em0-m0nk3y

my kids, my endurance!

2010-07-31T18:08:00.002+08:00

This morning was the Fitness Run Day for teachers in my cluster.
We had the option of running 2.4km or walk 2km.
I chose 2.4km.

Seriously, the last time I ran that much was our school's annual fitness run at the beginning of this term, which I almost died. I recalled how torturous it was to run 2.4km back in JC, and the stupid teacher forced me to get at least a silver, even though it was unnecessary for me since I'm not going for NS. Still, I'm glad I got my silver in the end.

Seriously, I dun really know if Ive poor physical stamina or simply low mental stamina.
I've always been a sprinter since young, but I've just cant run long distance.

This morning, I wanted to give up in the fifth lap. I had to psycho myself. I began thinking about what motivates me, and I thought of my kids. I'd already finished four laps, two more laps to go. It's almost the end I tell myself.

Will give up on my kids halfway through the race? If this race represents my endurance for my kids, am I giving up on them on the last lap? NO! I told myself. I must not. I cant!

And I ran on till the end. I dunno how I did, but I'm glad I didnt give up when it's most important.

My kids, my pride, my endurance!

angelic relocation...

2010-03-26T23:14:00.003+08:00

I'm very proud of how my kids behaved last Wednesday when they were suddenly relocated to the Art room. I have to admit that I was rather moody that morning. The news came rather sudden, though I understand circumstances are hard to predict. I was upset knowing that I would most probably miss my EL lesson. It didn't help that we had to attend a total waste of time event the day before.

Upon checking out the Art room, I was pretty much lost at first, seeing how small the room was. I have the biggest class of 41 but I was given the smallest room. I had to cook up a way to fit my babies in the small space, which I did.

What soothes my frustration and day was how angelic my kids were throughout the whole process. I expected complaints and all sorts of nonsense, but interestingly, they comply obediently. I shed new light about them that day.

When I requested for 7 boys to volunteer carrying their tables over, it was done in seconds. The girlz waited quietly outside while the boys took initiative to help set up the classroom. They were sardine-packed yet they did not utter a word of displeasure.

I told them how proud I am of them, and I sincerely meant it. It might be trivial matter, but it meant a lot to me - to know that my kids can behave and adapt to unfavourable situations.

although i cant help but to wonder if they had behaved that way because I stepped into class and said, " I'm not in a very good mood today. Don't mess with me."

hmm... ~scratch head~

My babies!!!

2010-02-21T21:07:00.003+08:00

It has been almost a year since I last posted. Many things happened, good and bad but i shan't dwell much into it.

I'm now entering the eighth week of my teaching career. It hasn't been easy I must say. Struggling every step of the way, learning to compromise on things I love to do, and having to make decisions every now and then.

I'm the class mentor of 3A - my very first batch of babies. Yupz, that's what I call them - my babies, all 41 of them. I look forward to the day they graduate from JVSS, and hopefully by then, they've grown to be young men and women.

We had our very first quarterly birthday celebration on 12 February 2010, the last day of school before the CNY. I was looking forward to the event the entire week, looking forward to have our first class photo taken. Well, that didn't happen after all. The celebration proceeded but I was only present at the later part. By then, some of them had left school.

Frankly, I was extremely upset that day. A last minute meeting cropped up and I needed to attend it. When I found out, I had every intention to speak my mind, that my class comes first and I don't care if I will be viewed as uncooperative. Maybe it's just a celebration to some, but to me, it was an opportunity for my class to let loose and chill - our family time. It took a lot out of me to swallow my anger and accede to the meeting but even then, my disgruntled expression was emminent according to YK.

How well, the meeting ended and I caught up with my class. Some left, but at least I got to enjoy the cakes with my babies. A consolation I guess, better than nothing.

When I reflected on it, I guess this is the realism of working life. I wish I could spend more time with my kids but the never-ending work makes things difficult. What will I do then?

hmm...

Liberation! Aching!

2009-05-25T10:10:00.006+08:00

Ok, it's been a long time since I last posted.
So much has happened; the good, the bad, they come as a package!
Treading through, i felt a sense of growth and improvement in myself, though I cant really pinpoint where i've grown.

Assignments are finally over, as of last week. "Kawabanggga," I would say.

I've been posted to Fajar Sec for my practicum, but the school does not offer one of the subject I teach. Will be calling MOE, so I'll probably be reposted to another school.
I just hope they don't post me somewhere inaccessible!

Have been dancing nonstop ever since last week, practically everyday, and now my body feels 60-years-old. Backaches, stiff necks, etc.

The next few months will be physically and mentally torturing. I've four performance, two of which I'm superbly low in confidence.

Danzpeople open house is pretty much settled, so I'm not worried.
Becky's item for Dancetitude has started, but the concert's in August, so easy easy.

What boggles me are The Big Groove (TBG) and Brooklyn's Rock (I think that's how you spell it).

Performing for the latter two is an honour frankly. TBG is an annual Asia Hip Hop convention and the finale concert showcases 2.5 hours of performances from various parts of Asia , as well as Singapore. Call me a big fat liar if I say I'm least than afraid.

The immense pressure of performing on the same stage as titans if uncalled for. Carrying Danzpeople's name fuels the fear even more. What if I screw up? I'm so prone to screwing up. No, I can't screw up! I'll be skinned alive; that's considered merciful.

Then there's the extreme sense of inferiority performing on the same stage with Xiao, Erwin, Ahmad, Becky and Lina. They've had tons of experience compared to poor lil me. Sigh, I'm really fearful of letting everyone down.

I guess Yvonne & Zi Li (I think tt's how you spell her name) feels the same pressure under the shadow of Becky and Lina.

Caught this on my first try at the new mall in Bugis, Iluma. So damn cute! And best of all, it's wearing a green top. Unlike the conventional poohbear, its face looks bear-ish, if you know what I mean. haha!

Xiao said something which strikes me. He said I need to focus more on my lines. I've always thought my main problem was my sense of musicality. Maybe I've been too caught up with catching the beat that I compromised on my lines. Perhaps I should feel the music instead of trying to make sense of it with my mind.

" jOzACh want to learn to dance from the heart and not the mind"

EMCC + Assignments + PA + Priscilia's Bday

2009-02-16T17:24:00.011+08:00

Alright, it's been a rather eventful past week.

First off, DANCE!

JDC concert is coming in March, so practises with NIE Dancefuzion will get more intense I guess. Went for BLAST! Exxonmobil Campus Concert last wednesday and the performance turned out to be surprisingly good. Felt great to be back in NUS again.

The whitehoods did funny stunts between intervals and the stunts turned out very entertaining. BLAST! never ceased to surprise me with creative ideas, such novelty in them. Watching them dance, I reminisce over the good old days and I can't wait for BLAST! to resume. Rock on BLASTards!

Good seats: Chris, myself, I'dil, Seok & Seok's bf

Donk crew from Shut Up & Dance '08

BLAST photo (I'm so gonna kill Daryl for the photo quality)

Next up, assignments has begun to set in. So far so good, but things are only getting more hectic. Elements of Business Skills (EBS) began today, and the first assignment is out: marketing kit. My group of 7 members are required to come up with an introductory presentation to trigger interest in the subject. It's gonna be fun, but time-consuming.

Oh, by the way, I met up with a few of my JC mates last Sunday. We had dinner in IMM, to celebrate Way Champ's 25th birthday. It was great seeing them again, but they look stressed out. Sigh, I guess that's what people say growing up will turn out to be. Champ says I've changed, and got over my dark days, but I think I'm still the same.

Instead, I'm more worried about them. The pursue of career is making life rather sour for them. At least, that's what I feel. So my new mission for the rest of this year is to meet up with them as much as possible and lend a listening ear.

My dear friends, I hope we'll still be good friends when our hair are all grey and wrinkles carve our face.

Myself, Chris, Champ & Gladys

My dance days have now increased from three days a week to four days a week. I've been wanting to join PA dance but lack the courage to show face. But now, I'm officially attending it. I gotta say that it was very tough. Pat taught 12 eights in two hours and I was losing strength and concentration towards the end.

After PA, I rushed down to Priscilia's birthday in Chevron. Met a lot of ex-Westwoodians. Bought hamsters for her, and I fear for their life expectancy. She's very much terrified by them. The girl's call 'Priscy' but the boy has yet to be named. Should I call it 'Luffy?'

Happy 17th Birthday Priscilia!!!

Melissa, Priscilia, Deborah, myself & the hamsters we bought for her.

Dancepointe with Hello Kitty cake

Dauntless good? Nagging good?

2009-02-06T02:13:00.008+08:00

NIE is beginning to get more hectic! Assignments are piling up, and I'm rather laid back. Am I procrastinating?

ICT e-learning Assignment 10% (13 Feb 09)
ICT Individual Assignment 40% (23 Feb 09)
ICT Group Assignment 40% (23 Mar 09)

Ed Psych Forum 0% (15 Feb 09)
Ed Psych e-learning Assignment 0% (19 Feb 09)
Ed Psych Individual Assignment 60% (13 Apr 09)
Ed Psych Group Assignment 40% (26 Mar 09)

Language Studies Podcast (???)
Pedagogical Grammar Test (5 March 09)

EBS Assigments?

Went back WWSS to see 4Desperados today. Finally gave out the stickers after holding it for so long. They might be 4Dauntless now, but I still prefer 4 Desperados. I would rather believe that they're desperate to do well in their O-level.

Dauntless might dictate fearlessness, but if fearlessness means them not worried about their studies, I detest that name. The bible has a saying, that 'The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge.' I'm not a believer, but I do believe that fear makes a person wiser. Only when you've experienced fear do you truly reflect on your actions and mistakes.

If you've lost a love one, or on the brink of losing one, that's when you start to appreciate what you have. I never did appreciate my k-pa when he was alive, always finding him annoying and disturbing, but when he fell sick and changed, I missed his old-self. And when he passed away, it hurts very deeply, and every now and then, when I think of him, my heart weeps and I fear losing my k-ma.

My dear 4Dauntless, do you not worry for your future? Have you thought through how you'll reach for your ambition? If you wait until the very last minute to panick, it might all be too late. And then what? I see potential in many of you, but if you don't harness them, what will become of them?

Frankly, I feel rather helpless sometimes. I joined the teaching profession because I want to change lives and make a difference. Many people would probably find that a model answer, but that is what I really want to do. But having gone through contract teaching for half a year, or less, I struggled to do so. It is so difficult to translate my care and concern for the students, when they don't seem to understand what I'm worrying about. And along the way, I've become a naggy fella; nagging endlessly.

It was then that I understood nagging is form of love language, so to speak. Just as parents nagged because they're worried about us, I nagged my students, because I'm worried about them. Funny huh?

CNY '09 in Kuching

2009-01-30T15:03:00.005+08:00

Went back Kuching for CNY last Saturday.

Had open house on the first day. Dad catered from one of his Malay colleagues, and the food turned out extremely tasty. I can still taste the juicy beef cubes in my mouth.

It's been years and we've grown, in many ways. haha! Still, I miss the good old days we spent in St Thomas Secondary School.

Fellow Thomians

The best surprise of the day for me was the appearance of Madam Cynthia Maria Zehnder, my secondary school teacher, and one of the great teachers who've been there for me, during my down times. She's in her sixties, and she's still her bubbly old self. Her mum, whose a 'datin' is not very well unfortunately and she has to attend to her needs, rendering little sleep and loads of worries.

Mdm Cynthia & her grandchildren

How well, things were rather busy with only few days to celebrate. Rushing from one visit to another, switching between groups of friends, and wishing holidays were longer.

Got back last Saturday and classes resume as per normal. There are a number of deadlines due in February and I think I should start reading up. Haha!

Quest for HTC Touch Diamond/Pro

2009-01-23T15:17:00.007+08:00

Had ICT lesson in the morning, after which some of the Bond members went for a game of squash. Played a game with Ben and lost. Haha! Treated him to Mega Mac lunch. Felt great playing squash again after so long.

Currently slacking in NIE library! Everyone is dreading the long gap between lessons. Here's a peak of what's going on now:

Ben doodling on CangXuan's paper.

Reuben sleeping soundly

Waiting to attend GESL lecture later in the evening. After that, my quest for my new phone commences. I'm not stuck between HTC Touch Diamond or HTC Touch Pro. All thanks to Dad who insist Pro is better than Touch; the price is better too unfortunately! Hopefully, I'll end up with a reliable gadget.

Will be flying back tomorrow night for CNY. Hope it'll be a fun trip back, catching up with family and friends. Sadly, I'll only be back for a short trip. How well, better than nothing I guess.

Officially started tuition with Elaine and Aaron. Quite an enlightening session, I learn new things along the way, especially about dyslexia.

Tiring day!

2009-01-22T00:09:00.003+08:00

Here's a picture of Zhemin, Angela, GuiLian and me. CONGRATULATIONS!!!

p/s Zhemin dislikes taking photos with flashes! Good way to irritate her!

Taa daa! My new GREEN specs! Beautiful! Magnificient!

Still, there were scratches on some part of the rims, and they've agreed to change the frame for me when stock comes in.

Rushed down to get my HTC Touch Diamond, but apparently, there wasn't any stock. Hence, I need to wait till this Friday.

Zoomed over to Orchard to find my hungry sisters, who're patiently waiting for me. Went to Chinatown after that, and the place was crowded. Picture of my Big Sis, whom I respect a lot.

Mother of two sons, she's the Financial Comptroller of Hilton Hotel, Kuching branch. Among all my other foster siblings, I'm closest to her. She's not as square-minded like others her age, which is why I can talk about my dreams without the fear of being put down or criticized.

Aaron came over and practised maths with Elaine today. Wasn't around, so I don't know the progress. I'm really curious at what sparks his sudden interest in studying. hmm...

Chatting with Reuben, my fellow GESL groupmate, and he's one funny fella. Extremely easy to irritate and tease. Haha! Ben pulled a prank on him last Friday, and he took it for real. I was rolling in tears and he still didn't realise Ben was putting up a show.

Alright! It's late and I've got a class tomorrow.

HTC Touch Diamond

2009-01-21T14:52:00.006+08:00

Stuck in NIE, waiting for GuiLian, Zhemin and Angela to finish their NIE graduation. Sigh, needed to get 'Educational Psychology' book from GuiLian. take some photos with them also of course. Cam-whores!

Then I'll head out to town to hopefully get my new phone. May I not be so fickle-minded! The Sony Ericsson W902 walkman is so cheap now, but my heart has swayed for a smartphone. So far, I'm eyeing HTC Touch Diamond, but I want to have a feel of the phone first before deciding.

HTC Touch Diamond

Once I'm done, I'll go look for Big Sis, who is in town for a meeting. Third sis is staying over with her in Hilton tonight, but I'm not keen. I've got classes tomorrow, sadly.

Aaron called me to tutor him Algebra yesterday. Haha! Feels kinda adorable in some way, to receive a call out of the blue, and being asked to teach him algebra. haha! Maybe he's finally come to his senses.

Wish 4 Desperados would be more serious! Went back school yet again, but still unable to see them as a class. From the feedback I get, they're still fooling around a lot and complaining a lot. WAKE UP! Must you wait till O-level is around the corner, then panicked?

Had an idea yesterday to ask P to follow me back and share with 4Desperados her feelings and takings from O-level the year before. Maybe I can get B to help out as well. Nothings beats real life sharing from fellow peers. But I'll leave that till March or April.

I'm kinda happy that I'm fitting in with my QUE513 Pedagogical Grammar class lately. Besides Wanru, been feeling rather intimidated to be put in a class filled with Literature majors. Haha! They're a fun bunch I must say, though sometimes they talk about literature stuff, which I'm not very familiar with.

*** Oh oh, I forgot I'm supposed to collect my GREEN specs later from Spectacle Hut. Muahahaha!

humbling and learning experience!

2009-01-19T16:49:00.004+08:00

Alright, those who've seen me would probably know my hair is now freaking short! I hate to admit it, but I look more like a kid now. DARN! All thanks to the senseless lady, my er jie's new helper in the saloon. She dun seem to understand what you mean by 'trim it a LITTLE!' Sigh! How well, what's done is done!

To my students out there, note that teachers are not perfect beings. We are learning beings still, myself included, and this experience is teaching me to submit to a teacher's protocol, so to speak!

I have to admit that I was extremely angry at the point, so much so that I felt like lashing the lady with mercilessly. But, as usual, I'm not as assertive as I hoped to be. I swallowed my anger and can't wait to get out of the shop.

I was probably fuming but trying to be positive about the situation, I take it as a humbling experience. I have to confessed that I'm very particular about my hair. Up till now, I still long for my old hair style. I don't care if all of you think it's very 'ah beng' but it was something I was proud of.

Sadly, teachers can't keep such hairstyle, especially male teachers. This incident is probably an experience to drill me into a proper teacher. As much as I hate it, it's a discipline I will need to adopt.

In life, there are many things we will have to compromise for the sake of our career and dream. This is one of them. Another example will be uniform. What makes you think I like to wear formally? I prefer my baggy casual wear, but parents will probably be flabbergasted if their child's teacher is a 'hippy' fella. Image and impression is of importance I guess.

***

Ok, enough of my rambling! I've finally reorganized my room and its more spacious now. All I need to do now is greenify this cocoon of mine:

Green rug
Green bedsheets (and shades & at least 320 threadcount)
Green blanket?
Green bookholder
...

A couple of new additions to my green family:

Lime green Adidas Running Shoes

Dirty green Springfield jacket (Thkx 2 Noel's bday gift voucher!)

Bought a black tee with green PUMA print too! It's got to be green somehow. Haha!

List of future goods to seize:

Green specs (waiting for collection coming Wednesday! Woohoo!)
Green bag (Timbuktu has a nice one but its 300bucks! ~faint~)
Mobilephone (the moss green W902 is damn cheap now, but I've swayed to smartphones!)

NIE bond & Collin's Bday!

2009-01-16T01:27:00.006+08:00

Ok, I'm pretty much done blogging about the past months.

Anyway, I'm currently in NIE for my one year teacher training. Back to school again I guess. I'm having a hard time trying to figure out NIE system though, as its very different from NUS. Hopefully, I can settle all the schedule problem and work out my external plans. Will be giving tuition to Aaron and Elaine, and perhaps the 4 Desperados, if they want to. I still need to find time to go down Westwood. haha!

Group 9: BOND

Went JB last Monday and made 4 Desperados stickers for them. It was supposed to be a simple task, except the final product of the stickers wasn't up to expectation. The 4 Desperados stickers didn't look as nice as the displayed version and she kept insisting that customers preferred the other version. Well I don't!!!! Andwy, she made anther copy for me, so I'm happy! wahaha!

9 January 2009 - Collin's Birthday!

Went down Westwood to celebrate Collin's birthday which was actually the day before. Gathered for a short celebration @ Pizza Hut since it's CCA Day!

Fido Pizza Hut!

Happy Birthday bro!

dAnCepOInte peepz!

2009-01-16T00:26:00.006+08:00

Been hanging around a lot with fellow dancers from Dancepointe!

25 - 27 December 2008

Had our post-concert chalet!

Cam-whoring in the room!

It gets more crowded!

Tired after chalet!

Whilst everyone was still asleep, Rachel, Aaron and I sneaked off and made our way to Changi Airport to have our MacD breakfast! It was one memorable moment for me, who was having his first McGriddle breakfast. I have to say that it was heavenly; I'm so in love with McGriddle. haha!

31 December 2008 - New Year Celebration

Following the chalet, we had our New Year Celebration @ Rachel's place. I didn't take any photos unfortunately. I was too engrossed feasting on the food her parents prepared. I have to admit, and I believe the rest agrees with me, that her dad is one heck of a barbecue chef. The food was marinated and cooked just right. We were so damn impressed! If he opens a restaurant or BBQ outlet, I'll be a loyal patron.

3 January 2009 - Sentosa!

Headed down to Sentosa before everyone gets busy. The weather forecast wasn't pleasant, but we took the risk and went ahead. It turned out fine after all. Fooled around a lot. Played Frisbee, twister, random stunts, etc...

campfire dance?

A game of Twister. Boy, were we twisted!

Aaron and I before tragedy struck! (Limei in the background)

As foretold by the caption. The day didn't really end well. Aaron fell from the rocks harbouring Pahlawan Beach and cut his toe. He had abrasions over his limbs and was pretty much in pain. He teared while an old nurse was treating him, and we felt rather helpless to only be able to comfort him.

Tragedy! Casualty!

I brought him to Westpoint Hospital after we had dinner. It's better to have it checked up by specialist in case of infection. He took two stitches which cost a bomb. I wished I recorded the whole scene, where he was pretty much screaming and tearing and laughing. Odd huh!

Smiling in bed after the anaesthetic and stitches!

I wished the incident didn't occur but accidents do happen. I had to face his parents and explain the whole thing. It didnt help that his dad was not feeling well. How well, glad that everything's fine!

HongKong Cafe dinner!

the return! (Part two)

2009-01-15T16:11:00.010+08:00

Okay, i missed out quite a number of stuff prior to Part One, which i should blog so I can reminisce about it next time.

My brother's daughter, Victoria, came over and stayed with us for less than a week during the school holidays. I was rather excited because I don't get to see her very often. She lives in KL, where my brother and her wife operates a photocopying company.

She's very quiet, unlike my other nieces and nephews. She was rather shy with me in the beginning, sticking closely to my k-ma, but slowly, she got acquainted with me. Elaine and Vic and I played games of monopoly and all forms of childish games you can think of. I was kind of amazed how easily entertained and playful she can be.

Brought her and Elaine out to play while she was in town.

Changi Airport: w the teddy bear i bought her!

Fooling around in IKEA!

Puppet show @ IKEA!

Having Mickey-shaped pizza @ Disney

10 December 2008 - Magical Wonders Concert

Dancepointe had their Magical Wonders Concert in December. It was mostly ballet performances, with tinge of hiphop flavours. Joined Dancepointe in Oct 2008.

I was rather impressed by ballet, though I'm not a fan of it. It takes discipline to train and great sense of aptitude to be able to emit an aura of beauty. How well, I'll stick to hip hop! haha!

Got to know the rest of Dancepointe dancers better - the dolls and robots!

Was rather stressed to had to do a solo routine. Only got to know about it two days before concert. Worse yet, I didn't my solo right during tech runs and full dress rehearsals, so you can probably imagine how stressed out I was during the real show. Thankfully, I didn't mess up during the show, though I kinda regretted doing 'krump.' The music was too fast for me to emote krump feel to it.

Santa's Gift Item

The dolls

The rabbits!

James: Puss in the Boot!

James is one adorable kid! he plays Puss in the Boot, who's sent on a mission to look for Shrek's sweetheart. In one scene, he was supposed to fall asleep in a magical forest! Lo and behold, he ACTUALLY fell asleep on stage. Good thing it was only a tech run. haha!

The Return! (Part One)

2009-01-15T14:23:00.005+08:00

Okay okay, so I've been 'MIA-ing' since end November.

A lot of things happening since my last post.

Let's see!

12-14 December 2008 - Agape Retreat '08

Had Agape retreat @ Austin Hill Golf Club, Johor Bahru.

Goodness, the rooms were humongous! You can probably judged for yourself from the picture below. There were two king-sized beds and space was ample. Heck, Barnabas and Roy tried to play tennis in the room, only having hit poor me twice. Here comes the best part - the rates per night in the club is only RM190.

Agape forming a line to demonstrate how spacious the room is.

Oh, did I mention that the club has very nice jacuzzi, spa, etc...

Now here comes the sad part!

I didn't get to enjoy any of them b'cos I was down with fever and flu. I spend most of the time sleeping. Still, I tagged along and did my part in bargaining our taxi rides between destinations. Seriously, those taxi drivers are out to kill. They'll probably charged you double or triple the normal rates.

16 December 2008 - 2Crappy BBQ & Marcus Bday!

Amidst recovering from my illness, I dragged my feet all the way to East Cost Park to join 2Crappy's class BBQ!!! I had every intention to excuse myself from it (hello, I'm a sick!!!), but thankx to Zoe and company's persistence, I made my way down after all. You peepz just want the 50bucks right? hmph!

Coincidentally, it was also Marcus of 3Doodles's birthday. Thankx to CheeHong and Jason who came and dragged me over. It was good to see my students again in their true form. Haha! The 'Ah Lian' and 'Ah Beng' genes sprouting out as if it's so cool somehow. Haha!

Sorry, no pictures as I've not fully recovered, and wasn't in the mood to cam-whore!

17 December 2008 - FAINTED!!!

This is probably a day I'll never forget! And I hope I'll never experience it again!

I FAINTED IN THE MRT~!!! Who would have thought of it. Apparently, I had not been eating much since the chalet, resulting in low sugar level.

Lesson learnt: Always always eat your meals on time, even if you don't feel like it!!!

22 - 24 December 2008 - Family Chalet

My foster family was in town and we went Downtown East to bond. Booked two chalet but sadly, my third sister had to work. Celebrated by nephew's birthday as well.

Jeanie, Kelly, Ashley, Anthony and Victoria

It was tiring having to take care of them as they run around in Wild Wild Wet. Elaine and I were exhausted handling them, maybe even frustrated! haha! How well, it was fun and it's only once a year!

Friendster: About myself!

2008-11-25T19:36:00.002+08:00

Ok, so I'm bored and I decided to update my friendster. Gosh, I must be damn bored. Here's wad I wrote:

Who am I:

***PLAYFUL

People say I'm still a 10-year-old kid, despite being in my twenties. I dun tink there's anything wrong with that except for the fact that my superiors might not take me seriously, n probably under-evaluate me. But its alright since I'm not really concern about meeting expectations.

I can't help but fool around and do nonsense. You may tink I'm being a fool, but at least that fool puts a smile on your face.

A friend of mine once told me that I draw energy from the people around me. When I'm with people, my hyper-activity kicks in. But when i'm alone, I'm dead as a stone. I can't agree more.

***SIMPLE

I am a simple person (well, at least I tink I am). I don't dream of having big and posh houses, although having one would be good. Likewise, I don't see the need to own luxury goods, although I have to admit brands do tempt me from time to time.

I tink GREEN is more important. OK, so I'm a green fanatic.

***IDEALS

What's important to me in life is to live a happy life (how ambiguous can I get huh?) I am quite thankful that I am able to do something that I enjoy. I don't see the point of earning big bucks if you don't enjoy what you're doing. Teaching might be a job to many, but I'm making a difference where I work (at least I'll like to believe I am). Plus, I still get to keep my passion to dance.

Maybe I'm juz being naive and ignorant. Reality might set in one day and I might be like everyone else; caught in the rat-race for wealth. Until then, I'm gonna do what I enjoy.

***BORNED REBEL

I hate being asked to do things, unless they're from my superiors (if I wanna keep my job of course!). But other than that, I'm quite resistant to orders, and if i do comply, there'll b a frown on my face.Take treats for instance. As far as I'm concern, I tink I'm quite generous when it comes to treating colleagues, frenz, students, etc.

Interestingly, I find myself refusing to treat if I'm being asked to do so (probably because I feel like I'm being ordered to do so). And if I do encounter a stingy or calculative miser, I would not even consider treating the fella.

Ok, i'm not perfect, sue me!!!

***EMPTY

As simple as I tink I am, something's still amiss in my life. Love? I doubt it, since it didn't work out the last time. Guess I'm not ready, or maybe I've just not found the right one.

Maybe I'm not as matured as I tink I am. So why am I playing love doctor to so many people?I tink I understand people more than I understand myself. How weird can my life get?

Who I Want to Meet:

old friends:

-> St. Faith Pri-> St. Thomas Sec-> St Andrew's JC-> NUS->...

new friends:

current friends:

wishful thinking:

sUm1 whO cAn inspIRe an unInspIRED sOUl

wishful thinking 2:

a buddy? bestfriend? pal?

Blogging about bestfriends the other time really got me tinking why I dun have any bestfriends after sec sch. I tink i've given up on the idea of friendship since they only last for a momentary phase of our lives; like primary school, sec school, then JC, like a buddy to struggle with in that particular phase.

Once we go separate ways, the 'ship' gets lost. And I grew tired of steering the 'ship' by myself i supposed.

But now that i'm working, where a phase change is unlikely, mayb a buddy will do me good; a rubbish dump for all e troubles the monkeys give me, and someone to knock some sense into my senseless mind.

Where art thou my friend? Or have you been around all this while?

Maybe I juz need a pal who understands me, since I can't quite comprehend my own self.

p/s S'PORE, I'm coming back tmr!!!!

Kampung-boy!!!!! (Grandma vs. K-Ma)

2008-11-20T21:34:00.002+08:00

It's Thursday and nothing much has been done actually. Currently chatting with CheeHong and he tells me that I have the kampung boy look. Pop, there goes my ego boot!!! Anyway, family photoshoot booked this coming Saturday afternoon. Feeling very burnt in my wallet!

Went for movie with Ivan, Moses and Ivan's friend (Calvin/Kelvin) yesterday night. Watched Madagascar 2, which turned out rather disappointing to me. Probably because I was too tired by then. The movie was at 1115pm by the way, close to bedtime I supposed. Having said that, I do enjoy the little comical scenes in Madagascar, like the nipple-pinching old lady. haha!

K-Ma (my foster-mum) went KL today. Will see her in Singapore for Christmas. She's a little slow at her age, often talking about irrelevant things. Quite sad to see that, but I guess age has gotten to her. I just hope she'll be blessed with good health and joy always. She's a simple person, and that's what I like about her most. Easily satisfied and entertained, not chasing after material wealth and all.

***

Going to visit grandma tomorrow with my dad. Almost got into a heated debate/argument with my mum few days back with regards to this matter. I've nothing against paying her a visit. She's my paternal grandma after all, although I don't feel any kinship with her. What is to say? I have a complicated family background, and though I have paternal grandparents and relatives, it is as if I have none.

You can't expect me now to adore her like a loving grandmother of mine, because that is so fake. Mum ask me to give her some pocket money, which I am very much against. In the first place, I have no liability towards her. I would very much prefer to buy a gift or present for her, but not giving her pocket money.

As far as I'm concern, if I am to give pocket money, it would be to my k-ma. Even if we are not related by blood, as far as I'm concern, she was my mother for the first 7 years of my life. They say blood is thicker than water, but in this case, I beg to differ.

So I'll probably go buy some souvenirs or gift for my grandma, and that it. I'll give her the respect due, and full stop.

Blood-kin or not, I go by my heart!

Repaired!!!

2008-11-17T20:34:00.012+08:00

Okay, went to get the car repaired today. Almost got conned by one of the workshops, that NINCOMPOOP! He charged us 400++ for the whole thing, but when we went back to get it repaired, he went out for breakfast.

Unwilling to wait, we went to look for another shop and a kind soul recommended a workshop which specializes in auto glass repairs. Boy was I glad we did not wait for the 'conman' to return, because the shop charges only 310 bucks for the whole repair (there goes my SE gig pay!).

Sneaky fella, I'm so not going back to that shop, and he can be sure I'll utilize one of the most powerful marketing tool known to mankind, the 'word-of-mouth', to cause brand aversion to their workshop. GROWL!!!

My only regret now is not taking a picture of the shattered screen, which would have added flavour to this post: the before and after. Darn!

***

Will be going swimming with Ah Hong tomorrow, that is if he confirms with me tonight. Where the heck is that fella. The donkey took one month leave to prepare for his exams in December. Haven't swam for some time, so I probably wouldn't last very long in the water. Haha!

Here's a list of things I need to do before I go back:

Take grad and family photo (will probably dig a hole in my pocket).
Get a set of tailored Malay costume.
Repair my Guess watch
Shopping spree in Padini Concept store (for SEED products of course).
Get dad a birthday gift (this is difficult!!!).

And these are things I need to do when I go back:

Get a new handphone (W902???)
Prepare for Dancepointe concert on 10Dec'08 (gotta look for costume! Darn!)
Agape retreat @ Mt. Austin on 13 & 14 Dec'08
2Crappy invasion @ ECP on 16Dec'08
Family retreat @ DowntownEast 22 - 24 Dec'08
Get SOW done before departmental meeting on 30Dec'08
Make sure Elaine finishes her 6 book reviews and holiday assignments (or I kidnap her PSP, Tortoise and Pig).
Blast Camp???
Get a few more reference books to use up my LDS
Visit Noel after she gives birth (Gangsterz gathering?)
Hunt for my green soft toy. muahahaha!
... the list is probably endless. If you're stil reading this, you probably have no life! Just kidding!

hOme sweEt hOme (or is it?)

2008-11-16T20:26:00.003+08:00

For those who are not aware, I am currently back in my hometown, Kuching. haha! Coincidentally, it's also Mike's birthday. Thus, I had to rushed over to Terminal One to find the rest of the gang. Too bad I didn't bring my camera, or I would have posted shots of Mike's shaved head, topped with cream... haha!

Sigh! Unfortunately, things didn't go very well for my dad's car, because some NINCOMPOOP smashed the rear screen. It was a good thing the screen was protected from shattering to pieces (thanks to the beauty of technological advancement), but nonetheless, the screen is practically gone. I'll be hunting for a replacement screen tomorrow. I wonder what I would have done if I had actually caught the culprit. I might end up in the newspaper headline. haha!

Mum was quite upset. Nag nag nag, as usual, and I was oblivious to a single word. I know I know, she worries about me, but there's a difference between showing concern to a kid and an adult.

Talking about looking for a replacement rear screen, I hope it doesn't dig a hole in my pocket. Call me crazy but it seems that I'm fated to not earn extra cash, so to speak.

Remember the Sony Ericsson Music Monster gig I did before flying back yesterday? I was paid 150 bucks for it. Didn't really do much. Just needed to act. haha! Anyway, the 150 bucks will probably pay off if not subsidized the replacement screen.

Then, there's this Chingay performance which I was paid 200 bucks to dance. What happen to it? I was fined my NUS for downloading some anime. 200 bucks went "ka-poof." Talk about unlucky.

Enough ranting fo the night!

p/s This is neither the first nor the last time I'm going to say this.

VAIO is PATHETIC!

I'm refering to annoyed I am of my dad's laptop.

3Doodles -> 4Dreams?

2008-11-14T12:29:00.004+08:00

Here are the pictures we took yesterday.

Formal Shot

Crazy Shot

I like the formal shot better, cos you're all not crazy enough in the second shot. What happen to all the jokers in 3Doodles? And TeckKwang has to demonstrate how long and nice his arms are, at the expense of WeiJing and CheeHong.

A picture paints a thousand words.

It does to me. How about you?

Extension (Away 15Nov - 26Nov)

2008-11-14T10:04:00.005+08:00

Alright, today is officially the last day of school for Sec 3 Express students. Same goes for me, but I'll still be back in school from time to time for school duty. Anyway, I'll be flying back to Kuching tomorrow for a short trip of 10 days. Coincidentally, Mike's birthday is tomorrow as well, so I'll probably join.

But before I go back tomorrow, I gotta do some shooting gig for Jacky's friend. Supposed to be a hawker seller or something, and when I hear music, I gotta start bouncing and jacking (I think)! Worse, the setting is in a coffee shop. Let's just hope I won't get camera shooting fright tomorrow with staring eyes. Haha!

Oh, for those who don't know, my appeal to switch my CS2 from Computer Applications (CPA) to English Business Skills (EBS) has been approved few days back. Hence, I'll only be entering into NIE in July. Goodie goodie! Should have seen the faces of my colleagues when I was jumping around in excitement when I received the approval, like a little kid receiving birthday present.

I'm rather sad though, as I won't be teaching 4D next year. It's inevitable, since I'm not a trained teacher as of yet, and it is after all, the O-level year for them. Nonetheless, I still hope to see them through their Os... Dun disappoint me Doodles, or I'll skinned all of you alive.

Remember to think about your ambition/dream. If any of you still give me the answer, "I don't know," I'll suspend you from the fan. Haha! (seriously, it's for your own good!)

***

Anyway, last Saturday, I had a gathering with the some of the Eton Hallites. Since the last gathering was at Gladys and Champ's place, this time round, it was in Boon Keng, home of Mr. Heng Jung Kiat. Quite a spacious place he has, especially the kitchen. I'm somehow envious of him.

Luke & JungKiat's bday!

Had JungKiat's pasta special, and fruit salad afterwhich we played twisters. Here's a view of what it look like:

Twister

Twisting and twisted!

It was fun catching up again. I still can't believe 6 years back, we were still running around and throwing cakes and eggs in Eton Hall, and now we're all grown up. Hmm, I still think we should take up sabor again. It's so freaking fun, and considering I've not had my revenge yet.

Gladys, I owe you a cream facial treatment (redeemable anytime).

JK, you can be sure I've not forgotten ur ultimate stunt; rolling on my bed all dirty and creamy.

Broken Dreams

2008-11-11T09:27:00.001+08:00

Okay okay, I admit I'm not disciplined at all when it comes to blogging. Still trying to get use to it. Anyway, next blogging topic given was dreams. I had many dreams back when I was in secondary school.

I dreamt of being a lawyer because I enjoyed thrashing and tearing apart opponents' arguments in debate. Madam Cynthia used to tell me how cannibalistic I was when it comes to debating; an entirely different being. What can I say, I had been home-trained by my own mother through constant disagreements and bickering. (For those who do not know, I have a very complicated upbringing.)

I loved Mathematics like I love pork (FYI, my favourite dishes are pig organ soup and pork leg rice). Back then, I felt like my entire life revolved around maths, and I would stay up all night until I finish my maths assignment. Maths was a challenging, in my opinion, like a riddle or mystery to solved. I loved it so much that I dreamt of being a 'MATHEMATICIAN.' There's probably no such term, but back then, I kept telling my parents that was my ambition.

A lawyer and a mathematician. Two different dreams, but it did not occur to me that I would have to choose one when the time comes, OR I would have if I had not given up on them.

In Sec 5, I gave up! I guess I've had enough of struggling. That was the last straw and throughout SAJC and NUS, I went on without an aim in life, except to never be an engineer.

Ever since young, my parents had laid out my future job for me: an engineer (not surprising considering engineering was a budding occupation in their time). Regardless of my achievements in school, they deemed them redundant and a waste of time. It was most ironical how I was highly praised in school, but an entire opposite at home. It was no wonder that I developed split personality back then; a bubbly fella in school but a gloomy child at home. You can hardly find me crack a joke or smile at home. That was probably why I took up at least 5 CCAs then, so I would have an excuse to be in school 6 days a week.

***

But if you ask me now, I regretted giving up on my dreams. As much as I was upset and disappointed with my parents, I should never have given up on my dreams. I thought that by giving up on my studies and no longer a high achiever, my parents expectations would ceased and more importantly, they would realise and regret what they had being doing to me. That mindset shows how immature I was back then.

Till today, I don't think they even realised the psychological damage they had given to me. And even if they did, so what? At the end of the day, I am to fend for myself. Blaming others will not ensure a better future for me.

And now, I'm hoping my students will not make the same mistakes. If you have a dream, go all out for it. Don't just build clouds in the sky, make it happen, study for it!

Danzwar '08 @ St. James Powerhouse (featuring Wade Robson)

2008-11-03T09:26:00.001+08:00

Okay, I've got to admit that I'm not very discipline when it comes to blogging. Haha! Anyway, here's an update of what I did during the weekend.

First up, I finally got my Adidas sports bag after so long, thanks to Celeste Han, who mailed me a 20% discount coupon.

Next up, Danzwar 2008 at St. James Powerhouse last Saturday night. I was quite excited about it since I missed Code Edge @ Zouk two weeks back. But the highlight of the whole event was Wade Robson himself; Emmy award winning choreographer and one of the giants in the hiphop dance industry.

Wade Robson

I think the whole event was spectacular, with brilliant performances from various competitors, Danzpeople and even invited guests. Sheena and Francis of Danzpeople were really good, and they really prove that age don't matter. Haha! I hope I can still move like them when I reach their age.

One of drawbacks was probably the space constraint. It was suffocating trying to cheer and root for the dancers amidst the crowd. Couldn't really get a good view too, but the atmosphere was hype.

The queue into the club was tormenting I feel, although I wasn't really affected since I was in the early queue. That said, the entry was only opened about half an hour after the scheduled time indicated.

If that was not bad enough, practically 90 percent of the audience did not get to claim their drink because the whole club was evacuated, in an effort to ensure no underaged clubbers are present. I seriously wonder if St James is runned by humans, or monkeys. Just thinking about it all over again, fumes me.

Anyway, Little White Hoods came in two groups this time round; Men Can Cook (a story about chefs) and You Got Served (a story on waiters). Dyscordia was great too, looking like prison convicts, only cooler and more funkier. haha!

Dyscordia

You Got Served!

Men Can Cook

Anyway, Men Can Cook won the competition; SGD5000 cold hard cash, and I really mean cold hard cash. I can vouch for it cause I cabbed back with Xiao that night, and he practically showed us the cash. Should hav just robbed him there and then. haha!

The teams were good, though my views were rather blocked. The sad part was that there was only one grand prize. I have to admit that Men Can Cook's win was unexpected to me. The top 3 teams in my list were actually You Got Served (sadly, there were a few mistakes in their stunts), Sick (they were wicked and gory, I like!) and Elecoldxhot (a Malaysian b-boy team). Maybe it's because the gimmicks weren't very surprising to me anymore, since we've had a preview during BLAST! Anniversary. haha!

Anyway, after Danzwar, we went Vivo BK for supper, afterwhich a bunch of us head back to St. James to shake our booty. I have to admit that it's been a while since I last clubbed. It was very packed and crowded though and not much room to shake.

Here's a funny incident which took place. Sometime in the middle of the whole thing, a guy came up to the girls and started whispering. We were confused at first and found out later that they wanted to have a dance battle with us, soft of. First thing that crossed my mind was, "Whatever for? There's hardly any room in here!"

Xiao must hate me for this because I volunteered him to represent us in the battle and the guy touched his face. Wakakakakaka!

Went back around 4am that night & slept the whole Sunday off.

fRiends

2008-10-31T09:19:00.000+08:00

Disclaimer: One of the reasons this blog was started, besides a self-discovery journey, was to get my students to work on their command of the English language. Every week, a theme will be given and we will blog on the same thing, only different approach. For starters, the discussion topic this week is 'Friends.'

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Friends. Just the sound of the word itself brings back many good, even bad, memories. I've had friends for as long as I live. A few of them, I've known since primary school, but prior to that, my memory's blur. Jason's currently working in Melbourne and Ian's somewhere in West Malaysia. Together with Mike Thien, we used to hang out a lot; racing Tamiya cars, loitering, etc.

By the way, Mike Thien was once my bestfriend. I remembered vividly that his handwriting was so neat that it looked as if it came from a type-writer. I was closest to him among the clique, telling him every nitty gritty stuff, from crushes to hate. And the best part was, both of us were infatuated with the same girl. Her name was Ervina. But that was the past.

After graduating from primary school, Jason, Ian and I continued attending the same school, while Mike attended a school, closer to his home. It was a loss but gradually, we found new friends and the friendship unknowingly dissolved. I wonder how he is doing? hmm...

Anyway, in secondary school, I had another bestfriend too. His name was Mervyn. Together with two other friends, Libren and Robin, we hung out a lot, and let me re-emphasize: EXTREMELY A LOT! They say birds of a feather flock together. We had the same co-curricular activities (Tennis, Peer helper, English and St John Ambulance) and even participated as rivals and teammates in competitions (Debate, Public Speaking, Track, etc.).

We had a lot in common, yet our personalities are a total opposite. Funny how my parents always compare me with his gentle nature, where as I'm a havoc. But truly, I may behave hyper and chaotic on the outside, yet deep down inside, I'm pretty 'nice.'

Blogging about this really makes my heart grow fonder, but at the same time, it was regretful to have lost the magic of bestfriend-hood. He's currently in Russia, pursuing his dream to be a doctor. I just don't understand what he sees in biology and chemistry, and although I was his bestfriend, we just don't see eye-to-eye when it comes to science. Notice how we differ, yet we once rode on the roller-coaster ride of friendship.

Friends come and go. One minute they're your best buddies, next minute, they're mere acquaintants. Pondering at the moment, I can't really make out who's my bestfriend. Is there really a need to grade our friends? Would that affect how we treat our pals?

Or maybe I've given up on the idea of bestfriend-hood. All the years of friendship dissolved once we walk different paths. Distance, although ought not be an excuse, became a real test of friendship.

That said, I'm still thankful for the friends I have around me.

The BLASTards (Shake it, groove it, krump it all out!)
Rafflesians (I'm sorry for going around, scaring the bones out of all of you!)
Gangsterz (Noel's giving birth soon! Last night was a false alarm!)
Eton Hell peepz (I'm sorry for making a mess on birthdays)
Agapeez (Thankx for all the care and concern & I'm sorry for not being around)
...

I love you guys and gals big time! I'm sorry drove you guys up the wall many times, but I just can't help it. All the adrenaline rush makes life interesting, and it leaves a print in our life story.

Fay & Kelvin's Wedding

2008-10-29T10:44:00.000+08:00

Fay got married recently, 18 July 2008 to be precise. It's been a long time since I last saw her and when she called me to tell me she's getting married, boy, was I stunned (in a good way of course!). She's been a good mentor to me in my days in Tanglin Halt, especially during my first time heading the camp itself.

Fay's Wedding

She subtly work her magic on me, inspiring me greatly in the planning of the children camp. many things have happened since but she'll always be one of the few leader whom I respect. I have to admit that when I saw you walk down the aisle, emotions stirred within me but my alter ego refuses to shed tears.

Down the aisle Fay goes

Never got to tell you this, so it goes:

Thank you Fay for the many care and concern you've showered onto me. I'm really happy for you and I wish you manifolds of blessings and fruitfulness in your married life. May you stay cheerful as always, bringing smiles to many faces.

Brand new start! Good old days!

2008-10-29T10:00:00.000+08:00

Alright! It's been a long time since I blogged. Last I remember, I had Naruto layout and was complaining day and night about how intolerable university life is.

Yet, looking back at the good old days, I can't help but to miss all the rushing of assignments and staying up late at night, hanging out in the dance studio. Sure, it was tiring having to juggle between studies and other commitments, but there is always a sense of satisfaction at the end of the day after the submission of school assignments or a superb performance.

Shut Up & Dance '08

Funny how we often complain and dread the busy schedule amidst the preparation period. Long hours of practises just to put up a short three to five minutes performance. Seems almost unfair, one might say, but that's how life is. Aching muscles, coupled with sleepless nights when assignment deadlines are close sure made tertiary life seemed unbearable.

But from where I stand now in the working world, it was neither dreadful nor unbearable, but instead, pleasurable. I guess its true how we don't learn to appreciate something until its gone. And even though we know this all along, it doesn't sink in until we truly experienced it.

If I could turn back time and relive the past, I would probably do things differently; be braver in my decisions and going all out while my youth last. Hmm... somehow the last statement made me sound rather old and tattered.

How well, life goes on and I need to move on. This blog marks the new beginning, a milestone in my career as a teacher and towards a greater understanding of myself.

As John Cheever, an American novelist puts it:

"When I began to write, I found this was the best way to make sense out of my life."