seeing!=believing

It's time for a New Year Resolution \@@/

2012-01-02T17:36:00.002+08:00

Time flies... it has been 1 year since i am a lawfully wedded wife... hehe... Looking back at what i've accomplished last year....

1. Passed Grade 8 theory with distinction

2. Took ATCL piano performance

3. Resigned and be a full time music teacher

You might not think of it as an accomplishment but for me, they are. I finally get to work at my own time - I get to decide what time to go to work, what time to finish work. I get to decide my salary... It feels real good to be on my own but it's more stressful than to work with other people. Well, there's always two sides to a coin. I guess i'm able to make do with it...

So, for 2012... I plan to....

1. Lose weight >.< (it has always been my resolution coz i'm always unable to achieve it)

2. Pass AMusTCL

3. Sit for LTCL

i guess, that this year resolution is pretty much the same as last year's... at least it's a good thing. I'm not that fickle minded anymore. Wishing everyone a Happy New Year!!!

Pissed with Maxis

2011-09-23T14:06:00.005+08:00

I know i've been missing lately... ever since i resigned, that's coz i'm adapting to my new life + no internet access @ home. However, i'm blogging today coz i'm really pissed off with Maxis.

Here goes the story,

I've subscribed to maxis data plan coz it comes with the contract for HTC Wildfire. On 19th Sept 2pm, i called in maxis center to ask when my contract ends coz i would like to unsubscribe to the data plan. Shahril - the PIC told me it ends on 15 Sept and i'm not bound to any contract anymore. So i told him i would like to unsubscribe to my internet data plan. He gladly unsubscribed it for me. One day later, my phone was barred. My unbilled amount is RM302++.... I was shocked. Not knowing what happen, i called Maxis customer service again, this time an Indian man attended to my call. Subra, if i'm not mistaken. He told me he is unable to check my bill but he could help unbar my call until my bill is ready. I waited to 1 day, but my phone is still being barred. On 21st Sept, I called them again. A gal name Preme attended to my call. The same answer was given, i have to wait for my bill to be ready before anything can be done. This time i told her to unbar me coz i've made partial payment to Maxis. She unbarred me 30 minutes later.

The worst part happens when i receive my bill. Maxis charge my internet data usage for RM280+++. I called them and the customer service told me i am charged so because of usage after 19th Sept - when i first call them to unsubscribe to my internet data plan. I told her i did not use the mobile internet after calling the center and she told me that i have to request for itemised bill before any action can be taken. So now, i will have to pay an extra RM5 for the bill to check on what actually happen to have caused such huge amount charged on to me.

All in all, no one is here to aid consumer and also to educate them on their rights. Today, i am being misbilled of RM250++, if I do not take action about it, when will this situation ends? Who will stand up for consumers? What can we do?

Just feeling helpless....

Last Day @ WorK

2011-06-03T08:53:00.002+08:00

Yet another Last day @ work....

two months have passes by... fast? Not really but not too slow either. I have been contemplating with myself this two months, sometimes regretting my decision but sometimes, can't wait for this day to come. It's finally here - 3rd June 2011....

The end of something marks the beginning of something else. I hope I will be able to embark my future journey with happiness + hope. A new beginning that will enable me to find myself, that will enable me to find a purpose in life, a new beginning that permits more time for my family + friends.

As for the end of the previous journey, I'm really glad to be able to meet some good colleagues cum friends. Ppl who taught me, who bullied me, who joked with me, who shared their experience with me. Being at work is not easy - but ppl will grow only when there are hiccups in life.

it's the ups and downs in life that made one complete

Relieved

2011-04-06T08:39:00.003+08:00

I've finally submitted the letter. That took a lot of courage coz it definitely means i will no longer have a stable income. But who-the-heck gives a damn bout it. $ is important but youth and time is more important than than. I refuse to sell my youth to $, hence i choose to resign and pursue my dream. Being freelance takes a lot of courage too, knowing that income is not stable and projects might not come continuously but at least, you can choose which project to take and set your own standard of dealing with things. I've realised, I'm not $ minded but $ conscious. I want to earn just enough to get by and do what i love to do. After all, life's short, it might just pass you by in a blink of an eye. Why get yourself commited and hopeless? I remember Mr. Thum said, fly like an albatross, not a sparrow. I wish to be free - to lead the life i want, to spend the time with whoever i want. Time should not be bought coz it is priceless....

Two quotes i find interesting and true...

“Time is free, but it's priceless. You can't own it, but you can use it. You can't keep it, but you can spend it. Once you've lost it you can never get it back.”

“Find something you love to do and you'll never have to work a day in your life”

Both by Harvey Mackay. So, there are people who thinks like me - i'm not an outcast~~

March Updates

2011-03-25T11:27:00.003+08:00

Been constantly busy at - I'm not sure what either.

Work is ok, normal reading and designing softwares - similar to what i did during my final year the only exception being i have to wake up early to reach office by 8.20am to have my stupid tag scanned at the stupid scanner.

Marriage is also ok, except that my hubby had to go for business trip for 12 days.... 12 days without him (T.T)

Music is not-so-ok, well, besides the 8.20 - 6pm at office, my extra time are spent on music. practising piano and violin. With 3 choirs in hand, 14 students and newly formed band I'm having a hard time juggling them. Not to mention preparing for my AT this year.

Always hoping I'm able to let go of something. Something which I will not regret after giving up. After excluding marriage from the list, I'm left with Work and Music. It's always like this, since Uni... Engineer or Musician?

Travel 12 countries with 0 bag

2011-01-26T16:19:00.003+08:00

I came across this blog today, well - it's kinda old story and i'm kinda outdated but i'm glad i found this news. It is simply Awesome~!

can you imagine travelling to somewhere without any bag? I can't even come to work without my bag, where i have my "rubbish" in. From nail clipper to theory handbook. Rolf Potts actually did it! here's a link to the official site of this event: No Baggage Challenge

I simply cut and paste these stuffs he mentioned on his site in case i might need it on my next travel~

1. Manage the journey from your mobile phone.
A smartphone could well be the most important tool for a baggage-less traveler. It can store your boarding passes and other important documents, make phone calls from virtually anywhere in the world (with a swappable SIM card) and even act as a miniature blogging tool.
I recommend an iPhone with a foldable Bluetooth keyboard, which allows you to fit your mobile office inside a single jacket pocket. The iPhone can be loaded with a series of applications to replace everyday day items carried on a normal trip. The Kindle app lets you leave behind bulky books, and Genius Scan lets you use you iPhone’s camera as a makeshift scanner so you can quickly save receipts and email them to yourself on the fly. Wikihood utilizes the phone’s GPS to serve location-relevant Wikipedia articles, which is a unique and interesting alternative to a guidebook. Throw in your favorite currency converter, phrase book, and flight tracker, and you’ve got a single device in your pocket more powerful than its dead-weight paper counterparts.
Some recommedations:TripTracker by PageOnce Lonely Planet series of phrase books (multiple links depending on language)

2. Keep your footwear simple and practical.
With no bags, the only shoes you’re going to want to bring is whatever you’re wearing from day to day. I’m traveling with a pair of Blundstone boots I bought in Australia in 2006. I’ve worn these boots all over the world the past four years, from Paris to Ethiopia to the Falkland Islands, and they’ve served me great. They work for hiking in remote environments, yet they’re easy to slip off and on at airport security.
Some travelers might prefer Chaco or Teva sandals (if nothing else to save packing socks) — and I won’t fault them for that — but my Blundstones look nice enough that they will get me into places where sandals might seem too informal. You are on your feet constantly when you travel, of course, so whichever footwear you choose to bring (be it sandals or boots or running shoes), make sure you aim for comfort, simplicity, and durability.
(Note from Tim: I opt for darker-colored Keen Newport Bison Leather Sandals. If you use black or dark socks, since they have closed toes, you can easily get into restaurants or even pass for business casual if you tuck the tightening strings in.)

3. Buy or borrow certain items as you go.
An old vagabonding adage goes, “Pack twice the money and half the gear.”
The same notion applies to no-luggage travel — even if you’re only packing a tenth of the gear. If a journey takes you to a beautiful beach region, odds are you can buy rubber flip-flop sandals there for a few dollars. If a given city is rainy, cheap umbrellas should be in plentiful supply — and if you get sick, the world is full of pharmacies (many of which are better-suited to cure local ailments that whatever medicine you might have packed).
Should you travel your way into cold weather, thrift stores are a good place to buy a warm jacket (which can be given way to a needy person or left in a hostel swap-box when you leave). You can also borrow things from other travelers along the way. You don’t want to be obnoxious about this, of course, but most travelers don’t mind sharing a spot of toothpaste or a couple of aspirin, and asking for these kinds of things can be a great way to strike up a conversation at the hostel or on the hiking trail.

4. Be disciplined and strategic with what you choose to bring along.Packing light can be enough of a challenge when you have a small backpack, let alone when you have to keep all your gear in your pockets. This in mind, don’t bring anything you’re not going to use every day.
Nail clippers can be borrowed along the way; rain ponchos can be purchased on rainy days. I left my razor out of the equation (it was better to let my beard grow and then get a hard razor shave in Morocco), and before the trip I cut my hair so short I won’t ever need shampoo. Any big-box retailer should have bins of tiny deodorants and collapsible toothbrushes to keep your toiletries micro-sized. Camping stores will sell 3-ounce snap-top storage bottles that work well for toting concentrated laundry detergent or multipurpose liquid soap. Err on the side of minimalism; you can buy or borrow items along the way.

5. Wear travel gear with strategically located pockets.If you travel without any bags, this means whatever gear you bring will have to fit in your pockets. My journey is co-sponsored by ScotteVest, an Idaho-based sportswear company that specializes in travel clothing with multiple pockets.
Most of my gear fits into the ScotteVest Tropical Jacket, which has 18 pockets of differing sizes. A majority of these pockets are accessed from the inside, which (a) is a nice deterrent against pickpockets, and (b) saves me the “dork factor” of looking like I’m traveling the world dressed like a confused trout fisherman. I can carry a majority of my gear in this jacket without looking ridiculous — plus the sleeves zip off, so I usually wear it as a vest. I’m also wearing a pair of Ultimate Cargo Pants from ScotteVest, though I’ve packed light enough that I rarely have to use the large cargo pockets. ScotteVest isn’t the only company that makes travel gear with utility pockets, of course; your local camping outfitter or travel-specialty store should provide you multiple gear options, and you can choose the clothing that best fits your needs.

6. Use a minimal rotation of clothing.
Essentially, you’ll want to travel with little more than the clothes on your back — but you will want to bring a few spare clothing items to keep things fresh and ensure you won’t get too stinky. Given that I wear cargo pants, a travel vest, socks, underwear, and a short-sleeved t-shirt under a long-sleeved shirt on a typical day of my trip, I keep one spare t-shirt, two extra pairs of socks, and two extra pairs of underwear in my pockets.
Each night I wash the day’s socks, underwear and t-shirt in the hotel/hostel sink, and these items are dry enough to pack by morning. I’ve been washing the cargo pants about once a week (and I have yet to wash the travel vest). Some people take short no-luggage trips with even fewer clothes, but my arrangement isn’t bulky and ensures that I always have a rotation of fresh socks, underwear and t-shirts.
(Note from Tim: Here what I pack for an uber-light trip, in this example less than 10 pounds total. ExOfficio underwear are a lifesaver.)

7. Utilize the postal system for souvenirs and extra gear

With airlines baggage fees quickly spiraling upward, many travelers these days are saving money and hassle by mailing certain items to one or more destinations along their itinerary.
If, say, you’re traveling from warm climates into cold climates, you can mail your warm clothing to the first cool destination (just make a pre-arrangement with the hotel you’ll be staying at in that location). On that same token, traveling without luggage doesn’t mean you have to forgo buying souvenirs — if just means you won’t be able to carry them. To solve this problem, just hit the local post office and mail that Balinese mask or Latvian amber or Syrian silk home.
This is actually a strategy that can be employed when you’re traveling with luggage: The souvenirs you find along the way might be nice, but there’s no sense in dragging them along with you. It’s worth the expense to ship them.

Remember: Travel is about the experience, not what you bring with you.

In the end, that remember that going without luggage and packing ultra-light need not be an extreme act. It isn’t a contest, or a rite of travel-superiority: It’s just a great way to eliminate distractions and concentrate on the experience of the journey itself.
Freed of baggage, there’s little to forget or lose on the road. You don’t have to stow anything, guard anything, or wait for anything (aside from the occasional train or bus): You can just throw yourself into the adventure and make the most of your travels.

Reader's Digest Freebies

2011-01-26T09:14:00.004+08:00

It might be too late, but better be late than never!

Reader's Digest Jan 2011 edition is giving out 2011 diary + address book for free!!

During the 1st week of Jan 2011, I went shopping at Popular and saw the reader's digest. tempted to buy but it's tagged at RM15. Just before i was to leave, my husband saw there's free gift with the book. It also happen that I am shopping for a 2011 diary as well. What a coincident~ Without hesitation, hubby took the book and paid at the cashier. So this is how the calender look like, not bad for a start in 2011...

New cleanser set

2011-01-26T08:53:00.003+08:00

I've received my new cleanser set from my colleague today! This also mark the first product i bought from Amway. To be honest, I never like direct sales and think it's not a proper way to generate income but I can't deprive its product. Hence, I am giving Artistry cleanser a try. Hope that the Artistry Essentials Hydrating System will not kill my final dime of faith in Direct Sales. This set's retail price is RM 288, my colleague gave me another 10% discount. :) Here are pictures of my new cleanser set - pray that it'll work our for my skin coz the previous product i used, Origins (brightening) does not suit my skin, causing irritations and redness...

Mari Kita Membaca Campaign

2011-01-24T14:42:00.003+08:00

Recently, been kinda confused. Of what I really love doing and how to live in reality. Been surfing the net, doin bits of work, practising a lot. Happen to look into my bookmarks and found the education malaysia blog. Their recent post is about this campaign - Mari Kita Membaca. This campaign basically raise funds to send books to orang asli village. Here's a short introduction about this campaign from the blog :

We started just a few months ago and in a nutshell, we fundraise to send
books to orang asli villages which already have community learning centers. We
screen and select villages that we think will benefit the most out of getting
the books and after consultation with local teachers, we help them buy the books
that would assist them in their curriculum. It's not a very big operation, but
we do what we can. We have a pretty quick turnover of our cash, and 100% of it
goes towards buying the books and any delivery expenses.

So, I've posted bout World Vision on adopting a child, this time around i would love to share this meningful cause to readers out there. For more info, visit their site here.

Come to think of it, I yearn to be volunteers - though I will not get a luxurious life but at least my life will be a purposeful one. Worth pondering~

2 Consecutive Rejections in 2 years

2011-01-19T16:01:00.003+08:00

I've graduated in 2009, since then, I've received 2 rejections from 2 of my applications. 1st was in 2010, when i applied for CEMACUBE scholarship - to be honest, until now i do not know the reason i was rejected. 2nd was last Monday by the Ministry of Education. That too, I do not know the reason for rejection.

What does it imply? What is it that God wants me to do? If God has His plan laid out, does it mean that I'm no longer fitted to be in the Education industry. Or He has his other plans for me... Whatever it is, one thing for sure - my confidence level has dropped since then.

Is my husband aware of it? Is he being supportive enough? I guess he does, but he don't really understand why I simply can't be who I am now. Why am I yearning for more. Actually, me neither...

KPLI - Result Released

2011-01-17T15:36:00.003+08:00

Finally... the days of waiting are over.

Somehow, it's still not really officially over - we're still left with few hours, presuming those ppl at KPM (Ministry of Education) are going to upload the list by 5pm.

They announced on their site that the result will be released on the 17th January 2011 but no specific time were given. According to forumers from cari, KPM normally uploads the result by 9am or 12pm. But until now, 3.40pm - there's still no news.

I'm getting freaked out. The process of waiting is indeed distress, gruesome, excited, stomach twisting - I'm not sure if there's such word. Nevertheless, i've read on "The monk who sold his Ferrari" that we should enjoy the process, regardless what it takes us to. "Happiness is a journey, not a destination" Isn't that book inspirational?

Why can't they just get the freaking list published~~!!! :P

Finally... it's out - for real. The link is here: http://kpli.moe.gov.my/twr11/index.cfm . Unfortunately, I didn't get it. They rejected my application. Yet another rejection. I've been rejected twice since I've graduated. When will I be able to get what I want - or I do not want enough?

Somehow - I'm grateful that I've been saved from the misery of waiting for something. Made me feel like vomitting. In a way, it's good too. It means I'm able to get pregnant and have Dragon baby next year!

We're all living in a helpless world

2011-01-12T16:42:00.001+08:00

When was the last time you met with an unfortunate event?

My worst experience was this morning. Yesterday evening I received a call from my mum saying that someone has broke into her house while she was not at home. It seems the thieves took all valuable they could find. PC, LCD monitor, jewelery, coins, cash, camcorder, golf bag, shoes, and pots of bonsai! We've calculated, and there weren't much losses. Approximately RM4000.00. The unfortunate part is that we did not realise there's one more very important thing missing during that break in.

The next morning as i woke up, got ready for work - I realise my phone had miss call from my aunt. I called back. Guess what. My mum's car is missing - from her house with the autogate wide open. GOSH. The important thing that was missing and we didn't realise was her car's spare key.

Apparently, the thieves took her spare key and autogate's key. They came back to her house while they were asleep and drove the car away. Mum did not hear her car engine start - most probably they pushed it out and started engine when the car is out from the house's compound.

Immediately my mum went to lodge a police report. Actually, right after her house was broken into, she has called the police and asked if they could come over to have a look. They replied that they will not come to the crime scene unless someone made a police report at the police station. So, my mum was asked to make a trip to the station before they could do anything. My mum was reluctant to go because she was traumatised and didn't want to leave home. I too agreed with her decision as there was nothing much the police could do and my mum needed time to be at home.

After the car was stolen, she went to lodge a report. She told the police what happened, but turned out the report was not written the way it was spoken but my mum didn't bother correcting them because she was simply too sad and shocked. 3 hours later, an officer came to her house. took pictures - when the stuffs has been arranged back to the way it was. Officer blamed my mum for not making a police report earlier.

Then, here I am today, after bringing my mum to my aunt's house to borrow a car. I feel so helpless. What can we do when things are stolen? rely on police to retrieve them back? it took them 3 hours to come to the crime scene. Not to mention they didn't write the report as it was told. One inspector even asked my mum to drop by the Central police station to lodge another report. When my mum asked him why can't she do it today, he replied - he has another case elsewhere. So he can only deal with this case tomorrow.

By tomorrow, everything will be history. Nothing can be retrieved. Hopeless. All this while, we have been a law abiding citizen. We lived by rules, made a proper living. What do we get? Injustice, unfair, and distress. Then why on earth are we still living here? What's the point of living your life anymore when in the end, you will still end up being helpless.

ROM - 1.1.11

2011-01-03T09:30:00.005+08:00

Registry of Marriage? Yes... unbelievable but true - I got engaged on the 1st January 2011, 11am~!

Pics to share:

Contract of Marriage
Our pledge for eternal love

My dad, his mum and the registrar officer

Cytron'ians

MMU'ians

Alvin + Ah Bao

Thanks to those who came for my ROM, we really appreciate your effort and your wishes. We loved those gifts we received. But most of all, we loved your company. without all of you, our ROM will not be as memorable as it is now. Hope all of you had a wonderful time too! Love ya all~~

PS: Thanks Eriko + Nicole for being such good make up artist + photographer!

Life...

2010-12-09T15:34:00.004+08:00

Yes, despite all the complaining going on. Life goes on.

One's Life story usually goes like this;

Preface:
This chapter portrays how you started your life, from your mum's womb - the matrix, into the world. Perhaps, one might talk about how your mum took care of you while you were in it.

PART 1: The first dozen year - Carefree Life
Chapter 1: Awakening.
Here comes the the new born. As white as a piece or paper. So pure, so innocent. Chapter 1 depicts your life as a baby, until the day you start to turn into a mischievous little angel.

Chapter 2: The Toddler.
Yes, this is the time when you start input all you have in your surroundings. Everything seems to be new to you. You are excited, curious to learn everything and anything you can find around you. You start destroying everything you have in hand yet you are still lovable.

Chapter 3: Pre Schooler.
Finally, you got the chance to really learn the proper way. You start going to school, start learning how to speak correctly, count precisely - not that precise though, or even play some instrument. Me? I got to know piano when i was 5. Have been loving it since :)

Chapter 4: Novice.
Welcome to primary school and start spending the first 6 years of preliminary education. You will be exposed to more people, more input, and of course more conflicts in life. You might even start shaping your future now. For me, I thought I would either be a pianist or an athelete. Never thought that I could be the studious type.

PART 2: The next dozen of year - Steering Life
Chapter 5: Intermediate.
How was the first 6 years of your student life? Enjoyable? Can't bear to leave it? Worry not, you will soon come to complete the next 6 years of your student life. In this intermediate stage, all I had was visions and dreams. I dreamt of me playing piano in a concert. I dreamt of me going into the Olympics. I dreamt of being a Doctor as well as a Lawyer. Hmm.. endless sweet dreams. Nevertheless, there are also many life issues faced during this 6 years of secondary school. Towards the end of the 5th year, I hated who I am and can't wait to be an independant adult. This is also the rebellious period of my life.

Chapter 6: Advance.
My dad told me, in order to survive in future, you need to go through another few years studying. Well, I took a heed on his advise, moved on for tertiery education. Guess what, I took up a course which I would never imagine myself doing. Engineering. Perhaps it suited my character, always seeking challenges. Engineering is indeed about challange, solving endless problems. Finally, I graduated.

PART 3: 3rd dozen - Settling Life
Chapter 7: Independance.
What does it feel when you are able to be on your own? I though it would be happy, but i was wrong. It was stress. To be on your own simply means: you have to do everything by yourself and no one will be covering your ass anymore. I moved on - not long though...

Chapter 8: Union.
Once you are independant, you will start feeling helpless - mayb not all but me - for sure. As mentioned earlier, it's time to settle down your life. To continue the rest of the journey.

This is what i can jot down as I'm here at chapter 8. The rest will be updated accordingly if time permits. 1st January 2011 will mark the start of Chapter 8. I hope those who were in my life story to be able to celebrate the start of Chapter 8 with me. Let's reminisce the previous chapters of life...

MALAYSIA

2010-12-08T09:46:00.005+08:00

What is the first thing that comes into your mind when u hear the word Malaysia? For me, it's

1 Malaysia, Rakyat Didahulukan, Pencapaian Diutamakan

I'm so "thankful" that I'm living in this country, a country where

I have to pay 3% interest for study loan - and need lengthy procedure to change the 3% to 1%
My batch of students are being discriminated as those who applied for PTPTN after July 2005 and graduated b4 2010 is unable to convert their loan to scholarship despite graduating with first class honours. FYI, only those who applied after July 2005 and graduated b4 2010 are affected. Why? Is it because those students are not Malaysian? They are not to be "didahulukan"? Or because their "Pencapaian" is not "diutamakan"? Talk about the "1" concept. Does it mean those students are not within the "1"?
Another case is for MOE. Thanks for their transparency in selecting GSTT. How many non-Malays are actually employed as GSTT? Why hasn't anyone ask MOE to publish those data? Are those data unavailable or those data are simply undisclosable?
Recently, I have been facing problems with Maxis. I know that Maxis is a NGO, so I should not put the blame on government. But then again, what happens to consumer rights organization? Aren't they supposed to be aided by the government to help us, users who are being jeapordised by those conglomerates? We have no channels to turn to. Are we suppose to turn to politicians everytime we face this kinda problems? If that's the case, I suppose those politicians or representatives will find that 24 hours a day is no longer sufficient.
Lastly, Insurance agents. It is also during these few months, I met with an incident where I cancelled my policy and was suppose to get some money back from the company. I cancelled it in late February and was told to wait for the cheque to be sent to my company (coz that's the address i gave them). I waited, and, waited. I called her in April, and July. The only response is to WAIT. I waited patiently until December. Supposing the lifetime of a cheque is 6 months, it will be expired even if i receive it now. I called the headquarter, bypass my agent. Guess what, the HQ says that the cheque has been sent out to their branch at Muar and is not invalid as it has expired. So, I will have to wait for another few months before getting my money back. Luckily it was only few hundreds, imagine if i was few hundred thousands, who can i ask for for those interest i could've earned. Insurance company? Insurance agent? Once again, no channel to complain.

Seriously, I'm starting to feel tired. Tired of Malaysia's policy. Of Malaysian's attitude. Of Malaysia's government. I love Malaysia, that was why I decided to work here instead of going abroad. Look at what has happened to me. If there's anyone to blame, I should blame on me for being patriotism.

Happy Birthday Grandma!!!

2010-11-15T11:41:00.005+08:00

Happy Birthday to you,
Happy Birthday to you,
Happy Birthyday to AMA,
Happy Birthday to you...

Dear Ama,

If only you were around, I will be on leave today, I will cook you red egg + mi sua, buy you a low sugar cake and bring you to hypermarkets for you to do your shopping

If only you were around, I will stay with you yesterday night, to chat with you before you sleep, to drink the milo you made for me before i sleep

If only you were around, I will be the most filial grandchild you have, to bring you for check-ups, to buy you medicine you need so you don't have to walk those extra miles

If only you were around, I will make sure your days which are numbered will be meningful, your past sufferings will be worthwhile and every sacrifices you made be priceless

I am sorry to not be able to do all those when you were around. Ever since the day you went away, I've been living my life with regrets, with shadows from the past, with things I didn't do and will never be able to do.

The grieving period, people say can be as short as 1 month but it too can be as long as a lifetime. I grieve because you meant a lot to me, I am here today, for you gave me the courage, you were a good exampler, you showed me a glimpse of my future. Thank you and you will always be remembered even after generations. This will be the greatest achievement in your life.

HaPPY 81 years old, AMA!

MTest, KPLI - PART 2

2010-11-15T10:56:00.005+08:00

Continuation from Part 1,

We stopped at the scenario during examination. I presume you have got some idea on the exam day itself. Move on to the test formats and some question which i remember, getting ambigious d.. :P

I was in the 3rd column, so my 1st paper was the English paper. Not bad for a start, at least it doesn't dry up my brain juice fast. But the questions were harder then what I did in the reference book. Especially the part where we have to choose the correct sentence to replace the wrong ones. The sentences were long and lengthy. The 1st part where we have to identify the incorrect word was quite easy, most are easy to identify. Whilst the last part, also about the same standard as in the reference book. All in all, you can rely on the reference book for this English test, except that you might have to read faster during the exam as there are more words and sentences.

Paper 2 was the Quantitative paper. I almost couldn't finish it on time. Spent too much time calculating some questions on areas. Some basic stuffs, Algebra, Quadratic Equation, Perimeter, Volumes. Don't worry about some huge formula which you have to memorise, coz I didn't come across any which i don't remember the formula. A tip is to read the question and answers b4 you start calculating coz some answer can be found without even calculating. There's 3 questions which I seriously have no idea to answer. It was the statistic question. I was given a bar graph, x axis showing number of student which has got text book loan, y-axis showing number of student without the loan. There's number of student written on every bar showing number of student with loan. There were 3 questions based on this graph, at that time, with few minutes left, my only option was to make a wild guess. So i have only 3 wild guesses in that paper.

Next, it's the INSAK paper.135 questions in 30 minutes, it means you'll have to answer them almost spontaneously. I did, and finished all in 20 minutes so I had 10 minutes to do checking. I reached Question 60+ when time's up. during 2nd checking, i realised i made 2 mistake. So i think it's better to finish them up faster and go for a 2nd round check. By the way, you cannot rely on reference book for this section. The answer in the reference book is fixed; ie. A for yes and B for no. But in the real test, they will list out A and B options. A can sometimes be: Saya akan menolongnya ke kuliah B. Saya akan menasihatinya supaya mengambil cuti. So, it demands more time for you to read. Try to read ASAP.

4th paper is the Verbal paper. all this while, when i was studying MTest, the only paper which i have doubt with myself is the Verbal Paper. It's simply so hard to tackle. The malay vocabs were way too hard for me to understand. However, in the real test, the vocab part was quite easy - in the sense, they ask words like Sedut - Hembus, Nasi - Saya Makan... all those easy word, leaving the hard part which is to define the relationship and choose the correct answer. At least it gives me a chance to think instead of choose blindly. The fill in the blank was also quite ok, with answers like mengesah, mengecam, mengenal pasti. Lastly, the Pemahaman - I have to say the text was long, 1.5 pages. About handphone. first question was to add a sentence, which they gave into the appropriate place so that it makes sense. Next, to find some isi tersirat - quite hard, last question was to find the main purpose of this text.

Lastly... the most challenging paper - especially when it's all in Malay - Analytical. Gosh, imagine reading out a situation in Malay and solving them. For me, I will have to translate them to either English or Chinese before they make sense. Imagine how much time i'll have to spend on it. There were 4 scenarios, 16 questions. and Last 4 questions bout other stuffs. There were 2 questions about inductive and deductive statement. I totally forgot wat's an inductive statement >.< I remember the last question was, in Malay but i remember them in English.

There are lots of kid with kutu on their hair during hot season. The kutu grows a lot during the hot season.

Find from Sentences A-D which match the logic of the sentence above.
A. I forgot what
B. forgot.
C. There are lots of KPLI candidates. The publisher needs to publish more book to meet the demands.
D. The beautiful beaches attracts lots of tourist during summer. Those states with beautiful beaches are filled with tourist during summer.

As for the questions with scenario, 1st scenario was there are 3 animals whose names are, A, B, and C; 3 colours, Perang, Putih and Hitam; 3 sizes, L, L and S; 3 kinds of animals, Kambing, Kucing and Arnab.
They gave few criterias to fulfil,
If Black animal, it must be Small
If kucing is L, Cici is Perang.
Kambing is Black.

Then you are asked to find answers with the conditions. The first q was which animal is Cici is?
There are few conditions which i forgot, but basically, this question is solvable.

Next scenario, bout a school which has 10 buildings and how they are linked tgt. Just draw out the buildings and arrow connecting them and you can get the answers. Quite easy for me so it will too for you :)

The following scene is quite confusing. About testing of cats, 1 technician can test 1 cat at a time. 1 technician working. 5 days a week. 2 sessions per day. Monday morning no lab. Then they have given 6 cats. A - F. listed down few criterias and asked few q in connection to the criterias. It's very confusing coz the cats are interchangable. To be honest, I guessed all 3 questions here.

Next, another confusing but making sense question. Family Relationship. Says that A is B's daughter-in-law, C is B's Brother... and so on.. I dun really remember. But remember to make the relationship flexible. They will add in more people or remove some in the questions.

I presume that's all I have to share. If you want to know more, leave a comment here and I will reply if my memory still serves me well.

That's all for MTest 2010, for January 2011 intake. All the best in case you too are on your way to be an educator/educationist - my friend and I once argued on this.

MTest, KPLI - PART 1

2010-11-15T10:24:00.007+08:00

Recently, I have been googling on MTest - Malaysian Teacher Selection Test and my efforts was in vain. In fact not many info was provided for this, is it coz it's against the law for anyone to post tips on it? Or ppl were just too lazy or selfish to share. Anyway, it was a good experience. I really wonder is the MTest result valid, if that's the case, then why aren't all the teachers full of dedication or smart, in the sense, has certain level of intelligence. I'm not criticising teachers, but merely stating my 5 cents worth.

Enough of the introduction, about MTest. Candidates were informed 5 days prior to MTest, which gives them only 5 days to prepare. Assuming most candidates are working adult, they only have 5-6 hours/day, 25 hours to really prepare for this exam. Mtest consists of 5 components:

1. INSAK
2. English
3. Quantitative
4. Verbal
5. Analytical

All questions are in Malay, except for English of course. If my mind still works well, Quantitative is bilingual (Malay and English).

Before going into those questions, I think it's better to share my experience so that those who plan to take MTest will have a better picture and will not be as blur I were then.

Reach the location - which is a secondary school at 8.30am. Some people were queuing up for I don't know what so I just continue the line. When i reach the front, then only i realise the queue was for candidates to look at few pieces of A4 paper to look for your name, IC and sit number. Mine was Room D, number 17. After I got my seat number, i proceed to the class room, Room D.. Now, where is Room D? There were no indications except for a paper pasted at the classroom door. I will have to look at every door then, great way to waste your time!

Here it is, 2nd floor, 2nd room. Signed my name at a piece of paper at the door since everyone else did the same. I suppose we should just follow the crowd. Waited outside the classroom because everyone else was there. At about 8.50am, few school teachers walked into the room with a clock and OMR papers. We were instructed to sit at the designated place, place our pencil box on the floor, only stationaries, IC and exam slip on the desk - reminiscing the past~~

The teacher distributed the blank OMR paper, please do not simply change the paper coz there are serial number on it and it is distributed in accordance to the number. On top of that, do not write anything unless asked. Time is crucial here.

An additional note on the OMR paper, it's 2-sided, 1st page has 160 or so column for A or B, there's also the word INSAK written on top. I think it's self explanatory. This page is for you to shade your INSAK answers. Next page, there are 4 parts, Quantitative, Analytical, English and Verbal - forgot the sequence though. Thus, do remember to shade in the right column!

Bout 8.50am, the teacher distributed the booklet. There are 5 column and 6 rows of seat in the classroom. Every column will be distributed with different question book. Still unclear? A clearer illustration, Column 1 will be given Booklet A, which is INSAK; Column 2, Quantitative; Column 3, English; Column 4, Analytical; Column 5, Verbal. Every question book has to be answered in 30 minutes and the booklets will be rotated. Hence, DO NOT write anything on the book unless you want your neighbour to know all your answers!

In the next 2 hours and 30 minutes, all you have to do is to concentrate answering the questions, the invigilator has a lot to talk... Simply ignore her if you want to finish those questions in a section in 30 minutes.

Wanna know about the format and questions? Read on Part 2...

Violin Performance

2010-10-26T14:09:00.002+08:00

Something to share~

Registration of Marriage

2010-10-26T12:28:00.002+08:00

I haven't been updating my post since ages ago, mainly due to lack of idea. Engineers are bored, you see~! However, during these period, been planning to get registered before we get married mid next year. Then, we met with few probs...

1. He is from Kuching, so he went to JPN (Jabatan Pendaftaran Negara) at Kuching and asked how are we supposed to get registered. Their reply is: He has to go to JPN at Kota Samarahan coz his IC address is there, then he has to submit the form there while me, from JB, i will have to submit my form at JB's JPN. aFter 21 days with no objection, we can arrange a date to officially register our marriage.

2. One week later, i went to JB's JPN to asked the same thing - just to double confirm. Turns out that, she said; he has to have his IC's address changed to JB if we want to register here, and vice versa. and I asked if there are any other options, she would say, get married at persatuan, then you don't have to have your address changed.

Now, what exactly does the government want us to do so that we can get our marriage officiated?

Again, It's not that I dun want to get married, I do not know how to get marrried. Thanks to Malaysian Government for employing such good workers~

New Watch

2010-07-02T08:39:00.002+08:00

My dear bought me a new watch~!

suitable for me to teach my students...

coz it is not fragile, not auntie'ish, not very expensive~! doesnt mean i can break it though~~

Here it goes:

CASIO POPTONE LCF-20-9

It's a kinda cool watch, since today's my 1st day using it, i have not much comment. Let's see how it's gonna be in time to come...

thanks DEAR~!

gonna give it another shot

2010-05-31T09:50:00.008+08:00

A second chance is often a must - i believe..

After quitting from my previous engineering job - i thought i would never go back into that boring and mundane life.. but then again, what else to do but that? I'm trained for 4 years for that. what else do i know but that? Tomorrow, will mark another new start of my career. after hesitating for 1 year, accomplishing nothing in a year, it's time to remend what i've done and what i've lost.

lucky to have a supporting lover with me. I'm sure he'll help with my work when i bump into obstacles..

So, wish me all the best for my new job as a Design Engineer - again~!

I wanna be an engineer who is an engineer

2010-03-25T11:18:00.003+08:00

What does the statement above implies?

that I am still as confused as i used to?

I'm outspoken, I can make stone to gold just be describing it. But, I first must believe in it. I have an extraordinary gift, a gift of tongue. I excel in presentations, I crap well, even if my results ain't that well..

This is also something which makes me dislike myself... I talk until I myself do not know what's the truth and what's not. I didn't have the intention to lie, but lie just pop out of nowhere~

Can i say that i hate myself yet i love myself for this gift? How am I able to make use of this gift?

Waves

2010-03-16T16:56:00.002+08:00

Sometimes I feel my life is like a wave... but this wave is continuously striking the sand... My happiness is short-lived, same as my sadness... they locked one another, they bind to each other - when will i get to swim to the middle part of the ocean. But then again, will I get used to peaceful life if i ever get to swim to it?

Tired yet exciting + unpredictable - that's what keeps Diaane going strong.

Yuan, thanks for being the port i can always go back to when i'm tired of swimming...

Fly like an albatross, not a sparrow

2010-03-10T12:16:00.002+08:00

Quoted from Mr. Thum "When you want to fly, first of all, you need to be able to withstand crashes. Next, be an albatross, not a sparrow"..

I asked him why.. he said.. "when one decides one's dream is to fly, then should one's final goal to be soaring above the waves in the open ocean or gliding among crops in a paddy plantation?"

I have dreams.. huge dreams.. but the problem is if those dreams are able to be reality. Or i should do what Yuan told me, alter your dreams accordingly. Do not persist into something you know you cannot achieve. Have I really decided to give up on my dream? If not, are you willing to walk my dream with me, Yuan?

Being in Love

2010-03-04T16:00:00.002+08:00

Hmm...

Not been updating my blog coz busy pat tuo...

I noe it's not an excuse, but it's a REASON~!

Feel weird, seems like you have to start living with someone besides you, with someone in your mind, with someone who cares for you. It's good to not feel alone, but for someone like me, who has been alone for so long... It's kinda weird.. but i'm adapting to it.

Is this what life is all about? The cycle that we can not escape from? What's left is to make the best out of this routine? If that's the case, does it matter anymore what you choose to do and who you choose to be with? Coz in the end, it's all bout working hard towards a happier life.

Better not to think too much, just love and let love just like how we live and let live~

Valentine's approaching

2010-02-10T15:06:00.002+08:00

Hmm...

Valentine's approaching...

I have few friends who have planned a surprise Valentine for their girlfriends.. I feel that they are so sweet :) In fact, I feel glad that I get to contribute something for the success of the surprise...

Today will be the day i deliver flowers to my client's girlfriends and wives.. I have a feeling it's going to be a memorable time. I feel excited coz I look forward the look on their face...

Lastly, wishing everyone a HappY VaLeNTinE!!!

Start Sponsoring a Child!

2010-02-08T14:48:00.002+08:00

I'm happy.. not because i start sponsoring a child once i start working but i've spread the words around and got 2 other friend starts sponsoring.. I think, i'll never feel more happier even if i were to sell off the 50 stalks of roses i'm going to sell this weekend.

Now, 3 kids are able to go to school, learn how to read and has proper food to eat. with merely RM50 a month, that is like 1 meal of Japanese food less from your dinner, and you get to help a kid. The little one, i always say...

It feels really good and YOU too, should start spreading the news around and help out more kids~! RM50 does matter a lot to them...

Hatyai

2010-02-05T14:31:00.006+08:00

I've been to Hatyai last year but never get a chance to post those pics up.. so... here i'm doing it now since i'm kinda free... >.<

Beef Noodle

Chrysanthemum Drink

Mixed Pork Porridge

KoYo - where prawns are caught massively

Some Thai Noodle - look like tang hoon

Chicken rice... cheap + a lot~~

The Beaches + Mermaid of Songkhla

Bak Kut Teh

Kuey Tiaw

Money Tree

Drive Thru Coconut

Seafood Restaurant

Dim Sum

REJECTION

2010-02-05T11:07:00.002+08:00

Rejection... what does this word mean to you?

Sad? Happy? Disappointed?

Feel as if it's the end of the world?

IN fact, all these emotions engulfed me, except for Happy of course.

Yea.. I was rejected the CEMACUBE scholarship. But they offered me a chance to participate the programme. and uncertain if they will waive me the tuition fees... gosh...

I don't like waiting for results.. Neither do i enjoy being rejected. Why must one face so many rejection before gaining approval? My life after graduation has been a series of REJECTION... I'm getting tired of REJECTION. Why can't I not need anyone's approval to do whatever i want to do? Coz i dun have $$$...

MATERIAL WORLD~!

Living Standard in Johor Bahru

2010-02-03T11:00:00.003+08:00

Before i begin, the idea of this blog originated from my friend who's from Kluang but working in Singapore. He told me, his colleague told him that, "There's no standard living in JB." Now.. take some time and ponder over this statement...

1....
2......
3........
4...........
5..............

Normally, outside of JB, who will get to drive luxurious car? For sure, they are those who work as business man, executives or professionals. But in JB....

How bout houses? Who can afford to stay in semi-Detached house or even bangalows? It'll be those i mentioned above. But in JB....

Next, who can afford to eat in high class cafes and restaurant but not those ppl i mentioned? But in JB....

BUT IN JB.... anyone working in Singapore is able to do it. Regardless of their occupation. He/She can be an operator, a janitor, a security, an escort, a construction worker, DVD/CD seller, or even bus driver...

Where is the standard? Is standard being measured by money or measured by one's attitude and behaviour?

This phenomenon is so sickening that everyone who stays in JB are being supported by their relatives to find a job in Singapore. Even a simple OPERATOR in Singapore get paid equivalent to an ENGINEER in JB! NURSES in Singapore draws high pay than a DOCTOR in JB!

Thus, if it's money you're after, why bother going through the education period? Just go and work in Singapore~!

Why didn't the government do anything about it? Or there's nothing they can do. Singapore government should stop all this as it is jeopardizing JB's standard of living. Ppl in JB are slowly getting more materialistic... This is definitely not a good sign.

What can be done to stop this?

For me, the only option is to leave this state for somewhere where engineers are engineers and operators are operators...

Getting used to life?

2010-02-01T13:31:00.002+08:00

Hmm... Good News.. i sticked on to my job for 3.5 months d... it's a good sign.. it can either mean:

1. I love my job
2. I have no other choice
3. I've learned to live with the real world
4. I've given up on life - do whatever they want me to do

Basically, option 1 is very unlikely to happen. Option 2? nah.. which left me with Option 3 and 4...

CNY coming... this year's CNY happens to be Valentine's Day too.. Since my family is not having a reunion this year, I've decided to do something meningful this CNY.. to sell roses and contribute some of the profits to charity... meningful rite? Who wanna join me? or i should say, who wanna support me by buying those roses??? feel free to contact me to place order ya~~ only RM10 per stalk~~

Time for a proper New Year Resolution

2010-01-07T10:10:00.002+08:00

Well.. I noe i'm back-dated... It's already the 7th of January 2010 and I'm only about to list my New Year Resolution...

Basically.. I have not been thinking much about it. Coz there's one thing that has been bothering me.. my weight >.< so.. the 1st thing in my list is...

1. To Lose at least 5kg this year - i noe it's a so typical resolution a gal will make.. but i really mean it.. my weight is killing me. Not because of how ppl look at me. but of how uncomfortable i feel.. I feel i'm a humpty dumpty that will fall anytime from now... In addition, i'll get to save $$ from buying all those tempting food...

What will i want besides losing my weight? hmm....

2. To save enough for me to buy things i like - a Mac Book and a camera.

3. To be able to pursue my studies overseas - Only Biomedical Engineering.

4. To not be emo all the time...

Well.. I guess New YEar resolutions are getting lesser as i age. why? Izzit coz i'm contented? nah.. it's coz i've given up on life.. sad but true...

SK 40C - Starter Kit for PIC uC

2010-01-04T12:35:00.003+08:00

I'm not introducing a new product... but I'm sharing something I've designed. Gosh... never have i imagined i am able to come up with something - although it's only a modification of its predecessor... But then again, it's still something i designed from scratch.

SK40C is the successor of SK40B... for more information on SK40C.. refer to: here

Even though i resigned before SK40C is launched, but I'm still glad that I actually did contributed to my previous employers.. At least, I'm not useless... like how i felt when i decided to leave~

Last Week of the year 2009

2009-12-30T12:10:00.002+08:00

I wonder.. how did my other peers pass through the last week of 2009. 2009 marked a significant year in my life. The most changes which happen in my life are in 2009.

1. I finally graduated - obtained a degree
2. I don't have to walk anymore - I got myself a car
3. I don't have to ask for money anymore - I've started working

But then again, some changes which are bad...

1. I started clubbing - Average of 3 times a month
2. I realise i'm really fickled minded - I changed job twice
3. I lost my identity - though i never had one

All these turning points that happen this year will leave a deep scar in my heart. Besides reflecting on this.. I looked back at my new year resolution i did earlier this year and I found out that I've not fulfilled any.. well except that i passed my violin...

This year, I will post my 2010 resolution and I'm gonna get it all done~! Wait for my RESOLUTION~!

1st Post since New Job

2009-11-12T22:07:00.002+08:00

As all may have known, I've changed my job... yea.. fresh grad, had a job for 3 months, then change... And to a totally different field~~!!

Should i say i'm happy? i ain't really sure. But one thing for sure, I wish I had took the courage and go to Sweden when i had the chance. Regret, I guess is the only thing left...

My work

2009-09-28T11:46:00.005+08:00

Been working for 3 months. so, an update on what i've accomplished during the 3 months, to see if I should continue working~~ no point working if you gain nothing besides money :)

Basically, I will have to design or innovate circuits to aid students, educators, hobbyist in their projects. So far, I have completed 3 projects. A training board for a local institute, a bluetooth development board and a voltage regulator. The first two projects were assigned to me while the last was completed because i'm sick of soldering power supply everytime i need it.

i ain't sure if i'm allowed to display the pics, but then, must show off my regulator :)

the prototype:

the manufactured board:

Basically, i havent solder the components up because no stock~~ can Yee Hwee or Hsien Yun help me get some from the scraps?? ^^

Raya trip to Hat Yai - Alone~~

2009-09-24T21:49:00.002+08:00

From the title, it's kinda obvious that I went to Hat Yai, Thailand, alone last weekend. It has been a great experience to wander alone, but then again, it's such a pity that I do not have any camera~~!! Can't take any pic.. Can't share the views to everyone. But nvm, i'll be there again, soon. This time around, I'll get myself a camera, as suggested by Tek and Chye Hsiang, a compact one will do.. wait till richer then only get a DSLR. Nevertheless, to those who do not get tired reading things i write, there are few things i would like to share, in case you wanna go HatYai, alone :P

Hotel I stayed: Golden Crown. RM2 for tutu ride to get there from the bus stop.

Food: Be prepared, most of the food are hot and spicy, ala Tom Yam~

Places to Visit: I spent most of my time walking around town, which is quite small. The night life is kinda happening, somewhere between Bali and JB town. Get cheap stuff at the market (remember to bargain at least 50%). Temple on top of the mountain (just tell the tutu driver, he'll noe how to get you there).

Things to bring: Cash/Credit card, but i think Cash will be more practical coz no CC machine at market. Change your cash there, better rate (at least in September 2009) Sunblock.. lotsa sunblock. Sunglasses, Hat. It's freaking HOT~~!!

Others: If you are more adventurous, done with HatYai, I would suggest you take a long ride to Songkhla. Nice beach and nice view. Unpolluted and nice people.

Conclusion: I guess i'm in love with Hat Yai, and also the people there. Exactly what I felt when i went Bali... Encourage you guys and gals to make a trip there... I'm sure can ask Mei Shan for more details coz she frequent there :)

Overflowing Ineffable Emotions

2009-09-09T00:40:00.002+08:00

Ain't sure what happen lately, but what i'm sure of is, I have an overwhelming feeling. This feeling engulf me, suffocates me. I feel enclosed, trapped, dominated, cramped... Like, I have no control over myself, my thinking, my actions, my words, my expression...

...I'm breaking apart...
...I'm no longer me...
...I'm LoSt...

Self-Control

2009-09-05T10:45:00.002+08:00

When will one loses her self-control?

When she has no ethics?
When she is indecisive?
When she is in love?

If loving someone makes you feel miserable, then he's not worth loving.

Pixar latest creation: UP

2009-08-16T02:34:00.003+08:00

When i first saw this trailer, I have a hunch that this movie gonna make me cry... And, true indeed.. It made me cry >.<

Up is another production from Pixar, its story evolves around a cranky old man who can't move on with his life. In short, he can't get over the grief he's having. His grief over his wife has gave him the courage to fulfil his promises to her. That is to move their house to Paradise Falls in South America. It sounds impossible, esp when he's 78 now. But he managed to do it, and at the same time, he moved on with his life, getting over with the grieving process.

This plot reminds me so much of my life. My grief over the death of my grandmother. Sometimes I wonder, there are so many things in life which i have to do, because i promised my grandmother i would do it. Those things seem to be impossible, I ain't sure if i can manage it. But then, after watching this movie, there's one thing i'm sure of, I'm still not over with the grieving process. I still can't make myself move on with my life. I need to fulfil my promises to her before i move on with my life. Haih~~ it's gonna be a long long journey~~

Neway, this movie, 'UP' is indeed good. Both thumbs up for it.. Must Watch Movie~~

feeling down

2009-08-06T01:03:00.000+08:00

Ok, in response to Kaizan Boy's comment, i decided not to write anything technical - temporarily :P... but, just to update everyone, i've been feeling down lately.. Been feeling lost, nono.. not about my job, i'm happy that i get to work at Cytron :) but about my personal relationship, which has always been a havoc :P neway, i'll get over it.. please allow another personal advertisement, Bio '09 will be having a gathering on 10 Oct 2009 at A Famosa, Alor Gajah, MElaka.. to those who are interested, please do give me a call.. look forward seeing everyone there~~

The 1,2,3 in interfacing LCD with PIC (Software: Part 1)

2009-07-14T16:45:00.001+08:00

This article is written assuming user has knowledge on hardware part.

There are few basic things which we have to bear in mind.

3 control lines:

Register Select (RS)
Read/Write (R/W)
Enable (E)

Simple instruction set you might need:

Initializing – determine cursor’s position and characteristic.

Table 1: The command control codes

For more information, please refer to http://www.cytron.com.my/viewProduct.php?pid=FjswICgDMQkFLhMRHy0XHVI/kU2m3Az9XsdY/Nuz3hY=&store=

Next, we move on to the next part where we initialize the LCD and start displaying some characters. Hence, to simplify, the objectives of the following step are:

1. Initialize LCD

2. Display few characters

3. Determine location to display the characters

The first step to do is to initialize the LCD. As mentioned earlier, the 3 controls line must be set prior to the initialization. RS is set to ‘0’ so that the LCD is in command mode. Then, set the initialization bits (D7-D0) according to Table 1. The next step is to toggle the E pin. When E bit is being toggled, it enables the chip to accept data. The R/W pin is being connected to ground in this case as we do not require data to be read from the LCD module.

To perform the mentioned steps in details:

// clear screen

rs = 0;

PORTD = 0b00000001;

E = 1;

delay (300);

E = 0;

delay (300);

If you’re on the right track, you should see nothing on your LCD. If there are boxes on the first line, adjust the contrast so that it is semi-visible. This is the step to clear screen (refer to Table 1). Next, we set the cursor’s position and characteristic.

// initialize cursor

PORTD = 0b00001111;

E = 1;
delay (300);

E = 0;

delay (300);

After performing this code, you should be able to see your cursor at the first position of the LCD. The cursor is also blinking and underlined.

(NOTE: Remember to initialize your PORTD as output port and a while loop at the end of the code so that the program does not repeats itself when loaded.)

Now, you are ready to complete the second task, which is to display some characters. The steps to input characters are similar to initializing the LCD, however, they differ by the configuration of RS bit. When displaying characters, the RS must be set to ‘1’ to enable data transfer. As for the characters, they are identified using ASCII code. You can always get the code online. Just google it! In this tutorial, we will use only few characters, they are: ‘A’, ‘B’ and ‘C’.

// function set (refer table 1)

rs = 0;

PORTD = 0b00110100;

E = 1;

delay (300);

E = 0;

delay (300);

// write in characters

rs = 1;

PORTD = 0x41; //’A’

E = 1;

delay (300);

E = 0;

delay (300);

PORTD = 0x42; //’B’

E = 1;

delay (300);

E = 0;

delay (300);

PORTD = 0x43; // ‘C’

E = 1;

delay (300);

E = 0;

delay (300);

Now that you’re equipped with skills to key in characters and initializing the LCD, we can move on to determine the location of the cursor.

To test with the cursor location, we set our LCD into two lines mode, to have a wider range for manipulation.

Next, we will have to set the location we want our cursor to be at. For instance, we want to set the cursor to address 00001000. We set the display address command, 0b10001000.

// set the function (2 lines)

rs = 0;

PORTD = 0x38;

E = 1;

delay (300);

E = 0;

delay (300);

PORTD = 0x88; // move cursor to ninth location

E = 1;

delay (300);

E = 0;

delay (300);

Well, I guess that’s all for the basic of LCD which you need to know before advancing into more sophisticated program.

Bali Trip - Day 2 -- 17 Juni 2009

2009-07-13T13:20:00.004+08:00

The continum of Bali Day 2... As mentioned earlier, ,me, Mei shan, gui yan, jia feng, sam and kk went to Kuta beach for a walk after shopping at Khrisna.. This is the time where we (mostly me) took a lot of pictures of well-built man~~

Well, after the mouth drooling session.. we went to cool ourselves down... we went to MoonTeaSpa for Balinese Spa...~~ no pics though coz we're in a hurry~~ so, that's all for the 2nd day at Bali..

Are adults being realistic or kids are simply surreal?

2009-07-13T11:30:00.002+08:00

Very often, we are exposed to the different kinds of robots, regardless from the media or in reality. This traces back to various movies like Star Wars, Terminator, iRobot, and Transformer. For most adults, these movies are just like the ‘any-other’ movie they watched – ‘money-driven’ movie. On the contrary, kids will get mesmerized by the marvels. This addiction is the goal where movies producer have been longing to achieve. But then again, this raises another question, should all these addictions remain addiction or should it be evolved into hopes and dreams?

Let us take a glimpse back into our childhood. During then, we are exposed to cartoons like Doraemon, where a robotic cat named Doraemon, travels back in time from the 22^nd century to aid a schoolboy, Nobita Nobi. Besides that, we are also being introduced to superheroes, like Batman, Superman, Spiderman and X-Men. Then, in the 20^th century, our kids have numerous accesses to the internet to know more about robots than us. So, where does this evolution lead us to? Does all these fiction serve to drive us to disappointment or it is only for a moment of euphoria?

As I get back to the topic, the future of the robots lies in both adults and kids. What these science-fiction movies gave us is an idea of the immense and boundless potential of the robotic field. What we, as audience are supposed to do is to play a part in the development of this field. Adults should not dampen their kids’ imagination by telling them that those robots are only fictions and will only appear on the big screen. Instead, they should let their kids’ imagination run wild so that in future, what is shown on the big screen will come true in reality. Adults should stop being realistic, allowing their kids a chance to explore into the impossible. After all, Honda started with ‘The Power of Dreams’ and they came up with Asimo.

Once the parents are able to sort these out, how can they aid in supporting their kids in this area?

To be continued…

Intermission

2009-07-07T14:48:00.002+08:00

Oopss... Sorry for the intermission.. I'm aware that I'm supposed to talk about Bali Trip, but then again, i've started working, hence, allow me to interrupt.. Today's my 5th day in Cytron, suppose to be working, but i'm blogging instead. Neway, that's me, blogging whenever and wherever i feel like it.

So, how's working life? how is feels like to be not studying and start working? It feels almost the same for me. Most probably I'm working at a company who provides solutions for students in their projects. Now, I feel like I'm at the level where i aid students who needed help terribly for their projects. at least, i'm here, Cytron's here, there's nothing to worry about. haha~~ i wonder if i can provide solutions for students who do research and experimental based FYP...

Lastly, do visit Cytron's website, www.cytron.com.my for more info.. Who knows, you might find your solution here~~!!

Bali Trip - Day 2 - 17 Juni 2009

2009-06-23T01:07:00.008+08:00

On the second day of our trip, we went to Nusa Dua for water sports~ 5 of us (me, Jia Feng, Gui Yan, Mei Shan, and Kuhan) did diving at USD 42, while others did wakeboarding and parasliding.. here are some pics~~

Next, we went to have Babi Guling.. it isn't that delicious either.. but it's kinda cheap, it costs us Rp 750,000 for 18 pax, including drinks i think...

Soon after that, I went out for a walk to take pics.. and here's wat i saw...

Next, is the shopping session.. went to Krishna, as recommended by Ah Bee's Christine...

By the time we're done with shopping, it's already evening. So we went back to Barong Hotel before going for a spa. However, we didn't go back straight, instead, we went to walk at the kuta beach.. More pics on that...

Bali Trip - Day 1 - 16 Juni 2009

2009-06-22T10:15:00.006+08:00

Went to Bali for our graduation trip.. departed from Senai airport at approximately 2pm.. Reached Bali about 5pm. Our first destination is Uluwatu.. That's a temple by the sea. It's a great place to view sunset but we missed the sunset :( Anyway, we managed to take some beautiful pictures as well..

At the airport~~

at ULUWATU

After visiting Uluwatu, we went to Jimbaran for seafood... I expect it to be delicious.. but then.. the ambient was nice :) romantic for couples on honeymoon~~ By the way, the dinner costs us about 2million Rupiah.. imagine how are we going to eat with 2 million Ringgit :P

Lastly, we went to Barong Hotel at Kuta to stay for the night after an expensive yet dissatisfying dinner..

Legian memorial - Bali Bombing 2002

Finally

2009-05-27T19:20:00.002+08:00

Yea~~!! Congratulation to everyone who has graduated - provided we all pass both papers :P It has been a long and winding journey. Especially 2008-2009. FYP has been a torture to us. But eventually, everything has come to an end and i'm glad we have done it together. We have also celebrated this joy together with out 'Comida Despedida' yesterday at Seoul Garden. I'm glad that everyone could attend the lunch, and later clubbing at Arena. Pictures will be uploaded soon i hope, coz i do not own a proper camera. Thus, have to wait for Gui Yan and Pei Xian to upload it. Meanwhile, all the best for those who are looking for job. Do remember to keep in touch and enjoy the 1st month of worryless~~ :D

Why Men Lie?

2009-04-27T22:11:00.002+08:00

Have you ever got sick of men lying to you? When they look straight into your eyes and lie to you? Honestly speaking, i'm sick of it. I do not know when to trust them, when not to. Hence, i went online, to look for reasons why they would lie. So, here are a few:

For SEX - yes, they'll do anything for sex.
It's in their blood - they love lying - and they don't believe they're really "lying" if they withhold some of the truth.
To avoid conflict
When they wanna avoid something imposed on them
He's not confident of himself
To get out from a mess
When they are busted
When they think their girlfriend / wife is stupid
For other monetary / status gain

I still don't get it.If a man treats you as his good friend, why would he still lie to you? Hmm.. Man.. justify this~~!!

As we walk towards the end...

2009-04-26T04:30:00.002+08:00

Ya.. as we walk towards the end, it means that we are walking towards a new beginning. While many of us worry about what have we done for the past 5 years here, some might start planning for what to do for the new beginning. Which one weights more for you? Is the past important or the future is more important?

For me, both are equally important. Tan Sri Dr. Mahathir once said that history is very important so that we treat it as a lesson learnt and not commit the same mistake again in our life. It is only recently that i realised all my mistakes, it's like i've woke up from a long and winding dream. It might have taken me 5 years to realise that, but at least i'm awake now. By realising my mistake, i am more determined of what i want in future.

Neway, this post is to reminisce the past. The 5 years in MMU, Melaka. Reminisce of what has happened. How many assignments we have done together, how many outings we have had together, how many fights we have got ourselves into, how many gossips we have said... etc... Seems that everything is coming to an end, the end of our campus life. I will not make another list of appreciation, because then, i won't be able to finish off my FYP :P so, to make things short, I've really enjoyed all my 5 years here. I've got the chance to know people from all walks of life, i've shared with them my joy and pain, time and energy, happiness and sadness, stressed and relieved. I believe i'll never encounter this kind of life ever again. So, thank you to all my friends, you people are truly my friend, till the day i step my foot into the wooden rectangular-box...

Violin Performance

2009-04-03T10:21:00.003+08:00

This was taken on April's fool, 2009 at clc A2.. can be considered my 1st time performing violin solo. Shared this vid on youtube and facebook d.. so, i guess it's only appropriate to put it in my blog. Afterall, it's the 1st time :P Enjoy ya~~

Updates

2009-03-23T18:54:00.002+08:00

Wow.. it has been almost 2 months since i last posted something. It wouldn't be accurate if i say i'm busy with FYP coz i've done nothing on it. Then? What's been keeping me up? Well, adjusting life. Thinking what should i do after graduate. Graduation is the end of our life in formal education and also the beginning of our life as working adults. So? Haih.. Responsibilities gonna come soon. Well, some good news, Our convo will be on 9th August 2009. It's a Sunday. I really look forward to it. Can't wait to take the Bio grad pic tgt :) I'm sure gonna miss you guys and gals. Let's spend our last 68 days happily tgt... Till tHen...~~

1st week of scl

2009-02-07T19:35:00.003+08:00

hmm... to be honest, i kinda miss school life. At least i do not have to force myself to wake up early in the morning, don't have to travel 1 hour to go to scl >< nono.. i'm not saying life during training is bad, just that i do not like having any prior plans for the day - yea.. i'm plain LAZY~! Enough bout my feelings, let's talk about what happened during this first week. During the 1st day of class, everyone were talking about graduation trip, then we planned our activity for the week. reunion dinner on Tuesday nite, Karaoke on Thursday noon. Too much.. esp when we were suppose to be listening to the lecturer :P Here are some pictures taken during our nite out after reunion dinner... We went to the eye on malaysia, which has been moved to Melaka...

The Bio-Gals without Gui Yan, Ying Shuang..

Bio-gals + Bio-guys

Everyone except Ah Bee - it shows that he's a good photographer too

I really missed you ppl.. i look forward the last 4 months of our lives in MMU. Cheers~!

Laws of....

2009-01-24T19:37:00.004+08:00

Recently, i came across this site about "How your mind makes sense to the world"... In this site, they discuss about the various laws of the mind. In fact, after reading "The Secret", I've been wondering, is Law of Attraction working well or is it as what it means by "Fake it till you get it!" Sometimes, it's hard to make your subconscious know what you want when you, yourself do not know what you want. Or you dare not want what you want! Then, here comes this site which once again reinstate what "The Secret" has been saying. Feel free to visit the page here. Nevertheless, I've made a summary of what's in there.

Law of Cause and Effect - everything happens for a reason. Whatever you have now is the result of choices you made in the past. Do you think it's true? I think it's true for what has happened to me.

Law of Physicality - your mind influences your physical reaction. I'm sure you'll feel your heart beats faster when you think of those scary things..

Law of Corporality - it states something that your mind can actually prolong your life. If you think positive all the time, the hormone which you secrete, can makes you live longer. I'm sure about that, coz i'm still young. Perhaps it's true..

Law of Visualisation - something about your subconscious is more powerful than knowledge

Law of Expectation - one sentence to wrap this "Whether you think you can, or you think you can't, you're right"

Law of Cognitive Dissonance - 2 opposing ideas cannot occupy your mind the same time. Seriously, i think if that happens, you might need help from psychiatrist.

Law of Reversed Effect - This law is the one which catches my attention. It actually says that, the more you want to do something, the more you can't do it. Because there is the subconscious that resist the change. There is actually something that has been set in your subconscious to protect you from the things or event which you think of as dangerous. This thinking has been accumulated from your previous experience. That is one of the reason why most ppl are reluctant to love and be loved. Perhaps because of their previous experience from it. According to the founder of this law, this thing can be changed if you slowly feed your subconscious with what you want. This process can't be changed abruptly, in fact, the faster you want to change it, the more it will resist the change. In the end, you might collapse with mental disorder :P

Law of Inertia - Once something is in your subconscious, it remains there until it is replaced. This is where stereotyping occurs.

Law of Persistence - This is what happens to most elderly people. They have been living few years with their own thinking, hence it's harder to change their thinking as compared to try changing a child's thinking.

Law of Incrementalism - As long as you practise your thinking, it grows stronger.

All in all, i think that these laws are indeed meningful and one should master them before you want to master your life. Afterall, knowing yourself and your enemy is the first step to success.

Subang Jaya girl scores 10 A1s in O-level exam

2009-01-14T09:21:00.002+08:00

When i saw this headline on The Star today, i was wondering, do they mean SPM as O level, or the O level in Singapore. To my wonder, it's really the O level in Singapore. You can read it here: Subang Jaya girl scores 10A1s in O-level exam . Before i came here for my industrial training, i felt afraid, afraid that i might not be smarter than those who are already here - Sinaporean. People back in Malaysia think highly of Singaporean, my family - not my parents - has this thinking that it would have been better if i had chosen to come to poly or JC after my SPM, and not MMU. They think that it will be better if i had do so. But then again, this article has proven them wrong. We Malaysians are not necessarily worse than Singaporeans. We may be living in a place where the quality of life is lower, PPP is lower, economy is lower, etc. BUT there are still Malaysians who are more intellectual, more hardworking, more humble than Singporeans. Well, all in all, this blog is to remind everyone to not only look on one side of a situation - including myself :P

Ending soon

2009-01-12T08:58:00.002+08:00

Yea.. Our Industrial training is ending soon - this doesn't necessarily means good news. For, the end of something brings something new. The end of Industrial Training = Prepare for report and presentation. Report of >40 pages. Of what you've done for the past 12 weeks. Presentation of 15 minutes. Of what you've done for the past 12 weeks. I don't really feel good about it, in fact, i never felt good about anything. Perhaps all i've been doing for the past 12 weeks were all about MATLAB. I'm afraid i might not have a lot to present. I guess it's up to my 'crapping' skills again.

Other than that, there's something i want to share. In case you or your relative, friends or parents has worked in Singapore before, and also has CPF, and wishes to withdraw them, please take note of the following:

Once you've decided to withdraw all the money you have in your CPF, you are not able to work in Singapore anymore.
You have to be present personally during the withdrawal procedure.
Please allow 3-4 weeks before getting your CPF.
Bring the following while requesting for withdrawal:

Passport
Identity Card - MyKAD
Birth Cert - if you still have
Bank account number (your account in Malaysia)
Bank address

Orchard Christmas - Sweet Christmas '08

2008-12-26T13:31:00.006+08:00

Here are the pics i promised :) I admit i'm not a good photographer, but that's what stepping out is all about.

X'mas Spirit

2008-12-24T09:19:00.004+08:00

Actually, i wanted to share some pics i took at Orchard yesterday nitez, but then again, i left my portable hard disk at office so i didn't get to copy them. I'll do it ASAP, so that you guys can see how freaking many ppl there are at ORchard 2 days prior to Christmas. My Uncle, Cousins and me had to find a place for 2 hours before we can have our dinners. Can you imagine the crowd there? Before we go on further, I just want to share some Christmas songs i find good this Christmas. Enjoy~~

Feliz Navidad

Santa Baby

Lastly,

I would like to share all my love, peace and joy~~ :) Live by Faith pals~~

Luv...

Sultan Iskandar Customs, Immigration and Quarantine Complex

2008-12-17T09:41:00.005+08:00

I'm pretty sure those who are frequent travellers between JB and Singapore are aware of this new building.
It is within sight from City Square and also Pelangi Mall. The authority had to demolish the Bukit Cagar Flat in order to build this complex. Because of that, they had gave out subsidies and also built new homes for the people there. How great sacrifices are made to give way to urban development~~It is indeed a huge building which intends to be shelter for various other organization, including, PLUS, immigration, Customs, Road Transport Authority, KTM, Police, Home Security, Perhilitan, Veterinary, Home Security, Timber Industrial, Agriculture, Health Department, MBJB, and Tourism. - I know it's huge, but can it fit all??? ~ Malaysian Government~

Secondly, this Iskandar Complex started operating yesterday - luckily i am not there to encounter the disastrous opening, what a disgrace to Malaysian. As expected, the situation was chaotic. Several problems were noted and it is indeed a national humiliation. I quote from Wikipedia

"Motorists entering Malaysia from Singapore were greeted by a plague of problems such as long queues, traffic confusion and teething problems. Public transport was also badly affected some commuters when interview said that crossing the causeway took them almost two hours from the original fifteen minutes before the new checkpoint opened. Although the new checkpoint boasts 76 lanes for cars, these 76 lanes split from only 1 lane that enters the complex. This is because there are only 2 lanes entering the complex. Of this two lanes one is for cars and one is fro buses and other vehicles. There is also a lack of signs and policemen causing many motorists to get lost within the complex."

Instead of ceasing the massive traffic, they are exacerbating the situation. Insufficient Police? Custom Officer? My foot.. for the past 1 month, i have been travelling back to JB every Friday night, all i can say is that they have a handful of custom officer but only a few that are working. Talking about that, reminds me of the Automated counter for passport. I wonder what the **** is that for. It is full of bug~ it has not been QC~ yet they still dare put it out for display. OMG~! Another thing which brings out the anger in me is the Causeway. Over here in Singapore, there is a walkway for pedestrians. Then, when we reach this place:

We have to walk on the road - find a way to walk safely in the midst of moving vehicles. IT's so freaking precarious~~!! We still haven't reach the part where we have to cross the road to get to the custom clearance. I really wonder why Malaysian engineers and designers are so ~~ it's ineffable~

I guess that's all for all the complains i have. I wish i could snap some pictures to share with you all my woes :P but then, given the condition of my phone, i doubt if i can do it within this few weeks. Waiting for $$ to get new phone or camera~~ Lastly, i hope the traffic will get better this evening because i'm going back to JB later~~

Trip to Sungai Petani - Sunday noon

2008-12-16T11:37:00.006+08:00

After that heartiest breakfast, we went to get more souvenirs - more in the sense, i've bought some from Penang already.. So, here are everything i've bought and intend to bring back to JB.

All these costs me about RM110~~ Officially bankrupt~!

Then, i took some pics of Mei shan's dad's trophy...

Yea.. He's a golfer.. Quite a good one :)

Lastly... Here's lunch...

Lastly.. The one thing i came all the way from JB to SP for.....

YES!!! BAkZhang~~ it's so tasty.. Mei Shan's mum's Bak Zhang... I brought a dozen of them back to JB.. Feel pai seh.. but then, i can't help being gluttonous... This is Diana - the food lover~~

So, i guess that's the end of everything i've done for the past weekend. Life is so wonderful despite all the bad things - ya, i mean my blurness for answering TOEFL - but then again, food covers up every flaws in my life :) A toast for all the food in the world~!!

Trip to Sungai Petani - Sunday morning

2008-12-15T13:07:00.006+08:00

After a long and satisfying saturday night sleep, we woke up to have tea and dim sum with mei shan's parents. They are so healthy :) Pictures mean a thousand word...

Ham Sap Noodle - not the horny hamsap - but salty and wet

Ma Ti Gao - Chestnut kuih - very sweet

Trip to Sungai Petani - Saturday

2008-12-15T09:45:00.006+08:00

Last weekend, i went to Penang for TOEFL, but then again, why izzit that the title is "Trip to SP"? coz i went to SP after the test :) Basically, i don't wish to talk about TOEFL, it's better to share the joy compared to the sorrow.. haha... Let's give our eyes some treat...

Special man tou with fried seafood in the middle - very yummy and special~

Pandan coconut - very sweet and smells nice

Stir fry tau gua and ku chai - mei shan's mum favourite

Steamed prawn - uncle tendered from the pier

pipa duck - old duck so not nice :(

pork leg - very soft and tender and not oily nor fatty

sizzling egg - special dish

steamed fish - not fresh
Actually, there's a story behind this fish. Uncle (mei shan's dad) tendered a fish (ang zhor) earlier that day. When they brought the fish over to the restaurant, they sliced the fish at its stomach, then~~ a part of the flesh was spoiled. It seems that the fish has cancer =.=''' That's why we ended up eating the fish from the restaurant.

11 of us finished everything served. Left one duck tight - coz it's not nice >.<

After that, we went back to mei shan's house. We reached home at about 10pm, but i couldn't sleep because i was too full~ bloated~!! I could only sleep at about 12am... And all those food cost about RM 150.00.. Cheap? For Singaporean mayb, but it's at a small village, i think they overcharged...

Week 7, Day 4 - Sick Week

2008-12-11T08:56:00.002+08:00

Sick Week? Can there be a proper description for it? I don't know. For all i know, my mind is swirling now. Everything is so blur, so vague. I was sick since Tuesday, i think i've caught a cold. Thus, i didn't come to work yesterday. And i will be on leave tomorrow because i'll be going to Penang for my upcoming TOEFL exam. That makes me coming to work for only 2 days this week. I wonder what to write in my log book. Furthermore, there's nothing much to do this week because my boss is still in US, and Jianbo has sent the JHU project to him. I guess i'll have to work hard for TOEFL this week. Not to mention the GRE next week. omg~ i feel my world is falling apart. Give me strength~~~

Week 6, Day 4 - Governmentless~~

2008-12-04T09:21:00.003+08:00

YEA~~ Governmentless.. or Singaporean always say - 'bo cheng hu'- pronouce it in hokkien. My boss, Bhanu went to US for the RSNA Conference already, together with big boss, Prof Nowinski. But then again, that doesn't mean that i have no work to do. Bhanu left some work for Jianbo to do, so i am to help him with that work. I can't say i'm super sien coz it's kinda fun. I actually get to apply what i learned during the CT class in this project. Amazingly, i kinda regret for not doing my assignment properly. This project is about image segmentation - again - but using CT images. Nice rite? I'm sure all the bio students will be glad to know what they learnt actually come into help. Now, have to really crack my brain reminiscing what Dr. Rosli taught me, or what i read for CT. Seriously, getting an A in that means nothing, coz i am thinking how to apply my knowledge now, and i'm stucked ><

Next, while everyone's busy working, adapting to their working life, i got myself indulged in a book called 'The Secret'. I think it's kinda late for me to read this book - which was so popular months ago- but then again, this book is really worth reading. Highly Recommended~~!! till then, God Bless~~!!

Week 5, Day 4 - Bug, Bug, Where are you???

2008-11-27T09:30:00.002+08:00

Yea.. This whole week is about finding bug. And Yea, i dun have to debug it, all i have to do is to find the bug, then i pass the bug over to the subtle programmer, Jianbo, so that he can debug it. He's so pro at it, coz he's the one who wrote the final part of the program, in only 1 month and 5 days time. Geng rite??? He wrote it using Visual C++, no link to matlab nor any database. It's amazing - at least for me~! Lastly, my supervisor, Dr Bhanu is leaving for the States this evening. They - Dr. Bhanu, and his bosses and colleagues - are going for a RSNA conference. I'm sure they will win more awards this time coz they all worked so hard, and honestly, for it. every data they get is through the real channel, no cheating nor hiding. Every bug is to be found and cured. So, to the devotion and dedication~~!! Jia you Jia you~~!!!

Being a Mistress - yes - i mean LOVER @ The other Woman

2008-11-26T11:43:00.007+08:00

The following article is something i would like to share with all. Being a mistress is never something good to start with but then again, some people might say that some woman is just fated to be a mistress than a wife. So, this article provides the every do's and don't's for a mistress-to-be. Enjoy reading :) Meanwhile, if you're planning to be the other woman, i hope this song will stop you from doing so...

Ive never been to me - Charlene

Being a mistress is, in many respects, the perfect sexual situation. You get wined and dined and treated like a lady, you get as much sex as time permits, you may even get a contribution towards the rent (but you don't have to wash anyone else's socks) and you certainly don't have to put up with sport on the TV or have to deal with them coming back drunk from the pub.

Moral Dilemmas

Having an affair with a married man isn't socially or morally nice. We all hate being cheated on, and there are no two ways about this; you are enabling a man to cheat on his wife. This is one of the reasons for making sure that the affair remains essentially meaningless. Fun, entertaining, satisfying, but meaningless.

There is a difference for the man, and therefore for his wife, between him having a love affair and having a mistress. Too many women are left reeling with pain years, or even decades, after a man takes the taxi ride into another relationship for it to be in any way acceptable to do this. So make sure neither of you fall in love, set rules and stick to them, and if he even thinks about thinking of leaving his wife, end the affair there and then. Follow the Wiccan philosophy of 'do what you will, but do no harm'.

Being a mistress only suits women who are not looking for commitment in a relationship. There are unattached men out there, and aside from the damage it will cause to his wife and his children, a man who can skillfully lie to his partner is no kind of partner to choose. From a simple point of self-preservation, if from no other, if you are looking for a partner do not seek out married men.

However, if you're going to do a thing, for goodness-sake do it well! If you follow the guidelines in this entry, you will both have lots of pleasure and lots of fun, and you will minimise the risks of pain for all three of you. Be under no illusions, you are playing with fire. It is compelling, it is fun, it keeps you warm at night, but you can all get badly burned¹.

So, here are a few simple rules to follow to be the perfect mistress.

'Who Needs a Heart, When a Heart Can Be Broken?'

Don't Fall in Love and Don't Get Emotionally Involved

Choose a man who makes you feel wonderful; choose a man who makes you laugh; choose a man who is good in bed; but don't choose someone you are going to fall in love with. The moment his failings start to become cute, concentrate on just how annoying they are. And the moment that you become emotionally involved he can hurt you. This is about feeling good, not about feeling pain.

Keep It Light

The time you spend together will be limited, so make sure it is good. Put in the effort. Dress up, turn off your mobile phone, light candles, be in a good mood, make sure he has a good time (if he does, you will too), and only say yes to a date if you can both be undistracted.

We had to meet on the Thursday because Man U were playing his team at home on the Sunday. A friend of mine said how awful to be second best to football, but my view is that it would have been much too dangerous to be more important than football.

Accept Flowers, But Not Hearts

Don't let him fall in love with you. This is one of the ground rules you should set out at the start of the affair. Make it clear that you want his body, his company, his attention, and some of his time, but that you do not want commitment. You won't let him damage his marriage, and you will end it if he falls in love.

However, don't necessarily panic if he says he loves you - he may well not really mean it. Remember, this is a man who lies to women.

Set Ground Rules

Setting the ground rules for both of you at the start of the affair means that it is easier for both of you to keep it light and run as few risks as possible. And by setting the ground rules, even though a lot of them appear to be disempowering, you will in fact be calling the shots.

Never Make Phone Calls

The big advantage of making him phone you is that when you do talk to each other it is because he wants to talk to you. He will have the time and the privacy, and hopefully nothing else on his mind. You can both enjoy the phone call without any strain or stress.

The two last times I phoned I expected him to be either at work or driving home - both times he was with his wife on a train, going away on a long weekend or a holiday. Awkward.

Tell Him Not to Tell You When He Plans to Phone

This means he won't feel bad about not phoning you when he said that he would because, sure as eggs are eggs, he won't phone when he says he will. It also reduces the strain on you, because you won't sit around waiting for a phone-call that never takes place, you just get on with your own life. And if he phones when you cannot spend time on the phone, it will gently remind him that he is not the only thing in your life.

Never Complain, Never Explain

Keep your own life, let it be quite clear that he is only a part of it. If you cannot meet him, don't go into long explanations about why. A good additional rule is that as soon as someone becomes part of your private life, then you never tell them about any other aspect of your private life.

If he is having a particularly busy time at home or at work and can't see you for a while, don't complain about it - he will get more than enough nagging from his wife.

Don't Ask...

One of the easiest ways to ensure your own right to privacy is to enforce his. In particular, don't talk about his wife. You can end up in the odd position of giving your lover marriage guidance counselling and this is bad for all three of you. You are not his best friend, you are his mistress, and it is inappropriate for you to know too many details of other parts of his personal life. If he does happen to moan about his wife - never contribute to it. It's all right for him to complain about his wife, but he will resent someone else doing it.

Sauce for the Goose is Sauce for the Gander

Don't assume that you need to be faithful to him. A lot of women are used to the idea that fidelity is a trait to be valued, and a lot of men think it's something they deserve even if it's strictly one-sided. This is obviously something which could cause problems in your dealings with him, and if you can manage to keep any other lovers a secret you should do so. Of all people in the world, the man who takes a mistress has no right to expect exclusivity².

Having done my share of mistressing (in my younger and wilder days, of course) I think one point that might be driven a little bit harder home is that he has no right to demand your sexual fidelity. Perhaps if you're a 'kept woman' that negotiation might change, but for a pure and naughty mistress, forget it. Once upon a time when I was smart enough to know better, and naive enough to listen to him, I went through a world of hurt dealing with a jealous, married man. It took ages for my rational mind to kick its way through the sex-crazed-weasel glow and assert itself: mistresses don't owe their boy toy anything more than a mutual good time.

End It Too Soon

It takes an enormous amount of self-discipline to end an affair while it is still good. However, it is far better to look back on something which has always been good for both of you, than it is to have your most recent memories bad ones. In many respects the best affairs are time limited.

I had an affair with someone while we were both on an assignment abroad. The first night we slept together I said 'this is overseas only'; he gave me a very odd look as if to say 'well of course it is'. It ended a little too soon as a result, but every single night we were together was a good one, and he still phones me every now and again for a chat. Although I would never ask him to help me move house, he is one of three people in the world that I would ask for help moving a body.

The Woman He Married

View Guilt-gifts as a Silent Compliment

Having a mistress is expensive. He may not be paying for sex directly, but as well as paying for the nights out with you, he will be buying gifts for his wife. Don't be threatened by these, and don't be offended.

When the affair was over, he bought his wife a conservatory and had fitted units put in their bedroom, and remodeled the bathroom. I was impressed. I certainly didn't want him to buy me a conservatory too, but I felt it showed just how much he had enjoyed his time with me if he felt about 20 grand's worth of guilt!

However, that £20,000 is put into the shade by the following guilt-gifts:

The two years I was with someone cost him dear. During that time he bought his wife all the things he had previously refused to buy her. These things included a second house, a swimming pool, having the garden landscaped, two new cars, over £200,000 worth of house re-decoration, approximately £50,000 worth of diamond jewellery and a mink coat! Then he had to install a very expensive burglar- and fire-alarm system and large safe to keep it all secure. Far from feeling resentful, I was amused and flattered.

Don't Be a Taxi

The only men to have affairs with are men whose marriages are stable.

He obviously does not feel the same way about his wife as he did on the day that he promised to 'cleave to her only, till us do part'; but, someone who has a vested interest in keeping his marriage in good health is the perfect part-time lover. Too many men will only get off the bus if there is a taxi waiting, and causing that much grief and pain to another woman is bad for everyone. If he does leave her, what on earth makes you think he will be faithful to you? You already know he tells lies.

It is a good policy to tell him that if he leaves his wife, you will leave him. That particular threat keeps a man's mind focused on keeping both of you happy.

You Never Know, You Might Like Her

If your lover always goes for one type of woman, it is very likely you would actually like his wife very much indeed.

My last husband always used to call me 'Hazel', and he always bought me White Linen perfume from Estée Lauder. I didn't like either of these habits. I discovered why he did it when he collapsed once and I thought he was going to die. I was wrong as it turned out, but I thought I should get in touch with his two previous wives and his secretary. I suspected that he was having an affair with her, and I was right. They all came, and we spent the afternoon sitting and talking by his bed, while he was hooked up to the monitors. It turns out that he had called all of us 'Hazel' and bought all of us White Linen, even though none of us could stand the stuff. He woke up at one point, looked around the room, and not surprisingly he passed out again.
His secretary and I spent the evening in my apartment drinking wine and talking about him. The long and the short of the story is that I ended up divorcing him, but she has become one of my best friends.

Be a Goddess, but not a Domestic One

Keep the Magic Alive

Treat every date like one of the first dates. Be sweet, listen and sympathise. Be kind, don't gush, and give him the time for him to talk about that most fascinating of subjects - himself.

Strangely there is something rather fulfilling in indulging someone and talking to them on their subjects. After a while you not only become a good listener, but also more understanding and less selfish. And you can afford to do this, because you don't see him every day, and you don't want him to become part of your own life.

If the toilet leaks, it is your problem: call a plumber.

Get Steamy Not Seedy

Have showers together, have baths together, but unless you have fabulous legs and shaving them becomes an erotic activity in itself, keep all other bathroom activities behind closed doors. The line between intimacy and familiarity should never be crossed. The mysterious magic of having a mistress is destroyed for him when the domestic or physical realities intrude.

Thin Wisps of Nothingness

Make a special effort. Remember he will constantly be comparing you with his wife. Make sure your skin is silky smooth by exfoliating and moisturising regularly, and book in for a waxing a couple of days before your date so your body is perfect and hairless. Splash out on ridiculously expensive, microscopic underwear by La Perla. Wear the underwear - stocking, suspenders, corset, basque, etc, whatever he personally likes. Be confident in it as though you wear it all the time and never ever complain about any discomfort it may cause. If you want to be treated like something special, you must be special.

Other Skills

Unless you are an effortless and excellent cook, don't try to be a domestic goddess. Your relationship is not about domesticity and it is surprisingly hard to cook a meal and not burn it when crazed with lust. If he does come round to yours, have a casserole already prepared or specialise in food like cheese and grapes and Haagen Daz, which can become part of the evenings activities.

Don't, however, make a habit of preparing meals and staying in. Men can all to quickly become comfortable in the domestic situation and bang go your dinners and evenings out. Remember mistresses are not wives, they are there to be indulged and enjoyed, not used.

If you can massage backs or feet or heads, so much the better. However, there is a difference between rubbing a back and giving a massage, and massage is a skill worth acquiring. Anyone can have sex, but very few women can release knots in the trapezius.

Where to Find a Married Man

As Jackie Collins points out - the world is full of them. The two obvious places to look are at work, and (if you are married yourself) among your circle of friends. Both carry risks.

Professional Engagements

It can be all too easy to find a lover in the workplace, but it can be difficult to work with one.

When we first started sleeping together he would walk past my desk to his, and I would get turned on just by that proximity. I found it distracting, and to be honest annoying. I knew I was going to have a wonderful time that night, I really did not need the distraction during the day.

It can also be the most enormous fun.

We had always been very flirty right from the start. My personal style is very flirty anyway, and he is fun to flirt with. That became even more fun when we were having the affair, but no-one knew about it. The best bit was saying things with a completely straight face or sounding as if I was in a bad mood, which only he knew were true.
Him - 'Can you review this report for me before I send it out?'
Me (with no innuendo at all) - 'Is that the best use of my time? I am sure it is up to the same high standards I know you always deliver whenever you do anything for me.'

However, working with an ex-lover can be painful, which is one of the reasons for keeping the whole affair very light. Some organisations take relationships between members of staff very seriously indeed, so the professional risks can be high.

A Circle of Friends

They say you should never foul your own doorstep, and having an affair with someone within your circle of friends is exactly that. However, circumstances dictate that you are far more likely to meet and have an affair with someone within that circle than outside. Before embarking on an affair with a friend's husband, be aware that if it is discovered, you, and not him, will be blamed for it and everyone will treat you like a scarlet women, whether there were mitigating circumstances or not. Adulterous men have an amazing ability to come up smelling of roses regardless of their actions.

To conduct an affair with someone you see socially, you have to be extremely comfortable and confident in the presence of both them and their wife. The biggest mistake people make is to become more reserved and less flirtatious with the husband once an affair has begun - this change in behaviour is an absolute give-away. Behave exactly as you did before and no-one will be suspicious.

Ending an affair with someone you will continue to see socially is extremely difficult. If it ends amicably, you may find yourself being tempted to re-kindle it at some stage. If it ends badly, it may be very difficult to continue socialising with them without considerable discomfort.

Also remember, a husband who has had one affair will more than likely go on to have more.

I was staying with my lover and his wife for a couple of weeks. His wife was well aware that he was apt to stray and spent most of her waking hours keeping tabs on him. One particular day he was working in London and she could not contact him for a couple of hours in the afternoon. She kept saying 'Where is he? What's he up to?' I sat there initially confident that for once I wasn't the prime suspect, but after a while I too started thinking 'Where is he? What's he up to?' and then I thought 'Oh my God, she's got me doing it too!' It was then I realised that safe in the knowledge that both his wife and mistress were stuck at home, he was probably off with someone else.

You either accept it or get out, there is no room for jealousy when you are a mistress.

The Fifty Mile Rule

This suggests that the ideal distance between your home and your lover's is 50 miles. This is near enough to meet up easily, but far enough to ensure that you don't meet his wife or family in any casual social context accidentally and thus cause embarrassment. However not all social circles work like that. Some worlds (polo, music, theatre, and so on) are spread thinner and further than 50 miles.

Don't Tell Anyone Who Knows Him About Your Affair

This is particularly important if you have a circle of friends in common. If you tell someone who knows him, or even worse, knows his wife, you have to assume that sooner or later she will find out. If you absolutely must share your private life with someone, then only ever tell a girlfriend who knows you but not him.

Money Matters

Some mistresses are self-financing, and this reduces your vulnerability. It keeps things much cleaner because there is no risk to the rent on your flat or your grocery bills if anything happens to your relationship. Let him buy you drinks, meals and presents as it is another way of flattering his ego - and let's face it, male egos are easily flattered. But if you can afford to be self-financing, then you retain a lot of power in the relationship.

If You Do It, Do It Well!

Having an affair with a married man suits a lot of women at some stage in their lives. It is fun, it is flattering, it is the most wonderful way of rebuilding damaged self-confidence, and it gives you a great sense of your own power. If you make sure no-one gets hurt by setting the rules and calling the shots even though you appear to be giving away a lot of your power by never phoning him and by consciously flattering his ego, you are in fact retaining control.

And above all, it involves lots of sex, and you never have to wash any socks.

The article above can be obtained at : http://www.bbc.co.uk/dna/h2g2/A878204

City Square

2008-11-23T12:27:00.003+08:00

Yea.. this post is written specially for Jeffery Ng~~ last weekend we went to City Square for movie. The movie starts at 1040pm, but we reached CS about 9pm. So we decided to have a cup of coffee before proceed to the cinema. Unfortunately, CS closes at about 10pm. So, by the time we want to walk up to 5th floor, the routes are all closed - at least all the route we know. then, we proceed to every exit, hoping that there's a way to 5th floor, but all to no avail. Desperately, i crossed the middle part of CS, which is where Vivo Pizza is located. Then suddenly~~~the ALARM rang~~!!! OMG~~ I was like.... Jeff acted cool, walked out and act like nothing happened. I was stunned - seriously stunned. The alarm kept on ringing even until we found a life to the 5th floor, directed by a foreign cleaner. so memalukan~~ since then, Jeff will call me - THIEF~~!! Hey, im innocent ok? I'm just trying to figure a way out!!!

Week 4, Day 5

2008-11-21T16:11:00.003+08:00

Here's this week's update. Basically, nothing much to do this week, because i'm repeating what i'm doing. This time with more data. Total of 79 datas. Dr Bhanu told me a lot of things regarding research. I've totally changed my point of view regarding researchers. Before this, i will think of them as people who wants fame and glory. By publishing papers, giving talks, etc.. Just like those politicians. But now, it's not what i think they are. Nope, fame is not what they want, at least not for those people i'm working with. They did all this because they want to make the world a better and convenient place to be. Not for glory, nor fame. They do not CHEAT with results, do not FABRICATE results. Everything they wrote is their hardwork. Unlike what i learned in MMU - i'm not saying that MMU is a bad place. ^^

Neway, this week's highlight is not about my work place. It's about my family member, not direct member, as people say the 'keluarga asas', it's my 'keluarga kembangan'. She - yea, she - was addicted to gambling, ended up borrowing money from load shark. Today's balance is RM30k. Yea, RM30k... She asked my mum for help, and out of stupidity~~ ok, mayb not stupidity ~~ my mum lent her RM520 - only 0.017% of her total debt - i seriously dunno why my mum did that. That was my mum's 50% saving, and she lent it to her. I'm sure she'll never see that RM520 back again. well, what can i say? I'm laughing at her style of living. Not sure if i should admire her for her genorousity or blame her for her stupidity~~

Week 3, Day 4

2008-11-13T15:00:00.003+08:00

Hmm.. Here i am again, updating my blogs. I guess things which will be said for this few months will be all regarding Industrial Training. I've been doing nothing new for the past one week. Still the same old routine, only that i'm testing with different algorithm, trying to find out the best algorithm to obtain the best result. But then again, something happened yesterday evening. My supervisor, Dr. Bhanu chatted with me for about 30 minutes. We talked about the ITP, the log book and the evalution form which he has to fill up at the end of the program. Well, as usual, Diana is the kind who will tell what she thinks. I asked him if he thinks he has a life~ I mean, what kind of life a researcher can have. They bury themselves in work 24/7, their head is full of their research problems. He said, he has. It's just that different people has different expectation in life. Different ppl wants different thing and no one can have everything. Then, it occurs to me, what exactly do i want in life? Next question which i asked was what kept him moving on. Research is not an easy job, you can't obtain results within a short duration of time. It's not about doing it on Monday, getting the result on Friday. Yes, it may be a Monday of January 2005, Friday of December 2020... You get what i mean? His answer to this question is, his passion in helping people. Not everyone can be politicians, doctors, nurses. But then again, everyone has their own role in this world. If being a researcher is the only way he can reach out to help people, then he is doing it. OMG~~!! don't you think it's so so so courageable??

Nevertheless, his words kept my brain turning until now. These people are so experienced and they know what they want in life. When and where can i find it? How do i know if that's what i want in life? Dear peers, how has your training been? Did it left you thinking about your future? Till then~~ take care!!

week 2, day 2

2008-11-04T23:25:00.002+08:00

After a week of training, kinda got used to life there. To me, it's like being in campus, the only difference is that you get to do your FYP - Project all the time you're there. This time, my FYP is image processing - totally out of my own FYP. But then again, the advantage of it is that i'm also using MATLAB for both projects. I've been reading my other coursemate's blog, and they've all mentioned about their supervisor. well, my supervisor's name is Dr. Bhanu Prakash. He's a nice guy, at least for the past 6 days. I seldom see him though. He basically left me with few tasks, a part of his research project and asked me to deal with it. He wrote few things which need to be done in my exercise book. then, i guess it's up for me to find him when i'm in trouble. But then again, instead of consulting him, i've turned to Jianbo, my colleague. to me, he's also a pro in MATLAB. He's from China, very nice guy. quite young too as he graduated from NTU 2 years ago. He will help me solve me queries so that i do not have to disturb my supervisor. so, i suppose my life here as a trainee can be considered as good. I still have my own life to live, not much different. Hope everything will go smoothly for the next 3 months. Till then~~

First day of training

2008-10-28T16:38:00.002+08:00

Guess everyone has their first day story to tell and i suppose i'm the earliest to write it. Thanks to my supervisor for giving me the chance to write. Basically, i did nothing today. I was given no assignment nor projects. Well, maybe there was. Here's my schedule for today...

7am - walked to Admiralty to take MRT
8am - reached Buona Vista MRT station
8.10am - reached Bus Stop to take Shuttle Bus
8.15am - reached Matrix - the building i'm working at
8.30am - went to 5th floor to meet Miss Chua - the admin girl in charge of my placement
8.45am - Miss Caren brought me to 8th floor to meet Miss Aminah - who is an Indian ><
8.50am - stunned because CPU not functioning
10.00am - been sitting down like an idiot for 1 hour ++, still not functioning
11.00am - finally, got a CPU that is functioning. told to reformat it
12.00pm - went for lunch with 'colleague' - Miss Anna from Poland, Dr. Bhanu from India, Mr. Thiru from Singapore
1.00pm - came back to office, continue formatting
2.30pm - done formatting. waiting for technician to install MATLAB
3.00pm - almost doze off
4.00pm - still doing nothing
5.00pm - NOTHING... thus writing blog

So, here's what actually happened on the first day of work. Not as fun as i thought. Wanna hear something that will tickles you off your first day?

I've been wanting to go to the washroom since 11am but i am afraid i might not able to come back into the office if i went out. The doors are equipped with a scanner, which you must scan with you pass to enter. I, on the other hand, havent got myself a card, thanks to the admin who just threw me away. :( I kept my urine to myself until i cant stand it anymore, which is about 3.30pm. I went out, into the toilet. When i was done, i wanted to open the door with the visitor pass, the thing don't work - coz there's no sensor at the card >< - I was stucked in the toilet and pantry. At this moment, i went to every exit i can find, hoping to see any human being with the card. Guess who i saw? A janitor >< I asked the janitor for help and she opened the door for me. That's how i came back in. So, that's basically what happened on the first day which i hope do not serve as a preview to what might happen in future. To the rest of my friends, please do share what happened on your first day. Till then..Nano Nano~~

Industrial Training

2008-10-27T23:56:00.001+08:00

Dear all...

It's been - again - so long since i last posted a blog. So, here am i, one nite prior to the start of my industrial training, in fact to almost most of my friend's training. I would like to express my sincerest luck to everyone who might need them now. Please do keep in touch so that i know how have you ppl been for the coming 3 months. Take care and all the best :)

An Inspiration

2008-08-21T19:19:00.002+08:00

This post was inspired by a good friend of mine. Honestly speaking, there aren't many friend whom i acknowledge as friend in MMU. But, she is one of those whom i placed in my heart. She will not be forgotten because of her determination in live. I am pretty sure millions of people out there are complaining everyday when something bad happens to them, for instance, they got caught in a massive traffic jam - i mean who doesn't?, gotten ill because over walking in the rain, etc... Have they ever put themselves in other people shoes when they complain? Other people shoe doesn't mean to put into George Bush's shoe, or and Dick or Harry, but into the children in Africa, in the shoes of Lisa from Ireland who died of radiation overdose, or even my grandma who had to rely on medicine since she was in her 40s.

This particular friend of mine stood strong even in the lowest moment in her life. Ok, what does 'lowest' means? Is going through a chemotherapy 'low' enough? Imagine a healthy person who suddenly realised she had to go through a surgery, a few inches scar on her flat tummy then, go through a series of neverending chemotherapy. She went through it all, of course not by herself, but with the encouragement of people around her. She didn't give up, not even when she lost 10kg's. (Of course, she was also happy because she managed to slim down - that's not the point)

After a hell long torture, I suppose she will never forget that few months she had, she didn't give up on her undergrad. She continue studying, hoping to graduate with flying colours. She lead her life like normal, we hang out together as we used to. In fact, for me, i could even forgot about the hard time she went through. It was until lately, when she's feeling a little bit 'out of health'. Her stomach was not giving in to her, it was repelling everything she gave, and even if she doesn't feed it, it will still repel things which are supposed to be inside. This, of course, has caused much discomfort to her.

People around her starts to worry about her, especially those who love her most - her parents. She, on the other hand, doesn't want them to waste their neurons on her, refuse to let them know what is going on with her.

Some might say that this decision of hers is unwise, whilst some might think otherwise. If i were to put myself in her shoe, i would do the same thing. But the thing is, I am not in her position to really decide what i will do. Logically thinking, it will be most appropriate to endure all the suffering myself instead of causing problems for other people as well. but, think again, if you were the parents. would you rather your kid tell you the truth that hurts you or would you rather your kid hide the truth?

I always remember what my dad reminds me, 'You will never know how it feels until you reach that stage.' I think he's right.

So, my dear friend, it is only common for us to care about you, to skip class just to bring you to doctor. We do not think of you as a burden, but we feel honoured to be able to go through your darkest moment with you. Honoured because you had chosen us to be your samurai to fight with you. Stay Strong, and you will be proud of yourself when you tell this story of yours to your kids one day.

Introducing Schubert's Impromptu 90, No. 2

2008-08-19T16:18:00.002+08:00

This particular post is to introduce this piece which i currently have a crush on. I've embedded two clips from youtube, two different interpretation of this piece by two famous musicians - not including me :P -

MAGALOFF

Zimmerman

Which do you think is better? or perhaps i should come out with my own interpretation. Maybe after i did a thorough study on Schubert and why he wrote this impromptu.

Hope you guys enjoyed the clips.

A List of Vocab...

2008-08-18T21:40:00.002+08:00

Hmm..

I wonder.. wat's the use of a list of vocab? Of course, it serves as a purpose to enrich your vocab. As a final year student, i think that my english level is comparable to a sec scl student. It is really humiliating. Hence, i made up my mind - yea.. i think so :P - to learn at least 10 new vocab per week. Let's go slow... 2 words per day...

Today's word will be:

Lucid - clear, easily understood
Magnanimity - the quality of being generously noble

(actually this was last friday's word.. due to my tight schedule, i can only post it today.)

So, the 'real' today's words are.......

vilify - to utter slanderous and abusive statements against - defame
heretical - of, relating to, or characterized by heresy - unorthodox

A new Trimester

2008-06-14T23:16:00.002+08:00

Hey all.. it's been so long since i last updated my blog. Basically, i didn't update coz there's nothing much going on in my life. Everything's sailing smoothly :) So, just a short update now. Delta year has passed and Epsilon will start in two days time. Final year.. How does it feels to be a final year student? The first thing which pops up is "Final Year Project". Everyone is worried about this. Including me... But then again, do not worry about things which has not happened. I'm sure everyone will be proud of their FYP next year. So, let's us enjoy our final year, our last year together as coursemate, uni-mate :)

I Wish You Enough

2008-04-22T14:14:00.004+08:00

Here is something i read from "Chicken Soup for the Grieving Soul". This is just a small extract and it did touched my heart. I hope it will remind you how to appreciate people around you, for they might leave you before you realize they are leaving...

"I overheard a father and daughter in their last moments together. They had announced her departure and standing near the security gate, they hugged and he said, "I love you. I wish you enough". She in turn said, "Daddy, our life together has been more that enough. Your love is all I ever needed. I wish you enough, too, Daddy" They kissed, and she left. He walked over toward the window where I was seated. Standing there I could see he wanted and needed to cry. I tried not to intrude on his privacy, but he welcomed me in by asking , "Did you ever say good-bye to someone knowing it would be forever?"
"Yes, I have, " I replied. Saying that brought back memories I had of expressing my love and appreciation for all my dad had done for me. Recognizing that his days were limited, I took the time to tell him face-to-face how much he meant to me. So I knew what this man was experiencing. "Forgive me for asking, but why is this a forever good-bye?"I asked.
"I am old, and she lives much too far away. I have challenges ahead, and the reality is, the next trip back will be for my funeral," he said.
"When you were saying good-bye I heard you say, 'I wish you enough. ' May i ask what that means?"
.........

"When we said 'I wish you enough,' we were wanting the other person to have a life filled with just enough good things to sustain them," he continued and then turning toward me he recited the following:

I wish you enough sun to keep your attitude bright.
I wish you enough rain to appreciate the sun more.
I wish you enough happiness to keep your spirit alive.
I wish you enough enough pain so that the smallest joys in life appear much bigger.
I wish you enough gain to satisfy your wanting.
I wish you enough loss to appreciate all that you possess.
I wish you enough "hellos" to get you through the final "good-bye."

He then began to sob and walked away.
"
_______________________The End______________________

Yea, so thanks for spending your time reading that. Here's something i would like to share, it's my personal experience.

One year back, if I were to go back to JB on a weekend, i will stay over at my grandma's house. Always, on a Sunday afternoon, i will have to take a bus back to Melaka because i have classes on Monday. Then, my grandma will bid me goodbye as my mum drives me away from her house. She will stand at the doorway until i am totally gone from her sight. Then she will slowly cry, not knowing if she might live to see me again. At that time, i didn't know how she was feeling but i was very sad too, i would cry on the bus because I know I will miss her when i'm back in Melaka. She needed me as much as I needed her.
The last time she said goodbye to me, she was lying down on a bed, in the hospital. I was rushing because i might not catch the bus on time. I ran to her side, i said "Ama, i'm going back to Melaka now. You take care." She replied, "You must study hard, don't worry about me. I'll wait for you to come back, then we go eat nice food together." Then I held her hands and said bye.
Never, it never came into my mind that, that will be the last time i will be talking to her. If I knew that would be the last, I would not bother if I missed the bus, I would stay by her side more, and talked to her more. Three days with her in the hospital was not enough.

I guess that is all I want to say.

Appreciation from Me

2008-04-09T20:25:00.001+08:00

1. To all my Bio-Instrumentation coursemates:

My assignment-mate - Yap Ah Bee, thanks for bearing with my pace, and my attitude for wanting everything to be perfect.
My sisters - Pei Xian, Mei Shan, Gui Yan - Really enjoyed dancing with you gals, and thankful for what you gals did when i was real sad, how we spent the few nights together, though it is only for few nights, but i will not forget it till the day i'm buried.
My brothers - Kok Phin, Riyit, Ah Bee - ya i know, the four guys in Bio, where you all always include me in.. I'm happy to know you guys. Without the three of you, bio class will be so quiet as we'll have no people to bully :P
My other sisters - Hsien Yun, Mei Yung, Rachel, Ying Shuang, Yew Hwee, Chui Ling - though you gals are a bit noisy in class, always talking, but that's what makes me miss you gals most. If anyone of you is not around, the class will be noiseless, and it makes me sleepy. Besides, i enjoyed times when we celebrate Birthdays together. Without you gals, bio will be less happening :)
My Indian brothers and sisters - Kuhan, Geetha, Tharmini, Radhika- did you think i will forget to mention you all? Nope, i didn't. Your names are here :) Though we seldom go out, in fact never, besides MMU corner and Mesra or Highland. But i really enjoyed talking to you people. All of you showed me another view of life and widen my perspective.
My Malay sisters - Nina, Murni, Yani - haha, come to think of it, we never really went out before. Besides seeing you gals in class, i only remember seeing Nina playing badminton with .... (kantul~~) Neway, i remember the last time we discussed assignment question (EMG), it was a great experience working with you gals. And i really look forward the cakes you gals bake, when wanna give me a treat?
Huui Fang - hmm.. why are you not in any of the group above? Coz i seldom see you with the rest of them, except for the Malay sisters. so, i decided to write you individually (special :) ) You are the only Chinese gal who do not mix with the rest, it's not that you're weird or different, but i will say that you are different from them. Your view, your aims are different. To be honest, i admire your thinking :) And your passion in Christ. Thanks for the bread from Sarawak and the tour in Sibu :)
My International brothers - Hendi, Abdullah, Khaldon - I think missed out few other names coz i dun really see them in every class. The three of you are the one whom i see since Alpha. Abdullah, thanks for the currency you gave me, i'm still keeping it :) Hendi for your support in various events i participated and Khaldon for being so jovial in class. All three of you are the reason why i will defend when other people say that the IS do not come here to study. Coz from my experience with the three of you, you guys showed me that you came here to study and you guys really worked hard for it. So, keep up the good work :)

I think that's the end of Bio list, did i miss anyone out??? Please forgive me...

Let's proceed to list No.2,

2. To all my other friends in MMU

Beh - Though i do not know you long enough, but i'm grateful that you has been there since the day i now you :) Let's continue inspiring each other...
Kai Siong - Thanks for the trip to KL, it really meant a lot and the conversation we had :)
Jock - Giving me lifts, it really meant a lot especially when it's so hot :)
Nilson - You're the only person whom i call "God" in MMU. Enjoyed my microp project with you.
SamYP - Thank you for your ear :)
Ting Yii - For formatting my laptop at Zubaidah.
Li Hao - You taught me a lot, academically and also socializing.
Chye Siang - Someone who's willing to help with no strings attached.
Khai Mun - Always appear at the right time to stretch out your helping hand
Boon Ming - Glad that i have you as my hiking-mate
Chong Siang - a fren whom i think will never be removed in my life
Chin Ting - Always there to help me when i'm at my wits end
Tian Shen - Thanks for your advises, it's still crystal clear in my mind.
Chris - thanks for constantly fueling my passion in music
Wei Jie - The last person i turn to and never disappoint me
Jia Fong - The guy who will keep me going strong
Azhan - Thanks for always being there to support me.

3. You must be cursing me if i go on.. haha... So i think that's my appreciation list. I will have to skip the lecturers, or else the post will be in zillion words.

As conclusion, throughout my four years in MMU, i've gained a lot but at the same time, lost a lot. But at this point of my life, i choose to look at what i've gained and take the opportunity to offer my apology if i did anything wrong and to thank those who helped me. Without your help, (yes, you), i guess i will not be here writing this post :) So, remember, wherever you are, do help when you can, you never know that action of yours might mean a lot to the person.

Lastly, thanks to all and enjoy your final year here~~!!

Birthday Celebration

2008-02-28T15:39:00.002+08:00

After so long of not updating my own blog.. it's time now.. :)

On 26th Feb 2008, once again, all the B-Gang (as named by Ah Bee) went for birthday celebration... This time, we had dinner at pak putra.. and then karaoke at the new but LOUSY GOGO KTV...

This time around, we celebrated for 3 ppl. Pei Xian (22nd Feb), Riyit (25the Feb) and me (27th Feb)... Even though we are not able to celebrate it with everyone's presence, the celebration was still fun. but then again, i must say that i'm not very happy coz not everyone is presence. It seems that things started to change. I wonder what will happen next year coz we'll start FYP by then.. I doubt if we will celebrate our birthday together again..

But then again... I'm still glad to those who still comes and stayed the whole way. Thanks for the wonderful memories...

If anyone were to ask me, what izzit that i gained most during my days in MMU, it'll be friendship :) Who dare says frens after 21 are not true friends???

!!!~~~Thanks to all~~~!!!!

Conclusion

2008-02-24T04:09:00.001+08:00

it hurts.
It hurts when you know someone you trust cheats on you. Especially when you love that person. But then again, isn't it better that you find out sooner? If it is really the end, why bother finding excuses for it? If he's not the one, why bother forcing it?

I'm through with love

2008-02-12T01:03:00.000+08:00

Before i continue the last day trip to Sarawak... please give space for advertisement.. :P This is a song i heard whilst on my way back from Raub to Melaka in my dad's car. I felt something for this song.. and i hope to share with all.. even though my blog's title is faith and hope... this song sounded a bit hopeless... but this portrays me, at least for this moment...

Watch it here:

It's lyrics:

"I'm Through With Love"

I'm through with love
I'll never fall again
Said adieu to love
Don't ever call again
For I must have you or no one
That's why I'm through with love

I've locked my heart
I keep my feelings there
I have stocked my heart
Like an icy, frigid air
For I need to care for no one
That's why I'm through with love

Why did you lead me
To think that you cared
You didn't need me
For you have your share
Of slaves around you
To hound you and swear
Their deep devotion
Emotion

Goodbye to Spring
And all it meant to me
It could never bring
The things that used to be
For I must have you or no one
That's why I'm through with love

Trip to Sarawak - Day 7

2008-01-28T01:37:00.000+08:00

Day 7: Bintulu + Sibu
14th January 2008

We woke up kinda early in the morning because we have a long day ahead... Around 7am, we all departed from Jia Feng's house. Met two new frens, Hong En (the guy who look like Chye Siang) and Zhi Qiang. Both of them are Jia Feng's churchmates... From Bukit Orang (Jia Feng's Taman), we went to the bus stand, not to Sibu... but to have breakfast at Jia Feng's fren's coffee shop. Her name is Mei Mei.. oso their churchmate. Ah Bee and me shared a bowl of porridge whilst the rest had kampua (again???)... Then at about 7.45, we headed off to.....Similajau... (i noe wat you're thinking, but that's really the name of that place)... It's a 45 min - 1 hour drive from Bintulu town. When we reached there, we start our Jungle Trekking... The beach was really nice and clean.. According to Zhi Qiang and Hong En, if we are lucky, we might get to see dolphin, Wild Boar or even sea cucumber.. but too bad.. we didn't see any of those.. but here are few pics i took with my phone..

Mushroom on a trunk

The route at Similajau national park

The information on the routes

When we reached our destination, which is about 1 hour walk, we rested and had our high tea there.. Jia Feng, Pei Xian, Ah Bee, Sam and me went into the sea... My goodness, the sea is so damn clean... and one thing weird about the sea is it is shallow at first, then deep, then shallow again... then suddenly at a point, there'll be no more stone and becomes VERY DEEP... if i had a chance, i would love to dive there, i'm sure i'll be fascinated...

After trekking, we went back to Jia Feng's house for bath. then went off for lunch. Had lunch in a seafood restaurant coz it was already 3pm, and most of the shops already closed... the meal was so-so.. but here's something special...

Scary?? Cindy.. dun scare ppl next time..

After food, we went to get our car.. and guess wat.. Jia Feng got a ticket.. i wonder if it has been settled... Then, we went to the bus station... Here we go.. off to Sibu... Thanks Jia Feng's family for the great hospitality, i really felt like home..

On our way there, the bus stopped by Batu Niah, and they saw Chicken ASs for sale... they bought it.. here's two extremist with Chicken Ass...

Till now, i dun understand why they say it's nice...

Someone's drop dead tired

We reached Sibu at about 7pm. Jia Feng's mum's fren picked us up.. SO pai seh... then we checked into RH hotel. I suppose it's the best hotel we stay whilst at Sarawak.

After checking in, we went for food hunt... ate at the local market, then had a walk at their night market. Majority of us ate Teochew Flat Noodle.. it was nice.. but too salty.. Ah Bee ate Chicken rice.. which is not nice.. and pei xian had kampua.. not very nice oso~~

someone's always thumbs up~ even when the food is not nice :P

Then headed off the the riverside to take picture with a Swan (fake swan).. Lastly...

Have a good nite sleep~

Trip to Sarawak - Day 6

2008-01-17T20:06:00.000+08:00

Day 6: Bintulu
13th January 2008

Today, finally... we get to sleep till late... the gals woke up around 11am but those guys.. dunno wat got onto them, they woke up at 9am.. dunno for wat... lolz... then we went for lunch. We had Fried Cook Mee again.. but it's Bintulu version (Honestly speaking, this version is better than Miri's).. and Prawn Mee.. The prawn mee is RM10.. but they uses the big prawn.. the head almost as big as Ah Bee's head (quoted from Pei Xian)... as for drinks... The one in the pic is called 'san suan' as in 3 sour.. It's a mixture of lemon, limau kasturi and sour plum.. really very sour...

Then, we went to the market, there's actually two market in a venue. the first is the normal market which we get to see here... the other is called the Pasar Tamu, where the Ibans will sell their fresh food here. We all bought Belacan and Shrimp. Then, we went to have coconut drink... since it was so hot and everyone oso 'hot'...

The 'Natural' spoon

After 'marketing' we went to shop at ParkCity.. On our way there, Jia Feng told us about the story of ParkCity... It goes like this....

Once upon a time, there's this girl named Siti. She has a habit of touching people. All of the people who stays near here are afraid of her touching them. Hence, one day, all of them decided to build a buidling to protect themself against Siti. SO, they name it as "Pa Siti" (Translated as afraid of Siti)... which also sounds like ParkCity... 'Sweat rite???'

Neway, inside ParkCity, Pei Xian met her not so 'true love'...

Too bad.. He's 2 years younger and he's in Bintulu.. else they have to name the building as 'ParkAdeline'

Soon after shopping... we went to Jia Feng house to get all the food for BBQ later... Then, Jia Feng went to prepare for the BBQ whilst the rest of us went to Taman Tumbina Bintulu. Tumbina actually comes from the word Tumbuhan + Binatang... (talk bout creativity..) We didn't take much pic there coz our cameraman is not around. Neway, there's nothing much interesting there.. at least for me... mayb coz we skipped a lot of animals and plant. You can't blame us.. the road sign is not clear.. the direction is also blur... so... let's just make it fast..

After the visit to the aniants (animal + plants) <-- english version of tumbina... we headed to the beach for BBQ... once again.. the scenary is so so so nice.. so 'kong bu'...

Jia Feng's two younger sister, Cindy at the back and Agnes in the front

Jia Feng's older brother

3 'Supermans'.. but why no underwear outside???

Guess who's that person???

After BBQ, we went to the 'dunno wat walkway'.. beside Parkway hotel. The best hotel in Bintulu. Took a lot of pic there... esp Ah Bee... his display pic in MSN now is taken from there...

Fear Factor @ Bintulu

During the nite, we were suppose to see the port - where they process natural gas, from the hilltop. but, unfortunately, the peak is too dark and dangerous so we didn't get to view the scenary... Soon after that, we went for yum cha session... It's called 'Seribu Bintang'. The design, and architecture of the restaurant is unique but not the food... Then, around 2am, we hit back home, get ready for our journey to Sibu...

Wat's more to yearn, if you already have the whole blood with you???

Trip to Sarawak - Day 5

2008-01-17T19:17:00.001+08:00

Day 5: Miri + Bintulu
12th January 2008

As i mentioned earlier.. we woke up at 6am.. Moved out from hotel at 7am. Had Beef Noodle as breakfast. The soup smells nice and the beefball is very springy... But too bad.. i had throat infection so didn't get to really enjoy this meal. Soon after that, we went to Gua Niah. The Park is one of Sarawak's smaller national parks. The park's main claim to fame is its role as one of the birthplaces of civilisation in the region. The oldest modern human remains discovered in Southeast Asia were found at Niah, making the park one of the most important archaeological sites in the world. We had to take a motorboat to cross a very small river (summore had to pay RM1 each..) then walk the forest trail before reaching the Cave. The whole journey is 4.2km, and to my amusement, we walked 8.4km... but it was worth it..

On our way... we saw a snake.... luckily no one was injured..
PS: To those going to the cave, please discharge all your body liquid and solids before going in. Because there's no proper toilet in there and you have to walk 8.2km before you can discharge... (That's wat happened to me.. gan chiong :P)

Came out from the cave at 5pm. Everyone was drop dead tired. Not only due to the walking.. but also lack of sleep. Who asked us to go karaoke yesterday... But Adrin, Wei Rung and Jia Feng still managed to drive 100km back to Miri.. A round of applause for them!!! When reached Miri, we went to the 'Hanging Bridge'.. It's just like the Bukit Cagar we used to have in JB. Except that it's more beautiful and hi tech... That was the last tourist spot we went in Miri.

Before going to Bintulu, the gals took shower at Xiao Zhen's house whilst the guys at Wei Rung's house. I would like to take the opportunity here to extend a zillion of thanks to them. Without them, Miri will not be the Miri we see... Soon, at 9pm, we boarded on the bus, heading towards Jia Feng's house... Bintulu...

We reached at about 1am. He had everything arranged. The moment we reached bus stand, his daddy, brother, and mum were there to pick us up. You must be thinking, we will sleep when we reach his house.. but you are WRONG!!! We went for supper despite so tired. BUT...IT was WORTH IT.... the best Chicken leg we have in the whole Malaysia... Even Ah Bee gave his virginity to it.. Besides Fried Chicken Leg, the Fried Egg is also nice. It's called 'san se jian dan'.. it is a combination of salted egg, pi dan, and chicken egg. Mayb wanna try cook at home.. :P The supper is so 'homely'....

finished everything....

Finally, after filling our stomach, we went to bed...

The more precious thing is what we encounter together, despite the thick and thin, the high and low, the long and short.

Trip to Sarawak - Day 4

2008-01-17T02:57:00.000+08:00

Day 4: Miri
11th January 2008

Woke up at 7am for breakfast at 8am. We went to Miri's market for breakfast, and before i forget, there's sumthing i must mention. Usually people will find parking in white box, but drivers in Miri parks in yellow box. And their motorist will halt in the middle of the road to pick up a phone call. Back to the story, we reached market and ordered food. Guess wat... Observe this picture...

Did you see wat i see????
(Everyone's eating the same thing - Char Kuey Tiaw)

After breakfast, we went to visit Miri Handicraft Centre.

Group Pic

We're flying??

At about 12pm... we had nowhere to go.. so we went for lunch... although still feeling very full.. When arrived, we went to buy 4D and toto. Hoping to get some money so that we can go Brunei so that Mei Shan get to see her Wu Chun..
As we were walking.. we passed by a bread shop. so... when a group of tourist get together and they see weird food, they will buy it even if they are still full... We ended up with breads worth RM21.00....

But we didn't eat those pastries and bread... We went back to the Nasi Lemak shop.. But 2 ppl share one plate.. else sure very bloated.. I'll upload the pic when i get it.. Neway, the Nasi Lemak is not very nice.. but not very bad either. I prefer the one in JB.

After lunch, around 1.30pm... we went to get our car. Mei Shan, Pei Xian, Ah Bee, me and Jia Feng sat in a car. the rest followed Adrin's car. Something happened there.. Jia Feng locked the clutch and brake with a Solex Lock (because Miri is not a safe town). Then when he wanna unlock it.. he realised he cant because he locked it upside down.. We were stucked there for 15 minutes. it was scary but funny at the same time... After that car locked incident, we went to the beach. (at 2pm) It was supposed to be hot.. but i dunno why.. it's not that HOT after all...

The guys

The gals

A small man with ambition as huge as the sea

The bridge

After the first beach, we went to the 2nd beach.. it's a private port for private yatch.. there's a lot of rich man in Miri.. Trust me... Since it is a private port, we cant stay there for long. After 15 minutes, we moved to the next beach. Where we ate all the pastries and bun we bought earlier today...

Yippie

Chasing the Sun

After visiting 3 beaches, we went to golf resort, also near the beach. We were suppose to stay there but the resort is fully booked so we had to stay in town. The resort is just atypical resort in Malaysia... hence, nothing much to talk about...

Adrin and me

Jia Feng

We headed back to the hotel to rest and get ready for the evening. We had dinner at a cafe. We ate Apple Chicken Chop Rice, Thai Style Fish, Fried Rice, Signature Toufu, and a plate of Vege. The Fried Rice is so much that one person's portion can satisfy 4 pax. And it's cheap... only RM4 per plate... The rest of the dishes are common and available here. After dinner, we went to visit the 'Grand Old Lady'. It's the first oil well in Malaysia. It's night view is very nice oo... and this is wat we did in the dark...
The nite is still young... So... we headed off to Miri's Karaoke... Rex Box... It's REX BOX.. not Red Box... Then at around 2.30am.. we went for supper.. Roti John. Miri's Roti John is wet.. not the normal crispy bread we eat here in Melaka.. Finally.. we slept at 4am despite knowing that we'll have to wake up at 6am the next day...

Time may snatch away my youth, but never my voice. It will always sound the same regardless of time and place.

Trip to Sarawak - Day 3

2008-01-17T02:32:00.000+08:00

Day 3: Miri
10th January 2008

We reached Miri at about 11.30am. The rest of them have reached earlier and went to visit some places before Jia Feng and me reached. We meet up with them at a chicken rice stall in Miri. Wei Rung, Jia Feng's friend, Adrin's friend (complicated) will be our tourist guide for the coming 2 days. He brought us to that chicken rice stall for lunch. According to him, this is the cheapest and most delicious chicken rice shop in town. It's only RM2.70 per plate, including soup. After the lunch, we went to check-in into a hotel. It's a small inn, but comfortable and cheap. Soon around 2pm, we went to Miri Crocodile Farm and Mini Zoo.

At the entrance (Sea horse is Miri's mascot)

There, we saw crocodiles... a lot of them, monkeys, raccoon, parrot... and other animals. But what caught our attention was this little monkey in a cage with two other monkeys, one female and another male.

The baby monkey

We tried to feed this little monkey with banana, but he was too afraid to grab hold of that banana. coz the moment he takes it, the other two bigger monkey will hit him. So, all 10 of us (Ah Bee didn't go because he was sick - so sissy :P) did all we can to feed the baby monkey. And after 30 minutes of actions, WE DID IT!!! he ate 2 pieces of bananas. After looking at those animals, Gui Yan, Siao Zhen, Michael, Sam, Jia Feng tried out the 'crocodile herbal soup'. Ask them how it taste like...

Delicious?

After the mini zoo, we went to the beach. But before that we went back to pick Ah Bee from the hotel. He vomitted... haih... Soon after that, we headed off to the beach. Tanjong. By the time we reached there, we're just in time for sunset.

After sunset, we had dinner by the sea. We ate paku pakis (again), fried chicken wing, sumthing with shell, and ikan bakar. I dun remember if we took any pic.. but it's common dishes.. so that meal was not extremely nice or special but it's the most expensive we took there.. But... we all we very full... :)

We went shopping later. The shopping centre there is common... Nothing special as compared to watever they have in KL. After shopping, went for 'cook fry noodle'. It's a type of noodle where they fry it first then only boil it with gravy. To me, it tasted like hokkien mee. Then, went back to hotel and wrap the day up...

It is often impossible to do things alone, be it meningful or not, treasure the one who went through all with you.

Trip to Sarawak - Day 2

2008-01-16T10:42:00.000+08:00

day 2: Kuching + way to Miri
9th January 2008

On the second day to Kuching, we departed from the hotel at around 730am for breakfast. It's Sarawak Laksa.. Yummy... and i drank peppermint tea. Then, we went to Sarawak Cultural Village. Reached there at about 11am. The admission is only RM 15 for students. So, next time if you were to go, remember to bring your student ID along. it happens that there'll be a cultural show at 11.30am, so we went into the hall to watch the show. Towards the end of the show, Pei Xian got caught to go on stage. She was asked to blow the pipe to hit a balloon.

Cultural Dance

Pei Xian blowing the pipe

Group pic before taking off.. (i'm the camera gal)

After the show, we went into the villages there.

The swing underneath the Malay House

on a bridge near the Bidayuh's House
4 Men Posing at Bidayuh's Porch

By the time we finish visiting the houses, it's already 3pm. We are all hungry but luckily we bough some bread. Then, we went to the beach but they closed it and we cant stay there for long. So, we decided to go to Santubong's water fall. By the time we reached the waterfall, it's already 430pm. We couldn't play much with the water there. But it was still very nice as the water is clear and cold... The scenery was fantastic although we did not reach the top. But never mind, I'm sure next time we'll go there well equipped to go to the summit :) To those who wore slippers throughout the journey, good job.... :p

Flowing water at Santubong

PS: For more information on Cultural Village and Santubong, visit Ah Jian's blog.. akiraceo.blogspot.com

We reached hotel around 7pm. Only Jia Feng and me bathed because we will move to miri tonite by bus whilst the rest go by plane. Only both of us are poor :( After got ready, we went for dinner at a place near bus stand. It's a hawker centre, with lots of food. Finally, we get to eat kolok mee... Ah bee loves it so much.. that he cant stop praising it throughout the journey... Besides kolok mee, we ordered Cendol, Mentahon, and White Lady (which Ah bee pronounce as white lely), zhu chap (not very nice), satay (pork and chicken). After the dinner, Ah Jian sent me and Jia Feng to the bus station. We waited till 9pm then board on the bus. it's a 14 hours journey to Miri.

It shows how tired i was

When we move as one, we leave as one, we share the joy and the pain, the laughter and the tears

Trip to Sarawak - Day 1

2008-01-16T09:20:00.000+08:00

Day 1: Kuching
8th January 2008

Went to Melaka Sentral at 7am. Darius sent me and ah bee to Melaka Sentral.
Departed from Melaka at 8am. Took Tai Lye bus to Tampin. Reached Tampin at about 10am. Sam's mum picked us up from Tampin bus station then headed to her house. Departed from their house at 10.30am. We saw a train passing by on our way to LCCT.

Reached LCCT at about 11.30am. Went to meet Gui Yan, Michael, Pei Xian, and Mei Shan. Checked in at 1.20pm. Flight departed at 2.10pm. We reached Kuching at 3.15pm. Faster than the estimated time.

When reach, we met Jia Feng. It's been so long since we last met... Then, Ah Jian arrived. Followed by his 3 other frens, whom i forgot their names... :P We checked into Orchid Inn at Green Hill (which we checked out on the same day) then went for lunch. Sarawak Cendol, Lemon+Sugar Cane, Sea Coconut+sumthing, Tomato Mee (Kuching Mee), Belacan Mee Hun, Sotong Kangkung, Fried Carrot Cake. All this costs us less that RM 5 per pax.

ABC

Cendol

Sotong Kangkung

Belacan Mee Hun
Fried Carrot Cake
Tomato Mee (Kuching Mee)

Went for a walk around that area after those sumptuous yet cheap lunch. There's a lot of Cafe and shop in Kuching with funny names.. For example, '我家包店', The Office, Bla Bla Bla..., and many others which i dun remember. After that, we took picture with Kuching's mascot: The white cat near the roundabout.

doorknob of a cafe

We too saw the board showing parking rules.. It only cost then 20cents per hour and if the time exceeded, the compound is only 83 cents. so cheap as compared to the rate in KL or JB, or even Melaka.

At around 7pm, we went to visit the river which seperates Kuching to north and south. A lot of stalls selling Sarawak Gambir there... Then, it's dinner time again... went to a chinese shop for ma la mee (spicy noodle), we didn't eat much because we came here to try not to fill up our stomach as we'll have another round later.

I dun understand why they choose to put green lights

the spicy noodle

Soon after sight seeing, we went to find another hotel because the earlier one which we checked in is not very pleasing.. Then we found Borneo Hotel. Checked in and went out for dinner... We went to the so called 'open air', where there's a lot of stalls and variety of food. We ate Paku Pakis (Pei Xian's favourite in Sarawak), Fried Oyster (which looks like fried prawn crackers), and siew bi (filled with seafood, not meat), as for drinks, we drank 3 coloured teh si. Then, we headed off to rest. However, since all the 7 (excluding Sam) of us share a room, it's not until 2am when all of us slept. Thanks for the story telling session by Pei Xian :P

Leftover of Paku Pakis

Fried Oyster

Snatch for FOOD!!!

People do change over time, but not the bond which binds us together

tagged by tele + bio idol

2008-01-16T00:32:00.000+08:00

Tagged: Q & A
Time : 12.40AM
Doing : chatting and trying to blog
Wish to say : Thanks for THe SwEeT SwEeT MeMoRies~~
Mood: exhausted, sad and happy~
Place : Room In BeaR hILl
Why blogging this : first tag by tele + bio idol.. must blog lar~~

Rules and regulations
Remove 1 question from below, and add in your personal question, make it total 20 questions, then tag to 5 people in your list, list them out at the end of this post. Notify them in their chat box that he/she had been tag. Whoever did the tag will have blessing from all.You must link to the one who tag you, then spread it to 5 people, let’s the game go on, return the tag to sender is prohibited.

1. What is your dream during your childhood?
~~ Professional Pianist@Musician

2. You like rainy day or sunny day? Why?
~~ Rainy... Turns on the artistic side of my brain

3. What color that u prefer?
~~ yellow

4. What song are you into now?
~~ Piano duets

5. Where is the place you wanted to go most? Why?
~~ Vienna.. City of ARt~~

6. Which part of you that you hate most?
~~ all i oso love ooo~~

7. When you encounter a sad moment, what would you do?
~~ Write it out

8. What do you scare to loss the most?
~~ People or things which i love and care

9. If you meet someone that you love, would you confess to him/her? Or just keep secret in heart, observing by yourself?
~~ Do not know what is 'love'

10. Which do you prefer: sunrise on the mountain or sunset by the sea?
~~ Sunset by the sea

11. If you are forced to let go something, what would it be?
~~ myself

12. Till now, what is the moment that you regret most?
~~ Avoiding the person whom i love

13. Which type of person you hate most?
~~ Liar

14. What is your ambition?
~~ Live life to the fullest with each day filled with only laughter & joy

15. What is the thing that will make you think he/she is bad.
~~ facial expression

16. If you can have 1 dream to come true, what would it be?
~~ My grandma to live longer than me

17. Chinese New Year is coming, who would like to celebrate with?
~~ my grandma

18. What would you do if stress?
~~ Write, play piano, talk to someone

19. At what age do you wish to marry?
~~ + - 30

20. What is a blog means to you?
~~ a page where ppl keep track of you.. where you share knowledge & experience

You're Tagged
i) Mei Shan
ii) Pei Xian
iii) Cindy Tan
iv) Ah Bee
v) Hsien Yun

Video..

2008-01-07T18:27:00.001+08:00

I'm so sry because i did not update my blog for ages~~ (seems like ages) The last week of 2007, i was busy preparing for the final on 31st Dec, hence did not mange to update it. Then, i went back to hometown on the 1st Jan, till today.. and will b going to Sarawak tomorrow. So, just a short update of my achievement last week :) I finally finish playing that song from the movie "Secret". I only managed to begged my brother to record it once for me, so it is not the best, but at least better than nothing.. So, enjoy the music.

PS: I wonder why am i still here although i've played that song. Aren't i suppose to go to the future, 20 years later :P

Sorry for the quality.. any idea how to improve it? and my piano didn't tune for 3 years d.. so... :P just make do with it lar~~ Btw.. i posted it in youtube.. more clear lo... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j5vUsTURuPA

Christmas

2007-12-26T04:54:00.000+08:00

I've been celebrating Christmas for 21 years.. But then again.. It is only this year when i realise that i did not know the history of this celebration and how true it is that Jesus's birth is to be celebrated on the 25th of December...

Hence, i've browse on some sites and again.. i make my own summary of Christmas which i wish to share with my frens... No Christmas gift from me.. but i hope this will help~~ I'll make it as short as possible...

Pre-Christmas
The middle of winter has long been a time of celebration around the world. Centuries before the arrival of the man called Jesus, early Europeans celebrated light and birth in the darkest days of winter. In Scandinavia, the Norse (Norwegian) celebrated Yule from December 21, the winter solstice, through January. The end of December was a perfect time for celebration in most areas of Europe. At that time of year, most cattle were slaughtered so they would not have to be fed during the winter. In Germany, people honored the pagan god Oden (a God of death and wealth in gold) during the mid-winter holiday. In Rome, where winters were not as harsh as those in the far north, Saturnalia—a holiday in honor of Saturn, the god of agriculture—was celebrated. Also around the time of the winter solstice, Romans observed Juvenalia, a feast honoring the children of Rome. Members of the upper classes often celebrated the birthday of Mithra, the god of the unconquerable sun, on December 25. It was believed that Mithra, an infant god, was born of a rock. For some Romans, Mithra's birthday was the most sacred day of the year.

Origin of Date and Name
The word for Christmas in late Old English is Cristes Maesse, the Mass of Christ, first found in 1038, and Cristes-messe, in 1131.
It is unknown exactly when or why December 25 became associated with Christ's birth. The New Testament does not give a specific date. Thus, the date as a birthdate for Christ is traditional, and is not considered to be his actual date of birth.

In conclusion, Christmas festivities often combine the commemoration of Jesus' birth with various cultural customs, many of which have been influenced by earlier winter festivals. Although a Christian holiday, it is also observed as a cultural holiday by many non-Christians. The prominence of Christmas Day increased gradually after Charlemagne (Father of Europe) was crowned on Christmas Day in 800. Around the 12th century, the remnants of the former Saturnalian traditions of the Romans were transferred to the Twelve Days of Christmas (25 December - 5 January). Christmas during the Middle Ages was a public festival, incorporating ivy, holly, and other evergreens, as well as gift-giving.

Ok.. since Christmas is to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, then why Santa Claus?

Santa Claus

The legend of Santa Claus can be traced back hundreds of years to a monk named St. Nicholas. It is believed that Nicholas was born sometime around 280 A.D. in Patara, near Myra in modern-day Turkey. Much admired for his piety and kindness, St. Nicholas became the subject of many legends. It is said that he gave away all of his inherited wealth and traveled the countryside helping the poor and sick. One of the best known of the St. Nicholas stories is that he saved three poor sisters from being sold into slavery or prostitution by their father by providing them with a dowry so that they could be married. Over the course of many years, Nicholas's popularity spread and he became known as the protector of children and sailors. The name Santa Claus evolved from Nick's Dutch nickname, Sinter Klaas, a shortened form of Sint Nikolaas (Dutch for Saint Nicholas). However, the modern depiction of Santa Claus as a fat, jolly man (or elf) wearing a red coat and trousers with white cuffs and collar, and black leather belt and boots, became popular in the US in the 19th century due to the significant influence of caricaturist and political cartoonist Thomas Nast. So, basically.. Santa Claus has nothing to do with Christianity..

Rudolph - the red nose reindeer

I'm sure everyone has heard of the song, 'Rudolph the red nose reindeer, has a very shiny nose...' But does Rudolph really exist? The red-nosed wonder was the creation of Robert L. May, a copywriter at the Montgomery Ward department store. In 1939, May wrote a Christmas-themed story-poem to help bring holiday traffic into his store. May told the story of Rudolph, a young reindeer who was teased by the other deer because of his large, glowing, red nose. But, When Christmas Eve turned foggy and Santa worried that he wouldn't be able to deliver gifts that night, the former outcast saved Christmas by leading the sleigh by the light of his red nose. Rudolph's message—that given the opportunity, a liability can be turned into an asset—proved popular. Several years later, one of May's friends, Johnny Marks, wrote a short song based on Rudolph's story (1949). It was recorded by Gene Autry and sold over two million copies. So, sorry to have your fantasy broken~~

Nevertheless, Christmas is still widely celebrated, perhaps, another holiday is better than none. And several writers have wrote stories about Christmas to keep the spirit burning. One of the all time favourite is "The Christmas Carol" but Charles Dickens. I've found a website containing this story online. If you have the time, go read on it.. it really helps recharge your faith and hope... http://www.literature.org/authors/dickens-charles/christmas-carol/index.html

Lastly, i came across an article whose title was: Santa: The First Great Lie. It started with the line, "The basic cause of all mankind's flaws is a lack of trust. We have lost faith. We do not know who to believe. We do not know who to trust." but then, it ended with, "The Santa Claus conspiracy is the first conundrum we encounter on a lifetime journey of losing faith, and that's the only thing in life you can trust - the true and certain knowledge that you can't believe in anything."

Hence, never lose Trust, Faith and Hope...

~~MErRy CHrIsTmaS to ALL~~~