Kings

You know how I mentioned before that I will be taking a degree in psychology? Well, that was some time back, and I have yet to take it. Everytime I think I am ready to enroll, something comes up to throw me off. And I have to be honest, I am scared.
There are a lot of things that I am willing to try, eat, do at considerable risk.
But ask me to study, and I start to freak out. I am really afraid. Afraid that I will fail. Afraid that I will lose interest when it gets tough. Afraid that I will drop out. Afraid of failure and that it won't work out. You see, I have never really been good at studying, and exams. The moment the exams come around, I panic and everything just leaves my brain when I need it the most. And my past results from Kindergarten, to Primary, then Secondary school, and lastly Poly, have all been average or below average. Studies and me never seem to work out.
But the thing I am most afraid of, is losing the freedom that I have now. Without the studies, and just working, I have been able to get to a healthy lifestyle, and I have also been able to travel, a lot. Once I start on my degree, I will have to undertake a mugging lifestyle. Someone told me that all the 'freedom' can be gained back, once I finish studying. That I would need to make sacrifices to achieve that degree. But what a sacrifice. And I am really afraid of it.
If I work and study, then juggling both would be tiring. But I will still have income. If I quit my job and go into full time studies, I will be able to concentrate on school better, but I will be back to being next to broke in no time.
So many things to consider. So many options. So much that life has to offer, and so much that can happen from now till the next enrollment date, which is at year end, that could even throw up another unforseeable option.
Right now, I feel like I am in 'no mans land'. That I need to take my life in another direction, and soon. So much to think about and consider. The choices we take in life shows us what we are made of. What am I made of?

Samuel

Samuel- Under God's laws the rights of all people, rich and poor alike, were to be maintained.

Ruth

Well, I went to Kota Kinabalu 2 weeks back, and had a damn good experience and a darn good time. Me and 4 others set off on Sunday, and came back on Friday. The goal- Conquer Mount Kinabalu. To be honest, when the idea was suggested to climb it, I did not think it was a big deal, as I did not think it was a very famous mountain. So not famous = easy task? I was so wrong.
We set off for the climb on Monday. Eventhough I thought it should be an okay climb, I was training, and so, the 1st day climbing up about 6km was ok for me. But then again, we did take a lot of breaks. Practically every sheltered area (called 'Pondok'), we rested, and ate and drank. After hiking up for about 6km, we came to our lodge, where we would spend the night with dinner provided, before waking up to set off at 2.30am for the climb to the peak.
I realised it is warmer to just keep moving, but because of the picture moment opportunities, I had to endure the freezing cold winds to keep still and smile myself silly. But it was worth it in the end. The view was breathtaking, and to know you are standing on top a mountain, just gives you that feeling of achievement and accomplishment. A contented fuzzy feeling that just makes you feel good all round.
Little did I know that it was time for the hardest and most difficult challenge- getting down the mountain. Sure, seems easy in theory AND practical. I mean, would you prefer to climb up or down the stairs given the choice? Of course 99.9% of us would choose down (Just like dettol killing germs). It is a given. But going down the mountain was different. Of course coming down was faster, but by the time I reached the bottom, my knees were screaming in pain, cos the cartiledge in my knees could not take the pounding. It did not help that it rained when we were coming down, so there was the added fear that we would slip, fall, and roll to our deaths (or fear getting a broken ankle, which feels like death!). We waited for a van to take us back, and the pain grew and I found myself unable to kneel. Not that it was too painful, but my legs just refused to bend to that extent. I feared getting up the next day, as I was not sure if my legs would be able to move when I woke, but when I did wake up, my legs were actually feeling better.
Thank goodness we had no plans on that day. Just rest and relaxation. It was a Wednesday, and lo and behold, it was Movie day! Movies going for like RM$5! It was such a good deal, and being Singaporeans, we had to take advantage! So we watched 'GI Joe' and 'The Proposal'. 2 movies in a day. I'm not going into details of the movies, but I will just say that 'The Proposal' was funny, 'GI Joe' only had action to offer.
The next day we set off for White Water Rafting- level 3 and level 4. Water was muddy, but apart from that, it was fun. Was scary when the bus was trying to go up the mountain and stalled, and started moving backwards, but we arrived safely at our destination. Took an old train to the mountain which passed by villages and kampongs. It was an experience to see and take in all this.
So overall, I thoroughly enjoyed myself, and I actually hope to do more of this in future. But I have stopped exercising since the trip and need to get in shape again. Anyway, I shall sign off here with a sign, and a question- what do you think this means?

Judges

Take time to relax especially when you don't have time for it.

My last post had this comment left by a random reader who stumbled upon my blog. She said she loved reading my post, and will keep reading my blog often. I was glad when I read that comment, knowing that someone really enjoyed reading my blog, and would visit often. I felt inspired and thought that I would write as often as I can. That was about 4 months ago. By now, I think most people would have had already decided not to come back here, seeing that I have not updated for a long long time.
My first order of business, was to take down that annoying Michael Jackson tribute that I had put up. I have not a clue what possesed me to put that up. But it is gone now. If there are still people reading this, well, now you can read in peace.
I realised I have not had a day to myself for the last few weeks. Today, I originally had 2 appointments. But both were cancelled. Which I why I have actually found time to blog. Cos I have practically been home the whole day.
I have been keeping myself very busy lately. There are a few lifestyle changes I have had to make, cos of various reasons.
Of course a lot has happened within these past few weeks, and there a lot of things to come in the following weeks as well. So much so, I am not sure where to begin.
In summary, there was the Langkawi trip, Genting trip, Jasmine's Birthday party, The Liverpool saga (very heated debate going on now), and a visit to the aged living in Toa Payoh.
And in a weeks time, I will be flying off to Kota Kinabalu. I will be going hiking up the mountain and white water rafting. So I have been training to try to get in shape to survive that trip. I will fly off on National Day itself. I think it is best I start there. Starting with National Day. Singapore celebrates National Day on August 9th. And as we near it, there is a debate going on about Liverpool having played Singapore about a week ago. First off, let me just state that I am a Liverpool supporter. When I heard that Liverpool was coming to Singapore to play, I could not care less who they were going to play against. I just wanted to watch Liverpool play their beautiful game. So I paid a whopping $88 dollars to watch them show off their stuff. I enjoyed myself, having seen the players do what they came to do, and there was the Liverpool 'You'll never walk alone' song that was played that added more to that fun atmosphere. Now, there are people asking why the National Anthem was not played, and why the supporters did not cheer for Singapore. I think I already explained why I did not cheer for Singapore. I have the advantage of seeing Singapore play whenever. But to meet and see Liverpool play over here is not as common as seeing the National Team play. So darn right I cheered for Liverpool. After all, it was a Friendly. It should not be a big deal. No one boo'ed Singapore as I recall, so what is the big hoola about it?
And on why the National Anthem was not played, seeing as it was not an International match, or a serious competition, I don't think it should be a big deal that it was not played. Why was the Liverpool anthem played? To give us an experience of hearing that anthem being played on the stadium speakers, to us. I believe the organisers were just trying to be nice and give us that Liverpool atmosphere that we listen to and watch on tv, whenever there is a Premier League game or Champions League game on.
I feel that it is unfair to 'take appropriate action' as the FAS put it, against the promoters, who I believe, had Liverpool supporters best interest at heart. I'm sure it was not their intention to belittle the Singapore team. Did they belittle Singapore? Seeing as how it was just a friendly soccer match, I do not believe they did. If the Singapore team, or other Singaporeans, are unable to take all this in the name of fun, then perhaps next time if Liverpool visit again, we should just have an S-League selection playing against Liverpool. Or even a foreign selection, so that we Liverpool supporters can truely have our dream of participating in an Anfield like environment in peace.
Well, I think I have really trailed off in this topic. So I should just end here and let Ynnib Nai leave you with some wise words of wisdom-
"Sex is like nose picking. It's fine as long as you practice it yourself, but it's disgusting watching someone else doing it."

Joshua

If anyone did care that I did not wish April fools, here is your wish. And also I wish one and all a Good Friday, and in advance, a Happy Easter. I'm sure no one cares about an April Fools wish, but strangely, I still go ahead with it. It's not like a public holiday. In fact, it seems more like Tylers day. My close combat buddies will know who and what I am talking about.
Anyway, if you are wondering if I am going to be talking about someone named Joshua, I am actually not going to. So why title my post as such you ask? Well, I realised that every year, I have the usual cliche titles for my blog. For instance, around the begining of the year, it would read- Happy New Year, or around CNY, it would read- Happy Year of the... etc. Something most blogs would also have I guess. So I have decided to try something different. I will title my posts according to the books in the bible. So, the next book in order, is titled 'Joshua'. And I have nothing to write about anyone named Joshua, or even rhymes with 'Joshua' (I bet you are now thinking what rhymes with Joshua huh). So I will just proceed to blog about, what else- my mundane life. Yeah I know, I'm a strange guy.
What have I been doing recently? Well, I recently went cycling at Ubin, and visited Chek Jawa while I was there. I have been to Ubin a couple of times before, but up to this point, I have yet to have travelled to Chek Jawa. And it was my first time riding on one of those double seater bicycles. Why? Cos apparently, one of my colleagues does not know how to ride a bike. Yes, I went there with some of my colleagues. It was not a company trip. Some of my cool office buddies decided to go there for the fun of it, and so I went along. It rained, but we still managed to cover the whole length of the island. Bike rental being at $8 a whole day, we might as well make the best of it.
I read the New Paper today. Apparently, the reporter did an 'investigation' and 'found' the Geylang Serai market with cockroaches and rats. I can tell you right now how many coffeeshops and hawker centres are filled with cockroaches. Almost all! And I don't have to do any investigation. It has been like this for some time now. They make it seem so shocking, but cmon, who didn't know this? I see rats at Lau Pa Sat, an eating place that is apparently meant for tourists to come and eat at, to try and experience our food culture. The reporter than asks if people must die for us to change our mindset. You know what the sad answer is? The answer is a sad YES! You know what makes me even more sad? Once this incident blows over, people will get complacent again. The sad truth. The only thing that can fix this is for the government to step in and to make checks and punish those that do not keep to the proper hygene standards. If not, coffeeshops and hawker centres will continue with the same unhygenic ways even afer this incident.
Look at the SARS incident. Everyone was scared to come to the office and spread the flu virus. Now? People come to work with the flu, sneezing and coughing all over the place, probably thinking that they should do so cos it is 'only the flu'. So what if your germs spread right? So what if people around you catch it? Some even think they might score points with the boss, showing up sneezing around, showing that they still came to office sick to do work. Showing how hard working they are. How about showing how kind and considerate you are to others health and stay home?
Some may disagree with my statements, but hey, I pride my blog being an open place for discussion, so go ahead and disagree.
Well, tomorrow I have an Easter party to attend to at home. Will catch up with you guys another time. Anyway, here is a short poem about Easter-

"Little Easter, the comedienne bunny,
Tried too hard at being funny.
She juggled and she dropped the eggs,
They fell and smashed between her legs.

Poor Easter left the stage in shame
And thought that she might change her name.
But then that bunny read this ad,
"This Sunday we need help real bad."

So Easter Bunny kept her name
And through the years has gained much fame,
When Easter's Sunday comes each year.
She delivers eggs and we all cheer."

Deuteronomy

The rules of soccer are very simple, basically it is this: If it moves, kick it. If it doesn’t move, kick it until it does

Deuteronomy- A series of addresses.

A wonderful week for Liverpool fans, as Liverpool advanced to the next stage of the Champions League with a 4-0 thrashing of Real Madrid, and then proceeded to thrash their greatest english rival Manchester United 4-1. I don't want to be biased, but being a Liverpool fan, I have to. So here is a series of newspaper summaries of Liverpool's last 2 games-

Liverpool 4 Real Madrid 0 -

Following Liverpool's victory the Spanish newspapers were quick to heap praise on Rafa's Reds. A typical reaction came from Jose Samano in El Pais, who wrote: "Liverpool had everything that Real lacked: energy, purpose, aplomb, speed, shape and flair.

"They were facing a team reduced to rag dolls. It was an exercise in demolition, with an imperious Torres and Gerrard and (Xabi) Alonso and (Javier) Mascherano running the show."

Pictures of a tearful-looking Iker Casillas contrasted with shots of his jubilant international colleague Torres, and the Spanish champions were variously dismissed as "pathetic", "lamentable" and "provincial".

The English press were equally gushing in praise of Liverpool's win with The Times declaring it "a result that will resonate through Europe and go down in the modern history of both clubs".

The Daily Mail said Liverpool simply "pulverised" Real. "There is no other word for it," wrote columnist Martin Samuel.

"Fittingly for a team nick-named The Meringues, Real Madrid were splattered and dispersed over a wide area of Anfield in the manner of an airy fairy dessert.

"One that has been run over by a steamroller. Then another one then. Then a herd of rampaging elephants. Driving more steamrollers."

The Independent added: "This was Liverpool playing like European royalty, delivering a four-goal cuffing to Real Madrid, their biggest defeat in the Champions League.

"This was European football's most successful club humiliated, eliminated, eviscerated. A rout."

Liverpool 4 Manchester United 1 -

Liverpool stormed back into the Premier League title race with a stunning 4-1 victory at leaders Manchester United on Saturday.
Rafael Benitez's side, fresh from their midweek thrashing of Real Madrid in the Champions League, responded in remarkable fashion and left the champions reflecting on the most goals conceded on home turf in 17 years.- Xinhua Online

Liverpool yesterday thrashed arch-rivals Manchester United in an astonishing game.
It was the Merseysiders’ biggest win at Old Trafford for 76 years.

It represented Liverpool's biggest win at United since 1936.
Benitez played the mind games afterwards. When asked whether this set-back might undermine United’s title defence, he said: “Maybe it puts a question mark in United minds.”- Sunday Mirror

The Red Devils saw their lead at the top of the Premier League slashed to four points as Rafa Benitez’s men handed United their heaviest home defeat since 1992. It really doesn’t get much worse than this.
The Scousers were buzzing - and the 3,000 away fans went mental moments before the break as Patrice Evra clipped Steve Gerrard just inside the box and a spot-kick was awarded. VDS guessed the right way - but Gerrard scored, kissed the badge and celebrated in front of a shell-shocked Scoreboard End.

United struggled to even feign a late comeback as the fans streamed for the exits. The misery was complete in stoppage time The defence failed completely to deal with Reina's goal-kick and the ball fell for Andrea Dossena who drilled home a delish long-range lob. What a shambles.
A terrible result and performance for the fans on derby-day. This is up there with the 5-1 humbling at Maine Road as moments to forget in recent United history.- ManUtdWeb.

That last bit from a Manchester United site says it all. Anyway, that I believe will be enough for now. And Ynnib Nai has something to say about soccer-
"Soccer is simple, but it is difficult to play simple".

Numbers

Happy belated Friday the 13th and February 14th (aka Valentines Day). I shall not be biased and just celebrate the good days. The bad days deserve just as much attention, don't they? Speaking of bad days and numbers, can anyone tell me how to survive 2 weeks with a few measley dollars? I am going into the red.
Come March, my pay will come along with the GST credits and all wil be well again. The universe can start singing and the earth can resume it's beloved rotation. Till then, I will have to start thinking of cooking the maggi mee noodles in the pantry for lunch/dinner/brakfast to save money. I am digging for money. Literally, I am looking through old bank accounts that I still have but have not touched, due to the fact that those accounts do not have much to survive on, to see how much I can scrounge up to last these next 2 weeks. Every cent counts, and I am fast becoming a charity cause. My colleague practically insisted on buying me a drink, even though I told her that pantry water has all the vitamins and minerals I need, God bless her. I must have looked really pathetic when I turned down buying a can of drink to save money.
There are a lot of good movies that are out- Valkyrie, Defiance, and I heard Underworld: Rise of the Lycans was not that good, but I still want to catch it, being a fan of the 1st 2 Underworld movies. Guess I'll just have to wait for the vcds to come out.
Enough of the bad news for now. Updates on other matters- I am thinking of getting a degree in Psychology. Kaplan has told me I qualify, and a friend has suggested that I try James Cook University for the course. I am considering all factors, and if you have any info or suggestions on the course and good, accredited and recognised schools to go to, do let me know. I can only take a part-time course by the way. I need all the help and all the advice that you, my dear friends, can offer. I would like to hear it all and make a good informed decision. So just go ahead and tick my ear off with advice. I would welcome it with open arms and embrace it like my own son.
I do have some unconfirmed travel plans, but will not divulge yet, cos it's all tentative at the moment. Will also depend on wheather I take up the degree course this year. So a few uncertainties this year. Goals may need to be shifted and changed up a bit.
Other than that, another running countdown is on. This time it's the Adidas Sundown. I will be in a team of 4, including myself, and running a distance of 10.5km. All this takes place on the last Sunday of May. So it's training time once again. This time I wil be eating more to make sure I don't lose too much weight and protein. I now know a little better on how to eat and train better. All the best to me.
So i shall sign off here, and leave with some love advice from Ynnib Nai-
"Put your hand on a hot stove for a minute, and it seems like an hour. Sit with a pretty girl for an hour, and it seems like a minute. That's relativity."

Leviticus

Leviticus contains regulations for worship and religious ceremonies.
Speaking of which, Happy Chinese New Year to one and all. Yes, even to my non-chinese friends. Some might say I am a bit late, but a new year is still a new year. And in China, I am certain they are still on holiday. I actually attended a friend's reunion dinner. I was invited as I could not make it on the New Year dinner day on Monday. I still had to work during the Chinese New Year hols on Monday and Tuesday, and I worked during the afternoon shift which is from 2pm to 11pm. It was interesting. I learnt about some Chinese customs and traditions. Of course the reason why it is done, goes without saying. The reason can only be one of 2 outcomes, or both- Luck/Wealth. As much as they do all these, if they were questioned at the end of the year if they did receive the luck and wealth they desired by doing all these, most I'm sure would say no. Or not enough. But tradition is tradition, and some do it cos they put a fun spin on it. Like having the children stay up all night till new years day. It is like having an all night party. Throw in some booze and I would say a big hooray for tradition.
Did I mention the reunion dinner was vegetarian? Nothing to do with any Chinese custom. Just that my friends' family is vegetarian. The mock meat tasted like the real deal, and much better than the vegetarian places I eat at outside. It made me wonder, could the coffeeshops actually be serving us such mock meat, and not telling us? I mean, no one would know, and they would be earning even more. I have a conspiracy theory that some shops are doing it like this. Buggers!
Speaking of religious ceremonies, I gota go for another friends wedding tomorrow. I was picked to be one of the groomsman. At the end of the day, the big question on my mind is this: Do I have to give the couple ang pow money? I mean, just for this wedding, I had to buy my own pants, new shoes, and shirt. The only thing the groom paid for is the tie, and he helped rent our coat, which was $50. I had to buy new pants to match the coat because the coat is grey and I dont have grey pants. And the shirt color that he asked us to wear is yellow, which I also do not have. And finally, I had to get new shoes and not wear my torn shoes as, I say again, I am one of the groomsman. So after all I spent for his wedding, do I really really still gotta give ang pow money? I would do a poll on that, but I think it is too late, seeing as how the wedding is tomorrow. Maybe you guys can leave comments on what you think? Should I give, or let the groom face justice for this crime, and during such bad economic times I might add.
Speaking of money, I am broken, financially. That is not a typo. I am not broke. I am broken. Not sure how I am going to survive February. All my money was just splurged on that Lasik surgery. Everyone telling me how good I did to save up for it, but, let me tell you the sad truth. I apparently had not calculated everything that well. I am now in that stage where I am looking at the amount in the bank and calculating more than I ever have in life, even more than when I was in school during Math class, how every cent in my bank is going to be used. And going by how Math was never my strong subject, and how my calculations for Lasik also did not go well, it is going to be a nervy month. I think I should be able to scrap by though. I think... But let me tell you this as well, being broke for good eyesight is damn worth it! It is a whole new life. This is coming from someone who had to wear glasses since Primary school. Every now and then, I keep thinking I still got contacts on, and sometimes I put my hand up to my face to push my glasses up my nose, only to realise I'm not wearing any. It is a life changing experience. Just need to religiously administer those eye drops the doc gave me every now and then, for now. Other than that minor temporary inconvenience, it is great. I can see clearly now that the rain is gone.
Before I continue typing anymore nonsense, Ynnib Nai has informed me that he has actually made a new years resolution, and will share it with us-

"My New Year's Resolution: To tolerate fools more gladly, provided this does not encourage them to take up more of my time."

Exodus

Exodus means departure.
Soon, I will be going for Lasik treatment and will be departing from wearing corrective eyewear, such as glasses and contact lens. In other words, departing from being blind. It will be a departure that I will be most looking forward to.
When I told my mum, her 1st reaction was to ask me why. Why do this surgical procedure with risks that knows no bounds and untold perils. Well, apart from my understanding that the risks are low in this time and age, it is a risk I am willing to take to get back perfect vision, and have naturally good eyesight. It is an investment worth going into. I was always willing to spend on my eyes. Got 'transition like' lenses to protect my eyes from UV rays about 3 years ago. Always treasured it.
Plus, the problems with corrective eyewear such as glasses and contact lens knows no bounds as well. Everytime I jog, or do some form of physical sport, the glasses keep falling off, or the sweat wears out and erodes the frame. Wearing contact lens helps a bit, till you realise the trouble it takes to put the lens in your eye. God help us all should there be a speck of tiny dirt in your lens when you put it in your eye, the irritation that your eye incurs as well as the nice red color you get as a result, will definitly help you get out your 1st curse word of the day. Worse when you are trying to take it out, and locate it, and when it does not want to come out of your eye, and it seems stuck to your eyeball, clinging to what seems like it's dear life. Again irritation and redness of the eye sets in, as well as your second curse word of the day. It is also not very possible and feasible to swim wearing glasses or contact lens. Did I mention the savings I will be making from discontinuing buying contact lens, contact lens solution, and new glasses? Enough said.
Apart from that, I also do not wish to be a part of the glasses wearing family. My whole family wears glasses, or contact lens. Not something to be proud off. Someone needs to break the chain. And that very someone is going to be me. Starting Monday, 12th January 2009, which is the day of the surgery. If all goes well that is. But that will be a tale that I will tell after Monday. So till then, wish me all the best (= Ynnib Nai, have you any wise quotes for us?
'Perhaps our eyes need to be washed by tears once in awhile, so that we can see Life with a clearer view again.'

Genesis

Warning: Dates in calendar are closer than they appear

I consider today, Monday, 5th of January, as the official start of the new year. For the past 2 weeks, work has been an easy ride. This is because the company that I support, Agilent, went on a shutdown during the Christmas and New Year period. Like a 2 week holiday. January 2nd was greeted by my boss with an email with the heading that read 'Happy New Year 2009!'. The message inside informed us that we would not get much increment, and there would be no bonus. Eventhough I am aware of the financial turmoil that this planet is experiencing, I was shocked, because my company does not pay that highly, does not give out big increments every year from what I heard, and does not hand out AWS. So my initial thoughts was that since the company is already saving during normal times, that it would not lower the already low yearly increment. I did think that they might lower the amount paid in bonuses, but did not expect them to scrap it altogether. The email did mention an increment in our shift allowance, but it was an increment that I felt should have been in effect from day 1, as our allowance is not that high as well. So on the 5th of January, the shutdown would be over, and all Agilent employees will be back to work creating work for us to do by asking for 'this and thats'. Life it seems, is returning to normal, after all the festivities.
2008 was all round good. Made good friends, and most of it was spent just being carefree, enjoying the company of the people around me, and trying to be more passionate about life. Went on trips here and there. Did quite a bit of rock climbing which I thouroughly enjoyed, for the challenge it presented. And for the 1st time, ran and completed a distance of 10km, which to some, might not be that big a deal, but for someone who hates running, this was like conquering a mountain.
Now I begin 2009 anew. Unsure what the year has instore for me. I must say, I wish I did more. Wish that I did something that involves physically giving my time and effort into helping people, for whatever reason. That is the only thing that I feel empty about. That would be a far greater learning experience. Much more interesting. And there is that small challenge and great responsibility that I am looking for in my life. But I do not know where to start. I might not find it in 2009, but I hope that one day, that will be something I will be passionately involved in.
I have a new poll out. A wise person by the name of F.M. Knowles once said- 'He who breaks a resolution is a weakling; He who makes one is a fool'. Which prompted the poll I put out. This time the period of voting is a good 30 days. Will see if that helps with increasing the number of votes.
Speaking of wise people, Ynnib Nai is back again to end this post and provide us with a quote to think about for 2009-
'People are so worried about what they eat between Christmas and the New Year, but they really should be worried about what they eat between the New Year and Christmas.'

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!

I Survived!

Standard Chartered '08
Originally uploaded by rc_altarservers

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."

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."

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."

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."

Leading by Example

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

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.