Haven't done an album review for a while, but Nem's Moratorium is completely justified in having it's own post. I didn't realise this was out until I was searching for lyrics and stumbled upon a site announcing its release.
Anyhow, the album - Nem's Garden Moratorium. I won't say I was a huuuuge Nem fan prior to listening to this album, but I do like quite a lot of the songs he wrote and composed (Scissorhands, Somatic Delusion, Summer Rain etc). So let's start with an intro to the tracks:
1. カノン
2. Ophelia
3. 嗚呼、素晴らしきニャン生
4. virjin suicides
5. ネバーランド
6. Somatic Delusion
7. シザーハンズ
8. 名前をください
9. サマーレイン
10. 宵闇のアウグスティン
11. スターマイン
12. 予感
13. さようなら
14. 楽園
15. あやつりピエロと君の歌
There are quite a number of songs which I've never heard before on this album, and I find myself liking each composition, which is relatively rare for me. Utaite featured in this album: Amu, Miichan, Dasoku, Ren, Faneru, Gero, Clear, Nero, Asamaru and Jack. Nata chips in for chorus and voicing for some of the songs. I've gotta say this album's got quite the lineup, given that each of these utaite are powerhouse names in their own rights, with large fanbases. I was really looking forward to listening to the album when I first saw the lineup.
カノン by amu
This is the first time I've listened to Kanon, and it's a very cute song. The composition was upbeat, with a bright melody, and with Amu at the vocals, I think the cute factor was amplified by 100 times. The high parts are just adorable with Amu's range, and the verses sound just as good, playing on Amu's slightly nasal tone with the lower end of his range. It didn't particularly stick with me, though, so this is one of those songs I'll only want to hear on occasion.
Ophelia by みーちゃん
I first heard Ophelia by Dasoku in 4x4, so I had high hopes for this song given that Miichan's voice profile belongs in a similar category (note: eroi) XD I would say it was pretty enjoyable since Miichan's voice is a lot more versatile than Dasoku's. I say this objectively coz I'm usually biased to Dasoku lol. Miichan's vocals were stronger here, giving the song a less erotic, but more resounding feeling. A refreshing change from Dasoku's breathy eroi version.
嗚呼、素晴らしきニャン生 by amu & みーちゃん
I heard the original Vocaloid for this, and listening to Michamu singing this is like...perfect! I love how the album fully used the "married vocal couples" for all the duets, and I think the vocal profiles of Amu and Miichan for this song are well-suited. While the original song was just full of cute, Miichan gave Len's parts a lot more maturity and depth, while Amu made Gumi's parts sound really sweet, all the while keeping the song's original cuteness intact. But since I haven't heard any other covers for this song yet, I can't quite compare.
virgin suicides by 蛇足
First listen was clear and Miichan's ver in 4x4. Like in his version of Ophelia, Dasoku somehow managed to make this song sound more soulful than I had initially expected this to be. While I really like the duet between Clear and Miichan and the combination of their vocal profiles, listening to Dasoku solo on this is pretty good too. Dasoku emphasized more on the slightly bittersweet feelings in this song, choosing to match his vocals to the rock beats and lyrics, instead of pulling out his sexy voice, which I think is suitable. I also noticed the extra lyrics at the end, which wasn't present in the Clear x Miichan version.
ネバーランド by 【蓮】
I like Ren's voice in general, and I think he's pretty versatile, but I can't help but think that this song doesn't highlight his voice. But I could be wrong since this is my first time listening to this song. Mhn, how should I put this...I guess I imagined that Miichan would be better suited to this song rather than Ren. It's good, but I still think his voice is better highlight in other songs.
Somatic Delusion by 蛇足 & 【蓮】
One of my favourites from Nem. This song had a high bar in terms of expectations, since I first heard Michamu sing this, and I loved that version SO MUCH! It was good, in a different way. I loved Michamu's version purely due to the combination of their vocals. The harmony was much, much better between them, since Amu and Miichan's vocals are essentially very different, so they accentuate each other's vocals when they harmonize. Between Dasoku and Ren, I couldn't really hear the harmony, whether it was due to the recording, or the fact that their vocal profiles were somewhat similar to begin with. But I would say I got a very different interpretation of this song. With Michamu, the song sounded somewhat sweet, as though a pet sang this to its master, clamoring for attention. But 1122 gave this song a much more adult, mature tone. I guess I would say it's very...otona (大人). Personally, when you listen to the lyrics when Dasoku and Ren sing, you definitely don't get the pet image. No, you get a completely different image in your head, if you get what I mean. So yes, different interpretation, but just as good.
シザーハンズ by ふぁねる
Another one of my favourites, and I've heard so many versions that I don't think it's fair to compare Faneru's to all the countless covers out there. Faneru's range is typically high, and his singing style somehow makes me think of his voice as adorable. Now, this song is meant to be sad and kind of lonely, but listening to Faneru's vocals made me think this song was cute. This is especially apparent at the higher parts. I guess the way to say this would be that it sounds kind of...naughty? I think it's pretty good in its own right.
名前をください by Gero
First off, this is another new song to me. The lyrics are very sad. The melody and composition are very sad. Add Gero's heartbreaking voice to that. You get a song which gives you a lot of ow...especially during the chorus. Gero has one of the most versatile vocal profiles I've heard among the utaite (imho of course) and when he sings ballads, it has a very clear, heartbreaking quality. With this song, it sounded as though he injected a very personal touch and really meant the lyrics of this song, which is really...a lot of ow. One of the better songs yet.
サマーレイン by ふぁねる & Gero
One of my favourites, first heard on PointFive's Enhance by Asamack, and then heard again in osanajimi's First Contact. Each version had a slightly different profile, but I'll use Asamack's version as a point of comparison. NeGero had always come off as a baka-baka pair to me ever since I saw that NeGero Magnet and Hitobashira Alice. But I think it's a very refreshing change to hear them sing a ballad together. Asamack gave the song a very warm feeling, with Asamaru and Jack's vocals being more well-blended. In this version, Gero's vocals grounded the song a lot, so at some parts, it does sound like Faneru's vocals got overpowered. But this version sounded more setsunai (切ない). There is a sense of melancholy underlying the song, giving it a slightly different interpretation compared to Asamack's version.
宵闇のアウグスティン by clear
I think Clear's vocals have come a long way from his trademark clear, transparent voice. Now it has a lot more depth, making this song quite dynamic. This was a new song to me, and listening to the lyrics, I imagined that if Clear has sung this with that resounding transparent voice, it would sound beautiful, but flat. For a song like this, I imagine a little attitude would be highlight the emotional nature in the song and make it easier to connect with, and Clear delivered it well.
スターマイン by nero
From this point onwards, they're all new songs to me. Hmm...in Nero's case, I haven't heard that many songs from him, so I can't quite say much about that. If you asked me whether the vocals suited the song, then I would say yes. Nero's vocal profile is similar to Clear's, but a lot fuller, and he sounds a lot more mature as well. The song itself has a beautiful composition, and I think Nero did a good job, but it lacks the kind of satisfaction I get from listening to the other songs. I couldn't really connect to the song, and I found the fireworks in the middle distracting.
予感 by clear & nero
Haha, I couldn't help but think that this song was made for osanajimi. This song fully exploited the beautiful voice profiles from both Clear and Nero. Their voices compliment each other well, and the harmony is subtle but sublime. Clear's vocals came through more readily, but Nero's vocals added substance to the song, since if Clear sang this solo, I get the feeling that the whole song might just float off. The chorus is especially good, where their voices blend together. I would recommend this to osanajimi fans.
さようなら by あさまる
Asamaru's voice is rather unique in that it doesn't sound very melodic, nor does it have that breathy, sexy vibe, but it gives me the impression that this is exactly how I would imagine a Japanese singer's voice to sound like. I can't quite put it in words...but if I were to describe as a flavour, it would salty-sweet? With a voice like that, the song sounded more mature, more soulful. And it made the song sound very beautiful and full-bodied as well.
楽園 by じゃっく
Jack has a slightly shounen-going-on-to-seinen voice, with a very distinct resonant sound. When I listened to this, I get a very heartwarming feeling of being at peace, and I would say it is a highlight of this song. The bridge brings out Jack's clear and stable vocals, and as he sings the final chorus, you get a slightly sweet feeling, very much like reminiscence.
あやつりピエロと君の歌 by あさまる & じゃっく
It's a very interesting song, and having it sung by Asamack highlights the sweetness, accompanied by a touch of playful reminiscence and a dash of bittersweet nostalgia. Their voices are well-matched to the song, and their vocal profiles are different enough that it sounds like the two of them are singing a story to you. I really like this combination.
And well, that's what I think about this album. I would really recommend this album, since it has a good selection of songs, with a mix of upbeat, fastpaced songs and beautiful ballads. Nem is a really talented composer imho, and I hope that we'll see a continuation to the works he's producing.
Friday, July 29, 2011
Monday, July 11, 2011
3 Anggerik of MGS '03
While I was taking in the laundry today, I saw that one of my homewear t-shirts had torn. It was my old Form 3 class tee.The blue hem at the bottom was coming off. As I held it up to inspect it, I looked at the prints on my t-shirt and realised that I had never properly looked at it for a long, long time.
My old class tee was black...with blue hems...and right across the chest, fashioned in the shape of a pulse on an EEG...was the name 3 Ang, MGS '03. Ah...so I've had this tee for 8 years now...so I thought. Then a sudden wave of nostalgia seeped in, as I saw, truly, for once, the kind of condition the tee was in.
8 years.....8 years from the time I owned this tee, and from then on, I've used it first as a class tee...then as an extra tee for PE...then something to wear out and finally...when I came to KL to study 5 years ago, I brought it with me... I meant for it to be homewear. The older, slightly more cynical part of me was thinking, "Ah, look, back then, they made t-shirts so well, they last you so long!" But as I turned to the back of my tee...I saw the design made by one of my classmates, and looked at the many names printed upon the back of the tee.
I realised the design has faded over the many years of wear...well, no surprise there...think about all the water and detergent and spin cycles it's been through. But what struck me most was that some of the names have faded...some more than others. I sat there for a few minutes just trying to read every single one of the names...Some names were printed more clearly (ironically, my names was as clear as ever, possibly due to its position near to the top middle, where I don't rest my back upon the wall) & some names had faded so much that I could barely make out the names.
Looking at the tee, I tried to match name to face...and the images came to my mind one by one, some clear and vivid...others murky and uncertain. My F3 year has been pretty memorable...and not one moment was spent without these classmates. I may not always think of them...and I may not always think of all of them equally, but these are the moments where I'm transported back to a time where the biggest problem we had to face was PMR. Things were plainer then, but they were simpler too. I wonder what they're all doing now? Are they working hard to achieve their goals? What are they working as now? Perhaps some of them might have even started a family...
Like that t-shirt, I may not remember all the details about them...like the t-shirt, the relationship between some of us may be more distant and faded than before. But like that t-shirt, we'll always have shared something in common, and the bonds we carry on our backs watch over us, as our hearts continue to beat as one pulse, united in our memories.
Thursday, July 7, 2011
Workplace stuff
This is perhaps one of the longest times I've been away from here...I can't decide whether that is a good thing or not. Time has proven to be the elusive master I had always known it to be, and work a straight-faced affair.
But it is without contempt that I say these things, because I've had a really good time at work. Sure, sometimes there are obstacles, and sure, sometimes things get more troublesome than they were meant to be, but overall, I've been enjoying what I'm doing. I credit this mainly to my colleagues.
'Tis an interesting bunch I hang out with, and I'd sooner call them friends than colleagues. I've taken up a lot of new hobbies because of these friends...things I never thought I would be interested in or start doing...but again, never say never, eh? Most of them are our seniors, ready to move on to the next stage of their lives and careers, and it saddens me somewhat that I only had a year to know them.
I've learnt a lot from them, whether it was through intentional teaching or whether it was by observation. Work aside, I think I'm glad to have met them...especially those two, who have shown me, in conversation, in action, in views, that to live is to experience, and that I should never have to be afraid of myself, that I should never have to let myself take the second place in my life. It's strange to see how my life has been affected by them in such a short time.
I'm a little sad that they'll be leaving soon...but happy for them that they're going to be off reaching their goals.
But it is without contempt that I say these things, because I've had a really good time at work. Sure, sometimes there are obstacles, and sure, sometimes things get more troublesome than they were meant to be, but overall, I've been enjoying what I'm doing. I credit this mainly to my colleagues.
'Tis an interesting bunch I hang out with, and I'd sooner call them friends than colleagues. I've taken up a lot of new hobbies because of these friends...things I never thought I would be interested in or start doing...but again, never say never, eh? Most of them are our seniors, ready to move on to the next stage of their lives and careers, and it saddens me somewhat that I only had a year to know them.
I've learnt a lot from them, whether it was through intentional teaching or whether it was by observation. Work aside, I think I'm glad to have met them...especially those two, who have shown me, in conversation, in action, in views, that to live is to experience, and that I should never have to be afraid of myself, that I should never have to let myself take the second place in my life. It's strange to see how my life has been affected by them in such a short time.
I'm a little sad that they'll be leaving soon...but happy for them that they're going to be off reaching their goals.
Sunday, March 21, 2010
Life post XD
Whee! Long time no update! What to do? Life has been so busy, just keeping up with schoolwork is taking most of my energy. So yeah, been crazy with college, but in the storm of assignments and studies and thesis, some good things have happened as well. Overall, still in one piece, physically and mentally. After the 'intensive' training we had from IO last sem, I think this sem is considerably easier. Hello, I had time to think I'm bored, so it's a definite improvement.
I've been given a job offer at by the college, which honestly, is more appealing to me than a bank job. But of course, salary is not comparable, living costs have to bear myself etc...but it's much more relevant to me than a job in a corporate, financial sector. And it gives me more opportunities to prepare for post-grad. So now, in the process of making one of those major life decisions!
Interest-wise, I've gotten addicted to Nico Nico Douga (because of a certain "NeonStall") which is like...the Youtube of Japan. Mainly, I got into a bunch on singers who sing mainly, but not only, Vocaloid songs, and upload them. I really applaud them, because their singing sound like pros, the mixers and the composers are somewhat geniur-level too. It amazes me...them Japanses ppl. Once again, you see my fascination with all things Japanese.
Speaking of which, a friend of mine got the opportunity to study in Japan and will be leaving soon. I had the chance to meet up with her and hung out together with a bunch of friends, and we were chattering away in Jap until one of our friends got annoyed coz she couldn't understand a word. But I'm glad for her. If I have the chance, I would wanna go to Japan too. Either to work...or maybe study. But it's a dream in the future.
Guess right now, my life isn't so bad. It's pretty enjoyable, and despite the crazy assignments I have, I'm trying to apprecate everything about undergrad life, because it's gonna end soon...
I've been given a job offer at by the college, which honestly, is more appealing to me than a bank job. But of course, salary is not comparable, living costs have to bear myself etc...but it's much more relevant to me than a job in a corporate, financial sector. And it gives me more opportunities to prepare for post-grad. So now, in the process of making one of those major life decisions!
Interest-wise, I've gotten addicted to Nico Nico Douga (because of a certain "NeonStall") which is like...the Youtube of Japan. Mainly, I got into a bunch on singers who sing mainly, but not only, Vocaloid songs, and upload them. I really applaud them, because their singing sound like pros, the mixers and the composers are somewhat geniur-level too. It amazes me...them Japanses ppl. Once again, you see my fascination with all things Japanese.
Speaking of which, a friend of mine got the opportunity to study in Japan and will be leaving soon. I had the chance to meet up with her and hung out together with a bunch of friends, and we were chattering away in Jap until one of our friends got annoyed coz she couldn't understand a word. But I'm glad for her. If I have the chance, I would wanna go to Japan too. Either to work...or maybe study. But it's a dream in the future.
Guess right now, my life isn't so bad. It's pretty enjoyable, and despite the crazy assignments I have, I'm trying to apprecate everything about undergrad life, because it's gonna end soon...
Saturday, February 6, 2010
Education system going down the dumps
I say this effing seriously.
The current education system is, I dare say, failing at a remarkable rate for a country which really has quite a lot of resources. Now, a new, hum...plan? policy? Never mind what they call it, the important thing is now they say they're coming out with something to 'kononnya' improve our education system.
I looked forward to it, really. I would love to see the education system and quality pick up. Then I saw the four imperatives' and I have to say, there are a fair few gaps in there. First of all, let's check out the imperatives, briefly, of course. Student success, hold schools accountable for student outcomes, or lack of, invest heavily in principals and heads, and develop top teachers.
Can you see the big hole here? What constitutes student success? Student outcomes? Does it mean more As? More graduates? The whole 'policy' hinges on these two terms, yet I can't find the definition in any articles so far. Depending on what they mean, it could make a miracle or mean a disaster.
Imagine that student success means producing more A-students (meaning purely academics). So now, under the new policy, it needs to be ensure that students become A-students. Schools who do not produce A-students will suffer the consequences. This may make the principal or head put more pressure (and blame) on the teachers and students for not performing, because they have been invested in heavily by the policy, and the decrepit performance will be on their heads (no pun intended). Then thte school may lose anything from resources and reputation, and it will become hard to attract and develop top teachers (Oh, and what do they mean by top teachers anyway?)
Now there's even curriculum for pre-schools! So now the nation is intent on turning us into a bunch of brain-riddled zombies who ingest nothing but academics. What happened to letting kids play? What happened to healthy development? Can you see me tearing my hair out by now?
And they're using some 'interesting' tactics to 'encourage' heads to ensure they run the schools well. Give them money if they perform, if they don't, well, too bad. Ugh, and they want to trigger the corporate culture in schools?? Agh, why!? It's a school, for goodness sake! Don't turn it into some funky enterpreneur manoveour! And they want to 'teach' students about integration of cultures, of different races and religions. They wanna do that? First, stop talking about races and religions, and students will get the point. They're not THAT stupid. And another thing? No point teaching them if the 'role models' are portraying all the opposite. So yeah, if you can get teachers to learn to accept and integrate the cultures, bravo, you're on the way to success. I speak honestly and from experience when I say I've seen teachers who are as biased (mainly racist, but I mean other prejudices as well) as they come, and really, students learn and reflect what they say and do. It happens. Deal with it.
And the best part? I haven't seen the term personal growth and development anywhere. Yep, looks like our education system won't change much. It used to be about grades...now it looks like it's going to be about grades too. And they wonder why our human capital is declining, students becoming more unruly and graduates not getting employed.
The current education system is, I dare say, failing at a remarkable rate for a country which really has quite a lot of resources. Now, a new, hum...plan? policy? Never mind what they call it, the important thing is now they say they're coming out with something to 'kononnya' improve our education system.
I looked forward to it, really. I would love to see the education system and quality pick up. Then I saw the four imperatives' and I have to say, there are a fair few gaps in there. First of all, let's check out the imperatives, briefly, of course. Student success, hold schools accountable for student outcomes, or lack of, invest heavily in principals and heads, and develop top teachers.
Can you see the big hole here? What constitutes student success? Student outcomes? Does it mean more As? More graduates? The whole 'policy' hinges on these two terms, yet I can't find the definition in any articles so far. Depending on what they mean, it could make a miracle or mean a disaster.
Imagine that student success means producing more A-students (meaning purely academics). So now, under the new policy, it needs to be ensure that students become A-students. Schools who do not produce A-students will suffer the consequences. This may make the principal or head put more pressure (and blame) on the teachers and students for not performing, because they have been invested in heavily by the policy, and the decrepit performance will be on their heads (no pun intended). Then thte school may lose anything from resources and reputation, and it will become hard to attract and develop top teachers (Oh, and what do they mean by top teachers anyway?)
Now there's even curriculum for pre-schools! So now the nation is intent on turning us into a bunch of brain-riddled zombies who ingest nothing but academics. What happened to letting kids play? What happened to healthy development? Can you see me tearing my hair out by now?
And they're using some 'interesting' tactics to 'encourage' heads to ensure they run the schools well. Give them money if they perform, if they don't, well, too bad. Ugh, and they want to trigger the corporate culture in schools?? Agh, why!? It's a school, for goodness sake! Don't turn it into some funky enterpreneur manoveour! And they want to 'teach' students about integration of cultures, of different races and religions. They wanna do that? First, stop talking about races and religions, and students will get the point. They're not THAT stupid. And another thing? No point teaching them if the 'role models' are portraying all the opposite. So yeah, if you can get teachers to learn to accept and integrate the cultures, bravo, you're on the way to success. I speak honestly and from experience when I say I've seen teachers who are as biased (mainly racist, but I mean other prejudices as well) as they come, and really, students learn and reflect what they say and do. It happens. Deal with it.
And the best part? I haven't seen the term personal growth and development anywhere. Yep, looks like our education system won't change much. It used to be about grades...now it looks like it's going to be about grades too. And they wonder why our human capital is declining, students becoming more unruly and graduates not getting employed.
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
This is most amusing...
The fact that I can still write in here with a fair coherence is proof that I have not gone nuts....yet. But I have made quite a few mistakes in my haste to type, contracted from all the speedy typing I did for my thesis proposal. Surely a sign of my fraying nerves... Just to soothe them, I have allowed myself to slip back into the indulgence of this semi-Reformation civility in conversations, which I so rarely use.
Indeed, speaking like this in any normal conversation will surely warrant unwanted suppositions about my nature (possibly high-strung) or even elicit comments most unfair (likely ridicule). Don't mind me in my hour of self-absorption, which I assure you, doesn not happen very often. But it is necessary, I believe, to retain that very fine balance between work-torn insanity and my current...hum..unusual state. After all, what is a student of the fragile mechanism we call the mind to do but impose some form of strange (and hardly useful) defense mechanism, just to illuminate her eccentricity? So do indulge this silly little conversation, and let me be quite strange.
Indeed, speaking like this in any normal conversation will surely warrant unwanted suppositions about my nature (possibly high-strung) or even elicit comments most unfair (likely ridicule). Don't mind me in my hour of self-absorption, which I assure you, doesn not happen very often. But it is necessary, I believe, to retain that very fine balance between work-torn insanity and my current...hum..unusual state. After all, what is a student of the fragile mechanism we call the mind to do but impose some form of strange (and hardly useful) defense mechanism, just to illuminate her eccentricity? So do indulge this silly little conversation, and let me be quite strange.
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
Into a New Decade
The new year has come and gone, and right now, I can't afford to think about much else but college. Once again, I'm attempting to drive myself nuts by taking 5 subjects, one of which is thesis, which, btw, is contributing 80%to my going nuts.
I'm still feeling the effects of the crazy last sem, a little burnt out, not really feeling like going back to college. But, with all good spirits, and great friends, I made a pretty good recovery. Now my mission to hunt for the correct subjects so I can get a good schedule, learn something useful and relevant, get (reasonably) good grades and hopefully, still be sane by the end of 4 months.
So far, thesis is slowly driving me up the wall as I realise what exactly I've set myself up by picking this design. The 2 cores look okay so far, with one experiment assignment in anticipation. And the remaining electives will be by the same lecturer, who, befitting all the rumours I've heard, is as long-winded as someone her age could be. On top of that, sitting in for possibly the toughest subject of the semester (Psychological testing), which I initially wanted to take, but was scared off by the high risk of a C or worse. So technically, 6 subjects. Overachiever syndrome.
But I digress. My Fairy Tail fever is at its pitch point, for reasons I cannot fathom. It's not like it's a new series I'm following, but for some weird, weird, reason, I'm all moe and kyaa over it. It's not a *pretty* anime...trust me, the characters don't look like they could all pass for girls. In fact, the girls are really pretty, some of the guys are really cool, in a non-feminine way (how often do you hear me say that?) and some character designs are downright WEIRD! But still, from the mangaka of Rave, I'm impressed and enamoured by Fairy Tail's endearing and humourous storyline.
Oh, my fav? Unsurprisingly, Natsu and Gray, but seriously, they're the 2 manliest characters which I've liked since, I don't know. But doesn't mean I don't ship them. Natsu and Gray are sooo together! Really, with these two, they're both reversible, which is always cool. I know how people like Natsu with Lucy, but I like Lucy with Loke. Seriously, those two are super cute together. And needless to say, Erza belongs with Gerard. Full stop. So yes, while I should be reading journals for my thesis, I'm rereading the Fairy Tail manga for maybe the 4th time, I lost count.
I'm still feeling the effects of the crazy last sem, a little burnt out, not really feeling like going back to college. But, with all good spirits, and great friends, I made a pretty good recovery. Now my mission to hunt for the correct subjects so I can get a good schedule, learn something useful and relevant, get (reasonably) good grades and hopefully, still be sane by the end of 4 months.
So far, thesis is slowly driving me up the wall as I realise what exactly I've set myself up by picking this design. The 2 cores look okay so far, with one experiment assignment in anticipation. And the remaining electives will be by the same lecturer, who, befitting all the rumours I've heard, is as long-winded as someone her age could be. On top of that, sitting in for possibly the toughest subject of the semester (Psychological testing), which I initially wanted to take, but was scared off by the high risk of a C or worse. So technically, 6 subjects. Overachiever syndrome.
But I digress. My Fairy Tail fever is at its pitch point, for reasons I cannot fathom. It's not like it's a new series I'm following, but for some weird, weird, reason, I'm all moe and kyaa over it. It's not a *pretty* anime...trust me, the characters don't look like they could all pass for girls. In fact, the girls are really pretty, some of the guys are really cool, in a non-feminine way (how often do you hear me say that?) and some character designs are downright WEIRD! But still, from the mangaka of Rave, I'm impressed and enamoured by Fairy Tail's endearing and humourous storyline.
Oh, my fav? Unsurprisingly, Natsu and Gray, but seriously, they're the 2 manliest characters which I've liked since, I don't know. But doesn't mean I don't ship them. Natsu and Gray are sooo together! Really, with these two, they're both reversible, which is always cool. I know how people like Natsu with Lucy, but I like Lucy with Loke. Seriously, those two are super cute together. And needless to say, Erza belongs with Gerard. Full stop. So yes, while I should be reading journals for my thesis, I'm rereading the Fairy Tail manga for maybe the 4th time, I lost count.
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Exams are nuts
Exams are tough...but having 5 papers, 3 of which are heavyweight subjects, are a little crazy even for me.
I must've been really nuts to go for 5 subjects, but hey, this is the price to pay if I wanna finish up on time. But I just found out that graduation happens only once a year in April, so technically, if I finish fast, I still have to wait for April to graduate. But then, I'll have time to go for my training, and still have spare time over for holidays and whatever else. XD
So for now, I'm just gonna work my ass off, somehow survive finals, then enjoy Christmas holidays.
I must've been really nuts to go for 5 subjects, but hey, this is the price to pay if I wanna finish up on time. But I just found out that graduation happens only once a year in April, so technically, if I finish fast, I still have to wait for April to graduate. But then, I'll have time to go for my training, and still have spare time over for holidays and whatever else. XD
So for now, I'm just gonna work my ass off, somehow survive finals, then enjoy Christmas holidays.
Sunday, November 15, 2009
Net is REVIVED!!!
My internet connection has finally been reestablished! Ah...it's horrible for your net to be down in the peak season for assignments. But it's finally back on, so it's chop-chop, back to work! Will update later.
Saturday, October 31, 2009
Working in Bukit Tinggi
Ah, had a hectic time back up in on Bukit Tinggi helping out with training. But it was fun! Started off with my lecturer asking if I was interested in becoming a facilitator for a training job. I said sure and got some details from him. Turned out the company doing the training was his wife's. Training was supposed to be on Friday, but Christine wanted to leave on Thursday evening to check out the place. So, after asking leave of several lecturers for missing class...up we went to Bukit Tinggi.
Since I've been there several times, I didn't feel as nervous as I would have expected. I know the place we're staying at, and I know the place where training was to be held. At least I won't get lost, right? First thing we did was went up to Colmar, where the training hall was. Peggy and I had been put in charge of the treasure hunt, so we went around the village looking for good spots. After that it was work all the way.
Christine has high expectations from us, and we got a lot of feedback too. It was pretty corporate to me, with all our ideas being questioned for suitability and practicality. But we managed to work out the ideas somehow and spend the rest of the night working on the preps for the treasure hunt, and getting briefed about all the other activities we'll be doing. By the time Peggy and I went to sleep, the birds just woke up. It was what, 6.30 am? And we had to wake up at 7.15 too....
But it was all right...I've had my fair share of pulling close all-nighters and Peggy isn't weak on her knees either. We got the day started setting up the hall, and greeting the clients. Then it was a matter of just going through with our itenary...helping out where we were supposed to. There were 38 participants, so it wasn't too bad. Then it after the breaks and all, it was time for the treasure hunt set-up. Due to some miscommunication, we had to check out of the hotel on that day itself (don't ask me, I have no idea what went on) so while Peggy went with my lecturer to pack up, I was running around the place sticking clues.
When it finally started, I was nervous as hell, hoping things would go well. I had been appointed runner, meaning I had to run all over the place taking pictures of groups while solving puzzles, deciphering clues and at the same time, troubleshooting. I was literally running back and forth Colmar to see what's happening at the stations, snapping pictures of the groups and looked out for the lost teams. Quite a few of them misinterpreted clues and ended up in a completely differnt place, and some even ended up in the wrong stations and missing out certain vital pieces of the puzzle. It took all I had to give them hints without telling them the answer. I think, I spent about 7 hours on my feet, and 3 of those running. I must have ran around the length of the village at least 10 times.
When it was over, they went back for debriefing, we took of the stuff we stuck around town. The clients invited us to their dinner, but since we have no room to stay in, and it would probably end late, we declined and went straight to packing. They sent us home after dinner lol.
This being my first time being part of a training job, I think it was challenging since it was a different environment. The elements of event managament were there, so I wasn't out of place, but all the previous jobs I've done where either for charity or workshops. The agenda was normally decided beforehand and all I did was help out. In this case, it felt a lot more involving since we had to plan as well, which was challenging. But I learnt a lot from the experience and had a lot of fun doing this. Overall, it was a valuable experience. I hope next time, we can do this again with a bigger team.
Since I've been there several times, I didn't feel as nervous as I would have expected. I know the place we're staying at, and I know the place where training was to be held. At least I won't get lost, right? First thing we did was went up to Colmar, where the training hall was. Peggy and I had been put in charge of the treasure hunt, so we went around the village looking for good spots. After that it was work all the way.
Christine has high expectations from us, and we got a lot of feedback too. It was pretty corporate to me, with all our ideas being questioned for suitability and practicality. But we managed to work out the ideas somehow and spend the rest of the night working on the preps for the treasure hunt, and getting briefed about all the other activities we'll be doing. By the time Peggy and I went to sleep, the birds just woke up. It was what, 6.30 am? And we had to wake up at 7.15 too....
But it was all right...I've had my fair share of pulling close all-nighters and Peggy isn't weak on her knees either. We got the day started setting up the hall, and greeting the clients. Then it was a matter of just going through with our itenary...helping out where we were supposed to. There were 38 participants, so it wasn't too bad. Then it after the breaks and all, it was time for the treasure hunt set-up. Due to some miscommunication, we had to check out of the hotel on that day itself (don't ask me, I have no idea what went on) so while Peggy went with my lecturer to pack up, I was running around the place sticking clues.
When it finally started, I was nervous as hell, hoping things would go well. I had been appointed runner, meaning I had to run all over the place taking pictures of groups while solving puzzles, deciphering clues and at the same time, troubleshooting. I was literally running back and forth Colmar to see what's happening at the stations, snapping pictures of the groups and looked out for the lost teams. Quite a few of them misinterpreted clues and ended up in a completely differnt place, and some even ended up in the wrong stations and missing out certain vital pieces of the puzzle. It took all I had to give them hints without telling them the answer. I think, I spent about 7 hours on my feet, and 3 of those running. I must have ran around the length of the village at least 10 times.
When it was over, they went back for debriefing, we took of the stuff we stuck around town. The clients invited us to their dinner, but since we have no room to stay in, and it would probably end late, we declined and went straight to packing. They sent us home after dinner lol.
This being my first time being part of a training job, I think it was challenging since it was a different environment. The elements of event managament were there, so I wasn't out of place, but all the previous jobs I've done where either for charity or workshops. The agenda was normally decided beforehand and all I did was help out. In this case, it felt a lot more involving since we had to plan as well, which was challenging. But I learnt a lot from the experience and had a lot of fun doing this. Overall, it was a valuable experience. I hope next time, we can do this again with a bigger team.
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Busy busy busy!
Which explains why I haven't been updating. I think assignments can kill...
Been kept on the very tips of my toes by 302...thanks to that assignment, I've only had an average of 5 hours of sleep for 3 days. On top of that, had to prepare for 308 assessment. 309 needed planning, but that wasn't a bad as the others. I officially hate 110B. I find it utterly meaningless. Submit a resume and cover letter as assignment? Really a waste of time. They treat us as though we can't write resumes...if we ever wrote crappy ones, it wouldn't be because we don't know how to, but it's because we're too lazy to go and do it properly. The only thing that hasn't killed me yet is 215.
Then on top of the five subjects...there's the issue about thesis. Gotta do a lot more work to prepare for it. And then of course, the new personal project I'm launching is taking up some time to plan too. Ah well, life is best spent being productive I guess.
But really, this week has been back-to-back. Mon was only 3 hours of sleep...then it was lecture, meetings, PAL and more meetings all the way. My day ended well thanks to a certain person though. XD Then the next day was the same...PAL, assessment, dept promo work, meetings, and meetings...then today was again, similar...So much work that my brain doesn't seem to shut down. It's like...every minute I'm thinking about some work. I fall asleep thinking about what needs to be done the next day, and wake up thinking what I need to finish up that day. Brain is like...taxed to the max.
BUT! Today was finally finished with 302 assessment, so all's well that ends well. I think I can finally sleep properly now. I wanna dream of Gackt...or someone. XD
Been kept on the very tips of my toes by 302...thanks to that assignment, I've only had an average of 5 hours of sleep for 3 days. On top of that, had to prepare for 308 assessment. 309 needed planning, but that wasn't a bad as the others. I officially hate 110B. I find it utterly meaningless. Submit a resume and cover letter as assignment? Really a waste of time. They treat us as though we can't write resumes...if we ever wrote crappy ones, it wouldn't be because we don't know how to, but it's because we're too lazy to go and do it properly. The only thing that hasn't killed me yet is 215.
Then on top of the five subjects...there's the issue about thesis. Gotta do a lot more work to prepare for it. And then of course, the new personal project I'm launching is taking up some time to plan too. Ah well, life is best spent being productive I guess.
But really, this week has been back-to-back. Mon was only 3 hours of sleep...then it was lecture, meetings, PAL and more meetings all the way. My day ended well thanks to a certain person though. XD Then the next day was the same...PAL, assessment, dept promo work, meetings, and meetings...then today was again, similar...So much work that my brain doesn't seem to shut down. It's like...every minute I'm thinking about some work. I fall asleep thinking about what needs to be done the next day, and wake up thinking what I need to finish up that day. Brain is like...taxed to the max.
BUT! Today was finally finished with 302 assessment, so all's well that ends well. I think I can finally sleep properly now. I wanna dream of Gackt...or someone. XD
Monday, October 5, 2009
The other bday bash...
Because I spent my 21st bday away from family, and because it was Midautumn's Day, and because my Chinese bday was the day right after Midautumn's Day...family decided to celebrate it all, nice and proper last weekend. Invited quite a few relatives. Tried to invite some friends too, but most are not in Ipoh...so too bad I guess.
In our extended, extended family, quite a few people were born in the 8th lunar month, so celebrated all of those together...we made something of a makan party, called caterer etc...got 3 cakes, my goodness, coz celebrating 7 people's birthdays in one shot. It was quite interesting, but I spent more time running around attending to other people lol. But it was really fun!
After the long and tired day, I finally got around to doing what I looked forward to the most...what else, opening presents la! I would think I'm a little old for presents, but the few that I got sure made me happy. I must admit the one that my mum and siblings got me really made me curious, coz the packaging looks soooo big! When I opened it, the box said Samsung LCD TV. Of course that's not what's inside...what use would I have of a tv screen. Turns out it was a brand new laptop backpack...Nike too! Love the design and colour! And of course, it was something I wanted, since my Converse bag was literally growing a beard with the long use. XD
Other relatives either gave angpau or some form of jewelry...one gave me a realy cute pair of earrings. When she first saw it, she said she really liked it coz it looked like Italina chandeliers to her (both sides are different). When she showed it to her husband, he started laughing and said it looked like some articles of clothing that only women wore. XD When I saw it, I immediately knew what he meant lol! Even though I can't wear earrings, I'll treasure it nicely! XD
The highlight was of course, dad's present. I opened it and I saw the word Nokia! I was like, "Oh!?" Then, my sis said, "Don't be fooled by the box!" While I was a little deflated, I opened the box proper...and lo and behold! It WAS a Nokia 5130 XpressMusic! The first thing I did was said OMG and jumped up lmao!
It was definitely one of the better birthdays all right...
In our extended, extended family, quite a few people were born in the 8th lunar month, so celebrated all of those together...we made something of a makan party, called caterer etc...got 3 cakes, my goodness, coz celebrating 7 people's birthdays in one shot. It was quite interesting, but I spent more time running around attending to other people lol. But it was really fun!
After the long and tired day, I finally got around to doing what I looked forward to the most...what else, opening presents la! I would think I'm a little old for presents, but the few that I got sure made me happy. I must admit the one that my mum and siblings got me really made me curious, coz the packaging looks soooo big! When I opened it, the box said Samsung LCD TV. Of course that's not what's inside...what use would I have of a tv screen. Turns out it was a brand new laptop backpack...Nike too! Love the design and colour! And of course, it was something I wanted, since my Converse bag was literally growing a beard with the long use. XD
Other relatives either gave angpau or some form of jewelry...one gave me a realy cute pair of earrings. When she first saw it, she said she really liked it coz it looked like Italina chandeliers to her (both sides are different). When she showed it to her husband, he started laughing and said it looked like some articles of clothing that only women wore. XD When I saw it, I immediately knew what he meant lol! Even though I can't wear earrings, I'll treasure it nicely! XD
The highlight was of course, dad's present. I opened it and I saw the word Nokia! I was like, "Oh!?" Then, my sis said, "Don't be fooled by the box!" While I was a little deflated, I opened the box proper...and lo and behold! It WAS a Nokia 5130 XpressMusic! The first thing I did was said OMG and jumped up lmao!
It was definitely one of the better birthdays all right...
Sunday, September 27, 2009
21st Birthday
Had a fairly interesting day today. Started off with the pest control coming to spray the house. So since it smells, decided to go out! Wanted to drop by TAF, but it was too early, so I followed housemates to Midvalley. Just walked around a bit, then headed off to Taylor's.
Hmmm....the event is a small-scaled event, with a number of competitions. When I arrived, I think they just finished the cosplay competition. Found my friend waiting for finalist list. Then just walked around looking at the goods and games going on. Nothing much really, but there was a singing competition. Met a few friends there...all of them asked me how come I didn't cosplay lol. Now, if only I have the time and money... Didn't buy anything since nothing caught my eye. Wished I brought a camera though...mine's lousy and broken -_-;; (Oh, my friend won 2nd place in the cosplay comp btw...)
Anyway, hung around until it was time to go to church...before that, I ate at this place called The Street Cafe. I was surprised to see it's Korean! Ordered deokbokki, but it was too spicy and hot so couldn't finish T_T. It tasted good though, and not expensive. Students get 20% discount! And even after I told them I'm not from around there! Must visit again..maybe bring friends next time. Haha, they were playing MVs from Big Bang, Suju and 2NE1. I was singing 'Fire' while eating that spicy deokbokki...how ironic.
Service with Ps Joakim was amazing! He barely preached, instead, he shared many personal stories and testimonies of the young people of Sweden, and how they brought revival to their schools and unis. I was so touched and inspired by their stories. During altar call, the presence of God was surely strong and moving the hearts of the congregation! I pray too that the person in my mind is able to be saved soon.
After service, went to Sushi Zanmai for dinner. Whee~~ XD For a Jap foodie like me, there's no better choice for dinner! 18 of us went! The staff at Zanmai couldn't find enough places for us lol! Food was great, of course. But nothing beats being in the company of friends to celebrate your 21st, yeah? Oh, and it was advance for Samuel. I was just surprised so many went! Even saw some college friends who came for service. Had a nice chat with them too.
Anyway, I had a blast! And coming home to check my FB, I had another surprise of seeing many birthday wishes. Felt really loved and blessed. Thank you Lord for the people around me. Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm gonna go put up the Jae wallie Jas just made. XD
Hmmm....the event is a small-scaled event, with a number of competitions. When I arrived, I think they just finished the cosplay competition. Found my friend waiting for finalist list. Then just walked around looking at the goods and games going on. Nothing much really, but there was a singing competition. Met a few friends there...all of them asked me how come I didn't cosplay lol. Now, if only I have the time and money... Didn't buy anything since nothing caught my eye. Wished I brought a camera though...mine's lousy and broken -_-;; (Oh, my friend won 2nd place in the cosplay comp btw...)
Anyway, hung around until it was time to go to church...before that, I ate at this place called The Street Cafe. I was surprised to see it's Korean! Ordered deokbokki, but it was too spicy and hot so couldn't finish T_T. It tasted good though, and not expensive. Students get 20% discount! And even after I told them I'm not from around there! Must visit again..maybe bring friends next time. Haha, they were playing MVs from Big Bang, Suju and 2NE1. I was singing 'Fire' while eating that spicy deokbokki...how ironic.
Service with Ps Joakim was amazing! He barely preached, instead, he shared many personal stories and testimonies of the young people of Sweden, and how they brought revival to their schools and unis. I was so touched and inspired by their stories. During altar call, the presence of God was surely strong and moving the hearts of the congregation! I pray too that the person in my mind is able to be saved soon.
After service, went to Sushi Zanmai for dinner. Whee~~ XD For a Jap foodie like me, there's no better choice for dinner! 18 of us went! The staff at Zanmai couldn't find enough places for us lol! Food was great, of course. But nothing beats being in the company of friends to celebrate your 21st, yeah? Oh, and it was advance for Samuel. I was just surprised so many went! Even saw some college friends who came for service. Had a nice chat with them too.
Anyway, I had a blast! And coming home to check my FB, I had another surprise of seeing many birthday wishes. Felt really loved and blessed. Thank you Lord for the people around me. Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm gonna go put up the Jae wallie Jas just made. XD
Thursday, September 24, 2009
After the Raya
Hooo dear....
I'm feeling the workload. What with having several meetings in a week, on top of a crazy amount of reading needed. But at least I got to spend a good weekend with my family. They came up for the Raya holidays...which translates to spending time out with them, which equals to less time for assignments, but yeah.
Didn't do anything special...but we went to my uncle's place. And there was a PS2 there!!! I was so happy T_T Just spend the whole day glued to the machine...playing ToA and Star Ocean...finally! The feel of having a controller in your hand and the sight of Fayt going in to bash the enemies with those very familiar skills....sure missed the feel of it. I saw Albel-sama too~~ *dies a happy fangirl*
But now it's back to work....with multiple things to do and loads of stuff to read. Hopefully, by the time the year is out, I'm still alive and well lol.
I'm feeling the workload. What with having several meetings in a week, on top of a crazy amount of reading needed. But at least I got to spend a good weekend with my family. They came up for the Raya holidays...which translates to spending time out with them, which equals to less time for assignments, but yeah.
Didn't do anything special...but we went to my uncle's place. And there was a PS2 there!!! I was so happy T_T Just spend the whole day glued to the machine...playing ToA and Star Ocean...finally! The feel of having a controller in your hand and the sight of Fayt going in to bash the enemies with those very familiar skills....sure missed the feel of it. I saw Albel-sama too~~ *dies a happy fangirl*
But now it's back to work....with multiple things to do and loads of stuff to read. Hopefully, by the time the year is out, I'm still alive and well lol.
Friday, September 18, 2009
Gamers, go watch Gamer
**SPOILER ALERT**
In the future, gaming has revolutionized into a form of virtual reality in reality. Developed by a man named Ken Castle, it started off with a life-simulation game called Society. It pretty much mirrors Second Life and the Sims. Here, a player can control another human being, much like how we control Sims, using them to interact and do whatever in Society...and I really do mean whatever. There are also people who 'work' in Society, people who get paid for being controlled.
A new game, featuring this same model of control, called 'Slayers' was then developed. In Slayers, players control real-life convicts, all who have a death sentence on their heads. I haven't played any war games before, but Slayers is your typical shoot-and-survive game. Convicts are given the chance to go free...if they can survive 30 sessions. And in Slayers, the man closest to being the first to reach that is Kable (real name Tillman). A big part of the movie shows him running around, blowing the brains out of other players in the game, but there's a hint of conspiracy and rebellion through it. On top of it, he's got a wife who is a controlled character in Society and a daughter adopted by someone else. Tillman escapes the system and exacts revenge....or justice, however you wanna see it.
**SPOILER ALERT END**
At first glance, Gamer might look like your run-of-the-mill action movie, complete with fast-paced gun action and pretty gross carnage. It looks brainless, but there is an underlined issue of gaming violence and what it does to people. If you're a psych student like me, you know desensitization and dehumanization.
You can watch it for the bloody galore of it all, but you can also think of the implications the movie has about media violence. Gamer gives us a look at how it's like for the person playing the convict and the convict playing the game. For Tillman, the pain, deaths and violence are very, very real. He carries a psychological burden of having to go into the battlefield...not knowing how many people he would have to kill, not knowing when he would be killed. Yet, his player (a 17-year-old rich brat, Simon) treated the game exactly as it was...a game.
The truth is, no one cared who dies in the game. Blood, gore, violence....the adrenaline rush, that's what drives the population wild every time they watch a live session of Slayers. And to them, Kable is like a shipped hero of that game. So real people died on the other side of the screen...so what, they were criminals waiting to die anyway. That's what's being portrayed in the movie...and it reminds me how human beings remain the cruellest creatures on earth.
Gamer is not a movie for you if you can't stand seeing body parts flying off, or blood spattered all over the place. It's also not for you if you have issues with sexual scenes, since a few players of Society look like their sole purpose in the game is to order their avvies (for the lack of better words) to get laid and watch. Granted, they never did get there, but personally, I found the controller of Tillman's wife really gross.
That aside, it makes for a pretty thoughtful watch...for an action movie anyway.
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Start of new sem
It's just the starting of the sem, but I can see the work piling ahead already. And I decided to be crazy and took 5 subs on top of it. Don't know whether I'm nuts or what, but there's no choice but to do it! Ganbaru! ><
And Karyn's leg isn't getting better...a bit worried about that too. Poor girl's getting depressed just from being so cooped up...but I can sympthasize....since I hate being cooped up with nothing to do either. On another note, Ai Rene's persuasion has finally paid off...and I got back on LJ.
As an aside, just came off PAL today. Met an absolutely interesting tutee....the dude said studying is pointless proudly. But looking at the way he conducted himself...and the way he talked, it looks like he has an interesting character. Talked to him a bit...wondered if I got through... Oh well, he's not exactly under me, but I'm interested in checking out his development. I hope his tutor can handle him...he's a bit tricky to read. And I walked 2 Law freshies back to Main block today, LOL. It's been a good day.
And Karyn's leg isn't getting better...a bit worried about that too. Poor girl's getting depressed just from being so cooped up...but I can sympthasize....since I hate being cooped up with nothing to do either. On another note, Ai Rene's persuasion has finally paid off...and I got back on LJ.
As an aside, just came off PAL today. Met an absolutely interesting tutee....the dude said studying is pointless proudly. But looking at the way he conducted himself...and the way he talked, it looks like he has an interesting character. Talked to him a bit...wondered if I got through... Oh well, he's not exactly under me, but I'm interested in checking out his development. I hope his tutor can handle him...he's a bit tricky to read. And I walked 2 Law freshies back to Main block today, LOL. It's been a good day.
Thursday, August 13, 2009
Short update
Yeah yeah...I know...I can hear the "You haven't been updating vibes" coming from several directions. Haha, I know it's been a trend. The moment I go back home, I'll MIA for as long as it takes for the holiday to be over.
Anyhow, been cutting down on the drive-outs due to the H1N1 threat. Watched GI Joe, and wanting to watch it again, but yeah...now the advice is don't go to places with big crowds so yeah...no movies for a while.
No plans as of yet, so I've been checking out the K-entertainment world...hearing about how JaeChunSu filing the lawsuit makes me feel a little sad. It's true that Korea is perhaps one of the few rare countries which have artistes bonded with long contracts. In Japan, most artistes have to renew their contracts often, but that's because they're not that many companies but lots of artistes. It's really sad for the boys...having to work hard always, and yet not being able to have a breather. These "slave contracts" are really tough deals. And to think that it's one of the biggest groups in Asia to make us aware of these contracts.... I know it's a business for these talent management companies, but really...unlike products, these idols are people. They have needs of their own too. It's not like you can just squeeze all the profit you can out of them while they can still wring out the juices. I think it's big time the K-entertainment industry see some changes in the way they can make better contracts which can benefit both parties.
Anyhow, been cutting down on the drive-outs due to the H1N1 threat. Watched GI Joe, and wanting to watch it again, but yeah...now the advice is don't go to places with big crowds so yeah...no movies for a while.
No plans as of yet, so I've been checking out the K-entertainment world...hearing about how JaeChunSu filing the lawsuit makes me feel a little sad. It's true that Korea is perhaps one of the few rare countries which have artistes bonded with long contracts. In Japan, most artistes have to renew their contracts often, but that's because they're not that many companies but lots of artistes. It's really sad for the boys...having to work hard always, and yet not being able to have a breather. These "slave contracts" are really tough deals. And to think that it's one of the biggest groups in Asia to make us aware of these contracts.... I know it's a business for these talent management companies, but really...unlike products, these idols are people. They have needs of their own too. It's not like you can just squeeze all the profit you can out of them while they can still wring out the juices. I think it's big time the K-entertainment industry see some changes in the way they can make better contracts which can benefit both parties.
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Idle life...
Meh....should I say I have no life, or this is my way of life?
Nah...this is typical Ipoh life.
Lazing around. Since I haven't picked myself up to send my beloved PS2 to repairs (coz the dude said he can't tell what's wrong...need a week to diagnose and maybe a week to fix. On top of that, dunno if it's worth fixing.) I've been told it's better to just get a new one, but my mum is saying that if repairs cost half the price of a new machine, we should just fix it. So yeah...she had to say that after I called her and she said to come back from the shop. It's not exactly within my neighbourhood okay?
So, no PS2. What's a bored girl to do? Well, thank goodness for the PS1 emulator. Replaying Tactics and Legend of Dragoon on the desktop now. And by the sound of it, Sam has good news and will come home bearing a great treasure (in the form of FF9) next week. Finally...after goodness knows how many months of downloading. I don't care what other gamers say, FF9 beats FF8 any time of the day for me. So, yesh, that's one thing to look forward to.
I suspect with all these gaming and of course, feasting on lovely food, I probably grew more portly than I'd like to imagine, but hmm...maybe not too. I have a screwed sense of telling size, so yeah, whatever.
Yup...this is the typical Ipoh life. More or less, equivalent to that of a mild case of couch potato and gourmet traveller rolled in one. Now, if you'll excuse me...I'm off to hunt for another book to reread.
PS: I want to go for HP 2nd round...and I'm waiting for GI Joe...
Nah...this is typical Ipoh life.
Lazing around. Since I haven't picked myself up to send my beloved PS2 to repairs (coz the dude said he can't tell what's wrong...need a week to diagnose and maybe a week to fix. On top of that, dunno if it's worth fixing.) I've been told it's better to just get a new one, but my mum is saying that if repairs cost half the price of a new machine, we should just fix it. So yeah...she had to say that after I called her and she said to come back from the shop. It's not exactly within my neighbourhood okay?
So, no PS2. What's a bored girl to do? Well, thank goodness for the PS1 emulator. Replaying Tactics and Legend of Dragoon on the desktop now. And by the sound of it, Sam has good news and will come home bearing a great treasure (in the form of FF9) next week. Finally...after goodness knows how many months of downloading. I don't care what other gamers say, FF9 beats FF8 any time of the day for me. So, yesh, that's one thing to look forward to.
I suspect with all these gaming and of course, feasting on lovely food, I probably grew more portly than I'd like to imagine, but hmm...maybe not too. I have a screwed sense of telling size, so yeah, whatever.
Yup...this is the typical Ipoh life. More or less, equivalent to that of a mild case of couch potato and gourmet traveller rolled in one. Now, if you'll excuse me...I'm off to hunt for another book to reread.
PS: I want to go for HP 2nd round...and I'm waiting for GI Joe...
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Swell week...
I just came back for less than a week and it's been so "happening"...haih...
Shortly after I arrived home, there was a blackout in my area. Apparently it's been happening pretty often lately. I think the electricity was out for maybe about almost 2 hours?
Then the stray cat we've been feeding (who got pregnant) gave birth behind my house. Technically, inside the compound...and left the kitten there, umbilical cord and all. We were literally running around the house wondering what to do with the kitten, till my mum had the sense to call Luffy's vet and asked him for advice. Turns out that if the kitten was meowing loudly and scrabbling around (which it did) it's probably healthy. So yeah, one sigh of relief. But we have to help it cut the umbilical cord...*gulps*
It was...mystifying, if anything. I wouldn't say I was totally disgusted, but it wasn't the kind of experience you wanna go through again. So I put on the only pair of surgical gloves we have left and struggled with the kitten, trying to get a hold of the cord. It's so feisty, I thought, "Ah, this one is going to live for sure!" So yeah, got a hold of the umbilical cord...obviously, with my hands full of kitten and cord, I didn't do the cutting. My sister grabbed a pair of scissors (which we disposed of later) and cut away...
Done and away with all that, we tried to feed it with some pet formula milk. Future note...straws are lousy, get a dropper. Anyhoo...my mum said if the cat doesn't turn up, I'm gonna have to care for the kitten. Cute as it is, I'm not sure I'm so keen about feeding it and helping it poop. But thankfully, its mum turned up a couple of hours later and carried it off. I think it gave birth to a few more. So there we were, cheering for the reunion, when my sister said, "Ah, we should have taken photos." But yeah..
Then I found out my PS2 is out of commission. AV wouldn't display...argh!! I've checked it through, and it's nothing to do with the TV, nothing to do with the AV cable, which leaves the machine itself...*beep*! My brother's theory was that it short-circuited during the blackout. Which kinda makes sense. So now I'm on a long holiday with no PS...great...
But all is not lost. My sister has somehow gotten hold of FF7, PS1 version. Although, regrettably, my grandfather broke my PS1 when he played with it the last time he came back, Sam downloaded the emulator. So right now, I'm hijacking the desktop until my PS2 gets ported off to repair...or doom be spelled when it's too old to fix. I just got my hands on Abyss and Star Ocean, so I don't care how, but I'm gonna play it.
Time to kick some Shinra ass, so if you please, I'll be off.
Shortly after I arrived home, there was a blackout in my area. Apparently it's been happening pretty often lately. I think the electricity was out for maybe about almost 2 hours?
Then the stray cat we've been feeding (who got pregnant) gave birth behind my house. Technically, inside the compound...and left the kitten there, umbilical cord and all. We were literally running around the house wondering what to do with the kitten, till my mum had the sense to call Luffy's vet and asked him for advice. Turns out that if the kitten was meowing loudly and scrabbling around (which it did) it's probably healthy. So yeah, one sigh of relief. But we have to help it cut the umbilical cord...*gulps*
It was...mystifying, if anything. I wouldn't say I was totally disgusted, but it wasn't the kind of experience you wanna go through again. So I put on the only pair of surgical gloves we have left and struggled with the kitten, trying to get a hold of the cord. It's so feisty, I thought, "Ah, this one is going to live for sure!" So yeah, got a hold of the umbilical cord...obviously, with my hands full of kitten and cord, I didn't do the cutting. My sister grabbed a pair of scissors (which we disposed of later) and cut away...
Done and away with all that, we tried to feed it with some pet formula milk. Future note...straws are lousy, get a dropper. Anyhoo...my mum said if the cat doesn't turn up, I'm gonna have to care for the kitten. Cute as it is, I'm not sure I'm so keen about feeding it and helping it poop. But thankfully, its mum turned up a couple of hours later and carried it off. I think it gave birth to a few more. So there we were, cheering for the reunion, when my sister said, "Ah, we should have taken photos." But yeah..
Then I found out my PS2 is out of commission. AV wouldn't display...argh!! I've checked it through, and it's nothing to do with the TV, nothing to do with the AV cable, which leaves the machine itself...*beep*! My brother's theory was that it short-circuited during the blackout. Which kinda makes sense. So now I'm on a long holiday with no PS...great...
But all is not lost. My sister has somehow gotten hold of FF7, PS1 version. Although, regrettably, my grandfather broke my PS1 when he played with it the last time he came back, Sam downloaded the emulator. So right now, I'm hijacking the desktop until my PS2 gets ported off to repair...or doom be spelled when it's too old to fix. I just got my hands on Abyss and Star Ocean, so I don't care how, but I'm gonna play it.
Time to kick some Shinra ass, so if you please, I'll be off.
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