Pitch Dark

2012

2012-01-05T11:43:00.003+08:00

"Life's too short, gotta live it long..." - Young Homie, Chris Rene.

Clock struck midnight, fireworks shot to the sky, wishes swam in the sea of people.

There is something about the new year that, to me, is worth celebrating. Whether it is the ushering in of the new year or the exiting of the old, i enjoy new year countdowns. Sometimes, it feels rather nostalgic reflecting on all the wonderful moments the year had been. There are ups and downs in life but we learn on those down moments and pick ourselves up. Sometimes, it's exciting to imagine what the new year will bring.

At the rooftop of my house, a few friends and family of mine gathered, patiently waiting for the thundering sounds of fireworks to welcome the year. We wanted to initiate a countdown but the time on each of our watches were not the same. So we waited for the fireworks, assuming their time was right. One by one, the night sky was lit.

The new year. 2012. Begins.

Time to refresh and update resolutions. The year i turn legal age to enter the casino. The next phase of my study life experience. Try extreme sports. The list goes on and on.

Lately, i watched the reruns of True Beauty: Face of Vegas. Initially, i did not like the reality show. But as i watched, i found the show good not only for the contestants but the viewers as well. Trust me, everyone judges everyone some point, some time in their lives- may be everyday. And watching the show, nowadays, i felt like i was in the competition and someone was watching me, judging me. In the show, try putting yourself in the shoes of the contestants and see what you would do. Be honest. See yourself, measure yourself. I did, and frankly, i'd be embarrassed of myself at some of its challenges. Though i know i am not in any reality show at the moment, something inside reminds me to help others, show compassion and empathy, and be kind to the people around you. It doesn't hurt to be nice to people. It costs you nothing but it means the world to those you help, whatever size your help may be.

This goes on my resolution list- not for the sake of winning the competition but in becoming a better, more beautiful person. As the host of the show said, 'true beauty comes from within'. I may be one individual, but if that one individual becomes everybody, the world will be a safer, kindlier and peaceful place to live for all of us.

Let this year start the change in you if you have not been.

Two-zero-one-two. wc12.

Zoo time

2011-12-29T21:54:00.005+08:00

"We have to get to know each other better...

... it makes us understand one another better,

trust each other more, and live together more peacefully." - United Buddy Bears

The year end is approaching. The new year is coming. Whichever way you see it, the end of a long year or a new beginning, life is here for us to continue enriching ourselves with experiences.

It had been on my resolution list for a long time, the bullet point flickering like a neon light, calling me to strike it out. I could blame it on the bad timing for the delay. Study. Not being here. I tried to accomplish it last year but after a day's effort, i fell sick the next day and i couldn't risk my health and my travel to Singapore. So i decided to postpone, or procrastinate, until this year, until this month.

Now, i can happily tick over that flickering bullet point. And feel a great sense of satisfaction.

I am referring to my volunteering experience at Zoo Negara. I knew about this volunteer program when i was in secondary school. I knew about the certificate awarded to volunteers after accomplishing time at the zoo. I made this my goal- the certificate, but i received more than that.

Becoming a volunteer in the Zoo opened my eyes and broadened my perspectives. I got to see the Zoo from an entirely different angle. As a full-day volunteer, i had to assemble at a meeting point after checking in. The officer in charge came to brief on rules while volunteering and gave a sticker to stick on my sleeves. I would be assigned to keepers who needed volunteers for the day. In my entire service, i did the Mammal Kingdom twice, Reptile, Bear enclosure, and Ape Center once (and still counting...). Along the way, i got to meet great people- friendly keepers who willing pass knowledge they possess about the animals under their care and other enthusiastic volunteers.

When i was there, i got asked a question numerous times: you're on holiday/study break, why do you want to come here and volunteer? The answer came easy: i like seeing the zoo from another view and enjoy the company of being close to wildlife. A practical student in the Zoo told me that other volunteers thought becoming a volunteer allowed them to touch wild animals. Part of me was with the majority. Not until some hard and rough work, i was then awarded the chance.

As a volunteer, through my experience, i had to sweep the exhibit of the animals- dried leaves, leftover food and poop. I had boots but the boots did not stop the odour from rising to my nose. Some can be really unpleasant. Then, in another exhibit, i had to wipe glass panels. I had to prepare meals for the animals like slicing bananas and cutting carrots to bite-sized pieces. I had to carry logs- and i can tell you now it is massively heavy, to help redesign exhibit or just transferring.

On the bright side, i got to feed the animals- and that is not one can do on a visit to the Zoo. I fed the porcupines, capybaras, hyenas, squirrel monkey, raccoon, otters, tortoise, deer and bear. I got to stand so close to a tiger, goats, iguanas, orangutan and chimpanzee- desire fueled by the Apes movie. I got the chance to touch a snake, a black bear (named Boy) and a tapir. These memories with the wildlife are forever remembered.

Feeding the capybara, biggest rodent, and...

...porcupines with their favourite- bananas...

...playing with Kathy, a young orangutan...

... entered an enclosure to feed the iguanas...

... patting after cleaning the tortoise, second largest in the world, enclosure...

...snapped a shot with a tapir.

As i said, i got the certificate, i struck the bullet point. But i achieved more than that. I realized that i enjoyed my time in the Zoo despite sweat and bruises. I like animals. Perhaps, one day in the future, i might adopt an exotic animal or set up my own zoo or animal center. I used to think zoos are sad places for the animals, limiting their freedom, inhibiting their growth and potential, but i saw that with caring and loving keepers, the zoo might, after all, be a suitable place for them. Nurture the community, let them know that animals are part of the inhabitants of earth. Take a day off to any zoo, tell them about the fauna and teach them to protect and conserve these uniqueness in life.

Will i be back at the Zoo? Count me in!

*****

On another note, the United Buddy Bears are now at Pavilion, KL until 15 Feb 2012. It is the first time a South-east Asia city become host. Visit to see the colourful Buddy Bears of 147 countries.

Taken with the Malaysian Bear.

Merry X'mas !!!!!

2011-12-17T13:05:00.001+08:00

"Ho ho ho..."

The fifth installment of the X'mas series!

It's the time of the year again. Christmas. And like in the previous installments, i made an effort to take photos of Christmas decoration wherever i went; so this year's, i am grateful to have the chance to experience pre-Christmas mood in Taiwan, amongst other places, to be included and shared here.

Christmas decoration in Pavilion, KL was up early- I was there end of November. I like the candies and there was a carousel at the centre of it all!

With tree in Gardens, Mid Valley, KL.

Simple decoration at Jusco Wangsa Maju.

Greeting our arrival at Taiwan's Chairman Hotel.

Santa Claus welcoming visitors to a rest house in Taiwan.

At a restaurant entrance in Fisherman's Wharf.

Quietly and quickly took a photo at McDonalds in Taipei- why can't McD in Malaysia put up decorations as nice as this?

Standing in front of a tall Christmas tree at the entrance of Taipei 101 mall area.

Saying goodbye from the Taiwan's Taoyuan Airport.

Centre of attention at the lobby of Swiss Inn Sg Petani, Kedah.

Awesome decoration in KLCC. I was lucky to catch a caroling performance when i was there and they were good.

Tropicana City Mall.

I was at the Metro Tabernacle to catch a Christmas Musical- invited by my cousin who was part of the crew, entitled 'Two From Galilee'. The musical was amazing- i especially liked the score.

Fairies at Great Eastern Mall.

Newly opened KL Festival City impresses with Christmas tree and reindeer.

On the telly, I watched 'Dear Santa' on DIVA channel, a new Christmas movie, and if you have the chance, watch it. I was smiling by the end of the movie- in fact, almost all Christmas movies made me ache then smile.

Wishing you a Merry Christmas!

When do we learn to share? Or we don't.

2011-11-16T11:48:00.002+08:00

"Thousands of candles can be lit from a single candle, and the life of the candle will not be shortened."

I was at Pavilion, KL last night and i witnessed an incident which i am now inclined to highlight. It is a thought which i have long had but never wanted to write until what unfolded before my very eyes urged me to blog about it. The question is 'When do we learn to share?'. Or we don't.

I believe in life when we first open our eyes and enter this world, we start to share. We may not realize then but we share the air we breathe, the love amongst our family and the space in their home to accommodate us. Some of us share bed with our parents or our siblings, or share bedrooms. Then we share toilet, computer, television, calculators, food and may be even clothes. While we usually thought of something concrete to share like objects, we sometimes share laughter, joy and happiness and sometimes we share pain and sorrow of others. We may even share secret.

So when do we learn to share? When we are babies? And who taught us to share?

It is not easy to learn to share. I remember when i was a kid, some toys are exclusively mine. No one other than me is allowed to play them. But i was not a single child and i had to share. One of the ways we do is to take turns. I would first play as my brothers or sister watch me, and i would respect them likewise when my turn is over. Another way is to play together. Thankfully some games come in multiplayer mode.

In a crowd last night, i noticed a Middle Eastern girl watching a Chinese kid playing with his balloon. She was tempted to have one. She looked to him then to her parents who did not acknowledge her desire to have one. Kids do what kids do, and she approached the Chinese boy. The boy, surprised to see a girl coming towards him and tried to touch the balloon in his hand, he lifted it up high. The girl stood, watching him. Ignoring her presence, he played with the balloon by throwing it up in the air and letting it slowly descend to the ground, where he would then catch it. The girl followed him and tried to catch the balloon too. The boy caught it and hid it behind him so the girl could not touch it. She was adamant to have the balloon and the boy ran to his mother.

There were two more balloons with the boy's mother and seeing her wanting the balloon, the mother offered one to the girl. The girl happily accepted the balloon and returned to her mother and then both the kids played the balloon.

Perhaps, we learn to share from our parents. In this situation, why didn't the boy share the balloon with her, knowing he has two more with his mother? Probably, he might not yet know of the concept of sharing, or may be she was stranger to him. Either way, his mother showed him through her actions.

The concept of sharing, in my opinion, involves a great deal of give-and-take, tolerance and cooperation. The boy could throw tantrums seeing his mother giving the balloon away, but he didn't. Likewise with me and my siblings.

Learning how to share does not happen overnight.

In the crowd too, everyone was watching a band playing and a tourist danced in rhythm to the music in front of the crowd. It took sportsmanship, showmanship and even courage to do so, and i could not help to wonder if a Malaysian would do what he did. As i have said, we don't only share objects or things, but sometimes something more abstract. It might be in his culture to be daring enough to dance in front of the crowd alone. So it occurred to me then, that we can share culture too, if we want to.

I have learned that cultures are shared. We should realize that sharing can be transmitted by observing, listening, talking and interacting with other people. And when we are born, we share the cultures of our people too, and meeting others, we may share their positive traits that may eventually enrich our lives.

So again, when do we learn to share then and when do we share?

I believe the answer vary from people to people, but i can say that mostly it begins from birth. Parents of today were children of yesterday, and because of that, they share with us what they know about the world we live in and we continue to keep to that tradition, sharing then what we know later to our children.

What say you?

Deepavali 2011

2011-10-29T16:50:00.003+08:00

" Let this diwali burn all your bad times and enter you in good times. " - Deepavali wishes

The Deepavali celebration had been recent and i'm not lying- i miss the muruku already! I visited my uncle's house this year whose wife makes fantastic prawn rendang. One of the best in the world! And to top that, mutton for the gluttony pleasure. I also visited my friend's house for dinner. This celebration- yes, i somehow celebrate it too since i am a Malaysian, is not all about food. There is the house visiting. The reunion. The decoration. There are many more factors that sum up the true meaning of this Festival of Lights.

I wanted to post this before the celebration but it got delayed.

When any festive celebration is around the corner, i enjoy chasing to see the decorations especially in malls.

Taken at Sunway Pyramid which used flowers for their decoration.

Jusco Wangsa Maju boasts with this beautiful kolam.

In KLCC...

...with simple yet colourful kolam.

This modern kolam at Concorde Hotel proves to fuse the traditional kolam for the peacock's tail and a 3D body of the peacock.

Once again, wc11 wishes Happy Deepavali to all!

The Pact

2011-10-19T23:03:00.003+08:00

" Truth, you see, is in the eye of the beholder. " - The Pact

So my holidays have begun. Sarawak. Westlife. Friends reunion. Blog. What next? I always face this problem- before the holidays come, i'll have all sorts of ideas, or plans, in mind. Probably i should write it down next time because the list mysteriously disappears. To tell you the truth, somehow, i feel like i'm experiencing a 'mid-life crisis' now, at such an early age! Probably it's not. But whenever i open my Facebook page, i see my friends busy, doing something, filling their time with events. Then i look at myself. What am i really doing? One month down, three months to go.

There is still time, i always say. And i believe i'll be stepping up my game, and i'm going to do great things. How? Only time will tell.

I just completed my fourth book by Jodi Picoult, entitled The Pact (after Change of Hearts, Handle With Care and Picture Perfect). I was disappointed with Picture Perfect because of many reasons. The characters are not like-able and boring. The story progresses slowly and the ending is predictable. However, it made me take up an Anthropology course in my uni- so you can say that's a plus point of the book.

In The Pact, i was blown away. This is the real Jodi Picoult book that i fell in love when i first read her book. She is the master at mixing courtroom drama with family and love elements. The story starts with a bang- and i really mean a bang! When i read this title, i thought what kind of pact will it be. I least expected it to be a suicide pact- or that's what the writer wants us to believe at first. Emily Gold commits suicide in the arms of the man she loved, Chris Harte.

This book is artfully crafted. Jodi employs the 'now' and 'then' technique in this masterpiece of hers- one i am still yet to master. The 'now' is the aftermath of the suicide. The 'then' tells the story of the Harte and Gold families, living next to each other, doing everything almost together, and from the moment Chris and Emily were born, they were meant to be together. And one cannot recall any memory without having the other in it. Holiday. School. Then throw in sex, expectations and later an abortion. Until the moment of suicide. In the 'now', Chris is accused of the death of Emily, experiences prison life and later, he allegedly face a first degree murder trial- and he has to tell that he did not kill Emily.

This is definitely one of Jodi's best. The story develops well with many layers and subplots. I was deeply engrossed in the last few pages of the book. What really happened. What will happen. Inside, i knew i was on Chris' side but whenever the court drama unfolded, i doubted myself. This book kept me guessing until the end. I thought the ending could have been a little longer though, after all the drama, anticipation and adrenaline still on a high.

With interesting characters, the right mix of issues and elements, and the clever execution of the story by Jodi, The Pact is highly recommendable.

A satisfying read, i am fueled to continue with my own writing work. Hopefully, it can be ready by next year. wc11 makes a pact, with you.

WESTLIFE: Gravity -KL'11-

2011-10-08T16:59:00.005+08:00

"Twinkle!"

Westlife will always have a soft spot in my heart. Growing up with their music, being able to attend their concert here in Malaysia was truly amazing. The feeling was incomparable and definitely unforgettable. As i sat in the concert amongst thousands of fans, i was immediately brought back in time. I recalled how i say 'My Love' in class, when i performed 'Flying Without Wings' in STE and a dedication of the song to my mum on her birthday, when i became a fan-made Eastlife presenting 'I Lay My Love On You' in a Pun Yau celebration, when i looped their songs like 'World of Our Own', 'Something Right', 'Safe', 'I Will Reach You',' Fool Again'- to name a few, over my playlist and keyed in Westlife songs during karaoke sessions with my family and friends. No doubt, they are one of my favourite bands of all-time, ultimately the king of covers, and even better with their own singles. Keeping it in their style, Westlife needs no further proving of themselves- because we know them for what they already are.

I first got to know about their tour in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia through my friend's Facebook share. Then one day, my mum asked if i wanted to go. I was all in! Purchasing the Bronze ticket, the days counted down to seconds, when they finally took the stage, mesmerized us, and...

Let me start from the start- how the day began.

After breakfast, i went to the movies to watch The Three Musketeers. Then, we had lunch at McD and proceeded to my friend's house. Nearly 4.30pm, i made my way to the Ampang LRT, boarded the train, transited at Chan Show Lin station and went into the coach that brought me straight to Bukit Jalil. I carefully made my way to the Putra Indoor Stadium as it was my first time there by train. On the way in, i noticed how stalls were set up to sell Westlife concert goods such as tags and shirts. My anticipation only grew bigger, wilder.

Just to take photographs with 'them', there were queues. I searched for my Bronze entrance. After looking at the VIP, Platinum, Gold, Silver then Media, the Bronze entrance was at the side since it was the upper deck. The queue was not as long as i thought it would be, yet. It was a quarter past five.

The ticket in my hand. I waited for my mum and sister to join me in the line. Slowly, the line grew longer. Despite the drizzle, fans continued to queue- i was lucky to reach the sheltered area of the queue.

My stairs up. It became crowded by 6.45pm. The doors only opened slightly past seven. No food and drinks were allowed in. Security was tight, good thing, and since i was somewhere in the front of the line, it was within minutes when we began our climb up the stairs, to our free seats and prepared for the night.

Waited patiently for the concert to begin. It was scheduled at 8.30pm. They had cam shots and played dance songs to keep us entertained while the clock continued to tick. Delayed for almost 45 minutes, lights went out.

The stadium roared with applause.

The entrance was rather long. Take your time guessing what song made their introduction. At the 2nd minute, you will be able to figure it out. What a start! (Note that the videos will have my voice too- i can't help it)

I thought they will open the concert with 'World of Our Own'. Instead, it was their second song. The energy level for the night flew over the bar!

Next, they performed 'What Makes A Man'. It was a good mellow down. After some chat in between, they performed their single from their latest album, 'Safe'.

Only the first verse and chorus of the song. They sounded really good singing 'live'. They sang 'Home' later.

Westlife did not sing the whole night but instead, there were some things interesting that will continue to make the night memorable- definitely to one couple. It was a different feeling to be witness to a proposal. They said they were calling a fan to the stage and when the man went up with his girlfriend, he was handed a mic to say something. Then, saying how much he loved her, he was down on his knees. I was among the thousands cheering when she said 'yes'. How romantic! And not only that, Westlife dedicated them a song!

'My Love' for the newly weds! Then there was a birthday surprise for their stage manager (i think). Seeing them on stage was simply entertainment. They performed 'Beautiful Tonight'. Later in the show, one of the members video-ed us to upload in his Twitter account and another shared with us his news of their first baby-to-be.

Then, they went in for a wardrobe change and came out wearing sporty attire, and performed a medley of songs by other singers. They sang 'Viva La Vida', 'Only Girl' (still wondering why they sang this song), 'Time/Dirty Bit' and Gaga's 'Bad Romance'.

The Irish pop band then mesmerized us with their singles 'Seasons in the Sun' and later, a powerful pop ballad of 'I'm Already There'. Their solo voices, particularly Shane, shone in this song. It was so powerful it sent shivers down my spine! They also performed their version of 'You Raise Me Up'.

You raise me up.

One of the songs i was looking forward to hearing live was 'I Will Reach You'. They did. Nice.

Reaching us.

The concert was shorter than i thought, and then they said their goodbyes. One song left still not performed- yet, which i terribly wanted to hear live. If they didn't perform this, it's like Celine not singing 'My Heart Will Go On'. Guess which song.

'Flying Without Wings' stole the night and left all fans eager for more. You can hear me calling, with the crowd, for an encore!

And they came out once again, smart, and performed two more songs. 'What About Now'- great cover, and ended the concert with the catchy 'Uptown Girl'.

Westlife needs no proving further. Their name sells. Going there, seeing them on stage, listening to them live. Definitely one of the greats and their songs are evergreen. They may be aging but their songs are a lifetime. It was certainly an experience to remember. I wish i could be there singing by their side, one day. I am a fan of Westlife- their songs, Shane, Mark, Kian and Nicky (and the other member), always.

wc11 is flying without wings!

The Kuching 2011 experience

2011-10-08T16:54:00.003+08:00

"Finding adventure."

From the 29 Sept to 4 Oct 2011, i had another round of great adventure- this time, in the east of Malaysia. The holiday at Kuching, Sarawak will be one i will remember for life for so many reasons.

Read them here.

wc11 eats, sleeps, travels...

Passage of time: Doraemon's dimension

2011-09-17T12:03:00.001+08:00

" Do you know why are eyes placed at the front?

To look forward. " - Nobita in Doraemon

When i was younger (i like using the comparative adjective 'younger' because it tells that i'm still young; instead of 'young' because then, it means i am already old) almost every night before i snoozed into dreamland, i would read Doraemon. Sometimes, i might finish the whole book. There is something about Doraemon that is so engrossing, so appealing that i sometimes wished i was there to be in the fantasy land.

What makes me enjoy reading Doraemon comics are the characters. Seeing how Doraemon helps Nobita, Nobita takes advantage at Doraemon's helping hand, and simply the journey of them together through ups and downs of life sell this comic like none other. Nobita struggles with his study and come home to the lecture of his mother, time and time again getting zero for his tests. Doraemon hails from another world, out from Nobita's drawer, and has since then became his friend, brother, and family. His friends, Sinyu and Giant, at some point, are fun to read. Giant and his singing 'talent' behind the bully never fails to show the softer side when it comes to his mother and sister. He shows respect and obedience to his family. Sinyu, on the other hand, is a rich kid with a boastful attitude, and it is entertaining to see at times when his action bites back. Sizuka, Nobita's girlfriend and future wife, portrays a loving and caring character. Chong Meng makes special on and off appearances and he plays Nobita's rival over Sizuka. In the evenings, they meet at the neighbourhood field and play baseball, and see how everybody runs whenever the ball strikes the glass window of one of the nearby houses. Sometimes, they go over to someone's home and play cards, or to celebrate an occasion. They walk to school together, or sometimes walk on their own and meet them on the way to school. I admire their friendship so much that i would want to live in their neighbourhood. The creator has definitely designed a setting for the comic that blends perfectly well with great characterization of the characters. Simply amiable!

The story of how i grew attached to Doraemon is elusive. I can't remember when it started but i'm pretty sure that it has something to do with a visit to the newspaper stand in the market. One stall in particular sold Doraemon comic books in Malay. Since i can't read Chinese and i don't find any English versions around, the stall became my target week after week. It was because new edition of the comic books would hit the store and i would be there to grab one myself. Like Nobita. I remembered it was Rm 4.50 per book. Then after breakfast, i would lie on a couch and start to read the book, page after page. At bookstores which sell Doraemon comic books, i would visit that section and spend time flipping its pages. Again, like Nobita.

The comic books offer a wide range of stories. Some stories made me laugh non-stop like the microphone which can captivate the attention of others or the one when a chair was throw out the window at a special reversal hour-glass story, while some stories are just tear-jerking. One i can still remember is Book 6's last story when Doraemon needed to leave Nobita and Nobita fought with Giant to prove to Doraemon that he can stand on his own two feet. I needed Book 7's first story to recover. Another was a story that brought Nobita back in time with his grandmother, who reignited his spirit to stand up after every fall. The stories are inspiring and has great inventions- though some might not seem plausible. I'm literally translating some of them to English from my own interpretation- Door to Anywhere (Pintu Sesuka Hati), Flying Bamboo (Buluh Terbang), Diminishing Lamp (Lampu Pengecil), all from his little pocket (saku).

What inspired me to blog about Doraemon in this third installment of Passage of Time was the chat i had with my friends about it. It brought me back to childhood and how amazing those times were. The times of innocence. And Doraemon has definitely taught a lesson or two about life and about people. I read them before i sleep. I read them in my toilet.

There are movies made for Doraemon and TV series based on the comics. There are games on Doraemon. But still, the comic books are my favourite. Drawn in a very circular geometry, Doraemon is undeniably a cute and cuddly cat robot. A cat who fears mice (or mouse). And funny how he never wins at 'rock, paper, scissors'.

Unlike other Japanese comic books, Doraemon has something special that i can associate to and with. And it is Doraemon, Nobita and his friends that i will always talk about.

Have you been into Doraemon's dimension? Share with me. wc11 excuses himself to dive into another Doraemon comic book once you see the full-stop at the end of this sentence.

Season 7, Episode 12: Four.Months

2011-09-14T00:16:00.004+08:00

" Sometimes the world tries to knock it out of you. But i believe in music the way that some people believe in fairy tales. " - August Rush

Finally, i can breathe. The pressures of exam, the sleepless nights, loads of assignments, never-ending tests, will all be put aside for the next four months. Yes, four months and i will be away from uni, doing something else, something i enjoy more. Perhaps, this 4 month-long semester break might be the last in my years of university life. Counting my remaining years, after this, it's all work and no play. There are short breaks, but none as long as 4 months. Four. Months.

We go around asking friends 'how are you spending your four months?'. Popular question. Various acceptable answers. Some opt for pre-intern, some opt for part time jobs. Some go for exchange. Some just go do what they like. But me? What will i be doing? I'm not fixed to any plans at the moment but i have it sort of in mind. Four months is long. But then again, if we plan to work, minus two months at least. Then holidays, probably a week. Then some other work, ending up soon facing the next year, the next semester. I do not want to regret my 4 months doing nothing and i really need to plan my time, organize and prioritize what comes first, what comes next. Whatever it is, first things first, i need a break. 8 months of study is somewhat tiring and it would be a lie if i tell you that i'm not worn out. *exaggeration intended*

It has been a while i last cleared my room, completely. Moving the things from the room to the car, thankfully with the help of my friends, it was faster than i thought and definitely less exhausting. A fully loaded car on a three hour journey back home, always a sweet feeling!

Somehow, i purposely made this season a twelve-episode season. Why? It was just that the number twelve has time and again crossed path in my life. I was born on the twelve. My ETP group number was twelve. I thought it might seem a nice way to end this season with a twelfth episode. This series will take a break and comes back next year. wc11 sits down, plans, prioritizes his time and budget, for what lies ahead. Four. Months. I say 'Bring it on!'

" The music. I can hear it everywhere. In the wind, in the air, in the light. It's all around us. All you have to do is open yourself up. All you have to do... is listen. "

Season 7, Episode 11: It's seven eleven!

2011-09-04T18:51:00.003+08:00

" The meanings of words are not in words, but rather in the people who uses those words. "

It has been a while since i last blogged. I visited my blog regularly but decided to put the updating task on hold. Well, to say i was just focusing on my final exams would not entirely be true. It was a mix of celebrations and stress instead. Celebrations of many reasons, non-academic related though. And a reason why i decided now to steal some time away from my heavily filled books of words, would be my friend's comment, 'You didn't update'.

Going back home welcomed much good food, and even better with the Raya and Merdeka air surrounding the little escapade days. It was the remaining few days of bazaar Ramadan when i was back but it still did not stop me from devouring on my favourites: murtabak ayam 'chicken murtabak', roti bom, roti john, crispy and succulent ayam goreng and sweet brown kuih we call kuih cawan- because it uses the cup as mold. The highlight of my Raya would be the visit to my father's friend's open house. It never fails to satisfy, especially with her incomparably delicious cakes (the Red Velvet picks the best spot, Chocolate comes second already) and Malay dishes of lemang, nasi beriyani kambing and the unforgettable beef rendang! The lunch treat was lip-smacking!

The next day was Merdeka, Malaysia's Independence Day. Somehow, my mood for Merdeka celebration had diminished over the years, especially when stepping into university with no more school day celebrations of Independence. I missed the moments we waved our Jalur Gemilang in pride during our school assembly, singing proudly our national anthem along other patriotic songs (Keranamu Malaysia, Jalur Gemilang, Tanggal 31). And recalling back even to when i was younger the moment my family and i had to wait by the roadside in KL to watch the parade. If it still has, i urge you, Malaysian or not, to experience it because it is an atmosphere you can hardly forget.

This year's Merdeka held another birthday celebration- my grandpa. Dinner was good, with a little too much white wine consumed. Sad to say, it was my second experience. Alcohol, oh alcohol. In another way, it is a sign that i should practice more! And i will practice more, come my 21st birthday in another year time.

Back to the dinner, it was good, and it ended with another devouring round of cake. Perhaps, it was one too many that forced it out.

After dinner, we went back home to wait for the fireworks display by one of the nearby restaurants. The restaurant was organizing a company dinner with fireworks in its agenda. So, matching the date and day together, the firework display was one for the Merdeka celebration too! Happy Independence Day, Malaysia!

As i have mentioned before, in earlier seasons, going back home pose much distraction. Like always, the television. There were just too many good shows airing now: The Voice, The Gates, The Glee Project, Hell's Kitchen, DIVA movies, Wipeout, you name it, it's there, or somehow among what is there. Much to say, books were the only standing, open thing between me and the television. With great technology comes great distraction. I don't mean just the television but other devices too.

Because too much play time, and relaxing moments, it's time to drill as fast and as much as possible these last few days. Exams are already rearing their heads while i buckle up to load my guns and missiles. I like study, i like learning, but i never like exams.

My friend said how we wished we could burn the books and drink them down. Doraemon ingeniously invented another, a bread in which we can print our notes on them and swallow them down, straight so that it is in our mind.

If Doraemon comes to my world, it'll solve the pressures of exams for now.

wc11 returns to hitting the books, with mind swaying on and off to the moment of his own 'independence'.

Season 7, Episode 10: Swimming above assignments

2011-08-19T23:54:00.004+08:00

" So let the children remember the sun,
Let them dance, let them soar, for their lives have begun.
Let the children engender the rain,
As the river runs through fields,
Forever subsiding their pain, prayer. " - Celine Dion, Prayer (special tribute)

At the beginning of this semester, i remembered posting on my Facebook wall that i have positive feeling for this semester. A comment followed, welcoming me to the semester of mother-of-all assignments. Sitting down, typing this 10th episode, 13th week of the semester, i find the comment true. Deadlines are drives, but if all comes crashing onto the same time, or almost the same time, i have to remind myself of the date, day and yes, time. In case i missed out. In case i forgot. Either way, i needed to remind myself of the pending tasks. And trying to be optimistic during these times as a student is always a challenge. Perhaps, another drive is what lies ahead- the study week, dubbed the pre-4-month semester break. Of course, there's the final exam, but that's another story.

I am still swimming across the ocean of assignments. I'm blogging here because we all need time-out, right? Even with the heavy piles of work, remember, it is necessary to take care of yourself. And in my definition of taking care of myself is to have meals at meal times, movies at movie time, play at play times and study at study times. Plus, it's Friday night. Balance.

It has been past half the month of Ramadan. To be honest, i have grown a deeper understanding of Ramadan, thanks to my Cultural Anthropology assignment. In fact, one of the days, i had 'sahur' with my friends, as early as 1am, and fast until 7.30pm. One of the things i enjoy most of Ramadan is the moment of breaking fast together. You, your friends, your family around the table, food in front of you, and waiting patiently for the prayer. It reminds me of the Chinese reunion dinner. Then there is the bazaar. If you are to visit one, my suggestion is to set a budget, and if discipline cannot control you, i suggest you to leave only the amount you prepared to spend at the bazaar in your wallet and leave the remaining somewhere else. The urge to splurge is thrilling, looking at the colourful kuihs, variety of rice, chicken, murtabak, satay, roti john, and the list goes on and on. I'm looking forward to Hari Raya already!

Three down, three to go.

Planning ahead, the 4 months break is a long time. Any idea or recommendation of things to do? I have some in mind but i need to prioritize and make sure i use the time to the fullest. It will be my final official semester break in my uni life. After this, there will be no more long break. I'm planning to visit Siam Reap, Cambodia- a planning still at its earliest stage. Anyway, traveling is one of the listed things to do, probably somewhere on the top. So, you'll see me where i see you.

Enough of breathing time, wc11 continues to swim, in any style as long as it reaches the destination.

Season 7, Episode 9: So SEDEX...

2011-08-14T00:28:00.003+08:00

"There will be no fade out, this is not the end.
I'm down now, but i'll be standing tall again.
Times are hard but, i was built tough.
I'm gonna show you all what i'm made of..." - Haven't Seen The Last of Me, Cher, Burlesque.

After weeks of working together, preparing, rushing and practicing, the moment of truth arrived. Our project prototype was tested and evaluated. Three rounds. First, it was by the supervisor. Then, the pre-SEDEX examiners. And finally, it qualified to be showcased at the SEDEX exhibition in my uni and evaluated by another set of judges. It was a journey well taken by the team. Meet AVIAxii.

So, what is it actually? What is AVIAxii? Explaining to you would not be my last, and definitely not my first. AVIAxii comes from two words- AVIA from aviation and xii the number 12, symbolizing our team's goal to fly high and our team number in the project course known as the Engineering Team Project, ETP. Our project involves the knowledge of rack and pinion, and the understanding to electromagnetism, or electromagnetic induction specifically. The device invented is an add-on to your shoes whereby as you walk, it charges the battery.

As you walk, the rack moves the pinion, which in turn moves the gear fixed with a magnet. The magnetic field cuts the metal plates fixed at the bottom, causing magnetic flux and induces emf. This project is inspired by the use in torchlight.

We were grouped randomly. The team comprises of another PE mate, and each from EE, ME, CE and CV. I set the goal of the project really high- a gold medalist in the exhibition. So, being qualified to the SEDEX was one step closer to realizing the goal. It was being optimistic and believing in the prototype, and pray for good examiners, that i believed got us through to the exhibition.

After our pre-SEDEX evaluation with the poster and prototype.

Our prototype, undressed.

On the day of the exhibition, i somehow felt our team project wasn't as fascinating as others or as big as those nearby my booth, and i began to question my team's fate. Whether it was gold worthy. Perhaps, i have been seeing it almost more than 5 weeks that i look to it as something usual. Anyway, i still hoped.

Against the posters in the booth during SEDEX.

Then we had our turn to present to the judges. The presentation was different. It felt different. It was different. Something broke during our demonstration. And i somehow thought the team might not be rewarded any medal after what happened. I didn't put my hopes high by i tried to remain as optimistic as possible, for the team, for myself, until the moment results were announced. Grateful and thrilled, AVIAxii wins the Silver medal.

Team members with the medal.

The Silver medal.

No doubt, the journey AVIAxii has been through, is one i will remember. The experience with the team members was amazing and despite the differences, i believe in the end we managed to pull through a pretty good show that bore us splendid results. Not gold, but a gold winner at heart- it's not a loser man's saying, it's the echo to the truth of what we felt. In fact, from my experience in SEDEX, or ETP on the whole, there are no losers. We have worked and achieved something together, and that lies deeper and far beyond the meaning of producing just a prototype. We learn along the way, of people, of developing a project.

This is not my first and clearly, not the last.

wc11 congratulates to all. Gold. Silver. Bronze. And other ETP groups. Remember, only you know if you really have won.

Season 7, Episode 8: U-bonding in the East

2011-08-04T23:18:00.003+08:00

" If you have a ticket to travel Around The World, where will you go?
Malaysia?
'Tak Boleh...' (Cannot)
*scratches head* "

We had a Field Trip for 3 days; but really, the field trip was only over 4 hours. It was the bus ride to the destination, filled with unlimited fun; the amazing stay at a beach side resort along with people i grew to know closer that made this trip memorable. In fact, the field trip was surely an educational one but above everything else, i felt this trip bonded us closer- closer than ever.

It began on Saturday when we were divided into two buses and stayed in that particular group throughout the trip. We traveled south, stopping along the way for toilet breaks and 'makan'. As our lecturer commented, 'you eat at every stop'. It was true because on the bus, we only sat and when we had the chance to stretch our legs, we walked to the shops. Lunch was at McD and the entire group queued for the burgers! Great influx of customers.

In front of the McD!

Part of the group at Genting Sempah after lunch.

Traveled for another 6 hours or so towards Kerteh. Had dinner at Mesra Mall. It was better than some malls in KL. TGV Cinema was there. Bowling. Futsal. Burger King. Starbucks. Secret Recipe. I felt like strolling along the nights in a Western country instead. In short, i was really impressed.

Reached the Residence Resorts. Hurried to put our bags down, headed for welcoming drink at the cafe and discovered what the resort has to offer. Played Monopoly Deal cards until late, and with little 'night' time remaining, a good night's sleep was what we needed.

Woke up the next day as early as 6.30am. Had breakfast and departed to the tour site in Kemaman. Manage to steal some sleep in the bus.

Before we started our tour...

Had a short briefing...

Then a gist of the life of a Petroleum Engineer. Seen here is a choke manifold (no further explanation intended).

As i said, the tour lasted about 4 hours and we were off to lunch, again at Mesra Mall. Went back to the resort for 'free and easy' period. How can you resist the beach?

Of sands and seas!

Played football on the sands...

Taking a 'leap of faith'...

The Great Wall of China meets the Taj Mahal sand's imagination!

Hit the big waves... Sea was rough and clearly not advisable to play in it. On the edge of the waters, that's another story.

The beach time was great, with the right mix of people, the right things to do, the right time and obviously, the right place. I am always one with the seas, and sands, and nothing beats the music it creates.

Taking a chance on Paka, we walked to the nearby town to hunt for dinner. There wasn't much options and so we settled for a restaurant at a corner, opposite the police station.

I realized that the price per meal, or the cost of living, around the place was relatively higher than i expected. With the booming Kerteh nearby, Mesra Mall amongst others, no doubt my dinner plate of fried rice 'Minang' was RM 6.90. However, it was good dinner and as i've stressed again much in this post, good company.

Wore out by the day, i slept early and woke up to witness the sunrise. Alas, it was cloudy and when we could see the Sun, it was already above the horizon. Needless to say, there will be more opportunities for this in the future. Had breakfast and halfheartedly packed our belongings. I clearly didn't want to go back, and i can say much for the rest of us. Lots of stress await us back in uni. Anyhow, our time in the resort was up and we left to travel another 10 hours back.

I have never spent so much time with my coursemates and friends, and to say the least, i now know and remember at least most of their names. And became friends on Facebook. It was indeed more than just looking at metals. It was, to me, a great bonding trip that i'd love to rerun the journey.

wc11 says 'Hello' to a whole new experience.

"Nak pergi (Can go to) America boleh?
Boleh (Can)~~~"

Season 7, Episode 7: Rollercoaster week

2011-07-15T10:17:00.005+08:00

" Everybody wants to, look into the mirror,
And feel a little better now. "

Phew... This week had been tough. Real tough. Coming back from the short mid-sem break, i was slammed with three tests. And the tests showed no mercy on me- it was tricky, cruel, challenging, and when i stepped into the hall for the tests, i was overcame with nervousness and on-and-off, my mind went blank. I made mistakes where i knew the correct answers- that aches. And reflecting back, all i can hope for is the best possible after the much effort i poured into studying for the tests. Whatever the outcome may be, though with a tinge of regret, i have to accept it as i did my best and move forward.

" And everybody wants to, know there's someone out there,
Waiting for you to come around. "

And that's not including the other factors that stresses me lately. There are group projects piling up along with the other pending tasks. I feel really pressured at this moment of time and yes, i need a getaway. It surely has been a rollercoaster week for me. I am supposed to feel relief now that the week's ending, but i don't feel any slight sense of satisfaction. I pray for the best.

" And i wish that, you could feel it,
But you don't choose, to believe it,
Cause i know that, you can't see it that way, that way. "

Moving on to something more cheerful- and am writing this with a great sense of nostalgia, the mid-sem break was great. Perhaps it was the post-holidays mood that affected me too. Anyway, two of my friends, YH and Steward came down to KL for the mid-sem break and i was the tour guide for this little tour around the city. I always enjoy tourism and probably i can start a mini project on food and tourism during my long semester break.

This two-day tour began after picking up Steward from the train station and we headed to the KL Bird Park. It has been ages since i last entered the park. I was pleased with the visit to the park. It is well maintained, and the free flight aviary makes it all the more exciting. The birds are within our touch and when they flew, i just thought they might hit us. We can feel the wind from its flapping.

The hawk perches on my arm!

At the entrance of the Bird Park. We stayed until the Bird Show at 12.30pm.

From KL, we moved to Sri Rampai area for lunch and after lunch, we headed to the Royal Selangor Pewter factory. I always like going there.

The tour was short and after trying our hands on the work an employee does, we reached the end of the tour. There are pewter items sold too. Pricey but worth the price.

The popular mug- anyone who comes here will take a photo with this.

After the pewter visit, we went to Batu Caves. It was the final stop for the day and after dinner and supper, it was a night well rested.

Morning the next day was a hiking trip. It is satisfying to reach the top and enjoy the scenic view of the 'lake' and city- though there was haze (not blogging further on that) at that time.

Breakfast after a hike up, then washed up and prepared for Yong Tau Foo lunch. Another highlight of the trip, Transformers Dark of the Moon in 3D!

In Pavilion. i enjoyed the movie, especially because of the ending action scenes. Really tied the story up nicely. More review on my movie blog.

Waiting for the movie to begin.

In short, the trip was memorable and enjoyed til the last bit. I hope for another retreat soon, to calm myself down and make sure i get back on the horse fast enough, before it leaves me behind.

" If you could only just stop, stop, stop running,
If you could only take a second to breathe in,
Everything that you know would be beautiful, like you. " - Beautiful Like You, Lee Dewyze

wc11 is pressurized this rollercoaster week and experiences unstable emotion!

Season 7, Episode 6: Run this Ipoh International Run 2011.

2011-07-03T15:53:00.003+08:00

" Runners just do it- they run for the finish line even if someone else has reached it first." - Author unknown

This weekend was a weekend of many firsts. It began with the signing up in the Group D category of the recent Ipoh International Run 2011. It was Thursday, the same day my friends and i cooked breakfast together for the first time, and the last day of online registration. A most impromptu decision to go Ipoh that night and woke up the next day early for a meeting with ETP supervisor. I had never participated in any of such runs. Joining this 10 km distance to complete within 80 minutes was a goal i set for myself, initially.

But i had no proper training before and only left a few days to boost my stamina. I had a previous injury on my leg and after the first training, i could feel the pain pressing. Needless to say, i felt my goal turning elusive and far-fetched. So, i decided that i would complete it in whatever time possible. Training continued for the next day (Friday) and that's when i can really feel the pain as i ran. Feeling demotivated at the leg, spirited at the heart. The last day (Saturday), we had swimming instead- in hopes that i don't overexert pressure on my leg. The day finally arrived. We woke up as early as 4 am to prepare for the run and the bus transport to the venue.

Waiting patiently for the bus to leave uni. The first time i woke up this early in my uni life.

Had breakfast in room and arrived the venue- Stadium Indera Mulia nearly after six. We moved to our registration booth for final check-in before we stretched our legs and do little warm ups- our stomachs began to challenge the resist. Kept our bags and prepared for the run, we were later moved to the starting point at seven and cheered together with the rest of thousands of participants to ignite the spirit. Like a new year's countdown, we counted down to one and the gun was fired. My 10 km run kicked off!

The starting line. Ready.

It was challenging. Tiring. Exhausting.

Run.

Then walk.

To run again.

When i saw the distance markers, as seen here is 7km, i was motivated. I looked to my watch, with 3 more kms to go and i still have enough time to finish before 80 mins, i pushed myself so hard that i forgo the thoughts of pain in my leg and my thinning stamina.

I could see the finishing line and my heart raced and my spirit burned! I knew i could do it!

A little bit more. Don't give up! Ran in the D lane to the end!

I finished the 10km run within the 80 minutes. And i was genuinely thrilled; brimming with smiles worn over my wearied face, and felt pure satisfaction. I achieved my goal!

Queuing up for the Milo and 100 Plus. It's all about mind over body in the end. If you put your mind in it, against all odds, you can emerge triumphant. Set the mind to strength.

Completing the run, i now feel like i have become a different person with another whole new perspective. I have never really fought with myself, this hard this long, for a long long time. Aside from academics, i forgot how it felt like to push myself. And this pushed me to my limit. I kept on moving; never stopped to catch a breath, never stopped to rest. To run with a crowd, beside friends, is a different feeling. People of all ages ran next to me: small kids, school students, seasoned runners and senior citizens; and people of all sizes. It was inspiring, to see what inspired them and in return, inspired me to complete the run.

I came back to uni with a greater sense of achievement and despite the aching legs and body, it was a truly memorable experience; one i will never forget.

wc11 keeps on running, and running, and running...

Holding the certificate of completion in front of the finishing line. This kicks start the training and spirit to my Mount Kinabalu climb in the future.

" If you can't fly then run, if you can't run then walk, if you can't walk then crawl, but whatever you do you have to keep moving forward. " - Martin Luther King Jr.

Season 7, Episode 5: Egg-citing breakfast!

2011-06-30T16:16:00.001+08:00

" To live is the rarest thing in the world. Most people exist, that is all. " - Oscar Wilde

It had been a while since my friends and i wanted to cook in uni. Somehow, lately, the act of designing impromptu plans began to encroach into our lives. Planning to cook was a plan thought about long before, but what to cook and how to cook was another story.

It was cooking dinner that we wanted to do. But as this was our first attempt, we decided to make breakfast instead. Plus, it fitted our schedule better than night. So, we confirmed on the day before, with other obligations i had on my shoulder, to prepare an all egg breakfast menu.

After purchasing some electronic devices in Pasir Putih for my ETP project, i went to buy eggs- the core ingredient, a jumbo sized loaf of bread and hot dogs in Tesco. Pressing for time, i got the things and headed back uni. The next morning began our little quest in the kitchen.

The stuffs used in the cooking.

Woke up early and dragged out from bed, we excitedly set our stuffs and readied to cook. The wonder thing about egg is that there are so many different ways to cook it. Bearing in mind that too much egg is not good, we selected our preferred choice of cooking it: scrambled, omelette, French toast, egg toast sandwich and hard-boil (it was supposed to be egg mayonnaise sandwich but the mayonnaise tasted different).

Our omelette turned to look like a pizza. A not bad idea.

Friend, YH preparing egg toast sandwich, standing next to the frying hot dogs.

Hot dog was simple- fry. As for drinks, friend, YW made banana-chocolate chip milkshake the night before.

A hearty breakfast!

Though the long time spent in the kitchen, it was a successful attempt that produced satisfying results. Now we know we can cook, it is time to move on to more complicated dishes, or serve dinner instead!

One of my earlier trials back home was the Chicken Cordon Bleu- a memorable experience, and though feeling much egg-y the entire day, it was an interesting event.

I realized that i made a crazy decision. I am participating the Ipoh Run- with my own personal goals instead, with my friends. Watch out for that post!

wc11 gets ready to run with a belly filled with egg white and yolk, bread and milkshake!

Season 7, Episode 4: So green!

2011-06-19T16:29:00.002+08:00

" In brightest day, in blackest night...
In our darkest hour, there will be light. " - Green Lantern

Another superhero movie is marked off my list, closing down the date to my most anticipated movie of this year- Transformers: Dark of the Moon! With Transformers on the top of my list, i'm also looking forward to watch others like Captain America, Rise of the Planet of the Apes, and Smurfs- yes, the blue mushroom-like creatures i remembered fondly in my childhood days. Counting or listing these movies means another thing too, that i have to dig deeper into my pocket to fork out movie ticket purchases. The price for entertainment.

I will not write my comment or review of the Green Lantern in this post or blog. Click here to read the review. I created another blog only to focus on movie reviews.

Last Thursday-Friday, i became tour guide to a friend who wants to explore Ampang. Unfortunately, the days weren't long enough to share completely what Ampang has to offer. Plus, Friday traffic is a headache. With the time we had, i arranged for the best it could accommodate- this includes the Green Lantern movie at Wangsa Walk.

It was not entirely a makan trip but surely, food was a constant companion. Leaving uni in the afternoon- after another friend successfully baked strawberry cheese cake, we headed to KL. Going home, my mum prepared home-cooked delights! And for supper, a naan corner place my family and i have been to since i was just a kid. No worries, i don't intend to make your mouth water. (Photographs of the food can be viewed in my Facebook photo album)

The next day, after breakfast in the market and after the movie, we went for Yong Tau Foo, a popular food in Ampang. Then, we left for Batu Caves. It has been a while since i last climbed to the top and after that day's visit, count me in on any other climbs there. Somehow, i was overwhelmed by a sense of joy and satisfaction standing at its peak, looking at the steps and the city below. Learning geology was another extra that made me share the passion and appreciation for rocks- and caves are rocks. On sacred grounds, i am truly grateful to be blessed.

In the cave. Behind me is a scenic view of the cave rocks.

Working my friend's camera effect.

Something you don't see in your everyday life. Carrying boxes on his head while climbing over 200 steps to reach the top.

Before leaving Batu Caves- i don't mind going there again.

The weather was not blazing hot that day, thankfully, but we still needed something to quench our thirst. What better to come to mind other than cendol in Melawati. The cendol-rojak combination is surely a must in such time! Then we moved to Great Eastern Mall for dinner- if dinner is what it should be called. Alexis was the highlight of the Great Eastern Mall trip. Living in KL, i have never stepped into this bistro until that day and i was truly amazed at its interior. Of course, a trip to Alexis may not yet be an everyday, or every month affair- the price is higher than usual, but rewards once in a while has made this place come to mind for quality.

In Alexis Great Eastern Mall for dessert. The stage is readied for a band performance later in the night.

Becoming a tour guide for one day somehow sparked an idea. Merging food and tourism together, and i have mentioned of food and travel blog time and time again, perhaps i can be your personal tour guide to Ampang and KL. Drop me a message anytime.

Back to serious business, it's the coming of Week 5 of the semester and i really need to read my books. Yes, read my books because my courses this semester mostly involve reading. wc11 enjoys the temporary work as a tour guide and doesn't mind for more!

*This post celebrates the 200th post of this blog, The Wonders of Life. Thank you for your support.

Season 7, Episode 3: Sudden dinner trip in Ipoh

2011-06-15T16:56:00.006+08:00

" Perfect does not mean you are beautiful; but once you are beautiful, you become perfect. "

I wonder if the title caught your attention. If you know me well enough, or long enough, you will know that i'm the type of person that tends to have everything planned out, setting my strategies and clearing the path for something. So, the word 'sudden' or impromptu will not best describe me. But i'm working on it.

The good thing about being sudden or impromptu is that i don't need to think much in advance. All i needed was a few moments before the event to make a choice. Sometimes, i can choose even without much thought put into it, believing in myself and trusting my instincts. Needless to say, this sudden encounter wasn't my very first, and i believe not my very last, as i recalled a tale of mine i will still proudly talk about today- the day i lost my 'club virginity'. That was really, really impromptu.

So i first heard of, or practice, the word impromptu when i was in drama during my secondary school. I remembered i was on stage for a scene where i played a solo. A solo where my script was rather long. It had to be nervousness or butterflies that i somehow lost some of the words in the process, and i had to make up for the lost lines in seconds. I definitely didn't want to stand clueless on stage and threaten my school's winning chance, so i had to speak impromptu lines. I had to make impromptu movements. And from that very lesson on stage, i realized that i can handle such situation and like all masters, training is definitely necessary.

Last Sunday was the latest encounter of suddenness. Though i have to admit, it was not wholly impromptu. We discussed whether to make a trip to Ipoh earlier the weekend but it was all talk- as they say, only thunder, no rain. So until Sunday afternoon, we couldn't find a car to rent to head to the town and somehow lost hope, deciding to stay in uni after three days of the weekend- another wouldn't cost. Not long after that, a text came in and we had a car to rent.

With some names and types of food to hunt in Ipoh came to mind, we hopped into the car and sped to start our dinner outing. Nothing but eating and chatting for the next six hours!

The first stop was the Hor Hee 'Fish Ball' noodles, a popular spot my family and i went before. Next was the Nga Choi Kai 'Chicken with Bean Sprout', another must try delicacy in town. Done with the appetizer and main dish, we had dessert in Tong Shui Kai 'Dessert Street' and supper of the famous Chee Cheong Fun. The mushroom gravy of it is surely a die-for! As the night was still young, we drifted to Greentown for Old Town Kopitiam and stayed until the shop workers had to ask us out. Back to my room in uni with a packet of Heong Pang, a flavourful, local cookie that sticks to the mouth, the trip was an interesting one.

Iced mixed fruit dessert to cool the night in Tong Shui Kai.

I will be creating a food blog of mine soon. But in the meantime, i'll settle for what was done in this.

And since i missed the much anticipated mango-lo, a cold, iced mango dessert in Tong Shui Kai, i'm sure i will be back there for more soon, and stretch this food trip to more than just one night!

This is certainly another impromptu encounter, a sudden dinner outing that i'm happy to brag about. You may not know this; it isn't just the food that won the night over!

wc11 eats to his stomachs pleasure...

Season 7, Episode 2: A First Class

2011-06-09T15:54:00.001+08:00

" You want society to accept you, when you can't even accept yourselves? " - X-Men: First Class

I watched X-Men on the second day it was opened. I had to, especially being a fan of X-Men. I won't dwell on the movie. If you want to read more, go to my other blog. Anyway, in short, this movie is a class on its own. Great plot and amazing acting, this movie surely leaves you with a taste for more mutant power!

It has been three weeks since the new semester began. Frankly, the courses i enrolled this semester makes me feel 'different' for now. 'Different' as in not being in the mood to study. I have classes only three days a week- that's less than half a week. Mostly project works. And the lectures i attended were stories of experiences relating to the course. Plus, only one core for this semester.

Anyhow, i have a great feeling about this semester, and on the bright side, I will have more time to focus on myself. Yes, this includes getting in shape, writing/reading or simply, going back home more often- hopefully the third one is possible.

The rating for last season was announced, and that's a really long story. Really, long. They announced the results to be out on Wed but unfortunately, the system had a problem, making me live in anxiety for the entire day. So i waited until the next day, morning til evening, looking at the tab on my page for the Hotmail to move. Nothing, only Facebook or other mails came in. After dinner, still there wasn't any news- my friends received theirs already. Painfully waiting, the moment of truth arrived sometime past ten. From all the waiting, anxiety and nervousness, i was blinded by the screen when it appeared, stunned momentarily. I'm most certainly grateful for my result. To a wonderful season again!

I'm finally relieved off my President role for ELC. A great year of boundless experience. It will always have a place in me and it's a story that i will pass on for generations- exaggeration intended! In a nutshell, ELC taught me more than i could offer.

So, three weeks down and into the first weekend here in uni. I wonder what it would be like, four days of... of... *help me think of what to do*

wc11 sits on his table and stares into the laptop screen.

I don't mind having one now. Weekend escape to SP.

" There's good in you too and you can harness all that. You have a power that no one can match, not even me. "

*A four-star rating last season.

Season 7, Episode 1: A superheroic start!

2011-05-29T09:58:00.003+08:00

" Eyes have never seen, this big,
No one's ever dreamed, this big,
And i'll spend the rest of my life
Explaining what words cannot describe but i'll try,
I love you this big... "
- I Love You This Big, Scott M., AI 10 winner.

One week of semester break wasn't enough. After much time spent on words and slides and notes, i have only one week to relax before it starts back at one. I couldn't even finish a novel! I was preoccupied until the last bit of a week's freedom. Thor. Fast 5. Secondary schoolmates meet up. Bro's birthday celebration. Wesak day. On the bright side- a really bright one, i will be having mid-sem breaks practically every weekend. I have classes on Monday til Wednesday only with 15 credit hours at hand. In a way, i might be free-er this semester.

So like all first weeks, deliberation on which course to add, to forward, to drop was made. And thankfully by now, my time and schedule for the week is set and confirmed.

The first week was pretty relaxing as i headed back KL for a wedding- and oh, i just love weddings! My grandaunt-nanny's daughter's wedding surely was a wonderful one. Is it weird for me to think about how my wedding should be already?

School's out and the holidays begin for school children. Pavilion KL is a place you should be if you have a heart of Superman, an automobile like Batman or a ring like Green Lantern! The DC Comic superheroes are the highlight and as a fan of heroes, i was all ready with my camera! The display will be until next weekend.

Batman is my favourite among all. I don't know why. Perhaps, it's his story that attracted me.

Behind me is a comic of Superman in action!

Justice League and the DC Comic Superheroes!

Currently, i'm on a work progress for a fantasy story and hopefully, it will be amongst the likes and greats of DC and Marvel!

Now to American Idol 10. Scott McCreery was crowned the winner with 'Love You This Big' as the winning song. The result show was entertaining and i couldn't agree more if anyone says AI is back! J Lo and Steven Tyler, who performed Dream On, brought AI to a much amazing stage of its show. And Randy's 'In it to win it' motto this season was hilarious, especially in his clip! R Seacrest will always be remembered as the AI host. I believe Lauren, the runner up, is now idols to many of the girls in America! Way to go AI!

Second week. Things might get busier, but still, four days of weekend break! wc11 cheers to a superheroic start, and prays everything goes well this season!

At National Geographic KL, Lot 10.

Season 6, Episode 9: On the edge of glory

2011-05-15T02:10:00.000+08:00

"I'm on the edge of glory,
and I'm hanging on a moment with you... "
- The Edge of Glory, Lady Gaga

You'll know when a good song is really a good song- when it's nailed to your mind and you hum to its melody in any silent moment. That was what i felt after listening to Gaga's new single. I felt it uplifting, motivating and captivating altogether. It has beat and lyrics that still not yet be discovered of any underlining, more abstract meanings. This one is rather clear as Gaga is usually very artful, in her music, with symbolism. She proves once again of her uniqueness with this. This song in particular grew to become my favourite song from her hitherto. Hooked from the start to the end, including and especially the saxophone part, this song accompanied me throughout my recent exam days. And what more better to be for it felt like being on the edge of glory in this very moment!

This post isn't entirely to compliment this new, great music.

As i am typing this, i have already completed my second year of study- means this is the final episode of the season. A remarkable season, i would say! Well, i don't find it necessary to blog over my exams. I've worked hard and attempted my best. Plus, my break is only one week. One. Week. So instead of allocating time dwelling on the past papers, why not channel all those time to something better. One week- so many things in mind to do, so little time.

I've recently watched 'Spartacus: Blood and Sand'. I would highly recommend this show if not for its excessive display of sensuality. It has great plot- seriously so unpredictable, dark and heavy drama filled with deceit and manipulation, paired with amazing acting and stunning action (or gory) scenes. It is definitely a show of the Gladiator-era that is worth watching- you can be moved to tears in some of its episodes too!

American Idol 10 cuts into its Top 3, forcing another one of my favourite the exit- James Durbin. He has his moments on Idol, truly remarkable, and has great high vocals. But i got to kind of agree with the comments on him being lately off pitch. With his departure, i'm putting my faith on Lauren to fit into the finale, forcing either Haley- doing exceptionally well in last few weeks, and Scott- never like him, out the run. This week will be interesting.

I had completed another short story masterpiece, entitled 'Counting Stars'. It's about love in the brink of blindness. Stay tuned.

Lately, i read many biographies of people who weren't an actor (from other professions) who then chose to be in the film industry. Somehow, a change of heart. And if it is to happen to me, it'll be another dream come true.

So much for the second year, and Season 6. Hopefully, everything goes glorious! wc11 bids you a break, and will resume his life in uni the next season!

Season 6, Episode 8: Week 14 meets the Wedding!

2011-04-29T17:11:00.004+08:00

" Say goodbye in the pouring rain, and i breakdown as you walk away. Cause all my life i felt this way, but i could never find the words to say. Stay... with me, stay... " - Stay, Hurts

I have to say this- this post is on the same date as the Royal Wedding. To be honest, i have never known or read so much about the royal family until today. Thanks to the Star for the coverage and SkyNews for the wedding- even with American Idol Result show airing on the other channel, i'm compelled to witness the wedding. Although it was for long hours, anticipating their union is somewhat the wedding everyone will talk about. Oh, i just like weddings!

And wedding bells and choir and the wedding gown!

After two, last weeks of this semester, i can finally take a little time off to unwind and rest before i dive into the books again. If the most hectic week is to be chosen, it had to be Week 13. Even with the Tuesday a public holiday, the rest of the week was less sleep, more stress. There were tests on Wednesday and Friday, Presentation hosting on Wednesday, assignments submission on Wednesday and Thursday and an unannounced quiz on Thursday. Looking back at that week, i always question myself, how did i survive through the week. Indeed, it is always a nice feeling to know what you've done and accomplished. For whatever the results may be, i know i tried my best in all.

I woke up this week smiling. I got up from bed and headed to my work desk- otherwise known as my table with laptop, and switched it on. The mail that caught my eyes was the one i sent over the weekend, about a work me and my team we doing. And it has gotten the approval. The April Issue 2011 of Heart of Tronoh (HOT). Do check it out. If you want to know what it is, it's my uni's official campus newsletter. I was smiling the entire day, and hopefully that smile will last this entire week- the last week. Even the last week, as always a rush to complete coursework before the semester closes- more so with the shortened semester, i had a lab test on Tuesday and test on Wednesday, and assignment deadlines on Tuesday and Thursday. Of course, the ideal getaway is, and always will be, a trip back home!

So here i am, blogging to you from home, in front of the TV watching the wedding of the year.

I just knew Thor is opening today. Who's in?

Stay by Hurts.

wc11 rings the bell and gets set for the study week ahead!

Passage of time: A Pokemon confession

2011-04-24T18:47:00.007+08:00

" I see now that the circumstances of one's birth are irrelevant ; it's what you do with the gift of life that determines who you are." - The First Movie, Pokemon.

Heard the quote before? Probably you may or may not know that i was once a fan of Pokemon. Well, 'was' isn't exactly the right word to use because i still am having that interest for Pokemon. Sometimes, i do reopen my orange box where i keep my Pokemon cards in it and duel with my brothers. I am a fire-plant deck. I know, what a combination, but i don't play for tournaments- i play for the joy of it.

I remembered fondly of my Pokemon days. I can't exactly recall how this interest sparked but cards were one of those things that amplified it. I collected cards, bought them at game shops or traded them with my family and friends. Yes, it was the Pokemon fever during my childhood years and like every child, we want to have more of everything- more cards, more rare cards, with star shaped marks or limited edition ones that make them all the more valuable.

It was sometime ago when Fridays used to be the day i go to my friend's house, or they come over, to have battles. Somehow, these card games bonded us closer together, though sometimes, battles might turn uncomfortable. But it teaches something- we win some, we lose some, but more importantly, it's about teamwork and cooperation. It was some weekends too that i can remember going to my cousin's house, as a secondary purpose to play these cards together. We played with his neighbours too- almost the whole neighbourhood had a deck. To raise the stake, bets we made. Loser loses a card- i hate this.

Because buying new cards are expensive, these Pokemon cards are seen as a reward for something. It somehow taught me about budgeting and saving. Or when i am satisfied at something i put effort in like the exams or my good behaviour, i get one. A packet of card costs about RM 12, in my days. My parents can't buy one for me only- my brothers will ask for themselves too so each visit ended up three times the price, which made it more challenging to buy. And with the amount of pocket money i received monthly, every bought Pokemon cards meant something to me. I can remember one time when i was out in KLCC, i was tempted to buy a packet. I called my mum to know if she allowed me. And she did!

Not only were the cards causing the Pokemon craze- the games too! I had a Gameboy last time (it's barely functioning today) and with the cartridge fixed to it, my game was saved. Yellow. Blue. Gold. Silver. I remembered even waking up early one day to bury my head in the small screen. Probably a reason of my short-sightedness today. Every battle creates the suspense and eagerness to win. Sometimes when my Pokemon misses, i hope the enemy also misses. I reached the end stage, after collecting all gym badges and was in the league, battling other trainers. I also had the connector- i'm not sure what it's called, but i can duel with my cousin with it.

The only problem with the game, or Gameboy, was that it was battery-powered. So each time the red light dimmed, i needed a new battery. And again, batteries are not cheap. I had an adapter though, but nothing beats the device being portable! While waiting for dinner. In a car trip. Somehow, i don't find such equivalent joy when playing today's iPod games like Angry Birds, Cut The Rope, etc. I'm not saying that it's not great. It's just that Pokemon games will always have a place in me. Moving the avatar, meeting other trainers and the screen spirals in. The avatar meets the opponent. He throws a Pokeball and out comes a Pokemon. You throw yours and the battle begins! We can attack, use items or change Pokemon.

You can witness your Pokemon evolving too, after much love and care invested in them. And that sound, the the screen blinking on and off.

Then there was the TV series and movies. I knew what time of the day the show aired and i came to the front of the TV to impatiently wait for it, as it plays the opening credits with memorable song. The title comes out and i was all eager to watch the show. Ash with his adorable Pikachu. And surely, it was every kid-with-Pokemon-interest's dream to be Ash. Living in a world to become the greatest Pokemon master, experiencing adventures with his best friends. Seriously, the bond of friendship is gold to the show. And at the end of the show, when they had fast clips to name the Pokemon, i remembered i knew all of them.

One reason why i was inspired to blog about this is because i had just watched the first and second movie of Pokemon again. Yes, the one with Mew Two and the one with the three Legendary Birds. Instantly, it ignited that long, silent passion. Watching them reminded me of Squirtle, Bulbasaur, Charizat, Psyduck, and even the miserable but entertaining to watch Team Rocket and Meowth! The movie has great values and i'm sure when i have a kid one day, i will show them what Pokemon movies are and learn the values the movies have to offer.

Playing Pokemon cards, games or watching the show is not being childish but it is an act that you relive your childhood moments. Whether or not you are a fan of Pokemon- and that you may not share the same liking to this post, i believe you have at least one childhood memory of such and that you cherish them. Being an adult doesn't mean you need to let go off the things you imagined much as a child, it is about using those memories to learn from and become a person who you really are.

No doubt, as time goes by, we tend to forget and have lost little passion of it. Find that one thing that can rekindle your sweet childhood times. It may not be Pokemon. Perhaps Doraemon- don't get me started on that, or Power Rangers, Dragon Ball, Sailor Moon, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle or Transformers, and you will realize that time, at that moment, stops and you'll be transported back to that age.

I know i did, for sure.

So the next time i head home, it will be my orange box that i will look for and search the cards i once, and always will, treasure.

I imagine myself holding my Ho-oh card with Gold Berry attached to it, with five fire energy cards waiting for a Dive Bomb!

As for now, i'll be watching the third movie soon!

wc11 confesses his Pokemon dreams...

*This post is a special dedication to all Pokemon fans out there. Do comment your Pokemon moments. =)

Season 6, Episode 7: Come night, another side of me.

2011-04-08T09:26:00.005+08:00

Snapshot: Looking for that one star, in a starry night reflecting Earth Hour 2011.

* Not for minors (under the age of 18) for the first part of the post.

"There was a saying that we can shed light in the darkness but we can never stick darkness in the light. It tells that in every fight, in every combat, in every struggle, light triumphs over darkness, good overwhelm evil. " - A work in progress opening lines.

Finally, my friends stripped my club 'virginity'- it's funny how they labeled it. And time and time again, they asked me to go. At first, i couldn't because i had to rush to complete some tasks at hand. Then, there was so much time between then and the time to go for clubs, so i had no way of coming out from it. Completed everything, almost, and left to the clubs.

A little '6' or '9' imprinted on the back of my palm.

I'm surprised! In my mind, i thought clubs are dark, smoky, crowded, and all sorts negative. But when i was there, it had sufficient lighting and it wasn't as dark as i thought it to be. Not much crowd though, a Thursday night out. Loud, deafening music. The first place we went was Barroom.

I had beer. And the dance floor.

Enough with that, we moved to the next club. 2 clubs in one night! Zer0 had more crowd.

I had liquor. I danced. And i puked.

Yes, people. You read right. I puked out what i drank. Not drunk, but i can feel my head spinning and i required effort to walk straight. I used to wonder how a person can be drunk. Now, i sort of know it. I'm not the extreme case, thankfully, as in almost every minute, i was making sure of myself to not allow my subconscious mind to take over.

The mark still present after a night's sleep. Written ZER0.

You don't want to know how many times i tried to let it all out. Even when we were at McDs, the place i visited first was the toilet. Knocked out almost throughout my trip back uni. Went back to my room, off to bed.

I thought sleeping at 4, i would have woken up about 10. I woke up at 8.30, somehow, energized until before i'm about to leave for class.

Long story short, clubbing was indeed an interesting experience. My friend told me, "The first time i went clubbing, i drank a bottle, then puked. And drank again." I'm a first timer at this, and drinking needs practice. I wonder if i'll practice again anytime soon.

Thank you guys- for helping me to lose my club 'virginity'.

*****

I'm so used to writing double stories in one post. Why? My time line is all messed up. When i put something on hold, another new thing comes up, piling. Therefore, the only escape from this is to do this.

26 March 2011 was a date the world united to support and show care towards the Earth we live in. *Drastic change from the clubbing post, ain't it?*

The ELC was no different. Like last year, this year, we brought the Mass Gathering Earth Hour 2011 to greater heights, reaching out to more people to join in this effort. To anticipate this, we had also initiated a Facebook-less Day and i personally thank you for supporting this effort.

We met in the lecture hall and showed inspiring videos of Earth Hour, and we initiated our countdown to switch off the lights. Then, we lighted our candles and paraded to the Pavilion. There, together with everyone, we lighted up the symbolic '60' and had tons of photographs with it.

With Jay and Nabs, ELC alumni. Candles in the night.

My friends and i posing with the symbolic 60. Much effort was put in on the board to create this masterpiece.

My uni participated as well, switching off all the street lights. Back to basics, we used candle light to guide our way. By the time we regrouped in the lecture hall, it was about time to countdown for the lights to turn on

Thank you and congratulations to those came and survived. This year, it is to go beyond the 60 minutes. After the countdown, we had games for the audience and a special performance by the 'Flamin' Lips. It was entertaining, to say the least.

It was a memorable night, for sure, knowing we still care for the world we live in.

And that's not all. That night was the first time ever i had seen a shooting star! I was too overwhelmed by joy that i didn't have time to close my eyes and make a wish. Even if i had, i knew what i wanted to wish for already.

wc11 says "What say you?" on the dance floor, under the moonlight.

Season 6, Episode 6: Smiles on Saturday

2011-04-04T00:14:00.008+08:00

" Candy, Chicks, and Rock 'n' Roll. " - HOP movie tagline

Just to lay it down first, the 'virgin' club party was postponed until further notice- but i'm still worn out over the events that happened on that Saturday. I suppose there will always be a Saturday in every semester that i will somehow be spellbound and never want to come back uni. Last semester was Sitiawan. This semester was... *let the smiley Saturday story begin...*

Early on the 2nd of April, Saturday morning, i shared a technique i learned during my drama school years, the chain effect, with the rest of the team. My friend started to call another friend at 6.30am, and she then called another friend. And he then called another friend, until the phone-in-line returns to me about 7am. Somehow, i felt like i was back, living in those memories. Something to talk about, ain't so? Anyway, we met in the cafe at 7.15am, had breakfast together and a final briefing before we took off. You may be wondering what's all this fuss- waking up early, having breakfast, morning briefing.

Well, it was, after all, a Smiley Saturday! Not literally, the name of our project under the ELC is called so.

So we left in our cars to the nearby school. It's a project conducted in school to promote the use of English through activities and enhance listening and communication skills. The school of our choice was the SK Seri Tronoh.

Once there, we were divided into smaller groups, from Year One to Year Six. As a facilitator, i was assigned to group 1 of Year 5 students. There were 11 students in my group. We had an ice-breaking session to break the ice and get to know each other. We will be buddies for the next three hours. So, we had out first activity, the tongue-twister.

" Tie a knot, tie a tight, tight knot, tie a knot in a shape of a ... "

And the students, in a circle, will add on to the line in alphabetical order. The facilitators had to play along. And when it came to my turn, i was the last one with all the words, and eyes staring at me.

"Tie a knot, tie a tight, tight knot, tie a knot in a shape of an apple, ball, cat, dog, elephant, ferry, giraffe, house, iguana, jaguar, kangaroo, lamp, mango, nest, orange, pencil, queen, rabbit, sheep, tiger, umbrella, violin, window, x-ray, ..." *I still remember them now*

The next thing i asked them to do was to come up with a name for our group. We're later called 'Tiger Lightning'. Moving on to our next activity, we did Snap Dragon. Probably some of you may know how to fold this already. It's the one where you can fit your fingers into four boxes, ask your friends to choose a colour then you show them the short-listed numbers inside. The activity was to improve listening skills.

Finally, we had little sketches. Something like a charades, they had to act some 'present continuous phrases'. Somehow, this got them hyped up and active. I had to follow their lead then. Just before we left, we had our final activity together which is a sing-along. Not bad, i can feel the spirit in them!

A group photo of my team, in their funny faces. Nice meeting them.

Just before we bid farewell to the school, the facilitators took a group photo together.
I felt the project, 'Smiley Saturday' was truly a successful and enjoyable one!

Headed back to uni, exhausted. But that did not deter us from continuing on with our night escape. Even with the tiredness settling in and my headache verging on returning, we were energized at the thought of going to Ipoh. And the big group narrowed down to four, as we left uni at 6pm.

We couldn't get to Jusco at the time we estimated. We were not familiar with the directions to get there, following instincts more than signboards. But we were just in time for the movie we wanted to watch, Hop.

Hop is a new movie that celebrates the magic of Easter. It's a colourful, vibrant and entertaining movie. A good choice of escape from the stress as we had real good laughs at some scenes. There are some family drama revolving around the two main characters- one a man, another a bunny. It begins with a child seeing the Easter bunny on the night before Easter. Twenty years later, they grew up and the boy, now a man, Fred, is a slacker and does not plan to get a job. EB, the son of the elder rabbit, decided he did not want to become the Easter Bunny because of the tremendous weight on the shoulder. He runs away from the family and goes to Hollywood. He dreams of becoming a drum player. He accidentally meets with Fred. And their relationship experiences downs and ups until the end. Not revealing much to you.

It's like Alvin and the Chipmunks. It has a good story to accompany. Overall, Hop makes for a good family movie and if you're in to have a good laugh, this movie offers you enough dose to enjoy for the rest of the weekend.

After movie, we went for a brief shopping. By then, our stomachs were grumbling and we didn't know what to eat. We went out Jusco to De' Garden (if i spell it right) and hunt for something good to eat. Looking at the crowd in Paparich, we dined in.

Me and my dinner. The place was nice. The food was alright, nothing impressive. Probably it was a wrong choice of meal?

The place around De' Garden is beautiful at night, with lights and water effects. It was my first time there and i'm sure i liked the place. After dinner, we went for desserts in the shops in the area. We left slightly after 11pm to get back to uni- midnight was our limit.

A very Hollywood-boulevard feel as we stared up into the palm trees.

What a weekend!

*****

Not too long ago, i was the MC for the Chem-E-Car Competition held in my uni.

Somehow, i'm getting the hang of being an MC.

With the committees of Ceremony and Protocol.

wc smiles on the Saturday...

Season 6, Episode 5: Starry visit

2011-03-26T01:06:00.006+08:00

"What can you do when your good isn't good enough?" - Glee, Original Song

It has been so, so long since i updated my blog. Same excuse, busy. Sometimes, when i thought of blogging and have all the words set up in my mind, i log in here and lost all those words, ending up with nothing.

The usual. Tests. Tasks. And coming soon, a wave of assignments. So you might not see me soon after this again.

I shall end the serious stuff and move on to something more exciting. I grew a year older since the last post. Yes, i'm finally no longer in my teens. I'm already beginning with a number 2 in front. The birthday celebration will be posted later in conjunction, hopefully, with my 'virgin' club party- that's what my friends are labeling it.

Somehow, the 'exciting' part doesn't fit quite right. When i was younger, i thought of growing up fast and work. But now, i long to return to my childhood days and relive those playground times. If not, back to my primary or secondary school. My advise, enjoy yourself at your age. When you're young, do what young people do. Don't think of growing old fast. I always believe that a child possesses the most creativity and energy.

So, 20. What have i been doing with my life? Lately, like a mid-life crisis striking and haunting, i thought about the other great things that i could do. And what made me end up here, in this uni, for this course. Memories of all those choices and pathways after SPM came back, knocking to remind me of the main reason why i came here. I always imagine what if i didn't enter here. I will be with different people, different environment and probably, an entirely different me. I ain't getting any younger and often, i ponder to myself if i have been making and doing the most of my life to myself, the people around me and the world i live in. Somehow, there's an inside force calling me to do something bigger, something greater. But i just don't know what it is or how it is to be evolved.

To comfort myself, i always say that there is still time or later or next time. There will be a chance and all i need is to find the right time to seize it. What if the time is now? And what if i wait any longer, it slips away.

***

On the 18th of March, HOT and The Inspirer visited The Star headquarters and its hub in KL, and i can tell you this, it really was an eye opener. I've never entered The Star office in KL and i was looking forward to the visit. We left uni early to arrive on time.

As we entered, we were amazed by its design, especially the lobby/reception. Apparently, it was supposed to be a hotel but it didn't come together- and there was a Star Byte cafe. We were introduced to the person in charge of our visit and were showed around the gallery. Red.fm and Galaxie (and i can't remember the others) are by them too?

They brought us up into a room and introduced The Star to us- since i'm not a Star reader, this is good information. Then, we were introduced to Joshua, one of the journalists, who kindly answered several questions about writing news/reports and some personal background. They showed us their office. Since we were there in the morning, most of the journalists/reporters were out hunting information to complete their assignments. They showed us the photo gallery, other sections of the newspaper, and a fame filled room kinda thing. They were all football fans so club flags could be seen hung on their ceiling lights. I even met, in person, the artist of the only cartoon that i read in The Star, WC Kee 'Kee's World'. Somehow, i was overly excited!

Handing souvenirs and tokens of appreciation to the people of The Star in Menara Star.

Since it was a visit, done with the headquarters, we went for lunch around Bukit Jelutong. We were anticipating good meals or choices for better meals outside uni. Sadly, the place was rather like uni. And we had to settle for uni-like food.

A comic of the life in The Star bidding welcome in the Star Hub.

The Star Hub was really interesting. I didn't know that to make a newspaper, it has to go through many steps. The machines are large. Rolls and rolls of new paper. The platform reminded me of a ride in Universal Studios Singapore. The track looks like a roller-coaster track, moving up and down, turning at corners. Since no photography was allowed in the factory, you have to only imagine what i said.

Posing next to me is the layout of the hub.

Refreshments were served before we said our thank yous and goodbyes.

Somehow, i got motivated and inspired in this visit and hopefully, it will be channeled to greater use! wc11 enjoyed the Star visit tremendously!

Season 6, Episode 4: I'm Tangled...

2011-02-27T13:29:00.002+08:00

" And at last, I see the light..." - Tangled

I don't even know why am I blogging now. I should be away hitting the books for an upcoming test, reorganize my planner for imminent meetings- and brace for some criticisms, or busy filling in details for an application. I should be anywhere but here, in this world, blogging.

Probably this will be a site for me to vent my frustration- or provide a slight entertainment from all these stress!

Yes, I had a great weekend escape. Lots of food, lots of fun. But that's the past, coming back to the present is worrying, sometimes demanding. I applied for an exchange program since last semester and only lately was i informed to apply for a placement myself. That's not all, i need to do it fast. Extremely fast. Deadline is less than a week and i need my documents prepared! Where to go in all this rush? Minus the weekend, where office or bank are closed, i am left to solve the remaining parts of the application which does not require any of this sort.

Then i need to know my courses which are transferable, or exchangeable. Forget my uni internet line- it's not very convincing. Luckily, i managed to get home for the weekend and utilize a more stable connection. Rush! After all is said and done, and filling in where i can at the moment, i have to put it in their hands. I will try my best to submit where possible and leave it to them to decide. Finger's crossed, everything will be fine.

The next thing is the commitment issue. Lately, i'm torn in all angles- studies and responsibilities, home and uni, local and international, that sometimes, i don't even have enough time to breathe- exaggeration intended. But to say the least, sometimes i couldn't even have a meal without having these thoughts in mind or sleep without dreaming about these issues. No, i'm not complaining. No, i'm not giving up. Sometimes we just need to say things out so that we don't get caught up alone in all these stress. Whatever i am doing now, i believe, is that i will try to stay strong for whatever comes. I needed to. If i'm not, everything around me, and myself, will fall into pieces.

Recently, i watched Tangled and surprisingly, it's a winner! I went to watch with not much anticipation or expectation, but i was blown away by the end of the show. It's great to see that Disney's back with another great music piece. Since i'm running out of time, i won't be writing a synopsis or an elaborate comment. One thing i can say is this, if you have the chance to watch this, prepare to be mesmerized by its magical impact! It is, after all, a Disney movie.

wc11 will leave at this and is off to dash out the other notes on his planner!

Season 6, Episode 3: Dare to be different

2011-02-18T00:03:00.006+08:00

" Sing it for the world, sing it for the world! " - Sing, MCR.

Lately, i encountered several 'requests' tempting me to be different. Asking me to go outside my box, outside my comfort zone and take risk. Sometimes, i ponder to myself, have i not been daring enough to do something different? Have i not tried taking risks, facing challenges, overcoming obstacles? Have i changed enough for the people to see that i have changed?

It's not easy to answer these questions because the person involved is the person i see in front of the mirror. And to answer these questions is to look back, reflect, and find the answers. If i have not been pushing myself to my limit, daring to be different, i doubt if i could even be here. In uni. Juggling studies with responsibilities.

There's no need to try so hard- or sometimes, we're just trying so hard to prove to ourselves that we become not the person we know. The main point is that we know who we are, we know ourselves best. Life takes its course, taking us down a road filled with bumps and turns. And through that, we may be aware, or unaware, that it is teaching us a lesson, guiding us to handle the situation and testing us on an ungraded trial. We don't need to go around telling people we have changed. We don't need to find challenges because it will come to you. We don't need to dress differently, talk differently, act differently to highlight the external changes. We should dare to be different but not to the point where we lose our uniqueness and our true self because the moment we lose that in us, it is the time that we become common. When we know inside that we are different and we have changed, people will know. People can see.

And even if they don't, in time, they will come to see that we have changed.

One thing i know i am is that i am a planner. I plan most of my time. What i want to accomplish today, what i want to accomplish over the week, what i want to do later. The only problem is that it sometimes can become too rigid. Sometimes when i planned everything all so nicely, some unforeseen mistake comes to ruin the plan and causes the domino effect- all plans have to slowly reorganize. So the one thing that i need to work on now is flexibility. My plan is to be readily open for changes. We can plan, but that's the furthest we can go. We cannot control the future to be in place of the plan.

That's some serious piece of sharing. Switching topic, i'm still not done with my CNY posts. Second day of CNY in Melaka!

With all the cousins from mom side.

With the youngest aunt!

Playing cards is part of tradition.

So, try posting those questions to yourself. See how it comes out to be.

wc11.

Season 6, Episode 2: White Swan

2011-02-09T22:30:00.006+08:00

" I had the craziest dream last night about a girl who has turned into a swan, but her prince falls for the wrong girl and she kills herself. " - Black Swan

Initially, this post's title was to be named 'Black Swan' but because it is still CNY and we prefer not to deal with anything 'black', i switched it to 'white' instead. And naming 'white' doesn't really alter the purpose of the post either. It has, after all, both in one.

Yes, when i knew this movie the end of last year, i had made it a must to watch it the soonest i got it- and comment on it. The trailer was out. The interview session was published. It sounded dark. It looked dark. It felt dark. 'Black' itself tells something, but 'swan'? Something as graceful and elegant as a swan be 'dark'- and i don't mean the colour. Something as pure as a swan be overshadowed and overcast. Black Swan lives to my expectation, scoring above and beyond what i had in mind for a psychological thriller drama.

It has been a long time since i had my expectations in movies satisfied. It's always much anticipation which is later followed by utter disappointment after watching it. But Black Swan? No. And not only does it deliver, it has that afterthought, riveting yet disturbing at the same time. A story of double like 'Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde' and great element of rivalry last seen in 'The Prestige'. Thrilling directing, over-the-edge acting. Definitely the best Natalie P's performance- no wonder a Globe was for her. And what more, this story revolves around the Swan Lake- every ballerina's dream performance, an ideal and intriguing setting for the movie to play on.

Natalie P plays Nina, the lady who has set her eyes on becoming the Swan Queen and let nobody else take her role in the performance. She was seen as the perfect, ideal white swan. But the producer wondered her capability to dance the black swan- the evil swan who steals the love of white swan that she needed to break her spell. The producer looked towards Lily, a suitable candidate to play black swan. Nina becomes paranoid of her role of every little detail that tried to threaten it and guarded it with all her heart- even putting herself in danger. A struggle on all levels- within herself and with external pressures to deliver the best Swan Queen. Soon *spoiler* instead of playing the black swan, Nina became the black swan- evil, wicked, dark, the other side of human being.

Despite some explicit scenes, this movie is a real winner! It has a story of purity and darkness intertwined in a highly competitive ballet performance, Swan Lake, and that shows the price of perfection! Watch it, give it some thought and the real essence of the movie prevails, slowly and silently to yourself.

Enough with Black Swan, things in uni are getting back on the wheel, rolling, accelerating. Dates of quizzes, tests, assignment dues, meeting dates, etc start to fill the pages of my planner. I had to have a planner, otherwise, everything gets jumbled up! Lectures are fine- some more interesting than the other. We can't always have fun lectures, some tends to be dry.

Helping my friend to pump her car tyre in this. I liked this picture. It's as if i'm promoting for The Chronicler, or the car, or both.

On the first day of CNY

In red on the new year's day!

Red and yellow lions make great combination! I used to fancy dancing lions when i was a kid. my mum said i was a good dancer.

The surprise this CNY- three lions!

My grandpa receiving the lion's present.

New Year's day was great. Tiring, but great. As i have said, tire ourselves once in a year and the return is always fulfilling.

wc11 dances the lion.

" I was perfect. " - Black Swan

Season 6, Episode 1: A grandstand entrance...

2011-01-31T11:24:00.005+08:00

Snapshot: In an elevator from ground floor to the third floor, we fitted ourselves into this photograph! Don't you think we look like fishes fighting for food at the lower part of the photo?

" Because i have a voice!
... yes, you do. " - The King's Speech

Finally, a time for me to blog about my first week- in the midst of all the CNY rush! I can't do it in uni, not that i didn't have time. I have plenty of time that i directed my energy to finalize some event materials, club responsibilities and flipped through some notes. Movies became my companion, finishing most award-inspired movies like 127 Hours, RED and The King's Speech- in which Colin F won for best actor in the Golden Globes. Black Swan is next.

It was because the Internet connection in my uni was terrible. Saying terrible is already an understatement. It was annoying, to the point that i felt like ripping the LAN cable out- though not related, and smash my laptop. The connection is strong but no Internet service. Proxy problem.

New semester, new settings. Staying in Village 5, the claimed nicest village among the rest, my room has definitely a grandstand view- in front of the futsal court! Sometimes, we could hear monkeys singing in the nearby forest. Lots of lush greenery. Fresh air. Far from main gate, closer to lecture halls.

My side of the room. Outside the window are the futsal courts.

The timetable this semester is quite nice- nice meaning no lectures set on Fridays. Lecturers- a little too soon to decide. Usually, it takes time to get to know the lecturers, their styles of teaching, that when the new semester comes, the cycle sets back to start, all over again. One thing for sure, this semester is going to be interesting- i can feel it coming already!

Expressive faces for the new start!

Since CNY falls on Thursday, we applied leave for the three days prior. The best part of CNY is the preparation. Although it is tiring, it's tiring once in a year. The joy and satisfaction entailing the tiresome set up is always rewarding.

The Pavilion KL has huge lion heads at the entrance! It is a sight to behold and if you are there, don't forget to beat all four of the drums- each for different meaning: health, wealth, prosperity and peace.

Posing for the New Year! Frankly, the entrance of the mall looks more stunning compared to the concourse. Nevertheless, the CNY breeze was felt!

'Grandstand' seats in the mall. Wonder what they are looking at?

The CNY crowd-pleaser, the lion dance! *claps claps*

On Tuesday night, eve of new year eve, a dinner was held for villagers in my kampung. Really good food with great performances especially the martial arts and the lion dance. It was a joy to watch the father and son dancing the lion- son in the head and father as the supportive tail. Though the dinner may verge on being political, being there surely amplified the festivity feeling.

After days of gloomy, cloudy weather, hopefully the days will turn better with the New Year approaching! Curtains up, lanterns fixed, 'lo kam' prepared, wc11 anticipates the hop into the new year!

Map of the Invisible World & 127 Hours

2011-01-25T15:08:00.003+08:00

" Everything is, just comes together. It's me. I chose this. I chose all this. This rock... this rock has been waiting for me my entire life. It's entirely life, ever since it was a bit of meteorite a million, billion years ago. In space, it's been waiting to come here. Right, right here. I've been moving towards it my entire life. The minute i was born, every breath that i've taken, every action has been leading me to this crack on the out surface. " - Aron R, 127 Hours.

I want to like the book, but I can’t. Where do I start? Alright, first and foremost, reading the back of Map of the Invisible World, I thought the main stars of this book are Adam and Johan. After all, it’s a story about two brothers separated at an early age of childhood, struggling to face their fears to walk down their memory lanes in an attempt to find one another. Though they still remain the main- or should I say idea, characters, I felt Margaret stole their spotlight. I thought I could feel their fears, feel their separation, feel their anger, or feel their sympathy. I was taken by surprise. I thought I could have a connection to Adam, if not Johan, but I felt neither to the both of them. Instead, I was taken into memories of Margaret more than Adam, and Johan’s story was pretty much said in a passing. But on the bright side, Margaret pushes the story forward. Without her, there will be no Karl, no Bill, no Din, and no Z. And no story.

The book begins with Karl, Adam’s foster father, mistakenly captured by the army. Adam then goes to find for Margaret in hope that she can help regain his father. Margaret who teaches in an institution, with her own perspective to life and country, is forced to look back into her history- her history with Karl. She tries her best, contacting her friends and pulling some strings to get Karl back. Din was Margaret’s friend. However, as the story unfolds, he has hidden agendas and drags oblivious Adam with him. In desperation and despair, lost and insecurity, Adam agrees to Din because he convinces him that he can help get his father back. To Adam, reuniting with his father is the only thing he wants and needs.

On the other side of the land, Malaysia, we see the struggle Johan faces as an adopted child in a wealthy family. He has a younger sister and brother, and though he may be rebellious at times, he loves them. He knows he has another younger brother but that memory of him seems vague, likewise for Adam. He then shares his story of how he became part of this family and not with Adam.

In the orphanage, Adam and Johan dreamed of the sea. Though they stayed near the coast where sounds of waves breaking could be heard, they had never seen the sea, only allowing imagination of their minds to the colour, beauty and the sand and water. They went the extra mile to fulfill their dream, on the night before they were separated. I felt this part of the story extraordinarily meaningful.

The book provides a glimpse into the life in Indonesia many years back through Adam and Malaysia was the setting around Johan’s life. Tash Aw writes quite fascinatingly, with effective uses of words, and has amiable skills in describing a scene. Alas, too detailed description can sometimes be dull and lengthy on my personal thought.

The one part I see action in this book was when Adam was convinced by Din, with evil intentions, to execute his plan. Other than that, this is pure literature, pure drama. The climax was rather predictable with characters lacking intensity in portraying it and the book doesn’t really mention the end to Adam and Johan’s attempt at reunion. Margaret, once again, closed the book.

Probably I was expecting more from Map of the Invisible World knowing that Tash Aw won for ‘The Harmony Silk Factory’. This book has its moments but it is not my favourite. It has something missing. I wouldn’t put this in par with ‘To Kill A Mockingbird’ or ‘The Kite Runner’ but to give it some credits, Tash Aw has great writing skills. I just felt it lacked on character.

Moving on to 127 Hours, a movie made for awards by Danny B, i am, again, not extremely thrilled after watching the movie. Perhaps my expectations were raised so high that what i had in mind of the movie is not entirely what i watched. With that being said and speaking from another angle, James Franco is a force to be with. 127 Hours felt much like a one-man show, and James F did it so effortlessly- no pun intended. No wonder he has been nominated at the award season going on now. He plays a mountain climber-cum-canyoneer and after guiding two girls to their location, he goes off to his destination. Unfortunately, while going down the canyon, he gets trapped with a rock pressing down on his hand- and throughout the approximately next hour, he struggles to escape the trap using only his other hand!

Like 'The Hurt Locker' and 'Paranormal Activity', this movie requires patience as its drama unfolds slowly on his shoulder. He tries all-sorts to escape, and when in despair, he tries to get himself together and not go crazy. For 127 hours, day and night, with dreams and hallucination, he forces his way out in anyway he imagined possible.

'Slumdog Millionaire' was amazing and if i hadn't raised my expectations on 127 Hours, i would enjoy it much more.

wc11 read a book over the sem break and is currently watching award movies. Season 6 is about to begin here!

Can't wait to hop in the Year of the Rabbit, at Jusco!

Passage of time: My toy story...

2011-01-15T23:40:00.003+08:00

" You can never get bored with the toys you have. "

When i was a kid, i used to own lots of toys. Lego. Cars. Planes. Hero figurines. Animals. Cards- among those that i can still remember fondly in my mind. Every time after we finished playing them, we placed them back inside plastic bags, put those filled bags into a box, and carry the box upstairs where we were disciplined to keep them. Sometimes, we skipped the plastic bag and straight put them in boxes. *being mischievous* . And when we want to play them, we would just pour them out from the boxes, like pouring water, scattering the pieces onto the floor where we would then pick up and play with them. Childhood fun, that is, when we allowed imagination to take the better of us.

Sadly, growing up, we tend to play less with the toys that accompanied us through childhood and lose the dreams and imaginations. We may occasionally see them, then go, 'Eh, that's what i used to play with', then you start playing with it- when nostalgia overwhelms. But when that joy wears out, not long after the play due to other more 'important' matters in adolescence or adulthood, we replace them where we found them and say, 'Next time, next time'.

Thankfully, i'm not that person- and if you may know, watching Toy Story 3 really touched my heart especially the part when Andy parts with his toys. For many years, my toys have been providing me with comfort, a sense of security and a feeling of togetherness. And deciding to give them away, or worst to throw them, may not come easy. They carry sentimental values, each toy bearing an everlasting memory. I don't own some toys to myself, we share them. And that makes it even more painful as looking back at the toys now, images of playing them together, laughing, sometimes quarreling, with brothers and sister sort of mould us into who we are today.

So, like i said, i had faced my 'toy story' moment too. Clearing the upstairs, the habitat for my toys to live as they slowly, silently slipped away from my life, spring cleaning revived them all! Searching through the boxes that collected dust and cockroaches over the years, i found some childhood treasures of mine. Of course, it was instant teleportation to being a kid again.

A huge fan of the construction toy, Lego, now and forever! Looking forward to the opening of Legoland in Malaysia. Honestly, which robot looks better - the left or the right?

Batman! Look at the cape- i don't think you can get to find such type in the market today. And some creature below that i can't remember its name, but remembered playing with.

Building roads, trees, placing animals. Interesting, don't they?

I decided- keep them! Discard nothing of these into the throw pile, or give away pile, these toys are too precious. It's just amazing! No matter how old you may be, when you look back at the toys you played with once, you forget about the world and become a child again. Whether it's your favourite toy, your favourite past time, you favourite company or just you being yourself, toys like pets make good companion. You return to the world of toys, you return to the world of imagination. And i always believe that the mind of an innocent child is the true playground of imagination.

I hope this post of mine makes you want to dig into your pile of old stuffs and hopefully, like me too, you can find treasures of toys you once loved- hugged day and night, and couldn't sleep without! wc11 shares his toy story...

*'Passage of time' is another new series that i'm initiating that indicates going back in time.

Makeover. Bolder. Braver.

2011-01-11T23:12:00.005+08:00

" Nothing in life is certain. You just have to surrender to chance and let life take you where it wants to. If you do that, you'll probably end up exactly where you dreamed you would. "
- Map of the Invisible World, Tash Aw

Before i start, how do you like the new look? Seriously, i'm wanting to hear some feedback from you whether you like it or despise it, or if you're in between. Honestly, and not being biased to myself, i like the new look- it's got edge, making it bolder and braver!

As the new year came, i thought, changes to the blog must be made. If you don't get tired of looking at the same layout, i know i would. And before i feel that distaste which may eventually lead to the desire to ditch this blog entirely, why not i renovate this blog and bring it back to life. Because frankly, i haven't been posting much in my blog and even if there are, they are huge events that i felt passionate to share with you and of course, the world. Blame it on my poor time management and the evil whispers of procrastination. But not to worry, with the rejuvenation of this blog, i vow to continue to serve you sizzling updates of my life ranging from food to books to movies to travel to life in campus- i'm proud to have 5 seasons aired and more to come, and to anything else that adds spice to life!

Buckle up for a ride of adventure!

Having been a member of the blogosphere for almost three years, with more than 100 posts to date, you may wonder why i chose 'Pitch Dark' as the blog title. And why not maintain the same ole 'Writing Life'. Simple. Change. 'Writing Life: Life is a story, and I'm writing mine' has a simple, direct, clear-cut meaning. Now, it reads 'Pitch Dark: Finding fireworks. Finding the spark within.' It is not crystal clear to understand what this title means (it has a mysterious tune to it) and thus takes you deeper to fully grasp the meaning of the words i'm trying to convey. No doubt, different people may have different interpretations of this title. In a nutshell, mine says hope, and search ourselves to bring out the best in us. We may not know the talents we possess and sometimes, we need to find that spark to propel us forward. The spark lights the firework. Fireworks bring power, strength and valour. And with these, we can break darkness, eventually shedding light and colouring our lives.

The '7 Wonders' in the sidebar have also been updated and i promise to update them as often as possible.

wc11 hereby officiates the new look of this blog on the auspicious date, a date to remember- 11/1/11!

*PS: Season 5 rating is out, 3.9x/4.0. Relieved and somehow elated. I'm not perfect, but really, who is?

Countdown in the clouds... 2011!

2011-01-02T13:00:00.000+08:00

" Faith makes all things possible,
Love makes all things beautiful... "
- part of a New Year message

To usher in the new year this time, i thought of making it a special, dear one. After all, it's the end of the decade- ten years after the millennium, and the coming of the end to my teenage years. I remembered during the millennium countdown, we were at Bintang Walk area and it was jam-packed! It was people-touch-people and more of a people-see-people than people-see-celebration! With not much room to walk, we waited at a nearby escalator until the clock hit 12 midnight and the fireworks were released, illuminating the night sky followed by thundering cheers of 'New Year'! Although with all the sweaty people around and the tiring wait, it was this type of countdown that is most memorable and truly, i enjoyed it tremendously along with such anticipating and loud crowd.

As i said, a special and dear one is what i wanted to experience again. And yes, what more can it be different than a new year's countdown at the highlands! It wasn't much planned ahead. Decision made in the morning and we were off to Berjaya Hills (previously known as Bukit Tinggi) later in the afternoon. We were aware of the gala dinner up at Colmar Tropicale but unfortunately, the price per person blew our budget. Nevertheless, it didn't stop us from going there to cheer together for the new year.

This looks a bit out-of-place. I should have done this in Universal Studios instead. But well, it's the new year celebration! While waiting for the countdown, we had dinner and lingered around the place.

Colmar Tropicale's architecture is much under the French influence and this is me under the bridge.

Me against the swan!

I might be able to fit in this armour, don't you think?

Three more hours to countdown!

We waited....

And waited...

And waited...

Finally, it's here...

2011 !!!

That's when the new year messages started to flood the inbox of my phone. Some really flowery ones are nice to read and re-read, and some are just funny like how we are approaching closer to the end of the world in 2012, and advanced wishes to the Chinese's rabbit year.

Leaving 2010, it surely felt nostalgic. Lots of things happened in one year. Lessons to learn, knowledge to gain, and experiences to experience. Have you written your new year's resolutions? I haven't. But soon, i will, after i have found my 2010's resolutions dug deep inside the piles of papers in my cupboard to see which one to knock of the list and which one to re-list and update in the latest one.

What will the new year promises? I can't read the future but i'm sure it'll be just as amazing as we had. But above all the action and adventure are good health and continued happiness that i pray for. wc10, for the last time, wishes a Happy New Year 2011 to the world!

" May the journey of your life be fragrant,
And your heart be happy with love... "
- part of a New Year message.

A new chapter begins...

Merry X'mas !!!!

2010-12-23T21:16:00.001+08:00

Snapshot: Lights this X'Mas...

" Merry Christmas "

It's here! The festive season! Shopping for Christmas gifts, shopping for Chinese New Year clothes since the sales are on; great makan with family and friends; splendid walks in malls, dazzled by the bells and decorated trees; highly anticipated exchange of gifts and caroling; house visits!

I'm very pleased to inform you that this is the fourth installment of the 'Merry X'mas' series. Throughout the month of December, when the decorations are up and ready to impress, the camera follows me everywhere i go.

Inside Gurney Plaza, Penang.

Greeting guests at the entrance of Gurney Plaza. Purple white Christmas seems to be the thing now! Like the colour combination!

Pit stop of all the makan in Village Mall, Sg Petani.

Notice the skin colour contrast? After OBML, shopped at Tropicana City Mall, KL.

I'll save Narnia for other plans. Took this picture at Wangsa Walk Mall, KL before the movie.

White! Jusco Setiawangsa, AU is pretty nice.

A very much needed change from their huge tree, KLCC presents beautifully in purple white. Don't forget to take pictures with Santa on stage!

At least there is the Christmas feel in Plaza Angsana, Johor Baru- although it's small.

Well lit tree with ornaments at my aunt's home in Melaka.

Visited the Portuguese Settlement in Melaka the second time. Crowded too. It's rather similar to last year's decoration.

Still, enjoyed feasting the eyes on beautifully lit houses!

Like the full moon. Like the big snowman. Like the sleigh.

Bright light!

Interesting... can you find its eyes and mouth? They open and close.

Great Eastern Mall, GEM appears as simple but elegant in golden Christmas-y combo!

Nice purple-white deco at Aeon Bukit Tinggi, Klang.

In the globe, an adorable birdie and a tree. Sunway Pyramid deco never fails to uplift the spirit!

I like this collection, and my previous ones, and i hope you enjoy them too. wc10 wishes you Merry Christmas and have a good time!

Elephant Escape!

2010-12-16T19:49:00.000+08:00

" Fat is Beautiful " - Print on souvenir- shirt

The last time i was there, no one was there. Only remains of human activities and elephants, having their tea break, welcomed us. It was after three. Blame it on the lack of homework.

This time, everything was right. Timing. Weather.

If you're wondering whats with these elephants, or the timing, or the weather i mentioned, it's the one day escape to Kuala Gandah Elephant Sanctuary i'm talking about. I knew this place from our Geography lessons and read several articles relating to these huge mammals in this well kept habitat.

Route info: It's a 100 km drive from KL towards Kuantan (using the Karak highway). Taking the exit at Lanchang, turn right after the toll and follow the road signs leading to the Sanctuary. The road passes through kampung areas with several bends along the way.

Upon arrival, we had to register at the office to receive our stickers. No fees applied, but donations are utmost appreciated. The funds will be used either to aid in financial support of the transferring process of the wild elephants or the development of the sanctuary, and it is the donor that decides which option to select for the money donated.

I was much anticipating this trip because i enjoy being around animals. And whatmore knowing the activities lined up for visitors at the sanctuary excited me. From afar, the elephants look cute and adorable. When i got closer to them, i could see their fur and felt their rough, gritty texture of their skin. And they were big and strong.

With the elephant.

It wasn't my first time seeing elephants, just to clarify, but it is not everyday you get to see this huge creatures. And that makes this trip a rarity. The first activity was feeding the elephants. There were peanuts sold to us to be fed to the smaller, baby elephants. For the older ones, slices of papayas, bananas and cucumbers were basket-ed for us to feed the elephants. Some visitors took the bananas and stuck them in the elephants' trunk- two at a time!

The next activity gave us the chance to ride on the elephants. The elephant we rode was the oldest in the sanctuary- 36 years old. All elephants in the sanctuary were Asian elephants. Once we were up and it started to move, it was fast and the ride was bumpy. Nevertheless, i felt powerful being on the elephant- like an emperor.

On the elephant!

Belittled by them. Wouldn't it be great if an elephant could be my pet to bring me around?

The last activity was bathing with the elephants. Since i knew about this activity and that i will get wet in the river, i brought an extra pair of clothes. You have to when you go there because this is, undeniably, the best among the three. I didn't know what was going to happen to us- i thought all we were about to do was go into the river and splash around with the elephants. It wasn't. We got on an elephant and on the count of three, the elephant dropped us into the river.

Like a rollercoaster drop.

Into the water.

It was thrilling and when we were in the water, i did what i thought we will be doing- splashing around with the elephants!

Splashing, or bathing!

There's no need to worry in finding a place to change your clothes. The washrooms provided were pleasant. Seriously, it beats other public toilet! There are shower rooms in case you need to rinse off.

Leaving the place, saying goodbye to the elephants, i realized one thing- that we have lots here to discover. The sanctuary is a beautiful place. The garden is well kept, upgrading works are underway, facilities are organized, activities are punctual (activities start from 1.30pm and ends at 3pm so be sure to be there early to not miss out on the fun) and the elephants habitat, now home, surely looks promising. I recommend this place if you like elephants or just looking to have some fun for a day trip. Note, only 120 stickers are given per day to limit the crowd.

I don't mind going back there in the future. wc10 met the elephants!

Incredible OBML PET 8

2010-12-12T21:41:00.000+08:00

Snapshot: Group shot before our transformations, inside out.

" To Serve, To Strive, And Not To Yield " - Outward Bound Malaysia, Lumut motto

* Note: More pictures will be added.

If there is one word to describe my entire experience in OBML, it would be 'Incredible!' - with the exclamation mark. When i first got to know that i was selected to be in the first batch, the first thing that came to my mind was excitement. I somehow got an idea of what we will be doing- kayak for more than six hours from the senior's experience. The thought may be frightening but i was eager and all pumped up for the kayak. I was ready for the challenge as somehow, i grew to like extreme sports.

I went to OBML with several objectives. One of them is to meet new people and have fun together. Without a doubt, this was achieved, far beyond expected. I made new friends and also strengthened old ones. Another was to break down the barriers we built of ourselves. Going to OBML, i was prepared to push myself to the limits, physically and mentally. Once again, ticked!

I don't plan to go into every detail of the activities or chronologically fill you in. Instead, i will give you an overview and my perspective of my experience in OBML.

The course that me and my other comrades undertook was the 7 days leadership course. We were divided into groups called 'watch'. I was in Kinabalu Watch. And for the rest of the six days, the members of this watch became my family. Before starting, we had to hand in our handphones, electronic devices and food or drinks to our instructor and they were locked up, sealed and buried in a chest kept by our instructor.

Our instructor was Mr Taufik, and he is one amazing instructor! Fun to be with and great guidance from him. Thank you Mr T for everything.

We were taught the various knots- fisherman and clawfish to name a few, and the parts of a whaler. What is a whaler, you may ask. It's the boat the Vikings used to hunt whales, powered by human rowing. Fortunately for us, the whalers here came with sails to assemble onto. With the wind, sailing moves the boat faster.

This is a great opportunity. How many of us have the chance to see and whatnot touch a whaler? It's not like we can find a whaler in the city or in any beach resorts. And to learn the parts like the bow, stern, port side, starport side, rowlocks, oars, rudder, main sail... Each name has its meaning. For your information, the parts are heavy!

On the whaler, working as one to reach our goal! *dip, pull, out*

Our goal was to reach the checkpoint at the bridge. It was a long, tiring journey of sailing and rowing that took us nearly 5 hours! Despite the aching muscles, when our instructor declared our victory, i was overwhelmed by a sense of accomplishment and i was beyond overjoyed. This meant something to me, that we as a team, had reached our goal together. And the point here is 'together'.

Camping in the wild was not my forte. In fact, it was not something i do regularly. The last time i camped in the wild was years back. We had to find our own firewood to make fire, cooked our own dinner from the canned foods, used 360 toilets, slept in mosquitoes infested grounds, bathed with well water... Talking about dinner, our rice was not fully cooked yet we ate them and we had our meals in the dark. Shined the food at one time and gobbled them down the next. There wasn't much to complain- we were there to practice putting ourselves outside our comfort zone. It wasn't much of us against nature but more of us being one with nature!

" I got the OB spirit, up in my head,
deep in my heart, down in my knees.
I got the OB spirit, all over me,
all over me today eh... eh... " - OB Spirit song

No lie! Kayaked for seven hours! It was exhausting. Before we had our kayak expedition, we were trained to use the kayak and had capsize drills, one on shallow waters and another deeper into the sea. It was scary at first, purposely capsizing in the middle of the ocean but we had to do so that we can be well prepared with the emergency rescue steps for there is to be a real capsize incident during the expedition. My partner and i were the first to go, turned over and waited for help. I think i kicked a jelly fish. I'm not sure what it was but it was soft and bubbly. I felt it and i immediately swam away from it. No way was i to get stung by jelly fish during my much-looked-forward expedition!

By the way, don't underestimate the weight of the kayak!

Kayaked around Pangkor Island and rested for lunch at Teluk Man, welcomed by untamed monkeys. After lunch, i rested, listening to the hypnotic crashing of the waves. But time was not on our side and we had to leave as soon as possible. We had to brace the sea and its opposing current. It was a challenge to push ourselves out from the bay we had our lunch. Continued kayaking, avoiding larger ships in sea water and battling sea-sickness. It was kayaking and kayaking non-stop because even if we stop for a minute, the current will drift us off course. So, it's either we take turns with our partner to rest or say goodbye to the rest of the expedition-mates.

When we saw our target, we were motivated and fueled to reach it. Like the whaler, i was overwhelmed with the sense of accomplishment. A Eureka! moment. The feeling was inexpressible in words and no matter what adjective i use now, the only thing i can say is that it was a feeling i will never forget in my life! And there is no way for you to know how it felt unless you experience it yourself first hand.

The final night was the BBQ dinner, OBML style. I was the emcee of the night. Dinner was good and entertaining performances by all watches entailed. On the night, i was having mixed emotions. Happy as it was coming to an end. And sad as it was coming to the end. I sung the OB Spirit song with all my heart and Auld Lang Syne wholeheartedly. The night was truly memorable.

Azza and I hosting the BBQ night.

We met our instructor the final morning in OB base and had closing speeches from all members. It was teary and heartwarming, after we had grown closer and bonded as a team. We were awarded the pin of course completion and i could not utter how proud i was of myself. I came with my personal objectives and left the place feeling enriched and empowered for the future undertakings. I believe each and everyone of us that stepped into the OB base left with a new, reviewed self.

Posing proud with our certs; meet Denson. In Facebook, some comments were on how tanned we'd become.

Smiles of success on Karen and i.

Going into OB, i learnt aplenty of myself and gained knowledge and experience. Seven days may not seem like a sufficient time to change a person but trust me, it has instilled a strong foundation for change to start within the person. It may be written on the certificate a leadership course but what i learned most from this is teamwork and communication skills. Without these two essentials, there is no way we can reach Pantai Shawal/Kampung Kuala Sempit (whaler and kayak goals) and surely, there is no way we can survive in the wild. We work as a team and we succeed together as a team.

To my friends who are going there soon, i wish you all the best. And i hope you enjoy it the way i enjoyed it.

" We had joy, we had fun, we had suffered in the Sun,
But the seas and the tides, had taught us more about life. "

To OBML, raise our glasses and cheers! wc10&OBML, and don't be shocked if you can't recognize him...

Season 5, Episode 11: What is to come?

2010-12-04T07:40:00.000+08:00

" There is nothing stronger than the heart of a volunteer. " - Pearl Harbour

Oh yeah, my exams are over for this sem!- and i'm blogging live from Kedah. About the papers, i don't plan to comment much on them. Some proved real challenge, some were unavoidable blankness in the brain. But the highlight here is my effort and i always believe in trying my best. So whatever the outcome may be, i won't regret.

Holidays? Yes! It started the moment i dropped my pen from writing the last full-stop on my exam answer booklet. And i waited obediently for instructions to leave the hall to breathe in the air of temporary freedom!

Do you have this feeling, that before the exams, you know what you want to do with your time after exams but when the time comes, you just can't start? I sort of have this, though it has only been a few days of holidays. On the bright side, i'm beginning to rewrite the list mentally and turn each of them into reality.

It starts with Outward Bound School activity this weekend, for a week. Then, it's the festive season and celebration.

I just watched Pearl Harbour and i realized on thing- Michael Bay and James Cameron has pretty much something in common. From my FB wall, 'James C has Titanic, Michael B has Pearl Harbour. James C has Alien, Michael B has Armageddon. James C has Avatar, Michael B has Transformers'. Do you see what i see? Perhaps, great minds think alike.

There is a scene in the movie that inspires me. And it has to do with the quote at the start of this post. Based on the movie (as some facts are not consistent to reality), Pearl Harbour was attacked at dawn by the Japanese, unready and unprepared for what is to destroy the entire US Army at Pearl Harbour. Thousands of lives were killed. And as war was declared, the US sent their best fighter pilots on a top secret mission. Top secret mission, as said by Rafe, is a medal that is awarded to them but received by their family members. Therefore, it has to be courage from within themselves that they need to fulfill the mission. Probably i was disturbed by the images of bombs and gunfire in Pearl Harbour, such that it made me think that if i were in their shoes, i will do the same thing for my loved ones.

I watched Pearl Harbour back when i was a kid, now; i can understand the show better. Just like Edward Scissorshand. It has an intriguing story and Tim Burton and Johnny Depp duo really made this a winner.

Talking about volunteering, i have some in mind. I'll be completing my zoo time at Zoo Negara. It's a way i can get close to animals, sometimes exotic ones! Then, i read about this food-donation thing in Imbi that sparked my interest. Probably, i'll work on that too.

Movies list- i can't wait to watch Narnia! Music- time to wrap it up, 2010 and vote. X'mas post- i really enjoy this, going places and snapping photographs of their Christmas decor. Patiently wait for them to be ready. Writing and reading- a few keep on swirling in my mind. Action/adventure- to find.

There's more to discover this holiday. I can already hear Christmas bells... wc10 makes it 11 this season. And will be back for more in Season 6- time flies!

Season 5, Episode 10: Live it up!

2010-11-12T10:49:00.000+08:00

Snapshot: Emcee-ing UDCN!

" You've only got one life,
one life to live.
I wanna give it everything i got,
who knows, this might be it for us. " - Live it up, Lee Dewyze

Study week this time is about two weeks as my first paper isn't on the first day of the exams. In a way, it's good because we think that we've got more time to revise, practice exercises and look through past year papers. But the unforgiving fact is that it also makes us, somewhat, lazy. Holidays are what we look forward to. And too long a gap before it makes us restless, sometimes uninterested. Nevertheless, we have to stay focus as the battle is not over yet- it hasn't even begun!

Deepavali was good, as always. Pleasing my tummy can't get any better with the prawn sambal, tosai rumah (home tosai), idli, mutton curry and of course, the all-time favourite, muruku! She makes the best and talking about it now do make my mouth water. During the house visit, we wondered how many years we have been visiting the family. And as it blew me off, bewildered and bemused, we have known the family even before i was born. And that means, it's been more than 19 years! Of all the years of spices and flavours, we have created a bond of friendship that, to say the least, turn others envious.

Being home during the study weeks also means a war against the TV. It's not easy; a daunting task as the TV is really tempting. Pressing any button possible to switch off my study-mode. There are lots of good shows airing. Great Migrations, The Amazing Race(s), Top Chef(s), The Biggest Loser(s), Step Up & Dance, Got to Dance, MasterChef, Next Top Model(s), CSI(s), Ghost Whisperer, to name a few. And with Hallmark becoming Diva, weeknight movies await. Then there is the Star World uplift. Frankly, i don't really like the new logo. But surely, they have got good songs in every video that they made.

" I believe, that in time my heart will heal again,
And i believe, that in time my heart will feel again. " - Feel Again, Taio Cruz

When i watch those reality shows, it made me want to learn them, and soon master them. Cooking, food actually, is one of my passion. Dancing is something i've yet to try. Travelling other countries, learning their culture continues to amaze me. Forensic sciences and paranormal events seem thrilling. And Ghost Whisperer, to be honest, never fails for me to feel touched at the end of each episode- a rarity in current TV series.

But it's alright, i'm quite happy doing Petroleum Engineering. I can also get back to my passion after this, one step at a time. But one thing guaranteed is that i have a list, a long list, of my must-do things before i leave this place. I'll like to keep that confidential and if you follow my blog, then you'll see it emerging one at a time.

Focusing on the mud inside and observing the readings through a small scale above the multi-rate viscometer.

I like this picture. Gives me the chills of Heroes-Inception-Top Models look.

With some of the Dean list recipients on the award day. *Stress, stress*

Got new songs! Remember Lee Dewyze from AI? Well, if you don't, it's ok as i thought Crystal should have won by a small margin. BUT Dewyze's single Live It Up proves his element and he has substance, defying my AI choice. I thought his best is Hallelujah when in AI, and i still think it is, but try listing to his new single. I thought this suits him better than his winning song, Beautiful Day.

Then there is Taio Cruz's Feel Again. I heard this song in Star World and the video clip was amazing. I liked how they used the shows (Grey's Anatomy, etc) combined with the song. The first two lines are the greatest part of the song.

Bon Jovi is back with What Do You Got?. It has a sad, emotional tune to it. One of my favourites from him, relatively to You Want To Make A Memory. Still going strong, making great music...

This is not really a new song but it has shown me that Secondhand Serenade can sing. I didn't like Fall For You much, but Something More surely has something more and i like the melody. It has that ghastly feeling, something One Republic has too! The new ones are not bad- Distance, Stay Away and You And I.

As Dewyze sang it, we've only got one life to live and give it our best. For now, it's time to return to books! Til then wc10 sings...

" What do you got, if you ain't got love? " - What Do You Got? Bon Jovi

Season 5, Episode 9: Love is in the Air!

2010-11-04T23:12:00.000+08:00

Snapshot: Hiding behind the banner of The Chronicler: Love Is In The Air!

" The Chronicler ... "

Oh, yes! Final week of lecture is over and now comes the study week. It's study week but to some, me included, part of it is a pre-holiday! And when it's pre-holiday, i'm off back to KL and what more, it's Deepavali!

But that's not for this post yet; lets recap the final week...

As usual, everything piles up nearing the end of the semester. Piling up, i mean, tests, assignments and reports. Yes, i had two tests in the final week and both proved real challenge. Time was limited and i can only hope for the best based on what i had done. And reports and assignments to be completed so that i can leave back to KL without bringing them home.

And event management and club obligations to finalize. The final event this semester from our beloved ELC was The Chronicler: Love Is In The Air. It was a night to remember, and The Chronicler will always be in my blood. It is an effort we had initiated and i believe that people can recognize The Chronicler with ELC and has ELC signature all over it. Either way, i'm part of making history!

The night was fun-filled with performances by ELC singing team, Flamin' Lips and a debut solo performance of my own, Falling Slowly, on the piano. If not for The Chronicler, i will never develop courage to sing in public and this is something i will forever cherish. Though i may not be an extraordinary singer with powerful vocals, the night was an escape to have fun and through this small thing, big things are initialized. And when these big things are initialized, it's an achievement altogether.

Me performing Falling Slowly. Thanks to YH and PY for recording the video. For your viewing pleasure, enjoy! YH also performed a solo flute performance.

Since it was a creative writing competition, prizes were given to winners for each category on the night. The theme was love and as a fond writer of this genre, i submitted an entry for short story. First placings are known as the Papyrus Award winners. I won runner's up. Not that bad, given the limited time i had to craft the story. I posted it up here for, once again, your viewing pleasure!

Titanic

Standing next to her watching the waves on the screen peaked and collapsed in rhythm and in sync with her heartbeat, I could not fight a tear and withheld it from running down my cheeks. As I moved nearer to the bed, nearer to her, I reached for her hand and interlocked my fingers against hers. The sense of warmth and care that she had bestowed upon me was felt to the core, and in every visit, I had never felt any less than before.

Whenever I looked into the mirror, I don’t see myself. I see a part of her in me, and a part of myself that she had changed with her tenderly kind hands. Nobody could have predicted that I’d be with a woman as graceful and as perfect as she is.

The problem wasn’t her; it was me. I was never the most charming man, I was never an academic top-scorer, and neither was I an athlete. And I wasn’t just any ordinary, go-to-school-to-study boy. I was a bully, or a member of a bully team that everyone feared. To say the least, it was fun playing catch with nerdy boys’ lunchboxes. But those joys were temporary and never satisfying, until one day when I realized we were over the limit and it was time to stop. How ironic, bullies never know where the line is drawn and when it’s crossed. But I wasn’t any ordinary, go-to-school-to-bully boy either. I was a bully with, at least, a heart.

She was the victim; it had to be her for it to knock onto my senses; but not of lunchboxes, of course. It was her physical appearance that grabbed the attention of my buddies. They called her names, they gave her labels, and every time she meets them or they meet her, it was those dirty, foul languages coupled with the unpleasant names that greeted her before anything else. I thought that she couldn’t care because she never responded to us. But when I was walking home after school one day, Tuesday, I heard deep, sorrowful weeps. Somehow, I was not the same person as when I was in my group. I was attracted by the sound and followed to the source. She was there, sitting by the drain with a damped tissue in her right hand. She used the back of her left palm to wipe the remaining tears off her cheek.

“Are you alright?” I asked and she jumped from the ground, retracted. She was silent and trembling. “It’s alright. I won’t hurt you.” I thought how silly I was to say that. In her eyes, I’m a bully. “Are you ok?” I attempted again, hopeful. She shook, then nodded as if I was going to attack her if she says she’s not fine. I lifted my hand and tried to touch her but she took it the other way and pushed my arm away.

“You’re just like any other bully!” she barked, turned her back towards me and ran.

“I’m not like them,” I responded, chasing her.

“Just get away from me. And stop disturbing me!” She turned the other way when ran in front of her.

“Look. Tell me. What did they do to you?”

“As if you care! You’re just going to do what they did.”

“What did they do?” I felt agitated not knowing what terrible thing they had done. I had imagined the worst. And I wasn’t sure why I felt the fear for her.

She was a classmate of mine. I didn’t realize she was until I saw her sitting somewhere in the front two rows of the class the next day. She was smiling, as if whatever happened the day before vanished and disappeared. Our English teacher, Miss Azizah came in and she told us we were doing a drama. And it was Phantom of the Opera. I was the Phantom, she was Christine.

Even though we were given roles to act, she never wanted to look at me. She looked, but not really looking. It was the same fear I saw in her eyes the day I first saw her. And even though she was my drama teammate, I thought they would have respected her more but I was proven, miserably, wrong.

I stood up for her in front of them; I thought that was the right move to show her and the rest that I was not pure bully. From that one time, my head was on the chopping board between her and them. I thought the choice was simple; again, I was wrong. I suffered several bruises in a brawl, I became the victim, and I understood how it felt like to be physically threatened. She was not, but it was no less painful if it’s hurting from the inside. And I could not fathom the agony those I had inflicted upon.

It was a sacrifice that came with a reward. I earned her trust and she began to

reciprocate. It was a first step; a long-shot, worth-it first step. We played real-life version of Phantom of the Opera; I was both the Phantom and Raoul.

We grew closer and closer each day for years. And from friends, we became close friends. Then one day, she told me something perplexing.

“Jack, there is something you need to know. We can be friends and I like your company, but we can, and must, never fall in love.” It sounded like a warning. A foretell she had seen, perhaps a premonition.

“What do you mean?” I asked in hope of finding the answer but it was never answered. She always left me puzzled by her request.

“Because falling out of love is more painful than falling into love. Just, promise me that we will not be together.” I promised, but how can you keep a promise you never want to fulfill? And that you never fully understand?

I could feel a warm sensation against my face and when I opened my eyes, I was resting my head on her bed, sitting on the chair with my hands still locked between the fingers. It was like our memories were bound between us and never wanting to let them go. It was four years. Four years of loneliness, four years of frightened days to wait for calls from the hospital and four years of putting my hopes high up as the moon and miracles to shine. Four years of uncertainties. Four years, a long time had passed but one thing for certain that didn’t change is the love I have towards her. It was a promise I was all ready to bend and break.

I released her hand and slowly retracted. I wanted to close the curtain to shadow

the bright light on her face. I remembered how she used umbrella even when it was not blazing hot. But in the midst of pulling out, I felt a tinge on my hand. I thought it was me. Then, I felt it once more. And another time.

I pressed the remote excitedly for the doctor. She began to open her eyes. Little by little, I saw her dark hazel brown eyes shooting rays onto mine. She looked at me, stared at me, baffled.

“It’s me, Rose. It’s me,” I said, with a happiness that soon subsided by another fear. She said nothing and continued to stare at me. The doctor rushed behind me and I took a step back.

It was clear like crystal to me now what she meant. She feared a moment like this. She feared if she will lose me or I will lose her, and how we will both cope and live life. She believed that the first love is the hardest to forget, the hardest to let go. But when I’m now at this cross-road, there clearly is no cross-road at all. It was a one-way path, no returning back, and I knew that for the actions that I will soon make, I will never regret.

The doctor left and before he went, he told me Rose was suffering memory losses. No matter how scientifically right he may be, I choose to defy science and believe otherwise- that there’s a chance for love. I walked into the room with a confidence she had taught me.

“Rose, I don’t know if you can remember me but for one thing you need to know is that I was by your side the moment you woke up. I was beside you, sitting on that chair for the many days. And if you don’t remember me, you must know that I’m always by your side; past, present and future.”

In every sight, I see you.

In every touch, I feel you.

And in every life,

I find you.

I reached out for her hand and gently kissed behind her palm. She looked at me with

a radiant smile pictured across her face.

“Jack.”

(1493 words)

The organizing team with me and the banner.

With Miss G, officiating the ceremony.

Steward and i with The Chronicler souvenirs. With me is the previous semester souvenir, The Chronicler: Pen-a-LOL. Nostalgia overruled us at the after-party...

The Chronicler holds dear to me, and i would never trade anything for this experience. I have learned aplenty, met new and various people whom i have bonded and fostered friendship, and these small things, as i have mentioned, slowly makes me who i am today.

wc10 & The Chronicler!

Season 5, Episode 8: Superb Saturday!

2010-10-28T00:04:00.000+08:00

Snapshot: At the site of Gua Tambun to witness something spectacular.

" Uncharted waters. "

Last Saturday was probably the most happening Saturday since i entered uni. It wasn't that i was off to another day-trip nearby. Or that i participated in a makan spree. Or that i was going for a concert. It wasn't any one of the mentioned; it was all together, summed up into one, long, tiring but superb Saturday!

It started with a field trip for Reservoir Geoscience. I always like field trip because at the same time, we are actually having fun outside campus, looking at things we don't usually see. And when we go for field trips, we see what we need to see, not just on the appearance and learn something outside the book.

Our first visit was in Seri Iskandar. It was alright, sand and shale. Oxidation at surface. Then, it was Gua Tambun. This place is special. If not for this field trip, i would never have thought that it exists so close to us. Ancient drawings on the cave walls. Yes, ancient drawings and from where we stood, we could see tortoise, rat, dugong like sketches. Amazing, right? And from this cave, it tells us the past environment- that Ipoh could be nearly submerged in water.

Field trip also means lots of posing for shots!

Following our lecturer, taking down notes as he explains. Shading from the sun by the outcrop.

Ancient drawings on the wall. Perhaps, i can become an archaeologist since i had interpreted some of these drawings based on my own imagination!

We had lunch in Ipoh, so that covers the makan part. It's a new place to explore and surely, we were hungry. My friend recommended the Fish Noodle and i can tell you, it's delicious! It's costly but definitely worth the price. Talking about it make my mouth water. And don't miss the soy bean, tau foo far and tong yuan combo. It's one-of-a-kind and to say the least, interesting. This place is in Stadium and apart from the mentioned, you can find curry noodles, wan tan mee, among others that are not bad too!

This is good! It's RM 2.

My lunch. It was good lunch! Recommended if you're visiting the place.

Third stop was Kek Lok Toong cave temple. Due to a night event, i needed to skip this stop and head back to uni for rehearsal. There; ends the suspense. I was the emcee, informal, for the UTP Deepavali and Cultural Night. It was my first experience hosting an event in uni. It was tiring and heart-pounding. Even if i had been on stage many many times, during the last five minutes to time, i get cold feet and butterflies.

With the other emcees backstage waiting for cue to come front.

My co-host, M, at the dinner.

Nevertheless, my partners and i managed to put off an amazing show.

All dressed up beautifully for the night!

With A, the Head of Department, after the event.

It was a night to remember.

Hosting is really something new to me. I need to prepare for last minute changes and be spontaneous when these changes are made. During the event, there were many changes to the event flow and thus, our pre-planned script. So much so, we had to come up with our own words and facial expression, to the least, so that the show can continue on smoothly. But when the show ended, it was a feeling of pure satisfaction- that all the nerves have turned into energy for the remaining of the night. The after-party.

Kolam greeting at the entrance.

Deepavali's coming... wc10 can't wait for the delicious food, though on stage, M says, "Deepavali is not all about food."

Season 5, Episode 7: Fast, up in the air!

2010-10-24T00:07:00.000+08:00

Snapshot: With the event banner at the site of 'Up in the air'.

"In every life, I find you."

Every year, when it comes to the July semester (until the Trisem takes over), there will be a big event. Yes, the convocation. But, on top of the convocation and since it's not our turn to celebrate graduation, there's the Convofair. Since i started in uni, there had been three; this is my second. I missed the first as i was back home. Convofair are during the weekends.

Convofair is like a fun fair with lots of food, games, performances. This time was no exception. And to make matters worse, we partied and visited the ground for three days in a row! It should have been on all four days if i had not been, unfortunately, smacked with sore throat that over the next few hours, turned into mild fever and until today, cough and running nose are still my in my combat.

So, what's so special about this time apart from the many days of visit to the booths? Grilled potatoes! We noticed people holding this long stick with potato sliced in between, seasoned with flavours. It was mouth watering and when we had found the shop, we all ordered. Chaos overtook the stall. A beeline was made. But it was worth the wait, worth the price. Oh, so yummy!

Too much to handle, my friend here seen in action to speed up the process. Also, this means more 'liew' (spices).

The final product. Smiling, and lip-smacking!

Since it was spicy, and we were thirsty, we tried this beer-bottle-like drink called Barbican. The bottle is very attractive, catchy but it's just alright. Gassy, but alright.

Perhaps, it was the combination of this two that made my throat the victim.

The next morning, hot air balloon! This was my first experience riding a hot air balloon. I didn't know what to expect but i set my expectations high up in the sky as i have seen them in books or movies.

Up in the air. Due to the hot weather, our balloon didn't fly high enough to make me scared. And it was bound to the ground. So, this fell slightly below average of my expectations. It was fun, but not entirely satisfying.

Nevertheless, there were friends to make the best out of it!

Gathered at the bottom of each other's turn to snap photos. Aerial view of us.

In the Petronas booth. Seen here is not a model, not a prototype. It's the real deal!

On the fast track!

Me against the stimulator. This booth felt like a bazaar-under-one-roof. It was crowded, the things were discounted, people coming in and going out at all times with bags of purchased product. I bought a sporty bag at RM 20. Not bad. To play this stimulator though, a minimum purchase of RM 200 must be made.

But, i didn't need to spend that much. My friends and i teamed up, and gave me the chance to play it!

Then came the discomfort.

It's not a nice experience, and no use to dwell on that. I have recovered, or better now than then. It was utmost priority for me to get well as soon as possible. Stressful days ahead, piling of work and tests, and, for the next episode, the UDCN!

So, Convofair, was it you? But even if it were you, there's nothing to change. Just that, i'll bring and drink more water instead. wc10 moves on the fast lane and is up in the air... if those are considered.

Season 5, Episode 6: It's Sitiawan...

2010-10-10T21:29:00.000+08:00

Snapshot: Teluk Batik and us.

* warning: this is a long post of a Sitiawan getaway weekend with lots of photographs included.

" On the road to finding adventure! "

I wanted to make a visit to Sitiawan before the mid-sem break but due to some circumstances, i didn't make it. But this time, i made sure i will be able to go, explore and discover what Sitiawan has to offer. I believe my one day trip had been fruitful and surely, i had a taste of Sitiawan's life- and it's food!

We gathered at my car at 8.30 in the morning, left with our stomach ringing for food. We reached Sitiawan about an hour later and were introduced to our tour guide, Miss ZY- she's actually my coursemate friend too.

In the car, i said that this trip is for us to get away from all the stress in uni. Away from studies, assignments, quizzes, tests; away from club obligations; away from all things holding us back and spend this trip to the fullest and enjoy. This was exactly what we did!

I insisted that we try new things and see new things. Our food and travel visit begins!

For breakfast, we visited a shop selling 'Ko Lou Mee', a local, Fuchow dried noodles. It was tasty but i have to admit that the black sauce was a little too much.

I was pleasantly surprise. This plate of noodle costs less than RM 3.

After filling our stomach with what-is-to-be the start of our trip, we rested awhile at the guide's home. Then, it's off to Teluk Batik. There is something funny about the name of this place. Surely, there is not much batik around the place. I don't know where does the name originate from but with that aside, it has a beautiful beach line. We only needed to pay RM 1 for car entry and car park.

The place is splendid. Scenic panorama of the horizon and nearby islands. Apart from the long stretches of sand, there are water sports offered too like banana boat and viper. It is reasonably priced- RM 5 per person.

Me and tour guide. See the banana boat behind us?

Clear water. Our shadows against the water. This effect is pretty interesting that i took lots of shots in this manner.

Imprinted on the sands- Teluk Batik and WC.

Strolling along the beach, enjoying the breeze and scenery.

I like this shot of me taking pictures. Nice angle and lighting. Thanks to my friend for this shot. This intensified my desire to buy a dslr in the near future!

At one end of the beach, we noticed statues perched on the rocks. Me against the statues.

Me and YH. Somehow, this place looks like Langkawi.

YW and I against the mini lighthouse. The sea clearly spread behind the picture.

Posing and taking a rest here after the beach-walking here with CC.

Not enough with the beach, we went to our next destination, Marina Island, a private jetty. It is newly open and there weren't many people in the jetty. From the jetty we could see Pangkor Island. I liked the waiting area though, with the open area where we can again, stand off the cliff and enjoy the breeze.

Me, staring into the distance.

Embracing nature! Behind me is the Pangkor Island. It's so close yet so far.

Amazed by the trees, we decided to join their fun.

Time to stay away from the sea, our next visit is the Mangrove Swamp. Be careful of your belongings once you step out of the car. One of my friend had his bottle of water snatched by the wild monkeys! And we were bewildered by their intelligence to drink from it- open cap, use its hands and legs.

At the entrance of the swamp. It is built on a platform so we walked on it while exploring the swampy ecosystem.

A rarity at sight!

On the canopy walk. It's not really high and the gap to walk through is large, so it's not very scary. Enjoyed the view from above.

Back to food, it's lunch time!

The guide claimed this to be the best chicken rice in Sitiawan. It's succulent and tasty.

And to quench our thirst, it's fried ice time! The name of this drink is interesting. How can you fry ice? Fry ice with oil in a pan? Absolutely not. But that's what comes to mind when one says fried ice.

Fried ice! It's actually flavoured drinks fried on a cold pan, tossing and turning as soon as it freezes, and scoops onto the cup.

Waiting in line for the 'Gong Pang', a local biscuit made of flour, onions and your choice of chicken. The aroma of the onions made it so tempting and irresistible. It also made my car smell so... good.

The most anticipated part of this trip finally arrives! A visit to the turtle sanctuary. I just love these little, harmless, marine creatures.

Falling in love almost instantly.

Lying peacefully at the bottom of the pond.

I have never seen this many turtles in my life before! What an experience. Cute and innocent.

With the turtle statue.

Thumbs up for their noble efforts to save these creatures. You have my support- and i'm willing to come stand by you!

Outside the turtle sanctuary is yet another beach line! Oh, i just like the unlimited beach sites!

Somehow, the sea at this part is rougher. Nevertheless, we enjoyed the waves breaking at our feet.

Notice the height of the waves. Now, i can imagine the strength of a tsunami.

Horizon at my tips.

Last picture with me and the sea. I'm a sea lover!

After the beach, we went to a nearby ground under the bridge. Somehow, this photograph does not feel like we were in Malaysia.

Tranquility under the bridge.

Stopped again to buy some Fuchow bread. It's delicious. It comes in two flavours- peanut and bean paste. I prefer the peanut!

After a long day, it's dinner and seafood was our choice as Sitiawan is famous for it.

Coconut to cool down the body after a hot day.

Scrumptious meal! Lala, oyster egg and 'ha kou' with rice and seen here is the local, red wine mee suah. Seriously, we got high eating this! It's a unique dish and i simply enjoy exploring the taste of something different- but it has to be safe before it goes into my mouth.

A proof that we can go high!

Dinner marked the final moment here in Sitiawan, but who says it's the end of our trip. It's a food trip too, and we don't go home until we have tried it all!

Don't be fooled by this picture. The fried chicken is really crispy. But that's not all, it has some extra ingredient that makes it extraordinary. It's a road side stall on the way back to uni.

No doubt, the trip had been fun-filled. It was tiring, but tiring in a good way such that i have explored and experienced something new. These experiences are priceless and i will, as always, cherish them.

One day trip is amazing, and i believe there is more to explore here throughout my stay in uni. There's always a next time and wc10 can't wait for the next day trip!

Season 5, Episode 5: Take flight, Owl!

2010-10-08T21:19:00.000+08:00

" On his way to finding a legend... he will become one. " - Legend of the Guardians: The Owls of Ga'Hoole tagline.

This post is divided into two parts: a movie review and on my uni.

I have been wanting to watch a movie in 3D. I thought Avatar would be a wise choice but because of the cost of the ticket and that my family joined me, i didn't want to burn a hole in their pocket. This time, it was my brother's birthday and he too had never been to a 3D movie. So i thought, this would be a good time to try.

I knew there was a movie on owls. So i YouTube-d it and watched the trailer. Instantly, this movie became the victim of my long-ago desire. I shared this with my brother and like me too, he was excited. He didn't know what the movie was about, at all.

Watching movie in 3D comes a whole new experience. Yes, sometimes my eyes get a little tired with the popping actions and dizzying spins, but if you put those behind, 3D offers something amazing! - such amazing thrill that i will pick 3D movies to watch from now on.

The movie began and i was already stunned by its beautiful graphic. There was one scene in particular where the main owl, Soren flies into the storm with the water droplets slowly and heavenly striking his face- I'm not sure 'his' would be the right pronoun. Then there were slow motion, claw fighting scenes. The timing was well made, not too slow but enough to make you go 'wow'. And since this is a movie with owls as the main characters, you'd expect lots of flying in the air! In short, the movie is beautifully crafted. Perhaps, the 3D emphasized the effects.

In terms of storyline, it was rather predictable. Sibling-rivalry, plots. In the beginning, i was a little confused of what were their names. They are all owls and it took me some time before i could distinguish the characters. I felt some characters lack characterization as well. Nevertheless, on the whole, it offers valuable lessons like friendship, faith, love, courage and unity to name a few. It was not all dark and gloomy, and i liked it when it was day time- shows optimism.

For the price i paid for the ticket, i had no second thought that it was well worth it and definitely a great first experience. This will drive me to fork out, and reach out, deeper into my pocket to watch 3D movies from now on.

Onto my uni. Weekend! It had been a rather tiring week with the rushing of completing assignments and quizzes. And apart from that, club and organization obligations. The weekend is my getaway. In fact, all weekends are my getaway!

Next week will be another hectic week. I will have lab reports to complete, assignments, and tentatively a test. Is this what a uni student should face?

I believe that i need to explore the world and learn from the experience. Because of that, i'll be leaving to Sitiawan with my friends and, you know what, stay tuned for that blog post!

wc10 takes flight!

Season 5, Episode 4: The Moon is round!

2010-10-03T13:19:00.000+08:00

" You know I know how,
To make em stop and stare as I zone out,
The club can't even handle me right now... " - Club Can't Handle Me, Flo Rida feat David Guetta

It is my third time away from home for the Mooncake Festival. What i like most about this celebration is the beauty of the tradition itself, and as much as i love to mention, lighting up the candles, parading with the lanterns and eating mooncakes- without the yolk inside or better still, the 'Ping Pei'.

I remember when i was younger (I still am young), i used to stick candles around my house and bring the lanterns to light. It was first, cartoon characters or dinosaur frameworks, but now, it's the plain coloured lanterns. Either way, this lantern-parading has seen to be less fascinated by the young people of today. Don't they understand this and grasp the pure joy of such an activity. Of course, playing virtual games are something, but when it comes to these matters, those games are nowhere near comparison. And then there was the dare- to walk around my house in the dark with only a candle stick or a lantern. You don't get first hand feelings when playing those games.

So enough about my childhood, Mooncake Festival was on a Wednesday this year and my group of friends decided to celebrate this occasion together. We went to a nearby eat-all-you-can steamboat and as it suggests, we were bloated by the end of our dining session!

An event in my uni was held for this celebration on Monday. It was interesting, especially with the Haunted route. To be honest, it was scary at some point, knowing some sort of history with the location of the route.

Successfully completed the route, we were given a lantern to parade back to our starting point. The night was fun-filled!

In fact, Mooncake Festival is always fun. Need i mention more? wc10 likes!

Eat like elephant?

2010-09-23T20:22:00.001+08:00

Snapshot: I-City in Shah Alam. A place you must experience and feast your eyes.

" I keep on running, keep on running... " - Erase Me, Kid Cudi and Kanye.

Alright, since i'm a man of my words (or trying to establish one), this is a post on my break. It's rather short as i'm entangled with other obligations back here at uni.

Let me begin.

Driving home on Friday, after class, was one of my favourite times. There was no pressure in the drive, my mind was completely on the road focusing on getting back home- unless you consider planning for my holidays as a distraction.

Saturday, off to Kuantan to send my brother for camp. Of course, going means eating. And eating means good. Well, usually that's the case. However, i don't find Kuantan food as amazing as other places i have been. Probably it's just me, taste is subjective. Or perhaps, the choices of the restaurant i went wasn't the one with good ones.

But the highlight of this trip wasn't on the food- since i've been there and experienced it before, it was the elephants i was anticipating. Elephants, yes, you read right. Leaving Kuantan back to KL, we stopped by Kuala Gandah Elephant Sanctuary and i was eager to bathe the elephants or play with them in the river. I didn't do my homework right and when we were there, the elephants had bathed. I was disappointed, but at least i got to see the elephants and i know that i will return to fulfil my desire.

Elephants with their food.

Went out shopping for gifts on Wednesday with my brother and managed to get what we wanted. Thanks for the sales at that time, we saved quite a lot. What can i say, sales time is the best time to go shopping!

I wanted to catch a movie but nothing in the cinema really attracted me.

Friday was Hari Raya, and visited my uncle's house who serves out-of-this-world delicious cake was what i looked forward to. Apart from the cakes, i never seem to give them enough credits, thinking about the ketupats, mutton rendang, kuah kacang and chicken rendang makes my mouth water.

Saturday was my grandpa's birthday dinner and this meant another round of makan!

Sunday, left for Melaka. If in uni, my meals are my meals, eating in Melaka was like my breakfast and probably lunch put together. Haven't i mentioned Melaka is a food haven! You won't have enough time to try them all if you'll be there only for a day! So, i tried to stomach as much as i can. Live life with no regrets.

Muar on Monday and again, makan!

Tuesday, back to KL and halted on the eating. Too much in, too little out. So, it was time to 'cut the fat'- sounds like the Biggest Loser.

Saturday, makan dinner at one of my favourite hawker stall area in KL, and Sunday, as two weeks have passed in a glimpsed, it was time to start another journey back to uni.

Something hit me this holiday and i, sort of, have something in mind to do for my next longer break. I'm going to do a food-and-travel sort. Since my passion is for food and travel, and Malaysia has so much to discover to deliver, i might as well channel it somewhere and expose these places to you. So, watch out, it will happen!

Something about durians is that it's almost irresistible, especially if one looks like a full, delicious smile. No doubt, durians are the king of fruits! And there were around in my house for quite some time until i devoured them all.

Do elephants eat a lot? Because wc10 feels big like an elephant now!

'Not Afraid' of 'Teenage Dream' and whisky!

2010-09-14T23:16:00.000+08:00

" I'm not afraid, i'm not afraid,
To take a stand, to take a stand,
Everybody, everybody,
Come take my hand, come take my hand... "

Alright, so Lady Gaga's 'Bad Romance' took home the Best Video at the VMA 2010- no doubt, she deserved it; Justin Bieber won Best New Artiste; Usher made a mind-blowing performance with 'DJ Got Us Falling in Love' and 'OMG'; and enough with Taylor-Kanye's unforgettable incident, this time, i'm spellbound by Eminem. Yes, in fact, this is the first time i'm actually listening to his song over and over again- Mockingbird is not bad, but just that i didn't really appreciate it as much as this.

I don't know how i got interested in this song; perhaps, the title itself says a lot. 'Not Afraid'. It's not my cup of tea- if you know me well enough, that rap music isn't on the first of my playlist, but this surely made an exception and with its great intensity, i might take a second look at rap music and probably i may like it. Seriously, i like this song so much that i might take this and make it my first attempt to rap.

Don't laugh.

" We'll walk this world together through the storm,
Whatever weather, cold or warm,
Just letting you know that you're not alone,
Holla if you feel like you've been down the same road... "

I know i may not feel the song as much as Eminem himself felt when singing it. His opening act in the VMA was amazing, and the stage was stunning, to say the least. This song has a catchy tune and it has been on auto-play in my mind for the past few days.

" No more drama, from now on i promise to only focus,
on handling my responsibilities as a father,
I solemnly swear to always treat this roof like my daughter,
And raise it, you couldn't lift a single shingle on it..."

If you haven't heard this, you MUST go listen to it then.

Other than Eminem, i found some songs to be good listen- you may have heard of them, i know i'm a little late, being unable to get hold and listen to these songs. 'Teenage Dream' by Katy P leads the pack. From 'California Girls' to 'Teenage Dream', i found both to be extremely catchy. 'Cooler Than Me' by Mike P is next. Then we have Drake's 'Find Your Love'.

There are more, but i just can't recall them at the moment i'm typing this.

And you may be wondering what's with the 'whisky' in the title. I like the taste of alcohol, but i'm no alcoholic! I'll elaborate in my next post.

If you read beyond the words of my post title, i hope you can get the meaning i'm trying to convey. Even if you don't, somehow, along the way in your personal teen years, you will eventually understand it. And when you do, you'll go 'Ooohhhh....."

For the next post, expect one of these songs to be the quote of the post. wc10 is still enjoying his break and like always, he doesn't want it to end so soon!

* this post serves as a prelude to my upcoming post about my break. Stay tuned...

Season 5, Episode 3: When a Chinese kid calls me Anna...

2010-09-05T12:02:00.000+08:00

... and an Indian child calls me uncle.

" Spasibo (pronounce as Spasiba) " - Russian, means 'thanks'.

Lots of happenings in the last recent few days, that each time i wanted to blog, i procrastinated. And when i wanted to start, something else always pops up. So much, that now, it's already my mid-sem break. For this sole reason, i will update.

Of course not from the start. It will be too long for you to read and too tiresome for me to write. I visited I-City in Shah Alam- you can visit my brother's blog for more details.

I'll fast forward to the Thursday before the mid-sem break, putting the test i had earlier the day behind me and skipping the lab part to bring you a story that had, slowly but surely, shaped me into a better person and definitely meant more to an assignment for the Moral Studies.

A group of eight students embarked on the journey to Ipoh, locking the Precious Gift Home as the prime destination. We arrived the home slightly after 3 and handed the groceries we bought earlier to the caretakers as donation. Later, we gathered in the living room and began to introduce ourselves.

When we stepped inside the home, we noticed how the children became excited and attached at our presence. Some came close to us, reached out for our hands and asked us to carry them. They were so little and the majority of them were Indians.

After a brief introduction with them, we began our first activity- drawing with the children. We brought books for them and gave each kid a pencil. I have to admit, my drawing is really terrible, and they wanted us to draw for them. I sat next to a boy, his name is Aaron. From the session we had, i realized how his imagination grew wild and his creativity just spilled all over the pages. Indeed, sometimes i had to ask him what it was because i couldn't make up the pictures he had drawn. He is five.

Meet Aaron.

He asked me to draw him Ultraman. It was not easy- as i have said, i don't draw much but i tried, at least i tried. I asked him to pose as the Ultraman as i sketched the image of him onto the book. Then we drew spiders. Spiderman, actually.

Then there's another kid, his name is Samuel, the kid of my post title. He calls me Anna, and somehow, i felt a feeling i have never felt before. He was the only Chinese boy in the home at that time (his brothers were at school), shy and quiet, yet he mingles well with the other kids. This, by itself, has taught me about togetherness. Being together, despite the difference in race, respect knows no boundaries. To call me 'brother', in any language either way, it simply shows their respect towards us, towards me.

And Aaron, he called me uncle.

Then i experienced another incident that caught my attention. Another kid was drawing in Samuel's book and when Samuel realized it was his, he became agitated. He snatched it away from the other kid and went to the sofa, grabbed a sharpener resting on it and threw it away. I wanted to go to him and talk to him but then he walked to the other side of the room and sat in front of the aquarium. He hit the aquarium with his hand where the fishes were and crossed his arms. Then, he became still for a moment. Not long after that, he got up and walked back to the group of kids and played together again, with the kid that used his book on accident too. I knew that it's normal for kids to throw tantrums and the look on his face says it all. But his tantrum was short-lived and the wonder part of it was he forgave his friend about it and everything became back to usual.

Then it was time to colour the sketches. This, again, i've read that it tells the mind of the child. It gives us a clue to what he thinks or what is playing in his mind- psychology, my passion to study about human behaviour before i took up engineering. Enough on the sketches, they started to make paper planes and flew them across the room. A kid, i can't remember his name, came to me and asked if i could do him a paper game. I asked him what it was and he showed me, by his fingers, how it was played. It was the game that goes 'colour-colour, what colour do you want'.

I knew what it was because i had played it back as a kid. The problem was i couldn't exactly remember how it was made. But, again, i tried. I tried because i wanted to prove to the kid that i can do it. I attempted to design the game for him and as he looked thrilled towards me, i folded the paper, one step at a time. And when i started, the memory of doing it came back and i completed it for him. I wrote the four colours on each face of the paper and slowly placed the paper between his fingers. Not long after that, i saw him walking to the other kids and he started to play with them.

The point is, in satisfying him, i realized that from the result, i'm more satisfied at myself. When he asked me about it, the first thing that came to my mind was 'Oh sh*t, i forgot!' and i was hesitant to start because i didn't want to disappoint him but when i told him 'I can't remember, but i'll try', i couldn't believe that i actually can do it. And that was pure joy and satisfaction.

We played charades for many rounds and from my observation, they are competitive kids. Some are brave to come forward to act; some don't know how to act but they still came forward.

And the last on our spontaneous agenda list was to sing with them. Some of them could play the guitar- if only i have learned. And we sang together. We sang 'Rasa Sayang', twice- once during the singing session and another before we say our goodbyes.

It wasn't until about a quarter past six when we left the home. We were there for about three hours, but it didn't feel as long as the time tells. Perhaps, it was because time flies when we are having fun. But for one thing sure, i was drained at the end of the day- it had been a long day in uni and the kids were energetic.

What i can make out of this visit was that it wasn't a mere task to complete my Moral Studies coursework but something that we can and should learn. Other values that i learn through this are patience and tolerance. It is not as evident or as clear in the situations i had experienced but on the whole, i felt that without these two putting into practice, there won't be a visit as fruitful as this.

wc10 will visit the home again and 'spasibo' for the enriching experience!

Season 5, Episode 2: SY's Convo and MPO weekend...

2010-08-15T09:36:00.000+08:00

" Heads, I win. Tails, you lose. " - Leap Year.

" At the end, a job is not just a job. Is who you are, and if you wanna change who you are, you have to change what you do. " - Repo Men.

With my cousin's graduation party and my uni's Tapestry of Colours in MPO, all the more reason for me to get back to KL for the weekend!

On the other end- going just briefly, studies in uni have been getting tougher, although somehow i have already expected it to be. But with lecturers that are 'faster than a speeding bullet'- quote Superman's car deco in my sis' car, what's the rush and sometimes i do get lost in the middle of the lecture. This has to stop. I really need to focus. Need. To. Focus.

But i have so many other plans too... Juggling each ball with proper timing, i sense this semester is going to be another great ride of challenges, so much so that i look forward even more for the weekend to escape.

Back to the weekend, Tapestry of Colours was alright. MPO looks smaller than i thought it to be but surely, it was grand. The performance was alright, too. The singing was rather long and draggy but the dancers' costume were beautiful. OCM did well too, though i missed out on the 'Warisan' piece. Needless to say, it was my first time in MPO and sharing it with my uni friends for my uni's event, it was, cliche as it is, nice.

After the show.

From KLCC, dad picked me up and went straight to my cousin's dinner party. Congrats SY once again for your graduation! And thanks for the 'makan'. It was delicious, scrumptious and full!

With the cousins on stage for a photo shoot.

Following dinner was a round of bowling. Rusty, really rusty. My shots were out of target and even if there was, it was lacking the oomph in the shot. No strike, pathetic of me, not even once. May be it was the alcohol that entered my bloodstream. Whisky's good.

Celebrated one of my friends birthday last Monday at Pizza Hut- it seems to be the most popular birthday spot here in uni. Happy Birthday, E!

After the dinner.

Entering uni, i have watched so many movies. New ones, old ones. It's one of the past-times to do here, so don't blame me. This post, i'd like to review two movies: Leap Year and Repo Men.

Leap Year is a romantic comedy and it was entertaining to watch. The same sort of feeling when watching The Proposal. And Amy A looks prettier in this movie that i could remember, and her character is fun to watch when paired with Matthew G. It has an interesting take on an Irish tradition, about the ladies proposing to their boyfriends on the 29th February. As the poster goes, 'it is not her boyfriend', the storyline becomes predictable but again, i'd like to stress, is how the progress is, not the final result. Somehow, Ireland seems to be the place for romantic shows these days, taking PS I Love You, in consideration. The setting of the movie is beautiful, especially on the cliff, and made me want to visit the place once day. Good watch, at least it has a happy ending.

Repo Men, on the other hand, has one of the most ridiculous ending. It was useless, pointless and absolutely unnecessary. The ending is like the Inception movie but without it's real strong dream foundation to it. So, i'll review this based on the movie before the last five minute or so. Jude L looks different in this movie too. I've never watched him play lead roles in an action movie, and i consider this movie a sci-fi action and he does well in the role, along with the rest of the cast. Repo Men is set sometime in the future, where failed organs can be replaced with new, mechanical ones. But it comes in a hefty price and those whose payments are overdue, the Repo Men hunts them down. The storyline is interesting- how the repo man enters his own world of being the hunted and struggles for a way out. Those who are watching this, i recommend you to switch off at the last five minutes.

More is to come, cheers SY! wc10 gets ready for more excitement, on screen and off screen!

Season 5, Episode 1: On my way...

2010-08-06T13:47:00.000+08:00

" Private victories precede public victories. "

" Inside-out means to start first with self- to start with the most inside part of self- with your paradigms, your character, and your motives. " - Principle-Centered Leadership, Stephen Covey

Filming of Season 5 begins...

It's almost the end of the second week since the semester commenced. To tell you the truth, i have been wanting to blog about my first week but i was terribly busy. Weekdays, there were meetings to attend to, tasks to be fulfilled. Yet, despite the hectic first two weeks, i'm liking it. Liking it a lot. But becoming the President of ELC and the Student Advisor of HOT, i need to step up my pace.

As for weekends, they are my personal escapade.

Back to the first week, my friends and i had to select and arrange our timetable- something we detest often. Whenever the time clashes between classes, we have to negotiate for a new time slot. Sometimes, we need to rush for a place for our lab sessions or tutorials. They're on a first come, first serve basis.

Since it was the first week, we had been much relaxed and having said so, we fled to Ipoh after our class ended at 10 on Thursday. First of the list was the karaoke session. A mixture of Chinese and English songs, we had extreme fun holding the mic. Later, it was dinner at McD. Well, you may be wondering why of all places, McD in Ipoh. It wasn't just McD, but their new GCB on the menu that strike my attention, and of course, my wallet. It was tasty, really, but rather expensive.

Dinner done, SALT next. About the movie, i've nothing much to comment since i didn't expect much from the movie except for Angelina J's great acting and the chasing scenes following 'Who Is Salt' in the trailer. It does have an effective suspense element to keep you wanting for more, some twists and turns along the way to break your predictions and thrilling action scenes. No doubt, it was the jumps from one truck to another that excites me the most.

Returned to uni after the movie, spending almost 12 hours in Ipoh, and surely a hole burnt in the pocket. But it was worth it. It wasn't like i do this every time, especially when the semester really begins.

The second week was the Minggu Mesra Kampus, MMK for short. It's the time when all clubs and society in my uni opens a booth to attract and recruit new members. Somehow, this MMK drained my energy and by the end of the day, i'm worn out. Yet, because i have meetings to attend, i saw myself stealing time, sometimes just 30 minutes, to nap! And i didn't have much time for myself. I vow to jog at least twice every week (You may be saying that that's too few, but its the best i can do to fit into my schedule and weekends are excluded) but until today, it had been twice- one for each week.

Don't get me wrong. I'm not complaining. I like doing what i do now, and Second Year- it's a whole new challenge! wc10 is on his way there...

Inception, Predators, OnG Talk!

2010-07-21T11:26:00.000+08:00

" What's the most resilient parasite? An Idea. A single idea from the human mind can build cities. An idea can transform the world and rewrite all the rules. Which is why I have to steal it. " - Inception, 2010.

One more week remaining before the start of a new semester, another whole shooting of a new season. For that reason alone, i pledge to spend my holidays to the fullest, to the maximum, because i know once i start my classes, i won't have much time for myself.

Alright, so you may have noticed, i didn't update much since the last post on Cordon Bleu. I have to admit, i was rushing against time to complete some things and now i can wipe the sweats off and tell you, i'm done with it!

So, i'll start by flashing back to last Thursday. The Society of Petroleum Engineer Student Chapter of my uni organized a talk on the oil and gas industry as well as about the university to secondary schools. My secondary school was listed and on Thursday last week, i gave a short talk, exposing the students briefly to the oil and gas industry. At first, i was nervous because i didn't know what to say and i was afraid that if i dwell too much into the technical words, i might bore them. And at the end of the day, i think i did alright and from now on, i might want to be a speaker.

Two of my friends were involved in the talk and after the tour around my school- i still remembers of them fondly, we went to Fong Fong Restaurant for Yong Tau Foo. After that, we headed to Wangsa Walk for Predators.

I expected more violence, more gore from this movie since it's about aliens and humans becoming their prey. But when the show started, it started rather abruptly as if throwing you straight into the shoes of the characters on another planet, and it went to adventure-mode. Somehow, this movie is different than other alien movies because they focus a lot on the characters and the development of each and every one of them. The aliens are there to mess things up and questions the humanity of the characters.

In this movie, it's like a game and the characters are players fighting for survival; and after each round, new members join in the game and continue to fight for their survival. It's a cycle. I wouldn't say this movie is mind-blowing but it has its necessary elements to keep me satisfied. Surely, they had a fantastic cast for such a movie. Adrien B does well.

Thursday night and Friday morning were dramatic. They informed that results are out on 16th, so i waited past midnight until about three but they weren't released yet. Then the next morning, i woke up to check but it still didn't come out.

On Saturday, i met up with a friend to discuss some matters over. It was a nice chat and definitely insightful.

Tuesday was fun. Had a wonderful day of eating- since i'm going back to uni, i'll be missing good food. Loving my Fossil. And watched, what i would now say, the best movie of 2010... Inception.

Inception is superb! How could anyone but them come up with such a fantastic story and a brilliant storyline? Christopher Nolan is my favourite director now and any movies from him hereon will be watched in the cinemas! Seriously, the movie is that amazing! Although it's about two and a half hours, i didn't feel a bit bored at all and the development of the story was terrific. Dream in a dream in a dream. To so many levels of dream, i didn't know if everything was a dream! - i don't know what i'm saying here. I'm probably still in the movie's dreaming...

Back to Inception, it has spectacular acting as well, with Leonardo D C leading the cast. Ellen P, Ken W, and those i recognized-their-faces-but-don't-know-their-names, were perfect. This show proves that it doesn't need to be in 3D for it to be mind-blowing. The graphics are spot on especially when she designed the city and it closed in above their heads, and the water effects. And the action scenes, simply wow! I mean, the ski-shooting, the anti-gravity fist fight, the explosions, the freefall, the meticulous timing, the chases both on foot and on wheels, left me to wow at every one of them!

And until the last moment, the spinning of the totem, the audience in the cinema, me included, didn't take our eyes off the screen. The ending was the best and it leaves us to choose with the littlest tip, that whether it was, after all, still a dream. The best movie of 2010, and arguably the best movie i have watched. This definitely deserves a success like Titanic at the awards. And Nolan can claim to be top of the world too!

One Shot first draft is done!

On World Cup. Yes, Spain won! I wanted to do a post on the WC but i didn't have the time. So much of my energy is channeled to One Shot, but what i can summarise is that i miss the times when i stay awake until 4.30am to watch a match! Next stop, Brazil!

With a few days left, i still have plans. wc10 wants to party...

* Season 4 rates at 4.0. Thank you, all!

Chicken Cordon Bleu, Toy Story 3, Faithfully!

2010-07-10T15:17:00.000+08:00

" I'm forever yours, faithfully. " - Faithfully (Journey), Glee cast

" [Andy] Thanks, guys.
[Woody] So long... partner. " - Toy Story 3

My holidays are coming to an end, so fast, so soon. I still have lots more to do, lots more to complete before i start my next semester. Many things on hold, some still pending, that again i felt myself running against time.

This post will be different. The first part will be a sharing of my first experience making a, get ready for it, chicken cordon bleu and i'd also like to share the recipe with you- in case if you might want to try. Chicken Cordon Bleu is an easy dish to make. You don't need to be an expert to make a fairly tasty, simple one. I have to admit, i'm no expert at the kitchen, yet.

The ingredients you need. A chicken breast seasoned and marinated with salt and pepper...

Biscuit crumbs, sausage, cheese and ham. Some toothpicks. You may want to vary your cordon bleu by adding other ingredient such as egg, flour, or subtract those you don't want from mine.

Having the ingredients ready at the side, the first thing you need to do is to pound the chicken breast and make sure it's flat, look to the picture above again. You may want to stretch it a little longer and wider so that you will get a bigger piece of meat to fit all your ingredients inside. Also, a reminder, i would recommend you to get or make the pounded piece more rectangular in shape. You will find this absolutely necessary when you want to roll.

Next comes the most exciting part, the filling of your cordon bleu. Depending on how you like your inside to be, mine was, i layered the piece of ham over the chicken, and then the cheese. After that, i centered the sausage and prepared to roll. When rolling, it may be a little tricky as your might notice some parts jutting out. Patiently force them back into the roll, and if necessary, apply some pressure to make sure they don't fall out. When it's done, staple each ends with toothpick. This will hold them from coming out later when you fry.

An uncooked, nicely wrapped chicken cordon bleu. Just before frying, dip this piece into the biscuit crumbs.

The next part comes the frying. Heat up the wok (i used a wok, i didn't have an oven), and add oil to the surface. When it's hot, gently rest the cordon bleu into the wok and toss and turn it until it gets brown and cooked. Dish it up and walla!

Your chicken cordon bleu is ready to be served! Mine got a little burnt on the outside due to the cheese that oozed out somehow and hit the wok. So, removed the burnt layers and mine was ready to be eaten! To be honest, i'm very pleased with my first attempt at it- it tastes really really good! I'll be doing another one, really soon...

The next part of this post will be a movie review. Toy Story 3. I know i'm a little behind time with the Eclipse phenomenon, Predators, Despicable Me and Inception being the movie in town to watch, i can't help but to congratulate Pixar for producing yet another winner. I wouldn't say i'm a die-hard fan of Toy Story, but i know Woody and Buzz. If there's going to be any comparison, i say Toy Story 3 will be this year's best animation film and it levels with Up. Seriously, it's that good. What more, the characters became more relatable than ever. Andy is going to college, leaving behind his toys. Me, already left for college, and left behind my toys. The movie began with a flashback of how he used to love to play his toys and i have to say that when i was younger, i played like how he played. Imagining them as real-life figures, added sound effects and action scenes to my creativity.

Then the story went into adventure-mood. How they have to face the toys at Sunnyside! How they have to escape from that terrible place! It's funny, hilarious, especially the part when Mr Potato Head became a tortilla. That's sheer comedy and the whole cinema rocked with laughter!

After the adventurous part, comes the most touching, most heartbreaking part of the movie. The last thirty minute or so, we had to see Andy departing with his toys. Having grown so attached to these toys, leaving them behind and the thought of never being able to be with them again brings the movie to a total tear-jerking moment. What more when the characters kept on saying that they are Andy's toys and lift their legs up with his name written on their foot. Damn! I have been wanting to cry a lot in the cinema these days. For that reason alone, Pixar's idea to come up with the final Toy Story was brilliant! They ended with such memorable, unforgettable scenes. Thumbs up for Toy Story 3! A perfect blend of touching scenes, hilarious acts and thrilling adventure!

On TV, Glee Season 1 came to an end. What a dramatic ending! With Faithfully and Don't Stop Believing worsening my addiction to it, i have been practising these songs on piano and i can tell you, i'm almost there.

World Cup! It's coming to an end real soon! I wonder how would it be like not waking up in the middle of the night to watch the matches. A Spain-Netherlands showdown! I will be rooting for Spain, for sure. As for Germany, who lost to Spain, you are already a winner. You knocked out Argentina and England by 4, that's something you should be so proud of! And if either Spain or Netherlands wins, you'll be remembered this World Cup for the fantastic play of football!

Faithfully, wc10.

S'pore Experience 3

2010-07-06T15:07:00.000+08:00

* This is the third and final part of a three-part post.

" It is you i have loved all along. " - Shrek soundtrack

After a long and exhausting day at the Universal Studios (No, i'm not complaining. It's all worth it), we had another long day ahead. You know what makes a holiday a holiday? Yes, for me, it's getting around and experience the best it could offer, even if it sores the feet. If it's going to be just sitting around, watching the day go past, then that's not a holiday. So, although we didn't get up as early as we did yesterday to beat the crowd into Universal Studios, we prepared ourselves for Sentosa, Singapore's playground, without a doubt.

- Chinatown
Before heading to Sentosa, we stopped by Chinatown for brunch. Ate the Singaporean Laksa in the hawker centre. Not bad. Then while strolling around the place, halted at a stall that sells durian pancake. Seriously, this pancake tastes so good, especially if you're a durian lover. It's hot and crispy on the outside, cold and chilly on the durian paste inside. Yummy! Sorry, no photos here for you to drool.

- Sentosa
Again, we took the monorail into the island. Instead of stopping at Waterfront, we went straight ahead to Imbiah station, where most of the Sentosa's activities are located.

> Sentosa Luge and Skyride
If you're going to Sentosa, this attraction is a must try. Thrilling ride, both up and down. We checked in to the platform and boarded our luge. It's similar to go-kart, but you don't need to press for oil. Instead, you lift to either go ahead or brake. You can race with your friends to the finish line, but we'd rather take our time and savour the moment. We paid for a one-time ride only. And to go back up, we sat the skyride. Similar to a ski lift, it's a magnificent view from above. If you're afraid of heights, this puts you to the challenge.

Queuing for our turn.

The skyride. At some points, it's quite high, or may be it's just myself.

> Merlion Walk
To enter, there's admission fee. So, we decided to just see the iconic structure from outside.

Posing quickly at this half lion, half fish statue.

> Sentosa's 4D Magix, CineBlast and Desperado.
Frankly, i wouldn't recommend you these if your itinerary on the island is tight. The 4D Magix was just above average (comparing to Shrek's 4D), the CineBlast was a little disappointing, and Desperado was fun but expensive. In fact, they were all quite costly- taking into account the length of play and the currency exchange rate.

> Underwater World and Dolphin Lagoon
I just like to go for Underwater World(s). Perhaps, it's my enthusiasm for the marine life and the endless possibilities of the world under water. Do you know that i'd also wanted to be a marine biologist before taking on course and become an engineer?

In the tunnel.

Posing with a diver who was feeding the fishes while in the tunnel.

Behind me is a dugong. It got taken in when it was little and placed under the care of the Underwater World personnel.

An interesting hologram of a shark that appears at a certain angle.

Inside this dome, where i could get a closer look at the creatures.

Dolphin show at the lagoon. Seen here is the dolphins performing with their ball.

Splendid marine lives as my background.

Meet the sea lions session.

Japanese Giant Spider Crab. If i happen to see this real, without a glass separating us, i'd quickly swim away. Very quickly. It's really... giant.

In Langkawi, we saw the Leafy Seadragon and it was my favourite then. Here, even with the leafy seadragon, my favourite became the Sea Angel. It was too tiny, that even if i took with my camera, you'll just be seeing a tiny red dot in the water. The way they swam, spun, and dived in the water really made them looked so... angelic.

In short, this place is worth the price. You get to watch two shows: dolphin and sea lion, see new and unseen sea creatures like the sea angel and giant spider crab, touch rays and star fish, and walk through the tunnel and be close to the creatures.

> Songs of the Sea
After the Underwater World, we regrouped and prepared to witness the much-awaited spectacular show by the sea. We took the next train to Beach side station and greeting us at night was a splendidly lit fort-like building. The show was impressive. Highly-recommended and reasonably priced.

I just liked the lights!

The Lord of Fire!

The water fountain is fantastic! With the music, pyro-effects, lasers and of course, the water effects, this show is a must watch!

After the show, we went on a tram ride around the beach front to experience the night breeze. It was, surprisingly, a nice ride.

>Haw Par Villa
Just before flying off back to KL, we stopped by Haw Par Villa. It's a nice place to visit. Free admission. We walked around Hell, went next to see the Eight Immortals and other statues, with our luggage.

At the main gate.

I don't know what it's written but i know this is the entrance to the Ten Stages in Hell. An interesting place to see and, i have to admit, entering this place brought chills. Especially when looking at the figures.

One of the many lessons. Seen here is the virtue and vice. There were many other interesting Chinese tales to read in this place and i'd like to spend more time here. If only time permits.

Bidding farewell to the place, hopped onto bus number 10 and returned to Vivocity.

> Brook Cafe
The last meal we had in Singapore before rushing to the Changi Airport. Because we were dwelling to much on our lunch, and not wanting to leave this place, we overlooked the time and ran from one terminal to the other. Thankfully, we made it back!

Spaghetti on offer and a Bahamas breeze- i didn't know what it was until my order came. What an adventure.

Arrived in KL and headed back home. Well... not exactly home. Just when i reached KL, my dad told me that we're going to our uncle's place to watch football. Brazil versus Netherlands! What a way to end my already exciting holiday!

wc10&Singapore likes this!

* Onto World Cup.

Went out to watch the second half of the Germany-Argentina match in Kayu, Petronas in Ampang. The crowd was amazing, and so was the match! Looking forward to the semifinals...