Sporadic thought... 29/10/08 & 30/10/08

Sometimes we trod the path which we have taken before, hoping there is something different or an outcome we longed for, waiting for us at the end of the road. And often than none, we retraced our steps down the same old path, empty-handed and full of disappointments.

I think that's called life...

Perhaps it is this hope that keeps people going, striving for something that is long endeavored. Such sheer determination can be two-sided - Reaching for one's dream with such perseverance is definitely worth a praise or two. What happens if it is directed into something that you know is beyond your reach? Knowing when to press on the "Stop" button would be pivotal. 

It really depends on our own individual choices. If a line has to be drawn based on this context, I'm sure I'll not be on the other side with you, especially with the choice which I am able to make. 

If you could just understand what I mean...

Hym... I think it is a gift to love and be loved in return. As commented, the reason I hardly get that is because "coz you never really treat anyone that nicely". I think that's kind of true. I think I have long forgotten how it is like to love or even like someone beyond skin deep...

It's clearly the time of the month again...

Thanx to those who expressed concerns over me, especially to Jeremy.

Choices been made. Going to take a while.

I should focus on my exams!!!

Till then. 

i HAD ENOUGH OF EVERYTHING... BYE

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*S*T*A*R*S* ... 22/10/08

Saw these stars when I was lunching over at SDE. Seems to have dropped from a poster where there are many others. Tried to fix it back but clearly I failed. So, I decided to keep them for myself...

Had a day at IMRE today, doing my FYP. Was assigned to do some stress calculations but I think I did a terrible job as the readings are so off! Haiz... I guess I better turn to the Phd for help. ANyway, I realized that most of the people in R n D are foreigners, especially from China. Hym...

I have been trying to solve this online problem for a few days. Got so pissed with it that I emailed the Prof. Seems like the Prof had given us some wrong constants to calculate but after trying the new one, I SILL can't get it solved. For your infor, I did the question about 7 times already. I wanna solve it ASAP before the deadline on Thursday.

So much seems to be happening this week; just received a sms that my dental is this Thursday at 8am. Yup! 8am!

Got some casual remarks from someone I barely know for er... an hour? "Engineers are mostly cheeee na... Are you faking an accent?" Haha... Seems like I'm a good faker.

I'm seeing stars in my head already...
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Prima Tower, the revolving restaurant... 18/10/08

Yes, I can finally say that I have been to the revolving restaurant at Harbor Front. It really does live up to its name; the restaurant does revolves by itself!

Had quite a hectic day traveling between Aljunied and SPH. Oh! I have just collected the CD which I won from 91.3fm. Glad to have that settled. =)

Veron got a new phone too; very cool Japanese phone with a BIG screen! I thought the price was alittle too steep but there and again, mine was much more expensive! Haha... As long as she is happy, that's what matters. 
Decided to fetch my Mum back from work as I was along the way. Felt a little guilty to make her wait for sometime before  I managed to navigate myself there, through the peak hour jam.

Being the 二十四孝儿子， came at a little price as Veron and I little late for our dinner appointment but we tried our best. The traffic  was a real killer. ANyway, we finally reached out destination at 7:10pm. The restaurant is located on the 10th floor and the lift up to that floor reminded me of my visit to Taipei 101. 

We were clearly famished as we ordered our food the very first thing we sat down on our seats. As you would have gathered by now, we ordered quite a number of dishes - Peking Duck, Shredded scallops with fish and egg white aka Sai Pang Xie, Baby Gai Lan, "some" fish...

If there's only one word to describe the dishes, it would be "ambrosial". Everyone one of them was savory, just has they have advertised. My only comment, the Sai Pang Xie was too thick - too much crab meat and scallop. Haha... The heavenly concoction of scallop and crabmeat was simply irresistible...

And, Prima does offer exemplary service. We were treated like kings and queens! They surely deserved two thumbs-up for their display of professionalism and attention paid to customers' dining experience - poor Veron was feeling unwell and one of the staff took the initiative to offer her a cup of warm water. =)

Oh! As I was saying, due to Veron's sudden stomach upset, Mich and I had to finish most of the food that you see in the picture. Well, blessing in disguise!? Haha... It was way too much for the both of us! Still, we did a pretty good job in finishing most of them.

In summary, I had a wonderful dinner; perfect ambience, company and food. If you have a big pay check or simply wanna indulge in a moment of splurging, I would highly recommend Prima Tower, the revolving restaurant.

Once again, a million thanx to Michelle!!

After our much anticipated dinner, we went on for a show at Vivo. I love the show especially the suspense and all the actions packed within the 2 hours screening time. Guess it's going to be a while for now...

"Impromptu" Mj session at Veron's was er... "impromptu". I really wanna stop Mj-ing! Haha... I will try!
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ah! Had a chat with the folks as we were cruising down CTE to AMK in Mich's Blackie. Somehow, the topic felt a little close to my heart. I can't say I totally understand what's happening but I can definitely draw some connections here and there. Like I have mentioned, a lot of times it is "those" very people who start to tittle-tattle that get those involved individuals to start thinking "differently" to result in nothing but their relationships to be sour... Just look around and see how many have suffered as a result...

We will have different and opposing views when it comes to such issue.

For now, "vroom vroom"...

Just another day... 17/10/08

"Homosexuality isn't a threat to our society... but our intolerance is".

Was munching away on my Subway sandwich when this title caught my attention. It's an article in my school's regular publication. As I bury myself into the article, I can't help agreeing with what the author as put forth in his argument.

"In a society as people-scarce as we are, we cannot afford to alienate and drive away those who do not fit into our narrow definitions of 'normal'. Growing up in this cosmopolitan, multicultural country, that is one thing we should know by now. Diversity is often quoted as the marker of a healthy society..."

I like the way the author draws the attention to the fact that individuals who do not conform to social norms, should not be viewed as outcasts or to be simply ousted. I'm not sure if the numbers of gay men or women are increasing but one thing for sure, they are becoming more and more visible. Though some might seek solace just by being in the 'closet', they will soon have to make a decision somewhere down the line.

The author clearly views homosexuals as normal individuals and seek to gather advocates to share his sentiments too. I acknowledge it can be difficult for most people to embrace the notion of 'gays', given their socialization in terms of religion, values, cultures etc... A paradigm shift in perspective is all that is needed and it is no easy feat as said. Perhaps, it is this act of acceptance which differentiates us from the Westerners, whom seem to have mastered the act of exercising equal human rights.

"It is not as easy for them as it is for you..." If you ever understand what this means...

Anyway, had a long day in school. Most of all, had a totally unproductive project meeting after almost 5 hours of lecture and tutorial. What kind of discussion when not all members were present? And it seems like there is an unequal distribution of work among the members which some have chosen to suffer in silence; I was one of them. Guess I have a 500 word report to churn out before the end of this weekend. Not to mention I have an online assignment due this coming Sunday. In summary, tonnes of work to be done.

I have concluded that I am someone who needs constant excitement and has no affinity towards monotony, especially in terms of relationship. I reckon I need to be less critical with actions taken or words spoken or even in the meanings which I had inferred without due justification. It only serves as a brewing pot for potential friction and misunderstandings as I have gathered. In summary, I've learnt...

The quest continues...

Another long day ahead and it is just getting started...

??? ... 16/10/08

It never fails to amaze me how one is able to sit on the fence and wait for things to happen...

The ball must be in that person's court - he / she has nothing to lose by waiting...

Banana... 14/10/08

Bananas! They are perhaps one of the few fruits that I eat regularly. Thanx to the braces, I have forsaken apples and any others that might damage the metal stuff in my mouth.

Think I am getting really stressed up...

My hair is kind of long and I have no idea where to cut. Botak seems to be a good choice. Once and for all...

I'm clearly bored... 13/10/08

You are The Emperor

Stability, power, protection, realization; a great person.

The Emperor is the great authority figure of the Tarot, so it represents
fathers, father-figures and employers. There is a lot of aggression and violence
too.

The Emperor naturally follows the Empress. Like an infant, he is filled with enthuiasm, energy, aggression. He is direct, guileless and all too often irresistible. Unfortunately, like a baby he can also be a tyrant. Impatient, demanding, controlling. In the best of circumstances, he signifies the leader that everyone wants to follow, sitting on a throne that indicates the solid foundation of an Empire he created, loves and rules with intelligence and enthusiasm. But that throne can also be a trap, a responsibility that has the Emperor feeling restless, bored and discontent.

What Tarot Card are You?
Take the Test to Find Out.

You are The Wheel of Fortune

Good fortune and happiness but sometimes a species of
intoxication with success

The Wheel of Fortune is all about big things, luck, change, fortune. Almost always good fortune. You are lucky in all things that you do and happy with the things that come to you. Be careful that success does not go to your head however. Sometimes luck can change.

What Tarot Card are You?
Take the Test to Find Out.

20 mins... 12/10/08

20 mins was all it took to travel from Veron's place to mine...

I was glad to have them over at my place earlier in the day. It was sporadic as usual but enjoyable. After all, James and Michelle have never been to my place. Prior to their arrival, I had a round of intro to my Mum as I showed her some of my friends' blogs to update her on the current dealings of my friends; the new-found love of some, plans for marriage etc...

Mj was sporadic as well. It was one of the fastest game ever. Somehow, this session was so much more enjoyable than before. Thanx!

And, I think I am beginning to understand Veron's family too! Appreciate the talk with her bro. Though it was nothing special but speaking to someone older and has taken the path before was definitely great. At least I can hear them out on some of my issues or concerns.

Haha... I've always told my friends how much I hated the idea of attending a wedding alone especially when the rest of the folks are are in pairs and couples. Er... I think I might just see that happening. So anyone free for grab as an accompany? =)

By the day, have I mentioned my love for driving in the night? I love the feeling of speeding down the road. Going at speeds well over #### is and will always be a thrill for me. Oops! Please do not report me to the authority... It's one of those moments where I can fully concentrate on driving and free my mind from all the worries.

ALright, that's all for now!

Gloomy days ahead... 11/10/08

Was reading the papers and it seems like the economy is going down in next few months. Hym.. was chatting with someone yesterday and she commented it will be an "interesting" time to graduate next year. I totally understand what she meant.

The quest continues...

Have a sudden craving for chocolate. SHall go get myself some dark chocolate and put my bottle of Hershey's choc syrup to good use.

Project meeting online. Hym... I think it will be unproductive for sure.

Exams round the corner! =(

-----------------/@

"I know that you believe that you understood what you think I said,
but I am not sure you realise that what you heard is not what i meant."

- Robert McCloskey



This close to losing it all. If you could just know what's the magnitude...

I've learnt how things will turn out if you make a conscious effort to keep discussions under calm waters.

Let's move on.

beyond words... 08/10/08

I'm disappointed with myself for barely making it for my recent Economics test. Utterly!

Finally managed to clear the initial training for my FYP. Seems like I have much more to clear. Least I got something cleared so I can plan my next course of action. Guess the next few weeks gonna be pretty packed.

Went for a recruitment talk and I can't help feeling the pressure. The burden just gets bigger and heavier. If only you can feel for me. I'm simply losing it... Seems like it is going to be a tough year ahead when I graduate especially with the recent near collapse of the american economy. The repercussions would definitely be anything but minor by then.

Oh! I'm officially holding just a job now. Had my last lesson with Jos earlier in the day. He was "nice" enough to on the fan after the thousand and one times which I had requested him to. Perhaps it was the last lesson which accounted for his sudden act of kindness but guess what, I was wronged! He was so persistent to get me to buy him a "farewell" gift which cost ~$14? It was none other than some trading card or something along the line. Well, I didn't give in to him for I know, this was pretty much the last chance for us to meet unless some colossal coincident brings us to meet on the street in future. Still, it had been a pleasure teaching him. After all, he or rather his Mum financed most of my...

So, with no income stream? I guess my only way out is to tighten my waist belt and be more thrifty. If I can do it in the past, I can definitely do it again. Or at least I try to for I have another compelling reason to now. Seems like I'm leaving much of my thoughts to the "fill-in-the-blanks".

Anyway, thanx to my friends for the dinner and accommodating my sudden disruptive behavior. Trust me, it doesn't come too often. I reckon it was just today after being dormant for a while.

Having written so much gloomy and dark feelings, I do find the little color, rainbow at the end of the day. I'm happy, elated, over the clouds, delighted, and most of all, genuinely glad. And perhaps above everything else, relieved. Every steps and actions taken are meant in a good fashion and clearly they are worth every single effort devoted. *beaming*

Do you come to a point where you feel the path in front of you breeds familiarity? To me, absolutely. Trodden paths shall never be taken again, especially when you have seen, witnessed and felt the pain that came along with it. Caution is what I will adopt from now and be careful with every single steps I take. It doesn't just concern me anymore, or that's what I used to think in the past.

If you're still reading this, I congratulated you once again; for enduring my twaddle yet again.

*deep breath* and *smile*

Kusu Day tour... 07/10/08

Yup! It has been almost 7 - 8 years since I last set foot on Kusu Island? My only collection was when I was very young, probably primary or younger?

Well, was really hesitant about skipping school to join my Mum but after hearing that she planned to go alone, I decided to give it a go. Of cause, not without some morale justification from some of my friend. 

Went for my only class for the day before my folks came to fetch me. Mum and I got off at Tiong Bahru MRT station while Dad went on for his work. It started to drizzle but by the time we reached Marina Bay, the weather was just fine. Seems like Marina is undergoing some extreme make-over. 

The sea ride out to Kusu Island was anything but enjoyable. Perhaps it was the bumpy ride that made me had this occasional urge to puke. Anyway, I made it there alive. Oh! For your infor, the ferry ticket cost $14 for an adult. I thought that was a bit steep. Hym...

Well, we were busy praying the moment we got to the Island of Tortoise...

Mum was saying she wanted to bring a camera which she had clearly forgotten but guess what?! I brought! Haha... It's really one of those rare chances where I have the opportunity to spend some quality time with my Mum. So, we went straight for some photo-taking.

Haha... "自拍" soon got the better of me as I got Mum to take this photo with me. I tried to post some of the collages but I can't seem to post them on here. I shall post them on picasa in the times to come.

We got back to mainland about 3pm and decided to make a trip to my granny's place. Had a wonderful dinner as usual. Simple dishes but absolutely delicious!

Got home only about 7 before starting to get started on my webcastING...

Oh! Lorraine, this is for you...

Hym... Was a little insulted by some remarks made. Well, I reckon I have some more work to be done when it comes to handling such. Honestly, I think I deserve better. *deep breath* and *smile*

Oh! I'm happy for my friend. She should know it well. It's great to see the turn of tides. It's breezy so enjoy the gust of wind while we all can. Cheers!

One long reflection... 05/10/08

Yes, I spent one whole day just to write a 800 word reflection. Thanx to Lorraine for vetting through my work.

Going to skip a couple of lessons tomorrow to accompany my Mum to Kusu Island. Er... Can't remember when was my last time... Got some catching up to do.

And to Veron, speedy recovery!

Time is running out!

Lab test day! ... 04/10/08

Woke up rather late today. Tried to wake up early to give much needed attention to my lab test revision  later in the evening but I think the zzZZ monster had reigned victorious once again. Still, I managed to finish what I have set out to before leaving for my tuition lesson.

Thank god I had the car to myself for today. If not, I would have been late again. Tuition lesson was quite a breeze. Pretty much had a chit-chat session with Jos. After all, I would be seeing him for one last time next week. ANyway, he's really rude with F*** , Bast**** becoming more and more like a regular for him. 

By the way, he's having his PSLE right now so I wish him the very best of luck. I reckon he should score about 250 and above. Shall keep you folks posted on his results when I have any updates (provided you are interested that is to day).

Hym... I'm going to be unemployed really soon. The feeling of not having a steady income no matter how minute that amount is, is definitely not a good one. Guess I should look into teaching secondary school maths in the Dec holidays.

Lab safety quiz would have been easy if I had devoted much more effort in revising it. I know my chances of passing (at leas 90%) is real slim. I should get ready to take the retest!

Impromptu MJ session was great. The games were quite enjoyable. =P

K! Enough of fun. I should really be more disciplined! Got to finish one reflection by this weekend, catch-up on econ's lecture & tutorial... In summary, I have a busy weekend ahead!

Hope the pain in my right knee goes away soon. It must have been the old injury since army's BMT days...

*broke*... 02/10/08

Ohhhhhhhhh...

I'm so broke now! Almost bought myself a pair of sunglasses that cost over $300...

Still, I'm damn broke after...

F1 pact... 02/10/08

Oh! Realized that another of my best pals from Swiss was also at the recent Singapore Grand Prix F1 race. We had a brief chat and promised to go for next year's together!

But before that, we agreed to go read up on F1 stuff from now till then. Perhaps consider putting on a Ferrari shirt or something too! Haha... We shall see if the pact works out then!

*Excited* Anyway, I saw this Ferrari miniature F1 car on sale. It costs $139! Whao!!! Folks, that'll be my Christmas present right!? *wink*

Random photos... 01/10/08

2 more lessons (Friday & Tuesday) to go before I am free from teaching Jos. That means I'm unemployed too!



SOme random photos for your viewing "pleasure".

Was walking down some watches shop along town and decided to check out some TAG Heuer watches. Whao! Average retail price just blew me away! Haha...

I'm officially a splurger. Certified!

$$$ ... 30/09/08

I'm a splurger...