In case you are caught off guard with this header, do not be surprised. I am NOT getting married (at the moment) but still I cannot defy the nature’s course of getting old. (Maybe shall I say, I am aging like old wine?) *ponders*
Sumiko Tan’s article in Sunday Times have once again weaned on the never-ending issue of the GREAT marriage leap. Instead of whining (she does that often), she shifted her target to Fann Wong (of all people… well, perhaps Sumiko did take up some Sun Tzu’s lessons)
Anyway, the underlying issue of her article is still this: Getting on with the years.
It comes to no surprise. Women since historians instructed scribes on the written form of history, have chased the dream: ever-lasting youthfulness. From Cleopatra to modern day ladies in society, who, in her right frame of mind; does not want to be adored and revered by men at her feet?
From the traditional wrinkle-remover of our grandmothers’ era to the modern day SK-II product ranges featuring a wide array of stars with their baby-like skin, who DOES not want to have such beauty? Men, from paupers to emperors forsake everything, so as to lay their hands on such marvellous products of nature. Needless to say, men these days are no indifferent from the emperors and men of yesteryears.
Imagine going under the knife to attain the looks of the Koreans or the Japanese, women have placed great emphasis on their looks. From Botox jabs to bust lifts advertisements that sprung up not too long back like a whole burrow of rabbits, it is little wonder why aging women like Sumiko, look back and wonder what else could be done. Unless they are the likes of the aunties and grannies that roam around in pyjamas like fashion parade shows (was indeed once fashionable… I wonder why of all outfits, why pyjamas) *scratchs head*, I would say most ladies are well-dressed for the occasions these days.
I do not deny that men are getting onto the vanity flow as well. Metrosexuals, a term I hear flying around these days and of course the gay community are very much such ‘needs’ (imagine, a luxury have now been upgraded to become a ‘need’ in the lives of some personnel)
Before anyone start cussing and try to flip my cupboard for anything, I use the usual facial wash and a toner at night (not regularly… forget to clean) to clean my face these days… moisturizers come in handy when the winter winds start to cut into the face when I am at work. So that is it, nothing more.
Back to the main issue at hand… the looking-good comes naturally under the ‘attraction’ process. Animals too have their version of fashion shows… look at the peacock and you get the idea. But the reality check is the older you get, the less attraction you have. Unless specifically that you are Lisa Wang or Rene Russo, a greater proportion of how we look in future is already written across our very eyes… take a good look around you and you have the future in your eyes. Perhaps some of those happily unmarried, fear the same downfall should they choose to pick the red carpet down the aisle. Perhaps only…
But I believe that it is not only the physical outlook that matters most, I have seen the fair share of average looking SGeans tied down earlier than their well-endowed, attractive peers. Of course I am not comparing the rate at which they get hitched, do not get me wrong there then.
The co-relation goes like this:
Attractive = married off earlier, no worries about being left on the shelf
Unattractive = high possibilities of being the statistics of being unmarried in SG.
In the current marriage-cum-family-pro setting in SG, the article serves like a hot butter knife into personnel such as Fann Wong. No offence to those who chose to remain single, Sumiko Tan probably wanted to shift some attention off and hand in a piece for placating her bosses.
Last words, those nonsensical ‘Extreme Makeovers’ reality shows sub-consciously rubs the fact that to look good and attractive is THE WAY and it is a sad fact that this is how the society governs the rules of survival.
So crudely put across, to get married, you must be attractive. Sad but this is the fact in this world.
February 28, 2005
February 25, 2005
Happiness...
Was in the IRC channel adding my usual salvo to some unknown netter.
This netter soon 'private' me and I dragged my feet, since I have nothing important on.
The conversation went on until the following was made:
Netter - What is happiness?
Me - You define your own happiness. Dont ask me
I am stating the fact... how could YOU ask another what happiness is? To each person, there are 1001 reasons which can make you happy, be it short term or long term. But in the modern society, it is very unusual to find someone happy for too long.
To quote Lao Tzi “Dao De Jing’ 1st chapter,
“Dao, ke dao, fei chang dao;
Ming, ke ming, fei chang ming”
老子" 道德经" 第一章
[道，可道，非常道
名，可名，非常名]
Translation (forgive me if I did a bad job of translation... I will do my best)
"If the Way can be stated/described, then it is not the Way"
"If a Name can be named with words, then it is not a Name"
---
To me, if happiness can be defined, then it is no longer the ‘happiness’ that you and I know of. It has become an entity, a subject, a tangible item which can be classified.
Similarly, what can make you happy may not necessarily make me feel the same. So it is sad, that the netter could have asked me such a question. In reality, I am sure that there are many people who is still seeking their own happiness.
---
It is sad to see that many of the people around us are in fact unhappy. Unhappy with what?
With work, with family, with wife, with children, with boss, with pay, with Ah GONG, with not winning the 10M ToTo.... etc etc.
Material gains, have become a yardstick of success in our modern day society. Cars, condos, cash, certificates, career… maybe for some men, condoms used… do count as well. (This is only my assumption and does not necessarily reflect the views of others)
We have been inculcated since young, study hard… get good job… be rich.
Believe me, I had once preached the same tone to my younger cousins before. Alas, it is too late to take these words back. There are things in the world, which certainly precedes the wants of having hoards of cash.
Those who have not reached what society deems to be the ‘success’ levels, do not fret, do not feel disheartened. These are merely products of our greed. Do you think those people with such luxury are contended with what they have? A high probability would show that they would not sit on their laurels and count their chickens, so to say. They will end up relentlessly pursuing more and more and more….. pray thee, when is the final stop to it then?
---
For those who are parents, what could be more priceless to see your young one giving you that special smile that could melt your heart?
Though I am not married, but it was certainly a delight when my niece (first gal in the family line) first addressed me ‘Shushu’. Just imagine, my niece addressing me could make my knees wobbly… thus if my child would have to call me ‘Daddy’, I think I would have gone and reach for the moon or the star for my child.
Over the course of the years that swept by, the little tots of my brother have gone from crawling all over the house to ransacking the house, almost tearing the house down with their antics, especially emptying the powder bottle for fun.
Time does really flies.
---
I believe that many male members out there are very earnest in their livelihood, mainly to secure the dough to feed the family. I am also certain that there are men who take pride in seeing their off-springs take the first toddler steps… the first time they were addressed as ‘papa’ or ‘daddy’… But over the years, many of these fathers have degenerated into working machines, walking ATMs which dispenses the money when depressed; leaving the caring of the children into the hands of the mothers. It is of little wonder that fathers are the neglected bunch of homo-sapiens ever.
Of course among the flock, there are bound to be bad sheep around, an issue which some would not like to have it mention here. Anyway, this is only the tip of the iceberg; I can come up with more topics to babble about from this one.
Cheers
HJ
This netter soon 'private' me and I dragged my feet, since I have nothing important on.
The conversation went on until the following was made:
Netter - What is happiness?
Me - You define your own happiness. Dont ask me
I am stating the fact... how could YOU ask another what happiness is? To each person, there are 1001 reasons which can make you happy, be it short term or long term. But in the modern society, it is very unusual to find someone happy for too long.
To quote Lao Tzi “Dao De Jing’ 1st chapter,
“Dao, ke dao, fei chang dao;
Ming, ke ming, fei chang ming”
老子" 道德经" 第一章
[道，可道，非常道
名，可名，非常名]
Translation (forgive me if I did a bad job of translation... I will do my best)
"If the Way can be stated/described, then it is not the Way"
"If a Name can be named with words, then it is not a Name"
---
To me, if happiness can be defined, then it is no longer the ‘happiness’ that you and I know of. It has become an entity, a subject, a tangible item which can be classified.
Similarly, what can make you happy may not necessarily make me feel the same. So it is sad, that the netter could have asked me such a question. In reality, I am sure that there are many people who is still seeking their own happiness.
---
It is sad to see that many of the people around us are in fact unhappy. Unhappy with what?
With work, with family, with wife, with children, with boss, with pay, with Ah GONG, with not winning the 10M ToTo.... etc etc.
Material gains, have become a yardstick of success in our modern day society. Cars, condos, cash, certificates, career… maybe for some men, condoms used… do count as well. (This is only my assumption and does not necessarily reflect the views of others)
We have been inculcated since young, study hard… get good job… be rich.
Believe me, I had once preached the same tone to my younger cousins before. Alas, it is too late to take these words back. There are things in the world, which certainly precedes the wants of having hoards of cash.
Those who have not reached what society deems to be the ‘success’ levels, do not fret, do not feel disheartened. These are merely products of our greed. Do you think those people with such luxury are contended with what they have? A high probability would show that they would not sit on their laurels and count their chickens, so to say. They will end up relentlessly pursuing more and more and more….. pray thee, when is the final stop to it then?
---
For those who are parents, what could be more priceless to see your young one giving you that special smile that could melt your heart?
Though I am not married, but it was certainly a delight when my niece (first gal in the family line) first addressed me ‘Shushu’. Just imagine, my niece addressing me could make my knees wobbly… thus if my child would have to call me ‘Daddy’, I think I would have gone and reach for the moon or the star for my child.
Over the course of the years that swept by, the little tots of my brother have gone from crawling all over the house to ransacking the house, almost tearing the house down with their antics, especially emptying the powder bottle for fun.
Time does really flies.
---
I believe that many male members out there are very earnest in their livelihood, mainly to secure the dough to feed the family. I am also certain that there are men who take pride in seeing their off-springs take the first toddler steps… the first time they were addressed as ‘papa’ or ‘daddy’… But over the years, many of these fathers have degenerated into working machines, walking ATMs which dispenses the money when depressed; leaving the caring of the children into the hands of the mothers. It is of little wonder that fathers are the neglected bunch of homo-sapiens ever.
Of course among the flock, there are bound to be bad sheep around, an issue which some would not like to have it mention here. Anyway, this is only the tip of the iceberg; I can come up with more topics to babble about from this one.
Cheers
HJ
February 24, 2005
Lost.....
Came back on the 21st and received a message that I have a missed call. It was my mother who called me and I was wondering what was up....
Conversation goes like this:
Me - "Wei, what is the matter?'
Mum -"Did Ah Ong (my 9th uncle) call you?"
Me -"(Puzzled) Ah Ong? Why did he need to call me?"
Mum -"He didnt call you?"
Me -"Do you know who I am?"
Mum -"Dunno leh... who are you?(Getting lost....)"
Me -"I am your son... *pengz*
Mum -"Orrrr... I do not who you are mah...Aiya, I thought you are Ah Wah (my 10th Uncle)... never mind lah..."
Me -"Okie lor....*shakes my head... laughs*"
Hang up.
Terrible... since when did I became a lost son?
Conversation goes like this:
Me - "Wei, what is the matter?'
Mum -"Did Ah Ong (my 9th uncle) call you?"
Me -"(Puzzled) Ah Ong? Why did he need to call me?"
Mum -"He didnt call you?"
Me -"Do you know who I am?"
Mum -"Dunno leh... who are you?(Getting lost....)"
Me -"I am your son... *pengz*
Mum -"Orrrr... I do not who you are mah...Aiya, I thought you are Ah Wah (my 10th Uncle)... never mind lah..."
Me -"Okie lor....*shakes my head... laughs*"
Hang up.
Terrible... since when did I became a lost son?
February 23, 2005
Summed up... so much so far...
After two hectic weeks of travelling, I could finally bum myself infront of my laptop and breathe easy. Actually, I have plans to head up to Laos but given the next departure overseas is scheduled for 11th March, I could only postpone this Laos trip sometime later this year.
Have already got down to work on my 'spoils of war' (photos) and have them uploaded onto the internet for viewing. Though the quantity this time round does not exceed my Thailand trip, I came back more honed in my shooting skills. I could not be qualified as what people say are good and still have alot more to play catch-up with. Any critisims, suggestions would certainly make my day better.
---
Coming bcak from HK, I must say it is a well-rewarded trip. Not only I had some company business settled with and on my flight over, I have the pleasure of getting to know someone new. Besides this, I saw many minor and yet meaningful situations that jolted me out of my dream-like state.
My social circle of friends have hardly ever expanded... apart from the maritime sector, most of my lunches/dinners/ appointments were mostly with my friends whom I got to know many years ago (Do I make them seem old when I say this? *smiles*)
Anyway, most of these friends have already taken on a new chapter in life. Most of them have tied the knot/settled down/became parents (in no particular order....) wherelse dear me, is still floundering around in the high seas and grand oceans.
I see no particular regret in my career path. In many instances and diary entries, I have often made my stand: the decision to make my foray into the maritime world was never wrong.
For without the vast experience I have amassed over the years, I would not have be standing where I am now.
For a change, I even took time off while onboard to do a recap of my life since my memories began to take note of events then. Time is a commodity never scarce while onboard. It boils down to time management, being the master of your time instead of the other way round.
I remembered there was a time when my 10-year plan came to the finale and my whereabouts, direction and focus were the main issues on my mind. It was after a depression that shook me up and my life took a battering, I began to realise the follies of my past were distracting me and weighing me down for the better.
With heed to advice, I began laying foundations from the strength of my faith. The tide of strength that flowed through was immeasurable and set forth the path for a long road ahead.
In this real world, we define what is reality. But nary a one could imagine the world is what we imagined it to be. Considering that you are the one in the show 'Matrix' and having popped the pill that resulted you being 'unplugged' from the system, tell me... how would you feel?
A bit heavy on the reading today... take some time off and think about what the forebears have said. These are not my 'ideas/theories/philosophy' and I would be a lame liar if I said these words are mine; I merely para-quote, rephrased them in a slightly different context.
Cheers
HJ
Have already got down to work on my 'spoils of war' (photos) and have them uploaded onto the internet for viewing. Though the quantity this time round does not exceed my Thailand trip, I came back more honed in my shooting skills. I could not be qualified as what people say are good and still have alot more to play catch-up with. Any critisims, suggestions would certainly make my day better.
---
Coming bcak from HK, I must say it is a well-rewarded trip. Not only I had some company business settled with and on my flight over, I have the pleasure of getting to know someone new. Besides this, I saw many minor and yet meaningful situations that jolted me out of my dream-like state.
My social circle of friends have hardly ever expanded... apart from the maritime sector, most of my lunches/dinners/ appointments were mostly with my friends whom I got to know many years ago (Do I make them seem old when I say this? *smiles*)
Anyway, most of these friends have already taken on a new chapter in life. Most of them have tied the knot/settled down/became parents (in no particular order....) wherelse dear me, is still floundering around in the high seas and grand oceans.
I see no particular regret in my career path. In many instances and diary entries, I have often made my stand: the decision to make my foray into the maritime world was never wrong.
For without the vast experience I have amassed over the years, I would not have be standing where I am now.
For a change, I even took time off while onboard to do a recap of my life since my memories began to take note of events then. Time is a commodity never scarce while onboard. It boils down to time management, being the master of your time instead of the other way round.
I remembered there was a time when my 10-year plan came to the finale and my whereabouts, direction and focus were the main issues on my mind. It was after a depression that shook me up and my life took a battering, I began to realise the follies of my past were distracting me and weighing me down for the better.
With heed to advice, I began laying foundations from the strength of my faith. The tide of strength that flowed through was immeasurable and set forth the path for a long road ahead.
In this real world, we define what is reality. But nary a one could imagine the world is what we imagined it to be. Considering that you are the one in the show 'Matrix' and having popped the pill that resulted you being 'unplugged' from the system, tell me... how would you feel?
A bit heavy on the reading today... take some time off and think about what the forebears have said. These are not my 'ideas/theories/philosophy' and I would be a lame liar if I said these words are mine; I merely para-quote, rephrased them in a slightly different context.
Cheers
HJ
February 19, 2005
Pirate Press - Cold and wet edition
Woke up to a drizzling and wet morning. It is still comfortable within the premises of my abode but with the temperature hovering at 12 degrees outside,I would say most SGeans would KPKB about the weather (very usual...)
Last edition I mentioned being on the trail for the DVD and good news is, I have GOT it *Punch the air... displays V-sign* Finally, after roaming around like a wraith for the DVD, I enjoyed the sweet taste of victory. On top of that, I even had the other titles
- My Sassy Girl
- A Lover's concerto (Son Ye-Jin)
What a clean sweep I had... With my spoils of war, I turned in for the night... a happy man *smiles* And all these took place on the 16th, the very night I came in. I was unwilling to give up after the first few shops turned up nothing. And you would have never expected what a midnight walkabout turned up.
Yesterday was basically business... and I shall not bore my readers with the typical routine mechanisms of meetings.
---
Today will be on a temple-hopping walkabout, despite the wet weather. The Great Bronze Buddha trip might have to be postphoned to another time. I have Macau on the agenda for tomorrow and the day after. Check back again for more updates then.
your ever friendly pirate,
HJ
Last edition I mentioned being on the trail for the DVD and good news is, I have GOT it *Punch the air... displays V-sign* Finally, after roaming around like a wraith for the DVD, I enjoyed the sweet taste of victory. On top of that, I even had the other titles
- My Sassy Girl
- A Lover's concerto (Son Ye-Jin)
What a clean sweep I had... With my spoils of war, I turned in for the night... a happy man *smiles* And all these took place on the 16th, the very night I came in. I was unwilling to give up after the first few shops turned up nothing. And you would have never expected what a midnight walkabout turned up.
Yesterday was basically business... and I shall not bore my readers with the typical routine mechanisms of meetings.
---
Today will be on a temple-hopping walkabout, despite the wet weather. The Great Bronze Buddha trip might have to be postphoned to another time. I have Macau on the agenda for tomorrow and the day after. Check back again for more updates then.
your ever friendly pirate,
HJ
February 17, 2005
Pirate Press - Pearl of the East edition
*this edition has been edited for some errata on 18th Feb*
Swooped down into this happening land again. Though my last visit was about a year (almost... was here in Sep 03) and things seemed to have changed a lot since then.
Anyway, made an acquaintence on the plane and she kindly offered to assist me in my lodgings in Macau should I need it. Many thanks to this fellow Singaporean for her generosity. It is a first since I hardly bump into such personality on planes. Most of my time on the planes are:
- sleep *snore snore snore... hush.... not so loud!* OR
- watching the latest screening of the movie I always wanted to catch. (Not bad... kills two birds with a stone) OR
- reading whatever book I have tagged along to kill time.
Thus, this lady did make a lasting impression *AHEM...dont let your thoughts run wild pleaseeee?* Anyway, case closed. She's going to start work in Macau tomorrow. In fact we watched 'Shall we dance?' together... erm... she watched her screen, I watched mine.
---
Did my usual walkabout around Tsim Sha Tsui and met up with my local friend and my captain too for dinner. I have gotten the hang of the place again. Afterall, the area from Tsim Sha Tsui towards Mongkok does not really change too much in appearance. Thus after a while of navigating in these areas, you will get the hang of it without the maps.
The tinge of PRCs hangs heavy in the shopping areas of Yau Ma Tei... practically everywhere are signs of the Chinese splurging their unknown-sourced- cash. I
Anyway, did purchase some items (as at now) and still on the trail of chasing down the DVD of the Korean show 'Il Mare' (They have the VCD...but I hope I can snag the DVD one). I still have a few more days to hunt this show down. I already have 'The Classic' but this 'Il Mare' have eluded me for some years already. *whips out magnifying glass and puts on checkered cape... whistles Pink Panther tune*
So much for tonight. This Mariners' Club really suits me fine... for 350 HKD a night I am far better off than those who live in the Penisular (just across the street) *chuckles*
Cheers
HJ
Swooped down into this happening land again. Though my last visit was about a year (almost... was here in Sep 03) and things seemed to have changed a lot since then.
Anyway, made an acquaintence on the plane and she kindly offered to assist me in my lodgings in Macau should I need it. Many thanks to this fellow Singaporean for her generosity. It is a first since I hardly bump into such personality on planes. Most of my time on the planes are:
- sleep *snore snore snore... hush.... not so loud!* OR
- watching the latest screening of the movie I always wanted to catch. (Not bad... kills two birds with a stone) OR
- reading whatever book I have tagged along to kill time.
Thus, this lady did make a lasting impression *AHEM...dont let your thoughts run wild pleaseeee?* Anyway, case closed. She's going to start work in Macau tomorrow. In fact we watched 'Shall we dance?' together... erm... she watched her screen, I watched mine.
---
Did my usual walkabout around Tsim Sha Tsui and met up with my local friend and my captain too for dinner. I have gotten the hang of the place again. Afterall, the area from Tsim Sha Tsui towards Mongkok does not really change too much in appearance. Thus after a while of navigating in these areas, you will get the hang of it without the maps.
The tinge of PRCs hangs heavy in the shopping areas of Yau Ma Tei... practically everywhere are signs of the Chinese splurging their unknown-sourced- cash. I
Anyway, did purchase some items (as at now) and still on the trail of chasing down the DVD of the Korean show 'Il Mare' (They have the VCD...but I hope I can snag the DVD one). I still have a few more days to hunt this show down. I already have 'The Classic' but this 'Il Mare' have eluded me for some years already. *whips out magnifying glass and puts on checkered cape... whistles Pink Panther tune*
So much for tonight. This Mariners' Club really suits me fine... for 350 HKD a night I am far better off than those who live in the Penisular (just across the street) *chuckles*
Cheers
HJ
February 16, 2005
Best forgotten?
Now showing in Cathay Cineplex, a Moment to Remember by Son-Ye Jin (of 'The Classic') was recently reviewed.
"A tear-jerking drama in which love blossoms between a poor carpenter whose the only goal in life is to become an architect and a career woman born with a silver spoon in her mouth but doomed with Alzheimer's disease... "
This storyline goes very similar to another earlier english movie 'The Notebook', a Nicohlas Sparks book adapted. Previous titles to his name is 'Message in a Bottle' - Kevin Costner, 'A Walk to Remember' - Mandy Moore.
The Notebook - relates a similar theme as Moment, but it is more teary in the fact that the female lead would eventually forgot who she was and who her husband was.
Depressing? Melodramatic? I digress... sometimes I wish I get my memory wiped out once in a while, just like what Ben Affleck got in the show 'Paycheck' *uses laser and burns away the memory cells*
---
Imagine your other half wasting away, with no recollection of you and your relationship and you would place more apathy towards the characters in the movies. Maybe I am a tad too sensitive, hence that is why I feel entangled with the moods of the characters. *smiles*
Memories to some are a bliss, but very often than not, some memories are best forgotten. How often have we get into a mess because of our own fears? Frankly I admit, till now there are times I cannot pacify the overwhelming torrents of memories that comes gushing now and then. This is probably one of the main reasons that I seek solace in my faith, to find the the peace I desperately try to maintain.
In the Buddhist world, memories are but our attachments to past events... more often than not, it is best advised to let go. But the actual state of letting go is not just paying lip service, more often than not, it is confronting your inner demons, confronting your own self in the most fragile conditions. We all have our pasts... some memories are worth recollecting, but there are times where these frightful ones come back to haunt you.
Easier said than done...
---
Given the choice, I would rather be the one forgetting... how I wish.
HJ
"A tear-jerking drama in which love blossoms between a poor carpenter whose the only goal in life is to become an architect and a career woman born with a silver spoon in her mouth but doomed with Alzheimer's disease... "
This storyline goes very similar to another earlier english movie 'The Notebook', a Nicohlas Sparks book adapted. Previous titles to his name is 'Message in a Bottle' - Kevin Costner, 'A Walk to Remember' - Mandy Moore.
The Notebook - relates a similar theme as Moment, but it is more teary in the fact that the female lead would eventually forgot who she was and who her husband was.
Depressing? Melodramatic? I digress... sometimes I wish I get my memory wiped out once in a while, just like what Ben Affleck got in the show 'Paycheck' *uses laser and burns away the memory cells*
---
Imagine your other half wasting away, with no recollection of you and your relationship and you would place more apathy towards the characters in the movies. Maybe I am a tad too sensitive, hence that is why I feel entangled with the moods of the characters. *smiles*
Memories to some are a bliss, but very often than not, some memories are best forgotten. How often have we get into a mess because of our own fears? Frankly I admit, till now there are times I cannot pacify the overwhelming torrents of memories that comes gushing now and then. This is probably one of the main reasons that I seek solace in my faith, to find the the peace I desperately try to maintain.
In the Buddhist world, memories are but our attachments to past events... more often than not, it is best advised to let go. But the actual state of letting go is not just paying lip service, more often than not, it is confronting your inner demons, confronting your own self in the most fragile conditions. We all have our pasts... some memories are worth recollecting, but there are times where these frightful ones come back to haunt you.
Easier said than done...
---
Given the choice, I would rather be the one forgetting... how I wish.
HJ
Came and Gone
CNY came and gone... after those few days of travelling, it was an real eye-opener to be in another country celebrating the festival, even though I was all by myself.
Now having tasted what it is like in another country when CNY falls, the thought of spending another one next year in another country took root. But I did some mental sums and it would seem that I might be onboard celebrating instead. (what a wet blanket... was hoping to head to Laos for the celebration) *twiddles thumbs, hope for miracle... chuckles*
Last sat was reading an article, condemning how ridiculously quiet Chinatown becomes after the eve. Streets were cleaned up as quickly as the crowd went off. On the first day, a newly arrived person would think Chinatown have become a ghost town. Comparing to what I have seen in Bangkok, it certainly makes more sense to be away for the festival among the younger generation. Values degrading? Very much and very thankful to, among all other factors, our westernisation.
On this westernisation issue, there is much fuel for debate... probably I shall put up another topic to blab over.
Valentines day came and gone as well. I did nothing much unusual. Only had a lunch with a friend in my alma mata. And over lunch, the conversation went around and touched on my singlehood. My friend came up with the suggestion that I should go try lunchactually.com.
The notion of such means and Vietnam brides (also came up during my class gathering on Sat 12 Feb) seems to slip off my shoulders *too slippery haha*
Both this friend and my classmate popped the same statement over how I would be able to find my OTHER half when I continue on with my career path. *Great minds think alike?!*
Over the years many have asked me if I ever felt lonely. I have this para-quote
"Being alone is being alone
Being lonely is fear of being alone...."
Besides in my line of work, I have accustomed to being by myself for long periods of time (though I get very 'naggy' in my emails... trust me. It (email) is probably an avenue where I could express myself anything anywhere. Hey, do not be surprised that I find myself naggy at times too! *LAUGHS*) So 'Ji Mo' and 'Gu Du' have became part of my life that I have got so used that I can get uneasy and claustraphobic over the evening, weekend crowds in shopping centres and public areas.
I probably did not ever spend a meaningful Vday before for the record. Infact, I barely spend any special days together with my other half in my previous relations. Boils down to the fact that I come and go off before anyone realised that I have came back to SG *laughs*
So even as the big 30 comes looming in about a year's time and everyone around me, including my best friend is tying the knot... (Sang gor lou chan... chong chi bei kuan = cantonese rhyme aimed to dig at bridegrooms, erm, not really good in translating this part though, bear with me *laughs again*)
Time flies and I would soon step back into my 'twilight zone' *plays tune as enhancement effect*
It might then be a long period before I can really get down to sit in front of a internet connection. Probably when you see my 'rare' posting, it is very probably that I have already finished my next contract. *smiles*
Quite heavy reading today... and there is much more coming in coming editions. Do not fret... I have not finished resting at home yet, OK!? Stay tuned.
Cheers
HJ
Now having tasted what it is like in another country when CNY falls, the thought of spending another one next year in another country took root. But I did some mental sums and it would seem that I might be onboard celebrating instead. (what a wet blanket... was hoping to head to Laos for the celebration) *twiddles thumbs, hope for miracle... chuckles*
Last sat was reading an article, condemning how ridiculously quiet Chinatown becomes after the eve. Streets were cleaned up as quickly as the crowd went off. On the first day, a newly arrived person would think Chinatown have become a ghost town. Comparing to what I have seen in Bangkok, it certainly makes more sense to be away for the festival among the younger generation. Values degrading? Very much and very thankful to, among all other factors, our westernisation.
On this westernisation issue, there is much fuel for debate... probably I shall put up another topic to blab over.
Valentines day came and gone as well. I did nothing much unusual. Only had a lunch with a friend in my alma mata. And over lunch, the conversation went around and touched on my singlehood. My friend came up with the suggestion that I should go try lunchactually.com.
The notion of such means and Vietnam brides (also came up during my class gathering on Sat 12 Feb) seems to slip off my shoulders *too slippery haha*
Both this friend and my classmate popped the same statement over how I would be able to find my OTHER half when I continue on with my career path. *Great minds think alike?!*
Over the years many have asked me if I ever felt lonely. I have this para-quote
"Being alone is being alone
Being lonely is fear of being alone...."
Besides in my line of work, I have accustomed to being by myself for long periods of time (though I get very 'naggy' in my emails... trust me. It (email) is probably an avenue where I could express myself anything anywhere. Hey, do not be surprised that I find myself naggy at times too! *LAUGHS*) So 'Ji Mo' and 'Gu Du' have became part of my life that I have got so used that I can get uneasy and claustraphobic over the evening, weekend crowds in shopping centres and public areas.
I probably did not ever spend a meaningful Vday before for the record. Infact, I barely spend any special days together with my other half in my previous relations. Boils down to the fact that I come and go off before anyone realised that I have came back to SG *laughs*
So even as the big 30 comes looming in about a year's time and everyone around me, including my best friend is tying the knot... (Sang gor lou chan... chong chi bei kuan = cantonese rhyme aimed to dig at bridegrooms, erm, not really good in translating this part though, bear with me *laughs again*)
Time flies and I would soon step back into my 'twilight zone' *plays tune as enhancement effect*
It might then be a long period before I can really get down to sit in front of a internet connection. Probably when you see my 'rare' posting, it is very probably that I have already finished my next contract. *smiles*
Quite heavy reading today... and there is much more coming in coming editions. Do not fret... I have not finished resting at home yet, OK!? Stay tuned.
Cheers
HJ
February 13, 2005
Pirate Press - Missing details
Here are some little bits and pieces I have left out in my previous entries
The orphanage I visited while in Thailand have a web address: http://www.geocities.com/baanunrak/
I was not the only Singapoean presence over there. A year ago when I chanced upon them, Singapore Chamber of Commerce have committed to build a school for them and now, the children are happily housed and making full use of the building :)
While the other party, Daisy Dwe have a email contact, she does not have a site online. It is quite sad to see suppression of the Karens and Mons tribes and they live in constant fear and suppression by both armies on both sides of the border. Their own countrymen want to persecute them; the Thai army do not want them in their land. If anyone is interested, you can contact her at the following email address :
Daisy Dwe daisydwe@hotmail.com
I shall be posting up the email correspondences that took place on the blog as well, so as to let you in on the happenings.
---
The MBK which I mentioned as the shopping centre with sales on-going is:
Mahboonkrong (Mah-Boon-Krong)
I apologise for the delay in details.
---
So much for this edition. Stay tuned for more.
HJ
The orphanage I visited while in Thailand have a web address: http://www.geocities.com/baanunrak/
I was not the only Singapoean presence over there. A year ago when I chanced upon them, Singapore Chamber of Commerce have committed to build a school for them and now, the children are happily housed and making full use of the building :)
While the other party, Daisy Dwe have a email contact, she does not have a site online. It is quite sad to see suppression of the Karens and Mons tribes and they live in constant fear and suppression by both armies on both sides of the border. Their own countrymen want to persecute them; the Thai army do not want them in their land. If anyone is interested, you can contact her at the following email address :
Daisy Dwe daisydwe@hotmail.com
I shall be posting up the email correspondences that took place on the blog as well, so as to let you in on the happenings.
---
The MBK which I mentioned as the shopping centre with sales on-going is:
Mahboonkrong (Mah-Boon-Krong)
I apologise for the delay in details.
---
So much for this edition. Stay tuned for more.
HJ
February 11, 2005
Pirate Press - Running all around edition
Another day, a full day to be exact in Bangkok.
Started my day charging out of my hotel (which charged 500 baht per night / 21 SGD. I moved onto another guest house, a single room with fan and attached shower (no hot water, no TV but darn clean ceramic floor) for only 290 BHT/ 13 SGD (Call me ngeow... but this is what backpacking alone on a shoe-string budget is about. $$$ leh!)
Actually should have gone through the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Khao but due to my dressing yesterday, I put off the trip till today. Completed Wat Pho yesterday and today's trip took up almost the whole morning. After which I hopped back to Chinatown for a second round of snapshots. Till this evening, I was a little worried if I were to finish my remaining space on my card (I am using digital by the way... thus I have a fair share of my shooting these past few days.
Afternoon came and I rushed back to my accomodation, to change and thereafter meet up with a local friend, courtesy of my friend back home who got him to show me around.
We went down to MBK (I cant remember the full name of the shopping place but I shall get back to you all) and the first thing that greeting us was 'SALE!'
We have a fair share of
- up to 80% off
- 50% off storewide
and many other displays that could trigger a dormant sales shopping fan to go haywire. Basically the whole complex seemed to be on sale literally. My friend and I were staring down at a crowd, engulfing a 'Espirit' sale that was going on. I could not keep myself from bursting out laughing. It seemed like they were being derived from hunger of sorts for sometime, it seemed *chuckles*
After a quick dinner, we hopped down (at my request) to see the famous or rather, sleazy Patpong area.
In case for the uninformed reading my blog, it is the 'RED' light area (basically, there are a LOT of RED light areas in BKK, Patpong happened to be packed with ah-go-go women and guys doing some pole-hugging gestures)
I was thankful that my local friend is around, else I would not have ventured through the gay scene (Sight-Seeing ok!?!) Of course, I also did glanced at the char-bo ah-go-go bars, but basically I was only curious (Guy mah... definitely would be curious to see what the real scene looks like.)
Patpong area:
- have a street (yea... basically running from end to end) catered to the Japanese cliente *reasons being obvious*
- for the people with alternate preferences, there is a street over here as well.
- for the angmo, they would not be too much to miss.
- Chinese customers? The so-called 'cha2 shi4 - tea house' are the fronts for such sleazy business.
I ordered lunch while at Chinatown and very innocusly, I saw a sign, (air con tea house) and very 'bodoh' me went up without a clue to what happen.
Until I reached the top floor *It was strange that I could not find the chairs and tables at the 2nd floor, so I went up higher* that I indicated one person to a granny (I.E just before I reached the top flight of the steps)
To my horror (yea, I was REALLY freaked out) when I saw a number of gals sitting plainly in sight. Wahhha... as though lightning struck me, I REALISED I walked into a you-know-where. I turned round and fled. *still very embarrased now... how the heck and why I didnt realise what was happening in the first place!?*
I even offered to help an old grandfather *complete with a walking stick* climbing up the flights of steps *pengz* Thereafter then I realised (over lunch) that he is a customer!
To sum it up, it is a bit sad that the gals have to resort to such a way of making a living. Well, technically if we are on a moral platform, this topic will never be concluded. On the other way, why get into such technicalities in the first place? There are a lot of issues we as humans have to agreed that we will disagree. So case closed.
Anyway, BKK is indeed a place to be if you are searching for things to put up back home. That is to say, if you are into handicrafts and paintings etc etc... there are a lot of cheap bargains (here I goes birdy again... *cheap cheap, cheap cheap*)
A wrapped up:
For a single and well to do traveller, you can have plenty of choices around. If you choose to come for the culture or other reasons, there are a lot to be done over here in Thailand. She have the beaches and countryside views, plus good guide books to plough you through your trip here.
So much for this trip to Thailand and it shall not be the last. I am running out of time here at the cybercafe*the machine uses a countdown timer and I have prop coins in to keep the meter running*
Stay tune for more. I shall be up and away next week to HK-Macau. Till the next entry. Tata
HJ
Started my day charging out of my hotel (which charged 500 baht per night / 21 SGD. I moved onto another guest house, a single room with fan and attached shower (no hot water, no TV but darn clean ceramic floor) for only 290 BHT/ 13 SGD (Call me ngeow... but this is what backpacking alone on a shoe-string budget is about. $$$ leh!)
Actually should have gone through the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Khao but due to my dressing yesterday, I put off the trip till today. Completed Wat Pho yesterday and today's trip took up almost the whole morning. After which I hopped back to Chinatown for a second round of snapshots. Till this evening, I was a little worried if I were to finish my remaining space on my card (I am using digital by the way... thus I have a fair share of my shooting these past few days.
Afternoon came and I rushed back to my accomodation, to change and thereafter meet up with a local friend, courtesy of my friend back home who got him to show me around.
We went down to MBK (I cant remember the full name of the shopping place but I shall get back to you all) and the first thing that greeting us was 'SALE!'
We have a fair share of
- up to 80% off
- 50% off storewide
and many other displays that could trigger a dormant sales shopping fan to go haywire. Basically the whole complex seemed to be on sale literally. My friend and I were staring down at a crowd, engulfing a 'Espirit' sale that was going on. I could not keep myself from bursting out laughing. It seemed like they were being derived from hunger of sorts for sometime, it seemed *chuckles*
After a quick dinner, we hopped down (at my request) to see the famous or rather, sleazy Patpong area.
In case for the uninformed reading my blog, it is the 'RED' light area (basically, there are a LOT of RED light areas in BKK, Patpong happened to be packed with ah-go-go women and guys doing some pole-hugging gestures)
I was thankful that my local friend is around, else I would not have ventured through the gay scene (Sight-Seeing ok!?!) Of course, I also did glanced at the char-bo ah-go-go bars, but basically I was only curious (Guy mah... definitely would be curious to see what the real scene looks like.)
Patpong area:
- have a street (yea... basically running from end to end) catered to the Japanese cliente *reasons being obvious*
- for the people with alternate preferences, there is a street over here as well.
- for the angmo, they would not be too much to miss.
- Chinese customers? The so-called 'cha2 shi4 - tea house' are the fronts for such sleazy business.
I ordered lunch while at Chinatown and very innocusly, I saw a sign, (air con tea house) and very 'bodoh' me went up without a clue to what happen.
Until I reached the top floor *It was strange that I could not find the chairs and tables at the 2nd floor, so I went up higher* that I indicated one person to a granny (I.E just before I reached the top flight of the steps)
To my horror (yea, I was REALLY freaked out) when I saw a number of gals sitting plainly in sight. Wahhha... as though lightning struck me, I REALISED I walked into a you-know-where. I turned round and fled. *still very embarrased now... how the heck and why I didnt realise what was happening in the first place!?*
I even offered to help an old grandfather *complete with a walking stick* climbing up the flights of steps *pengz* Thereafter then I realised (over lunch) that he is a customer!
To sum it up, it is a bit sad that the gals have to resort to such a way of making a living. Well, technically if we are on a moral platform, this topic will never be concluded. On the other way, why get into such technicalities in the first place? There are a lot of issues we as humans have to agreed that we will disagree. So case closed.
Anyway, BKK is indeed a place to be if you are searching for things to put up back home. That is to say, if you are into handicrafts and paintings etc etc... there are a lot of cheap bargains (here I goes birdy again... *cheap cheap, cheap cheap*)
A wrapped up:
For a single and well to do traveller, you can have plenty of choices around. If you choose to come for the culture or other reasons, there are a lot to be done over here in Thailand. She have the beaches and countryside views, plus good guide books to plough you through your trip here.
So much for this trip to Thailand and it shall not be the last. I am running out of time here at the cybercafe*the machine uses a countdown timer and I have prop coins in to keep the meter running*
Stay tune for more. I shall be up and away next week to HK-Macau. Till the next entry. Tata
HJ
February 10, 2005
Pirate Press - Confessions of a massage addict
Ever since I landed in Thailand, I seem to have or maybe it is the other way round *chuckles* the massage shops seem to attract me.
*ahem* Before your mind drifts any further, I am talking about the clean ones OK! *kokz those with the naughty thoughts*
From previous trips and inclusive this one from Kanchanaburi, I seem to enjoy being 'tortured' (at certain extent, it does hurt when the massager exerts too much strength and I have to scream 'May Dai! May Dai') But somehow, the sleep that comes after is terrific. No need for whatsoever 'extras' I can sleep like a baby until daylight.
Comparing prices with other countries where I have gone through such massages, Thailand is the place to be. After all, after a long day of walking around/ cramped into a mini-van/ sitting on your bum for hours that seemed like days, the rub-down is called for.
Prices can range between 190 baht (8 SGD) to 330 baht (14 SGD) and it is probably the most cheapest you can get on earth... ermm... Apart for when your other partner rubs you down for free of course hehehe *grins*
There again, there is another school of massage not suitable to be discussed here. I will spare the ladies without having their imagination going wild. It is said that 'ignorance is bliss' (well, probably you all know, I know.... heart shine lah) *acts blurs*
Thus forth... a summary:
Don't go for pretty gals... especially for guys out there. They simply cannot make it or simply bo chap. The more prettier they are, the less interested they are in giving the rub-down.
The best ones are aunties. They will simply
- turn you off *hahaha*
- have more experience in massaging
- less interested in doing whatever not related to massaging
- guranteed service for the money.
So much for this edition. Lap Koon.
HJ
*ahem* Before your mind drifts any further, I am talking about the clean ones OK! *kokz those with the naughty thoughts*
From previous trips and inclusive this one from Kanchanaburi, I seem to enjoy being 'tortured' (at certain extent, it does hurt when the massager exerts too much strength and I have to scream 'May Dai! May Dai') But somehow, the sleep that comes after is terrific. No need for whatsoever 'extras' I can sleep like a baby until daylight.
Comparing prices with other countries where I have gone through such massages, Thailand is the place to be. After all, after a long day of walking around/ cramped into a mini-van/ sitting on your bum for hours that seemed like days, the rub-down is called for.
Prices can range between 190 baht (8 SGD) to 330 baht (14 SGD) and it is probably the most cheapest you can get on earth... ermm... Apart for when your other partner rubs you down for free of course hehehe *grins*
There again, there is another school of massage not suitable to be discussed here. I will spare the ladies without having their imagination going wild. It is said that 'ignorance is bliss' (well, probably you all know, I know.... heart shine lah) *acts blurs*
Thus forth... a summary:
Don't go for pretty gals... especially for guys out there. They simply cannot make it or simply bo chap. The more prettier they are, the less interested they are in giving the rub-down.
The best ones are aunties. They will simply
- turn you off *hahaha*
- have more experience in massaging
- less interested in doing whatever not related to massaging
- guranteed service for the money.
So much for this edition. Lap Koon.
HJ
Pirate Press - Red all over edition
Came into Bangkok dusty and tired all over *cough cough phui*
Excuse my manners... but the three-hour long 25 baht train ride from Kanchanaburi did offer more than sights... yes yes. I better get my lungs expunged when I get home hahahaha :D
Initially planned for a Chao Phraya boat ride down to Chinatown or " Yaowawat" area but somehow or the other when I told the cab driver I wanted a ride to the Railway Station pier, he brought me over into town.
Thankfully I realised he was already on the other side of the river (Hey... I am no 'Holland' King okie?
Therefore, like the chinese saying goes... 'Jiang cuo jiu cuo' I told him to go to Chinatown. So I got plonked into Chinatown. As the saying goes... living where the action is hehehe :)
After a good shower... (seemed like ages to get washed up... or to say.. wash down all the dust kicked up along the way hahaha) I went around for dinner and walkabout. Somehow my "Phad Thai Chey (pronounced as 'J' became mixed with small prawns; I ended up having to do 'filtering' before I eat *chamz* For dessert, I had tang yuan to wash down.. though my taste buds were craving for the big and delicious DURIANS!!!! :)~~
The night market could not be compared to what we have in SG but then, why compare?!?! *smirks*
The crackers went off at the stroke of midnight, but I was already half asleep and plonked down after finished reading the english papers. *snores*
---
This morning I barely wanted to climb out of bed... the bed was soooo irresistable hahaha... but the call of breakfast (thrown in with the room) was too much to resist. I washed up and 'makaned'
From 0900 onwards, after I checked out, lugging my haversack, it took me nearly 2 and 1/2 hrs from one end of Chinatown to reach where Grand China Princess hotel was. (This latter hotel costs 2000 baht per night *cough cough cough* as compared to my 720 baht (still a ripthroat price)
And frankly speaking, this is the first time in my life I have seen a RED orgy all over. Literally everyone on the streets from vendors to whatever people are wearing red. Anyway, it is good to be here in Bangkok, at least it is an experience to see how they celebrate CNY. And for those interested, make sure you have a BKK trip lined up next year. At least come see it for yourself!
Presently holed up along Khao San road where the bulk of the 'farangs' - angmos are. Of course where the ang-mos are, the so-called 'Shi-Wu / Chap Gor' are apparently around. Previous years I would have groused and minced my words under my breath.. but then these are beyond my scope of control. Better keep myself in line rather hahaha.
Just a thing to add, it seemed that I have sort-of developed a natural instinct to spot where the naughty areas are, even though I do not go around with the intent of doing so.
I am starting to smell *yea... from the sweat* and I need to go wash up. Will be back again soon with further updates. Till then, this is Pirate. Goodbye *chey... macham real*
Cheers
HJ
Excuse my manners... but the three-hour long 25 baht train ride from Kanchanaburi did offer more than sights... yes yes. I better get my lungs expunged when I get home hahahaha :D
Initially planned for a Chao Phraya boat ride down to Chinatown or " Yaowawat" area but somehow or the other when I told the cab driver I wanted a ride to the Railway Station pier, he brought me over into town.
Thankfully I realised he was already on the other side of the river (Hey... I am no 'Holland' King okie?
Therefore, like the chinese saying goes... 'Jiang cuo jiu cuo' I told him to go to Chinatown. So I got plonked into Chinatown. As the saying goes... living where the action is hehehe :)
After a good shower... (seemed like ages to get washed up... or to say.. wash down all the dust kicked up along the way hahaha) I went around for dinner and walkabout. Somehow my "Phad Thai Chey (pronounced as 'J' became mixed with small prawns; I ended up having to do 'filtering' before I eat *chamz* For dessert, I had tang yuan to wash down.. though my taste buds were craving for the big and delicious DURIANS!!!! :)~~
The night market could not be compared to what we have in SG but then, why compare?!?! *smirks*
The crackers went off at the stroke of midnight, but I was already half asleep and plonked down after finished reading the english papers. *snores*
---
This morning I barely wanted to climb out of bed... the bed was soooo irresistable hahaha... but the call of breakfast (thrown in with the room) was too much to resist. I washed up and 'makaned'
From 0900 onwards, after I checked out, lugging my haversack, it took me nearly 2 and 1/2 hrs from one end of Chinatown to reach where Grand China Princess hotel was. (This latter hotel costs 2000 baht per night *cough cough cough* as compared to my 720 baht (still a ripthroat price)
And frankly speaking, this is the first time in my life I have seen a RED orgy all over. Literally everyone on the streets from vendors to whatever people are wearing red. Anyway, it is good to be here in Bangkok, at least it is an experience to see how they celebrate CNY. And for those interested, make sure you have a BKK trip lined up next year. At least come see it for yourself!
Presently holed up along Khao San road where the bulk of the 'farangs' - angmos are. Of course where the ang-mos are, the so-called 'Shi-Wu / Chap Gor' are apparently around. Previous years I would have groused and minced my words under my breath.. but then these are beyond my scope of control. Better keep myself in line rather hahaha.
Just a thing to add, it seemed that I have sort-of developed a natural instinct to spot where the naughty areas are, even though I do not go around with the intent of doing so.
I am starting to smell *yea... from the sweat* and I need to go wash up. Will be back again soon with further updates. Till then, this is Pirate. Goodbye *chey... macham real*
Cheers
HJ
February 09, 2005
Priate Press: Pre-Gong Hei Fatt Choi edition
After a good massage yesterday (2 hr 190 Baht) my aching bum disappeared and I went into a deep snooze until this morning when the firecrackers woke me up.
Did a little packing up and headed out for my breakfast... nothing much was on the menu for me but I did managed to have some 'you za gui' (thai style... very small piece aka those fried butterfly we have back home) and plonked myself in front of a PC early in the morning..
Teresa Deng's Tian Mi Mi blaring over the airwaves was probably the next most Chinese entity that I came across. Of course not dismissing the 2nd and 3rd generation of Thai Chinese around me in this town 3 hrs from Bangkok. The festive celebration is definitely less subtle as compared to what we have in SG. But the locals here too did the usual prayers with fruits, incense, coconuts and some instances, chicken (Amituofo....)
Some banners, chun lians and festive decorations have been put up in the city district but still that same statement, very subtle. :)
Will be moving off to Bangkok shortly and I better get back to collect my laundry and get my bum down to the train station. Yeps... I am taking the train down instead of the bus. There is a direct bus that goes off often from the bus terminal but since I am here already, might as well take it as an experience to get onto their trains :)
Anyway, I should be logging in once I hit Bangkok... And the possibilities that I would check into a cybercafe is very high hahaha... given my nature *smirks*
Thus... have a good reunion dinner tonight to all of you back there.
Kii Liao
HJ
Did a little packing up and headed out for my breakfast... nothing much was on the menu for me but I did managed to have some 'you za gui' (thai style... very small piece aka those fried butterfly we have back home) and plonked myself in front of a PC early in the morning..
Teresa Deng's Tian Mi Mi blaring over the airwaves was probably the next most Chinese entity that I came across. Of course not dismissing the 2nd and 3rd generation of Thai Chinese around me in this town 3 hrs from Bangkok. The festive celebration is definitely less subtle as compared to what we have in SG. But the locals here too did the usual prayers with fruits, incense, coconuts and some instances, chicken (Amituofo....)
Some banners, chun lians and festive decorations have been put up in the city district but still that same statement, very subtle. :)
Will be moving off to Bangkok shortly and I better get back to collect my laundry and get my bum down to the train station. Yeps... I am taking the train down instead of the bus. There is a direct bus that goes off often from the bus terminal but since I am here already, might as well take it as an experience to get onto their trains :)
Anyway, I should be logging in once I hit Bangkok... And the possibilities that I would check into a cybercafe is very high hahaha... given my nature *smirks*
Thus... have a good reunion dinner tonight to all of you back there.
Kii Liao
HJ
February 08, 2005
Sawadeekup... from Kanchanaburi
After a restless night at home, I awoke to an early morning on Sunday and a early taxi to the airport. After the customary check-ins are done for, I sat back into my seat and dozed off until the stewardess woke up with the hot-towel.
2.5 hr later, Bangkok airport doors opened up and I stepped into the waiting cab, to the South Bus terminal where I sat again for another 3 hrs to Kanchanaburi.
I decided to hole up for the night and complete whatever I need to procure for today's (Monday) trip to Sangkhlaburi. Essentially, what I got were sweets and balloons for the orphanage over there and also some medical supplies for the Burmese refugees. I do not have the website address and please forgive me that I cannot show you where these people are.
My rusty Thai fail me on the first day and slowly today the words are coming back, although many of you might wonder how the heck I get along without talking to anyone, all around me blabbing off in Thai.
Perhaps the fact that I stay quiet most of the time when I am on duty onboard the ship. Therefore, even without understanding the language, I am more than contented to be left alone.
At least for today, I could still rattle enough Thai to get my vegetarian dinner correct (Screwed up yesterday with the omelette... was almost finished through with the dish when I found the dish laced with meat... possibly crab meat.Amituofo....)
Changed from the guest house (270 Bht/ 12SGD) to a better one just across the road (380 bht/ 16SGD) in exchange for some peace. Had ants running around when I slept and also caused some deaths while in my dozing hours... Amituofo.) Anyway, this is far much better, complete with an air-con, hot water and Tee-bee. hey mia ngeow lor, considered a cheap bargain. Where to find in SG???!
A sore bum and more sore bum was what remains now. I have my fair share of dozing off in the non-air con bus and on the way back in a so-called 'air-con minivan' where the aircon is feebly negligible. Now aching all over and would be crying for a good rubdown before I hit the bed.
---
Many would have wondered, a guy travelling alone would mean hanky-panky business (Bo Zhen Hu)... The statement would have rung true years ago when my raging hormones and testerones are out of control. (Mai Tu Liao!!!)
Ladies back home would not be that daring to allow their other half to fly off on such so-called business trips to hot-spot areas such as Thailand and China. But for better or worse, some chose to have a blind eye to it... only to regret it later in life.
I have my darker side of history (What is there to hide unlike some fellas back there putting up a bold face even after sneaking out to have their fair share of 'fish') and spare all ladies out there the intricate details. Not worth to mention anyway, it is surprising why I did those nonsense years ago. *kokz head.... ponders*
But given the change in outlook in recent times, even though how gorgeous the girls looked (can droolzz one leh....) somehow or rather, the mindset have changed for the better. I must admit, when having dinner yesterday, there was a gal with her family whose looks far exceed those working in hanky-panky shops. Further more, the decent family gals which I have came across till now, are much better in terms of charisma, even without makeup.
Perhaps it is the upbringing and humble nature of the Thais that could have resulted in more beauties emerging from Thailand than what we have in SG. Look around all of you and you see grumpy, frumpy married women rushing around to work and back home. No pun intended. But I could say the turn-off for most SG men and most important push factor for them to 'run lion' was that their once beautiful woman whom they got married to, became harried, yellow-faced aunties.
So much for today... I expect a salvo of eggs and rebukes coming after this.
Kii2 Liao3 (Finished... in Thai) More to come when I get online
HJ
2.5 hr later, Bangkok airport doors opened up and I stepped into the waiting cab, to the South Bus terminal where I sat again for another 3 hrs to Kanchanaburi.
I decided to hole up for the night and complete whatever I need to procure for today's (Monday) trip to Sangkhlaburi. Essentially, what I got were sweets and balloons for the orphanage over there and also some medical supplies for the Burmese refugees. I do not have the website address and please forgive me that I cannot show you where these people are.
My rusty Thai fail me on the first day and slowly today the words are coming back, although many of you might wonder how the heck I get along without talking to anyone, all around me blabbing off in Thai.
Perhaps the fact that I stay quiet most of the time when I am on duty onboard the ship. Therefore, even without understanding the language, I am more than contented to be left alone.
At least for today, I could still rattle enough Thai to get my vegetarian dinner correct (Screwed up yesterday with the omelette... was almost finished through with the dish when I found the dish laced with meat... possibly crab meat.Amituofo....)
Changed from the guest house (270 Bht/ 12SGD) to a better one just across the road (380 bht/ 16SGD) in exchange for some peace. Had ants running around when I slept and also caused some deaths while in my dozing hours... Amituofo.) Anyway, this is far much better, complete with an air-con, hot water and Tee-bee. hey mia ngeow lor, considered a cheap bargain. Where to find in SG???!
A sore bum and more sore bum was what remains now. I have my fair share of dozing off in the non-air con bus and on the way back in a so-called 'air-con minivan' where the aircon is feebly negligible. Now aching all over and would be crying for a good rubdown before I hit the bed.
---
Many would have wondered, a guy travelling alone would mean hanky-panky business (Bo Zhen Hu)... The statement would have rung true years ago when my raging hormones and testerones are out of control. (Mai Tu Liao!!!)
Ladies back home would not be that daring to allow their other half to fly off on such so-called business trips to hot-spot areas such as Thailand and China. But for better or worse, some chose to have a blind eye to it... only to regret it later in life.
I have my darker side of history (What is there to hide unlike some fellas back there putting up a bold face even after sneaking out to have their fair share of 'fish') and spare all ladies out there the intricate details. Not worth to mention anyway, it is surprising why I did those nonsense years ago. *kokz head.... ponders*
But given the change in outlook in recent times, even though how gorgeous the girls looked (can droolzz one leh....) somehow or rather, the mindset have changed for the better. I must admit, when having dinner yesterday, there was a gal with her family whose looks far exceed those working in hanky-panky shops. Further more, the decent family gals which I have came across till now, are much better in terms of charisma, even without makeup.
Perhaps it is the upbringing and humble nature of the Thais that could have resulted in more beauties emerging from Thailand than what we have in SG. Look around all of you and you see grumpy, frumpy married women rushing around to work and back home. No pun intended. But I could say the turn-off for most SG men and most important push factor for them to 'run lion' was that their once beautiful woman whom they got married to, became harried, yellow-faced aunties.
So much for today... I expect a salvo of eggs and rebukes coming after this.
Kii2 Liao3 (Finished... in Thai) More to come when I get online
HJ
February 02, 2005
Low Bat? No problem
This took place when I was out meeting my friends for dinner.
Arriving at City Hall Bodyshop, I suddenly realised that my mobile's battery was going flat.
For most of my country-folk, they would have simply resorted to have the spare battery out.
I did not have the practice of carrying spares around (Partly I did but that practice is more relative to my work environment!
Anyway, for those mobile-obsessed countrymen of mine, they would have
1) freaked out - ARGHHHAHHHAAAA! SI LIAO! BO BAT-TE-LY LIAO! (Mama seah... I learn OrK-Kian Bery Bus hahahaa)
2) resort to begging from friends who carry spares.
3) any other ways to keep their dearest mobile 'alive'.
Well, the above mentioned are ONLY possibilties. I took it in stride.
Low Battery? Lagi best, no one to disturb me. Anyway, I have no one to disturb me also haha. I switched off my mobile!
---
Apologies to my Kor, who called me for some minor issue.
---
Look at this way, we have our ups and downs daily in our lives. More often than not, in the stressed filled society of ours (unlike my working environment), we have to bear our brunt of 'qi' every now and then.
We can be react in two ways. Take it in stride or blow up. Para-quoting from Covey's book: 7 Habits - there are conditions and environments beyond our control. We must learn to control the areas of concern - i.e ourselves.
Countless times have been said in Buddhist teachings - bottom line - control yourselves. So many unfortunate incidents - adultery, rape, robbery, theft etc etc - happpen in our environment daily; all because of our lack of control.
Many percieve that the 5 precepts as stifling rules imposed to curb our enjoyment. If one cared to look beyond, the precepts are actually the fundamental ways of life. I keep my say short here. Perhaps I shall talk about it more in another entry.
Arriving at City Hall Bodyshop, I suddenly realised that my mobile's battery was going flat.
For most of my country-folk, they would have simply resorted to have the spare battery out.
I did not have the practice of carrying spares around (Partly I did but that practice is more relative to my work environment!
Anyway, for those mobile-obsessed countrymen of mine, they would have
1) freaked out - ARGHHHAHHHAAAA! SI LIAO! BO BAT-TE-LY LIAO! (Mama seah... I learn OrK-Kian Bery Bus hahahaa)
2) resort to begging from friends who carry spares.
3) any other ways to keep their dearest mobile 'alive'.
Well, the above mentioned are ONLY possibilties. I took it in stride.
Low Battery? Lagi best, no one to disturb me. Anyway, I have no one to disturb me also haha. I switched off my mobile!
---
Apologies to my Kor, who called me for some minor issue.
---
Look at this way, we have our ups and downs daily in our lives. More often than not, in the stressed filled society of ours (unlike my working environment), we have to bear our brunt of 'qi' every now and then.
We can be react in two ways. Take it in stride or blow up. Para-quoting from Covey's book: 7 Habits - there are conditions and environments beyond our control. We must learn to control the areas of concern - i.e ourselves.
Countless times have been said in Buddhist teachings - bottom line - control yourselves. So many unfortunate incidents - adultery, rape, robbery, theft etc etc - happpen in our environment daily; all because of our lack of control.
Many percieve that the 5 precepts as stifling rules imposed to curb our enjoyment. If one cared to look beyond, the precepts are actually the fundamental ways of life. I keep my say short here. Perhaps I shall talk about it more in another entry.
February 01, 2005
Got place, sit lor!
This incident took place when I was on the NE bound train to Punggol.
A little girl, her mother pushing a stroller, walked in when the doors open.
The little girl, rushed and sat besides me.
The mother then followed and asked her daughter.
Mother (M) - "Why you sit down? We are going off next stop liao."
Girl (G)- "Got place, sit lor!"
---
Children, when left alone, are our best teachers.
Life is simple and simple questions demand simple answers.
---
This is the first of my blog. Stay tuned for this page for more.
Cheers
A little girl, her mother pushing a stroller, walked in when the doors open.
The little girl, rushed and sat besides me.
The mother then followed and asked her daughter.
Mother (M) - "Why you sit down? We are going off next stop liao."
Girl (G)- "Got place, sit lor!"
---
Children, when left alone, are our best teachers.
Life is simple and simple questions demand simple answers.
---
This is the first of my blog. Stay tuned for this page for more.
Cheers
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