent composers around. Tends to be involved in many controversies from plagiarism to performing 'indecent acts in front of minors' at his concert. Which was blown out of proportion in my opinion.

My favourites: Solo songs 'But I Love You', 'Look Only At me Part 2', 'A Boy', 'Heartbreaker'

Stage Name: D-Lite

Real Name: Kang Dae Sung

Position: Singer

Notable for: Permanent member of SBS variety show 'Family Outing', acted in Korea's version of CATS. Has an almost permanent grin on his face

My favourites: Solo song 'Look at me Gwisoon' (a trot song or Korean traditional music, written by G-Dragon) and Family Outing, which is absolutely hilarious

Stage Name: Seung Ri, V.I, Victory (Seung Ri means Victory in Korean)

Real Name: Lee Seung Hyun (Yes, same as TOP, hence the stage name)

Position: Singer

Notable for: Excellent dancer, has choreographed some of their dance routines, his never-ending confidence that sometimes makes the others pick on him. He likes older girls, hence his trademark 'Noona~~'

My favourites: Solo songs 'The Next Day' and 'Strong Baby'

But besides all of their solos that I like as above, of course there are the favourites from them as a group. And there are quite a lot. Seriously, they are catchy. Just give them a try, you can check them out on Youtube.

1. Lies (The song that really catapulted them into fame)

2. Haru Haru/Day by Day

3. Last Farewell

4. Sunset Glow

5. Crazy Dog

6. Gara Gara Go! (Japanese)

7. My Heaven

8. Lollipop (with 2NE1, their labelmates and considered the female Big Bang)

9. Always

10. Let me hear your voice (Japanese)

11. A fool's Only Tear

12. VIP

At the same time, see how goofy they can be. Here's my fave TOP on my fave variety show of the moment, Family Outing.

And here's TOP in IRIS, currently the most expensive drama ever made in South Korea and it was top of the ratings during its screenings. It's an action-spy drama, something different from those usual tear-jerker romantic/comedies, so do check it out.