my journal

Finally, a dream come true!

2010-07-16T12:05:00.000+08:00

Sunset

2010-06-19T11:27:00.000+08:00

Taken in Malacca

Playful Kittens

2010-06-09T21:46:00.000+08:00

Taken outside Mimosa Hotel, Malacca

Bridge to nowhere

2010-06-06T17:02:00.000+08:00

Taken at Protuguese Square, Malacca

A William Shedd Quote

2010-05-24T16:57:00.000+08:00

“A ship is safe in harbor, but that's not what ships are for.”
- William Shedd

Stolen Bike! Please help to look out

2010-05-17T18:25:00.004+08:00

My friend's Kona Caldera got stolen from her front porch in the landed property in Kembangan area. Drop me a call/ message if you do see it. Thanks!

We Are the Champions!

2010-04-23T14:54:00.000+08:00

Jubilant!

2010-04-16T12:21:00.001+08:00

Teh Tarik

2010-04-15T13:38:00.000+08:00

People in need passed without a second thought

2010-04-08T21:41:00.000+08:00

Beauty is in the eyes of its beholder

2010-04-06T14:21:00.000+08:00

Beauty is in the eyes of its beholder;
Welcome to Thailand!

Ship Modelling

2010-03-31T12:32:00.000+08:00

One of my other passions besides photography and music.
My dream of a career aboard one of these vessels may soon be coming true =)

I Thought of You

2010-02-06T01:21:00.002+08:00

As I sat by the window and watched the weather change,
I thought of you and how you used to make my dark day bright.
Just like the weather, you were unpredictable.
But still, I loved you anyway

1 year on, the feeling still remains

Happy Valentine's Day!

2010-01-29T14:48:00.000+08:00

Love; from a biomechanist point of view

2009-12-14T18:57:00.001+08:00

Photo from: http://www.elementlist.com/images/angular_momentum.gif

An Inspiration

2009-10-28T13:37:00.000+08:00

A true endurance athlete with a Never-say-die attitude!

Sweet Child O' Mine

2009-10-24T21:56:00.000+08:00

Memories

2009-10-24T02:22:00.000+08:00

Enemy Through Bino Lens

2009-09-24T22:28:00.000+08:00

Mission Accomplished, Target Destroyed

2009-09-23T16:49:00.000+08:00

Goodbye

2009-09-22T10:55:00.001+08:00

When the tide turns and the wind blows, it's time to say goodbye.
Have fun and be well...all who are leaving for internship.

All-Terrain Tyres!

2009-09-06T14:34:00.000+08:00

Reaching Out

2009-09-04T10:40:00.000+08:00

Companion on my bicycle

2009-08-27T11:16:00.000+08:00

In my father's foot steps

2009-08-25T11:28:00.000+08:00

Zen of life

2009-08-24T11:27:00.000+08:00

The correct balance and focus is the path to success

Sailing

2009-08-21T00:37:00.001+08:00

Autumn @ Changi Beach

2009-08-18T09:57:00.001+08:00

Red Flowers

2009-08-17T15:26:00.000+08:00

A Rare Find

2009-08-16T17:35:00.002+08:00

Reminiscing

2009-08-15T22:08:00.001+08:00

Accidental Find

2009-07-11T18:20:00.002+08:00

Something beautiful I stumbled upon while having an outdoor lesson at Admiralty Park.

Via Ferrata Singapore!

2009-06-15T14:32:00.004+08:00

The first Via Ferrata wall in Singapore! 30m of fun and adrenaline. Not forgetting the awesome Canon D10 which took all these fabulous photos =))

That's me on the wall, last man in a team of 4. Had a 'nice' view of 3 butts above me.

That's me again..see how high it is. And it's only 15m!

The 4 buddies who experienced Via Ferrata together =)

RP Sunset II

2009-05-15T23:35:00.001+08:00

Another personal favourite

Sunset from RP

2009-04-25T00:20:00.001+08:00

Changi Beach

2009-03-15T11:58:00.001+08:00

Finally took some time off to visit nature and get some 'me' time =)

I is Strong!

2009-02-11T09:57:00.001+08:00

Done out out of boredom...
Mr Turtle is so strong he can lift my jackknife. And mind u, it caused me a bruised toe when some mangkok dropped it on my 2nd toe during a camping trip.

Untitled

2009-01-24T21:32:00.003+08:00

The last presentation is over
The class is empty
As I walk down the corridor
I turn to take a last look at you

When will I see you again?
Will I ever see you again?
The questions came
The sadness set in

You thanked me for a great year
I wished you all the best in your future
Those were the last words we exchanged
How I longed to say "I'll miss you" instead

Happiness

2009-01-13T23:21:00.002+08:00

Finally...a podium finish. After 2 years of racing, and 6 months of training under coach, efforts have paid off.

The AWESOME bug!

2008-12-28T13:00:00.002+08:00

Even 8Days has caught on the AWESOME bug =))
Allerz to the super-spreader of the bug!

AWESOME!!!

2008-12-21T14:35:00.000+08:00

An AWESOME day out with AWESOME people!
Cheers to you guys =)

Reality of Time

2008-12-04T08:23:00.006+08:00

It takes only
a second to meet someone,
a minute to know someone,
an hour to like someone and
a day to love someone.
But it takes a lifetime to forget.

Penned on a Starbucks napkin over a mug of hot Toffee Nut Latte. Mel should stop going to Starbucks.

Rainbow!!! and birds =)

2008-11-28T08:31:00.001+08:00

A rainbow to brighten your day =)
(Accidental photo)

Time

2008-11-25T16:58:00.004+08:00

Time. Something so simple and abundant, yet so difficult to get our hands on.
Sometimes, all we need is just to spend a little quality time with the people who matter to us. But alas, life goes on...

"THE" Run

2008-11-03T11:59:00.003+08:00

A 10km trail run(Salomon X-Trail 2008) to mark my 18th birthday. Ran with Jess, Kai and Cyril.
10km of sweat, blood, mud, water, trails... How more exciting can it get!

Kai, Jess and myself

Our shoes after the run.
Retirement run for the 2 non-Salomon shoes, their owners have converted to Salomon camp! Wahahahaha....

Birthday Celebration

2008-11-03T08:20:00.003+08:00

With Claud, Fath, Jeanne, Meng and Ting. Thanks guys! Really enjoyed the dinner :)

Dinner!

My Cake

The Gang

On my mind

2008-10-31T22:25:00.003+08:00

Something that has been weighing on my mind recently, thus the haitus in postings.
Thought out on a Starbucks napkin; the only paper available...

A Trip to Bangkok [Part 4 - The Old Times]

2008-09-15T16:19:00.002+08:00

A rare find, doubt it can be found in local traditional Chinese medical halls

Sunday @ RSAF Open House 2008

2008-08-31T15:48:00.003+08:00

This...is where I spent my Sunday morning =)

Truly enjoyed myself, a humble thank you to all the organisers.

Bringing you "Saving Private Ryan, RSAF style". As narrated by MelChua ;)

Here comes the rescuers

We've got him! Head back, head back!

Escape is near...

Go go go! Everyone up!

Surround him! Shield him! Support him!

Everyone's up. Let's go.

A Trip to Bangkok [Part 3- The Strong Men]

2008-08-28T11:11:00.003+08:00

The strong men who are unfazed by the heavy load. I'm sure you are all appreciated =)

The perfect job for the hot weather (that's ice btw)

A Trip to Bangkok [Part 2- Street Hawkers]

2008-08-26T01:55:00.011+08:00

A common sight in Bangkok - street hawkers. Let's start from the more mobile hawkers...

... the not-so-mobile ones...

...and the stalls (non-mobile)...

A Trip to Bangkok [Part 1- Lepak!]

2008-08-26T01:16:00.007+08:00

Let's start with something more laid back and chill...

I love my k770i

2008-08-17T10:10:00.003+08:00

I love the camera in my Sony Ericsson. It's so much better than Nokia's quality, and best thing is...it can take macro shots! Check these out, taken yesterday in my grandfather's garden =D

The Ride to Ubin

2008-08-14T17:06:00.005+08:00

It was a great ride,
all the laughter and smiles
Wish it could be longer
I promise the next time will be

True Friendship

2008-08-09T10:20:00.003+08:00

It's true friendship that can endure this long, through youth, working life and old age. Although some have said that this looks more like Brookeback Changi =S

P.S. This photo was taken on my dad's old film camera, Nikon FM10 =) I think I'm switching back to old school!

This Morning

2008-07-23T09:20:00.005+08:00

I saw peace amidst the chaos,
calm within the storm

I stood and observed the swaying trees,
the rustling leaves,
the rush of the morning crowd

Saw the impending storm in the distance,
consuming the rising sun;
Slowly but surely, bit by bit

I lift my head to the heavens;
take in the orange skies,
feel the patter of rain on my face,
fill my lungs with sweet morning air

A sense of peace, sense of calm
my world has stopped revolving;
Stuck in this moment of bliss...

First Class Seat

2008-07-14T14:31:00.001+08:00

Pooh Bear watching a rock climb comp!! First-class seats yeah..

AR Training

2008-07-11T10:57:00.001+08:00

This is how my white shirt looks like after AR training yesterday. Hopefully I can plan equally tough trainings in future.
Seriously 'Prison Break'!

NP Adventure Race - The Pinnacle 2008

2008-06-30T14:06:00.002+08:00

I'm alive!! Yes, I survived The Pinnacle 2008. Through all the concussions and fractures, I'm a survivor; we are survivors. 3hr 25mins...

From Left: Kai, Myself, Tong, MeiQi, Clyde, Steven

Another race!

2008-06-25T16:00:00.002+08:00

New race; The Pinnacle 2008, organised by Ngee Ann X-ventures. It's taking place this Sat, 28 June 08. Pre-race jitters, stress, training..tell me about it. It feels like Adv S'pore 07 all over again (3wks of training for a total newb?!)

Await the race report =S (That's if I'm still alive)

My Views

2008-06-20T10:42:00.002+08:00

Endurance Races Run Into Litany of Complaints(http://www.straitstimes.com/Free/Story/STIStory_249640.html)

Here's what I think, from the perspective on an endurance athlete (adventure racing is counted right?) as well as from the perspective of a race organiser (Avontuur de Republic 08).

Endurance Athlete:
Wa la! So many races on the calender, this is going to be so exciting. Variety to choose from, more races to motivate myself during training and more chances to widen my social network or like-minded athletes.
If I can't manage the XXX 21km run, maybe I'll try XYZ 15km run. Not bad right? At least it gives me more time to train up and complete the race =)

Yes, some athletes tend to look at who the organisers are as this can also tell (a)if the race is going to be a good one, (b)roughly the size of the crowd and (c)the cost of the race. I do think this is important, but given the lack of adventure races in S'pore, don't have much of a choice; train hard and attend all that the school is willing to subsidise =P

Race Organiser:
We always hope for the best to happen, that everything will go well and everyone will have a ball of a time. BUT, there will always be a worst-case scenario we haven't thought of (or refused to think about). But other times, it is really not our fault that the situation calls for an unaviodable change. However, we do have the responsibility of making sure every competitor (and marshal for this matter) gets the correct information and is able to complete the race based on the instructions given.
Much as we can, there will not be last minute changes and alway always (I cannot stress this more) have a back-up plan! Yes, do it once, do it good; but there are always things beyond our control.
We put in our best in hope that everyone will be able to challenge themselves and go one step further, our only wish is that the participants out there understand that we are doing our best.

Everyone seems to be jumping on the bandwagon of endurance races (adventure races, marathons, vertical marathons, biathlons, duathlons...) It's fine, perfectly in line with "A Sporting Singapore". It's fun for everyone but please, if you are an inexperienced organiser, do seek help and support for the race. Check your dates and locations, make sure it does not clash with other races/activities/events. Make sure everyone is clear about their job scope and NEVER NEVER assume. If you are not sure how an adventure race goes, ask. If your not sure of the usual procceedings of a triathlon, ask. Most importantly, do NOT do this for profit. Endurance races is not a business opportunity! Lastly, this last paragraph goes for all events/competitions, not just endurance races.

The Zahir by Paulo Coelho

2008-06-10T11:19:00.005+08:00

Just finished a really really good (in my honest opinion) book , The Zahir by Paulo Coelho. Yes, it's rare to hear that Mel is reading a novel - a big step away from the usual magazines, so this also proves that the book is darn good. Here's a brief summary and some of the things that struck me.

It's basically about a man who finally found true love and gets motivation from his true love to pursue his passion for writing. He starts to take this love for granted when his career takes off and then one day, he suddenly loses this true love. The book then goes on to talk about his journey to find it again, through the trials of temptation, hate, comfort, cluelessness and a sense of loss. It may sound really cliched, but when you read the book, the author manages to describe it with words that really sink in and impact you.

Then comes the ending that is really really romantic (yes, as "tough" and "garang" as Mel may look, she does have a soft and romantic side; though it may only be 0.07% of her). There is a thorough description of what goes through the protagonist mind and heart as he goes on a journey to find his wife again. Especially the part where he is just outside her door =)

Read it for yourself to get the full story, this is only my version of it. Even Bear bear, Eeyore and Mr Turtle enjoyed it!

First Summit - Gunung Datuk

2008-06-03T09:53:00.003+08:00

Goodbye to all the bad memories of not being able to summit Ledang, or not being able to make it for all the other treks like Stong or Nuang. I have finally made my first ascent! It may be easy, but the pride and all is still there; I made it!

This was quite a slow-paced and easy trek up and down, as there were some who were having a little difficulty. However, I salute you for persevering and completing the trek. Respect.

According to the signage at base camp, it was a leisure route which would take 2hrs, but we took a whole 3hr 30mins to ascend. Heavy backpacks? I've got to say the terrain was not very friendly for some, with all the constant; 90% step-like terrain. Some parts even had a 45% gradient which reminded me of rock climbing. It was a hinderance, especially the big backpacks. No excuse, but we do need more training.

Way up was fun, with all the calls for "Carooommees!!" (Caromes). Haha..I'm sure Caromes felt loved. That blur king, didn't watch his steps and almost knocked his head into a low branch. Haha..he was like "I saw you go across so easily I though there was nothing there" Sorry Bro... His 2nd accident had nothing to do with me, his hat got stuck onto a leave full of thorns. I had to go help him free. Blur king, but I've gotta commend him for being fully prepared.

When we reached the summit, the other groups had their tents ready pitched and it was only our tent left. Shocker; some, I mean most of them did not know how to pitch the tent?! And this was covered during training I'm sure! Tent was still up in the end, but with help from the seniors.

We then climbed higher to catch the beautiful sunset. The climb up was a bit scary, big boulders, rusty ladders and all. One wrong step and bye bye. But the sunset, it was awesome! Stupid me, decided not to bring my camera up at all, not even the compact one -_-" Never felt so dumb before.

Next up was dinner and debrief for Day 1. A few of us also played an unforgettable game of heart attack, Caromes the blur king provided lots of laughter and entertainment. Will not say more as I still value my life. Ask me personally if you want to know ;P There wasn't enough tents so a few of the seniors ended up sleeping outside. Nice view, counting stars and even shooting stars!! FWAH! It was freezing however, tee-shirt + jacket + sleeping bag = still freezing.. But it was worth it, all the chit chat and free aircon.

Daybreak! With all the dark clouds and thunder rolling in, we got a little worried and worked out a contingency plan. Thank God the weather held up and we were able to go up the summit again to catch the sunrise and all. Did a few rock climbing poses on the boulder, wait till the photos get in =)) The boulders there were really huge and fun for bouldering, all the natural finger grips. There was a small cave under the summit, went in to take a look but didn't stay long.

Descend was expected to take a shorter time, but i think we took quite long as well. Slippery terrain, 2 casualities and unhappy people. But it was still fun. 2 of them fell down the slope, one hurt her back, the other sprained her ankle. Kai carried the one with the sprained ankle down, together with Keith, Faiz and Caromes, while Nisa and I helped the one who hurt her back down. It wasn't easy, going down backwards and having to turn my head to look behind. Almost slipped a few time, but praise God, I'm fine! Wahahaha...

Finally reached base camp, and the rest were already in the water. It was time to wash-up and catch the bus back to Tampin town. Was a little late so Hazel, Dian and I had to run out to catch up with the rest. Macham amazing race! Hahaha.

From here on, it was makan @ KFC, bus back to JB and then back to S'pore! Home Sweet Home! Really enjoyed myself, thanks TrekEarth for allowing me on this trip, Caromes for the entertainment and Kai and Kai's daddy for the lift to Kranji MRT at 6am on Sat morning. Also thank God for the safe and memorable trip, I hope I'll grow closer to you as time goes by.

Picture time!!

Who says that adventurer's don't have/cannot have a soft side huh! But these soft toys only belong to Caromes (diver), Kai (adventure racer) and I (adventure racer).

View from the top of Gunung Datuk

An outcrop on the summit

The route up the summit; notice the rusty ladder?

And that's me, Eeyore and Mr Turtle on the summit

Of anniversaries and birthdays!

2008-05-30T00:53:00.005+08:00

29 May 2008 is the 50th Anniversary of the 1st ascent of Mt Everest!

It was also the 1st anniversary/birthday of the Adventure Racing IG in RP! This is a reminder that we are no longer beginners/freshies, we MUST achieve something this year. No more excuses, no more going for experience. Now, it's going to win and to conquer!

With the coincidence of dates, all the more we must motivate ourselves to do the best we can. All in the name and spirit of adventure.

The RP Adventurers' Creed 2008:
In adventure we believe; as one, we shall experience, explore and excel!

The Epic Adventure - Pengerang Cycling Trip

2008-05-20T10:16:00.004+08:00

This was meant to be a day trip, meaning we should be home for dinner. But, we went for something more EPIC, and we made it home in time to sleep. Nevertheless, no one is complaining! Wahahaha..it was it really really good experience, and I wouldn't mind doing it again =D Papa said we made 'Band of Brothers' look like a gameshow.

Let's start off here. Papa and mummy started off their adventure with a 21km bike fr Woodlands down to Sengkang. From there, Kai and I joined them and we headed down to Changi Village via Old Tampines Rd. We were a little late, and Caromes was already waiting for us there. Breakfast was on Papa! Haha..cos he made us wait =)

Next was the bumboat ride to Pengerang. A 1hr boat ride in the sun; we sat right at the back and played some poem game. Damm fun lah! Was already slightly burnt when we arrived. Pengerang was like a small seaside village, a lot of greenery and 'kampung' sights. Trip to the town was fun, we did about 17-18kmh..at some point even 15kmh. The town was nice, many seafood restaurants. Had lunch at one of them; lobster, toufu, veg, ... power! The bike ride back to the jetty was more power, 20-21kmh!

If you think the adventure ends here, I'm sorry; it just started. Last bumboat was suppose to be 1600hrs, and we were there at 1530hrs. Still, no boat came, and we were stranded! We tried calling for help, but there were no more seats on the boats..no more taxis to ferry us (all the others had taken the cabs to JB to cross over to S'pore). In the end, we managed to share a lorry with another group of cyclist, cost us RM150. We then change to a car and took a 2hr ride to JB, this cost us RM160. Car ride was..erm..fast and erm..exciting. 160kmh!! Mind-blowing!

Causeway was jammed as usual, so we alighted 2km from the causeway and walked through the rest. This is where it gets really exciting..hopping from island to island to avoid traffic, walking by the side along with crazy motorcyclist, carrying our bikes through traffic and along a narrow pathway. At the immigration, we took the motorbike lane..haha. The M'sia side was a bit bo chup but the S'pore side was quite strict. We got quite a scolding from them. Well..things happen ya.

After that, it was an exciting bike ride through the causeway and back to Woodlands after the S'pore immigration. Dinner was at the foodcourt nearby, was almost half asleep. Ride back to school was hapspening, chiong all the way though Woodlands Town Park and Marsiling MRT!! Reached at about 2300hrs. From there..it was home, unfortunately to a lot of nagging.

May have left out some details..for my safety, and some because of my excitement to recall the epic memory from my 64MB brain..

Forgot something..I'm a si gin nah. Hahahah! Cos I chased a chicken while cornering into the drinks stall. It was coming towards me and I was going at like 18kmh before the turn. Sorry chicken..Muahahahaha

Mountain or River??

2008-05-08T12:44:00.005+08:00

Something interesting I read...

Some people aspire to be like a mountain; strong, steady, and never wavering. Others aspire to be like a river; always flowing, travelling, changing and shaping others, and joining the big picture to make bigger changes.

But I beg to defer. A mountain is fixed and rigid, always looking at the same view everyday. It also gets shaped and influenced by elements such as wind. The river will dry up one day, and when it joins the big picture, it gets tossed around.

To me, I think it's most important to follow your heart and be flexible about many things. You can plan and aspire all you want, but things may not always go your way. Be prepared to change your stance from being a mountain to being a river. That's life.

If you are not living on the edge, you're taking up too much space.

SMU Volar! 2008

2008-04-28T09:44:00.004+08:00

Kenna teepu race...Went there expecting an adventure race but ended up doing an amazing race. The difference, we took transport and had NO road marshalls or signages! We got lost so many times. $60 bucks rege fees went into cable car and entry fee to Sentosa.

0630-Meet up at City Hall MRT
0640-Walked to SMU Informatics System building to register
0730-Flag off
After that, we were running all the way to National Stadium. Went through Padang, City Hall MRT, Marina and then Kallang. Next clue got us stumped, cos there was a mistake. Still, we confirmed with a street directory before heading to bus to Queensway. Hollan there "-_-
Did a 40storey vertical marathon there before procceding to the swimming complex to dive 2.5m. Couldnt make it, Kai Lan did the dive for me. Thks bro!
Again, we bused to Mt. Faber, kena teepu by an uncle, alighted too late! Went round the wrong side of the mt. and ended up taking a lot more time. Capt cycled up the slope while the rest of us walked.
Finally cable car-ed to Sentosa where we went around to the Carlsberg Tower, Southernmost point of S'pore and then to the end point at Tanjong Beach. Mmmy and Papa suddenly came running with the camera towards us. Thks for coming Mummy and Papa, esp Papa who had to rush off for his date! By them it was 2pm I think. Didnt check.
Sorry if we made you guys worry, we lived up to our name; Republic Fruit Basket!

Body Marking

Pep Talk by Mummy!

Team New Balance!

Looking at the Map

Off We Go!

Finally...we arrive

A Well-deserved Dip in the Sea

Our New Balance Shoes after the race. Well-done!

Thks Mummy for coming down at 0630 to support us and waiting for us till 1400hrs!
Thks Papa for taking the photos, coming down at 0630 to support us and waiting till 1400hrs. You were almost late for your date =P
Love you guys many many!!

ALC Commitment Activity

2008-04-27T21:05:00.004+08:00

This is the very last activity of the ALC 3D2N Leadership Camp. All who have been through OBS would be familiar with this commitment activity.
In this case, participants have to say out their commitment before leaping off the pamper pole to reach for the bar (The Leap Of Faith). Let me take you through.

Instructors gearing up/setting up

The Step of faith up the pamper pole

The Leap!

You're in safe hands

A favourite, the sunset over Sports Complex

Babysitter for a Morning

2008-04-26T16:49:00.003+08:00

Babysat a church member's kid today. He was quite hyper, so I brought him to the playground (didn't want him glued to the TV the whole day). Here's what we did at the playground.
I thought him to ROCK CLIMB!! How cool is that huh! Later, he tried his hand at wrecking, oops, I meant playing my guitar. Hapspening!!

Pardon the quality, it wasn't taken with the usual D70, but with my nokia 6288.

SMU Volar! AdvRace

2008-04-23T15:12:00.002+08:00

Another race this weekend, the SMU Volar!. Wow factor, it's at Sentosa! Do I hear you scream? Hahaha..watch this space for more. For now, it's training carefully =)

Kena teepu. I'll tell u more tmr. Need my zzzzzzzz

RP Sunset

2008-04-05T00:35:00.002+08:00

Was down in RP for freshmen orientation today. Fun, but super burnt. I think I enjoyed myself most during the leapfrog record breaking. More on that in the next post. For now, a beautiful sunset from the RP campus. Prepare to go green with envy! =)

Think

2008-04-02T13:17:00.003+08:00

2 days ago, someone asked me a question that got me thinking about my faith. "U still go to church right?"
Am still wondering where I stand now, not been going for YM since Jan 2008 and I'm even going to miss Funtosa..damm it!

Note: Notice how strange that the 77th post (this one) has to do with God?? Freaky =S

A dose of laughter

2008-03-23T18:12:00.001+08:00

Ladies and Gentlemen, a dose of weekend laughter for the highly disturbed soul. This was taken from the window of a bus.

Gold roses

2008-03-18T10:27:00.004+08:00

Still trying to get a hang of using macro lens. Made these roses from Ferrero Rocher wrappers =)

A Journey of Discovery

2008-03-07T10:55:00.005+08:00

Here we go...I'm leaving for a 3 day camp soon and I'm not feeling even a little excited. This has never happened before and you know what I think, I'm becoming more and more homely and family orientated. Not that it's a bad thing, but this really needs a bit of thinking.

Over the past 3 days (or 1 day eventually) of work, I've realised something...I'm pretty much a one-off person. I don't enjoy doing camps like I used to, I don't even enjoy being away from my family. I would pretty much enjoy a day job(like doing a kayak activity) where I can go home and see my family at the end of the day.

I guess escaping denial comes with age...not that I'm very old of course; but you'll be surprised at my brain age..really old.

For now, enjoy this sunrise and reflect on family and work time management ya! Oh ya, don't be in denial. Accept, if not listen to what your heart is telling you.

The Prize Of Patience

2008-02-29T09:07:00.002+08:00

The result of waking at 6am and waiting at Punggol End until the sunrise is nice enough. It was either this, or wait another 4 years for the next leap year sunrise =)
Worth the effort, but I think I didn't do the sunrise enough justice..

First Rain of Chinese New Year

2008-02-25T22:01:00.003+08:00

You know, I've always wondered how to take pictures of rain. I've been telling mummy I'll take some pictures of rain but never really figured out how to. Well..here's my take. Enjoy!

Sentosa Spring Flower Fest 2008

2008-02-17T15:57:00.007+08:00

And lastly, a non-flower surprise. Enjoy =)

Changi Beach - CNY Escape

2008-02-09T16:39:00.000+08:00

My escape from all the CNY visitations to people whom I meet like once a year. Went to Changi beach and stayed till nightfall.

Punggol End - Sky and Rocks

2008-01-21T13:58:00.001+08:00

Punggol End - Solitude

2008-01-21T13:50:00.001+08:00

The fishing rod, the moon and I

My throne and I

The sand and I

The fishing net and I

New toy

2008-01-20T16:21:00.001+08:00

My thoughts now...

2008-01-14T23:44:00.000+08:00

Little do men perceive what solitude is, and how far it extendeth.
For a crowd is not company, and faces are but a gallery of pictures,
and talk but a tinkling cymbal, where there is no love.

- Francis Bacon

Not quite a photograph

2008-01-09T15:36:00.000+08:00

As the title suggest, this is NOT a photograph like I usually do, but I found this nice and thus, it's here.

Let me share how this came about. Today's lesson is something about Electro Magnectic Induction and Magnetic Field. Found this drawing thing on the net so I palyed around and viola! Master piece!
I haven't been spending much time with my camera and since I did this during class, I thought I'd post this.

p.s. Stress causes people to do weird and unexplainable things...

Shrooms

2007-12-28T14:45:00.000+08:00

Stories of Love

2007-12-19T22:19:00.000+08:00

These are 2 event I witnessed personally, and it has warmed my heart. It may not mean anything to you, but it was enough to put a smile on my face.

1) Motherly Love
How many times have we left the dinner table midway to do something, and come back finding extra ingredients in our plate? Especially if it is our favourite food? Well, my parents used to do it quite often, but..we don't really have time to eat together now. When I saw my Grandma do that for my Uncle last week, I was amused. Thinking back, I did feel kinda nostalgic and touched when I saw my Grandma do that. She even tried to hide the prawn under some noodles. Haha..I have a cool Grandma.

2) Sibling Love
For those who had elder brothers, remember how they used to try and make us stop crying by wiping our tears, giving us their share of sweets and trying to talk some sense into us? Well, I saw this on the bus earlier. Miss the times brothers will do anything for you. Now, they still do, but less often. =)

Moist Contact

2007-12-10T20:27:00.000+08:00

This is my second installment on rain, dedicated to xxxxx.

Instead of emo-ing like some people do when it rains, why not go out and enjoy it as if it were the sun?

Changing yourself is easier than changing the world!

Synergy -- NYP Adventure Race

2007-12-10T16:11:00.000+08:00

First, a big big thank you to my partner Syam/ Superman, and to the 2 advisors; Mummy Jean and Stan, thks for staying throughout and taking photos (thks for the sunblock too)! Thk u for making this possible. Also thks to all the supports and "jia you's" from the racers and the Sec sch friends I met in NYP.

This race took Superman and I ~5hrs, slightly less for 12-15km. But my body is aching a lot more than SAFRA AVventura (35km)! I went home with a sore right knee, woke up the next morning not feeling a thing in my left thigh and this morning I sort of couldnt feel it again. Now, i'm experiencing chest pains..heart is acting up again =(

This will explain why the above happened. The first checkpoint was super biased: it was soduku(nt a big deal you think!) but we had to run round the whole school just to find the numbers to fill in. It was like lost in unfamiliar grounds. I think we took 1hr for that station.

The second checkpoint was kindof killer. We ran from Yio Chu Kang to Lower Seletar for the kayak leg. It was like "WAHHHHH". But the kayak was fun. 2 powerboats with one paddle. So Superman used the paddle and I used my hands. Guess what..we overtook 3 teams! Then we came out and saw Stan and Jean =D Moral support! Then the horrible part came..the run back to NYP. Superman kena cramps..had to take electrolytes..last I checked, you still aren't very good. Hope you are better now Superman. On the way back, John and Sham overtook us (Jia You! You make the chance!)

Back to NYP, a racer's worst nightmare - bottleneck. River traverse and we had to let all the incoming ladies team go first. But well..we cleared it quite quickly(once in the water) and stupid me lost the balloon there. Passport got wet and soaked.

Next up, archery. 3 out of 5 shots to clear, but we still did all 5 anyway. Cleared quite quickly except for the Q while waiting. Again, Jean and Stan were there =)).

3rd last checkpoint, abseiling! An all so familiar experience! But then again, every experience is a new one. This time, I did it off a pamper pole with a new belayer; Superman. Trust is not an issue =P.

2nd last - Killer. Navigation. Almost lost my cool man. Bearings given were so off we had to sweep a really large area. Still cleared in the end, after a long long time. If I remember correctly, we did it like 4-5 times. Even Clyde and Meiqi who came later overtook us. Must work on my navigation skills! And measure distance properly for RP's race!

Last, blowing up a balloon (yes, the one I lost) till it's really big and write a sponsor's name on it. Superman did it (thks..have a phobia of bursting balloons). And then, we flew off to our last checkpoint, check in to end point. Jean, Stan, John, Sham, Clyde and Meiqi were waiting for us. We were finally done.

Next up, we whacked NYP through the feedback form and collected all the goodie bags and stuff. Now, to await the arrival of Kai and his friend.

Good race and now, time to rest. Thk u partner!

Temporary Responsibility

2007-12-08T18:33:00.001+08:00

My temporary responsibility while my cousin is away..

Taken with borrowed lens; nikkor 35mm prime lens, f-2

Impending doom?

2007-11-23T23:15:00.000+08:00

Roadside flowers

2007-11-23T23:12:00.000+08:00

Flight

2007-11-23T23:09:00.000+08:00

Jeff's B'day

2007-11-23T16:04:00.000+08:00

Pardon the bad quality..taken on camera phone.

Jeff and one of the mastermind's behind the "surprise"

Jeff looking delighted

Counting his wishes

Dunno what he is doing =P Haha...

Group Hug...courtesy of Viv. Thks!

In touch with my...erm...romantic side

2007-11-21T23:08:00.000+08:00

You are the only one in my life.
I want to be your shadow, forever by your side, never leaving your side.
I want to be your shadow, almost like you in all ways, but never stealing the limelight.
I want to be your shadow, always on the floor to take the hardship, so you can stand tall.
I want to be your shadow, so that we will not exist without each other.
I want to be your shadow, this picture tells it all.

Haha..the more I read it the more salah it sounds man. More mushy than romantic! (Hair stand!!!) This has only proven three points - 1)I am a hopeless romantic =D And 2)I can never write poems and 3)I will never fall in love!
Muahahahahahaha...wonder how I passed my literature

What I do in class (Part II)

2007-11-21T16:07:00.000+08:00

Another unattentive day in class...

This is "Robot"! "Robot" has just come to life during 3rd meeting.

It is now 6P. "Robot" is going to blast the sleeping ****** in my class now!
Muahahahahahahahahahahahah!!!!!

LIVE ONE DAY AT A TIME

2007-11-21T15:24:00.000+08:00

Found something inspirational..Enjoy!

There are two days in every week that we should not worry about. Two days that should be kept free from fear and apprehension.

One is YESTERDAY, with its mistakes and cares, its faults and blunders, its aches and pains. Yesterday has passed, forever beyond our control. All the money in the world cannot bring back yesterday. We cannot undo a single act we performed nor can we erase a single word we've said. Yesterday is gone!

The other day we shouldn't worry about is TOMORROW with its impossible adversaries, its burden, its hopeful promise and poor performance. Tomorrow is beyond our control. Tomorrow's sun will rise either in splendor or behind a bank of clouds - but it will rise. And until it does, we have no stake in tomorrow, for it is yet unborn.

This leaves only one day - TODAY. Any person can fight the battles of just one day. It is only when we add the burdens of yesterday and tomorrow that we break down. It is not the experience of today that drives people mad, it is the remorse for something that happened yesterday, and the dread of what tomorrow may bring. Let us therefore, LIVE ONE DAY AT A TIME.

Before I slept

2007-11-20T22:38:00.000+08:00

What I Do in class

2007-11-14T15:59:00.001+08:00

I horse around with a "hot chick"! Whahahahahaha..dat's wat I do in class =P

2nd try at stars

2007-11-13T22:02:00.000+08:00

This is my second try shooting stars. Seems it turned out a lot better than the previous shoot. Enjoy!

Pick-up lines (Part II)

2007-11-13T17:28:00.000+08:00

These are all new pick-up lines courtesy of Mr. Cold (as per normal) and some from my reading. Hmmm..reading eh ;)

1) Can i have your picture, so I can show Santa what I want for Christmas! =P

2) I hope you know CPR because you take my breath away!

3) Is there an airport near-by or is that my heart taking off?

4) If I could rearrange the alphabet, I'd put U and I together. (corny and old sch..best stuff on earth)