cbox out, comments in!

Due to obvious spamming of my cbox, I have officially taken it off the page and is therefore, not in operation.

Do feel free to drop comments and for those who just wanna say 'hi', you can do it there, too, until I find a more convenient tool that caters to my needs hehe.

Peace \/

New beginnings....Again?

One thing I've come to realise when it comes to making resolutions is that they are a continuous process, not to be left to the beginning of the year only to be frowned upon at the end of it.
Every day is an opportunity to learn and grow.

It's been about 2 months now since I started my LL.B. At the beginning of it, I truly was excited after the long break. Then, I got even more excited with the whole new world I was being exposed to - The world of the legal profession. Not to mention, the amount of studying one needs to undertake. Yes, I was excited.

Then, it all started getting to me. I either was too stressed or too relaxed. I was aware of the workload and now, I feel a little left behind. There is always time to catch up since it's an 'early detection'.

That was not the only thing. I felt like part of me had been ripped off. Missing In Action, I would say. There was this thing inside me that had kept me going, and it was doing the disappearing act due to a string of events. So, I turned to the closest reflection I had - my siblings. Mental note: no need to search for a personal psychiatrist later on!

They each handled different aspects of my issues haha. And because I used to give them my honest opinion on many occasions, when we have "the talk" and all, they reflected my own values towards me as a sort of reminder of the person that I am.

Sparing most of the details, one issue of which my sister and I spoke about was me doing what I needed to do. At the end of my vague cry-out to her, she told me something I knew all along haha! It hit me then, I was trying to be something that I was not, and in the process, losing a certain character in me which I respected. She reminded me of what drove me to do the things I did. Her feedback and my thoughts rang a wake-up call inside me.

After a week long self-reflection process, and now some unexpected decisions I made which have altered the way I take actions, I am IN FOR A NEW BEGINNING! I am being tested against time. Then again, what better way to build character!

So, Again, A toast to New Beginnings!!

a new life

Things have been pretty "shifty" for me the past month...I've started law classes (loads of work) and I've been moving around more often than I ever have...

From inter-city public transport to long journeys back home..plus ample walking..and meeting so many different people...Life has changed haha...I'm practically living off my bags now, at home and everywhere else...new places everyday, new attitudes (not that i'm in favour of some), new smiles, new friends :)

Time - once again taken the front seat..everything measured against it..complete pages and pages of readings..lunch breaks haha (what do you want to eat today?)..everyday is a mystery..with new friends, my close friend and i discover new places..lucky to have her around..heart-breaking having to "open wallet" every time..

did u know, law lecturers have a really good sense of humour? haha they talk well (part of the job rite) and they dress well (u can go on gawking at some of them hehe)..

it's all challenging...in a good way...life's not easy...and that's a good thing...'cos someone out there is having it worse than me..so no complaints..just taking it all in..i know this post has proven to be soooo random, which i don't normally encourage myself to do...but hey it's my blog!! (biasness allowed :)

taking it all positively, it's all a good thing..probably sign up for a society soon enough..learn more things..law is not all about the books (Everyone says that psshh!!)..yet, another good thing..yeh!! i love to read and write...doesn't mean i love staring at pages all day long..gotta be realistic aite? then again, i did consider joining the college's editorial team hmmm must be in the blood..

i've lost an umbrella, slipped and fell in public, dropped my stuff ample of times, almost got caught in between closing train doors, sat with an oh-so-unpleasant lady, met a really distant relative on the bus, waited for the train for about an hour (bad service :p), accidentally wet my top when i was making my way out of the toilet, didn't realise i had a button open until i looked down to check my bags, there's an elderly man in my class who's taking his law degree (determination, that one), had a hilarious train ride with my 3-year-old cousin, becoming an expert on getting around the city (exaggeration, i know hehe), still haven't figured out the bus system, found out there's a college in the train station itself, discovered that fast food is sometimes cheaper compared to most food (gotta "discover" more reasonably-priced places)..

anyway, the BEST part of it all............coming home during the weekend :)

We The Kings ft. Demi Lovato: We'll Be A Dream (Official HD Video)

Of Fathers and their Hidden Roles

I came across this article posted by my friend on his blog. I just so loved it. Makes you think of fathers in a different perspective. It's in Malay though so for those you who can read it, do take the time to do so :)

DADDY/PAPA/APPA/ATTA/ABI

Thanks again Firdaus :)

Musings for Today

• This is my 81st post...cool :)
• Blew bubbles out of my nostrils...effect of using too much face cleanser.
• No tuition classes to teach cos my student/cuzzie had to go for physiotherapy. Mine is on Thursday.
• Warmed up vegetarian food from 2 nights ago for lunch.
• Replied pending emails.
• Got excited all over again for my pending project.
• Finally made up my mind regarding THE next step.
• Found a primary school friend on Facebook. Almost ignored that request cos I cudn't recognise her.
• Got some excellent traffic jam tips from a friend whose now in KL.
• Had a chat with a gal i met in camp and a guy i met in tuition.
• Searched chords for several songs to play on the piano. Have to start working on them.
• Watched a documentary on Shaolin monks.
• Made tea for the family. They still say it's not sweet enough :p
• Declared an official salute to the dear men and boys in my life on Facebook.

TO-DO LIST...for the rest of the week.

• Clear up my room. Got the boxes. Just need to sort out the stuff.
• Start packing the other bags.
• Meet up with a friend over the week.
• Get in touch with a teacher I've been trying to meet.
• Make arrangements for THE next step.
• Start on my pending project.
• Work on my songs.
• Tell appa about THE next step.
• Blog about The Last Airbender. Yes, I watched it!
• Help grandma scan some stuff.
• ....and that's all that comes to mind right now :)

The weekend...Boot camp!!

If I don't get this done now, I'd probably sweep it into a quiet little place which will be forgotten so here it is..the update of the weekend - Sunway's very first Boot Camp!!

After being so indecisive about the whole thing, I finally signed up for it. Bumped about not having my friends come along (I tried really really hard)...but it was alright. Few of them were in the organising committee and there were a whole lot of new friends to be made =)

The day that I was leaving...BAD MOOD!! didn't like the way I was reacting for no apparent reason and I probably pissed everyone off too..luckily they are the AWESOME family that I most LOVE and CARE about...the dearest people that would put up with anything I dish out...THANK YOU =)

Bags packed, I was running behind schedule..when I reached, saw familiar faces..luckily they hadn't started..got a peek at the groupings list...I did not know anyone!!...so what..that's what we were there for right?? 'Come as Friends, Leave as Family'...thumbs up for the slogan!!

Walking to the campsite..firstly, I did NOT expect the walk to be that LONG..second, the toilets were such a long way from campsite!...third, it was such a BEAUTIFUL view!!! Loved it ever so much..though I wouldn't wanna live in a place like that hehe...

We had to come up with group names and cheers..plus flag drawing competition!..the name part..Eon - creative much :) WOSAR!! not gonna reveal what it stands for :p the group cheer hehe though it sounded a lil more harsh than the other groups, we won the BEST CHEER award! yeh!! thanks to group leader Wei Quing too..the flag well we sorta had to make do with everything we had..the hand print part..again...genius!

And the idea (by ms liza) to take this shot..love it :)

Then, it was off to station games..by this time, 2 more new friends..Kit and Stephanie..funny duo..missing u guys..oh ya, we had to set up our own tents, too..tat's where I met Vasu, Aruna and Kuen May..tent mates!
It started pouring right after the first station, so we all gathered and well, did what we do best - EAT!! We also played the untangle game..and a new one..my favourite - kung fu master, ah beng ah seng (i think tat's wat they called it), red indians and cowboy!! hahahahahaha still laughing thinking about tat one...

Walking back to campsite...ahh!! muddy ground..tents were a little wet..sticky sticky..yuck yuck haha...part of the fun..at night, CAMPFIRE!! we got to do this dance I learnt during guiding days..found out they have a chinese version of it too..then I finally got to learn the Lousiana dance..or whatever u call it..that was fun fun FUN!!..we did the Waka Waka cheer around the campfire..only thing, our feet kept sticking in the mud lol...

That night, we had the chance to go to a DJ mixing event organised in LWOT..since we were already there, we got to get in for free..i'd never been to anything like it so it was a first for me..new experience..loved the lighting..after an hour or so, walked up to where some of the others who weren't joining were sitting..a little more calmer there haha..talk stories..hehe ms liza's love story lagi..one by one, more campers gathered there...we waited until a larger group had gathered before walking back together..i was sooo tired, i couldn't be bothered about the inadequate space or condition in the tent..though i did hear alot of singing, laughing, talking, and fake firework cheers..u ppl really got me there..and there i was thinking i missed out hehe...

morning the next day...all excited for the race..after warming up (and getting entertained by victor's monkey faces and all sorts of stunts) we were READY!! ran and ran WOW...it was fun..we lost our way to the 1st station :p i got minor scratches during the 1st task..small matter..there was rafting (now i know i'm not good in it haha funny experience with Kit), swan boat paddling (cycled so hard with Eon), went down the water slide with Betty (didn't expect it to get that fast towards the end), looking for clues, getting stared at visitors..so much fun..we came in last btw hahahaha...

we got to go 'behind the scenes' of Tiger Valley...the tiger trainer was sooo tall..i looked down to check if he was standing on higher ground haha...learnt so much there..later, enjoyed the dry park with Stephanie, Kaylee and Melissa...i went for so many spins until i felt sick to the stomach..then director paid a visit, plus award time and then packing up before enjoying the rest of the park!..the hotsprings was so soothing to my tired legs...

finally it was time to ciao!! had so much fun...made many new friends...and to the organising committee..u guys did a splendid job!!

Let the Word Do the Work

Let the Word Do the Work - how we tend to misuse words :p

This left me laughing to bits.

Especially loved the comment left by Rod on Sept 3, 2009.

Hilarious!!

I Write Like..

Fact: I love writing.

Not just anything. I'm picky. Yet the fact remains. 

Stumbled across this page, I Write Like, that analyses an excerpt of yours, and tells you which famous writer you write like. Soooo, I took a few paragraphs from some of my latest posts and tested it. Then, I went on trying some of my earlier posts. I did get different results but the most common was Cory Doctorow.

Honestly, never heard of this guy. His last name looks like Doctor + Crow!! Not a fan of both :p 

It was fun though =)


UPDATE:


While I was browsing a little more, came across this page, the Gender Genie that actually tries to analyse which gender the writer is based on keywords of the excerpt. Once you get your results, (I got 'female' by the way, no doubts there :p), they actually produce a calculation sheet as to how your post produced that result.

NESCAFÉ® Kick Start - Where Dreams Become Reality

Thought it was pretty cool!!

Something new, refreshing =)

You get to land a 3 month internship for your dream job AND it may be turned into a full-time employment deal.

Personally, I loved every choice on the list ;)

Astounded!!

YouTube - Chopin Etude op.25 no.11 "Winter wind"

What book's next on your list?

Was blog-hopping and came across What To Read Next: Oprah's Summer Reading Quiz. Just answer a few questions and it's suppose to select the next book to read that's most suitable to your taste. Tried it and I got:

The Passage by Justin Cronin

Should give it a try soon...hope it's worth my time ;)

mornings :p

Pay attention to what you do...however big or small the task...definitely learnt my lesson :p

Today morning, I brushed my teeth with face cleanser!! and only noticed after not detecting the "minty-ness". Laughed at myself in the mirror but even extra toothpaste didn't help much hehe..

After posting that on Facebook, someone commented that it was good it didn't happen the other way around.

Now, that gave me an idea.

I'm gonna try toothpaste on my face..small experimental area. Hopefully it doesn't damage the skin :p Hopefully it's safe enough to experiment in that way haha

Are you ruining your skin?

Just about to log out when I came across Yahoo!'s article on 10 Things That Are Ruining Your Skin.

One that caught my eye - Stress! We've been told time and again how harmful over-stress can be. Seems all too normal for me to catch people posting a status that has an affinity towards it. Come on, people. If stress is going to take a toll on your skin, I'm out...

I just loved this one -Beauty Sleep. Yup! Sleep, that's when the body's anti-inflammatory molecules are at their highest. 8 hours is a must. So, sleep away for a healthier looking skin =) (and I don't mean extra hours in the morning 'cos that'll be contradictory to my previous post :p)

Well, supposed to have posted this last night..when the power went out :p Thank you Blogger for having so frequent draft-savers. A real life-saver :)

Waking up early

I'm reading Robin Sharma's The Greatness Guide and every chapter has been food for thought. Many of the ideas aren't so alien but it helps revisit all that I've come to know so far. The guy is full of positivity throughout the book, though I may not completely agree with everything he writes.

What made me switch on the computer at this hour was the latest chapter I got myself into -  Be Wise, Early Rise. Always heard people say that to be a good leader, you've got to wake up earlier than the rest. Knowing that sleeping is one of my greatest pleasures, I take pride in having the urge to wake up early so that I could accomplish more for the day.

Some tactics he shared in his book:
1. Don't lounge in bed. Bet many can relate to that. Should jump right out when the alarm goes off. I do find that easy to do when there's something that I need to do, like a reason to wake up, which is another point he discusses later - have goals in life that make you want to get out of bed every morning. Like Benjamin Franklin said,"There'll be plenty of time to sleep when you are dead". I am still not overruling the pleasure of snuggling in bed on a cold, cozy morning ;)

2. Set the alarm 30 minutes fast. A wonderful thing the brain is. It learns. Picks up more stuff than you do consciously. It may work for a while but once the brain has figured it out, it can even tell you,"Ah, it's alright. The clock is fast anyway. Take it easy. Plenty of time". Sneaky little thing. Best thing to do, and I've tried it too, is to tell myself before bed what I need to accomplish the next day and how much time that is going to need. Only by waking up early can all that be done so, wake up all bright (no moody face :p) and jump right into the day. So far, it has worked 'cos I'm not cheating anyone, especially myself. And the brain knows that, too :)

3. Give it 30 days. Now this one I've heard from my grandmother. Old habits die hard. Can't blame them, they are that way because we constantly 'practised' them, right? So, get a new habit in with a little determination and it'll stick on. Still, who doesn't love that feeling of knowing that you can go back to sleep on the weekend after a long week hehe...

Playing the piano

Came across this site for those who want to learn any instrument by ear, at any level:

Hear and Play Music Learning Center..Best part...it's free. All that's needed is some DILIGENCE :P

I think it'll be a good way to spend some of my time hehe :p Hoping for the best, always :)

Oh ya..almost forgot..if you're a complete beginner, and you really really really want to know how to play that song without having to go through all the heartache of learning the piano, go to Pianocheats.com Wonderful work by the blogger.

To Do or Not To Do?

One thing bothering me about the past one year is how "relaxed" I've been. I mean, I've always been diligent at my work, maybe I worked too hard. So, when I entered college for my pre-u, it was time to relax, or so I thought. I did put in the work, but not as much as I could have. Yeah, the transition period was like madness, going from Science to Arts, completely different subjects, except for Maths, and thus a different studying approach. I worked at it from the very beginning, to adapt quickly, create the interest for the subject and get myself into the game. Still, not all that satisfied. Could have done better.

Taking things positively, I did learn my lesson - work and play equally. Guess I slipped up a little. Not the way I would play the game, knowing that I played it right all this while. Now that I know 'how to slip up', I would definitely be more cautious next time.

There was a suggestion though. Redo the papers. Not all of them, just the ones I wasn't so confident with. Doesn't seem like a bad option, since the exams would be at the end of the year. I've got my basics, just need to sharpen those edges. However, I'd already be well on my way with my degree. So, what's the point?

Something to prove to myself. It's not just an entry requirement or a paper qualification, it's a self-achievement. When I see good results on a paper, it tells me I've done my very best, and I can move on. Not getting those grades, I feel, would in the long-term make me feel like there was that one thing I couldn't do. I could have done better, but I didn't - self-esteem issues, perhaps?

I know I can move on, taking it as a good lesson for the future. Still, what if I gave myself another chance? I don't want to tell myself one day, yeah I did that subject in A-Levels but if you ask me anything about it, I'm totally nil. Not the way I would want to look at myself. It's an education I'm getting, not just some grades on a paper. Therefore, to do or not to do? I'd better make up my mind fast 'cos time is running up.

A Wholesome Education System?

We're getting there...fingers crossed!

I was out today with amma and sis. A 15-year-old approached my mother saying he was looking for a job. His mother had broken her leg and was immobile. He dropped out of school and is looking for a job. Asked amma where he could get vegetables-his sister hasn't eaten. Father had left them to fend on their own. Now, I don't know how true his story is. Amma just told him to get back to school. He didn't belong out there in the working world just yet.

Made me think. Shouldn't the school be aware of the boy's absence? Shouldn't they take active measures to get this boy to stay in school, and contact someone who could help out this family? Were they just closing an eye knowing that so many children like these were out there making it out somehow?

Then, there is my neighbour. Father does contract jobs. Mother is an alcoholic. She helped babysit so many children. It's a small area they live in and yet practically everyone they knew were bunking in. Bad influence on the children - drug addicts, heavy smokers and alcoholics. Now, the eldest son has dropped out of school, with his father agreeing to him working. The second has major discipline problems in school and wants to follow suit. What will happen to these children? How much can the education system do when the parents are not cooperative enough?

When I was in primary school, there were students who just 'didn't get it'. Teachers would scold, whack, criticise harshly. Didn't anyone see maybe there was more to it than just giving extra classes for them to catch up? There were root problems that were not addressed. I vividly remember a girl that hardly spoke. She did not respond much to anything. Never saw her cry, laugh, nothing. She didn't do well academically or in sports. Teachers were obviously irritated. Thinking back, they had targets to reach and students like these were  like a setback. Weren't teachers supposed to be the guiding lights in a student's life?

A friend I know opted for the Arts stream although given the Science stream. Generally, people looked down at these students. Teachers were pressured to make them perform. What they couldn't see was the other strengths of these students - their creativity, the passion they have for the subjects they love, the caring hearts that forged amazing friendships. Yet, they were always compared to the "better" Science stream students, and harsh words were thrown at them, demotivating them, telling that they were not good for anything. Is this what we expect of the teaching force? Aren't these the very people who were supposed to bring out the best in a student? To realise their untapped potential?

We do have a long way to go. The education system should be redefined to cater for every student's needs. It should be able to identify students with learning disabilities, encourage them out of their little shells, tap brilliant hidden potentials, and prepare the youths to make a better world for tomorrow. We've all got a role to play to better the system. A small step it may be but every step counts.

The Last Airbender

Being an avid cartoon-watcher (not sure if that's an acceptable phrase ;)), I just lurrrvveeddd to watch Avatar. You know, the kid with the arrow on his head :

Watched the trilogy from 2005 right up to 2008 on Nickelodeon. What intrigued me most about this cartoon series was the storyline. I was getting a little fed-up with the cliche ones, and this was something different. Yeah, core story, good guy vs bad guy. Yet, this was just different. You'll get the idea if you watched it. The other characters are just lovable, too.

The idea revolves around the four Nations : Air, Earth, Water and Fire. So, the characters are different based on the nations they come from. The conflicts they endure within, the change in their character over time, etc. makes it so grounded to reality.

My personal favourite: Zuko, a.k.a. the bad guy. Well, he started out bad, didn't quite like him then haha but the character evolves over time, as his background is slowly exposed to the viewers. Love the way they bring about the conflict that he faces and how he has to deal with them differently every time he faces the Avatar.

Angry, rejected, attempting-to-gain-his-pride-back Zuko









Calm, deep-thinking, conflicted Zuko









I'm obviously anticipating the upcoming movie: The Last Airbender. Though I'm quite uncertain if it'll measure up to the excitement the cartoon series delivered. Still, the fact that M. Night Shyamalan is directing it gives me a little hope :)

Please...please...please...let justice be done to this movie!

My little KL adventure

I have officially completed my A-levels. The exams were challenging, some gave me this surprise (and rather hard!) kick on my behind to teach me that I should always give myself the benefit of doubt, and prepare for 'worse-case-scenarios', if you may.

The following day, two of my friends and I made a little adventurous trip to KL. We were on an information-seeking mission, one of which served more importance to me. I had two colleges in mind, though I did not know exactly where they were located. So we walked and asked for directions every step of the way, not knowing that one of the colleges was right in front of us. The sign board was too high for the pedestrian walking nearby, and I definitely did not expect a college to be located above a bank! The location was not my cup-of-tea and I did not take too much of a liking to the councilor that was assigned to us. In my opinion, he was more interested in promoting his field of profession compared to another popular one and the programmes that he was actively involved in. I would have preferred a fair view on all options. 

Next, we hopped into a taxi and got to Petaling Street for lunch. The next destination was nearby, too. My first time being to PS and it didn't quite stand out as people said it would. I could get a similar scenario in my hometown pasar malam! Plus, here in pasar malam, I love it when you bump into people you know and have not seen in ages haha :p PS was thronged with foreigners at every corner, and the food wasn't all that either. Anyway, after walking a bit, we arrived at the next college. This was an unexpected location, too though I had already reduced my expectations after the previous incident. I must give credit though for their reception area (loved the design and calmness of the place). My friend had already warned me about the people there being too busy to attend to you. We waited quite a bit before the receptionist herself doubled-up as the councilor, only to provide us with a sheet of information, before passing us her contact info and rushing off to serve as an invigilator for on-going exams! 

As I broken-heartedly walked out of that college, scenic views of universities abroad flooded my mind. Now, it was time to cool-off  :)

We walked towards the nearest train station, having no idea where it was. People in KL are rather open and warm when it came to getting directions. I walked into this pet shop after we failed to catch a taxi. The lady spoke well and gave clear directions :) So there we were walking fast as the clouds started graying. Then, it started to drizzle. My friend just wanted to get a taxi so bad. I did not give up hahaha!! Finally got to the station and soon enough, we were at KLCC. More walking!

This was the first time in KL outside of Sunway Lagoon for one of my friends. So I looked like the 'more experienced one' hahaha...It was my first time to the Kinokuniya bookshop! I had never seen a bigger one!! Thanks Shin Li =) There were just too many varieties I couldn't stop at every shelf. After a couple of hours in there, we headed for dinner where my friend belanja us Pizza. Thanks Aaron!!

Soon, we headed to Old Train Station to catch our bus. It was fun walking around, glad I had the right shoes this time phew! We asked this girl for directions - she just nodded her head as 'yes' or 'no' with a smile...not a word did she utter...I've seen stranger people haha..

Finally, we got into the double decker bus half an hour earlier and just relaxed~ After the bus left, I made a prank call to amma saying the bus had left. We were just a minute late. Amma was worried and went on to say, you guys better put on your cutest faces and ask if u could hop on the next bus!! Hahahahahaha!! It was hilarious...amma bought the whole thing! Then, just before saying bye, I let her know and I heard a sigh of relief...Amma laughed and laughed.

It was a good trip overall. I enjoyed myself thoroughly. Thanks for being a part of it, guys. I still owe you   lunch :)

Grandpa...

I still remember sitting on grandpa's lap. He would feed us kuih lapis, lapis by lapis...and I'd love to say what colour each one of it is. He'll also buy his favourite kacang whenever he visited, peel them and give us some while popping a few into his mouth.

Today, I sat by his bed side. He fell back while sitting to have his ice cream. Sister and I helped him lie down and by then, he'd given up on the ice cream. I took the bowl and fed him, spoon by spoon. I took a few spoons myself.

His legs were shaking, the tremors were bad. Parkinson's, what a disease to have. Makes a strong, able man, so dependent on others, and the embarrassment when he falls, or suddenly stopping on the spot while walking.

Just happy that grandpa has his family by his side. The joy on his face when he sees his children and grandchildren...it always stimulates him to walk after a long day of just lying down on bed, grandma says. He's lucky, a dedicated nurse as his wife, a beautiful family that cares.

Keeping it Positive!

Well, the whole world didn't come crashing down though it did feel like that a few seconds ago. Anyway, back to keeping it positive, here's to New Beginnings...The Good and The Bad...Treat them as equals...Yet, dwell your memories in all that lightens the heart :-) Keep Moving Forward! Hoping for the best...Peace Out *big smile*

oh and...

HAPPY BIRTHDAY AMMA!!

will update on that too =)

Right now, I think I need to go to bed ;p

So much for a new beginning...

I know my mother has always said not to do anything when you're tired, just sleep it off. Can't believe what I just did!!! I accidentally deleted some of my previous, some being very precious posts on this blog!!!!!!! And as I clicked the 'delete' button, I was reminded that my actions cannot be undone. Yet, I clicked 'delete' for every one of those posts for the second time! Aaarghhh!!! And all when I've just re-designed my blog and was giving it some meaning as to it being a new beginning and all ~sigh~ Really, next time, just switch off the computer, close the books and GO TO BED!!!

fcbk updates...

Just a list of Facebook updates I thought were pretty interesting hehe...

"A heart breaking isn't always as loud as a bomb exploding.. Sometimes it can be as quiet as a feather falling.. And the most painful thing is, no one really hears it, except you.."

Awesome God sent His guardian angels to surround the cars parked outside our church when all other cars parked nearby got summoned...God really works wonders =)

♥ ♫♫♪♫♪ TaKe THe PoWeR oF LoVe & WHaT You WaNT iN LiFe & LoVe iT HoNesTLY ... MaKe SuRe THaT YouR DuTY iS oNLY To YouR HeaRT! ♫♫♪♫♪ ♥

The most important thing a father can do for his children is to love their mother.=]

sensable pe0ple alwiz think b4 they act,BUT stupid pe0ple advertise their ign0rance...

Nobody can go back n start a new begining but anyone can start today n make a new ending...

We are blessed with pain, most times, to make us stop and reflect

Tears shed for self are tears of weakness, but tears shed for others are a sign of strength

"Not everything that counts can be counted, and not everything that can be counted counts." (Sign hanging in Einstein's office at Princeton)

"A candle loses nothing if it is used to light another one..."

Dream as if you'll live forever, live as if you'll die today.

†hê mö§† ßê嵆l Ð梨övêr¥ †rµê £rïêñЧ måkê ï§ †hå† †hê¥ ¢åñ gröw §êþårå†êl¥ wï†höµ† gröwïñg åþår†.....

ever wonder?? ~Why doctors call what they do "practice"? ~Why you have to click on "Start" to stop Windows 98? ~Why lemon juice is made with artificial flavor, while dishwashing liquid is made with real lemons?

why do pretty shoes hurt so bad.

No man is truly married until he understands every word his wife is NOT saying

sometimes it is hard to hate people

DREAMS... Hold fast to dreams For if dreams die Life is a broken-winged bird That cannot fly. Hold fast to dreams For when dreams go Life is a barren field Frozen with snow.

to be famous, u have to fulfill these requirements: have a sob story, must willing to tell that story,must be a drug addict, alcoholic or sex addict, must have a constant vulnerability and must be willing to die young. (preferability tragically)

Who would have thought?

So there I was, trying to end my 2 weeks break by doing something DIFFERENT! I started out with some exercises with bro (he was my trainer, and a tough one too!). Then, the aches and pains kicked in. Just brushed them off and went on my way.

It got worse. To the extent I couldn't walk!

So, I was referred to an orthopedic surgeon. And behold, it was a spinal infection! Later found out it's called Pilonidal sinus.

Went through an op, dressing twice a day, and finally stitched up the wound. Will be off to get them out tomorrow morning.

It was terribly painful despite the heavy doses of painkillers. I am recovering :)

The best part of it all...the people...the kind nurses, staff, and the people who visited, called,...family, friends, strangers who became friends...so many heartfelt prayers...ppl who shed tears for me...ppl who re-visited...bought fruits and what not...and always a smile to cheer me up...a word of care...a caring hug...wonderful hearts :D

It made the pain seem like a minor thing in what seemed like long days...the nurses may have been wondering...I had visitors of all ages, colours, backgrounds...It is something that I'll cherish forever...to know that there are so many caring hearts out there...if you allow yourself to see them...

Thank you all for being there for me. It was an experience not to be forgotten.

Come Monday, I'll be back in college after a month!! Can't wait, though I know tonnes of work will be waiting for me! Got lots to catch up, refresh, and prepare for the major thing.

No complaints...I've got all I need...Now, it's time to put in the effort to see some good fruits of labour :)

Make it work!

Grandma had these wordings, amongst others. Just love it!

THE SECRET OF MAKING SOMETHING

WORK IN YOUR LIFE IS:

FIRST OF ALL, THE DEEP DESIRE

TO MAKE IT WORK;

THEN THE FAITH AND BELIEF

THAT IT CAN WORK;

THEN TO HOLD CLEAR DEFINITE VISION

IN YOUR CONSCIOUSNESS

AND SEE IT WORKING OUT STEP BY STEP,

WITHOUT ONE THOUGHT OF

DOUBT OR DISBELIEF.

- EILEEN CADDY

Today is gonna be superb!!

yeah...gotta get out a little from my holiday mood...

...and get back to WORK!!

Got to FOCUS!!

since it's still holidays...

maybe hang out with a fren later...

do my "training" with bro...

print out some stuff for grandma...

maybe do a little visiting...

not to mention, i just learnt something new on Word :)

It's only 2 months before the final showdown!!!!!

What am I thinking????

Another Mission at hand...oh yes!!

Bring it on!!

Feeling distressed? Read!

You know how it is when you're trying to find a solution to that nagging feeling inside you that you just can't comprehend?

I'd normally talk to my parents if I were in such a situation, but how do you do that when you can't even put your finger on what it is you're all worked up about?

(This is just super cute..adorable!!)

That is when I faithfully return to my hobby of reading!!

Yup, READING!!

(This is just a super cool logo I found on boston.com)

Never Ever Think that you're the only one who is going through whatever it is you're facing.

Basically, that's the idea. There is bound to be someone else who'd gone through it, and had been courageous enough to discuss it...or you'd be surprise at how much research is being done about the way people react to situations.

What I'd do is to start off somewhere..anywhere..and just click onto links that interest me the most. That way, I may have started reading one of my friend's updates on her blog, and then moved on to a site that she had mentioned about, browse through an interesting fact, swim across a heated debate, get a glimpse of a total stranger's life, and woa-la! Get an idea for my next move!

(from skateboardingtricksforbeginners.com)

Like today, for example, it happened again!!

So, after glancing through the usual sites, I started blog-hopping! Always intrigued by the stuff I stumble upon...especially when it is by chance!

And my, my, I could not believe my eyes when I came across a blogger whose latest post was about exactly what I was going through. Every inch of it.

('ciplak'ed from zdnet.com)

There!!

DON'T ever, ever blast out at others when you're feeling miserable.

DO what's necessary in dealing with the issue and move on.

"...deliberately suppressing certain thoughts can make them come back stronger."

Alas, it is that time again where I must return to my duties. Farewell till we meet again!

Young Malaysia

I first came across RandomAlphabets in The Star. If I'm not mistaken, it was about the Read While Waiting Project (note: click on the link to watch the video). I was just so excited by the whole idea, Zain HD's name stuck on. Later, looked up all related videos and I was just so overwhelmed. KL Freeze in Unison was definitely one of my favourites.

Not long after, I attended the MSLS. Up came Zain HD and Kam Raslan (another notable figure I got to know on that day). It was rather amusing to watch them. One thing that they had in common (and so did most people in that room that day) was the spirit of a new Malaysia - A dream, a hope, a belief that things can turn around for the better.

The recent Tali Tenang project also caught my attention, with 250 people participating in the event. Then, I come across UNITED COLOURS of MALAYSIA -The 1+2 Campaign and Malaysian Youth Network (MYN) among others on Facebook. Not to mention the Malaysia4Unity Project which has its goals stretched out until the end of this year.

What can I say? I'M IMPRESSED!!

Awesome Week!

Monday

• Got a lift from my lecturer to get to college.
• Followed my friend to her mother's factory after joining them for lunch. Got to know a little bit about the plastic industry...had an interesting conversation with her mother...a different community...a different perspective.

Tuesday

• The Pre-U club in college organised a trip to the Magistrates Court with the help of our course coordinator and Law lecturer...an experience it was...
• Went to Jusco after...tried out 'loh shi fun' for the 1st time - shared 3 pots of tea and lots of laughter with friends
• Met a senior at MPH...we were there for almost an hour - a friend was showing me a book called 'Freakonomics' and this guy across looked at us and said 'Yes, it's a good book. Freakonomics is a good book'. I just looked back at my friend, thinking he may know him haha. We just quietly moved away from that area.
• Got back to college just in time for Maths at 6pm. Phew!
• Got in touch with a friend I hadn't heard from in a while - part of the MIA crew mission.
• Watched the latest episode of Merlin..awww such a touching episode.

Wednesday

• This girl I'd known in college since last year asked me what's my name!
• Sent in an important application...let's hope for the best!

Thursday

• A friend made spaghetti for lunch...delicious...we all agree that she is already qualified to be a housewife!
• Found out that I've got to do a debate on Abortion....supporting it! Well, this is going to be fun! We're the 1st group up, too.

Friday

• Attended a talk by a retired judge...at a club. Friend's mother drove. That's 2 mothers this week.
• Met an interesting Swiss guy who had settled in Malaysia for 17 years. We talked about being involved in the community, etc...learnt about Perak Academy.
• Had to dress up in formal attire for the talk...that was a 1st for my friends and I in college...it was an experience indeed.
• Watched Ghost Rider for the 100th time (didn't keep count :p)..love the last part where the both of them ride to San Vangenza!

Saturday

• Attended my secondary school's sports day ~memories~ wished some of u were there :S
• Met so many teachers and friends.
• Watched Ghost Rider and Merlin...again!
• Discovered Ipohworld's World - interesting stuff. Ipoh Echo - dose of Ipoh news.
• Going to continue with some work now. Listening to Lite.fm...sweet :)

Break is starting soon. Hoping to meet up with some friends. Get some work done - exams are drawing near. Maybe go on a short break. Have more fun. Gain more experiences. Let's see where the road ahead lies. Moving forward!!

LIFEBOOK 2010

WAS HAVING ONE OF THOSE 'DOWN IN THE DUMPS' MOMENT WHEN I CAME ACROSS THIS EMAIL THAT GOT ME LOOKING UP AGAIN!! THANKS MATHURI AKKA FOR FORWARDING IT TO ME. LOVED IT :)

Health:

1. Drink plenty of water
2. Eat breakfast like a king, lunch like a prince and dinner like a beggar
3. Eat more foods that grow on trees and plants, and eat less food that is manufactured in plants
4. Live with the 3 E's -- Energy, Enthusiasm, and Empathy
5. Make time for prayer
6. Play more games
7. Read more books than you did in 2009
8. Sit in silence for at least 10 minutes each day
9. Sleep for 7 hours
10. Take a 10-30 minutes walk every day ---- and while you walk, smile


Personality:

11. Don't compare your life to others'. You have no idea what their journey is all about.
12. Don't have negative thoughts or things you cannot control. Instead invest your energy in the positive present moment.
13. Don't over do ; keep your limits
14. Don't take yourself so seriously ; no one else does
15. Don't waste your precious energy on gossip
16. Dream more while you are awake
17. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.
18. Forget issues of the past. Don't remind your partner with his/her mistakes of the past. That will ruin your present happiness.
19. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone. Don't hate others.
20. Make peace with your past so it won't spoil the present
21. No one is in charge of your happiness except you
22. Realize that life is a school and you are here to learn. Problems are simply part of the curriculum that appear and fade away like algebra class but the lessons you learn will last a lifetime.
23. Smile and laugh more
24. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.

Community:

25. Call your family often
26. Each day give something good to others
27. Forgive everyone for everything
28. Spend time with people over the age of 70 & under the age of 6
29. Try to make at least three people smile each day
30. What other people think of you is none of your business
31. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your family and friends will. Stay in touch.

Life:

32. Do the right things
33. Get rid of anything that isn't useful, beautiful or joyful
34. GOD heals everything
35. However good or bad a situation is, it will change
36. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up
37. The best is yet to come
38. When you awake alive in the morning, thank GOD for it
39. Your Inner most is always happy. So, be happy.

Last but not the least :

40. Do forward this to everyone you care about.

Looking Back Before Moving Forward!

I'm all emotional now...thinking back of all the memories 2009 had to offer. Let's see:

1. I started college.

2. Joined Facebook - something I would have never done a year before.

3. Started blogging.

4. And blog-hopping.

5. Joined dance classes for a month or so - missed dancing.

6. Got in touch with some of my primary school friends.

7. Kept in touch with many of my secondary school friends.

8. Attended a summit that changed my perspective forever.

9. Met many interesting people.

10. Ambitious young people, too.

11. Got closer with some of my family members.

12. Witnessed changes in my extended family.

13. Explored my interests.

14. Learnt to love more.

15. Empathize more.

16. Look at things positively.

17. Learnt that you only get hurt when you allow it.

18. Learnt to address issues that would not compromise my character.

19. Wrote a letter to a complete stranger.

20. Made many new friends.

21. Had surprise visits from my old friends.

22. Planned a school reunion.

23. Started a few projects of my own.

24. Tied my own saree for the first time (with help of course).

25. Got myself a new haircut.

26. Have become ever more grateful for all the people around me.

27. Was part of a major family project.

28. Met some of my cousins and relatives for the very first time.

29. Cherishing some of my closest friends even more.

30. Loving and respecting my parents and siblings even more.

31. Had emotional confusions every now and then.

32. Met friends who I've not seen in years.

33. Few sad moments : departures, deaths, tragedies.

34. Had an interesting experience ;)

35. First time acting experience - The Big Black Box!

36. Went for the most shows, movies, get-togethers, parties, holidays ever.

37. Became hooked to a few TV programs.

38. Started driving.

39. Became more appreciative.

40. Am a happier person.