Unhappiness

Yayaya....Am i a monster? Am i a dinosaur? Am i so scary? Nobody needs to be scared of me.. There's nothing to be scared of me. None of my friends needs to be scared of me. Moreover, there's no strings attached.

There won't be any new year resolutions/wishes for me. They don't work out or come true anyway. So why have it....but one thing is for sure, i wished for myself to be happy....it's been a long time since i feel happy..Happy not in the sense that i laugh or smile or what. Happy as in real happiness..

I'm still sick..mum got worried and took care of me like how she always do. Suddenly, i realised i'm back to the past, that unconditional love my mum had for me. Now i miss her out of the sudden.

Sick again?

Popped flu medicine and panadol. Thought i could sleep. But i could hardly breath now. I keep coughing. I'm so scared my asthma would come back....pray pray pray

NA

I was disappointed at that sms. Initially, i had thoughts of rejecting that trip because i was afraid that i'll be alone. In the past, i have letters accompanying me, i can go online and made online calls but now, not anymore. Nevertheless, i decided to go because i think that i should really go there and relax, trying to make a brand new start. But sadly, the whole trip was cancelled.

Today was a tough day for me. So many ups and downs of emotions for me and i almost couldn't take it. Those words was harsh to me, and it was really hurting. But like what many said, the truth hurts. It's hard getting someone whom you love out of your life entirely. Neither do i want to do that. But then again, i couldn't bear the thought of seeing someone i love doing things which might make me feel upset.

I'm also another one left hanging on the air and mind it, it has been one and a half months. I could barely tell myself to be strong and stand up any longer. Nobody can have the best of both worlds and in any case which i think i have to give in so that someone can be happier, i will. In any case which i think i have to do something so that at the very least, i can sleep much better at night, i will.

What i did today in school, those actions are nothing but for real. Especially the last action before i actually set foot and left. But i supposed that might be the last time i did that.

Yes, time will tell you everything, but perhaps by then, things are not the same and it's all a little too late.
What you said makes sense, perhaps, i'm not the better guy.
But i'm sure i am the one who knows you best, knows you well and love you always.

Start of Year 2009

Received a call from office this morning. It's from my superior. I thought it's something wrong which i've committed. But it turned out otherwise. Perhaps, this is the reason why my right eye have been twitching for the past one week. Perhaps this is like what Jon said, a brand new start to my new year of 2009. I'm finally going away from Singapore....Hope this will be a good trip and a new start to year 2009. Cheeros!

My Deepest Condolences..

Nothing is more dear than losing your loved ones. I was at loss for words earlier on. Seeing what i saw pains me. I can understand and feel that pain, perhaps not as much as they do. Still, i understand who in this world can truely stick with you thick and thin, and come to think of it, what i've been through is going to be nothing as compared to what i've just saw.

My Deepest Condolences my friend...cheer up

NA

What if i'm not sick?
What if i'm not happy?
What if i'm missing you?
What if i'm kicking and alive?
What if i'm supposed to live life well enough?

I guess i'm dreaming about those 'what ifs'.

Maybe you are happier without me.
But whatever it is, my heart doesn't give you the blessings..because it don't allow it...there's still something special my heart is holding onto.
However, i wish you happy everyday..

Gosh....fever's gone. Cough is still there, flu is still there...worse of all, my sorethroat and asthma seems to be acting up. Shucks....

Sick

Fever, Flu, Cough...it all came at one time....i feel so weak...

NA

After so many days, coming up to slightly after a month,
After so much tears,
After so much thoughts,
Afetr so much sleepless nights,
After listening to so many advices,
After realising so many things,
i've decided at last...
be it good or bad, at least i know, i have the support of my family, my friends and most importantly, myself.

To tag along with this decision, comes this song - Accidentally in Love by Counting Crows.

Goodluck to you..
I've told you before, i hope you will be happy..and i still have that hope now
That is if, someone don't exists...all the best...
Hope you remember this number '3'

Pre and Post XMAS!

Xmas is a season of thanksgiving. Although sadly, it seems totally different to be this year, as compared to the previous year, i'm glad i spent it with my loved ones. I think it's naturally important to spend it with those whom you love and loved you as well.

Although there's someone i especially wanted to celebrate with this year, but it's impossible anymore.

I was with MR the moment the clock ticks off at 12am, knocking on the door of xmas. It's was a rare gathering but sadly, i'm too tried go really enjoy the joyous mood of all. Sorry MR Guys. Nevertheless, i'm happy that once again, i got to see all my MR friends again...I shall update the photos here soon...

Xmas is also another special day - it's my dad's birthday. Happy...erm....47th Birthday!!! Haa...i almost lost count but still, i would like to wish my Dad a very happy birthday. Had a mini celebration on my own part along with some unexpected people and totally, it was enjoyable. I'll never forgot the aftermath of the whole event - three dudes playing LAN game overnight, well, almost.

Finally, I'm going to have a post Xmas celebration with Xero4 and gang. Now that finally Donovan's back, we'll gonna have fun yet again...can't wait for the sun to rise...i know i'm in for a feast tomorrow.

NA

It's hard to believe...it's even harder to accept.
I want to say i miss you, because i really do.
But i can't tell anyone. Not even those dearest to me.
This xmas wasn't merry at all. I hope things are just going to be better

NA

Wishing you all the best and all i can say is...goodluck to you...

Thanks to Those Who Lent Me Their Shoulders

I've learnt. Alot...Thanks to those who have adviced. Thanks to those who have shared. And even much more thankful to those who lend me their shoulders for me.

NA

我想那已经很清楚了。既然已经说得那么明白，我也会尊重那番话以及决定。而在我内心深处，则是许许多多的不舍。

NA

我在昨天晚上做了一个梦。那是一种提示吗？当我醒来时，我才发现原来只是一场梦。我抱着失望的心情睡了回去。梦里的我们是多么的开心，我现在也好希望这一个多月所发生的事情也只是一场梦。说真的，人往往会在梦里找到他们在白天所想的一切，就如日有所思，夜有所梦。

突然觉得很心酸。但我也没办法，只好忍着。

NA

我任然觉得我没做错。真的错的不是我。对我而言，我只相信我的眼睛。对！我很失望，也很伤心，但那一切的一切都已经过去了。我根本就不是王八蛋，因为从头到尾，我都一直很努力的挽回，而且还全心全意地相信她。

都已经一个月多了。我也在这一个月多里受了很多痛。真的够了。再拖下去，我真的就会崩溃了。我真的不敢相信我竟然还爱她。但我也知道那只是我的一厢情愿。

NA

我就连想做一个朋友的责任都这么难吗？为什么无论我现在做什么事，到头来都会被搞扎呢？我突然觉得我很没用。为什么老是做错事，而且更糟糕的是那些事更本不是我故意的。

说真的，如果你爱一个人，你会为她掉眼泪吗？你会因为她而瘦了好几公斤吗？你会因为她而有了黑眼圈吗？你会因为她而茶饭不思吗？我并不在意任何东西，因为我真的很爱她。如果以上的任何事你更本没做过，那你更本没资格爱一个人。

我很不甘心。但是我决定我已经很累了。可能爱一个人真的就是要她开心，虽然我很想继续的保护和疼她。

NA

真的得落到这样的下场吗？为什么无论我多么努力，也是没用呢。每当我觉得很伤心，觉得很无助的时候，很自然的，第一个想到的人是她。但是每当我最想打给他的时候，我犹豫了。到了这个时候，我还在犹豫不决。看来我真的得做出一些牺牲，虽然我真的很不想，但是我真的觉得很辛苦，很痛。真的很痛。只希望这样的话，她会开心，虽然我知道我一定会后悔，但我别无选择。而且从开始到现在我更本没觉得被关心。我几乎每天心里都在哭。如果爱一个人是那么痛苦，我真的宁愿永远都别再爱任何人了。

NA

我现在才知道原来是那么痛的。那些话真的把我的心给刺伤。但我知道真正关心我的人还在。我似乎觉得有些事，我还是别说比较好，这样一来，我可能会好过一些。我原本以为我至少还能在我最伤心的时候找到一点光芒，但是看来到头来我还是必须靠自己。再痛也得忍下去。

我一直在想那时那几个小时的事，我真的很开心。昨天下午的那些话也把我从一个小羊变成了一个很开心的人。可能有些事，不知道的更好。虽然那样的话会很痛，但是我想这样的话会比较好。

我尝试放手，但是很难。每一次我尝试那么做，我就会觉得非常痛苦。我舍不得，真的舍不得。

NA

那短短的几个小时，我真的很开心。但是快乐后的痛苦往往是最痛的。

NA

才刚刚过了12点。今天以是17/12/08。对我而言，今天跟以往一样，都是一个对我来说很特别的日子。虽然有点不一样，少了另外一位主角，但在我心里，那些感觉与感受都在而协一点也没少。

虽然那些短讯令我哑口无言，但我觉得我也没资格讲什么。最重要的是我心里所想的。也许你知道，或也许根本没人能理解。

NA

我不知道我到底要什么。我的心里很乱。就连现在无论做什么事情都无法提起任何的经或心情。一直都在我身旁扶持，开导，鼓励以及安慰我的朋友已离开新加坡。开学的第一天也将来临。工作也变得越来越不适应。一个本来以为能够开开心心过每一天的人， 突然变成了一个相似迷了路的小羊，完全没有方向，整天过这一种‘一天过一天的日子’。


但我也知道有很多的朋友能谅解我。他们也在这个时候不停的安慰我。也就因为有他们，我还能撑着。我也已经真的觉得麻木了。也就只有这种痛才能让我觉得比较好过。


我尝试放手，但是很难，真的很难。唯一能做的就是暂时活在以前那美丽以及快乐时光和回忆里，同时也是尽量地咬紧牙根，忍住种种的痛来过这个还没方向的生活。

NA

真的没人能够完完全全的了解我心里的感受吗？

我感到很庆幸我有一班朋友在这个艰难时期开导我，安慰我，以及鼓励着我。我这几个礼拜都在想，是我对不起我自己，或者是另有原因？有些时候，我们必须知道 ‘纸是包不住火’的事实。

我已经开始觉得麻木了。这一次的打击对我来说真的是很大。它完完全全的把我的信心给打碎。我一直问自己。是我付出得太多而没被珍惜，或者是我根本就不因该付出那么多? 多次，那些从口中说出来的话，就像是一把把的剑刺穿我的心。现在我真的不知该怎么办。但也只有我自己知道我心深处的感受。

Time of My Life - Standard Chartered Marathon & Zouk

Two main event i would like to highlight during this period of time. Thanks to these two events, i'm able to divert myself to them.

Firstly would be the Standard Chartered Marathon. It's my very first time running the marathon. It was no easy feat. However, i didn't complete it within my targeted time of 6 hours. I took 6 hours, 26 mins and 6 secs. A pity though because i thought i could have done better. Seriously, when running a marathon, as compared to me running a half marathon a year ago, it's so much of a difference. It's not about the speed and stamina, but it's more of my own endurance and psychological barrier.

My motivation was her. Yes, i told her this marathon was for her. She's the one who has been supporting me. That kept me on for quite a few kilometers until my leg finally gave in @ 15km. Subsequently, it's 'walk and jog and walk' for me all the way until i reached 34km, my leg couldn't listen anymore. I didn't know walking can be that painful. It was so painful that it kept in a speed of strolling. Eventually, i reached the last 100 metres and i tried for a sprint, knowing that i would get cramp if i were to do that. I ignored that fact and crossed the finishing line with a cramped right leg, drops of tears and thoughts of her.

Finally, i got my very first marathon medal and the finishers tee. I'm proud of myself. Next year, i'm going try even harder and break my own personal timing. This time round, it will be all by myself. I will handle everything from pre-marathon to post-marathon.

Finisher Tee-Shirt

My First Marathon Medal

Zouk (Mambo Night)

Finally, i'm stepping foot into Zouk with my friends again. It's been really long since i came to this place with them. At last, three of us's back together to enjoy soem MAMBO!!

Mambo again!

High, higher, highest

Death...

After so long, i realised my tolerance for alcohol has dropped as well. That goes the same for Don accordingly to he himself. We boldly ordered 2 jugs, getting 4 jugs back because of the 1 for 1 promo. I got myself in a near drunken state just after 3/4 jug. And by the time we hit the dance floor with drinks all consumed, i'm starting to see stars.

The feeling was high and of course nice. I just purely enjoyed the music and dance with it. By the time i downed another 2/5 jug of whisky dry, i almost hit KO. By 3am, i feel super bad and went outside to sleep while the guys still continue dancing. Heard from Don the moment i went out, nice music started coming in..DARN!

After mambo, we went to nearby coffeeshop to eat. Here's the funny part that got Gavian laughing and all of us finds it amusing. This shop sells roti prata but surprisingly, they don't sell kosong/plain prata but they only sell egg or onion prata. Ridicously, we order egg prata from them. $1.40 for one egg prata is a killer but nevertheless, something to fill the stomach full of alcohol.

By the time i reached home, i took a quick bathe and immediately KO on the bed. Though still feeling nauseous, but i felt happy. Because it's been a long time since i feel so happy, even though it's only for that few hours.

NA

It's a tough period for me. I wished for things not to turn out like that as well. Perhaps, it's just meant to be. Only time will tell....i just wish to soak myself in this pain and live it, until it numbs me. Still, those memories stays with me.

Meanwhile, the lyrics of this song makes my heart raced and emotions running around. It's by Westlife, titled 'Fool Again'.

Baby I know the story
I ve seen the picture
It s written all over your face
Tell me what s the secret
That youve been hiding
And who's gonna take my place

I should have seen it coming
I should have read the signs
Anyway I guess it's over

Can't believe that I m the fool again
I thought this love would never end
How was I to know
You never told me
Can't believe that I'm the fool again
And I who thought you were my friend
How was I to know you never told me

Baby you should have called me
When you were lonely
When you needed me to be there

Sadly you never gave me
To many chances
To show you how much I care

I should have seen it coming
I should have read the signs
Anyway I guess it s over
Can't believe that I'm the fool again
I thought this love would never end
How was I to know
You never told me

Can't believe that I'm the fool again
And I who thought you were my friend
How was I to know you never told me

About the pain and the tears
Ohooooo if I could I would
Turn back the time

Oh yeah
I should have seen it coming
I should ve read the signs
Anyway I guess it's over
Can t believe that I m the fool again
I thought this love would never end
How was I to know
You never told me

Can't believe that I'm the fool again
And I who thought you were my friend
How was I to know you never told me
Can't believe that I'm the fool again
I thought this love would never end
How was I to know
You never told me

Can't believe that I'm the fool again
And I who thought you were my friend
How was I to know
you never told me

NA

All i want to say is that i had the best 2 years, 6 months and 4 days of my life...

NA

I'm so so far away from the one I love right now. There is no reason to anything or explain. While I recall all the words you spoke to me, all the things you did to me and for me, i can't help but wish that I was there with you. I yearn to be back where I'd love to be.

But since things have come till this stage, the only thing I ask of is that she's being taken care of well I'm not beside her. Hope she's happy.

No longer am i able to help her wipe her mouth with my handkerchief.
No longer will she be able to eat the homecooked food i travel miles to deliver toher
No longer will i be there to lend her a listening ear readily
No longer will i be able to help her with her dailys stuff
No longer will i be able to take care of her needs, wants and sometimes, demands
No longer will i be able to stroke stroke her whenever she feel uncomfortable or sick
No longer will i be able to send her to school, making sure she won't feel lonely on her way to school
No longer will i be able to whip up nice dishes for her
No longer will i be able to cook instant noodles for her which i know she especially loves it
No longer will i be able to go around and find nice food for her
No longer will i be able to wish her goodnight
No longer will i be able to let her rest on my shoulder when she's on the bus, feeling tired.
No longer will i be able to surprise her and still surprise her even know she roughly knows it

Too much 'no longer' to list. I regretted not doing alot of things. Right now, there's no hatred but regrets. We all need that person who can be true to you. Now I wish I'd stayed by those moments i didn't. If i'm ever lonely and I'm tired, I'll only be missing you again.

There's nothing here for me to hope for, to be happy about now. There's no one here whenever i faces problems, whenever i needed that special kind of warmth and love. I really can't help but think of the times I've had with you as those pictures and some memories are the only things that reminds me of you.

Some search and never finding a way, and before long, they waste away. I'm glad I found you 2 and a half years ago, something told me to you're the one and even till now, i firmly believe so. I gave my all, to selfish ways but certainly with every intention of making you happy. And how I miss someone to hold, to love right now. However, when hope begins to fade, it does hurt, in fact, it hurts alot.

Though the hope is hard to find, but i never give up and i never will....

Love You Always

NA

It's a tough week for me. Why must i always make mistakes? Sometimes, i just hate myself, for being, so uselesS? It's a huge decision i'm making and therefore, i'm going to fulfill it. Pardon for my mistakes but note on my intentions. Time is our friend now and i hope something good will come out of it, i'm sure it will if we both try.

Movie just now sucks. 'Body of Lies' wasn't a good movie. I slept at the beginning of the movie. But guilt filled my heart, i actually had wanted to watch the movie even though i sensed some boredom. But there's this huge head in front of my blocking my view, which kind of turns me off, leaving me nothing much to watch. Near halfway through, i was not concentrating well. My heart is yearning. i miss her

I'm back at home, still feeling empty...where's she?

NA

I'm 3 kg lighter. My stomach is getting weaker and weaker. I LS almost everyday, well, in fact, everyday. It's a tough one past few days, but thankfully it's over. Now i'm happily clearing leave, BUT, ever since i started work, leave seems a chore. I literally have got NOTHING to do. Or should i say, i DO NOT know what to do. I does not have a strong interest in game as much how i used to.

It's been a long time since i watched a movie. I badly want to hit the movie theaters. So someone, please ask me out for a movie. I want to visit SITEX this time round. I'm looking out for a powerful HDD. Every softwares/programs now consume such a huge chunk of space that i can't help but think technology is improving and expanding way too fast, at a speed that even some couldn't cope, like me. I'm thinking of getting an external HDD, whereas Dear intend to get a thumbdrive. And perhaps Dear forgot that she has a printer to get as well, one which we postpone during the previous IT fair. Haa, i shall remind her again.

Missing Her...

NA

Luckily, everything went well. I sincerely hope Dear had the best birthday party of her life and of course, it SHOULD be a memorable one. Dear has so many friends who's helping her with her party, especially her school friends and working colleagues. Think i almost got everyone pissed for arriving so late.

But still, nothing is worse that the rain. When it poured, it has everyone's heart who was present then racing. But thank god, rain stopped as the crowd starts coming in. It's only that stupid carpark which has SO limited lots that once a car go in, it will surely have difficulty coming out because it has become a one way lane. But everyone managed to be there, somehow.

Finally, everything is over. Everyone witness the entering of adulthood of Dearie. Happy Birthday to Dearie first. Everything will be alright, forget about the past..let's move on

December come!

I'm waiting for December to come. Mainly because i have 16 days OFF from work out of the total 31 days. On top of that, i'm going to have tons of meetups and celebrations with my friends. Mambo (possibly) with MR, Christmas with MR, Christmas with Xero4, Countdown with Xero4, Marathon, Pool, Movies...everything is coming back...

Of course, my first ever candle light dinner with Dearie...

But first, i need my stomach to fully recover. My stomach's still feeling bloated every now and then and it's really making damn uncomfortable...

Confirmed Happiness

I'm confirmed! After passing my actual confirmation day for 19 days, my lady boss took time out from her routinely busy yet not so busy schedule and dragged me into the room. Routine questions came before i expressed my thoughts and feedbacks. Bah! My signature was on that appraisal form and i'm officially a staff in UOB Travel Planner. I don't know if it's good news but so far, it has been good for me. The everyday handling of holiday and tour packages really make me learn alot about the world and of course, i look forward to my next tour lead...hopefully...someday, i'll be able to go travelling around the world with Dear....Will you?

I found a super good deal. Most car companies are renting out their cars during the CNY at WeeWAH! rates. And worse, you need to rent at least a minimum of 7 days. Which means, daily rates range between $80 - $150 per day x 7 days which gives you $560 for a super kuku car like Fiat Punto to $1000 over for a above average saloon car. Madness, pure madness. But thankfully, i managed to find a car rental for 6 days @ only $450. Madness as well? Of course....

PrimaTaste - Char Kway Tiao DIY

I regret not to take a photo of my masterpiece on Saturday. I’ve bought this Primataste ‘Char Kway Tiao’ packet whereby it includes the necessary sauces to cook Char Kway Tiao. Trust me, even if you have the best of the ingredients necessary for any dishes and you lack the skill, you will be a failure still. I’m glad I’m succeeded and I’m proud of it…

The content includes sesame oil, dark soya sauce, pork/lard oil and their chilli paste. I added my own noodles and kway tiao, the necessary and yummy ingredient. Everything was going fine until after I’ve finish added the noodles and kway tiao. Cooking for a 4 person share of Char Kway Tiao is really not easy. I stir fried the content inside the wok until my arm almost gave in. I can feel the intense ache at this point of time (now then I realize how hard it is on those hawker who’s serving nice food to public as a living). But thankfully, I managed to complete this masterpiece by MYSELF and it was really nice, with review supported from Dear, Mum and my brother.

I’m going to try the other Primataste, perhaps Laksa first.

With my stomach satisfied on Saturday, Sunday turned out to be a disappointment instead. Steamboat used to be my favourite but not now. I simply can't stand myself gorging down food after food like how i used to love doing so much...What's worse that that for the past two days, i'm down with sickness - bloated stomach and fever. Now, food is my best friend and also my worst enemy.

Tomorrow's my OFF Day and i'm gonna run all my necessary errands!!!

School's A Chore!

School's a chore out of the sudden, not because i have to spend time to study tons and loads of stuff but because of the school fees. The hefty school fees has made me panting and worrying. I supposed most private school student which jolly well includes me and Dear and even my classmates are vexed over school fees at a certain point of our studies. Apart from the school work and exams, it's just another thing that we have to be worried about...I seriously hope this one year plus would quickly passed by which by then, hopefully, i would enter another new phase of my life...

I've at last proved that Dear's my lucky star. Someone who's abit superstitious like me would have to use time to prove otherwise. I'm really patang when it comes to certain things. For example, not patting on the shoulder when betting/gambling, not cutting fingernails @ night, not pointing your finger towards the moon etc etc, lots to list in fact. But las, i finally proved after so many weeks on that Dear's my lucky star. Past few losses counts for nothing after i've so far, won all the matches i've bet this weekend, with one more match to go....Bingo!

Went for a shopping spree and Dear really made my eyes open today, although i appeared otherwise. I didn't know Chinatown've got so much good stuff - cheap clothes, yummy food and even interesting people. Today i can considered myself explored quite abit of Chinatown, although it's only a small bit of area. She of course, didn't go home empty handed, with her bag and hands full of 'achievements'. Whereas for me, i discovered this new snack outlet by this Thai uncle. He's selling this cute small little pancake which i find it yummy and tasty with its fragrance. I'm looking forward to 2 weeks later, cos i'll be in Chinatown once again...

Random

Work has been great. I finally learnt the skills to survive in this patience-demanding workplace. Seriously, it's always the shit of the others that make work so tough on me. Thankfully, rainbow's here after that short period of rainstorm.

Bought a polo tee and jean from Giordano. Festive season is coming, which at this point of time coincides with the finiancial tsunami, giving everyone more reason to shop because shops everywhere are banging on their discounts. Here at UOB, staffs are getting 40% off most of the items @ Giordano and me being a not-so-active shopper decided to seize the chance and make myself happy for once.

At last, Dear's decided on her mini birthday gathering. So all's not gone yet. Yes, there's going to be food, fun, entertainment, crapping and of course driving around at night, roaming Singapore again in wee hours...can't wait!!!

It's fun being matchmakers and both me and Dearie is in the midst of hooking two singles up. Hopefully, somehow, miracle works and may the cupid struck the love arrow on their ASS!!! Not a bad idea to be a matchmaker afterall, isn't it, Dearie?

Needs

I need my sleep.
I need my rest.
I need my off and leave.
I need my food

Life's Too Routinal

I’m seriously dozing off. At work now, but I’m not working. There’s nothing for me to do. Seriously, my own opinion of working on Saturday is crap, especially for such a small travel agency like us. Was given the appraisal form by boss just now. 3 months passed, yet I’m still not confirmed yet.

Seriously at times, I feel that life is too stagnant, although I very much wanted to add colours to it but I just couldn’t, either someone or something does not allow me to do so. I used to be a super outgoing person, who never fails to go out every weekend, either to hang out around, watch movies or even just window shop. But right now, I’m either working or studying, if not, I’m just lazing at home, getting the rest I needed so as to continue my routinal schedule.

Perhaps when someone enters a certain age or rather a certain phase of life, it’s really time to slow things down and get serious. I have my own plans and goals in life right now which is indeed something comforting. The only problem is to work towards it, and seriously, it’s difficult….very difficult

Birthday

Happy Birthday? I wouldn’t say this year birthday was really a happy one. 2 years after my 21st birthday, it’s like any other normal day to me when it comes to 23th birthday a day ago. Ever since that eventful birthday which had been made possible by Dearie, my parents and friends 2 years ago (which is my first and only birthday party I ever had), I would have expect the subsequent birthday to be NORMAL. Normal in the sense that there isn’t really much to look forward to. Apart from the fact that I do get to have friend acknowledging this special day for me, my family wishing me and of course, Dearie.

Imagine eating instant noodles all by yourself on your birthday. Imagine traveling out to eat dinner alone. I spent that so called special day on my own. Any other normal day, if I were to do the same thing, it’s considered a blessing because it’s a day away from work. BUT, because I hold some hopes, some hopes in thinking that I’m going to truly enjoy myself with all the wishes and present I’ve received from those who still remembered this special day of mine, plus the fact that my birthday this year is coincidentally a public holiday, which I thought I really ‘tan deo’ (in hokkien).

First and foremost, I thought this would be a very special birthday when my colleagues all sprung me a surprise when my senior suddenly ordered me into the room, lecturing me nicely so as to get into the mood. Suddenly, everyone was out of the office. I didn’t find anything amiss until a birthday cake suddenly pop out held in the hand of one of my colleagues, only then I knew I’m being fooled by my colleagues. Nevertheless, this thoughtful moment by them made me feel that this birthday is a wonderful one. Of course, not forgetting me receiving my very first present from one of the remembered person in my life – Da Jie Jie, when she together with Dearie, sprung me my first birthday surprise.

Of course, my friends never forget me and they never once will as always. They took time out to celebrate for me. I chose the venue and we really had a great time feasting @ Sakae Sushi. It’s great hanging out with them and thanks to them, I no longer need to carry a bag which is more appropriate for outing rather than to work, given my office wear. Thanks to Don, Jon, JJ, Gav.

The next two days are the days I’m looking forward to. However, due to unforseen circumstances, plans changed. My family celebrated my birthday with dinner @ Cafe Cartel instead of the long awaited Fish n Co. Where on my birthday itself were spent all alone. Imagine eating instant noodles and having to travel outside to buy your own dinner...but i suppose with hope and expectation comes disappointment.

Of course, not forgetting my hamsters! Their birthday falls under the same week of my birthday. It's been a year since i brought them back to their new home. I have to say i have been feeling guitly towards them. Especially towards MiuMiu. He now has 2 lumps on his body but yet nothing can be done as the vet has said it's most likely due to the poor genes left to him by his parents. Poor him...Sometimes, i really think is he really enjoying what he's doing now..

I promise them a treat soon and i'm going to do it right after the 'thunderstorm is over'....soon soon..

My Birthday's Nothing

A year older but it's really nothing much....just like any other normal day.

Meanwhile, don't be too sad, Dearie. I'm here for you...

Thank You Da Jie Jie!

It totally caught me in a surprise. I totally didn't expect Da Jie Jie to still remember my birthday. I'm touched, indeed touched. I'm puzzled why Dear keep checking my shirt size the day before. It's weird, very weird. I thought she wanted to buy me a shirt, but instead, it's Da Jie Jie who wanted to....

Just one more working day and i'll be hitting a great weekend. Pass this weekend and i'll be a year older, so are my beloved hamsters, MiuMiu and Shoobing. But Miu Miu seems sick which affect me abit. I'm worried, yet i feel so helpless. What's even worse is that i've got to wake up at 4 plus in the morning later on to help out in Changi Airport. A total of 180 passengers to check in, total crazy shit. I wonder how will i survive tomorrow. Think tomorrow is a long day.

Had a great day with you, Dear. Muacks!

Random

Everyone has been busy, so busy i couldn't think of anyone who can spare some evening time to catch free movies with me. If you think i'm wrong, do let me know and you'll get to go movie with me for FREE! Movie's called Rock N Rolla in GV. But do note that the review isn't that great, so DO NOT BLAME ME if you really spare that precious time and in the end, realise it isn't worth your time. But doesn't really matter since it's FREE..i still do hope i'll be able to recover fully to catch this movie as well

Has been sick since Thursday. I really hate sore throat. The feeling of swallowing be it food, water or even your saliva is a torture. Simply can't help but keep feeling and be reminded of the uncomfort and pain. My bout of sickness always starts with sore throat. The next to follow would be the flu and it bounds to make me feel as though i'm in hell. Somehow, the flu medicine would make me drowsy the whole day, no matter how many hours of sleep won't help..I must watch my diet these few days if i want to enjoy my feasting come next week when i'm another year older.

Have been making plans and realise not only i'll be feasting but i'll also be spending a bomb on just eating alone in the spans of 4 days next week. Still, it's a yearly affair, so why not. Sakae Sushi, Fish n Co, Kublai Khan and of course, not forgetting my secret recipe cakes...yummy!

I'm hooked on Hong Kong Dramas. I used to think more of Hong Kong movies rather than drama. Rather, i'm seldom a fan of drama because it's frustrating and tiring to catch episodes and episodes. But no longer do i have those mindset. Right now, it's fun catching episodes after episodes. It's as though i've something to look forward to. But seriously, if only i owned the whole series, i bet i'll watch the whole series within a day or two. Anyone has any Hong Kong drama to lend or recommend?




I'm in love with this biscuits. It's similar to the Hello Panda under the same company 'Meiji'. But right now, i'll prefer it over Hello Panda because it's really much nicer than Hello Panda. Much because of the hard and more crispy biscuits shell. The chocolate filling is more or less the same as Hello Panda's. I've one right in front of me right now, but i have to watch my diet if not, my sore throat might just worsen again. REn!!!!!

An OFF Day Wasted

I still thought today will be a very fulfilling day because i'm on OFF. Away from the office = no worries, no stress, no troubles, no nasty customers, no irritating phone call. BUT, my laziness got the better of me yet again. Worse enough, i realised i forgot to collect my diploma certificate when i'm on my way to meet Dearie for dinner.

Only a week left before i can declare myself a year older, but i'm starting to show signs of falling sick. It always start with my throat. So i better down gallons and gallons of water before i really do fall sick.

That earlier phone call i receive from my colleagues certainly didn't make me feel better. The way my company works really bring down new employees morale. Imagine them deploying the way of 'you only know where you went wrong only when you did something wrong'. In another words, you will first need to get scolding for doing something which you don't even know it's wrong before you actually know it's REALLY wrong. Total rubbish, no wonder my company has seen a high numbers of quitters since donkey years ago. I'm still hanging in there meanwhile because it's not that tough for me and i quite enjoyed myself there, except for the way they work.

Seriously looking forward to tomorrow......

Tedious Days Ahead

Sick. My irritated nose is hinting to me that i'm going to get flu soon. I actually thought that the past few days of mild flu isn't going to continue but it seems like something worse is coming.

Lesson totally sucks today. Business Statistics is a killer. Anyone has got any idea what the hell is that? I'm totally nuts about what the lecturer is even trying to go through, my mind is even in a total blank state after lunch time. Somehow, we human beings often lose the war to the digestion of yummy food, increasing the rate of failure to concentrate.

Work has been tremendously over-whelming. But i guess stress does help motivates me abit. Seriously, stress hasn't been a good friend in my company, especially when one and a half year ago from the time i join until now, there hasn't be a single person who passed the probation of 3 months. Not because they were not up to the mark but because they quit even before they reached the 3-month mark. Rumoured has it that there is already a total of more than 15 people. I certainly hope i'm not one of them, especially after knowing what's happening and what IS GOING TO HAPPEN to Singapore is months to come. We can certainly expected unemployment rate, finiancial crisis and also, my pockets burnt of course.

Actually, i'm not really looking forward to my birthday. Especially after i know how tedious it's going to be, not on me but Dear. Thanks for everyone making the effort to celebrate my birthday and i very much appreciate it - you guys colour my life.

My sudden thought of whipping up a good dish really make me look forward to this weekend. That is of course, provided i endured this expectedly difficult week, especially when i've got to work on Saturday. Sad!!

Haircut, Movie and Dinner

Life is so unpredictable. The news brother brought to us yesterday made me feel that life is indeed unpredictable. You never know when is going to be the last sentence you are going to say. You never know when is going to be the last time you talked or ever seen your parents or loved ones. The fact that that Private was so well and alive as described by Bro made everything seem so impossible. It's just the night before he turned in that he appeared fine and who would have thought 6 hours later, he would say goodbye to this world.

That piece of news sent me to do some thinking. I used to be where he used to be, i fully understand and i hate to say, it's really a pity. A life gone just like that, i feel pity for him, i feel sad for his parents. Really...still, i bear this hatred which i refused to pour it over here..
Bro came back home, shagged. Even wanting to catch some Champions League action, which only then i realised there's a match hours later. Bad luck struck me. I set my alarm clock at 3am only to realise when i woke up it's 5am and i vaguely remembered what happened when i shut the alarm clock off hours before when the pain of my foot hurts.

I went out the brightly lit living room to see the red mark on my foot. Only then i realised i fell down hours ago and fell back to sleep immediately right after that, missing that victory match by Man Utd.

Morning was full of positiveness. It's been a long time since we are going to hang out the whole day. Started off the outing with a haircut. This haircut was special. All because i finally did away with the short crew cut which i'm so used to ever since i got enlisted 2 years plus ago. Whereas for her, she trimmed her hair and off we went to catch 'Connected'.

Story plot exactly the same as the English version 'Cellular' which i caught it quite long ago, nevertheless, it's still as nice and exciting. Dinner was the long awaited Seoul Garden. There she went as usual, being the herbivore, kept attacking all the veggies, whereas me, being a faithful carnivore, concentrated on my chicken of different flavours. By the third round, we were also KO and only helped ourselves to a small serving of desserts and fruits. When's our next outing, Dearie?

Random

Every night when it hits this time of the night, i feel so empty. I've got nothing to do, or rather, i've no mood to do anything. This time between now until 12 Plus which is another hour or so really turns me off. I feel as though i have an important task before which leaves me hanging in the air, not knowing what to do. Perhaps many would not know what i'm talking about...it's ok...i'm just grumbling...

Friday meet-up with MR is finally a fulfillment. One of the best thing that very evening was the tremendous noise from the background of the F1 practice session. Seriously, it's deafening. If you were there, you would feel hyped up just by listening to the sound produced by those powerful engines. It's been quite some time since i met up with those peeps. The dinner @ Siam Restaurant wasn't the best of choice but i'm glad i didn't order any food wrongly. It brings me back to those nights at Samran Place, Bangkok whereby i would called for room service EVERY NIGHT.

Speaking of Bangkok, i have been toying the idea of going for a short getaway. So much so that during the Birthday celebration of Don and Jon, it was being brought up. Somehow, Genting was decided but clashes of schedules and commitment somehow didn't allow everything to go through smoothly. We'll see how things go...i desperately need a short getaway...

For the first time ever, i completed watching the whole of a F1 race. It was really a good experience, it's Dear's first as well. We were watching and shouting over those cars, how it should have drive this way, how it should not have happened etc etc...Everything was frantic until even we feel for Massa as the whole race turned around after the very first accident which brought on the safety vehicle. The whole experience was fun...

Hari Raya Puasa!! Can't wait for that day to come...we've got some activities lined up on that day for ourselves. After missing out on a whole day outing since donkey year, we decided to make full use of this public holiday and have fun the WHOLE DAY!! Wee, can't wait for this Wednesday!!

KFC Chicken Drumlets or DUMB-LETS?

I don't know. I feel stupid. Especially after eating it. Indeed, it's really nice. The spices and the kicks is there, but i just don't feel that it's worth. For a drumlets so small, it cost $3.75 for 3 pieces. I foolishingly set myself into their marketing trap and only think it's stupid after i've finished eating it. It's like $1.20 for one small little drumlet. $1.20 could have bought me a BBQ chicken wing, which would take few more minutes to finish eating as compared to the newly introduced drumlets by KFC, which i can seriously finish within a minute. So do think THRICE before buying...

Happy Birthday Donna

At last, dad bought us a new bicycle. Ever since that very incident as a kid, i'm barred from riding a bicycle by dad, but right now, he finally deemed me mature enough to handle a bicycle on the road and also due to the fact that we finally had a room in the living hall for this newly bought bicycle. It's like a cute little dream come true. I just hope he will buy another one...no more grumbling on the walking journey to neighbouring estates....

The online business is also getting on the way. Both me and Don are still in the midst of building the website, although it looks abit amateur. At last, i'm getting in touch with things i've lost touch with long ago - html....dotz...time for me to brush up and get serious with it...

Anyway, Happy Birthday Donna. May All Your Birthday Wishes Come True...

Regrets....

Life is full of regrets...and sometimes, stupid things just come along and make things worse. I can't imagine how the school can be so rigid. I'm glad i'm able to further my studies in Kaplan, but i'm pissed at the fact that i have to take 6 bridging modules at $460 per bridging module. I never expected it, all these happened all because they don't regconised the Diploma cert i took from MDIS. They claimed that a 3 months on a particular subject can't be comprehensive if not more comprehensive than a 3 days lesson on that very similar subject.

When i first consult about this course, fanciful words and sentence filled my ears, saying how i could have my case being brought up, provided i produce good grades. I heeded the advice and got good grades for my final 2 examinations, yet right now, i'm being rejected of any exemptions. I'm fighting this case still and something good better come out of it, before i blow it up out loud!

Regrets! I didn't make any plans to the Hot Imports Car Show and also the Games Convention Asia 2008. Worse, Man Utd lost their lead to drew 1-1 with Chelsea, but the win from Arsenal and from the draw of Wigan v Tottenham match allow me to make some winnings which luckily, allow me to end this week quite evenly.

Have been totally hooked on Dynasty Chess. I improved alot of it and i'm loving this game back just like old times...

PS: Weather recently has reached intolerable level which really make me curse and swear all day along. I'm sweating even as i sleep. I can't take it any longer....how i wish i'm back in Hokkaido...

Happy Birthday Bro

I'm crazy. Really nuts. Out of the sudden, i feel depressed. It's like mood swing. Is it similar to what woman has been feeling when that time of the month arrive? Does it feel abit painful in the heart and your head felt the heaviest. I keep feeling i needed to pour, but i can't think of anything to pour.

Could it be the warm weather? Or could it be work? Or could it be studies? I keep relating my current mood any of the abovementioned, but none seems to link. However, the music really soothes me. MUSE! I'm totally into their music right now. Yes, i know this sudden interest will die off slowly but it's the moment i should treasure.

Happy Birthday Bro. His new phase of life with another year older. Bought him two t-shirts...hope he'll like it...

Living Life to the Fullest

Bank account balance dropping fast - school fees, transportation, entertainment, food and even wedding dinner.

I've got an wedding dinner invitation to Intercontinental this Sat. HongBao of course must be big. Gosh, such a posh ballroom, and i suppose the wedding is really grand. Kind of look forward, not only to the food but also to see the blissful face of my colleague.

Speaking of her, it's tough on her. The way both of us enter into this company and worked our way till today. Almost 2 months, we are considered senior to all the newly arrived interns. I'm covering for 2 more person who's away from work because of leave, now, i'm doing 3 persons work. Even got scolding for mistakes other do. I was telling Dear how unaffected i am because it's not my pure mistake afterall. Politics didn't affect me as well because i chose not to be in it. I take what comes in my path and if i can't cope, so be it. I was telling Dear how we shouldn't let work stress us, it should be how we see it and make the most out of what we have, in this way, we'll enjoy our job, i'm loving my job to a certain extent...It's tiring, yes, plus the fact that i've evening classes, but i love the way it is right now, balanced of life and occupied with the necessaries....

I was telling Don how boring work can be. Imagine those who work and go home, sleep then the next day, back to work again .This routinely life can kill or bore one to death. When i'm in Japan, i saw with my own eyes how workaholic Japanese can be. I was even told by the tour guide that each day, there's people in Japan killing themselves or become mentally ill just because they were too stressed from work. I seriously cannot imagine what's the point of working so hard..If working hard means contributing alot of the economy? Let's look at European countries. Switzerland go on a 4 1/2 day work week. Sweden's even better, 3 day week. England and Germany on 4 day work week. Singapore is considered 5 to 5 1/2 work week, yet there's still people working OT everyday and even working full 7 days a week. Where's the life?

I realise the importance of spending time for myself, my beloved, my family and friends as well. If not, it's never fair...work is never ending, but life is...

I couldn't ask for more...i'm contented, especially when it's just minutes away from our special digit - 28. Happy Day Dearie....Thanks for everything

Random Talks & MoonCake Festival

Let me boost more about the wonderful technology of the toilet in Japan. Seriously in Japan, this can be considered one of the most amazing inventions, so wonderful that people from all around the world has come to buy their technology. Imagine your house toilet having such technology, even better, imagine our public toilets equipped with such toilets. Woo, no more stinky smell, no more leakage, no more hygiene problems etc...

Firstly, it's just like any other toilet bowl we see. It's just that It's equipped with a few buttons and sensors. The sensor are able to detect your movement flushes the water accordingly. Washing your butt can be as simple as pressing just onw button.

Cleaning not thorough enough? Put your hand near the sensor, without even having to press or pull any lever, the toilet bowl will flush by itself. You can even set the amount of pressure of water. Cool huh...

Japan's Wonderful Technology

Washing your butt with just one button

Flush the toilet bowl without even pulling any lever

If you happen to be around Marina Square and feeling hungry, be sure to pop by their food court. Up the escalator and walk straight, you will see a roasted duck rice stall. They never failed to wow me each time i patronise them. I've recommended it to lots of friends ever since and none feedback negatively. Try it..especially their roasted duck, soy sauce chicken and also Char Siew...Yummy..

Their Platter of different types of Meats...

We did have our fair share of fun playing candles, sparklers and also with lanterns this weekend. Sadly, i wasn't able to join MR for another fun...

Not forgetting the mooncakes i bought from Marriott yet again. Their chocolate mooncake is really nice. Well, for $7.50, although it's rather expensive but i really feel it's worth that amount. How i wish i could buy a few more...yummy

Dynasty Chess

http://www.viwawa.com/en_US/game/DynastyChess

The link will bring you to the latest game introduced by www.viwawa.com. It's actually just chinese chess, but it's chinese chess at its cutest. The way they design the game makes it so interesting to play that i fell in love with it at first sight. Though my chinese chess skills has greatly deproved, i still think that i'll be able to enjoy this very game myself...and hopefully, regain back my glorious moments, like those days in primary school...oops, did i mention primary school??

Movies and Mooncakes

Caught two movies ever since i'm back from Hokkaido. First movie was with Donna. We spoke of how we must watch this movie back when we watched the trailer at the theater and reckon that this would be an action-packed and nice movie.

Indeed, it didn't disappoint us. Especially the part when 'Frankenstein' and Joe tag-team together to destroy the huge truck and also make their escape out of Terminal Island during the 3rd stage of the race. I'll give it a 4.5/5 rating.

One of the nicest action movie - Even Don wondered if there's a game of it..

Jason Statham is the best suitable for this role in my personal view..

Next movie turned out to be abit disappointing, even though the necessary element of comedy is still there. Starting of the movie and towards the middle, it really bores me. It's too draggy by telling us how Wall-E life was. But i admired the way Wall-E handled his item...if only i can be as organised as him. I'll give a rating of 3/5..

Wall-E

At last, i bought my very own mooncake yesterday. However, i regretted buying it over at some ordinary bakery because today, my colleague gave me this very superb piece of mooncake from Marriott Hotel - durian flavoured. I could sense the smell of durian even when the mooncake is like 30cm away from me. I didn't eat it, but gave Dearie instead. Everyone and anyone who ate it gave it a thumbs up. Indeed, the price for that kind of quality. Really tempts me to rush down to the hotel to get my favourite flavour of mooncake. Who knows? I might just get it over the weekend.

Speaking of Mooncake festival. I'm looking forward to this Sunday, whereby like what ShuXia mention, the never breaking of the tradition. It'll also be the first time i'll be playing my lanterns (more like burning it) with Dearie...Beware!!!

Tour-Leading in Hokkaido

Tour Lead at last. Never mind all the rants but still, everything ended off great. My last night in Japan was in Tokyo, I spent it thinking how much would I miss this ‘Land of the Rising Sun’ and also the bombardment of questions to me from many and many of my beloved ones and friends which I haven’t seen for days.

My first time tour-leading. Excitement, anxiety and many other mixed emotions raced around my blood veins. Not long ago, thanks to help of Auntie Aileen, I find myself in the plane. Longest flight ever of 7 hours. I got my back aching at the end of the ride. I experienced the best of Japanese service when I’m on board the flight. An air-stewardess spilled a glass of plain water on me, she went on speaking her Japanese away but I supposed she must be saying ‘Sorry, Sorry, and Sorry’. Repeatedly, I told her I’m fine, on the other hand, she appeared fearful, afraid that I might be angry. There she goes, repeating what she says and there I went, not bothering to tell her I’m really fine…DUH!

On board the aircraft, the meal was something i look forward to, but it disappointed. By flying ANA (All Nippon Airways), i thought i would expect something very Japanese or at the very least, Asian, but it turned out otherwise. They served my Western food. Look at the potato, pasta...eww.. I ate something which i don't even dared to eat in the past. I guess Don must be stunned at this.

My On-Board Meal

That 7 hours flight was terrible. I couldn't stand that awkward position on that seat and this terrible ordeal was at last over and i'm finally at Japan. I've stepped foot onto the land of Japan and it's kind of unbelievable for myself at first.

Welcome To Japan!

After the international flight from Singapore to Narita (Toyko), we still have to take another Domestic flight to Chitose (Sapporo). It's a whole day at travelling at by the time i reach Hokkaido, i'm shagged. Now i know what's jet-lagged. Never mind the tiredness, on my way to the airport hotel, i was enticed by the variety of Japanese food along the food outlets. I wondered to myself, 'Am i in for a food feast'??

The Huge Variety of Japanese Food..

My dinner was far apart from what i saw on my way to the hotel. Nevertheless, it tasted good for my very first meal in Japan. I ate Sashimi which i find it a chore in Singapore, perhaps it's all because it tastes much nicer here. Yummy.

My First Meal in Japan @ Chitose Airport Hotel

My room was a WOW! Their single bed is actually bigger than the one at my room. Thank goodness they have the LAN connection in their room and within minutes, i'm connected to Don.

My Room

Tour leader and tour guide are not allowed to sleep in the same room, therefore, i have that room to myself. I'm going to sleep alone for whole 6 nights which is a really fresh experience for me. Outside the window, i could see plane parking and moving around (since it's an Airport Hotel).

Something amazing about this hotel room. Their air-con is detached on a shelf and blowing upwards. Which might just explains why i feel abit warm at times. It's cool though...Their in-room facilities was cool, plus their toilet. I realised by now that all their toilets has this function that is able to wash your butt for you after you shit. Not only that but also they have seperate buttons for both female and male. How cool is that, awesome to me! Even modern toilets even blow and dry your butt before you even get up from the toilet bowl. A good idea for Lazy Singaporeans!

No worries on not be able to get myself to sleep. They have an in-built radio. However, everything they have is in Japanese, which i don't even understand a single thing, so in the end, it's the symphony music that sing me to sleep..Poor me...

Air-Con on the Shelf

Radio, Lighting, Alarm Clock (All in One)

And so, the tour starts on the second day. This shall be the time i set my eyes opened big and see Japan starting from Hokkaido. The weather day is simply perfect. There's sun yet it's cooling and not bright. I noticed they display the temperature everywhere to keep people aware of it. How thoughtful...

Advert + Temperature

There are some amazing things i see along the way and i'll capture it onto my camera and share it....

Their road barriers are cute, different from those in Singapore

At last, we reached Otaru Canal. One of my favourite destinations because of the weather there. Really, when the weather is good, your mood naturally feels good as well. I shopped abit here and tasted one of the nicest chocolates and cream puff over here.

Otaru Canal

Clock + Temperature

Natural Spring Water for Drinking

Heard from my colleagues that Hokkaido ice cream is one of the 'must try' and i really see and even tasted it for myself. Their ice cream has this kind of smoothiness that i can't explain it. You really have to try it for youself. Even those sold in Singapore are nothing as compared to the ones here. Moreover, they even allow you to top and combine different flavours all into one cone. Yummy..Eating ice cream in this cooling weather makes my mood even better.

Hokkaido Ice Cream

Streets of Otaru

Another amazing thing about Japan is their vending machine. I couldn't help but take a few photos of their vending machines. Just tea and coffee alone, they have tons of variety of it in one vending machine. And they don't just have one vending in one area byt it's a few vending machines side by side, all selling different beverages.

Vending Machine

Alaska Crab - they are really HUGE.

六花亭 - They sell superb cream puffs, even better than beard's papa!

You have to be extra careful when eating this cream puff because the cream is so smooth than it oozed out like liquid.

Kuma VS the PUMA in Singapore..

Yes, we can see Japanese's attempt to learn English..

One thing i have to praise Japanese about. Their toilet are perfectly clean. I heard from the tour guide that even the toilet cleaner takes pride in their work and they really make sure the toilets are clean at all times. Not only that but also because those using the toilets also make sure they try to keep it clean. Japanese are really disciplined and clean.

Their public toilet - clean as ever.

One of my customers ordered a live abalone and i could see it dancing itself to death.

My lunch - Tempura Rice.

Speaking of my lunch, i realised every meal i have here, they are bound to come with a bowl of miso soup. Unfortunately, i don't like Miso Soup...

At last, i chanced upon Macdonald. I haven't seen a single fast food outlet in Japan ever since i touched down. I wanted to try their burgers but sadly, time doesn't allow me to..

Look at the variety of burger they have.

A huge variety of RAMEN!!!!

Reached Sapporo after that. They have this underground shopping centre, something like our Dhoby Xchange but doesn't have much to offer. I finally get to see the Saporro clock tower and besides that, nothing much is there, except for Odori park which i missed it because of two customers..

Sapporo Clock Tower

Reached my hotel for the second night stay - APA Spa and Resort Hotel. This hotel has spa facilities. Japan's not only for their 'onsen' but also their spa as well. I tried it at last for the first time and i must say i'm really not used to it. From what i've learnt, Japan has lots of different types of hot bath. Ranging from temperature between 25 degree celcius to the maximum 103 degree celcius, YES, 103 degree celcius, anyone who go in is bound to be cooked.

Sleeping alone in a room with two bed can be scary....really scary..

The third day arrived and we are here at Ainu Village. Ainu's a type of culture which is starting to extinct. They are animalists and i'm here to experience their culture which is kind of boring for me.

Ainu Village

Statue of Ainu Village Chief

Scenery of Ainu Village

At last, my first bowl of Ramen in Japan...Yummy. It's Ramen in Soya Sauce Soup.

They used to huge crab to attract customers.

And of course, who would have missed this huge black bear as well...

In Singapore, we have digital display to show the fuel prices, they used board to display instead..it's hard work...

Arrived at Mt Showa. Interesting story behind it. Go wiki it if you are interested. The mountain actually still has smoke coming out from it. Really cool. Plus the nice backdrop behind it, this scenery is really nice..

You can notice the mild smoke coming out from the mountain...

Speaking of nice scenery and nothing beats the one at Lake Toya. With a nice history behind it, this place is really amazing it. One of the nicest scenery i've ever seen for myself in my life..

Lake Toya Viewing Bay

Nice Scenery @ Lake Toya

Mt Fuji

At Lake Toya, my tour guide introduced this sausage to me. It turned out to be cheese hotdog. I can taste the cheese from it but somehow, it's tasty. I can see the reaction on Don's face now...Evil Huh!

Cheese Hotdog... (Bring it on Donna)

Arrived at Toya Kanko Hotel @ Lake Toya not long after. I can even continue viewing the nice scnery from my room window. This hotel is abit special. First, it has 'onsen' facility, the only night i can spent soaking myself in real 'onsen' which contains sulphur. Another thing about this hotel is that they don't have a proper bed. We have to sleep in this hotel 'the Japanese way'. Third and best part of this hotel is that, every night, they have fireworks display and i really feasted my eyes that very night to a 20 mins of fireworks display...Everything about this area is simply fascinating, except for the room. It was the worst hotel room out of the six hotels i've stayed throughout the whole tour - it's abit warm, stuffy, infested with a few mosquitoes and the fact that i have to sleep on a rugged mattress.

Lake Toya

The Perfect Nice View of Lake Toya

The tour guide made the whole tour gather for dinner at the hotel's so called ballroom. We all wore this Japanese costume (i forgot the name of the costume). The clothing is thin but it's super big in size. It made me look so skinny as a result, well, i'm not the only one. We then help ourselves to this very Japanese dinner. Sashimi is not my type of food (I know Don will say i'm stupid), so i cooked it by placing it on top of the hot mini wok. Wahaa..But then again, this is the place where i had my first nice bite of Sashimi....so contradicting isn't it...

Me in Japanese Costume

The Very Japanese Dinner

After that, it's onwards to some really awesome sight-seeing. Before this trip, all i see is photos of the beauty of Hokkaido. Never did i expect what i see before me is really the real floral beauty of Hokkaido. This land is really covered with lots of greens and colourful flowers. I can't believe my eyes at times.

On our way to explore the floral beauty, the green pastures pave the path for us..

At Farm Tomita

I was stumbled for words when i see what's before me..

Lavender ice cream seems to be a must try in Hokkaido. Everywhere seems to have this popular ice cream selling on display. I tried it for myself. Well, appearance is nice and tempting but the taste don't really suits me eventually...

The Lavender Ice Cream

Next, i arrived at 四季之丘. The flowers there is even more awesome than the ones in Farm Tomita. It's as though the sight i see is that of those i seen from the postcard.

Look at this Rainbow of Flowers...It's sheer hard work..

Some of these sunflowers are even taller than you and me...

This Viewing Bay looks like a Modern Spacecraft..

I have no idea. Ever since i'm in Hokkaido, i have this huge craving for Ramen. I love the ramen over there. Especially this meal, they comes with Gyoza. Simply yummy. I keep telling myself, i must go back to Ajisen when i'm back in Singapore and i must apply their member card!

There's not much night life in Japan. Most of their shops closes latest 9pm. So basically every night once i check into the hotel, i'm stuck to my own room...


Something amazing about the hotels in Japan. They seldom have double beds. Most of the time, they would provide twin beds instead. And also, every TV comes with a digital set top. This set top has a card slot whereby you will have to purchase a card from either the lobby or corridor. What's even amazing is that the content you can get by purchasing this card are those AV Idols (Adult Content). Good publicity for their own local adult movies....


Next up is Sake brewery. This particular brewery has won golds awards for their sake for decades and i learnt from it that it's actually an amazing feat. Sadly again, i don't know how to appreciate sake so this trip is a wasted one for me, however, i did tried one of their sake and it's really a fresh experience for me...perhaps it's a good start for me..

Tools they used to brew the sake..

Later that day, we headed down to 狸小路. It's like the Far East of Singapore, but the only difference is that instead of the mountains and mountains of clothes, they have tons and tons of local tidbits. All so yummy then i helped myself with it until when i ended up at the cashier, the boss has to fill all my buying into a carton box. I just can't wait to open them all up...

狸小路

Look at their vending machine - Spoilt for Choices

Next, i want to mention about this cool aeroplane. This aeroplane is specially pokemon-themed. My favourite cartoon and i can't helped but take a few more photos of this plane. The interior of this plane is so 'pokemon' as well, from its seats to the carpet. It's certainly my best domestic flight ever...

Pokemon Theme Domestic Plane

Reached this temple in Toyko. Nothing much except for the fact that i finally get to eat Macdonald in Japan. Plus the big 波罗包. It look so big and get crispy...just the thought of it now makes me drool....are you??

The temple

波罗包, does it tempt you?

The variety of Tempura being sold along the streets

My Macdonald meal in Toyko

The tour guide treated me to this combi flavoured ice cream - green tea + red bean + barley..wow!

To tell the truth, Chinese food in Japan is rare. However, our tour itinerary includes Chinese meal and it's really nice. I even get to eat my favourite abalone (though it's just a few slices).

Yummy Chinese Dinner...

My last night is spent in Garden Hotel Narita, Toyko and it marks the near end of the almost wonderful trip. The bed at this hotel is also the biggest i've ever slept on in Japan..

This above photo marks the end of my trip. Everyone has been nice throughout the trip, making my tour-leading task a fulfilling and satisfying one. Even the tips given by them feeds my pocket fat...Haa...By the time i arrived at Changi Airport, my back is aching (again, because of the long flight) and with me carrying so much stuff (near 30kg), even the trolley can't fit whatever i have.

I look forward to next trip...when? where?