There has been quite a number of horror and gore shows lately in the cinemas. And yes, being a horror fan, I wouldn't want to miss it for sure especially those movies produced by Lion Gates. (Lion Gates are well-known for producing horror/terrifiying and anything to do with scaring people movies.) And to top that up, director Eli Roth even proclaims himself as the 'Horror Borat'. Woohoo!
I caught the recent 'Hostel Part II' last week and it definitely blow my guts and mind out! For those who have watched 'Hostel Part I', you must catch it's Part II sequel and I guarantee you that it will be more intense, suspense and violent than ever. Not that I am a psycho or torture freak, but this movie sure does takes you to a whole new terrifiying level. For the faint hearted, save your bucks for this especially since now it's the seventh month (eeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee)
I think I am going to catch 'SkinWalker' this weekend...oooooo...just by the title of the show, my imagination is going wild!
Thursday, August 23, 2007
Another horrible finding
Another horrible finding! Reported in the Forum section of the Straits Time today, a lady ordered a plate of 'Sliced sambal Fried Fish' from a stall @ Banquet and was savouring her coleslaw when she realised there was something 'CHEWY' about it. She took it out from her mouth and found a plaster with dried blood on it. GROSS! YIKES! PUKES!
It seems that the chain of Banquetfood stalls are experiencing some kind of 'hygiene' issues here. First, I discovered a 'dead cockroach' in my noodles at AMK Banquet and now, someone has chewed on a bloody plaster @ Jurong Banquet. What else could be next??!! I shall leave that to your imagination.
The funny thing is the woman sent a compliant email to customercare@banquet.com.sg, only to receive a return email saying 'The address had permanent fatal errors'. It's so ridiculous.
It seems that the chain of Banquetfood stalls are experiencing some kind of 'hygiene' issues here. First, I discovered a 'dead cockroach' in my noodles at AMK Banquet and now, someone has chewed on a bloody plaster @ Jurong Banquet. What else could be next??!! I shall leave that to your imagination.
The funny thing is the woman sent a compliant email to customercare@banquet.com.sg, only to receive a return email saying 'The address had permanent fatal errors'. It's so ridiculous.
Friday, August 10, 2007
Yikes! A UFO in my macaroni
Yep, I was 100% confirmed that it was not garlic, onions or any garnishes of that sort. Last evening, I ordered a bowl of chicken macaroni soup from the Chicken rice stall at Banquet at AMK. (Hah!! Blacklist that stall now that I have said out the name). I was stirring the soup and taking my first bite of the chicken slices when I noticed a UFO in my soup (Unidentified Floating Object). I’m sure you’ve guessed what it was. Yep, there was this cockroach with it's hairy legs floating at the corner and in my soup. HORRENDOUS! I thought it was garlic cos the colour was so similar to crispy garlic and to make sure I was not seeing wrongly, I got my partner to confirm it. Even though the waiter apologized and offered to replace a new bowl for me, I had lost my appetite and requested for a re-fund instead.
It's really digusting and kinda nauseating. I am never patronising that stall again no matter how tasty their chicken rice is. Yikes! I should have taken a photo of it and sent it to STOMP....wahahaha
It's really digusting and kinda nauseating. I am never patronising that stall again no matter how tasty their chicken rice is. Yikes! I should have taken a photo of it and sent it to STOMP....wahahaha
Wednesday, August 08, 2007
The day the weather went wrong
Boohoo! The weather is getting from bad to worse lately! Tons of people are falling sick. Right now in my office, i can hear sneezes and coughs within the next cubicle.
Even people whom I’ve known to be “invincible” have fallen prey to the “Virus-Monster”. Moi has been falling sick easily these days too (should I blame it on the weather or it's just me). I hate it! Its ok to have the occasional fever or flu bug, but not when it comes in a combination of 3 in 1. What I meant by 3 in 1 is the cough, the running nose and the sore throat. How bad can that be? Not to mention my Sheares Bridge run is taking place on Aug 26, I don't want to miss any training because of this 'monster'. Argh....
Even people whom I’ve known to be “invincible” have fallen prey to the “Virus-Monster”. Moi has been falling sick easily these days too (should I blame it on the weather or it's just me). I hate it! Its ok to have the occasional fever or flu bug, but not when it comes in a combination of 3 in 1. What I meant by 3 in 1 is the cough, the running nose and the sore throat. How bad can that be? Not to mention my Sheares Bridge run is taking place on Aug 26, I don't want to miss any training because of this 'monster'. Argh....
Tuesday, August 07, 2007
Truesay in Wisteria Lane
I was really touched by the Desperate Housewives show yesterday. In case some of you have not heard or watch Desperate Housewives, it's basically a series of darkly comedic look at the secret lives of housewives which ain't always what they seem in Wisteria Lane.
Yesterday's show was the most touching for me and I have given it some rating based on how it has melted me. Starting with:
1. Rick tells Lynette of Tom's suspicions and she breaks down, saying that she loved having these evenings to look forward to where she could feel sexy again, even though she never meant for it to go any farther. She tells him that's all ruined now and that he simply has to go.
Melting effect: Lynette's crush for Rick was revealed in this episode as she sobs to herself in the bathroom after telling Tom that Rick has quit. Sometimes, it's hard to cross the line and once you have crossed it, it's even harder to break away from that line. (9.5/10 melting effect)
2.Travers' two-week visit with Edie is up and his father, Charles, has come to take him home. Carlos lets it be known to Edie that he's not going to be around as much without Travers there, so she tells Charles she's filing for joint custody. Realizing that she's doing this because of him, Carlos points out that Travers' needs should come first and being split between two different schools and sets of friends will be rough. He promises to be there for Edie, even when Travers isn't around.
Melting effect: I am touched by Carlos's TLC for Edie and promise to be by her side even if Travers is not there. It's good that a guy knows what a woman wants and needs especially for a woman like Edie. (7/10 melting effect)
3.Gabrielle is annoyed to get a parking ticket from a meter man even though she told him she was about to leave. After Victor Lang won the mayor position, Gabriell was out celebrating her new status as "First Lady of Fairview," when she spies the same meter man from the day before. She deliberately parks in front of a fire hydrant and tells him there's nothing he can do about it. He writes her a ticket and she tears it up and things escalate from there, with her finally ending up in the back of a police car. Victor's position as mayor-elect means that he is indeed able to spring her from jail and have all the charges dropped, but before she explain her side of the story, he icily informs her that he expects his wife to act like a grown-up and not do things such as jump on him like she did on election night when he won. Shaken, she promises it'll never happen again. But then he catches sight of her bruised wrist and she says that the meter man twisted her arm. Later, as Victor and Gaby dance happily at his victory party, two men accost the meter man and savagely beat him. "Do you know how much I love you?" Victor asks.
Melting effect: Victor Lang shows her love for Gaby indirectly. Gaby must have felt that Victor was cold when he told her to behave herself since now he is a mayor. I think Gaby has found the true love of her life...a man who would do anything for her, even in the dark. (8/10 melting effect)
4.Susan decides to find Mike on her own after knowing Mike has went up to the local forests. Of course she gets hopelessly lost. Before she beds down for the night, she leaves Mike a message on his voicemail saying she's always loved him and how sorry she is. And that she doesn't want any more drama. Mike, having overheard the park rangers hunting for a "missing, klutzy brunette" finds her the next morning. "I sprained my ankle," she tells him and he says, "Good. It gives me a chance to do this." And he takes her in his arms and kisses her.
Melting effect: Drama Queen, Susan finally realises Mike is the love of her life (it sure took her a long time to find out who she really loves) and goes in search of him in the forest, only to get lost but rescued the next morning by Mike, who literally swepts her off her feet. How surreal!! (8.5/10 melting effect)
I am really wondering does all such fairy tales only takes place in Wisteria Lane?
Yesterday's show was the most touching for me and I have given it some rating based on how it has melted me. Starting with:
1. Rick tells Lynette of Tom's suspicions and she breaks down, saying that she loved having these evenings to look forward to where she could feel sexy again, even though she never meant for it to go any farther. She tells him that's all ruined now and that he simply has to go.
Melting effect: Lynette's crush for Rick was revealed in this episode as she sobs to herself in the bathroom after telling Tom that Rick has quit. Sometimes, it's hard to cross the line and once you have crossed it, it's even harder to break away from that line. (9.5/10 melting effect)
2.Travers' two-week visit with Edie is up and his father, Charles, has come to take him home. Carlos lets it be known to Edie that he's not going to be around as much without Travers there, so she tells Charles she's filing for joint custody. Realizing that she's doing this because of him, Carlos points out that Travers' needs should come first and being split between two different schools and sets of friends will be rough. He promises to be there for Edie, even when Travers isn't around.
Melting effect: I am touched by Carlos's TLC for Edie and promise to be by her side even if Travers is not there. It's good that a guy knows what a woman wants and needs especially for a woman like Edie. (7/10 melting effect)
3.Gabrielle is annoyed to get a parking ticket from a meter man even though she told him she was about to leave. After Victor Lang won the mayor position, Gabriell was out celebrating her new status as "First Lady of Fairview," when she spies the same meter man from the day before. She deliberately parks in front of a fire hydrant and tells him there's nothing he can do about it. He writes her a ticket and she tears it up and things escalate from there, with her finally ending up in the back of a police car. Victor's position as mayor-elect means that he is indeed able to spring her from jail and have all the charges dropped, but before she explain her side of the story, he icily informs her that he expects his wife to act like a grown-up and not do things such as jump on him like she did on election night when he won. Shaken, she promises it'll never happen again. But then he catches sight of her bruised wrist and she says that the meter man twisted her arm. Later, as Victor and Gaby dance happily at his victory party, two men accost the meter man and savagely beat him. "Do you know how much I love you?" Victor asks.
Melting effect: Victor Lang shows her love for Gaby indirectly. Gaby must have felt that Victor was cold when he told her to behave herself since now he is a mayor. I think Gaby has found the true love of her life...a man who would do anything for her, even in the dark. (8/10 melting effect)
4.Susan decides to find Mike on her own after knowing Mike has went up to the local forests. Of course she gets hopelessly lost. Before she beds down for the night, she leaves Mike a message on his voicemail saying she's always loved him and how sorry she is. And that she doesn't want any more drama. Mike, having overheard the park rangers hunting for a "missing, klutzy brunette" finds her the next morning. "I sprained my ankle," she tells him and he says, "Good. It gives me a chance to do this." And he takes her in his arms and kisses her.
Melting effect: Drama Queen, Susan finally realises Mike is the love of her life (it sure took her a long time to find out who she really loves) and goes in search of him in the forest, only to get lost but rescued the next morning by Mike, who literally swepts her off her feet. How surreal!! (8.5/10 melting effect)
I am really wondering does all such fairy tales only takes place in Wisteria Lane?
The RealRun
More adrenalin pumping runs coming up in the next few months! Apart from the Standard Chartered Run on Dec 2, another marathorn which got me excited is the RealRun by New Balance . What is new is that the 15km run includes a 12km road run + 1km sand + 1km trial + 1km runaway. Something unusual from the normal road run.
The Realrun will kick off on 28th October and will take place at Changi Coast Road. Definitely worth checking out for sure!
The Realrun will kick off on 28th October and will take place at Changi Coast Road. Definitely worth checking out for sure!
Friday, August 03, 2007
That time of the year again...
Another month of hair pulling and seeing stars as I screened through the endless string of candidates in my queue for the award cycle. Yes, the part of the year which I lose sleep over with, wondering if I have done a fair and unbias evaluation on all my candidates and giving them what they deserved. I feel like I am writing a testimonial for my candidates - putting in their strengths, achievements and how I feel about each of them. (not simple hor)
Okay..enough of my ramblings and rants and back to my candidate screening time (and yes, pulling hair time too).
Okay..enough of my ramblings and rants and back to my candidate screening time (and yes, pulling hair time too).
Monday, July 30, 2007
Rainy Run
The last time I ran in the rain was back in my NPCC days. Yes, we called it the PT(Physical training) time and as we ran round the tracks with our Ma'ams leading the squad and singing and cheering to keep our spirits high up....it was totally effortless and enjoyable.
A sense of deja vu on Saturday 28th July as I ran in the OSIM Singapore International Trialthon relay competition with my partner at East Coast Park in the heavy pouring rain (minus the songs and cheers). I was literally soaked from head to toes and there goes my new and heavily invested pair of asics gel shoes getting all muddy, dirty and wet(my dearest shoes!!!).
It was really cold and definitely not a nice feeling running in the heavy pouring rain. Mind you, it was not just a passing rain or a slight drizzle, but a heavy and continuous downpour which lasted till about 2pm. Each step taken was definitely challenging as I have to leap, jump and cross over puddles of water, not to mention I have to avoid splashing the person next to me (sorry to whoever got splashed by me). I was just glad I crossed the finishing line in one soaking piece (haha). Yeah...it was a good run, but not an excellent one given the weather condition.
I can't wait for the Sheares Bridge run on Aug 26. I just hope that it will be Mr. Sun I am seeing instead of Mr. Rain.
A sense of deja vu on Saturday 28th July as I ran in the OSIM Singapore International Trialthon relay competition with my partner at East Coast Park in the heavy pouring rain (minus the songs and cheers). I was literally soaked from head to toes and there goes my new and heavily invested pair of asics gel shoes getting all muddy, dirty and wet(my dearest shoes!!!).
It was really cold and definitely not a nice feeling running in the heavy pouring rain. Mind you, it was not just a passing rain or a slight drizzle, but a heavy and continuous downpour which lasted till about 2pm. Each step taken was definitely challenging as I have to leap, jump and cross over puddles of water, not to mention I have to avoid splashing the person next to me (sorry to whoever got splashed by me). I was just glad I crossed the finishing line in one soaking piece (haha). Yeah...it was a good run, but not an excellent one given the weather condition.
I can't wait for the Sheares Bridge run on Aug 26. I just hope that it will be Mr. Sun I am seeing instead of Mr. Rain.
Sunday, July 22, 2007
Were-Sheeps
Sick of werewolves? Then how about sheeps??!! Yes, not just normal sheeps, but sheeps that have gone crazy and goes on a killing rampage?? Black sheep is a horror cum comedy movie. It depicts how a genetic engineering experiment went horribly wrong in a New Zealand farm and turning the sheeps into bloodthirsty killers. Human beings who are bitten by the infected sheeps become 'were-sheeps' (is there such a word for it?). I was basically laughing it off throughout the whole movie. (sigh...another indication that such movies are not watchable...)
I used to think sheeps are docile animals, not like those bloodthirsty beasts in the show that goes attacking human beings and ripping off their guts. Weak plot, bad jokes and yeah, not scary a bit. Doesn't appear to me as either a comedy or horror show. Neh, definitely not worth my $8.50. Bleah.
I used to think sheeps are docile animals, not like those bloodthirsty beasts in the show that goes attacking human beings and ripping off their guts. Weak plot, bad jokes and yeah, not scary a bit. Doesn't appear to me as either a comedy or horror show. Neh, definitely not worth my $8.50. Bleah.
Tuesday, July 17, 2007
Kristy was in town.....
Kristy was in town last week for our APAC/EMEA offsite meeting. So, as the host, we brought her to Glutton bay to have a taste of local food. Thanks to the MVPs for volunteering to take her around Singapore and yes, special thanks to Alvin for being her 'personal' tour guide!!
Friday, July 06, 2007
Unity is Strength
In the animal kingdom, often it is the survial of the fittest as that is how all living things survie in this food chain. This footage clearly depicts and brings out the message that unity is strength and do not undermine the power of this strength which can either break or save a life.
Check out this battle of the species and you will understand why.
Check out this battle of the species and you will understand why.
The Run of the Year....
Goodie. The Safra Sheares bridge run is up for registration. Yes, I am all ready for this run on Aug 26. As per the previous year, the starting point will kick off at the Esplanade bridge. However, the ending point will be at the Marina Promenade. Lovely! Interested runners can sign up at www.safra.sg/sbs
Wednesday, July 04, 2007
Love Equals Hate
No wonder people always say LOVE too much and it will becomes HATE. Hmm...how true. Mirror never lies...so does LOVE equates to HATE? You got to see this for yourself......
How my day usually starts.....
This is how my day starts......
6.30am: Body awakes (mind not awake though)and debating whether to jog or swim
6.45am: Out of the house to get my loads of endorphines
7.45am: Back home and wash up (both body and mind finally awake)
8.00am: Switch on machine to check emails
8.30am: Stared at wardrobe wondering what to wear
8.40am: Pack bag
9.00am: Grab a drink, say goodbye to my Mum and leave house
And yes, I begin another day of exciting (if not, I will try to make it exciting) day. Cut across my apartment to catch bus 859 to Sembawang MRT (it takes about 15 mins waiting time, so I tried not to miss it). Board the train at 9.20am and another 45 mins journey of people-watching (interesting!!!) on the packed-like sardine-train. Reached Raffles Place MRT around 10.15am and again, cut across the underground, up the escalator and finally reached the office.
12.00pm: Grab a quick bite (don't know whether I called it my brunch or my lunch) and a cuppa, do some kaypo-ying and yes...work work and work. (wohoo!!!)
5.00pm: Tired eyes and body and decided to call it a day. Pack my machine and retrace the morning walk back to the train station. Then start to plan the route in my mind where I decide to jog later in the evening and kick start another load of endorphines(always looking forward to it).
Another day in my normal working life.
6.30am: Body awakes (mind not awake though)and debating whether to jog or swim
6.45am: Out of the house to get my loads of endorphines
7.45am: Back home and wash up (both body and mind finally awake)
8.00am: Switch on machine to check emails
8.30am: Stared at wardrobe wondering what to wear
8.40am: Pack bag
9.00am: Grab a drink, say goodbye to my Mum and leave house
And yes, I begin another day of exciting (if not, I will try to make it exciting) day. Cut across my apartment to catch bus 859 to Sembawang MRT (it takes about 15 mins waiting time, so I tried not to miss it). Board the train at 9.20am and another 45 mins journey of people-watching (interesting!!!) on the packed-like sardine-train. Reached Raffles Place MRT around 10.15am and again, cut across the underground, up the escalator and finally reached the office.
12.00pm: Grab a quick bite (don't know whether I called it my brunch or my lunch) and a cuppa, do some kaypo-ying and yes...work work and work. (wohoo!!!)
5.00pm: Tired eyes and body and decided to call it a day. Pack my machine and retrace the morning walk back to the train station. Then start to plan the route in my mind where I decide to jog later in the evening and kick start another load of endorphines(always looking forward to it).
Another day in my normal working life.
Tuesday, July 03, 2007
Lovely Locks
Mirror mirror on the wall, who's the prettiest of them all? A bad hair day for you, no more as shown by this beast...
Ticket to World Cup?
Ever wondered what you will sacrifice to get that ticket to World Cup? Here is what one man will do.....thanks MM for sharing this.
Friday, June 29, 2007
A Ghost Story......
Hmm...I have been thinking lately whether I should or should not write a ghost story for the past few days. Afterall, I am a horror fan and loves anything that has gore and horror in it. Yes, debating with me, myself and Lilian and still debating.
Ok. I was kind of attracted by the Straits Time 'Scariest Ghost Story' competition and was thinking of giving it a shot. I have heard some real life ghost stories in the past. Stories from my army guy friends in Pulau Tekong, my uncle's real encounter with a female ghost, my mum telling me about Pontianak when I was young and yes, watching MTV Utt hosting the 'Incredible Tales' (although I must admit I watched the show more for Utt..hehe). However, it gets a bit tricky as I have not personally encounter any scary stuff for the past 30 years (even the scary shows in cinemas ain't scary abit...). I was thinking of some encounters that will freak readers out, you know, those kind that will make your hair stand and send shivers down one's spine...yes...those kind of experience is what I need to write a real ghost story and walk away with the prize! (grinning)
I have read books by horror writer Goh Sin Tub and always find it unbelieveable. Unbelieveable in a sense that I ain't sure whether it is really true or that man sure has a wonderful imagination. Anyway, the price for the 'Scariest Ghost Story' doesn't look that lucrative to me...hmmm....but if anyone got any paranormal encounters to share, this might help to stimulate some creative juices in me and FREAK me out.
I think I will make use of the weekends to 'interview' some of my friends on this...hehe...FREAKY!!!
Ok. I was kind of attracted by the Straits Time 'Scariest Ghost Story' competition and was thinking of giving it a shot. I have heard some real life ghost stories in the past. Stories from my army guy friends in Pulau Tekong, my uncle's real encounter with a female ghost, my mum telling me about Pontianak when I was young and yes, watching MTV Utt hosting the 'Incredible Tales' (although I must admit I watched the show more for Utt..hehe). However, it gets a bit tricky as I have not personally encounter any scary stuff for the past 30 years (even the scary shows in cinemas ain't scary abit...). I was thinking of some encounters that will freak readers out, you know, those kind that will make your hair stand and send shivers down one's spine...yes...those kind of experience is what I need to write a real ghost story and walk away with the prize! (grinning)
I have read books by horror writer Goh Sin Tub and always find it unbelieveable. Unbelieveable in a sense that I ain't sure whether it is really true or that man sure has a wonderful imagination. Anyway, the price for the 'Scariest Ghost Story' doesn't look that lucrative to me...hmmm....but if anyone got any paranormal encounters to share, this might help to stimulate some creative juices in me and FREAK me out.
I think I will make use of the weekends to 'interview' some of my friends on this...hehe...FREAKY!!!
Part Science, Part Stunts
If you are game for some 'fun' experiments with Science and you like to see things getting 'BLOWN' up, Brainiac is the right show for you! Brainiac is definitely a fun and entertaining show for those who just can't help reliving their science experiments back in school (except that now you recalled back, those experiments we done in school are really just chicken feat). It's a crazy yet wonderful show to watch.....who knows, you could be the next Albert Einstein!!!
Tuesday, June 26, 2007
Where were you when he needed you??!!!
It was quite depressing to read that young 17 years old triathele Thaddeus Cheong collapsed and died after crossing the finishing line. What was even shocking that NO paramedics were present when he collapsed. Pardon my ignorance, but even in most schools' cross country or marathons, there is always a first-aid team standby just in case something happened to somebody. So, why is this basic requisite of having a paramedic team NOT available in the first place? The young man could have been saved by the milliseconds if the medic team was just around the corner.
And what bothers me most is this statement made by TAS. Quoted in the article, 'The Triathlon Association of Singapore (TAS) said although there were no medical personnel on site, the coaches present were all trained in first-aid.'
So, did the coaches not render first aid to the young man when they saw him collapsed or they were not available at the scene at the point of time when he collapsed? Such tragedy should not be happening in the first place. Someone's life could have been saved if precautions were carefully taken and executed in such events.
The Cheong family has lost a son and Singapore has lost a potential triathelete.
And what bothers me most is this statement made by TAS. Quoted in the article, 'The Triathlon Association of Singapore (TAS) said although there were no medical personnel on site, the coaches present were all trained in first-aid.'
So, did the coaches not render first aid to the young man when they saw him collapsed or they were not available at the scene at the point of time when he collapsed? Such tragedy should not be happening in the first place. Someone's life could have been saved if precautions were carefully taken and executed in such events.
The Cheong family has lost a son and Singapore has lost a potential triathelete.
Monday, June 25, 2007
Runner's Dilemma?
I did not know what got into me but I was up at 5am this morning to do a solid 1 hour run around my neighbourhood. It seems the body was kind of awakened by a call to 'Get up, get out and RUN'. To many people, they would rather catch up on that few extra hours of sleep on a Monday morning rather than hitting the pavement and perspiring at 5am in the morning.
The air was refreshing, no traffic, my body and legs were feeling good and yes, it was an awesome run and definitely a good one. I was reading one of a runner's blog and came across what he called a runner's dilema? What exactly is the runner's dilema? He must run, no matter what shape or situation he is in. The dilemma is finding a resolution despite being older, fatter, slower than when running was graceful. How true this is.
Also ever heard of the Runner's High? For those of you unfamiliar with the runner’s high, I would encourage you to seek it out as part of your training. It’s a mental state of relaxation partnered with a mild pain cessation that occurs after 60-90 minutes of steady exercise. I find it truly euphoric, setting me in a state of eternal optimism that can last hours after a run......
Now for some good breakfast!!! :)
The air was refreshing, no traffic, my body and legs were feeling good and yes, it was an awesome run and definitely a good one. I was reading one of a runner's blog and came across what he called a runner's dilema? What exactly is the runner's dilema? He must run, no matter what shape or situation he is in. The dilemma is finding a resolution despite being older, fatter, slower than when running was graceful. How true this is.
Also ever heard of the Runner's High? For those of you unfamiliar with the runner’s high, I would encourage you to seek it out as part of your training. It’s a mental state of relaxation partnered with a mild pain cessation that occurs after 60-90 minutes of steady exercise. I find it truly euphoric, setting me in a state of eternal optimism that can last hours after a run......
Now for some good breakfast!!! :)
Small Town Girl, Big Time Adventure
The iconic girl detective is back again, after disappearing from the scene for ages. This time round, Nancy Drew (Emma Roberts) is back as a nerdishly yet demure snoop(she sure is pretty cute for a nerd)as she accompanies her father to Los Angeles to investigate a long-unsolved mystery involving the death of a beautiful movie starlet.
Definitely a pleasing and refreshing update of a character who has gone missing in the prints since 1978. And what I like about the show is everything about Nancy is retro especially the blue 1959 roadster driven by the sleuth...slick and retro...yeah baby!! If you have read Nancy Drew's book since young (I grew up reading her books and the Hardy boys too), this movie would have been quite enjoyable although if the plot can be tweaked a bit more to make it more thrilling, that would definitely be more interesting.
Yeah, you go girl!
Friday, June 22, 2007
Getting out there
This whole week I took a long run around my new neighbourhood - the lovely Sembawang for 4 consecutive days. The run took me about an hour each and for the next 3 days, I took an abbreviated version of the same run again. It was a great run and definitely very exciting as the momentum starts building up, the endorphins start setting in and yes, I feel so much lighter.
Call me a sucker for running, I have been hitting the tracks since 1998. From an alternate day jog to a daily run and it has become a routine of mine since that day. It was quite unfortunate that because of this daily run, my right knee has suffered some bad injury over the past few years and I can see signs of slowing down when the pain sets in after the 3rd lap. Nevertheless, I hope I am recuperating well enough to take part in the Sheares Bridge and Standard Chartered run again this year.
Running is definitely an exercise which I will not be giving up yet, I guess even when I am older, I would still want to continue running - for life!. Also it seems like the more I exercise the hungrier I become....:)
Call me a sucker for running, I have been hitting the tracks since 1998. From an alternate day jog to a daily run and it has become a routine of mine since that day. It was quite unfortunate that because of this daily run, my right knee has suffered some bad injury over the past few years and I can see signs of slowing down when the pain sets in after the 3rd lap. Nevertheless, I hope I am recuperating well enough to take part in the Sheares Bridge and Standard Chartered run again this year.
Running is definitely an exercise which I will not be giving up yet, I guess even when I am older, I would still want to continue running - for life!. Also it seems like the more I exercise the hungrier I become....:)
Friday, June 15, 2007
Transformers, Robots in Disguise
The beast machines are back in action in the cinema! Yes, i remembered watching the Transformers with my brother when I was young and singing to the tune of 'Transformers, robots in disguise....' (if I could still remembered the rest of the lyrics). Back in my younger days, the Transformers was the most-watched television show in my house in line with other popular shows like the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Smurfs and Scooby Doo (Scooby Doo was my favourite!). However, at that age, i could never really understand a single thing in the show except for the fact that I go WOW everytime they transformed into a robot. And my brother had to remind me everytime I watched the show 'Decepticons hate Autobots. Optimus Prime, the heroic red Mack truck, led the Autobots and wished one day the Decepticons would cease their evil ways. Megatron, the fancy pistol, was the leader of the Decepticons, and he cursed the goody-goody Autobots and their constructive outlook on life.' (Yeah, as though I can understand what he said at that age...haha)
In Transformers, the rules were clear. According to the Transformers Armada story line, while the Autobots and Decepticons battle for control of their home planet Cybertron, a signal reaches them from a distant planet, revealing the existence of the Mini-Con robots. This lost race of transformers has awakened after centuries of hibernation on Earth. The Autobots and Decepticons race to Earth each hoping to find the Mini-Cons first so they can partner with them and gain powerful new abilities. At my younger age, I would think that it's really amazing and incredible to think that everyone could transform from a vehicle -- or cassette tape or gun or dinosaur, in some cases -- into a robot.
How I wish that one day, we can be transformed into something too whenever we feel like it (Hah! Dream on Lilian!!!)
Catch the trailer here for all Transformers fans!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zZp75fWe-ss
Wednesday, June 13, 2007
Atom Ant, my all time favourite Superhero
Atom Ant as it's name suggested is a superpowered mutated ant. It can detect distress on its antenna and ever see an ant fly??!! Yes, this ant can fly. It's a bird, it's a plane, nooooooooo....it's ATOM ANT!! (move aside superman) It possess superstrength which it derives from atomic energy and it's powers mostly consisted of the ability to fly, superspeed, and amazing strength.
And do you know Atom Ant was the first four limbed talking superhero/insect to walk on hind legs!!! Sometimes, I feel like I am Atom Ant (minus the ability to fly) working at amazing speed and carrying stuff which are way beyond my imagination and size.
ANTM Cycle 7
I managed to catch a glimpse of the 'America's Next Top Model Cycle 7' last Sunday night (gasps!!!). I have been an avid fan of Tyra Bank's reality TV show eversince they started broadcasting America's Next top model Cycle 2, but somehow, last Sunday show was a disappointment.
There were very limited choices to choose between the icy queen Melrose and the loose cannon Caridee, who both hated each other obviously (as usual in most reality TV show like ANTM). I guess the standard of each contestant has dropped with every cycle and yes, less bitching in cycle 7 too. Again, I would seriously like Ms Jay to consider pumping more male hormones in 'heshe'.... (hehehe)
Well, at least one thing I do agree with the judges is the winner - Caridee. (this episode is not out yet, but I knew she was the winner). I'm not surprised as I think she deserves it more than Melrose simply because she has a better personality than Melrose. Yay!
And Tyra Banks - she looks younger in every ANTM Cycle. Oh my god!!!
Friday, June 01, 2007
All Good Things
I came across another nice song by Nelly Furtado lately. It's called 'All Good Things' and again, meaningful lyrics especially the chorus portion. Check out her Video here - ALL GOOD THINGS.
All Good Things lyrics by Nelly Furtado.
Honestly what will become of me
don't like reality
It's way too clear to me
But really life is daily
We are what we don't see
Missed everything daydreaming
[Chorus]
Flames to dust
Lovers to friends
Why do all good things come to an end
Flames to dust
Lovers to friends
Why do all good things come to an end
come to an end come to an
Why do all good things come to end?
come to an end come to an
Why do all good things come to an end?
Traveling I only stop at exits
Wondering if I'll stay
Young and restless
Living this way I stress less
I want to pull away when the dream dies
The pain sets in and I don't cry
I only feel gravity and I wonder why
Flames to dust
Lovers to friends
Why do all good things come to an end
Flames to dust
Lovers to friends
Why do all good things come to an end
[ All Good Things lyrics found on http://www.completealbumlyrics.com ]
come to an end come to an
Why do all good things come to end?
come to an end come to an
Why do all good things come to an end?
Well the dogs were whistling a new tune
Barking at the new moon
Hoping it would come soon so that they could
Dogs were whistling a new tune
Barking at the new moon
Hoping it would come soon so that they could
Die die die die die
Flames to dust
Lovers to friends
Why do all good things come to an end
Flames to dust
Lovers to friends
Why do all good things come to an end
come to an end come to an
Why do all good things come to end?
come to an end come to an
Why do all good things come to an end?
Well the dogs were barking at a new moon
Whistling a new tune
Hoping it would come soon
And the sun was wondering if it should stay away for a day til the feeling went away
And the sky was falling on the clouds were dropping and
the rain forgot how to bring salvation
the dogs were barking at the new moon
Whistling a new tune
Hoping it would come soon so that they could die.
All Good Things lyrics by Nelly Furtado.
Honestly what will become of me
don't like reality
It's way too clear to me
But really life is daily
We are what we don't see
Missed everything daydreaming
[Chorus]
Flames to dust
Lovers to friends
Why do all good things come to an end
Flames to dust
Lovers to friends
Why do all good things come to an end
come to an end come to an
Why do all good things come to end?
come to an end come to an
Why do all good things come to an end?
Traveling I only stop at exits
Wondering if I'll stay
Young and restless
Living this way I stress less
I want to pull away when the dream dies
The pain sets in and I don't cry
I only feel gravity and I wonder why
Flames to dust
Lovers to friends
Why do all good things come to an end
Flames to dust
Lovers to friends
Why do all good things come to an end
[ All Good Things lyrics found on http://www.completealbumlyrics.com ]
come to an end come to an
Why do all good things come to end?
come to an end come to an
Why do all good things come to an end?
Well the dogs were whistling a new tune
Barking at the new moon
Hoping it would come soon so that they could
Dogs were whistling a new tune
Barking at the new moon
Hoping it would come soon so that they could
Die die die die die
Flames to dust
Lovers to friends
Why do all good things come to an end
Flames to dust
Lovers to friends
Why do all good things come to an end
come to an end come to an
Why do all good things come to end?
come to an end come to an
Why do all good things come to an end?
Well the dogs were barking at a new moon
Whistling a new tune
Hoping it would come soon
And the sun was wondering if it should stay away for a day til the feeling went away
And the sky was falling on the clouds were dropping and
the rain forgot how to bring salvation
the dogs were barking at the new moon
Whistling a new tune
Hoping it would come soon so that they could die.
Wednesday, May 30, 2007
This is Good night and not goodbye
Goodbye old house.
Well, I am just 11 hours plus away from the big move. Most of our things are in boxes (tons and tons of boxes) and there are boxes waiting to be filled when we finally leave. We had spent a wonderful almost 6 months in this house (not counting the time back in year 2004 when we first moved in here). This is the house that has brought back some good memories (my close friends are just one block down the street, my favourite fried rice is just a 10mins walk from my house, my favourite stadium where I do my morning jog, the swimming pool which kept me swimming like a fish always over the weekends...I could go on and on, but sadly...I know it's time to leave).
We have put lots of love into this house with our decorations and improving this and that. It feels weird leaving some place that you have gotten so used to for something new and unfamiliar. But I guess, changes are inevitable and so is the moving. Tomorrow (May 31), around this time, we will be moving into a new place, to make new memories in.
Nobody seems to be sad except me and I am sure on moving day when it comes to closing the door for the last time I will be more sad then I am at this moment. Living in this house, I was only about a mile away from where I grew up when i was young. It was actually within walking distance. Now I keep telling my mom that we should come back more often to eat the fried rice...
Hmm..this reminds me of a song which my squadmates used to sing during my NPCC (National Police Cadet Corps) days. It's called 'Linger' and it goes like this..
Hm hm, I want to linger here,
hm hm, a little longer here,
hmhm, a little longer here with you.
Hm hm, it's such a perfect night,
hm hm, it doesn't seems quite right,
hm hm, this is my last night here with you.
Hm hm, and as the years goes by,
hm hm, I think of you and cry,
hm hm, this is good night and not good bye.'
Well, I am just 11 hours plus away from the big move. Most of our things are in boxes (tons and tons of boxes) and there are boxes waiting to be filled when we finally leave. We had spent a wonderful almost 6 months in this house (not counting the time back in year 2004 when we first moved in here). This is the house that has brought back some good memories (my close friends are just one block down the street, my favourite fried rice is just a 10mins walk from my house, my favourite stadium where I do my morning jog, the swimming pool which kept me swimming like a fish always over the weekends...I could go on and on, but sadly...I know it's time to leave).
We have put lots of love into this house with our decorations and improving this and that. It feels weird leaving some place that you have gotten so used to for something new and unfamiliar. But I guess, changes are inevitable and so is the moving. Tomorrow (May 31), around this time, we will be moving into a new place, to make new memories in.
Nobody seems to be sad except me and I am sure on moving day when it comes to closing the door for the last time I will be more sad then I am at this moment. Living in this house, I was only about a mile away from where I grew up when i was young. It was actually within walking distance. Now I keep telling my mom that we should come back more often to eat the fried rice...
Hmm..this reminds me of a song which my squadmates used to sing during my NPCC (National Police Cadet Corps) days. It's called 'Linger' and it goes like this..
Hm hm, I want to linger here,
hm hm, a little longer here,
hmhm, a little longer here with you.
Hm hm, it's such a perfect night,
hm hm, it doesn't seems quite right,
hm hm, this is my last night here with you.
Hm hm, and as the years goes by,
hm hm, I think of you and cry,
hm hm, this is good night and not good bye.'
Monday, May 21, 2007
I'm Moving Again
Yes, I am moving again. Not suprising to those who knew me. I would think I have shifted house many times as compared to anyone in Singapore (unless you are talking about someone on the run from bad debts..haha). The first time I shifted house was from my 4 room apartment at Jalan Rajah (Balastier Road) which I had grown up since young to a 5 room HDB flat in Toa Payoh. (My parents got the house through balloting and you can say they were lucky at the first shot!) A few years later, after my brother got married and I thought I could have his bigger room all to myself, my parents decided to downgrade to a 4 room flat in Sengkang. After staying there for less than 2 years, we are back again at Toa Payoh temporarily and this time round, we are moving further away. Yes, my next home will be in Sembawang. A nice little cosy 4 room HDB (very much like a condo-style design minus the swimming pool...shucks!) with a good bird eye's view facing the Straits of Johor. See,I am so close to our neighbours!!!
And yes, it's finally happening again. That time of the year to lug boxes of my belongings from one end of Singapore to another via a lorry. The thing is I have radically reduced the number of my belongings (to throw or not to throw dilemma has once again surfaced). All my clothes will fit into my 3 large suitcases. The only huge items are my computer, my toy-car collection and yes, all my soft toys (I have hundreds of this furry stuff which after much deliberation, I have decided to keep it and not throw away. Bring back those good old memories).
Moi will be shifting on Vesak day - May 31. Yup..moving to a new home with new curtains, new sofa, new bed, new LCD TV...well, practically, everything is new for me. A new start in good old Sembawang!
And yes, it's finally happening again. That time of the year to lug boxes of my belongings from one end of Singapore to another via a lorry. The thing is I have radically reduced the number of my belongings (to throw or not to throw dilemma has once again surfaced). All my clothes will fit into my 3 large suitcases. The only huge items are my computer, my toy-car collection and yes, all my soft toys (I have hundreds of this furry stuff which after much deliberation, I have decided to keep it and not throw away. Bring back those good old memories).
Moi will be shifting on Vesak day - May 31. Yup..moving to a new home with new curtains, new sofa, new bed, new LCD TV...well, practically, everything is new for me. A new start in good old Sembawang!
On fifty-percent recovery path...
I can't imagine I have downed about 14 cups of herbal tea since morning...cups after cups of black and bitter herbal tea which I am still forcing myself to drink at this moment. (wonder if anybody has got this recorded down in the World Guiness Book of Record..hehe). Yes, the throat is feeling much better than it was last night. Last night, I felt as though I was literally in 'HELL' and my body was like burning.
I really hate it when my body starts to feel lifeless and limp, not to mention I have to avoid eating solid food for the next few days. Poor me,I tend to feel sorry for myself whenever I fall sick. It's as though as I have deprived myself of food, fun and exercise. I guess my body is screaming for a 'detox'. Yes, I need to do that!
Back at work, luckily, there isn't much things ongoing on Monday and I could take a breather every now and then. Hope Howard is doing fine too, he's got a sore throat too. My brain ain't functioning that well today.. (could be the side-effects of drinking too much herbal stuff..haha..whatever it is). I can't remember when was the last time I was sick. It must be the weather or the food I have ate recently that has caused the heat to build up in me.
Still, I am happy that I am 50% on the path to recovery....
I really hate it when my body starts to feel lifeless and limp, not to mention I have to avoid eating solid food for the next few days. Poor me,I tend to feel sorry for myself whenever I fall sick. It's as though as I have deprived myself of food, fun and exercise. I guess my body is screaming for a 'detox'. Yes, I need to do that!
Back at work, luckily, there isn't much things ongoing on Monday and I could take a breather every now and then. Hope Howard is doing fine too, he's got a sore throat too. My brain ain't functioning that well today.. (could be the side-effects of drinking too much herbal stuff..haha..whatever it is). I can't remember when was the last time I was sick. It must be the weather or the food I have ate recently that has caused the heat to build up in me.
Still, I am happy that I am 50% on the path to recovery....
Sunday, May 20, 2007
Yes, I caved in
The weather has been scorching hot for the past few weeks with the occassional rain in the afternoon. And yes, I caved in to the weather today....it was as though as I have fallen into a pot of hot cooking oil and despite soaking myself in the pool the whole morning, I caved in to what was about to follow aftermath. A bad sorethroat (hard to swallow any food) and a sudden rise in body temperature...I could feel my head getting heavier with each moment...Argh....I think I am about to hit the sack and hopefully I will be back in top condition tomorrow.
I hate falling asick, can't eat, can't do much thing except sleep and worst of all, can't do any workout. Sigh....I keep telling myself it's all in the mind. Just tell yourself you will be well soon and you will be! I must be like AtomAnt (hehe..my cartoon hero)...
Ok...my eyelids are getting heavy now and the throat is feeling funny again....so with this, I am signing out till the next time. I will be back for sure.
I hate falling asick, can't eat, can't do much thing except sleep and worst of all, can't do any workout. Sigh....I keep telling myself it's all in the mind. Just tell yourself you will be well soon and you will be! I must be like AtomAnt (hehe..my cartoon hero)...
Ok...my eyelids are getting heavy now and the throat is feeling funny again....so with this, I am signing out till the next time. I will be back for sure.
Wednesday, May 02, 2007
My new LOVE!
Lately, I have been thinking of getting the HP IPAQ -
Looks cute, cool and I think I badly need a PDA to keep track of my calendar and appointments (I guess my memory gets fried on some days...haha). Hmm......I am still looking and asking around for advise, so far, I have not had any bad reviews on this phone yet. Well, see how it goes. Gadgets - either you love it or you just hate it!
LOVE 2007!
The rain came, yet it did not dampened the mood of those who have been waiting for this biggest community event of the year. Yes, the LOVE Launch 2007 kicked off on
April 28 and we saw 140+ participants flocking in on that wet Saturday. Thanks to all community experts, MVPs (you know who you guys are) and also MS folks for adding the 'magic' to this event and making it a reality and success.
Warrior of The Light
A friend shared this with me... thought it can be quite useful. If you are interested to read more of the author's work, the link is
http://www.warriorofthelight.com/engl/index.html
Manual for climbing mountains
A)Choose the mountain you want to climb: Don't pay attention to what other people say, such as that one is more beautiful or this one is easier. You'll be spending lots of energy and enthusiasm to reach your objective, so you're the only one responsible and you should be sure of what you are doing.
B) Know how to get close to it: mountains are often seen from far off are beautiful, interesting, full of challenges. But what happens when we try to draw closer? Roads run all around them, flowers grow between you and your objective, what seemed so clear on the map is tough in real life. So try all the paths and all the tracks until eventually one day you are standing in front of the top that you yearn to reach.
C) Learn from someone who has already been up there: no matter how unique you feel, there is always someone who has had the same dream before you and ended up leaving marks that can make your journey easier; places to hang the rope, trails, broken branches to make the walking easier. The climb is yours, so is the responsibility, but don't forget that the experience of others can help a lot.
D) When seen up close, dangers are controllable: when you begin to climb the mountain of your dreams, pay attention to the surroundings. There are cliffs, of course. There are almost imperceptible cracks in the mountain rock. There are stones so polished by storms that they have become as slippery as ice. But if you know where you are placing each footstep, you will notice the traps and how to get around them.
E) The landscape changes, so enjoy it: of course, you have to have an objective in mind to reach the top. But as you are going up, more things can be seen, and it's no bother to stop now and again and enjoy the panorama around you. At every meter conquered, you can see a little further, so use this to discover things that you still had not noticed.
F) Respect your body: you can only climb a mountain if you give your body the attention it deserves. You have all the time that life grants you, as long as you walk without demanding what cannot be granted. If you go too fast you will grow tired and give up half way there. If you go too slow, night will fall and you will be lost. Enjoy the scenery, take delight in the cool spring water and the fruit that nature generously offers you, but keep on walking.
G) Respect your soul: Don't keep repeating I'm going to make it. Your soul already knows that, what it needs is to use the long journey to be able to grow, stretch along the horizon, touch the sky. An obsession does not help you at all to reach your objective, and even ends up taking the pleasure out of the climb. But pay attention: also, don't keep saying it's harder than I thought, because that will make you lose your inner strength.
H)Be prepared to climb one kilometer more: the way up to the top of the mountain is always longer than you think. Don't fool yourself, the moment will arrive when what seemed so near is still very far. But since you were prepared to go beyond, this is not really a problem.
I) Be happy when you reach the top: cry, clap your hands, shout to the four winds that you did it, let the wind - the wind is always blowing up there - purify your mind, refresh your tired and sweaty feet, open your eyes, clean the dust from your heart. It feels so good, what was just a dream before, a distant vision, is now part of your life, you did it!
J) Make a promise: now that you have discovered a force that you were not even aware of, tell yourself that from now on you will use this force for the rest of your days. Preferably, also promise to discover another mountain, and set off on another adventure.
K) Tell your story: yes, tell your story! Give your example. Tell everyone that it is possible, and other people will then have the courage to face their own mountains.
http://www.warriorofthelight.com/engl/index.html
Manual for climbing mountains
A)Choose the mountain you want to climb: Don't pay attention to what other people say, such as that one is more beautiful or this one is easier. You'll be spending lots of energy and enthusiasm to reach your objective, so you're the only one responsible and you should be sure of what you are doing.
B) Know how to get close to it: mountains are often seen from far off are beautiful, interesting, full of challenges. But what happens when we try to draw closer? Roads run all around them, flowers grow between you and your objective, what seemed so clear on the map is tough in real life. So try all the paths and all the tracks until eventually one day you are standing in front of the top that you yearn to reach.
C) Learn from someone who has already been up there: no matter how unique you feel, there is always someone who has had the same dream before you and ended up leaving marks that can make your journey easier; places to hang the rope, trails, broken branches to make the walking easier. The climb is yours, so is the responsibility, but don't forget that the experience of others can help a lot.
D) When seen up close, dangers are controllable: when you begin to climb the mountain of your dreams, pay attention to the surroundings. There are cliffs, of course. There are almost imperceptible cracks in the mountain rock. There are stones so polished by storms that they have become as slippery as ice. But if you know where you are placing each footstep, you will notice the traps and how to get around them.
E) The landscape changes, so enjoy it: of course, you have to have an objective in mind to reach the top. But as you are going up, more things can be seen, and it's no bother to stop now and again and enjoy the panorama around you. At every meter conquered, you can see a little further, so use this to discover things that you still had not noticed.
F) Respect your body: you can only climb a mountain if you give your body the attention it deserves. You have all the time that life grants you, as long as you walk without demanding what cannot be granted. If you go too fast you will grow tired and give up half way there. If you go too slow, night will fall and you will be lost. Enjoy the scenery, take delight in the cool spring water and the fruit that nature generously offers you, but keep on walking.
G) Respect your soul: Don't keep repeating I'm going to make it. Your soul already knows that, what it needs is to use the long journey to be able to grow, stretch along the horizon, touch the sky. An obsession does not help you at all to reach your objective, and even ends up taking the pleasure out of the climb. But pay attention: also, don't keep saying it's harder than I thought, because that will make you lose your inner strength.
H)Be prepared to climb one kilometer more: the way up to the top of the mountain is always longer than you think. Don't fool yourself, the moment will arrive when what seemed so near is still very far. But since you were prepared to go beyond, this is not really a problem.
I) Be happy when you reach the top: cry, clap your hands, shout to the four winds that you did it, let the wind - the wind is always blowing up there - purify your mind, refresh your tired and sweaty feet, open your eyes, clean the dust from your heart. It feels so good, what was just a dream before, a distant vision, is now part of your life, you did it!
J) Make a promise: now that you have discovered a force that you were not even aware of, tell yourself that from now on you will use this force for the rest of your days. Preferably, also promise to discover another mountain, and set off on another adventure.
K) Tell your story: yes, tell your story! Give your example. Tell everyone that it is possible, and other people will then have the courage to face their own mountains.
Monday, April 23, 2007
My Fantasy at Night..
What are fantasies? Have you ever fantasise about something or somebody?? I am pretty sure most of us will have such fantasies everynow and then. Since I am now in the midst of a late conference call, if and only if my favourite model (America Top Model Jon Johnson) is here with me...it will be surreal!!! Sweet dreams....
Sunday, April 15, 2007
Tourista = Horror?
Tourista certaintly caught my eye when I saw the preview for this movie in the cinema.Besides the gore and some horror scenes, I was definitely expecting more than just that. I really love scary and horror movies (don't ask me why, but I just love it), however, this movie was rather disappointing or at least it didn't satisfy me at all or got me freak out.
It was mentioned by critics that Tourista will be better and scarier than Hostel (for those who did not watch Hostel, this is really a good show to freak you out) which was not at all in the case. A very mediocre plot with some good looking actress though. The flaw was that the horror part was too short to actually called it a horror show. However, it was partially compensated by lots of skimply dressed actress (to the delight of my partner), a great and lovely beach and a lovely river with underground caves. This movie does have it's potential, just need a little more fine tuning in making the horror portion longer.
For those who are going to catch Tourista over the weekends, it is basically a horror movie about American tourists in Brazil and some really bad things happened to them when their bus crashed and they were forced to take a detour......and yes, that is when the so-called 'horror' begins... (I won't ruin it further for those who haven't seen it yet)
PS: Now, I am wondering if Brazil should be my next tourist vacation. :P
It was mentioned by critics that Tourista will be better and scarier than Hostel (for those who did not watch Hostel, this is really a good show to freak you out) which was not at all in the case. A very mediocre plot with some good looking actress though. The flaw was that the horror part was too short to actually called it a horror show. However, it was partially compensated by lots of skimply dressed actress (to the delight of my partner), a great and lovely beach and a lovely river with underground caves. This movie does have it's potential, just need a little more fine tuning in making the horror portion longer.
For those who are going to catch Tourista over the weekends, it is basically a horror movie about American tourists in Brazil and some really bad things happened to them when their bus crashed and they were forced to take a detour......and yes, that is when the so-called 'horror' begins... (I won't ruin it further for those who haven't seen it yet)
PS: Now, I am wondering if Brazil should be my next tourist vacation. :P
Tuesday, April 10, 2007
Not my day....
I guess I am suffering from the post Monday blue syndromes. My Tuesday did not turn out as well as I wanted to. Well...pretty down today actually
A bad start to the day:
1. Nope, I did not wake up on the wrong side of the bed. Rather, I couldn't get any sleep at all the whole night till about 5plus am before I managed to catch a few winks. Reason: It was hot and stuffy eventhough the air-con was on in my bedroom.
Dragged myself down to office at around 9pm and looked like a zombie when I arrive at work.
2. Just when I thought my day could not be that bad, my machine went crazy and refuse to grant me access to the internal websites which I needed so badly for my work. In the end, I had to make a trip down to the IT guys in my office to get it checked. Yes, luckily it was repaired, it worked and it saved my day (at least).
Reason: Unknown because I did not ask the guy what happened.
Well, what could be worst than not being able to access the files/folders I needed for my work. Had a good curry chicken lunch with MVP Darren. This young man is sure chatty and full of energy (if only you hear what his plans are for the upcoming months....what was I doing at his age???!!!).
The worst was yet to come....
3. Later that afternoon, I was informed by a colleague that a project that we were both working on for the past 6 months had to stop for FY08. Apparently, instructions came down from the top. Yikes!!!
Reason: Unknown at this point of time until I attend the meeting.
Stared blankly at my machine while still trying to digest the news I just heard. We were almost 3/4 through to pushing that project out and now??!!!!
Well, knock off at 5 plus and decided to go for a good run to relieve my pent up feelings for the day. Alas, it had to rain!!! Rainy days always make one moody and at that instant, I was plunged into a melancholy mood...sigh sigh..
Tomorrow, yes I can;t wait till tomorrow because tomorrow will be a better day. I am very sure of that and I will make sure it will be better than today.
Of course, I still have tonight to cherish. I think I am going to indulge myself in a sinful vanila walls ice-cream and sit myself in front of my TV for the rest of the night. No checking of mails tonight. :)
A bad start to the day:
1. Nope, I did not wake up on the wrong side of the bed. Rather, I couldn't get any sleep at all the whole night till about 5plus am before I managed to catch a few winks. Reason: It was hot and stuffy eventhough the air-con was on in my bedroom.
Dragged myself down to office at around 9pm and looked like a zombie when I arrive at work.
2. Just when I thought my day could not be that bad, my machine went crazy and refuse to grant me access to the internal websites which I needed so badly for my work. In the end, I had to make a trip down to the IT guys in my office to get it checked. Yes, luckily it was repaired, it worked and it saved my day (at least).
Reason: Unknown because I did not ask the guy what happened.
Well, what could be worst than not being able to access the files/folders I needed for my work. Had a good curry chicken lunch with MVP Darren. This young man is sure chatty and full of energy (if only you hear what his plans are for the upcoming months....what was I doing at his age???!!!).
The worst was yet to come....
3. Later that afternoon, I was informed by a colleague that a project that we were both working on for the past 6 months had to stop for FY08. Apparently, instructions came down from the top. Yikes!!!
Reason: Unknown at this point of time until I attend the meeting.
Stared blankly at my machine while still trying to digest the news I just heard. We were almost 3/4 through to pushing that project out and now??!!!!
Well, knock off at 5 plus and decided to go for a good run to relieve my pent up feelings for the day. Alas, it had to rain!!! Rainy days always make one moody and at that instant, I was plunged into a melancholy mood...sigh sigh..
Tomorrow, yes I can;t wait till tomorrow because tomorrow will be a better day. I am very sure of that and I will make sure it will be better than today.
Of course, I still have tonight to cherish. I think I am going to indulge myself in a sinful vanila walls ice-cream and sit myself in front of my TV for the rest of the night. No checking of mails tonight. :)
Wednesday, March 28, 2007
30th Birthday
Yikes! I turned 30 years old on Mar 24.
I must say it turned out pretty well with a cute little bitsy ‘Mr Ernie’ birthday cake for making it to 30 and still looking 20 (just leave this statement alone). :)
Anyway, I did received many greetings that day from friends and even ex-colleagues (thanks folks for remembering it). Some has a few words to say like; "Don’t think of it as 30 years old. Think of it as 3 decades", "No more change on the three red dollar bills for you now that you are 30 years old" and "30 is the new 20s. You earned it, so enjoy!!!".
For those not yet 30, know that the pain is temporary. The week leading up to and then the culmination on birthday day is painful but the next morning it's all gone...and sadly so are your 20's.
PS: That is the reason why I choose not to post this blog on my birthday. :P
I must say it turned out pretty well with a cute little bitsy ‘Mr Ernie’ birthday cake for making it to 30 and still looking 20 (just leave this statement alone). :)
Anyway, I did received many greetings that day from friends and even ex-colleagues (thanks folks for remembering it). Some has a few words to say like; "Don’t think of it as 30 years old. Think of it as 3 decades", "No more change on the three red dollar bills for you now that you are 30 years old" and "30 is the new 20s. You earned it, so enjoy!!!".
For those not yet 30, know that the pain is temporary. The week leading up to and then the culmination on birthday day is painful but the next morning it's all gone...and sadly so are your 20's.
PS: That is the reason why I choose not to post this blog on my birthday. :P
Friday, March 23, 2007
Farewell Dinner to Yifan
Yifan, one of my volleyball kaki and college friend is leaving for Doha this saturday. He will be stationed in Doha for one year. Together with the rest of the volleyball kakis, we had a farewell dinner with him at Waraku Jap restaurant. After 13 years of friendship, it's kinda sad to see him go. He is one of the livewire in our volleyball team. Yifan, we are all going to miss your noise and your 'sisterhood' companion and many many more! If you are reading my blog, remember your promise to fly all of us on a private jetplane to Doha. (you can't run away from us). I am proud to present my group of volleyball kakis whom we have known for 13 years and we are all still going strong.
In case you are wondering who is Yifan, he is the second guy from the top right table.
Thursday, March 22, 2007
Snow Day
Some good memories of the few of us who can't wait to kick start the summit festivities properly, with a snow day of skiing, snowboarding, tubing and sledding.
Taken at 'The Summit at Snoqualmie'.
Wednesday, March 21, 2007
Slow Down Culture - An Interesting reflection
This is an interesting article as well as a great reflection to many of us who are living evidence in this race against time society.
--------------------------------------------------
It's been 18 years since I joined Volvo, a Swedish company. Working for them has proven to be an interesting experience. Any project here takes 2 years to be finalized, even if the idea is simple and brilliant. It's a rule.
Globalize processes have caused in us (all over the world) a general sense of searching for immediate results. Therefore, we have come to posses a need to see immediate results. This contrasts greatly with the slow movements of the Swedish. They, on the other hand, debate, debate, debate, hold x quantity of meetings and work with a slowdown scheme. At the end, this always yields better results.
Said in another words:
1. Sweden is about the size of San Pablo, a state in Brazil.
2. Sweden has 2 million inhabitants.
3. Stockholm, has 500,000 people.
4. Volvo, Escania, Ericsson, Electrolux, Nokia are some of its renowned companies. Volvo supplies the NASA.
The first time I was in Sweden, one of my colleagues picked me up at the hotel every morning. It was September, bit cold and snowy. We would arrive early at the company and he would park far away from the entrance (2000 employees drive their car to work). The first day, I didn't say anything, either the second or third. One morning I asked, "Do you have a fixed parking space? I've noticed we park far from the entrance even when there are no other cars in the lot." To which he replied, "Since we're here early we'll have time to walk, and whoever gets in late will be late and need a place closer to the door. Don't you think?" Imagine my face.
Nowadays, there's a movement in Europe name Slow Food. This movement establishes that people should eat and drink slowly, with enough time to taste their food, spend time with the family, friends, without rushing. Slow Food is against its counterpart: the spirit of Fast Food and what it stands for as a lifestyle. Slow Food is the basis for a bigger movement called Slow Europe, as mentioned by Business Week.
Basically, the movement questions the sense of "hurry" and "craziness" generated by globalization, fueled by the desire of "having in quantity" (life status) versus "having with quality", "life quality" or the "quality of being". French people, even though they work 35 hours per week, are more productive than Americans or British. Germans have established 28.8 hour workweeks and have seen their productivity been driven up by 20%. This slow attitude has brought forth the US's attention, pupils of the fast and the "do it now!".
This no-rush attitude doesn't represent doing less or having a lower productivity. It means working and doing things with greater quality, productivity, perfection, with attention to detail and less stress. It means reestablishing family values, friends, free and leisure time. Taking the "now", present and concrete, versus the "global", undefined and anonymous. It means taking humans' essential values, the simplicity of living.
It stands for a less coercive work environment, more happy, lighter and more productive where humans enjoy doing what they know best how to do. It's time to stop and think on how companies need to develop serious quality with no-rush that will increase productivity and the quality of products and services, without losing the essence of spirit.
In the movie, Scent of a Woman, there's a scene where Al Pacino asks a girl to dance and she replies, "I can't, my boyfriend will be here any minute now". To which Al responds, "A life is lived in an instant". Then they dance to a tango.
Many of us live our lives running behind time, but we only reach it when we die of a heart attack or in a car accident rushing to be on time. Others are so anxious of living the future that they forget to live the present, which is the only time that truly exists. We all have equal time throughout the world. No one has more or less. The difference lies in how each one of us does with our time. We need to live each moment. As John Lennon said, "Life is what happens to you while you're busy making other plans".
Congratulations for reading till the end of this message. There are many who will have stopped in the middle so as not to waste time in this globalized world.
--------------------------------------------------
It's been 18 years since I joined Volvo, a Swedish company. Working for them has proven to be an interesting experience. Any project here takes 2 years to be finalized, even if the idea is simple and brilliant. It's a rule.
Globalize processes have caused in us (all over the world) a general sense of searching for immediate results. Therefore, we have come to posses a need to see immediate results. This contrasts greatly with the slow movements of the Swedish. They, on the other hand, debate, debate, debate, hold x quantity of meetings and work with a slowdown scheme. At the end, this always yields better results.
Said in another words:
1. Sweden is about the size of San Pablo, a state in Brazil.
2. Sweden has 2 million inhabitants.
3. Stockholm, has 500,000 people.
4. Volvo, Escania, Ericsson, Electrolux, Nokia are some of its renowned companies. Volvo supplies the NASA.
The first time I was in Sweden, one of my colleagues picked me up at the hotel every morning. It was September, bit cold and snowy. We would arrive early at the company and he would park far away from the entrance (2000 employees drive their car to work). The first day, I didn't say anything, either the second or third. One morning I asked, "Do you have a fixed parking space? I've noticed we park far from the entrance even when there are no other cars in the lot." To which he replied, "Since we're here early we'll have time to walk, and whoever gets in late will be late and need a place closer to the door. Don't you think?" Imagine my face.
Nowadays, there's a movement in Europe name Slow Food. This movement establishes that people should eat and drink slowly, with enough time to taste their food, spend time with the family, friends, without rushing. Slow Food is against its counterpart: the spirit of Fast Food and what it stands for as a lifestyle. Slow Food is the basis for a bigger movement called Slow Europe, as mentioned by Business Week.
Basically, the movement questions the sense of "hurry" and "craziness" generated by globalization, fueled by the desire of "having in quantity" (life status) versus "having with quality", "life quality" or the "quality of being". French people, even though they work 35 hours per week, are more productive than Americans or British. Germans have established 28.8 hour workweeks and have seen their productivity been driven up by 20%. This slow attitude has brought forth the US's attention, pupils of the fast and the "do it now!".
This no-rush attitude doesn't represent doing less or having a lower productivity. It means working and doing things with greater quality, productivity, perfection, with attention to detail and less stress. It means reestablishing family values, friends, free and leisure time. Taking the "now", present and concrete, versus the "global", undefined and anonymous. It means taking humans' essential values, the simplicity of living.
It stands for a less coercive work environment, more happy, lighter and more productive where humans enjoy doing what they know best how to do. It's time to stop and think on how companies need to develop serious quality with no-rush that will increase productivity and the quality of products and services, without losing the essence of spirit.
In the movie, Scent of a Woman, there's a scene where Al Pacino asks a girl to dance and she replies, "I can't, my boyfriend will be here any minute now". To which Al responds, "A life is lived in an instant". Then they dance to a tango.
Many of us live our lives running behind time, but we only reach it when we die of a heart attack or in a car accident rushing to be on time. Others are so anxious of living the future that they forget to live the present, which is the only time that truly exists. We all have equal time throughout the world. No one has more or less. The difference lies in how each one of us does with our time. We need to live each moment. As John Lennon said, "Life is what happens to you while you're busy making other plans".
Congratulations for reading till the end of this message. There are many who will have stopped in the middle so as not to waste time in this globalized world.
Tuesday, March 20, 2007
MVPs Galore!
It has been a great week networking and meeting up with 38 SEA MVPs who have taken the time off their work to fly to Seattle for the yearly 2007 MVP Global Summit. It's great seeing most of you and yes, I am so glad that the Sri Lanka MVPs were able to make it (I got to see my foodiekarma and he is going strong)!! For memories, this is for all of you.
Monday, March 12, 2007
Beautiful Women Month...lovely
Someone just reminded me that it's Beautiful Women month! Wow...I did not know that at all. Thanks Mag for sharing this. And to all women out there (whether you are a wife to your husband, daughter to your parents, sister to your brother blar blar blar), below is a wonderful poem Audrey Hepburn wrote when asked to share her "beauty tips." It was read at her funeral years later.
For attractive lips, speak words of kindness..
For lovely eyes, seek out the good in people.
For a slim figure, share your food with the hungry
For beautiful hair, let a child run his/her fingers through it once a day
For poise, walk with the knowledge that you never walk alone...
People, even more than things, have to be restored, renewed, revived, reclaimed and redeemed; never throw out anyone.
Remember, if you ever need a helping hand, you will find one at the end of each of your arms.
As you grow older,you will discover that you have two hands; one for helping yourself, and the other for helping others.
Blogging from the rainy Seattle.
For attractive lips, speak words of kindness..
For lovely eyes, seek out the good in people.
For a slim figure, share your food with the hungry
For beautiful hair, let a child run his/her fingers through it once a day
For poise, walk with the knowledge that you never walk alone...
People, even more than things, have to be restored, renewed, revived, reclaimed and redeemed; never throw out anyone.
Remember, if you ever need a helping hand, you will find one at the end of each of your arms.
As you grow older,you will discover that you have two hands; one for helping yourself, and the other for helping others.
Blogging from the rainy Seattle.
Wednesday, March 07, 2007
LOVE STUNT!
The WOW experience took place on Feb 14 and thanks to MVP Wee Hyong, he managed to get this article featured in the March 2007 NETA APAC newsletter. Also Kudos to the effort from the INETA volunteers in China and Korea, they have managed to publish the newsletter in 3 languages!
LOVE STUNT in English
LOVE STUNT in Chinese
LOVE STUNT in Korea
LOVE STUNT in English
LOVE STUNT in Chinese
LOVE STUNT in Korea
Friday, February 23, 2007
I am PG-13 Rated.
This is er hem....interesting. Just thought I tested myself on this to see what are the results.
| Your Mind is PG-13 Rated |
 Your mind is definitely a little dirty. You're naughty, but not trashy. You don't shy away from a dirty joke, and you're clearly not a prude. |
What Mythological creature are you?
Taken from a friend, try this!
| You Are a Mermaid |
 You are a total daydreamer, and people tend to think you're flakier than you actually are. While your head is often in the clouds, you'll always come back to earth to help someone in need. Beyond being a caring person, you are also very intelligent and rational. You understand the connections of the universe better than almost anyone else. |
Wednesday, February 21, 2007
Remembering Grandma
My grandma came to stay with us during the CNY period, as per the previous years. She was sent to a nursing home a few years back due to a stroke as my uncles thought that it would be better for her to remain under the care of nurses rather than getting a maid. We would visit her over the weekends and bring along her favourite chicken rice for her to indulge once a while. This CNY, it was a total different experience as it was the first time, my parents and I were spending CNY with my grandma by staying at her house.
I had very vivid images of my grandma since young. My first memories of my grandma was when I first tasted her pot of mouth-watering chicken curry and that has got me drooling and my eyes lighted up everytime grandma declared, 'Come to my house for chicken curry tonight'. It was one of those special delights which I craved for as a kid. Due to her old age and failing eyesight, my grandma has retired from her 'chicken curry cooking' session and I still missed it until this day.
At that time, my grandma's house was a 3 room flat in Kim Keat. I remember the paint peeling from her wall in the kitchen. I remember her house smelled like her with all the medical plaster and ointment. I remember she never had an unkind thing to say in front of the grandkids. I remember stories of my mother and grandmother picking the hair from the birdnest when my mother was young.
For the past 4 days, grandma stayed with us and we took care of her like she used to take care of us when we were kids. She has difficulties in walking and has to rely on a crutch to move around. Even though, she was just happy to be able to spend the CNY with her children and grandchildren, watching TV and just enjoying each and every moment with all of us. I am sure we too felt the same with her presence.
Today, we sent grandma back to the nursing home. As I held her arm and led her to the crutches, she thanked me and told me that if I am busy, I need not visit her that often. A sudden surge of emotion overwhelmed me. I felt sad that she has to go back to the nursing home and guilty that I have not spent much time visiting her as often as I should. To my grandma, she could not have asked for more than to spend her remaining time with her children and grandchildren. (she is 74 years old this year)
As I held her soft hands and led her to the car, I told her to take care of herself and she nodded. As I see her back fading away, I felt so sad. Just thinking about what she said to me earlier makes me teary eyed. I can still feel her soft hands, I can hear her laughter.
If someone were to ask me what was the best CNY I ever had, besides receiving ang baos and indulging in the goodies, the answer is actually very sinple: spending time with my grandma during the CNY was something special and more than I can ask for. Thanks grandma!
I had very vivid images of my grandma since young. My first memories of my grandma was when I first tasted her pot of mouth-watering chicken curry and that has got me drooling and my eyes lighted up everytime grandma declared, 'Come to my house for chicken curry tonight'. It was one of those special delights which I craved for as a kid. Due to her old age and failing eyesight, my grandma has retired from her 'chicken curry cooking' session and I still missed it until this day.
At that time, my grandma's house was a 3 room flat in Kim Keat. I remember the paint peeling from her wall in the kitchen. I remember her house smelled like her with all the medical plaster and ointment. I remember she never had an unkind thing to say in front of the grandkids. I remember stories of my mother and grandmother picking the hair from the birdnest when my mother was young.
For the past 4 days, grandma stayed with us and we took care of her like she used to take care of us when we were kids. She has difficulties in walking and has to rely on a crutch to move around. Even though, she was just happy to be able to spend the CNY with her children and grandchildren, watching TV and just enjoying each and every moment with all of us. I am sure we too felt the same with her presence.
Today, we sent grandma back to the nursing home. As I held her arm and led her to the crutches, she thanked me and told me that if I am busy, I need not visit her that often. A sudden surge of emotion overwhelmed me. I felt sad that she has to go back to the nursing home and guilty that I have not spent much time visiting her as often as I should. To my grandma, she could not have asked for more than to spend her remaining time with her children and grandchildren. (she is 74 years old this year)
As I held her soft hands and led her to the car, I told her to take care of herself and she nodded. As I see her back fading away, I felt so sad. Just thinking about what she said to me earlier makes me teary eyed. I can still feel her soft hands, I can hear her laughter.
If someone were to ask me what was the best CNY I ever had, besides receiving ang baos and indulging in the goodies, the answer is actually very sinple: spending time with my grandma during the CNY was something special and more than I can ask for. Thanks grandma!
Thursday, February 15, 2007
Que Sera Sera
When I was very young (i think around the age of 8), my mum taught me this song and since then, it has been deeply ingrained in my mind. The tune is catchy and when I sing the song, I always changed it to my own name to make it more realistic. (haha...thinking about that now makes me laugh). Looking back at how far I have come and what the future beholds, I sometimes sing the song to myself before I go to bed. This song will always be a song between my mum and me.
Que Sera Sera
When I was just a little girl
I asked my mother, what will I be
Will I be pretty, will I be rich
Here's what she said to me.
Que Sera, Sera,
Whatever will be, will be
The future's not ours, to see
Que Sera, Sera
What will be, will be.
When I was young, I fell in love
I asked my sweetheart what lies ahead
Will we have rainbows, day after day
Here's what my sweetheart said.
Que Sera, Sera,
Whatever will be, will be
The future's not ours, to see
Que Sera, Sera
What will be, will be.
Now I have children of my own
They ask their mother, what will I be
Will I be handsome, will I be rich
I tell them tenderly.
Que Sera, Sera,
Whatever will be, will be
The future's not ours, to see
Que Sera, Sera
What will be, will be.
Que Sera Sera
When I was just a little girl
I asked my mother, what will I be
Will I be pretty, will I be rich
Here's what she said to me.
Que Sera, Sera,
Whatever will be, will be
The future's not ours, to see
Que Sera, Sera
What will be, will be.
When I was young, I fell in love
I asked my sweetheart what lies ahead
Will we have rainbows, day after day
Here's what my sweetheart said.
Que Sera, Sera,
Whatever will be, will be
The future's not ours, to see
Que Sera, Sera
What will be, will be.
Now I have children of my own
They ask their mother, what will I be
Will I be handsome, will I be rich
I tell them tenderly.
Que Sera, Sera,
Whatever will be, will be
The future's not ours, to see
Que Sera, Sera
What will be, will be.
Fear Factor - Are you Game for it?
I love watching Fear Factor. I love the show. I watch it whenever I can and I think the contestants must be either money crazy or just simply nuts to be willing to do such stunts! Nevertheless, this is a nerve racking, sick and digusting show which I just love it!
"Imagine a world where your greatest fears become reality. In each pulse-racing "Fear Factor" episode, contestants recruited across the country battle in extreme stunts. These stunts are designed to challenge the contestants both physically and mentally. If a player is too afraid to complete or fails a stunt, the player is eliminated. If they succeed, they are one step closer to the grand prize: $50,000."
And searching, I found a series of Fear Factor special editions which looks er hem, very interesting. And adding to that series of Fear Factor editions, perhaps we could throw in the 'Office Colleagues Fear Factor!' Anyone game for it?
"Imagine a world where your greatest fears become reality. In each pulse-racing "Fear Factor" episode, contestants recruited across the country battle in extreme stunts. These stunts are designed to challenge the contestants both physically and mentally. If a player is too afraid to complete or fails a stunt, the player is eliminated. If they succeed, they are one step closer to the grand prize: $50,000."
And searching, I found a series of Fear Factor special editions which looks er hem, very interesting. And adding to that series of Fear Factor editions, perhaps we could throw in the 'Office Colleagues Fear Factor!' Anyone game for it?
The story about the Pesky Squirrels
A good laugh from a friend.
There were five houses of worship in a small TEXAS town: The Presbyterian Church , the Baptist Church , the MethodistChurch, the Catholic Church and the Jewish Synagogue.
Each church was overrun with pesky squirrels. One day, the Presbyterian Church called a meeting to decide what to do about the squirrels. After much prayer and consideration they determined that the squirrels were predestined to be there and they shouldn't interfere with God's divine will.. They left them be.
In The Baptist church the squirrels had taken up habitation in the baptistery. The deacons met and decided to put a cover on the baptistery and soak the squirrels in it by way of baptising them. The squirrels escaped somehow and there were twice as many there the next week.
The Methodist Church got together and decided that they were not in a position to harm any of God's creation. So, they humanely trapped the Squirrels and set them free a few miles outside of town. Three days later, the squirrels were back.
But The Catholic church came up with a most effective solution. They baptized the squirrels and registered them as members of the church. Now they only see them on Christmas and Easter.
Not much was heard about the Jewish Synagogue, but they took one squirrel and had a short service with him called 'circumcision' and they haven't seen a squirrel on the property since.
There were five houses of worship in a small TEXAS town: The Presbyterian Church , the Baptist Church , the MethodistChurch, the Catholic Church and the Jewish Synagogue.
Each church was overrun with pesky squirrels. One day, the Presbyterian Church called a meeting to decide what to do about the squirrels. After much prayer and consideration they determined that the squirrels were predestined to be there and they shouldn't interfere with God's divine will.. They left them be.
In The Baptist church the squirrels had taken up habitation in the baptistery. The deacons met and decided to put a cover on the baptistery and soak the squirrels in it by way of baptising them. The squirrels escaped somehow and there were twice as many there the next week.
The Methodist Church got together and decided that they were not in a position to harm any of God's creation. So, they humanely trapped the Squirrels and set them free a few miles outside of town. Three days later, the squirrels were back.
But The Catholic church came up with a most effective solution. They baptized the squirrels and registered them as members of the church. Now they only see them on Christmas and Easter.
Not much was heard about the Jewish Synagogue, but they took one squirrel and had a short service with him called 'circumcision' and they haven't seen a squirrel on the property since.
Friday, February 09, 2007
The LOVE Month
Roses are red, violets are blue, sugar is sweet and so are you. Sounds familar, sounds mushy? Yeah, all of us (at least once in a lifetime in our romance-eager teenage years) will receive the V-card with such wordings in it and I am pretty sure some of us are still receiving it up to today (of cause minus the mushy wordings).
Red roses, dark chocolate, stuffed animals, mushy cards, heart and cupid cutouts... Don't look now, but it's going to be that red-letter day again soon! Here comes Valentine's, that time of year that sends some to Cloud 9 and banishes others to depression. Whichever category you belong to, do not fret cos the LOVE month is for everyone.
Everyone knows that February is the month of love due to Valentines Day, but it is also the month of LOVE (Say it with me: The Month of Luuuv) as Microsoft Worldwide launches the Windows Vista and Office 2007 with a whopping blast! We think you’ll like it. We’re hoping you’ll love it!
So, celebrate the LOVE month not just with your love ones, but also with Microsoft!
The "WOW" Starts Now!
"The way to love anything is to realize that it might be lost." (G. K. Chesterton)
Red roses, dark chocolate, stuffed animals, mushy cards, heart and cupid cutouts... Don't look now, but it's going to be that red-letter day again soon! Here comes Valentine's, that time of year that sends some to Cloud 9 and banishes others to depression. Whichever category you belong to, do not fret cos the LOVE month is for everyone.
Everyone knows that February is the month of love due to Valentines Day, but it is also the month of LOVE (Say it with me: The Month of Luuuv) as Microsoft Worldwide launches the Windows Vista and Office 2007 with a whopping blast! We think you’ll like it. We’re hoping you’ll love it!
So, celebrate the LOVE month not just with your love ones, but also with Microsoft!
The "WOW" Starts Now!
"The way to love anything is to realize that it might be lost." (G. K. Chesterton)
Friday, February 02, 2007
Fort Minor Lyrics
This is still one of the top music hits on my list now. The lyrics are very meaningful. I just love Holly Brooks!
FORT MINOR LYRICS
Where'd you go?
I miss you so,
Seems like it's been forever,
That you've been gone.
She said "Some days I feel like shit,
Some days I wanna quit, and just be normal for a bit,"
I don't understand why you have to always be gone,
I get along but the trips always feel so long,
And, I find myself trying to stay by the phone,
'Cause your voice always helps me to not feel so alone,
But I feel like an idiot, workin' my day around the call,
But when I pick up I don't have much to say,
So, I want you to know it's a little fucked up,
That I'm stuck here waitin', at times debatin',
Tellin' you that I've had it with you and your career,
Me and the rest of the family here singing "Where'd you go?"
I miss you so,
Seems like it's been forever,
That you've been gone.
Where'd you go?
I miss you so,
Seems like it's been forever,
That you've been gone,
Please come back home...
You know the place where you used to live,
Used to barbecue up burgers and ribs,
Used to have a little party every Halloween with candy by the pile,
But now, you only stop by every once and a while,
Shit, I find myself just fillin' my time,
With anything to keep the thought of you from my mind,
I'm doin' fine, I plan to keep it that way,
You can call me if you find that you have something to say,
And I'll tell you, I want you to know it's a little fucked up,
That I'm stuck here waitin', at times debatin',
Tellin' you that I've had it with you and your career,
Me and the rest of the family here singing "Where'd you go?"
I miss you so,
Seems like it's been forever,
That you've been gone.
Where'd you go?
I miss you so,
Seems like it's been forever,
That you've been gone,
Please come back home...
I want you to know it's a little fucked up,
That I'm stuck here waitin', no longer debatin',
Tired of sittin' and hatin' and makin' these excuses,
For why you're not around, and feeling so useless,
It seems one thing has been true all along,
You don't really know what you've got 'til it's gone,
I guess I've had it with you and your career,
When you come back I won't be here and you can sing it...
Where'd you go?
I miss you so,
Seems like it's been forever,
That you've been gone.
Where'd you go?
I miss you so,
Seems like it's been forever,
That you've been gone,
Please come back home...
Please come back home...
Please come back home...
Please come back home...
Please come back home...
FORT MINOR LYRICS
Where'd you go?
I miss you so,
Seems like it's been forever,
That you've been gone.
She said "Some days I feel like shit,
Some days I wanna quit, and just be normal for a bit,"
I don't understand why you have to always be gone,
I get along but the trips always feel so long,
And, I find myself trying to stay by the phone,
'Cause your voice always helps me to not feel so alone,
But I feel like an idiot, workin' my day around the call,
But when I pick up I don't have much to say,
So, I want you to know it's a little fucked up,
That I'm stuck here waitin', at times debatin',
Tellin' you that I've had it with you and your career,
Me and the rest of the family here singing "Where'd you go?"
I miss you so,
Seems like it's been forever,
That you've been gone.
Where'd you go?
I miss you so,
Seems like it's been forever,
That you've been gone,
Please come back home...
You know the place where you used to live,
Used to barbecue up burgers and ribs,
Used to have a little party every Halloween with candy by the pile,
But now, you only stop by every once and a while,
Shit, I find myself just fillin' my time,
With anything to keep the thought of you from my mind,
I'm doin' fine, I plan to keep it that way,
You can call me if you find that you have something to say,
And I'll tell you, I want you to know it's a little fucked up,
That I'm stuck here waitin', at times debatin',
Tellin' you that I've had it with you and your career,
Me and the rest of the family here singing "Where'd you go?"
I miss you so,
Seems like it's been forever,
That you've been gone.
Where'd you go?
I miss you so,
Seems like it's been forever,
That you've been gone,
Please come back home...
I want you to know it's a little fucked up,
That I'm stuck here waitin', no longer debatin',
Tired of sittin' and hatin' and makin' these excuses,
For why you're not around, and feeling so useless,
It seems one thing has been true all along,
You don't really know what you've got 'til it's gone,
I guess I've had it with you and your career,
When you come back I won't be here and you can sing it...
Where'd you go?
I miss you so,
Seems like it's been forever,
That you've been gone.
Where'd you go?
I miss you so,
Seems like it's been forever,
That you've been gone,
Please come back home...
Please come back home...
Please come back home...
Please come back home...
Please come back home...
A day without Coffee?
I was craving for a cup of coffee to perk myself up this morning and I asked myself what will happen if one day, coffee was to vanish from the earth?
Thursday, February 01, 2007
Excuse me, can you park?
I must admit that when it comes to parallel parking, I suck at it. When it comes to parking, I would never choose to do parallel parking if I have a choice. And if worst come to worst, I will have to ensure that there are at least 2 empty spaces (one in front and another behind) before i will do parallel parking.
So, do you think you can do Parallel Parking? Check this 'How's My Parking' first before you make your conclusion.
So, do you think you can do Parallel Parking? Check this 'How's My Parking' first before you make your conclusion.
Wednesday, January 31, 2007
Of Paintball and Muscle Aches
A pit of team work, strategy and intelligence as we caught some of the Singapore MVPs in action and perspiration at the Crossfire Paintball! Yes, the folks came and they "shoot" their hearts out. Divided into 2 teams, the Green team and the Black team (Although I harbour the thought of choosing a more stylo name for the team, something like 'Titan' and not just names like black or green...ah heck).
It was indeed a well fought 'battle' as the 2 teams pitted against one another in 3 rounds of the game. Alas, it was a draw after the scores were tallied. Based on my analysis, the Black team emphasis was more on strategy (2 defenders, 3 attackers and up we move)whereas for the Green team, it seems that their objective was "Attack! Die Black team, die!" (hahaha). Well, regardless of whatever kind of strategy or mentality was adopted for each team, I am pretty sure all of us had fun. (Poor Dennis who was looking high and low for me to shoot...but neh, better chance next time hah).
Despite the muscle aches and bruises aftermath, I must say it was indeed a great work-out and a good way to chill out for our 'IT-savvy MVPs'. Game for more??
Friday, January 19, 2007
Disco Dance Fever
I was having a discussion with my friend last night and we came to an agreed consensus that nowadays, the songs that are being played by the DJs in pubs totally cannot make it. When we said 'cannot make it', it literally means that one finds it hard to dance to the tune of it. I have a good compliation of the 70s - 80s dance fever music and I would strongly recommend it to any of the DJs for them to spin it.
Some good 70s/80s dance hits which we have listed on the top of our chart
- ABBA's "Dancing Queen"
- ABBA " Gimme! Gimme! Gimme! (A Man After Midnight)"
- Billy Joel's "We Didn't Start The Fire"
- Don McLean's "American Pie"
- Kylie Minogue ''The Locomotion"
- A-ha "Take on Me"
- Bananarama "Love in the First Degree"
- Billy Joel "UpTown Girl"
- Culture Club "Karma Chameleon"
- DeBarge "Rhythm of the Night"
I must say the 70's/80's was a fantastic era for dance though... and I can still remember some of the steps to this day ! On that note, it's good to have a Retro-theme party once a while and everybody can just dance to the rhythm of the night....yeah
Thursday, January 18, 2007
In honor of Sor
I happened to meet up with a friend today after 3 years of losing contact with each other. We had lost each other's mobile and although I have tried asking around for her contact a few years back, it seems nobody has any idea. Eventually I gave up looking and searching. Today was different. She was just coming out from her manicure appointment (erhem, who is having a good life now?) and we happened to bump into each other. (I find her very familar looking and she stopped to look at me..and yes, as we all know, the rest is history). So, we happily sat down for a cuppa and boy did we chat like we have never chatted before. (it felt like the good old days again hah, or am I getting old? hehe).
I have always wondered about what makes a good friend for most of my life I guess. In my working experiences since I entered the work force at age 21, I have seen supposedly good friends come and go. Friends who have clubbed with me since my University days (the so called 'clubbing kakis'), friends who have shared my fair share of happiness and sorrow, friends who made it a point to rush down in the wee hours when you needed them....where are you, my dear friends? I have deceived myself into thinking some people were better friends than they really were. And when I've recognized that they were not what I thought, I was extremely disappointed.
Now what defines a good friend? This really depends on the individual. But for myself, it would have to mean someone whom you can share your ups and downs, dislikes and likes, and changes as we move on in this battle of life. And when we do this sharing, regardless of how wrong or stupid that we might be, our friend still cares for us.
So for this entry today, I honor this friend of mine - Sor (that's her surname). I am glad we have found each other after 3 years and yes, let's cherish this friendship.
I have always wondered about what makes a good friend for most of my life I guess. In my working experiences since I entered the work force at age 21, I have seen supposedly good friends come and go. Friends who have clubbed with me since my University days (the so called 'clubbing kakis'), friends who have shared my fair share of happiness and sorrow, friends who made it a point to rush down in the wee hours when you needed them....where are you, my dear friends? I have deceived myself into thinking some people were better friends than they really were. And when I've recognized that they were not what I thought, I was extremely disappointed.
Now what defines a good friend? This really depends on the individual. But for myself, it would have to mean someone whom you can share your ups and downs, dislikes and likes, and changes as we move on in this battle of life. And when we do this sharing, regardless of how wrong or stupid that we might be, our friend still cares for us.
So for this entry today, I honor this friend of mine - Sor (that's her surname). I am glad we have found each other after 3 years and yes, let's cherish this friendship.
Thursday, January 11, 2007
I've been Tagged!
All right, I've been tagged by Mei Ying and this means I've got to share 5 personal details with you folks that you do not know about. Hmm....it means revealing the little bits of me in the blog. Well, I guess everything has it's first time. Take a breathe and here it goes.
1. The most pathetic day of my life was the day I lost my luggage in Amsterdam. I was on a 1 month vacation with my friends in Europe back in 1999. On the second last day of my last leg in Amsterdam, my luggage was stolen from the hotel. I was left with only my passport, camera and some money which was in the haversack bag which I was carrying with me. All my personal items and gifts which I have bought throughout the 1 month tour in Europe was all gone. Imagine I had to borrow clothes from my friends on my return journey to Singapore and the sorry state I was in. Nevertheless, the claim made from my insurance company could not compensate the terrible feeling I had gone through in Amsterdam.
2. I was born with yellow looking skin. Yikes! Accordingly to my mum, when I was born, I was yellow-looking (a condition refer to as jaundice) and the nurse told my mum that she has to put me under the sun for an hour every day. I guess that's why I embraced the sun so much when I grew up. Nowadays, jaundice is a very common condition in newborns.
3. I don''t read musical notes. Only a few of my friends who knows me personally knows that I can play the piano/keyboard without reading notes. (but only with one hand). In other words, I just need to listen to any music, sit down and I am able to play the melody to the songs which I have just heard. Since I started learning to play by ear at the age of 8, my fingers just seem to anticipate where the next note is going to be, even if my eyes haven't quite caught up. My parents sent me for piano lessons when they saw my ability in this. However, I couldn't stand sitting still for that 1hour lesson and was always fidgeting. In the end, I had to call it a day with my piano teacher. You don't have to become an expert at playing by ear, but if you practice until you can do it a little bit, it will greatly improve your sight reading capabilities!
4. I have a fetish for ironing, and abhor wearing anything unless it is ironed.
5. My fondest memories were the days back in my junior college. I can truly say I spent some of the best years of my life. Speaking English all the time during the Chinese classes, "sculling" Judy Loh's PE classes, getting excited whenever the next door secret crush walks by.......the memories are endless. To me, it's a great institution that has produced some great students.
And now, it's my turn to tag someone! I am going for my one and only dearest kuzzin, triathelete Andy Tay, the famous softwaremaker, my junior Cherrie and my all-time good friend since secondary school days Jessica.
1. The most pathetic day of my life was the day I lost my luggage in Amsterdam. I was on a 1 month vacation with my friends in Europe back in 1999. On the second last day of my last leg in Amsterdam, my luggage was stolen from the hotel. I was left with only my passport, camera and some money which was in the haversack bag which I was carrying with me. All my personal items and gifts which I have bought throughout the 1 month tour in Europe was all gone. Imagine I had to borrow clothes from my friends on my return journey to Singapore and the sorry state I was in. Nevertheless, the claim made from my insurance company could not compensate the terrible feeling I had gone through in Amsterdam.
2. I was born with yellow looking skin. Yikes! Accordingly to my mum, when I was born, I was yellow-looking (a condition refer to as jaundice) and the nurse told my mum that she has to put me under the sun for an hour every day. I guess that's why I embraced the sun so much when I grew up. Nowadays, jaundice is a very common condition in newborns.
3. I don''t read musical notes. Only a few of my friends who knows me personally knows that I can play the piano/keyboard without reading notes. (but only with one hand). In other words, I just need to listen to any music, sit down and I am able to play the melody to the songs which I have just heard. Since I started learning to play by ear at the age of 8, my fingers just seem to anticipate where the next note is going to be, even if my eyes haven't quite caught up. My parents sent me for piano lessons when they saw my ability in this. However, I couldn't stand sitting still for that 1hour lesson and was always fidgeting. In the end, I had to call it a day with my piano teacher. You don't have to become an expert at playing by ear, but if you practice until you can do it a little bit, it will greatly improve your sight reading capabilities!
4. I have a fetish for ironing, and abhor wearing anything unless it is ironed.
5. My fondest memories were the days back in my junior college. I can truly say I spent some of the best years of my life. Speaking English all the time during the Chinese classes, "sculling" Judy Loh's PE classes, getting excited whenever the next door secret crush walks by.......the memories are endless. To me, it's a great institution that has produced some great students.
And now, it's my turn to tag someone! I am going for my one and only dearest kuzzin, triathelete Andy Tay, the famous softwaremaker, my junior Cherrie and my all-time good friend since secondary school days Jessica.
Wednesday, January 10, 2007
The Arena!
I was impressed by the variety show 'The Arena' - http://ch5.mediacorptv.com/shows/variety/view/1384/1/.html which was aired on TV on Jan 9. Yesterday's show was not just a battle of the wits between the so-called 'neighbourhood school' Vs the 'Special Assistance Plan (SAP) school', coincidentally it was also a battle of the sexes. What caught my eye was the motion, which I must said was an interesting one - 'Does having good looks equate to a better job, better life and better performance?'
What really got me engrossed was how the 2 teams cited many good examples of some celebrities in the entertainment industry who are getting more endorsements from companies due to their good looks rather than their skills. Celebrities such as David Beckham, Julia Roberts, Tom Cruise, Brad Pitt etc were being used as good debate examples in the 1 hour battle of wits and intelligence, not forgetting how animated and dramatic some of the debators were when putting their point forward.
David Beckham/Julia Roberts might be considered good looking to many of us out there, but to some, perharps the boy or girl next door is the apple of their eye. And let's just say having good looks and hardwork have to complement each other. It' just like beer and peanuts which are complements of one another, if one is missing, the equation will be flawed.
I have said this many times to many of my dear friends 'Beauty lies in the eyes of the beholder'. Perharps, after some time, all the so-called good looking babes/hunks will look the same to you. That is when inner beauty plays the role in helping to differentiate between the 'devil' and the 'angel'. Something worth pondering?
What really got me engrossed was how the 2 teams cited many good examples of some celebrities in the entertainment industry who are getting more endorsements from companies due to their good looks rather than their skills. Celebrities such as David Beckham, Julia Roberts, Tom Cruise, Brad Pitt etc were being used as good debate examples in the 1 hour battle of wits and intelligence, not forgetting how animated and dramatic some of the debators were when putting their point forward.
David Beckham/Julia Roberts might be considered good looking to many of us out there, but to some, perharps the boy or girl next door is the apple of their eye. And let's just say having good looks and hardwork have to complement each other. It' just like beer and peanuts which are complements of one another, if one is missing, the equation will be flawed.
I have said this many times to many of my dear friends 'Beauty lies in the eyes of the beholder'. Perharps, after some time, all the so-called good looking babes/hunks will look the same to you. That is when inner beauty plays the role in helping to differentiate between the 'devil' and the 'angel'. Something worth pondering?
Friday, January 05, 2007
I am busy? Are you?
How often have we heard someone saying 'I'm very busy today' when you ask them how's work etc? I MSN a friend of mine the other day and she was going 'Very busy today leh'. How do we define busy? Happily busy or is it miserable busy? Jerry Seinfield once quoted "I am so busy doing nothing... that the idea of doing anything - which as you know, always leads to something - cuts into the nothing and then forces me to have to drop everything.” Well, whatever that means. :) I would assume that when one says one is busy, it must be something that is keeping one so occupied that one can hardly take a break from whatever one's doing.
Well, I am not going to ask for your definition of busy as I am busy right now typing this entry. (hahaha)
Well, I am not going to ask for your definition of busy as I am busy right now typing this entry. (hahaha)
Wednesday, January 03, 2007
My resolution for the new year?
After giving it some thoughts, I have decided to list down some of the goals which I would think it's achievable for this year.
1. To munch more vegetables like a cow rather than gouge on that bowl of pig's organ soup
2. To listen more to the sounds of nature rather than my MP3 collection
3. To hit the wide open spaces in my neighbourhood park like a sack rather than confined myself within the running track
4. To see more of the world rather than the 29 inch goggle box at home.
And of course, wouldn't it just make sense to just continue to indulge in whatever things I like to do, eat and play.
1. To munch more vegetables like a cow rather than gouge on that bowl of pig's organ soup
2. To listen more to the sounds of nature rather than my MP3 collection
3. To hit the wide open spaces in my neighbourhood park like a sack rather than confined myself within the running track
4. To see more of the world rather than the 29 inch goggle box at home.
And of course, wouldn't it just make sense to just continue to indulge in whatever things I like to do, eat and play.
Wednesday, December 20, 2006
Dance Away......
I have always been interested in dancing since my younger days. I remembered the good old days when I was still schooling, the four of us (my I-wana-dance girlfriends) used to cheong Mambo nights at Zouk without fail. It would be followed by Mdm Wong/Da Jie at Mohammad Sultan road on Saturdays whereby we will dance to our hearts delight. We didn't seem quite get tired of all this partying, even till now. Although I have mellowed down for the past few years, however, with the spruce of some happening pubs for the past few years (eg. Thumper, MOS etc), it has gotten my feet itchy again.
Of lately, i have been catching the American show 'So you think you can dance' - http://www.fox.com/dance/showinfo/ (this is the search for America's next best undiscovered dancing talent) and I must said, the dancers were absolutely terrific! (and yes, my favourite contestant Benji is the winner!!!). It really makes me wonder what it takes to be a good professional dancer? Besides not having 2 left feet, I would think a good professional dancer got to be versatile in all genres of dance and that half the battle in becoming a professional dancer is also determination and motivation (I have the latter, but not the former though).
Well, I guess once a while, I just like to indulge in my own little dream - strutting my dance movements in front of the mirror. :)
Wednesday, December 13, 2006
Employees Alert! - A new incentive plan.
Indeed a brillant incentive plan for all employees (at least on the humor side).
Well, a good plan would be to work for yourself (be your own boss lah). In that sense, whether you work or don't work, you won't risk getting fired by someone else. You just fired yourself.
Heard the news?
Bill Gates running for President? Check out this discussion forum - http://www.billgatesforpresident.net/
The part I liked most is the 4 reasons stated by the author why Bill Gates would make a good President - http://www.billgatesforpresident.net/why-bill/
It would be really interesting if Bill Gates were to be the next US President. Just how true is this? If you want to find out more, you can join in the discussion forum to share your thoughts on this.
The part I liked most is the 4 reasons stated by the author why Bill Gates would make a good President - http://www.billgatesforpresident.net/why-bill/
It would be really interesting if Bill Gates were to be the next US President. Just how true is this? If you want to find out more, you can join in the discussion forum to share your thoughts on this.
Monday, December 04, 2006
Ironman Inspiration!
I have been inspired to do an Ironman race ever since I took part in the 10Km Sheares Bridge marathon last year. Interestingly...even though I have been very active in sports since my primary school years. I swam competitively while I was in primary school, played
badminton and volleyball competitively to a pretty high level and also represented my school, college and faculty...Yet I have never thought that running 10km or more was an achievable target...and yet, after having been there and done that last year and reading Sunday's article on 'Ironman Kua Harn Wei', it really inspired me that nothing is impossible and the human body's endurance ability is truly amazing.
What is remarkable is that Kua has put Singapore on the pedestal to become the first Asian to have completed the Deca-Iron Triathlon World Challenge! What is most inspiring thing for such athletes who manage to complete such a feat is not so much the fact that they managed to complete the whole race, rather it is the process that the atheletes went through - the amount of discipline and effort that goes into training for this 'pushing the human body to and beyond event!, sacrificing their recreational/sleeping/meal hours just to train for this gruesome feat (which I believe NOT many of us can do it in our life time).
For that, I salute Kua Harn Wei. He is a great inspiration to all. When the going gets tough, the tough gets going.
Catch Kua here on his final lap to the finishing line - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ILr3ieC6jGM&eurl=
Here is Kua's personal profile - http://www.bdg.nus.edu.sg/staff_bdgkuahw.htm
The Straits TimesNov 18, 2006
TRIATHLON Kua completes 10 Ironman races in 10 straight days
By Jeanette Wang
IMAGINE swimming lengthwise across Singapore, then cycling up to Chiang Mai and finally running back south to Bangkok.Impossible?AMAZING FEAT: Kua Harn Wei took a total of 156hr 48min 43sec to complete the Deca-Iron Triathlon World Challenge in Mexico.Singaporean Kua Harn Wei will tell you otherwise.The National University of Singapore lecturer, 35, covered that distance at the Deca-Iron Triathlon World Challenge in Monterrey, Mexico, last week.The event was organised by Multisport Andonie, a Mexican company specialising in ultra-distance events.Starting last Monday, Kua completed one Ironman triathlon - a 3.8km swim, 180km bike ride and 42.195km run - every day. He did it for 10 straight days.Competitors had to swim 76 laps in an indoor heated pool, cycle 93 laps of a paved circuit, and run 22 laps of that same circuit within 24 hours.Once completed, the remainder of the day was free. But each day at 9am, a new round would be flagged off.Of the 17 athletes who started, only nine - eight men and a woman - managed to finish all 10 races.Kua is the first Asian to complete the challenge.The 2006 Singapore Youth Award winner averaged 15hr 40min 12sec for each Ironman. He won the final leg in 13:16.33.His total time for the 10 races was 156hr 48min 43sec.The overall results were not available at press time.Kua, who took part in his first Olympic distance triathlon (1.5km swim, 40km ride, 10km run) in 1992, has also competed in the Ironman and Double Ironman distances.Last year, he was ninth at the Quintuple Ironman World Championships in Mexico.His latest feat has left Triathlon Association of Singapore president David Hoong in awe.'It's beyond the human body. I can't believe he did it,' he said.Parliamentary Secretary for Community Development, Youth and Sports Teo Ser Luck, a three-time Ironman, added: 'Singaporeans should take this as an example of someone who always sets the bar higher for himself.'Kua could not be contacted.
badminton and volleyball competitively to a pretty high level and also represented my school, college and faculty...Yet I have never thought that running 10km or more was an achievable target...and yet, after having been there and done that last year and reading Sunday's article on 'Ironman Kua Harn Wei', it really inspired me that nothing is impossible and the human body's endurance ability is truly amazing.
What is remarkable is that Kua has put Singapore on the pedestal to become the first Asian to have completed the Deca-Iron Triathlon World Challenge! What is most inspiring thing for such athletes who manage to complete such a feat is not so much the fact that they managed to complete the whole race, rather it is the process that the atheletes went through - the amount of discipline and effort that goes into training for this 'pushing the human body to and beyond event!, sacrificing their recreational/sleeping/meal hours just to train for this gruesome feat (which I believe NOT many of us can do it in our life time).
For that, I salute Kua Harn Wei. He is a great inspiration to all. When the going gets tough, the tough gets going.
Catch Kua here on his final lap to the finishing line - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ILr3ieC6jGM&eurl=
Here is Kua's personal profile - http://www.bdg.nus.edu.sg/staff_bdgkuahw.htm
The Straits TimesNov 18, 2006
TRIATHLON Kua completes 10 Ironman races in 10 straight days
By Jeanette Wang
IMAGINE swimming lengthwise across Singapore, then cycling up to Chiang Mai and finally running back south to Bangkok.Impossible?AMAZING FEAT: Kua Harn Wei took a total of 156hr 48min 43sec to complete the Deca-Iron Triathlon World Challenge in Mexico.Singaporean Kua Harn Wei will tell you otherwise.The National University of Singapore lecturer, 35, covered that distance at the Deca-Iron Triathlon World Challenge in Monterrey, Mexico, last week.The event was organised by Multisport Andonie, a Mexican company specialising in ultra-distance events.Starting last Monday, Kua completed one Ironman triathlon - a 3.8km swim, 180km bike ride and 42.195km run - every day. He did it for 10 straight days.Competitors had to swim 76 laps in an indoor heated pool, cycle 93 laps of a paved circuit, and run 22 laps of that same circuit within 24 hours.Once completed, the remainder of the day was free. But each day at 9am, a new round would be flagged off.Of the 17 athletes who started, only nine - eight men and a woman - managed to finish all 10 races.Kua is the first Asian to complete the challenge.The 2006 Singapore Youth Award winner averaged 15hr 40min 12sec for each Ironman. He won the final leg in 13:16.33.His total time for the 10 races was 156hr 48min 43sec.The overall results were not available at press time.Kua, who took part in his first Olympic distance triathlon (1.5km swim, 40km ride, 10km run) in 1992, has also competed in the Ironman and Double Ironman distances.Last year, he was ninth at the Quintuple Ironman World Championships in Mexico.His latest feat has left Triathlon Association of Singapore president David Hoong in awe.'It's beyond the human body. I can't believe he did it,' he said.Parliamentary Secretary for Community Development, Youth and Sports Teo Ser Luck, a three-time Ironman, added: 'Singaporeans should take this as an example of someone who always sets the bar higher for himself.'Kua could not be contacted.
Wednesday, November 29, 2006
Finally understood the 'Hallow' in "Halloween"
Since young, I have always thought that Halloween was some pagan American creation meant to amuse the kids. Until recently, I learnt that it is not from a friend.
As explained by my friend while he was attending mass in church, Halloween has the word "hallow" which is old form for "Holy". It is celebrated on 31 Oct for a good reason -- it is the eve of "All Saints' Day" which Catholics celebrate as a Day of Obligation (compulsory to attend mass, in plain speak). And that's how the Halloween's origins came about.
Apparently, the old celebration of All Saints' Day was known as "Holy Martyrs' Day". It attracted believers in the early church to go on a pilgrimage to the tombs and catacombs of the early church martyrs. Arriving early, (31 Oct) they decided to amuse themselves, and hid in the tombs and scare their fellow pilgrims with their disguise and "whoooo!" calls. Since it is the eve of All Saints' Day, the called it "Halloween", meaning "Holy Eve".
Of course now the day is commercialised, much like Christmas without the "Christ". (Incidentally "Christmas means Christ's mass).
It sure took me 29 years to realise the true meaning to Hallow (hope it did not take you that long to realise this)
As explained by my friend while he was attending mass in church, Halloween has the word "hallow" which is old form for "Holy". It is celebrated on 31 Oct for a good reason -- it is the eve of "All Saints' Day" which Catholics celebrate as a Day of Obligation (compulsory to attend mass, in plain speak). And that's how the Halloween's origins came about.
Apparently, the old celebration of All Saints' Day was known as "Holy Martyrs' Day". It attracted believers in the early church to go on a pilgrimage to the tombs and catacombs of the early church martyrs. Arriving early, (31 Oct) they decided to amuse themselves, and hid in the tombs and scare their fellow pilgrims with their disguise and "whoooo!" calls. Since it is the eve of All Saints' Day, the called it "Halloween", meaning "Holy Eve".
Of course now the day is commercialised, much like Christmas without the "Christ". (Incidentally "Christmas means Christ's mass).
It sure took me 29 years to realise the true meaning to Hallow (hope it did not take you that long to realise this)
Take a number - At your own risk!!
Once awhile, everybody loves to complain, make some noise..you know. We complain about our work, lovers, friends, blar blar blar.....
Have you ever wonder what it will feel like to receive mountains and mountains of complaints everyday?
Here's a good solution which a complaint department has came up with. Effective? Well, it's up to you folks to decide.
Complaint Department - Take a number at your own risk!!
Who says meetings cannot be interesting?
Who says that meetings can be boring and unproductive? Not if you interpret it in a different way.
Monday, November 27, 2006
Thursday, November 09, 2006
Shanghai Qi Pu Lu - Amazing!
Yours truly was in Shanghai last week. That explains why my blog was literally so quiet while I was gone (not an excuse though). While here I am back to blog about Shanghai's fascinating wholesale market. Qi Pu Lu - a huge wholesale market where lots of SH shops get their stock from and yes, their prices are unbelievable cheap. Clothes can go as low as $8 (RMB40) and bags around $5-10 (RMB50) depending on how you pit your bargaining skills with the vendors.
It's a 10-15 minutes' walk from He Nan Zhong Lu subway station. You know you are there when you see banners of small red flags hanging by the sides of the buildings which are pretty obvious. Thousands of stalls for you to comb through but do start early as they close around 5pm. The stuff are cheap (wholesale market for clothes, shoes and bags) but the environment is not very pleasant. I always feel breathless when I am shopping in the two main buildings there. Pretty packed and the ventilation system needs some serious improvement! However, when I was there during the late Oct period, apparently, the vendors were rapidly trying to reduce stock due to the forthcoming autumn season closure... this could mean deals, deals, deals if one is really willing to bargain!!! (yes, never overlook the art of bargaining as it is a skill!).
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