Wednesday:Monday, September 07, 2009
Poly class BBQ
Wednesday:Thursday, September 03, 2009
Movie outing


Going for a movie outing with cousins and brothers. We're watching UP at Marina Square.
Bought the tickets first and went for lunch at KFC.
I thought the cinema will be quite empty but no, it's filled up with young children and their parents.
UP is a very touching movie, and I cried. Not a big deal since I cried at practically every movie. The dedication of the old man to his wife is so touching.
Had a dentist appointment in the evening so we went off.
TNS 2 & 3
Woke up to a rainy morning. I silently (OK, not so silently) cheered at the prospect of it. I would meant that we'll get to stay indoors right? Wrong!
At around 10.45, with 15 minutes to spare before McDonald's breakfast orders close, we ordered breakfast to be delivered to us. I was really hungry since last night.
After a nice breakfast, we were told to get ready for the continuation of the visits to the Little India. I think most of us are reluctant to do so. We thought we could evade it, but can't, obviously.
Most people just want to stay in the apartments instead of going to these places. And if the teachers wanted our opinions, they should respect it. What's the point of asking if there is only one choice?
I get that this is a school-organised event to get to know the cultural side of things, but this is supposed to be an informal event. That's why my mood turn bad when I saw the itinerary in the 1st place.
Took the bus to little India and walked around in the rain. It's Sunday, and it's raining. Little India was filled with people and worst, it's raining. Did I mention raining?
After one big round, we still went back to the Indian shop for our lunch. I'm not a fan of Indian dishes so I shared with my friend. So, it was oily, too oily to do good...
Took the MRT to Bugis and through the crowded Bugis street and to 四马路观音庙 to do god knows what. In the end, we just sat there for an hour plus and stoned. My mood was not any better and it will get worst in other circumstances. But, I tried to control it.
Left for Payar Lebar where we were supposed to gather at 6.30pm to go to Geylang Serai Market. It's like this huge bazaar except that it filled with people and smoke and goods. I can't stand crowds nor smoke so together with some friends, we went in for a turn before coming out.
Didn't get anything from there. Had takeaway subway for dinner. This was my second subway in 2 days. Then, we went off first. I can hardly wait to go back to the apartments.
Decided to take bus 69 from Bedok interchange. Seems like a bad idea because the bus took so long to come. I timed, it was like 15 minutes. At last, on the way back!
Played the second challenge "Who wants to be a Slumdog Millionaire" in the empty UK room. Some of us were still wanting to go there and bathe in hot water before they start but we bathed after. Basically, we had to prepare questions for the other teams regarding the country of our room.
In the morning, we had fun picking out facts from wikipedia and making up wrong answers. We made it pretty tricky.
Germany's questions were a laugh. India got first in the second challenge and we, the "Japanese" got second.
The other people and the teachers went for movie in the lecture hall but I didn't go with them. I was already cranky and wanted to take a nice, hot shower before relaxing.
Went Caltex again with those who didn't go for the movie. Bought breakfast for tomorrow.
Slept at about 2am.
Day 3 (Monday):
Hooray! Was ready to go back home!
Woke at around 9 plus, I think. The others were still asleep because they came back late. Had disgusting cup-noodles and milo for breakfast. I really hate the taste of cup-noodles. It's vile.
Saw the third challenge. It was dancing related to the assigned country. Wanted to forfeit along with others. But, all the same, we searched for it via youtube. There's the traditional Geisha dance, the robot dance, the ParaPara etc.
It was free and easy for us until 4pm. Much as I wanted to go back to Orchid Park Sec during this year Teachers' Day celebrations, I can't because of they ended quite early. *Sighs* next year then.
Decided to go for the long awaited movie: The Proposal. At about 12.45pm, we went to wake the others from other rooms to see if they wanted to go.
10 of the girls went and there were so many people, mainly school-children in the cinema. The Proposal is a hilarious movie! Had a great time watching it.
We thought we'll be late for the challenge since the movie ended after 4pm and we had to take a bus back. However, the challenge was pushed back as always.
It was nearly 5pm when it finally started. Before that, packed up our luggage and took some group photos.
Our group decided to do the Visa commercial dance who took a leaf out of the book from "Where the hell is Matt?". It has a deeper meaning than just the Visa advertisement. In "Where the hell is Matt?", he visited many countries and dance a jig. It's transnational, we said.
Haha, after 3 challenges, Japan was in second place with Israel in the first.
Then, came the dreaded part. I had to lug my luggage from one end to the main entrance which is like one stop bus-stop away because I'll need to return the DVD I borrowed. I was huffing and puffing along the way.
With my father's car in sight, I hurried to deposit my stuff from my hands.
And, I'm backed home with my beloved bed and bigger bathing space. Home-cooked meals are the best.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Overall, it's been an experience to have. The room-mates are lovely too. But, I can't see myself living there for 3 weeks without losing my temper. I was in very low humor on the second day. If with other people, I'd have snapped at them.
So glad, that it's just 3 days and is informal.
Tuesday, September 01, 2009
TNS day 1
My father drove me to school as I was carrying a lot of stuff for the 3 day stay in the apartments at school. I met up with my friend to borrow DVDs in the library before lugging our luggage over to the apartments.
Draw lots for the roommates. Well, I know most of them anyway. Only 3 rooms will be occupied instead of 4. The country we got was Japan.
Moved in. It's hot and dusty. Immediately, I switched on all the air-cons in the bedrooms to 16 Degrees Celsius and put the fan on high. It's really too bad the living room has no air-con.
Saw our 1st challenge. We had to prepare a dish from the country we got, which was Japan in our case. It's so much easier to prepare than the fare from Israel and France. At least we didn't have to research.
Went to Tampines 1 for lunch and to buy the necessary ingredients for the Japanese curry and miso soup. It's all instant, except for the chicken, potatoes and carrots.
After that, left for Lucky Plaza via the Express bus service in which we have to pay $2 plus. And because there was so many people, there isn't any seats for us. Well, isn't that dandy?
We had to "infuse" ourselves in the "culture" and took some pictures. Took another bus to the Peranakan Museum. I liked this part the best. It's really insightful to see the cultural side of the Peranakans. Had fun embossing pictures on the paper too. The designs are really beautiful!
A few of us decided to cab back because of the heat and the crowds. No way am I going to waste money on a bus, standing no less for half an hour. I rather spend a little more, comfortable in a taxi. Apparently, some of us had the same idea.
Reached first and started cooking. Found out the stoves don't work and the hot-plate too. So, we used the one in the empty UK room. It took too long to boil the water on hot-plate and we had a good idea. To boil the water in the kettle and used it to cook the chicken pieces. The cooking was quite a success.
Finally, after everything was done, we took the pots and some cutlery to the BBQ pit. The Israel team were already there. They prepared chicken wraps. The French team prepared garlic soup and French toast. The teachers started their grading and tasting since the guys' teams (Germany and India) were late.
And that was our supposedly dinner. Knowing me, however, I just ended up eating some rice and miso soup. I did try the sausages too. The BBQ, in the last minute, was cancelled.
Went to opposite petrol station for some food. We wanted to go for a midnight movie but didn't.
I brought Love Actually the uncut version there because my friend asked me to. Got all of them excited over the uncensored parts. Haha, however, they were not fated to watch it as it would not start in all the laptops. We tried and tried to no avail. Ahh, they were disappointed.
Bathed in cold water since the heater was spoilt. Slept at around 2 plus and woke up at 4 plus because of the air-con. It's really, really cold despite me setting it to 25 Degrees Celsius and a low fan. I wore long pants, jacket and socks with a holey blanket.
So, I woke up around 4 plus since I can't stand it. Felt quite awake then. Went online for a while and went to bed in another room at about 5 plus. Slept till 7 plus and woke again. During the dawn, I switched off the air-con completely.
TNS
That will be tonight, I suppose.
Seriously, I've no time. Tomorrow I'll "leaving home" again. Sigh, you think I want this?!
A short and and bittersweet summary: It had been an experience to have, indeed. There are good moments, and even more bad moments.
I'm so thankful for the H1N1 flu to cut short the original 3 weeks stay. If 3 days has been a downward spiral, what will 3 weeks be? Hellish, I think.
I'll continue when I return from another movie outing! Yay!
Sunday, August 30, 2009
Friday, August 28, 2009
Of holidays & Scotland
Was packing for the TNS 3 day stay in school starting tomorrow. *Sighs* It's like leaving home. What a hassle! I'm the kind of person who have lots of toiletries to take along and must have this and that.
I'm taking a sling-bag of clothes and towel, a backpack for the other stuff and a laptop bag.
Went to Borders first and Kinokuiya at Orchard area with a friend. I cna't find the novel I'm looking for! I'm kind of disappointed in Borders. It let me down, again and again.
In the end, I did buy one of Lynn Kurland's novel. I'm thinking about whether I should just ask them to pre-order it for me. When I have the time in the next few weeks, I'll make a trip down again.
I didn't even have time for myself! I want to rant on it. It's the holidays, why am I having all sort of activities?! Holiday is for me to enjoy and to relax!
My idea of relaxing is to curl up with a nice novel, music wafting by, and maybe some ice-cream to go by. Add Autumn breeze and the smell of lovely country-side to that and I'll have the perfect vacation. Too bad, this is Singapore.
Can't wait to make a trip to the Scotland Highlands. All these books about the wilderness and wonderfulness of the Highlands makes me swoon. The native language too. Scotland has moved up in the place of "a must to visit" countries in my list. Europe remains the top destination to go. But maybe, just maybe, Scotland and England will be my destination to go to first. Afterall, the exchange-rate is better?
Will stop here now.
Volturi Revealed
They are really well done, in terms of make-up, dress-code, background effects. True, I'm not that satisfied with all of them but let's wait till the movie to pass a judgement.
For now, I can say that Chris Weitz has out-done himself and will give New Moon the boost it needs. Thank you so much!
Marcus ( Christopher Heyerdahl)
I'll post my views later. My favourite remains to be Jane, as portrayed by Dakota Fanning. Innocent yet sinister.
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Of exams and holidays
Seriously, MBS paper was quite tricky in a way the MCQs were like crap. Options are A and B are correct, A and C and D are correct etc, should only appear at least twice. But no, it has to be for most questions.
I know that A is definitely correct, but am not sure about the rest, how in the world am I going to answer these MCQs? In the end, I just used my intelligence thinking.
B+ should be alright, I really hope.
HRM paper was quite easy though. My hand cramped and my handwriting was bad. The 'S' looks like a wriggle or a 'C' by the time I did the short-essays. Like any other paper, I did not remembered everything but I tried my best.
Today's Business Finance is a killer, for my body and my mind. Adrenaline just pumped into my blood as minutes ticked by and I had a panic attack last night. I slept around 12 plus because I was looking through past year papers.
This is the first time I did something like that because I desperately want to get an A. Not B or B+.
The paper was OK overall. I didn't remembered everything but did some trial-and-error. In my sub-conscious, I knew that this is over that, just not sure enough.
Oh well, 2.1 grades will be out on 10th September. Wow, I can hardly wait. I'll be dreading and anticipating it at the same time. 2 As, 2 B+ and 1 B is the target if I want to maintain my GPA of 6.3.
I promise myself if I get my targeted grades for 2.1 and 2.2, I'll purchase the Slytherin tie I've been wanting. It's clearly a want for I've no use for a tie, I don't even use tie as an accessory. I need an incentive to get the tie from USA and wear it for the premier of Deathly Hallows part 1 and 2. It's so lovely but extravagant.
Now that holidays are here, I have lots of things to do. Went to the library on my way home. Finally, I can replenish my brain cells by doing light reading.
I was not in a good mood earlier after seeing the TNS 3-day-stay itinerary. Suddenly, I don't feel like attending it. Gods knows what I'm thinking when I submit the form.
Maybe, it's due to the fact that I want to visit my secondary school on Monday because of teachers' day celebrations, but I'll need to get permission to leave early from the stay. Besides, I'll need to get friends to return with me. *Sighs*, this is enough to give me a bad mood and a headache. I really want to go back... Or maybe it's because I just don't like having to draw lots for room-mates. For goodness sake, this is an informal event.
Then again, perhaps, I shouldn't read too much into it.
My first week of holiday is packed full of stuff. Tomorrow I'm going to Borders with a friend. On Saturday, I'll be going for the TNS. On Wednesday, I'll be attending the class chalet. On Thursday, I'll be going to start work.
Not sure I like my holidays to be productive. I'd rather be a jellyfish for that short while.
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
SOS
Business Finance is one subject I love to hate or should it me hate to love. In any case, I love this subject with a fierce hatred because I desperately want to get an A for it.
Going to sleep on it now. All the best to me.
Monday, August 24, 2009
Screw you, MBS
C'mon, if my goal is to pass my exams, I'm already there.
No, it's about maintaining my As and getting at least a B for those subjects which I don't really like.
The study week had passed, I can say that this time, I started earlier in my revision. But, whether that is the indication I will do better, I can't say for sure. My mind seems blank! The thing I studied a few days ago seems wipe from my mind!
Screw you, MBS! I really tried my best, but I've no confidence in doing the exam. I want to get an A, but I'll make do with a B+.
I've nothing more to say now except prayers.
Thursday, August 20, 2009
Ill
On Monday, my brother remained ill so I took him to the doctor. He did the H1N1 test, and it came out positive. Oh joy. 10 days MC for him. Spent almost $160 on the fees. Thus, the quarantine began.
At night, I got ill too. A bad sore throat. I went to the doctor the next day on my own. The administrator thought I had it too. But, as long as I don't have fever or other symptoms, I should be quite safe.
Then, my illness got worst. I had blocked nose and felt aches all over my body. I think it should be like dengue, only milder. I felt lethargic too.
3rd day remains the same. Took my temperature and it hovered around 37.1. Slept through my afternoon after taking the cocktail of pills. Pill for block nose, antibiotics for sore throat, pills for pain. Add barley water, herbal tea and cups of water to that list.
And for some weird reason, I cried. I felt lost and pathetic. It's been ages since I had been this ill. H1N1 must be potent, indeed.
My nose is still blocked as I'm typing this.
OK, this is the worst study break ever. I can't even study much due to my illness. I did toy with the idea of getting H1N1 because then, I can achieve the fullest potential when I'm ready.
This is just wrong. It's like hanging off a cliff. Nether here or there.
On one hand, let's say I've H1N1. Pro 1: I will not be able to take exams next week. Con 1: I'll not be able to fulfill my plans; 3 day stay in school, chalet, going to Borders. Con 2: Everyone will be relieved of the burden of exams while I'll be taking them. Con 3: People received their results while I can't.
On the other, let's say I remain ill but not H1N1 positive. Pro 1: I can do the things I want once my exams are over. Pro 2: The burden of exams will be gone. Pro 3: I'll be able to enjoy my holidays to the fullest. Con 1: While ill, I'm not able to do my best in studying. Con 2: I'll just cry if my grades are bad. Con 3: My potential is not achieved!
Unfortunately, the second option is the better one. I really want exams to be over in a snap. But, I don't want to look back at my grades and GPA and regret it. This is supposed to be the easiest term!
The best option is to, recover before tomorrow. Or, remain ill until my exams are over, so I can get a MC to hand it up with my exam papers.
This is completely stupid, I felt stupid for thinking of all these.
Studying Business Finance part 2. It's a slow process... MBS left.
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Latest NM trailer
OMJ! The newest New Moon trailer is looking awesome!
-
Once again, Taylor looks just right for his role. Dakota Fanning as Jane is totally spot-on! She looks so sinister in her cloak and red eyes. Robert Pattinson looks like crap, which is great. Very nice portrayal of the angst-y Edward.
-
The special effects looks exceptionally good here. It's not cringe worthy like those from Twilight's. The motorcycle scene has potential. I like the St. Marcus Day scene best. I'm not too sure if Pattinson's eyes are red or golden towards the end. Looks sort of red to me, but it can't be because he didn't drink any human blood.
-
I still don't like the wolf form, but well, I can accept it as long as the movie is wonderful.
PS: Apparently the larger version can't work. So, here's the link. http://video.hitfix.com/services/player/bcpid1861161894?bctid=34318923001
Monday, August 17, 2009
Summary of term 2.1
Firstly, I'll make a summary of my coursework.
For Business Finance, I've halfway to an A. This means that for the end-semester exam, I'll need to score an A too. For HRM, I've a 70% B. It met my expectations (I was praying for at least a B) but I didn't know why I still felt a little upset and disappointed. PBL 2 was quite alright, my group had a B+. For MBS, we received an A for group project, and an A for the overall coursework. 60% with an A, leaving 40% for exam.
Holy, I'm going to work hard for the 3 subjects. I mean 2.1 is supposed to the "easy" term due to the lack of subjects. However, it's difficult too. 2 As and a B+ is what I'm aiming for!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I know, term 2.1 was not a happy term for me. First of all, my wonderful Freshman group mates are all in different classes. I truly missed the times we had together, as friends and as group members.
However, towards the end of the term, I have had fun, especially with those who have the same CDS as I do. Late nights for TNS equal to hanging out in school when most people went home. It's great knowing the difficulties we faced and complaining about it. "We understand each other". Also, the things we like. My friend, I discovered, likes the characters from Harry Potter despite not reading the books. I'm so happy to find a kindred spirit. We talked about lots of things and I enjoyed myself. I should think, this is the first time I open so much of my heart. I usually don't talk about the things I like to people.
Desipte everything, we'll still be leaving for our respective classes in next semester. Once again, the project groups will changed. Once again, there'll be new people to make friends with. I actually hated this procedure. Not only is it a hassle, it's too much for me...
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I guess I'm one foot into working during the holidays. Hope things will run smoothly for me. The experience is one thing, the cash on the other hand, is an incentive.
Many things to do once the exams ended; trip to Borders/Kino, 3 day camp for TNS, class chalet, work. In that order.
Gods, suddenly I wanted to read this book very much. To the point where I'll buy it if only Borders sell it. I sure hope so, or else I'll order from Borders. Stardust of Yesterday by Lynn Kurland is the book in question.
I'm suddenly addicted to her novels. Why is it that I like to read during exams period? I did something sinful on Friday. Went to the library, borrowed her novel, and read it in one go.
Will stop here now.
All the best for the exams.
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
2nd NM teaser trailer
Holy Crap! It's the second teaser trailer for New Moon. It's about 14 seconds long and shows new footage.
All I can say is, Taylor's muscles and abs are incredible! OMJ! If all else fails, Taylor and the Volturi are worth spending the money on. Oh yeah!
Taylor has really captured the Jacob -look. While Kristen Steward, well, her emotions are pretty neutral to me. Too neutral, to be exact. Anyway...
The background music is weird, that's all I can say.
Monday, August 10, 2009
NDP 2009

The theme for this year's National Day.
Indeed, it's a get-together for all Singaporeans, regardless of race, language or religion. Even the foreigners joined in.
Watched the parade at home as usual. I really hope that next year, I'll be lucky enough to catch it live on the floating platform on 9th August.
It's this day that Singaporeans will feel the joy and sense of belonging to the country more so than other days. After all, it's a huge party! The fireworks are magnificent, I must say, especially the heart-shaped ones.
With improvements made to the parade every year, this year is, needless to say, the best.
Although, I do have some things that I don't quite like. For instance, the remixing of the National Anthem. What is that? Furthermore, the remixing of all those beloved and timeless National Day songs made me cringe. Gah, they are awful! I can't stand remixing for obvious reasons. But, I guess, everything needs a change...
I feel that more singing should be done, especially the full version of the songs, not one sentence from song A and one sentence from song B.
Ahh well, despite this year's official National Day song being scrutinised and made a mockery, it's pretty good once the song keeps playing over and over again. I don't like the guy's voice though, it's too monotonous and "unfeeling".
I love the newly addition of the Pledge taking moment at 8.22pm. Whether you are located in Singapore or overseas, take some time out to take the pledge. I love mass events like this. It makes me teary-eyed and get tingles.
I saw some of the videos Singaporeans took from overseas about them taking the pledge. Wow, I'll just love to be one of them. From UAE to Australia to USA to China. At shopping centres, at MRT Stations, at NTUC Outlets in Singapore.
I hope they will incorporate this event for the subsequent National Days to come.
It's been a great 5 day holiday. Now, it's back to studying for the exams.
Sunday, August 09, 2009
Happy Birthday S'pore 2009 and happy times
Happy Birthday Singapore!
44 years of independence and stronger everyday. Now if only we could set off Weasleys Wizarding Wheezes Fireworks and Gandalf's dragon fireworks...
I'm grateful to be born in Singapore and enjoy all the good things here. There may be times I take things for granted but I truly appreciate. It is more so when I went overseas.
Recently, I went to Sydney, Australia. I can't help but compare things. It's so different in Australia. I'm not saying that Australia is on the bad side, just very different. The country still remains the top destination to go, as a traveller.
Anyway, reading all those entries dedicated to Singapore on the newspaper today made me teary-eyed.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Met up with my friend and her brother yesterday before she goes back to USA. It'll only be next year Summer before she'll come again. Another friend also joined us.
I wanted to go to Ion Orchard, the newest shopping mall in Orchard Road. It was a bad idea. There were tons of people there, all wanting a share of the new pie. Since, it was dinner time, all eateries and restaurants were chock-full of people. Queues were also forming everywhere.
In the end, we ate at the food court, which we had a hard time finding available seats. Needless to say, the food court ended up the destination where most people went because it's certainly cheaper to eat there than in a restaurant. Despite being new, the floors were quite dirty, because of all the crowds.
The toilets were full too, and it was also quite dirty. The cleaners are having a hard time cleaning. Some people just don't know how to take care of stuff. Tsk, tsk. In Australia, public toilets in train stations or near beaches remain quite clean even though cleaners are not always around.
We went to this new coffee house, Dr Cafe Coffee. It's like StarBucks. Sadly, they were out of Strawberries, so I can't order the Strawberry Cocktail. I ended up ordering Peach Tea because I don't take coffee.
We talked about lots of stuff, with the majority being about the state-of-weapons in various countries and the national service.
Too bad, I didn't have a chance to visit threesixty, the gourmet marketplace at Ion. They are selling cool chocolates there. There's also Royce, the chocolate brand from Hokkaido. Ahh well, when the hype is all gone, I'll ask my father to bring us there.
Took the MRT home, and bid good-bye to my friends.
Throughout the ride home, we were talking about weapons in different countries, the exchange rates and the leaders of Indonesia, USA and Singapore. Really, it made me think what strangers will say; teenagers who spoke of great and sophisticated things. It made me laugh a little.
I always can't help it to hear what people are saying on trains and buses.
It's been a great time.
Thursday, August 06, 2009
Something fun 2
My lecturer showed us this video last week. It's really hilarious! The song is done by MrBrown, a Singaporean who does parodies on stuff. This particular song is on H1N1 Flu.
Tuesday, August 04, 2009
More ramblings on Harry Potter
This should probably be the last entry I made on this, unless I read some more reviews and have things to bring up.
Let's start by saying this, "I'm glad that before I watched the movie, I read some good reviews and ratings." I'm an easily influenced person, however, that does not means that I've no spine. It's just that I take people's opinions seriously, too much, sometimes, that it jeopardises my enjoyment of things.
After watching HBP, it's surprisingly good. As I said before, it's so much better than the last 3 films put together so it's great in my book. This is my honest opinion, without anyone influencing it.
However, I don't know what's the reason, perhaps my perspective of things, bad/not-so-good reviews began appearing. It bugs me, get on my nerves at times. Everyone has the right to say what they want. A coin has two sides. I, too, have the right to stop reading all their thoughts. So, why am I giving myself a hard time, I have no idea.
I can always just click the red X.
Perhaps, I like to read their opinion on things. We're readers of the books afterall. Perhaps, I want to see how different people from different countries see things differently. And it's too tempting to let it pass.
Anyway, this thought has been swirling inside my mind for quite sometime, I just don't have the inspiration to put in down.
My opinion has not changed, and I've got to stop reading reviews about HBP. I mean it this time. The film has been made, what opinion of it doesn't matter.
If for any reason, I can always rely on the books to keep me happy, which reminds me of another issue.
I found out that actually there's a part, I don't know how big, of the readers that hated/dislike Half-Blood Prince and Deathly Hallows the books.
It renders me speechless, really. I thought the 2 books are nicely done and the plots are intriguing. Yes, there are times when it got a little "out-of-hand". But this is fiction!
If there's a book I didn't quite like, it is Order of the Phoenix. It's a little long and draggy for me.
Oh well, an author can't please everyone. That is why I don't put my ideas in public. I'll just keep mulling over it, if someone criticise my work.
J.K Rowling gives us some great books to pass the childhood years. It's been nearly 8 years since I started reading Harry Potter. I grow up with the book series, pre-ordering the books months before the debut.
For that accomplishment, a toast for her, for her imagination, for her courage.
Sighing off.
Sunday, August 02, 2009
Things that fascinate and terrify
-Saturday, August 01, 2009
Ramblings
Inspiration has not hit yet but I really need to write down what's going on.
Last Sunday 26th July, I and my cousin, together with the family and relatives went to Ying Fo Fui Kun Scholarship Award ceremony. It's this Hakka clan association which my grandparents are part of.
Anyway, I received instant cash for my good results. I've already treated my family to Sakae Sushi in which I said I'll pay $60 and my father will pay the extras.
Tuesday's HRM role-play was same-old. This time, I felt that we were better prepared. However, the teacher still said that we missed out on many aspects of discipline.
My thoughts? This is a 10 minutes role-play on discipline, which they didn't state a single thing on what we are supposed to do. How many aspects do they want us to include, hmm? We did on a single aspect which is progressive discipline. I can't understand why we have include everything in. Do they want us to act out the whole of the discipline notes? Yes, they will mark us on contents, but I thought that if we did the progressive discipline right, then it should be alright. Sheesh, I'm mad at this...
As I stated before, I'm glad to get rid of HRM. I'm happy that I didn't choose HRM. If I want, I can always take HRM when I leave, just not now.
Will stop here now.
Monday, July 27, 2009
The End
Few more weeks and I'll have burst.
Whee! I'm done with PBL 2 and I can only hope that the marks this time round will be a B. I think PBL is an improvement. We seem to have learnt our lessons. However, I have no idea if our project will be marked as late or not. We slightly toed the time... Crossing fingers.
Tomorrow will be the role-play on discipline and then I'll be truly be free. I'm glad.
Handed up my TNS reflective journal. Apparently, the country that suits me best is Belgium. All I know is Belgium chocolates are absolutely divine!
Really, countries which I'm interested in like UK, US, Australia don't match what I'm looking for. But of course, this is just a perception. It doesn't mean that if a country is more on the neutral side, all the people will be neutral.
So, the TNS teacher told me that he will be organising a 3-day stay in the Glocal Village in school right after exams. Hmmm, I don't wish to go. It's the holidays! I should be doing the things I want. Then again, if my friends are going, I reckon I'll go.
Saturday, July 25, 2009
More HP thoughts
They don’t have to put in scenes, sentences will be enough.
For example, in the film, Dumbledore didn’t show Harry the other memories concerning the other Horcruxs.
Besides from putting in the memories scenes, they could let Dumbledore tell Harry that he believe Voldermort has his Horcruxs in Hufflepuff’s cup, Nagini, Slytherin’s locket, something Ravenclaw/Gryffindor. Furthermore, Dumbledore never confirmed with Harry that he thinks that there is 7 Horcruxs.
This will set the plot nicely for Deathly Hallows.
The 2 crucial scenes that are missing are the funeral and battle of Hogwarts. It will be nice to show that Fenrir is a werewolf and maybe let him slashed Bill.
Harry should break up with Ginny.
The Apparition test scene should be included. How will they explain how in the world can Hermione, Ron and Harry suddenly know how to Apparate. Besides, apparition is the main form of transport in Deathly Hallows.
Good news, it seems like the wedding scene between Fleur and Bill is on. Angelica Mandy who played Gabrielle Delacour in GoF is confirmed coming back to DH. She played the bridesmaid for Fleur. Other than that, Stanislav Ianevski who played Viktor Krum has also signed on, giving further evidence that the wedding scene is on. I’m looking forward to the scene where Hermione is dancing with “dear Vicky”.
Still, I don't know what's happening to Blogger. I can't upload pictures, or put in colours...
*Holy crap, it's all Singtel's fault that all the tabs went missing. I do a series of checks and it seems that some people who are SingNet users also experience this problem. Anyway, it's back to normal, thanks to a self-help.
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Update
Anyway, TNS is over! Hooray! No more late nights in school and no more going to school on Saturday mornings! However, I do feel kind of sad leaving my new friends. I can't say that TNS haven't been a good experience to have. I even felt regretful that we didn't get to stay in the Glocal Village in the school because of H1N1.
The powerpoint presentation went quite well. I can only hope that my teacher will be lenient to us since we were the first group to present. Seriously, we seemed to miss out on things after the other groups presented theirs. Oh no... This presentation was liked quite rushed because we only had a week to do it.
I hope that I can get an A for TNS.
Cross-Cultural Psychology test is one big mess. I really did not know how to study for it. I hate this subject! Hoping to pass the paper... I can comfort myself that it's 20%, this means that the other components must be good enough to cover up this blunder.
Soon, exams will be upon us... and holidays will be here! This is the final leg to the end. 2 more projects to hand up and I'll be done with the loathsome Human Resource Management and MBS.
*Pardon for any spelling mistakes. All components are not working at all, they are not even visible!*
Saturday, July 18, 2009
Harry Potter HBP movie review
A French posterGreen for not-so-good stuff, blue for good stuff for the top potion of this post.
Spoilers ahead! Don't read this scene-by-scene rundown of the HBP film if you don't want to be spoilt.
Right, here goes, I'm trying my best to remember all of the scenes in the film.
Overall, it's the best 'Potter' film yet! Kudos to David Yates who has improved since OotP.
Tom Felton as Draco is wow! He can really achieved that scared teenager within who is chosen to carry out a dark and difficult deed to save his family pride. It doesn't help that I have a soft spot for him since 8 years ago. The scene when he was breaking down in the bathroom is great!
Evanna Lynch as Luna is hilarious! She captured the wide-eyed girl so well. Love her dreamy voice!
Alan Rickman as Snape is great too. Although, he didn't have too big a role here.
Rupert Grint as Ron is too funny! Most of the funny parts stick close to the book and he did a good job in portraying Ron.
Daniel RadCliffe and Emma Watson both are good too. They really captured the teenager moments well.
Helena Carter as Bellatrix is just spectacular! I love the way she acted and skipped around taunting Harry. "I killed Sirius Black", insert *evil laughter*.
Jim Broadbent as Horace Slughorn is delightful. So is Michael Gambon as Dumbledore.
Hero Fiennes-Tiffin did well as young but 'different' Tom Riddle. It is one of the best scenes in the film.
The first scene showing the Death Eaters wreaking havoc in the Muggle World is quite lovely. The effects are just spectacular. All those Muggles screaming...
Details are aplenty in this movie which is to my taste. Arnold the pygmy puff sitting on Ginny's shoulder, Aragog the giant spider being dead, etc.
I love how Dumbledore took Harry to pay a visit to Horace Slughorn and his house is a disarray state. The magic used is wonderful and Horace is a delightful man.
Things that I don't quite like;
I've this big issue about why underage wizards like Harry and Ginny can use spells outside of Hogwarts when it is clear that it is not allowed. This is the biggest mistake made by the director/script-writer.
There is no appearance of Bill or Fleur! Another peeve of mine. I love this couple, especially towards the end when Bill got slashed by Fenrir and Fleur will stick with him. I hope that this couple will appear in DH because they are having a wedding scene.
I don't like how Tonks called Lupin "Honey". Tonks is supposed to be sad because Lupin won't accept her. It just speeds up their relationship.
The Burrow burnt by Bellatrix! The Burrow is only supposed to be burnt down in Deathly Hallows, I think.
There is no funeral for Dumbledore! Why?! That is supposed to be the saddest part in the story yet they scrapped it.
The scene where Snape called for Harry to be quiet before he killed Dumbledore is just weird and awkward. How many people "shushed" a person before killing someone. Snape should just Petrify Harry. Better still, stick to the book and have Dumbledore Petrify him.
Narcissa looks older than Bellatrix when Bellatrix should be the older sister. Also, Narcissa didn't break down in front of Snape.
No moaning Mytle comforting Draco! That scene is crucial because it shows that Draco is still someone with feelings.
Only 2 memories are shown to Harry by Dumbledore. No Dobby or Kreacher. No battle in Hogwarts.
Moving on;
I got teary-eyed at some parts and those are some of the best parts ever.
When Slughorn was telling the tale about how Lily gave him something magical and one day, the fish went missing and so he knew that Lily was gone. *Cries* That is so touching!
When Dumbledore was dead and Minerva started to pull out her wand and everyone followed to dispel the Dark Mark.
The one scene that scared me most was when the Inferi grabbed Harry's hand in the cave. Plain scary!
Love the Quidditch scene! The effects and graphics are really cool! It makes me feel nostalgic about the cool Quidditch scenes in previous films. Weasley is the King!
The awkward teenager moments featuring Ginny, Harry, Ron, Hermione are fun.
I do hope I cover most things here. I'll update once my brain in working again.
The green parts may be more than the blue parts but seriously, this is so much better than PoA, GoF and OotP put together.
However, for people who don't read the books, I doubt that they will understand some of the plot in here. The pace is fast for non-readers and non-fans.
It is only going to get worst in Deathly Hallows because there is no way they will spend the time to review the plot-lines when there are greater things to be done. "For the greater good" as Dumbledore puts it.
I can't wait for next year Deathly Hallows Part 1! Next year, I'll be more than ready for the movie.
I'm thinking that since it will be 2 hours plus for each part, there will be more than enough time to include some of the so called "not-so-important" scenes in the films.
What I'm looking forward the most are the Epilogue (19 years later), The Prince's Tale and the final battle at Hogwarts.
I'm going to cry like a baby when all the misunderstandings are finally cleared.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Since my project meeting finished early, I went home instead of going straight to Marina Square.
We reached Marina Square at about 4.30 and collected the tickets. My cousin was already there. It was weird that they don't allow us to go into the theater before 5pm when the movie was supposed to start at 5.10pm.
The whole theater was almost full. See? For a major movie like this, the only way to get good seats is to do advance booking, preferably 1 week before the movie came out.
After the movie, we went for dinner at Long John's Silver and brought my cousin home.
Good day and a wonderful night. Reached home and I quickly updated my facebook page and the Lex forums.
Friday, July 17, 2009
400th post
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Good results
I received my Business Finance results today. Yes, my friend told me that the last 2 MCQs answers were not what most people thought it was. Needless to say, I fell for the trick questions, so that's 2 marks gone.
Nonetheless, I got 17/20 for this test. So, that's 40% of A for my overall marks. Got to work hard for the end-semester exam!
What made my day, or rather night was the fact that I received the Transnational Studies test results. I barely spent time on it since I had Business Finance test that day too.
On Saturday, the teacher was telling me that I did well for the test and I was sceptical about it.
Eeek! I really did do well. 29/30! I was grinning when I saw the marks. I did wish he would show us the papers though, I need to see where I got wrong.
This TNS session had been great, given that it's the second last lesson. The powerpoint is looking good.
I've found a kindred spirit in one of my new friends. It's really surprising to find someone who share the same interests as me. And amazingly, I have no qualms about revealing what I like. I usually don't share what I like or is passionate about with others. Haha, it makes me laugh when I think about it.
So, overall, today has been a wonderful day.
Oh yes, this will be the 399 post, which means that the next entry will be the 400th! Should I wait till Friday to mark this significant "event"? Maybe I should.
Till Friday then~
Monday, July 13, 2009
Tick Tock
This is almost like the final leg to the end.
One last week before the Transnational Studies end and then it's hello to going home early again. I do feel a twinge of reluctance to leave my newly-made friends behind. I may complain but the sessions are actually quite cool.
Access Test has been great. I've been practicing the mock test so many times and doing trial-and-error for the report. At last, my efforts paid off. I got 14/15 for the paper!
Last Saturday, I had 2 tests; Business Finance and TNS. No wonder I didn't have time to update because I was doing last minute studying again. I barely touched TNS. All my attentions were focused on Business Finance.
I booked tickets to Harry Potter HBP! Eeek! I'm so excited over it! 4 more days!
It's really too bad that my cousin can't come along. I really want to watch it with her. Never mind, there's still New Moon the movie and it's during the holidays. I really hope she can make it to the first screening.
So, now, I'm watching with my family and my other cousin. I booked what I considered the "best seats " in the theater. It's at Marina Square.
No spoilers for me until I've watch it. That's particularly one reason why I don't want to wait. By then, spoilers and critics will be out and unless I hide myself in a hole, I can't get away from the media. I'm going to be the one giving my opinion about the movie instead of the other way round. I don't want my mind to be "polluted".
The other reason is to bask in the excitement surrounding the franchise.
Which brings me to another point. I'm jealous at the fans who get a chance to be at the Harry Potter HBP premier in New York and London. That is the place I want to go! I may not like crowds but what I would give to be at the premier...
The life in Singapore is just so mundane and "back". Without the internet, we are basically living in the yesterday's news.
*Cries* I really want to see the actors/actresses up front and wear colours or shirts to support. This is the sort of thing I would do, if there are others who do it too.
I'm thinking, for the movie event, I'm going to wear something green to show the Slytherin pride. How sad that I don't have shirts that is green. The best would be to paint my nails silver and green, expect that nobody will know what that respresent...
Nevertheless, I'm already planning for next year's Deathly Hallows part 1 movie. I'm so going to paint my nails in Slytherin colours if I didn't do it this year.
I watched the Harry Potter HBP London premier and I wished I could be there. Love the interviews about the actors/actresses!
Till then~
Wednesday, July 08, 2009
Harry Potter rules!
These weeks, (or was it days?) had been hectic. I'm been toeing the deadlines for many things.
Since that things have more or less settle down, my plans is to post those long-overdue photos from Sydney and updates on my life on Friday.
The reason I'm making this post is partly because I'm so hyped-up over the upcoming movie event of the year: Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. Oh gods, I've never felt this way since Twilight the movie during 2008.
Adrenaline is pumping through my blood and I'm really jumpy, in a good way. I've to calm down though.
Was it because HBP is long-overdue since last year? Or was it because there are my favourite stars in it? Was it because I have this good feeling about the latest installment after being let-down by the last 3 movies? Could it be that aside from New Moon the movie which won't be released until December, HBP is the only movie that I look forward to?
With all the reasons combine together, it is enough to make me feel great and passionate and optimistic to last me through the school days.
The 2 minutes plus HBP trailer really rocks! I get these tingles whenever I watch it. Ooooh yes!
Draco has a really important part in this installment and I really look forward to Tom Felton's portrayal. Draco is this vulnerable character who got forced into big shoes he can't possibly fill. What makes me love this character is that Tom Felton portrays him and that the world isn't just black and white.
Yes, I admit I got attracted by the attractiveness. What can I say, I'm a girl.
Severus Snape is another character that I love with a passion. The love just got stronger when I started reading this really well-written fan-fic about the snarky professor.
At the beginning, I feel the same as Hermione does about Snape. I can see that he's not meant to be an evil character. However, the plot surrounds him became worst and at a time, I lost faith in him. After all, he did kill Dumbledore.
During the story on the Prince's Tale in Deathly Hallows, I cried. Snape is just this wonderfully tragic character whose love is so strong that he sacrifices his soul and self to aid his love's son.
I will surely get teary-eyed in the movie when DH is released, but that's another tale for another day.
That doesn't mean that I don't love the other characters. Hermione, Ron and Harry and many others are much loved too.
I have to start to read HBP before the movie comes! The plots must be in my head by the time I watch it.
I'm going to watch it on 16th/17th July 2009. I don't care. I'm going to share this glorious moment with my cousins and brothers. I'm going to watch it on the big screen at VivoCity or Marina Square.
This proves to be a problem because my brothers and cousins may have things on the days since it's school days.
Gah! I told my brother that he should skip his remedial and tell his teacher that he's going to watch Harry Potter. Of course, Harry Potter is more important than school.
I can't wait! There's just about a week left. I'm literally rubbing my hands in glee. From today onwards, I'm logging onto Mugglenet to view the latest news.
I realised that I like England side of perspective more. I don't know; maybe the British actors/actresses are more matured and sensible. The way they talk certainly put things into perspective.
Or maybe it's because the USA actors/actresses are always portray in the bad light or in the tabloids for doing something bad...
Will stop here now. Most probably, the next post will be up on Friday.
Wednesday, July 01, 2009
Insanity & oh well
I know that I said 3 weeks will pass quickly, but when you live by the day, it just seems like a long way.
This week is completely insane. I don't get proper dinners. I don't have time to do my things. I don't have the rest I needed. I'm wore out.
I start each day early and end each day late. I reached home in the night everyday! Even the working people don't have it that tough.
I eat muesli/chocolate bars for dinner. I'm pathetic and feel pathetic. I can't enjoy the fun times I have online. I don't have time to go to the forums, read other fanfics... The book I borrowed has yet to be read.
However, it's the little things that keep me sane and make my day. My favourite fanfics are updated and I had a great time reading them. I get to spend some time with my friends.
I'm kind of regretting joining TNS. Yes, it will be a good experience, but it just saps my energy.
I'm disappointed that I didn't get into the Director's Honour List.
I wasn't expecting to get in in the first place since I don't know of it. But then, my friends whose GPA are slightly higher than me got in and I didn't. Well, I really want to get in because I feel that my GPA of 3.63 is still within my standards...
That feeling is something like "what you didn't know of, that's ok. But, when you know of something and it didn't happen to you, the disappointment comes."
I'll really try my best to get in this year. Things aren't looking quite good at the moment, what's with the projects and all. And even if I didn't get in, at least my GPA must be maintained.
Monday, June 29, 2009
Sunday, June 28, 2009
Scream
The reasons? These 3 upcoming weeks are going to be hell! I'm in hell.
4 days of school, 4 days of going home late, with 2 days ending at 9.30pm. I don't care. Friday, I'm off, I hope. Gahhh!
3 weeks of endurance, huh? I can do it, before I end up in the mental hospital. One of these days, I'll end up so depressed that......
I don't even want to recite the things are getting due.
Give me exams! I'd rather take that.
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Musings & Oh The Horror!
But, not too long, I'll be envying those people who are travelling when I go to Changi Airport, again.
I miss the coldness and crispness of the air in Sydney! I miss Baskin Robins, whom ice-cream is just lovely. There are still so many flavours I have yet to try. I miss eating ice-cream on a cold day.
Next time, when I return to Australia, I'm going to Hunter's Valley, where the vineyards are. I'm going to get a kangaroo toy with a joey inside its pouch. I really want one of those.
Anyway, I got extra holiday in the end. Since Australia is one of the affected countries of H1N1 Flu.
I returned on 17th, Wednesday night, which means that I will only returned to school on Thursday, 25th. But, my course manager counted wrongly the days and told me to go back on Wendesday. So I did. In the end, he called me, and told me to go home.
Well, well, what a dilemma... It is a good thing, because I'm back home when I should be having lessons now. I just went for one lecture today.
Tomorrow, I'm back to school. It will be one lecture and the TNS programme.
Really, I can't understand why people have such a big reaction when they know that I came from Australia. Please, I may love the "extra holidays" that the school gives but people's reactions are starting to irk me.
I'm home for so many days, and I'm fine, so don't give me weird looks and asked why am I not quarantined. Hundreds of people are returning from affected countries each day, and you don't see every single one of them being ill.
And one more thing, in the affected country itself, everything is normal.
What bad luck! I was walking down the stairs and nearly fell, thereby, twisting my left foot. I'm walking with a limp now. And it hurts.
---------------------------------------------------------
Enough of all these. I'm really dead this term. (I thought that this term is where I could pull up my GPA...)
Gods, I can't believe the awful marks my group gets for the HRM PBL 1. 62%! And it's 20% of the whole subject combination! Worst still, there's PBL 2 with 25%! That's is altogether 45% of marks worth.
Actually, I can believe that.
I won't want to point fingers, especially here. Be it the group itself, or the familiarity or the toughness of the Problem-Based Learning 1, this was our first time doing it and being in this group. I can only guess that we didn't foresee this and that we didn't take it seriously.
PBL 2 will be different, at least for me. I'll put in my utmost efforts in doing my part and more. That being said, my resources are finite.
This is going to be a wake-up call for all of us. Hopefully. To look on the bright side, it's better this way. Better to get a rude awakening now and work hard next time, then the other way round, isn't it?
Seems like I have to rely on exams to pull my grade up afterall. To think, I was cheering at the prospect of riding on the projects due to the high percentage. I've forgotten that this was not my year 1 group I was with. It was at this time that I missed my old group even more.
Holy crap! With 20% being a C, I have to get a high A for my end-semester exam to cover up this blunder. At the very least, I have to get a B for the overall HRM grade or it's adieus to my three-point something GPA.
Gah! My GPA! My dream of going to study overseas, on a scholarship! Never had I been so in tune with this side of me before. I have my pride too.
Let's work hard and I won't have to see HRM again in my Poly life. Luckily, I didn't choose HRM as an elective...
I'm also sad to say that my MBS may be in deep water too due to implications. What am I going to do? MBS being computer-based is already a big problem. And now this...
This term seems all about exams. It seems to be wistful thinking that I can ride on the success of projects. Too much factors at stake here...
Enough of thinking what should have been and what could have been.
I'll stop here now. Pictures will be uploaded as soon as I have the time to do it.









