Inspiration (and quite a harsh post?)

I just finished watching The Biggest Loser on telly. Its pretty amazing, they've been in there for 5 weeks, and one guy lost 70 pounds (approx 30 kgs). That's .... amazing. Yes, they have personal trainers, they have people monitoring their food, etc. But... THEY do the work, THEY put in the effort, and THEY reap the rewards. The format of the show annoys me a little, but lets not get into that. The point I am trying to make here is this:

These are ordinary people. Doing extraordinary things. It filled me with such hope, and such inspiration to push myself further. Nothing is impossible really - I bet these people felt for the longest time that they will be obese for the rest of their lives. They all weighed more than 100kgs, some even more than 150kgs when they started the journey on the show. When you have to overcome such a huge mountain, its easy to get discouraged and think its impossible. It made me feel like my weight loss was chicken feet compared to what they were going through - I had Marie France to help me trim away the weight! Then again, I also had the determination and ambition to reach for my dreams, and luckily, I have been blessed enough to be where I am now.

I think we can all improve ourselves in any area of our lives if we really want to. I'm not just talking about physically here. I have come to believe that anyone who is of the mentality "I'm just like that." or, "I am XX years old now, you can't expect me to change my ways" is just taking the easy way out. Its not as hard as it seems, though old habits are tough to break. I guess what we can all learn from The Biggest Loser is that change just boils down to:

HOW MUCH YOU REALLY WANT IT.

I look back on the past year, and am amazed at how much I've changed as a person. Often we need a catalyst for this, and I learnt this lesson from someone very close to my heart. If you really want to change something in your life, the first and most important thing is:

1. BE HONEST WITH YOURSELF.

You are responsible for your own actions. Emotions are another issue - but how you handle your self, how you react to them, and how you decide you want to be - is all your own CHOICE. (Unless you have a medical condition of course, but that's another issue). You have to be honest with yourself, and realise this before you can change any flaw you have within yourself. Yes, if you're lazy, hot tempered, unkind, etc, its time to face up to it. Don't play victim and go, "I had issues growing up", or "Its not my fault, he/she/they make me this way". Yes some people have it harder than others, but at the end of the day, YOU ACTED THE WAY YOU DID and THAT'S WHY YOU ARE WHO YOU ARE.

2. WRITE DOWN THINGS YOU'D LIKE TO ACHIEVE/BE.

Want to lose weight? Write it down. You want to be more liked by your peers? Write it. Want to be rich? Or want to get along better with your parents. Whatever you want in life to be better, write it down. Then follow that with what you need to do to achieve that. NO EXCUSES like writing what is stopping you, because as of now, only thing stopping you from change, is yourself. For example:

a) I want to lose weight. ----> need to eat better: exercise more .

b) I want to improve my personality/character ----> This one is a little more tricky as you need to look within yourself and your flaws. Here's where the honesty bit comes in. For example, if your girlfriend has told you time and time again that you're unreasonable, there could be some truth in this. Look at yourself how you'd look at someone else. If there is anything there that is holding you back, write it on your list. Follow this with why you want the change - to be a better person, to make the world a better place, to satisfy your narcissism, remember whatever it is BE HONEST WITH YOURSELF.

3. CHANGE!

You can't expect results immediately. Remember that this is not a 'temporary' thing, and that you're changing your LIFE. This is who you are, you are improving yourself, and you want to be better. Take baby steps. If you're someone who has massive road-rage, the next time something bad on the road happens don't just snap, but remind yourself the reasons why you want to change that about yourself. Even if you forget, and succumb to being a swearing angry person behind the wheel, make it a point to look at that later, remind yourself why acting that way upsets you and the people around you, and why you'd like to change.

As to how you change, just tell yourself that nothing will be achieved from succumbing to your weaknesses. The contrary infact tends to be the case - situations are often worsened. So focus on what would be best for you in the long-term to achieve your goal(s). The more you think in this manner, the easier it gets.

I know it seems to be the case that things are easier said than done - and that is often true. But nothing will change otherwise, and whilst it may be *easier* per se to stay the same, life definitely wont be better. So as I said. It all boils down to, How Much You Want It.

Quick Update!

So whilst some of you may have seen me HERE:

I was actually, HERE:

And here are some behind the scenes shots of the FHM mag shoot (Out now, go get!) :) Enjoy!

Me sucking on a piece of ice cause I was thirsty - and didn't want drinking from a cup to spoil the makeup! Lol!

Bend it like Bikram

Lol. Ok quite lame lah my post title. ;) (ps. Bikram is a special sort of yoga..)

But yes, in case you guys don't already know, you'll be seeing me in pretty stretchy positions around Singapore and Malaysia ..

This photo was taken from www.trueyoga.com.sg. :)

Go check the classes out, try 0ne even, and I guarantee you'll love it. Warning though: don't bite off more than you can chew, because yoga can be pretty intense! :)) Start slow, and you'll be surprised how quickly you feel and see the effects!

I won't be able to go for yoga over the next three weeks tho. Cause I'm going to LONDON and PARIS! :D :D :D its going to be such blast, I've always wanted to go to Paris and how I finally will! And London to see Lucas my nephew (wait I think I've blogged about this already, but i'm just so excited that I can't help but keep raving on about it, sorry ah!). :)

Oh and to those who have replied to my post below, thank you.

Anyone knows anywhere good in Paris? ;) Let me know!

Would you "settle"?

This thought came to me as I was on my trip back to Singapore (from KL) as I was answering some interview questions...

Would you "settle" for someone?

If he or she was "good enough" but not "great"? If that person was "alright", but didn't blow your socks off? Would you wait enough long in a relationship and possibly waste both of your time, or hope that your love for him/her would grow and eventuate into what you always dreamt your lovelife would be?

Its possible to eventually fall in love with someone. Hell, I've been that person that someone 'eventually' fell in love with. Was I happy being in doubt? No. Did I trust him? No. But was I esentially happy...? .

...No.

The excuse that, "Hey, is alright. I could do alot worse.", is NOT GOOD ENOUGH. Sorry. If you could do alot worse, you could also do better. And deep down inside, you know that.

The fact is, if you're seriously with someone (we're talking about living together here), that person should know, and feel, that he or she is your world. And there should be no doubt. At. All.

Why do some people then choose to 'settle'?

Insecurity, the inability to be alone (strong factor), amongst many other reasons.

How would I approach it?

Well, I'm comfortable enough to be on my own now, than to be with someone for company's sake. I choose to have enough respect for a person than to choose to be with them just 'cause they're *there*. When I'm with someone, I want it to be because I *know* that he is someone that I would be proud to be with, that I can reflect with and upon, and whom I know is someone of calibre that... well, deserves me! Is that being narcisistic? No. I think its just a level of self assurance, and knowing one's worth.

Because if deep down inside I *know* I can do better, then deep down inside, I wouldn't be happy. We should always work towards obtaining the best that we can in life; be it being the best person we can be, being the best friend we can be, the best daughter, friend.. why should we not strive to be have the best partner we can have?

But then again - here's me playing Devil's advocate with myself again - maybe its easy for me to talk. I'm in a happy, fulfilling relationship. *heh!*. Paul's an amazing man, and I am truly lucky to have him. I actually can't imagine my life without him - and that's a sign of what I believe to be true love. Its not when you can imagine your future with that person - its when you can't imagine it without.

Maybe its because I feel every good soul in the world deserves to have and feel what I do; A partner that fulfills every essence of our being.

I will try to fix you

One of the most amazing songs ever written - absolutely selfless and sincere. I cry everytime I really 'feel' the song..

Hope you guys enjoy this. :)

Oh and, if you guys are wondering what i'm up to: I'm still in KL at the moment, just did a shoot for Shape magazine Malaysia, will be doing another shoot tomorrow for Clive magazine's 1st year anniversary edition. I came to KL a few weeks ago 'cause my Dad was home alone (my sisters and mum are in Spain for a fantabulous holiday; i didn't go cause I needed to work. :( ), and so I thought I'd keep him company. Its been nice just catching up with him, spending time with him - his health's doing alot better lately, he's eating well.

Will be back in Singapore soon for another press interview with the Berita Harian. Flying to London and Paris on the 9th of May, (yes will take lots and lots of pictures don't worry! ;)), will be going to visit my sisters and my nephew, I can't wait I'm so excited! Will be there for two weeks, back in KL for the month of June to begin shooting the movie!

*phew!*

Almost out of breath just typing all of that out! *laughs*

Ok. Picture Time! :)

I was here.....

For a James Bond themed party. This is Ho Fei Fei, my bestie.. and we were comparing, er, "packages"...
Us posing - Face-Off!

What happened next???

........

..........awwww. ;)

Miss you Fei, come back to Singapore soooooon! :D

FHM International's 100 Sexiest Women 2009

Hey Guys!

I've been nominated to be in FHM International's 100 Sexiest Women 2009, feel free to vote for me at http://www.fhm.com/girls/covergirls/andrea-fonseka. :)

Thanks lah! :)

Updates!!

Okay so last week was massively hectic, involving friends coming down from KL to visit, FHM's Top 100 GNDs, catching up with old friends. In Singapore at the moment, for some work, before I head back to KL to be with Daddy, who's home alone due to Mum being overseas.

My shoot for the next cover of FHM (wow its been like, two years since the last one!), is on the 6th of April, and I'm so excited! It'll be out on a very special issue, so watch out for it in the coming months!

AND. Just recieved confirmation that I will be working on a movie in Malaysia. I don't think its appropriate for me to talk about the details before the press conference, but lets just say it'll open nationwide, and will probably be released in Singapore as well. :D Its going to be fantastic to be working back home again, with people who are at the top of their game. AND it'll be in Malay, which will be a new experience for me. AND I'll be back home in KL which is always great for me.. :)~ (Mmmmm.. Nasi Lemak Antarabangsa, anyone? Heh.)

Will be keeping this post short, have an early morning tomorrow for an interview with MyPaper. So will sign off for now, and leave you with this really sweet song from Jason Mraz. Enjoy! :)



No prizes to guessing who this song goes out to. ;) I love romantic duets!!!

The best year yet

2009 has been really, really good so far. :)

I think I'm finally finding the perfect balance between work, play, love and life. Here's a quick update with that.

Work
Work has been great. My campaign with True Yoga will launch in a few months, the photoshoot was so much fun! I worked with Mr. Universe 2004 (go google!) and he's HUUUUGE! Like, literally! Also he's the new Terminator in Terminator Salvation. Am currently working on a few independent projects, short films which will be taken throughout the world on film festivals, and am looking forward to working more in KL. :)

Roland and I. He's HUGE!

Like, SERIOUSLY HUGE!!!

The man who taught me to bend over. Backwards.

Play
Just attended a friend's wedding in Perth recently. She got married to her first love, whom she met at the tender age of 16! They went out for a while before going their seperate ways, and a few years later, Voila! They met, realised they still loved each other, and got married! In the words of the Emcee that night (Mark Pieri, awesome job): Love is like a motorcycle. Sometimes you need to kick it twice to get it started. I've never been to a wedding in Oz before, and I have to say. Its VERY different from weddings in Asia. It was loud (in a very good way), there were loads of jokes, laughter and DRINKS. Man can they drink. My poor Asian liver couldn't keep up at all, and I knew it so I didn't even bother trying.

The New Mr. and Mrs. Potger.

Love
:) Am very happy. Paul's still as fantastic as ever, and everytime I visited Perth I found a fresh bouquet of my favourite flowers (pPink starburst lillies) on the table. He said the sweetest thing the other day: that he never knew he could be so happy with anyone, and that his life was complete with me in it. *Awwwww* (try not to gag).

And you wouldn't believe it >>>> HE BOUGHT ME A CAR. (okay so maybe I'm 'boosting'a little here *guffaw* but I'm just so happy with it I just HAD to share it with everyone!). See the thing is, I visit Paul pretty often here in Perth, when work permits. And because he knows I can't drive his manual car (with absolutely no power steering), he bought me a Honda Accord Euro. So I can use it everytime I came to Perth, and not be stuck at home while he's busy at work. :D

Life
Family is doing well. Mum and Dad are missing their children, which is why I'm flying back to KL for Mum's Birthday mid March! :) Cant wait to get home, and have lots of Mum's cooking. Dad's health is steady yet, knock on wood. Miss them both heaps lah, can't wait!!!

So there you have it! A v. brief update on things at the moment. As I am not at my laptop right now, I can't post any pics up, but they will be edited in with time. Meanwhile, take care, and I hope 2009 has been good so far for you guys too. :)

Mum, myself and Dad taken during Chinese New Year. Dad found a hat that I got in a goodie bag and decided it was perfect for gardening. Heh. Bless!

Super Big Long Post

Hurroes!

Okay so its been a while, I've been eating mandarin oranges and collecting angpows all week. This has honestly been one of the best CNYs ever, I only wish the entire family was back for it. Natasha Lena and Adeline were all overseas, so it was just Mum, Dad and lil' ol' me here in KL. Awesomely good nonetheless.

So I've got a few things to do in this blog. First Up!

Answering some Questions that you guys wrote in. Note: Sorry can't answer all of them in a go, we'll come it coming as I keep posting ya? ;)

So here goes!:

1.Back then, you won the pageant pre-marie france. But in your personal life, do people around you pay more attention to you, or suddenly take more interest in you just because your are hotter & slimmer now?

People definitely started paying me more attention when I started appearing on magazine covers and on TV. Often times I got calls from acquaintences who never used to want to catch up, and now they're all like, "Oh Andrea come to my place for dinner!". I go like, wha? I mean I appreciate it and all, but its kinda funny when people only want to get to know me better when I got a little famous.

2. Has being sexy and slim now made people unwittingly focused on your looks rather than your personality?

It surprises people who just get to know me that I'm a Law Graduate. Whats the big wow about? I don't get that. At Miss Universe '04, Miss Peru was a doctor. That's right. DOCTOR MISS PERU. None of us even blinked when she told us, (I just think that's awesome), and we all respected each other. People seem to think that just 'cause someone's good looking, they don't need to focus on other aspects of their lives, or don't want to. I think that's just wrong.

3. Do you get alot of unwanted stalker attention from guys when you are in Singapore or Malaysia? Being a pretty gal and all, do you get random men coming up to you wanting to be your friend? And if so, how do you differentiate the genuines ones?

Proposal to be a 'kept woman'? Check. Random hitting on me? Check. Stalker? Double check.(<<<--- that's why I don't like to post where I'll be eg. events etc, until the very last minute or unless necessary. Infact, I'll be changing my phone number soon.) Difference between them and genuine interest? Just the vibe I get from the person, you gradually begin to be able to tell. When I met Paul, he had no clue who I was, or what I did for a living. All he knew from a common friend was that I was a Law graduate, and that's how we started talking. He lacked all 'sleaze-vibes', which is why we got along so well. So maybe I'll pose this question to him and ask him how he did it. Lol! 4. About your cover shots etc, most are stunningly hot & sexy. How does your parents react to that, especially dad?

*Laughs*! Yes. Daddy doesn't approve of FHM shots, but has come to realise that the industry is as it is, and allows me to do what I need to do for work's sake. But he did shy away from watching Carrotcake Conversations though, simply cause he didn't want to see me act as a prostitute. Even though it was nothing like the real thing! Lol. He's cute. Mum understands more, but urges me to not do men's magazines anymore... so I told her that I will only do so if the shoot is something exciting that I want to do. So far FHM has been very good to my career, I pointed that out to her, and she can't help but agree so.

5. Has being beautiful been more a blesssing or a bane to you?

First up, I don't see myself as being stunningly beautiful like Michelle Chia or y'know, like Nadya Hutagalung. I'm answering these questions under the assumption that I am because of what you guys thinks, and also on how my life has changed post Marie France. Honestly speaking I look in the mirror and I see the same girl that looked back at me six years ago. Andrea. Same eyes, nose, mouth, large ears, goofy grin. Blessing or bane? well, I think its pretty even. I actually find it harder to meet more sincere people these days, and people always have an assumption about me (good or bad) based on what they read me as. But I always try to keep it as real as possible, so hopefully that shows.

(The above questions were sent in by Cheng Eu-Hahn. Thanks luv! Hope that answers it for ya.)

Will be getting to the others soon.

Now. On to the next topic,I attended a CNY dinner hosted by Mr. and Mrs. Sin (who own Rafflesia and Mandalay, they specialise in Pearls, Jades and Rubies). Beautiful event, flanked by heaps of supportive celebs such as Jimmy Choo, Ning Baizura and Anita Sarawak.

Mrs. Sin herself

So glam right. Lol. I have this really bad habit of late being really lazy to take pictures, but I made it a point to do so I can blog about it and show you guys. All together now *AWWWwwww*. ;)

I used RMK makeup for this event. They have a fantastic range of foundations which I find really really suits Asian skin. They have a counter at Isetan Scotts, I swear I am a new fan. Their make up base is really really good as well, and smells glorious! Just incase you guys would like to know, I'll let you in on what I used to create my look that night. Btw, it may look like I wasn't wearing alot of make up.. well, cause I wasn't! *laughs* I was going for a more 'natural' look since my dress was already so loud... but on hindsight I think I could've used more blusher. oh well. :) Live and learn. You can use this simple step-by-step for any big day really, or even a casual meeting.

1. Cleanse face, apply oil-free moisturiser and make up base.

2. Use a highlighter - I used RMK's highlighter in Coral. Apply only to cheekbones, undereyes and nose.

3. Apply foundation. One shade lighter around eyes, cheekbones and nose first, maybe along the bottom of your forehead a little. Any area you'd like to highlight basically.

4. Use one shade darker foundation along your jawline, top of forehead, temples and just below your cheekbones. Any extra areas that need a little more coverage and highlighting, (such as undereyes), use the Radiant Touch pen by YSL. I've blogged about this before, its a miracle worker!

5. Apply loose powder. Dust a lighter shade of blusher along the highest point of your cheekbones, with slightly darker shade from your temples down to your jaw. BLEND WELL otherwise you'd look really funny. I like YSL's blushers, they have a little glitter in them.

6. Apply *a little* bronzer all around your T-zone for healthy glow.

7. Use eye make up colour of your choice (again, RMK has a great line of eye colours), line lower and upper eyelids. I use MAC's waterproof pencil eyeliner, its really really good. And Shiseido's liquid pen eyeliner for the upper lid.

8. Curl lashes, use mascara (Dior Blackout is amazing), and use lipstick and gloss of your choice. I use Benetint lip and cheekstainer (LOVE IT! looks really natural and doesn't rub off!), with YSL's lip gloss pen with glitter in them. It isn't too sticky or shiny, but stays on well.

All done! :) A little tip: instead of using lipstick which tends to kiss off very easily, use a lipbalm, followed by a lip-liner to colour in your lips. The colour from lip-liners tend to last better.

Hope you girls found that helpful. :)

Alrighty then, I've got to get some sleep! Hope you all had a fantastic CNY!!

Andrea Bites Back *Meow!*

Okay am feeling particularly brave, and slightly politically incorrect at this time of the night (or should I say morning). So here goes.

Its a New Year (still, I feel, since we're in January yet), and I reckon for the past four years since winning Miss Malaysia Universe 2004, I've been pretty polite (read: quiet) regarding criticism/comments/questions thrown my way. So for all of you, who have faithfully been following my blog, lets set the record straight, shall we? ;)

1. I look like a Transvestite.
I actually take this as a compliment - there are ALOT of really HOT transvestites out there. ;) Seriously though, I think this comes about due to my frame, and the fact that sometimes when I have makeup on, my features may tend to look rather strong (masculine almost? I don't know). Anyhoo, it doesn't bother me at all. Infact, I was mistaken as one when I was in Phuket (albeit from the back). Funny story, my girlfriends and I were in a Ladyboy district area in Patong Beach, and I had to use the bathroom... and the bathroom caretaker lady who saw me walk in (so she only saw my back), tried to tell me that ladyboys had to use the Mens. Eeeek! I just went, "harh?!" as I turned around and she apologised when she heard my voice. Good thing I didn't have a sore throat, otherwise I'd really sound like a man! Heh!

2. I got my nose 'fixed'.
Er. NO. I think its cause pre-Marie France days I looked like I had a more bulbous nose....but that's cause I was, well, more bulbous everywhere else too. I lost weight everywhere when I went through the treatments, which includes my face as well.

3. I starve myself now.
Again, NO. Ask anyone who has worked with me, I still eat normally, and healthily - four meals a day (sometimes five): Breakfast, Lunch, Tea(4pm), Dinner (7pm) and sometimes supper. Full, hearty healthy meals with lots of fruit, veggies and protein. :D How do I maintain my figure? 1. everything in moderation, be it exercise, or food. 2. regular trips to Marie France.

4. Err. I can't seem to think of any other issues here. *laughs* - how uncontroversial is that?! Heh. Try also cannot. ;) If anyone has a question or a notion they'd like me to answer, here's your chance! You have one week, just email me the questions, and I'll answer them in my next post. Howzat? :) This should be interesting..

A very honest post.

You know, its tough once you get out of Uni. I never thought I'd say that btw. Lol.

See, in Uni, your life is somewhat planned for you. No matter what goes on, you know you have a purpose, you know you have something to *do*. When you leave Uni, its the weirdest feeling ever (especially if you don't dive into the area of study). Its a "now what?" feeling that washes over you. Fear grips you as you realise that the decisions you make today or tomorrow may affect the rest of your life.

That's how I'm feeling right now, really. Is this industry, as good as its been to me, something that I want to do for the rest of my life? Don't get me wrong, I love my job. I love everything about it. But the longevity of it is doubtful, the need to always be "hungry" for work is tiring. And I have so many other parts of my life that I could explore.

What do I do?

Do I continue what I'm doing because I've already started? Do I explore other means of making a living? Do I travel to see the world - after all we only have one life? Should I *shock horror gasp* practice law?

I don't know. I do know its never too late to change your mind about what you want to do in life. I have friends who live by that mantra, and have explored every part of employment as a means to experience new things and learn new skills.

All these questions plague me, at 4.14am, as I sit in my room in KL, before I fly back to Singapore tomorrow afternoon.

I suppose it all boils down to the question of: What makes me happy?

Its much harder to answer than you think.

Take a Bow

Babyface wrote this song for Madonna, and out of nowhere I started singing it in the bathroom. Lol. Its an amazing video, and awesome song.
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Anyhoo so on to other things - Christmas is coming!! *big big smile* I can't wait to get my holiday shopping done. :)

Have a few thing lined up this month, will be going home for about two weeks to be with Mum and Dad, will be coming back for the New Year Countdown on Ch 5. That's going to be fantastic fun, will be doing a little performance too! ;)

Hope to see you guys there! Thank you for reading, take care and have fun this holiday season!

FONSEKA... ANDREA FONSEKA.

Note: Sorry it took me so long to update, I've had to move, AGAIN! Am in temporary lodging at the moment at a friend's place on Orchard, will be moving to my very own pad in Bukit Timah come January. So yes the packing, between work and travel, has been crazy. Forgive!

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Okay so you guys know I was going to LA, I hinted very strongly why so. I went to interview the cast and director of the now already released movie Quantum of Solace. Yes, I spoke to Daniel Craig. :D

I stayed at the Four Seasons Hotel on Doheney Drive, its a quaint, cosy little place with a REALLY comfortable bed. Heh Heh. Had to take pretty pictures...

And Guess What!? They actually delivered a bottle of champagne, compliments of the junket! :D So sweet, it was like, *knock knock* Miss Fonseka? Compliments.

The view was fantastic as well,

But of course, the highlight of the trip? Well lets put it this way, I step out of my hotel room the next morning, guess what is on the door RIGHT NEXT TO MINE?

.........

His interview room!

Anyway. Woman's gotta work, so I carried on my duty to interview the cast, Director Marc Foster, Olga Kurylenko and Daniel Craig. Was incredibly floored by Olga, she was gorgeous, Marc was really down to earth and clearly very into what he does, and Daniel was charming, eloquent, engaging and .. does NOT potray that when he takes a picture, but oh well. I guess he was in character.

Hey Everyone! :)

Meet Director Michael Wang and Andrea Fonseka in an exclusive dialogue session after the preview screening of THE CARROT CAKE CONVERSATIONS.


Date: Monday, 10 November 2008
Time: 7pm Movie Screening
8.40pm Q&A Session

Venue: Cinema Europa, GV VivoCity
Ticket Price: $10
$8 (Student price, only for sale at GV VivoCity Box Office)


Synopsis
The Carrot Cake Conversations is the story of four strangers, who find themselves stranded in Singapore, two days before Christmas and how they find companionship over a plate of carrot cake and a conversation.

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The cinema is already half full, so be quick to get your tickets! :)

The Carrotcake Conversations!

Okay so the premiere is today, at Great World City Golden Village. I'm really nervous, and my mum's coming from KL just to be with me for support. Have a few of my closest friends attending, and I'm literally shaking as I write this - I HAVE NO IDEA HOW ITS GOING TO BE. Fingers crossed.

Have had some pretty good reviews on my part, am hoping that Singaporeans are open enough to accept this "arthouse" movie. Here's the trailer for those of you who missed it in an earlier post, go catch it in cinemas as of tomorrow! (Support local movies, lah. :) )

Feature in the Star, Malaysia

Much Thanks to Vivienne Pal, for her thorough research and open mind when conducting this interview. :)

Monday November 3, 2008
Beauty in full bloom
By VIVIENNE PAL


There’s not been much news about Miss Malaysia/Universe 2004 Andrea Fonseka since she became the latest Malaysian ambassador for Marie France, but the model-cum-actress has been busy.

ANDREA Fonseka greets me briskly at the front door, her head cocked to one side as she slips on a pretty pink earring. She looks fabulous in a simple print halter dress.
“Sorry for making you wait a bit,” she apologises as she ushers me from the porch into the spacious hall of her family home in Taman OUG, Kuala Lumpur.

Busy bee: Andrea Fonseka is Marie France ambassador, actress and model.

The 24-year-old was back in Malaysia for 10 days to celebrate her father’s 70th birthday and spend time with family.
“Would you like a drink? Coke Lite?” she offers over her shoulder.
I am quite floored, I confess. Andrea is hotter in person than in the Marie France print ads: tall, lean and long-limbed. Her long brown hair is perfectly in place, and her make-up is flawless, accentuating her sharp features; she laughs easily, showing off perfect white teeth and a hint of a dimple on her left cheek.

Well, if you don’t already know, the former Miss Malaysia/Universe has been riding high. She’s signed lucrative modelling contracts, appeared on the covers of several magazines, hosted a number of shows and starred in various dramas and commercials in Singapore – and, in the process, making her detractors and rumour mongers eat their words (there was talk that she’d “run away” because she could not face the embarrassment of being a large-sized beauty queen).
“I’d go further than Singapore if I really wanted to run away, wouldn’t I?” she sighs, rolling her eyes.

And the reason for being in Singapore?: To read Law at the National University of Singapore (NUS). "I got accepted to study in Perth and Britain, but Singapore offered the most cost-effective, value-for-money degree, especially after dad had put my sisters through higher education in Britain and Australia. I’ve been here ever since because a contract with the Singapore bursary for my education required me to work in Singapore for three years upon graduation,” she says.

In spite of being more recognised in Singapore than in Malaysia, Andrea is happy.
Although it may seem to the outsider that her life has been largely defined by her win in the beauty pageant in 2004 and her appointment as slimming treatment centre Marie France ambassador last year, Andrea’s move to the island city has also had a big impact on her life.
“Life has been busy and fun. I’ve finally graduated; I’m done with school. It’s been a comfortable life so far,” says the actress-model with a disarming grin as she folds her 1.76m frame into a more comfortable position on the couch.

Now that school’s out, she’s been living the dream and doing what she has always loved – showbiz.

“I’ve always wanted to act and sing,” she says, confessing that she studied Law to please her father, Malaysian Kennel Association (MKA) licensed specialist judge and former president Datuk Dr C.G.A. Fonseka.

Juggling school and being the face of Marie France has been hectic and Andrea’s portfolio includes – even back then – hosting ESPN’s Score Today, appearing as briefcase babe No.10 in the Deal or No Deal (Singapore) game show and co-hosting Live The Dream, a live TV singing contest with MTV VJ Utt and Michelle Chia. She has also been acting, starring initially in bit parts in Maggi & Me and Parental Guidance before landing major roles in Housemates, the Channel 5 drama En Bloc and her first feature film ever, The Carrot Cake Conversations which will be premiering on Thursday in Singapore.

All this, alongside having appeared on numerous covers, including FHM Singapore, and winning top spot in FHM Singapore’s 100 Sexiest Woman for 2007 and 2008, making her the first repeat winner. Incidentally, she was also chosen to be FHM Malaysia’s 100th issue covergirl.
“Woohoo! I’m so pleased that ‘Malaysia Boleh’ in Singapore!” she cheers. Amazing, though, that she was able to juggle both work and studies.

“Ha, ha, I remember how my mum was, like, ‘Andrea, are you sure you’re in school?’ But, yes, I’m a workaholic. I get it from dad, who always puts in 110% into everything he does,” she chuckles.

At the moment, Andrea is experiencing a mix of excitement and anxiety on her soon-to-be-released movie, directed by Michael Wang.

Andrea plays Ruth, a prostitute longing to be Singapore’s first blues singer, whose path converges with that of three strangers stranded in Singapore two days before Christmas.
“I did some research – spoke to friends who knew, and went to Geylang with Michael to speak to some of the ladies of the night. I’m very nervous because I’m not sure if I did a good job. Part of me hopes I didn’t so I can improve – if you do a good job from the start, then where’s the room for improvement, right?” she muses.

“Frankly, even if I ‘bombed’ in this movie, it’d be fine. I’ll just learn from my mistakes and do better next time,” she says.

Much as her success is due to her hard work, Andrea would be the first to admit that she would not be where she is today without Marie France. “When Marie France approached me to undergo their treatments, I saw it as a great opportunity to slim down the right way. Marie France is responsible for where I am now – absolutely! If they hadn’t given me the endorsement, then I wouldn’t be here. I’ve been very blessed. FHM Singapore put me on the cover, then Mediacorp ‘found’ me and the rest is history,” admits the Virgo.

If you’re curious, Andrea currently weighs about 59.5kg.

Flower power: Andrea and her mother, Datin Josephine Fonseka, share in her father Datuk Dr C.G.A. Fonseka’s passion – orchids.
“I have a contract with Marie France to maintain my weight at about 60kg – which I do effortlessly! I eat four square meals a day; I have breakfast, lunch, foursies (tea time) and dinner. I don’t take supper unless I really cannot tahan, and then I’ll cook Maggi mee – hey, if I’m gonna eat after 7pm, I might as well go all the way right?”
But like any other girl, Andrea has her vices, too.
“I have a serious Diet Coke addiction,” she admits. “I need to drink more water.”
“There was a time, not too long ago after I got out of a relationship when my weight plummeted to 57kg. I scared myself when I saw my ribs showing; I looked so unhealthy! I decided to do something about it, and now I eat as much as I want. I go back to Marie France once or twice a month and tell them to hit me with it,” she shares, referring to the slimming treatment.
Andrea says she doesn’t work out but has been toying with the idea of getting a gym membership.
“Maybe I’ll try getting a personal trainer or joining a gym by November. I want to be healthy,” she contemplates.
Meanwhile, what keeps her active is the constant walking from her apartment to Orchard Road – to meet friends, do her hair and nails, and go shopping.
The real thing
Even the most envious of women would be loath to hate Andrea. And why should they, when the woman has remained friendly despite all the cruel jibes thrown at her. That she is intelligent just makes her more alluring.
Articulate and eloquent, she responds quickly and confidently, segues effortlessly from one topic to another and answers questions as frankly as possible. She demurs, however, when I ask if she’s seeing anyone new.
“Well, Paul is someone special and very dear to me. I don’t want to comment on the status, things are still very new, but I’m very thankful that he’s come into my life.”
Family meal: Andrea (right) with her parents, sisters (Lena, left; Adeline, second from left; and Natasha; second from right), and nephew, Lucas.
Not willing to comment further on the matter, we quickly move on to an important aspect of showbiz – beauty.

“It’s very tiring to look beautiful,” she confesses. “It’s not really about vanity – even though I admit I’m vain and that vanity is necessary in this industry – but it’s about being presentable. I call it an occupational hazard.”

Surprisingly, Andrea’s daily beauty routine is practical and her choice of facial care products, not too taxing on the wallet.

“My mother taught me this: would my skin suffer so much from not using expensive products, if the day should come that I can no longer afford them? I’m sure the expensive stuff works, but I believe that if the affordable ones work as well, then why not use them?” she says, repeating the counsel of her mother Datin Josephine Fonseka, a former beauty queen.

“At the end of the day, it’s about the health of your skin. Still, different strokes for different folks,” she reflects, adding that she consumes healthy portions of vegetables and fruits. For an instant boost to particularly tired skin, however, Andrea recommends laser skin resurfacing – something she’s only done twice in the past two years.

As we speak, Andrea’s three-year-old nephew suddenly appears, bringing an instant smile to her face, and revealing her affectionate side. "I’m a very loving person – to a fault, according to my mum,” she quips, giving Lucas an affectionate cuddle.

Clearly, family is important to her. Following her father’s recent illness, Andrea had rejected a number of jobs to come home more often to be with them. Being home this time was particularly meaningful, especially since her three sisters Adeline, 35, Natasha, 27, and Lena, 26, are all back, too.

Adeline and Natasha, both human resource managers, currently reside in London while Lena, a pharmacist, has been living in Perth for the last four years. “I’m a daddy’s girl. I’m close to mum too, but in a different way. My mum had three other girls before me, so I guess I’m like the ‘son’ my dad never had. We talk about sports and movies and we have an unspoken respect for each other. I still hold my dad’s hand when we go out sometimes, and people give us dirty looks,” she sniggers. “Ultimately, my family has always been there for me; we’re very close-knit. When I’m home, I feel my life is richer.”

But she craves time on her own, too – to rest and reflect.
“Most of my ‘me’ time is late at night, like when I was up till 4am this morning just randomly surfing YouTube. I enjoy chilling on my own, like having my favourite whisky at my balcony.
“I question myself, having come this far, am I more at peace? Does my life feel fuller? I’ve made it a point to spend more time with my friends and family, and the fact that I have more than one true friend just shows me how blessed I am,” she reflects.
Having friends and family around her has kept her grounded; Andrea is happy enough being her own person despite the celebrity status.

“It’s nice to be recognised for being good-looking but, at the same time, the industry can make you feel like a product. But have I changed? No, I’m very much myself – I don’t pretend to be an angel or anything I am not,” she stresses.

Presently, the statuesque beauty is enjoying the relaxed pace before her schedule picks up again next year.

“I’ll be doing a bit of travelling, and then I’ve got a spectacular shoot with a magazine coming up soon. I’m also in the midst of negotiating a few gigs.”

And, just in case any local movie producers are reading, Andrea’s very open to the prospect of working in the local film industry.

“My Malay is very good, by the way,” she concludes with a giggle, as she heads to the dining table to join her family for a much-awaited lunch.

Tell me, did Venus blow your mind?

Can you imagine no love, pride, deep-fried chickenYour best friend always sticking up for you even when I know youre wrongCan you imagine no first dance, freeze dried romance five-hour phoneConversationThe best soy latte that you ever had . . . and me.

Had a really intense recording today, it was extremely highly stressul, so much so that when I got home, I had a nosebleed! Like, What The Hell?! *laughs* the last time I had a nosebleed was when I was like, 8 years old! Oh well. ;P

Anyhoooooooo I'm waiting to post up pics from my gig in LA recently, but I think I may need to wait for it to air on Ch5 first before I talk about it. So.. yes.. you'll all have to wait patiently for the unveiling of an amazing shot I took. ;) In the meantime, I'll treat you to a beautiful picture of Downtown LA's nighttime silhouette.

Take care an God bless to all of you, and don't worry - a much more thorough post of LA will be up very verrry soon. ;) Thank you for your messages, and continuous support. :)

Lightning Crashes

Okay so this isn't really a proper music video, you're supposed to just wait for it to load, and then enjoy it. Whilst you read my blog, of course. ;) Oh and incase you're wondering, its Lightning Crashes by LIVE. The same fellas that sang Turn My Head, and Dolphin's Cry. Which is another two amazing songs btw. Would love to see them live. Pun intended.

Feeling particularly mellow at the moment. I just came back from being with Daddy in KL, and he's feeling better (thank you, Lord). He just went for a checkup, and his blood-cholesterol level is 5.2! That's a healthy level (5.5 is normal). The pain in his chest has gone away, which is indicative of his heart healing well after the angioplasty he had earlier in the year. Still, the first year is extremely crucial, and he still has a few more checkups to go for. I'll try to be there for all of them, I told him. :)

I really am having an entirely new perspective on my priorities, am concentrating more on my family, and I really do believe that I am blessed. I'm going to share something very special with you guys.

My Por-Por (my mom's mom, that's what I called her. Hehe.. So cute right, can you imagine a little 6 year old me going, "POR-POR!!!!" whenever I came back from kindy? hehe) spent her last few years with my family. Being the youngest grandchild in the family, she doted on me alot... and I remember being very close to her, even when I was as little as 4 years old. She used to take me around town in a taxi whilst she ran her errands while mum and dad were at work, and I actually dragged her into a video arcade once, and during those days they were pretty rank, with lots of ciggie smoke, and druggies. Yeah. It was dark, and she held my hand and sat through one pac-man game with me, simply because I wanted to.

Anyway I digress. She was devastated when Kong-Kong (granddad) passed away, and became quite weak. Everything went pearshaped when mum had a minor accident and Por-Por hit her head on the front screen, and had to be admitted for about a week, I think.... I don't remember much, but I remember her getting weak, very quickly. And soon she stopped talking, and needed help walking. There was one day, I distinctively recall.

It was a bright afternoon, Por-Por had the guest room downstairs. She had finished her lunch, and tried to call for someone to help her get back to her room. I don't remember why but I was the only one there, and rushed to her side when I saw her try to get up on her own. I helped her slowly walk to her room, which must've took something like 10 minutes for her when it'd take a normal person about 8 seconds.. and halfway there she just turned and looked at me. With her deep, 73 year old eyes. (Or was she 78?)... She didn't say anything, but those eyes, rimmed with cholesterol buildup, and partially due to old age, they get a deep, dark blue almost... I think its due to the cornea just aging over black eyes giving it a misty look.

Por-Por looked at me, and I immediately knew, that she was thinking of all those times that she held my hand whilst I was walking, trying to run off somewhere, all those times she peeled grapes for me at the backseat of a cab (I didn't like grapeskin then. Heh!)... and now how fate and time has turned things around and I was there for her now. I just smiled at her and said, "Come on, Por."..And then I felt it. That I knew she would always watch over me from above.

Por-Por was an extremely pious lady, she was an extremely devout Catholic. I used to wake up for school at 6.30am when I was in Primary school, and I remember her already being up, saying the Rosary. Not just a Rosary, but the entire book, day by day prayer that came with it. That's hardcore. She did it about 5 times a day. I used to ask her why she prayed so much, and she said she prayed for us - the people she loved. And that so she would go to Heaven, and continue praying for us, and taking care of us from above.

I do believe my Por-Por is taking care of me, and that she's my Guardian Angel that keeps me safe. I can't help recalling that yellow afternoon when she looked at me, and everytime I do, I know that everything's going to be okay. That's the only explanation I have for how blessed my life has been thus far. I mean, I seriously have alot to be thankful for, things have always gone my way in ife and i've been extremely lucky. And now, I've given up a fair bit of work to make time to go home to be with my Dad, still doing some (like flying to L.A tomorrow morning to interview the cast of that certain movie). But inspite of doing less work, I'm being approached by BIGGER jobs. Its really great, and I thank God for the opportunities that come my way. And my Por. :)

Here's to my Por. (I don't have any photos on me, i'll have to scan them in!) She's an amazing lady, mother of 10 (yes, TEN) children, raised them singlehandedly whilst her husband worked the mines in Ipoh. She lived, and was loved, and is still missed dearly.

Everybody's changing.

Found this while I was surfing youtube. A little morbid, I know, but after the initial sympathy for the families in there, it struck me fast and hard that we really don't spend enough time appreciating the presence of loved ones.

Do we really have enough time on this earth to be obsessed with privial things? By trivial I mean anything that does not enrich our lives on a deeper level than just physical.

Love. We definitely don't love enough. And I don't mean just to your boyfriend/girlfriend or husband/wife fathers, mothers sisters, daughters, sons like in the video. I'm talking about friends, the busman, taxi drivers, the old auntie that serves you at McDonalds - how much love do you show them? In reference to this sort of love, I classify it as a sincere appreciation for the presence of the other person, and that you wish for nothing but happiness and general wellness towards him/her. With that comes respect, and politeness.

This isn't some bloody community service message by the way. Heh.

I'm serious; how often do we stress ourseleves out by being angry or aggitated by someone else's behaviour? A little too much, I reckon. You control your own actions, you can't say that someone else "made you do that". And you can stop the chain of destructive emotions/actions by not allowing another to affect you. Granted, its easier said than done, but its definitely worth a try.

Can you imagine if everyone woke up tomorrow, and was just...nice to one another? In that way, free-will is flawed as it allows us to have ill-will. That, in my opinion, is the crux of almost every problem involving human relations...just think of certain bloggers having cyber wars for example, and all that flaming. Just stop already, no one wins in an argument! ;P

Bottomline? Love your loved ones. Show them. You only have one life to live, and they can be gone tomorrow. Don't let a loved one go without them know just how much they mean to you. But don't stop there - spread the love, all around you. You'll be surprised; it doesn't actually run out... but quite the contrary. (Now I'm reminded of this song: *laughs!*)

REM's cover of WET WET WET's Love is All Around. Awesome right?!

With that note, I'd like to send big hugs to all of you reading this - thanks for dropping by. :) And to a certain someone out there who I was am absolute narky crazy woman to on the phone, I'm sorry. Life's too short to spend being like that, and I apologise. To my friends, I am sorry I've not spent enough time with you in the last two years, I hope the last two weeks made up for it? ;) And to the taxi driver who couldn't understand me, I'm sorry if I was aggitated because you got my destination wrong. Thanks to the lady in the lift who kept it open for me and... well. You get the picture. ;) Big love to all of you, and I hope you have a wonderful week. Remember - essentially, whether or not its a good or bad week - it is up to you. :) xoxoxo

Fav song of all time top 10

:)

Its actually a prety sad song, got hooked on it by this trailer of Grey's Anatomy. Personally GA was a love/hate show for me, cause although I loved watching it - it used to make me get really depressed! *laughs* Yes I get quite affected by what I watch on telly - I even used to get surgery nightmares after watching Nip Tuck. Like someone operating on me without my consent, eeek!

I had my 8 days shoot yesterday, and you guys should check it out. It'll be out soon, and its me with a very hunky man. You'll just have to lookout for the cover and see. ;)

After moving around non-stop for the last two months or so, Its so nice to be able to chill in my room, not have to rush anywhere, and do my laundry and clean up my room. It was only a few weeks ago that I unpacked all my things (well, there's still some boxes but... they're tucked away safely so its fine. ;P).

I love my new place, its got a big pool, gym, sauna, two tennis courts... and its a stone's throw away from Orchard! *JOY!*

I hope everyone else has had a good week, thanks for all your emails and kind wishes to my Dad. He's changed his diet dramatically over the last two months and he's feeling a little better. :) Take care and God Bless!

Ps. Carrotcake Conversations will be out on the 6th of Nov, not the 13th!! ;)