Hopes & Fears

I hope he's good up there...

2007-08-08T16:27:00.000+08:00

Eulogy to Grandpa
Delivered on 8 August 2007

My deepest regret after hearing of his passing away was not being able to speak Cantonese and communicating with him while he was alive. The only few words that I spoke to him in Cantonese was “lei ho mo”. To him, it may be sufficient. But to me, I felt I could have done more. Throughout these years as I learned to appreciate him, our form of communication was more than just words. It’s his actions and gestures that showed me how loving he was as a husband, father and grandfather.

Just days after he was first discharged from the hospital, my grandfather made use of his time to spend a romantic day out with my grandma. Although he had difficulty walking, he brought her to Chinatown for their last afternoon tea session. This gentleman did everything he could till the last moment.

My grandmother is indeed the envy of every woman. Her husband was a legendary roast pork seller in Chinatown. He was a great cook; he did the house work and the dishes too. Yet he never complained of the difficulties and hardship he went through. To me he was a humble, simple and selfless man who did his best to bring his children up well.

I am definitely proud of grandpa. His passing is a loss to all of us here. But we have gained valuable lessons of life. Grandpa always told us to be kind to others, keep on trying and persevere. So let us always keep in mind his words of wisdom and carry on his legacy as we lead our lives.

Grandpa, I will always remember you.

Grooving home...

2007-06-24T14:51:00.000+08:00

I'm back! Actually back a week ago. Just too lazy to blog. My mind is still in LA. Ahhh.... the trip was awesome, mind-blowing, fabulous, and.... just too good to be true. Maybe this is just wad summer break is about. And being in Samba has really enriched me lots!

Other highlights include:

The SambaLá Masterclasses hosted by SambaLá's President and Music Director, David de Hilster
Our performance at the Blue Café
And not forgetting, our surprise invitation for a special guest appearance on Channel 34's morning show

Did i say we appeared on TV? Yes... US TV! Wad more can i ask for? Greatness!

Ok, the entire trip has made me better appreciate the friends i have around me. We became better bonded and closer as friends, buddies and bandmates. =)

And... skydiving was just a experience of a lifetime! No regrets even though it blew a big hole in my pocket. I finally did wad i always wanted to and this time, with 2 brave gals! haha. Love u all.

Yeap, I will post pictures soon. Cos i know it will take a freaking long time. Just be patient. Off now...

Samba-ed.

2007-05-25T01:02:00.000+08:00

Time files! So far, one freaking month has passed since holidays... ha. Now i realised i have been busy the whole of this so called break...

Started my "internship" right after exams ended. Kept me busy and occupied. But i really did learn lots of stuff that school doesn't teach! I have to salute my boss, who has nv failed to keep pushing me on, and keep me at my toes. I nv complained bout the hard work. But sometimes thinking bout all these work stuff, it scares me off a little. Im like not really prepared to take on such a role in future. All these while i have been living in extreme comfort... not realising the difficulties. Now, it's hard to change. For these, i have to thank Nav for his passion and enthusiasm. It motivates me...really.

As for TJ... nv knew i could play for the Alumini during Prelude. My schedule was sooo packed that i decided not to play at first. Sigh... felt so bad. Then i got a chance to visit the band one night, took some drum sticks and started to join in the practice. Who knows they were short of percussionist and i decided to utilise my samba talent. Wooo... Great first time experience! Enjoyed playing with the band once again... and love it too!

Samba was another driving force for me. I totally enjoyed the preparations for the LA trip. From the practices, to buskings and even gigs. The spirit is just so infectious. And i love the people there... Plus, Im really excited for the trip. And i wanna thank all the people, who supported our busking sessions, and also our performances.... ha. Your efforts are greatly appreciated!

Coming to the end of this, I would want to say sorry to Cheryl... for i gave up my time, almost all of it, to do what i wanted. I dunno how to explain myself also. But sorry. Sorry for all the unhappiness, and the things i said to u. Reflecting on the past, i know im wrong... and just to let u know, i still care for u.

Okay, let this trip be a safe one for me.... No bomb scare, no terrorists... And no campus massacre!

God Bless.

It's time

2007-04-21T17:14:00.000+08:00

Exams are over! And my life has started. And i think i havent really thought much of what i wanna do with the rest of my 4 months... Except that i am trying now to complete C&C 3.

I'm now busy with work. The next day after exams i reported for work. Ah. I need the money for LA. But i enjoy working - got to meet new pple. Like this South African guy, and some Japanese. They open up my mind to the world. I love PR! Ha... and whenever these pple come to town, I know i've got a feast. And booze too!

Samba's really warming up... and i must say we practice real hard. Our moves will definitely complement our already heart-thumping music. Now we need sponsors. Money is always the problem and solution. Wad irony. I hope we can reach our peak as the LA trip gets closer. ha.

Okie that's it for now. I got to go back to my game and of cos, plan to make use of idle time!

Forever 21+2

2007-03-08T01:08:00.000+08:00

Birthdays are fun!
I proved it.

Many many thanks to those that made it my day...
Cheryl, Ms Chew, Mavis, Zhihan, Yina, Van, Ho Chuan, Navin, Herbert, Dennes, Ryan, Samba Friends... many many others which I was too wasted to recall....

Of cos, Cheryl, Nav and gang, thanks for the lift home! And i really mean 'lift' ! Without u guys, the Loof would be leaking with puke. EEeeeew.

Nav, thanks for fighting that waiter. I'll get back to him again. Argh.

For your info... u guys drank a total of:

6 Asahi Jugs
1 Steady Pomme Pi Pi (wth is this? And who ordered it?)
1 Aloof Ice Tea
5 Long Island Jug
2 Vodka Jug

2007-03-01T00:29:00.000+08:00

It’s out with the old, and ushering in the new. So is out with school, and indulging in fun! Another terrifying and overwhelming period of school. Argh. Im almost drained off my energy. Well, many many many events took place which I cant possibly narrate all here. Ha… so just some highlights!

1. We trotted down to the National Stadium to rally the Lions. The atmosphere was electrifying and hair-raising. It did evoke some nostalgic emotions in me though… the crowd certainly gave the best show of national pride and patriotism! The cool evening air certainly did not bring about cool heads among the spectators! Swear words and crude vocabs filled the stadium as uncles blabbered profusely. The Kallang Wave made the stadium alive once again. All these made a truly enjoyable and eye-opening experience for us!

2 14 Feb was the day again. Nothing much this year round. I was buried in work that we didn’t really create such a big hoo-hah compared to the past. Hai…

3. V-Day was also a day I got Ryl-Che! That’s the name for this eye-catching babe! Wooo-hooo… Look at her sleek body lines, sporty looks and figure, bright shining eyes… It goes from 0-100 in 8.6s! Powerful and awesome indeed! Heehee… I know someone will be angry but… u got diamonds as your best friend, let me have her as my best friend k?

2007-02-23T01:49:00.000+08:00

Make my day... please.

2007-01-15T01:12:00.000+08:00

Woo... havent blogged for ages! Xmas and New Year's over in a blink. And school is making life seem unworthy, and maybe pointless. Yes, im complaining again.

Looking forward to the US trip! This is wad i call motivation! But this doesn't fit well with my spending habits recently... Feeling the pressure to start saving. (To samba: I wanna play for more gigs!) haha... and samba's the driving force for me. I love drums.

Im really brain dead for now. Cant think of wad else to say.

Samba's Busking!!

2006-12-22T15:21:00.000+08:00

Catch us busk LIVE in front of Ngee Ann City this Sunday... yes, X'mas Eve!

A Dedication...

2006-12-06T03:45:00.000+08:00

Played the whole week and it sure feels good! But...it's NOT ENOUGH! Ah... I love december holidays. haha. Now it's back to Samba and I got more free time to reward myself, and rest my battered body.

Got back Creative Thinking results today.... Im really pleased wih it! What a great start to the release of results! That means more good news...? Or the other way around? Ah...better not think so much. I tried my best, i will reap what i sowed. HOWEVER, whatever i have put in may not be wad i get... if not for Cheryl's constant encouragements and valuable help! Ha... my results are made possible because of u!

Play on...

It's time...

2006-11-30T19:51:00.000+08:00

My timetable as of 30 Nov 2006, 2000hrs:

EAT, SLEEP, PLAY and more PLAY...EAT, SLEEP, PLAY and more PLAY...EAT, SLEEP, PLAY and more PLAY...EAT, SLEEP, PLAY and more PLAY...EAT, SLEEP, PLAY and more PLAY...EAT, SLEEP, PLAY and more PLAY...EAT, SLEEP, PLAY and more PLAY...EAT, SLEEP, PLAY and more PLAY...EAT, SLEEP, PLAY and more PLAY...EAT, SLEEP, PLAY and more PLAY...EAT, SLEEP, PLAY and more PLAY...EAT, SLEEP, PLAY and more PLAY...EAT, SLEEP, PLAY and more PLAY...

This is life.

Take charge, take flight.

2006-11-27T17:53:00.000+08:00

My old flame, before i met Cheryl.

Cost for flight training: S$22,000

Igniting the passion within: Priceless

Win, Lose, or Never...

2006-11-27T17:47:00.000+08:00

Exams have already started. It's the same thing... nothing new about it. But the feeling of anxiety is not unfamiliar; it's like taking PSLE, 'O's and 'A's and wadever at one go. Gosh, im only in term 1 year 1. This is crazy shit. Im really gonna rethink my motive for going school... School is not life. Life is not school.

A car is not a 4 wheeled thing! Definitely.

2006-11-19T01:19:00.000+08:00

"It's not shaped like a stack of boxes. It's not so sluggish that it leaves a slime trail. It doesn't squeal in terror when confronted with a corner..."

The all new Mazda CX-7. Zooming in style early 2007.

2006-11-19T01:01:00.000+08:00

Sweet nothings...

2006-11-13T18:35:00.000+08:00

Click on picture for a larger view.

the day we became 3

2006-11-13T18:10:00.000+08:00

The day passed as quickly as it came. It was the day we made the decision. A day filled with nostalgic emotions. The day that's so so important to us...

Told you it was a special day... (we had plans to close the road for a celebration)

Dinner @ Seah St. Deli

What if...

2006-10-27T21:29:00.000+08:00

If I Kissed You

If I kissed you - Would fireworks fly. Woud angels sing with lollipops. Would dinosaurs cry. Would babies all gurgle in laughter and surpriseIf. I kissed you.

If I kissed you - What would Michaelangelo say. Would he still have sculpted David. Would we be immortalized in clay. Would the poets write of love like ours. Would John Donne have his say. If I kissed you

You could be one in a million. You could be the one for me. But l guess I'll never know if I never try. I guess I'll just have to grab you in my arms and kiss you.

If I kissed you - Would you lose track of time. Would you feel a surge of happiness. Running up your spine. Would you run naked in the streetwith a tattoo of my name on your behind. If I kissed you. Oh, if I kissed you. Yeah, if I kissed you.

No regrets...

Rule No 13: Fish is a good source of proteins

2006-10-27T19:48:00.000+08:00

The day is 23 Oct, everyone came armed with the brightest smile! Had lots of great food and fun at the Fish & Co. glass house. And of cos, the birthday kids went home a happier person!

From top-left, clockwise: (1) The musicians at rest! (2) The three birthday babies... (3) Outside the glass house (4) Ryl and Deb looking for more food.

Ms Chew is finally convinced to take up Masters of Accounting offered at SMU. (She needs a Prada)

"The Gabrielite wears Prada"

The winner takes it all

2006-10-27T03:23:00.000+08:00

The prelude to 23 Oct... (yes, it's not the actual day)

Pretty flowers, pretty face... and of cos, a cheesy cake!

Then: Items no. 1, 3 & 7 on her wish-list
Now: Her belongings

Birthdays will nv be the same again... so smile!

A flight of romance @ the Spore Flying Club

2006-10-27T02:34:00.000+08:00

An ERP gantry next to a school is a BAD idea!

Lost in a sea of knowledge

2006-10-26T01:09:00.000+08:00

Certainly overwhelmed by garbage tons of work. This does not look too good. Over the long weekend, finally get to spend lots of time with Ryl... had sort of several outings leading up to her birthday! Managed to spend time with her, her family and our friends. Was a great break from work. And i seriously have no time to post pics now! So just wait...untill SMU has grant me some time off work.

And today (25 oct) was my first ever public performance! It was outside Taka and the turnout was quite bad..... stupid rain. Anyway, really enjoyed my time playing. Looking forward to more gigs... haha.

Alright, this is just a quick update. Going to wake ryl up now. We are going to mug!

-Yet another vicious cycle. The end is just another beginning.

2006-10-20T01:57:00.000+08:00

Myth: Biz law midterms are over!
Fact: Final exams are drawing nearer.

Myth: I can relax and enjoy from the long festive break!
Fact: There are Biz Law, AS essay, Stats assignments to fill my break....

Myth: I have no classes on Fridays!
Fact: I have to be in school for project discussions... !#%*#$

Myth: Samba Masala rocks!
Fact: Samba Masala rocks!

~~~~~~~~

"A rich man will sell a rope to hang himself, if he can make money selling the rope." - Michael Moore

2006-10-14T12:20:00.000+08:00

Im in school! Doing some stupid BGS project. Wad great student life we have here. Sitting in this room, i can clearly see Cathay Cineplex.... Im being confined by school work, and this reminds me that i havent been into a cinema since dunno when.

Ah, im still feeling the bloated-ness from yesterday. My breath smells of Surf n Turf. Didnt have a good sleep. Got to rush out of bed to get myself to school. This lifestyle is killing me.
I need another week of break.

Lovin' it!

2006-10-10T00:37:00.000+08:00

Just came back from Samba's BBQ. Really had great fun with the pple there. hahah... I really enjoyed myself. It was definitely a better ice-breaker than the previous one held at the Big Steps. Got to know more of the pple today.... i got to say there's lot of pretty gals in there... should not name them, u go see for yourself at our next gig! haha. Loving Samba already!

Well, just when i was hoping this is not the only highlight of my term break, i read my emails and my heart broke. "Are u guys free this Wed for our meeting?"..."I think one meeting is not going to be enough, so we shall plan another day to meet up..." This darn term breat is not a break man. Out to break pple's heart... Heartless creatures!

Oh well, Sunday i had a good church outing with ryl's family. The topic for the evening was: What God has united, Man must not divide. Mainly about marriage. The priest was mainly talking bout himself, so i guess many pple will enjoy such gossips. To think on another side of this topic, i was thinking about Man trying to split the atomic atom. Hmm... this has in fact caused the power struggle we face now in the nuclear arms race. So quite true after all... The the priest made an anology that the process of courtship and marriage is just like fishing: You dun feed the fish with the bait after u caught it. Yeah! True!

Alrighty.... maybe im gonna harness whatever energy left, and start (or at least try) to read up biz law. May the force be with me.

Half time

2006-10-07T16:13:00.000+08:00

Finally, mid term breaks are here! This is a much needed one. Im breaking apart from the work in school and all kinds of extra stuff we have to do... In fact, the profs also reminded us to spend time with our familiy and friends! At least they have a heart... It's quite nice to know that we are treated like humans... quite a sad truth ya?

Earlier on had Stats test... pretty alright! And i just heard that some of my seniors are having thier mid-terms tmr... a SUNDAY! Goodness! This is crazy shit! Wad's wrong with the prof man... she shd go for a reform. My heartfelt wishes to those taking the exams....

And can u smell wad Indonesians are cooking lately? The darn haze is real bad. Someone pls stop it. If this goes on, my airconditioner will break down soon.... real soon. Ah...

Gonna plan my time wisely. Got loads to catch up... dumb LAW! I think the textbook can be compared to a bible in terms of contents. They are wad pple refer to when they need advise. There's a number for each chapter, section and sub-section. No pictures. Plainly words. Small text. There are cases in which u relate to. They are thick. And yes... ...AMEN.

2006-10-01T22:22:00.000+08:00

Slept at 7 am today. Woke up at 3 in the afternoon. Wasn't a perfect Sunday though. Spend my whole night slogging to complete BGS. Sigh. Perhaps the only thing i felt good about was dinner at ryl's place. We had steamboat! So nice of her mom to invite me over. It was a Children's Day affair. See how nice she is.... Ate a lot. Can still taste the soup in my breath! haha. I think i ate a whole cow. woo-hoo...

Was just looking thru my Creative Thinking stuff. Really think Margaret Chan rocks! I think she's some sort of siao. But this kind of pple dun really exist. Her enthusiasm will nv fail to inspire others. She really knows all sorts of 'crazy' pple around. She was showing us a video on someone hanging himself on hooks (thru his flesh) and she told us tt's his friend! HA! That was when i think she isn't someone simple... she's here among us to bring about a change in society! Thank u Prof. Margaret! You are just great!

Now without CT classes, im on a 3 day week! That means more time to study... Just came across this video. Really admire pple with talents, whom nv fail to bring out such strong sense of humour. Ah... stats mid-term test is coming.... back to the books.

2006-09-21T00:56:00.000+08:00

I am feeling frustrated and anxious as day goes by. Life now is like a conveyer belt: SCHOOL-HOME-ASSIGNMENTS-SCHOOL-HOME-MORE ASSIGNMENTS! Oh mighty God. This was not wad i set out to be before Uni started. "I wanna be a poster boy!" Now, everything seems so bleak... yeah, soooo damn sad.

Right now im reading up for my Business, Government and Society. Taylor and his revolutionary Scientific Management. ha-ha! Obviously im not paying attention. Then in Business Loh, it is making simple human transactions to an unneccessary yet complicating system. "Zara jeans for sale! $10 only!" ...Do you know that this is an Invitation to Treat? It's not an offer. Any of you need to seek legal grievances? Maybe i can help! Woo-hoo... Im going to sue you! Beware!

Yikes... moving away from those disturbing scenes, i have salvaged some sort of consolation for myself. I got into Samba Masala! Im qute hyped-up about it actually. Finally i can unleash the rythemic and upbeat self of mine. Im no more a Victorian-styled music maker, that is bound by the gracious and melodic form of music making. Rather, the grooves and irregular beats of Brazillian tunes are getting all into me! I love it! Oh yah... the curious reader may want to find out more bout it! Just click on www.sambamasala.com . Cool!

Ok..i got to go back to my readings. Tmr's my last day of the week in school...but also the start of more mugging to follow. Sad life. Until the day i get to get a shot in the poster... ...

Live it!

2006-09-07T00:29:00.000+08:00

School is like driving your under-utilised beetle into a one-way street. There's no turning back or slowing down; more cars line up behind you, some honking and some giving you that unfriendly stare. As you drive down the street, freshly-painted walls of houses greet you. Decked out in the driveway, bigger, newer and faster cars graced the entrance, giving an intimidating stare to passer-bys.

My car isn't that good! It needs a huge overhaul! I need an upgrade! Bring in those Bose Speakers, that soft & tender leather seats and that sleek set of rims and wheels! Let it be the talking point. Let me be different.

2006-08-26T17:25:00.000+08:00

School is driving me crazy day by day; the bidding system is out to add stress to freshies. =
(

School is fun and laughter; creative thinking class rocks! =)

School is overloading my beautiful mind; never ending lessons, tons of projects, new faces to remember each day. =(

School is extraordinary; get a picture of myself taken while jumping in mid air. =)

School is SMU.

SMU is my school.

Choose Singapore!

2006-08-14T02:44:00.000+08:00

Whoo-hoo.... I feel great to be part of this! Though it's quite some time ago, the atmosphere and spirit on that day still resonates in me. 2 years in Army made me love this island more than ever. I really appreciate the quality of life here. Not that the army is a waste of time, but through the years, it has instilled in me some pride and respect for my country.

The crowd at the stadium was overwhelming. There, Singaporeans gather, all kinds literally. Some "typical" ones as we always refer to did their part to promote their kiasu spirit: grabbing as many giveaways their bag can fill... making a big hoo-hah about the goodies in the bag... and many many more that's not suitable to be published here. There are also the "over zealous" kind: screaming at every other opportunity, waving hilariously when told to do so (and obviously also when not required), all these just to grab the attention of the camera crew and photographers. Well... I cant hide and say I'm not part of it....we are ONE! After all its National Day.. so why habour such bitterness? Wah lau... just celebrate lah!

We tattooed our faces... dressed up in red... getting ready to express our affection for the nation!

From clockwise: 1965, you know wad's that. Patriotic, love, affectionate and whatever. Trying to get some kind of a close-but-not-so-close effect. Finally, Im 100% made in Singapore!

Some other great pics from the show....

Yah, fireworks and more fireworks... i cant get enough of it. March past and Mr President doing his stadium tour....

Still not getting enough of the electrifying atmosphere... so we stood up and joined the over-zealous group of people, until we got high. Real high!

This year's NDP just sums up the nostalgic feelings we have for the nation. Great month we had. Watched 4 sets of fireworks within this 2 weeks! Ha. You guys wanna know where all that GST went to? Yeah, they blew it all up with fireworks!!!

A great way to Fly...

2006-08-13T21:20:00.000+08:00

The day we flew... No flight attendants, no refreshments, no emergency exits... No seats! It was a great experince. Went up to catch some fresh air, away from the hazy city air and made worse by intensive burning of incense. Cheryl's soooo scared. haha. She barely moved an inch when we were up there. Well... girls are girls.... BOO!

I was so looking forward to our flight. But who knows... i got a big shock when we got our tickets. Our flight no. was so so inauspicious. Goodness man... well it's 2006 mind u...so i kept that thought at the back of my mind.

Raffles Hotel was this small up there! You got to try it to see that yourself!

The rest of the view up there...

Scary Cheryl... she was like this the whole flight! No joke... She came off the balloon with a cramped jaw. Awww....

2006-08-11T00:42:00.000+08:00

- I havent blogged for a long time. -

{Swoosh, ELW, Bondue, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, NDP 06, fireworks, fireworks, fireworks, work, work, work, work, work, work, and typing this now}

Swooosh!

2006-07-25T00:03:00.000+08:00

Yup, the title is the name of SMU's sports camp. I nv regret signing up for it. Almost every moment was filled with fun and more fun. All these drained wadever energy i had for the weekend. But i came home a happier person.
The main highlight was no doubt the "Amazing Race". Not that we can go about trying different sports, it brought me out of my sheltered cave, and put me through things i wouldn't have bothered to try. Stuff like golf, dragonboating, rock climbing, is smt new to me... and things i thought (yes, i assumed and acted smart) i knew were re-taught in a whole new light! We went on the DHL Balloon as part of the amazing race's quest. (Dont ask me wad quest) Ran all over town to dig up answers to clues. Hijacked pple's car in a bid to hitch a free (and faster) ride to our destination. Those were the times....

GREEN is GOLD... get it?

2006-07-18T00:22:00.000+08:00

16 JULY 2006
A group of people kept the hopes of many alive...
They came from all walks of life....

They believed in one goal....

Something they wanted deep in thier hearts...

And they called themselves the 'dream team'...

I finally got my wish come true. Unbelieveable evening. Every moment tt night will be archived in my mind... every single detail of it. It was a sweet victory for all of us. A night TJ brought the house down with pure, solid accustics. It may not be perfect, but it was definitely played by a perfect combination of talents, well groomed by a humble and gifted being.

To all these talents: Keep our spirits high, and keep the flames burning bright!

Here's the music!

25 hours a day... 8 days a week

2006-07-15T13:42:00.000+08:00

This week is overwhelming. 24 hours is not enough for me. I cant remember a time when i can just sit down and read the papers over a coffee. Now that sch is starting, i realised i better kick some ass before the books kick mine!

Some really bad news though, bert's dad collasped suddenly and was rushed to the hospital. When i got there at night, he was in the ICU already. And i almost broke down looking at his state. Bert was somehow lost in his world and i nv saw him like tt. But thank God, he woke up after being in a coma for 1 day. A big sigh of relieve. Now he is on the road to recovery and i really hope everything will be fine! Pray for my friend! And to bert, dun worry. Everything's okie. Will go fishing with CO once he's ok and he will be fine! Ohhh-kayyy!

Yeah, went for SMU matriculation. Quite surprised to see many familiar faces. At least i will feel much comfortable when school starts. So i'll be officially a FRESHIE! Sounds bad. But got choice here? And i got to do a freaking 80 hours of community work! God save the queen!

Alrighty, band starting. Dun think i'll be there early to carry instruments. Let the young bloods do the job. They need more practice.

2006-07-11T23:56:00.000+08:00

When primitive man screamed and beat the ground with sticks, they called it Witchcraft.
When modern man does the same thing, they call it Golf.

2006-07-08T02:53:00.000+08:00

Today was at Raffles Hospital for my pre-uni check up. Well, the venue itself explains how SMU value its students (i hope so). But nm that. Everything was done in about an hour. Quite fast for a hospital and during the peak hours...
Most pple there are the tai-tais... and mostly not locals. So i was being my usual, trying to figure out who these pple are. And, well, not to my amazement, most pple there are the ah tiongs*. They are here to apply for student permits... and to me they seemed rather well off. To them, its a big acheivement to study here.
For us here, we may just look upon them as our competitors, rather than a guest. And the recent debate of indecent Chinese Masseuse in the limelight just made me wonder it their reputation here is tarnished. I've got to admit, i don't fancy their presence here. Cant explain why. Just a flawed impression i have on them...

Gone Fishing

2006-06-18T23:36:00.000+08:00

Our Fishing sanctuary...

The fishing buddies...

Well, another lazy Sunday where i can be myself, and escape from the harsh realities of life. Nothing beats peace and quiet... but with the exception of passerbys looking at us with a curious pair of eyes and irritating kids that couldn't stop running past us. Ok, today was still a good fishing trip.
Cheryl is coming back soon! Looking forward to that. And i havent thought of a place to bring her when's she back... hmm.... I guess she's not having a good time there right now. Just hope tt she is surviving everything. Yup, and i need a hair cut.

2006-06-14T00:35:00.000+08:00

I've never thought that fishing will come into my life. Until 2 of my great buddies pulled me into the picture one fateful day. And here i am, truely enjoying and appreciating the essence of this sport. My life will never be the same again... Fishing is nv a waiting game. It teaches patience and having a positive attitude in me. Well, u pple reading this can call me to express your interest.... and i will gladly invite u to join me for a day/night of fishing with abundant harvest! Rods, baits, refreshments, and whatsoever will be provided... yes, everything provided FREE but a positive spirit and a clear peace of mind within yourself will not be included.

My 'virgin' catch!

Above: A stingray stung my bait and i in turn stunned it. Length: 33.6cm

Below: Surprise catch - Mother stingray ( Babies included)

Well, i shall grill this priced catch. hmmm.... or shall i spread some sambal and put it on the BBQ pit? Then squeeze some lime on it just before serving....

Crazy week... Crazy Horse

2006-06-10T16:16:00.000+08:00

Crazy week...
Finally it's the weekends... My week was literaly occupied with work and more work. My brain is suffering from information overload. I have to learn the trades of business each day i work... and the meetings i attend with dad are just overwhelming. Honestly, i just put up a false front most of the time. Just pretending to understand... and then when i go home, i'll just spend time thinking of wad was discussed. Ok, i have to say i quite like wad i'm doing now. And i have plans for my future. This is a good foundation for school (oh no) and work later on....

Crazy horse...
Woke up at 2pm today. Worked for 14 hours yesterday! Helped out at an event at Crazy Horse! WHOOO! Awesome! I had this little chance to catch the very last part of the performance before the event started. And it was in fact.... truely 'artistic'. It's just topless women dancing with patterened-lights shining on them, giving pple the illusion that it's worth up to $1000+++ to watch them dance. Oh God, enlighten these pple. Ok, actually the highlight was the party. Mainly the rich and famous. I was actually serving ang mohs, together with thier model girlfriends, some come with SPGs.... and Dick Lee was there too. I have to admit i was gawking at some of them. Truely a Crazy party...

Sigh... amidst all these happenings, Cheryl left for myanmar early this morning. 2 weeks till she's back. Well... just pray for her safety there. All the way girl!

Okie.. leaving for band now! Just no time for myself....

2006-06-05T00:08:00.000+08:00

It's been a rather busy week for me... Besides work, i got to meet up with friends and also attend band practice. Hardly got any time left for myself.
Working for dad these few days have been quite different from the past... Now i got to do a more 'serious and sophisticated' job. Compared to the past where i just hang around and do wad's left to be done. I guess it's time i learn something useful... and make myself useful as well. Gone were the days in camp... where i just slack my time off. Hmm.. good in a sense, and bad in another.
Well, now i'm still deciding if i'm still going to take up another job. So many commitments..so little time. Sounds familiar? yah, i'll see to this in the near future. Just let me get used to the busy schedule i have now....
And well, band practices have been improving. We are now getting somewhere.... So to pple of other band reading this, YOU got to work harder. We are once again about to create magic on 15 July. The spirit lives on till today.... just wait and see!

ha..and i found this funny and interesting link... it's about the da vinci code the movie.
http://www.syfc.org.sg/events/dvc/cinema.html

Today is Liberation Day

2006-06-02T00:05:00.000+08:00

Scalling greater heights....

Took my last step into a place that shaped my young adulthood. Never will i know that the rites of passage every man go through will embed such a strong and empowering identity in me. I wasnt emotionally overwhelmed, but it was just enough to make me feel in me a sense of self fulfillment and pride.
.
All these years of soldering will now be remembered by fond memories, friends as well as what i am today... and as the saying goes: Not for fame of fortune. The stories we have will only find special meanings in those who have gone through them, been there, and done that.

2006-05-23T02:12:00.000+08:00

Intimidating on the outside, gentle on the inside.

This car is as old as me! My grandfather's treasure. He kept it as good as new. Although this car has lost its glamour, it has served us well. In its heyday, this car was the great white shark of the roads... and brought anyone to their location with the " i've arrived" attitude. Well this impromtu photoshoot was done by me... as i think i should honour this old dame. Cos i dunno when will be the day.... the day when the truth sets in, and when the machines have to succumb to the harsh forces of nature.

BMW 520i

1989-present

Absolut Lihao

2006-05-23T01:35:00.000+08:00

I came across this site today...
http://www.thesurrealist.co.uk/slogan.cgi
It's really interesting! Puts your name into a slogan and this is wad i got:
Absolut Lihao
Cool man! Ok... i shall be funny today and make this into a tag! At least this is LESS time-consuming than the last one.... Alright here are the rules:
1. Those whose name appear have to click on the above site and enter ur name in it.
2. No cheating... Post wadever ur FIRST result IN MY TAG BOARD and you are good to go!

Here are the lucky winners.... Deborah (do this b4 u leave), Cheryl, Pam, Huichee, Derek, and Ryan (if u are reading this).

2006-05-11T00:24:00.000+08:00

Okie... Pam 'tagged' me. This is wad it is about. Once you are tagged you MUST write a blog about your 6 weird habits/things as well as state this rule clearly. In the end, you need to choose the next six people to be tagged and list their names.. So here i go....

I like to touch my ear! I think i have a fetish for my ear loops. And i like pple to touch them too..... Its just sooo.... good! It's my soft spot.. ah-hah!
I always leave a small small amount of drink in a cup when im drinking something from it. I dunno why i dun like the idea of finishing the entire contents and thus leaving the cup empty. Maybe i always think some sediments might settle down to the bottom, and i might just be drinking all the undissolved "things".
I have a seasonal appetite for both drinks/food. There will be this period of time tt i will be addicted to certain drinks/food! Then i will stock them in the kitchen and fill my stomach with them in between meals. Currently my addiction is soya bean milk.
Whenever i watch tv... i WILL turn to the other channels during commercials. I have a short attention span. I cannot be a couch potato. I cannot watch a movie aired on tv.... sigh.
I like to drive with 1 hand! Manual or auto geared, my left hand will be on the gear. It's a habit already. Another reason is tt i like to fiddle with all the small small controls in the car... the air-con, the radio volume, anything lah... just as long and there's a switch i will be touching it!
And (finally) lastly... i have this liking for perfection. Anything that i do must go well, if not smoothly. I always like to detail every single thing i do so that nothing, or minimising, the the things that will go wrong. So sometimes i get frustrated...if things go wrong. Ahh...quite bad sometimes....hmmm.

Ok... it's over. The next few pple shall be.....

Derek

HuiChee

... cant think of anymore... just the 2 of u then!

Guardsmen: Defining Excellence

2006-05-11T00:12:00.000+08:00

This photo was taken @ Singapore Conference Hall. Was doing the SYF ushering when the Class Pictures photographers asked if we want a pic to be taken. It's Free! So we cant object to such tempting offers.... haha.

A Day I Decided for my Future

2006-05-08T14:27:00.000+08:00

The election fever came and go. But it left in me a greater understanding of politics in Singapore. I was nv intersted in such things... dun bother to say read about it or find out more. I attend 1 rally and was greatly overwhelmed by it. It was enought for me to know wad the pple's voice was about. It was there i knew Singaporeans are a cohesive lot. Standing together to fight or rather rally for a cause. I suddenly felt emotionally overwhelmed by it... and i knew i had to be passionate about it. I even quarrelled with Cheryl on issues i dun agree. That's election.

I really have to respect (some) opposition candidates for wad they do. Fueled by passion, they fought hard. Chiam and Low were the winners... not just for themselves and thier parties, but for the ordinary folks whose hearts were touched by them. The next time i walk into a opposition ward i will not be taken aback by thier (some say crumpling) states. But now i admire their inner beauty. I will respect the pple there. For they know that their pride and what they stood for doesn't cost just 180 million dollars. They nv betrayed their leaders for money when everyone expected them to give in to it. Wad is money here? Will u let someone buy Singapore for as much money as they will give? Well, the pple leaving there will forgo upgrading for now, and they are proving that they truely and deeply believe in wad is called democracy and equality. Pple like who think like these are the ones who are fit to lead Singapore in the coming future.... pple with outstanding character and a great sense of wisdom.

I may be dimayed and disappointed with the opposition winning only 2 seats... but in years to come, the younger generation like me will have greater influence in things around us. At least for now, we still do have a voice, and we have a Choice.

2006-04-23T19:09:00.000+08:00

The past weeks was interesting... i had a chance to get away from the mundane life in camp. We were at various SYF Central Judging venues helping out in almost everything! Goodness, we were literally utilised till the max. We were assigned to be ushers, time-keepers, receptionists, crowd controls... and many other trival tasks that's not worth the mention here.

.
.
SYF Dance was an eye opener... interesting to see small primary school kids to dance so elegantly and always wearing a nv fading smile. Behind the scene... i get to see the 'kan chiong' teachers and parents. One teacher tugged a dancer to her side, deeped a sponge into a God-knows-how-many-years-old fondation cake, and powdered everything on the poor little gal's face... another parent kept reminding her daughter to pay attention to her dance moves... sigh...
Then i also did SYF band... much better this time. Except that parents need to be reminded repeatedly not to take pictures... and some show lousy concert etiquette. Yesterday i was treated to a great performance by the outdoor display bands... haha, saw many pple there including Tan Yina, Yijie, and to my surprise, one gang of the current TJ band pple... And for those who wants to know the results... TKSS, Bowen and Deyi went to the finals...

.
.
Well... amongst all these ups and downs, i really did enjoy wad i'm doing. Will nv have a chance to do all these. So a great learning experience for me. Coming week will be another SYF. And i seriously cant wait for liberation day... a few more weeks, i got to hang on!

2006-04-02T19:41:00.000+08:00

I dusted my keyboard... lubricated the mouse, and here i am again! When was my last post?...

Previous weeks was filled with work and more work. I was literally overwhelmed by the amount and effort put in to stage NDP. Everything from coordination and planning to the little details of props and costumes were not spared by us. I had to visit schools participating in NDP.... basically just becoming a dispensible servant. No wonder they called my occupation a National Serviceman.

Sigh... just a few days ago, i helped out in a funeral of a Colonel that died while running. Emotions ran through me. This was the first time I saw tears running down a soldier's face. Seeing his innocent 2 year old daughter just made me feel even worse. I really pray and wish his family will have the courage and strength in them to overcome this. This is the passing of just 1 sevicemen. What will be like in a war?

Ok... dun think so much. Coming weeks will be filled with more NDP support and we will be extending our over stretched helping hand for SYF support too! Well... Leave it to the NS men... We serve the nation after all. =/

2006-03-14T15:46:00.000+08:00

You have the soul of a poet. You are able to see the underlying connections and the subtleties that other people just gloss over. You know that human nature is basically good, even when times seem to indicate otherwise. - My astrology.

Sweetest 22!

2006-03-05T15:30:00.000+08:00

Thank you everyone... who made it to Timbre. Thank you for all your presents... and your fantastic company. And to those who could not make it, let me thank you for the presents too! I had a great time! And i certainly hoped everyone there did so too. Looking at the pictures just remind me of the endless fun that we had. haha...

My presents....

From top left, yes that shiny thing, key chain from agnes b. (ask rohai for pronounciation)

Top right, Calvin Klein underwear and bottom left, i dun really know wad's that... a g-string without the string. yeah. And not in the picture, num tshirt, a ferarri perfume, and another body perfume and a lovely mug from ryl's grandma! But wad's really sweet was this photo album from cheryl. In it, photos with my friends which i nv have... and bday wishes from most of my friends! haha.. So nice!

A game of 5-10 nestled Yihong comfortably on the tables... who's fault?

Can you spot that blooper pic? haha...

Got lots of pple to thank. haha... needless to mention, Cheryl, for her wonderful planning and many surprises she gave. Each and eneryone... Ms chew, Mavis, Zhihan, Timothy, HoChuan, Vanessa, Adolphus, JanJan, Rohai, Yihong, Wesley, William, Melody, Pam, Deborah, Minyi, Herbert and last but not least, Ryan!

I'm 22. Been through lots these years... I love everything i have and i appreciate them all. Esp Cheryl and my friends. You all give me that little but much needed motivation to go on in life. You all made living much worthwhile...

Thank You. =)

2006-03-02T12:44:00.000+08:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY GRANDPA!!

-28 Feb 2006-
It was a great get together for my family. Wad made it special was the presence of everyone... Especially my sis and dad whom has been away most of the time. Hope to have more of such gatherings. I really appreaciate everyone who made this possible. And to gong gong, I wish u good health and stay happy always! Cheers!

2006-03-01T23:32:00.000+08:00

We braved the scorching and unforgiving sun...
We persisted and endured the queue that seemed to never end...
And here we are, pround to be an audience of cool jets and charming pilots,
where the scream of its after-burner just lifted our spirits to yet another level.
Need i describe more...?

The Mean Machines...

Well equiped to handle the sun baked noon.

She's really an eye catcher!! Love you!

Too many photos to post... just too many.

Till the next airshow at 2008...haha... Good Day! Over and out.

2006-02-18T14:09:00.000+08:00

Can't wait for Asian Aerospace! While everybody out there have idols, mine's planes! It's one of the best shows around... Multi-million dollar planes deck all out just to excite my visual senses. Airshows set to thrill and make hair stand. Nevermind the price, the unforgiving sun, queues... wadever. i just have to be there! Have to really thank ryl for promising to accompany me! i know to her planes are just planes, and might not understand wad's the big hoo-hah of going there about, but i really appreciate her lots for tt sacrifice! It's just like asking me to go watch some girly shows with her... yuks. (i still won't). thank u dear!

Been spending a lot recently. And have been really occupied. Saddest thing ever is tt i spent Valentine's Day at Lim Chu Kang! Had a 2 course dinner of Jacob's biscuits as starters and a main course of Maggi mee with an assorment of insects. The meal came with complimentary packet green tea. Cool! Then sat there in a daze to watch fireflies with my rifle and my buddy and mE-eeE-Eee! Sigh... but i still managed to surprise ryl on tt day without my presence.. heehee. Proud of myself there.

Going shopping for some stuff soon. Money money... i need u...

2006-02-12T20:47:00.000+08:00

Our story...

2006-02-12T09:41:00.000+08:00

It all started when he picked her up at her place, a gracious effort every other guy never fails to put in. A humble stalk of baby blue rose came reaching out from behind... making her stare at disbelieve. Was is an expected move? Or was his plan nicely crafted to suit the occasion? Wad will follow...?

Only he knows...

Dinner was at her favourite NYDC place. They exchanged glares into each other's eyes over the table. Murmered secretly time to time. Food for him was exceptionally tasty...and dessert was far more sweeter than usual. Why?

Only she knows...

Strolled down the park with the Singapore River running beside. They sat down by the rocky ledge... then a loud bang seem to break open the peaceful sky. It was the loudest thing she heard! She was terrified. But nevertheless comforted by his presence. The 3 mins of fireworks seemed like eternity... They were excluded from reality for that moment. Everything was magic. Their eyes were peeled to the performance in the sky... and loving it!

As the song 'blind' plays unexpectedly in the car stereo, she handed him a pen holder that money couldn't buy. A tshirt that he intended to buy. With that, she thought it was the end of the night. But he was always there to prove her wrong. Her huge eyes stared uncontrollable at what she held in her hands. Something she would never thought that will come from him... She teared. Why?

Only love knows...

"Help Help"... the World is falling... Timbre!!!

2006-02-05T15:56:00.000+08:00

Let's go Timbre... Great place, housing inspiring bands that come with good music. Great pizzas too! We had a triple mushroom.. Eat all, love all. All in one. We love it. With the music going and its soothing groove getting into us, it's time to chill and nurse a corrupted self... ...

Corrupted from violence in the world, from people fighting for power, money and fame, from things that are disheartening and heart aching... Why do pple die for other's greed?? We work so hard for fame & fortune. Trying to be a class above the rest. Yet everyone just dun understand...we cant be the boss... cos Everyone is just an employee of Money.

I need a change. No loud thumping music. No excessive booze. Maybe its good in a way... i need peace. Anyone got this book titled "How to get rid of pride for dummies" ? I need it. Badly. Pride is getting into me like a unstoppable virus. It's like a stubborn stain - always there and after trying the best effort to remove it, it's there again! Well, its not the end. New detergents will be here in my aid soon...

...as the band performed to their climax, we are all soaked with thier zest and enthusiasm ... and all i can give in return is a pair of appreciative ears. Just let my mind escape from reality. i have my own troubles to bother. Keep those drums rolling, keep those spirits high. Pray for peace. I'm sorry dear... No time for sophistication. I just want to be simple.

4 Words of Well Wishes, 3 Handshakes, 2 Oranges and Me.

2006-01-31T01:24:00.000+08:00

Well well well.... its the time of the year where i finally find an excuse to stay home to clean my home... Where everyone in the family has to abide by traditions and customs to stay home for a dinner together... Where good food is in abundance... Where red is finally the colour of the season... Where gambling and drinking is allowed in front of parents... And whao...! Strangers become relatives all of a sudden! wad can i say... it's power pack!

So far so good. Red packet collection is healthy i shd say. "Bling bling". No wonder they always wish pple a 'prosperous' new year. now i know why...

Keep the spirits high pple! Keep the joy and laugher going. Enjoy the moment before the long break ends...
Happy Chinese New Year to all....!

What you value, you will defend.

2006-01-26T03:48:00.000+08:00

Thru these gruelling years in the army, little did i know the purpose and motive of it. I've always been whining about it. Trying my very best to come to a satisfying answer to console my battered body. But neither of my reasoning have given me comfort and a sense of accomplishment. Until a few months back.... i know i was doing my loved ones a duty. A duty derived of pride and self-worthiness. The quote on the poster says it all... u protect wad u love and do it willingly and selflessly. I'm now ready....

wet weather program

2006-01-21T20:06:00.000+08:00

Say goodbye to the raging sun,the rain's here to reign in the day. Keep us warm, keep us dry. These are the thoughts floating about in a peasant's mind. Elsewhere in the world somewhere,the rain is thier only hope to survive. So tell me how to keep hopes high, when you are an ordinary person just like me.

-lihao&cheryl-

Make way... a freshly loaded blog on its way...!

2006-01-07T00:18:00.000+08:00

Bam bam bam....... looks like i've joined the league of the blogging world. Hooray for pple around me... who want to intrude into my life. Just got to say you've got to ask me out to really know me. Phone no. is not included here. SO just be patient, this thing is gonna come up soon.

To any passersby... just to let u know that:
1. I will NOT include any racist remarks in this blog.
2. I will NOT defame any celebs, politicians...etc.
3. I will NOT post pictures of SAF assets (eg:tanks, rifles, bombs, etc...)