Had not been writing much. Had been caught up with flying for the last two weeks. Really needed the rest that is coming at the end of the week. This week is tough though..
Tue : Brisbane
Wed : night flight back to Singapore
Thu : Reach Singapore by 0530hrs so that I can qualify for the inbound cab. Meeting up with Sandy for the first time to discuss the wedding package. If time permits, Huimin and I might rush down to Gone Fishing cafe to join Efung for his photo exhibit launch.
Fri: Rest day. Meeting Daniel, our contractor to finalise the details for Project Home
Sat : Afternoon flight to Shanghai
Sun : Night flight back to Singapore
One more week, I tell myself!!
Now trying out on my first downloaded podcast into my IPOD nano. Will listen to it when I reach Brisbane.
:)
Aliying
P.S: Hopefully I can get some inspiration to blog when I am over at Brisbane.
Monday, February 27, 2006
Friday, February 24, 2006
Shanghai
I am back!
The next thing you know, I am off again... grggg...
Good that work is coming in, so no complains from my side. Just have to do my best in whatever things that I do.
Still missing out a few birthday presents, so need to work on it when I am up on my next few trips - Brisbane and Shanghai.. In addition, need to catch up with Fuhan and KengFei, Ben and coy, and bro Vincent. I need to better manage my time. 24hours a day is what all of us have only~
Shanghai is a very modern place, certainly impressed by it. As I flew into the approach, I can see a total contrast on two sides. On my left are all the modern infrastructres and modernised skyscrapers. On my right, I can see rows of worn down houses with broken bridges and waiting to be harvested fields. What a place this is, Shanghai.
Got a rest and took the opportunity to walk around Shanghai. Quite a different contrast to Beijing. This is quite modern. 3things that I observe:
1. People seems to be delibrately knocking into mi left right center. There is such a broad walkway but they must knock you. Call it a simple gesture to say hi to you in the bodily manner!
2. People are still spitting everywhere. Not that I cannot take it. My margin to this is huge, but wait till you are inches away from the projectary. Wicked!
3. Taxi driver seems to be "smoking" mi that the highway is closed, hence bringing us sort of a one big round..what to do?
Guess this is what we have - Shanghai. I cannot change it, and it takes time to change it unlike a instantenous on off switch. I will not join them if I cannot beat them. Just kind of enjoying the culture shock. I like travelling because u get to see so many different aspects and formalities of lives.
So far so good!
Aliying
The next thing you know, I am off again... grggg...
Good that work is coming in, so no complains from my side. Just have to do my best in whatever things that I do.
Still missing out a few birthday presents, so need to work on it when I am up on my next few trips - Brisbane and Shanghai.. In addition, need to catch up with Fuhan and KengFei, Ben and coy, and bro Vincent. I need to better manage my time. 24hours a day is what all of us have only~
Shanghai is a very modern place, certainly impressed by it. As I flew into the approach, I can see a total contrast on two sides. On my left are all the modern infrastructres and modernised skyscrapers. On my right, I can see rows of worn down houses with broken bridges and waiting to be harvested fields. What a place this is, Shanghai.
Got a rest and took the opportunity to walk around Shanghai. Quite a different contrast to Beijing. This is quite modern. 3things that I observe:
1. People seems to be delibrately knocking into mi left right center. There is such a broad walkway but they must knock you. Call it a simple gesture to say hi to you in the bodily manner!
2. People are still spitting everywhere. Not that I cannot take it. My margin to this is huge, but wait till you are inches away from the projectary. Wicked!
3. Taxi driver seems to be "smoking" mi that the highway is closed, hence bringing us sort of a one big round..what to do?
Guess this is what we have - Shanghai. I cannot change it, and it takes time to change it unlike a instantenous on off switch. I will not join them if I cannot beat them. Just kind of enjoying the culture shock. I like travelling because u get to see so many different aspects and formalities of lives.
So far so good!
Aliying
Monday, February 20, 2006
reading the papers....
Not sure if I am biased, but I thought that our Straits Times is quite a nice piece of newspaper to read. At 80cents, this is quite a competitive price relative to newspapers from the rest of the world. Maybe I myself is a heartlander, so I am able to relate more of the news articles wrote abt Singapore. Throw it to a non Singaporean, he or she might be wondering, "nothing special wat! Just an ordinary piece of newspaper"
A lot of people "comprain" that our newspapers should n0t had the price increment from 60 cent to 80 cents then 2 years back.. I thought so too, considering that the company is still profiting in a reasonable fashion. However, if I put myself in the shoes of the editors, it is not easy to write a column. I know that editors are experts in writing craps, but credit should be given to them for putting up excellent articles or "good craps".
Today, I read an article that talked abt the fact that there is a little of "brokeback" in everything that we do. Brokeback Office Ladies(OL), Brokeback Olyumpic(I think I spelt it wrongly) where two men "bent" down together in close contact to ski around a circuit in record time. There is brokeback NSF, brokeback discipline, brokeback Counterstrike....okie, just kidding...
Director Lee did not direct this "brokeback" to express his view on gays. He is not gay too... He does not need to be gay in order to produce a gay show. My good friend Jeffrey told mi that Mingyun cried while watching the movie. Had feedback from him that the movie is quite good. A go item to catch!!! In this way, "Brokeback Mountain" has just been added in to my list of things to do in Singapore.
I am not Carrie Bradshaw, neither an I Sumiko Tan. I am the humble Owner of this blog, Aliying.
:)
Aliying
A lot of people "comprain" that our newspapers should n0t had the price increment from 60 cent to 80 cents then 2 years back.. I thought so too, considering that the company is still profiting in a reasonable fashion. However, if I put myself in the shoes of the editors, it is not easy to write a column. I know that editors are experts in writing craps, but credit should be given to them for putting up excellent articles or "good craps".
Today, I read an article that talked abt the fact that there is a little of "brokeback" in everything that we do. Brokeback Office Ladies(OL), Brokeback Olyumpic(I think I spelt it wrongly) where two men "bent" down together in close contact to ski around a circuit in record time. There is brokeback NSF, brokeback discipline, brokeback Counterstrike....okie, just kidding...
Director Lee did not direct this "brokeback" to express his view on gays. He is not gay too... He does not need to be gay in order to produce a gay show. My good friend Jeffrey told mi that Mingyun cried while watching the movie. Had feedback from him that the movie is quite good. A go item to catch!!! In this way, "Brokeback Mountain" has just been added in to my list of things to do in Singapore.
I am not Carrie Bradshaw, neither an I Sumiko Tan. I am the humble Owner of this blog, Aliying.
:)
Aliying
Back to Sillypore from Brisbane
Felt good to make my way back to Sillypore. Not saying that Brisbane is not to my likings, but I still believe that my home in Singapore is still the best!
Brisbane is a nice crossover between Sydney, Melbourne and Perth. Perth is too quiet(no shops open after 5) and Melbourne is too urban. Brisbane, right smack in the centre of the Sunshine coast, is somewhere inbetween. Nice!
I managed to take some photos but to my disappointment, the photos are not to standard. Guess need to relearn my ropes abt urban photography. No good, no good! As of now, my best photos are the ones that I took in Nepal back in 2003. Not world standards, but good enough for my viewing pleasure.
In a nutshell, I reached Brisbane in the morning, caught a nap, do some walkaround in Queen St mall, had fish and chips at Pigs and whistle just outside the hotel which I am staying. Watched animation till I slept. Woke up the next day, swam, had lunch at the food court b4 I hit my way back to Sillypore.
I love Sillypore! (Sillypore is coined by my friend that we do not know how fortunate we are in Singapore. Hence the word Sillypore and Sillyporean)
Will be enjoying my much needed off day today...got to view my drawings of my new house with Daniel, my contractor.
Aliying
Brisbane is a nice crossover between Sydney, Melbourne and Perth. Perth is too quiet(no shops open after 5) and Melbourne is too urban. Brisbane, right smack in the centre of the Sunshine coast, is somewhere inbetween. Nice!
I managed to take some photos but to my disappointment, the photos are not to standard. Guess need to relearn my ropes abt urban photography. No good, no good! As of now, my best photos are the ones that I took in Nepal back in 2003. Not world standards, but good enough for my viewing pleasure.
In a nutshell, I reached Brisbane in the morning, caught a nap, do some walkaround in Queen St mall, had fish and chips at Pigs and whistle just outside the hotel which I am staying. Watched animation till I slept. Woke up the next day, swam, had lunch at the food court b4 I hit my way back to Sillypore.
I love Sillypore! (Sillypore is coined by my friend that we do not know how fortunate we are in Singapore. Hence the word Sillypore and Sillyporean)
Will be enjoying my much needed off day today...got to view my drawings of my new house with Daniel, my contractor.
Aliying
Thursday, February 16, 2006
The last piece of the jigsaw..the flowers are for...
Recently, I had a friend who thought that I held the wedding alreadi...You are not wrong. The truer truth is I had registered the marriage with Min back in May 2004. The actual wedding is coming this year though..So to make sure that I do not get any more surprises,here are more info for you all to enjoy..
This is Min / Huimin / Hwee Bing / Mrs Chong by my side. Make sure nobody, I mean, NOBODY, gets this wrong!!! In-depth stats, unfortunately are unavailable to you. Can try making mi drunk to spill out any info, but you must be a strong drinker first. Can try putting a knife by my throat, but I will preserve in my endurance to reveal any info.ahahahahaha!
Facts and figures abt our relationship
1. We first met in JJC in 1995.
2. I outdoor, She indoor then
3. I outdoor, She semi outdoor now
4. She does what a normal girl does
5. I can be extreme at times (by my own standards)
6. She aims to climb Kota Kinabula by end 2006
7. I aim to climb Mt XXX by end 2016
8. Both of us graduated from NUS (She - B.Sci I - B.Eng)
9. She is a teacher
10. I am an aviator.
11. We exchanged vows on 29th May 2004.
12. She is teaching now.
13. I am preparing for a flight tomo to Brisbane now, sidetracking with typing the blog at the same time, aka multi tasking
14. We are meeting up tonite after running with Jeffrey.
Aliying
Wednesday, February 15, 2006
Valentine Day round 2
Dear all,
How was your Valentine day spent? Be it with a friend, gf, spouse, or having a workout, I am sure that all of us had a well spent day.
Came back from my Bangkok Turnaround flight (FYI - a turnaround is defined as coming back from a destination within a same day. Aka Singapore - Bangkok - Singapore within a day) When I reached Singapore, I saw Min waiting for mi at the airport. From the tired soul came a rejuveniated Aliying.
Had a good dinner with the rest of my family. Had Scallop(yum yum!), fried prawn +sotong paste+ potato strings, brewed Chicken Soup with Bak ku Teh meat. (Die die must have soup in my diet!) My youngest brother, Sheng is preparing to catch a madness late nite movie at 11pm at Orchard Cineleisure while my second brother, Yao, was preparing to have dinner round 2 with his friends at Tiong Bahru. With a sudden instinct, I took the initiative to give Yao a ride to Dover MRT as I was enroute to Holland V. (FYI, Min and I used to meet up over there often for our regular dosage of coffee and chat). Yao gladly obliged.
Finally, to the main topic(look above for the title - Valentine day round 2)! Min and I managed to find a pathetic slot for the car in the newly constructed Holland v carpark. Making our way past Parissilk and Holland v hawker centre on our left, Coffee Bean on the right, I was visual with so many many couples. That is sweet, totally. Couples were everywhere - god that there is still love found in Singapore. Everyone was engaged in their sweet nothings, wearing tip top smart casuals with the die die must have rose bonquets on their hands. Then I stopped and looked at myself - Nike running T shirt with sleeves and berm and my fav $3.99 construction slippers. I looked damn ohbique! But come to think of it, I had spent my valentine day round 1 earlier last sunday. So the pressure was not on mi to impress the rest of the world that I am in love with Min. Ha! Been there done that! Kind of strange, but I felt relaxed when I was strolling our way down Wala Wala dir with Min by my side. Guess that we were enjoying the post Valentine day, to be exact. No rush to queue for food, no rush to pluck any flowers or roses by the stores and roadside, no pressure to say sweet nothings continuously to my other half. Just Min and myself.
Made our way to Essential Brews. It is a 2 storey dining restaurant which I had good impressions of the freezes and drinks. Ordered an earl grey and Min ordered a Chai latte (I think). There were so many couples inside! But I can feel the tension growing as the staff were unable to cope with the evergrowing crowd inside the restaurant. People were starving and getting the wrong food delivered to their table. Can imagine if I was in their shoes.
I am not crossing out the fact that we should celebrate Valentine day on 14.02.06. I am not crossing out the fact that we should celebrate Valentine day anyday except 14.02.06. We should celebrate Valentine day as the day where you renew the relationship between you and the other half. A day where we reflect upon the things that we had done together over the past year (or the past 10 years for mi, ahahahah!). A day where we have something to look forward in this coming year (Our new house???). A day where ...... (to be filled up by yourself)
Aliying
How was your Valentine day spent? Be it with a friend, gf, spouse, or having a workout, I am sure that all of us had a well spent day.
Came back from my Bangkok Turnaround flight (FYI - a turnaround is defined as coming back from a destination within a same day. Aka Singapore - Bangkok - Singapore within a day) When I reached Singapore, I saw Min waiting for mi at the airport. From the tired soul came a rejuveniated Aliying.
Had a good dinner with the rest of my family. Had Scallop(yum yum!), fried prawn +sotong paste+ potato strings, brewed Chicken Soup with Bak ku Teh meat. (Die die must have soup in my diet!) My youngest brother, Sheng is preparing to catch a madness late nite movie at 11pm at Orchard Cineleisure while my second brother, Yao, was preparing to have dinner round 2 with his friends at Tiong Bahru. With a sudden instinct, I took the initiative to give Yao a ride to Dover MRT as I was enroute to Holland V. (FYI, Min and I used to meet up over there often for our regular dosage of coffee and chat). Yao gladly obliged.
Finally, to the main topic(look above for the title - Valentine day round 2)! Min and I managed to find a pathetic slot for the car in the newly constructed Holland v carpark. Making our way past Parissilk and Holland v hawker centre on our left, Coffee Bean on the right, I was visual with so many many couples. That is sweet, totally. Couples were everywhere - god that there is still love found in Singapore. Everyone was engaged in their sweet nothings, wearing tip top smart casuals with the die die must have rose bonquets on their hands. Then I stopped and looked at myself - Nike running T shirt with sleeves and berm and my fav $3.99 construction slippers. I looked damn ohbique! But come to think of it, I had spent my valentine day round 1 earlier last sunday. So the pressure was not on mi to impress the rest of the world that I am in love with Min. Ha! Been there done that! Kind of strange, but I felt relaxed when I was strolling our way down Wala Wala dir with Min by my side. Guess that we were enjoying the post Valentine day, to be exact. No rush to queue for food, no rush to pluck any flowers or roses by the stores and roadside, no pressure to say sweet nothings continuously to my other half. Just Min and myself.
Made our way to Essential Brews. It is a 2 storey dining restaurant which I had good impressions of the freezes and drinks. Ordered an earl grey and Min ordered a Chai latte (I think). There were so many couples inside! But I can feel the tension growing as the staff were unable to cope with the evergrowing crowd inside the restaurant. People were starving and getting the wrong food delivered to their table. Can imagine if I was in their shoes.
I am not crossing out the fact that we should celebrate Valentine day on 14.02.06. I am not crossing out the fact that we should celebrate Valentine day anyday except 14.02.06. We should celebrate Valentine day as the day where you renew the relationship between you and the other half. A day where we reflect upon the things that we had done together over the past year (or the past 10 years for mi, ahahahah!). A day where we have something to look forward in this coming year (Our new house???). A day where ...... (to be filled up by yourself)
Aliying
Monday, February 13, 2006
Happy Valentine day to all of us out there
Dear all,
Valentine's day tomo. Wish all the couples out there a very happy valentine day.
Had a well spent 10th Valentine day with Huimin. :) Details shall be closed, not to be revealed. But the flowers given to Min are acceptable.
(Photograph copyrighted of Aliying)
Aliying
Thursday, February 09, 2006
A productive off day
What do I do typically on an off day?
1. Go to STC
2. Go to T2
3. Go to East Coast Mac to finish up the book titled "No dreams too high" given to me personally by Efung
4. Go to find Arcade in Bukit Timah "I had conveniently summarised that there is no more arcade in the big 3 shopping centres of Bukit Timah"
5. Meet Min for lunch
6. Set up a DBS joint account
7. Went to my new house to look at the progress of the laying of the tiles
8. Fetched my father
9. Had dinner with my mother auntie
10. Lost 6 dollars in a round of manjong (2hrs)
11. Typing my blog entry
12. Bath
13. Watch Full Metal Alchemist animation (if I am still going strong)
14. Sleep and prepare for the next day.
Aliying
1. Go to STC
2. Go to T2
3. Go to East Coast Mac to finish up the book titled "No dreams too high" given to me personally by Efung
4. Go to find Arcade in Bukit Timah "I had conveniently summarised that there is no more arcade in the big 3 shopping centres of Bukit Timah"
5. Meet Min for lunch
6. Set up a DBS joint account
7. Went to my new house to look at the progress of the laying of the tiles
8. Fetched my father
9. Had dinner with my mother auntie
10. Lost 6 dollars in a round of manjong (2hrs)
11. Typing my blog entry
12. Bath
13. Watch Full Metal Alchemist animation (if I am still going strong)
14. Sleep and prepare for the next day.
Aliying
Wednesday, February 08, 2006
May I present you, the inside of an unfinished house!Had initally just wanted a 90sqm 4 room flat so that it would be easier to maintain. But circumstances decided for us to take this 128sqm EA flat due to the following reasons:
1. Cheap cheap bought from HDB
2. close proximity from the Min's parents place(approx 5min walk).
3. close proximity to my parent's place in Woodlands (approx 12km)
4. I am happy with the size. Got so much space to play around with.
5. This is my house!
:)
Aliying
P.S : Had not caught any CNY movie - Fearless or I not stupid II? Will be catching one with Min at LIDO tomo...
Tuesday, February 07, 2006
Looking at the MRT
This photo was taken by self when I took part in the first Canon Digital Photo marathon. For your viewing pleasure
Aliying
Saturday, February 04, 2006
The class outing was shiok!
It had been two good years since I last attended the class lao yu sheng. Was kind of anxious abt it. Min and I met at 1830hrs LMT b4 we took a short stroll to the famous and hao leng Holland V XO fishhead noodles.
Thanks to the rest of the class for making the class outing possible. In no order of sequence, they are - Mark, Julie, Cherlene, David Chew, Chin Chew, Weimin, Zhaoyong,Jamson, Elsen, Yingrui, Efung , Huiyi, Huimin and myself. We had the lucky combo meal - the Holland V XO fishhead noodles famous five, preceded by the Lao yu sheng.
My wish for the lao yu sheng is to wish that my training will be smooth to the transition to my first officerhood. On top of that, I wish that the preparation for the house, the wedding and the honeymoon will be smooth. The process will be rough to go, but it is to be savoured well.
So nice to be able to see my class again. And I am proud to say that we are indeed one of the stronger class to come about. At least once every quarterly will a class outing be initiated. The class is unique by itself. Every individual is there to put in his, or her effort to make the class outing a successful one.
After the class outing which ended at 0100hrs, Efung and I proceeded to Jaslin place for yet another round of nite manjong. We had different modes of transport(Efung is by cycling while I am on the cab). When we met up, the rest were alreadi engrossed in the fercious fight of the manjong clan. In the green piece of battlefield, tiles were thrown left right centre and all 4 had the common objective - to win the money with as much token as possible. Efung and I soaked back in the smooth music and lounge sofa. Chilled totally.
Efung had a surprise gift for mi - no dreams too high by the NUS centennial Everest Expedition. It strongly retriggered my desire to climb Everest. Still remember my Project Everest b4 38? I was thinking - am I determined enough to climb Everest? How much is my desire to climb that? Or am I setting Everest so that should I not climb it, I would be able to climb something lower than that, same Cho Oyu? So many queries, so one thing at the time. I am definitely keen to climb Everest. With some discussion with Efung, he advised mi to start preparation at 2010. Okie. 2010 shall be my ball parked figure. When 2010 comes, I must commence the route up to the highest point of the world. It may not realise, but I hope that I can come close to it. Someday, somehow, somewhat. The money will not be easy to earn, the time will not be enough to spare, the liabilities and other committment will be too overwhelming for mi, the job may not permit mi to realise this and last but not least, my leg may not be able to take my 65kg frame.
One day, I will
ALiying
Thanks to the rest of the class for making the class outing possible. In no order of sequence, they are - Mark, Julie, Cherlene, David Chew, Chin Chew, Weimin, Zhaoyong,Jamson, Elsen, Yingrui, Efung , Huiyi, Huimin and myself. We had the lucky combo meal - the Holland V XO fishhead noodles famous five, preceded by the Lao yu sheng.
My wish for the lao yu sheng is to wish that my training will be smooth to the transition to my first officerhood. On top of that, I wish that the preparation for the house, the wedding and the honeymoon will be smooth. The process will be rough to go, but it is to be savoured well.
So nice to be able to see my class again. And I am proud to say that we are indeed one of the stronger class to come about. At least once every quarterly will a class outing be initiated. The class is unique by itself. Every individual is there to put in his, or her effort to make the class outing a successful one.
After the class outing which ended at 0100hrs, Efung and I proceeded to Jaslin place for yet another round of nite manjong. We had different modes of transport(Efung is by cycling while I am on the cab). When we met up, the rest were alreadi engrossed in the fercious fight of the manjong clan. In the green piece of battlefield, tiles were thrown left right centre and all 4 had the common objective - to win the money with as much token as possible. Efung and I soaked back in the smooth music and lounge sofa. Chilled totally.
Efung had a surprise gift for mi - no dreams too high by the NUS centennial Everest Expedition. It strongly retriggered my desire to climb Everest. Still remember my Project Everest b4 38? I was thinking - am I determined enough to climb Everest? How much is my desire to climb that? Or am I setting Everest so that should I not climb it, I would be able to climb something lower than that, same Cho Oyu? So many queries, so one thing at the time. I am definitely keen to climb Everest. With some discussion with Efung, he advised mi to start preparation at 2010. Okie. 2010 shall be my ball parked figure. When 2010 comes, I must commence the route up to the highest point of the world. It may not realise, but I hope that I can come close to it. Someday, somehow, somewhat. The money will not be easy to earn, the time will not be enough to spare, the liabilities and other committment will be too overwhelming for mi, the job may not permit mi to realise this and last but not least, my leg may not be able to take my 65kg frame.
One day, I will
ALiying
Friday, February 03, 2006
Overdue pic from last year
(L-R)Myself, jeffrey, Eizac, Kapor
Above:Jeffrey, Huimin, myselfSeated:Kapor, Eizac
Should had posted this last year. Added a new feature under my fav entry, wala. The entry is linked over there.
THanks to Eizac for burning the photos to mi. If you are reading this, dude, thanks a million!
Going for my class lao yu sheng outing later in the evening. Had missed for the last two years. Yes, I can make it~
Aliying
Thursday, February 02, 2006
It had been a few days since I input an entry. The crux of falling sick b4 every CNY always happen to mi due to an overdosage of bwa kua and not drinking enough water. The next thing you know, I am on my way to Osaka and now I am back a "recovered" man!
It is so nice to have a reunion dinner after being away from the previous one due training. This time round, my uncle and the rest of my family got together to eat dinner. It had been very heartwarming. Not much words mentioned, but I can sense that my mother was very happy to have mi eating reunion dinner. Next year, there will be a new family member joining the reunion dinner - that is of course, my wife, Huimin.
Chu yi : Played Manjong with my 2 brothers - 2 rounds...shiok! Had been a while since we brothers got together to play manjong. With my constant travelling, it is important to find time to catch up with my two younger brothers. Had a wonderful streamboat with my nephews. Nice! As a kid, you always looked forward to get Hong bao, play and eat delicious bwa kua(Yes, this is the third time that I had mentioned it) Had manjong(again!!!) with Jaslin, Dave, Jeffrey and Mingyun. Felt sick, prepared for my Osaka flight b4 I fell asleep. I hope to recover b4 my flight to Osaka on chu er. Popped a few panadols and tried to catch some quality sleep.
Chu er: Was at Huimin's place. Huimin side had the tradition to gather together at her place. Had buffet and lots of interaction with her relatives. Tried to catch an hour sleep with all the rattling outside the room b4 I made my way to the airport. Destination - Osaka
Chu san: Reached Osaka in the morning. Caught some sleep b4 having sushi lunch with my Capt and first officer (FO). The sushi set was.....Original! Definitely not the ones that we had tasted at Sushi tei and Sake Sushi. Man, seeing the master chef prepare and serve it entree to mi as a set meal was definitely a joy. Not forgetting the aquarium full of puffer fish and see urchins infront of mi. :)
Did some walking around with my FO. Really enjoyed the walk cos I had the privilage of the FO to show mi around so willingly, so selflessly. Thanks! Went to Namba and ...mashi. Did some light shopping b4 having a Katsu don for dinner. Things in general, are still very expensive. With careful searching, you can still get good lobang for food and shopping.
Chu si: Preparing for my inbound flight back to Sing. Next thing, you know I am back in Singapore :) Let mi try to catch some CNY mood in the air while it is still around. Gtg now, meeting Lip Chee for lunch. :)
:)Aliying
Saturday, January 28, 2006
Came back from CHC
Finally came back after a 19hr flight. Feeling a bit sick. Think I caught a cold while I was exposed to the winds over at Akaroa.
Always had the tendency to fall sick just b4 the new year. So to take precaution, I am popping two panadols, sleep now, and hope that miracle will take place tomo.
I will be back. Standby
Aliying
Always had the tendency to fall sick just b4 the new year. So to take precaution, I am popping two panadols, sleep now, and hope that miracle will take place tomo.
I will be back. Standby
Aliying
Thursday, January 26, 2006
Day 2 in Christchurch (CHC)
Welcome to the land of Akaroa, 1.5hrs drive to the east of CHC. It used to be a french colony and is situated on top of an open shield "dead" volcano. It was a nice day tour. Had mac this morning(got to fill up my stomach b4 I start to have fun) b4 I hit the Akoroa French Connection half day tour. 6 of us, initially unknown to each other and strangers(a sydney couple, Emily from Canada, Matthiew from Germany, Linda), were brought together by the driver, Ron.
We were given a commentary by Ron abt the history of CHC. A late city bloomer in 1850s, otherwise called as the garden city(feels nicer than our Singapore gardern city), Avon river as the river of life injected in to the city, etc. We went on route 75(their expressway no) around the scenic ride to Akoroa. We went to the beach to pick up coloured peddles from a peddle bench(you heard mi no wrong..it is a peddle beach, not a sand beach), to a peddler collector's collection, had coffee at a high lookout point overseeing Akoroa, the cheese factory finally dropped of at the town of Akoroa for some free and easy time. Some elected to laze around, some opt for the walking trails, I choose the 2hrs Akoroa harbour cruise to try my luck to spot penguins, dolphins and seals.
Was really chilling facing the pacific ocean and the Tasman sea(if I am not wrong). Spotted a pot(not school) of 8 hector dolphins. It was really nice!!! Wind was blasting straight at us(v cold!!!). After the cruise, managed to have a sip of flat white b4 I made my way back to CHC. There are only 400 occuptants in Akoroa, while most of the houses were owned by holiday makers.
As for dinner, I initially wanted to have it with my FO. However he was not available. Thinking that I might be having dinner myself, I made my way down b4 I saw Capt Tan and Capt Chung. B4 you know it, I am having dinner with the two capts. Stressed!
Turned out that the dinner was the best I ever had for my Second Officer training so far. You can never imagine how much you can learn just by eating lamb shank and drinking NZ beer. Trust mi, I had been alot not just from one but two Capts! Will remember their words and strive to improve oneself. Nice!
Will be making my way in bound to Singapore (SIN) tomo. Will be looking forward to spend CNY with my family. XIN NIAN KWA LE
Aliying :)
Wednesday, January 25, 2006
Greetings from Christchurch (CHC) 2nd time
Dear people,
Yes, I am writing in from CHC for the second time. Been here for the first time two weeks ago, the feeling was somehow similar - the people, the weather, the hospitality, etc. The flight was tiring though - a total of 9hrs 45min. When I reached the hotel, I washed up and hit the bed straight away. Hibernating in T-30sec......ZZZzZZZzzzzz
Took a 3 hr nap, b4 I mustered my courage to run to the Botanic gardens. The garden was large, with a interflowing Avon river zipping left and right around the garden. It was reported that you can take an hour to run round it. Based on my pace, it should be 10km. I think so. Totally motivated, inspired and pushed to run by the fellow NZ runners
Totally satisfied from my run(which is kind of lagging in my progress), I proceeded on to have a sumptous dinner at a Cambodian restaurant. Wandered around for a while by myself b4 I hit my way back to the computer terminal at the hotel.
As for tomo, I will be making my way to the eastern side of CHC called Akaroa. Heard that the views are scenic, coupled with seals and dolphins. Will slot in tomo journal if possible.
It is coming to a month since I started my first revenue flight. Still kind of adjusting to my new flight deck. Though most of the outbound flights from SIN are at nite, I do enjoy the moment of night, piece and night views from 37000ft. The passion for the job will continue.....
Aliying
Yes, I am writing in from CHC for the second time. Been here for the first time two weeks ago, the feeling was somehow similar - the people, the weather, the hospitality, etc. The flight was tiring though - a total of 9hrs 45min. When I reached the hotel, I washed up and hit the bed straight away. Hibernating in T-30sec......ZZZzZZZzzzzz
Took a 3 hr nap, b4 I mustered my courage to run to the Botanic gardens. The garden was large, with a interflowing Avon river zipping left and right around the garden. It was reported that you can take an hour to run round it. Based on my pace, it should be 10km. I think so. Totally motivated, inspired and pushed to run by the fellow NZ runners
Totally satisfied from my run(which is kind of lagging in my progress), I proceeded on to have a sumptous dinner at a Cambodian restaurant. Wandered around for a while by myself b4 I hit my way back to the computer terminal at the hotel.
As for tomo, I will be making my way to the eastern side of CHC called Akaroa. Heard that the views are scenic, coupled with seals and dolphins. Will slot in tomo journal if possible.
It is coming to a month since I started my first revenue flight. Still kind of adjusting to my new flight deck. Though most of the outbound flights from SIN are at nite, I do enjoy the moment of night, piece and night views from 37000ft. The passion for the job will continue.....
Aliying
Monday, January 23, 2006
Reunion dinner round 1 with Huimin family
It was a time to get together for the once again reunion dinner. In Chinese context, we would always get together to have a dinner to signify the end of a year and the start of the DOG year. We had catering from four seasons catering (this is not to be confused with four seasons hotel). It was nice for everyone to meet up despite the tight schedule. Had not been catching up with Binghui and Huili for a week plus cos I was away to Beijing. So it was really great to catch up with one another. I was informed by Binghui that the stuff in SIM LIM had gone up. SO as of now, I can only look forward to the PC show in march. We also took the opportunity to celebrate Diana, HZ and father's birthday. It was "efficient" to celebrate 3 birthdays at one shot. YOu know, it is the sincerity that counts. It never hurts to remember your loved one's birthday. It can make alot of difference, u know?After the dinner, I quickly made my way to meet my SIA guys for the 2nd anniversary. Yes, I am pleased to inform all of you that I am progressig fine in SIA for the second conservative year. ALong with mi are newly founded friends that had gone through thick and thin with mi. I am so glad that my friends had rendered mi support throughout my 2 years of training. There will be many good years to come, I can assure every one of them. Upcoming would be Gene's wedding in March. Not forgetting mine at the end of the year, I hope that all of us would be checked out by then.
Time flies, I must say. I am in my late twenties alreadi. If you think the teens are fast, wait till u see adulthood as you enter the magical no 20++. There is still so much things to do in my life, got to cherish every sec, min, hour, month, year and decade. :)
Think I should sleep now, considering the time now 0612hrs.
Good nite, ladies and gentlemen
ALiying
Saturday, January 21, 2006
A "Nepali" dinner served in Singapore style
Just had a dinner with Efung's Everest Sherpa Guide, Kami. Those who came along are Efung, Huiyi, Huimin, Meiyin, Chin Chew, Jeffrey, Jaslin, Dave, Jovin, Dr Robert Goh and Elaine. (Hope that I got all the names right). We had dinner at Brewarkz. Man, the place sure need a hell of a waiting time.By the time we got a seat, it was half past nine. By the time we had the dinner was a quarter past ten. Despite this, the spirit is still high with such a interesting combination of people sitting down together to have a simple dinner.
THe reason for the title of this entry is because we have, with us, a Nepali called Kami. His portfolio is not one to be trifled with - 6 time Everest Summit, summits in Makalu, Arbut Nabut, Shishabangma, 6 times Cho Oyu, etc. This year, he would be leading an American team to Everest via the North side. We wish him a successful siummit bid and a safe climbing year. Seeing Kami remains mi vividly of the good old Nepal days that I had been back in 2003. Skinny, yet fit, dark, humble, always with a smily face, he is very easy to get along with. Even though I do not know him, I was introduced by Jeffrey to him. We quickly get into good bursts of chat. That is further accelerated by the consumption of beer. :)
While we are cheerfully having our dinner, I quietly brought out the small little dream that Jeffrey and I had in a small corner of our heart. We would like to climb Everest. Dr Robert Goh seemed surprised. He mentioned to us that we needed the time, the commitment, the equipment and the most importantly, the training. I dare not say that we will definitely do it and make Singapore proud. Still got the chance to make it single digit to the no of Singaporeans that peaked Everest. But I dare say that as long as "Project Everest b4 38" is there, it will be something that I will look forward to achieve it. The process will be difficult, of high inertia, of good decision made. But I am sure that I will not live to regret it.
Kami is still smiling when we talked abt Everest. Cheers for yet another exciting and safe climbing for everyone.
Aliying
THe reason for the title of this entry is because we have, with us, a Nepali called Kami. His portfolio is not one to be trifled with - 6 time Everest Summit, summits in Makalu, Arbut Nabut, Shishabangma, 6 times Cho Oyu, etc. This year, he would be leading an American team to Everest via the North side. We wish him a successful siummit bid and a safe climbing year. Seeing Kami remains mi vividly of the good old Nepal days that I had been back in 2003. Skinny, yet fit, dark, humble, always with a smily face, he is very easy to get along with. Even though I do not know him, I was introduced by Jeffrey to him. We quickly get into good bursts of chat. That is further accelerated by the consumption of beer. :)
While we are cheerfully having our dinner, I quietly brought out the small little dream that Jeffrey and I had in a small corner of our heart. We would like to climb Everest. Dr Robert Goh seemed surprised. He mentioned to us that we needed the time, the commitment, the equipment and the most importantly, the training. I dare not say that we will definitely do it and make Singapore proud. Still got the chance to make it single digit to the no of Singaporeans that peaked Everest. But I dare say that as long as "Project Everest b4 38" is there, it will be something that I will look forward to achieve it. The process will be difficult, of high inertia, of good decision made. But I am sure that I will not live to regret it.
Kami is still smiling when we talked abt Everest. Cheers for yet another exciting and safe climbing for everyone.
Aliying
Friday, January 20, 2006
Something abt myself for the last 27 years of my life to come
Many thanks to Mr Miyagi for giving me something to blog:
Four jobs you’ve had in your life
- Waiter (Father Flanagan at Chijmes)
- Construction worker (Singapore)
- Stock Taking (Singapore)
- PSB Cooperation (Singapore)
Four movies you could watch over and over
- Notting Hill
- Shall We dance
- Harry Potter Series
- Everest IMAX
Four places you’ve lived
- 10 mile away from the city Kampung
- Blk 206 Marsiling Drive
- Blk 843 Woodlands St 82 #
- Blk 478 Segar Rd #(my first new home to come)
Four TV shows you love(d) to watch
- Sex and the city
- Naruto
- Gundam Seed and Destiny
- Full Metal Alchemist
Four places you’ve been on vacation
- Banyan Tree Bintan
- Sydney and Melbourne
- South Korea
- Hong Kong
Four jobs you’ve had in your life
- Waiter (Father Flanagan at Chijmes)
- Construction worker (Singapore)
- Stock Taking (Singapore)
- PSB Cooperation (Singapore)
Four movies you could watch over and over
- Notting Hill
- Shall We dance
- Harry Potter Series
- Everest IMAX
Four places you’ve lived
- 10 mile away from the city Kampung
- Blk 206 Marsiling Drive
- Blk 843 Woodlands St 82 #
- Blk 478 Segar Rd #(my first new home to come)
Four TV shows you love(d) to watch
- Sex and the city
- Naruto
- Gundam Seed and Destiny
- Full Metal Alchemist
Four places you’ve been on vacation
- Banyan Tree Bintan
- Sydney and Melbourne
- South Korea
- Hong Kong
Four websites you visit daily
- DBS Internet Banking
- alimin.blogspot.com (Heard that this is good)
- aliying.blogspot.com (Heard that this is even better)
Four of your favourite foods
- Bak Kwa from Lim Chee Guan
- Roast duck rice
- Hakka preserved veg with 3 layers pork
Four places you would rather be
- Sydney- Nepal- Tasmania- New Zealand
Aliying
Wednesday, January 18, 2006
Are Singaporean men losing the edge?
I like to refer to my outstanding view on the below mentioned entry http://aliying.blogspot.com/2006/01/i-came-across-this-minutes-ago-from-mr.html
In a nutshell, it is abt Singaporean men are "not so good after all" - not gentlemen, not considerate, short tempered. There are so many couples out there in Singapore. Bf and gf, sec bf and gf, JC bf and gf, NS bf and gf,NUS bf and gf, husband and wife, just married, just registered their marriage, just had their customary wedding, just had their first baby, etc. Did not attempt to try to find out the no of couples in Singapore, but I think that there is alot. I mean, alot!
My opinion is : This is a chicken and egg problem. There is no right and wrong - there should not be any pointing of the fingers. There is still hope for Singalore men, but we have room for improvement.
To say that I did not struggle throughout my relationship is lying. I myself is the imperfect example. Temper tolerance got shorter, complacency, not SNAG at times, missing out the finer details which ladies really appreciate, late for date (Oh my God), taking my own sweet time, not taking initiative. However, that is what make out a unique Singaporean men.
I had flaws, but as long as I make a genuine effort to improve oneself, I can become a better man. I do need a lot of constant reminding and everyday, I am facing new issues with mypartner. I fight for men's rights too, and if it is negiotable, Min would "sign the agreement" and we close the issue effectively.
In summary, there is still hope for Singaporean man, if we seek to improve one's EQ, common sense and social ettequite. It does not hurt for his lady or counterpart to voice up and discuss the issues.
Aliying
In a nutshell, it is abt Singaporean men are "not so good after all" - not gentlemen, not considerate, short tempered. There are so many couples out there in Singapore. Bf and gf, sec bf and gf, JC bf and gf, NS bf and gf,NUS bf and gf, husband and wife, just married, just registered their marriage, just had their customary wedding, just had their first baby, etc. Did not attempt to try to find out the no of couples in Singapore, but I think that there is alot. I mean, alot!
My opinion is : This is a chicken and egg problem. There is no right and wrong - there should not be any pointing of the fingers. There is still hope for Singalore men, but we have room for improvement.
To say that I did not struggle throughout my relationship is lying. I myself is the imperfect example. Temper tolerance got shorter, complacency, not SNAG at times, missing out the finer details which ladies really appreciate, late for date (Oh my God), taking my own sweet time, not taking initiative. However, that is what make out a unique Singaporean men.
I had flaws, but as long as I make a genuine effort to improve oneself, I can become a better man. I do need a lot of constant reminding and everyday, I am facing new issues with mypartner. I fight for men's rights too, and if it is negiotable, Min would "sign the agreement" and we close the issue effectively.
In summary, there is still hope for Singaporean man, if we seek to improve one's EQ, common sense and social ettequite. It does not hurt for his lady or counterpart to voice up and discuss the issues.
Aliying
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