Seremban (15th – 17th Oct 2010)
22 Oct 2010 Leave a Comment
in family, food, history, holiday, inspiration, interest, Just Updates, life, mood, reflections, singapore, whatever
This is a trip I will probably never forget in years to come. And it’s such an eye-opener, I’m feeling fortunate enough to be living in a place like Singapore. And it has opened up to me that life there is a totally different meaning in all, and I feel different. I feel that I seriously need to change. What did I face, you must have asked. Well, this is 3 days of life in Seremban, where my late great-grandparents lived and when my dad used to grow up at a playground and falling almost everytime he runs around it.
Day 1 – 2145H
Technically, the playground is not there anymore, and it has become a carpark by day, but roadside eateries by night. And I had char kuay teow without kuay teow. Solid eh. Sitting on stoods that probably will break anytime, I had a lot of food on that particular night alone, with my uncle bringing us to eat some great beehoon with handmade fishballs and zhi char. After that was supper at the roadside eateries. Had a bowl of tauhuay, a cup of coconut drink and that plate of char kuay teow. You know, the one that sold the coconut drink to us is an old lady that has been cutting, peeling and selling that drink since my dad was young? And how old and frail she looks now but still able to wield a freaking parang right at you? That’s the amount of energy she still got left in that woman. Respect.
And we left for my grandaunt’s place, getting to know some of them, like my twin aunts and my uncle, and yes, I only realise that I have more relatives than I think I had. Discovery #1 – I have more aunts and uncles. Discovery #2 – my twin aunts used to be reporters in KL. Cool or what. But anyways, they are very friendly and humble people, and patient for sure. And I’m truly ashamed that many Singaporeans are of the opposite attitude. I guess we all live in different worlds, but it’s hard not to compare about attitude and persona. So I turned in early, because the first activity on the itinerary is to wake up at 4am and be at a cemetry at 5am. You don’t wanna know that freaking feeling I tell you.
Day 2 – 0502H
Upon reaching the cemetry, we were all cooped up, dark and cosy in the car, with no surrounding lights, and nothing but only the bleak orange horizon that stood beyond the hills that provide that very very soft shade of light. Technically, you can’t see shit. And this is not the end of it. My great-grandparents’ grave is somewhere in between, and when I get to their tomb, it’s already scary enough because surrounding you are actually tombstones till the hills that masked off all light. Imagine when you are on a platform in the middle of the ocean with sharks surrounding you. That’s the kind of feeling you get. I didn’t think that much, but it’s damn creepy, because everyone else around you is dead. Like, yea, seriously dead.
The shifu got into his robe and he started his chanting all the way. It feels like going through a funeral all over again, just that it’s only a few of us and it’s not fun doing it at 5am in the morning when all souls are resting. The purpose of this is that we need to cremate our great-grandparents and place them at a crematorium at Seremban. But this cemetery is somewhere north of Seremban. So while waiting for the gravediggers to be done with their job, we headed for breakfast, and I caught one of the most beautiful sunrise in my entire life. It’s like a stream of cloud underlining diagonally up with the sky dyed red and orange. That feeling is undeniably good because I have been trying to chase sunsets and sunrise everytime. And I get good ones there. =D
It’s even better when you are having breakfast, with a bowl of noodles and a cup of Ice tea. What a way to start the day.
Day 2 – 0930H
So we headed back to rest after that, before heading out again to the temple with a crematorium at the top of a hill. It’s was all serene there, with birds chirping and light breeze every other second. The place was clean and neat, a very pleasant turnout for the eyes indeed. It resembles only one word in my mind – Peace. And the ritual continued, with myself being the eldest great-grandson (makes me feel that old), carrying my great-grandma’s urn and placing into the slot that our relatives purchased. After making our offerings and burning the necessary papers, it was time to head back for lunch, when another aunt of mine whipped up a sumptuous meal that I will probably never forget.
The best dish was the Ginger Wine Chicken. The best dish I had that afternoon. Two thumbs up!
Day 2 – 1450H
We headed to Jusco to talk a walk around, which basically, we had nothing much to buy except venturing into a familiar shop called Popular Book Store. Bought some fengshui books because they were like cheaper than what Singapore could offer. Then we head back and got ready for dinner, which apparently my relatives there reserved for yet another round of great food. I dined in that restaurant like 4 years back, and it still serves great food with good service standards.
Then we had a surprise birthday celebration catered for my grandaunt! And it’s really heartwarming to know that because my aunts and uncle did this like how we are doing it for friends in a birthday party or celebration. Sweet eh. =)
Day 3 – 0920H
It didn’t had to be that early like the previous day, so we woke up a little later, and head down to the Big Market of Seremban to have breakfast that is so cheap and good. Even the coffee they made was so thick and nice. I had like a plate of Sotong Bee Hoon and a plate of Char Siew Wanton Mee. And we shopped for fruits and vegetables. Still the wet market I reminisce in Teban Gardens last time, the market itself is practically wet and a little dirty all around, but that’s what I have expected, and it feels like the old times all over again.
Day 3 – 1353H
Going home was a bit saddening, because I never wanted to leave this place. This is my take-away from this eye opening trip.
- My relatives are somehow humble, kind and heartwarming. It’s really nice to know that people like them still exist and it exist in Malaysia, of all places I expected. And it brings me to shame on how Singaporeans are so fortunate to be around. It also make me feel ashamed that we should all learn the proper ways of being human all over again.
- Going back in time, I learnt all over again to bathe in cold water with a pipe above my head, and I had to shit and pee in a toilet bowl that doesn’t flush. I had to tahan with fan and mosquitoes every night, and I had to dwell in the dark as sometimes there wasn’t light.
- It goes to show how important burial of the dead is to future generations down the road, because without a proper burial, there is no peace for the dead, and it goes to show how respectful you are to them.
- The time when my great-grandparents bones were dug out, my grandaunt saw and broke down and cry. A woman, so old in her age, still has tears and fond memories left to share and tear, and I feel quite pitiful because it’s her mother after all. But we had to console her a little, as it is so long ago since she passed away. It’s a sad sight, but a grief to remember.
- Though the food is cheap, it goes to show that even with the slightest amount of content they possess, it counts as a real blessing to them as it is not about how satisfying or worthy the food is but how full can the food make you feel. When we went to the restaurant, my relatives were like so well-dressed that it made it like we are attending a wedding. Contentment.
- It’s a sad day for us sometimes, but I also learn to put the past aside and face the future with open arms, and that we know we ultimately can’t run away from a problem, but more so that we could stick and fight to the very end. Determination is what we lack. And the right attitude to approach a situation lies so clearly drawn in the working world these days.
I’m glad that I’m back home though, but I’m glad that I bring home a valuable answer to unanswered questions back home. I guess it’s a very great eye-opening trip for me. =)
Carrots and Fishfood
02 Aug 2010 Leave a Comment
in colour, dad, family, food, Friends, history, hobbies, inspiration, interest, Just Updates, life, money, mood, pets, photography, reflections, singapore, whatever
Today while dumbing the remains of my meal into the dustbin, I came across a carrot head cut and thrown away, missing the bin somehow when it’s like only 30cm away from the sink (-_-”) and then I had to pick it up to throw. I bet it must be my mum. But then again, that’s not the point as when I picked the carrot head up, it brought me back to times when Aishita (our family pet rabbit) is still living and lazing around at it’s cage.
It loved carrots and french beans. And my mother will make it a point that whenever she is cooking carrots or french beans for the day, she will leave the head and probably some remaining french beans for that bunny to eat. And it was a joy because it knew whenever we will going near with a bowl of vegetables, she will jump up with excitement and then start demanding for it. Greedy, but that cute furball never fails to make us smile.
But well, it’s gone.
My dad used to keep fishes and still rearing some. Back then, I realised that he had like 7 to 8 blood parrot fishes. Then since, unfortunately the tanks that he came across to utilise were leaking and had no choice but to change them. But every time he changed one tank, one or two fishes will die. Up till today, only 2 survived, but looking pale and kinda bad in condition. But my dad still decides to keep them, apparently in a container. Sadly my dad’s been busy at work and stuff like that but there’s one good point about him and that he – no matter what living thing is that – will still make the effort even at his loss or sacrifice to keep it alive.
And I admire that character because it is pure sincerity. And it’s also the reason why I’m still walking on this earth healthy and fine. Without that amount of sacrifice, I won’t be here today. Then again, I would say that I pray for the fish to survive till my dad gets a better tank. Or at least find the time to release it to waters where it will be dangerous but much more freedom for it to enjoy.
Emotional pets aside, seems that tomorrow will be battlefront day as all of them were clearing off today. Tomorrow is meeting day and I’m sure gonna get buttered left right centre. Maybe additional kaya still. Then again, at this crucial point of time, they take away my monitor at my office for repairs when the annual audit check is coming in September. Fuck my life no?
This is bad counterproductive work behaviour. And I don’t like it.
Anyways, some photos that were taken from the past few months of late. Most can be found on Facebook. =)
Big Walk 2010 with family and Geokie and Zai! =)
Food Spree with Colin and Annice! There was more food. Just lesser pictures. Haha! =)
Marina Bay Sands and World Cup Finals! Epic Tiredness. Haha. =)
One day I decided to cook maggi mee when I was dead hungry.
Singapore International Jewellery Show 2010 at Marina Bay Sands with Xueli! Only Models Sadly. Haha. =)
Thanks for looking babe. Haha.
I heard that during the Singapore International Jewellery Show, 2 China nationals went there to rob and steal a pair of diamond earrings I think. And it’s of $10000 in value. One went to distract the salesperson after he took out the diamonds and the other just grabbed and go. And the security guard just felt that they were suspicious and gave chase. Haha. You think Singapore security guard dumb one ah. I think sometimes some security guards are respectable for their attitude at work. *Salutes*
Will blog more soon!
Sigh.
21 Jun 2010 1 Comment
in family, inspiration, interest, Just Updates, life, love, mood
Suddenly I’m feeling down. I don’t know why.
I don’t think I can sleep well tonight. Sigh.
Pen Down Your Thoughts.
14 Jun 2010 Leave a Comment
in family, Friends, history, humour, inspiration, interest, Just Updates, life, love, money, rant, reflections, singapore, whatever
Probably the photo has no meaning to the title. But then again, it caught me thinking for awhile. Like, after I sat down and thought it through, I realised that maybe this will be quite fun. At the same time at least I know who’s reading this blog. Haha.
Now, readers – if any – I would really like to seek your kind “attention” to actually think back like in history or in the past. The question I pose is simple – What is the most memorable thing that you spent your time while with me around? As in, what can you remember of when we hang out together as a group or what have you. I don’t know, why don’t you tell me?
This, I thought, would provoke some brain juice and at the same time, bring back fond memories, or maybe bad ones. Then again, if there are any times that I have done wrong, sorry seems to be the hardest word. But I will apologise. Good times, let it be good ones indeed.
So, pen down your thoughts in my comment box below! Or simply just msn/twitter/facebook msg/sms/whatsapp/email me if you can! Or if you want to. Hope to hear from anyone of you soon! =)
No Sacrifice, No Victory.
Oh, That Familiar Earphones.
16 May 2010 Leave a Comment
in death, family, food, Friends, hobbies, holiday, inspiration, interest, Just Updates, life, love, mood, reflections, singapore, whatever
Today, for the first time since I lost my earphones, I manage to put 2 soundwave-projecting studs into my ears and reserve the right to be anti-social for an hour, listening to some of my favourite tunes while dad drives towards the hospital to visit my grandma. Her condition is, well – bad – so to speak. Not only she forgets, now she sees dead people. And just not too long ago, she spoke about HER FUNERAL with my cousins who were visiting her. Sigh. Why Grandma, Why?
Then again, I really wished for the best for her. So my whole Sunday today was dedicated solely to assist my grandma in whatever aspects possible. After the visit, the whole of our family head down to my Grandma’s place to clear up whatever stuff that she has that she doesn’t need. You know, old people tend to have much more sentiments than we do, though we do appreciate those sentiments, but not on stuff that they do not need and still bear a some sentimental value to the elderly themselves. So we had to clear whatever we can. My grandpa could just sit there and watch. Though you can see the reluctance, but he still shrugs it off and laughs and some stuff that he doesn’t need.
So, cockroaches were basically dead and some still trying to live. So many things, it’s not even a livable condition for the cockroaches as well. Some antique stuff, many ricecookers, many tupperware containers and so much more food and beverages. I wonder what they have kept in there for so long. Probably because my grandma owns the kitchen even more, which explains the surmountable items that they have in the kitchen. It never stops growing though. But we had to act before it piles higher than Mount Fuji.
Yet again, there are many things I would like to do now. If I can, I will probably give my time for my grandma. Help to pack her house whenever I can. And today, we probably only did the kitchen. That explains how many things she has inside that small 2 room flat.
Next, I would like to clear my damn email in camp. I think by now I should have more than 200. Or maybe more. I can’t be bothered for now. Because the course is also not as easy as it seems. It’s stupid, but yet ironic, that I’m rejected by NTU but yet again I’m on a course that is held by a joint-venture thingy by the SAF and NTU. Whacked up university. Probably they are more interested in foreign talents. Never mind, I shall go and try and study for some direct honours somewhere.
Lastly, I will need to head down to Lot 1 or at least some travel agencies that can give me some offers on trips to Batam or something. Or at least a Taiwan, Japan, Bintan or Mauritius trip. The Maldives one…. I will save it for my wife – if I have one when the time comes. But at the meantime, seafood is the main concern. And Batam would probably be the place to go. Now it is the concern of the dates. Shucks. June holidays are always the pocket killers.
I need some distraction. Ohh, beautiful release.
Some photos during the clean up.
Will update soon! =)
A Damn Good Guide
08 May 2010 Leave a Comment
in family, Friends, health, history, hobbies, inspiration, interest, Just Updates, life, love, mood, reflections, sleep, whatever
While I drift into the wee hours of the night, I stumbled upon something useful and meaningful to follow. I guess we could all use this as some sort of a guide to life. Nice implementation though. As much as I would love to follow too. Heh. Good night world, enjoy this guide that I found. Thanks Hanyi for sharing!
———————————————————————————————————-
Health
1. Drink plenty of water.
2. Eat breakfast like a king, lunch like a prince and dinner like a beggar.
3. Eat more foods that grow on trees and plants and eat less food that is manufactured in plants.
4. Live with the 3 E’s — Energy, Enthusiasm and Empathy.
5. Make time to pray.
6. Play more games.
7. Read more books than you did in 2009 .
8. Sit in silence for at least 10 minutes each day.
9. Sleep for 7 hours.
10. Take a 10-30 minutes walk daily. And while you walk, smile.
Personality
11. Don’t compare your life to others. You have no idea what their journey is all about.
12. Don’t have negative thoughts or things you cannot control.
Instead invest your energy in the positive present moment.
13. Don’t over do. Keep your limits.
14. Don’t take yourself so seriously. No one else does.
15. Don’t waste your precious energy on gossip.
16. Dream more while you are awake.
17. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.
18. Forget issues of the past.
Don’t remind your partner with his/her mistakes of the past.
That will ruin your present happiness.
19. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone. Don’t hate others.
20. Make peace with your past so it won’t spoil the present.
21. No one is in charge of your happiness except you.
22. Realize that life is a school and you are here to learn.
Problems are simply part of the curriculum that appear and fade away like algebra
class but the lessons you learn will last a lifetime.
23. Smile and laugh more.
24. You don’t have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.
Society
25. Call your family often.
26. Each day give something good to others.
27. Forgive everyone for everything..
28. Spend time with people over the age of 70 & under the age of 6.
29. Try to make at least three people smile each day.
30. What other people think of you is none of your business.
31. Your job won’t take care of you when you are sick. Your friends will. Stay in touch.
Life
32. Do the right thing!
33. Get rid of anything that isn’t useful, beautiful or joyful.
34. GOD heals everything.
35. However good or bad a situation is, it will change..
36. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up.
37. The best is yet to come.
38. When you awake alive in the morning, thank GOD for it.
39. Your Inner most is always happy. So, be happy.
Date Night
03 May 2010 Leave a Comment
in action, car, family, fighting, hobbies, humour, interest, Just Updates, life, love, mood, Reviews of Movies, whatever
The plot – Claire and Phil Foster (Tina Fey and Steve Carell) are a suburban couple slogging through their daily lives and marriage. Even their ‘date nights’ of dinner and a movie have become routine. To reignite the marital spark, they visit a trendy Manhattan bistro, where a case of mistaken identity hurtles them through the city at breakneck speeds, into non-stop adventure. Remembering what made them so special together, Phil and Claire take on a couple of corrupt cops, a top-level mobster – and a crazed cabbie – as their date becomes a night they’ll never forget.
Seriously, I came out filling full in my stomach because I LAUGHED TOO MUCH. Haha.
This show is explicitly hilarious to the point of no return. I don’t know what to say though, but it’s like watching Steve Carrell in Get Smart, minus the agent show-being. His acting, together with fellow legendary comedian Tina Fey, works so well that probably they should consider having another show together.
Though it is stated PG, please do not bring your kids along. They just do not know what they are expecting to watch. But it’s really really humourous to hear corny and lameness humour all over again. I haven’t had a good laugh since. Perhaps the minus point from this movie is that I feel there isn’t much impact from what I have watched so far. Frankly I did laugh a lot, like really a lot since, but I just felt that the movie didn’t had a strong impression after that, though I can still remember a little of it. Haha.
Nonetheless, I felt that it is a great movie. So much stress from work, I guess you should go watch this movie. Let free all your minds and get dumb awhile, because the 2 of them will be more dumb than you think they would be. =D
Ratings – 3 and a half out of 5 stars.
Ip Man 2
03 May 2010 Leave a Comment
in action, death, family, fighting, history, humour, inspiration, interest, Just Updates, life, love, mood, Reviews of Movies, whatever
The plot – In this sequel, Ip Man (Donnie Yen) arrives in Hong Kong in 1949, only to discover that martial arts schools there operated like triads rather than more respectable institutions. His efforts to teach his Wing Chun discipline is fraught with poverty and meets resistance from Master Hung (Sammo Hung), a fellow kungfu master who runs a fish market and is being bullied by the British authorities. However, he takes solace in his bright student Leung (Chen Dao Ming) and his loving, patient wife (Lynn Hung @ Xiong Dai Lin). As conflicts brew and tempers flare, an English boxing champ (Darren Shahlavi) insults the Chinese and challenges the whole establishment to an East vs. West showdown, leaving Master Hung and Master Ip to find themselves possible allies.
Watching this movie is like sitting on the fence between Greed and Values. Like whether fighting and winning is more important than spending precious time with your family.
The direction was perfect, storyline was so good that I’m speechless. Donnie Yen – forever with that expressionless face no matter how hard he tries to smile – still does the perfect job as Ip Man, the legendary kungfu master of Bruce Lee. And that he still doesn’t change, his cold expression accompanied with his righteous and humble attitude towards things in life.
The show not only possess qualities of chinese martial arts but it inculcates certain moral values and lessons to learn in life. Watching the movie did moved me somehow. I guess it is carved to our hearts that we all should probably learn to be someone as noble but yet as gracious and humble as Ip Man in real person. Respectable yet reputable.
Overall, it’s full points for me. Give me another choice and probably I will want to catch this movie. Too good.
Ratings – 5 out of 5 stars
Many Drifts.
23 Mar 2010 Leave a Comment
in family, Friends, hobbies, inspiration, interest, Just Updates, life, love, mood, reflections, whatever
You know, it’s hard to say but I can tell that many things and many people are drifting away. And suddenly it feels like everything’s getting back to square one.
Recently I got a quote from some day to day luck astrological shit that I conveniently apply on Facebook and it mentioned on one of those days that seem to be quiet and moody for me. Stating in a sentence like this :” Today, you need to consider getting back into an active role in your social life. “. Totally sat back and told myself – hey, maybe that’s what I haven’t been doing. Which means… Organising outings, photoshoots, mingling with anyone/everyone.
But everything’s so subjective. Everyone’s busy with their work or school that probably do not possess the amount of free time to meet up with someone like me. It’s a tough fact that no one can run away from though. As much as I need company (that’s me, I’m a sticker.), I don’t get them as much. Haha. I think most people are sick of me being around already.
I take my chances and maybe I haven’t taken them well enough at times. I do admit that I’m a bit of a sucker for outings and that I have always wanted to go out. Hardly stay at home, that’s what I’m usually up to. But I found many reasons that probably I should stay at home, and that probably because there’s not much people who are free to be out. Wrong time, wrong space. Oh wells.
And that things don’t always seem as simple as it is. Why the title of this post then? I’ve hardly explained many at times in English the meaning of life and this title wouldn’t be the first. As much as I want to fulfill my living days, I look around and slowly map out my path to achievements. Slowly but surely. And I’m on my way to believing again. What a start to 2010 eh. I guess things are picking up slowly even though I at focal point, I don’t foresee much changes.
Now I know why they say signing on isn’t sometimes a very good thing after all. I lose my social life. Like 50% of it. Quite sad huh. And you gain a big circle of “social” life in the base or camp or whatever you call it. Monday to Friday you see these people faces, and probably you can go and be cohesive for 24/7. Then you will know what is the meaning of “sick of it”. Lol. Which is why I don’t really like to spend much time in camp. I will always be dragged into work and probably don’t know what time it is till I look at my watch or if the lights and computers go shutting down in front of my perpetually shocked face.
I guess we do sometimes need some words like this to wake up our silly ideas and face reality sometimes. That relates much to me because I used to complain a lot and probably whine over the smallest things. And I guess I have to count my blessings and be happy and contented with what I have ahead of me. Though it’s a long road and a journey, I will make every second in my life worthwhile, just for myself to be happy. Whoever that joins me along the way will benefit too though. =D
I was once taught that frowning really does brings one mood down. Everyday, you need to cultivate a small habit by making your mouth muscles into a straight line instead of letting it “sag” down. Go on and try it and hold it there. You will find it real hard to be angry or sad. Because what it takes is just that small effort, enough to make your day much brighter than you think it is. Mindsets will change, moods will tide over, attitudes will be better. =)
So…
Try smiling, you will never know how much joy you have brought to others as well as yourself! Because we all know that it isn’t the end of the world. And you know that your friends and your close ones are always there to help and assist you in anyways possible. To be there for you, to be there to comfort you. And that when you smile, you know that everyone’s heart will be at ease. And that soon, you will find yourself with lots of energy and happiness!
Smile, for the world is always there for you.
Some Hits and Misses
21 Mar 2010 Leave a Comment
in family, Friends, hobbies, inspiration, interest, Just Updates, life, love, photography, singapore, whatever
Haven’t been making my blog colourful recently. Now’s the time. Before the Man Utd and Liverpool match begin, let me post some photos that probably might do just good. =)
Morning breakfast at Prive. Smile for the win! =))
Hort Park was next.
And shots that I have been missing out for so long. =)
Heh. =)
Missing times like these. It’s been a long time since I took all my cameras out for a short walk.
Then Mel left for Aussie again. Will drop by whenever I can! =D
Grandmum’s Birthday!
And we have our grandma’s 82nd birthday!
Time to bring out my cameras. Shoot those sorrows away.
Percy Jackson & The Lightning Thief
06 Mar 2010 Leave a Comment
in action, earth, family, Friends, history, inspiration, interest, Just Updates, life, motion, Reviews of Movies, whatever
The plot – Trouble-prone teen Percy Jackson is about to be kicked out of school but that’s the least of his problems. The gods of Mount Olympus and other assorted monsters seem to have walked out of the pages of Percy’s Greek mythology texts and into his life and they’re not happy. Zeus’ lightning bolt has been stolen and Percy is the prime suspect. Now, Percy and his friends must embark on a cross-country adventure to catch the true thief, save Percy’s mother, and unravel a mystery more powerful than the gods themselves.
After much hype over this show, I decided to catch it with my own gut feeling that it might be good. And guess what? Maybe it still has it’s flaws after all. Well, not all movies are perfect, and that this movie ain’t perfect either. But I can tell you one thing is that this movie kinda got me into my seat somehow.
But the only thing I would want to critic on is that some of the new young blood acting in there aren’t as good as what I would have thought of, unlike Harry Potter and his whole chin gang of wizardry. Still, the CGI is not as bad as it seems. Besides, if you wanna talk about understanding the movie in a bit, yes, I would say that even a small kid would understand the movie even if he had not read the storybook. I’m one of the kids by the way. =D
Like a flaw, that’s the flaw. Because it’s kinda predictable and some parts and that it’s too simple and naive a story that probably the kids will get more interested than the adults. But it’s the action packed ever-moving story that keeps our eyes glued to the screens. It’s like reading a story book. But a kids one. And it spells cheesy sometimes.
I reckoned that you would take a chance at this show. For 2 reasons. One, if you are into wizardry and more “godlike” action stories. Two, if you have a choice between Wolfman and this. Go figure. =)
Ratings – 3 and a half out of 5 stars
CNY 2010 Day 1
15 Feb 2010 Leave a Comment
in Chinese New Year, cousins, family, hobbies, inspiration, interest, Just Updates, life, love, photography, singapore, whatever
Some photos of yesterday’s get together with the cousins. =D
More photos on Facebook. =)
This first day of Chinese New Year is like good old times, getting back together to celebrate and catch up with everyone. But I guess it feels different this year. Then again, putting all sorrows aside, I guess that’s what matters the most right now.
In time of test, family is the best. - Xueli
Difficulties.
04 Jan 2010 2 Comments
in colour, cousins, family, food, Friends, gifts, hobbies, humour, inspiration, interest, Just Updates, life, love, mood, photography, reflections, singapore, The Noble Nine, town, whatever
You know, it’s really really hard to think positive. And I believe it’s the same as that saying that says that people won’t remember the goods that you do but the bads that you have done. Well, negativity is what clouds most of us, probably the same amount as what I have. Only the determined ones are those with the positive and “never-say-die” mindset.
Today, I put myself through a gruelling 12 hours or work at the office, clearing all the shit that I can clear. Manage to do many, with not much confidence because everything in my job as days go by becomes something new. But what can I do? Sometimes I wonder if the shit is ever mine to clear. Then again, if I don’t do, I will get into trouble. So what can I do? Probably my job now is to clear shit of the past. And if I clear it well and clean, then probably I will be recognised. But I doubt that is such the case in government jobs.
I surprisingly refrained myself so much more to log into facebook and twitter for today. I think I didn’t log on as many times I did in previous occasions. Quite impressed with that, but still, I’m trying so hard to segregate myself from the world because I feel that I should take a break from everything. The holiday did justice, but wasn’t enough. This ain’t humble greed. But I guess I could do with silence for awhile. So mind me but I probably will only blog and not Facebook talk for the moment. Will only be contactable if I’m contactable.
2010 has so far been quite shitty because of the first day of work. And that this first day seemed to be like any other day that is quite shitty at work. But still, reaching home is a blessing. I hope tomorrow will be a little earlier of sorts. But I doubt that is the case because I have tons of more shit to clear. Not mine though. But left behind by what I know as people who do not do their work well enough.
Now, pictures to sum up my 2009. Here goes.
Warning – a post that is too long to remember, but too long to forget.
CNY – this was taken when we always have this standard issue of visiting this granduncle of ours first. This is when we all really gather together for a photo taking session, EVERY YEAR, same area of phototaking. Totally brings back many fun memories. =)
Our home steamboat. Apparently we always eat healthy, but always full to the point that sometimes I wonder why I became fat. Pork, prawns, abalone, fish, chicken, quail eggs, vegetables, sausages etc. Totally love it!
This was taken when we did a night CNY visit to Bren and Bert’s “mansion” apparently we did many stupid things like playing blackjack with 5 cents? LOL. And we probably did some photoshoot and stuff like that. Oh well.
I became bad after that bad experience with her. So what happened is that I went sisha for the first time. Of course, I won’t post the photo here. But then, it was a fantastic experience. Not always a regular thing. Perhaps just for fun. Warning, it’s unhealthy as you all will know.
Then came girlgirl’s birthday. Memories unfold as we all did our crankiness well by playing… in the wardrobe. Of course, those were one of the best group photos taken. Totally fun. A great place with a great night stay indeed. P.S. Geoks, you say want to take photo with me on your birthday also never happened in the end. LOL.
Then came the green laterns. We headed to IKEA after a streak of boring days. Of course, we didn’t waste much time in dwelling, but wasted much time on the kids section. Like what we are above.
Then the picnic after the birthday. Muq made great tasty muffins for all. Fully chocolate, it’s really really rich in chocolate fudge. Totally dig that for sure. With almost full attendance, the picnic was a success, minus the rain, but positively, we picnicked for the first time as a huge group. Kudos to all!
And yes, my birthday. I still look rather weird that day. Oh well. But I loved the fisheye camera. Thanks Nobles! <3
Of course, how could we forget April without Qing Ming Festival? Another usual practise with my family members and relatives. Visited the big grave at Mt Pleasant in a Bus. Then phototaking as if we really have all the time in the world. The laughters. The ancestors. The rain. The fun. Totally fun.
A bad day for girlgirl ended up in smiles when 4 guys and a girl decided to head to T3 to become the most crazy group of people ever. I wonder why we even did ballerina and ninja poses.
After much effort almost into midnight, I fixed up my photos and this huge piece of A0 Photo at Liquids Cafe itself. Displaying there with such huge aura is that sunset picture taken many years back. Amazingly, it still stands out somehow. Of course, it’s for sale. Any takers?
It was Sentosa with WJ one day. And it really brings back so much memories of a child, where I felt that the moving belt around that tank was quite a fun experience. Of course, everyone grows up, and I realise Underwater world is a small peasy place. Can’t compare, but the reminisce of times like these does help bring back smiles in the heart.
We headed to the Henderson Ridges after the exploration session at the Railway itself. The boardwalk was definitely tiring, with Suban having cramps on both legs on the first slope of the walk. But still, he made it with the rest of us nonetheless. Great job brother!
Well, how could we have forgotten that RAWR-ing bread. I brought it along for a trip that probably is it’s first and it’s last. But fun nonetheless. =))
Got a free entry to the Aquarama exhibition at Suntec thanks to a guy who decided to give his tickets away to no one else but me. Totally amazed by the exotic fishes and beautiful aquariums in there. Nice.
Enough said. 5 folds. Enough money. Overkill.
Steamboat at David’s place. Had an impromptu dinner there with loads of food and a greatly done soup courtesy of Suban. Definitely, we had so much food that probably couldn’t make us sinfully sit down and watch tv all the while. Definitely a great time to catch up. and enjoy for sure!
The two rascals that can’t seem to stop bothering me for a minute. Then again, they are just adorable kids that disturb the peace in the house. The girl’s gone to AMK, leaving the boy alone…. to create more disturbance. Irritating. But just damn cute no?
One of the days of work when it was quite boring. My dad brought me over to learn how to overhaul not one but two car engines. It’s definitely a tiring job. But it was worth learning that damn experience.
Coffee Club’s Mudpie still owns sometimes. Had a night out a Clarke Quay with most of the guys from the Nobles. Fantastic catch up with David and Colin being disturbed time and time again. Amazing fun day indeed. Can’t stop laughing as well!
Another day out, with Eugene joining us. Definitely another day of phototaking for sure. =)
During the first week of August, my aunt celebrated her 60th birthday. And boy was it a big one. Check out the family members and relatives there and you see why. Even the last row had to stand on the chairs. Not enough space! Even I’m stuck at the back.,
Another impromptu outing again. I can’t remember much from this, but I’m pretty sure we sat down and Starbucks and McDonalds.
After a day out, we decided to crash KPO in the evening for some ice cream and sorbet. And boy were we happy people after that. The sorbet was quite way above my expectations. Though the place has total coolness in their interior designs, the sorbet was the one that rocked my socks off for sure.
Joyce’s birthday was one of the highlights because I covered her birthday party photos. But it was the food somehow that keeps me eating non-stop. Probably it’s the price that she pays that makes it so tasty. Overall a great party as well as great catch up. I hate the stayover part though.
An impromptu trip to Jurong Hill one night after Al Azhar was the time to really reflect so much in life. I guess the strong wind and the great company did help. =)
I loved the series of this edits because of it’s blurry effect but it was times like these that we decide to sit down and chill. Good old times my friends, good old times.
One boring night when we were bored and didn’t know where to explore, we ended up in the east. But still, this didn’t stop Colin from being funny as always. Never fail to entertain Mr Foo, keep it up! Haha.
Then came Gilbert’s birthday. Tell me, isn’t this picture lovely? Cafe Cappadocia was great, then we went Giraffe to slack, and Zainal and David left early, but still, it was a good night out for all. French Fries was key.
And how can I ever forget when the KOP came to Singapore? Sang my lungs out, lost my voice, did the Kallang Wave in so many years time, wave scarfs as if I was at Liverpool, it was an unforgettable evening. Totally love this match for sure. 5 – 0 thrashing yo. But then again, we gotta give credits to the Singapore team as well.
AYG. Media Boat. Photos on Straits Times and various newspapers and website. What more can I ask for?
Impromptu Sentosa outing with the cousins. It’s time like these that you realise how close can the family get. Sometimes I just gotta take time off and spend it with them.
The First exploration with a large group… to 15 minutes… to order $20 worth of fries… and get scared of it… That’s why Colin has a huge *ahem*. LOL.
Dad’s birthday at Astons. It was my treat. LOL. But I couldn’t help it because I got my first pay. And I felt it was right of me to do so. So I did what I had to do. At least everyone enjoyed their meal. =D
After Colin’s birthday celebration, Mount Faber was probably the only place that we can think of, so it was cam-whoring time as usual, with that ballerina pose surfacing from don’t know whose mind, and then having more fun shots like these. Friends are still the fun ones to be with somehow. Haha.
Right, Colin’s Birthday. I mean, this is the start of Coke’s revolutionarised birthday cards. I mean, Xueli did received one of her own recently for her birthday. I think Zai and Muq did received them too. LOL. But it’s the thought that counts. Great handicraft! Credits go to Coke. =P
Remember Suban’s atas birthday place? Who could have asked for more? I’m pretty sure that the place is still as pretty. Manage to meet up with Wayne that day as he was the lifeguard. Small world, but can’t find time to talk cock with him. Then again, Suban’s birthday was definitely all planned up. At least he enjoyed. And at least he had fun. And all of us being silly in that birthday hat and mask. LOL.
Another impromptu outing. This time with Annice. In fact, it was the first and the last in 2009. LOL. She’s too busy to meet up with the rest, as usual.
Then came my long awaited Australia trip. A trip that probably I will never forget because Qantas gave me the worst experience ever. TV on plane spoilt, baggage delay, missed flight, stuck at Brisbane for 9 hours, only to reach Adelaide after that, and then flight delay on the way back. Kills my mood somehow. But I still love Adelaide. The weather, the peace, the relaxing pace of life there. This year. One more time. If not, Europe.
My 2nd wedding photoshoot in my lifetime. The couple had a simple wedding but of course, for every wedding comes with memories in pictures, and I was quite eager to shoot with determination spurning me on most of the time. I hope I didn’t ruin anything for them. But after this experience, I know how a traditional wedding goes as well as learning points taken.
Yes, and full attendance came. Come on, we hardly have the chance to meet, and just at the right time, on Muqsit’s 24th, everyone appeared. Amazingly. A great group outing with lots of laughter and cheers. And paranormal activity.
The first discovery of One Rochester for us. Amazed by their interiors and ambience, we probably didn’t know that the place was that expensive. But still, we loved the dessert. Fine apple and frangipane tart is still my all time over there. Somehow. Haha.
The first time discovery of Silvery Moon at Pasir Ris Park. Topshells were the tastiest somehow. Of course, accompanied with great ambience, we did had a great time slacking there, apparently because the seats were damn comfortable for me. LOL. Well, nothing beats the company sometimes. =D
Then mum and Andrea’s birthday came. 1 day apart, both of them usually celebrate their birthday together, like how me and Nat celebrated together when we were young, but people can tell that it is 9 days apart. Zzzz. But still, that night we had great Hokkien cuisine with a tasty cake for dessert!
The first discovery of Moonstone. Then again, subsequent visits made it more memorable because of it’s Xmas lighting as well as a relatively worthy liveband to patronise in the future. Saturdays are great days there. And once they remove the canvas shelter above you, a clear sky greets you, and the stars are just within your vision. Fantastic eh.
My First Interior Shoot. Totally stitch it up. And it looks like this. Makes me wanna have a house.
One night when we were bored, Barrage seems like a place to go. And fun usually follows. I forgotten what the game was all about, but I know the both of them were laughing out loud most of the time. Haha!
Well, what’s fun without having fun with toys?
And what’s love without experimenting? Then again, this two shoots were done on a random note. But it was worth it. At least it represents something.
And on a night that was supposingly happy, I guess this picture did sum up most of our mood. Probably on the opposite end, I was quiet that day. Didn’t speak much. But that’s what’s happening to me these days. Probably I shouldn’t talk to much. Oh well.
And so the season to be jolly arrived, where all of us stayed so long to enjoy the little things in life. Though most of them left early, this party was one party never to forget. Great presents exchanged, great food, great music, great photos. Apparently it was totally awesome. =))
To sum up 2009, I guess it was company like these that makes life so much more fun and less-stressful. New year’s day was a one to remember as well, though we had much time to individual selves. But still, it was fun though.
Now let’s hope that the ushering of 2010 be a good, if not great one. Doesn’t sound right for me now, but hopefully things will fall in place.
Time to go. Time to let go.
Bodyguards and Assassins
26 Dec 2009 Leave a Comment
in action, death, family, history, hobbies, interest, Just Updates, life, Reviews of Movies, street, whatever
The Plot – “Bodyguards And Assassins” concerns efforts by a group of martial artists to protect Dr. Sun Yat-sen who is popularly referred as the Father of Modern China, from an assassination attempt while visiting Hong Kong to raise funds at the beginning of the 20th century.
Deemed fit to be screened, this movie shows what people with patriotic hearts can do. In fact, the star studded cast of this movie is so wide and huge that sometimes I wonder how do you fit so many stars in to one movie. Well, this movie worked well and it surpassed my expectations for a movie that proves to be sad but true.
Well, direction was fantastic, with some action packed fight scenes courtesy of your kungfu master Donnie Yen together with a few other elites like Leon Lai, who single handedly eliminates like probably a hundred men. Apparently the whole show doesn’t really focus on Donnie Yen, whom some other viewers might feel that this movie revolves around him. But I would say that for this movie, everyone and every equal actor and actress have their fair share of air time and role time.
Best of all, their acting still never fails to impress me somehow.
In all, it touched my heart to see people fight and put their lives in the line to protect someone that they do not even know, and that by protecting Sun Yat Sen, they can change the course of the future for China. Indeed, a fantastic movie that fulfills my attempt to catch a movie in a long time. =)
Ratings – 5 out of 5 stars
P.S – Mandarin movie posters are so hard to find. Apologies. =(
A Normal Story
16 Nov 2009 Leave a Comment
in family, Friends, hobbies, inspiration, interest, Just Updates, life, love, mood, rant, reflections, singapore, whatever
Today, I woke up to find that I made myself breakfast. 2 soft boiled eggs accompanied with white bread and a cup of tea. I was happy yet I was filled with that sense of achievement.
I took my dad’s car and drove it to work. Knowing that my beloved yellow one went through the knife to be better, I had to take my dad’s car. Filled with power, but yet it’s a different feel to what it used to be like with the other. Clutch was easy on me, gear changing couldn’t be much easier, but driving a bigger car isn’t my style.
Whereas in my beloved yellow, I’m contended that I have that ample space in the back of my car, ample space to put my CDs and sunglasses. I’m happy that my beloved yellow didn’t give me much problems, and I’m also glad that my driving habits have improved to keep the car going as far with the best amount of petrol consumption achieved.
Then bad news went to worse when my brake fluid’s leaking, my dry shaft is wearing out, my brake is gone etc. Sigh. If only I could be a better person to drive that car. Felt so worthless at one point. Then again, I’m determine to be a better driver. Of course, I don’t want to let my beloved yellow one die on me.
I have countless times that I felt that the sentimental value is building up on this car, and I couldn’t help but why the sense of urgency to know about it’s condition is more than just what it’s suppose to be. Everyone might think – yea, it’s just car, get over it. – But I will ask one question: “What if you have your own car and all these happens to it?” It’s like your wife or your child getting struck with pneumonia, or fever, or if worse, any terminal illness. Won’t you feel even worried about it?
I’m willing to do anything for that car. Ok, not to the point that I lose my job and go crazy just because of a car, but at least make these 2 years a worthwhile for me to spend time with my car. This is the problem in Singapore, you buy a car, with a 10 year COE, which means you are liable to use your car for 10 years. It’s like having someone for 10 years and losing it to god’s will. What can I do about it? In fact, having a car in Singapore is a liability, and after putting so much to maintain your car for 10 years, only to see it go, it’s a sad thing for sure.
All I wanted was to make this car my worthwhile transport. My reliable mode of movement. Isn’t something simple that hard to ask for?
Anyways, the morale of the story is – Don’t start cherishing something/someone when it’s gone.
Take time to think who has been the best to you, be it your family, your friends, etc. And start loving them more than ever. Because you will never know when they part away from you.
*gone*
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