Live from Orlando

I'm so glad I can be part of this glorious moment!
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This morning, which is Florida's Wednesday night, there was a live feed from Universal Orlando Wizarding World of Harry Potter grand opening kick-off event. I'm so thrilled that I can be part of this, despite living halfway across USA and sitting at home viewing via telecast.

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This is most awesome news ever for the Harry Potter franchise! Ever since 2007, when Universal announced that they will be building the village and Hogwarts, I've been eyeing to go. I lost track of its progress for a few years and suddenly, in late 2009, coverage of the construction and wondrous promises reached my ears and I decided to make it my graduation present.

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Voila! The quest for earning enough money to enjoy myself fully is born!

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June 18th 2010 is the grand opening day for the Wizarding World. Today's event had actors and J K Rowling herself attending.

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At 9.10pm, J. K Rowling was on the red carpet. And the Hogwarts frog choir led by Professor Filtwick (Warwick Davis) started off singing the Hogwarts March and Something Wicked This Way Comes.

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John Williams, composer for a few Harry Potter movies, directed the Orlando orchestra. Haunting notes from Hedwig's theme floated around. My heart clenched a little because it just brought back memories.

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The Knight Bus arrived to the scene with the Harry Potter stars: Tom Felton, Oliver and James Phelps, Bonnie Wright, Michael Gambon, Matthew Lewis. Daniel Radcliffe and Rupert Grint arrived in the Ford Anglia. Cheers rose as they went on stage.

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With a swish of the wands, led by Dan Radcliffe, shouts of Lumos were heard. Then, the most spectacular sight and memorable moment appeared. Hogwarts was finally revealed! It was aglow with lights; a light show and fireworks set the atmosphere nicely for those who were present.

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Even for viewers across the globe who have managed to catch the live feed on the official website, this is the moment to be savoured.

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Of course I would give anything to be there, right here, right now. It's my greatest wish to attend the grand opening! Sighs, the chance is nada unless someone offer me a ticket to Orlando.

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I couldn't be there this year, but never fear, I'll be there the next. This is my promise to myself. I will spend all I can there, to bring back memories I will always look back with love.

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Oh, what I would give for the year 2010 to speed by.

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They promise that the Wizarding World will meet the expectations of Harry Potter fans and we will get a completely immersing experience once we're there. You breathe Hogwarts, you live Hogwarts. Now is the chance to see what the other world live like.

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For a day, you can pretend you are a student, destined to graduate from Hogwarts, buying and eating wizard goods. Oh, I can't wait to get my hands on some Slytherin merchandise.

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Director's Honours List 2010

Ho Ho Ho! Finally! It's a dream come true for me!

Last year I was disappointed I didn't get into the Direct Honours List. Guess what?! I got in this time round!

Wow, I would say I can't believe it, but in truth, I can. I work hard for one whole year, semester 2.2 was extremely gruelling but I pulled through with all As and distinctions.

Yes, now my efforts paid off and instead of the more subtle results slip, I can have my parents attending the ceremony.

I've to say this is my and their first time attending such event. This is the moment of glory and pride for me. I am going to treasure it like no other. One more happy moment to add into the list.

In all my school life, I didn't get close to getting awards. Recognition for my yearly efforts is practically close to none. Sure, I was first in class once in secondary school and that was it. Nineteen years later, this came and I was ecstatic.

The Director's Honours List is awarded to students in the top 10 percent of the whole Diploma in Business cohort.

Now, the last year for me. I don't think this chance is going to come to my doorsteps again. It's just too difficult with the way things are going. With luck and help from divine powers, may it be that I can grace the doors again.

This is extremely helpful in giving me the boost I desperately needed in this godforsaken term. Hopefully, I can get back on my feet again and be the best that I can.

Memories

In my other life, I seem to have remembered these familiar faces. The faces of teachers who had taught me and whom I esteemed.

However, with the pass of time, my memories of them become fuzzy. I cling tightly to these memories because they are of the best in my schooling life. The upper secondary period is something I treasured most, now that O levels was a thing behind.

It's not that I don't like my school life now. It's just it is not up there on my list. There are some aspects which I like. I guess that when graduation comes, I will only look back with fond memories.

On another note, holidays, even short ones, are enough to make you forget about your other life. Other life being the life in school with dreadful projects.

Oh gods, I heard that people received their Direct Honours List already! I sincerely hope that on of these days, when the letterbox is opened, lo behold, the invitation will be waiting for me. Please, please, please...

GSS

Yesterday, my father and mother took the day off and we went shopping since it's the Great Singapore Sale season. My brothers went for a cycling session with my cousins.

First we went for lunch. After that, we went to CentrePoint's Robinsons to look for clothes. We didn't manage to get anything from there though. This is just typical of us. We left for OG across the road and my mother bought a blouse after a long time. I bought a shirt and 2 shorts.

We were quite tired by then and had ice-cream at Haagen-Dazs. I ordered strawberry ice-cream on a waffle while my parents ordered one ice-cream creation with 6 mini ice-cream.

We bought a pendant from Simont as a birthday gift. In the end, we saw another pendant that looks good and got it it. The design is very unique, a triangular-shaped piece, with swirling blue and black glass.

We made a trip up to Esprit. I managed to get a dark blue dress which cost quite a lot. I love Esprit designs but why does the clothes they sell cost so much?

My father and I went back to Robinsons to get me a new pillow and we had this $5 voucher for spending more than $50. My father actually wanted to throw it away since it only last till end of the month. I suggested spending it on something small and trivial. In the end, we got a mug. It originally cost $9.90, after discount and using the voucher, it was $2, which is worth it.

It's a great day! It's been ages since we did something like that.

World Cup Season

"The world stops turning when the World Cup is on"

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The World Cup season is here again! This time it is held in South Africa.
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I still remembered the good old times of past World Cups, my brother and I would childishly cheered our favourite teams and jeered the others at home. Sighs, I even wrote out a list of teams I like, determined by how I love the country.
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This year though, we would be only able to watch the opening, semi-final and final matches on free-to-air TV. For one, we are not huge enough fans to subscribe that highly debatable price the Telco charges.
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I, personally, can't wait for the World Cup 2010 despite not being a soccer fan in the first place. No, I don't chase after the English Premier League or other significant games. But, World Cup is a must-watch, isn't it?
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And isn't the World Cup's goal to bring together people, be them fans or not, to get them excited for their countries? In me, they have achieve that purpose, because I am excited and geared up for it.
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Productivity will go down, absentee rates will go up, sleepless nights are bound to be, cheers bound to be heard in the various pubs. You know it's World Cup season when these happen.

Shrugs

Despite my own misapprehension, I would like to think that I can work wonders too. I would like to give myself the benefit of doubt too.
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I should think everyone desires that. I may be sceptical of what they say, but deep inside, I would like to think that it will truly benefit me.
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I want to see results in the long term. The way some lecturers put it, the subject we are taught now will have great cause to our future. Don't be mistaken, I've no doubts that things will work out, if you truly put your heart into it. I guess I'm just worried that I can't work it out now.
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And whether it will be of use to us next time, let me just get pass this round first.
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I'm, of course, talking about Strategic Entrepreneurship.
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Blah, blah, blah, the lecturer goes. Nonetheless, I don't deny he has good intentions in mind. Perhaps I can't feel it now, but when I look back in the future, I would want to think of fond memories. Let's not make things worst the way they are. I want the memories to be of goodness.

A Peek into an Incoherent Mind

Questions, questions.

Have I been thinking too much so much so that I can't even form a coherent thought in my mind now?

What prompt me to think that going back to school on holidays is a good idea in the first place?For goodness sake, I don't even feel like leaving the bed.

There could only be one bad thing about holidays and that is this: holidays with responsibilities!

Holidays in mid-term is a very bad idea. The idea of having a holiday but having to work on your projects is a torture with the capital letter T. It's a tantalising thought complete with torture devices.

I welcome holidays with open arms but this is a little bit sadistic. You get holidays but have to use the time to work on so many different projects. Is it little wonder that my brain is mush?
Update: My Muse is back, it seems. I just hope it doesn't go away too soon this time.

Alright, there are lots of thoughts swirling around now. I'm not exactly the most eloquent person around. I think a lot, and when I don't put them on paper there and then, I lost them. It gets really frustrating.

It's a good thing I'm not an aspiring author because this is a bad habit to have.

You know what? I want a beta reader to proof-read my projects. Not necessary to correct but to see whether it works and flows properly and put in their 2 cents. Hmmm, if only I dwell within the fanfiction world, since the authors are always looking for a good beta. Too bad, it's just a thought.

Eclipse Posters

-Eclipse official poster-

-Fan-made posters-

Disclaimer: None of these posters belong to me.

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Now, let's see. I figured I would do a "New Moon" and put up an entry on posters (fan-made and official) for Eclipse the movie.

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The first on top of this list of Eclipse the movie posters is the official one used for the promotion.

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I've been wanting to say this for quite some time, but never have the chance of doing so until now. It's quite plain, in my opinion. Other than the colour tones used, I don't really like the poster. It says nothing of the plot of the story and they looked too photoshopped.

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The designers really need to step up on their work, as echoed by many other fans.

Showcase something dramatic, something pivotal in the plot. Asking the 3 main actors to pose like that did nothing to arouse any fancy.

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If I am someone who is not a fan, I wouldn't even bat an eyelid when I see the poster.

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The rest of the posters below are fan-made and they are my personal favourites after looking through the net for them.

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Of course, people are more agreeable and forgiving where fan-made stuff are concerned. Firstly, they are made by fellow fans who love the series enough to do that. Secondly, for all we know, they are not professionals and did them during their free time.

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Besides, these are the real good ones, even looking more professional than the official one. So, they still used photoshop, but at least these look more authentic and original.

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I'm so excited for the movie! It's my favourite book of the series and judging from the early review I read, it looks to be really awesome! Both in the romance and action parts. Wow, I hope David Slade really delivers.

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Movie Outing & Musings

Went for a movie with my friend who is back from the States on Friday.
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Too bad I had work or else we could have gone further places. But as it was, we just went to Causeway Point to catch Shrek Forever After in 3D at 11.50am.

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It is a fun film though I didn't catch the prequels in the theaters. The 3D effects are great!

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After the movie, we went for lunch at Crystal Jade before parting our ways because I had to go back.

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"Begin each day by telling yourself: Today, I shall be meeting with interference, ingraditude, insolence, disloyalty, ill-will and self-fishness - all of them due to the offenders' ignorance of what is good or evil"

It's almost too easy to forget that I still have a daunting task in front of me whenever the holidays roll in. It is too easy to put the thought of school aside when you don't have to be physically there. Like the the old adage; out of sight, out of mind.

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I don't have to pretend and put on a false front everyday. I don't have to grit my teeth to go with the flow. Most importantly, is what I don't want to put here. If you think I am happy in school, you have another one coming.

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No, I'm not. Not for once. Perhaps only on a few occasions. Say, when the projects end and when I get back my good results.

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In the holidays, I can actually be happy for once. More so now.

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I'm thinking of starting another more personal blog post in another place. Somewhere where I can actually write what I want to say.

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That's that.

One Enchanted Evening book review

Finally! Montgomery got his own book! And his own ”fairy”! Besides, the cover art of Sedgewick is to be died for.
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I love all of Lynn Kurland’s time-travel romance novels and on top of that, Montgomery is one of my favourite characters since I read about him as side character in other novels. Needless to say, I am extremely thrilled to find out that he is to have his own story.
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I finished the novel as soon as I can and something hits me. As much as I love the novel, I feel that something is lacking. I guess I was looking forward to Pippa and Montgomery staying in the Future.-
For me, I don't think I can give up all the comforts of the modern life. Perhaps, because I am a Future girl and there’s no way I am giving up all I have. Or maybe, I feel that the girl shouldn’t always be the one giving up all she has to be together with a guy. But still, someone has to give in this sort of relationship.

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I would have loved it more if more emphasis is placed on Montgomery’s trip to the Future. The modern wonders and gadgets through the eyes of a medieval character should prove to be very entertaining and soul-searching if the author focuses on that.

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But, of course, the main plot revolves around the relationship of Pippa and Montgomery and so, this issue is just brought-across.-
It’s hard to have ultimate favourites when each and every novel is beautiful in its own way. My favourites are Another Chance to Dream, If I Had You, This Is All I Ask, To Kiss in the Shadows, Stardust of Yesterday. I figure that I like the ones best that have the 2 main characters stay in their Time.
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It too is getting confusing what with the number of characters appearing, visiting the Future and going back to the past. Phew.
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I can’t wait till next year for Lynn Kurland’s new book! It’s really awesome that she manages to stick to a schedule; that is to publish one novel per year. Isabelle and John’s stories are my most anticipated ones.

Deed is Done

The deed is done. My mind is blissfully blank now.

I can't think of anything of import. It's almost a poor choice to organise a meeting tonight. Sighs.

It's the end of the Mid-semester tests apparently. Let's just say we'll see when the results are out.

How Blue Are You?

"Let's talk Blue Ocean"

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Make your competitors irrelevant by finding that Blue Ocean. Alas, in exams, we can only fight in bloody red oceans, where sharks and barracudas circled.

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It's that time again, when Mid-semester tests hit. I have 2 mid-semester tests this time round, adding on to the 2 tests done last week.

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Managerial Accounting 1 test today was kind of alright, dare I say, easy. It was straightforward and I must get an A or else. But, I already knew I had 2 mistakes for MCQs. What can I say?

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Wednesday's paper will be Strategic Entrepreneurship. It will be challenging, to quote the teacher. Ahhh, I sure hope for the best. He gives vague tips and is generally an elusive person. Sighs.

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At least 4 As is my goal this term. I really have to keep up, if not improve my GPA. This term looks to be the toughest yet. I am so worried about the group projects. I am afraid of delivering less-than-stellar work.

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My Darlings

It's been some fine days since 27th May 2010. My friend is back in town for the summer and we met up after my classes on Thursday.
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We ate at NorthPoint and I finally received the long-awaited special edition New Moon DVD from Borders and Twilight Graphic Novel.

It feels great that I managed to get what I wanted from the States. I've yet to pay her back though. In total, it cost me S$70. Well, what can I say? It's worth it.
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On Friday, after my father returned home from his overseas trip, we left for Orchard Road.
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First, we went to a photograph exhibition outside Mandarin Gallery. It was titled "Biodiversity". Oh boy, the photographs taken are truly an inspiration for someone who likes to take photographs, like me, for instance. The winning entry is a masterpiece. It depicts a rare sight: an otter chasing after a crab in the waters off Sungei Buloh.
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There must be some activities going on at Orchard due to the sheer number of people thronging the streets. The start of the Great Singapore Sale and a public holiday must be contributing factors too.
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We managed to find a parking lot at Ngee Ann City and I went to collect my coveted book, One Enchanted Evening by Lynn Kurland.

I bought bedsheets at Takashimaya, however, I didn't really like the colours. I was further disappointed after I reached home and found out that only the pillowcase has the purple-striped pattern while the bedsheets is a off-white colour. I felt cheated. Thank goodness, I didn't bought the bolster-casing.
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It led to me thinking what's with the world of bedsheets designs nowadays. They are either in one colour tone which is too dull or in "loud" designs which is too bright. I can't find one that suit me.
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My taste reflects on my existing bedsheets which is my ultimate favourite. Not only is it soft and beautiful embroidered, it has flowers scattered here and there. It is sophisticated yet not too "old".
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We left Orchard with my aunt who is working there at around 8pm plus. Once I reached home, I immediately set to read One Enchanted Evening and read through the night till 1am. I finished the novel on Saturday afternoon. There will be a post on the review soon.

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Bittersweet End

"Dont cry because it's over, smile because it happened"

http://www.mugglenet.com/app/news/show/3505/page/1
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"The end is nigh, fellow fans... I don't really know what to say! I can't fathom a world without the phenomenon of Harry Potter, it has been a part of my life for so long! I am sad, excited, and joyful that Harry made it through in one piece and had the happy ending we all hoped he'd have.
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It's not like after the last film all this will just disapparate like a certain cheeky, wide eyed house elf - we will continue to love HP and more kids will be reading and loving it too! But, as many kids will read this series and see the films and listen to the music in the future - we are the first fans, we can proudly say we were there when Harry Potter was born and were loving every moment of it!

We were here through the desperate times, trying to piece together theories on what will happen next and waiting - oh the endless waiting! - for the next book or film.

I salute JK Rowling for everything she has done. She is such a brilliantly talented writer and role model! I hope to be an author/illustrator someday and she has certainly inspired me that anything is possible, you never know how something will go until you try!" (Ginny_and_Crookshanks_PotterObsessed)

"Howdy Pards, As we wipe tears away we must admit that we knew this moment would someday come.

These characters that have become so much a part of all our lives will live forever in the books, up there on the silver screen, and in our hearts. The actors who played a part in Harry Potter will truly become immortal now... they are a part of a classic series of stories that will live for all time.

In the crystal ball, I see a future of star reunions...of books...of conventions about Harry Potter that will last until the last star has left us. The celebrations will continue... Somehow there is a real magic in all this beginning, of course, with the imagination of J.K. Rowling... the skills of the filmmakers... all those wonderful folks behind the scenes who played a part... and all those actors who brought the wonderful characters in Harry's world to life.

Along with the feelings of sadness, let there be feelings of thanks to all who gave the world the wonderful gift that is Harry Potter. We will grow old...but the magic will remain forever fresh and new to generation after generation...make no mistake Harry Potter is classic storytelling at its very best...and classics live for all time. Adios for now." (wildolddan)

"In these last moments of Harry Potter, I have to express my most joyful love for this series among other things.

From the first time I heard the first book in 2nd grade, I never understood how much of an impact it had on me until I finally see it coming to an end. Although the spectacle has lasted for my whole life, I will still cherish the lessons and experiences these books and movies and theme park have taught me even after it is done.

Imagination can crowd the mind, but it never hurts the mind. And J.K. Rowling only emphasizes my dear love for imagination, even though imagination can't seem to crowd mine. Thank you so much Rowling, filmmakers, for helping realize the love that this series portrayed and displayed without prejudice." (Greenspade)

These are some of the best tributes I have read so far and they literally took the words from my mouth. I have to admit I'm not very good at using words to express my feelings even though I love my words.

So, instead of me typing all these out, I've decided to play cheat and take some of what I considered good tributes from fellow fans and post them. Credit are given as due.

Of course, the end is not that near. But given the way filming are being done, the epilogue filming this week, we can say that things are coming to a standstill soon.

There is still post-production and not to mention, until mid-2011 before the last part of Deathly Hallows is shown on the silver screen.

I feel so proud to be here, sharing every moment with the rest of the fans as we dissect the paragraphs, speculate on the endings, shiver with anticipation over the release of each film and book.

And when the time comes when all this end, that's where the tributes and bittersweet tears will come pouring. And it's then I'll start on my personal tribute to the wondrous J. K. Rowling and the film crew for bringing life to imagination and imagination to life.

Until then.

Fun Saturday

22nd of May was fun.


The family went out again. This time to Suntec City as my brothers wanted to buy toys. Despite apprehension about the upcoming Event Management test on an early Monday morning, I still enjoyed myself.


We ate at Crystal Jade Restaurant and while my brothers went to Toys R Us, we went to G2000. It is near the period for the Great Singapore Sales and everywhere are offering discounted items.


I bought an office blouse since one of mine was torn.


We then went to Lee Hwa Jewellery as my mother wanted to buy a pendant for my Aunt's birthday. She ended up buying a purple gold pendant herself. It was on a special rate and she bought it.

Wow! It is something I wanted since purple gold is made possible. Next time, next time.

We were eligible for the membership and I signed it under my name. I have 2 membership cards now. One from TianPo Jewellery and the other is Lee Hwa.

After which, we walked over to Marina Square to drink at Coffee Club. I ordered the usual, Strawberry Passion Tea Freeze. I am going to try the various dairy-free smoothies next time round.
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Peaches & Lemons

Life is just peachy, isn't it?

I've endured for years, now that there's only months to go, why is it that I suddenly feel that things are hard to get along?

Graduation Day 2010 is in my school and this brought out a torrent of emotions in me. For one, I can't wait to graduate and put the full-stop in this chapter of my life. It has gone on for long enough and it's time to let go.

I won't go so far to say that I won't miss the times I have in Poly. Sure, there are moments I treasured and loved. But, unfortunately, that is far and between.

I want to wear the graduation robes and get my diploma. I want that experience and memory.

You know, for someone who grab hold on the past and the mundane so tightly, it is funny how I can let things go just as quickly. I like the predictable, the simplicity. I hate changes. But, oh, what wouldn't I give to experience something so wondrous and strange and unique!

It has always been my dream to study overseas, be it sooner or later. I want to travel, to see what I've seen on clips and articles.

Yes, I have good days and bad days. Everything else just falls in between. There are days when I feel as if life is just plain meaningless. Why do we work so hard for? Is it for glory? Is it to fulfil your materialistic gains? Because, ultimately, everything will end. Whether you are high up in the corporate ladder or just another man on the streets, everything will come to an end.

However, it boils down to one thing. Do you want to be the loser or the winner or at least be able to answer to yourself?

Despite sounding so depressing, I wouldn't worry for myself. Let's just say writing all these is a way to release my stress. Besides, there are things I've yet to do. Places yet to be travel. Movies yet to be watched. Books yet to be read. Entertainment yet to be seen. Goals yet to be fulfilled.

I may be a greater fool but I've not lose my mind.

Let us rewind back to school stuff. Semester 3.1 only has a word to describe it. Bad. Real bad. I can't wait for it to end and Semester 3.2 to come and go. Then, I'll be out in the lonely and cruel world. Just peachy, as I said.

Semester 3.1 is bad in so many ways. The lecturers, the subjects, the projects, the feel of things. Everything is just "off". Or is it me who is "off"? Perhaps I'm working on a different wavelength
from others.

Ha, I have yet to even see and experience a quarter of the real world but it seems I can be really insightful when I want to.

I've still a long, long way to go but I'm weary.

Anyway, as they put it, "when Life gives you lemons, throw them back and demand chocolates."

At Wits End

I'm really at my wits end over the project of Product Development and Innovation.

The teacher did bring up a good point. He said that the Singapore system and the world's in general follows a hierarchy and we are brought up with model answers. So, to thrust us into a world of innovation proves to be daunting for us.

At first glance, the project seems harmless enough, even fun. However, when you look deeper, you would realise that you are in really deep trouble if you are the kind of person with a lack of creativity. Like me.

Yes, I can come up with some pretty good innovations if I am NOT under pressure. Like they say, inspiration hits when you least expect it.

But now, I am on a tight schedule to get things done. Originally, my plans was to develop on the cellphone, to make physical aspects better. Lo and behold! Technology moves faster than my brain and those ideas I thought of already sort of exist in the market.

Furthermore, a classmate whose presentation is earlier than mine was doing on cellphone too. And her ideas almost clashed with mine. To make things work, I have to give up on my plans. Anyway, it wasn't that great in the beginning.

I sought out help from my friends and family members. While some of them gave wacky but great ideas, others seem to be like me, with no ideas flowing.

Now, I want to do on laptops. I don't know why the products I choose to do on are all electronics and high-tech gadgets. The first round of presentations saw development on tables, bottles, and even bamboo holder! All simple, everyday products!

Therefore, I don't know what's wrong with me. As they presented, my mind went "Why didn't I think of that?" Oh gods.

It's like I can never beat that status-quo or think out-of-the-box. Perhaps, in a different surrounding, my creative juices will start to flow and I can get better. For now, I am stuck as a penguin.

The project is really getting on my nerves, along with everything else.

Tests are coming my way. Projects will have to be passed up soon. Only a couple of good things to look forward to. To read One Enchanted Evening and my friend's coming to town.

Fieldtrip & Shopping

On Saturday, 15th of May, the group went to the Singapore Philatelic Museum and Lau Pa Sat for our field trip. This was for the purpose of our Special Interest Tourism Project.

Overall, it was quite fun as this was my first time going to the Singapore Philatelic Museum. It was truly an eye-opener for me.

We then ate at Wendy's for lunch at Lau Pa Sat.

In the evening, the family except my mother went to Orchard Central and CentrePoint. It was sort of to celebrate my belated birthday again. Besides, I wanted to get clothes from Esprit as it's my birthday month and I get 20% off as a member.

We ate at this Ramen place which does not sell udon. And I saw this store called Jewels which sells beautiful chocolate pieces for an extraordinary price. They are almost art pieces! It's really cool though.

After which, we went over to CentrePoint where Robinsons is having sales. I wanted to bedsheets because I have only 1 at home. However, I didn't manage to get one due to I didn't know what is the size of my bed. Also, no design caught my eye. Oh well.

I went down to Esprit with my father. I did get 2 pieces of clothes. Why, oh why is Esprit so expensive in Singapore? I swear if I go to USA I will bring back lots of clothes.

We had ice-cream at Haagen Dazs.

Celebrating 19 Years

On 8th of May, Saturday, the family and I went to The Cafe Cartel at Marina Square. It was alright, I suppose. Nothing too special about it. I still prefer Swensens.

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Originally, I wanted to shop and had ice-cream or something, but because it's the exam season for my brothers, we had to get home for them to revise their work.

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See? For 10 years I have suffered on 10th May since my birthday always falls on exam season. To view it in another way, it means I can have extra good luck eh?

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Anyway, I hope that this week, my parents will be in a good enough mood for us to go out for ice-cream. I really want to go shopping at Esprit as I get to enjoy 20% off right now. It's a chance to get clothes at a discounted price.

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It's Mothers' Day on the 9th of May and since we celebrated it last week, this week we were supposed to bring 2 dishes from each family.

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My Aunt cooked chili crayfish, cockles and scallops. We bought black-pepper ribs and chicken. My other Aunt bought sushi. And not forgetting, a cake to celebrate my birthday and Mothers' Day.

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It was a divine chocolate cake! It's really smooth! I wanted to go for Awfully Chocolate but seeing that it requires ordering at least 3 days in advance and I'm lazy to do so, I'll have to pass. My Aunt bought this cake from Choc-A-Bloc which was just as lovely. It's completely a chocolate inside and out.
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At least things picked up on Sunday.
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So, I'm officially 19 now. Not much change is there? Age is nothing but a number. It doesn't mean everything changes when you turn one year older. Perhaps, though, you start to feel weary and wish for something extraordinary in your life.
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PS: a shout-out to those who wished me happy birthday! I truly appreciate it!
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C'est le Dix Mai

Bon Anniversaire à Moi!

Célébration de dix-neuf ans.
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Hooray! Things did pick up afterall! I'm quite the happy girl!
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I shall do a post on celebrating Mother's Day and my Birthday when I'm less busy.
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Le meilleur reste à venir (The best is yet to come)
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Cheers!
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18 going on 19

"The problem with a rat race is that even if you win the race, ultimately, you're still a rat"

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How true is that? I just love that quote. It's said by someone, I can't find the name, and is found inside the Strategic Entrepreneurship book.

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But, I rather be a winning rat than a loser who is a rat.

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Huh? 18 going on 19 and already wary (weary) of the world. With 2 days left to go, I can't help but feel squeamish.

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Don't everyone? As one gets older, uncertainty and insecurities set in. One realised that the world still turns even if you are left behind.

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Is 19 too young a age to notice these things and worry? I've always been the worrier and dreamer. I have lofty goals and dreams but with a side of practicability.

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I can't seem to get myself happy these days. Perhaps everything will change for the better when SIP ends. Then, I can get ready for the final leg and work on making my trip a reality.

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Honestly.

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Ahh well, got to get my act together. Didn't I come this far?

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3 more days to my Birthday!

At My Fingertips, Not

"The world is not enough"

Oh god, this is bad, very bad, indeed.

Today, I met a lecturer who taught Managing SME last semester, he asked me how was I and I replied OK. But, it's not alright. Next time someone ask me how am I, I'm so going to reply "Still surviving".

I asked him about the Internship and he said I was "pretty good in the listings" and if I write to the companies, I'll have a good chance of landing a post. Sigh, but that's not the point.

The deadline will be here soon, and this Internship business is driving me crazy. H***, I was not even thinking too much into it in the first place! When everything ends, I don't want to feel let down by my own decision or lack of.

I'm going to dissect his words. What did he mean by "pretty good in the listings"? So, am I better than the others but not quite there yet? Yes, that must be it. I need to push myself further, it seems. Still, I take it as a compliment. God knows when I ever receive one in all my school life.

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In Primary School, I was "Blah", in Secondary School, I was "Meh", then in Poly, something change. I'm not sure what. I was given a chance to shine and I did it unknowingly.

Speaking of past lecturers to my friend makes me think of some of what I considered the best teachers I had in the last semesters, namely Economics, Business Accounting 2, SME.

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Which brings me to another point, I'm not happy with the lecturers/tutors this semester. They are seriously boring and strict with no hint of lightness in them. It's like they exist just to go through the paces.

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Books & Buildings

Look at this lovely new book cover! I just went Woah! when I saw it. Clearly, it's Artane with that lovely strand of beach. Sigh.

Maybe, just maybe I may buy it for fun? Because this is not a new book at all, it contains 2 stories in one which I have already read before.

Yesterday, I made a trip down to Orchard with my brother to try my luck on getting my hands on One Enchanted Evening.

I knew Borders would not have it but I went to check it anyway. We bought drinks from Coffee Club and walked down to Kinokuniya at Ngee Ann City.

I was to make a reservation for the book. I didn't know know exactly what the person told me. She said that because it was the first time in print and just came out in the States, they don't know if their suppliers are getting the book or not. And they will contact me about it. But, it will take about 4 to 6 weeks for it to arrive.

What I am worried about is that I won't know it if they contact me on my phone. Last time, they called me twice and I didn't pick up because I was working. It was by sheer luck that I went down to check and found that my books had arrived.

I suppose I can recognise the number though. In my estimation, it won't take more than 2 weeks for the new book to arrive in Singapore. However, that goes my hope for ever getting it in time for my birthday.

See? That's why I lament living in a place far away from the happenings of the world, particularly USA. When there are good things going on, we're the "last" to receive it. If we ever want to learn more, we have to fly halfway across the world to get it with the air ticket being freaking expensive.

Yes, I know, there are advantages and disadvantages living in different countries.

Don't get me wrong. I do love Singapore. It's just that we are so backward in certain aspects, like entertainment. We may be ahead and con-current with world news but when it comes to entertainment matters, no way.

We can see it but we can't touch it. And it hurts.

After that, we took the Circle Line for the first time since its recent opening to Marina Bay. Boy, did we walk a long way from Promenade Station to Marina Square.

Met up with the rest of family at Dian Xiao Er for an early celebration of Mothers' Day.

Then, we walked down to The Helix. It's rather beautiful. Steel beams interweaving each other to form an overhead. As usual, there were lots of people all wanting to get a first look at the newly erected Marina Bay Sands.

It's just too bad that we didn't manage to get into the building since the narrow walkway was chock full of people and we ended up getting stuck. We did a U-turn and went back.

Ahh well, when everything officially open at June, we will go back.

We were all sweaty and tired. Actually, we wanted to have a drink at Coffee Club but there were no seats for us. We then went to Starbucks at Suntec City.

Went home afterwards and watched a few snippets of Lord of the Rings - The Return of the King. Even though I have watch it many times, I still can't get enough of the movie.

Breaking Dawn News

It's been confirmed!

Breaking Dawn, the last book in the Twilight Saga, is set to be adapted into a movie. At last! Whether it'll be spilt into 2 parts remains to be seen.

Who is the director for this? None other then Bill Condon, Oscars winner and nominee. Frankly, I've never seen movies he directed or screen-played so I can't say much about his style.

But we shouldn't pass judgement too quickly. We jumped on the bandwagon so fast the last time Chris Weitz was to be director for New Moon. There was so much ill-will going on and on and look what happened? Majority of the fans gave positive reviews for New Moon. The same goes for David Slade.

Breaking Dawn is a delicate matter though. There are just so many aspects of it that are potentially problematic and will fail big time if handled wrongly.

Renesmee will be one big problem to overcome and I can't wait to see the end result. Freaky CGI baby, we can all do without, seriously. And then, there's the issue on gore, blood, love and imprinting...

It's obvious that Breaking Dawn movie will not pass the PG-13 rating because of several issues, particularly Stephenie Meyer's.

Another wonderful news is that Stephenie Meyer will be joining on board the team as a producer! Wow, congrats! With the author herself on the team, fans can be more assured that her vision will be brought to life in the silver screen.

Indeed, the news about Stephenie Meyer joining in the producing of the film get more comments than the announcement of the latest director, which is kind of weird because based on my experience on the site, fans alike like to comment (good or bad) on directors or scriptwriters.

Woah, I can't wait! This is very exciting!

Of Internship

So, this is the second week of Semester 3.1.

Nothing much to say about it actually. Go to school, come back. Essentially, wash, lather, rise, repeat.

Oh right, the lecturers. Speaking about them makes me missed the lecturers of old. Seriously, this semester we just had to have the luck of getting lecturers/tutors who are strict, stern and old. Did I mention it? Sigh, what happen to jokes and lightness during classes?

Lecturers are mundane and make me sleepy. I have thought that I am cured by now.

Student Internship Programme is one big heartache and headache. It was understood that the best deal is to self-secure a posting on your own as you are in control. I guess given the connections I have, it's a no deal for me.

Besides, it's really a chore to do self-secure. Yes, yes, I really like the idea of doing a job I like for 11 weeks. But, there is always a "but".

What bothers me isn't the potential crappy post I can get from the school-posting system, that I can still grit my teeth and bear it. What bothers me is the allowance given during the stint. Obviously, when you self-secure, you can negotiate about the allowance and can find a post with a higher pay. On the other hand, when the school secure a post for you, you will have to deal with the lesser allowance.

Gahhhhh! I really need the money! Just imagine, if I have a pay of $700 for one month, that will be $2,100 in total. If not, I could end up with just $400 plus a month. The difference, is just so darn big!

With the extra cash, I can buy so much more stuff. Oh, the thought is almost too unbearable to think.

How I wish that someone in the family is working in some company that will allow me to do temporary work. If only, huh?

Think I'll just go with the flow. I think I can get through the stint pretty well. If I get some crappy post, I'll blame it on my luck then.

Of Clocks & Trailers

Hurrah for me! My countdown clock is finally up!

After much trials, over the weekend, I finally had it up due to sheer luck. There is still something wrong with the sharing of the html code. But, when I was browsing other widgets, I found this one whose code is still intact. I did my own customisation and voila! My countdown clock for Eclipse is out!

I may be changing the picture when I have the time. As much as I like this picture, I don't think the colour theme suits the overall feel for Eclipse the movie. It's way darker than what I have.

And it's just in time to commemorate the showing of Eclipse movie final trailer, which is way awesome!

It's all action in this trailer as compare to the romance in the first. The CGI and special effects are looking real good in the trailer. I love it! All things aside, the 2 minute plus trailer is sufficient for my thirst.

I can't wait to see David Slade's vision of Eclipse! Only hoping that it won't be that creepy, what with all the newborns rising from the waters like zombies.

Get this widget!

Blast of a Year

Holy Crow! I'm literally flirting with deadlines here.

It's only the second day and I'm feeling the pressure and stress that is in association with Year 3. "You are no longer in Year 2", to quote the lecturers. Well, obviously. But they expect greater things from us this time round.

If I thought Sem 2.2 was tough, honestly speaking, it seems like child play. Really. Looking back, I realised those were so much easier than what we are doing now.

2010 will pass soon enough. The tentative timetable is like this.

By July, we'll finish all projects. August will see us a one month study break/holiday due to the Youth Olympics Games. Thank goodness! First 2 weeks of September will be exams, then comes the Internship/attachment for 3 months. Around December, which will be well into Semester 3.2, the internship will end. Back to school for a couple of more subjects, then it's time to graduate.

This means that by February 2011(if I'm not wrong), everything will come to a close. Around April/May 2011, there will be a graduation ceremony, as it's happening now. Wow, to think that next year will be us. I'm going, of course. I wouldn't miss it for the world.

So, it's either I leave for my trip before or after the graduation ceremony.

Oh my god! This is insane! What a tight schedule to operate on! I don't think I can get myself into the mood of enjoying even my brithday.

The months and days will blend together so much so that I'll work myself up in a frenzy. As seen from the tentative dates above, technically, I'll have no holidays. So, it's just my luck that YOG is here this year and we get to have a break!

Fortunately, among this mess, there will still be simple pleasures in life. There are movie events, books release coming up that I can treat myself myself.

As for work, we'll see how that goes. I'm toeing a fine line by working and studying at the same time in such a crucial year. Where my priorities lie, of that I'm certain. Still, it'll be good if I can have cash by my side. God knows I need money for my coveted trip.

Tuesdays are going to be a bomb. I'll be leaving home early in the morning (7am) and only be back at (10pm plus). What a joke! Stupid arrangements.

I can still take it this couple of weeks, once the semester really starts, I'll have to decline any other work on other days.

This year is going to be blast. This year is the year where limits will be pushed and tested, where emotions will run high. All in all, I must get ready for an emotional rollar-coaster ride of a lifetime.

If I lose my sanity behind... prayers will be needed...

Le Premier Jour

"When Life gives you lemons, throw them back and demand something else"

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First day in school as a senior. Officially.
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Wow, it was a torture waking at 5.30am after a nearly 2 months hiatus. Naturally, buses were full of people but the bus I took had vacant seats.
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When I reached school, the front area near Engineering School had lots of people milling around. I bet most of them were first year students waiting for friends. It's quite funny though.
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Like my friend said, freshmen usually tend to stick around as a class for the first one month or so, and then they will start to spilt into their various groups and cliques.
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For us, we have "been there, done that". I'm quite desensitized.
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The situation in the canteens and buses are going to be bad for the first few weeks. There will be lots of students, all eager to make it. After the original first few weeks, attendance will drop and canteens will have vacant seats again. Not that I like canteen food.
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So, first day lecture was Event Management. I just found out that the month of August will be a holiday (study weeks) for us. It is due to the high participant rate in the Youth Olympics Games and the fact that the few week of September will be the examinations.
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Yay! All the more for me. I can treat it as a minor holiday before the day of reckoning.
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However, rather than cutting study materials short, I guess they squeeze all the syllabus before August. The deadlines for projects are certainly so. Oh boy, projects here and there. Have to start early.
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Well, that's that. Nothing to talk about actually. I'm glad to see my friends. One last year before everything changes. The debacle on JCs, Polys and Universities is making me very nervous and anxious. It's certainly a reality check for me.
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I know that going to University from a Poly route isn't going to be easy, but never have I thought it will be so tedious and difficult. I used to think that as long as I get good results, I can stand a fairly good chance of making it. Now? Not so much.
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I never think of stopping with a Diploma only from Day One. In my opinion, that's really not a choice if I want what I want. Each of us have different thinking, it's how you work it out that matters.
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In the past, I harbour thoughts and plans to go to an overseas University. I still do so, but I guess my dreams are going to crash. Going overseas is and still is my first choice for studies. If I can't make it this time round, there is always higher education like Masters. Then, I'll go overseas.
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At least, I have one year to work things out in my favour. I just need the strength and will-power to do that. If I am not changing now, when will I do so?
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Things aren't looking too good now. Life isn't a bed of roses, I know that. I just never thought that it will be a bed of steel needles. Sighs.
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Having work on Tuesdays and Fridays. Double Sigh.

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The End is Near

"The end is near"

Just over a day left for me. Then, it will be another year, another nerve-rending year. Darn you.

Only this time, it'll be different. There won't be another long holiday for me. I will literally become 'holiday-less' since there will be an internship soon.

I can see that I'll have a terribly "good" time this time round.

The train is leaving the platform, last call before all gates are shut. Will I be left chasing after the train or will I be sitting comfortably in the first-class cabin? Will I be a passenger or a worker or the driver? Will I be left behind in the last cabin or will I be in the first? Will the train take me to the place I want to go or will I be lost? Will the journey be smooth or be rattling?

So many may-bes and will-bes. Sighs. When did I become so melodramatic?

I can't let go of the past. Why?

It's not that I'm pessimistic. It's just reluctance to let go of good times.

Of Treasures & End

Today was quite the eventful day for me.

For one, I finally cleared and spiffed up my cupboards since years. It's on my to-do list this holidays, I just never got about doing it. Well, on this beautiful, last day as a free person, I did it.

I will give myself a pat on the back for a job well-done. I had this big bag full of papers and what not to throw away. In the midst of clearing, I discovered treasures from the past.

Can you imagine having diskettes still? Those should belong to a Museum of technology. Lots of mouse pads too.

I had uncovered diary entries that made me laugh in horror. Boy, was my spelling atrocious back then. It isn't exactly better now but all thanks to spell-check, I can ensure that what I wrote is proof-read.

Anyway, I can't bear to throw all my memories away. I just ripped off some of the notes that I did way back when I was in Primary School.

I had collected many news articles over the years. Those I can't bear to see them gone. Each and every one is important to me. Why else would I cut them out in the first place? Lots of Harry Potter related articles, posh cars advertisements that caught my eye, etc.

I did throw out those movie reviews I thought was bad taste. Pheesh, what I want are facts and news coverage, not some critical reviews which has absolutely nothing to do with what I like. If they don't like it, fine, I don't have to read what they have to say.

I vacuumed and wiped my tables.

I still didn't managed to spiff up everything. But the remaining potions will have to wait. Holidays are a-ending and I'll extremely not free.

Well, well, I am proud of myself having accomplished what I set out to do.

Besides cleaning, I arranged for a pedicure and haircut session as well. A new start for a new semester.

I tried something new this time. I went for a dark blue colour for my toes. It's pretty bold for me to choose this colour because I usually stick with pinks.

Alas, the polish was not completely dried and I hit my foot against the pedestal in the hair salon. Gone was my nicely painted toes. I really, really hated it...

Luckily, it was my toes instead of my fingernails.

Today was extremely wonderful as I don't have work! This is the crucial event that led to my arrangements.

The end is near.

Craptastic

Edited: Ok, after thinking it over and discussing it, I can accept the timetable for what it is. (I have to accept it, don't I? It's not as if I can change it.)

Darn it!

What a crappy timetable, at least in my opinion.

Waiting for the timetable is just as nerve-recking as wating for results. But, at least, for results, it's much more predictable and I can control it. Whereas for timetables, they're like lottery, you never know when you'll strike big time.

For 3 times a week, I have classes at 9am which means I have to wake up at 5.30am. Bloody Brilliant. On the other hand, I get to go home early on most days, except Wednesdays, classes till 6.00pm.

Thursdays and Fridays will be ending as early as 1.00pm, which makes it possible to go for work. Whoopidoo.

I'm going only for 2 days a week. So, it's either Thursdays, Fridays or Saturdays. I rather I be free on Saturdays actually. Or alternate days will be better as well. Damnation, I won't be coerce into making stupid decisions.

That teacher, again. I should have known. We must keep up our standards now.

Oh no, the very thing I wished for didn't come true! Why?! The teacher I wanted for Managerial Accounting 1 is nil. Noooo! Well, he's off teaching his Business Finance classes.

I could live with that, I suppose. With time, I could even learn to love it.

Taking Off & Timetable

Alright! Timetable for Semester 3.1 will be out by tomorrow 10.00am.
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I'm keeping my fingers crossed and praying that I'll get a brilliant one. What I want is good distribution of the subjects (going home early) and good lecturers/tutors. Please, please, please... -
If there really is a need to choose between the two, I will go for the latter. Please, I need someone real good and approachable for Managerial Accounting 1. Actually, I have a teacher in mind, let's just see if I have the good fortune to get him. I really want to get him...
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Well, I need some time off to go for work too. Can't believe I'm saying this huh? Shrugs. I need cash for my big plans.
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So, the ball is not in my court anymore. If tomorrow timetable proves to be great, the tentative title for it shall be "C'est bon". If not, then it shall be be "Craptastic".
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On Friday, 9th April, after work, the family went to Changi Airport to bid adieu to my cousin who was going to Taiwan for his army stint.
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Wow, the meeting place was filled with army boys and their loved ones. I heard that they will be having an SQ plane all by themselves.
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Their flight left at dawn.
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Before that, we went to McDonald's for supper. As we finished ordering and standing by the side to get our trays, someone spilled his hot beverages, all over us. The 3 of us, my cousin, brother and I, got scalded on the legs.
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At first, it was shocked. I thought that my brother was the one who spilled them. Turned out to be another guy. My brain didn't register the hotness at first. Actually, looking back, it didn't feel that scalding.
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But, there was tendrils of smoke wafting from the spilled drinks on the floor.
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Anyway, had our supper and we went to the meeting area. I bet the tourists must be wondering what was going on. It's almost midnight and there was this large group of people hanging about.
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In the end, we left just after midnight since I needed to wake up early the next morning.
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Not in Kansas

"Dorothy, you aren't in Kansas anymore"

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How true. It's my new favourite quote. It is versatile and can be applied to any circumstances. I think the meaning behind this quote is "wake up, darling, not everything is what it seems. The things you know of are changing and you have to move on."

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It's most certainly a love/hate relationship between me and education in general. I love to hate it, ranging from studies to going to school to homework etc. At the same time, I hate to feel affection for it. As I just couldn't do without it, can't I?

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Ever since Primary school, it has been repetitive. Holidays end, and I will lament over it. A school year ends, I too lament.

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Sighs, now I'm in Poly, you would have thought that I've wise up. If there is something that still remains, it's this.

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I can't believe I spend my time writing all these instead of posting what I already planned to post. There are a couple of pre-written drafts on topics I've been wanting to post. Yet, these words just flowed and flowed, especially at night.

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One another note, nothing like a look at other blogs and my own entries of the past to get a new perspective of stuff.

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I'm guilty of reading people's blogs, sometimes. It changes my view on things and allows me to reflect.

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I even read my past entries and cringe. Memories best remain as memories. Looking back, I wondered how I weathered through. A human is stronger than I expected.

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Well, well, this blog has exist for a long time, since I picked up the courage to start it. It exists mainly for my pleasure and an outlet to write and keep in touch with English. God knows I need it.

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Yes, over the months, I included slang and what not into my posts, but that's for certain. I live and breathe fanfiction for years. Generally, I hang out at fanfiction site and read those authors' stories.

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Alright, enough already, I should think.

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D for Denial

Denial with the capital letter D.

On the other hand, how can I be in denial when the facts are 'in my face'? I hardly doubt it's called denial at this stage. Sure, I am reluctant to let go and face the future, but I can't change facts, can I?

One last week of utter freedom and being a person with no heavy responsibilities. Time is passing as I typed. It's like after being let out for good behaviour, now, I'm back to the dungeons.

I've so much to do before school starts.

Slipping Through My Fingers

"Slipping through my fingers all the time, I try to capture every minute, the feeling in it"
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"I felt like someone had kicked my legs out from under me ... I was out of time. And I wasn’t ready."

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"Time passes, even for me"

All the days seem to have speed by without me. Looking back, I wonder at what I've been doing all these days.

You know it's time to start school when I starts to reminiscence about the good, ole days that is the holidays. Seriously, I can't seem to get ready for school.

Going back is like preparing for another battle. I can almost smell the need for victory, again. Of course, there is only a way forward and that is the only path to take. No cross-roads here. There is to be only one end. And that is for me to emerge as the victor.

I really, really don't want the time to pass so quickly. Yes, I have been granted almost 2 months of holidays, more so than many others. But, it seems as if I have not done many things constructive, huh.

I am like a jellyfish. Floating around all day and night. I go where pleases me. I can do what I like, when I like. I don't have to care about people judging me and pointing fingers. If I want to sleep the day away, I will because I can.

I literally hold time in my hands.

However, there is a sinister underplot, as I am controlling my time, time is controlling me as well. I'm standing on a ticking time-bomb. Sooner or later, the bomb will burst and I have to go back to reality.

Fantasy is good while it lasts.

I went back to read my previous posts, it seems as if it was still the first day of the holidays. Really. The days did speed past. I was still on the platform but the train has already left the station, with everything on it.

I live in the past, I must admit. I live for the future too. As for the present? I try my hardest to live for the moment.

Typing all these makes me think that there is something whacked about myself. Normally, I aren't this sort of person. Ahhh, who am I kidding? I'm always this sort. I like to overanalyse things, make myself all strung-up over tiny matters, lose sleep over them and start over again the next day.

There are only a few days in the year where this does not strike.

Lots of thoughts jumbled in my mind. I'll try my hardest to write them out.

Oh right. I might as well write this together with this post.

Working in a "tuition" centre, I realised that being the kids of today are quite pitiful actually. Myself included, I guess. But, they still have a long, long way to go.

As I get older, thoughts like these start to plague me. Higher education, career, money-matters, etc.

I wonder if I have the goods to make it in this world. I wonder if I'm good enough to survive in the corporate world. I wonder if I can get a good job and stay with it. I wonder whether I can fulfil my goals and dreams.

I guess we all have a hand in molding the future we want. But, life, there is just so much we can't control. Life is full of surprises and shocks, ups and downs. One day, you are top of the world, the next, you are nothing.

I just have an epiphany. Life is the greatest when you are young.

This is a short teaser, no doubt a grave one, leading to my 19th birthday. It's almost fore-boding...