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! :))
Thursday, 25 December 2008
Wednesday, 24 December 2008
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.
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~~~
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. 
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~~~
Tuesday, 23 December 2008
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. :))
Wednesday, 17 December 2008
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.
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."
Wednesday, 10 December 2008
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. :))
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! :))
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! :))
Friday, 5 December 2008
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?
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?
Tuesday, 2 December 2008
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!
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!