Hall 9 Legacy & CAC Outing

Hall 9 camp is over. Again filled with the same kind of nostalgia for the people I bonded with for the past few days. They are also my neighbours whom I'll always get to see them around at least for this year.

Had suppers, heart-to-heart talks together with them. I felt myself opening up again. It felt good.

As I'm quite a serious person, thoughts of having to perform on the D&D night easily troubles me. My partner is an inter-JC pageant so probably she has much more experience for such event. There are many things next week I can't confirm because of the D&D preparation. Hope that everything will go on fine.

We agreed on singing and dancing for the performance. Singing will be done predominantly by me and vice versa. The harder part is its integration. Photoshoot was tiring but I think catwalk training will be worse. Haha. I hope the rest of the hall niners can support me too. Haha.

Met up with friends from Valus earlier on for Ice Skating on Sunday. It was fun, I could skate much better than before. I no longer need the metal assist bar and had learnt to brake with a 180 degrees turn. Cool right. Haha.

There were many who couldn't make it for the outing. Otherwise, it would have been more fun. We tried to learn the basics from Aloysius. He's pretty skilled in that. After that, we had games like chasing groups of people. Alvin and Peng Fei picked up speed rather fast. For me, it's still slow. Don't know if it's my extra toe that's jamming my blood flow to the leg... It feels really numb after a while and I could not stand perpendicularly straight to the blades. My friends are all amazed by the extra toe but it seems to be giving more problems actually.

Somehow, I'm still trying to adapt myself to the new environment. There's many things I haven't get used to. Self-discipline is one thing that is very difficult to be instilled within me. All the continual assessment through GPA seems creepy to me. I have heard so many times that the GPA isn't everything there is to university life but somehow at this phase, it matters to me. Will I change my perception by the time I reach year 3? The seniors have been very helpful and I'm also trying my best to expand my social network. The funny thing is many people have asked me why I joined Computer Engineering. Said that I'm one of a kind to be found in that course. Lol, don't really get it though.

Post-camp Thoughts

I think the CAC FOC was pretty awesome. Considering all the efforts the seniors put up, it's a wonderful one. Also because of the numerous sponsors, CAC is able to tighten down the budget to doing wonders with peanut camp fees.

I was hoping that the pictures would be uploaded soon but it seems nowhere in sight for Valous, my group yet. The video will be uploaded to the blog soon as mentioned in that CAC blog.

I should have brought mobile charger so I can take more personal photos with friends on my end here.

Day 0
It was a tiring day for everyone. There were too many things squeezed into it and everyone had to run from stations to stations all the time until about 3 am.

There is group cheers, flags that have to be settled down shortly after introduction and icebreakers. I realised I didn't bring my contact lenses case and I got to share with Alvin Teo. Thanks.

Day 1
We learned mass dance and more running to go for the programme of Tour de NTU. Pool games was eventually cancelled due to extensive wet weather that prolonged throughout the day. Honestly, I was kind of disappointed actually as it was also another main component of the camp. During that night, it was also planned for fright night. The seniors tried to tell us "scary" stories before that and I could already anticipate that to happen. It really isn't scary to me at all... I have to pair up with Nian Ya, a year 2 senior as there weren't enough female freshies in my group to pair up for. Another disappointment. Haha.

Day 2
It's amazing race day. We had to go from places to places to complete tasks. It wasn't that hard to start with just that due to the unpolished skills we have in mass dance, we had to leave NTU last. Ying Ying and others was kind of amazed when I drew a lion on the kite in a brief sketch. She seems interested to get me running for the JCRC for hall 9. But we had fun throughout. Everyone utilised their expertise in completing tasks and had fun times at the Maxwell centre sharing food and stuff. We did many stupid things like showing public our mass dance and getting them to do "thousand Buddha hands" with us. Our last stop is at Sentosa to prepare for next day's activities.

Day 3
We had to wake up early for the beach games for the entire day. It was fun really and Joyce was kind of overjoyed when I told her that. She's the overall-in-charge of that beach games. Here I did more even sun-tanning and my friends thought that the sun tan was over drastic when they saw the sunburn tan lines on my back. I didn't acquire that from this camp okay? By this day, we're already very comfortable with each others' company. Realised that in general, Valous isn't that rar-rar kind of people but nevertheless fun-loving. At night, we went back to NTU to start the secret pal programme. Everyone was blindfolded and be given time to interact with their SP with conversations and sense of touch. The initiation night was really dirty. I was told by my friends in NUS that they didn't play that far. I was prompted to answer questions that are downright horny in front of my SP and have to do close and intimate actions mimicking kissing in front of numerous seniors whom I don't exactly know who either. I got my hair nourished in raw eggs, flour, shampoo and many other things you can think of.

My SP and I nearly chilled to death by the time the initiation night ended. Got a garbage bag to shield us from chills of the morning wind sweeping past our body like blades. My SP's nice. She shared that bag with me voluntarily. After that, we didn't talk much. My mind's entering a whole new realm of fatigue. Something that I've almost long forgotten to what seems alike to the experience in BMT, only this time is through the compounded sleep deprivation.

Day 4
Played some more games with the OG in the early part of the day. From here, I have a conclusion that Valous has many sadistic people. We get energised mostly for "touchy" games like "MRT", and my group has its own version of it that even the organisers are scared to play with us especially with our hard-core "Team Rocket" people. It's an internal joke that we shared. This is also a night for SP date. We're supposed to dress well for the night. The cool part of this is that we get to go to Pariss International Restaurant for dinner date. Oh gosh, all the cents of $45 I paid for the camp fees is definitely worthwhile. Haha. Although the dreaded part is that after grooming well for it, the guys have to go through series of torment and humiliation before we can get our SP out for the dates. By that time, not many guys look good with dishevelled hair and attire.

For me, I was asked to do many push ups that I really lost count of and to hug a guy like a bear. In front of many girls, I'm asked to strip and tease, then I got to sing out loud like 10 metres away outside the room to get everyone's attention on me. I also had to run around the place twice also. Next I was asked to say many silly lines as my nickname is Aladdin and I got to fly the magic carpet as requested. It all ended after swallowing down Wasabi bread. I felt disappointed as my SP really didn't seem to bother to dress well at all. (I'll upload the picture next time. No scanners available now.)

Dinner time was fun with the games. My SP didn't like to eat meat and I had to adjust the portion accordingly so that I can get the right amount for the 2 of us. The conversations that went on between us were kind of out of context. I presume for occasions like that, it's always best to have light-hearted talk. Instead, we're discussing IQ questions. More brain cells died.

After the sumptious dinner, we went to DXO to club. I'm glad to return to my OG. I have nothing much to talk to her already and it's getting awkward to just be there looking dumbfounded. Ha. I find that I really don't dance that much as I did back then. Perhaps because halfway through, my OG girls left the place. They're not exactly the clubbing types which in a way is good. Ha.

Slept quite late that day. The guys had guys talk that night. I'm surprised that the girls didn't have that. They said that they needed beauty sleep more. Ha.

Day 5
It's the finale day. We all knew it had to end somehow and day 5 is the final day that we have with each other in Castovia. I kind of miss the time that we shared and the seniors have put up a really good video recollecting the short time we spent with each other. I'll remember it for the days to go by in NTU. More updates to follow next when I get more photos.

The Bangkok Gang

It was supposed to be quite a nice event I think but I ruined the significance by being late, again. It was first time ever I sensed that immense anger in CP when I told them I'll be late. Alighted the bus and took a cab from where I alighted. Awkward silence and forced smiles were stretched out their faces. I expected worse situation like hurling comments and things like that. Guilty...

Nevertheless, things got better and we went to play Frisbee, roller blading and some mini-picnic. I just wanted this to be a outing to sort of celebrate for CP in proper. Thought that the ad-hoc 21st celebration @ Bangkok Airport was too haphazard. Ha.

It looks like she enjoyed it. There's a new pooh bear to her collections of it. I think she already has a lot of them though.

I was blamed because there was excessive food that we brought. I intended for that to be more of a picnic session. Who knows we actually skated and played Frisbee more? Ha.

The weather was really scorching hot. Good that it didn't rain like the previous days. Sun tanning was to its maximum effect that I got sunburned. Ouch.

 The guy at the skating outlet was very friendly but a bit too friendly. I was quite stunned when he commented on my looks. I had nothing more to say regarding that than to thank him for his compliment though. Lol. Cheryl says I shouldn't be too nice as I'll be giving the wrong signals. Ha. Is there a fault for being just plain polite?

Cheryl says that she's someone complicated and she doesn't like to talk about things. From what I see, it's not exactly so. It just takes the right key to unlock her heart to share about her personal life. CP said that she really hopes that the Bangkok gang can stay on as long as it can be. I hope so too and hope that whatever happened in life, we try to stay true to ourselves and not be 'plastic' to the ones who matter to us.

Just For Thoughts

Saw a new episode of 'Just for Laughs'. They had one with the fitting room curtain loosely 'fitted' and unaware female victims had thought that they had accidentally tugged that down. For the first few seconds, the women had their eyes covered but only to peek out of curiosity at the man in the fitting room with varied expressions. The man was trying out a bikini when the curtain was tugged down. Some stare with wide eyes while others are scanning at him with lusty intentions. I wonder what fetish those women have. Haha.

I was thinking the way Buddhist monk Ming Yi handles the charity organisation has just totally crushed the remain of what little faith we have left in charity organisations. Even in charity organisations, embezzling money can be that prevalent. First with Mr Durai and next is him, someone who is known to go all out to perform stunts to raise funds for patients. Just one blow is sufficient to destroy all the good reputations he has earned so far. His deeds can all doubtfully be questioned by the public of any other intentions for his personal agenda. Who knows?

Wilson and Zach had talked about the air bubble in the spiritual heart. We try and work so hard to fill our lives with meaning. We meet more friends, study hard, work hard, dress up to our best. Everything we do, we strive for the better. Yet in a corner of our heart, we always feel something is missing. That missing air bubble can be different for everyone. For some, it may be religion, some is to carry out the acts of humanitarian through voluntarism and charity, but for others, it may not be so. I guess, I know what's mine. But somehow, I'm not actively trying to fill it up. Maybe I'm still waiting for the right time, but... when is it so?

Friends

After a long time of not hearing anything from D, I've decided to seek help to contact D. It was after a casual chat with Jialing that I realised she not only didn't talk to me but also to Tracy, Jialing and Keefer. The good thing is that Tracy managed to get her in the end. Hope that everything's all right.

I realise sometimes I do need a friend to just stay by the side. Even without doing anything, it's spiritually fulfilling. Haven't had the simplest of such joy since a long time back. Thanks WY. =)

Aaron asked me if I felt offended by the fact that the camp was organised by HOPE church and yet the non-Christians were kept in the dark. My answer is no. I felt it is fine as long no preaching is carried out under the pretext of friendship. Trust is a vulnerable thing. Once broken, it's hard to mend it back. I trust that it's not that intention they're befriending me for.

Didn't know Elson used to be that high profile as a model. Ha, he didn't flaunt it to me just that I happened to ask about his part-time job besides studying. He looks like a down-to-earth kind of person. I guess that's why he quitted modelling because of several complicated issues he had faced in the past.

Mum asked me be considerate to my roommate in hall. I hadn't really thought of such things as an issue. always thought that everything will just be the same. Living with another person could be a different thing. Oh well, I'll be more considerate, JY.

Anyone interested to work at a one day event for NLB for a heritage event on 2 August? The task would be to take photographs and to upload photographs to an online portal as well as other ad-hoc jobs on site. As simple as that. $60 for that event. Also comes with a free T-shirt. Going for the rehearsal the day before will add another $30. Limited vacancy. More details will be given at a future date.

Stir of Emotions

Seems like lots of people are upset about not able to get enrolled for the NBS camp. I'm not sure for me whether it's a right choice to give computer engineering camp a miss. The suspense of waiting for the CAC camp is killing me figuratively. The registration deadline has again been extended due to the downtime earlier on. To add on to the 'excitement' I'm feeling right now, my friends who will be going to NUS have been enthusiastically uploading their photos of FOC to let the whole world know about the happening events they're going through. Argh. It's okay, I'll have my fun later on.

The expenses for outings are getting to burn my fingers. I need to find more income. I don't want to take anything from Dad for things that I'm enjoying myself. It's just doesn't seem right. Other than tuition, are there other possible options I can explore.

I realise I'm just not cut out for games. Can't even play reasonably well in a game of pool. I know practice makes perfect but I think I know my strengths well enough and that playing games don't fall in that category.

Dispute Call

Oh gosh, I'm feeling so mad I can emotionally 'explode'. In June, I have actually charged $2000 laptop bought at PC Fair to the UOB NOW card for the reason that I would be able to earn smart$ points. But hey, there's only 500 participating merchant outlets so that's not considered. Thus, I called UOB to kindly ask if they can credit that transaction to my visa mini instead whereby I would be able to earn the uni$ instead.

But guess what? No, it's not possible. After sometime whereby this agent Jessica got my situation right but still not able to help me in anyway, I requested for a manager to the line. As usual, I can't get hold of a manager, and hence a manager callback was requested within 2 hours. Within 15 minutes or so, someone called back reiterating what the agent told me just a moment ago. I was so pissed off. Come on, I can provide any details they need and they have the information that such charge was credited using the card. I don't need any posting of charges back to the card and I don't see why they can't just adjust the uni$ points! Ultimately, the conclusion that I imply is that, "No I can't help you with that. Maybe better luck next time". Oh gosh, if in that case I would rather use ATM if I can. Thanks UOB for that.

So pissed right now, I should have gone on and on to dispute accordingly with their terms and conditions.

Little Rants

Quarrelled with mum again. She scolded me for something I did not do. Just felt very pant up inside to tolerate and to listen to matters that she wrongly accused me for, thus I rebuked back with my reasoning. She cried, saying that I'm not as obedient as how I used to be now I'm an adult. =.= Seriously, if I'm not in the wrong, there's really no need for me to say sorry. But I guess, when girls/women cry, the guys are always in the wrong. Guys are always stereotyped to be stronger both emotionally and physically in almost anyway. It sucks to be a guy sometimes.

Things are going to be different in university. Coping with new environment, new learning methods, new friends. Will I still be able to cope if a relationship is at hand? I don't wish to jeopardise the future of any party yet I don't want to lose an opportunity if it comes along. After talking to CP, I realised what a failure I am in choosing a girlfriend. I didn't know what I wanted in the past. Now, will I still make the same mistake that I had in the past? I guess only time will tell.

Bangkok Trip

Back from the trip~! I think I'm already missing the things in Bangkok. The people there are mostly very friendly and the things are uber cool and cheap! I think I bought many things from there.

That's me with the things I bought from the shopping frenzy. Quite a great deal. 1 jacket, 6 T-shirts, 4 singlets, 1 long sleeve shirt, 1 sling bag, 1 bottle of honey, a few souvenirs, 2 chokers, 4 short pants, 1 pair of jeans and many more.

Another thought that struck me was that even though I had known Cheryl just for the trip, everything went pretty well as though I've known her for quite some time. Probably she's just very sociable.

Kind of happy that E turned up to send me off. Not something essential but she did it anyway. Just kind of dumb when she bluffed me she wasn't going to do that.

It's my first time taking a flight, hence I was on the edge when the plane's about to take off. Same for landing. I just silently prayed for everything to be fine. Ha.

I thought that the terminal would be more impressive but okay... What more can I ask for something that cheap. Just perhaps the name of the terminal can be changed to something that sounds nicer. =x

What's really cheap down there are the wholesales market. There's just too many apparels to choose from. It takes true effort to source for something nice that I seek to purchase.

The climb onto Wat Arun was quite memorable too. The steps seem to be designed in a steep angle as if it was purposely constructed for some purpose. Should have bought some souvenirs there, it's relatively cheaper than those you can buy elsewhere!

I really want to have a better camera. Mine really sucks. No image stabilizer or face recognition feature. Without tripod or flash, photos will be blur for sure. Sigh.

I think the trip is kind of long for 4 days long worth of shopping. Everyone was really exhausted to the maximum. I think we spent more time in the airport doing stupid poses for camwhoring than to do much effective sightseeing.

I was told about the impression I give to others for my image. Thought of it as a compliment in a different sense. But what the hell, I'm still going to be who I am. No change to that.

The full batch of photos can be found on facebook.

At the same time, I reflected something. Thought that I was really fortunate to be born in Singapore. I have the necessities like getting a proper meal provided to me without me having to worry for it. That's not exactly the case for them. I see many kids at least 10 years younger performing or begging on streets with their father or mother. Imagining life's going to be the same for them many years down the road. It's a phenomenon that's naturally occurring to poorer countries and as for us, we can only count our blessings.

Yesterday, a friend told me something about his past. I was quite shocked. Didn't expect that to come from him. He had a troubled past and it's not something glorious that you would mention to a friend you know no longer than 2 months. But from what he has to say, I would say that he has figured out what the right path is and only something good awaits him. I'm happy for him to be enlightened after all that he's gone through. I hope everything goes well for him.

I wanted to tell E about my opinion on relationship but couldn't find a right time to. I figured out it's not just about the feelings that occurred momentarily. What else can we fall back on if the interest fades? It's also about whether we can be ready to tolerate each other's character. Would it matter if I tell her... Or since it's not something that will change the outcome, I should just rest the case?

Freshmen Orientation Camps

23rd June 2008

I shall set the date for easy reference to my blog inserts until further updates to my blog template. Haha.

Just gotten my orientation package today. Yay, took some time to sort out the ones I'm interested with. Freshmen orientation camps are fun but I shall be practical enough to choose just one to attend for.

1. NTU sports club camp
2. NTU CAC camp
3. NTU Student Union camp

These are not arranged in any merit order. I got to make a decision fast enough to enjoy the early bird offer. Hopefully, it's in line with what Jy wants to attend for. =P

I think this is the only photo that more or less the entire Argentina members are in. Aye, I must train my thighs more in review of the cycling activities that went on that day. Ha, it's fun though. More pictures can be seen on my facebook profile.

Went gym with Aaron, Kelvin and his friend yesterday. It was more fruitful than usual. But still we chatted quite a lot as I don't recall being in gym for more than 2 hours~!

The intensity of the sunlight wasn't as hot as what we thought (what do you expect after a whole morning downpour) so the suntan session was called off. I doubt anyone brought any lotion either. Heh. I also think that it's a bit thick skin to use someone's stuff when I don't even know him before.

Yesterday's outing with E, ML and BW turned out horrible. It was another impromptu one but I didn't expect anything like that would be possible. Until now, I still couldn't figure out the entire story after the heated arguments between E and BW. Something BW must have said to E for her to be THAT indignant... Some sort of negotiation talks went on for 30min+ I believe while ML and me were at a loss of what to do or say. Somehow, I was told that it didn't have anything to do with me but I believe it's somehow related though. I told E that when she's in a state to inform me, then tell me at that time. Will things still be the same thereafter?

Emo Calls...

Hey D, if you want to call me and talk about things, I'm here. I'm just so annoyed that you hung my call when I return your call. If you so want to talk about things, then don't give me 4 missed calls and reject one when I call back and messaged back. Is the friendship that volatile or indispensable? I'm sorry if I happened to be away from my mobile. But I'll respond nevertheless. If you're reading this, think it through and be in my shoes please.

Enough about bitching. Finally settled my matriculation tasks. I'm so sorry Jy for keeping you wait for my matriculation number. It's my bad habit of procrastinating tasks. =x The NTU website has revamped and it looks pretty good. Just that I'm rather frustrated about the photo upload script. It sucks. I have to try again and again before I can manage to upload my passport photo up. I must have a great deal of patience I think.

It's almost coming to an end for GENacts activities. I wonder if any meaningful friendships can be forged out of these few events that I am only able to make it for... Like what wy has said, the group consists of people who prefer to stay in the comfort zone and not those who will go all out and do crazy things. It's not wrong, just that the times would have been more memorable for everyone if we treasure the times more. In the meantime, let's just think of more cheers...

Watched this Korean drama today and saw this scene of a little girl cry and snuggle up to the father. She asked him if his love for the family will vanish just like his love for the wife. Asked in translated mandarin "Ni hai hui ai wo ma?" in tears brimming. I thought this is a heart rending moment. If ever a guy wants to file for divorce, this is the pain the child has to go through...

I guess some things just cannot happen no matter how much you want it to be... Sigh.

Learnt 'saccharine' word from someone's blog. Another new vocabulary for my limited bank of words. Haha.

Don't Say Goodbye...

It's finally over with the daily nags, complaints, rattling of customers which I so hate the job for. But it also means saying goodbye to the people I see in Starhub. In the process of surrendering over the temp staff pass and the calculator, I subconsciously counted back the number of days these items have been with me, yes it's 6 months already. It's time to move on. But why is the nostalgia feeling always there to bug me when I want to move on?

For most of the friends I've come to know, in fact pretty much for sure, it's probably the last time I'll see them around. Hereby, I'm bidding farewell to Desmond, Jonathan, Frank, John, Ronald, Meiling, Yeow Kheng and others in my batch.

As for my team, I suppose team bonding doesn't come that easy. Truthfully, I didn't feel quite bonded to the team at all for the 1st month or so. It's hard to just blend in to the group as though we're a close clique already. It all takes time and I'm definitely not anti-social. Ha. Fortunately, I felt a sense of belonging to the team eventually when I joined them in their endeavour to lower call stats by doing more OT.

For that, I've come closer than just acquaintance with my team leader Terasa. She's a caring leader that can be very nice at times. =)

Here's Jes, my 'neighbour' who sits next to me. She's a very optimistic, independent and approachable person. So much so that it's just so easy for me to ask her anything I don't know. Her patience must have been good, as I never recalled her barking back at me to check my notes instead of asking. Ha.

Here's Matthew. A friendly guy with a cool face. He never says no when I ask him for help. Perhaps he's too nice until the extent that he gets bullied. Not by me of course but someone else. Tsk tsk... I guess for him pouting is the best way to vent frustrations. Ha.

Here's Meiling. My impression of her is that she's a smart girl who's always so bubbly, cheerful and wacky. Her words never fail to make people smile. Hope you can find your Mr Right soon.

Here's weiming, a incredibly tall guy in my team. Don't by deceive by his looks. He's older than his looks. He's always vying for the highest call stats possible. Ha, guess I wasn't in the right mind to even challenge him the other time.

XiaoYong, don't give up! Always will remember you as the team's loudspeaker. Someone very open about personal things and optimistic about things in life. I believe the next girl you find will be a better one for you. Ha. Please keep believing~! (Saying that to myself too... >.<)

From here on, I will want to plan my time better. There's always so many meaningful things waiting for me to do. Just need to sort the priorities right.

It's time to choose my notebook. Deliberating between Toshiba/Fujitsu's notebook or Apple Macbook Pro Student Plan. Hmm...

Living Life The Way You can...

Watched this Japanese drama and was utterly touched by the story. It's based on a true story that happened in Japan. I'm astonished by the courage the victim demonstrated in fighting the disease and living life the best she can. She cannot choose to escape, but she chooses to live on and fight on instead of giving up whatever she has left.

 

In fact, it's not just another mindless show. I felt so much fortunate for having the health that many other people like her loses it to fate. The idea is to cherish whatever that we have now for we really don't know what is going on in future.

Do Something About It!

Feeling so broke at the moment. 21st birthdays are coming in a rush this month. For the next upcoming one I still haven't finish preparing for the present yet.

Attended an old friend's birthday event today. Was quite upset when you send a message to someone and not for the first time the person asked who you are. Am I so insignificant? Thinking back, it's been about 6 years since the last time I went to his house. 6 years seem like a long time and now here we are celebrating each's 21st birthdays.

Honestly, those were the memorable times when doing your best for studies was the only thing that we needed to be concerned on. Sharing foolish stories and tricks were one of the best times in the teenage life. But apparently, life has a way of making things change. Our social circle enlarges but not necessary that the larger your pool of friends is, the happier you'll get. I guess you get the idea...

I know computer engineering is something that I can pursue out of my interest. But I need to do something urgent about my pure laziness. I have to compete with many other foreigners whose knowledge of this area far exceeds mine. The competitiveness is real and I got to do something about it if I want to achieve honours. Had this thought because Christopher had just given me a reality check on that. I appreciate that.

I have so many unfinished business. Reading of books borrowed from library half completed, video making half completed, helping a friend in his website half-hearted. Oh gosh, how committed can I appear to be?

There seems to be something about me that I'll isolate myself from people occasionally. Not certain why it is so though. I sure seem to act very randomly according to my feelings and it seems that I have been confusing some of my friends because of that.

Happenings Around The World

Lately, God hasn't been too kind to the earthlings. First came the cyclone Nargis in Myanmar, thereafter the earthquake in Sichuan that killed over 240 000, not to mention millions of people who are left homeless.

I had thought that this year would probably be a grand year that marks China as a strong power in Asia as the organising nation for Olympics 2008. But the list of events of including the instigation of disturbance led by Dalai Lama has shown to affect China greatly. I still feel that the spirit of sports and politics shouldn't be intertwined in this manner... Nevertheless, China seems to be further victimized by the outbreak of disaster that follows. Now, the world weeps for China. It's indeed heart-rending to see the pictures of the citizens submitting to fate.

As compared to people who dearly cling on to life, I think we're much fortunate than them and it's not something to be taken forgranted. One day if ever Singapore ends up in a wreck, hopefully other nations will correspond to similar kind of assistance rendered also.

Outcome

Didn't get the course of my choice. I think like what she said, I should just take it as a blessing in disguise. -__-

Found this blog quite cute. http://mr-wolvie.blogspot.com/ Thought it was lame but the way the photos are organised, this figure is given so much life into it... Give that a thought, isn't all marketing strategies something that way? Like the hype into LG viewty or Apple Ipod touch?

Ran with my brother today night. Another of his crazy training regime.

1. Run every round below 1min 45sec for 6 rounds with about 1 min interval break.
2. Do pull-ups. (About 6)
3. Run another 3 more continuous rounds.
4. Standing broad jumps. (Too tired)

May not seem so much for many of you but for this 21 years old bones and untrained muscles of mine, I find it pretty tough.

Yihui got very excited about shopping today when I complemented his shoes. I was quite taken aback when just immediately when I talked to him about his shoes, he came over to my seat and elaborated more on it. He even mentioned going for shopping together for to look for shoes. Another shoe-fanatic guy eh?

It's time I should get a calendar at my working seat. 2 functions. Firstly, it is to mark off the days which I would not want to do overtime by plotting a prominent "OCCUPPIED" word on the calendar to ward off unwanted questions like "How about working another 2 more hours on this day..? Come on lah, help me a bit. I really need people." and etc. It's hard for me to say no. I'm just too nice, I mean I don't know how to reject people like that. And nope, I'm not telling who... Haha.

Secondly, it's about 1 month more to the end of contract~! Yeah. No more sickening customers yelling, complaining and nagging. It's really no easy feat to work there permanently.

My dad asked if I know someone by the name of "Lee" who's studying dentistry. I wondered how and why my dad asked about that. He said that he met up his primary school friend who's also a taxi driver today. He talked about his son's also working in Starhub. They live in Redhill. Oh, how coincident things can be~!

Getting there...

Desmond's already getting to count down to the end of the contract. It's still very long I feel. But I'm already longing for every moment I can take a break. I'm already above minimum expectation but I'm expected to do better for the team. They're all awards clinchers. I feel much obliged to keep that standard up. Stress~

Wei Xiang just had his 21st birthday. He booked a very spacious KTV room inclusive of a pool table, 4 long sofa couches, plentiful of snacks and alcohols to go with, so that we can really 'booze and binge'. Any party on that scale level would have invited a wide array of friends but just so happened that there's only IMOS friends and VS friends that he invited. Absolutely guys' party... =.="

The not so bad part is the karaoke system is really good. Initially, everyone was shy to grab the microphone for a demonstration of singing. The encouragement of alcohol soon sets in and everyone is in a really good mood to sing along. I must say Eugene's voice is really unique and beautiful. He's also able to catch the nuances of pitches and tunes which I find really impressive.

Got him a really expensive watch but to be shared with a great num ber of people as well. Hope he doesn't mind. =x It happens to be Lian's birthday too. Everyone's finally decided to get him a working shirt. After I start working, I realise everything about the adult world has got to do with money afterall. It's really a pragmatic world. Who says growing up in Singapore is easy anyway?

Got lost in NTU today for the school medical checkup. Referred to the letter that says issued by Student Services Centre so I thought it's there and damn it. It's actually the medical centre that's crammed into a corner above the semi-circle canteen that I had passed by...

Saw Sin Jian and Poo Hee. They're also taking computer engineering too. Mm, Sin Jian is still as weird. But quite sad for him that his long distance relationship didn't really work out. He told me he's more contactable via email than via his mobile? @_@

My computer is having downtime again. Will wish to reformat again... Hate it. I've tried detecting for spywares and malwares but nothing can be done. Just that it's very obvious that something is hogging onto the computer. Argh... (YELL)

Time doesn't stand still

Yes, it doesn't. Another 2 more months or so I'll be leaving the company. I will miss Teresa for all the guidance given, Jagat, Vivian and Weiming for all the good advice they have given to me and Jes for all the troublesome questions I asked. Will miss Edith, Frank and the other colleagues for always being there... for supper and other things else of course. Ha. It's a bit early to say all these but just felt that time really runs on very fast.

Spent $380 for air tickets to Bangkok and back. It's my first time to be onboard airplane. I'm so excited yet unnerved. I wonder how will the experience be. I have no idea what to expect for the difference between budget and national airlines. As usual, my parents nag at me again for not choosing national airline, for not taking guided tour and etc but then again, they wouldn't know anything about that either. I feel so inexperienced because when prompted for the kind of hotel to choose for, I honestly didn't know what to answer them. Hmm... I'm going to fly out to see the world... Whee~ Ha.

Helping Gabriel with the flash isn't an easy task. I feel like I've let him down on the expectations. I think it looks worse than what he expected... I will try my best to improve it further.

I'm missing her so much. It's heart-rending for me as I don't know how she actually feels about me. Is it even nearly the same as me or to her am I just another friend? I don't know. I think I'm going crazy~

Life Matters

There's 2 meanings to the titles. Both has a slight variation in its meaning, just as how you can choose to perceive and act on your future. Either you accept the way it is and take no action on it or take the chance to live your life as close as how you want it to be. =)

Met a cranky but nice person lately. bubbly and cheerful...

Had a long series of camwhoring shots with my close friends jian yuan and choon pei lately.

  

For the full set to be revealed on facebook. =) Warning: these shots do not portray the true nature of the participants in the photographs. They're enhanced for the purpose of illustrating effects. The participants are of intelligent, demure, cultured and good-natured character. Ha.

Still another 2 and a half months more. Still far away to start counting down for. My mum promised to take me to Singapore Flyer on 6 April. But it seems like there's no one who can/wants to swap shift with me... Sad...

Read a love story on http://www.goodybooks.com/ibelieveyou.htm. It's a typical Singaporean love story but the theme's on a bittersweet romance that happens in everyday life. Quite a touching one I feel. Does such things actually happen in life?

I've been keeping so many secrets for so many people. Feel like bursting out somehow.

Not everyone is very sure on their future. Spent time out with Jensen, Daryl and Hengyi to buy Jensen's birthday presents yesterday. From the discussions, I could tell that it's at a junction whereby there's a decision to be made that confirms the turning point of your life after graduating from university. I have an idea what I want to do, just not sure what I can be.

There are some things I simply don't believe in second chances. Making amends to faults created on purpose seems even atrociously dumb.

Went to CNB Medical Centre for medical review. Total waste of time. The medics don't even have medical report for my service injury. I'm so frustrated about the processes for such review. It's been more than 3 months and nothing is done. I doubt that the claims can even be processed.

When I arrived at the medical centre I waited for more than 2 hours and I'm told that actually I don't have to see the MO. WTH?!? Am I just there so that my presence will remind them that they need to pass my report over to the relevant personnels? I insists to speak to the MO but the MO to my surprise is a more disgusting person. He didn't even raise his head to look when I speak. That's basic mannerism that the MO didn't possess. When I asked him regarding the PES status and claims, he says "so what do you want?"

That implies a lot. Firstly, does he mean that I want to "chao geng" and is just one of the many there to downgrade? Secondly, as a doctor, he's not paying any attention to what the patient is saying by dismissing the topics I wanted to raise before I even finish saying it. So what if he's a captain, that attitude is unbelievably poor and downright detestable. I should have gotten his name before I left that room. Before I left, he left before me and say "if there's nothing else, please wait outside" in a cold and aloof manner. I wasn't even done with my doubts. I think I had more after I left. I should have slammed the door harder than I did. There was no check up done, no report to submit to them... I wonder what was the taxi money I spent to reach that place for!

I received a email for this:

Generation-ACTS Club is hosting a SENIOR-JUNIOR NETWORKING SESSION for all incoming University freshmen on 25^th March, 7.30pm to 9.30pm, at NTU Alumni Club at One-North (a short 10min walk from Buona Vista mrt), & we want to invite YOU!

You’ll get to meet friendly seniors and other potential freshmen from all Universities in Singapore (NUS, NTU, SMU, SIM, …). The seniors will share with you everything you need to know about courses & varsity life, good (& not so good) campus food & hangouts (including all the unofficial stuff that the school won’t tell u!)… The whole idea of this event is to help freshmen like yourself clear any doubts that you and your friends may still have, before you guys make your big choice... As your seniors, we hope to help you to explore, integrate into, and make the most of your varsity life!

Go to http://matric2008.blogspot.com/ to register for this one-time only Networking Session! If you have friends who are interested and entering University this year, get them to register too! Places are very limited (since there’re so many freshmen in Singapore!), so register ASAP to confirm your place! And here’s the best part – the networking session is free! :D Light snacks & refreshments will be provided too, so… come and mingle with us!

Do keep in touch! Feel free to ask me any questions about varsity life… You can contact me at 90105905 / zephyr.song@hotmail.com :)

anyone interested?

Hi, everyone. It's been a long while since I've been putting up a post.

Got feedback from Wei Yen that actually he's one of the avid blog readers just that I've not been updating that often.

Work's still the same every day. Helping customers with their problems has become part and parcel of my life at this phase of life. It seems like comparing work and studying, the latter is an option I can focus more at this point of time. Not that working is boring to me, but it seems like if I were without those good friends I have at the workplace, work seems to be monotonous without them. =x That's as good as saying I miss them, opps.

Met up with Choon Pei and Jian Yuan for dinner. Confirmed our oversea trip to Hong Kong. Some destinations that we are going to cover would be Disneyland Hong Kong, Outram Park and Madame Tussad's museum. More to follow soon. This implies that I would have to do more OT to cover up for the trip =x

I think promises should not be delivered if they cannot be fulfilled. It's pointless I feel. For the clubbing trip yesterday, only Wei Yen, Jonathan and me went. It's almost to a point whereby it's going to be cancelled. It just takes another person to hesitate. Fortunately, it did not happen.

Phuture's so packed with guys that's just released from the clutches of BMT trainers. MOS is nonetheless the same situation. Tasted Long Island Tea @ Iguana. It's realli very refreshing, much above my expectation for that. Initially, I thought it's a very bitter drink but I was proved wrong. Jonathan challenged me to drink it fast and I think I got high in quite a short time. It's not just me, I must say. Not before long, we're doing lame and stupid stuff already. Toured Fort Canning Hill in the wee hours of morning. But I must say that it's really cool to take a night stroll out in the trees.

Teresa's getting more hysterical recently. She's been making weird cat noises when she thinks that no one will notice. I was startled the first time round. It's convincing and much different to what you will expect from a leader. Lol. Marriage makes people go weird probably.

I'll be having my medical review at CNB tomorrow. That will probably determines my PES status for re-service and IPPT eligibility for sure. Mm, let's see how things will turn out. I still haven't forget about my injury claims, just that I'm quite sure SAF will not be quick about such things. I think I can forget about claiming anything...seriously.

Another Lazy Day At Home

Off day on Thursday, got a few tasks to do. Very lazy to move at all. Supposed to fill up CPF Medishield top-up form, repair watch and running. Just feel like rotting at home.

In a bad state lately. I think I'm losing voice, having dry skin, hair and eyes. Am I lacking vitamin C?

I wonder if there's a problem being just good friends with girls. Either one side will think that there's something just beyond friendship. Another thing I should keep in mind of...

Saw another faker lately. If there's something that's not from within the heart, then don't promise anything. Just hope that it will fade away from my life.

<(~@~)> says "hi" to all, off to slack...

21st Birthday cum Chinese New Year

I wouldn't say that my birthday party this year is large scale, but it's the first time I've had so many friends celebrating for me. I'm quite touched actually. When asked to give a speech, I'm seriously loss for words, I should have prepared a speech on what to say. In the end, I gave just a general speech. Furthermore, not everyone can squeeze in the room to listen. =x

I would like to thank these people for helping out and attending my birthday party: 

Jian Yuan
Choon Pei
Esmond
Felicia
Jeremy Foo
Alex
Han Sui
Fiona
Wei Quan
Li Sie
Zhe Han
Yan Qiao
Eng Joo & Sue Ann
Teck Guan
Adrian
Edith
Wei Yen
Jonathan Phang
Frank Oh
Christopher
Daryl
Hengyi
Jeremy Tay
Jensen
Ervin
Alan Teo
Kai Pin
Francis
Maurice
Alan Lim
You Shen
Sylvestor Quah
Lian Yi Xiang
Hui Chuan
Eugene Koh
Ryan
Sebastian
Maximilian
Aloysius Ho

Thanks all for making this party/chalet possible. Had a fun time p utting up all the decorations with Jian Yuan and Choon Pei. With all the busy schedules you have, I'm thankful for the time you take to buy those and help out. I hope Choon Pei didn't suffer too greatly for her test. =x

My family eventually went down for my chalet. I tried asking my mum days before but she always gave that irritated look when I asked her to help with something I just thought that perhaps she just couldn't be bothered with things like that. Felt a bit left out if the only people celebrating with me are purely my friends.

My cool marist friends attended my party too. I had only asked a few individually. In fact, I felt a bit embarrased when some came to support when I didn't ask them personally. So sorry about that. Christopher came very early and I tried my best to entertain him. Hope he wasn't too bored at the place. I almost couldn't recognise Alan until he smiled and I could then recognise from that distinct expression. Lol. Jeremy's getting thinner and thinner... Looks like I should continue to watch my diet too.

Most of my friends think that the cake smashing session will probably be carried out with the friends that know me for a very long time. Apparently not. Ha, I was being smashed by Wei Yen, Frank and Jonathan. These 3 are probably one of the latest friends I met at work. Lol. I just regret not having to smash back at Jonathan and Frank. Argh~ Revenge!

Anyway, it was quite a coincidence for Frank's friend to be staying next unit to me. He ended up visiting both without having to run both sides. I didn't know who were sleeping inside and I though it's kind of awkward when I returned the chair I loaned in the morning. Saw many couples hugging together on bed. So envious, ha.

I was quite shag on the 3rd. But I still got Karin's baby Caden's one  mo nth anniversary and Aloysius's birthday to attend. Still suffering from the overdose of alcohol that was imposed to me by Eng Joo. I can tell that they have softened a lot. If in the past, I would not be able to wake up in time for checking out. Haha.

Aloysius had his birthday celebration at his aunt's place. There's a large area for BBQ pit at the open areas of the condominium. I don't know why but I don't really seem to enjoy my time there. Initially I thought I was the only one feeling bored but when I see my friends also staring at the watch consistently, I asked them how the birthday party was. I'm glad I wasn't the only one feeling so bored.

The kind of things that were played at the place seemed to be inappropriate. The security guard visited Aloysius a couple of times when they played flour and it was scattered all around the flour especially at the swimming pool. Another part was when they smash the 3 kg cake at each other the security guard came over to visit again. I pity those people who have to clean up the places. It was simply messy. Ha.

Chinese new year day 1 have always been the most boring days of my life. It's not because of the praying session at temple but more to being stuck one whole day in my uncle's house with nobody there to talk with. The other relatives go other places for house visiting only my family is boring enough to stick there the entire day before having dinner together. I also notice that this year there seems to be a shrink in ang pao. Perhaps it's due to the mass inflation of goods?

Another photo taken out of boredom...

Hope to receive more ang pao today and the following days of CNY.

Starhub Memories

A few things happened at work last week.

Due to unforeseen circumstances, Frank and John stopped their work later than us. Meiling rushed the rest to take the company shuttle bus out first. I hesitated for a while before following her. I think that really was a bad move made. John and Frank were very pissed when they came down and realised no one waited for them.

I think if I were them, I'll feel as pissed too. Although now, they're not angry about that anymore, I feel that it's something that's always there in their mind if ever they're going to trust us back. We used to be a close clique that sticks together for lunch, for going home etc.

I've gotten the pictures from Cirong's birthday and Jan's birthday already. Here they are. See how excited Jan looks in the picture. That also reminds me that Sebastian, Melvin and Swee Kuan will no longer be working with the team soon in February. Willie, the team leader is no longer with the team also. I'm extra in the picture, I'm not in the team either. Haha.

That photo is one she took with TJC school mates as a whole. I think the design of the cake is nice. Well, there's a few shots on that before her face was smashed onto it. Ha. Cousin Karin is sponsoring me with a cake. I wonder how's mine look like.

Next week's into the OJT phase. I hope I can cope well. I think I can't remember so many things at one go. I have to keep reiterate the steps before I can be fully familiar with the steps. The rest of my training team people don't seem so worried.

I've bought all the clothes I need for Chinese New Year already. The rest of the stuff to bother is about the planning for my birthday chalet which is coming real soon. Need to get at least the catering settled first. I think I'll be able to accommodate all the guests in the chalet since not all will be in the room throughout. Esmond agreed to help me out with the decoration and photography while Choon Pei agreed to help me out with the planning and making of jellies. Jian Yuan agreed to accompany me to shop for the miscellaneous things that I need for the chalet. So glad I have a bunch of friends to rely on for that.

Birthday Celebration Notice

Till now, I have yet to receive the pictures from Cirong's birthday. Probably take ages to come... Haha.

Hey people, I've booked a chalet on 1st Feb to 3 Feb for my birthday party. All are welcome. It's at Downtown East. BBQ will be available too! Please come down with your presents, thank you. (Joking) I book via Internet Banking so the lot number will only be sent to me later on.

One thing about the date is that my birthday is not 1st, it's on the 6th but it's Chinese new year eve so having it earlier will be the best I think.

I'm asked by Edith to think up of a wishlist for my 21st birthday but I haven't got one yet. Perhaps I'll think through again before posting it. Ha.

I'm back to being forgetful again. Slept without shutting the windows in my room that's by the corridor. As usual, I'm given a dressing-down by dad. Grr...

'Heroes' season 1 is so exciting. I'm about to finish watching it but was worried about the same thrill for season 2. I've heard from Ronald that it's a failure compared to season 1. Oh man~

I'm happy that I got another web design assignment through a friend, Jeffrey. The dilemma is how much am I supposed to charge him. His budget is not that high though. But I need time and lots of thinking to do one...

Daryl looks kind of stress lately with his job. It's very highly paid and it's demanding too. $10 an hour. Interested party can find him. Haha.

Life in Haw Par Centre under training is fun. At times, lessons can be boring but it's all very applicable to the situations that I'm about to face in the job later on. It's unlike any Physics or Chemistry whereby I really do not see myself doing that in the future. Besides, my course-mates are all very spontaneous and fun people. Really enjoyed the times with them.

Jonathan was always very quiet in the call centre but didn't expect him to be such a joker. Of course for every joker, there's always someone cynical to pour cold water to him and that's Ronald. Frank and Meiling are two interesting people whom I can exactly figure out their character exactly. Franklin, being the youngest, flirts with almost any woman. I won't be surprised if he flirts with Casina. Yeow Kheng can be so shy that he can blush when a girl asks him something. =x But the fun times will soon be over and it'll be back to the boring and repetitive job again. Sigh...

Life Observations

Went to Cirong's early birthday celebration cum party for her departure to Holland soon. The way there reminds me of the times I went back for camp. It's almost the same path. It's weird that she wanted glamour to be the theme for chalet. When I reach Tanah Merah, there were many others dress pretty well too. I had guessed that they were attending her birthday party too but just couldn't be too sure. I think she's got many friends from different age groups. Ha.

Went with Esmond only. Jian Yuan didn't go. =( I had told him about the party way in advance... Anyway, I chose to buy a watch for her. I think it's pretty nice but doubt she'll have the chance to wear it before she leaves overseas. There's tonnes of presents gathered in the chalet room when I entered.

I felt 'exclusive' in a different sense when I was kept out of loop of Cirong's mysterious friend called 'Alvin'. Literally, Ping Aik, Zhiren and Jee Siang rushed down to the porch to see who that guy is. When asked about him, only a hesitant reply that he's just a friend. It's not that I'm nosy or anything. Just that I felt that if I were to be asked to as part of the class to go for the party, I shouldn't be kept in the dark of the things that's going on. Esmond's not aware of the situation too but he persistently asked them only to be fed with more annoyed responses. I don't want to end up in the same state as him so I chose to remain quiet about that issue.

Everything about adulthood seems so complicated. I guess staying simple in life means you got to live with the limited choice that destiny offers you. Unless you want to empower yourself to be different from just another normal average person, you can't exactly choose your dream partner. That's life I think.

Work Updates

I wanted to change blog template for the new year but too busy to find another one I like.

Dyed and highlighted my hair for the new year. It's about $130 for that. Expensive right?

Congratulations to my cousin, Karin, who just gave birth to Caden on 5 Jan. Her baby weighs 3.6 kg. 0.6 kg more than me I think. I wonder what she's eating all these while. Haha. Thank goodness, both are blessed to be fine. =D

Went for the Starhub training on Monday. It's really a nice change to the stressful environment in Ayer Rajah call centre. The trainers at Haw Par Centre are much more interactive and approachable compared to people of similar seniority at call centre. However, there's test to be held on Friday. I hope I can pass it. Passing mark is 85 if I didn't listen wrongly.

I checked my payslip. I was actually underpaid. I had already called BGC and they promised to credit the amount into the next payslip. Hai...

Meiling actually wasn't angry at me for not changing shift with her. She was just not smiling and I mistook that for being pissed. Fortunately, I've got a chance to clarify that. I think I can identify girls from girl schools. There's a common pattern if you listen to them speak.

I actually don't know what to do or say to friends when they're in difficult family situations. 'Take care' wouldn't be an appropriate phrase to say because to me they're so casual and mean very little to whatever help that you can deliver to friends...

Goodbye 2007, Hello 2008

Thinking back about 2007, it wasn't really a good year I believe. There's many things that took nasty turns for many Singaporeans. Some examples of what I can think of is the rising cost of living. GST charges rose to 7% instead of 5% and taxi fares soar sky high. Also, the NKF saga was something not to be forgotten. It's a reminder to us all to be fully aware of donation scams for which the sum of money can be mainly pocketed to someone's riches.

For me, it's the year whereby I had 2 major injuries: fractured my little finger and permanently damaged my knee meniscus. It had made me feel so down. Everyone around me had to work so hard to help me a lot for the time when I'm down with injuries. Of course there are some who simply think that it's my way of escaping responsibilities. It made me see who my friends are and to appreciate their effort in relieving the pain in recovery. I sincerely thank everyone who were with me all these while.

For this year 2008, I hope to make positive impacts on people's lives. I learnt that life is not just about making oneself happy. It's not easy but I believe I can do it. I also want to become more thick-skinned to do the things I want to do and not get set back easily by disapproving people.

More updates regarding countdown celebration shall be posted later... Take care people.