~A father's love for his son~

I happen to stumble upon this message and video in Neng's blog. He cried. And I cried even more. A very touching and inspiring one indeed...

No matter how cynical the world may turn out to be, this video shows otherwise...

Love rulez!

Neng's page:

This is a True Story!

Son asked his father, "Dad, would you be willing to run a marathon with me?" The father, despite his age and a heart disease, said YES. They ran that marathon together. The son asks, "Dad, can you run another marathon with me?", again the father said 'YES'.. They ran another marathon, together.

One day the son asked his father, "Dad, would you please do the Iron Man with me?" ( Now, just in case you don't know, 'The Iron Man' is the toughest triathlon in existence - 4km swimming, then 180 km by bike, and finally another 42 km running, all in one race. ) Again the father said 'YES'

Maybe this does not move you yet by heart ... but wait till you see the video. Its ok if you feel like crying for the courage, passion and love for the son.... You will add to the > 2.5 Million people who had seen this.... and Don't wait to see it another day, JUST DO IT NOW!

~Interesting ox attributes~

Courtesy of Wikipedia:
Disclaimer: Please read with skepticism. Source may not be entirely reliable.

People born within these date hellos can be said to have been born in the year of the Ox, while also bearing the following elemental sign:
19 February 1901 - 7 February 1902: Metal Ox
6 February 1913 - 25 January 1914: Water Ox
25 January 1925 - 12 February 1926: Wood Ox
11 February 1937 - 30 January 1938: Fire Ox
29 January 1949 - 16 February 1950: Earth Ox
15 February 1961 - 4 February 1962: Metal Ox
3 February 1973 - 22 January 1974: Water Ox
20 February 1985 - 8 February 1986: Wood Ox
7 February 1997 - 28 January 1998: Fire Ox
26 January 2009 - 14 February 2010: Earth Ox
2021 - 2022: Metal Ox
2033 - 2034: Water Ox

The Ox is thought to be the sign of prosperity through fortitude and hard work. The Ox is a power sign, like the Rat, Snake, Dragon, Tiger, and Monkey. They're quite dependable and possess an innate ability to achieve great things. As one might guess, such people are dependable, calm, and modest. Like their animal namesake, the Ox is unswervingly patient, tireless in their work, and capable of enduring any amount of hardship without complaint.

Ox people, according to tradition, need peace and to work through their ideas, and when they have set their mind on something it is hard for them to be convinced otherwise. An Ox person has a very logical mind and is extremely systematic in whatever they do, though they have a tremendous imagination and an unparalleled appreciation for beauty. These people speak little but are extremely intelligent. When necessary, they are articulate and eloquent.

Traditionally, people born under the influence of the Ox are thought to be kind, caring souls, logical, positive, filled with common sense and with their feet firmly planted on the ground. Security is their main preoccupation in life, and they are prepared to toil long and hard in order to provide a warm, comfortable and stable nest for themselves and their families. Strong-minded, stubborn, individualistic, the majority are highly intelligent individuals who don't take kindly to being told what to do.

The Ox, it is thought, works hard, patiently, and methodically, with original intelligence and reflective thought. These people enjoy helping others. Behind this tenacious, laboring, and self-sacrificing exterior lies an active mind.

The Ox, according to tradition, is not extravagant, and a modern interpretation of this is that the thought of living off credit cards or being in debt makes them nervous. The possibility of taking a serious risk could cause the Ox sleepless nights.

Ox people are truthful and sincere, and the idea of wheeling and dealing in a competitive world is distasteful to them. They are rarely driven by the prospect of financial gain. These people are always welcome in small gatherings because of their humble composure and reverent nature towards the host. They are reputed to be the most beautiful of face in the zodiac. They have many friends, who appreciate the fact that the Ox people are wary of new trends, although every now and then they can be encouraged to try something new. People born in the year of the Ox make wonderful parents and teachers of children.

It is important to remember that the Ox people are sociable and relaxed when they feel secure, but occasionally a dark cloud looms over such people and they engage all the trials of the whole world and seek solutions for them.

~The stories of the 12 animals in the Chinese calendar~

I always found it interesting how did the 12 animals come about and how they were arranged in that particular order. Why are there only 12 in the first place? Why did the rat come first and the ox second? How did the pig manage to squeeze in? Of course, the stories are all legends per say. The most common that I've heard is that the rat tricked the cat during the race, causing the cat to lose and from that onwards, the rat has been said to the the cat's sworn enemy. As far as I know, the ox was included because of its hardworking attributes whereelse the tiger and dragon, most likely their bravery and strength. As for the rest.... I don't really have much idea....

This is what I've got from Wikipedia:

The 12 Zodiac animal signs (生肖 shengxiao) are, in order, the rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, sheep (ram or goat), monkey, rooster, dog, and pig. There are many legends to explain the beginning of the zodiac. One of the most popular reads, in summarised form, as follows:

The rat was given the task of inviting the animals to report to the Jade Emperor for a banquet to be selected for the zodiac signs. The cat was a good friend of the rat, but the rat tricked him into believing that the banquet was the next day. The cat slept through the banquet, thinking that it was the next day. When he found out, the cat vowed to be the rat's natural enemy for ages to come.

Another popular legend has it that a race was used to decide the animals to report to the Jade Emperor:

The cat and the rat were the worst swimmers in the animal kingdom. Although bad swimmers, they were both intelligent. They decided that the best and fastest way to cross the river was to hop on the back of the ox. The ox, being a naïve and good-natured animal, agreed to carry them across. However, overcome with a fierce competitiveness, the rat decided that in order to win, it must do something and promptly pushed the cat into the river. Because of this, the cat has never forgiven the rat, and hates the water as well. After the ox had crossed the river, the rat jumped ahead and reached the shore first, and it claimed first place in the competition.

Following closely behind was the strong ox, and it was named the 2nd animal in the zodiac. After the ox, came the tiger, panting, while explaining to the Jade Emperor just how difficult it was to cross the river with the heavy currents pushing it downstream all the time. But with powerful strength, it made to shore and was named the 3rd animal in the cycle.

Suddenly, from a distance came a thumping sound, and the rabbit arrived. It explained how it crossed the river: by jumping from one stone to another in a nimble fashion. Halfway through, it almost lost the race but the rabbit was lucky enough to grab hold of a floating log that later washed him to shore. For that, it became the 4th animal in the zodiac cycle. Coming in 5th place was the dragon, flying. Of course, the Jade Emperor was deeply curious as to why a strong and flying creature such as the dragon should fail to reach first. The mighty dragon explained that he had to stop and make rain to help all the people and creatures of the earth, and therefore he was held back a little. Then, on his way to the finish line, he saw a little helpless rabbit clinging onto a log so he did a good deed and gave a puff of breath to the poor creature so that it could land on the shore. The Jade Emperor was very pleased with the actions of the dragon, and he was added into the zodiac cycle. As soon as he had done so, a galloping sound was heard, and the horse appeared. Hidden on the horse's hoof is the snake, whose sudden appearance gave the horse a fright, thus making it fall back and giving the snake the 6th spot, while the horse placed 7th.

Not long after that, a little distance away, the ram, monkey and rooster came to the shore. These three creatures helped each other to get to where they are. The rooster spotted a raft, and took the other two animals with it. Together, the ram and the monkey cleared the weeds, tugged and pulled and finally got the raft to the shore. Because of their combined efforts, the Emperor was very pleased and promptly named the ram as the 8th creature, the monkey as the 9th, and the rooster the 10th.

The 11th animal is the dog. His explanation for being late—although he was supposed to be the best swimmer amongst the rest—was that he needed a good bath after a long spell, and the fresh water from the river was too big a temptation. For that, he almost didn't make it to finish line. Just as the Jade Emperor was about to call it a day, an oink and squeal was heard from a little pig. The pig got hungry during the race, promptly stopped for a feast and then fell asleep. After the nap, the pig continued the race and was named the 12th and last animal of the zodiac cycle. The cat finished too late (thirteenth) to win any place in the calendar, and vowed to be the enemy of the rat forevermore.

In Buddhism, legend has it that Buddha summoned all of the animals of the earth to come before him before his departure from this earth, but only twelve animals actually came to bid him farewell. To reward the animals who came to him he named a year after each of them, the years were given to them in the order they had arrived.

Interesting indeed...

~恭喜发财, Happy Chinese New Year~

Wishing a very Happy Chinese 牛 Year to all.

祝福大家过个快乐的牛!

祝小的, 快高长大.

祝少的, 突飞猛进.

祝大的, 事事顺利.

祝长的, 身体健康.

恭喜恭喜!

还有... 可别忘了, 红包拿来!

~Obama's inaugural speech~

Barack Hussein Obama ~ The leader of tomorrow~

His inaugural speech (CNN copyright) :

(CNN) -- Barack Obama was sworn in as the 44th president of the United States and the nation's first African-American president Tuesday. This is a transcript of his prepared speech.

My fellow citizens:

I stand here today humbled by the task before us, grateful for the trust you have bestowed, mindful of the sacrifices borne by our ancestors. I thank President Bush for his service to our nation, as well as the generosity and cooperation he has shown throughout this transition.

Forty-four Americans have now taken the presidential oath. The words have been spoken during rising tides of prosperity and the still waters of peace. Yet, every so often, the oath is taken amidst gathering clouds and raging storms. At these moments, America has carried on not simply because of the skill or vision of those in high office, but because We the People have remained faithful to the ideals of our forebearers, and true to our founding documents.

So it has been. So it must be with this generation of Americans.

That we are in the midst of crisis is now well understood. Our nation is at war, against a far-reaching network of violence and hatred. Our economy is badly weakened, a consequence of greed and irresponsibility on the part of some, but also our collective failure to make hard choices and prepare the nation for a new age. Homes have been lost; jobs shed; businesses shuttered. Our health care is too costly; our schools fail too many; and each day brings further evidence that the ways we use energy strengthen our adversaries and threaten our planet.

These are the indicators of crisis, subject to data and statistics. Less measurable but no less profound is a sapping of confidence across our land -- a nagging fear that America's decline is inevitable, and that the next generation must lower its sights.

Today I say to you that the challenges we face are real. They are serious and they are many. They will not be met easily or in a short span of time. But know this, America: They will be met.

On this day, we gather because we have chosen hope over fear, unity of purpose over conflict and discord.

On this day, we come to proclaim an end to the petty grievances and false promises, the recriminations and worn-out dogmas, that for far too long have strangled our politics.

We remain a young nation, but in the words of Scripture, the time has come to set aside childish things. The time has come to reaffirm our enduring spirit; to choose our better history; to carry forward that precious gift, that noble idea, passed on from generation to generation: the God-given promise that all are equal, all are free, and all deserve a chance to pursue their full measure of happiness.

In reaffirming the greatness of our nation, we understand that greatness is never a given. It must be earned. Our journey has never been one of shortcuts or settling for less. It has not been the path for the fainthearted -- for those who prefer leisure over work, or seek only the pleasures of riches and fame. Rather, it has been the risk-takers, the doers, the makers of things -- some celebrated, but more often men and women obscure in their labor -- who have carried us up the long, rugged path toward prosperity and freedom.

For us, they packed up their few worldly possessions and traveled across oceans in search of a new life.

For us, they toiled in sweatshops and settled the West; endured the lash of the whip and plowed the hard earth.

For us, they fought and died, in places like Concord and Gettysburg; Normandy and Khe Sahn.

Time and again, these men and women struggled and sacrificed and worked till their hands were raw so that we might live a better life. They saw America as bigger than the sum of our individual ambitions; greater than all the differences of birth or wealth or faction.

This is the journey we continue today. We remain the most prosperous, powerful nation on Earth. Our workers are no less productive than when this crisis began. Our minds are no less inventive, our goods and services no less needed than they were last week or last month or last year. Our capacity remains undiminished. But our time of standing pat, of protecting narrow interests and putting off unpleasant decisions -- that time has surely passed. Starting today, we must pick ourselves up, dust ourselves off, and begin again the work of remaking America.

For everywhere we look, there is work to be done. The state of the economy calls for action, bold and swift, and we will act -- not only to create new jobs, but to lay a new foundation for growth. We will build the roads and bridges, the electric grids and digital lines that feed our commerce and bind us together. We will restore science to its rightful place, and wield technology's wonders to raise health care's quality and lower its cost. We will harness the sun and the winds and the soil to fuel our cars and run our factories. And we will transform our schools and colleges and universities to meet the demands of a new age. All this we can do. And all this we will do.

Now, there are some who question the scale of our ambitions -- who suggest that our system cannot tolerate too many big plans. Their memories are short. For they have forgotten what this country has already done; what free men and women can achieve when imagination is joined to common purpose, and necessity to courage.

What the cynics fail to understand is that the ground has shifted beneath them -- that the stale political arguments that have consumed us for so long no longer apply. The question we ask today is not whether our government is too big or too small, but whether it works -- whether it helps families find jobs at a decent wage, care they can afford, a retirement that is dignified. Where the answer is yes, we intend to move forward. Where the answer is no, programs will end. And those of us who manage the public's dollars will be held to account -- to spend wisely, reform bad habits, and do our business in the light of day -- because only then can we restore the vital trust between a people and their government.

Nor is the question before us whether the market is a force for good or ill. Its power to generate wealth and expand freedom is unmatched, but this crisis has reminded us that without a watchful eye, the market can spin out of control -- and that a nation cannot prosper long when it favors only the prosperous. The success of our economy has always depended not just on the size of our gross domestic product, but on the reach of our prosperity; on our ability to extend opportunity to every willing heart -- not out of charity, but because it is the surest route to our common good.

As for our common defense, we reject as false the choice between our safety and our ideals. Our Founding Fathers, faced with perils we can scarcely imagine, drafted a charter to assure the rule of law and the rights of man, a charter expanded by the blood of generations. Those ideals still light the world, and we will not give them up for expedience's sake. And so to all other peoples and governments who are watching today, from the grandest capitals to the small village where my father was born: Know that America is a friend of each nation and every man, woman and child who seeks a future of peace and dignity, and that we are ready to lead once more.

Recall that earlier generations faced down fascism and communism not just with missiles and tanks, but with sturdy alliances and enduring convictions. They understood that our power alone cannot protect us, nor does it entitle us to do as we please. Instead, they knew that our power grows through its prudent use; our security emanates from the justness of our cause, the force of our example, the tempering qualities of humility and restraint.

We are the keepers of this legacy. Guided by these principles once more, we can meet those new threats that demand even greater effort -- even greater cooperation and understanding between nations. We will begin to responsibly leave Iraq to its people, and forge a hard-earned peace in Afghanistan. With old friends and former foes, we will work tirelessly to lessen the nuclear threat, and roll back the specter of a warming planet. We will not apologize for our way of life, nor will we waver in its defense, and for those who seek to advance their aims by inducing terror and slaughtering innocents, we say to you now that our spirit is stronger and cannot be broken; you cannot outlast us, and we will defeat you.

For we know that our patchwork heritage is a strength, not a weakness. We are a nation of Christians and Muslims, Jews and Hindus -- and nonbelievers. We are shaped by every language and culture, drawn from every end of this Earth; and because we have tasted the bitter swill of civil war and segregation, and emerged from that dark chapter stronger and more united, we cannot help but believe that the old hatreds shall someday pass; that the lines of tribe shall soon dissolve; that as the world grows smaller, our common humanity shall reveal itself; and that America must play its role in ushering in a new era of peace.

To the Muslim world, we seek a new way forward, based on mutual interest and mutual respect. To those leaders around the globe who seek to sow conflict, or blame their society's ills on the West: Know that your people will judge you on what you can build, not what you destroy. To those who cling to power through corruption and deceit and the silencing of dissent, know that you are on the wrong side of history; but that we will extend a hand if you are willing to unclench your fist.

To the people of poor nations, we pledge to work alongside you to make your farms flourish and let clean waters flow; to nourish starved bodies and feed hungry minds. And to those nations like ours that enjoy relative plenty, we say we can no longer afford indifference to suffering outside our borders; nor can we consume the world's resources without regard to effect. For the world has changed, and we must change with it.

As we consider the road that unfolds before us, we remember with humble gratitude those brave Americans who, at this very hour, patrol far-off deserts and distant mountains. They have something to tell us today, just as the fallen heroes who lie in Arlington whisper through the ages. We honor them not only because they are guardians of our liberty, but because they embody the spirit of service; a willingness to find meaning in something greater than themselves. And yet, at this moment -- a moment that will define a generation -- it is precisely this spirit that must inhabit us all.

For as much as government can do and must do, it is ultimately the faith and determination of the American people upon which this nation relies. It is the kindness to take in a stranger when the levees break, the selflessness of workers who would rather cut their hours than see a friend lose their job which sees us through our darkest hours. It is the firefighter's courage to storm a stairway filled with smoke, but also a parent's willingness to nurture a child, that finally decides our fate.

Our challenges may be new. The instruments with which we meet them may be new. But those values upon which our success depends -- hard work and honesty, courage and fair play, tolerance and curiosity, loyalty and patriotism -- these things are old. These things are true. They have been the quiet force of progress throughout our history. What is demanded then is a return to these truths. What is required of us now is a new era of responsibility -- a recognition, on the part of every American, that we have duties to ourselves, our nation and the world; duties that we do not grudgingly accept but rather seize gladly, firm in the knowledge that there is nothing so satisfying to the spirit, so defining of our character, than giving our all to a difficult task.

This is the price and the promise of citizenship.

This is the source of our confidence -- the knowledge that God calls on us to shape an uncertain destiny.

This is the meaning of our liberty and our creed -- why men and women and children of every race and every faith can join in celebration across this magnificent Mall, and why a man whose father less than 60 years ago might not have been served at a local restaurant can now stand before you to take a most sacred oath.

So let us mark this day with remembrance, of who we are and how far we have traveled. In the year of America's birth, in the coldest of months, a small band of patriots huddled by dying campfires on the shores of an icy river. The capital was abandoned. The enemy was advancing. The snow was stained with blood. At a moment when the outcome of our revolution was most in doubt, the father of our nation ordered these words be read to the people:

"Let it be told to the future world ... that in the depth of winter, when nothing but hope and virtue could survive... that the city and the country, alarmed at one common danger, came forth to meet [it]."

America. In the face of our common dangers, in this winter of our hardship, let us remember these timeless words. With hope and virtue, let us brave once more the icy currents, and endure what storms may come. Let it be said by our children's children that when we were tested, we refused to let this journey end, that we did not turn back, nor did we falter; and with eyes fixed on the horizon and God's grace upon us, we carried forth that great gift of freedom and delivered it safely to future generations.

Inspirational indeed...

Barack Obama, another charismatic leader that the world shall witness.

I look forward to a blissful world under your leadership.

Barack Obama Inaugural Address (Speech) (1/2)

This video is put up for those who prefer listening to reading his speech. Obama not only possesses a leader's characteristics, he has a sexy deep voice as well. Ooh la la...

Barack Obama Inaugural Address (Speech) (2/2)

The speech continues...

~Disheartening fire~

It was by mere coincidence that I stumbled upon a fire brigade which was on the mission of saving houses on fire near my neighbourhood. The truck was initially behind my car with its siren blasting, as if shouting at me very loudly to make way. And so I did. Instead of crossing the bridge and turning right towards the PBSM area to go back home, I decided to give way and go back through the longer way - MPK, passing by ACS and making a u-turn... As I was passing by the Ng Ah Lek ice-cream row of shops, I saw the fire truck coming from my opposite direction. "Weird...," I thought to myself, "it should have gone much further ahead than me as I gave way earlier." The truck then turned left into the Hishamudin school (Islam school). My sis immediately turned her head and saw the bright red blazing fire across. Being the KPC us, I made a u-turn and drove in that area. And there we saw the fire roaring, displaying its vehement claim of who's in charge against the fire brigades.

We parked quite far and had to make our way across the field before I reached my friends house. Hers was opposite the burning houses. There I saw a devastated ex-classmate, sitting stunned on the chair, with two cute and fat rabbits in two cages respectively. When I went into my friend's house, I saw her mom with two other ladies - one sobbing her heart out (3rd house owner a.k.a main victim) and another comforting her (2nd house owner, in which her house was burning as well).

According to my friend's mom, she said that the initiating fire came from the 3rd house's living room. The alcohol reserved for CNY in the house contributed to the speed of the fire spreading. The uncontrollable fire then made its way to the roof of the 2nd and 4th house. I could hear the sound of ceilling crashing down and see sparks of fire flew high in the air. Looking at the fire, I felt helpless and deeply disheartened by the saddening event that befell the unfortunate families; whatmore, CNY is just around the corner. Despite the gloominess of the event, I for once, was proud of our very own fire brigade who were trying their very best to put out the fire. The fire did run wild a few times during the night as it threatened to enlarge its conquest towards the 1st and 5th house but the fire brigade managed to hold it down after much struggle.

I left before the fire was put out entirely but it was already under control by then. I almost weld up in tears when I hugged my ex-classmate, trying to comfort her, yet not knowing what words to say as any words of comfort would be to no avail at that time. All I could offer was a hug; a wordless emotional support...

Front view: Bigger fire on the roof of the 3rd house. Smaller fire making its way towards the 1st house. 2nd house was still burning. The fire was more obvious from the back lane.

Picture taken when the fire suddenly got bigger. I could hear the fireman standing on the roof nearby the fire shouted in a shock.

Come to think about it, I should've taken a short video to provide a clearer description/ preview of the incident...

By the end of the night, I was thinking about what I would have taken from the house if such an unfortunate event were to hit me. Initially, all I thought of was probably hc's gift which I had kept in a box in my room. IC etc. would all be in my bag already, so all I need to do is to grab that bag that's all. Then, it hit me! How could I have not thought about it?! The other main thing that I would grab would be my dearest dog - Latte...

What would my sis take? Her laptop, no doubt...

What would you have thought about and what would you take in that split second?

~Ethics in counseling~

It is down and outright unethical for counselors to meet their needs through their clients; be it their need is to be depended upon or to get a sense of mastery out of their clients. Some may even be a counselor just to fulfill their needs of being loved or needed by another. The essence is that counselors should be aware of their motif when it comes to counseling practice.

What is/are my motive(s) to practice counseling?

Maybe a better question for me to ponder would be: Why am I in counseling in the first place?

Truthfully... I don't really have a concrete answer myself. I took up counseling because that was one of the Masters course available in English in Malaysia. I could have easily chosen the courses provided by the public university but... call me bias (despite learning that one should be open and culturally sensitive), they were not my cup of tea. Now, there's another course - Masters in Clinical Psych available in HELP which very much tickles my interest but... it is no longer in the realm of my choices. Not only am I on the verge of finishing my current course, it maybe too hard a course for me to keep up with though undeniably, I think I would love it more than counseling. Counseling is to certain extent too ambiguous and too vague which is not to my liking whereas Clinical psych tend to provide more objective answers. Of course, both are advantageous when it involves the helping profession; I would say it's a matter of perspective.

Anyways, putting that aside, am I going to be potentially at risk at meeting my own needs through my clients? This thought came to my mind last two days when I stumbled upon one of the most interesting cases. It was my first experience with a student who totally rejected me. I wasn't even able to start class as he sat on the sofa, in the same position, for almost 2 whole hours. That's how determined he was, sending the message that he DID NOT want tuition. The thing was that I didn't even feel like withdrawing. I got even more excited and intrigued by the boy's reaction. To me, it was a good opportunity for me to practice my counseling skills and if I could really break the boy, it would definitely boost my confidence when it comes to practicum semester. Now, in relation to my self-reflection - Why am I practicing counseling? Is it to meet my needs of self-mastery? Or am I interested in the welfare of the boy? Maybe... Maybe not...

~My first bump~

Had my first ever bump on Monday (12/01/09)... while I was reversing my car. I've always thought that I was quite competent when it comes to my car-reversing skills but I guess not. I'm not really sure what happened that day as it happened too fast for me to even analyse in the first place. I just remember reversing and by the time I realised that there was a fat round short stone vase at the back of my car, it was a little too late for me to avoid the minor accident; despite my trying to step on the brake as much as possible. Plus, there was sand at the crime scene and that was the other culprit that contributed to the unfortunate bump. My bumper was kinda hit out of position, as in it bent outward and it pressed against the rubber piece behind my tyre which eventually caused it to brushed against the tyre. I had to endure the noisiness all the way from Bangsar back to Klang after class.

This is a picture of my bumper AFTER I got it fixed. The mechanic kindly helped me to reposition my bumper and he did mention that there were tiny dents and bents inside, of course not to mention the scratches. Huhu...

Not the best event ever.

Again, my first bump...

~The other pressie~

How many would actually believe if I were to say that this was made and given by hc?

I doubt... Too girlie? No? Anyway, it's probably not the best decorated mushrooms on earth but it did take me quite some effort to get it done, especially when it comes to dealing with the tiny air balls which were annoying to a certain extent.

HAPPY 6TH ANNIVERSARY, DEAR!

~Pressie I~

One of my pressies for him for our anniversary:

A collection of our pics. Was done in a rush. Wished I had more pictures in hand. These are all after I came back from the States.

~Six going on seven~

Happy anniversary!

Was thinking about the "history" of our relationship - how we got to know each other and how we built our relationship from scratch. We've come a long way; The road was definitely not easy on us...

Of all the obstacles that we've been through, I would say that my year in US was the toughest year ever for us. We went through various conflicts and turmoils in that one year itself. Thank you dear for holding on so tightly and never letting go. If not for you, we would never have the many years ahead.

There will be many more challenges in the future and I don't know how strong we will stand. As we all know, nothing is absolute in this world. Nonetheless, nothing is impossible either. I believe that we will be able to make it through and work towards our future together.

Let's be lovey dovey always...

Again... I'm drowning in the midst of love...

~Random~

30/12/08 - Shopping at Bangsar with Suan and Sze.

Blue clubbing dress in Poppi.

At Zara.

3 - 4/01/09 - Balik Kampung.

Billy and grandma heating up banana leaves for CNY's kuih bakul.

My grandma, the expert. Was once on TV3 for her expertise on Kuih Bakul.

Looks like she's having fun but trust me, it's tough job.

5/01/09 - New haircut.

Got a new haircut at LEON. Not much of a difference eh? Almost curled my hair but decided not to in the end.

~Cruising on SuperStar Libra... Part II~

Day 3 (23/12/08) - On Libra

A whole day spent on the ship. Sun-bathing day! Just right after breakfast, we immediately head to the pool deck - my sis clad in her new bikini and dress and my mom in her long-time unworn swimsuit and my beach sarong.

Does my mom's colorful sarong look familiar? Got it when I went for a holiday with hc in Langkawi. My sis's bikini was bought from Phuket and it was darn cheap, just about 300 Baht. I would have gotten one if I didn't already have.

My younger bro (in brown) participated in a mini marathon along with other younger kids.

The dumpling making demonstration, where my bro took the advantage to show off some of his culinary skills. Of course, he's not in the picture. Those are my mom's friend, with her daughter and mother. And beside is the Guest Service Crew (I don't think this is how they call it) who is incharge of entertainment and all sorts - Harry from India.

Once the sun got too bright that it started to burn my skin, I suggested that we participate in their indoor games. And we moved on to playing Cluedo in our cabin. It was a slow moving game because thanks to my smart bro, we had to play it the tough way. It took forever for just 1 game to end, approximately 30 minutes or so. I knew something was amiss and only did I realize in the end that we were not playing it according to how it should have been played. Time passed and we went back to the pool deck to have tea. The cookies and cakes were good... Immediately after that, we had to rush back to our cabins to prepare for the night's ever important GALA DINNER with the Captain. We so wanted Western dinner but... we ended up eating a Chinese banquet dinner... as we tagged the booking along with other friends of my dad - very Chinese-oriented family. Well, what's done has been done and it was too late for us to change anyway...

Prior to dinner, the Captain gave the guests a warm welcome speech in the lounge and he later introduced the head of each department. The dinner was meant to be a token of appreciation for the crews serving us on the ship. They even served champagne in the reception.

My sis and I in the Chinese restaurant , Ocean's Palace. Camwhoring, as usual...

Studio photo lookalike.

And another... But my face looked flat, like a pancake.

The first dish.

We didn't take pictures of other dishes as we were busy eating. Truthfully, the food was just "ma ma tae". They even had a small presentation towards the end of the dinner, sort of like an introduction to their kitchen crews. After dinner, we went to the lounge to watch that night's performance "Tropicalia", performed by the same bunch at the pool deck. There was a game show before the dance called the "Newly wed, not so newly wed couple" where they invited three different couples - one just married about 20 days, 2nd about 8 years and 3rd, 50 years! They asked questions regarding their partners e.g. sound of their fart, ex-gf, people they hate in the family etc. It was a fun game as the participants were sporting and the audience participated along. The night ended with the Tropicalia dance. I just couldn't take my eyes off that blonde hunk. Not only was he good in dancing, he was the main character in the performance. An instant eye catcher!

There was a special performance that night entitled The Las Vegas Topless Show - Night on Broadway, meaning the dancers dance topless. It catered only to 18 years old and above and the tickets were not cheap - 30 or 40 Sing per person. Curious, we decided to watch it... No pictures or videos were allowed to be taken. At the end of the show, I turned and asked my mom, "What was the objective of the show?" I would say that I wasn't their target audience or maybe I just didn't know how to appreciate their performance. To me, it was just plain dancing by topless girls and guys. Besides their professionalism, I don't see other things worthy of watching. For those of you who may stumble upon this show in the future, do think twice...

Day 4 (24/12/08) - Disembarking in Singapore.

We had to wake up darn early as the disembark time was 8 - 9am. Plus, we had to get our passports and all from the crew. There weren't much places that we could go at that hour. So we decided to go to Gu Chia Zhui/ Ngau Che Kok, in other words, Chinatown. It was raining and without much thought, we just took on a cab and head to our destination. Many shops were still closed. We couldn't do much except to look around in luggage shops and some souvenir shops, selling cheap watches, magnets, paper holder and even CNY decoration ornaments. My mom bought a whole lot of angpau packets from one of the shops. She was worried that Malaysia would run out of red packets. Haha... My dad was interested in buying luggage; I have no idea why. My two brothers bought a bagpack each. It seemed that it was cheaper to buy in Singapore. And... the most surprising thing was that... My dad was super duper eager to buy Wii. After a quite disappointing visit to Chinatown (too early!), we headed towards Bugis Street, the Petaling Street of Singapore. This time we took the ever convenient MRT. Despite my dad being very occupied with his work (on the phone almost the whole time) , he tagged along, walking around with us as we struggled to find our way.

Posing in the MRT. People could easily identify us as tourists.

In Bugis Junction.

Our next destination was Orchard Road. It wasn't as exciting because of the timing; it was daylight. Orchard looked ordinary and we didn't have the chance to appreciate its famous decorations and lighting. We just walked around the streets, taking picture of every decoration we saw, passing by 5 star hotels such as Hyatt and Hilton. By then, my dad's leg was beginning to ache and he could no longer walk as much anymore. The initial plan was for us to have lunch in Geylang, in the famous soya bean & yew cha kuei shop but considering that it peak hour, we gave up that notion. I was trying to find the food court that we had once eaten there before but it somehow just vanished. We searched high and low but it just never came into view. In the midst of the food court quest, we found a shop which sold Wii for 300Sing dollar, with one remote control only! No warranty, no games installed, no 2nd remote control. It was a very tempting offer but we declined anyways because it wasn't worth it with the tax and the risk of buying in another land; whatmore, without warranty! And that marked the end of our trip in Singapore...

Decorations in Orchard.

I think this was in front of Hyatt, or maybe Hilton.

Back in the ship, we prepared for Christmas Eve dinner. We were determined to dine in Four Seasons. Arriving at 6.10pm, we were taken aback when we saw the queue was as long as from my kitchen to my front door. How could we have forgotten?! The Singaporeans just embarked today! Their super kiasu-ness was really quite a scene and... rather unbearable...

Lucky for us, we managed to get a place.

Appetizer: Soft shell crab salad.

One of the main courses: Beef Wellington.

Salmon with honey mustard and mash potato.

Desert: Chocolate Log.

Sugar Santa Clauses.

After dinner was the Eve party at the pool deck. Many people gathered there for countdown including the crews. A few performances here and there.

By the Dance group with members from Brazil and Belaraus.

My hunk! Tall and handsome and darn good in dancing!

Entertainment crews. The corner girl is a Japanese. The rest are mainly from Phillipines.

Singer from Twice as Nice (Red top). And the other is the Crew Director.

Our Captain from Sweden.

The friendly Goldilicious. Remember the he-she performance. He's the one in gold.

Really a very friendly person.

After the pool party ended, my bro "met" an angmoh gal who called him to continue the party in Boomers Disco. We tagged along. There were other lads who were there as well. Most were underage. Knowing me who has never stepped into a club before, it was really not a familiar environment - dancing on the dance floor (soooo not my thing!), drinking alcohol (super a lot!) etc. My bro even asked me was I dancing Latin?! That's like the only dance that I know; what did you expect?! When the disco was closing at 2am, the young lads playfully harrassed the DJ but they gave in in the end and decided to continue their gathering at the pool deck. Only my elder bro went. I suppose he was hoping to get laid. Haha............ But.... his dream didn't come true. He was back sleeping at the cabin by morning.

A picture of our dressing table on the last night on ship.

Day 5 (25/12/08) - Checking out from Libra.

We checked out after breakfast and that marked the end of our cruise. Heard that they were selling Libra. I suppose I'll never have the chance to board it again.... Ciao!

Goodbye and farewell...

~Welcoming 2009~

Let's give a round of applause for the arrival of Yang Amat Berhormat Year 2009!

As much as I am unprepared for 2009, I am not given the choice to reject its arrival. So, whether I like it or not, I have to embrace the passing of time. It feels like as if it was just yesterday when I celebrated the arrival of year 2008 and now it's already the year after. How I wish my course would go by that fast. I still have another 1 year and 3 mths to go before I graduate from my Masters and come out a counselor. I guess the speed of time is of a subjective opinion. Time passes faster when one does not notice its presence and it slows down when one pays too much attention to its presence. How ironic...

Instead of going for countdowns in Sungei Wang, The Curve, or even AEON Bukit Tinggi, I chose to countdown in the one state where celebration is not allowed - none other than Seremban, in the state of Minangkabau, Negeri Sembilan, where the honorable Yang Dipertua just passed away a few days ago. No fireworks, no cinema, no bars... Almost zero entertainment! So, what did we do? We ended up having an alcoholic party in one of hc's friend's house with about 30 people drinking a mixture of tequila, vodka, guiness gold, coke, sprite etc. It is indeed very enjoyable to watch people's behavior and reaction as I saw them transform from totally conscious to gradual arousal to a little tipsy, then to silence and dizziness and even to the extent of being sober.

2009, you intruded without my permission; without even asking whether I was prepared for your arrival. But here you are now and I have to forcefully accept your presence... Then again, I probably am the way I am now because I feel that I have let 2008 passed by insignificantly. I feel like as if I let it come and go and I did not achieve much through out the year. And 2008 was somewhat a rough year for me as well - career ups and downs, electronic devices breaking down, dengue fever etc.

The implication?

Live 2009 to the fullest!

2009's resolution?

Reduce my procrastination!

A kind reminder: Time and tide waits for no man/woman.