Limping Marathon Runner

Arrived home a little late after a session of american pool with JapBoy. Our games are never serious and are always filled with laughters. Work and politics in office environment have drained our energy levels. Therefore, we'll usually meet twice a month for a game. Have some drinks before heading home. Of course, usually not too late. JapBoy will be a dad soon and needs to go home early. Last night, an exceptional case, we chatted till 11pm plus. Something interesting happened during our game of american pool though. JapBoy being a better player than Muggs, we'll usually finish one set rather fast. However, there was a particular game where another young "Ah Lian" from another table brushed our butts a few times. You know.. .those times where each player from different, but next table take aim at the same time and their butts meet. So, JapBoy got a few butt cheek kisses. I got a few too. Plus... a poke in the butt crack from her cue. All of these were unintentional. But, JapBoy and I were laughing our heads off. For that, in that particular game, our shots were so way out of standard. It took us slightly more time to finish that set. Lucky thing... she wasn't about to do a brute force follow through ball... else... no riding on bike for a few weeks.

Mm .. .. these few days the air still smell. The haze is still around.

Anyway, I slept till 11am today. Surfed and online for a while before receiving a call from Beng. He was around town area and called me for coffee. Since I thought of picking up something from town, I went down to town. We chatted about my linkup. We walked for a while before I picked up an Adidas jersy looking polo for cycling. Just an alternative. They have XS for white. Left without a choice, since I like yellow better, I took it. Beng left and I walked over to the paradise for I.T. geeks to get a flash drive reader since I'm too lazy to install anymore drivers for my digicam. $90 poorer.
$50 - Adidas jersey
$40 - Flash reader

Incoming SMS ... . Dive lobang to Pulau Redang... awaiting for quotation... since I have the dates of departure and arrival .... looks okay to me. More $$$ pouring out.

Was just reading my sis's blog since she's still in U.S. and she says she misses home. Soon, Karloong.. you'll be home soon.

Today's ride from home - office - town - home clocked a 29.7km. While riding home, I had 2 miss calls. Chini and Brownie tried to reach me for a squash and table tennis session. Once I reach the LBS around my place, I told them I can meet at 2pm. I bought a stand for my bike, so I don't have to lean my bike against the wall. Rushing home immediately, I changed and went for 1 hr of table tennis and 2 hrs of squash. What a day! I took my dinner at Chini and Brownie's place since Brownie is cooking, we show her our appreciation by finishing the food. Not someone who is good in the kitchen, Brownie was still able to fix a decent dinner. We had some icecream before I left their place and head back home. Now, I'm home.. .. I'm really sleepy... had only around 4-5 hrs of sleep last night...

AC called me last night around 9pm, saying that there would be a small coffee session at the East side of the island. As always, I never turn down a gathering unless I have other appointments. Reaching the usual coffeeshop, AhCheng, AC, AC's wife were already there. I was the second last to arrive. Minutes later WRX-Beng came. AC and his wife went to Taiwan and they showed us the photographs. Ahh.. anyone who has been through those "green" training days recalled all the familiar tourist spots in the photographs. We talk about some of our secondary school friends, their lives, exchanging and updating each other on who we have bumped into recently. Trying to find time to gather a cycling session is difficult but not impossible since most of them are attached, married or married with kids. Or else, busy with their work. Then, EndlessTrail SMS-ed me to ask if I would be interested to cycle and meet in the city area this morning. My worry.... have not tried this distance before. It will not be a problem if I'm using a MTB since it has thicker tyres. But still, I agreed. Will need to check with the LBS about the price of GT Ava 3.0 and its availability. Ooops... I hope bonus is good, so as to cushion me a little on my recent "expenses". Spotting that AC's wife has been yawning... we called it a night and all went home. At 1am in the morning, the only one staying West, a cab is the only way home. I reached home, settled down and still... could not sleep. No idea. Didn't take any coffee or tea. No.. . no one specific was on my mind.... Just no explanation. I probably fell asleep at 3am.

Woke up by enthusiasm (probably my brains knows that I'm cycling today), I washed up and prepared for moveout. Riding till I reach my previous company's location, I stopped to buy mineral water and newspapers. All was well and I only had a small "pressurising move" from a BMW driver with me when I was turing left. He tried to overtake me and cut in before me after the turn was complete. *showing fist* "I'm not a teenage school girl and I'm not impressed with your BMW!". Nah... I wouldn't do that. I stopped near my office, had a soya bean drink and now .. . in office. Oh well ... since its still early before meeting time with EndlessTrail, I thought I'll just blog. Mmm .. . squeeze a little.. . . time management.

I just came back from coffee session with my secondary school friends. Will blog about that soon. Got to catch some sleep. Heading to Cityhall tomorrow.

As far as I can remember, weather is a much more predictable thing of the past. At least during my younger days. Pollution has been a problem for a while which most cities want to solve, but have difficulties in doing so. Just on T.V. news, Paris is closing off section of the city to stop noise and air pollution. Why don't we all cycle? Do some workout for your legs.

I just did. Cycled to Fongs' place to take a look at their PC. Traffic was at its heaviest and I was horned at a few times. Quite a lot of hazards for a racer on the street. Uneven roads. Debris. Twigs and branches. I collected my "Finding Nemo" VCD. I braced myself for another round of horns blowing on my way back. Probably the traffic is less.... I was spared. To and fro was 6km. But, I can already feel that cars pay less attention to cyclists and motorcyclists. Welcome to the world where cars are the kings. There were a few occasions that I was "forced" to super extreme left... I have to take care that I do not hit the sewer covers or I will fly because my racer is fast.

After a long chat with Conan last night through IM, he has set an objective. HSBC TreeTop Walk in 3 weeks time. This uncle wants to maintain his fitness (on a weekend basis). He has challenged me to walk the high suspension bridge with him. Our dear friend has no idea about the distance of the walk and whatsoever. I shall see him cry for help. Looking at nearer weekends, Conan has the cheeky to suggest that I cycle to Bukit Batok and he will meet me there using his Honda Civic. He wants me to pace him in jogging. He must be high on booze...... last night during IM chat.

"Mission Abort, I repeat, Mission Abort!", screamed the Fongs. Mr. Fong just touched home base, back from work and advised Muggs to hold flight mission to a later date.

Can't try my bike. So, I jogged instead. Better not rain tomorrow morning, so I can try and then go for my breakfast.

This morning, my trusty Casio alarm clock woke me up at 6am. Right on time, I thought. I sprang up, happily moving swiftly out of my room, I headed to the washroom. As I was about to brush my teeth (since I wanted to try my racer this morning), I heard a familiar sound in a distant.... *Boom* ... .. Crap.... It was already raining.... I couldn't try out my TCR3, I closely the windows in the kitchen, let out a few grunts and went back to sleep again. I shall not risk riding a racer in the rain.

SITREP 1
Reaching office and as stealthly as possible, I logged into Yahoo messenger. Several mintues after I started working on some presentation slides, I was "contacted" by an incoming IM from Turtle. It seem to be she wanted to ask about my life, I obliged and answered her. Watching every word I type, I try not to say things I should not.

SITREP 2
Before leaving office, my eyelid was twitching. In my context, it can only mean one thing. Incoming SMS from Cookie. Don't ask me why. It happens all the time. She was complaining about some problems at her end, things at work. I'm still researching on a scientific logical explanation on why my eyelid always twitch before I receive SMSes from her.

I'll be going over the Fongs' place later, collect my "Finding Nemo" VCD, probably at 9pm. I'm sure my racer wants to come along.

Once in a while, you've got to throw in a reasonable amount of shock to your body. Why would any perfectly sane person would do that? Mmm ... humans are highly adaptable to gradual changes. Hence, sudden different tempo would make your body guess. After my 3.6km run half and hour ago, I did some chin ups. Instead of performing the reps in a descending numerical order, I did it in an ascending order. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 7. Mm m.. 7.... shouldn't it be 10? Fact is,.. I knew I could not do 3 more proper chin ups. Eventually, I stayed there.. hanging onto the bar for another 15-20 secs. My forearms are blaahhhhddeeee stiff now. Sounds like the Lamb.

Last Saturday, receiving an IM from my friend (who always pronounce Linux as "Lee-nooks), we arranged to meet for a cup of coffee. He is still as blur looking, stressed and always having thoughts on his mind. Of course, I can't help but notice some changes. For whatever reasons, our conversation mentioned about Turtle. My friend asked me how she is and if I still contact her. Nope. He doesn't know anything. I found it weird to answered "I'm not sure. I have not heard from her.". But, that indeed was my answer. So, I dropped a "courtesy" IM to Turtle on Saturday night, mentioning that Mr. Lee-nooks asked about her. This morning, I received an IM from her saying that she is still struggling with her health. Her job is fine and she asked me to tell her about my work and if everything is fine. Scratching my head again, I don't know what to feel. Lost .. I guess.

Something on the brighter side of life. haha.. I have 2 different dive group people asking me to dive on Good Friday weekend. One to Pulau Aur and another to Pulau Redang. Another friend asked me to go for biking. I had to turn down all. Reason? Biathlon is up on 26th March. Arrrg .. .. all about timing. Okay.. . I shall jog after this Star Wars movie, do chin ups, sleep early. Tomorrow, I hope to wake up early where there's less traffic in order for me to try my racer. Fingers crossed. Yeah... so crossed till I almost did a typo error and typed "Star Warts". Shit.

At the bike shop, with my speedometer and tail light fixed on my TCR3. I bought a comfortable helmet "within" my budget too. My bike is ready for action. Not yet.. . . carry all the warranty cards and boxes, I couldn't ride properly on the racer. Thinking of the route, I believe I have to manage a flyover too. Hence, I decided to take the safe bet. Push it home. Carrying the racer and crossing an overhead bridge is not too difficult since the racer is light.

Some more things to buy. A backpack. Jersy. Sun glasses. Oh boy.. ..

I just bought a "poor man's" transport. Actually, a racer. Conan went with me to get the bike. But, sensing that the weather is not right, I told the shop mechanic that I will collect the acer tomorrow. True enough, within like 15 mins, rain started pouring like crazy. Conan said it would have been a car wash for my racer and I showed him my palm. Some upgrades to be expected ... I need a speedometer, helmet, rear light... so much more... More "bleeding" to come for my wallet. A mountain bike. I can't go off roads with my racer, can I? Unless I'm asking for trouble.

So, its Giant TCR 3 for now. Mmm.. . an aero bar ... probably later, when I race.

Do you take public transport? Have you ever seen people yawn when they see someone else yawning? Common sight huh? How about SMS-ing? It works the same way where the "yawning disease" propagates. Next time, while you're on a train, try something like this. Even if you do not have an incoming call or SMS, just take out your phone, punch some numbers, stare blankly at the screen and punch some numbers again. Pause and look around. 80% of the time, you'll see some people start to take out their mobile phones even if they do not have any incoming calls or SMSes, acting busy. Works like yawning, an air-borne disease.

I just came back from the movies. It was a free ticket. Our company booked the entire cinema and we watched "Robots". I wanted to watch this show. Maybe my expectation for this show is rather high (because I always enjoy animation shows), I was slightly disappointed. Well, in terms of the way the story is paced. I do enjoy some of its "engineering" jokes. Mmmm, I think I'll rather watch "Hitch" again.

Last night, I got to know Gang4 is going through a bad patch. I hope she is fine.

Ahh... tomorrow.... I shall go to my LBS and order my MTB. Can't wait.

It has been a while since I went for a real holiday. Think that was 2 years back on a dive trip. Changes in job or things happening around me has left me dry. Exhausted. Humans need to recharge once in a while. We all do. My Mount Kinabalu climb scheduled in June is not confirmed yet. I might *roll eyes* have some minor "adjustment" to make too. I can't exactly go too far because they cost too much. Now, Maldives is one option. Take it as helping them in rebuilding their economy which is highly based on tourism.

Probably another half an hour later, got to do some chin-ups.

Today is a grand day for my friend, Botak. His showroom's grand opening. Of course, he has other business partners for this shop. Another hero in IT world is gone. But, as a personal friend, I am truly happy to see that he has ventured into a different field. Something that interest him. All our ex-colleagues and friends wish him best of luck too.

Glad to back from my "camping trip". In fact, I was already back since yesterday noon time. Having some spare time in the afternoon, I watched "Hitch" starring Will Smith. I love the way this film stresses essential points on dating or relationships. I didn't like Eva Mendes's performance though. I headed to the swimming pool and swam my usual number of laps. A surprise indeed. I met Santoku there. We chatted a while, discussing on next dive dates and location for our group.

Probably due to 2 weeks of body conditioning, my biological clock woke me up at 7am this morning. Its more appropriate to say I was woken by my stomach growling. I was hungry. A quick fix, Big Breakfast, at MacDonalds. Now, the highlight of today. Link up. Wasn't exactly the best, something that I expected. Guess the ball is in my court for now. Time to rush off and I went to Samantha's first month celebration. Meeting lots of ex-colleagues there. We all chatted till 6.30pm before heading home.

Arrgg... looks like I have to do some calculated risks for link up decision.

Finishing the "Triathlon 101" book, I can't wait to go to the library again. Usually, for non-fiction books, I'll read books on the same subject from different authors. Different authors would have their own views or points to highlight. True enough, I did pick up several pointers that sounds logical and I would have never thought about.

Talking about swimming. I went for a swim yesterday night, right after I reached home. Of course, I have not been swimming for a week, I could sense that my stamina has dropped. Trying not to stress myself out, I did a lower number of laps. Today, I did a max-out chin-up sets before heading over to the swimming pool. 2km swim was all that what I did today. Not on speed, but rather on interval training and concentrating on strokes.

Okay, a weekend is over for me now. I'll be back to my "camping outing" for my last week. No more blogging and swims till Saturday. I can't wait to get home on Friday night. I have Samantha's first month party to attend on this coming Saturday. Botak's shop opening party on Sunday. A race waiting for me near end March.

Back in my home sweeet home, a break from my "camping" trip, I'm taking a rest from a hot week in the woods. Learning new tricks and knowledge revision on old stuff. Walking in the woods, we did happen to shockingly discover women and a man in the woods. No reason for them to be there,... well.. . except for one. The mattress on the ground was a dead giveaway. Ewww. They were still in their clothes. But, I guessed that they were about to start their "transaction". Sigh. Training area is just not the same as before. Deciding to mind our own business, 7 of us went on in our little "walk in the woods". We saw more mattresses and came across some early warning noise generating devices made from Tiger beer cans. An alert for potential intentional or unintentional intruders. For ladies out there, just watch your back. Stay away from dark areas, especially thick bushes or greeneries. Yeah .. I know, it's sick.

OMG ... people loose weight in camps. I just found out I gained 4kg. I'm not sure if its due to regular meal times or my swims that I take in more food than usual.

Breakfast in the morning with Gang4 and we did some catching up on each other's lives. I got to know from her that YunYun has a baby boy now. That's good. I hope life is kind to YunYun.

Things happen for a reason.

Went to library at Orchard to return some of my overdue books. While browsing at a bookstore, I bought an IM book. Meanwhile, I'll just be reading it. I hope to use it someday. That's a long goal.

Alright .... That's all for now. I shall go offline for a week or two, without posts. Due for "camping trip". I'll sure miss my blue Speedo trunks.

Woke up rather late today, since I had a late night yesterday. I had a simple breakfast and went for my swim around lunch. Wherever bikini swimmers lurk, Muggs runs. I was swimming half way through my routine, 2 bikini swimmers appeared on my right side lane. Immediately, I could sense my lane getting crowded. I could never understand. Muggs had to switch lanes ... because other male swimmers are not keeping their eyes on the lanes but elsewhere.

Surprise surprise, myFTOgpx was around my area and called me for coffee. Anyway, it was time for me to take my lunch. Had a late lunch with him.

Reaching home after lunch, I packed some of my stuff getting ready for my "camp retreat". Took a break when Conan asked me out for coffee. I resume packing and more till just moments ago. I actually forgot to take my dinner. Probably I had too much little bits of icecream, fruits and other food. Gang4 asked me out for breakfast tomorrow. Ha .... breakfast at her "old" neighbourhood. I got to drag my ass to sleep now, while I leave you guys with lyrics of Adam Sandler's Growing Old With You, which I intended to post last night (too damn tired).

Growing Old With You - From Lyrics Search Engine
I wanna make you smile whenever you're sad
Carry you around when your arthritis is bad
All i wanna do is grow old with you

I'll get your medicine when your tummy aches
Build you a fire if the furnace breaks
Oh it could be so nice, growing old with you

I'll miss you
I'll kiss you
Give you my coat when you are cold

I'll need you
I'll feed you
Even let ya hold the remote control

So let me do the dishes in our kitchen sink
Put you to bed if you've had too much to drink
I could be the man who grows old with you
I wanna grow old with you

Wow....its really a fruitful day for me. I have accomplished quite a lot for a day of leave from work. I started my day with a breakfast at a coffeeshop near my place. Having breakfast while reading a book. *Enjoying life* I walked to another nearby neighbourhood, as planned, to take a look at some bikes. I spotted a racer within my budget. The people from the shop gave me some pointers on what I should be looking out for. Mentioned that they have a regular cycling group for Tuesdays and Thurdays, that triggered my interest. I can't wait to get back from my "camping" trip..... Eager to get my bike. I may or may not get an additional mountain bike. After checking out various details that I needed from the shop, I went for my swim. Once I finished my regular 51min workout swim, I went to shop for the stuff needed for my "camping" getaway. Let me tell you....it was really a humid and warm day this afternoon and I was perspiring all over. All of a sudden it rained... The weather...really driving me nuts. I had a quick lunch and did some window shopping at a mall.

After rounds of walking around and enjoying myself watching people vent their anger on arcade games... I went to meet up with Kitty, Lambie and Beng. Beng was late and I met up with the rest first. To my surprise, I bumped into a long time old friend, Gang4. Haha .... I haven't seen her for quite a while. We chatted a while. Too bad we weren't able to have coffee chit chats ... Probably some other days .... She's feeling down lately. I hope she is fine. While Kitty wasn't feeling too good. She headed home. Mmm .. a matter of fact, Kitty's date is suppose to join us for dinner today. So, Kitty has found a loverboy. With Kitty heading home, Lambie, Beng and I went for some tea and we chatted till 1 AM just now. We could just chat and chat and chat. But, it was getting kind of late and I just reached home. It has been a wonderful day.

T.V. just showed the shots for this coming Sunday night's movie programme, "The Wedding Singer", by Drew Barrymore and Adam Sandler. This used to be Yunyun and my favourite movie. Our movie. It sure did bring back some memories. I still remember that I bought that soundtrack album. I loved the track that Adam Sandler was singing to Drew Barrymore on the plane, called "Growing Old With You". Planning to use that song for our wedding day if it will ever take place. In fact, I never had that chance. Ha.. well...all things happen for a reason ... wise saying from Lambie.

Last night, I saw an offline message when I fired up my yahoo IM. Turtle messaged me a Happy CNy and Valentines' Day greeting. Seriously, I didn't know what and how I should feel. Anyway, my astrology or zodiac signs readings are so accurate for me ..... I think its really creepy. I shall stop my daily reading for a while.

Tomorrow, I will be on leave, away from office. I need to get some stuff for my "camping" trip. If time permits, I shall look for my new pair of jogging shoes. Mmm.... I'll take a walk to another estate to visit some bike shops. Time to recce around for prices..... Need to have a guideline.

Ugly things happening at work today. We have a colleague who had a real bad pain happening from her tummy to spine area. Understanding that she has some medical problems and due for surgery next week, we thought that it might something that could be life threathening. She was really pale. Sensing something could go wrong, we dial for an ambulance. She was already in great pain and crying out loud. When the medics arrived, our "dear" HR (well ...one of our HR staff) asked us the reason for calling the ambulance. She says that it is embarassing to have an ambulance to stop in front of our building and it cost the company $80. She claims that the patient will have to bear the $80 bucks. She carried on to say that we should just give her some warm water to drink, let her lie down, rest a while and she'll be fine. Talking about being a slave driver...... Ashole. Well, I can pay $82 bucks...$80 for the ambulance and another $2 to tell you to shut the fuck up. After this, several emails have been circulating mentioning that in the future.... if there is any need of an ambulance, we should consult her in advance before activating one. We check that our colleague is currently in the hospital, under obsevation since she has complications. Fortunate thing, that we sent her to A&E fast. C'mon.... we are logically sound enough to decide if anyone's life might be in danger and therefore, a need for ambulance. We still need to seek approval? What is it cost a life? What can anyone say? "Too bad"? "Sorry"? Where has education brought us to now? Kids... don't learn from adults like these..... too much ass kissing, do you no good. Pardon me.... but, bunch of madafarkers. Corporate cockernathans.

After my swim, I am so damn hungry now. Since CNY is already over, I'll do the honors in clearing some of the festive goodies and yummies. So.. . .this makes part of dinner for my digestive system.

I received a "Radio Check" call today. (^_^) .. . .which is a good thing. Talks shall commence after Friday..*Fingers crossed*

Got a mail today from our company's recreation club. In this coming month of March, we are going to have some very interest activities. We have movies screening.... Mmm .. but, not too sure what movie it'll be. I hope its a good one. Something else caught my attention too. It was "Recreational Climbing Level 1". Ooooo..... No wonder, I heard that the recreation club secretary is an avid climber......

The last round, I missed an opportunity to a kayaking course by the recreation club.

Visions of last year's Valentines' Day flashed across my mind. Ha... A hopeful soul then. But now.... ANYWAY, have to look forward, can't I?

Now, I have the perfect place for our date. There are lots of things we can do.

Take a plunge in the sea of Love,
Cycle on the highway to Eternity,
Run to each other's arms.

Welcome to Paradise....

Beng and I went to visit Mrs. Fong at the hospital today. Mr. Fong is there too. He brought us to see his lovely new-born, Samanthan. We had a long chat with Mr. & Mrs. Fong. It was great seeing them. Once rated as an impossible couple, they have clearly proven to those that believe Mr. & Mrs. Fong would not make it as a couple. Muggs is truly happy for them. I'll see them again on baby's first month, after Muggs service for the nation.

To side track a little..... well...what do you know.... my television set seems okay for now. *Muggs grunts* Must be a T.V.'s day of the month thingy. *Muggs fixes his stare at the T.V.*. "I'll be watching you".

Elites of the night,
Swift moves in the dark.
Silent as they strike,
Leaves you with small marks.

Mosquitoes......... Make you feel like you're sleeping under the skies, out in the wilderness. These little creatures are on the rise recently. Everyone be real careful. Dengue is the word. Stay vigilant.

I got ambushed and awoken by one. Can't sleep and started blogging now. Anyway, they're showing Valencia vs. Deportivo, live on T.V. now.

Gathering at BuiChek's place this afternoon for all ex-colleagues. Generally, lots of people are late. Earliest among my peers and I do not even have a car. I think the kids are happiest at this time of the year, receiving red packs. As usual, I was thrown with the question if I am seeing anyone. I was even told that someone wants to meet a potential guy and my name was mentioned. Ha.... I'm pretty used to it. Adults were operating their mini-casino while kids played with computers. We moved off early since we were going over to Beng's house for an Annual Heroes Meet.

Annual Heroes Meet, held every year at Beng's house around CNY. All heroes busy with their super-duper crime busting activities daily, will cast aside all their work and meet for a Polytechnic classmates gathering. Since Beng's place has the biggest living room, our Heroes Meet is usually held there. Muggs is okay if the Heroes Meet is at Muggs' place. But, my living room is so small. If 20 classmates were to come, 10 classmates will sit on chairs/sofa with a classmate on his/her lap. Today, when all latecomers have arrived (as always), we headed over to Parkway for our dinner, followed by coffee. On my way back home, I saw 4 cyclists on mountain bikes. I felt an itch running all over my body.......

Itching for a swim, I did a 1.8km swim and it was faster than the previous timing of 46mins. I clocked a timing of 43mins 30secs. Pretty satisfied, I tried a 10 strokes per breathe but found out that it was too tough. I managed to complete a 100m of it. But, I think I'll leave it at 8 strokes per breathe. I dropped by at the library to return some books and headed back home.

I was told by Bala that the television set is throwing tantrums again. This time, its the volume of the set. Upon switching it on, it can remain like muted. Approximately after 10mins, the volume goes up and down like a coaster for another 10-20mins before stabilising. I guess the circuits need to warmed up. Anyway, this television set underwent several "operations" before and has caused quite a stir in my wallet. This television has been around for 15 years... what more could I ask for? Manufacturers don't make televisions like they used to. I think television sets now can only last around 5 years?

Divers, have a look at this......

Top 10 Ways Not to Make Friends on a Live-aboard
I love Number 5 - "Use your divemaster's brand new digital camera and housing as a tank banger."

Top 10 Reasons Why Divers Should Not Take Viagra
All of them....totally hilarious

Lots more from ScubaDiving.com at here.

Second day of CNY is usually going to the movies with anyone who wishes to get away from house visiting. As usual practice, ZuiTeLun (don't ask me to explain this vulgarity soundalike nickname, it'll be too long a story to tell), Botak and I went out for a movie. "Racing Stripes" is not a fantastic movie. But, at least, it is a lighthearted story as compared to "Constantine". We went over to Cosy Bay for dinner and drinks. As I was walking around the area, I started to plan out my "pit-stop" for my future rides, when I get my bicycle. Mmm.. still torn between a mountain bike and a racer.... Tough decision.

Today is a great day to swim. Public pools are opened and there is only around 5 swimmers in the pool at one time. The rest of the people are sun-tanning. Mmm.. I thought it is a good day to try a 8 stroke per breathe in the pool for my freestyle and I incorporated it into my swim session. Whoa...8 stroke per breathe is a killer. I cannot imagine 10 strokes. Of course....it all takes time. But, it was a real workout on my lungs.

Happy Chinese New Year! I woke up earlier than my parents, a usual practice. It is a good day. A new day for new clothes and shoes. Most people will be traveling around to visit relatives, colleagues or friends today.

*beep beep* *beep beep* Incoming message alert. Weird looking number. CNY greeting should be from Turtle. Anyway.....

Ha...my body aches when I sneeze. Hahaha... so, effects from last night's exercise.

Hey hey hey!! Its Chinese New Year Eve!! It was a half day in the office. But, I was running around helping HR department in setting up the copier/fax/printer machine. Really busy till drained of energy. Not exactly finished settling everyone's PC, it was aleady 1pm. Everyone is ready to go home. I packed my stuff, headed home and slept till 6pm. I woke up, packed and did some cleaning up in the living room.

Tomorrow is Chinese New Year's day. Everyone will be a year older in Chinese custom. Things will definitely turn better for everyone. For those having reunion dinner tonight, enjoy your time with your family. Will have to wake up early tomorrow.

I received a call today that I have been waiting for. Its late. Of course, never too late. A change for the better.. :)) I shall swim tomorrow since swimming pools are open.

Disappointed with myself, I feel weak. Well, humans live on expectations and Muggs expect quite a lot from himself. Trying out the static station pyramid workout, I could only manage up to set number 6. I failed when I did only 4 chin-ups at set number 7. I completed a total of 21 chin-ups, 42 push-ups and 63 sit-ups. Feeling lousy that I could only reach a quarter of the pyramid path, I ended my workout. I should have continued to work back down from set 6, then 5, 4, 3, 2, 1. Too affected by my own achievement. At least I know where is my max out point for now. Till I attempted again on Wednesday, CNY.

Saw Jenna Elfman on T.V.. Ha... I like her when she was in "Dharma and Greg". I love her performance in that show. She was totally silly and absolutely adorable.

No.... its not some fancy marketing label, where the higher you are in the pyramid, more commission goes to you. Its just any exercises, performed in sets, moving up the pyramid and later back down. Muggs shall attempt as instructed in the "Training Special Ops" book, 3 simple exercises. Chin-ups, push-ups and sit-ups. Here's what to do:
Set 1: 1 pull-up, 2 push-ups, 3 sit-ups.
Set 2: 2 pull-ups, 4 push-ups, 6 sit-ups.
Set 3: 3 pull-ups, 6 push-ups, 9 sit-ups.
.
.
till
Set 10: 10 pull-ups, 20 push-ups, 30 sit-ups.

After which, proceed down to set 9, 8,. . . . all the way back to set 1. That's why its called, Pyramid.

Rushing back from work, I went over to my friendly neighbourhood, Giodano store to pick up a pair of jeans. I needed one anyway. I spotted something I like. The staff said that they do not have my size. Not that I'm too huge. As a matter of fact, I'm too small. My other choice is a low cut hip jeans. Haahah.. not a fashion guru myself, but I'll give this a try. Lucky thing, my abs are still ok, no beer belly in sight. Eventually, I found a normal polo shirt at Hang Ten. I wanted something simple. I raced back home, giving my 2 new pieces of clothing a rinse before taking a quick dinner.

Watching "Daylight" now. Taking my time to digest before I perform a first attempt at pyramid static stations training.

We had an early reunion dinner last night since YMother have to work tomorrow night. It was just a simple dinner with roast meat, abalone, soup, mushrooms and herbal chicken. It is fast. CNY is already here. Soon, Valentines' Day is next. I still remember what I did last Valentines'. Tomorrow night, I shall take a night off from swimming and will do my pyramid training for static stations. Real tired now. *Yawn*. Blog again.

Yikes...now I remembered.. I have yet to buy any new clothes for CNY. Tomorrow.

The other 4 digits of the serial number on my watch came out first prize on the lottery for today.... *faint*. OMG. I could have had a super mountain bike or an all expense paid for watch. Anyway, it wasn't meant to be mine. I did not continue to buy the number after the other set of 4 digits that I won a month back. Hahaha. Life still goes on.

What I can say? I've not had a decent Spa retreat since who knows when. Soaking up all the goodness, resting in my bubble bath, I am set to spoil myself today. Scented candles would be great. Everyday, with the pace I am set to follow, age never fail to leave its signature on me. I look like I am several years ahead of my time. My skin feels smoother now and I can't help to wonder when can I do it again.

Kayano VII in Jacuzzi

More packing to be done. Will be Man In Green soon. 12 days 11 nights "camping" holiday. Greenery is good for my eyes. My pair of boots look screwed.....getting mouldy.

In fact, 2 more days will be CNY. It is really fast. Several days more, Valentines' Day will be here. Can't help but remember what happened last year. Anyway, I didn't expect that tomorrow is a full day at work and on Tuesday, it is just a half day in the office. So, I have decided to start the other pyramid training tomorrow evening. More explanation about the pyramid exercises involving chin-ups, push-ups and sit-ups. I have yet to buy any new clothing for CNY and will probably do so after my pyramid workout tomorrow evening. I'm starting to yawn. Blog tomorrow.

Come to think of it, I would have gotten my Rescue Diver training by now, if I had not postpone my IPPT. Knowledge for safety has always been my priority, in my own views. Its not about certification or what level of a diver I am. I truly believe that certification has no relationship to a person's diving skills. It is about self correcting when it comes to diving buoyancy and stuff like that. Life is never ending learning path. Choose to learn or ignore. Everyone has a choice.

Just returned from Kiat's place. He was trying to " introduce" his Ranchu aquarium fish hobby to us. While Conan and I were not too impressed, we just chatted and went through Kiat's Taiwan holiday photos.

Prior to visiting Kiat's place, Conan and I had dinner at a spot further away from town. Conan did point out that town side would be rather crowd on weekends. We had coffee after that chatting about anything under the sun. I picked up a Norah Jones - "Come Away With Me" CD. Yeah... I know its been at the stores for quite a while now. But, I wanted to get this CD all along. Just that I always say, "Tomorrow".

It's really difficult to get a tan nowadays. Why so? Well...as I was walking to the swimming pool, it was scorching hot. I was sweating from all the heat. Happily, I changed and layered myself with sun-tanning oil. Once I stepped out, ..... it was just Mr Cloudy taking over. What to do? I did a few warm up laps before I start my pyramid swim training. Along the way, several kids cut my lane. Kids being kids. They smiled as I let them pass. There were just too many people in the pool today. I got interrupted several times, even by adults. But, I am glad. I clocked (approximately, minus off 30secs of interruption), 37min 15secs, which is faster than my previous timing.

Okay, meeting Conan later for dinner. Probably walk around and I would like to get a CD album. Blog later.

Dozens of guys gathered for a physical fitness test that they have booked today. I am one of them. I had to wake up around 6.45am and wash up before taking just one banana for energy. Light and fast to digest. As I cleared most of my static stations, I calculated the points I was accumulating. I figured out that I'm left with the last station, 2.4km run, to determine if I can get Gold award. I have not timed my runs, since my last lesiure run, which clocked a 10mins 45secs. Based on this score, I would only achieve a Silver. Of course, monetary reward is always the push factor to me. It can mean only.... more shopping... Subsidising my new jogging shoes or racing flats. Time is up, as everyone gathered at the start line. Command was given and we sped off. Reminding myself that I should maintain a 3min for first 800metres, I just kept going. At the rate I was running, I crossed the end point eventually at 10mins 1sec. Gold award it is. Now... let's take a look at some Asics or Mizuno collection around town, after my swim. Sun seems rather shy again today. Anyway, its time that I shall wash my Asics Kayano VII.

My profile picture is up. Why Charliebrown, you might ask. Simple. myFTOgpx's whole family call me Charliebrown. Its a long story which dates back to our poly days. We are buddies and staying around the same area. Sometimes, I would drop by his place. There was once when myFTOgpx's 2nd sis started drawing a smiley face on an egg and myFTOgpx said it looked like Charliebrown. myFTOgpx's mum said, "You mean that friend of yours?" *meaning...me.., eyes roll*. myFTOgpx and his sis burst into laughter. Ever since, I have a new nick in their household. Charliebrown.

I shall rest early tonight. Another "tribal challenge" tomorrow, which happens to be my annual Physical Fitness test. I'll leave everyone to laugh at my profile picture.

I am suppose to do an early morning swim today. But, due to a last minute change, I need not stay in the office tonight. Hence, I decided to swim after work. Right after 7pm, I sped off to the barber for a haircut. I took a quick shower before heading over to the swimming pool. Sticking to the 1.5km pyramid method, I completed my objective of the day. Exhausted but proud of my improvement because I took only 38mins in my freestyle pyramid training method. The last time that I timed my normal freestyle of 1.5km swim, I took 40mins 20secs. Still catching my breathe, I headed to the shower room as I spot that life guards are getting off duty soon (it was already near closing time). There are 4 rows of shower heads and I remembered pass 2 guys as they were at the shower heads at row 1. Since it is near closing time, it is not too difficult to notice as there are only 3 of us in the shower room. I took the last row. After bathing, as I was drying myself up, I spotted one of the guy as he is already starting to put on his clothes. I took notice of the other guy as he came running over to the last row of the shower heads and started showering there. I thought it was really weird that why he would change a spot since the shower room is not crowded anyway. As I was putting on my T-shirt, a shadow came up from behind. "What time?", I heard a voice. I spun around to spot a naked guy. I mean... "what do you want?". Within striking distance of my jumping back thrust, I can easily land my foot on his face. "9pm.", I said. "9 what?", he asked again. "9:05", to be precise. He hopped along to the second row of shower heads to continue his cleansing ritual. I pondered as I observed that he is not a swimmer. He wasn't here to swim. No googles or swimming trunks around his bag. Only a pair of shoes. He wasn't even bathing with soap. I have no idea why he is here. I have my fair share of meeting weirdos. I respect anyone for who they are, as long as I am left alone. If I feel threatened in any way, I will never fail to strike like a split second of a King Cobra. I take head shots, only.

Last night, laptop-less, I could not create any entry on my trial swim results. As a matter of fact, I have qualified. Muggs along with another local, a French and a person whom I do not know about his nationality have created waves in the pool for our trial swim. The Frenchman, with a better stroke, finished his swim faster than the rest of us. I clocked a 36min 30sec, better than my last timed swim of 38min 30sec. 2 minutes faster.

Talking about physical fitness, I stumbled upon a book at the library which I thought was really wicked. "The Special Ops Workout". It says, "The elite exercise program inspired by The United States Special Operations Command". A brief glance at the exercise that they have provided in the book, I say it is insane. But, they do have some very interesting concepts to try out. Afterall, it's just physical fitness. You'll be lean (being mean is totally
up to you) after a few weeks of workout, based on this book. No pain? Where's the gain?

Now, I've just reached home after finishing my swim workout at the pool. Using a method instructed in "The Special Ops Workout" book, I am exhausted. Totally. I completed my 1.5km swim in the pool but this is how it goes..... Using freestyle, normal swimming style is to perform a right, following by a left arm stroke before you turn to breathe. Assuming we call this a 2 strokes per breathe. I performed the swim in a pyramid method, meaning....
First 100m - 2 strokes per breathe
Second 100m - 4 strokes per breathe
Third 100m - 6 strokes per breathe
Fourth 100m - 4 strokes per breathe
Fifth 100m - 2 strokes per breathe
That would clock a total of 500m already. I repeated the same routine till I reached a total of 1.5km. The book did specified that it is possible to go up to 10 strokes per breathe...... *What the....* I am already having difficulty at 6 strokes per breathe. We all need time, don't we? Improvement is on the way. Since I'll be staying late in the office tomorrow (due to some upgrade jobs), I'll be doing an early swim tomorrow morning. If time permits, I'll pay a visit to the barber after my work. CNY approaching soon.

It has been a while, for a few months, that I did not meet up with myFTOgpx. So, we had dinner and chatted quite a fair bit. Sam was busy and could not join us for dinner. Hence, we were down to just the two of us. After our light dinner, we went to shop around. Remembering that I needed some socks, I got myself 3 pairs of toe shoes. Can't live without them. Nothing much following that and we ended our night after a mocha freeze each.

Tomorrow is my half day leave in the afternoon, which I'll be doing a bit of windows shopping and meeting my dive buddy for a while. After which I will take my "tribal challenge" before I am qualified to participate in this year's Biathlon.

Oh yeah.... I happen to dig out my snorkel and face mask last night and they look screwed.... I mean dry. As a matter of fact, I have been "dry" this year. I have not been diving...... I would have went for a local dive rescue training....but, could not match my schedule.... Too bad.

Music to my ears.. .. as I hear the cash register opens up. My pro-rated bonus is already in my pocket. This can only mean one thing. Time to shop for a bicycle. Now, I wouldn't have any chance to say that I cannot participate in a triathlon event now. Of course, the last resort lame reason that I can give is ... I have no time for training. *BS*. Well, part of my bonus goes to my parents for more pocket money and CNY ang-baos (red packets) for distribution. Hence, with this outgoing sum of money, I will be able to slip away from house visiting, unquestioned. NOT. What to do? You have to be 21 to watch certain restricted movies. But, when it comes to CNY happening once a year, questions fly like darts. Rules of engagement. Once you hit a threshold age predefined by the interviewer (usually your relatives, and threshold is subjective), the interviewee better be ready for incoming artillery shelling questions like:

1) Where is your girlfriend?
(I can memorize and have read of this question for the 349,265th number of times)
2) When are you getting a wife?
3) When are you getting married?
(Applies to question 1, if response is positive)
4) Do you think you are getting any younger?
(failure in answering question 2)
5) Are you gay?
(Question like these often comes from younger generation like cousins who are married and doubtful about your sexual preference. Just for the record, I'm straight.)
6) When are you having a kid?
(Once you have passed question 3, interrogation about your "productivity" starts)
7) When are you having more kids?
(If the number of kids you have is less than or equal to a basketball team, this question goes into an infinite loop)
Note: Questions are in no particular order and preference. Questions may vary.

Therefore, I think it is wiser to spend a smaller sum of money, get a mountain bike and cycle around the island. A definite win-win situation.

Looks like the Sun is up and time for me to do my swim. Hope I can get a good tan on my butt as well.

Although it may seem like an old piece of news, I would like to highlight that Federer seems unbeatable for a while. At least till he lost to Safin. But, I think he's really cool to last for 26 unbeaten matches.

Just caught the news mentioning that Serena Williams has won the Women's Singles for Australian Open. What a comeback since she lost to Maria Sharapova the last round.

Mmm.... when can I get to play tennis again? Seems like all my "kakis" (a.k.a. buddies) are busy with something.

Having the ability to remember dreams might not be a good thing after all. Some people forget what they dreamt of in their sleep. I happen to know how to remember them. I dreamt of Turtle last night. We were happily window shopping while I carried her laptop bag. Dreams always seem so real. I woke up in the middle of the night, laughing at what a silly dream I had. Most people say dreams are your sub-conscious that is working overtime. Due to my past experience, I have to agree. So, I laid back in my bed, falling asleep again. Around 9.30am, I received an SMS from Turtle that she is in town, settling some bills and stuff, asking me how I have been. I replied that everything is fine. Is this pure coincidence or is there a telepathic connection somehow? Anyway, I packed my stuff, got ready for my swim. Saturday's weather wasn't exactly what I expected. We had a little sunlight today while the sky is covered mainly with clouds and still I completed my rounds of 30 laps. Let's hope the Sun is out tomorrow.

Books on communication (as in human interaction) has always been my hot favorite. After my swim today, I popped by at a nearby library to take a peek, hoping to spot some books that might trigger my reading interest. I found a "Reading People" by Jo-Ellan Dimitrius (a leading jury expert - indicated on the front cover) and Mark Mazzarella. This book touches on subjects covering tips that reveal the truth behind body language. Body language that we might be using everyday, actually do tell a lot about someone's personality. Can't wait to start reading....

Walking home one day, raising my head up at the sky above, stars were seen prominently distributed across. I paused my steps on the pavement to appreciate what this fine night with clear sky has to offer. Something I have not done for a real long time. Such a sight has triggered my memories of the past...........

Several years back, when Yunyun and I were an item. I often taught her how to read stars (I'm no expert, but just some little knowledge and whole lot of interest). At times, we would stop at an overhead bridge, spending quality time in spotting every little star. Remembering when I had to spend 3 weeks in U.S., I would find time each night looking at the stars, wondering if we are staring at the very same star. Each night, I would write down how I feel about her in letters and sending them back via snail mail to her...........

Of course, anyone in relationships will have their fair bit in rough patches. Now, everytime I look at the night sky, I will remember those special times that we spend together. I hope that she will always be happy and life will be kind to her.

Totally sucked dry of energy by my work today in the office, where I was running around performing various tasks at one go. Feels like air sucked up in outer space. Sorry... I have no idea what some other co-workers are doing. Therefore, once I reach home, I do not even have the strength to do my swim. Practically, dead beat.

Remembering those younger days when I was a small little kid, I always have my swimming lessons on Sunday mornings. Till the age of 12 (something happened), I had to stop swimming. It was rather sad. Swimming to me means a lot. Yes(most of the time), as a kid, I was often robbed of my Sunday sleep and cartoons. But, most important of all...trips to the pool were considered as outings for our family. Sad memories aside. Come to think about it. If I were to swim since then till now, probably I would have a sculptured body of a swimmer. Oh well... having a jogger's fitness is not that bad after all.

Soon, I can change my Title to..... Limping Badminton Man. I was having a badminton session hours ago. Seems like these days... players getting less. Probably busy. So, we were down to 4 players. In the middle of a game, I almost spained my leg. But, what I've got, was a bad twist... I managed to finish the game. Now, I believe I would have to cancel my physical fitness test on this Saturday. Just in case I stress my ankle out. Being on the safe side. I'll swim to maintain my fitness for now..... Shall I push the blame to time, signs that I'm getting old? I choose to blame it on the same pair of shoes which caused me to fall last Monday.

Just back from my jog and I'm using a new route. After reading an article from an old "Men's Health" magazine, I've decided to stop jogging by the pavements beside roads. Well, this write up clearly states that a person jogging is likely to inhale more air (up to 10 times) of a person who isn't exercise at that moment. You guessed it... I'll be inhaling carbon monoxide.... which happens to be 2nd expended V-Power fuel from Shell, Mobil and what have you. I'll probably jog by the roadside when its really early in the morning.. *wink* (provided my trusty Casio alarm buzzer can wake me up). So, after my run at the park --> new route, I walked back home. Once I hit the main road... *phew*..... it feels like I'm stepping into a disco, pub or something like that. Carbon monoxide slaps across my face like a T-Rex's flesh rotting, stinking breath. Now.... since, I'm hoping to getting a mountain bike soon, I'll leave all the opportunity of carbon monoxide intake when I ride on the roads.... till then..... I'll be off-road.

Whoa.... Too tired to do any blogging tonight... I need to sleep soon because I'm changing my schedule to jog in the morning now. 6am. 0600hrs.... 5 more days to physical fitness test. Passing is not a problem. Its a matter of which level of achievement I can get. Nite.

My day started rather late because I had a late night due to jogging. I met up with Endless Trail and his friends to look at some mountain bikes. Since, I planned to buy one all along. I thought it would be better if I seek some advice from soneone who is familiar in this area. I need a bike to be an all rounder..... Off road, on road (for my suppers...since I need to gain weight). We went to 2 shops and I have more or less an idea of what I would be buying. We ended our search for our ideal noble steed at a coffeeshop, disgesting all the information on price tags vs. technology while we sipped our drinks away. We parted after finishing our drinks and I stopped elsewhere, meeting another friend for a show. It was "Shall We Dance?" by Richard Gere and Jennifer Lopez. Some reviews said that this show is not fantastic. But, I have a different opinion. I think this show is similar to "As Good As It Gets" by Jack Nicholson and Helen Hunt. "Shall We Dance?" emphasizes on what you can do, rather than who you are, what you are and where you might be. Its about being passionate with something, an interest. One would excel in something that they put their heart and soul into. I love this particular quote from the show by Beverly Clark (played by Susan Sarandon) which says much about the meaning of a marriage:

"We need a witness to our lives. There's a billion people on the planet... I mean, what does any one life really mean? But in a marriage, you're promising to care about everything. The good things, the bad things, the terrible things, the mundane things... all of it, all of the time, every day. You're saying 'Your life will not go unnoticed because I will notice it. Your life will not go un-witnessed because I will be your witness'."

I think this quote has so much meaning in it. At times, we see people around us taking relationships lightly. Why can't they spend more time and effort to improve rather than just quoting the usual line, "You wouldn't understand....". Something for all of us to digest tonight when we lie in our beds.

Just did a 3.6km run instead of 5km as it is already late. As soon as I came back home at 2330hrs, I rushed to change into my jogging gear (because its getting late). Sensing that my quadriceps, calfs and other related muscle groups are stretched and warmed up, I sped off on my 3.6km route. Dear avid joggers, Limping Marathon Runner Man - Muggs has a point to stress.... always check that you have securely fasten the string that hold your skimpy looking jogging shorts. You can forget to fasten your shoes laces....its okay. You can always stop to tie them up. You can NEVER stop and fasten the string of your shorts in public.... No, no, no... it wouldn't seem appropriate. It would look like an obscence act from as far as 10 metres.... I would get a round-house kick in the groin, if I'm spotted doing that within a radius of 5 metres. Hence, I proceeded to jog since I can't do anything about the string. With every 5 times that my right foot striking the pavement, I yanked my shorts up. Otherwise, I would make the headline on today's (since its past midnight) papers. "Midnight Flasher Spotted in XXX Neighborhood". Of couse, occasional onlookers on buses would throw puzzling glances at me, trying to figure out if I have gold bars stuffed in my pockets since my shorts keep slipping lower. I ended my 3.6km run and I had to skip my chin-ups too. Imagine my shorts greeting my ankles if I were working out at the chin up bar. Another headline would read, "Bold Midnight Flasher Strikes Twice Within An Hour".

Now, averaging 60 times that my right foot strikes the floor, it would equate to 100 metres and if I were to tug my shorts once for every 5 times that my right foot strikes the ground:
Number of times I yank my shorts upwards for 100 metres:
60/5 = 12 times.

Number of tmes I yank my shorts upwards for a Marathon distance of 42.195km:
12/100*42195 = 5063.4 times ~ round off 5063 times.

Hey, who knows.... it might be a good lottery number....That is provided I can survive
60/100*42195 = 25317 times that my shorts brushing against each of my inner thigh, giving me abrasions.

Need to catch some sleep now....start mumbling nonsensical gibberish.

*Pant..* Just got back from another 5km slow jog. Breatheless due to 3 sets of chin-ups (max number of pulls) with interval of 60secs each.

Now that I've posted my Shanghai pictures online... I shall try to target to scan some of my Krabi photographs and post them by next week?? My profile is still waiting for me to update my photo..... Yeah.... I just need to settle my drivers for my Windoze before my digicam permits photos via USB.

No swim night - waiting for my cuts to heal (soon...another day or two).
No jog night - designated rest night for my knees *eyes roll* or knee caps, if you prefer.

I spent the whole night, X-boxing (new terminology), reading people's blogs.....
Spent a small fraction of an hour for some online gaming updates.....
More work on my online album editing and uploading....

I can't wait to get wet..... read my lips, S-W-I-M, that is. Jogging resumes tomorrow night.

I sent a book, "Icecream for Breakfast", into the hands of someone so near yet so far.
An sms of thanks arrived at my mobile phone.
My email reply was simply a "No problem, No worries".

Unintentionally, I just found my "Pink Elephant".

I finished the book, "Open Water Swimming", and I started another new book in the self help section, namely "Drop The Pink Elephant" by Bill McFarlan. This book is about personal communication, dropping denials (Pink Elephants) and talking about facts instead. Suddenly, I have found my first "Pink Elephant" with my actions in the scenario above.

No, I can't swim yet... Wounds should be healing by tomorrow... It looks promising.... I shall commence my 5km jog in just a while....
*Mouse Click on Publish Post, Sign Out*
*Alt-F4, Click click Shutdown, Carriage Return*

My off day seems to kick off with a rather slow start where after my breakfast with my parents, Mr. Sunshine went on leave. Mr. Cumulus Nimbus took over instead and I knew that it was the end of my sun-tanning plan. Still, I proceed with my swim with the following configuration:
Appetizer - Warmup
2 x 100m Freestyle

Maincourse - Objective
1500m Freestyle

Dessert - Fartlek a.k.a. Interval Training = Sprint, Rest, Sprint, Rest Repetition
(It is not a bad word, you couch potatoes!! See Fartlek explanation here.)
3 x 100m Freestyle with 30secs rest interval

Done with my workout, I changed at home and went off to look for some video capturing card. By the way, I think I'll postpone the Arts Museum visit to Friday. I went to look for my bag. But, I could not find whatever I wanted. As I approached my meeting place to meet up my friends for dinner, I slipped and fell. Fortunately, I landed on the right side of my body. But, I suffered some minor cuts and bruises. I'm going to throw that pair of shoes away. There is not enough friction on the soles by Mr. Limping Marathon Runner's standards. Although it's relatively new, I think my life is more important than a pair of shoes. I will replace my dress shoes for work too because I feel like I'm wearing a pair of rollerblades.

What a day for my off day from work......

Since I've finished my DaVinci Code, I'm reading a new book on Open Water Swimming due to the fact that I'll be doing a biathlon. Life is a never ending path of learning new things and revision of knowledge for oneself.

I'm currently arrange my photos and shrinking them in size. I'll be posting them soon. Talking about photography... I passed the Arts Museum on Friday and saw Russell Wong's exhibition. I think I'll take a look at the exhibition tomorrow since it is my off day from work. I shall take breakfast with my family in the morning. Go for my swim after that because I will be busy and can't swim on Tuesday and Wednesday night. So, after my swim and some sun-tanning (hopefully sun is bright), I think I will head over to look for my backpack. Following by Russell Wong's photography exhibition before I meet up with Kitty, Lambie and Beng for dinner. My treat. So.... lots of things to do in one off day.

Today, I had a long and fruitful day too. Played some Xbox games. I swam around 1pm when the sun was torching my back (my bum was sheltered by my Speedo, of course). Occasionally, a cloud or two did cast shadows over the pool. I clocked a 42min30sec timing using freestyle (arms only, without legs kicking) for 30laps. Rather satisfied with the timing that I should be able to qualify during my trial swim. Keep training for now. After my pool workout, I did some early Chinese New Year (CNY) shopping, buying some soft drinks for my parents, in case guests were to pop up on CNY day. After dropping all my shopping bags at home, I changed and proceeded to my usual 3.2km route for my jogging session. I completed my 2.4km with 10min 45sec. I am 30secs away from a higher remuneration. 2 weeks away from my Physical Fitness test date.

Bad english... This name reminds me of two things. One, an 80's band (if they were from 80's anyway). Two, really... just plain simple bad english, literally.

Two accounts on bad english....
Case 1: Ever wondered why people stand on the right side of the escalator at all times? Signs are up everywhere tell commuters to keep left if standing. The right "lane" of escalators are meant for people who wants to walk or overtake. Our locals have actually contributed much to the travel industry during "reported" economy "gloomy" times. Who knows.... these people might be touring places of interest, buying out every items that has a sale tag on it. I can't help but wonder have our locals actually observe the citizens' (of the country they are touring) behaviour? Japan for example, most people are very social conscious. Probably these people are confused about the signs that we have. "Keep left, if stationary". Maybe they have too many problems to worry about. Perhaps bo chup (simply not interested in social gracefulness).
Commuter: *Mumbling to oneself* "Your left or my left? Left on ascending or descending escalator?"
Conclusion: Everyone has something on their mind. Or put up signs with more specific instructions in simple comprehensible steps. Example:
Step1: Step onto escalator, going up or down does not matter.
Step2: For adults, raise left hand to waist level. For kids, raise left hand overhead.
Step3: Keep moving left till left hand touches something rubbery.
Step4: Wait till ride on escalator to end. Step off.
*Extracted from Dummy's Guide to Using Escalators* - written by a pissed engineer who happens to documents instructions and networking setups as part of his multi-function role, where even a non-IT personnel can understand. A.k.a. Muggs.

Case 2: During lunch hour, after my meal, I headed over to a "One and only one" fruit juice store. Looking at a list of healthy beverages that I can select from, I made up my mind. Orange juice... healthy, plenty of Vitamin C. An orange a day, keeps "ha-choos" away. Smiling at some 40 or 50 something lady, I said
Muggs: "Orange juice, please."
Lady: "Or leng joo? Okay"
*Muggs was staring at the lady as she reaches out for a peeled orange, before she pops one into the juicer, I let out a sign of relieve*
Lady: "To fitty*
*Muggs performs a lightning speed of 300Mb/sec seek time on the menu*
Muggs: "Ah.... two fifty...Here's five."
Conclusion: We all have our bad hair days..... here's something for a change. A bad mouth day. No, I'm not laughing at this lady's pronunciation. As a matter of fact, at times, we might shoot off sentences like "Orange juice, please" as quick as we say "Shit". Now... "Orange juice, please" might sound like, "All rain jude, peace". Take a breathe, slow down what you want to say. Speak with clarity. I trip over my own words, entagle my tongue in a "fisherman's knot" too, when I execute the 300Mb/sec seek time as "speak time".

I did a timing on my 30lap breast-stroke swim and I managed a 38 + minutes. It seems like I should be in for this biathlon.... \(^_^)/ .. .. *clap.. clap..... Muggs clapping alone* But, still... there's more work to be done.... not slacking, at least not now.....

Dropping off early at work, I proceeded to the neighbourhood of my previous workplace. Objective? Of course, needless to say, the swimming pool. It is known to be one of the less populated pools around due to it being inaccessible to people without personal transport. I choose my favourite "transport" ... my legs... a walk. Just as I expected....the pool had less than 10 swimmers. I was able to do my 30 laps of freestyle... after my satisfying workout, I ate at one of my usual delicacies.... dumpling with vinegar... Oooo la la....and off I went, back home, changing into my jogging outfit...... once I digested my "snack", I ran a 3.5km route. So, there you have it..... what I call a Cheater's Biathlon (with rest and food included). Just hoping to make it within my 40 minute timing for my biathlon trial swim. Fingers and toes crossed for now.

No fear, Wrestling fans!!! We have our own localized version of WWE. Who needs to watch Pay-Per-View Wrestlemania anyway? Why do you want to see men with beautifully scupltured bodies hurl abusive languages and spit on one another when we can have cheap thrills watching local aunties screaming their heads off over some pushing incidents? Ah ha...... its easy ..... throw a 75% discount over some jewelery sale and you'll see aunties pushing each others into corners before they do war cries. I think the only thing left that they did not do was to call for backups (requesting allies onsite - commonly known as "diao jwee" to our locals, starting a Royal Rumble). It was captured on the national news.

If you do not have the slightest clue about what I am talking about.... Worry not, Wrestlemania fans.... I shall fill you in with the details. One of our oldest jewelery shop around has announced that they owe millions of dollars to banks and suppliers. Hence, they are having clearance sale. However, there was a pushing incident of some sort. There we have it..... a quarrel followed.... Next minute, a news team which happen to be covering the news of the sale in the shop, captured the commotion taking place outside the shop too. Well....these plain brainless disputes are totally unnecessary. However, some of our locals seem to enjoy these encounters. Who knows...probably items that are obtained via squabble are conquest treasures? Ooooh... you should see how ugly the crowd can turn especially if its some last set of our free local newspaper. You'll probably might see hands of more than three different people holding onto that newspaper and if anyone's biceps twitches.. the poor piece of newspaper will be in shredded. Some culture huh? Its either a choice of embrace or embarrass. No, I do not support such manners replicating hooligans .... . What does that make you? An educated gangster? *Muggs ponders*

Oh dear.... This morning, before heading to work, I thought of taking down my Speedo that I've left to dry last night. Amazed by what I saw, I almost fainted. My Speedo actually has furry woolies around the butt area. Throw my swimming trunk into one corner and it looks exactly like a Furby... .. . They just don't make swimming trunks like they used to, eh? Guess I'll have to get another pair of Speedo. Can't shake the idea of a furry ass... Ha... I don't fancy the idea of the word "SPEEDO" splashed across my ass anyway. If you've seen one of those Speedo designs... Probably I'll get an Adidas swimming trunk.

I'm going to jog later... my acid juices are working on my Gardenia bread with "Ba Gua" that I've downed half an hour ago. I should be getting a bath after that and catching a 7 hour sleep before I swim at 6.30am tomorrow.

Had to work rather early today and I thought, "wouldn't it be great if there's no rain?". Nevertheless, Mr. Gloomy cloud decided to make a weeping statement... It poured. By the luck of Australian kangaroo balls,and miraculously it stopped. Heading home, did some Net surfed ... I headed to the swimming pool feeling great that I was able to swim today.

I came back around 7 plus from my swim and I am one BIG pissed aquatic creature. I could even hear Eminem singing underwater, "Would inconsiderate swimmers please get out, please get out, please get out!" There is just one particular swimmer who seems to be having too much booze .... crisscrossing lines. I bet he could not even walk in a straight line on land. Probably he's trying to spot a bikini swimmer who happened to be on my right. Damn. Guess I'll have to swim when its 6.30am in the morning. I just found out that on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday, it is possible to swim early at the swimming pool around my town. I don't think bikini swimmers would actually swim during that kind of hour. Anyway, I left the pool, feeling pissed. But, I've completed what I want to achieve. I need to do more.

It has been raining for almost a day. Nah.. couldn't actually train for my swimming. The life guard would definitely ask us to get out of the pool. I have to work early tomorrow morning. I hope we can finish off early so that I can carryout my swimming routine. I guess I'll just have to do some static exercises later.

I'm close to finishing "The Da Vinci Code" now. I understand why I hear that some people are pissed about what is written in that book. Shall not comment more......

I thought a lighter notebook I changed with my office (I was using an old IBM thinkpad, heavy as a boulder) would do some good. Ha... it has a faulty harddisk..... My only way left.... boot it with a live CD... getting the browser to do https so I can access some sites... .. Took me a while... .. yeah.... it'll do for now. That's why I have not been updating these 2 days.

*Pant* Shit! .. . I feel like I'm moving like a Crown-Of-Thorns in the pool. I just came back from a swim, an hour ago. Sharks.... I feel slow, weak... you name it, I feel like shit. Looks like I've not been swimming for a real long time. I can jog.... But, I seem to have lost touch. .. . I feel more like a puffed-up Puffer Fish than a Bottle-nose Dolphin. But, I'm glad that I had this workout to guage my fitness level.. .. Its way low. Looks like I have more work to do ... . more splashes...

Ah ha!! I spotted the Biathlon (I checked on the Internet, its suppose to called Duathlon) registration online, which happens to start from today. I raced to sign up for the Biathlon and I was told that I have to do a trial swim of 30 laps of 50m within 40 minutes. To gear up, I managed to find the pair of goggles that I wanted. Speedo Futura Ice. Okay.. . . Serious Wet and Wild Training starts tomorrow.

"I hear splashes!" - U-571

Karloong (which happens to be my little sister) emailed me. I think she enjoyed her trip to L.A. and San Francisco tremedously. She's probably back in Texas now.

*Ring-ring* *Ring-ring*
*Ring-ring* x number almost near to infinity.
*click*

Wimps' Department Of Complaints: "Ya. Wat you wan?"
Muggs: "I want to complain."

WDOC: "Ya lah. If not, why you call this number? Got things, say. Got fart, let it rip."
Muggs: "Why can't people take up responsibility at work?" Can they actually make something happen rather than just sit and wait for things to happen? After which, they will say it should be like this or like that? Are these traits of a I-don't-give-a-damn-and-get-out-of-my-way survivor? Survivors who do not have more skill sets and yet leech on, hitching a ride?"

WDOC: *Blech* "Aiyah..its not my problem wat. Its oso not their problem...So why bother, brother?"
Muggs: "Are you listening?"

WDOC: *Sounds of a toothpick working on sesame seeds stuck between molars* "Ha na....ha na...then?"
Muggs: *WTFish* "Ooei..."

WDOC: *Sounds of a nail file working on a toe nail* "Somemore?"
Muggs: *Shaking my clenched fist in mid-air* "Damn you."

WDOC: "Watever lah. Tank kew lor."

Target - Can't change the environment, change yourself. Watch out, coming to you in June.

I met up with Kitty just hours ago to discuss some plans about the Mount Kinabalu climb. If everything goes smoothly, we shall be departing by end April. From now till then, we'll have to do our own "special ops training". Wash my toilet at home, pack my room, do some laundry....yeah....that ought to do the trick. As for those muscles on my butt and thighs..... I'll just have to down a few more glasses of orange juice and crap in the traditional squatting position. Nah, we'll probably do some walking with full combat load around some green scenary.

Hahaha, my lucky Railmaster. I bought the serial number of my Railmaster and it came out in starters for Sunday. I wasn't even aware of it till today. I was about to dump the ticket away. Not much. But, just $500 to subsidise my watch. What a way to start year 2005! Probably after a few treats to friends, a little will be left and only probably $100 or $200.... I think this is only the second time that I strike lottery. Luck is never known to be around me when it comes to lucky draws or lottery. I'm still thankful.

Anyway, I going to buy my goggles since I'm going to go for the Biathlon this year. My old swimming goggles? They're screwed.

Today, I went to do some window shopping for my new PC. At least, OCS bought his, right on the spot. So much changes on the PC scene. Yes, you're right. I have not been upgrading my PC for a real long time. Moreover, I passed my PC to my buddy, myFTOgpx. Have no fear!!! I'll fix my new PC only after 9th Jan 2005 (some work appointment).

*Yawn* I just woke up. I had a wonderful day on 1st Jan, a great to start Year 2005. Although it was raining yesterday during in the afternoon, it stopped around 3pm. It can't be raining the whole day, I asked myself. We're having BBQ at night!! My secondary school friends and I are having a BBQ session at Jimmy's house. Every year, this is our tradition to celebrate our friendship. By end of 2004, we have known each other for 18 years. Time flies. Definitely faster than speed of sound. The amount of food we gathered this time was just right. Last year, we bought more than we could finish. We had a smaller crowd this year. I guess everyone has their own programme. Nevertheless, it was still enjoyable. Our center of attraction of the night was still Wilson's little daughter. She was rather shy when she reached Jimmy's house. After half an hour of "warming up" session, she was pratically having fun, partying with everyone. Adults were all engrossed in chatting, drinking and munching. Around Jimmy's house, we heard mangoes dropping. Yep. You've guessed it. We had mangoes.... free fruits.

After our BBQ session, most of the guys sent their wives home. To extend our gathering session, we went to have a chit-chat coffee session at a cafe. All of us agreed that we should hold a big celebration by year 2007 because we would have known each other for 20 years. Isn't that a reason worth celebrate??!! So, we chatted till 2am this morning before we all left. I reached home and slept till now.

I received a mysterious call. It was Sam, my long time pal which I've known him since Primary 1 schooling days. We exchanged greetings like idiot, silly a******!! That's our way of showering brotherly love. We updated each other on what is new for us. I promised to visit him in Sydney, since he is in Australia now. We chatted for half and hour. More abusive languages and season greetings carried on.

How was 2004 for everyone? Have you achieve what you've set out to do in the first place? Or do you regret for under achieving? I hope everyone will have a smooth sailing Year 2005 ahead.

It has been a ride of rollercoaster for me in Year 2004. I changed my job, after going through thick and thin with my previous company for 7 years. Loyalty doesn't seem to be the most happening thing on earth now. I felt that I've had enough and I left. I'm still adjusting my life in a totally new environment. Things work differently, and so does people.

I learned how to play tennis, which is a good thing because I can't do without sports. I was able to participate in various competitve runs too. I'm looking forward for more activities in Year 2005.

Coming out of a shadow of failed relationship and mis-used trust that seems to be a permanent cast on me, I moved on. I decided to have another go a relationship. It didn't work out. *Previous postings in archive tells it all.* Yet again, I learned more on human psychology, body language and choice of words.

I learn more and more things about myself in a path of self-discovery. I look forward to Year 2005 with more goals that I want to achieve. Have you set your goals yet?

After so long, I still behave like 5 years back, where I had to perform a forced shutdown on my senses. It isn't the most appropriate thing to do. But, it has already been pre-programmed into my CPU. Its not too difficult to know that I can never be a sales person. A new year's resolution:
1) Change for the better. Remove "look-away program". Insert "smile even when you are pissed program".

I'll just have to learn again, like a Nokia mobile "insert text" in dictionary function.

Dear runners. ... . have patience... I'm currently trying to migrate my old website, "The Sotong Club" a.k.a "The Squid Club" and try to compliment my current "Limping Marathon Runner".

Last night, I was having a game of badminton with Jason and friends. I don't understand why. But, somehow, the shuttlecock just seems to find its spot on Doreen face. Poor gal. The heat seeking shuttlecock just locks onto her head like an air-to-air missile, landing with a whack! Not some pretty sensation, I'd say. Nevertheless, it's still better than getting hit by a baseline tennis ball, right in the face. After the game, we had some drinks at a nearby cafe before heading home.

Today, still following up on what is going on with regards to the Asian Tsunami incident, I can only hope for the best for those in the affected regions. I did some donations for foodstuff and medical supplies and I hope it can help someone there.

Last night, I was too god damn tired to blog. But, I saw the tsunami taking place around most places of Asia on TV news. It was too devastating to see. Familiar places like PhiPhi that I have been to, was partially reduced to ground zero. I suppose those beach houses by the cliffs... they would have been gone, by now. I was even thinking of going to Krabi and PhiPhi island again in year 2005. Another place I wanted to visit would be Maldives. It should be hit pretty badly over there too. With all these unfortunate things happening around us, no one can understand why humans cannot co-exist together without picking a fight. No more fighting and war, please. Treasure those around you.

But, what came next on TV was rather heart warming too. It was a documentary about a kid who has a tumor weighing down on her optical nerves causing her to have blur vision at first. Gradually, she has partial blindness and she has to go for an operation before she is blind totally. Swallowing 40 over kinds of pills a day is not a joke. I'm amazed at what mental strength this 9 year old kid has. She has triggered me to think even more. Again. Treasure those around you.

Another year is around the corner. Have you done what you have set out to do last year? What goals have you not achieve? In a few days time, we all have to recap what have taken place for the whole of this year and what is our resolution for year 2005. Love those around.

Conan called me a while ago, asking me out for coffee. I guess he must be feeling down.....

What a night! Yesterday was Christmas Day. I had quite a day of events going on, meeting different groups of people.
Early in the morning, I had breakfast with Donkey since she just came back from Korea. She shared what she had seen and experienced over there. Reminding me what big asses Polar bears have. "They have a really really big ass!!!! You know?" Yes.... .. I know what a Polar Bear is. After breakfast, I gave Donkey her X'mas gift and we went to look for some bags. She needed a new laptop bag. As for me, I needed to replace my old Converse bag. You guys should see the bag.. . . it should not be holding together any longer than 4 months..... The straps are really .. . .. . I should not be too descriptive because it was a gift to me on my Birthday 2 years ago. But, its cutting my shoulders like scimitars. So, we couldn't find any good ones around the area, Donkey left for home. I really have lots of time till my next appointment, I went to my fav bookstore to read magazines... to catch up on some articles. I bought DaVinci Code too.

Time Check. 1.30pm. I should be meeting Jaws for B.T.'s house warming. It's quite a cosy little lovenest. But, personally I do not like the location or I should say the people hanging around the location. I never liked that neighbourhood due to specific reasons. I met Chris, a Yoga Instructor. Mmmm .. . Yoga. Nothing bad about this yoga stuff, really. I guess here, our locals' interest in certain things are as short as a 100mA fuse .. .. "Poof" .. You're gone. No, I'm not talking about the instructor. Its the general public. We have bubble tea, wake boarding, yoga, pilates, clubbing, and more. People should know what they want and not follow 3 little blind lab mice.

Jaws and I left the party at around 4pm and looked for our objective of the day. Since Jaws is into Salt-water aquarium, we went to shop around. Seriously, as a diver, I do not support sale of sea living creatures in any way. They belong to the open water. Not in your 4, 5 room, condo, semi-D's living room, sea anemones and fishes all cramped in a 2 feet tank. So what if you have a 10 or 20 feet tank, free for clownfishes to roam? I stress... they belong to the wild. Of course, my friend Jaws has a huge tank at home. But, still, no support here.

At 5pm, I was first to arrive at Alex's place for a mini-Sec School gathering. More of a discussion and DVD watching of video and photo shots taken on his wedding. I did part of the editing, along with Ngiam. I was early since we only agreed to meet at 7pm. When the crowd actually arrive, we had some food and watched the DVD. Wilson did his wonders by turning the whole party upside down with his "Eddie Murphy" laughters. Right after the movie, Ah.. .. EPL... I'm not really into soccer, but the rest of the guys are!! Tons of swearing and cursing from them:
NBCB - Ever so popular Hokkien little magic word
PDC - Not PrimaryDomainController, but Torn Underwear in Hokkien flavor
D or T - works either way, Cantonese version of the F word
No, it wasn't a real EPL. We made our own clash of Liverpool vs Man U. on XBox. Poor thing.... . I was referring to the wives of these hot blooded males, wildly tapping buttons away on XBox gamepads. These wives are just sitting there and chatting by themselves. Not exactly a soccer fan myself (though I'm a sports fan, I watch almost any sport), I usually chat with them. Oh. .. Wilson and Karen brought their little sweetheart (their daughter), and needless to say, all attention was on her while she was opening up her X'mas present. Well, this couple ended the night early because our little sweetheart is getting Z monster's sleepy eyes. For the rest of us, we did a "Royal Rumble" and a "Chicago vs 90's All Stars" match before we called it a night. We did a pretty quick sum up on our BBQ plans for 1st Jan 2005. Operation "EPL Vulgarities" ended at 2330hrs last night. .. We had our fair share of cursing at a 29" TV. Hence, Operation "EPL Vulgarities" was successful, if you ask me.

Celebrating the Christmas festive season at work, we only have to work half a day for today. People are doing gift exchange .. .. Surprising, I received a gift from AGB. End of the year. End of Year 2004 is here soon, which is just a week away. Usually, at this time of the year, I guess no one has any mood to work (holiday mood). So, just after 1pm, I met up with Beng and Kitty for lunch and immediately after that, I head straight for home. I was dead tired. Probably because I am still recovering from all the cough and flu that has been bugging me for days.

Games Games Games. I surfed Internet for a while, playing some games. It'll be a joke to tell people that I spent Christmas eve alone, playing computer games at home. Well, that's me. I never like to take other people's precious time, especially for times like this where they spend it with their love ones. My most sincere wishes to everyone out there! A Berry Merry X'mas. .. . . . Just an hour away.. Ho Ho Ho

I can't wait to meet my Sec School friends tomorrow night.

while date=23dec2004
{ *sniff*;
*snort* - running nose fluid back up;
*sneeze*;
*snort* - running nose fluid back up;
*sneeze*;
*sniff*;
}

I've been pre-programmed with this code during the entire day. Yes, I still have running nose. No, I did not try to inhale the fluid back into my nose. I used tissues. Eh.... well. .. . I probably just did the "Gravity defying act" for fluid dripping from my nose a couple of times. Ok. . . .. less than 20 times.

As scheduled today, a bunch of male colleagues are getting ready to speed of right after work for some munchies. Right after that would be a bowling session (something that I have not done, in ages). To make matter worse.. .. . Roland is also sick (going home), Willy needs beauty sleep (going home), MPEG needs godknowswat (definitely going home). So, who's left? The 3 musketeers ( alternatively you can call us the 3 stooges, because we are such clowns of the year) - Commando, HaHaHalim and Muggs (That's Me). We dropped the idea of bowling due to poor attendance and did some shopping instead. Shopping was Commando's idea. He got a pink Tshirt (how "colorful" can you get?) and a short sleeve shirt. Hahahalim purchased a long sleeve shirt. Me? Window shopping. Girls on a shopping trip? I've heard too many stories. 3 guys shopping together? First time. We took dinner and chatted. Jokes and some serious stuff. We had a great time.

Tomorrow is X'mas Eve. Half day for me. I'll be meeting Kitty and Beng for lunch. Following that, I'm meeting SpaceCadet for shopping a last minute X'mas gift (how thoughtful .. . last min). Let's see what I will be doing for X'mas count down.. .. . probably listening to some X'mas songs, let my imagination run wild on some fireplace with burning logs. I like Vonda Shepard. I still like her songs and those in Ally McBeal.

Today's my off day since I had to work on last Sunday. Guess what. I still get calls from my workplace...... I.T. = No Life. Okay. Anyway, I'll be going over to look at some backpacks and catch a movie with Conan at around 9.30pm. Since he has free tickets to watch Ocean 12, why not? BTW, I think he wants to have a look and feel session with my Railmaster. Although he has been talking about upgrading his Tag Heuer, he claims that he'll still give his Tag another couple of years before he "write off" the watch.

This morning, I had to work for the last saturday for Year 2004, because starting from next year, we will be having a 5-day work week for our company. It was pouring when I was on my way to Coco's place to see his baby little girl, Calista. I met up with Leslie and Christine at the subway before heading over. Coco's little girl is really cute. Well, this word cute only applies if the baby:
1) hasn't pee-ed in pants (pooped....is even worse),
2) isn't bringing down the whole estate with his/her cry,
3) the baby isn't yours.

Of course, at times, even if your kid can cry like a fire trunk siren or poop like Dumbo, you'll still love him/her simply because you are his/her parent.

I watched National Treasure at around 6.40pm and I didn't really liked the show. The only part about this whole movie that I loved were the riddles. Shucks..... I still need to work tomorrow, Sunday, due to a power migration at my workplace.

I saw a Fossil watch today. Most of the watches are more suitable for teenagers on the "trendy and wild" side. I was looking for something more.... .. . smart, dress looking. I found one. It has a silver colored, rectangular faced watch with a black strap. I like it a lot. Looks like this will take over the place of my Omega Railmaster before it arrives. :)