DOING
This afternoon, we had a fruitful group meeting in one of the discussion rooms in UiD, where we swiftly and efficiently settled the committee groupings (Finance/Sponsorship Team, Liaison Team, Lesson/Event Team, Media and PR Team). CW and I have all along been the Comm. Reps, and our main role is to liaise between our team and our tutor. Someone then nominated that the Comm. Reps might as well double-up as the Team co-leaders. Since we're already liaising with the tutor, might as well expand our area and liaise and oversee the different individual committees, and the team, as a whole. Everybody applauded gladly and warmly at that suggestion.
Sabotaged.
Directing a group of 20 adults - most of whom are older than me - will most definitely not be a walk in the park. Don't get me wrong, they're all good people; with good brains and good personality and good ideas and with good social and interpersonal skills. But, as the proverb goes, too many cooks make the broth bad. Admittedly, a small part of me wonders if I'm competent enough to co-lead such a big team to undertake such a big project. A great deal of wisdom would be needed, definitely. Especially when our main project idea is relatively new, has still yet to be finalized, and has a couple of possible, potential big hurdles to overcome.
It wouldn't be easy. It will most definitely be busy.
Anyway, guitar practice tomorrow, and guitar "test" on Monday!
And 6 of us from the team will be meeting a representative from an organization - which we might be working together with - on this coming Thursday.
And I've got to wake up in just a few hours' time at 7am to churn out a card before heading out to Expo for guitar practice later. The best part is: I've not yet got even the slightest idea on HOW to do the card yet. Not even an inkling! What design. What colour. What pattern. What frame. Nothing. Nil. Zilch. Oh, gosh, I pray for some good inspirations! I've never been the creative, arty-farty type, ya know.
And a couple of school assignments and reports are due in a couple of weeks time. I've not really started on it yet! The reading materials! And what's that with APA-styled referencing? Gosh!
Busy? Busy.
But it feels good.
Challenges are good. If not, a person will just stagnate and remain mediocre. It's always either rising up to the challenges, facing and overcoming them, and learning along the way to be better as a whole; or avoid and hide from them and stay stagnate, unchanged, mediocre.
Saturday, 31 January 2009
Wednesday, 28 January 2009
BACK TO NATURE
BACK TO NATURE
Went to Bukit Timah Nature Reserve this evening. The weather was terrific and the air, fresh. There's always something magical about Mother Nature; though I could never pinpoint it out exactly for the life of me.
The rainforest feels like a treasure box, with loads of secrets untold and plenty of precious things to offer. The life, the buzz, the mystery, oh! It seems like it would happily dish out anything and everything that it has to offer, if only someone would just sit by quietly and reverently, and listen and observe.
The rainforest seems massive enough to easily engulf one in, but yet, big enough to offer protection. At the same time, it feels like trespassing on foreign territories and threading on forbidden grounds; disturbing the otherwise tranquil world of the rightful inhabitants.
The highlight of the day is that we caught sight of a big forest monitor lizard. It was stealthily climbing down the slope when it's cover was blown. It looks cute but grotesque. After waiting for a couple of minutes in hushed silence, the forest monitor lizard finally landed on the soil pavement; just a mere meter from us. I nearly had a myocardial infarction and died right there and then.
We continued exploring the forest, with a couple of cheeky little monkeys swinging overhead. The vast diversity of plants is simply overwhelming! The feeling of being near to nature is awesome; something different from the usual "concrete jungle" of modern, urban living. The sounds of birds and animals and insects and crickets. The sounds of dried fallen leaves crushing crisply under the sole of our shoes. The air was humid, but yet strangely cooling at the same time. The sun shone down sporadically once in a while, and parts of the forest dimly lit up; with the majority of the sunlight being shaded by the canopy. Beautiful.
Went to Bukit Timah Nature Reserve this evening. The weather was terrific and the air, fresh. There's always something magical about Mother Nature; though I could never pinpoint it out exactly for the life of me.
The rainforest feels like a treasure box, with loads of secrets untold and plenty of precious things to offer. The life, the buzz, the mystery, oh! It seems like it would happily dish out anything and everything that it has to offer, if only someone would just sit by quietly and reverently, and listen and observe.
The rainforest seems massive enough to easily engulf one in, but yet, big enough to offer protection. At the same time, it feels like trespassing on foreign territories and threading on forbidden grounds; disturbing the otherwise tranquil world of the rightful inhabitants.
The highlight of the day is that we caught sight of a big forest monitor lizard. It was stealthily climbing down the slope when it's cover was blown. It looks cute but grotesque. After waiting for a couple of minutes in hushed silence, the forest monitor lizard finally landed on the soil pavement; just a mere meter from us. I nearly had a myocardial infarction and died right there and then.
We continued exploring the forest, with a couple of cheeky little monkeys swinging overhead. The vast diversity of plants is simply overwhelming! The feeling of being near to nature is awesome; something different from the usual "concrete jungle" of modern, urban living. The sounds of birds and animals and insects and crickets. The sounds of dried fallen leaves crushing crisply under the sole of our shoes. The air was humid, but yet strangely cooling at the same time. The sun shone down sporadically once in a while, and parts of the forest dimly lit up; with the majority of the sunlight being shaded by the canopy. Beautiful.
Monday, 26 January 2009
SHOWING LOVE THE WRONG WAY
SHOWING LOVE THE WRONG WAY
Hours before, we were watching CJ7 on AXN channel in the living room. Halfway through, the sound of Grace whimpering could be heard. There's this thing about babies. Many scientists have researched that parents are able to detect and pick up the tones of their baby's cries. Just by the sound of the crying, the parents are able to differentiate whether their baby is hungry, seeking for attention, or experiencing pain or discomfort.
Similarly, after having been handling Grace for quite a while, I recognize that particular whimpering. It was a cry of struggle; a call for help. She was whimpering helplessly and frustratedly. Something was causing her distress. Turning my head around, it was easy to pinpoint the culprit. Serene was trying to stuff the pacifier of a milk bottle into Grace's mouth.
Of course, Serene's intention was kind. There's this ambiguous thing about Serene. Sometimes, she bullies her younger sister (read: kick, push, shove) and simply refuses to share anything with her. Occassionally though, she'll personally feed Grace mouthfuls of food off her own plate, or help her younger sister with her shoes.
Now, Serene was shoving the milk bottle into Grace's mouth. Nothing bad, honestly. She was trying to get her younger sister to finish her milk. But then, even I myself would resist violently if someone were to forcefully stuff a spoon into my mouth. And I've always known my Grace to be a rather independent girl; she likes to do things herself (though she always make a royal mess out of it).
"Serene, no, don't do that. Stop. Stop it. You'll hurt your sister." I ordered in Chinese. Most kids know not to be gentle. They just play rough. In addition, Serene is already 4, while Grace is currently only 18-months-old. All it takes is just a reckless shove or a careless push, and things could potentially turn disastrous.
At that moment, Grace somehow managed to break free and ran past her sister. She dashed towards me, and buried her face in the curve of my right neck. She pressed her face against my collarbone in a desperate bid to hide from the source of provocation. Serene dashed forward as well, blindly determined in her love pursuit to get her sister to finish her milk. This is a rare moment of sisterly love. But shown in the wrong way.
I lifted Grace up and seated her comfortably on the groove of my laps (I was sitting cross-legged on the floor). She was still helplessly burying her face in my bosom. Instinctively, I raised my right arm and lifted up my right shoulder blade, creating a solid "boundary" between the 2 sisters.
"Serene. No. Don't. Wait, wait. Stop." She stopped in her track. Well, how could she not? If she had continued running forward, she would run into my back.
"The milk bottle." I continued in Chinese, "Give it to me."
She obediently did as instructed.
"Xie xie. Good girl. Guai."
I looked down at Grace. She was no longer burying her face, but she was still obviously shakened. Resting her head sideways on my chest, she was peeking cautiously and timidly like a threatened mice.
"Grace. Milk, milk. You want? Milk?" I waved the bottle in front of her face.
She took it. And lifted it to her mouth and continued drinking.
The silly girls.
Hours before, we were watching CJ7 on AXN channel in the living room. Halfway through, the sound of Grace whimpering could be heard. There's this thing about babies. Many scientists have researched that parents are able to detect and pick up the tones of their baby's cries. Just by the sound of the crying, the parents are able to differentiate whether their baby is hungry, seeking for attention, or experiencing pain or discomfort.
Similarly, after having been handling Grace for quite a while, I recognize that particular whimpering. It was a cry of struggle; a call for help. She was whimpering helplessly and frustratedly. Something was causing her distress. Turning my head around, it was easy to pinpoint the culprit. Serene was trying to stuff the pacifier of a milk bottle into Grace's mouth.
Of course, Serene's intention was kind. There's this ambiguous thing about Serene. Sometimes, she bullies her younger sister (read: kick, push, shove) and simply refuses to share anything with her. Occassionally though, she'll personally feed Grace mouthfuls of food off her own plate, or help her younger sister with her shoes.
Now, Serene was shoving the milk bottle into Grace's mouth. Nothing bad, honestly. She was trying to get her younger sister to finish her milk. But then, even I myself would resist violently if someone were to forcefully stuff a spoon into my mouth. And I've always known my Grace to be a rather independent girl; she likes to do things herself (though she always make a royal mess out of it).
"Serene, no, don't do that. Stop. Stop it. You'll hurt your sister." I ordered in Chinese. Most kids know not to be gentle. They just play rough. In addition, Serene is already 4, while Grace is currently only 18-months-old. All it takes is just a reckless shove or a careless push, and things could potentially turn disastrous.
At that moment, Grace somehow managed to break free and ran past her sister. She dashed towards me, and buried her face in the curve of my right neck. She pressed her face against my collarbone in a desperate bid to hide from the source of provocation. Serene dashed forward as well, blindly determined in her love pursuit to get her sister to finish her milk. This is a rare moment of sisterly love. But shown in the wrong way.
I lifted Grace up and seated her comfortably on the groove of my laps (I was sitting cross-legged on the floor). She was still helplessly burying her face in my bosom. Instinctively, I raised my right arm and lifted up my right shoulder blade, creating a solid "boundary" between the 2 sisters.
"Serene. No. Don't. Wait, wait. Stop." She stopped in her track. Well, how could she not? If she had continued running forward, she would run into my back.
"The milk bottle." I continued in Chinese, "Give it to me."
She obediently did as instructed.
"Xie xie. Good girl. Guai."
I looked down at Grace. She was no longer burying her face, but she was still obviously shakened. Resting her head sideways on my chest, she was peeking cautiously and timidly like a threatened mice.
"Grace. Milk, milk. You want? Milk?" I waved the bottle in front of her face.
She took it. And lifted it to her mouth and continued drinking.
The silly girls.
Sunday, 25 January 2009
THE GOOD AND THE BAD
THE GOOD AND THE BAD
Because he lost his balance, this stranger kicked my baby on the train to Changi Airport last night. A VERY hard kick with a resounding "GONG"! Horrified and embarrassed, he frantically apologized profusely, to which I smiled and acknowledged. BUT!!! To be honest, for the moment, MY HEART!!! Oh! My poor baby is BARELY 3weeks old, you know!
I went home later and crooned sorrowfully to it that night. Poor baby.
My flu condition is deteriorating. It feels like the nose is dropping off soon. And now I'm coughing slightly too.
On the bright side, the daily consumption of coffee is now down to a maximum of 2 cups! I'm awesome, ain't I? The thing of importance now is to maintain and keep this up, before going further and reducing it to a cup per day. Woot!
In addition, the semi-liquid diarrhea has now finally somewhat solidified. It feels good! Woot!
Because he lost his balance, this stranger kicked my baby on the train to Changi Airport last night. A VERY hard kick with a resounding "GONG"! Horrified and embarrassed, he frantically apologized profusely, to which I smiled and acknowledged. BUT!!! To be honest, for the moment, MY HEART!!! Oh! My poor baby is BARELY 3weeks old, you know!
I went home later and crooned sorrowfully to it that night. Poor baby.
My flu condition is deteriorating. It feels like the nose is dropping off soon. And now I'm coughing slightly too.
On the bright side, the daily consumption of coffee is now down to a maximum of 2 cups! I'm awesome, ain't I? The thing of importance now is to maintain and keep this up, before going further and reducing it to a cup per day. Woot!
In addition, the semi-liquid diarrhea has now finally somewhat solidified. It feels good! Woot!
Friday, 23 January 2009
AH-CHOO!
AH-CHOO!
How odd it is; to be always down with flu exactly on the very day of (supposedly) exercising in the gym. Totally crashes the plan.
And I'm having slight diarrhea. Don't ask what exactly I ate that's causing it. I've totally no idea.
How odd it is; to be always down with flu exactly on the very day of (supposedly) exercising in the gym. Totally crashes the plan.
And I'm having slight diarrhea. Don't ask what exactly I ate that's causing it. I've totally no idea.
Thursday, 22 January 2009
DAYS
DAYS
WEDNESDAY
Lessons till 6.30pm
7.30pm - 10pm: Guit "mock" test. Hohoho. Scared the banana out of us.
THURSDAY
8am: Woke up for lessons.
Lessons till 12.30pm
1.30pm - 2.15pm: Meet up with YH
3pm - 4.30pm: Lunch at Sakae with the younger brother. Finally satisfied that craving!
6.00pm: Short nap! (I'm logging off to sleep soon!)
FRIDAY (tomorrow!)
6am: Wake up
8.30am - 10.30am: ICT Lesson
10.30am - 2.00pm: Rendezvous with Jim
2.30pm - 4.30pm: GESL Group getting-to-know-each-other session
4.30pm - 5.30pm: GESL meeting with the tutor
5.30pm - 7.30pm: GESL mass briefing
Busy? Busy.
But satisfying.
WEDNESDAY
Lessons till 6.30pm
7.30pm - 10pm: Guit "mock" test. Hohoho. Scared the banana out of us.
THURSDAY
8am: Woke up for lessons.
Lessons till 12.30pm
1.30pm - 2.15pm: Meet up with YH
3pm - 4.30pm: Lunch at Sakae with the younger brother. Finally satisfied that craving!
6.00pm: Short nap! (I'm logging off to sleep soon!)
FRIDAY (tomorrow!)
6am: Wake up
8.30am - 10.30am: ICT Lesson
10.30am - 2.00pm: Rendezvous with Jim
2.30pm - 4.30pm: GESL Group getting-to-know-each-other session
4.30pm - 5.30pm: GESL meeting with the tutor
5.30pm - 7.30pm: GESL mass briefing
Busy? Busy.
But satisfying.
Tuesday, 20 January 2009
DIGGING A HOLE
DIGGING A HOLE
There are so many things clamouring and demanding for attention. Grrr!
Suddenly, the emails received per day increases by as much as 10-fold (Gasps! Imagine that!); all of which are academically-related (yes, not spam mail). Updating this communication network site, checking that Portal site. Collecting and compiling of documents. Networking with this, liaising with that. Brainstorming. Reading up on this, searching up on that. Replying emails. Keeping up with plenty of email loops. Exchanges of SMSes (for goodness sake, please just give me a ring. Well, not literally; though I seriously won't mind. One that's of white gold, please?). More emails. More SMSes. E-learning. Checking for new documents. Printing documents. Check email. E-learning. Read SMS. Check email. Reply SMS. E-learning.
I shudder each time I see new, unread emails. I sigh whenever the mobile phone vibrates with incoming SMS (for goodness sake, please just press the "dial" button). But then again, I am also tempted to ignore whenever I hear the ringtone ringing. In short? I want a hole in which I can burrow into. Away from the evil clutches of technology; far from the reaches of emails, SMSes, and phone calls. As elusive as the Phantom who lurks the opera house. Now you know where to find me if - and when - you need me. A hole, I mean. Not an opera house or Victoria Concert Hall.
I'll faint if the handphone goes "Chirp chirp! Fei ge chuan shu!" again for the night. Shhh! Be silent!
Thank goodness I still managed to find time to blog. Hohoho!
Guitar tomorrow! GASPS!
Despite yakking so much, I actually kind of enjoy it. Being busy. Feeling alive. Feeling useful. The things to do. The occupied mind. The buzz. The life. It keeps one from getting cranky and rusty.
__________________________________________________________
Time for bed! As one advances in age, it is prudent not to neglect leading a healthy lifestyle and maintaining a social life.
Sleep earlier.
Eat healthier.
Cut down on coffee (3 cups per day just doesn't sound health-friendly)
And... Gyming on Friday!
That's life. It should never be a bore; or a chore. Life is all that you make it out to be.
Woot!
There are so many things clamouring and demanding for attention. Grrr!
Suddenly, the emails received per day increases by as much as 10-fold (Gasps! Imagine that!); all of which are academically-related (yes, not spam mail). Updating this communication network site, checking that Portal site. Collecting and compiling of documents. Networking with this, liaising with that. Brainstorming. Reading up on this, searching up on that. Replying emails. Keeping up with plenty of email loops. Exchanges of SMSes (for goodness sake, please just give me a ring. Well, not literally; though I seriously won't mind. One that's of white gold, please?). More emails. More SMSes. E-learning. Checking for new documents. Printing documents. Check email. E-learning. Read SMS. Check email. Reply SMS. E-learning.
I shudder each time I see new, unread emails. I sigh whenever the mobile phone vibrates with incoming SMS (for goodness sake, please just press the "dial" button). But then again, I am also tempted to ignore whenever I hear the ringtone ringing. In short? I want a hole in which I can burrow into. Away from the evil clutches of technology; far from the reaches of emails, SMSes, and phone calls. As elusive as the Phantom who lurks the opera house. Now you know where to find me if - and when - you need me. A hole, I mean. Not an opera house or Victoria Concert Hall.
I'll faint if the handphone goes "Chirp chirp! Fei ge chuan shu!" again for the night. Shhh! Be silent!
Thank goodness I still managed to find time to blog. Hohoho!
Guitar tomorrow! GASPS!
Despite yakking so much, I actually kind of enjoy it. Being busy. Feeling alive. Feeling useful. The things to do. The occupied mind. The buzz. The life. It keeps one from getting cranky and rusty.
__________________________________________________________
Time for bed! As one advances in age, it is prudent not to neglect leading a healthy lifestyle and maintaining a social life.
Sleep earlier.
Eat healthier.
Cut down on coffee (3 cups per day just doesn't sound health-friendly)
And... Gyming on Friday!
That's life. It should never be a bore; or a chore. Life is all that you make it out to be.
Woot!
QUICKIE
QUICKIE
Serene is down with Hand Mouth Foot.
Last night, I dreamt that someone was savagely trying to kill me. Chasing after me. Out for my blood. It started at being in a hospital. She chased. I ran. Flew down the flight of stairs. Somehow, the hospital in my dream suddenly changed into a HDB building. I was at the 10th storey. Climbed down 7. Thinking that descending all the way to the ground floor is typical and stupid, I thus stopped at the 3rd storey. Crouched outside a random HDB apartment, hoping that my predator would fall for the trick. This is taking a risk. If the decoy is unsuccessful, then I'm as well as dead. Cornered like a defendless cat (don't ask why didn't I seek passerbys for help. In the dream, there was just the predator and the prey). The trepidation of the unknown is unnerving. I was in cold sweat. The silence was mockingly eerie as well. That's when the dream ended. Dang.
Serene is down with Hand Mouth Foot.
Last night, I dreamt that someone was savagely trying to kill me. Chasing after me. Out for my blood. It started at being in a hospital. She chased. I ran. Flew down the flight of stairs. Somehow, the hospital in my dream suddenly changed into a HDB building. I was at the 10th storey. Climbed down 7. Thinking that descending all the way to the ground floor is typical and stupid, I thus stopped at the 3rd storey. Crouched outside a random HDB apartment, hoping that my predator would fall for the trick. This is taking a risk. If the decoy is unsuccessful, then I'm as well as dead. Cornered like a defendless cat (don't ask why didn't I seek passerbys for help. In the dream, there was just the predator and the prey). The trepidation of the unknown is unnerving. I was in cold sweat. The silence was mockingly eerie as well. That's when the dream ended. Dang.
Monday, 19 January 2009
A GOOD, RELAXING SUNDAY AFTERNOON
A GOOD, RELAXING SUNDAY AFTERNOON
My dear girl is just too cute beyond words. Especially towards the last minute of the video. She kissed me!
She's getting increasingly cheekier!
My dear girl is just too cute beyond words. Especially towards the last minute of the video. She kissed me!
She's getting increasingly cheekier!
ORDINARY
ORDINARY
Take a good look around. Sometimes, it's so easy to stick to the norm. It's the natural tendency.
But just because something has been done in the same old way for the last thousand of years doesn't necessarily mean that it should always remain so.
Ordinary is boringly mediocre.
Ordinary is not having courage enough to try new and unfamiliar things.
Ordinary is not daring to dream big, take a risk and expect for more.
Ordinary is limiting ourselves; our capabilities; our capacity; our creativity; our freedom.
It's always the extraordinary that makes people sit up and take notice. It's precisely because there is something new; thus, changes are brought about.
Don't be stuck in a mould.
Don't be ordinary.
We're alive.
Each of us is unique in our own ways.
Don't follow the crowd; just to fit in.
But don't be an extremist radical either.
Just be yourself. A balanced self.
Most importantly, don't be ashamed to be yourself.
Be comfortable in your own skin.
We're alive.
Be extraordinary.
Take a good look around. Sometimes, it's so easy to stick to the norm. It's the natural tendency.
But just because something has been done in the same old way for the last thousand of years doesn't necessarily mean that it should always remain so.
Ordinary is boringly mediocre.
Ordinary is not having courage enough to try new and unfamiliar things.
Ordinary is not daring to dream big, take a risk and expect for more.
Ordinary is limiting ourselves; our capabilities; our capacity; our creativity; our freedom.
It's always the extraordinary that makes people sit up and take notice. It's precisely because there is something new; thus, changes are brought about.
Don't be stuck in a mould.
Don't be ordinary.
We're alive.
Each of us is unique in our own ways.
Don't follow the crowd; just to fit in.
But don't be an extremist radical either.
Just be yourself. A balanced self.
Most importantly, don't be ashamed to be yourself.
Be comfortable in your own skin.
We're alive.
Be extraordinary.
Sunday, 18 January 2009
ANIMALS AND HUMAN
ANIMALS AND HUMAN
On Wednesday afternoon, I was attending my first Biology module lecture. The contents were intriguing, and the professor is most certainly fascinating.
As the lesson plan for that week is Ecology, Prof showed us loads of pictures of animals. Interesting pictures. Of animals and reptiles and amphibians and whatnots. Being a biologist by training himself, expertise is certainly not lacking. The pictures are all just so amazingly beautiful. Mother Nature is always pretty.
There were photos of a snake giving birth. Another of a huge monitor lizard (EEEKK!!!). Yet another shows a Gastric Brooding Frog. Yes, with a little froglet peeking out of the mother frog's mouth. Prof shared with us the mode of reproduction of these frogs. It's just so simply amazing. He further shared with us the sacrificial, noble love story of salmons. It's so tragic, but yes, beautiful at the same time.
Suddenly, just sitting there listening to the prof, something unexpectedly just flowed out of my heart. I don't know. Love, maybe? Don't be mistaken; I don't like ALL animals. I still loathe cats as fervently as ever, and am still terrified of lizards as horribly as ever. But, right there and then, for a moment, there was just this unexpected weird gush of feeling. The eyes of my mind conjured up this image of a man scuffling playfully with his big, hairy dog. A picture of laid-back happiness; of swaying trees, green grassland, giant paws, wind-blown hair, easy smiles, and ringing laughter.
I realize, human beings actually have loads of love to give. There is, undeniably, this innate need in humans to love, and be loved. But it's kind of sad, really; because if the picture in my mind is not that of a lovable dog, but a HIV carrier, or a prison inmate, or a youth delinquent, or a blotchy-looking patient inflicted by skin disease, would the man in the picture still laugh as heartily, without giving any thoughts to selfish boundaries?
Admittedly, human love is kind of subjective and conditional. Of course, no one is ever perfect. But still, it is saddening to know that sometimes, people can carry more affection, care, concern, and love for animals than fellow humans. It seems amiss that human can, at times, be more comfortable with - and care more for - animals than they do with their own kind.
On Wednesday afternoon, I was attending my first Biology module lecture. The contents were intriguing, and the professor is most certainly fascinating.
As the lesson plan for that week is Ecology, Prof showed us loads of pictures of animals. Interesting pictures. Of animals and reptiles and amphibians and whatnots. Being a biologist by training himself, expertise is certainly not lacking. The pictures are all just so amazingly beautiful. Mother Nature is always pretty.
There were photos of a snake giving birth. Another of a huge monitor lizard (EEEKK!!!). Yet another shows a Gastric Brooding Frog. Yes, with a little froglet peeking out of the mother frog's mouth. Prof shared with us the mode of reproduction of these frogs. It's just so simply amazing. He further shared with us the sacrificial, noble love story of salmons. It's so tragic, but yes, beautiful at the same time.
Suddenly, just sitting there listening to the prof, something unexpectedly just flowed out of my heart. I don't know. Love, maybe? Don't be mistaken; I don't like ALL animals. I still loathe cats as fervently as ever, and am still terrified of lizards as horribly as ever. But, right there and then, for a moment, there was just this unexpected weird gush of feeling. The eyes of my mind conjured up this image of a man scuffling playfully with his big, hairy dog. A picture of laid-back happiness; of swaying trees, green grassland, giant paws, wind-blown hair, easy smiles, and ringing laughter.
I realize, human beings actually have loads of love to give. There is, undeniably, this innate need in humans to love, and be loved. But it's kind of sad, really; because if the picture in my mind is not that of a lovable dog, but a HIV carrier, or a prison inmate, or a youth delinquent, or a blotchy-looking patient inflicted by skin disease, would the man in the picture still laugh as heartily, without giving any thoughts to selfish boundaries?
Admittedly, human love is kind of subjective and conditional. Of course, no one is ever perfect. But still, it is saddening to know that sometimes, people can carry more affection, care, concern, and love for animals than fellow humans. It seems amiss that human can, at times, be more comfortable with - and care more for - animals than they do with their own kind.
Saturday, 17 January 2009
CHA!
CHA!
Last Friday night, both Grace and I had a short session of sing-a-long.
Anyway, halfway through the singing, she got all curious and tried to take the handphone away. I was flustered, for a moment.
As can be seen, she only knows just ONE word: Cha (tea). The pleasantly surprising thing is: she knows the melody, as well as the proper timing to insert her "Cha!". It seems like she's on cue or something.
She is just so endearing!
Tried to get her to sing along to her favourite "Old MacDonald (Had a Farm)", but she was just too engrossed in molesting my laptop. It's funny; she knows not to touch the family computer, but yet, couldn't seem to keep her hands away from laptops. Perhaps she is just too used and familiar with laptops; since she is allowed to play with her Dad's. But me? Stingy me doesn't even allow her to touch mine; because predictably, a touch will gradually evolve into something more.
She clearly knows that she's forbidden to touch my lappie; albeit she keeps mischieviously toeing the line. Trying her luck, most probably; that playful girl of mine. As can be seen, she touched the lappie, only to immediately pull back her hands and bring them to her chest while scanning my face for any negative response. Of course, she gets increasingly bolder with each attempt; even so much as to turn a deaf ear to the "Nonos". She usually listen well to "Nonos"; but apparently, not this time round.
Then again, perhaps it's partially my fault as well. Half of my mind was preoccupied with the recording video; instead of taking her by the shoulders, looking at her straight in the eyes, and asserting firmly, "Grace, nono.".
Last Friday night, both Grace and I had a short session of sing-a-long.
Anyway, halfway through the singing, she got all curious and tried to take the handphone away. I was flustered, for a moment.
As can be seen, she only knows just ONE word: Cha (tea). The pleasantly surprising thing is: she knows the melody, as well as the proper timing to insert her "Cha!". It seems like she's on cue or something.
She is just so endearing!
Tried to get her to sing along to her favourite "Old MacDonald (Had a Farm)", but she was just too engrossed in molesting my laptop. It's funny; she knows not to touch the family computer, but yet, couldn't seem to keep her hands away from laptops. Perhaps she is just too used and familiar with laptops; since she is allowed to play with her Dad's. But me? Stingy me doesn't even allow her to touch mine; because predictably, a touch will gradually evolve into something more.
She clearly knows that she's forbidden to touch my lappie; albeit she keeps mischieviously toeing the line. Trying her luck, most probably; that playful girl of mine. As can be seen, she touched the lappie, only to immediately pull back her hands and bring them to her chest while scanning my face for any negative response. Of course, she gets increasingly bolder with each attempt; even so much as to turn a deaf ear to the "Nonos". She usually listen well to "Nonos"; but apparently, not this time round.
Then again, perhaps it's partially my fault as well. Half of my mind was preoccupied with the recording video; instead of taking her by the shoulders, looking at her straight in the eyes, and asserting firmly, "Grace, nono.".
Wednesday, 14 January 2009
NEARLY POKED!
NEARLY POKED!
This morning, I popped by JP to check out the prices of some sports apparels before heading down for lesson. After lesson ended at 6.30pm, I met up with Leo for dinner. It was during dinner when he remarked on something which has been truly getting on my nerves.
Within 3 weeks, 4 different persons commented on the same old thing; and it was just only yesterday when I blogged that I'll scream! and poke! the next offending person's eyes. This is so stressful and worrying. This feels kind of prophetic. Suddenly everyone's harping on the same thing; without prior arrangement. Perhaps it's telling of something.
If, by the end of this week, a fifth random friend comes up and comments again on the same old thing, perhaps then, it's due time to take it in a more deserving and heightened seriousness. It's too much of a coincidence to just brush it off.
This morning, I popped by JP to check out the prices of some sports apparels before heading down for lesson. After lesson ended at 6.30pm, I met up with Leo for dinner. It was during dinner when he remarked on something which has been truly getting on my nerves.
Within 3 weeks, 4 different persons commented on the same old thing; and it was just only yesterday when I blogged that I'll scream! and poke! the next offending person's eyes. This is so stressful and worrying. This feels kind of prophetic. Suddenly everyone's harping on the same thing; without prior arrangement. Perhaps it's telling of something.
If, by the end of this week, a fifth random friend comes up and comments again on the same old thing, perhaps then, it's due time to take it in a more deserving and heightened seriousness. It's too much of a coincidence to just brush it off.
POKE!
POKE!
If someone is to even so much as to mention it again, I would scream. Even if it's something vaguely along the line, I might just poke the offending person's eyes. Honestly, already having heard the same old thing from 3 different individuals on 3 separate occasions - within a week - is no joke. AND having to hear it again with a frequency of about once a week for the next consecutive 2 weeks is additionally stressful.
I know I've lost some weight, but It seems like everybody's suddenly nagging spontaneously like a broken recorder. Like, a flu epidemic? One day, everybody's fine and normal. The next day, people start sneezing left, right, and center. It feels strangely... I don't know... Prophetic? Yep, worryingly scary. Freaky, definitely.
Some words just don't co-exist together. It doesn't work this way.
"Good" and "slave", for one. "Too" and "rich", for another. Some words just don't co-exist together. They just don't. It's just too weird. Period.
If someone is to even so much as to mention it again, I would scream. Even if it's something vaguely along the line, I might just poke the offending person's eyes. Honestly, already having heard the same old thing from 3 different individuals on 3 separate occasions - within a week - is no joke. AND having to hear it again with a frequency of about once a week for the next consecutive 2 weeks is additionally stressful.
I know I've lost some weight, but It seems like everybody's suddenly nagging spontaneously like a broken recorder. Like, a flu epidemic? One day, everybody's fine and normal. The next day, people start sneezing left, right, and center. It feels strangely... I don't know... Prophetic? Yep, worryingly scary. Freaky, definitely.
Some words just don't co-exist together. It doesn't work this way.
"Good" and "slave", for one. "Too" and "rich", for another. Some words just don't co-exist together. They just don't. It's just too weird. Period.
Tuesday, 13 January 2009
KILLED
KILLED
I'm going to do something bad. KelT is sooo going to strangle my throat if - I emphasize, if - he comes to know about it. Anyway, I'll blog more about this if there are any good news! That is, if I've not yet gotten skinned alive by then.
_______________________________________________________
Anyway, on Friday, I made a Takamine mine. Today? Levi found a first-time customer in me.
The bad news? Burnt a sizable hole in the pocket. Quite a pronounced dent, no, punch to the typical monthly expenditures. OUCH!
The good news? I'm still - and would be - surviving well. Just need to get past the oh-my-gosh-it's-killing-me heartache, as well as the nagging tendency to cut back on necessities just to "recoup" the loss.
_______________________________________________________
Someone drew this little artistic masterpiece just now!
I was just wondering how come it looks quite vaguely familiar; but for an instant, couldn't place a finger on it.
Can you?
Finally, after much guessing, he finally gave up and revealed in exasperation:
"It's your DISPLAY PIC!"
Now, I know why. Ahhh.
I'm going to do something bad. KelT is sooo going to strangle my throat if - I emphasize, if - he comes to know about it. Anyway, I'll blog more about this if there are any good news! That is, if I've not yet gotten skinned alive by then.
_______________________________________________________
Anyway, on Friday, I made a Takamine mine. Today? Levi found a first-time customer in me.
The bad news? Burnt a sizable hole in the pocket. Quite a pronounced dent, no, punch to the typical monthly expenditures. OUCH!
The good news? I'm still - and would be - surviving well. Just need to get past the oh-my-gosh-it's-killing-me heartache, as well as the nagging tendency to cut back on necessities just to "recoup" the loss.
_______________________________________________________
Someone drew this little artistic masterpiece just now!
I was just wondering how come it looks quite vaguely familiar; but for an instant, couldn't place a finger on it.
Can you?
Finally, after much guessing, he finally gave up and revealed in exasperation:
"It's your DISPLAY PIC!"
Now, I know why. Ahhh.
Saturday, 10 January 2009
FOOD AND STRENGTH
FOOD AND STRENGTH
On Friday night, DH and I were at PH's house baking. And it was at her house where I saw the very bottle of shower gel which I nearly commited suicide with! Tsk! Talk about memories!
Anyway, because there was a 2hours time of refrigeration, we ended up teaching DH some basic guitar strummings. Somehow (though I have no idea how), we gradually "promoted" to the piano that's in the living room. In the end, we had a sort of a skills trading exchange. PH and I taught DH guitar, while DH taught us the piano.
It's quite a weird and daunting feeling playing the piano. The only experience I've had is from the uber-short period in Primary 3; when I joined the school ensemble. Even then, my CCA (known as ECA back then) attendance was terribly miserable. I can't even remember what I learnt! Anyway, back then, I was in the pianica section. Really basic, really. At least, with the pianica, there are only 2 octaves to deal with. And the instrument is small and light; it can be easily placed on the laps and blown through a wind pipe. The piano's totally different.
Anyway, after baking, I lugged home 2kg of chicken drumsticks, 2 1.5L bottles of Coca-Cola, a guitar, and my bag. Assuming the density of water, the bottles of Coke alone weighed 3kg. In total, I lugged 5kg of stuffs home; excluding the guitar and my bag! All of a sudden, I was reminded of The Master. He would have been glad - gleeful, even - to take a dig at this. For once, someone is carrying more bags than Doro! Haha...
ZA came to my abode this morning. He really looks every part a chief. Anyway, the kids were happy to see the new visitor. Serene was so polite; she kept calling him "Kor Kor". Grace was surprisingly friendly, too. The moment she saw him, she smiled. Following which, she "hugged" his legs, and started toying with the hems of his 3quarts pants. Poor ZA looked so paralyzed. He looked as though he dare not move. After being done with laughing, I carried Grace away from him. That's just so funny.
I caught him unaware. He was cooking so earnestly! Can you feel the love?! Hohoho!
Gotcha!
_____________________________________________
Anyway, it's really an indescribable feeling to see things taking shape and tackling things down one by one.
I've received the matriculation card and student Portal account! What a relief!
In addition, I need not take any Content Upgrading Modules for Chemistry! Woot!
AND!!! I am offered a place in Residence Hall 10! Now, accepting it or rejecting it... well... I've not decided yet; and a decision is required urgently. Arrrghhh!
The bad news is, only an hour ago when I got back home, there sits on my desk a letter from CPF. It's a reminder for the upcoming repayments of the CPF Education Scheme, as well as a Giro Application Letter to authorize the deductions in the near future. Oh, crap.
Anyway, like what CXW says, "Happiness is a choice".
I shall be happy.
Ta!
On Friday night, DH and I were at PH's house baking. And it was at her house where I saw the very bottle of shower gel which I nearly commited suicide with! Tsk! Talk about memories!
Anyway, because there was a 2hours time of refrigeration, we ended up teaching DH some basic guitar strummings. Somehow (though I have no idea how), we gradually "promoted" to the piano that's in the living room. In the end, we had a sort of a skills trading exchange. PH and I taught DH guitar, while DH taught us the piano.
It's quite a weird and daunting feeling playing the piano. The only experience I've had is from the uber-short period in Primary 3; when I joined the school ensemble. Even then, my CCA (known as ECA back then) attendance was terribly miserable. I can't even remember what I learnt! Anyway, back then, I was in the pianica section. Really basic, really. At least, with the pianica, there are only 2 octaves to deal with. And the instrument is small and light; it can be easily placed on the laps and blown through a wind pipe. The piano's totally different.
Anyway, after baking, I lugged home 2kg of chicken drumsticks, 2 1.5L bottles of Coca-Cola, a guitar, and my bag. Assuming the density of water, the bottles of Coke alone weighed 3kg. In total, I lugged 5kg of stuffs home; excluding the guitar and my bag! All of a sudden, I was reminded of The Master. He would have been glad - gleeful, even - to take a dig at this. For once, someone is carrying more bags than Doro! Haha...
ZA came to my abode this morning. He really looks every part a chief. Anyway, the kids were happy to see the new visitor. Serene was so polite; she kept calling him "Kor Kor". Grace was surprisingly friendly, too. The moment she saw him, she smiled. Following which, she "hugged" his legs, and started toying with the hems of his 3quarts pants. Poor ZA looked so paralyzed. He looked as though he dare not move. After being done with laughing, I carried Grace away from him. That's just so funny.
I caught him unaware. He was cooking so earnestly! Can you feel the love?! Hohoho!
Gotcha!
_____________________________________________
Anyway, it's really an indescribable feeling to see things taking shape and tackling things down one by one.
I've received the matriculation card and student Portal account! What a relief!
In addition, I need not take any Content Upgrading Modules for Chemistry! Woot!
AND!!! I am offered a place in Residence Hall 10! Now, accepting it or rejecting it... well... I've not decided yet; and a decision is required urgently. Arrrghhh!
The bad news is, only an hour ago when I got back home, there sits on my desk a letter from CPF. It's a reminder for the upcoming repayments of the CPF Education Scheme, as well as a Giro Application Letter to authorize the deductions in the near future. Oh, crap.
Anyway, like what CXW says, "Happiness is a choice".
I shall be happy.
Ta!
Friday, 9 January 2009
MBTI
MBTI
On Wednesday, DH, Mad, and I were chilling out together at a great cafe at Tiong Bahru area. We had such a wonderful time that we stayed for, what? 4 hours? From 6pm to 10pm? The point is, we stayed until it was closing time.
One of the many diverse topics which were discussed is the MBTI (Meyer Briggs Type Indicator) personality test. We predicted that Mad is definitely an E (Extraverted - meaning that such individuals gets "recharged" from the surroundings and social settings), while both DH and I are definitely I (Intraverted - such individuals gets "recharged" by inward motivation, and spending time alone). Having not done MBTI test before, we urged DH to get one done online. I don't know, but personally, of all the many personality tests, I find MBTI the most accurate. The description of an INTJ applies so uncannily to me that as much as 80% of it; I'm guilty of. It fits like a glove!
That night, DH MSNed and happily announced that she's an INFJ (Intraverted, iNtuitive, Feeling, Judging). This is such a pity, really, because both ours are quite close. I get INTJ (Intraverted, iNtuitive, Thinking, Judging) most of the time. INTJs are relatively rare, at about 1% of the population. I thought I'm already quite a rarity. You know, like a prized panda in China; but DH says that as an INFJ, it's less than 1% of the population.
I replied by saying that she's a weirdo; and that she belongs to a museum.
On Wednesday, DH, Mad, and I were chilling out together at a great cafe at Tiong Bahru area. We had such a wonderful time that we stayed for, what? 4 hours? From 6pm to 10pm? The point is, we stayed until it was closing time.
One of the many diverse topics which were discussed is the MBTI (Meyer Briggs Type Indicator) personality test. We predicted that Mad is definitely an E (Extraverted - meaning that such individuals gets "recharged" from the surroundings and social settings), while both DH and I are definitely I (Intraverted - such individuals gets "recharged" by inward motivation, and spending time alone). Having not done MBTI test before, we urged DH to get one done online. I don't know, but personally, of all the many personality tests, I find MBTI the most accurate. The description of an INTJ applies so uncannily to me that as much as 80% of it; I'm guilty of. It fits like a glove!
That night, DH MSNed and happily announced that she's an INFJ (Intraverted, iNtuitive, Feeling, Judging). This is such a pity, really, because both ours are quite close. I get INTJ (Intraverted, iNtuitive, Thinking, Judging) most of the time. INTJs are relatively rare, at about 1% of the population. I thought I'm already quite a rarity. You know, like a prized panda in China; but DH says that as an INFJ, it's less than 1% of the population.
I replied by saying that she's a weirdo; and that she belongs to a museum.
Thursday, 8 January 2009
OUT!
OUT!
Finally, my personalized timetable is out!
Horrors! I have 3 morning lectures at 8.30am! This means that I've got to wake up at 5.30am! Sigh! Luckily, 2 of the morning lectures will only commence in the month of March! =)
Anyway, instead of the usual course briefings for the past few days, we'll be having team-bonding activities tomorrow (Thurs). Tomorrow is going to be a long and tiring day; with all the running. We're to reach the institute at 8.30am (SIGH! I have to wake up at 5.30am!), and it's expected to end at 6.30pm.
I guess I'll be cabbing down to The Master's house. The impartation session starts at 7pm tomorrow. Hope I won't be late. AND I won't be able to bring the guitar along too! Guess I'll share or borrow The Master's. Anyway, I'm going to STINK OH SO MIGHTILY tomorrow. The orientation tomorrow ends at 6.30pm, and I'm to reach The Master's place at 7pm. There's no time to take a shower. Hohoho!
Tomorrow is going to be so energy-demanding. Hope I'll last through everything; from the start of the team-bonding orientation in the morning to the end of the impartation session in the night.
Finally, my personalized timetable is out!
Horrors! I have 3 morning lectures at 8.30am! This means that I've got to wake up at 5.30am! Sigh! Luckily, 2 of the morning lectures will only commence in the month of March! =)
Anyway, instead of the usual course briefings for the past few days, we'll be having team-bonding activities tomorrow (Thurs). Tomorrow is going to be a long and tiring day; with all the running. We're to reach the institute at 8.30am (SIGH! I have to wake up at 5.30am!), and it's expected to end at 6.30pm.
I guess I'll be cabbing down to The Master's house. The impartation session starts at 7pm tomorrow. Hope I won't be late. AND I won't be able to bring the guitar along too! Guess I'll share or borrow The Master's. Anyway, I'm going to STINK OH SO MIGHTILY tomorrow. The orientation tomorrow ends at 6.30pm, and I'm to reach The Master's place at 7pm. There's no time to take a shower. Hohoho!
Tomorrow is going to be so energy-demanding. Hope I'll last through everything; from the start of the team-bonding orientation in the morning to the end of the impartation session in the night.
Wednesday, 7 January 2009
TRAVELING AND MEETING PEOPLE
One of the greatest advantages of having to travel from one end of Singapore to the other end is the bountiful opportunities to meet up with people. This is especially so when there's MRT concession pass. Today (Tues), after the orientation, I had lunch with LJ at Jurong Point. Following which, I traveled down to meet up with E at The Coffee Bean at Singapore Post at Paya Lebar.
Tomorrow (Wed)? Will be having lunch with DanC in campus. After orientation ends at 4pm, I'll be meeting up with Mad at HSA. Following which, we'll be going to a nearby cafe at Tiong Bahru to meet up with DH. After that, I'll be traveling down to Tampines to meet up with A, who'll be driving both of us down somewhere for dinner.
See? Armed with the MRT concession pass, I'm traveling all over Singapore! It makes sense, really; since I'm already traveling across the island just to attend school. Might as well meet up with people and friends on my way BACK home.
_____________________________________________
Anyway, over coffee at The Coffee Bean earlier today, E (a married man with a baby as old as Grace is) and I had a rather interesting conversation.
E: You women just like to think too much (referring to this joke). Always complicating matters.
M: No, we don't. It's just that men and women think differently, that's all.
E: No, seriously, you women do. For example, if a man forgets an anniversary celebration, you women get all upset, and start equating it to: "He don't love me anymore. I'm no longer important to him".
M: Well, you can't blame us. Anniversaries ARE important.
E: But just because a man forgets an anniversary, it does not mean that she is no longer important to him. It could just be a slip of the mind, or that he is too caught up with work.
M: That's the thing. If a man places his work and career above his family, the priorities are all wrong. Even I don't agree with this. After all, anniversary is only a once-a-year thing.
E: Forgetting an anniversary doesn't make the man's love for the woman any lesser. What's important is that as long as the man is willing to risk his all, if his woman is ever in any form of danger. Forgetting an anniversary doesn't necessarily mean that love is lost; or that it is getting any lesser, even.
M: Yes, that's what is the most important. But try looking at it from a woman's point of perspective. Generally, women give up their all when they decide to marry a man. On the day of marriage, to the woman, it's like leaving everything behind, cleaving off from her maternal family, and to be one with the man. To women, marriage is a very big leap. Of trust. It is like entrusting their lives into the hands of their man. So, how would we feel if our man forgets important things like anniversaries?
M: The thing is: even for a married couple, they should be GOOD FRIENDS with each other even after marriage. You know, married couples should maintain their relationship. More important than anything, they should be each other's close friends. Best friends. Buddies. They should be totally free and easy with each other, talking about anything under the sun. Something like, being able to casually sling an arm over the spouse's shoulder, holding hands, little pecks in the morning, go fishing, having pillow fights, sharing inside jokes, teasing and jabbing at each other, leaning on each other, encouraging each other when the other party is down, or whatnots. The rapport, the connection, that not even blossom friends are able to achieve. The highest level; the acme. It's these daily trivialities that keep - I won't use the word "passion" here - but, relationships and marriages, going. And not all men are all touchy-feely, and neither are all men expressive enough in their love. Especially in this fast-paced society. That's when anniversaries come into play! It's understandable and perfectly fine if a man forgets about anniversaries once in a while, as long as the daily trivialities of affection are present. But if these are lacking, AND with the man forgetting about anniversaries to add on, then it's really bad.
E: Just admit that you women think too much. Know what a friend told me just the other day? He came across this lady, and she was wearing a low-cut dress. He commented that she looks good, and can you guess what she replied? "Just because I'm dressed like this does NOT mean that I'm a whore"!
M: Hmmm... Who knows, maybe your friends said it in a leer and suggestive manner? Of course women will not respond positively to it.
E: Well, this I'm not sure. I'm saying it as how he narrated to me. Anyway, the point is, if a woman does not want to be looked at, then the choice of clothes should be made with more discretion, isn't it? If the clothes scream for attention, then how can she not get it?
M: I don't quite agree. I don't see the rationale - or the need - to dress just to conform to the general public.
E: Ok, since you put it that way, then if one day, I'm dressed in a policeman uniform, and a robbery took place and someone came up to me asking for help to chase after the robber, can I just say, "Look here, my friend, just because I'm dressed in a policeman uniform does not necessarily mean that I'm a police officer, right?"?
M: That's not the point. You're talking about figures of authority here. That's a totally different league.
E: Ok, then how about if I dress up as a clown? If some parents come up to me, requesting that I perform some tricks to entertain their kids, should I do so? Just because I'm in a clown costume?
M: Cosplay. Say you're into cosplay.
E: The thing is, that lady was dressed in a provocative and seductive way. And it's normal for my friend to look. Come on, it's normal for anybody to look! Even you women do so, don't you?
M: Ya, I admit, we do, too.
E: And the guys will probably go, "Woow! Nice body; hot babe!". The women? Most probably they'll be cursing inside and scolding "b****", right?
M: Maybe. Perhaps. I can't say for the general population of women by and large. But most definitely I myself would scrutinize her figure and go, "Wow, long legs! Slim waist! Chicken McNugget!".
E: Ya, you women will turn into green-eyed monsters and start scolding "b****" in your heart.
M: But isn't it funny; the way it is? If some woman dresses sexily, you men enjoy it. But when it comes to your own girlfriend or wife, you men react totally differently. Double standard!"
E: No, that's not!
M: Yes, it is. If other women can dress in such a way, then why not your own girlfriend or wife as well? If it's not double standard, then what is it?
E: WE'RE PROTECTING OUR WOMAN!
M: Rubbish.
E: No, it's not. See ah... We, as a man ourselves, know exactly what is going on in every men's mind whenever they see something nice. And we also know that all other women are secretly cursing and scolding "b****" in their hearts. Therefore, by not allowing our own girlfriend or wife to dress in anything a tad revealing, we're ACTUALLY PROTECTING THEM!
M: Warped theory. Just admit that it's double standard, or that you men are jealously possessive.
E: Really! We're protecting our woman from being labeled as "b****", or being the object of naughty thoughts of other men!
M: ... ... ...
E: And, just admit it. Deep down, you women like it when your man takes control, even if he indicates his displeasure in your choice of clothes. It goes to show that he cares, and is concerned, about you.
M: ... ... ... Yah.
I lost.
On second thoughts, come to think of it, what E said makes sense, really. I've never really looked at it this way before; but I think - to an extent - it's true that men are actually protecting their own woman when they restrict their choice of clothes. Ok, I have an uneasy feeling that this sentence will not go well with many feminists. I clarify, that statement there is just a personal opinion; and everyone is rightfully entitled to having one.
Or maybe, it's just double standard under the disguise of protectiveness.
Anyway, the conclusion? One can never win against a married man.
Tomorrow (Wed)? Will be having lunch with DanC in campus. After orientation ends at 4pm, I'll be meeting up with Mad at HSA. Following which, we'll be going to a nearby cafe at Tiong Bahru to meet up with DH. After that, I'll be traveling down to Tampines to meet up with A, who'll be driving both of us down somewhere for dinner.
See? Armed with the MRT concession pass, I'm traveling all over Singapore! It makes sense, really; since I'm already traveling across the island just to attend school. Might as well meet up with people and friends on my way BACK home.
_____________________________________________
Anyway, over coffee at The Coffee Bean earlier today, E (a married man with a baby as old as Grace is) and I had a rather interesting conversation.
E: You women just like to think too much (referring to this joke). Always complicating matters.
M: No, we don't. It's just that men and women think differently, that's all.
E: No, seriously, you women do. For example, if a man forgets an anniversary celebration, you women get all upset, and start equating it to: "He don't love me anymore. I'm no longer important to him".
M: Well, you can't blame us. Anniversaries ARE important.
E: But just because a man forgets an anniversary, it does not mean that she is no longer important to him. It could just be a slip of the mind, or that he is too caught up with work.
M: That's the thing. If a man places his work and career above his family, the priorities are all wrong. Even I don't agree with this. After all, anniversary is only a once-a-year thing.
E: Forgetting an anniversary doesn't make the man's love for the woman any lesser. What's important is that as long as the man is willing to risk his all, if his woman is ever in any form of danger. Forgetting an anniversary doesn't necessarily mean that love is lost; or that it is getting any lesser, even.
M: Yes, that's what is the most important. But try looking at it from a woman's point of perspective. Generally, women give up their all when they decide to marry a man. On the day of marriage, to the woman, it's like leaving everything behind, cleaving off from her maternal family, and to be one with the man. To women, marriage is a very big leap. Of trust. It is like entrusting their lives into the hands of their man. So, how would we feel if our man forgets important things like anniversaries?
M: The thing is: even for a married couple, they should be GOOD FRIENDS with each other even after marriage. You know, married couples should maintain their relationship. More important than anything, they should be each other's close friends. Best friends. Buddies. They should be totally free and easy with each other, talking about anything under the sun. Something like, being able to casually sling an arm over the spouse's shoulder, holding hands, little pecks in the morning, go fishing, having pillow fights, sharing inside jokes, teasing and jabbing at each other, leaning on each other, encouraging each other when the other party is down, or whatnots. The rapport, the connection, that not even blossom friends are able to achieve. The highest level; the acme. It's these daily trivialities that keep - I won't use the word "passion" here - but, relationships and marriages, going. And not all men are all touchy-feely, and neither are all men expressive enough in their love. Especially in this fast-paced society. That's when anniversaries come into play! It's understandable and perfectly fine if a man forgets about anniversaries once in a while, as long as the daily trivialities of affection are present. But if these are lacking, AND with the man forgetting about anniversaries to add on, then it's really bad.
E: Just admit that you women think too much. Know what a friend told me just the other day? He came across this lady, and she was wearing a low-cut dress. He commented that she looks good, and can you guess what she replied? "Just because I'm dressed like this does NOT mean that I'm a whore"!
M: Hmmm... Who knows, maybe your friends said it in a leer and suggestive manner? Of course women will not respond positively to it.
E: Well, this I'm not sure. I'm saying it as how he narrated to me. Anyway, the point is, if a woman does not want to be looked at, then the choice of clothes should be made with more discretion, isn't it? If the clothes scream for attention, then how can she not get it?
M: I don't quite agree. I don't see the rationale - or the need - to dress just to conform to the general public.
E: Ok, since you put it that way, then if one day, I'm dressed in a policeman uniform, and a robbery took place and someone came up to me asking for help to chase after the robber, can I just say, "Look here, my friend, just because I'm dressed in a policeman uniform does not necessarily mean that I'm a police officer, right?"?
M: That's not the point. You're talking about figures of authority here. That's a totally different league.
E: Ok, then how about if I dress up as a clown? If some parents come up to me, requesting that I perform some tricks to entertain their kids, should I do so? Just because I'm in a clown costume?
M: Cosplay. Say you're into cosplay.
E: The thing is, that lady was dressed in a provocative and seductive way. And it's normal for my friend to look. Come on, it's normal for anybody to look! Even you women do so, don't you?
M: Ya, I admit, we do, too.
E: And the guys will probably go, "Woow! Nice body; hot babe!". The women? Most probably they'll be cursing inside and scolding "b****", right?
M: Maybe. Perhaps. I can't say for the general population of women by and large. But most definitely I myself would scrutinize her figure and go, "Wow, long legs! Slim waist! Chicken McNugget!".
E: Ya, you women will turn into green-eyed monsters and start scolding "b****" in your heart.
M: But isn't it funny; the way it is? If some woman dresses sexily, you men enjoy it. But when it comes to your own girlfriend or wife, you men react totally differently. Double standard!"
E: No, that's not!
M: Yes, it is. If other women can dress in such a way, then why not your own girlfriend or wife as well? If it's not double standard, then what is it?
E: WE'RE PROTECTING OUR WOMAN!
M: Rubbish.
E: No, it's not. See ah... We, as a man ourselves, know exactly what is going on in every men's mind whenever they see something nice. And we also know that all other women are secretly cursing and scolding "b****" in their hearts. Therefore, by not allowing our own girlfriend or wife to dress in anything a tad revealing, we're ACTUALLY PROTECTING THEM!
M: Warped theory. Just admit that it's double standard, or that you men are jealously possessive.
E: Really! We're protecting our woman from being labeled as "b****", or being the object of naughty thoughts of other men!
M: ... ... ...
E: And, just admit it. Deep down, you women like it when your man takes control, even if he indicates his displeasure in your choice of clothes. It goes to show that he cares, and is concerned, about you.
M: ... ... ... Yah.
I lost.
On second thoughts, come to think of it, what E said makes sense, really. I've never really looked at it this way before; but I think - to an extent - it's true that men are actually protecting their own woman when they restrict their choice of clothes. Ok, I have an uneasy feeling that this sentence will not go well with many feminists. I clarify, that statement there is just a personal opinion; and everyone is rightfully entitled to having one.
Or maybe, it's just double standard under the disguise of protectiveness.
Anyway, the conclusion? One can never win against a married man.
Tuesday, 6 January 2009
OUCH!
OUCH!
Was intending to video Grace because she looks so irresistibly cute lying on the sofa, drinking her milk; but ended up capturing this on film accidentally instead.
Ouch! She missed her footing! My girl fell! AND IT'S A HARD FALL!!!
Needless to say, I was alarmed. Naturally, the first innate response is to rush up to her side and fuss over her; but I'm not an advocate of excessive mollycoddling. I was nastily alarmed, yes. But I've known my girl as one who doesn't cry easily; unless it hurts really badly enough.
She landed forcefully on her side before falling forward face-front from the impact. Her milk bottle sprawled across the floor. It took a split second for the pain to register before she started crying. Admittedly, a part of me was secretly hoping that she would rise up to her feet by herself and continue playing goodnaturedly, as she normally would. She always make me feel so proud of her; even in the little things. But when she burst into tears just now, my heart nearly broke. Oh my gosh! SHE'S CRYING! That must have really hurt!
I picked her up off the floor, carried her, and hugged her close. It only took just a bit of soothing and hugging and stroking, and her crying subsided within half a minute. NO KIDDING. That's my girl! Isn't she something?!
Was intending to video Grace because she looks so irresistibly cute lying on the sofa, drinking her milk; but ended up capturing this on film accidentally instead.
Ouch! She missed her footing! My girl fell! AND IT'S A HARD FALL!!!
Needless to say, I was alarmed. Naturally, the first innate response is to rush up to her side and fuss over her; but I'm not an advocate of excessive mollycoddling. I was nastily alarmed, yes. But I've known my girl as one who doesn't cry easily; unless it hurts really badly enough.
She landed forcefully on her side before falling forward face-front from the impact. Her milk bottle sprawled across the floor. It took a split second for the pain to register before she started crying. Admittedly, a part of me was secretly hoping that she would rise up to her feet by herself and continue playing goodnaturedly, as she normally would. She always make me feel so proud of her; even in the little things. But when she burst into tears just now, my heart nearly broke. Oh my gosh! SHE'S CRYING! That must have really hurt!
I picked her up off the floor, carried her, and hugged her close. It only took just a bit of soothing and hugging and stroking, and her crying subsided within half a minute. NO KIDDING. That's my girl! Isn't she something?!
Monday, 5 January 2009
BUSY AS A WORKER ANT
BUSY AS A WORKER ANT
Finally, everything's beginning to take shape and fall into place. Since last Friday (the first day of orientation), everything was AMOK. Somehow, my name was not captured and, in a glitch, ended up being left out of the loop. It resulted in my personal data not being sent to the institute, and thus I could not register for PGDE as Jan 2009 intake. As of last Friday, I was yet to be considered part of the cohort. That Friday, I called this department and that department. Liaised and spoke to a couple of ministry officers, all of whom are awfully helpful and efficient. Ended up dashing here and there; first to the Ministry to pick up some forms, then to the institute to submit the forms. Needless to say, I missed the first day of orientation.
On Saturday at 12pm, we had a session with The Master. We finished at about 2.30pm, and Doro, ZA, and I went for lunch at Simei. In between lunch, we squeezed out some time to make an appreciation card for The Master. That night, halfway during fellowship at TM Open Plaza, I sneaked some time off to have some passport photos taken. On Sunday midnight, I was still printing copies of the O Level Results Slips, Polytechnic Transcripts, and University Transcripts. Following which, I did some artwork until 3am.
Fell asleep at 4am. Woke up at 6.20am for today's orientation at 8.30am. Only just today, the relevant forms and documents were finally fully submitted to the Registration Office. Following which, I made a trip down to the Finance Office to make payment for Health and Wellness Fees and Hostel Application Fees, went to the Alumni Office to collect an alumni gift pack, then to the Student Liaison Office to collect a welcome gift pack and NIE shirt (for Thursday's team-bonding activities), then finally to NTU Student Service Center to submit the Hostel Application Form. I basically went everywhere today.
Finally. All that are required to be submitted have already been done so. All that's left now is to wait for my matriculation card to be generated, and a student Portal account to be created. The friendly staffs down at the department predicted that the card and Portal account would be ready as soon as this Wednesday. Really relieved, honestly, because everybody else have access to the Portal, the Blackboard, as well as their personalized timetable. Me? I'm as clueless as a dodo bird.
It's really a relief to see the misty haze finally taking shape. Just the matriculation card and Portal account left, and I'm done! I'm not placing high hopes on campus hostel however, because the vacancy is very limited, and the staff at the counter admitted to having quite a long waiting list when I probed. This is a main worry. After 2.5years of spending more than 4 hours traveling back and forth, I have no desire to do so for another year. It is just beyond tiring - physically and mentally; having to wake up at 5.30am when the first lesson starts at 8am, and reaching home at 6pm plus when the last lesson ends at 4pm. Buona Vista is already bad enough; Boon Lay will most probably suck dry the life out of me.
Oh well, there are so much stuffs to juggle with. Basically as busy as a bumblebee. Albeit it feels a tad hectic - so much so that I hardly made time to eat - it really gives one a really good sensation of achievement. It's just a good feeling to tackle things down, one by one. Like pinballs.
Matriculation card, student Portal account, Blackboard, personalized timetable, elective studies, content upgrading modules, hostel accommodation, celebrations for the Jan babies, organizing and planning, card preparations, present-buying. When all these are settled and done, I'll finally get down to dealing with my own personal stuffs. I've yet to set any clear goals or directions. Gee! Resolutions for 2009. Ministry. Spiritual walk. Finance management. Loans repayment. Takamine guitar. Palmtop. LASIK. Social life. Club activities. Time management. Weight management and maintenance. The future.
Have been slugging around for a tad too long. It's time to clear all the dubious thoughts, straighten the mind, find trust to believe, and get back on. Oh well. Things will turn out fine, most definitely, I believe. Please just affirm me of it more often and cheer me on!
Finally, everything's beginning to take shape and fall into place. Since last Friday (the first day of orientation), everything was AMOK. Somehow, my name was not captured and, in a glitch, ended up being left out of the loop. It resulted in my personal data not being sent to the institute, and thus I could not register for PGDE as Jan 2009 intake. As of last Friday, I was yet to be considered part of the cohort. That Friday, I called this department and that department. Liaised and spoke to a couple of ministry officers, all of whom are awfully helpful and efficient. Ended up dashing here and there; first to the Ministry to pick up some forms, then to the institute to submit the forms. Needless to say, I missed the first day of orientation.
On Saturday at 12pm, we had a session with The Master. We finished at about 2.30pm, and Doro, ZA, and I went for lunch at Simei. In between lunch, we squeezed out some time to make an appreciation card for The Master. That night, halfway during fellowship at TM Open Plaza, I sneaked some time off to have some passport photos taken. On Sunday midnight, I was still printing copies of the O Level Results Slips, Polytechnic Transcripts, and University Transcripts. Following which, I did some artwork until 3am.
Fell asleep at 4am. Woke up at 6.20am for today's orientation at 8.30am. Only just today, the relevant forms and documents were finally fully submitted to the Registration Office. Following which, I made a trip down to the Finance Office to make payment for Health and Wellness Fees and Hostel Application Fees, went to the Alumni Office to collect an alumni gift pack, then to the Student Liaison Office to collect a welcome gift pack and NIE shirt (for Thursday's team-bonding activities), then finally to NTU Student Service Center to submit the Hostel Application Form. I basically went everywhere today.
Finally. All that are required to be submitted have already been done so. All that's left now is to wait for my matriculation card to be generated, and a student Portal account to be created. The friendly staffs down at the department predicted that the card and Portal account would be ready as soon as this Wednesday. Really relieved, honestly, because everybody else have access to the Portal, the Blackboard, as well as their personalized timetable. Me? I'm as clueless as a dodo bird.
It's really a relief to see the misty haze finally taking shape. Just the matriculation card and Portal account left, and I'm done! I'm not placing high hopes on campus hostel however, because the vacancy is very limited, and the staff at the counter admitted to having quite a long waiting list when I probed. This is a main worry. After 2.5years of spending more than 4 hours traveling back and forth, I have no desire to do so for another year. It is just beyond tiring - physically and mentally; having to wake up at 5.30am when the first lesson starts at 8am, and reaching home at 6pm plus when the last lesson ends at 4pm. Buona Vista is already bad enough; Boon Lay will most probably suck dry the life out of me.
Oh well, there are so much stuffs to juggle with. Basically as busy as a bumblebee. Albeit it feels a tad hectic - so much so that I hardly made time to eat - it really gives one a really good sensation of achievement. It's just a good feeling to tackle things down, one by one. Like pinballs.
Matriculation card, student Portal account, Blackboard, personalized timetable, elective studies, content upgrading modules, hostel accommodation, celebrations for the Jan babies, organizing and planning, card preparations, present-buying. When all these are settled and done, I'll finally get down to dealing with my own personal stuffs. I've yet to set any clear goals or directions. Gee! Resolutions for 2009. Ministry. Spiritual walk. Finance management. Loans repayment. Takamine guitar. Palmtop. LASIK. Social life. Club activities. Time management. Weight management and maintenance. The future.
Have been slugging around for a tad too long. It's time to clear all the dubious thoughts, straighten the mind, find trust to believe, and get back on. Oh well. Things will turn out fine, most definitely, I believe. Please just affirm me of it more often and cheer me on!
Sunday, 4 January 2009
TORTOISES
TORTOISES
These are the 2 family pet in the house. The younger brother cares for them, Serene and Grace are terrified of them, Doro likes them, and I am neutral about them (except that they can stink quite powerfully at times).
The both of them used to be so tiny and innocent and cute; all small and fragile, with a small tiny shell on the back. They used to be so small, that I can easily pick them up across the shell by using the thumb and index finger. A couple of years back, if I felt for any cheap entertainment, I would set them loose to roam the house and let them crawl across my palm just for the fun of it. They were so light and crawly. The sensation is really nice and ticklish. However, the only reward I've ever received for allowing them to crawl across my palm is a piece of poo. Talk about bad timing!
Now, they've grown so much. So much so that just imagining them crawling across the palm sends jitters down my spine. They are so big that I no longer find them cute. Rather, nowadays, I think they look delicious instead. Grow any bigger, and it'll be tough looking for a pot big enough to maketurtle tortoise soup.
Anyway, did I mention that both Serene and Grace are absolutely terrified of the tortoises? They were not, initially. But thanks to Mum and Aunt (you naughty somemore, you naughty somemore? Tortoise come out and bite your butt, then you know!), they are now conditioned to be. The both of them used to be so friendly to the 2 reptiles; they would squat beside the container and stare at them exploringly with child-like curiousity.
Oh well, sometimes, it is really amazing at how fast children pick things up (Grace picked up the trademark action just after a couple of weeks staying here. It was truly not my intention to teach her that. I was just doing it out of fun and habit. I was more surprised [albeit pleasantly] than anybody when she started doing the trademark action). More amazing of all, is the powerful effect that words can bring about. The 2 girls are now so afraid of the tortoises that they simply refuse to be anywhere near them!
Anyway, I'm trying to undo the effects. It's easier to start with Grace, because she is still small and tiny at 18-months old. It is just a matter of carrying her in my arms; and she'll have no where to escape.
It's obvious that she's terrified of them. Whenever I carry her on my arms and squat down directly beside the container, she would hug me tightly and bring herself as close as possible to my chest, all the time while muttering, "Pa (scared)... Pa (scared)..". I always reply by encouraging her not to be, because Jie Jie is around, and Jie Jie is carrying her. She is protected, and there's nothing to be afraid of. But with her currently limited linguistic capability, I doubt she understands.
In the end, it seems like it's best to do it her way; her level; her language. "Grace, Grace. Wu gui (tortoise). Hello! Hello, wu gui, hello!", and I waved at the 2 reptiles with faked enthusiasm. Sometimes, this makes me feel so silly. But Grace always imitates me. Most of the time, she would say "Hello" too, and wave at them. And when it's time to go (because my legs are getting numb from all the squatting; what more with having to support Grace's weight), I'll say, "Byebye, wu gui, bye! Grace. Wu gui, byebye!" and I'll wave again. Predictably, she does the same thing too.
Maybe, it's getting a bit overboard. Grace is starting to wave hello and goodbye even to cars! Oh my goodness. She loves to stand by the windows (which stretches from the floor to the ceiling), and stare at the passing vehicles. Today, however, just an hour ago, I caught my dear girl saying, "Che che (cars)... Bye bye...". Yes, with that little wave of hers. Oh my goodness!
Anyway, the 2 girls will be staying here from today until this Tuesday! I'll be having so much fun with them!
These are the 2 family pet in the house. The younger brother cares for them, Serene and Grace are terrified of them, Doro likes them, and I am neutral about them (except that they can stink quite powerfully at times).
The both of them used to be so tiny and innocent and cute; all small and fragile, with a small tiny shell on the back. They used to be so small, that I can easily pick them up across the shell by using the thumb and index finger. A couple of years back, if I felt for any cheap entertainment, I would set them loose to roam the house and let them crawl across my palm just for the fun of it. They were so light and crawly. The sensation is really nice and ticklish. However, the only reward I've ever received for allowing them to crawl across my palm is a piece of poo. Talk about bad timing!
Now, they've grown so much. So much so that just imagining them crawling across the palm sends jitters down my spine. They are so big that I no longer find them cute. Rather, nowadays, I think they look delicious instead. Grow any bigger, and it'll be tough looking for a pot big enough to make
Anyway, did I mention that both Serene and Grace are absolutely terrified of the tortoises? They were not, initially. But thanks to Mum and Aunt (you naughty somemore, you naughty somemore? Tortoise come out and bite your butt, then you know!), they are now conditioned to be. The both of them used to be so friendly to the 2 reptiles; they would squat beside the container and stare at them exploringly with child-like curiousity.
Oh well, sometimes, it is really amazing at how fast children pick things up (Grace picked up the trademark action just after a couple of weeks staying here. It was truly not my intention to teach her that. I was just doing it out of fun and habit. I was more surprised [albeit pleasantly] than anybody when she started doing the trademark action). More amazing of all, is the powerful effect that words can bring about. The 2 girls are now so afraid of the tortoises that they simply refuse to be anywhere near them!
Anyway, I'm trying to undo the effects. It's easier to start with Grace, because she is still small and tiny at 18-months old. It is just a matter of carrying her in my arms; and she'll have no where to escape.
It's obvious that she's terrified of them. Whenever I carry her on my arms and squat down directly beside the container, she would hug me tightly and bring herself as close as possible to my chest, all the time while muttering, "Pa (scared)... Pa (scared)..". I always reply by encouraging her not to be, because Jie Jie is around, and Jie Jie is carrying her. She is protected, and there's nothing to be afraid of. But with her currently limited linguistic capability, I doubt she understands.
In the end, it seems like it's best to do it her way; her level; her language. "Grace, Grace. Wu gui (tortoise). Hello! Hello, wu gui, hello!", and I waved at the 2 reptiles with faked enthusiasm. Sometimes, this makes me feel so silly. But Grace always imitates me. Most of the time, she would say "Hello" too, and wave at them. And when it's time to go (because my legs are getting numb from all the squatting; what more with having to support Grace's weight), I'll say, "Byebye, wu gui, bye! Grace. Wu gui, byebye!" and I'll wave again. Predictably, she does the same thing too.
Maybe, it's getting a bit overboard. Grace is starting to wave hello and goodbye even to cars! Oh my goodness. She loves to stand by the windows (which stretches from the floor to the ceiling), and stare at the passing vehicles. Today, however, just an hour ago, I caught my dear girl saying, "Che che (cars)... Bye bye...". Yes, with that little wave of hers. Oh my goodness!
Anyway, the 2 girls will be staying here from today until this Tuesday! I'll be having so much fun with them!
FUNNY QUESTION
FUNNY QUESTION
Last Saturday night, Doro asked me when is the last time I shitted. Seriously.
It is just so to-the-face and funny.
It's the first time in my life being asked such a question, I think.
o_O
Last Saturday night, Doro asked me when is the last time I shitted. Seriously.
It is just so to-the-face and funny.
It's the first time in my life being asked such a question, I think.
o_O
Friday, 2 January 2009
RESOLUTIONS 2009
RESOLUTIONS 2009
Okay, I've not really got down to planning resolutions for the year 2009 yet (not that I've the habit, anyway). Strangely, unlike past years, I feel the urge to do so quite strongly this time round. This is so weird. Anyway, as mentioned earlier, I've not gotten down to deciding on resolutions yet. I never thought I'll live to say this: but I guess, one of the resolutions may be gaining some mass or - at least - maintaining the current weight. Like I've said, I've not done much thinking on resolutions yet. Perhaps, in view of other things, this resolution might be placed low in terms of priority; maybe, it'll be kicked out, even. Again, I repeat, I've not spent much time on resolutions planning. Maybe I'll procrastinate my way out of it totally. Hopefully. Hohoho!
Ok, I'm speaking incoherently. Time for bed.
Okay, I've not really got down to planning resolutions for the year 2009 yet (not that I've the habit, anyway). Strangely, unlike past years, I feel the urge to do so quite strongly this time round. This is so weird. Anyway, as mentioned earlier, I've not gotten down to deciding on resolutions yet. I never thought I'll live to say this: but I guess, one of the resolutions may be gaining some mass or - at least - maintaining the current weight. Like I've said, I've not done much thinking on resolutions yet. Perhaps, in view of other things, this resolution might be placed low in terms of priority; maybe, it'll be kicked out, even. Again, I repeat, I've not spent much time on resolutions planning. Maybe I'll procrastinate my way out of it totally. Hopefully. Hohoho!
Ok, I'm speaking incoherently. Time for bed.
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