Wow... is this a dream?
Am I really that close already?
A long time ago, I didn't even dare to think about it. I didn't even believe I could see this day coming. I told myself, how nice would it be if I could just fast forward the time.
Now, the day have finally arrived...
2 Days ago, I finally received the confirmation.
AFTER NEARLY 6 MONTHS, 6 FRIGGING LONG MONTHS, OF AGONIZING & DOUBTFUL WAIT....
IT'S FINALLY CONFIRMED, IT'S FINALLY APPROVED, IT'S FINALLY FINALIZED.
No more "in process", no more "one more week", no more uncertainties, no more worries~
It's like a huge burden lifted from my shoulders, and I was overjoyed when I saw the notice.
If my calculation doesn't fail me, the difference should be 37 days.
...
And now...
For those people that "blame" me for doing this, for the people "advising" me not to, for those saying that I'm very "jian", etc... I don't know what to say.
Truthfully speaking, you think this is what I want?
You think I am so 'song' to be able to push my actual date till next year?
You think I would be happy to see those that went in later than me, actually leaving earlier than me?
You think I want to do this, if I can choose not to?
If you really think so, then my friend...
...
You are very wrong.
...
The truth is that I have no other choice. If I don't make the decision I did, I would have to wait 365 - 37 = 328 days.
THREE HUNDRED, TWENTY EIGHT DAYS.
Yes. 328 days wasted for 37 days. I don't see what other better choice I could have made.
...
...
I don't know how I'll feel on that day, leaving with these 37 days left. They're like thin strings attached to a kite. As long as all the strings are not totally cut off, the kite would never truly be free. I can soar into the skies earlier, but I would still have those tiny chains binding me. It's not the same as being truly free.
...
But well, to not sound so depressing...
For now, I will simply strike off the 37 days from the books.
For now, let me forget that these 37 days exists.
For now, just let me buried these 37 days deep underground, until the day they're ready to be freed.
Until the day all the strings are ready to be cut.
...
For now, just let me live in the illusion~
In the illusion that 63 days from now would be the actual day.
Let me enjoy that moment. Let me experience the euphoria.
I've also worked almost 700 days for that moment.
Please don't deny me of that right.
Please don't deny me of that joy.
Thursday, May 29, 2008
Monday, May 26, 2008
Saturday, May 24, 2008
3 Kingdoms By Yi Zhong Tian
I've been hooked to this "Lecture Show" programme by Yi Zhong Tian on the 3 Kingdoms recently, known as 《易中天品三国》.
This show really reignited my interests in the 3 Kingdoms (3K), and I highly recommend it to any 3K fans. This is not a show that tells the 3K story, but one that analyze it in great detail and makes you look at it at a much deeper level. Therefore, you ought to be reasonable familiar with the story and its characters before you'll actually appreciate (or even understand) the show. It assumes you already know most of it.
At first, I thought of this as an "old people show" when I saw the ads on TV. I mean, some old professor giving a talk on history? Booooring~
However, that immediately changed when I happened to come across one episode on TV. Just 5 minutes and I was hooked.
The first episode I saw was "三顾茅庐" (3 Visits To Hut), which describes how Liu Bei visits Zhuge Liang 3 times to "employ" him. The way the professor analyze the whole event really opens up your mind, and makes you understand the rationale behind this story. He presents it in a very simple, "layman" manner. When he makes reference to the ancient writings, he'll break it down as to what it means in "modern language".
Historians have many different view points on what exactly happened.
For example, Zhuge Liang obviously wanted to join Liu Bei, but how can he be so sure that Liu Bei will visit him 3 times? What if he doesn't? Would Zhuge Liang be content to spend the rest of his life living in seclusion? Why did he choose Liu Bei instead of other more powerful rulers at that time? In reality, did Zhuge Liang presents himself to Liu Bei or did Liu Bei really went to invite him thrice?
He first lists the historical records. When the records seems to contradict each other, he analyze it from a logical view point. After that, he will try to make some hypothesis as to what exactly happened. It's like digging up some old puzzle from a thousand years ago and trying to piece it back 1 by 1 - like watching a dramatic story unfold.
After that episode, I knew I had to watch the whole series.
Many people does not know the difference between 2 of the following:
三国志 (Records of 3 Kingdoms): This is the historic record book. It is written like 5 years after the 3 Kingdoms period by a historian, and is deem to be reliable as an ACTUAL ACCOUNT of what actually happened in history.
三国演义 (Romance of 3 Kingdoms): This is just a NOVEL based on history, written by some talented novelist about 1000 years after 3K period. The characters and battles are generally from history, mixed with the author imagination. Some people said that this novel is 70% reality and 30% imagination. Most of what you see from drama series, in comics, in games are from this. All 3K works are mostly derived from this because it is much more interesting and "epic".
In Romance of 3 Kingdoms, Liu Bei's Shu is like the "main protagonist". Zhuge Liang is like the "main hero". Thus, their character, their traits and their abilities are greatly amplified and glorified. In the case of Zhuge Liang, the author even try to make him out to be a "near-godlike" character. On the other hand, the story puts down "evil guys" like Cao Cao and Wei. Thus, many of the actual events are actually "shrinked/expanded" based on storyline requirements.
The show decipher the real 3K in great detail - which events are dubious and untrue, the reasons behind the success and failures of every major battle, the thoughts and relations between the characters, etc...
For example, the "Empty City Ruse" (空城计). This whole event never happened in history. It is made up in 三国演义 to further "god-ify" Zhuge Liang, but many still believe in it. This show takes apart this event and tells you why it is illogical, ridiculous and just not possible in reality. After that, the professor doesn't just disregard this whole story as bullcrap. The professor explains why the author of Romance 3K wrote this part, and what you can learn from it. Very intriguing.
I had an almost entirely different perception of 3K from watching the show. For example, do you really think Zhuge Liang is the smartest in the whole of 3 kingdoms? Is he really such a great "military strategist"? This show gives some other "alternatives".
Is the Zhou Yu's really narrow-minded, inferior and eventually driven to death by Zhuge Liang?
Is Cao Cao a villain or a hero? How did he rise from nothing to a great ruler of the north? What is it about him that makes so many talented people join him? What is the reason behind some seemingly ridiculous things he did?
And many many of the famous events in 3 Kingdoms, from its formation up till the very end.
At the same time, it also try to teach the audience some "lessons" from the rulers' mistakes or success - like the political system of that period, how different rulers made their subordinates so loyal to them, how rulers treat the emperor, how Zhuge Liang manage to forge an alliance that is seemingly impossible, etc...
Bottom line - I think it's a freaking good documentary series.
This show really reignited my interests in the 3 Kingdoms (3K), and I highly recommend it to any 3K fans. This is not a show that tells the 3K story, but one that analyze it in great detail and makes you look at it at a much deeper level. Therefore, you ought to be reasonable familiar with the story and its characters before you'll actually appreciate (or even understand) the show. It assumes you already know most of it.
At first, I thought of this as an "old people show" when I saw the ads on TV. I mean, some old professor giving a talk on history? Booooring~
However, that immediately changed when I happened to come across one episode on TV. Just 5 minutes and I was hooked.
The first episode I saw was "三顾茅庐" (3 Visits To Hut), which describes how Liu Bei visits Zhuge Liang 3 times to "employ" him. The way the professor analyze the whole event really opens up your mind, and makes you understand the rationale behind this story. He presents it in a very simple, "layman" manner. When he makes reference to the ancient writings, he'll break it down as to what it means in "modern language".
Historians have many different view points on what exactly happened.
For example, Zhuge Liang obviously wanted to join Liu Bei, but how can he be so sure that Liu Bei will visit him 3 times? What if he doesn't? Would Zhuge Liang be content to spend the rest of his life living in seclusion? Why did he choose Liu Bei instead of other more powerful rulers at that time? In reality, did Zhuge Liang presents himself to Liu Bei or did Liu Bei really went to invite him thrice?
He first lists the historical records. When the records seems to contradict each other, he analyze it from a logical view point. After that, he will try to make some hypothesis as to what exactly happened. It's like digging up some old puzzle from a thousand years ago and trying to piece it back 1 by 1 - like watching a dramatic story unfold.
After that episode, I knew I had to watch the whole series.
Many people does not know the difference between 2 of the following:
三国志 (Records of 3 Kingdoms): This is the historic record book. It is written like 5 years after the 3 Kingdoms period by a historian, and is deem to be reliable as an ACTUAL ACCOUNT of what actually happened in history.
三国演义 (Romance of 3 Kingdoms): This is just a NOVEL based on history, written by some talented novelist about 1000 years after 3K period. The characters and battles are generally from history, mixed with the author imagination. Some people said that this novel is 70% reality and 30% imagination. Most of what you see from drama series, in comics, in games are from this. All 3K works are mostly derived from this because it is much more interesting and "epic".
In Romance of 3 Kingdoms, Liu Bei's Shu is like the "main protagonist". Zhuge Liang is like the "main hero". Thus, their character, their traits and their abilities are greatly amplified and glorified. In the case of Zhuge Liang, the author even try to make him out to be a "near-godlike" character. On the other hand, the story puts down "evil guys" like Cao Cao and Wei. Thus, many of the actual events are actually "shrinked/expanded" based on storyline requirements.
The show decipher the real 3K in great detail - which events are dubious and untrue, the reasons behind the success and failures of every major battle, the thoughts and relations between the characters, etc...
For example, the "Empty City Ruse" (空城计). This whole event never happened in history. It is made up in 三国演义 to further "god-ify" Zhuge Liang, but many still believe in it. This show takes apart this event and tells you why it is illogical, ridiculous and just not possible in reality. After that, the professor doesn't just disregard this whole story as bullcrap. The professor explains why the author of Romance 3K wrote this part, and what you can learn from it. Very intriguing.
I had an almost entirely different perception of 3K from watching the show. For example, do you really think Zhuge Liang is the smartest in the whole of 3 kingdoms? Is he really such a great "military strategist"? This show gives some other "alternatives".
Is the Zhou Yu's really narrow-minded, inferior and eventually driven to death by Zhuge Liang?
Is Cao Cao a villain or a hero? How did he rise from nothing to a great ruler of the north? What is it about him that makes so many talented people join him? What is the reason behind some seemingly ridiculous things he did?
And many many of the famous events in 3 Kingdoms, from its formation up till the very end.
At the same time, it also try to teach the audience some "lessons" from the rulers' mistakes or success - like the political system of that period, how different rulers made their subordinates so loyal to them, how rulers treat the emperor, how Zhuge Liang manage to forge an alliance that is seemingly impossible, etc...
Bottom line - I think it's a freaking good documentary series.
Thursday, May 22, 2008
Harmony Breeds Prosperity...
以合为贵
An event recently made me thought of these 4 very important words...
In our life, we have to deal with all kind of relations. Relations between friends, between boss and employees, between colleagues, between husband and wife, between siblings, etc...
Sometimes, it can be extremely difficult to deal with such relations, especially when there are more than 1 kind of connection between the 2 persons. For example, what if your wife is also your boss? What if your friend is also your teacher?
When you have more than a single kind of relationship with a person, it becomes sort of confusing, even troublesome.
In this case, should you treat the 2 types of relation as "separate entity", or as a whole? It can be a real pain in the neck.
Let me give you a more concrete example.
Let's say you have 2 friends, A & B. Both of them are your friends as well as work colleagues. You like working with A, because his working style fits you. When you work with him, you 2 are able to complement each other and thus finish the project faster and better.
On the other hand, you simply can't work well with B. He has his own style of doing things, and you can't accept his style. He doesn't approve your methods as well. Both of you will probably screw up the project real bad (or make each other unhappy) when placed together.
However, does the above means that A is a better personal friend to you than B? Obviously not.
You value both of them as your friends, and your "working relations" is IN NO WAY an indication of your "personal relations". They are entirely 2 separate entity.
Now, let's say the company assigned you a project to complete. You definitely want to work with A, even in the case that A isn't as close a friend to you as B.
If you can't get along well (in terms of work) with each other, then the solution is simple: Simply don't work with each other.
This is a simple philosophy - At work, we stay clear of each other path. After work, we're friends and we have fun together. Don't let some working relations affect your friendship with each other.
This is the essence of "Harmony Breeds Prosperity" (以合为贵).
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
The Stupidity Test
"Battle God" showed this game to me...
Of course I didn't get that on my first try... Haha.
First time I got 50% stupidity. (Failed at that symbol question)
Second time was when I got 0%. (I lucked passed the 2nd Symbol question)
I figured out how to solve the 1st symbol one, but I have no idea what the 2nd one is about. The "twist" at the end was pretty shocking...
A bit lame lah... but good way to waste 5 minutes of your time.
Of course I didn't get that on my first try... Haha.
First time I got 50% stupidity. (Failed at that symbol question)
Second time was when I got 0%. (I lucked passed the 2nd Symbol question)
I figured out how to solve the 1st symbol one, but I have no idea what the 2nd one is about. The "twist" at the end was pretty shocking...
A bit lame lah... but good way to waste 5 minutes of your time.
Monday, May 19, 2008
Legend Of Kay Kingdom VI
LEGEND OF KAY KINGDOM VI - Knights Of The Round
IMPORTANT NOTE: This story is purely fictitious. Any resemblance to reality (people living or dead, places past or present) is purely coincidental.
View Legend of Kay Kingdom content page.
The "Joyless Lands", the "Evil Mortuary Road", the "Savage Waters"...
The 3 bloodlines of the of the Kay Kingdom. Each route leads directly into the heart of Kay, into the core of the lands. There, you'll find a bustling, thriving metropolis. A sacred ground on earth...
The Cranberry City - Capital of Kay Kingdom...
Within the capital lies the impregnable acropolis - the "Pentagon Divine Fortress".
Constructed centuries ago by the first emperor of Kay, it is a virtually indestructible palace, a symbol of absolute strength and power. The pinnacle of the righteous realm.
A fortress constructed with the blood of the ancients, fortified with the strongest matter known in the world. The city walls towers into the skies, with gigantic turrets safeguarding every location. Every year, thousands all over the land arrived at the fort to offer their services, and only the best would be recruited.
In there, you'll find the mightiest steels of all.
The best of the Imperial Force.
The Kay Knights.
Made up of people from dozen different backgrounds, occupations, origins - each with their own expertise... Somehow, fate have brought all of them together, together for a common goal...
Originally tribal people, the Kay Knights settled down and integrated themselves quickly into the Imperial Force. The 13 lowest ranking of the Knights would work day and nights, laying the foundation of the Imperial Stables. Training grounds were constructed, equipments were sharpened and the imperial steeds multiplied. Gradually but slowly, the knights consolidate their positions in the Kingdom...
Life were much tougher than back in the village, but at least it was still passable. At least it was still peaceful. At least it was still fun...
...
And then it happened.
On the 4th Year of the 7th Eclipse, 10 new knights (later known as the "10 Crusaders") joined the existing force...
Within the same year, the 3 Grand Pillars of the Knights collapses, 1 after another. The 3 Grand Pillars were the ones who originally maintained law and order in the village days. And now, they have left the Knights Circle 1 by 1 in such a short period.
It was the first time people outside the tribal villages were inducted into the Circle, and many problems soon arises. The old master chefs were unhappy of the new, and the new disregarded the old. It was a period of great internal conflict.
And during such chaotic times, the statues of the 13 men sky-rocketed. They acted as a "bridge" between the old and the new, restoring some order within the Circle.
And thus...The 13 chariots were born.
Unfortunately, even the 13 chariots themselves weren't that united. After a while, some of them started sided with the old, some with the new. Some seek the generals for greater protection, others stay neutral to avoid getting involve in the bloodshed. Some even joined together and form a new faction for themselves.
On the surface, it looks like everything was the same, just like the village days; In reality, everything have changed. The internal strife were great, and this only became worse after the induction of the "6 Dragoons", when the 13 chariots positions went even higher. (More on this in the next chapter...)
Among the 13 Chariots, many would rise to become 1 of the 8 Immortals (八"仙").
3. The Cannon Immortal (大炮仙)
Background: Originally named the "Cannon Fairy", his outstanding performance made him the one of the first 13 chariots to reach the "8 Immortals " statues.
Description: The Ninja master moves with unparalleled speed and agility, able to avoid great dangers despite his appearance. He looks much older than he really is, and loves spreading dark rumors throughout the lands.
Rebirth: 9th Year, 8th Eclipse
Status: 1 of the 13 Chariots. 1 of the original 8 Immortals.
[N] Ninja: LV9
[C] Cookery: LV4
[T] Taiji: LV7
[I] Illusion: LV6
Notable Skills:
[N] 无影无踪 - The ultimate art of vanish. Becomes "unlocatable" and "undetectable".
[I] 妖言惑众 - Spread evil rumors, creating fear and unrest across the lands.
[T] 举一反三 - Able to devise 3 ways to block an external attack.
4. Drunkard Immortal (醉仙)
Background: Some said he's a drug trafficker, others said he uses it to "criminalize" himself. He loves to drink and can sleep under almost any conditions. Drinking boasts his courage and makes him fearless...
Description: The drunkard is oblivious to everything around him, or at least "seem to be oblivious". His unpredictable movements, great agility and wine illness allows him to avoid dangers and arrows with great ease.
Rebirth: ?? Year, 8th Eclipse
Status: 1 of the original 8 Immortals.
[N] Ninja: LV8
[C] Cookery: LV2
[T] Taiji: LV6
[I] Illusion: LV7
Notable Skills:
[N] 瞬间转移 - Reallocate oneself instantly to another location.
[I] 装疯扮傻 - Act blur look steam.
[T] 推三阻四 - Uses the art of "Taiji" to deflect an attack.
Unfortunately, this was no time for the knights to be fighting among themselves.
A vile, demonic beast has awakened from his deep long slumber. News of the Knights strength have spread to the far ends of the lands, into the lands of darkness, and into the realm of evil.
While the internal problems were troublesome...
The external ones will threaten the very existence of the Knights...
...
and the very existence of the Kay Kingdom.
...
...
The forces of darkness have started to stir...
IMPORTANT NOTE: This story is purely fictitious. Any resemblance to reality (people living or dead, places past or present) is purely coincidental.
View Legend of Kay Kingdom content page.
The "Joyless Lands", the "Evil Mortuary Road", the "Savage Waters"...
The 3 bloodlines of the of the Kay Kingdom. Each route leads directly into the heart of Kay, into the core of the lands. There, you'll find a bustling, thriving metropolis. A sacred ground on earth...
The Cranberry City - Capital of Kay Kingdom...
Within the capital lies the impregnable acropolis - the "Pentagon Divine Fortress".
Constructed centuries ago by the first emperor of Kay, it is a virtually indestructible palace, a symbol of absolute strength and power. The pinnacle of the righteous realm.
A fortress constructed with the blood of the ancients, fortified with the strongest matter known in the world. The city walls towers into the skies, with gigantic turrets safeguarding every location. Every year, thousands all over the land arrived at the fort to offer their services, and only the best would be recruited.
In there, you'll find the mightiest steels of all.
The best of the Imperial Force.
The Kay Knights.
Made up of people from dozen different backgrounds, occupations, origins - each with their own expertise... Somehow, fate have brought all of them together, together for a common goal...
Originally tribal people, the Kay Knights settled down and integrated themselves quickly into the Imperial Force. The 13 lowest ranking of the Knights would work day and nights, laying the foundation of the Imperial Stables. Training grounds were constructed, equipments were sharpened and the imperial steeds multiplied. Gradually but slowly, the knights consolidate their positions in the Kingdom...
Life were much tougher than back in the village, but at least it was still passable. At least it was still peaceful. At least it was still fun...
...
And then it happened.
On the 4th Year of the 7th Eclipse, 10 new knights (later known as the "10 Crusaders") joined the existing force...
Within the same year, the 3 Grand Pillars of the Knights collapses, 1 after another. The 3 Grand Pillars were the ones who originally maintained law and order in the village days. And now, they have left the Knights Circle 1 by 1 in such a short period.
It was the first time people outside the tribal villages were inducted into the Circle, and many problems soon arises. The old master chefs were unhappy of the new, and the new disregarded the old. It was a period of great internal conflict.
And during such chaotic times, the statues of the 13 men sky-rocketed. They acted as a "bridge" between the old and the new, restoring some order within the Circle.
And thus...The 13 chariots were born.
Unfortunately, even the 13 chariots themselves weren't that united. After a while, some of them started sided with the old, some with the new. Some seek the generals for greater protection, others stay neutral to avoid getting involve in the bloodshed. Some even joined together and form a new faction for themselves.
On the surface, it looks like everything was the same, just like the village days; In reality, everything have changed. The internal strife were great, and this only became worse after the induction of the "6 Dragoons", when the 13 chariots positions went even higher. (More on this in the next chapter...)
Among the 13 Chariots, many would rise to become 1 of the 8 Immortals (八"仙").
3. The Cannon Immortal (大炮仙)
Background: Originally named the "Cannon Fairy", his outstanding performance made him the one of the first 13 chariots to reach the "8 Immortals " statues.
Description: The Ninja master moves with unparalleled speed and agility, able to avoid great dangers despite his appearance. He looks much older than he really is, and loves spreading dark rumors throughout the lands.
Rebirth: 9th Year, 8th Eclipse
Status: 1 of the 13 Chariots. 1 of the original 8 Immortals.
[N] Ninja: LV9
[C] Cookery: LV4
[T] Taiji: LV7
[I] Illusion: LV6
Notable Skills:
[N] 无影无踪 - The ultimate art of vanish. Becomes "unlocatable" and "undetectable".
[I] 妖言惑众 - Spread evil rumors, creating fear and unrest across the lands.
[T] 举一反三 - Able to devise 3 ways to block an external attack.
4. Drunkard Immortal (醉仙)
Background: Some said he's a drug trafficker, others said he uses it to "criminalize" himself. He loves to drink and can sleep under almost any conditions. Drinking boasts his courage and makes him fearless...
Description: The drunkard is oblivious to everything around him, or at least "seem to be oblivious". His unpredictable movements, great agility and wine illness allows him to avoid dangers and arrows with great ease.
Rebirth: ?? Year, 8th Eclipse
Status: 1 of the original 8 Immortals.
[N] Ninja: LV8
[C] Cookery: LV2
[T] Taiji: LV6
[I] Illusion: LV7
Notable Skills:
[N] 瞬间转移 - Reallocate oneself instantly to another location.
[I] 装疯扮傻 - Act blur look steam.
[T] 推三阻四 - Uses the art of "Taiji" to deflect an attack.
Unfortunately, this was no time for the knights to be fighting among themselves.
A vile, demonic beast has awakened from his deep long slumber. News of the Knights strength have spread to the far ends of the lands, into the lands of darkness, and into the realm of evil.
While the internal problems were troublesome...
The external ones will threaten the very existence of the Knights...
...
and the very existence of the Kay Kingdom.
...
...
The forces of darkness have started to stir...
Saturday, May 17, 2008
Geraint's House BBQ
Just came back from yet another Kindergarten gathering. Participants includes Geraint (Host), Karl (Organizer), Yun Zhen (Birthday Boy), Wei Long, Edwin, Yao Peng, Anthony, Benjamin, Cheung Jie and Wei Qi.
These days really a lot of gatherings. In fact, I don't think there were any in my first year at the Kindergarten (excluding those clubbers kind). Really thanks to Karl that we get to have so many "get-together" sessions. Somehow, a lot of people will turn up for the events he organizes.
Geraint's residence is really huge (Top 3 biggest friends home I've seen), and he has got a level all for himself.
Mostly is spammed Wii at his house... It's also one of the main reason I went despite having a very tiring night before (heh). Played the Mario Brawl game which I really sucks at. Then our "Official Kindergarten game" Mario Kart. It was really hard using the motion sensor as you have to gauge how much to turn the Wii-Wheel. -_-
And of course, my favourite game of the night - Wii Sports. We basically played that for the rest of the night. Was hilarious watching them played, especially the boxing game. As for me, I kept playing tennis against Edwin and Yun Zhen... again and again and again. Swing until right arm sore... very fun party game.
Of course, we didn't forget to give the birthday boy a surprise. Heh. Quite stress leh... cause we lit the candles downstairs, and I had to bring it up. Then I had to "protect the flame" from going out while climbing the dark stairs alone... At the same time, must make sure he doesn't see the cake. In the end I had to "hide" behind a wall to wait for the signal... Then he still keep running around... Simi sai...
I don't think he expected it...heh... Hope he enjoyed what we prepared for him. 20 years old liao hor. Don't be so siao all the time.
Food was alright, especially the chicken wings. Otah sucks though. Special thanks to Anthony for being the "main chef" for the night. So...What I do?
Basically...
1) Eat
2) Play Wii
3) Eat
4) Play Wii
5) Rinse and Repeat.
TCSS session. Originally planned to go home at 10+, but play until forget the time. Luckily got Benben to give us a ride home...
I think next time must go again... couldn't get enough of Wii. :P
These days really a lot of gatherings. In fact, I don't think there were any in my first year at the Kindergarten (excluding those clubbers kind). Really thanks to Karl that we get to have so many "get-together" sessions. Somehow, a lot of people will turn up for the events he organizes.
Geraint's residence is really huge (Top 3 biggest friends home I've seen), and he has got a level all for himself.
Mostly is spammed Wii at his house... It's also one of the main reason I went despite having a very tiring night before (heh). Played the Mario Brawl game which I really sucks at. Then our "Official Kindergarten game" Mario Kart. It was really hard using the motion sensor as you have to gauge how much to turn the Wii-Wheel. -_-
And of course, my favourite game of the night - Wii Sports. We basically played that for the rest of the night. Was hilarious watching them played, especially the boxing game. As for me, I kept playing tennis against Edwin and Yun Zhen... again and again and again. Swing until right arm sore... very fun party game.
Of course, we didn't forget to give the birthday boy a surprise. Heh. Quite stress leh... cause we lit the candles downstairs, and I had to bring it up. Then I had to "protect the flame" from going out while climbing the dark stairs alone... At the same time, must make sure he doesn't see the cake. In the end I had to "hide" behind a wall to wait for the signal... Then he still keep running around... Simi sai...
I don't think he expected it...heh... Hope he enjoyed what we prepared for him. 20 years old liao hor. Don't be so siao all the time.
Food was alright, especially the chicken wings. Otah sucks though. Special thanks to Anthony for being the "main chef" for the night. So...What I do?
Basically...
1) Eat
2) Play Wii
3) Eat
4) Play Wii
5) Rinse and Repeat.
TCSS session. Originally planned to go home at 10+, but play until forget the time. Luckily got Benben to give us a ride home...
I think next time must go again... couldn't get enough of Wii. :P
Sunday, May 11, 2008
Zictionary
1) Siam Lah / 滚啦 / 走开啦
Definition: You just said something ridiculous or something that pisses me
2) 你不会去死
Defintion: You just offered or suggested something ridiculous to me.
3) Simi Sai
Defintion: I just encountered something ridiculous/lame/bizarre.
4) Sibeh Attitude Leh You...
Definition: I think you are acting ridiculous/arrogant.
5) What Toking You?
Definition: You said something ridiculous that I can't understand.
Definition: You just said something ridiculous or something that pisses me
2) 你不会去死
Defintion: You just offered or suggested something ridiculous to me.
3) Simi Sai
Defintion: I just encountered something ridiculous/lame/bizarre.
4) Sibeh Attitude Leh You...
Definition: I think you are acting ridiculous/arrogant.
5) What Toking You?
Definition: You said something ridiculous that I can't understand.
Friday, May 09, 2008
I just want to get away for a while...
Sometimes, I wish I can just escape.
Just run away.
Just ignore everything.
Just get away from reality.
I haven't had a single good rest in the past 2 months. In fact, I haven't got a consecutive 72 hours (3 full days) rest in a long long time.
Which is why I decided to give myself a well deserved break.
Unfortunately, reality keeps coming to haunt me even when I'm away.
Everyday, I got people SMSing me, MSNing me, calling me telling me what and what just happen, who and who did what, how and how something bad happen, why and why I now got more stuffs to worry about...
...
DAMN IT!
...
I just want to be left alone...
I just want to have some peace...
I just want some time for myself...
:(
Just run away.
Just ignore everything.
Just get away from reality.
I haven't had a single good rest in the past 2 months. In fact, I haven't got a consecutive 72 hours (3 full days) rest in a long long time.
Which is why I decided to give myself a well deserved break.
Unfortunately, reality keeps coming to haunt me even when I'm away.
Everyday, I got people SMSing me, MSNing me, calling me telling me what and what just happen, who and who did what, how and how something bad happen, why and why I now got more stuffs to worry about...
...
DAMN IT!
...
I just want to be left alone...
I just want to have some peace...
I just want some time for myself...
:(
Wednesday, May 07, 2008
Graduation - The Night Before The Storm
Yesterday saw the graduation of another 2 students from the Kindergarten. (After retaining 7 years)
It's just another one. I've seen enough of it, and I should be used to it.
But yesterday one felt particularly painful. It just felt different from the previous ones. It felt more "real", more "threatening" and more "deadly".
Don't know why. They say the closer you are to graduation, the happier you be. But it sounds like BS to me at this moment. I think this rule only applies when you're "really really close" to graduation. Otherwise, you will just feel more and more agony with each passing day. Probably have to reach certain point before that rule apply.
...
Yesterday was really a mental and emotional torture, especially after the alumni came back.
Haiz... nothing to say...
Couldn't sleep the whole afternoon.
And guess what.
This is just the "prelude" of things to come. This mental distress is just the night before the storm.
...
...
I really cannot imagine what will happen to me in a month's time.
I need the power of a higher being to tide me through this difficult period...
It's just another one. I've seen enough of it, and I should be used to it.
But yesterday one felt particularly painful. It just felt different from the previous ones. It felt more "real", more "threatening" and more "deadly".
Don't know why. They say the closer you are to graduation, the happier you be. But it sounds like BS to me at this moment. I think this rule only applies when you're "really really close" to graduation. Otherwise, you will just feel more and more agony with each passing day. Probably have to reach certain point before that rule apply.
...
Yesterday was really a mental and emotional torture, especially after the alumni came back.
Haiz... nothing to say...
Couldn't sleep the whole afternoon.
And guess what.
This is just the "prelude" of things to come. This mental distress is just the night before the storm.
...
...
I really cannot imagine what will happen to me in a month's time.
I need the power of a higher being to tide me through this difficult period...
Sunday, May 04, 2008
Legend Of Kay Kingdom V
LEGEND OF KAY KINGDOM V - Tale of Zelda
IMPORTANT NOTE: This story is purely fictitious. Any resemblance to reality (people living or dead, places past or present) is purely coincidental.
View Legend of Kay Kingdom content page.
This is the story about a little boy named Zelda...
Zelda used to be a cheerful, optimistic and carefree person, living every day to the fullest. That is, until the Dark Forces arrived to claim him. They claimed his soul and sealed it in the depths of the abyss... never to be released until the fatal bonds are broken...
He was sent through the "Portal to Netherworld", into a land known as the "Stygian".
When he came around, he found himself on the "Island of Terror". He turned into a pessimist. He seeks to find meaning in life but never did. He became a depressed, lonely and very angry person.
...
3 Years passed...
And on a night shrouded by total darkness, Zelda escaped from the Island.
He sneaked upon a small boat, and make a dash for his life when all the guards were asleep...
He wandered the vast ocean and seas aimlessly for 13 days...
until a huge thunderstorm overturned his vessel...
...
...
He was found swept ashore a beach near "Chef Stables", a tiny tribal village located on the outskirts of Kay Kingdom. He was taken in by the people of Chef, together with 12 other individuals, where he began his brand new journey in life...
...
Little did he know that from this moment onwards, his life would change forever.
...
The "South Pool" village is a place run by powerful chefs. Everyday, the 13 individuals would become "experimentation dishes" for the mighty chefs. They are grilled, fried, steamed and cooked in every possible way...
At that time, the tribal village elder, Chief Kingfisher is constantly traveling back and forth the Capital in order to fund the war. The 7 generals only give tutelage to the commoners about the skills of horse-riding, and could not be bothered with other matters.
As a result, it was a period where the chefs ruled. There was no need for Ninja, no need for Taiji, no need for Illusion. The 13 men became cannon-fodder for anything and everything by default. There was no way they could defend themselves against the chefs...
Among the chefs, 2 were most feared. Their mastery of cookery/chopping were so godlike that they've both attained the title of the "8 Immortals of Kay", also known as the 8 'xian' (八"仙").
The "8 Immortals of Kay" are the most prestigious title awarded to highly skilled pugilists, known as "xian-ners" (thus the name). There is no fixed definition to what is the art of "xian-ning", but it is generally regarded as the level of proficiency in the arts of survival. The more skilled you are in the arts, the higher is your ability to 'xian'.
The 8 Immortals (xian) are the best 'xianners" of all, and their achievements are the envy of every commoners. As young achievers rise and old veterans retire, the ones holding the title of the 8 immortals are different for every era...
These 2 immortals are considered to be the most powerful of their era, and the immortals of the later generations are believed to be at least a class lower than the original immortals.
1. Immortal of Cookery (食仙)
Background: A master chef who spent half his life perfecting the 4 ultimate arts. He is nicknamed "切人不眨眼睛" (Chop without battling his eyelid) for a extremely good reason. Your only chance of survival is to use the art of "Pouring" on him, and pray that he would let you off. He usually keeps to himself, but will leave none alive when he strikes.
Rebirth: 9th Year, 7th Eclipse
Status: 1 of the original 8 Immortals . Specialize in the art of cookery/chopping.
[N] Ninja: LV7
[C] Cookery: LV9
[T] Taiji: LV7
[I] Illusion: LV5
Notable Skills:
[C] 借刀杀人 - Borrows the knife of another to kill his enemy.
[C] 笑里藏刀 - Hides a knife beneath his smile.
[C] 死无全尸 - No carcass, no mercy.
2. Immortal of Darkness (暗仙)
Background: The dark immortal is one of the most feared character in the Chef Village. Using his famous weapon, the "Imperial Knife" bestowed by the heavens, he can cut everything except the dragons. Proficient in all the 4 arts.
Rebirth: 12th Year, 7th Eclipse
Status: 1 of the original 8 Immortals. Specialize in the art of cookery/chopping.
[N] Ninja: LV6
[C] Cookery: LV9
[T] Taiji: LV7
[I] Illusion: LV6
Notable Skills:
[C] 选购材料 - Ability to recognize exceptional good "ingredients".
[C] 煽风点火 - Create a fire out of nothingness, and makes an existing fire even bigger.
[C] 尚方宝刀 - The Imperial Knife from the Emperor lets him cut almost anything.
...
...
And so, the life of these 13 individuals began. Under the tutelage of the 7 Generals and under the experimentation of the chefs. Many many years passed...
...
No one could have foresee this...
foresee that these 13 seemingly unworthy individuals... That they would later be known throughout the entire Kingdom.
That their destiny would be intertwined with the country as they rise to become the "13 Chariots"...
That it would be these 13 people who would see the Kingdom through its most glorious days.
They are the last 13 that will be able to recount to the next generation how prosperous and mighty they once were.
They are the ones who would be around to witness how the Kingdom slowly weaken, gradually decaying, fading into obscurity...
They are the ones who would live on to tell the tale, the legend...
...
The legend of a Fallen Dynasty.
...
The legend of Kay Kingdom.
IMPORTANT NOTE: This story is purely fictitious. Any resemblance to reality (people living or dead, places past or present) is purely coincidental.
View Legend of Kay Kingdom content page.
This is the story about a little boy named Zelda...
Zelda used to be a cheerful, optimistic and carefree person, living every day to the fullest. That is, until the Dark Forces arrived to claim him. They claimed his soul and sealed it in the depths of the abyss... never to be released until the fatal bonds are broken...
He was sent through the "Portal to Netherworld", into a land known as the "Stygian".
When he came around, he found himself on the "Island of Terror". He turned into a pessimist. He seeks to find meaning in life but never did. He became a depressed, lonely and very angry person.
...
3 Years passed...
And on a night shrouded by total darkness, Zelda escaped from the Island.
He sneaked upon a small boat, and make a dash for his life when all the guards were asleep...
He wandered the vast ocean and seas aimlessly for 13 days...
until a huge thunderstorm overturned his vessel...
...
...
He was found swept ashore a beach near "Chef Stables", a tiny tribal village located on the outskirts of Kay Kingdom. He was taken in by the people of Chef, together with 12 other individuals, where he began his brand new journey in life...
...
Little did he know that from this moment onwards, his life would change forever.
...
The "South Pool" village is a place run by powerful chefs. Everyday, the 13 individuals would become "experimentation dishes" for the mighty chefs. They are grilled, fried, steamed and cooked in every possible way...
At that time, the tribal village elder, Chief Kingfisher is constantly traveling back and forth the Capital in order to fund the war. The 7 generals only give tutelage to the commoners about the skills of horse-riding, and could not be bothered with other matters.
As a result, it was a period where the chefs ruled. There was no need for Ninja, no need for Taiji, no need for Illusion. The 13 men became cannon-fodder for anything and everything by default. There was no way they could defend themselves against the chefs...
Among the chefs, 2 were most feared. Their mastery of cookery/chopping were so godlike that they've both attained the title of the "8 Immortals of Kay", also known as the 8 'xian' (八"仙").
The "8 Immortals of Kay" are the most prestigious title awarded to highly skilled pugilists, known as "xian-ners" (thus the name). There is no fixed definition to what is the art of "xian-ning", but it is generally regarded as the level of proficiency in the arts of survival. The more skilled you are in the arts, the higher is your ability to 'xian'.
The 8 Immortals (xian) are the best 'xianners" of all, and their achievements are the envy of every commoners. As young achievers rise and old veterans retire, the ones holding the title of the 8 immortals are different for every era...
These 2 immortals are considered to be the most powerful of their era, and the immortals of the later generations are believed to be at least a class lower than the original immortals.
1. Immortal of Cookery (食仙)
Background: A master chef who spent half his life perfecting the 4 ultimate arts. He is nicknamed "切人不眨眼睛" (Chop without battling his eyelid) for a extremely good reason. Your only chance of survival is to use the art of "Pouring" on him, and pray that he would let you off. He usually keeps to himself, but will leave none alive when he strikes.
Rebirth: 9th Year, 7th Eclipse
Status: 1 of the original 8 Immortals . Specialize in the art of cookery/chopping.
[N] Ninja: LV7
[C] Cookery: LV9
[T] Taiji: LV7
[I] Illusion: LV5
Notable Skills:
[C] 借刀杀人 - Borrows the knife of another to kill his enemy.
[C] 笑里藏刀 - Hides a knife beneath his smile.
[C] 死无全尸 - No carcass, no mercy.
2. Immortal of Darkness (暗仙)
Background: The dark immortal is one of the most feared character in the Chef Village. Using his famous weapon, the "Imperial Knife" bestowed by the heavens, he can cut everything except the dragons. Proficient in all the 4 arts.
Rebirth: 12th Year, 7th Eclipse
Status: 1 of the original 8 Immortals. Specialize in the art of cookery/chopping.
[N] Ninja: LV6
[C] Cookery: LV9
[T] Taiji: LV7
[I] Illusion: LV6
Notable Skills:
[C] 选购材料 - Ability to recognize exceptional good "ingredients".
[C] 煽风点火 - Create a fire out of nothingness, and makes an existing fire even bigger.
[C] 尚方宝刀 - The Imperial Knife from the Emperor lets him cut almost anything.
...
...
And so, the life of these 13 individuals began. Under the tutelage of the 7 Generals and under the experimentation of the chefs. Many many years passed...
...
No one could have foresee this...
foresee that these 13 seemingly unworthy individuals... That they would later be known throughout the entire Kingdom.
That their destiny would be intertwined with the country as they rise to become the "13 Chariots"...
That it would be these 13 people who would see the Kingdom through its most glorious days.
They are the last 13 that will be able to recount to the next generation how prosperous and mighty they once were.
They are the ones who would be around to witness how the Kingdom slowly weaken, gradually decaying, fading into obscurity...
They are the ones who would live on to tell the tale, the legend...
...
The legend of a Fallen Dynasty.
...
The legend of Kay Kingdom.
Friday, May 02, 2008
The Ironman
Went to yet another Kindergarten outing. Seems like quite frequent these days. Haha. Participants includes Benjamin, Geraint, Leon, Karl, Jonathan, Yao Peng, Edwin, Wei Long and Baxter.
Went to Carl's Jr for lunch... first time I dine there actually. Quite expensive, but the food is really plentiful, and free flow drinks are nice. On to the movie!
Let's see, the reviews for it are really good. I'll say it's worth 3.5 stars.
Frankly speaking, I'm not that familiar with all those Marvel Super Heroes. Nevertheless, I still enjoyed this movie a lot.
Summary: Basically, this guy call Tony Stark is an genius inventor and multi-billionaire. During a demonstration, he was captured by the terrorists and imprisoned in a cave, where he is forced to build a missle for them. Instead, he came up with a suit that would be the first version of the Ironman. After he escaped, he continues to modify the model, eventually leading to the final confrontation with the bad guy - his former partner.
The humor is good, the story is not bad, the graphics are great, but the action is slightly lacking. There are some intense moments, like when he sent Pepper to steal the secret data, or when he's in the cave waiting for the power to generate the suit. I especially like the interaction between the protagonist and the "Colonel" guy, simply hilarious. The graphics are exactly what you expect from a movie like this - fancy explosions, lightning flashes, lots of rockets and missiles.
The main disappointment I feel is the ending - too little action. It was supposed to be the peak, the climax, but it doesn't even stand up to the fight at the cave in the beginning.
The finale battle basically goes like - Ironman flies to confront the bad guy with low energy. Bad guy dominates Ironman. Ironman orders Pepper to use the power socket to kill the bad guy.
-_- Very disappointing leh.
There should have been more exchanges between them. You know, like even bigger explosions, even more special effects. Nope. The bad guy got killed in a lame way. That's the single major complaint I have. Alright, and after the credits roll, the director of the S.H.I.E.L.D organization arrives at Stark house...
Sequel?
...
You're right.
I went to look up on it, and...
"Jon Favreau planned Iron Man as the first in a trilogy, and has signed on all the original actors.[10] Paramount chief executive officer Brad Grey expects a 2010 release date."
Went to Carl's Jr for lunch... first time I dine there actually. Quite expensive, but the food is really plentiful, and free flow drinks are nice. On to the movie!
Let's see, the reviews for it are really good. I'll say it's worth 3.5 stars.
Frankly speaking, I'm not that familiar with all those Marvel Super Heroes. Nevertheless, I still enjoyed this movie a lot.
Summary: Basically, this guy call Tony Stark is an genius inventor and multi-billionaire. During a demonstration, he was captured by the terrorists and imprisoned in a cave, where he is forced to build a missle for them. Instead, he came up with a suit that would be the first version of the Ironman. After he escaped, he continues to modify the model, eventually leading to the final confrontation with the bad guy - his former partner.
The humor is good, the story is not bad, the graphics are great, but the action is slightly lacking. There are some intense moments, like when he sent Pepper to steal the secret data, or when he's in the cave waiting for the power to generate the suit. I especially like the interaction between the protagonist and the "Colonel" guy, simply hilarious. The graphics are exactly what you expect from a movie like this - fancy explosions, lightning flashes, lots of rockets and missiles.
The main disappointment I feel is the ending - too little action. It was supposed to be the peak, the climax, but it doesn't even stand up to the fight at the cave in the beginning.
The finale battle basically goes like - Ironman flies to confront the bad guy with low energy. Bad guy dominates Ironman. Ironman orders Pepper to use the power socket to kill the bad guy.
-_- Very disappointing leh.
There should have been more exchanges between them. You know, like even bigger explosions, even more special effects. Nope. The bad guy got killed in a lame way. That's the single major complaint I have. Alright, and after the credits roll, the director of the S.H.I.E.L.D organization arrives at Stark house...
Sequel?
...
You're right.
I went to look up on it, and...
"Jon Favreau planned Iron Man as the first in a trilogy, and has signed on all the original actors.[10] Paramount chief executive officer Brad Grey expects a 2010 release date."
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