A new beginning

Hey There!

2009-01-03T09:47:00.000-08:00

Hi Bryan, I know you mentioned somewhere that you still check on this blog so this entry goes to you. Hope you and your gf are doing great! I'm kinda impressed that there are friends out there who are still checking this blog =) Really sorry that I haven't managed to keep this blog really live.

I guess there's just probably too many things going on in life right now.

Okies, but here's to the new year! 2009! Viola, how time has flew by.

Taking a step into the unknown

2008-09-21T08:42:00.000-07:00

Well, once again, its been quite a long time since I last Blog.

Definitely much has happened. Hmm... let me try to list them down

Aileen Front:
-We finished MPC
-Gotten Ps William's Blessing
-Both Parents have met
-booked the Dinner Venue
-Got the Church
-WEdding committee team members

Work Front:
-Got Confirmed after 3months at Hyflux,
- Been Very Blessed at work, Have Favour with my Boss, But its all God's Blessing Really
- Company has put me on a French Course, so its back to French once again,
- Private Sector Life is different, but at least I still think its interesting and there's still so much to learn.

BB Front:
- I'm taking over the captainship of 86th BB Coy. God Help Me please. like Literally, God I can only do this with your strength.

Physical Front:
- I think I'm gaining weight :P hahah, yes, there's lots of Good Food at Hyflux mans, so I REALLY REALLY need to start running like i used too when I was in the Army (Daily!) hahha

To sum it, I'm growing in so many areas, Ministry, Work, Relations. So Many things to do, exciting, but yet dauting also cos you're not really sure where things might eventually lead. But i guess that's part of the Adventure in Life. We never really know where things might lead, but we proceed, Boldy and with faith of the Lord that his will in our lives will ultimately prevail.

So God Once again, as I take that step into the unknown, I know that my feet will land on solid ground; or you'll be ready to give me wings to fly :)

Love you Lord, you're still the greatest love in my Life!

Starting to Run again

2008-05-26T05:18:00.001-07:00

Hooray! Today, I did my second Run in the week so i'm really happy cos it's be quite a while since I ran regularly and consistently.

There is a difference when I run. I really feel much better holistically and i'm better able to concentrate and focus on my revisions. There's also the benefit of shedding some calories which seems to have taken up permanent residence around my belly area. . Just 1hr a day of exercise, hopefully this habit will start to built again in my life, cos i remembered , I really enjoyed the effects and after glow of a good run. heading out early to mcritchie Reserviour or Bedok for a run and feeling great for the whole day. Compared to now, where the matabolism level seems to have dropped and I get quite lethargic by mid-day which never used to be the case...

Oh~ I went back to my Men's First In Camp Training today to see them in process, it was a wonderfully feeling seeing most of them back, and most of them feeling very positive about it. I really sensed something deep was at work when they recited the Guard's Creed once again after 2 years, donning the Khaki Beret with pride. There was this resounding pride in their voice as they raised to a cresendo, We Rule the Day! We Rule the Night! Always Ready! Ready to Strike!...the Echos of that last word lingered around the parade square for a while, and this was NS Men, more proud, more gutsy, more Onz! than their NSF days. I really wished they all the best for the rest of their NS lives, may the friendship forged remain close to their hearts and to the Guards Core!

Run Run Run Run Run! How can a Guardsmen not be fit? tsk tsk

CFA not easy

2008-05-16T01:53:00.000-07:00

Arghhh....

Why does the month of May always have to be so painful? somemore taking leave to suffer. piangz

Excerpts from an Interview with Ngiam Tong Dow

2008-04-20T10:40:00.001-07:00

I chanced upon this on a website, and I thought what our Ex-Minister had to say about Singapore's education System was rather insightful. the full interview can be found here

Q. You say focus on education. What is top of your wishlist for re-making Singapore's education system?

A. Each year, the PSLE creams off all the top boys and girls and dispatches them to only two schools, Raffles Institution and Raffles Girls' School. However good these schools are, the problem is you are educating your elite in only two institutions, with only two sets of mentors, and casting them in more or less the same mould. It worries me that Singapore is only about 'one brand' because you never know what challenges lie ahead and where they will come from. I think we should spread out our best and brightest to at least a dozen schools.

Q. You advocate a more inclusive mindset all around?

A. Yes, intellectually, everyone has to accept that the country of Singapore is larger than the PAP. But even larger than the country of Singapore, which is limited by size and population, is the nation of Singapore, which includes a diaspora. My view is that we should have a more inclusive approach to nation-building. We have started the Majulah Connection, an international network where every Singaporean - whether he is a citizen or not, so long as he feels for Singapore - is included as part of our diaspora. Similarly, we should include foreigners who have worked and thrived here as friends of Singapore. That's the only way to survive. Otherwise, its just four million people on a little red dot of 600 sq km. If you exclude people, you become smaller and smaller, and in the end, you'll disappear.

Q. What is the kind of Singapore you hope your grandchildren will inherit?

A. Let's look at Sparta and Athens, two city states in Greek history. Singapore is like Sparta, where the top students are taken away from their parents as children and educated. Cohort by cohort, they each select their own leadership, ultimately electing their own Philosopher King. When I first read Plato's Republic, I was totally dazzled by the great logic of this organisational model where the best selects the best. But when I reached the end of the book, it dawned on me that though the starting point was meritocracy, the end result was dictatorship and elitism. In the end, that was how Sparta crumbled. Yet, Athens, a city of philosophers known for its different schools of thought, survived. What does this tell us about out-of-bounds markers? So SM Lee has to think very hard what legacy he wants to leave for Singapore and the type of society he wants to leave behind. Is it to be a Sparta, a well-organised martial society, but in the end, very brittle; or an untidy Athens which survived because of its diversity of thinking? Personally, I believe that Singaporeans are not so kuai (Hokkien for obedient) as to become a Sparta. This is our saving grace. As a young senior citizen, I very much hope that Singapore will survive for a long time, but as an Athens. It is more interesting and worth living and dying for.

Woo Hoo!

2008-04-10T06:47:00.000-07:00

I know its kinda the end of my tour but one of my article got published in the Army Journal! =) well, it was a co-written article but I'm still quite proud of myself, can check out this link below. There's even a Pen pic and a short write up of me below hahaha. so BHB

The last Stretch

2008-03-19T04:30:00.000-07:00

This Chapter of Life is coming to a close!

In a twinkle of an eye, 4 years have passed, and I've wrote 2 blogs for the 2 different tours in the Army that I had. This Blog was titled "A new beginning" but even now, that "new Beginning" is on its final chapter.

I've tendered my Letter of Release on 29 Feb 2008, followed by a Confirmation on the 10th of March so as of 15 Jun, I'll be leaving the SAF! Looking forward to a new environment and a new range of challenges.

It's not quite the End of Ends yet! as I've still 3 more months, but I'm definitely going to treasure these few remaining Months. I know that I haven't blogged her quite frequently, due in part to the nature of my Job, but I'll try to pen down my few remaining Thoughts and feelings to Sum up the whole of my Army Experience, and any particular moments I treasured within G2 Army.

Scrolling through the Archives of my Last Blog and this. I know that I leave a much stronger person that when I first came in and I've met Very amazing role models along the way too. For That, I Thank God for his Blessings and Mercy. Indeed, I leave this place with absolutely no regrets. I do hope I've also left good impressions on the SAF during my time there and touched the lives of the people who have came across my path =)

More to come in the few weeks!

A poem for my dearest

2008-03-04T09:07:00.000-08:00

My Girlfriend

My girlfriend’s love for Tehhh is beyond my reason;
Her peabowl bladder is such a bane, Awatch always for quick relief
If skunks doth send people far, her workout scent drives most to prison;
Her voice a mile one can hear, her wildness shakes most with disbelief

Yet by heaven I think my love as rare, as any belied with false compare
Her heart sings to the Lord we both love, sweet joy she brings with her worship songs
In her I see God’s love displayed, an unceasing love for all to bring
My blessings are multiplied, by the gift from God above – Aileen

You make the stars glow brighter, you fill my world with laughter
The uncanny thoughts we both share, at the same time no less,
with humor only both can comprehend, a weird pair to all the rest.
Your sacred love I hold with humble hands, honored by your trust in my care

Princess, Pumpkin, Muackins, Love, Dearest, Dear-Dear, I softly whisper
Yet rowls my heart within to say “I love you” each time I call your name.
I know I sleep on you during “snuggle time” with loosen Nuts & Brains,
Forgive me always, you do, even when I let wind. (u sweetly claim it stinks not)

You are the bestest friend and supporter through and through.
Dearest, I like to run the race of life with you!

Oreo vs Aileen

2008-02-24T06:46:00.000-08:00

Sometimes, Aileen comes over to my place to have dinner and we normally end up quite full. So we'll offer to bring Oreo and Ritz out for their walks, in part to digest the food abit, but also to have some private time away from the family. Anyways, walking my dogs is quite an enjoyable thing.

Well recently, we noticed that Oreo started behaving strangely whenever Aileen and I bring him out for his walk. First, Oreo is trained to walk on the left of people. So I'll normally walk with Oreo, and Aileen will walk on my Right with Ritz. So as we go walking, Aileen and I will hold hands and just walk close to each other. At this moment when we walk closely...suddenly, we'll feel this Furry thing come between Us!!! u guess ed it! its OREO! He'll walk behind me, and squeeze his way between Aileen and Me!!

At first, I thought Oreo was a bit blur blue (sometimes, he'll walk on the wrong side) but no! Aileen and I experimented a few times and we found that each time we get closer, Oreo would come right there to separate the both of us!! like a lil' chaperon. hahah. Than he'll look up at me and give me this set of soulful eyes. Wah liao...My Dog is Jealous of AIleen.

But Thank God, he isn't particularly nasty towards Aileen, just maybe a bit possessive of me hahaha. I love u Oreo! but too bad lah, I love Aileen a lil more :P

A very Interesting CNY

2008-02-11T04:26:00.000-08:00

This CNY is slightly different from all the ones i've been too since I've came back from Toronto. I had to visit my other half's family and relatives too! so it was quite fun trying to coordinate visits from both sides of the family. Well, the payoff was I got to meet ALOT of relatives in one sitting and the other side benifit of getting more Hong Bao hahaha.

Well, in addition to the the visits, it was also a good time for me to take time stock of my life and just spend time with the Lord. So it was a really good and refreshing time for me as well. I didn't get the chance to do that during the start of the year as I was so super busy at work, so it was good to finally get down to it. I guess i found some resolution in the areas of my work and life goals on the whole so i really Thank God for it. I believe while this is the year of the Sabbath, I'll be making some really important changes in my life this year in preparation for the start of the next chapter of my life.

I'm excited of whats ahead, not going to look back. In the words of my OC, " When you make that step into the unknown. you must believe one of two things 1) You step on solid ground or 2) you'll learn how to fly.

Counting Time

2008-01-28T06:41:00.001-08:00

Sometimes...

The feeling just hits you and you're just like super sianz of doing anything. Today, or more specifically, tonight is one such night. I've seem to have lots and lots of things to do, but just can't kick myself into gear..

So yes, i'm taking refuge aka excuse by trying to update my blog. Somehow, it's alot more enjoyable. Hai~ Inertia is such a powerful tool. Well, It's almost the end of Jan and frankly, I don't feel like anything has changed since last year infact, its like the year has never ended or started formally for the matter. Maybe I've just been in my job for a long time and I feel like i'm repeating the whole cycle all over again. I guess I'm probably feeling a lil bored now and maybe a little aimless too.

I need to find a quiet place and refresh myself, I don't know why...but just feel rather drained.. can't imagine its the start of the year and I'm already feeling like this. Is my work really that siong? no what, Than what's wrong??? Maybe I'm just not doing enough and I feel my work just isn't up to the mark... and there's like a serious loss of satisfaction in my work now....

There! It feels better being able to say/write it out.

Interesting Things abt my Church

2007-11-18T06:17:00.000-08:00

Okies,

Disclaimer: I've nothing against my church and not saying things that's not good abt it. I'm actually believe in corporate obedience towards our Pastors and all.

So..I just like to highlight some of the more unique facets of life in my church, in particular, its approach towards relationships. For some background, I was brought up in a presbyterian Church! Chinese one some more, so you can imagine it was rather well.."Traditional".

Well, my current church is rather different. Outside its Charismatic exterior lies a very "Traditional" approach towards Boy-Girl Relationship.

For starters, they are very involved in any relationship even before it begins! Okies for example. Our spiritual Fathers and Mothers will kinda "look out" for suitable mates for us. Some say its like those matchmakers from days of old, the old po po who will intro girls to the guys etc. But they prefer to consider themselves to be like the Servant Abraham sent to find a suitable bride for his son Issac. No kidding, They do that in my church. They will consider many things lah, and than drop opportunities for you to get to know the opposite sex member. So, sometimes, when they say Church is like a mini SDU. I now kinda understand. Fyi, my "Traditional" Presbyterian Church does none of these "activities"

Than, When there are some interest between both parties right. They will be the middle person to convey the interest through a very intricate network of friends, Cell grp members and Leaders. So eventually, before you even want to take the 1st step towards courting the girl or guy. Roughly at least 4 other people will know, Your Cell Group Leader, Your Pastor, The other parties Cell leader and Their pastor. Of coz, there's the in between group of friends who also kinda know somethings happening, so you see. It's a very "transparent" system, or the term they use is accountable.

Well, Let's assume that past this intricate signaling of intentions, you Do get into the Get to know you cum courtship phrase. Everyone kinda goes into monitoring mode... Like whenever there's an opportunity, they ask very simple innocuous questions like "Well...How are things going along? hahaha. It's quite hilarious. Than they will give advice when is the "right" no wait its "suitable" time to pop the "So wanna get together question"

Than Viola! you say the magic words "YES! lets get together", Both of you inform your cell group leaders that you guys decided to "bring the relationship" to the next level. Before you know it. Half of all the people you know in church knows that you are attached! The other half are people you don't know, but somehow also know that you are attached. You're now labeled as an official "couple" and can be seen going out together during Church events. The plot thickens!

So now that you are a couple. The church remains ever Vigilant! You have to choose either cell group leader or Pastor to have Accountability sessions. These are couples are suppose to mentor and guide both of you through the relationship. And you'll have to meet up with them once in a while to share about aspects of your relationship. (Very Private parts also). And they will advice you on things to look out for, Things not to do, things to talk about etc etc. So it's really an ALL hands on the deck approach towards any relationships in my church. From the start, you realized that magic hands and fingers are working behind the scenes. It really feels strange at first, but it kinda grows on to you and you accept it as "The Norm"...so sometimes, When someone ask what are you doing on sat night? you go "Oh~ i'm having accountability session with my Pastor!" to someone from my Church it will be "oh~ matter of fact nod" To someone who doesn't know what happening and finds out what's accountability session.... well, basically does a backflip and 2 somersaults and say "You got a "put phrase in here" Church man!!"

Okies, the soup ain't cooked yet. There's still a PMC, Pre Marital Course that All couples must go thru before they can get married. I ain't there yet...so, more to come! :P

Okies, just some notable points about my church and it's really active approach towards Relationships.

On Oreo

2007-10-29T08:22:00.000-07:00

This Post is dedicated to my dear Oreo who is currently wearing a collar, Those plastic ones that jut out and make you look like a clown kind, That Dogs have to wear to prevent them from licking themselves. You see, Oreo just came back from the vet.

Oreo is a Hyper active dog, and whenever someone or something comes near the gates, he'll start jumping and jumping. So i guess he must have landed wrongly and his Dew Claw suffered a tear. OUch ouch ouch. For the unaware, the dew claw is the fifth claw of a doggie, somewhat like a thumb that's hidden slightly above the other 4 claws, well Oreo's dew claw must have caught onto something thereby causing it to tear. Quite bad...cos a bit of flesh also came out.

I only noticed it when i realized that Oreo was rather subdued, and kept licking his paw, that i saw this jutting out claw with a big of pinkish thing... Wah liao!!!! action station, wanted to bring him to the vet right away, but mum say don't need, just need to to put some bandage. I couldn't believe what my mum was saying. We didn't even have proper doggie medication. and obviously Oreo was in pain..

So anyways, since it was after hours, i brought Oreo the next day just before service to have his paw examined. Oreo was a pretty good boy, didn't yelp too much or struggle as the vet trim his fur around the claw area, Clean the wound and dressed it. For that...the bill came up to $84!!! paingz, more ex than human man. But well, at least Oreo looks happier now =)

Oh~ i also realized that Oreo is SUPPPER smart. You know, in the day when the sun heats up the patio and its hot But I'm at the gate just coming home and Oreo and Ritz comes to Greet me. Oreo knows how to walk in the shaded areas to prevent his paws from getting burnt! but Ritz...bless his doggie soul , would just walk right in the middle (HOT HOT patio) to greet me. hahaha.

3 year old birthday coming soon next year!

Happy Children's Day

2007-09-30T08:50:00.000-07:00

Just a stroke to Children's day...

3/4 of the year done, yet there's still the final quarter of the year awaiting. So, to take stock of some of the the interesting titbits in my life thus far.

Well, okies, I've started to learn Golf. Its quite addictive especially when you get into the "swing" of things. Actually, it really is quite fun when there's so many of my friends who are all picking it up together. So yeah, now every Monday, I'll be at Sembawang Country Club with the rest. Into the 3rd week now! Hopefully i'll learn something by the end of this year =)

I've also started to gain weight... yes, must admit that I don't run as often now, but i'm quite happy that I still managed to complete my 21km under 2 hours this year! despite the limited number of training runs. still a good feeling. But no 42.125km this year cos.... i'm running with Aileen in a shorter race. Maybe 1 day, we'll both finish the full marathon together....hmm, we'll see

I finished the last book of Harry Potter. abit of of a letdown... somehow. A better read was Blink by Malcom Gladwell, some interesting comments into the subconscious. It talks abt our cognitive construct and some of the amazing things that our minds do when we don't take notice. I'm finishing Wild at Heart now which is a quite a cool book although it get's rather repetitive after the middle portion. But yes, its gives me a handle to how i can challenge my BB boys and let them put their God Given Boyish nature full reign. Indeed, Boys are meant to have an adventurous spirit and a crazed side to them, to do the seemingly dangerous.

My Boys are growing, Spiritually and physically too! Sometimes, It's just warms your heart when you see them grow to be more and more like you :P yes...its strange at times, but when i look at them and hear their wisecracks, i sometimes wonder isn't that so Me? hahah :P

Okies, workwise, a new boss. I pray he'll be able to lead and guide us well. First impressions, I think he'll be able to do alright, personally i think my branch have excellent people who are willing to go the extra mile and do a good job. We just need a good head to tell us where to go and to focus us along the way. Can't wait. The years isn't really over actually.

Holidaywise... it's feels kinda strange that I've not yet dived this whole year. But I'm saving up for a trip to Manado in December. Hopefully that will materialise. hehe, it's like a mini paradise island in the sulawesi sea off Indonesia.

Okies, that's all for now.

Something Shameless

2007-08-13T05:55:00.000-07:00

Aiya, saw something quite fun so decided to give it a go....

Totally unflattering, you know! The software said I actually looked like Kim II Sung and Ang Sung Syu Ki also, but heh, the closest matches so far are actors, phew, actually most look Asian. So i guess the Face Recognition software is quite ok lah. Other than Patrick Steward, i Guess the software must have recognized my thinning hair Mua hahahaha.

Clarifications

2007-07-23T09:14:00.000-07:00

Well, I just got back from overseas and I realized that quite a lot of you have been wondering if I'm attached from the many queries over my MSN...(sorry,been away and mum using my comp lah) so here's the news from the horse's mouth. Ok, Ok....I'll just state it in the clear, Yes, I'm attached!

Yes, I know the last post was rather confusing...I apologise. Her Name is Aileen, she is 100% Christian, Funny and yes! she runs too, so I did find a girl with all i asked for!!! =) Yeah, All Thanks to the Lord's blessing and faithfulness. To my fellow PCs at 3Gds, I told you it's possible right! I'm not being too choosy :P To my Toronto Friends, I haven't taken much photos yet...so I really don't have her picture on my comp, or at least, it ain't the most flattering one, but i'll definitely post when i get my hands on a nice pic of us ok? :P Hang in there peeps!

Anyways, another piece of Cloud Walking News, I managed to get the Merit Award for my course! wow! It's all God's Blessing man, that's all i can say, It's ALL GOD's Blessing. So yes, I'm absolutely delighted cos its prob the first time I actually like got an award in an SAF course hahaha :P

Here's a piece of not so cloud walking news, my fighting fish died because my sis forgot to feed him... wah liao, abit sianz man, because the fish could regconize me already...hai~

Well, course ended, so i'm going back to start work again, tml... argh!!! and worst, i need to start training for AHM 21km!!! argh!!!hahaha, run run run Colin!

In Transit once again

2007-07-05T05:59:00.000-07:00

Its kinda strange, but everytime i'm at the airport, while waiting for my flight, i always am able to blog...almost to the point of it becoming a habit. Don't know why, probably the allure of travelling, stepping out, stretching abit and the airport is kinda like that holding place before you move out =). code work BIG SMILE (those at FCBC, you know what i'm talking abt)

So yeah, once again, in the course of my work, i'm overseas for training once again. it's really quite mind boggling how much SAF spends to send our ppl overseas for training, i guess its a reflection of how much they really value training and exposure. I guess i shouldn't complain, but sometimes, it really becomes quite draggy, like now. I'm normally quite eager to go for such trips, but strangely, i don't quite feel that way this time. don't know why also...maybe its because i'm going back to the same place again.

I'm now in the transit lounge, and its like deja vu.. all over again. well, I just want to go in, get the job done and get back. Heh =) quite bad right? take Govt Money, yet don't appreciate hahaha. They even cater for RnR at the end of the trip....what a nice gesture for the local economy.

oh~! i'm starting the 40 day fasting, well, ok, started yesterday lah...but really, i think in addition to what FCBC is doing with the 100k campaign, Its really abt Me that matters, as quite correctly pointed out by Ps Eugene. It's abt Me and my relationship with God. Its abt whether i'm ready to commit everything back to him. Even the blessings that he has given to us, to lay it back down at his feet. And I'm not talking about tidings here yah! (although, yes, I must give Thanks to God for the lil' raise i got haha =). It's EVERYTHING that he has blessed me with, Family, Friends, Finance, Relationships and EVERYTHING. So this 100k thing, is an exercise of personal Faith, to let the blessings flow and not just stick at me. Yes, I think i understand now. I am not able to keep the blessings to myself and just revel in it. I must keep the channels open and let the blessings flow. It's not abt finding 20 ppl to bless, it's abt being geniunely like Christ to 20 ppl. As long as i know, i did that act of kindness, God is my witness! although yes....barcodes r needed to "record" blessings as part of the "admin" for a large church, so ironical at times, but yes....that's how FCBC works :P

well, lets see how i can be a blessing to the people where i'm going. Lord, I pray for a heart that's sensitive, show me the areas where i may bless! Let me be a vessel of your blessings. And when all is said and done, let me have a heart that's always humble and that just longs to be by your side. Like Ritz hahahahahaha....okies, maybe Ritz abit hard cos i think i'm more like Oreo, more naughty and abit "wilder" hahaha.

Cloud number 9

2007-06-25T07:53:00.000-07:00

It just hit me that i'll be flying again next week!

Today while driving to work, the traffic was just crawling, i literally stopped my car from Bedok all the way to Pasir Laba. Than i remembered! it was the 1st day of School!!! no wonder my daily commute to the west was so smooth during the last 2 weeks of my course and today... well.... was late... To all you students in Singapore, i feel your pain, it sucks when you guys starts school too. hahaha, i guess it means that i'll have to wake up that MUCH earlier now to try and get to work.

I just watched Shrek 3, I know its pretty late in its run already, but Wow! i'm so glad i caught it cos it was really nice, there was even morales to the story, all in all, a rather heartwarming film. so for those who are as sua ku as me, if you got the time, go catch it!

Anyways, just a quick observation on Oreo and Ritz, well more so Oreo, i realized that he is "afriad" of maids! no kidding, when i bring them for a walk, and the maids are coming home from their off days or something, he will detour away from them one you know! and i attribute it to the fact that they are afriad of aunty zeny cos she scolds them when they sneak into the house. hahaha, quite funny when i think abt it.

Okies, time for the next half of the year!!!

A day to remember!

2007-06-08T05:41:00.000-07:00

Alrighty, 07/06/07 will be a day that will live on in posterity, well at least for me anyways lah.

-Clear skies,
-stars were super Bright.
-Cool,breeze
-I'm still in No. 4 Uniform (not too smelly, cos i was in classes)
- Dinner was at "The BreadHouse" Simpang Bedok. Hey! this place is downright cool lah. It's owned by a Christian Boss, who puts very cool posters with Bible verses with regards to Bread... i.e. Man shall not leave on bread alone

Just got to say i really enjoyed the moment. Thank You!

Okies, image is etched onto my mind liao. moving along.....

Anyways, now that my CFA exams are over, i feel rather Free.... Its a nice feeling, but I think i'll soon be busy once again. BTW, I felt sooooo blessed when i took my CFA cos so many of you sent me well wishes! like i think more than any other exam i've taken before. Just like to Thank all of you for your prayers and support! Especially my dear Sons Elvin and ZH! ur msg really perked me up u know! :)

Currently on course (yes! again), this time, i'll have to go overseas in July for the 2nd phase of the course. Should be interesting, but frankly, not looking TOOO fwd into it considering that I've been to the place like countless times. But the course should be interesting with lots of MEmorization and sleepless nights..yupz, Redbull Coffee to the rescue.

It's proven that this mix is potent. Trust me, i tried it during my studies for CFA. No joke it works, but the side effects are scary...my fingers started to twitch and hand started to shake. Freaked me out so much that i finished a 1.5l bottle of plain water at once to dilute the effect. hahahaha

Oreo and Ritz are doing really well, they are so obedient now. but Oreo still has his racist streak in Him...for some reasons he REALLY, and i mean REALLY hates Indians and Motorcycles. I don't know how to break the habit and it doesn't help that the Morning Papers delivery guy is Indian and on a Motorbike... So every morning when Oreo barks at him, he'll go away and Oreo and Ritz think they are "SUPERDOGS" who saved the day... so, they really "enjoy" barking at Indians... hai~

Ah ha~! this weekend is June camp...busy busy busy!

I guess a new Chapter has begun!

On Leave

2007-05-17T19:49:00.000-07:00

Heh heh, I should be studying, but taking a quick break. And well, since really there's nothing much to do during my break, I'm blogging (Technically, an acceptable reason for not starting studies)

Last night, went to catch SRT, A Midsummer's Nights Dream. It was an interesting production, we had to sit on the lawn and the play was on boardwalks constructed all around the audience. omnidirectional, so you had to turn your head all around to see the Play happening. It was quite cool as the play is about Ferries and 4 lovers lost in the woods, so you are literally 'plonked' into their world!

I guess that counts as one of the highlights for the week!

Okies, a quickie, now back to work!

Heroes in our midst

2007-04-20T11:07:00.000-07:00

It's super late...but i just like to record this wonderful article i've just read on Prof. Liviu Librescu who died in the recent Virginia Tech. Massacre. An amazing demonstration of one who gave his life for the ones he loved. Check it out here "The Holocaust survivor who saved a classroom"

He personified what it meant to "Stand in the doorway, between the living and dead"

Really, in the our midst of all our complaints , moans and groans....the sad things abt this world, I just get inspired knowing that there are Heroes in our midst , glimmers of light in an often foggy and sadden world. You don't have to die to be a Hero, I think it starts from the little things in life where you have to make the choice to Stand in the door and Fight or Run to the window and flee with the rest. In everyday choices, Heroes surface.

Cure for Stress

2007-04-17T06:44:00.000-07:00

The cure for Stress

http://www.icecreamgallery.com/

In particular... the Rum and Rasin =)

Hang Time

2007-04-10T09:33:00.000-07:00

To my Dearest Brother,

Sometimes, we think that everything is going wrong, that we are bearly "Hanging in there" in our Jobs, Relationship and personal life. But in our constant desire to strive (spinning the hamster wheel i call it), sometimes, it just a matter of just letting go cos the ground is just 1 foot below you. =)

The Lord is your foundation and he's never far! I know you're going through a tuff time, not know why "she" isn't interested, why ur Boss never understands. Why life feels so xians at times. Luke 12:29-30 says: "Do no worry abt it! For the Pagan world runs after all such things, and your Father knows that you need them. BUT seek his Kingdom and these things will be given to you as well" =)

Serve Happily Bro, The Lord has given you a gift with children, love them =)

Friends and Family, Futures and Forwards

2007-04-04T08:07:00.000-07:00

I finally blogged again!

In the midst of this Week leading up to Good Friday, I guess i'm reminded of my Family, not the spiritual family, but by actual family. It's just struck me during Ldrs meeting when Ps Eugene said something abt how we can be so close to our spiritual family and behave like spiritual sons, but are we able to bring back this light back to our own homes. and Bless our OWN families. To be Honest, i don't think i'm there yet manz. I really pray that my own family will be able to serve Christ together, EVERYONE, including my sis. Yupz! including her one day, impossible it may to Man, but Not to God.

As for Friends, Let's just say that I'm so glad for all of you! Old and New, even in the midst of all our busy-ness, I just appreciate the fact that we can still say "Hi" Over MSN. or someone will say "Hey! let's go for a run with me" or someone will say "We haven't met for a long time, shall we meet at Simpang Bedok for Coffe, TONIGHT? =) As for New friends, for some strange reason, i'm meeting so many of you in the last quarter of this year! yes... it's amazing how time flies and we are already in April... have to declare Income Tax Month haha. But yes! I'm grateful to get to know you! I guess being on course helped alot also, had more free time on the weekdays :P

well, I'm in the midst of studyin for my CFA again... yupz, so confused between Futures and Forwards. Learnt how to price them...conceptually easy... but than something about Futures being marked to market at the end of each trading day, therefore, if it's underlying asset is positively correlated with interest rates, than the Futures will trade at a slight premium compared to Forwards. Still can't quite understand why hahaha.

till the next entry! Cheerios and Hang in There! But why hang on your own strength? why not fall and believe that 1) You'll land on soft ground or 2) you'll learn how to fly =)

Busy Busy in his name!

2007-03-06T08:35:00.000-08:00

Short Entry...

Been doing quite alot of meetings, typing minutes.... sigh~ this the Retreat Season, where everyone is doing some kind of year end planning for the next WY. =)

Any There's the upcoming Games Day which is another huge monkey on my back.

But today during Ldr's Congre, things just seem in place. Thank you Father, I love you.

it's another Valentine day

2007-02-14T09:11:00.000-08:00

it's 15 Feb, V-Day +1 =)

yours truely was having classes till 10pm manz. What a nice way to spend Valentine right? The good thing is, i'm on leave till the end of CNY!!! ...

But yes, strangely i remembered that it wasn't too long ago that V day happened last year, I can still kinda remember how it unfolded... There was the usual Church Prayer Meeting on Wednesday. (same as this year, since V Day falls on a Wed again) and church was asking ppl to "make a date with God"... Haha.

Today, i didn't go though as I had classes as earlier mentioned :P I heard that it was mostly old folks who were there at TC hahah. But as I mentioned to one of my Brother, it was more likely than not that the single girls will also be at the meeting, so it's a good opportunity for him to take notice hahaha.

So there's a Chinese saying "Ai bu gu tian chang di jiu, zi gu cheng jing yong you" . Don't know why I'm typing this out also...but somehow it kinda reflects memories on this lovey dovey day... So Carpe Diem..Haha :P In any case, I know this kind of stuffs are meant for dreams and fairy tales. Reality always hits when you're getting to the best parts, than you're like "Arghhh!!! stupid Alarm Clock!!! Could have given me that extra 5 mins to give that Goodbye kiss or something...HAHAHAH"

Anyways, sooooo off tangent, this post is just a rumbling piece of incoherent thoughts, like a mirror dropped and shattered into a thousand pieces, each giving it's unique reflection of the same subject; Disjointed, Shattered, each telling a different story abt the same thing.

Well, to all you couples out there, i hope you had an enjoyable Valentine! I already know of 2 ppl who spent it in agony with their partners. Where's the love? the tenderness? the usual complains lah.... strangely, nothing heard from the single ones, I guess when you have little to expect, you also have little to be disappointed abt right?

Oh~ I brought Oreo and Ritz for grooming today, they look sooooooooooooo good, and they smell even better. Oreo is growing his mane already and his body is growing musclular. I'm not kidding, he runs here and there and when he is at full gallop, i can't catch up with him at all. Ritz however is still slightly flabby hahaha, that's what happens when you are all soft and manja and only want to cuddle next to me, sis, mum and dad :P Oreo however has taken to chasing people on Motorcycles, he get's all excited when he sees or hears them and he'll take flight if given the chance. Yes.... Oreo has a thing with people on Motorcycles and he'll chase them. I'm not kidding, it's quite a thing when you see him sprint after one. He is REALLY fast. It started from the newspaper delivery guy, i think he left an impression on Oreo....to Oreo, anyone on a motorbike is the "BAD GUY" haha.

So long for having little Oreo and Dainty Ritz, they have grown up already! almost 2 years old... still remembered taking them when they were just only 3 months old and no bigger than my 2 palms put together. Ritz was still underdeveloped and both hated to have their ears touched.

Shucks, haven't been running for a while already, i think it's been 3 weeks since i put on my running shoes. better do something tommorrow before the CNY starts, it'll be another feasting session and I've already gain a few kilos during my course with all the morning break, tea break and Coffee Break and supper break. Madness.... yes, the more i'm thinking abt it, the more determined i am to continue my "close to daily" runs. hahaha....I still can't imagine i used to wake up at like 6am to run, before sunrise, and by the time i'm back, the sun would be up. That really took determination manz.

Hmm, I guess I'll enjoy the memories. At least the good ones =)

Post Santification

2007-02-04T09:23:00.000-08:00

Just finished the week of Santification.

this year, was slightly different where my Church had a "Word Encounter" after a week of Santification. Basically, they played taped recordings of the various Chapters from the Bible. for some reason, it felt kinda strange. I guess having the bible played over the sound system was actually quite distracting for me...really not quite my thing. Personally, i would rather have taken my bible and find a quiet spot at some corner of East Coast Park, watch the sunrise and maybe bring a guitar for worship =)

but God is Great and I still managed to have a good session this last week. Well this leads to the reason why I'm penning (bloggin) this down. after so many weeks of inactivity. I want capture the words I believe the Lord has for me.

Key word: Surrender

Are you willing to "Surrender" your personal dreams and Goals and put it on the altar of the Lord?

I guess I was really struggling over what I wanted to do in my life considering that I'm able to move on to other things this year, so the question was really...."Colin, so how? What do you want to do from here? Where do you want to go?" Infact, the 1st month of the year was feeling kinda aimless and I hate to feel aimless...so that made it kinda sucky.

During that period, i went back to some of the Life Goals i've set for myself sometime back...very ambitious ones, but definately interesting also. Well so during Santification, I guess the Lord asked me to "surrender" My dreams, with a Capital M. Wah, so hard manz, really...!!! but the Lord reminded too that he is the Lord of Destinies! and God has a Destiny for me!! so I guess i'll be relooking at those Goals again, Less of Colin, more of God! Alrighty!!! Feels good again! haha.

Oh~ i'm currently on Course still, so... tml i get to go to work at 10.45am !!! haha.. that's prob another reason why I'm still awake at this time.

For some strange reason, i also feel quite awake considering that I started my day at SOL, Svc, Sword Bearer at a Wedding and just returned home at 10pm... Oh~ talking about wedding, it was one of the most "qian bian" one I've been too... The MC annouced that the Groom was such a great singer ( Singapore Idol participant and stuff) and was going to sing a classic to his bride... spend almost 5 min just praising him and the song. You know what song he Sang in the end?? Mary had a Little Lamb....That was , and he even got the everyone to be his backup singer, cos everytime he sang the word lamb, we were all suppose to go "mehhhh", that was evil hahaha. So yes, this will go down in memories.

As swordbearers, we stopped him half way down the aisle with his bride and make him do a re-enactment of the proposal scene before we would let him continue on to the stage. HAHAHAA. But he managed to talk his way out haha, He told us the 10 reasons he gave to his bride why she sould marry him. Another Qian Bian answer again "I will always give you the last Oreo Cookie" hahaha :P

But ok lah, good memories as usual, with the usual dinner food. Jia lat, I'm already getting a bit jaded with wedding dinners. Somemore have to bao "Hong Bao" super ex dinner manz...

Okies, time to Zzz liao.

Back from BKK

2006-12-25T08:15:00.000-08:00

okies! Blessed Christmas to all. I just stepped off the flight from BKK. yupz, I spent Christmas in BKK and just got home... like Just.

Before I jump into bed, I'm just going to quickly capture some tots on my 1st trip to the "Land of Smiles"

-22-25 Dec, Baiyoke Sky Hotel (Tallest Hotel in BKK, very nice place)
- Incredible Weather, it was cool like Genting. Even the Locals were amazed, they haven't experienced such cold in the last 4 years or so
- Friendly people
- Shopping experience in Chatucat (sic), MBK, Platinum, Siam Square, World Trade Centre. NOW i understand why Sgreans love to got to BKK. It's a shopping heaven. What a pity i'm not much of a shopper.
- Thai Food (the wierd and the wonderful)
- Drinking sessions, we had 2 bottles of Chivas, 1 Red Label, 1 Jack Daniels... Memories there
- Thai Transport (Tutuk, Cabs, BTS)
- Celebrating Christmas in BKK (so quiet)
- Worshipping in Bangkok on Christmas Day, I amazingly managed to find a church there. Although there was no service, the pastor was kind enough to open up the santuary for me.
- Thai Massage (Ouch)

Alright, will give a more detailed update at a better time. Meanwhile, time to shower and sleep. Tml still got to go back to work. heh heh.

Woopie! I'm completed my First Marathon!

2006-12-05T04:53:00.000-08:00

Alrighty now, I completed my First Marathon last Sunday! Woot!

So pleased with myself. Well, not just because it's a completion of something physically demanding...I mean, yes definitely pleased that I managed to complete 42km at least once in my life. I've ran the race of my life! I did it, I survived, Mission Accomplished in 4h.47 min!

But there's something more to it than mere completion. It's seeing something to it's End and in the process, learning more about yourself.... Running a Marathon has been one of my Goals in Life which I wrote down a while ago, and training for it, and seeing it to its end just make me stand in awe at the Triumph of the human spirit. Indeed, for we are made in the image of God and God is a Triumphal God. I saw a sign along the Marathon Route.

"Courage to begin, Spirit to Triumph"

Wow... how wonderfully written, sometimes, the hardest move to make is that first step...."Courage" is to make that step into the unknown and from there, the spirit to fuel us in the endevour. I'm brought back to the words of my OC

"When we make that step into the unknown, we must believe in 1 of 2 things. First, That we land of solid ground or, Second, that we'll learn how to fly"

I'm just glad that i managed to follow thru and accomplished the goal I set for myself for 2006. It's a great way to end the year i must say. hahaha. The best thing is, I am still walking! not limping! I even manage to go to service after the Marathon! haha =)

Okies, I'm already planning on what to accomplish next year... so far, 3 things on my list

1) Powerboating Licence
2) Golf
3) a New Language!

Oh~, I took leave from work after the Marathon, so went to watch a movie with my boys, Happy Feet. it was a bit long actually.. but I think the boys enjoyed it. Than one of them told me his Mum said something very funny..."Kennedy, if you don't wash your shoes when you come back from watching the Movie Happy feet, I'll make sure you'll be crying feet" HAHAH.... excellent. my boy's mum has a sense of humour. Needless to say, he washed the shoe before coming out for the movie. I really Thank God for these little un's and my prayer to the Lord is really to turn their Hearts to their Father in heaven! Wow! next year will be another exciting year.

Oh~ talking about Kids...I saw a video clip for Wii, the new Nintendo Gameset! It's so cute... I tried to download it, but I can't. So here's the Link. The Grandma playing the Wii is totally adorable. she may look Old but she definately has the heart of a little Kid.

http://us.wii.com/viewer_sports.jsp?vid=4

Ok...something more light-hearted!
Christmas is coming already and... yah, I'll be going to Bangkok over christmas!!! HAHA yeah yeah yeah. 22-25 Dec :P Excellent.... at least i know where a portion of my Civil Service Bonus is going.... to the people of Coup Land. heh heh.

Actually, I've an idea of what i'll like for Christmas already...BUT! i'm not going to be so BHB and let everyone know on this blog.. :P But if you are thinking about getting me a Christmas present and really don't want to spend too much thought onto what makes a meaningful gift... What can I say...Cash is always good ;).... you may feel free to wrap it to make it "meaningful"...but I accept gifts as it is, it's the heart that counts anyway right? Awwww...

So there now!!

More Jap Food

2006-11-18T20:41:00.000-08:00

Image(699), originally uploaded by jwchu168.

BEST Jap Food in my life

2006-11-18T20:39:00.000-08:00

Image(698)
Originally uploaded by jwchu168.

I went with my Mum and Sis to this Japanese Restaurant last last week. this was one of the best Jap food experience I had in my life, hmm...actually, it's the best. We went to a really traditional Jap house along Neil Road (near Tanjong Pagar), and ordered "Otoro" and "Chutoro". It's the Fatty stomach part of the Bluefin Tuna which is supposed to be the 'best' part of the Tuna fish...well just to experience what real Japanese Sashimi is all about... My gosh, the taste was a paradigm shift away from whatever I've had man. To say it was Fresh is an understatement, the Texture and that "melt in your mouth" feeling... Never experienced it before in Sashimi. Even now I can still remember how it each chew of the fish just brings out more flavour, and nothing fishy at all. I still don't believe that this is actually the Belly part, cos I avoid meat around the fish belly, it usually taste fishy, but not this... And the chef actually came out and talk to us, and advice us how to apply the Wasabi, and dip the light sauce and how to use the chop sticks probably. Hahaha, feel so enlightened now. Do you know that Wasabi and Light sauce should not be mixed into a paste?? hahaha, all the time ,we pour light sauce on the wasabi.... WRONG!!!! :P

Actually, the Wasabi is special in itself, it is specially blended, so when you pour light sauce, it spoils the effect. And the light sauce just need to cover a small portion of the slice, that is meant to enter your mouth first, so that it will 'liven' up the pallate and prepare it for the rest of the fish. I'm impressed by the Japanese man, they are real craftsmans ,EVERYthing is art to them, everything is poetry in motion. Salute.

Oh~ and that's just the Sashimi, we also had a whole spread of other jap food which were all very well made, something like a tasting menu of sorts. As you can see in the photo, I was a very happy person that day. Hahaha.

Encounter weekend at Salvation Army

2006-11-18T20:16:00.000-08:00

DSC00641
Originally uploaded by jwchu168.

That's me right there with my BB boys at the last Encounter Weekend. It was quite an amazing time seeing all of them recieve Christ into their lives and I believe all having an encouter with the Lord and Holy Spirit. But all praise be to God for bringing these young ones into his Kingdom. The Kingdom really belongs to hearts such as these. Lord, make me an instrument of thy love and peace, that I may continue to minister and turn the hearts of these boys to the Father =)

3 Gds ORD Function

2006-11-18T20:12:00.000-08:00

IMG_0195
Originally uploaded by jwchu168.

It finally came to pass, the rowdy guys of PL 8, 3 GDS 12th Mono are finally ORDing. Guys, I hope you'll stick it thru your Reservist and always remember the Good Ol Days wherever Life brings you, this shared memories will never fade. It's been my honour and pleasure being a part of your NS time! All the best and God Bless!

Just 3 words

2006-11-16T07:07:00.000-08:00

I Miss you

That weekend feelings once again

2006-11-05T07:43:00.000-08:00

Wow! what a week.

I only slept at home 2 nights out of the whole week. The rest was at work. OK lah, 1 day was a Oriental Hotel as i was taking care of some vistors but still...Home is still the best.

First time on the golf course! It was nice walking on the green though i really don't quite get why people like playing golf in Singapore. i Mean, it's FREAKING hot out there, it's not even funny. like if it was 24 degrees, aircon temp...yah why not. but Heaven's forbid, it's 34! and everyone came back abit roasted heh heh. Thank God I only went to the first hole. make sure everyone was good than i went back to the cafe (airconed!) and relaxed
hahaha.

Than after that hectic 2 days, Just nice, it's leader's night, I didn't even know until I called Gin Hin to meet up with him when he asked if i could come down to TCT...well why not? Oriental and Bukit Merah not too far away anyways. So trooped over. Super tired. Honestly, i think i only caught the first part of Ps Eugene's msg :P

Than yes, went back, Thursday night had duty again! so...stay back overnight. Thank God! Nothing happened haha.

Oh~ I gotten a new pair of running shoes! cos the old one was getting abit worn and had lost its bounce some what. With all the milleage that it's been thru, I guess you can really feel it. Well anyways, today i ran 24km with my new shoes. Very Bad Move cos now i've gotten 1 big blister on my left foot and every step hurts :P so silly right? but yes, i can't believe! i'm only 4 weeks away from the Marathon! Sometimes, i'm still amazed i actually managed to keep my goal for this year cos i stopped running for quite a while after Dec last year... Was a bit sianz. But my colleaques wanted to train, so we went running in the afternoon lunches. And hmm... i joined the AHM team, trained Even harder! and Yes,how way leads on to way.... now i'm on my way to running the full Marathon. I don't know how it'll turn out to be. i'm just going to take it easy and try and complete it. My goal is to finish it on 3 Dec and attend Service still!!! LOL, probably won't be able to stand up for praise and worship. But I must really go and give Thanks to the Lord, for it'll probably be one of those highlights that you have in my life.... Hmm, 2006 hasn't been that bad a year after all. I fulfilled 2 of my life Goals, 1 is to Jump out of a perfectly working airplane and 2) To complete a Marathon. I've did 1, and now on my way for the 2nd... hmm, yeah, compared to 2005, i must Say 2006 has been truely blessed!

After service today, I actually went home and started tidying my room...and i mean major clearing of old old stuff like letters and bits and pieces from eons ago. So i was reading thru some of the letters that i recieved when i left for Canada. Wow, touched man, like really touched. I'm really blessed with some amazing friends i must say. And i was looking at the neo prints that they attached. MY gosh!!!! NEo prints!! and ok lah, we did look abit toot than hahaha, but it's nice to walk down memory lane. I read some very interesting letters too, now on hindsights, i guess it meant something more but just didn't catch it than hahaha, but oh well, so over already. But one thing struck me. I lived in an age where we still did write letters to each other!!! it was the start of the Internet because ppl were saying stuff like " When I get my email address, i'll let you know" and "what's your ICQ number there?" HAHAHA...yes! we actually did use ICQ eh. And the letters were stamped and addressed and there were pictures and funny scribles on the sides which you can't really do on email. Life really changed with the internet eh?

So anyways, I've 2 large black trash bag in my room. it's amazing how much you can accumulate and not even know it existed.

Today, i also cleaned the Car and washed the Dogs... hah hah, quite happy! everything quite clean today and yes! I look forward to next week too as i'll be at Encounter weekend as a Guide for the first time! and I'm assigned to take care of 9 boys! all from my BB coy but only 7 are my own boys, appearently it's quite alot...I think i'll need help manz. Pamela in her own crazy way suggested I line all the boys in one line and do Mass Ministering. If I were the boy, I think i'm facing some firing squad...madness.

"God is Good! All the time!" and "All the time, God is Good!".... Lord, i entrust this coming week into your hands once again, May i be a blessing to my neighbour, my bosses, my colleaques, my family, my boys, and all my friends too! Amen!

Random tots

2006-10-29T07:29:00.002-08:00

It's the end of the weekend!

Ok, just reformatted my whole computer over the Deeparaya Holidays, now computer feels like new again =)

So, since it's almost the start of the new week, a quick re-cap of the accomplishments i made last week eh?

Let's see...

1) Formatted Computer
2) Setup the Wireless server
3) Ran 27km today! on Sun!!! Wow, my legs were so so stiff, had to literally limp to church manz. but so some sense of accomplishment. Ran along East Coast Park from Fort Road to Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal and Back!
4) BB Boys Promotion Night! (So happy to see all my boy's get promoted to lcp...looking fwd to bring them to Encounter in 2 weeks time!
5) Cut My hair (yes, it's super short and I won't go back to the barber again...even though he is a fellow fisherman. He can fish, but not really cut.

and oh~ I celebrated my Kuku's Birthday today also! I brought her to this super nice Italian place opposite Holland V. It's a whole row of Italian trattorias (sic), it's authentic stuff. I had the Chef's reccommendation which was a pasta in white wine and lobster meat. My gosh, They actually gave you a Full size lobster! They took out the meat, cut it, roll it with some other spices and put it back into the lobster to cook! And every bit of the pasta was so flavourful, you really could taste the lobster! with hints of spices. and my Sis's dish was particularly worth remembering too, It was a capollini that was staffed with Veal and they baked it with cheese and truffles. Taste was unbelievable, Even the Cheese was so smooth and unique, you don't get that "ni" taste after eating it. and i could go on to the anti-pasti (appittisers) but i won't...as my keyboard is flooding with drool already. Ok, at times like this, i'm quite happy to be in Singapore where you can get access to great food! It's comparable to the restaurants I had in Italy. of coz...price wise a bit more ex than Italy...but ok lah, once a while, Birthday mah =)

I should run tml, but I really doubt i'm in any condition to do it. I've abrasion between my groin and thighs, and my legs are sore :P maybe i'll swim instead.

Alrighty, tml a new week begins! School holiday's might have started for my Boss, but me still have to work. Hai~ but will probably take some time out to spend with them. Was thinking of bringing them go cycling as part of Pre-encouter prep.

Guitar Time

2006-10-18T09:28:00.000-07:00

Have you ever played Guitar till your finger tips are numb? ok... That's what i'm feeling now hahaha. I'm so happy! I manage to Bar my F#Maj and Bm! hahaha, so happy even though my left hand fingers are ouch ouch ouch as i type. like...the a,s,d,f all hurt :P

I've been using this song "Nearer to you" to practice. Very Nice song...The lyrics just keep humming in my head current.

Oh~ today, i went to see a Podiatrist! It's a Foot Specialist and he analyzed the posture, feet, walking strides ext. So I found out some new facts abt myself! and Why I'm sometimes feel pain on my knees and Hips.

Appaerently, I am a mix of Over and Under pronation! i.e to say, When i land, I over pronate, and my feet quickly counter-reacts by Under pronating! While chim huh... And I also found out that my Right leg is 6mm longer than my left! haha, and although not too significant, could excerbates a strain on my outer Knee! So cool, and i'm actually quite impressed! So...solution to my problem, get a shoe with good heel stability, with a focus on front side cushioning. and an insert to stablise the pronation. =)

Busy times, Looking fwd to the Depa Raya Holis. Think i'll spend some time with my boys during the Holis.. Thinking of bringing them to go cycling, while doing a pre-encounter session. Yupz! boys going to Encounter on the 10 of Nov!!! Can't wait =)

Weekends

2006-10-14T07:24:00.000-07:00

Once again, I pour out my life.

That was a verse from one of the songs that's somehow playing in my head. How does one pour out our life? Abundantly, Not a trickle, but a Thick volumus flow. That's pouring for you.

Well, this whole week have been on course at Armour Camp, Somewhere in the depts of Lim Chu Kang. It's even furthur than NTU... yupz, super ulu basically. But what a beautiful part of Singapore that is relatively untouched! Ok, i mean it's touched lah, but still largely argicultural. There was a very cool Cafe which we went to called Bollywood veggies. It's open by this 'famous' lady called Ivy Singh. A very fiesty Women who wears Khaki pants and boots. Well this lil cafe only serves organic food that's grown personally in the fields surrounding. The place is called poison Ivy haha, such a macabre sense of humour.

Super tired today after BB, don't know why also...maybe it's the haze, makes everything blurry and sleepy feeling. Terrible, you realized that everything bad that's happening in Singapore can be attributed to the haze. Sometimes, i really think we are quite wimpy. The Poor Indonesian's breath this kind of air everyday. Not to mention the air over cities like LA and NY and London. The air quality is alos quite lousy at times, just that ppl get on with life.

Oh~ today got an SMS from Melissa! She's getting married next month. The first of our batch of classmate who's tying the knot! I'm struct by 2 things. First...well,as mentioned...the FIRST of my batch are entering the marriage phase already!!! 2nd, well, wedding Invites are over SMS nowadays! =) Isn't it amazing how Technology get's woven into tradition and culture? So only after responding over SMS will a Wedding Invite be Dispatched to you! So practical and efficient cos i remembered this portion of consolidating replies is an absolute Headache for many wedding couples.

I'm just thinking, maybe during my time, I'll send a Mess Email or something (put to undiscloused reciepients)...Than the email must have that option notifying upon being read. Than also must indicate action...like "accept" or "Reject" Than if reject must type in reason hahaha. I think Microsoft Outlook already has this features siah. Than we make it even more power. Once you click accept. The wedding couple will immediately be notified and an "E-Wedding" Invite card will be sent to you with the nice nice pictures and words and what have you not. Now here's the even more power idea. We can embed our bank account number also, so there's an option of "if you wish to give "Money Packet", can just type in your bank acct number an it'll automatically transfer Money over!!!! Wah!!! so amazing eh? I'm just going crazy here hehehe. I'm sure it'll never go down well with the missus, cos somethings just are Better if done the ol'traditional way. that touch of class and sincerity. Hmm.... why thinking abt this kind of things now? Moving on.

No interesting taxi bits this round. Yes, appearently ppl are quite tickled over the last "amazing" fart incident. It's quite gross actually, Definately won't be laughing if you were with me. heh. But yes, No cabs this few days.

Oh~! One highlight of the week was Jean from Taiwan visited me! she still hasn't changed at all with her dazed and blur look. but so adorable. Her hair style still remains the fringe and cleopatra like bobs. She did enjoy Singapore very much. Haha, i acutally brought her to Bedok, one of the Tall tall HDB flats to let her have a sense of where "real" and "normal" Singaporeans live. Was quite surprised to know that these blocks actually have Grills around their lift lobby to prevent strangers from entering! i guess too many of my kind going up to the top for "views" hahaha. Well, we did smuggle in and got a great view of Bedok from the 25th Story. Too bad she has a fear of heights hahaha. She didn't dare go to the edge at all...:P but she did enjoy the view though...Sorry Jean, I really didn't know you were so fearful of heights :)

alright, late liao, want to sleep

I ran!

2006-10-10T09:25:00.000-07:00

Ok!

I did get up, and I did go to Bedok Reservior and ran 2 rounds before work on Monday! Hahahah, Yeah! My gosh, so difficult to get up and out of bed. But manage to do it. Ok, Thank God the haze wasn't so bad + the Morning Air was very nice with the sunrise...just nice the Mid-autumn moon was still quite bright too! even in the early dawn.

I think i'm being more of a dawn person now.

Just got an email asking if ppl are interested for a Mission trip to Medan, Indonesia...Still thinking about it. The heart is willing, but the Boss is not sure hahaha. Yupz, must get approval from my boss first. + Situation in Aceh not quite stable.

Just came back from a Cell grp session with Ps William, our Cell grp is organising the BB LDC 1 camp as part of Ps's development plan for us. It's always nice to come back and be discipled =)

Ok, Tml... Run again??... hmmm, Got friend coming from Taiwan, than meeting in the evening, abit tiring leh :P

Excellent Weekend

2006-10-08T08:07:00.000-07:00

Yikes! It's almost the end of the a weekend.

But what a wonderful weekend it has been. Accomplished so many things. For starters, I've gotten my own personal guitar after a very fun Sat Afternoon of guitar shopping.

Was at Pininsula Plaza, Basement area checking out some of the guitars and stuff. Very fun an enjoyable and I guess spent quite alot of time at the Mastero concept stall. It's actually a brand of Local- Handcrafted Guitars! wow, can you imagine? Singapore Guitar Craftsman!!! And the store assistant was very nice too. haha, let me try All the guitars. Ok...come to think of it, I'm not sure if i bought the guitar cos I spent so much time in the stall...+ The store assistant said it was her first time on the retail floor and had yet to sell a guitar. Basket Colin, you're sure a sucker sometimes... So long story short, I bought a guitar from her, but she was pretty nice too, said she'll give me a guitar bag for free =), Thank God the Guitar is excellent, plays well, and sounds really nice + Cheap. Happies.

So after Guitar purchase had lunch at this Chicken Rice place on Liang Seah Street! Excellent! I just love the Old style, even the waiters are Old and the Chicken Rice is just so Frangrant and flavourful, I don't know how they did it? but you could literally just eat the rice and taste the chicken in it!

Well, after lunch, headed over to Midpoint Orchard, to Paradigm Infintium (It's literally a Candy store for Grown ups) haha =) So many Board Games and Card Games, and the people there are all Gamers in the Singapore Borad Games community, so all very friendly and willing to give their 2 cents worth on what games are nice, and how to play them. So finally settled on this Spoofy Game called Muchkins, it's a classic Card Game that Parodies the different Generes, like Fantasy RPGs, Horror, Superheros and stuff. Heh heh. it's really cute like one of the Monsters in RPG is called "Pukeachu" and you have "Irritating Insurance Salesman" as a Lvl 12 Monster! Heh heh he. It's really excellent. Even the instruction sheet is a parody of instruction sheets. It sounds so FOS, like the last paragraph "All Disputes shall be settled between players with loud cries and arguements on who is right, In the event of a non conclusive argument, the Owner of the game will have the final say" Excellent right?

Yupz, Paradize Infintium is quite a cool place. Well, JD bought Munchkins original version, Cong got the Horror Version, and me! well... I got Citadels that I've been waiting for a while since it has been out of stock.

So after buying games, what do we need to do? Play them lah! so went to JD's place and started playing till Midnight, enjoyed freshly made Expresso with JD's Expresso Machine, Nice!!! Ok, mental note to self, My check out this cafe called Highlanders recommended by JD as 'the' place to go and experience REAL Barista Brewed Coffee.

Ok, something funny happened on my way back after the Card playing session at JD's. I took a Cab back right, cos it was pass Midnight, flaged down a cab. Mercs, wow nice. ok...just at the Traffic Junction before my estate... I heard a "Pooop poop poot!" Sound, my Cab driver than coughed something like "Emph,sor ah"....WAH LAIO, He farted man. OK, that was not too bad. He proceeded to wind down the windows to let the "fumes" out, but he also turned on the Aircon to FULL BLAST!!!! Wrong Move. Now, the Aircorn was blowing "at FULL Blast" with the "Fart Fumes" blowing directly at ME!!! ARgh....needless to say, I smelt the whole Thing.....

Thinking back, it was pretty suay, but I think the Cab Driver must have felt worst than me. Hahah

Today was another good Day, Morning went with mum and sis to Ikea to grab some furnitures for the new place. Than Church Svc was good too! Celebrated Gin Hin's Birthday. Than went to Mount E to visit Ben and had a Birthday party there again for SJ, since it was Her birthday also. Than we took out our guitars and started playing Happy Birthday songs in the Hospital. hahahaha.

Overall, a very satisfying weekend, Hai~ entering Monday! But it's ok! i'm going on Course hahaha!

And yes! As part of my Marathon Training, I've made a resolution to start Running every Morning at 6am before work! Wah say, Tml morning is going to be tough man and somemore, my course is going to be all the way in Lim Chu Kang Area so have to wake up even earlier.!!! ... but I've seen ppl do it before, so it's definately doable.
Jia You, only 1.5 months left to go =)

but heh, there's perks to training for the Marathon. Today, someone said I looked thinner! MUA HAHAHAH! that comment will at least get me from my bed in the morning to wearing my running shorts. Mua haha. Ok! That's it liao, Set! Tml 10km, Bedok Reserviour Run. I'll report on the run tml.

Nitez liao, need proper rest for a good run tml. yeah!

Ah ha!

2006-10-04T16:45:00.000-07:00

I realized something as I read through some of my entries.

Most times, I only blog when I have time...not alot. heh heh. I guess that prob sums up the current season in my life now bah. Work wise, starting to die down a bit from the high tempo July Aug Sept Period. Now it's more of cruising along at 5th Gear.

Was actually free enough to change the backdrop of the blog and hmmm, I like it =)

Oh Yah, some of the pics below are from my Trip to Indonesia ( On Work..but ok lah, still managed to find some ways to enjoy myself) Actually, it was quite enjoyable being treated like royalty and seeing places that tourist won't normally even go too. Yupz, The indonesian are great host! and their villagers and people are so humble, loving and just genial.

Also some pics of my Scuba trip, which was right smack in the midst of my busy busy season. Very Welcome triped! truely enjoyed myself than. Was a good retreat for the soul and mind too.

Ok, time to head off to work now. yes... Can you imagine, i'm bloggin before work?!?!? Madness, but yes, a true reflection of the current tempo at my work place! Yippee, must enjoy it while it last.

The whole Gin Gang

2006-09-29T10:08:00.000-07:00

IMG_3651, originally uploaded by jwchu168.

Me and my bosses once again. all quite happy as it's the closing ceremony. Those guys in red in the background are the "Simulated" Enemy.

Candle Light Dinner

2006-09-29T10:07:00.000-07:00

IMG_3667, originally uploaded by jwchu168.

Yupz, me and my bosses celebrating the end of exercise with a lil Candle light dinner.

Closing Ceremony for SAFKAR

2006-09-29T10:05:00.000-07:00

IMG_3637, originally uploaded by jwchu168.

One of the fellow Observers in our group

Me in Borobodur

2006-09-29T10:04:00.000-07:00

254cscd, originally uploaded by jwchu168.

We had sight seeing at Borobodur as part of SAFKAR Indopura, definately one of the highlights of the trip.

mancha ritz

2006-09-28T10:13:00.000-07:00

IMG_3760, originally uploaded by jwchu168.

very mancha right?

another pic of Ritz

2006-09-28T10:09:00.000-07:00

IMG_3736, originally uploaded by jwchu168.

I really don't know how he does it, but when he looks sleepy, he get's even cuter...but Ritz is a timid chap, will hide behind when afriad. Than when he know's the did something wrong he'll sit down and use his lift his paw up to say sorry sorry like that. hahaha

Ritz Yawning

2006-09-28T10:00:00.000-07:00

IMG_3376, originally uploaded by jwchu168.

haha, i don't even know how i managed to catch this shot. but Ritz and his crowning glory of fur. looks alot bigger than when he was still a baby eh?

Ritz in a good mood

2006-09-28T09:58:00.000-07:00

IMG_3378, originally uploaded by jwchu168.

One of the best shots of Ritz with his full chest of hair. his fur really makes him look bigger, cos he's actually a baby.

Oreo catching 40 winks

2006-09-28T09:55:00.000-07:00

IMG_3372, originally uploaded by jwchu168.

This is one of Oreo's Favor Hide out sport, Right under the coffee table

2006-09-24T08:58:00.000-07:00

Inspiring Story! Free Hugs Campaign

In this age of social disconnectivity and lack of human contact, the effects of the Free Hugs campaign became phenomenal.

As this symbol of human hope spread accross the city, police and officials ordered the Free Hugs campaign BANNED. What we then witness is the true spirit of humanity come together in what can only be described as awe inspiring.

In the Spirit of the free hugs campaign, PASS THIS TO A FRIEND and HUG A STRANGER! After all, If you can reach just one person...

I'M IN LOVE!!!

2006-09-17T09:07:00.000-07:00

Think Tom Cruise Jumping on Opera's...

Nah~ not so exuberant =)

I'm in Love with the sharp and dry wit in House the serial, So good.

Hah~! got you there for a moment eh?

one of the best lines from the show

"It Ain't easy, but it's simple"

Yah, anyways, just tot i'll check in since I'm back in Singapore again! so nice to have a toilet system with a cristen, a Shower with a shower head. Hot Water =) good Food.

I love my trip though, It was a great experience. I lived next to the Padi Fields where the morning sunshine would dance on the layer of water and reflect it's rays on my ceiling. I love the hospitality of the people, they went out of their way to make us comfortable. I saw a wierd sense of beauty behind the chaotic facade of traffic. I appreciate what the Lord has blessed our country with.

some updates.

-I'm running the full marathon on 3rd Dec 06
-My Family has collected the Keys to our Condo opposite changi prison :)
-2 of my Boy's accepted Christ at Planet Shakers
-My Sis is in SMU (Enjoying! which is great!)
-Dad's Birthday on Tuesday
-got a Fine for speeding....sianz, letter was sent when i was away. 6 Demerit Points..
-30 Sept, House Warming Party
-just bought a new notebook for Sis, she's loving it, the smoke from my pockets contributing to the Haze
-Caught a bit of Flu from my trip.
-Ritz looking a bit wierd because we cut away the balls of fur on his behind...Mum and I are not professional groomers so...he looks a bit bare on his behind :P
-2 Days of Off!!! =)

So fun!

Alright, There are some other things that i like to rant abt but getting late and I think i'll leave it to another time

cheerios~

The Joy of Flight

2006-09-04T18:40:00.000-07:00

Ok, here i am again. There's really nothing to do while i'm waiting for my flight so i guess i'll take advangtage of the Free Internet at the departure lounge to do some updates. Well, it's been a REALLY long time since the last post. so i don't really know where to begin.

Heh, really no clue where to start... Lets' see...

Dog's have grown full adult size now. Very intelligent and protective. (i.e. bark alot hahah)...oh Oreo and Ritz pictures appeared on the straits times a few weeks back!

We got a new house, just collected the keys. Quite a nice place... it's opposite Changi Prison though. but Condo Living, what can i say, a new experience probabably.

i'm still quite sun burnt after the Leader's retreat, very very nicely toasted...i'll say Medium Rare =)

Brought my BB boys out on my Off Day, It was really fun just being around with them. I learnt something that young boy's are not familiar with Coffee stall drinks that well. I asked one of the boys to get me a "Teh Peng" and i got a can of ice lemon tea.... So i'm like confused, i asked "Percivial, how come it's this?"

Guess what's the reply? "Officer Colin, i tot you said you wanted "Ice Tea? Teh Peng is ice tea right?"

Hahaha... Yes, only in Singapore where Hokkien and English Translation of the same "Ice Team" equals to two very different drinks =)

Cheerios peeps, i'll be back in 2 weeks time.

Exam tml

2006-06-03T08:14:00.000-07:00

Exams Tml! Yikes!!

Than it's back to work. haha, but so happy! Really enjoyed the time i had to study. Hahaha, felt like a student once again ;)

An update! Finally

2006-05-20T10:24:00.000-07:00

Hmm, the last update was 7 April =) been away that long eh?

Well i guess there was quite a few things happening but just didn't find time to blog it down.

Taiwan was a good trip, learnt quite a fair bit i must say,

than...Coming back, rested for a while, went to work abit and i was off again going Diving in Tioman. Met some really nice ppl. It's always nice to dive cos you always get to meet new ppl and stuff. Some very interesting Characters too i must say haha.

AFter diving, than before i knew it, i'm taking a whole long leave to study for my CFA =) Very nice.

I don't know how to say it, but i guess God does have some plan up his sleeves because things are just falling into place. Like my Boss just informed me that he is recommending me to go for this course right after coming back from my Leave. I'm excited!

ANd although i'm studying, it's quite a joy really to be able to dedicate your time 100% to study. it's not easy, but at least i'm trying it so no regrets. Yupz, I'm really living up the student life. I head to TP find a nice spot in the Library on the 8th floor that overlooks the Reservior and i start to boil my head, Than comes lunch, Meet up with Gin Hin and have Good and Cheap food in one of the canteens. go back, mug a bit more than around 6pm, i'll change into my running attire and run around Bedok Reservior. What can i say... that's quite a life.

Yupz, been slacking quite abit on running, so i guess it's nice to be back, although legs are sore only after 2 rounds :P Need to get back the feeling eh. But the Reservior's nice, I guess i've some affinity with Water cos i always feel fresher and more vibrant when i run near Water bodies hahaha.

Lots of things to look forward too. June 4th is the Exam, Than course, than anothe Dive trip?

But meanwhile it's back to the Books and just nice, Next weekend, Simon's Wedding so i get a lil' break =)

Woot! Life's good (It's all a matter of perspective)

A continuation of last entry

2006-04-07T07:44:00.000-07:00

OK, Today, i did my number 2 jump! this time from a Helicopter! What can i say.. .Another good jump! Getting addictive this eh?

It was a really pleasent morning. Woke up early, saw the sunrise over the airbase, Suited up, waited for your turn...boarded the Chopper, flew pass the Drop Zone than out you go.

This time, because of the downwash created by the rotor blades of the chopper. That falling down feeling was alot more pronouced. but all went well. The landing was a bit harder than my first landing, but i think i did a proper landing drill, so it didn't hurt too badly. Very nice Jump! And there were all those old uncles who joined us for their currency jump (to keep them current). It was like nothing to them, just a little enjoyment. Really lots of respect.

Anyways, That's kinda the end of the road now since i'm not able to join the course for the night jump as I'll be leaving for Exercise on monday and the Night jump has been postponed to Next Wednesday :P

Ah well, God willing, i'll get to do a night jump! should be fun! Airborne!

AIRBORNE!

2006-04-06T05:48:00.000-07:00

Woo hoo! Woot! I haven't been bloggging, but i think i like to record this down for posterity sake.

OK, well, Today i did my FIRST ever Parachute jump! What an experience and rush. The feeling of being Air Borne! a particle in the air, drifting with the wind. It's an amzing feeling. Truely!

I've been on Airborne Course for the last 2 weeks. Basically, it's the Basic Course where they train you to be a Paratrooper -> soldiers who descend from the air!

The last few weeks, i've been practicing Landing Drills, Emergency Drills, Flight Drills, Loading Drills, Exit Drills, and Jumping out from 5 stories and stuff. Today, it was like sweaty palms and all. bah. Than, it started to turn dark. rain clouds started coming in. shucks....

But we went ahead, so being the first few passes, i still managed to log a jump! alot of the rest of the course did not get to jump.

So ok, i fitted up the parachute, feeling all uncomfortable, Cos everything was tighten down. The harness was really pinching that area between your legs. The reserve Chute was heavy, but yes,i still managed to get on board the C 130. I was the last man of the 2nd pass. Than, take off. Everything was like.... ok, here we go.

Than came the Command" Prepare for Action!"
Stand up!
Hook Up!

The doors went up! The wind started rushing in, you could see HDB flats all around. everything just looked different from above. And.... you're jumping out! (Big big Gulp!)

Equipment Check!
Sound off!
Stand in the door!
Right left right left.

I stood just behind, but i could still make out the Plane banking into a turn, preparing to make a pass over our Drop zone. The jumpmaster looked so professional, giving us the all clear. They were a real sight of inspiration and confidence. Knowing that my life was being taken care but these people made me relax that lil bit. Got to give it to them!

Than came the command! Green ON... GO!

First man, jumps, 2nd man jumps, 3rd jumps, 4th jumps, 5th jump, ME JUMP!

All over in 6 sec!~

I'm falling like 0.0.1 sec with my eyes all shut, when the Slip stream hit me and i was like flying in the air for that moment. My eyes was shut but i could feel it. My body was flying thru the air... for that 3 secs before my parachute deloyed! I flew!

Canopy Deployed! I'm on a high! Thank God! Sigh of relieve....now... its time to worry how to land properly! i steered towards the grass, and faced the wind. It was a strong head wind, so i kinda drifted backwards. and yes! Praise and Thanks to God i landed on the Grass patch, so it was a nice pleasent and soft landing! Woot! woot woot! I'm hooked. I just want to do a better jump!

And the best things is. I will be jumping again tml Morning! this time, from Helicopter! can't wait! Just pray for a good landing again!

So I haven't been bloggin huh

2006-03-10T09:12:00.000-08:00

OK Elle, This goes out specially to you since you grumbling that I don't post anymore.. :P

I'm impressed that people actually do check my blog regularly!...

Well, I gave a pretty lame reason why i haven't been bloggin. I guess the true reason would be i've been just plain lazy. Like I'm not like Mr Brown or Mr Miyagi or Xiaxue whose blog kinda earn's them free publicity and thus its important that they DO maintain their blog.

In Any case, Let's not the "notable" events of late in my life.... hmmm... None.

Ok, maybe JD May's Wedding

than.... ermmm, yah ZIlch

And getting a new car? nah, haven't signed any contract yet,

Basically, nothing much bah. Work.... It's ok,
Dogs! Love'em to bits! like Really really really love them. even when they chew on my Handphone! and break my sister's retainers... you just can't hate them or be angry at Oreo and Rtize for long. hahaha =) yeah~ Dogs are amazing.

Spiritually, I prob need a spa treatment with God soon. a retreat would be real nice, to just get away and soak in the presence of the Lord.

ok...I'm heading to Taiwan in April for 2 weeks

and erm... I went for Airborne Selection

Glloom

2006-03-02T04:38:00.000-08:00

You know that song... by Simon and Garfunkel, The song of silence.

Strangely, that's how i feel now.

I've been pretty subdue lately, There's so many things that going on in my mind.

It doesn't help that my sis and mum had a big quarrel after the A lvl results were out. I guess alot of baggage and resentment was poured out by my sis against my mum.
It feels kinda torn between 2 people i love.

There's also that part of me that prays for my Sis to return to the Lord, I knew she drifted but never knew it was this far...But by Faith! I know the Lord will meet her.

You don't get to choose your family, for better or worst, they are your family. I mean... Your family didn't choose to have YOU turn out in an undesirable manner.

Anyways, i'm not going to sound all angsty on a blog

Yeah! I know the Lord will come through for my Family, even though he did say It will be a season of trying times, but he will be there. So I'll will trust in the Lord, He is my strength and I know he will carry me through =)

Amen!

Valentines

2006-02-14T08:58:00.000-08:00

Today is that lovely dovey day. And yes, so i got sucked into it all. Well, i didn't have a date or stuff, but I did get roses for everyone in my office. =)

Well, at least i think it was appreciated, Everyone was in such joyful mood today at least all the branch ICs were super happy, and it really made me happy also. I mean i know Money Can't buy happiness, but i think the heart and effort of making the gesture really touches people. Hahaha. Anywyas, i thought it was totally worth it to see so many people happy for a day. Like 100 Dollars can always earn back, but 1 whole day of happiness can't. =)

I had a date with God today! yupz, so i actually headed down to church for the opening of santification week. When i tried to explain this to my colleaques, many of them couldn't understand... didn't make sense, but somehow it did make sense to me though. at least i Felt that it was the right thing to do, i mean really... The Lord is the most impt date in our lives =)

In any case, i like to thank God too for sharing some very nice people in my life. Happy Valentines!

Boys, Hands and Heart

2006-02-11T10:43:00.000-08:00

Today was my first parade with my Own squad boys!

Wow, its actually quite an important milestone really. Cos i guess i'm now really in charge of 1 sqaud of boys! I've 8 very special and amazing young boys. And i'm prompted to claim all of them for the Lord Jesus Christ, May the Devil never have a hold on their hearts and minds. They are

Zi hao
Zhen Hao
Percival
Sherwin
Kennedy
Jonathan
Elvin
Kaifeng

Wow, there you go, all 8 of them! :)

If only i could get the pic of them up at bukit timah hill. I just ask for God's wisdom and guidance to coach mentor my boys. To be a role-model for them and more importantly to show me ways to bring them to Christ. Indeed,I feel pretty drawn to them already :)

I'm still thinking if i should go ahead and do something next Tues.... there's santification week at church and we are all encouraged to attending the opening ceremony on Tues, which well, very convinently falls on V-Day, that much loved, and well-markted even of the year where they sell roses at $10!!! madness. :P but well, it's a tradition ain't it?

SO anywyas, i'm still going to get roses for all my Clerks in our deparment, i think it'll cost like $100?? but i think every girl should feel happy during valentines, so why not. if $100 can bring a smile on so many people faces and make their day, i think it's ok bah.. I prob will spend it on food to make me fatter anywyas. hahaha

That feeling...

2006-02-02T04:56:00.000-08:00

I'm talking about that feeling you get whenever you're organizing something, and its just the eve of the event and you're always thinking if you have everything covered. Did you miss anything out. Was there something that you did not plan for?

I guess i just need to learn to trust in God, and allow him to take his place. Cos i'm sure things won't go exactly as plan no matter how much you can plan for something. just... sometimes, i know i'm not a very detailed person so... God, please help me see the details too.

Puerto Rico

2006-01-29T23:47:00.000-08:00

1st day of CNY, we played Puerto Rico till 5am!!!

We went to Play Pool, Grab a drink, than headed home to play Puerto Rico hahaha. Really die hard man.

oh something funny, My mum got an Isqueeze imitation, it's looks so much like the real thing and it even feels just as good! The guy delievered it today and every vistor has been getting free reflexology when they come to my place hahaha. The funnies part was that my mum got the UZap thingy too! it was outrageous, especially when i saw one of her friends trying it on for a demo. The switch that control the speed must have been at max because as soon as he turned the thing on, He started vibrating like nobody's business. Like even his cheeks were flabbing. His whole body was like Zhhhh ZHhh Zhhh ZHh Zhhh. hahahhaahahahhaa =) My sis and I couldn't help it, had to rush up and laugh and laugh and laugh and laugh :P So evil right?

Poor Oreo and Ritz were cooped up in my room because of the high number of visitors to my place. So yeah, This morning, i woke up because Oreo just literally pounced on my belly. I was like, turning to hug my pillow than, Bhomp! Slurp slurp slurp. ARghh... Oreo??!?!?! than Ritz came along and started licking me. For those who have been to my room before, you know my bed is kinda low to the floor so yupz, just nice Ritz and Oreo jumps onto my bed. How's that for a wake up call? hahaha =) THe best feeling of the world. (But now, my Bed has stray fur lying around...)

Ah~ collection of Hong Bao... I don't know how much total profit i've made this year yet, but i can say it does feel wierd to recieve Hong Bao from people nowadays. :P but i'm not complaining too much

Happy CNY to all

2006-01-28T21:13:00.000-08:00

It's CNY,

I'm still at home, preparing to go out for visitation.feels kinda wierd collecting Hong Bao though.

My desk at home looks AMAZINGly neat! but there's still some junk in my room, just waiting to be taken out i guess.

Oh~ WE've got a complaint from our neighbout that Oreo and Ritz's barking are becoming quite a nuisance. sigh~ how to train them to stop barking? sometimes, i also think they are abit too much. Bark at everyone and jump too.

Not attending service today..

So la la

2006-01-27T06:44:00.000-08:00

Work, ok not really work, went to have a bit of sports than CNY celebration.

After that went to the tailors to make some alteration on my BB Uniform, So they did a rush job for me since they were going to be close till like next next Monday... I was thinking, Geez, that's like 2 hours to burn, so ended up playing Computer Games at some Lan shop by myself (lame right?) but it's pretty economical, considering that i only paid 3.40 for 2 hours of Time sinking

But now, i'm left with a pretty lousy headache.

But at least the uniform is done and looks pretty good =)

OKies, after the uniform thingy, i wanted to send the car for a wash...but hmm, looks like everyone has similar ideas, so alot of patrol places had lines all the way to the main road...

Feeling pretty festive already really! since, i mean It's just the start of the 4 day vacation hahahah ;) I think... Jan has been a pretty nice month eh?

Almost CNY

2006-01-26T08:30:00.000-08:00

Yes, the Festive Mood is almost here, i can almost feel it! :)

Tml we only have some Half time celebration! woopee! so i'm off after lunch hahaha.

I think i'll go and send my BB uniform for tailoring tml.

I'm pretty happy at work today, cos we did spring cleaning in our office and now my desk is like Superbly spick and span. + we did some rearrangement to the whole layout of the table so now i have alot more space which is great! My staff are pretty amazing manz. I'm really Thankful to God for blessing me with such colleagues, they are a real blessing. And my new Boss too! He is extremely understanding. He knows i'm really a fish out of the water,and he is giving me time to learn, make mistakes and get into the HR side of things.

Ok, Tml, i'm going to run! yeah! yeah yeah! hopefully can do at least 8km lah. I haven't been running for almost 1 week already and I've already started snacking on those homemade pineapple tarts!!! My house pineapple tarts are a speciality manz.... no joke, people actually want to put money to buy our tarts :P

Doggy Doggy!

2006-01-25T06:37:00.000-08:00

My dogs are so adorable, they slip through the grill and sneak their way upstairs to find me when i'm at my computer. I'll just hear some pitter patter than suddenly Oreo and Ritz will appear all smiling ;)

Than i'll hug them and than have to shoo them out again hahaha :P pretty confusing for them right?

gosh! i still haven't tidy my table and my room! and CNY is like 3 days away? Jialat! I'll begin the Spring Cleaning process maybe tml?

Recently watched Memoirs of a Geisha! Its a beautiful movie no doubt. But... i guess the book was better haha. Somehow, i guess books just always feel so much richer, maybe cos your brain is the director and your mind can always come up with the most elaborate set that is sometimes never humanely possible to do on film ;)

Yeah.. .the beauty of books. Which oh~ My sis recently bought this really cute book called "Dogs don't bite when a growl will do" it talks about life lessons that you can learn from Dogs ;)

So Dogs aren't afriad to get their paws dirty
Dogs don't compare themselves to others
Dogs listen deeply, even if they don't understand

And Mavis is coming to town! yupz yupz, 3 years and we finally get to see each other again, the best thing is, she'll be here for 3 months! cos she's on training! hahaha. It'll be pretty cool i'm sure.

Sore eyes again

2006-01-23T09:08:00.000-08:00

I'm on MC for Sore eyes.

It started when i woke up, my right eye was all swollen, i thought maybe it's cos i was lying on one side. So i just went ahead, dressed up and drove to work. ON the way to work it just got worst, vision in the swollen eye got a bit blur. Thank God i managed to arrive at work.

ANyways, long story short, i went to the MO, he said it's conjuntivities so i'm on MC for 2 days for the sake of my colleaques.

The best thing is when i got home, i took a rest and now my left eye also is red.b By dinner time it had subsided abit, but just like 5 min ago, it's starting again, this time, its' SUPPPPER Red, like even i'm scared, the tears seems to be a bit reddish in colour, how ah? like got discharge like that. I don't wear contacts, why still like that???

I'm on MC for 2 days so great, at least i'm covered for tml. I hope this doesn't get too serious. Don't want to end up like my friend who had to go to hospital for sore eyes!! no kidding, CNY just round the corner somemore.

2006-01-23T01:59:00.000-08:00

Why?

2006-01-22T08:07:00.000-08:00

Just don't understand why i'm being told off by my mum.

maybe she just wants to let off steam, but she's saying that she expects this, expects that, Ask me to help here, help there. I also want to be a blessing to her, but sometimes, i'm not sure if she's asking too much or I'm just being selfish. Argh, how to be a blessing??

I'm asking myself now....hai~ never mind.

Thursday, phew! 1 more day!!!

2006-01-18T08:38:00.000-08:00

Ok, the week is getting better and better. All Thanks be to God!

I really love the way he guides as long as you trust in him, and live it in his hands.

Just thinking how much tidings to give next week, cos i really don't know if i actually hit the 10% mark... hiak hiak hiak, There should be some giro function somehow, or at least some Bank Acct Number for us to transfer funds too ;)

Ok, not blogging to much, Oreo and Ritz are sleeping by my side now. me Going to sleep too and Yes! Dogs do understand you abit when you talk to them eh.

Template

2006-01-17T08:28:00.000-08:00

I was so bored that i decided to fool around with some HTML and change my Template to this. Found it on some site... Hmm, Looks a bit cluttered somewhere.

I ran today! - 8km ;) Hah hah hah!! Happies!

Oh~ and i managed to catch up with mum for lunch too since i had a briefing today in town!

Ah~ feel so lazy after work these days, like just want to sit at home and nua away hahaha.

Monday

2006-01-16T05:20:00.000-08:00

I can't believe the weekend just went by like that.

It started out with Friday night... OCS buddy's birthday, it was a wild wild night, that's all i can say. Andrew! Thanks for having such a great party, it was quite a blast, hmmm. blasted a hole in my pocket too. =)

Anyways, I got back all tired, but hack still woke up early to reach Jurongville Sec by 8.30am for BB. It was the CCA fair last week. God is so Great, we asked for 30 boys, and indeed, 30 boys actually wrote down their names and contact number indicating their interest. Oh~ we also have set rules concerning being late, So even Officers will get punished. We will contribute $10 which will be consolidated at the end of every quarter to treat all the boys who have been regular and on time at all parades. ;) wow, super good incentive to wake up early huh. ;)

AFter BB parade, went home, Brought Oreo for his Obedience Training. Oreo did... hmm, very well, but he failed 1 component which is to stand for Examination. basically, upon command, he is to stand and not move even when being touched and examined by a stranger! So oreo doesn't really like strangers especially the Coach...so yah loh, basically he ran away hahaha :P

I don't know why, but as i was driving back from work today, i just felt prompted like praying out loud, so i did that. so many so many things came to my mind and I just prayed out loud for each and everyone of them. From my workplace, my colleagues, my Family, My Boys, My Cell grp. Everything! and i just felt so much better after that!

Actually, i'm pretty stressed out at work sometimes, Don't know if I'm actually doing the right thing, or sometimes just taking soooo long to get something seemingly simple done. But my New boss is great, he just told me, "Colin, I'm not worried, so why are you? Don't worry, I've seen the way you handle things, you'll be alright, just keep learning everyday" THe best thing is, he said, "At most, we'll struggle together and find our way out lah!" Wah, best man! I'm willing to give my all for this boss, make our Branch shine =), but sianz, cos don't feel like i've reached the stage where i'm able to help, rather, still requiring alot of help from people :P

Ok, tml! I'll be going to work early for a run! woopee! i think i'll do the 8km run even though alot of people who run 8km are like super super fast :P hai~ There's a Lady Officer who is almost 43 years old, she still runs 8km under 40mins, impressive right?

In anycase, i need to work off some of the calories gain over the last 3 week of no running hahahaha.

Rain

2006-01-12T07:50:00.000-08:00

You know when it rains alot, Those puddles form along the side of the roads. Yeah, well it's been raining for 4 straight days in Singapore. So the roads are full of puddles.

Long story short, Sister going to flag a cab to go to work, Lorry came by, Sister cursed, Sister went home, Sister late for work, Sister tell me story, Me laugh so hard its evil. Mua hahahahahaha.

The power has been restored to my house, Some power circuit got triped and the bloody electrician wanted to charge us like $440 to change the circuit. Pure madness and my mum refused, he cut the price to $200 but it just didn't felt right doing business with such people so in the end we slept in darkness (well, ok, we had candle lights) and the next day, my day just went and got the circuits and installed it for like $40. Hahaha, what a joke right?

It's been a long week, Wasn't particular pleasent on Wednesday, basically it was whole day of lectures and scoldings from my Boss. Yah, i'm got it pretty bad from her, so anyways, will take it all in my stride. She's leaving this Friday anyways, The office would probably be alot more positive with my new Boss around, he is a very nice guy i feel so far. I think i can learn alot from him.

Oh~ i did my 1st Note Taking today! it was quite cool seeing how it all happens, like ok, Note-taking basically means, you sit in a Courtesy Call and jot down whatever points were talked between the two countries. It was a simple affair but there was so much protocol which i learnt. Like whatever gift given by the visiting country must be displayed prominently in the reception room. There is a certain order to where people are sitted. etc etc.... so chill! at least this is something i do look forward too.

I'm looking fwd to Friday! the last day, I want to do so many things like muster my documents, re-organize the work flow, Start filing some records! ok Lord! i want to be a cool cool Testimony for you. My colleague said she was impressed that i still managed to smile after being scolded so badly by my boss hahaha. :P OK, i guess that was the silver lining, i tired to take it professionally and not take it to heart although i did have a sleepless night last night thinking of how things could have been better handled. Truely, I'm a junior staff officer that needs to learn alot of staff, but I know there are ways and attitudes which i disagree with from my boss and i will just not follow.

I need to run...badly and yeah! i got my Certificate of completion for the Half Marathon! woo hoo! hahahaha ;)

Oreo and Ritz are soooooo adorable, they are my living, stress ball relievers man. hahaha

What a week

2006-01-07T00:55:00.000-08:00

It's finally the weekend, and I manage to find some time to waste, so here i am totting down the lil spasms that are currently flying their way through that muscle at the top of my head. (It's called the brain).

On Friday, I walked went to work, most stupid thing happened. As walked through the side gate and I got STOPPED by the guards... for the most stupid reason, For having Long hair!!!!

I mean... @#$@#, ok, it was pretty embarssing cos I was like standing there giving my ID card and getting booked by the bloody MP who was just a 3rd Sargent. When i asked him how can he stop me?He said my hair was too long in addition, He said that he needed to show some names to his PC, madness!! but hai~ i didn't want to make a scene so i just gave him my ID card and went my way.

So we'll wait and see how things unfold. the postlude to that incident was I sent an email to my RSM informing that i was booked and telling him the reason that was given to me. But i also kindly informed him that i would go for a trim anywyas. I was wondering, where in the world will i have time to go during the weekend. but yeah! So nice, when i was waiting to meet darrell at raffles MRT, I came across those 10min express hair cut place, where you pay $10 for a quick hair cut. VIola! Hair is done.

Actually it's not bad, very fast, looks decent (i mean it's not styled or anything) but the best thing of this is that actually vacum up the lose hair! so yeah! it was very nice, like having a wash after your cut! hahahah. Maybe i could consider using this service next time since it's such as simple cut. I got a free comb too haha.

Updates from work, I'm STILL going to take notes for COA during one of his calls. and apparently I'll do CDF's one also. It's going to be this Thursday! I just hope i don't screw up. Thank God they are going to provide me with a Translator. phew~ but still, I pray that God will provide me with quick mind and short hand skills! :)

Oh yes, Friday evening, I met up with Darrell and Stanley, my long lost TO friends, went to Indo Chime by Singapore River, its a really nice place eh! like really really nice place to chill with friends or a date, but a bit on the Expensive side though. They had live Jazz! Female vocal + a double bass (simply and beautiful!). Yupz! catching up with such nice music, totally worthwhile. Hmm, what did we catch up about, all censored censored censored hahahaha :P Especially uncle stanley! hiak hiak.

I'm just thinking now that Saturdays are feeling so different without Svc, like there's like this huge gap in my Sat evening plans, feeling so wierd, but actually i think its a rather good thing cos there's so much i like to do now. (ok, blog is one of them)

But yeah, i like to pick up my Safari Beds, Study my CFA ext ext, rest! Exercise! Gosh, i really really need to run cos yesterday while weighing my dogs, i weighed myself too. Horrors! I'm above 65kg!!! And i don't think i have been doing a lot of weights so it can't be muscle gain right???? No must pass my BMI, it'll be so embarrassing if i fail it at such a young age.

Okies, better get to doing some of the stuff!

Tired

2006-01-05T07:51:00.000-08:00

It's almost Friday!

Wow, today, I had QT before i headed for work and God Reminded me again that i should seek his word more closely.

Workwise, I still pray for Wisdom to do my job efficiently, To Treat people correctly and to get the job done.

Oh~ but i'm glad i went to run today! although there is a nagging pain in the right hip socket... not sure if i should see the doctor about it, it's always comes after a run so it's getting abit worrisome. Probably give it a few days to recover and than see if it acts up again.

I've started reading through my CFA notes! yikes! so many many Chapters, I really hope i will still be able to remember the Economic Concepts, some of them look extremely foreign to me now...:P

Darrel's in Singapore! woo ppee! will be meeting up with her tml together with Uncle Stanley. Yupz, my dear friends from Toronto!

My First Day at work in 2006

2006-01-03T06:34:00.000-08:00

Wow, Today i experienced the full brunt of working in an office.

Today, it was totally my show. Not the best start though because a little tiff broke out in my office. I'm pretty shocked that such a thing would happen here, but gosh~ no kidding, it did and Yes, i had to step in to resolve it. I'm not sure if i did the right thing, but I did try and reason things out with both parties. Today, I played Colin the Peacemaker. I know this is shameless, but it did feel good being able to calm both sides down and get them to talk it out nicely.

I didn't run today :(

I did spend some time with God! Woo hoo!!!

I did bring Oreo for a nice long walk. Oh~ i should give you an update on how he is progressing with his training! :)

I haven't started my CFA yet though...sigh~ how?? how?

So Far, I've hope i haven't chewed off more than i can handle, Immediately i'm put up to take notes for this delegation from Taiwan! OMGosh, I'm so dead if they start speaking in Chinese without a Translator. Like for those who know me and my CHinese Standard.... Yupz, I'm dead. I'm just going to trust God in this one.

And Yes, I'm supppose to present something at tml's staff meeting too~ so convinent, my Head has a Dental Appointment at the same time, so I'm suppose to take her place and present on her behalf. Well done Colin! Well Done... why did you say? yes? Well... You didn't have much of a choice did you?

Ah well, so many many things to do. but i don't want to get overwhlemed! I want to keep my head up above the water, I still want to be the light of your world lord! I really do! Make me a blessing to my staff firstly, and than to the rest of my Department and finally the organization.

@))^ @))^ @))^

2006-01-02T04:10:00.000-08:00

the above title is in Code. Go figure. (Answers at the end of the post)

ARgh~~~ Writers Block again. No idea what to start with. I guess i'll just jump right into some of the resolutions I've thought off. ok, here goes.

1) 0, zilch! Traffic Fines inclusive of Parking violations. Yeah~, enough is enough, last year, i have have accumulated almost $350 worth of fines, so it does add up and is really worth a good 3 day holiday to somewhere like Bangkok, or at least benifit some charities (Not the Traffic Police)

2) 42km. I will run my first FULL marathon this year. this means, some regular training

3) I will aim for the Gold standard in my IPPT

4) I will discipline myself to set aside $200 a month in Savings.

5) I will set aside 2hours each day to study for my CFA! no matter how tired i may be.

OK, i think 5 will be good enuff =)

Some less would be...but still important things to in my life .

I will strive to be a role model to the boys in BB, especially to the squad that i will be heading this year.

I will set aside time for God everyday, God gave me 24hours, how can I shortchange him by not even giving him 2% of that time. that's 30mins

Learn to play the guitar sufficiently well enuff for worship. Don't know why, still can't strum to the melody leh....even though i know how the cords are formed.

Alright, i guess, that's quite a fair bit in there already ain't it. The hard part is living it all out. But it's off to a good start! So far, I started the year with alot time spend with the Lord. Indeed it's been a period of highs and lows for 2005,quite a fair bit of lows actually so its probably not the best year on record that's for sure...

But at the end of it all, I know the Lord is in control and his joy will be my strength. God anointed me with this small piece of wisdom which i like to share.

What's the difference between Joy and Happiness? And why does the bible specifically says the Lord's JOY will be our strength?

Well, Joy is a result of knowing our destination (in this case, our Salvation), The Lord is Joyful because he knows that the ones he love (us) will meet him in Heaven eventually. Happiness on the other hand is a function of the day to day Ups and Downs that we face in our lives. So as Christian, we are called to be Joyful because we know our eventual destination and the price that was paid for it. The world can give us the worst of treatments and we can be unhappy, but deep down there is Joy running in the deepest recces of our hearts which no one can take away. That's why they say "Our Joy is made complete in Jesus Christ!"

So you see! God didn't promise us that he'll make us happy all the time! No, Instead he promised us Joy! ;) Infact, I know there may be moments when my heart is saddened, and all happiness leaves me, but I will be joyful! just maybe not happy with the circumstances ;P

Wow, that really just went on and on. Anyways, I'm looking forward to 2006! So much celebrations to look fwd too!

J.D. Wedding!
Simon's Wedding!
Roger -Engagement?? Heh heh heh ;)
Gin Hin -Possible Engagement? fingers' crossed....Shhh! No one say anything!
A new Work Place!
A new BB Squad!
A new Place of Worship!

Wow, I'm turning 24! The 2nd batch of Doggie Year kids are taking their PSLE! hahaha.

BTW the title @))^ is 2006 with the Shift key pressed. =) ah ha! did you get that? Quite lame right? Awww Com'on! Love yah to bits!

Some Pics from Bintan

2006-01-02T03:30:00.000-08:00

Yeah! i finally got my Bintan pictures, so i'm posting up some. ALl the good stuff with my Fellow PCs.

2006-01-02T02:42:00.000-08:00

Alright you clever people!

So here's the really logical answer to the prior question. I didn't get it either so the answer kinda really wowed me.

The solution is based on the number of lions in the circle - if it's odd or even.

Start with the most basic - if there is one lion and one lamb the lamb get's eaten - there is no threat of him being devoured after getting a little tired. If there are two lions and one lamb the lamb is safe because the act of devouring the lamb puts the first lion to react at risk of being eaten.

Now extend that to three lions. One lion will eat the lamb and the other two will look at each other and realize that they don't want to be eaten by the other so the new "lamb" in the middle is now safe (and not as hungry!).

This can then be extended to any n quantity of lions.

Interesting eh?

2005-12-30T21:59:00.000-08:00

Here is an Interesting Logical Puzzle which I came across. Appearently, it came up on a University's Mid Term paper on game Theory. Pretty Interesting Answer ;)

Go ON crack your nutz on it., I'll post the answer on the next post.

A sheep sits in the middle of a field surrounded by n lions (where n is some number greater than 10). Any lion can eat the sheep but, as each lion knows, it would become so tired that it would be as defenseless as a sheep itself--easy prey for another hungry lion who would in turn become tired and defenseless. The lions are all hungry (equally so for lamb or lion meat), super rational, but naturally not suicidal. Does the nearest lion, or any lion for that matter, pounce on the tasty ovine?

2005-12-30T21:29:00.000-08:00

Just wondering if drinking really retards the brain...

Officially, Friday was the last day of the work year. Dec 30th 2005. Ok, I did finish it with a nice bang, dropping down to MOS for the 2nd time in the week. It felt strange being at such a place so frequently, to the point that it almost revolts me. I guess i'm not a very clubbing kinda person, the idea of spending so much money to get yourself put in an enviroment where there's loud music, flashing lights, alcohol and Dancing just fails to turn me on.

OK, here's the wierd part though, Although i don't really like such places, Everyone thinks its hip, and cool and the place to be and ext ext. So,you try to be involved, you want to be in the Crowd, so you go even though it's not really your cup of tea. It's like you have to pay your social dues kinda. I am sure this doesn't apply to everyone. There are definately some people who love to go to such places because they REALLY enjoy the music and alcohol and i say to them "Go! have fun! enjoy!". Hahaha, yes, maybe I am really a boring old fart, that's like in Denial.

Tonight, There's another countdown party with my Church Group. We'are all suppose to dress in our Prom best. I mean, Ok, cool, i finally get to wear my suit since the last what 2years? The last time i wore it was on my Graduation day itself man. I mean very few people in Singapore will ever wear a suit. unless it's a wedding or your job requires it. Army guy like me....hmmm, neh~ but wait, there are occasions when i might need a suit now... It seems like in Mindef, Junior Officers will do Note-Taking on Diplomatic Calls with foreign armys.

Anyways, I think i'm going to Sleep soon before I bring the dogs out for their obedience training! :)

2005-12-28T07:29:00.000-08:00

I tried to accomplish alot of things today since I am supposed to be clearing my off.

Here are the stuff which i attempted to do.

1) Close some defunt Bank Account with UOB
2) Bank my US Cheque
3) Go to the tailors to take measurements for my uniform.
4) Get my CFA study notes
5) Get my Financial Calculator
6) Get a replacement Safari Bed
7) Finish up the Research Paper
8) Rest and Relax

ok... So here's the results

1) Done!
2) The silly Service Rep said that my Bloody Cheque is too old ! (More than 6months) so she could not bank it. Wah liao~! that cheque was basically, the balance of the bank account i closed in Canada. So basically i have to call up Canada, and get them to check through the records and than issue me another cheque. Guess what, i did call them and they told me it's not even a Sodding Cheque! it's a Bank Draft! no such thing as expiry as long as it's geniuine and bears the bank Seal! So... back to the local banks again. This time I'm just going to ask my own DBS bank to help me settle.
3)Ah~ the tailors. I lost the bloody recipe so they won't even bother to measure me. simply said, No original recipe, No go, No talk. Out of the shop... tsk tsk tsk. Now have to go an either find the recipe or go back to E-mart and see if they can print out another copy of the form.
4)Got the notes! *Arghh...my Credit card bill for this month will be soooo high. those notes costs $440!
5) Got the Calculator * arghh... another $95 (but it looks really nice though hahaha
6)Didn't even manage to go there
7) Concurrently still doing
8)Rest ? What rest? it's freaking midnight and i'm still awake!!!

Grww

Oh~ but in the midst of all that, i'm still pleased cos i found out something special about my Credit Card! Appearently, DBS Platinum Cards have a conceirge Service for my disposal! Wweee, So basically, I just called to ask them to help me find hotel rooms near Bukit Merah for NYE! gave them my Criteria (>$200) and they will come back to me with some quotes tml! Hopefully they will be able to find something because I tried myself and I've been told that all were fully booked! Not bad right? The Conceirge Service will book your tickets, Rooms, find Contacts, make reservations and stuff like that.

Wow, now that's called service man. I will update how effective DBS conceirge service and yes, it's all part of the perks of the Card so its part of the annual fees! :)

2005-12-26T19:45:00.000-08:00

I need to write a Research Paper...

By Tml... on any topic, 4 pages long.

ideas?

2005-12-25T23:34:00.000-08:00

I'm on leave Tml and the day after =) So...The family is going for a little get away to Malaysia. Someplace called Leisure Farm where we have some kind of Villa or something. I'm just checking out the weblink and it does look quite pretty. http://www.leisurefarm.com.my/villas.html

Oh~ my Sis got a job at Ben & Jerrys! yupz yupz, that ice-cream place. it's only $5 an hour, but she gets to bring back some extra ice-cream once a while i guess =) Heh heh heh, Ok... must not get too fat.

I'm already starting to feel the effects of the holis season, Lots of Good food, and Alcohol. tsk tsk tsk. + New years one is coming up, that's it. New year resolution must continue my running program.

2005-12-25T11:52:00.000-08:00

Ministry of Sound,
Good Ambiance, PURE rocks
Nice Crowd

Sis could be an excellent Door Bitch.
Merry Christmas