The party turned out pretty alrite, just a small problem with the wings. Here's a lil tree i took. Was rather quiet this round, but still, we manage to have a few good laughs.
Tuesday, December 26, 2006
Have yourself a merry lil christmas.
The party turned out pretty alrite, just a small problem with the wings. Here's a lil tree i took. Was rather quiet this round, but still, we manage to have a few good laughs.
Wednesday, December 20, 2006
Another Year In Review
It's raining again. Or should I say it's been raining since yesterday noon, and it didnt even halt for a bit since then. I've not seen the sun for two days now. Its 2am and I'm still wide awake. Perhaps its the rain dripping thru my ceiling just right above my room's wooden door or maybe it's just the 1 hour nap i took at 10pm earlier. Either way...i guess it matters not now, as i intend to write something which I've wrote the very same day, last year.
So here's what I have done/achieved/screwed up/etc during this year of the 2006.
1. Last year - it was the 'new' JOB. This year, there is no new job. Though I'm beginning to get bored of my now, not-so-new job. Maybe next year, it would be the no.1 thing again. Then again, for this year...i suppose the most drastic change would be myself. I noticed, I've grown much more matured now.
2. Last year's weight problem, no longer haunts me. This year, at least - till now...I'm 5kgs or more lighter. I'm more agile than the fatter, younger me, and i certainly do feel better. Most of it probably due to my 'ohmmm' lessons are finally kicking in (...I think).
3. Coincidentally, just like what i wrote last year - "My longer hair is now shorter and neat. Grown bored and weary of the old style, so I changed it recently to a much cleaner cut. Luv it since." I didnt noticed that I've grown my hair long again and then cut it short yet again, during this time of the year. Something which I should observe, maybe its a pattern.
4. The close relative that was diagnosed with cancer last year- she is no longer around this year. Though I still felt rather sad for her departure, I guess life is ever so fragile...I suppose we just have to appreciate what or who we have around us. For who knows, perhaps next year...things might not be like it used to be anymore.
5. I dont play WoW that much these days. The patch they introduced three weeks back did it to me. Maybe its good that I finally get some life back. I'm still paying for the subscription though, would be nice too if i can get my money back. Maybe I can auction my account at E*bay and make some cash. Or who knows, maybe when the expansion comes out...I might be a walking dead again.
6. "Europe. Yeah." This year I went back again. This time - I went ALONE. Though it's for a slightly shorter span of time, still...when you're alone...its not that easy to endure. But I survived. I guess now, I can survive anything that's gonna be thrown at me. At least, on the 'being alone' part.
7. Yet more friends got married this year. And there are few more lining up for next too. A friend told me recently, he is READY. I asked him 'How can you tell?'. He just replied, 'You can't, you just DO IT'. I guess in more precise words, he is just "ready to do it".
8. Last year, I picked up books. If 5 is the number of books I finished reading last year, this year...its half of that + my monthly subscription of reader's digest.
9. The contact lens I bought is still 375. Though I suspected that it would probably increase a few 15s by now, I have yet gone for any checkups. I'm just afraid that I might lose the 'balance of power'. Would hate to have to buy 2 boxes of different power just because both my eyes decided to gave up on sync-ing with each other.
10. ...and I'm still bloggin, am I not? Though the frequency has deteriorated since...hmmm...WoW came into my life. But I've picked up the pace a lil after I got myself the new phone-it takes really nice pics and I can blog directly from there. I cant help bragging about it to friends and co-workers. Taking pics and showing it off to them and have them drool all over. Saying things like 'Wow, the pic's so clear...' or... 'Wow, thats so nice...look at the quality'...and everyday, it just made me feel better that I've made the right choice I got this nifty new toy.
All in all...this has been a good year. I don't remember exactly how I felt last year, but I think I felt alot better this time around. At least, with 5kgs or more lighter - even the steps are faster; it certainly brings some confidence back in life.
So here's what I have done/achieved/screwed up/etc during this year of the 2006.
1. Last year - it was the 'new' JOB. This year, there is no new job. Though I'm beginning to get bored of my now, not-so-new job. Maybe next year, it would be the no.1 thing again. Then again, for this year...i suppose the most drastic change would be myself. I noticed, I've grown much more matured now.
2. Last year's weight problem, no longer haunts me. This year, at least - till now...I'm 5kgs or more lighter. I'm more agile than the fatter, younger me, and i certainly do feel better. Most of it probably due to my 'ohmmm' lessons are finally kicking in (...I think).
3. Coincidentally, just like what i wrote last year - "My longer hair is now shorter and neat. Grown bored and weary of the old style, so I changed it recently to a much cleaner cut. Luv it since." I didnt noticed that I've grown my hair long again and then cut it short yet again, during this time of the year. Something which I should observe, maybe its a pattern.
4. The close relative that was diagnosed with cancer last year- she is no longer around this year. Though I still felt rather sad for her departure, I guess life is ever so fragile...I suppose we just have to appreciate what or who we have around us. For who knows, perhaps next year...things might not be like it used to be anymore.
5. I dont play WoW that much these days. The patch they introduced three weeks back did it to me. Maybe its good that I finally get some life back. I'm still paying for the subscription though, would be nice too if i can get my money back. Maybe I can auction my account at E*bay and make some cash. Or who knows, maybe when the expansion comes out...I might be a walking dead again.
6. "Europe. Yeah." This year I went back again. This time - I went ALONE. Though it's for a slightly shorter span of time, still...when you're alone...its not that easy to endure. But I survived. I guess now, I can survive anything that's gonna be thrown at me. At least, on the 'being alone' part.
7. Yet more friends got married this year. And there are few more lining up for next too. A friend told me recently, he is READY. I asked him 'How can you tell?'. He just replied, 'You can't, you just DO IT'. I guess in more precise words, he is just "ready to do it".
8. Last year, I picked up books. If 5 is the number of books I finished reading last year, this year...its half of that + my monthly subscription of reader's digest.
9. The contact lens I bought is still 375. Though I suspected that it would probably increase a few 15s by now, I have yet gone for any checkups. I'm just afraid that I might lose the 'balance of power'. Would hate to have to buy 2 boxes of different power just because both my eyes decided to gave up on sync-ing with each other.
10. ...and I'm still bloggin, am I not? Though the frequency has deteriorated since...hmmm...WoW came into my life. But I've picked up the pace a lil after I got myself the new phone-it takes really nice pics and I can blog directly from there. I cant help bragging about it to friends and co-workers. Taking pics and showing it off to them and have them drool all over. Saying things like 'Wow, the pic's so clear...' or... 'Wow, thats so nice...look at the quality'...and everyday, it just made me feel better that I've made the right choice I got this nifty new toy.
All in all...this has been a good year. I don't remember exactly how I felt last year, but I think I felt alot better this time around. At least, with 5kgs or more lighter - even the steps are faster; it certainly brings some confidence back in life.
Monday, December 18, 2006
Not quite the Vienna
The last time I went for a buffet was probably the disasterous Jagoya. And that was a few months back.
Last weekend I was at this place named Vienna- didnt really expect much this round as I have been told that its cheap and the food is just 'not bad'. It turned out-I was, and still am...pretty much 'alrite' by this place. Perhaps its because my expectations are so much lower this round, that is why its easy. Well, at least...its a dozen times better than the crappy and not to mention; expensive Jagoya. I guess...my disappointment with Jagoya is still burning strong till now.
Anyway, this place is not bad...for SGD42 per pax inclusive of tax and the variety that they have...i think its considered pretty good. Though, I suspect that most of their stuff are really just 'for the show'. E.g. ABALONE fried rice, CRAB MEAT Meehoon - these are just fanciful labels. Nevertheless, the taste wasn't that bad. A place ideal for parents or aunties/uncles who like such HIGH-profiled food. For me, its an evening well spent.
Shark Fins' Soup, Grilled Buttered Crayfish.
Chocolate Cake and Fondue - Strawberries and Grape.
Last weekend I was at this place named Vienna- didnt really expect much this round as I have been told that its cheap and the food is just 'not bad'. It turned out-I was, and still am...pretty much 'alrite' by this place. Perhaps its because my expectations are so much lower this round, that is why its easy. Well, at least...its a dozen times better than the crappy and not to mention; expensive Jagoya. I guess...my disappointment with Jagoya is still burning strong till now.
Anyway, this place is not bad...for SGD42 per pax inclusive of tax and the variety that they have...i think its considered pretty good. Though, I suspect that most of their stuff are really just 'for the show'. E.g. ABALONE fried rice, CRAB MEAT Meehoon - these are just fanciful labels. Nevertheless, the taste wasn't that bad. A place ideal for parents or aunties/uncles who like such HIGH-profiled food. For me, its an evening well spent.
Buddha Jumping Over the Wall , Oat Prawn, Inari and Salmon.
Grilled Buttered Prawn, Lobster Salad, Chicken Satay and Garlic Sauce Scallop.
Teppanyaki Chicken - not as good as it looks.
Crab Meat Meehoon, Abalone Fried Rice and Peking Duck Wrap.
Shark Fins' Soup, Grilled Buttered Crayfish.
Chocolate Cake and Fondue - Strawberries and Grape.
Sunday, December 17, 2006
Mobile bloggin'
Took this tree at orchard the other night, sending it thru the phone. Hope it works!
Thursday, December 14, 2006
DSC00001
An SE K-800i. This is the very first pic taken by my colleague with my new 3.2Megapixel. =)
Tuesday, December 12, 2006
Turbulent Times
I have been back from my break for a week now. The past one week was rather...'messy' for me. From shifting out of the stinky old Jurong office to the now, all new, good and well office at OUB Center...and from looking for my diver's watch, up and down for months to no avail and having it found just opposite my new office during my lunch break...AND from a lazy evening stroll down Orchard...to have commited myself to a 15years contract which involves a huge amount of money. My past one week, could have been the best week of my year.
The new office is like seventh-heaven. The cubicles are really spacious, the furnitures are brand new...heck, the whole office was newly renovated...and to the back of me...the view of Singapore river, which overlooks the back of the Merlion. The days in hellish Jurong-the constant drilling, the poo at the stairs, the smell of urine...all that is now gone...for good.
The diver's watch I've been wanting to get; I have been to at least 5 big retails here...even the authorized dealer said they dont have such a model in the market here. I tried to order that off the net, but was rejected by the dealer. The reason being, they dont ship to Singapore! But the dealer is singapore-based! Strange. I had to give it up or have it shipped elsewhere but before I could do that; ironically, I found it just right opposite my new office...in a small watch shop's display window during my lunch break. Just where and when I least expect it to be. And...the price-compared to the one i found on the internet, its cheaper by 20dollars. Life...can be so interesting sometimes.
A fine Saturday evening, I was just walking along Orchard...hunting for a good phone contract when I got approached by a girl in her early 20s. She wanted me to help her do a survey. I took a glimpse at the paper- it was just a small list of questions...probably about 5 or so. Since I've got nothing better to do, I thought its fine to just waste a couple of minutes. I answered all the questions and I get a chance to draw for a scratch card. The card said I won a 30dollars shopping voucher and she was jumping with joy...she showed me a card saying she could get 10dollars as commission since i won that prize. Next question-if i own a credit card. I answered - Yes. So I can have another card. Cool! The next card - Wow! I won a 7nites accomodation to one of the countries listed in a leaflet. FIJI being one of them. I dont remember the rest. She was already jumping with joy. Kept shaking me hand saying thanks and all. She showed me her commission card again, I won the 1st PRIZE - and she can get 150dollars commission for that! Cool! I just made her day a great one...and my own too. A manager nearby came over to congratulate me. In order for me to CLAIM my prize, I gotta head to their office (which is nearby) to sit for a 1.5 hours presentation. No obligation, i was assured. Nice...since i've got the rest of the evening, I decided to PLAY along. Get my prize and walk out.
And...thats what I thought!
I was taken to their office, sat down and asked to show my credit card (there is another chance to WIN something at the counter), if the last 4 digits of my credit card matches the numbers listed on their counter. I won something again! But too bad...i dont think i'm that lucky either. My card doesnt match those numbers. But its fine...I have got a 30dollars voucher and a 7Nites Paid accommodation to any resort in the destination list. I'm still feeling VERY lucky. There is another indian couple with a kid, apparently they have won something too. But i was thinking..."well, they probably just won a microwave or something." B-)
I got a seat, the girl was still jumping with joy...shook my hand again for the 5th or 6th times...and i told her, that she was over reacting. She said Sorry, its 150dollars...its alot to a part-timer like her. She's only 21. So i suppose, it is a big amount. The 'consultant' finally appeared, a 26 years old lady. The small girl excuses herself...and the lady now asked me to switch off my handphone before entering the 'room'. No SILENT, please off it out of respect to the others inside - she insisted. I smelt fish. But fine - its off. I reminded myself that I was just there for the vouchers and the free nites. I can endure 1.5 hours and leave without buying anything.
That 1.5 hours turned out to be 3...or almost 4 hours. Somehow, somewhere in between the conversation...I got interested by what they were offering me. A lifetime (or at least 15 years - as per contract) of vacation to limitless 4-5stars resorts/hotels around the world. The final deal they made me were too good to be true. I paid an amount with my credit card, and the remaining...i will have to pay for the next 4 years by installment every month. And i left with just the 30dollars voucher and NO 7 nites accommodation which i was there for in the first place. Why? Because they used that to minus off 500 from the contract price i signup. Reason: It wasnt a great resort - so we write that off for you, in return u get 500 off your contract. NICE! And I wasnt thinking much at that time...so i did not argue, my mind was full with the nice pictures they have shown me during presentation.
I walked out of that building, still feeling high...the pictures still fresh in my mind. But as I walked further, the pics began to fade...and $$$ sign began to appear...replacing the pics. The amount is not a small time fee. Thats when I started calling some of my friends up. Telling them what I have done *again* on a boring day. The rest of Saturday, Sunday and Monday - I have talked to at least a dozen friends, all giving me very encouraging and constructive feedbacks.
And this evening, I went up to their office to cancel my contract. Excercising my right for the Fair Trading Act set up by the good singaporean government. Any contract that has been signed must have a 3 WORKING DAYS of cooling period before it can take effect. Of course, the cancellation wasnt a breeze...I had to endure some sarcasm from the manager. But at least, the cancellation form was signed...and I was promised to have my credit card transaction reversed in 2-4weeks time. All I can do now, is to just sit back and monitor my statement. Oh...and the 30dollars voucher-I didnt give them back (like they said, i can get that AND the 7nites accommodation wihout any purchase...but i figured the 7nites - thats probably not easy to redeem, Im sure there are * everywhere, so I did not and wouldnt wanna ask). I spent it on something more worthy. I topped about 50dollars for this.
Well, at least...i gained something in the end...and hopefully...the reversal would be as it was promised.
I spinned off a whole mess all by myself, got my emotions stirring like a whirlwind and now I am so glad that everything is calm and cool. I cant help but to ask myself...Now, why the heck did I do all that for?! x(
The new office is like seventh-heaven. The cubicles are really spacious, the furnitures are brand new...heck, the whole office was newly renovated...and to the back of me...the view of Singapore river, which overlooks the back of the Merlion. The days in hellish Jurong-the constant drilling, the poo at the stairs, the smell of urine...all that is now gone...for good.
The diver's watch I've been wanting to get; I have been to at least 5 big retails here...even the authorized dealer said they dont have such a model in the market here. I tried to order that off the net, but was rejected by the dealer. The reason being, they dont ship to Singapore! But the dealer is singapore-based! Strange. I had to give it up or have it shipped elsewhere but before I could do that; ironically, I found it just right opposite my new office...in a small watch shop's display window during my lunch break. Just where and when I least expect it to be. And...the price-compared to the one i found on the internet, its cheaper by 20dollars. Life...can be so interesting sometimes.
A fine Saturday evening, I was just walking along Orchard...hunting for a good phone contract when I got approached by a girl in her early 20s. She wanted me to help her do a survey. I took a glimpse at the paper- it was just a small list of questions...probably about 5 or so. Since I've got nothing better to do, I thought its fine to just waste a couple of minutes. I answered all the questions and I get a chance to draw for a scratch card. The card said I won a 30dollars shopping voucher and she was jumping with joy...she showed me a card saying she could get 10dollars as commission since i won that prize. Next question-if i own a credit card. I answered - Yes. So I can have another card. Cool! The next card - Wow! I won a 7nites accomodation to one of the countries listed in a leaflet. FIJI being one of them. I dont remember the rest. She was already jumping with joy. Kept shaking me hand saying thanks and all. She showed me her commission card again, I won the 1st PRIZE - and she can get 150dollars commission for that! Cool! I just made her day a great one...and my own too. A manager nearby came over to congratulate me. In order for me to CLAIM my prize, I gotta head to their office (which is nearby) to sit for a 1.5 hours presentation. No obligation, i was assured. Nice...since i've got the rest of the evening, I decided to PLAY along. Get my prize and walk out.
And...thats what I thought!
I was taken to their office, sat down and asked to show my credit card (there is another chance to WIN something at the counter), if the last 4 digits of my credit card matches the numbers listed on their counter. I won something again! But too bad...i dont think i'm that lucky either. My card doesnt match those numbers. But its fine...I have got a 30dollars voucher and a 7Nites Paid accommodation to any resort in the destination list. I'm still feeling VERY lucky. There is another indian couple with a kid, apparently they have won something too. But i was thinking..."well, they probably just won a microwave or something." B-)
I got a seat, the girl was still jumping with joy...shook my hand again for the 5th or 6th times...and i told her, that she was over reacting. She said Sorry, its 150dollars...its alot to a part-timer like her. She's only 21. So i suppose, it is a big amount. The 'consultant' finally appeared, a 26 years old lady. The small girl excuses herself...and the lady now asked me to switch off my handphone before entering the 'room'. No SILENT, please off it out of respect to the others inside - she insisted. I smelt fish. But fine - its off. I reminded myself that I was just there for the vouchers and the free nites. I can endure 1.5 hours and leave without buying anything.
That 1.5 hours turned out to be 3...or almost 4 hours. Somehow, somewhere in between the conversation...I got interested by what they were offering me. A lifetime (or at least 15 years - as per contract) of vacation to limitless 4-5stars resorts/hotels around the world. The final deal they made me were too good to be true. I paid an amount with my credit card, and the remaining...i will have to pay for the next 4 years by installment every month. And i left with just the 30dollars voucher and NO 7 nites accommodation which i was there for in the first place. Why? Because they used that to minus off 500 from the contract price i signup. Reason: It wasnt a great resort - so we write that off for you, in return u get 500 off your contract. NICE! And I wasnt thinking much at that time...so i did not argue, my mind was full with the nice pictures they have shown me during presentation.
I walked out of that building, still feeling high...the pictures still fresh in my mind. But as I walked further, the pics began to fade...and $$$ sign began to appear...replacing the pics. The amount is not a small time fee. Thats when I started calling some of my friends up. Telling them what I have done *again* on a boring day. The rest of Saturday, Sunday and Monday - I have talked to at least a dozen friends, all giving me very encouraging and constructive feedbacks.
And this evening, I went up to their office to cancel my contract. Excercising my right for the Fair Trading Act set up by the good singaporean government. Any contract that has been signed must have a 3 WORKING DAYS of cooling period before it can take effect. Of course, the cancellation wasnt a breeze...I had to endure some sarcasm from the manager. But at least, the cancellation form was signed...and I was promised to have my credit card transaction reversed in 2-4weeks time. All I can do now, is to just sit back and monitor my statement. Oh...and the 30dollars voucher-I didnt give them back (like they said, i can get that AND the 7nites accommodation wihout any purchase...but i figured the 7nites - thats probably not easy to redeem, Im sure there are * everywhere, so I did not and wouldnt wanna ask). I spent it on something more worthy. I topped about 50dollars for this.
Well, at least...i gained something in the end...and hopefully...the reversal would be as it was promised.
I spinned off a whole mess all by myself, got my emotions stirring like a whirlwind and now I am so glad that everything is calm and cool. I cant help but to ask myself...Now, why the heck did I do all that for?! x(
Thursday, November 23, 2006
The BREAK
Its been a while since I get any break...any break from work and here, to be precise. After this Friday, I'm off. Like the past few times, I would always wish that this is gonna be a start that never has an end. This break would have gotten here sooner but due to some clashes and stuff...i had to push everything back till now.
Wish i'll have a good one...and an uneventful Friday.
Wish i'll have a good one...and an uneventful Friday.
Friday, November 17, 2006
Patterns
The street lights always changes or would start blinking when I get close.
The tinted glass window which I would pass by every morning, most people would turn their heads to look at themselves in the reflection, trying to adjust their shirt or tidy up their hair. Sometimes...i cant help to look as well.
Chunky peanut butter and bread. Bread with Peanut butter Jelly. White Bread. Wheatgerm. Bran. It's the same every morning. Still enjoying every bit of it though.
Support. Work. The UAT has ended last week. This week there's this new PAT. Another cycle. Another round of testing. Like a snake biting its own tail.
WoW. Getting bored again. Expansion out next Jan. Hopefully there would be something new to do. I've been getting on and off this thing. Alot.
The tinted glass window which I would pass by every morning, most people would turn their heads to look at themselves in the reflection, trying to adjust their shirt or tidy up their hair. Sometimes...i cant help to look as well.
Chunky peanut butter and bread. Bread with Peanut butter Jelly. White Bread. Wheatgerm. Bran. It's the same every morning. Still enjoying every bit of it though.
Support. Work. The UAT has ended last week. This week there's this new PAT. Another cycle. Another round of testing. Like a snake biting its own tail.
WoW. Getting bored again. Expansion out next Jan. Hopefully there would be something new to do. I've been getting on and off this thing. Alot.
Wednesday, October 25, 2006
woot!
After almost 6 long months of grinding, my druid reaches the ultimate level of 60 last Saturday. It is now the end of my 'training' and the beginning of my raid and high level instance adventure. Sighs, I just wish I have more time on hand. With the expansion coming out end of November, my druid is now ready for the next level of new high, or should I say...it is me, who would be looking forward to this =)
Wednesday, October 11, 2006
It's finally over me
Though the haze has come and set itself in, my mood that has been shifting like the desert sands is finally over. As of today, or perhaps some days now...i finally realize that i'm no longer feeling as edgy, frustrated, confused as the days/weeks before. It's something which I'm feeling good about. My flu seems to be clearing as well. And its about time!
Perhaps its this song that I heard over the internet radio today. It's sorta like...what Daniel Powter's Bad Day did to me last year. This song... Five For Fighting - The Riddle (You & I). Been playing on my winamp the whole of today and on my ipod on my short walk back to my apartment. And now too, again on my winamp as i type these words before bed.
Was browsing thru my image archive earlier...and found this colorful pic which I've took sometime ago by the Accademia Bridge.
Perhaps its this song that I heard over the internet radio today. It's sorta like...what Daniel Powter's Bad Day did to me last year. This song... Five For Fighting - The Riddle (You & I). Been playing on my winamp the whole of today and on my ipod on my short walk back to my apartment. And now too, again on my winamp as i type these words before bed.
Was browsing thru my image archive earlier...and found this colorful pic which I've took sometime ago by the Accademia Bridge.
Tuesday, September 19, 2006
A day just like any other...
Today, like any other days...I was up late. The alarm went off at 6:57am. I got up at 7:40. My housemate is already up...taking his morning shower, goin thru his usual morning routines. I waited till 7:50 before I get my chance to use the toilet. Then I was rushing to get changed, packed my laptop from last nite's WoW session, rushing out the door together with my new friend. On the way to the MRT station, we did some small talk. I still have not get used to him just yet. I have only shifted into the apartment 3 weeks ago and just like my past experience...I hardly see my housemates though we are staying under the same roof. I'm gonna need more time. I told him some stuff about what I do and we were asking each other about the weekends we just had. It is good for now.
When we walked up to the MRT, the station was already quite packed with people. The usual morning crowd. Working class - everyone a 'slave' in our very own way. The train arrived in less than a minute...and we too squeezed ourselves in like the others. I trailed my housemate to the midsection of the train, though I'm getting off at the next stop...it would somehow seem rude, or unfriendly if i stood by the door and leave him to himself. I don't remember what we were talking about at that time...i'd be getting off in 2-3mins...i just needed something short, something insignificant but yet would seem as if I'm still eager to press on with our little chat. Anyway, I think I did quite well. Or perhaps he's just being polite. Just right before I was about to get down at the station, a girl in her mid/late twenties...sitting in front of where I stood...took out a piece of paper, scribbled something on it...blushing...and passed it to me. "Hey, you forgot to zip ;-)". I glimpsed thru the note, replied her with just a cold, "Oh ok, thanks"...said a quick goodbye to my housemate...and walked off the train as if nothing happen. My housemate was still wondering why this girl would passed a note to me and what was written on the note. But it's too late...i'm already on the way out of the car. On the way down the escalator, I managed to quicky zipped my pants. Smiling to myself. It is just a day...like any other day.
When we walked up to the MRT, the station was already quite packed with people. The usual morning crowd. Working class - everyone a 'slave' in our very own way. The train arrived in less than a minute...and we too squeezed ourselves in like the others. I trailed my housemate to the midsection of the train, though I'm getting off at the next stop...it would somehow seem rude, or unfriendly if i stood by the door and leave him to himself. I don't remember what we were talking about at that time...i'd be getting off in 2-3mins...i just needed something short, something insignificant but yet would seem as if I'm still eager to press on with our little chat. Anyway, I think I did quite well. Or perhaps he's just being polite. Just right before I was about to get down at the station, a girl in her mid/late twenties...sitting in front of where I stood...took out a piece of paper, scribbled something on it...blushing...and passed it to me. "Hey, you forgot to zip ;-)". I glimpsed thru the note, replied her with just a cold, "Oh ok, thanks"...said a quick goodbye to my housemate...and walked off the train as if nothing happen. My housemate was still wondering why this girl would passed a note to me and what was written on the note. But it's too late...i'm already on the way out of the car. On the way down the escalator, I managed to quicky zipped my pants. Smiling to myself. It is just a day...like any other day.
Wednesday, September 06, 2006
Life can be THAT simple...if only...
Today, there was a company dinner after work. We can all leave early due to that. It's the first time after so long that we finally get to leave the work place before the sky turns grey. On the way down the staircase, I saw that the moon is already up high in the sky...though the clouds are still hanging loosely up above...and a small breeze has risen when i got to the ground floor...I suppose its a good evening, as compared to the many horrible ones that I've faced since the past two weeks.
My mood has been shifting very drastically lately. And what annoys me most is...I dont even know what's the thing(s) that's been causing such a stir in me. This thing...has planted its roots deep inside me. Maybe it's work, maybe it's the new place, or perhaps...it's just everything else. Though I'm still struggling to gain control...I guess I've been making some good progress starting this week. I've always thought that I've been doin a pretty good job controlling my emotions and all. This time, I guess I've finally lost it. And for a duration of more than a week...it's the worst ever. Perhaps age is catching up on me...
This evening...after a fanciful dinner at some brazillian restaurant by the beach...I took the cab home, alone. On the way, while my cab was stalling at a traffic light...I saw a cat climbing on top of the dashboard of its owner's van, which was just few metres away from my cab. They too were waiting for the lights. It was toying with the handphone's headset...while the owner watches and brushes its back...smiling and talking. It was then that my imagination has drifted away from the scene...The van has some trade names on it...like a business van, small time one too. I suppose the driver, a male in his mid 30s...is just a small business owner...having a cat as a company, driving home probably from after his long business hours. Stealing some time off, playing with his cat at the traffic lights. At that very moment, I just thought to myself...that Life can be just so simple and without worries.
And as my cab glides forward after the lights turned. I saw that he has someone right beside him, on the passenger seat...sharing his laughter...cuddling the cat while he drives on. Life can't get much simpler than that scene...and my very thoughts at that moment. I guess I'm feeling much better already...maybe by the end of this week, I'd be fully recovered.
Tuesday, August 22, 2006
Routine.
I haven't been writing for quite a while now. People have been asking questions. I tried to keep this up...whenever i could; i enjoy writing anyway...but then sometimes i just dont get the mood or inspiration...so instead of posting trash...trying to think hard of what write...or just trying to write for the sake of posting something...i chose not to.
Tonight is one of those nites which i do get some 'mood'. Enough to have me fire up the browser at 1am in the morning, logged on to this site and start writing some stuff. I guess I've been feeling rather edgy again lately, working at this project site wears me out so quickly...more than anything else that i've experienced before. Previously, i would try to at least do something radical once in a while when i get weary. Now, I cant seem to keep up anymore...Everyday's a routine...I wake up; most of the time, late...running to catch the shuttle to work...At work, it's either i'm occupied or i'm just staring blank at the screen for hours, then it's time to catch the 7pm ride back home. Then there's dinner, shower, WoW, bed. 5 days a week, except for the even days when I do some small breaks. Then again, those are really small ones. So it doesnt really help much.
Weekends would usually be a breeze...spending hours on WoW. My druid is a level 50 now. Hopefully I'll get to 60 in a week or two. It's a drag...but I think I'll make it. I guess thats probably why I don't have time to write much nowadays. Most of my idle moments would be spent on my virtual character.
I'm now looking forward for this sunday's trip to the waterfall. My friends have been so kind to arrange this, probably because I've been complaining too much about having a short weekend break. Someone told me that life is wonderful to have friends that would listen. But I guess I'm lucky that I have those who are not just listening, but also taking actions too. I really do appreciate that.
Next week, I would have a huge task to accomplish. I need to find a new squatter hole, hopefully I'll get something good...
Tonight is one of those nites which i do get some 'mood'. Enough to have me fire up the browser at 1am in the morning, logged on to this site and start writing some stuff. I guess I've been feeling rather edgy again lately, working at this project site wears me out so quickly...more than anything else that i've experienced before. Previously, i would try to at least do something radical once in a while when i get weary. Now, I cant seem to keep up anymore...Everyday's a routine...I wake up; most of the time, late...running to catch the shuttle to work...At work, it's either i'm occupied or i'm just staring blank at the screen for hours, then it's time to catch the 7pm ride back home. Then there's dinner, shower, WoW, bed. 5 days a week, except for the even days when I do some small breaks. Then again, those are really small ones. So it doesnt really help much.
Weekends would usually be a breeze...spending hours on WoW. My druid is a level 50 now. Hopefully I'll get to 60 in a week or two. It's a drag...but I think I'll make it. I guess thats probably why I don't have time to write much nowadays. Most of my idle moments would be spent on my virtual character.
I'm now looking forward for this sunday's trip to the waterfall. My friends have been so kind to arrange this, probably because I've been complaining too much about having a short weekend break. Someone told me that life is wonderful to have friends that would listen. But I guess I'm lucky that I have those who are not just listening, but also taking actions too. I really do appreciate that.
Next week, I would have a huge task to accomplish. I need to find a new squatter hole, hopefully I'll get something good...
Wednesday, July 26, 2006
Welcome to the Jungle
The client's office where I'm at is a unique one. Never have I seen such a working place before.
My first few days here, I realized something was not quite right with the people here. They are not those regular professionals that you see or meet in your everyday life. They are pretty laid back, more relaxed, and like to communicate in their own unique ways. They like to hold chats by/in the toilet, talking about sambal belacan and how to prepare them best. I thought it was good-in a way, that these people can really click that well. Sometimes I can hear the aunties screaming the names of their co-workers, giggling out loud. I would usually just pump up the volume on my winamp, and press on.
The people here just held a durian session, the whole place would probably smell like this for the next few days. One of my colleague tried to persuade the Manager here that it would be best if they do it elsewhere, but I guess he was one of those who encouraged the session. My colleague was told just to bear with it...and was given a real piece of advise - One man's meat is another man's poison. If I'm 45, a lady and single...I would marry him.
Occasionally the only toilet bowl here would be filled with yellow 'water' (espcecially in the morning), sometimes the fumes would have invaded the air...and just now...there's an extra piece of tissue paper laying in the bowl too. This is indeed, like what someone said...a jungle. I just hope I dont turn into a baboon soon.
My first few days here, I realized something was not quite right with the people here. They are not those regular professionals that you see or meet in your everyday life. They are pretty laid back, more relaxed, and like to communicate in their own unique ways. They like to hold chats by/in the toilet, talking about sambal belacan and how to prepare them best. I thought it was good-in a way, that these people can really click that well. Sometimes I can hear the aunties screaming the names of their co-workers, giggling out loud. I would usually just pump up the volume on my winamp, and press on.
The people here just held a durian session, the whole place would probably smell like this for the next few days. One of my colleague tried to persuade the Manager here that it would be best if they do it elsewhere, but I guess he was one of those who encouraged the session. My colleague was told just to bear with it...and was given a real piece of advise - One man's meat is another man's poison. If I'm 45, a lady and single...I would marry him.
Occasionally the only toilet bowl here would be filled with yellow 'water' (espcecially in the morning), sometimes the fumes would have invaded the air...and just now...there's an extra piece of tissue paper laying in the bowl too. This is indeed, like what someone said...a jungle. I just hope I dont turn into a baboon soon.
Wednesday, July 19, 2006
A new, old place
As of today, my working days would begin here in Jurong, at 9 every morning and ends at 7 every evening. Today's my first day at this place, an old section of the town where one of the client's branch is situated. Mainly surrounded by abandoned HDB flats, this place looks old and shabby. When I got here this morning, it gave me a sort of feeling...something nostalgic...like looking at some collection of my mom's photos...like i'm back in those days of the 70s. If only my vision could be adjusted to those sepia-like effects on digital cameras, then it would probably be a much better picture.
There is a NTUC here. Just by the corner of the opposite block. It kinda looks like those 'upgraded' grocery store rather than looking like any regular NTUC branches that I've been to. Somehow, this place gave me a sort of feeling which i find it hard to put into words...its not something bad...its just something different...as if I'm no longer in the crowded singapore city. I guess, the days that would come...I might learn to enjoy this place after all. But as of now, I'm just reminiscing.
There is a NTUC here. Just by the corner of the opposite block. It kinda looks like those 'upgraded' grocery store rather than looking like any regular NTUC branches that I've been to. Somehow, this place gave me a sort of feeling which i find it hard to put into words...its not something bad...its just something different...as if I'm no longer in the crowded singapore city. I guess, the days that would come...I might learn to enjoy this place after all. But as of now, I'm just reminiscing.
Tuesday, July 11, 2006
A life awaits...
Been very occupied with work lately. Not quite in the mood to write. Probably its because I dont have much time being 'alone' and to get into my writing mood. Probably also due to the fact that I've been spending my remaining time (not much left after deducting my inconsistent working hours) trying to level up my character on WoW. I'm beginning to feel my life sipping out of me. Despite work, I would still spend some hours at night or waking up early in the morning just to catch up on my character on the virtual realm. This is not gonna be good for me if it persists. One thing that exist just solely because I needed something to get hooked on when I was away and bored, now...it exists just to haunt me with sleepless nights. I guess it has achieved its objective - I'm officially hooked.
Tuesday, July 04, 2006
Where do homely heart goes?
Been back to asian soil for a week plus now. The crowd, the cars, the people, the street lights, ...everything seems so...warm and close. It's home. The heart knows. Perhaps i'm still homesick after a long (lonely) trip away, give me two months and i'd probably get bored again. Anyway, i'm still feeling good as of now. Though I got sick for a few days right after I got home, but I guess I'm lucky. At least, I should be glad I did not fall sick when I was far far away from home. I can picture that in my head now, it's an ugly one.
Now that I think I'm feeling so much better, I'm beginning to eat and drink to my likings (again). The fact that I had shed 2 kilos unintentionally when i was away, perhaps did contribute to my new high on appetitte after all. Lets just hope I dont gain back those lost kilos and more. Hmmm...on second thought, I dont think I could be bothered either. I need more food.
I was back to KL again last week, after just spending 3 days in Singapore. All these to and fro, in and out are beginning to wear me out. I guess my eyelids would probably drooped down a few inches soon if this continues. For good food (and the gathering too), it's a risk worth taking.
Was out with for a lunch gathering with some friends, this time we went all the way to some secluded kampung area for chinese seafood. Pretty cheap, fast service and it's good. At least, I think it's better than the last round's Japanese buffet.
I dont remember exactly what we had, but there was by my request-the yam ring, then the prawns, pork knuckle, fried vegetables, fried beancurd. One coconut for each of us. Seven in total. 30RM per person, this is one good deal I'd say.
Now that I think I'm feeling so much better, I'm beginning to eat and drink to my likings (again). The fact that I had shed 2 kilos unintentionally when i was away, perhaps did contribute to my new high on appetitte after all. Lets just hope I dont gain back those lost kilos and more. Hmmm...on second thought, I dont think I could be bothered either. I need more food.
I was back to KL again last week, after just spending 3 days in Singapore. All these to and fro, in and out are beginning to wear me out. I guess my eyelids would probably drooped down a few inches soon if this continues. For good food (and the gathering too), it's a risk worth taking.
Was out with for a lunch gathering with some friends, this time we went all the way to some secluded kampung area for chinese seafood. Pretty cheap, fast service and it's good. At least, I think it's better than the last round's Japanese buffet.
I dont remember exactly what we had, but there was by my request-the yam ring, then the prawns, pork knuckle, fried vegetables, fried beancurd. One coconut for each of us. Seven in total. 30RM per person, this is one good deal I'd say.
Thursday, June 22, 2006
Fifa Fever
Its almost a week now. Time flies when you're occupied.
I havent been able to write after I got back from the trip last Sunday.
Partially it was due to the fact that I was so tied down with work, I gotta complete something by this week so that the people here wont have an excuse to hold me back any longer.
The trip last weekend was really an experience. A new sensation that I've never felt before. A high one too.
I booked the taxi from my hotel in Mestre to the airport the night before, told them I wished to leave at 6:30am. I woke up late. Rushing out of my door, I made the taxi driver waited for 15mins. I was lucky he wasnt any typical Italian. And that itself, was already an exciting morning for me. An early dose of adreneline to kick start my day. Having to rush out the door and packed whatever's not packed from the night before. I remembered I was smiling in the cab after that.
Getting on the plane from Venice's Marco Polo airport at 8:55am, flying north-west bound for 1 hour and 10mins, I reached Cologne's Bonn International Airport right at about slightly past 10 in the morning. The weather was rather hot. The airport was crowded with tourists. There were counters everywhere with signs about the upcoming football match - the match I was gonna watch on that day. I managed to get the Fly and Rail with the air ticket I bought with an additional 19Euro per day. With this ticket, I get unlimited rides on trains to any destination in Germany. Save me alot of effort of having to queue up for tickets and worrying about how much to pay etc. Ease of mind. Something I dont mind spending when I travel.
Once out of the arrival hall, I followed the signs to the train tracks just two levels below. The train arrived at the platform in less than 3 mins. I boarded. It took me to the central station in less than 15mins. Pretty efficient. I like this place already. People speaks english, streets are clean, trains are good. I tried not to compare with what I get in Venice. But I just can't help it.
Once I got out of the train station, I flagged a cab, showed them an address and they took me to the place where I'm gonna collect my ticket to the world event. The place was a makeshift office, an apartment located at some narrow streets with no signboard except for a small doorbell with the company label. I bumped into a father-son czech. They were there to collect their tickets too.
Another cab ride after that took me to my hotel. Where I had just booked from the internet without really looking much at the details. The price was reasonable enough and location was (i think) good. So I just placed the booking. It turns out, the hotel was a surprised. It was all good. And better. Another surprise for my already good day. This is indeed A DAY. The building is not big, but its really classy and the room, is just...perfect. After I'm done checking in, and since the game was at 6pm...I still have 4 hours to go, before I need to head to the stadium.
I went out, and with the map the hotel provided me...I headed to the nearby subway station...which is only 3 mins walk. I took the train from the opposite side :P I should be heading to the central station again, which is only 2-3 stops from my hotel. But instead I went 5 stops to realize I was on the opposite track. Well, its an adventure anyway...so I got off, head across the street and waited another 15mins for the next train and back tracked about 8 stations to get to the central station.
Central station was full with people, with banners, flags, signs etc. Football fanatics. With bright costumes, heavy makeups. I can already feel the party mood here, and this is not even the stadium yet! The Catheredal was just outside the station, alot of people has been gathering at this huge open area and by the stairs to the cathederal. I went around shooting pictures, posing with all the interesting people i saw. It's a bright sunny day, the weather's perfect. I guess it's just a perfect day after all. Or was it just my mood? :P
I met an Indonesian there while taking pictures, she was there alone. So we decided to help each other with the picture. She has been in Cologne for 5months now and she speaks german. She is on one of those cultural exchange program. She was really surprised that i'm a Malaysian and even more, when she found out I was in Jakarta for 2 years...AND I SPEAK indonesian :P Though, my indonesian has deteriorated after I left Jakarta but i guess I havent lost all of it yet. From that moment onwards, I was blurting out words in Indonesian for my 2 days in Germany. Hmm...somehow its kinda ironic...i dont think i've spoken that much of indonesian in a day even back in Jakarta.
My newfound friend was not goin for the match. But she followed (or rather I followed her) to the stadium. When we got there, the crowd and the mood has gone up a few notches as compared to those at the station. Though most of them from the station did made their way to the stadium with us. The train was packed. Mostly czech supporters on my car. Singing along as we go. It was a fun thing. Everyone's smiling, cheering. The faces were so much different compared to the faces ... after the game. I guess they never saw that coming. Neither did I.
We took some more pics at the entrance. More people goin around with signs "I Need Tickets". Too bad. I'm hugging onto mine very tightly. Afraid that I might lost it. Before we parted ways, we exchanged emails and phone number. My Indonesian friend is a friendly one. She has nothing on the weekend, so she said if im up for it...she could bring me around on Sunday before I leave Germany. I told her I'd get back to her in the evening after the game. Then there's the goodbye and I queued up for the ticket inspection.
Inside the stadium, it was a completely different world. This is really a PARTY. And only privelleged ones are allowed to enter. The very few that has the ticket compared to the crowd outside. I met a Czech guy at the entrance, he said he was there with friends. He is very lucky he managed to get the ticket just earlier. I asked him, how much...he said "300 Euro! But I'm so lucky! There are alot of people still waiting out there...they cant even find a ticket!" And in my mind, I was saying to myself "Wow, and i bought mine at 190Euro...same category as yours...if i were to throw it out at 400 or 500. My trip here would be an all PAID one." Hmmm...but nah...that wasnt what I wanted anyway. I'd rather keep the ticket and enjoy the experience :P.
The game was a great one. I wont elaborate much. I can't even put into words what I felt during the game. It was a really grand experience. One that I would remember and cherish forever. The excitement, the passion, the crowd, the cheering, the mood...everything...was then one. And I felt it all at the same time.
After the Czechs lost to Ghana by 2-0, before I realize it...the whole stadium was left with the majority of Ghana supporters. Where has all the Czechs gone to?
I stayed till it was 9pm then headed back to my hotel. Hungry. Tired. On the way I sms my indonesian friend for the next day's plan. We are gonna meet at noon at the cathederal.
That nite after I have showered. I went out to look for food. It was already almost 10:00. The streets are still crowded with people at the sidewalks and sitting at cafe watching big screen tv's that was showing the match between Italy and USA. I made my way to a local brewery, suggested by the hotel staff. ordered a pork knuckle and beer. It was a sumptious meal. The very taste of Germany. It's a fine day indeed.
The next morning, there was breakfast in the hotel. Then I just went out to a nearby store to get a calling card and call home. By 1130, I had checkout from the hotel and headed to the Cathederal where I'm suppose to wait for my new friend. When I got there, she was already waiting at the stairs. She said she needed to visit the cybercafe to upload some pics she took from yesterday. So she brought me an older part of the town, where the charges for the internet cafe is just 75cents / 30mins. Cheap! Compared to the one I have in my hotel in Venice. Well, thats an entirely different story...perhaps another time.
After we're done with the cafe, she brought me back to the town centre where there was Rein and Boon. One was the bridge, one the river. Erm...I think. Anyway, there was this big bridge that spans across a river. It was quite a pleasant sight. Not bad for sight seeing. Then we went to some shopping district. Too bad its a Sunday, so most shops...like any other place here in Europe, do not operate on Sundays. So its all look and no buy. Good thing. Cause I've spent a bomb on this trip already. Gotta save up some.
At 4pm, it was time for me to head to the airport. We took our last pic together. Said our goodbyes. I hopped on the train, waited a while and it sped off to the airport. My flight back to Venice leaves at 6. But apparently it got delayed. And I got home...although rather tired...but still managed to spend an hour on WoW before I call it a day...or rather...a great weekend.
* I cant seem to post any pictures here...no idea why...everytime i upload, once done...nothing happen...i got tired of trying...i'm leaving for home in 5 hours...so maybe next time ;)
*Decided to upload to imagestation instead. Since I've got plenty and it's difficult to post everything here. So here goes...view album
I havent been able to write after I got back from the trip last Sunday.
Partially it was due to the fact that I was so tied down with work, I gotta complete something by this week so that the people here wont have an excuse to hold me back any longer.
The trip last weekend was really an experience. A new sensation that I've never felt before. A high one too.
I booked the taxi from my hotel in Mestre to the airport the night before, told them I wished to leave at 6:30am. I woke up late. Rushing out of my door, I made the taxi driver waited for 15mins. I was lucky he wasnt any typical Italian. And that itself, was already an exciting morning for me. An early dose of adreneline to kick start my day. Having to rush out the door and packed whatever's not packed from the night before. I remembered I was smiling in the cab after that.
Getting on the plane from Venice's Marco Polo airport at 8:55am, flying north-west bound for 1 hour and 10mins, I reached Cologne's Bonn International Airport right at about slightly past 10 in the morning. The weather was rather hot. The airport was crowded with tourists. There were counters everywhere with signs about the upcoming football match - the match I was gonna watch on that day. I managed to get the Fly and Rail with the air ticket I bought with an additional 19Euro per day. With this ticket, I get unlimited rides on trains to any destination in Germany. Save me alot of effort of having to queue up for tickets and worrying about how much to pay etc. Ease of mind. Something I dont mind spending when I travel.
Once out of the arrival hall, I followed the signs to the train tracks just two levels below. The train arrived at the platform in less than 3 mins. I boarded. It took me to the central station in less than 15mins. Pretty efficient. I like this place already. People speaks english, streets are clean, trains are good. I tried not to compare with what I get in Venice. But I just can't help it.
Once I got out of the train station, I flagged a cab, showed them an address and they took me to the place where I'm gonna collect my ticket to the world event. The place was a makeshift office, an apartment located at some narrow streets with no signboard except for a small doorbell with the company label. I bumped into a father-son czech. They were there to collect their tickets too.
Another cab ride after that took me to my hotel. Where I had just booked from the internet without really looking much at the details. The price was reasonable enough and location was (i think) good. So I just placed the booking. It turns out, the hotel was a surprised. It was all good. And better. Another surprise for my already good day. This is indeed A DAY. The building is not big, but its really classy and the room, is just...perfect. After I'm done checking in, and since the game was at 6pm...I still have 4 hours to go, before I need to head to the stadium.
I went out, and with the map the hotel provided me...I headed to the nearby subway station...which is only 3 mins walk. I took the train from the opposite side :P I should be heading to the central station again, which is only 2-3 stops from my hotel. But instead I went 5 stops to realize I was on the opposite track. Well, its an adventure anyway...so I got off, head across the street and waited another 15mins for the next train and back tracked about 8 stations to get to the central station.
Central station was full with people, with banners, flags, signs etc. Football fanatics. With bright costumes, heavy makeups. I can already feel the party mood here, and this is not even the stadium yet! The Catheredal was just outside the station, alot of people has been gathering at this huge open area and by the stairs to the cathederal. I went around shooting pictures, posing with all the interesting people i saw. It's a bright sunny day, the weather's perfect. I guess it's just a perfect day after all. Or was it just my mood? :P
I met an Indonesian there while taking pictures, she was there alone. So we decided to help each other with the picture. She has been in Cologne for 5months now and she speaks german. She is on one of those cultural exchange program. She was really surprised that i'm a Malaysian and even more, when she found out I was in Jakarta for 2 years...AND I SPEAK indonesian :P Though, my indonesian has deteriorated after I left Jakarta but i guess I havent lost all of it yet. From that moment onwards, I was blurting out words in Indonesian for my 2 days in Germany. Hmm...somehow its kinda ironic...i dont think i've spoken that much of indonesian in a day even back in Jakarta.
My newfound friend was not goin for the match. But she followed (or rather I followed her) to the stadium. When we got there, the crowd and the mood has gone up a few notches as compared to those at the station. Though most of them from the station did made their way to the stadium with us. The train was packed. Mostly czech supporters on my car. Singing along as we go. It was a fun thing. Everyone's smiling, cheering. The faces were so much different compared to the faces ... after the game. I guess they never saw that coming. Neither did I.
We took some more pics at the entrance. More people goin around with signs "I Need Tickets". Too bad. I'm hugging onto mine very tightly. Afraid that I might lost it. Before we parted ways, we exchanged emails and phone number. My Indonesian friend is a friendly one. She has nothing on the weekend, so she said if im up for it...she could bring me around on Sunday before I leave Germany. I told her I'd get back to her in the evening after the game. Then there's the goodbye and I queued up for the ticket inspection.
Inside the stadium, it was a completely different world. This is really a PARTY. And only privelleged ones are allowed to enter. The very few that has the ticket compared to the crowd outside. I met a Czech guy at the entrance, he said he was there with friends. He is very lucky he managed to get the ticket just earlier. I asked him, how much...he said "300 Euro! But I'm so lucky! There are alot of people still waiting out there...they cant even find a ticket!" And in my mind, I was saying to myself "Wow, and i bought mine at 190Euro...same category as yours...if i were to throw it out at 400 or 500. My trip here would be an all PAID one." Hmmm...but nah...that wasnt what I wanted anyway. I'd rather keep the ticket and enjoy the experience :P.
The game was a great one. I wont elaborate much. I can't even put into words what I felt during the game. It was a really grand experience. One that I would remember and cherish forever. The excitement, the passion, the crowd, the cheering, the mood...everything...was then one. And I felt it all at the same time.
After the Czechs lost to Ghana by 2-0, before I realize it...the whole stadium was left with the majority of Ghana supporters. Where has all the Czechs gone to?
I stayed till it was 9pm then headed back to my hotel. Hungry. Tired. On the way I sms my indonesian friend for the next day's plan. We are gonna meet at noon at the cathederal.
That nite after I have showered. I went out to look for food. It was already almost 10:00. The streets are still crowded with people at the sidewalks and sitting at cafe watching big screen tv's that was showing the match between Italy and USA. I made my way to a local brewery, suggested by the hotel staff. ordered a pork knuckle and beer. It was a sumptious meal. The very taste of Germany. It's a fine day indeed.
The next morning, there was breakfast in the hotel. Then I just went out to a nearby store to get a calling card and call home. By 1130, I had checkout from the hotel and headed to the Cathederal where I'm suppose to wait for my new friend. When I got there, she was already waiting at the stairs. She said she needed to visit the cybercafe to upload some pics she took from yesterday. So she brought me an older part of the town, where the charges for the internet cafe is just 75cents / 30mins. Cheap! Compared to the one I have in my hotel in Venice. Well, thats an entirely different story...perhaps another time.
After we're done with the cafe, she brought me back to the town centre where there was Rein and Boon. One was the bridge, one the river. Erm...I think. Anyway, there was this big bridge that spans across a river. It was quite a pleasant sight. Not bad for sight seeing. Then we went to some shopping district. Too bad its a Sunday, so most shops...like any other place here in Europe, do not operate on Sundays. So its all look and no buy. Good thing. Cause I've spent a bomb on this trip already. Gotta save up some.
At 4pm, it was time for me to head to the airport. We took our last pic together. Said our goodbyes. I hopped on the train, waited a while and it sped off to the airport. My flight back to Venice leaves at 6. But apparently it got delayed. And I got home...although rather tired...but still managed to spend an hour on WoW before I call it a day...or rather...a great weekend.
* I cant seem to post any pictures here...no idea why...everytime i upload, once done...nothing happen...i got tired of trying...i'm leaving for home in 5 hours...so maybe next time ;)
*Decided to upload to imagestation instead. Since I've got plenty and it's difficult to post everything here. So here goes...view album
Tuesday, June 13, 2006
My New Ride
Its 'officially' summer now. The sun's been shining since the past few days. The strong cold wind, occasional rain and gloomy weather are all history for now.
When I was younger I have had this wish. A wish that I could someday be like those people on TV that rides their bicycle to work. Today my wish is a reality. I ride a bicycle to work. On a warm summer's day...it's a good day today.
I managed to get the bike from the hotel. It so happens that a Polish colleague who's staying at my hotel rented a bike from them and told me last week that they actually do provide bicycles for rental. Though I've been trying to look around town my last trip here but at the end, I got too lazy to continue. I didn't know that I don't even have to LOOK far. It's just right under my nose. I guess this is all part of life.
With the bicycle lane which covers almost 80% of the route from my hotel to work. Riding is a breeze. Especially in the summer mornings when most of the people will be out with the bike, either to work or otherwise. On the downside, I'm still gonna have to be extra careful when I cross the road or watch where I'm going. I dare not hook my ipod to my ears...at least...not until I'm comfortable. The drivers here are mainly hellish hounds and not to mention that I haven't been riding a bike for years. AND an extra tip that my Polish colleague gave me last week...there was one incident long time ago...a foreign employee that came to this office for a short working trip...rented a bike...and got killed in an accident. Hmmm...I hope I can make it back home.
When I was younger I have had this wish. A wish that I could someday be like those people on TV that rides their bicycle to work. Today my wish is a reality. I ride a bicycle to work. On a warm summer's day...it's a good day today.
I managed to get the bike from the hotel. It so happens that a Polish colleague who's staying at my hotel rented a bike from them and told me last week that they actually do provide bicycles for rental. Though I've been trying to look around town my last trip here but at the end, I got too lazy to continue. I didn't know that I don't even have to LOOK far. It's just right under my nose. I guess this is all part of life.
With the bicycle lane which covers almost 80% of the route from my hotel to work. Riding is a breeze. Especially in the summer mornings when most of the people will be out with the bike, either to work or otherwise. On the downside, I'm still gonna have to be extra careful when I cross the road or watch where I'm going. I dare not hook my ipod to my ears...at least...not until I'm comfortable. The drivers here are mainly hellish hounds and not to mention that I haven't been riding a bike for years. AND an extra tip that my Polish colleague gave me last week...there was one incident long time ago...a foreign employee that came to this office for a short working trip...rented a bike...and got killed in an accident. Hmmm...I hope I can make it back home.
Friday, June 09, 2006
The Monster in Me
Sometimes...I'm afraid of myself.
When I get bored, I do alot of crazy shit.
I was feeling rather edgy since the past 2 days.
Though I might not think of it as something big.
Usually I get over such feeling very fast.
But most of the time, with a price.
This time...the price is pretty big.
After I have done such damage to myself...I think back and got scared.
As if I just looked into a mirror and found that I'm staring right into the eyes of a monster.
In just merely 30mins. I have shifted drastically from the state of just surfing leisurely on the internet...to spending almost 500Euros. I have just purchased a returned flight ticket, booked a hotel room and got myself a ticket to watch the World Cup 2006 (Czech vs Ghana) match in Cologne, Germany next weekend.
...And I dont even consider myself as a big fan of football.
I just hope the experience would be worthwhile.
... the things I do out of boredom.
When I get bored, I do alot of crazy shit.
I was feeling rather edgy since the past 2 days.
Though I might not think of it as something big.
Usually I get over such feeling very fast.
But most of the time, with a price.
This time...the price is pretty big.
After I have done such damage to myself...I think back and got scared.
As if I just looked into a mirror and found that I'm staring right into the eyes of a monster.
In just merely 30mins. I have shifted drastically from the state of just surfing leisurely on the internet...to spending almost 500Euros. I have just purchased a returned flight ticket, booked a hotel room and got myself a ticket to watch the World Cup 2006 (Czech vs Ghana) match in Cologne, Germany next weekend.
...And I dont even consider myself as a big fan of football.
I just hope the experience would be worthwhile.
... the things I do out of boredom.
Thursday, June 08, 2006
The 'Yay' too soon...
I guess I shouldnt get too excited when it comes to things like this. More or less I would have anticipated that something such as this, will happen. If it doesn't, its a bliss. But blissfulness cant be hoped or wished for...it should come naturally, when you least expect it. Thats why its a bliss.
Anyway...I guess all I have to do now is to endure another two more weeks here. Sighs.
Anyway...I guess all I have to do now is to endure another two more weeks here. Sighs.
Monday, June 05, 2006
Hopping the isles
It was a long weekend here in Italy. Friday was the republic holiday. I almost had to work that day, but thanks to my luck...i guess, in the end...they gave up and said I could have the day off as they did.
Friday, I was just lazying in my apartment. Busy with World of Warcraft (WoW) again. I managed to get to level 20 now. Plenty of new, cool spells i could use. My druid gets to morph into a Cat now. Awesome! Now i can run faster and with the ability to hide from my enemies...I gotta play more...Hopefully I dont get over it soon. I was almost getting bored already when I got to level 18 and 19. Now, this the feeling was renewed.
Saturday, I was determined to go out. Can't stay in for the rest of the long weekend. Been wanting to go for the island excursion since my last trip here. So this is it. After all, it's a long weekend and I've got nothing else to do except...WoW. Nah...gotta get some life! I intended to catch the morning excursion which starts at 9:30am by the 'vaporetti' in Venice. Too bad, the bus that took me to Venice came late. So I missed that one. Had to go for the 2:30pm session instead. So I spent a few hours lingering around Venice, waste some time to queue up (a long queue) for the basicila visit, and had Burger King for lunch. Strange thing is...I never bothered to visit the basicila after being in Venice for so many times. Good that I have too much time on hand this round. After all that, it was time to get on board. This excursion is only 19Euros...which pretty cheap. A 3 & 1/2 hour trip, they took me to Murano, Burano and Torcello. These 3 islands are the only islands which tourists mainly hops. Murano is famous for its glass making. Burano is a fishing village and famous for its lace and multi coloured houses. And Torcello is one of the islands' first capital. It has an old catheral but by the time i got there, it's closing...so I didnt manage to get in. Well, no loss there I suppose. By the end of the trip, I was tired, cold and hungry.
I thought of eating dinner but in the end, I just got myself a calzone. A pastry with ham, mushroom and cheese. Thats dinner. Hmmm...no...dinner was at 9:30pm...Maggi Mee Curry with egg. Yeah, guess the calzone did not last very long.
Sunday, it is today. It's gonna be over in an hour. Once I'm done with this...I'm off to read some then to bed. I went into Venice again, gotta buy some stuff for some people. Kinda like running errands. I was kinda lazy to go at first...but in the end...well, I managed to drag myself out of the door. I was there for a few hours, then hurried back and prepared lunch. The lunch lasted till dinner. So I dont have to cook again tonite.
That's the long weekend...and my last weekend here...I hope. Next weekend...I'd be home! :) Yay...!
Friday, I was just lazying in my apartment. Busy with World of Warcraft (WoW) again. I managed to get to level 20 now. Plenty of new, cool spells i could use. My druid gets to morph into a Cat now. Awesome! Now i can run faster and with the ability to hide from my enemies...I gotta play more...Hopefully I dont get over it soon. I was almost getting bored already when I got to level 18 and 19. Now, this the feeling was renewed.
Saturday, I was determined to go out. Can't stay in for the rest of the long weekend. Been wanting to go for the island excursion since my last trip here. So this is it. After all, it's a long weekend and I've got nothing else to do except...WoW. Nah...gotta get some life! I intended to catch the morning excursion which starts at 9:30am by the 'vaporetti' in Venice. Too bad, the bus that took me to Venice came late. So I missed that one. Had to go for the 2:30pm session instead. So I spent a few hours lingering around Venice, waste some time to queue up (a long queue) for the basicila visit, and had Burger King for lunch. Strange thing is...I never bothered to visit the basicila after being in Venice for so many times. Good that I have too much time on hand this round. After all that, it was time to get on board. This excursion is only 19Euros...which pretty cheap. A 3 & 1/2 hour trip, they took me to Murano, Burano and Torcello. These 3 islands are the only islands which tourists mainly hops. Murano is famous for its glass making. Burano is a fishing village and famous for its lace and multi coloured houses. And Torcello is one of the islands' first capital. It has an old catheral but by the time i got there, it's closing...so I didnt manage to get in. Well, no loss there I suppose. By the end of the trip, I was tired, cold and hungry.
I thought of eating dinner but in the end, I just got myself a calzone. A pastry with ham, mushroom and cheese. Thats dinner. Hmmm...no...dinner was at 9:30pm...Maggi Mee Curry with egg. Yeah, guess the calzone did not last very long.
Sunday, it is today. It's gonna be over in an hour. Once I'm done with this...I'm off to read some then to bed. I went into Venice again, gotta buy some stuff for some people. Kinda like running errands. I was kinda lazy to go at first...but in the end...well, I managed to drag myself out of the door. I was there for a few hours, then hurried back and prepared lunch. The lunch lasted till dinner. So I dont have to cook again tonite.
That's the long weekend...and my last weekend here...I hope. Next weekend...I'd be home! :) Yay...!
Sunday, May 28, 2006
Slovenian Sanctuary
It was last saturday morning that I went for this trip. One of my colleague here has been so kind to invite me to join her and her boyfriend to a trip which both of them and another 67 people has planned for sometime. A kayaking trip for their kayak club to a small town in Slovenia, just about 20mins outskirts of the Italian border.
I basically just tag along on this one. I am not prepared to do any kayaking. I have neither the proper gear or equipment. And most importantly, I dont know how to kayak. I've only done it once or twice in my life.
There was some minor 'confusions' when I arrived at the Slovenian checkpoint. I guess checkpoint like this one, probably hasn't seen an asian passport before. They had to flip through manuals, check on the computer and made some phone calls before putting a stamp on my passport and let me through.
I stayed in a hotel, just upstairs a restaurant. With 35 euro/nite, the room was cozy enough and has 3 single beds all for myself. The rest of them have their own camps at the campsite just about 2-3km from my hotel. So usually after my shower in the hotel, I'd walk down to the campsite just to sit with them. I cant speak italian, nor can they speak english much. So most of the time, it's only me and my colleague or her boyfriend talking. Occasionally, there were a few who were not so shy...would walk over and have a line or two to converse with me.
On Saturday night, there was a huge campfire and dinner. Barbeque. It was really good. The meat, the bread and the crowd. Though at first it seemed kinda awkward for the rest of them to have an asian in their crowd, towards half of the dinner...we sorta sparked off into quite a topic. Those few who speaks a little english, my colleague and her boyfriend, wanted me to teach them how to count from 1-10...in mandarin. Though i'm no expert, but 1-10 is still more than what i can do in this case. The crowd then grew to a larger number, attracting more attention. And at the center...there was me :"). It was a great evening, we enjoyed the talk...and the laugh.
The next day my colleague and some other women and children (those who didn't participate in the kayaking)...went for a walk to the waterfall. The scenery was amazing! I've never seen such a view before in my entire life. Cold mountain air, birds...flowers...bees...waterfall...natural rock formations. It's just good to have been there. I guess this is my once in a lifetime experience. I probably won't be back there anymore in this life.
As for this week, I was doing world of worldcraft most of the time. I finally found the signal for the broadband downstairs. Though its only at 40%(+/-) but its good enough to keep the game goin. With a daily subscription of 14.95 Euro...its probably the same as going out and spending money.
I basically just tag along on this one. I am not prepared to do any kayaking. I have neither the proper gear or equipment. And most importantly, I dont know how to kayak. I've only done it once or twice in my life.
There was some minor 'confusions' when I arrived at the Slovenian checkpoint. I guess checkpoint like this one, probably hasn't seen an asian passport before. They had to flip through manuals, check on the computer and made some phone calls before putting a stamp on my passport and let me through.
I stayed in a hotel, just upstairs a restaurant. With 35 euro/nite, the room was cozy enough and has 3 single beds all for myself. The rest of them have their own camps at the campsite just about 2-3km from my hotel. So usually after my shower in the hotel, I'd walk down to the campsite just to sit with them. I cant speak italian, nor can they speak english much. So most of the time, it's only me and my colleague or her boyfriend talking. Occasionally, there were a few who were not so shy...would walk over and have a line or two to converse with me.
On Saturday night, there was a huge campfire and dinner. Barbeque. It was really good. The meat, the bread and the crowd. Though at first it seemed kinda awkward for the rest of them to have an asian in their crowd, towards half of the dinner...we sorta sparked off into quite a topic. Those few who speaks a little english, my colleague and her boyfriend, wanted me to teach them how to count from 1-10...in mandarin. Though i'm no expert, but 1-10 is still more than what i can do in this case. The crowd then grew to a larger number, attracting more attention. And at the center...there was me :"). It was a great evening, we enjoyed the talk...and the laugh.
The next day my colleague and some other women and children (those who didn't participate in the kayaking)...went for a walk to the waterfall. The scenery was amazing! I've never seen such a view before in my entire life. Cold mountain air, birds...flowers...bees...waterfall...natural rock formations. It's just good to have been there. I guess this is my once in a lifetime experience. I probably won't be back there anymore in this life.
As for this week, I was doing world of worldcraft most of the time. I finally found the signal for the broadband downstairs. Though its only at 40%(+/-) but its good enough to keep the game goin. With a daily subscription of 14.95 Euro...its probably the same as going out and spending money.
Wednesday, May 24, 2006
Night of the Baccarata
It's raining this morning. It was raining too last night when I went to Venice after work for a baccarata. My fellow colleagues have very nice to invite me for my 2nd baccarata in life. It was a good round. We went from one pub to another...drinking and snacking as we go along....chatting, laughing and giggled like girls when we got drunk...though my italian is not as good as their english...they did put in alot of effort to make sure I wasn't bored or left out from our group of ten.
I was rather drunk in the end. Hmmm...I think I had...2 glasses of Spritz, 2 glasses of red wine and a glass of white wine. We visited a total of five bars in Venice...luckily, we have some locals among our group so they know where to go and how exactly to get there. If its not for them we'd probably end up at some tourist bar instead. Those bars that they have brought us to were very authentic ones...original Venetian style. And the snacks were awesome too. It was a great night out. I took the bus home after all that...can barely held myself together. Luckily the alchohol did not stretch into full effect on my way home. It's only when I got into my room that I started to feel dizzy and couldnt even stand up properly. I didnt know how I managed to shower though but I did had a quick one...and head to bed with my hair still damp. And best of all, the whole night's expenses were all paid. Though I offered to pay for a couple of rounds...but they insisted that we will do it again...I can pay another time. Fine People, Fine Wine...what a night!
I think this is my 2nd red wine...
I think this is the last bar we visited...
I think this is the 3rd bar...or 4th...
I think this is the 3rd...or 2nd...
This is definitely the 1st bar...
Chichetti...small light bites...
My first glass of Spritz and Chichetti...
I was rather drunk in the end. Hmmm...I think I had...2 glasses of Spritz, 2 glasses of red wine and a glass of white wine. We visited a total of five bars in Venice...luckily, we have some locals among our group so they know where to go and how exactly to get there. If its not for them we'd probably end up at some tourist bar instead. Those bars that they have brought us to were very authentic ones...original Venetian style. And the snacks were awesome too. It was a great night out. I took the bus home after all that...can barely held myself together. Luckily the alchohol did not stretch into full effect on my way home. It's only when I got into my room that I started to feel dizzy and couldnt even stand up properly. I didnt know how I managed to shower though but I did had a quick one...and head to bed with my hair still damp. And best of all, the whole night's expenses were all paid. Though I offered to pay for a couple of rounds...but they insisted that we will do it again...I can pay another time. Fine People, Fine Wine...what a night!
My first glass of Spritz and Chichetti...
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