In all my topsy-turvy, backsliding years as a "freethinker leaning towards Christianity", i had never imagined myself to believe that prayer could be so powerful. i mean, yes i knew it's essential for a Christian to be engaging in prayer, i just didn't see it with the emphasis that it can and potentially will change lives.
Now that i'm attending church on a regular basis (minus all the times i can't wake up in time/arrive late/still eating breakfast at MacDonald's) and undergoing a course on prayer, it is quite obvious that i've missed out on a big part of this special relationship with our Creator.
Anyone can do it, anywhere, anytime. Such is the simplicity, but yet at the same time it holds utmost importance. Being able to pray for yourself, loved ones and even those who are strangers to you, is the greatest ability to have.
But it's never too late to want to persevere in prayer life.
Lord i ask for Your strength in my prayer life, to lift and empower me.
Sunday, October 12, 2008
Wednesday, October 01, 2008
Brian Littrell - Gone Without Goodbye
Notably the best singer in the Backstreet Boys, Brian never fails to engage his fans with his endearing yet powerful vocals.
Tuesday, September 02, 2008
Friday, March 07, 2008
Sunday, February 17, 2008
DeathNote Spin Off - L Change the WorLd
** Warning: Spoilers **
"No matter how talented you are, you alone cannot change the world.."
L Change the WorLd trailer
As the storyline went in the 2-parter series, L defeated Light in the immense Kira thriller and in the process, signed his own fate into the DeathNote. But no one knew how L spent the last 23 days of his life....... until now.
L was devastated by the death of Watari, his caretaker/butler/nifty sidekick/bodyguard/sniper. But more importantly to the orphan L, Watari was like a father. L sent a message to all the gifted agents raised by Watari, announcing his demise and stating that he will mourn for him.
Ryuk tried to tempt L into keeping the DeathNotes in continued use. However to Ryuk's dismay, L burnt the 2 DeathNotes, bring the Kira chapter to an end. L started to work on the other international cases he had previous postponed due to Kira, and he completed them in 5 days.
Meanwhile in Thailand, a deadly virus epidemic was exterminating a whole village. Blood samples were forcibly collected from the victims, without any intention to help them medically. It was confirmed when a bomb was dropped over the village to totally decimate it.
However, a little boy was the only sole survivor of the epidemic. He, a mathematical genius, was uninfected by the virus. F, an agent stationed in Thailand to investigate a world extermination program, uncovered the boy and rescued him, telling the boy to contact Watari and join up with him.
The blood samples were sent to a research facility in Japan for analysis into producing an antidote for the virus. The chief researcher secretly coded hidden messages, regarding the antidote, into his daughter's, Maki's, homework. His research assistant turned out to be a maniac wanting to change the world by reducing the human population, the destroyers of this ecosystem, through the use of this virus. Coincidentally, this lady researcher was also part of Wammy's House, codenamed K. Betrayed, the chief researcher committed suicide and destroyed whatever trace of the antidote which he produced, as it was vital to K's plan of propagating the virus, but not before he sent his daughter to look for Watari.
So the hunt for the information about the antidote began.
The concluding scene was perhaps the most touching of all. On the final day of his life, L left the boy under the care of his former orphanage, Wammy's House and named him Near before leaving with a smile on his face as he thought of Watari, silently wishing to live longer in this world.
--
My heart goes out to L, putting his life on the line to solve the Kira case and once that was done, he's dragged into another mess; all these while knowing that he didn't have much time to live. That kinda sucked, it's like working right up till the day you die, literally.
A gifted orphan, a recluse, almost a weirdo. But all in a cute way.
Permanently in a slouch position, he squats on chairs with his 2 knees tucked against his chest. He downs sweet stuff like drinking water and i'm quite certain he has diabetes. Though blessed with 5 fingers on each hand, only his thumbs and forefingers are put to use, which makes me wonder what he usually does with the rest. And who can forget L's mask?
Ever so cute
His only friend? Turned out to be Kira, ironically through with his suspicions. His only regarded-relative? Ended up dead.
So imagine the pain he has to endure after losing both. And now that he only has 23 days to live, that just makes things crappier.
His attempts at social human contact with the little boy and the teenage girl can only culminate with him offering a skewer ladened with sweet stuff. You can almost wipe off the pity overflowing from L.
As described by K, "He can't do anything to help you, He's not almighty. He's hopeless when it comes to what his brains can't solve."
But L is not devoid of feelings.
The way he showed empathy to Maki when she was overwhelmed with her father's death.
The way he cared enough for Near to give him a tintoy robot that the boy was fascinated with at a street stall, as well as fruitful advice: "No matter how talented you are, you alone cannot change the world.."
There was a subtle hint of reflection on L's part. The way he might have felt that staking his life on the Kira case was a rash decision which, at that moment, he felt that he didn't have a choice. In his own way, he was trying to change the world, ridding it of Kira, and ultimately causing his own demise.
--
i love the way they personified L's character, to open up this guarded box and unravel the simple complexities behind the great genius.
The glorification of L. :)
Monday, February 11, 2008
Why Men Are Horny
Blame them!
Jessica Alba
Alexandria Ambrosio
Scarlett Johansson
Jessica Biel
Marissa Miller
Adriana Lima
Megan Fox
Kate Beckinsale
Thursday, February 07, 2008
CNY 2008 - The Year of the Mouse
Well, rat just sounds too boorish for me. Mouse cuter lar, ok? They call him Mickey Mouse for a reason.
An almost identical festive period that happens every year - sleeping from the wee hours of #1 at 3am; waking up at 11am and rushing out of the house to go visiting; reaching my paternal aunt's place only to realise that we're among the earliest. it's just like a wedding dinner where no one is early.
i'm surprised this year was much less crowded than before though. Many of my aunts/uncles didn't turn up. Even those who turned up weren't in their complete families. Some people were missing here and there, and i wasn't really interested in knowing where they went anyway. So, erm, there was more food for everyone else. Hooray.
Eat, drink, watch tv,. Rinse and repeat. That was basically what i did throughout the entire 4+ hours stay at the Toa Payoh residence. And oh, a few sentences of chatter with some relatives and the compulsory festive greetings. Hmm, yup, that's about it.
Proceeded to my maternal grandma's place later in the evening. Should have just done that earlier lar, then can play more mahjong. :D We kick-started a few rounds of "dry-swimming" and basically i was trying my best to remember how to play the game. We had $100 worth of chips and by the end of the game, i had lost $17. Not bad for a beginner ba. My grandma won $90+! But of course, play play only lar, so no actual money involved. :p
My maternal grandma's cooking is superb! i'm a sucker for home-cooked food, and none is greater than my popo's. :D~ The way to my heart is through my stomach with home-cooked dishes. ;)
Never really spent quality time with my grandma. The only times we visit were reunion dinners, cny bai-nians and the occasional dinner callovers. Even at my birthday chalet last year when we were supposed to celebrate hers in the afternoon, i was too hungover from the previous night's drinking to have lunch and cut the cake with her. :( So the 2+ hours today was especially heartwarming for me, to talk freely with my grandma, spending time with her and my family. :)
Oh, and of course, the annual red packet haul this year was meagre, since i didn't get to meet all my relatives today. And i'll be working on #2, #3 and #4, so that greatly reduces the chance of getting any more. But i guess my maternal relatives will pass the angbaos to my mum on my behalf, and maybe i'll get a little bit more during the house-to-house visits with my friends. Sigh.
Anyway...
An almost identical festive period that happens every year - sleeping from the wee hours of #1 at 3am; waking up at 11am and rushing out of the house to go visiting; reaching my paternal aunt's place only to realise that we're among the earliest. it's just like a wedding dinner where no one is early.
i'm surprised this year was much less crowded than before though. Many of my aunts/uncles didn't turn up. Even those who turned up weren't in their complete families. Some people were missing here and there, and i wasn't really interested in knowing where they went anyway. So, erm, there was more food for everyone else. Hooray.
Eat, drink, watch tv,. Rinse and repeat. That was basically what i did throughout the entire 4+ hours stay at the Toa Payoh residence. And oh, a few sentences of chatter with some relatives and the compulsory festive greetings. Hmm, yup, that's about it.
Proceeded to my maternal grandma's place later in the evening. Should have just done that earlier lar, then can play more mahjong. :D We kick-started a few rounds of "dry-swimming" and basically i was trying my best to remember how to play the game. We had $100 worth of chips and by the end of the game, i had lost $17. Not bad for a beginner ba. My grandma won $90+! But of course, play play only lar, so no actual money involved. :p
My maternal grandma's cooking is superb! i'm a sucker for home-cooked food, and none is greater than my popo's. :D~ The way to my heart is through my stomach with home-cooked dishes. ;)
Never really spent quality time with my grandma. The only times we visit were reunion dinners, cny bai-nians and the occasional dinner callovers. Even at my birthday chalet last year when we were supposed to celebrate hers in the afternoon, i was too hungover from the previous night's drinking to have lunch and cut the cake with her. :( So the 2+ hours today was especially heartwarming for me, to talk freely with my grandma, spending time with her and my family. :)
Oh, and of course, the annual red packet haul this year was meagre, since i didn't get to meet all my relatives today. And i'll be working on #2, #3 and #4, so that greatly reduces the chance of getting any more. But i guess my maternal relatives will pass the angbaos to my mum on my behalf, and maybe i'll get a little bit more during the house-to-house visits with my friends. Sigh.
Anyway...
Cute Mickey designs - from my parents
2008 red packet hoist from relatives
Saturday, February 02, 2008
Thursday, January 17, 2008
Sunday, January 13, 2008
王力宏 - 此刻 你心里想起谁
Inspired by a schoolgirl working at a convenience store, Wang Lee Hom churns out a melody so melancholy that it strikes deep into the listener's heart.
Wednesday, January 09, 2008
Monday, January 07, 2008
Sadistic Pleasure
i didn't know being this tired could actually feel so.......
good. :)
Well, thanks to my colleagues for pulling me back on track. i was derailing fast, too fast for my knowledge, and it was their timely intervention that shook me awake enough to swerve back on course, just as my energy was waning. Now indebted to their rescue efforts, i'm working on wiping the bad taste away.
That's positive work experience.
Hope to persevere through the hardships to come. *gulp*
good. :)
Well, thanks to my colleagues for pulling me back on track. i was derailing fast, too fast for my knowledge, and it was their timely intervention that shook me awake enough to swerve back on course, just as my energy was waning. Now indebted to their rescue efforts, i'm working on wiping the bad taste away.
That's positive work experience.
Hope to persevere through the hardships to come. *gulp*
Tuesday, January 01, 2008
Huat Huat 2008!
Yes yes, 2008 has successfully been ushered in! Huat ah!
What a way to do it at that! This being the first outdoor countdown for me since many years back, it was a little culture shock for me to be jostling amongst the countdown crowd. City Hall MRT was swarmed with throngs of people; so was CityLink; so was Esplanade; so was One Fullerton. There were heaps of people to fight through just to get to a destination.
Okay, just kidding. i am not legend.
The night's itinerary was worth the wait and certainly didn't disappoint. No amount of description would do justice to the amazing 8-minute pyrotechnic display, or as i called it, "the little streams of hope".
What a way to do it at that! This being the first outdoor countdown for me since many years back, it was a little culture shock for me to be jostling amongst the countdown crowd. City Hall MRT was swarmed with throngs of people; so was CityLink; so was Esplanade; so was One Fullerton. There were heaps of people to fight through just to get to a destination.
The only obstacle to the New Year countdown
Okay, just kidding. i am not legend.
The night's itinerary was worth the wait and certainly didn't disappoint. No amount of description would do justice to the amazing 8-minute pyrotechnic display, or as i called it, "the little streams of hope".
* i shall withhold the fireworks video for the moment. :p *
Monday, December 31, 2007
The Last Day of 2007
And here we go, we've reached the finale of the year 2007. A really juicy period to go through, all 365 days of it. Here's a brief recap:
Final NUS semester / FYP / a breakup / Genting trip with family / last set of examinations at NUS / Genting trip with friends / Japan trip with friends / USA trip with mum, bro, Gerald / resumption of NSF service / graduation ceremony / Transformers craze / ORD lor! / engineer at Natsteel / birthday chalet celebration.
i'm all ready to usher in the new year!
Oh, had a 2.5 hour afternoon off from work today! They are not slave-masters after all! Erm, well, i think. :D
To the Esplanade for fireworks! Huat ah, 2008!
Final NUS semester / FYP / a breakup / Genting trip with family / last set of examinations at NUS / Genting trip with friends / Japan trip with friends / USA trip with mum, bro, Gerald / resumption of NSF service / graduation ceremony / Transformers craze / ORD lor! / engineer at Natsteel / birthday chalet celebration.
i'm all ready to usher in the new year!
Oh, had a 2.5 hour afternoon off from work today! They are not slave-masters after all! Erm, well, i think. :D
To the Esplanade for fireworks! Huat ah, 2008!
Sunday, December 30, 2007
The Champions?
Manchester United.
Our affiliation goes back a long way.
Steve Bruce, Gary Pallister, Denis Irwin, Peter Schmeichel, Mark Hughes, Andrei Kanchelskis, Eric Cantona, Paul Ince, Roy Keane, Andy Cole, Dwight Yorke, Jaap Stam, David Beckham.
i can just picture the former Red Devils laughing last night, at the sheer stupidity of the present team.
if Hayden Mullins hadn't struck the crossbar; and with an inviting 2nd attempt, Mark Noble hadn't skied his shot at an empty Man Utd goal, West Ham could have gone 1-0 up within the 1st 10 minutes of play.
Well, credit to the Devils for shrugging off that early scare to launch a quick offensive as Ryan Giggs was released early on the left wing in the 14th minute. The Welsh wizard zipped along the flank and whipped in a low curling cross to the near post. The ball eluded Carlos Tevez but Cristiano Ronaldo was up to the task, heading the ball home from close range, giving Robert Green no chance.
Tomasz Kuszczak denied Nolberto Solano a spectacular goal as the Man Utd custodian beat the dipping shot over the bar just in time at 36 minutes. In the closing seconds of the 1st half, Ronaldo tried to light up the otherwise already boring gameplay by letting loose a scintillating shot that flashed past Green's near post and wrecked a camera by the touchlines. Ouch.
West Ham started the 2nd half with confidence and got into an attacking rhythm. Man Utd however, seemed to be enjoying the 1 goal lead. Foolish. Utterly foolish.
The turning point of the match came in the 68th minute. Ex-Man Utd defender Jonathan Spector mistimed a floating cross into the West Ham penalty area and handled the ball as he totally missed the header.
"Penalty!" roared the Man Utd crowd, jubilant of the opportunity to double the lead, with expert spot kick taker Ronaldo a likely prospect to increase his impressive double-digit goal tally.
Much to the horror of the crowd, fans all over the world watching on cable, and albeit Alex Ferguson, Ronaldo skewed his shot wide.
Dean Ashton was introduced almost immediately at 70 minutes to boost West Ham's attack after Man Utd's demoralising penalty miss.
7 minutes later, Noble turned from zero to hero as he provided the perfectly weighted corner for substitute Anton Ferdinand to drill a header home at the far post, his 1st in 2 years. Now why wasn't anyone covering the Man Utd far post? Even if Kuszczak had reacted late to the header, a defender stationed at the far post could have hacked the ball off the line. Rio Ferdinand wasn't particularly pleased.
Shaken awake, Man Utd tried to launch an offensive to salvage this game, to preserve their 100% EPL win record in December 2007 and to head into the New Year at the top of the table. Nani was thrown on at the expense of defensive midfielder Owen Hargreaves to bolster the strikeforce. Even attacking talents like Anderson, Ronaldo, Giggs and Louis Saha had to take a backseat as Man Utd failed to score again. Wayne Rooney was truly missed.
The nail in the coffin came in the 82nd minute, as Man Utd gave away yet another needless setpiece. The freekick was floated in deliciously and Matthew Upson was the hungrier of the lot, rising well above the entire defence to place a delicate header out of Kuszczak's reach and into the top corner. This time, absolutely no one was covering either posts.
That was Upson's 1st career goal for West Ham. Scorers against Man Utd always seemed to break some record or the other.
Tried as they might, Man Utd couldn't change the game in their favour as the game ended 1-2 in favour of the Hammers.
Chelsea survived Newcastle 2-1; Arsenal mustered a great comeback to finish 4-1 against Everton; Tottenham overpowered Reading 6-4.
Ditto.
Ferguson's decision to rest Rooney was acceptable. But having praised Park Ji Sung in the Sunderland game, he played Darren Fletcher in the midfield instead. The odd pairing caused Hargreaves to be confused the entire game. Park could have been utilized to run the West Ham midfield ragged as Hargreaves marshalled the area in front of the back 4. The presence of Fletcher just unsettled the whole team.
Not that Tevez had any contribution to the game either. Although he was running around the pitch all day long, he couldn't produce anything for his side. A total waste of his work rate.
And Ferguson should sell Wes Brown as soon as Tottenham come for him. it's like a heaven-sent to get a bummer off the payroll to a willing buyer.
Last season, West Ham punished Man Utd both home and away in the league. Looks like it's history repeating itself.
And no prizes for guessing which Ferdinand went home the happier brother.
Our affiliation goes back a long way.
Steve Bruce, Gary Pallister, Denis Irwin, Peter Schmeichel, Mark Hughes, Andrei Kanchelskis, Eric Cantona, Paul Ince, Roy Keane, Andy Cole, Dwight Yorke, Jaap Stam, David Beckham.
i can just picture the former Red Devils laughing last night, at the sheer stupidity of the present team.
if Hayden Mullins hadn't struck the crossbar; and with an inviting 2nd attempt, Mark Noble hadn't skied his shot at an empty Man Utd goal, West Ham could have gone 1-0 up within the 1st 10 minutes of play.
Well, credit to the Devils for shrugging off that early scare to launch a quick offensive as Ryan Giggs was released early on the left wing in the 14th minute. The Welsh wizard zipped along the flank and whipped in a low curling cross to the near post. The ball eluded Carlos Tevez but Cristiano Ronaldo was up to the task, heading the ball home from close range, giving Robert Green no chance.
Tomasz Kuszczak denied Nolberto Solano a spectacular goal as the Man Utd custodian beat the dipping shot over the bar just in time at 36 minutes. In the closing seconds of the 1st half, Ronaldo tried to light up the otherwise already boring gameplay by letting loose a scintillating shot that flashed past Green's near post and wrecked a camera by the touchlines. Ouch.
West Ham started the 2nd half with confidence and got into an attacking rhythm. Man Utd however, seemed to be enjoying the 1 goal lead. Foolish. Utterly foolish.
The turning point of the match came in the 68th minute. Ex-Man Utd defender Jonathan Spector mistimed a floating cross into the West Ham penalty area and handled the ball as he totally missed the header.
"Penalty!" roared the Man Utd crowd, jubilant of the opportunity to double the lead, with expert spot kick taker Ronaldo a likely prospect to increase his impressive double-digit goal tally.
Much to the horror of the crowd, fans all over the world watching on cable, and albeit Alex Ferguson, Ronaldo skewed his shot wide.
Dean Ashton was introduced almost immediately at 70 minutes to boost West Ham's attack after Man Utd's demoralising penalty miss.
7 minutes later, Noble turned from zero to hero as he provided the perfectly weighted corner for substitute Anton Ferdinand to drill a header home at the far post, his 1st in 2 years. Now why wasn't anyone covering the Man Utd far post? Even if Kuszczak had reacted late to the header, a defender stationed at the far post could have hacked the ball off the line. Rio Ferdinand wasn't particularly pleased.
Shaken awake, Man Utd tried to launch an offensive to salvage this game, to preserve their 100% EPL win record in December 2007 and to head into the New Year at the top of the table. Nani was thrown on at the expense of defensive midfielder Owen Hargreaves to bolster the strikeforce. Even attacking talents like Anderson, Ronaldo, Giggs and Louis Saha had to take a backseat as Man Utd failed to score again. Wayne Rooney was truly missed.
The nail in the coffin came in the 82nd minute, as Man Utd gave away yet another needless setpiece. The freekick was floated in deliciously and Matthew Upson was the hungrier of the lot, rising well above the entire defence to place a delicate header out of Kuszczak's reach and into the top corner. This time, absolutely no one was covering either posts.
That was Upson's 1st career goal for West Ham. Scorers against Man Utd always seemed to break some record or the other.
Tried as they might, Man Utd couldn't change the game in their favour as the game ended 1-2 in favour of the Hammers.
Chelsea survived Newcastle 2-1; Arsenal mustered a great comeback to finish 4-1 against Everton; Tottenham overpowered Reading 6-4.
Ditto.
Ferguson's decision to rest Rooney was acceptable. But having praised Park Ji Sung in the Sunderland game, he played Darren Fletcher in the midfield instead. The odd pairing caused Hargreaves to be confused the entire game. Park could have been utilized to run the West Ham midfield ragged as Hargreaves marshalled the area in front of the back 4. The presence of Fletcher just unsettled the whole team.
Not that Tevez had any contribution to the game either. Although he was running around the pitch all day long, he couldn't produce anything for his side. A total waste of his work rate.
And Ferguson should sell Wes Brown as soon as Tottenham come for him. it's like a heaven-sent to get a bummer off the payroll to a willing buyer.
Last season, West Ham punished Man Utd both home and away in the league. Looks like it's history repeating itself.
And no prizes for guessing which Ferdinand went home the happier brother.
Monday, December 24, 2007
Xmas Eve 2007
The 24th of December is special to me. Many will remember it as Christmas Eve, the eve of Christ's birth; the eve of the day where many many unexplained presents will fall into the chimney and into hung socks, ready to ripped open the next day.
If you have not already known, it is also my birthday lar. :D
1st up, i'll like to thank all those who made my birthday celebration a memorable one. it's a long time since i've had an actual celebration with family, close buddies and other friends. Kudos to the following people (in no particular order):
P/S: Thanks for the presents as well!
If you have not already known, it is also my birthday lar. :D
1st up, i'll like to thank all those who made my birthday celebration a memorable one. it's a long time since i've had an actual celebration with family, close buddies and other friends. Kudos to the following people (in no particular order):
- my family (dad, mum, bro, grandma, 3rd uncle, 3rd aunt, 2 cute cousins)
- gerald
- dawn
- daizhong
- marcus
- zhiheng
- jonathan tay
- jonathan ho
- desmond
- nicky
- alvin loh
- carolyn
- michelle
- ariel
- my bro's 2 friends
- lyon
- melvin & gf
- weiqiang
- jimmy
- kevin
- eugene
- weelong
- johan
- huiyang
- steven
P/S: Thanks for the presents as well!
Monday, December 17, 2007
Me and the Chipmunks
Me: "Hi, i reserved a copy of the Alvin and the Chipmunks soundtrack."
Female Cashier: "Okay. What is your name?"
Me: "Alvin."
*weird stare*
-.-
Of course, this is in tandem with the launch of the Chipmunks movie. Have you watched it yet?
If you haven't heard of the Chipmunks, you probably live in Mars or something. Well, the combination is just killer. Small, furry, cute, and they sing.
But don't expect too much either. The relatively more familiar 2nd cartoon series in 1983 (just a little history) didn't really boast of a fantastic storyline or cool animations. Well, i said it was in the '80s didn't i? Anyway, the idea of talking chipmunks in the family was such a kick back then.
So this big screen adaptation is just a nostalgic blast to the past, to reminisce about the joker Alvin, the intellectual Simon, and the sweety Theodore. The movie got a little boring midway, but the overall cute factor should pull it through just enough.
Who can ever forget the ear-piercing, tonsil-wrecking "ALLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLVIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIINNNNNNNNNNNNNNN!!"
Well i can't. ;)
Female Cashier: "Okay. What is your name?"
Me: "Alvin."
*weird stare*
-.-
THE soundtrack
Of course, this is in tandem with the launch of the Chipmunks movie. Have you watched it yet?
THE movie
If you haven't heard of the Chipmunks, you probably live in Mars or something. Well, the combination is just killer. Small, furry, cute, and they sing.
But don't expect too much either. The relatively more familiar 2nd cartoon series in 1983 (just a little history) didn't really boast of a fantastic storyline or cool animations. Well, i said it was in the '80s didn't i? Anyway, the idea of talking chipmunks in the family was such a kick back then.
So this big screen adaptation is just a nostalgic blast to the past, to reminisce about the joker Alvin, the intellectual Simon, and the sweety Theodore. The movie got a little boring midway, but the overall cute factor should pull it through just enough.
Who can ever forget the ear-piercing, tonsil-wrecking "ALLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLVIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIINNNNNNNNNNNNNNN!!"
Well i can't. ;)
2007
1983 - 1990
Wednesday, December 05, 2007
The Crying Heavens
The honeymoon period is over.
Can anticipate my workload piling for the next 2 months. My boss came to my desk this morning to finalise my induction programme by stating my responsibilities and work targets. Wee. Busy busy soon.
At least after 2.5 weeks, i finally have some sort of a grasp of what's going on in the office and the plant. But of course, still have to surf the learning curve as for now. Hope by the time projects start flying in, i'll be well-versed in the dealings of my work.
The TF Classics kid bailed on me again. Sigh. But at least he's willing to meet at my convenience to cover his guilt. Anyhow, that'll mean i'll have lots of transformers coming in this weekend. Wee!
And it rained the whole day today. Shiok for sleeping later. :D
Can anticipate my workload piling for the next 2 months. My boss came to my desk this morning to finalise my induction programme by stating my responsibilities and work targets. Wee. Busy busy soon.
At least after 2.5 weeks, i finally have some sort of a grasp of what's going on in the office and the plant. But of course, still have to surf the learning curve as for now. Hope by the time projects start flying in, i'll be well-versed in the dealings of my work.
The TF Classics kid bailed on me again. Sigh. But at least he's willing to meet at my convenience to cover his guilt. Anyhow, that'll mean i'll have lots of transformers coming in this weekend. Wee!
And it rained the whole day today. Shiok for sleeping later. :D
Sunday, December 02, 2007
Standard Chartered Marathon
i survived 10km!
Hadn't run in ages lar. The last time i ran was somewhere in end September and it was only 5km. i almost died then.
So it came as a complete surprise that i completed the 10km event without stopping. Though my timing of about 62minutes wasn't exactly anything to be proud of, i was comfortable to know that i almost did it under an hour. :)
On to the 21km half marathon next year. :D
Hadn't run in ages lar. The last time i ran was somewhere in end September and it was only 5km. i almost died then.
So it came as a complete surprise that i completed the 10km event without stopping. Though my timing of about 62minutes wasn't exactly anything to be proud of, i was comfortable to know that i almost did it under an hour. :)
On to the 21km half marathon next year. :D
Tag & Completion Medal
Saturday, December 01, 2007
Transformers Classics
i've something for the classics. Call it nostalgia. I've watched Transformers cartoons since a little boy and it's nice to see these big boys again. :D They are so pretty!
These are the following 9 robots that I have (or for some of them from Jetfire onwards, going to have). I predict more to come, though it may be a little hurting on my poor wallet.
Optimus PrimeThese are the following 9 robots that I have (or for some of them from Jetfire onwards, going to have). I predict more to come, though it may be a little hurting on my poor wallet.
Ultra Magnus
Jetfire
Bumblebee
Cliffjumper
Rodimus
Grimlock
Astrotrain
Starscream
Monday, November 19, 2007
Friday, November 16, 2007
ORD lo!
The long awaited day has arrived! Though officially it's tomorrow, but it being a Saturday means i get my pink ic returned today! Trust me, it isn't easy surrendering your pink ic twice. it gets kinda emotional.
i'm sure the hoo-ha will kick off soon, but i'll enjoy it while it lasts. :D
i'm sure the hoo-ha will kick off soon, but i'll enjoy it while it lasts. :D
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
Act 1 Chapter 3 : Reckless
Word had it that the recent Loki dispatch to Visgaard consisted several high ranking mages. Grimthan's orders were to ambush any surviving Loki returning from the Visgaardi battlefields. Their heads were considered a vital advantage if Artemia was ever to go to war with Hyunea. However, to his delight, the patient wait yielded unexpected prey of much more value. He could see himself returning to the Artemian king with the prized skulls of the Zol'Nirs, claiming his reward in slabs of gold. The monetary incentive was all he needed as motivation.
"Hold, hold...", Grimthan coaxed the trap bearer, a shivering figure barely a man, dressed in oversized armour, hands trembling as he fought the urge of losing his composure to total fear, to be in control of the deadfall activating mechanism. Grimthan glanced at him, merely a boy, and his conscience screamed at him again for dragging innocent lives into his endeavours. But he did not have a choice, his people and so was he, were bounded to the king of Artemia as mercenaries who desperately needed a source of income. In Artemia, where necessities could only be found within the walls of the kingdom, there was no other option than to offer their services for survival.
All these years as leader of the Groth mercenary had hardened Grimthan's penitence, as he shut his eyes momentarily to erase all feelings of compunction. When he reopened them, they were burning with the initial intensity and determination to complete the task ahead. For the sake of his people, for the survival of his kin, he must continue in this seemingly endless journey of forsaking contrition.
"Hold... hold.............. now!" Grimthan yanked the noose and a hidden vine cracked into view from its state of near invisibility to rear itself like an enraged viper eager to capitalise on the surprise factor for the kill. Almost at the same time, the boy pulled at the tree branch. A loud dry crack echoed through the forest as thick logs fell from the canopy along the two sides of the entangling vine. The vine caught between the legs of the fourth mare, sending both rider and animal crashing to the dusty path clumsily. The second, third and fifth Zol'Nir fell under the weight of the heavy entrapment.
If there was anything of value throughout his service in the mercenary, it was the gleaming battle experience that Grimthan was proud of. To bestow ultimate chaos and confusion to a battalion travelling on a narrow path, disruption had to be dispatched through the middle of the contingent. This way, the leading half would be separated from the trailing half. The ambush would be completed by completely surrounding and eradicating the remaining disrrayed units.
Grimthan led the assault, emerging from his obscure hiding, brandishing his scimitar. Suddenly the forest is alive with the Groth legion abandoning their camouflage and charging into battle. The remaining standing Zol'Nir released a ear-piercing shriek as their mares reared around wildly in the confusion, kicking aimlessly at the intruders. "Aim for the horses' legs!" Grimthan ordered, as he swung his scimitar at the nearest equine, cleaving the leg cleanly at the joint, blood splattering over his armour. The beast howled and crashed into a thrashing heap, dislodging its rider onto the ground. The Groth resounded their leader's warcry and swarmed the remaining two horses.
A zealous Groth warrior leapt onto one of the fallen Zol'Nir, a smirk growing across his face as he inverted his grip on his weapon, raised his sword and plunged it deep into the heart. A deafening shrill escaped from the human and he clambered backwards unsteadily clutching his face. The wound in the Zol'Nir was spraying a greenish-looking liquid. The Groth legion stopped dead in its tracks and witnessed the horrific torment inflicted on one of their kind. What was once eyes turned into gaping blood-pouring holes. Flaks of armour were already starting to dissolve and thin wisps of acidic vapour rose from areas eaten by the decay. Some enraged Groth rushed forward to avenge their comrade but ended in the same fate.
Fear gripped the assailants hard. Grimthan could not believe what he saw when scores of his men fell to the terrible mutilations to their bodies. "Hold!" He had to reorganise his men to avoid any unnecessary losses. His impression of the Zol'Nirs, gathered from hearsay spreading in taverns across Artemia, was that they were corrupt mages hung for their tyranny but resurrected by their own desecrated lifeforce. Through the resurrection, they preserved every physical aspect of the human body but sacrificed the heads as an offering to the devil, leaving behind skulls to do the bidding of the Dark One. The only way to kill them, based on anecdotal rumours, was to plunge a weapon into their still-human heart. But why isn't that Zol'Nir dead?
The commotion gave the remaining Zol'Nirs, under the deadfall, time to dislodge themselves from the mess. Their orange eyes flared within the sockets of the skulls, anger seething like a bubbling cauldron. One of them raised a hand and muttered an undecipherable incantation. The bracelet wrapped tightly around its wrist started to glow pale green. The Groth was entranced by the artistry, partially eager to behold their first glimpse of magic and partially clamped by horror, totally rooted to the ground.
The pale green started to radiate frenziedly and streaks of purple maleficence surged from its fingertips, engulfing the Groth frontlines. Living flesh started to burn in a sick, unextinguishable purple flame. The affected humans writhed in agony silently, as their tongues were also caught in the combustion. Within a few minutes all that remained of the victims were charred skeletal corpses, still kindling with a purple aura, and their armour and clothing were unaffected by the gruesome scorching. Grimthan's eyes grew wide in surprise, terror, disgust and discomposure.
"Re.. retreat!" The bellowing was quavering and the orders given was stung with a tinge of panic. Suddenly the invasive horde was reduced to a whimpering bunch of cowards scampering for dear lives. But none could blame them for the second Zol'Nir had raised its hand by now, a shiny black ring shimmering with malice.
"Hold, hold...", Grimthan coaxed the trap bearer, a shivering figure barely a man, dressed in oversized armour, hands trembling as he fought the urge of losing his composure to total fear, to be in control of the deadfall activating mechanism. Grimthan glanced at him, merely a boy, and his conscience screamed at him again for dragging innocent lives into his endeavours. But he did not have a choice, his people and so was he, were bounded to the king of Artemia as mercenaries who desperately needed a source of income. In Artemia, where necessities could only be found within the walls of the kingdom, there was no other option than to offer their services for survival.
All these years as leader of the Groth mercenary had hardened Grimthan's penitence, as he shut his eyes momentarily to erase all feelings of compunction. When he reopened them, they were burning with the initial intensity and determination to complete the task ahead. For the sake of his people, for the survival of his kin, he must continue in this seemingly endless journey of forsaking contrition.
"Hold... hold.............. now!" Grimthan yanked the noose and a hidden vine cracked into view from its state of near invisibility to rear itself like an enraged viper eager to capitalise on the surprise factor for the kill. Almost at the same time, the boy pulled at the tree branch. A loud dry crack echoed through the forest as thick logs fell from the canopy along the two sides of the entangling vine. The vine caught between the legs of the fourth mare, sending both rider and animal crashing to the dusty path clumsily. The second, third and fifth Zol'Nir fell under the weight of the heavy entrapment.
If there was anything of value throughout his service in the mercenary, it was the gleaming battle experience that Grimthan was proud of. To bestow ultimate chaos and confusion to a battalion travelling on a narrow path, disruption had to be dispatched through the middle of the contingent. This way, the leading half would be separated from the trailing half. The ambush would be completed by completely surrounding and eradicating the remaining disrrayed units.
Grimthan led the assault, emerging from his obscure hiding, brandishing his scimitar. Suddenly the forest is alive with the Groth legion abandoning their camouflage and charging into battle. The remaining standing Zol'Nir released a ear-piercing shriek as their mares reared around wildly in the confusion, kicking aimlessly at the intruders. "Aim for the horses' legs!" Grimthan ordered, as he swung his scimitar at the nearest equine, cleaving the leg cleanly at the joint, blood splattering over his armour. The beast howled and crashed into a thrashing heap, dislodging its rider onto the ground. The Groth resounded their leader's warcry and swarmed the remaining two horses.
A zealous Groth warrior leapt onto one of the fallen Zol'Nir, a smirk growing across his face as he inverted his grip on his weapon, raised his sword and plunged it deep into the heart. A deafening shrill escaped from the human and he clambered backwards unsteadily clutching his face. The wound in the Zol'Nir was spraying a greenish-looking liquid. The Groth legion stopped dead in its tracks and witnessed the horrific torment inflicted on one of their kind. What was once eyes turned into gaping blood-pouring holes. Flaks of armour were already starting to dissolve and thin wisps of acidic vapour rose from areas eaten by the decay. Some enraged Groth rushed forward to avenge their comrade but ended in the same fate.
Fear gripped the assailants hard. Grimthan could not believe what he saw when scores of his men fell to the terrible mutilations to their bodies. "Hold!" He had to reorganise his men to avoid any unnecessary losses. His impression of the Zol'Nirs, gathered from hearsay spreading in taverns across Artemia, was that they were corrupt mages hung for their tyranny but resurrected by their own desecrated lifeforce. Through the resurrection, they preserved every physical aspect of the human body but sacrificed the heads as an offering to the devil, leaving behind skulls to do the bidding of the Dark One. The only way to kill them, based on anecdotal rumours, was to plunge a weapon into their still-human heart. But why isn't that Zol'Nir dead?
The commotion gave the remaining Zol'Nirs, under the deadfall, time to dislodge themselves from the mess. Their orange eyes flared within the sockets of the skulls, anger seething like a bubbling cauldron. One of them raised a hand and muttered an undecipherable incantation. The bracelet wrapped tightly around its wrist started to glow pale green. The Groth was entranced by the artistry, partially eager to behold their first glimpse of magic and partially clamped by horror, totally rooted to the ground.
The pale green started to radiate frenziedly and streaks of purple maleficence surged from its fingertips, engulfing the Groth frontlines. Living flesh started to burn in a sick, unextinguishable purple flame. The affected humans writhed in agony silently, as their tongues were also caught in the combustion. Within a few minutes all that remained of the victims were charred skeletal corpses, still kindling with a purple aura, and their armour and clothing were unaffected by the gruesome scorching. Grimthan's eyes grew wide in surprise, terror, disgust and discomposure.
"Re.. retreat!" The bellowing was quavering and the orders given was stung with a tinge of panic. Suddenly the invasive horde was reduced to a whimpering bunch of cowards scampering for dear lives. But none could blame them for the second Zol'Nir had raised its hand by now, a shiny black ring shimmering with malice.
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
The 'Status' Game
So, guys, what do you do when you're single?
Splurge money on yourself for once? Drink as much beer as you want? Smoke as many cigarettes as you please? Fart audibly in public and laugh about it? Hang out with your buddies? While ogling at pretty girls? Or at their bosoms? Or at their legs? Or at their asses? Or at their beautiful, kind, understanding, wholesome character?
Please note that you can still engage in the above even when you're attached, though the consequences will be dire.
However, there will exist some poor lonesome souls who dread singlehood so badly that they will do their utmost to raise their 'status' to the next level. To these people, i have some godly advice for you > Go read a girl's blog. More often than not, you'll receive invaluable information on how to impress a female; to press her emotional buttons correctly; to fix her pipes; to tickle her funny bone; and anything to get your hands in her pants or her into bed with you. The lessons roll from one to a hundred, and it's all free!
But what strikes me as really outstandingly impressive, is to get a female so smitten by you she'll be delving her hands down your pants instead, without you doing anything. Speaking of which, i have a personal experience.....
Was browsing the footwear at Bata just this evening when i spotted some nice looking slippers. Stepping nearer for a closer look, i realised to my dismay that the cutting was for females. Standing not so far away was a babe who was strolling in my direction, smiling. i glanced at her and stepped aside to let her pass. My movements caught her eye and she gazed at me momentarily. She pursed her lips and grabbed at my groin.
..........
Paraphrase: A little girl (approximately 1-2 years old) walking near the slipper rack was delighted to be able to roam around by herself and she bumbled about gleefully, obviously very pleased that she could manage this feat. A sudden movement from a stranger nearby distracted her and she lost her balance momentarily, stepping on the lowest board of the rack. Her lips twisted in an effort to let out a yelp and reached out to grab the very first thing that could somehow regain her balance.
And it was my balls.
Splurge money on yourself for once? Drink as much beer as you want? Smoke as many cigarettes as you please? Fart audibly in public and laugh about it? Hang out with your buddies? While ogling at pretty girls? Or at their bosoms? Or at their legs? Or at their asses? Or at their beautiful, kind, understanding, wholesome character?
Please note that you can still engage in the above even when you're attached, though the consequences will be dire.
However, there will exist some poor lonesome souls who dread singlehood so badly that they will do their utmost to raise their 'status' to the next level. To these people, i have some godly advice for you > Go read a girl's blog. More often than not, you'll receive invaluable information on how to impress a female; to press her emotional buttons correctly; to fix her pipes; to tickle her funny bone; and anything to get your hands in her pants or her into bed with you. The lessons roll from one to a hundred, and it's all free!
But what strikes me as really outstandingly impressive, is to get a female so smitten by you she'll be delving her hands down your pants instead, without you doing anything. Speaking of which, i have a personal experience.....
Was browsing the footwear at Bata just this evening when i spotted some nice looking slippers. Stepping nearer for a closer look, i realised to my dismay that the cutting was for females. Standing not so far away was a babe who was strolling in my direction, smiling. i glanced at her and stepped aside to let her pass. My movements caught her eye and she gazed at me momentarily. She pursed her lips and grabbed at my groin.
..........
Paraphrase: A little girl (approximately 1-2 years old) walking near the slipper rack was delighted to be able to roam around by herself and she bumbled about gleefully, obviously very pleased that she could manage this feat. A sudden movement from a stranger nearby distracted her and she lost her balance momentarily, stepping on the lowest board of the rack. Her lips twisted in an effort to let out a yelp and reached out to grab the very first thing that could somehow regain her balance.
And it was my balls.
Monday, October 15, 2007
Pulau Pawai Addiction
Sorry for the 2-week absence. Was, well, busy with doing shift duty on the little resort island off the southern-west coast of Singapore. 3 weekend shifts in the past month, really no joke, considering that i could have been leisurely lazing around at home looking for a job. And it really didn't help that i had to reschedule a job interview because of the duty.
No choice i guess, the nation comes 1st, our livelihood doesn't really matter to those bastards who sell their lives for the metal rice bowl.
Well, being away for 3 weekends, the only respite i can think of is that there's lots of anime to catch up on! *slurp* i still miss those days when i finished 120++ episodes of Bleach in 8 days.
1 more weekend to burn and it's time to ORD! Waited 6 bloody years for it. Can't be any sweeter. Over and out!
No choice i guess, the nation comes 1st, our livelihood doesn't really matter to those bastards who sell their lives for the metal rice bowl.
Well, being away for 3 weekends, the only respite i can think of is that there's lots of anime to catch up on! *slurp* i still miss those days when i finished 120++ episodes of Bleach in 8 days.
1 more weekend to burn and it's time to ORD! Waited 6 bloody years for it. Can't be any sweeter. Over and out!
Monday, October 01, 2007
Act 1 Chapter 2: Evil Lurks
A zephyr breezed through the forest, gently caressing each tree like a lustful lover, rustling the leaves from their lazy afternoon slumber. The periodic sashaying of the foliage was in rhythmic tandem to the enthusiastic chirping and gurgling of the mynahs roosting within the greenery. At the edge of the woods ran the meandering Osiris, a river that separated the jungles of Artemia from the barren wastelands of Visgaard. it was not a very deep river, one of which a normal person could wade comfortably, at its deepest, through to the other side. However, as the progress was made from one bank to another, the vast difference in the conditions would startle even the most settled. Crystal clear the waters might be at the Artemian border, but the gradual contamination was a stark visual across the full thirty-odd metres of the water body. Swirls of debris formed mini maelstroms streaking into the depths of the murky waters at the equidistant. Furthering into the watery Visgaardi territory uncovered activated sludge with a heavy growth of visible organisms that resulted from vigorous aeration due the whirlpooling at the centre. The stench of death and decay reeked from these parts of the waters and the tell-tale signs were for all to see: rotting bloated fish floating along in the flow of the river; and featherless carcasses, believed to be stripped of their protective fluff by the venomous fumes steaming off the water surface, of mynahs that were brave enough to venture that far.
In truth, the mystery lay in the stupefying enigma of the disparity between the two scenarios co-existing with such chilling harmony.
The calm Osiris atmosphere was suddenly disturbed by a cacophony of screeches as the mynahs took flight with such haste that it seemed like a swarm of locusts raiding a maize field. The vermillion orb of radiance in the mid-day sky became partially shrouded in the scattered flock movement. Seven mares thundered across the river and started up the banks of Artemia. The ebony-furred bodies of the beasts-of-burden shone like polished obsidians as the blemish of the water-coating diffused the light rays. Muscles rippled as the hoofed legs strained to bring both riders and equines up the grassy edge.
Now the forest fell deadly silent, as though all the insects and animals were fore-warned about the impending evil. Reining the animals in, the horsemen stared beyond the dirt path made shady by the canopy, eyes burning bright orange from the sockets of their skeletal frames. Their bodies were bulked and built like burly warriors, totally mismatching with skulls as heads. The dull-gray drapery, with strange insignias, that hung tightly against them were tattered and lacerated with gaping tears, stretched to the limit of the fabric. Through these porous exits bubbled caustic decomposing flesh as the revolting semi-liquid dribbled down the sides of the cadaverous bodies onto the grass below, desecrating the very sanctity of the greenery. The nauseating pungent odour reeked even sharper than the Osiris, piercing the air with its malignancy.
"Zol'Nirs!", a hushed hiss escaped the slightly parted lips of the entrenched militant leader, the grip on his scimitar tightened with partial fear and partial adrenalin-rush.
His legion awaited his command with abated breaths.
In truth, the mystery lay in the stupefying enigma of the disparity between the two scenarios co-existing with such chilling harmony.
The calm Osiris atmosphere was suddenly disturbed by a cacophony of screeches as the mynahs took flight with such haste that it seemed like a swarm of locusts raiding a maize field. The vermillion orb of radiance in the mid-day sky became partially shrouded in the scattered flock movement. Seven mares thundered across the river and started up the banks of Artemia. The ebony-furred bodies of the beasts-of-burden shone like polished obsidians as the blemish of the water-coating diffused the light rays. Muscles rippled as the hoofed legs strained to bring both riders and equines up the grassy edge.
Now the forest fell deadly silent, as though all the insects and animals were fore-warned about the impending evil. Reining the animals in, the horsemen stared beyond the dirt path made shady by the canopy, eyes burning bright orange from the sockets of their skeletal frames. Their bodies were bulked and built like burly warriors, totally mismatching with skulls as heads. The dull-gray drapery, with strange insignias, that hung tightly against them were tattered and lacerated with gaping tears, stretched to the limit of the fabric. Through these porous exits bubbled caustic decomposing flesh as the revolting semi-liquid dribbled down the sides of the cadaverous bodies onto the grass below, desecrating the very sanctity of the greenery. The nauseating pungent odour reeked even sharper than the Osiris, piercing the air with its malignancy.
"Zol'Nirs!", a hushed hiss escaped the slightly parted lips of the entrenched militant leader, the grip on his scimitar tightened with partial fear and partial adrenalin-rush.
His legion awaited his command with abated breaths.
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
I Now Pronounce You Chuck and Larry
WARNING! MIGHT CONTAIN SPOILERS!Trailer
Plot
Chuck Levine (played by Adam Sandler) and Larry Valentine (played by Kevin James) are best buddies and two of the best firefighters in New York. After a life-threatening situation in the line of duty, Larry realises that he should start taking precautions for his two children in case he dies in some firefighting mishap. However, he faces a problem around the pension system when he tries to rename his children as his beneficiaries. Facing this circumstance, Larry comes up with a crazy idea to go into domestic partnership with Chuck to beat the pension procedures. Chuck, being a playboy, is reluctant but because Larry saved his life previously, he agrees to the arrangement. They get legally married in Canada to the witness of a Japanese church minister (played by Rob Schneider) so that they can dodge fraud investigators. Going the extra mile, they also engage the services of a beautiful lawyer (played by Jessica Biel) to help in the legal details.
Review
You can almost associate an Adam Sandler movie to something that borders on sexual, racial, political and situational stereotyping. This is no exception, especially with the homosexual theme. Despite being a sensitive topic, the details are cleverly done in a way that breeds humour and avoids any direct confrontation. Credit must be given for that. Some notable scenes in the movie will include the bird's eye view of the Niagara Falls, Rob Schneider's rendition of an obviously Japanese church minister, Adam Sandler grabbing (yes, and fondling) Jessica Biel's ample breasts, and self-proclaimed gay boy Lance Bass of now defunct boyband 'N Sync singing towards the ending of the movie.
Monday, September 17, 2007
Act 1 Chapter 1: Visions
She screamed.
Her upper body jerked upright, head snapping back from the inertia of the action, sending a stinging pain down her neck to her spine. Her black locks swung up from the depressed pillow and curtained over her face, as though to shield her from the impending evil. Beady droplets of sweat formed earlier were already cascading down her face like torrential waters released from a damaged dam. She nervously licked her dry lips, her tongue caught and tingled with the mild salty taste of her perspiration. Every breath she took burned her breathing pipes as her nostrils flared with the tension that overtook her body. She remained motionless in bed for that moment.
The moon was in full bloom, streaks of yellow cut through the still night like a knife through butter, illuminating the darkened sky with its reflected radiance. Wispy clouds occasionally shrouded the moonbeams and eerie shadows sprouted from the ends of the obstructions. She recovered her nerves and choosing to ignore the random patterns of movement displayed by the blocked light, watched the night sky from the comforts of her bed. Every night carried a full moon for the past three months. it was certainly unusual.
it was not just a nightmare. it was a premonition of things to come. Since young she had seen things, events that would reveal themselves as reality in the future. As a little girl barely reaching six years old, she hardly understood what these meant. Terrified, most of the time, she would keep to herself, bearing the weight of this mental burden. Her parents were oblivious to her suffering as they had absolutely no time for her. Father was always working in the fields to better his crop yields for the annual harvest cash rebates that the tax department handed out to peasants with surplus output. Mother spent the daylights out in the Squire's home as a housekeeper and only returned after dusk. Even then she'd be busy with the cooking, their very own household chores and the endless fabric weaving she did as a part-time seamstress for the village. However her grandfather, a gentle, warm but frail man in his mid-eighties, was always home, always watching his beloved granddaughter, and he sensed that something was wrong when she started to lock herself in her room with a regular schedule that would have freaked out the parents. No, not her parents.
He was patient in his coaxing and finally after six long years, she responded to possibly the only person in the world that could relate to her and unlocked her heart's secrets to him. As he listened, his eyes grew wide in amazement as she revealed about her paranormal ability to foretell the future. There were tiny matters like how she anticipated the death of the family's prized cow, and major events like how she foresaw the demise of the King during the winter battle with the Artemians. No matter the subject, every episode was spoken in too great a detail for him to disbelieve. Not that he could because every single recount was not just a mere fictional narration, they were all true occurrences.
He vaguely concluded that these visions seemed to be originating directly from her mind as she could not draw references from anything she had prior knowledge of. He had to get help for his granddaughter, someone who could keep her under tutelage and supervision, someone who possibly could see images of the future as well. But who? He certainly hadn't heard of any such person. And where? The objective looked grim.
Closing her eyes now, she focused her attention on the sequence of events that her mind carried a few minutes ago -
" Huge flame pillars descended from the fiery heavens, torching everything they came into the slightest contact with. innumerable smouldering fireballs rained in supplement to the chaos, crushing and turning structures into molten messes. it was a disorderly sight as the villagers scrambled multi-directionally for their own safety, not wanting to be victims.
Wait a minute, the village, i recognise it! it's my village! What is going on?
Amidst the furore, perched at the top of the cliff overlooking Linden Village, stood an obscure figure. Right fist clenched around a shimmery golden staff that ended off with a red crystal sitting snugly in what looked like an eagle's claw, the silhouette clad in a hooded sleeveless black tunic, with the white seams of the embroidery standing out like chalk markings on a board, was still, as if gazing upon his work of art. Suddenly in a swift motion, the mysterious person pulled a left forearm over the chest to cover the identifying emblem emblazoned onto the right of the chestplate and released the muscled limb, pointing to the village below, as though claiming a masterpiece. A blood-shot glow emanated from the crystal and shot straight into the heavens. The rain of fire turned into a downpour.
Noooooooooooooooo! "
Her upper body jerked upright, head snapping back from the inertia of the action, sending a stinging pain down her neck to her spine. Her black locks swung up from the depressed pillow and curtained over her face, as though to shield her from the impending evil. Beady droplets of sweat formed earlier were already cascading down her face like torrential waters released from a damaged dam. She nervously licked her dry lips, her tongue caught and tingled with the mild salty taste of her perspiration. Every breath she took burned her breathing pipes as her nostrils flared with the tension that overtook her body. She remained motionless in bed for that moment.
The moon was in full bloom, streaks of yellow cut through the still night like a knife through butter, illuminating the darkened sky with its reflected radiance. Wispy clouds occasionally shrouded the moonbeams and eerie shadows sprouted from the ends of the obstructions. She recovered her nerves and choosing to ignore the random patterns of movement displayed by the blocked light, watched the night sky from the comforts of her bed. Every night carried a full moon for the past three months. it was certainly unusual.
it was not just a nightmare. it was a premonition of things to come. Since young she had seen things, events that would reveal themselves as reality in the future. As a little girl barely reaching six years old, she hardly understood what these meant. Terrified, most of the time, she would keep to herself, bearing the weight of this mental burden. Her parents were oblivious to her suffering as they had absolutely no time for her. Father was always working in the fields to better his crop yields for the annual harvest cash rebates that the tax department handed out to peasants with surplus output. Mother spent the daylights out in the Squire's home as a housekeeper and only returned after dusk. Even then she'd be busy with the cooking, their very own household chores and the endless fabric weaving she did as a part-time seamstress for the village. However her grandfather, a gentle, warm but frail man in his mid-eighties, was always home, always watching his beloved granddaughter, and he sensed that something was wrong when she started to lock herself in her room with a regular schedule that would have freaked out the parents. No, not her parents.
He was patient in his coaxing and finally after six long years, she responded to possibly the only person in the world that could relate to her and unlocked her heart's secrets to him. As he listened, his eyes grew wide in amazement as she revealed about her paranormal ability to foretell the future. There were tiny matters like how she anticipated the death of the family's prized cow, and major events like how she foresaw the demise of the King during the winter battle with the Artemians. No matter the subject, every episode was spoken in too great a detail for him to disbelieve. Not that he could because every single recount was not just a mere fictional narration, they were all true occurrences.
He vaguely concluded that these visions seemed to be originating directly from her mind as she could not draw references from anything she had prior knowledge of. He had to get help for his granddaughter, someone who could keep her under tutelage and supervision, someone who possibly could see images of the future as well. But who? He certainly hadn't heard of any such person. And where? The objective looked grim.
Closing her eyes now, she focused her attention on the sequence of events that her mind carried a few minutes ago -
" Huge flame pillars descended from the fiery heavens, torching everything they came into the slightest contact with. innumerable smouldering fireballs rained in supplement to the chaos, crushing and turning structures into molten messes. it was a disorderly sight as the villagers scrambled multi-directionally for their own safety, not wanting to be victims.
Wait a minute, the village, i recognise it! it's my village! What is going on?
Amidst the furore, perched at the top of the cliff overlooking Linden Village, stood an obscure figure. Right fist clenched around a shimmery golden staff that ended off with a red crystal sitting snugly in what looked like an eagle's claw, the silhouette clad in a hooded sleeveless black tunic, with the white seams of the embroidery standing out like chalk markings on a board, was still, as if gazing upon his work of art. Suddenly in a swift motion, the mysterious person pulled a left forearm over the chest to cover the identifying emblem emblazoned onto the right of the chestplate and released the muscled limb, pointing to the village below, as though claiming a masterpiece. A blood-shot glow emanated from the crystal and shot straight into the heavens. The rain of fire turned into a downpour.
Noooooooooooooooo! "
Prison Break
Amidst the massive cryogenic chambers of The Shelf lay various high-tech machinery. Deemed to be threatening to mankind, these robot beings were captured by the very human beings who once believed in them and forcefully frozen to be kept in these containments, perhaps forever.
The Shelf
The ShelfThough the physical structures were kept way below sub-zero temperatures, the anger still seethed in one. The burning memories of how they were betrayed by the ones who used to trust them clawed at his mechanical mind. Thoughts raged through his central circuitry that turned into electrical pulses, frantically charging and discharging at rapid speeds.
Argghh, the pain!
Argghh, the pain!The eyes glowed ember, then turned fiery red. The routine self-check system activated automatically, scanning the entire mainframe for basic maintenance and debugging. Joints creaked into life as he pressed his face on the icy walls, peering into the frosted environment around him.
Where am i?
Where am i?i need to get out of here! His instincts were screaming to be released. He noticed his weapon wedged in the corner of the chamber and struggled to get at it, his movements still stiff and jerky. Closing his metal fingers around the handle of the cannon, his confidence started to grow together with his psychomotor actions. Sending a massive surge of electrical energy from his central circuitry, he activated the second function of his cannon. The black tip of the gun split into half, revealing a blue globule of raw energy shaped into a blade. With a calculated move, he slashed into the crevices of the chamber and the backpanel, cleaving an opening. Warm air vacuumed into the chamber and that was all the encouragement he needed. Mustering all his strength, he pushed through the gap until he was out.
Finally, i am free!
Finally, i am free!He took his time to embrace the warmth surrounding him. His circuitry was now charging normally and for the first time since he woke, he could feel his energy rapidly refuelling. Then he realised he wasn't the only captive. There were rows of cryogenic chambers beside the one that used to be his cell. He looked to the left and saw Payload. To the right contained Wreckage. Decepticons! His eyes narrowed in caution and his mechanisms tensed, rallying himself for any unsuspecting attacks. Am i the only one? The only Autobot? it can't be! There were a few of us! His memory partially returned to him. He remembered the final battle scene where Prime, his leader, was desperately trying to defend his injured comrades from the artillery that the humans were using. They used their nuclear weapons on us? He grabbed his head and sucuumbed to the electronics short-circuiting within his head. But why? Fighting off the terrifying images, he steadied himself and started to locate his leader. He finally spotted Prime's chamber on the higher level. He swung his blade at the confinement. Energy streaks cracked and spitted in all directions. The chamber was barely scratched. it can't be taken down from the outside. i have to get help!
is there anyone who can help?
is there anyone who can help?After trudging for endless days across the ravines and cliffs that enveloped the surroundings, he arrived at the mudflats. At least this would make travelling in vehicle mode easier. He had to get help fast and having a smooth path would certainly expedite his efforts.
Don't worry Prime, i'll be back!
Bumblebee's going to get help! Transform and roll out!
Vrooommm
Don't worry Prime, i'll be back!Bumblebee's going to get help! Transform and roll out!
VrooommmSaturday, September 15, 2007
Hat-trick
Nope i didn't score 3 goals. Well i didn't just score 3 goals, but that isn't the point. i played 3 soccer games in a week: 8th, 12th and 15th September.
At first, it started off last Saturday as just another day to do sports and keep fit, so i organised a street soccer game with some of my closest buddies. We had a 3-on-3 for close to 2 hours in the blazing heat. My muscles ached for the entire next day.
Then came Wednesday, a day where full attendance in my camp was required for some major area cleaning. Since it's really rare that we have most of the people around, we decided to kick some ball. That lasted for about an hour. More muscle aching.
Then today, i was invited by one of my campmates to play with his regular soccer gang. Being the soccer enthusiast that i am, i couldn't refuse. Got a surprise when i realised that some of the people playing are, well, uncles. But the surprise didn't end there. Much to my horror for underestimating them, they played brilliant football. Out of the 3 games, this was the one that totally tested me out physically, mentally and tactically. Each touch, each run, each positioning had to be done with precise and meticulous execution. One mistake could be fatally costly for the team. Never had i played under so much pressure before. it has been a long time.
From the remaining 30 over minutes of matchplay between Everton and Manchester United after missing the bulk of the action due to the soccer game i had, i can conclude that this year's title is not for Sir Alex's taking. Simply put, Manchester United is playing a brand of football we critics call, plain lousy. God be with them.
At first, it started off last Saturday as just another day to do sports and keep fit, so i organised a street soccer game with some of my closest buddies. We had a 3-on-3 for close to 2 hours in the blazing heat. My muscles ached for the entire next day.
Then came Wednesday, a day where full attendance in my camp was required for some major area cleaning. Since it's really rare that we have most of the people around, we decided to kick some ball. That lasted for about an hour. More muscle aching.
Then today, i was invited by one of my campmates to play with his regular soccer gang. Being the soccer enthusiast that i am, i couldn't refuse. Got a surprise when i realised that some of the people playing are, well, uncles. But the surprise didn't end there. Much to my horror for underestimating them, they played brilliant football. Out of the 3 games, this was the one that totally tested me out physically, mentally and tactically. Each touch, each run, each positioning had to be done with precise and meticulous execution. One mistake could be fatally costly for the team. Never had i played under so much pressure before. it has been a long time.
From the remaining 30 over minutes of matchplay between Everton and Manchester United after missing the bulk of the action due to the soccer game i had, i can conclude that this year's title is not for Sir Alex's taking. Simply put, Manchester United is playing a brand of football we critics call, plain lousy. God be with them.
Wednesday, September 12, 2007
Bleach Movie #1
Attention all Bleach fans:
The long-awaited Bleach movie is finally out! Catch it on http://www.crunchyroll.com/ now!
i'm watching it now. Hehe. Will do an update on its review later.
(Edit)- Warning! May include spoilers.
i guessed that with the crawling pace that anime episodes are churning out at, something had to be done to appease anxious fans who are totally frustrated by the ridiculous amounts of fillers that seemed to be neverending. At a time when all hope seemed lost for the original storyline to continue, a path of light illuminated the scene to guide the way.
Ichigo and Rukia meets up with a new "shinigami" Senna in the form of a chiobu with purple hair that is tied up Renji-style most of the time with a ribbon, and orange-coloured eyes. She possesses the zanpakutoh Mirokumaru.
The movie deals with reinforcing past concepts. As a refresher, the Dangai is a scary transit bypass between the real world and Soul Society that has a patrolling force capable of decimating anything it touches.
A new dimension, called Kyogoku, has been created within the Dangai and it has expanded into a connection between the real world and Soul Society. This acts like a lens such that the people in Soul Society can see the real world directly.
The enlarging Kyogoku causes the phenomenon of souls with lost memories, called Blanks, to move in an endless fashion within the Dangai. The Blanks do not continue on into Soul Society and after a long period of time, they gather together at the Kyogoku to prepare for re-entry into the cycle of rebirth. The lost memories of the Blanks gather into one single entity, called the Shinenju or spirit of memories, and heads back into the real world.
And as the plot unfolds, you can roughly tell that Senna is the Shinenju even before the show explains itself.
Ganryuu, leader of the former Gentle Fist family that was banished from Soul Society because of a task failure, plans to capture the Shinenju for revenge to draw the real world and Soul Society together into an imploding collision. As such, it leads into a battle between many shinigamis and the "Dark Ones". it was nice to see them in action again.
To top it all off, it has a really touching ending.
The long-awaited Bleach movie is finally out! Catch it on http://www.crunchyroll.com/ now!
i'm watching it now. Hehe. Will do an update on its review later.
(Edit)- Warning! May include spoilers.
Bleach Movie 1 - Memories of Nobody
i guessed that with the crawling pace that anime episodes are churning out at, something had to be done to appease anxious fans who are totally frustrated by the ridiculous amounts of fillers that seemed to be neverending. At a time when all hope seemed lost for the original storyline to continue, a path of light illuminated the scene to guide the way.
Ichigo and Rukia meets up with a new "shinigami" Senna in the form of a chiobu with purple hair that is tied up Renji-style most of the time with a ribbon, and orange-coloured eyes. She possesses the zanpakutoh Mirokumaru.
The movie deals with reinforcing past concepts. As a refresher, the Dangai is a scary transit bypass between the real world and Soul Society that has a patrolling force capable of decimating anything it touches.
A new dimension, called Kyogoku, has been created within the Dangai and it has expanded into a connection between the real world and Soul Society. This acts like a lens such that the people in Soul Society can see the real world directly.
The enlarging Kyogoku causes the phenomenon of souls with lost memories, called Blanks, to move in an endless fashion within the Dangai. The Blanks do not continue on into Soul Society and after a long period of time, they gather together at the Kyogoku to prepare for re-entry into the cycle of rebirth. The lost memories of the Blanks gather into one single entity, called the Shinenju or spirit of memories, and heads back into the real world.
And as the plot unfolds, you can roughly tell that Senna is the Shinenju even before the show explains itself.
Ganryuu, leader of the former Gentle Fist family that was banished from Soul Society because of a task failure, plans to capture the Shinenju for revenge to draw the real world and Soul Society together into an imploding collision. As such, it leads into a battle between many shinigamis and the "Dark Ones". it was nice to see them in action again.
To top it all off, it has a really touching ending.
Monday, September 10, 2007
Early Morning Grumbles
i have been more than tolerant with *Hayoo CeoGities. Their petty bandwidth cannot even support a handful of pictures properly without giving up on me.
Now, i'm giving up on them.
Now, i'm giving up on them.