cHeNg-XuN

2008-09-26T15:02:00.002+08:00

Stuck at home for these few days...

Expecting lots of work to do come next Monday...

Exam is oh-so-near...

Damn. Life gets so uninspiring sometimes.

2008-09-03T23:09:00.002+08:00

I remember way back when I was a kid,
You treated me just like how my parents did.
The care and concern that you showered on me,
Even a blind man would be able to see.

I remember once when my leg felt pain,
And my slippers had gotten some stains.
Without saying a word you carried me on your back,
That feeling I can't describe and I can't forget.

It was just a few months ago that you felt ill,
The cancer that ate into your life against your own will.
It reminded me of grandma and how she lost the fight,
Everyday I wish you could get out of this plight.

But you didn't and now you are gone,
I guess it's because grandma didn't want to be alone.
I know she is waiting to take your hand,
And bring you to a more peaceful land.

小叔, please rest in peace. And bless your wife and children with good health and luck.

Life will never be the same without you. It never will be.

2008-08-21T23:29:00.002+08:00

There are some things in life that you can get too much of.

And then, there are those other things which you can never get enough of.

But most times, it is just that one thing which you can never get.

So tired of hearing excuses. So tired of listening to complaints. So tired of understanding reasons.

NHSS rawks!

2008-07-28T22:05:00.002+08:00

Had a wonderful, splendid, memorable, eventful, fantastic....and the list just goes on and on...

Outing with the NHSS peeps (and Sean) last Saturday.

It was simply fun! And definitely the most successful gathering we had for a long, long time. Slightly more than 20 people turned up in total, and it was really a waste for those who couldn't make it.

My lord, it has been 10 years since everyone enrolled into NHSS. And damn, it's not even known as NHSS anymore!

How old have we gotten, eh?

At the end of every gathering like this, it just leaves me eagerly anticipating for the next.

And we are going to Kukop for a chalet in September! Looking forward to it!

You guys simply remain the best! *sMiLeZ*

Hello from Brisbane!

2008-07-15T21:18:00.003+08:00

As you have guessed it, yes, I am in Brisbane now!

So far, so good. I am not freezing to death as of yet. Haha!!

The weather's kinda strange, according to the people here. It's supposed to be winter, and very cold. But somehow, it gets a little warm in the morning.

Been stuck around Brisbane city most of the time, but there's actually pretty much to see.

Went to Movie World today! And yes, it's not exactly cheap at 69 Aussie dollars per entry. But lots of pictures taken though!

It's a little tough coming to terms with the 2-hour difference. Seems like after 4 days, I'm still a little stuck in the Singapore time.

The 1 shitty thing is that I'm getting fat. Damnit. Yeah, the food here isn't exactly cheap, but they come in pretty huge servings. I've been eating fries (or chips, that's what they call it here) for like 4 meals out of 5. Looks like I'm gonna stay off fries for quite some time when I'm back.

Yup, I'm loving it here in Brisbane. Life is much slower, the weather is much cooler. People are friendly, and the food...well, it gets a little boring sometimes but it's still quite manageable. I'm just a little surprised that I'm surviving without any rice for so long.

Alrighty, will post again something later this week if I get the chance to. Bert's graduation is tomorrow afternoon, going to the Australia Zoo (yup, the Steve Irwin one) on Thursday, and Lone Pines, which is a koala sanctuary on Friday.

I wanna hug a koala!!

But yeah, there are still some things that I miss in Singapore... =)

2008-07-09T22:52:00.002+08:00

Exams are...

O-V-E-R!!

And Brisbane is about 48 hours away.

I don't know why, but this feeling apprehension always fills me before I go overseas.

But it's gonna be fun. And most definitely burn a hole in the pocket.

2008-07-07T01:31:00.001+08:00

How do you know, without asking...

How important you are, to someone...

Who is important to you?

2008-07-01T22:12:00.001+08:00

They say all I needed was a little bit more sleep.

Well...

I guess that, maybe...

They might be just right.

2008-06-30T22:43:00.002+08:00

What is sleep when tiredness is all you feel?

What is money when you can't buy happiness and time?

What is education when you can never finish learning?

What is a job when it can't take you out of poverty?

What is a dream when you can never realize it?

What is the point of being second when no one ever remembers?

What is power when you can't earn respect?

What is love when you can't find someone to give your heart to?

What is life when it's the beginning of an end?

What is everything when you have nothing?

What am I...

if...

I don't have you?

2008-06-24T23:10:00.002+08:00

It's strange that I've been running quite often for the last few months.

Well...sometimes when you run, it seems like there's nothing that will be on your mind.

Perhaps that is why they call it "running away from your troubles"...

Back from Tioman

2008-06-23T22:23:00.002+08:00

I am now a qualified basic open water scuba diver!

Anyway, scuba diving is pretty fun. And Tioman is a pretty nice island.

I have to say I had some apprehensions before the trip. Could still remember struggling a little during the practical lessons at the swimming pool the week before.

But once in the open waters, everything just seemed to flow. It wasn't as difficult I thought it would be. And really, the world beneath these waters can be pretty amazing.

Marine life is simply fascinating! It's like watching Nat Geo right in front of your eyes, and you can almost touch everything!

It's a little pity that quite a few corals were already dead. Doesn't help when too many people dive at the same place. Hopefully, the waters will not be damaged further.

I especially like the sea anemone and the clown fish! Damn cute, can? You can place your palm about 10 centimetres away from the sea anemone (can't touch because it's poisonous) and sway left and right and watch the sea anemone move and the clown fish inside of it. Wah...really adorable! No wonder they chose Nemo to be a clown fish.

The sucker fish was also very cute! It looks like a mini-me shark, and sticks on to the oxygen tanks to feed off the dirt (or whatever) that's on the tanks. Kinda looks like it's hitching a ride, but actually it is not. There was one that swam past me and brushed against my cheek. Haha...took me by a little surprise.

There are a whole lot of other nice fishies swimming around. They seem quite nonchalant about the presence of humans in the water. I guess they have seem humans so often that they think nothing of us.

The biggest regret was not being able to find a sea turtle. Really wished I could see a Squirt-lookalike. But at least I managed to catch sight of a small stingray, which not many did. The way it swims around is damn cute too!

I thought I got much more than I expected out of this trip. The things that I saw, the experiences that I went through. Even the sights of the natives on the island and the villages and towns that our bus went past. Everything sets me thinking a lot.

Once in a while, it is really great to take a break, go far away from this hectic city life, and look at how people live their lives in other parts of the world. The smiles painted on their faces whenever they greet you, it can be so endearing.

And yeah, there are moments in this life when sometimes...just sometimes, you wish that the moment will last you very,very long...

2008-06-17T00:46:00.000+08:00

Impossible...

Really isn't nothing.

Happy Birthday to ME!

2008-06-08T23:28:00.002+08:00

I am 23!

Shit...I feel so old already.

Anyway, I don't seem to remember celebrating my birthday with so many people spread over so many days before.

Many thanks to my colleagues for the present! I absolutely dig Takashima vouchers! So many things that can be bought, and they have no expiry date! The mango cake from Secret Recipe was pretty good too!

Many thanks to my dearest mei, Peishan, Jinglin and Pearlie for having dinner at VivoCity on Thursday! The food was good, but it wasn't really about the food. The gathering was more important, ya?

How can I ever forget my best buddies from NHSS? Kenny, Yukun, Defang, Jiantong, Ann Ming, Geraldine, Sheena and Yingxin. And also the non-NHSS buddies, Wilfred, Sean and Dennis. You guys were fabulous! Everytime we go drinking, all of us should go together! Though I think all of us drank too much on Friday night. It's bad for health leh. But nonetheless, it was absolutely enjoyable and memorable! The next birthday is our dear Mr Shi Yukun. You better watch out!!

Last night's dinner at Bukit Batok wasn't that bad too. I can't remember when there were 9 of us who went out to eat zhi char together. Maybe we should not drink often and instead eat zhi char together! Hehz. *grinz*

The birthday itself, well, sadly I had to do project. Seems like I can never escape from any kind of form on my actual birthday. But it's quite alright though, because I rarely celebrate my birthdays. I mean, it's just a day to remind yourself you just got a year older.

But at least I was doing my project with Lirong and Wan Jun. Two great ladies. So it wasn't all too bad. And many many thanks to Miss Wan Jun for having dinner with me just now. Don't worry, carrying your lappie and accompanying you to shop wasn't a chore. *winkz*

And also to everyone who SMS-ed me or MSN-ed me, many thanks for all your birthday wishes!!

2008 is certainly beginning to become very memorable. *sMiLeZ*

2008-06-04T23:59:00.002+08:00

Funny...this analogy of drifting along in the sea and docking at the harbour.

I never quite understand how some of the people around me chose or are choosing to dock at the harbour while days are still pretty much early.

Afterall, it ain't that bad drifting a little out at sea for a while longer, right? To see more of the passing ships, ride a few more waves...

But come to think of it, there's nothing too bad about docking at the harbour too. Safe from the sharks, attacks from pirates, and almost impossible to capsize.

Well, it's not that I really love to be out drifting in the sea. But you have to be damn sure of which harbour you wanna dock at. And it's not as if harbours don't have the option to turn you away.

Maybe it has always been my secret desire to dock at one. Just maybe...

Gotta sleep.

Ciaoz.

McFly - Obviously

2008-05-28T23:53:00.002+08:00

I didn't know I used to like songs like these.

But hey, this is quite a nice one, though a little old.

The lyrics are pretty depressing, but it's sung in kind of a punk rock manner. The MV is quite amusing too, very much unlike what the lyrics are trying to say.

Oh well, but it really is sad when this "Obviously" happens to you, right?

2008-05-27T01:11:00.002+08:00

Feeling so damn pissed and moody today.

Or rather, yesterday, seeing that it's already past 12.

But somehow, things just sort of became better.

I don't know why...

Some things, some people...just have that ability.

2008-05-19T03:43:00.002+08:00

I feel...

So out of character.

It's like...

Something like that would never happen to me in the past.

I don't know...

How and why it happened.

It's as if...

You hated eating vegetables and out of a sudden you grew to like it.

Time...

Can really change so many things.

2007/2008 Barclays Premier League Champions!!

2008-05-12T23:44:00.002+08:00

Yes. That's Manchester United Football Club for you!!

21 May 2008.

Bring on Chelski! And John Terry better be fully fit for the final. In case they provide some excuse that their best centre-back is injured or not fully fit if they lose.

C'mon Red Devils! There isn't a better team this season in England or Europe! Makes up for all the lost that England did not qualify for Euro 2008.

Well, not as if it will matter. England will not win Euro 2008 with Steve McClown in charge, and the English players in Manchester United can get an extra month of rest anyway.

2008-05-11T21:03:00.002+08:00

Tung Lok Seafood really is pretty good.

I thought the prices were a little exorbitant initially, but after the visit I thought the money paid was quite worth the value.

Well, it always helps when you go earlier during ala carte buffets. At least you are served much faster as compared when the whole dinner crowd is in.

Service was pretty good too. Not too much complaints.

Next up, looking forward to the BBQ gathering with my secondary school friends this coming Saturday at West Coast Park. Been quite some time since I saw a few of them.

2008-04-26T02:01:00.002+08:00

I just don't know why...

I can't look you in the eye.

It sets my pulse racing that little bit faster...

Though it doesn't necessarily means something better.

2008-04-22T00:04:00.002+08:00

This road to redemption is...

So long...

So tiring...

Seemingly endless.

I don't know...

If I will ever get to the end...

Or get any rewards out of it.

Maybe...

Just maybe...

I cannot do it on my own.

And I always thought I could.

2008-04-06T01:23:00.002+08:00

Damn it lah.

I seriously cannot stand examinations.

I am just not a mugger, nor is my brain like a computer hard disk that has 200 gigabytes of storage space.

Why can't they just give us projects? Duhz...

everytime I try to talk to you, I get tongue-tied, turns out, everything I say to you, turns out wrong and never turns out right

2008-03-28T00:45:00.001+08:00

This power that is holding on to me...

I just can't break free.

Damn it.

2008-03-22T03:08:00.001+08:00

It is a strange feeling to have...

And it is been a long, long time since I last felt this way...

卓義峰 - 蝴蝶結

2008-03-14T23:38:00.001+08:00

Tell me that this guy is not good...

What the hell man, he got a voice to die for!!

Man, am I just f**king impressed with him every single time he sings...

张韶涵 - 亲爱的那不是爱情

2008-03-09T00:45:00.003+08:00

教室里那台风琴叮咚叮咚叮咛

像你告白的声音动作一直很轻

微笑看你送完信转身离开的背影

喜欢你字迹清秀的关心

那温热的牛奶瓶在我手中握紧

有你在的地方我总感觉很窝心

日子像旋转木马在脑海里转不停

出现那些你对我好的场景

你说过牵了手就算约定但亲爱的那并不是爱情

就像来不及许愿的流星再怎么美丽也只能是曾经

太美的承诺因为太年轻但亲爱的那并不是爱情

就像是精灵住错了森林那爱情错的很透明

那温热的牛奶瓶在我手中握紧

有你在的地方我总感觉很窝心

日子像旋转木马在脑海里转不停

出现那些你对我好的场景

你说过牵了手就算约定但亲爱的那并不是爱情

就像来不及许愿的流星再怎么美丽也只能是曾经

太美的承诺因为太年轻但亲爱的那并不是爱情

就像是精灵住错了森林那爱情错的很透明

太美的承诺因为太年轻但亲爱的那并不是爱情

就像是精灵住错了森林那爱情错的很透明

-------------------------------------------------

This song is just damn nice lah. If I got the spare cash, I will definitely go watch her concert.

Sighx...money. You can never get enough of it sometimes...

2008-03-09T00:18:00.002+08:00

It was a day when everything that could possibly go wrong, went wrong.

There were quite a few positives that were taken from the whole day though.

Dragonboating is pretty fun. But fun only as a recreational sport (for me).

Although it has proven that to have any amount of success of any kind in sport, the only way is train hard, work hard.

Feels like disappearing from this world for a while.

Just a little while...

2008-02-28T00:30:00.002+08:00

Change...

Is it always for the better?

Or does it sometimes turn out to be much worse than you would have expected?

How do you judge the worth of turning yourself into someone you are not?

How do you know if someone is so important you behave not the way that you should?

Judgements, measurements, perceptions...

They are all so tricky. So illogical sometimes.

You know what, I damn hate the leap year. No offence to all those who celebrate their birthdays only once every four years, but it means I have to work for one extra day this freaking year.

2008-02-14T22:24:00.002+08:00

I...

Feel like I have fell into a deep hole...

Which I really don't know how to get myself out from.

What the hell's wrong, man?

Damnit, my brain seriously needs to work something out...

2008-01-19T22:18:00.000+08:00

You know, what they say about life...

Never, ever, make the same bloody mistake twice.

And I'm damn sure I would not make a similar mistake again. It is just that, 20 years down the road, when I look back at my own life, I wonder if I will ever regret the decisions I had made.

Oh well...life...

It is so complicated.

2008-01-16T23:59:00.000+08:00

Damn Blogger.

The loading speed can be so freaking slow sometimes.

Anyway, just a short blog before I hit the pillow. Gosh, I am bloody tired.

Oh well, when was the last day when I wasn't tired?

Back to the point. School has resumed for more than a week. And no doubt this module, Asian Media and Global Communication, is an interesting one. It helps when the lecturers are very much well-versed in their knowledge and have many interesting videos to share.

But what is not so helpful is this: imagine having 8 lectures spreaded over 2 weeks. And the next thing you know, there is a test that consists 50% of the marks of the whole module, with the other half taken up by an essay assignment of 2,000 words due in another 2 weeks.

Alright, I won't bitch about the essay cause I don't really think it is that bad. But how the hell do you sit for a test that takes up half of your total marks for the module after only 2 weeks of lecture?

What's worse, normal exams usually takes up 60% of the total marks. But normally you get at least a month of learning before taking the exam.

Balls to you if you tell me it's only a 10% difference. Yes, it's ONLY 10%, but 2 weeks more makes a bloody lot of difference!

Sighx...and it's not like the amount of work in my job is getting any lesser. I need to get a "Overworked and Underpaid" tie to wear soon.

Looking forward to the end of Thursday. Going on leave on Friday and Monday in preparation for the 50% test. Really hope to do well, and really hope that my table will not be swamped with documents when I go back to work on Tuesday.

Ok, I need to sleep. Sometimes, I feel I'm deprived of all the basic human needs.

*it is not because I remember, it is because I can't forget*

2008

2008-01-02T23:21:00.000+08:00

It is a new year already.

And I am damn amazed how fast everything is happening.

Life just goes on and on, even though a lot of memories of the past seemed only like yesterday.

It is so hard to believe that I am already 22, going to 23 in less than 6 months. The initial fear of stepping into the working society still lingers now and then.

Life is starting to come up with different priorities and responsibilities. The journey to achieving some can be really fruitful, while the road to the end of others seemed really arduous.

Everyone seems to have wishes and resolutions for every new year. Of course, I didn't forget to extend my best wishes to those friends who sent me their blessings.

I do have my own wish list, though whether they are realistic or will come true, that's another matter altogether:

1) Do well in my studies.

2) More rest time.

3) Lighter workload. (getting too much work to handle recently. It's getting inhumane)

4) More rest time.

5) Higher pay! (though I think my pay now isn't all that bad now)

6) More rest time.

7) Extension of social circle. (I'm not begrudging my friends, but you know, knowing more people increases the chance of [see next point]...)

8) Finding a girlfriend. (note: I am not desperate. I can do without one for the foreseeable future, but I suppose it won't really hurt to have one, right?)

9) More rest time.

10) Getting into a better shape. (instead of getting into a round one)

11) More rest time.

I am pretty reasonable, ain't I?

Christmas

2007-12-25T22:53:00.000+08:00

Merry Christmas to everyone!

Hopefully, everyone had a great day. Not like mine, which was spent watching TV, surfing the Net and cooking instant noodles for dinner.

Well, Christmas don't really mean much to me anyway.

Anyway, many thanks to all the people who had given me cards and/or gifts for Christmas. Fully appreciate it, no matter the gifts are big or small. Like I always say, it's the thought that counts.

Christmas Eve this year seems pretty muted for me. It was spent playing pool with Sean and Yukun. Not that I wasn't having any fun playing pool. Hmm, at least it's something I have not done before on a Christmas Eve.

I remembered Defang once said during one of our "Christmas/New Year Eve 4/2 and 4/3 gathering" that why he had to spend every Christmas Eve with us guys. It was in a joking manner, of course. But somehow, it did make some sense at that time.

I mean, it's really quite sad that a bunch of guys are spending their Christmas and New Year Eves every year with each other, right?

But now, it has changed. I can't quite remember when was the last time a large group of us had a gathering on Christmas or New Year Eve. What seemed like an annual event that was pretty much taken for granted back then, I do miss quite a bit now.

I suppose this is life, when everyone grows to have different priorities. And, it is indeed important for everyone to prioritise.

Strange that when people are young, they yearn to grow up so that they can do many other things. But after growing up, they look back at the younger years and wished they were back in those times.

But well, I'm looking forward to 2008. Seems like it's going to be quite eventful.

Happy New Year to everyone!

2007-12-17T23:03:00.000+08:00

If you ask me, it is so much better to be physically tired than mentally tired.

Every single thing is starting to make me so weary. Work, studies, ming boggling issues...

It seems pretty strange, but most of the time spent in the Army seems to be the least stress-free.

I do miss the times when everyone would sit together in the bunk or office and just talked about anything and everything till late. One vivid memory was there was once Kah Sheng, Kok Chuan, Weiliang and I sat together and chit chatted until almost 3am, when we had to get ready by 7am for a morning run.

Work can get really boring when everyone is immersed in their work, wanting to finish everything and go home on time. Interaction seems to be a bare minimum, only used when work matters are concerned.

I don't know, but maybe I am afraid of loneliness sometimes. Much as I can't bring myself to admit that. The moments of solitude allows me to think about a lot of stuff, but not being able to find the right person to convey some thoughts and/or feelings can make one feel really empty.

I must be the biggest oxymoron around the people I know. I have friends often coming to me, asking for opinions on stuff. But yet, when faced with similar situations, I can never bring myself to do exactly the same opinion that I gave them.

I preach to others the importance of staying optimistic, on how looking at the better side of things can make life much happie. Yet, almost everything that I do smacks of pessimism.

I thought of telling them they are the most important friends in my life. I wanted to tell her how she seems to make my life alive. But things like that are never likely to come out from my mouth.

Isn't it weird to lead a life like that? Making everything seem difficult.

Maybe that's why I feel so tired.

Oh well...I guess all I need now is sleep. It helps to drain the thoughts. And the heavy head is close to driving me nuts.

perspective. it is so bloody hard to define this word.

2007-12-13T01:08:00.000+08:00

Strange that I've been blogging so often recently huh?

I can't quite remember when was the last time I blogged almost on a daily basis. Maybe during my poly days, when times were more slack.

Got a plesant surprise when I got home just a few moments ago. My first (and probably only) Christmas card for the year! Many thanks to Jingyi! It's pretty touching that you still remember my address. Will send you a Christmas card soon too!

Had dinner at White Dog Cafe at VivoCity just now. Price isn't exactly too cheap, but the food isn't too bad actually. I like the calamari especially. Very crispy! Should try if you do get the chance, though it's almost $7 for 7 pieces. But worth it!

I don't know why, but after playing pool for so long, I still kinda suck. Getting really frustrated sometimes. I just can't understand why I can never ever fully concentrate on a game properly. Don't know what's going on in my mind sometimes. About time to stop coming up with excuses...

2007 is going to come to an end. It's fast. Really fast. So many things happened, some rather memorable, some more than forgettable. I don't know if 2008 will be a better year. I certainly hope that it will. And I'm really trying very hard to enjoy and be happy with whatever I have in my life now.

Funny huh? That I even have to try to enjoy and be happy...

Oh well...never mind about that. It's about time to go to bed.

Falling asleep can be s difficult sometimes...

2007-12-11T23:44:00.000+08:00

A cold, cold rainy night.

It doesn't get lonelier on nights like these, do they?

I'm trying very hard to convince myself to sleep now. You know, rather than spending the time rolling about in your bed struggling to sleep, the time can be better used for other things.

Only when you wake up in the morning then you start regretting knocking out at 1am.

Well, I suppose that's part of life.

Never mind, I shall sleep early. Haven't had much of it lately anyway.

First, I need a breather though. To clear all those thoughts from my head. To stop all those things running in my mind.

Damn, I really hate life sometimes...

2007-12-09T04:50:00.000+08:00

This must be one of the more horrific days I've had for quite some time.

First, I woke up late for lessons. No one could get through to my mobile even though I did not off my handphone. It was so infuriating for me, and I believe for my group mates too.

A very lucky thing that we were one of the last few groups to present. That gave me ample time to reach school and settle down before we had our presentation after the lunch break. I don't know what would be the likely consequences if I failed to make it to the presentation due to carelessness on my part.

On a slightly better note, project is going on pretty fine. Everyone has their few worries here and there, but I am of the belief that everything is going pretty much okay, and we only need to fine-tune certain areas to make it a very much decent research proposal.

Met up with Adam, Chris, Clarence, Daniel, Jethro and Shifa in town after class. It has been a really long time since we guys had the opportunity to gather. A pity that Jethro had to leave slightly earlier. It was so much fun hanging around with these guys, because for sure, you know that verbal entertainment is something that will never be shorn of during these meetings.

I'm not sure when we would be able to meet up in such a group again, hopefully it will be soon. And good luck to Chris too, who is going to leave for the US of A pretty soon for an exchange programme. We'll miss you and hope you'll come back soon. In the meanwhile, don't go around and have too many of a certain excapade yah? Hahaha!

I wonder sometimes why I can get so unlucky. As I was fetching my sister home from Woodlands just now, the front right tyre burst while I was on BKE.

Damnit. I really can't understand the kind of luck I have sometimes. It was fortunate that few cars are out at this hour, and that I was on the left lane, making it much easier to move to the road shoulder.

I feel bad about having to make my parents come down specially to change the tyre. Sighx. It is such a traumatic experience that I will never want to go through again.

And after all these shite, I am getting damn tired. Supposed to go for my company's dragonboat training later, bu I guess I'll be too tired to go. It makes me feel bad once again that I have to go back on my obligations towards other people.

Hopefully the rest of the day will be a good one. Sometimes, I really think I am due some luck. I don't mind being the sole winner of the next Chinese New Year Ang Bao Toto draw Group 1 winner. *winkz*

*feelings are so hard to explain sometimes. they just come without you knowing, without you wanting.*

Shaggelicious. Or Shackelicious?

2007-12-06T00:08:00.000+08:00

Trembling eyebags. Symptons of nausea. Constant yawning. Teary eyes.

Yes, dude. I am SERIOUSLY tired. Shagged. Shacked. Whatever.

I truly admire friends, and anyone, who are able to juggle work full-time and still excel in their part-time studies.

Man, this shit is seriously tough and demanding. I mean, I knew it was going to be a bumpy ride, but it somehow feels like you're driving, and halfway you meet a 10-metre wide canal seperating you from the other side of the road.

Get what I mean? Erm...ok, I think most of you don't. Never mind.

Anyway, bottomline is, it is bloody tough.

At least it won't last that long, provided I get through my degree without any glitches. Which I'm sure isn't too difficult, since my main priority now is my studies, though it's only part-time compared to my job, which is full-time.

But well, to my classmates and friends who are in a similar situation, let's all work hard. Get our degrees and go on to have wonderful careers!

To my other friends in NUS, NTU etc., I know you all are smart enough lah. No need my encouragement, you will be sensible enough to work hard. Hehz. In fact, you might wanna let me some of your brain cells so that I might do better for my exams.

Ok, I'm really tired. So I'm gonna take an earlier rest. Sleep is starting to become a privilege more than an entitlement. This is the point when you realise that, life, do SUCK sometimes. *sighx*

Take care everyone! Till the next time!

2007-12-02T23:21:00.000+08:00

Life has been hectic pretty lately.

Work, studies and more work and studies. But at least it seems fulfilling.

I like going to school, for a variety of reasons. I don't like work as much though, but there really isn't much of an option but to get used to it.

It may be hectic, but I'm kind of enjoying much of the happenings nowadays. I don't know why, but at least I think I feel happier than I am for quite a number of years.

Again, it is for a variety of reasons. Of which I don't think I would like to elaborate. There are so many things I like to keep to myself, just for me to know. *sMiLeZ*

It's going to be the end of 2007. So many things are coming up. Christmas (much as it doesn't hold much relevance to me), Chinese New Year, moving house...

I get the feeling that 2008 will be over as quickly as this year. Hopefully, I'm wrong.

Time to log off and go to sleep. The singular thing I hate in my life now is that I seem to have lesser and lesser time to sleep.

I miss those lazy days!

2007-11-16T19:46:00.000+08:00

Today was my last day of work at Prudential.

It was only a temporary job, and in terms of experience I wouldn't say it was a great deal.

But I was glad that, despite my initail skepticism, I took up the offer and stayed until a permanent job offer came along.

Everyone in the office had been really nice to me. Everything that I wasn't too sure about, they would be more than willing to help me out. And I was given a fair amount of work to occupy my time.

In terms of office politics, there aren't as much as compared to even the SAF.

Perhaps one day, I might go back. After some proper job experience and getting my degree. But certainly in a different position.

Yeah, I do wish that one day, that opportunity would come by.

F.I.R. - 月牙灣

2007-11-13T21:44:00.000+08:00

敦煌天空的沙粒带着我们的记忆

我从半路看回去这秦关漫漫好蜿踞

梦想穿过了西域包含了多少的禅意

爱情像一本游记我会找寻它的密语

看月牙湾下的泪光在丝路之上被遗忘

是谁的心啊孤单地留下

他还好吗我多想爱他

那永恒的泪凝固那一句话

也许可能蒸发

是谁的爱啊比泪水坚强

轻声呼唤就让我融化

每一滴雨水演化成我翅膀

向着我爱的人追吧

梦想穿过了西域包含了多少的禅意

爱情像一本游记我会找寻它的密语

看月牙湾下的泪光在丝路之上被遗忘

是谁的心啊孤单地留下

他还好吗我多想爱他

那永恒的泪凝固那一句话

也许可能蒸发

是谁的爱啊比泪水坚强

轻声呼唤就让我融化

每一滴雨水演化成我翅膀

向着我爱的人追吧

是谁的心啊孤单地留下

他还好吗我多想爱他

那永恒的泪凝固那一句话

也许可能蒸发

是谁的爱啊比泪水坚强

轻声呼唤就让我融化

每一滴雨水演化成我翅膀

向着我爱的人追吧

*******

This is such a great song by F.I.R. Somehow, a tinge of sadness runs through me when I listen to this song.

Without a doubt, they are my favourite chinese band right now, and I can't wait for them to come to Singapore for a concert.

And my, as always, Faye looks ever mesmerizing, especially when she sings. Absolutely gorgeous!

2007-11-12T23:39:00.000+08:00

Good times are certainly coming ahead.

This afternoon ended with my first and last day of exams. Yay! It really is much less pressuring to take one module at a go, and definitely more manageable when you have work commitments. I won't say that I wold definitely do well for the paper, but at least I think I surely would not fail. Scoring well is another problem by itself though.

To all my other friends who are going to have exams this month, fret not. Work hard and you shall see happy times (a.k.a. school holidays) ahead of you. And there's not a need to be too envious of me, because while you are happily enjoying your semester breaks, I would still have to go back for classes. It's all fair, isn't it?

Will embark on my first permanent job next Monday. Feeling just that little excitement, but it's mostly over the chance of earning more money. And of course, that would mean that I would be able to save more and be more financially independent. It's a step towards realising some of my travelling ambitions, namely Taiwan (a much longer trip compared to the meagre 2 1/2 days I had for R&R while there with the SAF), South Korea and Manchester, England, more specifically Old Trafford for a Manchester United match!

Watched Stardust this afternoon. And I have to say my expectations of the show were fully met. Definitely money well-spent, even though it's more or less a fairy tale story. But various segments of comic relief in the show, the special events, and the acting in general were all up to the mark. Claire Danes was absolutely gorgeous, Sienna Miller looked pretty in the few scenes she had, and Robert De Niro was stupendously funny!

It has been a good day, and hopefully it will be a good year. And many great months and years ahead!

2007-11-01T20:40:00.000+08:00

It's always dangerous when you get too used to some things...

And some people too.

Don't let me live the kind of life I had 3 to 4 years ago. Damn...

2007-10-25T01:03:00.000+08:00

Some people are just born to be PR disasters.

It's not really because they don't seem to be able to do anything right, but rather, they have a knack of doing wrong things at the wrong time.

There are times I also wonder if I'm like that, and I must admit, there were moments when my words could have been too harsh, too straightforward, too straight to the core of the heart.

And I apologise to anyone whom I've unintentionally upsetted in the past. Really, much as I try not to sound too PR sometimes, I do hate to hurt anybody's feelings.

Time to time, I tend to evaluate how I've treated my friends, family and any other people around me. I hope that I've been doing a decent job. I'll always try to be honest but tactful. And I do not want to give the people around me the feeling that I'm taking them for granted.

Because I've done that so often in the past, and I can't really recall a single moment which I didn't regret doing it.

So yeah, I hope to be a better person. No one can be perfect, but at least everyone can try to be as close to it as possible.

At the same time, I hope people do not take me for granted too. You may not know it, but if you can't even feel even a slight hinge of it, maybe you are a little insensitive. Or you are rather oblivious that the world is not revolved all of you.

No one owes another for a living.

Let's just say that I'm not targetting anyone in particular. It just came at a spurt of the moment, that I thought that deep in my heart, I've taken people, like my mum and a few of my best friends, for granted sometimes, though I do not necessarily show it. Just the thought makes me feel guilty enough.

Go read Mitch Albom's "For One More Day". And you might just understand what I've been trying to say. It's really a good book, and it seems like Mitch Albom is one of the very few authors who actually made me so close to crying when reading his works.

Sentosa

2007-09-27T00:47:00.000+08:00

For the first time as a Singaporean living in Singapore, I've never felt more like a tourist in a foreign country.

It's pretty amazing, but I think I haven't been to Sentosa for like over two years. For the record, the last time I visited the island, the old monorail system was still running. Now, there are barely trails and signs of the old tracks around the attraction.

It all began with a slight hiccup in finding the new Sentosa Express. Ok peeps, I don't know how long that service is running and it may not be new to you at all, but it's new to me, ya? And I have to say that the service has left me pretty much impressed.

At every Sentosa Express station (no doubt there are only four, with one still under development), there are staff stationed at the platform to welcome every visitor. With a SMILE. Even for those who didn't alight at the station, they would SMILE and wave you goodbye. I don't know how many people on the train noticed that, but I certainly was impressed.

Notice the world "SMILE" are in caps. It's something that seems to be sorely lacking in many customer-oriented service in this country. And probably only God knows why.

The beaches didn't seem to change that much, but I thought there were more beach volleyball courts compared to my last trip. And along the beaches there seemed to be more cafes and bars springing up. Which I assume can only be a good thing. F&B outlets are much more in abundance compared to the past, though the prices aren't the sort that would leave you crooning over.

The weather today was generally fine, except for a period of passing rain that lasted 15 to 20 minutes. I'm starting to fall very much in love with beach volleyball, and a short game of beach football didn't do much harm. The crowd today wasn't really over the top. I certainly wouldn't mind seeing more people at the beaches. I mean, who minds more eye-candy?

After about five hours I'm left with a reddish-looking me. But I thoroughly enjoyed myself. Thanks a lot to the guys (Defang, Ann Ming, Jiantong, Kenny and Colin) for making it happen. And I hope for more beach outings like these. With a lot more of our friends able to join us and increase the fun.

It's just a pity that as everyone grows older, and different priorities set in, occasions like these become lesser in occurance. But it's during times like these when you start reminiscing and hope for more to come. And I do cherish these moments.

2007-09-26T00:17:00.000+08:00

Attended my first lecture at SIM today.

The introduction was pretty boring, and I nearly fell asleep. But throughout the rest of the lecture, I managed to pay my utmost attention. Which left me pretty satisfied. Hopefully, this will carry on for the rest of my 1 1/2 years there.

Everything seems to be going in a rush. Project assignment handed out on the very first lecture, with the deadline just a month away. I'm glad that Cheryl, Jeremy and I could find 3 more members for our group. I'm looking forward to a cordial and fruitful partnership for this project. And perhaps it might just set a good precedent for our future projects.

Got a new haircut in the day before going for lessons. RM 90 for cut, dye, wash and treatment. I must say that it's a price that would be really damn hard to find in Singapore. And I'm pretty satisfied with the results, though I think I might encounter quite a few problems styling my hair in future. How the hairstylist make it so easy, it can be so hard to fathom at times.

I guess I will go back to the same saloon in future. Decent environment, quality service and very competitive prices. Cheers to Ann Ming for the recommendation!

Embarking on a Sentosa outing later with some of the guys frm NHSS. It's been quite a while since we had a beach outing, and am I looking forward to it. Gonna have some FUN!

NS: A Short Overview

2007-09-10T00:06:00.000+08:00

It's been more than two days since I officially ORD-ed.

I am so bloody glad that I got back my pink IC! Just the first look at it and it felt like bumping into a long-lost friend for two years.

Two years. Neither is it a long period nor a short one. But definitely a pretty eventful one.

Flashback to 7th September 2005. That was the first time I stepped foot on Pulau Tekong. Though the camouflage uniform was of no stranger to me (I was in NCC, by the way, and only God knows why), the feeling was so surreal and unreal.

Because now I am actually a soldier.

The memory of my first head shave still stays vividly in my mind. Other than the times when your mum brings you to the barber to shave your head when you're still very young, the only time I can ever remember my head being shaved was duing BMT. Man, the sight of seeing my hair left broken on the floor was simply heart-wrenching.

I would say the toughest of my time in army was in BMT. It was not so much because of tough training, as I felt I had went through worst while in the SP Dragon Boat Team for two months. But rather, it was initially feeling of being treated with the lack of respect and dignity of being a human. Regimentation loses its meaning when everyone is punished for every little shortcomings they have, or just simply because they are viewed as an eyesore.

I must say, though, that this period that I've gone through braced me for anything else that came during my NS. Posting to SISPEC wasn't my preferred option, in fact, one of the least preferred. And the reason being I never wanted to be a specialist. But it was a blessing in disguise, because being in Alpha Company thought my a lot of lessons that are especially useful in Army. Whereas most of the specialists I've seen at that point used fear to command respect, my commanders in SISPEC are much more willing to listen, much more acceptance to new ideas and more tolerant and patient in their teachings. It was then that I am enlightened on what kind of a commander I wanted to be.

I've never been in much luck in all the postingsI had. While in SISPEC, I was interviewed to gauge my interest in being a recon specialist for 6 SIR. At that point of time, all that was in my mind was that I would rather be anything other than being a recon personnel, reason being it was quite a tough vocation without enjoying much perks in terms of pay.

Little did I know that after rejecting the offer, I would still become a recon specialist. Only this time, I would be the only person from my entire batch to be posted to ATEC (Army Training Evaluation Centre) as a Scout Umpire. Not only am I a recon specialist now, but I have the thankless task of evaluating scouts from different units. Some say that it's much easier being an evaluator, mostly because the load you travel on is so much ligther than the troops on exercise. But imagine spending days and nights out in the field almost every other week with hardly any proper rest and irregular meals.

Though the paths I travelled on in NS was usually bumpy with lots of bends and blind corners, I am really grateful that I've made many good friends along the way. People whom I take much enjoyment when within their company, people whom I can whine to, people whom I can provide a listening ear for and so forth. And I was really thankful for the opportunity to spend close to two months in Taiwan. Although the R&R period was very short, the time spent left a lasting positive impression. Hopefully in the near future I would have the chance to take a one or two week holiday in Taiwan.

Now that I am back to being a civilian, life seems to start all over again. There are more important tasks to carry out, and the future requires some planning. It will definitely take some time to adjust back to a normal lifestyle, but that is not to say I will miss Army life. In fact, I am overjoyed that two years had finally come and gone.

But I do hope that when the call up for reservist training comes, I will get to train with my Army friends. Because only them would make training seem more enjoyable and memorable.

Tribute to Solskjaer

2007-08-28T22:51:00.000+08:00

It's a very sad day for all Manchester United fans.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has finally succumbed to his long term injuries and announced his retirement from football today.

It only adds up to the striking woes that Manchester United are facing now.

Hopefully, the club would give a fitting tribute to a great player who had given 11 years of service to the club without complaining once that he was never consistently in the first team. A player who always gave his best whenever he pulls on the jersey of the Red Devils.

Not to mention all the important goals he scored for the club.

I am so glad that he joined Manchester United even though he is a Liverpool fan. And I am so glad that I managed to see him play for the Red Devils for all his 11 years at the club.

A true legend and hero in Old Trafford. Manchester United fans will all miss you.

Thank you for everything you gave to the club.

2007-08-27T21:12:00.001+08:00

A year ago, I thought I finally met someone much more different than any of the officers I already know in my unit.

A year on, I think that I've, once again, proven myself right.

That no one regular I know is different from the other.

It's just disappointing when you have to work under double-standard conditions and instructions. Worse still, it's for an organisation not even driven by profit.

Commitment and credibility. Thumbs up to the commitment, but high and low as I search for any points for credibility, I just couldn't find any.

Only 11 days more. Rock on, baby!

Crazy Week

2007-08-11T15:48:00.000+08:00

Nothing seems to beat this week, in terms of the number of events that happened.

Played pool for almost every night of the week, had little sleep, went to KTV, had lots of drinks.

And almost getting trapped at a road block near SIM. Damn, am I freaking lucky. I can only say that I would definitely fail the breath test if I had to take one. Looks like I shall not play with my luck too much in future. Not often would everyone meet such nice policemen around.

Went to Bras Basah yesterday with Jiantong and Sean to get personal pool cues. In the end, the three of us bought the same one. Haha...it feels damn gay lah. But then again, what's most important is that the feel is there and you like it. Otherwise, not much of a point buying right? It set me back by in excess of $200, but for a investment worth a few years, yeah, it feels quite worth it.

EPL is back on tonight!! Three months never felt this long. Looking forward to another season of exhilirating football action.

2007-07-24T23:21:00.000+08:00

Somehow or rather, listening to this song makes me feel kinda young again. Like when I was still 18...

翼势力 & 企鹅 - 18爱不爱

第18根蜡烛吹熄以后确定对你说
爱上你微笑对着我

你是心中的第三个愿望不能说
期待明天变成亲密朋友

关于爱的种种 (猜不透)
害怕弄巧成拙 (哈啰)
不要想太多当时机成熟
光明正大手牵手

爱不爱都想要和你天天搅和
拍大头贴逛渔人码头
和梦呵…蠢蠢欲动
爱不爱心思特别多毫不保留
写满了爱的部落格
18岁最适合恋爱

你是心中的第三个愿望不能说
期待明天变成亲密朋友

关于爱的种种 (猜不透)
害怕弄巧成拙 (哈啰)
不要想太多当时机成熟
光明正大手牵手

爱不爱都想要和你天天搅和
拍大头贴逛渔人码头
和梦呵…蠢蠢欲动
爱不爱心思特别多毫不保留
写满了爱的部落格
18岁最适合恋爱

2007-07-24T22:30:00.000+08:00

Sometimes I wonder if you had taken your meals.

At times I worry if you would catch a cold in the cold weather.

Often I think about what you would be doing.

Though it's wrong, and I know that it's wrong, I just can't help but helplessly let it happen.

Why, oh why?

2007-07-02T22:37:00.000+08:00

I don't know why, but this feels like a sign that I'm really getting on with the age.

I didn't even realise that it's actually Youth Day today. Damn...

Am I not a youth anymore? *sighx*

On hindsight, the countdown is really just about to get going now. Only two months and five days more! Yippee! Though it's going to be a really busy two months, but with each minute, ORD just seems to get that much closer.

Ahh...the scent of my pink IC. The taste of freedom. And the touch of normal clothes everyday instead of the green camouflage. Hohoho!!

Just great lah.

Happy Birthday to me!

2007-06-09T03:20:00.000+08:00

It's almost three and a half hours since I've turn 22.

Most people have their most special birthdays at some definite ages, for example 12, 18 and 21. But I've got to say that perhaps my 22nd birthday had been somewhat really special for me.

For the record, I can't recall another time whereby so many people around me actually remembered it's my birthday. Many thanks to all those who remembered!! Because no matter what, having to remember would take up some of your brain juice, though little it may be.

And extra gratitude to those whom I've not met for a long, long time yet still send me birthday wishes. Even without presents these wishes are already the most precious gifts that I could receive.

Also appreciate my secondary school pals and family for the whole evening. It wouldn't have been that great had these people not been around me during this day.

In all, thank you to everyone! Hopefully your coming birthdays would be as memorable to you as mine has to me. *sMiLeZ*

2007-06-04T22:04:00.000+08:00

Turning 22 years old this coming Friday. It's hard to imagine that I've already spent 22 years in this world.

Looking back, I must've learnt many lessons to carry with me through the rest of my life. No doubt, life is a constant learning process till the day you breathe your last.

It's strange when that whenever people ask for my advice (my personal opinions, as I would like it to be known), I'm the one who is actually in need of some advice. It's real damn hard to apply on yourself what you've told others.

That's why they say. "Actions speak louder than words".

I may come to regret this, but then again, some things that are left unsaid probably should forever be left unsaid.

Perhaps that will do good for everyone.

2007-05-28T23:18:00.000+08:00

An end to another off day. Back to camp tomorrow, and not looking forward to it.

Why do the good days never seem to last?

Can't wait for the Vesak Day holiday. Not that I have anything particular to do, but I just need the rest so badly.

But it's all okay. Cause my mood's pretty good tonight.

It's amazing that all it took was a single simple message. =)

2007-05-14T23:08:00.000+08:00

Going back to camp tomorrow. The good times just never seem to last.

Wearing the green camouflage of the SAF suddenly feels so unfamiliar. Within a matter of days, it seems like I've already become a civilian, forgetting the fact that I'm still freaking holding to the 11B.

Less than four months to go, yet days never seem as long as it currently is. Anticipation is really the worst cure now.

Somehow, in these days of solitude, I've been thinking a lot. About the past, the present and the future. Not that I can help it, but well...

Many thanks to family and friends who expressed concerned when news of a Taiwanese fighter jet crashed into a military vicinity. I was already back in Singapore when that happened, and I was in a different camp which was very much far away from where the accident happened. Condolences to the family members and friends of the two deceased NSFs. And hopefully the two seriously injured will get well soon.

Gonna turn 22 soon. This isn't a hint for birthday presents (though I don't mind receiving any), just a constant realisation that I am THAT old already. Sighx...

The only reason why I harbour onto those tough times was because of those sweet moments you gave me.

S.H.E. - 五月天

2007-05-13T13:12:00.000+08:00

This is a pretty good song. Been on my playlist over and over again, though I've yet to find the full version of the song.

黃金海岸的岸邊我們肩並著肩
潔淨的藍天清澈的水面吻成一條海平線
看你溫柔的雙眼彈著吉他的弦
歌詞是諾言旋律是依戀唱出一首五月天

五月的天剛誕生的夏天
我們之間才完成的愛戀
緊握的手裡面有好多明天
五月的天夢開始要鮮豔
前方蜿蜒一長串的心願
我們一天一天慢慢實現

大雨沖走了昨天青春烏雲幾片
彩虹的旁邊有星星幾點迫不及待在眨眼
海風味道變香甜沙灘鑲滿亮片
你哼著永遠我和著不變合唱一首五月天

五月的天剛誕生的夏天
我們之間才完成的愛戀
緊握的手裡面有好多明天
五月的天夢開始要鮮豔
前方蜿蜒一長串的心願
我們一天一天慢慢實現

海浪拼命歡呼跳躍一遍又一遍
鼓勵我們看誰先吻誰的臉
為這五月之戀再添一個逗點
再多的五月天怕也不夠我們沉醉
海燕身邊來回盤旋扮演著領隊
彷彿聽見幸福在前面不遠
為這五月之戀再添一點信念
往後的五月天和你走到比永遠還遠

五月的天剛誕生的夏天
我們之間才完成的愛戀
緊握的手裡面有好多明天
五月的天夢開始要鮮豔
前方蜿蜒一長串的心願
我們一天一天慢慢實現

2007-05-12T12:26:00.000+08:00

Oh dear, how true is this...

The Keys to Your Heart

You are attracted to those who are unbridled, untrammeled, and free.
In love, you feel the most alive when your partner is patient and never willing to give up on you.
You'd like to your lover to think you are loyal and faithful... that you'll never change.
You would be forced to break up with someone who was emotional, moody, and difficult to please.
Your ideal relationship is traditional. Without saying anything, both of you communicate with your hearts.
Your risk of cheating is zero. You care about society and morality. You would never break a commitment.
You think of marriage as something that will confine you. You are afraid of marriage.
In this moment, you think of love as something you don't need. You just feel like flirting around and playing right now.

http://www.blogthings.com/keystoyourheartquiz/">What Are The Keys To Your Heart?

Home Sweet Home

2007-05-05T07:43:00.000+08:00

The toughest days in Taiwan finally reaches its end.

And yes, I'm going home soon.

But I will miss this place.

Not the work though. Sometimes, it's hard to for many to fathom between what they can do and what they should do. But it's okay, because all this shit will cease to exist anymore in less than 4 months.

On hindsight, I have to say that these two Taiwan trips were very much an eye-opener. Been to places where I can guarantee 99.99% of the Taiwanese population haven't or never will set foot on, eaten food that tasted nothing like what I had back in Singapore, seen pretty people litter the streets of Taipei and observed how generally people lived here.

Hopefully there will be a chance to come back on a holiday. No work, just pure fun and holiday.

For now, I'm looking forward to Taipei. Just a little regret that it's going to be a shorter R&R this time round.

And I'm sure when I'm onboard the flight home, I'm going to miss this place quite a bit.

Back to Taiwan

2007-04-19T21:06:00.000+08:00

Leaving tonight for Taiwan again. It's going to be a slightly longer trip this time, not to mention a much more physically demanding exercise to boot.

Glad to have a little more money to spend this time round. Hopefully there will be more time to do a bit more shopping. And sight-seeing too.

Will be back on May 9th. Till then, take care everyone!

2007-04-11T21:58:00.000+08:00

This has been a pretty good week so far.

Received the biggest pay check of my entire life on Monday. The bulk of it consists of my back pay dated from last August. Thank goodness for it, at least it made me feel slightly better for all the shite I had to go through since last year.

And I finally got myself a watch after much procrastination over the last few years. It's a Solvil et Titus watch which I managed to get for a good price (in my opinion), and it's the first formal watch I have gotten myself. Kinda agree that a guy my age should have a proper watch to wear, so yeah, I hope this one will last me for some time.

Today is ㄚ頭's birthday! Think it's her 19th birthday. It's quite sad that I don't get to watch today's episode of 我愛黑澀會 because it's mainly on her and 瑤瑤 (who is celebrating her birthday today too) competing for birthday prizes. Sighx.

And though she won't see this, but still, Happy Birthday ㄚ頭!! *winkz*

2007-04-08T22:12:00.000+08:00

This is simply hilarious. The episode is about mimicking other celebrities, and this clip shows Mei Mei acting as ㄚ頭. Quite a close act, I have to say.

2007-04-06T21:05:00.000+08:00

I totally love this song at the moment. It's from a Taiwanese idol drama, 热情仲夏. Not sure when it's going to be shown here, but hopefully I will be able to catch it soon.

小宇　－你要什么就说

煩惱　有你　生活　太吵　
沒你　卻會　無聊　
所以　我唱　什麼　聽好

你說要我喜歡你　抱歉我不行　因為我有眼睛
喔　你好煩　長的很奇怪　再跟著我就報警
仰慕我的人特別多　囉嗦的你卻包容我的沉默
喔　沒理由　跳躍的感受　在靠近左邊的胸口
喔　轉過頭　有點失落　你怎麼消失在巷口
突然搞懂　我的生活　早習慣你在左右

你要什麼都說　少了你一秒像一分鐘
現在會不會來不及　你卻還在原地
等著我　比誰都堅定　
你要什麼就說因為我一定盡我全力
希望你會覺得滿意　不滿意我改進
我可以　把未來變成童話　送給你

我想你應該不介意　我來做決定　跟著我的腳印
喔　太崇拜　自己的腦袋　乖乖的站在我身後
喔　廣場上　牽著你走　放心把一切交給我
確定什麼　開始閃爍　在我跟你的眼中

你要什麼就說　極光流星或TIFFANY
我想帶你一起旅行　哪裡都沒關係
你就是　有趣的風景　
你要什麼都說因為我一定盡我全力
希望你會覺得滿意　不滿意我改進
我可以　把童話變成日記　送給你

Back in Singapore

2007-04-02T18:51:00.000+08:00

Just woke up from an afternoon nap. My own bed never felt this good.

Yes, I'm finally back in Singapore! And I'm glad that at least I'm not feeling very foreign in my own country.

Starting to miss the streets of Taipei now. It's pretty hard to describe how much you can do and see while in the city. There are plenty of night markets to prowl around. But one thing is for one kind of food item, you'll find quite a few hawkers selling it. All have their different tastes though, and it's really up to you to find out which suits your taste buds most.

If you are going to Taipei, do remember to drop by Shi Lin night market and try the fried chicken cutlet. Because I can't really tell you how huge it is. The length of it must be almost 30cm. So yeah, you can actually visualise how huge it is ya?

I love the shoes they sell in Taiwan! Some of the models are readily available in Singapore, but they come in designs you can never find here. And there are designs you cannot find here too. Not to mention it's cheaper. I've alreadybought a pair of track shoes (the old one's worn, the army one's spoilt), and saw a pair of sneakers in Ximen Ting which I really want. Hopefully it's still there when I'm back next month.

What they say about the streets of Taipei isn't that wrong either. The girls there are really quite pretty! Most of the shop assistants are attractive looking, especially those selling accessories in Ximen Ting. And everyone who works in Taipei 101 and the few shopping malls around it too.

Oh yeah, I managed to see Rainie Yang in action outside the McDonald's in New York New York! She wasn't singing, rather she was doing a belly-dance! It was in conjunction with her endorsing the Taiwanese version of our McSpicy here. I must say we were lucky to be at that event. Just a case of being in the right place at the right time. When I get my hands on the video my friend filmed I may just upload it.

First day of my off seemed to pass by really quickly. Six more days, hopefully it will take its time.

In Taiwan

2007-03-22T16:49:00.000+08:00

Hey hey. I've managed to find some time to blog while I'm in Taiwan!

Haven't been up to much for the first week since I'm here、but the exercise is going to start tomorrow. So yeah、it's going to be a really busy、hectic and tiring week until next Thursday.

The place has left a very positive impression on me so far. The weather is really cooling (perhaps a little bit too cold for me most of the time)、the people here are friendly and things have been relatively cheap and affordable. Maybe that's because I'm not yet in Taipei yet.

Have been spending quite a bit on food thus far、hopefully I haven't gained too much weight. Can't help it lah、the chicken cutlet and instant noodles here are pretty irresistable.

Kinda missing Singapore a little. Not so much of the place、but more of the people. Mum has been pretty worried that I didn't call back、but I've sent my regards via my sister through MSN、so I guess that's pretty alright.

Hopefully all my friends and loved ones are doing fine. Can't wait to see everyone when I'm back.

But till then、I'm enjoying my stay here. Will very much look forward to coming back here on April 20. Sometimes I wish I could stay a little longer. The pace of life seems so much slower. Sunrise comes one hour earlier than in Singapore、and sunset is over by 6:30pm almost all the time.

Guess I shall end here. Hopefully there might be time again to blog.

I miss you、you、you、you and you. But most importantly、I miss YOU.

Taiwan

2007-03-16T20:06:00.000+08:00

Six more hours andI'll be on board my flight to Taiwan.

Still trying to shake myself into the reality that I am really going there. It's hard to believe the time is here so soon.

Hopefully it will be a very fun trip. It's a trip of many firsts; first time on board an aeroplane (that sounds really sua ku eh?), first time travelling to a place so far away from home, first time leaving this tiny island for such a long time...

And maybe it will be the first time I see ㄚ頭 too! Haha...wishful thinking.

Be back on April 2. Till then, take care everyone! *sMiLeZ*

2007-03-11T21:37:00.000+08:00

Probably the last post before I leave for Taiwan this coming Friday.

How this weekend has passed. So fast I could hardly believe tomorrow is Monday.

Watched three pretty good movies this week; Rocky Balboa, The Pursuit of Happyness and 300. Hoping to watch Music and Lyrics before I leave.

I don't know why but I keep getting this feeling of wanting a lot of things before leaving. It's strange because I'll be back on April 2, which isn't really long afterall. But still...hmm....

Anyway, wish me luck as I embark onto the land of 黑涩会美眉!! *bleahz*

Hopefully I'll have many positives to talk about when I'm back.

2007-03-05T14:19:00.000+08:00

I can't believe I've gotten through a Sunday guard duty as guard commander. First time doing guard commander, and I must say I didn't do a really good job. A few mistakes here and there, but nothing major happened. So I guess it's still pretty much ok.

Hope I won't do another regimental weekend duty though. Such a waste of time my time when I could spend the weekend doing things much more meaningful.

Anyway, I spent a bulk of my time during my shifts reading a book, Tuesdays with Morrie. It is not really a very new book. It's been lying around my room for ages, and I've always been procrastinating about reading it. But boy, once I started, I couldn't really stop flipping to the next page, and to the next page.

The book is somewhat a thesis by the author (Mitch Albom), who drew inspiration from his dying university professor (Morrie Schwatz). Mitch had lost touch with Morrie for 16 years after graduation, and when he re-united with Morrie, it was a time when Morrie was suffering from an incurable disease called ALS. As death slowly creeps into Morrie's body each day, both decided to come up with a final paper, the theme being the meaining of life and death. And they met up every Tuesday to discuss the different aspects of life till the day Morrie finally succumb to the disease.

I'm not one who often falls for books on self-improvement and/or preaching about ways of life. But this is one that really touched my heart. Because of the way a man could actually face death face-to-face. Because of the way he made me realise that in this world, material gain is more often than not a substitute for whatever emptiness we feel inside us. Because of the way he enligthened me to the fact that it's only when we are facing death then we begin to cherish the small little things we had but never noticed.

And I could go on and on about the many different lessons I've learnt.

In short, it was tough holding back tears while reading. I could never imagine being in the shoes of Mitch, who had to watch his most beloved professor whithering week by week, the disease eating Morrie from the feet all the way up to the brain.

Anyone who has the time should seriously read this book. Even if you don't have the time, make some time for it because it would be worth your while.

Anyway, I had a ball of a time last Friday during Re-connect. In case you're wondering what Re-connect is, it is actually an event organised by SP and School of Business exclusively for Media & Communication graduates. It was fun meeting and catching up with classmates, coursemates and lecturers whom I haven't met in ages. A pity some couldn't make it because I wished many more would have come. Couldn't help but start reminiscing about the three years I spent in SP.

And I'm really thankful to everyone who made the event possible. Not just for the effort they put into organising the whole event, but also for the money the school had to fork out for the whole thing. Really hope that come next year, the year after next, and for many years to come, there will be Re-connect. Even if it means having to fork a small sum to finance the whole event because it really is worth it.

Not to forget the surprises I received. The two biggest highlights? Firstly, for Ms Phyllis Peters still remembering my name even though she only taught us for two law modules in three years. Many teachers who have taught me could barely remember (or even properly pronounce) my name even after teaching me for a year or two.

And the second? My Year Two form tutor, Ms Kwa Lay Ping, for actually commenting that I've slimmed down the moment she saw me. That must be the biggest joke of the evening because everyone believed she must be referring to Shifa instead. Granted she haven't seen me in like two years, but slim down? I would have been glad if I haven't put on that many pounds since serving NS!

It's been a long, long post. Feels like eons since I've written so much.

11 days to go before I'm flying to Taiwan. The anxiety is slowing getting into me.

2007-02-27T21:32:00.001+08:00

Why the hell am I feeling so bloody emo today?

Damn...

2007-02-25T23:33:00.000+08:00

What did I say about the one week break? That it would fly by without any notice.

And so it did, making me look forward to yet anothr Chinese New Year in 365 days' time.

Anyway, if everything goes, I'll be off to Taiwan on March 16. I may say I'm eagerly anticipating the trip, but inside the feelings really are pretty mixed.

Would many things change when I come back? Would I change when I come back? A little part of me actually wished to not come back at all. And a little part wished I wouldn't go.

I know, I know. I'm a very confused human being. But it's not like I can really help it. Who would wanna be confused, ya?

If only I could make you see what I see. If only I could make you feel what I feel. If only...

Life is just filled with so many of "if only".

Next Friday should be worth looking forward to. Going back to SP for a DMC gathering organised by the school and lecturers. A really great chance to catch up with ex-classmates and coursemates who I've not seen in ages. And of course, the dear lecturers who made the event happen.

Damn, I hate my life sometimes.

2007-02-21T16:05:00.000+08:00

It's been almost a week. This feeling is just, quite weird.

And frankly speaking, I hate this feeling. Damn, why wouldn't it go away?

Flying to Taiwan in a month's time. Really looking forward to it. Guess I'm gonna very much appreciate the time spent away from this island.

Perhaps that's just the tonic I need? Hmm...

2007-02-15T19:49:00.000+08:00

Wednesday evening was a really memorable.

It would probably be etched in my mind for quite a long while.

And I can't thank you enough for making it happen.

Endless...

2007-02-12T21:04:00.000+08:00

Work, sai gang...

It's been a while since I last updated, and I hate it when the first words that are typed out bore frustrations and complaints.

But what can I do?

Damn, first day back in the office and I received so much work. I guess some people really wanna get every cent's worth out of you sometimes.

So looking forward to Wednesday! But my preparations have not even finished yet.

Oh no...help!!

Please don't blame me for being overly fussy or excited. Because I just can't help it!

And this weekend's Chinese New Year! Damn cool! Really anticipating it too.

An advanced Happy Chinese New Year to everyone!

Goody Moody

2007-01-29T21:34:00.000+08:00

Officially received my jungle hat today, which signifies the end of Phase 1 of my Recce Commander Course. It feels great because the tougher parts of the course are more or less over.

Hopefully the last 2 weeks would be a breeze. Only a single major exercise left for next week.

Anyway, I'm in a pretty good mood. Mood really changes like the weather. It can be pretty unpredictable at times.

May more good things happen my way in the next few months.

Just...

2007-01-28T09:19:00.000+08:00

feeling a little disappointed. Not sure if it's only a little or a lot, just don't ask me why.

Combat Survival Training...

2007-01-27T12:50:00.000+08:00

wasn't exactly that fun. Having very little to eat over 4 days, spending a night being treated like an idiot during the POW training, sleeping in an A-frame sheltered by leaves on 2 cold and rainy nights.

Not to mention myself suffering from some cuts on my fingers due to carelessness. *ouch*

But then again, it's not too bad an experience. Survival primitive-style really ain't easy at all. Of course, I wouldn't wanna go through it all again. Once is more than enough.

Anyway, went out to drink last night again with my peeps, Jiantong, Kenny, Ann Ming, Sean and Geraldine. It seems like we have become drinking buddies. Not to mention it's the 4th consecutive week that I've gone drinking.

Not that it has become an addiction, but it really is a good way to unwind and chill out with friends. Sitting down together with some drinks, sing songs, play some bar games, chit chat and catch up...

Is it a sign of us getting old? Hmm...

Got quite a bit to do this weekend. Buy some new clothes, grab a really good meal, watch some football...

It is never easy to move on. So tell me, how tough is it gonna be to move on again after you've moved on?

Traumatized

2007-01-19T19:52:00.000+08:00

Yes, I am. After having to kill a frog today.

Still can't quite get the image off my mind. Really felt a lot of pity for the frogs.

Hope it's gonna be the first and last time. Damn...

If Only...

2007-01-02T19:39:00.000+08:00

Happy times never ever seem to last, don't they?

It really felt like yesterday when I booked out on Friday and looking forward to a very long and enjoyable weekend.

Now, though, with less than a few hours to go, I'm staring at book in right in the face. And not able to be in the current position I'm in until Saturday.

What a misery...

**********************************

Sometimes I wonder what would happen if I'm really honest, frank and straightforward.

Would better things happen? Or would the worst, which always run around in my mind, come true instead?

Like they say, it may be damn freaking hard to strike 4D or Toto, but if you never even try, then you will no chance at all.

I hate maths. And I hate probability.

Oh well...

ORD Year!

2007-01-01T17:45:00.000+08:00

Yes, yes. It's finally the ORD year!!

Hohoho...finally man. It seems forever that 2005 would change to 2007. But it's already 2007 now, and there's only 9 more months to go. So happy!

Anyway, hope everyone had a wonderful New Year's Eve. Mine certainly was pretty fun, though I only spent it with 3 friends (Jiantong, Yukun and Geraldine). Went bowling at Chevrons, had supper, and sang our hearts out at K-Box Jurong East till almost 4:30am.

It's been a long long time since I last went KTV, and it was thoroughly enjoyable. And the highlight was the 3 of us making Yukun open up and actually sing! Seriously, he isn't as bad as he thought of himself. Besides, we are all not professionals. KTV is just supposed to be a chill-out and destressing experience, ain't it so?

But I do feel a little guilty about spending so much. Really need to save up so that my Korea trip at the end of the year would be a reality rather than a thought. And I have to contend with Taiwan trips during March and April. The R&R will cost money too.

Oh yeah, saw something that really brightened my whole New Year too. I guess I couldn't ask for more to start year 2007. Not gonna tell you what that is though. *smirks*

Happy New Year to everyone once again!! May all your wishes come true and everyone be blessed with good health and luck!! *sMiLeZ*

New Messenger Contact

2006-12-30T21:45:00.000+08:00

Hey friends, if you happen to see this, I've got a new Messenger contact.

You can add me at l_chengxun@hotmail.com. l as in london in small caps and a _ (underscore) after that, in case the address is being highlighted and you can't see it properly.

No, I didn't get this new contact for myself as a Christmas present. It's just the other one that I've been using is kinda screwed. Can't log on to it no matter how I try and I can't find a problem to it.

It's just so plain irritating, but what can I do? Shit really happens...

2006-12-29T22:22:00.000+08:00

Just what the hell is wrong with Windows Live Messenger?!?!

Damn, I've been trying to sign in for so bloody long, and yet I can't find any problems to it.

I really have an insatiable need and desire to log in. Argh...

Well...at least Youtube's running. So yeah...

Life is still not too bad afterall.

Merry, Merry Christmas!

2006-12-24T19:37:00.000+08:00

It's less than 5 hours to Christmas!!

Somehow I feel kind of obliged to join in the festive mood. Therefore...

Merry Christmas to everyone!!

I don't feel so bad that at least I have something to do later for this year's Christmas Eve, though it's with my usual bunch of secondary school friends. Seems like every year if I ever do something or go out during Christmas Eve, it's with them.

I'm not exactly complaining though. They are probably the best company I'll ever have in the whole of my life, and I'm really thankful for that. But because when you've never spend it with someone special before, you tend to crave for that feeling.

Oh well, anyway I'm going to enjoy the good times while it last. Because this time tomorrow, I'll be preparing to book in.

Sighx...I hate that term.

I did survive

2006-12-22T23:44:00.000+08:00

I survived my 9-kilometre and 12-kilometre fast marches!!

I didn't quite know how I did, because I didn't think I could really do it.

But after the 12-kilometre fast march today, I'm really pretty shagged out. My legs feel like they are gonna break, and my feet seem like they will crack anytime.

Anyhow, I'm really glad I survived this week, though I was pretty much hallucinating for the last 4 kilometres today. But now, at least there's an extended break to look forward to!

Yes, this is the season to be jolly. Somehow, Christmas has never meant much to me, but hey, it's an extra day of rest, nonetheless. So thankful for that! Maybe should take the chance to catch a movie over the weekend or treat myself to some good food.

Afterall, I think I deserve it, don't I? *winkz*

2006-12-17T21:41:00.000+08:00

I feel so sad....

In about 30 minutes I'll have to book in. It feels so strange, maybe it's because it's been a real long time since I last booked in on a Sunday night.

I just hate being on course. Yes, the responsibility is low, but in exchange for a very packed schedule and a lot of regimentation...

Oh well, on a bright side, if I can pull through this coming week I should be able to last the course. Hopefully...

I've never been one to look forward to Christmas, mostly because I don't celebrate it so it doesn't quite mean anything to me. Besides, it's a festival during the school holidays, when often, I'm already on a break. But this year seems really different.

I guess I really yearn a lot for that extended break.

Lille vs Man Utd

2006-12-15T21:09:00.000+08:00

Thank god for this draw. This is probably the draw that very Man Utd fans are hoping for.

The weakest team of the lot of runnes-up in the group stage, Lille.

Plus the chance to take revenge on the team that knocked them out of the group stages last year.

Not that I want to say, but somehow the draw seems kind of fixed at times. Oh well, I'm just gonna thank my lucky stars that Man Utd is getting another easy draw (on paper, at least).

RCC

2006-12-11T16:16:00.000+08:00

14th December 2006.

The dreaded date is looming so very closely...

How I dread the fact that I'm finally going for my Recce Commander Course. After a long, long wait of almost 10 months.

Seriously, I'm praying damn hard that I won't die there. The course just looks, well, terribly tough. I've to bear with the horrible first 6 weeks before the last 2 weeks look like it's gonna be more of a breeze. Yes, if the last 2 weeks look like a breeze, the first 6 feels like a tornado looking to rip me apart.

On a much happier and brighter note, I can finally say this for the first time in 8 years...

Manchester United is 8 points CLEAR on top of the English Premier League!!

Albeit Chelsea has a game in hand and could reduce it to 5, but who cares? They might just screw up, for all you know. I'm certainly hoping they do, as probably do most neutrals, even though the chances are pretty slim, which I have to admit.

It's going to be a really busy week, and for the next 5 or 6. Can't wait for 12 February 2007 to come...

2006-11-30T11:42:00.000+08:00

I've been laughing at this over and over again. Oh my...even Nicholas Tse was left in stitches.

Her voice is just too damn cute lah. So much so that you can hardly scold her for saying that foul Cantonese phrase.

********

Anyway, I'm on leave. Yes, finally. Will be off from work for 7 working days. Fantastic, isn't it? But the more I look at the training schedule for my upcoming course, the more I'm dreading it. It really is gonna be a hell of a ride for the first 6 weeks. Kinda makes me wonder how am I going to survive the whole thing. I hope I do, and I hope I'll be able to find ways to survive quickly. Just wanna get it over and done with.

In the meantime, I'll just enjoy this break while I can. Happy days never seem to last long, don't they?

2006-11-21T21:07:00.000+08:00

Sometimes, can you really blame NSFs for hating NS?

I mean, when you have to bear the brunt of mistakes you never made...

When you had to surrender your privileges in order to appease someone else...

When you have a superior who accuses you of not trying hard enough even though you did...

Ask yourself this: would you take pleasure when someone does something for you not out of willingness but out of, perhaps, fear or a lack of a choice to say no?

Maybe some power-loving egomaniacs do. But I certainly don't.

Really, some people do not understand the epitome of leadership and command. It is not an authority for you to mouth off someone just because you are pissed off, not for you to "arrow" someone to do your work because you can't quite be bothered to do it.

It is the ability to effectively guide people under you to the correct path of thought and conduct. The ability to gain trust based on what you could and should do. The ability to earn respect, so much so that if one day should you be on the battlefield with your men, they would use their bodies as shields to safekeep your life.

It is just so sad. Somehow I could feel the anguish of a man wrongly accused of a crime he never committed. The feeling of a sacrificial lamb.

And people should just learn not to compare. Do you ever compare the job scopes of, say, a doctor and an engineer? No? So that's why you also do not compare the perks and stress each job brings, isn't that so?

10 more months to go. Damn, days never seemed to pass by as slowly as of late...

Just Thinking...

2006-11-20T22:08:00.000+08:00

I often ponder such a question:

Is it better to wait for things to happen, or is it better to make things happen.

And I just wondered about that a few moments, with an answer proving inconclusive until now.

Maybe, just maybe...

Making things happen seems a slightly better option. Because I was hoping and waiting for something to happen. In the end, that thing just went *poof* and disappeared.

So yeah, perhaps next time I should just make things happen.

GST increasing

2006-11-13T22:36:00.000+08:00

Have you heard the news?

Yes, our dearest PM had just mentioned the likelihood of GST increasing a "mere" 2%.

Wow, 7% GST. The pinch don't really set in when you buy something that cost, probably a dollar. But when purchase goods by the hundreds, well...

An increase in GST should symbolise that our society has moved on. And by that, I mean for the better. So, how come, then, do I not feel that my life (or my pay, more importantly) has positively moved on?

Hmm...maybe that's because I'm bloody serving the army. Oh well...

Retail Therapy

2006-11-12T17:08:00.000+08:00

Yesterday I went out shopping for a pair of new speakers for my computer.

Looking around various shops, I found quite a number of options from which I could choose from. Until...

I passed by a handphone shop.

But hey, what has it got to do with computer speakers?

Because I saw a promotion for this weekend! A Sony Ericsson K800i going only for $298 with a sign up for 2 years!

It really got me deliberating for quite some time. I liked the phone from the first time I set my eyes on it. A few weeks ago, SingTel's hello! shops at selling it at $368 for a 2-year sign up. Now it's going only at $298!

So yeah, I guess you know that in the end, I did get the phone. It burnt a little hole in my wallet, but it'll be pretty fine if I'm frugal for this month.

What about the speakers, you ask.

I did get a pair at $14, but somehow it doesn't quite work with my computer. Really strange, the only online helpdesk suggested it could be due to too many appliances sharing a similar power point. But damn, there's only this 1 power point near my computer.

Oh well, maybe I should just get another 1 soon.

I love my new phone though. Gonna take a lot of pictures real soon.

this strange feeling

2006-11-10T22:50:00.000+08:00

Ever had the feeling whereby throughout the whole day you're only looking forward to doing that one single thing?

And that thought hogs your mind so bad that it might drive you bonkers anytime?

Well, I...........

Have not, actually.

I wouldn't even say what I'm feeling now is even close to that point. Maybe just that little which is about enough to make the heart itch.

The feeling's so bloody strange, seemingly telling me that perhaps, just perhaps........

But it's just so surreal. So intimidating. So very unreal.

I just hate to have this feeling again.

Lull Period!!

2006-11-08T22:57:00.000+08:00

After the conclusion of the last Stage 1 evaluation for this year, it is finally here!!

Yes, the time of the year when every NSF in the office is looking forward to. Lull period!!

But it's kinda sad that I only get to enjoy a single month of it before I go for course. Really damn sad man, that 8 weeks of hell...

And it's also sad that I won't get to see both Vinson and Suhan ORD.

I guess I'll just make the best out of this single month because it will definitely fly by in no time. Trust me, pretty soon you'll see be complaining about the Recce course.

Damn, I need some sleep. And I am just so craving for a tom yam flavour cup noodle. This irritating nose of mine can't stop sniffing...

2006-11-03T23:07:00.000+08:00

I'm almost bored out of my wits, on a Friday night, no less.

Actually, I'm that freaking tired, so much so that I might just KO the moment I hit the sack. But I can't coax myself to go to bed yet. For now, at least.

On a slightly happier note, there's only 1 more Stage 1 Evaluation left for this year, and it's gonna be next week. I just can't wait to see the end of next week. And pay day is next Friday too! It couldn't feel better than that, eh?

But I'm not really looking forward so much for my Recce course. Damn it's gonna be one hell of a tough ride for 8 weeks. And given my physical shape (which is, well, a little round) now, I really wonder if I can survive the full package. No choice, have to find any means I can to eke out ways to survive the bloody course.

The only thing I'm looking forward is the pay rise after the course. Maybe a little to the promotion, but then again, to take up more responsibilities for only a $200 increase in pay...hmm, not really worth it.

But I'm hard up!! What to do? So many things to buy, so little credit. And there are the Taiwan trips for next year. Need money to spend during R&R. Plus my target to go to Korea. A little dreamy, but you gotta have to set a target to start with, right?

2006-11-01T23:42:00.000+08:00

I'm feeling weird all over.

Why? Because I suddenly wished to tell you I miss you.

But I just can't. Weird huh? Cause I don't know why I can't.

If only you knew. And feel the same way too...

My Korean Name

2006-10-31T22:41:00.000+08:00

Was surfing around on the Net and came across a Chinese website with names of Korean artistes spelt in English and written in Chinese.

Guess what my name would sound in Korean?

Yoo Seung-Hoon!!

Haha...damn it does sound really different from Chinese. But quite cool eh?

I wanna learn Korean!!! But actually, I wanna go to Korea (South, not North) even more.

Will the dream be realised next year? Hmm...

New LCD Monitor!

2006-10-29T21:18:00.000+08:00

I've got a new LCD monitor!!

Haha...pardon me for being overly excited, but I never expected my father to agree so readily on getting a new monitor once the old one started to get real cranky.

Not to mention he suggested a 19" instead of 17". Man, little did I expect that!

But yeah, I'm really satisfied with the new monitor. And hopefully, it will last me a long time because I don't really feel like spending money in the near future for another monitor.

Starting to dread the coming two weeks. Sighx...why must every weekend pass by so very quickly?

it's a strange feeling, but I don't know why I wished I was talking to you now...

2006-10-26T21:11:00.000+08:00

2 years really pass by so quickly. Too quick for me to realise that it has, indeed, been 2 long years.

Yet, it was a day I could never forget in my whole life. A day I wished all the time that I could re-live. Just for once.

Perhaps it is a good thing that I never do get the chance to. Because humans are, by nature, greedy. Given an inch, you'll want a yard.

Oh well...life still goes on. And on. And on.

Anyway, I wonder if I'm the only one who thinks this way, but why do the daily decisions made by some top people in Army always seem to befit any...logic?

If it ain't broke, why fix it? If there really is nothing better to do, why look for something to? And often, or rather, always, it is at the expense of people who serve the nation for a paltry sum of money every month.

And mind you, we are there to serve the nation, not to bloody serve you!

Or maybe it's just me who can't see the "bigger" picture. Or the "wider scope of things".

I may not always be right, but I am never wrong.

I wonder...and wander

2006-10-23T23:05:00.000+08:00

Was flipping through my drawers and cupboards over the weekend. It's strange, but sometimes you just feel like rummaging through some old stuff for some memorable history.

The most interesting ones that caught my attention were a few pieces of foolscap paper. It was scribbled with some words of encouragement from a particular someone. Most of the contents were in Chinese, but the cutest part of the messages were that of telling me to be 10:10 on the clock instead of 8:20.

Hmm, I sense a few puzzled reactions. What the heck am I talking about?

Well, it's actually pretty simple. Imagine a clockface showing the hour hand pointing at 10 while the minute hand points at 2. And viola!! You actually get a smiley face! Thus, if the hour hand points at 8 and the minute hand points at 4, you get a frown.

Get the explanation? So yeah, it's someone slipping me a note trying to turn the frown on my face into a smile. And you know what, as far as I can remember, it worked almost everytime.

And guess what, those foolscap papers actually date back to the year of......1999!! Even before the turn of the millennium!! That means they have been with me for like, 7 years? That's already a one-third of my lifetime!

It's strange that something so simple can actually do so much. I mean, how nice can words be scribbled on foolscap paper look? Even the most expensive foolscap paper you can buy looks like, well, just another foolscap paper.

What I'm trying to drive across is that on many occasions, you do not have to go all out to make someone feel better, to make someone feel cherished and important and so on. All it takes is sincerity and a genuine heart to do so.

And I wonder why I never realised that things could have been this simple a few years back when it had dawned on me 7 years ago. Not to mention failing to convince myself that these simple things that touched my heart would similarly touch others' too.