Steph's Blog

Exams Are Coming!!!

noreply@blogger.com (Steph) — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 15:27:00 +0000

Wow...I haven't blogged for about 2 months! Unbelievable! Haha...it's because I am busy. Now that I am in my 2nd year, I have projects and heavy subjects to study for. Hm...hopefully all will be well...lol.

Okay...since exams are coming, I'll blogged something about the exams. I have been studying the exam papers of different subjects since my first year and semester and interestingly there's a pattern. Do you know what it is? You know how some papers are essay-type and how some papers are MCQ-type...well, even though they may be different there's still a common question amongst them all. It was "discovered" through one of our informal study groups.

Friend A: I think fracture will come-out in the exams.
Friend B: You mean the one with the linearization?
A: Yeah.
B: Okay, so Steph, what do you think will come out in the exam?
Me: So fast arh? It's my turn already?
A: Yeah, we all thought of a question that will come out for the exam, now it's your turn.
Me: Hm...let me think.

So I flipped through the lecture notes and past year papers. After a few seconds of suspense...

Me: Ah hah!
A: What?
Me: I realized something. I spotted a question...a very important question.
B: Which one?
Me: The first question in the exam.
A: So what about it?
Me: Well, the first and most important question in the exam is your matriculation number!

So dear friends, please don't forget to answer the first question which is your matriculation number.

Now for something inspirational. I found this inspiring video from YouTube. It's about a girl and her hard work. It's pretty inspiring. Enjoy.

All the best for your exams :D

Back In Singapore

noreply@blogger.com (Steph) — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 14:10:00 +0000

Hello! I've been away for so long...yeah I know. Why? Because I missed 2 weeks of school and had to catch up with it. Haiz...it's a lot of work I must say. Anyway, I reached Singapore at around midnight...like 1am. There I met Azaria and her friend and passed to Azaria her luggage. After that my parents brought me home. It was a tiring flight. 11 hours from San Francisco to Narita and 7 hours from Narita to Singapore. I reached home at around 2am and unpacked for awhile before going to sleep.

I slept for a few hours as I have classes in the morning. So I slept for around 6 hours. Then I walked out of my home and went to NTU. Wah...got SBS bus leh...

I reached NTU and waited to see who I would see first. I went to the lecture hall and saw one of my friend. I said hi to him and he was like "Hey! You are back!". Yes, I am back. The lecture was pretty hard to understand as I missed quite a lot of classes liao. I won't say I understand 100%...maybe around 50%? Jia lat man. Anyway, after that I went to library and met some of my other friends. Most of them said something in common. "Hey...you look tan!". Yeah that was what they said. They said I look darker...lol. Also they mentioned that my hair was pretty long. It was long as I didn't cut it for 2 months...haha...can you believe that? There was this friend who said something like this...

Friend: Wah...you look darker.
Me: Haha...I know. A lot of people say that. Is my hair long?
Friend: Yeah...it's quite long.
Me: I know...I was planning to cut it.
Friend: It's long in a fashionable sense.

Lol...what does he mean by "fashionable"? I don't know. Anyway I just cut my hair last week. So it's short now. School was pretty long as Tuesday is my long day. After that I ate dinner at took the bus back home. Whoa...the experience on the bus was...nostalgic. It has been a long time since I tapped my EZ-Link card and hear the *beep* sound...lol.

Another thing I missed about Singapore is the food! Lol...carrot cake, chicken rice, tau huey (beancurd), prata, cheng thing, bak kut teh...etc. Wah the food here is nice loh...but so unhealthy...lol.

However, there are some things that I don't miss at all. For example the weather. After bathing, I sweat after a few minutes...lol. It's so humid and sunny here man, unlike in Berkeley where you hardly sweat. Anyway, I don't really walk as much as I did in Berkeley here in Singapore because of the weather. In Berkeley and San Francisco, I used to walk a lot...like 7km or so. But here...lol. From house to bus stop already can sweat...it's humid man.

Another thing I noticed is that the people here are generally less friendly as the ones in Berkeley. Why do I say so? Simple. There was once I was taking the lift to my floor. Inside was an auntie. She saw me and I walked towards the lift. I thought that she pressed the "Door open" button for me so that I can enter. So I said "Thank you". However, when I walked in the door closed! Can you imagine that? I looked at her and her face was black...lol. Diao...and she didn't say sorry! -_- Welcome to Singapore. Okay not all Singaporeans are like that but encountering such a situation in just the first day is really...how you say...not very nice...lol.

This semester will be a busy one for me as I have CCA and projects to handle.

One thing I noticed...I've been writing less and less...lol. Could it be that...haha...hopefully not. This blog has been running since 2005.

I don't know why but I still feel tired and sleepy...lol. Must be the jetlag. Okay I guess I end here first.

Berkeley Summer Session 08 Is Over

noreply@blogger.com (Steph) — Sat, 16 Aug 2008 05:33:00 +0000

It truly has been a long time since I last blogged. At last, my exams are over! I just sat for my last (it also happened to be the first) exam paper today. The subject I took was EE100 Electronic Techniques for Engineering.

I must say that a lot of things have happened. I've seen how people mugged through the whole night, how toilet doors do not stay close when they are supposed to, how "kiasu" some people here can get, how friendships grow, how packing more than 8 books into your bag is stupid, how people here behave...etc.

I will be back in Singapore in 2 more days. I've missed like 2 weeks of school and hopefully I still can catch up.

So far I am pretty satisfied with how things are going in life. All I can say is that the Lord is good.

I am now in Stern Hall writing this post. I just moved here. Apparently, they placed me in a suite. It has two beds but I am the only occupant here. Nice!

Interestingly, the people here don't really know where Singapore is. It's like when I tell them I am from Singapore, they are like "Oh is that somewhere in India?" Diao! There's this guy who said that Singapore is in Thailand...well at least it's closer to its actual place.

Tomorrow I will be shopping around for family and friends back in India...wait I mean Thailand...er no...Singapore.

Then there was once we were eating with this girl from America. We taught her how to speak some Hokkien words such as "Wah piang" and "Wah lau". It was a very interesting experience...lol.

Anyway, when I go back to Singapore, I hope that the workload there will be fine.

Lasting Love

noreply@blogger.com (Steph) — Sun, 20 Jul 2008 15:56:00 +0000

I've been in Berkeley for almost a month and there's one thing I saw which impressed me.

The couples here are very loving...and when I say "couples", I am referring to the senior ones (those in their 60s or 70s) and not the young ones who are still studying.

There was once I was walking and I saw this senior couple holding hands. They may walk in a pace that's 1/10th of that in Singapore but behind those hands held together tells a lifetime of love.

I could see that the man was having a difficult time walking. However the lady would just hold his hands and guide him as he walked. Talk about love.

Maybe when they were young they used to date, quarrel, laugh...etc. However, as age caught up with them, there's something that never changed...and that is the love between the both of them. Their body may fail and their youth disappear but I guess what makes them a "couple" still is the love they share.

I don't see such things in Singapore though. Most of the time, I see senior citizens picking up cans from the bin near where I stay (I stay in a HDB flat). Maybe they don't have the time to spend time together in their old age. Maybe they think that it's pointless to spend time together if they can't even afford their next meal. Maybe...it's some other reason.

With the divorce rates increasing in Singapore, it's definitely a worrying trend. I mean when a man and a woman decides to go into marriage, they have a vow to keep (it is the "marriage vow"). I guess statistics on divorce somehow indicates the attitude society has towards marriage. I don't know if I would ever get to see old couples holding hands while walking in Singapore but it's sad if there aren't any.

Maybe the divorce rates are up simply because people tend to separate over fights and quarrels. Maybe they realized that he/she isn't the man/woman they think he/she is. No one is perfect. Everyone has their own strengths and weaknesses. Personally I believe that once an individual enters into marriage, there isn't a "U-turn" anymore. What's in front is a one-way street all the way on the road of life with the other special someone. So I guess it's pretty important to understand the person first before talking about commitment.

I believe that the old couple I talked about earlier also had their own fair share of fights and quarrels, but what kept them as a couple still was their commitment...

Man: Can you please help hold my hand?
Woman: What?

It seems that the lady has a hard time hearing.

Man: I said CAN YOU PLEASE HOLD MY HAND.
Woman: Arh...okay.

The lady holds his hand.

Man: THANK YOU.
Woman: Are you shouting at me?
Man: YES I AM...
Woman: Well it's rude to shout you know...
Man: I KNOW. SORRY 'BOUT THAT.
Woman: Yeah it's okay. I love you dear.
Man: I LOVE YOU TOO!

This is what I guess love is.

1 Corinthians 13:4-8
4 Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up;
5 does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil;
6 does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth;
7 bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.
8 Love never fails.

Time: 9.05am, 20th July 08 (Sunday)

Lasting Love

noreply@blogger.com (Steph) — Sun, 20 Jul 2008 15:56:00 +0000

I've been in Berkeley for almost a month and there's one thing that I see which impressed me.

The couples here are very loving...and when I say "couples", I am referring to the senior ones (those in their 60s or 70s) not the young ones who are still studying.

There was once I was walking and I saw this senior couple holding hands. They may walk in a pace that's 1/10th of that in Singapore but behind those hands held together tells a lifetime of love.

I could see that the man was having a difficult time walking. However the lady would just hold his hands and guide him as he walked. Talk about love.

Maybe when they were young they used to date, quarrel, laugh...etc. However, as age caught up with them, there's something that never changed...and that is the love between the both of them. Their body may fail and their youth disappear but I guess what makes them a "couple" still is the love they share.

I don't see such things in Singapore though. Most of the time, I see senior citizens picking up cans from the bin near where I stay (I stay in a HDB flat). Maybe they don't have the time to spend time together in their old age. Maybe they think that it's pointless to spend time together if they can't even afford their next meal. Maybe...it's some other reason.

With the divorce rates increasing in Singapore, it's definitely a worrying trend. I mean when a man and a woman decides to go into marriage, they have a vow to keep (it is the "marriage vow"). I guess statistics on divorce somehow indicates the attitude society has towards marriage. I don't know if I would ever get to see old people holding hands while walking in Singapore but it's sad if there aren't any.

Maybe the divorce rates are up simply because people tend to separate over fights and quarrels. Maybe they realized that he/she isn't the man/woman they think he/she is. No one is perfect. Everyone has their own strengths and weaknesses. Personally I believe that once an individual enters into marriage, there isn't a "U-turn" anymore. What's in front is a one-way street all the way on the road of life with the other special someone. So I guess it's pretty important to understand the person first before talking about commitment.

(Shucks the person besides me just farted...what a spoiler...here I was trying to write something thoughtful and that person had to...haiz...never mind let me continue)

I believe that the old couple I talked about earlier also had their own fair share of fights and quarrels, but what kept them as a couple still was their commitment...

Man: Can you please help hold my hand?
Woman: What?

It seems that the lady has a hard time hearing.

Man: I said CAN YOU PLEASE HOLD MY HAND.
Woman: Arh...okay.

The lady holds his hand.

Man: THANK YOU.
Woman: Are you shouting at me?
Man: YES I AM...
Woman: Well it's rude to shout you know...
Man: I KNOW. SORRY 'BOUT THAT.
Woman: Yeah it's okay. I love you dear.
Man: I LOVE YOU TOO!

This is what I guess love is.

Interesting Happenings In UC Berkeley

noreply@blogger.com (Steph) — Sat, 19 Jul 2008 05:21:00 +0000

It's been a long time since I've last blogged. A lot of interesting things happened.

1. It's Chinatown in Berkeley
Session A was over and now Session D starts. Guess what...there are a lot of chinese people in where I am staying...whoa...there are like Koreans, Taiwanese and those from China. Then there's another thing...there are so many girls at my level. It's a contrast to a few weeks before where there were many more guys instead of girls. Then one more thing I noticed is that the people here study hard loh. There was once I was studying and doing my homework late into the night. Late = around 1am and guess what I saw? I saw so many people studying! Diao...it's like only the first day of school for them and they were all like in the study room studying. Power man! Never see before.

2. A co-ed bathroom
If you didn't know yet, the floor I am in has a common toilet (by the way, the people here call it "washroom" instead of "toilet"). Both guys and girls share the same toilet. Inside the toilet there are 3 cubicles and 4 shower cubicles.

I noticed a few things here. The amount of stuff girls bring into the toilet is definitely many more than guys. There was once there was this girl that brought in a basket of stuff. Then another time I saw this girl bringing in a plastic bag full of stuff. I didn't know you could shop in the toilet.

Oh yeah. Girls spend more time over the sink than guys. Once I saw my friend (a girl) in the toilet at the sink so I greeted her and we chat for awhile (like talk about how was class...etc) then after that I went into the shower cubicle and took a bath. After my bath, I went out of the cubicle and my friend was still there washing her face! Wow...nothing to say. It can only mean 2 things. One, I bath super fast that she has no time to wash her face. Or she took a long time to wash her face. Then I took a closer look at the area around the sink she was using. Lo and behold...there were bottles, tubes and containers of some sort. Now I understand why girls spend so much time in the toilet.

Then there was this case where I was bathing and suddenly a girl knocked on my door. I was shocked!

Girl: Excuse me.

From her voice I could tell that she was Chinese.

Me: *too stunned to say anything*

What is she doing?

Girl: Excuse me...
Me: Yeah?
Girl: I left my key in the shower room. Can you pass it to me?

Eh? Like that also got.

I looked around and true enough I saw a key. However, before handing the key to her, I must do security check.

Me: What's your room number?
Girl: It's ???.

I looked at the key...true enough the number matched. And so I did something I've never ever done before in my life...I passed the key over the door to the girl.

Girl: Thank you.
Me: You are welcome.

After that short encounter, I realized I had to blog about this and continued to bath. Weird man...weird...

3. Studies and exams
I am not sure if it's representative of the students here but somehow, the number of students in my class attending lecture is decreasing lecture after lecture. I don't know maybe they are too smart for lectures.

I just had my Midterm. It was on Monday afternoon. It had 4 questions and it was a 3-hour long paper. Guess how long I took to finish it? I took around 20 minutes. How come so fast? Simple...NTU students are smart.

Anyway, after finishing the paper, I didn't submit it immediately, instead I checked through it. Thankfully I noticed an error I had made and changed it. In the end, I submitted my paper 30 minutes before the end. I discussed my answer with my friend. Our answers agreed until the last part. I must admit that the last question was tough...no wonder our answers differed. She presented her logic as to why her answer was right. Somehow, I agreed with her...shucks...if she's right, then I am wrong. I just hoped for the best.

The result of the Midterm came out on Wednesday afternoon...pretty fast I must say.

Oh yeah, here in UC Berkeley, they have something similar to edventure...it's called bspace.

And so I went to bspace and checked my result. It's the same feeling you get when you go to StudentLink to check for your exam results...I clicked on the button...and...and I saw...

My marks.

I was stunned. I did pretty well. I am pleasantly surprised. I guess studying in Berkeley isn't that hard after all. All you need is hard work (e.g. sleeping late into the night studying and not partying). Or maybe the class I am taking is easy. For your information I am taking EE100: Electronic Techniques for Engineering

My friends all did pretty well too with 90+ marks. It's scary knowing how smart the people here are.

4. Workers on strike
This week started out with workers from the campus out on strike. Early in the morning, I could see the workers walking around chanting slogans with signboards asking for better pay and working conditions. It's pretty interesting as I've never seen a live one before.

I don't think you'll ever get to see such a thing in Singapore.

However, when the workers go on strike, things start to happen. The food over at our canteen started to go from "nice" to "so-so". No one cleaned the toilets in our halls and so it has a certain smell to it.

That's what you get when workers go on strike.

So that's about it for now...I need to go and sleep liao.

Time: 10.38pm, 18th July 08 (Friday)

The Ostracized Girl

noreply@blogger.com (Steph) — Sat, 05 Jul 2008 20:05:00 +0000

There was once I was eating breakfast over at Crossroads. I took my food and sat on one of the empty chairs. After eating for awhile, there was this group of girls that came in and took their breakfast. They sat in the row which was in front of me. The girls seem to be of secondary school age? Maybe they were here for some summer camp. Anyway, I just continued eating. Nothing interesting so far.

However, there was this particular girl (let's call her A) that caught my attention. She was just your ordinary girl. Simple looks, simple attitude and she eats bacon and eggs for breakfast. She looks Chinese. However, something seems to be happening. She seems to be...ostracized.

In the group of girls, there was this particular girl (let's call her B) who was better looking and much more vocal. It isn't surprising that she seemed to have friends all over her. Most of the girls from the group were talking and chatting with B while A sat by herself.

As time passed by, A was just sitting among the group of girls eating by herself while B on the other hand had lots of company and enjoying herself. I felt sorry for A. I understand how she felt as I used to be in her shoes when I was small. I wasn't a vocal boy nor was I like the super-handsome guy in school. So yeah...my clique was pretty small.

All this made me think that to be famous, you need to be pretty and vocal. It's true in a way which is sad for A.

On the other hand, you can argue that maybe there were girls in the group who wanted to be friends with A but because A was anti-social, hence she ended up alone. Well, there are two sides to the argument.

Anyway, I finished my breakfast and went for my morning lab.

Time: 1.14pm, 5th July 08 (Saturday)

Updates from UC Berkeley

noreply@blogger.com (Steph) — Sun, 29 Jun 2008 03:49:00 +0000

It's been a week now and I've seen a lot of things.

My first lecture (EE40) was interesting. The class setup was different from that in NTU. It was like circular in shape with the board at the front. Yes they use chalk and blackboard. The table was long and joint in a circular fashion. There are power sockets at the tables to allow students to charge and use their laptops while in lecture.

So I sat beside this guy. He was on my left and on his left was an empty seat. Halfway during the lecture, he lifted his legs and placed them on the chair beside him...lol. Very interesting. Maybe I should lift my legs and place them on my table. Then there were students who were just surfing the web without paying attention to the lecture. I guess NTU and UC Berkeley students share something in common here...lol.

Anyway, it was an interesting class. I got to know new friends. For example, I got to know this great guy who blogs! His blog is pretty interesting too! His name is Steph! (Did you see that coming?)

After the class, I went to ask the lecturer some questions. He was kind and helpful in answering my questions. After that I rushed to my next lecture. Yeah, my first and second lecture ends and start one after the other. Thankfully, the lecture location was like within 5 minutes walking distance. However one bad thing is that I can't stay back after the first lecture to ask questions as it would eat into my second lecture time.

My next lecture was EE100. When I entered the lecture room, the room was packed! Oh man...I've never seen a room so packed before. Apparently, I think EE100 is some core subject for the students there. It was so packed that some students had to sit on the floor. I had no choice but to sit on the floor also.

Thankfully, the lecturer was funny and engaging. I think it's important to have a good lecturer especially if the subject is difficult and technical. I am fortunate I got a good lecturer for both EE40 and EE100.

Halfway through, we had a 5 minutes break (the whole lecture was 2 hours). During the break, some students left the room with their bags. I assumed that they would not be coming back anymore. So I sat on one of the seats.

Now let's talk about the seats...lol. It was pretty small. There was a fixable table on the right (I wonder how those who are left-handed cope). I fixed my table and lo and behold...I saw some form of creative expressions on it. It was a wooden mini-table, so there were writings, declarations and comments. Okay...let's not get distracted by it. Pay attention to the lecture...

After lecture was over, I walked out of the building and walked back to my room.

I am glad that my 2 room mates are nice and understanding. I stay in a triple-sharing room...yeah...I know it's not popular in NTU...but here...lol...I am in one. Actually it's not bad if you asked me. I am used to it already now. Of course the idea may appear weird initially but I guess after awhile it's okay.

Let's talk about hall life now.

This is interesting as there was one thing that struck me. Guys and girls share the same toilet! Can you believe that? Normally in shopping centers (like Plaza Singapura) there would be the Gents (with a picture of a man) and the Ladies (with a picture of a woman). Here the toilet just shows a man standing beside a woman...lol.

Anyway, there was once I was brushing my teeth early in the morning and in came this girl and she entered one of the cubicle. I won't elaborate on what happened next but it was just...weird. I don't know whether I should continue brushing my teeth or just walk out.

Nevertheless, it's an experience. Thankfully, the shower cubicle has doors. I can't imagine if it doesn't have doors, like the army. Sheesh...

Then there was once I went to one of the shower cubicle to take a bath and saw something. I won't elaborate what it is but it does give an indication of what some of the students do here.

But it gets pretty noisy at night. Why? It's because there's a group of students outside my room talking and laughing. It's good that they are having fun and enjoying themselves but I wished that they wouldn't do it from midnight to 2am! I need to sleep and go to lecture the next day!! Haiz...I guess it's hall life huh?

We have a place to eat called Crossroads. This concept is pretty interesting which I think Singapore can try to learn from.

This is how it works. Every student has a card. They call it the "Cal 1 Card". I'll just call it CC. Each student has a certain amount of points in their CC. Every time you enter Crossroads, they'll swipe your card near the entrance before you can go to where the food is. A swipe would mean that points have been deducted from your card. You may think that it's bad but wait until you see this...

Oh yeah, you can't see as I didn't upload nay photos. Anyway, what happens after you swipe your card is...(are you ready?)...a buffet! All you can eat! And the food comes from different cuisines! Cool huh? They have american, mexican, italian, asian...etc. After you go in, you can eat all you want! They don't care even if you eat everything! So long as you can eat that is.

So what I ate was...

As you can see I eat a lot. It's all you can eat! Can you believe that? Of course I didn't eat all of those in the pictures in one go...lol. They are just a sample of what I ate here. Also the pictures just showed what I ate on the first round...lol. I didn't take the subsequent rounds...haha. Actually the subsequent rounds consisted of only fruits lah...nothing much really. I need the fruits as the food can be pretty heaty and I need something to cool down.

So after you eat, you throw away the food that you can't finish. Yes...there are some who can't finish the food they took. I try to only take enough so that I won't waste any and I am happy to say that so far my estimation on how much I could eat is pretty accurate...haha.

Anyway, you throw away the food which you can't finish and then place the tray on this interesting equipment.

What it does is it collects the dirty trays and stuff and it rotates and moves them into the back part. I guess there are people behind who would take down the dirty plates and wash them. Nevertheless, it was something cool that I've never seen before.

There are other more interesting stuff that happened but I guess I'll stop here for now :D

Day 5 At Berkeley

noreply@blogger.com (Steph) — Sat, 21 Jun 2008 05:23:00 +0000

Today's the last day of my tour. Tomorrow I will be moving from YMCA Berkeley to Unit 2 Residence Halls. After that, school's going to start and it will be studies. It doesn't mean that I won't be touring anymore...just less.

Today morning, I walked towards Unit 2 so that I will be familiar with the route tomorrow. It was about 2km far and I took about 23min. Hm...with my luggage tomorrow maybe I will take 45min? My luggage is pretty big and the road I noticed wasn't smooth al the way, there were cracks here and there. Furthermore, the route was uphill...lol...it's not going to be easy.

After that I walked from Unit 2 to Cory and GSPP where I will be having my lectures. It takes about 30min to reach there. When I reached Cory, I met my lecturer Bart. He's a nice and friendly person who introduced me to a few things. For example, there was this cool machine that could swing a pendulum until the pendulum reaches the top, after that, the pendulum stays there! Cool huh? The equilibrium is pretty unstable hence the motor still moves and jerks a bit.

After that I met a few students and got to know their names. They will be taking the same class as me (EE100).

After that, I went to have my lunch. I had it at Quiznos Sub. It's like Subway, but I think it's nicer...haha.

Here are some pictures.

Oh yeah, I haven't shown you my room. Haha...it's pretty messy.

I've been staying in this room for 5 days and will be moving soon to Unit 2. The people and staff here are nice. I won't mind staying here again if I come here.

By the way, the people here have a pretty good impression of Singapore. There was once I met this lady and her friend on the street with Andrew. Apparently, they knew Andrew. So they asked me where I came from. I told them Singapore and they were like "Wow...that's a nice/great/fabulous/place" reason being that it's clean, safe and the roads are good. Also there are people who noticed the other part of Singapore saying things like "You'll get caned for chewing gum there huh" and "If you spit over there you'll be fined". I guess Singapore's pretty famous for both sides...haha.

The lecturer whom I met at Cory also mentioned that NTU students are good. Lol...I was surprised when he said that as I thought UC Berkeley was like better than NTU in terms of ranking. When I asked him why he said that, he gave the reason that NTU students are hardworking, smart, and get good grades. Haha...interesting.

Oh yeah, just now when I went with Andrew to visit a family, the people there thought that I was Korean...lol. I was mistaken for a Japanese before a few years ago and now a Korean...haha. I guess I'll take that as a compliment. Or maybe it's because my face is sunburnt...I don't know...lol.

I guess that's about it for now.

Time: 10.22pm, 20th June 08 (Friday)

Day 4 At Berkeley

noreply@blogger.com (Steph) — Sat, 21 Jun 2008 01:00:00 +0000

Yesterday, Andrew and I went to the Golden Gate Bridge. We met at Downtown Berkeley BART. Went we reached there, I saw something interesting. The gates were all opened.

You know why? It's because it's Free The Air Day! Lol...what this means is that the society tries to reduce carbon emissions by making public transport free for the day! Except for the BART train which remains free until noon...lol. Interesting huh? I wonder if Singapore can have the same kind of situation.

We took the BART to Embarcadero Station. Then we took bus 10 followed by 30 and finally 28.

This is how it looks like in the bus. They have a card reader similar to Singapore, but it's still in the testing stage.

After a while, I could see the Golden Gate Bridge!

Wah...it's getting more interesting.

We alighted and I took photos, lots of them, but I will only upload a few here...haha.

The view from the bridge is pretty nice. For example, if you stand on th bridge and look on the water...

It's pretty peaceful. Then from the bridge you could see the nearby towns.

One thing though, when you walk on the bridge, it's pretty cold as the winds from the sea gets pretty cold. It was so cold that I had to wear my windbreaker, however, it didn't help much. Even though the wind was strong, I could still see some people not wearing any cold wear at all, they just wore some simple shirt and shorts...lol. Must be very strong to withstand all the cold.

After that we went to the Souvenir Shop where I bought some stuff. Then we took bus 28. After alighting, we waited for bus 30. The wait was pretty looooong. It was so long that the crowd at the station grew. The crowd grew into a size where we could have a tutorial class there on the spot! Anyway, after waiting for a long time, the bus came and it wasn't just one, but two. This reminded me of the 179 service at NTU...lol.

After that, Andrew and I went to Fisherman's Wharf and had our lunch. We ate at In-N-Out, it's a place for burgers. The queue was pretty long...so much so that it extends out of the shop! Lol...the only queue I've seen that extends out of a shop in Singapore is the TOTO/4D queue...lol.

Anyway, here's how the place looked like.

The ordering system is different from Singapore. Here, you tell the counter what you want and they'll give you a queue number. Then you go to another counter where food is being served. When your number comes, you take your food. Reminds me of the system in polyclinics in Singapore where you wait to see the doctor...haha. But I guess the doctors there won't recommend you to eat all these burgers.

And so this was my food.

It's nice. It's called a Double-Double as there are two patties. Andrew told me that you could actually order more than two patties for your burger. There was once his friend ordered 5! Whoa...that's too much for me.

After having our lunch we walked about and I took photos. It's interesting in that it's like a fish market, with seafood all over.

Then I had a taste of clam chowder. I wanted to try it when I was in Singapore. I bought one small portion and here's how it looked like.

The crackers on the left and chowder on the right. Andrew told me that normally you pour the crackers into the chowder and eat it. Interesting.

When I tasted the chowder...it was...nice! However, it was very salty too! A lot of food here is pretty salty...lol...not healthy I guess.

Anyway, the view there was terrific! Again I took a lot of photos but will upload some only.

After that we walked all the way from the Pier to Embarcadero...and I tell you...the walk back was hot! It was HOT!!! Lol...even the wind from the nearby sea didn't helped! Lol...so what was the result? I got sunburnt...badly burnt. My nose turned pink, then red. My hands also turned red...lol. I hoped that I won't scare my friends when I check-in to my Hall...lol.

Anyway, we went back via the BART. For dinner, I decided to have fruits only beacause it's hot and I am hot. So I went to Walgreens and bought this.

Yeah...that was my dinner...a simple dinner.

Time: 6.12pm, 20th June 08 (Friday)

Day 3 At Berkeley

noreply@blogger.com (Steph) — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 15:23:00 +0000

I met Andrew in the morning. I was introduced to him by William. We met outside the place where I stayed (YMCA Berkeley). Then William brought us to the Church in Berkeley, there I met some Full-timers. If I remember correctly, they are Mike, Sophia, Silvia, Esther, Timber, Tina, Amy and Sarah...sorry if I missed anyone...haha. After that, Andrew brought me to UC Berkeley. He graduated from there a long time ago. I guess I am fortunate to have him to bring me around. He's also Indonesian...I guess that's one common ground...lol.

Below is a picture of how it looks like in the library. When I stepped in, I could feel smartness oozing from the books and walls. Even though it looks old yet it gives me the feeling that our (NTU's) modern library still lose out to it.

I went to the Mining and Metallurgy (Hearst) building. It's equivalent to NTU's Materials Science and Engineering building.

Here they call it Mining and Metallurgy...lol...somehow I feel a bit old hearing that.

Then I saw this interesting building...

It's Tan Kah Kee Hall! A Singaporean's name in UC Berkeley! Cool huh?

Then there's Haas School of Business, a pretty famous business school.

As we walked we saw this.

Whoa...NBC news van leh...there must be some interesting things happening there.

True enough, there was a crowd outside.

So what were they doing? I walked towards them and I heard people shouting. It looks like a demonstration...something I've never seen before in my life.

It looks like everyone's looking upstairs...

Hm...what could it be?

It's a student up on a tree. Apparently, the students are against the university expanding their lands as it would destroy the trees. Hence some students decided to do something about it...apparently, one of them went up and stayed on the tree.

It was pretty nerve-wrecking as there was once, the tree started to shake. Then the people around started to shout "Don't cut the tress!" this is so as if the tree was cut, they tree would fall and so would the student on top...which isn't going to be pretty.

Whoa...it really looked like a scene from one of the movies. I have never seen such a demonstration before.

Then we walked back to Sather Gate.

After that, we had lunch at Gypsy's Trattoria Italiana.

For me I had the Chicken Marsala.

It's pretty nice and again, the portion was pretty large for me...lol.

After lunch, Andrew brought me around to view UC Berkeley.

Here's the Eucalyptus Growth...it's like a small park for the trees.

Then there's the Graduate School of Business. It's like Singapore's NIE.

Then Andrew and I went to Unit 2 Residence, the place where I will be staying when school starts...ooo...it's getting interesting...haha.

When I reached the place, I was pleasantly surprised. The place looked like some condo and there were a lot of international students walking about...cool!

After that we parted and I went back to my room. After a while, I went out to eat dinner. For dinner, I ate at Bongo Burger. I had the Cheeseburger Combo.

It was nice. The beef patty was different than that in Singapore. The fries was also nice. The drink tasted like lemonade, they call it Hi-C...don't know why it's pink in color though...haha.

After my dinner, I went back and rested.

I realized that people here like to eat fries, burgers, hot dogs and soda. Hm...I would say that with such a diet, it's important to eat a lot of fruits and vegetables...else it might get "heaty" and that's not good.

Also, in Berkeley, the afternoon is pretty hot. So much so that I got sunburn...lol. What a contrast! In SF, it was pretty cold even though the sun was up. I guess SF is near the sea, hence the wind cools the place, unlike in Berkeley where the same sun makes me feel hot. In SF, I had to wear my windbreaker even when the sun is up...haha.

Time: 8.23am, 19th June 08 (Thursday)

Day 2 At Berkeley

noreply@blogger.com (Steph) — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 00:07:00 +0000

Yesterday was Day 2. I shall try to remember what I did and blog about it today.

I went to Market Street (it's like Singapore's Orchard Road) and walked about. I went, I saw, and I took photos. So instead of talking, I'll just upload the pictures.

Then I went to Westfield San Francisco Centre. There I looked around and saw this.

It's an interactive directory. Cool huh? The first picture was taken when I used it. Guess what I was searching for? Yeah...the toilet.

The second picture was taken after I helped a senior citizen find his shop. He was going to Dockers. The story began when I was searching for the toilet. He stood beside me and a similar (not exactly as I can't remember the exact words) conversation started.

Man: Whoa...now they have these electronic touchy things huh?
Me: Yeah...it's pretty advanced.
Man: It's my first time here and I am looking for a pair of pants. The kind with the strap from the waist to the shoulders. Do you know where I can find them?

Lol...me also first time there leh...how?

Man: Hm...does Dockers sell those?
Me: I am not sure about that.
Man: But where is it?
Me: I can help you locate the stall with this e-directory.
Man: Thanks.

And that was the story of how me looking for a toilet was able to assist someone else in finding Dockers.

One thing that I noticed. The people there are pretty friendly...I think friendlier than where I came from...lol.

I had my lunch at Grain D'or. How you pronounced that? I also don't know.

Anyway, I went in and ordered my lunch. Here's how it looked like.

It's a pretty big portion and filling too. It's Turkey and Mozzarella Sandwich and it tastes nice.

Then I walked over to Port San Francisco at The Embarcadero. When I was there, there was this Farmer's Market going on. There were stalls selling farm produce. Interesting. Here are some photos.

Then I took photos of the Bay Bridge.

Then I went over to Singapore Consulate-General in San Francisco. I wanted to inform them that I was there and also asked if there would be any National Day Celebrations. I went over to 595 Market Street and went to their office.

There was a kind lady who assisted me with my questions. She told me that we need not go to the consulate in person to inform them, instead we could just do it online at their website. Oh okay...then I asked her if they had any National Day celebrations over here. She asked me when I was leaving and I told her about 15th August. Then she went to check. When she came back she told me that they would be having their celebrations on the 15th of August (if I remember correctly). Aw...how sad. I guess I would have to watch YouTube or something. I thanked her for her help and went to the ground floor.

There were different stalls at the ground floor. There was an ice cream stall, a massage corner (where people massage you) and a wide spread of pastries. Hm...it looks like they have some event over here. I went to the ice cream stall and this conversation followed.

Me: How much is an ice cream?
Assistant: It's free.

Cool! Free ice cream. It pays to visit the Consulate after all...lol.

This is the picture of the ice cream stall.

And here's my free ice cream. It's strawberry with a chocolate chip cookie (yeah...the cookie is free too).

After that I walked over to Chinatown. Here are some pictures.

There's this interesting machine outside one of the shop. What you do is you insert a coin and the machine will squash it for you. The squashed coin will be your souvenir...lol. I didn't know such thing also got.

Next I went over to Portsmouth Square. There were a lot of senior citizens there. Some were chatting, some just idling about, some playing chess (the minority) while some were playing cards (the majority). Hm...what does this tell you? People here prefer cards than chinese chess...lol.

As I walked I saw a chinese chess match going on and so I decided to stop by, stand beside them and watched.

It was an interesting match. Occasionally, one of them would laugh and look at me...because he had cornered the opponent into sacrificing one of his pieces. In the end, it looks like the man on the left was winning. However, I didn't get to see the checkmate move as they stopped halfway and started a new game. Interesting.

After that I went over to the Chinese Culture Center. I was at the entrance looking at the various items they had there. When I proceed on to enter, the man at the counter looked at me and this conversation followed.

Man: I'm sorry, but we are closed.
Me: Huh?
Man: We close at 4pm.

I looked at my watch and it was 3.59pm. Diao!

Me: Oh man...shucks.
Man: Where are you from?
Me: Singapore...haiz...sad.
Man: Yeah I know...do come again tomorrow.
Me: Thanks.

I don't think I can as I have other things to do...lol. I guessed I spent too much time observing the chinese chess match. However, thinking about it, by looking at how the senior citizens play and behave at Portsmouth Square, I could already learn chinese culture. I need not go to the Chinese Cultural Center to learn as there, I have a generation of chinese people socializing and sharing their culture through their interactions. I know...I am just comforting myself.

Next I went to Transamerica Pyramid. Here are some pictures of it.

After that I took the BART train back to where I lived. I was at the Embarcadero Station and there I observed something interesting.

The above shows a sign on the floor to guide those outside the train where to stand on, allowing those in the train to exit first. This is interesting as the people there observed (as in followed) this. However, in Singapore, I see people rushing into the train even when people inside have not alighted. Shucks...I feel embarrassed. When the train arrived, those outside waited for people inside to move out. Then suddenly, the man behind me rushed in front of me to enter the train...I guess here we do have some similarities after all...haha.

Then in the train, a lady gave up her seat to another lady who was holding her young child. That's nice and touching.

I alighted at Downtown Berkeley Station and went to UC Berkeley to walk around. While walking I saw this.

Can you spot 4 squirrels? They are cute.

Then I went over to La Cascada Taqueria to have my dinner. There I had a Beef Taco.

The meal was pretty okay. After that I walked back home and rested.

Time: 6.26pm, 18th June 08 (Wednesday)

Day 1 At Berkeley

noreply@blogger.com (Steph) — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 16:31:00 +0000

Cool!

The place and weather here is pretty cool man!

I arrived at San Francisco International Airport and looked around for the Information Counter. After asking some questions, I took the BART Train to Berkeley. It works similarly to the MRT in Singapore. You insert notes, choose the station then the ticket will come out. While I walked, the air around was pretty cold. So I wore a windbreaker.

I bought a ticket and boarded the BART. Wah...first time leh...very interesting. Then the BART started to move...whoa...it can move...

The train reached the next station and the door opened. The air outside was so cold....even the air inside the train wasn't that cold. In Singapore, the air outside is not as cold than the air inside the train...here it's the opposite. I took some photos of the scenery from the station.

Then the train reached one station and in came a man with a cowboy hat and a long ponytail (it reached his waist). He came in and asked a question to nobody in particular.

Man: Does anyone here knows how to get to Berkeley?

He carried with him a guitar, a sports bag and a backpack. I guess he must be like me...a student. Then one of the passenger answered the man's question with clear directions. That made me think. In Singapore we don't have such a thing. We don't have a passenger who walks in and asks across the train hoping someone would answer. Now that was something new. However, it didn't end there.

While the train was moving, the man (with the cowboy hat...let's call him Cowboy). Went and grabbed hold of the railings and started to do pull-ups! He did quite a few. Easily above 5. Then he looked out of the window and was attracted by the scenery, so he quickly grabbed his MacBook and started to webcam the scenery with the screen facing the window. So you can imagine one guy holding a laptop and moving about in the train. In Singapore, you won't find anyone doing that...at least I've never seen anyone do that before. But I guess here, people do stuff without really caring what other people think of them. It's interesting. After webcaming the scenery, he continued with the pull-ups...I have nothing to say.

I made a transfer at Oakland City Center to the Richmond-bound train. Cowboy did the same. I was thinking whether I should talk to him? I wasn't sure as I've never encountered someone like him before. So I played safe and kept quiet.

I took the transfer train and reached Downtown Berkeley station. I alighted and I saw a lot of students...some of them were wearing the Berkeley shirt. I guess the students here must be proud of their school...after all, they have no reason not to be proud of their school.

I stepped out of the station and felt cold...and I was wearing my windbreaker already. I guess the cold wind managed to break through my windbreaker. Anyway, my advice is that if you can't stand cold, then wear more clothings...logic. For me, it was cold, but still bearable.

I walked towards YMCA Hotel and Residence and checked-in to my room. It's nice and cosy. I unpacked my stuff and got ready to explore...

As I walked the streets of Berkeley, I could somehow feel "smartness" from the people around me. It's Berkeley town after all. Also, I saw a diverse group of people...people from different races and ethnicity. Cool! Then there was this group of girls walking. They looked Asian...like me. As they walked they talked in their ang-moh accent. Whoa...interesting. Never hear before. Imagine what would happen if we started talking...

Girl A: Hi where are you from?
Me: Me arh? I from Singapore.
Girl B: You talk in a funny way.
Girl A: Yeah...it's so like...I don't know...
Me: Haiya...nevermind lah.

First I walked around University Avenue. I went to Citibank to test if I could draw money from the ATM there...it worked...good. Then I went to McDonald to eat. The menu there was different. I ordered the cheapest meal and went to find a place to sit. The meal tasted different. How different? Well, the fries are very salty compared to Singapore, the iced tea was sweet...way too sweet for my liking and the size of the iced tea cup was bigger than what I anticipated. Hm...anyway, I ate all that and continued to explore. This was how my meal looked like.

After the meal, I walked around and I saw this AT&T shop and went inside. The one who attended to me was a Mongolian girl. Interesting huh? After talking for awhile, I realized she's a student in Berkeley too! Maybe it's summer that's why she's working. Anyway, she heard of NTU before...not bad...someone knows NTU. I asked her about the various plans she had for foreign students like. After talking, I told her I would come again with my phone so that she could install the SIM card into my phone. She's a friendly person.

I went to Walgreens next. It was like NTUC in Singapore. Pretty neat. There I bought 2 gallons of water, 4 oranges and a loaf of bread. Then I went back to my room to unload the stuff I bought.

I went back to the AT&T shop and paid for the SIM card. I tried testing my phone by calling the shop's phone number and it worked! Cool! I now have a number.

Next I walked towards Berkeley and walked through certain parts of the school. The school is nice. The weather is cool and there are empty fields for students to sit and discuss about stuff. I passed by International House and overhead (it wasn't on purpose okay) this female student talking on the phone.

Lady: Yeah...I got an A for Abstract Algebra.
...
Lady: It's an A.
...

From the tone of her voice, it seems that the other party wasn't happy. She didn't say it like "Yay I got an A!" but it was more like "It's an A, aren't you happy that I got an A?" Then I remembered there was this student who said something like "It's hard to get above 3.00". Hm...stress stress, I guess being in Berkeley has it's stress, the academic kind.

Then I reached this place where the students stayed. The area had terraces around for students to stay. Each terrace had its own name. The names were kinda Greek-ish in that they used the Greek alphabets like Phi-Sigma-Tau or something like that. Imagine telling your family and friends back in Singapore that you stayed in Kappa-Delta-Pi. While walking halfway I saw this.

It's a pair of shoes tied to the electricity lines. Hm...I guess it must be some experiment.

Then I continued walking and walking. After a while I got hungry and ate at "Hawaiian BBQ". I ordered the fish set. I asked for "regular" size as there were only "mini" or "regular". "Mini" sounded small so I ordered "regular". When it was delivered to me, this was how it looked like.

I was surprised as I could only eat one-third of it! Whoa...cannot lah...must try to finish all, if not wasted. So I forced myself to eat some more...in the end, I ate until like 2/3 of it. Cannot take it liao...too full. So I daboa-ed the remaining portion and walked back.

When I reached back home, I slept...it was a tiring day. Furthermore, I had to adjust from the jet lag. Imagine sitting for more than 5 hours in the plane is no joke. Especially when you travel alone and have no one to talk to.

Time: 9.32am, 17th June 08 (Tuesday)

Because My Daughter Needed A Hug

noreply@blogger.com (Steph) — Sat, 14 Jun 2008 14:45:00 +0000

It was a Monday and Calvin was busy working in his office. He was busy preparing the slides for his company's presentation. The job was given to his colleague Adam but since Adam had to take leave for "personal matters", Calvin had no choice but to juggle between his job and Adam's. Adam left abruptly, leaving Calvin 2 days to sift through all the data and come up with pie charts and graphs for the presentation. It wasn't easy, but that's life.

The first day after Adam left, Calvin was left with a whole new set of data and figures to study and understand. It took him the whole day.

The second day came. This means that Calvin was left with only one day left to prepare everything. Although he understood the gist of the figures and data, the graphs and trends that management wanted was still not done.

During lunch time, Calvin's boss, Bart, talked to him.

Bart: I know it's difficult on you.
Calvin: Yeah it definitely is...I mean juggling with my department's work and Adam's work...sheesh...it ain't easy.
Bart: I know...but your promotion depends on this. Management is looking at you now on how you handle this situation.
Calvin: Really?
Bart: Yes...you are not supposed to know this but...
Calvin: I know. Thanks.

After work that day, Calvin went back home. His wife Sue was home looking after their 5 year old daughter, Elle, who was sick.

Sue: How's your day?
Calvin: Stressed...Adam left suddenly and I have to finish his work.
Sue: That's hard. Here...have some soup that I prepared for you.
Calvin: Thanks. How's Elle?
Sue: She's now in her room asleep. The fever is still there. Thankfully it went down from last night.
Calvin: Thanks for taking care of the family.
Sue: It's my job as your wife and Elle's mum.
Calvin: No wonder I married you.
Sue: Haha...

Calvin took a bath and went back to his laptop. He worked till late in the night. After making some calculation, he realized that he had to burn the midnight oil all the way to next morning.

While he was preparing the slides, he heard a voice.

??: I am tired...

Calvin turned around and saw Elle awake from her sleep.

Elle: ...but I can't sleep.
Calvin: Dad's tired too but I have some work to do.
Elle: But it's past work time already.

To Elle, dad's work last from 9am to 5pm, but in the real world, work can be 24-7.

Calvin: Why don't you try to sleep?
Elle: I can't sleep.
Calvin: ...

Calvin was definitely stressed. He had to take care of Elle and his slides.

Elle: Dad, can you hug me? I also want to hear your stories.

Now, he had to make a decision. He knew that telling stories meant less time for the slides.

Calvin: ...
Elle: Why don't you read to me some stories?
Calvin: Haha...okay. Give me a few minutes.

Calvin went to his laptop and finished some stuff. He looked at the wall clock and it was 2.18am. He shut down his laptop and went over to the living room where Elle was waiting smiling with a storybook. He admired her tolerance. Despite the fever, she could still smile. Maybe that's why she asked for a hug...a hug...a form of encouragement to help her go through her fever.

Calvin went over to where Elle was and gave her a hug. He kissed her forehead.

Calvin: Come...why don't you sit here while daddy read this book to you.
Elle: Okay.

Elle sat on his thigh and Calvin held the book in front of them. Calvin began to read the book.

After reading for awhile, Calvin noticed that Elle was sleepy.

Elle: Daddy...I am tired...can you accompany me while I sleep?

Calvin thought about his slides and his daughter...

Calvin: ...

After thinking for awhile, Calvin carried Elle on his shoulders and walked towards her room. He placed Elle on her bed and sat beside her on a chair.

Elle: Daddy... please hold my hand...

Calvin held her hand and touched her forehead. The fever was still there.

Calvin: Elle...are you okay?
Elle: Yes I am...cos daddy is holding my hand.

Calvin was touched. Sometimes children see things that adults don't see.

Elle: Oh yeah...daddy...do sleep early...I don't want you to fall sick too...if not I would have to read stories to you and hold your hand while you sleep.
Calvin: ...

As time passed by, Elle fell asleep. Calvin saw his little angel there lying on the bed. He touched her forehead. It was still hot, but somehow, Elle was smiling. Calvin looked at the clock and saw that it was 4.51am. Before he knew it...he fell asleep on the chair...

The next morning, he woke up and saw that he was late for work. He quickly rushed to work, hoping that everyone would forget about the presentation slides.

When he reached his office, Bart was there.

Bart: So how's your slide?
Calvin: It's...
Bart: ...
Calvin: It's still unfinished.
Bart: You do know that the deadline is today right?
Calvin: Yes.
Bart: And also, you do know that your promotion depends on it right?
Calvin: Yes.
Bart: Well then...I don't know what else to say...I am disappointed.
Calvin: ...

The day started bad. Management wanted to see Calvin for an explanation. So Calvin went to the Management's office.

Management: Would you care to explain why the slides are not finished?
Calvin: ...
Management: Tell me when is the deadline.
Calvin: It's today.
Management: You do know that the presentation with our foreign business partners is key to our expansion don't you?
Calvin: Yes I do.
Management: So tell me why isn't it done yet?
Calvin: Because...
Management: Because?
Calvin: Because my daughter needed a hug.
Management: ...

After a few seconds of silence...

Management: You can go back to your office now. I have nothing to ask from you.

Calvin went back to his office, unsure about whether his job will still be there. The day was tough for Calvin.

After work was over, Calvin went back home.

Elle: Daddy! Elle's fine now.
Sue: It looks like Elle's fine now.
Calvin: That's good.
Sue: What's wrong? Did something happen at work?

And so, Calvin shared what happened in the office with Sue over dinner while the family ate together.

After dinner, Calvin went to take a bath. After that, he sat in the living room unsure of whether he will still be able to keep his job. Then suddenly he felt someone hugging him. He turned around and saw Elle hugging him. Sue was standing there smiling at him.

Sue: Elle told me what happened...how you read her stories and accompanied her.
Elle: Don't be sad...I am here to hug you now. Let's read a story together.

Calvin smiled.

Sue: Well...it looks like fun. I'll join in too.
Elle: Let's read together for Daddy to hear!
Sue: Haha...
Calvin: Thanks...I don't know what to say.
Sue: No wonder I married you. You chose your family over work.
Elle: That's not what the storybook says! Let's try reading again.
Calvin and Sue: Haha...

And that was the story of how a man prioritized his family over work. This story is for all father's out there. Happy Father's Day.

GSS To UC Berkeley (Cal)

noreply@blogger.com (Steph) — Fri, 13 Jun 2008 14:44:00 +0000

It's Friday today. Soon it will be Monday. I will be leaving Singapore on Monday morning...early morning...at 6am. Yeah...the plane leaves at 6am.

This trip to University of California, Berkeley is an exciting one that I am looking forward to. It started off when I attended one of the talks by IRO NTU on exchange programs. There I heard that there was an exchange program to UC Berkeley (Cal). Something inside me got excited and I proposed this idea to my parents. Initially it wasn't easy to decide whether to go or not due to a few reasons. However, after praying for guidance and thinking through the various factors, my family agreed.

Although there were obstacles along the way (e.g. problems in the application), I thank the Lord that everything went smoothly eventually. It's interesting how sometimes as a Christian, we need to have faith in Him to guide us through certain situations in life.

I would also like to thank the Lord for His blessings shown to me so far. Truly, the Lord is good (Psalm 100:5). Amen.

In a few days time I will be leaving Singapore. I don't know how often I will update this blog over there, but I will try.

I would like to express my thanks and gratitude to:
1. The Lord for making this trip possible.
2. My family who provided me with encouragement and sound advice.
3. My friends who gave me their well-wishes.

Thank you all for your support :D

Personal Financing

noreply@blogger.com (Steph) — Thu, 12 Jun 2008 15:40:00 +0000

I attempted to log all my expenditures for today. This means that when I spend money, I will take note of it so that I can check if my expenditure is low or high.

Today I decided to go to Suntec for the PC Show 2008. I am looking for a few things in particular. They are a webcam, a digital camera and a MP3 player (yes, I have been procrastinating on buying one since don't-know-when). I took a bus from my home to Jurong East MRT.

Item 1: Bus fare from home to Jurong East MRT = $0.67

Then I alighted and walked towards the MRT station. The MRT arrived and I walked in. After a few stops, there was this lady standing in front of me. She was talking over her phone. It was loud so her conversation could be heard. She used certain words like "chamber", "percussionist", "modules", "teacher", "SSO"...etc. In case you don't know, SSO is the abbreviation for Singapore Symphonic Orchestra. From there, I figured that she was a musician. It seems that she was looking for a percussionist...hm...interesting...I am a percussionist. However, she mentioned over the phone a few minutes later that she didn't want any Year One percussionist, reason being that she can't get along with them. Hm...okay...

Anyway the train reached City Hall and I tapped my EZ-Link card.

Item 2: Train fare from Jurong East MRT to City Hall MRT = $1.14

Then I went to DBS Bank over at Raffles City to deposit some cash. Next I went to the food court and ordered my lunch. It was a plate of chicken rice.

Item 3: Plate of chicken rice = $3.80

I got thirsty and bought a bottle of water.

Item 4: Guardian Distilled H2O = $0.55

After that I made my way to the PC Show...

When I arrived, it was not really crowded, there was still space to move about. I looked around a few booths and a few things caught my eye. There was this Final Year EEE student from NTU who was over at one of the booths. We talked for awhile and I realised that I was keeping him from his work so I moved on. I saw this interesting device. It was a portable solar battery. It charges itself from the sun and you can use it to charge your handphone or MP3 player or PSP or whatever. Interesting.

In the end, I bought a webcam. It's 5 megapixels with an in-built mic.

Item 5: PROLiNK PCC5020 Web Camera = $25

Is it cheap? I think it is compared to the other cameras around.

After walking for awhile looking at the cool gadgets and stuff, I decided to stop and went to grab a bite.

Item 6: Aunt Anne's Zesty Roselle Pretzel = $2.70

This was nice. It was sweet with a tinge of sourness. But I think the price was too expensive. It's enough to buy one loaf of Gardenia.

After eating the pretzel, I got thirsty. I realised that my water bottle was empty. And so, I went over to Watson.

Item 7: Watson Distilled Water = $1.25

I get the feeling that it's expensive. Anyway, I got tired and went back home.

Item 8: Bus 502 from Suntec to home = $2.20

I thought that it was interesting to write down the things you spent for the day and look at how you spend your money. From here, I can see that taking a bus home is much more expensive and takes a longer time than if I were to take the MRT and bus back home. $2.20 is much more than $0.67 plus $1.14 (2.20 > 0.67+1.14). The bus ride back home was stuffy and crowded. Haiz...if I knew, I would have taken the MRT back. Of course this is true if the going and coming back trip costs the same.

So for today, I spent a total of...$37.31. Hm...that's a lot for one day. If I didn't buy the webcam, it would be $12.31. For transport, I spent $4.01. Which is one-third of my expenditure less the webcam. Whoa...transport is already one-third. Maybe I should travel to somewhere nearer.

Anyway, here's an interesting find that I am sure you have seen before.

Now tell me, a bus carrying 20 passengers emit 55x20=1100g of carbon dioxide per kilometre while the average car carrying one person emits 180g of carbon dioxide per kilometre. If that's the case, which is more environmentally friendly? The bus or the car? Think about it.

Bak Kut Teh Science And Engineering

noreply@blogger.com (Steph) — Tue, 10 Jun 2008 12:30:00 +0000

The other day I was buying bak kut teh ("pork bone tea" according to Wikipedia) for dinner over at Jurong West. The queue was long as I could see a lot of people waiting around the stall looking at the bak kut teh seller. Well I presumed they were waiting for their food instead of looking at him for fun.

Like the people there, I ordered my food and sat. As I waited, I looked around the stall. The stall only had 3 people. Two senior citizens (a lady and a guy) and a young man. The young man was the one cooking while the two senior staff were delivering the food. Hm...maybe it's because it would be dangerous for senior people to handle the hot bak kut teh soup. Maybe that's why the young man was the one doing the cooking. Also, from the look of his muscular hands, it seems that cooking bak kut teh requires a lot of strength.

So where's the science part? You know those rice tanks that stores rice (duh!)? Well, they managed to insulate it with styrofoam. Okay, it may look ordinary, but the thing is that not many hawker stalls around use styrofoam packaging for their rice tanks. Cool huh? That was thermodynamics 101 at work.

Then while I waited, I wondered how they managed to serve to so many people without missing an order or delivering food to the wrong person. Hm...as I observed them, the answer came.

You see, after the young man prepared a bak kut teh set, he would instruct one of the senior staff with such an instruction:

Young Man: This one arh, is for the auntie wearing specs and a checkered shirt sitting at the north-west of here. She's beside a young girl who is also wearing specs.

Cool man! This guy could join some detective squad. With such a description, it's pretty hard to miss the right customer. Further more, there was once I heard one of the senior staff saying this:

Senior staff: I know lah...you think I can't remember is it?

Whoa...even the senior staff could remember. I guess they do not need any Kumon training to do this. Admirable.

After waiting for awhile, my order came. Now here's the engineering part. I ordered two bak kut teh soup and two rice. I looked at the senior man and see how he was going to wrap my order. Is it going to be wrapped in two plastic bags? One plastic bag? Let's see.

He placed the soup container at the center inside the plastic bag. The two rice packets he placed at the sides of the central soup container. The second soup container he placed on top of the first soup container.

Wow...this impressed me. You see, that structure is pretty sound. The two rice packets at the sides act as shock absorbers while the sturdy plastic containers are stacked on top of each other. When he passed the plastic bag to me, I tried to shake the bag. You know how sometimes when you da-bao food and when you shake the plastic bag, the food / soup shakes and spills? Well, not for this one. There's civil engineering at work.

Here's the interesting part. As I walked towards the bus stop, I saw my bus coming so I ran after it. Also, it was a good opportunity for me to test the integrity of the senior uncle's packaging structure. As I ran, I could feel the food (soup and rice) moving about. However, the whole thing moved as a whole instead of individual packets wobbling. It must be those rice packets that act as shock absorbers!

I caught up with the bus and inspected my da-baoed food. There wasn't any spill. Cool! And that was how Science (Thermodynamics) and Engineering (Civil Engineering) was found in a humble bak kut teh stall in Jurong West.

Far From You

noreply@blogger.com (Steph) — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 14:57:00 +0000

I was sitting on one of the seats in the Viewing Gallery in Changi Airport reading my book. Then suddenly someone tapped my back...

???: Fancy meeting you here.

Huh? Who was it? I turned around and saw her! Oh my...

???: So what are you doing here?
Me: Well, I should be asking you that.
???: Well, you'll be leaving Singapore soon...and so...
Me: Uh huh...
???: I thought maybe I should come after all.
Me: But yesterday you said you were busy right?
???: I changed my mind *smile*
Me: Oh okay...so what do you want to do now since you are here?
???: Well, I should be asking you that.
Me: I guess I'll just look around since it's been a long time since I last set foot here.
???: Well, I'll just follow then.

She stood up from her seat, sat beside me and read a book that she brought along.

I didn't expect to meet En at Changi Airport. I was at the Viewing Gallery (the place where you see planes take off) when she called out to me. You see, the day before she asked me whether I had any plans today and I told her I would be going to the airport to look around. When I told her that, she said that she couldn't follow even though she wanted to as she had some previous appointment. Well, I guess things change and now she's here.

Me: By the way, what appointment was it that you had?
En: Haha...busybody...

Darn...she just called me a busybody. What a word to describe me.

Me: Er...I...it's okay if you don't want to say though.
En: Haha...you look cute.

I was a busybody one moment and now I am cute. I guess the rate of change of definition (d(definition)/dt) changes very fast.

En: It's not really an appointment...it's like...how do you say...personal time. Yeah...personal time to do something.
Me: Personal time?
En: Yeah...I had to do something last night and I managed to finish it and so here I am. If I couldn't then I won't be here.
Me: What was it that you need to do?
En: You really want to know?

Hm...En is getting good at making people curious.

Me: Let's see...no.
En: Aww...that's not fun.
Me: Well, that look on your face kinda gave it away. It seems to say "I am not answering anything".
En: Smart...as always.
Me: I think "always" is a bit of an overstatement.
En: Haha...anyway, have you eaten?
Me: Not really. If you want to eat we can go over Ya Kun and have a bite.
En: Okay...the food is nice and the price is reasonable too.
Me: By reasonable you mean it's cheap right?
En: Hey...things are expensive nowadays. So it's good to save if you can.
Me: Haha...okay...you are right.

And so I packed my stuff and carried my bag. En placed her book back into her bag and stood up. We both walked towards Ya Kun.

En: How long will you be gone?
Me: I thought you know the answer already?
En: I just wished that it won't be so long.
Me: Well it's 2 months.
En: Yeah...that's like soo long.
Me: Well, if you want you can email me. MSN may be a problem as my night time is your day time and vice versa.
En: Yeah...I guess that's one way. Oh yeah...do be careful there. I heard that it can be dangerous.
Me: Oh wait! I detected something!
En: What?
Me: I sensed...I sensed...someone showing concern...is it true?
En: Why you...

Then I ran away from her side lest any physical blow should land on me. She chased me and we attracted quite a bit of attraction. Who says NTU undergrads are all study and no play?

Me: Okay...okay...it's just that I am bad at such mushy things.
En: No...I really mean it.

Then I looked at her...those eyes, yes they do speak of concern. It's touching. I know she's worried but what can I do?

Me: Relax...I am not the first to go there. There are others who went there and came back home safely.
En: Yeah...I guess I am just a bit too...
Me: There! That's Mr Ya Kun waiting for us.

I know it's rude to cut her in the middle of her speech but somehow that worried face has to stop being so...worried. It will only add pimples and wrinkles to the face.

We ordered our meal and sat down.

Me: What time do you need to be back?
En: I guess before 9.00pm would be fine.
Me: Okay...anyway I will be leaving for home at about 4pm.

Our meal arrived and we tucked in.

En: By the way, do you remember the keychain I gave you?

Wow...that was like so long ago...I guess girls do remember the small things they do.

Me: Yeah...what about it?
En: Well, it attracted a lot of attention in your blog right?
Me: Haha...well that story was read by some of my friends...what about it?
En: Nah...that key chain resulted in a story which I like a lot...it's a nice read.
Me: Is it because you are the main character? *grin*
En: Yes...but more importantly...it's...aiya...it's nice lah.
Me: Haha...thanks.

After eating, we talked as we walked around the airport. I had actually brought a book that I wanted to read but since En made the effort to come here, it would not be nice if I ignored her and read my book. I guess she just wanted to spend some time before I go. Haiz...that sad face is really getting into me.

Me: Oh yeah, I wanted to ask you one thing.
En: What?
Me: Why aren't you wearing your specs?
En: Haha...it took you awhile to notice it.

Actually I noticed it at the start but because I have nothing to say that's why I used this as a conversation-starter.

Me: Erm...yeah.
En: I told you before didn't I?

Then En stopped walking and looked at me.

En: It's only for you...that's why.

Oh man...such mushy-ness in public! My feet melted like KFC's Cheesy BBQ Meltz...

En: You said that I looked nice without my specs and I remembered it. *smile*
Me: En, I think my legs are melting.
En: Haha...you are so funny.
Me: Well, it's only for you...that's why...

Whoa...her face turned red. This is bad. There's a guy who has trouble standing properly with a girl who's face is red. Doesn't look nice in public.

En turned away and continued walking. I smiled and walked towards her.

Me: But seriously, why don't you wear contacts in school?
En: Well, I go to school to study...so I wear my specs in school.
Me: Oh I see...
En: Specs...study...whereas contacts...
Me: Yes...contacts why?
En: Is when...I am with...someone. So it's different.
Me: Someone? Who?

Sometimes it's interesting to act blur and see what happens.

En: Yeah...someone whom I...

Okay better stop lest my legs melt any further.

Me: By the way, does your mum know that you are here with me?
En: Why would you want to know?
Me: Your mum would be worried if her daughter is out with some guy.
En: Haha...don't worry. I told her and she's fine with it because she met you already.
Me: Oh yeah...that phone conversation the other time sure was weird.
En: I guess my mum trusts you that's why she's ok when I said I was going to meet you.
Me: It's an honor to be trusted by someone don't you think?
En: Yeah...

We saw some chairs and decided to take a rest from the walking. En sat first and I sat beside her. We talked for awhile. While talking you can see that she's happy and sad. Happy as I was there (or at least that's what I think) and yet sad as I was leaving.

After talking for sometime, it was time to leave so we walked towards the MRT station.

En: Er...when you are there, do keep your eyes on the books okay?
Me: Er...why?
En: Well...you know how the girls there are different.
Me: Haha...don't worry...you know that I am a boring person who doesn't joke much to new people.
En: Well...just in case.
Me: Haha...okay...okay...

Then she smiled. That's nice. It's nice when she smiles every now and then. We were approaching the MRT station when En stopped.

En: Wait...I have something for you. I can't give it to you in the MRT.

Oh what's this? En has something for me. And it cannot be given in the MRT...interesting. Could it be a repeat of what happened the first time she gave me a present? She opened her bag and took out a small box.

Me: Oh...what's this?
En: It's a gift...for you.

Aw...that's very sweet of her.

En: Remember my personal time that I told you about? Well I had to prepare this last night before meeting you. I was afraid that I won't be able to finish it that's why I burnt the midnight oil to prepare this.
Me: ...
En: I know you'll be away for a long time and so I prepared this for you. Keep your eyes to your books and this...
Me: ...thanks.

I took the gift from her hands.

En: ...
Me: Er...are you waiting for me to open it in front of you?
En: Yes..
Me: Are you sure it's okay?
En: I...I guess that's okay.

Hm...she seemed hesitant. There must be something inside. I went on and slowly peeld out the scotch tape. The wrapping paper was light pink with those "Forever Frinds" bears on it. The wrapping paper was opened. I looked at En...she held her right elbow with her left hand and bit her lip. Hm...something interesting must be inside. I thought of asking whether it was a bomb like the other time...but I guess I shouldn't be too mean.

En: Promise that you won't laugh.

Inside the wrapping paper was a white box. I reached out to open it.

En: Wait...let's go over there.

En pointed to a small and quiet spot. I guess she wanted a quiet place for this special moment, far from the crowds. We walked over to the spot and sat on the cold marble floor. Then I went on to open the box. En looked on earnestly.

En: Wait...er...I don't think I can do this...
Me: Huh? Do what?
En: Never mind...I am going to the toilet for awhile. While I am there you can open the box.
Me: Huh? I am confused.

With that, En ran to the washroom. Hm...should I open the box? What should I do? After thinking for awhile, I decided that I should...

A few minutes later, En came out. I saw her walking towards me and I stood up from the seat I was sitting on.

En: So have you opened the box?
Me: Well...no.
En: *shocked* ...oh no...
Me: Well I thought that since you prepared so hard and wanted me to open this box in front of you, I thought that I should wait for you and...
En: But...but...
Me: Why? What's wrong.
En: Erm...okay...but please don't laugh.

I smiled at her trying to assure her that I won't laugh. She returned the smile. I opened the box and inside was a small frame. The frame contained a letter. It was a handwritten letter on some art paper with the same "Forever Friends" bear pictures. The letter says:

"I know you'll be away but..."

I stopped reading for awhile and looked at En. She sat in front of me with her face red.

En: What...

I continued reading the letter...

"do remember my face."

I stopped and looked at the author of this beautiful letter. She turned her face away.

"I'll remember yours so do remember mine. I don't know if I am strong enough to be in front of you when you read this or make up some excuse and leave, but this is what I want to say..."

I looked at her again...this time her face was even redder.

"I'll miss you while you're away."

Aw...that totally touched me. I closed the box and looked at the one who wrote it.

En: Well...
Me: Like I said...I won't laugh.
En: Thanks...I hope you like it.

What's there not to like? The frame is nice, the paper is nice, the handwriting is neat, even the paper is scented!

Me: That's nice...thanks.
En: I'll...I'll...miss you.
Me: Yeah...I'll...

Then at that point of time the PA system sounded off...

PA: Could Mr Stacey Brown come over to the information counter to collect his lost baggage. Oops...I mean Ms Stacey Brown.
(Name has been changed to protect the person)

I looked at En. She looked at me. And we both smiled and laughed. I guess she knew what I wanted to say...

En: You can put that in your room over there.
Me: Yeah.
En: The train's here.
Me: Okay...

We stood up and made our way to the train. We tapped our EZ-Link cards and walked into the train and sat on the seats.

Me: By the way...I have something to tell you.
En: What is it?
Me: You look beautiful today.
En: ... *smile*

And the train left Changi...

After a few stations, En asked me a question.

En: Hey...I have a question for you.
Me: Yeah?
En: Why do you think I am beautiful?

Wah...I didn't know such questions exists! It's a question I have not seen in any exam papers before. Even the ten-year series didn't prepare me for this. What should I say?

Me: Er...what a difficult question.

She smiled. She's learning to be like me already...acting blur...wanting to know the obvious.

Me: Well...because it's obvious that you look nice.

She placed her fingers on her chin...as if deep in thought. Did I say the wrong thing? Should I say that it's because her genetic makeup caused her to look this way? Nah...too geeky.

En: Then what's the difference when I wear my specs in school and now?

Wah...a "Compare and Contrast" question. Reminded me of my social studies paper during secondary school.

Me: Wah...since when did you learn to ask these type of questions?
En: Haha...since I met you.

Diao! Better think of an answer.

Me: Well you see, it's because you chose to show how you look now, the one without specs, only when I am around. So in a sense, you reserved that particular look of yours only for me. Because of that...

Shucks...stuck...say what?

En: Uh huh...

Me: Because of that...I feel that you trust me enough to show me a side of you that you don't usually show to others. Like I said before...it's an honour to be trusted by someone, especially if that someone is you.

She smiled sheepishly.

En: Aww...

I guess I answered correctly.

It's my turn to ping-pong the question back to her as I am interested to see how she would answer this question.

Me: How would you answer that question if you were in my shoes?
En: Erm...
Me: Yeah...
En: I would tell the truth like what you did.

Short and sweet answer and yet sufficient.

When the train reached around Dover, I was thinking whether I should send her back home. She stays in Boon Lay while I stay in Jurong. So I decided to ask her whether I should send her back home.

No lah...such questions how can ask her one? I decided to accompany her.

The train passed by Jurong MRT Station.

En: Eh? I thought you stay in Jurong?
Me: Yeah...but you don't.
En: Huh? What do you mean?

Diao! She didn't get it...is she acting? Then she smiled. Smart girl...now know how to act already. Must be learn from me one.

En: Thanks.
Me: No worries...although I will be leaving soon...so...

Aiya...I said the wrong thing...after saying that somehow she became sad. You see, sometimes getting an A+ in Speech need not translate into an A+ in real-life.

The station reached Boon Lay.

Me: Why not we go Jurong Point and eat?
En: Well, I am fine with where you want to eat so you decide.
Me: Okay...how about Kopitiam?
En: Okay.

So we made our way to Jurong Point Kopitiam. As usual, the Kopitiam is crowded as always.

Me: Why don't we dabao and eat somewhere else?
En: Okay.

So we dabao-ed (the past tense of dabao) our food and discussed where we should eat.

En: Why don't we eat under my HDB flat? I can bring drinks for us from my house. So we can save on the drinks.
Me: Okay...

We walked to her flat and ate. It was night time and while eating we talked for awhile. Talked about when the results are coming out, how next semester will be like, whether we will be joining any CCAs, why the moon is white, what it's like to be overseas...etc.

However, I noticed one thing. As we ate, En smiled less and less. Hm...

Me: I've finished my food.
En: Same here. Wait here while I go and take some packet drinks from my house.

I didn't want to appear cheapskate (like why a guy can't even buy drinks for two people) but she was the one who suggested it. So I agreed.

Me: Okay...I will be here.

Then she grabbed her bag and went up to her house.

Now that's strange. If she's coming back, why would she take her bag? Unless...nah...that's not possible...I am thinking too far.

I waited for quite awhile and still no sign of En...hm...something's amiss.

After waiting for around 30 minutes, I decided to knock on her door. I walked towards the lift and pressed the "Up" button. There's obviously no "Down" button since I am already on the first floor. The lift arrived and the doors opened.

Lo and behold...I saw...En's mother.

En's mum: Sorry to keep you waiting.
Me: Huh? What happened?
En's mum: Well, En does not want to see you leave...so she asked me to pass to you this packet drink.
Me: Ah...

So that's what it's all about. No wonder she took her bag. She must have planned for this while we were eating. No wonder she smiled less and less as we finished our food.

I took the packet drink from En's mum.

Me: Thanks auntie.
En's mum: You are welcome. By the way...enjoy your trip.
Me: Thanks.

With that En's mum went back to the lift while I walked away. As I walked away from the lift and looked into the moon, I thought of the the conversations between us from Changi all the way to now. The start was happy but somehow it ended in a sad tone where En did not even say bye. Sad.

Then suddenly without warning, a cat jumped out of the bushes in front of me. Wah...that was worse than a horror film. Then I heard someone say:

???: Don't worry...

Who could it be? It couldn't be her...could it?

I turned around and saw an uncle who was cleaning the premises.

Uncle: That's Ah Meow...he likes to jump in the bushes one, don't worry no need to be scared.
(Original was Chinese but I translated it to English.)

Wah...first a cat and now a scary looking uncle.

Then someone hugged me from behind. I recognized that smell.

En: It's going to be a long time huh...two months?

At that point of time...somehow...somehow...time stood still. Physics says that time, the fourth dimension, cannot be stopped. However, at that moment, it was proven to be wrong.

Me: ...

En started to sob.

En: I guess you have to go huh?
Me: ...

That would be the hardest question in the whole day.

En: Well...I hope you enjoy yourself.
Me: You're crying.
En: ...
Me: It's okay...it's two months only...not 2 years.
En: But still...

I don't know what else to say.

Me: It's okay...I still have around two more weeks here in Singapore before I leave.
En: Yeah...that's true...I guess I shouldn't be so sad after all.
Uncle: Wah...nice show to watch...who are you? His younger sister is it?
(Again, he spoke in Chinese but I translated it into English)

That uncle sure know how to ruin a nice situation.

She stopped hugging me and I turned around.

Me: Well...thanks for coming down. It's nice to see you again.
En: Take care yeah? And remember my face...
Me: Haha...

En smiled as she wiped the tears away from her eyes.

Me: You didn't wear your specs huh?
En: Like I said...it's for you.

She's a nice person and I should be nice to her.

I held her shoulders and waved goodbye. She smiled and waved back. Then I walked towards the bus stop.

Then suddenly I remembered something. I turned back. She was still standing there...at the same spot as if she knew I would turn back. I walked towards her.

En: Why? Is anything wrong?
Me: I have something to tell you.
En: Oh...what is it?

I walked towards her. When we are close, I looked at her and said...

Me: Keep your eyes to your books to while I am away yeah?

She smiled. That's good...it means that she agreed. This time she gave a pat on my shoulders.

En: I thought you'll never say that.
Me: Haha...I just said it.

And so, I went to the bus interchange and went back home.

(Note: This is a story. It's not 100% true. Most of the parts are made up through imagination. One reason why I don't use generic characters (e.g. John and Jane) in the story is that it feels detached. However, writing from the first-person, allows more emotions and feelings to be conveyed...or at least that's what I think.)

Touring Orchard Road 2

noreply@blogger.com (Steph) — Fri, 30 May 2008 14:25:00 +0000

Today I went to Orchard Road again for dinner with my friends. Before the dinner, I went to Orchard Road early to see what interesting things I can find. Oh yeah, my friend Ana accompanied me for a few hours before leaving to do her stuff.

I alighted at Orchard MRT and saw this advert on the floor (it's interesting how advertising companies are trying ways and means to find places to advertise).

There's a question with 3 choices. What's the answer? Quite simple actually. One very big hint is the hand mark. Do you jog with your hands? When rope-skipping, do your hands touch the floor (I am assuming you don't fall down)? Do you use your hands to support your body weight to lift the lower part of your body up in the sky while break-dancing? There's your answer. Nope, I didn't send my answer via SMS as I don't normally win in such competitions.

I took the escalator up and met Ana. We went to Takashimaya and saw this.

It's Kung-fu Panda! Aw...those kids just love him. However, seeing that Panda reminded me of the "Eats, shoots and leaves" joke. Anyway, when I came back to Taka later on I found the Panda scratching his bum.

Then he has two friends who showed some kung-fu moves.

Seeing how the kids react to all of Mr Panda's actions somehow reminded me of when I was small.

Next I went up Cathay to see see. Along the way, I saw this.

Can you see the writing on the black strip of processed polymer? The words written are "JC". Beside the two words is a smiley. I guess the Singapore Arts Fest left a mark here.

I reached the level where the movie posters were and I saw this. When I saw this poster a caption immediately hit me. Here's the poster.

"Yeah like Prince Caspian is actually Princess Barbie" or "Your actual GPA is above 4.5". These captions just hit me. See if you can come up with some...it's interesting...haha.

Then the time came for me to meet my friends and we went to Pastamania in Cathay to have our dinner. These are some pictures of the food we ate.

Cool huh? It was nice. The cost was around $55.00. There were 5 of us and so each of us paid $11.00. Quite ok lah I would say. After eating, we walked around and after some walking, I went back home. I would like to thank my friends for having this dinner with me before I leave Singapore.

Touring Orchard Road

noreply@blogger.com (Steph) — Thu, 29 May 2008 13:05:00 +0000

This afternoon I went to Orchard Road as a tourist. Sometimes as a Singaporean, we tend to miss things that other people (tourists for example) may notice. So my adventure began at noon.

I took an MRT to Orchard and alighted there. As I walked, I saw this.

Cool huh? It's a glass panel with blue lights behind! We don't have that over at where I stay (Jurong). Imagine if they start to flash people's faces instead of lights...hm...

Then I saw this promising advertisement.

Sounds too good to be true huh? Just use only AND win! So based on that sentence alone, you can use your card AND win SGD$100,000. Wah...tempting man. I think Singapore is giving away lots of money. They have another one here.

They should have stated some terms and conditions. Instead of saying use AND win. It's kinda deceiving don't you think?

Anyway, I went to the bus stop and saw this.

Pardon the poor quality. It's a board that informs commuters when a certain bus service would arrive. Pretty neat. They don't have this in where I stay. Sad.

Next is the shortest pedestrian crossing I have ever seen in my life. Here it is.

Just look at it! One car is enough to fill about 70% of the pedestrian crossing! It's definitely the shortest I have ever seen so far. In case you want to go there and take a look, here's another picture with the street sign.

It's at Angullia Park.

Then I saw this poor man who was just simply too tall.

This happens when you are too tall.

The next thing I saw is a very interesting form of advertisement. It's like a display on the floor where commuters can interact with it. Here's a picture.

In that picture, two kids (they are not mine) are playing around trying to "kick" the virtual balls. It would make an interesting FYP project for Engineering students.

Then I went to Plaza Singapura and saw this.

These are exhibits for "Science In The Mall". It's basically about insects and stuff which I am not really interested in. However, I saw this.

The poor butterfly was having an acupuncture session and died suddenly. Apparently, it had an overdose (or overkill) of needles. Hence it ended up as a display in the exhibit.

Here's a set of colourful butterflies which does not have any needles.

After looking around at the exhibits, I got hungry and ate this.

Tempting huh? Mango flavour somemore leh and I paid only $3.50 because got special student price. Mwahaha.

That wasn't enough. I went on and ate this.

Tako Pachi! The card on top allows you to collect stamps as you buy from them. When you have 10 stamps, you get a free packet! The $1 coin was there as the auntie short-changed me by $1. When I asked her then she remembered. Anyway, here's how it looks like inside the yellow styrofoam box.

Nice huh? Too bad, I ate all of them liao.

Next I went and shopped around. I saw this

Cute animals waiting for someone to adopt them. I wonder whether anyone will buy them.

While touring Orchard Road, I met some interesting people. I met two sisters posing on the road. Guess what their names were? Prada.

The next person was a lady staring at the Marriott logo with a handphone. What's the handphone for? Maybe to text someone that she finally found where Marriott was. Here's the picture.

Next was a lady who was busy for almost anything. Here's how she look like with her name.

Don't disturb her...she's bysi.

Finally I met a lady by the name of Elle Active.

Interesting name and surname.

There's one thing I don't understand. Why have an advertisement on the Razr phone with a lady beside the phone? How is the lady even linked to the phone? If you remove the lady from the picture, the advertisement still makes sense, but if you remove the phone from the advertisement, it won't make any sense. So from here we can see that the lady is not necessary. Why not have a man to hold the phone?

The same for the two sisters by the name of Prada. Prada refers to the bag. Why have an extra to hold it? Why not ask Barney the purple dinosaur to hold the bag? Okay for the Bysi advertisement that I understand. It's a women clothes store so they have a woman to wear one of their clothes...fine...logical. You can't ask a man or anyone else to wear as they are clothes for woman. The same for Elle Active. Okay maybe I asked too many questions but these are the thoughts that came to my mind.

Then as I went back home, I took a bus. I sat on my seat and saw something interesting.

Did you notice something? No? Look at the level of the seat. The seat is slanted towards the left. The one sitting on the left is a lady (see the ponytail?) and the one on the right is a man. So you have a lady and a man sitting on a seat that is slanted downwards towards where the lady is sitting. What conclusion can you draw? Yes! The lady is so heavy that the seat slanted towards her! But is it true? Or maybe the seat was originally like that. Hm...I can't possibly ask the lady to stand up and see if the seat bounce back. So I waited for her to alight.

Finally she alighted and my guess was true.

The seat is still slanted to the left. So the seat was originally slanted! (Or maybe the lady left with the seat permanently damaged).

What would happen if the man left. Do you expect anything to happen?

Here's the answer.

Nothing happened. The seat is still slanted.

THE END

The Smoking Bowl!

noreply@blogger.com (Steph) — Wed, 28 May 2008 13:51:00 +0000

Have you seen a smoking bowl before? No? Well let me show you hot it looks like.

It's a bowl with white "clouds" coming out from it. Cool huh? It seems as if something's gonna pop out of it. Now you have a reason not to eat that horrendous bowl of soup.

Here comes the interesting part - The Question!

What caused those smoke? No...it's not Steph who photoshoped all those smoke there.

I don't have any prizes for the correct answer, but the first to answer will get the satisfaction of being the first to answer :D

Update 29th May 2008:
Bob was the first to guessed the correct answer. The answer is dry ice was placed in the bowl of water.

Observations At KFC And Kopitiam

noreply@blogger.com (Steph) — Thu, 22 May 2008 15:19:00 +0000

First Observation (Jurong Point KFC)

The other day I was at KFC eating by myself. I ordered the new Fish Zinger meal and sat at one of the empty seats.

Next to my table was a mother and child. The child was a primary school kid. As I ate, I overheard the mum talking to her child. I can't remember the exact words, but the gist of it was that the child did not do very well for his exams and his PSLE was coming. Then the mother said something which I remembered.

Mother: You plan to go to HCI (Hwa Chong Institute) but with your results how to go? With your results you'll most probably end up in Commonwealth Normal Stream.

There! My secondary school's name was mentioned. I didn't know he aimed to go to my secondary school but she's true that my school does have a normal stream.

So what's the lesson?

First lesson: Never discuss exam results with your primary school kid while eating KFC with your child. The meal will taste like exam papers to your child and you'll look like your kid's form teacher for that short period of time.

Second lesson: Discrimination still exists in education. The point that the mother wanted her son to go to express and normal (also HCI instead of some other school) is an indication that discrimination still exists. It's a sad truth.

Third lesson: The Fish Zinger meal tastes nice!

Second Observation (IMM Kopitiam)

Today I went to IMM and ate with my family. While waiting for my family to order their food, I sat down and looked around. The couple behind me had just finished their meal and the lady was deciding whether she should leave her empty tissue packet on the table and walk off. I looked at her. She ignored me. She still hesitated, taking the packet and leaving the packet on the table. This went on for a few seconds and finally she walked off. I guess she expected someone else to throw it for her. I almost did the following...

Me: Excuse me Miss, you forgot your empty tissue packet.

I didn't do it as her boyfriend was there. So I decided that having a peaceful meal with my family is much better than an argument with a stranger. Maybe she's some big-shot or white horse. I don't know.

Anyway the Kopitiam cleaner (an old auntie) came and threw it away.

One more thing. Have you noticed that those Kopitiam cleaners normally consists of two groups of people? They are the elderly Singaporeans and the young foreign workers. Then there was this foreign worker (he's a cleaner) who argued with an auntie (she's also a cleaner). They argued about him not cleaning certain parts. The auntie was like "How come you never clean here?" and the foreign worker was like "Later lah!". Wow...it's my first time seeing such a thing and it's a sad reality.

First lesson: Please throw your own tissue packets. Pity the old lady who has to throw it for you.

Second lesson: Say "Thank you" to these senior citizens who clean your table after your meal. Show them that you appreciate their help.

Third lesson: The Grilled Fish Set at the Indonesian BBQ stall tastes great!

Viola And Lee Ann

noreply@blogger.com (Steph) — Sat, 10 May 2008 16:24:00 +0000

Lee Ann was the only child. She never ever got to see her parents and wondered who they were. Since small she was brought up by a lady with a disfigured face and horrible skin. The lady's name was Viola. The people in the village did not like to be around Viola due to her hideous appearance. Viola was treated as an outcast. They lived in a small house that has two rooms. Lee Ann stayed in the bigger room while Viola stayed in the smaller room.

As Lee Ann grew up, she became more and more beautiful. Soon, she became the most beautiful girl in school.

Everyday at school, Viola would wait at the school gate for Lee Ann. However, Lee Ann despised Viola. The reason was that Lee Ann was the most beautiful girl in school and Viola's company may spoil her image as the most beautiful student. Lee Ann would try ways and means to avoid Viola.

Then it happened...

It was raining. Viola waited outside the school for Lee Ann under the heavy rain. She saw Lee Ann walking out with her group of friends and approached her.

Lee Ann: So are we going out later?

Friend A: Look! Who's that?

Lee Ann saw Viola and turned angry. She had told Viola before to stop waiting for her but apparently, Viola did not listen. Lee Ann walked quickly to Viola's side and talked to her.

Viola: Lee Ann, take an umbrella. I brought one for you to keep you dry.

Lee Ann: What are you doing? Don't you know that I am the most beautiful girl in school?

Viola: Yes...I know that. You are beautiful.

Lee Ann: Then can you please stop waiting for me? What would my friends say if they see me with you?

Viola: ...

Lee Ann: Don't you know that you look terrible?

Viola: ...

Then one of Lee Ann's friends walked over to Lee Ann.

Friend A: Hey, who's that?

Lee Ann: Ah...don't bother about her...she's just some ugly maid my parents employed to take care of me.

Friend A: I see. It's raining heavily...why don't we use my umbrella? It's big enough for the two of us.

Lee Ann: That's a good idea.

With that Lee Ann walked away with her friend leaving Viola behind under the heavy rain with two umbrellas. What Lee Ann did not notice was the tears that rolled down Viola's cheeks in the midst of the heavy rain.

When Lee Ann came back, Viola approached her.

Viola: I am sorry that I made you angry today.

Lee Ann: Well what did you expect? I told you to stop coming and you never listen!

Viola: Lee Ann, are you free?

Lee Ann: Not really. Why?

Viola: I have something to show you.

Lee Ann: Argh...okay...okay...but be quick.

Viola: Please wait here.

Lee Ann waited at the living room while Viola entered her small room.

Lee Ann: Are you done yet? I am busy you know!

Viola walked out of her room with a small wooden box towards Lee Ann and opened the wooden box.

Viola: Lee Ann, take a look at this photo.

Lee Ann: Is this...

Viola: Yes...she is your mother.

Lee Ann: She looks beautiful...she looks just like me.

Viola: Yes...she is beautiful just like you...and her face is similar to yours.

Lee Ann: Well, what are you waiting for? Tell me where she is now! I want to be with her instead of you!

Viola: It happened a long time ago in this village. You were young then. There was this lady who went to the market. As she bought food for her child, her neighbor went around and shouted "Fire! Fire!". The lady immediately asked the man where the fire was and the neighbor told her that the fire was at her house. Hearing this, the lady immediately dropped her bag and went back home because she realized that her child was alone at home. When she reached the place, the house was burning. She tried to rush in but her neighbors restrained her. However, seeing that no one was able to save her child inside, she found the strength to break her way through the human barrier and ran into the house.

Viola: She could hear the cries of her child. Immediately, she rushed through the fire to the child's room. As she made her way to the child's room, the fire around burnt her skin. Then she saw the child crying in the crib amidst the fire. The lady immediately ran to the crib and took her child and ran to the nearest exit. However, she did not notice the dangling lamp above. It fell and cut her face. Nevertheless, the pain was negligible in the midst of the fire and her child's cries. The child's safety was more important. She emerged from the burning house with badly burnt skin and a bleeding face. However, the most important thing to her then was her child.

Lee Ann: You mean...

Viola: That lady used to be the most beautiful woman in the village.

Lee Ann: ...

Viola: That lady is your mother.

Lee Ann: ...

Viola: That lady's name is Viola.

At this point of time, Lee Ann cried. She didn't realize that the mother she so longed to see has always been at her side. She took the photo and looked at Viola. Lee Ann realized that behind the scars and burns on the lady in front of her was a beautiful woman, just like the one in the photo.

Viola: I am sorry Lee Ann...I did not tell you earlier as I did not want you to live with the fact that your mother is a hideous looking woman with scars and burns on her body. I knew you would grow up to be beautiful and...

Before Viola could continue, Lee Ann hugged her and cried...

Lee Ann: Mum...I am sorry...please forgive me...

That moment was the very first time Lee Ann ever addressed Viola as "mum". Viola shed tears...tears of joy...and hugged her daughter Lee Ann. A mother had found acceptance and her daughter had found her mother. It was a joyous moment shared by a mother and her daughter.

And that day was Mother's Day.

(This is a Mother's Day Story I thought of during the week. It is a tribute to all mothers out there. Happy Mothers Day. I hope that you will appreciate the love and concern your mother has shown you through your life.)

The Chicken Rice Encounter

noreply@blogger.com (Steph) — Fri, 09 May 2008 02:14:00 +0000

A few days ago, I went to a particular food court. I can't remember if it's Kopitiam or Koufu or some other name. It's located in Orchard area. I was hungry so I went around looking at the different stalls.

Then I saw this chicken rice stall. I stood at the counter there and the man behind seemed busy with some documents. So I waited. When he lifted his head and saw me guess what he said?

.
..
...
....
.....

He didn't say anything.

Me: "Uncle one plate of chicken rice".

Then the man went to prepare a plate for me. At this point of time, a foreigner (I won't say from which country) came and stood beside me. When the chicken rice man lifted his head and saw him guess what he said?

Uncle: Good Morning Sir! What can I do for you?
Foreigner: One chicken rice please.
Uncle: Sure coming right up!

I was like "Er...er...er...I was totally ignored just now and this guy gets greeted"?

Anyway, at this point of time, I was very interested who he would serve first. Technically, I ordered first so...I should get my food first right? That's why I was interested to see who the uncle would serve first. I waited. Ah...there's a plate ready.

The uncle took the plate, lifted it and placed it on the foreigner's tray! Then he lifted the other plate and placed it on my tray. Apparently, he prepared two plates and served them at the same time. Interesting...I can't help but smile at all these.

Was it due to bias or was it done to save time (since cut one chicken might as well cut another one to save time)?

Anyway, I took my tray and walked towards an empty table. The rice was surprisingly nice and he gave me the chicken parts with minimal bones.

Lesson learnt: Don't wear berms, sandals and a T-shirt else you'll be treated as a kid.

Presenting the Clustarack!

noreply@blogger.com (Steph) — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 13:08:00 +0000

This is what engineers do in their free time.

Cool huh? Anyway, it takes the whole team a lot of hard work. Just to get the video you just saw, they had to tape 90+ tries! It's like going through your final exams for 90+ times! Imagine the horror! Furthermore, such contraptions are insanely hardly to predict. A truck that whooshed past may trigger some unnecessary parts to trigger. Here's another video that documents the process. You gotta admire these people at Clustarack.

What would happen if my friends and I decided to try...hm...

Me: Friend_A, is the printer cartridge ready?
Friend_A: Yeah. But you must aim properly and throw it such that it hits that stack of 2B pencils.
Me: Friend_B you heard that? Our experiment lies in your hands.
Friend_B: Ya lah...I know.
Me: Okay I have the camera ready. At the count of three yeah?
Friend_A: One...Two...Three!

Yes...yes...everything's going on fine. Cartridge hits stack of pencils and the stack of pencils fall onto the floor! Success!

Everyone: Yay!
Me: You think we should put this on YouTube?
Friend_A: Yeah! I think we should.
Friend_B: If we did that, it will be pretty retarded.
Me: Somehow...I agree with Friend_B.

Would you like to try?