Tuesday, December 30, 2008

Parties!!!

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!



Par.ty -noun, a social gathering, as of invited guests at a private home, for conversation, refreshments, entertainment, etc..

If that is the definition of party, then these past few days has just been one hectic party fiesta. The dressing up, the travelling, the eating, is an extremely tiring experience, but well worth it! It all started on my brother's birthday celebration, 20th December 2008. It was his 21st. Got him an electronic guitar pedal that he wanted, being the guitar person that he is. Went to my Aunt's place, who gave the impression that it was just a family gathering for dinner. So, when midnight came, the cake came out and so did the drinks. Well, my cousin Rachel got smashed and entertained us with her ramblings and out-of-control dancing.
Then came Christmas, and my first stop was my friend Alfred's place for lunch. Ate all round catered indian food, and had some catching up with my church friends. Was convenient that the party was held just one block away from mine. Went there dressed smartly but in sandals. Someone commented that I looked like a foreign worker.
Then, for dinner, my family again headed to my Aunt's place. My cousin, terribly embarrased last time round, kept sober, which thoroughly disappointed us. But the Party had to go on. Had nice home made food, and delicious cheese dip made by other cousin Michelle. My family has more girls that guys, but I guess with all of them cooking delicious food and contributing to what goes in my stomach, I can't complain. Heck, I thourougly enjoy it.
Then my family organised their own Christmas dinner party for my siblings friends and mine, on 27th December 2008. So I decided to invite my whole social network. Apparently, many family members were jealous that I knew so many people. My family prides itself on being loners. I however, think that is just stupid. They think that I am strange for thinking otherwise, and I think they are strange for wanting to keep the people they know to a minimum. I wonder sometimes if I was adopted.
Anyway, it was a great party, though I had to move here and there asking people mostly if they wanted more drinks, and could not really get into a full blown converation without having to say hello to someone who just arrived, or goodbye to someone who just left. My strategy was to just mostly entertain the smallest group. Plan almost backfired when 2 groups of 2 appeared. But I think, despite the hitch, all went well. A friend of mine- Gerard, even had his birthday celebrated, to his surprise. At the end of the day, a glass broke, a chair broke, and a policeman visited us at 1:30am to tell us to keep the noise down. Signs of a good party. By the way, I know who broke the glass and chair. This will be discussed with my army buddies.
Anyway, the day after that, it was a trip to my uncles place for another Christmas dinner. The food was great with King Tiger Prawns among the spread. Champaigne was my poison for the evening and I must say, it tasted sweeeeet.
It may have been back to work on Monday, but come New Years, there will again be another party or 2. I'm sure of it. This is probably why I always look forward to the end of the year.
So guys, I just want to end thanking all of you that did come to my party, and thank you for the gifts. Here's wishing all of you a Merry Christmas and all the best in your New Year. Cheers!

Monday, December 15, 2008

I Survived!

First of all, I would like to take this opportunity to thank all those that wished me a Happy Birthday. Had a few sms'es, facebook wishes, etc. I must say that this Birthday I had the most wishes. Was a good Birthday. Being a weekday, only my cousin Rachel was free, and so we went Vivocity for lunch. Got high on wine and went home where my family organised a family birthday dinner. Was really very full with lunch as it was, and could not eat much, but was still contented. The wine had a part to play in that contented feeling. The next day went to work, where my colleagues were in an equally good mood. One bought donuts to share with everyone, and the other bought a Birthday cheesecake. The Birthday cake was also to celebrate another 2 colleagues who have their birthdays 2-3 days after mine. Then on Saturday, my company organised a company dinner at Swissotel Marketplace. It was a buffet dinner, and they had another birthday surprise there for me and the 2 colleagues. What an experience. And what a lot of food I ate that week and that Saturday. Was a bit worrying, considering that I had to do the Standard Chartered 10km Run on Sunday.
So yes, I completed the run officially at 1 hour 7 seconds. That's a picture of me with my 2 buds Gerard on my left, and Henry on his left. Checked the stats and was ranked top 17% for that 10km run. Am pretty proud of the fact that there was no vomiting, no near death experience, or loss of limb during that run. As crazy as this sounds, but I am actually considering doing the 21km next year. Or 21.1km to be exact. I know it sounds horrifying, but seeing so many people of all shapes and sizes that completed 21km, and 42 km, I am begining to think that it may not be that impossible to complete. There is hope.
Speaking of hope, looks like my polls aren't taking off with the flying enthusiasm I was hoping for. Apparently only 5 people voted. Very hard to draw a conclusion to the question- Can Man U still win the tittle? According to the results, it is a draw between yes they can, and, who gives a shit if they can. Maybe it was the subject matter. Will try again with hopefully a more talked about question, if I can think of one. Any suggestions?
Well, we are about a week away from Christmas, and I cannot wait. Actually I can wait, because the festive mood before Christmas is just swell. Everyone just seems happier. It's contagious. If it's a virus, and I'm sick, I don't want the cure. What a feeling... Well, this happy man is signing off, leaving you with Ynnib Nai to teach you wise meaning of words-
"Puritanism: The haunting fear that someone, somewhere may be happy."

Sunday, November 30, 2008

Almost There


wolverine
Originally uploaded by rc_altarservers
Wel, 1 more week to the Standard Chartered Run! Not a Run for Hope, Not a Run for Cover, Just Run. Run for Fun. I think I am ready. I am getting more pumped up as the day draws nearer. A lot of the sweat, the tears, and some blood, shed training for this event, and it all comes down to this coming Sunday, 7th of December (That was a bit exagerated). I said I was going to book my IPPT yesterday, but apparently, all the slots were filled, one week in advance, which normally does not happen. It was unexpected, but I am ok with that. Just decided to do some light running on my own.
Posters are all over the place. I saw one which shows a picture of an aged woman, and words written saying that after 3 kids, running 42km is nothing. Wonder if she really ran, or walked the 42km. And if she was under anaesthesia when delivering all 3.
I am in high spirits as well, because tomorrow is December, and I love December. The happiest time of the year. There will be parties, and there is just a good feeling about December, always. If one is feeling down, it won't take much for spirits to be lifted again. By the way, for those who are bored, here is someone's vlog that Azri sent me to watch- Christmas in Japan. Check it out.

And look at that picture from the upcoming 2009 movie: X-Men Origins- Wolverine! Coming out on May 1st. I am so psyched about that movie. And apparently, Gambit, the exploding card throwing cajun is going to be in the movie as well. Of course, we can anticipate more Marvel and comic book movies in 2009. As for DC comics, it will always be a movie about Superman or Batman. They cannot seem to be able to do any other movie about their other superheroes. Sad really.
Well, that is all from me. Will see about blogging again after I cross that finish line. So Happy upcoming Holidays everyone! And in line with World Aids Day which falls on December 1st, our wise Ynnib Nai has these words of wisdom to offer-
"Learn from your parents' mistakes: use birth control."


Monday, November 24, 2008

New Layout

It may be that your sole purpose in life is simply to serve as a warning to others.



Hello all. As you have noticed, I have a new blog layout. Decided to get rid of the old, and in with the new. Do take part in the polls I set up. It serves no purpose, but with so many types of voting thrills out there- Survivor, American Idol, Elections, etc, and with people always wanting to give their 2 cents worth of opinion, I decided to jump on that bandwagon and set one up to provide you all with a small bit of excitement in your lives. For those of you who have no interest or knowledge in the subject matter, don't worry. I did not forget you. There will always be an option which tells everyone that you have voted 'you do not give a shit'. So go ahead. Click on an option. I know you want to.
By the way, I have set a limit of 15 days for the voting to take place in my polls. After that, you may or may not feel regret for missing out. I suggest that you just go ahead and vote, and not have that feeling of regret creep in. It might kill you.
My life these past few days have been filled with the usual. Go work, come back and go for a run (not everyday of course), then do the necessary (eat and sleep).
I just hope come 7th December, when it is time for the Standchart Run, I am ready for it, and won't end up sitting on the floor along the half way mark crying for mummy. I am still wondering what possesed me to join, but I guess I should just get over it and leave it as another mystery of the universe. I am glad though that I have people asking to join me whenever I train. Without them, I probably would not be training and would not be as prepared for the run.
About 2 weeks more till the Standchart run, about 4 weeks till Christmas, then about a week after, till the new year. How time suddenly seems to be fast-forwarding.
Speaking of time, for those wondering what am I doing up at this hour, I am actually trying to adjust my body clock as I will be working the night shift next week. I think at this time, I am able to write good crapology. There is something about feeling sleepy and forcing yourself awake with doses of sugar and caffeine from coke, that really make for good inspirational writing. Well, that is is all for this post. I end here and present inspiring words from Ynnib Nai-
"Better to understand a little than to misunderstand a lot."

Thursday, November 13, 2008

Long Time a Coming

Yo Hoe's! It has been some time since my last entry. I got motivated to write something since someone asked for my blog address. So new reader(s), welcome to my blog, which from time to time, is updated as regularly as a polar bear hunting during hibernation. Lotsa big events coming up.
First major event would be the 10km Standard Chartered Run that I signed up for, and will be taking place on the 7th of December 2008. Been training these past few days, slowly increasing my distance. Infact, just today morning at ungodly 6.30am, I went for a 6km jog. What possesed me to do such a crazy ass thing? I am unsure. I have put it down to madness. How I wish someone would just convince me and say- "Madness? This is not madness. This Is Sparta!". But no, no such voice. Just the voice that keeps telling me this is pure, 100% grade A money back guarantee, Madness.
I guess part of the reason is that most of my friends have signed up as well. 2 of them are also taking part in the 10km, and another 2 are taking part in the 21km.
When I pose the same question to them- 'why did they sign up?', I get various answers. Some say it is for the shirt that they will give us to take home. I must say, that is some expensive shirt. I have to pay $45 and run 10km just to earn that shirt. Others say, it is for that sense of accomplishment. I pity those fools. Then again, now, I have join the company of fools. Life is strange that way.
Along the way, I have decided to re-try taking my army fitness test on the last Saturday of November, since my fitness has been going on the up. Want to take some money from the SAF. That is my dying wish.
Last big event coming up would be the company dinner that is going to be held at Swissotel. Coincidently, it is going to be held the day before the Standard Chart Run. So if you happen to see puke along the roadside, there is a high chance that it is mine.
Other than that, the last movie I watched was Tropic Thunder. It was one of those 'leave your brains at the door and watch' movie. It was hilarious. It was a little bit like Leslie Nielsons Naked Gun, but at the same time, done very differently, and clearly a Ben Stiller movie. It was unique, as I believe this is the 1st time that a movie is being shown about a director making a movie. And in it, Robert Downey Jr plays a dude, acting as a dude, disguised as another dude. Confused? Go watch it.
I still have not watched the latest James Bond movie. Looking for someone to drag along to it. Heard mostly good reviews. Hopefully, this weekend will get to catch it.
Well, I'll end here, and hopefully, I will get motivated some time in the near future to write such crap again. Till then, I suggest you watch this- Matrix running on Windows
For those affected by the financial crisis, Ynnib Nai has agreed to lend his pearls of wisdom to help in these troubled times- "The quickest way to double your money is to fold it in half and put it back in your pocket."

Tuesday, October 14, 2008

Thursday, August 28, 2008

Letter to the PM

Rise up, Prepare to act, The future is bleak in fact, Unite as one, Oh earthly son, Protect the ancient pact.

The following letter is from a reader after he'd heard how the Government will help Singaporeans deal with rising costs:

Dear Prime Minister,

We citizens of Singapore urge you to PLEASE MIND YOUR OWN BUSINESS.
We DO NOT NEED your help. Every time, you mention HELP, we have to run for cover!!!

Help the poor? Raise GST!
Help traffic flow? Up ERP!
Help passenger service? Up Bus fare/MRT fare!
Help us get taxi? Raise taxi fare!
Help us get good government? Raise Minister and Civil servants' salary!

Everytime YOU WANT TO HELP, we all PAY FOR IT!!!

THANK YOU THANK YOU...TOLONG LAH, please, we will HELP OURSELVES, no need your help liao.

We DARE NOT ask for help any more!!!

Sir, most honoured sir, I urge you NOT TO HELP Singapore INVEST also!
Everytime your wife invest, we all lose money! Kao liao, kam siah!
Just let us have a dose of bad governance, like recently the Mat Alamak case, like dat....so far, it is ok, your incompetence, we ACCEPT!

PLEASE DO NOT help us have better security! Wait we all kena PAY FOR
IT!!
I believe ALL SINGAPOREANS PREFER NOT TO HAVE CRUTCH MENTALITY!
I think it is ok lah, please just take your salary and enjoy life ok?

Thank you thank you,

I am very chin chai one, any how any how, no need to help oso can one.

--A Citizen

Monday, July 28, 2008

Final Chapter



Nothing much to write here as I woke up to a funny feeling in the pit of my stomach.
Tried to get ready for breakfast, but then soon realised I was getting diarhoea. Decided to skip that and join the rest of my holiday troupe for one last bit of shopping at Ben Thanh Market. Soon realised there was no way I was going there either. So gave Lionel some money to buy me some vietnamese coffee for my family.
When it was time to check out, I was feeling worse. Took a cab to the airport and my stomach was really out to kill me. To make matters worse, realised last minute that I did not have my immigration form. Left it in my bag which I have already checked in. Was told to fill out a new form. Was feeling really bad. I finally reached home and then proceeded to tell my family my adventurous tale. Then I started shivering and realised I was getting a fever. Headed off to bed, and managed to sleep off the fever. Definitly got it from the snake wine. Anyway, I am still recovering from the snake wine poisoning. Will be doing the night shift for work this week and have to head on down later. Really enjoyed this trip as the adventure and the company was good. Hope for more of such trips in the future.
Well everyone, hope you enjoyed the story of my Ho Chi Minh Adventure.
I recommend that you have one yourselves. I gotta go, and I shall end this story with a quote from good ol Ynnib Nai-
"Love may be blind, but marriage is a real eye-opener"

Chapter 3: Chu Chi Tunnels



Today we were off to the Chu Chi Tunnels. Vietnam was famous for these during the war. Cost us a mere US$5 for a half day tour. Yesterday's Mekong Delta tour only cost us US$9. The tours are really cheap.
Anyway, we were brought to a Wood-Art-Factory first. They showed us Vietnamese art done with painting or egg shells or mother-of-pearl shells. Bought some for my mom and we then proceeded to the tunnels. It is interesting to see the rice fields, and the rubber plantations, random horses and cows and goats and chickens along the road side. They even have people selling seafood like clams and crabs in buckets by the raodside. With every country becoming modernised, seeing such sites will soon be a thing you will just be able to see in picture albums. According to the guide, even Vietnam is trying to modernise by 2020.
We soon reached the tunnels. The guide brought us to watch a propaganda video about the American-Vietnam war and how the americans are bad people with death and destruction on their minds. We were then told to try out one of the original and unchanged tunnels. Being the only one with a flashlight inbuilt with my phone, I went ahead of my other friends. It was small, my thighs were hurting and soon, there was a fork in the tunnel. As I shone my flashlight around to see which tunnel to take, I was horrified by the sight of bats hanging on the top and the sides of one of the tunnels. A bat was flying around, but there was no way of turning back. So on my elbows and knees I went crawling hoping that the damn bat flying doesnt hit me in the head. I doubt such an experience would turn me into Batman. I made it out alive and well, and with no bat hanging off me. We were soon moving around to see the types of underground bunkers and rooms and the different types of traps made by the Vietnamese. They even sawed us bombs from fallen american tanks or planes to make small mines. A lot died while trying to saw off the bombs. Talk about desperate times. After all that, we were brought to a shooting range. We can buy bullets for about US$1 per bullet, depending on what gun we would like to fire. They had magnums, M16s and AK-47s to name a few. A minimum of 10 bullets had to be purchased. I bought my 10 bullets, and went for the AK-47. The re-coil is hard to control and my friend Eunice had a bit of a shock. Was really a great experience. We then headed to the War Remnants Museum where there were a lot of Gory Images.



There was no warning that there will be such images or any restriction for children.
We were soon hungry and went to Diamond Shopping Centre to eat at the food court there. Lionel and Lynn tried the local fast food there, while Eunice and me tried the local rice noodle with rice skin and pieces of beef and pork. Also got a side order of steamed fish. Was a prety interesting meal. We then headed to the Notre Damme Cathedral and the Post Office for more sightseeing.



Was really beautifull and had french architecture written all over it. After that, we tried to get to Chinatown. Did not have the address, so decided to head to a shopping centre which, as we were told by our hotel reception, should be near Chinatown. Took a taxi, but near the end, realised that this was no ordinary taxi. The meter was jumping fast and we had to use almost all our remaining 'Dong' currency to pay for the cab. To make matter worse, we were then told by the shopping mall staff that Chinatown was nowhere near. So with nothing else to do, we headed back. I had to ask the taxi driver to wait while I ran up to my hotel room to get my remaining 'Dong' currency, which I left in the hotel room as a precaution, to the taxi driver. After all that, we headed off to dinner, then to dream cones for some cheap Gelato Ice-Cream. After which, we went off to Highland Coffee, which is the equivalent to our Coffeebean or Starbucks. Soon we were back at the hotel. For one last 'taste' of Vietnam, I decided to try some snake wine. It was the most vile smelling thing ever. And the taste was no different. I washed that down with some Baileys :)

Chapter 2: Mekong Delta



Woke up early morning to drag my ass to the hotel reception to ask them to help us order a cake for my friend Lynn. Aparently, all cakes come in the same design and only one flavour. Decided that will have to do. Also asked that flowers be left in the room before we return from our Mekong Delta tour today. I then proceeded to have my free complimentary breakfast. After awhile, the rest came down for breafast and we all headed off to the bus that will bring us to the Mekong Delta. It was a long 2 hour plus journey, and we still needed to take a boat ride. The boat ride took forever. We finally reached the banks of the Mekong Delta and we got off to look at the coconut candy they made there. We then had lunch at the village, which was a simple maggee mee with some meat and vegetables. We then took a pony ride to one of the villages which had some people entertain us with traditional vietnamese music and song.



They served us honey which was made from a bee hive nearby, together with tea. The moment the tray of honey hit the table, the bees came. There was no way I was going to drink or even sit in the vicinity of a bunch of deadly honey bees. So off I went to carry a Phython. It was a strange feeling as the snake was moving itself across my neck and hand. At first I was a little nervous, but after awhile, I was actually starting to get the hang of having a snake around my shoulders. It was then time to head back. Reached the hotel at about 5pm, so was a bit tired. But had to get ready for dinner. From what I know, the reception called my friend and told her the flowers was coming up, so there went the surprise. Anyway, she thanked us, and we went to the Night Market near Ben Thanh Market for dinner. Ate at a seafood place and then went for some shopping there, again. While waiting for the gals to finish, I got an sms telling me that they went off for a pedicure. So I and Lionel headed back to the hotel 1st. Took the cake from reception, but realised there was no candles. One of the hotel staff actually hopped on his scooter and drove off to get some candles. So we actually managed to surprise Lynn with a small Birthday celebration. We ate the cake which was filled every which way with cream, and then headed off to a pub nearby to celebrate even more. We ate, drank local beer, played some game involving lotsa shouting and hand movement, and drank some Vodka Orange in a fish bowl. All in all, a good day. Next up, Chapter 3: Chu Chi Tunnels.

Chapter 1: I'm Back From Vietnam



Back from Ho Chi Minh City to be exact. Was tiring, fun, and adventurous. Accomadation wise, transport, food and tours were pretty cheap. Because my friend Lynn booked the flight way way way in advance, we flew on Tiger Airways on the cheap as well. Cheaper than how the normal budget flights are usually. Left my house at about 5:15am to share a cab with Lynn and Lionel to Budget Terminal. Met up with Lynn's friend Eunice over there and had Breakfast at Hans. We then caught our flight and were flying off to the unknown.

Day 1

Ben Thanh Market

We took a cab over to the hotel for US$10. We knew it was a little bit more expenive than usual, but thought that the queue for the taxi was a bit too long, so decided to cut the queue and go for it. Turns out that there was no queue in the 1st place. Just a bunch of people waiting outside the airport for people to arrive rather than waiting inside. Well, after about 20 minutes, we reached our hotel- Lac Vien Hotel. Lionel got off the cab gingerly after witnessing the cab driver weave through waves of motorcycles and traffic better than any F1 driver. Found our hotel inside a street alley. As we were early, we left our bags at reception and went for an early lunch. Local food there consists of some noodles, small pieces of chicken or beef, and lotsa soup. A separate bowl of vegetables with cut lime and chili is also served. Cost us less than S$1.50. Then went to Ben Thanh Market for some early shopping. Shopkeepers grabbing your hand and asking you to buy things as you try to bash your way through, was quite an experience. We then checked in the hotel and since the rooms were so cheap, my friend booked for us the VIP Suite. When Lionel and I walked in the room, we actually thought that the room was too big. At least 4 people could have stayed in that 1 room. Anyway, decided to do some sight seeing, and headed to the Imperial Palace.


Imperial Palace

Got a tour round the palace for free and was pretty interesting. But then it started to rain heavily. So we could not continue our planned city tour. Managed to get a taxi to a shopping centre for more shopping. Didn't actually get anything as there was hardly anything to get. Just 2 storeys of clothes that didn't seem very appealing. We then went to another shopping centre where we somehow lost Eunice and Eunice lost us. We then went hunting but was unsuccessful. So the plan was to sit down and wait for her to show up or contact us. After awhile, she showed up. Apparently, she had a nice dinner while we were hunting for her. As we were in a hunting mood, we then set out for our next hunt- KFC. Walking up and down the streets, is a bit of a skill. Aparently, the trick is to walk slowly as you cross the street to allow the motorcycles to weave around you. Then panic when you see a car or bus. So we hunted and hunted, and finally, arived at our destination. KFC chicken is served on a plate with a knife and fork over there, which is the difference between Singapore's KFC, and Vietnam's KFC. That was why we went there, to check out the differences. So mission accomplished, we set out back to the hotel to rest for awhile, then come out again to visit the night market. Things there seemed to be mostly aimed at the ladies, so I just got myself a belt and then waited at a nearby coffeeshop with Lionel till the ladies finished with their shopping. Got a cab, then went straight back to the Hotel to rest.
Lots done in a day. This is obviously going to be a long story. So this is why I'm breaking this into chapters. Next up: Chapter 2: Mekong Delta!

Monday, July 21, 2008

What Is The World Coming To?

Tomorrow I'm going on a cultural trip to Vietnam this time to learn a different culture and escape from the madness for awhile. You may be asking, what are you talking about?! Well, the world is going mad. Just take a look at this new report below. The humiliation......

Briton arrested for sex attacks on sheep



LONDON (Reuters) - A Briton has been arrested on suspicion of carrying out a series of sex attacks on sheep, London police said on Friday.

The 27-year-old man was held at his home in Dulwich, south London, on suspicion of bestiality with sheep. He was also wanted in connection of the possession of drugs with intent to supply.

Detectives said the arrest followed allegations made to them in May and June.

"Two male joggers said they had observed a man molesting the sheep in a field at Botany Bay Lane, Chislehurst," police said in a statement.

"A similar incident was reported to police by a stables employee in the area."

Media reports said the man had been barred from visiting farmland while officers carried out their investigation.

Monday, July 07, 2008

NAM

Short form for Vietnam. 15 more days to go to my Vietnam trip. July 15, is my sister's birthday by the way. Also the same day my cousins from England are flying down to holiday in Singapore and will be staying with our family. Will be staying for 2 weeks. Have no idea what that is going to be like. I also have no idea what to write today.
Hard to think after going through a rock wall climbing session. Went with my brother and friend Henry. I have been going for the past few sundays and on days when I push myself, such as like a few hours back, it is tiring and my arms are aching. For some reason, so are my legs. I could not even open a can of coke after that. Had to use my thumb. And typing all this is providing me another workout in itself, with all the pain throbbing through my forearms everytime I push a key. It really is a fun sport though.
Now I would really like to just head to bed and rest after such a work out. But I am trying to get my body used to staying up late at night. That's why I am now typing all this- to keep myself awake. So that this week, as I am working the night shift, I would not feel sleepy or worse- jetlag. Yup, jetlag without the jet. When you work shifts like I do, you'll know what I am talking about.
Just want to take a random pause in all this to wish Jasmine a Happy Belated Birthday! I know I have already sms'ed and wished on the actual day yesterday, but when I get such a random moment, it has to come out. So here it is! Ta-da!
Is it just me or is Singapore having a lot of festivals lately? I know now is the Food Festival. There is also the Garden Festival and Night Festival coming out this month according to the commercials. Lau Pa Sat had free coffee and buns from NTUC for the Food Festival. The rest of the food were normal dishes that I always have when I go to Lau Pa Sat for my meals. They now have a loud band playing to add to that great atmosphere of shouting to your friend whenever you want to tell them something. I guess when they planned it out, they realised that people should just shut up and eat their food.
I think I have said enough nonsense for today. Shall end here and try to keep awake doing something else. In the mean time, Ynnib Nai has some wise but grave words for us to take note of:-
"Never underestimate the power of stupid people in large groups."

Monday, June 16, 2008

Happy -Belated- Friday the 13th!

An abomination hath been done, The wheels of motion turned and spun, A quarter moon past, Time runneth fast, Our countdown already begun.

Hi there blog reading folks. I wonder how many of you thought twice of reading this post after seeing such a title. I like how whenever Friday the 13th comes around, there will always be someone who will say, "Ei, tomorrow/today is Friday the 13th you know?" Then, there will be a short silence. Followed by carrying on whatever it is you were doing. Haha... Life is funny that way.
Sunday was Fathers Day. We just went and brought our dad to a restaurant for Lunch and that was it. Very low key. It's strange. It's like a day that did not or should not exist. Not like mothers day. Wah, flowers ah, chocolates ah, wishing your mother, the hugs after that. I think it's because subconciously, we all are afraid our moms will fall into depression should we forget such a day. Fathers day, it's like we wish, give our gift, mission accomplished. Men are a simple species.
Speaking of countdown, I really cannot wait for my Vietnam trip that I will be going for in July. Will be leaving on 22nd July (Tuesday), and will be back on 25th July (Friday). Me and 3 others will be going to Ho Chi Minh City. Talk about a week of relaxation. And my friend managed to book for us a VIP suite at a hotel for about S$80 to S$90! How cool and cheap is that?! My friend wants to celebrate her birthday there, hence she came up with this trip. So there will definitly be partying there. Wooooohooooo!!! Cannot wait, cannot wait, cannot wait...!
Wel, as for my life, I have been in my job for 6 months and I have another 6 months before my contract ends. Then I will have to see what I want to do with my life. And so many movies I want to see this summer! And seriously, so little time and money to see them all. Zohan, Hulk, Never Back Down, Handcock, Wanted, Kung Fu Panda, etc. Argh....! And my house bill just came- $400 for electricity and water! Crap! $400 out my wallet so fast. Well, that's life.
So, I will end my scary blog here (scary for me anyway), and leave you with something for singaporeans to think about from the wise Ynnib Nai-
"What is a free gift? Aren't all gifts supposed to be free?"

Thursday, May 29, 2008

Monday, May 19, 2008

Happy Veeeesak Day!


Reclining Buddha
Originally uploaded by rc_altarservers
Hi all. It's been a long time since my last post since I took a break from blogging. It all started when my Godfather, Uncle Bonnie passed away. Was shocked and saddened as he looked like he would live on for at least another 20 years. He was pretty healthy considering that he hardly got sick or went to the doctors, and that he didn't have any illnesses bothering him. When he got admited to the hospital, it was his 1st time. And being his 1st time, we all thought he was going to fight whatever it was and come out of it. He was such a joker, even when we visited him in hospital. Well, we all know what happened next, but what really shocked everyone was that before we could get to his funeral on Friday, Thursday morning while I was at work, I got the call that my grandmother passed away in her sleep. Was tiring going from one wake to the other. So I took a little time off from blogging.
Life goes on and since then, I have continued my life as per normal, even taking a trip with my friends to Bangkok. The picture shows one of the tourist attractions we went to see there- The Reclining Buddha. Did a lot of shopping, took a sightseeing tour of the temples, bought pirated DVDs (Harrold and Kumar, Superhero Movie) and watched them at out hotel room, and of course, ate and ate whatever local food we could get our hands on. We climbed the Wat Arun Temple (Temple of Dawn) which was the fitness highlight of the day. Got cramped up on the way down steps that was so steep, I thought the monks must have been very tall with unusually longs legs which Ripley's should investigate. Everyone had to hold on to the railings, not for safety, but because it was almost impossible to climb it without the help of the railings, which shows you just how steep it was.
Speaking of climbing steps, has anyone climbed the steps at Mount Faber Park? I went there yesterday with my good friend Lia yesterday. There were so many steps, I was wondering if the person who made them had nothing better to do. A simple track up would have been sufficient. I found it totally unnecessary to have so many steps going up the hill. Anyway, that was only the beginning of the trekking trip, and that totally tired us out by the time we reached the top. Then, as we wanted to go to the Henderson Waves bridge, a bad sign misdirected us to the wrong path, making us go down some steps, which we had to go back up from once we realised we were going the wrong way. We finally decided to take another route and we reached the place. Had a magnificent view, and we continued to walk through the canopy tree top path, and some garden hub the government built. Did not know we had a Garden Hub. We seem to have a lot of hubs. Anyway, the whole thing according to the sign was 9+ Km. So felt damn healthy after that. Rewarded myself when I got home by eating potato chips my dad bought. I know I know. Shouldn't have done that. Anyway, I'm working on Vesak Day. Gotta go get ready soon. Hopefully, my next post won't be so long away again. But till then, I shall leave you with the long post and a saying from the ever Reclining Ynnib Nai-
"Just because one doesn't care, doesn't mean one doesn't understand."

Friday, April 18, 2008

The Contender Asia Finale

Last Saturday I went Indoor Stadium with Azri and Esmond (army buddies) to watch The Contender Asia Finale. Sponsored by Paypal, Azri managed to get a discount through them and so it was cheaper. I should love Paypal for that right? Wrong. Paypal screwed me. Partly Azri's fault for coming late (as usual). Before he arrived there was a long queue. By the time he arrived, the queue was shorteneed.
Because we bought through Paypal, we were supposed to get free shirts but by the time we reached there, they only had XL size left. When asked if that size is ok, Azri said yes because he is quite big size. To which my reply was- Do I look like I can fit into XL. To which the counter persons reply was- I can use it to bed. WTH?! Tried to change it at the counter selling the shirts, as I saw they had medium, but in the end I was told I could not exchange it. Why you may ask. Well, apparently because there is a Paypal logo on the sleeve which the normal shirts they are selling don't have. The screwing got worse when we took our seats and realised that there was a huge Paypal advertisement at the corner of the ring, with a cameraman standing next to it to add to that screwed feeling, blocking most of our view. So whenever the fighters were fighting on that side, we had to look up to the big screen to see what was going on. The constant nodding of our heads from looking down at the ring to looking up at the screen may have made some people think we were nodding with happiness.
Well anyway, The Finale fight between Yodsaenklai (not his real name) and John Wayne was really good. Totally overshadowed the other 4 - 5 fights they had before that, because it was really clear that Yodsaenklai and John Wayne were trully very skilled fighters. Yodsaenklai (from Thailand) at the age of 23 has already had over 200 fights while John Wayne (from Australia) at the age of 31 I believe (might be older, not too sure), had already 100 over fights to his name. Well won't tell you guys the ending, incase you want to catch it on tv.
Other than that, nothing much has been going on. By the way, came across this song from Jas blog: Almost Lover-(Radio Edit) from A Fine Frenzy. Really like it. You should listen to it. It gets to me everytime. Soooo, I will end here. Let's see if Ynnib Nai can provide us with something to take back with us this week-
"Originality is the art of concealing your sources."

Sunday, April 06, 2008

Latest Today: Mat Salamat Found!

Breaking News! Breaking News! Breaking News! Breaking News! Breaking News!

The Singapore Government must be heaving a huge sigh of relief now. They can now boast that they had the brains and the know how, of catching back the genius JI Leader who broke out of the Detention Centre. Not much has been released in the press as I guess the press want to know more information from the police first, but I found the article about the famous capture here.
So instead of me typing so much, you can just click the link above to read all about it.

Saturday, March 29, 2008

100th POST!!!

100th Post!!! Happy Easter Everyone!!! 100th Post!!!



Hi everyone! Yes, it is official. This is my 100th Post! For about 3 and a half freakin years I have been blogging apparently. Who knew?! I didn't know I can be this dedicated to writing crap. Haha.... I don't like to read novels but I like to write. There does not seem to be any connection is there? 100 posts of countless grammar mistakes, spelling mistakes, bad jokes and puns have led me to this day. The day I write this on my last day of the week of work, working the night shift and getting paid while I blog. Haha....
Anywho.... I would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone a belated Happy Easter! May the Easter Bunny smile upon you lovingly and ask you where he came from.
By the way, for those who don't already know, I have finally shifted to my new permanent home in Toa Payoh. Toa Payoh Lorong 2 to be exact. It is near Braddell mrt. I'll try to take pics but not everything has been set up yet. I'm planing to go shopping to buy some new things for myself and for the room. Ikea is gonna get a visit from me soon. When you are thinking of buying furniture for your room or place, that's when it hits you that you have grown up. Seriously!!!
And I have finally gotten myself a laptop. Was considering getting from Courts but Courts suck. Expensive and DIE DIE must have my home phone number which has not been set up at my place. I gave them my office address, my office number, house address, handphone number and my dads mobile number. And still they insist on getting my home phone number. Well, their loss is Sim Lims gain. Went to Sim Lim and found the exact model at a cheaper price. The hard disk space was less but I don't use much space anyway. Got a Acer Aspiron with 160GB Hard Disk, 2GB Ram and 2.2Ghz Processor, wifi, bluetooth and etc, at $1400. Courts had the same one with a 250GB Hard disk at $1800. So I saved $400. So proud of myself. Now I don't have to fight with my bro and sis over the computer.
Well, I will finish off my 100th post here, and before I go, of course I will ask Ynnib Nai to leave you guys something to hear now, and think about later-
"Bigamy: one wife too many. Monogamy: same thing"

Thursday, March 13, 2008

Bintan 2


Bintan
Originally uploaded by rc_altarservers

I have just came back from Bintan on Sunday. Was a very refreshing and sunburnt trip. Didn't actually do much, but was still worth it going there. It was a company trip and we stayed at Nirwana Gardens. Definitly run by a Singaporean. Payment there is done with Sing Dollars, unless you state otherwise. The service was good and the free breakfast buffet had everything. There were cooks making fresh pancakes, roti-prata, omelettes, and the buffet table was laid with porridge, noodles, curry, breads, croissants, donuts, blocks of cheddar cheese, different types of cereals, jelly, fruits, etc. Ate like a pig during breakfast. Especially since my company said lunch will not be paid for by the company. So like a kiasu Singaporean, had to make sure my stomach was more than full.
Had a bbq there, played some team-building games, and swam. Now burnt and red like a lobster and I am starting to molt like a snake. The beach is right next to the swimming pool area, as you can see from the picture attached, but there was a warning that there might be jellyfish in the waters no lifeguard. A red flag was up as well, saying that swimming will be at our own risk. The lunch which we were told would not be provided by the company, was paid for by my HR manager. Treated everyone to Korean food at the Villa. Went to Pasar Oleh Oleh for shopping but did not find anything of interest to buy, except for the full body massage which I went for. Cost $31. Was realy good. And my Ops manager treated us dinner at a kelong, which was a 30 minute drive from the villa. Nirwana Gardens itself had a kelong, but we decided it would be cheaper and nicer outside.
There is also a Factory Outlet store next to the Bintan Ferry Terminal, selling branded goods on the cheap. Would have been more worth it if had more money to go go-karting and play the other activities they have there like archery. Well, there's always a next time. Now, can't wait for my next trip to Thailand.
Haha..... Hello World! Here I come! Lol. Well, other than that, nothing exciting to report on my life. So now, I'll just leave you with Ynnib Nai's pearls of wisdom-
"Depression is merely anger without enthusiasm."

Wednesday, March 05, 2008

Bintan!

Hi all! Looks like I will be travelling around Asia this year, starting with my company trip to Bintan this Friday. I will be leaving this Friday afternoon straight after work, which means I'll be working for only half a day this Friday. Woohoo! I'll be back on Sunday, so if I don't reply my sms or answer my hp, you know why. Hoping that there will be go-karting there.
Then in May, friends are asking me to join them to Bangkok. Then, another former colleague of mine is asking I join in her birthday celebration, in Vietnam. Wow! Amazing Race Asia. Maybe I should join season 3. But no cable, don't know how to join, and don't know if there'll be season 3. Haha... Oh wells.
On another note, had another look at my up and coming new house. Lots have been done already. A few fans and lights installed. Sinks and shower heads installed. Paint is up. No cupboards or cabinets up though. I tink this month is a safe bet that we will be moving. My prediction of not moving in 1st week of March was right, but I can see everything coming together now. I think the space in the house could have been better utilised though, but have not seen the final touches with the furniture and all, so can't say much. Like the paint color in my room. Not so excited about the paint color in my brother or sisters room though, but hey, not my room. So I won't be complaining. Haha... My parents like the color in my brothers room though. Don't know why. The light green was nice, but one wall was painted a dark grey or green color. I think that spoilt it all. But if they like it, then good for them.
Well, I'll keep this short today, as I'm working now. Haha... So here's the anticipated words from Ynnib Nai-
"Don't use a big word where a diminutive one will suffice."

Thursday, February 07, 2008

Code Red Initiated

Wishing one and all a very Happy Chinese New Year! Happy Year of the Rat!

Well folks, it's the year of the Rat. I was born in 1984, so it's is considered as my year, together with other Year of the Rat born people. In the Zodiac, the rat is the 1st animal in the zodiac, and according to the story, won the zodiac animal race by being creative, smart, sneaky, and ingenious. Supposed to describe other Year of the Rat born people. Hey, it is up to you to believe in such 'horrorscopes'.
Anyway, what a way to start the Chinese New Year- by having Code Red (which I mentioned in my previous post) initiated.
Suddenly my dad initiated it. But I didn't need to SMS anyone for SOS help as it was agreed that we head on down to my aunts place to live. My mom is however living at her friends place, as there is not enough room. As it is, there are no cupboards for us to use, and everything is kept in our bags as there is no where else to keep anything. But we have a roof and a bed, so I guess there's nothing to complain about.
And we now have access to cable, so other than space problems, it's not that bad. Have been living there since Monday. How things change very suddenly.
So yeah, been working during the Chinese New Year week, during the night shift- 11pm to 8am. I do get 2 days off-in-lieu, so not that bad, especially since I don't celebrate Chinese New Year.
Very exciting start to the year indeed. Well, I'll sign off here, and leave you guys with some honourable mentions from Ynnib Nai-
"A journey of a thousand miles begins with a cash advance."

Sunday, January 27, 2008

Code Yellow

My New Cousin

Hi hi! A new post, a new family member. Meet my new cousin, born 18/1/2008. This is a picture I took of her when i visited the day after at the hospital. I could not get a better picture as she was sleeping during the whole time I was there. At that point of time, my uncle and aunt had not come up with a name for her, so I still do not know her name. But I did hear they were thinking of naming her Victoria. This is my Uncles' 9th child by the way.

Anyway, for those who are reading this, I want to tell you what is going on in my family, so that when I send out the SOS's, I would not have to explain so much. My situation now is a Code Yellow. On standby. Hopefully it does not become a Code Red situation. That is when I have to start sending out the SOS's via sms.

Anywho, as you all should know by now, my family sold their place, and could not get another suitable place. So my uncle lent us his place to live in at Upper Bukit Timah road as he had bought another place for himself. This is the same uncle with the 9 kids by the way. So yeah, he bought a new place for his ever growing family. So we are staying in his old place. Now with the new girl born (all his children are girls by the way, all 9 of em), he wants to sell his old place, which we are currently residing in, NOW. As he says he needs the extra funds with the new kid and all.

Now on our side, my family has already bought a new place at Toa Payoh, quite some time ago. Unfortunately, the whole house is being renovated, and we are currently awaiting for the HDB to approve the renovation works.

Unfortunately again, renovation approval is done in parts. For example, they will take a few days to approve the renovation of the kitchen windows, then another few days to approve the living room flooring, then the kitchen flooring, then the bathroom piping, etc. So the whole approval process is taking a heck of a long time to finish. This is just the approval stage, and not even the actual renovation stage yet. So we are being held back.

There is also a complicated bit about our grandma being thrown in, which is too complicated to say here. So now, we are at Code Yellow, not knowing if and when my uncle will tell us he found a buyer for the house, and want us to leave.

So when it hits Code Red, I will be sms'ing everyone asking if there is a room for me to stay in for a couple of weeks till the renovations are finished. So if you're reading this, I don't have to explain so much. My mom has a friend who has agreed to let her and my sister, to stay at her place, if it ever comes to Code Red. So that leaves my dad, me and my brother. I think my dad and my brother will be able to find someone to take them in also, but I'm not sure.

So this is my story of my life for the start of 2008. An exciting start. So guys, let's hope that Code Red is never initiated. Well, I'll end here and leave with my favourite philosopher, Ynnib Nai, to say some words-

"We have enough youth. How about a fountain of "Smart"?"

Monday, January 07, 2008

New Year 2008!

Happy New Year Everyone! Ok, I'm a bit behind, but i've been busy. Had a lot of celebrations with Birthdays and Christmas and New Years and visiting relatives as you all know. My dear cousin is down from Australia if you all don't know by now. Her sister got married about 3 weeks ago.
And now, suddenly, January is packed with activities as well. So moving with the flow of things into the new year. With the January Birthdays, now there are other things such as my newly married cousin going to South Africa with her husband to stay in his hometown there. My dear cousin is also going back to Australia this month along with her Birthday being held just days before. I was getting ready to shift to Toa Payoh this month, but we are still waiting for the HDB to approve certain renovations and if they take their time, the move could be postphoned to February. So I have no idea when I'm moving.
Just started my new job and still trying to get the hang of things. Everything seems fine, though I wish I could move around and not stay stuck to a chair for 8-9 hours. But I guess you can't have everything.
Looking back at 2007, despite it's ups and downs, I must say, overall, it was a good year. I ORD'ed, went on my 1st plane flight, went Australia, had a great time there and found a 'new' dear cousin, started work, made new friends from there, and grew closer to people I didn't even know was possible to grow closer to. Life I believe is what you make out of it. And if you want it to be great, then you just have to look at people and situations differently. If things go bad, start thinking of ways to turn it around or make the best of it. Life will always have it's days when the shit hits you and doesn't seem like it will stop hitting. But I guess, we just got to stand tall, take it head on, and wait it out as best we can.
Ok, wow, I can't believe I said all that. I should just leave the wise sayings to Ynnib Nai huh. So I'll end my 1st post of the year here, and Ynnib Nai, what do you have for us for the new year?-
"What's gone, and what's past help, should be past grief."