The Olympic Spirit

Only 1 week to go before the new semester starts. Like I said before, basically, I'm just waiting for the other shoe to drop.

In other news, Singapore has won a bronze medal in the Olympics! It may not seemed that significant as compared to the feats achieved by other nations' athletes but it's still an occasion to cheer because this is only the second time a Singapore athlete won a medal in a singles event. Furthermore, it's after a 52 years drought.

Thank you, Feng Tianwei, for achieving this for Singapore! 

I'm not even going to comment on how some petty Singaporeans are questioning her "nationality" and other rot. I reckon this is what people call armchair cynicism. The question is not what the country has done for you but what have YOU done for the country.

When was the last time you did something to make the country proud of you? When was the last time you bring hundreds/thousands of people to their feet and inspire them? It's pathetic how this "jealousy" is so prevalent in today's society.

I'm not sporty. But, I can appreciate an athlete's hard work and dedication. I admire them in the way they achieve their goals and more.

If there's to be something relevant to take away from the Olympics, it is that it is a good time for self-reflection.

Many of these athletes are in their teens to the late 20s. Where was you when you were 18 years old, when some have walked the Olympic Stadium and won their first gold? Where do you think you will be when you reach 25 years, when some are already retiring from their long yet successful career?

For some of these athletes, they are considered legends by their countries, mere humans like us can only hope to get a taste of it.

Lovely July

Today is the last day of July, a bittersweet ending.

August will herald in the new semester where I'll be a Year 2 undergraduate. Am I ready? Not in a million years.

So, in this entry, I shall bid adieu to July, a very lovely month, where the Olympics is taking place and I am fortunate enough to catch lots of events on television.

Olympics on Holidays

I love the Olympics. I love holidays.
Therefore, to be able to catch so much action of the Games for the first time ever is like a dream come true. I'm free to do what I like whenever I want. It's really fortunate that I get to stop working during this period too.

Alas, dark clouds are looming on the horizon, for the day the Olympic Games end in London is the last day of my summer holidays. It's so apt, isn't it?

But for now, I intent to cherish whatever little time I've left to make merry and be happy.

London Olympics Opening Ceremony

Breath-taking. Magnificent. Gorgeous. Beautiful. Spectacular.

All those adjectives above describes what the London Olympics Opening Ceremony is like. It's truly a wonderful tribute to all things British - from the sprawling countrysides to the Industrial Revolution to the swinging sixties to beloved British fictional characters. It is a gigantic party!

This is a ceremony that showcases and celebrates the beauties of London, its rich history and culture, at the same time, incorporating the British sense of humour. The country has contributed so much to the various industries.

Film director Danny Boyle deserves a salute for orchestrating the whole event -Isle of Wonder. This ceremony is really incomparable because it was just a league of its own. Who else has a parachuting "Queen"?

I especially love the segment that features Queen Elizabeth 2 with James Bond actor, Daniel Craig. "Good evening, Mr Bond". She is truly a great sport! I enjoyed Rowan Atkinson's cameo as Mr Bean as well.

The formation of the Olympic Rings with "red, hot iron" is exceptionally memorable as with the lighting of the cauldron. It was a break from tradition with 7 young athletes lighting the flame at the same time.

I'm not a British subject but I did get that warm and fuzzy feeling seeing the success of the opening.

I love reading the tweets from Britons themselves because they are true testimonies of how proud they are.Yes, there may be complaints, grouses and unhappiness, but I think, when the Games are truly underway, it is the time to stand together as a nation and celebrate this glorious moment. Be proud of how far the nation has come and what it has achieve.

Happy Olympics Day

Happy Olympics Day!

Only 4 more hours to go before the London Olympics Opening Ceremony 2012 opens with a bang!

One Day to London 2012

Only 1 day left to the London Olympics 2012! I've waited 4 years for this and I've been anticipating it since April.
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It may be weird for someone who live such a sedentary lifestyle to have such enthusiam for the greatest sporting event, but hey, that's that. I've always been interested in high-profile events since I was young; entertainment events, sporting events, you name it. Perhaps, I know that it is nigh to impossible for me to go to these events that makes me longed them even more. One day, I tell myself, I will go to Comic-Con and the Olympics, amongst other things.
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I'm always excited for the Games but this time more so than ever, because it's held in London, UK. I can be considered an Anglophile. I love the British culture and (some) traditions. I love its long line of talented authors and actors. I like its long history and monarchy. I especially love the accent! Besides, London is one of my favourite cities in the world, and I look forward to the day I get to take a vacation there.
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The opening ceremony takes place at 4.00am (Singapore Time) on Saturday. As much as I'd like to watch this direct telecast, I love my sleep more than anything and I've to go work. I can only contend myself with watching the encore at 6.00pm.
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I can't wait to see what surprises Danny Boyle has in store for viewers. Despite leaks from the ceremony, nothing beats watching it in entirety to fully experience the grandeur and magnificence.

Master in Procrastination

This is the last week of July and I'll miss the summer holidays. I've approximately 2 weeks of holidays left and I intend, must, make the most out of it.

 I still have tasks left undone after putting them off for so long. What can I say, except that I'm a master procrastinator. To be honest, this word does not exist in my dictionary because I think everyone procrastinate from time to time. After all, tomorrow is such a beautiful word.

My lovely, carefree summer days will soon be replaced by stormy seas and chilly Autumn winds. Sometimes, I asked myself whether going to the University is such a chore and I often found it to be true. But, I wouldn't trade it for anything else, well, maybe for happy times.

I'm just waiting for the other shoe to drop, that's all.

It's Rather Fine

The year 2012 is shaping out to be a rather nice year, isn't it? Studies aside, 2012 is a year filled with promises and exciting events.

Of course, Sherlock series 2 premiered in the UK in January, and I managed to watch them all. The London Olympics is just around the corner and while I'm always interested in the Games, this time round it is a larger dosage of anticipation. This is probably due to it being held in London, one of my favourite cities, with the additional love for it from British TV influence.

Near to the end of the year, there'll be two hugely anticipated movies - Breaking Dawn Part 2 and The Hobbit: The Unexpected Journey.

I'm more drummed up over The Hobbit, naturally. The leading character (Bilbo Baggins) is played by Martin Freeman, an exceptional actor and the John Watson to BBC's Sherlock. My love for The Hobbit has increased and became more "personal", because the actors from Sherlock co-starred in the production as well. How can I be expected to just look on with detached interest?

A note to myself, I've to go to the annual Comic-con one of these years. The temptation is just too great and I feel that I'm losing out so much of the awesome stuff that is happening in the entertainment industry. This year's convention is obviously marvellous since I've so much interest in the movie offerings. Gods, I've missed out...

Pay Rise

I'm getting a pay rise starting from August. It's actually not a lot, but any increment is better than none at all.

I'm currently getting $5.50/hour and it shall be increased to $5.80/hour. I was thinking along the lines of $6.00, to be honest. Oh well. It just means that I'll have slightly more cash to save and maybe, spend.

Anyway, by August, what with the new semester starting, I'll be back to working for 2 days in a week.

Time in a Bottle

Why?!

If only Time can slow down.

The arrival of July means it's nearly time for August and then I'll be back in classes, again. The problem is I've grown too use to all carefree and decadent days.

Everything is Sherlock

and everything hurts...

Pardon me for all the Sherlock "feels". It's extremely intense today seeing as I was completely caught by surprise when I realised that Sherlock series 1 premieres in Singapore tonight.

This is the moment I've been waiting for since I got hooked on the TV show. Finally, this glorious moment arrives in Singapore, after nearly 2 years since it debuted in the UK and nearly 1 year since I first watched it. I must say, I'm terribly pleased I discovered it way before it became so cool.

Sherlock is a testemony of how beautiful TV can be if effort is put in. It is a high quality show celebrating the brilliant minds of the crew and the fine acting of the best calibre of British actors. This is a TV series that showcases British style and identity and contains an element of charm missing in mainstream TV nowadays. It pays tribute to one of the finest authors (Sir Arthur Conan Doyle) and yet manages to weave in enough originality to make this show an absolute treat.

And so it shall be, tonight, at 11pm, I will rewatch this lovely series again, even though I've rewatched A Study in Pink over and over again.

End of June

Le sigh. It's now the end of June and I'm dreading going back to the University. It is as in these time of fun and decadence, I've forgotten what it is like being an undergraduate.

This June, I've been clocking more hours than it is healthy (for me) in the workplace. Well, I need and want the extra cash where possible. I have to seize the oppotunity to earn more money so that I can have an easier time when it is needed.

I'm not saying I hate the job. Oh, how the mighty has fallen. I just dislike spending my precious holidays on work when I can do better things.

Fun

Yesterday was fun. It has been ages since we went out together and just have fun. Even though I can't change my phone yet (have to wait till September!), it was still a good day.

I got another Angry Birds plush toy - an orange bird! We had ice-cream at Cold Stone and my brothers got to upgrade their phones to an iPhone 4S and Samsung Galaxy W. Oh well, it's only another 3 more months for me and I am thinking of getting the S3 or S2. We shall see when the time comes.

I finally stepped inside H&M for the first time since its opening, although I didn't get anything from there.

Time is a-wasting

I'm a little guilty and ashamed to be wasting my time during this holiday but hey, this is probably the only chance I'm getting.

June is almost coming to an end and it's really a pity I didn't put in enough effort to maintain this blog or do anything remotely constructive. At the very least, I've a part-time job.

I kind of dread July because it means that my happy time will be ending soon. I really dread going back to the lather, rinse, repeat procedure of University life.

Volunteering

On Saturday, I volunteered my service to an old folks' home in a joint effort to beautify the place. The project is conducted by the volunteering committee from the University.

A few months ago, I made a decision to do some volunteer work and I did. Once I made up my mind, I don't expect to retract it. It doesn't matter much if I went alone, of course, I did wish that I've friends whom I can chat with. But, you can't always be together with your friends and you can't hold back what you want to do because you don't have friends around. I believed that one cannot expect to work around the schedules of others all the time.

It was a one-off project so there is less of a commitment for me.

By the middle of the day, I was all worn out from the stencilling and painting. In words, it seemed so easy since it was only painting. Well, let me tell you, it is not just painting. It is squatting down and painting around the designs stencilled on the bottom half of the walls. There's also the lining the tiles and windows with masking tape and newspapers and white-washing the walls. My legs had gone all wobbly at the end and I can hardly walk up or down the stairs without experiencing sharp bursts of pain. My back hurts too.

Yes, I could have sat down and paint and I did, occasionally. It's just that the floor is lined with newspapers with splotches of paint on them. Besides, one always have to haunch the back to fill in the paint nicely.

Overall, it was a good enough experience even though it was tougher than I thought. There is a good chance that I will do it again next year so that it could be more consistent.

I've my own motives for wanting to do volunteer work and it's not all that innocent about merely wanting to help the less fortunate. I need something to boost myself with.

Good Omens book review

Once every while, one will have the good fortune to find hidden gems amidst the mountains of books published and available in the market each year. When you do, sit back, relax with a cuppa and while your time away with the good read.

Good Omens by Neil Gaiman and Terry Pratchett is one such gem. It has been published for more than a decade and in terms of picking it up, I'm late in every sense. However, I can take heart that an adaptation for a television series is coming up in 2013.

I caught wind of it when I was reading Sherlock fanfiction and chanced upon Sherlock/Good Omens crossovers. These fanfictions are truly lovely featuring the Sherlock characters as angels/devils on Earth. Hence, I now have to track down this "elusive" novel. I placed a reservation in the library and voila!

The novel is an absolute treat and deliciously witty. It is exactly my cup of tea when it comes to books - a hint of sarcasm and wit with lots of brilliant ideas. I find myself bursting into laughter at the 'ridiculous' stuff made up by the very human-boy Antichrist - tunnelling Tibetans, Atlantians with diving gear and raining fish creatures.

Good Omens is described as a quasi-parody and touched on topics such as the Apocalypse, angels, demons, Good, Evil, Heaven, Hell and witchcraft. I'm not particularly religious so it's perfectly fine for me to read such things written in such a light-hearted manner. But, I can imagine some (overzealous) people being touchy over it.

I highly recommend it to those who appreciate witty dialogue and comical characters.

Grades for Semester 1.2

I don't have Cs. I've just got one (for now). And it is enough to last a lifetime. That's a bad example of using Sherlock's quotes, isn't it?

The results for Semester 2 came in today and while I've always been rather calm since the end of the examinations, I must admit that I'm disappointed at getting a C for Methods in Geography. Does that mean that my final exam is really that bad? Maybe I was pulled down by the B- I got for the project.

Regardless of what, I don't want to speculate too much or get too affected by it. Cest la vie. Sometimes, you can't always get what you wanted.

For Water and the Environment, I received a B. The 60% of projects really helped a lot. For Lifespan Development, it was a B-, slightly shocking because I thought I will do better. For Southeast Asia studies, I received a B+, quite expected, seeing as I was the most confident for that exam.

That concludes one year of studies in University. Seeing the results bought a relevation for me, I realise my standards are at the level-1000 modules. Perhaps as this is my first time ever taking level-2000 modules, I did not know what to expect or overestimated my limits. I will buck up when the year 2 comes along. There shall be no more slacking off unnecessarily.

Pinch

One will only feel the pinch when one is spending one's own money. It's the holidays which means that the pocket money has ceased and I'm "living" on my savings. Thank goodness I have a part-time job or else the situation will be worse.

After spending a sum on painting stuff and books, I have to earn back what I spent. As much as I hate working for longer hours, 4 days a week, I've not much choice. If I want to have the autonomy to buy what I want, then I've got to work for it, isn't it?

It's the third week of the summer holidays and I'm slacking at home, which is good as it is what I want and have been dreaming of. When else is there a chance for your brain to shut off completely? This is what I call a holiday; less worries with less burdens and full relaxation. I have more control of how I want to spend my time and my activities, which more or less means sitting in front of the laptop.

Unfortunately, there's no plans of going overseas this holiday. Else, it would have completed my goals. I'm 21, and I've yet to fulfil my goal (going to Florida).

I guess I have shifted my perspective a little. It's still on my agenda but now I'm more interested in Europe, in particular, England. This interest is of course, brought on by my love for Sherlock (BBC) and the upcoming Summer Olympics. The places which were shot in the series look inviting and beautiful. It is inevitable that people are going to gain awareness about London from these 2 events.

Celebrations

This came a bit too late but oh well.

I officially celebrated my birthday last Saturday with a dinner at Bosses at Vivocity. It has been such a long time since we went there.

On Sunday, I got to celebrate at my cousin's house with Awfully Chocolate cake, pizzas and KFC. Yes, I realised this is the 3rd year I had a cake from Awfully Chocolate. I'll change next year on.

I know that people usually have a obligatory 21st birthday party but I'm not like others, right? Parties are not really my area or my division. I will feel so awkward being the center of attention. So, no thanks.

On Monday, since it was holiday in lieu for my brothers and I am on holidays anyway, the parents took a day off and we went to catch The Avengers on IMAX at Shaw Lido.

The movie is really awesome! I'm not someone who really like action-packed movies but The Avengers is an exception. Perhaps, I just have more interest in certain heroes movies than other superheroes, say Superman or Batman. To be honest, I think a strong motivator for my liking is the share of good-looking actors in it. Lots of girls certainly thought so.

I added a couple of new charms to my Pandora bracelet. I chose a blue swirly Murano glass bead and a red enamel poppy flower bead. Actually, I wanted to get a flower dangle but it costs too much. Maybe, I will get it later on. Maybe, I will change my leather bracelet to a silver one. All these could only happen when I get my pay so I have to grit my teeth and put in more hours during this holiday.

I already received my traditional gift, a key, from the parents. It is a heart-shaped key pendent, made from rose gold with two little diamonds from Lee Hwa Jewellery. I usually prefer silver jewellery but because there was a lack of designs from the silver collection, I chose to go with rose gold instead.

All in all, I'm extremely grateful to have "survive" for this long and cheers to many years to come. I once told myself that I have to live till I manage to visit the countries I like.

21st Birthday

Source: A Study in Pink

Today, I celebrate 21 years in existence. Today, I reach a milestone in Life.

Of course, there is still a long way ahead for me.

One more day to my birthday!

Summer Time

It's finally SUMMER!!! In this joyous occasion, I think it is a must to insert 3 exclamation marks to show my obvious elation.

The finals are said and done. It felt like eons ago since I sat for the papers on Wednesday. My mind have been blissfully blank from then. Truth be told, I cannot recall what I've studied for the exams.

In the morning, I had to deal with Methods in Geography. The definitions section was good, the memorisation paid off. Section B was tough and Section C was ho-hum. Hopefully, I will be able to do ok.

In the afternoon, I'd a paper on Lifespan Development. I'll never arrange for 2 exams in one day again. Seriously. It is enough to stress anyone to tears. Can you imagine the feelings that while the rest of the students were cheering and going home, you have to get ready for the next exam? That is pure torture. Not to mention, the stress it puts on your brains. It's like taking an adrenaline shot, twice.

Anyway, I've never been more relief for "mid-life crisis"! I think, in same dark corner of my mind, I've known that this topic will come out after a not-so-subtle hint by the lecturer. But one can never be too sure about this kind of matter. The 60 MCQs were more or less alright, I supposed. Some choices made me laugh though.

So, that concludes the summary and the first year of my miserable life in University. Time does pass so shockingly fast.

This is my first summer holiday and of course, I can do what I want and relax.

Come What May

I am not ready but the show must go on. I will face the herculean task of completing two exams tomorrow and live to tell the tale.

I can only hope I'll do it reasonably alright, just a B, and that's that. Summer holidays, here I come!

Can't Deal

What was I thinking when I thought I could handle two exams on one day, one after the other?!

I wasn't sane. I must be mad.

After last semester, you would have thought I'd wise up, but no. Oh god, no. A series of circumstances caused me to make this "stupid" choice and now I am paying the price for it.

How can I memorise both Methods and Lifespan Development at the same time?! My brain isn't built for this!

On the other hand, once Wednesday is done, I am throwing out the books, figuratively. It will be party time and I intend to slack all day, everyday at home and gorge myself on Tumblr and fanfiction. I am going to paint and read again. I'm going to watch movies and go out again. I'm going to drown myself in TV shows.

Oh, in the midst of all the grousing and angst, let's not forget my birthday is right around the corner. I'll be 21 and I guess I've to be more mature, maybe.

The Fall

Source: Sherlock - The Reichenbach Fall

This is me, right now. 

Conquered the World

Yesterday I conquered the world, tomorrow the solar system.

It's tomorrow! I'll find out how well I've studied the bane of my semester tomorrow. I'm not even asking for an A, just B will do. It should be easy enough right?

Sometimes, I wonder what would happen if I take a gamble. You know, not to study that hard and go for the exam. What would happen? What will my results be? Atrocious, no doubt. If I suck even when I studied my socks off, I would be a failure if I don't even try at all.

One thing I like about a morning exam is that you will get less time to do final revision. You will have less time to worry about last minute details and just "What the heck, let's do this".

Why am I always so pathetic during the exam season?

40 marks, 40 percent

It's considered the last day of the study week and what have I done? I've finished one subject: Water and the Environment.

I think it's still alright, even though I could have move faster.

I seriously hate this limbo between hell and heaven. Hell being the exams, obviously. I think I rather it be a quick "death" than to let it drag on. So, c'mon already, I'm almost ready to tackle the paper. But, alas, the exam is one week from now.

40 marks. 40 percent. There's no stopping them now.

I think I'm going to die

"Molly, I think I'm going to die" - Sherlock

Yes, I think I'm going to die, whilst preparing for exams.

Exams are a big part and I dare say, the only important part of school life. Let's be honest, what do we go to school for if not to do well for exams? Unless they change the whole system (minus the exams), I will stick firmly to my belief, thank you very much.

From the beginning of your school life, it has always been preparing for all kinds of tests and exams, is it not? Even in University, there's mid-semester tests and finals to fret over. You would think that University is more than testing people over how good their memory is, but no.

It's so unfair how 2 hours can more or less determined how "good" a student you are.

Ordinary

It's the last day of the semester which means that I'm one week away from the final examinations. The bad thing being I've been procrastinating for the past 2 weeks.

Can I freak out now? Exams never fail to send me into hyperventilation despite more than a decade of so-called "experience" in it. Things change, people change.

In fact, the older one gets, the higher one climbs, the further one will fall and the higher the stakes are. In primary and secondary schools, the worst scenario a student can get is get a red mark in the report card. You still get to carry on. Honestly, I can't imagine the disgrace if you fail in University. You could be kick out, for goodness sake!

I made a sane choice to go for 4 modules this semester. It hardly matters than I am prolonging my stay in the University for half a year. Oh well, the deal has always been 3 years, and thus, 3 years it shall be. As for Honours, I don't even want to think about it now because I have no great aspirations at this junction.

In Poly, I was constantly driven by the want and need to do exceptionally well because I have to get into a University. I simply cannot imagine myself working full-time so soon. Having a degree means the world to me, not only does it looks good (for the family and I), it also means higher pay.

In terms of workload, this semester is relatively lighter than last semester. I admit that I slack through the first half of the semester. I'm feeling the guilt now.

I made the wrong choice by choosing Water and the Environment. Seriously, the maths and calculations portion is a turn-off. I can't believe the bane of my existence has come to haunt me in this form. Why in the world would I want to know how to do integration?! Oh god, I am going to die over this exam! It's only 40% which means that I should aim to pass, that's all. I simply cannot wait to get it over and done with. Good riddance to rubbish.

Sometimes, I couldn't help but to wish that I have talents in other areas. That way, I wouldn't have to put all my hopes into one basket. I wouldn't have to put so much heart and mind into academics and what rot. I'm not that artistic, musical or even athletic. I don't even like sports.

I'm ordinary. "You're ordinary" as Moriarty scoffed at Sherlock.

Less Than a Month

Thank goodness it's April. It means that in less than a month time, I will be enjoying my first "summer holiday". I can almost taste the freedom. I gave myself a week of hiatus to have fun online before the tough job of preparing for the finals. Sigh, examinations. I abhorred exams.

In a month time, I will be celebrating my 21st birthday which is not exactly a big deal in Singapore.

Well, technically, you are an adult and sure, you will be eligible to vote. But mentally, I am not and don't relish being one. There's nothing great about being an adult other than the fact that you can book a hotel and tours. I can officially go on holiday trips on my own but as if I could do so.

I do know what I want as my present though. I am going to buy more charms for my Pandora bracelet after waiting for a year.

I won't be holding the 'obligatory' birthday party because it is not my kind of thing. I will probably regret it when I am older but hey, why do something you don't feel comfortable with? It's not as if I have lots of friends I can invite anyway. It's sad but true.

For now, I just want to get the finals over and done with and get ready to welcome May (and the holidays) with open arms. I have so many plans for the holidays. It's just too bad that I won't be able to go overseas. Please, let there be a miracle.

In which I talk about Fandoms

I'll be honest about why I am reluctant to watch what is now known as the "hottest blockbuster" of the year. The last thing I want is to get stuck in another fandom-war.

I'm already sick of reading all those articles and comments comparing this franchise with another successful movie franchise. Why do people like to compare and pit the fandoms against each other? It's almost like they are doing it with glee watching the fans fight verbally. I have seen some pretty ghastly and nasty remarks during the "infamous" Harry Potter fanbase hate everything Twilight. It's still going on but on a more subtle scale.

That's part of the reason why I decided to drop out of the scene. The childish behaviour of people who should know better put me off. I still get excited over Harry Potter matters and still considered myself as an avid fan, but I'm much less active in other areas such as reading forums and stuff. In a way, I've moved on.

Of course, there's a part of me who feel indignant at the blatant way people insult the whole Twilight phenomenon, from the fans to the author to the books to the movies. To be fair, I did enjoy the books tremendously because I found it quite well-written despite all the naysayers. I did like the romantic aspect and the idea of the supernatural living amongst us.

It's fine if one doesn't like it. But to go to the extent of insulting everything on sight and making it the butt of the joke is going too far. It's one thing to hate a book/movie and another to degrade the author or the fans.

Anyway, I'm glad that this movie franchise is ending because I wish the uproar would die down.

I'm trying to put the young adults genre behind me and move on to better stuff like classics and fanfiction. Besides, I'm still relatively new to the Sherlock fandom and am having too much fun to join another fandom. It's most enjoyable with fans that are mostly pleasant and talented. Most of all, I love how the actors and writers are able to chat/troll with fans. It's almost like a closely-knitted family and this makes it wonderful.

Hottest blockbuster, maybe. I am counting on The Hobbit to topple the record though. Shhhh.

Surviving March

These past few days have been horrible. My aim is to survive March first before thinking about April.

I've been going to school in the morning and coming back home in the late afternoons for 3 consecutive days. I've never been this weary before.

This Friday, I will bid goodbye to one of the projects and hopefully, scored a good grade for it because it has been plain tiring doing it. This is definitely one of the most annoying projects I did so far. It get even worse with less than stellar group members.

Next Friday, I will hand up my last project which is also a pain to complete. Up till now, we are still entering data. I can't believe it.

What these 2 projects have in common is that they are vague. It's free rein and you have to come up with the scope yourself. Perhaps for some people, this comes as a blessing as one can be creative. This is true for me in Poly, we can set up whatever business you want and justify it. But not so in University.

One thing I realise about University modules is that they are so research-based and boring as h***. Nothing fascinates me. Yes, professors dedicate their time on researches to make this world a better base but I find it so stuffy and academic (in the bad way).

Sigh, talking about my "past life" makes me sad. Would it be better if I'd just choose a different path or will it be worse? I would never know since I can't travel back. But, you've got your troubles and I've got mine. So, let's not say whether my grousing and complaints are justifiable.

Famdom is my way of Life

Fandom is a way of life.

I like the sound of that, very much. I've been part of different fandoms for a long time. The most prominent three fandoms I belonged or used to belong to are "Potterheads", "Twilighter" and recently, "Sherlockians". I refused to use the term "Twihard" because it doesn't represent the spirit of the original fandom.

Indeed, for all budding fandoms, I think original fans who have been there since the start have it tough with all the attention and newcomers. Once something gets famous and a cultish-fanbase grows, there's no stopping it and let's be honest, suddenly everyone wants in or proclaimed themselves to be "true fans".

The problem with the new found attention is that it tends to attract all kinds of unpleasant people who do not understand what boundaries are.

It's the situation Sherlockians are facing now and it will be worse in the future. I understand that awareness is great because it means people are spreading the word but that magical feeling is gone, isn't it?

That's what happen to the Twilight fandom. I still love the books and will still watch the last movie when it comes out, but I've lost my passion due to all the (mostly bad) publicity and influx of "immature fans". The original spirit is gone, majority of them are just gushing over the movies and not the books.

It's like having a limited edition bag which is so dear to you and the next moment, you see everyone on the street carrying it. The special feeling is gone and the bag has become another ordinary accessory.

That being said, I wasn't part of the Sherlock fandom since its start in 2010. I was late in every sense as I only heard about the TV show in June 2011 and was only properly introduced to the fandom in December 2011. Still, I feel as if I belonged. The fandom is great and glorious, full of wonderful and talented people who make awesome fanart and write interesting fanfiction.

But when something grows in awareness and gains momentum, fans will have to deal with unwanted attention too, from haters and unsavoury fans. It's a double-edged sword.

In the fandom world, I would be considered a "lurker". I know the inside jokes, the good fanfictions, the fanvideos etc but I have never interact much with the other fans. It's both a choice and circumstance.

Oh well, it is out of my hands. I will bask in the glory of this fandom for as long as the spirit remains. It's a long wait for series 3 anway.

Ridiculous in the name of the "Greater Good"

Reading this on a brand new day is a mistake because it totally spoils my mood now. I'll likely be brooding about this for days, even though brooding accomplishes nothing.

This is getting ridiculous. Why must they build a hawker centre right on the piece of green patch left in Yishun? And why must it be right in front of my house? This makes it hard to stomach, oh look, I make a pun.

Yishun is turning fast into a concrete jungle and is going to be no different from all the towns in Singapore. I loathe it for what it is becoming to be. There is no "special feeling" anymore. The sense of identity is gone.

While I am on this point, the large trees in Yishun Park were fell and along with them, down came the white-bellied sea eagles' nest. I lamented about it for days but what can I do? Write a letter when the matter was already done?

Yes, so the government do caters to what residents want. But, what about those that veto against this construction? Do we have no say at all? I doubt that all the residents are consulted before this decision is made.

I used to pride myself for being loyal to the leading party in Singapore because overall, they did do a great job. But, recently, the onslaught to kill what is left of Yishun makes me so angry and frustrated.

Does that mean that the opposing party will gain another follower? I'm afraid, no. Unless they can  protect more greenlands and slow down the development, I see no reason to change sides. It is not as if they will have an alternative.

I understand that there will always be collateral damage. This leads me to another point, I admit having the NIMBY Syndrome. Don't most of us, if not all? Will you be happy if your backyard has to make way for the "greater good"? Can you be sure you will agree with the decision to build a nuclear plant right in front of your doorstep?

Am I having the defeatist attitude as well? Perhaps. You tend to have it in Singapore. What can you do but to accept the "greater good"? It's the same for Bukit Brown, isn't it? It is everything to do with progress, pragmatism and the need to rise to world stage. We can never afford something as simple and luxurious as a green patch of land without some development on it.

At the very least, it is not a twelve-storey HDB which will completely block any view. I shudder to think the thought of looking into another's bedroom. At the very least, it is probably just a one-storey building that will cause traffic problems, pest problems (roaches and rats!), noise pollution, hygiene problems and that nasty smell that will stick to your clothes.

The thought of moving away to the countryside suddenly seems so appealing. Perhaps, I need to get away from Singapore for a few months, if not years when I'm older just to get away from the urbanisation.

John, what John?

I think enough have been said on the news whereby CBS decided to change John Watson into a Joan Watson with the recent casting for their re-make of Sherlock Holmes set in modern time, in New York no less.

We'll see whether this remake will flop or not, won't we? If it does, Sherlock fans will be laughing. If it doesn't, then it's all fine. It's not as if the BBC original version pales in comparison or will lose their revenue to them. The BBC version will always be in the hearts and minds of devoted fans.

The first thing I thought of when the cast was announced was "wow, it's like fanfiction coming true". They even used the first name, Joan, which is what most fanfic writers go for when they create a female Watson.

The demographics has already shifted 180 degrees. From what I've seen, this programme will be targeted at more conservative, older Americans who will frown at a platonic bromance or any underling sexual tension, so as to speak.

Like so many other Sherlock fans, I do find it atrocious and silly, on so many levels of wrong basically but I doubt I will be getting myself up in a tizzy over it. This post is more for my reference than for anything else.

Of all the direction for originality the team could take, they choose this. Many people have said that it was because they and the audience couldn't deal with any sort of ambiguous relationship that may arise between Holmes and Watson. To make it more acceptable to the general public, they made this radical move.

Why must people always be afraid of homosexual undertones that everything has to become heterosexual just to have a romance?

I've seen a great quote somewhere that goes something like this, "it is easier to fake sexual chemistry than platonic chemistry" which is quite true. By having a female Watson, it changes everything. The possibility of a romantic relationship between Holmes and female Watson will almost be cemented, won't it?

Furthermore, it just spoils the direction Arthur Conan Doyle took with his books. The whole essence of Sherlock Holmes is the friendship and loyalty between Sherlock and John, two housemates with two very different personalities. The relationship dynamics between the two is crucial in the development.

I will probably try it out for the laughs provided I could access the programme in the first place. If it's really funny and ridiculous as people made it out to be, it will be more fun.

Happy Leap Year 2012

Happy Leap Year! It's 29th February 2012 and since it is a special day that only occurs every 4 years, I would like to take this opportunity to write up this post to commemorate.

Besides, it is supposedly my grandmother's adopted birthday although we do celebrate every year.

Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy movie review

I'm glad I went out with a friend on Saturday and I'm even more glad that I went to watch Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy. From what I have gathered, viewers either love or hate the film so I was in a bit of of a conundrum. Furthermore, the rating was in M18 for "sexual scenes" so I was nervous as well.

However, I'm happy that I went because I did enjoy this Oscar-nominated movie. Yes, it was a slow-burning, non-action spy thriller. It's completely different from what one would get from mainstream Hollywood slap, chase, bang spy films. For one, this is British, and we all know that there is something magical about British-made products. This film is intelligent but mind-boggling, I've to admit. You never know who the mole is until the end.

Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy features the creme de la creme of British actors, both veterans and rising stars, who showcase their superb acting skills. Gary Oldman was stellar in his performance as the world-weary, retired MI6 agent. Benedict Cumberbatch was, of course, brilliant as Peter Gulliam, Gary Oldman's protege. I can't help smiling seeing him act in a completely different role. The cinematography is lovely as well, since this was supposed to be in the Cold War period.

I've never read the book by John le Carre before and it was because of Benedict Cumberbatch that I was even interested in this film. I know, I sounded shallow. But sometimes, one need incentives to start something. I am very much "involved" in Sherlock fandom right now and I do find the men of Sherlock very attractive, hence, it is my goal to catch as many of their productions as possible. TTSS just happen to come along and is the most recent production that features the leading character.

As for a M18 rating, Singapore set a too-high bar for it. Sexual scenes? I think they meant sexual scene, as in one. And for that matter, it wasn't even in-your-face. If the M18 rating has to account for anything, I would say it's for the bad language and the few scenes of "gore". I felt more uncomfortable watching blood being splattered than the supposedly "sex".

I'm happy that I managed to get a friend to watch it with me because it is difficult to find people who can appreciate sophisticated films. It's true. Many would think that it's money wasted if there isn't action scenes in it. Why would one want to fall asleep in the cinema? Therefore, it came as no surprise when the demographics in the small theatre leaned towards older Caucasians.

Overall, it is definitely worth it and I will be more inclinced to give new films a try the next time.

Singapore Airshow 2012

Indefinite hiatus again, I know. Although there were things happening, I don't have the mood to write.

On Saturday, together with my father and brother, I went to the biannual Singapore Airshow 2012 at Changi Exhibition Centre. I'm not a plane enthusiast per say and I have my own reasons for wanting to go. I've been hearing stories about how there will be lots of souvenirs and giveaways from the different exhibitors and so, being the enthusiast in all things knick-knack, I naturally cannot miss out this opportunity.

It was raining quite heavily on the way there and I was praying so hard for it to stop so that we can fully enjoy the afternoon. Thankfully, it did stop raining when we arrived. We parked the car at Terminal 3 and went to the shuttle buses area. I was pleasantly surprised by how efficient the service was. There was almost a continuous supply of SMRT buses ferrying the passengers to and fro. As a result, the bus we took was not very crowded which is great.

Maybe it was the rain, or maybe it was in the afternoon, but it wasn't as crowded as I thought it would be. I did enjoy it though, because it means that we have more personal space.

The aerial show display was the highlight, of course. I managed to snap some pretty pictures of the RSAF display and my favourite, the Australia Roulettes. Again, thanks heavens that the rain stopped just in time for the flying display.

We didn't have any chance to go up to the Singapore Airlines Boeing 747 or any of the planes on display because the queues were simply too long. The exhibition hall was really huge and it was a pity that I didn't manage to collect lots of souvenirs. I did get one collar-pin though.
As the event came to a close, we went to the merchandise booth and I bought the mascot toy after some deliberation.

It was a wonderful day and I looked forward to the show in 2014, only this time, I want to be there throughout the day to fully enjoy the event.

Inspiration

Inspiration. It's a funny, little thing, isn't it? It can hit you when you least expected it and at the same time, it can be the bane or boon of your life. After all, inspiration is what provides jobs for so many people.

For me, inspiration is about whether I have something to write for my blog or do something I normally would not do. There are good periods and bad ones. Sometimes, I hit a "writer's block" and it will be a drought here. Other times, I will go on and on about entries.

This time round, I have been inspired to play my keyboard (piano) after a long, long while. There are times when I lament about why didn't I continue my lessons in Primary 1. I wasn't trained to play with two hands nor was I trained to read the notes. But, I know enough to play really simple songs. I can play if I have the notes translated to letters.

Why the sudden interest? It's because of Sherlock, of course. Lately, everything has been about Sherlock. I picked up Conan Doyle's books, watched all those past shows starring Benedict Cumberbatch and Martin Freeman etc.

It's just too bad I couldn't carry it through since it is really an awful time to start, what with school and stuff. At least I have the notes translated into letters.

CNY 2012

Lunar New Year 2012 came and went. It has been great this year and the ambience is so much better than Christmas.

I was already in the holiday mood when last Wednesday came around. I went to cut my hair and the following day, did manicure in the purple and blue which turned out really cool. Red and pink are so yesterday. That evening, the family went to the Chong Pang area to do some last minute new year shopping and to soak in the festive atmosphere.

On Friday, originally we wanted to go to our usual haunt, Far East Flora but the queue was too long and thus, we went to Ang Mo Kio instead.

We had our reunion dinner at my uncle's house a day before the eve. It was the usual steamboat dinner but I did enjoy it as this is the only time throughout the year in which we get steamboat. Having steamboat at home beats having it outside because it is very casual and everything tastes so much better and superior.

This left us free on Sunday. We went to Far East Flora around 5pm so it was not as crowded. I managed to buy some beautiful cut flowers and my mother got 2 pots of plants. Afterwards, we headed over to Marina Square to meet the relatives.

It was a very smooth journey as most shops will be closed by then and most families will be having their reunion dinner. For the first time, the carpark at Marina Square was so empty and we can park wherever we like. It's fun seeing almost all shutters down.

We ate some snacks at KFC and thankfully, the drizzle ended and we walked over to River Hongbao where all the festivities are. I used to have an aversion going to that place because I remembered it being wet, congested with lots of people and generally being unpleasant. Therefore, it was a surprise to many of us when we arrived as it was so much more organised and roomy now. We even get to walk on the floating platform!

It was the usual visiting on Monday and Tuesday. On more exciting news, we went to Marina Bay Sands on Tuesday evening to watch the laser show at the waterfront and had dinner at Bazin. There was nothing special about the show as I have seen better ones at Sentosa in the past. Bazin is located at the waterfront and it is really cool with all the breeze and palm trees around. It's almost like we are on a vacation overseas. Too bad, reality is that day was the end of the celebrations.

The Reichenbach Fall

Sherlock. Now, this is what I call superior TV. It enthrals the viewer and evokes all sorts of emotions within. It redefines what TV is and proves that with the right amount of attitude and effort, quality shows can be made.

Sherlock is full of win because of fine acting, skilled execution of filming style and of course, the modern adaptations. There is an element of charm that grabs your attention right from the start.

The Reichenbach Fall is the finale of season 2. It is the modern retelling of The Final Problem by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle where the author originally killed off both Moriarty and Sherlock. Thankfully, all those years ago, readers worldwide protested so much that 3 years later, the author brought Sherlock Holmes back alive again in The Empty House.

The producers of Sherlock BBC kept the best secrets in the world, as soon as episode 3 came out yesterday in the Britain, they made the announcement that season 3 was commissioned at the same time as season 2! What a tease! They must be having a laugh at all the anxiety and pleading by fans.

With this in mind, I felt that I could tackle the onslaught of emotions I was sure to face much better. At least, I will know that Sherlock will come back.

Reichenbach Fall starts off on a heavy note, with John Watson back at his therapist after an 18 months hiatus. Sherlock Holmes is dead. It then faded to 3 months earlier, where Sherlock and John were getting famous for their detective skills.

The dry wit and snappy dialogue are still present but cut down. Viewers know what is coming and the episode did nothing to glaze over this fact.

Moving on without focusing on the plot too much, Martin Freeman and Benedict Cumberbatch ought and deserve every award they will subsequent receive for excellent portrayals of their respective characters.

My eyes did well up when John and Mrs Hudson visit Sherlock's grave. One powerful scene was when John saw the "leap of fate" by Sherlock. I don't know what it must be like, seeing your friend jumped to death in front of you. I love how John didn't actually cry out loud but fans all know that he is grieving inside. I love the wiping of eyes and the hitched voice - all those subtle gestures build on the scene. I think that seeing John's anguished look is even more intensive than watching him cry.

Kudos to Benedict Cumberbatch as well. His portrayal of Sherlock utterly won me over, right from the start. In this episode, he gave his best performance yet, playing a wide spectrum of emotions, from rage to sadness, in one episode.

I do hate seeing him vulnerable, so uncertain of himself and the way he loses control around Moriarty.

The scene where he told John that he is a fraud and the things he does are magic tricks is an extremely heart-wrecking scene. There he is, doing the most human thing ever, to thoroughly disgrace himself and protect John from Moriarty's marksman. He finally gain humanity or putting it in another way, thaws the coldness around his heart. Indeed, caring does not help save lives and it certainly is not an advantage, but why did he cry when he knows this is just an act? He truly cares about John and his friends.

I hate how people, even Lestrade, started to doubt him, his skills and the side he is on. He does not see himself as a hero or an angel, but like what Lestrade said in A Study in Pink, "Sherlock Holmes is a great man, and some day, if we're very, very lucky, he might even be a good one".

I don't understand why quite a lot of viewers think that Andrew Scott isn't a good Moriarty. To me, he is an extremely creepy and unstable-minded villain. His character is not a straightforward, in-your-face bad guy. The way he talks seriously creeps me out. Moriarty does not hesitate to manipulate people's thoughts and actions. This is evident when he wooed Molly and pretended to be an actor who has been wronged by Sherlock. He is so good an actor that even Sherlock seems to doubt himself.

I am glad that he is dead, or is he? He did shoot himself in the mouth, but what if he returns once again? I can't stand him any longer but he is the only one who can challenge Sherlock in his own game.

And so, the curtains shall fall on this season. Altogether, it was a brief but satisfying 3 weeks of three 90-minutes of brilliant TV. For many countries, this is just the beginning because Sherlock is not even aired yet. I am resourceful enough to go for downloading as soon as possible.

It is foreseen that Sherlock season 3 can only start filming in late 2012 and the earliest schedule for its release is 2013. As long as it's not another 18 months wait, eh? Something to look forward to this December will be The Hobbit.

Reichenbach Feelings

Times passes so fast, doesn't it?
At the beginning of the new year, I was still extremely excited about the new Sherlock series and the debut of A Scandal in Belgravia. Then, a week past by and I started to feel a bit of doom and gloom about the second episode, The Hounds of Baskerville, because it means that final episode will be upon us soon.

This week marks the end of another season of Sherlock with the Reichenbach Fall coming out in less than 24 hours on BBC One. This episode will break so many hearts and maybe, even tears will fall.

The last time I was so emotionally invested in fiction was when I cried over the deaths in Harry Potter. Other than that, I couldn't remember any times where I feel so depressed over a character death. Can't the producers just confirm that season 3 is in the making? I get it that they want to maximise the suspense for the finale but the way is so cruel. How could they do this to us?!

The whole Sherlock fandom is probably going to be writing angsty fanfiction for many weeks/months to come. All those post-Reichenbach stories about how John, Mycroft and Lestrade will cope without the existence of Sherlock. Sigh.

I am going to be melancholy for days to come and comfort myself by reading lots of fun fanfiction. On the other hand, I can probably focus better on my school work since there is nothing to look forward to once episode 3 is done.

Please, do not give us another 18 months wait for season 3. I don't know how I could bear it. But, I will take 18 months when compared against 3 years wait, like what Sir Arthur Conan Doyle put his readers through. Oh please, let The Empty House happens sooner than later.

I Am Sherlocked

The second day of 2012 got off in a good start.

There's no way I can wait for the Sherlock season 2 episode 1 to be released in the States or for it to even be shown in Singapore, therefore, there's only one way to go about doing this. I managed to get into BBC iPlayer and caught 'A Scandal in Belgravia' hours after its debut in the United Kingdom.

The episode is everything I could have hope for and more. It is brilliantly executed and very emotional. In fact, many viewers have declared that this episode surpasses all of season 1. Steven Moffat really tugs our heartstrings like a violin. Episode 1 does things to my heart when I saw how lost Sherlock was.

Irene Adler is portrayed amazingly as a dominatrix and the power play with Sherlock is deliciously thrilling. The rapport and chemistry between Sherlock and John is stronger and better than ever. The acting was really stellar. There were good effects as well, with the return of the text overlays such as blog posts and text messages.

Viewership in UK alone was estimated at around 9 million at present and looked set to rise above 10 million once the final figure comes in. Besides, this figure is just in UK, it is not even released in the States or other countries yet.

Even though I am miles away from the land of origin, I am still proud to be a fan in this rising fandom. Sherlock is going to be a phenomenon. It is a testimony of how TV programmes can be if effort is put in. Sherlock is an example of the new TV show with intelligent humour for thinking people. Amidst in this era of dull, repetitive and mediocre TV programmes, Sherlock shines like a jewel. It is refreshing, smart and charming.

Kudos to the geniuses behind Sherlock! I think everyone out there will be on the lookout for news of series 3 in making. Fingers crossed. If BBC knows what is good for them, they will pass this motion. Sherlock is literally the best thing that happens in TV for a long time.

The Good & Bad of 2011

I can hardly believe that 2011 is ending! Hold your horses though, because I intend to make good use of the last day of 2011.

Year 2011 is a year full of ups and downs, personally, locally and internationally.

For me, I graduated with a Diploma with Merit and an award for the Kingsmen Creatives Prize. That was the glory of my life, my pride and joy. I was at the top of the world. Then, came the task of choosing a University. I fretted over whether I am good enough to enter a local University and thought that I lost my chance. In the end, I chose NUS and am planning to major in Geography.

I wouldn't say that 2011 is good to me because it isn't. The year seems to hover between good and bad, besides, I am not entirely pleased with myself and the way things are heading. Indeed, I would say that the earlier half of the year was so much better than the later half.

If there is one regret I have for 2011, it is that I failed to fulfil my goal and dream of going to USA. All these years, I worked so hard and am going to reward myself with a bang but yet, it failed to materialise. That goal is still standing. I can only hope that I can fulfil it sooner not later.

In Singapore, this is nerve-wracking year. Toes are trod-on and fingers are pointed at. We witnessed the watershed General Election and Presidential Election. I finally realised that Singapore is not what I thought it to be. I thought that people will be more grateful and thankful for we have, alas, that was not the case. People, especially, the younger generation, have grown contemptuous and cynical. They have grown "fat" from all the coddling and protection.

2011 is a year full of disasters that one can almost say it's a disastrous year. Not only are there earthquakes, floods and tsunamis with thousands of lives lost, there is also the financial crisis that sent countries into debt and the stock markets a-tumbling. The powerhouses of the world are not so powerful after all.

The technological world lost a visionary, Steve Jobs, who redefines technology. The world, too, lost dictators such as Gaddafi and Kim Jong Il.

All in all, it's been a roller-coaster ride of a year. However, I will still miss it simply because the year is gone. The new year ahead seems daunting and tough, for the world economy and for myself. Not to mention, the supposedly end-of-the-world will arrive. I will be entering into my second semester of studies and I have to grit my teeth to bear with it.

For all the pessimism I show, I still have hopes that 2012 will be wonderful as it can be. Besides, the year 2012 is made better already with the thoughts of Sherlock season 2 in January and The Hobbit in December starring both Benedict Cumberbatch and Martin Freeman in both shows. Oh, it's Christmas!

BBC Sherlock: A Review

This holiday, I am in love. It's not very often I find myself in love with something. Perhaps, rather than calling it love, I should called it 'passion' or a worse word, 'obsession'.

I love Harry Potter (the book series and the movies), Lord of the Rings (the book series and the movies), Twilight (the book series, not so much the movies), and a couple of less epic book series and movies.

Fanfiction has play an important role all these years, I started out with good old Harry Potter fics of course. After which, I branched out. I must count my good fortune that I am exposed to so many wonderful and inspiring fanfiction. It kind of binds the world together, don't you think?  All these great writers, not professionals, but still manage to spellbind so many readers, drawing in reviews, be it good or bad.

My latest "obsession" is Sherlock from BBC One. The British really does amazing films. In this area, I would like to bring out the phrase, "quality not quantity". The mini series consists of only three 90-minutes episodes, but it has already won the BAFTA Awards that very year it came out. The series is critically-acclaimed and at the same time, well-received by the general public. There is always a line between what critics like and what the public like but it looks like Sherlock struck gold.

I know that it was released in England in August 2010 but I got wind of it only in the early months of this year.

Indeed, just after the first episode, I can't help but to get drawn into the 21st century reboot of the beloved series by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. Sherlock is so witty and sarcastic, filled with British humour. It is ingenious, cleverly executed and a fast-paced, intelligent and fun series. Sherlock is like a breath of fresh air and it actually allows the viewer to think things through. I often find myself rewinding to truly understand the deductions. I enjoyed it tremendously.

What adds fuel to the fire is the fact that the Sherlock Holmes and John Watson are played by two good-looking, British actors namely, Benedict Cumberbatch and Martin Freeman. Supporting cast are up on par as well. I guess this is where the main appeal lies.

Audience do appreciate good-lookers in films, I can firmly attested to that. Of course, that doesn't mean I only watch shows with good-looking guys but it does affect one's decision, doesn't it?

I quickly moved on to the world of BBC!Sherlock fanfiction and found out just how big this fandom truly is. It has only been slightly more than a year old!

With series 2 coming up in the January 2012, the BBC!Sherlock fandom looks set to expand and grow to new heights. While I am excited over the prospect of the new series, I am thrilled by the thought of new fanfics that will be inspired by the new season. I simply cannot wait for the new and existing authors to contribute and share their work with the rest of the fandom.

Let it not be said that viewers these days only appreciate the TV adaptations and fanon writings. I read a wide spectrum of works, ranging from literary writings to novels to amatuers' fanfiction.

I do take the steps to read up on the history of the original author and the book series.I have done it for Harry Potter and Lord of the Rings. Not only did I read the Lord of the Rings trilogy, I also dabbled in Tolkien's other works such as The Silmarillion and previously unpublished commentary in The History of Middle Earth. I was 14 going on 15 at that time.

For Harry Potter, other than the the 7 books, I too read literary, analytical works such as Looking for God in Harry Potter and The End of Harry Potter.

As for my new interest in Sherlock Holmes, well, for the first time, I picked up Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's work. It's certainly baffling why I didn't have the interest in it when I was younger. The thought of reading this worldwide renowned series never did cross my mind. Perhaps, it's because I was never into the mystery and crime genre.

As I grow older, the time I can devote myself to novels and books lessen. These days, I mostly read fanfiction on the Internet.

Small Miracles

There's so much to update before the year comes to an end. Hopefully, my muse will allow me to write in this last few days.

I'd received my grades for Semester 1 and I must say, thank god for small miracles! For Social Work, I got an A-, the best grade I've received so far. The others are just B-, B and B+. It's alright though, because there's nothing wrong with being average, particularly in these trying times.

I have come to realise that I should lower my expectations in this part of my academic life and it doesn't help that University isn't really my cup of tea. Oh well, like I said, I am fine as long as I do not fall below the B- mark. That is one big no-no for me.

Brain Mush

My brains is becoming mush after the sudden switch in activities. For a couple of weeks, I was preparing exams like crazy, using lots of mind power and then, when the exams ended, it was like the button inside my head was in a switch-off mode.

Of course, I took fully advantage in "wasting" my time because when else will I get the chance?

I realised I have been neglecting my blog this year and I am not exactly satisfied with myself and the way everything is going. Sigh, maybe I am just not in the mood for anything. Maybe, I am jaded about Life in general. Seriously, even Christmas seems "off" this year. I can't really feel any excitement or the spirit I have been looking forward to. Maybe, I am getting old.

Another year is about to come to a close and like every past year, I will lament the ending and am not looking forward to another new year. Why must all the good holidays happen within a couple of months? It makes the rest of the year so drab and dull.

Finals Are Over

My finals are finally over on Monday, 28th November and I'm planning to enjoy my one month holiday fully.

The past two weeks have been, for a lack of better word, tough. I've never feel so incompetent and not confident before. But the exams, like anything, came and went. And I can only hope that I did alright. I mean, the exams did feel alright.

I am kind of apologetic for all the grouses I made during the study week and more. I guessed I must have drove my family bonkers. Oh well, like I told them, they will have to endure for another 2 and a half years.

University is no joke and I am not amused. With the end of semester 1, I can say that I just have the worst time in my entire academic life. It has been awful and miserable.

I have chosen geography as my major. Let's hope that there will be no regrets. To have some interest in it is a good right, non?

As ready as I'll ever be

I'm as ready as I'll ever be = I don't really feel ready, but there is nothing I can do to ever feel more ready.

I've done all that I could and really hope that my hardwork will pay off.

SOS

After 13 years, you would have thought I'd wisen up. But no, humans are weird in this way. We never seem to learn, did we?

Once again, I find myself not having enough time to study and this year, it's even worse than usual. For one, it's University. Need I say more? It's really a killer and I am seriously demoralised by everything. If only I could weep and things will be fine like magic.

3 examinations in 2 days is no laughing matter and with how my brains work, I can't really cope with the influx of info. Action speaks louder than words right? I keep telling myself to work hard but somehow I didn't. I need a wake-up call and what better than one in the form of bad results.

I am not giving up but rather, I am trying to lessen the shame of scoring bad grades. Everyday, I give myself a prep-talk, I have to condition my mind in accepting what will be less-than-stellar grades. I keep telling myself that it's alright for this is the first time. I try to lessen the burden I will otherwise face.

All I am asking for are B- for all subjects. I can't fail. I can't get C or D. I really cannot afford that.

I've never had such hard-core examinations since the O levels. On one hand, I feel sorry for myself. On the other, I know that I am the one who put myself in such a spot.

Once every thousand years

So, today is a very special day because it can only happen once every thousand years. Today's 11th November 2011 or rather 11-11-11.

There's nothing special for me except that it was my last day of school for the first semester. All that's left are final exams and then I can take a well deserved break.

My first semester wasn't what I expected at all. Let's just say it was a big shock and I wasn't entirely happy.

High Stakes

The stakes are stacked high against me. I'm feeling rather blue and depressed these days. I can't help but to have all these unsavory thoughts running through my head. What if I didn't make it? What if I fail? What if I can't find a good job? What if I got left behind by society? Goodness, one will wonder what I am thinking.

Sometimes, I despaired how much reliance I put in place to hold myself together. I don't see the need to hide the fact that my main purpose in going to a Uni is to get that degree to give myself greater opportunities in life. Doors will be easier to open, you know?

I don't want to change the world, I just want to change my life.

By now, I have realised how the minority is marginalised and dare I say, discriminated? This is my first time getting that feeling. Those lecturers seem to forget that not everyone is from JC and have the background knowledge for the subjects. I have never done an essay since forever and what am I going to do for the exams, huh?

I hate it. I think this is part of the reason why my confidence levels fall to an all-time low. I have to be content with being an average student in Uni. Sometimes, life just suck. And when Life gives you lemons, what do I do then?

Failure to Thrive

It's almost the end of my first semester in the University and the one thing that I dread most is looming on the horizon - finals.

I've never face such uncertainty till now. For some reason, I don't think I am doing all that well in Uni. Could it be that my luck has run out or that I have reached my limits in terms of education? Could it be that "inferiority complex" is dragging me down or that I've too high expectations?

I feel like I am struggling to stay afloat all this while. Maybe I am too harsh on myself. Maybe all these negativity is getting me down.

Perhaps my years in Poly had 'spoilt' me, afterall I was considered to be a better-than-average student then. Polytechnic was the pinnacle of my education, it was my most successful and the most rewarding. Maybe after all that high, things will be difficult to match up.

I wasn't kidding when I said that a failure will seriously damaged my morale and confidence. And I did just that - failing my Economics mid-sem test. I never fail since Secondary 4!

The Lion King musical

I'm really glad that I'm able to catch one of the last few shows of The Lion King at Marina Bay Sands. I've always wanted to go, and now that it is leaving Singapore, there is no time to waste.

My uncle helped to book the tickets and with a group rate, the tickets for C reserve were cheaper. We ate dinner at Rasapura and I must say, the IR still impressed me.

It was a sell-out show with lots of kids and parents turning up. There were also school children in their uniforms turning up in classes. A single ticket costs quite a lot and they certainly have the means to do so. Perhaps, their school did sponsor them?

With good sense, we checked out the theatre shop before the show because it will be teaming with people when the show is over. I bought a pin which has the lion king logo on it and the event booklet which costs S$15.

It is a captivating show and the costumes are simply stunning! The songs are sung powerfully and the score with its African origins haunting. The portrayal of the animals are quite realistic. The lion masks were extremely detailed and beautifully hand-crafted.

The Lion King defines theatre and I think many people will be surprised that plays can be as good as films.

This is a showcase of what theatre can be: taking an epic tale and adapting it onto the stage. Theatre has that certain charm and "human touch" that films do not have. Knowing that there is only one chance to make it right and getting a standing ovation, it is not something you can get from a film.

During the 2 and 1/2 hours show, the theatre was transformed into the African plains with leaping antelopes, stately giraffes, and sleek leopard. The stage exploded into a myriad of colours and it is certainly a feast for the eyes. The backdrops are magnificent and lighting and music ties everything together nicely.

I'm happy that my parents got a chance to watch it as well, after much cajoling from us. Seize the day, that's how the saying goes. Who knows when will the broadway show be in Singapore again?

Viva La Liberte

I'm free! Well, not really. But this is as close as it gets.

I'm done with the social work project which I have been ranting about for days. I'm done with the presentation as well which is miles apart from what I used to do in Poly.

I don't do last minute work. Therefore, I cannot stand it when some people came along and change my views. I'm ashamed by my own actions, you know? I've done quite a lot so why is it I'm feeling guilty? Is it because I slept when the others were doing till the wee morning? But, I have done my fair share of work.

It's definitely a culture shock. I promise myself I will never do anything like this again.

I'm left with one last project for economics and then it's time for the examinations. It's going to be another headache and heartache.

Crunch Time

When Life gives you lemons, what will you do? Will you make lemonade? Or will you throw the lemons back?

Once again, it's that time of the school term where things get piled up and you have to do whatever it takes to clear them. It's crunch time.

There's a ball of sunshine waiting for me on the other side, but I have to cross the hurdles first. I have to get over the painful parts before getting the reward. Gosh, the phrase "so near yet so far" has never been more true than this.

Next week is the worst of the lot. On Monday, I've to hand up Social Work reflection paper. On Tuesday, it's History essay. On Friday, I've a term test for South Asian Studies which is drab. The following Monday, there's Social Work group project to be handed up.

Out of the four, the ones I'm most worried about is the group project because we have not FREAKING started! I'm wondering if I associate myself with the wrong group. I thought they are pretty OK people, but last minute work is not my cup of tea.

There is barely a week left, oh god.

Mid-semester Tests

I am woefully behind in updating since the weeks have been hectic.

I did my first ever mid-semester test in the University on 3rd October, and even though I really put in a lot of effort, the difficulty of the paper killed me.

I got stuck doing MCQs and when I realised I spent too much time on that, I quickly jumped to the short-answer questions. I was slowly doing question 1 and when it was announced that there were only 15 minutes left, I panicked and the rest was history.

My mind went blank and I literally feel cold sweat breaking out. I have never ever experience such a thing before. I scribbled what I can and did the few MCQs left without much thinking. I will be lucky if I pass, that is how bad it is.

I didn't have much time to study for history test which took place the next day. However, I feel that I have done quite alright. We'll see when the results are back. There must be at least one test where I have to do well. If not, it's a double-whammy to my self.