3752 Miles From Home

Love From SG

2011-09-24T05:55:00.004+10:00

Night out without me. I'm sad. But as crazy as they always are, they took pictures to send me. Missing people in Singapore right now.

And that includes you as well.

The Truth Is

2011-09-14T23:02:00.000+10:00

Well the truth is, I'd never have got to know what you're thinking, yet you're a whirlpool of thoughts in my mind.

The truth is, you'd never have felt a single touch, but your every word is a catalyst to the emotions of my vitreous heart.

The truth is, there aren't many steps left, before you finally walk away.

The truth is, the stars may have aligned, but they collide, crash and burn all the same.

And the truth is, I'd have loved you so much more, if our song hadn't gone off tune.

Hiatus

2011-07-09T17:34:00.000+10:00

As I'm on vacation, so is my blog.

Will be back soon.

What's Left To Do Part II

2011-06-05T21:37:00.001+10:00

~~Writing Journalism~~

News Feature (900 words) - due 7th June
Final Report (1200) - 7th June

~~Net Communication~~

Blog (3 more posts: 1 informal, 2 formal) + redesigning of blog layout - 6th June

~~Sexual Politics~~

Essay (2000) - 6th June

Critical Analytical Skills

Essay (2000) - 14th June

The last hurdle.

Exchange

2011-05-20T00:44:00.005+10:00

The thought of going for an exchange in my Year 3 final semester has sparked my interest lately. Come to think of it, it's quite an experience and not much further costs will be incurred, which is the main concern. As such, I guess I'll be planning my course structure for the next 3 semesters to suit this path, just in case I decide to go for it in the end.

Essentially, I'll keep all 4 of my Year 3 Sociology modules for the final semester because there are more options to do Sociology as compared to Media elsewhere. I'm looking at the University of Manchester in the UK, and Scandinavian countries, in particular Lund University in Sweden where Marc went. Not too keen on Finland, Denmark and Norway though but it's worth a thought.

Considerations:

1) Cost. Tuition fees will be the same. How it works is that I'll go for exchange but I'll pay the same fees here at UniMelb. Accommodation-wise I pay for accommodation in country of exchange and obviously I would not be renting a place here in Melbourne when I'm away. So it works out to be about the same in the end. I might even save because school only starts in September in the UK. So from June to August I'll head back to Singapore.

2) On the topic of accommodation, Clarence is planning to go for an exchange in our final semester as well. He's moving out next semester, while I'm staying put to see out my lease. Then I'll probably move in with him again the semester after next. Long story. Anyway the point is, it might be yet another issue if he goes for exchange and I don't, then we'll have to look for someone to take over his part of the rent again.

3) Grades. On exchange, you'll only need to pass your subjects. So far, I guess I can qualify for Scandinavia, UK is probably a tad more difficult to qualify. But by 2 semesters later, I should be able to do it. Working towards that. And by just passing my subjects while on exchange, my 'good' grades can be preserved.

4) Experience. Well, it's always good to experience a different education system and life in another country. To look at it more superficially though, I want to go to Manchester for obvious reasons. And Scandinavia to see the Northern Lights.

Much to think about and the good thing is I still have quite a lot of time to consider in greater detail. Probably there are factors I haven't considered yet as well but tentatively this is it.

What's Left To Do

2011-05-16T21:20:00.009+10:00

Writing Journalism

News Feature (900 words) - due 7th June
Final Report (1200) - 7th June

Net Communication

Blog (3 more posts: 1 informal, 2 formal) + redesigning of blog layout - 6th June

Sexual Politics

Essay (2000) - 6th June

Critical Analytical Skills

Essay (2000) - 14th June

Get started.

All Smiles

2011-05-15T03:00:00.006+10:00

A few of the players after securing the all-important record 19th league title. Photo taken from Rio Ferdinand's Twitter account.

From left: Darron Gibson, Michael Carrick, Ryan Giggs, Paul Scholes, Rio Ferdinand, Wes Brown, Michael Owen, Chris Smalling.

Trophy presentation next week at home ground Old Trafford. :)

And then bring it on Barcelona, for the Champions League final.

Totally Random

2011-05-07T02:02:00.006+10:00

Just the other night I was watching soccer with Alvin, online that is, and usually his live stream will lag mine by a couple of minutes so I'm always the one telling him whenever a goal is scored. That night he texted me first with a "GOOAALLL!!" and I was quite surprised that this time I was lagging him. Turned out to be that he was just kidding.

So, I decided to let him have a taste of his own medicine. A while later I did the exact same thing to him, but before he could reply and probably less than a minute after I texted him, ManUtd really scored! I was just dumbstruck. And when he asked me who scored I replied so excitedly, "EH ACTUALLY I WAS ONLY KIDDING BUT THEY REALLY SCORED!!"

Talk about being psychic.

p.s. This post is really totally random.

Sexual Preferences

2011-05-03T19:50:00.006+10:00

Sexual Politics lecture was rather intense today. Especially when you have a radical feminist lesbian professor who insists that sexual orientation is totally socially constructed, while the whole lecture theatre feels that there are biological factors contributing to it to a certain extent. In the end you get two extreme views and the argument between lecturer and students got pretty heated up.

Personally, I subscribe to the norm, that both biological factors (testosterone & estrogen) and social construction play a part in our sexual orientation. Both are equally important when it comes to how one becomes heterosexual or homosexual.

My professor may be right when she says that we have a choice in deciding our sexual orientation. For instance we can open our minds and accept the fact that we can like people of the same gender. But we're right too, because we have scientific backing. Who's to say who's wrong?

Election Time!

2011-04-24T23:48:00.009+10:00

This is why I always feel that army regulars should just stay in the army, for life.

#nobrains

Edit:

Should watch the clips on YouTube where he spoke dialect in political speeches - acting very unclassy. Then again, it is said that he speaks like that so that he can identify with people better. In other words, it's fake. And for someone who studied in RJC, Cambridge, MIT - and a very good speaker at that, I'm not sure if that reason is justified, if it's true, because it just gives him a very fake persona in that sense.

A Whole Lot Of Nonsense With Alvin

2011-04-24T15:34:00.005+10:00

"ngiam keng kua sex book" translates to "say prayer while reading sex book, or porn mag for that matter (because I don't know what the hell is a "sex book", haha)".

Because in life, there is always much irony in a lot of things.

2011-04-14T01:22:00.003+10:00

"When you embark on a journey together, you walk on together till the end. That's brotherhood."

2011-04-05T14:18:00.003+10:00

Knowing me and my phobia for dragonflies,

Someday, someone will be able to make me "catch a dragonfly for ya.."

Yes, for me it's as bad as catching a grenade.

Such a glamorous name don't you think?

I'd prefer to call it the "douchebagfly".

Nauseated by the thought of dragonflies already.

Back to NetComms essay.

Random Thoughts

2011-04-05T02:27:00.016+10:00

A night of random thoughts. Yea, as if my essay hasn't kill my brain cells enough.

Blogging from my phone now. And I was just thinking about how I freaking hate it when people say to me "You guess?", regardless of the situation.

"You guess how much this costs?"
"You guess what I had for lunch?"
"You guess how many pieces of shit I pooped out this morning?"

Yadda yadda. Thankfully nobody has asked me the third case yet.

And usually I would just say, "I don't wanna guess. You tell me."

I mean like, why go one big round and tell me the answer. Waste time.
And if you didn't intend to tell me the answer in the first place, why ask me to guess? Waste time.

Alvin and I share this similar issue with uncertainty. He would hand in his essay and immediately hope that he can know how well he did for it. That's just his thing. I'm pretty chill when it comes to academics though. I go by the theory "I did my best, so I'll just wait and see."

But when it comes to other issues, I absolutely hate uncertainty and suspense. Some people can live with it though, ignorance is bliss to them. But definitely not for me.

Let's just all be straightforward people with no reservations, unless of course it concerns a grave matter and by saying things out means that it will cause a detrimental effect or have dire consequences to..whatever. You get my drift. Now that's a different thing altogether. But simple things like, when you feel the need to compliment someone, do it. Or when you wanna diss someone off, do it. It may hurt their feelings, but it's truly how you feel anyway. The bottomline is, tell people how you feel. It's more genuine that way.

Don't don a mask unless you have to literally, like at a masquerade, or if you're a clown or something. Okay, clowns paint their faces but that's not the point.

The world will be a different place, when nothing's too hard to say, be it good or bad.

At least, we're honest with ourselves.

Of Wishes And Reality

2011-04-05T01:29:00.004+10:00

You know, I swore off making birthday wishes or any wishes of any sorts. Because I don't believe in them. Tested and proven.

Wishing wells too, from the one in Japan, to the one in Taiwan and finally to the one in Italy. They all didn't come true. In fact, reality turned out worse than what I wished for. It has an amazing tendency to take my wish, turn it 180 degrees round, and accelerate it with the fastest of all speeds.

That's why I gave up making any more wishes.

But that day I still made one over my birthday cake. Because my friends told me to, and I was kinda 'pressured' at that point in time. And so I did, without thinking. Now that I think about it, I should have wished for something that I didn't want, so that maybe, just maybe, I would get something that I actually want or hope for, for that matter.

As they say, "Be careful what you wish for."

Too late for regrets.

I think my counter-wish is acting real fast, and coming true.

Thoughtful Conversations

2011-03-28T03:00:00.007+11:00

Was talking to a friend online tonight. Let's just call her Girl A, so that her identity is protected.

PM 11:05:02 Girl A: Andy. U r a really cool person. As a friend and maybe even a boyfriend. Be upset but the whole good guy don't deserve this crap thing is false

PM 11:18:39 Girl A: I wish u could see urself through my eyes

PM 11:18:46 Girl A: Then u would appreciate urself more

PM 11:39:22 Girl A: In all honesty, I just told XX just now, Andy is a very sweet guy n I would like to date him if I was ready

PM 11:39:38 Girl A: See? Very straightforward right

PM 11:41:04 Girl A: So I hope that boost ur ego Abit n make u feel better about urself being a great guy.

PM 11:41:26 Girl A: If not I won't bear my thoughts out so openly to u if I feel that it wouldn't help u

Not that I need a morale booster or anything, that's not the point. Nor am I experiencing a period of low self-esteem and wallowing in self-pity, that would never happen, because I've always believed that one should always love oneself no matter what. The point is, I'm grateful for people like that to put me back on track when the bros are so far away. So thank you, Girl A.

p.s. This is not bragging, either.

Lookalikes

2011-03-26T17:35:00.008+11:00

Top: Andy Penders. Ex-colleague of mine at ESPN.

Bottom: Javier Hernandez. Man Utd's new & rising Mexican striker. Nicknamed "Chicharito" meaning "Little Pea".

Okay well, they actually look more alike on tv, the photos don't do justice.

I remember the time when we were at MBS watching Manutd vs Liverpool. Chicharito was playing in that game but he was subbed out before the match ended. And guess who was the presenter of the match show? Haha. And I made a joke saying, "Eh look, Chicharito! No wonder he was subbed out, 'cause he needed to go shower and rush to the studio on time."

It got everybody laughing. Fun times.

WLIIA

2011-03-24T22:59:00.005+11:00

Excerpts of news from a game called Weird Newscasters from the show Whose Line Is It Anyway? This show is genius, cracks me up all the time.

"According to a recent scientific report men think about sex every 6 seconds, and because.. *pauses and smiles*"

"This just in.. Beverly Hills 90210, Cleveland Browns 3."

"After a disappointing summer, Humpty Dumpty had a great fall."

"Psychic convention cancelled due to unforeseen circumstances."

"NASA sends probe to Uranus, people everywhere giggle."

"Veteran British rockers Roger Daltrey, Pete Townsend and John Entwistle broke into an animal hospital today and set free all of the doberman pinschers. The police said that they have now proved that The Who let the dogs out."

"A man who was swallowed whole by a whale escaped today by running all the way down to the end until he was pooped out."

"A fight was started downtown by a man wearing a suit made completely of mirrors. The police said the man apologised once he had time to sit down and reflect."

"The great Zambonee, eccentric human cannonball, known for taking his lucky donkey to all his performances, escaped near tragedy today when the donkey climbed into the cannon muzzle just as Zambonee was taking off. It took the surgeons 3 hours to remove Zambonee's head from his ass."

and my favourite...

"Rudolph the red-nosed reindeer dead at 53. I know it is sad. Over Barcelona today the famed reindeer was hit by a flock of seagulls and a 747. Eyewitnesses report, that the reindeer in Spain was hit mainly by the plane."

2011-03-23T20:57:00.003+11:00

"would it be out of line to say that i love you, a little more than i should. and at the end of the day, when all hope is gone, i still hope to be the one that you'll turn to when you feel like the whole world has turned its back on you; never will i forsake someone like you. because you're beautiful like that. that's how i am. and that's how i'll always be."

Have You Ever

2011-03-21T19:42:00.005+11:00

You know, if I were to like a song, the lyrics must be able to relate to how I'm feeling at that moment. That's the first thing I look out for. They don't have to be really poetic, sometimes simplicity is beautiful too. Lyrics over music anytime, it has always been for me.

On the contrary, some people like a song because of its melody. For instance, Jason Mraz & Colbie Caillat's "Lucky" is a very nice song, but it's also a very happy song. Don't you feel that you'll like it more when you're feeling happy, yet it doesn't have any impact on you when you're feeling sad? Well, it's like that for me.

I listen to songs almost every night on my bed before I sleep, it's been a habit. I remember listening to Uncle Kracker's "Smile" at one point in time last semester for almost a week, because it literally made me smile just listening to it. And sometimes, you just seek solace in certain songs.

Pretty interesting how my song choices are selective according to my mood, and how they complement it for the night.

2011-03-18T15:14:00.002+11:00

"...and so I'll forget about you tonight. I promise. But I'll fall in love with you all over again tomorrow. And every single day."

Stoic; Poignant Yet Strong

2011-03-15T02:42:00.005+11:00

A friend asked me today..

"Why do you look so down these few days?"

Well, obviously she knows why, and she was just asking out of concern. I appreciate that.

"I don't know why also."

In all honesty I did not have an answer right there and then. I mean, perhaps I do know what's the reason, but I just didn't know what triggered the moody feelings in particular.

I forced a smile.

And somehow, seeing how Japan is suffering right now, I don't really see the need to smile, that much anyway. Stuff like that affects the whole world in one way or another, and you see people you don't know suffering, trying their best to rebuild and resume their lives again, trying their best to be strong. Inevitably, you would feel a lot for them and a heavy sense of benevolence, 'cause it's just so sad.

How can we then, as observers, laugh, be happy and don't give a damn about anything?

When can we ever be okay again?

Dear Japan

2011-03-15T01:00:00.005+11:00

picture courtesy of the age.

Hang in there. When times are tough, don't ever give up.

Soon, all will tide over and you'll grow up,

you'll grow up strong.

The whole world's praying for you.

She's Got You High

2011-03-13T16:38:00.001+11:00

A song from (500) Days Of Summer. Very catchy, I like it.

Happy Birthday Bro!

2011-03-12T15:21:00.006+11:00

Simi "boy boy"?!

Anyway damn I'm next amongst the 5 of us. Getting old.

Under Maintenance

2011-03-08T20:07:00.008+11:00

My understudy from the army texted me on fb chat last night, telling me that he's started applying for his further studies in Australia. Future doctor there, haha.

And today, I texted my Chief Clerk this...

"hello ma'am! this is Andy, my australian number. just saying hi :) anyway sch has just started for Clarence and I and we're doing fine. hope you're good too. take care of yourself, and don't always be angry with the guys. haha."

Don't know what made me think of texting her but you know, things like that, if you could make someone's day and make them smile, why not?

All it takes is a simple text.

---------------------------------

On a separate issue, Marc came over and we cooked bak kut teh for dinner because the pork ribs are left in the fridge for quite a few days now. And we had fried fish with eggs and steak as well.

Not too bad cooking for the first time, as a group that is. Usually I would just cook my own share as Clarence is still eating out most of the time.

Life somehow feels adversely different this semester.

It's A Small World After All

2011-03-02T21:55:00.005+11:00

Just last night I met Charlotte, one of Clarence's friends from his secondary school, whom so coincidentally happens to be my ex-girlfriend's long lost cousin. Talk about a small world huh. And Charlotte texted me today when she realised, saying that thanks to me she's found her cousin after so long. Nice.

Somehow, I still do believe that people meet for a reason. Well, for some reason or another anyway. Whoever knew that this random guy would downgrade his PES status in the army, get transferred from the training section of the unit to my office, and be colleagues with me for a good 10 months or so. I'm talking about Clarence of course. And speaking of coincidence again, we realised that we'll be studying in the same university overseas and supposedly taking the same degree. Before he fell ill and couldn't make the trip last semester, that is. And now he's my roommate. Nonetheless, that's what it is.

C'est la vie. Such is life. Sometimes people come into your life, and they stay in it forever. Some people come, and they may not stay. But you know that they have made a difference and an impact in your life so much so that you hope that they would stay, even for just a bit longer. Just so, you know, you could show that you care and you would never wanna leave, no matter what happens or regardless of whether they think the same way. At least you've made your point across.

You can throw away an inanimate object when it gets useless, buy a new one, get it replaced. But humans, we're not inanimate objects. Each one of us are unique and special in our own little ways, and that's what makes every individual amazing, isn't it?

As cliché as it may sound, life is short. Live it up, and tell people that you appreciate them, before it gets too late.

Bernard

2011-02-28T00:57:00.007+11:00

So I met this new security guard at my place when I arrived on Friday. His name is Bernard (pronounced Bur-nard) and I think that he deserves a mention.

On Friday night, there was a huge party at the courtyard. Some end-of-0rientation thing. And when I walked back from 7-11 and entered my building, I was stopped by Bernard. Just so unfortunately, I was holding on to a temp card key as they changed all the keys after one semester and I've yet to receive mine. So there he was, suspecting that the temp card key was not genuine. Thereafter, he proceeded to look through the list of residents. Again, my face and name were not updated in the list yet. So I was explaining to him that I've just moved in and everything has not been settled yet. After some comtemplation he said, "Okay, you seem to be speaking the truth. I trust you. You're a good man." Boy, was I glad. Didn't want to go through all the trouble on my first day here just to get into my room.

Subsequently, I met him again last night standing right at the entrance of the building. And we initiated a conversation. I commented that he's very on his job and that previous security guards aren't like him. They slack off in some random corner after a while, not to mention even appearing at 4am in the morning. Bernard then said that this is his job, and he wants to keep people safe. In any case, residents should feel safe when he's around because he will make sure that no strangers or troublemakers hang around in the premises. He cannot tolerate that. And then we went on to talk about life in general. He said stuff like how we must always know our weaknesses but show our strength. In life, we didn't sign a contract to say that okay, I'm gonna be Bernard or I'm gonna be Andy. We're given this life we have and it's up to us to make the best of it. Wheelchair-bound people and the unfortunate didn't choose their lives as well. Therefore, he felt that he would always want to help people and keep them safe. And I gave him a few words of appreciation and he replied saying that as long as people do appreciate him doing his job he's very happy, that is also what keeps him going.

Midway through the conversation, I felt that he's very genuine and noble. A very different feeling I get from the initial 'big burly fierce' security guard impression. And I was thankful that we had this conversation, because things like that make you learn.

"When a door closes on you, a new one opens. Life has many opportunities and so much in store. I can tell that you're a good man. I'm a guard, I can read people fairly well. Maybe you won't get what you want now but it takes time and in future people will realise the good you have in you, and things will come back to you. But maybe by then you would have found something else even better for yourself. Always come out stronger than what you were before. And be true to yourself."

Dear Diary,

Today, I made friends with a security guard.

So Far Gone

2011-02-23T02:21:00.005+11:00

Blogging from my phone while waiting for Junwei and Marcus.
It's 2 more days till I step into that departure gate and board the plane back to Melbourne.

I guess I really do appreciate the time spent with family and friends during my return. But somehow, I'm feeling the need to go back, to study and you know, 'resume my life'. Would wanna be busy, occupy my schedule and not waste my time away.

Not surprisingly, one might have two different personalities in two different places. I'm saying might. The question is, when can you really be yourself? And even so, sometimes there are factors which don't allow you to be yourself. Don't get me wrong, I'm not facing an identity crisis, I do what I want, so long as it doesn't have any adverse effects on my life and the people around me. And this is me.

It's never easy being a nomad.

2011-02-20T18:49:00.002+11:00

just so you know you did not give me the wrong idea,

i knew it all along.

Dolce.

2011-02-08T03:20:00.003+11:00

Back from Italy.

And 16 days to Melbourne.

Once again, just when I've gotten comfortable to life back in Singapore again, I'm leaving once more. It probably feels a tad different from leaving Melbourne a couple of months back, but the general feeling is the same.

And things will always change no matter where we are. At the same time, it will always remain the same.

2011-01-16T00:47:00.003+11:00

"Once upon a time there was a boy who loved a girl, and her laughter was a question he wanted to spend his whole life answering."

- Nicole Krauss (The History Of Love)

Ocean Bay Resort, Bintan

2011-01-15T23:57:00.006+11:00

I'm back from Bintan. Would have preferred to stay a day longer but it was difficult to accomodate to everybody's schedules. Hmm come to think of it, it's only Junwei's work schedule. Ahh well.

The kelong and fishing pond area.

The little pussy that appeared out of nowhere and stayed around to watch us fish.

Our catch.

This time round we skipped the kayaking, beach volleyball, pool and massage and just concentrated on fishing. Caught many more fishes compared to the previous time and we couldn't finish eating everything in the end. Think I caught about 6-8 fishes.

And.. we spent a lot of time playing monopoly deal. Imagine playing till 5am in the morning because we decided to play 'first to 3 games' at like 3am before we slept. So until the end everybody was damn shagged with the exception of Marcus who slept first; Alvin was angsty, Junwei was yawning and tearing, I started talking shit and Zixuan was just complementing me talking/singing shit too.

Learned Mahjong as well. :)

Food was great. Every meal was seafood and there were like 5 or 6 dishes of mostly fish, crab, calamari, etc. Not forgetting the fishes that we caught which they cooked for us.

Slept for about 5 hours. And I think I dreamt of someone again, which made me even more tired. Hmm.

Overall I guess it's not too bad a trip. Just chill and you know.. forget the world for a while. (not that it could possibly happen but well, it's some form of relaxation.) Guess the company is always essential. The 5 of us will surely have fun no matter where we go or what we do. And we're thinking of going back again already. Don't think I'd have much time for that though, sadly.

Perhaps when you're far away, only then would you realise that you're a little more vulnerable than what you normally are. In a certain aspect, that is.

Patience Not = Result

2011-01-12T18:54:00.005+11:00

Hooked on prawning lately (haha pun). Went slightly earlier last night because there's a prawning challenge every Tuesday and Thursday from 7pm-12am. Essentially, if you catch a prawn that's red-taped at its tail for example, you're entitled to a 15 dollars voucher, which is a one hour extension. And the top prize is a black-taped prawn or 30 dollars voucher/3 hrs extension.

Then again, there're only 3 black-taped prawns in the 3 ponds, so chances are quite slim. But guess what, I actually caught one! Didn't realise it until Alvin exclaimed quite excitedly, 'cause I was stoning and when there was a bite I was just like..yay ok, caught another one. Oh well, lucky prawning night. And Marc caught about 4 prawns with his bare hands. Next time, I'm not renting the rod.

The Bintan trip is going as planned, thank goodness. I'm leaving tomorrow morning and coming back on Friday night. Just a short kelong stay and I'm sure it will be fun, especially with the bros. Choosing to put aside some issues, go for the trip and just..chill. Some things can come later I guess.

Going back to NYP next Tuesday to give a talk to the juniors with regards to studying in Australia. I think I'm gonna tell them that Australia is all about play and no work. Have all the fun they want and well, if they've got time to spare, study.

2011-01-11T02:41:00.001+11:00

People, they're from the outside looking in. And they don't actually live the story itself. Essentially, what they think is true might not be after all. They think that it is A, but I beg to differ and think that it is B instead.

MBS

2011-01-10T23:49:00.006+11:00

And so I was spoilt by my aunt with a night's stay at Marina Bay Sands.

Much thanks to her and my parents.

Also, this is going out to the wonderful company who made it all happen.

Char, who accompanied me for the whole day despite not being able to swim. Nonetheless, it was fun walking around and all. Appreciate it. :)

Zixuan & Jessica, Junwei & Xiao Ling, Marcus & Peiting, Alvin, for one helluva crazy night.

Pictures to show...

Didn't take a picture of the infinity pool but it's certainly a nice and relaxing place to chill. Minus the crowd, that is.

Met Marcus for the first time last night since he returned from Sweden. And he bought me a Man Utd scarf during his trip to Old Trafford. Thanks bro!

Ipod speaker from Uncle Tim, which was supposedly for me to use during my stay at MBS but I didn't receive it in time.

Prawning again tomorrow night! And hopefully, Marc's passport issue can be settled by tomorrow as well.

When The Clock Strikes 12

2010-12-31T23:48:00.005+11:00

Well, it's just another day isn't it?

Granted, it's a brand new start, a whole new beginning. It is after all, a transition into a new year.

But in my opinion, perhaps countdown parties are overrated. Unless of course you have a really good reason to celebrate. Do you?

In retrospect, have you achieved everything that you've set yourself to do at this very same time a year ago (i.e. new year's resolutions that nobody ever keeps to)? In all aspects of your life, are they even near complete? Or maybe it's not necessarily that you must achieve something to celebrate, is there something which happened this year that made you really happy? I see people celebrating for the sake of celebrating, just because everybody celebrates in unison during festive periods, it kinda defeats the purpose of it all. On the contrary, if you have good reasons to celebrate, by all means go ahead. Just know what you're celebrating.

Don't get me wrong, I love to share good times with close friends too, but not with crowds.

People will always come and go in your life. That's what they always say anyway. To me, there are 4 types of people.

1) those who should and will always be around your entire life.

2) those who would just make an appearance and leave.

3) those who shouldn't even appear.

4) those who appear for a reason.

And I know very clearly who belongs where for the people who have appeared in my life.

2010..well, what can I say?

It's definitely better than 2009 of course, which was a pretty bad year for me. Then again, I felt that life only truly started for me in June 2010. After you leave the army, only then would you realise and reflect on what the hell have you been doing (or not doing) for the past 2 years. Being in that regimental lifestyle, you're completely devoid of life. No matter how positive thinking you may be, that's the way it is when you're in that environment. And suddenly the world opens up after you ORD.

Then came Melbourne, a big transition in my life as well. And the world opens up even more. It's an ongoing experience and so far it's been good. Getting pretty much used to life there and you meet people whom you know you'd cherish for a long time.

Nobody knows what 2011 will hold in store. But sometimes you have just got to make the most out of the moments that come. That is probably something I'll have to learn as well.

And when the clock strikes 12 tonight, you'll be a second to none.

Almost 11

2010-12-23T04:11:00.005+11:00

Finally met up with Zixuan today after like what, almost a month since I've been back. The dude was busy with exams and all and as always when exams come he'll hermit himself. So, I haven't had a chance to meet up with him until today. Well, considering the fact that Alvin, Junwei and I have been meeting up so often.

And we were just randomly talking about recent happenings in our lives and I commented that it is actually very easy to read me, or the things I do. To that he said, "That's because we know you what."

Haha, nice one there bro. Makes me feel that the brotherhood bond that the 5 of us share is really something irreplaceable. Can't wait for Marcus to be back from Sweden before we go for our short trip on 13th Jan tentatively.

I am feeling very fidgety tonight, probably more than just a tad restless. No particular reason for it but I think I might just know why.

0 Miles From Home

2010-12-10T00:57:00.002+11:00

Just a note that I'm back, since last tuesday in fact.

Have been going out almost every day (and night) that I think I'm getting exhausted and falling sick. Then again I can always attribute it to the climate here, haha.

Took a day's rest today and I suppose I haven't slept so much in a very long time. Feels good in a sense, especially when you're not feeling well. Medication made me drowsy too, although I'm pretty sure it's non-drowsy medication that I took. Oh, and it's interesting how in that drowsy state of mind I can subconsciously control my dreams, considering how I'm one who doesn't remember dreams. So yea, I was actually manipulating my dreams to a certain extent this afternoon. Hard to explain so I'll just leave it as that.

It's funny how my friends and I miss Melbourne when we're back.

It's like our second home already.

And So It Is...

2010-11-27T01:05:00.006+11:00

Have you ever heard of the hypothetical theory of the parallel universe?

It is in fact effected by the frequently asked question in life, "What if...?"

"What if we had made a different decision then?"

"What if we had taken a different route?"

What if, what if, what if...

How would our lives be different?

The question is, are there replicas of ourselves right now at this very moment living in parallel universes, due to the different decisions we might have made and the different routes we might have taken?

A friend once told me, there are a near 7 billion people in the world. How 2 people can meet, be friends, fall in love, share a life together, that in itself is quite amazing and magical altogether. Don't you think so?

Perhaps I do.

At the crossroads of our lives, we're only eligible to take one path and never look back. But often we do and we regret our decisions. I'd say don't. Pointless, really. It's not like you can change anything anyway. You've got to believe in this path that you've chosen for yourself and keep fighting for the things you want.

I've come across many crossroads in my life thus far, the latest being the choice of studying locally at NTU or overseas at UniMelb. Having made my choice, I believe that everything happens for a reason. And the people you meet at different points in your life are meant to be there for a reason, to shape your life to a certain extent.

In retrospect, I've made friends whom I'd cherish all my life. Friends who really mean a lot to me. They're like stars in my night sky of life, including my family as well of course. And maybe once in a while, just maybe, you'll chance upon a glowing star.

Embrace the moment,

even if it's just for a moment.

2010-11-20T15:42:00.002+11:00

A philosopher once asked, "Are we human because we gaze at the stars, or do we gaze at them because we are human?" Pointless, really. "Do the stars gaze back?" Now that's a question.

Great Ocean Road

2010-11-20T04:01:00.004+11:00

A group shot at the 12 Apostles to mark our very first road trip!

Disclaimer for Char: She is not that short. Hahaha!

HAHA

2010-11-16T22:19:00.004+11:00

Matt Cardle

2010-11-07T23:25:00.002+11:00

Singing sensations are so awe-inspiring, to say the least.

p.s. Cheryl Cole (Tweedy) is damn hot!

All Done

2010-11-07T19:33:00.002+11:00

Finally I'm done with all my essays and articles! And there's just one exam to go.

Intercultural Communication.

Multiple Choice Questions.

30% of final grade.

26th Nov.

The very last day of exam period.

'nuff said.

Feeling slightly more relaxed now, before I have to start studying for the exam. Gonna give myself a short break, I guess?

And this is what happens when I get too relaxed and start to disturb people.

Till next time.

The History Of Love

2010-11-05T20:54:00.005+11:00

One day, I'll write a novel. :)

To Do List Update 2

2010-11-04T18:04:00.003+11:00

~~3 Final Essays.~~

~~3 CultureBlog Entries.~~

1 Portfolio (3 more articles).

1 Exam.

3 more articles to write; a book review, a press release and a travel article.

All to be done by Sunday.

Well, it should be relatively easier to write compared to academic essays. But I've always been a perfectionist in my writings, spending time editing, re-editing again until I'm happy with what I write. Hopefully I don't spend too long on the articles, I haven't got much time anyway.

So here goes..

Brooklyn Bridge By Jess

2010-10-30T13:26:00.002+11:00

I love this picture taken/edited by sis-in-law (bro's gf, haha). And in fact all the other pictures she has on her photo blog (www.jessthewayiloveit.blogspot.com). Jess, if you're reading this, I really think you're pretty good for someone who has just started on photography. Keep it up! I'm a fan. :)

Semester 1, Sophomore Year

2010-10-29T01:16:00.004+11:00

What I'll be taking next semester.

Media & Communications

Net Communications

Writing Journalism

Sociology

Critical Analytical Skills

Sexual Politics

2410

2010-10-24T01:15:00.004+11:00

It's been exactly a year, and I realized how far apart we've grown. Perhaps I could talk to you and ask you how you've been doing, and I really wish I could, out of genuine concern. But sometimes it just occurs to me that we're strangers now. You don't know me anymore, much less want to. It's okay that we've both moved on. I know that everything is different now, I've been staying strong.

To Do List Update

2010-10-23T17:29:00.005+11:00

2 3 Final Essays.
1 3 CultureBlog Entries.
1 Portfolio (3 more articles).
1 Exam.

I realised my entry updates are all about my schoolwork. Oh well, can't help it when it's a busy period at the end of the semester. So, bear with me. :)

A Roundup

2010-10-18T20:20:00.003+11:00

Time to get things done.

3 Final Essays.

3 CultureBlog Entries.

1 Portfolio (3 more articles).

1 Exam.

The Pencil & The Eraser

2010-10-15T04:35:00.003+11:00

Pencil: I'm sorry.

Eraser: For what? You didn't do anything wrong.

Pencil: I'm sorry that you get hurt because of me. Whenever I make a mistake, you're always there to erase it. But as you make my mistakes vanish, you lose a part of yourself. You get smaller and smaller each time.

Eraser: That's true. But I don't really mind. You see, I was made to do this. I was made to help you whenever you do something wrong. Even though one day, I know I'll be gone and you'll replace me with a new one, I'm actually happy with what I've done for you. So please, stop worrying. I hate seeing you sad.

C'est La Vie

2010-10-07T14:24:00.004+11:00

Y'know.. if I ran a school, much on the contrary of what the current system is, I'd give the average grades to the ones who gave me all the right answers, for being good parrots. And I'd give the top grades to those who made a lot of mistakes and told me about them, and then told me what they learned from them.

Life, it's more than just academics.

Plus 3

2010-10-02T18:47:00.003+10:00

As of 3rd October 2010, Melbourne will be 3 hours ahead of Singapore due to daylight saving time. This will revert back to 2 hours on 3rd April 2011 (hoho, special day!).

I wanted to write about something thought-provoking, but I've lost the idea now. Talk about writer's block. Maybe my mind really does only work best in the wee hours of the morning.

Till next time.

The Truth Is

2010-09-27T01:27:00.004+10:00

sometimes blurriness and surreality are just separated by a fine line.

Spring Break

2010-09-20T14:56:00.002+10:00

So, today marks the start of the 2 weeks mid semester break.

One major assignment to complete, due on Friday.

Glad to have friends to talk to to put you back in your tracks, when things go haywire and you start to lose yourself in a sense.

But this is me, this is who I am. Before anything (or anybody) can get me down, I'm not going to let myself down.

4 days to deadline, head in assignment.

Will be back next week.

Till then.

Adios!

When You Really Have Nothing Better To Do

2010-09-15T20:12:00.005+10:00

can only be done once though.

Once Upon A Time

2010-09-11T16:30:00.005+10:00

cue background music: Tennessee - Hans Zimmer (Pearl Harbor OST)

Strange how a picture paints a thousand words, and tells a story in itself.

Nobody likes goodbyes, but maybe sometimes..

'Thank you' are words sadder than 'Goodbye'.

I'm Sorry, But You've Exceeded Your Limit

2010-09-07T13:06:00.005+10:00

You know how at airport departures there's always a baggage weight limit? But they never ever tell you the limit to your emotional baggage. The truth is, it has no limits. How much you carry with you, whether you carry heavy or you carry light, it's absolutely up to you.

Unknowingly, it gets heavier. On the contrary, it might also get lighter. But you must learn how not to let it weigh you down through each and every passing day.

And if possible, release it. Start a new life with an empty baggage. And hopefully it never gets filled up.

Viva La Vida.

Live Life.

Busy Week 5

2010-08-22T21:27:00.002+10:00

It's going to be a busy and stressful Week 5 ahead. 3 major assignments due on Week 6; the halfway point of the semester.

So, I shall disappear for now.

Till next time.

*POOF*

Many Stones' Throw Away

2010-08-15T22:27:00.004+10:00

Chadstone Shopping Mall with Joyce today. It's quite a walk from Hughesdale Train Station. But well, first time taking train here in Melbourne. Nice scenery along the way though. And the suburbs are really quite different from the city. Quiet and peaceful but nothing much to see or do. I guess that's pretty much an understatement, huh?

The Interior of the Mall.

We saw kissing (dead) fishes.

And the discovery of Tau Huay!

Just another Lemon Tree.

Pretty House!

Mario Costumes! Wonder who buys them.

Till next time.

1408

2010-08-14T00:24:00.003+10:00

Today, marks my first month in Melbourne.

Today, is the start of the inaugural Youth Olympic Games in Singapore.

Today, the new Barclays Premier League season kicks off.

Today, is Zixuan and Jessica's first year anniversary.

Today, in retrospect.

Busy Busy

2010-08-09T23:28:00.006+10:00

Well, I haven't got much time to blog as I'm busy with readings and writings.

Anyhow, Happy National Day Singapore!

It feels really different watching the NDP from overseas. Gotta love the short segment on Singaporeans who gave their blessings from overseas.

Will update again in due time.

CultureBlogging

2010-08-02T20:31:00.006+10:00

One of my assignments for Culture, Media and Everyday Life is to blog conscientiously on relevant topics in the school's blogging system throughout the whole semester.

I guess blogging has never been more stressful huh? But it's fun nonetheless.

So, we had a lecture this afternoon on what we are supposed to do and all. And nearing the end of the lecture at 4:04pm, Dr. Fran Martin logged in to show us the blogging system. The homepage showed a list of the latest blogs that were updated and their blog entry titles.

Right at the very top was this entry titled, '3:56pm on a lazy monday afternoon.' by XXX.

Someone in the lecture obviously seems to have a pretty good sense of humour. =D

Green, White, Red & The Golden Eagle

2010-07-31T20:13:00.014+10:00

So, my Mexican roommate finally moved in on Thursday. His name is Noe (No-ay), I was half expecting a Javier Hernandez, Giovani dos Santos or Rafael Marquez or something. And no, no curly moustache, sombrero, colourful clothes or guitar. He's 32, and taking his Phd at a Medical Institute just behind The Royal Melbourne Hospital and he'll be in Melbourne for a year.

He's a pretty nice guy, very friendly and all. He can't speak English very well though, but still comprehensible in our communication. And every time he has difficulty finding the correct English word, he'll add in a sound effect 'te-de-de' prior to saying the word out. On Thursday after he moved in and settled down, he took out a picture of his girlfriend and showed it to me.

Noe: Hey Andy, do you have a girlfriend? This is my girlfriend.

Me: Oh, she's very pretty. Is she in Mexico?

Noe: Ya, she's working in another state in Mexico.

-after a brief pause-

Noe: She's waiting for me. (followed by a smile)

Me: Aww, so nice and sweet!

Noe: I hope you get one too, erm.. next week. (laughs)

Noe loves eating and food a lot. He went out today and came back filling up the whole of our refrigerator with food. And he offered me eggs, bread and all. He cooked steak just now and asked if I would like to try some. The steak that he made looked absolutely good and smelled just as great. I guess I could pick up some culinary skills from him in future. And I'm kind of suspecting Noe wants to make us some breakfast tomorrow morning because he was asking what time I'll be waking up.

On a side note, I offered him my extra blanket seeing how inadequate he was when he moved in. No pillows no blankets. You just can't help but to feel a sense of benevolence, especially when the person involved is your roommate and a friend. He was very thankful, laughing at how cold it is at night.

So anyway, Noe's steak inspired me to finally cook my own pasta. Yes, finally because Joyce and Charmaine both do not believe that I'll be cooking my pasta that's lying in my refrigerator anytime soon. Here's a picture.

Fusilli Carbonara with Chicken, Crabstick & Fish Tofu.

Proudly Presented by Chef Andy. :)

Noe and I had a nice chat over dinner. We talked about Singapore, Mexico, our countries' climate and food, soccer, gym, conscription in Singapore (he was so fascinated and to quote him, "In Mexico, you can say No, Thank You".), what we are studying, Asians he met, Asians in Melbourne, languages I speak, Spanish (he says that my basic Spanish is pretty good, and I would improve in the next few months with his guidance), etc.

Very nice light-hearted chat. And at the end of it he said, "Oh, I'm getting hungry again." Then he started bursting out in laughter.

Well I guess I'm quite glad that I can get along well with Noe. And we're both food lovers. That's a plus point, I suppose?

Till next time.

EDIT:

There's really breakfast this morning! Thank you Noe! Hahaha.

What Is The Everyday?

2010-07-28T20:44:00.003+10:00

Paradox 1:

"The everyday immerses us completely, yet it's hard to grasp as an object of study."

Paradox 2:

"The everyday is excessively familiar, yet difficult to define precisely."

How do everyday practices, beliefs and ideas come to appear to us as 'natural' and unremarkable?

Through processes of socialization and acculturation, through which we are taught that certain behaviours and beliefs are 'normal' or 'true'.

Denaturalize yourself.

Sunny Sunday

2010-07-25T21:07:00.010+10:00

The sun was out today, and I probably perspired for the first time since arriving in Melbourne because I was kind of rushing out of the house. Still, it's only 12 degrees odd when it's sunny. Loving it!

Went out with Charmaine to Melbourne Central to shop, well, window shop in my case. Apparently AX was having a sale. But somehow the collection here did not entice me as much as the ones back home in Singapore. And Charmaine felt bad about spending money after buying 3 t-shirts and a necklace, then the guilt lessened after learning that I had spent on a Fossil watch here.

Headed over to Collins Street after to have a look at the LVs, Guccis, Pradas and whatnot. Nice architecture they have on Collins Street, very different from Bourke Street, the shopping district, although they are only a street apart.

Met up with Yanting for dinner. It's been quite a while since I last saw her, perhaps half a year ago? We had Japanese food! She recommended the Gyu Tan Don, which is in fact Ox Tongue on rice. I was a bit apprehensive about it but it turned out great! Tasted like beef but with a different texture. And we had dessert at this Taiwan dessert place. I'll let the pictures speak for themselves.

Ox Tongue!

Gyoza.

Honey Peach Snow Ice with Pearls.

And we're going to watch Inception this friday or so. Finally! The much talked about show.

Till next time.

Mee-Dee-Uh

2010-07-23T17:34:00.010+10:00

What I'll be studying this semester.

Introduction to Media and Communications

Professional Writing

Culture, Media and Everyday Life

Intercultural Communication

I'm kind of glad that even though I don't have a choice to choose my modules this semester, the last two relates to Sociology, so when I take up Sociology as a second major next semester, I'm more prepared in a sense.

And the semester starts on Monday.

Full steam ahead!

Me@lbourne!

2010-07-21T00:12:00.024+10:00

Well, I'm finally settled into my apartment. So I now have some time on my hands for a little update on the beginning of my life here in Melbourne.

First and foremost, and the most unfortunate thing ever. Clarence, my roommate, was diagnosed with Hepatitis A roughly a couple of days before our departure. As a result, he could not make the flight and had to defer to next semester. However, there are currently some issues with the deferment as well because the Bachelor of Arts (Media & Communications) degree that we're taking is having its last intake in 2010. So, Clarence is awaiting a new offer letter which might not be the same degree ultimately and in the worst case scenario, he may head over to ANU in Canberra instead. Of course, I would prefer him to come to UniMelb next semester be it for the same degree or a different one so that we can share the apartment as planned. But then again, I too understand that no matter what happens, it's all up to him now. So I can only hope for the best, for him and for the both of us. In any case, I'm going to have a Mexican roommate who's due to move in on Saturday. And I was making a light-hearted stereotypical joke about how he definitely has a curly moustache, and how he will be wearing a sombrero and colourful clothes and playing his guitar all the time. Let's hope we can get along well.

That aside, it's been a rather busy week so far, settling my accommodation, bank account, internet and mobile lines, getting orientated, etc. And when everything was more or less done, there was the Academic Advice Day which took place yesterday and it was just completely confusing and stressful to say the least. As typical Singaporeans, we want to get things done as soon as possible, so we expect all the administrative matters to be settled in a day, which was not the case at all. It took us quite a fair bit of running around, asking for help, that sort of thing. Even so, we could not complete everything as there were still doubts and technical glitches which prevented us from doing so. Hence, we went back to clarify and to 'settle' all our issues again today, yes the whole group of us Singaporean students; the new friends that I made, I can safely say that we were in full attendance at the University on a day where there were no official activities planned for us.

And Orientation starts tomorrow!

But for now, some pictures to show.

The University of Melbourne. Dream Large.

The Old Arts Building! Pseudo Hogwarts, haha!

My Cosy Little Crib.

Clothes, Shoes and all.

The Kitchen!

And the Bathroom!

With a bathtub!

And I have a balcony too!

It's rebuilt from the Old Melbourne Hotel so the room does look just like a hotel room isn't it?

I guess it's pretty amazing that someone like me who has such bad directional sense (those who know me well enough would know) is now fending for himself in a big foreign city. Sometimes I do take a step back and wonder where in the world did I get the courage from. Perhaps the tremendous emotional and financial support which I received from my family and the never-ending encouragement from my friends had played a big part. Or maybe it's just something as simple as me having a point to prove to myself.

Nonetheless, it's going to be great starting a new life here. I can feel it already.

Till next time.

p.s. It's freezing now at 7 degrees.

Viva España!

2010-07-13T00:08:00.028+10:00

Shame on you, Netherlands!

Shame on you, your rough play and dirty tactics.

Shame on you Mark Van Bommel and shame on you Arjen Robben.

While it may be true that a couple of decisions went Spain's way unfairly, for a team that had almost every single player yellow-carded (that was some record, mind you), you don't deserve to speak. If there were to be less leniency shown by Howard Webb the referee, you would have more than just one player sent off. So shut up with your absurd comments, Arjen Robben. If Carles Puyol should get the red card, Mark Van Bommel would have showered, reached back to his hotel room and fallen asleep, all before the end of the first half.

You're truly and utterly disgraceful for a nation playing in a World Cup Final.

A kung-fu kick in the chest?! You're lucky you got away with it.

And quit whining like a pussy (are you even allowed to do that to the referee in the first place?!), even England didn't complain so much when they were denied a clear goal. And the replay clearly showed that the Spanish goal was not offside and totally legitimate, I seriously have no idea what The Netherlands was so unhappy about. Yes Dutch fans, there WAS a replay. What's this about having no replay when billions around the world actually saw it?

There you have it. ONSIDE. This was shown right after the goal was scored. Sorry Netherlands, nobody appreciates you guys being sore losers when you shamelessly confronted the referee at the final whistle. You're digusting. Not the mention the looks of dissatisfaction when you had to shake the hands of the Spaniards, unwillingly that is. I've lost all respect for you, what that's left of it anyway. You need a lesson in graciousness, make that ten.

Finally, the worthier team lifts the World Cup! This is justice prevailing over evil for you.

Official FIFA statistics have proven that The Netherlands is the dirtiest team in the World Cup this year, with the most number of yellow cards and the most number of fouls (126). Uruguay is not even at a close second with 99. And if you say that they played all 7 matches to arrive at this statistic while other teams played lesser as they were eliminated earlier, then let's compare them to the Spaniards who played 7 matches in total as well. Spain received the FIFA Fair Play Award for the least number of fouls committed and the least number of yellow cards received. A gentlemanly team indeed.

Dutch legend Johan Cruyff has also heavily criticized the Dutch team for playing ugly, vulgar, hardly eye-catching anti-football and felt that The Netherlands should have been down to 9 men. Now that says a lot coming from the former Dutch captain himself.

At the end of the day, I'm happy that my favourite team won.

Viva España!

There's Nothing Like Australia

2010-07-03T17:20:00.005+10:00

A new ad campaign launched by Tourism Australia in May this year.

Some say it's a rip-off of Discovery Channel's 'I Love The World'.

What do you think?

Pre-Departure Jitters

2010-07-01T13:24:00.005+10:00

So, I've more or less settled everything that needs to be settled and I'm just waiting to fly. Now I'm left with packing my room and my luggage, which I haven't really gotten down to actually doing it. Such a procrastinator when it comes to packing. And somehow we're all experiencing this strange situation where we're eager to start a new lease of life in Melbourne, at the same time we're sad to leave our friends and family behind. On the other hand, we're just a tad apprehensive about the uncertainties we might face there. Okay, maybe it's a pretty normal situation after all, but it hits you hard nearing the date of departure.

In any case, I've met up with Clarence's friends for dinner the other day; Kenneth and Geraldine who are also heading over to Melbourne. Just learned of it not too long ago and they're great company to have. And I have mutual friends with both Kenneth and Geraldine, how small this world is. I guess it certainly helps having friends whom you actually know beforehand going over with you. Clarence and I are sure going to have quite an experience living with each other.

Agenda for Pre-Departure:

- Buy stationery.

- Set up iMac for Mom.

- Apply Exit Permit.

- Read up more on my intended subject combinations and orientation package.

- Plan timetable.

- Farewell Lunches/Dinners.

- Pack! (oh the horrors)

Post-Arrival:

- Set up bank account.

- Hunt for the best internet service provider & telco.

- Buy daily necessities.

- Set up apartment.

- City orientation.

- Ask for more credit exemptions at Academic Advice Day!

- UniMelb orientation.

- Meet up with Melbourne friends;

Job Hunting - Siokhui

UniMelb - Lynette

Monash - Lucien, Yu Mou, Yanting & Jessica

RMIT - Dale & Blessann

Wow. Now that's a hell lot of things to do.

Till next time.