Monday, April 07, 2008
Thursday, April 03, 2008
Rediscovering the touch~
Spring quarter has started very much quicker than expected, and probably not well anticipated due to the chilly weather that we have faced in the past few days, with snow reported in Seattle over the weekend while we were on Spring break. It is still relatively cold with temperatures averaging slightly less than 10 degrees C. This quarter, I am taking 5 courses. They are Incompressible Aerodynamics, Propulsion, Functional Properties of materials 1, Introduction to modern materials, and Introduction to manufacturing processes. Today in my Intro to manu process class, my professor, reminded us why we are studying engineering.
"In the manufacturing processes, there are design engineers, manufacturing engineers, and the support and administration. Design engineers are where we want to be, but support and administration is where the money is. So why do u want to be here? Why not get an MBA?"
Everybody remained silent for a while before some answers popped out from corners of the classroom.
Finally he said "Engineering is a noble profession to exercise your creative mind to design and create things for the world, for the people. We are directly responsible for people's welfare. When we screw up, people die. It is therefore important to remember what you have learnt in class so that you will become good and responsible engineers when you graduate."
I make it a point to remember what I'm studying, and to be as serious as I can to what I'm studying. Studying here in the US has certainly broadened my perspective on learning, and why we should learn and continue to learn as an engineer, why we should pursue learning not just for the good grades, but for the ultimate responsibility for other people's lives. Sometimes when the going gets tough, all the toughness just clouds out these goals and mottos. But today, it has been made clear to me again through Prof Labossiere, one who has inspired me at the start of the dreary Spring quarter, one whom already earned my respect just at the 2nd lesson.
Spring quarter has started very much quicker than expected, and probably not well anticipated due to the chilly weather that we have faced in the past few days, with snow reported in Seattle over the weekend while we were on Spring break. It is still relatively cold with temperatures averaging slightly less than 10 degrees C. This quarter, I am taking 5 courses. They are Incompressible Aerodynamics, Propulsion, Functional Properties of materials 1, Introduction to modern materials, and Introduction to manufacturing processes. Today in my Intro to manu process class, my professor, reminded us why we are studying engineering.
"In the manufacturing processes, there are design engineers, manufacturing engineers, and the support and administration. Design engineers are where we want to be, but support and administration is where the money is. So why do u want to be here? Why not get an MBA?"
Everybody remained silent for a while before some answers popped out from corners of the classroom.
Finally he said "Engineering is a noble profession to exercise your creative mind to design and create things for the world, for the people. We are directly responsible for people's welfare. When we screw up, people die. It is therefore important to remember what you have learnt in class so that you will become good and responsible engineers when you graduate."
I make it a point to remember what I'm studying, and to be as serious as I can to what I'm studying. Studying here in the US has certainly broadened my perspective on learning, and why we should learn and continue to learn as an engineer, why we should pursue learning not just for the good grades, but for the ultimate responsibility for other people's lives. Sometimes when the going gets tough, all the toughness just clouds out these goals and mottos. But today, it has been made clear to me again through Prof Labossiere, one who has inspired me at the start of the dreary Spring quarter, one whom already earned my respect just at the 2nd lesson.
Sunday, March 30, 2008
Spring Break Trip Day 8~
We left Colorado Springs in the morning for Denver, and on the way we stopped by the US Airforce Academy. It was kinda like a SAFTI equivalent or if you guys know, the equivalent of West Point just that the academy trains officers for the US Airforce. We got to see briefly the life of a US Airforce cadet, and it was kinda interesting to note how they would go through the course and graduate with a Bachelor's of Science and at the same time commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant.
After that, we ate lunch in a Dim Sum restaurant in Denver which supposedly won many accolades but to our disappointment, it was well below expectation and we figured that Dim Sum standards in the US is generally lower. We checked into the Red Lion Denver Central hotel in the afternoon, and its name being rather deceiving, it is nowhere near the heart of Denver downtown. Nevertheless, we mustered up some energy to get our butts out of the comfy hotel to make our way to downtown Denver by car, 16th Mall street. It was a nice little street loads of shops that makes walking down it rather delightful. Furthermore, the Civic park was just around the corner hence I would say we managed to fruitfully spend 2 odd hours walking around the entire downtown of denver.
For dinner, since it was the last night of Spring Break, we decided to go somewhere nice for dinner. We ended up at a place called Dixon's grill, where they supposedly serve Denver's best magaritas. Dinner was fantastic and the ambience and atmosphere was great to round up an eventful 8 days of travelling.
Tomorrow, we would be nua-ing the entire morning in the hotel and we would be driving to Denver International Airport to return the car after lunch. After which, we would wait to catch our flight back to boring Seattle at 1600 hrs. Officially, this would be the end of Spring break. It would be another start to another quarter, the last.
I thank God for the strength he has given to me, the friends, the guidance, and the good weather through this entire trip. Amen.
The official Spring Break Road Trip Song. Enjoy!
Saturday, March 29, 2008
Spring Break Trip Day 7~ 
Tomorrow, we'll be heading down to Denver City in the morning, probably making the US Airforce Academy a stopover on the way. It will be our "last day" of the Spring break trip, because on the official last day, we would probably be sleeping in, and chillaxing before heading down to Denver International Airport to return the trusty Hyundai Sonatas, which have proved trustworthy and served us well during the entire trip with both function and form. 2 more days, and it will be Hello again Seattle....
The effects of the accumulation of fatigue could be felt today, and some of us were not able to wake up on time. Nevertheless, we still managed to go on a 1 and a half hour, slightly treacherous and slippery hike to see some spectacular views in North Cheyenne Cañon Park.
After which, we went to Manitoe Springs to have a well appreciated lunch in what seems to be a very very cold (to us..we were freezing our asses off) Friday afternoon in Colorado Springs. After that, we headed to Pike's Peak which was so high at 14 thousand plus feet, we found ourselves driving into and above the clouds on our way up. It was such an amazing experience at one point, we thought that we were in Finland or something. Luckily for us, there was no need hike, and all we had to do was to rely on the car to bring us to the 11,000 feet that the park allowed us to go to.
We headed to visit the Cave of the Winds after that, a cave which as some stalagmite and stalagtite formations, which was not very impressive for the price we had to pay, another "tourist trap" I would say. Dinner was probably unfogettable as it was a first. A&W Rootbeer Float with 7 piece KFC chicken and a small coleslaw. An initial craving that proved too much to handle...I swear I wouldn't eat KFC for at least 3 months.
Tomorrow, we'll be heading down to Denver City in the morning, probably making the US Airforce Academy a stopover on the way. It will be our "last day" of the Spring break trip, because on the official last day, we would probably be sleeping in, and chillaxing before heading down to Denver International Airport to return the trusty Hyundai Sonatas, which have proved trustworthy and served us well during the entire trip with both function and form. 2 more days, and it will be Hello again Seattle....Friday, March 28, 2008
Spring Break Trip Day 6~
Its amazingly the 6th day already, and time seems to pass very fast when one is enjoying oneself....
It snowed today in Boulder, such that it kinda restricted our activities to driving around the University of Colorado. We were definitely in no mood to walk around outdoors be it the outdoor malls along Pearl Street or Chataqua Park. Hence, we decided to drive south towards Colorado Springs earlier than planned, a decision that proved to be a good one. We probably have taken good weather forgranted during our entire trip, but I have to say that we have really been blessed with fantastic weather so far wherever we have gone to, so much so that the bad weather today in Boulder was probably God's plan to tell us to go to Colorado Springs earlier, which was another fantastic decision cos we realized that there is just so much more to do in Colorado Springs than in Boulder.
Hence, we took a relaxing morning drive down south, escaping from all the rainy/snowy weather to be gladly greeted by bright sunshine and blue sky. We spent the afternoon takin walks and drives in the Garden of Gods, a park with natural rock formations, then going to Manitou Cliff Dwellings, where we got to see the Cliff dwellings of the Native Indians. After that, we took a very short stroll in Old Colorado City before heading to a Vietnamese/Chinese Restaurant located by GPS which turned out to be pretty good despite its emptiness and its queer nature. Tomorrow, we'll be discovering some of the other attractions Colorado Springs have to offer.
Its amazingly the 6th day already, and time seems to pass very fast when one is enjoying oneself....
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
Spring Break Trip Day 5~ 
The Mount Rushmore National monument Park was just a 5 minutes drive away from our motel. At the entrance of the park, we were greeted by a few deers grazing. The 4 heads of the presidents were so magnificent they were noticeable on the way to the Park. George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln are the 4 chosen Presidents to be sculptured out of the granite in the Black Hills National Forest by Gutzon Borglam for their great contributions to the progress of the United states. We spent the morning just admiring the carvings of man in Nature's creation, and learning brief American history and the story behind the monument. At midday, we left for this town called Custer, where there's a Flintstone themeed trailer park. It was closed for the season, thus we just took a few photos before moving on. 6 hours of driving brought us to Estes Park, Colorado. We passed by the most scenic drive in Colorado through the Big Thompson Canyon, AT NIGHT. Hence, we are gonna drive back through it tomorrow again when there is light!
Tomorrow we'll be spending the day up in the Rocky Mountians, going for scenic drives and shiong hikes, before leaving for Boulder city in Colorado.
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
Spring Break Trip Day 4~
Everyone was up early today to prepare for the longest drive on the road trip, a wooping 10 hours from Salt Lake City in Utah to Keystone in South Dakota. We started off from Salt Lake at 0730 hrs, and it all seemed to be going good in the morning until the other car got stopped by a state trooper that was 'hiding' in the divider between the roads. They were kinda stopped for 'speeding', but fortunately, were let off with just a warning. At our lunch break point, some friendly people recommended us to visit Devil's tower Monument in Black hills National Forest, and we decided to take the advice hence we took a 'little' detour from our original route. It turned out to be quite a sight as you would be able to see from the photos. After that, we finally headed for Keystone which we arrived safely at 2230 hrs at the comfortable Holiday Inn Express hotel, probably the best accomodation so far. Besides the 'pretty' beds as described by Michelle, we were spoiled for choice for the firmness of pillows, either soft or firm. A comfortable hotel is definitely needed after 15 hours of travelling.
Tomorrow, we'll be heading to Mount Rushmore to see the faces of 4 presidents carved out against a rock wall. After that, it will be a 6 hour drive down towards Estes Park, the base of the Rocky Mountains. 
Monday, March 24, 2008
Spring Break Road Trip Day 3~
Because it is Easter Sunday, many shops and eateries were closed, so we ended up eating at a Seafood place which served up some great seafood. After lunch, we took a little drive out of Salt lake City, to see the Winter Olympics Park. To our dismay, the park was closed for a private event. We managed to take some pictures before being chased out by the Park Ranger. After which, we went to the Olympic Oval where there is a SUPER huge ice skating rink, and a speed skating race track. But unfortunately again, the skating rink was closed so we couldn't ice skate on it. A little disappointed, we headed to Hard Rock cafe for dinner where we had another chillax meal. It was evident that many of us are showing signs of tiredness and fatigue on only the 3rd day of the trip. Hence, after dinner, we made our way back to the motel for an early night, because tomorrow, we'll be driving a total of 10 hours towards Keystone, South Dakota, and we'll need all the energy we can get.
Today was Easter Sunday, and we woke up to the voices and sounds of the Mormon Tabernacle Choir and Orchestra in the morning held during the Morning service in the Tabernacle at Temple Square. It was rather interesting to see how strong the mormon presence/influence is here in Salt Lake City. Actually, the Church of the Latter Day Saints was founded in Salt Lake City by the father of Mormonism Joseph W. Smith and his followers. It was also interesting to see how friendly and zealous the mormons are, and how they are so convicted to their faith. Besides having a rather educational tour about Mormonism and its seemingly international widespread presence, we explored around Temple Square, the stronghold and HQ of the Mormons in the morning today.
Because it is Easter Sunday, many shops and eateries were closed, so we ended up eating at a Seafood place which served up some great seafood. After lunch, we took a little drive out of Salt lake City, to see the Winter Olympics Park. To our dismay, the park was closed for a private event. We managed to take some pictures before being chased out by the Park Ranger. After which, we went to the Olympic Oval where there is a SUPER huge ice skating rink, and a speed skating race track. But unfortunately again, the skating rink was closed so we couldn't ice skate on it. A little disappointed, we headed to Hard Rock cafe for dinner where we had another chillax meal. It was evident that many of us are showing signs of tiredness and fatigue on only the 3rd day of the trip. Hence, after dinner, we made our way back to the motel for an early night, because tomorrow, we'll be driving a total of 10 hours towards Keystone, South Dakota, and we'll need all the energy we can get. Sunday, March 23, 2008
Spring Break Road Trip Day 2~
We started out the day at 9 am. Our first stop was at Twin Falls City, where we went to check out a waterfall named Shoshone falls along the Snake River. It was a real pretty sight. We managed to see a full fledge rainbow from the start to the end!
We started out the day at 9 am. Our first stop was at Twin Falls City, where we went to check out a waterfall named Shoshone falls along the Snake River. It was a real pretty sight. We managed to see a full fledge rainbow from the start to the end!
After catching the beautiful shoshone waterfalls, dubbed the niagara falls of the east, we moved on and continued our journey towards Salt Lake City, where we spent the rest of the afternoon just driving around the island, taking photos of the Great Salt Lake and of buffalos and antelopes.
In the evening,, we checked into the Howard Johnson Motel, just 3 blocks away from Temple Square, home of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (Mormon Church), and had a little glimpse of Temple square and the Mormon Tabernacle Choir before scurrying to find dinner at Gateway mall. Tomorrow, we'll be going to Temple Square in the morning to hear the choir sing in the Tabernacle itself. And in the afternoon, we'll be heading down to the Winter Olympics 2002 Park. Here are some photos for your viewing pleasure!
Saturday, March 22, 2008
Spring Break Road Trip Day 1
Ok. We started the day picking up the cars, 2 sleek Hyundai Sonatas. Left Seattle at 1330 hrs, for an 8 hour drive Southwest, bypassing Oregon State, into Idaho state, the state of pototoes to arrive in Boise, a rather big city in Idado. It was the first time driving in the US since I've been here since December. And I must say that it is kinda interesting driving on the left hand side of the road and having all the conventional Singapore driving directions inverted. The hardest part of adapting to this new system would probably be trying to keep the car on the centre of the road. In Singapore, since the driver's seat is situated on the right side, I am more confident estimating on the left side of the car, since we are tained to be more confident. The fact that we are close to the right side makes us complacent, because we are able to see the right side hence the non necessity for us to be competent in judging the right side. Therefore, I have the tendency to keep to the ride side of the lane, something which I will have to correct with 9 more days of driving to go. While driving, I went over the speed limit today driving at 100 miles per hour at night..haha..the road was so straight and tempting that I just had to try it. And oh...today's prob the longest time I've driven (8 hours) and probably the fastest time I've exhausted 1 tank of petrol over 510 miles..haha
Now, we are currently comfortably bunked in a motel chain called Super 8 motel. Pretty decent for 18 dollars a night. Tomorrow, we'll be completeing the other half of our journey to Salt Lake City, Utah, where along the way we will be going to the Twin falls in Idaho, and Antelope Island in Salt Lake city where we would be able to see the Great Salt Lake, before checking into our hotel in the evening and exploring the city's dining and nightlife.
8 hours of driving
Ok. We started the day picking up the cars, 2 sleek Hyundai Sonatas. Left Seattle at 1330 hrs, for an 8 hour drive Southwest, bypassing Oregon State, into Idaho state, the state of pototoes to arrive in Boise, a rather big city in Idado. It was the first time driving in the US since I've been here since December. And I must say that it is kinda interesting driving on the left hand side of the road and having all the conventional Singapore driving directions inverted. The hardest part of adapting to this new system would probably be trying to keep the car on the centre of the road. In Singapore, since the driver's seat is situated on the right side, I am more confident estimating on the left side of the car, since we are tained to be more confident. The fact that we are close to the right side makes us complacent, because we are able to see the right side hence the non necessity for us to be competent in judging the right side. Therefore, I have the tendency to keep to the ride side of the lane, something which I will have to correct with 9 more days of driving to go. While driving, I went over the speed limit today driving at 100 miles per hour at night..haha..the road was so straight and tempting that I just had to try it. And oh...today's prob the longest time I've driven (8 hours) and probably the fastest time I've exhausted 1 tank of petrol over 510 miles..haha
Now, we are currently comfortably bunked in a motel chain called Super 8 motel. Pretty decent for 18 dollars a night. Tomorrow, we'll be completeing the other half of our journey to Salt Lake City, Utah, where along the way we will be going to the Twin falls in Idaho, and Antelope Island in Salt Lake city where we would be able to see the Great Salt Lake, before checking into our hotel in the evening and exploring the city's dining and nightlife.
8 hours of driving
Monday, March 17, 2008
Exams~
Ok. So tomorrow exams start. So I study until sianz already. So I'm blogging and eating B&J's Dublin Mudslide, listening to All My life by KC and Jojo. So only got 4 exams. 4 only lah hor, NTU got 7 one leh. So 2 of them are like open book. So I just started studying for tomorrow's paper yesterday. So I haven't really started studying for the other 3 papers. So if I'm in NTU liddat mati liao. So after writing this post i'll study for a while more b4 I sleep. So that I have enough rest for tomorrow's paper. So that can faster finish 1 paper, then 2 paper, 3 paper, 4 paper. So that Spring break can finally come. So can go for road trip. So like that can have fun. So to have more fun, now must focus first. So I must stop blogging now, if not So how?? So like tt loh....
Check out KT Tunstall and her 'live recording' with her uber cool loop pedal. Will be catching her in Seattle on May 10th!!
So now its muggin time.....
Ok. So tomorrow exams start. So I study until sianz already. So I'm blogging and eating B&J's Dublin Mudslide, listening to All My life by KC and Jojo. So only got 4 exams. 4 only lah hor, NTU got 7 one leh. So 2 of them are like open book. So I just started studying for tomorrow's paper yesterday. So I haven't really started studying for the other 3 papers. So if I'm in NTU liddat mati liao. So after writing this post i'll study for a while more b4 I sleep. So that I have enough rest for tomorrow's paper. So that can faster finish 1 paper, then 2 paper, 3 paper, 4 paper. So that Spring break can finally come. So can go for road trip. So like that can have fun. So to have more fun, now must focus first. So I must stop blogging now, if not So how?? So like tt loh....
Check out KT Tunstall and her 'live recording' with her uber cool loop pedal. Will be catching her in Seattle on May 10th!!
So now its muggin time.....
Friday, March 14, 2008
Mas Selamat causing Massy mess~
Check out this article in the New York Times...It's a super fun read;)
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/03/14/world/asia/14singapore.html?_r=1&hp&oref=slogin
Check out this article in the New York Times...It's a super fun read;)
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/03/14/world/asia/14singapore.html?_r=1&hp&oref=slogin
Monday, March 10, 2008
Daylight Savings~
I woke up to an alarm that's set at 9 am, only to realise its already 10 am. Felt so cheated of 1 hour man. 1 hour can do alot of things leh.. Anyway, Seattle had daylight savings over the weekend, where on Sunday morning at 2am, the time just jumps forward by 1 hour and we lose 1 hour to the black holes. So its Sunday morning now, supposedly 10 am, while I'm eating "breakfast" and sipping on Lipton tea, but actually its 11 am, almost time for lunch, and what could have been a productive morning turned out to be one that has been overslept. Thank god they didn't implement daylight savings over a weekday, if not I'll have to be in class for a 830 lesson at 730. So basically what I'll be doing today is just chilling in the apartment, doing some work and guitaring, before heading to UPC for the eveining service which concludes the Sunday and prepare to head into the last week of school for the Spring quarter.
Sorry for the previous bitching post, it ain't as bad as it sounds..haha!
I woke up to an alarm that's set at 9 am, only to realise its already 10 am. Felt so cheated of 1 hour man. 1 hour can do alot of things leh.. Anyway, Seattle had daylight savings over the weekend, where on Sunday morning at 2am, the time just jumps forward by 1 hour and we lose 1 hour to the black holes. So its Sunday morning now, supposedly 10 am, while I'm eating "breakfast" and sipping on Lipton tea, but actually its 11 am, almost time for lunch, and what could have been a productive morning turned out to be one that has been overslept. Thank god they didn't implement daylight savings over a weekday, if not I'll have to be in class for a 830 lesson at 730. So basically what I'll be doing today is just chilling in the apartment, doing some work and guitaring, before heading to UPC for the eveining service which concludes the Sunday and prepare to head into the last week of school for the Spring quarter.
Sorry for the previous bitching post, it ain't as bad as it sounds..haha!
Saturday, March 08, 2008
Long time no blog, tot I dodge??
Anyway the title is supposed to rhyme. I think I failed miserably...
What happens when in live Monday and Tuesday to complete 3 homeworks that you are supposed to hand in on Wednesday and u realised that you have to redo one of them, and when you think its finally over when you disgustedly throw the condemned pieces of paper onto the teacher's table, just to realise you kena wack by another 4 homework on the same day??
What happens when you go to the Seattle Art Museum as the living dead to attempt to appreciate art that when you are living already find it hard to do so?
What happens when every action, every word you say, is being scrutinized, when you live in emotional fear, fear of the secrecy sworn against you? When our action may cause an uproar or outcry that is muted from you?
What happens when final exams are in 2 weeks time, and you haven't started studying for it because of all the homework you still have, and you feel that your peers are not studying but in fact still partying and snowboarding their weekends away?
What happens when you think you've planned spring break all out, but it crumbles upon you because of ur folly to check carefully enough, and it forces you to rethink ur route where the end point is constrained because of the booked flight?
What happens when everyone is going out over the weekend, while you will be staying at in the apartment ?
My MOM will say: " Go to God in prayer"
And that is what I'll do.....
Anyway the title is supposed to rhyme. I think I failed miserably...
What happens when in live Monday and Tuesday to complete 3 homeworks that you are supposed to hand in on Wednesday and u realised that you have to redo one of them, and when you think its finally over when you disgustedly throw the condemned pieces of paper onto the teacher's table, just to realise you kena wack by another 4 homework on the same day??
What happens when you go to the Seattle Art Museum as the living dead to attempt to appreciate art that when you are living already find it hard to do so?
What happens when every action, every word you say, is being scrutinized, when you live in emotional fear, fear of the secrecy sworn against you? When our action may cause an uproar or outcry that is muted from you?
What happens when final exams are in 2 weeks time, and you haven't started studying for it because of all the homework you still have, and you feel that your peers are not studying but in fact still partying and snowboarding their weekends away?
What happens when you think you've planned spring break all out, but it crumbles upon you because of ur folly to check carefully enough, and it forces you to rethink ur route where the end point is constrained because of the booked flight?
What happens when everyone is going out over the weekend, while you will be staying at in the apartment ?
My MOM will say: " Go to God in prayer"
And that is what I'll do.....
Monday, March 03, 2008
The Carefully threaded Path~
We are learning new things everyday. The already vast amount of knowledge and skills that continues to expand can't be held within our small little minds which although has such promising greatness, falls short of its potential because of our inability to let it reach its greatness. More often than not, one will learn new things only because circumstances forces one to learn it, and not out of choice. For example, in the case of adaptation, we would be forced to learn new things when thrown into unfamiliar environments.
Adaptation is something I am not unfamiliar to, and it would be safe to say that I am rather adept at adapting. Not until now. Not until I've met a new form of adaptation that is required of me. A new form that requires even more focus and concentration due to the environment in which its nature is volatile. So volatile such that one cannot be too comfortable in it. Because when you think you have adapted, its precisely the point where you have failed at adapting by getting too comfortable. Its like walking on the small narrow path up a mountain, where both sides are cliffs. One small wrong step because of your folly from the thinking that you are already confident of scaling the mountain will lead to disastrous outcomes.
People say I am guarded and oversensitive. I lie that I am not. The reason for which is to attempt to adapt, but once I adapt and let my guard down, I fail miserably at it. I need to be on my guard, especially with the things I say, for I have failed miserably in that aspect. Words can kill, words can heal. Sometimes you wish that you can take back what you say, but once the firing pin strikes, there is no turning back. There is a need for constant vigilance, for sensitivism and a level of guard, to ensure that we stay on the path that will lead us to greater things, the path that will lead to greener pastures.
We are learning new things everyday. The already vast amount of knowledge and skills that continues to expand can't be held within our small little minds which although has such promising greatness, falls short of its potential because of our inability to let it reach its greatness. More often than not, one will learn new things only because circumstances forces one to learn it, and not out of choice. For example, in the case of adaptation, we would be forced to learn new things when thrown into unfamiliar environments.
Adaptation is something I am not unfamiliar to, and it would be safe to say that I am rather adept at adapting. Not until now. Not until I've met a new form of adaptation that is required of me. A new form that requires even more focus and concentration due to the environment in which its nature is volatile. So volatile such that one cannot be too comfortable in it. Because when you think you have adapted, its precisely the point where you have failed at adapting by getting too comfortable. Its like walking on the small narrow path up a mountain, where both sides are cliffs. One small wrong step because of your folly from the thinking that you are already confident of scaling the mountain will lead to disastrous outcomes.
People say I am guarded and oversensitive. I lie that I am not. The reason for which is to attempt to adapt, but once I adapt and let my guard down, I fail miserably at it. I need to be on my guard, especially with the things I say, for I have failed miserably in that aspect. Words can kill, words can heal. Sometimes you wish that you can take back what you say, but once the firing pin strikes, there is no turning back. There is a need for constant vigilance, for sensitivism and a level of guard, to ensure that we stay on the path that will lead us to greater things, the path that will lead to greener pastures.
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
Lifehouse~
I have this affinity for live music, probably because I am convicted that good bands (I emphasize gd) sound so much better live than in the recording and when a golden opportunity like this is presented, I can't miss it for the world. Lifehouse started their Disarray tour in the US yesterday, and Seattle was their 2nd location. Held at Showbox SODO (SOuth of DOwntown Seattle), which turned out to be kinda like a big abandoned warehouse, furnished and fitted with a stage and acoustics. It had a nice underground feeling to it, due to the low ceiling and the wooden columns that seem to be holding the place up. In comparison, it was in between a small music club in Singapore like Wala Wala and the Indoor stadium. The showbox had the cosy-ness of a pub with a bar and restaurant and had the space needed to hold about 1000+ people. It didn't have any seats so it was an all stand kinda concert/gig. It was nice cos the standing area is kinda close to the stage, so you could see the band playing kinda close up compared to somewhere like indoor stadium where they will appear like tiny little dots if u get the cheap tickets. We arrived to meet a long queue outside its doors at 1815, and waited until about 7 till the 1st two bands started opening. Lifehouse only came out at like 9 pm, a long but well awaited wait. This probably is the 1st ROCK concert I've been to, and I would say it lived up to expectation and didn't disappoint. The band was way cool in their playing and in they sounded perfect, albeit abit loud. They played a mixture of old and new songs from their new album, and it was good that I've heard quite a few of them. Nevertheless, it was an experience that will be remembered, an experience unfortunately or fortunately wasn't caught on camera due to my folly of not bringing the charged battery out with its camera, an experience that was refreshing and inspiring that will be anticipated again in the time to come. :)
I have this affinity for live music, probably because I am convicted that good bands (I emphasize gd) sound so much better live than in the recording and when a golden opportunity like this is presented, I can't miss it for the world. Lifehouse started their Disarray tour in the US yesterday, and Seattle was their 2nd location. Held at Showbox SODO (SOuth of DOwntown Seattle), which turned out to be kinda like a big abandoned warehouse, furnished and fitted with a stage and acoustics. It had a nice underground feeling to it, due to the low ceiling and the wooden columns that seem to be holding the place up. In comparison, it was in between a small music club in Singapore like Wala Wala and the Indoor stadium. The showbox had the cosy-ness of a pub with a bar and restaurant and had the space needed to hold about 1000+ people. It didn't have any seats so it was an all stand kinda concert/gig. It was nice cos the standing area is kinda close to the stage, so you could see the band playing kinda close up compared to somewhere like indoor stadium where they will appear like tiny little dots if u get the cheap tickets. We arrived to meet a long queue outside its doors at 1815, and waited until about 7 till the 1st two bands started opening. Lifehouse only came out at like 9 pm, a long but well awaited wait. This probably is the 1st ROCK concert I've been to, and I would say it lived up to expectation and didn't disappoint. The band was way cool in their playing and in they sounded perfect, albeit abit loud. They played a mixture of old and new songs from their new album, and it was good that I've heard quite a few of them. Nevertheless, it was an experience that will be remembered, an experience unfortunately or fortunately wasn't caught on camera due to my folly of not bringing the charged battery out with its camera, an experience that was refreshing and inspiring that will be anticipated again in the time to come. :)
Monday, February 25, 2008
The Double edged Sword~
We travelers, walking toward the sun, can't see
Ahead, but looking back the very light
That blinded us shows us the way we came,
Along which blessing now appear, risen
As if from sightlessness to sight, and we,
By blessing brightly lit, keep going toward
That blessed light that yet to us is dark.
-Wendell Berry
Can't wait for the lifehouse gig tomorrow!!! :)
We travelers, walking toward the sun, can't see
Ahead, but looking back the very light
That blinded us shows us the way we came,
Along which blessing now appear, risen
As if from sightlessness to sight, and we,
By blessing brightly lit, keep going toward
That blessed light that yet to us is dark.
-Wendell Berry
Can't wait for the lifehouse gig tomorrow!!! :)
Sunday, February 24, 2008
The week~
This week felt so much more relaxing, so much more fulfiling and satisfying than the many weeks I've been here. Besides the exciting Vancouver retreat over President's day long weekend, and the visits to gay community Capitol Hill and boring Tacoma, there were the badminton sessions that were much missed last week,the receiving back of midterm exams which grades I'm very happy with (Thank god for tt), and the slowing down of classes which are much appreciated. A few of my professors postponed homework datelines from this week to next week too due to whatever reasons, which allowed me to slack more than I was prepared for, but was thankful for.
This week felt so much more relaxing, so much more fulfiling and satisfying than the many weeks I've been here. Besides the exciting Vancouver retreat over President's day long weekend, and the visits to gay community Capitol Hill and boring Tacoma, there were the badminton sessions that were much missed last week,the receiving back of midterm exams which grades I'm very happy with (Thank god for tt), and the slowing down of classes which are much appreciated. A few of my professors postponed homework datelines from this week to next week too due to whatever reasons, which allowed me to slack more than I was prepared for, but was thankful for.
Saturday, February 16, 2008
Friday, February 15, 2008
When the Going gets Tough~
This week has by far been the toughest week in Seattle for me. The amazingly high workload has forced me to hibernate and study in the apartment since Saturday, and till today I have postponed visits(to boeing), badminton sessions and the Singles Finals with Mikko, meals, good health, and valentine's day(to next year!). Thanks to God's grace and mercy, everything has gone well so far, despite the downs, there has been ups. In the centre of the storm, there is the eye. The eye is represented by the trip to Vancouver over the long weekend, where in the midst of the all the niggling tests and assignments that are blowing my mind away, there is calm and serenity. Calm to take a breather, to muster strengh to prepare for the remainder of the storm to come on Tuesday. As the old saying goes, tough times don't last,tough men do......
This week has by far been the toughest week in Seattle for me. The amazingly high workload has forced me to hibernate and study in the apartment since Saturday, and till today I have postponed visits(to boeing), badminton sessions and the Singles Finals with Mikko, meals, good health, and valentine's day(to next year!). Thanks to God's grace and mercy, everything has gone well so far, despite the downs, there has been ups. In the centre of the storm, there is the eye. The eye is represented by the trip to Vancouver over the long weekend, where in the midst of the all the niggling tests and assignments that are blowing my mind away, there is calm and serenity. Calm to take a breather, to muster strengh to prepare for the remainder of the storm to come on Tuesday. As the old saying goes, tough times don't last,tough men do......
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
Broken~
The Broken clock is a comfort
It helps me sleep tonight
Maybe it can stop tomorrow
From stealing all my time
And I am here still waiting
Though I still have my doubts
I am damaged at best
Like you've already figured out
I'm falling apart I'm barely breathing
With a broken heart
That's still beating
In the pain
There is healing
In your name
I find meaning
So I'm holding on
I'm barely holding on to you
The broken locks were a warning
You got inside my head
I tried my best to be guarded
I'm an open book instead
And I still see your reflection
Inside of my eyes
That are looking for purpose
They're still looking for life
I'm falling apart I'm barely breathing
I'm hanging on another day
Just to see what, you will throw my way
And I'm hanging on, to the words you say
You said that I will, will be okay
The broken light on the freeway
Left me here alone
I may have lost my way now
But I haven't forgotten my way home
The Broken clock is a comfort
It helps me sleep tonight
Maybe it can stop tomorrow
From stealing all my time
And I am here still waiting
Though I still have my doubts
I am damaged at best
Like you've already figured out
I'm falling apart I'm barely breathing
With a broken heart
That's still beating
In the pain
There is healing
In your name
I find meaning
So I'm holding on
I'm barely holding on to you
The broken locks were a warning
You got inside my head
I tried my best to be guarded
I'm an open book instead
And I still see your reflection
Inside of my eyes
That are looking for purpose
They're still looking for life
I'm falling apart I'm barely breathing
I'm hanging on another day
Just to see what, you will throw my way
And I'm hanging on, to the words you say
You said that I will, will be okay
The broken light on the freeway
Left me here alone
I may have lost my way now
But I haven't forgotten my way home
Monday, February 11, 2008
The Killer Week~
I knew something like that was coming. It couldn't be this chillax here. So here it is. 4 mid term examinations, 3 assignments, 5 days. If that wasn't enough, after coming back from vancouver which we would be going over the long weekend next week, 1 mid term examination and 1 assignment. So its 9 days of 5 mid term examinations and 4 assignments. Wish me luck....
I knew something like that was coming. It couldn't be this chillax here. So here it is. 4 mid term examinations, 3 assignments, 5 days. If that wasn't enough, after coming back from vancouver which we would be going over the long weekend next week, 1 mid term examination and 1 assignment. So its 9 days of 5 mid term examinations and 4 assignments. Wish me luck....
Saturday, February 09, 2008
CNY~
No ang baos, no meeting up with friends and relatives, no chinese new year cookies, no chinese new year songs, no chinese new year atmosphere. This has certainly been the 1st time I've spent chinese new year outside of Singapore, and it certainly has been chinese new year with a twist for me. The GIPers went for a "reunion" dinner on Wednesday night at a chinese restaurant called Shanghai Garden in International district, despite heavy schedules and many having midterms the day after. It was a sin if we didn't go out for dinner that night. I committed a sin by doing homework and studying on Chu yi, something which I knew I wasn't supposed to do but didn't really have much of a choice.Yesterday and today, the two presidential nominees for the Democrats dropped into town. Hilary Clinton and Barack Obama spoke at rallies held in Seattle and being curious and having the "everything also must try and must do" mentality, I spent chu yi and chu er listening to the speeches of who might eventually be the next President of the United States. It was just way cool and indescribable to see them in person, with so much admiration and respect for them. I just came back not too long ago from the first house party I went. It was kindly organized by the Singapore Student Association in UW, and we met quite a few Singaporeans studying full time or working in Seattle and friends. It was nice to get to know new people, although the mood didn't permit me to do it in a fulfiling manner. Nevertheless, it was a great night of chinese food, mixers, wine and company.
No ang baos, no meeting up with friends and relatives, no chinese new year cookies, no chinese new year songs, no chinese new year atmosphere. This has certainly been the 1st time I've spent chinese new year outside of Singapore, and it certainly has been chinese new year with a twist for me. The GIPers went for a "reunion" dinner on Wednesday night at a chinese restaurant called Shanghai Garden in International district, despite heavy schedules and many having midterms the day after. It was a sin if we didn't go out for dinner that night. I committed a sin by doing homework and studying on Chu yi, something which I knew I wasn't supposed to do but didn't really have much of a choice.Yesterday and today, the two presidential nominees for the Democrats dropped into town. Hilary Clinton and Barack Obama spoke at rallies held in Seattle and being curious and having the "everything also must try and must do" mentality, I spent chu yi and chu er listening to the speeches of who might eventually be the next President of the United States. It was just way cool and indescribable to see them in person, with so much admiration and respect for them. I just came back not too long ago from the first house party I went. It was kindly organized by the Singapore Student Association in UW, and we met quite a few Singaporeans studying full time or working in Seattle and friends. It was nice to get to know new people, although the mood didn't permit me to do it in a fulfiling manner. Nevertheless, it was a great night of chinese food, mixers, wine and company.
Tuesday, February 05, 2008
Badminton~
I've never expected myself to be playing so much badminton here in the US. I play at least 2-3 times a week, and probably because of the ongoing Intramurals tournament that I'm playing in. But, because I took part in this tournament, I've gotten to know more people that I can play with, and the badminton atmosphere here is more fun than competitive, at least at the UW where I play. I've yet to venture into the badminton clubs, which offers higher standard of badminton and as a result higher fees?? Anyway, I broke my string on Friday while playing and was totally awestruck. Luckily for me there was Wufei, this nice Chinese guy who told me where to string my racket. It turned out to be quite disastrous cos firstly, the string, a YONEX BG 65 cost me 27 USD. Yeah tt's like 40.5 Sing dollars to restring 1 racket.OMG. Nvm, as if it didn't already broke a hole in pocket, a day later the guy told me he didn't know how to restring my racket cos the shape was different from the template given in the book (They restring mostly tennis rackets), so the shop, Avanti sports told me I could only collect it today cos the badminton expert would be down to string my racket. Thank god for him. Earlier in the day I received yet another phone call. Apparently the badminton expert called me and told me that 25 lbs is too high for a badminton racket. OK MAN. So he managed to convince me to tie at 23 lbs. When I went down to the shop just now, bad news rained down on me. While they were restringing the racket they broke the string, so i have to go back again tomorrow to collect it. Well done. So much for 40.5 Sing dollars of restringing. But I'm not complaining (am i??...aha) At least i can get my racket stringed here. Tomorrow, I'll be playing badminton again with Wu Fei and Tomas, 2 of the better players I've met playing at the UW, and am definitely hoping to meet more good players:)
I've never expected myself to be playing so much badminton here in the US. I play at least 2-3 times a week, and probably because of the ongoing Intramurals tournament that I'm playing in. But, because I took part in this tournament, I've gotten to know more people that I can play with, and the badminton atmosphere here is more fun than competitive, at least at the UW where I play. I've yet to venture into the badminton clubs, which offers higher standard of badminton and as a result higher fees?? Anyway, I broke my string on Friday while playing and was totally awestruck. Luckily for me there was Wufei, this nice Chinese guy who told me where to string my racket. It turned out to be quite disastrous cos firstly, the string, a YONEX BG 65 cost me 27 USD. Yeah tt's like 40.5 Sing dollars to restring 1 racket.OMG. Nvm, as if it didn't already broke a hole in pocket, a day later the guy told me he didn't know how to restring my racket cos the shape was different from the template given in the book (They restring mostly tennis rackets), so the shop, Avanti sports told me I could only collect it today cos the badminton expert would be down to string my racket. Thank god for him. Earlier in the day I received yet another phone call. Apparently the badminton expert called me and told me that 25 lbs is too high for a badminton racket. OK MAN. So he managed to convince me to tie at 23 lbs. When I went down to the shop just now, bad news rained down on me. While they were restringing the racket they broke the string, so i have to go back again tomorrow to collect it. Well done. So much for 40.5 Sing dollars of restringing. But I'm not complaining (am i??...aha) At least i can get my racket stringed here. Tomorrow, I'll be playing badminton again with Wu Fei and Tomas, 2 of the better players I've met playing at the UW, and am definitely hoping to meet more good players:)
Friday, February 01, 2008
The Race called Life~
There are many runners in the race. Some run faster, some run slower. Some stop by for a chat. But they shouldn't linger, cos if they do, they be running other people's lives. Some will lag behind, some will run faster. Everyone will be running in different directions, but there are a few who will run together, sometimes in groups, sometimes in pairs. Those who run alone will be lonely. Those who run alone will get weary. All they want is someone to run the race with them. It could be for that short distance, it could be till the end. But, the race belongs to each individual. And each one should run his own race, because that is what defines him. For when one does not have a race to call his own, he will get lost, and will never reach the finish line, the line which when crossed leads to eternity.
There are many runners in the race. Some run faster, some run slower. Some stop by for a chat. But they shouldn't linger, cos if they do, they be running other people's lives. Some will lag behind, some will run faster. Everyone will be running in different directions, but there are a few who will run together, sometimes in groups, sometimes in pairs. Those who run alone will be lonely. Those who run alone will get weary. All they want is someone to run the race with them. It could be for that short distance, it could be till the end. But, the race belongs to each individual. And each one should run his own race, because that is what defines him. For when one does not have a race to call his own, he will get lost, and will never reach the finish line, the line which when crossed leads to eternity.
Thursday, January 31, 2008
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
Its becoming a Weekly Digest~
This message is being sent to all Faculty, Staff, and Students with the approvalof the UW Police Department.Timely Warning Notification of a Criminal Incident January 29, 2008 Strong-Arm Robbery. This message to members of the University community is being sent in theinterest of public safety and in compliance with federal law requiring timely warning notification of crimes committed on or near campus.
On January 29, 2008 at approximately 2:10 a.m., a UW student was approached byan individual and punched in the face in the stairwell between the 3rd and 4th floor of the North Tower in McCarty Hall. According to the victim, the suspect then grabbed his wallet, took $60-80, a debit card, and some Best Buy gift certificates. The suspect then threw the wallet back at the victim. Officers searched the area around the incident site and have not located a suspect.The suspect was described as an Asian male, wearing a dark grey or faded black sweatshirt, darker colored jeans. Possibly early 20's with medium length gelled hair.
A strong-arm robbery occurs when a suspect takes property directly from a person by the use of force or threat of force. There was no weapon observed by the victim.If you have any additional information about this crime, please call the University of Washington Police at (206) 685-UWPD (8973) reference incident 08-000263.
So what's new around town? Sonics finally winning a game against the NBA champions the San Antonio Spurs after a wooping 14-0 losin streak! Omg.....and we were there to experience it! It was amazing, with the Sonics winning it only in the dying minutes of the game giving the knock out punch to the Spurs in a thrilling 88-85 encounter. 3 cheers to a good end of a long day.
Everybody clap your hands.....!!
This message is being sent to all Faculty, Staff, and Students with the approvalof the UW Police Department.Timely Warning Notification of a Criminal Incident January 29, 2008 Strong-Arm Robbery. This message to members of the University community is being sent in theinterest of public safety and in compliance with federal law requiring timely warning notification of crimes committed on or near campus.
On January 29, 2008 at approximately 2:10 a.m., a UW student was approached byan individual and punched in the face in the stairwell between the 3rd and 4th floor of the North Tower in McCarty Hall. According to the victim, the suspect then grabbed his wallet, took $60-80, a debit card, and some Best Buy gift certificates. The suspect then threw the wallet back at the victim. Officers searched the area around the incident site and have not located a suspect.The suspect was described as an Asian male, wearing a dark grey or faded black sweatshirt, darker colored jeans. Possibly early 20's with medium length gelled hair.
A strong-arm robbery occurs when a suspect takes property directly from a person by the use of force or threat of force. There was no weapon observed by the victim.If you have any additional information about this crime, please call the University of Washington Police at (206) 685-UWPD (8973) reference incident 08-000263.
So what's new around town? Sonics finally winning a game against the NBA champions the San Antonio Spurs after a wooping 14-0 losin streak! Omg.....and we were there to experience it! It was amazing, with the Sonics winning it only in the dying minutes of the game giving the knock out punch to the Spurs in a thrilling 88-85 encounter. 3 cheers to a good end of a long day.
Everybody clap your hands.....!!
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
The New Colour is White~
You know what I think of when I took out my blue pen from my pencil case today? Monday blues. Ok nvm. It was a great weekend, studying and doing work, and more doing work, and yeah more studying. Homework suddenly felt like its piling up, and finished just on time, compared to the 1st 2 weeks where I had 1 or 2 buffer days to brush up my homework. Something magical happened this weekend though. I won't tell you what it is, but I'll give you a clue:)
It was during Thermodynamics class, when the air was full of anticipation , because everyone was listening intently to what TA Juan had to say about tomorrow's Mid Term Exam (Yes I have mid term exam tomorrow) that at the corner of one's eye one could see from the classroom window white little specks of dust like particles falling from the sky slowly with such grace and unfortunately purpose - to melt upon its' landing surface almost instantly. But nevertheless, the sight of something so white and pure just erased all the blue-ness in the Monday today. A sudden gush of excitement hit me with so much impulse it still didn't blow me away....HAHA! No more fairy tale like story. I played my 2nd round of singles against a swede today and I had to admit he was a tougher opponent than expected. He made me sweat like never before while playing badminton in the US, and I think I made him sweat quite abit too. Now only if the sweat drop that fell from the tip of my hair could crystallize into snow crystals before hitting the ground......
You know what I think of when I took out my blue pen from my pencil case today? Monday blues. Ok nvm. It was a great weekend, studying and doing work, and more doing work, and yeah more studying. Homework suddenly felt like its piling up, and finished just on time, compared to the 1st 2 weeks where I had 1 or 2 buffer days to brush up my homework. Something magical happened this weekend though. I won't tell you what it is, but I'll give you a clue:)
It was during Thermodynamics class, when the air was full of anticipation , because everyone was listening intently to what TA Juan had to say about tomorrow's Mid Term Exam (Yes I have mid term exam tomorrow) that at the corner of one's eye one could see from the classroom window white little specks of dust like particles falling from the sky slowly with such grace and unfortunately purpose - to melt upon its' landing surface almost instantly. But nevertheless, the sight of something so white and pure just erased all the blue-ness in the Monday today. A sudden gush of excitement hit me with so much impulse it still didn't blow me away....HAHA! No more fairy tale like story. I played my 2nd round of singles against a swede today and I had to admit he was a tougher opponent than expected. He made me sweat like never before while playing badminton in the US, and I think I made him sweat quite abit too. Now only if the sweat drop that fell from the tip of my hair could crystallize into snow crystals before hitting the ground......
Guitar centre in Seattle! Awesome!
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
The Magical Aspect~
Besides the fact that school uncannily resembles hogwarts, undeniably to many even the locals, there are many magical aspects of the US. One of which is getting 10 marks deducted for using pen on an assignment. A first of many for me here, the Teaching assistant said that if we want to use pen, we would have to write only on one side of the paper, else it would be messy. I took a 2 second blank stare before I registered what he actually said, although I didn't quite comprehend the meaning of his sentence. There's like seriously no link man. Did I tell you that my TA has the persona of the male equivalent of a blonde?
Ben and Jerry's. Chunky Monkey's. 1 TUB. USD$3.33=SGD$5.00. If you couldn't believe that on the 1st look I'll forgive you, cos its so magical. I've never pigged on a tub of chunky monkey's while surfing the net and all, the most i've had was like a scoop that will cost me close to the amount I pay for a tub here. Well, despite the weather, we are still going strong on the ice cream! Then there's Pandora, the music genome project which we can't use in Singapore(wth right??) Because of its unique mapping nature of songs to the listener which might induce an interest, I have today alone got to know 8 tres beau songs.
Honestly I'm not a real fan of ORIGINAL Polo Raulph Lauren T shirts, not because they don't look nice( I have 3 fake ones), but because they don't cost nice. Fortunately, there's a spell you can cast to bring the price down. Easy peazy. Just say "Factory Outlets!" and viola, a 100 plus Sing dollar Original Polo Shirt magically reduced itself to 30 Sing dollars! Say the magic word again and u get a pair of Nike shoes for 45 Sing! Its so magical, its irressistable. Well this is probably basic magic 101 for dummies. There are so much more to come, much more than one can fathom, perhaps because of its magical nature, that is not meant to be understood and comprehended, but to be accepted just as it is.
Besides the fact that school uncannily resembles hogwarts, undeniably to many even the locals, there are many magical aspects of the US. One of which is getting 10 marks deducted for using pen on an assignment. A first of many for me here, the Teaching assistant said that if we want to use pen, we would have to write only on one side of the paper, else it would be messy. I took a 2 second blank stare before I registered what he actually said, although I didn't quite comprehend the meaning of his sentence. There's like seriously no link man. Did I tell you that my TA has the persona of the male equivalent of a blonde?
Ben and Jerry's. Chunky Monkey's. 1 TUB. USD$3.33=SGD$5.00. If you couldn't believe that on the 1st look I'll forgive you, cos its so magical. I've never pigged on a tub of chunky monkey's while surfing the net and all, the most i've had was like a scoop that will cost me close to the amount I pay for a tub here. Well, despite the weather, we are still going strong on the ice cream! Then there's Pandora, the music genome project which we can't use in Singapore(wth right??) Because of its unique mapping nature of songs to the listener which might induce an interest, I have today alone got to know 8 tres beau songs.
Honestly I'm not a real fan of ORIGINAL Polo Raulph Lauren T shirts, not because they don't look nice( I have 3 fake ones), but because they don't cost nice. Fortunately, there's a spell you can cast to bring the price down. Easy peazy. Just say "Factory Outlets!" and viola, a 100 plus Sing dollar Original Polo Shirt magically reduced itself to 30 Sing dollars! Say the magic word again and u get a pair of Nike shoes for 45 Sing! Its so magical, its irressistable. Well this is probably basic magic 101 for dummies. There are so much more to come, much more than one can fathom, perhaps because of its magical nature, that is not meant to be understood and comprehended, but to be accepted just as it is.
Sorry but i can't resist putting up these pics cos I'm just so happy with the buy!
Monday, January 21, 2008
Honesty the best Policy?
How far would one go to achieve his cause? In a recent article in The Daily, which is the daily newspaper of the University of Washington, writers interviewed medical students who cheat to pass/do well in exams. And when asked why they do it, they simply replied: "I want to help people." Today there was an incident which I personally didn't feel very comfortable about. It involved a little bit of social irresponsibility and dishonesty. I was urked by what happened, and hence the inspiration for this post. In the first example, the student cheated to achieve his dream and his goal, which was to help people and save lives by successfully graduating from med school. Well, this is certainly a noble and respected dream. But however, the path to graduation is a grey one as he cheated to pass his exam. Hence, would one consider the student as a a morally upright or downright(u get my pt) person? Personally, I am still in a dilemma regarding this situation. In the second scenario, how far would one go to save money? To the extent of undermining one's character and principles? I can be thrifty, but I definitely wouldn't go down to a level like this just to save a litle bit of money to fuel my leisure expenditure. Being in a foreign land and having only so much finances, being thrifty is definitely on everyone's mind. But unless one has a noble cause that would stupefy other people(like me) and cause them to go into deep thought, honesty is still the best policy around.
How far would one go to achieve his cause? In a recent article in The Daily, which is the daily newspaper of the University of Washington, writers interviewed medical students who cheat to pass/do well in exams. And when asked why they do it, they simply replied: "I want to help people." Today there was an incident which I personally didn't feel very comfortable about. It involved a little bit of social irresponsibility and dishonesty. I was urked by what happened, and hence the inspiration for this post. In the first example, the student cheated to achieve his dream and his goal, which was to help people and save lives by successfully graduating from med school. Well, this is certainly a noble and respected dream. But however, the path to graduation is a grey one as he cheated to pass his exam. Hence, would one consider the student as a a morally upright or downright(u get my pt) person? Personally, I am still in a dilemma regarding this situation. In the second scenario, how far would one go to save money? To the extent of undermining one's character and principles? I can be thrifty, but I definitely wouldn't go down to a level like this just to save a litle bit of money to fuel my leisure expenditure. Being in a foreign land and having only so much finances, being thrifty is definitely on everyone's mind. But unless one has a noble cause that would stupefy other people(like me) and cause them to go into deep thought, honesty is still the best policy around.
Friday, January 18, 2008
Assimilation~
Someone talked to me in Aeronautics class today which only lasted 5 minutes. I was cursing and swearing on my way out of class that I had to drag myself out of bed at 7 to come for 5 minutes of class which was supposed to last for 2 hours, and had a gruelling but fufilling 6 hours of break before the next lesson at 1430. Todd, I will remember him for quite a while, as I was seriously contemplating the time I would break silence in class, and how to do so, especially when the class is so tightly knit,somewhat similar to the aerospace cohort back in NTU. It is, in fact easier for them to reach out than for me to break in. Nevertheless, I was totally caught unaware by this gesture that involved turning his head 180 degrees from the board and asking me whether I was new in class. The picture I painted in my head was more like just asking the guy sitting next to me how to do a tutorial question. I had a study session with a new found friend from Thermodynamics class today also. Similar circumstances brought us together, and I hope it will be a weekly thing, cos he seems like kinda a nice guy. Played badminton today, and got to know an AngMo guy tt plays not bad badminton!! Finally found a kaki that Randy and I can play with. For dinner, we ate at a fast food chain called Jack in the Box, for the sole reason of getting a coupon that can redeem one a free Sonics NBA game. So I'm gonna watch my 2nd NBA game for free! And it would most probably be Sonics Vs Spurs on 29th Jan. Hence, if you define assmilation as getting into the culture, mixing with the local community, and watching NBA games, I would say that I have begun the process, albeit a slow one. And boy am I glad it finally did.
Someone talked to me in Aeronautics class today which only lasted 5 minutes. I was cursing and swearing on my way out of class that I had to drag myself out of bed at 7 to come for 5 minutes of class which was supposed to last for 2 hours, and had a gruelling but fufilling 6 hours of break before the next lesson at 1430. Todd, I will remember him for quite a while, as I was seriously contemplating the time I would break silence in class, and how to do so, especially when the class is so tightly knit,somewhat similar to the aerospace cohort back in NTU. It is, in fact easier for them to reach out than for me to break in. Nevertheless, I was totally caught unaware by this gesture that involved turning his head 180 degrees from the board and asking me whether I was new in class. The picture I painted in my head was more like just asking the guy sitting next to me how to do a tutorial question. I had a study session with a new found friend from Thermodynamics class today also. Similar circumstances brought us together, and I hope it will be a weekly thing, cos he seems like kinda a nice guy. Played badminton today, and got to know an AngMo guy tt plays not bad badminton!! Finally found a kaki that Randy and I can play with. For dinner, we ate at a fast food chain called Jack in the Box, for the sole reason of getting a coupon that can redeem one a free Sonics NBA game. So I'm gonna watch my 2nd NBA game for free! And it would most probably be Sonics Vs Spurs on 29th Jan. Hence, if you define assmilation as getting into the culture, mixing with the local community, and watching NBA games, I would say that I have begun the process, albeit a slow one. And boy am I glad it finally did.
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
Cause~
"Hey there, you've got time for g.... rights?"
"Sorry?"
"You've got time for gay rights?"
"Oh no, I'm sorry.."
Back at home, it isn't an unfamiliar sight to see people standing around the streets, holding clipboards, wearing the unmistakably contrasting lineyard. Most of the time, they'll fall into the category of insurance agents, credit card promoters, students dong surveys, or people from charitable organizations. Here, people stand around in the cold blistering wind to talk to you about what they believe in. Be it gay rights, a cause for gobal warming, or a religious crusade, people are not afraid to stand up for what they believe in, to try to propogate as much as they can despite the criticisms and insults that rain down upon them. They still believe their cause in their heart. I have been constantly reiterating the point about the purpose of "doing things". More often than not (you can try to disprove the skeptic me), monetary gains is the driving force for alot of things in Singapore. Here as it seems, PASSION is the main driving force. Passion drives the actions of those who believe in their cause and are courageous enough to express it. It would certainly be nice to see some of this passion at home.
Would you stand up for a cause?
"Hey there, you've got time for g.... rights?"
"Sorry?"
"You've got time for gay rights?"
"Oh no, I'm sorry.."
Back at home, it isn't an unfamiliar sight to see people standing around the streets, holding clipboards, wearing the unmistakably contrasting lineyard. Most of the time, they'll fall into the category of insurance agents, credit card promoters, students dong surveys, or people from charitable organizations. Here, people stand around in the cold blistering wind to talk to you about what they believe in. Be it gay rights, a cause for gobal warming, or a religious crusade, people are not afraid to stand up for what they believe in, to try to propogate as much as they can despite the criticisms and insults that rain down upon them. They still believe their cause in their heart. I have been constantly reiterating the point about the purpose of "doing things". More often than not (you can try to disprove the skeptic me), monetary gains is the driving force for alot of things in Singapore. Here as it seems, PASSION is the main driving force. Passion drives the actions of those who believe in their cause and are courageous enough to express it. It would certainly be nice to see some of this passion at home.
Would you stand up for a cause?
Monday, January 14, 2008
This is Scary..Well Some parts of it~
| What Hamon Means |
 You are truly an original person. You have amazing ideas, and the power to carry them out. Success comes rather easily for you... especially in business and academia. Some people find you to be selfish and a bit overbearing. You're a strong person. You are usually the best at everything ... you strive for perfection. You are confident, authoritative, and aggressive. You have the classic "Type A" personality. You are confident, self assured, and capable. You are not easily intimidated. You master any and all skills easily. You don't have to work hard for what you want. You make your life out to be exactly how you want it. And you'll knock down anyone who gets in your way! You are well rounded, with a complete perspective on life. You are solid and dependable. You are loyal, and people can count on you. At times, you can be a bit too serious. You tend to put too much pressure on yourself. You are very intuitive and wise. You understand the world better than most people. You also have a very active imagination. You often get carried away with your thoughts. You are prone to a little paranoia and jealousy. You sometimes go overboard in interpreting signals. |
A Beautiful Weekend~
Well, we threw homework out the window and just enjoyed the weekend. Or at least I knew I did, and definitely enticed my fellow Campus heights peers into following suit. 8-9 people cramped in room #305 to watch "I am Legend" and "Good Luck Chuck" on Friday and Saturday night respectively from a 12" laptop screen. Saturday, we visited the Underground Tour in Seattle downtown. It tells you the history of the City, and how because of politics, business, corruption, natural landscape and a huge fire disaster which may actually have turned out to be a blessing in disguise, Seattle City is built upon the ruins of its old city that was burned down in a fire. These ruins still remain in the underground of Seattle's downtown, and hence the name of the tour. It was an eye opener and the tour definitely tickled my imagination to wonder what lies beneath the street, may be something more complex and deep than it actually is.
Today, Randy, Huifen, Juanita and I took 3 buses on a 1 hour journey to get to Mercer Island Covenant Church, and we were reveling at how after 3 weeks in Seattle, we finally gone to some other part of Seattle other than the University district and downtown. Mercer Island is like the Bukit Timah of Singapore, where the rich people live. Paul Allen, co founder of Microsoft stays at Mercer Island. And Bill gates himself stays not too far from the island. Anyhow, the 3rd church that I've been to was kinda nice, it gives a Barker Road feel, and the people there are all very friendly and warm. Joshua and Jessica from BRMC goes to the church as well! And they gave all 4 of us a lift back to Campus heights after service, which we are eternally (or maybe just me) grateful of!
Tomorrow, I'm going to watch my 1st ever LIVE NBA game between the Seattle Supersonics and the LA Lakers at the Key Arena in downtown...WOoHOo!! Its gonna be a fun filled week with a long weekend trip to Portland Oregon, which is just 3 hours south of Seattle. But before we go, I'll need to finish up my homework. I realised that every weekend is an opportunity for us to explore around Seattle as much as we can, and we should take every opportunity that is presented to us. Hence, the challenge now would be to finish all academic work within the week, such that weekends can be totally free for leisure activities.
We finally managed to bask in Seattle Sunshine over the weekend, seeing clear blue sky in the day and a bright moon at night. Most of the time, its either cloudy or wet. Truly, this weekend was beautiful, and is probably a small glimpse of what we are going to expect at the end of Winter, and the start of a Sunny Spring.
P.S. - All photos and videos would be uploaded on facebook, so don't expect to find any here!!
Well, we threw homework out the window and just enjoyed the weekend. Or at least I knew I did, and definitely enticed my fellow Campus heights peers into following suit. 8-9 people cramped in room #305 to watch "I am Legend" and "Good Luck Chuck" on Friday and Saturday night respectively from a 12" laptop screen. Saturday, we visited the Underground Tour in Seattle downtown. It tells you the history of the City, and how because of politics, business, corruption, natural landscape and a huge fire disaster which may actually have turned out to be a blessing in disguise, Seattle City is built upon the ruins of its old city that was burned down in a fire. These ruins still remain in the underground of Seattle's downtown, and hence the name of the tour. It was an eye opener and the tour definitely tickled my imagination to wonder what lies beneath the street, may be something more complex and deep than it actually is.
Today, Randy, Huifen, Juanita and I took 3 buses on a 1 hour journey to get to Mercer Island Covenant Church, and we were reveling at how after 3 weeks in Seattle, we finally gone to some other part of Seattle other than the University district and downtown. Mercer Island is like the Bukit Timah of Singapore, where the rich people live. Paul Allen, co founder of Microsoft stays at Mercer Island. And Bill gates himself stays not too far from the island. Anyhow, the 3rd church that I've been to was kinda nice, it gives a Barker Road feel, and the people there are all very friendly and warm. Joshua and Jessica from BRMC goes to the church as well! And they gave all 4 of us a lift back to Campus heights after service, which we are eternally (or maybe just me) grateful of!
Tomorrow, I'm going to watch my 1st ever LIVE NBA game between the Seattle Supersonics and the LA Lakers at the Key Arena in downtown...WOoHOo!! Its gonna be a fun filled week with a long weekend trip to Portland Oregon, which is just 3 hours south of Seattle. But before we go, I'll need to finish up my homework. I realised that every weekend is an opportunity for us to explore around Seattle as much as we can, and we should take every opportunity that is presented to us. Hence, the challenge now would be to finish all academic work within the week, such that weekends can be totally free for leisure activities.
We finally managed to bask in Seattle Sunshine over the weekend, seeing clear blue sky in the day and a bright moon at night. Most of the time, its either cloudy or wet. Truly, this weekend was beautiful, and is probably a small glimpse of what we are going to expect at the end of Winter, and the start of a Sunny Spring.
P.S. - All photos and videos would be uploaded on facebook, so don't expect to find any here!!
Thursday, January 10, 2008
School~
Culture shock phase 2. Its surprising how when the lessons start at 0830 in the morning, and the class is like almost filled at 0820. At NTU, when lessons start at 0830, people can be strolling in at 0845. When the professor lectures, no one talks. The only talking that goes on is when a student asks a question and the professor answers it. In NTU, we could be joking away or talking or playing or whatsoever. When the bell rings, people literally stop listening to the professor and they just start to pack up. Students seem more enthusiastic in class, spontaneously asking questions and clarifying their doubts. In NTU, we are like mice who can only squeak when the Professors are more than ready to answer our queries.In NTU, even when the time is up, students will still sit still and listen, either that or they ponder within their minds whether or not they should leave, and whether or not they would implicate themselves if they do so. Here, we would have to hand up our homework (tutorials), and it could comprise as much as 40% of our total grade. We can't just easily put a question away if we cannot solve it. Its do or die. In NTU, we could just go to class without doing tutorials and just copy solutions.
Constant vigilance, and so it seems that the US education system is promoting. One that doesn't focus much on examinations, but on day to day work. Now burning the midnight oil wouldn't save one from the abyss of procrastination here because exams are only 30%. Fundamentals are constantly emphasized and it is important that we grasp the concepts and understand the underlying principles. On the contrary, grades and examinations govern the education in Singapore. Sadly, but its reality. One might and can only wonder where the passion disappeared to, for the process is as important as the end result, it might even be of greater importance.
Culture shock phase 2. Its surprising how when the lessons start at 0830 in the morning, and the class is like almost filled at 0820. At NTU, when lessons start at 0830, people can be strolling in at 0845. When the professor lectures, no one talks. The only talking that goes on is when a student asks a question and the professor answers it. In NTU, we could be joking away or talking or playing or whatsoever. When the bell rings, people literally stop listening to the professor and they just start to pack up. Students seem more enthusiastic in class, spontaneously asking questions and clarifying their doubts. In NTU, we are like mice who can only squeak when the Professors are more than ready to answer our queries.In NTU, even when the time is up, students will still sit still and listen, either that or they ponder within their minds whether or not they should leave, and whether or not they would implicate themselves if they do so. Here, we would have to hand up our homework (tutorials), and it could comprise as much as 40% of our total grade. We can't just easily put a question away if we cannot solve it. Its do or die. In NTU, we could just go to class without doing tutorials and just copy solutions.
Constant vigilance, and so it seems that the US education system is promoting. One that doesn't focus much on examinations, but on day to day work. Now burning the midnight oil wouldn't save one from the abyss of procrastination here because exams are only 30%. Fundamentals are constantly emphasized and it is important that we grasp the concepts and understand the underlying principles. On the contrary, grades and examinations govern the education in Singapore. Sadly, but its reality. One might and can only wonder where the passion disappeared to, for the process is as important as the end result, it might even be of greater importance.
Tuesday, January 08, 2008
The IMA~
The IMA, in short for the Intramural Activities Building is one helluva place that can thrash any sporting facility in Singapore hands down. When one has such a wonderful sporting facility like this, one can't help but exercise more often. What draws one there would be the seemingly infinite number of threadmills and stepping machines on the 1st and 3rd storey of the building, a dedicated free weights room, an indoor pool, 4 gyms equipped with 8 indoor basketball courts that can be converted to volleyball and badminton courts, a 200m indoor track on the 3rd storey, an indoor rockclimbing wall.....and the list goes on. One also has a locker and tradeable towel that he can receive when he signs up free at the locker counter. Amazing stuff....I think i'll probably exercise more here in Seattle than in Singapore, considering the state of the art facilities available and other perks such as eye candys. If this ain't already a strong culture shock, the showers in the locker rooms are open concept style. Imagine a lampost, with 4 shower heads attached to it at 4 evenly spread out points. Imagine an open space, with around 5-6 of these lamposts. That's the shower area. Imagine if all but 1 shower head are used, and u have to use that one empty shower head. Now, just don't drop the soap bar........
The IMA, in short for the Intramural Activities Building is one helluva place that can thrash any sporting facility in Singapore hands down. When one has such a wonderful sporting facility like this, one can't help but exercise more often. What draws one there would be the seemingly infinite number of threadmills and stepping machines on the 1st and 3rd storey of the building, a dedicated free weights room, an indoor pool, 4 gyms equipped with 8 indoor basketball courts that can be converted to volleyball and badminton courts, a 200m indoor track on the 3rd storey, an indoor rockclimbing wall.....and the list goes on. One also has a locker and tradeable towel that he can receive when he signs up free at the locker counter. Amazing stuff....I think i'll probably exercise more here in Seattle than in Singapore, considering the state of the art facilities available and other perks such as eye candys. If this ain't already a strong culture shock, the showers in the locker rooms are open concept style. Imagine a lampost, with 4 shower heads attached to it at 4 evenly spread out points. Imagine an open space, with around 5-6 of these lamposts. That's the shower area. Imagine if all but 1 shower head are used, and u have to use that one empty shower head. Now, just don't drop the soap bar........
Sunday, January 06, 2008
Factory Outlets~
It took us an early morning call, 2 hours and 3 buses to brave the unexpected chilly winds and cold weather to get to the Seattle Premium Outlets , but it was a worthwhile trip which reaped many returns. Spent like 6 hours at the place, just marveling at the prices of the branded goods on offer, all seeminginly unbelievable, but seeing is believing. And one starts to wonder why we would have to pay so much at a retail outlet in Singapore or anywhere else, when what another would be paying halfway across the world would be dirt compared to the amount that we pay. So much on offer, but only so much I can buy for the moment. It was painfully difficult to control the urge to get all the stuff that I want, considering I could easily spend hundreds on clothes and accessories only on the 1oth day of my exhcange. Rationality won compulsiveness. In the end, I settled with my first gap and levi's shirts, both of which cost S$15. Happy and satisfied. No doubt that I will return to the Factory outlets, and maybe more often in the Spring season to catch the Spring Sales. For now, its 2 more days to the start of school, 2 more days to the end of holidays (depending on how one defines it) , 2 more days to the start of mugging, 2 more days to embrace the next stage of culture shock.
It took us an early morning call, 2 hours and 3 buses to brave the unexpected chilly winds and cold weather to get to the Seattle Premium Outlets , but it was a worthwhile trip which reaped many returns. Spent like 6 hours at the place, just marveling at the prices of the branded goods on offer, all seeminginly unbelievable, but seeing is believing. And one starts to wonder why we would have to pay so much at a retail outlet in Singapore or anywhere else, when what another would be paying halfway across the world would be dirt compared to the amount that we pay. So much on offer, but only so much I can buy for the moment. It was painfully difficult to control the urge to get all the stuff that I want, considering I could easily spend hundreds on clothes and accessories only on the 1oth day of my exhcange. Rationality won compulsiveness. In the end, I settled with my first gap and levi's shirts, both of which cost S$15. Happy and satisfied. No doubt that I will return to the Factory outlets, and maybe more often in the Spring season to catch the Spring Sales. For now, its 2 more days to the start of school, 2 more days to the end of holidays (depending on how one defines it) , 2 more days to the start of mugging, 2 more days to embrace the next stage of culture shock.
Thursday, January 03, 2008
Academia~
It is kinda interesting how you finally meet someone who you have corresponded with over the past 2 months without knowing who the person is or how the person looks like, to the point where you could have and I actually have mistaken a lady for a guy. Met with the academic advisors of the Aeronautics and Mechanical Engineering departments today to sort out the registering of my subjects, and I'm relieved to say that the months of hard work and research has paid off! I've gotten all my courses that I've requested for. For the first time in university history, I'm taking the maximum credits a student can take, but I'm ending school everyday like I'm in Secondary school. I'm not too sure why, but my timetable seems to be very empty, something which I'm not really used to. Well, I guess this is academic life in the US!
Shifting from one worry to the next, textbooks in US are super expensive! I wonder why a USD$150 textbook can be sold in Singapore for S$30....It just doesn't make any cents. Luckily, I brought a text from Singapore that can cover me for 2 courses, now I'll just have to worry abt the rest.....
It is kinda interesting how you finally meet someone who you have corresponded with over the past 2 months without knowing who the person is or how the person looks like, to the point where you could have and I actually have mistaken a lady for a guy. Met with the academic advisors of the Aeronautics and Mechanical Engineering departments today to sort out the registering of my subjects, and I'm relieved to say that the months of hard work and research has paid off! I've gotten all my courses that I've requested for. For the first time in university history, I'm taking the maximum credits a student can take, but I'm ending school everyday like I'm in Secondary school. I'm not too sure why, but my timetable seems to be very empty, something which I'm not really used to. Well, I guess this is academic life in the US!
Shifting from one worry to the next, textbooks in US are super expensive! I wonder why a USD$150 textbook can be sold in Singapore for S$30....It just doesn't make any cents. Luckily, I brought a text from Singapore that can cover me for 2 courses, now I'll just have to worry abt the rest.....
Wednesday, January 02, 2008
The Roooom~
Finally after 3 days in Seattle, I've gotten my room and managed to call some place home. Small but cosy, cramp but sufficient. Not bad right, haha...Jon and I purposedly tidied the bed before we took the shot, and I think most of the time it would not be in the state that you see it in. Our room faces West, so we get a nice sunset view from our window, albeit an early one, and to the left of our window is a view of the number 5 Freeway. In our room, we have a fridge and microwave, so hot food and cold drinks are just a step away when we need it. But because of the small floor area of the room, there is a lacking of shelvings and cabinets so right now, we just have to make do with what we have. Today we cooked our virgin meal, a chinese "Zar Chai Peng" dinner that consisted of black pepper chicken, oyster sauce kailan and omelette with mushrooms. Tomorrow, its settling school stuff and probably going to the IMA, the Intra Mural Activity Centre to exercise and stuff. Nothing much to do over the week before school starts, but we might be planning a weekend Ski trip to the Snowquelmie Summit which we hope will eventually happen from the 4th to 6th of January. The inefficiencies of the Americans especially during their Holiday Season has led to many inconveniences in planning, something we Singporeans might not be very used to. Professor Aaron, the director of the International Office in UW who gave us a welcome speech at the orientation told us, we would experience "Culture Shock". Perhaps this first experience working with the Americans will be the introduction of the many "culture shocks" to come in the future.
Happy 2008!!
Do YOU have a new year resolution?
Finally after 3 days in Seattle, I've gotten my room and managed to call some place home. Small but cosy, cramp but sufficient. Not bad right, haha...Jon and I purposedly tidied the bed before we took the shot, and I think most of the time it would not be in the state that you see it in. Our room faces West, so we get a nice sunset view from our window, albeit an early one, and to the left of our window is a view of the number 5 Freeway. In our room, we have a fridge and microwave, so hot food and cold drinks are just a step away when we need it. But because of the small floor area of the room, there is a lacking of shelvings and cabinets so right now, we just have to make do with what we have. Today we cooked our virgin meal, a chinese "Zar Chai Peng" dinner that consisted of black pepper chicken, oyster sauce kailan and omelette with mushrooms. Tomorrow, its settling school stuff and probably going to the IMA, the Intra Mural Activity Centre to exercise and stuff. Nothing much to do over the week before school starts, but we might be planning a weekend Ski trip to the Snowquelmie Summit which we hope will eventually happen from the 4th to 6th of January. The inefficiencies of the Americans especially during their Holiday Season has led to many inconveniences in planning, something we Singporeans might not be very used to. Professor Aaron, the director of the International Office in UW who gave us a welcome speech at the orientation told us, we would experience "Culture Shock". Perhaps this first experience working with the Americans will be the introduction of the many "culture shocks" to come in the future.Happy 2008!!
Do YOU have a new year resolution?
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