(and we proceed, before I slip into what is known as procrastination)
Derek Lim
Another one from the Lim Clan. The one with the splutz aura. So many memories with ya. SMP in Sec 3 when we struggled through the biofilm and the endless failures in experimenting together. Soccer when I always tried to lobang you, and you eventually found a way to stop it, unleashing your splutz powers upon me. Nights in Shanghai, and almost everywhere possible, since we were one register number apart. The Harmonizing, the time spent on the piano, the music shared and mutually enjoyed. World Cup finals at your place. Will always remember you for that maturity and those well-thought answers to situations. You calm and steadiness even through crisis. Thanks a million.
Eliel Lim
Another Lim Clanner...but not exactly. Well remembered for dozing off at the most inappropriate times, but equally well remembered for those bursts of inspiration during Lit class! Behind that waterboy-rugger facade lay a very creative mind. Also, who could forget his unique music :P Towards the end of the year, quick feet contributed much to the GEP soccer revolution.
Samuel Loke
Wasn't the closest of friends, but he always sat behind me. Another prefect who perhaps never was. But was inspiring on the soccer pitch. Wish he had come more to BB, perhaps we would have got to know each other better. But we were quite different I guess, personality wise and all, and that hindered any connection. Still, will be remembered for those times in primary school: drawing 'Anipets' the gamebook, and going over to your place to do up that comic for SS. haha.
Kevin
Darren's closest confidant. Weren't close at all, and in all honesty, I thought you were a little strange. Yet, Bio must have helped to bring us a little closer, and soon I realised that you would make a faithful friend, albeit a sticky one (who always called upon me at the most inconvenient moments). Nexus Nexus, SK, SK. That helped as well. And the roughest tackler on the pitch, not to be messed with.
Sean Lim
What to say? Another Lim Clanner. The only faithful Art Club member who followed me through those tumultous years which eventually saw the collapse of our well-loved 'interest group'. We shared the joys of OM together, we played Fifa and owned with Henry on your comp, we tried to form a band, and tried to practice at your place (recall 'Open Up the Gates?). The drummer, at the heart of the rhythm, though he played with an injured right knee (I always forgot which side it was). Bdae party (though i gave the lousiest presents). and the generous giver of the class soccer ball (yellow Nike one). Sorry we got your soccer ball lost to Azman. And who could forget the camper at the opponent's goal.
Tien En
As Fab had mentioned, my fiercest competitor in the exam hall. and he beat me to shreds this year i guess, except for LangArts (oops...what happened?). Remembered for skipping hair checks and coming later just to miss them. Remembered for phoning me during the exam period to query about exam topics. Remembered for over-worrying about the exams with me. Remembered for spontatneously acing the debates with Justin and I. And was the one with the shredded pants :)
Kaijun
Another Chinese Lover. Computer whiz. Enjoyed lessons with Phuan as well. The one who loved physics and math for real (I can't say the same about the former for myself), the one who knew so much yet always did not perform as well in the exams. Another than that, we had some short chats, some memorable times at Bio class. But we could have been closer I guess. Sigh. Always a cheerful helper on the net (since he was mostly always online)
Fabriz
Affectionately known as Fab (you cannot call him 'briz', that's for his parents and if you do he gets mad with you). Stop reading my mind fab. Anyway. Was always the guy I had to sit next to helplessly as he emo-ed away (sometimes over minute issues), but tried to stay faithful to you all the way. the 'best friends' promise in Primary 1 has hopefully not faded away, and we recall those times like the 1C vs 1D fight, the wallet soccer in the cupboard play area, the tennis ball soccer at Ah Hood Road, and finally, the real deal on the astro. BB was so much more exciting with you around (come back won't you?). Always the prolific leader in so many aspects (SK, BB, just to name a few). Newcastle fan. We will always be in each others heart (aww..soppy liao.)
David (Bong)
Because of Mr Jasbir Singh, forever labelled as Bong, and affectionately so. Was the quietest in class, BB and everywhere. Never got to know him, till one day fab and I found him in a library, silently checking a blue screen (SK), and hiding it in secret. Nightshade, Oceanic Core. We tried to smuggle food for Fab from the buffet in Shanghai only to be caught :(. The fastest runner of 4.9, the crazy guy on the soccer pitch. More recently, thanks for becoming more open and chatting more with me, and we've had some meaningful chats outside of games and SK. Hope to continue knowing ya better. Primers!
Clarence Wu
Struggled with Amath, Ding's partner, but I tried to help my best as well. Silent and still, but terrifying apparently. One of those I never got to know intimately, or perhaps even superficially, but nevertheless, one I will remember for those terrible legends in the dark.
Daniel Yeang
And it's pronounced YE-ANG. Avid Leeds and Championship supporter (subject to change once Leeds are promoted to the Premiership). The most serious prefect perhaps, who caught me for eating in class, but was ousted by the Student council, even losing his job as the 'Let's sing our school anthem' person. Always a joy to be around, and always ready to produce a couple of puns and jokes. The funny guy, who I wanted to know better but couldn't. Will remember you though! For all the times we (tried) to have together.
And that ends it. 4.9 Role call done. We look forward now to the new year ahead. And let our blogposts be a testimony to the bond we share. And may we always stay in each others' hearts!
Tuesday, October 31, 2006
Sunday, October 29, 2006
Impromptu Goodbye
Still stuck in that mood. Perhaps it's ian's music. Impromptu goodbyes, and just like this piece, impromptu. I could never replicate this piece lest I went back to that same mood I was in when I was playing yesterday, during the thunderstorm and all. Aww...(yes you can hear the thunder gurgle within the first 10 seconds). Forgive the mistakes, forgive the fuzziness. Haha. All the screwups are like when one messes up the goodbye. sigh.
Btw. I still I'll leave a jukebox on my blog, on the right panel with the rest of the stuff. And yes, i'll include ian's piece :)
-=Impromptu Goodbye=-
enjoy. And comments haha..if anyone comes that is :D
Btw. I still I'll leave a jukebox on my blog, on the right panel with the rest of the stuff. And yes, i'll include ian's piece :)
-=Impromptu Goodbye=-
enjoy. And comments haha..if anyone comes that is :D
Friday, October 27, 2006
4.9 Role Call (Register 1 to 15)
(well...I thought I'd better do this...for remembrance's sake. Don't forget below k? There's a piano piece I wish to share)
And so the roll call begins. For every name, a few memories. Let's begin. Register number-wise, in no order of merit (unless you love Arjun so).
Arjun Naidu:
Affectionately known on the soccer pitch as Black Lightning. Faster than a bullet. Spectacles always seem to come loose during soccer. Top boy in Tamil (arguably it is true). The true meaning of multi-racialism in this class. We used to tease him about his facial and bodily hair, but that has simmered down as well. No racist jokes in this class (hopefully). Quite intelligent as well.
Chen Ted Kin:
The embodiment of Okwonkwo, not to be messed with on the pitch, though occasionally he gets the ball and runs fast circles around the pitch only to get nowhere. Mighty mouse perhaps, vertically challenged but incredibly strong. Piper, fan of the Scots, Sword of Honor. Wow. 4000 years in the making, known for his many years spent on earth, and wisdom as a result.
Daryl Lim:
Finds me annoying, as with all his other friends, haha. Big thinker, I find it difficult following his blog posts at times. Head Librarian, lover of his Mother Tongue. Hierophant is his blogging alias. Well-read, well-versed, admired for his analytical nature (which i'm oft too bubbly to embrace). Or maybe it's just me who admires. And always makes me feel so shallow k? :P
Ding Si Yan:
Very missed. Left in June with his family. Lover of nature, recycled paper, crumpled sheets, writings in pencil. Used to talk on the phone for hours...haha. Missed those times, pity he had to leave in our last year together. Was always the magic touch on the soccer field, with his flicks and tricks, yet remaining completely humble at all times. Found me 'doggy', I guess that's why I'm unbearable at times. Taught me to walk down the stairs two steps at a time, always walked at my running pace, and was always HiDING somewhere. Come back soon Ding!
Elliot Tan:
Whenever there was some problem with the teacher's computer, MR boy! Used to be known as the Elliot Moose thing, which was quite some time ago...hmmm. Always a pleasure to have in class, adding his humorus antics, his whacky presentations. Sat behind me for most part of the year. Wasn't the closest of friends, but appreciated very much for that sense of humor.
Eric Lee:
Leaving soon, We'll miss you! But not for your grumpiness or emo-ness, but for all the times you were bubbly and livened up the class atmosphere. Stay close to God, stay cheery, and may you be blessed greatly in wherever you go! Lover of guitars as well, always seeking to strum on my guitar whenever I brought it along. Use your talents and glorify Christ! Stay Positive!
Gea ChongWee:
As I've mentioned before, disturbing. Had the dubious honor of sitting next to him during Sec 2. Kept touching me and left me emotionally and psychologically scarred. Non-Christian, but I tried, sowing some seeds, that will hopefully grow in future years. Odd, but nevertheless one of those who would make a great and faithful friend, sensitive to your needs especially when you're down. Hilarious at times as well...don't we all agree?
Philip Goh:
Trend-setter. Whether it was chess, the mass transfer chess craze of Sec 2, or the Rubik's Cube or this year, or simply continuing the trend of SK, he was always the driving force. Not to forget, a quick learner, who always beats his masters in the end (DOTA, SK...endless examples). The 'Malay' (still i don't know why). I remember fab and I accusing him for cheating on SK last time...haha...that caused some rifts, but everything is fine now (note: in retrospect, it was probably something bred out of a blend of envy and paranoia...nothing against phil, nor any accusations here, I felt he was innocent at the very end). :D Thanks for teaching me F2L and the whole solving thing.
Kenneth Ho:
Kenny Kenny. The most faithful French student who lasted through 4 years of torment. Slips into occasional bouts of emo-ness (who doesn't?). Had a blast during IBA with Kenny and Fab. Probably my greatest soccer buddy, as we built up for nothingness to the standard we are at now (which is arguably better). Always colliding with me on the soccer pitch, and always nutmegging me as well. We grew together, and aimed for the top-right corner of the goal post together, and missed together. More recently, the DOTA master. But let's not remember each other for games, but for the friendship.
Ian Lim:
Memories of Lim Clan stream back in. The elf with the big ears. The guitarist. The pianist. The soloist during busking. And who could forget that busking? where we played and amused ourselves in a little underpass in Orchard. We tickled each other, and got annoyed with one another. Dengue fever some time ago. More recently, we've not been as close as in Sec 2, but still, I hope the friendship will live on. Enjoyed the laughs. Llama. PangSai. Itchy. Pomelo. We will never forget.
Joash Ee:
My 5 sitting partners for the second half of the year. Surprisingly good friend, and we had the chance to grow closer this year. White hairs and wisdom. And i guess our trust grew to a point that he allowed me to pluck out one of those silver hairs yesterday. Goalkeeper potential, great and fast tackler. Loves to eat. I recall the primary school 'stomach battles'.
John Chen:
Absent more often than not. I'm sure everyone will remember him for that. Came to me for all the Biology help, if not went to Tien. Tall and outstanding, he was a Literature whiz in the Sec 2 Lit exam. I think he would be excellent if not for that poor attendance record. Went all the way to almost the Semi-finals in the inter-class soccer some time ago, pulling off 2 fine saves :D.
Darren:
Always one of the lonely ones. I tried to get to know him, having sat next to him for some time this year (if my memory does not fail me). We got to know each other mostly through those gatherings at Ken Wei's place, those sleepless nights and endless gaming. Closest buddy in class Kevin. Fab's Love Hina source toward the end of the year. DOTA (sand) King. Opened up more as time went by, and I managed to chat a little yesterday, albeit too late. Still, would make a pleasant friend I guess.
Justin Lee:
One of those bubbly kids, but a tragic family background at that. I think I had some relation to him, my dad knowing either his mum or aunt. Well, for such a guy, angsty in secret, but always bringing joy to the classroom. We had times of chatting whilst walking back to our homes (Dover Park View and Heritage View). Debated alongside him. Well known for spontaneous outbursts. And OM debut as some sweeper guy :P.
Patrick Leow:
Or the starfish. The prefect who never was. Join IB k? I guess I never got to knew him well, except in the Kluang camp this year. haha. The rugby T-shirt thing.
(and now...a break...nostalgia is time and energy consuming I guess.)
And so the roll call begins. For every name, a few memories. Let's begin. Register number-wise, in no order of merit (unless you love Arjun so).
Arjun Naidu:
Affectionately known on the soccer pitch as Black Lightning. Faster than a bullet. Spectacles always seem to come loose during soccer. Top boy in Tamil (arguably it is true). The true meaning of multi-racialism in this class. We used to tease him about his facial and bodily hair, but that has simmered down as well. No racist jokes in this class (hopefully). Quite intelligent as well.
Chen Ted Kin:
The embodiment of Okwonkwo, not to be messed with on the pitch, though occasionally he gets the ball and runs fast circles around the pitch only to get nowhere. Mighty mouse perhaps, vertically challenged but incredibly strong. Piper, fan of the Scots, Sword of Honor. Wow. 4000 years in the making, known for his many years spent on earth, and wisdom as a result.
Daryl Lim:
Finds me annoying, as with all his other friends, haha. Big thinker, I find it difficult following his blog posts at times. Head Librarian, lover of his Mother Tongue. Hierophant is his blogging alias. Well-read, well-versed, admired for his analytical nature (which i'm oft too bubbly to embrace). Or maybe it's just me who admires. And always makes me feel so shallow k? :P
Ding Si Yan:
Very missed. Left in June with his family. Lover of nature, recycled paper, crumpled sheets, writings in pencil. Used to talk on the phone for hours...haha. Missed those times, pity he had to leave in our last year together. Was always the magic touch on the soccer field, with his flicks and tricks, yet remaining completely humble at all times. Found me 'doggy', I guess that's why I'm unbearable at times. Taught me to walk down the stairs two steps at a time, always walked at my running pace, and was always HiDING somewhere. Come back soon Ding!
Elliot Tan:
Whenever there was some problem with the teacher's computer, MR boy! Used to be known as the Elliot Moose thing, which was quite some time ago...hmmm. Always a pleasure to have in class, adding his humorus antics, his whacky presentations. Sat behind me for most part of the year. Wasn't the closest of friends, but appreciated very much for that sense of humor.
Eric Lee:
Leaving soon, We'll miss you! But not for your grumpiness or emo-ness, but for all the times you were bubbly and livened up the class atmosphere. Stay close to God, stay cheery, and may you be blessed greatly in wherever you go! Lover of guitars as well, always seeking to strum on my guitar whenever I brought it along. Use your talents and glorify Christ! Stay Positive!
Gea ChongWee:
As I've mentioned before, disturbing. Had the dubious honor of sitting next to him during Sec 2. Kept touching me and left me emotionally and psychologically scarred. Non-Christian, but I tried, sowing some seeds, that will hopefully grow in future years. Odd, but nevertheless one of those who would make a great and faithful friend, sensitive to your needs especially when you're down. Hilarious at times as well...don't we all agree?
Philip Goh:
Trend-setter. Whether it was chess, the mass transfer chess craze of Sec 2, or the Rubik's Cube or this year, or simply continuing the trend of SK, he was always the driving force. Not to forget, a quick learner, who always beats his masters in the end (DOTA, SK...endless examples). The 'Malay' (still i don't know why). I remember fab and I accusing him for cheating on SK last time...haha...that caused some rifts, but everything is fine now (note: in retrospect, it was probably something bred out of a blend of envy and paranoia...nothing against phil, nor any accusations here, I felt he was innocent at the very end). :D Thanks for teaching me F2L and the whole solving thing.
Kenneth Ho:
Kenny Kenny. The most faithful French student who lasted through 4 years of torment. Slips into occasional bouts of emo-ness (who doesn't?). Had a blast during IBA with Kenny and Fab. Probably my greatest soccer buddy, as we built up for nothingness to the standard we are at now (which is arguably better). Always colliding with me on the soccer pitch, and always nutmegging me as well. We grew together, and aimed for the top-right corner of the goal post together, and missed together. More recently, the DOTA master. But let's not remember each other for games, but for the friendship.
Ian Lim:
Memories of Lim Clan stream back in. The elf with the big ears. The guitarist. The pianist. The soloist during busking. And who could forget that busking? where we played and amused ourselves in a little underpass in Orchard. We tickled each other, and got annoyed with one another. Dengue fever some time ago. More recently, we've not been as close as in Sec 2, but still, I hope the friendship will live on. Enjoyed the laughs. Llama. PangSai. Itchy. Pomelo. We will never forget.
Joash Ee:
My 5 sitting partners for the second half of the year. Surprisingly good friend, and we had the chance to grow closer this year. White hairs and wisdom. And i guess our trust grew to a point that he allowed me to pluck out one of those silver hairs yesterday. Goalkeeper potential, great and fast tackler. Loves to eat. I recall the primary school 'stomach battles'.
John Chen:
Absent more often than not. I'm sure everyone will remember him for that. Came to me for all the Biology help, if not went to Tien. Tall and outstanding, he was a Literature whiz in the Sec 2 Lit exam. I think he would be excellent if not for that poor attendance record. Went all the way to almost the Semi-finals in the inter-class soccer some time ago, pulling off 2 fine saves :D.
Darren:
Always one of the lonely ones. I tried to get to know him, having sat next to him for some time this year (if my memory does not fail me). We got to know each other mostly through those gatherings at Ken Wei's place, those sleepless nights and endless gaming. Closest buddy in class Kevin. Fab's Love Hina source toward the end of the year. DOTA (sand) King. Opened up more as time went by, and I managed to chat a little yesterday, albeit too late. Still, would make a pleasant friend I guess.
Justin Lee:
One of those bubbly kids, but a tragic family background at that. I think I had some relation to him, my dad knowing either his mum or aunt. Well, for such a guy, angsty in secret, but always bringing joy to the classroom. We had times of chatting whilst walking back to our homes (Dover Park View and Heritage View). Debated alongside him. Well known for spontaneous outbursts. And OM debut as some sweeper guy :P.
Patrick Leow:
Or the starfish. The prefect who never was. Join IB k? I guess I never got to knew him well, except in the Kluang camp this year. haha. The rugby T-shirt thing.
(and now...a break...nostalgia is time and energy consuming I guess.)
4.9 Diaspora
And so it is. The end of that long and fun-filled Secondary 4 road. The beginning of new times and challenges ahead. I've composed a piece, hmmm, in fact, it was from quite some time ago, but it sounded so appropriate for this moment. 'Journey To Light', as named aptly by Fab. and Fab mentioned it sounded like a train ride. To which i was quite surprised, but upon hearing it again, it did sound like a train ride: and before me appeared the painting of a train, chugging along into the distant sunset. Slowly, and in melodramatic fashion. (again..bear with the fuzziness)
-=Journey To Light=-
Imagine, all of us, travelling on another journey to light. One day we'll meet again, in school, in heaven, for an eternity :D
And I will do some shoutout thing later. Just to remember everyone in class. But for now, I'll leave this piano piece, and some lyrics below.
The Blessing
Steven Curtis Chapman
-=Journey To Light=-
Imagine, all of us, travelling on another journey to light. One day we'll meet again, in school, in heaven, for an eternity :D
And I will do some shoutout thing later. Just to remember everyone in class. But for now, I'll leave this piano piece, and some lyrics below.
The Blessing
Steven Curtis Chapman
Let's not say another word, we don't need to question why.
Let us pass through this moment like a candle in the night.
We don't need to wave it back.
This is not the final song.
Even though in the sadness tears may fall.
Take my smile, hold it in your heart forever.
And I will be with you wherever you may go.
How much pain must we taste.
How much sorrow must we know.
Will be only nothing losing.
How to cherish when we go.
How agony is like the wind we can hold it in our hands.
In the light of a new day we will understand.
Take my smile, hold it in your heart forever.
And I will be with you wherever you may go.
May the road rise to meet you on your way.
May the sun always shine upon your face.
And until the journey brings us back together.
May God hold you in the center of His hands.
bye 4.9 2006, we will miss each other, but it won't be an eternity
Let us pass through this moment like a candle in the night.
We don't need to wave it back.
This is not the final song.
Even though in the sadness tears may fall.
Take my smile, hold it in your heart forever.
And I will be with you wherever you may go.
How much pain must we taste.
How much sorrow must we know.
Will be only nothing losing.
How to cherish when we go.
How agony is like the wind we can hold it in our hands.
In the light of a new day we will understand.
Take my smile, hold it in your heart forever.
And I will be with you wherever you may go.
May the road rise to meet you on your way.
May the sun always shine upon your face.
And until the journey brings us back together.
May God hold you in the center of His hands.
bye 4.9 2006, we will miss each other, but it won't be an eternity
Tuesday, October 24, 2006
Shanghai Memories
As the school year comes to a close, one can only start reminiscing about the events of the past two years, the fun we had together, the laughter we shared, the scoldings we endured together. Something inspired me sometime back, a musical piece (perhaps you might call it that), something that struck me while I was on the piano. I thought i might as well share it with all - as I hope I will do with all future compositions.
Well, as one listens to this, just think back, relax and enjoy the air of nostalgia. And don't play it too loud, because in all honesty the sound quality can still be improved, and it is fuzzy at times :D
comments appreciated, as always (I'm starting to feel like I'm posting a blogskin):
-=Shanghai Memories=-
If you love it so much (I doubt so though), you could right-click and save link as :)
till next time...
Well, as one listens to this, just think back, relax and enjoy the air of nostalgia. And don't play it too loud, because in all honesty the sound quality can still be improved, and it is fuzzy at times :D
comments appreciated, as always (I'm starting to feel like I'm posting a blogskin):
-=Shanghai Memories=-
If you love it so much (I doubt so though), you could right-click and save link as :)
till next time...
Wednesday, October 18, 2006
我愿变成童话里...
sigh. The karaoke competition today could have been much much better (and that's being very nice already). With all honestly i did look forward to a repeat of last year's karaoke competition, where the whole old auditorium was filled with songs and music and singing, and the 'wow!' atmosphere. But it didn't happen.
The music was kind of muffled for the most part. Was Derek doing the MR? haha splutz. I felt quite bad for the singers on stage, as they (arguably) embarassed themselves on stage, singing out of tune, or trying desperately to hear themselves and the music in the background. Mdm Loo and I exchanged puzzled looks (or was it sympathy). Either way, everyone was quite disappointed.
Still we had an OK time singing along when the music finally became fine (haha during the bubble blowing performance). And the stunning teacher performances.
Bought a Chinese book today. Cross my fingers and hope I get down to reading.
On another note, soccer was qutie interesting today. Phil scored two goals in a minute. Bong tried hard not to laugh.
Hamachi + Dota + Kenny + Darren = quite fun indeed. Just praying that I don't get addicted. There has to be a limit I guess :D
Results day tomorrow. De-day. God Bless. :D
The music was kind of muffled for the most part. Was Derek doing the MR? haha splutz. I felt quite bad for the singers on stage, as they (arguably) embarassed themselves on stage, singing out of tune, or trying desperately to hear themselves and the music in the background. Mdm Loo and I exchanged puzzled looks (or was it sympathy). Either way, everyone was quite disappointed.
Still we had an OK time singing along when the music finally became fine (haha during the bubble blowing performance). And the stunning teacher performances.
Bought a Chinese book today. Cross my fingers and hope I get down to reading.
On another note, soccer was qutie interesting today. Phil scored two goals in a minute. Bong tried hard not to laugh.
Hamachi + Dota + Kenny + Darren = quite fun indeed. Just praying that I don't get addicted. There has to be a limit I guess :D
Results day tomorrow. De-day. God Bless. :D
Tuesday, October 17, 2006
The Sleeve Issue
And so, in recent years, people have started to notice Tim for a very odd habit, of pulling up his shirt sleeves. Many of us question why such a person would do such a very odd thing. After all, he is perhaps the only guy (arguably it is true) in the whole school who does such a thing. Why then? Another one of those mysteries of life that we should try to delve into.
Perhaps some form of childhood trauma has caused him to develop in such a way, perhaps somewhere along his life he met with some scarring tragedy. People with traumatic childhood experiences have been found out to be more prone to adopting or developing queer habits.
Not that the strange folding of sleeves is wrong, it is just wrong for any guy in his right mind to do such a thing, after all it is only the girls who do such a thing. Yet Tim seems least bothered by such a fact, and continually and stubbornly does it. It is a strange phenomena indeed. I wish I knew why too.
Maybe it is for comfort, maybe it is more comfortable to have your sleeves up. How can that be so - you may ask. But perhaps different people feel differently about different things.
But ultimately, as with all mysteries, we can only speculate, and wonder and think up of all the reasons we could possibly conjure. But ultimately, and in the end, perhaps the only conclusion we can make is that Tim is different from the rest (in other words. Weird).
Let's keep tugging down on his sleeves to remind him, shall we?
Perhaps some form of childhood trauma has caused him to develop in such a way, perhaps somewhere along his life he met with some scarring tragedy. People with traumatic childhood experiences have been found out to be more prone to adopting or developing queer habits.
Not that the strange folding of sleeves is wrong, it is just wrong for any guy in his right mind to do such a thing, after all it is only the girls who do such a thing. Yet Tim seems least bothered by such a fact, and continually and stubbornly does it. It is a strange phenomena indeed. I wish I knew why too.
Maybe it is for comfort, maybe it is more comfortable to have your sleeves up. How can that be so - you may ask. But perhaps different people feel differently about different things.
But ultimately, as with all mysteries, we can only speculate, and wonder and think up of all the reasons we could possibly conjure. But ultimately, and in the end, perhaps the only conclusion we can make is that Tim is different from the rest (in other words. Weird).
Let's keep tugging down on his sleeves to remind him, shall we?
Friday, October 13, 2006
Rendezvous at MacRitchie
(Warning: Long narrative-like post ahead)
Word of the day (or these few days) would probably 'rendezvous'.
In classic fashion, trying to use a big word, Tim told Derek that he had a secret rendezvous on Wednesday, and had to leave soccer early as a result. Needless to say, being 'his usual smart self', Tim pronouned the word as it was spelt, the full three syllables. 'Ren' (rhyming with 'Ben'), 'Dez' (the 'e' as pronouned in 'mess'), and 'Vous' (as in mischievous). That was quite amusing, and it cracked Derek up. Soon the news was spread to the whole world.
How was one to know that it was a French word!? Kenny was there to teach me the next day at MacRitchie SL, we did have a fun French lesson, even as Kenny was musing over the Third Language lesson which he was missing that afternoon. In greater mockery of my wrong pronunciation, the Raffles girls were all wearing T-shirts (yes sean...with 'tim-style' folded sleeves) with the bolded words 'Raffles' Rendezvous' printed across. Derek was the first to point it out...not surprisingly.
So, perhaps I should comment a little on the whole SL experience. It wasn't too bad. But so few people went. And it was quite disappointing in that sense. Expected more, but there were so many things to be done, people had so many appointments, people had so many other important things to be done, people didn't feel like coming, people went overseas, people had issues to tend to, or people were just bo-chap. No offence to anyone in particular, let's just leave 'people' as 'people' in general and not go around pointing fingers now (we cannot forget that when one points a finger, he points three at himself)
In a word, it was tiring. The walk from Venus Drive, past the scenic route, with the winding road, the country club, the long grass, the lone jackfruit hanging from the tree, the occasional caterpillar thing climbing up the silken thread, the tortise, and the 'food-snatching monkeys, was just long and almost weary. The first day started off on a terrible note. Not having a handphone, it was uncustomary of me to take down the handphone number of anyone, so I did not have Benjamin's (the Big Leader Guy's) number. Unfortunately this meant waiting an eternity for them to arrive. We limboed under the road blocking thing, played carnival games (tossing wood into tree trunk holes from afar), to keep ourselves busy. But eventually still had to walk into the park by ourself.
At least the air-conditioned room was a comforting reception. We were introduced to the map of the tree-top walk, and how we were to set up the 100m by 200m plot of land for a research project - The research project being a census of the tree species present in the tropical rainforest. It was to 'inventorise', monitor tree dynamics and reach out to the public, so i guess in it's own funny way it was 'service-learning'. We were to set up the plot of land, using the tree-top walk bridge as the middle guide.
And so we set off, with white long spars, tent pegs, mallets, raffia, water bottles in hand. Splitting into two groups. Sean, Phil and Kenny went up to the bridge to drop raffia lines as gauges for the points along the bridge (25m, 50m, 100m, 150m, 175m). Bong (or Boone), Ian, Chongwee and I took the bottom of the bridge, and were to receive these lines and peg them down into the ground. Needless to say, we had a blast trying to position the lines at a perpendicular to the ground. Was more difficult considering we were working along a slope, and the lines were being dropped from like 50m above :P.
We placed our water bottles in a little corner at the foot of a tree trunk. An hour later, Ian claimed they were infested by ants.
After this ardous task, we were asked to walk outwards 50m to the left and right of the bridge, perpendicularly, in order to get the 100m width of the plot (recall the raffia that was dropped from above was to obtain the points of lengthwise distance in the middle of the plot). We had like 100m long measuring tape that had snapped off at midway between 32m (oh gosh...i still remember these details). With the measuring tape in hand, we walked 50m straight into the forest to the left first. Of course we had the help of Naga.
Which brings us to the rangers (don't get excited Bong) - Janet (da jie jie) and Christopher (Tarzan Boy). Plus they had the secret weapon Naga, with the parang. We all thought it was an inanimate object till we realised that Naga was an Indian worker there. Decked in blue t-shirt and wielding a parang, speaking broken english. Undoubtedly one of our best pals by the end of the two days.
So Naga hacked and we followed, and Ian and I emerged into this clearing with (lo and behold) lots and lots of pitcher plants!!! There were countless of them, apparently the sort that, with some decoration could probably fetch a price of close to ten dollars. It was a moment filled with amazement. Following that, we planted the second white pole into the soil.
The third pole was pretty much the same, but we went the other way, and it was tougher...a little. And so the third ian was planted in (we called the poles 'ian' because they were long, white and thin...amazing stuff!)
Then Benjamin came for quality check, and realised that we were seriously seriously off for the first pole. Ian sighed. I sighed. We knew we had to redo it. This time we were taught to use a compass. I still remember those horrible bearings (022, 112, 202, 292). I think we did a better job the second time, though all in all we had walked a total of more than 400m through the dense foilage. We finally got some rest later.
That was Ian and I. Chongwee and Bong were further outward from the ranger station, pegging in the remaining tent pegs along the bridge. I decided to pay the rest a visit - those on the bridge. When I found them, they were staring into space, horribly tired. Well, that's expected. Honestly, we had it worse...(but everyone thinks that of themselves), but admittedly they had got more sun. Either way, Chongwee was belting out the loudest, and he sounded like one of those exotic birds of paradise in the forest. Bong remained calm and silent even though he was next to the most agitated person of our gang.
Lunch was fine. Chicken rice (i still don't get the joke). Chilli (thanks for that Kenny...). We were recharged...maybe....but that was when everything turned emo...especially Kenny...
(to be continued - for time reasons....yes it is 12 midnite now)
Word of the day (or these few days) would probably 'rendezvous'.
In classic fashion, trying to use a big word, Tim told Derek that he had a secret rendezvous on Wednesday, and had to leave soccer early as a result. Needless to say, being 'his usual smart self', Tim pronouned the word as it was spelt, the full three syllables. 'Ren' (rhyming with 'Ben'), 'Dez' (the 'e' as pronouned in 'mess'), and 'Vous' (as in mischievous). That was quite amusing, and it cracked Derek up. Soon the news was spread to the whole world.
How was one to know that it was a French word!? Kenny was there to teach me the next day at MacRitchie SL, we did have a fun French lesson, even as Kenny was musing over the Third Language lesson which he was missing that afternoon. In greater mockery of my wrong pronunciation, the Raffles girls were all wearing T-shirts (yes sean...with 'tim-style' folded sleeves) with the bolded words 'Raffles' Rendezvous' printed across. Derek was the first to point it out...not surprisingly.
So, perhaps I should comment a little on the whole SL experience. It wasn't too bad. But so few people went. And it was quite disappointing in that sense. Expected more, but there were so many things to be done, people had so many appointments, people had so many other important things to be done, people didn't feel like coming, people went overseas, people had issues to tend to, or people were just bo-chap. No offence to anyone in particular, let's just leave 'people' as 'people' in general and not go around pointing fingers now (we cannot forget that when one points a finger, he points three at himself)
In a word, it was tiring. The walk from Venus Drive, past the scenic route, with the winding road, the country club, the long grass, the lone jackfruit hanging from the tree, the occasional caterpillar thing climbing up the silken thread, the tortise, and the 'food-snatching monkeys, was just long and almost weary. The first day started off on a terrible note. Not having a handphone, it was uncustomary of me to take down the handphone number of anyone, so I did not have Benjamin's (the Big Leader Guy's) number. Unfortunately this meant waiting an eternity for them to arrive. We limboed under the road blocking thing, played carnival games (tossing wood into tree trunk holes from afar), to keep ourselves busy. But eventually still had to walk into the park by ourself.
At least the air-conditioned room was a comforting reception. We were introduced to the map of the tree-top walk, and how we were to set up the 100m by 200m plot of land for a research project - The research project being a census of the tree species present in the tropical rainforest. It was to 'inventorise', monitor tree dynamics and reach out to the public, so i guess in it's own funny way it was 'service-learning'. We were to set up the plot of land, using the tree-top walk bridge as the middle guide.
And so we set off, with white long spars, tent pegs, mallets, raffia, water bottles in hand. Splitting into two groups. Sean, Phil and Kenny went up to the bridge to drop raffia lines as gauges for the points along the bridge (25m, 50m, 100m, 150m, 175m). Bong (or Boone), Ian, Chongwee and I took the bottom of the bridge, and were to receive these lines and peg them down into the ground. Needless to say, we had a blast trying to position the lines at a perpendicular to the ground. Was more difficult considering we were working along a slope, and the lines were being dropped from like 50m above :P.
We placed our water bottles in a little corner at the foot of a tree trunk. An hour later, Ian claimed they were infested by ants.
After this ardous task, we were asked to walk outwards 50m to the left and right of the bridge, perpendicularly, in order to get the 100m width of the plot (recall the raffia that was dropped from above was to obtain the points of lengthwise distance in the middle of the plot). We had like 100m long measuring tape that had snapped off at midway between 32m (oh gosh...i still remember these details). With the measuring tape in hand, we walked 50m straight into the forest to the left first. Of course we had the help of Naga.
Which brings us to the rangers (don't get excited Bong) - Janet (da jie jie) and Christopher (Tarzan Boy). Plus they had the secret weapon Naga, with the parang. We all thought it was an inanimate object till we realised that Naga was an Indian worker there. Decked in blue t-shirt and wielding a parang, speaking broken english. Undoubtedly one of our best pals by the end of the two days.
So Naga hacked and we followed, and Ian and I emerged into this clearing with (lo and behold) lots and lots of pitcher plants!!! There were countless of them, apparently the sort that, with some decoration could probably fetch a price of close to ten dollars. It was a moment filled with amazement. Following that, we planted the second white pole into the soil.
The third pole was pretty much the same, but we went the other way, and it was tougher...a little. And so the third ian was planted in (we called the poles 'ian' because they were long, white and thin...amazing stuff!)
Then Benjamin came for quality check, and realised that we were seriously seriously off for the first pole. Ian sighed. I sighed. We knew we had to redo it. This time we were taught to use a compass. I still remember those horrible bearings (022, 112, 202, 292). I think we did a better job the second time, though all in all we had walked a total of more than 400m through the dense foilage. We finally got some rest later.
That was Ian and I. Chongwee and Bong were further outward from the ranger station, pegging in the remaining tent pegs along the bridge. I decided to pay the rest a visit - those on the bridge. When I found them, they were staring into space, horribly tired. Well, that's expected. Honestly, we had it worse...(but everyone thinks that of themselves), but admittedly they had got more sun. Either way, Chongwee was belting out the loudest, and he sounded like one of those exotic birds of paradise in the forest. Bong remained calm and silent even though he was next to the most agitated person of our gang.
Lunch was fine. Chicken rice (i still don't get the joke). Chilli (thanks for that Kenny...). We were recharged...maybe....but that was when everything turned emo...especially Kenny...
(to be continued - for time reasons....yes it is 12 midnite now)
Friday, October 06, 2006
Calm After the Storm
(first one to notice this blog's back alive wins :P)
And so it ends. well almost.
Amath paper today marked the end of a really tiring week of exams. Went to school feeling all great and relaxed today. Came home and slacked on the com for a better part of 2 hours. Practiced piano and drove myself silly with some bulgarian Bartok (ha! i spelt that right) piece. It's pretty much over. But Chinese needs a little preparation. And math just needs a little sustained effort. A little more to go. Let's not slip at the last leg.
Now Bong seems to think that we should work ourselves flat...even over this weekend. So that the feeling on Wednesday will be even greater. According to his philosophy, it's more crappy to be half-slack than to work and then be completely slack. Well depends on what kind of person you are. As for myself...the blogging today already says all.
I think i've lost the touch to blogging. That's terrible. Really. But let's try to regain that ability shall we.
Sigh. There is Macritchie tree counting to be done next week. A little of a terrible anti-climax actually...since it's on the marking days.
And as Ding continues to study abroad (school's on now), we await the end of the school year...and a really really sad breaking up of the GEP batch 2003 :(
And so it ends. well almost.
Amath paper today marked the end of a really tiring week of exams. Went to school feeling all great and relaxed today. Came home and slacked on the com for a better part of 2 hours. Practiced piano and drove myself silly with some bulgarian Bartok (ha! i spelt that right) piece. It's pretty much over. But Chinese needs a little preparation. And math just needs a little sustained effort. A little more to go. Let's not slip at the last leg.
Now Bong seems to think that we should work ourselves flat...even over this weekend. So that the feeling on Wednesday will be even greater. According to his philosophy, it's more crappy to be half-slack than to work and then be completely slack. Well depends on what kind of person you are. As for myself...the blogging today already says all.
I think i've lost the touch to blogging. That's terrible. Really. But let's try to regain that ability shall we.
Sigh. There is Macritchie tree counting to be done next week. A little of a terrible anti-climax actually...since it's on the marking days.
And as Ding continues to study abroad (school's on now), we await the end of the school year...and a really really sad breaking up of the GEP batch 2003 :(
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