As Time Goes By

Say cheese

2008-07-14T23:05:00.002+08:00

Arghhhhh

my post got deleted by some computer error.

Was writing that my beloved Nikon S4 died on me....so no pictures from Cambodia trip.

Hence, am not willing to have no pictures from Tokyo trip.

Have until Thursday to decide and make up mind...

Recommendations welcome.

Tokyo here I come...... =)

2008-07-14T22:59:00.002+08:00

All thoughts of austerity drive go out of the window when you faced with a good travel deal. Your mind just instinctively say yes, and before you know it, the date of the trip looms near since it is a last minute getaway.

So, Tokyo, here I come. =)

I was of course hoping the trip could be much later in the year when it will be nice and cooling. Despite being more tolerant towards heat than cold, I am starting to love the cold weather in other countries. There is something very comforting about being nice, warm and full when the weather is cold, plus it makes it easier to enter lalaland.

Also, am not too sure after Cambodia in the high heat of April, the body would not scream in protest when faced with the Tokyo summer in July.

Nevertheless, a holiday is a holiday.

If things turn out well, there might be another trip at the end of the year...
Que sera sera

Excited! =) =) =)

Watching SATC

2008-06-01T22:13:00.004+08:00

Sex and The City (STAC) is not just one of the latest summer blockbuster offerings. STAC is one of those movies where you have to be selective about who you watch it with. At least for me.

It seems apt that for a movie about girlfriends, heartbreaks, and wanton material consumerism, you should be a movie snob and choose only the right companions. At least for me.

So when a colleague asked me if I wanted to join them in catching this, I politely declined. It just wasnt right. At least for me.

That would have been treason of the highest order.

SATC is a movie that you catch with a group of your girlfriends, who have seen you through last minute exam mugging, heartbreaks, first time clubbing, first time behind the wheel, first job interviews, first jobs, first scoldings from the boss, first pay increases, first promotions, first major retail therapy with your own money, first holidays and the like.

And it could only be with the girl friends. As what a local credit card tagline goes, the men dont get it. (yes this includes gay friends)

Only then, would it be a befitting tribute to the tv series.

Which Movie Superhero are you?

2008-03-17T23:49:00.000+08:00

You're Wolverine from the X-Men movies
Sometimes your rebellious attitude makes people nervous, but maybe that's a good thing when you're battling bad guys. Some superheroes smile and show their muscles as they rescue people, but you're more likely to growl and show your claws. You'd rather make your own rules than take orders from someone else. Like Wolverine, you probably have excellent reflexes and heightened senses, so you're always aware of what's happening around you. Even if you come across as a loner, your friends know they can count on you in a crisis.

What Time of Day are you?

2008-03-17T23:42:00.001+08:00

You are 3:15 p.m.
You are the moment when the last bell rings and school lets out for the day. You are resistant to schedules and obligations, so you love feeling like you're in control of your life again. You are the very moment when the second hand hits the 12, and the halls fill with noise and motion. Even if your after-school time is packed with activities, lessons, or a job, somehow, you just feel freer in the late afternoon than you do earlier in the day. Maybe it's all that blue sky and afternoon sunshine? Nah -- even on rainy days, 3:15 is always a beautiful time.

Catch 22

2007-09-30T22:06:00.000+08:00

It has been a while since the last post.

The long pause was due to a massive bout of food poisoning that knocked me out a few months, a busy schedule and most importantly a hesistance in penning down what I want to say.

This blog was first started about 2 years ago. I wrote posts which talked about many frivolous things. The truth was that they were there, despite the frills, to serve as a reminder to the author or as lamp post in the road of life. To others, it really did not mean much.

Then, it was comfortable to give the web address to friends who knew me personally, with whom I had gone to school together and seen me through quite a few hysterial bouts.

After some time, one grows and matures as a blog writer and such frivolous pursuits hold little meaning. There were many incidents and many posts which I wanted to write. Posts which I composed in my head on the train. Posts which never saw daylight.

But I restrained myself for fear of upsetting the very people I know. Then for the first time, I understood why some blogs are deleted by their authors to start afresh somewhere after some time. The time frame for such blog harakiri is about 2 years, longer if one doesnt post frequently.

All thanks to tracker, I realised that some of my friends do pop by once in awhile for updates even if they leave no comments.

The easiest way out would be to delete this blog, set up a new one somewhere else. However, this would be an ill repayment to the very friends who have stood by me all these years. Loyalty is something I value in friendships.

Perhaps one day I will find a way around this.

A short note...

2007-05-12T01:37:00.000+08:00

Hi dears,

I apologise for not posting for quite awhile. Life has been wonderfully busy.

My holiday resume since 2007 started reads : Hong Kong, Macau, Cruise to Malacca/Klang and Ho Chih Minh City. 2007 is also the first time I've been to a Communist country...though when May is over, Communist country will become Communist countries. =)

In a few hours time, I will fly the friendly skies on almost back to back trips to Guangzhou and Perth. Will touch down again on 26 MAY 07.

Will see if I can find time to post, though the chances are not high as the lap top is staying in Singapore.

Some unknown viral disease is killing off oink oinks in Guangdong province. Have resolved to stay off porkie and perhaps with some kind blessings from above, will return in one piece, preferably happy and alive.

Till then, adieu... =)

Shell Challenge - part 2

2006-10-09T22:00:00.000+08:00

Interestingly, TNP did a short article on the challenge in Saturday's edition. I realised that one reason why TNP is probably considered a tabloid paper could be due to the less than stringent factual accuracy. Because if the grand winner travelled 160 km on 0.88 l of petrol, he would have clocked a fuel consumption of 183 km/l. On the contrary, the article gave the impression that fuel consumption was 160 km/l.

On top of what was written, here's a sneak preview for you guys on what also happened, that was not reported.

- Shell took forever to release the results...it was almost 1600 hrs. Theoretically, teams that finished after 1430 hrs were disqualified. Results were expected to be announced before 1600 hrs. Since computing the mileague did not require rocket scientists or PHD holders to do, obviously something must have happened to cause the delay.

- Back tracking on their earlier statements that teams could keep their passports as momentos, Shell staff went round collecting the passports after more than half the teams had checked in.

- Before the results were announced, Shell GM Elise Sim gave a short speech, which also included bits on how the results do not matter, the judges' decision was final, everyone was a winner.

- When he was given the results to announce, the MC Hossan Leong actually went down stage to clarify certain matters.

- After Hossan Leong announced that the Grand Prize winner travelled a total of 160 km on 0.88 l, an elderly Malay uncle said very loudly in an incredulous tone "0.88 l?". To which Hossan Leong replied that yes indeed, it was 0.88 l. You could hear a lot of whisperings and rumblings across the function hall.

- The look on the Taylors' faces as they gave out the prizes to the winners and grand winner was priceless. It made me rue my decision not to bring my Nikon S4 with me. =)

Shell Fuel Economy Challenge

2006-10-01T20:14:00.000+08:00

The Shell Fuel Economy Challenge burnt my Children's Day weekend. Which was in its own unique way, a pretty fun option to burn a weekend. Basically the challenge was a car rally with the ultimate aim of trying to get as much km as you can out of every litre of petrol.

Briefing
There was a briefing for all participants at Raffles Marina the day before (30 September 2006). A new fuel was introduced to the crowd as being the fuel that was responsible for John and Helen Taylor's Guiness World Record Round the World Drive feat of 24 tanks refill. The Australian couple were also present to give out tips on economical driving. You marvel at how two people with some of the most ordinary names in the English language could achieve something so remarkable. Yes yes, one's names has no direct impact on how much one can achieve in life. However, compare John Taylor to say Christopher Columbus...or Marco Polo..or Cheng Ho...

For some obscure reason, Shell choose to air a video clip on the development of the new fuel. An act that was generally wasted on a crowd unable to appreciate the technicalities. A group of engineers would perhaps have been sent to orgasmic heaven rather than lulled to slumber.

Race Day
Pre-flag off
Be prepared to wake up EARLY. Contestants were divided into 2 teams - yellow and red. Each colour had its own route. That is to say one team went clockwise, and the other anti-clockwise. Teams had to go for a tank fill at the Shell station along Jalan Ahmad Ibrahim at the freaking early hour of 8 in the morning before proceeding to Raffles Marina. Thankfully breakfast was provided. There was a pre-race brief (yes, another one) before teams could proceed to the registration booths to claim their first clue. At each pitstop, teams would be provided with a clue leading to the destination of the next stop. There were 8 stops in total, where teams would have their Shell passports stamped.

1st pitstop - Shell station at Upper Bukit Timah Road
My route was the yellow route, so my first pitstop was the Shell petrol station along Upper Bukit Timah. It's the one near Gombak Drive and Cashew Road, NOT the Shell stations near the Bukit Timah stretch where Lana cake is. Strangely, the cheery and friendly Shell staff were obviously unprepared to handle the number of cars that drove up. So unprepared that the staff at the pitstop itself were still discussing who should stamp the passport and who should give out the clues when I drove up. Flustered, they even told me to go off BEFORE issuing me my next clue. =p

2nd pitstop - Singapore Zoological Gardens
Teams were issued with a set of questions and a zoo pass. The answers could be found in the Australian Outback section of the zoo. Upon completion of the task, teams will be given their next clue. I havent stepped into the Zoo since Primary School days. And it has CHANGED a lot since then. I dont mind spending the new few weekends exploring it. Anyways, while on the way out, one uncle spotted the lot of us running madly and wished us good luck. (so sweet... =D) We heard him muttering to his companions, 'Shell Petrol Challenge'.

3rd pitstop - Shell station at Mandai Road
Nothing eventful other than having to drive in and getting the passport stamped. They say you learn something new everyday. I learned that there was a Shell station at this ulu stretch of the Singapore. =)

4th pitstop - Shell station at Upper Changi Road
This pitstop is along the same side of the road as Jalan Tiga Ratus.

5th pitstop - Golden Mile Building
This was a killer that made you wish for a fast forward option. Again, teams were issued with a set of questions which they had to answer. The difficult part was having to decipher the Thai words. Upon completion of the questions, teams will receive the clue to their next destination.

6th pitstop - Shell station at Havelock Road

The usual drive in, get passport stamped, drive off after waving madly at everyone present.

7th pitstop - Singapore Discovery Centre
Definitely the most fun part. If you survive the long walk to the heart of the Centre without looking like a bunch of country mice. I havent been to the Discovery Centre since well, Primary School days I think. You get to shoot at a bunch of balloons, from a manly distance of say err 7, 10, 12 metres (Am not a good judge of distance...walking from Wisma to CentrePoint is near, walking from my desk to cabinet in cubicle is far...Distance can be relative ala Theory of Relativity). The highlight of it is you get the shoot at the balloons using a M-16 mock gun. Cool! I loved loved loved it.

8th and final pitstop - Back to Shell station at Jalan Ahmad Ibrahim
Back to Shell station at Jalan Ahmad Ibrahim to refill tank, calculate mileague etc. Teams then head towards Raffles Marina to check in for fun, food and AIRCON. Last team to check in WILL NOT be eliminated. You also hand in your Shell passport for checking there.

Useful points to note:

1. Shell has been organising this challenge since 2003. Funnily, the staff on hand seemed confused and misled teams on where they could claim their first clue. This confusion was replicated along the whole race, so for future teams, if you are sure about your instructions, proceed with your instincts. Sometimes the herd is wrong.

2. Always read instructions carefully. For the tasks at the Zoo and Golden Mile Building, one only had to get 4 questions correct, so you could actually save time by skipping questions like how many kangeroos were there and having to count the kangeroos. Not very difficult to count kangeroos. The difficult part is that the kangeroos can jump!

3. Ask when unsure...it saves you loads of time. The police are really useful for this. (good to note for future car rallies)

4. The difficult clues are not really that difficult. On a scale of 1 - 10, with 10 being the most difficult Sudoku problem, it is 1. Even -2.

5. Check out the location of all Shell stations before hand. Focus on locations off the beaten track.

6. Ask yourself why are you taking part in the challenge. If you really wish to test how far per litre of fuel can take you, take it seriously. Empty your car of all excess baggage...this includes car mats and all useless barang in the glove compartment. While on the race, watch your rev and do not ever ever turn on the aircon, radio. Neither should you wind down the windows (wind drag). When this happens, it gets hot in the car. Be prepared for it. Bring a paper fan.

7. If you just wish to enjoy the car rally, then turn on your aircon/radio and leave your car as it is. There is no need to suffer the humidity and heat of sunny Singapore if you dont have to.

8. There is sufficient time to complete all the tasks and ALWAYS hold on to your Shell Passport. This means there is no need to run at the stops. However, it would be wise to have just one person in charge of holding on to the passport. Amidst all the envelopes, paper and heat, losing that small booklet is HIGHLY possible.

9. Wear comfortable shoes. It is not wise, nor recommended to wear 3' boots and run; even if it looks cool to wear 3' boots. Your feet, calves, ankles, shins protest loudly. The consequences are still felt many days later.

10. There is really no need to crawl on the road. You can get a ticket for going too slowly. My colleague was bemoaning how he got stuck on an expressway behind a car plastered with Shell Fuel Economy Challenge stickers, travelling at 60km/h.

I had great fun..and many lovely memories. Aloof Singaporeans who never so much smile at you at traffic lights, would wave happily to fellow contestants like long lost friends when they pass you on the road. The more helpful ones tell you where the pitstops are located. Some loan you their pens to write down your answers.

It was obvious that a lot of effort had gone into this and it was also obvious that contestants appreciate the effort. While it was not German clockwork perfect, the friendliness of the Shell staff was heart warming.

Shell even had a category for their staff, and the prizes were nothing to sniff at. The winner of the Shell Staff category clocked 25km per litre of petrol, which was pretty amazing.

Then Shell undid everything when they announced the results of the open category. They made a mockery of their own challenge and insulted all participants by allowing the results to stand. The grand prize winner clocked an astonishing and unbelievable 183 km per litre of petrol. For cars under 2 litres, the top three winners managed more than 80 km per litre of petrol. There were angry rumblings amongst the participants. Shell even emailed a letter to all participants the next day trying to pacify teams. But to me, the damage was done. It was a public relations disaster.

Now we know that there are at least 4 teams in Singapore who would be able to break the galatic record for fuel economy. =P

5th Most Competitive Economy

2006-09-27T20:30:00.000+08:00

*cheers*

*clap*

We're the 5th most competitive economy!

I wonder if this will translate into 5th most competitive bonus.......

Have converted my blogger into beta blogger...which must have been a crazy thing to do. Everything looks so different. Even the sign-in.

Phew

NGOs 1 Singapore 0

2006-09-16T21:17:00.000+08:00

The NGOs of the IMF/World Bank Meet in Singapore achieved what the American and Australian Governments could not do. In a rare reversal of its earlier stance, Singapore agreed to allow 22 of the 27 black listed NGO members into the country.

Which makes you wonder which pea-brained scholar was behind this.

There were 2 options which were open to us on the NGOs issue. Either we do a Germany World Cup 2006 and welcome everyone with open arms, or we choose the option more characteristic of Singapore and ban everyone. Once a decision was made, sticking to it was the easy part.

If we had chosen option Germany World Cup 2006, and we do allow them to protest here, (without imposing a million and one restrictions), and they put one toe out of line, then no one in the world would have blamed us if we had deported the whole bloody lot afterwards.

As for option Typical Singapore, if we banned the whole lot, and they move to Batam to sound war drums etc, and they put one toe out of line there, then no one in the world would have blamed us for banning the whole lot.

Given the massive number of NGO members, the odds of them putting even a fingernail out of line is extremely good.

But what did we do? We flip and we flop and we made a u-turn. So first we get flack for not allowing freedom of speech etc, then now we get flack for not giving NGOs enough time to prepare for the trip here. At the same time, now that the NGOs are united in slinging mud at us, what are the odds of them creating trouble in Batam?

For all the money, effort and 4 billion smiles we've put into this, what kind of press coverage in the world news have we gotten? Not about our beautiful country or the hospitality, for news coverage has been centred on the NGOs issue.

For this, NGOs 1 Singapore 0.

That pea-brained scholar who got us into this mess ought to be shot. Sometimes common sense is not so common after all.

Singapore 2006 - IMF/World Bank Meet

2006-09-13T21:22:00.000+08:00

This is getting ridiculous!

It's one thing to deny protestors, who probably will not achieve anything constructive other than make a lot of noise, entry into the country. It's another to make your tax-paying citizens suffer so much inconvenience for a bunch of over-paid bureaucrats who probably have never been to this country before and never will, if it is not sponsored and they are not lavished with goodie bags.

I went to buy mooncakes today, and had my bags searched TWICE. The last straw came when they wanted to search my mooncake boxes. Then you realise that being a woman has its advantages.

The policeman who barked out the order looked like a pretty high ranked officer, given the number of pins and accessories on his uniform. Plus, he was in charge of giving out orders, while others did the work.

So it was with great satisfaction, to see him glower and simmer silently when I dished out my empty airhead/spoilt brat behaviour, all the while prattling off in a high pitch tone on what a waste of manpower/tax payer's money this was, and how I didnt see why there was a need to search through my mooncakes.

Cheap thrill I know, but it was a mastercard moment, when out of the corner of my eye, I saw his subordinate suppress a smirk. But honestly, if I could get that near to Westin Swissotel, it was enough to detonate whatever bomb I could be hiding underneath my clothes, ala jihad suicide bomber style.

The lobby of Westin Swissotel looked as though a Police Convention had just ended, with police officerSSSSS loittering around not doing anything construtive. Security reasons, is a line that has been bantered about too often and loosely that it is starting to grate on the ears.

If next year my tax bill goes up, I will know the reason why.

UOB Visa Signature Card

2006-09-12T20:54:00.000+08:00

The latest credit card to hit town, with sufficient wow factor, is the UOB Visa Signature Card.

It seems that UOB is Visa's preferred bank in Singapore for launching new cards. Remember that very cutsy Visa mini, which was small enough to sling on your key chain? And if I'm not wrong, but I stand corrected, UOB was the bank that first launched the Visa Platinum card.

The concept behind the travel card is a fantastic one. I mean who can say no to complimentary upgrades to business class travel, discounts at premium hotels, dining priviledges at restaurants worldwide and even having to spend less on the card (as compared to other credit/travel cards) to qualify for the travel perks.

Until of course when you try to use the card and find yourself coming down to earth with an almighty thump. This is provided you were one of those lucky enough to be issued your card early, without having to hear the standard reply that due to overwhelming response at the card launch, processing may take a little while longer. Even as you politely thank the customer service officer, you find yourself wondering why did UOB not deploy more manpower to the processing department to deal with the surge. Perhaps sometimes, even the much vaunted private sector does have its off days.

Anyway, back to gravity, coming back to earth and the realities of trying to use the card. Then you realise as with all other travel packages, the special packages offered by the card is very much tied to the period in which you are travelling. That is, the charges are much higher during peak periods and lower during off peak. Surprisingly, you are not allowed to book travel packages for non-card members if the cardholder is not part of the travelling group. Yes, this applies even to your family members.

And some dates are black out dates, like for example, 'the date you wish to return is a blackout date', the travel planner helpfully informed me. As I did not have an alternative return date, I left without booking my holiday. After I waited at UOB Travel Planners at a queue that did not move for more than 30 minutes!!!

Which made me think how different are the packages offered by this credit card that makes it very different from the tour packages that you can select from Natas/Chan Brothers/SA travel fairs? At least at such travel fairs, consumers can pay for packages using any credit card they fancy, and/or buy packages for family members even if they are not travelling in the group. Failing which, there is the DIY travel package option where consumers book everything via internet and are not subjected to blackout dates. I subsequently booked my tickets online at SIA's website, for the precise same dates that UOB Travel Planners could not issue.

Perhaps I have expectations of a travel card that this card is unable to fulfil. Or perhaps the card was launched a tad too hastily, without having all the concepts thought through. Launching a travel card without any permanent travel benefit differentiating it is shooting yourself in the foot; since even complimentary business travel upgrade is a promotion that ends in October. Having so many terms and conditions attached does not endear the card to its holder either, especially since one has to fork out good money in the process too.

At dinner earlier, the Visa Signature advertisement came on. I spluttered with indignation at the "no black out dates" portion. But you have to give it to them for coming out with such a brilliant tagline - Where will your signature take you?

For me, it's taking me to Hong Kong in October, with my trusty DBS card.

Manga Fantasies

2006-07-30T16:55:00.000+08:00

A mother of 2 once said to me that every girl should know the story of Cinderella. I came from a primary school that believes every girl must watch the Ms Universe pageant at least once. I guess the rationale behind was the same. Evening gowns, coiffed hair and diamond tiaras are probably the cloest things that modernity has to princesses and fairy tales.

I still remember that we skipped maths, chinese and god knows what other lessons there were left in the school timetable to see Ms Chile crowned. As I grew up, I had less patience with such frivolities. But there was always a soft spot for this show.

If you have been following the papers, you would have read about how many have ridiculed Ms Singapore's choice of an evening gown. *shrugs* I wonder why people bother anyway, since we have no fighting chance in the competition. Much as we delude ourselves, we are neither as pretty, tall, graceful as the Chinese in China, the Indians in India, and the Malays in Malaysia. And of course, to be politically correct, the natives of the various lands of the various ethnic group that make up Singapore. Let her wear what she wants and have a good time.

What really surprised me this year was Japan's win for the best national costume. I think all these years, Ms Japan has always showcased the kimono for the national costume competition. To do otherwise, would be unthinkable. So my jaw dropped when I saw Ms Japan come onstage in a hot red ninja outfit complete with samurai sword and killer heels. If looks could kill, I saw many young male fans of manga as victims.

Now THAT is what I call taking a risk and pushing the borders of fashion. Ultimately, she looked like a million billion zillion bucks and not fodder for pantry gossip the next day. There is more to Japan than elaborately emboidered kimonos. Given her height and unJapanese looks, she would look totally ridiculous if she tried the submissive Japanese woman in kimono image. In that red ninja outfit, I could just picture her in a James Bond movie - as Kissy Suzuki in You Only Live Twice. ;)

Lady Luck

2006-07-18T10:10:00.000+08:00

A final post on my dodo dad's lucky streak during this WC.

We were discussing what the outcome would be at full time. So I asked how much he bought.

Dad went to rummage through his pocket and finally found his betting slip. Then I heard him go 'oh'. Curious, I enquired why. Turned out that instead of buying an Italy win at full time, he ticked the wrong box and bought a draw. I collaspe in giggles on the sofa, claiming famous last words that it will never be a draw and Italy will most likely win. My dad glared at me, as I rolled around laughing and wondered out loud if he should buy another ticket. In the end, he didnt.

So if you know the scoreline, you will know who had the last laugh.

Phuket

2006-07-14T10:07:00.000+08:00

I'm typing this from my Phuket hotel room. And I'll be here till this Sunday.

The hotel is really lovely but more of 'live' from Phuket blog entries later.

Am off to check out the rainshower in the bathroom. Woke up at 4 am this morning to catch the 7 am flight. Zzzzzzzzzzzz

Lovely holidays...... =)

Stupid Reasons Why England Lost

2006-07-02T13:32:00.000+08:00

If you were watching last night's encounter between England and Portugal, you would have been wishing you were a wizard and can use one of the unforgivable curses. Unless of course, you were rooting for Portugal.

I pulled my hair and prayed for divine intervention, bit my nails and looked down in desperation. But alas, the English went out due to......

1. Stupid referee

Which coffeeshop you got your referee license from I do not know. Rooney certainly did not deserved to be red-carded. Yellow definitely. But RED?! Which part of what he did looked like he deserved a red card?! The push, or the look of contempt on his face for you? To further compound your mistake, you did not award England with a penalty in extra time when Lenon was brought down. It was a legitimate penalty yet you waved play on.

2. Stupid coach

Look at the formation he played England in - 1 striker up front. Dont you wish you could have hex him with a few jinxes? How to win with 1 striker? He had to bring Peter Crouch for Wayne Rooney, who wasted oxygen just by being on the field. He was totally INEFFECTIVE. So from one striker up front, England was virtually playing with 1/4 of a striker. And my grandmother can tell you that this will not win you matches. In extra-time, he was placidly watching the match in a state of zen. Compare him to Steve McLaren who was gesturing wildly, drawing on the board and frantically thinking of desperate moves.

3. Stupid Carragher, Gerrard and Lampard

For missing their penalty kicks. More so for Carragher who was brought on just for the penalty kicks. They should be made to pay for their own tickets back home.

If only the rest of the team played like Owen Hargreaves .....

And I am looking forward to see the reception Ronaldo will get when EPL season starts. While it is obvious that the man loves Portugal, he appears to have forgotten that his paymasters are English.

Do Do Bird

2006-06-29T21:22:00.000+08:00

There are no soccer matches tonight.

Highly irritated. This is one of the symptons of cold turkey. Am relying on strong doses of chocolate to stay alive and human. It is strange how the female species can throng Orchard Road for retail bargains. Madness, when they could have been lounging at home in state of zen.

Since I am free, I shall blog on one memorable experience that happened during the World Cup. It is the sort where if I am ever confronted with it in real life, I shall act confused and shake head profusely. So friends, you have been warned.

The silliest thing I did during this World Cup happened during one night at 3 am. Usually, all I need to do is turn on the tv because the soccer channel is normally the one last tuned in to.

Unfortunately, this time my dad was feeling intelligent and decided to watch the news on Channelnewsasia prior going to bed. No sweat, the brilliant me could always switch things back to the channel where the REAL action was.

Yes, soccer action at last. Jeez, Starhub's new soccer coverage isnt too bad. This must be the helicopter vision that my staff appraisal report talks about. The kind where bosses are said to have and which I dont.

After 15 mins, you start to think that Starhub is taking things too far. There is only so much entertainment in watching 22 stick figures running around the pitch. Hey, even the World Cup soccer game in Xbox is tonnes more interesting. You sulk because you cannot view the corner and free kicks properly. In fact, you cannot even see the soccer ball at all!

After another 5 mins of this, you have had enough. You reach for the phone and dial the 24 hr customer service. Mentally, you are rehearsing what you intend to say. All of them along the lines of if Starhub thinks they can get away with this new age helicopter vision screening of matches, they can jolly well think again, scoundels and unacceptable.

While waiting for the line to go through, you decide to check out the other soccer channel and see if things are the same at the other end. Who knows, maybe someone was trying to cut cost and reduce the number of cameras on the pitch just because there were 2 matches going on at the same time. The boys' scout's motto is to be prepared, or something along those lines. Much better to rant about 2 channels than 1. Make you sound like you have done your checks.

Then your mouth drops. The coverage on Channel 22 is perfectly normal. You realise that something could be wrong. Wisely, you click the call disconnect button on the phone. Then you flip to Channel 27 and see all things are fine. You frown a little and change channels to 28. Once again, there is the familiar helicopter coverage.

Enlightenment dawns.

Referee woes

2006-06-27T23:54:00.000+08:00

It is now the half time break in the Brazil-Ghana match. Brazil is leading 2-0, a scoreline they thoroughly deserved and do not deserved.

I concede that man for man, the Brazilians are technically superior to the Ghanians. They can outplay Ghana just by simply stepping up a gear.

However, it is obvious that Ghana is playing with a lot of heart, spirit and fire. After having to endure boring matches that end in goaless draws, uninspiring matches decided by one free kick, and matches that resembled WWII, this is a refreshing change. This is what free flowing football is about. This keeps you glued to your seat. You can just sit back, drink beer, smile contentedly and watch football at its best. It is matches like these where I do not begrudge Starhub the extra charges for being able to watch every single WC match.

But referees who appear to have left their eye prescriptions/glasses at home ruin everything. How can the linesman not see that Brazil were obviously offside? Not once, not twice, but numerous times. Maybe he was unable to keep up with the pace of the game. If you cannot match the fitness level of young soccer players, allow me to suggest that you either retire or go train yourself.

The referee has also appeared to miss the fouls on Ghana by Brazil. Blatent fouls mind you. The kind that have me jumping out of my chair, hand in the air, screaming for blood, mainly Brazil's. On some occassions I want to hurl the remote control at the referee. I wonder if he is aware that there are 2 teams playing on the field, and he is the objective man in the middle.

For all the football playing males in Brazil, they have to bring a fat man who is past his prime, cannot run fast any more and can only shoot goals at open goal posts. Like as though Brazil is starved of talent and players. It is such a pathetic, sorry and pitiful sight on the field. The Ronaldo I remember could do wonders with his feet and creates magic for all. Now, I see another Ronaldo, the one who huffs, pants, and waits for others to create magic for him. It is sad to have to remember a great player this way.

But back to incompetent referees. The match is starting again. If only viewers could dish referees yellow cards. Or if there was some kind of feedback/rating for referees like the feedback system we have in school for lecturers.

Bleah!

The Luck of a Gambler

2006-06-27T11:20:00.000+08:00

Is something which I do not have. *mock sigh*

My father can do dodo things like go buy the wrong odds, ie buy for England to give handicap when in actual fact he wants the other team to receive handicap. Then just for that one match, England won 2-0. In fact, it was the only match where England won 2- 0. (England vs Trinidad and Tobago) *disgusted snort*

Or else, he forgets to place his stakes because he had another appointment, and the team he wanted to bet on loses/draw. Something which happens to me, only in the reverse. The matches I forget to bet in, the team I want to stake on wins.

*another disgusted snort*

So we both betted in the Australia Italy game. I went for a draw and Aussie win.After all, fortune favours the bold, or so I thought. My dad plonked money down for the Aussies to receive a handicap. Would you like to guess what happened?

The Aussies conceded a penalty in the dying SECONDS of the game. And of course, just for that one penalty, Italy with its terrible record for penalties, converted it. Bah to Totti!

My dad commented after the final whistle that perhaps Australia might have drawn the game had I not dabbled my non-gambling fingers into the pie. With a big smirk on his face!

And you know what? My dad helped me fill in my Singapore Pools betting slip. In his classic dodo-ness, he marked out an Italy win and draw instead of an Aussie win and draw. As luck will have it, I looked through the slips. And amended his mistake!!!!!!!

Later, he was under the impression that he did not place any stakes for the Switzerland-Ukraine match. Upon checking, he realised he did but forgot about it. And of course, he won again.

Bloody unfair!!!!!

South Korea is out.......

2006-06-24T22:03:00.000+08:00

Am devastated. How can the Koreans be out?!?!?! *sob sob sob*

This means that the closest thing Asians have to represent them in World Cup is AUSTRALIA, the country more popular for kangeroos than soccer, where prior to this WC, never qualified for one before.

Where were the heroics of Japan and Korea as seen in 2002?!?!?!

It's been a hot day today. Went to the new Tiong Bahru Market. Lots to blog about, which I shall do so only tomorrow, for the precise reason that it has been HOT, freaking HOT.

Underdogs....

2006-06-23T21:52:00.000+08:00

Yeah.... Australia is into the second round of the World Cup, and so is Ghana.

I love it when underdogs qualify!! =) =) =)

You can see the joy in the faces of the fans and players while everyone celebrates. The hug hug, kiss kiss, run around amok, pray to heaven, beat drums kind of celebrations. Leaves you with nice warm fuzzy feelings, the kind you get when an exercise released nice endorphins into your body.

I hope hope hope South Korea can fly the Asian flag high and qualify for the next round.

A friend I know refuses to support England (because they were our former colonial masters) and Japan (because they never apologised for WWII).

I am happy because I went blading today and there are many nice happy endorphins coursing through my body now. *grin* Just returned from dinner at Macs and realised that yours truly have been living in the jurassic ages.

Did you know that Mac also screens WC matches?!?!?......Yes, I see you nodding your head, disbelief all over your faces that someone could possibly not know this. Further confirmation of my citizenship in Jurassic Age.

Bought a nice pink lipstick after dinner. Retail therapy releases nice endorphins too... =) =) =)

Am buying quite a number of pink girly stuff...at least much more girl stuff than usual. Since I am in bimbo mood currently, I think I'll go all the way. I shall go paint my nails in England's colours to show my support. White background with a red cross is much easier than trying to paint Korea's colours.

My replies to your comments......

2006-06-23T21:45:00.000+08:00

Dear readers,

I apologise for not replying to the comments you have posted. Procrastination is a deadly sin with me. I promise not to do so in future, so do keep your comments coming. It is a great stress reliever to read what you have to say in response to my musings.

To:

Duck - It's your Xmassie pressie my dear.... (sheepish smile)

Kurakat - No prob if you want to host my Cars entry, if its not too overdue. No worries about the acknowledgments...really. As for the '8 days' entry, no I didnt rush it out. Was feeling a tad agitated when I wrote it. Did it sound rushed?

The Prof - YOU can SEW and COOK?!?!?!...... WOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The Hey Good Looker Test

2006-06-22T13:54:00.000+08:00

Kurakat has posted up pictures of the actresses in Da Chang Jin on his blog. I have no idea how he managed to find them, but you can see them as they look in Jewel in the Palace and in contemporary outfits.

Kurakat's blog is http://eldwinjoshuawong.blogspot.com/

Otherwise known as Reflections under the Full Speed To scroll bar.

It's worth a look. Some of them are really really pretty, like the actresses who played the villian Lady Cui, the goody two shoes Liansheng and sweetie pie Xin Fei.

The others look hideous in the period drama as compared to how they look like in real life. Looks like rebonded hair, make up and tonnes of photoshop do have their uses.

Period dramas are really harsh on actresses who were not born pretty of face. Partly because you will look fatter than normal due to the layers you need to wear and partly because all the drama mama hairdos, means the emphasis is on your FACE! Where because all the hair is swept back and tied into various drama mama hairstyles, the actress can not count on rebonded highlighted hair to help mask whatever flaws she has.

Hey, this could even be a good looker test to check out the natural good lookers from those who uses every single modern day comestic aid. It is fast, simple, and can be conducted anywhere and everywhere. Plus it's 100% accurate.

Women soccer fans wannabes

2006-06-22T00:53:00.000+08:00

Some of the stuff I've heard from female soccer fans wannabes (FSFW) in recent times....

FSFW: Which do you think is the best match to watch?
Me: You could try the Argentina vs The Netherlands match.

FSFW: The Netherlands is playing? I quite like the Dutch. Have been supporting them and hope Holland goes thru

*dwang*

FSFW: I'm painting my nails to show my support for England.
Male friend of mine: Ermmm, since when was England's colours blue?

*dwang*

Female soccer bimbos make my day.
Die, I will be reborn as a cockroach for my meaness..... 'cross fingers it does not happen'

=)