That's So Ron!!!

YAY Arunan finally goes JAPANESE 日本!!!

2008-03-24T22:56:00.000+08:00

YAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAY

Arunan finally eats Japanese food!!!

GO JAPAN 日本 !!! :)

Hahaha I'm so happy that at least Arunan is willing to try Japanese food (although quite reluctant in a way). And to all those who thinks that Japanese food is just about raw slices of salmon being slabbed onto rice... oh boy you are SO wrong.

Sushi is one of the many dishes that Japanese cuisine has to offer. There are many wonderful dishes like udon, ramen, soba, teriyaki chicken, katsu don, teppanyaki and many others!!! Oh... I am only covering the tip of the iceberg!

Anyway Arunan and I went to Sushi Tei at Taka for dinner. Supposed to be at Central, as they have more varieties and it is supposed to be haven for Japanese addicts, but he wanted to take Neoprint around this area, so yeah....

Anyway we ordered a few dishes and... I think he likes some of the stuff, especially the gyoza (dumplings). Although he did not try raw stuff... I'm just happy that he's stepping out a little. I mean, the one thing that scares some people is that most of the dishes consist of sushi, which is raw... but it's not JUST that.

Anyway enough said. I can't just blabber on without any proof, can I??? enjoy the pics.

OH MY!!! ARUNAN AND RAW FISH!!?!? It can't be...

Having a taste of my udon

Tempura

Arunan at Sushi Tei, Takashimaya.

Hey! How come I didn't take a pic of myself!!!

Feedback... Feedback [Ooohhh]

2008-03-23T10:34:00.000+08:00

ARGH!!! ~~Stupid Kenny!~~ Hahhaha this Janet Jackson song is getting in my head!!!

I went out with my friend, Kenny, just to hang out. This is day 2 of the long weekend that I am having. It's fine... just that I don't know why I'm getting so jaded. I used to be able to go out so much more often. Maybe work had taken a toll on me (or I let work affect me too much, I don't know).

Anyway that is not gonna affect my mood! On Good Friday, James, Susan and I went to VivoCity (my fav. shopping centre) and hang out. It was great, just the 3 of us talking about life, silly nonsense and getting scared over "Rule No 1" (which Susan and I agreed in the end that it wasn't so scary, after all)! Hahaha I always get scared watching all these show, cos I have the tendency of screaming (maybe even louder than the girls!) So pai seh leh. You know, I haven't even left for my HK trip and we are talking about Star Cruise. Hahaha :P what the hell....

Yesterday, I met Kenny for the 1st time and just hang out around City Hall with him. I think he thinks that I'm lame, crazy and have a big appetite! Hahaha and we walked around City Hall area.

Now... for the reason why! We were at HMV Citylink and he was telling me about Janet Jackson's new album. And I was like, "Nice meh... her last 2 albums not that good"

"It's good... just listen"

"Oh... okay loh"

So I did... and I was addicted to "Feedback". Very addictive song. It's the kinda music that you can hear in all disco/dance clubs all around the world. I mean, you know... Janet's known for that kinda music. It's groovy man!

And Kenny let me listen to the remix version of it. Wah even better! And I was singing it over and over again. The scary thing? I was linking EVERY sentence to the word 'Feedback'. Here are a few scenarios:

Kenny: "You know those clothes are so ugly"
Ron: "Then you didn't FEEDBACK, FEEDBACK..."

Kenny: "Why don't they have shorter shorts..."
Ron: "Then you didn't FEEDBACK, FEEDBACK..."

Kenny: "This is an invitation-only event and there are ah peks and aunties going in..."
Ron: "Yeah... so weird...

[pause]

"then we should FEEDBACK, FEEDBACK..."

Kenny: "AAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHH"

Ultimatum. Anyway, there was some fashion event at Marina Square. The main event (where ppl can to sit up close) is invitation-only. I really wonder how they select the people....

I begin to wonder...

Let me end off with something funny

It's a room next to the toilet. After so many years, I still don't know what this ~~freaking~~ room is all about!!!

Craziest thing I've done to date.

2008-03-16T21:34:00.000+08:00

I don't know why but I went to this website and the rest is history:

Channel U's Most Kissable Guy

Haha I don't care if I win or lose. But all I can say is... if I ever get to the Top whatever, I will just die laughing! Hello?!?!? Channel U? My Chinese like... cannot make it?

If you are bored and have nothing to do, vote for me :)

Searching for Mas Selamat bin Kastari

2008-03-08T22:24:00.001+08:00

It's been slightly more than a week... and Mas Selamat, one of the JI leaders, is yet to be found.

Frantic search started when Mas Selamat escaped from Whitley Detention Centre during his 'toilet break' on 27th February. It was rather shocking news, considering that Singapore is known to be a safe place.

Posters of his rather stern face has been plastered all over Singapore, including MRT stations, bus stops, coffee shops and a Nokia shop at Wheelock (which makes me wonder if this guy is actually going to go to the shop to get the latest Nokia phone, so that he can contact those ~~bloody~~ JI people).

I'm rather concerned about the security level in Singapore and now the whole world's gonna think that this is a big joke on Singapore. And I would have never imagined such a thing to have happened on our sunny island.

*AND IT'S BEEN A

WEEK +++ !!!!*

But, seriously, I believe that we can get over this. I believe that the police force, commandos, secret forces (and whichever forces that's in charge of this) will be able to track him down (although I've a funny feeling that he might have landed in Indonesia already).

Let's all pray and hope that he will be caught and be given a heavier sentence. I'm sure God is fair.

Mas Selamat, you will NOT

be spared.

I AM GOING TO HONG KONG!!!!!!!!!!!

2008-03-08T01:49:00.000+08:00

Oh my God I am confirmed on Hong Kong!!! Wow I'm like so excited. I've been thinking of my holiday for like *THE* longest time and it's like so cool, seriously. Hahaha I'm running out of words to describe this adrenalin excitement!!! So happy.

But you know what's the funny thing? I didn't book it through my agency but through the NATAS FAIR!!!

Yes it is the bi-yearly travel fair that every other Singaporean goes to pick up the best travel deal or to find out more travel related information. It's like the annual sale for travel!

What I like about NATAS Fair is that you can choose from a range of tours from different agencies. The prices are competitive and crazy at times!!! Besides that, you may also go and search for info on places that you intend to visit, check out new offers, new places to go and even subscribe to 8 Days!!! (seriously! I did see Milo once, trying to promote some drinks).

This year's NATAS is different, cos:

It's held at Expo. It's usually held at Suntec (which I would have preferred cos it's more convenient for me) ~~freaking organiser~~
It's held from 29th February - 2nd March, which is very early compared to previous years (usually held end March)

Anyway, I went down to NATAS twice (once on Friday and once on Saturday). Oh my God, the crowd's the same. Okay, Friday afternoon is okay, cos not many people are around and free. But Saturday was crazy!!! It was like half of Singapore's population is searching for a holiday!!! Ai yo, and they can still complain about inflation and GST Hike! Haha

During the 2 days, I was walking around looking for HK deals. But it seems that a lot of agencies that could not provide my preferred travel dates: end-July. Most of them could only give me rates until June. Was worried, but thankfully I found 2 agencies: Resorts Travel and Nam Ho Travel.

Although I went to Resorts 1st, I booked with Nam Ho because the lady seems to know more and was more attentive towards me. And nicer :) . Booking it was a little 'heartbreaking' because I have to foot a deposit of S$1000 (yes THAT much) for the trip. Rather scary, come to think of it.

But I'm very glad that I've made the booking. I'm really, really excited. It'll be my 1st time to Hong Kong. And we are planning to travel to Macau, maybe go to Disneyland or Ocean Park... wow it's just so... hard to describe. Hahaha

You know what's funny? I was desperately looking for a HK deal.. and I can slowly talk to the Air Mauritius lady about how similar Mauritius is to Singapore and chat with the TopDeck stuff about Spain.

This fair just makes me wanna travel... but I wanna go to places that not many people wanna go, including Okinawa, Jeju and Spain. Ai yah... maybe next time.

Seriously the queue was THAT long

"Oh my God I SO need a holiday..."

Never ending...

SINGAPORE YOUTH OLYMPICS 2010!!! YAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2008-02-21T23:14:00.001+08:00

A big congrats to Singapore for winning the bid to host the Youth Olympics in 2010. I was happy (although a bit sick still) to hear the news. I mean, I kinda got a feeling that we will get it, but I didn't expect it to be real!!! WOW!!!

Singapore's gonna be in for more tourists and visitors coming in. And this time, sportsmen. Although we are not hosting the Olympics, the Youth Olympics is good enough. I mean... hello? If we were to host the Olympics... I think we would have to build another island altogether. I mean, even if we have the space on main island for the stadiums and sporting places... how about accommodation for the athletes?

Youth Olympics is more appropriate (and of a better scale) and I am so proud of Singapore. I mean, it's SO cool loh. Wish I was there at the Padang to share the joy. But I was at work lah. I'm sure I can do something to help out...

Can I help welcome delegates?

Back from the Land of Smiles :)

2008-02-13T22:19:00.009+08:00

Hey ya everyone! I'm back from THAILAND, the land of smiles. In Thai, their country name means 'land of the free' and I literally felt quite free. Well, sort of.

Anyway, I had a fun time in Thailand :) Here's a brief of what I did:

Day 1 - 4

I woke up freaking early in the morning to prepare for early morning flight via SQ. Hahaha the last min decision to go Thailand had left us with no choice but to take Singapore Airlines. Felt a bit cranky cos I was tired from late night (naughty me)

We went to the airport and it was quite cool cos the WHOLE family (except my uncle) were there. I've not travelled with the whole family for a long time. I don't even know when was the last time we did that.

After check in, we started to board the plane and flew our way to Bangkok. Upon arrival, we went straight through immigration and went straight to our hotel. The fun thing about the immigration is that... it's the 1st time I actually went through immigration (from Singapore) at the new Suvarnabhumi airport (although I'm not loving the new airport).

The hotel was a shock. The outlook was boring, Internet service was sucky, staff were too casual. Ah!!! Sometimes I wonder why Auntie Phua book such a hotel. But don't really blame her. She was looking for the best deal. But, we eventually spent more on taxi (duh, my grandma can't walk much). Don't book Bangkok City Suites

Immediately went to Central World Plaza for a start of our shopping. Next few days were shopping and meeting extended family in Thailand for dinners. It was nice to see the whole family getting together, although somewhat... I felt a little out of place. I mean, I want to be as close to my Thai family members as possible, but I just don't know what to do.

We went to Kanchanaburi on one of the days. It was near disastrous because we had like a van which has an aircon that didn't work well. Imagine. 11 people in a small van with lack of aircon. And we did that for an entire day. Imagine.

We went to River Kwai, Death Railway and Tiger Temple. The biggest disappointment was Tiger Temple, because the tigers didn't look as free as we thought they were. Although we got to take really nice pics of them, they look lethargic. My aunties suspect a bad case of... commercialism. They suspect that they were tranqualised so that people can take pics with them. That's kinda cruel, I feel.

I mean the reason why we came to Tiger Temple was to see tigers roam around the temple freely, just like when the monks 1st found the tiger at his temple. Just like.. when he wanted to adopt it and have more tigers. I don't know. It's just too fishy to me.

River Kwai and Death Railway was more interesting because I've never expected myself to be there and I did want to go there. Was really cool.

Shop, shop, shop... I bought so many things man!!! On the 4th day, we went to the salon, which acts as a hairdressing salon, manicure, pedicure, facial and massage parlour all rolled up into one. I wanted a cut and colour, so they started on the colour 1st. Upon hearing my younger bro complain, I didn't want a cut already. Was scared, but my father was being very stubborn and told me not to give attitude. What attitude?!?! I was just trying to be on the safe side.

Didn't go well in the end because my father misunderstood me and there was a big commotion (that I made) and the whole freaking salon was so scared of me, it was like a volcano was going to erupt!!! Well... it did, considering that my hair looked like lava! They redye the hair (so that the roots were coloured) as they didn't do so and I wasn't that happy. Gave a big tip to cover up for my terrible drama. But, seriously, if not for my father... ahh forget it.

My parents, elder bro, cousin Jacky and my auntie Applelyn went off 1st, as they were spending less days in Thailand, while my grandma, aunties Phua and Mary, younger bro Sean, cousin Julian and I took the overnight train to Udon Thani. Gonna meet my maid :) although my mood was kinda sucky because of the hair incident. I mean, I looked in the mirror and I saw Ronald McDonald, so what did you expect?

Day 5-8

Woke up early, as the train arrived in Udon at around 7am. I had dinner and breakfast on the train. I was tricked. My dinner cost THB70, but my breakfast was THB 210. Xiao. I wasted my money man.

I stepped out of the train and looked around.

"Ron!" screamed my maid.

"Auntie Rian!", I shouted with exclaim.

And both of us run towards each other, like long lost lovers who haven't met for eons. (Oh my God the drama)

We went to the hotel to check in before leaving for our maid's village. We received a warm welcome from the villagers and we went straight into her house for another round of breakfast. Ai yo, we kept eating and eating! Nice, warm porridge :)

We left for Nong Khai, which is a town near the border, so we were able to see Laos (which was so cool). We had dinner at some hawker centre in Udon. Udon is a very small town, so we were able to get around much easier than Bangkok. Oh, and things are a little bit cheaper. Haha!

Next day was back at the village and we got to see my maid's farm. After retiring from us last July, she went back to the village and got herself land and do farm stuff. Corn, tomatos, fruits...she planted a few things around. It was cool.

More and more food for us. We just kept eating non stop (oh God I'm so fat). Too nice lah, they. After that, we went back to the train station for our overnight train to Bangkok. It was sad to go, I wish I could stay longer, but yea... what to do?

Anyway we went back to Bangkok and it was time for me to add on to my luggage already full of my purchases. I don't know why I like to shop in Bangkok (esp Mah Boon Khrong). Maybe cos it's cheap lah. Haha

We went back to Singapore the afternoon of the last day. It was irritating to think about work, but I have work to do, so we had to go back.

Overall

Throughout the trip, we had ups and downs. It's like, at every moment, someone is complaining or having their bad moment and you can see like everyone's bad side and stuff... and then my grandmother would suddenly worry about the things in the luggage when we are like out of the hotel. So random.

Other than that, the trip was good. It might be hard to organise a big group like that, but yeah... I'm happy that we did it :)

The Inner Beng

2008-01-28T22:51:00.000+08:00

Why doesn't anyone LIKE techno/house music!??!!

Just recently, I was at Challenger with Jim and he thinks that these songs are beng and are so... similar. True, I have to agree... but these songs are SO cool!! Hahhaa

But I don't understand the stigma. You mean, only the ah bengs and ah lians can appreciate techno music? Or Euro Dance/Trance? Or House? It's cool, funky and sets the dancing mood at times!

I remember once, I went to MOS with my friends. I was stuck at Smoove for a while. I can't totally appreciate that room's music. I mean, it's so hip hop. How in the world do you dance to a foul-mouth rapping song about that hot chica and that rich guy with the bling bling!??! I mean some songs have the beat. Some are like pure gansta rapping. Ewww...

Then I walk by the main arena and my heart wants to run into the crowd, then suddenly an invisible hand pulls me out of it. And I end up going back to Smoove. Oh but we did go to 54, which is my FAVOURITE room. It has disco music :) BOOGIE WONDERLAAAAAAAAAAAAAND....

I still like techno. I mean, not all of the songs, but most of them are quite nice...

Okay, so I might be a beng, after all.

"Happy Children's Day, Ron"

2008-01-27T23:48:00.000+08:00

After a long day, I came back home with my purchases, rushing to pack my cabinet a little and then I chanced upon a notebook with a small note stuck on it. And it says,

"HAPPY CHILDREN'S DAY, RON"

It's the autograph notebook that my primary school form teacher (Primary 6, to be exact) gave us. I wouldn't really bother about it, most of the time, but today, I thought it would be nice to have a look at it.

I open and read each written page. I laughed at all the funny comments, the illegible handwriting and all the salah grammar. But I also read all my teachers' encouraging and sweet comments. Then the ultimate came: I read 2 of my good friends comments. Very touching and real. And innocent. I felt innocence in it. Then I begin to wonder... why did I distance myself away from that good friend (one of them) of mine? Why did I quarrel with him? I mean... I seriously don't remember what the fight was about!!!

Oh God.. .I feel so bad. Seriously. He's not totally a bad person. I mean, everyone has their good and bad points. Could have been some misunderstanding. Although I cannot turn back time and I may not be as close as those times, I wish to start afresh with my friend. Hopefully, I would be able to get to know the guy that I knew in primary school. Hopefully, all the bad memories will fade away.

On top of that, I reflected on my teachers' comments (and my friend's comments). You know what? It seems like I've never changed. Sad, but true. Haha I'm still that naive, 'blur' and hardworking guy, who's anxious to please people and can be terribly hard on himself. Gotta change man!

All is not at loss... I mean there are always new beginnings and we can ALL start afresh. So I actually started searching for my primary school friends. I saw one of them and I nearly fainted because suddenly, he looks like he transformed from a cute plump boy to some Manhunt contestant! Haha the world has changed so much!

Hopefully a few of you know some of my classmates. Or you are MY classmate in primary school and you are reading my blog. Please add me on MSN, Facebook, Friendster... whatever!!!!

Heath Ledger [1979-2008]

2008-01-24T00:35:00.000+08:00

Suddenly the world stops. A great movie star found dead in his Manhattan apartment on Tuesday night (Wed morning in Singapore). Unbelievable, but true.

Honestly, I would have never expected him to die. I mean, he seems like a nice guy, you know, he's really not that kinda typical Hollywood stars that likes to get into the paparazzi and get into all sorts of nonsense to get headlines.

And the kind of movies he does is amazing. I think "Brokeback Mountain", whoa. For a straight guy, married, to actually lose himself in this role. Kudos to him. He may not be one of my favourite actors, but I think 28 is too young an age to die lah.

Autopsy is yet to come. From there, we will know if he committed suicide or he had an accidental drug overdose (which is kinda scary). I rather it be the latter, but the former does seem possible. I mean, accidental drug overdose? Is it possible? I mean, especially when he's found dead naked? Erh... honestly I'm not sure.

And if he really did commit suicide... I mean... don't they feel pain? I mean, the thought of wanting to hurt yourself is really so unbelievable. Is life really not worth living? I feel sad; he had a promising future.

Suicide suddenly reminds me of my school mate who actually committed suicide. Unbelievable, but true. Wah... I was really in shock.

Whatever the outcome is... may he rest in peace.

If only I had the cash now...

2008-01-20T13:04:00.001+08:00

... I would travel everywhere! Hahaha travelling is like really fun!! I mean getting lost in a foreign city, trying new stuff and seeing new sights... getting immersed into the culture. It's like so cool. Here's my wishlist of places tha I wanna travel to:

ASIA

1. Japan
- Okinawa
- Tokyo
- Tokyo Disneyland
- Hokkaido
- Fukuoka
- Mt Fuji

2. South Korea
- Jeju Island
- Seoul
- DMZ Zone

3. Taiwan
- Shihlih Night Market, Taipei
- Hualien
- Kaoshiung

4. Hong Kong & Macau
- Disneyland
- HK Ocean Park
- HK version of the Walk of Fame (I don't know what it's called)

5. Malaysia
- Sabah
- Langkawi
- Tioman
- Sunway Lagoon

6. Indonesia
- Lombok
- Medan
- Bintan
- Batam

7. Indochina (Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam, Myanmar)

8. Thailand
- Any of the beaches (Phuket, Koh Samui, Koh Phi Phi)
- Ayutthaya
- Kanchanaburi

9. China
- Beijing
- Great Wall of China
- Xian (TerraCotta Warriors!)
- Shanghai
- Sanya
- Yunnan
- Fujian (for obvious reasons)
- Tibet
- Harbin
-

10. Others
- Mumbai, India
- Goa, India
- Amristar, India
- Rajasthan, India
- Sri Lanka
- Bhutan
- Mongolia
- Maldives

EUROPE
- Spain
- Greece
- UK
- Norway
- Netherlands (Amsterdam!)
- Swizterland
- Italy

AMERICAS

1. USA
- Texas
- Seattle
- Chicago
- Alaska
- Grand Canyon
- New Orleans
- Statue of Liberty
- Oklahoma

2. Canada
- Niagara Falls
- Toronto
- Quebec

3. Central and South
- the WHOLE of South America
- Cuba
- Mexico
- Puerto Rico

MIDDLE EAST
- Turkey
- Egypt
- Israel
- Jordan
- Dubai, UAE

AFRICA
- Morocco
- South Africa
- Magadascar
- Kenya
- Zimbabwe
- Victoria Falls

OCEANIA

1. Australia
- Sydney Opera House
- Melbourne
- Perth
- Phillip Island
- Christmas Island

2. New Zealand
- Auckland
- Christchurch
- Queenstown

3. Others
- Guam
- Fiji

Ai yah... if only....

American Idol Season... OMG it's their 7TH SEASON!??!

2008-01-17T00:20:00.000+08:00

Can you believe that despite having 6 freaking winners, millions of terribly awful (but entertaining) auditions and lotsa fatigue viewers, USA just can't get enough of Idol fever? Even 'Pop Idol', the original Idol show from UK (yes it's from UK and yes American Idol is not the original one, for those whom are oblivious) stopped at the 2nd season.

Maybe it's the fact that America's a big country. Maybe it's the fact that people think they have that chance, despite not even having a voice close to Britney and that Simon is super bitchy and critical (do these people actually WATCH TV?). Maybe they just want to be on TV. Maybe they just want to give Simon a piece of his own medicine. Whatever it is, American Idol is very entertaining in its own ways.

Yes, I know, a lot of people are getting bored. The concept is overused in many areas. Let's take Singapore for example. After American Idol was shown here, Singapore Idol came about and people started getting excited. Then came the copycats. Project Superstar, Anugerah, Vasatham Star, Campus Superstar, The Dance Floor and many other shows with the same formula: people's votes.

Kinda gets boring after a while, cos the judges will try to be critical for the sake of it and the people will not listen and vote for some salah people (until they realise that the people can't actually sing). And because of our small population, salah people can actually just get a few good friends and a very big supportive family to inject votes to give them the rights to stay.

What a pity. There's only 2 Singapore Idol seasons.

Anyway, back to American Idol, if you think season 7 is gonna be the last one, you are wrong. Contracts has been signed to give them the rights for 2 more seasons after this season (crazy). I think America really cannot get enough.

Since America claims to have so much talent, let's see what the Idols have been up to:

KELLY CLARKSON

Grammy award winning singer with award winner songs and albums, she is so far the best and the most successful Idol winner. It is a real pity that MediaCorp did not show this season, of all the seasons. But I am glad that she prove that she can make it outside the competition.

I don't think her 3rd album is doing as well as the previous 2, but I am hopeful for her. I think she can make it still.

RUBEN STUDDARD

This bear is cute and funky, but he is so-so. Album sales hasn't been too good. He has already... 3 or 4 albums to date (I am serious) and it's been... just like that. Lacklustre response and sales. Clay Aiken did a much, much better job when their 1st albums came out.

Now it seems dead...

FANTASIA BARRINO

Fantasia was honest, straightforward and unique. I think that is what made her win the competition. The season finalists actually came to Singapore for a concert. And it was kinda cool. Loved to see LaToya London and Jennifer Hudson belting their hearts out. And Fantasia screaming like a crazy woman! Hahaha

Her album was so-so for me. Apparently her album is big in US. Hmm... I don't know man. I'm like okay with her...

CARRIE UNDERWOOD

Another best seller. Her purity and innocence is her selling point. With her amazing voice and down-to-earth roots, it's no wonder her albums is hitting a lot of charts worldwide. I actually preferred Bo to win, so you can only imagine how I felt when I was right there at Kodak Theatre. But her album, her image and everything... kinda blew me away and I fell in love with this country babe.

Bo Bice was good and all... but don't know what happened to him.

TAYLOR HICKS

I think America must have made a mistake with him. I mean, hello?!! Chris Daughtry was supposed to take THAT position. What the hell were they thinking?!??! Argh! Sometimes, I don't know what the people are doing. But, well anyway he won. Got his own album, blah blah and now he's out of his record label.

1st Runner Up Katharine McPhee was great and fabulous and she has everything... but think her album sales weren't so good too. And she is also out of her label. But I personally like her a lot and I wouldn't mind buying her album. Maybe don't need to be so R&B/Hip Hop lah, babe. A bit of classic is fine :)

And DAUGHTRY ROCKS!!!

JORDIN SPARKS

Jordin is a nice and sweet gal. But I thought she didn't seem to be like.. winner material. Maybe cos she's young. Maybe cos her being in Top 2 was unexpected. I don't know... but doesn't seem like the Top 2 of this season is shining as brightly as the others. Her song sounds... a little too hip hop for her, I think. I mean I love her voice and everything.. but it seems like something's missing...

Hope season 7 will not be so typical. But it has been in many ways already. Glorifying the salah ones and sympathising the good ones... And it's kinda... boring and typical. Hahaha I'm so loss for words. And even if they win... I mean it doesn't guarantee them success. Sad, but true. I think this formula is so overused.

Let's just see what the new season of American Idol will bring...

Pilgrimage to Temasek (TP ROCKS)

2008-01-12T23:46:00.000+08:00

I've been quite busy (though not as busy as last month) with work. But after much persuasion, I decided to come back to TP and check out what my school is like now. Thing is... my friend didn't know that I'm coming. I just told Nicholas that I can't make it. Haha

Took bus 23 all the way to TP this afternoon. It felt so good, cos it just remind of the old days... going to school while looking into the big blue sky, listening to my discman and getting lost in my world... thinking about the beautiful things in life and all the beautiful people around. It's such a wonderful feeling.

Upon arriving, I walk across the bridge linking to TP. There were overly-enthusiatic kids (lined up on each side of the bridge) shouting and greeting each visitor [with much enthusiasm and warmth] that walks into and out of the school. They reminded me of the reason why I chose to go to TP out of the (then) 4 polytechnics :)

I gave a call to Nicholas and shocked him by telling him that I am in school. Hahaa, but at least it was a pleasant surprise. We went straight to the business school and walk through crowds... ended up at LT 19 for some crazy show. Imagine sitting in a room with kids trying to decide their fate through a ridiculously mad fashion show hosted by a 'drag queen'. Haha!

This 'drag queen' came out and starting bringing in representatives of each diploma course in the Business school (quite proud that HTM got a pretty one). And there had this role playing nonsense that was ridiculously mad, draggy but funny. That 'drag queen' was totally crazy.

I went straight to Biz Park for something that I have been longing for for eons. [for those who study in TP, please say this along with me...] :

CAR-LER ONE!!!!!!!!!!!

Hahahah okay okay for the totally clueless, it's actually the infamous chicken cutlet from TP Business School canteen, also known as Biz Park. Nicholas was wondering what's up with me and my craze over it.

For those who has never been to TP, you should try this. It's the only chicken cutlet that I've known that has sauce over it. Usually you only get this sauce if you buy chicken chop, or pork chop, or whatever chop lah. But in this canteen, every other dish has sauce on it. And it taste amazing. I would usually have it once a week. It just perks me up.

Upon graduating... my life got more and more busy and I never had the time to go back to school. I did go back a few times, but the stall was always closed. I was SO happy that it's open today!!! I queued up patiently to order my favourite dish. The auntie and all the workers (except the guy who says 'car-ler one') were there. Poor 'car-ler one' man. The Lord decided to take him to Heaven earlier. I'm so sad. But anyway... my cutlet came and I happily added a generous amount of mayo, just like I always do when I was in school.

I walked to the table where Nicholas was sitting, smiling excitedly like a little kid with his favourite bag of candies. Oh my God.. the moment... the anxiety. It took me a while before I cut that very small piece and place it into my mouth....

HMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM

Oh my God. I nearly cried. It still taste so good. An adrenaline rush ran into me.

I've waited 3 freaking years for this moment. No one knows how much I HEART BIZ PARK CHICKEN CUTLET. It's amazing. The frieds, the beans, the chicken cutlet and the sauce... only the bread is different. But that's fine. Still lovin' it :)

Nicholas was still puzzled. Hahaha wait till he leaves school.

We walked around school and towards the end, he had to go back to CyberCentre to load pics for his CCA, so he had to go and... I went walking around myself. There are quite a bit of changes in school and... yeah it's quite diff. I mean, Cheers in school, no more travel agency, a more high tech looking book drop. Wow. School has changed, but I'm glad that the enthusiasm is still there.

Earlier on, I managed to see a 'rock' performance by some school group and all the 'i-guides' (or rather, school guides) were dancing around. Cheers after cheers, TP students just can't seem to get enough of it. And if you think that's over... a familiar song came out.

OH MY GOD MASS DANCE!!!

I felt like dancing it, cos I roughly remember the steps... then I realised that I don't have a partner. And Nicholas found his own partner (even if he didn't, I can't exactly be dancing the mass dance with him). Hahaa

It was so fun seeing all these crazy kids doing the mad dance (oh my God, are we the only school in the world that has our OWN mass dance??)

After the tiring dance, came... the CHICKY DANCE. This one is a little crazy. I don't know how to explain it but it's total madness. Then our school song. wow.

Now I really wish I was back in school. Those were the days...

My day ended with dinner with Jeremy at Tampines and walking around Tampines Mall (affectionately known as TM to TP students). Aaah... then I took 23 back home and pass by school again!

Oh, those were the days man...

argh why am I getting sick...

2008-01-05T06:38:00.001+08:00

... and still exercising. I'm mad. Hahaha! I didn't have a good night sleep and obviously, I woke up much much earlier than I supposed to. Actually this entry is supposed to be called Travel Woes, but whatever. Anyway here are the 'travel woes' that I've been having:

1. Thailand

My family initially wanted to go to Thailand next month. Suddenly my auntie and my mother decided to visit Buddhist temples in Bangladesh. Whoa... okay I mean that's good, but I kinda took leave for the Thailand trip. And I wasn't so interested in Bangladesh.

Suddenly, upon hearing my say, they wanted to carry on with the Thailand trip. Now I've only hours to decide on my flights, because I am thinking of going to Pattaya to meet my friend for a day or so... oh man so tight!!!

2. Hong Kong

No probs, except that I am still thinking between normal carriers and budget carriers. I'm really not fussy about things, but I must say that I haven't had very good experience with budget carriers. I mean, seriously how to survive without pretty air stewardesses serving you meals on board and looking oh-so-pretty (although I beg to differ on certain airlines) and feeling all comfortable and relaxed.

I sound pampered. I have to admit that I do sound like that. If even people who can affordable more than budget carriers is asking me to save on airfare, I must be really pampered. But I didn't have a good experience.

I mean, queuing up to take your seats? Either suffering extremely Arctic-like coldness or Sahara-like heat on each flight? Paying S$3 for a cup of instant porridge? And seeing poor ah peks and ah mas queuing up for seats? I really gotta think about it.

3. Taiwan

Friend just reminded me that Taiwan is a nice place to go. Yes, the land of bubble tea, A*Mei and her aborigine heritage, hot springs, good food and crazy politics. It's the only place in the world where it's legal to act cute. Go down Orchard Road with the act-cute attitude and you just get weird stares and lotsa gosipping.

Anyway I found out that JetStar flies to Taipei. Oh my God... but for 6 hours??? Oh man... can I opt for Eva Air? At least it's safer than China Airlines. Hahaha... really wanna go to Taiwan anyway. I don't know what is so attractive about it, but it does intrigue me. A lot.

But I'm already going to Thailand and Hong Kong. And that doesn't include my fam trips etc.... don't know if I can afford Taiwan. Ai yah... there goes my Shihlin Night Snacks :(

How how HOW!!?!?!

Life in PSP Mode

2007-12-26T23:13:00.000+08:00

ARGH!!!

Have you ever felt so frustrated with irritating, bitchy, nasty or just plain idiotic people that you just wanna strangle!??! Although I'm in an industry where I have to face all sort of people and I have to handle them with TLC, I do get frustrated at times! Hello? I'm only human. I can only tolerate THIS much.

Doesn't help that these people keep coming back to bug you time after time. And it happens just when you forget about them altogether. MUY IRRITANTE MAS! TODO ES TONTA PERRAS!!!

AAAAAHHHHH

If only life was like some computer or video game. You know... just put all these stupid people into a video game and just shoot them, punch them, kick them... whatever!!! All gone, forever! HAHA (evil laugh)... Life in PSP mode.

Speaking of which... should I get a PSP?

Merry Christmas Everyone!!!

2007-12-25T16:46:00.000+08:00

¡Feliz Navidad!... ¡Feliz Navidad!...

Haha! MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE!!! Woo hoo... I'm feeling kinda crazy now. Everyone is celebrating on the streets, going out, watching movies, having parties what not... but today I just feel like taking a break. Besides... I had a great weekend :)

We all ought to celebrate, no matter what you believe it. You can choose to party the night away, go to church and sing carols, watch a movie with your friends, do some sports... I mean it's a public holiday anyway!!!

Today just felt like staying at home cos I have Christmas cards to do (OH NO). Yes, belated as it is... no choice lah. Work has been taking a toll on me (and my precious time). I mean it is fine, really. But there's just too many things to do. One min I'm with Client A on the phone, while Client B walks in and ask about their visas and Client C bugs me about some proposal... ai yo how lah!?!?!

I had time to swim (although it started raining cats and dogs when I entered the pool) and relax myself and my mind. Then I think about the things I did this year. So much things has changed:

1. Army Days

It was quite a fine year... cos I kinda knew that I was going to ORD this year. And although it was in the later part of the year, I knew I would be happy. Just that, I don't really fancy being in it. There's too much nonsense in it. I'm just lucky to have survived without any bad records.

Okay yes, maybe I made a few enemies and I get teased at times. And doesn't help that some of the higher ranking personnels are rather 'strange' and ridiculous in their own ways. Honestly, it sucks.

But, come to think about it... years ago I never imagined myself to have actually completed NS. Years ago, I dread the fact of ARMY. It's like going to jail or something. BMT, training... oh my God. "Tears on my Pillow" and "Wake me up when September ends" was my theme songs loh. But I survived. Thank God!

Oh and thanks to my officers, I finally passed IPPT. Amazing.

2. Catching up with friends.

Work, school, army... whatever! Everyone is getting busier and busier. Hard to make new friends as you grow older, so it's best to catch up with those that you have!

I tried to go out more with Desmond and Arunan while they were back from UK. It's kinda funny that we wanted to go through the same path (somewhat), but we ended up doing things differently. And yes, it is tough to catch up when you have different goals and different focus point in lives, but I am just grateful that we are still friends, despite all that has happened.

I also try to catch up with those that are in Singapore. Jeremy, Susan, James... it was a rather tough year cos of the problems that arose. Honestly, it was rather scary and sickening. I'm just glad the situation has simmer down.

Vanitha, Adrienne and gang are all working (except for Danielle, who's studying). Very hard to meet up, especially Vanitha (my fitch)! Wah... but we managed to go for dinner, go for outings, birthdays... and HALLOWEEN! Hahha I never imagined myself to be going clubbing with a freaking box over my head. Hahaa. I had cereal boxes all over my shirt with red plastic knives on it and a bit cereal box over my head... and I was just a cereal killer (get it?). Hahaha

More random meetings week by week. It's good to socialise.

3. Bali Trip

I went to Bali, Indonesia with Desmond and Susan. I was very excited before, during and after the trip! Hahaha it was really fun. *NOW* I know why people go to Bali. It's a really beautiful place. Although quite touristy, it is still relaxing and nice in a way.

Beaches, seafood, temple visiting, dance watching... it was great man!!! Wish I could go back again. Next trip coming up!!!

4. Change the way I am (reflection)

After Reuben's death (oops, I mean the 5 dragonboaters), I realised the need to be closer to your family. It's like an awakening for me. And I really reflected much on my life and what I have been doing.

Don't know if I have become more selfish and self-centred along the way, which is kinda scary cos it's so not me. I know that we can't be perfect, but we can do whatever we can to be a better person. And I want to be better.

It's only been a month. The pain still urks many. I hope that all their loved ones will be fine. Hopefully they are having a good time in Heaven.

5. Give when you can

I feel very blessed to have a nice family and great friends who treat me so well, so I think... I'm giving a bit more than I would usually do during Christmas.

Treated my friends to pizza during Desmond's Christmas party at Pacific Mansion and I queued up on Christmas Eve for doughnuts for my family. Not that long, but longer than my 5 mins record. Hahha. I feel happy to be doing this. Hahaha I'm always getting treats and presents and stuff... it's high time I did something for those I love. Hopefully they like it.

Ai yo. How come I have so many thoughts ah? Hahaha drama sia....

I hope that next year would be a good year. 2008, a new cycle (for us Chinese) and hopefully things will go well for me and my family. I should be...

Anyway to everyone, MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY NEW YEAR!

"And the 1st Asian Idol is... HADY MIRZA!!!"

2007-12-17T00:55:00.001+08:00

Oh my God! Congrats to our fellow Singaporean (and of course, Singapore Idol), Hady Mirza, for being the winner of ASIAN IDOL 2007!!!

Wow I could have never imagine such a thing to happen, honestly speaking. I mean... I watch the performance show the night before... and I really thought he didn't have much of a chance. But I'm happy for him, really. And I'm happy cos it seems like Singaporeans are doing their every part to make us proud of ourselves!!! Recent SEA Games was kinda outstanding in a lot of ways too! And many other stuff too!!

What did I really think about everyone's performance that night? Well... here you go:

Jaclyn (Malaysia): I think she has a very powerful voice and she's amazing. She's got the gift. But maybe she doesn't sound like she's enjoying herself much? It does sound a little robotic in a way.

Phuong Vy (Vietnam): Erh... she's really pretty, I must admit. I think a lot of guys like her. I mean, come on lah, she's seriously hot! But her voice? Hmm she has potential, but the songs she chose like... okay that Vietnamese song sounds like those Cantopop song that you hear in KBox. And "River Deep Mountain High" was so so.

Mau (Philippines): I don't know if she's pressurised or something (cos she comes from a country with many well known singers like Lea Salonga and Regine Velasquez), but she sounded controlled. She can show her power and her diva-ness, strength... whatever! But she was just hiding it. What a waste. She could have thrown us off our seats.

Abhijeet (India): He was trying very hard with "Everything I Do", but it still wasn't enough. I think he's not fluent with the language or something. What a pity. The Hindi song was okay lah. He could have chosen other Hindi songs that were nicer actually.

Mike (Indonesia): He sounded fine. I thought that he would be the dark horse of the competition, cos his voice is quite soothing, although it does sound a little typical in a way. But it's good and strong. And he looks like Indo's version of Ruben Studdard! Hahah

Hady (Singapore): I think the judges (or whoever) made the right choice to send Hady over. I can't imagine Taufik over there. I like Taufik a lot, but maybe... I don't know. Hady seems right for this competition. Anyway I really really felt that Hady chose the wrong song. Wah lau, "Beautiful Day"!??!! Jac sang "Gemilang", why don't you just sing "You Gave Me Wings"? It would have blown the people off. But anyway, the Malay song was good. I think he sang better than Taufik.

In my honest opinion, I thought Jaclyn would win. I think it was good that we got to vote for 2 countries, so I also voted for Hady. Didn't expect the results to be like this. But, I mean seriously, it's good. I'm happy about it. I'm not sure about the fans of the other Idols, but seriously, for us Singaporeans, this is a big thing!!!

I mean, there are many great singers (and talents) here in Singapore. Stefanie Sun, Tanya Chua, Taufik Batisah, Pimp Parking Lot (is that their names?), A Vacant Affair, Electrico and many more! Problem is, we Singaporeans don't support them as much as Rihanna (yucks), Chemical Romance and whoever that's popular now. Sad, but true.

But today speaks of a different story. Of a new phase for Singapore's entertainment industry. Hady wins an international recording contract (wow) and trip around the world to see the other Idol shows. WOW. Seriously, CONGRATS

HADY, WE ARE PROUD OF YOU :D

Ella, ella, ella, ei, ei, ei... Rihanna vs Mandy

2007-12-16T00:43:00.000+08:00

"Ella, ella, ella, ei, ei, ei"

Like it or hate it, every single radio station is playing that damn song. Okay, I really like the song. But Rihanna... erh...

Anyway moving on to what I want to say... a few of my friends have told me that the cute and lovely Mandy more did a version of this song. Whoa... Mandy? Umbrella? First thoughts was like... "Whoa... it's like asking Britney to sing 'Hero' by Mariah"! Okay I'm exaggerating... but.. hmm it would be interesting.

I finally managed to watch (and hear) both versions side by side. Here are my views:

Rihanna's Version (Original)

Honestly, I hated this song initially. I'm not a fan of Rihanna at all. The only song that I like is her very first single, which is "Pon De Replay". Even "Unfaithful" is so-so. After some time... I started to like this song.

But the video... is horrendous. It's like plain.. slutty. Sorry to all Rihanna fans, but I think the video kinda spoilt the song. I mean... what's with the 'oh look, I'm so pretty and sexy' poses and silly outfit... and that water thingie?!?! Oh my God! Ridiculous MTV.

Mandy's version (Cover)

I can't really comment much about the MTV, cos it's just Mandy standing with her band singing Rihanna's "Umbrella", alas AOL Music session. But there's something about the way Mandy sings it and, you know... make it sound beautiful. There's something pure about her voice and her image that makes this song tamer than the original version.

It was a little hard to digest a slower version of it, but I'm starting to like it and appreciate it. Like one of my friends told me, this version brings out the real meaning of the lyrics. But maybe it wasn't necessary to show Rihanna's dumb vid at the background, seriously...

VERDICT

I like both versions of the song, but if you want me to judge it based on overall appeal, I would have to give kudos to Mandy. She makes the song sound nice and she doesn't do any funny video that screams "SEX". Just plain, simple and normal.

I'm sorry Rihanna, but your video... it's like I really have to erase the whole video off my mind whenever I hear the song, or else I will hate the song!!! I mean, so what if you spend 4 hours getting that silver paint on your body and maybe hours getting the [slutty] dance moves right, it's still terrible. Babe, you are better off just shutting up and driving...

"Good Morning, X X Travel"

2007-12-12T22:44:00.000+08:00

After 3 gruelling months of endurance, pain, pressure (maybe pleasure) and work, I am finally confirmed in my travel agency :) no longer floating around like a wandering soul. Hahaha!

It's been one heck of a rollercoaster ride for me. I mean, I'm only 22 and while most guys are mugging their lives at every McDonald's possible, I'm squeezing my time with proposals, quotations and a hell lot of work. Yes, I made the decision to start working 1st after much thought.

Yes I know it's a big and crazy move, but why not? I mean, I've totally average grades, I can't get into the course that I want to and I don't wanna waste my time (and life) away, so why not work?

I went for interviews way before I ORD and confirmed a job a month before my ORD. Rather early, I would say, but better than starting to look for one after that, which might take forever to get. I don't want to miss any opportunity, seriously.

Finally after searching, interviews and a few offers... I made the decision to go to a travel agency. It has been something that I wanted to do ever since I studied tourism in TP, so I thought it's high time I put my skills to the test! Here's what happened during the few months!!!

September

I came in a few days after my official ORD. I was rather scared. Always have this funny 'butterflies-in-my-stomach' feeling whenever I enter a new environment. It's a weird kinda thing. I came very early, so I actually went to the cafe nearby to get a drink and calm my nerves before I went up the lift to my new office. I was scared at first, because I've been to the office a few times and it's kinda scary cos everyone seems to be looking towards the glass door (entrance)... which is fu-reee-ky!

Took me some guts to actually enter the office and was greeted by Carmen, who stood up and led me to my desk. OH MY GOD MY OWN DESK. WOW. Hahaha *bimbo moment*. It's *SO* cool to have your OWN desk. I wasn't expecting it, really!!!

I had intense training with by my director, Theng Hwee, his wife, Siew Yim and all my colleagues, like Tahir, Steve, Kok Yong, Clare... it was quite a bit of a headache, I mean to absorb all of these information. But I know I would have to live on it... so had to press on.

At the end of the month, I had Abacus course, which is some system that I have to use for ticketing. Was rather scared at 1st, cos I can't remember much about ticketing (which I've learnt in school, although it was another system). Thankfully all was well. Final test was not that bad... but I don't know if I can pass well.

October

Yay! Had my birthday... in the office. Hahaha it's not that strange, but I didn't know it was obviously that it was my birthday. I mean, I brought a cake to the office. Is that obvious? Hmmm I must be really bimbotic.

Anyway more work... quite overloaded in a way. My director was monitoring my every move and it's quite scary in a way. I mean it's okay, not that bad, but maybe I wasn't used to this lifestyle yet. Had to get used to staying freaking late in the office.

Abacus tests came out. I pass, but I was *so* close to distinction. ARGH! Crap. I WANT that distinction. Ai yah. Crap. Nvm, at least I pass and I was close to it. But still!!!

Towards the end of the month, I finally got to meet my GM, Jess. I first met her at some party (during Hari Raya) and only got to talk business to here later on. It was fine. I think she's a nice lady :)

November

Wah this month as busy as the previous month. Somehow, I just can't get out of the office as early as I want. I feel like there's so many things to learn. But at the same time, I'm making so many mistakes and I feel like crap. One of them actually cost... okay let's just that things got really bad and it was internal stuff. I'm worried about all these office politics shit. Doesn't sink in well for me. I mean... I'm just so freaking stupid at times.

This month was also busy because there were a lot of meetings and training, which means I would eventually have to stay late. Not that it's bad, but... it seems like... I'm the only one staying back. I must be out of my mind.

During the start of the month, we had this company event and it was quite fun... running around Singapore and stuff. Like Amazing Race. Just that my team, consisting of my accounts/HR, my director and my GM. All the big people. We won in the end. Yay and had good dinner.

End of the month, my boss (GM) gave me evaluation. I don't think I should say it here, cos it's rather sensitive, but it's positive. Only thing is... I might have to change my job scope a little. To make it simpler for you guys, I'm taking a step backward and doing a little more background stuff. Huh? Lesser sales? Oh..

Was a little hard to digest, but it was for the better for me and I agree to it. I mean, if it's better for the company and for myself, okay. I don't mind taking it slow and learning. At least.. you know.. she's giving me a chance. And anyway that day I was told that I'm a confirmed staff. Plus increase in pay. YAY! Hahaha

What the future holds

Well, I have a lot to learn, honestly. I think I might be a little too young (mentally) to be working. But, sooner or later, I would have to start, so I might as well get used to it. I mean, it's not that bad. I'm doing something that I like. I love my company, my work... well, maybe not the bitchy clients. But it's a challenge that I wanna face.

I mean... I know it's gonna be tough and difficult for me, really. I mean, honestly, sometimes I go home feeling terrible and down. But I know that I must hang on and be strong. Mustn't give up!!! Gambatte!!!

Give me strength when I am weary...

2007-12-11T23:03:00.000+08:00

This song portrays my feelings right now... if only God can save me from all of these...

"THE ANSWER"
sung by Corrinne May

I believe you are the answer
to every tear I've cried
I believe that you are with me
My rising and my light

Give me strength when I am weary
Give me hope when I can't see
Through the crosses I must carry
Lord, bind my heart to thee

That when all my days are over
and all my chores are done
I may see your risen Glory
Forever where you are.

Hope He will answer my prayers...

The Little Kid in me...

2007-12-09T23:10:00.000+08:00

When you were young, you always thought, 'If only I can grow up and be big!'. Argh... such innocence. How wrong we were to think of that. Being in an adult world isn't so fun. We human have very complex minds. One man's meat is another man's poison.

You know... somehow I wonder if I'm ever ready for this adult world. I'm freaking 22 and I feel like 12. Hahaha. So weird man. I mean, the other day I was just walking around Bugis the other day and I was so amazed by all the cute toys that some of these shops were selling. Sometimes, I can talk to my friend about serious stuff and then Mickey Mouse comes to the rescue and distract me from it all. I was looking for a gift for my friend and I ended up playing with the bears at Precious Thots.

And I was just telling my other friends how badly I wanna go to Disneyland after watching "Enchanted". The movie was really nice... fairytale dreams in a modern world. If only it was so true. If you've ever been to Disneyland... you would never be sad. It's such a happy place. I feel so good going there. It's like all the cash you spend on the bloody ticket is worth it all. Just seeing happy kids being entertained by cast members and Mickey Mouse posing outside Fantasy Land is amazing. Truly amazing.

I know people who manipulate their way to get what they want. I know people who are out there to cheat me (and other people). And I know people who would play with my feelings. And sometimes, I am either oblivious to this or maybe too naive to even realise that people can be so evil. Why do people want to make their lives *so* difficult? Is it hard to just live in peace and harmony sometimes?

I know this world is complicated. And I know it would be impossible to change it. Some of you might even think that I'm deluding myself into disbelief and that I need to wake up my idea (oh my God, so army!). But... sometimes, I really think that we all need a break and just think about how life needn't be so harsh, so tough.

Sometimes, I see kids playing around and all their innocent smiles and little cute actions that they make. The things that they do, the way they innocently say something silly but cute... oh gosh! Life may be so much better if we were like them. Free from worries, free from anxiety, free from pain...

Ai yah... if only life was so simple . Better get to sleep... I've got adult things to settle tomorrow. :P

Makes Me Wanna T R A V E L ! ! !

2007-12-08T23:11:00.000+08:00

T3, cheaper flights, A380, USA visa probs... argh! Makes me wanna travel NOW! Hahaha I would most probably be travelling within the next few months (for work). And might plan for a holiday (but not so soon)

Thinking about it, I decided to go to ICA to get my passport photo done for my new passport. My passport will only expire in April next year, but you can't travel unless you have 6 months validity. Might as well apply for new [biometric] passport!!!

I know that I can do the photo on the net, but the requirements for the photo is so mah fan, so I thought it would be better if I just went down and get it done. The queue was okay, not too long. Managed to get it done within 10-15 mins. What puzzled me was this... they charge S$5.35.

Five dollars thirty five cents?!?!! Man, I rather pay 65 cents more to round it up, than get 65 cents worth of change. It's rather weird... I mean, don't they find it troublesome themselves?? Funny...

Anyway I took the pic, it was nice, but another strange thing.. my lovely brown hair became black! Huh?!??! It should be brown, since it's bright light. Really strange...

I pasted the photo onto my application and placed it in the deposit box. You save S$10 if you placed it in that box, or post it, or do it via Internet, so... I only need to fork out S$70. Cool! Can't wait to see my new passport, cos my older passports... ai yo, all these passport photos... can be really disastrous to me.

I met Arunan (and Galen, who came later) at Tanah Merah to go to Changi Airport to check out the new Terminal 3 (affectionally known as T3). Coolness. You should have seen me when I stepped into T3. Was acting really mad and like a little kid!!! SO EXCITING!!!

But it truly is. I mean, you think about it... when do you get the chance to check out a world-class airport before its opening? You can roam the departure hall, arrival hall, immigration freely without having to actually travel!!! Coolness... although we had to pay S$1 for entry fee. But nvm, it's still cool!

Arunan gave us a guided tour, since he came the day before. I am glad that he told us about the airport, or else I would be roaming around aimlessly... took a lot of pictures. Cool ones, nice ones, funny ones, crazy ones... you name it, we have it!

The airport is quite nice and eco friendly, compared to many airports around the world. The clear glass look and size of the terminal kinda reminded me of Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi Airport. But only difference? It really looks better. Sorry, I LOVE Bangkok, but I prefer Don Muang Airport a million times more than Suvarnabhumi. It was not completed when it was opened then (when I arrived lah).

Anyway, back to T3. It's rather big and spacious. The airport's look is rather refreshing, clean and it looks just sparkling new (duh, it's a new terminal)! The arrival area has nice cravings from Bali, with a 'green garden'. The boarding gate is kinda 'open', just like the ones in America, so no boarding gate is restricted to only the passengers of a particular flight.

Oh did I mention? Big brands like FIFA, Sony, Apple and many others will be part of the long shopping stretch in the transit area. Whoa... can you believe it?

The shops in and out of the transit area is amazing! Hahahah I mean, at Basement 2, you have many shops and food outlets... it looks like another Plaza Singapura or VivoCity!!!

Shops include Harris, Candy Empire, Watson's, NTUC, Braun Buffel, Shanghai Tang, Madame Butterfly, Goldheart, Burberry, Hugo Boss, M1, The Body Shop...

Food outlets includes Coffee Club, TCC, Crystal Jade (to be opened), Brewerkz, McDonald's, Lerk Thai, Hard Rock Cafe, Dian Xiao Er, Mrs Field's, Genki Sushi, Toast Box...

I think T3 is THE place to be man!!! We should all go there!!!

5 mins for doughnuts! WOW

2007-12-03T23:15:00.001+08:00

You know, I always wonder why people queue up for doughnuts!??! It's crazy, seriously. I mean, all that precious time wasted... you can do a lot of things with it. I think you can even watch Titantic twice and still not get to the front of the queue!!! Then I started queuing. Hahaha

But I only needed to wait 5 mins. WOW amazing.

Earlier on, I went for a swim and then to Sitex (at Expo) with Jim. Sitex was okay and I was SO tempted to buy the Sennheiser earphones that I've been eyeing on for eons... and then I didn't after walking to the stall. The packaging gave me a queasy feeling (note: f a k e).

After much thought, we decided to go to Changi Airport and take a bus to town (he was to catch a movie with his friends in Orchard), while I stop at Suntec and find my way home. Upon reaching Suntec, I saw Donut Factory and surprisingly, the queue was short. Okay, why not? So I queued up and bought a box for my family :D

Decided to walk home via the Marina Promenade and 'beach' area and I kinda realised that the Singapore Flyer had to be a bitch and block quite a big part of that area. Crap, I have to walk a longer route home :(

(I wanna sit on this on my birthday)

Walked home and went through memory lane. Times when Desmond, Arunan and I would walk all the way home, singing, talking crap, laughing after the movies and stuff. I also thought about the 5 guys (again) when I saw some dragonboaters at the Kallang River. Even I tried dragonboat once last year during some army event. And I ran along that path before. Such beautiful memories. Now they are gonna change it into something big.

Finally reached home after a long time and had a relaxing time at home.

The Misunderstood Ones. Please spare our national dragonboat team survivors.

2007-12-02T22:38:00.000+08:00

Okay, so you've got the whole media hogging your papers, TV, Internet and maybe even YouTube on the dragonboat tragedy (that's what it's called in the Straits Times). Apart for 5 brave guys losing their lives for our nation, we have... the survivors.

I really feel so terrible for them. Adrienne told me once, "Can you imagine those guys that are alive? They would feel very, very guilty for being alive..."

I think it's true. I can never imagine myself in such a position. I think you can make a Bollywood movie out of me if that were to happen.

Anyway on a serious note... So they survived a near-death experience. They are happy to have survived, but terrible to be alive. That kinda feeling really sucks, man. You know, you are alive but you lost 5 friends in just a matter of minutes.

Doesn't help that the media make it sound like the team made the decision NOT to listen to the Cambodian authorities, chose not to wear life jackets etc. Sometimes, I don't know if the media is blowing it up, but I have heard people thinking that the team members are to blame for this incident.

People, please spare them! They are already fitching sad that they have to lose their friends and team members in a tragic accident that happened so fast and you guys are pressurising them, making them sound like culprits. Seriously!!! I think they need a break.

I really have to take my hats off to the team captain. Not only does he have to be strong for his other team members, he has to talk to the parents of the then-missing team members, identify the bodies and speak to the media and to all the attendees of the memorial service at the joint funeral last Thurs.

The pressure, the intensity... it's really too much for anyone. I really hope that they will be fine.

So, to all our brave dragonboaters, please cheer up, ignore all those nonsense and stay happy. Reuben, Boon San, Wei Cheng, Jeremy and Stephen will be fine in Heaven and they will not blame you, so please don't blame yourselves.

What's done... is done. Nothing can be done to make them come alive. All we can do is pray to them and move on. I'm sure they want us to be happy. So BE HAPPY. :)

The Existence of Sexual Abstinence

2007-12-02T21:03:00.000+08:00

While having a haircut, I chanced upon an interesting article that might sound rather ancient and obsolete in a fast-moving society... sexual abstinence.

A word that might be unheard of in our current generation and a word that some uphold to. The article was rather interesting, stating down different views on the subject and how some people can either wait for that moment and be the sore thumb or follow the pack and expose yourself to unwanted sickness.

Although we are young and wild, we might want to reconsider our acts. It's not easy, but it's for the better. I mean it does sound fun to do it... judging from the way media makes it sound. Youngsters get curious over it. Yippies get fun from it. Hookers live for it. Doesn't really help that "Promiscuous" is the ringing tone of the convent school girl sitting next to you in the bus (don't get me wrong, I love the song).

I think having AIDs and all those other STDs isn't that fun. Think about it, an hour of sensual and intense fun with that sexy chica for a lifetime of anxiety and pain? The player wouldn't know what he's getting himself into.

Okay, nvm that... I cannot imagine having to become a father without any preparation. It's very unfair to both your partner and the affected unborn child. She has to go through the pain of child-bearing. And what if the single mom have to try and take care of a child herself (if the guy is irresponsible and throws her aside)? Damn, it's terrible.

Maybe we don't have to be a virgin. It's hard to be one anyway. I'm sure we can just stop and be a new convert and stay pure until marriage. Tough, but it's for the better. Why pour all your heart and soul onto someone, when you don't even know if he or she is the one for you? Yes, marriage can go wrong, but I don't think we should give it up altogether. Things can work out.

They mentioned Jade Seah declaring herself a virgin and I suddenly thought of some article that I chanced upon previously and was laughing my way to the sky cos one guy commented,

"These artistes are always complaining about not getting privacy and then they go and grab attention with these kinda news"

Hahaha so true bro!

Anyway, had a new haircut at The Cathay and it's rather cool. Thanks for the recommendation, James! Lovin' it :) then I realised that the colour that I had on my hair might not be so appropriate for a corporate company. Ai ya, nvm lah! Hahaha :P

Went for dinner and drinks with Susan, James and James' friend, Evonn. We were having quite an emo session, cos James was quite emo about some person. Affairs of the heart. Tough man. I hope I wasn't being inappriopriate by making jokes at random times, but I hope he will be better.

Ron welcomes you back to Blog Spot!

2007-12-01T23:44:00.000+08:00

Hey guys! Welcome back to my original blog page!!! Yes, after much thought, I have decided to return back to my original home.

MySpace blog is not the best for me, although it has its own benefits. I think it would be best to put all of my blogs in one centralised spot, so that there will not be any confusion. Besides, I love have a website to myself :)

As you know, I can't possibly repost 20++ posts into my main blog, but I will show the link for you to see, so that you know what has happened to me for the past... year? Hahhaa... enjoy and laugh along.

Just a normal day... (dated 20 Jan 2007 Sat)
KL Drama: "Saya Hati Pecah" [1712.06-19.12.06] (Part 1) (dated 23 Jan 2007 Tue)
KL Drama: "Saya Hati Pecah" [1712.06-19.12.06] (Part 2) (dated 23 Jan 2007 Tue)
Sarang Hae Yo!!! (dated 26 Jan 2007 Fri)
One Table, 4 People... Let's Play Mahjong! (dated 28 Jan 2007 Sun)

Being Alone… it’s not that bad. (dated 08 Feb 2007 Thu)
Why are my brothers so useless and sickening!??!! (dated 12 Feb 2007 Mon)
The Blondest Moment (to date) (dated 13 Feb 2007 Tue)
My Most Diva-ish Moment (dated 17 Feb 2007 Fri)
GONG XI FA CAI!!! Year of the Pig (Day 1-3) (dated 26 Feb 2007 Mon)

What the hell... (dated 01 Mar 2007 Thu)
Amazing Thailand: Chan Ruk Khun (Part 1) (dated 05 Mar 2007 Mon)
Amazing Thailand: Chan Ruk Khun (Part 2) (dated 06 Mar 2007 Tue)
Amazing Thailand: Chan Ruk Khun - Lessons Learnt (dated 07 Mar 2007 Wed)
CNY Day 7: 'Ren Ri' (People's Birthday) (dated 06 Mar 2007 Tue)
My Sinful Weekend... (dated 07 Mar 2007 Wed)
My Horrible Weekend... sort of. (dated 15 Mar 2007 Thu)
My Interesting Weekend (dated 20 Mar 2007 Tue)
I dreamt I was on "Survivor"(dated 22 Mar 2007 Thu)
Bali, here I come!!! (dated 27 Mar 2007 Tue)
Check out this video: Sanjaya Anthem (dated 28 Mar 2007 Wed)

My Mad Weekend. (dated 04 Apr 2007 Wed)
My friend joined Miss Universe Singapore. (dated 04 Apr 2007 Wed)
Power of 3: The Hilary Swank Times (dated 15 Apr 2007 Sun)
Power of 3: Viva La VivoCity (dated 17 Apr 2007 Tue)
Rock goes Pop!!! Avril Lavigne's "Girlfriend" (dated 18 Apr 2007 Wed)
Rock goes Pop! Maroon 5's "Makes Me Wonder" (dated 18 Apr 2007 Wed)
El Momento de Lesbiana: Shakira & Beyonce - "Beautiful Liar" (dated 19 Apr 2007 Thu)
Freestyle Friday (dated 21 Apr 2007 Sat)
“Hmmm, your mutton taste very Indian!” (dated 21 Apr 2007 Sat)
I got rejected by SIA (Singapore Airlines). Hahaha (dated 22 Apr 2007 Sun)
Rejection by NTU (Nanyang Technological University), sick days + deep thoughts… (dated 28 Apr 2007 Sat)
Don’t tell your cardiologist; King’s Brew Burger from Brewerkz is HUGE (dated 30 Apr 2007 Mon)

United 300: Sparta Madness. (dated 05 May 2007 Sat)
Searching for The Room Upstairs @ 42 Waterloo Street /3 Hours for Doughnuts?!?! (dated 06 May 2007 Sun)
Sad Days... What's Up Man?!?! (dated 01 May 2007 Tue)
Goodbye Canon, Hello Olympus (dated 07 May 2007 Mon)
Wild Friday – Happy Birthday Siti! (dated 13 May 2007 Sat)
“What happens if my bus breaks down?” (dated 13 May 2007 Sat)
My mom’s new ‘stone’ (dated 14 May 2007 Sun)
I miss home cooked food for 4 days in a row :( (dated 17 May 2007 Thu)

It’s confirmed. Christina Aguilera’s coming to Singapore :) (dated 18 May 2007 Fri)
The short board game session. (dated 19 May 2007 Sat)
Roller Blading’s Fun (dated 21 May 2007 Mon)
Desmond is back from UK (dated 27 May 2007 Sun)
Shrek Madness: Mini Movie Marathon (dated 31 May 2007 Thu)
On Vesak Day 2007... (dated 31 May 2007 Thu)
I just need to bitch about this... (warning: extremely angry content) (dated 12 Sep 2007 Wed)

Yes, I went for Reuben Kee's wake.

2007-12-01T00:59:00.000+08:00

Dear All,

Yes, after much thought and hesitation and discussion, I actually went for Reuben Kee’s wake. Yes, I know, I had a lot of comments and concerns prior to my risk-taking action. Here are some random comments:

“You wanna go for this wake? Siao! I know you are sad, but don’t have to show empathy this way”

“I think it is okay to go, but don’t you think it’s a little awkward?”

“No! Don’t go!”

“Erh....”

Yes, I know, xiao as I can be, awkward as it may be, I just have a strange feeling that I just have to go for it. I don’t know why. It’s one of those moments where... your head says no, but your heart says yes. And my heart is pounding so heart. Oh for God’s sake, I’m having sleepless nights (then again, maybe cos I’m just sick with cough and other nonsense sickness)

After an awfully terrible Wednesday at work, I made my way to the MRT station. I was feeling rather worried when I was in the train. I was thinking, ‘What if the parents ask me to go back? What if I’m not welcomed at all?’

But I remembered I heard that people are welcome to come to Reuben’s wake. Never mind, I told myself. If they don’t welcome me, at least I tried. Don’t you think it’s weird? Something just called me to his wake. But, anyway...

I reached Bishan MRT and I walked down to his block. It wasn’t too far actually, although the map seems quite detailed. While walking and trying to figure out the place, I saw strapping young fit men walking out of a lane and walking into the coach awaiting along the road. Okay, looks like the national dragonboat team. True enough, it was them! I turn into the lane and I saw the wake premises.

I entered and I was immediately lost. I have never seen so many people attending a single wake in my life! I think there were close to hundreds of them (not including people that were going to come)! Thankfully a kind soul let me to the main area. I wanted to pay respects but there were so many people and they were starting the Christian service. Oh heck, why don’t I just sit down and join them?

I sat down waiting for the service to start. I met 2 young ladies and they were so sweet. Upon hearing how I got to know about Reuben (or rather, how I was actually more of a member of a public and not Reuben’s friend from some place), one of them said, “This is so nice of you to be coming down for his wake”. Welcoming notes.

The service started with hymns and songs (and yes I don’t know much but I just tried to sing along). The thing about me singing hymns and songs of this kind is that I am very restricted to a particular octave. And I can’t sing too low, cos it sounds strange on me. But if I sing the female range, it might either be too high or I get weird stares. Anyway I just sang. Maybe God blessed me with a unique range lah.

After the singing, we sat down and hear dedications to him and stories from his immediate family, his father, his mother and his sister.

Reuben’s mother step up 1st and spoke about him as her precious child. It was a little mushy and lovey-dovey, but I really felt the love from her and him and... I felt so touched upon hearing her speak. She spoke about him being a sweet boy, messaging her when she messages him (he gain strength from his mother’s encouragement), holding her hand at such a big age, being so sweet...

Tears just started falling from my eyes. From that moment, I saw a lot of people with teary faces and saddened looks. I was not alone in this.

Reuben’s father then came out and spoke about the reality and tried to be strong and encouraged us to appreciate lives. He seems rather positive, but sad about the situation. He described the moments they heard about the news and how they reacted towards the moments. He didn’t blame anyone for Reuben’s misfortune. He believed that God had a plan for him.

Reuben’s sister’s speech was the most relevant to me, as she shared about sibling rivalry and love. It’s just so like my family in a way. Except that... the love is not strong, like theirs. She spoke of Reuben turning from her small little scrawny brother to her hunky muscular ‘big’ brother. I think they were very close last time and she felt so much for his loss. She sang a few songs, which was nice of her and I enjoyed them.

2 guests came up. One from the organisation that did a musical with his composition for young kids. The other was Sunny Boys model, who did the Calendar Guys (and yes the previous winner Jason Lau came).

I queued up to pay respects to Reuben. It was really saddening. I looked around and I saw many people with solemn looking faces. I even saw a young guy crying his heart out. I can’t help but feel so heartbroken. I think the lost of a really talented, young and charming man is too much for anyone, really.

I mean, although Reuben and I have NEVER crossed paths, I am affected because a young talent is gone from the face of the Earth. A stunning guy, whom could have any girl he wants. Oh, not to mention that he really has a big heart. He works with ITE students, friends and even little kids. It’s so sweet of him. If only I got to know someone so inspiring earlier.

But after paying respects to him...I felt at ease. At last, I got to be close to such an inspiring man. Of course it’s sad to be meeting him in this state, but at least... I feel happier. And I seriously think that it’s something that God arranged.

Okay pause! God arranged you to meet Reuben like this? Are you out of your mind? NO!

What I mean is... God might have arranged for me to attend the wake to inspire me, to make me more positive and happier.

Thanks to Him, I feel so touched and I just feel that I want to be like Reuben. Okay, I don’t necessarily need to go to Yamaha and started banging the piano or go to Kallang and paddle like there’s no tomorrow (or even beg the modelling agency to give an exception to a guy of 1.65m frame), but I want to have his qualities. Strong, gentle, filial, happy and sweet.

Also, I want to be closer to my family. Upon hearing their speeches, I felt so sad. I haven’t spoken to my maid regularly prior to her departure (back to Udon Thani, Thailand). I haven’t spoken to my ah-ma, who always ask me not to spend so much money on movies and other stuff. I haven’t spoken much to my cousins. I haven’t spoken much to my aunties, whom brought me up to who I am. And to my immediate family, my brothers and my parents. I cried, just thinking about the distance that I have created between them.

And I also wanna show my love to my friends too! I wanna show them that I care and that I feel a lot. I mean... I think what I want to do is change whatever I can to make my life better. And not to give up on myself. Sometimes, it’s just so hard to live life. But we must not give up. We must move on and be strong.

This is what I want to be. Strong in the mind, body and soul. I will do whatever I can to make something out of myself! God, thank You for giving the opportunity to be inspired. And Reuben, take care and rest in peace, gentle giant. It’s a pity that I never got to know you, but I’m sure we would have kick it off well (haha, I hope)! Anyway, see you in Heaven!!!

That’s all for now, folks. Thank you for taking the time to read.

Farewell to the brave souls...

2007-11-26T22:41:00.000+08:00

Hey everyone. Oh my God yes it’s me again! How is everyone? I hope all of you are fine. The last time I blog was eons ago! Hahaha so sorry for the late update. I’ve been terribly busy with work and stuff. Got a new job as a tour consultant and it’s been fun. Stressful but good. And I’m so busy, until I don’t have time for myself at times! Hahaha terrible right, yeah.

I would really really love to talk about my life, but I feel that this issue is more important than anything else in my life. I mean, the weird thing is that I really don’t know any of these guys, but I really feel so much for them.

I woke up yesterday morning, feel sick and sian, cos I’m like coughing and having a terrible cold. What was gonna happen next didn’t make things any better. I was rudely awake by the morning papers. I woke up and the headline was this:

“FIVE MISSING S’PORE ROWERS FEARED DEAD”

Whoa! Okay... and I read and read... it sounded really terrible... and I saw a familiar name amongst this sentence:

‘The missing five are: Jeremy Goh, 24; Stephen Loh, 31, REUBEN KEE, 23; Poh Boon San, 27 and Chee Wei Cheng, 20”.

REUBEN KEE?!?!? Isn’t he that popular guy... that Mr Singapore 2007 or something... (okay I sound biased, but his name struck my mind 1st)

I thought I must be dreaming. I immediately turned the page and saw that charming smile of his. OH MY GOD. You gotta be kidding me. And I saw the faces of 4 other rather dashing men. My imaginary jaw just fell onto the floor. My heart skipped a beat.

All of them are barely even 30 (except for one... but still)!! And... what??!?! Missing!?!? Tonle Sap River, Cambodia??? I felt a twitch. My God. As I was home (cos of my sickness) the whole day, I kept checking the news... praying and hoping that they will be alive. Their bodies were found. But they didn’t make it. It’s a real pity. How could this be possible???

I asked myself, “Why did they leave the world so fast? What did they do to deserve this? Why is God so unfair???” I wish God could answer my questions.

Forget about the life jackets. I bet you, thousands of dragonboaters are doing the same thing and they are just suay (unlucky) to have met such a terrible fate. Forget about the choppy river. I’m sure they managed to row without a problem.

I just don’t get it. Why do all these bad things happen to nice people? A filial son, a student motivator, a multi-talented guy, a nice chap and a young boy who barely reach adulthood. Why did God have to do this?

I thought to myself... I think and think... and even cried over it.

But, then I realised that God must have a reason for this. It may not be sensible, but He has a plan. Now don’t get me wrong. I’m not getting all religious and stuff, but I believe that He does things like that for a reason. A tragic one, seriously. But, yeah...

Now you must be wondering... I don’t know them. Why are I getting so emo over it? Well... I actually asked myself that. But I think it’s maybe because most of them are close to my age range and it’s just sad to know that they... are so young. And they don't deserve this crap.

The one that is closest to my age (and is someone I actually recognise) is Reuben Kee.

Like many others, I couldn’t believe that he was one of the missing few. I first saw his picture on the newspaper (ironically, Sunday Times too) about an interview on keeping fit. Wow, this guy must be really cool.

Then I also found out that he composes music, is very sporty and is a Mr Singapore 2007. Wow... his parents must be very proud of him. Moreover, he seems to be the kind that every guy would want to be and every girl would want to have. But God took him earlier.

I know this is weird... to be blogging and emo over someone I don’t even know. I mean, it has come to a point where I think it’s seems rather gay to be all so emo. I know, as gay as it sounds, I feel for him. I mean, at 23 years old, he has achieved a lot. I mean all these music, contests and fitness... I really feel that he’s lucky in every way.

I’d have never expected something so terrifying and tragic to shaken the lives of him and those around him. It seem so sudden and unexpected, somewhat even wrong. Imagine the parents' hearts, the saddened friends and family and the confused public.

But all of these has actually taught me a few things:

1. Never give up on yourself
2. Never make regrets for yourself
3. Live life to the fullest
4. Never take your loved ones for granted
5. Be happy, always.

I think that even though I don’t know him at all, he has inspired me to do more than I can. Sometimes, I feel like life is really terrible and sickening (and yes I do feel depressed at times), I shouldn’t give up. Cos, life is short, really. I think it’s best to just do the best in whatever you can and achieve something to be proud of. I have a lot to do now. I think I have the motivation to soar to greater heights.

To Reuben, my only regret is not getting to know a wonderful guy like you. And I am sure that your family members and friends were proud of you. Please keep them safe in your heart. And thanks for the inspiration.

And to all the other dragonboaters, I also wish that you will rest in peace and may God bless you and your family and friends. Please be safe up in Heaven.

To everyone else, please don’t give up on yourself. Always believe in yourself. Be strong.

This is Ron, signing off. Hasta la vista, amigos!

Plastic Alert!!!

2006-03-13T20:28:00.000+08:00

Hey everyone! As you know it's been a long time since I mentioned the plastics. The horrible bunch that hurted my ego, burnt the friendship that was a 'facade' and kinda ruined a lot of things. They are a horrible bunch of people. Terrible. And yet I have to face them and fake everything, just to get by the day. ARGH! Here are the 3 incidents that happened:

1. I saw Kenny a few times and managed to avoid him, but we happen to get on the same bus one day. I tried to avoid him when he kinda tapped on me, but he kinda gotten my attention in the end, so I had no choice but to just talk to him normally. That few stops seemed like forever loh. It was one of my first few weeks in OETI. Or later.

2. I saw Timothy on the Urban section of the newspaper!!! And guess where was he featured on? *GOOD LOOKING SECTION*! Oh God! What are they thinking??? I'll scan the stupid outfit of his for you.

3. I saw Greg (the head of the plastics) with Kenny one day when they walked across the road after camp. I was with my camp mates, buying ice cream and stuff. He looked at me and I kinda look at him, happy that I'm on the right side.

Life is so much better without their nonsense. :P

The Career Fair

2006-03-04T23:32:00.000+08:00

Hey everyone! Today I went for the career fair at Suntec! But before that, I did what I have been wanting to do for ages: Watch "Singin' In The Rain"!!! I bought the DVD like some time ago cos I really like the movie and I wanted to watch it again after I borrowed it from the library the other time. But, I've been so busy... and not many people would appreciate such movies. Most people think it's just a few mad people singing in the rain with yellow raincoats. Damn.

Anyway I enjoyed myself by watching it (and yes, it's a damn good movie) and I got back all the emotions that I had when I first watch it a year or so ago. Acting then was so good. And the songs! Oh God, it's so musical!

After watching, I prepared to move out of my house and head straight to the fair. I was a bit disappointed cos my good friend Siti can't make it. But she's going to the fair with the mother. Understandable. Anyway I still have Vanitha!!! We actually called each other and were discussing about what to wear. I went from semi-formal (which I didn't know how) to funky! Hahhaah I just add a sweater vest kinda thing to my long sleeve shirt, trade the pants for jeans and voila! My funky look! (Unfortunately no pic)

So I went to Suntec and I was a little bit late, but that woman was late. So I waited. And waited. And waited. Finally she came (after about 13 3-min songs and 1 Ice Lemon Tea from McDonald's)! Ai yo... her friend kinda fitchy with her and stuff. That's why.

Anyway we went in and we kinda saw the same old things. I end up looking at hot people. I don't know why. Wherever I go, I just notice them! Hahahah besides that, we just went looking around, searching for my Power 98FM (cos I wanna look for job opportunities). Then I met Stewart (my junior from TP) at some tourism booth. Adrienne popped by for a moment before leaving shortly :( she lost some cash! So sad! Got robbed! But she's gotta new phone! Quite nice! Motorola.

After browsing through various 'normal' universities from China and local propaganda from the Police and stuff, we went off to Marina Square. We had dinner at Carl's Junior. Then I fitch about all my problems to Vanitha and vice versa. It's really nice to have her around. It's so hard to find good true friends nowadays, so I'm glad that she listened :P

Anyway, we watched "Final Destination 3" after that and boy, was it freaky! It wasn't totally scary, but I was shocked and I did get a bit scared. Vanitha thought that I was totally 'drama' to the max! Hahaha!

After the movie, we made our way back home. I took 133 back home... thinking about how wonderful my day was despite the last minute changes in a lot of things :)

My Kopi Bring all the uncle here!

2006-02-27T23:09:00.000+08:00

Hey everyone! Just wanna blog on some crazy happenings lately. Yeah, went out with Christina and Phyllis a few days back (Saturday, to be exact) and this is the result of it. Hahahha me posing like Missy Elliot. So nonsense can?

Anyway, Phyllis and I came up with a Singaporean version of "Milkshake" called "Kopi":

KOPI (to the tune of "Milkshake" by Kelis)

My kopi bring all the uncle here
and damn right, it's better than yours
damn right, it's better than yours
I pao until jin hou lim ah!

My kopi bring all the uncle here
and damn right, it's better than yours
damn right, it's better than yours
I pao until jin hou lim ah!

La la la la la
Jin hou lim ah
la la la la la
si bei shiok

HAHHAHA xiao right? The rest of Saturday was spent with Jeremy at his house, then out with Susan and James.

The Interview

2006-02-18T10:25:00.000+08:00

[WARNING: Lame and fun content ahead. The names of interviewer and interviewee used is 'created' for leisure purpose. Any similarities of any sort is coincidental and unintentional. We apologise for any inconvenience caused.]

RON TAN, alumni of ACS (Barker) and Temasek Polytechnic, has led a very risky and crazy life. LAME TIMES managed to interview the crazy boy and get the updates his life as an NSF, rumours and gossips on him and what the future holds for him.

LT: Hello Ron! Welcome to the Lame Times Online Interview

Ron: Thank you for inviting me to your interview! It's a pleasure to be here.

LT: So now you're in the army. How has it been?

Ron: Well, it's been really tough, especially BMT phrase. It was like the worst time of my life. I think crying was like a norm in there for me. It wasn't easy because regimental life is SO not my kinda of life. To me, I'm wasting my time here. But I know there's no choice and I just gotta do it, so I guess I have to make the best out of it.

I had my own fun here and there, talking to people, laughing, making jokes etc. There have been ups and downs, but yeah... that's life! My current unit is fine. Also it's a school and I'm only gonna be there for a while, I think it's a million times better than BMT.

LT: I heard that this unit that you are in is a stay out unit. What do you do during your free time?

Ron: I make the best of whatever I have... or I think so. Hahahah! I just hang out with my friends, surf the Net, read, exercise a little etc. I recently open the doors of my house to many guests for CNY and it was a pretty cool occasion. I was happy that most of my friends came and that everyone had fun.

Other than that, it's just been personal gatherings here and there.

LT: Apparently we heard from sources that you weren't too happy on the day that you held the CNY celebration. It was something to do with 2 guys or something?

Ron: Oh my God YEAH LOH! Hahahah

LT: What happened?

Ron: Oh well, I invited a whole list of people to my celebration about 2 weeks before the celebration. It is a big thing for me because I seldom bring people to my house due to problems. My mother wasn't even sure about this before it's like there were so many people coming and it will be crazy!

Well anyway, I invited about 4 of my friends from BMT. 2 of them, let's call them GH and AX. I asked both of them. When I was online, AX told me that he can make it and that GH will be coming with me. Okay, fine, sweet!

Then on the day itself, they didn't call or message me at all. I called them and stuff, but no answer. Fine. I messaged them after the celebration, asking them why they couldn't make it. No reply. I saw both of them online at diff. times and I asked them why. Same thing.

I'm pissed not because they can't make it, but because they don't even have the proper courtesy to tell me why they couldn't make it. I'm not asking for some family sh*t drama problem answer, but just tell me something! It's really rude and downright ungracious of them.

To make things worse, GH actually asked me to buy something for the army e-mart because he has 'no access to his camp's one', so I bought for him. We were supposed to meet one day, so that I can pass him the thing. And we've agreed on a time and place. Just 10 mins before the actual time, he messaged me, telling me that he cannot make it for don't-know-what reason? ARgh! And you know what? He was in Dhoby Ghaut, I was in Orchard. How far is it, could you tell me???

It's really irritating 'cos I was already there waiting at Orchard like before the meeting time, so you could've imagined my anger. Thank God I had something to do. Or else... argh I just can't stand them any more.

LT: Have you learned anything from there?

Ron: A lot of things. I think it's harder to make friends when you are older, so make more friends if you are very young!!! Hahahaa! Just be careful of who you are making friends with. And don't get upset over things like that. It's hard, but that's reality.

I also learnt that there are a lot of funny people out there. All sorts of people, when you enter the army. It's truly an eye opener.

LT: You also had a tiff with someone else recently in your unit. Care to share?

Ron: Oh my God! Can you imagine someone looking through your private SMS, calling you fat and rude in a week? Damn! It's like so irritating. You can check my previous entry actually, cos it's a long story too. In fact, this guy also kinda pissed off my buddy in camp!!! He kept teasing him about a watch that my buddy lost and it was SO not funny. God!!!

LT: Let move off topic. How has it been like to be without your good friends, Desmond and Arunan?

Ron: It's been really really tough. I'm so close to them, especially after secondary school. We go out like every week and stuff, so when they left for England, it was a really difficult transistion because a part of me was gone. I couldn't believe that it was happening so fast!! It's like, I thought I was gonna be a boring person after all.

But things are getting better right now. I'm coping fine here, even without their presence. I'm making effort to meet as many of my friends as possible, doing my own thing etc. It's been fun. I do miss them a lot, but it's not all bad. We are still good friends and will always be good friends :D

LT: One last question, what does the future holds for you?

Ron: I don't know. I do hope to go to a university after my NS, but I'm sure that it will be difficult, so I guess I'll use my diploma to get me some job first before thinking about education. But it really depends. Anything can happen.

I did apply for NTU and I'm thinking of either going to Hawaii or Oklahoma (both in USA) for my further studies. I've also considered working in places you would never expect me to think of, including SIA and Disneyland. Hahhaah! Let's see how things go... you never know what will happen to me.

LT: Okay... thanks for your time. We hope to see you again!

Ron: Thanks for this opportunity! It's been a pleasure!! Have a good day!!! :D

This Irritating Guy!!!!

2006-02-17T21:43:00.000+08:00

Wah lau I'm like so irritated with this guy can??? Okay let's called him BB, cos he's a bloody bitch. Anyway here's my 3 'short' stories which brought me to this conclusion:

Story 1: The Handphone

I bring a Nokia 2100 to camp. Non camera, non colour, so it's boring. I added little translucent stars in the phone to decorate it. BB and his buddy were so intrigued by the idea, they wanted to see the phone, so okay, I let them see the phone.

Little did I know that he looked through this message of mine!!! Wah lau!!! He kept asking obscene and disgusting questions and obviously I wasn't in the mood to answer them. I mean HELLO YOU JUST INTRUDED INTO MY PRIVACY!

Some days later (after ignoring him and not talking to him), he asked me if I was angry. Obviously I am, dumb question. Then I told him that he shouldn't look into my messages. Guess what was the reply?

"I accidently see the message".

What rubbish!!! Hello? If you did it accidently, you would have left the area and apologised, right? And anyway, even if you pressed the same time many times, you will get to the 'write message' in my phone, not 'inbox'. Who's he trying to kid???

Story 2: So Fat

I was in the locker room with the rest of the platoon. Obviously people would talk about anything under the sun. One of my platoon mates asked me about my weight. I told him I'm 60kg. Overhearing it, BB said, "Wah, so fat ah?"

Bloody bitch! Aren't muscles heavier than fats?!?!?

Story 3: Do You Mind?

I was in the trainee lounge during lunch time. Don't know why he has to sit next to me. Anyway, he was sitting on one section of the papers and I wanted to take it, so I said, "BB... sorry do you mind..." then he stood up and

"Don't know how to say 'excuse me' ah???"

I just left the place with his buddy. He asked me to go up and read the papers cos one of my friends has the papers anyway. So irritating can???

Hollaback Moment

Well... he's a total bitch. Period.

I mean... he's 10x more feminine than all the girls in the world combined. I mean, hello??? He gossips about everyone, talks about everything, sound like some ah-soh at the market and tags along with his buddy like as if his buddy is his husband. Oh, I'm sorry, HER husband.

Singapore Idol Auditions - Heatwaaaaaaaaaave!

2006-02-12T23:17:00.000+08:00

Yes. The day for the auditions of Singapore Idol 2 is FINALLY here!!! Yeah!!!! *clap hands* I've been waiting so bloody long for this day to come! I remembered queuing up overnight in 2004, just to be the 1st 500 or something to be auditioned on that day itself. The super stormy weather, the pain of rejection, my glittery hair (don't laugh), stupid organisers blah blah blah.

This year I want to play my cards differently. I thought it will be better if I didn't queue up overnight. I mean... I only slept 1 freaking hours the last time round, so why tire myself out for 2 mins of audition? Might as well come cleaner and fresher :D so a few friends of mine and I came together to achieve a dream that's so far... the next Singapore Idol!

DAY 1 - 11hrs for... what?!??!

Woke up at 5.45am in the morning. Shower and prepared myself to leave the house. Was supposed to meet Christina (friend from poly) and Jeremy at 7am, but I left a little late, cos I had to buff my nails, make my hair, drink 'pi pa kao' etc... all the essential stuff before leaving. I mean you don't wanna go unglam and with a horrid voice right?

Listen to some fast music... great 'workout' beat. Hahaha! Reach *scape at Cineleisure Orchard around 7.15am. Wah lau it's so freaking long, it's as if the whole of Singapore is here! Hahahaha and more and more people just started coming in one by one!!! Goodness!! Managed to find Christina after what seems to be like forever!!! Called Jeremy and he came with his friend, Imran. It was quite quiet in a way, maybe cos we just met lah. Then after a while, things started to get more fun.

The thing about Imran is that he's SO freaking funny! It's like... he can be an entertainer loh! From his Anita Sarawak imitation to his million accents, he just knows how to crack you up! He's just so fun lah!

In between the 1st few hours, we took turns to walk out to go to the toilet, get breakfast etc. I didn't buy any food cos I didn't really want that to affect my voice (can't sing when I eat). Later on, while accompanying Christina to buy food, Phyllis (Christina's friend's sister) came and joined the queue. Nice girl.

Last year, it rained like hell. This year, the heat was on. Seriously, you can fry eggs on the floor and get a free suntan within 1 hour. Free of charge. Don't have to go to those tanning nonsense. And forget about Marie France Bodyline. I think I was prepared to lose 5kg with the heat burning off my fats! Hahahah!

You know what's the most salah thing to happen? To get interviewed when you are complaining like a typical Singaporean about weather, food etc... guess what? It happened to me. They just filmed me complaining about everything. Oh my God! Then the producer just asked me to tell them my age and stuff. Then she asked me to sing.

'Oh my God... should I?' Then with all my guts, I just went for it and sang my heart out. Everyone was looking. Quite scary. But the producer liked it and I thanked her in return. Wah lau. Little did we know that this is only the beginning.

Daniel Ong walked by and interviewed Jeremy and Imran. They had to sing out in a 'showdown'. Kinda silly of Daniel to come up with that but, oh well, guess it was for entertainment purpose. Jeremy was good. Imran also good. Ai yo. I don't know if I can make it through lah. Then we got filmed again for this '5 days to Singapore Idol' trailer. Ai yo! Enough attention!!!!!!!!!!!!

11 hours of nonsense. All sorts, I can tell you. I accompanied Jeremy to the toilet like every 45 mins!!! Goodness!!! And there was this mad guy who kept looking at me. Using the umbrella to block him didn't work lah! He kept bothering me with questions and stuff like that. He talks weirdly some more. Ai yo!!!

Then we have heat. A LOT of heat! It was super hot! Most of us were like perspiring in our shirts/dresses/skirts/whatever clothings. The hosts of Singapore Idol didn't make things better. They tried to get us to be excited, but the sun kinda drained out energy out. Like hello!??! hahahaha

To add on the to nonsense, we sighted some funny people. There was a young girl whom we call 'Tiara' because she has a 'tiara' on her head. She looks salah (sorry). Then in the midst, there was a 'pink lady' wannabe. Hahaha but she looks like a rock version, you know like the real singer Pink? Yeah... but whether or not we are looking at that, I don't know...

At 6pm, we finally reached the front of the queue. My friends and I were super excited. Like yea!!! We're gonna be auditioned. It turned out that they've stopped auditions for the day, so we are just gonna register. Like what?!??! Wah lau eh!!! So we went to register for Singapore Idol. The good news is that we will be the first batch to audition for the day, so we don't have to wait so long the next day. Thank God!!!

All of us were totally shagged. I mean queuing up like that isn't that easy. But it was the support from each other that gave us motivation. I was supposed to meet Sangeetha and stuff, but I was so tired, I just couldn't bring myself to disappoint Sangeetha by disappointing her (what an irony!)! It's like... my legs were really tired and I don't have much energy to do anything, so I went straight back home, cook noodles to eat.. rested a while and sleep. Can't take it anymore!!!

DAY 2 - The Time Has Come...

Woke up slightly earlier. Same thing over. Just that we are meeting a little later cos we have a confirmed timing and we know that we are definitely gonna be the 1st batch of people to be auditioned. Yay me! Hahahah :P

Anyway I came early because I was prepared. And bored lah, so just walk to the place. Then I realised that I was the 1st (oh my God) and guess who was 2nd? The mad guy (aka Cheeko)!!! ARGH!!! I tried listening to my iRiver... but he still talked to me. I just replied normally and then thankfully he left into his own world of BSB (yes he's gonna sing that) and 'warm ups'.

Jeremy was the 1st one of my whole group of friends (and new friends) to come. He came and we talked about the songs we are singing. He's just worried lah. I can see that he's really concerned about his singing, voice, song etc. I honestly think he's got nothing to worry. Maybe a bit of pitch here and there at times. I think he's overworrying lah. Really.

One by one the others came. The fun is back. Almost everyone changed into something new. Oh damn I feel so dirty lah. But I dried my clothes and I put perfume, so all is good. And if not for the bloody woman, I wouldn't wear back the same thing. Oh nvm!!!

Anyway earlier on the security told me that it was on a first-come-first-serve basis. Nonsense! Like hello? We were promised to be 1st!! Nonsense. Luckily didn't trust him. Nonsense. NONSENSE! hahahah! :P

Phyllis told me that I'm a photo freak. I just realised that I took a lot of pics. In the queue, out of the queue, with umbrellas etc. I'm crazy!!! I don't know why... I'm starting to love candid and mad shots. I even took a pic of myself with my registration number. Yeah... as if I'm Top 30 right now.

Anyway we re-confirmed out position and sat at a certain holding area, whereby we will wait to be escorted to the audition rooms (finally!!!) . Christina helped me take pics of my friends and I with our number tags. Really cute leh! Hahahaha! Then Imran got interviewed (ai yo), then Christina and Jeremy too.

Ai yo... then we were escorted up to 9th Level. It was really cool. I feel so digitalised! Hahaha! Stupid b**** didn't let me wear my tag below part of my T-shirt because my shirt has an 'emblem' that says 'Music is the answer'. What's the point of paying for a T-shirt that cost nearly $40... if the judges can't see it in the first place!???! Wah lau!

Anyway, we waited again. Imran got interviewed yet again. But this time round, Cheeko got interviewed. His words and speech were awfully weird, but we can't like laugh cos they were filming. Ai yo! Cannot take it. Imran made me laugh and laugh and laugh. God! This is infectious lah!

Then we finally reached a step closer to the audition rooms. We sat outside the rooms, while being instructed on what to do when we get in there. This Imran started his jokes again. Still laughing. I had to ask him to stop lah... but it kinda makes me relax in a way. Hahaha I mean I was nervous... but it's really not bad at all.

I learned a new word thru him. It's called 'boyat'. Actually, one of the girls sitting opposite us were talking about their number tags being 'salah', so one of them said 'goyat'. But it sounded like 'boyat' and Imran made a joke out of it. And the following contestants were told by dear Imran to think of 'boyat' every time we get nervous! HAHA!

Anyway, Imran went in after a number of people went in. Next was my turn. Then I suddenly think about what the judges will think about my performance. I remembered being so 'blur', cos I didn't know that this round was not the real judges, but the producers and some music critic, whatever! Yeah... and they stopped me halfway through my song the last time round. But I know that... whatever happens, I'll do my best.

Imran comes out. Oh dear. But I'm really relaxed. I went in and introduced myself and my song. Alamak. The same thing happened last year. I looked into the camera!!! ARGH! Hahahah nvm... cos I didn't noticed until the producer told me to look *away* from the camera before I sing. And I just sang.

Okay... they didn't stop me. Good. They look quite impressed (I think). Then they asked about my job. NS, I told them. Then they were concerned about not being able to make it blahblah blah and I tried to defend myself. Then came a long chat on singing tips, friends, religion (huh??)... then it was over. Ai yo!!! It's OVER!

Okay there might be a bit of hope. So, off I went to the results room. In less than 5 minutes, a lady came up and stood in front of the results room,

"Okay.. these are the numbers that are not making it to the next round. 1-something..., 1-something... and 1329."

I looked at my number tag. Oh. Alamak. Me ah? So off I went down. It's sad, but I was cool. I went over to Long John's Silver to meet the others. Christina got in. Andy got in. Jeremy got in. Imran got in. The rest no, including cute Phyllis. Ai yo. Everyone was kinda sad for those who didn't make it.

But I'm like... "hai ya... nvm lah! 2nd time already, I can handle it". In fact... throughout the day after that... I was happy! It's kinda like a load off your mind. I mean, think of it positively, at least they didn't stop me halfway through the song and that's an achievement already because I think I did better than the last time round. It's all cool.

Surprisingly I ate Long John's Silver. Hahha I don't like it, but the breakfast set... oh my God quite nice leh!

CONCLUSION

I learn that in life, we've gotta handle rejections. All sorts of rejections. I've been rejected once. And yes this is the 2nd time. It's hard, but I mustn't let it affect my dream and vision. It's a long way ahead, but life goes on.

And Jeremy told me this, "You sing because you like it, not for the money or to be on TV." And I thought to myself... 'Yeah... I do like to sing!'. I mean isn't that why I joined the competition in the 1st place!?!?!?!

I've learnt from this. I'm happy because at least I know that I've tried my best and that I think I did better than last season. And I made new friends. And I took lotsa pics (haha). And I had a positive attitude. It's cool!!! So everyone, DON'T GIVE UP. I've been rejected but IT'S NOT THE END FOR ME.

And remember... whenever you feel stressed, nervous, sad etc... think of BOYAT! Hahahah it'll make you laugh :P

VOTE FOR US!!!

Me waiting in the never ending queue...

And still waiting...

HELLO???? You auditioning for Singapore Idol for Memoirs of a Geisha??

MISERY!!! It's so bloody hot!!!

Looks who's getting interviewed... Daniel Ong interviewing Imran (left) and Jeremy (right)

Pretty Phyllis in da block!!!

Nice shoes. Hahahha that's how 'sian' the queue was... do you think this is real Nike btw?

Your next Singapore Idol finalists. Hahahah just kidding. But soon lah.

Christina and I before entering 'danger zone'. Ahahaha :P

Kawaii!!! Hahahahah Imran and I at the 9th Level.

Lo Hei!!!

2006-02-07T23:13:00.000+08:00

Hey everyone, although today isn't 'people's birthday' (or 'ren ri', the 7th day of Chinese New Year), I had 'yu sheng', which is a local dish that is taken during Chinese New Year. It's kinda like a tastier and colourful version of what seems like a 'fish salad'.

I was at Long Beach Marina South Restaurant with my family and my father's company and friends for his company's dinner. It was kinda rushy for me, because I had to change from all green to all glam! Hahahah! My father had to pick me up from camp and then I had a quick shower and changed to rush to the venue for the dinner.

The atmosphere was okay. I wasn't totally interested in the dinner because... I mean after all, it's my father's company dinner, not my family dinner, so I've nothing to talk about. Even during family functions, I've nothing to talk about, except maybe complain about stupid so-called 'friends'. Hahhaah

But I was shifted (thanks to my parents) from their table to the next table. And I was sitting next to someone that I don't like!!! Wah lau this friend of my father ah... very irritating lah. He's fu-reek-ing obnoxious, loud and irritating. I just can't stand him. And he gave me a CLOCK for my birthday last time! A CLOCK LEH!!! Wah lau!!!!

Anyway I tried to control my anger, frustration and whatever crap feeling I was feeling and just enjoy the dinner. In fact, the dinner was good! 'Yu sheng' was fabulous, the fish was smooth, the lobster sashimi was unique... everything was good! There was black pepper crab, noodles, great veggies and many more!!!

The dessert was a disaster, though. It was COFFEE PUDDING!!! Oh my God! Who in the world eats that lah! Ai yo... sorry no offence to coffee lovers, I'm just more of a tea person. Well anyway, had a great time :D

Attack of the Mad Man!!!!!

2006-02-06T23:02:00.000+08:00

Oh my God!!! Have you ever wondered how you can get into trouble with the army uniform. Here are a few reasons:

1. Smoking in public with the uniform on
2. Having intimate moments with your other half in the uniform (extreme cases)
3. Fighting with the uniform on.

Well... my incident wasn't any of the above. I was walking towards home from the bus stop at the MRT (took a bus from camp), when suddenly a mad man shouted at me:

Actual conversation:

Mad man: "Army ah? Ni shi army ah? Lai lai..."
mad man barges towards Ron
Ron: 'Oh no... what the hell does he want? Stay calm, stay calm'
Ron divert walking route
Mad man: "Lai lai"
mad man walks very quickly
Ron: 'Oh damn... you must not panic... you must not panic'
Ron's heart nearly reaches high blood pressure level.
Mad man: "Wo shi chong PAP lai de. Ni shi chong na yi ge camp lai de?'
Ron: 'Ignore him. Just walk away'
Ron looks forward and walk away.

Translation:

Mad man: "Hey, you're from the army right? Come come..."
mad man barges towards Ron
Ron: 'Oh no... what the hell does he want? Stay calm, stay calm'
Ron divert walking route
Mad man: "Come here"
mad man walks very quickly
Ron: 'Oh damn... you must not panic... you must not panic'
Ron's heart nearly reaches high blood pressure level.
Mad man: "I'm from the PAP. Which camp are you from??'
Ron: 'Ignore him. Just walk away'
Ron looks forward and walk away.

This is ONE HELL of a type of Monday Blues, I tell ya!!!

Gong Xi Fa Cai!!!

2006-02-01T21:02:00.000+08:00

GONG XI FA CAI AND HAPPY LUNAR NEW YEAR EVERYONE! It's the year of the Dog! Wow! Hahahha I hope that 2006 will be a good year, man! Here's a brief on my Chinese New Year (28th Jan - 31st Jan):

Eve: Went out with my friend, J. Had quite a nice swim at Kallang Basin, then we had lunch around the area. Hard to find food, so ended up eating vegetarian. Then we did shopping at the supermarket. Head to his place for a little while (cos most of the shops are closed anyway) before heading off our own ways. He went over to his brother's place for reunion dinner.

My reunion dinner was held the day before, so I just went back home and did my own stuff. I wanted to go to Chinatown, but no one to go with (ARUNAN!!!!!! :( ) Hahahaha... after 12 midnight, I sneaked out of the house to buy McDonald's. Hahahah... I wanted to buy an ice-cream. I don't know what made me buy a Filet-O-Fish meal. Hahhaah my younger bro and I digged into our meals and I slept quite late. Really late.

McDonald's Jalan Besar at 1+ in the freaking morning!

1st Day: Was awaken by policeman thanks to a fire 'breakout' near my house. Quite scary at first, but come to think about it, it was quite an experience!!! My mother told me after the incident that it was the year of the 'Fire' Dog this year. Not sure if that's of any coincidence, but yeah...

Anyway went to my grandmother's place and guess what's the topic of the day? The Fire! Hahahaha we were showing video clips and photos from my phone and how interesting the incident was. My grandmother laughed because I took a pic of her and part of my family (you can see it in the previous entry) and she look pretty funny! Hahahah :P

After that I went to one of my big uncle's place (from my mother side) and it was an okay experience (like every year). I'm always talking to a few of my relatives and just hanging out. Watched my brother play blackjack, while getting endless persuasions of a game or 2. And my elder brother is always watching soccer. Hahaha. My mother would play mahjong. Ai yo... only difference? My father didn't leave earlier than usual. He would usually be with his friends.

My family (except my mother) and I left quite early and had dinner at Pizza Hut at Heartland Mall. I had spaghetti and pizza. We went back home and had a quite cosy evening together.

2nd Day: A tradition in my family. We went to Grace Lodge at Punggol. Kinda like a Buddhist-oriented old folk's home. I've been going there ever since I knew of my existence. My grandmother and mother would pay respects, then we will pay respect to the head nun, then we will give ang pows to the old folks. It's cool in a way :D

We had our lunch at Punggol Plaza's Food Court. Had ban mian for my lunch. Hahhaha! Then I went over to one of my mother sister's house. It was quite boring. I just sat in front of the TV for like... 4 hour straight? But I managed to watch "Golden Globes" on cable. Oh my God Mariah was on it!! She's so pretty :P

And I'm happy that" Desperate Housewives" won Best Series. It's like ROCKIN'!!!! "Brokeback Mountain" won Best Movie or something like that!!! Cool!!! Way to go, Ang Lee!!! After watching that, I just felt that I need to get my a** back home. I went home (without my mother) and my father was at home. He brought me to Parkway for dinner and we tried the Teppanyaki at Sakae Sushi. Okay lah. Quantity actually too little for me. Hahahah.

I went to Gramaphone and I don't know how come my father bought "Mee Pok Man" and "12 Storeys"!!! hahaha but, by Eric Khoo... should be good. Went home after that.

3rd Day: It's my CNY celebration! I woke up and did my baking, preparation before. My 1st guest? My BMT buddy, Yong Quan!!! Still the same, just that he's been busy at his unit. Poor thing leh. He has to do lotsa stuff in his unit. All the rifle, marching, blah blah... so sianz. I hope he will be okay, really.

Most of my friends were late. They called one after another at around 1-2pm, so my house nearly collapsed!!! I mean you have the mad Yesteryears, the mad Vanitha and her megamike voice, the crazy OETI gang and many more. Although I couldn't entertain all of them at one time, I'm just so happy to see them because they were.. happy! Hahahah! I'm also happy because they kinda like my brownies :D Thanks for the encouragement guys!!!!

Anyway after that, I left with Jinhui to meet my friend Li-Shan. That girl... went to Perth, Australia for studies. Just came back, so we went out with her. She was good. Glad that she's doing fine :D But it's a real pity that she couldn't go to my house. We had dinner (actually, I had dinner cos both of the girls were full), then we went to Lido to buy movie tix. We wanted to watch "Cheaper By The Dozen 2", but bad seats. Same goes for "Fun with Dick and Jane". In the end, we bought tix for "Fearless".

Now, most of you know that I seldom watch Chinese movies and I don't know when's the last time I watch a Chinese movie from Hong Kong/China/Taiwan in the cinema. And I'm not a big fan of kung fu and whatever martial arts (and yes that means I don't like Jackie Chan). But oh my God "Fearless" is good!!! It's even better than "Memoirs of a Geisha" to me.

And I really felt that the plot was good. The movie isn't about the fighting. It's about the plot. The story of this guy called Huo Yuanjia and his life. You learn a lot of good lessons and values. Really amazing. I cried leh! Hahahah cos the last part of the movie... tak boleh tahan!!! It's like.. he still continued to fight his last match despite being poisoned by somebody. He kinda had a four-against-one match with 4 people from different countries.

It's really touching. And after this movie, I just feel so proud to be Chinese!!! Despite whatever that China has gone through, you can see that people are still willing to fight for their own rights and are still proud to be who they are. I mean he could beat up this super muscular wrestler from US in that movie! Wah lau... and he's just damn nice. He could have killed some of his opponents. But he didn't. That's real pride and integrity... whatever! It's just good lah!!!!

Went back home, feeling so tired from all the craziness that just happened.

Fire in da house!!!!

2006-01-29T09:19:00.000+08:00

We know that we've seen so many videos and clips on fire and the dos and don'ts of it. We also know that such a thing is real, but deep in our hearts... we kinda know that it will never happen to us. Or you thought so.

I was having a great sleep, when suddenly my mother shouted, "Hurry up! Hurry up!". I know that it was the year of the Dog and that it is the 1st day of Chinese New Year, but why is she so 'kan cheong' (nervous) about it? Then suddenly, an unfamiliar manly voice shouted, "Everyone hurry up!". And from my half sleepy eyes a man in blue uniform. Oh my God WHAT THE HELL IS A POLICEMAN DOING IN MY HOUSE!??!?!

Then I realised that something is wrong. I can't remember if I heard it... or I felt it... or I knew it... but there was a FIRE!!!!! ARGH!!!!!!!!!!! This is like some drama coming alive!!! I ran out of the house and did all the wrong things:

Took my teddy bear down
Had 'time' to ask my father to unplug my handphone from the plug, cos I was charging it.

Super 'salah', but yeah, I did it. Anyway I took the nearest sandals and ran down the stairs. I was freaking worried. So many questions, so little time. Out of the main door, I saw my maid, uncle and grandmother across the road. I ran to my grandmother and asked her if she's okay. Was really really worried and relieved that everyone in my family is okay.

While the fireman and police were frantically taking care of the area, onlookers just stood watching the fire coming on and off. The fire was actually in a building near my house. This building, called Eng Wah, used to be some movie studio or something like that. And I think the old films were stuck inside. Guess one of it caught fire.

Here are some pictures of the scene:

That's how big the fire was!

Part of my family at the scene

Look at the amount of smoke!!!!

It was so big, 2 fire engines were needed!!!

The onlookers of the scene

My younger brother and I at the scene. We are so tired. And yes this is me with my teddy bear!!!! He was so scared!

After what seemed to be like forever, the police let us return to our nests... oops I mean our homes. It was truly an experience.

High Hopes for Mariah!!!

2006-01-27T21:44:00.000+08:00

Hey hey! Like it or not, MARIAH IS HERE TO STAY!!!!! Check this ratings from a VH1 Grammy poll by adult respondents:

Album of the Year Rankings
1. "The Emancipation Of Mimi" Mariah Carey - 26%
2. "Late Registration" Kanye West - 20%
3. "How To Dismantle An Atomic Bomb" U2 - 17%
4. "Love. Angel. Music. Baby." Gwen Stefani - 12%
5. "Chaos And Creation In The Backyard" Paul McCartney - 10%

Record of the Year Rankings
1. "We Belong Together" Mariah Carey - 26%
1. "Boulevard Of Broken Dreams" Green Day - 26%
2. "Gold Digger" Kanye West - 20%
3. "Hollaback Girl" Gwen Stefani - 13%
4. "Feel Good Inc." Gorillaz Featuring De La Soul - 3%

Song of the Year Rankings
1. "We Belong Together" Mariah Carey - 33%
2. "Bless The Broken Road" Rascal Flatts - 21%
3. "Sometimes You Can't Make It On Your Own" U2 - 19%
4. "Devils & Dust" Bruce Springsteen - 9%
5. "Ordinary People" John Legend - 5%

Singing Lessons from Best Female Pop Vocal Performance - Nominees Rankings
1. Mariah Carey - 32%
2. Sheryl Crow - 23%
3. Kelly Clarkson - 16%
4. Gwen Stefani - 11%
5. Bonnie Raitt - 10%

(source from News section of Mariah Carey Official Website)

Gambatte, Mariah!!!!!!!!! WE BELONG TOGETHER!!!!!!!!

Sick Sick Sick

2006-01-27T20:34:00.000+08:00

I was just on my way to camp (as usual) on a Monday morning and just as I alighted from the bus, my stomach felt very very queasy. It was a pretty weird feeling that I was getting. When I went to camp, I had to rush to the toilet. Diarrhoea! I reported sick in camp at the MO. They gave me some medicine. Didn't help me. After lunch, I went to the toilet like 5 times in 3 hours!!!! And it felt worst. It was so bad, I didn't have enough energy for anything!

To make things worse, I had a practical test on that day. If you were gonna guess that I would fail the test, well... I did. I had to redo it the next day. I felt horrible. I failed because I... argh I'm not interested in the damn stuff that they are teaching me now in the 1st place anyway! It's fuur-eeek-king boring and stupid!!!!

Anyway I was so sick I took a cab back home, went to a private doctor to get medicine and a jab that made me sleep till the next morning. It was a good sleep, I suppose. I felt a little bit better and I went back to camp. I couldn't eat much stuff cos it was against what I was supposed to be eating. *Bleah* pass my other practical test and the test that I failed.

Wednesday and Thursday was fine. I was on the road to recovery and I was supposed to be better by Friday. But on Thursday, it seem like my stomach was acting very weird again. I think I had constipation. Then later in the night, it came back. Was sick again. Couldn't go back to camp. Went to yet another doctor. Ai yo....

I hope I'll be well soon...

Not the best of moods...

2006-01-17T22:44:00.000+08:00

Yeah I'm like so freaking pissed and fed up and sad at the same time. Okay, went back to camp today because I reported sick yesterday. Went to the polyclinic yesterday. And guess what? I got a freaking scolding for reporting sick outside. This instructor, A (undisclosed name), told me off for reporting sick. He told me to check the schedule next time before reporting sick. He even said that I 'don't even bother to ask about the lesson yesterday'.

Never mind. I had to go for a quick revision on yesterday's lesson (thank you Azmi!). And the lesson started after that. It was more of a quick revision. And he started asking me questions that I don't know and I don't have the answer to it. I felt so embarrassed because he started shouting at me and making me feel so 'lousy'. I couldn't eat properly, talk properly or even look at people properly (maybe that's an exaggeration).

Okay... 1st thing 1st... is there a schedule for reporting sick? 2ndly, I did ask my buddy beforehand about the lesson and he told me that it was not easy to explain it through the phone. How can he assume that I was not bothered in the 1st place? And he taught us in an extremely confusing way, so I think I got confused myself! And I'm just so... stressed.

The fact that everyone in class seem to be better than me... the fact that my buddy is coping well (it's not a bad thing.. it's good and I'm happy for him).. the fact that I'm not interested in technical stuff, or army life to begin with... doesn't help the situation. I'm so down. But I did try to lift myself up. Talked to Vanitha (chi fan le ma?), Jem and a few others on the Net.

One thing that I need to remind myself. Not to give up. I'm trying not to. studying like mad, reading, revising. Ai yo. If only I was in TP... life was so much better then...

Anyway I need to go and iron my uniforms and stuff. Gotta catch up with my sleep. See ya all!

Simply Fàn-tastic!!!

2006-01-14T23:40:00.000+08:00

Hey everyone!!! It's a bright lovely Saturday! So what activities has Mr. Blonde arranged for himself? Well... I would be out the whole day, but it's not *THAT* busy lah. Hahaha! Okay today woke up around 7am+, hanged around at home and left the house for school (of course I showered and everything!). Now, you must be wondering why I'm going back to TP all of a sudden? Well, because of CAREER FAIR! Hahahaha I went back to my beloved Temasek Polytechnic for the Career Fair. There were a few talks that I was gonna attend, so I came down.

Went to the bus stop and, yes, bus 23 never fails to be late. Hahaha, so I was just a little bit late, but thankfully the talk haven't started yet. When I reached school, I climbed up the flight of stairs and suddenly all the great wonderful memories started following. I don't know why, but I felt so good. There was some kind of an estastic feeling about coming back to TP! I know it's sounds crazy to at least 99.99999% of you people reading this, but I really felt so good! And happy!!!

Okay enough nonsense! Hahaha anyway I entered the auditorium area (where my registration for my course, graduation etc were held) and registered on the spot (I think there were problems online or something). I went for 3 talks and in between those talks, I went to various booths to check out the job prospects that they are offering. Okay here's the rundown of the booths and the talks:

[talks]

CAAS: The Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore, the people behind THE airport, came down and talked about Air Traffic Controllers. Highly paid, they are the people who control the aeroplanes coming in and flying out of the airports. They control the air traffic movement in the skies too! It sounds interesting but tough too. The pay is good, but you work like shift work. That's not the problem. They have very high requirements, like you must be decisive, be a good team player, speak fluent English, have un-shaky voice etc. Plus it's shift work, so you gotta work at funny hours (well, that's not a prob) and be prepared for standby, meaning you have to replace someone, should that person fall sick or whatever (okay that might be a prob!).

SIA: Great way to fly indeed! Not only did their video presentation show the 'glam' side of cabin crew, they also showed the real side of it, like what training they had to go through, the things that happen behind the curtains (yeah when you are walking to the lavatory... that curtain), the sleeping pattern etc. Actually I found it quite scary! Hahahha! I mean... there's standby (again!) duties and you might get dry skin, bad hair and some other funny sickness on board. Plus you have to be able to uphold the name of Singapore Airlines. It's tough, but don't mind giving it a shot (even though my height is kinda like the factor that would make them turn me down). Yeah.... plus get to travel far!!! Why not?!?!

DFS: The speaker was well-mannered and professional in her speech. However, she came to most of us as some 'Ice Queen b****' cos she was 'cold' and a little 'plastic' in a way. Okay on with the job, there were many opportunities for us in DFS. The only problem is... there's too many. And we don't even know where to start! All I know is that you can broaden your mind by meeting people of different cultures and going to different places and departments. Ahh! Too confusing man!!!!

[booths]

Well... there were many booths. From McDonald's to Raffles Hotel, I was able to find quite a variety of companies. Most of them wanted to recruit people, but unfortunately, my talents have to be wasted for another... 1 year 9 months? Yeah... sorry guys! Wait for my emancipation later... hahha!

Some of the 'interesting' booths include Mini Toons, PastaMania and Starhub. Up to now, I'm still wondering what a diploma holder can do in Mini Toons? It's not that we are trying to search for 'high class jobs' or whatever... it's just that, we ain't sure if we can fully expand our minds and talents with a place like that. It's a tough world, man...

During the breaks that I had in between and stuff, I managed to take pics of my school:
My Lovely TP! Come down now!!!

The Flags of TP (including the National Flag)

The new ITAS Canteen! It's air-conditioned. Unfortunately, it was closed, so can't go in. But anyway managed to take a pic of it.

The other side of the canteen.

Seriously, who in the world would bring their pets to the school??? Unless they are taking a Diploma in Dog and Cat Shows, I don't see why!!! (found at entrance of canteen)

The koi pond in my school...

My school in a different angle.

Anyway after all of that, I head off to Tampines Mall, one of the hangouts that I would go to sometimes after school (or before). Still as busy as ever loh! It's like the next Orchard Road. Did you know that the McDonald's in Tampines is the busiest in Singapore? Unbelievable right? Tell me about it. Talking about that I DID go to McDonald's for my lunch! Hahaha. And I had Fàntastic Burger!!! Cool, huh? It's the latest burger to hit our lovely island! It comes in 2 flavours: beef and chicken. Obviously, since I love beef, I tried the beef burger:

Chi fan le ma?? Hahahah!!!

Well the burger actually tasted good! It does taste like the one at Mos Burger, except that maybe it's oiler, so I wonder how healthy the whole thing actually is. It's worth the try! Fàn-tastic! I'll try the chicken one next!

I walked around Tampines Mall and Century Square. Busy, busy, busy! Everyone seem to be rushing somewhere. I found a Converse bag that I like. Quite small, but I don't care I LIKE IT! Hahhahaa! I went into a lot of shops (and of course I didn't buy anything). Just window-shopping, as usual.

At Century Square, I chanced upon Discovery Studios, a studio that kinda allows you to make your own CD at a reasonable (supposedly) price. They have many packages; some with 1 song, some with a few songs, some with makeover etc. I would love to give it a shot, but not sure. I mean S$38 for a CD with 1 song? And what song will that be? I also don't know...

After nearly 3-4 hours of walking everywhere (including a stop at Wang Jiao to read all the brochures that I got from the fair), I made my way to Pasir Ris MRT Station to meet Billy. Billy was punctual. Really punctual. Then I found out that he actually came earlier than me by 1/2h!!! That's crazy!!! Hahaa! But at least you wouldn't be late. We walked to DownTown East for Jim's, my OETI buddy, birthday.

He has *SO* many friends!!! hahahaah they were literally everywhere! He invited quite a no. of people, including his friends from some Chinese Orchestra group that he's in, his secondary school teachers (oh my God) and some various here and there. If not for stupid training, his BMT friends would have been here too!!! Ai yo!

Despite not talking to him much during the party, I got to talk to Colin, another guy from OETI and Billy (although Billy left early for another party). Yea it was quite nice. Didn't know that Jim is the middle child (same as me). His family is so... homely! Hahhaha! I don't know. After hanging around for a while and taking photos and cutting (and munching on) the cake, Colin and I left for home.

My buddy, Jim (Zhong Xiao) acting silly!

(from left): Billy, Jim, Colin and I

The lovely birthday cake, Quite nice leh!

My buddy and I. It's a funny pose, don't ya think?

Billy and I when we arrived earlier in the evening.

What a day man! Hahahaha if only I can have days like that every day! Oh no! The week ahead is packed with stuff!!!! Tests, another birthday party, work, movie... oh my God! But wait, Sunday is just tomorrow!!! Yeah!!! Hahahah! Need to sleep and think about it tomorrow!!!

Surprise Early Dismissal & Mini Shopping Trip!

2006-01-13T20:11:00.000+08:00

Another regimental day starts again; wake up at 5.30am, leave the house at 6.20am, reach camp etc... it's yet another boring day at OETI. Well, I mean, life isn't exactly boring there, but I guess learning something that you are *SO* not interested in makes you feel so bored. I mean, who the hell wants to learn about the different parts of an engine of a land rover!??!! Do I seriously need to know them! Crap!

Today was different, though. 1st thing, my instructors were not to be found. While the group that was doing the man truck (think of a big truck that can hold lotsa stuff) started their lesson, my group members and I were there waiting for the instructor-in-charge to come. In fact, we didn't know who was supposed to be in charge, so one of our other instructors, who was supposed to do another group in another platoon helped us. And yes this shows how efficient SAF is, once again.

We were supposed to take the engine out, so we were re-learning the parts of the engine and the systems before the removal. Because today's Friday and the Muslims have to go for their prayers and we were extremely behind time, he rushed the lesson a little, so it was... confusing.

Anyway, the funny [and good] part was after lunch. I came back, only to find out that we were given 'flexi' (in my camp, that means early dismissal due to the finishing of lesson at early timing, supposedly), but we had to do area cleaning and take out the engine, which is like crazy!!! We rushed through everything and we managed to be dismissed early!! Woo hoo!!!!!!! :) and the funny thing is... although I was supposed to be part of the 'removing-the-engine' team, I ended up cleaning the toilets due to confusion and, thus didn't get to remove the engine today! Hahahaha :P

Anyway I went to IKEA and look around for a birthday gift for my buddy. It's a funny place to be getting a gift, but I was so close to getting a shoe rack (hahahah) cos I know that he liked it, but after much thought, I thought it was ridiculous to get a shoe rack that is big, plain and plastered all over the newspaper (hint: price on the papers...), so in the end, I just left after looking around for like 1.5 hours.

I took a bus to lovely Orchard Road with a freaking heavy bag (try to imagine a pair of boots, 1 set of uniform, 1 set of technician coverall, 1 pair of shorts, socks, books, notebooks, pen and others in a small sports tube bag) and stop over at my favourite store... HMV!!! This month, there's a clearout on many stuff, like CDs, calendars, DVDs, books etc. But, I'm beginnning to wonder if the clearout sale is *REALLY* a clearout...

Wah lau!!!! Kylie Minogue at S$4.95!!??!?! Who don't want!??!?!

What's a clearout if the CD is just $2 off the actual price of the CD?!??!!

Seriously, who would wanna see Britney and Kevin for that price? they must be out of their mind.

Notice that the 'import' sticker cost S$9. Kinda ridiculous to have 2 different prices.

Well, that's their definition of a clearout sale. Anyway I bought a 2006 calendar for S$3.95 :D cool right? "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory" somemore! So cute!! I browsed around Heeren and found something for my buddy finally (cannot tell you yet...). Then I went back home, realising that it's so sunny today and that if I don't take the opportunity to swim, I might never get a chance again. I mean, it's been raining like forever!!!

Long day tomorrow... I'm going back to TP for some talk, then I'm going for a birthday party tomorrow evening. Yes... till then, this is Ron Tan - OUT!

P.S. Stick to Curry when you buy Old Chang Kee curry puffs. The Pepper ones are small and not really worth your dollar.

Welcome!!!

2006-01-12T20:54:00.000+08:00

Hello everyone!!! Thanks for popping by my blog! I guess the previous 'music critic' blog was ineffective and not feasible, so I've blasted it off (BOOM) and here's presenting (drums roll....) .....

That's So Ron!!!!

Ahahahha it's my blog, so it's about my life, the happenings around me, my thoughts on current affairs etc. It's everything you *can* imagine (well, maybe...) Hahahah! I'll update you with my crazy thoughts, my fitching, complaints and whatever else you can think of!

Oh wait... the 1st entry is coming up soon.... see ya!!!!