With discipline = order = freedom
No discipline = chaos = imprisonment
So simple yet so difficult.
Sunday, October 01, 2006
Thursday, September 14, 2006
Nostalgia
While contemplating on what I should write about, I am listening to my favourite CD. I have not listened to it in a very long time and it's really great to be listening to it once again.
Music has a strange way of affecting a person's mood and emotions. It also has a way of triggering memories.
As I listen to the tracks, I find myself thinking about my past and the people that have come and gone in my life. Some were once my friends but are now strangers, some were only strangers but have become my friends.
There were many things that has happened to me in the past 30 years. (Yes I am turning 30 this year. It's quite scary actually.) There were good stuff but there were also some rather bad stuff. Some I have forgotten, some I wished I could forget and others I wish I could remember them always.
But looking back at all those experiences, I realized that I am who I am today because of those experiences as well as the people who were involved in those experiences one way or another. We are all shaped by the things that we go through and the people that we meet in our lives.
As I recall the faces of those that I once knew I am saddened that our paths have parted. But I suppose that is something unavoidable. People change, situations change, locations change, basically things change, nothing remains constant all the time. But it was good to remember such friends from the past and the good times we have had together from time to time.
Music has a strange way of affecting a person's mood and emotions. It also has a way of triggering memories.
As I listen to the tracks, I find myself thinking about my past and the people that have come and gone in my life. Some were once my friends but are now strangers, some were only strangers but have become my friends.
There were many things that has happened to me in the past 30 years. (Yes I am turning 30 this year. It's quite scary actually.) There were good stuff but there were also some rather bad stuff. Some I have forgotten, some I wished I could forget and others I wish I could remember them always.
But looking back at all those experiences, I realized that I am who I am today because of those experiences as well as the people who were involved in those experiences one way or another. We are all shaped by the things that we go through and the people that we meet in our lives.
As I recall the faces of those that I once knew I am saddened that our paths have parted. But I suppose that is something unavoidable. People change, situations change, locations change, basically things change, nothing remains constant all the time. But it was good to remember such friends from the past and the good times we have had together from time to time.
Monday, July 31, 2006
Another Quicky Update
Well I'm back in Singapore. I was surprised when I realized I've been back for more then 1 week. Had loads to do almost immediately after my return, hence the lack of any entries till now. I've got a bit a free time today so I thought to put up this short note.
The trip to Japan was a very interesting experience. I am having a rather hard time trying to find the right words to describe my experience in it's entirety. Interesting is about as close and as neutral as I can get for now. I had fun and I got to experience stuff that the usual tourist to Japan would probably not know of. But there were also certain incidences that I would have preferred it not to have occurred.
I'm not sure if it's a good thing or a bad thing, but this trip has kind of de-mystify Japan for me. Before I went there, Japan and it's people have always been somewhat exotic to me. The language, food and some of the more commonly known cultural aspects have always fascinated me. But now having gone there and stayed with the locals and interacted with the people, I find that the exotic imagery I had have been replaced. All things Japanese is no longer exotic but have become a part of the world.
Beneath all the famous Japanese politeness are a people that is not much different from you or me. Although they are generally more courteous and polite (especially when compared to Singaporeans in general), the politeness isn't found everywhere and towards everyone as I had imagined. And sometimes their politeness can be used as a mask to prevent their true feelings or intentions from showing. Oh well everyone is different and I suppose that is just one of the many aspects that makes the Japanese different.
Anyway I will try to edit through the 1200+ images that I shot during my trip and post some more up here along with some of the pix from the Korean trip.
The trip to Japan was a very interesting experience. I am having a rather hard time trying to find the right words to describe my experience in it's entirety. Interesting is about as close and as neutral as I can get for now. I had fun and I got to experience stuff that the usual tourist to Japan would probably not know of. But there were also certain incidences that I would have preferred it not to have occurred.
I'm not sure if it's a good thing or a bad thing, but this trip has kind of de-mystify Japan for me. Before I went there, Japan and it's people have always been somewhat exotic to me. The language, food and some of the more commonly known cultural aspects have always fascinated me. But now having gone there and stayed with the locals and interacted with the people, I find that the exotic imagery I had have been replaced. All things Japanese is no longer exotic but have become a part of the world.
Beneath all the famous Japanese politeness are a people that is not much different from you or me. Although they are generally more courteous and polite (especially when compared to Singaporeans in general), the politeness isn't found everywhere and towards everyone as I had imagined. And sometimes their politeness can be used as a mask to prevent their true feelings or intentions from showing. Oh well everyone is different and I suppose that is just one of the many aspects that makes the Japanese different.
Anyway I will try to edit through the 1200+ images that I shot during my trip and post some more up here along with some of the pix from the Korean trip.
Thursday, July 13, 2006
A Quicky (Japan trip day 6)
I have officially passed the half way mark of my adventure to Japan. It's been 6 days since I arrived and there are 6 more full days to go before I return to Singapore.
There are lots that I would like to blog about, such as my experience of shopping alone in Osaka central yesterday, the summer festival and fireworks last night, the sushi restaurant and the deer park (Nara Park / Nara koen) today, having sushi and tenzaru soba for dinner with the family and me cooking a simple Chinese dish for them tonight, and packing my all my stuff for the move into the hostel tomorrow morning.
But I'm really tired now and it's another long day for me tomorrow, beginning with the move. I'm visiting the Kaiyukan (Aquarium) tomorrow to see the only whale shark in captivity, along with lots of other marine life. It's probably going to remind of diving and how much I miss it.
Well anyway, I thought that I should at least post something up so that those at home do not worry. At the moment I am not sure how convenient it will be for me to connect to the internet from the hostel. So it might some day before I post again.
There are lots that I would like to blog about, such as my experience of shopping alone in Osaka central yesterday, the summer festival and fireworks last night, the sushi restaurant and the deer park (Nara Park / Nara koen) today, having sushi and tenzaru soba for dinner with the family and me cooking a simple Chinese dish for them tonight, and packing my all my stuff for the move into the hostel tomorrow morning.
But I'm really tired now and it's another long day for me tomorrow, beginning with the move. I'm visiting the Kaiyukan (Aquarium) tomorrow to see the only whale shark in captivity, along with lots of other marine life. It's probably going to remind of diving and how much I miss it.
Well anyway, I thought that I should at least post something up so that those at home do not worry. At the moment I am not sure how convenient it will be for me to connect to the internet from the hostel. So it might some day before I post again.
Tuesday, July 11, 2006
Eating Habits
Pork and Wakame Ramen. We had ramen for lunch yesterday. This particular restaurant is supposed to be so good that even celebrities have eaten there. But it's not the small quaint Japanese shop that I have seen before on Japan hour. It's a rather big restaurant and apparently it's also something like a franchise. The main restaurant is located on Osaka central's food district, Dotombori.Perhaps it's because the only ramen I've ever
eaten are in Singapore so this being the 1st bowl of ramen in Japan, I have to say it is rather yummy. It doesn't taste like 'Maggi' noodles at all. The pork slices were generous and tender. The soup is also quite tasty, although a little on the salty side.I have been trying for the passed few days to learn how to slurp my noodles or to eat with some slurping noise. But I just wasn't able to do it. Whenever I tried to slurp up the noodles, I always end up sucking in only air while the noodles remain dangling from my mouth!
Another thing that I have noticed while staying here is the speed at which they eat. The Japanese eat extremely quickly, especially lunch. I always find myself the last one to finish and it's getting somewhat embarrassing. I'm not used to eating my meals so quickly so it does get uncomfortable when I have to speed up so that I can at least finish only a few minutes after they are done. The only meal that they appear to eat a little slower is dinner.
Fukuda san explained that it's because since breakfast and lunch are eaten during the day, the Japanese eat faster at these meals so that they can get to work quickly (b'fast) and have more time to rest (lunch). But dinner they can take a little longer since it's the end of the day and they can relax. But I suppose when you form a habit of eating quickly for 2 out of 3 meals a day, it just becomes a natural way of eating.
Oh well, I suppose I will just have to continue trying to keep up as best as I can.
Monday, July 10, 2006
Farmer for 30 minutes (Japan trip day 3)
Yup that's right. I was a 'farmer' for about 30 minutes this morning. It was very interesting and actually quite fun. I was given a 'farmer's cotton shirt' to wear as protection from the sun and insects, a pair of boots as well as a farmer's hat. I looked quite hilarious in the hat and unfortunately there are no pictures of me in it since the whether was too hot to have it on for so long. We pulled several carrots, plucked some tomatoes (I ate a few straight from the branch and they were extremely fresh and sweet!), I plucked 2 brinjals (eggplant) and 2 zucchinis.At first when Fukuda san told me we were going to harvest vegetables, I thought that it will be a few others and we would be clearing several rows. But it turned out that it wasn't a commercial farm and the veges are grown only for personal consumption. So today we basically just collected enough for ourselves. And there were only the three of us there: Fukuda san, his mum, and me.
I actually quite enjoyed the experience. It's definitely not something that I can easily do again in Singapore.
Sunday, July 09, 2006
Pictures from Japan trip day 2
Today was a rather tiring day. It was more because of the heat then anything else. The heat and humidity. The weather is not that different from Singapore. I think the only difference perhaps is the intensity of the sun.
So I think I'll put up more pix than words tonight. Tomorrow will be another long and eventful day.
The main entrance that leads into a small courtyard.
The courtyard.
The inside of the local express train.
The seats are rather comfortable cushioned seats. Not the hard and somewhat uncomfortable plastic seats that we have on the SMRT trains. But I suppose that's because plastic seat would not be very comfortable in winter with temperatures below zero. The trains passes by in surprisingly close proximity to each other.
Takoyaki. One of the many popular local Osaka snacks that has become rather popular in Singapore also. But the taste here is much better and the tako (octopus) is a lot bigger than what we have in Singapore. 
300yen for 6 pieces. That's about S$3.90. The name of this store means roughly 'Japan's number 1 and biggest'. It was the most popular store that I saw while walking around. They were the only one with a long queue and 9 staff maning the little store.
Home-made Okonomiyaki with slices of pork and squid.
So I think I'll put up more pix than words tonight. Tomorrow will be another long and eventful day.
The Fukuda Residence: Where I am staying in the first 5 days of my visit.
The main entrance that leads into a small courtyard.
The courtyard.
The entrance into the house.
The main hall. For more formal entertainment and gatherings.
The inner living area. Here's where the family watches TV and relaxes.
The corridor outside of my room.
My room.
The inside of the local express train.
The seats are rather comfortable cushioned seats. Not the hard and somewhat uncomfortable plastic seats that we have on the SMRT trains. But I suppose that's because plastic seat would not be very comfortable in winter with temperatures below zero. The trains passes by in surprisingly close proximity to each other.
Takoyaki. One of the many popular local Osaka snacks that has become rather popular in Singapore also. But the taste here is much better and the tako (octopus) is a lot bigger than what we have in Singapore. 
300yen for 6 pieces. That's about S$3.90. The name of this store means roughly 'Japan's number 1 and biggest'. It was the most popular store that I saw while walking around. They were the only one with a long queue and 9 staff maning the little store.
Home-made Okonomiyaki with slices of pork and squid.Saturday, July 08, 2006
Konbanwa! Japan trip day1 part 2
Since I am staying with a local family I really feel more immerse in the Japanese daily lifestyle then if I were to stay at a hotel or even a traditional Japanese inn (called ryokans).
When we sat down for dinner it felt both familiar and foreign to me at the same time. It's a little difficult to explain. Perhaps the eating style (using chopsticks) and the food itself were familiar to me, but the language and the people were quite foreign. But they were 
all very welcoming. 
Dinner was really good. The mum (Okaa-san) made really tasty gyozas (Japanese meat dumplings) and the dad (Otoo-san) fried some yummy noodles with pork slices.
Fukuda san's sister's family came over from Osaka (about 1.5 hours drive) specially to meet me and to have dinner with us. It was a truly unique experience. At the rare times when I was able to communicate relatively well with any one of them, with the exception of the children, it was extremely thrilling for me.
Being able to speak Japanese and mostly importantly listen to it being spoken on a daily basis is a rare opportunity. Especially in such a direct and friendly environment. It has really given me a chance to practice what I have learnt in a very practical way. It is no longer a hypothetical situation created in a classroom. Here I am actually trying to communicate and understand local Japanese who do not understand English. Sugoi desune!
After dinner we all went out to a local summer festival held at nearby town. It is organized by the local Shinto shrine. Throughout the summer there will be several other such small festivals held at various places. It was quite similar to the periodic night bazaars (pasar malaam) that we have back in Singapore. But more colourful. It is like a cross between a small carnival (minus the rides) and the night bazaar. Since it was summer there were a number of girls dressed in the traditional summer kimonos called a yukata. Apart from the camera hanging from my shoulder and the language barrier, I felt almost like a local while walking down the streets and peering at all the various little stalls to see what they were selling.
The time here now is already 12mn. The sun rises at about 4.30am here and it sets at about 7.30pm. They have very long days compared to Singapore. So that means I probably should stop now and go get some sleep.
Oyasumi!
When we sat down for dinner it felt both familiar and foreign to me at the same time. It's a little difficult to explain. Perhaps the eating style (using chopsticks) and the food itself were familiar to me, but the language and the people were quite foreign. But they were 
all very welcoming. 
Dinner was really good. The mum (Okaa-san) made really tasty gyozas (Japanese meat dumplings) and the dad (Otoo-san) fried some yummy noodles with pork slices.Fukuda san's sister's family came over from Osaka (about 1.5 hours drive) specially to meet me and to have dinner with us. It was a truly unique experience. At the rare times when I was able to communicate relatively well with any one of them, with the exception of the children, it was extremely thrilling for me.
Being able to speak Japanese and mostly importantly listen to it being spoken on a daily basis is a rare opportunity. Especially in such a direct and friendly environment. It has really given me a chance to practice what I have learnt in a very practical way. It is no longer a hypothetical situation created in a classroom. Here I am actually trying to communicate and understand local Japanese who do not understand English. Sugoi desune!
After dinner we all went out to a local summer festival held at nearby town. It is organized by the local Shinto shrine. Throughout the summer there will be several other such small festivals held at various places. It was quite similar to the periodic night bazaars (pasar malaam) that we have back in Singapore. But more colourful. It is like a cross between a small carnival (minus the rides) and the night bazaar. Since it was summer there were a number of girls dressed in the traditional summer kimonos called a yukata. Apart from the camera hanging from my shoulder and the language barrier, I felt almost like a local while walking down the streets and peering at all the various little stalls to see what they were selling.The time here now is already 12mn. The sun rises at about 4.30am here and it sets at about 7.30pm. They have very long days compared to Singapore. So that means I probably should stop now and go get some sleep.
Oyasumi!
Konnichiwa! Japan Trip Day 1
Well I am in Japan! Yup I am finally physically in Japan. Actually in Kansai, Nara prefecture, Tenri city, to be exact.
The flight was great. (Stuff that I wrote during the flight are added at the bottom of this entry.) The first few hours here have been rather interesting. Met up with Natsumi for a while, but she had to go back to work. Had lunch with Fukuda san (I ate a very yummy bowl of Teriyaki Chicken don) and we had a good time reminiscing about his classes and lessons.
Right now I am at the Fukuda residence. It is a traditional Japanese house out in the countryside. The meeting with Fukuda san's parents were very interesting, to say the least, and a little bit embarrassing. But they are both very nice. The mum especially was quite amused at my command of the Japanese language, but in a good way. She was very happy and excited to meet me and apparently so is alot of other people. From Fukuda san's parents and relatives, to friends, and even right up to his boss's father. To be honest I do feel a little embarrassed at all the excitement that my visit has generated. The reason for the excitement seems largely due to fact that I am by far the first of Fukuda san's students from Singapore to come for a visit that is longer than 1-2 days.
I'm going to try and take a short rest now. But I will definitely take some pictures of the place that I am staying in later and post it up.
====
(Here's what I wrote on my flights to Japan, along with some pictures.)
My First Solo Flight (Friday, 07 July 2006)Actually I didn't finish the movie that I set out to watch. But I did finish the snack.
1st Leg
I am writing this while flying on Malaysian Airlines flight MH 610 to Kuala Lumpur. It is approximate 30 minute flight and we will be arriving in about 10-15 minutes.
Although it is short but this will always be my very first flight all by myself without family or friends with me. I would have preferred my first flight to be a longer one but circumstances was such that I had to take this flight.
I am actually on my way to Osaka Japan. But since I am flying Malaysian Airline I had to transit at KL.
Actually this is not too bad. The flight isn't too full so there is plenty of space and empty seats around. I was originally given a window seat but shifted over to an isle seat because there was someone seating beside me while there was so many other empty seats around. Since he didn't want to move I did.
I think we are making our descent already. My ears are starting to pop again.
The wait at KL International Airport for my connecting flight into Osaka is about 1 hour 45 min.
Need to shut down now.
2nd Leg
This is so exciting!! I am now on my flight to Osaka, Japan. Finally! Surprisingly the waiting time before boarding my connecting flight wasn't very long, which was great.
And I switch seats again. There were empty seats in front of where I was allocatedand again there was someone sitting beside me. So I switched seats after we took off. Now I have the entire window seats to myself. It's the first time that I didn't have anyone sitting beside me on a flight. And it's great! The space is great! Having my laptop with me is great. I am off to a great start for my first solo vacation. I'm loving every minute of it! This is definitely an experience that I will remember for life.
I know I should also try to get some rest. Especially now that I have more space than I have ever had on a flight, it should not be too difficult.
How would I describe this experience so far? Exhilarating and liberating!
The flight is approx 6.5 hours and by the time I arrive at Kansai International Airport it will 6.15am Singapore time, which translates to 7.15am Osaka time.
But I think the one thing that I probably need to keep reminding myself through out this journey it not to rush, panic and get flustered. I need to slow down, observe my surroundings more, enjoy the moment for what it is and remember it in its totality.
I should probably take a picture of my seats. Just so that I can have something to remember this experience by.
Ok I think will shut down now and enjoy the in flight movie and my yummy looking snack.
Wednesday, July 05, 2006
3 days to Japan!
Before I can really settle and really blog about my experiences in Korea I find myself busy preparing for another trip.
But I am not complaining as this coming trip, or rather the experience of this coming trip, is one that I have been dreaming about since I was a kid.
I will be flying solo to Japan this Friday. For the first time in my life I will be taking a flight all on my own with no friends or family with me. It is a little like a coming of age thing that got belated. And I can't wait!
But that's only part of the excitement. I will visiting a country that I have been fascinated with for the longest time also. The land of the rising sun: Nihon.
Although I will only be visiting Osaka and a few surrounding cities, I am beginning to feel that perhaps 12 days will not be enough.
I am counting down the days till I fly this Friday evening and set foot for the first time in Japan!
But I am not complaining as this coming trip, or rather the experience of this coming trip, is one that I have been dreaming about since I was a kid.
I will be flying solo to Japan this Friday. For the first time in my life I will be taking a flight all on my own with no friends or family with me. It is a little like a coming of age thing that got belated. And I can't wait!
But that's only part of the excitement. I will visiting a country that I have been fascinated with for the longest time also. The land of the rising sun: Nihon.
Although I will only be visiting Osaka and a few surrounding cities, I am beginning to feel that perhaps 12 days will not be enough.
I am counting down the days till I fly this Friday evening and set foot for the first time in Japan!
Sunday, July 02, 2006
Ahn Nyung Ha Se Yo!
That's 'Hello' in Korean.
I picked that up along with a few other phrases during my recent trip to South Korea last week. It was an interesting trip in a country that I was totally unfamiliar with. But thanks to our very bubbly, thoughtful and extremely fluent guide, Sonia, the whole trip was made alot more pleasant and memorable.
The scenery were nice but since we went during summer there was just too much green. We felt as if we were still in Singapore or somewhere in Malaysia sometime. The only times when we knew that we are in a different country were
1) when we tried to communicate with the locals without our guide,
2) when walking through a stretch of alpine forest with trees that don't grow in the tropics,
3) when sitting down for our meals (with the exception of breakfast).
On the whole it was a good trip. We managed to take some nice photos although they were not what we were hoping to get due to the wrong season and cloudy skies.
Will try to post up some pics along with more comments about the trip when I can.
I picked that up along with a few other phrases during my recent trip to South Korea last week. It was an interesting trip in a country that I was totally unfamiliar with. But thanks to our very bubbly, thoughtful and extremely fluent guide, Sonia, the whole trip was made alot more pleasant and memorable.
The scenery were nice but since we went during summer there was just too much green. We felt as if we were still in Singapore or somewhere in Malaysia sometime. The only times when we knew that we are in a different country were
1) when we tried to communicate with the locals without our guide,
2) when walking through a stretch of alpine forest with trees that don't grow in the tropics,
3) when sitting down for our meals (with the exception of breakfast).
On the whole it was a good trip. We managed to take some nice photos although they were not what we were hoping to get due to the wrong season and cloudy skies.
Will try to post up some pics along with more comments about the trip when I can.
Wednesday, June 21, 2006
Brain Oil
It's strange how sometimes it's difficult to re-start something that you have stopped doing for a while.
That's how I feel whenever I try to write an entry in here.
It feels like a rusty engine that needs some time and oiling to start running. And this is just what these bunch of words are I suppose: brain oil.
This reminds me of an advice that I read somewhere sometime ago about writing: you just need to keep on writing even if it's just rubbish or pointless. It keeps the mind working and thinking in written words and sentences.
That's how I feel whenever I try to write an entry in here.
It feels like a rusty engine that needs some time and oiling to start running. And this is just what these bunch of words are I suppose: brain oil.
This reminds me of an advice that I read somewhere sometime ago about writing: you just need to keep on writing even if it's just rubbish or pointless. It keeps the mind working and thinking in written words and sentences.
Tuesday, April 18, 2006
Back To Reality
*Sigh*
Well our cruise came to an end when we sailed into Singapore on Friday afternoon. We were already a little depressed (we always feel slightly depressed at the end of holidays. But then again doesn't everybody?) but to further highlight the mood we came back to a bleak skies and heavy rain. The roads on our way home was flooded and there was poor visibility.
It was a depressing home coming after an incredible holiday with constant good weather. There were a few incidents of rain but we simply sailed right through it. It was quite cool to see the patch of rain in the distance.
I think I can safely say that this cruise is by far our best one. But it wasn't without some mistakes. One of which was going off to Koh Samui.
After uploading the last entry we decided at the last minute to go out to Koh Samui afterall. It was about 3.45pm when we boarded the boat and took a 45min ride from the SuperStar Virgo towards Koh Samui. We were quite surprised, well actually more like shocked, when we arrived on the island. It was nothing like what we expected. There was no white sandy beaches, quite resorts or clear waters. Instead there was traffic, both motor and human, buildings, a concrete pier and not so inviting waters.
We found after walking about for a while that we were at the island's 'town centre'. There were a few commercial buildings, a stretch of street hawkers selling mainly food, restaurants, and quite a fair bit of traffic. After being in relative quiet, order and cool climate on board for the past 6 days, we did not welcome the heat, dust and noise all that much.
Not giving up on searching for the beach we decided to trek back to where we landed and ask the cruise staff. (We made the stupid mistake of just walking off towards town without asking directions.) By the time we walked back, found out that the beaches we seek are on the other side of the island and boarded one of the transports chartered by Star Cruises, we have already wasted 20min.
The journey to the beach resort took a whopping 1hr and 15 min! And along the way I was rather unceremonious hit by a chilling surprise, literally. We were not informed that it was the Songkran Festival (Thai water festival) and I got sprayed with a water hose from behind by a man on the roadside when we went past in our transport. We didn't realize that it was the water festival until I got sprayed again, this time by a couple of Caucasians with water guns. Although it was part of the festival and I was not suppose to be angry, I can't help but be slightly cheesed off for being caught unawares and unprepared. The hubby escaped being wet since most of the water got blocked by me. My first taste of Songkran, and I wasn't thrilled.
Anyway, we managed to arrive at the resort without further incidences but what a disappointment, again. The beach, thought quieter then the streets, wasn't white and it was lined with people (mainly tourists). We took a walk up and down the stretch for about 30min and decided to head back. It was such a non event. And on the way back we witnessed more water splashing, although thankfully this time the targets were our other companions on the transport. So after another bone rattling 1hr and 15min later we arrived back at the pier, eager to get back onboard the ship. But there was another 45min of boat ride to get through before we get back. All in all this entire excursion took close to 5 hours, with most of it spent traveling from one place to another. It would have been a total waste of time and effort if not for the view we caught of the ship as we were heading back.
Well at least our last full day onboard was a good one. We enjoyed a great view and workout at the gym in the morning, spent a leisurely afternoon lounging around, had a wonderful dinner (it was also the only time we got dressed up on the entire cruise) at the Italian restaurant, and ended the night with drinks and good music at the bar.
I will try to get some pics of the trip uploaded soon. Meanwhile it is back to reality.
Well our cruise came to an end when we sailed into Singapore on Friday afternoon. We were already a little depressed (we always feel slightly depressed at the end of holidays. But then again doesn't everybody?) but to further highlight the mood we came back to a bleak skies and heavy rain. The roads on our way home was flooded and there was poor visibility.
It was a depressing home coming after an incredible holiday with constant good weather. There were a few incidents of rain but we simply sailed right through it. It was quite cool to see the patch of rain in the distance.
I think I can safely say that this cruise is by far our best one. But it wasn't without some mistakes. One of which was going off to Koh Samui.
After uploading the last entry we decided at the last minute to go out to Koh Samui afterall. It was about 3.45pm when we boarded the boat and took a 45min ride from the SuperStar Virgo towards Koh Samui. We were quite surprised, well actually more like shocked, when we arrived on the island. It was nothing like what we expected. There was no white sandy beaches, quite resorts or clear waters. Instead there was traffic, both motor and human, buildings, a concrete pier and not so inviting waters.
We found after walking about for a while that we were at the island's 'town centre'. There were a few commercial buildings, a stretch of street hawkers selling mainly food, restaurants, and quite a fair bit of traffic. After being in relative quiet, order and cool climate on board for the past 6 days, we did not welcome the heat, dust and noise all that much.
Not giving up on searching for the beach we decided to trek back to where we landed and ask the cruise staff. (We made the stupid mistake of just walking off towards town without asking directions.) By the time we walked back, found out that the beaches we seek are on the other side of the island and boarded one of the transports chartered by Star Cruises, we have already wasted 20min.
The journey to the beach resort took a whopping 1hr and 15 min! And along the way I was rather unceremonious hit by a chilling surprise, literally. We were not informed that it was the Songkran Festival (Thai water festival) and I got sprayed with a water hose from behind by a man on the roadside when we went past in our transport. We didn't realize that it was the water festival until I got sprayed again, this time by a couple of Caucasians with water guns. Although it was part of the festival and I was not suppose to be angry, I can't help but be slightly cheesed off for being caught unawares and unprepared. The hubby escaped being wet since most of the water got blocked by me. My first taste of Songkran, and I wasn't thrilled.
Anyway, we managed to arrive at the resort without further incidences but what a disappointment, again. The beach, thought quieter then the streets, wasn't white and it was lined with people (mainly tourists). We took a walk up and down the stretch for about 30min and decided to head back. It was such a non event. And on the way back we witnessed more water splashing, although thankfully this time the targets were our other companions on the transport. So after another bone rattling 1hr and 15min later we arrived back at the pier, eager to get back onboard the ship. But there was another 45min of boat ride to get through before we get back. All in all this entire excursion took close to 5 hours, with most of it spent traveling from one place to another. It would have been a total waste of time and effort if not for the view we caught of the ship as we were heading back.
Well at least our last full day onboard was a good one. We enjoyed a great view and workout at the gym in the morning, spent a leisurely afternoon lounging around, had a wonderful dinner (it was also the only time we got dressed up on the entire cruise) at the Italian restaurant, and ended the night with drinks and good music at the bar.
I will try to get some pics of the trip uploaded soon. Meanwhile it is back to reality.
Wednesday, April 12, 2006
Dining Choices Onboard
I was thinking for a while after posting up the previous post about working out at the gym, and I realized how ironic this post would seem to that one since I am going to talk about all the food that is available. =)
To me, one of the many attractions to the SuperStar Virgo (apart from those I have already mentioned), is the variety of eating outlets. There aren't too many to choose from and there aren't too little such that you get bored. Also the menu changes everyday. Here's a list of all the eating outlets and watering holes onboard:
All meals at these restaurants are inclusive in the cruise fare:
- Bella Vista (Western & Chinese: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)
- Pavilion (Chinese: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)
- Mediterranean Buffet (Continental Buffet: Breakfast, Morning Tea, Lunch, Afternoon Tea, Dinner & Supper)
These are alternative restaurants that at not included in the fare:
- The Samurai (Japanese)
- The Taj (Indian)
- Noble House (Chinese)
- Palazzo (Italian Fusion: our personal favourite)
- Blue Lagoon (Asian: open 24hours)
- The Taverna (International Snacks: they serve an incredible Steamboat BBQ buffet from time to time)
- Cafe Gelato (Ice Cream Palour)
All beverages are chargeable onboard, and these are the bars:
- The Bellini (Champagne Bar: nice lounge music at nights)
- The Galaxy of the Stars (Not sure how to describe it: there is a dance floor and a band plays there at nights. More for older folks who do ballroom type dance.)
- The Taverna (Open Deck Cafe & Bar: great for cold beer during the day)
- Celebrity Disco
- Out Of Africa (Karaoke bar)
As you can see there are quite a few choices.
We went for the Steamboat BBQ buffet at the Taverna on Monday evening and it was Goooood! The prawns were big and fresh, the beef was tender and well seasoned, there was also lamb, turkey breast and chicken fillets. Variety of food wise it doesn't sound very impressive, but we only whacked the prawns and beef so it worked fine for us. Overall the quality of the food is not bad. The mango cream sago and fruit dessert was very good also. Unfortunately we were already so full we could only take one bowl each. I remember on our last cruise, I managed 2 bowls.
Yesterday for dinner we went to the Bella Vista for western. I ordered my first ever vegetarian main course. It was mushroom, carrots and cashew nut turnovers. Not bad actually. Aiyah, the whole meal was good. =)
Today there is going to be a poolside BBQ buffet again. It will be our 2nd one on this cruise, the first being on last Saturday. Looking forward to it.
Tomorrow is the Gala Dinner night and we managed to make a reservation at the Palazzo and away from the rest of the crowd. We missed dining there the last time because we were too late in making our reservations. But this time we knew better and made our reservations on Monday.
So as you can see, there is quite a lot of eating on a cruise.
To me, one of the many attractions to the SuperStar Virgo (apart from those I have already mentioned), is the variety of eating outlets. There aren't too many to choose from and there aren't too little such that you get bored. Also the menu changes everyday. Here's a list of all the eating outlets and watering holes onboard:
All meals at these restaurants are inclusive in the cruise fare:
- Bella Vista (Western & Chinese: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)
- Pavilion (Chinese: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)
- Mediterranean Buffet (Continental Buffet: Breakfast, Morning Tea, Lunch, Afternoon Tea, Dinner & Supper)
These are alternative restaurants that at not included in the fare:
- The Samurai (Japanese)
- The Taj (Indian)
- Noble House (Chinese)
- Palazzo (Italian Fusion: our personal favourite)
- Blue Lagoon (Asian: open 24hours)
- The Taverna (International Snacks: they serve an incredible Steamboat BBQ buffet from time to time)
- Cafe Gelato (Ice Cream Palour)
All beverages are chargeable onboard, and these are the bars:
- The Bellini (Champagne Bar: nice lounge music at nights)
- The Galaxy of the Stars (Not sure how to describe it: there is a dance floor and a band plays there at nights. More for older folks who do ballroom type dance.)
- The Taverna (Open Deck Cafe & Bar: great for cold beer during the day)
- Celebrity Disco
- Out Of Africa (Karaoke bar)
As you can see there are quite a few choices.
We went for the Steamboat BBQ buffet at the Taverna on Monday evening and it was Goooood! The prawns were big and fresh, the beef was tender and well seasoned, there was also lamb, turkey breast and chicken fillets. Variety of food wise it doesn't sound very impressive, but we only whacked the prawns and beef so it worked fine for us. Overall the quality of the food is not bad. The mango cream sago and fruit dessert was very good also. Unfortunately we were already so full we could only take one bowl each. I remember on our last cruise, I managed 2 bowls.
Yesterday for dinner we went to the Bella Vista for western. I ordered my first ever vegetarian main course. It was mushroom, carrots and cashew nut turnovers. Not bad actually. Aiyah, the whole meal was good. =)
Today there is going to be a poolside BBQ buffet again. It will be our 2nd one on this cruise, the first being on last Saturday. Looking forward to it.
Tomorrow is the Gala Dinner night and we managed to make a reservation at the Palazzo and away from the rest of the crowd. We missed dining there the last time because we were too late in making our reservations. But this time we knew better and made our reservations on Monday.
So as you can see, there is quite a lot of eating on a cruise.
Cruise-cersising
We were docked the whole of yesterday at Laem Cha Bang Port, about 2-2.5 hours outside of Bangkok. The ship was so quiet and empty that t felt as if about 90% of the passengers went ashore. The gym was empty, the pool was empty, during lunch the buffet line at the Mediterranean was only opened on one side and all the other major restaurants were closed. It was really cool.
And because there wasn't any one else at the gym, I managed to do my first real workout by myself without having to worry about being watched or bothered. Got a good run on the treadmill, did several good reps on the machines and free weights for my arms, shoulders and legs. And because I had such a good session yesterday morning, I went back to the gym with the hubby this morning for another great run.
Another reason why it was so enjoyable at the gym here is the view. The incredible view of the endless sea that stretches to the horizon as the ship cruises along. We got that view the whole of Monday and this morning, yesterday was a different but no less interesting view of the port.
The weather was incredible and since there was not a single person using the pool in the afternoon I managed to put in quite a number of laps without interruptions. Following that I also went for a step aerobics class and got another really good workout.
Both the hubby and I are having such a great time training at the gym we are rather worried about what will happen when we get back to our usual life and routine of work. *Sigh*
Oh well we are definitely enjoying every minute of it while we are onboard. That's why we didn't bother to go on shore yesterday or today (we are currently anchored about 45min by boat off Koh Samui). We rather spend the time relaxing and enjoying the leisurely pace on the ship.
And because there wasn't any one else at the gym, I managed to do my first real workout by myself without having to worry about being watched or bothered. Got a good run on the treadmill, did several good reps on the machines and free weights for my arms, shoulders and legs. And because I had such a good session yesterday morning, I went back to the gym with the hubby this morning for another great run.
Another reason why it was so enjoyable at the gym here is the view. The incredible view of the endless sea that stretches to the horizon as the ship cruises along. We got that view the whole of Monday and this morning, yesterday was a different but no less interesting view of the port.
The weather was incredible and since there was not a single person using the pool in the afternoon I managed to put in quite a number of laps without interruptions. Following that I also went for a step aerobics class and got another really good workout.
Both the hubby and I are having such a great time training at the gym we are rather worried about what will happen when we get back to our usual life and routine of work. *Sigh*
Oh well we are definitely enjoying every minute of it while we are onboard. That's why we didn't bother to go on shore yesterday or today (we are currently anchored about 45min by boat off Koh Samui). We rather spend the time relaxing and enjoying the leisurely pace on the ship.
Sunday, April 09, 2006
Cruising
We are now well on our way into the 2nd leg of our cruise holiday. We were back in Singapore for a 5-hour stop over earlier and now we are once again out at sea, heading towards Bangkok. It was great to stay onboard while watching the other passengers disembark. Perhaps it was because for them the holiday has ended but ours continues.
It has been really good so far. Totally relaxing and stress free. For example, while I am posting up this entry, the hubby is having a body message at the spa. =)
I simply love the fact that everything is all contained within easy walking distance. Our cabin is nicely located in mid ship and on Deck 10. So that means it is about equal distance from the cabin to most parts of the ship. To get to the pool it's just 2 decks up. To get to most of the restaurants it's 3 or 4 decks down. No fuss, no dust, no sweat, no rush. Perfect for a chill out holiday.
As the terminals onboard do not allow uploading of files, I will only be able to add some photos of the trip when we return back to Singapore on Friday.
Ok, now it is time for a nice dinner at the Pavilion and then a night movie at the Picture House. (By the way dining at the Pavilion is quite cool. You don't need to wonder what to choose from the menu. Food is served to you about 2 minutes after you are seated at your table. Truly no fuss and I love it!)
Will see if I can update again during the rest of the trip. (I'm being charged S$0.33 per minute for usage.)
It has been really good so far. Totally relaxing and stress free. For example, while I am posting up this entry, the hubby is having a body message at the spa. =)
I simply love the fact that everything is all contained within easy walking distance. Our cabin is nicely located in mid ship and on Deck 10. So that means it is about equal distance from the cabin to most parts of the ship. To get to the pool it's just 2 decks up. To get to most of the restaurants it's 3 or 4 decks down. No fuss, no dust, no sweat, no rush. Perfect for a chill out holiday.
As the terminals onboard do not allow uploading of files, I will only be able to add some photos of the trip when we return back to Singapore on Friday.
Ok, now it is time for a nice dinner at the Pavilion and then a night movie at the Picture House. (By the way dining at the Pavilion is quite cool. You don't need to wonder what to choose from the menu. Food is served to you about 2 minutes after you are seated at your table. Truly no fuss and I love it!)
Will see if I can update again during the rest of the trip. (I'm being charged S$0.33 per minute for usage.)
Friday, April 07, 2006
All Aboard
Yippee!!
In about an hour we will be on board SuperStar Virgo for an 8 day cruise!
Just thought to put in a quick note. =)
In about an hour we will be on board SuperStar Virgo for an 8 day cruise!
Just thought to put in a quick note. =)
Friday, March 31, 2006
A Long Overdue Update
Well it's been a while since my last post and I think it is time I started updating in here again. The therapy is much needed.
Several rather events happened during January and I have been coping and adjusting to the new changes.
Shortly following my post on making money online, the program that I was in started presenting disturbing problems. Unfortunately the problems gradually got worst and eventually the program was taken offline. There were many who were badly affected by this unforeseen turn of events, some of whom were people I know personally. I suppose I can be counted as one of the few fortunate ones as my losses were minimal. But the end of this program did put certain plans that I had to a grinding halt. So that meant a lot of adjusting and replanning all over again. Not to mention the time delay as well. All in all it was still quite frustrating. I would like to say sorry to Em and Merv for getting you guys involved. Hope you guys didn't get burnt too badly.
The start of this year also saw an unexpected turn in my career path. It led me to start on a journey of self-discovery and re-alignment. I needed to find something to do that I can call my own. And so while searching I rediscovered an interest and fascination in jewelry making and design. It started with surfing the internet, then flipping through books, and finally taking professional classes in proper techniques. There is a great sense of satisfaction when I complete a piece because I know that I created it with my hands. It can be simple or it can be intricate. The important thing is that each piece is put together by hand.
During all this change I was also put in charge of designing and renovating the hubby's office space and my own work-bench area. After the experience of designing the meeting area, this project went along a lot smoother and quicker. But it was still quite a bit of stuff to get done. Deciding on the layout, picking the right colours, shopping for new fixtures, shifting things out, painting the walls (which I did. Thankfully it wasn't a big room.), shifting the furniture back in, hooking all the computers up (my area again), and making sure that everything is working as they should be. After his office, it was time to settle into my own work area. This is still a work in progress as I am just a little tired of painting walls for the moment. There are other things I would like to do to the area but just not now.
There are other little stuffs the occurred here and there but its difficult to described them now after it's over.
Anyway, we are both very excited and looking forward to a much anticipated and needed holiday (especially for the hubby) next week. We are going on a cruise again! This will be our 3rd cruise, and it will be my 5th. Yup, I have been onboard SuperStar Virgo 5 times. Amazing isn't it? But I am still excited to go. Oh well what can I say, I love to go on holidays. =)
The hubby will be super stressed out from now till the day we set sail as he tries to clear as much work as he can. I won't be as stressed out as he will be, but I do have 2 major projects that I desperately need to complete, hopefully before the cruise as well.
So there you have it, what's been going on and what's coming up all in as small a nutshell as I can manage.
Several rather events happened during January and I have been coping and adjusting to the new changes.
Shortly following my post on making money online, the program that I was in started presenting disturbing problems. Unfortunately the problems gradually got worst and eventually the program was taken offline. There were many who were badly affected by this unforeseen turn of events, some of whom were people I know personally. I suppose I can be counted as one of the few fortunate ones as my losses were minimal. But the end of this program did put certain plans that I had to a grinding halt. So that meant a lot of adjusting and replanning all over again. Not to mention the time delay as well. All in all it was still quite frustrating. I would like to say sorry to Em and Merv for getting you guys involved. Hope you guys didn't get burnt too badly.
The start of this year also saw an unexpected turn in my career path. It led me to start on a journey of self-discovery and re-alignment. I needed to find something to do that I can call my own. And so while searching I rediscovered an interest and fascination in jewelry making and design. It started with surfing the internet, then flipping through books, and finally taking professional classes in proper techniques. There is a great sense of satisfaction when I complete a piece because I know that I created it with my hands. It can be simple or it can be intricate. The important thing is that each piece is put together by hand.
During all this change I was also put in charge of designing and renovating the hubby's office space and my own work-bench area. After the experience of designing the meeting area, this project went along a lot smoother and quicker. But it was still quite a bit of stuff to get done. Deciding on the layout, picking the right colours, shopping for new fixtures, shifting things out, painting the walls (which I did. Thankfully it wasn't a big room.), shifting the furniture back in, hooking all the computers up (my area again), and making sure that everything is working as they should be. After his office, it was time to settle into my own work area. This is still a work in progress as I am just a little tired of painting walls for the moment. There are other things I would like to do to the area but just not now.
There are other little stuffs the occurred here and there but its difficult to described them now after it's over.
Anyway, we are both very excited and looking forward to a much anticipated and needed holiday (especially for the hubby) next week. We are going on a cruise again! This will be our 3rd cruise, and it will be my 5th. Yup, I have been onboard SuperStar Virgo 5 times. Amazing isn't it? But I am still excited to go. Oh well what can I say, I love to go on holidays. =)
The hubby will be super stressed out from now till the day we set sail as he tries to clear as much work as he can. I won't be as stressed out as he will be, but I do have 2 major projects that I desperately need to complete, hopefully before the cruise as well.
So there you have it, what's been going on and what's coming up all in as small a nutshell as I can manage.
Tuesday, January 24, 2006
Breathe
Just close your eyes and take deep, slow, cleansing breaths.
Breathe in........ breathe out....... breathe in........ breathe out.........
Breathe in........ breathe out....... breathe in........ breathe out.........
Breathe in........ breathe out....... breathe in........ breathe out.........
Calm your mind and slow your thoughts.
Concentrate on just simply breathing.
Breathe in........ breathe out....... breathe in........ breathe out.........
Breathe in........ breathe out....... breathe in........ breathe out.........
Breathe in........ breathe out....... breathe in........ breathe out.........
Calm your mind and slow your thoughts.
Concentrate on just simply breathing.
Friday, January 20, 2006
It Never Rains But Pours
That proverbial saying can be so true at times. Especially with regards to bad news or unfortunate incidences.
Sigh!
It sucks to receive bad news just before a festive session that relates to you. And it really sucks when you know there is nothing you can do about it either.
I wish there was something I could do. Really I do. But there is nothing, zero, nada, zip, ziltch, that I can do but listen and watch as things unfold and happen before me.
It's frustrating. It's sad. And above all it hurts.
Sigh!
It sucks to receive bad news just before a festive session that relates to you. And it really sucks when you know there is nothing you can do about it either.
I wish there was something I could do. Really I do. But there is nothing, zero, nada, zip, ziltch, that I can do but listen and watch as things unfold and happen before me.
It's frustrating. It's sad. And above all it hurts.
Wednesday, January 18, 2006
Standard for Service Standards
I had a rather pleasant day today. Everyone that I encountered were friendly and helpful.
You know how sometimes when you go out shopping or to a restaurant or even to the bank, you experience bad service, unfriendly staff, staff who doesn't know their work and are unwilling to find out, and just a generally terrible service experience? Well I've had my fair share of such encounters before but I must say that today was a real gem of a day.
There wasn't one service staff today that was unhelpful, unfriendly or incompetent. I didn't feel like my time was wasted talking to them. Two person that stood out were the bank investment officer and the sales lady at the Bead Hub.
The investment officer was open to all my questions and his answers were not condescending. I did not feel pressured and his whole demeanor was comfortable. He was very quick to move on to programs that were more suited to my needs according to my comments. That showed that he listened and respected my inputs. He knew his programs very well and I was also rather impressed by his ability to write upside down quickly and legibly. I walked out of his office without feeling like I just wasted 1 hour of my time. The discussion produced some very practical and achievable options for me.
The other really nice experience was when I went to the Bead Hub to get some supplies. It was the first time I went to the shop but the sales lady was extremely helpful, informative and friendly. I wasn't made to feel embarrassed about asking questions, even simple ones. And even though I wasn't sure what I needed at that time, she was very willing to advice me on what to consider and so helped me to decide on what to get. She was also very knowledgeable about the items they sold, the techniques used as well as the various classes and workshops they conducted. I spent about 2 hours browsing for what I need and I only left because a) I was hungry and needed to search for food, and b) I was afraid that if I stayed there any longer I'd end up burning an even bigger hole in my pocket then I already have. :)
There were other service staff that I encountered throughout today: the bank teller, the other shop assistant at Bead Hub, the serving staff at Delifrance & Starbucks at Plaza Singapura. And they all helped make up a very pleasant day.
I wish that we could have more of such experiences when encountering service personnel. But unfortunately it is more unpleasant than pleasant in our little garden city when it comes to service standards.
Oh well, it was nice to have such a gem of a day and I'll try to remind myself that good service staff DO exist the next time I am given rude service and encounter incompetence.
You know how sometimes when you go out shopping or to a restaurant or even to the bank, you experience bad service, unfriendly staff, staff who doesn't know their work and are unwilling to find out, and just a generally terrible service experience? Well I've had my fair share of such encounters before but I must say that today was a real gem of a day.
There wasn't one service staff today that was unhelpful, unfriendly or incompetent. I didn't feel like my time was wasted talking to them. Two person that stood out were the bank investment officer and the sales lady at the Bead Hub.
The investment officer was open to all my questions and his answers were not condescending. I did not feel pressured and his whole demeanor was comfortable. He was very quick to move on to programs that were more suited to my needs according to my comments. That showed that he listened and respected my inputs. He knew his programs very well and I was also rather impressed by his ability to write upside down quickly and legibly. I walked out of his office without feeling like I just wasted 1 hour of my time. The discussion produced some very practical and achievable options for me.
The other really nice experience was when I went to the Bead Hub to get some supplies. It was the first time I went to the shop but the sales lady was extremely helpful, informative and friendly. I wasn't made to feel embarrassed about asking questions, even simple ones. And even though I wasn't sure what I needed at that time, she was very willing to advice me on what to consider and so helped me to decide on what to get. She was also very knowledgeable about the items they sold, the techniques used as well as the various classes and workshops they conducted. I spent about 2 hours browsing for what I need and I only left because a) I was hungry and needed to search for food, and b) I was afraid that if I stayed there any longer I'd end up burning an even bigger hole in my pocket then I already have. :)
There were other service staff that I encountered throughout today: the bank teller, the other shop assistant at Bead Hub, the serving staff at Delifrance & Starbucks at Plaza Singapura. And they all helped make up a very pleasant day.
I wish that we could have more of such experiences when encountering service personnel. But unfortunately it is more unpleasant than pleasant in our little garden city when it comes to service standards.
Oh well, it was nice to have such a gem of a day and I'll try to remind myself that good service staff DO exist the next time I am given rude service and encounter incompetence.
Tuesday, January 17, 2006
Finally... Mobility!
I am finally doing what I have always wanted to do: work on a laptop at a cafe while watching people go by. Having this PowerBook to work on is so liberating! I love it! Should have figured out how to work on a Mac as well as how to connect to the many internet hotspots earlier. Oh well it’s not too late yet.
Now if only I can get my hands on Macromedia Flash, Dreamweaver & Fireworks for Macs and The Sims 2 for Macs.......
Now if only I can get my hands on Macromedia Flash, Dreamweaver & Fireworks for Macs and The Sims 2 for Macs.......
Monday, January 16, 2006
Jane Doe
Jane loved going to the playground every weekend. Being an only child, there was no one she could play with at home besides her mother. So she always looked forward to going to the colourful and noisy playground so that she can find friends to play with and talk to.
In the beginning Jane was happy playing with the other kids and they seemed happy to include her in their games. All the way home and throughout the rest of the day Jane would excitedly tell her mom everything that she did and all the friends she had made.
But as the months went by, Jane noticed that slowly the kids that she thought were her friends started to ignore her. They formed their own groups and played their own games. Jane would silently stand by the side watching them and hoping that they would notice her and ask her to join them. She tried asking and at first they still allowed her to participate and Jane thought that all was well again and was happy.
As Jane listened to their conversations she found out that the other kids have been meeting up at the playground during the other days of the week and some of them have even gone to each other's houses would laugh and talk about things that happened which Jane was not aware off because no one had invited her to join them.
Jane felt really left out and wondered if there was something wrong with her or if it was because of something she had done. She tried asking some of the other kids but no one would tell her why. Feeling sad and unwanted Jane became reluctant to go to the playground anymore. Her mother was worried and tried to encourage her to go, but Jane would only cry and refuse to go.
So Jane did not return to the playground. One day, several months later, she met one of the kids that used to play with her and she invited Jane back to the playground. Jane wasn't sure but that kid said not to worry. And so Jane hesitantly agreed to go back but was happy for the invitation. She thought that she had made a mistake all along and that they really were her friends and had missed her.
As Jane approached the playground, she was both worried and excited. She felt relieved when the friend that had invited her waved for her to join them. The other kids seemed happy to see Jane again and involved her in their games just like old times. But Jane didn't feel comfortable and welcomed as she wasn't included in the conversations.
The next week when Jane arrived at the playground she did not step inside as she did not feel welcomed anymore. She stood behind the fence and looked in at the kids who once called her friend as they played and laughed together. No one noticed her there. No one waved her in. No one knew she even went there.
And so with tears in her eyes and hurt in her heart, Jane turned around and left the playground. And no one cared.
But Jane still missed the time she spent at the playground and the kids she used to play with. So from time to time she would go by and look in from the fence. However after a while she stopped going by. She finally accepted the fact that no missed her there and all have moved on without her.
She should move on also.
In the beginning Jane was happy playing with the other kids and they seemed happy to include her in their games. All the way home and throughout the rest of the day Jane would excitedly tell her mom everything that she did and all the friends she had made.
But as the months went by, Jane noticed that slowly the kids that she thought were her friends started to ignore her. They formed their own groups and played their own games. Jane would silently stand by the side watching them and hoping that they would notice her and ask her to join them. She tried asking and at first they still allowed her to participate and Jane thought that all was well again and was happy.
As Jane listened to their conversations she found out that the other kids have been meeting up at the playground during the other days of the week and some of them have even gone to each other's houses would laugh and talk about things that happened which Jane was not aware off because no one had invited her to join them.
Jane felt really left out and wondered if there was something wrong with her or if it was because of something she had done. She tried asking some of the other kids but no one would tell her why. Feeling sad and unwanted Jane became reluctant to go to the playground anymore. Her mother was worried and tried to encourage her to go, but Jane would only cry and refuse to go.
So Jane did not return to the playground. One day, several months later, she met one of the kids that used to play with her and she invited Jane back to the playground. Jane wasn't sure but that kid said not to worry. And so Jane hesitantly agreed to go back but was happy for the invitation. She thought that she had made a mistake all along and that they really were her friends and had missed her.
As Jane approached the playground, she was both worried and excited. She felt relieved when the friend that had invited her waved for her to join them. The other kids seemed happy to see Jane again and involved her in their games just like old times. But Jane didn't feel comfortable and welcomed as she wasn't included in the conversations.
The next week when Jane arrived at the playground she did not step inside as she did not feel welcomed anymore. She stood behind the fence and looked in at the kids who once called her friend as they played and laughed together. No one noticed her there. No one waved her in. No one knew she even went there.
And so with tears in her eyes and hurt in her heart, Jane turned around and left the playground. And no one cared.
But Jane still missed the time she spent at the playground and the kids she used to play with. So from time to time she would go by and look in from the fence. However after a while she stopped going by. She finally accepted the fact that no missed her there and all have moved on without her.
She should move on also.
Friday, January 13, 2006
Make Money Surfing : My Experience
Ok now after that earlier post without a point, here's something with a bit more meat.
Making money on the Internet by surfing sites.
(Warning: this might sound like an advertisement to some so read on at your own risk or click away at your own loss.)
When a friend of mine first told me about this program that he found where you could earn money just by surfing sites on the internet, I was skeptical. This particular program that he introduced me to offered to pay me back 144% of what ever amount I put in at the end of 12 days. All I had to do was to surf at least 12 sites everyday during those 12 days. And the minimum amount that I needed to put in was only US$6. It really sounded too good to be true at first.
But curiosity and the ever present urge to make more money got the better of me and I went to the site to take a look around. What was they said on the site is pretty much the same as any other 'get rich quick' sites around. But still somewhat intrigued I searched for more information regarding this program on the web and through other forums that discusses other similar programs. And what I found was quite surprising.
The industry that this program belongs to is called a Paid-to-Surf or Autosurf industry. You basically put in a certain amount of money which they call a 'membership' fee and you are required to surf through a minimum number of sites within the program for a fixed number of days. For each of the fixed number of days that you surf you are given back a fixed % on the amount that you have put in. At the end of fixed period, the program gives you back your 'membership fee' plus and an additional fixed %.
Example: The program says 144% in 12 days for surfing 12 sites. I put in US$100. Everyday during the 12-day period I get 12% of $100 = $12. By the end of the 12 days I will get back $100 x 144% = $144.
All the postings that I read on the forums regarding this site have been good news. They did start out with a bit of problems which is common with such programs. And a few people even labeled them as a scam in the early months. But the program have proven them wrong so far. Everything that I could find on this program was positive.
Well anyway after doing my home work I decided to take a risk and joined this program. All the while bearing in mind the golden rule when 'playing' with money: Only use money that you CAN AFFORD TO LOSE. And that is the mindset that I had when I went into this program. I was taking a risk with some rather hard earn cash and it will definitely be a pain if I do lose it. But at least it wasn't everything that I had. Meaning I can still afford to lose it should it happen.
Well it has been 2 1/2 months now since I joined the program and to be honest I was glad I took the risk. I will be withdrawing my entire principal amount back into my bank account by next week. I could have gotten back the amount sooner but in order to increase my profits I rolled my earnings for a longer time within the program. Anyway once I get the principal back everything I have in the program will be profits and the risk to me own 'real' money will be eliminated.
By Feb I am expecting to receive a nice payout into my bank account of about US$200 in every 2-3 weeks. And that is a nice feeling and bank account balance to have.
However following the other rule that is applied to most everything in life: Never put all your eggs in one basket, I have also just joined another program that shows potential to be as successful as the first program.
12DailyPro is the first program that I was talking about. When I joined them in Nov 05 they had 80,000+ members. To date they already have 300,000+ members and they are still growing. They are longest running program that has a relatively high payout within a short period of time within this industry.
To process the payments into and out of the program a third party payment processor is used. StormPay is recommended as they have been around longer and are more stable. The other advantage is the convenient option to use your credit card. Do note: Stormpay do not allow a few of the free email accounts, eg Yahoo, Hotmail & AOL. Also please read through and be well aware of the fees that you will have to pay BEFORE signing up with any payment processors.
So it really IS possible for an ordinary person like me to make some money on the internet. And the best part is I don't need to aggressively 'recruit' people under me in order to earn. Of course there is an incentive for having referrals but that's secondary.
If you are like me and wants to make some mula on the side for what ever purpose than go take a look at this. Sign up for free and look around the member's area for 7 days to get a clearer idea on how surfing is done as well as get the latest news updates from the program's admin. If you don't like what you see you have nothing to lose. But think of the advantages if you do like what you see. A word of caution if you do sign up: do not use Hotmail email address, you will not be able to receive mail 12DailyPro to Hotmail accounts.
Here's some numbers to give you an idea of the sort of $ you can take back if you have the means:
The maximum amount you can put in is US$6000.
So $6000 x 144% = $8640 (That's $2640 profits in 12 days.)
Think about it.
(Disclaimer: Nothing is guaranteed and the information here are what I have found out from my own experience. You need to do your own research and due diligence when deciding on ANYTHING relating to money matters.)
Making money on the Internet by surfing sites.
(Warning: this might sound like an advertisement to some so read on at your own risk or click away at your own loss.)
When a friend of mine first told me about this program that he found where you could earn money just by surfing sites on the internet, I was skeptical. This particular program that he introduced me to offered to pay me back 144% of what ever amount I put in at the end of 12 days. All I had to do was to surf at least 12 sites everyday during those 12 days. And the minimum amount that I needed to put in was only US$6. It really sounded too good to be true at first.
But curiosity and the ever present urge to make more money got the better of me and I went to the site to take a look around. What was they said on the site is pretty much the same as any other 'get rich quick' sites around. But still somewhat intrigued I searched for more information regarding this program on the web and through other forums that discusses other similar programs. And what I found was quite surprising.
The industry that this program belongs to is called a Paid-to-Surf or Autosurf industry. You basically put in a certain amount of money which they call a 'membership' fee and you are required to surf through a minimum number of sites within the program for a fixed number of days. For each of the fixed number of days that you surf you are given back a fixed % on the amount that you have put in. At the end of fixed period, the program gives you back your 'membership fee' plus and an additional fixed %.
Example: The program says 144% in 12 days for surfing 12 sites. I put in US$100. Everyday during the 12-day period I get 12% of $100 = $12. By the end of the 12 days I will get back $100 x 144% = $144.
All the postings that I read on the forums regarding this site have been good news. They did start out with a bit of problems which is common with such programs. And a few people even labeled them as a scam in the early months. But the program have proven them wrong so far. Everything that I could find on this program was positive.
Well anyway after doing my home work I decided to take a risk and joined this program. All the while bearing in mind the golden rule when 'playing' with money: Only use money that you CAN AFFORD TO LOSE. And that is the mindset that I had when I went into this program. I was taking a risk with some rather hard earn cash and it will definitely be a pain if I do lose it. But at least it wasn't everything that I had. Meaning I can still afford to lose it should it happen.
Well it has been 2 1/2 months now since I joined the program and to be honest I was glad I took the risk. I will be withdrawing my entire principal amount back into my bank account by next week. I could have gotten back the amount sooner but in order to increase my profits I rolled my earnings for a longer time within the program. Anyway once I get the principal back everything I have in the program will be profits and the risk to me own 'real' money will be eliminated.
By Feb I am expecting to receive a nice payout into my bank account of about US$200 in every 2-3 weeks. And that is a nice feeling and bank account balance to have.
However following the other rule that is applied to most everything in life: Never put all your eggs in one basket, I have also just joined another program that shows potential to be as successful as the first program.
12DailyPro is the first program that I was talking about. When I joined them in Nov 05 they had 80,000+ members. To date they already have 300,000+ members and they are still growing. They are longest running program that has a relatively high payout within a short period of time within this industry.
To process the payments into and out of the program a third party payment processor is used. StormPay is recommended as they have been around longer and are more stable. The other advantage is the convenient option to use your credit card. Do note: Stormpay do not allow a few of the free email accounts, eg Yahoo, Hotmail & AOL. Also please read through and be well aware of the fees that you will have to pay BEFORE signing up with any payment processors.
So it really IS possible for an ordinary person like me to make some money on the internet. And the best part is I don't need to aggressively 'recruit' people under me in order to earn. Of course there is an incentive for having referrals but that's secondary.
If you are like me and wants to make some mula on the side for what ever purpose than go take a look at this. Sign up for free and look around the member's area for 7 days to get a clearer idea on how surfing is done as well as get the latest news updates from the program's admin. If you don't like what you see you have nothing to lose. But think of the advantages if you do like what you see. A word of caution if you do sign up: do not use Hotmail email address, you will not be able to receive mail 12DailyPro to Hotmail accounts.
Here's some numbers to give you an idea of the sort of $ you can take back if you have the means:
The maximum amount you can put in is US$6000.
So $6000 x 144% = $8640 (That's $2640 profits in 12 days.)
Think about it.
(Disclaimer: Nothing is guaranteed and the information here are what I have found out from my own experience. You need to do your own research and due diligence when deciding on ANYTHING relating to money matters.)
A Pointless Rambling
I was surfing through various local blogs, as I sometimes do when I have the free time and don't know where else to go, and it dawned on me that there are a big a group of bloggers that are not all that anonymous after all. Well at least not within their rather extended group.
I found some common names on Ondine, Packrat and MrBrown's blog. But I wasn't expecting that they would all know each other personally. The recent wedding of blogger Cowboy showed that most of the bloggers in this group do know each other. But one of biggest surprise was when I read that Xiaxue belonged to that group as well. From what I've read on her blog before and also what I have read about her else where, the association was simply a surprise to me.
What's my point of this post?
Well to be honest I don't think I had a point. Just wanted to ramble on a bit about this observation of mine.
Perhaps that's just what this blog of mine is about. It doesn't really have a theme or a point. I do not blog about any one specific thing. It isn't always about my life. And it isn't really about others either. It's a collection of sorts. As my site description above says, it's a place for me to ramble on stuff. I don't need to have a point. That's what rambling mean anyway, to talk on and on without much of a point. =)
So if you will allow me (or not), I shall indulge myself in some pointless bimbo-ish chatter from time to time. Such as this post.
I found some common names on Ondine, Packrat and MrBrown's blog. But I wasn't expecting that they would all know each other personally. The recent wedding of blogger Cowboy showed that most of the bloggers in this group do know each other. But one of biggest surprise was when I read that Xiaxue belonged to that group as well. From what I've read on her blog before and also what I have read about her else where, the association was simply a surprise to me.
What's my point of this post?
Well to be honest I don't think I had a point. Just wanted to ramble on a bit about this observation of mine.
Perhaps that's just what this blog of mine is about. It doesn't really have a theme or a point. I do not blog about any one specific thing. It isn't always about my life. And it isn't really about others either. It's a collection of sorts. As my site description above says, it's a place for me to ramble on stuff. I don't need to have a point. That's what rambling mean anyway, to talk on and on without much of a point. =)
So if you will allow me (or not), I shall indulge myself in some pointless bimbo-ish chatter from time to time. Such as this post.
Mel Gibson's Blog?
Not sure if this really is his blog. It seems to imply that it is.
Found out about it from Lost Budgie Blog.
Thought that it was an interesting little tidbit to mention here too. Go check it out for yourself and draw your own conclusions.
Mel's Musings
Found out about it from Lost Budgie Blog.
Thought that it was an interesting little tidbit to mention here too. Go check it out for yourself and draw your own conclusions.
Mel's Musings
Updated (at 3.20am):
Just found this quite by accident. I was curious and followed the link from my stat counter which led me to this site. And then following his links I came to this site where the author claims to be the person behind the Mel's Musings site.
Makes me wonder why did he do it in the first place? Oh well this just proves once again that you really can't believe everything you find or read on the internet.
Thursday, January 12, 2006
Not Quite Mac Convert
This is so cool. I finally managed to setup the Mac to connect to our wireless network system so that I can have internet access anywhere around the apartment. I am no longer bound to my desk. Yay!! Also the Mac will finally be used more frequently now.
It's kinda weird working on a Max after being a PC user all my computing life. But for the sake of being practical I am learning how to use it as best I can. So far it has been ok. It just takes quite a bit of adjusting.
Actually for me it doesn't really matter if it's a Mac or a PC now. As long I can do what I want on it and I can get online using it, both are fine with me.
As with most if not all PC users, I was totally adverse to the Mac in the beginning. Always thought that the Mac was extremely difficult to use and totally spastic compared to a Windows based PC. Not to mention the exorbitant cost of getting and maintaining a Mac versus the relatively cheaper cost of fixing up your own PC. I've also always thought that software for Mac was more expensive and harder to find. So you can imagine my apprehension when the hubby said he wanted to get the PowerBook instead of one of the other less pricey (but still not cheap) Windows based notebooks.
But after listening to his reasons we decided to go ahead and take the plunge into the deep end. However to be honest I was also rather curious to experience for myself the difference between a Mac and a PC. To find out first hand how the Mac OS worked as compared to Windows.
It was tough initially. I knew there would be differences but I wasn't prepared for HOW different the two systems would be. I remember being extremely frustrated with the Mac in the beginning because I could not figure out how certain things worked, things that I had taken for granted in Windows. We both felt rather disappointed and thought that we had really made the wrong choice in purchasing the Mac. We even thought about selling it. But we were too busy and, truth be told, too lazy to find a buyer. So we kept it and continued using it sporadically and only when the need arises.
And as with all things, practice makes perfect. Well in this case it's still not perfect yet. There are still things that I am still trying to figure out how to do. Like simple house-keeping for instance, eg. how do I delete programs that I don't need? Other than that I am getting quite used to the interface. Now that I finally got the internet connection up and running it has really boosted my liking for this machine.
I will still be using my PC. There are certain softwares that I have there for my work that I still don't have on the Mac. But most of the time that I don't need to be at my desk I be using the Mac. I don't think I'll be a true convert to the Mac anytime soon as I like both systems just as well.
Well maybe the Mac does win out a little. And that is in terms of aesthetics. You got to admit that Mac stuff do look good.
It's kinda weird working on a Max after being a PC user all my computing life. But for the sake of being practical I am learning how to use it as best I can. So far it has been ok. It just takes quite a bit of adjusting.
Actually for me it doesn't really matter if it's a Mac or a PC now. As long I can do what I want on it and I can get online using it, both are fine with me.
As with most if not all PC users, I was totally adverse to the Mac in the beginning. Always thought that the Mac was extremely difficult to use and totally spastic compared to a Windows based PC. Not to mention the exorbitant cost of getting and maintaining a Mac versus the relatively cheaper cost of fixing up your own PC. I've also always thought that software for Mac was more expensive and harder to find. So you can imagine my apprehension when the hubby said he wanted to get the PowerBook instead of one of the other less pricey (but still not cheap) Windows based notebooks.
But after listening to his reasons we decided to go ahead and take the plunge into the deep end. However to be honest I was also rather curious to experience for myself the difference between a Mac and a PC. To find out first hand how the Mac OS worked as compared to Windows.
It was tough initially. I knew there would be differences but I wasn't prepared for HOW different the two systems would be. I remember being extremely frustrated with the Mac in the beginning because I could not figure out how certain things worked, things that I had taken for granted in Windows. We both felt rather disappointed and thought that we had really made the wrong choice in purchasing the Mac. We even thought about selling it. But we were too busy and, truth be told, too lazy to find a buyer. So we kept it and continued using it sporadically and only when the need arises.
And as with all things, practice makes perfect. Well in this case it's still not perfect yet. There are still things that I am still trying to figure out how to do. Like simple house-keeping for instance, eg. how do I delete programs that I don't need? Other than that I am getting quite used to the interface. Now that I finally got the internet connection up and running it has really boosted my liking for this machine.
I will still be using my PC. There are certain softwares that I have there for my work that I still don't have on the Mac. But most of the time that I don't need to be at my desk I be using the Mac. I don't think I'll be a true convert to the Mac anytime soon as I like both systems just as well.
Well maybe the Mac does win out a little. And that is in terms of aesthetics. You got to admit that Mac stuff do look good.
Wednesday, January 11, 2006
Movie Thots: King Kong
Ok I think I should get this out of the way. We managed to catch the movie last week and it was great. I loved the action, the filming and the animation. Nothing much I can say about the storyline since it's not new. But I think this must be the most violent version of King Kong yet. Not that I am complaining. I loved it. Especially the entire sequence between Kong and the T-rex looking dinosaurs. Particularly the ripping out of the tongue. But the 'indigenous' live on the island might have overshadowed the rest of the cast and the storyline a tad. I was looking forward to seeing the next creature instead of the actors. Perhaps this is the result of Peter Jackson not being able to indulge fully in his tendencies towards goryness when making Lord of the Rings. But whatever it is we both thoroughly enjoyed the movie.
The ending, although somewhat predictable, was still touching nonetheless. Well at least to me it was. I suppose I am just a sucker for such tragic encounters and romantic notions. The way Kong so willingly died for the girl and how his death was so unnecessary and how it was so callously treated just seemed so tragic. I don't know how else to describe it.
Anyway I definitely enjoyed King Kong much better than The Chronicles of Narnia. But It is still not the best movie. My all time favourites are the original Star Wars trilogy and the Lord of the Rings trilogy.
By the way, this is the first time I am blogging from our Mac PowerBook G4. I'm tying to find uses for it so that it doesn't end up sitting in a corner collecting dust most of the time. How we came to owning this is a story in itself.
The ending, although somewhat predictable, was still touching nonetheless. Well at least to me it was. I suppose I am just a sucker for such tragic encounters and romantic notions. The way Kong so willingly died for the girl and how his death was so unnecessary and how it was so callously treated just seemed so tragic. I don't know how else to describe it.
Anyway I definitely enjoyed King Kong much better than The Chronicles of Narnia. But It is still not the best movie. My all time favourites are the original Star Wars trilogy and the Lord of the Rings trilogy.
By the way, this is the first time I am blogging from our Mac PowerBook G4. I'm tying to find uses for it so that it doesn't end up sitting in a corner collecting dust most of the time. How we came to owning this is a story in itself.
Saturday, January 07, 2006
Random Rambles
For some reason I have found it rather difficult to find anything to ramble on this week. But for the sake of pushing the new year greeting down I guess I'll need to post something. So here it is.
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Maybe I'll have something more rambly to ramble on later.
Oh by the way, I've added an Archive/Comments link for the 'Image of the Moment' section for anyone who is interested. It links to another site that I've created for archiving the images from this section. The creation is meant to help me keep track of the images I've posted and should be posting still. I just like having a record of such things. Besides it also allows comments on the images just in case there are those of you who wishes to do so.
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Maybe I'll have something more rambly to ramble on later.
Oh by the way, I've added an Archive/Comments link for the 'Image of the Moment' section for anyone who is interested. It links to another site that I've created for archiving the images from this section. The creation is meant to help me keep track of the images I've posted and should be posting still. I just like having a record of such things. Besides it also allows comments on the images just in case there are those of you who wishes to do so.
Sunday, January 01, 2006
New Year Greetings
May your new year of 2006 be filled with hope, laughter, peace, happiness, tolerance, acceptance, excitement, forgiveness, charity, purpose, security, health, abundance and above all else,
LOVE.
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