Scoop On Layne

Ambarella Plum Sorbet

2011-05-02T01:09:00.002+08:00

Got the inspiration for this sorbet from a drink so popular at a Ipoh Chicken Rice Shop located in Kota Damansara that I usually frequent. I think they have one of the best chicken rice around, but they also make the most amazing blended Kedondong (a.k.a ambarella, ambra, golden apple) and sour plum drink. I have been to many other eateries which also serves this very drink but no place prepares this drink better. In fact, it was the boss himself that suggested the idea of turning this drink into ice cream. He says instead of drinking it, people could then slowly savour the taste by eating it. I thought better sorbet, to maintain likeness to the drink.

Two days later in the morning as promised, he shows up with 5kg of kedondong fruit and I decided to make this new sorbet that same afternoon! End result is a really fresh tasting sorbet, tartness of the kedondong is rounded and balanced by a mixture of sourness and saltiness of the grated sour plum. To thank him for his brilliant suggestion and also obtain his stamp of approval on the taste, I sent the Chicken Rice Boss a batch of the sorbet that very same evening =)

A.L.O.E: Kota Kinabalu in April 2011

2011-04-24T02:01:00.002+08:00

A.L.O.E = A litte of Everything

This time I bought a one way ticket back to KK because I didn’t know if I should stay for 3 days or a week. I ended up staying 20 days. Well there are more valid reasons to why I extended the trip but at the same time I had fun. I owe it to a good friend who made it a point for me to experience new things, meet new people, discover the new eateries in town and also the club scenes. For all that, thank you for including me in your circle of friends and reminding me that KK is still made of beautiful people and beautiful experiences. These are some of the best things I got to do and experience in KK this trip.

HAKOD OASIS SPA @ Warisan Square

Started off the hot stone foot reflexology treatment with fish spa! I have heard about fish spa, but I didn’t know if I was ready to put my feet into a pool filled with hungry Garra Rufa fishes. Apparently they are always hungry and never seem to get full. There were four of us in the pool, me being the last one to enter, and all the fishes just swam from the others and ‘attacked’ my feet. It was a little scary for me in the beginning. They looked like fat leeches. But later I was all giggles as the fishes nibbled at my dead skin. My only tip would be to bring a friend to chat with through the session just for the distraction. After the fish spa, the skin is baby smooth. The hot stone foot reflexology that came after was awesome!

ULTIMATE FRISBEE

I have been invited to try out this sport a couple of times when I was still based in KK, never did get to try it. This time I finally attended a few of their practices. What I love most about the game is “the spirit of the game”. There are no referees, and fouls and disputes are actually discussed among the players based on the simple rules of the game. Naturally this calls for honour, respect between players and fair play. In the essence of maintaining the spirit of the game, they are more than happy to welcome new players to try out and they make it easy for you to understand the game. They play on the Tanjung Aru field every Sunday 4-6pm and at the beach Tuesdays and Thursdays 6pm to 8pm. I was so confused the first two times I tried and play, but it got a little better the third time I joined them. My only regret is not getting to play the 2nd week and 3rd week I was in KK because I twisted my foot.

OUTDOOR PHOTOSHOOT with JenifferKu

A few months ago, I turned 30. I normally take a picture of myself every year on my birthday just to document how I have changed every year. This year I am honoured to have Jennifer Ku, a very good friend to capture me. I have had some studio shots done at the studio before but this is my first time having a shoot done outdoors. We went to Nexus Karambunai for the shoot. It is also Jeniffer’s first photoshoot but we wanted it to be relaxing and fun. A girls day out!The concept of the shoot was just Elaine. I asked Jennifer, who am I in her eyes and asked her to try to capture that. So I would just be me and Jennifer would try to capture me as who she saw me as. Had my own minimal 5 minute makeup done and it’s good that Jennifer does not believe in touching up the face on Photoshop. So happy with the results and the high quality prints she gave me simply because I think I really look like me with a beautiful setting as a bonus, unlike the other photos that were taken of me at the studio where the make up was probably too much. We did the shoot in under 3 hours, including running in and out of the rain, scouting for good background, etc. It is funny that in the beginning I worried that I wasn’t an experienced model (and I am not) and she was worried that the photos will not turn out (even though she has captured gorgeous photos of her children) as she wanted them to be. In the end, we were just having fun and I was laughing away. At one point I remember her saying to me “Ok, I think we have enough of smiling and laughing shots. We need contemplation shots.” LOL. That contemplation look on that rock was hard! I have 5 insect bites to prove it. Haha! I wished we had more time to take photos before dark so you would have more time to experiment, also wished that the weather was a little better but nevertheless what I enjoyed more than anything was having a chance to catch up and laugh with a good friend who is also a supermama. I know that you will make something out of your passion Jen =) Thank you for such a memorable time. More to come…

The one other thing I normally do whenever I am in KK is Sunset watching. KK has glorious sunsets! This trip I watched sunsets from a roof, from beaches, from a platform on the sea (sort of) and from a hill!

The End!

Random thoughts & a soothing lullaby…

2011-03-13T02:07:00.000+08:00

Late Saturday night and again I can’t sleep. Tummy rumbling so got up and had my own cookies & cream ice cream (probably not a good idea, sugar rush!), figuring what to do. I’ve finished reading all my novels, watched all my DVD’s and Astro seems to be showing repeats. Been glued to CNN and Al-Jazeera since yesterday just to watch the latest news on the Japan Quake and Tsunami aftermath and the worldwide relief efforts being undertaken. Watching the news channel nowadays makes me sad and angry, so many sad stuff happening around the world. Or is it, that only sad stuff makes a good cover story? It is like a gossip goes round in a minute and a good deed goes unmentioned or is just forgotten. Anyways, I got online again. Browsed YouTube, stumbled on this song and fell in love with it. Love the simple melody and lyrics.

“Can we just slow down, while you make this mistake, so my heart don’t break~~” “I’ll be forever yours” Nice sing-along and a soothing lullaby. (starting to feel sleepy now) Tyler Ward has some amazing songs. Love his quirkiness in his videos. Check him out. Time for bed! Happy Sunday everyone!

Avocado Ice Cream

2011-03-07T01:14:00.005+08:00

One of my favourite ice creams is AVOCADO ICE CREAM. Avocadoes has a creamy texture and very subtle taste. The blended creamy flesh of ripen avocadoes combined with a great ice cream base results in extra smooth and densed ice cream. Avocado ice cream reminds me of the avocado milkshakes I drank in Indonesia, so I normally top mine with chocolate sauce. It is difficult to get Avocadoes in Kuala Lumpur. I can only find the imported ones from South Africa and Australia. So making this ice cream here is expensive! One small avocado cost RM5.00 to 6.00 each in the supermarket. I even tried scouring few wet markets and still I see imported Avocadoes.So this time I asked my brother who was returning from Sabah to KL to get me as much as he could carry from Sabah. I was so excited to see them when he arrived. Avocadoes are in abundance in Sabah when in season. I have seen some as huge as a papaya when I used to buy them at the market! The ones he brought back were not as large but they were still larger than the imported ones we have here. Now I have a plan to get avocadoes air flown in whenever someone returns from Sabah.

Saturday Night Reflection

2011-03-06T00:25:00.004+08:00

It is 11pm on a Saturday night, Om Mani Padme Hum by Imee Ooi is playing in the background coupled by the sounds of the falling water in my guppy aquarium. After a session of yoga in my living room I try to forget everything else and find inner peace. When I open my eyes from my 5 minutes of meditation, I thank God for this comfort and luxury I am surrounded with. Yes, I am like others out there, every single day there is havoc and new problems to resolve but I am still thankful to be in a comfortable place and at least I have power to influence what goes on in most of my daily life.

Having nothing to do I sorted out old emails in one of my older email addresses. Found a link to my old blog. I started blogging back in 2006. I am not an avid blogger by any standards, you can call me a 'casual blogger'. The only reason I blog is perhaps to share my thoughts at the same time I hold back because I am worried about how much I was putting myself out there. Conflicted, Haha! I find myself laughing at a few posts I published in the old blog and appreciating those happy moments I had. We sometimes forget about those privileged happy moments we had and I guess writing them down or blogging about them freezes those moments for future reflection. Just like what a photographer does. He captures a photo of a scene so that when we look back we can remember.

There is a nice memory about this song that is playing in the background now as I write. I don't think I told anyone this story , people may find it insignificant. Anyway. it was 2006, I was so lost. I was overwhelmed by so much troubles. It was the first time I prayed to God and confided in Him that I couldn't take the burden and the trials, although I know that He would never give me more burdens then I can handle, I just couldn't be more miserable than I already was, I needed help. To people who know me, I am a person who never easily admitted defeat, and I felt so defeated. I believe God sent me an Angel as an answer to my prayers. This guy who came into my life and just picked up all the broken pieces. On one of the occasions when he had to leave KL, I was again very sad because he being there made everything okay. He opened his lap top and played for me another version of this song. This song is a Buddhist Chant and I am a Catholic but I felt calm. It reminds me of Gregorian chants. I started sobbing, and he just held both my hands and asked me to breathe. I found difficulty breathing in between my crying and he said we'll do it together. He motioned me sternly to breathe in and out, but I was occupied by shame and by the need to apologize for breaking down in front of him. I felt silly but he tighten his grip on my hands, asked me to close my eyes and focus on nothing but breathing together with him. After three inhaling and three exhaling breathe I felt better! He didn't solve any of my problems then, only I could do that and only I had the power to choose which road to take. All he did was simply being there for me and showing me that I could only be in control of the whole situation when I am first in control of my emotions and thoughts. That to me was more powerful. Until today when things get too much, I remember to Breathe.

Memories like this how small, brings me much happiness. Good night all.

Moroccan Inspired Ice Creams

2011-01-19T17:34:00.008+08:00

We received a request from one of our clients who was hosting a Moroccan themed dinner party to make for them Cardamom or Cinnamon Ice Cream for dessert.

I for one love spices and I am quite adventurous when it comes to trying out new flavours. However, most of the Malaysian customers normally prefer classic flavours. So I get excited when customers request for out of the ordinary flavours like cinnamon and cardamom.

We decided on making Cinnamon Ice Cream as I thought it would be easily more accepted because it is sweet, aromatic but not too overwhelming. Cardamom has a faint lemon taste and eucalyptus overtones which is nice but indulged as it is, am not too sure. I would think combining Cardamom with another citrus fruit would make a lovely ice cream.

Made a rich ice cream mix and infused Cinnamon sticks in milk together with a stick of Madagascar vanilla bean. Nearing the end of the freezing process we added cinnamon powder so that every scoop of ice cream would contain golden specks of cinnamon.

This ice cream would go well with a chocolate dessert or any poached fruit like apple or pear!

Walaa~~~The finished product!

N.B. Post published on written date. In February, we also made Coffee Cardamom Ice Cream and Orange Thyme Sorbet for other clients.

Welcoming 2011~

2011-01-11T11:25:00.004+08:00

Its 1.1.11 today! New Year started with a bang this year with a party with good friends at the Ice Bar Street Party Bash with Hitz FM, although by my watch and friend's watch countdown was 5 minutes pre-mature.

{Play the video while you read on =) My favourite song for now. Linkin Park Rocks! =)}

To think of it 2010 went by just like a snap of a finger. Normally, I would had planned my 2011 Resolutions but this time round, I didn't really think about it. The next morning I woke up after one the best sleep since I had in awhile, and realized that I had to have some form of resolution or goal to achieve in 2011. I normally would have a long list of detailed things to achieve, but this time I wanna dedicate 2011 to having a joyful life.

I want 2011 to be more fulfilling personally I want to be happy every single day, not worry too much or over analyze situations too much and live in the moment for we never know when is our last. Worries doesn't take us anywhere. I want to love myself more, listen to my heart, find love again, receive love, be loved and love like I've always loved. Okay okay… sounds corny or a way tad emo, but I believe we do our best in lives when we are loved or in love. All of us wants to feel appreciated and wanted one time or another. This is gonna sound greedy but I also want financial freedom by focusing on my business and other opportunities that has surfaced. It has always been my dream to be financially able to help those in need. =D

From business aspect, 2010 had thrown me a multitude of obstacles and I am blessed to be working with equally passionate, dedicated and brilliant people. Doing business always involved risk and because of the hardwork and morale support of a few key people in my life, we are still here and happy to report business is good. 2010 was all about starting up and entering into the market, with yummy and consistent products. I remember making that decision in late 2009 to come to Kuala Lumpur and gave it my all and it has been a year and we are on stable ground. We've seen other businesses around opening and closing since, it reminds me every single day to stay grounded, focused, humble and appreciative in this current economic situation.

I look forward to 2011 although all the Feng Shui experts says that 2011 is gonna be a bad year for this little monkey. I scanned through all the feng shui books at MPH and this year decided not to get any. Ha Ha! I put my faith to Lord Almighty instead for He has been there and I trust as always He will bring me through any tough times ahead. My life philosophy have always been to try to do something good everyday and be nice and I think that matters.

Ending 2010 is a little nostalgic as it also marks the end of my twenties (boo hoo) and I must say the twenties was one heck of a roller coaster ride. Looking back, am appreciative of all the experiences including the difficult and dissapointing ones. They have made be stronger and taught me to be more careful as life isn't a bed of roses. Plus, I do always have a tendency to see the good in people I meet and never question their motives until it is too late. 'Humans are scary' my good friend used to say. I didn't understand that 6 years ago and always argued with him but, I find that very true now. Humans often tend to complicate matters which are otherwise very simple. This applies to work and also personal relationships.

You like your job or believe in your business, do it 110%. You love a person and think that they are perfect for you, appreciate them and love them 110%. My 2 cents worth of advice!

Here is a prayer which I think is powerful and summarizes what we should do to be at peace and accept and welcome whatever 2011 brings:

O Lord,
Help me live this year quietly, easily,
To lean upon Your Great Strength trustfully, restfully;
To wait patiently, serenely;
To meet others peacefully, joyfully;
To face each sorrow courageously.

AMEN!

The Lazy Bug

2010-11-03T18:24:00.004+08:00

Today, I've got the Lazy Bug. I have got tonnes of work to do and but no urgency or motivation to do it. I feel guilty feeling this way sometimes, even when I am my own boss. Yeah, am paranoid like that sometimes.

Cutesy Lady Bug - got my toenails painted that lovely bright red =)

I was thinking this is the best time to go for a holiday, alas I don't think my schedule permits it and I gotta save some G's for bigger things. For now, I'll settle for a Pedi and Mani and a cup of Bannofie Ice cream. Hopefully, tonight after my gym session I will feel alive again, get some adrenalin pumping.

'Busyness' = Business

2010-10-07T18:43:00.003+08:00

Again, left this blog untouched fot the last 2 months. Things have been hectic, but I always say only in busyness you have business! Business have been improving, and opportunities keep popping up for me in terms of business expansion and also personal growth. I am Blessed.

On the business side, we shall be opening 3rd, 4th and 5th kiosk/parlour before December. More news on that to come.

On the personal side, somewhere in September during Raya when business was slightly slow, I went back and took a look at what I used to do (financial protection & wealth planning) and joined a new Life Insurance company in Malaysia AXA-Affin. A few real life episodes in the recent years made me realize how important insurance was for an individual and families. Misfortune, sickness and death is something inevitable so everyone must have an umbrella for rainy days. When I was approached by this Top Fortune 500 company and the No. 3 insurer in the world, I thought why not? Fits my goal of being able to help people. So if any of you reading this need any free advice from a friend, please call or email me =)

We also celebrated the birth of Elena Victoria Lian. Elena is first born daughter to my staff James. I was honoured when he and his wife asked me to name her. He said their wishes for her was to be like me. To be as beautiful and as intelligent. I have to admit I was touched. Elena is a precious little thing. I think my love for her started while she was still in her mummy's tummy. Brought her mummy to hospital for checks every month. The joy a baby brings is indescribable. Everytime I am with someones baby I think "I Gotta have one of my own soon!" Haha! Next week will bring Elena for her boosters and registration. Like her parents, I hope that Elena will have a better life then what her parents had to endure.

Finally a whole weekend off!

2010-08-20T17:20:00.002+08:00

Having the weekend off this week. Not totally, would have to go to the fruit market in the morning to buy some fresh fruits to make the sorbets our client ordered. Thought of doing something different so plan to take a drive up to Port Dickson for some 'me' time and relaxation. Perhaps, indulge in some good seafood in Lukut.

Would like to share a song by Sinead O Connor, one of my favourite timeless songs.

Have a good weekend all! XOXO

Moving on...

2010-08-09T12:33:00.000+08:00

Silence was Golden...

2010-06-28T19:20:00.009+08:00

-Drafted in May 2010-

I sweared I would come back and blog some more after that February entry. I have been super busy sorting out my life. When I opened up my account just a few minutes ago, I found 36 unmoderated comments of which half I deleted because they were repetitive or spam.

I sense alot of negative vibes coming from a few acquaintance because of my long silence. I for one hate keeping people in the dark because I know how it feels like when I am kept in the dark. However for once, I hope for your understanding and hope I don't give the impression that I am arrogant or selfish for wanting to keep my decisions to myself before blasting it out on facebook or blogging about it. If you know me well, I am a thinker, I go to sleep thinking. So you must believe me when I tell you I do it for a purpose, and sometimes my silence is not meant to hurt you or keep things from you but simply because I am not ready to tell. I have these tendency to be over concerned about everyone's emotions, I am afraid I don't have it in me to deal with everyone's whys? and whats!! at this point. What I forgot was this world is too small and Malaysia is smaller. And oh ya facebook... it may not be me that blast news around but someone else could be doing it for me and that someone could be friends with this group of acquantainces. Gone were the days that meeting up was the only way to catch up. FB is now the accepted way of keeping in touch even without actually saying a word or actually typing a word on their wall.

So what have I been up to and why I decided to be doing this. In March, I started my own Ice Cream Company (not related to the Company in Sabah). I have my own brand name and different recipes and flavours which my team perfected. We make Ice Creams from scratch. No use of premixes, artificial flavouring or colouring. We use only the finest natural ingredients and the best fresh milk from frisien cows you can find in Malaysia. The result of this is smooth, dense and creamy ice creams. So we call our product Artisan Ice Creams.

Now why did I decide to go into Ice Cream again?

1) making ice creams makes me happy.

2) it is a passion, I am excited to get to work every morning and feel immensely satisfied with what I have achieved in the evening.

3) there is no better reward when seeing how such a simple thing as ice cream made with love can make another person smile.

So right at that time when I left, after 2 weeks of doing nothing and finally getting a chance to really take a break after 3 years of working 7 days a week, I naturally wanted to go back into ice cream. There were few offers related to ice creams but in the end, I thought that I did not want the risk of repeating history, and if I were to go on to having my own ice cream business I should be in it alone. This way, I gladly take the blame for mistakes I make, I take all credit for achievements I have made and I have the luxury of working with people who truly care and share my vision.

After much thought and getting support from people closest to me I went back to the drawing board and I started planning a future.

There are times before this where I often feared that I would fail, but a person who has been a pillar in my life for the last couple of years promised me that things would be alright. If things didn't turn out well we will both make it ok together. I also believe that God is watching over me and somehow how rough things get, they always get better.

So thats what I am doing. Ice Cream... so whats the big deal right. Big deal is because I didn't let certain people know until I had 80% completed my business project. I love you all but please understand that it was something I had to do for myself without the help of anyone else. I already had the help of two of the people I love most and my God who has been good to me.

So Cheers! to the future and bigger things that are to come!

XOXO

Coming out from the dark!

2010-02-05T18:38:00.004+08:00

Hello people =) I have been deliberately silent over the pass 6 months, it's incredible to be so silent as I am usually more verbal. So many things had happened over the last half year of 2009 that silence until recently was golden. This is to report I am alive, kicking, happy, and at peace, but life as always has its little dissapointments. There were certain events that made me feel like I am finally more in touch with my emotions. Emotions that I have blocked out for so long because I needed to focus on work. I am such an emotional person but over the years I got so good at hiding it and more often then not put on a strong front for the world to see.

The worse event for me was a passing of a very dear friend. It is true what they say when they say things are never going to be the same again when someone dear to you leaves. There is no healing until there is acceptance. To this day I am still accepting the fact that he is no longer here. Although I had never took his friendship for granted, still there are mixed emotions all the time whenever I think of him. I questioned myself why and I think it is because of fear I would never find such a great confidante and such true friendship. Some friendships are just too deep and profound to describe in words. Like his family and other friends who saw him as how I saw him, I will miss & love him always.

I took certain big steps middle last year and I have no regrets whatsover. For me the most important thing is family and I would like to keep that relationship good as far as possible. For some reason I feel I made the right decision. I would never had forgiven myself for not coming out on my own. Even if I am to fail I know that at least I tried and if I have to spend time repaying back for my failure, at least I am moving forward and not being stagnant.

So far, everything is falling into place =) God is great and I have always felt that even in the darkest moment he is there watching out for me. I am eternally grateful for the love and support of the few key people in my life. You know who you are. I LOVE YOU! They kept my spirits up and gave me the love & support I needed. This sounds like an award acceptance speech. Haha! But I sincerely Thank you for reminding me that it is okay to give up and take a breather sometimes, that it is okay to lay my burdens down. Most importantly to love myself first and give myself more before I can continue to give to others. I learnt that to receive sometimes can be difficult when you are so used to giving. A dear friend opened my eyes on how I looked at things when she said that receiving is not being selfish. I am no Superwoman, so I spent the last of 2009 embracing being just a humble human being for a change. I too realized I was physically and mostly emotionally drained and that left me agitated with myself all the time.

I look forward to 2010 and while 2009 were full of tears of frustrations and dissapointments I am sure 2010 will be full of tears of joy. My focus this year will be on growing my little venture, to worry less, to spend more time with good friends, to laugh more, to exercise more and to embrace sprituality more, to surround myself with positive people & to continue to love hard!

My Message: Strength and Love Stand Together

2009-07-29T13:10:00.009+08:00

"The balance of severity and kindness: If you really love yourself, then you must be severe with yourself. If you truly love others then you must be severe enough to caution them about things which are truly harmful. Strength without love is mere violence. Love without strength is empty."

-A Shorinji Kempo Principle-

There has been lots of things happening in the pass year and certain events that I knew would happen but stayed on anyway. I believe in forgiveness and giving chances although I have come to know certain people very well. All I have to say is that I have no regrets and my conscience is clear. Everyone has a chance to own up to their mistake and sometimes some people have gone too far that the road back to rectify things seems impossible for them now. So they have to make things worse just to defend the wrong words they said before. They have ruined friendships by twisting stories and they have broken up family units. They are not to blame as there is evil in everyone and greed of power.

The truth needs not be preached. It will surface.

I believe that every experience is valuable and every person you meet along the way has its purpose. I also believe in the Almighty and His plans for me. This is a test which He knows I am able to handle and so I have no fear and doubt that He will guide me.

Perhaps this is a test for them too. I pray that those who were mislead will find the truth and the people who are victims of the lies will showcase the strength to withstand. I have thought of multiple solutions and chose to leave for the benefit of three parties which will unfold as the few months passes by. To my little soldiers =) march on... it has been a pleasure to work with you all and having seen the tremendous growth.

I have Love and I have the Strength from the true friends and family members that matters most. Best of all I have the choice of decisions and freedom to do what is right and fair from now on.

The change begins today and now. Off to the airport!

Picture of the day!

2009-07-25T01:50:00.003+08:00

L-R: Myself, Des (TL), Joe (RM), Siti (TL)

The team at the Sabah Fest 2009. I am truly proud of all my staff, especially all the team leaders (TL) commitment. I am happy to be working with all of you and the rest of the team. May you guys continue to give the best everyday and as we always say, "Anything for Vedablu!" =D

Sabah Best 2009

2009-07-25T01:13:00.005+08:00

A picture of our booth from the Sabah Best Expo 2009 that took place at the Sabah Trade Center from June 26th to 28th. The turnout to this exhibition was not as we anticipated and alot of the other booths closed early. I wonder why....

I love children. I enjoy the way they express themselves. The boy in the picture is the son of our booth neighbour. His parents did not want him to have ice cream and throughout the event he hanged around our booth. He kept asking for a taste and I was taken with how smart he was for a 4 year old boy. I laughed so much talking to him. Finally, we got permission from his mum to let him have a small scoop of ice cream.

In return for the ice cream his mum told him that he must market Vedablu Ice Cream as payment in kind. This boy will grow up to be an amazing marketeer. He went out to the main entrance stood there eating a scoop of Belgian Chocolate, and as people came in he declared loudly "Jom... beli ais krim~~!!" ("Come on.. buy some ice cream~~!"). People actually came and bought ice cream! He was very persistent and everyone thought he was the most charming boy.

I told him to eat faster, because his ice cream was starting to melt. He told me that if he ate faster it would finish faster. He then asked me if I could keep him in the display freezer so he could finish up all the ice cream! LOL!

Vedablu @ 24th Sabah Dragon Boat Race

2009-06-21T21:09:00.010+08:00

After: Picture taken during 20th June (Saturday) late afternoon

Events often take alot of planning and time. There is never a guarantee of us having good results, but often we do this to be apart of the happenings in our small town Kota Kinabalu.

Before: empty space before the set up

Like many other events this year, this is the first time we set up a booth at the newly constructed Public Park at Tg Lipat. We got a nice place under a huge tree next to the stage area. The weather was so hot... that our freezers couldn't maintain the needed temperatures to sell our ice cream like we do in our outlets. We were thankful though for the strong winds, that kept us cool, but kept blowing our large banners away.

Multicoloured flags

Attached are just a few of the before and after photos of our booth set up. Didn't manage to take pictures while the races were taking place because we were also busy serving our customers in the booth. All the pictures were taken with my mobile phone. While I was sitting and resting at the booth, the multicoloured flags that fluttered in the wind against the backdrop of a clear blue sky caught my attention. I felt DBKK (our municipal council) particularly did a good job at this event keeping the whole area clean, as compared to other events we have joined. So... my weekend was spent in Tg. Lipat working, while watching the sea and sunset. Next weekend, we will be setting up a booth at Sabah Trade Center for the Sabah Best 2009 exhibition showcasing all things Sabah. Hope to see you there.

Hospital Likas Blood Drive @ City Mall

2009-06-16T01:11:00.007+08:00

This is the second time we are sponsoring the annual blood drive organized by Hospital Likas held in City Mall. The event was held on June 6 -7, 2009 . This year it was bigger and there was more hype as the blood drive was held in conjuction with a Baby Show.

This year Vedablu sponsored 600 scoops to blood donors and participants of the baby show.

Participants and blood donors, getting their ice creams!

The Baby Show, sponsored by Mother Care and Kids Avenue

Vedablu 1 Borneo Parlour

2009-06-16T00:49:00.005+08:00

Been meaning to upload a pictures of our newly opened parlour since 2 weeks ago. Been too busy, but here it is, Vedablu's 3rd parlour and 8th outlet opening.

We are situated just behind the Tuah Baker's Kiosk, opposite Face Shop and next to Magic Bite on the Concorse level.

Products we carry here include Vedablu Premium Ice Creams (a minimum of 15 flavour selections), Ice Cream Cakes, Classic Cakes and Pies, Ice Cream Based Desserts, Hot/Cold Coffee, Tea and Chocolate Beverages and Fresh Fruit Smoothies.

If you happen to be in 1 Borneo, and craving for good quality ice cream, come and visit us!

Vedablu @ 1 Borneo

2009-05-28T14:23:00.002+08:00

Vedablu will be opening at 1 Borneo on May 29th, 2009 instead of the earlier scheduled May 28th, 2009.

See you there tomorrow!

XOXO

Harvest Festival 2009

2009-05-25T16:58:00.006+08:00

Harvest Festival is approaching this weekend. Come and join in the fun at Honkod Koisan KDCA for the Unduk Ngadau Finals!

Drop by and visit our booth from May 16th to May 31st at KDCA.

Vedablu Outdoor Booth Set Up at KDCA May 16th - May 31st, 2009

After a long wait, Vedablu is also opening its parlour in 1 Borneo this May 28, 2009. Swing by and visit us at our newest outlet.

Finally its raining!

2009-05-15T13:49:00.003+08:00

Its Raining!

It has been so hot and humid, I feel like I have been in a dizzy state daily. The weather makes it impossible to work efficiently. The frequent power cuts are certainly not helping. The only thing that keeps my spirits up is consuming some cooling Vedablu Ice Cream and looking forward to the climb up Mount Kinabalu this Monday. I told one of my colleagues a couple days ago just as a passing remark and they burst out in laughter. "I'm going to get to the summit and never come back down, until this humid weather passes". There is something about this hot and humid weather that affects people. People around me appear more grumpy and easily agitated. At a certain point this morning, I was also easily agitated, but now the rain has washed it all away.

On the upcoming Mount Kinabalu climb, I am truly excited about this climb, yet I feel a little bit nervous with the little preparation I made. I keep telling myself, as long as I do the climb slow and easy, I will make it! Well at least I have made an attempt to accomplish one more thing on my "things to do before I hit 30 list ". I hope that the weather will be clear on Monday and Tuesday.

Happy Harvest Festival!

2009-05-13T01:05:00.009+08:00

Tadau Kotobian Kaamatan!

Celebrate Harvest Festival with Vedablu with our Harvest Festival Special, Rice Wine Ice Cream.

Also from May to June, get Biscotto, White Chocolate and Truffle ice cream selections 50% off on their 2nd purchase, after purchasing similar item at regular price.

Visit the Vedablu website for more details.

See you at the KDCA Harvest Festivals Celebrations from May 16th to May 31st, 2009.

Sabah Fest 2009

2009-05-12T21:53:00.015+08:00

This was the first time Vedablu joined Sabah Fest 2009, held at the Grand Ballroom of Magellan Hotel. The highlight of the event is the cultural show that was performed every night at 8pm. Outside along the grand ballroom foyer there was a live showcase of sabah handicrafts and booths of locally made sabah products. To fit in the theme and to support our local traditions, we sold mostly tropical fruit premium ice cream. Many were happy just to have ice cream, there was also many asking "where is the yoghurt forest berries ice cream?" "Where is mascarpone cheese ice cream?" before settling with one of the tropical flavours.

The biggest question was "Is Vedablu a local product?" This question is addressed in my previous post. The answer to that is Yes. Vedablu is locally produced daily but it is made from an italian inspired recipe, giving you only the best tasting quality premium ice cream that is fresh!

It is in events like this, we get to spend more time talking to our customers, half of them regulars. I always have fun getting to know them and in part slowly changing the mind set of new customers that local produced products can be far more superior then imported products. I think the Harvest Festival setting is the best time to do so as we celebrate local traditions and customs.

This event, I must say personally is one of the most fun and entertaining. There were many old friends from other local made food industries (Sabah Tea, Simply Chocolate, Balung, etc) and also new friends were made. I love the the sound of traditional instruments and there was no shortage of that during the day as they practice for the nightly shows. There were 700 performers walking in their colourful traditional costumes.

A special praise should be sent to Seri Pelancongan for the amazing job they did with the decor. See the before and after photo below! I was there 2 days before the start of the exhibition and they turned nothing into something awesome. There were even skulls hanging from the bamboo pillar next to our booth!

(Before)

(After)

I will update a few other photos from partner's camera not to far from now. Many thanks to the team for hanging tough and for being as cheerful as ever. Next event --> KDCA Harvest Celebrations here we come! Another grueling 2 weeks 16th -31st May, 2009.

Half way through April!

2009-04-16T00:17:00.009+08:00

I feel like every day is becoming more and more mechanical sometimes. Life as I discovered lately has been, getting up, work, coming back late starving, work, going to bed, sleep... and its time to repeat the day again. Monday to Sundays. I used to get so pumped up every Friday because its the weekend (err ok... that was a few years back when I was working for someone else! I secretly miss those days sometimes =( )

The team has been so busy with events this month since March. Last week we had two events and mobile kiosk running simultaneously. One at the Sabah Golf and Country Club (SGCC) where we sponsored the 21st Amateur Golf Open and our other booth set up at the Hotel & Catering, Food pack and Manufacturing 2009 held at Sabah Trade Center.

I totally forgot to snap a picture of the booth set up in SGCC but this is a picture I took from my mobile phone of the booth set up at Sabah Trade Centre.

This week also we finalized the recipes of our own hot chocolate drink and ice blended chocolate drinks. We will be introducing these somewhere next week. Took these photos also with my mobile phone during the training done for our outlet team leaders.

I will be off to Singapore for a week long short course training on technical aspects of ice cream this weekend. Looking forward to the course as the speakers are flying in from America and between two of them, have decades of experience in the ice cream industry. I have already started listing my questions, exciting!

Just bought my tickets online at zero fare on jetstar! KK to Singapore direct at RM61.00. Incredible!

Note: I still have not started my climb training for the climb to mt kinabalu in mid may... and I am stressing my self crazy thinking about how not prepared I am for the climb.

Relocation of Vedablu Palm Square

2009-03-31T11:22:00.003+08:00

I was feeling a little nostalgic overseeing the dismantling and breaking down of our kiosk in Palm Square last night. At 8pm we started disconnecting the machines and equipments, by 9:30pm the carpenters came to dismantle the kiosk itself.

Palm Square was where Vedablu first started and introduced our premium ice cream products to the people of Sabah back in 2006 October. I remember making the ice cream myself and then going to the kiosk standing there with my colleauges of the company, Laura and Christina scooping and selling ice cream to the large crowd all surrounding our kiosk to taste and get some of our products. From that outlet back in 2006 we have grown to another 4 more outlets in Kota Kinabalu, one in Tawau and another in Sandakan.

Based on some business strategic decisions we have decided to move to another shopping mall, after getting much feedback from our customers who frequently shop at 1 Borneo during the weekends. For customers who are shopping around Center Point, you still will be able to get Vedablu Ice Creams, just a few steps away from Center Point at our parlour at Warisan Square. You will be able to enjoy a broader selection of ice cream and other products there as compared to Palm Square.

We also opened a Factory Kiosk in Taman BDC Shoplots just across our factory. The factory kiosk also serve as a training ground for all our new staffs. Ice Cream prices are a tad lower compared to the shops to encourage customers around the Kelombong area and Taman BDC to come visit us.

We are commencing renovations in 1 Borneo very soon and we will soon announce our opening date. I personally thank you for your continous support and understanding.

Home Decor Sabah 2009, Buildcon Sabah 2009 & Home & Security Sabah 2009

2009-03-25T18:43:00.008+08:00

Vedablu Premium Ice Cream is going to be setting up booth in yet another exhibition this weekend. We will be setting up booth this evening at Sabah Trade Center.

This event will commence March 26 (Thursday) to March 29th (Sunday). Time: 11am - 7pm.

For more information please you can refer to their website.

I do not have much information right now on the exhibitors and events happening in the next couple of days at this exhibition, but I will have a peek tonight and update this post if I am able to. Saying that, I look forward to see the exhibition and get some inspiration from the latest home decor trends available in Sabah. See you there!

Vedablu Premium Ice Cream Latest Promotion

2009-03-23T23:00:00.004+08:00

Get 50% on your 2nd purchase of similar ice cream based product for Apple Pie and Zabajone (Egg Nog) Flavours! Promotion commences March 25th, 2009. Click on Promotion Poster above for more details.

Vedablu Gaya Street Outlet - shoot location

2009-03-21T12:54:00.003+08:00

Been meaning to do this post for some time. I have received many requests for photography and film shoots to be done at our vedablu outlets especially the outlet in City Mall and Gaya Street. However, I am going to highlight the recent photoshoot that was done at our Gaya Street outlet by another brilliant local professional photographer Melvin Migin.

He approached us a couple of weeks back to use our outlet at Gaya Street for a fashion photoshoot for a boutique, Porgie. We have been given several catalogues each to be placed in our outlets and I must say Melvin did an incredible job capturing the models in their apparels. To see the cataloge and his other portfolio you may go to his webpage or his blog.

Skies of Sabah

2009-03-20T19:48:00.007+08:00

Tanjung Aru Beach

Just a few pictures I took of the skies of Kota Kinabalu. Was editing a few cake photos on my computer and stumbled across these pictures I took on different occasions. I always thought that we had one of the most beautiful skies especially at sunset. The colors are always so warm and magnificent.

KKIA Airport

Outside my office in Kelombong

A Little of Everything (ALOE)

2009-03-19T02:06:00.004+08:00

The IPEX 2009 event went quite well. This year we aim to do more events, bring Vedablu to the customers as we say. Most of the customers at the event were overjoyed we were there because the ice cream was a bribe for their children to stay well behaved while their parents made their rounds at the booths =)

On Saturday there were many events lined up. One of the more interesting one was the Edible Architecture Design. One of the teams bought a waffle cone from us to finish off their design. So I went and took a photo of their Edible Architectural Piece. It was the the Kremlin and Red Square of Moscow. Although they did not win, they got a special mention. Way to go St Michael!

Events are always tiring... especially where we are placed outdoors. The booth we have is like a mobile booth. Before each day begins and at the end of the day, we have to rearrange and rebundle all the parts of our booth. Took a couple of photos with my phone camera before the closing. So I apologize first for the poor quality

Am working on a few other things at the moment... from a full cake design menu, the next few months promotions, and materials for the Vedablu Roadshow. Am also looking for a Marketing Executive, fresh graduates welcome, more importantly the person should have a sense of creativity and are able to design and use graphic design softwares.

Also been spending some time updating our SOP's and improve the operations to be of the ISO 9001 and HACCP standards we are in the midst of obtaining.

Admist all this I have been trying to squeeze in some exercise to prepare myself for my Mt Kinabalu climb which is happening on May 18th. The thought of the climb is freaking me a little. Looking at the rate of my preparation right now... I can safely say I will not be able to make it to the summit. Thus, I need to spend more time training!! Sigh...

Good night people!

IPEX 2009

2009-03-05T13:02:00.003+08:00

As an effort to be involved in more events, for our 2nd event of this year we will be putting up a booth at the IPEX 2009 exhibition to be held from 12 March - 15 March, 2009 at the Sabah Trade Centre.

IPEX 2009 showcases the latest development in Malaysia architecture, properties and building materials.

In addition, there will be lots of activities happening at the exhibition for people of all ages.

-Children colouring & drawing competition
-Edible architecture Competition
-Photography competition
-Best decorated booth
-Ms IPEX Personality Contest
-Fashion show
-Charity concerts

Look for our Vedablu Premium Ice Cream booth located to the right of the main entrance of the Sabah Trade Centre. We will be having some of our own promos. See you there!!

Kuala Lumpur Trip

2009-03-02T23:23:00.008+08:00

I probably go to Kuala Lumpur (KL) a couple of times every year. This time there was a purpose. To settle my 2nd brother, Eugene into his college and new living space for the next 3 years. I always look forward to tasting new ice cream when I am in KL because new Ice Cream Kiosk and Parlors are budding everywhere however somehow this time I did not get to taste any besides Gelatomio which is ownedd by a close italian friend of mine.

However, I did manage to have some other memorable snacks and meals. The first day we landed, my mum had a craving for steak so we went to Tony Romas in Pavillion. I had the prawn pasta which was delicious and they were really generous with the prawns. Brother, mum and aunt all had the rib combo.... huge!
I think smileys is a Tomy Romas thing because they introduced the sauces to us on a plate and it became a smiley (see above picture). Later when they came with the bill, it also had a smiley!

The next meal worth the mention was the Satay Celup in Melaka. Eugene loves this stuff, so we made a point to have some when we were in Melaka. We have something similar in Sabah called 'Lok Lok' but there is a difference. Here we place the food sticks to cook in boiling water then dip in peanut gravy. In Melaka, you cook your food sticks in boiling peanut sauce. Yummy indeed. I am trying to re-call the name of the place but I can't. But this satay celup outlet is the cleanest satay celup place in Melaka.

On a certain day, I decided to go watch a movie on my own. After an appointment and wanting to avoid the KL jam, I decided to watch a movie. It had to be in GSC Cinemas because I just love their caramel popcorn. I decided to watch the movie in The Gardens GSC Premiere Cinema. There was not even 10 of us in the cinema. I watched Valkyrie, real good movie while munching on my golden caramel popcorn ;)

Halfway munching... I thought of how this would make a nice topping on Vedablu Ice Creams. Just think of it! Caramelize popcorns and some Vanilla Bean ice cream... Mmmm

Happy Belated Valentines Day

2009-02-17T01:45:00.007+08:00

Happy V day to everyone... hope all you couples out there had another yet beautiful and memorable Valentines Day.

Mine was spent like any other day. Work and troubleshooting of work situations. Before I go into work stuff let me just say this for food of thought...Everyday is Valentines day in your heart and mind if you have found 'the one'.

Ok.. this is what happened. 7pm... black out in my residential area and soon after as I suspected, I get a call from my Citymall outlet. Black out! Sabah Electricity really gotta do something. We really have too many blackouts. I found myself in the dark in my house... as my parents and my dear brother Eugene (the handsome boy in the picture above) was preparing to go out. I contemplated for awhile and then also headed out after making few calls. So spooky staying home in pitch black darkness. I think all my neighbours were also out because it was so dark and quiet in every direction.

I arrived my destination at 8pm and after awhile at 8:30pm got a call from Citymall outlet again saying that they had to evacuate the building because there was a fire. !@#$% Hmmm... there were talks about there being an explosion. At that time the only thing they knew was that they had been some explosion that happened in the basement just beneath Giant and the fire department said there could be a bigger explosion. So now the worry of lost sales became worry of a burnt down outlet. We later found out that it was Giant's generator. It was overloaded during the blackout. However they manage to stop any other occurences of an explosion. The electricity only came back on at about 9:30pm. We had to close early that day on V day, to the dismay of the many couples who wanted to treat their loved ones to some sweets. In result of this, our other outlets in kota kinabalu town became busy and our customers had no sitting place to enjoy Valentines Day.

The sad part of this story is this... we Sabahans have so many blackouts that we have somewhat accepted it as part of our lives. Buinesses have really been impacted by these blackouts.

So much for a peaceful Valentines night... After all the commotion has settled and the outlets did their closings. Then we watched a movie, Slumdog Millionaire. I recommend this movie to everyone. The moral of the story, at least for me... there are reasons for the many things that happen to us in life, may it be joyous or difficult. What matters is the journey and the result and the end of life's journey. The whole story of the Slumdog Millionaire took place and was filmed in Mumbai. Amidst all the slum I wish I can one day visit this place and other parts of India. I am in love with the film's soundtrack, Latika's Theme.

After watching the movie, it seemed that Valentines Day was perfect again. =) Enjoy the video~~

A Little of Everything (ALOE)

2009-01-23T00:47:00.005+08:00

My first 'ALOE' for 2009.

CNY is round the corner, just after we celebrated New Years Day. Time is really passing way to fast.

First on a more personal note:

I wished I could have blogged today from my new spanking desktop. A birthday present from my dear dear family. Thanks to them I have fulfilled one of my 2009 New Year's Resolution. What more can a girl ask for? Intel Core2 Quad CPU @ 2.33Ghz, 4GB RAM, NVIDEA GeForce 9800 GT... I wanted a better graphics card but too bad it wasn't in stock at the shop. This present is really a good surprise, and I must thank my dear brother Eugene for helping lead my parents in the right direction. LOL!

A present to myself after much contemplation would be HTC Touch HD. I really need to get organized if I want to get more things done in a day. This will really help me be more efficient and effective. My poor Motorola Razr has to retire after 4 years of service.

I turned 28 a few days ago. Somehow this birthday this year feels different. I don't think I look much different from 2 years ago except maybe for fine lines under the eyes and its harder now to stay fit if I totally don't do any exercise. But I feel different. Its like this year I feel that I have to make more difference in my life as compared to the years before because the clock is ticking and still so much more to achieve.

Now on Vedablu updates:

1) We will be opening our factory outlet kiosk tomorrow. The shop will be just across our ice cream production lab. Ice cream is not gonna get any better then that.

2) CNY Ice Cream Flavour, our Mandarin Orange Sorbet is back!

3) Don't know what to give your loved ones and friends when visiting them this CNY? Why don't try some of our Orange Inspired Cakes?

Mandarin Orange Cheesecake : Orange Cheese cake topped with mandarin orange slices

Belgian chocolate & Orange Cointreau Ice Cream Cake : These two flavours are a really a good combination, topped with orange peel, dark chocolate and orange marzipan

I wished I had the pictures so I could post in up here.Will update if I get them.

I wish everyone Happy Chinese New Year, Gong Xi Fatt Chai! May the year of the Ox bring more prosperity, abundance, peace, love & happiness!

Sabah Motor Bonanza Fair 2009

2009-01-07T23:09:00.004+08:00

If you are fanatic about cars or are thinking of buying a car come visit the first ever outdoor Motor fair event in Kota Kinabalu. Event will be held from 9 January to 11 January 2009 at the Likas Sports Center, Open Space Parking area. Time: 9am to 9pm.

What to expect at the event? Luxury Cars, Used Cars, Re-cond cars, Car accessories, car performance and racing parts, Bikes, 4X4 shows, fun fair for the kids, etc.

Vedablu will be setting up booth, so drop by for some cool and fresh premium ice cream. See you there this weekend!

2009 Here I come!

2009-01-06T18:04:00.002+08:00

My first entry in 2009...

Something felt different as I ushered this new year under the car porch staring up into the clear sky, listening to the few burst of fireworks, but not being able to see any. I made a silent prayer of thanks for the many blessings in 2008 and hope for the blessings to continue in 2009. For the not so nice moments of 2008, its best just to learn from and forgive those who has caused those moments.

So many New Year wishes through sms, and I apologize to those I failed to reply. My inbox of my 4 year old Motorola Razr (first edition) can only fit total of 100 sms. I get frustrated just to delete sms just to be able to reply to some sms. Thus my first resolution. Get a new phone! Or rather two new phones... for the two numbers.

2nd resolution is to complete my 2008 resolutions. Which are ...

1) Climb Mt Kinabalu (doing it in May 2009..yippie!)
2) Move out (in the process)
3) Get a Scuba diving license

My resolutions this year is more simple. 2009 resolutions:

1) To be more organized (no. 4 will help me achieve this)
2) To do more exercise (my own place will give me more space to do my pilates)
3) To pay more attention to personal life and having more alone time
4) Get myself a new touch phone
5) To get myself a new high spec desktop (so finally I can play Sims 2 and the new coming Sims 3)

I bid everyone Happy New Year and may there be more wonderful things to come for all of us.

Cheers!!

Food & Beverage Expo 2008, Kota Kinabalu

2008-12-12T18:28:00.002+08:00

To all Sabahans and to those who would like to know more about Sabahan local products, please visit the Food & Beverage Expo from December 18 to 21, 2008.

Vedablu will also run a booth. So swing by and visit us!

Venue location: Sabah Trade Center, Likas.

See you there!

Lets talk Gelato Flavours!

2008-12-04T15:06:00.004+08:00

One of the things on my to do list today was to design some new flavour tags for my new ice cream flavours for Xmas and New Year. The two new flavours are Green Apple (milk base) and Red Wine Sorbet.

So as usual, 'google-ing' for ideas, and one website let to another and I came across this very nice website about Italian Gelato. The post was Italian Gelato Flavors Decoded. Check it out! Very informative as we have so many Italian flavours and we have many customers asking what are those flavours and others even dare not to order because they are afraid of pronouncing those flavours. I truly understand, because even all our staff are trained to pronounce each and every flavour name accurately.

Ice Cream flavours are endless and there are no limitation of ideas on what to create. There is only one limitation though being in Sabah, raw material! How are we going to source raw material for these new creations without going overboard on cost? Truth be told, we lose on some we make on some just to bring our customers the diversity of flavours.

Quirky Tag!

2008-11-25T13:45:00.007+08:00

I am so busy and not even supposed to be blogging here, but it is lunch time and I am so sleepy to be effective in doing work for the next half hour or so. I must fight this sleepiness, not easy after only about 4 hours sleep last night.

Becoming stressed out and was just dropping by to a few friend's blogs. I got a QUIRKY TAG from Melissa. Don't know how it works and how many quirky things I have to jot down, but will start and see how far I get.

Quirky things about me:

1. I am a chilli addict! The spicier the better. If I can I will put chilli in everything I eat. In soups,rice, porridge, noodles, pastas, pizzas, steaks, u name it. I think my spicy and hot tolerance is quite high and friends often wonder how I even taste the food past the chilli. See proof below:

Very spicy stir fry in Beijing

Look at how much chilli that was in that bowl!

2. I am quite an emotional person but also made strong after a few life changing experiences. I get hurt easily but also recover easily. Whats quirky is that, I have got this thinking where everything should be mind over matter and as soon as I decide to stop being emotional I build a wall and the problem cease to exist. So alot of people who do not know me well will regard me as cold and without emotion.

3. I am afraid and have a phobia of all kinds of insects no matter how small, especially cockroaches. In fact, I can sense a cockroach within a few meters radius from me.

4. I cannot whistle and no matter how hard I try whistling. So when people whistle I hum to the music.

5. I can never till now make a snapping noise when I snap my fingers.

6. I cannot eat outside alone.

7. Since I started to paint my toe nails when I was 17, I can't stand the sight of unpainted toe nails.

8. I don't like the idea of having to share a bed with another lady friend or even close relatives. When there are certain occasions which require me to share a bed, I will gladly relocate myself onto a sofa or the floor and give them the bed to themselves.

Thats all the quirkiness I can think of.

I now send this Quirky Tag to Jacq, Virgil & Ezoone!

'Tis the Season to be Jolly~

2008-11-12T22:27:00.003+08:00

People who are not in the food & beverage line or the service line, will be rejoicing. People like me have some mixed feelings as we know that during the season to be jolly we are painstakingly making all the preparations to give our customers the best Christmas experience they can have!

In our ice cream business, the list of preparation goes on and on starting from decor planning, to development of new Christmas ice cream flavours, new dessert menu, new promotions, changed operations, staffing, etc.

Tomorrow I will be going into the factory to concoct a few new delicious flavours with the production team just for the Christmas and New Year. Then working with our pastry chef to try out some very nice dessert ideas we have. Can't reveal anything just yet.

Apart from that, the expansion continues, the new lot we have is being renovated to fit in a mock kiosk or parlour for better staff training and to increase storage for all the stock of raw materials we import from italy, packaging materials from kuala lumpur, etc.

Soon 6 weeks would have passed and then we would have to reflect on what we have done in 2008 and welcome the new year. However, that will be another story.

Latest Scoop on Me.....

2008-11-06T00:56:00.005+08:00

Haven't posted anything up lately. For a month actually! Been doing a lot of catching up since returning from my study trip in Denmark for 5 1/2 weeks, then was in China, then back in town but somehow, it just takes time to settle things that has been piling up for months. It takes time to get back in sync with life and work too! Alot of things can change in 2 months.

As hectic as it was in Denmark somehow I really enjoyed my time there and would return again anytime... and sometimes would still close my eyes and wish I could teleport myself out of here to be stress free for just 5 mins.

So Obama won!! Yeah!! I went to work late just to watch the final results of the votes and to see the future President of America make his speech. He will start his duties on January 20th 2009. So I will think of him, on my birthday =)

End of the year is approaching fast, and it will get busy a week from now when school holiday starts. I will be in Brunei for a couple of days next week, and then from there on, I expect it to be non stop working till after NEW YEAR next year. I am also fretting about the thought of going christmas shopping. I really am bad at shopping, and never can figure out what to get my family and close friends.

I leave u with 2 pictures from my trip to Denmark. Picture 1: Me, team mate Yvonne and our host father Paul at one of the entrances of the Carlsberg Museum in Copenhagen. Picture 2: Me and a very old Bible from 1686, yes that Bible is 322 years old!

Ice Cream Makes My Day

2008-09-26T06:33:00.005+08:00

Been here for nearly 4 weeks in Copenhagen. Its funny, how I can crave ice cream when I just miss it for a day. These are 2 pictures of ice cream I ate in Copenhagen.

McDonald's McFlurry Berries DKK10.00 (RM7.00)

Paradis Ice Cream, Baileys & Chocolate Flavour, DKK22.00 (RM15.00)

I have eaten many other ice creams but did not take any photos unfortunately.

First 2 weeks out of 5 weeks in Denmark

2008-09-13T23:05:00.006+08:00

This is day number 14 in Denmark. Currently am on the Cruise Ship called the Crown of Scandinavia. We left Copenhagen on Friday evening, arrived Oslo, Norway this morning and had the day to roam around the city.

The national song is playing now as it leaves the Oslo Harbour to return to Copenhagen. This 14 days has been full of activities from morning to night. It is tiring but yet fulfilling. So far I have learnt alot from my prearranged work vocation courtesy of the Rotary Clubs of Denmark.

I have stayed with 2 wonderful host families.

A picture of me on the ship yesterday at departure:

Sunrise at 6:30am this morning:

Picture of the full moon from the cruise ship (photo taken & courtesy of Chan Tzun Hei):

Packing for 5 weeks

2008-08-27T22:37:00.002+08:00

I love travelling but absolutely hate the idea of packing especially for a long trip. It will be Autumn in Denmark. Pros, at least don't need to bring too many clothes because when you don't sweat, you could always re-wear your clothing. Especially jeans! The Cons is that, to counter the cold and wind, you would need to bring an outer jacket, a wind breaker, sweater, scarves, cardigans, etc. I had to dig my closet for my autumn/winter wear and had them dry cleaned.

I may be a girl but I hate the idea of travelling heavy and lugging around luggages. I can live on the minimal, and do find having minimal items on a trip rather refreshing. However, I got a feeling its something I cannot avoid for this trip as there will be many souveniers and brochures to carry, not to mention my Murut costume which will already be taking up a few KG's. After all its not a holiday. It is a work/study/culture exchange. Sigh...

I will be leaving on Friday and still haven't started sorting out what to pack. Am currently working out the list on all that I have to bring, so I do not forget anthing.

In addition to that, I haven't gotten all my work done to prepare for the time I am away. I guess no time shall be sufficient because there will always work to be done if I stay put here here. The time the plane takes off to Stockholm from KLIA, I think I will begin to relax.

This may be my last entry for the next couple of days, will try to blog more about my travels and shall try my very best to be the best ambassador for SABAH and Malaysia =)

The Journey to opening of Vedablu Sandakan

2008-08-23T23:41:00.002+08:00

With less then a week to the opening date of the Sandakan Vedablu franchised outlet, and awaiting completion of the renovation works, the anticipation grows. Those attending the opening and later be a regular patron will see the shop complete and in order, would not know realize the effort that some of my dedicate colleagues went through to get things in order for the opening. There has been alot of work going on in the background, items to order, compililation and alot of coordination with different suppliers. Today, the team working together, completed I would say 80% of the journey.

Ice Cream Display Freezer (500KG) already on, now to maneuvour the ice cream showcase freezer, steady does it.

The other 20% would be the unloading of all the goods that we sent from Kota Kinabalu on a 15 tonne truck, unpacking, arrangement, testing of all the equipments that has been tested here and programming done, final training, with all things in going through the operation & service flow of the outlet, duplicating our operating systems in Sandakan, etc.

Part of the chinaware...

I will not be there for the last 20% of the journey, but I am happy to be part of the team that did the most hard work. The team is not huge but consists of a few dedicated people who I think are amazing because they really went the extra mile. Christina (FC), Joyce (The PA, 8 mths pregnant and active), Laura (Production manager cum everything else when Im gone for 6 weeks), Kazumi (Acct Exec), Jairyn (Production Supervisor), Mamek and Jo (Production Asst), and the team whill be going there without me :( Nanie (Pastry Chef) and Siti (Team Leader). I know that you all be feeling the reward and satisfaction after all the hard work because we all share the same dream and nobody knows better then ourselves. There were so many little details...even the most petty details needed handling and I am confident you all will do well.

Part of the Vedablu printed packaging materials to be sent

Honestly, at times when I feel times are hard, I remember why we are doing this and look at your dedication and I am honoured to be associated with all of you. I don't think anyone else, inspite me documenting this here will know the 'difficulties' we all tackled.

Professional transporters/movers required for professional transporting needs

Tomorrow there is still the hurdle of the productions. As we really only produce on the last minute to ensure freshness. Tomorrow is again production day (on a sunday) to finish certain flavours that will leave on the freezer truck on Monday.

Although I will be flying off to Denmark for my study exchange and will not be able to participate in the opening, I am very excited and anxious for our franchisee and Vedablu. Wish I could be there but I have faith in the few team members and it will be the greatest outlet opening to date.

Alone Time

2008-08-22T01:24:00.001+08:00

Once in awhile, I feel this need to have alone time. In this alone time, I will spend time doing things for myself and probably for my own sanity. I think its important for us to love ourselves and spend time on ourselves before we can continue helping and being there for others. Too much giving takes a toll on you sometimes.

The things I do in my 'alone time':-

Take a long drive somewhere to clear my thoughts
Have a long hot bath
Watch movies at home or in the cinema
Cook myself a good meal or bake a cake for my family
Shopping in a supermarket or malls
Personal grooming

No matter what, or how alone I may want to be there is one thing I don't like to do alone.

Eat alone ( so I either don't eat or buy some food go somewhere to eat alone without people around)

I think most men will not have problems eating alone, but I know a few ladies as well who hate to eat alone.

When do I need alone time?

When I am stressed out and need time to sort out problems
When I need space or privacy to be emotional
When I am just too too tired to even put on a smile or have a conversation

No matter how important the alone time is for me, there will always be a person or two who may be an exception that I always wish could be with me after awhile. They understand me well enough to know to be with me and make me feel better without me having to say anything. Some people just have a calming presence.

Vedablu Sandakan Opening August 31, 2008

2008-08-21T18:36:00.003+08:00

Our Licensed/Franchised Outlet will be opening in Sandakan on Merdeka Day, August 31st. The two storey Vedablu Shop is located in Taman Utama IJM, beside Giant supermarket.

Enjoy the full range of Vedablu Premium Ice Cream products, fruit smoothies, specialty coffee, pastas, desserts and a selection of ice cream and gourmet cakes.

Sadly, I will not be there but our team from Kota Kinabalu will be there to celebrate this seventh opening of Vedablu outlet.

For Vedablu fans in Sandakan, look out for your local newspaper advertisements for cut out discount coupons and free scoop coupons for redemption!!

Craving for Chocolate

2008-08-15T01:49:00.001+08:00

Chocolate...who doesn't love chocolate. For the past week or so I have been craving for chocolate. I love chocolate, but never had I have this kind of craving before. Worse, I eat more chocolate and drink more hot chocolate just before bed time. I have been having at least half of bar of chocolate (those large bars) and at least 2 cups of hot cocoa. I do not know if its stress or just body telling me to stack up the sugars because it needs it. After a week, I am starting to worry about the calories. =(

A Picture is worth a thousand words

2008-08-14T01:34:00.002+08:00

Pictures are better then explanation or storytelling sometimes. While uploading some of my product pictures into photobucket, I thought that it would be a good idea to add a slideshow here. Somehow or rather the size is not right...hmm gotta figure out how to fix that another day.

I will have an early night tonight (if 1:36am is considered early. Good night~~

More to 8/8/8 then Beijing Olympic 2008

2008-08-13T10:31:00.000+08:00

This event is so great and amazing that for a time there I expected the sales to be lower on 8/8/8 and maybe didn't really mind. Today during my meeting and briefing with my team leaders for the outlets they commented, " Jie, ( they call me big sis, I prefer that to boss), 8/8/8 punyala kosong, sebelah kita biasa penuh itu Old Town White Coffee pun kosong oh". Translation : "Jie, it was so queit on 8/8/8 due to the olympics, even Old Town White Coffe was empty".

I missed the opening because I attended my friend, Ben Liew's wedding dinner. However, would not have missed it for the world. You two are a beautiful couple Ben and Lindsay. Gorgeous wedding photos (featuring the long house and rice paddy fields of Sabah) and beautiful families the both of you. Ben joked and thank us for coming, actually full attendance at the 55 tables, because he only had to fight against the biggest event in the whole wide world. Then he said he chose 8/8/8 not because of its meaning to be rich or prosperous but because, his parents wedding falls on 8/8 and because her parents wedding annivesary also was 8/8. This was very touching. Then the two extra huge cakes were brought out and their parents cut the cake. It was really a surprise for their parents. Then Lindsay's dad sang Bob Carlisle's 'Butterfly Kisses' to her. I nearly cried. Yes yes... I am an emotional person. But moreover, I always told my mum, I wanted my dad to sing that on my wedding day. The best things about weddings though is you really get to hang out with old friends again. This is a picture of us who attended.

So the wedding ends... I reach home just in time to see the torch being lighted up. Amazing! I think China out done themselves. KUDOS! The next morning I saw the repeated telecast on Astro. I was more awed. Nobody could possibly have done better. The numbers and the discipline they have was extraordinary. They have really raised the bar to an unparallel level.

Incorporating their traditions and trade into the show

Delicate details and beauty of all their costumes

Globe and faces of people of the world depicting unity through one event

End of ceremony with fireworks display seen here from the inside of the "birds nest" Olympic Stadium.

More Weddings to attend, in this month. I joke to my friends, why wanna get married in 8/8/8? Shouldn't we be focused on 9/9/9. I would prefer 9/9/9 because it would mean everlasting love or marriage instead of marriage properity in monetary terms. When I mentioned this to my cousin who was married on 7/7/7 last year she said " Hey girl, to get married in 9/9/9 you must already be proposed to, made church bookings, hotel bookings, etc." Errr... ok I don't think I will make it... Just a thought getting married on 10/10/10 sounds very techie.. 101010 programming language. Lets not lose sight here... important thing in a marriage is not only the date but importantly to marry someone you love and want to spend your whole life with, that someone who feels the same way too. When you have this, the date is far from secondary.

A Little Of Everything (ALOE)

2008-08-12T05:01:00.000+08:00

I do this posts when I have not updated this blog for two reasons, ONE, not time to blog, TWO too many things happening in a day to possibly blog about. So basically its a snapshot or summary of whats been happening with me.

August 2, 2008 : The 2nd Sabah Bloggers Meet

Picture borrowed from Chegu Carol

We were one of the sponsors and I think earlier sponsors. Jacq, one of the organizing committee met up with me as early as in March I think.

I think half of the bloggers there were like hesitant to approach us at first, with some of them asking "Jual kah ni?" ("Are you selling these?"). So my two cute staff were explaining that we are sponsoring meaning its free. Then more and more bloggers started coming for the ice cream. At the end, I think there were a few who didn't get their ice creams. We are sorry. We supplied 160 scoops for free, and first come first serve. Then there was a lady blogger, who came over, and took a photo of me and my display freezer. Then she asked me, "There I took the photo, can I have my ice cream?" I found that a little awkward (not in a bad way)... there was no ice cream left, only the few which I kept for the organizing committee but I gave her one scoop. The reason why I felt awkward was that it made me feel that she was forced to in a way take a picture of me and Vedablu in order to get the ice cream. That made me feel funny... because after all we are sponsoring. Of course it would be great if you really took a photo and post them out in your blog. Anyhow, if you happened to stumble on this blog, I hope you enjoyed your ice cream =)

I must thank you for the nice comments all of you gave on Vedablu on the multiple sites of bloggers I visited when I googled Vedablu and Sabah Bloggers Gathering. For those who have always been customers of Vedablu, we are happy to be giving back to you through these sponsored events.

I must also thank my team for setting up for the event, because I was so busy on that particular day, attending to the trainings and meetings. I honestly was buggered that night. Was a super busy week for me. Was so so tired hence my lack of cheery mood and you can see from the picture above. It was nice to see this event a success, and its a brilliant idea to see how it brings bloggers together.

Will post more photos up as and when the designated photographer hands me the photos.

Training For New Sandakan Franchisee:

For the past 2 weeks the training for the new franchisee was being conducted. I think both of them have graduated marvelously. It was nice being with them. They will still be with us till the 19th this month. Vedablu, Sandakan is scheduled to be opened on August 31, 2008. The out is located near Giant and IJM. This Vedablu Shop will be the biggest so far, with Ground Floor, 1st Floor (available for event bookings) and an outside seating area.

New Menu for Vedablu Shops:

In the next couple of days we will be introducing a whole new range of pies, cakes, ice cream cake and Pasta at our City Mall Shop.

Pies:Chicken Pie, Coconut Pie, Peach Pie, Pumpkin Pie and Banana Pie.

Cakes: Tiramisu & Passion Fruit Mousse Cake

Ice Cream Cake: Gourmet Ice Cream Cake (Layers of Chocolate Nutty Praline, Chocolate Mouse and Ice Cream)

Pastas: Chicken Bolognaise, Beef Bolognaise, Pasta Arrabiata, Pasta Marinara and Chicken Alfredo.

Watch out for the promotions!

My Group Study Exchange to Denmark:

The travel itinerary has been tentatively confirmed. I would be leaving on the August 29th and will be returning on October 6, 2008. This is longer then expected. However, I think it will be a good trip and a good change to scenery. Am also happy because I get to share with hundreds and thousands of people in Denmark about Sabah and of course Malaysia. In the weeks there I will be living with a few host families and I look forward to this because as I was growing up, we often hosted study and cultural exchange students.

There will also be a week of time dedicated of visiting and perhaps working in my vocation. Which is the ice cream franchise!! =) I will bring back more knowledge of ice cream and make Vedablu Ice Cream better. As the time nears, I am so worried about leaving work behind but at the same time excited with the thought of having new experiences.

I shall be bringing my lap top and hopefully will find the time to blog and post pictures of my daily adventures in Denmark.

Thats all for now...

Increase of Annual Sales Threshold Applying Government Service Tax 5%

2008-07-30T20:44:00.001+08:00

Our Malaysian Prime Minister made and official statement on June 4, 2008 regarding the restructuring of subsidies given by the goverment with regards to the recent oil price hikes.

One of the changes were the increase of the goverment sales tax (GST) threshhold for eateries located outside the hotels. According to the press release, this is to ensure that the Malaysian people do not feel burdened with paying the extra 5% of GST. Previously, eateries making a revenue of RM500,000/annum must charge and collect the 5% GST from their customers. Now, the revenue threshold has been increased to RM3,000,000. This was made effective July 1st, 2008.

When we were deciding, whether to temporarily eliminate the GST, we enquired for some information from the Jabatan Kastam (Customs Department). Their response was if we felt that we would not reach the RM3,000,000.00 then it was ok to stop collecting GST. Otherwise, there is no clear guideline indicating if we should stop collecting the GST or continue collecting GST. Anyhow, we decided to stop charging the GST to our consumers effective July 16, 2008 until we hit the new threshold of RM3,000,000.

So last time, one scoop of Vedablu Ice Cream would cost RM5.88 after 5% GST. Now one scoop will cost RM5.60. Saving the customers RM0.28 cents or with the rounding RM0.30.

So tips to consumers out there. As a consumer, especially when you eat out alot, check on your receipts. Just imagine if you spend RM300/mth on eating out a month, not paying the GST's would mean savings of RM15.00! Can buy additional 5.5 Liters of petrol for the month. Also as a consumer, if you doubt that any eatery you go to is making RM250,000 per month or RM3,000,000 per year. It is always your right to enquire. Because as long as they collect GST, they would have to pay this to the Jabatan Kastam at the end of the month.

First Entry through ScribeFire Blog Editor 2.2.10

2008-07-29T18:12:00.001+08:00

I just added this super add-on to my FireFox Browser. So just wanted to test the functions out. The cool thing about this is that you could actually manage and update few blogs from one blog editor.

Secondly, you could surf the web while composing your blog entry without having to switch tabs. The browser is split into half, top is the usual browser window, and below is the editor.

I also appreciated the fact that I could add flicker pictures and you tube files directly into my blog posts, insert special characters and even check live previews of my new blog entry.

Cheese made Locally in Sabah

2008-07-28T02:47:00.005+08:00

I am a sucker for locally produced or homegrown products. Having the chance to study and live abroad there is a main difference between the mindset of our Malaysian consumers and consumers living in other western countries (I am saying the majority in general). Our Malaysian consumers has this mindset that locally produced products are less superior in quality, therefore they are more willing to pay triple the price for products that are imported because they feel it is more high quality.

Whereas, overseas, consumer picks up a products which are made in their own country.The are proud buying products which are manufactured in their own country. Not only that, they know that it would contain less preservative and would be fresher.

I have studied alot of our customer's comments and pattern. Most of them believe that our product should be cheap like other industrial or generic ice creams. Why? because they are made in Sabah. Sometimes forgetting we are selling premium ice cream, equivalent to Haagen Daz quality and we are half the price of Haagen Daz. Why can't it be lower? Well because to produce premium ice cream, we use premium ingredients, most of it which has to be imported because they cannot be found in Malaysia, otherwise those that can be found, we would use because they simply would be fresher. So we pass you the savings in our products and local consumers get to consume very fresh premium ice cream instead of those that has been sitting in shelves for months.

Even before I was a producer of ice cream, I have valued local manufactured products for its freshness. I am not saying all manufactured products are better then imported ones though. Even I am willing to pay for a few ringgit more if I felt that the products were better in quality.

Pardon me for the long story. Imagine how delighted I was when I was walking in Giant Citymall supermarket a few weeks ago and saw Cheese that was locally made! What an achievement I thought. This company Langkah Syabas Sdn Bhd is currently making cheese on a small scale at Kinarut, under the brand name 'Kinarut Beach'. Cheese like yoghurt goes through a fermentation process, therefore I can't say how much fresher it is from an imported one, but then it is a homegrown product and we should all support it.

I bought their Camembert cheese just to try it out to compare to the other imported brand, President cheese. It is not too bad actually, a little salty. I wonder if they are using Frisien Cow Milk or just regular. It would make a difference. My only comment is on their packaging. Their Camembert and Brie is okay but their Feta Cheese were not looking so food anymore on the shelf. Probably can't blame them, its probably due to the refrigeration problems at Giant. However their cheese displayed at Merdeka supermarket were better.

Their cheeses are priced about 40% lower compared to imported ones which is quite reasonable I would say similar to our ice cream products. Although made locally, cheeses like artisanal premium ice cream require a degree of attention and is labour intensive. So I would like to say Kudos to the first Cheese producer in Sabah and perhaps Malaysia. Hope to see other cheeses maybe in the future. Perhaps, cheddar, mascarpone, mozarella, ricotta or blue cheese? Mmmmmmm.... delicious.

We should support local products more, instead of bringing in branded imported products that is highly priced due to currency exchange and import duites, we should be encouraging export of our local brands by supporting first our local brands.

A Little of Everything (ALOE)

2008-07-28T02:10:00.004+08:00

What am I up to, currently burning the midnight oil again...

Things are getting more and more hectic and busy with the daily running and operations of Vedablu Ice Cream. Seems like I have been doing multiple jobs, it gets too many that I have to remind myself to focus on finishing a particular task to not get overwhelmed and over stressed with the load of work.

My calendar for the following week would be training for new Sandakan licensee, tomorrow finalizing of the SOP's for the new recipes and products that we will be introducing to you, some internal meetings to attend, and some external meetings & issues to manage and attend to, the 2nd Sabahan Bloggers Meet (click to see the list of bloggers attending) that Vedablu would be sponsoring on Saturday and also our first GSE Study Meeting to Denmark organized by Rotary International.

I am excited about the 5 week trip (31 Aug to 5 Oct) to Denmark, because of few reasons, I get to go off for 5 weeks to gain more insights from the best city to live in the world, also nominated happiest place to live in. Its good to broaden the mind sometimes elsewhere and not to think about just the work I do daily. At the same time, I can share stories on Sabah to another developing nation while learning about them. Denmark, one of the Scandinavian countries is also a very beautiful place.

I am starting to feel nervous though as the time approaches, because I have very little time to prepare for the time I will be absent from the business. Have got to secure, organize and delegate responsibilities for events that will be happening in September and October. At the same time there are presentations, gifts and cultural dances that we need to prepare for our trip to Denmark. This is the first time I am doing a cultural study exchange myself, however we always had cultural exchange students from Korea, Japan and America staying with us to few months to a year while we were growing up. My parents thought that it was good to have us experience cultures of others.

I hope that there will be time on the trip to continually update the readers of this blog on what I have learnt and seen daily. Still thinking to bring or not to bring my laptop.

Shame In Denial

2008-07-25T01:15:00.002+08:00

I read this article posted on the New Sabah Times today called Serious Migrant Problem and thought that I'd share them here. Not only for its insightful content but because of the writer's comment on 'Shame in Denial' at the end of the article.

And I quote:

There is no shame or loss of sovereignty in admitting wrongs and attempting to redress them. There is every shame and imminent loss of sovereignty in perpetuating the wrongs and denying them.

It is humans nature to let ego/pride get into the way most of the time of not admitting wrongs, and denying mistakes done. Refusing to admit is one thing but what is worse, refusing to learn from mistakes done in the past and re-doing them again, repeating history again just to deny mistakes done in the past. I see alot of this everyday and it is saddening. The writer's quote is really clearly and brilliantly stated.

Referring back to the topic of discussion in the article, I was reminded of stories of a few friends who visited Kuching for the Rain Forest Music Festival 2008 few weeks ago. I asked them "How is Kuching compared to Kota Kinabalu?" Their reply were all the same. That Kota Kinabalu was a more 'happening' place, but Kuching city is 'cleaner'. Out of curiosity I asked them, "Cleaner? How?". They explained cleaner not only meaning streets are clean and rubbish free but they felt save walking the streets. Being in the Borneo Island, we share similar borders with Indonesia, yet they have no immigrant problems. There is are no 'street kids or adults' and crime rates are believed to be lower because they have lower immigrant or 'economic migrant' problems. Apart from that Kuching is also cleaner because the city is well developed and well cared for.

Reading the article and recalling my friends' story had me pondering for awhile. How can we be so different? I am sure that all Sabahans are wishing that Kota Kinabalu & Sabah will not only be a more 'happening' place with 'happening' people, but also a cleaner place in every aspect.

Tyre Change Story

2008-07-22T20:21:00.008+08:00

Finally, I decided to commit some time after much pestering from a certain someone to change my car tyres. Since I got my car, never changed them and the time has come for me to change all four. I have already clocked 57,000km, but compared to other cars, my tyres are worn out but I must say that its not so bad. I notice the tread wearing out faster in KK, whereas most of the mileage I clocked in KL, did not do much harm to my tyres. We have to improve roads in Kota Kinabalu.

Gulp, gulp, as I waited for the tyre to be changed and alignment to be done. I went to the familiar tyre shop that all my family cars are sent to and also because the owners are good friends. They recommended me to use Pirelli tyres. My original were Conti 195/65/R15. So I replaced them with the exact specs. My new tyres are now Pirelli P7 195/65/R15 I just agreed to them because I felt that they knew what was best and I always have this notion that pay slightly extra for quality goods, they last longer. Plus, I didn't think they would slaughter me.

Little did I know, the little extra was alot extra. RM300 per tyre~~~ yikes! Steep! Later after paying the total bill of RM1250.00 (sob... sob...)The floor manager told me about about the increase in tyre prices. July 1st 2008, tyre prices increased 10% for private vehicles and 18% for trucks. Yikes!! I should have changed them earlier.

I drove away with a few mental notes on the lesson learnt today. No. 1 Do not procrastinate. No. 2 Spend some time to do some research. I could have saved RM120 if I changed them before the price hike and I could have gone for a cheaper brand like YokoHama or GoodYear.

Upside of having spent around RM30 -RM50/per tyre more then necessary is that, the drive feel is distinctively superb. The drive felt more well balanced,solid but comfortable. I am not an expert but there is a difference. Plus,they are the recommended tyres for my car make and model.

More spending to come on my car. Also time to change my brake pad and major service. That is why cars are a huge liability.

The RM625 car rebate doesn't hurt in situations like this.

Inspiring Thoughts

2008-07-14T20:14:00.004+08:00

I added an application called the Kiss Fortune (I think...) on Facebook some time ago that delivers inspiring messages daily, only that I seldom check on them. These words are simple but very wise and meaningful.

These are two of my favourite inspiring messages:-

"Fear less, hope more, eat less, chew more, whine less, breathe more, talk less,say more, love more, and all good things will be yours. Be aware of what your actions and their effects on others, demonstrating concern for another can go a long way"

I believe if we are more positive, eliminating all negative vibrations, good will come if we desire it and believe in it.

"Be patient in one moment of anger - escape a hundred days of sorrow. Passion is good, but withhold quick judgement and fiery words until you can see the entire picture. You may be pleasantly surprised"

Words spoken out of anger can be damaging because it can never be taken back and often exaggerated. Harsh words heard by a listener moreover a loved one are often hard to be forgotten or forgiven.

New Flavour Peanut Ice Cream coming your way!

2008-07-08T17:39:00.005+08:00

Im letting the cat out of the bag even before the official release in our outlets and the official website. We are thinking of a more interesting name then just Peanut beacause although its Peanut Ice Cream we added strips of chocolate pieces inside and also roasted crushed peanuts.

For those peanut lovers out there, this could be your next favourite flavour. For me, it reminds me of eating a bar of Snickers, only without snickers sticking to the roof of my mouth and my teeth. There is the taste of smooth creamy peanut butter with pieces of chocolate bits and crunchy nuts to munch on. During the tasting I ate 2 scoops, more then it was required for the tasting. This new flavour should be out soon...

Also, because we get alot of customer requests to develop more local fruit flavours like Yam, Nangka, Chempedak and Papaya. All these flavours are also pending release and final approval =)

Maybe we should call the Peanut Ice Cream, Chunky Peanuts! Or... Nuts for Peanuts!Just a thought....

My Favourite Things (Part 1)

2008-07-05T13:56:00.011+08:00

Inspired by Oprah's favourite things but with a little twist, my favourites just not limited to THINGS.

Stir Fried Mixed Mushrooms with Oyster Sauce and Chillies

Top 3 Fav food items:
1) Vedablu Premium Ice cream (naturally..HaHa)
2) Wo tiek (pan fried dumplings)
3) Mushroom (any kind of mushrooms, I love them cooked in anyway)

My favourite everyday watch

Top 3 Fav items (Things I never leave home every morning without):
1) My Lap Top
2) My Watch
3) My Cross Necklace

Wollongong Harbour, overlooking parts of the town

Top 3 Fav places:
1) Wollongong, Australia
2) My Apartment, Puchong
3) Any island with white sandy beaches and clear blue waters

Hiking along Waikato River, New Zealand

Top 3 Fav past times:
1) Reading
2) Computer Games (currently hooked on Texas Holdem Poker and The Sims 2)
3) Road trips, discovering new places

Petrol Kiosk Strike

2008-06-24T18:12:00.003+08:00

At about 2:30pm today, I was returning to the office from KK town, I noticed a buildup of traffic. As I drove I realized that the jam was caused by the long queues to the petrol kiosks. Immediately I thought that this was due to a price hike in petrol again. However, I recalled reading a press release on the PM's website, saying that the government would not hike prices for year 2008 after considering the rakyat's response to the recent petrol price hike. RM1.90 to RM2.70 is bad enough, if the government persisted to increase the prices as first planned to RM4.00, I can't imagine what the people of Malaysia would do.

After hurdling the long queues that were about 1KM long which caused pretty bad jams even not at rush hour, I finally arrived my office. I received a call from my mum telling me to pump petrol because there was going to be a three day strike where all petrol kiosks will close for business. My colleagues then further explained that the petrol kiosks were losing money with every liter sold resulting is operating losses. I do not know how true these stories are because I have not checked the real reasons behind the strike. So is this strike a rumour or truth? We shall wait and see.

In the mean time, I received a sms from Maxis stating "(The Star) Officials from Shell Malaysia and Sabah Petroleum Dealers Association stressed that there is no truth to the rumours of petrol kiosks closing for 3 days". Then at 6 pm, someone forwarded me a sms from an angry driver (very angry I presume) saying "Petrol strike start 26th 8am till 4pm. Today is rumour. Pls forward bcoz many tailingong made the traffic jam". This sms really made me laugh. Sorry for the rudeness or inappropriateness of the translations of language. Translation of 'tailingong' directly from the hakka dialect to english is ‘big **** (male private part) crazy’. Roughly what they meant to say was 'foolish people'.

Although I do not like the idea of strikes or demonstrations I feel that it comes to a time when something more physically obvious (not like punching or hurting someone) should be done to show the government the people’s dissatisfaction. I think most people are angry that the government implemented the oil hikes without putting much thought about the long term. We see day in and day out the stories in our newspapers about the plight of lower income families. Trust me, there are families who are much worse off then those who shared their stories in the papers.

From business point of view, raw material costs has risen to an average of 40%. Business owners find it difficult to increase prices because then it will too expensive for the customers. On the other hand, there is pressure for salary increases. For instances, for sales people, without higher transportation allowances, how could they perform their jobs effectively? After adding the increase in raw material costs and other operation costs, nothing is left actually. The huge daily hurdle is now just to sustain and hope for the best because no business wants to run to see just losses month after month. Business closes down, there will be retrenchment, unemployment rate goes up, economy slows down as spending decreases, increase in non performing loans, etc.

I personally would like to see what strategies the government has in place to counter the many problems that the Malaysian economy will see in the next coming months. This is just the beginning of something more grave to come if nothing is done to rectify situation.

By the time I finished this blog entry, I got a call telling me that there is no more jam and no more strike. The issues behind the strike threat were discussed and resolved. Well… so much for all the hype. I just am thankful I did not line up for petrol for few hours this afternoon. I would have ended up wasting more petrol.

Lets Celebrate Harvest Festival with Tapai

2008-05-28T18:18:00.004+08:00

Harvest Festival is coming up! We have something old and familiar to celebrate this Harvest Festival with you at Vedablu. Presenting... Tapai Ice Cream (Rice Wine Ice Cream) and Tapai Cake (Rice Wine Cake). We call this the Fiesta Delight.

We had this last year for Harvest Festival. Our brilliant Production Manager, Laura actually came up with the idea when we were thinking of what could we introduce in our outlets. We were brainstorming and when asked outloud what could we do for Harvest Festival, it was synonymous. "Tapai!" Some customers may like it and some customers may not. Tapai or Rice Wine is unique tasting and normally more loved by the locals. For the adventurous, alcohol lovers, and tapai lovers this is a must try. I don't like drinking Tapai but I love eating the Tapai cake, so I have been having these daily since Monday! The cold tapai ice cream mixed with the tapai cake is so yummy. Having one now infact...and took a picture of it few seconds ago so I can upload it here.

HAPPY HARVEST FESTIVAL IN ADVANCE!

A little of everything ! (ALOE)

2008-05-27T23:36:00.008+08:00

I have been trying to recuperate for the past few days. Catching up on sleep, trying not to stress out at the same time, thinking, I can't sleep now 'coz I have lots of unsettled things to do. I keep listing them down in my daily planner. Sadly I never can finish them. Then I tell myself to breathe...

So many things happen in a day for me. I wish I could like state every little detail here so this blog will really be about my journey. Because I've missed many of my chances of writing the little 'beautiful' details that always happen. Would like to share some of the little joys that happen daily in my life.

Like this quick snapshot I took on my flight to Tawau several months back that I meant to post up but never did. Glorious clear sight of Mount Kinabalu. We were passing over the mountain so fast, barely had time to adjust the camera settings. I just snapped.

Then, in last few weeks back, I taught my staff to be more diligent in our ice cream pan display decorations. I believe we first feast with our eyes then our mouths. Although pan re-decorations can only be done during the not so busy times. On weekends,for the busier outlets, not practical to be doing re-decorations all the time, because staff are too busy serving customers to even have the time to re-decorate the ice cream pans. On one particular day I walked into the City Mall Vedablu outlet and was happy with what I saw. Beautiful ice cream pan decorations =)Little things like this make my day.

Today I dedicated my day to cleaning the clutter on my desk. The picture is only half the clutter I had on my desk. I think seeing the clutter on my desk and not having the time to clear them adds to the negative energy I am feeling. Seeing my desk clean and my room tidy now really does lower down my stress and anxiety levels. Haha. Psychology...

Another task which I have been trying to get done is to get online to purchase a new laptop, taking advantage of the 12 months 0% interest. Plus, after reluctantly having to pay extra income tax this year, I have given myself a justification to get myself a brand new lap top so that for YA2008 I can claim the extra RM3000 deduction. I think I have an emotional attachment to my current lap top. Its the very heavy 15.4" Travelmate 430. Bought it back in 2003. Its nearly 5 years old now. Didn't realize it was that old. Well its Pentium 4. Only that the graphics card can't play the latest games. I upgraded the Ram to 768MB. However, this laptop is falling to pieces slowly. Half of the letters on the keyboards are gone, the bluetooth receiver is kaput, the internal wifi receiver is spoilt (so I am using a wifi card inserted to the PCI bus), the batteries are dead (no more in production), and the direct receiver for the Network Cable is spoilt. The funny thing is that after a year not being able to connect to the internet from my my lap top in my home (because I don't have a wireless router) I remembered I had this external ethernet PCI card which had that network cable receiver. My old lap top before this one, had no network cable receiver and I have to purchase this external ethernet PCI card in Australia. So I ran up to my room, rummaged through my old box and found it! This really made my day. Now I can go online in my home without a wireless router!Amazing stuff... was sharing my excitement this story over MSN Messenger to a friend and he said I was so 'sot' or silly. Little things really make me happy. High time today anyways as I was not in a good mood today. Feel sick actually.

Anyway, I have thought alot of what lap top to get and after being a loyal user of Acer notebooks, I shall make my switch to the Dell XPS lap top. Wanted to get the one with the gaming specs but alas, pulling myself out of dream land and putting myself into the right frame of mine, I decided to go with what a lap top should be for me now at this point of time in my life. Lightweight and good performance.Wanted to get the XPS1530, and was reminded by my friend that will not be any different from my current lap top. It will still be heavy. So, I am settling for the XPS1330, with a processor speed upgrade and a graphic card upgrade. I must at least be able to play the games I wanna play on this new machine. Dell does not give option to upgrade the machine to a graphics card higher then the Nvidea GEForce 8400M for this model. Why...?? To solve the problem of playing my games (if I ever find the time to play) on a small screen, I will plug the new machine to a existing LCD screen. Sad thing was, Dell was having this RM300 rebate for purchases RM4000 above. I missed the boat! Darn... so today after contemplating, I will wait for another week to purchase this new machine. They have rebates every month or so. RM300... could buy me a spa package~~ Very kiasu but its not that I need the machine immediately.

Ok... I will continue part 2 of 'a little of everything'(ALOE) another day. Too long read for a blog entry if I post too many little things in one entry.

For now, good night!

Vedablu @ Tawau

2008-05-23T19:01:00.013+08:00

Vedablu Tawau: Sitting area Outside

I touched down in Tawau last Saturday at 10am and went straight to the outlet. Alot of things to be done, local tawau staff to train, food materials to prepare, etc. There was only 3 days to the opening. On Monday morning, my team from KK arrived.That night we worked till 1:30am. The next morning we woke up at 6am, to go to the outlet for the opening. Opening was at 10am and customers started pouring in. It was non-stop from there till 11:30pm. We went home at 12:30am. I just collapsed on my bed out of exhaustion but it was worth every effort we put in. There was alot of good feedback although there were few hiccups. I guess as all openings are and staff are new. However, the product I can proudly say speaks for itself.

Nanie (Vedablu Pastry Chef) & George (Vedablu Outlet Supervisor)

Vedablu Tawau: Inside sofa sitting area, minutes before opening

Vedablu Tawau: Counter area and display freezer, minutes before opening

Vedablu Tawau: Up and running...full house

The outlet I must say was tastefully done. It was more beautiful because of the flowers that were sent to our franchisee. I couldn't resist taking some photos of them.

Vedablu Menu with Tulips and Roses in the background

Lilies and Roses. There were two huge flower arrangements like this and many other flower arrangements.

Vedablu Signage at the Front

Lee (owner operator of Vedablu Tawau) briefing me on the layout plans of the Vedablu outlet few months back.

On 20th May 2008, Vedablu has officially now opened in Tawau. Although tiring but seeing passion turn into reality is always fulfilling. Vedablu is thankful to have good partners, friends and commited staff like George and Nanie(who is still there working round the clock in Tawau as part of our commitment to help our franchisee start on the right foot).

More stories and adventures to follow. For now, thank you for the support to those that came (even from KK) and customers who are loyal fans of Vedablu ice cream and products.

Cheers!!

Spreading East of Sabah - Part 2

2008-05-14T16:55:00.004+08:00

Opening a food and beverage outlet is no easy task.From the first drawings, to design & construction, ordering of cutleries and food equipments, food preparation training to serving training and opening doors to our customers. Alot of coordination is required between our staffs, suppliers, contractors, etc. The tawau outlet will be our sixth outlet and belongs to our first licensee/franchisee. The journey towards the opening 6th Vedablu Outlet has been an exciting one for me. Tiring but I know we have done well and delivered all we have promised. This being our first franchised outlet we work extra hard to ensure our partners will do as well and better still if they do better. There is no one side win in any successful business out there. It should always be a win win situation.

Vedablu Shop in Tawau, located along Jalan Chong Thien Vun, will have its soft opening on the 20th May 2008 (Tuesday). Those in Tawau please come and support us. In our KK outlets we have many Tawau customers, but now our Tawau customers can enjoy Vedablu in Tawau.

I will upload pictures of the opening and the outlet soon. In the mean time go to our official website to obtain more information on our products and promotions.

I will be in Tawau from the 17th to 22nd May 2008. See you there! ;)

Spreading East of Sabah

2008-04-23T02:22:00.005+08:00

The past few days and the next couple of days moving forward to the month of May has been hectic and will be even more hectic. If all goes as planned on May 2nd, 2008 our first licensee will have their soft launch of their Vedablu Shop in Tawau. The few of us are working hard now and am sure our efforts will pay off. The renovations are still on going but from the drawings and artist impression we approved, it looks really good.

Looking back, this month it will be 1 year and 6 months since our first outlet that opened in Palm Square, Kota Kinabalu. It has now come to five outlets and the new Tawau outlet. I will post an entry about the opening in Tawau in the week to come.

Zero Calorie Calorie Premium Ice Cream

2008-04-04T20:42:00.006+08:00

Now, who wouldn't want to induldge themselves in really good ice cream without having to worry about calories?

Standing behind our Ice Cream Display Counters sometimes, I always get this common question. "How come Vedablu doesn't make zero calorie ice cream?" "I'm diabetic, what can I take?".

Let me address these questions here. No. 1 Our tagline is "fresh and natural". No. 2 I could easily produce zero calorie ice cream and put it out in the market tomorrow but I prefer not to do it because we want to honour our No. 1 rule (fresh and natural).

How to make zero calorie ice cream? Easy, replace current cane sugar in ice cream with artificial sugars. Why do Vedablu 'stubbornly' do not do this? Simply because the artificial sugars currently available in the market are aspartame or sucralose. A good web link to the side effects of these artificial sweeteners can be found here.So there it is, on one hand we can have zero calorie product but risk all the side effects mentioned. I have got some views saying that, it is the consumer who decides about their health, if they want to take aspartame, just make the product they want and give it to them. However to me, it just doesn't seem right.

Nevertheless, that does not mean that I will stop at my quest in introducing Vedablu Ice Cream with Zero Calories. Just recently, doing some research, I found an interesting sugar alternative which is all natural. It comes from the leaves of the stevia rebaudiana plant. It is funny that I never heard about this natural sugar replacement until a friend of mine mentioned about it. Then I further heard that this plant was planted vastly in Indonesia. This natural sugar alternative which originates from Paraguay has been apparently used for centuries with no known side effects. Infact it even has some additional health benefits. Read about the company in Malaysia mass manufacturing stevia here. I was so excited that I decided to blog about it here. Although I am not diabetic or on a low carbs diet, I know how hard it is to resist something sweet sometimes.

Stevia plant-Wikipedia

I shall continue to do further research on Stevia and do some product developments using this natural sugar alternative. If using Stevia in its natural state does not affect the quality and tastes of our products, who knows? Soon we shall introduce to you a few new sugar free ice cream and sorbet flavours.

Goodbye 2007, Hello 2008!

2008-01-02T19:33:00.000+08:00

Finally, after the long festive seasons I can come back to my office and do some clearing up. Also to finally update this blog of which I swear to update more often. Work has been crazy, but of course our sales for the Month of December speaks for itself. I would like to thank all our Vedablu customers especially those loyal fans for the continued support. We certainly try our very best to bring you only the freshest and delicious tasting ice cream in town.

To all the wonderful and so hard working staff at Vedablu, thank you for your passion and commitment to grow with us.

There is so much to say if I reflect on 2007. In Business we have achieved so much. Since Vedablu begun with its first kiosk in October 2006, we have now grown to 5 outlets in 2007. 2007 also saw us joining all the events and festivals in Kota Kinabalu as part of our marketing and branding awareness campaign. As quoted by a few people "You are everywhere!" and "We thought of going to Vedablu but Vedablu came to us!". It was not easy, but we as a team at Vedablu, we achieved more then we ever dreamed of. In 2008 our aim is to continue keeping our customers happy by continually improving and increasing our product lines. If all goes well, you will see Vedablu at 1 Borneo by March 2008 and at the new KKIA terminal upon completion. Perhaps we will also spread our wings to Kuala Lumpur by the third quarter. 2008 will be an exciting year for us...and we are proud to say we are a SABAHAN based company. Go SABAH!

FAQ On Vedablu - Part 1

2007-11-21T18:08:00.000+08:00

Well since this blog is new, I haven't had people or customers asking me questions here but they often ask me personally or ask my outlet staff from time to time the questions below. Its been interesting to read about Vedablu Reviews also on other blogs. I honestly appreciate these reviews and comments.

Ice cream for me is just not ice cream but I think generally we Malaysians have not adopted the 'Ice Cream Culture' yet although I know some of you have =) Most of us though who enjoy ice cream will know the difference between industrial ice cream and premium or super premium ice cream. However for those who don't will immediately recognize the difference on their first taste. I will attempt to address or answer 2-3 of these questions in the simplest manner in every post I have on "FAQ on Vedablu".

Question 1: Is Vedablu imported ice cream brought in on Franchise?
No. Vedablu Premium Ice cream is manufactured in KK daily and sent to our 5 outlets on a daily basis. This way we can deliver to you only the freshest ice cream and not ice cream which are 6 months to 2 years old. We manufacture them in small batches at our factory with imported italian machines. Only italian machines can deliver low overrun (in lay man terms overrun is % of air) ice cream.

We developed the Vedablu brand ourselves (also which is being trademarked) and each outlet has the same concept of colours and design.

Question 2: Why so expensive if made locally?
At RM5.60 per scoop (100-120g) it would seem that we are expensive compared to other industrial ice cream. Examples of industrial ice cream are for those that sell at RM6.50-12.00 per litre in all supermarkets. Vedablu however is a premium ice cream. We do not use artificial flavours, colouring and preservatives. As an Example, our Strawberry ice cream is made with real strawberries imported from France. There is no colouring to make it look bright pink. So point number one, our cost of making our ice cream is higher because we use all natural ingredients and most of them are imported. Point number2, our ice cream is more solid then industrial ice cream. Of which industrial ice creams contain 80% - 120% overrun (percentage of air whipped into ice cream to create volume), ours stands at 25% to 35%. So you are actually consuming more solids as compared to air. Point number 3, although we are made locally all our machines are imported to manufacture you the type of quality you are getting. Our total investment of just one set of machine could easily buy you a semi detach house in KK. We have 3 sets of machines to maintain.

Given the 3 points above we are still not as expensive as compared to the imported premium ice creams available at our supermarkets. For one scoop of ice cream (100g) you pay half the price and still get fresh, creamy and all-natural premium ice cream. Can you ask for more then that?

An Achievement

2007-11-21T00:58:00.000+08:00

I never thought I would have figured out how to add elements and widgets on blogspot! It took me 3 hours to add the adverlets, weblog and Header display picture. I took the longest time to do some graphic editing on my header display picture. The picture was initially too large. Now its the right width but not really the right length. Not that I couldn't have picked a nother picture.

This picture is special because this was taken without my knowledge by my BF who stood perhaps 15feet away from me with his Nikon D200. It was the opening of our first premium ice cream kiosk and I did the scooping myself that day. He came to surprise me on the opening day. It was probably after 1/2 hour or roughly 50 shots before I realized he was there. We had a huge crowd that day of opening but he made my day.

The Serenity Prayer

2007-10-08T13:04:00.000+08:00

Its lunch time and I am sitting in my office. My other staff asked me to go along for lunch but today I don't really feel like eating. Instead for the pass 15 mins I have been writting down my next 6 months life action plan. When I finished I did a silent prayer to ask the Lord to give me strength to do all the things I have listed down. Probably if there is anyone reading this now, you would probably be wondering what is the big deal. Well, the story will unfold itself as I fill this blog with more of who I am. Anyway, I looked up and saw my coffee mug. There was a prayer painted on it and for once I felt that this prayer summed up all my emotions and all that I needed to get through the next 6 months and do what was needed for myself. I want to give credit to the creator of this prayer but the name wasn't painted on my coffee cup. I will paste his name here once I find out.

THE SERENITY PRAYER:

God, grant me the SERENITY

to accept the things I cannot change,

the COURAGE

to change the things I can,

and the WISDOM

to know the difference.

Why does this prayer mean so much to me at this time? There are alot of things which I cannot change right now but I know with patience and time things will get better.

My first entry - why blog?

2007-10-04T11:35:00.000+08:00

I wanted a separate blog from friendster, instead of re-doing my blog in friendster because a blog is like a closet, you need to get organized (otherwise you don't know whats to wear), I thought why not start a new blog? I have to confess and those of you reading this will see I am truly a newbie at blogging.

All my life, I have kept a diary /journal. Writting has always been a solace and has been very therapeudic for me. So, why not blog? This way, if any other persons come across my thoughts and writtings here and may want to drop a comment or share or discuss they are more then welcome to do so.

Was reading alot of blogging guides (I am really a newbie), and they mentioned that a blog must have a certain theme or catch. I have been thinking about my theme and can't think of any that is interesting enough. One thing that has been on my mind alot is that I am not happiest with my life right now (don't get me wrong, I know that I am trully blessed and am having a better life compared to millions of other people on this earth) and would like to change my life to how I always have dreamed it to be. Its just this feeling that know I can do better, and being 26 I don't think I have not much time to waste. It takes courage to go against alot of people to do what you want. Maybe for a start this blog's theme would be "My Journey" to achieving that. It may not be interesting at all, but this is the first step for doing something for myself.

Disclosure Policy

2007-08-01T00:38:00.000+08:00

This policy is valid from August 1, 2007

This blog is a personal blog written and edited by me. For questions about this blog, please contact elaine.gunting@gmail.com.

This blog accepts forms of cash advertising, sponsorship, paid insertions or other forms of compensation.

The compensation received will never influence the content, topics or posts made in this blog. All advertising is in the form of advertisements generated by a third party ad network. Those advertisements will be identified as paid advertisements.

The owner(s) of this blog is compensated to provide opinion on products, services, websites and various other topics. Even though the owner(s) of this blog receives compensation for our posts or advertisements, we always give our honest opinions, findings, beliefs, or experiences on those topics or products. The views and opinions expressed on this blog are purely the bloggers' own. Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer, provider or party in question.

This blog does contain content which might present a conflict of interest. This content will always be identified.

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Goodbye 2007, Hello 2008!

FAQ On Vedablu - Part 1

An Achievement

The Serenity Prayer

My first entry - why blog?

Disclosure Policy

New Flavour Peanut Ice Cream coming your way!