Taiwan 2010 Part 2

17th March:

Twisted and turned our way through the mountainous roads to Kenting. Kenting is made famous for being a filming site for the film, Cape no. 7.

Boy, was it frightening! The roads are quite narrow and it's all thanks to the skillful navigation by the young driver. If you looked down, it's a straight drop to the treacherous waters of Taiwan Strait.

The daunting and long journey was enough to turn to upset my delicate stomach. There was nothing much to do on the bus, except sleep and watch the tapes the tour guide played. I did both, though I spent more time sleeping. The 21 of us were loosely distributed in the 40 seater bus. I got to have 2 seats for myself.

Finally, we reached Maobitou. It literally means "Cat's nose" in Chinese. If you look at the pictures I had taken, I don't think it looks like a cat at all. It is this huge rock facing the Taiwan Strait.

The place was once again full of tourists, mostly those mainlanders from China. It was quite windy up there as we watched the waves licked the rocks.

Made our way to Eluanbi Lighthouse, the only armed lighthouse in Taiwan.

In the evening, we had dinner in a restaurant located near the merciless and magnificent Pacific Ocean. It's too bad that the camera hasn't managed to capture exactly what I saw that day. The photos just don't do the view justice. The sun had set and the waters met the skies in a distinct line. The beach is not filled with pristine white sand but coarse blackish sand. Imagine, the next side of the Pacific Ocean would be America.

A litter of puppies played nearby. They were so cute! Squeal! I could have cuddle them, if I cuddle animals. They loved to play with shoelaces. I love their antics as they tried to climb up the stairs and dug a hole.

Tonight, we stayed at Luminous Hot Spring Resort and Spa located in a secluded spot of a mountain. The hotel is grand with even grander rooms. Or maybe it's due to the fact that I stayed in the honeymoon suite with my mother.

Wow! You can put on a show with its full transparent glass bathroom. The bathroom has a shower area, the basin area and a private stone tub which hot spring water flows as you turned the tap.

The bed, complete with white canopies, in right in front of the transparent bathroom. Of course, heavy curtains can be drawn. All in all, the best hotel we have stayed at.

18th March:

It's just too wasteful to leave the hotel so early in the morning. After all those hours to get there, we just have to say bid goodbye. Alas, we had a train to catch at 8 am plus.

The buffet breakfast was the finest among all the hotels.

Took a 3 hours train ride to Hualien. Originally, the train ride should be shorter and able to offer us a look at the Pacific Ocean. But, the that train got booked up.

Met the coach driver at the station and went to Taroko Gorge. More mountainous roads. However, the natural view that greeted us was worth it. Nature in its finest is there. Those marble slabs, washed and smoothed by the rushing water are in its galore.

We had to wear safety helmets as we walked under cliffs due to unstable rocks caused by earthquakes. There are places warded off and rocks debris litter those areas. We were told to stay near the sides.

Took many pictures of the wondrous features that nature has to offer. The place is off limits for marble harvesting. It's a nature reserve of sorts and belongs to the government.

Taiwan is going through a dry period, thus, the streams are almost dried. You can say that that they have a love-hate relationship with hurricanes. They can't live without it yet it is damaging.

Stayed the night at Charming City Hotel.

19th March:

First, we went to Ilan National Centre for Traditional Arts. It's a huge place where the shops are built like the shophouses of the past. These shops promote and sell traditional and not so traditional crafts, toys and food. We didn't spent much time there.


We went to Chiufen next. It's once again located up on the mountains. It's an alley with lots of small shops selling Taiwanese cuisines and crafts. Since it's an alley, with steep staircases and narrow paths, it doesn't help that the place was crowded with tourists and locals alike. I even spotted Caucasians which was quite the rare sight in Taiwan. Or perhaps they just hand around the Taipei region.


Taiwan's first cinema can be found there and a teahouse is made famous by a film.


At night, we check in our last hotel for this trip, Hotel New Continental Taipei. Our room was quite small, with no bathtub, but the room itself is beautiful in the modern way. My hopes of getting a nice soak before leaving was dashed.


We went to Shilin Night Market and bid farewell to the coach driver as he won't be ferrying us to the airport the next day. It's quite sad actually.


The family didn't linger on at the night market. We ate there and then took a cab to Taipei 101. It was a good plan, no? I have been wanting to go there to shop from the day it was decided that we were going for this trip. I even went online to check out the brands.


It's a good thing we had some time this night, because I'm seriously angry that we will only have 45 minutes to visit Taipei 101 the following morning due to time constraints. The shops will only be open around 11am and we had to leave Taipei for Taoyuan International Airport around 1pm.
Anyway, the taxi fare was cheap, approximately $200 plus, equivalent to S$8 plus. Besides, the driver allowed the five of us to squeeze into his cab.


Wow, Taipei 101 is more awesome than I thought. I went directly to Esprit, and bought a blouse. Actually, the designs are mostly the same as those sold in Singapore. The prices are not exactly cheaper as well.


Went to Tommy Hilfiger next. We saw this other family in our tour group who apparently had the same idea as us. My mother and I bought their polo shirts. I coveted some designs but they are all too expensive.


We just walk around level 1 and basement 1 because level 2 to 5 are reserved for branded goods. Level 6 is a exclusive area for members who can shop and dine all they want. From level 5, you can take the fastest elevator in the world and shoot your way up to the 99 storey of the building. Obviously, you have to pay for the view.


Had supper in the huge food court in the basement. They sell everything, well, not everything. For one, I want to try out Mister Donuts, but they don't have it there. I ordered McDonalds and it isn't as nice compared to what we have in Singapore.


I went to the Jasons supermarket after seeing it on the Travel and Living channel on the first day. It's akin to what we have in those shopping centres in Orchard area. Gourmet ingredients for foodies. Huge, red apples, Taiwan strawberries, different types of cheeses, etc.


Too bad the strawberries are expensive, or I would have bought them after hearing about it from the tour guide.

Took another cab back to our hotel.

20th March:


No morning call today! We have our time free until 10.45am where we have to check out. As it is, we woke at 6am and had breakfast before going back to our rooms to laze about and do last minute packing.


Went to Taipei 101 as a group and we had 45 minutes. I remembered that there is this shop, Roots, that caught my attention last night. Went there and bought a shirt. I wanted one of those jackets so badly. It's really gorgeous. My mother love their bags but they cost a whooping s$400 plus.


I console myself with the thought that Singapore will have this brand and I can buy what I want when I get back. Who would have know it that the brand doesn't exist in Singapore?! I thought I saw this brand before. Argh! I really like their line of clothes. Just too bad...


Had our lunch at this super quirky restaurant called Five Cent Driftwood Restaurant. Have a look at the photos and you'll know what I meant. The tour guide told us that people who went there will surely whipped out their cameras and start flashing away.


Everything is quirky and unique, from the toilets to the tables to the ceilings to the chairs. The ceilings are done in wavy patterns. We had to climb 4 storeys before having our lunch.


Finally, it's the end of our tour. Reached the airport and said goodbye to the tour guide who have been great.


The flight back got delayed again! What's wrong with China Airlines, seriously? Reached Changi Airport Terminal 1 around 9 plus.


Home sweet home.

Taiwan 2010 Part 1

Well, I'm back. Back to work as well. Time for a recap.

13th March:

So, we woke up early in the morning and made our way down to Changi Airport. The grandparents were there too. I'm not going to go into too much details here. Just that this day was a very unfortunate day and that "suayness" can come in many forms. Simply put, this day was 'Bloody Brilliant'.

First, the computer system for China Airlines went down in Changi Airport. They had to check each passenger in by hand. Then, the computer system got working again, so the handwritten stuff was nil. Check-in again.

Little did we know that the tour group will missed the flight due to overbooking. Yes, I know that overbooking among airlines is a norm, it's the "surest" way to cut down possible losses. But, this day, they didn't foresee that due to the large number of students taking the flight to return home, the chances of a vacant seat was close to none. That, was China Airlines' fault.

We missed our flight despite the initial thought that the flight will wait since it was already delayed because of the slow check-in. And the tour group was the only one left behind. Chan Brothers was at fault too. They didn't send enough man-power to help our group. Other tour agencies had 2-3 staff at hand to take roll-call and check-in procedure. Us? It's just one person. I understand that not everything was his fault, he's only a man, how can he run both sides?

The manager of China Airlines compensated each of us S$150 each and we were to take Garuda Airlines to Jakarta, Indonesia before transiting to China Airlines. The flight from Singapore to Jakarta was terrible. Our new China Airlines flight was delayed, again. Besides, instead of the initial 4 hours journey to Taiwan, it now went to 5 hours.

Finally, we touched in Taoyuan International Airport, hours behind our original schedule. We could have reached in the afternoon, but no, because of so many contributing factors, we had to reach there at night.

Then, when things couldn't get any worse, my family luggage weren't there. The other tour group members safely claimed their luggage, but not us. We found out that they went to KL. How brilliant is that? It's like we're on the roll, except that it's bad luck. Actually, my father already said beforehand that somebody luggage will get lost in the mess.

For the first time, we can claim insurance. And for the first time, we have to nothing except the clothes on our back and hand-carried bags.

The tour guide was kind enough to make us a stop at a local mart to get our necessities. The hotel we checked into is pretty nice. Four Points by Sheraton. We were treated to this gigantic plate of fried rice each after all that hours spent a-wasting on air and ground.

Thankfully, I wore a tank-top inside my dress-shirt. I could, at least, wear my jacket with my tank top for sleeping.

14th March:

A brand new day! We made our first stop at the National Palace Museum. It houses the very famous Jadeite Cabbage from the Qing Dynasty among other ancient Chinese relics and treasures.

The place was chock-full of people, mostly tourists, I think. We aren't allow to take photographs inside the museum and have to wear this earpiece when the tour guide converse with us. The signal isn't very good and it keep picking up conversations in Japanese and English that the other tour guides were speaking.

As the place was crowded, we visited only a few exhibitions. It is quite interesting though, although I have the feeling of information overload. I love history, except the dates and what not part.

My brothers bought a lot of pseudo cabbages as souvenirs.

After lunch, we went to Ximenting which is this busy street with all sorts of street food and clothes targeted at the young and trendy. It is something like Bugis Street in Singapore. Since it was a Sunday, naturally, the place was crowded with the younger generation.

I bought a shirt quite unwilling, because I had to change. The luggage had not arrived. Besides, it's not like it's a habit of mine to wear a new shirt not washed yet.

We tried the white bittergourd juice mixed with lemon. It's very refreshing indeed. I just love the taste of bittergourd despite the fact that I don't eat bittergourd at all. I wanted to buy one of those shiny white bittergourd back.

The tour guide took us to take the metro and then the bullet train down Taichung where we will be visiting Fengjia Night Market. We had mini steamboat for dinner.

We did not stay long at Fengjia Night Market. It's crowded, smelly and generally, not my cup of tea. I realised that for the Taiwanese, motorcycles must be quite affordable. There are road lanes dedicated to motorcyclists and the road sides have parking lots of motorcycles. It seems as though majority of the young generation can afford a motorcycle.

We went to this Nike store and I bought a shirt there.

Stayed the night at DeBao Hotel. Tonight, we'll be getting our luggage back. Hooray! Normally, it will take more than 2 days to reach, but my father asked for the express delivery which meant that we will have to pay US$50 for it.

15th March:

Bright and early morning. Left the hotel for Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village. It was a long journey. Past by many mountains.

Taiwan officially has 9 tribes, but they spilt it to 14 as of now. It is said that a fifteenth one is coming. So, the Culture Village we went to preserve the culture Taiwan's 9 hill-tribes. These include the houses, living styles, clothing and equipment, etc.

It is very informative and I enjoyed myself. The Village also boost a very lovely and grand European-styled garden in which the drama series, The Little Princess, filmed at. Furthermore, there is a theme park inside this Village too.

At first, we rode the cable car up to the top of the mountain with the tour guide which we'll then make our way down on foot and see the different things by ourselves.

The weather was quite cooling there. We stayed till 4pm before going to Wenwu Temple. It overlooks Sun Moon Lake and the water was lit up with the setting sun beams. It is a pretty sight.

We stayed the night at Miracolo View Hotel. Wonder how the hotel got its name? I reckon it is because the rooms overlook the magnificent Sun Moon Lake. My room is quite luxurious. Not only is the bathroom beautifully and wonderfully equipped, there is also a window bench made with clear glass and wood. It's Japanese-styled.

16th March:

Woke up very early to take pictures of the rising sun and the waters of Sun Moon Lake. Indeed, it's a sight to be reckoned. It is misty in the morning. It seems as though the waters and the sky are one.

Left for Sitou National Forest Recreational Area. It is an area with trails and accommodations. It is a one of the many preserved forested area in Taiwan. Tall trees and blooming flowers are in abundance here given the cooling weather. Occasionally, thick mist will rolled across the skies like waves. Took lots and lots of photographs here.

Went to the University Pond where university students of the past used to hang out at. There is a bamboo bridge across the pond and all seems whimsical.

Next stop was NanYuan Resort Farm where we will stay the night. Today is one of our more relaxed schedule.

The rooms in the farm is built in the European-style. Everything is made of wood and each room area is really big. The houses are built on water and the window overlook the pond. The beds are these Japanese-made healthy beds that are supposed to improve blood circulation and work out your kinks.

There are lots of activities on the farm, even water golf. There is a tiny plot of land in the middle of the pond and one is supposed to hit the ball there. Of course, if you missed, the ball fall into the water. It is pretty difficult to achieve that.

We were taken on a tour around the farm when we first arrived. We had a cruise around a huge pond and got introduced to the different kinds of plants in the farm. Flowers are extremely luscious here.

Good huh? B***** Brillant, that is.

Sighs.. Bad business. Missed flight. Delayed Flight. Lost baggage. Please, let the bad luck stop now.

5.58am now. Woke up at 5.15am to bathe. Taxi's coming at 7.00am.

Results for Sem 2.2

*Set off Fireworks*

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*Punch fist in the air*

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Edited at 2.10pm: CGPA of 3.76! Do you think I will have a shot at the Director's Honours List this time round?

OMG! I'm so, so happy right now!!

Nearly had a heart attack when the SMS came in just after 11am. This is what I've been waiting for for nearly a month. All those stress, all those emotions, I can't believe I'm saying this, but, it's all worth it when I lay my eyes on the grades.

2 distinctions! An all new record for me! Travel and Leisure and Managing SME deserve the honours. All the other subjects are As. As I said before, As really are addictive.

Club and Resort - A. Wow, I can't believe it! I thought the second test was pretty difficult. Guess they moderated it.

Communication Skills 2 - A. Not quite surprising. Perhaps only that I must have did well for my interview.

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Travel & Leisure - Z. Another Wow. I thought that my test was kind of screwed as I left some blanks. The group project is a major plus factor.

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Managing SME - Z. No surprise here. I wanted a distinction for this subject ever since Day 1. Good teacher equals good grade.

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Franchising Business - A. Ahh well, I must be content. If not for that disastrous day, perhaps, just maybe, I can get a distinction? Glad that the teacher liked our work so much.

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World Issues - A. Big surprise here! I thought World Issues is a pretty boring yet difficult subject. The contributing factor must be the group project.

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All in all, to sum up this semester grades is "Big surprises. Expectations reached".

Thank you, thank you, in so many thousand languages! To all the lecturers, to my group members, to myself, of course, to those who supported me.

Now, I must wait for the GPA. *Rub hands in glee* It's going to be goooood.

Leaving on a Jet Plane

All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go... (sort of)

...The taxi's waiting, he's blowing his horn...

...Cause I'm leaving on a jet plane...

Lyrics borrowed from John Denver's Leaving On a Jet Plane.

That's right, I'm leaving for Taiwan tomorrow morning. I'll be back on the following Saturday. Things will have to wait till then. Yay! No work for a week, how cool is that?

Just hoping that the flight to and fro will be smooth and safe and that I'll have fun. Not forgetting, shopping!

Results out today! Heard a rumour that results via sms will be out around 11 plus. Can't wait!

Eclipse First Teaser Trailer

http://www.twilightlexicon.com/2010/03/11/at-last-the-eclipse-trailer/

Eeeeeeeeppppppp! OK, fangirl moment over. Know that I don't type these things often. This entry will commemorate the release of Eclipse's first teaser trailer.

Eclipse's first trailer is out today in the States! I am extremely hyped-up over it. And it's looking good for a first trailer. Because, after this, there will most likely be another teaser trailer and the full trailer, like most movies.

Not bad, not bad at all. *Happy sigh* This is enough to sate my thirst for the time being.

It has an haunting feel in its accompanying music and I just love the dark clouds in this trailer. It shows something foreboding. The colours here are very lovely indeed, without that ugly blue tint in Twilight the movie and it's not that "orange-y" in New Moon.

The few dialogue are chosen nicely to complement. Although, I have to say some of these dialogue are whispered out instead of saying. Without subtitles, surely I'll be at a loss. This 1 and a half minute of trailer truly showcase David Slade's eye for details and beauty. He is, to quote, "a cinematographic genius".

I love those scenery shots actually, unlike some others. It sets the feel and tone nicely of what they want to portray. Anyway, this is just the first teaser trailer.

One thing bad about it was the fact that Rachelle (original Victoria) left the set and BDH is the new Victoria. Given that she does not get much screen time anyway, this issue is alright to me. Although, I must say that I was upset, like many other fans, when the news came out. I hate changes.

With most things looking good, Eclipse will be awesome, with fingers crossed. David Slade has to do the book justice because it seems like not only is it a favourite of mine, it's a favourite of many other fans as well. And why shouldn't it be? Eclipse has the right amount of humour, love, action. It is an aftermath and road to something. It just sits well with me.

Can't wait for the movie in June, perhaps? Seriously, I have no idea when it will be released in Singapore.

Adieu, for now.

Eclipse Movie Trailer Sneak

http://www.twilightlexicon.com/2010/03/10/10-sec-eclipse-preview-now-on-line/

Eeeekkk! This just came out in the States! I am so glad I managed to catch it and rushed out this entry to commemorate!

It may only be a 10 second preview trailer of Eclipse, but fans are quite excited over it. Afterall, it's been months since we get any substantial news about the movie franchise. Tomorrow, we will be treated to the first showing of the first trailer of Eclipse movie. David Slade had better give the book justice.

Naturally, I am so excited over it. I must have watched it a few times since it came online a few minutes ago. I just have to catch the setting and 2 liner dialogue. *Swoon* I love the way Taylor said his line "until your heart stops beating..."

Ahhh! Within minutes, in the world of Twitter, Eclipse becomes a trending topic worldwide. This is the power of internet.

Can hardly wait for tomorrow's trailer! At first, I thought I was sort of over Twilight. However, I managed to surprise myself with my enthusiasm and excitement. Well, I am glad, I am not giving up until I have the full series in my hands.

Watching this trailer just reminded me that it's high time to work on my Eclipse movie countdown clock. I know, I know, I keep dragging it. But, once I return from my trip, I will start to work on the clock. I have managed to get hold of some pretty nice eclipse pictures.

I am thinking of something simple yet lovely. Something with the tagline "Can't fight with an Eclipse". Or maybe a poetry line.

Tomorrow, here I come! And of course, a date with my cousin and brothers to watch Eclipse in June!

Feeling Good

Or more specifically, good gut feel. I have this good feeling about my results for this semester. I slaved away just for this day of "glory".

Gahhh, I can't wait for tomorrow or Friday to roll in! There is a rumour going around saying that tomorrow will be the day where grades via SMS will be sent out. If that is so, then, my wait will be shorten by a day.

If not, on Friday, the website will predictably crash again due to the high influx of students logging in at the same time to check their results. It doesn't matter if I log in on the dot, because apparently, there will always be people faster than me. Furthermore, those staying nearer to school will have easier access than me who stayed so far away.

Anyway, I will be really pleased if I can get my aim of at least 4 As (with a Z), and 2 B+. I had a secret fixation of getting all As in one go. This is probably my only chance to do this. And I can get to show those who have a seed of doubt.

So very excited! This will be the perfect incentive for me to go shopping during my trip to Taiwan on Saturday. Yay or nay? All will be revealed either tomorrow or Friday.

I'm not going to go all complacent, obviously. I have strict goals in my mind. This is but a stepping stone. However, I think I more than earn it to celebrate. Anywho, I'm not going to think too much into it, although, truth be told, I have been thinking for at least a month now!

Finger crossed!

Alice in Wonderland movie review

Went for the showing of Alice in Wonderland 3D from Tim Burton at Jurong Point's Golden Village.
It was sort of a last minute decision. We were asked by my cousin whose family were going for the movie at 1.30pm. In the end, the three of us went alone via MRT since the parents had to go for the travel briefing by Chan Brothers.
We were seating quite near to the screen. Put on the 3D glasses when the trailers started and realised that the glasses were flickering and just plain weird by showing an array of colours when viewed. And there were no 3D effects. I was a bit sceptical then but chose to ignore it. I had enough after a while and asked for my cousin's pair to try on.
Hers were so clear! I decided to change mine before the movie started. The person told me the glasses were probably out of battery. Ahh, this second pair were much better. All the better to enjoy the movie with.
The movie is superb! I love the visual effects and the whimsical feel to it. It's truly a Tim Burton's film, what with his special touch and perspective. Just the right amount of humour that is entirely Tim Burton's.

Although, the film does not focus specifically on Alice's adventures from the first book we all knew, it was still awesome. Tim Burton said it was not a sequel, and was an adaptation from the Alice in Wonderland and Through the Looking Glass books.
The veteran actors and actresses were great in their roles. But, like many others, I feel that Helena Bonham Carter's portrayal of the Red Queen is deliciously evil and funny. Johnny Depp's Mad Hatter deserves a recognition too. Other notable actors/actresses are Anne Hathaway (White Queen), Alan Rickman (who lends his voice to the Caterpillar), etc.
The movie is even better in 3D, in my humble opinion. I know, more and more films are coming with 3D to tempt the viewers and increase the size of their wallets. It's more expensive for the viewers too. Sighs, it's not possible for me to keep going for 3D movies.
I would love to see the movie again, on DVD. Except it will be without the 3D glasses. Not that I love those glasses. They are heavy and because I'm wearing my own glasses, it can't seat comfortably. Throughout the whole movie, I had to use my hands to keep the 3D glasses on. It will be totally great if the 3D glasses evolute into a lighter, better adjusted glasses which will be well-suited for all viewers.
Well, that concludes the Alice in Wonderland 2010 review.

Celebrations

On Sunday, we celebrated grandmother's birthday as well as the end of Lunar New Year with a feast at Spring Court Restaurant in China Town.

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It was great fun! We had a private room all to ourselves, all the way up on the 4th floor. The restaurant is in the old housing concept; tall but narrow. But, surprisingly, it was all quite grand. I love the toilets especially. It's special, what with it situated outside of the building retaining the old world charm and yet very modern.

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Shared a bouquet of flowers with my brothers which we bought for grandmother. The bouquet had 3 red roses and wild flowers to complement. Originally, I wanted to go with the sunflowers as it seemed much casual.

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Surprised my grandmother with the appearance of my cousins and their spouses. My father invited them along but apparently, didn't tell grandmother.

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So, 19 of us were spilt into 2 tables, adults on one table and the teenagers on another. However, because there wasn't enough seats for the adults, my mother and auntie sat at our table. Had one of those set dinners since it was still, technically, the Lunar New Year.

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There is Karaoke in the room too. Naturally, we were all quite shy and didn't sing much. Although, we listened to lots of songs. After much cajoling, some of them picked up the mike and sang.

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Had ice-cream cake which was bought by my auntie. It was a huge cake, as seen from the picture above. And we took our family tradition picture; mirror picture.

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My uncle ushered us all up to the highest level to take a family photo. We shifted tables and chairs as that place is a banquet room too. Wow, this is the first place the whole family, and I mean whole, took pictures together.

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Soon, it's time to get going as the time (3pm) was up and the staff were to have their rest.

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Thus, Lunar New Year 2010 came to a close.

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21st Winter Games

Woah! I just love the Winter Olympics at Vancouver! Yeah!

Will update again later~

Of Travel & Memories

Is it stupid of me to keep on pining for what was long past?

It is not a place, much less a person. It is the experience I had that I long for. I can't help myself, pining for that wonderful experience I had all those years ago in Hokkaido, Japan with the rest of the family members.

It was something special, something true to the heart. As my brother puts it "Old times, old times".

I keep on harping about going back to Hokkaido, I think it's more of searching for that experience rather than visiting the places. Of course, I do love the country. But, to me, I want the intangibles over the tangibles. I want back the services, the good experiences, the times we shared and loved.

I am feeling very melancholy and reminiscing these past days.

I don't know what's wrong with me. To keep on searching for something intangible.

So, in about two weeks times, I'll be leaving for Taiwan, if everything turns out well.

I went to the NATAS Fair 2010 at Singapore Expo on Friday afternoon with my father. My father thought he was being smart to visit the booths on the first day and on an afternoon to boot. Well, there place was swarmed with like-minded people.

Luckily, there was carpark lots left. Ate at Burger King before going inside. Needless to say, the queue for the entrance tickets was so very long. But the queue moved quite fast. It cost $4 per person to go in.

Once inside, the crowds seem less congregated because the fair spanned from Hall 4 to 5. Seemingly, all the outbound tour operators were there. Ha, now is the time for me to dish out all those terms I have learnt during my tourism studies.

I was so excited to collect those brochures and catalog showing each country's best. I love reading up on what each country have to offer and more.

There were so many people giving out pamphlets and stuff. We went to Chan Brothers and another tour operator to compare the packaged tour on Taiwan. At last, we went with Chan Brothers, partly because of its reputation.

Wow, the Chan Brothers booth look to be the biggest yet, what with so many staff on hand and all of them occupied at any given moment. Signed on a deal; 8 days Taiwan All Rounder, after the one my father wanted was replaced with this instead.

I want to fly Singapore Airlines, but, alas, there was only a flight on Friday afternoon. Therefore, we had no choice but to make do with China Airlines. I know, me, (un)willingly to go with China Airlines. I guessed I resigned myself to saving money for my coveted trip, since one SQ ticket will cost a hundred plus more for each person. Another reason was due to it being a short journey, just 4 hours. I can endure that, I hope.

Naturally, I was going to research more on China Airlines when I reached home. I found out that it has a higher accident rate than normal airline average in the world. Oh gods, I shouldn't have done this. Now, it makes me quiver just to think of it. Urgh, I'm going to be sick.

This is the time to know more about the tour operator job. After learning about it so much, it brings a new perspective to see it at work. Those details, itineraries, advertising gimmicks, asterisks at play, etc. Pheesh, if they make it even more "cheap and wonderful", I wouldn't have fall for that. I rather take reasonable over gullible any other day.

Finally, everything was done. We went on to get our "free" 20 inches luggage bag from DBS bank for spending $2,500. Since we have some time left, we visited other booths promoting their countries. That's when I started my spree. Of collecting brochures.

Europe, Japan, Australia, Korea, Taiwan, but no USA. I now have this huge and heavy stack of booklets which I have no where to keep.

And then my father drove me back, too bad I had work later in the day and my father had to go back to his office. If not, we can spend more time there.

Saw the news yesterday, there was at least 8,000 visitors there by the first day. Is that awesome or what?

I just want everything to be alright. C'mon, millions of people fly in and out around the world. If I am afraid, I should jolly well stay in Singapore for the rest of my otherwise miserable life. I want to travel, that is a dream and hope.

Reason to work

Ahh crap!

More concrete reason why I should have work 4 days a week. Which is exactly what I am doing now.

For the fun of it, I checked out the price rates for a SQ flight to Orlando, Florida. To my horror, a round trip ticket would cost me S$4.8K, minimum. Holy crow! Where am I going to so much money? And it's just air tickets! What about shopping, theme park access, food and hotels?

Then, I went over to check out Chan Brothers travel packages. I found one that is pretty awesome. It starts from S$4.8k and it's a 13 day itinerary spanning from New York/New Jersey to Washington to Orlando. I figured, from Orlando, I can just stay on for another few days before leaving for Singapore by myself.

It's true that I don't know what flight this package consist of, there is a high chance that it is not Singapore Airlines.

Anyway, I just want to have a gauge of how things are. Obviously, I'm not giving up this goal. Because if I did, I wonder how will I be? To be living life without a goal is the worst thing that could happen. How I survive the rest of the semester depends very much on my goals when it is time to go.

With this goal, suddenly, I feel like I have a purpose to do well in my studies, to endure my work. I really do not want to forsake it because of some minor matter.

The date is changable, as long as I have a companion. But, I am not willing to wait for another year. Oh no. I have to make the trip before the second half of DH premiers.

Worst to come would be to join a tour, and that is actually a better solution. It is cheaper, I can visit attractions I normally wouldn't go by myself and I don't have to worry about accommodations/on the road expenses.

Actually, the main reason for checking out the flights and travel packages is because now that my mother wouldn't be going for a eye surgery this March, it means that we may have a chance to go overseas. Besides, she wants to go Taiwan. However, the real problem is that how will we find tours that are not fully booked. Free and easy is out since Osaka and Taiwan flights on SQ are not available during that March holidays.

On a more personal note, I had already signed myself up for duties for 4 days per week. And this is because there is shortage of staff. So, if I were to go overseas...

Ha, but it is wishful thinking if they think I will stay on while the rest of the family enjoy themselves. Of course, I would tell them early if only the date is fixed. Damnation.

Sometimes, I wish I would stop being so responsible to the point of nauseating. I feel irk at myself too. When it is clearly not MY problem, why should I have worry? Huh? That I really don't understand. And when will I stop viewing things out of proportion? I seem to escalate things and get so worried and strung-up over them. Then, I lose sleep and my mind buzzing, filled with all these nonsense.

I need to get those out of my system. Really. Period.

Fresh Reads

Fresh catches from the bookstore!

My eyes nearly bulged out when I saw the total amount. Goodness, while I brought enough money, the price really caught me by surprise. But, I'm pleased for once, so that should mean something.

I went to Kinokuniya at Ngee Ann City today after lunch. It was a date with myself. What? I think it's a good idea to go out alone, particularly when I have clear goals in mind. Besides, the things I love and do are somewhat "off" from what others like.

I can't imagine why there were so many people on the MRT, on an weekday afternoon to boot. Anywho, no seats for moi. But, of that, I already know. Nowadays, it is so difficult to get a seat on the MRT, it doesn't help that seats are taken off to make way for more capacity rate. Afterall, when people are standing instead of seating, the space one occupies is smaller.

I already did my research on the books I want and they are available at Kinokuniya. I went straight to Ngee Ann City via the walkway from Ion Orchard.

As usual, there are tourists around, holding maps and taking pictures Singaporeans normally won't take. Actually, I like seeing visitors acting all tourist-y. It gives me a fresh perspective and it is very refreshing to look through their eyes at the beauties of Singapore.

As a Singaporean, I do appreciate what Singapore has to offer. However, sometimes, even I need reminders to remain grateful and appreciative.

Of course, this is vice versa. I'm guilty of going to other countries and taking pictures of buildings and the scenery too. It must have seem so strange, to the citizens, these buildings are nothing to wonder at, they are there, they exist without any particular reason. But to tourists, they are a fresh look, something new from our country.

I ramble too much and enough philosophy for the day.

All in all, I bought 5 books. 3 of which are mine, something which I coveted. Sense and Sensibility and Sea Monsters by Ben. H Winters, Thanks for the memories and The Book of Tomorrow by Cecelia Ahern. For my brother, Percy Jackson and The lightning Thief and The Last Olympian by Rick Riordan.

This is the largest collection of books I have bought since forever. Usually, I just buy one or two at one go.

I wanted to go to Paragon next because I want to buy the mini OPI nail polish set at Metro. It is something I wanted since last Christmas. The price is atrocious but I thought "just this once". Who would have know that the weather was a party pooper and rained heavily when I reached Lucky Plaza.

Sighs. I'm not a frequent goer to Orchard Road, much less to the other shopping centres other than Wheelock Place and Ngee Ann City. I really don't know if there is any underground path leading to Paragon. Dejected, I went back to Ngee Ann City and leave for home.

It had been a great day, I must say. I got what I wanted, spent a huge sum on money on that too.

CNY Part 2

15th February 2010:

Hooray! Today was the day we were to watch Percy Jackson and The Lighting Thief in the evening. I booked the seats about 3 days ago. And when I checked it today, the whole theatre was already 4/5th full.

I can hardly wait for the movie showing, because I had waited for it for a very long time. Probably since I was in Sec 3 when I first read the book.
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In the morning, we went to my maternal big aunt’s house to visit before proceeding to my paternal great-uncle’s (grandfather’s brother) house. The family usually go there on the first day but this year, we wanted a change and it is so much more fun if we meet up with my uncle and auntie’s families.
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In truth, we had so much fun there. The teenagers and the adults. So much of loud talking and laughing! So many goodies to enjoy! Well, it’s a good thing I am able to understand dialect so I know what they are talking about.
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After that, the family went to my maternal second aunt’s house at Ang Mo Kio. Stayed for a while and we went to bathe before going to Marina Square.
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Woohoo! We were lucky enough to find a carpark lot since the carpark was full of cars looking for spaces.
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Ate at Long John Silver and my father went to collect the pre-booked tickets. After reserving seats for a few times, I can’t stand having to queue for tickets for the seats which I am not pleased about. Guess with the ease of reserving your favourite and best seats online, I have pampered myself. Anyway, it’s not like it is not a good deal. I just have to pay $1 extra for one transaction. So, the more seats I booked, the less that dollar is proportioned.

13 tickets again! When I have the picture, I will put it up.
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I booked 2 rows on the right side. One for the adults and one for the teenagers. This time, we were not late for the trailers.
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I enjoyed the movie very, very much. Perhaps, it was due to I went in with no expectations on my part. I mean, it had been a long time since I read the book and I do not complete the series. So, practically, I can’t compare it page by page.
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I think I know what other fans meant when they say that to enjoy a movie adaptation, one have to go in with low or no expectations and be open-minded. Obviously, it is easier said than done.
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If that book is beloved, normal fans can hardly stand it when it got plummeted and made into something without containing the essence of the book.
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Kudos to Chris Columbus! Is it an irony that he too directed Harry Potter SS and CoS? I don’t like how people compared these 2 book series. Sure, there are some similarities. However, to quote Chris Columbus, fantasy books often have similarities. I think as long as authors are not outright copying other authors’ work, it is alright.
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Percy Jackson is about Greek myths and gods in the 21st century. I distinctly remembered that I felt that it was a breath of fresh air reading about the books because it was just so original. Zeus and the other gods and goddesses holding their counsel in the Empire State building? Wow, that is so cool!
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Also, it must have kick-start my passion and interest for Greek Mythology. I went online and searched more on the wide range of Greek Myths and stories of gods and goddesses. Or was it the other way round? I had an interest in myths and tales before Sec 3 and finding Percy Jackson by Rick Riordan was something special.
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Either way, I did not complete the series because it was a long wait for me and I moved on to other genres. However, after watching this movie, my interest perks again. This time, I will complete the series. It still remain to be seen if I will buy the books or to borrow it.
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Meanwhile, moving on to the actors and the cinematography of the film.
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Logan Lerman who played Percy Jackson is set to be the rising star to come. He portrayed the character very well indeed. It doesn’t help that he is good looking as well. The adult secondary cast were all chosen well, a trait that Chris Columbus takes with him from his HP days.
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The CGI and special effects were brilliant! The backgrounds were very well-done!
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Overall, I love the movie despite the understanding that it differs quite a lot from the book. As I said, I went in there with no expectations and I enjoyed it. It wasn’t really my top favourite book series so I can accept some changes.
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I can’t wait for the sequel which I heard is due in 2012.
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16th January 2010:
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The last day of the Lunar New Year holidays before everything goes back to normal. I'll miss these days.
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In the morning, my brothers had to do their school work and in the afternoon, we joined my cousin’s family and the grandparents at Wheelock Place’s Sakae Sushi for lunch. My aunt came along too. One table for the adults and another for the teenagers.
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There weren’t many plates of sushi going round because I think the chefs were not all back or something. Anyway, we had fun, eating and chatting away. Lots of plates of sushi and sashimi were ordered at the adults’ table.
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We went for a walk at Ion Orchard. Boy, was there crowded. But, it seemed like everyone was just aimlessly walking up and down, as if there was nothing to do. Well, who are we to say others, right? We were walking aimlessly too.
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Went for coffee at TCC opposite. I didn’t really like TCC so I didn’t order anything. There was no space for us in the air-conditioned area so we were made to sit outside. It will be good if the weather eased up a little. It is no secret that one of my wishes is to enjoy a cuppa at an outdoor pavilion with gentle breeze or cooler air about, obviously in an overseas setting.
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We parted our ways at about 4 plus. I then went on to Borders to find some books but I didn’t buy any because I forgot the author’s name and the books I wanted weren’t available. Anyway, I plan to go down to Orchard next week.
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And so, the long weekend ended without much fanfare.
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This Lunar New Year had been tremendously great and fun. I enjoyed myself very much. Spending it with the family and close relatives, what more could we wished for? I just want this to last for many years to come.
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These past days had me sleeping very, very late, sometimes at 1am in the morning.
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Furthermore, I am disappointed again by Mediacorp. What!? No full coverage of Vancouver Winter Games 2010? It is my favourite Olympics games! The sports are far better and superior than the Summer games, at least in my opinion.
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It’s time to ease up and rewind myself. Against my better judgement, I signed myself up for 4 days of work per week. Originally, I was going to say that I’ll be only working for 3 days. I need the time for myself, alright?
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Holidays are for me to relax and just chill. I’m not someone with no life who work all day long. For goodness sake, I even feel guilty about spending my hard-earn money! What logic is that?
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Well, well, I’m that person now, aren’t I?
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But, I am determined to water-paint and make my countdown clock soon. Of course, not forgetting my beloved books waiting to be read.
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Adieu for now

CNY part 1

12th February 2010:

Today was the day that disastrous thing happened. But, what can I do? We wanted to do damage control, but the teacher (I should have known) did not want to give us a second chance.

Yes, I was working at this day. After my work, which ended at 10 plus, we made our way to Far East Flora. As per usual, the whole area was jam-packed full of cars since there are no proper parking system.

In the end, my father didn’t make his way down because there was no parking lot available and he had to mind the car.

We were to make the purchases alone. I went to the “Cold Room” alone to see if I can buy some exotic cut flowers. Wow, the whole small area was flooded with people! People can barely walk. The flowers are a plenty but they don’t seem to be of very good quality. Or maybe, I was late. I can’t find the right flowers to complement what I already bought. Besides, the prices are a little too high for me to be comfortable. I mean, they are flowers, not that they could last forever.

We bought narcissus, and another pot of plant.

It was nearly 12 am when we made our way down to McDonalds at Ang Mo Kio as I was hungry.

Surprisingly, the whole place was nearly full. People were still eating and chatting away. There were even some people who were playing card games! Wow, do these people never sleep.

We went home after eating twister fries and chicken wings. Slept at about 1am.

13th February 2010:

Today was the eve of the Lunar New Year, where the reunion dinner took place.

The entire dinner was a fun affair. The whole family sat at the table, enjoying the home-made steam boat. All thanks to my grandmother.

After that, we had plenty of laughter while taking unglamorous pictures, not me, but my brother and cousin.

At 12am, we ushered in the Year of the Tiger.

14th February 2010:

The first day of the New Year!

Woke up early and got ready to go visiting. Actually, for us, there wasn’t much visiting to be done. Just a couple of houses to go to before we headed straight to my cousin’s house. Then, we stayed there for the rest of the day.

Ate steamboat for dinner again with my auntie’s family. Am kind of sick of it now.

Good God, What Just Happen?

This is like some sick joke, right?!

Scratch that last post, this is the worst thing that could happen to me on this day.

The whole group didn't know that there is supposed to be a franchise class today at 2pm! With peer appraisal to boot! Now, we may lose up to 5% of the freaking grade just because we are ill-informed!

Why?! Why must this pop out on this day?! With the long weekend ahead, our chances are slim to do damage control.

Argh!!! This is really bad. We slaved the whole semester away only to get his approval and in the end, may jeopardise our grade because of this stupid matter!

Oh no, you can't imagine my mood right now. You can't imagine what I want to do and say.

@#$*^%$@#!

The Last Hurrah

It's time to let your hair down and ho-li-day!

Everything is done, the holidays are here! Hurray!

Yesterday's interview role-play was alright, I guess. All the questions I prepared didn't come out, though I did make use of some of the answers I prepared beforehand. Yes, I already said I'm pathetic. Guess I didn't make a fool out of myself. Whatever, I don't want to think about it anymore.

I can hardly believe I stayed in school for some many hours after the interview and for what? A 5 minutes World Issues quiz. Out of 5 questions, I have 2 that I answered wrongly?

Gosh, things speed up in the last few weeks of school, I can't wait for it to be over and then, poof! it's time to say goodbye to semester 2.2. I'll miss my friends, luckily, we are not changing classes for semester 3.1.

Lunar New Year is here and I'm pretty excited! No matter what I declared in the past. Why, why am I working today, huh?

My manicured nails are beautiful, even I said so myself. It's a nude pink with silver tips. I tried to do the same effects on my toes but the outcome wasn't that good. Sighs...

Percy Jackson and The Lightning Thief is a must-watch this CNY! I can't wait for to watch it. It's been years since I read the first book and I remembered thinking how nice it would be if there is a movie made. I'm so going to book tickets today for Monday's show.

Just hoping that there are still good seats available.

Interview, my gosh

Gah! My worst nightmare is coming, tomorrow!

That bane of my life, the interview role-play.

I think I'm pretty pathetic. I panic and am very worried about this, since year one, I guess. I will stutter and stammer and blush my way through. But I've to work on that, the stuttering and stammering part.

Of course, there is no chance in avoiding it. Sighs, this is a good thing, because how else am I going to land a job in the future? I mean a real job. If I can't even get pass an interview?

So, now, I'm preparing typical and potential questions my teacher will ask. I have 14 questions and answers so far. I think I'll stop, it's time to memorise.

Thanks to my father, who gives me tips on the answers and of course, the Internet. And myself, I guess. I can actually write out answers, it's just the saying out loud and answering on the spot that I am very worried about.

30 minutes of torture and I swear I'll erase the potential embarrassing situation from my mind. It is mortifying enough for me to make a fool out of myself in front of classmates, the last thing I need is for me to chastise myself.

I need all the luck I have to get through this. God, this is the worst. My brain don't work that way. I don't and can't think on the spot!

If all else fails, so be it. I'll improvised on the spot. I think I have a knack in getting out of impossible situations. So, I should be just fine.

Besides, I have no hopes for it, so less chance of a disappointment to myself. Less than 20 percentage is based on this anyway. I am confident that the test and the other components will cover up this ugly spot.

If tomorrow never comes ... how will I enjoy my holidays?

Gone with the wind

Ahhh, this feeling of weirdness inside me.

The semester will end on Thursday, after the interview role-play and quiz. On one hand, I'm very glad that the term will end very soon. On the other hand, I will miss this semester.

I don't know, unlike other semesters, this has got to be the best and the worst. It is like a love/hate relationship, non?

The team dynamics have been more than great but the stress levels I felt is way too high. I wouldn't want to say I miss what I experienced because I'm happy to get rid of it. I have had fun this semester and it makes me nostalgic.

I feel "off" this semester, like I'm too strung-up, or is that my New Year resolution taking place?

I'm grateful and fortunate to get pretty good and approachable tutors/lecturers. Or perhaps, I am a little bias in this aspect since they have been good with our projects and grades. I can only hope that my remaining semesters teachers will be as well as them.

Suddenly, it seems I'm thrust into the big, wide world. All those late nights mugging for projects and more projects, then, all of a sudden, I'm free! The feeling is strange. I have so much time on my hands.

Ha, those extra effort out into projects are going to be worth it. The tutors seem kind of impressed with what we have. All I know is that SME will give me an A, well, unless they moderate the marks. I'll scream if I get a Z.

I don't want to speculate much before the results. Lest I jinx it. Oh, the agony, to have to wait about one month before I can get the grades for this semester. At least 4 As, with my fingers crossed.

I'll be making the most of my holidays. I plan to start water-painting and doing my countdown clock. But, right now, I just want to relax and clear my brain. And my brain is dead, indeed. I can't think or wish to do anything at this moment.

I have strong wishes to go on a vacation... However, it is falling short. Still, I will hold on to that hope.

Chinese New Year is just around the corner. As much as I said that I felt no spirits for it, after shopping and going out on Saturday, I felt so much better. I can hardly wait for it! New clothes, hanging out with family, maybe for a movie or two, who doesn't like that?

Finger crossed for my interview.

Aye & Nay

Something to cheer about.

Yesterday's Communication Skills 2 test was good! Oh yes, I think I can get quite good marks for it. I did the minutes writing first because that is the most important part.

I can't believe the worry and apprehension I felt through the preparation for the summative test. Actually, I can. Because I want myself to do well.

Friday's Franchising presentation was a success, I should say. My group was the last group to present and we waited for more than 2 hours before it was finally our turn. The wait was long and slightly agonising. I don't understand why some groups took so long.

Anyway, the teacher was kinda impressed with our work. Oh well, let the grades do the talking, shall we? I just don't want someone to stab us on the back.

Friday's Travel and Leisure test wasn't OK though. Yeah, it's open-book. So what? I had thought that planning itinerary would come out and I thank my good fortune that I had brochure itinerary from Japan and Australia.

1 and a half hour was just not enough. I don't have the time to finish the paper and flipping through the notes finding the right answers to fill in the blanks. In the end, I had a couple of blanks not filled in. But the short answers section was manageable.

All that is left now is SME presentation on Monday and Interview Role-play on Thursday. Can't believe I have to stay back until 4pm for the 5 minutes World Issues quiz on the last day of school.

Just another day

Indefinite hiatus again.

Really, it boils down to 2 things when it comes to updating. One, whether I have inspiration to write something. Two, whether I'm feeling alright enough to pen down my thoughts.

This post is just an entry to bump things along and keep things going.

I've been feeling rather lethargic and moody lately, need I say? It's all those projects and tests and role-plays. It's really getting on my nerves.

Wooh~ Final project was handed up today. Must say I'm pleased generally. I have such high hopes for each and every one of them. As, here I come!

Communication Skills 2 is a killer. I understand the need for a test but, really, in the working world, do you seriously think we have to memorise each and every single format and ways to write a letter, minutes of meetings and all that? C'mon, this doesn't make sense whatsoever.

Don't even let me start on the interview role-play. It makes me so nervous just to think of it. But, what will come, will come. Just 15 minutes, and I'll be out. Grade be darn. I have no hopes for this aspect at all.

Although, I'm that type of person who rather take exams over projects, I must say I'm somehow glad that school term will end in 1 week time. Yay!

This term has been rather tough for me what with all that pressure and expectations.

Suddenly, I'm hit with this thought, I'll out of school in 1 year time. Oh goodness, time seems to have pass so quickly if I project it forward. I'll be lose in this strange, new world. Everything will be in a different perspective.

Am I ready? Not that I know of.

Of course, if I have the chance, I'll jump at any opportunity to go overseas to study. Be it soon or later. It's now or never, and I don't want to miss out on this experience.

And I have to start researching on my coveted graduation trip. I really don't want to miss out this perfect chance to go. Everything is just right, at least I think so.

When all is said and done, I'll be back. This time, with more happiness.

Of Wedding & Plans

Thought I would write something light for a change.

On Saturday, 23th January, the whole family attended 表哥's wedding at Changi Village Hotel. It was an Afternoon reception. Before the wedding lunch, there was a solemnisation ceremony too. And after that was the tea ceremony.

It was a fun day, it is a once in a blue moon chance for the whole family to attend a wedding reception together.

Too bad we didn't take many photos that day.

Anyway, there's always Chinese New Year, and by then, I would have been free.

I can't wait to do the things I want. I'm so making a list of the stuff I must complete when semester 3.1 rolls in.

My last holiday as a "free person". 3.1 holidays would see me doing internship and 3.2 holidays is when I will graduate. Oh god, it seems so fast. As much as I like poly life to end, I rather study than to do something else. And I do want to go University, preferably overseas.

But before making any plans, I have to start researching on that trip to Florida.

Soon, my dear, soon.

Obliviate

All of a sudden, I feel unsatisfied with myself and the work I did.

Seriously, my mind is almost a total blank. Thoughts are swirling around but nothing substantial can be put down. All the energy has been use up and there is no way I can charge them.

Sometimes, I wish I could just Obliviate myself.

I can't wait till all the projects are handed up and presentations are done. Then, it will be the last hurrah for me...

Of Morbid Tales

A morbid tale I'll rather forget.

Finally, I snapped. What prompted me to write this morbid entry is the general fact that things are getting worse.

3 more weeks of school and I can't stand it anymore! This is sick! This is inhumane!

Oh my, I'm really feeling depressed, down and blue. I don't know, this semester does seem worse than the previous.

This is probably cause by my own doing. I keep pushing myself to the edge. I want to get things done properly. It is not just about passing anymore, it is more of a life or death option for me. I want to ace these subjects!

I know I can't do it for all. But at least 3 subjects have to do be As, as I kept mentioning. As are addictive, like a drug. Once you get one, you had to have more and more.

I'm doing this all for myself and the future I want to have. Good grades will mean a higher chance at getting a good job with good pay and than I can get the good life I want. No matter what those naysayers say otherwise, ultimately, in this world, grades and education do mean a great deal.

Sometimes, I just can't help but to wish I could turn back time. Those years in the secondary school were the best, even with the exams and what not. At least, I was truly happy and carefree then.

Now, with all this self-inflicted pressure and pain, I am just surviving and trying to fight alone. I want to get this Poly life over and done with, of course, after making sure I grab as much as I can before I make a run for it.

Ahh, I have all these thoughts swirling in my mind, but I can't seem to put them into words. I think this is enough for the day...

I need to get myself a tub of ice-cream and comfort myself.

TGIF.

MIA the Golden Globes

Holy crow!

Where is the showing of 67th Golden Globes Awards ceremony in Singapore?! It is supposed to be held on 17th Jan, USA timing.

I thought that Channel 5 would always show it, as well as the Oscars.. at least I think so.

Oh, but I really do want to see the ceremony...

Argh, where is it? Damnation! It's so unfair.. to have no choice but to rely on an unreliable TV station..

Guess I have no choice but to see the winners online...

The worst thing is I can only see people twitting about the funny moments..

The Things You Do For ... Grades

I'm pleased.

If I keep this up, I'm on my way to reaching my goals, maybe even much more than I expected.

I got back my 2 mid-semester tests results, A for both. Which means 25% is secured. Furthermore, for Franchising Business, my individual report got an A too. 40% done.

For Communication Skills 2, I had 2 As as of now, still don't the percentage though.

Had an A for the 20% Club and Resort test 1 as well.

These As don't come easy. The amount of effort I put in, the stress levels I had for myself. Nobody but myself is giving me pressure.

Of course, I couldn't have done it without luck and something more.

My aim this time round is at least 3 As and the rest B+ without any Bs. With that, I can push my GPA to 3.7 and above. Would I may...

The race is on to make the rest of the tests and projects and presentations a fulfilling and rewarding one.

Of Sense & Sensibility

Yay!

Well, despite my other commitments, I managed to find time to catch on my almost non-existence reading.

I must say I'm pleased. Sense and Sensibility by Jane Austen is my latest conquest in classics.

I admit that I developed an interest in it after knowing that Alan Rickman played one role inside the 1995 adaptation of the book. Furthermore, after reading Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen, I really love the plot.

I had read Persuasion, Emma and tried a few pages of Northanger Abbey, still Sense and Sensibility and Pride and Prejudice remain my favourites.

I am, of course, determined to watch most if not all of the TV and movie adaptations, book sequels, fanfictions on both titles.

Right now, I'm making good headway with Sense and Sensibility since I almost finished all of Pride and Prejudice's adaptations and sequels.

First of, the 1995 movie adaptation, directed by Ang Lee, script written by Emma Thompson who also portrayed Elinor in the movie. Not forgetting some of the familiar faces, Hugh Grant as Edward Ferrars, Alan Rickman as Colonel Brandon.



5 actors and actresses who starred in the Harry Potter films are also featured in this movie. Imelda Staunton as Mrs Palmer (Umbridge) , Elizabeth Spriggs as Mrs Jennings (Fat Lady), Robert Hardy as Sir John Middleton (Fudge), Alan Rickman as Colonel Brandon (Severus Snape) and Emma Thompson as Elinor Dashwood (Prof. Trelawney).

It won numerous awards and nominations in the Oscars and Golden Globes. It's a very lovely adaptation though like most movies, things got shift around and changed.

Secondly, the 2008 BBC mini series of the same title. Since it is not a movie, there is more time for characters development and the love to show. The story slowly play out, which appeals to me. There are more original characters appearing than the movie, again, I assumed because of time constraints.


One thing to note is the lack of familiar faces and stars in this adaptation. Still, fresh faces are kind of good.

And this is where the movie adaptations stop.

Next up, book sequels.

One novel that I really like is Colonel Brandon's Diary by Amanda Grange, who also wrote Mr Darcy's Diary. This novel is from the viewpoint of Colonel Brandon, need I say?

A fun and refreshing read! I love the development around this "secondary" character in Jane Austen's book. So much about him just waiting to be discovered.

I'm always interested in reading the POV of the other important characters or those I have a soft spot to.

Last but I hope not the least, Sense and Sensibility and Sea Monsters by Ben H. Winters. This is a parody of the Jane Austen's book. There is another one called Pride and Prejudice and Zombies but I'm not interested in it. Sea Monsters, however, I've more interest in.


I want to acquire this book! But only after my semester end. There are also others that I'm going to buy, however, I must resist the temptation to buy them now.

Tough luck, my dears

Well, well, who would have known that the Japan Trip would draw so much interest?

I warranted it will caused some stir because it's a trip to Japan, but never in my dreams would I thought that in mere minutes when the clock stroked twelve that night, so many people were sending in their particulars.

I heard that over 100 people signed up for the trip but obviously there is only 20 plus spaces available. I was wronged again when I thought they will open up more vacancies to cope with the influx.

To think that they publicise it so much as if nobody will go and strongly encouraged us all to sign up.

I was really surprised that I wasn't offered a space, I mean, I sent my entry in at 12.05am. But, whatever. One of the reasons I expressed interest is because of the company I hope to get. Since, I didn't get it and the number is so high, it's best to let it go.

And surprisingly, I had a call today from the teacher-in-charge. There was a vacancy and she asked if I'm still interested. I told her no.

I still think it's a good experience to have. For the first time to go overseas with the school, with no contract to boot. I can now save up the money and dedicated it to my graduation trip instead. Florida!

Holy crow!

Holy crap!

This is tough. It doesn't matter if it's interesting or whatever, because at the end of the day, it's just one giant headache and heartache.

I don't really feel like elaborating on it. I just hope and wish mightily that whatever "we" are doing is on the right track and MY grades are beautiful.

Group projects are heartache in the sense that your ideas may or may not sit well with others, and vice versa. I like to give myself the benefit of doubt. I like to be in control too.

Ultimately, if I don't care enough, my grades may or may not go down the drain. So, really, I shouldn't care that much if I appear more tough than usual, it's MY grades I am concern about, MY future I am relying on. To be selfish is natural.

God only knows how my tolerance level is nowadays. Ah well, all I can say is too bad this isn't an individual project, I can do it my way if it's so. It's 3 more days away then I'll say good riddance to it.

This term has been like a balancing act.

As I get closer to graduation, my stress levels get higher, I get more irritated... Life is a rat race and I want to be in front.

I just have a thought. I think I'm going to set up another blog to put in my precious works in it. Be it for referencing or for the fun of it. Individual projects, ideas, my parts in group projects, etc. Proper disclaimers will be made, of course. This will have to wait till the sucky term ends.

What should I do?

Should I or shouldn't I, that is the question.

So, there is a study trip to Japan in this long holidays. I am thinking about whether I want to go or not.

On one hand, I feel like this is too good an opportunity to be missed and I should grab the chance. One the other hand, I will be breaking one of my Golden Rules "Never go on overseas trips that require flying with classmates". I'll probably embarrassed myself...

Gods, the best solution is to, of course, go. But I'm worried about not having any acquaintances on the entire trip. I mean, I took some pretty risky decisions in the past, knowing that I'll be all alone. Don't even get me started on the "fiasco" that was in Sec 2 going on Sec 3.

The opening date is the day after tomorrow. I think I will see what my friends do. It's a stupid idea, to rotate yourself around other's decisions. However, what am I to do?

I'll probably feel better if I'm sure that this year I can have an overseas trip with the family.

If, I happens not to make a decision, I guess I will regret it...

From the past to present

Brand new start in a brand new year.

I bet no one is too thrilled about it, be it going to school or back to work. I think that after nearly 2 weeks of hiatus/fun, reality is looking far too gruesome.

Oh my, the last 2 weeks of 2009 has been perfecto. It is the best days of my life. It is like we were making up for not being able to go overseas to spend Christmas. It certainly felt that way. I felt so blessed.
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Enough fun and indulgence to last me through the weeks ahead.
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Although I'm back to school for a few days on the last week of 2009, it was more relaxing than I thought. My father, who was on leave, drove me to school almost everyday.

I had more shopping done than in years. Shopping almost every week in the month of December. I had pre-Christmas and post-Christmas presents.

On Tuesday 22nd December, I went out with a primary school friend and caught up with each other. On 24th December, I went out for a movie gathering with some Sec 4 friends. The week before, the whole family went out and enjoyed ourselves, as if the weekdays were weekends.

New Year equals new beginning. My father scheduled to take his brand, new car on 31st December. Just in time to usher in the new year. The new car is in medium grey metallic, with a hint of olive green undertone. The colour was chose by us. The new car is slightly more spacious than the old one.

This Christmas, even though we spent it in Singapore, it felt more fun than ever. Or was it because of our expectations? It certainly exceed expectations, in my opinion.

Well, well, is it too early to start counting down to the end of my semester? February is just around the corner, isn't it? By mid-February, I'll be free! Before than, I'm going to be wound tighter than a screw.

It is going to be hectic. I don't need Alice to tell me that. Rushing for project this, project that. Oh goodness...

Indeed, my fantasy world is looking brighter as the moments slip by, reality is just this smack to your face, telling you to wake up.

I feel as if I haven't sort out my priorities, and even if I do, I am not adhering to them. Why am I feeling more relax than what I should be? Despite the new year, I feel I have not changed.

I have such expectations for 2010, since 2009 has been more or less great for me.