Showing posts with label 4D'09. Show all posts
Showing posts with label 4D'09. Show all posts

Big Guts

Sunday, October 14, 2012
Secret War Journal[14 September 2012]
Woah, I hardly could find time to blog nowadays. Funny how that actually sounds. I am now able to go home on Friday nights instead of Saturday morning and I still go back on Sunday nights yet time seems to move ever faster.

I guess I am really growing older. Only old people think time passes faster despite given the same amount of time.

Anyways, this is a short update on my life in army thus far.

I am failing my physical test again. One of a kind, I would say. I am not really sure the reason myself but it happened after I over-exerted my muscles on my first day there.

My strength had went downhill since then. Sometimes, I wonder if I contracted the muscles-destroying virus that one of my former section mates had then. I hope not.

I sure hope I can pass the physical test in one month. That is the time frame given to me by my superiors before I officially fail the entire leadership course. Definitely not a pretty sight. Let's see how sheer determination leads me to, huh?

I hope I can answer to you.

4 times denied
Just yesterday, I had a outing with Jie Sheng, Siew Yan, Bao Lin, and Cynthia. It had been a month since I last saw them. I must really emphasize - Time really flies! 

The original plan was to have some nice dim sum at Ajunied but the plan fell apart mainly due to my fault (and I was the organiser, how great is that?)

Bad things happened to me when I try to reach a place. Most specifically, it started when I want to visit my mum.

First, it all started on Friday morning. The outing was finalised on Thursday. I decided that since the venue was at Ajunied, I could go early myself on Saturday and pay my Mum a visit. I thought of that when I woke up on Friday morning early. Shortly after I decided to do it, I came down with a bad runny nose. I dare say the runny nose ruin my entire day. There were actually moments I thought I would be sick. (Meaning I would have to also cancel the outing altogether, now wouldn't that be sad?)

Second, was the moment I decided to carry out the plan anyways, since I woke up kinda early on Saturday and my nose no longer was acting up. At that moment, my family decided to use the washing machine (when I am the one who normally uses it on Saturdays), causing considerable delay to me since I had to wash my clothes after theirs. (In fact, I was so late I cannot visit my mother before the agreed time to meet the rest)

Third, my nose acted up again. I thought to myself then, it is okay. I can always visit after lunch, since it is near the place anyways. Straight after that, I sneezed and well, my nose acted up again.

Last, Siew Yan decided to change the venue, since I was so late. I guess it is fate. Funny when I sort of give up, my nose recovers. I wonder what is the intended message? I think I do not really want to know.

Why did I suffer so for something that should be my right? Must I be deprived the only few comfort I have in life?

Unseen
Another stupid moment occurred to me on Saturday as well.

I had a short mini heart attack when I left my house and headed for the bus stop. It was the same bus stop that I alighted from last night yet only now did I notice there were 2 bus stops on the same side of the street. I certainly felt quite mind-blown at that moment. Why didn't I see the second bus stop yesterday? I guess I was just too tired huh?

Everything went quite smoothly after this with minimal obstacles given to me. Thus, I reach the destination: Mad Jack in one piece, relatively unharmed (I guess?)

At that point, I realised how long since I last met them. Wow, I just have to say this again, it had been one month.

They had all consumed their lunch, save me. I am so late that I have to eat lunch alone while the rest of them just continued to chat. I have to thank Siew Yan and Bao Lin who ordered some dessert hence avoiding a awkward situation where everyone would stare at me eating. Hahas! I felt kinda bad though, Siew Yan should be saving money but I am indirectly causing her to spend more money. :S
--
After lunch, we proceeded to go shopping! It is time for me to resume my wardrobe renewal once again! At the same, the retail therapy would help. :P

While trying out clothes at some point of time, Siew Yan have to leave. Hmm, I did not get to bid goodbye, how not courteous of me. :O

Anyways, I bought a hoodie and a blue shirt. In the end, I did not get to buy a pair of pants. Dang! Sigh.

Total Recall 2012

Sunday, August 26, 2012
Secret War Journal[25 August 2012]
As humans, we all change. Some change more, some change less. Yet all change. As others progress while you are stuck in place, the feeling experienced is of sadness. The compulsion to move forward is overwhelming me, I need to take a step forward. A step towards a better future...


Review:
I understand that this 2012 film is a remake of the 1990 film. However, I did not have the fortune of watching the original film.

For this movie, I can safely label the film as an action-packed thriller. The action was indeed non-stop, a plus for movie-goers who wish for some action. Despite that, I should caution that the action is not exactly very thrilling. It felt bland, of which I am not very sure why. Perhaps, it bears resemblance to the Minority report hence making me unable to feel the adrenaline rush during the action scenes. Nevertheless, it is certainly nice to watch constant action while at the same time explaining the plot.

This movie also reminds me of closed-room mystery games where the main character forgot who he was.

The ending could had been better crafted, in my opinion. The ending presented left much to desired, as though an important component of the plot was unexplained.

As many would had guessed, it had been a long time since I last watched movie. For this particular outing, Jie Sheng was the one who planned it. Along with him are Bao Lin, Cynthia and Siew Yan.

Except for the guys, they are all studying in University now. Time sure pass very pass, huh?

Today was also the day I ate 90% of the sweet popcorns of the Jumpo-sized box, no thanks to Jie Sheng was got sick of the sweet popcorns all of sudden and switched to potato chips, leaving me alone to clear the remaining popcorns! Hahas! I think I have enough popcorns for the entire year already, sorry popcorn makers! :P

One hilarious event that happened today was also how Cynthia, who brought $50 to help us buy movie tickets and popcorns, went home with $51. One of the rare moments when one actually made money by a wide margin when helping people buy stuff. XD
--
After the movie, we had a chat at the rooftop. I am not sure about the rest but the scene there gave me release.

Spending so much time away from civilian life, I am finally able to do something I sort of wanted. Maybe one day, I would get to chat with close friends on a roof, on a hill, overlooking vast plains. For now, overlooking short buildings will do. Strangely enough, it gave me a sort of peace that I so rarely receive.


Tempted as I was to shout out loud then, I knew it was the right place to do it. One day, I should visit the hills to shout my lungs out. Perhaps then...
--
Before heading home, we met up with Cynthia's sister, Sharon, who was having desserts in the shopping mall too.

Then I am home, a foreign thing nowadays...

"For the past 33 years, I have looked in the mirror every morning and asked myself: 'If today were the last day of my life, would I want to do what I am about to do today?' And whenever the answer has been 'No' for too many days in a row, I know I need to change something." - Steve Jobs

BMT POP!

Sunday, July 8, 2012
Secret War Journal[8 July 2012]
Passing Out Parade (POP)
After a week of non-stop of rehearsal at Palau Tekong, we had finally reached the final stage for our performance.

First, we marched in with our armour and field pack. Sweaty we were from the long march, tired we were from the long journey, we marched in proudly. For today was the day we were no longer recruits. We were going to pass out to be a private in the army!

Due to the poor design of the uniform, many of us had injuries at the thighs. As a result, we had great difficulty marching straight forward. Despite that, we pressed on and put on a good show for everyone.

Marching in, we saluted the Chief of Army and the reviewing officer. After that, we stood to attention while the prize ceremony proceeded. After that, we marched off to return our weapons.

Returning to the parade square, we said our pledge, sang the National Anthem and finally performed the BMTC Roar.

My thoughts:

Finally! The moment had finally arrived!

After 4 months of training to be a soldier and marching a quarter of the borders of Singapore (24 KM), I am finally no longer a Recruit in the Singapore Armed Forces! :D


It was a long journey, I would say. One that certainly felt very long. Despite the physical trainings and months of regimentations, I cannot confidently say I am adapted to military life. This is partly due to my attachments to my civilian life.


Of course, I would not had been able to survive through the months of being a Recruit in the army without support from my friends. This includes my best friend, Johnston and Marcus. :)

I certainly cannot imagine life without your moral support and listening to my ranting when I am disgruntled with military procedures. :p


Not to mention other close friends like Cynthia, Keller, Jie Sheng, Meldon, Qi Xiang, Siew Yan, Wei Ting, (... the list goes on ;) and friends like Trevor, Lai Yin, Pei Shi who made effort to stay in touch despite less opportunities to do so since our graduation from junior college and for some who were currently in school.

Special mentions goes to Johnston, Marcus and Keller as usual who makes effort to stay in contact. I believe that is what keeps our friendship so strong after so many years. =)
Being a lazy person, sometimes I feel that I did not put in that much effort in keeping in touch with people. Thus, I really appreciate you guys who periodically organise meet-ups. :)
Adding to the list would be Cynthia. Thank you also for making efforts to stay in touch. Friends for ever! :D
--
After taking photos, we had lunch at Suntec City before I was herded by home by Marcus who proclaimed that I needed the rest after spending around 10 hours awake since last night. As a result, the rest of the boys went out to play while Wei Ting, Cynthia and I headed back home via cab. :O

[Update: I really slept like a pig, I woke up at 7pm, only to sleep again after dinner. Heehee!]



As a whole, I was actually quite amazed I went out with friends every time I booked out from camp. Sadly, that trend is unlikely to continue when I enter a new phase of army life as school is re-opening soon... not everyone would be as free as they were before.

Looking at the pictures taken during my time when I booked out, I had gone through a lot of fun. I would keep those fun memories. To tell the truth, I felt a bad sad as I looked through the pictures because I am uncertain of the future. I am uncertain when would be the next time I can meet up with everyone and have fun and chill again.

My vocation posting results would be out this coming Friday. I am hoping for the best, wish me luck! :S

"If it's natural to kill, how come men have to go into training to learn how?" - Joan Baez

Battleship

Tuesday, May 1, 2012
Secret War Journal[30 April 2012]
Care for a game of Battleship?
 
It has been a long time since I last played that board game. Hahas, certain readers would notice that it has been a long time since I last did anything (which is actually true, as hard as it is to believe. Look, so I had concentrated a tad too heavily on studies for a moment of time...). I certainly do not mind having a challenger once in a while for fun's sake.

Okay, so I know that the movie has been out for some time and I am really lagging behind for watching this late. But hey, at least I watched it! (Best excuse ever, in my opinion :)

Speed-track to Little India. Is there a cinema there? At least not one that I am aware of. So why were we there? Because Cynthia said so. :O Joking. We wanted to walk from Little India to Bugis Junction. Cynthia had walked before so the chances of us being lost should be relatively low. (Not to mention her superb sense of direction, compared to Bao Lin and me). According to the map (look I am better friends with maps XD), it should be a pretty clear-cut route with us heading roughly 20 degrees from the south, towards the east from Little India, a little past Rocher Centre to reach Bugis Junction. And so we headed out from the subway station, immediately sighting the Rocher Centre. Unfortunately, while we moved towards it, we met blockades in the form of construction sites. As a result, it was no longer a straight forward route as we make our way around these blockades.

We turned left and right, almost effectively walking in circles. Well, I would say it was a fun trip. Eventually, we walked a semi-circle from Little India to Bugis. Along the way, we discussed on our lunch and we decided on a Japanese Restaurant named Kazokutei which specialises in Udon.
 The reason we decided on Kazokutei was due to the Nabeyaki Udon + Katsu don set which is suitable for one or two persons.
Nabeyaki Udon + Katsu Don Set
After spending some time under the gentle sun (I think the days spent in army has lowered my tolerance for hot weather, ironically.) from the walk to Bugis Junction, I think Bao Lin was tired from the walk. Myself, I am not exactly sure if I was tired. I know that before being conscripted into army, such a walk is nothing but now... I am not so sure anymore. At least after my 3 day rest due to medical leave, my appetite has improved. As a result, Bao Lin and Cynthia shared a Nabeyaki Udon + Katsu Don set while I took on one myself. Bao Lin took that Katsu Don plus the mango soda she ordered while Cynthia had the remaining Udon.

Bugis Street, and the quest for a pair of glass shoes
After lunch, it is time for some shopping! I guess every one of us present has something in mind to buy. (Okay, maybe not for Bao Lin)

We spent a good hour and more in Bugis Street before Jie Sheng arrived. We then resumed our shopping in Bugis Junction. Unfortunately, lady luck was not shining on Cynthia, she did not succeed in getting a pair of shoes to her liking. I guess she just has to continue her quest another day. :O

Battleship the Movie
Siew Yan joined us for the movie!

My views on the movie? The introduction was really rushed. I cannot help but feel that the prologue was just there as a tool for some foreshadowing. Personally, it could be better weaved in the movie seamlessly without feeling disjointed.
The soccer scene before the actual start of the plot was all right for its character development. I believe where the movie really shines would be its climax, which is a very good thing. It makes the movie worth watching. The action was non-stop yet does lead one to feel nausea. Basically, the pace of the action during the climax was just right.
The use of comic relief from the scientist was well-used and appreciated. The character development during the climax felt a little bit rushed but still acceptable, I guess?
However, to my dismay, the ending was rushed very abruptly. I felt that it was uncalled for though the final scene of suspense was good, though critics would call that scene cliche.
Overall, I would give it a 3 out of 5 stars. :)

After the movie, we headed home, tired as we were.

Now, if you would excuse me, I need to plan an outing to watch Avengers. gah! XD

First Book Out

Friday, March 23, 2012
Secret War Journal[23 March 2012]
Ah, fresh air! It really feels good to be in the mainland after many weeks at a resort island. Hahas, strangely enough, the first thing I did was to get a new pair of spectacles. I was kind of glad that one of the optical shops was able to manufacture a pair of spectacles despite the majority of the shops informing that they could only prepare the spectacles earliest by Monday evening. However, due to the superb customer service at Capitol Opticals, they were willing to go the extra mile to make my spectacles by Sunday afternoon. For that, I am really grateful.
New pair of Spectacles,... some of the few models allowed for army...

Catch your wave
After helping with my family with some house chores, I met up with Bao Lin, Cynthia, Jie Sheng, Siew Yan, and Wei Ting for some catching up. I had not met them for so many days, I wonder how everyone had been faring since. We planned to meet at Tampines MRT station. Apparently, I was the last person to arrive. Oops? I guess the most important person always arrives last! XD
When was the last time I actually set foot on this restaurant? I really couldn't remember! Hahas, but we sure ate quite fast there, the serving there must had been quite small. :p It was kinda nice to see everyone are still living a carefree life. It sorta makes quite envious really. :S
(Don't worry, Siew Yan, my body is quite screwed too. :P)

Originally, I planned to buy some stuff for next book-in today but I guess I was too caught up with returning to my former civilian life and just have fun with friends. I even managed to play a game of pinpall after many years since I last played arcade seriously. Ah, childhood! :)

At one point, they concluded that I should get something to cover my shaven head. I personally think I would look weird in those hats and whatnot (I have my eyes on a certain type though but it just does not fit the dress code here, sadly... and definitely not with my shaven head!) though they have a point, I should get something to cover my head. I look weird with a bald head too! >.<

"In my dreams I hear again the crash of guns, the rattle of musketry, the strange, mournful mutter of the battlefield." - Douglas MacArthur

2011: For Friends

Saturday, December 31, 2011
Secret War Journal[2011][Long Post]

Ah, the last days of 2011 approaches.
What does it mean? It means that it is time to bid our good-byes.

This year, I decided that I shall call it the Year of Friendship.

Indeed, my friends. This year is dedicated to all who I deem as friends. There aren’t many, I know but know that each of you count. Numbers mean nothing to me.
After all, there is no point in claiming many as friends when you know at the back of your head that they are plotting your downfall.

Why this year, you may ask.
This year had been hella tough year. Family was not of much help (as usual). Of course, tolerating certain people also did not help much but I am glad that you people were there for me.
Some days when the days are cloudy and dark, you provide light to show me the way.
Some days when the days are bursting with tears, you provide shelter from its pounding droplets.
Some days when the days are beaming with sunlight, you would be there to bask in it.

In short, thank you for being there for me. :)
--
"A friendship can weather most things and thrive in thin soil; but it needs a little mulch of letters and phone calls and small, silly presents every so often - just to save it from drying out completely." - Pam Brown
--

Of special mention are the following people:
1.      Johnston
Thank you, my best friend. For being there, when I feel down. For being there, when I feel sick and tired of humanity. For being there, when I feel that there is no point in staying in this place. For being there, when I am at a loss of what to do next.
Thank you for making the effort to re-connect me to the world when I lost touch to the outside world.

2.      Emelia
Your cheerful self reminded me of my past, in a good way. I am happy that despite having fewer opportunities to meet up in person, we were still able to keep in contact via new media. :) Your efforts in making those cards and greetings did not go unnoticed. Thank you! ;)

3.      Marcus and Keller
Thank you both for setting aside time to go out with me for varying reasons. I do acknowledge that it takes some effort and patience to allocate a portion of your free time to go out. Unfortunately, you two sometimes became targets of wicked tongue when we meet because I am often in a foul mood this year. I’m sorry and can only hope for your understanding. I really appreciate how the both of you tolerated shit from me and kept our friendship alive. Thank you.

Keller and I should remain in contact either via Facebook or via mobile. :)

4.      Qi Xiang and Meldon
My bubbly friend, Qi Xiang who had, perhaps ironically, made the best group of friends during his two year in Junior College between Keller, him and I. Sometimes, I envy his life though most of the time I wonder why (often ending up in much hilarious results)
Meldon, Qi Xiang and I actually have some common interests which I believe had ensured hours of talking (which may had distracted our studies slightly this year)
Still, it was fun talking to them and I really enjoyed the conversations a lot. Not to mention, the laughter coming from those. ;)
--
I’m not really sure why but somehow I felt that staying in touch with everyone could start to prove to be difficult. Here’s my analysis on who I would likely to stay in touch after this year: (maybe you would notice a trend…)

Primary School Friends:
Johnston – I’m sure we would remain in contact after all these ordeals. :)

Emelia – Similarly, I doubt we will lose contact. :)

Marcus – Based on past experience, I believe Marcus will also take effort to stay in contact. :)

Jia Xin – Staying in touch with her may prove to be difficult in the coming years since there is little opportunity to meet up. However, I like how we are open to the idea of planning meet-ups. ;)

?? ??? – Highly unlikely to meet you again. Sigh. Promises are just too powerful.

Secondary School Friends:
Keller – I have faith that he would take the effort to stay in touch but who knows what may happen in the future? Worse case scenarios, there’s always Facebook :S

Qi Xiang – Meeting up with him always had been hard. Hahas! At least we still can contact each other via Facebook (unless Facebook goes into a downturn, oh no!)

Cynthia – Kind of surprised hearing her coming with a plan to meet up with the rest of the group which I guess warrants her name being placed here. Not bad, much improvement on her part. :p We shall see how much she is determined to get it going. It is not going to be easy, but I think she needs the experience.

Siew Yan – She and I discussed about possible meetups in the future. I’m not really sure it was light talk but I’m pretty serious with what I said – Obviously one would prioritise old friends over bunk-mates during the NS period because the opportunity to meet bunk-mates is so much higher during that period anyways. In my opinion, the real challenge, for me, comes after my national service. I think there could be a potential for a conflict of interests then.

Lai Yin – I guess she will make the effort? Strangely enough, her schedule and mine seems to clash a lot. I guess we have differing definitions of free time and work. *Shrug*

Junior College Mates:
Shereen – Ah, my god-daughter of mine. I trust that her constant worry that we lose contact after National Service would be cause enough for us to stay in contact. She is always afraid I would forget her after NS. Hahas, silly girl.
--
"Never have a companion that casts you in the shade." - Baltasar Gracian

And also other things...
2011 was surprising an eventful year. Time to review my wishlist for 2011,
score: 5/8.
Details here.

Dang, not as well as I had hoped for. Still, I guess it can't be helped.

After all, some matters are really not up to me to decide.

Weekends in 2011 were pretty much devoted to housework and judging by how things go, it would be the same for the next year too. Shucks.

Don't get me wrong, doing housework is okay. Demanding people to do housework EVERY DAY borders on insanity.

Of falsehoods
I decided to pretty much cease writing about my broken family except for really generic stuff that everyone else writes about. The rationale behind is that I realised that those posts are getting quite a number of people worried about me. That is unfortunately not what I want.

So, to have less people getting concerned over such matters, I decided to stop writing about such matters in this journal. Originally, I just write those to calm myself down. I am someone who needs to write some stuff to organise my thoughts else those thoughts would run amok in my brain. (which could make me quite insane at times)

While at one hand I'm saddened by the fact that I had to resort to this on this journal, I guess I would get used to it. After all, I put on a false front everyday.
--
"A half truth, like half a brick, is always more forcible as an argument than a whole one. It carries better." - Stephen Leacock

Changes for the coming spring,
I decided to abolish some formatting styles for my entries for 2012.

Instead of the usual cyan background header in my entries, I should now adapt a simpler larger font size with bold for my headers (with Georgia), like these in this entry.
I guess most reader would probably exclaim, "Thank goodness, I thought this day would never arrive!"
But I still wish to justify my rationale for using the cyan background for my headers initially. It was to provide for a high level of contrast for easier reading. Of course, at times, that made it look out of place in the entire journal, the harmony of colour seemed broken at some point of time.
Thus, I decided to restore the harmony at the cost of its contrast. Of course, if any of you have a better suggestion, please do tell me and I would consider them.

Another writing technique I am planning to change could be using Microsoft Office Word to write out my entries from now instead of the native engine available online. I believe Office Word would provide me with more options for formatting and more room for creativity. Of course, this means that the underlying code could potentially become more complicated. (But I guess it is not your problem, to speak of hahas!)

For this post, I used Office Word. I would like to say I really enjoyed typing there, as if typing here is not already a joy! Hahas!

Another advantage in using Office Word would be that I could type my entries even when internet is not available. I am not always at places where there is internet, unfortunately, and that had hindered my efforts to write my entries throughout this year.
Of course, there is also an issue of privacy when I am typing the entries. After all, I am not very comfortable with typing my entries in the presence of people, in general.

What about changing the design of this journal, you say?
Hahas! Sorry, I have no plans to change the current just yet. Let's just say my mood when I decided to use this design is still aligned with how I feel like now. :)

Okay, how about removing that irritating cover post that had been there for months? Sorry again, there was a reason in placing it there as it is. Until there are more reasons to remove than leaving it there, it will remain.

One, I do not want certain people to know this journal is updated and well. Second, it is easier to track who is reading my journal and what post they were reading via the URLs visited.
For some inconvenience, I think the benefits far outweigh the disadvantages thus far. So, no not a chance.

With Love, Leroy
There were, of course, many things that I wished I did not do. Nevertheless, this year was also a year where I felt there was some progress in my long-term goals.

  • I am nearer to completing one of my promises.
  • I felt the presence of my old self, like finally.
  • I met my grandaunt, another recollection of my past.
One day, I will return to my old life and leave this pathetic life that I live now. I am working towards it, watch me.
--
With 2011 coming to a close, I realised there were also quite a number of misses, namely:
  1. The inability to stay in contact with some people
  2. Unable to find time to meet up with cousins during weekends which puts me in a bad mood some days because I miss them :(
  3. The inability to spend time with myself and re-connect to my own world
  4. The inability to have the time to pursue my goals
  5. The inability to express myself due to physical constraints

I still sleep with much sorrow each day. This cannot last. Let's hope it ends this year.
What is this sadness that weighs me down? It is of loss. It is of denial. I feel so cold, where is the warmth in this world?
--
"A man who trusts nobody is apt to be the kind of man nobody trusts." - Harold MacMillan

Korean BBQ

Saturday, December 10, 2011
Secret War Journal[10 December 2011]
Ah, what better to celebrate the end of examinations but with a nice and tasty meal?

Yep, and that's what happened. :)

Joining us for this outing would be organiser Cynthia with fellow 4D-ians, Eunice, Jie Sheng, Siew Yan, and Wei Ting.
Clarissa joined us after the meal. :)

But before joining them for dinner however, I met up with Meldon to conduct some trading. Then again, this is not really a trade because both items are technically mine. Hahas.

It was a rather smooth transaction since we were rather clear on what we are doing.

Fast forward and we have all gathered at City Square mall, going towards the restaurant Korean BBQ. :)

In case any of you are wondering why we chose to go so far to enjoy a meal of Korean BBQ, it is because Cynthia's sister is working there so well.... we could pay her a visit in the mean time too. :p

Food! Sorry, I meant 음식!
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Check out their menu! Okay, you can't really since you're not there physically.

All right, I would try to describe to you verbally (if the picture above hadn't already). Hahas.
Frankly, I do not frequent korean restaurants very often. (Which many already knew, apparently, hahas)

Thus, personally, I was rather confused when I was presented the menu on its navigation. I know it is a korean restaurant and all and so it would write their menu in korean but really, it did not help me a lot since I read the Korean words before reading the english translations. (A big mistake, I admit but hey, everyone reads top-to-down, left-to-right. -,-)

By the time I recover, I figured it would be so much more efficient if we just communicate with the restaurant staff serving us instead of reading off the menu.

So in the end, I hardly touch the menu throughout the menu, not very useful in my opinion. Maybe it would be more useful for korean-fanatics but for causal diners like me, just order your food the posh way, from the staff. ;)

We ordered two hotpots and here we go!
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Feeling hungry already? Go down there yourself and savour the food! :P

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And we went home after the meal. ^^

Just joking! :)
For those who were sharp that I forementioned that Clarissa joined us the meal and cried foul. Good job! :)
How could we head home straight away the moment she arrived? That wouldn't had made sense. :P
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See? Even Jie Sheng couldn't believe that we went home straight after our dinner. :D
--
So what did we do? Window Shopping and spam group photos! :p
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Yep! Christmas is nearing! Bought your christmas presents yet? :)
--
Alright! It is getting late, it's 11pm+ now! Time to sleep! :)
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Not immediately hahas! Tsk tsk, Eunice's tired already, time to go!

P.S.: Eunice wasn't really tired, she was just pranked by us. Hahas! Evil us.

Credits: Bao Lin, Siew Yan and Wei Ting for the pictures. More photos at Facebook, if you can find me (that is). :p

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2

Saturday, July 16, 2011
Secret War Journal[16 July 2011]

The finale has arrived!!!

Wohoo! The long wait is finally over! Just watched this with Jie Sheng, Wei Ting, and Dolly. Sure was fun! :)

I bet many of you would be wondering why am I even watching this when I seemed to have so much criticism for Part 1 last year. Well, All I can say is, the movie looked promising.

The movie didn't disappoint me, it was really a finale fitting for the series. Compared to Part 1, the pace is not as slow and there were more action, obviously since the last major fight is present in this last section of the story.

This movie is also notable for the increase in comic relief, mostly from the book itself but it was to see that the director included that in to relieve some tense moments in the movie and lighten up the mood in the cinema.
(Note: Pay close attention to Lord Voldemort! Hahas!)

Book fans may be disappointed to know that some of the plot was edited in the movie but there is hardly surprising. Most movie adapted from books often differ from the original plot by varying degree.

However, there were still some anti-climax moments, but as a whole, it is not that bad a movie. :)

Transformers 3: Dark of the Moon

Saturday, July 9, 2011
Secret War Journal[9 July 2011]
This is going to be a short post!
 This week's Jie Sheng's Birthday!

To celebrate, we sorta planned to go watch Transformers!

But since school just started and things were very hectic at that time, only Johnston, Jie Sheng and I could make it for the movie.

Yes, it's sad but that won't stop us from watching the movie! :)
--
Alright, for the benefit of those who had not read up any reviews for this movie yet.

Some movie reviews blasted this movie for being senseless and being a movie meant for males.

Well, having watched the movie, I can't exactly blame them though I think it was a bit of a overkill by them.

Yes, the opening scene is really... excessive. The introduction of the actress who replaced Megan Fox was seriously achieved with too much fanfare.

That aside, Transformers is without doubt, the most action-packed movie of the year (until I found another in the remaining half of the year though I seriously doubt it because I will lack the time to watch that many movies for the rest of the year.)
I believe it is as action-packed as the previous two movies.

One should, however, also do note that some reviewers also commented that the action scenes are so much, it's hurting to the eyes. That is debatable.
If you are not a big fan of action movies, this is definitely not the one for you.

I would say this is a movie ticket well-spent. Rare from me. :)

"Just living is not enough.  One must have sunshine, freedom, and a little flower."  ~Hans Christian Anderson

June: Rite

Friday, June 17, 2011
Secret War Journal[17 June 2011][Long Post]
Kite flying
Hoo yeah! Second kiteflying this week! Awesome start for a day, no? (For a post too, hahas!)

Joining me today for today's meeting would be my 4D class clique namely, Christopher, Jing Ting, Lai Yin, Jing Ying and Guan Hui.

Despite Lai Yin asking us to bring kites for today, I didn't. Ha!

I wasn't intending to fly one since I just had one a few days back. Nevertheless, I still end up playing kite. Hahas!
--
After much kiteflying without much result (since it was hard to sustain the height that our kites reach), we headed out of the fields for lunch.

There was much debate as to what we should eat for lunch (we had been discussing this for ages. Hahas!)

After taking a slight detour, we decided to stop by Anchorvale Community Centre for lunch. Since Jing Ying was a vegetarian, we had instant noodles for lunch at 7 Eleven. XD

A bit pathetic but who cares? Hahas! Meanwhile, we played Monopoly Deal!

A pretty long game at that too, I wonder why I was slow in playing just now? Must be mentally tired, I guess. :S

Mr Popper's Penguins

Next up! We're now in Downtown East. As the heading above already revealed, the movie we're watching is Mr Popper's Penguins!

Actually, most of us had no real clue what movie was about (sorry for being an idiot? :p) and the idea was brought up by Lai Yin.

I can't really give much opinions about this movie since I had no real expectations.

Well, it's sorta funny? Hahas! But not as funny as Bruce Almighty.

Personally, I feel that the movie would look better if the Transformers movie trailer was not shown before this movie was played because the awesome action-packed scenes in the trailer really killed the mood for the actual movie because the contrast was too great.

JustAcia
My second time here! Hahas!

Originally, we wanted to go play pool or arcade. But....

For the pool, the place was packed and hence there were no available tables for us to play. XD

For the arcade, we didn't have the card to play there. Hahas.


Therefore, we ended up at JustAcia for our wonderful dinner. :)

Three of us had Herbal Chicken Rice Set. Jing Ting had Spicky Chicken while Jing Ying had Kimchi. It was nice! You should try it in the future. Continued playing Monopoly Deal until it was time to go home. :)

Alright, the time has come to shed an ounce of truth of what had conspired since last year. Since the event was officially over, I personally conclude that it is quite all right to disclose what happened.

Like one of my friend who recently revealed on my tagboard, there was a prank regarding my birthday a couple of months ago.

However, all these were anything but a part of the preparation for today.

You see, with the arrival of facebook, birthday greetings had been slammed with a feeling of insincerity since people would login into Facebook and find out that it's your birthday on that day itself.

Not much meaning is there? Thus, I conspired to hide my birthday on Facebook. Got a number of pals to post birthday wishes on my 'birthday'.

The objectives were two-fold - An excuse to hide my real birthday and mislead other people who didn't know when my birthday was into thinking my birthday was then.

The latter helps, in theory, to prevent people from getting cues from facebook posts on my wall later during my actual birthday. Thus, it serves as a form of confusion. Of course, it's only in theory, there are people who will vaguely remember and see through this amateur plot.

Nevertheless, today's post is actually meant to be a thanksgiving post. I would like to say my plan work relatively well and I would like to thank all of you for making my birthday so significant this year. After all, it's the thought that counts. :)

By chronological order:
    1. My sister -- who had been wondering why my birthday falls on the same day as a certain event. :)
    2. My dad -- Thank you.
    3. Shereen -- Hahas, my 'daughter' who had been bugging me to know when's my birthday. Thank you for your well-wishes and facebook messages later with the funny greetings which really brightened the day. :)
    4. Sally -- Thank you for remembering my birthday. Yes, I shall have a smashing year ahead! Hahas!
    5. Cynthia -- Thank you for remembering my birthday. Still stay up so late? Hahas. Really appreciated. :)
    6. Benjamin -- Ah fellow gemini whose birthday falls on the same day as mine. Thank you thank you. Hahas! :)
    7. Emelia -- Your unique way of wishing me happy birthday really made laughed out loud. Great timing, if you ask me. Hahas! Thank you.
    8. Shawn Teo -- Hey pal, thank you! :)
    9. Janice -- Hi jie, thank you! :)
    10. Bao Lin -- Thank you! It must had been tough sending to all three of us. Rest well! 
    11. Qi Xiang -- Thank you! Don't feel too bad about the kiteflying yeah? What matters is that we have fun!
    12. Francis -- Thank you expert cuber! Go break the Singapore record okay? I will be supporting you, hahas! ;)
    13. Aunt Michelle -- Thank you! Have a great time in London! :)
    14. Shi Ming -- Long no see, thank you. Wonder how's life on your side?
    15. Jing Ying -- Hahas, you cute, facebooking me when I'm in front of you and sipping hot chocolate. XD Thank you. 
    16. Eunice -- Yes, you got my chinese name right at last! Joking, thank you :)
    17. Jia Pei -- Thank you, I see you post on the walls of all three of us. Hahas!
    18. Yuki -- Hey! You tie with Jia Pei! Hahas, thank you, I really enjoyed today! :p
    19. Travis -- Thank you Junior iCC chairman!
    20. Rena -- Thank you Junior iCC Chairman! Hahas, coincidence much? :p
    21. Sock Yii -- Thank you pretty junior! :)
    22. Shi Jie -- Thank you junior!
    23. Wen Rui -- Thank you. The conversation was funny to me. :p
    24. Wei Jun -- Thank you junior! ;)
    25. Johnston -- Thank you best friend! Hahas, thank you for coming up with such a unique of wishing me happy birthday! :)
    26. Ivy -- Thank you!
    27. Tze Yui -- Hey cousin! Thank you! Tap tap is fun, you know? XD
    28. Joan -- Thank you! Hahahas! It's really fun whenever you join in the conversation. Hahas!
    29. Qi Xian -- Thank you cousin! Mario rocks! LOL
    30. Siew Yan -- Thank you for your attempt to send it at 11:59PM (which is now) :)
    31. Update (18 June):
    32. Gideon --Thank you junior! I will try to 'bump' into you more often in school! Hahas!
    33. Keller -- Thank you, Johnston, Keller, Marcus, Qi Xiang for the cake and everything else! (More on my next post) Thank you emelia too for the present! :)))
    34. Marcus --Thank you once again! Hahas! Thank you for sending me the pictures as well. ;)
    35. Jie Sheng -- Hahas so creative! I hope my reply to you was just as creative. HA!
    36. Yan Mae -- Thank you! :)
    37. Ying Ying -- Thank you though why are you still calling me a geek? Hahas!
    38. Pei Wen -- Thank you!
    39. Update (19 June):
    40. Jia Hong -- Hey long time no see! Thank you!
    41. Update (20 June):
    42. Clarissa -- Yes very late. Hahas! Thank you!
    43. Update (21 June):
    44. Timothy -- Hahas, it's okay I knew you had tuition. :) Thank you!
    45. Erin -- Thank you Erin! BizClub President! ;)
    46. Update (25 June):
    47. ZhenYao -- Thank you! Ironically, that day was my sister's birthday...

Actually, looking at this list now, I would say the operation was highly successful. Look at the date range. Hahas, I bet I never experience this before in previous years. Thank you buddies for making the operation so successful. Over and out.

"I'm not telling you it's going to be easy - I'm telling you it's going to be worth it." - Art Williams

May: The Month of a Million Birthdays

Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Secret War Journal[31 May 2011]
My good friend, the Czar asked me to post about his post so here goes!
So, the Czar is back in his second installation of a-post-a-week, a worthy effort on his part, and no doubt a reason for his recent mental fatigue. The intense concentration and discipline required for the fruition of this post has simply been unprecedented in nature. In fact, the Czar’s advisors have repeatedly warned against the plausible consequences of continuing on with this madness; the Czar just shrugged it off and trudged onwards. After all, the promise has been made.
And only the weak break promises.



H
ere, as the end of May nears and June approaches, I can’t help but feel overwhelmed. It’s not only due to the impending doom that many predicted would occur (the Mayans got it wrong; December 2012 is a lie. It’s September 2011, A’ levels period). Instead, I think it’s also because of the many events that occur this month.

Ah yes, this is the month with an absurd amount of birthdays. I had to congratulate many of my companions on their arrival to the world some many years ago. Not that it’s often worth celebrating (yes, to all my haters out there, I’m talking to you).

Probably a direct result of this monstrous behemoth of a birthday cluster is presents. The sending of presents. Of course, the Czar is not mindful of the number of gifts required; he is after all in possession of a large plentitude of wealth. Money simply isn’t an issue.
…is what I’d like to say. Sadly, things are quite the opposite — I’m broke.

Perhaps I’d better start saving up. Money management has never been part of my good points. Even so, I hope that my lack of material obligations are much made up by my mental and spiritual contributions. My well-wishes are all sincere and from the depths of my heart. And even if you have never (and probably will never ever) received a present from me in its physical form, you can be sure I have one for you. Emotionally. In my heart.
Yes, really.
Back to May; One thought often springs to mind — why are so many people born in this month? It is as though people decided to give birth en masse. I’m getting close to knowing someone with a birthday on each and every day of the month. And I don’t even have many friends (cues sad smile from the Czar)!
Interesting, isn’t it? Makes you wonder what is so special about the nine months prior to May.

Regardless, with a million birthdays naturally comes a billion birthday wishes. And the trend nowadays for birthday wishes are these little Facebook wall-posts. In fact, I dare say that you get more birthday wishes on your Facebook wall than in real life conversations. Or even conversations over the phone. Hell, even SMSes are rare.

That is … if your friends remember your birthday in the first place. Well, how tough can it be? After all, even if you forget it (or don’t even remember it in the first place, you lousy bugger), you will be reminded of your friend’s birthday on that day itself. Even if your date of birth is hidden, it will all be over when a close friend posts “Happy Birthday!” on your wall. Cry “havoc!” and let slip the dogs of war!

Here, think about it. What are the value of birthday wishes today? Before the inception of social networking sites such as Facebook, the average person has to remember his friend’s birthday by heart. Of course, some would cheat a little and mark it on their calendars, but that’s the most one can do, and even that would require some effort. Now, you don’t even have to do anything other than to log in to Facebook daily. Who knows if that person wishing you a happy birthday is doing it with sincerity or as a part of his daily log-in routine? In fact, I’ll even go so far as to say that 1 in 3 of those who post on your wall wouldn’t know about it if not for Facebook.

Don’t believe it? Try hiding your date of birth and getting a few friends to fake some birthday wishes. You’ll be surprised at the results.

Anyway, things aren’t all bad. After all, you do get a billion birthday wishes on your birthday; an effective ego boost no doubt, and a significant, though temporary, income increase if your friends are the gift-happy kind (hmm … the Czar needs more birthdays a year to cope with his financial crisis and feel less overwhelmed). Of course, all that pales in comparison with the warm, fuzzy feeling you get when your close friend celebrates your birthday with you. But, perhaps it all can’t be helped. We humans appear to be unstoppable in our thirst for a convenient and automated world. Maybe in the near future, even the birthday presents you receive may be generated automatically by some program. So before things like that happen, enjoy your birthday and it’s special meaning. Especially that one person who’s having her birthday today.

Yes, you! I’m talking to you!
spacespace
The point?
Look at the first letter of each paragraph.
In case you didn't get what the post was trying to say, it's a novel way to say Happy Birthday. Sorry, I had to spoil it because otherwise, I can't continue my post. Haha.

This post is to wish a number of people whose birthday falls in the month of May! Most of you would never ever see this post, but hey it's the thought that counts (in my opinion)

After all, if the Shadow King reveals himself, he will be very short-lived as a Shadow King, isn't it? ;)

By Chronological order:
  1. Clarissa, :p - 5th May
  2. Joan - 13th May
  3. Siew Yan, you probably will never read this but... the speaker and card were by Johnston :) Meet up soon yeah? - 23th May
  4. Zheng Yao - 23th May
  5. Janus - 24th May
  6. Marcus, well.... HAHAs, hope you liked it - 24th May
  7. Simin - 24th May
  8. Dion - 26th May
  9. Gideon, my junior! - 26th May
  10. Mr Quek - 26th May
  11. Pei Si - 27th May
  12. Angeline, just realised I don't have your mobile number. Hahas, had to use Facebook to wish you Happy Birthday after all - 28th May
  13. Kelvin, hahas I really like our maths rep deal, win-win situation :) - 28th May
  14. Last and foremost, my dad. Actually this post is dedicated to you, which is why I'm posting this today. Not bad for a closure yeah? (Nah, I will never tell my parent or siblings about this blog) - 31st May

I know I don't have much left. I'm trying hard to continue my life. I know I still have two of you with me. I will try hard to stay happy and not worry you so much. Sorry. Ah..... sounds so emo, enjoy your special day today and don't too much. :)

"I can't change the direction of the wind, but I can adjust my sails to always reach my destination." - Jimmy Dean

Sucker Punch

Monday, March 28, 2011
Secret War Journal[24 March 2011]
"Awesome day. Hahas" That was my cliff notes for this post and I think it's super hilarious for me to write that. (Still laughing, oops)

Okay apart from the fact this week's buzzword for me is "Awesome", though many of you probably already realised I mostly meant it in a sarcastic way. That's a tale for another day. Fortunately, this movie outing occurred before this week so the word "awesome" is meant literally. :) Saved by the virtue of the fact that...

Skin-deep or Cell-deep?
For this movie outing, Cynthia's the organiser.
Apparently,... actually forget it. I think it's too chaotic to be written down in words. Just know that everything was done on the spot, the movie to watch, where to watch, everything. Haha. I say Chaos at the cellular level.

Buddy Hoagies
Attendee(s): Johnston, Eunice, Clarissa, Siew Yan, Bao Lin, Cynthia

Ah, before I forget. Let me mention that today, 24 March, marks the end of my March Block Test! Of course there's a cause for celebration! No?

Anyway, after much discussion, we headed off to E!Hub to have lunch!

The restaurant we went to dine at was one named Buddy Hoagies.  It sells affordable western meals! :)

I ate the Flame Grilled Chicken and it's not bad, definitely go try it out when you see a Buddy Hoagies resturant nearby. ;)

Sucker Punch, the Movie
Shoot, I'm running out of time. Let's jumpstart to the movie itself then.

I don't care what other might say but personally, I would relate this movie to one similar to Inception. The plot is rather complex which is actually thrilling to watch, plot-wise. However, the motivation of the plot was left unexplained which was a letdown in some ways. Of course, if you're someone who just wants action without much reasoning, then this movie suits you.
Yet, if you're a big fan of action, I would recommend you to instead watch Transformers: The Movie as it is more action-packed. Sucker Punch is a movie that goes from slow to high-gear then back to slow and so on.
Thus, one can say Sucker Punch is more of a generalist than of a specialised movie focused on one genre.
Sucker Punch incorporates a large amount of one's fantasy, much like Alice in Wonderland and one thing that I really appreciate about Sucker Punch was the director's use of movie technique.

The use of foreshadowing is very apparent in this movie, from the start to the end, subtle hints are dropped from scenes to scenes that allows your subconscious mind to already to be aware of what's going to happen yet at the same time, leaving you a sense of suspense. This, I feel, is very well done as it helps to enhance to the plot.

However, one technique I believe was badly used would be the slow motion scenes in the movie. Initially, I was impressed by it for the first few fight scenes. After a certain point, especially at one particular scene where almost every move was in slow motion, the technique was used too excessively which led to a negative afterthought about the scenes as it was far too slow for a fight scene and that particular move didn't seem to be of any significance (if it was used for a finishing move or one that would be critical for the finishing move i.e. the third move). Apart from that, this movie is still pretty decent despite the name. I'm not sure of the true meaning behind the movie unless what I suspect is true (but that doesn't make much sense in the plot. Okay, perhaps a little bit but...)

Really appreciated Johnston sacrificing his other events to join us. Thanks! :)

"Fear not darkness for that is when the stars shine the brightest" - Anonymous

Of arguments and philosophy

Monday, March 14, 2011
Secret War Journal[14 March 2011]
Rare are the days I can finally post on the actual day itself. Rare, indeed. Hahas. Well, that is if I finish this post in half an hour anyway. :)

So I have been promoted to JC2 if you had not been following due to the recent chaos and today marks the start of the March Block Tests.

The first paper would be General Papers. Fancy attending for examinations during your holidays. How great is that?

The paper was tough, not a very bright start.

I did some essay question on space exploration. Not sure if I made the right choice...
Halfway through, I sorta end up writing philosophy though I went back on track (hopefully)
The comprehension was scary, especially the summary.

I hope I pass. I hope. O.o

Had KFC with Bao Lin, Cynthia, and Lai Yin. Tried this new Hearty meal (I think it's called that.)
Left for Simei where I meet with Darian and Johnston for Burger King. ^^

Thanks Darian and Johnston for helping me out for Physics! Much appreciated! :)

Didn't really want to blog about this but... actually, today is White Day, exactly one month after Valentine's Day.

This day is mostly celebrated by Japanese but I doubt that would be so this year with the recent earthquake (and its aftershocks) and tsunamis in Japan...

Not a very joyful day, or this period of time for that matter...

Anyway, be Strong, Japan.

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1

Tuesday, December 21, 2010
Secret War Journal[25 November 2010]
The penultimate movie for Harry Potter is out!

I don't think I need to explain why it is penultimate and not the final movie, right? :)

Anyways, this is an outing organised by Wei Ting. :)

We went through a lot of hurdles to have this movie outing, well sort of. Hahas, I will illustrate why later, sort of. XD
--
I have school that morning but since the lessons end like super early, like 10AM and we plan to watch the movie in the afternoon, This means that I had plenty of time to go eat breakfast/lunch/brunch with Pei Shi, Laura and Debbie. :)

After that, I headed home. Wei Ting and I decided to meet up earlier to buy the movie tickets.

We went to buy snacks for the movie. Wei Ting already bought milk tea beforehand, super smart. She went to buy fried mushroom while I decided to buy Prawn Crackers later. I decided to forgo popcorn since no one want share cost with me. Hahas!

15 minutes before the movie starts, Bao Lin and Jie Sheng have not arrived! Oh dear, I was starting to panic. Wei Ting called Bao Lin while I called Jie Sheng. It turns out that Jie Sheng was still in CCA. Noooo! He was like saying that most likely he cannot make it for the movies. I was like, "Come man, I bought the movie tickets already!" Hahas, evil me.

In the end, Jie Sheng and I reached a compromise. He would rush to the cinema. When he reach, he would get me a call and I would come out and give him the ticket. There, settled. :)

Bao Lin, on the hand, was able to arrive at the nick of time. I think she ran or something. O.o

Luckily for Jie Sheng, the advertisement for this particular movie at that particular timing was unusually long. After roughly 10 minutes after we had entered the Cinema hall, the movie had not started yet. After around the 20th minute mark, I received a call from (yep, you guessed it) Jie Sheng. (Smack yourself in the head if you guessed wrong, haha!)

By then, the movie has started by a bit. :O

Now, about the movie. The movie was, in general, not bad though the middle of the film was rather anti-climax in my opinion. I guess it is because the opening was so climatic and adrenaline pumping that makes the audience demanding more action only to be disappointed that the middle was somewhat lacking in that manner.
As you would had probably heard from other reviews, this film is more towards the romance genre. I can't say I disagree for that matter. Hahas.

I know there is a need for the movie to be split into two parts but I feel that it would be much better if it just one big film. It would definitely be much nicer. :)

Oh, if you intend to watch this film, here's a word of advice: go re-read the book first! ;)

I believe we headed home after the movies so see you all at the next post then. :)

Rapunzel: A Tangled Tale

Thursday, December 16, 2010
Secret War Journal[16 December 2010]
Finally, after so long, I have managed to pull off an outing. (I'm a lazy person, organising kills brain cells at a very high rate. Hahas)
Attendee(s): Bao Lin, Cynthai, Dolly, Jie Sheng, Wei Ting

Well, I will rush to talk about the movie first. :)

Rapunzel: A Tangled Tale is one of the best movies I had seen for 2010. In fact, I will strongly recommend anyone to go watch unless you people think it is too 'lame' then I have no comments.
For the record, this movie is considered a comedy by me, which was basically I went to watch. Hahas!

Apart from it being extremely hilarious until the ending, one should also take note the hard work required to animate the god-knows-how-many strands of hair she has. It is well animated for something so crazy. Hahas! However, logic wise, there's some places where the hair goes extremely short. I wonder why, okay, I know the reason. Hahas!

Still, it's a disney movie so you can see some of the elements of it are still the same, including those I don't like.  But hey, it's one of the few movies that actually impressed me. XD

Nex Serangoon
This is a new shopping mall which is very messy in my opinion. Well, the people above us really did a good job making full use of all the land space provided but at the cost of making the place too crowded as every spare space offered by pathways are taken up by portable stalls.

Well, on the bright side, this shopping mall sells almost anything. Well, wonder why it me feels that I should not go back there? Maybe because it's too confusing for someone like me who has no sense of direction to be in...

Megamind and Résultats

Wednesday, November 17, 2010
Secret War Journal[12 November 2010]

Official Promos Results

Ah, the verdict.
So yeah, I got promoted. For one reason or another, my economics was moderated up. So instead of a sub-pass (S), I have a E grade. Not bad, at least I officially pass...

But I'm still deciding whether I should drop though...I'm like at the opposite spectrum of distinction right now, dropping would be much more wise right now. Hmm....family ain't that much help since they don't even know what advice they giving when they don't even know what JC is... =.=|||

Maybe...

Megamind: The movie

Moving on, I recently watched the often-mentioned movie called Megamind!

This was organised by Lai Yin though I doubt she intended to watch a movie. Hahas!

Here's a bit of background information: XD

Well, originally Lai Yin wanted to organise a trip to Jurong Bird park (I still not very sure why...) with Jun Yong, Shi Min, Cynthia and I.

Well, obviously a lot of people didn't want to go there and Shi Min was not free (not very hard to figure, hahas) so she suggested going to Zoo (don't look at me, I don't know) or Shopping(I don't think Jun Yong will want to go that...)
To cut the story short, she decided to ask the 4D clique for shopping. Since it was so last minute, the couple couldn't make it, and Lai Yin actually didn't ask Guan Hui(so smart of her....=.=). Well, I figure she thought Guan Gui got lessons so she never asked (but we never know....)

Vanessa came and when we met up, (for the record, I tag along because I wanted to buy something, hahas!) she was wondering why a shopping outing out of the blue. (I agree on that but that's because no one wanted to go Bird Park or Zoo. XD)

Vanessa was thinking why not just catch a movie instead which I agreed straight away. (Note: Lai Yin was away during our planning. Heehee.)
We went to discuss what movies were on show right now. Vanessa wanted to watch the Social Network. I was fine with that.
Thus, that was our new plan to hijack Lai Yin's plan:
  • Go to Cinema
  • See the timeslots
  • Buy tickets, regardless of whether Lai Yin approve or not
  • Go watch movie
  • Continue Shopping
Did I mention Lai Yin was on a media fast? (Another queer thing about her.)

That made the plan not as easy as planned. Hahas. Lai Yin was very against watching movie. (The media fast was so extreme, apparently she did not play PS3 at Laura's house. :O Wow.)

Wonder what prompted her annual media fast. But anyway, we're not going to let a simple media fast interrupt our plans! Hahas!

So began our conquest to drag her to the ticketing booth to buy the tickets. That was the easy part.

However, there was a slight change of plans, the Cinema at Bugis Junction was not airing The Social Network. Vanessa and I made a compromise and went to buy 3 tickets for Megamind instead.
Well, I have heard quite a lot about Megamind from friends and the feedback was rather positive so I figure it would be a nice movie. :)

Here comes the really crazy part, right after we bought our tickets, Lai Yin announced to us that she was going home, we can watch the movies by ourselves.

*Shocked*

At this moment, Lai Yin started some "hide-and-seek" game which was took us in circles in search for her. That made Vanessa sort of pissed. :O
Well, can't blame her, who could had thought there are people so opposed to a simple movie screening? :O

After all those craziness, we managed to convince her to stay at a shop called "Guess".

Guess what? Vanessa and I had no clue where that shop was. Hahas!
Best part? The shop was just near the entrance of Bugis Junction. So epic fail for me man, hahas. I never knew that bag shop there was called "Guess". =.=
--
Final compromise after negotiation with Lai Yin (we sort of did this at the Coffee Bean in Illuma):

She would go in with us since we already bought the tickets, don't want to waste that ticket. (and it would be awkward.)
Since she's on a media fast. We provided her with a solution: Just go in, and sleep. Hahahas!

We went for the movie. The rest of them was too full since we going for snacks after luncc but I ordered a medium popcorn with drinks since I felt strange to go into a cinema empty-handed without the usual eating(habits, I guess). They convinced me not to go for the large popcorn, hahas!

So, in the end, our plan succeeded hahas!
--
Well, the movie was definitely worth the money spent. :)
The plot was well-written but I'm a sucker for the subtle reenactment tactics(not sure if the rest realised that) so I could be bias, heehee.


Furthermore, Megamind belonged to my favourite genre of movies - Comedy so naturally, if it is able to give me a decent laugh, I would give it an above average rating. ;)
But I must admit, the beginning was like a joke drought, nothing funny happened there. :O Can't really blame them though, the technique they use for the beginning don't really have much room for jokes. But hey, once the jokes comes, the fun begins. ;)

Oh, and Lai Yin? She didn't manage to sleep in the cinema in the end. She ended up watching after skipping the first few parts. (maybe 30 minutes?)

We all knew she would end up watching the movie, no? >=D

Now, shopping resume. Hahas!

Shopping! (Again?!)

Well, that day, we bought presents for Pei Shi and Debbie (a bit late, but it's the thought that count. :P)

Lai Yin keep patronise this childish looking shop which Vanessa started to pull Lai Yin away after the third time we ended up at this shop. (Super funny I tell you.)

Vanessa? She spent all on food. Hahas! (P.S: Don't kill me! XD)

After heading home, I bought some stuff for myself. Another off the wishlist for this year. Yes! I think I spent a lot this year though, a bit broke. :(

Seed of Darkness

Monday, November 15, 2010
Secret War Journal[14 November 2010]
I never actually intended to have this post. I have another post in draft mode that was supposed to be published but there has been a turn of events in the past few days.

Amazing, I never expected this. It was never anticipated, I never expected you all to be dragged into this. It was supposed to be some other matters that I personally have to get into terms with.

But at this stage, it's getting hard to ignore. Too much hints dropped everywhere lately, too much implications at such a late stage. Yes, we're all fools. At least I am, that's for sure. Why didn't I foresee it, when I foresee other stuff that I cannot alter. Maybe I did, but it was so obscured, I actually messed up the timing of it. I didn't know it would be something so large a scale, something that would affect so many people, something that would affect people I know. That vision. That vision held people I never met before, how could I had known. How could I known God was trying to warn me. I'm a fool.

I should have known, that the devil moves with me. So my darkness comes, and I knew I had brought sadness and pain to many. I should be ashamed. I will rue this day, the day light turns thin, where many of us who were war-weary have to withstand this.

I think it is time to choose a side. Too long had I remained neutral. Too long had I idled. But memories of the past still ache, echoes in me, the consequences of intervening is extremely dire. Must it be so, is my presence that significant anyway?
But, this I cannot ignore. Too much is at stake. Debts need to be repaid. Brotherhood needs to be held. Promises need to be uphold.
Parties will be hurt, whether I like it or not.

Yet I hope to remain neutral after all this, I yearn for peace...there must be a way to resolve this peacefully, there must be a way to achieve a win-win solution.

History has taught us that no one wins a two-front war. Have mercy on my friend, why now? What have we done when we wish for peace? Is it my past sins? Is it my misgivings? Why attack my friends? Why can't you just target me instead. I deserve more blame than anyone else. My sins cannot be atone in this lifetime. God alone knows that. People died, sorrow, disappointment, if you have such hatred, then direct them to me instead.
I cannot win a three-front war, yet it seems part of God's designs that I would be a part of this.
Does anyone ever win a three-front war? I have no wish of finding out.

Nevertheless, I need to prepare. Perhaps the covert war had already begun without me knowing. I must be the slowest among them all...

In the end, no amount of anticipation could prepare us for this, huh?
And darkness rides once more...

Shopping Spree!

Friday, October 8, 2010
Secret War Journal[June 2010][Long Post]
Hey, some forepost here. June Holidays is almost over. So this is really going to be a long post(hence going to take a really long time to finish this). Perhaps the longest post ever. Maybe not. Hahas! As the title goes, this holiday, I bought lots of things. ^^

Motorola DEXT
MOTOROLA DEXTYep! First up, I got a new phone and yes. Rather shockingly, it's a Motorola. It's been eons since it produced a noteworthy phone and when they started to produce smartphones, I'm such a kind soul to support them. ;)

It's not bad though it's pretty reliant on internet usage since its the phone with 'socialising skills'. Hee!

Full Tech Specs here

Since I got the phone, I've been spamming. Now I wonder would the keyboard there break....Well, I hope not. Hahas!

P.S: First month: 1.4k SMSes. Did I spam too much? Hahas!

Laptop -- Inspiron 14R
I bought it early this holiday so right now I'm not right sure of the technical specs anymore. I mean hell, I'm not even sure if the model name is even correct! Hahas!

Well, it's best suited for surfting the net but I realise it is installed with Microsoft Office 2007. Not only that, it comes with the installation disc. Woots! Maybe I should install on my desktop when the beta for Microsoft Office 2010 ends this October. :)

With this laptop, I don't need an external hard disk for my backups anymore. Hahas! I just need to sync the laptop with my desktop work documents. Woots! Now there is lesser consequences when my desktop dies. ^^

However, this laptop is largely for my step-mum. Hee, I want to get a more heavy duty laptop for my gaming, and to replace my desktop of course (but only when it dies. :)

Karate Kid, 4D Class Outing
Ah, a Class Outing for the June Holidays just completes the Holidays experience. Hahas!

This time, we went to watch a movie called "Karate Kid".  The main character is cast by Will Smith's Son, Jaden Smith. Jackie Chan looks very old in this movie, maybe time has caught up to him? Hmm... but I think is just the movie because his character is supposed to be sort of depressed and introverted, I guess. :O

Overall, the movie was okay, not really nice nor bad. Just okay. I like the part where Jaden Smith goes with Jackie Chan to drink some sacred water before he could begin his training. That part was fun and cool.;)

It's great to meet classmates again. We will complain about how JC life is tough, how we miss each other and of course, arguing whether JC or Poly is more tough. Hahas! But I think slowly, by slowly, everyone is adapting to our new school. :) At least, that's what I believe anyway. Hahas!

This time is a bit special, I think. We met straight away at Plaza Singapura instead of Compass Point. I felt a bit weird going towards there alone to watch a moive. In the past, I don't like to go to Plaza Singapura alone because of the confusing exits from the MRT Station. (They still are confusing, but I'm getting better okay? Hahas!)

So basically, class outing was for us to catch up with each other, as always. Hahas!

Infocomm Graduation Day 2010
No, don't get the wrong idea, I had already graduated from Infocomm Club last year. ;)
This picture above was taken near the venue. ;)

Before I begin, I'm sure you people must be wondering. If you had already graduated, where are you attending this ceremony then? Well, for starters, we love Infocomm Club! Hahas. Secondly, the Club is using our prize money that we won during our service to Infocomm Club. During the ceremony, Mr Goh even showed us a financial report of how the funds were used. Hahas! That made my day. :)
Thirdly, our batch didn't really had a graduation ceremony partly because there so few of us. 

Alright, let us begin. This graduation party was organised by our juniors, Secondary 3. We're having at Mr Goh's house. So cool! (Coincidentally, Ponti's house is nearby. Hahas! She totally freaked out :)

For this party, I brought along Johnston and Lera. Everyone from my batch came; Keller, Qi Xiang, Christopher, Zi Ying, and Jian Zhong all came. Yay!

I really like to thank the organisers for letting us to have such a fun time there. Good job guys and girls! :)

I remember the first game as that we split into groups and we're supposed to go treasure hunting for fragments of a photo puzzle and we're supposed to piece them up.

We, seniors sort of cheated because we have a larger than allowed group size. In our group, all seniors(that's 5, christopher was not here yet), Johnston, Lera, Mr Goh's Children (that's 2). That's a total of 9 people. Mwuhahas!

So naturally, we're one of the winning team, with the help of juniors of course. Mutual Win! :D

We had more bonding games and I'm sure Lera enjoyed her time there as well. Hahas!

Finally, we watched movies and held the graduation ceremony and many other graduating people were surprised (and touched?) followed by buffet for dinner! Wohoo!

Photo Time! ;)
Johnston and I

Johnston and I. We're going to kill this bunny if you don't comply with our demands. ROFL.
*Note: No animal were harmed in the process. XD*
Group Picture!

Group shot! Everyone's in here! Try to find Zi Ying. (No offence! :D)
Qi Xiang, Leroy, Keller

The Epic counter-attack of the Balloon Strike - Another Balloon strike. Hahas!

Not to mention a funny video that Keller has so kindly to help star in this video. Enjoy! ;)



I would also like to thank Johnston and Marcus for their wonderful birthday present. =]

Leroy, John, ZiYing, Qi Xiang, and Keller

I would like to thank Qi Xiang, Keller, and Zi Ling for buying for my Birthday. Really appreciated!

That's the end of this long post. See ya! :)

P.S: Sorry, for this super duper late post! I know it's October now and these were supposed to be post by June. Please understand that I had examinations after my holidays which really robbed of my time to post this. Well, anyway, hope you enjoyed this long post. Hahas!
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