Miffed

I'm miffed. Not freaking pissed off, but just a little miffed.

Is it the stress getting to me or something else?

I know I am blessed with pretty competent group members. I know that I'm not that perfect myself. That's why you don't see me complaining until now. I have to admit I am a little angry at the work they are producing now, some more than the others.

One and a half years, I reckon our group is one of the few who have withstand internal conflicts and free-riders. But, of course, not all is rosy. I feel that we are just tolerating for each other's sake and to keep the peace at large.

I am certainly tolerating some of them and thankfully, this matter will just stop here since this is the last term and the last week. Besides, it's not as if they are free-riders or do not do work at all. And they are useful in certain tasks I am not good in, so I can hardly complain, can I?

Perhaps, I would feel that some are a bit clueless. Or maybe my mind whirl too fast for their own good. I don't understand why I have to keep repeating myself and they still don't get the gist of the point. I remembered it was the same in the past and luckily, I insisted the project to be done that way and look what I got myself, a distinction.

I'm not saying that I am always right or infallible. On the contrary, I depend on them too. I can't do it without them and neither can they do it without me.

Sighs, only 4 more days. Correction, only 3 more days till the last project!

I can only keep my comments to myself. And this thought chilled me, I still have group work to look forward to in University and god knows I won't be so lucky to score responsible and competent group members every single time.

Somehow, I was never the same after internship.

Wish: USA

Ok, I really, really want to go to USA once I graduated from Poly. Like seriously.

I have been looking forward to this trip since last year and have save quite a sum for it. All the money I earn from my work and internship are in the bank, waiting to be spent.

It's now or never. I don't mean for it to sound so morbid but it's true. This is a good time to just "let down my hair" and be sinful for a couple of weeks. You would think that after more than 13 years of schooling and stress, I deserve that two weeks vacation.

Anyway, I am not intending to use the parents' money for this trip. Everything will come from my own pocket and it will be sweet.

When will I ever get the time and spirit to truly enjoy myself again? University is not going to be a blast and it only means more stress to come once the term starts. After that, perhaps there will be time for a graduation trip and then it's out to the working world.

And you know what happens when you have a real job - no more holidays! All you get are public holidays and 14 days of leave. But when you are old, going on a trip seems to be a drag?

Recently, I and a couple of friends were lamenting how difficult Life is. Truly, when you are this young, with a long future in front of you, you have to wonder how to make it right.

To project it to the future, how can we cramp University, work and getting hitched into the 10 years before hitting 30? To me, 30 is considered old, in a way. As a friend puts it, by 30, she wants to accomplish something.

Well, well, well. I guess I'm glad that I am not the only one getting all jittery and suffering from what is coined "quarter-life crisis". I used to think I worry and want too much. I am not really to grow up and be an Adult. I am responsible, yes, but to tackle all these issues, gods, I have no confidence in myself, at all.

So what now? I can always go to Orlando during the year, but there is nothing to cheer about. I am planning to use this trip to reward myself for all these years in school and all that jazz. Now, the plans seem to go down into the drain, and I don't know how to salvage it.

The big problem here is NO ONE can accompany me. It is too expensive, for one. And with me having no confidence to make this trip alone, I have no idea how to pull this off. Countless of people travel by themselves daily, I don't see why I can't do it. And what with the distance being so far away, I need someone by my side!

I can go to LA, but there is no one to accompany me to Orlando, Florida and this is the crucial part of this trip. It may sounds silly a reason to make this trip because of the Wizarding World but I don't see why can't I enjoy what I want.

I still wish I can make it. This will be the greatest thing I done for myself. I hope that somehow, I can go there, even if it's only one or two days in Orlando.

I want to shop till I drop too. Shop and sightsee, oh please. I can always find my friend in LA and then travel to Orlando by myself and stay inside Universal Studios where it is deem safer. The only downside is that I won't be able to venture outside of Universal Studios.

Truth is, I only have enough to make this one trip, and make it memorable I shall. After that, it's saving all the way till I can go for my University graduation trip.

There is simply no second chance. This is why I am in such a dilemma. I want to seriously enjoy myself, do the things I want and plan to do. If there is a compromise, it depends on what it shall be.

Hiatus

Hiatus again, I know.


Life is hectic, or should I say, school is hectic. There's only less than a month before this all ends. And then what?


It's Lunar New Year again! I'm so glad that I get this small break in the middle of the week, no less.


I had no classes on Wednesday so it's an extra day off for me. The best thing is, the weather cleared up as soon as the first day of the new year rolled in. How awesome is that?


Lunar new year's eve reunion dinner is an annual affair of steamboat. I look forward to this day every year, partly because it is the only time we get to eat steamboat. After the satisfying dinner, we watched Red Cliff and received red packets from the adults.


The first day of the new year started the same as every year. There were only a few houses to visit and we went to my cousin's house afterwards. Dinner was KFC.


If there's one thing I look forward, it's the "binge-eating" and unhealthy food you shoved into your mouth. No proper food for two days made one missed normal dishes.


The second day was more fun as we went to Sentosa in the evening. Gods, the place was teeming with tourists from the region and it was too crowded for me. Went the Candylicious but ended up not buying anything.

All too soon, the chinese new year break came to an end and I can only look forward to it next year. Sighs, what will next year brings?

No Rest for the Weary

It's been a busy week and more to come. What else is new right?

This week, it's all about touching up on projects and studying for the mid-semester tests. I like to do things one at a time, but alas, the schedule hardly allows me to do so.

3 days of evening tests makes me a unhappy person. It means going home late, and seriously, 3 days of exams in a row?

I'm kind of in a blank, so there's nothing much to write on. There is no chance to enjoy the last semester of the polytechnic life.

Pre-U Jitters

Is it me, or everyone who face this?

I am graduating in 2 months time, gasp! The formal graduation ceremony will be in May but still, in 2 months!

Till today, I have not given much substantial thoughts on University. As much as I am paranoid, I still go by the concept of "living for the day". To me, it have been " I will think about it when the boat docks".

It's like secondary-tertiary drama again. People say "you only live once, so realise your dreams and lead your own life". However, there is also a saying of "you only live once, make the best out of it".

These two phases are different, no? One is saying you should be daring, dream and go far, fulfill your dreams to the fullest. On the other hand, you should planned out your path carefully, and not to make stupid mistakes.

Polytechnic-University is a phrase where it is the hardest to overcome. I made up my mind to go to a University when I was in secondary school, my goal is further cemented by my good results. It is not always smooth-sailing for me but I get by.

You think I don't want to choose what I like? For some reason, I find myself liking Economics and want to take that as a major. But, come to think of it, I think I'll pass. First, I don't have the confidence to do well.

You may think it's paranoid, but it's University. It's not child's play. It's not like secondary school where you can get through without much injuries, I know, I failed A Maths for nearly all 2 years until O levels. It's not even like polytechnic.

The fees for a semester in University is atrocious and I don't have the money to spend on finding my interest, thank you very much.

In the University life I envision, I don't want to slave all day long just to scrape a pass. As much as studies are concerned, I want to take breaks in between too. Some people are so good that they can juggle between friends, activities, studies, work and still score.

I am not that, unfortunately. I work myself off to get to where I am, which is not much.

Back to the issue of Economics. Generally, students agree that Economics is a hard major. But, they also say, if that's where your interest lies, you will have the passion to do well. To my horror, calculus and maths are part of economics.

What a bummer! I am hopeless in maths. I scraped pass A Maths, thinking I'll never get through that nightmare again.

I rather do well in something I have no interest in than to scrape a pass for something I am interested in. Really. To put another analogy, if you know for certain that it's a hard life you'll lead with someone, why do you still choose to marry him? Love can only get you that far.

Same here. I will only regret it if I make impulsive decisions. I used to make them in the past, but thankfully, I got out of the 'mess'.

Mind over heart. For too long, I have allow my heart to make decisions. I want to weigh the pros and cons of each potential decision before settling on the one that is the best for me in the long run.

Looking at all the courses, I don't know which to take. I am completely ruling out Engineering and Chemistry. Maths is out too, there is just something in me that can't handle maths, especially calculus.

We'll see, won't we?

Stuck

Another year. To go from an end to a start takes only a short transaction. But for a start to reach an end, wow, it takes ages.

Friday's night was a blast. We ate at Bakerzin at Jurong Point and played two rounds of bowling.

Sometimes, I amazed myself with my bowling skills. I do not have the strength to exactly swing the ball and roll, you see. My style is practically non-existence. However, I did manage to hit a score of 100, not bad for someone who play for a few times a year.

I still remembered that humiliating experience when I went for the bowling trial in my school.

After that, we went to TCC at Clarke Quay to pass time before making our way down to Marina Bay to be part of the crowds for the countdown.

The fireworks were beautiful, as always. It was a nightmare after that ended though, as expected that huge crowds were eager to be out and what was made worse was people pushing and squeezing.

I had my first anxiety attack of the year. Some inconsiderate people kept pushing and in my mind, I was thinking what will happen if there is a stampede. Or worse, given these unstable circumstances around the world, a bomb threat.

In the end, the roads that were cornered off by barricades were pushed aside by anxious people and we're literally stopping traffic. All the people, including us, flooded the roads, just like that. The traffic lights makes no difference as were the cars, since they were the ones not moving.

We got stuck in the middle of the road because it was another bottleneck in front. It was a traffic jam alright.

I witnessed a bus with passengers on it being pushed by a commuter and a couple of traffic police opening the road for it.

As most people swarmed to the nearby MRT station, we breathed a sign of relief as we got into our cars. Of course, we got caught in another jam but it wasn't as bad.

It was 2 am plus when we reached home. I can only imagine the conditions on the public transport. Phew, I was lucky enough not be one of the commuters.

The Year MMXI

Pop the champagne bottle!

It's a brand new spanking year, everyone! Though there is not much difference between the last day of 2010 and the first day of 2011, the new year stills seem to thrill.

Let's ring in the new year with deadlines, exams and oh, graduation. How lovely, if you get my satirical tone.

By the way, did I mention that my ex-boss in that godforsaken ex-company still owe me the very important performance appraisal? Seriously, what is wrong with his mind?! Is it that difficult to do it, and mail it to me.

I told him that I have definitely have to get it by this, no, last year. He gave me his promise. Hmm, from what I learn in contract law, there is a binding contract between us. The offer is accepted by both the offeror (me) and the offeree (him).

Now what? I sms-ed him freaking twice to remind him of the importance. What did I get? Nothing, nada, nil. The way he does things is starting to piss me off. To think I wrote good things about his company. Pheesh, I pity whoever is interning with him this year.

Gods, what is so difficult about sending a reassuring sms, or an email telling me that he has sent that letter. Is it so freaking difficult?! Huh?

30-35% of my grade is in that appraisal. Do you think I like being a "loanshark"? It does reflect badly on me, doesn't it? But what can I do? If I do things otherwise, I'll only be letting myself down.

I have come too far to let everything go to waste. I've been the perfect "servant" for 11 weeks, the last thing they can give me is to pass me back my appraisal.

I thought I can leave those memories in the past, but it seems to haunt me till today.

The Year Gone By

Woah, hold that champagne bottle! New Year is not here, not yet anyway.

Where has the year gone?! I wonder. It seems like I just read the newspaper about the The Aughties and write that post to celebrate 2010.

Looking back, 2010 is a year filled to the brim with events and memorable memories.

The inaugural Youth Olympics Games held in Singapore, now who can forget that? It was a defining moment for us as we stood in the stands at The Float singing the National Anthem and world youth athletes celebrated their legacy. We are part of history.

Riverdance at Marina Bay Sands is another first. Riverdance tours is bidding Singapore goodbye and I am so glad that I managed to catch it live, for the first time at the gleaming new Marina Bay Sands theater.

Not to mention, this is our first time staying at Marina Bay Sands, in a suite no less. The view from the Sky Park is amazing and now I see can why it is the new jewel in the skyline of Singapore.

I got into Director's Honours List 2010 which made the past year of hard work worth it. I have been waiting for that day for one year. To earn that certificate is more than what I deserve.

How could I forget the 11weeks of internship that haunts me till this day. It was, overall, a good experience but I wouldn't want to do it again. Now, that is one thing best left in the past.

On the entertainment side, 2010 earns special mention for "movies of the year". There is the start of an end - Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1, Eclipse, Rapunzel: A Tangled Tale, How to Train your Dragon, Alice in Wonderland etc.

There is also the grand opening of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter theme park at Orlando, Florida, World Cup at South Africa which Paul the Oracle Octopus got famous, the problems-packed Commonwealth Games at India and many more.

Orchard Road flooding, anyone? Where passers-by were trapped by knee-height muddy waters along the prized shopping belt. Now, that was memorable because up till that day, flooding in Singapore is close to non-existence.

Other more sombre matters to note are Mdm Kwa Geok Choo's passing - others would remember her as the late Mrs Lee, the Downtown East fatal slashing where apparently gangs are still thriving in Singapore.

Like always, I don't want the year to end. It's too fast, always too fast for me to play catch up. I look back and think, why? Year 2010 leaves much to be desired and yet, 2011 is not any better. For a start, the first 2 months are jam-packed of exams and projects submissions and did I mention, I am graduating.

White Christmas 2010

I'm dreaming of a white Christmas, and got the wish!

Except that we are situated along the equator, and that makes the temperatures up in the sky impossible for snow to form. But, we got the precipitation form.

Christmas eve was as awesome as always. I had to work till 6.30pm though, but that's alright. With the table groaning under the weight of all that food, we toasted to a happy holiday season. There was a brand new Christmas tree and of course, there were lots of presents under it. Santa has been to town.

We sang along to Christmas carols, and played games. We had to draw lots for the presents and had plenty of laughter.

Christmas morning came bright and early and we met up for a session of bowling at Safra Changi. I didn't play because I had my nails all nicely done up in pink with blue glitter french tips.

It was a wet Christmas alright. It was raining and drizzling the whole day.

We went to an Aunt's house to gather for another Christmas feast and rushed down to Plaza Singapura to catch The Chronicles of Narnia: The Voyage of the Dawntreader.

As always, like every year, Orchard was filled to the brim with revellers. After dinner at Sakae Sushi at Orchard Central, we waited till the rain stopped before strolling down Orchard Road to soak in the yuletide spirit and take in the lights.

After that, we had a coffee break at TCC and just in time to be in the shelter before the downpour begun. It will be the perfect Christmas if only the rain took a solid form. Instead of being in the shelter, we'll be in our winter wear with snow falling on our heads.

I wondered what happened to those people behind us and those VIPs watching the open-air concert in the middle of the road, caught in the sudden downpour. I guessed it will be a mad dash.

All too soon, it was time to part and yet another Christmas came to an end. It was a great season, with lots of songs, activities and memories.

Cheers to years of glorious Christmases ahead!

Finally

Ho, ho, ho! I had finally had the interview with my ex-boss and I got my cheque. Phew, I thought I will never see the day. There's only the performance appraisal left. But, they say they will mail it by year's end.

As Christmas nears, I am sort of getting a whiplash. I dread it, yet love the whole season in general. Why dread, you ask? It's because it means a lot to me, to see it passed, means I will have to wait for another year.

Seriously, the prospect of the new year is not very tempting. I guess I dread 2011 more than any other years because I will be graduating soon. Like real soon. And I have been in a "quarter-life crisis" since I was in secondary school.

I want to continue studying, really. But, we'll see how it goes. I seem to remember vaguely the troubles I have when I left secondary school and going on to tertiary education.

Ahh well, I want to promise that I won't put any more depressing posts, at least till the end of the year. I'll try.

White December

By Canele

Only 5 days to Christmas.

December always move too fast for my liking. For 11 months, I lamented over the slow pace of the year, yet when December comes around, it just disappears in a twinkle of an eye.

After this week, it's the New Year's week and poof! 2011 is here. Arghhh, no! It's too fast, I have yet to enjoy myself fully.

I always hate the new year, it's a year of beginnings, expectations and hopes. And I dislike that. There is the feeling that you have aged one more year, and the world will be different.

It's another year to endure. I'm the type of person who looks back and thinks of the good old days.

We all dream of a white Christmas, especially in the tropics. But, as you know, too much of a good thing can become a bad thing. Just look at the conditions in Europe now, I'll bet they are sick and tired of the snow.

Indeed, the heavy snow storms and blizzards wrecked havoc and chaos across Europe. From London to Paris to Belgium, international airports has to close in the busiest season. Traffic comes to a standstill and people are suffering.

Next week, I will compile a list of the interesting events that took place in Singapore and the days which are the most memorable in my life.

Not Amused

I. Am. Not. Amused. At. All.

You can be sure that I am not a happy camper. I mean, not a peep from those in the godforsaken company since the 15th, which is supposed to be pay day. So, what now? Pray tell.

I have signed myself for their Christmas party thing, which is lucky they invite us. Wow, I never thought I will see this day. *Roll eyes* I signed myself up so that I can have this chance to get things over and done with. At least, when you are face to face with those people, you can ask them and get the answers, or at least some sort of confirmation.

Why are they doing this to us anyway!? Any remote fondness I have of them is now passe. You are kidding me if you thought that I will be like a good little dog to go running back.

Like I said over and over again, if not for that project in which I have to interview an entrepreneur, I wouldn't have bother that much. No pay? I'll just let the liaison officer handle it. No appraisal? Tell the liaison officer.

Just because I have this little bright spot I have to erase, I have to grit my teeth to bear with this kind of nonsense. Now I know how those salespeople feel when people bang the door on their faces. How rude, just because you are "high and mighty".

I don't know, I can keep trying, but that just shows how desperate I am and I hate that feeling. I suppose I can look for a back-up, but who? Who is an entrepreneur, whom I know of?

Time will tell, for now, I am looking at this issue from all kinds of angles, thinking of different problems that could arise and how to solve them.

Tis the season to be jolly? You bet. Not.

Grrr

Grrr, I am really pissed off right now. And it's all thanks to that stupid company which I used to intern with. Right, the problem is that they still own me my pay.

I am angry because they did not bother to even message me to tell me that the pay cheque is out. What the crap?

Second thing is that I email the boss, wanting to have an interview with him for my project. Ok, I am the desperate one here. I want to get things done, as soon as possible. Therefore, I am pushing for the interview to be done pronto.

Not to mention, I have yet to get my appraisal. Gods, why are things so messed up? I hate it when things are left hanging. I really do.

Please, just let me do this according to what I want.

Flustering

It's a week to Christmas and I am in a fluster. It's all pointless worries, maybe. The year is ending and I have so much to accomplish, to do, to hand up. I have deadlines to meet, which stinks.
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The more I think about, the more depressing it seems. I can't even properly enjoy Christmas and New Year in peace. I hope to finish what I want to accomplish by the first week.
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I don't know, I need to get back on my feet again. After nearly 3 months of internship, which I have sort of lost track with, I can't find myself. Like my friends, I shared the same feelings as them.
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You CAN'T be a zombie when you are in school, that's for sure. Back in internship, it's all robotic and you can shut your mind out. When the sun sets, oh, it's time to go home and enjoy yourself before repeating the motion again for the next day.

I like school, I just don't like the responsibilities you have for yourself, the stress you pile yourself with.

I'm very bothered by the fact that I am relying on the company to help me in my individual project. Please, if not for that, and my pay and appraisal, I wouldn't have care about what they are doing or whatever.

All that I do, I do it for myself.

Commercialised Christmas

Who doesn't love Christmas? Not me, for certain. In fact, I love Christmas and it is one of my favourite holidays of the year.

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What's that not to like? The sights. The sounds. The smells. The feel. Christmas fills your five senses and it's everywhere!

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People have been saying for years that Christmas has become too commercialised. I agree but that is partly what I love about this festive holiday.

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The Christmas advertisements for various shopping malls, the streets all decked in in Christmas finery. The fake poinsettias and wreaths. Christmas shopping and exchanging presents have all but become part of the norm, even a tradition.

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I grow in an environment of commercialised Christmases. Besides, I am not a religious person so Christmas is all about chocolates, lots of goodies, sales, presents and being with family. I can enjoy everything at its fullest, from Ole St Nick to Christmas trees to presents to traditional Christmas songs.

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Don't be mistaken though, I love the idea of traditional Christmas too. You know, snow gently falling outside, logs smothering in the fireplace, sharing a toast and roasting chestnuts, building a snowman, having a real Christmas tree. I love all those and it's one of the dreams of mine to live this out.

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I want to celebrate a white Christmas, not what Europe is facing now though. But, when you situated in Singapore, the epitome of what Christmas is not, you have to make it work. No snow will be falling but we make do.

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Christmas always makes me nostalgic, as I have said over again. I don't know why but I just feel that another year is ending and I didn't achieve what I wanted. Somehow I feel a little excluded, like a person who look from outside at the celebrations going on inside a house. It's silly thinking but Christmas makes me feel that way.

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I make it a point to visit Orchard when it's near Christmas time to soak in this festive spirits. I want to see the Christmas lights and take in the sights of the wondrous displays of presents and sales. I love the sounds of Christmas carols in the air and the bags of presents that shoppers carried.

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Commercialism has never look so good.

Tangled Movie Review

Disney released this latest "princess" movie dubbed Tangled, or in the case of Asia, Rapunzel: A Tangled Tale to celebrate its 50th animated feature.

It has been quite long since I last watched a new princess movie. I mean, I didn't manage to catch The Princess and the Frog in 2009.

Tangled/Rapunzel is certainly a keeper.

The storyline has been changed and yet, strangely, I don't feel insulted. Rapunzel is one of the beloved fairy tales where the princess and the prince lived happily ever after. However, there is no prince in this remake and Rapunzel is so much cooler in here.

The plot has not been mangled till it lost the magic .

The animations is so awesome and detailed! I love the lusciousness of Rapunzel's hair and the 3D effects are pretty well-done. It is said that this film incorporated CGI with the old hand-drawn Disney Classic feel.

Although some people have mentioned that the songs are not as powerful as those in Beauty and the Beast or Pocahontas, I think that the soundtrack is one of the beautiful parts in this movie.

Mandy Moore has captured her role as Rapunzel perfectly with her delightful voice and singing. Zach Levi has also scored well as Flynn. Maximus and Parscal are too adorable, even if they do not speak.

I guess what appeals me is the new story-telling and the generally feel-good effect you felt. Though when they are singing "I see the light", my eyes do get a little teary. What can I say? Even fairy tales are capable of reducing me to tears.

UP has captured emotions brilliantly. Wall-E and How to Train Your Dragon break boundaries in the animation industry. These films received raving reviews and their soundtracks surpass expectations.

Tangled is definitely high up on the list of must-watch animated films. It just delights a person.

I cannot believed that Disney is thinking of doing the unmentionable - to stop making princess movies for the time being. That is preposterous, as echoed by many fans from all ages. We grow up with Disney classics, even those who are older now. Disney's princess movies are almost like one of its trademarks, just like Mickey Mouse.

The early movies of my life consist of animations and fairy tales. I hope that Disney will not forsake their legacy.

Riverdance at Marina Bay Sands

On Saturday, we went to Marina Bay Sands for a mini-holiday of our own.

Two weeks ago, I booked the 1 night Riverdance Package which consisted of 2 A-reserve tickets to Riverdance and a night stay at the Atrium Premium room. The whole package cost about S$589. It was worth it because those tickets would have cost S$150 each.

We got lucky again. The original room that we booked was not available and we got upgraded to Sands Suite instead. We also received a S$50 voucher to spend in the hotel.

The whole hotel is so grand although there are simply too many types of people walking up and down. The towers look impressive from a height and of course, how can we forget the view that is waiting for us at level 57?

It is too bad our room is located on the 5th level. It was too low to see anything magnificent although the construction of Gardens by the Bay is right in front of us.

The room is obviously beautiful and spacious. There is only one king-size bed but we got 1 en-suite, 1 bathroom, and a sitting area. There are two large screen TVs and a beautiful white bath-tub.

We changed and went up to Sands SkyPark. The infinity pool looks really great and I can’t help but to feel proud that Singapore has such a wondrous building. Being a Singaporean, I am too thrilled given the opportunity to be up there. It is no wonder tourists will gaze in wonder at this cleverly structured swimming pool. I overheard some people saying they don’t dare to swim in to pool as they may fall over.

Indeed, the feeling of the infinity pool is that it gives swimmers a sense of being at the edge. The design is seemingly seamless and minimalistic.

After dinner at Rasapura, we went to SweetSpot, a cafe selling an array of beautifully made desserts with fine pricetags attached. Since we were given a $50 voucher, we used most of it on 3 pieces of desserts.

My mother and I walked over to the theatres where Riverdance is taking place. We have one of the best views in the theatre, I presume. We were in the stalls and somewhere in the middle. I am so happy to see that the whole theatre was nearly occupied and there were many foreigners. Of course, most of the audience were adults.

Riverdance is a combination of elegance and strength. The beauty of the female dancers who show their daintiness and lightness of feet. The powerful moves of the male dancers. The lightings are awesome and the choreography is perfect! The accompanying live music suits the different acts to the tee. The mood grew infectious towards the end and the dancers were greeted with a standing ovation in the final act.

The best part of the whole show? The Prime Minister and his family were there too!

After the satisfying show, we went back the hotel room and ate the desserts we bought.

I slept on the sofa while my brothers slept on the floor. It was too bad I couldn’t sleep properly because I was without blanket.

The next morning, I woke up quite early and the Standard Chartered Marathon was taking right in front of us. Before we checked out, we went up to the SkyPark again.

It was truly a gratifying mini holiday for me. We got the better end of the deal and enjoyed ourselves tremulously.

Glorious End to Internship

The last of internship! Oh, how long I’ve been waiting for thee!

While I am very happy and relieved, I can’t help but to feel a hint of sadness. I would miss the colleagues as they have been good to us.

Goodbyes are always hard for me and yet, you have to understand, I am really happy that internship has ended.

On Thursday, after work, we went to The Cathay for a farewell dinner at Astons. We had to queue for about an hour just to get seats.

Still, it was great and when we were outside The Cathay, there was this giant snowglobe where people can go inside to take photos. One colleague insisted that we all took, though there could only be a maximum of 4 people inside at one time.

The 3 interns and another colleague were the first to go. I have to admit it was quite fun, we had to go inside one by one else the showglobe will deflat. The “snow” inside is, of course, fake, and made of pieces of thin plastic.

On Friday, the two of us interns received presents from the others. It was really sweet and cool of them to get us such lovely and personalised presents.

We each got a name-card holder with our name on it and a coin-clipper. Thankfully, we had something for them too.

Last week, we bought some goodies in the form of waffle sticks and chocolates while we were outside. We just didn’t have chance to wrap them up. I guess we surprised them too.

Alas, it turned out to be a busy for us during the last day of internship. We didn’t have much to hand over to the new intern from Singapore Polytechnic. I hope they miss us and the efficiency. I used to think that we double-up as their permanent admin/nanny.

The deed is done and the difficult part now is to write the report. They say this is just this beginning, but for now, the time has gone.

11 weeks. I have been waiting for this day to come for 11 weeks, and yet, strangely, the time seems to fly. I think this is best part about time, regardless of whether you like it or not, time will still pass and that there will always be an end.

Pathetic

I know I have been in hiatus for a week. I can't find the energy to do stuff, much less use my brains and type a post out.

Fridays are the worst. Thank God it's Friday? I doubt so. Ever since I signed myself up for work at night on Fridays, I have been thinking and thinking whether this is even a good choice to make in the first place.

I most certainly am not desperate enough to want to work for 2 hours on a Friday night to earn 10 bucks. I don't know how to explain, but let's just say I am doing a favour. The instructor is in need of people, so I go. The money is just an incentive.

If you think that working from 8 plus to 6pm then rushing to another workplace without even having time for a proper dinner is easy, think again. This is not the kind of life I find myself doing. I leave the house before the sun rises properly and only step into the house when the moon has long risen.

It's more than 12 hours of continuous working, no wonder my eyes feel sore. Gods, why am I doing this again?

No proper food makes me an irritated person.

I am thinking of not going for next Friday, since it will be the end of my internship, and I really want to celebrate it. We'll see how it goes, I suppose.

Another matter I want to rant on. Bus 58 is going to be the death of me, I thank the stars that I don't work at Ubi permanently. I am sure I'll go crazy by the month end.

It is peak period during the 6 o'clock rush hour. So I don't see the reasoning behind not deploring more buses out, especially since that place is an industrial area with only one bus service. I am sure that it will be better when the years are gone, but what about right now?!

It is stupid to wait for more than 30 minutes for one pathetic bus to take us 4 stops to the MRT station.

I know that it is useless to talk about it here. I should totally being this case up to LTA and SBS bus service about this useless system they are having. But, my rational is, I am not there for long anyway. It is just 5 more days for me and I'll not return.

Speaking of which, it's only 5 days away from freedom! The day I have ben waiting for is going to arrive! Like real soon!

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1 movie review

Cinematography (making of lighting and camera choices):

The scenes and backdrops are wonderful and gorgeous! I can almost feel like I am part of this, it will be so much better if this is in 3D.

Acting:

Acting has definitely step up a few notches. The trio are exceptional great in this film and the supporting cast beef the whole movie up.

Daniel Radcliffe does not look and sound so wooden as compared to the previous films. He really did well this time.

Emma Watson really did a good job. The torture scene with Bellatrix is intense and very real. The viewer can almost feel her pain by her screams. Her interactions with Ron are amazing.

Rupert Grint surpasses himself in this one. He provides the comical relief and yet proves to be wonderful in those more intense scenes. I love him in during the fighting scene with Harry as this shows that he can perform in various circumstances.

Tom Felton has a minimum screen time but I like the close ups of his face, the fear and uncertainty shown was portrayed quite nicely.

Alan Rickman too has minimum screen time but fans joke that this is the film that he talks the most in that single scene at Malfoy Manor. I take heart that we will see more of him and his story in Part 2.

Ralph Fiennes as Lord Voldermort is awesome!

Helena Bonham Carter as Bellatrix She deserves the honour of bringing insanity to her character. Her character development is one of the strongest.

Bathilda Bagshot – She and her scene are too intense and scary. It was a job well done by her. She creeps me out when she changed into Nagini.

Bill Nighy (Scrimgeour) is good in his role, albeit a short one. I love the way he talks.

Peter Mullan (Yaxley) did a great job as the Death Eater who was chasing Harry, Ron and Hermione.

Special Effects:

Dobby and Kreacher are great in the film, especially Dobby! The effects are natural and feels complete.

Plotline:

As much as everything is taken into account, the book-to-movie adaption is one of the best.

As this is a 2 part adaption, there are a lot more room and time to put in scenes that make a difference. Despite the changes and cuts, I don’t feel that I am watching a different story altogether and that to a fan, is extremely important.

My favourite scenes?

The whole movie consists of great scenes put together which makes this such a beautiful movie. Below are scenes which I like. But, exceptionally well-done scenes are Bathilda Bagshot scene, Minstry scene, 7 Potters, silver doe scene, locket scene, Dobby dying scene.

First and foremost, the part when Hermione obliviate her parents were well done and shows the sacrifices she made to keep them safe.

The 7 Potters scene provides comic relief yet has a sinister undertone. And how can I forget the chase by the Death Eaters? It was all very fast and action-packed.

I like the wedding scene when Kingsley’s Patronus came in and warn them that the Death Eaters are coming.

The on-the-run scenes are very powerful and convey the realism and rawness that the trio felt when on the run.

The Ministry scene was well executed and proved to be quite true to the book. The addition of some light moments such as Harry-Runcorn stiff walking and Ron-Cattermole reactions were a nice touch. Yaxley chasing them finished the scene wonderfully.

Every single scene at Godric’s Hallows was great, from the finding of James and Lily’s tombstones to the laying of Christmas wreath to Bathilda Bagshot. It was very scary, heart-thumping and creepy. This is easily the most frightening and hair-raising scene out of the whole movie.

I like the way The Tale of the Three Brothers was done. The animations seem mysterious and like Warwick Davis said “very Tim Burton-esque like”.

The silver doe scene is one of the hot favourites of mine, it was one of the well-play scenes in the whole film. I love the soft bluish glow of the doe and Harry diving down into the icy lake to retrieve the sword. Of course, Voldemort-Harry and Voldemort-Hermione are too great in the locket scene! The wraith-like apparitions are truly Ron's nightmares.

I really love the torture scene with Bellatrix and Hermione. It was amazing and so tense. And how can we forget the pivotal point in the movie? Dobby’s dying is as touching and tear-wrenching as the one in the book. Except that Luna didn’t say her speech and there was no “Here lies Dobby, a free elf”.

The ending with Voldemort getting the Elder Wand is just and a good place to end part 1 and begin part 2. It provides the right sort of suspense to start part 2.

Soundtrack/score:

The score by Alexandre Desplat is good and suits the different scenes. Many fans who are passionate about scores of previous Harry Potter films said that Nicholas Hooper and John Williams did extremely well in the scores. I have to agree with them as Half-Blood Prince and the first two films are my favourites.

I feel that the score is good but the focal point will on the last film as the battle intensifies and climax is neared.

Bad points:

Wormtail did not die! Need I say more? This is one of the biggest deviations from the book.

Kreacher telling of the locket story can be improved so much more.

There were other minor scenes and details that were edited out but those were not as bad as to destry the whole movie.

Good points:

I love that they add in the scene where Hermione obliviate her parents and wipe out her existence in that household. I wish that they could do the same for Ron though. I would have loved to see the ghoul.

This movie places emphasis on Harry, Ron and Hermione relationship and dynamics which previous films neglect to do so or take for granted. Little details here and there do make a difference in presenting the friendship between the three.

I especially like the newly added scene which shows Harry cheering up Hermione by dancing with her. It is such as sweet scene.

As they travelled through various places, the names of the casualties being announced on the radio is a nice touch to the isolation and hopelessness they faced in the battle to save the magical world.

I like how the crew keep the funny scenes in and add in details from previous books which were missed out in the past. I also like how the scriptwriter lifted chunks of dialogue straight from the book.

Overall feel:

Overall, the movie is very enjoyable for fans because we know where everything is going, yet at the same time, as this is an adaptation, we are in for surprises as well.

I love the rawness of the film, the emotive and heavy scenes coupled with light-hearted moments here and there. It is intensive yet not too overwhelming. It is well balanced and viewers know for sure that this is no longer a children book but that there is a war on the horizon and everything has changed.

Of course, this movie tugs your heartstrings and manipulates your tear ducts.

This is easily one of the better films in this movie franchise. I LOOOVE, love, love it! If I thought that Half-Blood Prince was good, then this is ten times better than that.

Ever since Chamber of Secrets, I have all but lost hope that another Harry Potter film could follow the legacy of remaining faithful to the beloved book series. Is this my favourite movie? Perhaps, I need to watch it one more time to make sure I do. If not this, then the last one will be on the pedestal.

David Yates, David Heyman, and all the producers and crew behind this success ought to give themselves a pat on the back for a job well done. It was brillant, amazing, and fantastic!

If non-readers and the average movie-goer feels that they are missing out on a lot of things, they have to realise that the movies are targeting fans. Read the books before watching the movies, nuff said.

Yes, I do realise that Part 1 is a little tad boring for average people and some fans, but take note that this is just Part 1! The book is divided into two parts and it is a no-brainer that Part 1 will of course contains less thrills. Wait till you see the full movie, Part 1 and Part 2, before making a choice that you hate it.

Magic is Might

One of the highest grossing movie franchises in the world, literally Warner Brothers' money tree.

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Harry Potter has ignited a spark in the hearts of millions of readers and a passion that was lost for quite a while.

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Harry Potter accompanied many during their childhood years and beyond, still many in their adult years. "He" makes worldwide readers and fans unite through the creation of fansites, world premieres and midnight parties.

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Harry Potter is J.K.Rowling's gift to us and we pay tribute to her.

The movies are a god-send. Imagination is powerful, but having the scenes play out right in front of you, now that is something magical. Movies convert even more people, some to readers, fans, others just for fun of it.

It has been eight years now since I become a reader and a fan and I never look back. I cannot imagine a life without books, Harry Potter being one of those.

To admit, I even imagine what would happen if Hogwarts and the magical world is real when I was young. It is all childish dreams but it don’t hurt to dream and make good use of the brain.

How I wish I can be part of the student body at Hogwarts, drinking pumpkin juice, hanging out with friends at Hogsmeade, sleeping on a four poster bed, going for Potions class, having a wand, sending owls home, etc. With magic, some things can be made so easy. Of course, I would still choose technology over magic.

Those who are not fans or readers will not know what is so appealing about this series. They scoff at the ridiculous antics fans did and laugh at the devotion and passion we show. But what they didn't know is that they will never experience such a phenomenon.

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To give them credit, perhaps some of them do not need such things in their lives. Perhaps they have "better" things to do. Perhaps, they don't even like reading and treat the movies as just another movie to watch for the year.

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On the other side, Johnny-comes-latelys will not experience the anticipation of each book release, the countdowns, the speculations, the wonderful times fans alike shared on fansites. I am not saying they don’t deserve a share of the pie but those feelings of the past cannot be felt now.

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All 7 books are now sold as a collection, a far cry from the past, when we had to build up our collection slowly. I would love that but it takes the pleasure out of it. Fans who got on the ride with Harry Potter since the start grow up with the young actors/actresses and the trio. We journeyed with them through the ups and downs of life and the magical world.

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I am glad and blessed that I am considered one of the pioneers.

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Harry Potter was and still is magical.

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Though the flame of Harry Potter dims; it will never truly go out because fans will find ways to keep the spirit alive. All else worldly aside, memories will never fade.

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I hope that my passion for the books/films will live on for many years to come. And even then, when I am feeling dull, there will the books to keep me company and let me relive the good ole days.

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Justified For a Spilt

Not justifiable for a spilt? Truly, critics remain critics. Critics aren’t a smart lot if they still don’t get it after so many years. They apparently did not read the books or take the time to understand what the whole series is about. It is not about entertainment with ridiculous and redundant wit.

I love how someone says that critics do not have the emotion bond with the movies/books and thus, not know the concerns of fans. And another say critics hate movies loyal to the source.

Deathly Hallows Part 1 is just the start to an end. C’mon, it is meant to be dark, despairing, raw and angsty. It shows the hopelessness and frustrations 3 teenagers felt on their own, with secrets to bear and heavy burden on their shoulders.

A spilt is justify here because there are simply too many important scenes and details to be left out for a, at most, 3 hour movie. I think fans wouldn’t mind sitting through a 6 hour movie but industry standards don’t make it happen. So we have to settle for the next best thing, which is to spilt the movie.

Deathly Hallows will be great, perhaps it will be a little tad boring in Part 1 but part 2 is where all the action takes place. Can you imagine not splitting it? It will be like a story with giant holes in it because of all the cutting of scenes, like previous movies.

It has been my dream since forever to watch a movie that is faithful to the book. I don’t care about how artistic or action packed that movie is, to me, a movie is good when first and foremost, it fulfils the criteria of remaining faithful.

We, fans for so long, matter most when we say whether that movie is good or bad.

Fellow fans on mugglenet couldn't have put their words any better. Here are some choice comments: “in a way I am even more glad they didn't like it because they felt it was more of a literal adaptation than the last few films”, “I think we truly are the ones that matter in saying how good or bad the movie seemed to us. We've been on this journey with them for nearly a decade so I'm sure most of us will love that there is a split.”

Mutually Exclusive

I've been thinking a lot. Just to make it clear, having a good experience and having fodder to write for report is mutually exclusive with liking it. A more apt comparison would be, enjoying a good experience is mutually exclusive to having a good time.

Why do I make these two statements? I have been thinking about this internship for a long time.

I know it is about having a feel of the working world. I know it is not about money but the experience. I know it is about being at your best behaviour to please others so that they can write a good appraisal. I know all these and blah, blah, blah. I know all the political-correct answers. I know life is about entertaining people.

But, don't you think it is hassle and a chore to live for others' sake? Don't you think that sometimes you have to stand up for your rights and freedom of speech? Don't you think it is tiring to look at people's faces all the time and worry about the consequences?

I do and I did.

I mean, I don't say that this internship isn't good. I guess I have the better end of the deal, because I could have been sent to a worse company. But, this internship is killing me, I repeat, killing me.

I feel out-of-breath with the pace they are going. That event they are having is bogging me down. I can't even properly enjoy my movie due to that darned thing.

20 Questions

I realised I can pretty blunt and honest when I want to. Ha, it's quite embarrassing yet at the same time, gratifying, because I can speak the truth.

A colleague asked us if we are happy that the internship is coming to an end and instead of forced laughter, I replied with a simple "yes". I don't think it is insulting whatsoever, perhaps it's blunt but at least I feel sane.

I have enough of entertaining people through the days. I know I say that I can't lie to save myself, but I am always diplomatic, answering questions with diplomatic correct answers. Sometimes, I just have enough.

Therefore, when it comes to simple questions like this, I can only answer what I want to say. In fact, if it is without consequences, I would have say more. But, I won't go there. At least not now.

I know I am not happy but I am surprised it shows. Does it shows? Is it that obvious I am feeling rather wrong and out of tune? The boss asked me a mind-boggling question today. It seems like today is judgement day indeed.

He asked if I was feeling stressed and was I OK. To admit, I got a shock, because as far as I know, I didn't post anything that revealing on the facebook page. Come to think of it, I have to say no, I am still hanging there and since this is not a full time job anyway, I don't have to think about when I am home.

Am I stressed? I guess so. I am feeling under the weather lately. Is it because of the insane weather or because of the rushing up and down for work, I don't know for sure. It can be a combination of all these.

I am fortunate not to be directly involved in the event coming up. Phew. However, this means that I have to do all sorts of stuff. This internship is becoming more like a odd-job labourer.

Next week is a terrible week but I am glad that I've Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows as an incentive. See? Now you get it why Harry Potter is so important in my life, because it keeps me going and never forsake me.

Nothing Worthy

Is it a good thing that sometimes I forget that I am in the middle of internship? I can't tell for sure. People may argue that it's too comfortable to even think of about but I beg to differ. All it means is that there is nothing worth remembering.

Whenever weekends or holidays come around, I will forget that internship or my workplace exists. When the whole thing is over, I hope to cleanly forget every, single thing.


It is not that I hate that place or its people. It's just that whenever I feel a hint of affection for it, I will be dealt with a major blow that ruin that image.

I can't wait till December the third comes around, because I know that I'll be free. Free from this horror. Whatever that comes next, I'll cross the bridge when I at it.

3 more weeks!

Booked!

Hooray, hooray! I booked the tickets for Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1 on Sunday!

It must be the first time that I managed to book tickets so early. I am pleased with myself though I am so afraid that my tight schedule would ruin things for me, not to mention my cousin and brothers.

Anyhoo, I am planning to go for another showing with my friends. This time, of course, I will have more choices.

GVmax is nearly full at the 7.00pm slot, I can't believe it! My first choice is GVmarina but the bad timings spoil it for me.

Finally, to mark the last 10 days to the premier, I'll end each post with a quote from Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows that I really like.

"The letter was an incredible treasure, proof that Lily Potter had lived, really lived, that her warm hand had once moved across this parchment, tracing ink into these letters, these words, words about him, Harry, her son." ~ Pg 150

Advance Ticket Sales

No way! is my reaction when I saw that Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows advance ticket sales is now on for Golden Village. How can it be?! Why am I so slow this time?!

For ages, I have lament over the slow updates of the theater. Now, it just caught me unaware! Darn it!

There are a couple of criteria I have when it comes to watching "movies of the year". For one, I have to be at Golden Village Marina or Vivocity. Another criteria is that I have to watch on that day itself, or settle for the next.

I hate the feeling of everyone watching that movie and waiting for my turn. Call it whatever you want, but it is just something I have strong feelings about. This is one characteristic of being a long-time fan, isn't it?

If I am situated at another country, say Britain or USA, I would have joined in with the midnight celebrations if given the chance.

Being in the middle of internship is a big blow to my plans, again. I can't watch the Deathly Hallows on the first timeslot available, and can only do it when evening comes along.

The timeslots on Thursday for GV Marina are so bad that I want to hurl. The only timing I can go for is 9.30pm and that, alas, is too late for me and my cousin.

Reluctantly, I want to settle for second best which is Friday, also 9 plus. Then, I saw an opening. There is a showing at 7.00pm on the opening night, at GVmax. I want to jump at this chance, of course. But I have to see my cousin's timing too.

The time will be very tight for me, but at most, I will cab down to the destination. It is a treat for myself, and all the troubles I put up for this past month or so. We'll see. I just hope that things will go my way and hopefully, I will book it tomorrow.

Now, you see, it's going to be worth it.

Saturday Woes

Oh gods, today was worse than I thought.

I had fun over the last week and now it's payback time. The amount of homework from each child is that many and we had to mark all of them, today. There were only 3 of us left to finish the work. Bloody hell.
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It's 8 hours of straight work for me, on a Saturday. I started at 9.27am and ended at 5.29pm. I saw this coming and my reaction is relatively numb over this.
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At least, I got pay by the hour. Oh, why am I doing this anyway? I keep questioning myself. At least, I won't feel guilty over how I spend. And I know I need the cash, if I am going to watch Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows 1 at least twice.
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Contrary to common belief, I do not do this just for the sake of money. Oh no, you can call me a chronic goody-two-shoes who is too responsible for her own good.

When I have to do something, I make sure I do it right. When something falls under my care, I have an obligation to make sure it works out right. That's how I am and I hate it. A recent example was the camera business. It's all in my previous post.
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I am seriously in need of therapy. I need therapeutic shopping. Actually what I need is a good holiday, free and easy. All I want is to relax and relive, is that too much to ask?
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I don't know which one of the two jobs I have now is worse. I can only console myself that regardless of what, jobs are temporary. If you hate it that much, shove it.
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Anyhoo, the thought of fulfilling my goal is comforting.

Too Good For My Own Good

I'm too pure and good for my own good. Why am I making this statement? Because I feel awful and guilty conscious over something like this. I feel like a little child, with hands caught in the cookie jar.
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I was a facilitator for today as well. I went to QiHua Primary School with the trainer and that programme was supposed to end at 3.30pm. Therefore, I was in a dilemma over whether I should go back to the office. By right, this is what the office staff told me, I should because there is still time.
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But, it is quite obvious that it is a no-brainer for me to return to office at such a late hour, only to go home a few minutes later, right? I fretted over this and turned this situation in my mind over and over again. It bothered me to bits.
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In the end, because of the timing, I stuck with my common sense and went home, not before informing everyone in the office of course. If it wasn't for the camera, I wouldn't have worry so much actually.
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Now you see, I can't be a Slytherin. My conscience prickles me if I ever thought of doing something easy and good for myself.
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With the assurance from my boss, gods, I feel so much better and at ease now. I can't believe myself, why?! Perhaps with exposure comes experience. I sure hope that I can be street smart and wise the older I get. I can't imagine being like this forever.
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I was bothered by the camera business. The camera ran out of battery and they had to use it on Saturday. I promised I would bring it back on Friday but now I had to make sure it was charged. This was the stupidest thing I ever thought of doing. I planned on waiting for the camera to finish charging before going home.

This was actually a very long story and nasty business. Fortunately, it turned out so much better than I expected, with there being an extra battery and the boss in the office on a public holiday (he practically lives there).

Bad Start

This week is a bad start of November. I should have known better than to get out of bed.

On Monday, I don't have to report to the workplace but had to go to 2 schools instead. I was to be the stand-in facilitator as they cannot find any SMU students for it.

It wasn't fun, as per say, but I wouldn't mind doing this once in a while. As I am still a newbie, they practically throw me to the sharks, I sit around and make myself useful from time to time. Otherwise, I just took photographs of the on-goings.

There is no briefing for us interns, as we are their last resort. I didn't know what to do or to expect. I am not good with students or children, and I am quite "wooden" in a way.

It was so awkward as the students greeted me with a salutation or "teacher". I mean, c'mon, I am barely older than them, especially the secondary school students. It is mushy and weird to put a label to my name.

Certainly, this is an eye-opener for me and this is what I want to experience during the course of this internship. This is fodder for my report, to be frank. I have a lot to write about this and of course, writing it down here just means that it will be so much easier for me when I start on the report.

I went to red-dot museum with Bartley students on Monday. At first, I thought that it will be fun, as I can get to enjoy a field-trip. Alas, there wasn't much to see at the museum, the 'normal' students lost interest after a while and even I can't really appreciate the designs.

Thankfully, I got to go home early after the programme ended at QiHua Primary School.

I already feel sick, rushing here and there. Still, I thank my lucky stars that so far, I did not encounter any real problems finding the different schools. I had brushes with bad luck, but still, everything went quite well. I hope to continue riding on this wave, until the end of this internship.

Today, it wasn't a good day from the start. When I was waiting for the MRT, I received this SMS that I or the other intern has to report to Bartley Secondary because the original facilitator couldn't make it. Internally, I groaned. Why did I have a bad feeling that something like this will occur?

In the end, I had to go. I was prepared to be late anyway, and should there be a need for me to take a cab, they better pay it for me.

I wasn't very late and those students are getting on my nerves. I can't take rowdy and boisterous people and this is exactly what those 'normal' students are. They fooled around and cannot sit still to listen. Even the trainer is at wits end.

This week, it's same-old for me, all I can say is, thank goodness the week ends on Thursday. I have never been so grateful for a public holiday until now.

A Good Day

Yesterday was a good day, more or less. We ate at Hans to celebrate a colleague's birthday and bought a cake too. But, it was a hectic day as we had to rush filing again.

In the evening, after a late log out, I went down to Changi Airport to meet up with the rest of the family and aunt as the grandparents were coming back from China. We dined at Astons at Terminal 1 and went for dessert at the Chinese restaurant next to it. The mango sago is just so brilliant!

I feel that we should do this more often. It's great to just forget all my troubles for a while and have fun. Too bad, I've to work on Friday nights starting from the following week. We'll see though, as I already said I can't guarantee.

Terminal 1 is so stuffy and packed nowadays, due to the construction going on. I know that they are trying to beautify the place but the on-going process is hardly worth it. Since I got use to the airiness and open-concept of Terminal 3, T1 just seems like a poor comparison.

My grandparents seemed to have a good time at Hainan. I suppose the treatment is different when a celebrity, albeit a local one, was part of the crew. There were about 200 tourists in this tour package alone.

While I would have baulk at the thought of so many people in one tour group, there are merits too. For one, the local people over there would welcome you with open arms. Imagine booking half of the hotel, you could just see the dollar-signs in their eyes.

A-waiting

19 days till Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1 arrives at the silver screens in Singapore shores. Of course, this is also the time where the movie is screened across the world, thrilling millions of fans and viewers alike.

The news of Deathly Hallows part 1 not being made into 3D disappoints and heartens me. It is disappointing to note that we’ll not be seeing this epic story given a boost with the magical touch.

However, between a bad 3D movie and a good 2D one, I’d rather watch the latter. It is heartening to see that the producers and the crew behind this franchise putting a foot down against churning out shaky 3D effects with the lack of time. This is what they should be praise for.
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Too many times have studios and what not fail to deliver the anticipated 3D because they just don’t give a care.
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November Dreams

Hooray, agony October is coming to an end! The countdown can officially begin for "numb" November.

Although, I must say, with public holidays, birthdays and of course, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1 all scheduled in November, I can hardly hate it. These are the only things that can make me happy.

I've kind of lose my fire over the everyday posting of the going-ons in my internship. After a while, it kind of gets old as the same old things happen over and over again.

I realise being an intern means you are pretty much a "dog". When the person throws the stick, you are supposed to run after it. Now, I don't mean it in the literal sense. I know the saying that a person will only treat you how you want to be treated. But, I am not in a position to negotiate or even voice out.

When things start to look better, things will go downhill after that. I have a new term to coin this period: zombiefied. I am not myself.

It is not just me who see this in the company. Even the newcomer can see it. The company, which supposedly dabbled in innovative and creative courses, is not so innovative and creative afterall. In fact, the system it adopts is a rigid and narrow one.

The whole system seems forced. They can't move out of their bubble although they tried. The result ends up being neither nor there.

They want to accept others' ideas but refuses to change. They have this thinking that "oh, you can go ahead and do it, I trust you". However, when you submit it, they will be like "no, you should do this, you should do that".

I mean, what is the point of giving free rein to someone only to dash it by wanting the final outcome to go your way. It's beating around the bush and they are just wasting everyone's time. You want it your way, fine. Do it yourself or just tell that from the start, for god's sake!

And the worst of them all sits at the boss seat. He is the one who started this whole "creative" and "innovative" business, but he fails in what he preaches. He can't see things beyond what he has in mind.

All I can say is, I am glad that I am a temporary staff. It's too stuffy in that sort of place.

November Hopes

This past 2 days had been great, almost to the point where my internship seems to be nothing but a dream. How I wish it is true.

On Saturday, after work, I went for a manicure. It's been too long since I went for one, and seeing that I just received my pay cheque, I wanted to treat myself. Alas, I can only go for conservative colours because I still have to work.

On the other hand, it's gloomy thoughts for me as I was asked to go to work on Friday nights. I mean, what?! I don't want to but I can't lie so I said I'll try. After all, if I arrived late, I'll just have to call and say that I can't make it.

Sighs, I do not do this for money, despite me saying otherwise. I just couldn't lie to save myself, although I do have my pride.

Anyway, the next 2 weeks will be kind of good for me, as I do not have to work on Saturday and the upcoming public holidays. Never have I been this grateful for public holidays!

Oh, November looks to be a eventful month, for the entertainment side. There is, of course, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1 to look forward to. I'm already trembling with anticipation over it.

On the 3rd of December, the last day of my internship, I'll exempt myself from Kumon because I want to celebrate my freedom.

Today, my grandparents went for a vacation in China. We went to Changi Airport early in the morning for breakfast before sending them off with cousin's family. It was a fun day indeed.

Everytime I went to Changi Airport, my heart will give a little tweak as I watch travellers departing and arriving. I want to travel too. Even though I hate the idea of flying, I still want to travel. It is such great fun to put down what you are doing and just enjoy and relax.

Gloomy Days

I know I've been blessed in many subtle ways, but how can it be, when I only see gloomy days ahead?

I pray for respite and rain. I want to see a rainbow. I want to be alive again.

I never said I was happy, at least not in the last few weeks. I never want to be part of this insanity. I sure isn't living, as per say, but rather, just managing and surviving. It's truly a pain, I tried to be open-minded and positive, but it soon turn to dust. All those hopes and wishes, they have disintegrate.

I'm begrudgingly doing what I am told, I would never do this willingly. I drag my feet to work everyday.

Thankfully, as I kept telling myself, this is temporary. All I have to do is to endure for 6 more weeks and then I can wiped them out from my life. They will ease to exist.

I can't believe how disgusting they are. Stop it! Stop trying to be helpful or whatever backstabbing thing you are doing! Stop trying to suck away my weekends! I have given up my mind and body, but I will damned if I offer my soul on a silver platter.

It is said that if you have enough of a job and finding yourself dragging your feet to work, it's time to change that job. At least, this applies when you are young or have no obligations to make. When you can afford to be choosy, please do. It's that time when you ahve no mouths to feed, or to be the breadwinner.

I wonder if I would be that type of person later on. I wish I would. I am supposed to be young, free to experience different kind of jobs and settings. If I really hate that job, I what to shove it away and hop on to another one.

I guess I still have part of my humanity left, since I am defying them in little acts. Don't judge, because it means that I can be happy. It pains me to see myself becoming a living zombie. I hate the fact that I feel like a convict each day it is time to go home.

I Know It Is Not This

"I don't know what I want, but I know it's not this"

I came across this title on a book in the library and I fell in love with it straight away. It totally conveys what I want to say.

It was pay day yesterday during my internship. Phew, 4 weeks down. After dividing the amount by 30 days and multiplying by 25, I realised I am only earning S$14 per day, from 9am to 6pm! It was astonishing, really. After subtracting off transportation fees and lunch money, I'm practically left with nothing.

No wonder my cash on hand is depleting like there is no tomorrow. On the other hand, my bank reserves can only get higher. I suppose I am nearing my plan to save enough and more for a graduation trip.

On the other end of the spectrum, since I only have taken one part-time job so far, I can only use that to compare, I am earning S$5 per hour. Not much, by any other account, that is the unofficial minimum pay.

Still, today I worked for 7 hours, which means that I've earned S$35.

Damn it, why I am working my b*** off? Oh, right, because this internship is compulsory and graded. So, that grade better be worth it because it has to be equivalent to all those cash I've lost and given away.

One more thing, what happens if your boss wants to add you on Facebook? That is exactly what my boss did. What the crap? Why is he bothering anyway?

I'm hardly going to change my life over someone unimportant. Although, if I really do add him, I will take all precautions to prevent him from knowing what I've been typing. Then again, if I ignore him, what is he to do about it? Write in my report that I refuse to be his "friend"? Creep.

Anyhoo, regardless of whether I will add him or not, I will delete him from my list once this internship ends, because our contact ends there and then.

Fodder for Bad Press

I'll start with the good news, I don't have to buy the 2,000 stamps for now. Hooray! And I've definitely learn my lesson, I'll not be bringing extra cash to work anymore. Next time they want me to buy something, I'll be saying that I don't have extra cash on me.

It's time we put our feet down at this type of workplace bullying, nevermind that they will pay us back sooner or later.

Are they kidding me? It's awfully insensitive of them to assume that our cash are at their disposal. It's also presumptuous of them to assume we will be free to follow them to some event at night.

Anyway, today, I've something else to write in my report. I'm supposed to do some kind of write-up for each of the corporate gift and they were the ones who told me that I can write what I think is right.

Then, he came to tell me that he don't like my writing and I was like, "ok, how do you want me to change?" This is what I hate about him, he did not give any constructive feedback at all. He said "I don't know, just change". I mean, what the heck, this is the way I write, you want to change, fine, at least tell me where I went wrong or something. Don't just give such a non-solid feedback.

Besides, If you don't like it, then for god's sake, you can always edit it yourself or make changes. Sure, I want to learn but you are not making it easy for me! I think he just like his own style best so he might as well write all of them himself since it looks like he can't accept others.

In the morning, when no one was in the office except the two interns, we were talking about the bad things in this company and THIS guy and how loathsome he is. The company is fodder for bad press.

There are so many things that we can't take it and the blatant way they treat us, the interns. Don't blame me for being defensive all the time because you lot aren't better yourselves.

I may tolerant this guy but I don't respect him at all. Besides, I plan of wiping the memory of them by deleting them once the 11th weeks end. It will be nothing but a nightmare.

I have no love for the company, don't worry. The only thing I want is to get my good grade and good evaluation. Once the evaluation is handed in, I'll pretend we've never met.

Once the last day rolls in, I'll throw my hands up in joy.