農家女 Nong Jia Nu

“新”旅程（一） Scrap book of year 2011-Journey in Singapore

2012-02-06T18:27:00.762+08:00

2011年(在新加坡）的100个记忆

100 photo memories of 2011

十二月.一一年

Dec 11

The 1 and only Sg. Road

童话的结构
Kandahar Street

日式咖啡厅
Ikoku cafe

圣诞礼物收到了！
Tokyo Bike

十一月.一一年

Nov 11

虎妹
Haw Par Villa

On my way to Yen's house

十月.一一年

Oct 11

Lorong Chuan

Blooms @ Serangoon Gardens

Baby shower cup cakes from Karyn

好好吃～
taste so good!

九月.一一年

Sep 11

Jungle house

Happy Sunny face

Ms. Pepper

锁定目标，准备攻击！
Attack mode

Paris Ris Park

Pasir Ris Park

很忙的
Juwind @ Orange Thimble

so adorable, isn't he?

Meeting Little Elise @ Karyn's house

Swan lady

Cute illustration on Heath Bistro Cafe's menu

Catching up with Oke and Winnie

八月.一一年

August 11

Afternoon tea @ TWG Takashimaya

TWG Takashimaya

觉／迷？
Gift or curse?

Brunch @ Octa Hotel

From Arab Street to Kandahar Street

Pet Safari

Katong Flower Shop

假的仙人掌（我还把它们当真了）

Pink Lotus @ Katong Flower Shop

接下来，它们的命运将会怎样呢？
Albert Street

纯真
I have a dream

Spring festival @ Singapore Japanese School

姐妹情深

Say "V"!

童真
Oyishii~

七月.一一年

July 11

Kewpie 三人组

金沙
Marina Bay Sands

六月.一一年

June 11

残缺美
Worm buffet

五月.一一年

May 11

落花
Falling flowers

肥猫
Fat cat

Balestier Road

"Legoland" @ Balestier Road

The Beauty Queen

Katong Flower Shop

神奇树
Magical fruit tree

四月.一一年

Apr 11

Albert Court

Lunch @ Blu Kouzina

Tiong Bahru Estate

“秘密”走道

Miniature jam from Juwind, so cute~

Picnic @ Pulau Ubin

Mustard house @ Kandahar Street

Joe & Dough

Bandage chair

三月.一一年

Mar 11

Hairloom & Caramel

P.S Cafe

Meeting Danny for Lunch

极品
crème de la crème

Nassim Road

最爱
Tsumori Chisato @ Forum

二月.一一年

Feb 11

第一
Portsdown Road

Tea Cosy

兔年

白鸟壶

一月.一一年

Jan 11

♥ Happy Birthday to my husband! ♥

花系列
Fabric sourcing

Research

自行车之旅： Lorong Halus 赏日出 Sunrise at Lorong Halus Wetland

2012-02-02T21:34:00.007+08:00

日期：一月二号二零一二年

时间：六点早上

Date: 2nd January 2012

Time: 6am

Location: Lorong Halus Wetlands Park & Visitor Centre

梦幻派对 Pink Party on Boxing Day

2012-02-01T22:59:00.006+08:00

日期：十二月二十六号二零一一年

时间：二点下午

地点：我家

Date: 26th December 2011

Time: 2pm

Location: Home Sweet Home

photo by Juwind

Pretty cakes from K-ki

Girls talk
Tommy, Yen , Juwind...

and Karyn

photo by Juwind

Gift exchange time!

The gift I received from Tommy- HOSHINO's ALASKA

...and random gifts from the girls

以物易物（一）之幕后花絮 Behind the scene of my very first barter trade

2012-01-10T22:06:00.001+08:00

卖力的摄影师先生和两位得力助手

每一朵送给花盘主人的“花针”，都是用五颜六色的圆形贴纸组合成的
Adhesive round stickers are the main components to create flower pins for each enamel tray

还记得这一款怀旧的粉红色的包装纸吗？就是小时候常在药材店和喜饼店用来包装的材料。（问过马六甲的老人家，他们都称之为“水红纸”，有没有读者知道有关“水红纸”的其他名称呢？有的话，欢迎你在留言里分享！～）
Each enamel tray ais wrapped in nostalgic pink paper for traditional Chinese medicine shops and pastry shops

被美化的“葱袋子”
Recycled onion sack

不知道花盘的主人有没有留意感谢卡里面的鸭子，每一个花样都是根据选择的花盘而设的？
希望你们会喜欢！

一切从心开始 Unconditional Love

2012-01-09T00:21:00.009+08:00

要成就每一件事，少不了因缘巧合。在对的时间点和情况允许，难得有幸能帮心连心之家筹得一些食物与用品。开始这一篇文章前，我不晓得自己有没有那样的智慧去描写这一段故事。

两个星期前，把交换到的食品送到“心连心之家”后与Sharana 先生聊了一个下午。

话说，今年62岁的Sharana 先生在40年前偶遇了许哲女士，被她的大爱精神给感动。从此，下定决心跟着许哲居士到新加坡各地照顾贫苦人士,被遗忘的老人以及社会需要帮助的边缘人。每个月，Sharana先生用载着许哲居士联手负责把有心人捐赠的食物与用品定时派到。谁家的柴米油盐酱醋茶快要用完的时候Sharana 在分派食品时都会忙着做笔记。由于，每一家都有不同的需要，不管任何需求，他都会把街坊的要求给一一的记录下来。

当了40年“送货邮差”的Sharana先生，每一次与街坊接触的时刻都是珍贵的。他早已把“它”当成终生职业。每当街坊从他手中接过食品再弯下身，万分感激的说声“谢谢你”；当他知道今天又有少一个人挨饿的时候，那一种内心发出的喜悦非笔墨能形容，也是他最大的推动力。（那种喜悦常常出现在Sharana先生的谈话中）。我的先生常常告诉我，善于沟通的人终是能让对方滔滔不绝。对话中，也几乎只有我的声音⋯⋯

Sharana先生从来不后悔加入心连心之家，除了有“送货邮差”的身份Sharana先生也是许哲居士眼中孝顺的“干儿子”。Sharana先生的对话总是离不开许哲居士。跟着许哲女士加入心连心之家以后，虽然过着身无分文的日子但从未饿过肚子。他说某天，家里的菜吃完了许女士正想着：“该吃些什么好？”的同时，有客人在外头敲门，手里捧着新鲜的蔬菜：“我看到今天的蔬菜特别漂亮，所以顺道买一份来送给您。”许哲居士惊讶地看着他问：“你怎么知道我在想什么？”说完便哈哈大笑。奇迹常常发生在她的身上，只要是许哲居士心想要得到的东西总是能得到。(所谓心想事成就是以一颗纯净纯善的心来发愿，想得到的事就会实现。）她的慈悲感动了天地，善良的一颗心总是替别人着想。口袋空空的她，过的比任何人还快乐，而且也不需要挨饿。这样的人生，不就是最美好的吗？。她，是人类的榜样。(试问我现在追求的又是什么？想得到的都得到了吗？得到了之后，就此而满足吗？还是又继续盲目的追不停地追求没有尽头结果）

这里有更多有关许哲居士的感动人生。

听了一个下午的故事，让我联想到了海参故事：

我曾经在书里看过一个故事：有一个年轻人他走在一望无际的大海边，刚好正值退潮，很多海参被海浪打上岸来，结果因为退了潮，这些海参就停留在沙滩上回不去，但是隔天它还不回海里就会干枯死掉。这个年轻人就捡起一只海参，往海里扔，再捡起一只再扔，就这样持续做了很长一段时间。刚好旁边有个路人经过，看到这一目，喜欢看热闹，也跟了很久。最后，忍不住对捡海参的人说：“仁兄啊，一望无际的海参，你再怎么捡也捡不完，你就别捡了吧。”捡海参的年轻人看着他微微一笑，继续蹲下去捡起海参来往海里扔，年轻人说：“我又救了一只海参的生命！”

虽然，茫茫人海中需要帮助的人多不胜数；我们不能因为有需要帮助的人太多而放弃不帮了。只要任何一个跟我们有缘的人，我们都要尽心尽力帮他一把，让他们的人生不要枯竭了。观点改变了，就能改写很多人的人生故事。用心开始，新的一年！新年快乐！！

To begin a short story about Mr. Sharana is such an honor for me. This has drained a more-than-expected energy and time from me as I worry that I am unable to justify his side of the story.

2 weeks ago, I had the opportunity to hold a long conversation with Mr. Sharana after delivering the barter groceries to Heart to Heart Service.

40 years ago, Sister Teresa Hsu was one of Mr. Sharana’s (now aged 62) students in his yoga class. He held high respect for Sister Teresa Hsu after discovering her ways in contributing to society. Observing Sister Teresa’s quiet sacrifice in volunteer work, he imagined himself doing the same, offering his love and care to society. Till today, Mr. Sharana has never regretted his decision 40 years ago, to be part of Heart to Heart Service.

During his routine delivery of groceries to needy families, both he and Sister Teresa will share their groceries with anyone in need. He mentions: “It is a great feeling to receive delightful smiles from receivers.”

Through my conversation with Mr. Sharana, I found out that he never regretted joining the Service and had never gone hungry throughout his years of service. And he remained happy even though he was never paid for his services.

It still astonishes me when he mentioned that both he and Sister Teresa have strong “telepathy” as they always received items from donors the items they wished for. “This still amazes me till today! I believe miracles happen every day and especially for Sister Teresa.” he said.

I feel that clean, pure and innocent minds attracts positives in life. Sister Teresa is a role model for many. She was never in blind pursue of the luxuries of life, yet she lived a fruitful life, giving herself to others and in return, received true happiness.

Through Mr. Sharana, I found out that the meaning of “charity” and “welfare” holds a very different meaning for Sister Teresa. She considers “charity” as giving something that you have to someone who doesn’t have it; whereas, “welfare” is to share all that you have to someone who needs it more than you do”.

From my point of view, the difference (between “charity” and “welfare”) is, “charity” is setting boundaries among each other and “welfare” is being selfless and treating strangers like your brothers and sisters.

Let us all take a moment to observe and care for all those in need around us and take the first step to care more for our family and friends and eventually expand our love and concern to strangers in need.

Let LOVE start from home.

Happy 2012 everyone!

Delivery lady of the day 2

2011-12-24T23:01:00.003+08:00

Date: 22th December 2011

Time: 1pm

Mission: Delivery lady of the day

I had a super busy week, and am sure readers who wanted to know what happened after the trading was completed. Yes, I feel responsible to share what happened next.

▲ Mr. Lee's Thank you card

▲ 12:00pm

Ready to collect the last signature from Mr. Lee before deliver the groceries to Heart to Heart Service

▲ 12:45pm

Arrived at Serangoon MRT station

▲ 1:00pm

Although I got Mr. Lee to sign on the card, he kept telling me not to thank him but the traders.

▲ On my way to Heart to Heart Service

Smiley goodies bags for the children under Heart to Heart Service welfare, I hope these little presents will provide a little Happy Christmas to them!

▲ 2:00pm

Arrived on time at Heart to Heart Service, I saw Mr. Sharana (Sister Teresa's 40 years co-worker, he's now the person who in charge for Heart to Heart Service) welcoming me to the unit.

▲ Loading groceries was a very special moment for me. The receivers of these "presents" from the traders will bring a smile to their faces.

Message from Mr. Sharana to the contributors,

"Many thanks for your kind and generous donation of the groceries which we just received today for our elderly friends & needy families! They sent their warmest greetings to all!

As Sister Teresa always said: "It is not the size of the gift but rather the size of your heart that matters". How joyful it is to know that someone do not have to suffer from hunger when you are able to share your gifts with them. This is truly Sister's life and practice of love and share."

▲ Unfortunately, Mr. Sharana fell sick 2 days ago. Maybe due to bad weather and being alone without his noble mentor (Sister Teresa).

My long conversation with Mr. Sharana ( see next post) covered topics of life perception and understanding the late Sister Teresa's work.

▲ All groceries have been sent today to the elderly and needy families

▲ 4:26pm

End of mission

Thanks Giving

2011-12-24T22:55:00.004+08:00

To all readers:

Thank you for your support in helping to spread the word!~

With special thanks to these ladies, the Barter trade was a success!

Million thanks to

• Yen (Vanilla Minuet, Everyday Life Store)

• Juwind (a little step two)

• Karyn (TSILI GIRLY STYLE MEMO)

• Tommy (this is naive)

If you have been reading my blog you would know that I started a Barter Trade event last Tuesday. This was my very first experience with barter and charity. I am still in my learning phase, there are still many things which I would need to learn and I thank you for your support in making this Barter trade a success.

In true honesty, I was only targeting to consolidate a percentage of groceries which was requested by Heart to Heart Service. I was aiming for a 50% barter success and was delighted with a 70% (which was already considered a bonus). Some traders even contributed additional groceries from what was requested (what else could I ask for?). The remaining 30% was covered by my hubby (wow~ I am the luckiest girl in the world).

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!

2011-12-24T21:11:00.001+08:00

Message to all readers,

Delivery lady of the day

2011-12-22T22:25:00.002+08:00

Special THANKS to all contributors. Signature from the left, SARAH, KARYN, TING JEN, SEAN, YUN XI, FION, JANET and MR.LEE

I managed to collect the final signature from Mr. Lee before delivering the groceries to Heart to Heart Service. This greeting card is now with Mr. Sharana (Sister Teresa's long time partner and assistant at Heart to Heart Service). It was my honor to have chatted with him this afternoon.
It has been a super busy yet fulfilling week for me. Can't wait to share with you more articles and pictures in relation to this Barter trade event in the next couple of days. Stay tune!

Barter Trade 2 用爱心交换回忆（下）(CLOSED)

2011-12-13T20:01:00.024+08:00

KINDLY READ the Conditions for Barter Trade

---The end---

Happy bidding!

Barter Trade 1 用爱心交换回忆（上）

2011-12-13T20:00:00.006+08:00

参观过李老板的宝库让我们受益不浅。热爱收集旧东西的我，来到老店总是改不了要人工扫描店里的每个角落。忽然间，在众多的杂物之间隐隐约约地被我看到似曾相识的花样。它被“静静”压在其他的杂物动弹不得。李老板却轻而易举的把它给摘了下来捧到我的面前问。

李老板：妳喜欢吗？
我：（顿时又回到初次走进这家店的小孩猛点头）
李老板：我还有很多。（说完就直接走到后面的仓库，不到十秒钟只见他捧着一堆的盘子放我的面前）
我：（我快疯了～）这些要买多少钱？
李老板：全部送给妳。
我：...（心中暗喜，但又觉得不好意思再问）真的吗？（心虚）

李老板：（潇洒的点点头）是我太太留下来的，孩子们不懂得欣赏。我本来早就想把他们丢掉，妳要喜欢全部拿去，我一毛钱都不收。（老板边走边说。然后，就像电影里的画面回过头微笑的着说）做生意要老实。

其实，老板大可以从我这边赚个几十块；但他还是坚持不收。或许，有人会认为老板是傻子，有钱也不想赚。但我十分钦佩，他用道德经营生意的态度，三十年了，还是风雨不改。以诚待人，将心比心。
我：那这一些盘子，有多久了？
李老板：（手指着身上沾满了岁月的痕迹的盘子）它们，比妳还大。（手指比一比）至少有40－50年。

之后，老板又进去仓库找了袋子和绳子；把所有的盘子按顺序排列再包扎起来。

This is part of the missing story from the previous post and I deliberately saved it for today so that I can elaborate more on the special “gift”.

As a junk collector who is mad over flower patterns, I discovered these partially hidden floral-printed trays while I was browsing for treasures. These trays, found in Mr. Lee’s shop, were like candies to a child.

Mr. Lee noticed the excitement in my eyes and helped to fish out the trays amongst his towering pile of vintage goods.

He held the old dusty trays in hands and asked:"Do you collect old trays?"

I nodded in anticipation, the same excited feeling I had when I first entered Mr. Lee’s shop.

"Just a second!"

The wise Mr. Lee seems to have read my thoughts as he disappeared into the deepest darkest corner of his shop and return moments later with… (you guessed it)… many more flower-printed trays!

I was overwhelmed by the vast numbers of flower-printed trays that he had in his hands and I couldn’t take my eyes off them.

As if by some unknown supernatural force, my lips uttered:"How much are these going for?"

"All yours."

My eyes bulged and remained fixated as he said that. This was followed was by a complete shutdown of my vocal cord which filled the shop with thorough silence.

I couldn’t believe that this is real..

"Are you serious?" after I recomposed myself and asked with doubtfulness.

He firmly nodded his head, being very sure of his answer.

He subsequently explained that he has previously intended to give it away to recycle, but he was too busy with his work then. His wife (who passed away a long time ago) kept them for 40-50 years and wanted their kids to inherit them but none were interested in them.

As Mr. Lee gathered all the enamel trays, he mentioned:"If you really like them, I am not going to collect any single cent from you." He then gave a wide smile and said:"All honest business, no questions asked."

I was touched by the last sentence. He could have easily charged me a high price but he didn’t.

That was the most surprising thing I’ve ever heard from a businessman. Some of you might think he must have been out of his mind and I thought the same too but I am truly appreciative to Mr. Lee for his kind gesture.

Using some recycled gunnysacks and ropes, he carefully arranged the trays and created a very authentic package for me to carry the trays.

▲ 面对40年之久盘子，虽然有点缺陷，但却非常的稀有的。不得不承认，当我第一次看到花盘的时候，一心只想占有它们。和李老板的那一段话话还一直在我脑海里挥之不去，一个人独吞受有的盘子又怎么说得过去呢？

I have to admit it is a tough decision to let go the trays. Although there are wear and tear on each of the trays but I really like the unique flower patterns in all sorts of color combination.

▲ 从李老板身上学到懂得知足常乐，才是最富有的人。而我家什么都不缺，就因为占有欲太强了东西才会越买越多。因此，我把全部的花盘用传统以物易物的方式来把它们换出去。将所有换到的东西捐给心连心慈善机构。现在，这些盘子在寻找新的主人！

Through my encounter with Mr. Lee I’ve learned that “Riches are not from abundance or worldly goods, but from a contented mind.” I am always greedy, and always end up with limited, cramped space at home. Furthermore, I already have a few similar trays previously, which means these trays are now looking for new owners!^_^

▲ 为此，我还找来很有想法的摄影师Gilbert Teo与他的未婚妻Sherlyn跟我合作把花系列盘子拍好。虽然，在拍摄过程当中天空不做美；但是摄影师还是想尽办法把它作得最好。身为旁观者的我，看到他们不计一切的为慈善尽一份力深深感动。谢谢你们！

如果，你们喜欢这些照片和花盘，在下一个post会有更多的惊喜！（但是⋯⋯因为忙着筹备其他事情所以只有英文版本，真对不起！）

With tremendous help from aspiring photographer, Gilbert Teo, who has an interesting perspective of taking unique photos and his fiancée, Sherlyn, we developed a series of beautiful photos shot on raining day! Big thanks to the both of them who were more than happy to spend their precious hours in the name of charity.

If you like the photos and trays, there will be more photos coming on in the next post.

我会用最传统的“以物易物”方式来交换花盘；每一个花盘可以用指定的食物和用品来交换。然后，再将所有换得的食物和用品在圣诞节之前捐赠给心连心慈善机构。让所有需要帮助的人在圣诞耶前收到你们的神秘礼物。要是喜欢花盘的朋友，请留意今天下一个post的交换条件哦～所以圣诞老人的角色就拜托你们了，我只能当你们的驯鹿～^_^

I will be using the traditional barter trade to exchange the trays for selected groceries. All these groceries will be donated to the Heart to Heart Service non-profit unit. If you are interested to own any of the flower trays, instructions and condition for the barter trade will be found in the next post.

All groceries will be delivered to the charity unit, Heart to Heart Service, before Christmas Day as Christmas gifts to all the senior folks under its care.

▲ Image sourced from Heart to Heart Service

Heart to Heart Service
130 Hougang Avenue 1
Singapore 538900
Tel: +65-6289 0924
enquiry@hearttoheartservice.org

http://hearttoheartservice.org

某天，我和外婆再探讨有关慈善的可信度。我不停的埋怨在新加坡找不到真正为慈善复出的一份子。

正当我锁紧眉头的时候，外婆问我：“那，你有听说过许哲女士吗？”一语惊醒梦中人。就好像看到一曙光，我点点头，心里已经找到了方向。

接着外婆很真诚的对我说：“你可以相信她。”

就这样，我开始搜寻有关许哲女士的资料进一步的了解她。看完了她的人生旅程和对慈善出发点，我感动地落下眼泪。她眼中没有自己，舍弃了高薪工作一辈子无时无刻的想着要怎么帮助别人；别人的快乐，也就是她最大的礼物。每天做瑜伽来锻炼身体为的是要照顾更多有需要帮助的人，也不想老年的时候要别人照顾。身上穿的衣服都是在垃圾中检回来的，她还常笑著说自己就是“乞丐头”。她的好可不是三言两语能说得完。
我很遗憾身在新加坡却没有更早认识她⋯⋯在准备今晚的文章我才得知上个礼拜（12月7日2011年）113岁许哲女士带着笑容悄悄的离开人世，也在当天火化。就算走了，也不想让任何人知道；更不想让人为她的离去而感到伤心。

The founder of Heart to heart service- Sister Teresa was the only person I fully trust when it comes to charity. While I was searching info for Heart to Heart Service, I saw shocking news of Sister Teresa (aged 113). She passed away peacefully last Wednesday. I didn’t have the opportunity to meet such a wonderful woman but I hope I can help to contribute a little with the flower trays project. So, please give your helping hand~!

▲ 许哲女士是我对“以物易物”的原动力，是她用爱心感染了我。虽然她已经离开人世但她对慈善的心愿会一直的流传下去。

Video sourced from Youtube

Kiddy Rides 儿童音乐电动器

2011-12-12T20:00:00.003+08:00

日期：十月九号二零一一年

时间： 2点下午

Date: 9th October 2011

Time: 2pm

五福贸易公司

Woo Hock Trading Co.

Location:17, Lichfield Road, Singapore 1955

Contact Number:+65 62865951

Email: woohock17@singnet.com.sg

星期天的下午，在Juwind和Yen的友情加入，继续我的挖宝之旅。今天寻宝的目标是小的时候常常吵着要坐的儿童音乐电动器，我称它为“大玩具”。

小的时候，比较贪新厌旧。等到岁月不留人的时候，才开始怀恋曾经陪伴童年的点点滴滴；更想知道它们背后的故事。我想，这群能为小孩带来欢乐的大人们，心里都住着一个爱幻想童话的小孩。

I wonder how many of you recalled those colorful Kiddy Rides during your childhood? I happen to be one of those kids who would jump up and down, and create a racket if my parents refused to allow me to take a ride in them *embarrassed*. I am so regretful that I never collected and bought any for memory sake. With a stroke of luck, I stumbled upon this Kiddy Rides shop in Serangoon Gardens and I told myself no matter how busy I was, I would find time to make a trip...

▲ “有人在吗？”
"Anybody home?"

• 逆光下，看见老板身影慢慢走过来。

刚开始的时候，觉得老板怎么都不开口说话？
一直到我接过了名片；他用大拇指按着颈项穿了一个大洞的喉咙自我介绍：“我姓李。”声调还带有“机器人”的口音。那一刻，才发觉老板的声带已经被切除了。（我...太大意了）

面对有缺陷的人，我难免会为他们感到很抱歉，李老板却是例外。他很有耐心的陪在我们的身边回答为我们解说制造儿童音乐电动器的过程；有的时候还会像逗趣小孩一般跟我们开开玩笑；他用乐观的精神告诉我们没有了声带也可以活得很快乐...就这样，我们才开始失去理智问了一堆无厘头的问题。

As the owner came out to welcome us to his shop, he remained mysteriously quiet. The silence was only broken the moment he handed me his name card. As he did, Mr. Lee stammered: "I am Mr. Lee" (with a kind of "robotic" tone in his voice). I then realized that there was a big cut in his neck and I could clearly see a pipe sticking into it.

Throughout the conversation, Mr. Lee often joked about himself (he's a happy-go-lucky man!). And although he had lost his vocal cord, he is contented that he survived after his battle with throat cancer.

▲ 过了那道任意门，目睹这一切。三个80年代的女人，在心中沉睡已久的小女孩被唤醒了（还得了？）开始失控的尖叫～
How could we resist seeing all these 80's childhood memories all gathered in one location? (scream~)

▲ ~It's a small world after all ~ It's the small world after all~...细小的声音正是从这一边传过来的，没有完美的音质却是完整地保留当年的回忆。

The vintage radio in the background was playing "It's a small world after all ~ it's a small world after all~" ...surrounding Mr. Lee' work table.

（影片取自Youtube)
(Video sourced from Youtube)

▲ 60年代的Disneyland,想带你体验乘坐时光机回到小时候。（影片有点长，但值得一看。）
Some may find this video clip a little too lengthy to view, but in my opinion, it's worth your time.

▲ 可爱的小鸭子是老板的的得意之作；也是店里的招牌鸭
“你也太可爱了吧！好想把你带回家～”
This adorable baby duck is the trademark of Woo Hock shop.

• 店里没有豪华的装潢，生活也非常朴实。老板把重心都放在制作儿童音乐电动器的工作上。我们都能感受老板开门做生意除了赚钱，还以交朋友的心态来对待客人。

The Decor of the shop remained the same throughout Mr. Lee's 40 years of business (that is also one of the reasons why I liked the shop so much!). Although Mr. Lee was a successful businessman, he chose to live humbly because he was only dedicated to spend all of his time to create these classic Kiddy Rides.

▲ 每一件“大玩具”，价格都合情合理。（比较不合理的是，我们住的鸽子洞已经快要爆炸了！）

These "toys" are reasonable priced but unfortunately my "pigeon hole" HDB apartment is so constrained in space that its ready to explode!

▲ 这不是战力品，它是李老板热心报销的旧东西。喜欢旧东西的朋友要记得留意明天的小小惊喜^_^。
I didn't spend any cent on this "gift". It was Mr. Lee's treasure, given to me. I have lined up a little surprise for some lucky readers to own this "gift", do remember to check the next update tomorrow to find out ;)

就这样，一面之缘的李老板跟我们分享了他一身的故事，

我虽然什么都没买，但是心里总想为他做些什么。

难忘的下午，一个大小孩和三个女人可以无话不谈的坐了一个下午。

My first meeting with Mr. Lee was filled with his life stories. I ended up buying nothing from his shop, but am glad that I took a day off my computer and made this memorable trip. I am certainly looking forward to spend another similar afternoon with him. Thank you, Mr. Lee!

待续⋯⋯

to be continued...

Taoyuan Airport (Part2 End)-Mini Kitty Land 台湾行：桃园机场大发现之吉蒂猫

2011-12-10T20:00:00.002+08:00

哇！吉蒂猫这又是桃园机场里的另一个惊喜～
喜欢吉蒂猫的朋友们，这是为你门而拍的 ^_^

There must be a lot of Hello Kitty fans in Taiwan in order for Taoyuan Airport personnel to create facilities, boarding gates and even paint their planes with Hello Kitty themes. If you are a Kitty fan, this post is specially for you~

台湾行就在这里结束了，长达三个星期有关台湾的文章，恐怕你们也看得有点累了吧？明天是时候来点有关新加坡的寻宝文章了，内容跟80年代的童玩有关（其他的⋯⋯就不方便多说了）记得要锁定下个礼拜一哦！～周末快乐！

Hurray~ This will be my last post regarding my Taiwan trip. It took me about 3 weeks to post this one exciting trip. Next, there will be a post about treasure hunting in Singapore. It will definitely bring back memories and the 80's kid in you. (ok, that's all I would say) Stay tuned for this coming Monday ^_^ Happy Kitty Day & Happy Weekend~

Taroko National Park @ Hualien (Part 2 End)台湾行：花莲之太鲁阁惊险记（下集）

2011-12-09T20:00:00.008+08:00

▲ 终于，登上了兰亭。面对，几乎无法让我睁开眼睛的强风；一手紧抓着柱子；硬着头皮把眼睛睁开看看悬崖究竟有多深。
I am very afraid of heights, but my ego refuses to let me give up. I finally made it to "Lan Ting" booth but I could hardly open my eyes with the wind howling and blowing. I persisted, challenging myself against the steepness of the gorge.

▲ 吃过午餐下山咯～

▲ 花莲火车站的走道
Hualien Train Station

•在太鲁阁走马看花的4小时很快就过去。

由于摄影水准有待进步，比较遗憾的是没办法将太鲁阁的“最美”呈现在照片。（我会努力的！）有机会到花莲旅游的朋友一定要亲自去体验太鲁阁国家公园。踏上这片土地后，

我很庆幸的告诉自己，此生没有白来。

I apologize for my bad shooting skills, and am ashamed that my photos do not do justice to the beauty of Taroko National Park. (I will try harder next time!)

This ends the 4 hours of sight-seeing in Taroko National Park which was one of my most memorable experiences in my life. My memories of Taroko National Park will always have a special place in my heart.

完结

——The End——

Taroko National Park @ Hualien (Part 1) 台湾行：花莲之太鲁阁惊险记（上集）

2011-12-08T20:00:00.026+08:00

地点：太鲁阁国家公园

时间：10点

日期：十月二十五号二零一一年

离开了木瓜系，我们来到了充满灵气的太鲁阁国家公园。

有人说：“如果来到花莲，没去过太鲁阁相等于没来过花莲。”

我...是到了花莲才知道有太鲁阁的存在（更糟吧？）

不管是谁说的，太鲁阁的美除了赞叹，还是赞叹～（见识过太鲁阁才知道“赞叹”两个字以后不能随便乱说）称它为“人间仙境”一点也不为过。而它的总面积⋯⋯几乎大得无法形容，能有多庞大呢？

有920万公顷，或许你对这样的数字很陌生。它的“体积”就算容纳了一个新加坡还绰绰有余。

（2011年新加坡的总面积约为778平方公里，一平方公里相当于1万公顷，也就是说大约有778万公顷。）

也难怪我会不由自主的把自己想的像沙一样的渺小。

Location:Taroko National Park

Time:10am

Date:25/10/2011

"The name, Taroko, means "magnificent and beautiful". Long ago a Truku tribesman saw the beauty of the azure Pacific when he walked out of the gorge. On seeing the magnificent scene, he cried "Taroko!"(Information sourced from Wiki)

If you ever visit Hualien and happen to be a nature enthusiast, there is one place you should not miss - Taroko National Park.

Upon arriving Taroko National Park, its size amazed me and got my jaws dropping (which I believe will happen to many of you too!) To describe the reason behind my amazement - its Ginormous size is approximately 1 time bigger than Singapore.

The beautiful sceneries in Taroko National Park is like no other on earth, which could easily sweep you of your feet. Talk about "LOVE" at first sight!

▲ 弯曲狭窄的双行道路，经过一个接一个伸手见不到五指的隧道...

Without a torch light, walking inside this tunnel will be in complete darkness. Simultaneously, you have to be alert of passing cars.

▲ ...有如进入真实般的《侏罗纪公园》第一次看到恐龙；然后又被暴龙追的死去活来。两种极端的心情穿杂在一起，心跳加快的时候还分不清到底是被震撼还是震惊。

Experiencing a magnificent place such as this, is such a privilege. However, our reckless bus driver has also made this trip a terrifying experience for all on board.

待续...

to be continued...

Papaya River @ Hualien (Part 3 End) 台湾行：花莲之木瓜系民宿之农场篇（下集）

2011-12-07T20:00:00.000+08:00

说好是今天揭晓的，你们猜到了吗？

"它们"。。。

Have you figured out what's my favorite animal?

"They are..."

...不是公鸡

...neither the roasters

...也不是母鸡
.....nor the hens

▲...^_^是长很可爱羊驼^_^猜到了吗？
...the most adorable animals - the Alpaca!

▲ 喂羊驼时间到了！
It's feeding time!

▲ 这是奥丽微
Meet "Olivia"

奥丽微：“你在偷拍我吗？”
Olivia: "baaa...I want the food you're holding on your hand... baaa."

▲ 它是赞，没错很赞的赞
Say hi to "Mr. Awesome"

▲ “赞”有一双老外的眼睛
Mr. Awesome with his pair of Casanova eyes

▲ 把食物挂在身上的是“New Year"
"Mr. New Year" - named after his birthday

▲ 它是黑妞
Don't ever think of messing with "Black Mama"

▲ 它是天使...and meet "Miss Angel"

▲ 翻滚吧Angel
"Rolling Angel"

奥丽微：“Kimochi~”

Olivia: "I feel good~tadadadadadada~"

▲ 羊驼常在进食有喜剧的表情和肢体动作（这又是什么？）
Alpacas often look hilarious while they eat

▲ ♥_♥我被电晕了~(乖~姐姐把你带回家）
"Prince Charming" ~Can I take you home?~

▲ 作者不是我...
Interesting doodles (Wasn't me who drew these...)

▲ ...是黄老板的客人为羊驼而画的
...they were drawn by talented guests who loved and stayed at Papaya River countryfarm house

完结

—The End－

Papaya River @ Hualien (Part 2) 台湾行：花莲之木瓜系民宿至外景篇（中集）

2011-12-06T20:00:00.002+08:00

(影片取自：Youtube)

坐上脚踏车，嘴角带着幸福的微笑；

心里重复的哼着《第三十六个故事》的主题曲

假装自己有着影片里 1：20－1：34的帅气

现在开始就跟着我骑着脚踏车漫游四周吧~

Turning on my "carefree" mood, coasting on a bicycle and taking in the fresh air.....

I am so ready to explore this!

▲ Surrounded by blanket of paddy fields

▲ 比我长的还高的满天星
Gypsophila repens (taller than me!)

▲ 韭菜园

Chives garden

▲ 长满小眼睛的韭菜圆

▲ 不舍得让我们离开的韭菜阿姨

待续⋯⋯

to be continued...

Papaya River @ Hualien (Part 1) 台湾行：花莲之木瓜系民宿之住宿篇（上集）

2011-12-05T22:47:00.000+08:00

地点：台北车站

目的地：花莲木瓜系民宿

地址：花莲县吉安乡光华8街176号

参观时间：8：50早上
日期：十月二十五号二零一一年

有一天，懒洋洋的独自一人泡在cafe,随手抓了一本杂志突然发现我妈和我共同喜欢的动物和民宿。
母女俩，二话不说的决定这一次花莲的行程。
3个小时的路程，心里不断浮现出它们天真可爱的样子（非要卖关子不说是什么，你们将就我一下好了～两天后自然会揭晓），民宿好不好已经放在其次。
后来，到了也住过了木瓜系民宿，我只能说：100分。
原来真正的卖点，是动物和民宿本身。
回想那一天，抵抗不住台湾秋老虎的天气的我终于病倒了。
在旅游的过程，我们换了好几家酒店，虽然卧病在花莲但睡得最香甜的晚上也是花莲－木瓜系民宿。

Location：Taipei Railway Station

Destination: Papaya River Country Farmhouse
Address:176, Hualien County, Ji-an Township,Guanghua 8th St, Taiwan 973
Time: 8:50am
Date：25/10/2011

On a cheerful morning, my mom and I headed to Papaya River(B&B country-farm house) at Hualien. It was our first time travelling by train in Taiwan. The journey from Taipei to Hualien takes about 3 hours and according to my friend, Hualien is the largest county in Taiwan and is very well known for its natural sights.

Papaya River Country Farmhouse in Hualien, is one of the very few places that rears our favorite animal. Without hesitation, we made a last minute arrangement to stay here before embarking onto Taiwan.

By far, this is the best stay we had in Taiwan. Well, I have to admit, I wasn't expecting too much of the accommodation. As I stepped into the farmhouse, I was impressed by the amount of effort that the owner had put in into his country farmhouse. The decor of the farmhouse has been carefully selected with choice materials used for all its furnishings. This is evident in the entire building and also its surroundings. Needless to say, the magnificent view and the luxurious size of our room was well received.

As the most exciting part of our entire Taiwan trip, we soaked up and pampered ourselves after the week long hectic journey and enjoyed the slow pace of life in Hualien.

▲ 8:50am

乘着自强号由台北车站前往三小时外的花莲
3 hours journey to Hualien

▲ 座位前有很可爱台湾海报
I discovered a cute illustration that promoted Taiwan Tourism...

▲ 也是名插画师Adrian Johnson为台湾操刀的作品之一，名为Natural Beauty

... and was called Natural Beauty and it was created by renowned British illustrator - Adrian Johnson.

I always loved vintage themes, and seeing his work it reminded me a lot of the 1960's fashion trends where bold colors were married with a sense of humour.

Image sourced from Adrian Johnson official website

▲ 走进大门

▲ 传来的是淡淡的桧木香

We were welcomed by the natural scents of the cypress furniture

▲ 暗中偷拍露天洗澡的小白
Candid Camera!

▲ Ohayoo~早餐准备好了！

After a well-rested night's stay, we were ready for a sumptuous breakfast!

待续⋯⋯

to be continued...

Jiufen (Taipei) 台湾行：黃金山城之九份

2011-11-30T20:00:00.000+08:00

地点：九份
时间：五点pm
日期：十月二十三号二零一一年

基隆出发，经过弯曲的山路终于在太阳下山之前抵达九份山城。

Location: Jiufen

Time: 5pm

Date: 23/10/2011

Departed from Keelung, passing through long and winding roads. Finally arrived in Jiufen safely and managed to catch the glorious sunset.

▲ 透过夕阳的光可以隐隐约约看到山的层次
Layers of mountains glowing under the sunset

▲ 夕阳正撒满整个九份，还好能赶上这一刻把它记录下来
The beautiful sunset blankets the mountainous town

▲ 假日的九份，人山人海
Every corner in Jiufen is flooded with people

▲ 进入九份老街，拐个弯就可以找到传说中的芋圆汤
The first thing you must sample in Jiufen Old Street is the super tasty Taro balls

▲ 亮灯后的热闹街道，为九份填上一层复古的味道
When the lights go on, the atmosphere livens instantly

▲ 布袋戏木偶
Taiwanese glove puppets

▲ 听说夜晚的九份老街是千与千寻的灵感来源之一，
照片来源：维基百科
Are you a fans of Hayao Miyazaki? According to Wiki, Jiufen Old Street is one of the inspirations for his masterpiece - Spirited Away
image sourced from: Wiki

▲ 很匆忙的走玩九份老街，唯一能让我停下脚步的是以茶、陶、画结合的- 九份茶坊。除了九份茶坊外，还有一家兄弟店「天空之城」。
I am neither a tea nor a coffee person, but I am very fascinated with the extraordinary ambience in Jioufen Teahouse

▲ 一进门，让我想起小时候在等待食物的情景。一股木炭香和冒着蒸汽的锅子，迫不及待的想要知道锅子里到底藏着什么？
Into the shop I took my first step, engulfing me with this familiar charcoal smell that reminded me of my grandma's rustic kitchen

▲ 时间有限，没办法坐着品茶。很想把眼睛看到的全部都拍下来，不听话的手还是没办法留着最美的一面。
I can't help by taking numerous photos, although they look much prettier in reality

▲ 打破传统的茶坊，品茶又怎么会是老套的玩意呢？
Having Chinese tea in such a breath-taking place is a dream-come-true!

▲ 不捨得的心情离开了茶坊，沿路走回头时看到很多神秘的巷弄。
"I will be back soon!"

▲ 时光倒流的夜，仿佛又回到了十岁
A surreal night brought me back to my childhood days

▲ 有人说，九份的白天和黑夜犹如置身在两个不同的世界。
Night and day in Jiufen belong to 2 different worlds

▲ 越夜越美丽的山城
What a nice scene to end the trip :)