So today was my first day on the internship. The office isn't that big, and the people were unexpectedly quite warm. Of course there were grumpy faces (it's a Monday), but most of them were middle-aged women so they knew how to treat people well. Like making dessert from the rice cooker in the pantry and fussing over my broadband connection.
Surprisingly I got quite a lot of work on my first day! Not that I'm complaining; in fact I think it's good, at least they trust me to do the work, and it's good training as well. My boss asked me to vet some bank insurance policy contracts and format my comments into letter form. And I'm so relieved he was quite happy with what I did. Thank God! He had to do very little editing, and zoom, off they were sent.
And I already know I have work waiting for me tomorrow.
Now if only the food was good.
Monday, February 23, 2009
Sunday, February 22, 2009
Eating escapades...!
Ok so recently I met up with K after a long, long three months for dinner. Basically, the whole later half of last year I didn't really have the chance to sit down and have a loooong talk with her, so the dinner was to make up for that, I guess. Well, the busy lady kept me waiting for I think 20-25 minutes at the reception where she worked, because she had some last minute stuff to rush out, so I finished up two business magazines and now am a whole lot smarter about SMEs and renewables. And K looked very professional, impartial and just in her get-up; even I was fooled. We went to this restaurant/eatery that served savoury and sweet crepes, which was also the place the class gathering that I could not turn up for took place, and the food wasn't that bad at all, surprisingly! Changed my perception of crepes. Shared the tiramisu crepe dessert, which was crepey in an unexpected way. The meals weren't exactly value for money, but not bad either lah. At least rats didn't drop out of the ceiling.
OH WAIT OF COURSE NOT, because there wasn't any ceiling; we were surrounded by the rest of Basement 1. So much so I bumped into a cousin (yes, while sitting and eating in a restaurant) and she bumped into a primary school friend (yes, while sitting and eating in a restaurant). But, despite that, we talked. About legal liggles and school-life giggles, and my evidently non-existent lovelife (and hers as well, equally evidently non-existent...?).
Here comes a point where I realise, and soon after am confounded as to why, people keep on asking, "Ooh what's going on...?" or "What do you see in your future partner?" and things along that line. I mean, don't stop asking, it's actually fine by me to discuss these birds and bees that I have yet to chance upon (sad urban world I live in), and I don't mind, I think. In fact, I guess it's in a way oppositely interesting, to get a feel of what kind of a person who doesn't really have crushes, infatuations, objects of affection or any of the sort really is like, especially in the hormonally-charged circumstance of the teenage mindset. So for now, I guess, that is a mainstay conversation topic.
Then we went to get the MOTHER'S present, which was a piggy pencilcase. The next day, we celebrated HER birthday! And I'm so glad K and I didn't go for Japanese cuisine in the end, because the FAMILY went for Momoya ala-carte buffet! Stuffed myself so much. Waiter kept giving us more than we ordered but who cares, we ate it all in the end, hahaha. I think I still managed to order for more than its worth, and that gives me a fuzzeh feeling.
And then, I went to teach Indian migrant workers. I did a conversational thing with some of them today to encourage them to speak in proper sentences, because at the moment they do not. So you know, we were exchanging questions and replies. I then asked them what they intended to do in the future, what they had planned for. And then the same question got thrown right back into my face, and I got stumped for a second.
Then I remembered and said NS.
AND THEN AND THEN I was on my way back, and I bumped into an SC junior and we went back home together. But that's not the point. So we were on the bus. And I now understand why they have those signs about how it's illegal to harass/abuse/assault the bus captain or something.
AND THEN AND THEN go figure.
OH WAIT OF COURSE NOT, because there wasn't any ceiling; we were surrounded by the rest of Basement 1. So much so I bumped into a cousin (yes, while sitting and eating in a restaurant) and she bumped into a primary school friend (yes, while sitting and eating in a restaurant). But, despite that, we talked. About legal liggles and school-life giggles, and my evidently non-existent lovelife (and hers as well, equally evidently non-existent...?).
Here comes a point where I realise, and soon after am confounded as to why, people keep on asking, "Ooh what's going on...?" or "What do you see in your future partner?" and things along that line. I mean, don't stop asking, it's actually fine by me to discuss these birds and bees that I have yet to chance upon (sad urban world I live in), and I don't mind, I think. In fact, I guess it's in a way oppositely interesting, to get a feel of what kind of a person who doesn't really have crushes, infatuations, objects of affection or any of the sort really is like, especially in the hormonally-charged circumstance of the teenage mindset. So for now, I guess, that is a mainstay conversation topic.
Then we went to get the MOTHER'S present, which was a piggy pencilcase. The next day, we celebrated HER birthday! And I'm so glad K and I didn't go for Japanese cuisine in the end, because the FAMILY went for Momoya ala-carte buffet! Stuffed myself so much. Waiter kept giving us more than we ordered but who cares, we ate it all in the end, hahaha. I think I still managed to order for more than its worth, and that gives me a fuzzeh feeling.
And then, I went to teach Indian migrant workers. I did a conversational thing with some of them today to encourage them to speak in proper sentences, because at the moment they do not. So you know, we were exchanging questions and replies. I then asked them what they intended to do in the future, what they had planned for. And then the same question got thrown right back into my face, and I got stumped for a second.
Then I remembered and said NS.
AND THEN AND THEN I was on my way back, and I bumped into an SC junior and we went back home together. But that's not the point. So we were on the bus. And I now understand why they have those signs about how it's illegal to harass/abuse/assault the bus captain or something.
AND THEN AND THEN go figure.
Monday, February 16, 2009
We are all skinny people
Ok so went for dinner with SY and YX around six or seven hours ago, at NYNY (of all places right, but we're still subsisting on a teen's budget, so). And apparently I was late.
Well that doesn't matter because SY has YX to entertain/disturb him. Hahaha.
First impressions: It's not as if I don't know them or anything, but I hadn't seen YX in three months. I recently met up with SY, so he doesn't count. Though he's apparently been working out, but I can't really tell yet. Not to worry, it'll show in I think a few more weeks? Skinny people are like that lah. So anyway, YX all of a sudden looked quite mature, possibly because of the hair, and the contacts. I think that's good (it's about time), but she didn't behave very much differently compared to three months ago, hahaha. It's good. I guess.
A few things. We sat at this table, which was very awkward for three people. Basically, none of us faced each other. While that may be a good thing FOR ME, it made it difficult to converse and all. Though it was basically me and YX just yakking away. And pointing knives here and there to make our point. SY, most of the time, did a HB and stuffed himself silly with his food, and some of YX's and mine. Skinny people are like that lah. Ok basically I'm what people would call a slow eater and YX was struggling with her food, which in itself is a strange phenomenon.
Before that, when the food just came, I took the liberty of squeezing all manner of ketchup and chilli sauce on the perimeter of their plates. (I always do that now when there're bottles of those, and a proper plate.) And after that the waiter found it hard to clear our plates; I must be one of the more problematic diners one could come across.
Then after dinner we walked around aimlessly, while talking about random stuff and throwing random insults at each other. Actually we had an aim, of getting something cold and sweet. But after that our stomachs told us otherwise. Skinny people are like that lah.
Well that doesn't matter because SY has YX to entertain/disturb him. Hahaha.
First impressions: It's not as if I don't know them or anything, but I hadn't seen YX in three months. I recently met up with SY, so he doesn't count. Though he's apparently been working out, but I can't really tell yet. Not to worry, it'll show in I think a few more weeks? Skinny people are like that lah. So anyway, YX all of a sudden looked quite mature, possibly because of the hair, and the contacts. I think that's good (it's about time), but she didn't behave very much differently compared to three months ago, hahaha. It's good. I guess.
A few things. We sat at this table, which was very awkward for three people. Basically, none of us faced each other. While that may be a good thing FOR ME, it made it difficult to converse and all. Though it was basically me and YX just yakking away. And pointing knives here and there to make our point. SY, most of the time, did a HB and stuffed himself silly with his food, and some of YX's and mine. Skinny people are like that lah. Ok basically I'm what people would call a slow eater and YX was struggling with her food, which in itself is a strange phenomenon.
Before that, when the food just came, I took the liberty of squeezing all manner of ketchup and chilli sauce on the perimeter of their plates. (I always do that now when there're bottles of those, and a proper plate.) And after that the waiter found it hard to clear our plates; I must be one of the more problematic diners one could come across.
Then after dinner we walked around aimlessly, while talking about random stuff and throwing random insults at each other. Actually we had an aim, of getting something cold and sweet. But after that our stomachs told us otherwise. Skinny people are like that lah.
Thursday, February 12, 2009
OW MY BUTT
So I went cycling with G yesterday from around 11.30 am onwards. TILL LIKE AROUND 6PM. We basically cycled A LOT, and considering I hadn't even touched any kind of bike since I think one and a half to two years ago, I think I did pretty well for myself. Can you actually believe that G actually can average an actual 30 km/h on a bike?! Crazy, hahaha. I previously thought it was 13 km/h, so you know, I was like "Oh ok, that's actually alright to handle" but NO, it was 30 km/h because of my previously messed-up hearing. But obviously I cannot handle such supersonic speeds, so for the first part of our entire adventure we only averaged 15-17 km/h, but on the way back it was more of 20-23 km/h. G kept on saying "Feel the burn...". OH YES I FELT THE BURN. Hahaha.
But it was very enjoyable, because I got to see parts of the country I don't often see, or even at all. Parts of the country where they don't resemble Singapore as well. Or it's probably because I'm not that outdoorsy. But still. And then also because cycling wasn't that boring because we could talk about quite a lot during cycling. I totally empathise, when G pointed out the place of a horrendous fall. The ground looked like it could cause a lot of pain.
We stopped by McDonald's for lunch, and later on at Changi Village for bandung. Come to think of it, those were awful choices for F&B when you are cycling, but that's done. When we were cycling back, on the home stretch, within reach of G's house, it rained. No, it POURED. And we were caught in it. So I had to bathe at the house and all. Then we played Wii after dinner, where I played a game that makes you go "What?!", and where I sadly lost at tennis for two games after I first Grand Slammed G.
But now my butt feels Grand Slammed. All because of the tiny bike seat that only supported like, what, one-third of it?! (G's seat got cushion sommore leh.) My poor butt, and sunburnt arms.
But it was very enjoyable, because I got to see parts of the country I don't often see, or even at all. Parts of the country where they don't resemble Singapore as well. Or it's probably because I'm not that outdoorsy. But still. And then also because cycling wasn't that boring because we could talk about quite a lot during cycling. I totally empathise, when G pointed out the place of a horrendous fall. The ground looked like it could cause a lot of pain.
We stopped by McDonald's for lunch, and later on at Changi Village for bandung. Come to think of it, those were awful choices for F&B when you are cycling, but that's done. When we were cycling back, on the home stretch, within reach of G's house, it rained. No, it POURED. And we were caught in it. So I had to bathe at the house and all. Then we played Wii after dinner, where I played a game that makes you go "What?!", and where I sadly lost at tennis for two games after I first Grand Slammed G.
But now my butt feels Grand Slammed. All because of the tiny bike seat that only supported like, what, one-third of it?! (G's seat got cushion sommore leh.) My poor butt, and sunburnt arms.
Sunday, February 08, 2009
Awww
The SISTER just gave me an angpow with a five-dollar note and some chocolates inside. So nice right. If you are human, say "Awwwwwwwwwwwwwww".
Maybe she's already thinking of marriage (?!). Hahaha.
Maybe she's already thinking of marriage (?!). Hahaha.
Thursday, February 05, 2009
Ratatouille
So finally I met SY today (actually, make that yesterday, considering the ungodly hour I'm typing this at). We went over to T3 (my idea, again) to have lunch. If it isn't obvious enough, I love food and every appointment I have with people MUST revolve around food. I cannot live without food, and I don't know why skinny people must diet. But I tell you, having a rat (even though it's a baby one and SY thinks it's cute, I have no idea on earth why) drop down on the table beside you, WHILE EATING, is freaky. I mean, I'm sure plenty of people have had such unpleasant encounters before, and it's definitely not impossible or anything. But when it happens to me, it feels surreal... and later on my legs felt itchy. This is all because of the slow service staff.
"Ahem, I think there seems to be a rat under that table over there, on the chair." *Points to said piece of furniture* SY just looks on nonchalantly, and apparently develops feelings for the rat.
Waitress looks befuddled just for a second. *Eyes follow my irritated finger* Her face unleashes an expression of constrained horror (so as not to further freak me out). And then she continues looking befuddled, and surreptitiously whispers to fellow waitress.
They go behind the counter, and then another waitress comes out with a wipecloth to clear up the sawdust mess on the table that the rat had conveniently left after dropping down from the ceiling (which was tastefully done by the way). But.
The rat was gone. WHAT. Come out with wipecloth catch what.
Restaurant manager comes out and offers to change our seats. All this time SY and I acted as if nothing happened; it's not nice to spoil other customers' appetites. SY said actually it wasn't the restaurant's fault, but I said (and rightly so) that the customer is eating in the restaurant, and if there is any inconvenience caused to the customer's dining, the restaurant must first claim that responsibility, and then after that shift the blame elsewhere. That is then truly the pinnacle of good customer service. Anyhow I don't blame them; if anything it's T3 I'm sure.
So we continued eating. Our appetites fortunately didn't become victims. But we didn't know where the rat had gone to. Everyone knows that if there is a bee in the room, it is better to see it than not, because even though that would freak you out, not knowing would freak you out more. Likewise in my case.
Then SY spied the rat. Running in the MIDDLE of the restaurant. WHAT. WHAT.
A waitress rushed out with broom and dustpan in hand. Couldn't catch it. SY told me not to move my feet. I freaked. Manager took over. He caught it, but not before it toured the entire restaurant. But I think all the customers deserved commendations for not raising their voices or complaining to the restaurant staff about the supposed lack of hygiene, even though they didn't know where the rat came from. Everyone basically continued eating. An SIA stewardess even spied the rat but merely looked amused, according to SY. I think she and SY share the same brain.
But I still felt itchy.
Anyway we talked, ate (Thai food, I'll never think about it the same way anymore), talked some more, and ate some more (muddy don't-know-what pie and lovely shortbread biscuits). This is basically what I do when I meet people. But the fun is in the talking. I found out things about SY (hahaha) that are so out of character for him. Like how he actually ******** **** *** ******* and even ******* *** ** *** ****. Wah so unexpected.
Thank goodness I don't have tastefully done ceilings at home.
"Ahem, I think there seems to be a rat under that table over there, on the chair." *Points to said piece of furniture* SY just looks on nonchalantly, and apparently develops feelings for the rat.
Waitress looks befuddled just for a second. *Eyes follow my irritated finger* Her face unleashes an expression of constrained horror (so as not to further freak me out). And then she continues looking befuddled, and surreptitiously whispers to fellow waitress.
They go behind the counter, and then another waitress comes out with a wipecloth to clear up the sawdust mess on the table that the rat had conveniently left after dropping down from the ceiling (which was tastefully done by the way). But.
The rat was gone. WHAT. Come out with wipecloth catch what.
Restaurant manager comes out and offers to change our seats. All this time SY and I acted as if nothing happened; it's not nice to spoil other customers' appetites. SY said actually it wasn't the restaurant's fault, but I said (and rightly so) that the customer is eating in the restaurant, and if there is any inconvenience caused to the customer's dining, the restaurant must first claim that responsibility, and then after that shift the blame elsewhere. That is then truly the pinnacle of good customer service. Anyhow I don't blame them; if anything it's T3 I'm sure.
So we continued eating. Our appetites fortunately didn't become victims. But we didn't know where the rat had gone to. Everyone knows that if there is a bee in the room, it is better to see it than not, because even though that would freak you out, not knowing would freak you out more. Likewise in my case.
Then SY spied the rat. Running in the MIDDLE of the restaurant. WHAT. WHAT.
A waitress rushed out with broom and dustpan in hand. Couldn't catch it. SY told me not to move my feet. I freaked. Manager took over. He caught it, but not before it toured the entire restaurant. But I think all the customers deserved commendations for not raising their voices or complaining to the restaurant staff about the supposed lack of hygiene, even though they didn't know where the rat came from. Everyone basically continued eating. An SIA stewardess even spied the rat but merely looked amused, according to SY. I think she and SY share the same brain.
But I still felt itchy.
Anyway we talked, ate (Thai food, I'll never think about it the same way anymore), talked some more, and ate some more (muddy don't-know-what pie and lovely shortbread biscuits). This is basically what I do when I meet people. But the fun is in the talking. I found out things about SY (hahaha) that are so out of character for him. Like how he actually ******** **** *** ******* and even ******* *** ** *** ****. Wah so unexpected.
Thank goodness I don't have tastefully done ceilings at home.
Monday, February 02, 2009
jogging!
Nowadays I exercise. I go jogging around the neighbourhood, following the road, all the way up to Expo, maybe go a few rounds around the Max Pavilion when it's empty except for this security guard whom I now am acquainted with by sight and through silent nods of greeting, and then around the Changi Business Park for a little while, and maybe circuiting the Expo carpark a few times. I used to run all the way to the Newater plant and back, but figured that change is good.
I'm not supposed to be like that. I'm supposed to be sedentary, and I'm supposed to be the kind that does not voluntarily exercise. But I guess things are different now, especially with enlistment looming, as well as the need to get off my butt. And it's refreshing, getting to enjoy the little things you never quite notice when you are in the car, on a familiar road, back to home. I've realised that where I live is actually quite ulu in Singaporean terms; there are huge plots of empty land waiting to be developed, but until they are, they are good jogging trails, because of the road network there that as yet, does not serve any building. Sometimes I do see those big white birds standing in the field (I thought those were herons, they look like them, but I doubt so), and even wild dogs further off. I usually run for about an hour, from five-plus to six-plus or seven, managing to see the sun set.
I guess things really are different now, where I'm in this limbo, where I don't really have to do much, and have the luxury of time, to do things I've never really seen the point in doing last year because of the opportunity cost. Taking things slow is a lot more fun than I imagined. The education system here really does something to you, but I choose to see it another way - it allows us to appreciate the little things more.
I'm not supposed to be like that. I'm supposed to be sedentary, and I'm supposed to be the kind that does not voluntarily exercise. But I guess things are different now, especially with enlistment looming, as well as the need to get off my butt. And it's refreshing, getting to enjoy the little things you never quite notice when you are in the car, on a familiar road, back to home. I've realised that where I live is actually quite ulu in Singaporean terms; there are huge plots of empty land waiting to be developed, but until they are, they are good jogging trails, because of the road network there that as yet, does not serve any building. Sometimes I do see those big white birds standing in the field (I thought those were herons, they look like them, but I doubt so), and even wild dogs further off. I usually run for about an hour, from five-plus to six-plus or seven, managing to see the sun set.
I guess things really are different now, where I'm in this limbo, where I don't really have to do much, and have the luxury of time, to do things I've never really seen the point in doing last year because of the opportunity cost. Taking things slow is a lot more fun than I imagined. The education system here really does something to you, but I choose to see it another way - it allows us to appreciate the little things more.
Sunday, February 01, 2009
double-duty
That's my favourite word of the week! Haha I have an affinity with alliterations. Lookie that.
The Lunar New Year has been pleasantly uneventful thus far, and surprisingly, not that it matters plenty, but hongbao takings have not dwindled but have actually increased. That is pleasantly surprising, considering the recession.
I've spent some time with the Indian migrant workers so far, and it has been very amusing and interesting. Apparently, in the Tamil language, there is no such word that connotes 'is'. So this reflects a difficulty for them in grasping the English syntax. During student demonstrations, they always end up saying things in front of the class like, "My name... Bala" or "This... a book", even after repeated corrections and all. I brought over some English picture books last week that were associated with certain parables, and they were all very interested in it; just goes to show how hungry they are to learn.
And to walk to the place where we teach them, you have to walk an entire lorong, complete with seedy atmosphere and all. Pimps cat-whistle, and sex workers mingle and patiently wait for their catch outside an imposing Hotel 81.
All in a day's work I guess.
The Lunar New Year has been pleasantly uneventful thus far, and surprisingly, not that it matters plenty, but hongbao takings have not dwindled but have actually increased. That is pleasantly surprising, considering the recession.
I've spent some time with the Indian migrant workers so far, and it has been very amusing and interesting. Apparently, in the Tamil language, there is no such word that connotes 'is'. So this reflects a difficulty for them in grasping the English syntax. During student demonstrations, they always end up saying things in front of the class like, "My name... Bala" or "This... a book", even after repeated corrections and all. I brought over some English picture books last week that were associated with certain parables, and they were all very interested in it; just goes to show how hungry they are to learn.
And to walk to the place where we teach them, you have to walk an entire lorong, complete with seedy atmosphere and all. Pimps cat-whistle, and sex workers mingle and patiently wait for their catch outside an imposing Hotel 81.
All in a day's work I guess.
Friday, January 23, 2009
overdue
Ok so I met up with G on Jan 20 for dinner, was really an overdue one; we hadn't seen each other since the last day of school. Because both of us are such nice people (and very indecisive too), we had a hard time choosing where to go for dinner. But in the end, we went to this Japanese food outlet, which is a household name in Singapore, but with my bias and all, I've only patronised it I think once (or not at all) before. Yes, it is the dreaded ***** ***** outlet.
Flashback/Context/Memories that should not be dug up:
Annoying neighbours who think other people cannot own both a condo unit and landed property except them.
Crowded roads in the housing estate because of their inconsiderate party-goers.
But anyway, review: Not fantastic at all. Fish not fresh enough. The table smells like it was not cleaned properly. Green tea not green enough. Soup too salty. Tempura not tempura enough. I think that's bad enough. Hahaha.
We had a good time though, just talking and catching up, and later on bought ice-cream and strolled around Tampines, and continued talking. Long time since I had ice cream, by the way.
We probably will meet up some more, lest it becomes overdue again.
Flashback/Context/Memories that should not be dug up:
Annoying neighbours who think other people cannot own both a condo unit and landed property except them.
Crowded roads in the housing estate because of their inconsiderate party-goers.
But anyway, review: Not fantastic at all. Fish not fresh enough. The table smells like it was not cleaned properly. Green tea not green enough. Soup too salty. Tempura not tempura enough. I think that's bad enough. Hahaha.
We had a good time though, just talking and catching up, and later on bought ice-cream and strolled around Tampines, and continued talking. Long time since I had ice cream, by the way.
We probably will meet up some more, lest it becomes overdue again.
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
eye-opener
Okay the mundane thing first: shopping.
Initially I thought my parents wanted to do CNY shopping i.e. getting all the goodies and stuff, like candy, confectionery and other crunchy, chewy, crumbly things. But no, Expo sales come first. Especially if it's the second last day and it's so close to our place (yet we don't exploit that enough). So we shopped instead for New Year clothing and all. Come to think of it, it was the first time I remember I did serious clothes shopping for the New Year. Hm. That is either a good thought, or a really bad one.
Anyhow, I'm amazed at what an amazing shopper I am! HAHAHA. I'm so serious, really. I immediately (and accurately) zoomed in on all the best deals, the deals that boasted at least more than 50% off their price tags. Okay, I know I'm el cheapo and all, but I'd rather blow a lot on food than on clothing. My tastebuds deserve the best.
And I was a prolific shopper compared to the FATHER and even the MOTHER. Just goes to show how little we shop. I think I scored around, hm, ten or eleven items within one and a half hours for both the BROTHER and myself. A big apology to the salespeople there though; I left big messes of clothing in my wake as I flitted around (who asked them to put the S's and M's at the bottom of the pile?!).
Okay, on to the more exciting bit of my day - the eye-opening bit, in a good way of course.
So the MOTHER knows a few friends committed in the area of community service, and we were invited to attend an orientation of the place around HS. HS is basically an organisation first initiated by a few doctors to cater to the local migrant worker community, and has now expanded to include quite a few charitable and commendable services, such as medical consultations, counselling, English lessons, and walk-abouts around the area i.e. Geylang, all to further extend His kingdom. I know some Singaporeans may be thinking "Geylang?! All the sex workers hanging around there; what a seedy place to be in!" and all. But hey, from what I saw tonight, there is a need there, and some people need to fill that need. Besides, the food is good and cheap there.
So okay, one part of the programme entailed a walk-about, where I was in the group that was to visit a dormitory housing Indian migrants. We walked through plenty of backlanes to get there, and obviously chanced upon many a sex worker, and other foreign workers just lazing there, either engaging in conversation or having their supper. But we were turned away when we reached; they were 'busy'. Fortunately, we managed to enter another dormitory in a shophouse. In it, there was a room that supposedly housed ten of them, with a rent that was quite reasonable, compared to more exorbitant rents that are said to exist for other migrant workers, even up to $200 a month just for a bed and a toilet shared by seventeen others. This is compounded by often unhygienic conditions (you'll never imagine the extent of it until you see it) and danger lurking everywhere, from unreasonable/abusive employers/pimps to thieving/violent co-workers.
And it was surprising that they were so eager for us to pray for them! One of them wanted us to pray for his niece that had undergone open heart surgery that very day. And out of the seven or so of us in the room, he asked ME to pray, bypassing even the person-in-charge that guided us around the area. Of course I gladly obliged. (:
Later on as we left, I realised that this was what encapsulated "missions at our doorstep", a phrase sometimes overly used (I feel) by some churches. There are so many opportunities for many Christians and non-Christians alike to serve the community in this area; many of the foreign workers here are in so much need for a friendly face among the community, and in just that hour and a half, I noticed the dire void between the citizenry and these foreign workers. It really explains, unfortunately, the Serangoon Gardens incident.
But the world will be a better place.
Initially I thought my parents wanted to do CNY shopping i.e. getting all the goodies and stuff, like candy, confectionery and other crunchy, chewy, crumbly things. But no, Expo sales come first. Especially if it's the second last day and it's so close to our place (yet we don't exploit that enough). So we shopped instead for New Year clothing and all. Come to think of it, it was the first time I remember I did serious clothes shopping for the New Year. Hm. That is either a good thought, or a really bad one.
Anyhow, I'm amazed at what an amazing shopper I am! HAHAHA. I'm so serious, really. I immediately (and accurately) zoomed in on all the best deals, the deals that boasted at least more than 50% off their price tags. Okay, I know I'm el cheapo and all, but I'd rather blow a lot on food than on clothing. My tastebuds deserve the best.
And I was a prolific shopper compared to the FATHER and even the MOTHER. Just goes to show how little we shop. I think I scored around, hm, ten or eleven items within one and a half hours for both the BROTHER and myself. A big apology to the salespeople there though; I left big messes of clothing in my wake as I flitted around (who asked them to put the S's and M's at the bottom of the pile?!).
Okay, on to the more exciting bit of my day - the eye-opening bit, in a good way of course.
So the MOTHER knows a few friends committed in the area of community service, and we were invited to attend an orientation of the place around HS. HS is basically an organisation first initiated by a few doctors to cater to the local migrant worker community, and has now expanded to include quite a few charitable and commendable services, such as medical consultations, counselling, English lessons, and walk-abouts around the area i.e. Geylang, all to further extend His kingdom. I know some Singaporeans may be thinking "Geylang?! All the sex workers hanging around there; what a seedy place to be in!" and all. But hey, from what I saw tonight, there is a need there, and some people need to fill that need. Besides, the food is good and cheap there.
So okay, one part of the programme entailed a walk-about, where I was in the group that was to visit a dormitory housing Indian migrants. We walked through plenty of backlanes to get there, and obviously chanced upon many a sex worker, and other foreign workers just lazing there, either engaging in conversation or having their supper. But we were turned away when we reached; they were 'busy'. Fortunately, we managed to enter another dormitory in a shophouse. In it, there was a room that supposedly housed ten of them, with a rent that was quite reasonable, compared to more exorbitant rents that are said to exist for other migrant workers, even up to $200 a month just for a bed and a toilet shared by seventeen others. This is compounded by often unhygienic conditions (you'll never imagine the extent of it until you see it) and danger lurking everywhere, from unreasonable/abusive employers/pimps to thieving/violent co-workers.
And it was surprising that they were so eager for us to pray for them! One of them wanted us to pray for his niece that had undergone open heart surgery that very day. And out of the seven or so of us in the room, he asked ME to pray, bypassing even the person-in-charge that guided us around the area. Of course I gladly obliged. (:
Later on as we left, I realised that this was what encapsulated "missions at our doorstep", a phrase sometimes overly used (I feel) by some churches. There are so many opportunities for many Christians and non-Christians alike to serve the community in this area; many of the foreign workers here are in so much need for a friendly face among the community, and in just that hour and a half, I noticed the dire void between the citizenry and these foreign workers. It really explains, unfortunately, the Serangoon Gardens incident.
But the world will be a better place.
Monday, January 12, 2009
Evaluation
Perhaps this is a little late, but right now, I'm going to evaluate all the A level exam papers I took last year. Sure, it's already an issue one and a half months behind, but still, I recently thought about (in a sketchy, vague way) my performance, how I felt I did. Certainly, most of us (I think everyone, probably) would acknowledge the fact that we could have done better and all that, but I think, just for the sake of it, as well as to bring some sort of closure, it would do me well to go over the motions and evaluate each and every paper. To those who may be reading this and who went through the same examination as I did last year, apologies, and if you want to, you may stop reading now. To those who don't care a bit about the last statement, do continue on.
Just a little note: while I may sound a little regretful later on, I still do know that I tried a good deal of my best in each paper, and whatever the outcome may be, I will be satisfied in that knowledge. And even if I do garner good results in papers I might appear not to be entirely happy with, please do not think that I'm being a little too modest or even that I'm overly critical of myself; the following evaluations are truly my honest perspectives on each paper. I say it as it is.
General Paper 1 (Essay): Okay, for this paper, I realised that the 12 questions set were unconventional, to say the least. Though there were familiar topics, there were also a few that were entirely foreign, in that we were never much exposed to these areas of content knowledge. On my part, I chose an essay question that I felt I had an edge in, in terms of content knowledge e.g. examples and all. But structure-wise, I felt that I could have done a better job on hindsight (but that's almost always the case for every GP essay I do). All in all, I felt it was a job well done, considering the circumstances i.e. question-wise. While it didn't examine me on my pet topics, neither did it confound me to no end.
General Paper 2 (Comprehension): It was a surprise as well, in terms of the passage that was given to us. While some may say that the content knowledge in this case would come easier to arts-inclined students like myself, I wouldn't agree entirely. The passage tested more on whether one could glean knowledge and understanding from the text, and not on whether one knew a lot about the content itself, except perhaps in the Application Question section. But even then, it was certainly do-able. I felt quite alright for this paper, and some of my peers would even say that I SHOULD feel more than alright; I acknowledge that my competency in this subject is much above average. But even then, anything can happen; it's up to God's will. (:
Mathematics Paper 1 (Pure Maths): Well, I'd thought that even with just the merely adequate grasp of the subject that I had, I'd be rather prepared for the paper. Unfortunately though, there were some questions in the paper that were, to me, overly centred on trigonometry, which under the A level syllabus here, rates only as assumed knowledge. Compared to the paper in the previous paper, the first of its kind in the revised syllabus, it had much less focus on trigonometry. Given that I'm in the IP, I'll admit that I'm a little less well-adjusted to trigonometric concepts than mainstream students are, because trigonometry, as a whole, is considered a very primary topic in the O levels, but much less so in the A levels. But that shall not be an excuse. Previously, I had only been practising other schools' preliminary examination papers as advised by my Maths teacher, but the A level paper turned out to be rather different from those. So, as you can guess, I got pretty much a rude shock that day. I felt really dejected after that paper, and yes, I would say that I also cried over it, trying to overcome a tumult of emotions. But silly me, I know I shouldn't have, because it would also affect my mental strength. I also tried not to let this on to too many people as well, given that it would not be very nice of me to also affect them during that crucial period. But this really got me working extra hard for the next Maths paper, and also got me started on the ten-year-series (a little late, but better late than never) (which I don't specifically remember being reminded to do, only the prelim papers), in a bid to prepare me for the kind of questions that would come out in the next Maths paper. And so I worked hard, and really depended on God in that space of three days.
Mathematics Paper 2 (Pure Maths and Statistics): Well, I had set myself a pretty high aim for this paper, given that I was eager to make up for whatever I had lost in the last paper. And thank God, the paper was much more manageable this time. I managed to do all the questions if I remember correctly, but of course, in trying to guesstimate my score, I left room for the potential errors. This greatly boosted my morale at that time, along with encouragements from some friends. Just want to say that, here and now, whatever my Maths grade, I will be satisfied with it. I know that I did my best with whatever I had, and the rest will be up to Him.
Literature in English Paper 1 (Reading Literature): I went into the exam hall with a little mixed emotions, no doubt I had already entrusted it to God, because no one really knows what to expect from Lit papers. But I say that, on the whole, the three essay questions were manageable. Though, the question I chose to do for the Pride and Prejudice section was a little, hm, weird. Hard to say. Again, it was not the typical kind of question I would see in the papers set in school.
Economics Paper 2 (Essays): Okay, Econs has been an up-down-up-down subject in which I'm never quite certain of the grade. One moment I may get an A, another, a C or even a D. It perhaps reveals that even though I may be quite adept at the subject in certain areas, in others, my foundation may not be so strong after all. Anyway, all that I have to say is that for this paper, the questions set were rather tricky, and were phrased in a manner that was quite different from what I was used to. For the microeconomics question, I felt that that answer was the most unsatisfactory, relatively. I felt that I answered the second part perfunctorily, and that the first part was below par as I did not cover enough ground. For the two macroeconomics questions, I felt that one was answered well, because I believed enough content and analysis and even evaluation were portioned out. The other one I had at first thought to be entirely off-point, but later on, as in I think a few weeks later on, I chanced upon the notes for that topic, and realised I had actually answered quite satisfactorily. Well, it depends. For this paper I can never be sure of my grade. Again, and I don't care if it sounds repetitive, it has been given up unto God. (:
China Studies in English Paper 1 (Case Study): After the paper I felt quite confident. Surprisingly, during practice in class, we also did some practice on the exact same topic of the case study that was examined. But later on, our CSE teacher mentioned that a certain question was rather tricky as it required us to identify as well that 2002 was the year in which power was transferred from Jiang Zemin to Hu Jintao, which I didn't quite identify (and I think the rest of the class), so that was a little bummer-ish. But all in all, I still felt alright.
Economics Paper 1 (Case Studies): Time wasn't quite on my side here, as I would have liked to finish up the last question of the second case study in a more full and polished manner. Anyhow, I felt that I actually understood most of the questions this time round (sometimes in school exams I never really quite answered to the point), and managed to provide pointed answers. So that was good. Other than that, the content material was quite understandable as well.
China Studies in English Paper 2 (Essays): The content knowledge that was required for the six essay questions was familiar to me, but again, the phrasing of certain questions left quite a lot of doubt due to the ambiguity generated. Nonetheless, I chose only the questions that I felt I was more capable in. The compulsory question was the most challenging for me, because it required analysis based on social and economic factors, and I wasn't sure whether to analyse them separately or in tandem, so I did both. The essay structure which I adopted for I think all of the questions was also slightly different. Instead of the factor-aligned structure which had been stressed upon the most during class, I opted for a more analytical approach, trying to inject more depth as and when I could, instead of only at the conclusion. It felt a little experimental, but I also felt more secure in doing that, especially since its the subject's first major appearance in the local A level syllabus.
Literature in English Paper 4 (Imagining Other Worlds): There was a rather lengthy break between this final paper and the previous one, but I tried to put the time to good use to study and just gear up for the final leg in this race. The questions were understandable, but I felt that my answer to the Practical Criticism component was a little too simple, though very understandable. I felt that the other two essays were more well-done, in that I actually put in more of what I learnt into them.
Okay, so there it is, my humble evaluation of the papers. Whatever the results, to God be the glory. (:
Just a little note: while I may sound a little regretful later on, I still do know that I tried a good deal of my best in each paper, and whatever the outcome may be, I will be satisfied in that knowledge. And even if I do garner good results in papers I might appear not to be entirely happy with, please do not think that I'm being a little too modest or even that I'm overly critical of myself; the following evaluations are truly my honest perspectives on each paper. I say it as it is.
General Paper 1 (Essay): Okay, for this paper, I realised that the 12 questions set were unconventional, to say the least. Though there were familiar topics, there were also a few that were entirely foreign, in that we were never much exposed to these areas of content knowledge. On my part, I chose an essay question that I felt I had an edge in, in terms of content knowledge e.g. examples and all. But structure-wise, I felt that I could have done a better job on hindsight (but that's almost always the case for every GP essay I do). All in all, I felt it was a job well done, considering the circumstances i.e. question-wise. While it didn't examine me on my pet topics, neither did it confound me to no end.
General Paper 2 (Comprehension): It was a surprise as well, in terms of the passage that was given to us. While some may say that the content knowledge in this case would come easier to arts-inclined students like myself, I wouldn't agree entirely. The passage tested more on whether one could glean knowledge and understanding from the text, and not on whether one knew a lot about the content itself, except perhaps in the Application Question section. But even then, it was certainly do-able. I felt quite alright for this paper, and some of my peers would even say that I SHOULD feel more than alright; I acknowledge that my competency in this subject is much above average. But even then, anything can happen; it's up to God's will. (:
Mathematics Paper 1 (Pure Maths): Well, I'd thought that even with just the merely adequate grasp of the subject that I had, I'd be rather prepared for the paper. Unfortunately though, there were some questions in the paper that were, to me, overly centred on trigonometry, which under the A level syllabus here, rates only as assumed knowledge. Compared to the paper in the previous paper, the first of its kind in the revised syllabus, it had much less focus on trigonometry. Given that I'm in the IP, I'll admit that I'm a little less well-adjusted to trigonometric concepts than mainstream students are, because trigonometry, as a whole, is considered a very primary topic in the O levels, but much less so in the A levels. But that shall not be an excuse. Previously, I had only been practising other schools' preliminary examination papers as advised by my Maths teacher, but the A level paper turned out to be rather different from those. So, as you can guess, I got pretty much a rude shock that day. I felt really dejected after that paper, and yes, I would say that I also cried over it, trying to overcome a tumult of emotions. But silly me, I know I shouldn't have, because it would also affect my mental strength. I also tried not to let this on to too many people as well, given that it would not be very nice of me to also affect them during that crucial period. But this really got me working extra hard for the next Maths paper, and also got me started on the ten-year-series (a little late, but better late than never) (which I don't specifically remember being reminded to do, only the prelim papers), in a bid to prepare me for the kind of questions that would come out in the next Maths paper. And so I worked hard, and really depended on God in that space of three days.
Mathematics Paper 2 (Pure Maths and Statistics): Well, I had set myself a pretty high aim for this paper, given that I was eager to make up for whatever I had lost in the last paper. And thank God, the paper was much more manageable this time. I managed to do all the questions if I remember correctly, but of course, in trying to guesstimate my score, I left room for the potential errors. This greatly boosted my morale at that time, along with encouragements from some friends. Just want to say that, here and now, whatever my Maths grade, I will be satisfied with it. I know that I did my best with whatever I had, and the rest will be up to Him.
Literature in English Paper 1 (Reading Literature): I went into the exam hall with a little mixed emotions, no doubt I had already entrusted it to God, because no one really knows what to expect from Lit papers. But I say that, on the whole, the three essay questions were manageable. Though, the question I chose to do for the Pride and Prejudice section was a little, hm, weird. Hard to say. Again, it was not the typical kind of question I would see in the papers set in school.
Economics Paper 2 (Essays): Okay, Econs has been an up-down-up-down subject in which I'm never quite certain of the grade. One moment I may get an A, another, a C or even a D. It perhaps reveals that even though I may be quite adept at the subject in certain areas, in others, my foundation may not be so strong after all. Anyway, all that I have to say is that for this paper, the questions set were rather tricky, and were phrased in a manner that was quite different from what I was used to. For the microeconomics question, I felt that that answer was the most unsatisfactory, relatively. I felt that I answered the second part perfunctorily, and that the first part was below par as I did not cover enough ground. For the two macroeconomics questions, I felt that one was answered well, because I believed enough content and analysis and even evaluation were portioned out. The other one I had at first thought to be entirely off-point, but later on, as in I think a few weeks later on, I chanced upon the notes for that topic, and realised I had actually answered quite satisfactorily. Well, it depends. For this paper I can never be sure of my grade. Again, and I don't care if it sounds repetitive, it has been given up unto God. (:
China Studies in English Paper 1 (Case Study): After the paper I felt quite confident. Surprisingly, during practice in class, we also did some practice on the exact same topic of the case study that was examined. But later on, our CSE teacher mentioned that a certain question was rather tricky as it required us to identify as well that 2002 was the year in which power was transferred from Jiang Zemin to Hu Jintao, which I didn't quite identify (and I think the rest of the class), so that was a little bummer-ish. But all in all, I still felt alright.
Economics Paper 1 (Case Studies): Time wasn't quite on my side here, as I would have liked to finish up the last question of the second case study in a more full and polished manner. Anyhow, I felt that I actually understood most of the questions this time round (sometimes in school exams I never really quite answered to the point), and managed to provide pointed answers. So that was good. Other than that, the content material was quite understandable as well.
China Studies in English Paper 2 (Essays): The content knowledge that was required for the six essay questions was familiar to me, but again, the phrasing of certain questions left quite a lot of doubt due to the ambiguity generated. Nonetheless, I chose only the questions that I felt I was more capable in. The compulsory question was the most challenging for me, because it required analysis based on social and economic factors, and I wasn't sure whether to analyse them separately or in tandem, so I did both. The essay structure which I adopted for I think all of the questions was also slightly different. Instead of the factor-aligned structure which had been stressed upon the most during class, I opted for a more analytical approach, trying to inject more depth as and when I could, instead of only at the conclusion. It felt a little experimental, but I also felt more secure in doing that, especially since its the subject's first major appearance in the local A level syllabus.
Literature in English Paper 4 (Imagining Other Worlds): There was a rather lengthy break between this final paper and the previous one, but I tried to put the time to good use to study and just gear up for the final leg in this race. The questions were understandable, but I felt that my answer to the Practical Criticism component was a little too simple, though very understandable. I felt that the other two essays were more well-done, in that I actually put in more of what I learnt into them.
Okay, so there it is, my humble evaluation of the papers. Whatever the results, to God be the glory. (:
Saturday, January 10, 2009
pseudo-EMO
It's funny how I miss school a little, missing the activity and the bustle of it, and maybe it's also because I don't get to see schoolmates as often now. Yet I wouldn't want to go back to school in a different capacity, say as a senior or even as a teacher; it just isn't quite the same. Maybe it's because it had been a full four years there, so bonds and relationships forged there perhaps run a little deeper, and memories linger longer.
I felt the same way leaving two years of secondary school behind. While maybe I didn't quite like the curriculum and those who imparted it then, I did have quite a few friends that, on hindsight, I found quite hard to leave without feeling even a little tinge of sadness. I still keep in touch with some of them, but as it is always, it isn't quite the same.
But this time, I believe these same emotions would definitely be stronger (even though I believe most of my friends think me almost emotionless). The end of 2008 signalled a closure to many things I had been previously familiar with, education and all. Perhaps the advancement to something more foreign and the reluctant venture out of my comfort zone leaves me a little helpless, and honestly it is quite distressing.
But leaving so much behind and all the what-could-have-been feelings... sigh.
I felt the same way leaving two years of secondary school behind. While maybe I didn't quite like the curriculum and those who imparted it then, I did have quite a few friends that, on hindsight, I found quite hard to leave without feeling even a little tinge of sadness. I still keep in touch with some of them, but as it is always, it isn't quite the same.
But this time, I believe these same emotions would definitely be stronger (even though I believe most of my friends think me almost emotionless). The end of 2008 signalled a closure to many things I had been previously familiar with, education and all. Perhaps the advancement to something more foreign and the reluctant venture out of my comfort zone leaves me a little helpless, and honestly it is quite distressing.
But leaving so much behind and all the what-could-have-been feelings... sigh.
Monday, January 05, 2009
things that go on at a typical barbecue
- Prawns that are half-cooked but taste just as nice.
- Chicken wings that are half-cooked but taste just as nice.
- The SISTER being the proud cook of the aforementioned items, toiling over the open fire with surprising enthusiasm. The marathon chef, as she is called - even the UNCLE had less endurance.
- A debate over whether the sugar in the marinade caused the carbon build-up on the wings - a debate that never fails to arise during bbqs, whether with the MOTHER'S side or not.
- The clever innovation that was our very own marshmallow roasters - sticks that stick out of the grill at such beautiful angles to roast them mallows nicely, which produce wonderful saggy and rippling curves of brown, freckled crust and soft, woozy filling.
- The downing of red wine which awakens allergic reactions in me - though I don't actually mind; I don't fancy alcohol.
- A gathering of the family and all its nice, warm, fuzzy feelings - even if we do turn to what's on TV later on.
Thursday, January 01, 2009
new year
So it's the new year.
Spent the time up to countdown (and about 4 hours thereafter!) with some of my cell group friends, over games and a potluck supper, just talking, eating and card playing, enjoying their company. Hopefully, for this new year, we'll be able to 'grow up well', so to speak.
So I woke up at around 2 plus in the afternoon. For lunch, the MOTHER invited over some of her friends for an authentically Peranakan new year lunch. She even dressed up in a pink-dominated sarong kebaya, and modelled a hair bun, to top the look off. Most of our family has been bitten by the Little Nyonya bug, so I guess that's why. The food was really good, with the whatever-whatever udang being the best.
Then I played with the RABBIT (it's in caps because it's now part of the family). It was a Christmas gift from one of the MOTHER'S friends, for the SISTER. But I play with it a lot.
Ok so the SISTER named it Lovely. What a lovely name.
But I call it Ah Nia, haha. And somehow it stuck. So it's now Ah Nia (which sort of means 'lady' or 'woman' or something, the term itself connoting some form of respect or reverence, I think).
So now it's as if the rabbit is some revered demi-god. But no it's not. Ah Nia is basically brown all over, with a grey tinge on its underbelly and feet. Its ears have a black outline, or as I like to know it, thick earshadow. It has a big brown patch that covers its nose and the part above it, so it looks as if its nose is two times too big for it. Best part of all, it's really not so smart, and looks like a beaver (sort of) if you cover its ears with your hand. And it's really a bit of a glutton.
So as some people call it, it is cute.
But I prefer to think of it as Lovely.
Just like I hope the new year will be. Thank God.
Spent the time up to countdown (and about 4 hours thereafter!) with some of my cell group friends, over games and a potluck supper, just talking, eating and card playing, enjoying their company. Hopefully, for this new year, we'll be able to 'grow up well', so to speak.
So I woke up at around 2 plus in the afternoon. For lunch, the MOTHER invited over some of her friends for an authentically Peranakan new year lunch. She even dressed up in a pink-dominated sarong kebaya, and modelled a hair bun, to top the look off. Most of our family has been bitten by the Little Nyonya bug, so I guess that's why. The food was really good, with the whatever-whatever udang being the best.
Then I played with the RABBIT (it's in caps because it's now part of the family). It was a Christmas gift from one of the MOTHER'S friends, for the SISTER. But I play with it a lot.
Ok so the SISTER named it Lovely. What a lovely name.
But I call it Ah Nia, haha. And somehow it stuck. So it's now Ah Nia (which sort of means 'lady' or 'woman' or something, the term itself connoting some form of respect or reverence, I think).
So now it's as if the rabbit is some revered demi-god. But no it's not. Ah Nia is basically brown all over, with a grey tinge on its underbelly and feet. Its ears have a black outline, or as I like to know it, thick earshadow. It has a big brown patch that covers its nose and the part above it, so it looks as if its nose is two times too big for it. Best part of all, it's really not so smart, and looks like a beaver (sort of) if you cover its ears with your hand. And it's really a bit of a glutton.
So as some people call it, it is cute.
But I prefer to think of it as Lovely.
Just like I hope the new year will be. Thank God.
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
MADOFF
How interesting is that guy's surname you tell me?
Anyhow, I believe just about the whole of the developed world is privy to the financial scandal that acknowledges its creator in Bernard Madoff, borne out of, for some, greed, for others stupidity, and yet for others, both. Then again, we can't blame them squarely. Read a report about how exactly Madoff managed to flummox many in the industry - through his stellar track record, his philanthropic work, and most importantly, the high level of trustworthiness and morality within the Jewish community.
Speaking of which, the report also mentioned that reactions from the Jewish community have ranged from anger to disappointment, with notable reference to how the entire scandal seems to confirm and champion the stereotype of the thieving Jewish banker. The stereotype has long existed and even influenced many historical events. After all, it is this stereotype that lent itself very well to the radicalisation of the Adolf's very own anti-Semitic world view.
How sad isn't it, when the misdeeds of black sheep, while few and far in between, almost always have a lasting and indelible impact on their compatriots and associates. The trust and rapport built between the Jewish and other American communities will never be the same again, plagued by the shadows of this scandal even far into the future, especially with the magnitude and scale of it.
But I hope this doesn't go down the path from which the entire country of Germany took, when it beat up itself for the atrocities Adolf orchestrated like the Holocaust, where its national pride was wounded for decades and only recently, has it taken a turn for the better. The Jewish community hopefully will know better.
Anyhow, I believe just about the whole of the developed world is privy to the financial scandal that acknowledges its creator in Bernard Madoff, borne out of, for some, greed, for others stupidity, and yet for others, both. Then again, we can't blame them squarely. Read a report about how exactly Madoff managed to flummox many in the industry - through his stellar track record, his philanthropic work, and most importantly, the high level of trustworthiness and morality within the Jewish community.
Speaking of which, the report also mentioned that reactions from the Jewish community have ranged from anger to disappointment, with notable reference to how the entire scandal seems to confirm and champion the stereotype of the thieving Jewish banker. The stereotype has long existed and even influenced many historical events. After all, it is this stereotype that lent itself very well to the radicalisation of the Adolf's very own anti-Semitic world view.
How sad isn't it, when the misdeeds of black sheep, while few and far in between, almost always have a lasting and indelible impact on their compatriots and associates. The trust and rapport built between the Jewish and other American communities will never be the same again, plagued by the shadows of this scandal even far into the future, especially with the magnitude and scale of it.
But I hope this doesn't go down the path from which the entire country of Germany took, when it beat up itself for the atrocities Adolf orchestrated like the Holocaust, where its national pride was wounded for decades and only recently, has it taken a turn for the better. The Jewish community hopefully will know better.
Monday, December 29, 2008
Sad lah
Just came back from an SC gathering at YT's place. It was reasonably well-attended this time round, with I think around 18 people there. Had to wear the FATHER'S shirt because I didn't have any more red shirts to wear. As usual, it was a few sizes too big, but alright. But a few people didn't come attired in line with the red/green theme, so that was sad. It's JUST red and green, how hard can it be?! Bish to all those who didn't follow the theme.
Basically just ate pizza there and self-composed ice-cream floats i.e. like how a piggy would. Talked to quite a few of them about NS and holiday jobs, not much about studies anymore! Played Risk (yes again), but this time I lost so badly! Ok, so C was completely wiped out first, but then A and V took turns to slowly eradicate me on that (cursed!) board till I was (sadly) no more. HM tried to 'protect' me, but to no avail. First time ever lost so badly I tell you! Happened to such a risk-averse person some more!
Ok maybe that's why I lost.
Some more I was the person there who knew how to play Risk quite well. SAD LAH.
After that I just went around looking at other people playing other games, like mahjong and the real kind of poker, where you lose money. Sad there wasn't anyone playing Bridge; that would have been nice.
After the whole thing ended, I went up with YT and R to go collect money from ZT, who still owed me cab money from prom. Can you believe it, we went around at least three apartments before chancing correctly upon his? YT only knew what floor he lived on, so we basically tried all the doors with a cross on them and track shoes outside, since he was Christian and rather active, haha. In the process, we dropped strawberries and all. Thank goodness he wasn't (really) asleep when we found his apartment. So yay I got my $6.40 back.
Then after making a trip to YT's house and getting a Cambodian souvenir out of it, R and I trooped to the bus stop where he (surprisingly) turned serious and offered relationship advice (of which I have no use for, yet) from his own experiences. A different side of him that I have now only come to know, I would say.
Haha ok, had a good time, though the last-minute arranged Bridge session at HM's never quite materialised. Sad lah. (:
Basically just ate pizza there and self-composed ice-cream floats i.e. like how a piggy would. Talked to quite a few of them about NS and holiday jobs, not much about studies anymore! Played Risk (yes again), but this time I lost so badly! Ok, so C was completely wiped out first, but then A and V took turns to slowly eradicate me on that (cursed!) board till I was (sadly) no more. HM tried to 'protect' me, but to no avail. First time ever lost so badly I tell you! Happened to such a risk-averse person some more!
Ok maybe that's why I lost.
Some more I was the person there who knew how to play Risk quite well. SAD LAH.
After that I just went around looking at other people playing other games, like mahjong and the real kind of poker, where you lose money. Sad there wasn't anyone playing Bridge; that would have been nice.
After the whole thing ended, I went up with YT and R to go collect money from ZT, who still owed me cab money from prom. Can you believe it, we went around at least three apartments before chancing correctly upon his? YT only knew what floor he lived on, so we basically tried all the doors with a cross on them and track shoes outside, since he was Christian and rather active, haha. In the process, we dropped strawberries and all. Thank goodness he wasn't (really) asleep when we found his apartment. So yay I got my $6.40 back.
Then after making a trip to YT's house and getting a Cambodian souvenir out of it, R and I trooped to the bus stop where he (surprisingly) turned serious and offered relationship advice (of which I have no use for, yet) from his own experiences. A different side of him that I have now only come to know, I would say.
Haha ok, had a good time, though the last-minute arranged Bridge session at HM's never quite materialised. Sad lah. (:
Friday, December 26, 2008
why like that
It's Boxing Day! The day after Christmas! Of which is in the period where I eat a lot and you know what happens next!
I just heard this (or something to that effect) on the news: "There has been a decline in visitor arrivals this year, down from last year's phenomenal tourist numbers. This has been attributed to the current economic downturn, which is taking its toll on many countries around the world."
WHAT. Did I hear that correctly?
"There has been a decline in visitor arrivals this year, down from last year's phenomenal tourist numbers. This has been attributed to the current economic downturn, which is taking its toll on many countries around the world."
I'M SORRY?
"There has been a decline in visitor arrivals this year, down from last year's phenomenal tourist numbers. This has been attributed to the current economic downturn, which is taking its toll on many countries around the world."
WHY? Why must everything be 'attributed' to the recessionary period?
Smaller turnouts at business expositions. Orh, it's because of the economic downturn.
Smaller donation takings for charities. Yah lah, it's the recession.
Less retail earnings. Of course it's because people have to tighten purse strings what. Then what?
More pets left at animal shelters. Oh, they couldn't afford to continue taking care of them. To expensive to upkeep.
Then what?
Ok. Maybe there's some truth to all of this.
Yes, because of the economic downturn, many have been retrenched, many more have taken pay cuts, and therefore, there is less money to holiday overseas, to donate, to spend on Christmas presents, and to even feed Spot. Business expos die because they are boring.
Ok, it's probably because businesses are busy cutting back on expenditure and therefore don't see the need to even try to get more business which will most definitely require more capital outlay.
BUT. It's not ONLY because of the downturn that has caused such phenomena, RIGHT? Does anyone see my point? (Ok maybe not because I'm quibbling over such silly things. BUT.)
I mean, it seems almost as if the current downturn is a plain (and easy) excuse to be used for accounting for many things, which would otherwise reveal something that is not so nice.
Like how tourist arrivals may be dipping ALSO because of the declining image that our country portrays to the rest of the world? Not-so-effective tourism campaigns? They've all seen our country and have gotten bored? Maybe.
Or maybe that prices have instead gone up during the Christmas period, explaining why people opt for cheaper presents now, and therefore, less spending? Maybe it's also because sales just aren't what they used to be anymore, with measly discounts of what, 5%? Not even enough to cover GST.
Or how about this, plain, unyielding human nature. We are selfish, and so we just don't want to donate too much, and don't want to buy more dog food. Charities have lost the trust placed in them due to a few really lame individuals, and people think buying huskies for HDB dwellers as Christmas presents makes absolute sense, especially when they (the dogs lah) look so small and cute when first bought (later on: how EVER did they grow so big and noisy?!).
And business expos are boring lah. Ok, that and because of the snowball effect, when some businesses (doesn't have to be alot, just the major players) decide to stay away from a particular expo (for whatever reason, maybe also because they're boring), more and more will find the expo less attractive as well, and you see my point. Yes you do.
So you see (yes you do), the "current economic downturn" should not be used as the excuse-that-no-one-can-refute, because, very often, it's seen that way. Instead, while it should be taken into account, we must also look at ways to resolve whatever problem that materialises.
How about raising service standards to boost tourist arrivals, instead of hoping for the best 5 years on when there will be a probable economic boom? Or how about better pet ownership regulation and licensing so that Spot wouldn't be in a spot?
Then we'll find out, that, after all, it isn't so much an economic downturn. (:
I just heard this (or something to that effect) on the news: "There has been a decline in visitor arrivals this year, down from last year's phenomenal tourist numbers. This has been attributed to the current economic downturn, which is taking its toll on many countries around the world."
WHAT. Did I hear that correctly?
"There has been a decline in visitor arrivals this year, down from last year's phenomenal tourist numbers. This has been attributed to the current economic downturn, which is taking its toll on many countries around the world."
I'M SORRY?
"There has been a decline in visitor arrivals this year, down from last year's phenomenal tourist numbers. This has been attributed to the current economic downturn, which is taking its toll on many countries around the world."
WHY? Why must everything be 'attributed' to the recessionary period?
Smaller turnouts at business expositions. Orh, it's because of the economic downturn.
Smaller donation takings for charities. Yah lah, it's the recession.
Less retail earnings. Of course it's because people have to tighten purse strings what. Then what?
More pets left at animal shelters. Oh, they couldn't afford to continue taking care of them. To expensive to upkeep.
Then what?
Ok. Maybe there's some truth to all of this.
Yes, because of the economic downturn, many have been retrenched, many more have taken pay cuts, and therefore, there is less money to holiday overseas, to donate, to spend on Christmas presents, and to even feed Spot. Business expos die because they are boring.
Ok, it's probably because businesses are busy cutting back on expenditure and therefore don't see the need to even try to get more business which will most definitely require more capital outlay.
BUT. It's not ONLY because of the downturn that has caused such phenomena, RIGHT? Does anyone see my point? (Ok maybe not because I'm quibbling over such silly things. BUT.)
I mean, it seems almost as if the current downturn is a plain (and easy) excuse to be used for accounting for many things, which would otherwise reveal something that is not so nice.
Like how tourist arrivals may be dipping ALSO because of the declining image that our country portrays to the rest of the world? Not-so-effective tourism campaigns? They've all seen our country and have gotten bored? Maybe.
Or maybe that prices have instead gone up during the Christmas period, explaining why people opt for cheaper presents now, and therefore, less spending? Maybe it's also because sales just aren't what they used to be anymore, with measly discounts of what, 5%? Not even enough to cover GST.
Or how about this, plain, unyielding human nature. We are selfish, and so we just don't want to donate too much, and don't want to buy more dog food. Charities have lost the trust placed in them due to a few really lame individuals, and people think buying huskies for HDB dwellers as Christmas presents makes absolute sense, especially when they (the dogs lah) look so small and cute when first bought (later on: how EVER did they grow so big and noisy?!).
And business expos are boring lah. Ok, that and because of the snowball effect, when some businesses (doesn't have to be alot, just the major players) decide to stay away from a particular expo (for whatever reason, maybe also because they're boring), more and more will find the expo less attractive as well, and you see my point. Yes you do.
So you see (yes you do), the "current economic downturn" should not be used as the excuse-that-no-one-can-refute, because, very often, it's seen that way. Instead, while it should be taken into account, we must also look at ways to resolve whatever problem that materialises.
How about raising service standards to boost tourist arrivals, instead of hoping for the best 5 years on when there will be a probable economic boom? Or how about better pet ownership regulation and licensing so that Spot wouldn't be in a spot?
Then we'll find out, that, after all, it isn't so much an economic downturn. (:
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
lovely show
Ok, don't know why but I'm kind of stuck on this show that is apparently meant for 6 to 11 year-olds. It's Avatar: The Last Airbender/The Legend of Aang, but both are essentially the same. It's this cartoon that is a cross between the anime genre and the American kind of Saturday morning cartoons. But it's got me hooked, partly because it features Asian elements especially in the 'bending' powers of the kid characters. Ok, so I'm a bit slow and the show actually started the year before last i.e. 2006. Sounds really ancient, but what to do, I focused on my studies then (I still do, hopefully). The comic timing really is quite well-done, and I like it mainly because nothing is pretentious; it's the kind of show that makes you feel really at home with it, where the character development is so fantastic that you feel like you've known them for a long time, and the message from each episode (yes, there's meaning to it) is so relevant to you that you feel that the producers know what they're talking about. And because it's animated. (:
And yes it's Christmas Eve!
And yes it's Christmas Eve!
Monday, December 22, 2008
the langkawi adventure!
HAHA. That's seriously an understatement. Though, for the life of me, I don't know why I found it rather enjoyable though something regrettable took place.
Ok, so we arrived there at around, hmm, I think 8pm. Had dinner at this Italian bistro in the hotel which served surprisingly good pizza. So that was nice. And the hotel as well! It was really decked out in the nicest and most expensive-LOOKING marble I've seen so far. I've always had a soft spot for luxurious but NOT gaudy interiors. Except the exterior of the hotel looked like it was transported from the gaudy '80s. So that wasn't too good.
Anyhow, the next day we basically just lounged around in the hotel. Ok no, it's more of a resort actually, by the oh-so-fantastic beach which means that isn't like one of those places that looks exactly like downtown Singapore and I was glad for that. Took a swim in the pool and trooped off to the steam room after that to open up some pores! Felt really refreshed after that, and really clean. I've always liked to be clean. Dinner later on was at some famous seafood restaurant which lived up to its name, but the flies there were not to be trifled with.
On the third day, we tried to go for a cable-car ride, but was denied it because of the strong winds. Later on, we went to this waterfall, but had a really bad experience there. Two bags were stolen! And as I type this I am reminded of the sorrow and regret, of just turning our heads away for only around two minutes as we enjoyed the cool waters (it really was a nice place to take a dip), and of the huge amount of valuables that were lost. I wouldn't type it down here, but it really is a big deal. Seriously. Perhaps some may say to get over it and move on, but it's really a huge event for me because it is the first time that such theft has happened to me/my family, and to turn up empty-handed after a rather fruitless search for the culprits, it really is saddening and heart-wrenching, to say the least. It spoilt the holiday for me, at least a little. I couldn't sleep well that night, and kept committing the incident to God. Hopefully, at the very least, I hope whatever was stolen was put to good use, in that it was used to help a desperate father whose wife was swollen with pregnancy and the loot used to raise the child in future, or that it came in handy for perhaps a family with too many mouths to feed. And not to sustain some drug addict or perpetuate a criminal syndicate of whatever sort. That would be bad. And I would be sad. We made a police report later on, and the officers were really nice and all. I had thought that Malaysian police were not really dependable or reliable, since there are many corrupt officers and all, especially the traffic police during the peak periods. Anyhow, these officers were really patient, and even sent down plainclothes policemen to try to nab the culprits (that's what they said though). At least they were nice, and didn't brush us off. During the trip, many of the locals we came across (and who got to know our story) suggested it was monkeys who took our valuables. But it was really obvious it wasn't those animals (though they do have itchy hands), because there was no noise and no mess made of all our other belongings. Monkeys wouldn't leave behind our food and towels and make off with our valuables. Ok, moving on.
The next day, we went for a mangrove tour. I noticed that my parents didn't look too affected by the theft, so that was good. I had thought they would have been brooding a lot over it, since they were the main 'losers' from the theft (personally, I only lost my bag and my pair of goggles). Anyhow, the mangrove tour was enjoyable! (:(:(: (I'll try to smile more. (: ) We went eagle feeding, touring bat caves, looking for monitor lizards, crabs, snakes, monkeys, kingfishers, mudskippers, various kinds of fish, and finding them. Sad that we didn't see any crocodiles. It was nice to be back with nature, but kind of sticky as well. If I remember correctly, we went to this expensive al fresco restaurant for dinner, where only tourists go and locals stay away. The food wasn't too bad though, and I suspect it was a Singaporean outfit, because of its arty design, alright service and exorbitant prices. Plus they had some Singaporean dishes. Sometimes I don't get my father though. While he strives to save money (I think I got my prudent genes from him), at other times he's quite willing to splurge. Not that there's anything wrong with that. (:
Ok, the next day we went fishing! Not my favourite activity, but I was all for it since my father was so interested in it, and I thought that it was a good distraction from the previous unpleasant memories (if you don't know what I'm talking about I suggest you take reading lessons and a test for dyslexia). We chartered a boat and went around the different parts of the sea to fish! I didn't catch anything though. The SISTER caught one, my father caught three fish (one big fish, one small fish, and one small grouper) and a squid, while the BROTHER was the 'hero'; he caught seven fish (one big fish, two small groupers and other small fish). But I got sunburnt feet. We later gorged on our ocean harvest. Dinner was simple at an zichar restaurant in the town area; cheap and good. The deep fried 'pork limb' there gives the German pork knuckle a serious run for its money, I tell you.
And now we come to the last day! We basically just lounged around in the resort again. After sleeping in, I went to open up my pores with some steam again. Dinner at the Italian bistro again (couldn't get enough of the pizza!). And as I type this, I'm back in Singapore. (Duh, the Internet charges there are exorbitant - RM 5 for 15 minutes, like hello, what are they thinking!)
This brings me to my next point, about Malaysian service. Ok, not that I have anything against the service people there; some of them are really nice, like the lady waitress who was enthusiastic to suggest places for us to visit and kept on asking us whether we were happy with the food, the cab drivers there (who no doubt charged us high fares; Malaysian cabs are like that, especially those called by the hotel) who advised us on the best ways to spend our holiday and sympathised with our predicament, or the mangrove people who were so entertaining with their tidbits of mangrove knowledge. But certain people there seriously spoil the entire Malaysian image as a place welcoming for tourists. Like the guest relations manager who couldn't stand to see the darts drop to the ground even once, the sniffly van driver who insisted that we should pay more because we had 5 and not 4, or the salesgirl who somehow couldn't stand helping us pack our purchases into hand-carry friendly boxes and had to mistreat, no, abuse our goods. I especially don't fancy the ones who only fawn on the ang mohs and the Middle Easterners. Yes, they are tourists, but so are we! Just because we come from the ASEAN region (including the Thais and the Indonesians and other Singaporeans), does not mean we do not deserve equal service standards. We pay for the same services too! Ok, enough venting. But I guess service standards do not really seem to be up to par for many destinations around the world. Such is life.
Ah ok, I hope I seriously put the unpleasant experiences behind me (way behind) and remember only the good bits.
Ok, so we arrived there at around, hmm, I think 8pm. Had dinner at this Italian bistro in the hotel which served surprisingly good pizza. So that was nice. And the hotel as well! It was really decked out in the nicest and most expensive-LOOKING marble I've seen so far. I've always had a soft spot for luxurious but NOT gaudy interiors. Except the exterior of the hotel looked like it was transported from the gaudy '80s. So that wasn't too good.
Anyhow, the next day we basically just lounged around in the hotel. Ok no, it's more of a resort actually, by the oh-so-fantastic beach which means that isn't like one of those places that looks exactly like downtown Singapore and I was glad for that. Took a swim in the pool and trooped off to the steam room after that to open up some pores! Felt really refreshed after that, and really clean. I've always liked to be clean. Dinner later on was at some famous seafood restaurant which lived up to its name, but the flies there were not to be trifled with.
On the third day, we tried to go for a cable-car ride, but was denied it because of the strong winds. Later on, we went to this waterfall, but had a really bad experience there. Two bags were stolen! And as I type this I am reminded of the sorrow and regret, of just turning our heads away for only around two minutes as we enjoyed the cool waters (it really was a nice place to take a dip), and of the huge amount of valuables that were lost. I wouldn't type it down here, but it really is a big deal. Seriously. Perhaps some may say to get over it and move on, but it's really a huge event for me because it is the first time that such theft has happened to me/my family, and to turn up empty-handed after a rather fruitless search for the culprits, it really is saddening and heart-wrenching, to say the least. It spoilt the holiday for me, at least a little. I couldn't sleep well that night, and kept committing the incident to God. Hopefully, at the very least, I hope whatever was stolen was put to good use, in that it was used to help a desperate father whose wife was swollen with pregnancy and the loot used to raise the child in future, or that it came in handy for perhaps a family with too many mouths to feed. And not to sustain some drug addict or perpetuate a criminal syndicate of whatever sort. That would be bad. And I would be sad. We made a police report later on, and the officers were really nice and all. I had thought that Malaysian police were not really dependable or reliable, since there are many corrupt officers and all, especially the traffic police during the peak periods. Anyhow, these officers were really patient, and even sent down plainclothes policemen to try to nab the culprits (that's what they said though). At least they were nice, and didn't brush us off. During the trip, many of the locals we came across (and who got to know our story) suggested it was monkeys who took our valuables. But it was really obvious it wasn't those animals (though they do have itchy hands), because there was no noise and no mess made of all our other belongings. Monkeys wouldn't leave behind our food and towels and make off with our valuables. Ok, moving on.
The next day, we went for a mangrove tour. I noticed that my parents didn't look too affected by the theft, so that was good. I had thought they would have been brooding a lot over it, since they were the main 'losers' from the theft (personally, I only lost my bag and my pair of goggles). Anyhow, the mangrove tour was enjoyable! (:(:(: (I'll try to smile more. (: ) We went eagle feeding, touring bat caves, looking for monitor lizards, crabs, snakes, monkeys, kingfishers, mudskippers, various kinds of fish, and finding them. Sad that we didn't see any crocodiles. It was nice to be back with nature, but kind of sticky as well. If I remember correctly, we went to this expensive al fresco restaurant for dinner, where only tourists go and locals stay away. The food wasn't too bad though, and I suspect it was a Singaporean outfit, because of its arty design, alright service and exorbitant prices. Plus they had some Singaporean dishes. Sometimes I don't get my father though. While he strives to save money (I think I got my prudent genes from him), at other times he's quite willing to splurge. Not that there's anything wrong with that. (:
Ok, the next day we went fishing! Not my favourite activity, but I was all for it since my father was so interested in it, and I thought that it was a good distraction from the previous unpleasant memories (if you don't know what I'm talking about I suggest you take reading lessons and a test for dyslexia). We chartered a boat and went around the different parts of the sea to fish! I didn't catch anything though. The SISTER caught one, my father caught three fish (one big fish, one small fish, and one small grouper) and a squid, while the BROTHER was the 'hero'; he caught seven fish (one big fish, two small groupers and other small fish). But I got sunburnt feet. We later gorged on our ocean harvest. Dinner was simple at an zichar restaurant in the town area; cheap and good. The deep fried 'pork limb' there gives the German pork knuckle a serious run for its money, I tell you.
And now we come to the last day! We basically just lounged around in the resort again. After sleeping in, I went to open up my pores with some steam again. Dinner at the Italian bistro again (couldn't get enough of the pizza!). And as I type this, I'm back in Singapore. (Duh, the Internet charges there are exorbitant - RM 5 for 15 minutes, like hello, what are they thinking!)
This brings me to my next point, about Malaysian service. Ok, not that I have anything against the service people there; some of them are really nice, like the lady waitress who was enthusiastic to suggest places for us to visit and kept on asking us whether we were happy with the food, the cab drivers there (who no doubt charged us high fares; Malaysian cabs are like that, especially those called by the hotel) who advised us on the best ways to spend our holiday and sympathised with our predicament, or the mangrove people who were so entertaining with their tidbits of mangrove knowledge. But certain people there seriously spoil the entire Malaysian image as a place welcoming for tourists. Like the guest relations manager who couldn't stand to see the darts drop to the ground even once, the sniffly van driver who insisted that we should pay more because we had 5 and not 4, or the salesgirl who somehow couldn't stand helping us pack our purchases into hand-carry friendly boxes and had to mistreat, no, abuse our goods. I especially don't fancy the ones who only fawn on the ang mohs and the Middle Easterners. Yes, they are tourists, but so are we! Just because we come from the ASEAN region (including the Thais and the Indonesians and other Singaporeans), does not mean we do not deserve equal service standards. We pay for the same services too! Ok, enough venting. But I guess service standards do not really seem to be up to par for many destinations around the world. Such is life.
Ah ok, I hope I seriously put the unpleasant experiences behind me (way behind) and remember only the good bits.
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
Japanese food again!
Went for Japanese lunch with ZY today at some, what else, Japanese restaurant called Ministry of Food. The name sounds a little too pretentious though... like it is the authority on all things edible, when it only specialises in Japanese cuisine, haha. Well, it was one of the few times I opted to go non-raw, because usually, in such scenarios, I'd be off my top ordering all the raw fish I can get my hands on. The beef slices though were equally nice, and had this meaty (yes there's no other word to describe it) taste that if replicated in every other kind of meat, there wouldn't be any need for sashimi. But since it isn't, sashimi's still good. So anyway, the beef is supposed to be cooked in some pot of (delish!) soup over a flame, but some of the ash intermittently flew up and hurt our eyes; sigh, the sacrifices we make for good food.
On this note I would like to say that good food is perhaps one of the items that is worth paying exorbitant prices for.
Anyway the conversation soon (somehow) veered towards the corrupt nature of many political institutions and how we would deal with them when we grow up to be highflyers of note in our specific fields of work. But then I got distracted by the dessert that came. ZY tried some soft-serve ice-cream that seriously tastes quite good for its price even though McDonald's sells the same kind at a pittance and doesn't taste half as nice. Hokkaido milk really is better. But she didn't like the black sauce that she (herself) poured all over the rest of the dessert, and so, I got to eat it. I should seriously pack some of the black sauce wherever I go - lets me have free dessert and tastes like brown sugar (maybe it's really brown sugar and not black dates and prunes. The cheaters). My tri-colour dessert thing wasn't really tri-colour, but tasted alright anyway. Hokkaido red beans and potatoes don't really go well with rice cakes, in my opinion. But what can I say, they're the Ministry of Food. (:
On this note I would like to say that good food is perhaps one of the items that is worth paying exorbitant prices for.
Anyway the conversation soon (somehow) veered towards the corrupt nature of many political institutions and how we would deal with them when we grow up to be highflyers of note in our specific fields of work. But then I got distracted by the dessert that came. ZY tried some soft-serve ice-cream that seriously tastes quite good for its price even though McDonald's sells the same kind at a pittance and doesn't taste half as nice. Hokkaido milk really is better. But she didn't like the black sauce that she (herself) poured all over the rest of the dessert, and so, I got to eat it. I should seriously pack some of the black sauce wherever I go - lets me have free dessert and tastes like brown sugar (maybe it's really brown sugar and not black dates and prunes. The cheaters). My tri-colour dessert thing wasn't really tri-colour, but tasted alright anyway. Hokkaido red beans and potatoes don't really go well with rice cakes, in my opinion. But what can I say, they're the Ministry of Food. (:
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
