American Lifestyle

People here talking about standard of living, concerning about professionalism and caring about healthy lifestyle. Nothing wrong to get a better life, but you have to splash out a lot. Despite normal living expenses, we paid extra for putting ourselves in their standard.

For example, dental care. Honestly, I only visit dentist once in year in Malaysia for teeth cleaning and examination. Usually, it cost me about RM 60-80. However, I did the examination in US this year. I was truly amazed by their professionalism; they take every single consequence into account. X-ray on every tooth, checking gums surface precisely. They even measure the plaque and stains before they removing it.

After 1 hour examination and consultation, I got my recommended treatment.


What the heck is this?

I don’t really understand the specific terms they are using but I know I need to pay Usd 353.60. Besides, the dentist suggested me to pull of all my wisdom teeth (I pulled off one, now only left 3). Damn, that will probably cost me few hundreds extra.

Body check up costs the same. We need to pay for the doctor first, and then pay for the lab again. Although insurance cover 80%, we still have to pay Usd 200++. Ya, insurance covers a lot for us, but excuse me, we pay monthly installment to insurance company too.

For sickness treatment, you have to buy medicines by your own in pharmacy or drugstore after visiting doctor. Doctors only provide you prescription. Imagine, you already half dead but still have to drive or walk to the drugstore!! This makes no sense to me.

Take a deep breath and relax a bit.
Don't wanna sound too heavy on this issue.


Snapped this along the way to dentist. The fountain was freezing. Now you know how dreadful the weather over here. It was under O Celsius (kinda pity the statue, staying out with nothing on it).

Ok, where are we? ohh, ya...

Another problem to live is US telecommunication system. You can’t do it like prepaid service in Malaysia. It’s contract base here. There are AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile and so on. Just like Maxis and Digi. Then, they will provide you free phone with minimum 2 years contract. All free phones are mostly outdated. If you want a better or newer model, you have to pay for upgrade. See, they charge again!

This is what I own now.


Sony Ericson W580i (pink) Usd 79.90 + 2 years contract with AT&T.

Now you understand why I stop giving pressie.

Despite the high expenses, I have to save up for many important events on February. This month is the best month in a year and I assure you, it’s going to be extremely happening! Yeah~~ wanna make a checklist for it.

Feb 1 -- Toefl’s result (damm nervous!!)
Feb 7 -- Gong Xi Fatt Cai everyone
Feb 9 -- My Birthday (mark your calendar NOW)
Feb 14 -- Sweet Valentine’s Day
Feb 21 -- Chap Goh Mei (Chinese Valentine’s Day)
Feb 25 -- GMAT exam (not a celebration T.T)

Guess it’s a hectic month for blogger too! Going to record all these events one by one. The list above is just to serve as an introduction.

Hahaha…

Congratulations

Buddies, remember the Whoopee Cushion? Gift for the best comment on January. Congratulations to Kangai !! You just won this!!


Thanks for supporting Beverly's Secret. Treat this as your first year anniversary present with Jennifer. wakaka..

Pardon me? What did you say?
Corruption? Ohhh...hahaha...
Yup, it is. This is bribe (hit me if you can).

hahahaha...

Cheer up. I still got something sweet to offer this month!

A cute 4R album (24 photos) for Valentine's Day.

However, I'm kind of sad to announce that this is the last gift from me to you. Sigh, I so want to continue this but Beverly is broke on February every year(T.T). Stay tuned if you wanna know the reasons. Perhaps no one will read my blog anymore from this moment on. But, i know you are not reading for the pressie's sake. kekeke...

See you in a bit.

Sawadee

Ehhmmm...
Don't treat my blog as a food's blog or something!

My first intention of creating this blog is to share my daily lifestyle in States. I wasn't expecting I eat so much lately (any shaping cream or weight loss pills to recommend?).

Hmm...Whatever. I bet you can’t get rid of the temptation either!

This Thai restaurant, Chai Yo is just few blocks away from my house. Really like their Thai dishes, especially Tom Yam (ahh, feel like eating it again tonight). I never been to Thailand before, usually I have Thai cuisine during Thai fair or at Thai restaurant in Malaysia. Spicy, hot and sour foods are constant indulgences to me.


Somtum (papaya salad). I wanted to order the typical mango salad but they didn't have it here. I grabbed some of it before taking the picture for you. Don't worry, this one taste good too. Wakaka...


Pad Thai. Similar to "Char Kuey Tew" but this one comes with sweet topping and crushed roasted peanut. Basically, this is the most popular Thai dish in US. I don't know why, supposes to be Tom Yam, isn't it? Maybe they can't stand for hot foods.


Chu Chee Salmon. This is so special! The fresh salmon topped with chu chee curry (something taste like curry but mild) and coconut milk. An irresistible seduction.

It was my 5th time to dine at this restaurant, but the first time to snap pictures for the foods. I know, I know, I'm so sorry. I will bring along my camera if I go there again. I promise i will share, don't be mad.

Better stop here since Thai foods are very common in Malaysia, some of you even know how to make it. Just in case, if I bore you.


Coming up next:
Who is the winner for January freebie? I just can’t wait to tell you!

Land Cruising

“ Are you sure we wanna do this?”
He speaks to me with his eyes close.
“Of course, weren’t we planned it last night?” I reply.
“You might not like it, it’s outskirt.” His eyes are still closing.
“Com’ on, wake up! I will like it!” I start yelling.

Here we go! Outing for a day. Since I’m going to spend at least 2 years time in Oregon, I have to make myself fall in love with the city (I love New York better, darling). Today, I just want to make myself spontaneous, adventurous and wild about nature. We chose to use the winding road instead of the high way; it’s more thrilling to drive up to the hill. Along the road, we stop at several scenic spots. You will love to join us for the next trip after seeing all the great views.


A cool discovery of the awesome Columbia River Gorge! This river is the boundary for Washington and Oregon. We totally soak in this beautiful view up on the hill!


Another great viewpoint at the Vista House at Crown Point which simultaneously captivate us.


Finally, we present you the second-tallest year-round waterfall in the States, Multnomah Falls . I don't dare to climb up to the top of the fall. So, this is the best photo I have.

(By the way, the Italian uncle who helps us on this photo really get my nerves! How could he use an elevation angle on me? I seem like gaining 5 pounds on this photos! My hubby keeps hinting me to keep in shape. ARGH...I did put on weight but not this much. Just an illusion optic!!!)

Back to our great Mother Nature. I was overwhelming while standing on the top of the mountain. How fortune am I, to be born in this wonderful planet. How grateful am I, to view the most beautiful place on earth. And, how blissful am I, to share this memorable moment with all of you.

Post Toeflism (19-20 Jan 08)

My hubby is more upset than me after hearing my unpleasant experience at the test center. He suggested me to take a break and relax instead of continuing my GMAT study at home. “Girl, let’s change! You need some fresh air,” he said to me in the morning. He’s just like a rainbow to me rainy world.

Why not? I really have to cheer myself. Let’s start it with a special breakfast.


He brought me to an Italian Café, Caffe Umbria in downtown Portland. It is a comfy and classy café. It’s not as busy as Starbucks.


And I really like my coffee latte to be served in real mug instead of paper cup.

Then, shopping is compulsory.

Victoria’s Secret is having semi-annual sales! I’m crazy about fancy lingerie designs. Ermm, yup, what has just across your mind is absolutely correct. I modify my blog’s name from it. What’s a big deal? Everything has been done. Stop bothering, keep shopping!


Oh gosh, this is the battlefield. Not much XS size left! ARGH…

I bought panties as usual, but so sorry! Can’t show them here, my hubby will kill me (cause everything chosen by him). Hahaha…

At evening, we have Vietnamese cuisine (Saigon). This is my idea on the spur of the moment. Western foods are too heavy for me sometimes. Vietnamese spring rolls with fresh vegetables and steam prawns are something light and appetizing for dinner. I order this each time visiting Saigon restaurant.


Yup, mummy! I eat 2 spring rolls only. I have big stomach but I’m not hungry.

Till then, we have to catch a new movie, Cloverfield at 8pm.


Thanks, darling. I'm full of love now >.<

p/s: The movie is awesome!! It's directed as a documentary film by Matt Reeves (director of Lost drama series).

Toeflism (18 Jan 08)

Damn it…
@#$%^&**@#$%(*#*^&

Don’t stop me!! This is my online diary!!
@#$%^&**@#$%(*#*^&

I am cursed!!

What a bad day!! And it wasn’t supposed to be today!
Got up at 6am, leaved house at 7.45am, reached the Toefl test center at 8.30am sharp, started exam at 9am, and then…the stupid computer turned off itself!

What the @#$*

How could this happen to me? Thank god, all my answers were saved for the reading section. Unfortunately, my anxiety causing me went to washroom without finish my listening section. I missed 5 questions!

How could this happen to me? I continued the test and finished another 2 sections with tears. I am so blue. I really want to score this test so much. But now, I’m only hoping I can pass it. God, do you hear my praying?

Damn it…

Pre Toeflism (1-17 Jan 08)

In order to further my study in States, I have to suffer with 2 exams, which are Toefl and GMAT. You don’t need to know more about these tests because I strongly believe anyone of you can pass it with flying color results. I can too, but you know my study attitude screw me up. Lazy bugs crawl on me all the time (except shopping, I can shop for whole day).

But, I really put in efforts this time, just for the test fee’s sake. This bloody Toefl costs me USD 250++ for the test fee(USD 150) and all the study materials.

ARGHHHH…
I don’t want to pay extra USD 150 to retake it!


Pushing upon my limit for the last preparation week.


Test practicing 3 days before Toefl (starbucks couldn’t breeze my day either).


Kind of miss my UPM lecturers.
Thanks to their laziness, I graduated without hassles and pressures.
Thanks to their ignorance, I graduated with less than 80% attendance.

Why do I have to make my life harder to pursue study in States? The education system here does not embrace my “cut & paste” assignment skill.

Stupid me…

Eyes on me

Everybody knows that eyes are the windows to our souls. Other can see through our secrets through your eyes. Now, close your eyes and think about yourself. Open it when I count to ten.

1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10….

Hehe…nothing mysterious, just wants to make this post longer. Because my best friend told me I do not write enough recently. In fact, editing photos consumed more time than writing.

Cut the crap. All girls know how to make their eyes appear bigger than they are. Yup, it is mascara. Good mascara is a very valuable investment for all girls. If you don’t have one yet, better get it as soon as possible. I guarantee you; your longer and darker eyelashes will directly make your eyes more attractive! Once you apply, you will get addicted. For those who already use it as a routine, you can have a closer look on what I’ve got!!



1) Fasio waterproof mascara base
Apply this before the mascara will double your eyelashes volume and length. It contains pure transparent fibers, so it is invisible after you layer on with mascara.

(RM23+, Watson, M’sia)

2) Maybeline unstoppable mascara
This is an ideal practice product if you are a beginner. The cost is cheaper and the effect is obvious. But it will smudge, therefore not suitable for long hour’s purpose.

(RM25+, Watson, M’sia)

3) Maybeline volum express
Its curved brush makes it easier to apply if you are a sophisticated mascara user. Although it’s still not smudge-proof, it functions better than the previous one.
(RM33+, Watson, M’sia)

4) MAX vivid impact
This is the new product in US. I think it might sell in M’sia soon. It features with two distinct colors. I bought a black with a silver highlight color. However, the highlight is not vivid at all. I’m going to return this! You are welcome to own it if you want to try something new, but don’t place high expectation on it!(USD 12+, Fredmeyer, US)

5) Diorshow waterproof
Thanks to my friend in HK (san san, I miss you), she suggested me to get this. This mascara is absolutely awesome. Everything is good (smudge-free and great effect for long wearing purpose) except the brush size. It just slightly too large for me, perhaps they made it according to westerner standard.

(USD 23, Nordstrom, US)

Ohh… Don’t forget to use the eyelashes curler before applying mascara.

Using make up will bring you no good in long run. You have to take good care of your skin too, especially for eyes area. I must confess, I got dark circles and fine lines too. My dark circles don’t disappear over so many years (sometimes I think I was born like that). But, I never give up.



1) Skin Food carrot collagen eye mask
I would say the most economy and best eye mask! I brought over 10 pieces and now left 3 only. Your eyes area will absorb the essence and it looks supple after 15-20 minutes. Try it!

(RM 8.90, Skin Food, M’sia)

2) SKII signing eye cream
It helps to reduce fine lines and wrinkles by deep moisturizing. After using it for 2 months, I notice it does lighten my fine lines around eyes area. But, I was hoping it would reduce my dark circles too.(RM 295, Pakson, M’sia)

3) Bionsen eye mask
Ermm, I forgot the description of this stuff. The beauty salon staff recommended me this. It doesn’t really work on me. Maybe I’m lazy to use it. Normally, I just left it in the refrigerator and use it when my dark circles or eye bags get worse.(RM 14+, Sasa, M’sia)

Intensive skincare and delicate make up will make your eyes sexier, brighter, and irresistible. Don’t hesitate to look fabulous! You deserve it better than me.



Well, another tips for keeping a great outlook is always retouch your photo before uploading it!

wakaka...

Starbuckian

Back to my high school time, I was wondering why people paying RM10++ for just a cup of coffee? Aren't we have a lot more choices than this in Malaysia? Those people are paying for the coffee or paying for the atmosphere in Starbucks? Or just to portrait a different status of lifestyle?

After sometimes, I guess I found the answer.

Starbucks coffee taste exactly the same no matter where you enjoy it. I proved this by trying it every city that I'd visited. From Kuala Lumpur to Singapore, Miami to New York City, Portland to Seattle. And of course, the Starbucks that I visit most often base in my lovely hometown, Seremban.













Starbucks offers me a taste of home whenever I need it.

Are you a Starbuckian too?

Wii Heehee

My hubby promised to buy me a Wii video game so I can kill my time at home. I was thinking to get it after my tests. But when I browse around these are what I've found.








I am shocked but laughed out loud!!
I hope this is just an exaggeration.
However, my advice is,
think twice before getting it,
play wise after owning it.

Sleepless Seattle

I traveled to Seattle with my hubby and friends. It’s just 3 hours drive from Portland to Seattle. Fours of us start our journey on new year eve and decided to spend a night there. What’s so special about Seattle? Is this the question just across your head? Then, let me intro to you a bit.

Seattle is the largest city in Northwest America. If you like Starbucks, you have to recognize this city! Because Starbucks is from Seattle! You can find the original Starbucks store there. And, the oldest market place in America too (fishes are cheap there, I guess).

Getting excited now? I was too, but only before I reached Seattle.

Another peerless day…took this along the road.

Firstly, we planned to shop around, explore Seattle down town, and dine in at great restaurant. Then, we will countdown at Space Needle, the most popular architecture at Seattle. However, our plans turned to bubbles due to some unexpected incidents (sigh deeply). So, I hope you don’t blame me for the cut and paste pictures below:


I didn't have chance to catch a glimpse of this magnificent building (start sobbing unstoppable).




Fireworks countdown at Space Needle!
I missed the most special moment as well (start knocking my head to the wall).
When was I at that moment? I was eating Thai foods in the hotel!! What to do, I didn't have the choice. Save the best for new year day then.

The first day of 2008 did bring me some luck. It was a public holiday and most of the shops tended to close. But i saw this!!!


Yeah~~ the original Starbucks store located at Pike Street!! It was opened!!


Lining up for my latte


Nicely done~~ Let's go for a walk!


Seattle's sky. I'm not sure what do you think, but for me one of my dreams came true. Sipping Starbucks at Seattle, a taste of originality.



This is how the oldest market in States looks like. However, I was not able to discover any further. All stalls were closed.


The Water Front view. Can you see the Cascade Mountain? It was so amazing...

Ohh! Before I forgot, I got something extraordinary for you!!

Guess what is this?

Our friends brought us to this place! The wall was painted (sticked i suppose) by bubble gums. You can add your piece on it if you like. A little disgusting for me but undeniable it was so special, wasn't it?


He said it was very artistic! hmm...I think I could only say SPECIAL...

To be sincere, you are about to reach the ending of this post. Still want to know more about Seattle? I wanted too but I think not this time (don't cry, i will go there again surely). We went there with wrong timing. It really pissed me off though, I didn't have opportunity to shop at all. Just bought 10 postcards and that's it. So lame...The streets were quiet and not crowded as it supposed. Ermm, actually it was, only crowded with statues.

I saw this at first,


Then followed by this,


And these...(sweat!!)

These are only 5% of all! You can simply find one at down town Seattle. Each of them is unique and has its own characteristic, title.


**The End**


huh??!! That's all??
No shopping bag to check out?

Don't challenge my patient...ARGH!!
no shopping! No Shopping!! NO SHOPPING!!!
This was my Seattle trip about (hung myself already)!!

Giveaway

Sorry for posting this late! I know you can’t wait for this, me either. I can hardly kick myself out of the study table to write this for you. Nearly die due to the heavy study materials recently. Neglect my tension because it is time for celebration! Hooray…

Congratulations to Amy, you just won the charm bracelet, the freebie of December. And, it is already on its way to you (I posted it out 2 days ago)! Thank you for supporting Beverly’s Secret!

Ohh, dear, don’t be upset if you didn’t win that. There are more to come. Last month freebie was more girlie and ladylike, I bet that’s the reason I received less comment from guys (perhaps, they just don’t like my girlie blog at all). Anyway, I choose to think of the positive side. Therefore, may I have your attention gentlemen!!


What is whoopee cushion?
It’s a joke tool to create flatulence sound. You first inflate it with air and then place it on your sofa or chair (make it not so obvious of course). After that, invite a victim to sit on it. Then, the whoopee cushion will produce flatulence sound by forcing the air out.

Hahahahaha…
Hahahahhahahahahaha….

It wasn’t my idea to give this hilarious stuff away, it was my hubby. I kept asking him what gift that is more appeal to guys and yet affordable for me. Then he handed me THIS!

Hahahahaha…
Hahahahhahahahahaha….

Girls, don’t boycott me by giving this away! It’s an utterly useful tool for April Fool. Good luck, buddies!

Hot Picks

Sorry for the lack of blogging recently!! Frankly speaking, I’m getting busier now. As you know, I just get back from Seattle (although it was just 3 hours drive from Portland) after new year. Then, I got to summarize the whole trip for you and in the mean time stick on my study table for Toefl test on 18.

ARGH…damn stress!!

So, watching great movie is another way to relief my tension. These are 2 high-rated movies in States now!! I guesstimate it wont show in Malaysia. Wanna know why? Scroll down for these trailers! (click on the movie title for complete movies info)

No Country For Old Man



I might said it’s a terror, violent, extreme, and yet the best film of the year. Director and actors are utterly brilliant; I’ve voted it 5 stars! You will lose your breath and heartbeats in theater.

Sweeney Todd



If you like Jack Sparrow, you’ll love this for sure!! Jonny Depp casts on this!
As for sure, a great actor like him always plays his character well and with a sense of humor although it’s a horror movie. The ending was really overwhelmed and unexpected! What a sad love story indeed. My heart was broken at the ending.

Gonna stick my butt to study again!!
Enjoy buddies…I shall return!!