Stewy T

Deepavali break

2010-11-07T19:34:00.009+08:00

7 November 2010

My first post since November 2008! Exactly a 2 year hiatus and I'm back on blogger! And its a month before my 22nd birthday! Are the dates playing tricks on me? No I don't think so.

Well the last 2 days have been uber memorable to me. First, on Friday it was Deepavali, and I had to work! But one thing good was that the traffic was kind to me. I felt as if I was driving in sweet 'ol Ipoh, because the roads were practically devoid of traffic along the LDP at Puchong and the Kesas as well because usually it'd be a sea of cars regardless of the time.

That day was kinda special, because one of the foreign workers employed by my mum, who was from Myanmar and had been working for us since 2004, was going back to her homeland after 5 years with us. And she was one of our best employees by far. So we all tucked into our 10-seater Nissan Vanette and sent her to the airport, the LCCT.

The LCCT was packed with travelers, locals and foreigners. It was my second time there. I couldn't find parking, so I parked at the drop off zone since so many cars were doing the same. I couldn't find mum, so basically I couldn't bid goodbye to to my worker. Her name was Khin Aung San. We all called her Khin.

~ What was funny was that the day before I was at Putrajaya finalising the last details for her trip back to her homeland. Mum trusted me to do it, and at the same time I took the rare opportunity to renew my soon-to-be-expired passport and also I renewed my century-old IC at JPN (JABATAN PENDAFTARAN NEGARA). I was practically running around like a psycho running those errands while carrying Khin's passport in a file which was clutcched in my hands. And when i got back to the car after finalising everything, I realised her passport was missing! I started panicking and worrying. The only thing that crossed my mind was to re-run the paths I took a while ago to trace back the passport and luckily I did, but it was handed by some good Samaritan to an officer at the Immigration Department. Cranky old Malay officer refused to give me back the passport unless the bearer was present to collect it. Deep down I was cursing and swearing to the old head "GIVE IT BACK TO ME FOR I'M RUSHING LIKE A MAD MAN FOR IF YOU DON'T I CAN'T GUARANTEE WHAT I MIGHT DO TO YOU"! And so I produced some evidence that the passport was indeed belonging to one of my employees and luckily he bought that and returned it to me. What a scare! But at least I was relieved I did not lose her passport for if I did, I think she would've cried in front of me. *Count myself lucky* ~

Before and After : My old passport, and my new one.

See the twin towers "blackened" from the image.

So glad I finally updated this age old blog! Till next time! :)

My weird habits

2008-11-07T23:12:00.005+08:00

Lately, I've realized I've got many strange albeit useful habits, some ranging for good to bad, some I don't even know how to rate them! Here are some of them:

(1) When I'm at the petrol station, I spend more time cleaning the windscreen then refueling! Sometimes so long that the fuel pump attendee has to take me away! I just can't drive with fingerprints or smudge on my windscreen!

(2) I always tailgate with the cars in front of me, for some reason, I always try to keep myself at a safe distance, but then I just get inches and inches closer!

(3) I like driving with the window winded down, especially at night!

(4) I seem to like driving in the rain, in the night all the better! Night driving suits me perfectly, while listening to Rihanna's "Disturbia" or Paul van Dyke's "Nothing But You". It just makes me wanna go faster with the city lights in my sights!

(5) I like collecting collectibles, my recent addictions are none other than merchandise from Quantum of Solace, Bond's latest flick. I collect the Shell Bond cars (complete set), I am also collecting the 22 Swatch watches specially for James Bond, I bought limited edition Touch 'n Go cards (2 of them!) by Quantum of Solace, my next one is of the course the fancy suitcase to house all the Bond cars from Shell.. And then before this there were those Ferrari cars.. Come to think of the money I've spent so far just on them.. Clever marketing strategy from Shell..

(6) I like reading sports news from major tabloids in the UK, at midnight with junk food in hand!

(7) I'm addicted to Facebook, I haven slept early for once since my addiction began to heat up back in September!

(8) I like scrubbing car tires, just to make them shine as bright as they can! Sometimes while scrubbing I can go on for hours!

(9) I love iTunes and my iPod, and Tiesto's podcasts!

(10) I like buying DVDs, not for the sake of watching them, just for collecting! Blu-Ray baby!

(11) i like spamming other people's Facebook account

(12) I skip lunch and breakfast sometimes without feeling hungry through the day

(13) I use a hairband!

(14) I use lux shower cream in the shower!

(15) I use all kinds of fragrances in the car...

(16) ...and in my room!

(17) I scream, I jump, I cheer when Man Utd score!

(18) I cry in the theatre sometimes :(

(19) I always reverse into parking spots, too Singaporean liao me..

(20) ...and I suck when it comes to girls!

~the weirdo reeling off to another weird habit~

~October that was~

2008-11-01T04:19:00.002+08:00

What a month it has been! Quattro, inevitable split ups, High School Musical 3 premiere, work and non-stop work that involves driving, encountering bitchy people!!! I must say it has been an unforgettable month, and I ended it in style, by spending Halloween at Euphoria. My first time in Euphoria, and i must say I'm very disappointed. The music was good, but the crowd just wasn't there. Maybe perhaps our group wasnt big, but it was a far cry from the real MOS I've experienced in Singapore..

Ups and downs were the norm for this month, and my baby brother (gosh I still teat him like a baby!) turned 7 years old on the 23rd of october, and choosing a birthday cake for him certainly wasn't easy! And I even got to see my latest cousin in Singapore baby! he was adorable, and how often we joked Derek would no longer be the jewel of the household! And I finally cleared my referral paper out of the way on the 31st. Now I can fully concentrate on my Part 1 new semester.. As of now I'm already lagging behind by miles, and I've set a new goal for November, to study harder than ever!

The month of october also saw my interest and addiction towards the iPhone 3G propel into unimaginable proportions! I'm now on the lookout for an iPhone. It may not be the best phone in the world, but it certainly is the most famous phone! I'm saving for one now, valued at around RM3000 for a fully unlocked version.. soon my friends will have a new gadget to fondle with in trust class. bleh. Lately I've been having late nights till 5a.m, it be either for studying on just for the purposes of being online.. geez, this as gotta stop soon before it gets out of hand, before my health starts to deteriorate..

geez.. gotta hit the bed now.. my king koil! OOHHH!

Katy Perry's moment of madness

2008-10-21T20:37:00.003+08:00

Katy Perry, more known for hit singles such as "I Kissed A Girl" and "Hot'N Cold", went through a series of embarrassing incidents at the recent MTV Latin American Music Awards when she literally planted her face into a cake.

Perry, who is 23, was performing her hit single, "I Kissed A Girl" at the awards ceremony when she decided to round things off by planting her face into the giabt pink cake. Red-faced, she threw some at her guitarist, only to keep slipping on the slippery cake-smeared floor.

Each time she tried to get up, she ended up on the floor again.

She finally left the stage by crawling on her hands and knees ^_^

Lost in translation

2008-10-20T00:09:00.003+08:00

I don't really understand certain chain of events that took place in front of me. My personal life took a tumble to an all-time low. I finally understood what kinda girl she was, I call her "the sampler". This is why..

We've haven been talking much to each other lately, then one fine Sunday night, when she signed in, I had the worst hammering possible from her. Verses of "I hate you", "stay away" came in from her.. And her personal message on MSN was I'm the worst possible dude I've met. I knew straight away she was referring to me. I already despise people calling me "dude", and for her to indirectly refer to me like that, it was the toughest blow EVER! I asked her how was her club outing like the night before. Her reply was a tad too annoying to me, and I will forever remember it. It read.."one night 3 cars 3 clubs 5 girls 6 guys 10 hours of partying". The minute I saw this I felt a stinging attack to the heart, like I was too troublesome to reply to. 10 hours of partying, and with guys too.. Which guy wouldn't be jealous that the girl he likes is out with other guys? And she got the message perfectly across.. Best part was she said "best part was that I met a super cool guy". I was "happy" she said that, I pretended cool and asked if she got his number and everything, and there wasn't a reply as usual. That moment I thought, "this is it, enough of this shit anymore". If she was trying to toss me aside, there were other ways to do it, and this was the meanest way possible of doing so. The night after our confrontation, she updated her mood on Facebook, to LOVESTRUCK. Guess she met a cool guy from her night out. All I wanna say to this guy: "Good luck with her tonight"

I was lost and confused, was she alright, what did I do to deserve such a battering.. Her explanation for that outburst that came out of the blue.. I posted too many things about her Facebook, how I was telling other people she was my girlfriend and stuff like that, guess she felt degrading being my girlfriend, but I don't think my activities on Facebook deserve such outbursts, I really don't think so. Nothing whatsoever did I do to suggest that I was treating her as a partner, NOTHING. She was too angry and provoked to be calm, so I took it all in my stride and agreed with her and kept apologizing profusely. But it was never enough, my verdict had already been read out even before I was tried. I guess this is what you do when you're in love with someone. You'd doing anything to please her, even taking the blame for something u've never committed. I felt like I went through hell for her, but there she was, hating me for all the wrong reasons.

Man, I tried so hard for her, I had sleepless nights for her, I shed tears for her, I think I did virtually everything for her, and she never appreciated it. Never mind the absence of appreciation, never mind the short or sometimes no replies at all, for a while, I thought I had reached the limits of my patience. people kept asking me to move on, that she wasn't the right one, that she wasn't the good girl I thought she was all along. I felt foolish and stupid pursuing a lost cause. I simply wasted too much time and effort on her, and now I risk lowering my marks in the exams that are nearing. I can't afford this anymore, love is a game where the stakes are high, I just realized that, I'm not ready for anything yet. Risks are meant to be taken, I understood that when I chose to take this path, and now the move has backfired severely.

Certain chain of events brought me to choose this path, I have never felt such a way towards someone before, as least not for quite some time now. The pain of being "tossed around" is really horrible. She's hot at one instance, cold at the other. Today we can talk until 5a.m in the morning, tomorrow there'd be virtually no news from her. And she's furious at me when I ask her friends about her whereabouts and stuff. OK, I admit I might be showing traits of a stalker, but that's because I care, I wouldn't be doing this if I did not feel that way. Her outbursts has caused me to come to a halt at all of my advances. To be honest, I'm beginning to hate her a little for what she's doing to me, but isn't hate part of the love process too? By asking me to stay away, she posted a recent picture with her and a guy intimately together, from a recent night out in town. I felt horrible, I wanted to puke immediately, I felt jealous and furious, and I was literally speechless at her.

Speaking of the night out, I was at Quattro on Friday night for the launch of KL's latest nightspot. I texted her and told her I was there with another friend, she arrived and was apparently 'turned off' by the crowd, and proceeded to another club. I felt shit, was she avoiding me altogether?? I've not seen her since our first outing, and I was darn right excited to see her there, but she played my hopes down. Never mind, my mood the whole night was turned off instantly, I left before midnight, took a short walk to KLCC and I watched House Bunny with Ishmael to relieve some stress, and the movie did some justice on me. Now its time to move on with my life, it was hard initially for me to let go. GOD! The hardest part is definitely the part of letting go of something that u really adore but its not yours for the taking.

What can I say about her? She certainly took me on the ride of my life, there were some moments I cherished, some I did not. I will never forget this young lady, smart and attractive, smart in all ways. I feel she live's in circles. She'd be in this circle, try out the men that she feels she likes, then moves on to another circle when there's no Mr. Right. The process continues of course until she finds the right one. And by telling me that she met with a super cool guy, that is when my days with her are long gone, that is the way she throws you aside when she no longer sees u as a feasible option. I felt like a puppet to her, being there for her when she needed me, and being tossed aside when I was surplus to requirements. Never would I fall for such a booby trap again. I have failed miserably too many times, this has certainly been a painful lesson to learn, I'm taking time off from this romance stuff to focus on my other goals in life, mainly to achieve academic success. If she text me or communicates with me or anything of that whatsoever, I will most probably not reply at all, or even better, give her short replies like how she does to me! I might be a little too mean here, mocking her, but this is from what I experienced. She's not an easy card to deal with, but she is certainly one who would be easily to fall for. But what the hell, I'm wasting time again posting this thing.

Stewart is moving on for good~

Cool start to October, or was it?

2008-10-19T19:51:00.006+08:00

Its been a while since my last post, and boy did things happened thick and fast! I had a formal dinner on 10th October, for a good cause, more like a cam-whoring event for us people. Everyone was praising me bringing my Canon along, rightly so, and I remember snapping around 300 shots or more, lost count! But it was an awesome event, worth every single penny of my RM65. I uploaded most the pictures on Facebook the moment I reached home that night, at around 2a.m, putting a smile on everyone's face was what I love the most, unfortunately not many people can put a smile on my face. Comments came pouring in like mad, as it stands now, from over 74 pics spanning 2 albums, almost 350 comments have been made so far, the first time in Facebook I've been bombarded with comments..

Then, I was off to Singapore for my cousin's first month celebration party by the beach at Pasir Ris. It was an awesome place by the beach, food was excellent, we even took a bicycle stroll with my cousins along the coast and in the park into the night, scaringly eerie! It was fun overall, but felt like I was missing something..

Then there was the Launch of the latest nightclub in KL, called Club Quattro, located at Avenue K, right opposite KLCC. I was there with my best friend, Ishmael. It was supposed to be a huge launch as it was the first club in the world to have 4 "seasons" in it, Spring, Summer, Autumn, and Winter, but what I thought it was just all hyped up, too much hype coming into it.. The only highlight for me was the Winter bar, where supposedly temperatures could go as low as -5C, it was cold inside, but the coldness didn't fell "winter" at all. Overall, I give it a 5 star rating, out of 10! It was a tad too disappointing after all that hype going into it. We had several cocktails as we didn't want to splurge with only the 2 of us there, how gay! Then at midnight, we walked back to KLCC to catch House Bunny, which was really good too

On top of the world

2008-10-05T02:46:00.014+08:00

The Marina Bay street circuit from above, structures still on despite race ending 5 days ago..

The proposal for the Golden Sands Casino, scheduled to be completed by 2010

Friday October 3 2008
Sunny 5p.m

The view on top the Singapore Flyer was really spectacular, not sure if the London eye is better, since they're both touted as "cousins", but hey, I was on top the highest observation wheel in the world, at 165m above sea level. I got to feast my eyes on Singapore's amazing skyline, the F1 street circuit at Marina Bay, The Esplanade and plenty more other landmarks

I booked tickets on their website, www.singaporeflyer.com, which had a further 20% discount if we did so rather than over the counter purchase. Our time was 5p.m, the last slot for the day, not sure if they provided rides for night time, that would be beautiful, seeing Singapore at night. Cost us $23.60 for an adult, and $18.96 for a child.. It was a wonderful experience, a 30 minute ride. They had smart business techniques too, they snapped a photo of us before the ride, "photoshopped" it later, and then provided us with the option to purchase it for $20 for the first copy, and $15 for every subsequent copy..

Overall, it was an unforgettable experience, Derek enjoyed himself a lot, but was afraid of heights a little, not for me though! So was mum, who was sick the last couple of days, so this was like a good retreat for her. I was enjoying it too, but I felt something amiss, someone I wished was on my side when I was on top of the world, or so I was.. How I wished she was here with me, but it was not to be. Is it a dream? Me and her? If it was, I don't wanna wake up any soon.. I wanna sleep forever, be in this dream for the rest of my life.. If only she was here..=)

Stewart dreaming off into slumberland for now^_^

Friday morning 'bliss'

2008-10-03T12:08:00.006+08:00

Friday October 3 2008
Sunny

Can't believe what a morning I just had. Was supposed to accompany my mum to see my brother's school principal, because he had been temporarily suspended from school, Balestier Hill Secondary School, due to certain incidents, fighting, smoking. The worst part was the fighting part, 3 times he was caught trying beat up this guy from Sec 5, all because he was a slow learner at MPCC, some police cadet thingy. And because of him, Duncan and his group of friends always had to take the stick from his mistakes, that was his reason for beating him up
We were there, the principal and the disciplinary teacher was there talking to us. The principal was a lady in her 50s, and she was extra fierce. She kept raising her voice, implicating my brother over and over again. I was there listening to my mum, and my mum was doing some explanation to her. For some reason I just stood there, stoned, speechless. I knew Duncan won't beat up somebody else just for some lame lame reason, but the evidence was there, he was already convicted before he could be charged!

Then I was reflecting at myself, what a brother I was. it was because of me that he's now so violent. The teacher even pointed out to us that he was physically very strong, and he even asked me whether he's stronger than me! LOL! Sad fact, he was.. But hey, 2 years back he would lose in a fist fight with me, not anymore, now he's outgrown those muscles on his arms, and now being in a fist fight with him is the last thing I wanna do.. But Duncan's not that kinda violent person, he's just lost and lonely. Mum and 2 other brothers, me and Derek, his closest family members, are all in Malaysia, and we visit him at most only once a month! I kept blaming myself, on how I used to bully my brother, so badly that sometimes he would be bleeding and bruising, but then again, regret isn't gonna help will it? So I'm having a resolution today, to counsel my brother all night..

LOL, were suppose to visit Singapore Flyer today, and it promises to be an amazing spectacle, a lot of pictures I'm gonna take for sure! But then my mood's been affected since morning? Can I overcome it? No choice! I'm in my hometown, how often do I get to be back here? And it costs $23.60 per pax! I did some research about this place, its the tallest observation wheel in the world, and it stands 165m from sea level. LOL! I can't wait for evening to come!

Stewart turning off into the Republic >>

Scholes injury mars Berbatov blitz as United ease to comfortable victory

2008-10-01T17:18:00.006+08:00

Manchester United's Paul Scholes is stretchered off after picking up a knee ligament injury against Aalborg
Wayne Rooney scores United's opener in Denmark
Berbatov volleys home a superb second goal for United against Aalborg
Aalborg 0

Manchester United 3

(Rooney 22' Berbatov 55', 79')

Nothing is straightforward for Manchester United this season and last night an accomplished victory in north Denmark was sadly also noteable for a knee ligament injury to Paul Scholes. A first-half Wayne Rooney goal - created superbly by Scholes’ replacement Ryan Giggs - and two strikes for Dimitar Berbatov ensured that the holders now stand well placed to take control of Group E and consign a disappointing opening draw with Villarreal at Old Trafford to distant memory. But it was news that United’s venerable midfielder Scholes had damaged ligaments in his right knee during a tussle with Aalborg captain Thomas Augustinussen that served to sour the European champions’ mood a little as they travelled home in the early hours of this morning.

Despite his veteran status, Scholes remains an important cog in United’s midfield. The 33-year-old boarded United’s charter on crutches last night and no matter how long he is absent - and the fear last night was that it could be six to eight weeks - he will be missed. That apart, this was a satisfactory night for Sir Alex Ferguson’s players against the Danish champions, who proved as modest in terms of ability as their neat little stadium was in its capacity. ‘Welcome to Hell’ said the banner behind one goal before kick-off. If this is what damnation is like then everybody will be wanting a ticket.

Bruce Rioch’s side - who are actually lingering close to the foot of the Danish first division at the moment - were game but limited and, once they found their stride, United picked them off with a professionalism that will have pleased Ferguson.

What will have delighted him further was the identity of the two goalscorers. Rooney and Berbatov have been pencilled in as Ferguson’s new dream team this season but neither had managed to score until the former appeared as a substitute to garnish United’s win over Bolton at the weekend with the game’s second goal.

Last night, he scored again and, after a horror miss early on, Berbatov added the first two goals of what should be a long and prolific United career.

The Bulgarian sliced an early chance wide with what appeared to be his right shin after Cristiano Ronaldo charged down a clearance from Aalborg goalkeeper Karim Zaza in the sixth minute, and for a while it appeared as though the 27-year-old was going to endure another difficult night.

However, after Aalborg’s playmaker Andreas Johansson missed a glorious chance to give his team the lead in the 11th minute, Rooney edged United in front and the subsequent ease of the visitors’ performance allowed Berbatov to make his mark and contribute two efficiently-taken goals.

Scholes’ exit came in the 15th minute after he appeared to twist his leg during an innocuous challenge with Augustinussen.

In the context of the game, at least, he was replaced by another efficient passer in the form of Giggs and the Welshman created the opening goal seven minutes later.

Receiving the ball 30 yards from goal, Giggs spotted Rooney’s run off the back of the two Aalborg central defenders and a sliderule pass with his left foot allowed his team-mate to score first time with his right as goalkeeper Zaza advanced in vain.

It was a beautiful, simple goal, created by intelligence and execution of the highest order.

Once in the lead it never looked likely that United would not win. Aalborg passed the ball nicely at times - as Rioch promised they would - and worried United’s back line occasionally.

But the clinical football came from United and once the home team gifted Berbatov his first goal in a United shirt the contest was effectively over.

On the eve of the game Augustinussen had spoken of his excitement at facing the European champions but sadly he did not enjoy the best night and when he miscontrolled a simple pass on the edge of his own area in the 55th minute Berbatov
was able to spank a perfectly executed volley past Zaza.

Berbatov’s celebration was muted, perhaps in keeping with the occasion.

Nevertheless he must have felt some relief and he was able to go on and double his total with 11 minutes remaining.

Ronaldo - impressive and willing all night - spotted his team-mate lurking on the penalty spot and his cross from the right was accurate enough to allow Berbatov a falling volley that again crashed into the goal before many had even blinked.

With young full back Rafael da Silva justifying his inclusion ahead of Wes Brown at right back, there was much to please Ferguson here.

He said his team would get going in October. He was just a few hours out.

Selamat Hari Raya Aidilfitri

2008-10-01T01:33:00.003+08:00

1st October 2008

Selamat Hari Raya to all my muslim mates who are celebrating Aidilfitri. Remember to drive safely, adhere by the speed limit, and keep a safe distance with the car in front of you. Till then, Selamat Hari Raya Aidilfitri, Maaf Zahir Batin, Have a good one=)

Raya Wisher sending off!:)

Wake Me Up When September Ends^_^

2008-09-30T16:20:00.005+08:00

30th September 2008

Sunny

Today's the last day of September. Looking back through the year, this has gotta be the most eventful month of the year. So many things happened to me, academic wise and and from a personal point of view. I received my Intermediate results, which of course required me to be referred a paper, but still I'm grateful that I'd be able to proceed through Part 1 like all my other mates while waiting to sit for my referral paper at the end of October, and having to fork out another RM1554! Other than that, I was glad being able to be back and running again, academic wise. The first day of Part 1 to me felt like me being a kid in a candy store, eager to find out more and more candy. To me, studying is my candy

This has also been the month where I have never crashed my bed before 3a.m, tonight's no exception! Partly because I just moved to a super duper spectacular and posh area in Setia Alam, and had just had my broadband installed, so I was pretty much hooked on the world wide web all day, that would pretty much be the norm. So many things happened this month. The Barclays Premier League, which is the best football league in the world, began the new season with defending champions Manchester United, my favorite team of course, having a slow start to the campaign, only 2 wins in 5 games, but we had to take into account that in their first 5 games, they had already faced Liverpool and Chelsea, and at this point, they had the same amount of points at this stage as last season, and where did they finish? Ahhh, at the top spot, so there wasn't really any cause for concerns, but I was anxious for them to return to the top spot ASAP.

Then there was the historic night race at the inaugural Singapore Grand Prix on September 28. This race was a bit sentimental and special to me, not so much on it being a night race on a street circuit! But because its my birth place, my hometown, was finally hosting the sport I follow most besides English football. So I was a bit kinda emotional and sentimental when the 5 red lights went off, and when Fernando Alonso crossed the chequered flag. Of course I was gunning for Kimi Raikkonen to win, or any of the Ferrari drivers to win because I support them, but it didn't matter so much that night, as long as someone won! As long as the night race ran smoothly without any untoward incident, I was more than happy. Seeing Kimi crash off and his title hopes evaporate instantly really did tke the gloss off the whole event for me, but other than that, I was proud of my Singapore. Even though I wasn't lucky enough to witness it "LIVE", seeing it on TV was equally good, and so I made a promise to myself to watch it in Singapore next year.

On a personal note, it was rather topsy turvy too. I met this wonderful girl through Facebook. She was an old classmate of mine back in my high school days, 2 years my junior. We knew who each other was, but we never really spoke back in high school, but recently we had been communicating to each other on Facebook and MSN, and I found out that she was an avid Manchester United fan like me, fine by me. Then all of a sudden 2 nights before the crunch match involving Chelsea vs Manchester United, we kinda like agreed to meet up and watch the big match at The Republic in Sunway, as Hitz.FM was holding a viewing party there. So we met up and watched the match there. All went well and smooth sailing until after the match where some events took place which till today I cannot comprehend. They were amazing things that happened that night between me and her, amazing things that will forever be in my mind. She simply blew my mind away with her beauty and personality. I find her really amazing and attractive, and my whole life's been turned upside down because of her. I'm willing to go all out to secure her, so that I can be with her, whatever it may be, I just hope it turns out to be a happy ending. Even if it doesn't turn out to be the happy ending that I'd wish for, at least I don't wanna be hurt in the end.. We've been on the phone for hours for some nights already, talking about random stuff. I really like talking to her, because we shared many similar topics. And even though sometimes when the topic involved doesn't put me on the right page of her, just being there, listening to her voice, is good enough for me, in fact that's all I ask of her. I'm glad that at least she's willing to share some secrets with me, not all yet, but at least I know she trusts me to a certain extent. Knowing such a beautiful person has probably the best thing that ever happened in my life, no regrets, no turning back.. xD

And then my PTPTN loan finally arrived, after much delay! But I guess compared to others, I guess I'm considered lucky that my application took around 4 months to complete. I received RM15K+, which was rather strange because I was initially approved of RM40K, to be given out in 3 years. So technically I should be given RM13K this year, but I got 2K more for some reason. Count myself lucky then... RM12K was gone within a week, paying my school fees, and returning my best friend Arthur the 2.5K I borrowed from him to nuy my Canon EOS 450D. As it stands now, my bank balance is at a mere RM4K, and I've still got unpaid fees! How sad and pathetic! Then there's always this temptation to splurge on some shopping and indulging in heart's little wants.. But then again, I'm trying to resist alll these tiny bits of temptation, because I know one mistake is all it takes to destroy everything I have.

And there was a new arrival or new addition to the family. My uncle's wife finally gave birth to a baby boy after more than 10 hours in labour. Everyone was super duper excited and happy about this new arrival. we had first hand pictures of the baby even though we haven't seen the new kid on the block yet. Grandma was delighted at the arrival of her 6th grandchild, and I'm happy when grandma is happy.=)

The end of September, the beginning of October, and its Hari Raya today! Selamat Hari Raya to all my muslim friends, I hope the end of September marks a new fresh start for me in October. I'm definitely awake when September ends! There's now only 2 more monthes remaining in the year 2008, and I want to make full use of it. When I set down with a resolution in mind, usually I take it seriously, but then not long after it seems to die down for some reason. Hopefully this time around it be different. I'm expecting big things to come from this month

Mr September signing off to watch Aalborg vs Manchester United now!=)

Formula 1 invades Lion City, into the night!

2008-09-30T03:40:00.012+08:00

September 28 2008

Sunday, Overcast

Location: Marina Bay Street Circuit

Formula 1 has always been the sport that captures my attention, and when Singapore announced that it was hosting a street race in 2008, and a night race to be exact, I stood up and noticed. My city, my place of birth, my pride and my joy, was finally up for the challenge.. How it used to complain about the scarcity of land and space in the tiny Republic, and now its turning the streets of downtown Singapore into an F1 track..

The visibility concerns proved unfounded, the predicted thunderstorms never came, and the drivers quickly discovered they could overtake. The inaugural Singapore Grand Prix, the first Formula One event under lights, was a huge success and produced one of the most fascinating races of the season.

A race which was totally unpredictable right from the start, which saw Felipe Massa starting from pole, there were signs of rain but they never came.. Felipe Massa's race was ruined by a faulty red light in the Ferrari pits, where he sped off before the refueling pump was taken off his fuel tank, which caused disarray in the Ferrari garage. No one was hurt in that incident though one of Ferrari's crew member was dragged to the ground when Massa sped off.. There were a few incidents and crashes, 2 safety cars were deployed.. Kimi again was unlucky when he hit the wall with 6 laps to go, with his title challenge hanging by a thread. Renault's Fernando Alonso was the first night race winner, and it was Renault's first win in more than 2 seasons, championship leader Lewis Hamilton came in 2nd while Nico Rosberg was 3rd for Williams.. Some say Alonso's team mate's crash helped his cause, but on paper it was Alonso who did all the hard work, a perfect drive all night, everyone worked well to achieve this, no mistakes whatsoever, and a little wee bit of luck brought them this historic win in Singapore
F1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone suggested that the Singapore Grand Prix could very well be F1's jewel in the crown, if they continued hosting races as successful as this inaugural GP, certainly sending shivers down the spines of the organisers of the Monaco Grand Prix. My brother Duncan was there for qualifying, and boy he was happy! Its not easy to get a chance to see a Formula 1 car, yet alone at night racing!
I'm glad that I was part of such an historic event in the name of sport and automobile racing.. The first ever night race in history, on a street circuit, in my birthplace and hometown, won by Fernando Alonso, is all so sweet. Even though I couldn't be there to witness it, I was hooked on the TV for the live broadcast, and definitely for next year, one way or the other, I'm definitely going there to witness this extraordinary spectacle.. I'm so proud of Singapore, and I love you Lion City, this is where I belong. One day you'd be mine, one day I'll return to your shores and grace your magnificent skyline, mark my words

And has its so-called prosperous neighbour ran into hiding with its recent shameful politicking?

The Dark Racer, revving off for now=)

A mother, a daughter, 3 possible fathers, and a trip down the aisle you'll never forget

2008-09-29T21:14:00.013+08:00

The cast of Mamma Mia! and ABBA at the London Premiere

The teaser poster of Mamma Mia!

Sunday 28th September 2008

Today was crazy man! Sunday classes as usual, accompanied by bad weather.. First slot was Commercial law, I was so excited about this class because its the first Commercial slot that I've not been late for in the new semester year! Sadly, I had an upset stomach all day, which meant my mood was disrupted all morning, but what the heck.. Next slot was at 11:45, Land Law.. Started off quite well but then I was falling asleep soon after..

Lunch hour at 1. Just the same thing for me, either I skipped lunch or I just went out and grab something to munch on.. Then Ishmael and I had the craziest of ideas.. We sorta came out with the stupid idea of riding on his bike and going to Food Republic. Since he was still fasting, I felt kinda bad for him to see me eating, but then he was all cool.. I love ya Ishmael!.. Then we were there at Food Republic, another crazy idea came out from him! Skip next 2 classes, Tort and Trust, to watch movie at The Pavillion's renowned GSC cinema... I wasn't to keen on the idea, as we were scrolling the movie listing and found there were no movies that were appropriate with our time, so we decided to pass, headed off to the car park.. We slotted the ticket in, barrier came up, and then it was RAINING! What the hell! We turned back into the car park, and decided to watch whatever movie that was on.. He'd been telling me since the night before on how good Mamma Mia! was, I was dying to watch it, but I wanted to preserve that one for me and Alice, I wanted to take her there as it would certainly do a lot to help me in my quest!

I was very reluctant to watch Mamma Mia! this day itself, but Ish persuaded me too, because he was dying to go in for a 2nd time. He has already watched it for 3 times as we speak, and convinced me that I would come back for the 2nd time to watch with her, and so I agreed..

And the musical.. Simply the best musical I've ever watched, beats Enchanted hands down! You don't have to be an ABBA fan to experience the greatness of it, the storyline might lose out to some other romantic flicks, but the singing part and ending just makes you wanna watch it over and over again... The movies opens with a the main character's rendition of "I Have A Dream" by Amanda Seyfried, which so happens to be my favorite ABBA song, guess it all just happened straight away, and I was hooked! Other well known songs from ABBA were equally impressive, such as "Dancing Queen", "Take A Chance On Me", and my personal favorite from the whole musical movi, which was "Slipping Through My Fingers". I've watched it once now, and I intend to watch it for at least another 2 times, and hopefully the next one is with Alice!

This is a musical I would definitely recommend to everybody, regardless off whether you're an ABBA fan or not, you'd be truly touched by the whole movie.. At the end of it, you could feel the urgency of it, being a major blockbuster.. Everyone's been saying The Dark Knight has been the movie of the year, even I said that a couple of months before, but after today, I think Batman has some serious competition to deal with. I'd say its better than The Dark Knight, simply because the moment the final words start coming up, you begin to think what a great musical that was, the cast, the plot, and the whole storyline, it just fits perfectly, whereas for The Dark Knight, after finishing it, you begin to wonder what just happened, no doubt its an incredible movie, but it takes you time to digest what just happened back then. Mamma Mia! is simply the perfect movie date for anyone, boys and girls, its different to other musicals, I can't wait for the Broadway Musical to arrive on our shores this December

Our song a.k.a Taylor Swift

2008-09-29T04:09:00.012+08:00

This is a snippet of a little poem that rhymes, drafted by Alice

and me on MSN before we met at

The Republic

Lets go watch Man U

I will come pick you

Republic is the venue

Red one S size sure fit u

White one size won't fit you

This poem might sound rather lightweight, but the spontaneity of it makes all

the better, waiting and anticipating a good match between Chelsea and Man

Utd

SOS

2008-09-25T16:33:00.006+08:00

25th September 2008 Cloudy

A cloudy day to reflect my sickening emotions, on the longest night of my life, I found myself in the most precarious position of talking to her.. It all started off well, until she asked me had I given up on us, then i just let it all out to her, being honest and all about how i felt, then all of a sudden she gave me her blog, I was surprised at that, because I never knew she had a blog, and I gave her mine.. I read hers, and she read mine as well I guess.. We were silent for 20mins on MSN, I was just waitng for her to respond to me, and finally she did. She asked me what was going on in my mind, I just responded saying whatever was in my blog is what I was thinking at the moment.. I asked her the same thing, she too said whatever was in her blog, it was what she was thinking too..

I read hers, and soon I understood that she went through a lot just to get where she is now. For a while, I thought she was selfish, and me just being foolish at pursuing this lost cause. I soon realised there was more there is to it. She had 4 posts so far, a relatively newcomer in the world of blogging. The reason why her blog's URL wasn't in her Facebook profile was because she never wanted others to see it, and I was glad that she shared it with me. She went through a lot to be where she is now, she cut her Form 6 life after 2 months into it, and went on to pursue her dream course of mass communication, at SEGI college in Subang Jaya, so near to my old house in USJ. She had to be separated from her friends and family back in Ipoh, and most of all, she had to go through a few conflicts with her dad just to get to where she was now. Now, all of that commands respect and I saluted her for her bravery in making such tough choices and decisions. If it was me, I'm not too sure if I had such courage and bravery to do do, and she deserved my respect..

I like her a lot because of that, because of what she stands for, her courage to make such decisions. If I were in her shoes, I doubt if I even had the ba**s to even consider doing such a thing, I bet I'd even be more homesick than her.. I respect her decision, but I'd just wait and see things to unfold itself. In the mean time, I'll just left fate decide its next course of action.. There's just so much I can say about her, I bet this blog space ain't enough to write it all down.. All I know she's this fantastically amazing girl, whom I know, isn't too keen on me, yet. I hope I used the word "yet" here correctly, sigh, all I can do now is not rush things and see how things go.. What can I say? My luck, being at the wrong place at the wrong time, but absolutely without any regrets knowing her whatsoever..

Build up to Liverpool vs Manchester United

2008-09-12T23:29:00.005+08:00

LIVERPOOL stars Fernando Torres and Steven Gerrard have been given the green light to take on arch rivals Manchester United.

The two sides square up at Anfield tomorrow in their first big test of the new season.

England midfielder Gerrard and Spain striker Torres missed the World Cup qualifiers for their countries earlier this week.

But Reds boss Rafa Benitez has revealed they will both be back to face United after returning to training today.

He said: "They are both much better. They came through a full training session this morning.

"It wasn't a very hard session but they will both be in the squad. If they are in the squad then they can play.

"It's important for us to have these two players of quality who can change a game.

"I'm not surprised they are available because the medical staff have done a good job and the players have been working really hard with the physios to get fit.

Lauda slams 'stupid decision' by FIA

2008-09-12T22:55:00.003+08:00

NIKI LAUDA has described the decision that robbed Lewis Hamilton of victory in the Belgian Grand Prix as being “the worst judgment in the history of F1”.

The three-time world champion driver said the sport was close to losing its integrity after Hamilton had been hit with a retrospective 25-second drive-through penalty for 'cutting a corner and gaining an advantage'.

"I do not understand this completely wrong decision," said Lauda.

Hamilton had attempted to overtake Kimi Raikkonen at the Bus Stop chicane at the end of lap 42 of the Spa Francorchamps circuit, but ended up using the run off area to avoid a collision.

Lauda said: "Lewis had an advantage, but then he let him [Raikkonen] go by, then he simply out-braked him into the corner.

"There was no slipstreaming involved, nothing.

"If Lewis had stayed behind Kimi through the chicane, he would have passed him in front of the pits, because Lewis and the McLaren, at that time in the race in the wet, were so much quicker.

"So I do not understand this decision, and it's really bad for the sport because people watching will not watch any more because of this stupid decision."

Lauda, 59, also said that he could understand accusations that Ferrari were being shown favouritism by officials.

"In the past, there have always been rumours and stories," said Lauda. "I've always been completely against them because they've never been proven - that Ferrari, because of its past and history, was always against McLaren with the stewards and the FIA, who if there was a decision, were in favour of Ferrari."

"I've always said this is bulls**t, that this is a sport and you have to be neutral.

"But the decision yesterday makes me believe that everyone is watching Ferrari in a positive way and McLaren in a very negative way.

"What developed yesterday is the biggest mess the sport has ever done.

"It's unbelievable how the best driver in yesterday's race makes no mistakes and only gets six points.

“This is the worst judgment in the history of F1, the most perverted judgment I have ever seen.”

McLaren have registered their intention to appeal.

Controversial Decision by the FIA?

2008-09-12T20:46:00.003+08:00

FURIOUS Lewis Hamilton was robbed of victory in the Belgian Grand Prix and blasted: I did nothing wrong.

The British ace was demoted from first to third after being hit by a 25-second penalty when stewards ruled he had gained an advantage by cutting a chicane two laps from home.

His McLaren team have vowed to contest it but the International Court of Appeal could rule they have no right to do so under regulations.

Hamilton, 23, fumed: “I did not break the rules, absolutely not.

“This is motor racing and if there’s a penalty then there’s something wrong because I was ahead going into that corner so I didn’t gain an advantage from it.”

Hamilton insisted he had to cut the chicane after being forced wide by Kimi Raikkonen.

He slowed to let his Ferrari rival through but regained the lead almost immediately leaving the stewards to rule he had still gained an advantage from running off the track.

Hamilton added: “I think it was fair and square so it would be absolutely wrong if I got a penalty. But you know what they’re like, so we will see.

“Kimi pushed me so wide I had no road left. I had to ask: If I stay where I am, I’m going to go over the kerb and hit him or I go left. So I went left.

“I understood I had to let him past so I did. The team came on the radio to also tell me to let him pass. I don’t know what more I could have done. I was accelerating so that I didn’t lose too much ground because I thought that would be unfair.

“Fortunately I got back in his slipstream. I dodged him and went up the inside and he hit me at the back.”

Hamilton and Raikkonen were called to see the three stewards who took two hours before ruling he had breached article 30.3.

He should have been given a drive-through penalty but as the race had finished they imposed a time penalty.

That dropped Hamilton behind Ferrari’s Felipe Massa, who he had beaten by over 14 seconds, and BMW’s Nick Heidfeld.

Massa now trails Hamilton by just two points with five races left going into Sunday’s Italian Grand Prix.

It is the FIFTH time in 13 races Hamilton has been penalised for an offence.

A stunned McLaren, who were fined a record £50million last year after being found guilty of spying on Ferrari, have eight days to confirm in writing their appeal.

The FIA will then call a hearing in Paris in the next few weeks. But under regulations there is no right of appeal for a drive-through penalty.

A new era for England under Fabio Capello?

2008-09-11T13:03:00.008+08:00

Thursday 5a.m

<> A caricature feat Walcott and Rooney, ready for WAR! (courtesy of The Sun UK)

Believe it or not, say it loud and say it proud, England are finally back on the world stage . 4-1 was the final score from Zagreb, even manager Fabio Capello couldn't believe what his team had done over the course of 90 minutes. The minute England broke the deadlock, even FA Chief Brian Barwick was celebrating like a 10-year-old England fan, they knew this was the most important goal of the Capello reign, the Italian 'messiah' they appointed on a US$11 million contract a year. Theo Walcott was the man of the night, being the youngest ever player to score a hattrick for England at the tender age of 19, and he's not even a regular starter for Arsenal!

I told myself that if England failed to impress me tonight, that was it, the last time I'm ever gonna see England don that famous white jersey. But hell they didn't disappoint. Despite starting off slowly and passing the ball cautiously, you could see their intention was to win the game the moment the whistle was blown. The dominated possession throughout. And though it was Croatia could threatened to score first when David james dropped the ball from an incoming corner, with Vedran Corluka hitting the side netting from the rebound, that was really their only chance throughout the night to really threaten the England backline. Walcott was brillant all night on the right, combining well with Wes Brown, causing their left sided players to be intimidated to go forward. And when the moment came, up step the 19 year old former Southampton player to score. A mistake while trying to clear Wayne Rooney's through ball which bounced off one of the Croatian players, headed into Walcott's path, and the England wonderkid calmly stroked it into the the right corner of the net

2nd half was where all the drama unfolded. Robert Kovac was given a straight red card for an alleged elbow on Joe Cole, which left the England midfielder in a state of dizziness. Joe Cole's head was later bleeding and he collapsed. Concerns all round the stadium as he was substitute by Jermaine Jenas, who made immediate impact on the left side of midfield. The 2nd goal came not long after from England, great link up play between Emile Heskey and Rooney which the latter found Walcott on the right, which Theo scored again from exactly the same position. Goal no. 2 from the buzzing teenager. England were on the attack not long after, Jermaine Jenas turning provider this time for Wayne Rooney to notch his 19th goal for country, and his first in 9 competitive atched for both club and country. Croatia pulled one back towards the end from substitute Mario Mandzukic. England should have really kept a clean sheet for this one, as it looked like John terry was fouled before the build up to the Croatia goal.

But it was England who had the last laugh. On the counter attack, Wayne Rooney cleverly beat one of the Croatia defenders, set up Theo Walcott, and he was one on one with the goalkeeper to score his hattrcik. And Bang! Low into the left corner with his left foot. What can't this teenager of my age do with his 2 feet? David Beckham came on 10 minutes from time, and the England clan of supporters gave an arousing applause, not for Beckham, but for the teenager who scored a hattrick and won England 3 very precious points. England manager Fabio Capello was definitely overjoyed by this outcome, having done what his predecessor had failed to do, that is beat Croatia. He was however more cautious on Walcott's performance, saying he needs the right guidance and direction from both club and national managers.

Guess I'll be watching England's next 2 World Cup qualifiers after all!

"Thinnest" Ipod ever?

2008-09-10T18:42:00.004+08:00

Apple launch 'thinnest' iPod

APPLE boss Steve Jobs came back from the "dead" last night to take the wraps off a revamped line of iPods.

Speculation has been rife that the 53-year-old Apple boss was seriously ill but despite looking gaunt and clearly had lost a lot of weight he introduced the thinnest ever made iPod at a press conference in San Francisco, beamed live to London.

He kicked off the event by flashing a huge message on a screen behind him: "The reports of my death are greatly exaggerated."

Steve played off a famous line from Mark Twain in referring to obituary preparedness on him that was accidentally posted by Bloomberg News and then retracted.

He showed off three new versions of the iPod Touch, the closest cousin to the iPhone.

An 8GB version of the new model will sell for £169 a 16GB version will be £219 and a 32 GB model will be £289.

The new iPod Touch is the thinnest the company has ever made.

He also introduced an upgraded iPod nano, which lets users shuffle songs by shaking it. They come in aluminium and a range of colours from purple to lime green.

The new nano's 8GB and 16GB versions will cost £109 and £149 respectively.

All the new versions will be in Apple stores within days Apple also introduced a updated iTunes version and a new feature, Genius, that lets iTunes shoppers get recommendations of songs or movies based on their interests.

iTunes, which now boasts 65 million accounts, will feature High Definition television shows and an updated browser allowing users to skim through album covers.

Mr Jobs said the new Genius function worked by taking one song and creating a play list based on the user's play list library and could also give suggestions of other songs the user might want to buy.

He said Apple had sold more than 160 million iPods since the MP3 player was introduced seven years ago.

Finally, he announced new software for the iPhone that would be free to all users and would "fix a lot of bugs" including dropped calls and connection problems reported by customers.

He said: "We're really, really excited about all these products. We think people are going to have a lot of fun."

2008-09-10T18:36:00.002+08:00

WE are all still here!
The world's most powerful physics experiment is well and truly under way.
Scientists cheered as a beam of proton particles completed their first circuit of the 27km long Large Hadron Collider (LHC).
At 8.30am today, the machine which some fear could create a giant black hole capable of swallowing the planet was switched on.
But the experts behind the biggest experiment in human history have spent the hours leading up to it performing a bizarre rap for the internet.

In the Large Hadron Rap – named after the £5billion Large Hadron Collider machine – a robotic voice meant to sound like disabled British genius Prof Stephen Hawking explains how the team is about “to drop some particle physics in da club”.

As the boffins dance around the European Nuclear Research Centre – known as CERN, using its French initials – their chief rapper called Alpinekat chants:
“The LHC accelerates the protons and the lead.
“And the things that it discovers will rock you in the head.
“We see asteroids and planets galore, “We know a black hole resides at each galaxy’s core.
“But even all that matter can not explain “What holds all these stars together something else remains.”

Beams
Scientists from 60 countries have been working 250ft underground on the project which is trying to recreate conditions in the first billionth of a second after the Big Bang dawn of the universe 14 billion years ago.
They aim to fire beams of protons at almost the speed of light in opposite directions through a 17-mile ring-shaped frozen tunnel.
Each beam will pack as much energy as a 93mph Eurostar train.

End of the world?

2008-09-10T18:35:00.004+08:00

Don't panic, there's time to try out every position in the Kama Sutra

WITH just nine days to go until the end of the world, here’s what you could get up to before it’s too late ...

1. Eat 27 Big Mac meals. Who’s counting the calories?

2. Visit all seven continents.

3. Try out all 64 Kama Sutra positions.

4. Watch the entire box sets of Lost, Heroes and Prison Break.

5. Cruise the River Nile.

6. Drive to Switzerland for a ringside seat of doomsday.

7. Complete Super Mario: The Lost Levels.

8. Catch England’s World Cup qualifiers against Andorra on Saturday and – if we’re still alive – England v Croatia on September 10 If we lose, it’ll feel like the end of the world anyway!

9. Cancel the milk and papers.

A new chapter

2008-09-07T22:11:00.004+08:00

Sunday 7th September 2008

Sunny

Today's one day I'm extremely looking forward to. Had only 5 hours of sleep, still unable to open my eye lids completely. Today's the day I begin Part 1 in college. I was late for first day, thanks to mum! Luckily, Ishmael was late too, later than me. First session was Commercial Law, which Mr Reuben was handling. It was kinda interesting at first look, but I was just afraid my performance in Contract the year before would affect me in this subject. 4 subjects for this year, with 3 compulsory and 1 optional. The 3 compulsory were Land Law, Law of Tort, and the hardest perhaps, Law of Trusts. There were 4 optional subjects to choose from, namely Commercial Law, Family Law, Criminology and Evidence

At first look, my choice would have been Evidence, because I had this idea that it was gonna be very interesting and what not, and my highest score was at Criminal law the year before. I was rather reluctant to take up Commercial law, but was sorta persuaded by friends to join in. I dropped evidence out of consideration because many people had this idea of taking Evidence in Part 2, so that was it. Family law was out of the picture at first consideration, and Criminology sounded pretty cool too, but then no one was on my side. After Commercial law, I began to doze off a little, probably because the whole week I've been staying up till 4 every night because of the Internet! The night before I stayed up late again, to watch England kick off their World Cup qualifying campaign against minnows Andorra in Spain. Was feeling very bored and ashamed at England's performance in the first 30 minutes, that I switched off the telly and went to bed. Just that I watched too much England and never seem to see them play well before.

Class all but ended at 5p.m. Evidence slot was after this, but I didn't bother going to. Took the KTM back to Klang, then walked to Klang bus terminal to look for a bus that could take me back to Setia Alam. Fortubately, there was one such bu, but it didn't turn into Setia Alam, just dropped me outside the main road, which was better than nothing really. the bus driver was kinda polite and all, something I've not seen in Malaysian bus drivers in quite some time already. Mum came and pick me up at the shop lots there as the walk back home would take me forever, but by car it would take less than 5 minutes.

Was looking forward to the Belgian F1 GP at Spa Francorchamps, Kimi Raikkonen's favorite track. Just as the race was about to begin, Astro cut off telecast and I called them to find out why all channels displayed the "this channel is not in your subscription". So I found out that our account was temporarily suspended due to non payment. All along payment was debited from mum's credit card. Mum was furious when she talked to the Customer Service Consultant. The problem was luckily rectified in 10 mins, but unfortunately I missed the start, where Kimi managed to jump to 1st place after starting 4th on the grid, but unfortunately he crashed out with only 2 laps to go to the chequered flag. Bad luck for Kimi again. Derek lit up some lanterns at night, in line with upcoming Mid-Autumn festival.

Same old Saturday

2008-09-07T22:01:00.003+08:00

Saturday 7th September 2008

Cloudy with heavy thunderstorms

As usual, have to send maids again, woke up unreasonably early on a Saturday morning. Serviced 5512 while waiting for them at Casa Subang, behind the Summit. Service was at SS15. To date, this has been the most satisfying service of all, because I fixed reverse backlights and sensor, and the best thing was, the mechanic managed to fix the screeching sound coming from the fan belt, and significantly, the car had more power when at 1st gear, so that was it. And I had breakfast all alone at Kai Xin, reading newspapers too. Then after all the sending and such, I returned to Setia Alam at 2p.m. The contractor responsible for cabinets drilled a home at my table, enabling efficient cable management for my PC. Finally the back is not so cluttered! But there was some clearing to do, and I set my sights on clearing the room all day. What a tiring day!

Hassling Friday

2008-09-06T02:03:00.004+08:00

Friday 5th September 2008

Sunny

Today's the day I'm supposed to buy a bank draft worth RM1554 to be addressed to "Pengarah Peperiksaan", to pay for my referral exam fees. Bought the bank draft at Public Bank and check my PTPTN bank balance, and still they haven't deposited the money in yet. How frustrating! Agreed to meet up with Jane at college, and I was running late as usual, she somehow was still waiting for me even after submitting all documents, but left the 50 cents stamp to be submitted together. She wanted to have lunch with me, but I passed it up because I had to deal with Part 1 registration too. Somehow, it made me feel she had 'something' for me, because lately she has been really close to me, but I hope its not just me making these false pretenses as usual.

As hassle as it was, because I was due to collect my original results slip today, and London missed out my yellow forms, that I'm supposed to fill up and submit them for referral purposes. now, I had to email this Richard Griffiths guy in London on how to proceed. What a hassle really! But then, I signed up for for Part 1, and for this procedure, I had to run to see some lecturer to meet her as I was referred, but then that was for the wrong reason, because she wanted to see the one who had to retake the whole exam, not referred. Altogether, I was running up and down all morning like a headless chicken. And then mum came up and paid the RM629 initial registration fee by signing with her credit card. And thats how my day fared.

Oh ya, now I recalled, almost had 2 incidences on the road. 1st was at KL, this Mercedes was switching into my lane then switching out, and slowing my lane down. So I horned him and when I drove past him, I stared real hard at him. Guessed he got offended, then he drove up side by side with me, and tried to do the same, but this poor arrogant Indian driver hit the car in front of him as he stared at me, serves him right, and I was laughing all the way, despite being nervous after hearing and seeing so many road rage incidents in the news.

2nd incident was at a roundabout. I was on my right way, evrything was fine for me, when this huge lorry came out. I stopped and gave way, and I was fine by it, then this f***ing Malay guy in a jeep just came out without even looking, and cut into my lane when I was in front of him, and I just horned all the way, and even tried to chase the mother f***er, but the roads had too many humps, so I just let go. It was in a predominantly Malay area at Taman Puchong Prima, just outside mum's office. I wonder when these f***ing Malay people will just grow the hell up. To be honest, I'm a bit of racist, but isn't it just a sad fact, that these Malay people just don't wanna improve themselves, and we find ourselves being ruled by these bunch of lo**rs. May God be with us all man, I really can't imagine Malaysia being like a Singapore if this continues. The name "Malaysia" itself suggests its only for the Malay people. Malaysia, truly disappointed!

Baby Boom!

2008-09-05T03:01:00.013+08:00

Thursday 4th September 2008

Cloudy with scattered rain

L-R: The doctor, the new born, Soo Mee and Uncle

The umbilical cord still attached

Duncan got the first chance to see the baby

Its smiling I think:)

Call it a happy occasion or whatever, my new cousin finally arrived at 2358 hrs, on 4th September 2008, at Thomson Medical Centre. My uncle was overjoyed at being a father for the very first time, not to mention my grandmother. If I had stayed on for one more night in Singapore, I would definitely had the opportunity to witness this phenomenon. I wished he would be named after me, like Stewart Looi, nice what, and also easy on the ears. its grandma's 6th grandchild altogether, and I think she's overjoyed at the moment. Hopefully this boy grows up to be a good person.

Dreadful Wednesday

2008-09-04T00:48:00.003+08:00

Wednesday 3rd September 2008

Overcast with heavy thunderstorms

Today's the day I probably dread the most, because its the day I'm returning back to KL. As usual it rained all day, but today's different, it poured so heavily that it reminded me of a scene from "The Day After Tomorrow". Was buying some food stuff for Duncan at NTUC, Thomson Plaza, formerly known as Yaohan, the mall I used to hanged out at when I was still a kid. As usual, I experienced some complications at the exit of the car park, because the the reader was faulty and couldn't read my cash card. Got stuck by the barrier for almost 10 minutes, another embarrassing ordeal with a Malaysian registered car at a Singapore public car park. That is why I hate driving around Singapore, unless I'm riding in a Singapore car, now that would be different. Other than that, SBS or MRT would be my preferred option.

But nevertheless, we still had to go home today. Was dreading every moment of it, but I felt the sooner I got on with it, the lesser the pain of having to miss 'home'. Left apartment at 3:30. grandma stayed behind because a new baby was expected 'in a week or two'. No jams at Causeway, surprisingly, but it was still raining all the way into JB. Stopped to refuel at our normal petrol station in JB town. Entered highway at around 4p.m and never looked back. Was raining all journey back to KL, only stopped when I neared KLIA. Was falling asleep all journey, so I stopped once to take a breather and to wash my face, or else I couldn't drive at all. But luckily, I managed to reach home with mum and Derek at 9p.m, with an average speed of 120km/h

Tuesday night in downtown Singapore

2008-09-04T00:45:00.007+08:00

Lets splash some water!

My Town!

My Town!

God i wish those tyres were my groove!
Up close and personal
This mean red machine belongs to Lewis!

Tuesday 2nd September 2008

Cloudy with intermittent rain

Took Duncan and mum to see his teacher on an appointment. Then took Uncle and wife to go for gynaecology appointment at Thomson Medical Centre, just opposite Duncan's school aat Balestier Hill Secondary School. Bought famed Chicken Rice at Wee Nam Kee, opposite Novena Square. Stayed at home all afternoon. Late evening was pouring like h*ll, took away food from Whampoa market, opposite apartment. Feeling really hungry. My appetite has improved dramatically since the past 2 weeks. Have been able to eat a lot, I noticed that my food intake has increased significantly, a sign for the better perhaps?

Wanted to try out my Canon EOS450D in downtown Singapore, especially at night when the lights are all turned on. I knew there was an McLaren F1 car on display at Paragon Shopping Centre, so that was my first stop. The display was part of some promotion project to promote F1 in Singapore in light of the upcoming Singapore F1 GP, the first ever night race to be staged in Singapore. What a race it would be, I can't wait to find out. Cheapest ticket as at $108, and almost 95% of tickets were already sold. So chances of me getting my hands on one were all but gone.

Duncan was there shooting for me, and I was busy shooting the car on display. Being able to go so close to the real thing, was euphoric for me. Even though I don't support McLaren and Lewis hamilton, but I am still a huge fan of Formula 1 racing. Been watching races on tele since 2000. My support goes wherever Kimi Raikkonen of Ferrari goes. After taking pictures of it for almost 30 mins, one friendly guy from the McLaren merchandise booth gave me 4 postcards or bookmarks, whatever you call 'em, i was so surprised and happy at the same time, because I knew they weren't cheap. Perhaps my perseverance paid off. The guy must have thought I was a die-hard fan, so he gave me those things. They were 4 bookmarks bearing the picture and information of McLaren's four main men, namely Lewis Hamilton, Heikki Kovalainen, Pedro de la Rosa and Gary Paffett.

Then we took bus 124 to City Hall, alighted and took the underpass all the way to The Esplanade, Theaters on the Bay, the structure that looks like a durian and all. It was really exciting, because I was snapping all the way and the scene of Singapore's night life is simply wonderful to see. Got a few pictures of the Merlion, The Esplanade and of course, Singapore's oldest hotel, The Fullerton Hotel. Then, after all that cam-whoring, we took a short walk to Marina Centre, and took bus 56 to Novena, where we switched to 139 back to Balestier Road. So convenient. Anyone, Malaysia? Took away some supper on way home, and that was my day. My baby Canon didn't disappoint one bit!

Deadline Day

2008-09-03T01:17:00.011+08:00

Tuesday Morning 2A.M

September 2

Cloudy

Today's the day when all transfer activity in the Barclays Premier League will come to an end. The team I love the most, Manchester United, finally got the player we've been targeting for almost 2 seasons now, Dimitar Berbatov. I was following the transfer news all night, on Sky Sports, The Sun newspaper, Daily Mail, The Guardian and many other news portal. the other highlights that surprised me were Manchester City, our main rivals, were sold by deposed former Thai PM Thaksin Shinawatra to a very wealthy Arabian group, called Abu Dhabi United Group, and soon after they launched bids for Berbatov and Robinho of Real Madrid, who was also on the verge of leaving for Chelsea. Luckily, Berbatov made the right decision, that is to join us at Man United, a move that he described as "a dream come true". When I found out the next morning, I leaped with joy, because finally our team has an out-and-out striker who can really score goals for fun, good in the air and has great finishing abilities. But City made life a bit hard for us, we had to increase the offer to 31 million pounds and offer Fraizer Campbell on loan to Tottenham so that the deal would go through. Berba will wear the No.9 shirt vacated by Louis Saha who left for Everton a day earlier. Below is the article by The Sun (UK)

Furious Spurs NEVER gave United permission to talk to the striker.
But they eventually agreed a £31million deal just before midnight and were persuaded not to make an official complaint.
Spurs had earlier accepted a £34m bid from Manchester City.
But City's new Arab owners never got to speak to him because United chief Alex Ferguson personally whisked him away from the airport.
Had Spurs chairman Daniel Levy gone ahead with the complaint, United could have faced a points deduction, massive fine and transfer ban.
Yet United helped keep the Londoners sweet by letting them have striker Fraizer Campbell, 20, on a year’s loan.
Berbatov, 27, has signed a £100,000-a- week, four-year deal at Old Trafford.
The Bulgarian said: “Joining United is a dream come true.
“I look forward to playing my part in helping this club win more honours.”
Fergie was delighted to finally capture the striker. He admitted: “This is a key signing.
“Dimitar is one of the best and most exciting strikers in world football.
“His style and ability will give the team a different dimension and I’m sure he will be a popular player with the fans.”

Monday blues

2008-09-02T00:31:00.009+08:00

Singapore gearing up for this month's inaugural F1 GP, posters along Orchard Road

Monday 1st August 2008

Cloudy

A new week begins, and so does a new month! Took a bus (139) ride to Sim Lim Square to scout around for a new lens cap, and eventually found one at a hefty price of $35! Then I had some nasi lemak at a coffee shop nearby. Then I hopped onto (65) and took a short route to Orchard Road, where I watched Wall-E at Lido Theatre, Shaw House. The theatre was really one of a kind. It had pictures of really old movie posters on the walls, with celebrity autographs on it. Some movies included Robin Hood starring Kevin Costner, The Godfather, and many many more old movie releases. Duncan was watching Wall-E too, but his show time was 30 mins earlier

I really don't know how to describe Wall-E. From what I see and hear, many reviews are saying it is as good as The Dark Knight. But really, maybe because it was me having not enough sleep the night before, for once in a movie I almost fell asleep. The theatre seats really suck man, it felt as if I was gonna fall off from my seat anytime. And the air condition wasn't working too well, not to mention the sound was nothing to shout about, and there was the tall pillar almost blocking my view and the screen. To top it all off, this is probably my worst ever movie I have ever seen in a cinema, not that the movie was bad, but the conditions of the cinema really took the gloss off everything. Wall-E was really cute and funny, everyone was laughing and smiling at its antics really. story line wise, its a different animation from the rest, I somehow thought that Wall-E could be as good as last year's Ratatouille, but I was utterly disappointed. i should have watched it at Cathay Cineplex Orchard instead, but the show time was at 1645, whereas Lido was at 1615, earlier and more suitable for me. Altogether, the movie was rather good, rating wise, I would give 7/10, nothing spectacular really, and it was rather cheap at $7 a ticket.

And the usual thing that I dreaded finally came. I knew this was coming all along, mum fell sick with a mild fever again, could really see the symptoms coming since morning, and my worst fears were confirmed when Duncan called me after the movie from home as I was on my way back. Was at Borders browsing through some Magazines on photography as I always do after Wall-E finished. Stayed home all night, scrapped plans to go out and shoot the city at night:(. Tomorrow then!

Sunday in Singapore

2008-08-31T19:26:00.018+08:00

My missing lens cap!

Just some random pictures I took on Sunday night

Chinatown brightly lit up

31st August 2008

Overcast with mild showers (Singapore)

Malaysia celebrates its 51st National Day today, even though I wasn't back home to see it through, I know Malaysians always take heart when Independence Day comes around, and I'm no exception to that. though I would love to see Malaysia make significant progress this time around. I have lingering doubts though. Sent Duncan to Suntec City as he is working there for the weekend as part of COMEX 2008, Singapore's Largest Annual IT Exhibition. After sending him, I managed to have a glimpse of Singapore's F1 street circuit, called the Marina Bay Street Circuit. Later, I was at the Whampoa Market all morning, scouring for meat and vegetables with mum. Signs of rain all morning, and eventually it did. Went home and slept the whole day, how redundant of me!

Sorta finally woke up at 5p.m. Had dinner which mum cooked, then took a drive to Suntec City via Orchard Road to pick up Duncan, and then have a look around the COMEX exhibition. Parking was an uphill task, cost $4.28 at Suntec Mall. COMEX exhibition was huge, 6 floors of non-stop technology products on display inculding Canon, Sony and Samsung among the brands on show. Was scouring for an external hard drive and Canon IS lens. Bad luck seem to hit me once again as I discovered my Canon lens cap was missing again! Was so angry and fustrated at myself, tried my kluck at asking the Canon guys whether they sold such caps or not, but received an emphatic "NO". So, was pretty much cursing myself all night after that, as I just bought a replacement cap that cost me RM68!. duncan was working for the Sony Walkman division, he somehow managed to persuade mum to buy him a new Sony Ericsson phone, and I sorta 'forced' mum to add a new "noise cancelling" earphones for me too, nett total was $316 spent!

Duncan managed to come out before 11.30. Took a slow drive downtown Singapore, then to Chinatown where the decorations for the upcoming Mooncake Festival were really a sight for sore eyes. you can't get this in Malaysia for sure, so much so for being multi-racial! Chinatown was really very well lit up, got home at around midnight, took away some 'mamak' food at the nearby coffee shop outside the condominum, and then stayed online until 5a.m almost! And thats how my Sunday went!

Singapore trip

2008-08-31T19:18:00.008+08:00

My first ever image taken using a tripod, in our apartment room at Balestier

Chasing rainbows: A pot of gold at the end of it perhaps? A storm brewing, and me clocking 120KPH

30th August 2008

Sunny, with scattered showers

Left for Singapore at 3p.m, after some dilly dallying in the morning. Top up RM100 into TnG, refueled, and set out at 3p.m, when it was raining. Stopped by McD at USJ Taipan to get some good offers on sundaes as it was Merdeka period. It was raining all the way until Seremban, stopped, then continued at Johor all the way till Singapore. Was trying to hold up my eyes all journey, because I was feeling very tired and all. Stopped at Pagoh rest area for grandma to come out and walk, so that she can loosen some of her muscles. Stopped not long later for mum to use the toilet, and for me too, at Ayer Itam. Reached JB at 8p.m, refueled at our normal Shell station in JB, my fuel efficiency was pretty good this time, used only 19.55 litres for the 350km journey, which I rarely drove above the 130km mark

Exchanged money at our normal money exchange area in JB, at Jln Wong Ah Fook, just outside the Malaysian customs checkpoint heading out of Malaysia. Exchange rate getting from bad to worse. RM1600 only managed to get $672. This shows how weak the Malaysian Ringgit is. Causeway jam was very very bad, all the way back to the Malaysian side, it was bumper to bumper, neck and neck. Probably because it was the weekend and that Sunday for a public holiday in Malaysia, so everybody was planning a weekend in Singapore. Finally entered Singapore at 10p.m.

Had dinner at the normal chinese restaurant at Balestier Road. Was late already, traffic police not allowing anybody to park at double yellow lines, luckily I was parked at a back lane. A carrier van was booked for illegal parking, despite early warnings from traffic men. Was having dinner, then this guy who works at the restaurant was pretty friendly, then we began chatting with him, about the social life in Singapore and Malaysia, because he noticed we were from across the Causeway as we were in a Malaysian-registered car. One of the things he said that I will never forget: "Singaporeans earn $1000 but pay $1.90 for a litre of petrol, but Malaysians on the other hand who have petroleum resources, earn RM1000 but pay RM2.55 for a litre of petrol", now how's that to be? We also talked about the quality of life which is indeed better in Singapore, my former PR status and all. It was quite nice to talk to this guy, whom I learnt was from Teluk Anson in Perak and had a wife from there too with 3 children now studying in Singapore.

Its Malaysia's 51st birthday tomorrow. I really hope Malaysia does progress and moves in the right direction, and be like Singapore one day, in terms of economial prosperity and infrastructural stability. And then we reached our house just 2 mins away form the reataurant, bathed and slept at around 2a.m, after the normal blogging, FB and MSN ritual:)

Absent from Avril

2008-08-31T18:52:00.005+08:00

29th August 2008
Sunny

Today's the day Avril performs live in KL, as part of her "The Best Damn Tour". Tonight's the night she kicks off the Asian leg of her world tour, and despite all the wild protests from some narrow-minded and conservative groups in KL, it would finally go through, thank God!

I couldn't go to my favorite artist's show, not because I didn't want to, but because I couldn't afford to. Already on a very tight budget this month, and had already spent too much on a new camera. Usually I would always be lucky in winning concert tickets from Hitz. FM, but not this time though. I thought I would be able to carry forward my luck from the Daughtry contest, but it wasn't to be. Hitz were running a contest though for Avril's show, but they required only Maxis 012 customers to download an Avril tune and SMS in during the cue to SMS. Even though without tickets to go, I wasn't too disappointed, partly because my results spoiled my whole day. To be frank, even though I was absent from Avril, I wasn't too hard on myself about it. Probably next time, Avril, when I could really afford those tickets, and when someone could really go with me.

That night, I had a very long chat with Sonia. We had a really really long chat that lasted throughout the night. She knew about my predicament and my sorrow, I also got to know about her recent one too. We had a really nice chat until 2a.m. She consoled me a lot, which I really appreciate. God, I think I'm beginning to like her a lot. It feels as if we can really click on things, but I know for her to fall for a guy like me is pretty hard, partly because we've never met before, except for the BRATs camp, but that too we hardly talked at camp, and the fact that we knew each other for only 2 weeks. Maybe she'll be my new best friend, then hopefully whatever progress that happens from there I shall see. She's a really nice and sweet 16-year-old girl. Her age might suggest some immaturity but I would gladly cancel that out. We had very nice topics tonight, we talked about religion, pre-marital s*x, her past relationship and a lot more. And I even got to know she once suffered from asthma like I do. Now there's some start! We sms a lot, MSN too sometimes could really stretch till 4 in the morning, tonight's a perfect testimony of that.

Even she was happy because we had so much to talk about for once this whole week. And I kept wondering that night, maybe there's light at the end of the tunnel, because at least something really positive happened between me and Sonia on such a bad day for me. Glad to have a good friend like her. Hopefully I can be there for her on the next time she's sad or down, like she was there for me tonight, but of course, I hoped that day will never come, because I want her to be positive and cheerful always, as her MSN name would suggest:)

D-Day

2008-08-31T18:33:00.002+08:00

Friday 29th August 2008
Sunny, with overcast skies

Today's the day I learn about my fate. Today's the day I'll know what's in store for me. Today's the day I reap the dividends of my tireless efforts, or was it?

Was pretty much pre-occupied with mum's business all morning, driving here and there. Left office for college at 2p.m. When I reached there, was a little surprised with the amount of people there to collect thier Intermediate results. Luckily Ishmael was there to support me. When I was about to receive the results, when the guy at the post was looking through the candidate numbers, I was so praying that what Ishmael told me last night, was nothing but a ruthless prank, just to scare me a little. I knew the chances of a pass were super slim, nonetheless, I took it as a man, like a man, with a man! When he found my results slips, he said:"I'm so sorry, you have to be referred". Was expecting that though. Mum wasn't too angry or furious with me, she was more disappointed by the fact that I failed miserably, way below my standards, and wasn't too happy at all about the exam fees that I shouldn't be thinking about now. But nonetheless, the damage had already been done. Contract law had always been my Achilles heel. I've always been trying to avoid it, even when exams were just around the corner. Today I learnt a lesson, and the lesson is never hide from your enemy, but instead face up to it, and take it as I am. I failed to do that 3 months ago, but for the next 2 months, that is certainly what I must do

Surprise, Surprise

2008-08-29T18:49:00.002+08:00

Thursday 28th August 2008
Cloudy with intermittent rain

UOL results were supposed to be due tomorrow. Was drafting an email when I suddenly saw the "Inbox" folder blinked. Was an email link from London where I could check my results online. I clicked it, but I couldn't access my resluts yet as I had forgot all about my candidate number. So I called up Wong and checked his results, which was good for him because he had scored almost 50+ for every subject. Now, I had already recalled my candidate number, 31695, but whenever I clicked on the link again, Wong's results would appear. Anxious, I called up Ishmael who had earlier nudged me about this thing. Asked him to do me a favour and check my results.

He entered all my particulars,his first words when my results popped out were:"Oh my God, I've got bad news, you really want to know your results?". I was like, "you already told me it was bad news, so just spit it out". I had to be referrred on Contract law, which I knew was not a good thing, because I knew it was going to cost a lot, and would further hinder my progress into Part 1. All in all, I was very disappointed and sad the whole night. I didn't sleep, not because I wasn't tired, but simply because I couldn't get my head off my astonishing results. The highest I got was 54 for Criminal law, widely unexpected of me. To add salt to the wound, I only got 40, a mere pass for Public Law which was regarded as my favorite subject!

I could hardly think straight that night, but luckily Jane was online. She somehow reassured me and restored some of my confidence, and to some extent I was happy that I had a partner in this struggle, not that I was happy that she had to be referred with Common law, but that at least someone I knew would be accompanying me in this testing times. From what I knew, referral exams were usually held sometime in October or November, so at least I had 2 months to prepare for it.

Death And All His Men

2008-08-27T22:10:00.004+08:00

I used to rule the world

Seas would rise when I gave the word

Now in the morning I sleep alone

Sweep the streets I used to own

I used to roll the dice

Feel the fear in my enemies eyes

Listen as the crowd would sing:

"Now the old king is dead! Long live the king!"

One minute I held the key

Next the walls were closed on me

And I discovered that my castles stand

Upon pillars of salt, and pillars of sand

I hear Jerusalem bells are ringing

Roman Cavalry choirs are singing

Be my mirror my sword and shield

My missionaries in a foreign field

For some reason I can not explain

Once you know there was never, never an honest word

That was when I ruled the world

(Ohhh)

It was the wicked and wild wind

Blew down the doors to let me in.

Shattered windows and the sound of drums

People could not believe what I'd become

Revolutionaries Wait

For my head on a silver plate

Just a puppet on a lonely string

Oh who would ever want to be king?

I hear Jerusalem bells are ringing

Roman Cavalry choirs are singing

Be my mirror my sword and shield

My missionaries in a foreign field

For some reason I can not explain

I know Saint Peter won't call my name

Never an honest word

And that was when I ruled the world

(Ohhhhh Ohhh Ohhh)

Hear Jerusalem bells are ringings

Roman Cavalry choirs are singing

Be my mirror my sword and shield

My missionaries in a foreign field

For some reason I can not explain

I know Saint Peter will call my name

Never an honest word

But that was when I ruled the world

Oooooh Oooooh Oooooh

What an amazing song this was. So far, its definitely no.1 on my chart. Only "Low" by Flo-Rida and "I Kissed A Girl" by Katy Perry came close enough to mount a serious challenge on it

The magazine Q asked Chris Martin about the line "I know Saint Peter won't call my name" sung in "Viva la Vida". Martin replied: "It's about… You're not on the list. I was a naughty boy. It's always fascinated me that idea of finishing your life and then being analyzed on it. And this idea runs throughout most religions. That's why people blow up buildings. Because they think they're going to get lots of virgins. I always feel like saying, just join a band (laughs). That is the most frightening thing you could possibly say to somebody. Eternal damnation. I know about this stuff because I studied it. I was into it all. I know it. It's still mildly terrifying to me. And this is serious." When asked about the song, bass guitarist Guy Berryman said, "It’s a story about a king who’s lost his kingdom, and all the album’s artwork is based on the idea of revolutionaries and guerrillas."

Unlike the typical arrangement of Coldplay songs, in which the piano and/or guitar dominate, "Viva la Vida" mostly consists of a string section playing the song's upbeat riff, along with a steady bass drum beat, bass guitar, and Chris Martin's vocals; there is limited use of electric guitar in the song. Elements of the song were sampled by Kno of CunninLynguists and then by Swizz Beats on his song "That Oprah", and covered by dance artist Cinnamon, with vocals by Alisha King shortly after Coldplay's single release.

The song's Spanish title, "Viva la Vida" is taken from a painting by 20th century Mexican artist Frida Kahlo and translates as "Long live Life" in English.

Redundant

2008-08-26T23:35:00.003+08:00

Tuesday 26th August 2008

Cloudy with heavy showers throughout

Felt so redundant today. First time I woke up 7a.m to take Derek to school in a week since the school holidays began. And I just couldn't wake up, still experiencing fatigue from last week's exertions, after returning home from school, I didn't even bother to read the papers, and just crashed back onto my bed. The next time I opened eyes, it was already 10p.m. Nothing much to be done today, except I was online 24/7. Guess internet's my best friend now, am also preparing for this weekend's trip to down town Singapore. Things have to be done: Service the car, pack personal belongings, wash the car if possible, and get some Singapore dollars! Last resort, steal!

Monday blues

2008-08-26T02:44:00.002+08:00

Monday 25th of August 2008

Mostly cloudy, with moderate showers

Grandma had an orthopedic appointment today at Tengku Ampuan Rahimah Hospital in Klang, as part of her follow up programme before we head on down to Singapore next week. She is expected to stay there for 1 month, coinciding with my uncle's first ever new born. She wants to go there and help to do some cooking for the family, but we restrained her from doing anything that may risk her bone fracturing again.

Was so tired, so when we reached home at 2p.m, I just found my bed and crashed onto it, and never saw the light of day again until 8p.m, for dinner, and here I am now, blogging while waiting for Portsmouth vs Manchester United to start. In fact, this is my first game watching Manchester United in the BPL. I missed last week's dismal home 1-1 draw against Newcastle United because of the BRATs camp, so bye now!

Sunday retreat

2008-08-26T02:20:00.002+08:00

Sunday 24th August 2008

Showers with heavy thunderstorms

Slept for only 3 hours, woke up at 10a.m, felt strange that I wasn't tired at all. I stayed at home the whole day, and it rained the whole day too, occasional drizzle and heavy rain. later, I accompanied aunty to Yamaha's HQ at Kelana Jaya, to test the new home theatre system she just purchased. And to be honest, though I was impressed with the amplifier system, I wasn't so for the 5.1 speaker system. The moment I saw them, I knew they weren't gonna satisfy my ears, because they looked exactly like pc speakers! After that, we hurried back to Subang Jaya to scour for a Sen Heng shop which sells electrical appliances, because we needed a DVD player and we had a RM250 cash voucher.

The staff there recommended a JVC player to us, costing around RM349 but without the HDMI cable to fully enjoy movies in High Definition format, however, we could still use the S-Video cable to enhance our viewing pleasure, but not to the level of HD. I set up the whole system in less than an hour, started at 11.30 and finished everything at about 1a.m. Impressed with the video quality projected by the S-Video cable, but would still prefer the HDMI cable to have experience full HD.

Super Saturday Part II

2008-08-25T15:33:00.005+08:00

Saturday 23rd of August 2008

Cloudy with moderate showers

Part II of the amazing Saturday I just had. Went home from Sunway at 4p.m to freshen up a little. And all day I had been texting this really wonderful girl by the name of Sonia, whom I met at the BRATs camp a week ago. God, the moment we started texting we just couldn't stop. And I found that she's one hell of a girl. Yeah, thats her on the left. I find her really attractive and interesting. But no, I cannot have fake crushes anymore. I'll just wait and see how things pan out, hopefully it has a positive and happy ending. Or we'll just be the best of friends, and nothing more than that.

Had earlier agreed to join up with a group of college friends for a farewell gathering for Bin Hau, who's leaving for Cardiff, Wales on the 16th of September. Haven't seen him for more than a year. He looks a lot more handsome, but sadly, he said I never gained weight, and I look as slim as Kate Moss as ever! LOL! We agreed to meet up with the rest at Pavilion. Hate that place because of the distance, traffic and expensive parking rates, especially on weekends. Starting rates is RM3 for the 1st hour, and a dollar for every subsequent 1/2 hour, thats worse than broad daylight robbery! 6 of us were there, including me, Bin Hau, Nurul, Ishmael, Jane and Yin Yin

Had dinner at this really expensive restaurant, called Athena, serving mediterranean cuisines. Bloody chicken sandwich cost me RM24, probably the most expensive sandwich I've ever had! The whole bill turned out to be $300 over! And we paid our own shares. As if my wallet wasn't thin enough already, they suggested going to a nightclub. Although I was initially against it, but then I thought I needed a night off too, as I hadn't been to one in 8 months since Zouk's beach party in Sentosa Island, Singapore. Overall, this was my 8th time clubbing in a year, if I'm not mistaken. The 6 of us in my car drove to Asian Heritage Row, parked at Sheraton Imperial and got into BAR club, opened a bottle of Black Label from Johnny Walker, and the 6 of us slowly built up into the night.

That was at 11. By 12, we started hitting the dance floor. I was all over Jane, as our friends had expected. Just couldn't help it. And I happened to see someone I knew from BRATs. Yeah, it was her alright. I first saw her in the rest room, where mens and ladies room were merged, not surprising since it was a nightclub. then I saw her, we stared at each other for 2 seconds, then she walked off with her beau immediately, like she's trying to avoid me. That moment I just felt so sick of that, and I just kept drinking after that. 3 shots of whisky, down the throat. Felt so good, but the effects of it were ultra fast, in no time I felt my fingers beginning to numb, my head was spinning like a top, and my throat had some burning sensation in it. No doubt it felt good, but I knew I had to drive after this, had to send my friends home 1st before me actually getting home. A responsible drinker I was. To shrug off the alcohol in my body, I visited the gents about 5 times, I washed my face countless times, and I danced like there's no tomorrow. before I knew it, I was back to normal, albeit a little tired from last week's exertions etc. I was literally all over Jane, from head to hip, I just felt like I wanted her for the whole night, but many times when my hands were around her, she'll just try to resist me politely, and I understood her intentions, sorry if I was rude. We partied on down till about 3a.m. Yin Yin had to leave early because her ex-boyfriend was harassing her throughout the night. In what started out to be a raving party, the mood changed a little, it dipped, because Yin Yin had something going on, and she couldn't continue with us, and so she left earlier, 1 less person to sent later I thought, but I messed her presence.

Now it was 3 guys and 2 girl, Nurul left soon after and soon it was 3 guys and 1 girl left to party. We left at 3a.m, walked a few blocks down until we reached a mamak store, had a few things to eat and drink, so as to get the alcohol effect drowned out. Later, I sent Ish back to Pavilion so he could collect his bike there, and then I sent Jane back to Wangsa Maju, near TAR college, then I sent back Bin Hau to Damansara Indah, at Kota Damansara, along the NKVE, which meant the same highway I'd used to go back home as well. After everything, I reached home at 6a.m, and I almost fell asleep twice while driving back home. And I had calls from Jane that she got locked out of her house, but were quickly resolved

Super Saturday Part I

2008-08-24T11:25:00.010+08:00

Autograph session with Hitz DJs

Me and G-boy: Remember street GOTCHAs?
Jin from the Hitz Top 30,

Yay! Got to pose wit my favorite DJ!

JJ and Rudy, Malaysia's NO.1 Morning Crew

JJ and Rudy Live!

Probably one of the best Saturdays I've ever had in a long time, as in a really long long time! Started off the day by sending workers in Puchong, after that, at noon, I rushed to Sunway Pyramid for JJ and Rudy's Avril Wannabe Tour presented by Hotlink and Hitz.FM. Lots of freebies being given out like Ipods, Avril posters, Hotlink goodie bags and that very exclusive JJ and Rudy GOTCHA t-shirts, with the front written, "JJ and Rudy GOTCHA 'Ed me", and the back written, "and all I got was this stupid shirt". Cool shirt it was. I always felt like part of the Hitz family, like I know who's who in Hitz, I always win stuff from them, be it money, concert tickets, or even movie passes (God I love The Dark Knight passes they gave me). After all the contests and performances by Avril wannabes, a winner was finally chosen, being rewarded with RM 3000, a signature Avril fender guitar, and front row seats to catch Avril live on the 29th of August in KL. Wassup! I even got to meet the whole line up of DJs from Hitz, and got to take a picture with Dynamic Duo of JJ and Rudy of the Morning Crew. God! They were so hilarious! And I got all their autographs for the record! I even got the chance to meet G-Boy, the guy from street GOTCHAs that can only do what JJ and Rudy say.

It all ended at 3p.m. Then I rushed into Sunway to see if there was any Canon concept stores around, so that I can buy a replacement lens cap. There was a replacement, but came at a whopping RM68 just for a simple cover to protect the lens. And I checked out what lens I could buy, and found 1 that cost about RM1050, and that's gonna be my next target, to get an im proved lens for better and longer zooming capabilities

Grandma's birthday

2008-08-22T22:12:00.006+08:00

Started the day off in wet style, the moment I stepped out of the house, it poured like hell. Grandma celebrates her 72nd birthday today, low key celebration, with a cheese cake bought for RM58. Was busy driving van whole day as bloody driver is still on leave. Got to talk to Samantha a little. When she signed in, I was reluctant to acknowledge her, because I'd be lost for words and that things would be a little awkward. Funny, whenever I raised the subject abut her supposedly boyfriend, she cooly shrugged me off. So I just switched topics. She got selected for NS. Somehow, I felt pretty OK when talking to her. I didn't get drowned in the anticipation of expecting anything fruitful from the conversation. Somehow, I felt I could already begin to lift myself away from her, trying to forget her, just to keep her as a friend in my heart. Deep down, I knew I still had something for her, but NO, I kept telling myself, lose it now or risk losing yourself.

At least my appetite improved a lot today. This time around, I spent 20 mins on the eating table than compared to a measly 5 mins a couples of days ago when I returned from camp.

Grandma is 72 today. She's finally making some recovery from her nasty fall that broke a bone in her right leg. Now she's able to sit up and lie down without my help. As scheduled, we're all going down with her on the 31st of August as Uncle is expecting his newborn early September. Grandma looks forward for her 6th grandchild and she can't wait to go, all 6 boys, sigh... . I wish grandma a speedy recovery and long age, so that she can also see my own children, hehe..

Exhausted

2008-08-21T23:51:00.003+08:00

I barely had 3 hours of sleep today, after watching England drew haplessly 2-2 against a weakened Czech side. Besides that, I couldn't sleep at all. Still having some after effects of the workshop, and God, I still miss her deeply, still can't get her off my mind. I was driving the van whole day today as our driver was on urgent leave. My room's in such a mess, clothes everywhere, both clean and dirty. My bed's not tidy at all, my table has rubbish everywhere. This is so unlike me. What is it with me? is it because of her? It is isn't it? Stewart, wake up, you and her are an impossible thing. Was speaking to one of my companions at BRATs on MSN at night, Ian, even he noticed something was going on between me and her. He said whatever decision I made, I should not regret it later. I live in Klang, she lives in Kajang. She's leaving for HK soon, I can't bear the sight of seeing her leave. I'm just too in love with her already, thats why its so hard to let it down. Should I go ahead and still try to hit her up, or should I just blow my brains out so I can put this matter to bed for good? Samantha, Samantha, getting to know you was one of the best things that ever happened to me. You're like a character that just sprang to life, flawless you are. At the same time, it feels like its my biggest regret of all time. Divine intervention perhaps? It works sometimes. Dad, if you're listening up there, I have this serious crush on this girl I knew several days ago. What should I do, what should I do? Its midnight now, I better go get some sleep because its gonna be another long day ahead of me, and I wish to dream of her while I sleep. genie, could you grant my wish?

BRATs Kajang 2008 Journal

2008-08-21T00:16:00.010+08:00

Just completed a 4D3N camp with the Star BRATs journalism programme at Kajang Country Heights Resort. It started at 1p.m and I was already there by 12 noon. A total of 43 participants were selected out of approximately 300 applications. And I guess I was the oldest one at 19. When all the ice breaking began, All in all, it was an amazing experience, I even expanded my contacts list by a huge margin. Started off on Saturday, we were introduced to various techniques of journalism and photograpghy, I managed to capture a few heart stopping images as well. Thanks to my Canon EOS450D, which certainly lived up to its tagline of 'delighting you always', was the star attraction at the workshop. Everyone was praising its accuracy and clarity of shots, and taking turns to have a go at it. We were very well fed at the resort, our villas had 3 rooms each, with spacious living rooms and ample room for beds, with a villa easy accommodating 8 people at a time. On Saturday, we were mostly given an overall preview of what was to be expected in the next few days. We got to test our photography skills, basic instructions etc. We paired with our respective groups, I was selected as Editor, and I suggested to name our team BRATs Republic, after my favourite band OneRepublic, and everyone was happy at that. With 9 people in a group including a senior BRAT, we knew teamwork was vital. Albert, Sue Ann, Samantha, me and Chern Yao were the ones who got along pretty well with each other.

Sunday we were off to a flying start, visiting Kajang town and reporting on things happening there, we were so scrambling for an hour there, we virtually weren't aware of what to do, just interviewed any random Tom, Dick, and Harry on the street. We entered churches, the market and a dancing centre, interviewed several people along the way, all in just a freaking hour! Guess thats the life of an aspiring journalist, learning to meet deadlines. The videos that we took were really just amateur stuff, nothing to brag about, but at least we worked hard for our team and it was just a learning process for us, steep learning curve as some would put it. Next day , there was more installed for us, we were scheduled to visit a palm oil estate, sudden change of plan because the other team who was scheduled to visit a prison in Kajang, did not have their IDs, so they switched with us, we got to go to prison! I was a bit uneasy at the idea at first thought, the journey there had an uneasy air of anticipation, not knowing what to expect from the visit. Entering the compound itself was an eye opener, had a sense of uneasiness in the atmosphere. Security was tight, inmates weren't allow to come near us, as the security personnel feared for our safety. The scariest part of all was seeing an inmate being led to the death row, where the death penalty was to be meted out, sentenced to hang. Cameras weren't allowed in, I was grateful at that, because had the cop in charge took my camera to snap pictures, they would surely have to confiscate my memory card temporarily to assist in their filtering process. All in all, I was glad BR went to prison instead of some palm oil estate, at least it makes me think twice now before committing a crime. One of the teachers there from NGOs even gave me a quote that I'll never forget, "It the law knew everything we did outside, we would be inside prison already

Rushing to meet deadlines were a norm for us throughout the workshop. We had to edit videos, make photo essays and sound slides on how the workshop went, etc. Occasional tempers did flare between members, but overall, we treated each other like the best of friends. Between all 4 groups, I think ours were the most laid back one, often laughing more than frowning. I used to be able to eat a lot while I'm at home, but due to some reason, I could not fill my stomach to the full, despite the array of food available there, I have to admit, there was never once we felt hungry. Meeting the senior men behind the scenes like Harry and Ian were amazing. They were out of this world, constantly making us laugh, and their company was truly unforgettable. I couldn't have asked for more. I even fell for a girl I knew I wasn't suppose to, but what the heck. We all had a great time. Come Monday night, nobody was planning of getting to bed early as it was our last day at the resort. Me and a few guys ventured to other girls rooms, to 'complete' assignments, as I saw her laid down on the bed fast asleep, I knew I wasn't motivated for anything else that night, so I just turned myself in back to my room reluctantly, hoping to see her for one last time tomorrow before all of us parted ways. We had our fair share of fun throughout, I'm even famous for a game I lost consecutively, on and on again. We had performances by each 4 groups, a traditional thing before the closing ceremony. Our group did the imitation thing, where we would imitate the characters of the people who stood out the most in camp. They were Niki, Nicholas a.k.a Nicole, Matthew (our senior BRAT) and many others. A wonderful and humorous experience by all 4 groups, but the best performance was probably the Indian monk with the distribution of a will that really caught our attention.

Tuesday morning, D-Day, last day, final day, call it whatever you want, today's our last day of an amazing experience, everybody's like asking their friends to write in their notepads, sort of like death note, *smiles*. I did something so foolish, that probably I'm gonna regret it for the rest of my life. I confessed to Sam, she didn't like it one bit, but I just couldn't control it. Stupid, stupid, stupid! How I wish I could turn back time. But I really liked her, was the girl of my dreams, like a movie character that came to life, simply stunning. I will never forget her, even though she said she was seeing someone else, as I said, to me, she'll only be that movie character that came to life and disappeared when the movie ended. And she's leaving for HK soon, and I played my cards wrongly, too fast. At the wrong place at the wrong time, hope I learn from this painful mistake. The journey back home for me was the most miserable I had felt in years, having to part ways with her. I tried hiding my emotions so that no one will notice, however, some did. Seeing her leave the resort was oh so painful. When I was driving back, my mind wasn't on the road, but was somewhere else, memories of me and her, sitting in the bus together on our assignments, having satay together where she'd pose for me, completing assignments together, I mean, I just grew so close to her, maybe there was where I fumbled, submerging myself right into her, like feeding myself into a lion's den. I had never felt so sad in years, the last time I remembered I went 2 days without smiling was when Dad died, but now, I'm determined to lose her out of my mind, before I slowly lose mine. I was too busy occupied thinking about her, that I almost slammed my car into others several times. But damn it Stewart, lose her or risk losing yourself! After all, we're still friends and nothing will ever change that. I wish her the best of luck in HK *sob sob*:(. I'm gonna miss her so badly, I'm already missing her since Tuesday. Hope that when she comes back from HK, something could materialise.

The Dark Knight shatters all records in the film industry

2008-08-04T23:21:00.002+08:00

Well well well, for my official first post, I can't believe I find myself reviewing what a great movie I just saw recently at Cathay Cineplex, The Dark Knight. And I have to thank Hitz. FM for being so kind in giving me those tickets, in particular Adam C and Moots from the 10-1p.m session. I never felt so excited at the movies before, mostly because I'm a huge Batman fan and that the death of Heath Ledger really left a lot of hype coming into the movie. It was certainly a big pleasure to be able to be among the first in the world to watch it on the silver screen, these preview passes could prove to be even more priceless than tickets to the latest James Bond movie, Quantum of Solace, would prove to be which is slated for release this Nov.7.

It started off really well. I almost had a scare when I was at the ticket collection counter put up by Hitz. FM, when I overheard the guy saying to the person in front of me that tickets were out even though he won them through a contest on Hitz. I was so scared my tickets were sacrificed as well, I was so afraid at that time because I even brought 4 of my family members along and it would be a pity to leave the place at 9p.m when it was just about to start on a Wednesday night. The next 180 mins proved to be the best 180 mins I've ever (emphasis added) spent in a cinema. Me and my brother were very looking forward to the sequel to Batman Begins in 2005. I have to admit, Batman Begins wasn't as good as it's highly acclaimed successor, but nonetheless I knew what to expect from The Dark Knight. Christian Bale returned as the caped crusader, despite my dislike for his height. The character that really enthused me was that of Heath Ledger. The Joker wasn't particularly my favourite character due to the excessive make-up on him. To me, his character was always a dark and gloomy one, a one that every one despised a lot. However, I was stunned, simply speechless after the scene of the bank robbery.

I hate to admit this, I've never really liked a villain in a movie before, never before. The closest that came before me was probably Megatron in last year's blockbuster Transformers, but that itself is still miles away if compared to that of The Joker. I love him, I really do. His favourite quote, 'Why so serious', turns out to be my favourite quote as well, no doubt. I'm even using it on MSN now. Unfortunately, Heath Ledger, the real life person who plays The Joker in The Dark Knight didn't live long enough to have a taste of his own success. What a pity! Before his accidental drug overdose in January 2008 which inevitably led to his untimely death, I barely knew this actor who hailed from Down Under, except for his Oscar performance in Ang lee's virtuoso 'Brokeback Mountain', other than that, he was a total stranger to me in the Hollywood circus.

Directed by Christopher Nolan, The Dark Knight turned out to be a huge, huge success. It grossed more than US$150,000,000 in it's opening weekend itself, surpassing the record set by Spiderman 3 last summer, a record finally broken from the web of Mr. Peter Parker himself. Christian Bale described Heath Ledger's portrayal of The Joker as an agent of chaos and destruction. Some even associated Ledger's death to his immense efforts in bringing out the dark side of The Joker. Whatever it is, it'll certainly remain in our memory for the rest of our lives, for those who watched it, a 5 star rating without a twinge of doubt. In The Dark Knight, the streets of Gotham city are under the safe protection of a caped crusader named Batman, whose secret identity is the spoilt playboy billionaire that goes by the name of Bruce Wayne. Still haunted by the death of his parents, which he still blames himself for, he sets out to defend a purpose and a cause that his father would have fought for had he been still alive, that is to unite the people of Gotham City and to eliminate all forms of evil.

Crime lords and even the mob are now afraid of the caped crusader who hunts for criminals at night. The cops who were once afraid of crossing these criminals are now finally able to carry out their duty without fear of duress and corruption. All is well until a serial criminal, who has a taste for the threatricals and leaves a playcard at every crime scene, threatens to dislodge peace in Gotham. He proposes to all the crime lords to eliminate the Bat, which they reluctantly agree, for a fee. The storyline is set up so well that it capture's everyone's attention. But he's not in for the money, but for the thrills and spills of killing. It's a perfect blend of humour and horror, a little romance in the form of a love triangle between Bruce Wayne and heroic Gotham City's District Attorney Harvey Dent. It's not a very happy ending though, as Batman has to sacrifice himself and be the scapegoat for the wrongdoings of Harvey Dent, who's now an evil person motivated by revenge by the death of his fiancee.

Plot aside, I'm still speechless about Heath Ledger's perfect portrayal of The Joker, simply breath taking. These kind of performances don't come around too often, but credit has also to be given to Gary Oldman who plays Lieutenant Jim Gordon and Aaron Eckhart who plays Two-Face. All of my friends, even those who rarely leave their nests to even go out and eat, took time off to catch this blockbuster, have all come out and say how brilliant it was, how spectacular the action was, the CGI effects and all. As for me, I still can't stop talking about it, when I wake up in the morning, and when the lights go out at night, I just can't stop quoting phrases from The Joker, and whoever I meet, be it friends or even the cashier at the grocery store, I would always ask this question, 'Have you watched The Dark Knight?' It has certainly left a mark on me, as it probably did with Mr. Ledger, which ultimately led to his death. I'm not trying to speculate anything or whatsoever, but that kind of performance certainly deserves more than an Oscar award, it demands a 110 percent effort in bringing out the best in The Joker, and probably, just probably Mr. Ledger gave more than he could, possibly much more than he could, which had a significant effect, a negative effect perhaps, could have been a factor which led to his death.

The only movie whiched I watched more than once in a cinema was Transformers, I wished I had the time to watch it 5 times, or even more. With the influx of Blu Ray DVD formats now, which leaves prices at a ceiling hihg, I pledge to make The Dark Knight my very first Blu Ray Format DVD purchase, when it finally comes out in the blue.