Memoirs of an US trip

What is the world coming to?

2008-09-25T20:39:00.000-07:00

First, there was lead in toys. Second we discovered there's extra chemicals in our canned foods. Then came melamine in our milk...and the crashing of the American banks and mortgage companies, amidst of all the ongoing terrorist bombings. Is there anywhere safe from these nonsense? I think it's time to go back to the stone age. Clearly technological advancements and improvements in quality of life seems to much to handle by some of the people in the world. It's always the problem of cutting corners to make quick big bucks, failure to handle finances, and pitting race against race, religion against religion. The better we get at improving our lives, the more problems we get. Maybe the speed of advance is to quick, that people cannot take the pressure and try to find short cuts. Heh, when will they ever learn, bombing hotels and embassies are not going to change the fact that the US will still have troops in stationed in their countries? When will they ever learn that paper cannot conceal a fire, that someday your sad cheating ways will be discovered? And that money requires more vigil handling? The problem lies with planning ahead, and thinking for the future. Many huge corporations these days started small, with some even teetering on the verge of failure. But with eyes set for the future, decisions are made that will help it grow steadily.

Traveling Times - Universal Studios

2008-08-26T09:27:00.001-07:00

Welcome to Universal Studios...the entertainment capital of Hollywood. The coveted red carpet.
Don't mind the hair, this was taken at the end of the day, after our very last ride which was Jurassic Park.

This has got to be my most favouritest simulation of all. What I like about it is the theming, and the part when the ride just starts. It makes you think that the wall in front will open up and you will go through into the world of Krustyland, but instead it just brings you up into the big screen above, which really is quite an amazing concept. I like the grouping facility (Dark Knight really should have one...) that saves tonnes of time and really prevents bastards going 'Ah wanna get da front! Ah waited 3 hrs in line, ah wan da front!' It's like, sir, the queue line was only 45min.

Qiqi and Xiaoyun with one of the 3 mummies at the exit of the ride. Revenge of the Mummy is really quite an interesting ride. But when it comes to roller coasters changing tracks and all, Expedition Everest is still better and more exciting. But this ride, being indoors, really gave it all it could and frankly is good! My only complaint would be that it's too short. Theming was amazing, and the concept was good. It's kinda like a launch coaster cause first you go slow with all the mummies and stuff surrounding you, then Imhotep or something like that wants to capture your soul and the coaster shoots off into the dark.

Like I said, the theming was good. Gives me an opportunity to take this picture, like I'm totally exploring the pyramids in Egypt, just that there's AC and doesn't smell like dead people.

I really love this walk through. My favorite part was the one with the body bags hanging around and we have to make our way through it. That was...scary...

A view of San Fernando Valley. Again, pardon the hair.

This is my favorite ride cause: 1. I love dinosaurs, 2. Jurassic Park is my favoritest movie of all times, 3. there's a T-rex in the ride somewhere. It's all about the dinosaurs. Oh and, we did get very wet on this ride, but not as bad as Tidal Force though, it's like half the wetness. The Californian sun helped dry us off real quick.

I was kinda hoping to see T-rex, but Spinosaur is good too. Like, it has a sail and useful forearms, and it's much bigger than T-rex. So, all hail Spiny! It would've been better if there was an overturned Jurassic Park vehicle but oh well...

Brachiosaurs greeted us.

Into the danger zone. Water just drips from everywhere...goodness...

Yup that's about it for Universal. I must add that it was a last minute decision and we didn't regret it. If only I could stay in LA for a few more days, I'd visit Santa Monica, the beaches, the La Brea Tar pits, Beverly Hills, and other parts. Next time; this ain't gonna be the last.

Traveling Times - Los Angeles

2008-08-26T09:14:00.000-07:00

This is the last stop of our trip: LA! Hollywood! Above is the picture taken at the well-known, but seriously quite empty Hollywood Walk-of-Fame. There isn't that much on Hollywood Blvd, half a day, or a night is more than sufficient to clear the popular parts of it.

The Garumann Chinese Theatre, where on the pavement many celebrities are immortalised. It is an actual cinema, but then it is a terribly overpriced one. Not sure if Xiaoyun and Qiqi did go watch a movie here. Would like to know how the decor inside is.

The Kodak Theatre! This was where American Idol finals are held. Wanted to buy Absolut Los Angeles (there in the statue) at the airport, but was afraid of all the taxing issues, so did not till I got in the boarding area. Unfortunately, they don't sell it there, and I missed my chance of getting the limited edition Absolut Los Angeles!

The rich residential area of Hollywood...wonder who lives behind those giant walls...but that's not the main point. Look closely and see the Hollywood sign in the distance...use a magnifying glass.

This is the old Chinatown, where most of the people there are Cantonese. The place is pretty bare now, and I didn't know why till my dad told of a new Chinatown somewhere else. That is populated by mostly Taiwanese. I was wondering why this is called 'old' Chinatown. It didn't occur to me to find the new one...

Standing outside the Chinese Theatre on the second floor.

This is the shopping area next to the Kodak Theatre. We didn't go to the shops, for it's all going to be high-end, plus we need an early night as we decided to go Universal Studios the next day. Therefore, we head further down the boulevard to take more pictures before heading back to the hostel to film an introduction to the creepy and yet authentic Orange Drive Hostel.

Traveling Times - Half Moon Bay

2008-08-26T08:35:00.000-07:00

The coast of California is very beautiful. I had decided to stop in Half Moon Bay because Frommer's did make a special mention of this place. But perhaps I did not read it carefully, so we did not do very much there. It was more of a relaxing evening for us. Half Moon Bay is a real quiet little town, and everything at the 'town' area closed when we got there, and it was only about 6pm! We went to take a look at the opening hours and saw that it was 6-5. Wow...people open their shops at 6 here, which is quite a shock to us city dwellers.

I only found out from Wing when I got back to Sg that there was this beach called St Regis or something like that where seals would bask in the sun. Dammit!

Traveling Times - San Francisco

2008-08-26T07:27:00.000-07:00

We're finally at San Francisco! About 20miles out of San Frans, we could already see the low lying clouds hanging over the city. I had thought that was smog, like the LA smog, but that turned out to be clouds, and the reason why they were lying so low, we soon found out when we entered the city, was that the temperature there was surprisingly low! It was even worse when the winds blew, and San Frans, being close to the sea, has its ample share of cold sea breeze. I wonder, if it was possible, that San Frans share some of this coldness with Singapore. Both cities would definitely be better off.

This is the entrance to CHINATOWN! Yes, we made it a point to visit all the Chinatowns of the cities that we are in. So far for me personally, the one in NYC, Washington DC, Philly, San Frans and then LA. The Chinatown here is much cleaner than the one in NYC but more touristy, so there wasn't much groceries to be bought, even if we wanted to. The Chinatown in NYC, though dirty, was definitely better stocked with Chinese goods and stuff. The one in Philly is kinda in between San Frans and NYC.

Along the streets in Chinatown.

We settled for lunch at a Chinese restaurant. Not too shabby. What's funny though, was that they called 'Guo Tie' 'pot-stickers'. It was like, a literal translation! In Singapore, we call them fried dumplings, which kinda makes more sense I feel. 'Pot-stickers' was really too literal, and sounds a little unhealthy if you ask me...so what made it stick to the pot? Over-cooking it?

My favourite part of San Frans has got to be the piers. Very cold, yes, but also very beautiful and very serene. Just strolling along the coastline, without much activities, is already eventful enough for me. Pier 39 is famous for all the sea lions come out to bask here, and they do draw quite a crowd.

Another thing why I like the piers is because of the abundance of seafood. Not very cheap to say, but rather affordable. I go crazy when I see shellfish and other seafood like squid. Jamie heard that Thailand has very cheap seafood, and is jio-ing people to go with her. Sounds like a good plan to me..!

This is it, the famous and touristy Fisherman's Wharf!

Having dinner at the cheapest restaurant we can find. I couldn't really go any further for I was hungry and the sea breeze was bone-chilling. But how about this huh? Having seafood dinner by the wharf with a view of the docks? That made my night; I couldn't ask for anything else. After dinner we went to watch one street performer for quite some time. That guy is Eric Cash, very sarcastic but definitely funny and mostly entertaining. A must watch if anyone manages to catch him performing.

The next day, we went to Castro, as Qiqi wanted very much to see parades and stuff. With rainbow flags all around, we knew we were in the territory. That was further confirmed when we saw men holding hands.

The place where we dined for lunch. Alright, it wasn't a restaurant, but a diner. It was nonetheless a quiet little place and the food was good. I had a turkey burger. I saw policemen in Castro, and thought why would anyone need the police in Castro. Everyone seemed so civilised and friendly. Unless they are protecting the people of Castro from outsiders, ah, that I can understand.

This picture was taken at the Golden Gate Park. It was basically pretty flowers all around and man-made waterfalls. But some of the stuff, like the Japanese Tea Garden, requires an admission fee, so, of course, we didn't visit it. However, all other stuff are already good enough.

This is the third day, the day where me, Qiqi and Xiaoyun would walk a lot towards the Golden Gate Bridge. Our first stop is this, the famous twisting and winding Lombard Street. I bet none of the locals use it, for it is just for tourists like us to take pictures and drive down on. Oh and did I mention the roads in San Francisco is terrible? Goodness...it can shoot out in so many different directions that I don't know which lane to follow, that was especially in Market Street. then all other streets are one way, then there are those slopes that goes horrendously steep. Although we were charged another day for our car rental (as we returned it late), we decided to return the car since I really didn't feel like driving. Parking the car on these roads is something else!

Lots of such historical ships and boats along the piers that we pass by on the way to Golden Gate Bridge.

Finally! After walking close to 3 miles, we arrived at the coveted Golden Gate Bridge! The weather wasn't too bad, at least it wasn't all that cloudy. I could see the azure of the sea, which is always a good thing.

We took the cable car back, because I was done with walking for the day, and Qiqi really wanted to give it a try.

The cable car conductor (actually 2 of them, black men, were really friendly and humourous) offered to help us take a picture, and was the one to suggest this pose. So he is both the cameraman and the director! haha

Traveling Times - Yosemite National Park

2008-08-26T06:58:00.000-07:00

This was the second leg of our travel: the trip to Yosemite National Park. It was a very long drive to Yosemite, but luckily we had the GPS, so we didn't lose our way. We stopped quite a few times along the way just to take photos. Below is one of them.

Traveling from LV to Yosemite and then to San Frans, we saw changes in the landscape and vegetation from desert to temperate, and then to semi arid. I personally love the desert landscape, because it gives me a feeling of cleanliness, like it is all dry and nothing is decomposing in the shrubs like what a tropical rainforest would be.

This is the first nice view we have of Yosemite. Needless to say, I had to stop the car and we came down to take pictures. The sun was setting too, which cast a lovely yellow-orange hue on the mountains, giving it kind of a dreamy effect. It got cold too, but still manageable. It just meant that we can save some battery power by switching off the air-conditioner. Somehow the pictures that we took didn't really do the scenery justice, for it was much better when I saw it there.

This is one of the scenic destinations of Yosemite Valley. The name of this dome might be called El Captain if I'm not mistaken. If not, it might be just another monolith, that looks just as good.

This is the famous Yosemite Falls. But in summer, the falls is merely a trickle, less than half the grandeur it would be in spring.

This is a typical view in the Yosemite Valley. It was cool in the morning, but it soon got warm in the afternoon. Again, we should have spent more time in Yosemite, for when we first arrived there we were in a rush to get to the hostel that we didn't stop to take pictures at the beautiful landscape along the way. We didn't have time the second day to go back, which was really a pity.

Traveling Times - Las Vegas

2008-08-25T21:38:00.000-07:00

This has got to be my favourite place out of all the places that we have visited. Sin City is pretty decent for me quite ironically, for all I wanted to do there was to enjoy the architecture, the lights, the casinos and the free shows.

We didn't have a lot of time in Vegas. Our flight there was 4hrs late, so that left us with not much time to wander around when we got there. But we did walk around till 2.00am (which is 5.00am Jersey time. Imagine that, almost a whole 24hrs without sleep!) and we got too tired and just went back to the hotel. The temperature there was terrible when we first arrived: about 43deg celcius. Although it was insanely warm, the humidity was as low as can be, so it didn't feel uncomfortable. I got used to it on the second day. Btw, all these photos are taken on the second day.

This is the very famous musical fountain of the Bellagio. They have shows every half hour I think, or at least that's what they have me thinking. Not sure what the time for the last show is, but do try to catch it early.

Brooklyn Bridge in LV? This is LV's New York New York Hotel and Casino. Not sure how it is inside as we didn't venture inwards since we were on a tight schedule. We only entered those casinos that we thought were worth a visit. This, unfortunately, was not one of them. Qiqi's laughing heartily here as she imitates Tianze's hand signal. 'What's this suppose to mean? Call me ah?' she asked, and we all shared a laugh.

This is the Venetian. We did go into this one. Made to look like Venice, the inside is complete with a river and gondolas running through it. Both sides of the river on the interior of the casino are lined with restaurants and shops.

At the aisle of the Venetian.

The Phantom of the Opera plays here. Not sure how good the singers are, but the prices are comparable with the ones in NY. There is a photo of the interior of the theatre, and it doesn't look too shabby. Xiaoyun was tempted to watch, but thought that she would rather leave it to the cast in

This has got to be my favourite hotel in all of the strip: Caesars Palace. It is just simply magnificent, with all the Roman statues and decor. Nothing on the strip can be compared to what Caesars has done.

Watch out for this fountain, as this is where they have a show. Not sure how often the show runs, but we were lucky. We got there just in time for a show. The sound system wasn't really good, so I sometimes can't make out what the characters were saying. Just ask for directions to a show at the fountain.

The outdoor swimming pool at Caesars.

Treasure Island. They have shows every night here at the entrance as well. Must wait there at least 15min before the starting time as many people gather to watch . Quite seriously, the story is a little absurd...but for a 20min free entertainment, I shouldn't complain. I like the decor of TI too, but Caesars still take home the prize.

Nothing much in the Mirage.

The Excalibur. Should be a good casino to visit but we didn't have time to really walk through the whole casino, so we just settled for the buffet dinner.

This is the Luxor. Seriously, this hotel and casino is not at all interesting to visit. Or it's just that we did not see the nicer parts of the hotel. Time was tight, when such entertainment was not readily available, we just left.

Stratasphere, the tallest hotel in Vegas. Have to pay to get up to the top, that's why we didn't go. There is a small amusement centre up at the top, consisting of 3 thrill rides. If you have extra cash to spare you may want to check it out, cause one of the rides dangle you over the edge of the platform!

Circus Circus, the casino I remember best from 13 years ago. Inside, the casino looks like a carnival, with games stalls and slots machines surrounding a stage where acrobats perform (free) every certain period. Once again, we were lucky to have just arrived and a show was about to start. The acrobatics was okay, wasn't something too spectacular, but hey, it's free, and we appreciate it very much nonetheless.

This is the Adventure Dome in Circus Circus. Just another themepark kind of place. Had enough of themeparks? Then just give this a miss. But I love roller coasters, so I had to come see how the roller coaster in here is like haha.

Oh, there is a Krispy Kreme outlet in Circus Circus, make sure you guys go try it! Go for the original glazed doughnuts, those are the best. A word of caution though, it is rather sweet, so if you don't like sweet stuff, better just buy one. In any case, you have to try it!

So that's almost our whole journey of Las Vegas. Apparently there are some outlets there that friends said were worth checking out. Then it comes back to the same ol reason: NO TIME!! So I would recommend at least 4 days in LV. It really is quite an incredible place.

My Birthday Post

2008-06-07T03:46:00.002-07:00

It's another birthday away from Singapore. Thanks to my family and all my friends for all your birthday wishes, and a very big big thanks to the Singapore contingent who celebrated my birthday yesterday. It was a surprise as usual and they bought me a small strawberry cheesecake, and it was absolutely delicious! Thanks to my American friends Stephen, Shawnette and 2 international friends (Carlos, Samkeliswe) who sang me a birthday song before we started work yesterday.

Taken at the Runaway Mine Train. A beautiful view of El Toro and the pond in the sunset.

Me, Tianze and Jamie with Sylvester and Tweety at the Mainstreet Fountain.

Me and the pre-fabricated, cable pulled, wooden roller coaster God, El Toro. The drops and uphills climbs are steep and the caoster travels fast and smooth, so it feels like you are going to be thrown from your seat when it goes over the hills. The bends are also really fierce and intense as well, throwing one from side to side. Must relax otherwise will suffer whiplash...have been on this ride 8 times.

Me and the world's tallest, fastest roller coaster, Kingda Ka...the majestic grandeur of it all...I of course love this coaster over Hypersonic of KD. But I had a friend who preferred Hypersonic because he said the acceleration for Hypersonic is a lot faster, taking only about 1.something sec to reach its full speed, while Ka needs about 3.something sec. I argued even though that may be true, Ka is still a lot faster, and do I mean a loooooooooooooot! When it starts to travel the wind just blows on my berms and shirt so hard that it feels that they are gonna rip right off (So I really don't mind it taking 3.something sec to launch, cause I'll die if the acceleration only takes 1.something sec lol)! Then it winds up to the peak like a snake before plunging down again. And another thing, Hypersonic only sits 8 people a car, Ka sits 20...have only been on this ride 3 times, and counting.

The Great American Scream Machine. It's an old steel coaster, the stereotypical type where you would think of once you hear the term 'roller coaster'. Not a comfortable ride I must say, cause it tends to get rough in spots and it really hurts the head. But it is the most photogenic ride, with 8 inversions (loops and corkscrews), white supports and a red track. I have the most pleasure taking photos of this ride, but not riding it.

First Post of 6Flags

2008-05-31T06:46:00.000-07:00

It's been almost 3 weeks since I've arrived here, and most of the days here are cold and rainy. Temperatures drop to about 10degC during the rainy days, and the next day could be well and sunny. Yes, the weather here is really erratic...

I can't help but compare 6Flags to KD, and the first subject of comparison would have to be the roller coasters. The roller coasters here are really sick, esp those such as Kingda Ka and El Toro. Kingda Ka is God of roller coasters, and El Toro is the supreme ruler of wooden roller coasters. I've already been on El Toro 5 times, and only twice on Kingda Ka, because the lines are always damn long for Kingda Ka, that may stretch for 2 hours. There are other totally exciting roller coasters, like Nitro and Medusa, but Kingda Ka and El Toro are the Gods in my opinion.

I work at a new coaster called The Dark Knight, in affiliation to the movie of the same title. It's suppose to be a family roller coaster, that's why many of the adults that went on found it...a little less of their expectation. It is the only roller coaster in this park with a story btw, might even be the only ride! I think I'll permanently be working at The Dark Knight, judging from what my manager told me. It's good in the sense that the work area is air-conditioned (whole coaster is indoors, which means it can't be all that big), which works well during the summer, but it also means that I get to know less people, and less exposure to other rides. If having to train elsewhere means that I have to work the less exciting rides such as the ferris wheel...I'd rather stick with Dark Knight...

I must mention this. On that fateful day of 26th May, while I was checking restraints, a supervisor came up the exit with a group of African-Americans, all rather well-dressed (as in fashionable, in the hip-hop way, not in the formal sense). Then one of them came and sat down on the next rail car that got into the station, followed by her friends. I stared at her for quite sometime, and when the car moved out of the station, I ran over to my colleague Diamond, who is also an African-American, and asked her, 'Was that Missy Elliot???' and she was like, 'YA!!!' I was really overwhelmed, and when she got back to the station, I took another good look at her...it really was Missy...it just sux that I was working and can't get a picture taken with her...she was within touching distance....

The Batman The Ride

Some of my colleagues at the Dark Knight station.

At the Wild Safari

At Dark Knight, still in the process of completion

Syesha

2008-05-01T19:38:00.000-07:00

From the way she's been doing during the results show, I believe Syesha might just turn out to be the winner...that is all

American Idol Season 7

2008-04-24T19:49:00.000-07:00

Just needed to get some thoughts off my chest: David Cook is seriously overrated these few weeks. Good singer yes, but not when it comes to his interpretation of the songs. I had thought that the version of Billie Jean he performed was his own, but it turned out to be some other rock singer's version, so oops, doesn't deserve credit for originality there. Then it comes to Mariah week. He choose possibly my favourite Mariah song, and gave it his own twist. With nobody to copy, his own interpretation turned out to be bad, wasn't even enjoyable at all. Don't understand why the judges all so complimented him. Now Andrew Lloyd Webber week. Music of the Night, a great song to sing, but his version...so-so...nothing ventured nothing gained. Flat...that is all.

Jason Castro, well, not a very flexible singer. He can only be a folk singer, for a very small niche group I must say. The age of the hippies is over, so get with the flow. But I do not abandon the possibility of him staging a comeback for the hippies with his presence on American Idol. I might see more Whites spotting dreadlocks when I get to the States.

David Archuletta, the youngest of them all in the top 5. Well what can I say? Gotta admit he's a musical prodigy; always delivering awesome renditions of well-known songs and he sings well too. Looks like there is nothing more to say but crown him the winner. He stood the test of time and certainly won me over. Go Archuletta lol.

Syesha is really so underrated by America! What is wrong with these people?? Why do they constantly not vote for this amazing singer? I really cannot understand why. She did great during Mariah week (sang 'Vanishing', in my opinion the most sincere piece Mariah had ever written) and also during Lloyd Webber's week. Why was she in the bottom 2??

I'm rather sad that Carly has to leave, as she has always been good. Maybe she screams too much, or maybe there aren't many who are willing to vote for the Irish (about the same reason why Michael Johns got out). In any case, it was a poor poor decision not to keep her in the competition. Judging from who's left now, I wanna see Archuletta and Ricardo in the final 2.

Theater Studies TS1101E

2008-04-18T21:27:00.000-07:00

I must say, this has got to be the best module that has happened to me. Not only is the content what I've always been interested in, the practicals are fun, the tutors fantastic, and the students wild. All that combined makes it a superb learning experience. Hell, I don't even feel that I'm taking a module; I feel like I'm just there to have fun.

Theory classes might be a boring experience for some, but with my tutor, Dr Bernard Turner, no classes can be boring. It might be his odd sense of humour, or the way he is so humanly fond of speaking, which adds an endearing trait to this tutor. He will too act out examples, much of which draws laughter from us. And to him, that proves his point.

Practicals have got to be the most fun. My tutor Nora Samosir looks somewhat familiar, and she'll have you know she is a veteran in the theater circle. The first lesson with her was rather intimidating, for she laid down the rules with much assertion, but the games that followed after were fun, and Ms Samosir showed herself to be just as cool and superb a tutor. Games are not just games in theater studies, as each aims to teach us a skill needed to perform in theater. Truly, 12 weeks of practicals are really not enough.

The Wonderful Class of Actors

I was lamenting that I didn't take TS1101E earlier, so that I may continue to level up with further related modules. Dr Turner mentioned that higher level modules do include cinematic elements, of which I am truly interested in. However, I have come to the end of my academic journey. But on the other hand I thought, hey, what better way to end it with such a big bang huh?

Mid-Sem Blues

2008-03-06T07:52:00.000-08:00

Mid-sem again, that's when things start to get crazy. The mid-term break didn't help at all! Considering it was soooo short, I hardly had any rest! Oh but one fun thing happened though, and that was a trip to Kukup with the WAT gang. That was quite a blast, for me personally. It was all cool because I got Lester, Xinyan, SweeLye and Siewling with me fishing while the rest were playing mahjong at the apartment. But this trip took place during the first weekend of the break, and I had nothing to look forward to the rest of the week.

Ok, why are things now crazy. I've got like, 5 projects to do, one of which is the horrendous Design II project. Thank goodness my group's consists of understanding people who gave me the task I wanted: HEN. I think that is the lesser of the evils that require understanding of the reactions. It's really messy business to be dealing with rates and rate constants and catalyst and those shit. The smarter people have taken the challenge of handling those stuff, so I thank them, with all my heart.

Then there are EG and HR projects...not too difficult for me I guess, cause it's mainly just writing, and I'm totally fine with that. EG's about ethics and stuff, so it's pretty intuitive. Unless you have been living on Mars for the past few decades of your life, then you should be able to distinguish between right and wrong. That is also given that you are sane and in touch with social norms. Now HR is an interesting module. It talks about interpersonal relationships, which inevitably entails talking about the development of oneself. It's really interesting to study the process and factors that affect who you are and how they form. But what really brought me the message that I don't belong in Chem Eng is when I kinda like this module, and others just totally hate it and think it's rubbish. Yes, it's one of those 'You know you don't belong when...'

Oh there's Malay speech/ skit presentation too. Just had a short vocab test and a composition/ picture conversation test. Did fairly ok for the short vocab test, but not as well as I would've liked to. Not too sure about the compo test though. Think it might turn out to be quite a disaster man...My group and I have yet to write a script for our group presentation. It has to be 15min long (5min each person), but I think after we 'errr' and 'emmm' it would have already taken up 10. Writing the script is a problem, rehearsals are another problem.

Oh then there's the polymer engr presentation slides that's to be handed up on 20th Mar. That one is kinda ok, not too much left to be done. But the module itself is quite disgusting, not as fun as I thought it would be. Misled...by my own instincts...

Finally, I think finally, comes theatre studies. Oh man! In 2 weeks we are suppose to have this 2 person performance in front of the whole class. But its a small audience, 14 students only. Still, forgetting the words will be quite embarrassing. We also have to be FULLY COSTUMED! Although it's a contemporary setting, there still lies the problem of dressing like your character. This means that rehearsals are required. More time dedicated to acting...

Received an email from Speedwing to attend the orientation. Getting really excited about going back to the States again, though this time with a group of people who I am not familiar with. I was acquainted with a few of them, but it won't be the same like 2 years ago where I made plans with good friends. This time there's a mix of anxiety and excitement, and frankly speaking, it doesn't feel good. If only there's a way to shift the proportion more towards the excitement and leave the anxiety behind. I can actually give the orientation a miss since I did a refresher course online. But I decided I'd go and take a look at the Six Flags crowd, and hopefully it will turn more of that anxiety into excitement. I'm really keeping my fingers crossed.

Another trip to Thailand Pt2

2008-01-17T06:48:00.000-08:00

So after we complained about the bed bugs, they removed the beds the next day. However, notice the wooden furnitures are just allowed to sun in the balcony. I don't think it's sufficient to drive the bed bugs away so good luck to the next person who stays in 624 of New World Lodge Hotel.

Ah...now this is what I call a hotel! This is the River Kwai Hotel and I strongly recommend it. Very nice and comfortable, though I still have that feeling bed bugs are crawling all over me with every little tingling sensation of my skin. Paranoia...

Yes do we love orange juice. I think I drank enough orange juice during that trip to last my life!

Oh I love the sour and spicy beef salad on the extreme left. It is just delicious! The other dishes are great too but the beef salad's my favourite.

Our first look at the legendary River Kwae. Foggy? No...the window of the van wasn't exactly clean...taken while the van was crossing a bridge. I hear our British companions go 'Amazing'.

Oh how zen! I haven't seen anything this beautiful and natural in like forever! Kinda feels like the forest of Fangorn or something, cept this is in a tropical rainforest. Would like to compare to the waterfalls in Maymount but you know, Maymount's just faking it.

Many fishes dwell in these pools. Just immerse your feet and stay still, and they will get to sucking your feet. Yah those are not leaves, they are fishes...

Another sight of a beautiful fall.

Me trying to get up close with the fishes. We were not suppose to catch the fishes, conservation? religious? I don't know, didn't ask since fishing wasn't on my agenda. My dad might have thought otherwise though haa.

Me and another one of the falls.

Yup, after close to 2km of trekking we came to the end of the trail. It's like a small oasis up there, very tranquil and serene. We rested for a while before making our way down.

The darker blue part is where the water got really deep. Didn't dare go there cause I was afraid of what's underneath...I watch too many movies about creatures from caves or from the deep.

Plus the water's really cold too!

Me living for a while as a monkey...the vines there are strong. One Russian woman decided to imitate what I had done.

A long drop into a deep blue pool. Looks too beautiful to be real.

While taking this pic I felt something touch my legs when I had them submerged in the water. Quickly pulled them out after that, scary...

One of the rickety old bridges we had to cross during our trek. It was almost falling apart I say, and boards perpendicular to the original ones are just haphazardly nailed in to stabilize the structure. Even those are coming off...

A cave in the cliff next to the Death Railway. Nothing special about this cave, cept that there sits a statue of a golden Buddha inside it. The cave was used during the Second World War as an air shelter.

I didn't realise how intimidating it was to walk on the track, till I had been doing it for 10min. The area for walking is really narrow, and if you accidentally fall, you fall into the River Kwai about 200m down...

On board the train. It's so weird these things: the locals take it as a form of everyday transportation, but we take it for simply entertaining ourselves, like it isn't enough that we are taking the MRT everyday.

Oh! The Bridge Over the River Kwai, part of the Death Railway. Again, walking along this precarious stretch of walkway is quite frightening, esp when there are like huge number of people walking on it at any one time, and in opposite directions somemore. I really wonder if anyone has fallen down into the river before.

Sunset view of the Bridge Over the River Kwai.

River Kwai...this is what you'd be falling into if you missed a step...

See what I mean?

Ok, dunno what this means. All War? or what?

Oh the bacon, Oh the orange juice!!

The elephant master for my sister and I. Forgot what his name is, but I remember it sounded very close to his pet's name. Managed to converse with him in Thai! WoopEE!

The elephant house...

Orrrr...ours a majestic one, with the tusks still nicely in place, and not as some decorative piece...

At a Vietnamese restaurant in MBK. Cheap and good food.

And did I mention I love the orange juice for the millionth time?

The four faced Buddha outside MBK.

There were many enclosures like this in the snake farm...what's in this? I asked my mom. There, mosquitoes and some insects lor...

Peacock peacock still stands so proud in his prison.

For a moment we thought the tiger is a fake one, or that it had died or something. But then it started breathing. Very poor thing...

Another Trip to Thailand Pt1

2008-01-16T03:58:00.000-08:00

Just came back from the Land of Million Smiles. Tired, but happy. However, it seems like my Karma ran out today, but it wasn't after seeing that bitch that things start to go wrong. Yes, that bitch. It actually do mean that bitch is my curse. Phenomenons in this world is just intriguing and beguiling: just when you want to avoid a particular vermin, it just comes swinging by every now and then, parading in front of you like a cockroach in your room that you just want to get rid of. And before you consciously sentence that vermin its much deserved title, it's never around, and I wonder is it just me.

The Academy Awards this year is just plain sad. Announcing the winners in news report fashion? Come on...who will want to watch that? I don't deny that the real reason for the award ceremony is to honor outstanding performance in the movie industry, but on some level, the ceremony has become quite a must watch event with all the red carpet glitz and glamor, and the jokes dished by the host of the ceremony. It livens a mundane ceremony, at least for those of us who are in for the good show and much less who wins what. I don't think I even know half the movies that are nominated! So I mean, I just hope that the Writers Guild of America strike will end soon. The talkshows need their writers too.

Ok anywayz, on to the main topic for this entry, and that is Thailand khrap! Yes, was there from the 9th to the 15th. Lotsa days I know! But it was nice to get away from Singapore for a while. We took Tiger Airways, and I don't know why this time I see vapour coming from the AC outlet. Is it very cold? No, not really...at least not at the temperature that vapour would condense till it's able to be seen. Maybe Tiger Air installed humidifier to keep the passenger's skin hydrated...thoughtful huh? I highly doubt it but it's just my own conclusion.

Was happy to see the Bangkok International Airport again, my gateway to good food and at very low prices too! Not to mention the shopping. But this time there'll be more sightseeing than the previous time, because we are heading to the province of Kanchanaburi, home of the beautiful (or so I heard) River Kwae. The trip to Kanchanaburi will only begin the next day, for it was already 11pm when we arrived at the BKK airport. And bloody hell, the reason why we arrived so late is because of a 2hr delay in the flight to BKK. Took a taxi to Samsen Rd, where our hotel is located. Threw our luggage aside and walked to Khao San Rd to have supper.

Now Khao San Rd is known to be a backpacker's haven in Bangkok, and wow do you see ang mohs there! There's got to be more ang mohs than locals there, and everyone's drinkin and having a jolly good time. I saw this police van though, patrolling that stretch of road every 10min, a need to keep the order in check when people are getting drunk and what not. You see, ang mohs are really friendly people when they are sober, but the devil is unleashed when alcohol is consumed. Alcohol's the devil's brew...

We settled for this pseudo restaurant like place, or simply just an eatery (had a tussle to decide on which word to use to describe this outlet). Not very cheap as I would have expected (but it's Khao San Rd, and the time is 12 something am na khrap, so what gives?). I ordered pineapple rice and ORANGE JUICE! Oh wow I can't emphasize enough how much I love the orange juice in Thailand! Well, if you technically look at it it shouldn't really be called orange juice cause that fruit is more like a tangerine than an orange. But anywayz the locals call it that and that's fine with me, as long as it tastes good rite? But not this one...it isn't the one that I had hoped for...it was more like those orange concentrate, and those very cheap kinds cause it tasted quite sour as well. Totally didn't like it at all. The pineapple rice was cooked with tomato sauce...err...well...not quite what I had expected as well. Totally disappointed, and I just treated it as a meal for sustenance, much less for enjoyment. 1st dinner of my 2nd trip to Bangkok, a letdown.

Then there's our hotel room. NO CARPET! I am a person who loves carpet in a hotel room, cause I like the soft and fuzzy feeling my feet get when walking on carpet. Though the more rational person would say floors without carpets are cleaner, but I just ignore the details and go with how I feel na khrap. So there was no carpet in this one right, and there was a certain musky odor in one of the rooms (there are 4 of us, 2 in each room). The one I was staying in seemed alright: everything is in place, and no odor, and the time after my bath (just a lil mention on the bathroom --> it's quite rudimentary) is already 1 plus pm. Time to hit the sac. That's when I felt mosquito bites on the right side of my neck and right hand. I brushed it aside, but the sting was quite annoying. I thought it must be the Thailand mosquitoes, more potent and powerful. I turned to my other side...then a lot more stings came on the left side of my neck and arm, but still I brushed them aside, trying to ignore them and get some sleep. I can't, cause the sting was too painful, and something that I had not experienced before. I looked at my skin under the bathroom light, and saw rashes-like growth at the areas I felt the stings. My dad was awaken (or maybe he hadn't slept yet I dunno) and thought I had rashes, and told me to go to sleep. I wasn't quite convinced though, and went to on the light in the room.

*Ding*

there...crawling on the walls...black dots of almost 1cm long... are bed bugs...

and oh my God...they are full of my blood...

My dad started killing them, ones that are full and ones that are still looking for a meal...my blood was spilled on the walls, and I bet the next day a red sun rises (only LOTR movie junkies would know why).

My dad and I pulled the mattress on the floor, and tried to go to sleep with the lights on, hoping to keep them away, but a few more came. That was when I thought, ok, enough is enough, we should get a room change. While my dad went down to get keys to a new room, I took a pic of one of them bastards, quite literally. Sorry it's not in focus, cause it was running away from me, the one thing it had tried to run to...I didn't kill it, I don't know why. It definitely wasn't because of Karma that's for true.

Alas a new room, everything inside was ok, but the room number was hanging. Something just had to be wrong.

I had the phobia of bed bugs for the next few days. It was like a nightmare come true, cause I had never thought it'll happen to me. Now that it does, I feel so vulnerable, like it's gonna happen anytime anywhere. Paranoia...

End of FYP

2008-01-07T17:55:00.000-08:00

Let's see what's new to write about. One thing's good that happened, and I'm very glad that it did, was the ending of my FYP. Handed up the report last Tues, though the process of handing up the report was quite a bitch, but it is over, and thank you JC.

The trouble with that process was this laboratory release form. We have to hand it up with our reports, which without it, the general office would not accept. So my supervisor was on leave starting about 2oth Dec, and I have no idea when he was gonna be back. I emailed the FYP coordinator if it was possible that I hand up the release form at a later date. And he said that it's OK. I happily printed the email transcript, and attached it to my report. But NO! the people at the general office were like, who's your professor? Oh he's here today, he's here, go get his signature. I showed them the email, No he's here today, he's not on leave, go find him, speaking like some kid with attention deficient problem. I had no choice but to give in to that attention deficient kid, or kids.

That's the start of the problem. That was about 2.00pm. Bad timing to be looking for my professor, cause apparently he's out for lunch. What to do what to do but wait? Good thing my matric card could still access the lab, so I went in to lounge a bit, in the meantime killing my professor's office phone with multitude of calls I'm making. I am quite impatient too, constantly walking in and out of the lab, go knocking on my prof's door (in case he's in but just refusing to answer the phone), walking around campus hoping to bump into him blah blah blah...and while I was walking back to the lab from one of them fruitless scavenger hunt, I received a call...IT WAS MY PROFESSOR! Thank you JC. I think I may have left 20 missed calls. The time was 3.10pm.

Now the second part was kinda easy: getting the lab officer's signature. Rite rite? Easy rite?? NO!!!! She had to be in a meeting when I need her!!!!! Ok, wait again. Oh did I mention I drove there, but with my dad as my chaperon? LoL oops, doesn't look good for me. So called my dad, sorry, have to wait a little longer, dunno when the meeting will be over...so went to the lab to chill again...but constantly looking at my watch...watching the time pass by...

I'm wasting my time, watching the days go by
Feeling so small, I stare at the wall...

Not only did I do that, I also went in and out of my lab to check on the existence of the lab officer at the lab counter. I must have looked like a maligned ghost drifting in and out seeking revenge. When I was resting from my hunt Eliang came into the lab. Is the prof in already?? I answered Yes yes, quick go catch him! And off she sprinted, and she came back a winner 5min later, satisfaction plastered all over her face. Alyssa back yet? It was a down-letting 'no'...So for the next 15min we took turns taking assuming the role of the revenge seeking ghost, drifting past the counter and back again when there was no sight of Alyssa.

Then Providence struck when Eliang just came back from lunch. I drifted past the lab opposite the counter and guess what?? ALYSSA!!! I ran back into the lab. Eliang saw my elated face and knew what had happened. She's back ah? Asking the obvious...

Bad day huh? But it came with quite a good end. I handed up the report and proceeded to look for my dad at the Arts carpark, the one near LT11. Along the way I saw about 9+ peeps on the path in front of me, and one guy was adjusting a big ass camera. 2 other stood on the other side of the camera. On closer inspection one of them turn out to be Jeanette Aw! Oh lawdy! The guy was wearing a helmet and I did not realise that he is Christopher Lee when I was passing very close to them. I may be wrong cause that helmet is really a hinder. Might have run up to them to get a photo taken, but those 9 people seem really forbidding...so I'm just contented with watching. A sorta consolation to a bad day.

Six Flags Hurricane Harbour

2007-12-27T05:16:00.000-08:00

I was watching this show on the great waterparks in the States on Discovery Travel & Living. Needless to say, KD's wasn't mentioned. And so was Six Flags'. Does it mean it'll suck?? Oh well, I don't really dig waterparks anyway, but I kinda hoping I can be a lifeguard this time round...and the show showed how waterparks are actually quite cool. Contrary to my perspective, they have great variety of water slides and wave pools and those lazy meandering streams that are just awesome. Yes I used it, 'AWESOME'. So, I hope the one in Hurricane Harbour will at least be a fraction of the awesomeness as some of the ones that I saw on the show.

Another great show that I watched is Kelly Osbourne: Turning Japanese. Very very funny and insightful. It brings you to see Japan as if you were living and working there (cause Kelly Osbourne takes on various types of jobs) and not just a tourist. Kelly couldn't stomach some of the weird practices that the Japanese have, and quite frankly, I couldn't either!

For example, the first job that she got was to work as a waitress in this teahouse for the geeks ( I think they call them Otaku). Yea, those people are seriously geeking looking, and these waitresses, dressed to look like milkmaids (except with rather short skirts) are to serve these Otaku with utmost politeness (including if they want cream in their tea, and should the waitress add the cream for them, and should she stir it for them, blah blah blah). Oh and they have to call them 'master'. Weird...

At the end of the day, Kelly was asked by the owner of the teahouse to massage him! Apparently the girls take turns to do that. He wanted her to clean his feet, massage them, then clean his arms, and massage them. Of course Kelly wasn't at all comfortable with the task, and gave him a very long explanation to politely reject him. He kept nodding like he understands...then he asked 'How about you just massage my shoulders?' He just doesn't get it does he?

The very interesting job that she got for that first episode was one in a Love Hotel. She was a receptionist and cashier. The whole thing was very weird cause that hotel is like a themepark for the Japanese couples' sexcapades...and all the time she was squirming and screaming and laughing really awkwardly. I would feel weird too if I have to work there, but it was fun to watch though HA!

A Sorta Birthday Celebration

2007-12-25T20:32:00.000-08:00

Dec's the month to deck the halls, be jovial, watch snow (or foam in Orchard Rd, they don't dothat anymore do they?) fall or party crazy out at Sentosa. For my family it's my sister's birthday celebration. She's a Xmas eve baby, and that's already special.

Ok my dad has this voucher for a selection of restaurants. He had decided to take us to Breeks at Marina Sq last week. Now it's been a very very very looooong time since I checked out that branch of Breeks. But the last time I was there (like, 6 years ago), they offered buffet. So I was quite skeptical if they still had it because I saw a new branch in Causeway Point and it was named Breeks Cafe, and they definitely did not have a buffet.

But like, what gives? We'll just go take a look and if they don't have a buffet, we'll just go for ala carte. Little did we know, Breeks Cafe at Marina Sq looked like it was some sort of Kopitiam (not the neighbourhood coffeeshop but the air-conditioned food court like place), and even my dad was not really keen on eating there. So we choose somewhere else, and I decided on Billy Bombers.

I like the concept of Billy Bombers, made to look like an American diner with the red cushioned seats and pictures of Elvis and Marilyn Monroe hanging on the walls. We were initially given this table with chairs as 2 of the seats. I was quite disappointed cause I want those cushioned seats for all of us; don't know what you call it but those partitioned cubicle seats. But by a miracle (in the spirit of Xmas I use such non-scientifically related term), the waiter asked if we want to move to one of those seats that I long for. I immediately said 'Yes Pls!'.

We praised the waiter for his good judgement, but it was later that I saw a 'reserved' sign placed on our previous table. Dammit...so it wasn't out of his good intentions. We got a good seat out of it anywayz so...

That's mom and sis with their enormous burger. Forgot what it's called though.

That me with my dad and my Betty's half spring chicken with potato salad on the side. Deeeeleeecious! My dad ordered Philly cheesesteak, which is really a sandwich of roastbeef fillings. Wow, one can never go wrong with roastbeef. I gotta say, it's my favourite type of beef!

So we didn't get to use that voucher in the end cause Billy Bombers wasn't on the list. However, my parents, especially my dad, was all praises for the eatery. Have a hunch we'll be back. Open one in Causeway Point leh...

This is sis with the mini log-cake we bought her, on the night of her birthday, and yes, that would be Xmas Eve. She was sick, and still is at this point of time, so it was a quiet evening.

Oh and what becomes of the voucher? We're going to Crystal Jade for dinner later. Causeway Point. Come on it's just a dinner so why do we need to travel so far rite?? The previous sentence is for those who went 'eee, Causeway Point...'

More Gatherings

2007-12-22T20:37:00.000-08:00

FYP ongoing, blood still spilling. That's the inevitable.

More gatherings worth mentioning, even in these troubled times. Such are the buoys that keep my raft afloat!

Met up with a few of the WAT gang peeps for a SweeLye farewell, Xmas and Zhiqian birthday ultimate combi celebration on the 16th. It was BBQ at Swee's place and I met Wenghong at Kovan station. We had some trouble getting there.

Ok, so it being an Xmas party as well, we'd have to exchange gifts. Well, I'm not good with such things so I figured that chocs were the best way to go. Plus, the budget for non-working participants was $10 hahaha and those working $20. I didn't think I'd need to wrap my gift, but they've already got that covered. They bought the wrapping paper, so most of the stuff was wrapped with the same paper (the army would've been proud of that...uniformity). That's me doing some last minute wrapping.

Zq said we were suppose to go atas, but Cynthia didn't think much of it. She wanted traditional BBQ food like crabsticks (which is really just made of flour...) and the normal type of hotdogs. They had no choice but to accommodate her...

Siewling and I started the fire. I figured she's the one with the stamina, so I let her do the fanning. Did a good job, I can't complain. I just got my hands dirrty with the charcoal. Yea, coincidentally, we were the 2 people with new hairdos that night, haaa.

Swee, Zq, Weng and Cynthia took over as the cooks for that evening, while the rest of us just goofed around and chilled.
Oh the cheese filled sausages were rather messy because they spurt cheese when you bite on them. That, was enough material for yellow jokes, for me at least =P I enjoyed the bacon wrapped mushrooms...not really mushrooms but I don't know what it's called in English, and those steaks as well. We threw Zq and Swee the challenge to make our steaks medium rare. And they did it! Good work. Thanks to Swee's parents for the chicken and steak.

Then it came time for pressie exchange. We had to redraw so many times cause people kept getting their own present. I got mine like, 2 times! But in the end I got Zq's gift and I thought it is something that my living room needs: a remote control holder. Nice. But I didn't think it would be anything good before I opened it though, cause Zq laughed really heinously whenever we mentioned his present. Swee got my gift. Needless to say, he was sian cause chocs just don't do it for him haha. Sorry man! We thought Jean brought the nicest gift of all (and it was nicely wrapped too! Obviously she's in the jingling mood <--her msn personal msg now). It was a small portable radio designed to work in the concept of a gramaphone. Really unique and cool. Lester got it dammit...

Xinyan got what she always wanted: a diary...awwww....
She was so elated she couldn't stop laughing LoL!

The gathering ended with a few of them playing mahjong till late, while Cynthia, Siewling, Xinyan and I left earlier.

*************************************************************************************

Another meet up that I went to last week that was kinda long overdue was with my unit's friends. We (actually it was just like one of them who suggested, then the rest of us, being very easygoing people, just agreed and followed) decided on this Turkish Cuisine place in Suntec. I'd never tried it before and thought it was a good chance to do so.

I had some mash potato with stewed beef I believe. The mash potato had a very strong herbal taste which I thought was unique. We also ordered this lamb thigh or something that was served with their type of rice and it was absolutely delicious! We couldn't get enough of it!

What was interesting at the dinner table that night was Wong Tien actually threw a sarcastic remark at Neo! Wow! When he said I was like, oh my goodness...that completely raised the bar. Of course Neo was cool with it and even egged him on to open up and make more of such comments, though he's planning how to detonate his home in the meantime. One big step forward for Wong Tien in the land of dishing sarcasm.

Neo introduced me to some new shows that he's been watching: Drawn Together and Robot Chicken. I can't say much about Robot Chicken because I totally don't get it. I couldn't make myself watch more than 1 episode of that stuff...

But as for Drawn Together, I'm totally diggin Foxxy Love! Yea, she makes the show. I would also like to totally slap Toot.

A November Dinner at Zig's

2007-12-21T01:28:00.001-08:00

Alrite this updated is on a dinner back sometime in November. Didn't blog then because of all the stuff that was going on (and by stuff I mean schoolwork and the brooding of some drama with some people that I would totally not associate with if I can make the choice all over again). Also just got the photos from Zig recently so it makes it more conveniently to write about it and post the pix at the same time. I can't let this gathering go unwritten because this is the first time in possibly 4 or 5 years that we have a dinner at Zig's. Used to do it quite often during JC but now it's seldom. I kinda hopping that we keep it at least as an annual affair cause it's always fun to hang out with Char Zig and Poonie.

Zig and Char love cooking and while I, don't...and for this dinner, they each had decided to prepare something. Zig asked me what I want to prepare, but my mind draws a blank. Then on the way to the supermarket I thought of mussels with melted cheese, a dish that my family is quite fond of, and decided that I won't go wrong with such a dish.

Char saw me with a packet of New Zealand mussels and some shredded cheese and asked me if I am making mussels monet or something like that. I was like, 'what the hell's that?' And she was like, 'mussels with cheese on top, usually they would put cream too' but I was like, 'err...I don't know man, I only know it as mussels with cheese' LoL.

She made soup and cupcakes. She was making the frosting for the cupcakes when I tasted a bit of it and loved it. She told me there was a batch of frosting made earlier and asked me if I wanted it, and yes, I was crazy enough to finish it...didn't feel full initially but when it came time for dinner, I was definitely done for the night...

But that doesn't mean I didn't eat though. Zig stirred fried some veggies, made chicken claypot rice and one other dish that I forgot was prepared by Char or Zig. With such succulent food placed before me, I cannot resist but try them.

Yeah and Zig was disappointed that we didn't want to dress up for the night (it was close to Halloween) but the rest of us felt kinda weird and troublesome to have to do that. Maybe next time huh? Nah...not likely. Inertia grows with age.

Oh yah I love the cupcakes. Actually, I love the frosting more. I don't know why but I just had a craving for fattening foods that night haha.

The Horrors of Silent Hill

2007-12-16T05:58:00.000-08:00

Dad was cleaning out the storeroom today and saw the new keyboard and mouse that came with the CPU we bought a few months ago. We've conveniently tucked those away as I found the current ones still adequately functional, but as of recently, the mouse has got on my nerves because dust kept collecting on the rollers and it irritates when it doesn't roll smoothly. Luckily the new one is optical, which means I don't have to constantly clean it's innards =P

Alright, recently just watched Silent Hill on DVD. My goodness, I've heard of the game, like how dark and disturbing it is, but the movie, oh my goodness, is seriously out to please all horror and gore fans.

I won't give a summary of the story, because that can be easily found on any website. So I should just write like how scary this show is. It didn't just have horror, it too is gory and really is something kinda disturbing. Whenever the air raid alarm sounds, all those creatures from hell will manifest and terrorise whatever humans are around. The protagonist of the show, Sharon's foster mother Rose, found that out after 2 or 3 rounds of encounter with these creatures. These creatures are not the in-your-face type of scary but the type that creeps up to you and mentally distraughts you before ending your life in misery. It is not a good way to die...

An example would be the dead janitor in the last cubicle of the girls bathroom. He was all tangled up in barb wire, his mouth open, and a piece of clue is found in his mouth. Naturally Rose freaked out when she saw this petrified janitor, but when she read the writings on the wall, she realised that she has no choice but to go obtain this clue, a clue to where her daughter might be. While she slowly walks up to the corpse, I had my eyes fixed on him. I was thinking if it does so much as to flinch, let alone turn into something more heinous, I am just gonna faint. It's scenes like this one that is disturbing because it's so uncertain! He didn't move though and I heaved a sigh of relief. Oh but when the alarm sounded this dead janitor came to life and he crawled on his stomach with his whole body arched like he's got his feet attached to his head. And when he touches the walls red stuff that looks like viscous coagulated blood will stream from his fingers and cover the whole wall. Imagine just standing next to the wall...yux...plus beetles start to crawl out from everywhere...kinda like The Mummy.

Another example would be the team of bloody nurses blocking Rose's path. These nurses each hold a knife, move like they have spasm in all possible joints of their limbs, have great figures, but the face is something else...put on a paper bag and we'll talk. These nurses are attracted to light, and will become very active in the presence of light. On the other hand, they are dormant in the dark. Rose figured that the only way for her to make it through to the other side was to switch off her torchlight, and carefully, quietly, maneuver her way between these creatures. I was like, oh man....heaven forbid anyone of them move when Rose is in their midst. Again the uncertainty strikes: are they gonna start a slashing frenzy when they realise Rose is in their midst? Or are they gonna just stay still since there's no light? Seems like Rose is not so lucky this time. One of the nurses started slashing when she was in their midst, but Rose managed to get to the other side unscathed, leaving the nurses to slash each other to death or whatever goals they are trying to accomplish by slashing each other because I think they might already be zombies...

And then there's the gore. There was this triangle headed creature I forgot what it's called but apparently it's quite a notable creature in the game cause the game fans were quite pleased with its construct in the movie. Well, this creature wields this big ass blade that my cousin says resembled the one from Final Fantasy Advent Child (I had no idea, haven't watched that film yet...) but he killed nothing with it. Instead it was when the alarm sounded and all other humans got into the church (yes, the church was a safe haven for these humans from the creatures from hell) except for this one lady, cause she wanted so much to throw stones at this seemingly deranged woman, and the triangle headed creature manifested in front of her, picked her up with one hand, ripped her clothes off with the other, and proceeded to rip her skin off...thereby killing her. OMG...that was seriously quite a scene.

There were many more scenes like this one, but I guess you should just go see it to experience it. It seems that there is Silent Hill 2, cause the ending insinuated continuity: Rose and her daughter, though they got out of Silent Hill physically, the environment in the outside world still looked like they're in the Silent Hill dimension. This is an all too familiar concept rite? You can check out anytime you like, but you can never leave - and then the guitar plays us off to the end of the song...

Pictures taken from www.rottentomatoes.com

ŋaan lĭaŋ ?aacaan ?ŏy thîi raan ?aahăan Lemon Grass thîi Heeran

2007-12-10T18:15:00.000-08:00

Right, am in the midst of writing my FYP report. Had just started on the intro and I'm already digressing to write this blog. Wonder how am I ever gonna finish it by the end of this month. If my projections are correct, I'm already a dead man...

A holiday is like no holiday at all...

But there are always something good in life that will keep you optimistic and look forward instead of mulling in distress and slump into depression. That, may I reiterate, would be friends and family.

Our ?aacaan phasăa thay gave us a treat at Lemon Grass yesterday. She brought along fɛɛn ?aacaan kàp nɔɔŋ (sorry la, couldn't one with the correct tone marker) săaw ?aacaan. One thing I noticed about the Thais is that they are very friendly, even to people whom they've just met (ok i can sense people are going like, duh, that's why Thailand is aka the land of a thousand smiles! So may I just emphsize this point? Seeing is believing rite?). The case was with Kesada (the post-grad in my lab), Xueyin's friend phîi Bii and now, fɛɛn ?aacaan. Very affable and very warm. I had thought it was going to be awkward since we do not know the both of them, but he just started chatting with us like we are his old friends, which really puts us all at ease. But of course, sometimes they spoke quite a mouthful of Thai that I just couldn't catch. This makes me reconsider taking Thai 2 instead of Malay. However, I think I should get a foundation in Malay instead; it's easier to build on a foundation by myself than trying to build the foundation on my own.

We had a great time just chatting, about us, about them and about Thailand. May I say there wasn't a dull moment! The food was also great. I especially loved the sour and spicy chicken, and the tom yam soup of course *mouth waters*. We did complain though, that we were disappointed that raw mây pay chim ?aahâan thîi bâan ?aacaan. She laughed and invited us to her place after the new year, before school starts. I was like, wow, another opportunity for a great gathering! And this time we will be able to see her Prada and LV collection LoL!

Us students hung out for a while after the dinner at Lido, before making our way home. I am a little surprised that my classmates and I have gotten to be friends just after 4months of lessons, plus an ?aacaan who likes to hold gatherings, which gives us another chance to hang out. The reason for my surprise is I heard from my friends studying in the arts faculty that people don't usually make friends in arts courses, or for other courses like business where students don't have a fixed class. The relationship between people are mostly hi-bye only, so I'm quite heartened to see that most of us can communicate like good friends, and not just the hi-bye type haha. I guess it's the people and the type of lesson that we are in: it forces us to interact, and in the process we get know each other better.

2 new phrases:

1. pay thîaw - go for a holiday
2. dəən thîaw - jalan jalan, walk around for fun

An embarrassing thing was that I wrote 'plate's auntie' instead of 'teacher' on the photo we gave her. It was so funny when they spotted the mistake. But it's still pronounced the same though. I told ?aacaan that it's intentionally for comic relief...

KTV is My Hobby

2007-12-08T17:53:00.001-08:00

Had the usual routine of KTV last night. Other than the usual Chantele, Xueyin and Lester, Zhiqian also joined us. "Defending your turf are you?" of course it was a negative LoL.

We first had our dinner at Spageddies (not sure if that's how it's spelled) and the food ain't good boy! It kinda tastes like I'm eating western food in NUS (this might even be a little insulting to NUS canteen). And of course the veteran foodie ZQ complained about the food. We originally wanted to go to Sushi Tei, but the queue was long, and the same goes for the queue at Ding Tai Feng. So what gives? We were in a rush and just needed some food to digest.

Xueyin brought along her colleague, Bee's the name, and she's Thai. And you know what that means...I get to practise! LoL luckily she understood most of the stuff that I said =P

KTV was hot (not literally, you, the reader, must know this about my lingo), Zhiqian introduced us to a whole lists of new songs that we ain't never heard before (although we should keep ourselves contemporary. We're still young you know) and Lester likes old (I mean those oh my goodness I can't believe he's singing songs THIS old) songs. LoL. Then there's the usual fare of Kit Chan, Sammi Cheng and Faye Wong from Chantele. She tend to sound a little like each of them, depending on whose song she's singing at the moment, however, I thought wasn't quite a compliment when Lester thought her singing resembled Cai Chun Jia LoL. And Yang, oh well, she was the one who did the rockin yesterday as my voice was stuck after drinking that stupid mango milk! I rem Jean telling me that such drinks would cause the voice to be so, and I guess I just have a knack for turning a deaf ear to good advice. Thanks to Lao Niang anywayz.

After that went to some hawker opposite Cine. That's where we had BBQ sambal stingray and fried oyster. Yums! ok it wasn't that fantastic but I guess it was good enough for that night. Would have been better if there were sugar cane though, but there aren't so I went with green tea. Not my usual choice but I thought it would be easier for Lester to order.

And during the supper we just started talking about the times we spent in VA, though much of the stuff I believe have been talked about many times over, I still find it refreshing to always talk about them. It never seems to get old. And time just flew by. Soon it was 3.00am and we should be going. The others had plans for the next morning while I had hoped the session lasted longer. It's ok anywayz, a gathering is always around the corner, so I look forward to the next one.

I think good friends are like a good book: you can read it many times over but each you read it you'd still enjoy and discover something new. That's the feeling I get when I'm with the Work and Travel 2006 gang.

After the Storm

2007-12-06T20:49:00.000-08:00

Whew! The big E's finally over! Wow, I feel so energized now, unlike a few days ago: I was studying for my last paper (I had only 2 days to cover a whole semester's work cause I had previously not revised it and I've not paid much attention in class but I know that the questions in the exams are gonna be vastly different from what is taught in class judging from the type of questions the lecturer set for the midterm *breathes* so it's really not that big of a deal not really studying for it though there do lingers this fear that he might actually come up with questions from the notes and also to rid myself the guilt of not studying better for the exam if questions similar to what can be found in the notes do actually appear in the paper *breathes*) and I felt like life was draining from me. I had kept myself in my room for the whole 2 days, with the exam on the morning of the third day, and my cousin from down under arrived on the second day, so I felt quite bad for neglecting him then.

The paper turned out easier than expected (or was I too pissed tired to realise its difficulty??) and after lunch at home, I accompanied my cousin to Vivo and Orchard to do some shopping. I hate shopping in Singapore cause it's so expensive, well maybe I can discount the 'so' and go with just 'expensive', but hanging out with my cousin gives me a good excuse to visit Orchard and Vivo. Otherwise I would just avoid those places.

Met a JC friend Weiye at Topshop Wisma, and he told me that some of the JC classmates are thinking of having a gathering. Nice! Time to meet up with some great friends. I don't know why, but friends for me come and go...they don't really stay, so each period of my life is spent with different groups of people. I hope to meet with upper secondary classmates too. Good times those were.

Alright, done with the nice stuff, time to do some complaining.

First, though exam's over, there is still that shitty FYP report to be done. My experiments are more or less completed, less some characterisation. I really don't know how to go about starting it; the lack of knowledge and drive to do it is really great, so I have no idea when I'll start for real.

Second, it's about customer service. I recently (abt 2weeks ago) bought a new canon camera (really love this camera, smaller than the previous one I had, has all the features of its predecessor plus more, and costs less). But the purchasing experience really sucked, like, big time yall! It was at this camera store in Holland V. I shall not name it, but if there's only one electronics store in Holland V, that is it. The salespeople there, if they are even qualified to be called that, are damn unprofessional and seriously makes me wanna just set fire to their pants. It's like, I wanted to take a look at a camera, and alrite, he took it out from the box and showed it to me. Then I saw another one that looks quite like the one I'm holding, and requested that I see that one too. He then just took the one that I was holding and placed it back in the box, and placed the box back on the shelf, before bringing out the other one. I was quite surprised he did that because I did not say I am done with that model that I was holding, hmmm...strike one.

I was really impressed with the first camera that I was looking at (the model I eventually bought) because it had a wide range of functions and it's small! I didn't know it can get this small. All hail technology! (Incidentally my last paper is processing of microelectronics and so I shouldn't be this surprised but I rarely apply what I learn in class =P) Anywayz, the next camera that he showed me turned out to be really huge so I was like, "I'm sorry can I see that one again because this one is really bulky". Like, hah! make trouble for yourself only! So he did the same routine of switching the cameras. Then I wanted to test the camera (it uses 2 AA batteries). And he told me I can't be doing that. The reason? "Oh I don't have any test kit for this camera ah sir" and I was like, "doesn't this camera uses only AA batteries?" "Oh sorry I don't have any opened batteries" hmmm...and I do see them selling AA batteries. So, how hard is it to open a pack to let me test the camera functions? Strike two...

So seeing that he was reluctant to let me test, I thought I'd just ask him the capability of the camera. And you would think that he would know the camera functions right?

I asked him if the camera would auto adjust the exposure during the recording of a video (cause my older camera couldn't do that, so I can't record from the dark place to a bright place, and vice versa as it will result in overexposure and underex, respectively) but he just shot a straight, "let me tell you, digital camera like these, video recording is rubbish ok? So no need to talk about exposure or anything like that. Camera like these good for only photos". I was thinking like, f*ck man, I asked you a specific question CCB, don't be telling me what I didn't ask you for! So it was like, ok fine, you are a smart ass right? I'll ask you some questions about the still photo-taking capabilities then. "How long can the shutter open for?" He starts to fumble frantically, looking around the box, looking around the camera for an answer (this is just the essence of an open book exam: you can have all the printed materials you want to bring, but you can never find the answers to the questions asked) and sheepishly said "I don't know man, this one I don't know man" Not quite the smart ass you were huh? Strike three...(strike 3 means fail liao)

I was bent on testing that camera, so I asked him again for the batteries, and he started fumbling through the stuff in his store, while mumbling "I don't have opened batteries la" Then my dad came up with a great line to play him in his own game, "You just open a pack of batteries la, and I'll buy it from you" Yeah that's right, make him feel guilty for such stinginess. He finally opened a two battery pack and let me test the camera. He didn't charge us for the batteries in the end.

The camera was really inexpensive, about 70bucks off the prices of major distribution outlets. That is why my dad brought us there. Seriously, my parents are thrifty, so they don't mind that idiot's shit; as for me, I'd rather let people who gives good customer service earn my money, and I don't mind paying more because I think these people should be rewarded. If it wasn't for parent's presence in the store I would've just walked out. I should also add that my sis bought a Lumix from them too, and the combined cost of both cams cost only about 500+ bucks.

I noticed though, they were all smiles and really patient when it comes to the blond haired foreigners. I have no comments on this.

The Big E's Looming to Destroy...Yet Again

2007-11-20T07:55:00.000-08:00

I'm thinking like, hey, what's new this time round? It's still the same ol shit, just a different smell. This is the 2nd last time that I'll be facing it, the demons of every student's academic life, and soon it'll be more ferocious monsters out there in the society. In any case, life is not all fun and play, so these unpleasantness provide a challenge, so we'd all have something to bitch and complain about. Then our saving grace would be our family, relatives and friends. And all ends well at the end of the day.

So I should be studying huh? Yea...but it's such a headache reading those research papers. I'm alleviating this headache by listening to music and watching tv shows every now and then. Seriously, I can't understand why people would want to go for higher education. Some of my post grad friends asked me why I wouldn't want to further my studies, and I'm like, well, studying is seriously no fun...and the renumeration you get is not very attractive either. I guess that's why it's called renumeration. To think I have to endure another 2 years (for masters) and 4 years (for PhD) of studies, is really, what's the word? Unimaginable...

Right now I'm just thinking about that visit to ?aacaan ?oy's place after the exams for some authentic Thai food! *Slurps!* Then that trip to River Kwai in January next year, and to top it all off, my final Work and Travel USA experience which commences next May thank you. But in between that, MORE EXAMS!!!

Sammi Show Mi on the fateful 13 Oct 2007

2007-10-14T03:15:00.000-07:00

Probably this is not gonna be a very favourable review of the show for Sammi, or maybe it was just us, the audience, who are insatiable and not easily satisfied. In any case, I hope to "pen" the observations and experience my friends and I had during the concert.

The one thing that my friend had commented when he did see Sammi's face on the big screen (cause we were too far away to see her face clearly, so we had to rely on the big screen from time to time) was that she is very beautiful. That is true, and her make-up that night was really simple, just really dark eye-lining and foundation...that really could be all that she put on her face that night. And maybe some SK-II prior to the make-up haa. While the simplicity was appreciated, I had sorta hoped that she would assume her chameleon identity ala those concerts in Hong Kong she had previously held. But that night, she was really plain and simple, and that applied to her hair and costumes as well. She had about 5 costume changes. It might seem a lot, but all these costumes weren't any feast for the eyes (except for maybe the second outfit, photo below) because they were all very very plain. Ok, I really was expecting to see flamboyant and bombastic outfits so these were really disappointing.

And one thing I had to complain about was the sound system! There were a few times during her dance that the attached mic failed to work. She had to adjust her mic halfway through her song. Those hand-held mic also gave her some problems during her slow songs. A sudden sharp screech prompted her to move the mic away from her mouth to stop the feedback. This made me recall reading about the sound system problems that Vanessa Mae had when she came for a concert a few years back. It riled her so much that she stormed off the stage. It was a good thing Sammi managed to maintain her composure and continue with the concert in style and in good spirit. She had 2 guests that night, and I had totally no idea that these 2 celebrities were making their appearances. One was our very own Stefanie Sun, and the other was LMF's MC Yan.

Sammi was really high that night. Jean commented that she was acting a lil crazy. Why is that so? She was jamming to the song Lu Guang (Green Light) during her performance with Stefanie Sun. And while Stefanie was composed, Sammi was all out to have fun. Another surprise came during the fast numbers. Those disco/dance/techno medleys of hers got her working out. She looked like she was clubbing instead of holding a concert! But some element of those performance resembled Madonna's performance of 'Music' on her Drowned World Tour.

I have never seen Sammi dance like this before. I had thought her dance moves would hardly make one sweat, but yet she got a total body workout that night. Maybe I didn't see enough of her performance to be comfortable with such a rigourous dance routine. I had to comment though, she has great stamina. She manages to keep her pitch and voice quality even with all those dancing and that's hot.

I have yet to mention that her voice is still in tip top condition. I have to admit, I was a little worried that she might not sound as good after her illness (think Mariah and Whitney), but she still scored with her voice.

I've gotta improve my Cantonese. I can hardly understand her when she starts speaking, and she did a lot of it! I was thinking she should just shut up and sing. I mean, I love her Canto songs, and want her to sing Canto songs instead of her Mandarin ones, and I'm fine with her speaking Canto, but don't talk so much! There was this segment where she was recollecting the events of her life that took place in the last few years, interweaved with some songs at appropriate moments. I didn't understand a word...and quite frankly it was torturous...If I could I would just tell her to shut up and sing...really...

And the most disappointing part of the concert was, THERE WAS NO ENCORE!! But Jean told me the day after the concert that 93.3FM said that the last part of the show was actually the encore. However, JJ saw on Wan Bao and they said that there was no encore because she is sick. So...which source to believe? Which media is reporting the truth and who is covering up for her? I guess it's straight to believe my own eyes, and that was, NO ENCORE.

The feeling straight after the concert was one of sheer disappointment. and many of the audience shared the same sentiment as well. How did I know? I heard the words, "It was a disappointment" all over. However, I felt that it wasn't as bad the next day. I guess it may be just us, the audience, who are insatiable lol, or I've come to terms with reality and be consoled with what I had. In any case, I've made up my mind to watch HK singers' concert in HK in the future, if I ever get to doing it that is...

Why Viewers Shouldn't Vote on American Idol

2007-03-09T16:47:00.000-08:00

Alright this blog has lapsed into a ranting and complaining outlet for me. I guess the usual avenues for complaint really isn't enough for me (and by that I mean friends) so now I go global. It wouldn't reflect well of me to be such a cynic but I promise to pen happy moments in my life as well, just that I think this issue on American Idol deserves more attention at the moment...=P See if you agree with my views.

Result shows on American Idol, as I have mentioned to my friend while I was watching it yesterday (she was out of the house, so I updated her), lately would require parental supervision, lest one faints while watching it. Yes, it can be as exasperating as receiving your A level results and not getting the number of As that you have expected. And if this trend goes on, by the time University comes, there really isn't much excitement when the results come since there really isn't much to be expecting...and this will be the fate of American Idol if the poorer singers are continued to be voted in.

First, I must express disappointment on Alaina being voted off the show before Antonella. In any way one looks at it, Alaina is 110% a better singer and better performer than Antonella. Even if you go down to looks and personality, Alaina is still the winner. Funny thing I noticed when I was watching a youTube post of Alaina's performance of Not Ready to Make Nice by the Dixie Chicks (for I had missed it on Tv). Halfway through her performance the words 'Alainafans.com' flashed across the screen. Not sure if this site exists but those fans would sure to be disappointed cause they would only have 2 videos of her on AmI, discounting those from Hollywood Week and the audition. Not to tease them, cause I share the exact same sentiment, and yes, you can call me an Alaina fan, and I am not ashamed of that. The Result Show on which she was booted was especially difficult to watch because her crying really broke my heart. It actually did. The crying was so hard that she couldn't even sing her song properly for the last time. And all this while Antonella is watching by the side thinking that she herself deserves to be in the top 16.

Why am I so sure that Antonella thought that way? All because of her arguing with Simon Cowell about her singing ability. She has the cheek to say well, everyone is different, "I'm not trying to copy their style and they are not trying to copy me". That may be true, but girl, your style just does not fly on AmI, and you wonder why nobody would want to copy your style eh? And she looks like a piranha when she sings. Yes, all that big teeth of hers jutts out so much from her mouth that they look set to pull you in and then slowly chew you to death, just how she does with her singing. But, I'm glad that in the end, she does not make it to the final 12. That was such a huge relief! I am just sore Alaina did not get to perform another week on AmI.

Talking about the top 12, someone undeserving did make it to the top 12 though. That guy have the most atrocious hairdo and physique to be on Tv. I really don't understand why he was voted into the top 12, but that is another subject altogether.

Goodbye to Saddam

2007-01-01T18:29:00.000-08:00

Saddam was hanged like 2 days ago. Looks like his brother did not draw up a plan and get into prison in time to help him breakout. It would've been quite exciting...

Eragon

2006-12-30T08:46:00.000-08:00

I have friends who already watched the show, and were most disappointed with it. I didn't think I would share their sentiment, because, well, I have a peculiar taste when it comes to movies, and thought would watch and judge it for myself. I was ready to go into the cinema and identify all the good features of the show, and then use it as evidence to convince them that it is a good film. I was really excited about the movie, as others of its genre, namely LOTR and Dragonheart, has each in its prowess awed me into succumbing to the world of fantasy. This show, Eragon, it seems, is a LOTR meets Dragonheart. What a dream come true. What a fantasy geek I am...

So I stepped into JE theater 6 with fac mate and friend WH...

Yea...after the excitement comes disappointment and then frustration. Disappointment that a chance for a good show to impress the world has lost its chance; frustration because I think I can make better out of the film, why am I not given a chance to do so...that sux.

Ok here comes the complaints one by one.

First the lead actor is kinda green. Not physically of course. His acting needs much to be improved upon. Well I don't entirely blame him for not playing the character well enough, because it was the casting directors who gave him the part. I read that although him being totally new to film acting, the directors thought that his face looked the part of Eragon, and hence he got it. If you ask me, I would think that acting ability is an equally crucial factor as with appearance where casting is concerned.

One will have to agree that a big part of the show lies in the dialogue. The conversation between the characters not only moves the story along, but also creates a personality for each of them. In this show, I would so much blame the scriptwriters for penning such abominations. It was trying to liken the speeches to those found in LOTR, but trying too hard to sound all so serious at the same time, causing it to fall flat on its face and just sound lame. It really was very excruciating listening to their conversations which almost would have been intelligent, only if you do not listen carefully to what's being said.

The editing of the video requires much improvement as well. Otherwise, the storyboard was poorly done prior to filming. Or did the director really just followed what was drawn out in the storyboards? Hmmm... The flow of the story was really choppy and rushed. The whole film lasted only 1hr 40min, which is rather short for a film of its nature. If it may be hypothesized that the production crew wishes to shorten the length of the film (for fear of lulling the audience into thinking they are watching another Peter Jackson production), employing the use of a narrator would help explain things and link the different transitions more smoothly. Just think Cate Blanchett in LOTR. I thought that worked to the advantage of the movie. Of course, the script for the narrator must be cleverly written as well, otherwise it would again slap itself on the face.

I love the dragon. Really I do. But it sounding so tame and demure...well, I'm not so sure about that. (Enlighten me on this though, for my perception on this issue can be changed ) When the dragon suddenly grew up by flying through clouds (another shocker) and spoke to Eragon after landing, I was quite unpleasantly surprised to learn that the dragon is female. I wasn't alone in thinking that as WH turned to me and had exactly the same query. Well, we would have known better if we had paid more attention to the opening credits when it read 'and Rachel Weisz as the voice of Saphira'. Clue number one, and a really big one, is Rachel Weisz as the voice over. Second clue, the name Saphira, sounds feminine. But forgive us, really, on not thinking the name might be for a female dragon as the naming of dragons is something we are totally unfamiliar with. Had we better acquainted ourselves with dragons this ignorant outbreak might have been prevented.

Alright, to justify why I think that way, I suppose it's because the dragon is a huge and fearsome creature that growls and snarls and spits fire. It sounding genial at one time and then snarling at the other instance just doesn't sit well with me. On the part about it being female: I was thinking of Draco from Dragonheart when I was watching this film. The voice of Sean Connery worked out well for the part of Draco, and I was kind of hoping the same formula be applied to this show. Apparently it wasn't and I was, as a result, surprised...unpleasantly.

What scares most is knowing Eragon is a trilogy. I seriously doubt it will gather enough supporters for part 2 and 3. I know I won't be watching the rest of the instalments after such a disappointing start. I will just let the others watch it first, and tell me if there are any improvements, if any of my friends are even going to watch it that is...

Where There Are Rodents

2006-05-31T05:49:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I would see small furry things scurrying around in the park vicinity or at the places we walk in around town. I get kinda irritated because I'm used to seeing such things as rats. But over here, things are greatly different. Those critters are not annoying rats, but squrriels or even cuter, chipmunks. Never did I once see a rat or mouse snoop for food. Us Singaporeans, especially the girls, well, many times only the girls, gush when a squrriel or chipmunk is seen.

I remember one chipmunk got trapped in a pipe hole behind Rugrats Toonpike (a road safety kinda ride for the kids). We tried to get it out by using wood or sticks and getting it to climb onto it, but it always slipped on the wood (cause it was too smooth) and it would let go when we tried to lift the stick. Then it started to rain. Cynthia, Dawn and I decided to just throw in a few sticks to make a ladder for the little critter, and left the rest to him. Thank goodness it was gone when we returned a few hours later. By then the rain had stopped.

Trash TV

2006-05-26T21:05:00.000-07:00

Oh I simply love the cable here! So much trash tv going on and so much selection! There are the usual fare that we are familiar with, like Desperate Housewives, Lost, and American Idol, just to name a few, and a lot more other tv series that are re-runs, like Friends, and those that never reach Singapore. There are also countless talkshows! Even Tyra Banks has a talkshow, goodness, I didn't even know that. Tony Denza has a talkshow too...but that was kinda lame; boxer-turned-comic actor-turned-talkshow host. Wasn't nice at all. The one that I will always love is the Jerry Springer show. That show is the epitome of trash tv! People just get on the show to talk about their personal lives, get pissed off with each other, and then just start fighting or slang each other off. Audiences also get to ask stupid questions. So much language was filtered that I couldn't make out what had transpired.

Having no tv here is definitely devastating. We felt the effect when we moved into the dorms. There is NO tv in the rooms, and it just sucks big time!! Good thing this American friend of ours, Austin, brought a tv from home. A 29 inch for heaven's sake!!! Good thing too, so now I may watch my usual fare of Family Guy, King of the Hill and American Dad when I am bored. Of course, that would mean I have to go to his room. He brought his electric guitar and classical guitar as well, and sometimes we would look up guitar tabs and play and sing along.

Noticed that McDonalds does not advertise as often as the other fastfood restaurants. Think it might be the less popular choice here. There are a whole range of other fastfood restaurants here, like Arby's, Wendy's, BurgerKing, Denny's, Friendly's, Hardee's (we suspect this may be Carl's Jr since the star logo resembles that of Carl's Jr in Singapore very much), Subway, etc...too many to name. Also, McDonalds have a 1 dollar menu, which means you can either get a sundae, or a Mcchicken, or cheeseburger, or 2 apple pies, and a few other choices, for only a dollar! How great is that???

Oh, they also advertise their pharmaceutical products on tv here too. But they also include a disclaimer for the customers to check with their physicians before using their products. So so different. Late night tv, meaning after 12am, is when the cuss words become uncensored, and the dirty tv unleashed. I didn't personally see one, but KJ had the luck to. Wahaha trash tv!!

A Blessing In Disguise???

2006-05-26T07:10:00.000-07:00

Got really pissed off this one rainy Sunday when a few of us internationals from Nick Central were laid off for the day. Some of my colleagues started at 9.55am, while I started at 11.00am. After working about 2hrs each, we were told to go home because the number of guests in the park was less than 4000, and the number of kids coming to Nick Central were really few. We were told that a bus will be coming to pick us up at 1.00pm, but none came. We asked Human Resource, and they didn't know anything about it. We found out later that they have cancelled the bus because, at first they had wanted to lay off all the internationals, but if they had done that, some rides would be really understaffed, hence the number of internationals laid off would be only about 6 for the day. The next bus to come pick us up would be at 9.15pm. That means we have a long long long way to go!

Ok, so we were pissed at this treatment, but guess what? It's a Sunday (the crowd is usually less than on a Saturday), and it's cold and raining, and the number of guests in the park is less than 4000. That means we get to go on the rides, and not have to queue too long for it! So, Hypersonic and Volcano, here we come! I'm also happy because I get to go on the rides with my good friend MY, and fac mate WH too. This was going to be a sweet deal.

So we went on the usual level 4 and below rides. Then it came time to go on the Volcano.....WOW! The grandeur of the ride already intimidates; being ON the ride would certainly kill. But I guess it wouldn't be that bad, it's a roller coaster afterall. I guess...

Volcano: Canyon Blaster. At the load-up station, we were strapped in by our friend MS, who happened to be on shift at that period of time. When the 'all clear' sign was given, the brakes were released and the hanging coaster started out slowly and made a turn. Somewhere along the turn, it shot up to 72mph in 3 seconds unexpectedly, and I was holding on and screaming at the same time. The coaster just kept on going. It made a big round turn and suddenly we went into a tunnel, and after that, the coaster shot vertically upwards, taking us with it. Before I know it, we were shot from the top of the Volcano, with the park in full view. The screams continued, and the spiralling kept on going, with our legs dangling in the air. After a few revolutions around the 'volcano', the ride came to a stop, leaving everyone of us breathless. I simply loved it! The only complaint that I have is that the structure of the coaster does not look appealing. It could have been made much more attractive. But the ride itself was fantastic! The funny thing was I met C and WY when we left the ride, and they told me my sister was looking for me. When my sister finally arrived, I told them we have to go on Volcano again, this time with my sister, C and WY. A second helping was a totally new experience for me, and I must say, no matter how many times I have been on the ride, I would never get bored of it.

After this ride I told them that they would not be thrilled by the other rides, simply because Volcano is already the ultimate ride, on par with Hypersonic. However, top let them experience the other rides, we went on Avalanche and Anaconda, but of course they said that these were definitely not as thrilling. I would've asked them to go for Avalanche first, but the ride was down at that time, so we headed straight for the mean machine.

Then it came time for Hypersonic XLC, my dream ride for the summer. I have seen people go on the ride, and it seemed so damn scary. I wonder if I will make it out alive...WY and C sat out on this one. WY said she needed time to contemplate if she would want to take it. Ling, MY, Les, WH, my sister and I went on it instead. At this point in time, there were already no queue because it was late and raining.

Hypersonic XLC. I had my sister switch places with MY because we promised each other a scream-off. So, when the Hypersonic moved slowly into position, I was telling MY how good a friend she had been, and that might be the last time we would be speaking to each other. MY said that she'll see me on the other side, and I replied that I hope we would end up on the same side...

then the countdown started...

the anticipation was hell...

I knew that I am a person with slow reaction, so I've decided that before we were shot off, I would first start screaming, so that the scream would continue till the coaster is shot off. I kept shouting things like 'I'm scared!' or 'somebody save me!'

Finally...it shot us off.

Other than the white track ahead of me, every other thing was blurred, kinda like we were travelling at light speed. We went up 90 deg vertically and then made a U-turn to go 90 deg downwards. After that everything ended. It was all so sudden. I didn't even remember what the ride upwards was like since my mind was already messed up by the launch. 0 to 80mph in 3 sec...wow...

Maymount Park: Beautiful Serenity

2006-05-18T18:32:00.000-07:00

Maymount Park is like a bontanic garden in the middle of the city. It is such a wonder that such a park can exist in the heart of the city. Other than the flora, there are the fauna. It is like a children's petting zoo where we got to see goats, cows, horses, bull (there was only 1) and other wildlife like foxes and bobcats. The great about it is that it is free! It's so amazing that the good things around here are free, but a donation is suggested. Had quite some fun in the park. There is even a Victorian house on the top of the hill and it looks wonderful.

Paramount King's Dominion: The Park

2006-05-18T06:58:00.000-07:00

Ok, so our training starts only on Sunday (US time). The system here works like this: orientation are conducted on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Trainings are held every Tuesdays, Thursday and Sundays. I didn't know that, otherwise I would've chosen a better date to arrive. So, given this situation, we have our Saturday free. And since we already got our security cards made, we are allowed to enjoy the facilities of the park. The rest of this entry is going to be me going on and on about how fun the rides are...wahahaha!

It's a Saturday, yes, and that means the park will be crowded. And it was crowded! Another reason for the crowd was the weather. The weather was exceptionally good, meaning it was sunny. I got quite a tan while queuing for the rides, but it was an ugly one since I was wearing a t-shirt. Tan line you know. On most other days, it would be raining. And when it rained, our breath would fog and the wind merciless...

We started with a mild ride: the Nickelodeon Space Surfer. It was those rides that just spins round and round, ascends and descends. We were able to control the height to which it would rise, only to a bit. Mind you, this is a kids ride, but KJ and I were scared to death because it rose to quite a height, and it was spinning at quite a fast speed. It got me rather dizzy when the whole thing ended. But, it's all good.

Then we went on to Rebel Yell, a wooden roller coaster. From what we could see, the Rebel Yell seemed like a fast (in terms of the duration that we would spend on the ride) ride and it seemed pretty harmless. I went on the first carriage and when it went over the top of the lift and revealed the rest of the track, I was like "Oh my God!!!" because the track is very long and scary. The initial dip is almost vertical, and I could hardly see the track when we were going down (this should tell you how steep it was). Following that was a series of ups and downs bent on flinging me out of the coaster. I tried to raise my hand up but it wasn't a good idea; wooden roller coasters, as I discover, are very jerky. If you don't hold on tight, you are going to lose your place, literally. So, as much as I wanted to raise my hand in the air and scream, I could only hold on tight and scream.

Rebel Yell was our first wooden coaster. Subsequently came Hurler and Grizzly. Hurler did not make that much of an impression on me, but the Grizzly did. It is the first wooden coaster of King's Dominion, and trust me, it was the most violent. My glasses almost fell off when it bumped me from side to side. The thing that separates the Grizzly from Rebel Yell were the violent twist and turns of the Grizzly, and you definitely have to hold on tight for this one. Definitely. Up till this day, I have been on the Grizzly 3 times and still loving it. Oh, I forgot to add that the unique thing about Rebel Yell is that 2 coasters simultaneously run together; one forward and one backwards. I've only been on the backwards coaster once because I didn't really like it, since I wasn't able to see where I was going. I am not the type to close my eyes during a ride so I'd prefer to see where I'm going. It adds to the fun of it all.

Right now, I am just reviewing the rides that we went on, in no chronological order, because at this time I have already forgotten the sequence in which we rode.

Ricochet, a mild steel roller coaster that has multiple twists and turns, but the twist and turns are sudden and it seems to throw you off the coaster ala Panasonic of Downtown East, except this is an outdoor ride. I suspect that's how the little girls were flung out of their seats, oops! It took a few screams from me so I would recommend it.

Tomd Raider: Firefall. This ride is kinda like the Cadbury Inverter of Downtown East. It spins the people like nobody's business and I tell you, if the restraints are not working well, I dunno how far one will be flung off to. The cool thing about this ride is the fire and the spurts of water that accompanies the ride. I dunno how to descride to you guys lah but I will just show you the video when I get back. It is a very exciting ride, KJ had a headache when he got off. "Hahaha!" says he when he saw my entry.

Shockwave. This is a standing coaster. Yes, we are standing on the coaster. And, there is a 360 deg loop. Wow! But, the truth is, it didn't really feel any different from the other coasters since there was support, and it just felt like I was seated. But the thing was, when we (my sis, her fren and me; KJ and WL at this point in time has gotten too tired of the rides) went on this ride, it was evening time and the temperature dips at this time of day. When the lift brought us up to the peak, the winds were freezing, and I was wearing only a t-shirt and a 3/4. But when we went down that drop and go up the 360 deg, all that just cold just went right out the window. It was a great experience, but not that thrilling.

Anaconda. This should be the longest coaster in the park. It is built over the lake, and one part of the ride brings the passengers through the underwater tunnel and then back up again. Oh wow, for this ride, I couldn't scream long enough because the drop was so lengthy! There is a corkscrew at the ending part of the ride. Overall, I am impressed with this ride, that is, until I rode on the Volcano and Hypersonic XLC. I will review these rides next time since I rode them on a later date. Basically, we all agreed that after being on Volcano and Hypersonic, all the others pale in comparison. That is why these 2 have a rating of 5. All the others have a rating of 4 and below.

Yup yup, so that is about all for the day. We also went on a few (maybe only about 2?) other kiddy rides, but the main thrill rides were about it.

Orientation: Getting Assimilated to the Paramount Culture

2006-05-14T10:53:00.000-07:00

Ok, so the third day of our stay here was our orientation. Erin, the woman who has been liaising with us, turned out to be only 21 years of age, and she is attractive! At least that's what I think...but the rest agreed with me. If she goes for a diet, she could be a supermodel, and this is only my opinion.

So she told all about the rules and regulations of the park, then there comes the introduction to the city of Richmond, which she was very enthusiastic, because she lives in Richmond and she does a lot of hanging out. It made us very excited about the Downtown area, but that wasn't the case when we went there the day before. Maybe it was just that we got to the wrong places.

She told us that she will be taking us on a tour of the park. That got me very excited, but it turns out she only wanted to show us the important parts of the park which is only near the entrance. I was so so so disappointed! I saw the mega coaster structures in the distance and was so hyped up with the possibility of taking a closer look. I guess it will have to wait till next time then.

Other than the "tour" of the park, the rest of the time was spent in the training room, where we just listened to Erin talk. It was so so so tiring and boring. If I had the chance I would run out of the room.

And it was so sucky because they told us the next training would be held only on Sunday, so taht means we got the next day (Saturday) off. And since we would already have our security passes, we would be able to play in the park for free. That made me happy.

A First Look At A Real River

2006-05-13T11:55:00.000-07:00

Yes, it was like 'wow!' when I saw the James River. It was vast, and had some rapids along the way. Wild ducks were flying here and there. Thought we could spear one and have it for dinner...

We went to the James River on the second day after our arrival. We had to take a bus down to the central of the city of Richmond in order to get to the James River. One thing about the bus system here is that no one knows anything about it. We had such a hard time trying to figure out which direction to go and what time the bus will come and have we already missed the bus. Really makes me appreciate the transportation infrastructure in Singapore. But the weather here is DAMN GOOD! I love it absolutely! I don't break a sweat even on hot days (ok, it's not the hot season yet but there were some warm days). When we asked for directions some of the people were really friendly, but some of them are just damn anal about talking to us.

So after seeing the James River, we crossed it to go over to Belle Isle. It used to be this area where the military would store their ammo and things there. Apprently many died there too due to dysentry and some other diseases. It was a depressing place but we did have fun taking pictures along the way, but it is strictly for the history and nature lovers. All others would find it far from civilisation and boring.

Walking around sure works up and appetite. We then went around looking for food, and came to this outlet called Quiznos Sub or something like that. There was an African-American guy and a white lady smoking at the outside. Apperently they work there as they were wearing the uniform. The guy saw us and wanted to get us to eat at their outlet, and came out with menus (those give away kind) and said, "Come eat, come eat". Hmmm...I'm thinking he doesn't know that we speak English. But after we asked them a few questions and after seeing that we can speak English, he spoke normally again.

The food portions here are really big as I soon come to realise and believe. The burgers are about 1.5 times bigger than their Singapore counter parts. Even the pizza slices are huge. They certainly astound me.

After "lunch" (we had lunch at about 3.00pm that day), we went around Downtown Richmond. We were just walking around aimlessly. There wasn't much to see there as it was mostly restaurants and residentials and abandoned buildings. Took a few pictures but it was just normal stuff, nothing too exciting.

Leavin' Touchdown and Livin'

2006-05-05T13:34:00.000-07:00

Whewwwww!!!! Yah we reached Richmond like 2 days ago, but it's only today that we got to see the park, and it's also not much of the park, only the front park of it, the "more important part" of the park since we are having our orientation today. Was a little bit disappointed because I did not get to see the roller coasters that I so love...

Okies, will break this entry into a few parts because it's been quite a few days and many things have happened.

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Leavin' On A Jet Plane

Met KJ and WL in Changi Airport Terminal 1 at 6am in the morning. We were very very tired because we had slept only a little the previous night. I slept only about 4hrs and it is NOT enough. So we checked-in and hung around for a bit and then it was time to board the plane. The first thing KJ said to me when we got on the plane was that there were screens on the back of the seats, and immediately we got very excited since it means that there will be in-flight entertainment. Not too shabby...and the whole plane (interior) is purplish...hmmm...

Once we got settled we whipped out the "entertainment guide" and the system is called Dynasty ala SIA's KrisWorld. Movies that were available includes relatively new releases such as Brokeback Mountain, Chronicles of Narnia, Memoirs of a Geisha, Casanova, blah blah and some older ones such as Erin Brockevich (did I get her last name correct?). This is so good for me since I did not watch most of the shows that they were playing, and immediately we knew we weren't going to sleep for the long plane trip to the States.

So, when we were about 10000ft in the air, the entertainment system was activated, and KJ, WL and I jumped to Chronicles of Narnia. My sis watched Brokeback. I quite like Narnia, and I think I will write another entry to comment on that show.

But that was about it. After watching the show I got really really really tired and started exploring other options. The games were really lame, like those played by primary school kids. But there was this language game, and I chose Spanish out of German, French, Mandarin, and a few others that I cannot remember. I have now completely forgotten all the words I learnt from that game....=P

Started watching a little of Big Momma's House 2 but I was so tired that the jokes did not get to me, or maybe it wasn't even funny to begin with. You decide. It soon came time to descend to Taipei when I was only 1/3 into the show.

So we had to wait for about 3hrs over in Taipei. We took the skytrain from T2 to T1 since that is where we have to board the plane to the US. We were, at the same time, looking for places to have some food, and when we first got to T1, we couldn't find it, so we went back to T2 cause we thought the food outlets were in T2, at maybe some parts that we did not search. But oh my goodness...we asked this air stewardess (she was really unfriendly, used a very rude tone to talk to us, and she thinks she is wonderful because she can speak a little English. FYI, she's Taiwanese. We concluded we should have spoken English to her all the way and see how she funbles and laugh at her.) and this time, there were hundreds of people trying to get to T1. Such suayness on the first leg of our trip; getting to our intended destination comfortably, but no, we had to go back and then squeeze with a thousand people to get back to the same place.

The second suayness came when we boarded the plane to the plane to the US. Again, it was KJ who brought to my attention that there weren't any screens on the backs of the seats. ARGH!!!! All 4 of us got really really pissed with that plane. It would be a 10 odd hours ride of absolute boredom!!! Oh goodness...we were really pissed...Another thing was that on this flight, there were a lot of weird middle aged Taiwanese? Chinese? Vietnamese? Other Asian races? that don't seem to get the point of not unfastening their seat belts when the 'fasten seat belt' sign is on and not getting up and move when the plane is about to move/ the plane is still moving. At the time when we are already so pissed off all these people are still acting their antics and making things worse. But it was funny to see the crew scream at them, and gthe crew can really do some screaming.

We did a stopover at Anchorage, Alaska. It was unexpected for us because we did not know that was part of the itinerary. I was really excited because I saw glaciers and ice mountains. It was a pity that we did not get a lot of time to go around the small airport to take pictures; the ice mountains were really magnificent. My sister and I just took pictures from within the airport, and I hope it would turn out ok (I hadn't uploaded the pictures yet so I can't judge from the small LCD screen). We also went through the customs there, but it was really weird because we thought we would do that only in New York. But since Alaska is officially a part of the States now and we had entered the US, it kinda make sense to go through the customs there.

So we boarded the same plane but with a new batch of airline crew serving us. There was this air steward who was serving WL's aisle and he had an incredibly high voice and is quite gu niang. WL was absolutely buay tahan and I just kept laughing. But this air steward, despite all his gu niangness, had a rather fierce tone when he spoke. It was especially entertaining to see him shout at those miscreants who refuses to sit down. Then KJ and I would just give a pissed off look and say, "what is wrong with all thses people..." There were of course variations of expression and vulgarities were employed every now and then.

Oh I must mention the turbulence. There was such an unbelieveable amount of turbulence that the plane just tumbled up and down and left to right. There were approximately 4 waves of turbulence, each lasting about 20min. The funny thing was that the crew knew when to serve dinner; immediately after one wave of turbulence ended, they served us dinner, and immediately after they were done and cleaned up, the turbulence started again. It was exciting to have the turbulence since we were very bored, at the same time it made the whole affair very scary...what if something bad happens? .............

It was difficult to sleep with all the rockings and the noise (there were kids on board and yes, they were screaming. Plus, those middle-aged miscreants do not talk to each other; they scream at each other! Remains me of my neighbour), but we finally did so since we were very very tired. The publice entertainment system showed 1 episode of Zhong Yi Da Ge Da, King Kong, Hoodwinked (a very funny animated movie ala Shrek) among other things.

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Touchdown JKF Airport

Okies, so we waiting quite long for our luggages to appear. Quite fun pulling the luggages off the conveyor belt. Some of the passengers had enormous baggages that they themselves were unable to handle. A few even looked like they brought their whole family's property with them. Maybe they are seeking asylum in US. Again there were a lot of screaming and shoutings, the usual miscreants found guilty.

So, once I exited the luggages claim area a Hispanic male approached me. No prizes for guessing but yes, he works for a taxi company. He quickly assigned us to a taxi and we just took it. I asked the assigned taxi driver for the rate, but he wanted us to get to his car first before showing it to me. It wasn't a car actually, but a rover, so it was able to accomodate all our luggages. Then after he loaded all our stuff and we were settled in, he showed me that we had to pay $35 PER PERSON!!! It was such a rip-off and I was shocked. I had read that the journey should only cost $45 per taxi; this was completely ridiculous. I looked to the others and ask thme if they would want to continue. My sis and KJ said just take, so ok lor, just take. We were all very tired to try to seek alternatives. While driving from the airport to Port Authority bus terminal, the driver showed us the different things that is New York. He is hispanic, so I couldn't understand him sometimes. He saw that I had a camera in my hands, so he told me that taking pictures inside of moving vehicles are prohibited in the US. What a weird law!! It seems after 9-11 the govt are all paranoid and do funny things just to prevent the terriorists from striking again. But what difference does it make if I got down and took the pictures on foot? Hmmm....

Saw a glimpse of Times Square, and wow! It was so filled with lights, looked a little like Las Vegas. Then we came to Port Authority. We just paid him the bare minimum. I knew that tips are customary, but since he ripped us off more than he should, I decided to give him no tips. That decision came really easy.

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Inside Port Authority

As much as the name sounds impressive, that's all that there is to be impressed about. The insed is very old and dilapidated. I had thought that Jurong East interchange is old, but this is worse. But at least the whole area is air-conditioned. Not like we need it (cause it was freezing in NYC) but it's just a mention.

So we bought our Greyhound bus tickets. It was weird because they needed our ID (IC as we are accustomed to) to purchase the tickets. So I wanted to tell her (a African-American woman) my IC number, but then she said, "I need to see it". And after processing, she asked, "you mean you guys memorise your ID?" to which I replied, "yah". Then she said, "I dun remember my ID" and her colleague said, "I dun even know mine". So funny...

After purchasing the tickets we had about an hour to spare before we needed to board the bus, so we sat down at some area, on the floor. After a long while later, after we took turns to explore the area (there was this 24hrs mart that was lit, but there was no one inside, and the glass doors were locked too, but it said 24hrs. Hmm...funny) this African-American (AA) shouted at us from a distance, "Hey y'all yellow people," then came closer and said, "you guys gotta slide cause this place is closing soon" so we were like, "oh ok thanks". Seeing that we could speak English, he softened up a bit and asked,"You guys taking the bus or something?" so like, yah we are, "so just wait at the bus terminal alright?".

I concluded that they may sound and look fierce, but they are actually very friendly. It's just that we misunderstood their tone. While my sis and I were exploring the area, a middle-aged AA saw us, and he glanced at us a few times before asking in a rather stern tone, "what y'all looking for?" and I said, "oh we're just looking ard" and he just said, "oh". So I gather he really wants to help, just that the cultural difference made it sound to us like he was interrogating.

While waiting in line for the bus there was this man whom was really helpful (ok, most of them are damn helpful lah can?). I started chatting with him nd asked him about the transport system in NYC. Turns out he is there for frequent business trips and actually lives in Washington DC area. He told me that there are like a million other types of transport systems in NYC, so it's good since I would be able to make plans then when we are visiting after our program and not get ripped off again. I also asked him about what's there to see in the DC area, and he suggested all the museums. THEY ARE ALL FREE ADMISSION! Well, at least most of them are. I noticed he did not mention the new Holocaust museum, so I enquired. He told me to not waste my time with that, same with the White House and the Lincoln Memorial. I had thought he is a Jew by his appearance but it isn't apparently so with his reaction.

While on the bus, we weren't able to get a good night's sleep too because just right behind where my sis and I were sitting there was this young blond and supposedly her boyfriend. The problem is, she has some kind of cough and she kept coughing like she was about to puke blood or something. I was very worried that her germs will engulf my sis and I and make us sick since it sounded like she projected her cough to the front. Then at one point she kept wheezing and sobbing and saying that she can't breathe. Too bad I did not have any cough drops with me or I would have offered her some. Not that I am kind, but hopefully it will give me a peaceful night =P. Ok lah, I also sympathise since I had been in that situation before, but I think I at least know how to control and deal with it.

So we rode and rode and monotonously came to Richmond, Virgnia. Thank Heavens. This is where we are getting ripped off a second time. I told one taxi driver that we want to get to WEST Broad Street, and he quoted me a fare of $20. Then when we got on he asked, "EAST Broad Street?" I said, "no, WEST Broad Street". Little did I know that he intended to rip us off. When we reached the hotel, he said we need to pay another $35. Bloody hell! To hell with him and his family. But the receptionist at the hotel was a very nice middle-aged lady named Deborah. She introduced us this very cheap pizza buffet restaurant called Cici's Pizza. The 4 of us were really excited when we saw the spread. We stayed for about 2hrs, like how I usually do at buffets in Singapore. KJ and WL were surprised at how much my sister can consume.

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Howl's Moving Castle

2006-05-01T01:47:00.000-07:00

Ok, ok, so check it out:

This movie is kinda weird; is that typical of all animes? Now I understand why I don't enjoy watching animes. The reason why I watched this one (is it even considered anime? what constitutes an anime anyway?) is only because it is dubbed in English, and by some big stars too. Christian Bale (Howl) and Billy Crystal (Calxifer) were among the voice overs. So I thought I'd give it a try.

Firstly, Howl is a wizard, and I thought he is some powerful wizard. But somewhere in the show he got seriously upset when Sophie (the "resident cleaning lady" in his "moving castle") mixed up the potions in his bathroom when she was cleaning it out. Turns out those potions were hair dyes and because they were mixed up his hair colour came out wrong (turned his hair red instead of keeping it blond). Then he threw a hissy fit and started melting. Like, don't he know his own potions?? Well...don't sound very wizard-like to me...imagine Gandalf behaving like that...quite scary isn't it, changing hair colour and throwing hissy fits and all?

Secondly, the moving "castle" is not a castle; it is rather some machinery that looks quite revolting. The title gave me the feeling that it would be something like a castle on a cloud (think Les Miserables), but it turned out to be so depressing...

The appearance of the castle is not the only depressing thing (the whole show is quite dark and depressing). They were apparantly in some kind of war: there were the use of very repulsive looking battleships by the different countries and then there were wizards and witches. Then there was this very powerful sorceress Madam Sullivan (she met with Sophie and said that she was Howl's teacher, but I couldn't be sure because everything in the show twisted and turned until I dunno what is the story about and who's who already) who wanted to try to destroy Howl, or it so appears. But at the end, when Howl and Sophie ended up together, Sullivan said something like it was time to end the war, and she called the war idiotic, which baffles me because it seems like she agreed to going to war in the first place. What has Howl got to do with the war anyway? Didn't quite get it...

There were many other things that I did not comprehend, and I beseech those who have seen
and understood the movie to please comment and enlighten me!! I would be so grateful...I would have to watch it again sometime 3 months later.

The only thing that I like was that the ending was of a typical happy ending; everybody found what they were looking for and were contented. Hmm...guess that should be enough for anyone right?

House Of Wax

2006-04-29T09:34:00.000-07:00

Just finished watching this movie (yah yah, I know its a movie from a long long time ago). Wow...sure is gruesome, and quite unbelievable too. The whole freakin house is made of wax, literally! Liked the ending part when the whole house started melting under the heat of the fire, was so dramatic.

The story (for those of you who did not watch) is about a twin breaking down people's car off the interstate, getting them to go to their 'town', which was basically a small town made of waxed humans, for assistance with their automobile. The twins then kill, or sometimes they leave their victims alive, and waxes them; covering them from head to toe in wax. Ermm...very freaky, but it's refreshing, and I have to say, that quite a f*cked up way to die. It's a remake, so it was a story conjured up a long time ago, like 1950s, or something like that?

One thing I didn't like was that Paris Hilton's character died in the show, and quite ungracefully too. Speared through the head, right smack center of the forehead. Good aiming by the freak-of-the-twin killer, oh yah I must mention that he threw it 2 cars away. Bulls-eye. Hmm...Paris would've been a beautiful sculpture...

Ok, gotta watch some Simpsons now, make my mood lighter a bit, or else it will be difficult to sleep later.

CN2125 Wang Chi Hwa Tong Yen Wah

2006-04-27T03:04:00.000-07:00

Had this paper today, felt so surreal. It felt like I was in a dream, one that I woke up and forgot about. But it would be like a premonition, one that I did not concern myself with, which later I'll find myself wallowing in pain and disappointment when the time comes for the truth to surface. Somehow I'm numb to the craziness, so it did not matter much that I lack the knowledge. Already it has been too much of a burden; I am glad it will be over soon.

Well anyway, it's only 5 days more to my Virginia trip. A 3 months vacation, and I had previously thought time will pass fast. But while I was studying for one of the exams I thought about time I was to spend in the States, and it occured to me that it was going to be a 3 months trip! Wow...felt kind of intimidated by the sheer length of time. I took comfort however, in the fact that I have my friends with me, and my sister as well. It's going to be 3 crazy months, an experience of a lifetime.

I mean, come on, be a ride operator?? When do you get a chance like that? After graduation it will be work work work...and then more boring work...office politics, back-stabbing to get that promotion that you desire, forming alliances, cutting people off...blah blah...

Of course this chance did not come easy. The greatest hurdle was the $3000++ we had to pay just to get ourselves there, and speaking of it still makes my heart ache.

Twister

2006-04-25T01:20:00.000-07:00

It wasn't twister as much as I would like to call it, it came almost as bad as Katrina. Whoops! Didn't purposely name it after such a catastrophe but really it was just as bad, only difference is that it affected the mind. The effect of the damage done will stick for a while, at least maybe until I get to Virginia. CN2116...Mission Impossible.

There is an eighties band called Katrina and the Waves, had a hit song called 'Walking on Sunshine'. If only people had taken the band name more seriously...

In the midst of the Storm

2006-04-22T05:48:00.000-07:00

Test test, test test, ahem...yah exams ongoing right now, and er...I just finished watching an epsiode of Family Guy, right after an episode of American Dad, yah...I'm pretty screwed for the coming papers.

But anyway, decided to create this site so that all you people can see what I, as well as Kee Jun and Wellian, are up to in Virginia. Will post photos occassionally, but it's gonna be tougher than just typing so, depends on available equipment I guess...

Oh and if you guys have any questions about anything in America, please post on the comments section, then I (or we) will check it out and make a comment on it. =)