What a Christmas Night!

Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle all the way!

Merry X'mas to all! Once again, the time of the year is here! For the past two years, it had been a Christmas Night over at my Cousie's place for gifts exchange etc but this year, we decided to make it a New Year Eve's celebration instead. Thus, I had the opportunity to spend time with my Sec Sch friends for some usual hangouts and gossip session!

I guess Steamboat has become an integral part of our celebration thus this year we had Korean Steamboat at this really isolated part of our island - West Coast.! Being 10 minutes away from NUS, I'd always being interested to check this place out but I am certain this frequent will be the only one and the last one! Honestly speaking, the food sucks!

If you are a frequent patroniser of Korean cuisine, having thinly-sliced meat is the catch of the cuisine. Yet, the restaurant serves really thick and fatty meat from pork to chicken to even the beef! 60% of the meat comes from the fatty portions of the animal I must say and those guys really love pork such that they ordered the different parts of the pork, from collar to belly and the meat itself! Gosh! The tea that they served was proclaimed by MH as talisman water i.e a burnt piece of paper immersed into the water. Absolutely CORRECT!

Anyway, after the dinner, we immediately bounced back to our usual routine, standing around discussing the next potential programme. This was a must-happened event every year. During the discussion, we'd then break into our own small conversations or completely diverge from the main discussion. However, this year, we finally had a breakthrough!!!!

I must applaud myself for coming up with such a great idea first then compliment CB and BY for altering the rules and introducing new ones along the way to enhance the idea. Yes, 3 cheers for us, the Dark Lim Choc Family.

So the 9 of us headed down to Vivo City and the game was to buy a pressie to exchange on the spot within the time limit of 20 minutes.

Rules:
1. Buy a gift between 15-20 bucks
2. Gathering in 20 mins time outside MAC on level 1
3. The 3rd and the last person and those who exceed the time limit will have a forfeit
4. No gifts from Candy Empire & Action City

On our bus journey to Vivo, we came up with a lot of funny ideas-like buying multiples of the same food, i.e 20 cans of root beer, 10 packets of potato chips, 10 pkts for crabstick for BBQ tmr, 10 cans of Campbell soup etc. It was really hilarious!!!!

And so, the game finally started at 2143 hours and ended @ 2203 hours! CB came in first, Me second, Debbie 3rd, followed by ZH, MH, KW, XH, BY then SQ. In the end, 4 of them had to undergo the forfeit, CB, Deb, BY and SQ respectively. CB got punished because he bought a gift from Candy Empire which was - DENIED! BY on the other hand bought a gift at 13.50 and he claimed it to be because of the 10% discount that was entitled to him upon paying @ the cashier!!

Thus, the spontaneous & enthusiastic Four stood right beside the Information Directory on Level 1 and performed a one-song X'mas Carol for the 5 of us! People who walked past took glances @ the 4 of them and XH, who wasn't in the group, still felt so embarrassed that he took a brown paper bag and stuck his head in it! Honestly, we had a hearty LAUGH out of that. But nothing beats MH's unexceptional and creative gift that costed hiim $20 exactly! Guess what it is? -- A PAIR OF SOCKS --

It was so hilarious!!!! Can you imagine buying a pair of socks that cost $20? He proclaimed that he had kept to BY's suggestion of buying a gift that has a story and could be related to X'mas yet this was one suggestion that none of us bothered to listen to or adhere to. :)) It was such a coincidence that BY got MH's gift and he was so enthusiastic about that gift and we started to brainstorm for ideas as to how to put that pair of $20 socks into use. From hanging it in his house on the night itself for Santa Claus to come in to drop his gift for BY with the assistance of Randolf to wearing it at night to keep him warm. The most hilarious idea was to wear the socks with his slippers to the BBQ tonight to tell everyone that his socks are more expensive than his slippers!!!! Wahahahaha.....

Finally, we broke off and headed off home at around 11plus to recharge and geer up for the BBQ tonight! I am pretty sure all of us dispersed and left with the same conclusion yesterday night- It was the best and coolest X'mas eve that we have spent in the past decade! :))

At festive nights like these, I can't help but draw a comparison between Stockholm, Europe and Singapore. If there were 101 things that I missed about Europe, Stockholm and all my exchange friends, there is definitely 1001 things that I love Singapore, my family, my friends and all the joy, laughter that embrace us every now and then! :))

Barcelona day3-19 June 2008

I realised I have yet to finish blogging on my Europe trip. To be exact, I have long finished blogging it. I just didn't post it. Don't ask me why.? My friends from NOC Sweden are coming back soon. 6 months ago, I underwent the same emotions as them - reluctance and fear. Welcome back, my FRIENDS! :))

Finally into the 3rd day in Barcelona.
Time for SHOPPING!
I headed to the Caixa Forum in the day,
Not to forget, Placa d'Espanya.
It is more of the commercial buildings, art galleries etc
Still, the view was pretty.
As long as the views attract me, I will go.
Barcelona is probably one of the places where I met quite a few random people on the streets
And they would gladly invite me to join them to tour Barcelona together.
I met this Italian boy outside the National Gallery and he asked if I want to visit the NG tgt?
If I didn't have a flight to catch at 7 that evening, I'd gladly join him. :)
Too bad, too sad.

Amazed? Taken with my camera on top of a car parking by the roadside! wahahaha...

After the eye-pleasing views, I headed to town for SHOPPING once again!
Barcelona is a good place to shop after London Honestly.
There's lots of varieties like Paris yet not as highly-priced.
Also, the infamous ZARA comes from SPAIN!! hehe.
I prefer Mango to Zara though.
Perhaps it's the seasons.
In Singapore, it's always ZARA for me.
However, when I was in Portugal and Spain, MANGO proved to have better catologues.
I spend 2-3 hours shopping, HRC. Checking out the LV stuff for AG etc.
Last but not least, I spend about an hour in front of Placa de Catalunya, sketching.

Placa de Catalunya. One of the best places to be in Barcelona for shopping!!

Casa Batllo under maintenance.

I guess none of you would know this talent of mine.
Wahaha. My head is getting BIG.
Nah, actually I didn't realise I can sketch quite well too.
I discovered while I was dreaming my afternoon in Corfu and decide to sketch the surroundings.
It has always been a dream of mine to be able to do sketches or paintings, huge ones of each city I go to.
However, it was never in my blood to be able to draw.
I will take a series of pictures of those sketches and show it to you guys some day.
Or if you ever come to my place, you will see the sketch of Eiffel Tower by ME :)

While I was sketching, this middle-aged guy just came along and stared at me sketching.
He told me he's an art teacher and commented on my sketch.

Him:"Do you learn art?"
Me:"Sorry but I don't. I just sketch for fun."
Him:"I think you drew pretty well despite the fact that you didn't have any professional training."
Me:"Oh thank you."
Him:"I am from Paris and I am going to visit the Barcelona Cathedral now. Do you wanna come along?"
Me: (silence). Paused. Hm, I don't think so. I am leaving Barcelona in 3 hours and I have to finish my sketch before I leave.
Him:"I think you should stop sketching. You are not going to be able to sketch it well anyway under this weather."
Me:"Oh you should get going. I am staying. Nice to meet you! See ya around in Paris maybe."

He walked away.
He was so random.
What has sketching got to do with the weather?

I headed back to the hostel, took my bags and leave for the BUS Station.
This time round, I discovered another fav. hangout place.
Arc de Triomf.
The Bonaparte family love arches and pillars for sure.
After stealing Victoria from Brandenburg Gate
They build another arch in Barcelona.
I suppose it's the creation of Joseph Bonaparte, Napoleon's Brother
He ruled Spain for a short stint when Napoleon triumph over Europe.



With me carrying my luggage by myself from city to city, I find it hard not for me to be toned up! :)
Paris Arc De Triomphe's replica, but not as lovely. :) That's why this area is also known as Arc de Triomphe on the Metro Map. :)

I love Barcelona!
I'd love to be back some day.
Paris, HERE I COME~~~

Click!

Yes, all I need is a click tomorrow at 1 pm to know how I do for my exams? To my surprise, I am actually quite excited about it yet there's a little element of fear. lol! Such contradicting emotions.

Remember years ago, Omma & I went to watch CLICK and we both had a really good laugh inside the theatre! Sometimes I missed those days when Omma, Jan and I would create something out of nothing. It was just crap and non-sensical stuff yet everything was so vivid even till today. :))

Like stories?

I have two friends who love to play tennis, Linky & Sarapova. They have a tennis coach who is short and rotund. The coach was once upset because Sarapova stood him up. Short coach subsequently complained to Linken. He also tried to bribe Linken by offering him free balls picked up by a Bla** guy. Incorrigible, indeed.

One day, Shawny, Linky & Sarapova went to a seminar. They were very concerned about punctuality. However, despite reaching the MRT at 9, they proceeded to purchase drinks @ Starbucks - the Christmas drinks which Linky violently recommended. Ok, not so violent. They also missed the opportunity to cross the road due to the taking place of a very intelligent and engaging conversation. They reached the place like 30 minutes late. Very conscientious students and teachers to be, indeed M** would be so proud of them. haha.

Just 2 stories out of a bunch of our interesting public policy seminar. :))

Public Policy

After two full days of public policy seminar, apparently my brain is stuck with nothing but the government, impeding public issues, conflicting interests of the public and the leaders etc. By nightfall, when I switched on the TV hoping hoping to relax, a simple videoclip of two artistes tying the knots triggered my thoughts yet again.

Impeding Issue-Low Marriage Rates cum Low Birth Rates!

On the TV, I witnessed the joy, happiness and warmth elicited by two beings who are insanely in love with each other. Perhaps their status play a role in the extent that they treasure their relationship. They have to be secretive about their relationship until they took their relationship several steps beyond that of a dating couple. The scenes from shooting their wedding photos till the actual wedding ceremony which took place in Guam Island further instilled in me the true meaning of happiness. It seems I figured my answer to the question of low marriage rates and birth rates.

In the past, marriage was an obligation. You marry someone out of status and of your parent's will. There was no defined boundaries for love or marriage. It was a "the female sticks to her spouse, through thick and thin" society. Women had no status, no rights, no freedom, no voice. Today, it's completely different. We are all educated. We constantly seek out our idealist ideology - TRUE LOVE coupled with WEALTH and AFFLUENCE. Yet, as an economics student, I can't help but dwell on the concept of scarcity which eventually leads to trade-offs and opportunity costs. Because of education, women are more informed of the society and no longer carry the burden of being subservient. Yes, with increasing number of working females, we drive the economic growth yet it comes at the expense of lower marriage rates.

Nevertheless, I can't help but question: What can be done to rectify this issue? Why do we always have to work and correct on the problem coming from the female aspect? What can be done about the males in Singapore?

True enough, I have heard tons of stories about guys complaining and whining about NS, about the government wasting 2 years of their time, about their female peers being 2 years ahead of them of everything etc. When as a female, you try to give your opinion, they shove you off by telling you that you don't understand them because you have never been through it personally. Just so because of the government hearing and empathizing with their situation, we tune women's lifestyle. We suggest that the women compromise and accommodate their male counterparts.

Over time, women's interest in this grumpy, constantly-whining Singaporean group of guys of age 20 or so yet behave like 70-year old war veterans dwindles and labels like pragmatic, over-realistic, idealist and materialistic Singaporean girls set in. Oh come on, I am not a feminist but having hearing so many guys out there speaking about globalisation, changing expectations and society yet all is nothing but a pack of lies of their so called Y-generation mindset. Underneath, they still think this is a world where men are superior and women has to bend down to norms and expectations, and I honestly feel this is a disguise of their true chavaunistic and egoistic self.

So would you consider marriage? Why land your fates on someone who employs his complaining tactics more frequently than taking actions?

Back to that TV scene. When the bride was led down the hallway of the church by her Dad towards the bridegroom, that was the scene that struck me real hard. Tears were welling up in the bridegroom's eyes as he picture his future with this woman, blissfully loved by him and how much he can offer to her. Thoughts swirled the girl as well. Is this man standing 10metres away from me the ONE who is going to take over my dad's role as the protective figure and shower me with unconditonal girl and love our family like there's no tomorrow? Will this be the man that I'd stick to through thick and thin and pledge my heart and soul? To me, it seems like at that very moment, I finally figured out what beholds true love. It doesn't matter if one day their feelings for each other diminishes or fades off, at least this moment will be etched in their memory about how much and how deep is their love.

Coming to reality. Not everyone meets their the other half that was meant to be. Some people end up marrying the wrong person which explains the record-breaking divorce rates today. Some people resign to not owning that brief moment of happiness that's why they remain single. Yet there are a few of the players out there who choose to absorb all these images as ABSTRACTS so they never really got serious about their relationships. What about You, YOu and yoU out there? Which category do you belong to then? Why not ask yourself about how serious you are about your other half that is by your side, by your bed right now? Imagine the day that you have to stand inside the church taking on the role of either the bridegroom or the bride, question yourself.

As the bridegroom, I am pretty certain that no matter how unemotional you are, if you marrying the woman that you want to give your best and protect your whole life, you cry. Not explicitly as in tears have to flush down your cheeks but either tears well up in your eyes or your heart feels the pinch because never have you been so sure of yourself.

As the bride, do those thoughts mentioned in the TV scene embrace you? Of allegiance, pledges, trust and absolute commitment? If you are still trying hard to convince yourself at that very moment, perhaps calling off the wedding would be a better way out.

One of the options to tackle our impeding public issue- more quality not quantity of marriages. I strongly believe in the high correlation between quality marriages and birth rates. I love the work of public administration. Challenging yet fulfilling.

"Satisfying your own qualitative ambitions is more of a hindrance than accomplishing merely monetary wants yet it yields more lasting effects that you can look back and flash out your customized grin."

Bird Day!

Yes, once again, the time of the year has arrived in the twinkle of an eye. Gosh!

I used to be excited about birthdays but no more now. Completely no idea what overcame me to produce such effects. Perhaps, it's because the sick bug is back to haunt me! I am suffering from constant abdominal pain since this morning! Fortunately, I have already had dinners and get-together with my friends already. Now, my body needs to recharge and have a good holiday.

Last Saturday, Omma, Jan, Jy & Lionel had dinner with me to pass me my birthday present. :)) It definitely caught me in surprise what they got for me. I totally wasn't expecting that. Nevertheless, I love it. Not because I am a materialistic person but apparently, I've always felt the gift you choose for someone is a representation of the person's worth in your heart. It need not be the price tag that tells the whole story but whether you had exercised concerns about the needs and likes of that person. It wasn't anything new on that day, KTV followed by dinner and finally a great movie to end the day.

I can't deny it's been ages since we last indulged ourselves in so much fun. At certain points and stage in life, we drift apart because we have embarked on our personal careers and future. However, I likened our bonds to those of DNA Strands. Our lives are twinned together and we all need support and concern from each other to make our days every now and then. For the occurrence of our encounters was one that was timely coupled with absence of hypocritism and shams. It was the presence of candidness that was never meant to be erased. I love this bunch of friends! :))

Source: Omma's Blog! :))

Upcoming was an All-expensed paid for Trip to Batam cum Seafood Dinner in M'sia sponsored by Chris and Pigsy Ang. I think it's a pretty good idea honestly. Pigsy and I once talked about sending birthday gifts to each other. We have all aged and are equipped with the ability to purchase the items that we deeply want. Instead of sending each other gifts, we might as well indulge each other in a good holiday treat or a smashing treat. That explains the idea. There isn't much sightseeing to be done on that small industrial island. All we did was EAT, CONSUME, DEVOUR and INGEST without ceasation! Lol! Pigsy was commenting that the amount of oil we consumed was equivalent to that of a month's intake! Lol! But the seafood at Malaysia was fabulous! Delicious and economical! The most hilarious thing is Pigsy and Chris told the Batam Tour Guide that I had gotten the trip for free as I had participated in the lucky draw organised by Pigsy and administered by Chris. The tour guide got really excited and started inquiring if she could have a try at that for an All-Expensed paid for lucky draw trip to Europe. Oh well, I apologise in advance. If there's really a lucky draw, I had already been the winner for all subsequent ones. The fact that Chris and Pigsy became my buddies simply showed that Lady Luck is and will be with me not this time round, but ALWAYS. Thanks Buddies!

The third round came when my NUS friends and I decided to get to Botanic Gardens to picnic and idle our afternoon away like how the Caucasians always do. Lol! I have to admit it was pretty cool and I finally LEARNT How to play BRIDGE! We met up at the Swan Lake with no real swans. Rachel was pretty disappointed that there weren't real swans in the lake. Apparently, she had caught hold of photos with swans in the lake. Oh gosh, GIRL, Which unauthorised website did you visit?! Lol! Yet the unheartening start to the trip failed to dampen our spirits. We headed to the ginger garden, then the National Orchid Gardens but the sun was extremely glaring so we finally came to grass fields near the Symphonic Performance Stage and laid our mats, food and music. What an afternoon spent!

Bridge is a tactical game. You need to know the rules really well to be able to figure out what's really going on. Apparently, Rachel hates games with lots of rules because her memory is deterioriating with age according to her personal testimony. Pauline was a new-timer no longer so she could guide us along. The most hilarious moment happened when all thought Pauline was my partner and that lucky winner turned out to be her though not. It was RACHEL!! We were so taken aback and burst into a series of laughters... Hilarious.

It was a great day spent because it was simply relaxing. Cupcakes were their way of cakes because there weren't cakes in the bakery at 630 am in the morning. Nice.! Advance Happy Birthday! Thanks PALS !

The highlight was probably when we were in the Children's playground and slowly our uncovered innocence and childish behaviour! Lol. Pauline and I were extremely amazed by a tree that gave off cooling water. It works the way those cooler fans in the coffee shops work nowadays. But Once a child, always a child I guess. Lol.. Hilarious Expressions all over.

We got so lethargic that we simply got to the garden and started to discuss about pitcher plants that were hanging around the garden. Pauline had just finished a general biology module this semester and it was a coincidence that her laboratory experiment was all about observing the pitcher plant! Rachel told me you can get those plants and place them at home so they will get rid of the mosquitoes for you. They GROW EXPONENTIALLY. Scary.

The rest were all sitting around but me, the human without proper backbones, simply laze around. Laid my bag, and down I went, making myself comfortable, lying against the benches. Wahaha.. We are such distinct personalities. But we had a good chat there and then. It made me realised how little time I had spent with them over the past 2.5 years despite seeing them 2-3 times a week every semester. Rachel's graduating and such gatherings will diminish as time grows. :(( Treasure those moments in life which you know never come easily. :))

"The Day the Earth Stood Still"

I stayed home on the actual day itself. I don't know why. Was just busy replying SMS and chilling at home since I wasn't feeling that well. At around 830 or so, met BY, KW, CB and TL at WM for a movie. One conclusion is: BY is a honest guy who really really really doesn't lie, even white lies! Lol.

QL: Hey BY! I have reached. Where are you guys?
BY: Ermm...
QL: Oh are you guys at the Arcade?
BY: Yeah, we are at the Arcade.
QL: Alright, I will catch you guys there then.

When I arrived, I saw Pigsy standing outside the Arcade busy text-ing. So the story was... They wanted to buy me a cake that's why he couldn't tell me where he was. CB suggested getting the cake cut right outside the arcade by the arcade while the Bangladeshs, Maids, Young and Old alike were 10metres away at the SAM machine making bill payments. Tell me, who on earth would agree?!?!?!

So we had to behave like those secondary school kids who hang around staircases. With a camera installed, apparently, it was suggested that we had to do everything hastily so that the security guard doesn't come around to chase us away. Lol!You can't disagree that the world's renowned song is "Happy Birthday to You!"

I thought the movie was pretty motivational for people who are resistant to change. But it is the kind of the movie that entails extreme opinions. People who are more sensitive to the world and dynamic would probably have a stronger liking for it. That was how I ended my day. :)) Simple and sweet.

Just when I thought all the birthday songs, blowing of candles have finally came to an end, another group of my NUS friends bought me another cake today when we met up for board games at Pistop. Totally unanticipated. Come to think of it, we weren't that close except my ex-roomie in beloved Stockholm. Our friendship took a drastic turn towards the end of the SEP perhaps due to communications and additional tolerance. Unanticipated but I am glad I had it.

I realise something. I have aged. I have changed. Physically, I am no longer excited over birthday cakes or songs yet emotionally, it still warms my heart whenever I listen to them. Sometimes, in fact, I feel "What did I do to deserve the love and warmth of so many really sincere and caring friends?" I spent little time with them, and one day, they may all be passer-bys in my life, or people whom I will never keep in contact with. The future is uncertain that's why I made such comments. But I told myself I will try to prevent that from happening even if it means meeting up only occasionally in future. There are people whom I know I will never bear to let go in life. It may be him, her, they, you.

In the past, I was naive. I thought "keep in contact, stay in touch" are promises or words meant to be kept forever and remember. But as I aged, I realise people use them too loosely. They are just words meant to display graciousness.

To me, the best way to remember someone is to never forget to send him or her a greeting every now and then and also on their BIRTHDAYS! A message a year isn't one that shows how much you really treasure someone, is it?

Some people dream about being rich, being good-looking, being successful, being famous, being wanted etc. Yes, I do dream of some of those things every now and then. But every year when my birthday arrives, I realise all those things ain't that important. Your happiness is never measured by those quantitative ideals. It's honestly measured by the qualitative aspects of life that are unmeasurable and unobservable. Only you yourself can set and observe the benchmark of those qualitative aspects. If I could dream of something, I would dream of everyday as my birthday. At least in this way, all my family members and friends would be surrounding me with wishes, love, care and concern. :)) I would appear on their mind for that very moment when they send me a text. They will allow me to be willful for once. :))

A million thanks for all the wishes! :))

No clues

I just came back from a good movie! Bolt! I don't watch animations nor cartoons usually because I always feel that they are for kids and I am one no more. However, this movie proved me wrong. Lol! As in, there were morals and lessons behind the show which apparently kids will never know but they are kids, they need not know anyway. I had agreed upon the movie without knowing that it was a cartoon but fortunately, it didn't disappoint me! :))

Exams are over finally yet I am more busy than ever. Lol. Looks like I will never have unoccupied time. What my friends say is right after all. When you are in school, you are busy with lessons and projects. When exams are round the corner, you bother yourself with the revision. When they are finally over, you keep yourself busy meeting up with different groups of people. So when is the time that you are actually free and have nothing better to do? It's merely a distinct commitment.

Some people leave without bidding goodbye. When you refuse to commit to others and open up to them, how on earth are they gonna make a difference in your life? You acknowledge everyone else's concern for you but in your mind, you have already forsaken yourself. When can this disequilibrium of your mood and emotions come to a halt? You appear cynical but that's a total deception of your true self. A whole life of success only to be overcame by a moment of foolishness, impulse and self-suppression. I really wish acquaintance had come earlier for me to make an impact somewhat, some way and somehow. As the clock ticks away, I realise time is running out. Is this ever solvable?

Counting downn!

Woohoo~ Exactly 25 hours to the end of my quarantine misery! Wahaha! Can't wait for the exams to end though this time round, I was in a holiday mood 80% of the time. The actual moments that I did seriously and concentrate on revising was probably the 24 hours before the exam time, less my sleeping hours.! Wahaha! I don't know why but I just can't make myself stay focused. So much of 'burning midnight oil nights and hugging the buddha's leg'! Pray that I get through :)) Lol!

Today's paper was unexceptionally challenging. I should have expected it nonetheless, complacency I guess. But I have no regrets because I did revise and had done my utmost best during the exam. There were simply too many questions and too little time. If I'd more time, at least I'd have time to straightened out and present my arguments properly yeah!

Fly me to the mmooonnn! I need a break!

And of course! Congrats to Peiliang! ORD already!! I vividly remember 2.5 years ago, both of us were counting down to this time of the year where we will both move onto another phrase of our lives. Yet, he's moving on while I am still currently stuck. :))
All the best for the future, NPAL!

Perfectionist.

Damn. I am bothered by it. I actually remember the keypoints to my exam question though I was a bit taken aback initially. Yet I only remembered 2 out of 4 of them! To make things worst, I changed my answers for one of the MCQs!!! Now that I am revising for another module and happened to come across the same concept, I realise I shouldn't have changed my answer yeah? Trust your intuition. Soooo Damnnn Pissseeed!!!

Guess I should quit my profession as a perfectionist. Allow myself to make mistakes. :))

Hap Hap Birthday!

Happy Birthday, Brother!

Yeah, it's my brother's birthday today and I happened to have an exam this morning! Nonetheless, we still manage to have a rather decent tim sum lunch! Lol! For the past three years, my brother's birthday fell on an exam date of mine. I ain't sure if I should count that as a blessing or a misfortune! Lol. We never really have a grandeur celebration in the past 3 years but perhaps, it's also because we no longer believe in birthday celebrations? The first year when I was in NUS, my brother had passed his driving test in the same year and he rented a car to get to this particular eatery @ Sembawang Shopping centre. Prior to that, I had a political science exam @ 5pm and I even went to the extent of getting to ICA to collect his passport with him. While waiting for him in the car since we couldn't get a carpark lot and I had to be a stand-by driver, I frantically fllipped my notes and tried to revise for my exam.

The second year when I was in NUS, I was due to leave for Stockholm in another month's time. Like the previous year, I had exams too! Lol.. We had a celebration on a small scale as well. Today, it's the 3rd year running! Indeed, time flies! True enough, I spent minimal time with my brother this year since I was away for the first half of the year. If you have a sibling, and you have a strong bond with him or her, nothing beats seeing him or her basking in happiness.

You grew up from the same background,
share the same little greenhouse,
walk to school in identical foot-steps,
fight over the same toys and delicacies,
quarrel out of nothing,
tolerate each other's temperament and nuisance,
watch each other transform from a immature young ass into a matured grown-up.

I remember we used to be very excited about our birthdays since they are merely 2 weeks apart. On hindsight, I didn't really get to enjoy birthdays when I was young. Somehow, God gave sickness to me as a birthday present. :( Perhaps that explains why when I got grow older, I respect my birthday, and needless to say, the birthday of everyone else whom I deem important. :)) Having seen lots of people around me who eventually drift apart from their siblings as they grow older, I must pronounce that my brother and I never ever will! Both of us do not know what the future holds for and where we will be yet we know, we will always be there for each other, in support emotionally, psychologically and physically!

Happy Birthday, my Dearest Brother! See the below for you!

Ordinary and pragmatic as you may seem to others
Yet deep beneath holds values and principals that bothers
Lacking the determination and intrepidness to dream and pursue
You make it seem like your life is due

If euphoria from being extraordinary holds no more
If contentment is what you are out for
Challenge the lionhearted innerself of yours
Before you judge your life and loss

Succumb is the word for you, never
Be the crusade against your fears forever
Let the past dissipate into nothingness
For the future beholds your true happiness

Your success is not measured by the amount of money you earn, the size of the house that you live in or the brand of the car that you drive. Hitherto, it may seem I am ahead of life's race but at least to me, you are always ahead of me.! The morals, the judgments, the values are etched in my mind wherever I may be now or in the future. Give yourself more worth and credits for the impact made to others and never surrender to life or its struggles! :)

Nocturnal

I am becoming more Nocturnal than ever recently.

This is detrimental to my well-being. But perhaps my jet-lag is still lingering. Considering the fact that my study hours while I was in Europe are my sleeping hours in Singapore. :( Oh, that's not an excuse though since I never really studied in Europe too! I have been sleeping at 5-6 am every day then having to wake up at 11-12 pm. My mom feels for me. She thinks that I am studying hard?! Oh I feel guilty about it. Half of the time, I am on facebook playing pet society! Just can't FOCUS!! Strike me!!! Lol!

Ah, 4 more papers, 6 more days! Was extremely satisfied when I took my financial economics textbook and placed them in a place that I will never visit for the next 2 months!!!! It's tiring mugging for exams but every time you complete a module, it gives you a sense of indescribable fulfillment after the exam!

DBD

Dooms Before Dawn!
Wish me best of luck!
7 days till the dawn break!

梦想的心

每当我望着电视荧光屏 

一个个抱着梦想的人 

努力勇敢追逐他的梦 

波涛汹涌的挫败感总是涌上心头  

那年对自己承诺过的梦 

如今已不在咫尺 

随着时间的流失 

我是否已经适应了周遭  

我选择对现实投降 

宁愿自己不曾梦过 

我选择对环境屈服 

戴上保护自我的装 

只有真正付出的人 

值得拥有梦的权力  

我看着堆积如山的书本 

知识积少成多的成果 

很庆幸流露出的感动 

我应该调整自己的心态  

那对歌唱的热忱是无可取代的 

我这短暂的快乐 

不是我要想要的 

时光机是否能找回掉了的梦想 

＊＊说过音乐是永垂不朽的 

却默默笑着对它挥挥手 

难道我已彻底忘得干净＊＊  

我即将脱下保护色 

以新的我面对恐惧 

让梦想不再是幻想 

自由带我展翅高飞 

让幸福不再是谎言 

彼此依靠等待发光

Meaningful Lyrics?

many many years ago..

Companied my little nieces to school to pick up their PSLE results yesterday.
It's a weird feeling.
Perhaps weird is not the right word.
It feels more like "déjà vu" lol!
The uncertainty, anxiety that occupied their faces
I guess I experienced that a decade ago.
Everyone gathering at the school hall
Anxiously waiting for the principal to announce the top pupil
Saying your appreciation for your teachers and the school
Getting back to your classroom.
Waiting for your name to be called to get your result slips.
Of course not forgetting, asking your friends for their results.
Now: No one does that anymore!
They keep their slips close to their heart.

Guess I was too naive back then
No aspirations, no ambitions
Never learnt that intelligence only contributes to 30% of your achievements
When I saw my results, disappointment embraced me.
Yesterday, I witness that in my little nieces too.
The feeling of seeing all your friends shining out of hardwork and effort
You only have yourself to blame I guess.
Fortunately I made up for it in Sec Sch.
But I never had the opportunity to attend the Speech & Awards presentation.
Vividly remember it.
I had a test in Poly.

So I became determined to never let that disappointment come near me again.
So far so good, I am keeping up with the pace.
But sometimes I wonder.
How long would that last before I bid Satisfaction goodbye again?

Whatever you dream of,
Whatever you desire.
Never let them go unless before you ever try :))

What does it hold?

I was catching up on the taiwan variety show, Kang Xi Lai Le the past two days. Seriously, it made me pondered. What does it hold to become someone famous? You worry about being extremely famous because reporters will be hounding after you every single day. You fear that you are an artiste but when you are on the streets, not many people actually identify you and give you some recognition. Or you are eager for people to give you some attention.

Suddenly, I realise it takes a lot of courage to be become an artiste. You have a short-lived career and you lose your privacy. Perhaps when you are young, you desire and dream of fame but what happens when you become older, you mature and you feel like settling down? You are deprived of the opportunity or you lose your youth to your dreams. :(

However, being a singer has always been my dream isn't it? It weighs a lot for me to be able to stand on a stage, be given a microphone to express my thoughts through music. I may not be equipped with a good vocal that will be able to conquer everyone's hearts and win thunders of applause but I hope my music can share someone's thoughts out there, give them the motivation and encouragement that is lacking in life given the bleak situation that is facing everyone nowadays. But I know I will never have the chance.

It looks like I've tons of dreams and it is near to impossible that I live through every single one. Occasionally, I just like to talk about them and fantasize. That will make me figure out life's meaning and purpose and motivate me further. As you age and live through them, every moment that you spent living your dream is an unforgettable moment in life. At least till now, I vividly remember every moment I spent in Manchester's Theatre of Dreams, I retain images of Europe, especially Stockholm and Paris, in my mind.

I will never have the chance to fulfil my ambition of being a singer because I guess I lack the courage to pursue that dream that encompasses too much uncertainty.

71:"I just wanna SING..."

White Tiger Incident

Oh I love White Tigers! Alright, that seems to have nothing to do about the incident that I want to talk about. Apparently, this has been the top discussion topic between my family members and I recently. I have been constantly following the news and trying to get the video footage of the incident. I am not being evil but I am honestly curious about how it happened.

I feel for the white tigers. They are so innocent. Someone actually made a comment like this and I can't agree less with him:

"If I intrude into your house and start provoking you, and out of fear and feeling threatened, you retaliate, should your neighbour that happened to be there gun you down or me?"

The man intentionally intruded the white tigers' physical space and provoked them. They reacted out of their natural instinct so it wasn't really their fault.! Having been domesticated for the past 8 years, they have been isolated from fresh meat and most probably their predatory instinct have become rusty. Yet, now someone has once again triggered their natural instinct to prey by intentionally provoking them. Further, unnecessary attacks like tourists throwing umbrellas across and sticks, their helpless screams and shrieks must have traumatised the poor white tigers.

Looking at this incident, it brought me images of the touching story of a lion and his owners. Christian, the lion, was domesticated when he was a young cub. Subsequently, he grew too big and had to be released back into the wild to survive on his own. A year later after leaving him, his owners decided to go to Africa to pay him a visit. Though experts suggest that they would have been forgotten by Christian, the lovely lion proved those experts wrong. He gave them big hugs and was so agitated to see them!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=adYbFQFXG0U

We are all animals, ain't we? The difference between the animals and us is probably we express our love, care and concern, needs and wants through speech and communication in words. The animals communicate using body language, touch, and in their own language. It's just like you and me, being Chinese, are unable to understand others who speak Spanish, French or Portuguese. However, if we were to learn the language, we would then be able to break down communication barriers. Deep inside me, I always feel that animals have feelings. Despite being big cats, being ferocious animals, lions and tigers feel for the owners who take care of them since young. But if they were to face a stranger, they would turn nasty. Like you and me, we are reserved when we meet strangers. In fact, we would feel threatened when someone just comes forward and starts to insult you or provoke you. We turn nasty too but perhaps in a more civilised way.

Maybe I should learn the animal language so that one day, I could experience the dream of being in the wild with those big cats since they are my favourite animals since young. Lol! But that's provided that I would not be consumed by them otherwise I'd not be able to live out my dream. After all, I am talking about a DREAM.... :))

你不是真正的快乐

人群中哭着
你只想变成透明的颜色
你再也不会
梦或痛或心动了
你已经决定了
你已经决定了

你静静忍着
紧紧把昨天在拳心握着
而回忆越是甜
就是越伤人了
越是在手心留下
密密麻麻深深浅浅的刀割

你不是真正的快乐
你的笑只是
你穿的保护色
你决定不恨了
也决定不爱了
把你的灵魂
关在永远锁上的躯壳

这世界笑了
於是你合群的一起笑了
当生存是规则
不是你的选择
於是你含着眼泪
飘飘荡荡跌跌撞撞的走着

你不是真正的快乐
你的伤从不肯
完全的愈合
我站在你左侧
却像隔着银河
难道就真的抱着遗憾
一直到老了
然后才后悔着

你值得真正的快乐
你应该脱下
你穿的保护色
为什麽失去了
还要被惩罚呢
能不能就让悲伤
全部结束在此刻
重新开始活着

我相信这首歌应该可以述说出很多人的心声吧！你是否真正的快乐？？

Ideas

I need some ideas. Does anyone have any good recommendations of any restaurants, cafes, bars, or hang-out places in Singapore? Please feel free to drop me comments or tags to let me know. I need choices. :)) The location doesn't matter. :))

The semester has officially ended today for me! I don't know why but I ain't too happy. In the past, I'd most probably be grinning from ear to ear but not this semester definitely. Perhaps it's because of the uncertainty that is going to plague me next semester, perhaps it's due to the departure of my friends who are going to graduate, perhaps it's.... I don't know why?! I had a good chat with Rachel and Pauline in the library today for 2 hours. We were reminiscing the silly yet happy moments of our Polytechnic and secondary sch or jc lives. Ah! How I miss them.. Those days of having something to forward to, those days of going after the same person, ah, I wonder how XMM is doing right now?! Talking about those days, I can't help but think of someone whom I see every now and then. Woohoo~ Omma, your best "pal". Come to think of it, it's really more of a coincidence.

I once thought I'd never see him again in my life. Yet, now that I look back and recap, we seemed to bump into each other every now and then..
From outside the book store,
Till just after a holiday trip.
Randomly after a day's shopping,
When I was driving on the road
Eventually after I came back from SEP, at a random shopping mall.

Now, I am wondering when will I bump into him coincidentally again?!

Last Leg.

I am still short of 7 days of posts for my June Trip. Shall update by this week before I break off for exams.! My blog layout is boring. I need some inspirations...! :))

Frequenter

Judging from the pathetic number of posts I have the past few months, I decided to contribute something today.!

Well well well, what's new? The repetitive lifestyle is approaching me in a week's time. Yes, it's EXAMS once again. Honestly, this semester has just flew past me without me knowing. I don't know why everything seems accelerated. Perhaps half of the time I wasn't paying any attention to school. Some things and memories linger on my mind and I wasn't as focused. I hate the comparison that arises from time to time. Nonetheless, at least I can have a break after the exams and sort things out.

Exam :the time of the year when the school is out to prove that you ought to still remain in school because you haven't learn enough.

(Some people may agree with the above!)

For ME:

Exam: the moments in life when the school is out to quarantine everyone from their leisure first before driving adrenaline rush a month later. :))

After this semester, my 2.5 years of honeymoon college studies will come to an end finally. If I successfully promote to go for Honors, it will be one drastic year forthcoming. Just the workload of the modules alone scares me.

I will have to start mugging soon and I hate it. Not because I hate the books but because I won't be able to stay out late as and when I like it. I won't be able to play tennis every week, I won't be able to stream episodes after episodes of HK drama, I miss playing mahjong, the KTV room is empty without my patronization, and I definitely have to curtail myself from spamming facebook applications everyday. Arrgghh!

But I need the semester to end quickly at the same time so that I would have the time to start working on the ideas that have occupied my mind for the past few days...

Anticipating change, executing dreams. :))

3 Cheers to Obama!

What has got the American presidency gotta do with me?!

Oh well, I am definitely a democrat rather than a republican. Abolish free trade? Remove Capitalism? Bring Change to America.!

Barrack Obama--> Someone with so much dreams and hopes for America.

I think him being elected sends a strong signal to the world, to Americans, to ordinary beings like you and me. :)) We would never imagine that the white Americans would vote in a Black president, didn't we? Thus, his success at the presidency sends the message that as long as you dare dream and you dare take the steps towards your dream, I am sure your footprints will not be hidden. It will lead you to where you wanna belong.

Go Obama!!

Love and Hope?

The world today is lacking a bit of love and hope?

People around me are feeling grey? People around me are seeing blues?
Argghh! Sometimes I get tired of all the hassles of life, expectations, requirements etc.
Every now and then, feelings like these bother me..
I don't know why they arise and how they arose?
Too much work? Too little leisure? Insufficient space?
It's a passing phase of life..
We'll all overcome it..
I never get lost with love in sight..
I find my foothold with hope in me..
In unison, we'll be right there embracing our dreams :)

Thoughts

Life in Singapore is mundane.
Was just randomly talking to friends and family members about my life in Stockholm.
I behave more like a human in Stockholm.
In Singapore, I am no more than a robot.
I sleep 4-5 hours each day.
At times, 2 hours is what I get like last night.
Beer.Alcohol.KTV.Tennis.Badminton.
I feel life is much more fulfilling after I am back.
School's breathing down my neck with the tons of assignments due.
However, I am glad I am left with the last final report.

I've always ponder about this question.
I realise that as people get older, they find it more difficult to find true friends?
Why? Because of the level of commitment in their life.
There are some people out there who are really sincere in making friends with me.
However, eventually we never become true friends.
Some people question my sincerity in being friends with them. WHY?
I am committed when I say it. I assure.
Like what MH told me last week-Crispy is the word.
I did try to diversify my time.
However, it takes two hands to clap.
How to convince someone that you are sincere in being friends with him or her?
Actions?
Thoughts?
I am an expressive person.
Actions speak louder than words.
I will prove it some day.
Just for YOU.

Sleep

Sleep deprived for the past 3 days.
Books, Tests, Life, Concerns?
Finally a good night's sleep... !

The story of being-in-existence

There are certain people that you want to treasure all your life.
<--> Dedicated to.... - she hears..<-->

As we stroll down the roads of the country at night,
Whining and mincing every little bit of life trying to make it right.
Yet at the end of day, we just left things to God to decide.

The company of someone to share your life,
You constantly feel YOU will be able to thrive,
And never have to hear yourself cry.

As we passed by the landscapes that envisioned our dreams,
We held in high hopes of witnessing how we realise them by our own means.
Yet all was torn apart by just one burst of steam.

The countless of complains that dominated our conversations,
The dependence on one to be sensitive to all emotions.
Why would anyone be able to handle such situations?

With the passage of time things turned for the worst,
The minute happiness could no longer quench our thirst.
So who on earth would give up first?

Those were the days that YOU and I missed Dearly,
Yet Neither would ever be able to piece things back neatly,
Cause something that's bro ken will never work perfectly.

I just randomly saw this piece of words in a blog and I thought it was really nice. I guess this person must be missing someone in his or her life a lot a lot. Lots of thoughts came to my mind.

-> Could it be life and death that made him or her wrote something like that?
-> Or was it the loss of a relationship?
-> Yet it could also be the separation between two best friends.
-> Was it the distance that started to lengthen between family members?

I believe everyone has had someone whom he or she wants to treasure all his or her life, so do I. No matter how bad things between two become, no matter how circumstances change their relationship, regardless of the conflicts that arose, you always need one party who is constantly trying to maintain and salvage what's been broken or hurt. I must say it is really a good attempt. Yet I can't deny the fatigue that comes with one party being on the heavier side of any kind of relationship. Perhaps at times, learning to let go generates a higher level of happiness.

Further, there are certain values that all of us want to uphold or the so-called morals and principles. Yeah, it might be nice to have them so it keeps you in check all the time. However, at the end of the day, sometimes it is these morals and principles that stagnates you.

In the past, I used to think that letting go is a stupid option. Why let go if you really wanted something? But perhaps my perspectives have changed. It takes more courage to let go and say no than to hold on to something that has already flown away from your hands not once, but maybe twice or even thrice. Something's that forced is never better. It only makes both parties more conscious of what they are holding in their hands.

I totally concur with the last sentence, "Cause something that's broken will never work perfectly".

But sometimes when I look back in life and count the number of people that have walked into and out of my life, I questioned myself. Did I let go too easily? Would my life have been much different if I spent more time with him or her? Would his or her life have taken a different path if we had built up a different form of communication?

Memories of some people stay with me. For Life. Like what someone told me before, all of us keep those feelings that have hurt us in a small corner of our heart subconsciously. As the clock ticks, the pain in us diminishes. When long enough has passed, our wounds heal and we longer hurt. Yet those memories never leave us. Every now and then, when time permits, we take these memories out. The feeling or hurt and hatred no longer lingers yet we just can't forget them. That's why everyone says "Forgive and Forget". Forgiveness has to come first because it is must easier, and no one ever really forgets.

If at this moment, you are at one of the crossroads in your life, don't make things more difficult than necessary. Be brave just this once, make a change and move on with life. Cause you never know what beautiful landscapes lie ahead.

71:"I view the a glass that is half-filled with water as half-full rather than half-empty."

What is the world becoming to ?

Yet another piece of bad news when I bought the Straits Times today. It's been almost 3 months since I am back and everyday when I read the news, it's always more turmoil!

1. The US Bailout plan failed to go through. Imagine the implications that it will have globally. Millions of people will be affected. Sometimes, I wonder if Singaporeans are just passive or are they genuinely ignorant? People around me don't seem to be the least bit concerned about the failure of the US credit market. Maybe I misunderstood them. They are avoiding the topic because they are too traumatised? Come on, despite a diversified economy, Singapore is pretty reliant on the US economy for its survival. Hundreds of our citizens fill up positions at the US-based investment banks in Singapore. Millions of our cash deposited with the bank goes into investments in the US Debt and Equity Market. But are Singaporeans informed about all these things? Are they concerned about Singapore's prospects and future? Yes, Singapore has huge reserves backing the economy and the MAS has repeatedly provided assurance for Singapore's banking and finance industry. But think back to those times in the 1997 Asian financial crisis. Perhaps you weren't too affected by it that's why it didn't struck you this time round.

Thousands of people lost their jobs, investments pulled out, inflation was pervasive etc. If you think you are not going to start to be concerned about what's happening around us, slap yourself and wake yourself up and start to pay more attention. Be informed, don't be just another ignorant Singaporean who just knows how to eat, drink, work, sleep and wait for the day God receives you. Don't just idle and think that the government is going to solve any crisis for us. Yes, we are in good hands right now but there must be something that we all can do to play a part in driving Singapore's economy. You have enjoyed the fruits of labour laid by our ancestors. It's also our responsibility to ensure our kids and grandchildren have the same luxury as us. :)

2. Tainted-milk scandal in China. China's largest importer-US. The US has been running a trade-deficit with the Chinese for decades. With the toy scandal last year followed by the tainted milk products this year, China's economy is expected to suffer a setback for sure. Millions of food consumers worldwide are recalling products that are suspected to have used milk powder produced by the China San-Lu company. Despite having launched the space shuttle into space just last week, returning this week, your military and technology supremacy does not translate necessarily into global recognition. All eyes are on how this scandalous tainted-milk product drama is going to end? Will domestic and international consumers trust China's product like before?

3. Numerous cases of murders and suicides. Recently the news and newspapers have been making headlines of murders and suicides. From the Yishun's murder case to the recently homicide of the 15-year old China girl by her step-father and recently the suicide case at Bukit Batok. Just what's happening to the world? Yes, Singapore used to be largely-immigrant based in our history. It was the Chinese and Indian immigrants which contributed largely to Singapore's growth. But will Singaporeans be able to accept these immigrants today like they used to a century ago? Without technology and the temptations of greed, I am sure my answer will be a definite YES. After all, we are all descendants of China too. But circumstances have changed today.

A century ago, men and women who came from China purely wanted to lift themselves out of poverty and to escape the war with Japan. Men left in search of a better life while women left to avoid the humiliation by the Japanese. After they arrived in Singapore, their main priority was to work. Nowadays, those China women that came with their kids are simply atrocious! Getting into scandals with local Singaporean guys, creating social problems of all kinds.. Just take a look at the past 4-5 years. How many cases of murders, cheat, suicides involved these Chinese ladies. Why are we wasting our precious human talents and resources from the Ministry of Home Affairs to deal with all the problems that these non-locals have created? I can rationalise people's negative connotations and attitudes towards these foreign migrants. We all started with a neutral mindset and accepted them. But you can't help deny that it's their own behaviour, actions and attitudes that have altered our perceptions of them. It takes two hands to clap.

Well, of course these are just my personal comments and have no intention of directing any opinion against or towards anyone. Tomorrow will be BETTER! :)

Just a random thought

I was having a pretty restless journey on 198 SBS Bus this afternoon after my mid-term test in school. It was just like any other ordinary ride home on a typical school date. But a brief 3 minutes of playback on the TV Mobile left tears welling up in my eyes. For a moment, I felt proud that I was a Singaporean!

There she was, Ms Yip Pin Xiu, battling against her physical handicap fighting for a GOLD medal for Singapore in the Paralympics. The moment when she was wheeled up the winning platform and presented with the medal, in my opinion, should be one that will be etched in her memory. The National Anthem, which I have been singing every single day for my 12 years of elementary and secondary education, was ALAS played! Wasn't this what the government, the public, the whole nation were waiting for? However, from my observation of the passengers on the bus, none of them seemed interested in what was being shown on the TV.

I've always felt that being able to represent your nation in any form of competition, exchange, seminars etc is something that makes you take a lot of pride in it. It doesn't matter if you emerge as a champion, though being one amplifies the honour.

I am glad that some day in the near future, I too will be serving the Nation and I definitely hope I will be able to continue serving the Nation for the rest of my life in fact! :)

Closing Note: I wish the girl best of luck in her future. :)

When you have a problem and you keep dwelling on it, you do not solve the problem. Instead, you amplify it and make it a BIGGER problem.

NO TITLE

Yeah!I am back to playing tennis! It feels extremely good!!!

Oh well, Chris can't go on the WAT USA. I can't describe my disappointment. After all, we had agreed on going together. I feel bad not keeping my promise. However, I have my concerns too. I am graduating in Dec next year while he graduates in July the year after me. Considering the fact that I will be in NIE by then and I won't have anymore breaks, I have no choice but to go the next coming summer. It's such a struggle. Nevertheless, I don't want to give up this opportunity too!

71:"I am so sorry, Chris!"

Mid-terms are round the corner. I don't feel the urgency to mug yet. What's wrong?! Too used to the laid-back Swedish lifestyle. haha.. I guess Hitting MY BOOKS hard is next on my agenda. In progress of adapting back to the Singapore pace!

Air of Freedom

As I cycled along the road and streets in the Jurong West Neighbourhood, I feel an air of freedom surrounding me once again. Cycling really brings me happiness. It doesn't matter if I am slower than the vehicles that whiz past me every minute. I was deprived of this freedom for almost 3 weeks. Now it feels good to own it once again.

I was a bit bored and lethargic after working on my lab report the whole afternoon. Thus, I decided to re-read some of the past entries in my blog. I started from the January ones of course! Honestly, I marvel at how my command of English had improved over these 8 months!! If you doubt my words, all you have to do now is to put your hand on your mouse and move it to the right scroll bar and scroll down to the archives and click on the January tab. Read the entry right at the bottom and move upwards. It is unnecessary to read all of the January entries. You probably just have to read the first few ones. Subsequently, you read the later ones in July or August or even September. The words that I used, the way I structure my sentences, my grammar etc have all changed!!

Further, writing essays has always been a cause of concern for me when I first entered NUS. I don't seem to be able to relay my ideas well. However, if I were to be given an essay to write on at this moment, I doubt I will panic. Everything just flows to me so naturally. Instead, writing lab reports suck! I feel so screwed because I have completely no idea what I should include and not. I used to excel better in reporting facts but I think the tides have changed now. I prefer argumentative essays somehow. :)

Barcelona day 2-18 June 2008

The second day I spend in a city always seem to be the most hectic one.. I woke up not too early but in time to catch my free breakfast and to explore Gaudi's creation! Honestly, he's a GENIUS!! hahaa... Why do I say that?

Catalunya street.

Plaza catalunya. Come to my place some day if you wanna see a sketch of that place.

3 of his most famous architectures are Casa Batllo.La Sagrada Familia.La Pedredo. It's expensive to visit every single one of them so I decided to pick one out of the 3. Both Monica and the Singaporean girl I met along the way told me La Sagrada Familia (the most famous one) wasn't good at all. There were construction ongoing so they said it wasn't worth visiting. Thus, I went for La Pedreda and honestly it was good. You get a good view of the city and you can see a collection and exhibition of all his creations. Honestly, he's a genius!!! Most of the buildings he designed had arches or pillars as support and it's amazing. Wait till I upload the photos and you will see how smart this guy is! It took me almost the whole day till 5 to finish seeing all his creations because I spend 2.5 hours at La Pedredo alone and did a super thorough tour...

Casa Batllo.

La Pedreda
Look at the curvature of the building. It's extremely unique.

The hollow roof-top.

La Pedreda's miniature.

How I managed to get my own reflection? Gaudi was a fan of arches and pillars. In the sense, he felt that buildings with pillars and arches could enhance the outlook of the building. But it was difficult to calculate the exact size and amount of pillars that he could add. So he often used metal chains to create the outline of his building and slowly he added in the arches and pillars. In order to know what the outcome would be like, he placed a mirror below his hanging model and that's how you catch hold of an upright model of the end product. Brilliant!

See -- pillars and arches once again.
He also made use of tooth picks, satay sticks, animal remains to create his model.
Scorpion skeletal.
The interior of La Pedreda. The rooms of the residents who used to live in the building preserved as it was.

The maid's room.
Look at the traditional costume of a maid.
The ironing room.
A kid's toy chest. This is so old school.
Roof-top of La Pedreda





Some views that I caught while making my way to La Sagrada Familia.

Finally there! Lots of scaffolding and maintenance works ongoing.

But look at the design and sculptures on the cathedral. Amazing isn't it?

My next destination definitely has to be BARCELONA CAMP NOU! haaha.. Honestly, I don't think the tour is worth 17 EUR?? haha.. The stadium is HUGE honestly but they did not assign a guide to bring you around and explain anything to you. Basically, they fenced off areas for the tour so you just have to follow the yellow barriers along the way. There wasn't any guide to explain to you so it's kind of boring. Frankly speaking, I still think the one I had in Manchester was the best. Humourous guide.Nice experience and it was only 7 pounds? haha.. Maybe the Spanish don't speak English that well so they can't have someone showing you around and explaining things to you? But I spent almost 2.5 hours there once again, exploring, seeing the stadium from different viewpoints. I can justify why Camp Nou is the 2nd largest football stadium in the world. It's even bigger than Old Trafford!!!

Approaching FC Barcelona.

Food vendors just outside the stadium.

The INFAMOUS CLUB LOGO!

Camp Nou's exterior.

They had this interactive movie on display. You have to use "special eyewear", those used for seeing luminous lights to be able to see this movie.
Guess who's this player? DECO!
Camp Nou's interior

The playing field. Even the grass is painted with the logo.
The stadium from the lowest level. The playing ground.



Where the coaches sit.

Do you want a photo taken with Lionel Messi? The other is Theiry Henry.

The playing field through a video.

The player's Dressing Room. So nicely maintained and lighted.

They have a small area for prayers too. I guess they are devoted Catholics. :)
The Press Conference Room!
The club at a higher level.

Where the reporters sit. They have tables installed with powerpoints so they could do their news reporting on the spot. How nice can that be!
The field from the highest level!

The Spanish are really passionate about football as I observed. Kids daunting football jerseys on the streets, street performers displaying their undiscovered football talent, pubs and bars showing football matches.. Football is in almost every aspect of their life. They are the Spaniards. :)

Now to the story behind Barcelona. Barcelona is more than a football club in Spain. It is an unspoken symbol of protest to the Spanish dictator government back to the days when the war just ended. The football club is founded by this Swiss guy, Joan Gamper, who was an educated, passionate sportsman in his younger days. Born with a silver spoon, he had the opportunity to learn sports and when he grew into adulthood, he decided to spread the knowledge of sports to Barcelona, a city he fell deep in love with. So he introduced football, basketball to fellow Catalonians living in Catalan (today's Barcelona), a city at the borders of Spain.
Museum with Ronaldhino in display.

And now comes the Joan Camper's museum.

The barcelona Crest!

I thought this was damn cool!

Arsenal and Manchester United merchandise for sale in Barcelona's megastore. What an irony! Who would buy those stuff??

The two world wars followed and Spain after landing into Francisco Franco's (Spain's dictator since 1936) hands, controlled Catalan. Catalanism was seen as an undisciplined culture and was banned throughout Barcelona. The Catalan name of the football club had to be changed to a Spanish one. Since street protests of any kind, demonstrations, masses or gatherings etc were forbidden in the city, the football stadium or other sports ground became one of the few legal places where Catalan could be spoken and it was an illegal gathering ground for the rebels. Being a Barca fan back then entails your disapproval of the government or a silent protest to the dictator government. Subsequently, Joan Gamper was suspected of treachery, of promoting Catalanism and was stripped off his post as the President and expelled from Spain (back to Switzerland). As a result, he sank into depression coupled with other personal and money problems. He eventually took his own life. :(

I like how they manipulate the crest.

How sad that is right? Barcelona was founded by him yet he didn't manage to spend his last days at the club he raised and fed. While I was there, they actually attributed a corner of the museum to the club's founder. It was interesting reading what happened in his life.

My personal thoughts: DO you want to TIP_TOE through life or Would you like to lead a life full of highs and lows like his?

After the tour, the sky was starting to get dark and I got a bit tired. I took a walk around the area, snacked a bit and took a walk at another commercial shopping area in Barcelona. However, that was not the end of my fun-filled day. My last stop was the Gaudi Park!

Apparently, it was designed by Gaudi that's why it is named after him. Haha. Apparently, he himself had this idea of building a public park where families and friends could gather, couples could date, the Spanish people could relax after a day's hardwork. He was authorised to build it anyway. The way to the Park is one of a hell one. You have to go up this slope which is extremely steep and climb a million flight of steps. Honestly, I'd like to ask Mr Gaudi why had he chosen such a location? With that kind of location, I doubt it'll be anywhere near popular regardless how well it was designed or how much facilities did they equip the park. Indeed, the whole park was a failure after its launch and it did not attract the Spanish people as much as it expected. What a shame! However, if not for the undeserted location, I'd think that place is one where I'd want to spend time at every weekend if I were a Spanish or happen to live in Spain.

The way up!

Mid-way through. Hanging in there!!

The view there was captivating. You could see Barcelona at your feet, with the La Sagrada Familia, La Pedreda, all of Gaudi's works right in front of you. You marvel at how beautiful this small city could be. I saw people strumming music in the park, kids running all around at the playground and of course couples dating and friends just sitting around and looking for comfort from each other. Nevertheless, I go for Retiro Park in Madrid and even Luxembourg Gardens in Paris. I think they are much more successful!

The picturesque scenery. The building at the far end resembles the the tower of london right? But it's Barcelona's unique tower. La Sagrada Familia in the left.

The sun is almost setting. Time check: 9:05 p.m!

The playground

The benches in the park

A church at the foot of the park.

Whenever you see arches in the design of the place, you will know it must have been HIS creation. I mean Gaudi. He loves to use such ideas.

The landmark of Gaudi Park-The reptile! :)

The exit of the Park

Las Ramblas at night!