Function

Problem?

2011-12-04T00:55:00.002+08:00

Sometimes, it's just so hard to get through to you...you may think you're not worth it or not good enough and all, but i just don't see you in that sorta light. And it's hard for me to convince you otherwise when you keep insisting that you are scum.

Sure, everybody has their flaws. Nobody's perfect. But that doesn't mean that they can't try. It's inevitable that we'll make mistakes once in awhile. Heck, i can admit that i'm not perfect. I've made a lot of mistakes that i regret, and i'm sure that i'll make even more in the future. But we can't just dither on mistakes from the past. We've to look towards the future.

I love you. But it's hard during the times when you can't even love yourself. And i exhaust myself trying to convince you...

Sometimes, i just get tired. I get so tired...

I just hope that you won't repeat it too many times until i start to believe it too...

To the brim.

2011-11-16T23:20:00.003+08:00

Sigh. life in TOA. And it's not even a lot compared to what our seniors got during their time. I know that more work = more experience = better artist, but i sure am glad i'm not them.

10 figures every week
Colour booklet to be done in 2 weeks
History movie promotion (poster + postcard + sketchbook)
Language & Communications presentation in 3 weeks
Malaysian Studies presentation this week
History exam in 2 weeks
Initial design to be evaluated next week
Line & tonal value drawing x2 every week
Malaysian studies final 3 weeks

Boo you, assignments! BOO YOU!! >=(

Who's Afraid of The Big Bad Wolf?

2011-10-16T23:55:00.005+08:00

It's been ages since i last posted something here.

Anyway, quick update. I've survived NS, am officially legal, and i've enrolled in college. That about sums everything up real quick =)

But that's not what i want to talk to you about. I want to talk about the book fair that i went to yesterday!!! It's called The Big Bad Wolf Book Sale!! =D You can access the website here.

*drools*

So apparently, this book sale is held once a year, and they sell ALL kinds of books. From art to romance to politics to religion to lifestyle, computers, fiction, non-fiction, adventure, mystery, thriller, self-help, history, cookery, children's books, magazines, comics, comedy, bibliographies, YOU NAME IT, THEY HAVE IT.

Manga.

Not only that, the prices are SUPER reasonable. Lowest prices i've ever seen. Majority of the books there cost RM 5 to RM 8 per book, and the most expensive i've seen is RM 12 for one book! I heard that the art books sold for RM 20, but they've been long sold out since the first day.

It was held in MAEPS hall in Serdang, and the hall was quite big. I went on the second-last day of the sale. At first, we had to walk up a kind slope to get to the main building as they don't let cars in (no idea why), only the trams. Ate lunch first cause we were hungry. There were a few vendors selling food outside the hall (no food and drinks allowed inside), so we bought some pizza and some rice with chicken. A good thing we did too, cause we were inside the hall for around 2 hours. I would've stayed on a little longer, but my parents were tired and we wanted to get home =(

Queueing up to enter the hall.

So anyway, we had to queue up to get in. Although the hall is big enough to fit everybody in, they had to make sure we didn't bring any food and drinks inside. When i stepped into the hall, i was overcame with awe. Books upon books upon books upon BOOKS! I mean, there were so many books in one place!! And it was on the second-last day!! I wonder how much would've been there if i came on the first...definitely will do so next year =D

A UTOPIA OF BOOKS!

So yeah, i did lots of browsing, was kinda lost at first cause didn't know where to start...should've worked out a systematic way of going through the tables, but in the end, i just followed where ever my feet took me, heh. I think i wasted a lot of time checking if the book was perfect or not though =/

That's cause some of the books were reject books, like, the printing has gone wrong on the inside, some had torn covers etc. (you can tell if they're rejects if it's marked on the textblock) Publishing errors. Poor books. But then again, this was a warehouse sale, so of course you're bound to get imperfect ones. But then again, there WERE books that were completely perfect and new. At all those low prices, it was practically daylight robbery in my opinion, heh.

Don't forget to bring suitcases, trolleys or anything that has wheels on it.

It wasn't hot or stuffy there (the air conditioning system was quite cool), and there was enough space to walk and manoeuvre around people. They give you boxes to carry your books in, but i brought my own luggage bag (suggested by my mom =D) to stuff the books in. Was really handy, and i recommend you to do so as well if you ever go to a really cheap book sale like this one =)

All in all, i bought over 25+ books, and the bill came up to RM 289+. Reasonable, right? If you go to MPH, you'd have to purchase 1 book for an average price of RM 30, so it's really worth it. Even if some books have slight defects (like torn covers), they're still books right? Still readable (except for those with a few blank pages), and still every bit as informative as their perfect counterparts =)

Can't wait to go back there next year =)

Icy

2011-08-16T00:00:00.001+08:00

Sometimes, I wish that I could care less.

Stay tuned

2011-04-20T22:04:00.002+08:00

I think it's time for a revamp.

Edit: Okay the revamp will have to wait. I'm going to NS.

Freedom

2011-03-06T22:04:00.001+08:00

Something i hope i'll never take for granted.

Language

2011-01-11T04:29:00.003+08:00

TOO quick.

2011-01-01T00:59:00.004+08:00

Somebody shoot me.

It CAN'T be 2011 already.

Happy New Year, guys.

Here's to a new year ahead.

Cheers =)

My First Love

2010-12-27T02:01:00.001+08:00

Love is wonderful, love is magical. But how many of you remember your first love? And has others stolen your heart since then?

I remember the time i first set my eyes on you. It was during the early days of my childhood, and i was over at a friend's place. She had left me to my own devices, allowing me to entertain myself. I wandered into her study room and caught sight of you, nonchalantly sitting there. You were sporting a navy-blue number, and there was a picture of a sleeping dog tucked up in a bed with a brightly patterned quilt covering it. To others, it might have been considered childish, or even silly, but that image on your chest intrigued my 5-year old mind. It made me wonder. What were you like?

I looked around, making sure there was nobody else in the room before i introduced myself to you. Before i knew it, you were chatting with me, telling me every single detail about yourself, while i listened. You were friendly, and so eager to share everything about yourself with me. I was sorry when my mom came to pick me up and i had to leave you behind.

It wasn't very long before i met you again, though. I caught sight of you in a mall, i can never remember where, now. But we picked up from right where you left off. You continued the conversation easily, telling me your stories and tales. Of course i knew that most of them were fiction, but i liked to think they were true, since i was still a kid then.

I brought you home that day. I had to get my dad's stamp of approval first though, but that was easy. I introduced him to you and said that i wanted to bring you home. He took one look at my child-like, pleading eyes and the hands that held you tightly, and smiled. He liked you.

My parents encouraged the relationship between us. They thought that you could teach me things, since you knew so much. And you did. I learnt a lot from you. Sometimes, you use words that i don't even know the meaning of. And the worst part is? You won't ever tell me the definition! Either i've to comb for the answer in the dictionary, guess the meaning from whatever information i can glean in your sentence, or ask my dad (he'll usually just tell me to use the dictionary too).

What i admired most about you though, was your ability to weave the most amazing situations, making them almost life-like. You brought me to this whole other world where there was magic and enchantment in the land, where talking animals, dragons, fairies, pixies and giants exist amidst the normality of life. You talked as though you had actually been there before.

It sounds silly, but it seemed much more interesting than my mundane life, where i had to go to school, attend classes and do my homework. You filled my mind with such wonder and entertainment. There was so much that you knew, and your eccentric personality astounded me!

Ever since that day, i fell in love with you. You became my constant companion. Every day, you accompanied me, and every day, i would listen to you tell your stories with an open mind. You never ceased to amaze me, and in turn, i never got bored of listening to you.

You were quite self-centered in the fact that you never asked me questions about me, only talking about yourself. But i didn't mind at all, i preferred your world of fantasy to my mundane life. With every new day that came, you had something new to capture my interest. Day by day passed, and you wore different clothes of all colors. Some made your appearance either fat or thin, and some of the colors you wore were so bright, with different pictures on it. I didn't care much about your appearance though. Sure, when you caught my eye with yet another new look on, i'd give you a once-over, appraising your style.

My friends asked me what i saw in you. They've all met you before, but most of them found you boring and dull. They didn't take an interest in you like i did. I didn't mind, i was a bit sad that i had no one to talk to about you, but i also think i was secretly happy that i didn't have to share you with anyone else.

Through the years, as i grew up, you grew up with me. Your stories changed and you used much bigger and more grown-up sounding words, like 'antipathy' or 'defenestrate'. Sometimes i have no idea what the hell you mean, but i'm just too lazy to look for the dictionary, so i just let you continue talking. You gave me a wide variety of genres to choose from, action to romance to fantasy to comedy, etc. My favourite stories were the ones that had fantasy, comedy and an awesome storyline and plot all rolled up together, with just a hint of romance.

You know, one of the best thing i like about your stories is the bond that i share with the characters in it. You see, when you tell your tales, it's usually from one point of view, but in some stories it varies. And through that POV, i learn about different characters and his/her feelings, and there is an understanding or connection between us, if you will. It may seem silly, but i grow somewhat attached to them.

Of course, the best stories are the ones where you kill off the characters i love. I may seem like a sadist (maybe i am), but that's when i can actually feel the most emotion when i listen to you reveal their fate. It's one of the reasons why i love you so much. You can make me smile, laugh out loud, touch my heart, even make me cry and feel like life isn't worth living anymore. All of that and more, just with a few words. Your influence on me is tremendous.

My parents encouraged the relationship between us. You were always patient with me, never demanding my attention, pausing mid-sentence if i was occupied, and continuing where you left off once i turned my eyes back to you.

I adored you. I spent most of my time with you and you became my constant companion. We spent time together regularly, almost every single day. We'd hang out for hours on my bed, sometimes in the dead of the night, quietly, as to not wake my mom. I'd drag you with me to social events, parties, dinners and travels. Some people might've thought we were rude, since i only had eyes for you, especially during mealtimes, taking little notice of them.

My favourite spot to be with you was still the bed though, where i could lie in comfort, looking at you, listening to you talk till sleep overwhelmed me. Immediately, you'd stop, waiting for me to wake and prompt you to continue.

Can you believe it? Till today, you are still with me. You still accompany me through the night, you still talk to me at mealtimes and you still tell me stories to sleep. Through all these years, ever since i was a little girl of five. You stuck with me. Through hard times and through good times. May you continue to be my best friend and love in the years to come. Thank you for being an influence to who i am today. I love you.

I can read a lot of things, but the one thing i can't read is your heart.

Christmas?

2010-12-25T00:23:00.004+08:00

This time last year, i was Form 4.
This time last year, i was setting up a Christmas surprise for my family.
This time last year, i had a job.
This time last year, i was getting over someone.
This time last year, i was...happy.

This time this year? I have no clue where i stand.

Merry Christmas everybody =)

Encouragement

2010-11-24T15:24:00.002+08:00

I love my mom.

thunk

2010-11-21T00:49:00.003+08:00

I just realized something. I can't believe it took me so long to have this perspective, i could kick myself.

Adults aren't really THAT interested in what you have to say. Granted, a teenager like me isn't all that mature, but i think i'm entitled to my own opinions and thoughts. AND that i should be allowed to express them, even if it's, well, pointless to some extent. A great extent, actually.

Oh wait, that's why i have a blog =) Silly me.

Still, i'm not gonna ignore my children. I promise. Pinky-swear =)

Different

2010-11-12T23:31:00.002+08:00

Isn't it funny how day by day nothing changes, but when we look back everything's different?

The last day of school. Wow, that feels weird to say. No longer will we ever band together as a group of different cliques; all of us will surely go our own way. Everything changing, moving forward; all i want to do is shout 'STOP!', take a deep breath, and go at things my own pace.

Sadly, life isn't that way. We don't get to pause time, slow down or relive the past. The only thing we can do is capture those special moments, whether in our memories or in photographs; in pictures or videos, in a vain attempt to preserve them. Because memories fade. Photographs, pictures & videos may get lost or erased, disappear in formatting or accidentally deleted.

However, we still do it. Why? Because they are what makes us who we are. The things & situations, whether a little or a lot, whether big or small, shapes & moulds our character and personality. Memories define us, what we've been through, what kind of person we are like. Whatmore, the people who share the experiences with us enrich our lives in the process. Maybe that's why we try to remember.

If i could capture down every detail of my life, i would. If i could relive my past for a day, i DEFINITELY would. But would i want to stay there? No. As comforting and as nostalgic as it would be, people need change. We need to move forward in life. It's okay to reminisce. It's okay to miss the yesteryears. It's okay to look back to the past...but it's not okay to lose sight of the future and what it holds for us.

To Kampung Kenanga, i'll never see you guys in the same setting again. Yes, we may be cliquey, but it was a harmonized balance. The good and the bad, the hardworking and the lazy, the delinquents and the nerds. Yep, i have to say it. Maybe we're not the most smartest, or the most hardworking, or the most united. But we do have bonds. Whether those bonds will eventually be broken, i don't know. Whatever happens, happens. All i know is, that i'll definitely look back, whether it be weeks, months, years or decades from now, and remember these years that shaped me.

Being grown up isn't half as fun as growing up.

OKAY! SERIOUS TIME IS OVER!
Time for more trivial matters! =D

What happened today at school:

I arrived at school(early as usual), fully well knowing that my days at this school are numbered. Sat with Daryl for a little while before heading up to class with Wei Zheng and him. The class was locked, so i chatted with Chanette for a bit before sitting down at the side of the corridor. Pretty soon, Nick Soo, Brandon & Ian came along. They brought their shirts and markers for people to sign =) Those were the first signatures of the day we collected! =D

In what seemed like no time at all, things started picking up pace. More and more people kept arriving, and the class was unlocked. Inside, it was a flurry of activity; most people were going around asking their friends to sign their shirts & books, and later on in the day, bags. Brandon Wong even brought his groin-guard for people to sign! How unbelievable is that!

Then, Miss Yeow came in and asked for volunteers to help arrange the tables in the classes right opposite the corridor from ours. Nobody really wanted to go(except for Kisheaan), but in the end, a few of our well-mannered students like Daniel, David, Thien Yik & Chris went. The T-shirt/book signing continued on, and the smell of markers was in the air.

Suddenly, a teacher came in and started ordering us around. She split us into 2 groups and we had to go to the opposite classes to arrange the tables. Mel and I sneaked away for a bit to say goodbye to our lovely 5 Kenanga class(sob sob), got frightened by Kisheaan (XD) and then got halau-ed out of the classroom by the teacher. Melissa managed to salvage the Malaysian flag and a puncher though, and I the birthday corner that i made for the class in the beginning of the year.

I spent about 15 minutes collecting the autographs for the class T-shirt while gaining some for my personal book and shirt as well. Took a few photos too, but it's hard to capture the raw essence of our class in a picture. At one point, Yueh Sern kept singing songs but changing the lyrics. Of course, most of it was about insulting Kisheaan, but hey, it was creative and funny, nobody could deny that XD

In the SPM hall, we were given a small piece of pink paper to stick onto our desks. It comprised of the subjects we were taking, mainly. I'm taking 10 =) Then, they gave us a bigger piece and told us that we have to bring it everyday to sit for SPM. Mine is kinda dirty now, but that's really not my fault. I hope they'll accept it. Everybody kept mingling around at this time, going to each others tables to talk, going to other classes too. It was a...'free' sort of atmosphere. Must be because it's the last day.

Then, we were all called down to the canteen for recess. Not many people were interested in eating though, everybody was more towards shirt-or-bag-signing. Chong Lims' shirt had to be the awesome-est, there wasn't a proper blank space for anybody to write a long message on. And the best part is, i don't think he used a permanent marker! I doubt he'll even wear it in the future though =)

Moving on, we were all called to the dewan for the ilmu restu thing. Or, in Wee's words, knowledge blessing, heh. Came in late and sat at the very back with Mel, Kim, Leon, Brandon, Jayson, Jovy, Yew Chun and a few others. Couldn't hear a word the teachers were saying in front. Well, not until one of them threatened to bring us up to the front, you could hear a pin drop then. But the noise picked up again right after that. What can i say? We are who we are.

Skipping all the speeches, it was time to shake hands with the teachers. There were a few that stood out in my mind: Datin Tan, Pn. Asmani & Pn. Azlina. A few of them shook hands and said that they expected me to get an A, like for Accounts & Sejarah, but i don't think i can do it. I'll try my best anyway. One thing funny though, that Moral teacher still can't remember my name after 2 years of teaching me XD How do i know? Her eyes flicked to my nametag before addressing me and shaking my hand, heh.

Everybody got a complimentary see-through, plastic zip-lock bag with stationary in it for SPM. Sponsored by Taylors =) Pn. Misliah handed them out. Surprisingly, she remembered my name. Or maybe she glanced at the nametag and i didn't notice. Okay, okay, no negative thoughts.

We had to go back up to class after that to receive our report cards, forecast results, trial paper slips, co-curriculum books and whatnot. Got more signatures on my shirt here, and addressed Miss Yeow 'Good Morning' for the very last time. It was the most enthusiastic-sounding greeting i've ever heard us given to her.

So while i went around snickering at some of our classmates' child photos, Miss Yeow was giving out all our certs and stuff from our files. Apparently, Daniel, Chris and my forecast results had some errors, they magically took Bio for trial and i was missing Chemistry. Weird. I wasn't all that keen on mentioning the error, but brave Melissa stood up and charged right into the beasts' lair. Not that she was angry, phew.

Yeah, so when we were let off 30 minutes early by Miss Yeow, i decided to stay awhile with Chris and Min Yen in the class. Said my goodbyes to Daniel & David, great twins, nice boys, awesome people through hugs =) Man, i'm gonna miss them. Min Yen started to clean the class up (i know, right?!) while Chris studied Chemistry. I helped them both out a little until it was time to leave.

On passing 5 Seroja...wow, the place was a mess. I guess they were so happy that they were leaving school that they trashed the class. The most beautiful class decorations and hangings were torn down, and a few tables were overturned. Looked like a frat party had gone through it. I shook my head and continued down, only to find that all the lights of 5 Dahlia were turned on, and the fans were at a maximum, too. Needless to say, i did a good deed that day, and helped to save energy.

Passing the A Famosa corridor, a few people like Syn Yi, Geraldine, Nicholas and Chong Lim were present. There were more, but i can't remember who. Apparently, a few people had taken to scribbling their signatures on the mural of the wall. Now that's very good and all, except i think that the students who painted might not be so pleased. Well, they always repaint that area anyway, so i bet it'll change next year. Because one thing i learnt, nothing is ever permanent. Except for God =)

So yeah, went to the canteen, sat down for awhile, met up with Min Yen again and talked over a pack of Rocky & Oreos =) Went home and gave the last 2 Oreos to Jayson.

So thats my last day of high school.
I just wanted to remember every detail, no matter how insignificant it was.
Because the little things matter.

Gone

2010-11-11T17:03:00.007+08:00

No more waking up at 6AM in the morning for school.
No more putting on that horrible school uniform.
No more sleeping in the tapak till my legs turn numb.
No more welcoming friends by waving at them excitedly in the morning.
No more mini poke wars with friends in the morning.
No more disregarding the teachers during perhimpunan.
No more ignoring the prefects when they try to shush us.
No more trying to hide our tie-less necks, long fingernails or ankle socks from the prefects.
No more trudging up to class using the "Staircase of Friendship/Ultimate Friendship".
No more shouting, sleeping, joking or talking in class.
No more homework. (On second thought, that's not such a bad idea)
No more creating havoc & mayhem when there's no teacher around.
No more loitering, eating & breaking the rules in class.
No more watching classmates getting caught for doing something they shouldn't.
No more doing Accounts during BM or BM during Physics or Physics during English or..(well, you get the idea)
No more checking on Facebook with our cellphones, listening to MP3s/iPods or playing with our gadgets in class.
No more mocking, making fun & bonding with friends everyday.
No more wishing that certain teachers would just stop talking/nagging/grumbling/droning.
No more being in the same room with those same 33 people almost everyday.
No more waiting excitedly for the bell to ring for recess.
No more passing notes in class.
NO MORE COPYING HOMEWORK T_T
No more laughing at the littlest things.
No more trying to snap candid shots of people.
No more discussing about our futures and what are we planning to do after high school.
No more getting lucky in exams and haggling teachers for that extra mark to turn our results up a grade.
No more calling friends by their endearing, made-up nicknames.
No more late nights cramming for that History exam tomorrow.
No more waiting impatiently for the bell to signal for returning home.

So, i guess this is it then.
Time to flip the page and open a brand new chapter in our lives.
Goodbye, high school.
I'll miss you.

Paranoia

2010-09-24T00:00:00.002+08:00

As the tendrils of doubt drift yet again across my brooding mind, i can only but form one coherent thought.

This is NOT normal behaviour.

I really should've seen her when i had the chance =/

Inception

2010-09-14T02:13:00.003+08:00

MY fault...? I don't see how that can be...

True, i haven't been doing anything to appease it lately. But i tried, once.

Confrontation sucks.

That tone, that voice...
Exactly what i was afraid of.
Nah, never in a million years =)

And it all started with a collar.

The Hanging Tree

2010-08-31T02:46:00.001+08:00

Are you, are you
coming to the tree
where they strung up a man they say murdered three
Strange things did happen here
No stranger would it be
If we met up at midnight in the hanging tree

Are you, are you
coming to the tree
Where the dead man called out for his love to flee
Strange things did happen here
No stranger would it be
If we met up at midnight in the hanging tree

Are you, are you
coming to the tree
Where I told you to run so we'd both be free
Strange things did happen here
No stranger would it be
If we met up at midnight in the hanging tree

Are you, are you
coming to the tree
Wear a necklace of rope side by side with me
Strange things did happen here
No stranger would it be
If we met up at midnight in the hanging tree

It haunts me to no end.

A Father's Love

2010-08-13T13:16:00.003+08:00

Years ago, there was a very wealthy man who, with his devoted young son, shared a passion for art collecting. Together they traveled around the world, adding only the finest art treasures to their collection. Priceless works by Picasso, Van Gogh, Monet and many others adorned the walls of the family estate. The widowed elder man looked on with satisfaction as his only child became an experienced art collector. The son's trained eye and sharp business mind caused his father to beam with pride as they dealt with art collectors around the world.

As winter approached, war engulfed the nation, and the young man left to serve his country. After only a few short weeks, his father received a telegram. His beloved son was missing in action. The art collector anxiously awaited more news, fearing he would never see his son again. Within days, his fears were confirmed; the young man had died while rushing a fellow soldier to a medic. Distraught and lonely, the old man faced the upcoming Christmas holidays with anguish and sadness. The joy of the season, that he and his son had so looked forward to, would visit his house no longer.

On Christmas morning, a knock on the door awakened the depressed old man. As he walked to the door, the masterpieces of art on the walls only reminded him that his son was not coming home. As he opened the door, he was greeted by a soldier with a large package in his hands. He introduced himself to the man by saying, "I was a friend of your son's. I was the one he was rescuing when he died. May I come in for a few moments? I have something to show you." As the two began to talk, the soldier told of how the man's son had told everyone of his, not to mention his father's, love of fine art.

"I am an artist," said the soldier, "and I want to give you this." As the old man unwrapped the package, the paper gave way to reveal a portrait of the man's son. Though the world would never consider it the work of a genius, the painting featured the young man's face in striking detail. Overcome with emotion, the man thanked the soldier, promising to hang the picture above the fireplace. A few hours later, after the soldier had departed, the old man set about his task. True to his word, the painting went above the fireplace, pushing aside thousands of dollars worth of art. His task completed, the old man sat in his chair and spent Christmas gazing at the gift he had been given.

During the days and weeks that followed, the man realized that even though his son was no longer with him, the boy's life would live on because of those he had touched. He would soon learn that his son had rescued dozens of wounded soldiers before a bullet stilled his caring heart. As the stories of his son's gallantry continued to reach him, fatherly pride and satisfaction began to ease his grief. The painting of his son soon became his most prized possession, far eclipsing any interest in the pieces for which museums around the world clamored. He told his neighbors it was the greatest gift he had ever received.

The following spring, the old man became ill and passed away. The art world was in anticipation, that with the collector's passing, and his only son dead, those paintings would be sold at auction. According to the will of the old man, all of the art works would be auctioned on Christmas Day, the day he had received the greatest gift. The day soon arrived and art collectors from around the world gathered to bid on some of the world's most spectacular paintings. Dreams would be fulfilled this day; greatness would be achieved as many would claim, "I have the greatest collection."

The auction began with a painting that was not on any museum's list. It was the painting of the man's son. The auctioneer asked for an opening bid, but the room was silent. "Who will open the bidding with $100?" he asked. Minutes passed, and no one spoke. From the back of the room came a voice, "Who cares about that painting? It's just a picture of his son." "Let's forget about it and move on to the good stuff," more voices echoed in agreement. "No, we have to sell this one first," replied the auctioneer. "Now, who will take the son?"

Finally, a neighbor of the old man spoke. "Will you take ten dollars for the painting? That's all I have. I knew the boy, so I'd like to have it." "I have ten dollars. Will anyone go higher?" called the auctioneer. After more silence, the auctioneer said, "Going once, going twice, gone." The gavel fell. Cheers filled the room and someone exclaimed, "Now we can get on with it and bid on the real treasures!" The auctioneer looked at the audience and announced that the auction was over.

Stunned disbelief quieted the room. Someone spoke up and asked, "What do you mean, it's over? We didn't come here for a picture of some old guy's son. What about all of these paintings? There are millions of dollars worth of art here! I demand that you explain what is going on!" The auctioneer replied, "It's very simple. According to the will of the father, whoever takes the son... gets it all."

Puts things into perspective, doesn't it? Just as those art collectors discovered on Christmas Day, the message is still the same: the love of a Father, whose greatest joy came from his Son who went away and gave his life rescuing others. And because of that Father's love, whoever takes the Son gets it all.

Author Unknown.

Servicing the Nation

2010-07-15T20:47:00.004+08:00

The bell rang. I opened my bleary eyes.

Man, sleeping through 2 periods of Physics sure felt good. Perhaps it was the cough medicine that made it specially significant and restful. Hm.

The class was in a flurry, a buzz of excitement and energy. Our Physics teacher had just walked out. I glanced around sleepily. My inactive mind tried to take in the sequence of events. Some of my classmates were leaving the classroom...?

Of course...it's PJK period now.

Most of the guys were already out of the class, running off to play their sports. But somehow, there was more activity than usual. A feeling of nervousness and suspense hung in the air...even the Form 5's from other classes outside the classroom were slightly more active than usual. None of them looked very lethargic as they conversed with each other...somehow, they were all discussing about the same thing...

What were they talking about..? A faint curiousity rose in me. I ignored it. News would come. I looked around the classroom. The usual people who skipped PJK were there...Melissa, Leon, Li Ann...and a few others. My ears picked up a snatch of the conversation between Li Ann and Leon.

"...I seriously hope i don't kena wei..."

Oh....right. Today's the day.

The day the selections for National Service, or more commonly known as NS, will be revealed today. Basically, the government selectively drafts 17-year olds to go on a 3-month long program, sort of like a camp. No wonder everybody outside was shouting questions to our classmates.

Leon shot a look at me.

"Wen, are you gonna check?" he asked.
".....hmm...?" I said sleepily.
"The NS results. We're going to check it later, at 9 AM." replied Leon.

I took my phone out of my pocket and stared at the screen. The clock said 8:43 AM. Just roughly 15 minutes to go. More awake now, i slid it back into my pocket and got out of my seat.

"How do you check?" I queried.
"Sms 'PLKN SEMAK your IC number' and send it to 15888." was the reply i got from Leon.
"Is it accurate...?" I asked, doubtful.
"Yeah. But you can only sms them after 9 AM." Li Ann said.

National Service...i wasn't quite sure what to make of it. Most of the people were of the opinion that it was a horrible program that the government passes off as a camp. The real reason NS came into existence was to encourage friendship between teenagers from different races and ethnic groups.

However, there have been a number of major incidents ever since NS was introduced in 2003. Some kids have actually died there. 17 deaths, to be exact. And several rape cases too. Although i didn't know much about it, i knew it happened. I've also heard that it was a place of torture, that they make you stand under the burning hot sun as punishment.

But i've heard other good things as well, like the fact that they feed you around 6 meals a day. Most of the dishes will be curry-based though, and it leans more to Malay food. Maybe one of the downsides to this is you actually return fatter than how you started off...

As i mused about all these things, i began to ponder. Sure, i don't know much about NS. People say it's a waste of time, but what if it teaches me responsibility? I don't know if i want to undergo physical labour though...

Whatever God wants me to do, I'll do it. If NS is what He planned for me, so be it.

I resolved.

* * * * * * *

Ever since i sent the message at 9.35 AM, i've been checking my phone every 10 minutes or so. However, i didn't feel any dread or terror as to whether i've been picked or not. I felt pretty relaxed, actually. So far, Melissa was chosen for NS. Leon, Li Ann and Wee Liam weren't picked. The others haven't received their messages yet.

Until i checked my phone one more time and saw that i received a message. I brought my eyes to the screen and the word Tahniah! jumped out at me. The first words that jumped to my mouth was

'Oh, shit!'

Yeah, it wasn't very polite. But i was shocked. An instanteaneous reaction. Nicholas, Jian Li, Hock Cheong and Aeren were around me at that moment, and they could guess what happened. They clamoured and asked to see my message, I gave them my phone. Slowly, my shock morphed into disbelief.

I got picked...? Man, this cannot be happening...geez..

But there was no doubt about that. The message was there, as clear as day. I kept staring at it, wishing that it would change, that it would somehow actually morph into a 'Maaf, anda tidak terpilih...'. But of course, it didn't.

And right after that, fear. I kept thinking about all the news i heard, all the bad things, rumours or not, that had occured. The negativity started pouring in and i was afraid. I was afraid that if i went, i might never come back. I mean, i'm naive. I know that. And i'm afraid that i'll just get tricked, just like that.

However, my previous resolution entered my head. Whatever God wants me to do, I'll do it. If NS is what He planned for me, so be it. I tried to quell my fears. God won't let anything bad happen to me. He must have sent me this for a reason. I started to get excited. The prospect of learning to be a more responsible and independent person interested me.

And of course, there was nervousness. I was nervous that something would go wrong, that i'd mess up, that i won't make any friends there. That there'll be other unscrupulous parties that i've heard about. Especially about the 3rd batch. There are 3 batches in all, and for some reason, everybody said the 3rd batch was the worst. (And when i say everybody, i mean EVERYBODY) That all the gangsters and high-school dropouts were selectively chosen to attend that batch. I didn't know what to make of it; i didn't understand. How could the government know and single out all these people?

As i was thinking about all this back in my own seat, our BM teacher was teaching the class. Of course, i didn't bother to take down anything she said, although she was a good teacher. Suddenly, two rows in front of me, Shawn jumped up with a loud exclaimation of excitement. Of course, the whole of the class knew what he didn't get chosen for, but teacher was puzzled, which made it kind of funny.

And it was funny. Today, those who didn't get picked were so joyful that when they got their message, they shouted and jumped for joy. A fair number of chosen ones were feeling down the whole day. Some were angry, some were sad, some were disappointed. Heck, there were even people who wanted to be picked so badly (Daniel Tham) that they kept shouting that they'll take the places of the people who don't want to go. It was a funny type of atmosphere.

Yes, i guess i'll be going for NS. And you know what? I'm gonna make the most of it.

Because this is His will.

2010-07-09T08:28:00.002+08:00

So I'm imperfect. Everybody has their shortcomings. I have attitude problems, flaws, a temper and mood swings. So why do you pick on me like you expect me to be perfect? Whatever i do, whatever i try, you're not satisfied. Might as well i revert back to my original self? When i was even worse than this? When i was selfish, when i didn't care, when i didn't give a damn? Why, do you only spot my imperfections than look at the whole picture? You pick on it, poke it, prod it, shove it and sometimes, i think that's the only thing that you see. Like what the hell. Isn't this enough for you? Let me answer that. No. It's never enough.

Overprotected

2010-06-16T23:05:00.005+08:00

How many of you have overprotective parents? I do. And sometimes, i really hate it. Oh yes, there are many of you who will say this:

"It's for your own good."

They're just doing it because they love and worry for me. I understand that they have good intentions. But seriously, it's not helping me in the long term. At times, being too overprotective can cause more harm than good.

When i was younger, during my late years of primary, i didn't fully understand. I would use the terms 'jail', 'trapped' and 'prisoner' very often without abandon to my friends. I felt suffocated because i was never allowed to experience anything. I was not allowed out to parks, outings and any other events without parental supervision. I was not allowed out of the house at all. I felt like they were cutting a huge chunk of the teenage experience from my life.

It got to the point where i was afraid of asking their permission for anything because their answer would be a negative 99% of the time. If i REALLY wanted to go out, i would beg my friends to ask them for me, because they would never listen to ME. However, my friends always stood a chance. My friends are one of the most important things in my life. Because they understand me. We connect and reach out to one another. Somehow, it's hard to do that with my parents. Because of that, i lose my temper easily and snap at them.

This story is just an example i got off the net, something along my point of view. You don't have to read it, just skip the italic text.

* * * * * * *

It is a natural parental instinct to protect our children.

However, I frequently see parents taking protection to the extreme and as a result, their children are unprepared to face the world.

The most recent example happened at my daughter's swimming lesson last week. The teacher took the young swimmers (my daughter and one other girl) into a deeper area of the pool. While they are certainly not water-safe yet, both girls could swim from one end of the pool to the other without assistance. The teacher took them to work on new strokes in the deeper area, so the girls would not rely on being able to touch the bottom.

The mother of the other child quickly ran over to the teacher and told her that she doesn't allow her child in the "deep end" of the pool and asked her to please move back to the area where the children could stand on their own.

The teacher then explained her reasoning to the mom, to no avail.

After a five-minute conversation (during a 25-minute class), the teacher moved the girls to an area where they could touch the bottom. For the rest of the class, every time they worked on new strokes, my daughter would stop midway and rest - the very action the teacher was trying to prevent.

It's important to mention that the pool is fully staffed with lifeguards and ratio in the swim class was 2:1. Additionally, the teachers are well trained and certainly would not do anything to jeopardize the health or safety of the children.

I felt extremely frustrated. What right did that mother have to make a decision that would negatively affect my child?

And doesn't she consider the negative impact on her own daughter? In a single overprotective incident, she has zapped her daughter's confidence.

The next day, the little girl refused to get in the pool at all and cried for several minutes at the edge until her mother rescued her. She sat and watched the rest of the class and never got back in the pool.

I'm sure the mother's intention in not letting her daughter go into the deep end was to protect her, but if her daughter grows up being scared of water and unable to swim, how safe is she?

No matter what extreme lengths you may go to protect your children, it is impossible to create a completely safe environment. While you should take reasonable measures to keep your children safe and healthy, being overprotective prevents children from experiencing life, both the positive and the challenges.

I once had a friend who was so overprotective that she wouldn't let her daughter play on the play structures at the park. While I know that her intentions were good, the result was extremely negative for her daughter - at 6, she was the only first-grader in her class who couldn't start herself on the swings or make her way across the monkey bars. To this day she is not a very physically active child.

And what was the worst that could happen? Yes, she could fall and get a cut or bruise or even break a limb - all injuries that could heal in a few weeks. But the message that the mother was sending, that the child can't handle the physical exploration that all the other children can, is a shot to her confidence that may never heal.

Parents don't just tend to be overprotective in terms of physical harm to their children. I also see parents go overboard in protecting their children's feelings. You know the ones. Those parents who change dance studios because their daughter didn't make the dance company or who quit the soccer team because their child isn't a starter.

There was an incident a few years ago where my daughter's whole class was invited to a party - except for two students. While the mother of the birthday girl was obviously wrong in allowing her daughter to exclude two children, the parents of the two girls handled it in entirely different ways. One called the mother of the birthday girl and demanded that her child be included, which she was - begrudgingly. The other mom let her daughter hurt, consoling her, but not interfering. Did the first mom prevent her daughter from hurting? Of course not. The emotional pain came from not being invited in the first place. All that child learned was that she's not emotionally strong enough to handle rejection and that her mom will always step in to take care of her.

If as an adult that girl isn't invited to the wedding of a co-worker, will she expect her mom to call and insist on an invitation?

All children need an opportunity to explore the world physically and emotionally without constant interference from their parents in order to become confident, responsible and independent adults.

* * * * * * *

I'm frustrated. I'm never allowed to do anything. You can't protect me forever, you know. Every time you try, you're just weakening me, spoon-feeding me, lowering my chances of survival in the outside world. And yet, you encourage me to be responsible and independent. How am i supposed to do that when you never let me experience anything for myself? All my life i've been cooped up, and now you're expecting me to suddenly know everything? What is more, you hit me hard on my flaws, on the things that i am unable to do, comparing me with others, making me feel...unworthy.

When you are gone, and yes it hurts me to say it, one day you will be gone. I won't have anyone to rely on but myself. And what happens if i'm not ready to face the world? Yes, i'll most probably crumble and fall. Either that, i'll stay at home, too scared to venture out, always fearful of what baddies out there that might get me. And thus, the phrase living life to the fullest can never be achieved by the likes of me.

Please. It's MY life to live. However, it may be too late because i've already been affected. Since i've never been allowed to do anything for myself, i have low self-confidence, i'm shy and i worry too much about what other people think of me. I depend on others for almost everything. Do you know that i don't even know how to use the LRT? I don't know how to take a cab, catch a bus and even ride a train.

For now, I can only bear with it until i am of age. Of course, i won't be free completely. But at least i am aware of what i am missing out. I'll try to find what i've missed out on and ask people to teach me. Slowly, i'll try standing on my own two feet...

But of course, thanks for trying.
Your intentions are well.

Lost Phone

2010-06-04T18:20:00.003+08:00

This might be a little overdue, but better late than never.

Click picture for full view, thanks =)

The phone's Bluetooth name was Remove Detonator, so that should clear up any misconceptions =)

*sigh*
I miss my phone.
But on the bright side, Wen Jun was kind enough to loan me his spare one. So there will be no shortage of entertainment for me! A big thank you to you, Wen Jun!!

Shut Up or I'll Defenestrate You

2010-06-01T23:51:00.009+08:00

Didn't update my blog in a month.

Why?

Reason being the existence of these insane materials made of cellulose pulp, derived mainly from wood, rags, and certain grasses, which was processed into flexible sheets or rolls by deposit from an aqueous suspension with a series of questions and problems designed to determine knowledge, intelligence, or ability printed on them that required me to consume my periods, specifically designated to the pursuit of knowledge, as by reading, observation, or research that kept me conscious throughout the hours of darkness.

In simpler terms:

Papers. Examinations. Time. Studying. Midnight oil.

The good news is, there are only 3 more days left till the examinations are officially over. Then we'll be free for another few more short months. Before we're forced to sit for our trials. Then SPM. *sigh* Time passes too fast.

After this week, i'll be going off to camp straightaway. Can't wait! 4 whole days of fun and relaxation. Not to mention being spiritually restored, i'm ashamed to admit that i've strayed some.

And right after that, there'll be only a week left of the holidays, so gotta work on the encouragement board for Beta Camp, heh. Not to mention the class pages for the yearbook.

Anyway, i read something interesting in the papers yesterday, and i'd like to share it.

* * * * * * *

A primary schoolteacher asked her students to write an essay about what they would like God to do for them. At the end of the day, while marking the essays, one made her very emotional.

Her husband, who had just walked in, saw her crying and asked, "What happened?"

"Read this. It's by one of my students."

"Oh God, tonight I ask you for something very special: Turn me into a television set. I want to take its place. Have my own special place in the house. And have my family around ME.

"I want to be taken seriously when I talk, to be the centre of attention and be heard without interruptions or questions. I want to receive the same special care that the TV gets when it is not working. Have the company of my dad when he comes home from work, even when he is tired.

"And i want my mum to want me when she is sad and upset, instead of ignoring me. I want my brothers to fight to be with me... I want to feel that the family will leave everything aside, every now and then, just to spend some time with me.

"And last, but not least, make it that I can make them all happy and entertain them. God, I don't ask you for much... I just want to live like every TV."

At that, the man cried: "Poor kid. What horrible parents!"

The teacher looked up and said,"That essay is our son's!"

* * * * * * *

I'll pretend that i didn't see
And turn my face

No use in small talk anyways
...

Confrontation

2010-05-15T22:29:00.003+08:00

v.tr.

To come face to face with, especially with defiance or hostility: I wish to confront my accuser in a court of law.
To bring face to face with: The defendant was confronted with incontrovertible evidence of guilt.
To come up against; encounter: confronted danger at every turn.

I don't like confrontation. It risks hurt, pain and negativity.

Hell yeah!!

2010-04-13T15:14:00.003+08:00

Omigosh.

You would not believe how fast my internet is right now.
So let me show you.

Just look at that, man.

Beautiful.

For the some of you who might not get it...

The red highlighted part is the one you should look at.

'Nuff said.
I'm off to enjoy my internet privileges now.

What If's

2010-04-11T21:29:00.002+08:00

Thanks Brian! You got me hooked onto this now XD

We're all attracted to what we can't have.
It's a fact.

Ugh, so much stuff to do nowadays. Exams are next month, Moral project deadlines are looming closer, Editorial's just around the corner, camps are nearing, workshops and projects are arriving at my doorstep. All in all, busy, busy, busy.

So...i've no time left. Buh bye.

Zip, zip, zip.

Why Red? 20 Reasons.

2010-03-17T13:39:00.017+08:00

Recently, not one, but two of my friends asked me:

"Why you always wear red wannnn?"

Edmund even joked that i had nothing but red shirts and black pants in my wardrobe. What's wrong with wearing red? I can state 20 good reasons why red is a good colour to wear!

Reason #01 : Red is my favourite colour.

There's really not much to argue with that. I like red. I used to adore blue, but that was a longgg time ago. That doesn't mean i don't like blue though. Oh, and did you know about 50% of the people in our class like red? Miss Yeow did a study on it. Okay i will stop digressing.

Reason #02 : Red is one of the 7 colours of the rainbow.

The spectrum that make up invisible, white light are Red, Orange, Yellow, Green, Blue, Indigo & Violet. Do you see Black or Brown or Grey in any of them? No! Red is one of those special colors! Yay!

Reason #03 : Red is a primary colour.

Primary colors are sets of colours that can be combined to make a useful range of colours. Red can spawn Orange, Pink and even Purple. Click HERE for a long list of the variations of red. The diversity of this colour is amazing.

Reason #04 : Stop signs & traffic lights

Red has Warning Power. Saves lives. Need i say more?

Reason #05 : Blood

RED blood cells? Haemogoblin? Our life force, people.

Reason #06 : Longest wavelength in spectrum

Hah! Beat that, other colours with shorter wavelength! There is a reason why Young used a RED colour filter for his double-slit experiment! Not all you other ~~lesser~~ normal colours, psh.

Reason #07 : Psychology

Red depicts courage, bravery, energy, heat and who knows what else. It's also associated with emotions that 'stir the blood', including anger, love, passion, pain & sacrifice.

Reason #08 : Infrared

The name means below red (from the Latin infra, "below"), red being the color of the longest wavelengths of visible light. IR light has a longer wavelength (a lower frequency) than that of red light. This progression from left to right is from long wavelength to short wavelength, and from low frequency to high frequency light. The region just below the visible in wavelength is called the near ultraviolet. Did you know that we are emitting infrared rays as we speak? Infrared rays are produced by all objects with a temperature that is MORE than absolute zero temperature. Infrared is used for night vision, taking pictures at a long distance with satellites, remote controls for televisions, radios and automatic gates. It's also used in the radar system to detect far off objects. Plus, it can penetrate clouds =D

Reason #09 : Mars

This is the reason why Mars is alternatively named The Red Planet.

Reason #10 : Sunrise & Sunset

That sunup/sundown is beautiful, man. You can't argue that.

Reason #11 : Red is natural.

Tomatoes, chillies, apples and flowers (national flower, Hibiscus!) are all naturally red in colour.

Reason #12 : Deck o' Cards

Cmannn. The cards we use to play poker. Blackjack. Shithead. Universally used for magic tricks. Even tarot. Out of diamonds (♦), spades (♠), hearts (♥) and clubs (♣), there are only two colors. Red and black. Why didn't they choose blue and black? Or green and blue? This is why red is awesome.

Reason #13 : Events

Valentines & Chinese New Year are traditionally associated with the colour red. Hearts, love, angpaos and fireworks. It's a cause for celebration!

Reason #14 : National Wear Red Day

Yes, there is a National Wear Red Day, held on the first Friday in February each year, is a day when Americans nationwide wear red to show their support for women's heart disease awareness. What a great cause. Click HERE to find out more.

Reason #15 : Alcohol

Red wine?
Red bull?
Bloody Mary? Blood is generally red in color, right?

Reason #16 : Aurora

Ranging hues of pink, red & green, red is also one of the colours that's makes up part of this amazing natural phenomenon! The Northern Lights rock!

Reason #17 : Gryffindor

Because Harry Potter rocks.

Reason #18 : Stars

Stars appear to be exclusively white at first glance. But if we look carefully, we can notice a range of colors: blue, white, red, and even gold. Cool stars (i.e., Spectral Type K and M) radiate most of their energy in the red and infrared region of the electromagnetic spectrum and thus appear red, while hot stars (i.e., Spectral Type O and B) emit mostly at blue and ultra-violet wavelengths, making them appear blue or white.

Reason #19 : Animals

When used about animal coloration red usually refers to a brownish, reddish-brown or ginger color. Interestingly red appears to be rarely used in names of animals which are a brighter blood-red or scarlet color, for instance the carmine bee-eater, the scarlet tanager and the cardinal. Still, either the animals are red in color, or they have the word 'red' in their name, such as the red fox, red squirrel, red deer etc.

Reason #20 : Attraction

It is scientifically proven that the colour red attracts men to women more compared to other colours. It's true. Click here to find out more!

Conclusion : Red is GREAT.
But by all means, feel free to do a post on your favourite colour.
Because other colours rock equally as much too =)

Sunlight

2010-03-14T21:40:00.002+08:00

Off to Sunway Monday tomorrow, guys!

Mel and I were watching HIMYM on Friday when there was a thunderclap. A sudden, sharp 'bzzzt' came from the computer. The screen turned black for a moment before reverting back to normal. Everything seemed fine. No burn smells, nobody electrocuted. Except for the internet connection. Thank goodness my mom had a spare modem =)

Hurry up, downloads! =) Need to get you all updated for my iPod before leaving to Bandung!

It's raining right now. Cool, cool, relief.

'Sheep' is a cute word.

Trying to catch the sunlight in your eyes.

Movie Moment

2010-03-11T22:02:00.004+08:00

Had a total movie moment in class 2 days ago. During Chinese exams.

Life lessons from Puan Tan

Everybody was just sitting around, minding their own business, mingling, since all of us don't take Chinese. Puan Tan was sitting at the back of the class, talking to another group of students. Suddenly, somebody's cellphone rang. What was more, it was THE Nokia ringtone, so naturally, everyone could recognize it. Everybody was chuckling and even teacher was smiling as Ian stood up to answer his call. Good thing she wasn't the discipline teacher anymore, so she didn't bust him. Total movie moment because he was sitting right in the middle of the room, so every single one of us could tell what was going on. Kinda hilarious, but maybe you have to be there to get it.

And just before that, the whole of 5 Kenanga were in the library with a few other people from other classes who don't take Chinese. We were kinda noisy, i guess. Put a hundred students in a room and there's bound to be chit-chat, right? And there was this librarian teacher. She's only hired to be in charge of the library or something. Annoyed, she switched off the air conditioning and fans so that it'll be hot, so that we would stop talking. Of course it didn't work. At one point, she got so annoyed, she turned off the lights too.

We were all so exasperated by then. I mean, come on. It's Malaysia. The heat. 100 students. In a room. Sweltering. Shaun got so fed up, he ran to the controls and turned everything on when the teacher wasn't looking. But when she knew, she got all pissed and turned everything off again, shouting at us to get out. OF COURSE WE HAPPILY OBLIGED. Nobody wanted to stay in there with her anyway.

It's these type of antics that make me feel entertained.

So...

2010-03-10T22:49:00.002+08:00

APPARENTLY BANDUNG DOESN'T HAVE A BEACH.
But there's wildlife! =)

Emotions

2010-03-07T17:25:00.005+08:00

They hinder me.

....why?

if i could just get my grip

steel myself

let go of my fear

nervousness

uncertainty

doubt and worry

...

i am sure i could better the situation.

I will NOT let this go unresolved.

Downloading 2.3%...

2010-03-05T15:58:00.009+08:00

You had me hanging on your last word
And now I'm feeling a little less than trusting

Amazingly, only after the first week of exams, everybody feels more relaxed. I guess that's cause all the killer papers like Add Maths, Accounts and Sejarah are over now. Only few more days of Malay, English, Physics and exams are over! And a few days after that...

Self-explanatory.

Of course, there's no guarantee that i'll be able to go, but oh, how i wish i could. To just be able to hang out for my friends after exams, at a park, not a shopping mall where all we do is watch a movie and walk around with absolutely nothing to do until our legs drop off. I'd rather my legs drop off while i'm having fun in water, so that buoyancy can support me!!

Downloading Seether Discography, 49%...
I'm kind of downloading all my songs album by album now, so i won't miss any songs out, even the lame ones. Yeah, i want it complete. Blame the perfectionist in me. Oh, and years of an unorganized song folder. But i must say, it is MUCH easier to download album by album, that way you don't have to look for any of the songs you want. But that's just my opinion.

And after i upload ALL the albums in my iPod, I'M OFF TO VACATION!!! Can't wait for the sea, the sand, the sun, the surf, the sky! I'm already dreaming about it, when i can go off and get browner, burnt out and happily exhausted. Where am i going to?

BANDUNG!!!

No, not that type of bandung!!

It's Bandung, Indonesia. I have yet to know where are we (my parents and I) are going, but as long as there's a beach, i don't care, i'm happy and contented.

I heard the stuff there is cheap =D

Need You Now

2010-03-02T16:04:00.003+08:00

 Need You Now by Lady Antebellum

Picture perfect memories,
Scattered all around the floor.
Reaching for the phone cause, I can't fight it any more.
And I wonder if I ever cross your mind.
For me it happens all the time.

It's a quarter after one, I'm all alone and I need you now.
Said I wouldn't call  but I lost all control and I need you now.
And I don't know how I can do without, I just need you now.

Another shot of whiskey, can't stop looking at the door.
Wishing you'd come sweeping in the way you did before.
And I wonder if I ever cross your mind.
For me it happens all the time.

It's a quarter after one, I'm a little drunk,
And I need you now.
Said I wouldn't call but I lost all control and I need you now.
And I don't know how I can do without, I just need you now.

Yes I'd rather hurt than feel nothing at all.

It's a quarter after one, I'm all alone and I need you now.
And I said I wouldn't call but I'm a little drunk and I need you now.
And I don't know how I can do without, I just need you now.
I just need you now.
Oh baby I need you now.

 Let me live in my moment.

Operation Beautiful ♥

2010-02-28T12:58:00.008+08:00

I was reading the papers, and they had this article about this site. Reading it, i was reminded of a Valentine's mission that did the same. But this is throughout the whole year, wherever, whenever, which was pretty cool. Operation Beautiful is a movement, something that boosts the self-esteem and worth of others.

This mini movement started, thanks to somebody named Caitlin Boyle, 25, from Orlando Florida, who scribbled the message you see above and stuck it to the mirror in a public restroom, to remind people of their beauty. She took a picture of it, posted in on her blog, and challenged people to do the same. Soon enough, it spawned this website.

* * * * * * *

http://operationbeautiful.com/

Facebook group

We all have our good days and bad days. But what if all it takes is one little encouraging note to turn someone else's bad day around?

The mission of Operation Beautiful is to leave post-its that have heartwarming, pleasant, smile-provoking messages on them. Write on a bunch of post-its and leave them anywhere: on peoples' cars, dressing room mirrors, whereever - you'll be able to brighten someone's day :)

Seriously, it's so easy:

1) Get some post-its;
2) Write a nice message ("You're beautiful," "Love yourself!", "Smile!")
3) Post it somewhere where people will see it!

* * * * * * *

I was so inspired by this that i scribbled some messages myself and stuck some on the mirrors of those public restrooms. I'm making a note to carry some post-its and a writing tool so that i can paste it when i have to chance =) Brighten up someone's day, make them feel good about themself! Random acts of kindness rock. Also making it a point to do over 100 of it by the end of this year or less.

Because, you see all this negativity around us. Magazines showing photoshopped models who make us feel inferior, people undergoing plastic surgery, anorexic and bulimic teenagers. We, who feel that we are not good enough, always putting ourselves down, submitting to the world's standards. This is also a fact : We do not give enough compliments. We criticize people. We look at their flaws and imperfections instead of their fine points. There's all this pessimism in the air. We always compare ourselves to others.

Well, STOP!
Because you are good enough.
You are beautiful.

Now, go out there and do the same!!
Make someone smile =)

Jogging Fiasco + Gambling Success

2010-02-18T14:13:00.009+08:00

What would my past give up for this moment, heh.

Okayy, since Chinese New Year has been pretty much of a bore, we decided to go jogging! This 'we' includes Chee Hong, Kenneth(Wee's cousin), Leon, Sarah, Wee & I (names in alphabetical order). The reason being that we live remotely close to each other. Kinda. And since Wee's place was also having an open house at night round 8 PM, we decided to hit there afterwards.

To make the story simpler, i've decided to assign these people into two groups. Chee Hong, Leon, Sarah and I will be in one group called : The Jogging Gang, whereas Kenneth and Wee are hereby assigned to a duo called The Outsiders. Oh, and both groups together are known as 'Everybody'.

Right. So the plan everybody agreed on was this : 5 PM, The Jogging Gang will gather at my place while The Outsiders will pick us up. We will jog up Bukit Utama, down Bukit Utama, to Central Park and maybe to Centrepoint later for yamcha if the time does not exceed 7 PM. Then, everybody will go back to their respective shelters and take bathes before heading to Wee's house.

At 2 PM, i decided to take a nap as i slept at 4 AM the previous night (don't ask what i was doing, i can't remember). I awoke to the sound of my mom welcoming Sarah in at around 4.45 PM. At 5 PM, CH showed up and i called Wee, awaking him from his beauty sleep. Apparently, Kenneth was at 1U at the moment, and Wee very well can't leave without him, can he?

Then, i dialled for Leon. He was on the way. I have this thing for punctuality in certain cases, but i kinda let this one slide, since Leon was only 15 minutes late and Wee wasn't ready anyway. So, at 5.15 PM, The Jogging Gang was finally assembled at my place, geared and ready to go. Oh, and CH broke some glass, but it's not that important. Sarah handled the thing really well, she knew what to do and everything =D

At around 5.25 PM, Wee PM-ed, telling us to meet up at the park, since his cousin will be coming back at 5.30 PM. So The Jogging Gang merrily went on our way. Walked to the park, which was like, just a few blocks down. Hung around the playground, Leon had a spectacular fall, but wasn't injured, thank goodness =)

By this time, the sky was an ominous gray. And STILL no sign of Wee. But we didn't go back, because well, i liked the crazy idea of jogging in the rain. Oh, and the rain rocks. It was around 5:40 PM when the rain started pouring. Like, by the buckets. It seemed fun at first (to me), but then we got drenched. Sorry guys =D In the end, CH's mom picked us up halfway and sent us back to my place. So nice of her, eventhough doing so drenched the inside of her car as well.

Back at my place, Leon, Sarah and i cleaned up by the means of showers. CH went back to his own house, since he lives so near. When the rain stopped around 6 something, The Outsiders had the nerve to drop by and call us to take up jogging! *shakes head* Well, since getting drenched for them was already enough for today, we refused. Plus, we're all clean already anyway.

CH joined us and we played the computer and fooled around for a bit before leaving for Wee's house at 7.30 PM, since everybody was hungry. Had a few test rounds of Poker, 'Ngao' and In-Between before going downstairs to feast. The food there was delicious. Lou sang-ed outside the house and ate lots of yummy treats! =) Sat and joked around for a bit before heading back upstairs to start the real gambling. Oh, and Leon, what animal barks? Heh.

Substituting mahjong pieces for poker chips, we played a few rounds of poker before cashing in, since it got boring. We started In-Between instead. It was fun, building up the suspense and everything, heh. Even a small win or loss was hilarious. Sarah was so happy when she won 3 bucks and Leon...i just have to apologize to him again. Sorry =( Had a load of laughs that day though =) Went back at 10:30 PM.

Pics of Wee's place on Facebook.

Aaaaand, that's about it =)

Us Chinese

2010-02-14T18:31:00.008+08:00

Aaaaaand i'm back! =) Plus, i've remembered what i wanted to blog about now!

Chinese New Year. What comes to your mind when you think of that? Most of my friends (my brother included) would think:

ANG PAOS!!!

Which is equivalent to money. Right? Of course, other things might have came to your mind too, like packet drinks, lou sang, tangerines, gambling, lion dances, red lanterns and new clothes.

But what is the true meaning of Chinese New Year? Seriously, where did it all originate from? I think about this in terms similar to Christmas. Like, what is the true meaning of Christmas? Surely it's not just presents? So for the new year, surely it's not just all about the money? I was curious, so i decided to google up how Chinese New Year came to exist.

* * * * * * *

Chinese New Year or Spring Festival is the grandest festival for the Chinese. It is also called "Lunar New Year", because it is based on the lunisolar Chinese calendar. China’s Spring Festival starts on a different date each year. The holiday can take place between January 21 and February 20. Most years, the Chinese Lunar New Year takes place during the second new moon after the winter solstice, which the ancient Chinese believed was the start of spring.

The Spring Festival has its roots in Chinese mythology. A fearsome creature, the Nian (年), would appear on the first day of the new year. It would eat crops, livestock, and children.

Rawr!!

Villagers didn’t look forward to the yearly appearance of the Nian. Who would? It’s probably the same feeling North Americans get in April as the income tax deadline approaches. To ward off the evil Nian (from all accounts, a hideous creature that looked like a lion or unicorn) people began leaving food outside their doors. If the Nianster had something to eat, perhaps it wouldn’t dine on their children.

Silence! I kill you!

This worked, temporarily. However, the Nian grew bold. But one day when the beast came to the village a little boy scared away the Nian with his red vest and high pitched scream. The people started to wear red, paint their window frames, and hang red greetings around their doors. They also hung red lanterns in an attempt to scare away the evil Nian. Villagers organized to bang gongs and drums to scare away the creature. Fireworks were also used the frighten the beastie. Handing out red envelopes were also designed to protect people against the Nian.

Did it work? Accounts differ. In one story, the Nian was so startled by the sensory overload caused by the villagers that it fled. The creature went from village to village, being scared away in each. Eventually it grew tired, and was attacked and killed by the people it had tormented for many years.

In another tale, the Nian stopped his raids, knowing that because of well-prepared villagers, his sessions of dining on children were over. It was eventually tamed by a famous Taoist, Hongjunlaozu, and became his mount.

I'm blue, da ba dee da ba di

There are some who believe (cue scary music) that the Nian is still alive, in the mountains, waiting for a spring festival without loud noises and red.

The Chinese word for year is Nian, a nod to the creature of yore. A phrase for celebrating Chinese New Year is Guo Nian ( 过年), translated: the passing of the beast.

Sources :

* * * * * * *

In a way, i do think that's kinda cool. I never knew about all this before. And i'm Chinese, for goodness sakes. Oh btw, us Han Chinese (a majority ethnic group in China) by most modern definitions, are the single largest ethnic group in the WORLD. How cool is that? The Han Chinese constitutes about 20% of the entire GLOBAL human population! And wait, this is my favourite part. An alternate name that many Chinese use to refer to themselves is "Descendants of the Dragon" (Chinese: 龍的傳人 or 龙的传人). Dragon, guys! DRAGON!!!

Okay, overexcited much. I still retain my love for dragons =) Anyway, it's on Wikipedia. Got caught up with Chinese history. I am VERY proud to be a Chinese. Although my fluency in the Chinese language has deteriorated over the years. But hey, at least i'm not one of those pure 香蕉入.

Alright, Chinese history lesson over. The point is, ang paos aren't supposed to be the only thing about Chinese New Year. Just like presents aren't supposed to be the only thing about Christmas. This tradition, deeply rooted, for years and decades is still going on today. See how amazing culture is? Still today, most of us are hanging up decorations, visiting relatives, wearing red, having lion dances and letting off fireworks (well, for those places that don't have the ban anyway).

Sadly, most of us teenagers and kids don't know about the Chinese culture. But hey, it's not our fault. Some parents (my dad for example) don't know it either, so they can't tell it to us =P Anyway, all we think about nowadays is the money and how we're gonna spend it. We 'put up' going back to our hometowns, impatiently waiting in the houses of relatives for the red envelopes to come into our hands. Once we get it, we signal to our parents with our 'Hey, we got the loot, lets leave!' eyes. And later, when we check the haul, we'll be disappointed if it's as low as RM 5.

Is this what our culture really is? I dunno about you, but i felt kinda sad when i thought about this. It's like the true meaning of the tradition is dying from the inside. Shouldn't we think more about the welfare of our relatives, than the money? The bondage of the family ties rather than the amount of ang paos we get?

Yep, this world is getting more and more materialistic every day.
And i'm no better, because i'm a bloody hypocrite.

Kickoff to the Tiger's Year & Valentines

2010-02-14T00:30:00.008+08:00

Roarmance is in the air...

Oh, and thank you =)

Screw the copyrights! =)

Waaaaaazzzuuppp, guys! Heh, it's been helluva crazy this week, but the good news is, it's the holidays! It's also officially the start of the Year of The Tiger and Valentine's Day!! One whole week of relaxation, pigging out & outings!

Eh! Zip, zip, zip! I just realized it's been a whole year...it seems like just a few weeks ago when i was having competitive fits about designing something for the Editorial Club to prove myself & when my cousin got her appendix removed and my dad made that lame joke, haha. When WW & W were making Ferugalas.

Hmm...comparing myself now to the myself last year, i don't think i've grown much. I mean, in terms of maturity, i am still the same old goofy kid who makes lame jokes and acts like a spoilt brat. Now, that really is a bummer. I wish i could be intellectual, witty and whatnot, but that can't just happen automatically, haha. I'm still that average kid who still doesn't know what to do exactly with her life.

Okay this is slowly turning downwards, so i'm just gonna end it right here, heh.
And i'll make another post when i can remember what i wanted to blog about, since it's already 2:27 AM.

Happy Valentines.

What If?

2010-02-07T18:09:00.002+08:00

Nostalgia is a strong emotion.

Once it grips you, it's really hard to stop thinking about it. Constantly, constantly, i wonder:

"What if?"

And not being able to get the answer, i'm unsatisfied. This bittersweet longing is, well, bittersweet. But there is nothing i can do.

I'll just have to wait it out.

Those Were The Days

2010-02-04T18:23:00.007+08:00

I found you~

It's been, what, 8 years?
Except for that day where you saw me in MPH =)
I'm unable to recall what i did then, though.
But thanks to the wonders of the internet (and a bit of nostalgia + curiousity), i've been able to catch a glimpse of how you're doing.
It took awhile to find, since you don't go by your Chinese name anymore.
But i did, and you're doing great! You're sociable, musically talented and determined. Not to mention intelligent, a natural and forever young!
At least, that's what i've got from your song and posts =)

I didn't recognize you at first.
But from some of your other pictures, it was the face i definitely hung out with all those years back.
I wonder if you're still T.I.N.Y.
Even if you are, it doesn't matter.

Being tiny is the best thing you could be, right? =)

I can only remember bits and pieces...
I remember hanging out with you almost every recess, sharing Mamee Monster with you everyday.
I remember playing hide-and-seek with you in your dad's office after BM tuition.
I remember sitting in your parents car, and you telling me that the middle was the best place to sit, because if there were any car accidents from either side, i won't get squashed. Guess we really didn't know about inertia much then, haha.
I remember going to your house to hang out after school, watching tv and talking with you.
And i remember...
That's the past now.

I don't know if you remember me.
But i'm glad to see that you've grown.
And sad that i've lost touch with you.
Continue doing what you're doing.
You're awesome.

Between The Lines

2010-01-29T22:53:00.000+08:00

"...oh you're so naïve, yet so..."

How many times am i going to let this control my life? I am always falling into the same trap, over and over again, not learning from my mistakes, not overcoming these situations, not knowing what to do even when it repeats a thousand times in my face. I avoid it, pretending that everything, every single thing is alright, when it is actually a nagging ache, pulling my mood down, threatening to drag me below the surface.

Armored by few, surrounded by many. However, they are fragile, wavering, and i always doubt them because of my inability to place complete trust in them. Because of that, one by one, they leave me, and i am left to fend for myself, sinking deeper into my depression. Only few remain, and i am afraid that they, too, will leave me one day. I am not good, i am not pure, i am not nice. In my heart resides memories, past, things that should not be spoken, heard or thought of. Nobody knows.

And because of this, i am afraid. I am afraid that i am not changed, that my old self is just below the surface, just waiting to burst out whenever a chance presents itself. I am afraid that i actually want to revert, to conform. I am selfish, i am weak. I constantly doubt myself, my faith, my whole life. Is this really my desire? I am never sure, i feel like i am going in all directions, following a broken compass, going around in circles. Where will i go to in the end? I am on the boundary. I feel guilt, but at the same time, a perverse satisfaction. I know the good from the bad, the wrong from right. However, i do wonder.

I don't know how to change. Will i truly be like this? Even if actions are kind, what about thoughts? Is it not the thought that counts? People evaluate actions, but if you have a mind that is actually the opposite, i do not think it counts. Secretly, i do not even know what i want.

I am burnt out.

But i have you.
You put a smile on my face.
Just because you care.

Summarization

2010-01-24T14:55:00.006+08:00

Let me see where i can start this summary...(hey, that rhymes!)

Melissa Soon got the Assistant To The President post for the Leo Club =)
I got the Form 5 Representative spot along with Sarah.
I didn't want the post of the president anymore, since I will be assisting Editorial in any way i can (yes, the club wasn't disbanded, just that they changed the name to Malay, so nobody understood it and thought that it was disbanded, thus applying for Leo Club instead).
I've got TONS of homework to do, which seemingly sprung out of nowhere.
We had our annual cross country run yesterday. 5 kilometers, up Bukit Utama, down and around.
Running down was awesome, you could feel the wind whipping against your face and you feel like you're flying, on wings.
Gotta do it again sometime, but just for fun, with friends =)
Sadly, Green House came in last, with Yellow House leading. But we'll catch up. Hopefully.
Had an unexplainable moment at youth today during worship. Almost magical.
Been updating iTunes, since the computer has been reformatted. Slowly resurrecting it.
The ship will be syncing soon.

Life is currently goooood.
Can't wait for Alpha.

My Life Is Average

2010-01-16T00:19:00.008+08:00

It was 3 AM
and you woke me up...

Another week has gone by. I managed to get the Carta Organisasi done (the left side done very nicely, i must say), turned in all my homework on time and went to bed every night no later than 1 AM (except for today). Pretty constructive for a person like me, if i do say so myself.

Anyway, Camp Alpha 2010 is coming up soon! =) It will be during the March holidays, 3 days 2 nights, from Monday to Wednesday. We've decided a few things, but there's still lots of work to be done, so yeah, we're trying our best =) Do come! It's gonna be fun, as we are definitely gonna get a whole lot more of people this year.

School's been much of a bore. Since we basically didn't pay for anything last year, they're making us compensate by forking out oodles of cash THIS year. Money doesn't grow on trees, damn it. They also completely renovated the whole canteen, making the school food slightly more expensive (hey, we're paying for this every day okay?) and also inconsistent. Alright, it might be good to have variety, different foods on different days. But i guess i'm one of those people who prefer consistency and maintenance. Since i'm a perfectionist. But that trait is somewhat contradictory, since it makes me imperfect, doesn't it? Heh.

Anyway, i just have something that i want to say to a really awesome friend of mine here.

Thank you. Oh my gosh, i still can't believe you actually did that just to make sure i was alright. Seriously, i evaluate actions, since actions speak louder than words, and yours came through loud and clear, it practically screamed, or shouted. I don't know anybody else who would actually do what you did, who would stick to their instinct, who would stand by their stubbornness. You've gained a lot of my trust. And it's nice to know that someone cares THAT much.
Hopefully you'll be the best friend i've wanted all these years.

Makes me wonder if He sent you.

Rules

2010-01-09T21:01:00.005+08:00

School has overgone some drastic changes this year. In the course of one week, various views of students about BU3 has changed to one common perception. School sucks. It's like a jail. They only let us off when it's at least 2.30 PM now instead of our usual 1.15 - 1.50 PM. There are NO benefits to this. None at all. We become even more tired, more stressed and the aging process increases as our youth is sucked out each day. Leading to a major decrease in endorphines. [*salutes*Major Decrease!] Oh what will we do without our endorphines. All is lost for good.

And on Wednesdays when there's co-curriculum activites, all the students face a lockdown, forced to eat within the school boundaries. Moreover, the only source where we can get food besides our parents is the canteen. A huuuge majority of students get their food there. Resulting in a major clash of forces, creating mass havoc and chaos. Sounds like something out of a Chemistry/Physics book now.

So today i wanted to buy a short-sleeved KRS top, as we're near to the equator. Heard from Teri that i could get it at Atria. Thanks Teri, you saved me a whole lot of trouble =) Anyway, i went there and sure, they had what i needed. While my mom and I were discussing if the use of this type of KRS shirt would be approved by Mr. Wong, the salesperson piped up and said this.

Mr. Wong? BU3 is it?
Yeah? How do you know?
Oh, students mostly from BU3 have been coming in the whole day to buy stuff, cursing Mr. Wong in the process and leaving. *chuckles*

Needless to say, i laughed too. Even in Atrium, where business was practically dead (oh my gosh i felt so much pity for them that i wanted to buy all their products, just to see the smiles on their faces), news about what Mr. Wong had done to BU3 had reached there. I was surprised.

But you know, i remain passive about all these changes. Alright, i'm a little disappointed about the strict rules they have enforced upon us this year, taking away the glory of our last high school days. But still, i'm not so flared up about it to move schools. I'm actually gonna do my best this year, be responsible, be active in clubs and such, instead of just attending and meekly sitting down, twiddling my thumbs and hope that they don't call on me to participate in anything.

Yesterday night, i stayed up until 1 AM, doing research on the club i'm gonna be in, the Leo Club. It's really interesting, because it leans more to charity work, for the benefit of others instead of just us. I really want to be the president of it this year. I'm not quite sure if i'm up to par, but i'm willing to try. Do things for a good cause, y' know? I'm actually taking the initiative to DO stuff. Make this year count.

It sounds like i'm biting off more than i can chew, since i'm already the AJK Keceriaan and also in charge of the NILAM for the class. What's more, this is SPM year. However, this is also my last year. After this, i'll never get a chance to go back again. Never gonna have this chance to lead a club, where i'm so comfortable at, with my friends. Do you know what LEO stands for? Yeah, it's not just a fancy name.

Leadership
Experience
Opportunity

LEADERSHIP, guys. I'm going to get the full EXPERIENCE. Can't let this OPPORTUNITY down. This is my chance. This is my year.

I'm gonna be a Leo.

2009

2010-01-02T23:10:00.013+08:00

Hey, it's me. This is the first post of 2010 and after reading Mel's personal and nostalgic sounding post, i felt inspired to blog about my experiences in the year of '09 too.

And then there was you. Oh, we didn't last.

All in all, 2009 was a sucky year. Compared to '08? No comparision. '08 was definitely better. But now, when i look back at all the experiences i had in '09, i think to myself,

hey, it wasn't THAT bad. I had some unspeakable joys as well.

Sure, '09 was the year where i cried the most in my life. Sure, '09 was when i started drifting apart from my friends. Sure, '09 was when life started being shitty.
I stopped blogging about my life, i stopped getting high, and at times, i stopped caring or feeling about anything.

But i'm glad we tried. Well, you tried. I wasn't being much help.

I felt like i was on this emotional roller coaster. Except that i never ever got to the peak. I was constantly going downhill. No more loop-de-loops. No more purpose in life. Wishing everything would just step back, go away, get lost. I wanted to retreat back into my bubble, where nothing could hurt me, nothing could touch me. Just like how i always was before i accepted Christ. When i thought that life was junk, love was a lie and that friends were only there for the good times.

Maybe we won't have another chance. Maybe we will. Who knows.

But still. Still. There were the little things. Those things that came together and formed a puddle of light that was trying to blot out the darkness and gave me relief. Like, when my brother listened to me when i was have the shittiest, suckiest day of the year. Like, when some of you guys listened to my problems. Like, when we had fun screaming and shouting, not caring whoever heard.

But i regret nothing. Nothing at all.

Alright, personal is over.

On a lighter note, what better way to start the new year with a new phone? Yep, that's right. I've finally changed my phone. The phone that has been with me for 6 years, my first phone? Oh, i'm still keeping it, of course. But now i have...

The w902, babe.

Some people tell me that you're ugly, but i love you anyways.

To the many great years to come. Cheers.

You were the highlight of my days.

Master Plan : Secrets Revealed!

2009-12-28T00:28:00.013+08:00

Good day to you readers! This is blogger Wenzes Yap typing. I've finally unleashed the full force of my master plan on my family, entitled : How To Surprise Your Family and Make Them Happy on Christmas Day. Which took place on Christmas Day (kinda obvious). Needless to say, it was a success. So, i will now be teaching you how to conduct your very own master plan.

The master plan can be conducted in 10 not-so-simple steps. But first, you will need :

christmas day
some time [2 to 3 hours if you're a dawdler like me]
everyone else to be fast asleep [so this should take place at around 2 to 3 am]
a clear space
a christmas tree
some snow [or something white to substitute it]
an amount of presents equal to the number of family members
an appropriate number of christmas decorations [varies according to your budget]
a festive picture frame with your photo in it *
a CD filled with christmas songs
a technological device to play that CD filled with christmas songs

* = optional

So,

#1 : Get a clear, empty space.

We don't drink coffee on it though.

Clear off some space of an object that can capture the attention of people easily. In my case, the coffee table. It doesn't neccessarily have to be a coffee table though. Try to find a place where your family members loiter around most. Or somewhere that is clearly visible for all to see, not a closet.

#2 : Let it snow.

Okay, it's not real snow. Money's tight, yo.

Place your snow, in my case, a pile of whites, over your chosen space. Try to achieve desired snow-fall backdrop. Even better if you bought lots of tiny snow from the shops and sprinkled them all over. Of course, that would probably mean you have to clean up afterwards. Or if you have no money and lots of time, you could always tear of bits of paper, roll them into tiny, tiny balls till you have around 4, 160, 928 of them instead to substitute for fake snow =)

#3 : Plant a tree.

It comes with decorations! =D

Whenever you see a warm and cousy cottage with a fireplace in the middle of winter (in cartoons), it is never without a Christmas tree. Get a Christmas tree. Compulsory. Doesn't matter how small or big it is, as long as you have one.

#4 : Get Santa Claus.

Ho ho ho! *holds out hand, expecting something* (inside joke)

Grab, threaten and/or bribe Santa to come and leave some presents under the Christmas tree for your family. Should he refuse to come because you've been naughty this year, you have no choice but to get them yourself.

#5 : Decorate!

Ooooh. Shiiiiny.

Even if your tree has decorations on it, try to get hold of some tree lights. It makes a big difference to the entire scene, trust me. Lights, are a must. Best colors would be red or yellow-gold. But others will do just fine, as long as you have only one color, because it might look too cluttered otherwise. I also added some tiny cards, one for each member i'm giving it to.

When dressing your tree with lights, go around the decorations. Try not to just drape the lights around it. Put a little effort into it, will ya? I started from the bottom and made my way to the top, then doubled back, but made sure the lights were positioned a little more to the outermost of the tree. I hope you get me here. Lets just move on.

#6 : Make some music.

Ah, the trusty DVD player. You never let me down. Except for now.

Stumbling onto a frosty scene would be nice. Stumbling onto a frosty scene with soft christmas music playing in the background would be magical. And more real, somewhat. What i did, i burned a mix CD filled with Christmas soundtracks to use for this occasion. Here is the list of songs i used.

01. Little Drummer Boy by Aly & AJ
02. Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas by David Archuleta
03. My Only Wish This Year by Britney Spears
04. God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen by Aly & AJ
05. Silent Night by Susan Boyle
06. Melodies of Christmas by David Archuleta
07. White Christmas by Connie Talbot
08. Joy To The World by Aly & AJ
09. Christmas Must Be Something More by Taylor Swift *
10. Auld Lang Syne by James Taylor
11. Pat-A-Pan by David Archuleta *
12. Winter Wonderland by Aly & AJ
13. We Three Kings by Aly & AJ
14. Sleigh Ride by Amy Grant
15. We Wish You A Merry Christmas by Aly & AJ
16. What Child Is This by David Archuleta
17. Let It Snow by Aly & AJ
18. Christmas Shoes by NewSong
19. I'll Be Home For Christmas by Aly & AJ
20. The First Noel by Aly & AJ
21. Deck The Halls by Aly & AJ
22. Santa Claus Is Coming To Town by Hillary Duff
23. Last Christmas by Hillary Duff
24. Silent Night by Taylor Swift *

* = ♥

Okay, i know what you must be thinking. No variety! Or some !@#$%^& thoughts about how bad my taste of music is. Well, in my defense, when i find an artist that has made a christmas album, i download the whole of it. Then, i sift through the songs and find the ones that sound the best. If there are multiple artists singing the same song, i just choose the version i like best. This way, there wouldn't be more than one Last Christmas or something. I only made an exception for Silent Night because i really liked both versions and i didn't know which one to choose. So i included them both =)

I intended for the music to be playing softly in the background when my family members caught sight of the surprise. However, i made the fatal mistake of using my DVD player and not using my iPod to play the songs instead. This is because the DVD player didn't have the repeat function. So after around an hour when it has made a single loop of the songs, it couldn't make more loopy loops. Well. Epic Phail. No music was playing when they came down. I had to rely on the sole effect the visual gave them =(

#7 : Mark your territory.

Frrrossteee d Snuumonn!

If you have siblings, you will have to leave a mark indicating that you are the one responsible for what they see infront of them. In other words, you get the credit XD Muahaha. What? You toiled your way through weeks of preperation, buying items and stashing them up for this very day! Be proud to take all the credit you deserve!

Get a christmassy photo frame and put your picture in it =) I photoshopped mine so that it looked more christmassy! =D Here it is.

Let me make it clear to you. I do NOT camwhore. I did this for the sake of others. Kinda?

I lost the fluffy, furry Christmas hat Kristin and Jo gave me last Christmas =/ Also, you do not neccessarily have to use a photo frame. A note with your signature flourish and a greeting will do =)

#8 : Sprinkle sugar.

Shiiinier!

Add some final touches. Check your lights, fluff up the 'snow', add a red bow to the tree and add more decorations so that it won't look plain =)

#9 : Remove evidence.

*shifty eyes*

Lets say one of your parents frequently wakes up in the dead of the night to check on you. If they see a pile of plastic bags in a corner, they would guess something was up and ruin it prematurely right? Or worse, they might stumble upon you setting up. All would be lost then. So ALWAYS remove the evidence before it's too late. Besides, it doesn't add any christmassy feel to anything. A sight for sore eyes.

#10 : Check it out.

There's just something darn magical about a Christmas tree in the dark.

Perfected it.

And all you have to do after that is just crawl up in bed (or the sofa) and wait for them to jerk you awake with happy smiles on their faces =)

AN ESSAY OF ADVICE

Rich individuals may skip this paragraph.

Be sure to have a hefty sum of funds saved up before buying these items, or you'll go bankrupt, like me. Thank goodness i'm working. Account for your spendings wisely. Think twice about buying something that's nice to see but otherwise useless in daily life unless you really have no choice. Gifts should be practical and appealing, something that would make the recipient happy.

Rich individuals can continue now.

HIDE ALL ITEMS FROM SIGHT WHEN YOU BRING THEM BACK! USE WHATEVER TACTICS NECCESSARY!

That is all.

i love christmas and my family! Thank you God for helping me with all of this!

So here's to the birthday boy who saved our lives

2009-12-25T01:12:00.003+08:00

Merry Christmahanakwanzika, everybody =)

Spread the love ♥

2009-12-23T19:39:00.007+08:00

Currently :

LOVING THE WORLD!!!

Thanks to EVERYTHING that fell in place.
Thank you, Jehovah.
And thank you, my friends =D
Mission accomplished.

Zombies? Zombies!

2009-12-23T12:59:00.007+08:00

5/10

Seriously? It was interesting.

I don't normally like gory or horror movies, but this one was alright, cause there's comedy in it. Not only was it funny at some parts, but it was pretty random too, with all the rules for survival and whatnot.

And at some point, you kinda get desensitized to the gore, if you watch it enough times. Not that it is a good thing, i mean, it would be pretty sad if one were to watch it and not feel anything. Heck, it'd be worse if one were to watch it and think it's hilarious. That's pretty sadistic.

That's what most of us did during this movie.

But heyy, it was the zombies that were getting killed! I mean, when it was humans, i was kinda bummed. And disgusted. Not to mention horrified and pitying those poor lost ones ( i've zero tolerance for brutal, gory slaughtering =/ ) But these are mindless creatures who'd eat you, no questions raised. Or turn you into one of them. Eat you AND turn you into one of them.

So that is why you should do some cardio, check the backseat, wear your seatbelt, know your way out and the most important thing of all, enjoy the little things =) Just in case.

Ihavenofrigginideawherethisisgoingjustshootmenaoz

Go get your shovel

2009-12-18T01:24:00.003+08:00

Cause sometimes, things just don't go your way or away.

The Prices Are Crippling!

2009-12-11T23:35:00.010+08:00

Everybody's leaving their blog address on their images, so go with the flow, i say.

So, how's it like working at Cripp- i mean, Kipling? Well, it's not bad. Not bad at all. The only downside is that it might get a little boring sometimes if you have nothing to do, but i have my mom's Net book, so that changes everything, heh. Also, some of my friends drop in from time to time to grace me with their presence for some time (around 5 seconds average not counting the breaks i have with Mel and Dudu XD). Thanks Wei Hua (first of the first hour and day, man!), Michelle, Melissa, Dudu, Brandon (Wong), Chee Hong, Wee Liam (Mango Boy), Nicole, Leon, Bran (Hon), Kah Chan, Sean, Ian, Nicholas (i guess), Teri, Yeap, Old Man Ting Ting, Ching Ling, Ka Weng and Wei Zheng. Order of appearance. It's awesome.

Spot my name?

[scroll down for answer]

Here it is! =)

Anyhoo, i am now going to share some interesting but useless facts about Kipling that you probably don't give a damn about, shortened directly from the site. Read on, i say! Since it took me freaking long to type it.

x-x-x-x-x

01. WHEN WAS KIPLING CREATED?

Founded in 1987.

02. WHERE ARE KIPLING'S HEADQUARTERS LOCATED?

Kipling's international headquarters are based in Bornem, Belgium.

03. HOW CAN I APPLY FOR A JOB WITH KIPLING?

Kipling is always on the lookout for true fashion addicts that live the Kipling brand, Send us your application and we'll let you know whether we have an opening for you in our team. Send us your CV with a letter telling us what you're looking for to jobseurope@vfc.com and we'll send you our feedback as soon as possible.

04. WHERE CAN I FIND A STORE NEAR ME THAT SELLS KIPLING?

Today, you can find Kipling products in more than 60 countries throughout Europe, the USA, South America, Asia, the Middle East, Africa and Australia.

05. WHERE DOES THE NAME KIPLING COME FROM?

In the early days when the designers were looking for the perfect brand name, they wanted to find a name that everyone could pronounce, wherever they were. A name that didn't have any strange and unexpected meanings in another language. Kipling came from the author of "The Jungle Book", Rudyard Kipling (and the poem, "If"! =D remember, guys?), and this brings the monkey into the story.

06. WHY IS THERE A MONKEY ON EVERY BAG?

Whenever you think of Kipling, you think of the monkey. It is one of the icon items that make a bag a Kipling bag. Of course the brand name 'Kipling' and Rudyard Kipling's famous work 'The Jungle Book' give Kipling the perfect connection. Monkeys are symbols of fun and adventure, so the monkey naturally becomes the brand's mascot. And not too much later, it became the monkey key ring. Every Kipling monkey is named after an employee from somewhere around the world. Every collection has its own unique monkey! The monkey has definitely become a collectors' item for anyone who is fun-loving and young at heart.

07. HOW CAN I CLEAN MY KIPLING BAG?

All Kipling bags can be cleaned. Clean the outside fabric with a slightly wet cloth. Wipe in direction of the fibre. Do not bleach. Do not soak in water. Hang in a shady place to dry.

08. HOW LONG ARE KIPLING BAGS GUARANTEED FOR?

The Kipling warranty covers any defects in materials or workmanship for two years from date of purchase. During the warranty period, at your option we will repair or replace your bag (with the equivalent bag if your bag is no longer available), if you return the bag to the 'Authorized Kipling Dealer' where you purchased your bag, together with proof of purchase. This warranty does not cover damages that result from accident, misuse, abuse (including damage caused by airlines or other carriers), normal wear and tear or theft. Incidental and consequential damages, such as damage to, or loss of, the contents of a bag, loss of use or time or similar expenses are not recoverable under this warranty. Locks are intended only to prevent accidental opening and cannot necessarily prevent theft of product or its contents.

09. HOW DO I GET MY BAG REPAIRED?

Simply return your bag to the place you purchased it from or to your local Kipling distributor.

10. SOME AMAZING STATISTICS...

- Kipling sells yearly about 6, 000, 000 bags.

- This means that every minute, about 23 Kipling bags are sold somewhere in the world.

- More than 40 million people in the world now own at least one Kipling bag.

- There are more Kipling bags than there are people in Belgium.

x-x-x-x-x

Phew. I really shortened a lot. Seriously, the person who made that Kipling FAQ sure can crap about how good Kipling bags are. Well, they ARE good. But he made it sound like if you don't own one, you're not fun or adventurous. Which must mean you're boring and lame if you don't own one XD

So what are you waiting for? Buy a Kipling bag today! =)

Layout change ahoy!

2009-12-10T23:19:00.009+08:00

I need a new blog layout.

I hereby command myself to make one before the end of this month.

Wish me luck.

Loads of luck.

I'll need it.

feeling down, i am.

#009 Tag

2009-12-09T22:05:00.011+08:00

1. Name »
Wenzes
2. Birthday »
30 August 1993
3.Who tagged you »
Su Yinn
4. Name 5 of your best friends »
Kim, Mel, Sarah, Wei Hua and my brother.
5. What do you want for your bday present »
Anything practical.

6. Happiest thing you have gone through recently »
Scheming.
7. Recent pressure »
Getting up in the mornings.
8. Ambition »
Graphic Designer.
9. Do you have a lover »
Personal information will not be disclosed, especially here.
10. Will you look for your teachers during an alumni association »
Not really.

11. Who makes you happy during an outing »
Friends and Family accompanied with Fun and Laughter.
12. If 2 of your friends are arguing »
Stay on the downlow and avoid taking sides with any of them.
13. Where do you want to go with your lover »
A clean, tranquil and secluded beach.
14. What do you want to do during Christmas »
That's a secret. I'll blog about it AFTER Christmas.
15. Who do you want to celebrate Christmas with »
THE WHOLE WORLD!!!

16. Do you have the excitement of waking up? »
No. I'm always tired and grumpy.
17. How many siblings do you have »
One.
18. Which song u like the most (female) »
Beautiful World by Utada Hikaru
19. Which song u like the most (male) »
Vanilla Twilight by Owl City
20. What colour do you like »
Red

21. Will you flush before use the toilet »
If there are the leavings of others, yeah. Sometimes i even flush it even when i'm not the one that's gonna be using it. It's a good deed, mon.
22. Do you love me »
Who is this 'me', first of all? I do NOT profess nor profuse my love to random strangers.
23. Do you like male or female »
I like them both, because i'm not sexist. However, i am only attracted to and/or interested in males.
24. Shout out loud »
I'M NOT GOING DOWN, YA HEAR ME?!?
25. Dare to go for a pee at midnight »
Not if i'm not in my house.

26. Will you take off ur pants when you're peeing? »
I'm 16. I do not wet my pants, for goodness sakes.
27. Who are supposed to be whacked? »
That's up to God to decide.
28. What are you crazy of recently »
Downloading music and concucting my MASTER PLAN!
29. How is your sleeping look »
Tousled-up hair, dead eyes and a grumpy growl.
30. What time is it »
10:15 PM

31. Do you dislike the person who got you tagged »
Nope! I admire her endless creativity =D
32. Your weight »
45 kg A.K.A. 100 pounds.
33. Weather »
Night. Hot & Humid.
34. Are you pregnant »
Nope.
35. What will you do if you've won a lottery »
Keep it a secret (if THAT'S even possible) and buy gifts for everyone. Then save the rest or something.

36. An activity of the undergraduate students »
Plotting, scheming, taking over the world.
37. Add a colour into rainbow »
White.
38. Do you think friendship is true-hearted »
Some are.
39. Do you know spring »
It's always summer here, so, sadly, no.
40. Who do you like in TVXQ »
Don't watch that channel.

41. List out 5 of your flaws »
Insensitive, Lazy, Stubborn, Shy and Selfish
42. List out 2 sentences you like »
- Cause the spaces between my fingers are right where yours fit perfectly.
- Perfection is defined when your heart beats next to mine.
43. What do you like to eat »
Chicken Chop, Carbonara and Coke.
44. You pray to God for »
The salvation of my family members and loved ones, the forgiveness of my shortcomings, weaknesses, flaws & sins and how to overcome them, and sometimes, the wellbeing of random people.
45. Brands you prefer »
I don't buy branded stuff. Not any more.

iTag,
ibiteyou.

i have a sudden longing to hear him say those three words again.

Moony moony moony

2009-12-02T23:54:00.009+08:00

4/10

3.5 out of the 4 points is cause of the graphics.

As to be expected, the New Moon movie falls waaaaaaaaay too short from the book's awesomeness. It wasn't as bad as Twilight, but it didn't lose any sappiness. Not super cheesy anymore though. Just a little. But why does it always sound better in the book and not on the screen? Well, at least they got rid of the blueish tinge that Twilight had. And i gotta admit, the graphics were pretty awesome. Especially the wolves, they looked really realistic.

The funniest part was after the movie, when i was at home. My dad confessed that he thought the movie was about vampires going to the moon. Oh my gosh, i laughed so hard, tears came out of my eyes and i couldn't breathe right. It's been years since i laughed like that...man, did it do my soul a lotta good =)

So far, my holidays have been filled with working. Working for Kipling. I know i shouldn't be complaining, but it's so boring! I admit, it IS waaaay better than waiting tables, folding clothes, fetching shoes and the lot. I mean, i get to sit down and watch shows! Basically what i do at home, except that when a person steps into the store, i pause, stand up, and wait for them to leave/decide which bag they want to buy.

It's almost the same as being at home sometimes. It's like i'm getting paid for watching anime. I know it sounds awesome, but i want to do a job i LOVE. Well, since this is part-time and only temporary, i suppose i have to endure it. Althought, i have to admit, even the thought of money doesn't excite me. Nothing ever seems to fire me up nowadays.

But then again, it's the holidays. I'm always brain-dead during this period of time. Except for when i'm out with any of my friends. It's like all the energy has been stored up inside of me, ready to be unleashed upon the unfortunate individual who's socializing with me. So don't judge me or anything if i act a little cuckoo if you meet me. It's just that i haven't seen you for awhile or *insert some other pathetic excuse here for an introvert like me*, y' know?

One week

2009-11-15T20:02:00.027+08:00

So....
Now that i am somewhat stable and have nothing else remotely better/lousier to do, i will blog.

I had an interesting week.
I'm not saying it's been entirely awesome, but some parts were.

On Thursday,
i went to crash at Mel's place with Kim and Sarah.

On Friday,
we went to One-U, watched 2012 and bought a present for Wei Hua's 16th birthday.
and at night, we (exception of Mel T_____________T) went to Wei Hua's party and had a good, good night~.

On Saturday,
nothing remotely interesting happened.

Today,
i applied for a job at Kipling =)

Let's start.

[Thursday]
Went to her mom's restaurant (ain't it cool that they own a restaurant?) and amused ourselves with a bit of HIMYM and a little Hotel 626. Too bad it glitched at level 8 and we couldn't go any further. Ate lunch there.

At around 1 or 2, we went to her house. Unloaded my stuff there, took a bath, messed around with Mel's items (nail polish, yes, i know, sounds so girly...but it's alright once in a blue moon), played some card games like Pick52 and Shithead. Of course you've never heard of them before. My one and only brother taught me how =) Those are some awesome games. Especially Pick52. It's always best if you win with style though. Although you can only win once. Hm.

And when night came, i ate chicken rice for dinner! I think. There was definitely chicken in it. Mel had some other stuff...weird stuff that i don't really eat much. Sorry =/ Watched Finding Nemo while eating. I like her house. It's homey, like my room!

Sarah and Kim soon came along. And then we did...well, we didn't really do anything much. Mel talked on the phone, i watched Yes Man on the awesome DVD player that Mel has. I have no idea where mom put ours...somewhere in the house with all the junk, probably. Kim and Sarah chatted abit. I'm not really sure what happened since i was glued to the screen...

After the movie, we took some pictures, chatted abit more, hid under the blankets blah blah blah...and i brushed my teeth and went to bed at 1 AM because i was a good girl. Not like them who went for late night snacks and slept at 3 AM. Or maybe it's just cause i was tired coz i slept at my usual time the previous night...and i think they said something about having an afternoon nap, so, yeah.

[Friday]
In the morning, i was awoken by them late-nighters-yet-early-risers (yes, i was the first to sleep and the last to wake, so what!?), brushed teeth, packed, didn't forget anything except my pants and we were all set to have brunch at the restaurant. Only...i didn't finish my fried rice this time. My tummy was full and wasn't up to it, no matter how delicious it was =/ So, tapau-ed and off to One-U we went.

Dropped my stuff off at Sun Moulin, where my uncle works. That meant i didn't have to lug around my clothes and stuff around OU in a bag with a broken strap. We went off to book tickets for 2012. Caught the afternoon show which was around...2.30 PM? Since it was 1 PM then, we used that time wisely to pick a present for Wei Hua. Okay, we might have fooled around in the shop a little, but there were some seriously cool stuff. And not just decorative stuff, but they were really practical too. I'm a fan of practicality =) If that's...even a word.

Bought a handphone holder in the shape of an instant noodles package at S&J. Really cute, coz it had those monkey illustrations around it that Wei Hua usually uses for her emoticons in MSN. Hope you liked it Wei Hua!! While they were wrapping the present, i took some shots of the sales assistant wrapping the present. Until she told me that pictures weren't allowed =/ Darn it. She wrapped it really interestingly too. Like a doggy bag. No insult or offense intended, seriously.

By then, it was around 1.45 PM, we still had some time to kill, so we went to the batting cages on the roof. I was excited coz it was my first time there. I think i did pretty good at hitting those suckers, heh. However, i did miss alot of shots too...gah, i had fun, that's what matters. Oh, the view there was amazing, you could see all the houses...and it was pretty deserted. I wanna go up there again sometime.

After using up the coins, it was 2.10 PM, so we went back to GSC to buy some snacks to eat while watching the movie. I had some delicious mashed potato =) In my opinion, KFC's one tastes better though, but i can't say for sure which one is healthier.

Awesome show, i rate it
8/10

The visuals will literally make you go 'woah' (thanks to graphics, of course). You'll be too stunned to the max to speak, and can only watch the destruction of the world unfold on screen. To me, when they were swooping in and out of the chaos, the earthquakes, the volcanic meteors, it felt like i was right there, feeling the vibrations and terror, riding a Motion Master or something. It'd be a hit if they really made a Motion Master like that.

When the movie ended, it was around 4 PM. Kim, Sarah and i had to rush off to tuition which starts at 5 PM, so we unceremoniously wished our goodbyes to Mel in the toilet and rushed off, huffity puffity. I blame myself that she didn't come with us because my persuading skills weren't good enough. Oh, and she had to help her mom with the shop...=/

Went back to my house to have a quick shower (at least, i did), scrambled back into the backseat of Kim's car and went off for Physics tuition. Learnt about light =) I dozed off abit though, i was so tired. Time of the month, y' know?

After Physics, it was approximately 7.15 PM. Crammed into Kim's car again and we went straight to Wei Hua's party. I would like to make a note here that although the theme was Friday the 13th, i did not see any black cats or umbrella's open around in the house or anything. It looked like a normal party would look like to me =) Then again, i don't have much experience with parties, so i don't think i could give my view on that.

Nevertheless, it was awesome. The food was great, the people were already there (we didn't have to wait for them to arrive to eat XD) and some really good songs were playing as BGM. Reminder to self to get the mix CD from Wei Hua some time soon. So, we fell upon the food with such a ravenous intensity that even hyenas would be shocked (what...we were hungry!) and scarfed down as much as we could till we were stuffed.

After dinner, we played the Pass The Parcel. Man, can Sarah ~~pass~~ fling it away from her quick...guess she really didn't want to do anything embarrassing. To bad the ones that didn't had to burst a balloon in their shirts or by sitting on it. Of course, i just helped her with my long, long, nails =D It was fun, mostly because most of us knew each other. And the ones that we didn't know? Well, they were from our school anyway, so they were a familiar face. Sorta.

Yeah, so after aforementioned game, (i won, btw =D prize was a school file, just what i needed ^^) it was time for the cake, pictures and singing, don't forget singing. The cake looked delicious, and it WAS delicious. Mmmm...ice-cream cake...if only i could eat it every day...

It was irresistably sweet & delicious~!

After the scrumptiously tasty cake (yes, i'm hungry XD), we played a few more games before i went home. Some people had already gone home after scarfing the cake down, since it was already around 9.30 PM. The rest of us went outside and played another game. I don't know what it's called, but everybody takes a card from the deck, and whoever gets the highest must drink a certain amount of beer.

Not to say i hate it...but i certainly don't love alcohol. It tastes weird. And bitter, sometimes. Don't know why people drink it. Wei Hua eventually brought out some red wine too, but i had stopped playing by then. One small amount was more than enough for me =/

By this time, Kim and Sarah had already gone back. So i just wandered around for a short period of time before i got bored and called my dad to come pick me up =) Oh, and i heard that drunk Wei Hua equals to a funny Wei Hua and her face was all red XD But i dunno, coz i wasn't there to see it =) Ask Leon or something.

[Saturday]
was boring.

[Today]
I went to fill in an application at Kipling, OneUtama, as a sales assistant. I got the job! COME VISIT ME ANY DAY!!! The main reason why i signed up for this was to gain experience (i make it sound like a RPG or something). RM 4.50 an hour, double the pay on public holidays, 8 hours a day, an hour for break, 6 days a week. I guess it's okay. It's just to get some experience on how working is like, not like i need the money real bad or anything. But i might use it to buy a PSP =P

That's it for now; delayed this post long enough.

Cause when you're fifteen
and somebody tells you that they love you
you're gonna believe them

Deluded

2009-10-16T17:22:00.006+08:00

Exams are over, it's the self-declared holidays now, i've had my hair cut, all is right with the world, right?

WRONG!

I dunno, but i feel like a bomb. Like one of the smallest things can set me off. And i'll explode. Bits and bits of little pieces flying off everywhere and hitting people in the face. It's amazing how shit you can feel even without a green bogey monster poking you with a snot-covered stick.

First of all, SPM is nearing. Now, that got me thinking. How can i keep up with the studies next year if i can't keep up with it this year? There are like, great, gaping craters of holes in my memory and knowledge, Sejarah and Moral being by far the biggest. And one of the worst things is, i don't do anything about it.

Sure, i can plan to study this and that, whatever. But i don't end up fulfilling any of those plans because i procrastinate. No preseverance. No inspiration. No tracks, no. I'm just sitting here on this here olde leaf, waiting for the wind to blow me somewhere. What if it blows me into a ditch, eh? What if it blows me into a crater? Do i want to end up rock-bottom? And no matter how much all of those scares me...it doesn't scare me enough to make me want to do something, to take control of my life.

I've been inspired, sure. I've been awed by people who can do what i want to do for a living. But after that spur of the moment, i'm back to being a sitting duck. A lotus eater. Enjoying the computer and idling my life away.

And i do not particularly like my hair. I have mixed feelings. It's different (it looks just like a helmet). I think it's kinda girly. I do not like girly. It doesn't suit me, i think. But i have to live with it, because i asked for it. I asked for something different.

Aside from all that pointless ranting you've just read (or glanced through without any particular interest, i wouldn't blame you), i'm going to be applying for a job. God knows whether i'll get one. But if i do manage to get one, i hope i don't screw it up. Maybe i'll manage to get some direction in my life at least.

Cheerio.

Wenzes the Volcano

Study

2009-10-08T15:55:00.003+08:00

Every time i try to study, i seem to find something else better to do.
Like, practice my guitar or clean my room.
Especially clean my room.
Pigsty room.
=(

Haircut, haircut, haircut...
Only 7 more days.

AIYAK

2009-09-22T21:39:00.005+08:00

Ahahah, i haven't updated at all for the past 4 weeks. Been feeling like i was thrown deep down in the deepest pit which was in a smoking crater that's stuffed full of crap and old boots lately. But i feel like updating now.

Why?

Because i just had an awesome time with my brother in OneUtama, that's why.
Man, he's just the best. Don't know what i'd do without him!!

Ahaha. Splattened fish playing tennis.

"Wen, what does the mother tomato say to the baby tomato who's 5 steps behind her?"
"I don't know...give me a clue?"
"Ketchup! Ahahahahhah!!!"

Woot! All the drives in my computer have been upgraded, thanks to Caleb from next door =D So now, i've like 400 GB worth of space to waste! Ahh...imagine how much anime i can download....*drools*

And that's not all! My parents bought a DVD burner too, and a whole stack of DVD's! So, instead of just keeping the anime in my portable drive to rot, i can burn them into CD's and save them until i want to watch them next time, or borrow them to a friend. Leon, you'll be able to watch FullMetal Alchemist after the exams! =)

Also been busy with a thing called Facebook. I was very very against it last time, and i am still against it now. But i'm hooked onto it because of the games. Not social stuff, what do you take me for. I'm mostly a hermit. But i'm also competitive, so as long as i can strive to be better than others in games, i have a purpose. Yes, i have no life. But i didn't have one to begin with, so i better enjoy not having one.

Also been busy with one of the most addictive games of the year. Finished it in three days =) Just need to finish off all the minigames now, heh. It's almost as addictive as Insaniquarium Deluxe!!! And it's called....

PLANTS vs ZOMBIES
!!!

It's more serious than it looks. The zombies will eat your brains if you lose.

Apparently, they wanted to name it Lawn of the Dead, Bloom & Doom, Zom-botony, etc. But couldn't coz of trademark issues XD Popcap suuuure makes interesting (not to mention addictive) games!
And then when you finish playing, the sunflower will sing a VERY VERY CUTE song! DAMN CUTE LARZ.

Umm...yeah, about my studies. Not doing so good. I feel like failing everything for this last term. Ugh. Why am i even going to school. Whatever...i'm going to my brother's college tomorrow to actually try to get some work done. Heard the library there is nice and quiet =)

Hopefully, i'll get some studying done without the distractions of comp-chan. Been slacking off too much lately, and exam's just round the corner. And guess what the first paper is? Bloody Sejarah. *sigh* I tell you, i'm gonna fail badly. But i like the schedule. Not too packed. Although they arranged so that all the classes will come every day =.= That's like, forcing us to come! Geez...i bet they just want to prolong our suffering.

God, please bring me through this exam!

And after exams i have this game to play with Adrian and Wei Zheng. Heh. Hopefully it will be like old times again, when we were playing ASDA. Hopefully =P Also have a date with Melissa. Although we're divorced...we can still be friends, right? =)

Gotta go up for a briefing with my brother soon. Don't know what's it about. About the college tomorrow i guess. We leave at 7.15 am! o.O I might be being sent home by one of his friends. Aaaawkward. But it's a small price to pay, i guess. Gonna study Sejarah tomorrow =/ DOOM.

HEEEEEEAAAAPPPP!!!!!!! =D

College

2009-09-22T21:22:00.001+08:00

Off i go to college tomorrow! =D

2009-09-02T14:17:00.001+08:00

All depends on perception and reaction.
How you perceive, how you react.

Nice one.

2009-08-25T19:10:00.003+08:00

Tech Upgrade from Boyfriend 5.0 to Husband 1.0

Dear Tech Support:

Last year I upgraded from Boyfriend 5.0 to Husband 1.0 and noticed a slow down in the performance of the flower and jewelry applications that had operated flawlessly under the Boyfriend 5.0 system.

In addition, Husband 1.0 un-installed many other valuable programs, such as Romance 9.9, but installed undesirable programs such as NFL 7.4, NBA 3.2 and NHL 4.1.

Conversation 8.0 also no longer runs and Housecleaning 2.6 simply crashes the system. I've tried running Nagging 5.3 to fix these problems, but to no avail. What can I do?

Signed, Desperate

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

Dear Desperate:

First, keep in mind that Boyfriend 5.0 was an entertainment package, while Husband 1.0 is an operating system.

Try to enter the command C:/I THOUGHT YOU LOVED ME and install Tears 6.2.

Husband 1.0 should then automatically run the applications: Guilt 3.3 and Flowers 7.5.

But remember, overuse can cause Husband 1.0 to default to such background applications as Grumpy Silence 2.5, Happy Hour 7.0, or Beer 6.1.

Please remember that Beer 6.1 is a very bad program that will create SnoringLoudly.WAV files. DO NOT install Mother-In-Law 1.0 or reinstall another Boyfriend program. These are not supported applications and will crash Husband 1.0.

It could also potentially cause Husband 1.0 to default to the program: Girlfriend 9.2, which runs in the background and has been known to introduce potentially serious viruses into the Operating System.

In summary, Husband 1.0 is a great program, but it does have a limited memory and can't learn new applications quickly. You might consider buying additional software to enhance his system performance. I personally recommend Hot Food 3.0 and Single Malt Scotch 4.5 combined with such applications as that old stand-by...Lingerie 6.9 (which has been credited with improved performance of his hardware).

Good Luck, Tech Support

Damn, a clean slate.

2009-08-09T20:47:00.003+08:00

Comp reformated, data lost. Whoops, there goes all my bookmarks, games and whatnot.

Mom's been nagging about how i haven't been taking my medicine properly. Sheesh.

I've forgotten what i wanted to post about already. Oh well.

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

Oh yeah, i remember now.

SKIPPING SCHOOL IS ADDICTIVE!

I don't wanna go to school tomorrow. Or the day after that, or after that. In fact, i don't wanna go to school at all anymore.

And that's weird, coz i've always wanted to go to school. Well, not wanted. But i'd feel guilty if i don't. And my brain has always registered it as being a must.

But now it's refusing to go to school!

Blaaaaah. Thank God i don't get sick often.

To go or not to go?

Sick

2009-08-07T10:44:00.002+08:00

Ugh. After 5 whole years of healthiness, Wen is now officially sick.

Symptoms? A really mean sore throat, fever (37.4 - 39.8) that keeps me up at night, cough, abit of headache and body aches.

Being sick just sucks. Can't go to school or tuition, stuck at home, knowing that I'll have to make up for all the work lost when I get better.

It seems like a bug has been going around this week. Melissa and Leon were sick and now Chris and me. And everybody's worried because the h1n1 is spreading like wildfire...

I heard that some Form5 guy in BU2 has a positive case of h1n1. Heard it from the doctor in CP. And their school is so close to ours too...

Hopefully everything will be alright.

I prowl the streets at night

2009-07-28T19:05:00.009+08:00

Oh my gosh i just realized i can resize my pictures here -____________- ALL THOSE MONTHS OF USING MY PREMADE CODE I MADE SPECIALLY FOR MY PICTURES! Took dam freaking long to perfect it too. ARGHGHHGAH.

Moving on.

Forgive ugly drawing!

See that red section that i circled? If you're too lazy to clicky, it shows:

❃ miss.lens ❃: come n visit us for nice contact lens...^^

Woot! Unknown individual/individuals thinks my blog is worth spamming! =D Unfortunately, i don't plan on wearing contact lenses.

Been sorta hectic lately, so i couldn't update...was busy studying you know? Not to mention chores, homewo-

You big fat LIAR! All you've been doing was waste your time and life on Facebook, anime and games!

Hey, it's the return of the conscience! Welcome back! Haven't seen you around in ages! Where have you been?

Your mind was swarming with mountains of pointless stuff. Took months to dig my way to the surface.

But i've started reading books again =) That's not pointless.

True. But what about all that homework that you're supposed to finish? And you haven't drafted a dialogue for your English ULBS with Melissa yet. Plus, you're supposed to design a header for Melissa's new website and 'wow' her! WHATEVER YOU'RE DOING NOW IS SO NOT GONNA WOW HER! AND YOU STILL HALFWAY THROUGH BRIAN'S BIRTHDAY PRESENT!!!

Chill...i'll get to it soon enough. And great, you just gave Brian's surprise away. I hope he doesn't read this... Dialogue? Well, isn't this practicing already? Except that i'm practicing with myself...and arguing with myself...and talking to myself...whatever. And how do you expect me to study when today's Leon's birthday? Not to mention the old house in Sri Sentosa caught fire in one of the rooms and got damaged T_T Now it looks like this!

Tres horrible!

I know~! Even YOU agree with me! T_T

I am definitely going to finish the graphics that i promised. On another completely unrelated note, David Thorne's emails are awesome!!

The Infamous Spider Drawing

David Thorne Winds up Gym Boss and Landlord

Hilarious joker la him.

Things are changing. I can no longer expect things to be how it was or how it used to be. It may never be the same again. As the passages of time ravage us, I cling to what's left and hold onto it desperately. But one day, definitely, I will let go. As my whirlwind of thoughts die down, I will be forced to move on. I will seek for new places, new people. I myself will change too. Slowly, but surely, I'll take one step, and another, and another...

I will go into retreat mode now.

Don't touch me.
Friday, July 31 2009
11:27 PM

IT JUST KEEPS COMING

2009-07-11T22:32:00.002+08:00

Homework, homework, homework.

Scars

2009-07-10T23:36:00.002+08:00

I like scars.

This one should be good.

School

2009-06-30T18:05:00.011+08:00

"Ever since Form4 it's all been downhill, huh?"

"Yeah."

I've been thinking about what i said, and i think it really is true. I haven't gotten high like i used to even once in class. I feel like i'm drifting apart from Sarah, Kim and Wei Hua. And everybody else for that matter. The subjects are getting harder and harder and one of the worst things is, i'm not even gonna be putting ANY of them to good use for my future. I MIGHT EVEN GROW UP TO BE A NEET T_T

I mean, i can stand being alone in tuition or any other place else, but school...? School was where i got to meet my friends and just have fun with them, joke around, laugh like crazy. Now, it's just, school. I don't look forward to it anymore. Well, i've never looked forward much to it in the past, but now i look forward to it even less. It feels like a chore. Yeah, sometimes i have my good days and really bad days in school, but still, it all seems so....monotonous.

One of the good things God has blessed me with is the companionship of Melissa. I can vent my crazinesszes upon her, but there's only so much one can take. Besides, i can't keep talking to only her for the whole day, everyday. We'd run out of topics. Plus having only one specimen is boring. I need like, at least 3 to feel content. Damn, i feel greedy.

Yeah, this is another crap post. Just feeling how i'm feeling right now. School SUCKS.

Pwned.

2009-06-28T21:13:00.005+08:00

A lawyer and a Chinese are sitting next to each other on a long flight.

The lawyer is thinking that all Chinese are so dumb that he could get over on
them, easy. So the lawyer asks if the Chinese would like to play a fun game.

The Chinese is tired and just wants to take a nap, so he politely declines, and
tries to catch a few winks.

The lawyer persists, and says that the game is a lot of fun.

"I ask you a question, and if you don't know the answer, you pay me only $5; you
ask me one, and if I don't know the answer, I will pay you $500,"

he says.

This catches the Chinese's attention and to keep the lawyer quiet,
he agrees to play the game.

The lawyer asks the first question.

'What's the distance from The Earth to the Moon?'

The Chinese doesn't say a word, reaches in his pocket, pulls out a five-dollar
bill, and hands it to the lawyer.

Now, it's the Chinese's turn. He asks the lawyer,

'What goes up a hill with three legs, and comes down with four?'

The lawyer uses his laptop and searches all references he could not find on the Net. He sends e-mails to all
the smart friends he knows, all to no avail. After one hour of searching
he finally gives up.

He wakes up the Chinese and hands him $500. The Chinese pockets the $500 and goes
right back to sleep. The lawyer is going nuts not knowing the answer.

He wakes the Chinese up and asks,

'Well, so what goes up a hill with three legs and comes down with four?'

The Chinese reaches in his pocket, hands the lawyer $5 and goes back to sleep.

Don't mess with Chinese.

clunk

2009-06-21T22:20:00.003+08:00

And then, it hit me.

I need a teacher. I need professional advice!

Someone to spur me on and inspire me!!! Someone that i'm not afraid to talk to! Someone who's not a stupid stranger -_- Someone who knows enough to give constructive criticism about my art!

Now how do i find someone like that.

Argh. This is mundane.

Can you believe it?

2009-06-17T22:42:00.005+08:00

| Mom | Me |

Hey mom, i have good news and bad news.
What is it?
The good news is that i scored the highest in my class for moral! *prouds*
Wow! So what's the bad news?
........i failed.
.............*laughs*
It's the teacher's fault!

Lol, everybody in the class failed. No one passed. Can you believe it? Argh. Sucks la. But it's just moral. 'Sides, i've always failed or came close to failing in this subject ever since i started taking it.

Got my first job from editorial =) [finalleh!] I hope i do good. I'll be designing the Makna Logo and Bryan's gonna help with the Takwim Sekolah page. If i screw this up, looks like i can go die, coz my life ain't gonna be worth living anymore if i can't do something like this.

Argh, my brother's gonna fetch me to school tomorrow. I hate it when he fetches me to school. First, i have to make sure he gets up. Then, he'll get mad at me because i try to make him get up so i can go to school. Right after that, he'll go back to sleep. Later, i have to try and wake him up again, so i won't be late for school. So, he'll get up, grumbling and taking his own sweet time getting ready and everything. By that time, it'll already be about 3 minutes and 32 seconds till the bell rings. And one of the worst things is that i can't be angry with him because if i am, he'll scold me and put the blame on me. Ugh...

I'm gonna draft the english projecto thingo now. Bai gaiz.

Taboo?

2009-06-12T22:34:00.002+08:00

Sarah and Kim says it's taboo to say that school is starting next week.
Sarah and Kim says the main taboo is saying that we're going to get our results next week.

So what? It's fact.

Anyway....i pretty much did not accomplish anything worthwhile during this holiday. As with all other holidays. *insert sigh here*

Except watch anime, but compared to the one week holiday last term, this does not count as progress.
If i could watch the entire 50-episode Blood+ anime in 2 days....plus the movie...so i can critique on the movie coming out soon....
Wish me luck =)

Check my progress here if you're interested -_-

OH, AND BURUPYA IS FREAKING CUTE. I WANT HIM.

I wanna make chocolate chip cookies for my friends =)

2009-06-04T23:44:00.002+08:00

I guess the title says it all. Yep, gonna make choco-chips like nobody's business. To tell you the truth, i'm not a baker. In fact, i've never baked my whole life before. Till last year. I still don't have a love or talent for baking, but i think i'm okay at it. I mean, it's just mixing a whole bunch of stuff in a bowl and dishing the contents out onto a tray. I don't know anything about putting it in the oven though, coz i'm afraid of heat, or anything to do with fire.

Yes, i have a fear of being scalded or burned by boiling water or flickering fire. Why? I don't know. It's a silly fear. But i'm afraid. I'm afraid of being hurt physically. Call me a wimp, but this is me.

I have a theory. The experiences we go through when we were young shape us into who we are somehow. In ways good or bad, i dunno. For example? Umm..

Like when i was young, my brother kept calling me a failure and a loser, and i believed him, so now i'm all pessimistic and i always look at the bad side of things coz i'm a failure and a loser.........

Or like this time, my brother would lock me up in the bathroom and wouldn't let me out with the excuse that he's playing "Ghost School" with me so i won't disturb him while he was doing his homework? Yeah..maybe that's how i always want lots of space so i won't feel trapped like in that bathroom again.

Or i might be just crapping.

How did the topic of making cookies turn to my childhood again? o.O oh well.

Alpha Camp

2009-06-01T20:49:00.013+08:00

The Fruits of the Spirit are love, joy, peace
patience, kindness, goodness
The Fruits of the Spirit are faithfulness
gentleness and self-control

The camp was awesome. Just, pure awesome. Let me elaborate the awesome.
WARNING : PICTURES MAY NOT BE IN ORDER.
DOUBLE WARNING : IF ANY OF YOU THINK THIS IS AN INVASION OF PRIVACY, JUST TELL ME AND I'LL TAKE OFF THE VIDS/PICS INCLUDING YOU.

Day 1 [30th May 2009]
After some last minute packing, my parents dropped me in school at 12.20pm and i walked in. There were around 15 people there, more or less. I felt kinda awkward coz i didn't know any of them. Some of them i've never even seen in my entire life before. That just goes to show how much i know about people in my school. Now i think that what my brother said was true; that i don't really mix around, i just stay in my own circle of friends. For short, i'm an introvert =/ The only people i knew there were Chris and David. Melissa hasn't arrived yet.

At around 12.30pm, more people started to arrive. When everybody came, including Melissa, we all got on the bus and headed off to Rawang =D

The wheels on the bus go round and round.

So lets skip all the boring stuff that happened in the bus. We arrived.

WHERES THE RECEPTIONIST, EH? Come to think of it, they're never there.

Upon reaching the MSB Recreation & Training Centre at around 1.52pm, we all went to the Conference Room with our bags. There, the camp commandants, Zechary and Timothy, briefed us about the camp rules.

Camp commandant is always right.
In case the camp commandant is wrong at any point of the camp, apply rule 1.
Be punctual at all times.
No girls in boys dorms.
No boys in girls dorms.
No BGR during camp. [Boy-Girl Relationship]
No BBR either. [I'm sure you know what this means XD]
Camp commandant is always right.

That's all that i can remember, honestly.

I liked it =)

Encouragement Board that Chris's sister, Natalie, made for the camp. Ain't it neat? People who want to send anonymous encouragements or thanks to other people can do so here. It's a kinda cool idea, i think. I really liked it. LoL, except for the fact that some jokers wrote SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM and stuffed it down their friends envelopes. Not much of an encouragement if you ask me. Although it WAS rather funny.

I'm sure that if you've went to a Christian camp, you've played that Guardian Angel game before right? It's basically like this. Everybody is given a piece of paper with a name on it. The name that you get is your mortal, and you are his/her guardian angel. That means you have to look out for your mortal throughout the camp and try to do nice things for him/her ANONYMOUSLY. Consequently, somebody will be YOUR guardian angel and he/she will have to do nice stuff for you too without you knowing.

For example, giving your mortal drinks/plates of food so that he/she doesn't have to go get it. But you CAN'T let your mortal know that you are his/her guardian angel. It's nice to get things anonymously and try to figure out who your GA is anyway. And at the end of the camp, we reveal our mortals, and it's sorta like a circle. It's fun to see who ur GA is in the end too ^^

My mortal. Oh, gosh. I hope this isn't an invasion of privacy o.O

After we all got our mortals, they asked us to stand up one by one and say our names so that people will know who their mortals are. Then, we were sorted out into four groups. Around 50+ people came for this camp, and there were around 11 to 12 people in every group. Each group had a Form 5 leader and a Form 4 assistant. The number of Form 1's to Form 3's were random i think. Oh, and each group also had a Group Advisor that was a graduate from the school. Basically, they were only supposed to advise the leaders on how to run the group. But lots of people treated them as the leaders coz they were the oldest =P

Then, they introduced cartons of raw eggs to everybody and said that we'd have to look after the egg and it's gonna be like, our child. You are supposed to preserve it till the end of the camp. If anyone breaks his or her egg, their team will lose points and they have to clean up the mess. Which is bad, obviously. This egg-caring thing was supposed to be a lesson for us too, of course. But more on that later. It was now roughly 2.47 pm.

My little kid =)

We were then instructed to go to our dorms to leave our bags and come back later to the Conference Room at 4pm sharp. Meanwhile, between 3 pm till then, we could do whatever we wanted! Of course, being the athletic and sporty school, 1/8 of BU3 students, especially the guys, went straight to play basketball, ping pong, badminton, football etc after dropping their bags at their dorms. Melissa and I went to the dorms to put get rid of our luggage.

Little Dudu and Scratches looking at our kids.

After a bit of dawdling as seen above, we went for a bit of exploring! So that we [at least, I] won't get lost during our time here. I command the pictures to talk.

Campfire ground thingy. We didn't use it though =/

You can't see me but i can see you =)

She was a fugitive desperately in need of provisions. Too bad it was almost always never open.

Oh, so this was where everybody else was at that time.

After exploring, we went to the Conference Room to absorb the AC. And to do some rubbish stuff.

Yep, she is. Just look at that overwhelming fury on her face.

Ah, so this is what we're supposed to do later on.

Shh...i wasn't supposed to touch that.

Yeah, well. That was pretty much it. After the adventures of Melissa and Wen, people started coming in. We were instructed to sit according to our groups and get to know each other, invent a name for our group according to the theme "Fruits of the Spirit", design the group flag and make up our group song. As shown waaaay up above, the fruits of the spirit are love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.

So we had to come up with a name that includes a Fruit of the Spirit as a descriptive term and a fruit that matches it, for example, Patient Papaya or something like that. Don't ask me how a papaya can be patient, i just made it up.

In the end, the names we got were Lovely Apple [hey, that's my group! =D], Joyful Jambu, Self-control Starfruit and Peaceful Peach. I don't know how the others got their names, coz i'm not part of their group, but we chose Love for Apple coz, well, the apple could be shaped like a heart, obviously. I don't have any pictures of the flags, but hopefully i'll find a way to get them when i go back to school =)

And now, the songs! Oh gosh, how do i put this. Our group didn't really discuss about the song XD In the end Joshua just picked the famous Barney Song [yes, THAT Barney Song] and made up hand motions to go along with it. All in all, it took about less that 10 minutes =) So proud. But i really liked the Starfruits one. Sing it in according to the tune of the christmas carol, "Deck the halls".

We the starfruits oh so tasty
Falalalala lalalala
Self-control will make you happy
Falalalala lalalala
Talking crap and breaking rules
You think that is really cool
Stop the nonsense don't be a fool
Falalalala lalalala

Ain't it great? It rhymes and everything! It's no wonder they got 1st for song-singing ^^ Then, we had dinner, where i received the first kind deed by my GA. Thanks again! That reminded me to do something for my mortal too, but i didn't do anything for her that day =/ I should have. *regrets* Nevermind! The next camp, i'm gonna do nice stuff everyday for him/her! ^^

Oh oh oh, i forgot! Joyful Jambu's song was funneh too! Sing it to the tune of Fergalicious!

Four, tres, two, uno!
Listen up ya'll, 'cuz this is joy,
The beat that we're banging is jambulicious!
You can eat me, you can squeeze me,
We are pinky, we are juicy,
We've got reasons why we're joyful,
Joy don't come and go like seasons,
We're Jambulicious!
It's hawt, hawt.

I found it here, heh.

After dinner, we had a shower, blah blah blah...gave our kids a happy personality...

Omelette having a heartfelt conversation with Eggy.

And then we went for worship. To tell you the truth, i thought it was kinda awkward, and not as powerful as the ones at my last camp. People [me, actually] clapped off-rhythm and not all of us were in-sync with the music. I don't know why though.

But anyway, the talk was about BGR. As mentioned above, Boy-Girl Relationship. Personally, i thought it was too open. I mean, i know sex is God's gift for married couples and it's beautiful. But then, i didn't understand why they had to show us disgusting examples of...stuff...oh, no, not porn. No nudity either. Some people thought it was funny, but...ah, maybe i just can't handle reality.

After all that, some of the people came out to talk to us and tell us why all this stuff was bad. And some of them shared their life experiences with us. Can you believe that this couple, Terence and Deb, had their first kiss only on their wedding day? I think that's pretty cool. I mean, to save your virginity for the person you are going to be with forever, i understand. But this was a kiss! I mean, up until now, i thought, a kiss was, y'know, just a kiss. Nothing as special as virginity. But then, to save that first kiss for that person you are going to be with your whole life, now THAT was a challenge.

Deb explained to us how it was like. Picture a little boy in the living room on Christmas Eve. A christmas tree decorated with lights and baubles. And under the tree, a huge present, bigger and more perfect than all the others, wrapped in shiny paper and glittery stars, topped off with a sparkly bow. Y'know, everything a child could want. The little boy wanted to open it soooo badly. But his mom told him he could only open it at 12 am. And it was only 7 pm! The little boy waited and waited.

It was 10 pm. All his other relatives had opened their presents and they knew what was inside. But the shiny present was still there, unwrapped, right in front of him. He really really wanted to know what was inside. But mummy told him he could only open it at 12 am! The little boy waited and waited.

At 11.55 pm, all his relatives had taken their gifts and gone off home. Present wrappers littered the floor. But the little boy still sat there, waiting. Waiting for the time when he can open his present. Because mommy said, he could only open it at midnight.

At exactly 12 am, the boy opened his present. And then, you get this satisfaction. The satisfaction that you can only get because you waited to open the present. The satisfaction of knowing that you waited to know what was inside the gift.

Do you think it would be the same if the little boy had just taken a little peek inside just before Christmas day? Would it have been the same if he opened it, already knowing what was inside? No, it wouldn't have, would it? He would've already soiled the gift by unwrapping it. No matter how hard he tries to wrap it back into it's original state again, it will never be the same. It won't be perfect anymore. And that is how virginity is.

Day 2 [31th May 2009] [unofficial - have not slept yet]
That was really meaningful to me. And then...back to educational sex talk =.=

Lets just skip all the girly sex talk. I had a great time hanging out with Melissa and Chris till around 3 am. We listened to music, talked, watched a fire burn. It was just nice to be in the company of friends. Also, i learned that i hallucinate when i don't get enough sleep. I saw quite a number of disappearing shadows that day. I hope they weren't dead people. *shudders*

Went to bed at 4 am. Man, the room was freezing! The bed complained because we didn't get into it earlier and threatened to wake up the other girls. I think it did. But who cares. The bed always complains anyway. It's almost as whiny as me. That's why i like to tease it so much XD And that concludes the first day =)

Day 2 [31th May 2009] [official =D]
Slept like a rock. Or so Melissa says. Of course pokes can't wake me up! =D

Woke up at 7 am. Went down for breakfast. Took a quick shower. Went to the Conference Room. Worshiped. It felt better than yesterday =) And then, service.

Now, THIS service was REALLY meaningful. It really got me thinking. What will the future be like? Will i ever be able to have a personal relationship with God? I'm going to try harder now.

Heads up to these five. Zechary Chin, Timothy Ong, Natalie Tan, Esther Chee and Eric Chee. They're planning to serve God full time. Really admire their commitment in this. Hopefully God will show them what to do and give them strength and courage whenever they're feeling down.

After that awesome and heartfelt service, it was a career talk/personality test. I won't really go into this much. Just that i feel that if i ever want to be better at graphics, i should freaking practice MORE.

Oooookay, lunch time =) and then games in order. Obstacle course, Soda drinking plus banana eating, spin-running, egg-throwing, hair wetting and tug of war =D Pictures, talk! Please.

Personally, i thought this was an awesome shot.

There were others, but i couldn't take any pictures of those.

Right after that, most of us went swimming XD WITHOUT showering, lol. After dinner, it was practice for our skits! ^^ We did some serious brainstorming for this. I mean, we only had an hour.

The skits were supposed to be based on our group names of course. Love was easy. The love God had for his people, love towards your brothers, love towards your family, love towards your neighbour and God's love towards everyone. We just played out some main scenes from the bible and made it funny. And in every single scene, Darryl was sorta like the beaten-up person or victim, lol. Even in the Moses scene [he was the horse of the pharaoh], the scene where he was the brother that got beaten up and then sold off to a slave-buyer, the scene where he got scammed of his money, the scene where he was the Jew that got beaten up again and the scene where he was Jesus and died on the cross. In this last scene, even Joshua, the narrator, got up and beat him with the script saying "We keep beating you up but you always come back!".

Then we had to sing our group song again and show our banners and why did we draw these designs and stuff. We sang the exact same Barney Song...but we had a guitar this time! Played by Joshua =) Still got the same place though XD

Eh! We tied with Starfruit! =D

After that, we had some time to kill. So what can a big group of campers do on a dark and stormy[not really] night? Play Mafia of course!

Day 3 [1st June 2009] [unofficial]
Now, i'm not gonna explain in detail about the game here, you guys will have to search it up for yourselves. All i've gotta say is that if you're a civilian, it's NO fun. Unless if you're an outspoken civilian that likes to argue with everything. All of us played mafia till round 1 am.

Hung out with Melissa and Chris again till 3. Haha, an example of my hallucinations really came into this. Chris and me were in the canteen looking for Melissa. It was all dark and i saw a light hovering near the top of the table. I thought it was the light of Melissa's cellphone and she was listening to music so i ran towards it calling "Melissa!" Turns out, it was nothing more than a reflected light. Ish. Went to sleep at around 3, leaving Melissa alone with only MyPod for company. Sorry.

Day 3 [1st June 2009] [official]
Argh, the last day T_T time really passed like a zip. My biological clock woke me up at exactly 8.03 am. Panicked coz it was exactly time for breakfast. Woke Melissa up. She said she wanted to go shower o.O Hurried down to the canteen and found...nobody =.=

Apparently, at 5 am, Zechary went to the boys dorm with the microphone and started shouting them up for some morning exercise. As there were other people that were not from our school sleeping in other dorms, they had no choice but to get up so Zech wouldn't wake the other peoples. They had to run laps around the pool and do star-jumps XD Because the camp commandant is always right. And i think Zech also took their shoes and hid them around the swimming pool. Soo...everyone hates Zech. Oh, and that's also why everybody else was sleeping.

So i had some breakfast while listening to the story as mentioned above by people that gradually came and joined the table. After breakfast, went to the Conference Room and sat in our groups. Worshiped a little with really cute songs and then played another game. Throughout this whole camp you were supposed to get to know people right? Well, this was how the game goes.

2 group advisors will have to hold a big piece of cloth between 2 groups so that the members of the groups won't be able to see each other. Each group will send someone out to the very front of the group. When the whistle is blown, the advisors will let the cloth down so that the person in front will see the other's face. Whoever can say the person's name correctly first will get one point for their group. However, if you say the name wrongly, your team will lose one point. If you don't say anything at all, you're safe =) No points lost or given.

After that, Guardian Angel revealing time =) Points were taken off from the groups of the people who didn't do anything for their mortals =/ 'cuz the whole point of being a guardian angel is to look after your mortal and make sure they get what they need.

Now it was time to check the eggs =) All in all, every team broke or lost 2 eggs. So we all tied. Actually, this was supposed to be a lesson for us. On how we were supposed to take care of our life. See, our life is fragile. Just like an egg. Eggs were left everywhere during the camp. So apparently, i left my life in my bed...but seriously, if an egg breaks, you won't get a second chance in life.

Now for awards! =) Guess who won? Heheh.

Hee~

Lets see...Eric Chee got the best camper award...more speeches and thanks were given out. Oh, and Natalie gave a really interesting testimony. Gave me something to think about.

Heh, then it was time for pictures. Took a nice big one with all of us in it =) No group ones though. I was kinda disappointed about that, but nevermind.

Now here comes something funny. The whole morning the guys were talking about throwing Zech in the pool for waking them up so early in the morning, yea? Well, that's exactly what they did now =)

Well, then we had lunch, packed our bags and we were free to do whatever we wanted till 2. Most of the campers went swimming. Melissa and me joined a game of Captain Ball. It was quite fun. Although i wasn't really much help =P

And then we boarded the bus and went home. The end.

Give us clean hands
Give us pure hearts
Let us not give our souls to another

Oh God let us be a generation that seeks
Seeks your face, oh God of Jacob

Awesome experience, this camp.

Leaving

2009-05-30T12:11:00.002+08:00

LoL, i was doing some last minute packing while texting Melissa, and i found out that she accidentally reset the lock on her bag and she didn't know the combination. So she had to break the lock with a wrench XDDDD

Gotta go now. See you guys online on Monday. Bye guys =)

I just got bored, m'kay?

2009-05-30T01:17:00.004+08:00

I looked in the mirror and what did i see,
Something different, but it wasn't me.
Was my reflected face, yep that's true,
And so did i ask as to i was to who?

Status : Packing

Spontaneous rhyme, i know it sucks.
You don't have to tell me, it sounds like ducks.
Just got bored at this time of night.
Tomorrow i'll have to leave, when sky turns to light.

Looks like another late night for me,
Again i wonder: "Am i staying up till three?"
Now i should go and pack my bags,
For if i don't, i'll experience setbacks.

Time taken : 9 minutes.

Nao go away.

Function

Problem?

To the brim.

Who's Afraid of The Big Bad Wolf?

Icy

Stay tuned

Freedom

Language

TOO quick.

My First Love

Christmas?

Encouragement

*thunk*

Different

Isn't it funny how day by day nothing changes, but when we look back everything's different?

Gone

Paranoia

Inception

The Hanging Tree

A Father's Love

Servicing the Nation

Overprotected

Lost Phone

Shut Up or I'll Defenestrate You

Confrontation

Hell yeah!!

What If's

Why Red? 20 Reasons.

Sunlight

Movie Moment

So...

Emotions

Downloading 2.3%...

Need You Now

Operation Beautiful ♥

Jogging Fiasco + Gambling Success

Us Chinese

Kickoff to the Tiger's Year & Valentines

What If?

Those Were The Days

Between The Lines

Summarization

My Life Is Average

Rules

2009

Master Plan : Secrets Revealed!

So here's to the birthday boy who saved our lives

Spread the love ♥

Zombies? Zombies!

Go get your shovel

The Prices Are Crippling!

Layout change ahoy!

#009 Tag

Moony moony moony

One week

Deluded

Study

AIYAK

College

Nice one.

Damn, a clean slate.

Sick

I prowl the streets at night

IT JUST KEEPS COMING

Scars

School

Pwned.

*clunk*

Can you believe it?

Taboo?

I wanna make chocolate chip cookies for my friends =)

Alpha Camp

Leaving

I just got bored, m'kay?

thunk

clunk